2009 lifeliner magazine (issue 2)

I N S I D E :Iowa GOP: Standing

Up For Those Who Keep Iowa Working

Trucking and the New Administration

A Long-Time Coming, CSA 2010

Now Being Tested

Carrier Spotlight:Reppert Rigging

& Hauling

Summer 2009

Lifeliner

IOWA MOTOR TRUCK ASSOCIATION

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Summer 2009 3Lifeliner

In this Issue

20ArticlesChairman’s Message ............................5

President’s Message ..............................7

IMTA Truck Show ...................................8

Legislative Update .................................9

Legal Update .................................10-11

CSA 2010 ..........................................12

Insurance ...........................................13

Carrier Spotlight ............................15-17

Truck PAC Iowa Spring Golf Outing 18-19

Feature Article ...............................20-23

Labor Department ...............................24

The Economy ......................................25

Renewable Fuels .................................27

Business Environment ..........................28

Education ...........................................29

Your Association ............................30-31

Your Association in Action ...............33-35

The Final Word ...................................38

IMTA StaffBrenda Neville, CAEPresident

Don EgliDirector of Safety and Security

Amanda MadisonAdministrative Assistant

DeAnn MoodyExecutive Assistant

Holly MueggenbergCommunications & Education Manager

Mike SpallaMembership Manager

Our SupportersMidwest Wheel Companies ........... 2Great West Casualty ..................... 4Interstate Power Systems ................ 6Iowa Speedway .......................... 11Central Trailer Service ................. 14Medix Occupational Health ......... 14Zip’s Truck Equipment ................. 17Northland Insurance ................... 26Iowa Soybean Association ........... 26

Hanifen...................................... 30Quality Services Corp ................. 31Heuss Printing ............................ 31JJ Keller & Associates .................. 32MidStates Utility Trailer Sales ....... 36Ziegler ....................................... 37Advance Online ......................... 37Vatterott College ......................... 39Midwest Wheel Companies ......... 40

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Chairman’s MessageMark Zieman, Cherry Valley Enterprise, Inc.

Keeping Up The Good FightAfter a 48 hour marathon the 2009 legislative session finally adjourned. I can’t determine if it is because I am a former State Senator or if it is just because some of the good people of Iowa have finally determined that it is time to speak up but I have heard more comments about the irresponsibility of our lawmakers in those final hours of the session over the last several weeks than I ever anticipated.

As the old saying goes, “anything that happens after midnight is never good” and that probably could apply in this case as well. Accusations continue to surface about all the late night, last minute bills that were passed in the wee hours of the morning. But the bottom line is that nobody can function well in a sleep deprived, caffeine induced

environment and I continue to urge everyone to contact their legislators and share their thoughts and opinions. I can’t guarantee that they will remember the complaints next year as the session draws to a close but they certainly won’t even think about any change unless they hear from constituents.

And speaking of calling legislators, IMTA members need to be congratulated and recognized for the tremendous efforts that were implemented by IMTA members on numerous occasions during this past session. On several different issues, IMTA members were asked to make calls to lawmakers and every time, the membership responded and made a powerful difference in the outcome. Because of those efforts, a number of damaging bills were defeated. Iowa business was certainly challenged on several occasions throughout the session, but when adjournment finally

arrived, business owners in Iowa were able to declare a victory. For the second year in a row we were able to preserve Iowa’s business environment and that is quite a feat when you consider the Democrats control both houses and the Governor’s office.

However, our work is far from over because we will face some of these same challenges plus additional challenges in the 2010 session. That is why IMTA will continue to be working on strengthening its legislative program throughout the summer. IMTA will continue to meet with lawmakers and ask for support for a pro-business environment. IMTA will also be spending a great deal of time raising money for its political action committee

and also organizing even greater support

through the continued development of a

significant grassroots network among the

membership. Even though the session is over, our work will continue and we hope that you will continue to support that work as well.

I know times are tough in the trucking industry right now, but we cannot afford to let up even slightly on our legislative work. Can you imagine how much tougher running your business would be if choice of doctor legislation passed or mandated health benefits were expanded or a biodiesel mandate was passed. All of these proposals would have taken money away from your bottom line so now more than ever, we must continue to be aggressive, engaged and active in our legislative efforts. I know that IMTA members understand the importance of a relentless fight and encourage you all to join in on this fight, your involvement really does make a difference!

I know times are tough in the trucking industry right now, but we cannot afford to let up even slightly on our legislative work.



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President’s MessageBrenda Neville, Iowa Motor Truck Association

State of the IndustryIn my position, I get the pleasure of talking to a lot of members on a daily basis. In these discussions, I am always interested in getting feedback as to the state of the industry and as this magazine reflects, the news is not real positive at the present time. For the last year, the trucking industry has been beat up on all fronts and while I have to believe that there is some relief in sight, like many of you, I fear that relief will be very slow in coming. For some of our members it may be too little, too late and for others, each day in the office continues to offer a lot of stress and frustration as everyone is scrambling for the same few loads that exist at record low rates. If I had a dollar for every time I have heard the comment “it isn’t fun anymore to be in the trucking business” the association would more than likely be able to report a surplus. But despite, the constant barrage of “negative” news, each conversation always ends on a positive note as once again IMTA members demonstrate their amazing sense of perseverance, resiliency and shear courage in operating in today’s less than stable economy. It is because of this entrepreneurial leadership that I can’t imagine working for anyone other than Iowa’s trucking industry. In all my conversations with owners, they have had to develop alternative strategies to deal with the current situation and they continue to have faith in the future. These same owners also always seem to make time for their association and continue to stay engaged at all levels. One very bright spot to these dark days is that the level of engagement from IMTA members is quite frankly, at an all time high. We had a record number of people respond to calls of action during the legislative session. And the number of members requesting our services is on the rise. Attendance at various outreach events and activities is also strong and in some cases higher than in previous

years. We continue to hold our own when it comes to our dues revenue from month to month and we are touched by the number of members that are actively serving in a volunteer capacity for our numerous events. While some will jokingly tell me that IMTA involvement serves as a good distraction in these hard times, I know that their dedication and commitment runs deep because it is demonstrated in their genuine involvement.

I certainly wish that IMTA could offer solutions to every issue impacting a trucking company today but unfortunately that isn’t the case. Instead, however, I can tell you that your association is working each and every day on your behalf. We continue to push a legislative agenda on both the state and national level that supports business. We diligently guard against an “over regulated” environment and maintain a positive working relationship with all the agencies that are involved in trucking oversight. We continue to develop meaningful events that reach out to all the different segments of the membership and offer not only valuable information but important peer networking. We strive to be your voice in numerous arenas that potentially threaten your ability to make a living and most importantly, we continue to listen to your concerns, your ideas and your feedback and structure policies and procedures that truly benefit Iowa’s trucking industry. Your association has been around since 1942 and our goal is to be a bright spot on the horizon for another 66 years. Your association must be nimble and fluid. While the recovery will be slow, your association is here to serve and support you in every way possible through both the good and bad times. Now, more

than ever, we invite you to take full advantage of your membership benefits and to allow us the opportunity to serve you and assist you in any way possible. We thank you for your continued support and we look forward to hearing from you and working with you in the future. There are brighter days ahead.


In all my conversations with owners, they continue to develop alternative strategies to deal with the current situation and they continue to have faith in the future.


Legislative UpdateMatt Strawn is a businessman from Ankeny, Iowa and since January 2009 serves as Chairman of the Republican Party of Iowa.

Iowa GOP: Standing up for those who keep Iowa working

Make no mistake about it, the recently-ended 2009 Iowa General Assembly legislative session will go down in history as one of the most hostile to job-creators and small business owners in recent history.

From attempts to repeal Iowa’s right-to-work status to mandated wages and benefits to a nearly half a billion dollar tax increase, Governor Chet Culver and majority Democrats had Iowa’s job creators in their crosshairs from the opening gavel in January to a final early morning party-line vote in April to approve the largest budget in Iowa’s 163-year history.

As the new chairman of the Republican Party of Iowa, I, along with the new GOP leadership in the House and Senate decided it was time for Republican officials to go on offense, to show the voters and Iowa employers that there is a clear distinction between a party that believes entrepreneurs and private employers create jobs and a majority party in Des Moines that believes only new state spending creates jobs.

