The BLADE, an internal quarterly newsletter publication for W.S. Connelly employees. If you have any submissions for the next edition please send to dani@wsconnelly.com
A W.S. CONNELLY & CO., INC. COMPANY NEWSLETTER THE BLADE
"HQ Heroes: Your Key Contacts at WSC" ⭐
Patrick W. Connelllly Chief Executive Officer patrick@wsconnelllly.com Kevin Connelllly President kevin@wsconnelllly.com Mark Hedstrom Chief Financiall Officer mhedstrom@wsconnelllly.com Brandon Funk Chief Commerciall Officer brandon@wsconnelllly.com David Snyder Chief Operations Officer david@wsconnelllly.com
FAMILY OF COMPANIES
Kylle Bicklling Executive Vice President of Business Devellopment kylle@wsconnelllly.com
April 1- April Fools Day April 20-Easter April 22-Earth Day May 11-Mother’s Day *May 26- Memorial Day (*this is a paid holiday for all WSC employees) June 15- Father’s Day June 19-Juneteenth
Regina Aulltman Human Resources Manager regina@wsconnelllly.com Willlliam Muse Controllller wmuse@wsconnelllly.com Syreeta Jones Accounts Receivablles Manager syreeta@wsconnnelllly.com Raquell Simmons-Prewitt Accounts Payablles Manager raquell@wsconnelllly.com
The Blade a W.S. Connelly Quarterly Newsletter
The W.S. Connelly Newsletter is a quarterly update bringing you the latest company news, events, and industry highlights! We love sharing stories from across our team and community. If you have news, photos, or anything exciting to share, we’d love to feature it in an upcoming issue! Send your submissions to: Dani Fink dani@wsconnelly.com
FOLLOW US!
Patrice Brooks Payrollll Administrator patrice@wsconnelllly.com Jennifer Zinn Office Administrator jennifer@wsconnelllly.com
Our “peeps” newest members of the wsc family
Brenden Behrens, Counter Sales Representative, Midlo Camryn Pagliaro, Sales Support Associate Corbin Charity Love, Accounts Receivables Specialist, Midlothian Clayton Bradley Hertel, Part Time Warehouse Associate-Tenbarge Elonda Banks, Accounts Payable Administrator, WSC Issa Moussa, Accounts Payable Administrator, WSC Jeania Ashby, Sales Support Administrator, Corbin Jeffrey Rice-District Sales Representative, LSI, Upper Marlboro
Jon Cole, CDL Driver, Roanoke Jorge Quinones, CDL Class A Driver,LSI Chantilly, Jose Vanegas, Chantilly, VA Mark Hedstrom, Chief Financial Officer, WSC Midlothian Mikala Lynch, Accounts Payable Administrator, WSC, Midlothian Patrice Brooks-Payroll Administrator, WSC Midlothian Quinton Young, Counter Sales Associate, Chantilly LSI Raquel Simmons-Prewitt, Accounts Payables Manager-WSC Midlo Sheila Pelkey-Accounting Manager, Corbin Turf Syreeta Jones, Accounts Receivables Manager, WSC Midlothian Tranquilino Gonzalez-Blending Warehouse Associate, CVS
Jennifer Zinn, Office Administrator, WSC Midlothian Joey Mullen, Counter Sales Representative, Roanoke Jon Cole, CDL Driver, Roanoke
of course, a huge WSC welcome to all our new AmeriTurf Team members!
When you know, we GROW! Ask about our employee referral bonus program Welcome to the Team – We’re Glad You Chose Us! You didn’t have to choose W.S. Connelly family of companies, but you did—and we couldn’t be more excited to have you on board! Please join us in welcoming all of our new hires, who have joined our team this quarter. Choosing a new workplace is a big decision, and we’re honored that you chose to grow your career with us. We believe we are the best in the business, and it’s because of our people. We can’t wait to see the impact you’ll make and look forward to supporting your success every step of the way. Welcome to the team, —we’re so glad you’re here! Exciting News from HR! We’re thrilled to announce the expansion of our Human Resources and Payroll Departments! Meet the Team: 👥 Regina Aultman – HR Manager-regina@wsconnelly.com 👥 Patrice Brooks – Payroll Administrator-patrice@wsconnelly.com To assist employees with any questions or concerns, we ask that all emails to be sent to the HR inbox at hr@wsconnelly.com . Your response time should be no later than 24 hours. What HR & Payroll Do for You Our HR and Payroll teams play a crucial role in keeping W.S. Connelly running smoothly. From hiring and onboarding new team members to managing benefits, policies, and employee support, HR is here to ensure a positive and productive workplace for everyone. The Payroll team works hard behind the scenes to make sure everyone is paid accurately and on time. They handle payroll processing, tax compliance, and employee records—so you can focus on what you do best. Have questions about benefits, policies, or payroll? Our newly expanded team is here to help!
Exciting S:drive update! If you need vector, .eps or .svg logos of any of our WSC companies, they’re on the S:drive. Have a vendor needing a vector or a jpeg logo? We made it easy for you. All on the S:Drive under WSC Logos 2025 S:\Company Logos\WSC Logos 2025.zip
THE BLADE-SPRING 2025 THE OGS!
