2010 lifeliner magazine (issue 4)

Winter 2010

Lifeliner

IOWA MOTOR TRUCK ASSOCIATION

State

Truckingof the

IndustryPerspectives from Trucking Leaders

I N S I D E :Member Outreach

Carrier Spotlight:Green Products Company

Hours of Service

Take the Fear out of CSA

2 Winter 2010Lifeliner

Joe Morten & Sondba Motor-Ways

Urbandale, IA515-266-1113

Reback Truck Ins.Sioux City, IA800-383-4848

Reynolds & ReynoldsDes Moines, IA515-243-1724

Donaghy-KemptonDes Moines, IA515-288-8545

Edwards-BrandtMason City, IA641-423-0675

Mel FosterDavenport, IA563-359-5446

Odebolt Ins.Odebolt, IA

712-668-2283

Millhiser SmithCedar Rapids, IA

319-365-8611

Peoples Ins.Waverly, IA

319-352-6327

Winter 2010 3Lifeliner

IMTA StaffBrenda Neville, CAEPresident

Don EgliDirector of Safety and Security

DeAnn MoodyExecutive Assistant

Holly MueggenbergCommunications & Education Manager

Phillip NicolinoMarketing Manager

Mike SpallaMembership Manager

Our SupportersGreat West Casualty ..................... 2Boyer Petroleum ............................ 4Central Trailer Service ................... 6Iowa Soybean Association ............. 6JJ Keller & Associates .................. 14Iowa Truck Services. .................... 26

Des Moines Truck Brokers, Inc. .... 29HireRight .................................... 36Ziegler ....................................... 43Quality Services Corp .................. 43McGowen, Hurst, Clark & Smith ... 43Midwest Wheel Companies ............ 44

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

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

Safety Update .......................................8

Legislative Update ............................9-11

National Update ............................12-13

Legal Update ......................................15

Carrier Spotlight ............................16-18

Capitol Club .......................................19

Cover Story ...................................20-25

Iowa Truck Services .............................27

Members in the News.....................28-29

Executive Committee ...........................30

Finance Committee .............................31

Foundation Committee ........................31

Compensation Committee ...................32

Strategic Planning Committee ..............32

Building Committee ............................33

Legislative PAC Committee ..................33

Board Meeting ....................................34

Fuel Savings Program ..........................35

Save the Date - IMTA Events ................36

Motor Carrier Foundation Update ........37

Member Outreach .........................38-40

Sponsorship Program ..........................41

The Final Word ...................................42

20

In this Issue

1638


Chairman’s MessageMike Riggan, TanTara Transportation Corporation

First of all, I would like to thank all of you for the tremendous support you have shown since I came in as your new chairman. Over the past several weeks we have been attending outreach

meetings throughout the state and it has been very enjoyable meeting the members and discussing the issues of the day. In visiting with these members the one thing I tell them all is that this is OUR association and your feedback is very important and is taken seriously. I am proud to be a member of the association and would like all members to feel the same way. In order to develop that pride you need to be involved, so we will be asking you to participate as well.

As we gear up for the 2011 legislative session there will be many opportunities to get involved. Like many of you, I really didn’t care that much about the legislative affairs when I first joined the association. I remember the IMTA staff telling me about the valuable work that was being done at the capitol but it really didn’t seem that important to me. I will tell you that over time I came to realize how critical having a strong voice at the statehouse really is. I learned that if we didn’t have proper representation the politicians would continue to treat us like mushrooms. I have grown to respect the legislative process and believe that even old truck drivers like me can play an important role in this process. Lawmakers want to hear from us. They know we are the ones working out there every day where the rubber meets the road. They may not always like what we have to say but that is OK. They still need to hear it and that is the value of the process.

I remember my first day at the capitol and I wasn’t sure what I was getting

myself into. I will never forget the respect shown to us by the politicians we met. They realize the importance of trucking to this state and wanted to hear what we had to say. I joined several members on the call on Washington DC this last year and found it to be a gratifying experience. Those folks in DC live in a different world and I am convinced they need to hear from all of us back here in Iowa now more than ever. I would ask and encourage each IMTA member to get involved at some level.

We now have a new group of legislators in Iowa and the 2011 session will be filled with its share of challenges. As I work on this column, we are still unsure as to what the big issues are going to be but we will be prepared nonetheless. One thing we will definitely need to do is educate all the newly elected legislators. Unlike a lot of industries, we have a great tool….our big shiny trucks. Who doesn’t want to ride in a big truck? We

will be implementing a campaign to get legislators in a truck and then take that opportunity to tell them about our industry. We need lots of people to help in that effort so if you are interested, please let me know and we will call on you to help.

Another way you can help is by writing a check to Truck PAC Iowa. I know that a lot of people are turned off by PACs but that is a part of this process too and we have to have a seat at that table. We have made some great strides in our fundraising efforts but the job is never done. We have some terrific fundraisers planned for 2011 and we are also getting ready to launch a new program where we will be accepting corporate checks to help offset our PAC expenses. We are working on the final details but will be releasing that information soon

and I hope you will consider providing some support. Donations of any size are helpful and with over 700 members in IMTA, we are aiming to grow our PAC each year.

We are still working on the details as far as getting folks up to the Capitol but I would encourage you to take the time to attend one of those events. Coming up to the capitol and waving the flag on behalf the trucking industry is time well spent. The trucking industry is very important in Iowa and just being at the Capitol with a group of truckers is a statement in itself. I hope you will consider getting involved.

I know that everyone is very busy and I know that not everyone is interested in politics or our legislative efforts. But in today’s world, I think we are at a point where we don’t have the luxury NOT TO BE INVOLVED and ENGAGED. If we aren’t out there defending ourselves God only knows what they will do to us. I hope

that you will consider getting involved, even in a small way as we continue to make our advocacy efforts a top priority for OUR ASSOCIATION.

Again, I appreciate your support and I am always available to listen to what you have to say so don’t hesitate to give me a call or drop me an email. Remember, IF YOU GOT IT A TRUCK BROUGHT IT.

M. J. Riggan

Mike RigganIMTAChairman of the Board

I really hope that you will consider getting involved, even in a small way as we continue to make our advocacy efforts a top priority for OUR ASSOCIATION.


Funded by your soybean checkoffFunded by the soybean checkoff.

Soy biodiesel energy for today. energy for tomorrow.

The answer to our energy needs is closer than you think. It helps fuel our economy by providing jobs in our communities and helps reduce harmful effects on our environment. It’s Soy biodiesel, a renewable and sustainable resource made from surplus soybean oil that is made right here in Iowa. Soy biodiesel helps fuel the future so we can all breathe a little easier.


President’s MessageBrenda Neville, Iowa Motor Truck Association

As I sit down to write this column, the 2011 legislative session is just beginning and within the last several weeks some of the most significant regulatory and compliance changes we have ever seen

were recently introduced to the trucking industry. As I hear from members and non-members on these issues, it reminds me of some of my first days on this job in the 1980s when deregulation was being introduced. Opinions, ideas, concerns and objections flew as owners and veterans in this industry maneuvered and positioned themselves in response to the unknown world of deregulation. Emotional debates ensued and more than one IMTA meeting derailed due to differing views and philosophies on this topic of interest. It was a time of great uncertainty and grave concern as the trucking industry was hurled into unchartered territory. I knew nothing about trucking at the time but learned very quickly that things were “never going to be same for trucking as we knew it in the mid-1980s”.