My upbringing on my family’s Benton County farm and my current ownership of a small business provide me with a few simple truths when it comes to how

we improve Iowa’s economy. First and foremost, it is the individual who risks his own capital to start a business that hires hard-working Iowans. Second, we also

know that every time the government adds another license or fee, it costs time and money. Money that could be used to expand, upgrade equipment, or hire additional employees. In the end, these added costs are both eaten by the company and passed along to clients, customers and consumers.

Standing up for those employees and employers who keep Iowa working is a fundamental principle of Iowa’s Republican Party and our elected

leaders. It was Republicans in Des Moines that stood in unified opposition to Governor Culver’s organized labor agenda that included repeal of right to work, prevailing wage mandates on public projects, and undoing common-sense workers comp policy that has served Iowa well for over 90 years. It was Republicans at the Capitol that again stood in unified opposition to the Governor’s plan to eliminate federal deductibility on Iowa income taxes that would have raised taxes over $400 million on the very Iowans who create the jobs needed to grow our state’s economy.

Simply put, it is time for a real and honest debate on job creation in Iowa. Governor Culver has talked a lot over the past few months about how he is going to create new jobs in Iowa; but, spending big state money through debt financing on short-term construction projects does not create lasting, sustainable jobs. Entrepreneurs and private industry are the ones who generate economic growth for generations and that is a debate that Republicans are prepared to take into the 2010 legislative session and election.

The good news looking ahead is that Iowans see the need for leaders

who value small businesses. The Republican Party of Iowa is renewed and stocked with leaders not only ready to reclaim our Governor’s Mansion and a legislative majority, but leaders who understand that business, not bureaucracy, keeps Iowa working and moving forward.

To join the Republican renewal, go to www.iowagop.org to get involved or follow our updates at www.twitter.com/iowagop.

*Please Note: IMTA invited leaders from the Democrat Party to submit an article as well and they declined.

“It is time for a real and honest debate on job creation in Iowa.”

Matt StrawnRepublican Party Chairman


Legal UpdateGreg Feary is the Managing Partner of Scopelitis, Garvin, Light, Hanson & Feary, P.C.’s 7 national offices. The firm is widely considered to be the preeminent full service transportation law firm in the nation. Mr. Feary has over 20 years of legal experience dedicated exclusively to transportation legal issues ranging from owner-operator concerns to legislative support services. Greg also leads the firm’s insurance regulatory and risk management section and has helped many motor carriers and specialty transportation insurance service providers navigate complex legal issues such as captive insurance arrangements.

Trucking and the New AdministrationThe new Administration has completed its first 100 days and now turns its attention to

the remainder of the Congressional session. Regardless of political persuasion, the optimist in each of us hopes President-elect Barack Obama’s administration heralds an uplifting and more positive era of government.

One can point to several initiatives that should help the country — and possibly the trucking industry — over the next four years. However, new initiatives often are mixed blessings.

For example, Obama’s focus on the highway system will certainly, over time, create a more efficient means by which to transport freight. In the short term, however, construction projects could create road congestion, draw qualified workers away from trucking and create a preference for rail transportation.

Yet, if this shift occurs, it could be to the intermodal segment’s benefit, and such construction projects may invigorate flatbed trucking, aggregate/bulk/dump hauling and other special hauling segments of the trucking industry.

Similarly, emphasis on alternative fuel sources, while costly to our industry, over time quite likely will reinvigorate the auto industry in the United States and abroad and also may re-energize other segments of the trucking industry.

We need to pause and contemplate the business environment in which trucking will operate over the next four years and the host of specific legislative initiatives we need to address, making trucking’s collective voice heard in Washington.

Labor and employment issues will loom particularly large for trucking under the new administration, and in many instances our new president has already made his views known.

For example, in 2007, then-Sen. Obama sponsored the Independent Contractor Proper Classification Act of 2007 (S. 2044), which would re-empower the Internal Revenue Service to assess taxes, penalties and interest against “employers” who have misclassified employees as independent contractors. At the same time, the bill would remove important aspects of a safe harbor for employers.

In 2008, Obama co-sponsored a similar bill, the Employee Misclassification Prevention Act (S. 3648), which would place business owners in peril of substantial taxes and penalties for using independent contractors in circumstances under which it is less than crystal clear such contractors are not employees.

Similarly, in November 2007 Obama wrote to the mayors of Los Angeles and Long Beach, Calif., supporting their Ports’ Clean-Air Action plan and noting, “Many of these truckers may be legally misclassified. Worker misclassification is an issue I have worked on at the federal level to remedy because it hurts workers and costs the taxpayer billions in uncollected taxes.”

The president-elect also co-sponsored a previous version of the Employee Free Choice Act (S. 1041)(“EFCA”), which would eliminate the “secret-ballot election” on union representation. The EFCA has been reintroduced in Congress this session (H. 1409, S. 560), and, although it appears it will not pass in its current form, some elements of the EFCA are likely to survive and may significantly change labor organization in the country.

Another bill, the Ledbetter Fair Pay Act (S. 181, Pub.Law 111-2), reverses a recent Supreme Court decision and significantly extends the period in which an employee may claim discrimination.

The RESPECT Act — Re-Empowerment of Skilled and Professional Employees and Construction Tradeworkers — would

amend the National Labor Relations Act to redefine and limit who can be considered a “supervisor.” If passed, that act (H.R. 1644, S. 969) essentially would create additional employees who could be organized.

Still on the horizon are the Civil Rights Act of 2008 and the Employment Non-Discrimination Act. These bills share the noble purpose of attacking discriminatory practices by employers — but also broaden the concept of discrimination, creating greater uncertainty for business executives and potentially larger penalties for those making business decisions.

Gregory Feary,Managing Partner, Scopelitis, Garvin, Light, Hanson & Freary, P.C.

While we indeed face challenges brought about by a new administration, trucking has proved amazingly adaptive to a vast system of rules, regulations and laws.


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This message is not intended as a bleak prediction of a downward spiral for trucking, but rather a forecast of the substantial challenges we face.

In response, we must return to “Civics 101” and get involved or even more involved in the democratic system upon which this country was founded.

The record turnout of voters in the presidential election shows that, for a moment in time, many Americans were roused from apathy to cast a vote for change. Many of those same voters will fall back into passivity, believing positive change is now being handled by the Obama administration.

In reality, substantial change was inevitable regardless of who won the election, and it is incumbent upon each American to ensure that positive change in government occurs on a daily basis through vigilance, hard work and heavy lifting by civic-minded individuals

— including those working in the trucking industry.

As trucking embarks on positive change, it is fortunate to be supported by a host of important industry organizations with proven ability, beginning with the Iowa Motor Truck Association and its affiliate, the American Trucking Associations. Trucking also is well-represented by the Truckload Carriers Association, the American Moving and Storage Association, the Truck Renting and Leasing Association, and many other groups representing specialty segments of transportation.

While we indeed face challenges brought about by a new administration, trucking has proved amazingly adaptive to a vast system of rules, regulations and laws. Those in trucking are typically not Americans who awoke for a moment to cast a vote just for the sake of change. But, it is now vital that we stay involved and continue the hard work required

to ensure our country and our industry secure the much needed positive change achievable over the next four years.

Scopelitis, Garvin, Light, Hanson & Feary is a transportation law firm with offices in Indianapolis, Chicago, Los Angeles, Chattanooga, Kansas City, Detroit and Washington, D.C. The author is based in Indianapolis.

Legal Update


Comprehensive safety analysis 2010 (CSA 2010) is a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) initiative to improve large truck and bus safety and ultimately reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities. Implementation is expected to begin in summer 2010.

www.fmcsa.dot.gov/csa2010 Â

what you need to know

shirley mcGuire, Division administratorFederal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Iowa Division105 6th Street, Ames, IA 50010-6337Phone: (515) 233-7400

> > Coming summer 2010

iowa ContaCt |

U.S. Department of TransportationFederal Motor Carrier Safety Administration


InsuranceJason Smith specializes exclusively in developing risk management and insurance programs for the transportation industry for TrueNorth®, www.truenorthcompanies.com, an insurance firm that develops customized programs for transportation companies with asset based and non-asset based capacity models. Jason graduated from the University of Iowa with a business degree specializing in Management and Marketing. He is actively involved in the Trucking Industry Defense Association, Truckload Carriers Association and Iowa Motor Truck Association in addition he serves on TrueNorth’s Board of Directors. He may be contacted at [email protected].

