Archives June 2025

On Wednesday, June 25th—exactly one year after the fire that forever changed our lives—Mill employees came together to honor President Scott Cummings with a meaningful, handcrafted plaque.

Speaking on behalf of everyone, Supervisor Keith Wagner shared our deep appreciation for all Scott has done to keep as many of us working as possible during the aftermath. While many business leaders might have turned to outside contractors, Scott chose differently—he put his trust in us. He kept our team busy with the cleanup and rebuilding efforts, and the results speak for themselves. The mill looks better than ever.

In the process, we’ve not only restored what was lost but also made real improvements—upgrading equipment and enhancing operations. Now, one year later, we’re proud to say we’re nearly back to full capacity.

Pictured is the beautifully crafted plaque designed by Keith Wagner and Head Sawyer Angela Hall on behalf of all mill employees.

Thank you for everything, Scott. We’re proud to work under your leadership!

Be sure to watch the “CLC RISING FROM THE ASHES” video on YouTube.

One Year Later
On June 25, 2024, Cummings Lumber faced a devastating loss. A fire tore through the sawmill, destroying the north end of the building. Fourteen fire companies responded heroically to keep the blaze from spreading. But by morning, the full weight of the damage became heartbreakingly clear. A year later, the cause of the fire remains unknown. What is clear, however, is that despite losing part of a building that housed 95 years of history, the Cummings family remains firmly rooted. They’re not going anywhere.
For the family and employees, the loss was personal. The sawmill wasn’t just a workplace—it was where many spent their adult lives, where memories were built in every beam and board.
Small businesses like ours often face enormous hurdles when disaster strikes. Between payroll, taxes, and the sudden loss of revenue and inventory, being shuttered for a year can be financially devastating. But even in the face of adversity, we’ve fought to keep going—and now, we’re ready to fully resume production.
As with many hardships, this tragedy brought with it an unexpected gift: overwhelming community support. We were embraced by friends, neighbors, and colleagues with a level of generosity we’ll never forget. Still, some losses leave marks that time and money cannot heal. Yet our spirit remained unshaken. Instead of mourning what was gone, we chose to look ahead—boldly and with determination.
Now, thanks to everyone’s efforts, we’re ready to begin the next chapter in the story of Cummings Lumber.
By: Norm Steffy

Be sure to check out the Photo/Video slideshow on YouTube

so… GRAB A DRINK
AND START CHILLIN’
GET BAREFOOT
AND GET GRILLIN’
with
BAREFOOT & BBQ PELLETS – Perfect for your grill & smoker!

To find a dealer near you, please visit https://barefootpellet.com/dealer-locator/

#summer#bbq#pellets#barefoot#barefootpellet#barefootpellets#barefootbbqpellets#pelletgrill#pelletgrills#pelletsmoker#barefootandbbq#barefootandbbqpellets#realamericanhardwood

Be sure to pick up the June 2025 issue of Mountain Home Magazine for “The Forest and the Trees” cover story. “After a fire at Cummings Lumber, Scott had his millwork cut out for him.”

We’d like to sincerely thank Mountain Home Magazine for taking the time to cover our story. They did an incredible job.

Here’s a link to Mountain Home Magazine
https://www.mountainhomemag.com/2025/06/01/533092/mountain-home-june-2025

And a Link to view the June 2025 digital copy.
https://issuu.com/mountainhome/docs/mountain_home_june_2025