Eventually, the industry adjusted and adapted to deregulation, proponents and opponents continued to leverage their position and to this day, there are tremendously differing opinions as to the long term impact that deregulation had on the trucking industry as a whole. Now fast forward to current day and it is fair to say that the last two years have provided a landscape unlike anything we have ever seen before and some of the emotional turmoil that existed during deregulation has certainly surfaced again. Truckers continue to remind me it is truly “survival of the fittest” in our industry! Again, just like the early days of deregulation, the emotional opinions of what the industry has been through

and where the industry is heading are as different and as colorful as a rainbow.

AND, just as we were starting to see a little ray of hope in regard to an economic recovery, some major regulatory changes were introduced just in time for Christmas 2010. Even though, we have been preparing and anticipating the implementation of CSA and the proposed hours of service rules, it was still a disheartening reality that once agin the trucking industry would be facing some tremendous changes.

Again the opinions, ideas, concerns and feedback provided on these key issues has been as diverse and varied as the number of trucking operations that we have in Iowa. Solutions are not readily available and frustrations are mounting as carriers face ongoing uncertainty and a relentless attack on their ability to run a profitable operation. It is a time of great change and challenge for the trucking industry.

I have now heard the William Shaekspeare adage “What’s Past is Prologue” on numerous occasions. Governor Graves used it in a speech at the ATA Management Conference and I have heard it on three subsequent occasions in speeches by lawmakers, regulators and by one of our own members. It is an adage that implies that history will repeat itself while at the same time continually influencing the future. So how has the recent past shaped the industry of tomorrow? That is a question that we continue to ponder. A vast majority of the work we do at IMTA involves planning for the future. And while it is impossible for us to predict the future with 100% certainty , we do take great pride in our ability to gather feedback from the members and other sources and use that feedback as we prepare for the future and to serve our membership.

While we can’t make any of these obstacles disappear, we do take on the role of understanding the rules, regulations and laws that impact your

business. And we take that role very seriously. We recognize where we can be effective and we will aggressively fight for the industry and for your ability to operate profitably.

Our number one priority is serving our members and no matter what happens in this industry, we will never sway from that important objective. We hear you, we are your voice. We see you, we are your presence in front of lawmakers and regulators and we share your pain, we are your biggest advocate.

You are not alone and we hope that you will continue to remember that as we navigate through this newest array of challenges. The trucking industry is vitally important to everyone and that is something that will never be lost in the ongoing debate.

We take great pride in serving the membership and no matter what happens in this industry, we will never sway from that important objective.

Brenda NevilleIMTAPresident


Safety Update - CSA

Regulations that Rocked our World The long anticipated launch of CSA finally happened in December as did the release of the proposed changes for the hours of service rules.

The launch of CSA has dramatically changed the regulatory landscape of the industry. This new format represents a major leap forward by introducing among other things, driver accountability and a graduated intervention process. Unfortunately, there still remains a number of significant “bugs” in the system and a common concern among many is why can’t a federal agency take the time to work out all the bugs before they implement something that has such a substantial impact on an industry, especially when the public, primarily “customers” have access to this information as well.

The methodology for this program is still a bone of contention for many. The SMS methodology has already been revised TWICE since spring of 2010 and the FMCSA has said on more than one occasion that it expects continued changes and revisions. FMCSA officials themselves are unable to comment or guide carriers which adds to the frustration of carriers who are working on improving their scores. It was reported that 175 letters were distributed to carriers in Iowa that have deficiencies in two or more areas and another 500 warning letters went to carriers that need to be concerned. It has also been indicated that an additional 70 – 80 letters will be going out on a monthly basis. Now we are told that those letters haven’t went out and it will be February.

Obviously CSA has caught the attention of everyone and many trucking companies have now made a substantial investment in reshaping their safety compliance programs. Many have determined that they need to invest in electronic logs and other equipment that will monitor speed and other things. Several

companies have reported terminating some of their top drivers because they realize that after they really look at the CSA data, these drivers were not really as good as they thought and other companies have imposed some harsh sanctions on drivers that ignore the policies that are in place for necessary compliance procedures. Some of these same companies have also proactively reached out to their customers to educate and inform them about CSA. This proactive work is being done in an attempt to alleviate concern when that same shipper pulls up the CSA information and sees alarming color codes and words that are less than positive about a carrier that they have a long term relationship with.

Predictions as to the full impact are all over the board. Some predict that CSA will reduce capacity and create a driver shortage unlike anything we have ever experienced before. While others predict that salaries and quality of the drivers will increase substantially as will the rate structure. Whether you are a pessimist or an optimist, there will be some changes to the industry….and as with any other regulatory changes; some of those changes are good and some not so good.

But the reality is that CSA is not going to go away. For the past year and half, we as an industry have been preparing for CSA. There has been a renewed interest and commitment to really look at the compliance operation of a company. Procedures and policies have been reviewed and revised and driver training has once again become a top priority by many trucking companies. The shipping community has been forced to get on board and take notice of compliance priorities as well and there could be a potential upside to this in the long run.

Where this will all end up after the dust settles is anyone’s guess but in order to survive, the best course of action that can be implemented by a trucking company is to get informed and educated on the program. While this can seem overwhelming and cumbersome, it really doesn’t need to be if you recognize that there are several sources available to assist you through the process.

One of the most valuable sources available to Iowa carriers is the Iowa Council of Safety Management (ICSM). For decades, this group has been in existence and is comprised of

safety and compliance professionals that are all fighting the same battles each and every day in the trenches of a trucking operation. In addition, other experts from other fields such as insurance, law and compliance consulting are also involved with ICSM. Each month (the second Tuesday) the group meets at the IMTA office.

The business meeting is full of valuable updates specific to CSA and other compliance priorities. The program always features a speaker or a group of speakers that provide valuable insight and education on topics of importance. Often times, regulators are the featured speakers; FMCSA and Iowa DOT are regular presenters at the meetings. More importantly, the networking with other safety and compliance professionals provides an unlimited source of information and direction so a safety professional never has to feel as though they are “alone” in tackling the mountain of regulations that impact a trucking company. ICSM is one of the best resources you have in preparing for the ongoing CSA requirements that are now a reality to every trucking company.

The second resource you have is the Iowa Motor Truck Association (IMTA). IMTA has a professional staff with the expertise and experience to help you with any safety and compliance obstacle you are facing. They are in regular contact with the folks at FMCSA and IDOT in an effort to be able to have the information and answers you need to move in the right direction. They know how to write a corrective action plan, they know how to get an administrative upgrade and they know who to call if they don’t know an answer to a question. They have a whole menu of services available to help you be successful in your compliance efforts and activities.