Before there were company branches outside of Virginia, before there were multiple people in the each department, before hotel rooms were booked for individuals at meetings or events, before 3x5 Sticky Notes and G2 pens, there were shared hotel rooms, legal pads and Sharpie markers —and there were the “Company OGs. The foundation, the originals, the ones who built it from the ground up. Recent reunion between some familiar faces to the veterans of LSI and WSC-from left, Kip Connelly, Don Whitmire, Sandra Payne, Kyle Bickling and Joe Hammer. At “someplace” in Salem, Virginia. They didn’t have a roadmap—they made one. They knew that the small steps they were taking in those early days would eventually lead to something bigger than themselves. The long hours, the risk- taking, and the constant push to improve were the building blocks of what we’re now so proud to call Landscape Supply. They didn’t just build a company; they built the culture, the values, and the vision that guide us every single day. Their foundation? A commitment to innovation, collaboration, and never settling for “good enough.” #CompanyOGs #BuiltToLast #FromTheStart"
Tenbarge Seed held their Winter Education and Trade Shows in three cities over February 13, 14 and 15th. A great turnout of folks who came from many parts of Indiana, Kentucky and beyond.
The team from Environmental Construction Solutions (ECS) Environmental Construction Solutions wrapped up a great event last week at the IECA - International Erosion Control Association 2025 Annual Conference in Richmond Virginia. ECS Director Joe Belmonte spoke in a breakout session about E&S challenges on utility scale solar sites. The ECS team was honored with several awards from our long time vendor partners for continued growth and prowess in the industry, and introduced new products to long- time customers. Gordon Kretser-ESP (Engineered Specified Products) All Pro Team, WSC -Fast Lane ESP growth and Kyle Bickling won the Proganics Pro Award for 2025 -Congrats to these folks! Great Job. Kyle Bickling DeWayne King Duane Perry Chris Wilson Nick Belmonte Jason McMillan Tim Chandler Bob Windsheimer
THE BLADE-SPRING 2025
WSC Leadership Explores Company Roots in Virginia WSC CEO Patrick Connelly and newly appointed CFO Mark Hegstrom recently traveled across Virginia to visit several Landscape Supply branches. Their journey led them to Roanoke, known as "The Star City" and the birthplace of W.S. Connelly. While in Roanoke, Patrick and Kevin Connelly took Mark to the original warehouse that once housed Agnew and Connelly, the local feed store founded by their grandfather, Willard Stiff Connelly. Located in Roanoke at 301 Market Street SE, Agnew Seed Stores has deep roots in Virginia’s agricultural history. As the oldest existing seed house in the Commonwealth, Agnew had been operated by the same extended family since 1897. The historic building, believed to have been constructed before 1910, remains a landmark on the Roanoke City Market. This visit was a meaningful reminder of WSC’s long-standing commitment to quality and service, built on generations of expertise. If you’re ever in Roanoke, stop by where it all began. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to grow while honoring our legacy!
Honoring Conservation: CVS”s Jon Straughn Recognized by Quail Forever Jon recently received an award from Quail Forever, a testament to his dedication to conservation and habitat improvement. Quail Forever, alongside its partner organization Pheasants Forever, has made a lasting impact on wildlife, enhancing over 22 million acres of habitat to support upland bird populations and other species. Quail Forever’s mission focuses on habitat restoration, land stewardship, and engaging communities in conservation efforts. Their work ensures healthier ecosystems for future generations while promoting responsible land management practices. To learn more about Quail Forever’s initiatives and their ongoing conservation efforts, visit their website here. Congratulations, Jon and Gordon on this well-deserved recognition! Your commitment to wildlife and conservation continues to make a difference.
Welcoming Corbin Turf to the WSC Family We are excited to officially welcome Corbin Turf to the W.S. Connelly family! This acquisition strengthens our commitment to providing top-quality turf and landscape solutions while expanding our reach in the industry. In the photo in some new Corbin swag are, Rocky Dreibrodt (Division Director), Alan Corbin (Sales Manager), and Milling Blalock (Office Manager & Inside Sales) marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Their expertise and dedication to customer service have made Corbin Turf a trusted name, and we look forward to building on that legacy. In first photo, left to right: Rocky, Milling, Alan
Rolling Out from Tenbarge Seed’s NEW New Albany Warehouse! A truckload of top-quality turf products is on the move! This shipment is heading out from Tenbarge Seed’s new New Albany warehouse, ensuring our customers get the best seed, fertilizers, and turf solutions right when they need them. As we continue to grow, our expanded operations allow us to serve more turf professionals with efficiency and expertise.
