Excerpt From Internal Communication to Wilbur-Ellis Employees and Subsidiaries

January 6, 2005

The following is an excerpt from an internal communication to the Employees of Wilbur-Ellis Company and subsidiaries on January 6, 2005 by President & CEO Herbert B. Tully.

To All Wilbur-Ellis Company and Connell Bros. Company Employees:

The earthquake in Sumatra on December 26 and resulting tsunami that ravaged coastal countries in Southeast Asia and regions bordering the Indian Ocean is truly one of the most horrific natural disasters of our time. Fortunately, none of the employees in our Asian offices were personally injured in these tragic events; however, there are many stories of relatives and close friends who were directly impacted.

As you may know Wilbur-Ellis Company and its subsidiary, Connell Bros. Company has conducted business in these regions for many years. I am writing to tell you about what we have done in response to this disaster and to provide information on how you can participate in the relief efforts.

On December 27, the Company authorized four of our offices in Asia to make local contributions to disaster relief efforts totaling $100,000. Country managers in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and India - the countries most impacted by the disaster - responded immediately and put much-needed money directly in the hands of relief agencies. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide support to the areas of greatest need. As of today I anticipate that the total amount contributed by the Company will eventually exceed $500,000.

Many organizations are continuing to raise funds to support the relief effort. If you want to participate personally in the relief program, Wilbur-Ellis Company and Connell Bros. Company will support you by matching your contribution to the American Red Cross International Response Fund. The Company has committed $100,000 for this matching program. In the near future a special Wilcon Trader issue will provide you with news directly from our offices in the region as well as additional information about action taken by the Company in support of the relief effort.