CSA can be daunting but it doesn’t have to be if you are willing to commit to learning the process and TAKE ADVANTAGE of the services that are available to help you with the process. ICSM and IMTA are here to help, you just have to make the first step in getting that help. For more information on ICSM and IMTA compliance services, please call (515)244-5193 or take a look at the website www.iowamotortruck.com or www.iowatruckservices.com

Gary HandleyBTI Special Commodities, Inc.

Gary Handley is a member of the Iowa Council of Safety Management and serves on its Steering Committee. As a member of the ICSM leadership team, they assist IMTA with policy positions on safety issues.


Legislative Update - 2011 Legislative Session

Governor: Terry Branstad (R)Lt. Governor: Kim Reynolds ( R )Governor’s office: 515-281-5211Official Mailing Address:State Capitol Building 1007 E. Grand AvenueDes Moines, Iowa 50319

House: Democrats - 40 seats Republicans – 60 seats House Switchboard: 515-281-3221

Leadership: Speaker of the House: Kraig Paulsen – Republican/Hiawatha 515-281-3521

House Majority Leader:Linda Upmeyer – Republican/Garner515-281-3521

House Minority Leader:Kevin McCarthy – Democrat/Des Moines515-281-3054

House Republican Leadership Team: Speaker: Kraig PaulsenMajority Leader: Linda UpmeyerSpeaker Pro-Tem: Jeff KaufmannMajority Whip – Erik HellandAsst. Majority Leader – Dave DeYoeAsst. Majority Leader – Steve LukanAsst. Majority Leader – Renee Schulte Asst. Majority Leader – Matt Windshitl

House Democrat Leadership Team: Minority Leader: Kevin McCarthyAsst. Minority Leader: AkoAdbul-SamadAsst. Minority Leader: Mary MasherAsst. Minority Leader: Mark Smith Asst. Minority Leader: Sharon Steckman

Senate: Democrat – 26 seats Republican – 24 seats

Senate Switchboard: 515-281-3371

Leadership:Senate President:Jack Kibbe – Democrat/Emmetsburg515-281-8761

Senate Majority Leader: Mike Gronstal – Democrat/Council Bluffs515-281-3560

Senate Minority Leader: Paul McKinley – Republican/Chariton 515-281-3054

Senate Democrat Leadership Team:Majority Leader: Mike GronstalPresident – Jack KibbieMajority Whip – Tom CourtneyPresident Pro-Tem – Jeff DanielsonAsst. Majority Leader – Joe BolkcomAsst. Majority Leader – Bill DotzlerAsst. Majority Leader – Wally Horn Asst. Majority Leader – Amanda Ragan Asst. Majority Leader – Steve Sodders

Senate Republican Leadership Team: Minority Leader: Paul McKinleyMinority Whip: Steve KetteringAsst. Minority Leader: Merlin BartzAsst. Minority Leader: David Johnson Asst. Minority Leader: Dave Kapucian Asst. Minority Leader: Pat Ward

Email Correspondence: Emails to legislators may be sent to [email protected]: [email protected]

General Questions:Legislative Information [email protected]

General legislative site:Watch live debate, find information about legislators, lobbyists, committee schedules and directory of other links. www.legis.state.ia.us/index2.html

2011 Legislative Session Hot Issues – good chance of passage this session:Job Creation Red Tape CommissionMental Health CareRedistrictingMoney for k-12 schoolsSchool Reform Plans

Warm Issues – one chamber will likely approve but not enough support at beginning of session to get both chambers on board:Same-Sex Marriage Abortion Embroynic Stem Cell Ban More Gun RightsInternet GamblingTax CreditsTaxes for Disaster Recovery Taxes on Spec HomesLimit Farm Taxes Taxes for Police & Fire PensionsIPERS Renewable Energy Ag Regulation Right to WorkAnti-Smoking ProgramsCommunications Network SaleState Vehicle FleetTwo Year Budget vs. one Year Budget Show Identification to Vote Preschool Funding Sabbaticals by PoliticiansCharter Schools Area Education Agencies Funding

Cold – Not likely to pass this session:Judicial Impeachment Commercial taxes Penny for Natural Resources Curbside Recycling Immigration Hospital Errors Shopping for Health Insurance Gas Tax State-Funded LobbyistsTeacher ComplaintsTransition MoneyFeeding Wildlife

Your Guide to the 2011 Legislature 2011 session of the 84th General Assembly convened on January 10, 2011.


Legislative UpdateLegislative Leaders – Perspectives on the 2011 Legislative Session

1. Please explain your leadership role at the Capitol:Following the 2010 election I was elected by the caucus to serve as House Majority Whip. My responsibilities as Majority Whip include

working closely with the Majority Leader, Linda Upmeyer, to help manage the Republican Caucus and foresee legislative issues and proceedings through the process of legislation. In addition, I will be taking an aggressive leadership role in the recruitment of candidates and gearing up for House Republican elections in the future.

2. Your Predictions for the 2011 Session

A. Top Three Issues of the Session:BudgetMarriageCutting Government

B. Most controversial issue of the Session:Budget.

Iowa House Republicans campaigned on cutting government and reducing spending. Republicans immediately started planning and have created a bill that cuts $500 million from the Iowa budget. Cutting a budget is always difficult, however it is what we committed ourselves to when 60 House Republicans won election in November. It is a difficult conversation that must be had, and House Republicans are ready for the task.

C. Biggest surprise issue of the Session:One aspect that sets Iowa’s Legislature apart from other State Legislatures is our response from voters. Each

year voters contact their legislators to speak up about an issue or issues they believe need to be changed, it is impossible to predict what that may be on any given year.

3. Republicans control the House and the Governor’s Office, Democrats control the Senate – how is this mix going to influence the 2011 session? The campaigns are over and Iowan’s are ready for us to get back to work. There will obviously be differences in opinion, but the voters spoke in dramatic fashion in November and I believe both Democrats and Republicans heard their calls for less government and reduced spending.

4. We have heard many different opinions and perspectives in regard to the surplus or the deficit (depending upon who is giving the speech) please share your opinion on that topic. The other 59 House Republicans, Governor- Elect Branstad, and I all talked to the voters about the massive spending gap the Culver Administration left to us. The simple truth is, for the next fiscal year we are scheduled to spend more money then the state will bring in revenue. These calculations come from the non-partisan Legislative Services Agency. Considering the results and dramatic shift in Iowa’s government, I believe it’s safe to say the voters believe we are spending far more than we should, and at the end of the day the opinion that matters the most comes from Iowa voters.

5. There are a lot of new legislators, how will this impact the 2011 session? With so many new faces it will take a while to get acclimated, but new faces mean new ideas and this will be a wonderful addition to the dialogue.

6. Will the 2011 legislative session end early? Hard to say, the upcoming session will be my 9th session working in and around the State House. Out of those previous 8 sessions it has only adjourned early

one time. With the split control, there are some big philosophical divides to traverse in a compressed timeline.

7. Your top priorities for the upcoming session as an elected leader? It is imperative we get Iowa’s budget under control. Families and businesses cannot continually spend more than they bring in and expect to survive. The same is true for Iowa’s government. I look forward to the challenge but make no mistake it will be tough work.

