North Carolina
Industrial Commission

MEMORANDUM

TO:         All Interested Parties

FROM:   Chairman Buck Lattimore

DATE:    March 28, 2003

RE:         Wellington Leisure Products

            Wellington Leisure Products is a diversified manufacturer of consumer and commercial products for the cordage, narrow woven fabrics, home seasonal, and sporting goods markets. Wellington has filed a petition in bankruptcy in the United States Bankruptcy Court, Middle District, Georgia on February 3, 2003. The following is our current understanding of the situation.

            Wellington Leisure Produces was licensed to self-insure in the State of North Carolina. Effective April 1, 2003, Wellington will no longer pay its claims in North Carolina.

The North Carolina Self-Insurance Guaranty Association is liable for “covered” claims for the period of self-insurance of Wellington from May 1, 1994. All claims for Wellington should be directed to:

Ms. Cathrine R. Stuart
Stuart Law Firm, PLLC
4101 Lake Boone Trail
Raleigh, North Carolina 27607
(919) 787-6050, Fax: (919) 787-9988
E-mail: cstuart@stuartlawfirm.com

It appears that Wellington has a limited number of claims in North Carolina. Those claimants who are currently receiving benefits under the Workers’ Compensation Act should immediately contact Ms. Stuart. The North Carolina Self-Insurance Guaranty Association is in the process of securing Wellington’s claim files.

Questions or concerns regarding Wellington claims should be directed to: Stephen T. Gheen, Chief Deputy Commissioner, 919-807-2540 or gheen@ind.commerce.state.nc.us. Due to the volume of inquiries, email communication is requested if possible, though not required.

            The Industrial Commission website (www.comp.state.nc.us) will be updated as needed with additional information.