A Long-Time Coming, CSA 2010 Now Being TestedThe Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is expected to implement the Comprehensive Safety Analysis (CSA) nationwide as early as July 2010. Already, it is being tested in Colorado, Georgia, New Jersey, Missouri, Minnesota, Montana and Oregon. While the new safety initiative was launched in 2004, most transportation companies and individual drivers still know little about it. One thing is for certain however, it will dramatically impact the transportation industry.

The goal of CSA 2010 is to improve national commercial motor vehicle compliance, driver behavior and company safety programs leading to increased safety on America’s highways. While the regulations governing our industry won’t change as a result of CSA 2010, how FMCSA measures highway safety, a company’s safety preparation and readiness and individual drivers will. Currently, FMCSA is able to reach less than 2% of the more than 725,000 motor carriers in the U.S. The CSA 2010 initiative and the technology tools that come with it will enable FMCSA to reach more carriers and drivers to identify and prioritize safety problems earlier.

Under CSA 2010, two Safety Measurement Systems (SMS) will be used: the Carrier Safety Measurement System and the Driver Safety Measurement System. SMS will replace SafeStat. Instead of the driver, vehicle, safety

management and accident evaluation areas, (SEAs), both new systems measure seven Behavioral Analysis Safety and Improvement Categories (BASICs):

• Unsafe driving

• Fatigued driving

• Driver fitness

• Crash history

• Vehicle maintenance

• Improper loading/ cargo securement

• Controlled substances

In the new SMS, both motor carriers and individual drivers receive a score. Each violation is weighted based on the level of risk identified by that particular violation. This uniformity will allow the FMCSA to intervene more frequently with fewer resources to prioritize carriers for intervention and support the safety investigators’ decision on the best intervention.

Prior to CSA 2010, driver wrong-doings were points that went against the motor carrier. Under the new system, individual driver scores will directly impact the individual and their ability to be hired, get insurance, get and keep a Commercial Drivers License. If the score

is low enough, a driver could be deemed “unfit” and suspended due to violations.

What should you be doing today to prepare? Again, the regulations governing our industry won’t change with CSA 2010. It is how you are measured that will be dramatically different. The FMCSA will take a much more stringent look at drivers under the new system and when a violation occurs, there will be a much heavier price tag to pay.

To make sure you are ready, you should first get as much information as you can on the subject. TrueNorth® holds a free webinar series to share details as new information becomes available and hundreds of motor carriers across the country are now participating. You should also review your safety program and talk with your drivers about the impending changes and what they need to do to drive safe now and in the future.

Jason SmithTrueNorth

The CSA 2010 initiative and the technology

tools that come with it will enable FMCSA

to reach more carriers and drivers to identify

and prioritize safety problems earlier.


Carrier Spotlight


ReppertRigging & HaulingLong-standing Success through Cutting Edge TechnologyReppert Rigging and Hauling may not have started out as the Dickinson family business, but it certainly is today. When calling to discuss this company’s services and history I spoke with three generations of Dickinson’s who all have more than just their hands in this multi-faceted organization.

Reppert is but one part of the overall family business which is now located in Altoona. The family businesses provide a host of services including public warehousing Rail-to-Truck and

Truck-to-Rail transportation, and document management serving the paper, lumber, manufacturing, agriculture, and wind industries as well as the banking and insurance industries just to name a few. The rigging and hauling arm of the company was started more than half a century ago.

“The company was originally founded in the 1920’s by Howard C. Reppert,” explains Darrell “Barney” Dickinson, owner and Chairman of the Board. “At

the time its main focus was on the moving and storing of household goods, as well as a small division that served as a wrecker service.”

The Dickinson family would not become involved with this portion of the business until the 1970’s, when in 1971, the company Barney worked for was sold to Mid American

Lines of Kansas City. Shortly thereafter, in 1974 two pioneers of the transfer and storage business in Iowa merged, Merchants Transfer and Storage and White Line Transfer and Storage. It was after these organizations came together that Barney became company leader across each of its facets.

“I became VP of White Line, Merchants and Reppert shortly thereafter,” recalls Barney. Then in 1977 he, along with his wife Merlene, purchased the business., “That’s when we got involved, at least debt wise. I guess the bank bought it, we worked it.”

At that time, the Reppert Rigging and Hauling division had two wreckers, two straight trucks and two forklift trucks. Today, Jeff Dickinson, vice president at Reppert reports they operate 15 forklifts, with capacity’s ranging from 3,000 pounds to more than 100,000 pounds with rigging booms, trailering capacity to 100 ton, a 50 ton twinlift, 50 ton

mobilift, which are forklift style cranes, jacking system – lifting 500 ton up to 26 feet, 10 power units 5 rollback tilt bed straight trucks and trailers, conestoga trailers, vans and multi-axle trailers

“A great deal of our business stems from our installation abilities and services,” says Jeff. “Today Reppert is extensively involved in a number

of manufacturing plants throughout Iowa in various industries, including heating and cooling companies, utility companies and stamping companies.”

The path they took to this expansion of clients and service was spearheaded by Jeff and Barney Dickinson. “I was just a young kid with some big ideas at the time,”

says Jeff. “I sort of had the mentality – if you build it they will come.”

“I started with the type of work that was available through our current projects and assessed what equipment we would need to help our clients do more,” said Jeff. With this perspective, The Dickinson family invested in larger trailers, bigger, better cranes and specialized equipment built for the rigging industry. If the technology didn’t exist yet, they took their needs and ideas to the manufacturer.

“We needed equipment that was small in size but big in capacity,” Jeff recalls. Through this outreach we were able to offer our clients services previously unavailable. “Ever since then we try to consistently stay on top of new technological advances available in our industry.”

Jeff, Greg, Eric, Merlene and Barney Dickinson

“A great deal of our business stems from our installation abilities and services” Jeff Dickinson


Providing their clients with the newest technology available coupled with quality hard work seems to be the back bone of their organization. “Our success has always been dictated by how happy our clients are,” says Barney. “Ninety percent of our business is from word of mouth, so our actions serve as well or better than any pitch we have to offer.”

All of the Dickinson’s are quick to point to their employees as the key to their work quality. While some of the employees have been with the company for less than three years, others have been with them for more than 15. “Each of them,” Merlene says, “is a miracle worker.”

That hard-work approach has proven to be a sound model for the company and the family. Today there are three generations of Dickinson’s working at the firm. Jeff’s 2 of 3 children have recently started to take part in the family business. He has one daughter and one son who are both taking on part-time responsibilities.

Another long-standing staple at Merchants Distribution Service/Reppert Rigging and Hauling have been the companies continued involvement with the Iowa Motor Truck Association. Barney previously served on the board of directors and Jeff is currently active on the board.

Barney, who has been a part of the trucking industry since 1947, says he understands how important it is to take part in your business community. “When you are involved with an industry, you have to be involved with all of the industry,” said Barney. “The IMTA is the best path to all facets of the industry. The association provides us a multitude of services like legislative representation, directional guidance, and conflict resolution that are all extremely helpful to this industry and to us.”

Darrell Ray “Barney” Dickinson

Carrier Spotlight

Reppert Rigging & Hauling was originally founded in the 1920‘s

by Howard C. Reppert

The Iowa Motor Truck Association regrets to report that one of its long-standing and esteemed members passed away this spring. Darrell Ray “Barney” Dickinson, of Urbandale, IA, passed on Monday, May 25, 2009. It is a bittersweet honor to note that early this year we wanted to profile his organization – Merchants Distribution Service, Reppert Rigging and Hauling, and MDS Records Management – in our quarterly company profile. It was an honor for this organization to have had the opportunity to speak with Barney on what seemed to be two of his favorite subjects: his work and his family.

Barney was owner and chairman of the board of Merchants Distribution Service, Reppert Rigging and Hauling, and MDS Records Management. Today, there are three generations of Dickinson’s working at the company. During his long career he served on the Boards of Directors of the American Warehouse Association, the Iowa Motor Truck Association and the Mid-America Warehouse Association, where he served as president for a term. He was also past president of the Iowa Movers & Warehouse Association.

In addition to his professional commitments Barney was a tireless and active member of his community. He served a term on the Board of Directors of the Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, as well as two 3-year terms on the Urbandale School Board, two years as president. Barney was also a long-time member of the Rotary Club of Des Moines, American Legion Post 663, and a 50-year member of South Gate Masonic Lodge. He attended Covenant Christian Church in Urbandale, where memorial contributions are being taken.