I am also looking forward to working on Iowa’s business climate. Iowa is a wonderful place to raise a family and we need to make sure it is a wonderful place to do business and hire more Iowan’s. There is no silver bullet- it starts with property taxes, the state budget, and protecting Iowa’s Right to Work Law. This also means we need to take a long hard look at the regulatory environment. We are long over due for an honest discussion on the role of Iowa’s government in the everyday lives of Iowan’s and employers.

8. What can IMTA/trucking industry do to help you? Keep doing what you are doing. The IMTA and its members are a crucial part of the Iowa economy. All I can ask is that you keep moving the economy, hiring Iowan’s, and putting pressure on your State Government to let you succeed.

9. Closing comments? I sincerely thank the IMTA for all of the opportunities and support they have given me. I started my career as an intern for the IMTA and they have been there every step of the way. Over the years I have been privileged to meet some great friends from all over the state. These people have provided powerful examples of what Iowan’s are capable of when they unleash their work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit.

Rep. Erik HellandHouse Majority Whip


Legislative UpdateLegislative Leaders – Perspectives on the 2011 Legislative Session

Senator Tom RiellySenate Transportation Chair

Specific Responsibilities?Chair of Senate Transportation Committee, Vice Chair of Commerce Committee

1. Please explain your leadership role at the Capitol:I work hard with Republicans and

Democrats to find consensus on the key issues that will make Iowa a better place to work, play and raise a family.

2. Your Predictions for the 2011 Session A. Top Three Issues of the Session 1. Jobs 2. Jobs 3. Jobs and Balance Budget

B. Most controversial issue of the SessionWith a divided Legislature -- Republicans controlling the House and Democrats controlling the Senate – the most controversial issues will be anything that doesn’t have the support of a significant majority of Republicans AND Democrats in the Legislature.

C. Biggest surprise issue of the SessionI can’t wait to find out!

3. Republicans control the House and the Governor’s Office, Democrats control the Senate – how is this mix going to influence the 2011 session?With a Republicans controlling the House and Democrats controlling the Senate, everyone will need to take a step back, take a deep breath and work in a cooperative fashion if they want to get ANYTHING done this session.

4. We have heard many different opinions and perspectives in regard to

the surplus or the deficit (depending upon who is giving the speech) please share your opinion on that topic. The budget is balanced.

5. There are a lot of new legislators, how will this impact the 2011 session?I can’t wait to find out!

6. Will the 2011 legislative session end early?I hope so.

7. Your top priorities for the upcoming session as an elected leader?Balance the budget in 78 days

8. What can IMTA/trucking industry do to help you? I encourage your members to contact their Senators and Representatives early and often. The more we hear from you, the more we can do for you!

9. Closing comments?I look forward to my continued work with Iowa truckers and IMTA.

Your IMTA Government Relations TeamThis is the third session that Dave Scott has been serving as IMTA’s primary lobbyist. Dave has an impeccable 25+ year record as a lobbyist

and is quickly described by many as a “hardworking bulldog that gives 100% to representing the trucking industry.”

In representing the trucking industry, Dave is always calling on members and gaining information and insight from the membership. He praises the IMTA members for their willingness to get involved and get active in the process.

“The passion among the membership when it comes to their legislative issues and their

specific positions on various issues is really extraordinary. The folks that are involved in trucking are truly representative of the entrepreneurial spirit that drives the economy in a positive way,” said Dave.

Dave is up at the Capitol from dawn to dusk and his bipartisan reputation is respected by lawmakers and lobbyist alike. As a testament to Dave’s reputation at the Iowa Capitol, he is one of a few lobbyists that was inducted by the Iowa legislature into the Pioneer Lawmaker Association. The Pioneer Lawmaker Association was formed over 125 years ago and is for legislators who have served over 20 years in the Iowa legislature. From time to time, the group honors lobbyists to be inducted into the organization and David is one of small group that holds that distinction.

IMTA President Brenda NevilleIMTA President Brenda Neville plays an instrumental role in IMTA’s advocacy efforts by working with IMTA leaders in policy development and ultimately assisting with efforts at the Capitol to ensure IMTA’s interests are covered and protected. While

Dave is the day to day person at the Capitol, Brenda is frequently called in to meet with legislative leaders and wave the flag for IMTA’s long list of issues.

“Dave and I talk on numerous occasions throughout the day and depending on the issue, I may be at the Capitol every day or once a week. Because of the work we do throughout the year, I have good working relationships with legislators and as well as the legislative leadership so we always have the access we need to communicate with them on issues of importance.

IMTA monitors a number of legislative bills and committee work. IMTA is also a member of a number of coalition groups representing a wide scope of issues.

“Trucking is a valuable business to Iowa so we monitor trucking issues as well as any issue or proposal that may impact our ability to business,” said Brenda.

IMTA will once again be hosting “IMTA Day at the Capitol events” as well as lunches with legislators and other activities that will enable IMTA members to get involved.

Dave ScottIMTA Lobbyist


National Update

Hours of ServiceThe proposed changes to Hours of Service (HOS) were released on December 23rd and have caused quite a stir throughout the entire trucking industry. The proposed rule which outlines significant changes to the current mode of operation, were a result of a settlement FMCSA reached with advocacy groups that sued in federal court to block FMCSA’s revision on HOS. The advocacy groups sued on two different occasions and have been extremely aggressive in their efforts to get changes to the driving times. The groups that are behind the lawsuits are comprised of labor and advocacy groups that have various agendas against the trucking industry.

The newly released proposal would restrict drivers’ ability to restart their weekly work cycle with a 34-hour rest period. Interpretations of this change indicate the potential to substantially reduce the total work cycle for that driver.

The new rule also reduces driving time to 10 hours from the current 11 hour rule.

FMCSA has said that under the new rule, the reset, which enables drivers to restart their weekly cycle after a 34-hour break would not change. However, trucking experts say that is not the case at all and under the new proposal, the 34 hour reset break must include two six-hour rest periods between 6:00 AM and midnight. Industry experts interpret the change to reflect almost 48 hours of off duty time for the drivers.

Another concern is that the new proposal focuses on driver health and that there is an implication within the rule that with more time off, a driver will be able to adopt habits that will make them healthier. There are other wellness and

health implications within the proposal that has brought criticism from various industry experts.

With any new rule change, the agency must take comments from the public for 60 days and then the agency must review all the comments and is expected to make a final ruling in late July. There is indication by ATA that there will be at least five listening sessions across the nation with locations and dates hopefully released in the next several weeks. In January of 2010, a listening session was held in Davenport that lasted over 8 hours and hundreds and thousands of comments and written comments were filed as well the last go around. There were five listening sessions held then too. The vast majority of the comments that were filed supported the current HOS rules and asked for even greater flexibility given the quality of equipment that is now being operated within the trucking industry.

The 30 page filing in the Federal Register on the proposed changes has been reviewed by many experts and the general consensus is that the changes will have an adverse effect on the industry overall. The American Trucking Association (ATA) is blasting the proposed changes and leading a charge to retain the current rules.