THE BLADE-SPRING 2025
Tyler Popped the Question … and Taylor Said YES! 💍 🎉 Exciting news from our W.S. Connelly family — Tyler Pickels, our amazing AR Specialist, is engaged! This past November, Tyler proposed to his girlfriend of five years, Taylor Sanderson, and she said YES! ❤️ The happy couple is now busy planning their big day, which will take place in May 2026. We couldn’t be more thrilled for them and can’t wait to celebrate this exciting journey with them. Congratulations, Tyler and Taylor! Wishing you both a lifetime of Everyone, I have announcement! West End’s Andy Aubry Brings the Green for St. Patrick’s Day! ☘️ 🎉 Big things are happening at our West End LSI location, where Manager Andy Aubry and Steve Fritz are getting creative with marketing and community engagement! Andy has been working on some exciting local radio ads with Jeff Wicker of Lite98, spreading the word about Landscape Supply and keeping us top of mind for customers. But that’s not all—Andy and Steve are making sure we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in style! To spread the festive spirit, Andy organized a St. Paddy’s swag giveaway, featuring WSC-branded green Solo cups—perfect for raising a toast to good turf and great company! 🍀 🥤 If you're in the area, be sure Cheers to Andy for keeping things fun, fresh, and full of Irish spirit! ☘️ 🎶 #WSCGoesGreen #CheersToGreatTurf #useresponsibly love, laughter, and happiness! 🎊 💙 #SheSaidYes #FutureMrAndMrsPickels
Brad Dawson Represents WSC at Elkhart County Pay Dirt Event
Our very own Brad Dawson, ECS, recently attended the Elkhart County Pay Dirt event in Indiana, connecting with industry professionals and staying up to date on the latest in soil health, erosion control, and land management. Pay Dirt is a premier event that brings together contractors, suppliers, and experts in the excavation and soil industries. It’s a hands-on opportunity to explore innovative products, best practices, and cutting-edge solutions for everything from site preparation to environmental sustainability. Great job, Brad! #WSCInTheField #PayDirt2024
THE BLADE-SPRING 2025
Winter Sales Kickoff: Dodging Snowstorms & Gearing Up for Success After a snowy February forced a reschedule, Landscape Supply and Environmental Construction Solutions successfully held their Winter Sales Kickoff Meeting—this time, dodging another storm! The event, held in Midlothian, VA, at the Four Points Sheraton, brought together sales teams, company leaders, and supply partners to prepare for the year ahead. Despite the challenges, the meeting was a success, with supply partners presenting valuable insights virtually, ensuring the team stayed informed on the latest products and industry developments. WSC company speakers, including Eric Snelsire, Gordon Kretser, and Joe Belmonte, shared updates on industry trends, new technology, and innovations designed to help the sales team work more efficiently and effectively. The kickoff wasn’t just about business—attendees also enjoyed a Monday night dinner at The Hard Shell, joined by members of our Accounting Team, making it a great opportunity to connect and celebrate our shared goals for 2024. A big thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event a success! Here’s to a strong year ahead! 🚜 📈 #WSCWinterKickoff #SalesSuccess
Hayden Snelsire Shines in MLB Spring Training Debut
March Madness at WSC: A Tradition of Competition & Camaraderie 🏀 At W.S. Connelly, March Madness isn’t just a basketball tournament— it’s a long-standing tradition that brings employees and customers together for some friendly competition, great prizes, and, of course, bragging rights! We bring you “HydraMadness” by Kevin Connelly. Each year, we kick off the tournament with bracket challenges, where participants make their picks and battle it out for the top spots. Whether you’re a seasoned college basketball fan or just in it for the fun, everyone has a chance to win big. With prizes on the line and the thrill of upsets and buzzer-beaters, the competition is fierce—but it’s all in the spirit of team-building and good times. More than just the brackets, March Madness or “HydraMadness” at WSC is about bringing people together—employees, customers, and partners—creating an atmosphere of excitement and camaraderie. From office trash talk to last-second victories, this tradition is one we look forward to every year! Who will have the winning bracket for 2025? ROAD TO THE FINAL FOUR- Duke, Florida, Houston, Auburn. Kevin loves March Madness, and the road to victory starts now! 🏆🏀
A special moment unfolded in Port Charlotte, FL as Hayden Snelsire made his MLB Spring Training debut, taking the mound for the Tampa Bay Rays in the 8th inning against the Phillies. The young pitcher showcased his talent, striking out two batters in a strong performance. It was an unforgettable experience, made even better by having Dad, Eric (WSC ) and Mom, Jocelyn there to witness it firsthand. Watching Hayden compete at this level is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Here’s to many more great moments ahead in his baseball journey! #MLBDebut#SpringTraining#HaydenSnelsire
Baseball Basketball Blossom Breezy Budding Butterfly Caterpillar Chirping Control Daffodil Dewdrop Easter Emergent Equinox Fertilizer Gardening Grass Greenery Hatch Madness March Meadow Nest Picnic Pollinate Pre Puddle Rainbow Rainshowers Rebirth Renewal Seed
Sports Sprout Sunshine Tulip Weed
Pre and Emergent got separated-they are 2 words on the puzzle
Complete the word search and send with your name and division/branch to Dani Fink at dani@wsconnelly.com BUT------you gotta include the address for the Agnew and Connelly building (number and street)
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