The Iowa-native was born at home on February 20, 1927, to Alva Ray and Doris Lenore (Taylor) Dickinson in New Virginia, IA. He was a WW II veteran and served in General McArthur’s Headquarters in both Manila and Tokyo. He met Merlene, his wife and later business partner, while they were students at AIB. They were married September 7, 1947.

Barney is survived by his wife, Merlene Elaine (Cadwell); three sons and nine grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by all of them as well as his many friends and associates through the Iowa Motor Truck Association.


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All of the Dickinson’s are quick to point to their employees as the key to their work quality.

IMTA Summer Intern IMTA is pleased to introduce Heather McCasland to the membership. Heather is participating in IMTA’s summer internship program. As a participant in the internship program, Heather is able to gain valuable experience in a real world atmosphere.

Heather is specifically working on learning more about marketing and communications and is assisting in that capacity for several different upcoming IMTA events and activities. Heather is confident that

the internship will help her improve her social skills as well as give her added confidence in the business world.

Heather just completed her Freshmen year at Central College in Pella and is majoring in biology with an added emphasis in business and marketing. She is hopeful that her degree will enable her to pursue a career in pharmaceutical sales.

“Heather has been a great fit and has quickly become a valuable asset to our marketing efforts. We are pleased to have her with us this summer and look forward to having the members meet her at upcoming events,” said IMTA President Brenda Neville.

IMTA offers a number of different internship programs throughout the year. For the past several years, IMTA has had a waiting list of folks that are interested in gaining some valuable experience in the real world.

Heather McCaslandIMTA Summer Intern


Truck PAC Iowa Spring Golf Outing

Championship Flight - 3rd Place - Tim Annett, Worldwide Logistics, Chris Olson, CTA, Inc., Lee Hook, Peddicord Wharton, Tim Kovacevich, Bridgestone Bandag Tire Solutions

Championship Flight - 2nd Place - Reggie Crumes, Iowa Cold Storage, Karol Crumes, Iowa Cold Storage, Jamey Franzen, Iowa Cold Storage, Brooks Reynolds, Reynolds & Reynolds

First Flight - 1st Place - Randy Frisk, Central Trailer Service, Pat Mechem, Ryder, Clark Bannister, Central Trailer Service, Dean Blackwell, Penske

First Flight - 2nd Place - Steve Koch, Solar Transport, Brett Lippold, Truck Country, Jeff Moe, Solar Transport, Jeff Baedke, Truck Country

First Flight - 3rd Place - Jeff Petersen, Peterbilt of Sioux City, Jeff Arens, Schuster Co., Steve Schuster, Schuster Co., Dave Van Wyk, Van Wyk Trucking


Over $18,000 Raised for Truck PACFolks once again stepped up and made the 2009 Truck PAC Iowa Spring Golf Outing one of the most successful in many years. With 143 golfers participating the 2009 event was very effective in raising some serious cash for the trucking industry’s political action committee. “Given the current economy, now more than ever, we need to invest in the lawmakers that make business a top priority. Through our PAC we

are able to do just that and intend to be even more aggressive in our fundraising efforts because we don’t have a choice at this point,” said IMTA Chairman of the Board, Mark Zieman.

Bob Kohlwes, BTI Special Commodities and Brenda Neville, IMTA worked the officers competition and had 100% participation!

Championship Flight - 1st Place - Mike Bagg, Central Trailer Service, Dave

Nelsen, Freightliner of Des Moines, Jeff Miller, Beaver Creek Golf Course, Tom

Trusty, BTI Special Commodities

ChampionshipFlight

ChampionshipFlightChampionshipFlight

FirstFlightFirstFlightFirstFlight


Putting Contest Winners - (L-R) Reggie Crumes - 3rd Place, Mark Hanson - 1st Place, Lonnie Crownover - 2nd Place

Hole In One - Dave Nelsen

Second Flight - 1st Place - Bob Manning, Manning Ag Service, Lee Moran, Highway Mail Company, Matt Schryver, Green Products Company, Mike Sullivan, Kenworth Mid-Iowa

Second Flight - 2nd Place - Terry Kiewiet, LB Transport, George Deer, McKenna Truck Center, Tim Feight, Jacobson Companies, Troy Knight, McKenna Truck Center

Second Flight - 3rd Place - Lonnie Crownover, Kenworth Mid-Iowa, Scott Cirksena, Kenworth Truck Company, Doug Casten, Barton Solvents, Terri Thomsen, Joe Zaputil Trucking

Putting Contest - (L-R) Mark Hanson, Reggie Crumes, Cleo Heying, Gary Marker, Ross Habben, Mike Bagg, Mack Harbor, George Deer, Chic Jacobi, Clark Bannister, Lonnie Crownover, Greg Ollinger

A special thanks to the committee of volunteers that organized the event; Clark Bannister and Mike Bagg, Central Trailer Service, Dave Nelsen, Freightliner of Des Moines and Eric Aspengren, Truck Leasing Inc. The group not only enjoyed a nice day of golf and networking but were able to participate in several other contests that helped raise money for the cause. First Vice Chairman Bob Kohlwes and IMTA President Brenda Neville had 100% participation at their specific contest hole and also had a great time greeting participants. Thanks to all the folks that came out to support Truck PAC Iowa. The planning committee is looking forward to an even larger group of participants at the 2010 event.

PuttingContestPuttingContestPuttingContest

Hole-In-OneHole-In-OneHole-In-One

SecondFlight

SecondFlight

SecondFlight

Congratulations!Dave Nelsen with Freightliner of Des Moines had a great day at Beaver Creek when he got a hole in one at the Truck PAC golf outing! Congratulations to Dave Nelsen.



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By: Travis ScottContributing Writer

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The End? Or the Beginning?The U.S. recession will probably end in the third quarter of 2009, a survey of business economists showed. The world’s largest economy is reported to begin expanding next quarter, according to 74 percent of economists in a National Association for Business Economics survey. The Government stimulus spending and Federal Reserve efforts to loosen up credit markets seems to be helping pull the economy out of its worst slump in half a century.

But there are still two words that we can’t seem to get away from: cautiously optimistic. We are still seeing low consumer spending and a stalled manufacturing industry that have taken a toll on our industry in a time when we’ve been pitched from a variety other angles. Nearly all major trucking companies reported lower first quarter revenue and falling profits as the recession continues and shipping demands slide. This on top of that fact, we were already hemorrhaging from last year’s increased fuel costs, spiraling insurance costs, environmental challenges and the most depressed economy in more than 20 years.

For companies all over the country it has been crunch time for more than a year. Already, in the first quarter of 2009 approximately 480 companies went under nationwide. That’s less than 1 percent of

the national total freight capacity. More than 3,000 trucking companies closed – taking seven of every 100 trucks off the road. Here in Iowa, the trucking industry employed 93,000 people last year and today that number has dropped to just over 78,000 people.

Recent reports also show truck tonnage is still at record lows. April 2009 compared with April 2008, tonnage contracted 13.2 percent, which was the worst year-over-year decrease of the current cycle and the largest drop in more than a decade.

In March 2009, tonnage dropped 12.2 percent from a year earlier.

ATA Chief Economist Bob Costello said truck tonnage is getting hit from both the recession and the massive inventory correction that the supply chain is currently undergoing. Costello added that truck freight has yet to hit bottom and it could be a few more months before this occurs.

In short, analyst think the number of trucks on U.S. highways will continue to slide until supply is more aligned with demand. When the trucking business starts to pick up again, they say, other economic factors – from employment rate to gross domestic product – will eventually follow.

While it doesn’t appear that the industry is completely on the mend, industry leaders do report problems appear to have slowed.

Dave Van Wyk, president of Van Wyk Trucking, based in Sheldon, Iowa operating approximately 175 units and a transportation brokerage division, says they are in a holding pattern.

“We aren’t seeing a change in demand up or down, locally,” said Van Wyk. “But our backbone freight, our lines from the coast are really down in volume and are presenting the biggest challenges.”

Dave Neuwohner, safety manager at All Seasons Trucking in Dubuque, Iowa is seeing a similar climate. “We aren’t making any changes. I think, like everyone else, we are monitoring our hiring of owner/operators.” He goes on to say, “Business has been slow – we are seeing it pick up a little, but it’s all stuff that’s been sitting dormant.”