“When viewed against trucking’s sterling safety record, it’s plain that the Obama administration’s willingness to break something that’s not broken likely has everything to do with politics and little or nothing to do with highway safety or driver health,” said Bill Graves, president of the ATA.

With three years of dramatically improved safety statistics for the trucking

industry and the outpouring of support for the current rules in the last round of listening sessions, owners, drivers and others are frustrated with the proposed changes and what seems to be an ongoing campaign of overreach and oversight by the government.

“I was very disappointed with the proposed changes and feel as though there is a hidden agenda here that has nothing to do with a concern for safety and everything to do with hurting the productivity of the trucking industry,” said IMTA Chairman of the Board, Mike Riggan.

The groups that are behind the lawsuits are comprised of labor and advocacy groups that have various agendas against the trucking industry.

Proposed changes to Hours of Service


National UpdateSince the rules were released on December 23rd, IMTA has been inundated with feedback from members and none of it is positive. “I think the members are frustrated because this comes on the heels of the CSA implementation and after the last two years that this industry has endured, many folks were just really just starting to see some minor improvements and now these major changes are introduced. There is tremendous cost associated with all of this and the vast majority of the calls we have received from the members’ relayed anger and frustration,” said IMTA President Brenda Neville.

IMTA leaders are in the process of developing a plan of action and making information and materials available to the members. ATA is spearheading a campaign to flood the docket with comments and is urging the trucking industry to “unleash” the power it has by the shear number of people that are employed by the industry. There is a website that offers valuable information on the proposed rules and also highlights the changes www.safedriverhours.com

“All state associations have been asked to get on board and help activate an effective grassroots campaign within their state. As a part of this campaign, we are hoping to motivate all segments of the industry to get involved and participate in an effort to overturn this proposal. We are hopeful that owners, drivers, office staff, maintenance professionals, dispatchers and even suppliers will review the proposal and take the time to submit their comments,” said Brenda Neville.

IMTA will be releasing information pertaining to the HOS Action Plan to it entire membership. The Iowa Council of Safety Management will also be assisting with the effort.

FMCSA FINAL RULE - RULE COMPARISON CHART

Created December 2010

© 2010 American Trucking Associations, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction or retransmission, whether in print or any electronic format, is prohibited without the express written consent of American Trucking Associations, Inc.

FMCSA’s CURRENT HOS RULE FMCSA’s PROPOSED HOS RULE

December 2010

All Property Carrying Drivers and Motor

Carriers


Carriers

Minimum Off-

Duty Hours

Between Shifts

10 consecutive hours Same as current rule.

Total On-Duty

Window in Each

Shift

14 consecutive hours

Significant Changes - 14 consecutive hours

with release from duty required at end of

driving window; Only 13 hours of the 14

hour window are productive work due to new

“rest break” requirements described below; 14

hours window is extendable to 16 hours twice

a week to accommodate for issues such as

loading and unloading at terminals or ports,

however, drivers are still limited to 13 hours

on-duty. Total Hours

(On-Duty+Off-

Duty+Rest)

24 hours 24-26 hours

Maximum Driving

Hours

Limit on

Consecutive Hours

Driving

11

None

10 hours of maximum driving time

and 11 hours of maximum driving time are

proposed for comment; FMCSA’s “currently

preferred option” is 10 hours.

May drive only if it has been 7 hours or less

since last off-duty or sleeper berth period of at

least 30 minutes

Mandatory Rest

Break During Shift None

At least 60 minutes of rest break time during

each On-Duty Window; may be taken in one

block or broken up into two 30 minute rest

breaks

Maximum

Cumulative On-

Duty

60 hours in 7 days

70 hours in 8 days*

(*for carriers that operate 7 days a week)

Same as current rule.

FMCSA FINAL RULE - RULE COMPARISON CHART

Created December 2010

© 2010 American Trucking Associations, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction or retransmission, whether in print or any electronic format, is prohibited without the express written consent of American Trucking Associations, Inc.

FMCSA’s CURRENT HOS RULE FMCSA’s PROPOSED HOS RULE

December 2010


Carriers


Carriers

Cumulative On-

Duty “Restart”

Voluntary:

34 consecutive hours off-duty resets a

drivers cumulative on-duty back to zero (or

restarts a drivers 60 hour weekly clock) at

any point in a driver’s 7 day cycle

Voluntary:

The length of the restart period is variable

since it must include two consecutive off-duty

periods from midnight to 6:00 a.m. Drivers

would be allowed to use this restart only once

during a seven-day period.

Sleeper Berth:

Splitting Off-Duty

Time

Team and Solo Drivers:

2 periods totaling > 10 hours; 1 period must

be at least 8 hours in the sleeper berth;

second period of time may be spent either

in or out of the sleeper berth.

Same as current rule

On-Board

Recorders

Voluntary Use

Same as current rule.

Federal Exceptions

& Exemptions

All existing exemptions and exceptions

remain.

Slightly modified Oilfield exemption, and

removed 16 hour provision in 395.1(o).

FMCSA Final Rule

Rule Comparison Chart


You Benefit From This PartnershipA portion of the revenue from your purchase

supports your State Trucking Association. PC 33153

Now that CSA is here, FMCSA is using your fleet’ssafety performance data to decide if you’ll receive a warning letter.

And that could lead to some “interesting” feedbacklanding on your desk. Unless you turn to J. J. Keller.

As the industry’s safety & compliance experts, no

company is better qualified to help you avoidwarning letters and other interventions.

Plus, we have the most complete line of productsand services available, making it easy to get exactlywhat you need to succeed under CSA.

So contact J. J. Keller before FMCSA contacts you.

call: 888-601-2019 click: jjkeller.com/CSAeasy

PRODUCTS • TRAINING • CONSULTING • OUTSOURCING • ONLINE TOOLS


Legal Update

Rick HoweHowe, Cunningham,Lowe & Kelso

Developments in theTrucking Industry

Tracking Federal Highway Administration proposals, Congressional legislation and developments in other states will help us prepare for issues we may face in the future. The following questions will

test your knowledge of a few of these issues. A score of 5 or more is excellent.

1. New Hours of Service rules will likely cut driving time to 10 hours and increase restart time from 34 to 40 hours or more

A. TrueB. False

Answer: True - Numerous groups from ATA to shipper associations believe this is the likely outcome.

2. A pilot program authorizing trucks up to 100,000 pounds to run on interstate highways in Maine and Vermont expired 12/16/10 and the administration is supporting making the provision permanent. Permanent exemptions currently exist in what states?

A. Washington and OregonB. Mississippi and Louisiana C. Massachusetts, New Hampshire and New York

Answer: MASSACHUSETTS, NEW HAMPSHIRE AND NEW YORK

3. The “Motor Carrier Protection Act of 2010” was introduced June 11, 2010 and requires a minimum bond for brokers in what amount?

A. $ 10,000B. $250,000C. $100,000

Answer: - $100,000The current requirement is $10,000. The proposed required is $100,000.

4. Oregon’s ton mile tax was increased by an average of what percentage effective October 1, 2010?

A. 3%B. 5%C. 24.5%

Answer: 24.5% - A 5-axle truck weighing 80,000 pounds will pay 16.92 cents per mile vs. 13.16 cents prior to the increase.

5. Can federal highway require a carrier to install electronic onboard recorders?

A. NoB. Yes

Answer: Yes - A rule issued earlier this year authorizes Federal Highway to require carriers with a rate of 10% or more hours of service violations identified in a compliance review to install EOBR.

6. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has ruled that it is illegal for New Jersey , New York City and Cook County, IL to:

A. Ban trucks during rush hour periodsB. Require trucks to carry or display state decals or other forms of identificationC. Operate on certain two lane highways

Answer: Require trucks to carry or display state decals or other forms of identification - The 2005 Highway Reauthorization Law prohibits states or local governments from requiring motor carriers to display any form of identification other than forms required by the U.S. Secretary of Transportation.

7. The Administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration in discussing the agency’s commitment to addressing issues relating to driver health stated that the life span of truck drivers was less than the average American by how many years?

A. 4.2B. 9C. 16

Answer: 16 - One area of focus for the new driver health regulations will be to insure the accuracy of medical examinations by having them transmitted electronically.

8. The Bipartisan Presidential Commission of Deficit Reduction has recommended that the federal fuel tax be increased by how much beginning in 2013?

A. 4 centsB. 15 centsC. 75 cents

Answer: 15 cents - The debt commission’s recommendation would dedicate all revenues to the highway fund. Other proposals pending in congress would utilized a portion of the increase for other uses.

9. Which state registers the most truck tractors?

A. IowaB. OhioC. South Dakota

Answer: Iowa - The Actual figures are:- Iowa (59,394)- Ohio (42,662)- South Dakota (19,183)

10. What form of tax has been used by several states to generate revenue from out of state carriers?

A. Value Added TaxB. Income or Business TaxC. Trailer Utilization Tax

Answer: Income or Business Tax - An expanding source of tax revenue in recent years has been to impose an income or business tax on carriers that have a sufficient connection or “nexus” with a state. This is frequently done on the number of carrier miles and/or pickups and deliveries within the state.

Rick Howe serves as managing partner of Howe, Cunningham, Lowe & Kelso law firm in Des Moines. He has written for trucking publications and has served as an expert witness in litigation involving transportation issues.


Many people associate “Green” in their company name with being environmentally friendly because corncobs are all-natural and renewable. Others think it is linked to the origin in the alfalfa dehydration business when they made pellets from alfalfa for animal feed. The fact is Clifford Green founded a family-owned company in 1947.

When the company first opened its doors more than half a century ago, Green Products employed 10-12 employees working two shifts. Les Green, 81, son of the founder, still plays a role in the company’s operation.

In the 1970’s things started to change for Green Products. The first significant change occurred when Jerry Schryver, the general manager, bought the company in 1971. Green Products is still family-owned, but it is now owned by brothers Mathew and Russell Schryver.

In the early 1980’s, the company entered the long-haul trucking business. They used tractor-trailers to become more efficient transporting fresh-cut alfalfa to the plant during the summer months and did contract hauling during the off seasons. After experimenting with using corncobs as a bio-fuel for drying the alfalfa, the company transformed itself into a corncob processing operation in the mid-80’s.

The transformation proved to be a wise move for their business. Milled corncobs

are absorbent and abrasive and they have a multitude of applications in lawn care, metal finishing and animal bedding and litter markets. As the company expanded, so too did their trucking operation. Twenty-five years later, Green Products Company is an industry leader and a worldwide supplier of milled corncob products.

Today the company’s trucking division operates a fleet of 45 semi-tractor trailers, and includes:

• 20 Convertible Hopper Bottom Trailers

• 14 Walking Floor Trailers

• 7 Hopper Bottom Trailers

• 6 Van Trailers

• 5 Reefer Trailers

Carrier Spotlight

Green Products Company

By: Travis ScottContributing Writer

Green Products Company was founded by Clifford Green in 1947.

Green Products Company is preparing to knock cob pile down to enable processing.

Processed cob product is being unloaded at Green Products Co. facility.


Carrier Spotlight

The organization now employs about 90 people and more than half of them are involved with the trucking side of the business which operates in the 48 contiguous states and parts of Canada.

In effort to help manage their growing fleet they recently adopted the use of PeopleNet Performance.

“The transition to PeopleNet, a mobile communications and onboard computing technology, has been a great resource for all of us – and helps the business in many aspects,” said Brenda Fink, Office Assistant. Brenda also admits that while switching to PeopleNet has made many things easier for their

business, the transition was a little tricky. “I relied on the

Association a lot during

the transition,” Brenda laughs.

“I think I was on the phone with

the Association almost every day.”

The company has been with IMTA

since early on its trucking endeavor. Brenda and Jerry Sanderson, Safety

Milled corncobs are absorbent and abrasive and they have a multitude of applications in lawn care, metal finishing and animal bedding and litter markets.

Green Products Company Plant

Trucks are being weighed at an on-site truck scale location.

Green Products Company truck unloading cobs.

Green Products Co. Truck Shop in Conrad, IA


Director, both admit that they continue to lean on the association for managing their relationship with the DOT, and making sure Green Products Company is up to speed on all CSA regulations. Additionally, Brenda has been regularly taking part in the Association’s seminars and continued education opportunities.

The company’s transition to PeopleNet demonstrates the organization’s dedication to keeping up on all the latest trends to ensure safety and efficiency. It is the company’s ongoing focus on its clients and high standards for quality that has led them to be an industry leader and a worldwide supplier in their industry.

Carrier Spotlight

Trucks back in and unload their trailer of cobs.

Green Products Company processed cob product is available in 3 sizes 40# brown bag, 1000# or 2000# totes.

A view of cobs being unloaded

It is the company’s ongoing focus on its clients and high standards for quality that has led them to be an industry leader and a worldwide supplier in their industry.


$75/person - Premium Admission

$50/person - Regular Admission

– includes dinner, prizes and boxing! *Personal checks to Truck PAC Iowa Please

Embassy Suites on the River Locust Des Moines, Iowa • 6:00 PM reception/dinner • 7:00 PM Boxing Night Begins

*All proceeds go to Iowa Truck PAC

Corporate Sponsorships Available

For more information contact: Iowa Motor Truck Association(515) 244-5193

We are bringing back the “Capitol Club” lunches….for decades, IMTA would sponsor luncheons throughout the legislative session where IMTA members could join us for lunch and an update from a legislator. We will be extending invitations to legislators that are serve on key committees of importance to our issues. We have extended invitations to several legislators and will update the list as we secure lawmakers.