On the banking industry leaders support this notion that signs of improvement are emerging. Jim Kurtenbach, general partner at Prairie Oak Capital, LLC, a venture capital and private equity firm located in Des Moines, seconds the idea that the economy is poised to correct itself. The former state representative went on to say, “We are not seeing vast improvement we are seeing improvement in most sectors. The prospects for 3rd and 4th quarter are for continued improvement.”

Signs of LifeThere does appear to be increasing amounts of data indicating the national and local economic troubles are leveling off, but with each pro seems to follow a con.

The Institute for Supply Management, a trade group of purchase executives, said in May that manufacturing activity contract at a slower than expected pace in April, as new order of factories rose. Unfortunately, this doesn’t seem to be enough. Although inventories are falling, sales are dropping at an even steeper rate, which is wiping out any benefit for the trucking industry. This sign is troubling, especially considering trucking companies see shipments increase in number between three months to a year before the broader economy picks up, as retailers restock and manufactures ramp up.

“I think people are cautiously optimistic, but the economy hasn’t made significant enough changes to inspire confidence,” said Chris Anderson, managing director at, RSM McGladrey Inc., an accounting, business and tax consulting firm. “My biggest concern is with regards to the

c a u t i o u s l y o p t i m i s t i c

“Truck tonnage is getting hit from both the recession and the massive inventory correction that the supply chain is currently undergoing.”

Bob CostelloATA

Jump Start or False Start?



amount of money the state and national government is pumping into the economy and the adverse effects that can have on all the progress we are making.”

Kurtenbach is in line with this notion. “The ordinary business cycle, removing government, serves it best. Right now indicators show that savings are rising and there are even signs of improvement in the housing industry.”

A recent report does show signs of life in this troubled sector. A report produced

by the Commerce department showed single-family housing starts were reported to have increased by 2.8 percent in April, for a total of 368,000 single family housing units began construction that month.

“With some of the best home-buying conditions of a lifetime now in place… single-family builders are starting to see the light on the horizon as more consumers realize they can now obtain the home

of their dreams,” said Joe Robson of the National Association of Home Builders in a statement.

Here in Iowa, the FDIC’s quarterly report painted a rosier picture of Iowa’s banks – indicating Iowa banks are out pacing the national averages.

“If we were being graded on a curved scale, Iowa would have just received an A,” said John

Sorenson, president of the Iowa Bankers Association, with regards to the FDIC report. “The state of the Iowa banking Industry is an indicator for the state of the Iowa economy as a whole and right now we are doing well.”

Sorenson pointed out that Iowa is particularly strong in a number of areas, including: a 7.4 percent increase in bank deposits over last year’s numbers, a good sign of growing consumer confidence; there was a 4.6 increase in loans for a

total $1.7 billion; more than 90 percent of the state’s banks were profitable and the return on assets was reported at .9 percent as compared to .25 percent nationally.

But, Sorenson is quick to note that we are not out the woods yet. “We are seeing an increase in consumer confidence and people buying more, but it’s going to be a gradual return to stability.

Other positives for the state were seen during this past legislative session that wrapped up in April. The initiative to mandate biodiesel field (B5 blend) that would have cost Iowa’s trucking industry more than $70 million annually, was stopped at the close of the session. The bill which could have turned Iowa into a drive-through state had the potential to serve as a drain on both the industry and the state’s budget. Van Wyk is happy about this year’s session, but fears these battles have only just begun and that other states will capitalize on truckers.

“Nearly every state in the nation is suffering budgetary problems. A state only has two ways to make money: on the people who live there and

“We fear a driver shortage like nothing we’ve seen before and we are trying to stay in good position for that.”Dave Van Wyk

Van Wyk Trucking

“I am confident in the 3rd quarter we are going to see increased credit and more lending.”

Jim KurtenbachPrairie Oak Capital, LLC

Invoice Factoring – A New Option?Companies throughout the country who are feeling the squeeze of bank lines of credit lowering and shrinking are turning to invoice factoring. Invoice factoring, in effect, allows trucking companies to convert freight bills into instant cash flow within 24 hours, by purchasing the account receivable at a discount.

Although not widely seen in the Midwest factoring is often seen as a safe financial service for some companies, which can help trucks continue to haul freight, employ people and ultimately stay in business.

Bergen says that the factoring department at Wells Fargo is experiencing an increase in clients

interested in the service. “I can see how factoring would be a nice fit for smaller companies. In this industry, your receivables are the only thing you can borrow against.”

Jeff Pomerantz, of Interface Financial Group, in Des Moines, Iowa a 35-year old company that provides a variety of business financing services suggests that factoring is a credible option for cash strapped companies. For instance, companies that don’t qualify for more traditional bank financiering or are having trouble with existing lines of credit. Pomertantz is quick to stress that his organization is not a competitor or replacement for banking loans.

“The banks have really tightened their standards. Factoring is an option in some of those instances. We like to think we are a resource for the banks.”



the people who don’t live there. The state’s first option is always going to be capitalizing on those who don’t live there. That’s where truckers passing through are getting hit.”

This is doubly troubling since outlooks for the upcoming months have fuel prices rising throughout 2009. Oil analysts predict a painful “run-up” in gasoline prices. However, in a sign that consumers may be responding to higher prices, the Energy Department report also showed that average daily gasoline demand since the start of the year is up 0.9 percent, compared with an increase of 1.4 percent during the same period in 2005.

“I’m afraid that as these gas prices increase we are going to see companies that have been operating on already razor thin margins are going to slip under,” said Kurtenbach.

Dave Bergen, vice president Wells Fargo Finance, says that while the gas prices may present a challenge for smaller companies they may also present an opportunity. “If those smaller companies that made it thought last year’s high gas prices can manage through this year’s less expensive gas they could be in good condition as the economy picks up.”

Experts look to that as an inevitable part of this process. The number of trucks on the road simply has to align itself with the demand.

“There is little doubt that as the economy improves we will see an increase in both fuel prices and inflation,” said Anderson. “We have to be careful that all progress we’ve been striving to make is not erased by the efforts we’ve employed to get here.”

Anderson points out that one potential method for companies to stay afloat as gas prices both rise due to natural flux of the economy as well as the annual summer increase is to hedge gas prices. “While gas prices may go down, owners were still happy with what they were paying at the time and could still be happy through the potentially trying summer months.”

A Glimmer? Or Light at the end of the Tunnel?While there appears to be light at the end of the tunnel, no one is running to it just yet. The closing quarters of 2009 seem to bring not the promise of rapid rebound but of increasing stability.

“I am confident in the 3rd quarter we are going to see increased credit and more lending. In the end, the

balance of 2009 trucking demands will stay reluctantly flat with some minor improvements,” remarks Kurtenbach. “The U.S., South American, and Japan are actually leading the global economic recovery. We are working to right the wrongs we have suffered in 2008 and even 2009 as we head into 2010.”

As we move into the year that has been marked as the market’s turning point, industry leaders like Dave Van Wyk are focusing on growing from these stagnant times.

“We are monitoring our cost. We haven’t deviated from our replacement schedule, because we want to be poised to capitalize on the market changes when they arrive,” says Van Wyk. “We fear a driver shortage like nothing we’ve seen before and we are trying to stay in good position for that.”

Van Wyk is also quick to note that he was optimistic a month ago that we’d be coming out of this by now, but he is continually disappointed with what he calls “false starts.”

“In the end, we have to put our heads down and push on. I just wish I knew for how long.”


Labor Department

Reviewing Employer/Employee IssuesBecause the trucking industry provides employment for such a large number of individuals many IMTA members have probably already found themselves involved in an investigation initiated by the Iowa Division of Labor’s Wage Enforcement section. Hopefully, if we’ve done our job correctly, the following information is old news to those readers.

Each year in excess of one thousand claims are filed with our office alleging violations of Iowa’s Wage Payment Collection Law, Chapter 91A of the Iowa Code. The Iowa Division of Labor is responsible for investigating these allegations and if the claims prove to be valid will make every attempt to collect the unpaid wages.

There is a very real misconception by both employees filing a claim and employers receiving notice that the claim has been filed against them that we are advocates for the employee. Many claimants believe that filing the claim guarantees payment and often the employer views our notice of claim as a demand for payment. In either case the party is mistaken.