$25/person/lunch – personal check to Truck PAC Iowa *All proceeds will go to Iowa Truck PAC

Come and enjoy lunch with a legislator on the following dates:12:15 – 1:30 PM at the IMTA office

Tuesday, February 8 Tuesday, March 8Tuesday, February 15 Tuesday, March 29 Tuesday, March 1

To register please call (515)244-5193or register online atwww.iowamotortruck.com

Capitol Club & Boxing Night

Capitol Club Luncheons

All proceeds go to Iowa Truck PAC Corporate Sponsorships Available

For more information contact: Iowa Motor Truck Association

Annual2nd

Truck PAC Iowa Boxing Night Thursday, February 24, 2011


State

Truckingof the

Industry

Perspectives from Trucking Leaders

“Everyone has a different opinion as to where the industry has been and where it is going, but one thing does remain certain, trucks are always going to be needed.” IMTA Chairman Mike Riggan

The State of theTrucking IndustryFor the last two years, there has been continual speculation as to what was happening in the trucking industry. Economists, bankers, stock brokers, speculators, news commentators and even trucking company owners themselves all had a different opinion as to what was happening in the trucking industry. The heightened awareness and interest in the “state of the trucking industry” was because the trucking industry is considered an accurate barometer of what is really happening in the economy. In fact, on one of the popular morning talk shows, more than one economist would hint to the audience that they needed to be paying attention to the truck traffic to really see what is going on in the economy. “Just spend an hour on an interstate highway and see what the truck traffic is like and you will be able to determine quite quickly as to how the economy is doing,” the TV commentator quipped.

Governor Bill Graves, President and CEO of the American Trucking Industry summarized it quite eloquently in his traditional State of the Industry speech at the 2010 ATA Management Conference, “the state of the industry is best described like beauty right now, it is truly in the eyes of the beholder. Everyone in trucking is viewing the challenges and opportunities through a very different set of eyes.”

IMTA Chairman Mike Riggan summarized it in somewhat the same manner as he addressed the audience at the IMTA Management Conference, “everyone has a different opinion as to where the industry has been and where it is going, but one thing does remain certain, trucks are always going to be needed.”

So it remains….the million dollar question continues to be “What is the state of the trucking industry?” I think most folks in the trucking industry can agree that there has certainly been some definite improvement but beyond that, there is an array of answers to that question. In a survey of 35 Iowa trucking owners, 31 of them reported that if they looked at raw numbers from November

FEATURE

Mike RigganTanTara Transportation Corp.


Perspectives from Trucking Leaders2009 and November 2010, there has been improvement but the rate of that improvement has continued to be slow. Most of the same owners also described their view on the industry’s recovery as cautiously “optimistic”. The same group summarized the last six months as “scrapping the bottom and merely hanging on”.

“I would say that 99% of the trucking companies have changed dramatically over the last two years, we have survived some pretty rough years and have learned to operate in a different manner. We are a much different industry than we were a couple years ago. The business model has changed tremendously and it will be interesting to see how we continue to operate going forward,” said Bob Kohlwes, 2010 IMTA Chairman of the Board and Vice President of BTI Special Commodities, a flatbed operation in Des Moines.

“I would have been embarrassed three years ago to have the numbers I have today but compared to where I was a year ago, my numbers are much better and for that I am grateful. I guess I have had to change my outlook and my standards, but I am still very hopeful that we will get back to where I think we are really doing well as a company. I have basically been in a survival mode over the last two years and breaking even had become the new norm,” said one respondent.

So is the worst behind us? The last two years have been summarized by many as the worst recession that many of us have experienced in our lifetimes. And some economists believe that recovery has begun. The political gridlock that was prevalent in our nation’s capitol caused an uproar and activism movement unlike anything we have seen in decades. The growing list of states that were plummeting into deficit situations only added to the uncertainty and fear among consumers everywhere and fueled reactionary movements that proved to be pretty effective if you review the results of the recent November elections and the message that was sent at all levels of government. The crisis in the real estate market, both residential and commercial is said to be

far from over and even as unemployment continues to be at record levels throughout the nation, optimism seems to be spilling over into these areas too. “The American people are very resilient, very proud, very strong and very effective in letting their voice be heard when they are pushed in a corner,” said a voter on national TV as he was exiting a polling site.

In the trucking industry, many prominent leaders have said that we are now facing some of the most significant changing times since deregulation in the early 1980s. CSA, Hours of Service, Clean Truck Models, Electronic logging, Fuel efficiency standards, alternative fuels, pay packages for drivers, freight capacity issues…the list of issues that are now facing the industry is greater than any time in the history of trucking.

For those that were contemplating exiting the industry by selling their company or passing it on to a beloved family member, those strategies have been “dramatically altered” as the last two years pushed the values of many trucking companies to lower levels and set back many succession plans by an average of 5 years. “I am not even sure I want my children to have to take on this responsibility anymore, while I want to remain optimistic and always wanted to leave them something of value that they could maybe pass on to their children as well, I am not sure a trucking company is the way to go. Instead of an opportunity, I may only be giving them a tremendous burden,” said one IMTA member at a recent member outreach meeting.

“I think there is some renewed hope in the trucking industry but the regulatory environment is of grave concern to everyone as are several other issues that are looming on the horizon; possible driver shortage, continued capacity issues, fuel volatility and an ongoing frustration with the rate structure. All of these factors are on the minds of the owners and prevents them from being overly optimistic that we are out of the woods,” said IMTA President Brenda Neville.

ATA Economist Bob Costello recently said that he believes the next two years will be some of the best years this industry has ever seen and former ATA Chairman and Titan Transfer Inc.owner Tommy Hodges agrees. “I think we are on the verge of seeing the best period of operation that we have seen in many years. The trucks that have been taken out of the system, resulting in reduced capacity will make it a trucker’s market in the very near term future. I think we will eventually have more business than we can handle.”

Summary:For decades, there has been a phrase that has been commonly used in describing the trucking industry and it seems that it continues to be the most descriptive, “There is only one certainty in trucking and that is change…things are constantly changing” and how this industry reacts to those changes is really the barometer to how the trucking industry is doing….so stay tuned.

The business model has changed tremendously and it will be interesting to see how we continue to operate going forward,” said Bob Kohlwes.

Bob KohlwesBTI Special Commodities


Perspectives from Iowa Trucking Leaders

Ralph ArthurIMTA Board MemberRuan Transportat ion Management Systems

1. How would you summarize the state of the trucking industry at this point in time?Business levels have improved but everyone has a wary eye on first quarter. Government regulations have everyone nervous about ’11.

2. Your prediction as to where the industry will be in six months? Little change from today.

3. Three words to describe the current state of the trucking industry?Positive, fragile, anxious. A bit like paranoid schizophrenia.

4. Biggest obstacles our industry is facing?Uncle Sam.

Mike RigganIMTA ChairmanTanTara Transportat ion, Corp.

1. How would you summarize the state of the trucking industry at this point in time?

The industry is in a state of FLUX. Constant change in a Dysfunctional Government are holding the economy hostage. We are looking at what should be some of the best years ever, for our industry, yet are unable or afraid to REINVEST in our industry.

2. Your prediction as to where the industry will be in six months?In 6 months our industry will be on a VIGOROUS growth path. Companies will be vying for drivers and new equipment at any

cost, I’m afraid. Proper rate levels will be the order of the day. The Government will see the folly of their ways.