A Claim for Wages is simply an accusation with, in most cases, the burden of proof being the responsibility

of the accuser. In cases of allegations of improper deductions from wages that burden shifts to the employer. The Division of Labor collects information from both parties until a determination regarding liability can be made. This

decision is reached based upon a preponderance of the evidence. While there is no reason to disbelieve the employee, neither is there any reason to disbelieve the employer.

In addition to the letter of alleged violation, the employer is provided with an Employer’s Wage Claim Response form. The Division

asks that this form be completed and returned

within 14 days. Care should be taken in completing this form as accurately as possible and any supporting documentation is welcomed. This is particularly true in the trucking industry given the large variety of wage payment methods utilized.

Once the response form is returned, the employee is given the opportunity to provide a reply to this information and in many cases this will lead to additional requests for information being made to the employer.

After all pertinent information has been collected from both parties the evidence is reviewed to determine the enforceability of the claim. If the claim is thought to be enforceable, the Division of Labor will notify the

employer regarding payment and, if necessary, initiate court action to obtain a judgment against the employer.

Anyone with questions regarding filing a Claim for Wages, responding to the claim, or any other portion of Chapter 91A is encouraged to call 515-281-5337 or to e-mail [email protected] or to visit our web site at www.iowaworkforce.org/labor/wage.htm.

The Iowa Division of Labor is responsible for investigating these allegations and if the claims prove to be valid will make every attempt to collect the unpaid wages.

Stephan Hampton has been with the Division of Labor for 20 years and has been involved with the enforcement of 91A the entire time. Previously Stephan was with the Fifth Judicial District Department of Court Services and also the Iowa Civil Rights Commission. An additional ten years was spent in the private sector.


The Economy

Economic Free-Fall is Likely Over, but We’re Not Out of the Woods Just YetThe U.S. economy has been in a recession since December 2007, hitting its worst period late last year and early this year. In fact, real (i.e., inflation adjusted) gross domestic product (GDP) contracted 6.3 percent during the fourth quarter of 2008 and 5.7 percent during the first quarter of this year. (Both decreases are annualized rates.) Those are likely to be the largest quarterly reductions of this recession; however, I don’t expect to see rapid growth anytime soon.

I am forecasting GDP to fall 2.5 percent during this quarter. This will be similar to the current pattern exhibited by several other key economic indicators – that is, contracting at a slower rate. And while most indicators have yet to grow, decreasing at a slower pace is an important first step before the economy begins to expand again. I believe that GDP will be essentially flat in the third quarter of this year and then increase less than 1 percent in the final quarter of the year.

Consumer SpendingSluggish consumer spending is the main reason why the economy will improve slowly in the second half of the year. There are several factors causing consumers to cut back on their purchases. First, while the rate of job losses improved in April, the economy is still shedding a significant number of positions. Since January 2008, payrolls are off 5.7 million and the unemployment rate jumped to 8.9 percent in April.

Second, household net worth plummeted a staggering 25 percent in just 10 quarters. A family’s largest

asset, their home, has fallen significantly in value, putting many owners upside down with their loans. Third, household debt is near record highs.

Fourth, credit conditions remain tight. All of these trends combined make it easy to see why spending will be sluggish and the savings rate will increase over the next few months.

This isn’t a bad trend for the long-run viability of our economy, but it means that the economic recovery will be slow going.

Inventory Correction is Hurting TruckingNot only are truck freight volumes being severely impacted by the worst economy in decades, but the massive inventory correction that is transpiring is also depressing freight levels. Sales throughout the supply chain fell so quickly that, in just a few of months, the

amount of inventory, relative to those sales, ballooned to levels

not seen since 2001. Additionally, the rate of increase in inventories

(relative to sales) was unprecedented.

Certainly, many of your customers may have told you that they were doing a good job managing their inventories; that is probably true except for the fact that they couldn’t anticipate the dramatic decline in their sales.

Until this inventory correction is completed, and it is probably still a couple of months away from that point, truck freight will remain weak. It also means that trucking will probably not lead the economic recovery by as many months as it did in past cycles.

Better Times to Come, EventuallyThe economy has begun to take promising steps in the right direction. The rate of decrease in most key economic indicators is slowing – they aren’t growing yet, but this is the first step to recovery. Trucking will eventually turn and companies will begin making money again. Don’t be too discouraged if the recovery starts slowly, as that is expected. To be sure, there are risks to this outlook though, including a double-dip, so stay tuned.

Bob Costello,ATA

The rate of decrease in most key economic indicators is slowing - they aren’t growing yet, but this is the first stpe to recovery.

Bob Costello is the Chief Economist for the American Trucking Associations (ATA). Bob manages all of the ATA’s collection, analysis, and dissemination of trucking economic information. Bob is often cited in the news media as an expert on the trucking economy. His comments and insights have been shared in the Wall Street Journal, Business Week, CNBC, and National Public Radio.


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One of our trucks hit a deer, causing extensive front enddamage. The Northland examiner met with us on thevery day we filed the claim to inspect the truck, completethe damage estimate and arrange for repairs. The losswas settled in a couple days with minimal impact to ourdaily business, and we’re back on the road!

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NL_09_Claims(4)_IA:Layout 1 5/5/09 11:25 AM Page 3


Biodiesel and Fuel QualityAs the biodiesel industry has grown, ensuring fuel quality has become a focus in order to meet the needs of the trucking industry. BQ-9000 is a voluntary fuel quality assurance program, overseen by the National Biodiesel Accreditation Commission (NBAC) and adopted by the National Biodiesel Board and the Canadian Renewable Fuels Association. BQ-9000 couples the foundations of universally accepted quality management systems with the product specification ASTM D 6751, and has become the premier quality designation in the

industry. The program covers storage, sampling, testing, blending, shipping, distribution and fuel management practices. Any biodiesel producer or marketer is eligible to become either a BQ-9000 Producer or BQ-9000 Marketer.

“Producers and marketers new to the biodiesel industry recognize the value of BQ-9000 certification,” said Leland Tong, Chairman of NBAC. “We are seeing companies strive to meet our high quality standards as one of their first orders of business. It is exciting that the newest members of the biodiesel industry see the critical importance of delivering a consistent, high-quality product with BQ-9000 both for their customers and for their own long-term success.”

A study released in 2008 by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) shows the biodiesel industry has achieved a high degree of success in meeting national fuel quality standards. The study demonstrated that plants certified under BQ-9000 consistently hit the mark, no matter how large or small the plant.

“In the summer of 2006, our Board of Directors put into place a strong fuel quality policy with the goal of increasing the level of in-specification biodiesel in the U.S. to 100 percent,” said Joe Jobe, CEO of the National Biodiesel Board (NBB). “The NBB’s outreach efforts with

enforcement agencies and our investment in the BQ-9000 program have yielded terrific results, and we’ll continue to push for 100 percent.”

In addition to putting more resources

into BQ-9000, the NBB has worked with the Internal Revenue Service and Environmental Protection Agency on enforcing fuel quality. In order to receive the federal tax incentives for biodiesel, the biodiesel must meet D 6751.

“ASTM standards are in place to protect consumers, and demonstrating that the vast majority of our producers are meeting that standard will continue to build consumer confidence,” said Steve Howell, Technical Director for the NBB. “This will also reassure engine makers that their growing support for biodiesel is well-placed.”

The study confirmed that feedstock choice was irrelevant to whether the fuel met the standard. Biodiesel made from

recycled cooking oil, for example, was just as likely to meet spec as fuel made from more common feedstocks like soybean oil.

After more than fifteen years of extensive research and subsequent balloting by the ASTM fuel experts, ASTM voted in 2008 to approve three key sets of biodiesel specifications that should significantly bolster automaker support and consumer demand for biodiesel:• Small changes to the existing B100

biodiesel blend stock specification (ASTM D6751)

• Finished specifications to include up to 5% biodiesel (B5) in the conventional petrodiesel specification (ASTM D975)

• A new specification (ASTM D7467) for blends of between 6% biodiesel (B6) to 20% biodiesel (B20) for on and off road diesel

Automakers and engine manufacturers have been requesting a finished blend specification for B20 biodiesel blends for several years, with some citing the need for that spec as the single greatest hurdle preventing their full-scale acceptance of B20 use in their diesel vehicles.

The new ASTM specifications for B6-B20 blends will aid engine manufacturers in their engine design and testing processes to optimize the performance of vehicles running on biodiesel blends. The new specifications will also help ensure that only the highest quality biodiesel blends are made available to consumers at the retail pump.

The biodiesel industry has taken aggressive steps to ensure fuel quality for the trucking industry. Much progress has been made and the industry will continue with efforts designed to meet the needs of motor carriers. More information on biodiesel and the trucking industry can be found at www.biotrucker.com and www.iowabiodiesel.org .

Renewable FuelsRandy Olson, Executive Director of the Iowa Biodiesel Board. Randy Olson is the original Executive Director of the Iowa Biodiesel Board (IBB). IBB was founded in 2007 to promote the commercial success of biodiesel in Iowa. Previously, Randy’s career involved the chemical and financial industries.

Randy Olson,Iowa Biodiesel Board

BQ-9000 couples the foundations of universally accepted quality management systems with the product specification ASTM D 6751, and has become the premier quality designation in the industry.


Business EnvironmentCharles E. Sukup, President, Sukup Manufacturing Co., Sheffield also serves as the current Chairman of the Board for the Association of Business and Industry (ABI). ABI is the largest business network in the state with long legacy of advocating for a competitive business climate in Iowa. Offering its members opportunities to network, learn best practices in Lean Processes, Workforce, Workers’ Compensation, Controlling Health Care Costs, Employee Drug Testing, Environmental Issues and Leadership.

Uniting With Other Associations for our Common GoalAs Chair of the Iowa Association of Business & Industry (ABI) Board of Directors, it is a pleasure for me to write this message for the IMTA Lifeliner magazine. And, as the President of Sukup Manufacturing Co., a longtime IMTA member in Sheffield, I am proud to be a part of this edition as well.

IMTA is a key organization and our company strongly supports the important work of the association. IMTA’s advocacy, training, and other programs make it a valuable industry resource. ABI is another critical resource and is Iowa’s oldest and largest statewide business organization. ABI and IMTA are two important allies in improving our state’s business climate.

During the last legislative session, ABI members worked hard to stop several bad-for-business proposals floated by some members of the General Assembly.

After some scary times early this year we are fortunate that these bills that would have been detrimental to job growth in Iowa did not pass. However, the extremely close votes in the Legislature cause concern and uncertainty to Iowa business leaders and others looking to locate in Iowa. So, my evaluation of the past legislative session is similar to the reaction some of us have when we compare a stock fund that was down -20% as compared to the index of

-40%. It’s better than expected, but is still not a positive indicator of economic prosperity in business or for the state.

We need to remember that our work has not ended just because the legislature has adjourned. ABI is holding meetings,

reinforcing coalitions, and energizing members as we continue our work to protect Iowa businesses and increase the opportunity for economic growth for all of Iowa’s citizens.

We must be vigilant and proactive. Developing a personal relationship with your legislator is the most effective political advocacy that you can do. Now, when legislators are back in their districts, is the time to invite them into our facilities. Now is the time to engage them in discussions about growing Iowa. And now is the time to build a relationship with them that helps them

make sound decisions that serve Iowa best. We know that you do that all the time and so do we at ABI.

We need to encourage more people with experience in business to serve in the Legislature. Please consider supporting one of your employees who is interested in public service. They can make a significant contribution to the future business environment within our state!

As I write these words, ABI is getting ready to celebrate its 106th anniversary. The 2009 ABI Convention at Lake Okoboji in June will draw hundreds of business leaders from all four corners of the state. We invite you to join us at this and other ABI events (find more information at www.iowaabi.org). As for the convention, we’ll hear from some terrific speakers, relax in some great Iowa venues, and enjoy the very best business networking our state has to offer. Our focus, however, will always be on increasing economic opportunity.

We know we share that goal with IMTA. Like you, we know that Iowa communities are better when Iowa businesses are strongest.

Perhaps like most of you, ABI members have experienced a challenging business cycle in recent months. However, most ABI members and Iowa employers remain strong and after some fearful months it appears that our state has turned a corner. Orders are up and prospects appear brighter for the coming weeks. Now is not the time to be timid; ABI is seeking aggressive action on the part of legislators and we know IMTA shares that goal. We look forward to continuing to work with you to achieve it.

Again, many thanks for your long record of leadership. Best wishes for a productive year for your business and for IMTA!

IMTA and ABI work closely on a number of Legislative issues and are proud to be a part of Iowa’s Business Coalition at the capitol.

Charles E. Sukup, Sukup Manufacturing

We must be vigilant and proactive. Developing a personal relationship with your legislator is the most effective political advocacy that you can do.


EducationTake advantage of the great demonstrations and seminars offered by the IMTA.

New Engine Updates:• Hear from the engine manufacturers first hand on

how their engines are performing.

• Testimonials from members who are currently using these engines in their fleets.

• Get answers on questions relating to the new engines based on topics such as: fuel mileage, maintenance costs, regeneration issues, and much more.

• Hands on demonstrations of the new engines by the manufacturers, see how they work and what is new and different with these engines.

D e m o n s t r a t i o n D a t e s :

August 4, 2009 – Davenport, Iowa

August 5, 2009 – Cedar Rapids, Iowa

August 6, 2009 – Des Moines, Iowa

August 7, 2009 – Sioux City, Iowa

CSA 2010Comprehensive Safety Analysis 2010 (CSA 2010) is a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) initiative to improve large truck and bus safety and ultimately reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities. Implementation is expected to begin in summer 2010.

Attend one of the sessions dedicated to explaining the step by step CSA 2010 Enforcement Process.

S e m i n a r L o c a t i o n s :

August 4, 2009 – DMACC Carroll, IA - 9:00 AM – Noon

August 6, 2009 - Cedar Rapids, IA – 9:00 AM – Noon

August 12, 2009 – IMTA Training Center Des Moines, IA – 9:00 AM – NoonS e m i n a r C o s t :

$50 / Members

$75 / Non Members


Welcome New Members!123 Movers, Fort Lee, NJEilers Contracting, Inc., Holland, IAHeartland Express, Inc., North Liberty, IAOberg Freight Company, Fort Dodge, IAR & G General Construction Co., Indianola, IASilver Lake Transport, Ankeny, IAVatterott College, Des Moines, IAWhittemore Truck & Trailer, Algona, IAWorld Wide Export & Equipment Sales, Inc., Bevington, IA

“These new members have realized the benefits of joining IMTA. We look forward to their involvement to further increase the strength of the association!” -Mike Spalla, IMTA

Mike Spalla,Membership Manager

IMTA’s Newest Members

Your AssociationPositive News about IMTA Members

Peterbilt of Norfolk Holds Grand OpeningCustomers and trucking industry friends attended the Grand Opening Celebration of Peterbilt of Norfolk. The $2 million state-of-the-art facility was constructed last year on a 5.5-acre site at the intersection of Highway 81 and Monroe Ave. in Norfolk, Neb. The 18,000-square-foot service center, which opened for business in December, features a large retail parts store/warehouse, 10 service bays and

a new/used truck sales lot. Peterbilt of Norfolk is one of four full-service Peterbilt dealerships in the region owned and

operated by Sioux City Truck Sales, Inc. The other locations are in Des Moines, Council Bluffs, and Sioux City in Iowa.

ICSM Holds Annual “Ride Along” DayThe Iowa Council of Safety Management once again hosted its annual “Ride Along” event and this year it featured the Iowa State Patrol. Members of the ICSM are invited to ride along with patrolmen who are part of the Patrol’s MCSAP unit. These officers are specifically trained to deal with commercial vehicles and the ride along program provides positive

exchange between the patrol and Iowa’s trucking industry. “This program is always very popular because safety personnel are interested in learning more about the process and also getting better acquainted with folks in the enforcement community. We have a good working relationship with the Patrol and these kinds of exercises only enhance that relationship,” said IMTA Director of Safety and Security, Don Egli.

Iowa Council of Safety Management Members participate in ride along program with the Iowa State Patrol.


Your AssociationPositive News about IMTA Members

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2009 Road TeamIowa’s Road Team is a small group of professional truck drivers selected each year to represent the industry. Although they are still full-time drivers, these drivers will do 6-7 events throughout the year. They will travel across the state to meet with the public and talk about highway safety and trucking issues. There can be up to eight drivers on Iowa’s Road Team.

Since the beginning of the year, the 2009 Road Team has been very busy making contact with legislators, students, Department of Transportation, Highway Patrol, and Federal Motor Carrier Safety officials. So far the team has visited four schools reaching over 600 students

teaching them about sharing the road with trucks and careers in trucking. As they finish out the year, the 2009 Road Team has already proven to be a very effective tool in promoting the trucking industry in Iowa.

Top - LR - Kevin Garlick, Con-way Freight, Denny Bell, Wal-Mart Transportation, LLC, Ryan Kelly, Fed-Ex Freight, 1st step down- Lynn Palmer, Con-way Freight, 4th step down, David Towne, Wal-Mart Transportation, LLC, Ground LR - Glen Frick, Perishable Distributors of Iowa, Ltd., Jack Wyatt, Wal-Mart Transportation, LLC

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Your Association in Action

IMTA Board of Directors Hold Spring Meeting The IMTA Board of Directors met in late May and held their annual Spring Board meeting. The meeting was held at the IMTA office and over 45 directors and special guests were in attendance.

The purpose of the Spring Board meeting is to review the results of the recently adjourned legislative session and get an update on IMTA’s activities and finances. Once again the meeting was an effective venue in dispersing information to IMTA leaders and creating discussion on a number of important topics.

“The Board is always very engaged and involved in IMTA’s legislative activities and this meeting is always important in helping us prepare for the upcoming legislative session as well as outline our legislative work for the summer months. As Iowa business continues to come under fire, IMTA is even more involved in a number of different issues relating not only to trucking but business in general. This is always a great meeting and it has been encouraging to see so many board members in attendance,” said IMTA Chairman of the Board Mark Zieman.

IMTA President Brenda Neville and IMTA Lobbyist Dave Scott presented the legislative wrap up report and thanked the

members for their involvement with IMTA’s lobbying issues. IMTA Board members Bob Kohlwes, George Crouse, Mike Riggan, Kyle Krause and Murry Fitzer also presented reports on various issues as did Mike Bagg with the Allied Division.

“I find these meetings to be extremely valuable and informative and well worth my time. I am pleased with the direction our association is going and extremely happy to see such a renewed interest by IMTA’s leaders. I think we need the association now more than ever and having a high level of involvement is extremely important,” said IMTA second vice Chairman, Mike Riggan, TanTara Transportation.

The next Board Meeting will be held in conjunction with the IMTA Annual Meeting which is held at the September Management Conference.

The Executive and Policy Committees met before the Spring Board meeting.

Board Members listen to a presentation during the spring board meeting.

Cathy Mengel with Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Sheild presents information to the Board of Directors on services offered to our members

Denny Franzen, D.J. Franzen, Mike Bagg, Central Trailer Service, Mike Gerdin, Heartland Express, Inc. and Larry Bergdale, TrueNorth Companies.

Matt Strawn and Jeff Boeyink with the Republican Party of Iowa present information on the direction of the Republican Party in Iowa during lunch at the Spring Board meeting.


Your Association in Action2009 IMTA Leadership Program Wraps Up with another Successful YearSince the late 1980s, IMTA has been offering a

leadership program to the membership and this year proved once again that IMTA has many bright and dedicated up and coming leaders. The 2009 class met five times and were given insight on a number of topics ranging from the economy to proper manners when at a business function. A variety of speakers were once again featured and the group also met several Iowa leaders through the luncheon speaker program.

“This is one of the most important programs we offer because it insures that IMTA will have some good leadership far into the future,” said IMTA President, Brenda Neville.

Participants are either nominated by a business associate or self nominate and are required to attend the majority of the

sessions. The class is comprised of both carrier members and vendor members. In addition to the classroom work, the class also participates in several team work exercises and networking. “Our hope is that these folks leave this experience with some added skills, knowledge and confidence. Furthermore, we hope that they feel compelled to be even more involved with the IMTA after seeing and learning more about their association. It continues to be very successful and popular among the membership so I am grateful that we can continue to offer such high level training to these future leaders,” said Brenda Neville, IMTA President.

Callista Gould, Culture and Manners Institute presented a program entitled First Impressions to the leadership class at a May session.

Jim Kurtenbach, Prairie Oak Capital, Brenda Neville, IMTA, David Vaudt, Auditor of the State. Auditor Vaudt was one of our featured lunch speakers.

Mike Bagg, Central Trailer, Murry Fitzer, Florilli Transportation, Brenda Neville, IMTA, Mark Zieman, Cherry Valley Enterprises, Bob Kohlwes, BTI Special Commodities. These members were on hand to serve on a panel discussing current economic situation and their own leadership skills.

The Leadership Class participated in a team building exercise that stresses working together.

Susan Voss, Iowa Insurance Commissioner and Mark

Zieman, Cherry Valley Enterprises. Commissioner

Voss was one of our featured lunch speakers.


Your Association in Action

2009 IMTA Leadership Class

Clark Bannister,Central Trailer Service

Kim Hanlon,Des Moines Transportation Co.

John O’Halloran,Quality Services Corp.

Lance Cheney,Ruan

Todd Kelley,Panama Transfer, Inc.

Joel Mattox,Midwest Wheel Companies

David Holdsworth,Farner Bocken Company

L u n c h S p e a k e r sSession 1– Matt Whitaker,U.S. Attorney - Southern District of Iowa

Session 2 – Shirley McGuire,Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

Session 3 – David Vaudt,Auditor of the State

Session 4 – Bill Northey, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture

Session 5 – Susan Voss,Iowa Insurance Division

Joel Maddox, Midwest Wheel Companies, Deb Scott, PI Worldwide, Clark Bannister, Central Trailer Service.

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The Final Word

Sound Familiar? We hope to see you in July…Plans for Iowa’s first annual Truck Congress, a new statewide exposition and convention, dedicated to highway safety and progress in transportation were, launched last week by leaders of the Iowa Motor Truck Association and the truck equipment industry.

Although the exact time and place had not been set at the printing of this newspaper, plans already in the making were enough to promise the biggest event in the history of the Iowa trucking industry.

Features of the Truck Congress, probably to be held in September at the Iowa State Fair Grounds in Des Moines, will include:

The 1949 Iowa Truck Roadeo, a competitive demonstration of truck driving skill and traffic knowledge, selecting two state champions to represent Iowa at the national Truck Roadeo in Boston, Mass., in late October.

The 1949 convention of the Iowa Motor Truck Association with plenty of entertainment as well as business sessions and the exposition features of the Truck Congress.

A mammoth Truck Equipment Exposition, sponsored and presented by the nation’s leading manufacturers and Iowa’s leading suppliers of trucks, trailers and motor transport equipment.

Safety demonstrations, education and exhibits to be arranged in cooperation with the State Highway Patrol, State Safety Council and other groups dedicated to the prevention of traffic accidents.

A parade of progress in motor transportation, dramatizing the development of the trucking industry, its public service, and modern transport equipment.

Top-notch, big-name entertainment attractions to stimulate attendance by the general public as well truck operators and dealers. All those in attendance need to have some good entertainment.

It was agreed at the first meeting, it was agreed unanimously that this new venture of the trucking and truck equipment industries would serve the following purposes:

1. Promote good will for the trucking industry and create a positive event for the association members to attend. This good will can be promoted by dramatizing and publicizing the skill of the truck drivers and the vital importance of motor transportation in the every day life of every citizen.

2. Show how modern equipment has made trucks more and more efficient, safer to operate and easier on the highways.

3. Encourage and promote the safety efforts of the truckers themselves through the Roadeo competition, convention

discussions, demonstrations of safety equipment and other activities.

4. Provide a “big show” where the general public, the truckers and the equipment suppliers will get together and find out what they are doing for one another.

The Truck Congress will be a two-day affair, with everything running through both days. It will be promoted throughout the membership and to the general public. It is hoped that the newly formed Truck Congress will be a positive boost to the membership and the general public alike. There would be minimal fees charged for the first Truck Congress so that people will attend. The committee believes that this BIG EVENT will be able to be offered for many years.

The Truck Congress was launched in 1949 and was a big success. The IMTA Truck Congress was held for almost a decade at the Iowa State Fairgrounds and was considered one of IMTA’s greatest member recruitment tools. They always say that “History Repeats Itself” so now 60 years later as we near the 2009 version of the IMTA Truck Congress by launching our event in Newton, we too are optimistic that this event will be a success on many fronts.

Join us as we all play a role in this historic event on July 9, 10 and 11th at the Iowa Speedway in Newton....a bright spot for all IMTA members to take advantage of.


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