3. Three words to describe the current state of the trucking industry?Uncertain; Optimistic; Recovery

4. Biggest obstacles our industry is facing?Government regulation, driver shortages like never before, lack of infrastructure investment.

5. Additional thoughts or quotes?If we are to continue to feed and clothe the people of this nation we have to reinvest in our roads and bridges. Our nation has been derelict in this duty and it must change course quickly. The main duty of the Federal Government is to protect the people this cannot be done without a solid infrastructure. Gas Tax Increase NOW.

Perspectives from Iowa Trucking LeadersBrian GeorgeIMTA Board MemberGTL Transportat ion, Inc.

1. How would you summarize the state of the trucking industry at this point in time? Survival of the fittest

2. Your prediction as to where the industry will be in six months?Same as now but with a more severe driver shortage. I think

there will be a serious fight for qualified drivers driving up wages and benefit costs.

3. Three words to describe the current state of the trucking industry?1) Depressed2) Over regulated3) Misunderstood

4. Biggest obstacles our industry is facing?1) Driver shortage: lack of qualified people or persons willing to drive OTR2) Too many and or too restrictive government regulations3) Fluctuating fuel costs

5. Additional thoughts or quotes?I think the trucking industry will be forced to rethink the way we do business. We will restructure operating procedures to fit regulations and our available work force. Shippers with unrealistic demands will find it difficult to get carriers.

George CrouseIMTA TreasurerCrouse Transportat ion Services, LLC

1. How would you summarize the state of the trucking industry at this point in time?In a termoil because of regulations and restrictions

2. Your prediction as to where the industry will be in six months?Fewer carriers and less available equipment

3. Three words to describe the current state of the trucking industry?Where is profitibility

4. Biggest obstacles our industry is facing?Higher fuel prices, Higher equipment replacement costs, Lower rates, Unknown federal regulations in our industry. Driver shortage.

5. Additional thoughts or quotes?Unless we can be more profitable to give drivers more compensation we will lose a lot of drivers because of the new regulations. Most don’t want the hassle and unknown of new regulations. Politically we need to push for new regulations to make driver lives more comfortable. This would include driver delay at shipper and consignee’s so they have ample time to do their job. Without drivers it doesn’t make any difference how many trucks we have.



Perspectives from National Trucking Leaders

Barbara WindsorATA Chairman of the BoardHahn Transportat ion, Inc.

1. How would you summarize the state of the trucking industry at this point in time? “Recovery” from difficult times would best summarize the trucking industry in December 2010.

2. Your prediction as to where the industry will be in six months?The Economic outlook for 2011 is flat the first quarter with increase

in freight movement as the year progresses. Optimistic-additional freight by next year this time.

3. Three words to describe the current state of the trucking industry?Recovery, Cautious, Optimistic

4. Biggest obstacles our industry is facing?The biggest obstacles are now the unknowns: HOS, Driver Shortage, CSA 2010, Fuel price increases.

5. Additional thoughts or quotes? America needs trucks to move our products daily. We cannot be outsourced. We carry life essentials: food, clothing, medicines on and on. I am proud to be involved in such a vital industry!

Dan EnglandATA Firs t Vice ChairmanC.R. England, Inc.

1. How would you summarize the state of the trucking industry at this point in time?“Baby-Steps” Slowly, but surely the industry is regaining momentum as demand is on

the increase and capacity is largely stagnant.

2. Your prediction as to where the industry will be in six months?It is my opinion that the “baby-steps” will turn into “confident strides” as consumer confidence returns, shippers respond with increased production and capacity tightens.

3. Three words to describe the current state of the trucking industry?Worn-out, Cautious, Optimistic

4. Biggest obstacles the industry is facing?a. Revision of Hours of Service rules.b. CSA 2010c. Greater driver shortages in the wake of the above regulationsd. Attempted reclassification of Independent Contractors.e. Continued increases in the cost of equipment.f. California’s hostile business environment.g. Aggressive Plaintiff’s lawyers

5. Additional thoughts or quotes? In the movie “Parenthood”, the grandma said the following: “When I was nineteen, Grandpa took me on a roller coaster...up, down, up down. Oh what a ride!...You know, it was just so interesting to me that a ride could make me so frightened, so scared, so sick, so excited, and so thrilled all together! Some didn’t like it. They went on the merry-go-round. That just goes around. Nothing. I like the roller coaster. You get more out of it”

This quote embodies my feelings about trucking.

Steve WilliamsMaverick USA

1. How would you summarize the state of the trucking industry at this point in time?There has been

significant reduction trucking capacity over the last 3 years as carriers have downsized their fleets or simply gone out of business. For those that remain, many are upside down on their equipment debt and are carrying negative balance sheets. Since many fleets will not be able to finance new equipment they are saddled with much higher maintenance cost which only exacerbates the problem.

2. Your prediction as to where the industry will be in six months?After license plate and insurance renewals

there will be another wave of closures which will further reduce capacity. Some of this will take the form of consolidation but due to the tremendous exodus of drivers due to demographic changes and CSA 2010…those that are still standing will find it much more expensive to find, train and retain drivers going forward.

3. Three words to describe the current state of the trucking industry?State of change

4. Biggest obstacles our industryis facing?- 14 Hour Rule- CSA 2010- Availability of drivers- Balance sheet strength

5. Additional thoughts or quotes?We have entered the Next Chapter in Trucking. The Deregulated Era which began 30 years ago will be replaced by The Generation of CSA 2010. The mandated use of EOBRs and the 14 Hour Rule will “re-define” the supply chain in the USA.

Perspectives from National Trucking Leaders

Tommy HodgesATA Immediate Past ChairmanTi tan Transfer, Inc.

1. How would you summarize the state of

the trucking industry at this point in time?The trucking industry, while still challenged with acceptable profits, is on the verge of seeing it’s best period of operation that we have seen in many years. The trucks taken out of the system, resulting in reduced capacity will make it a trucker’s market in the very near term future. Inventory levels are at low levels which indicate that when consumers begin to buy more aggressively it will have to be shipped and almost all consumer goods are handled by truck. The biggest issue facing the industry today is the impending driver shortage. The regulations work against us, the demographics work against us and the nature of the job work against us, so we as an industry are going to have to come up with some solutions that aren’t in place today to attract and retain a new group of drivers. This will be job one for the industry as we begin to have more loads than we have human capital to handle.

2. Your prediction as to where the industry will be in six months?We will have more business than we can handle and the most valuable asset that we will have will be an empty trailer with a rested driver ready to run. We will be thinking about adding to our fleets, and will have the ability to do it, but will be constrained by the drivers that our companies will be able to attract.

3. Three words to describe the current state of the trucking industry? Getting Better Slowly

4. Biggest obstacles our industry is facing? Increasing regulation on all fronts; shortages of qualified and competent human capital: Inadequate infrastructure: customers who don’t understand their impact on our ability to provide the type and quality service they demand; rising costs that we have no control over, such as; fuel, tires, taxes.

5. Additional thoughts or quotes?While one could easily think that our problems will overwhelm us, I think just the opposite. We have paid a severe price over the last three years and over 5400 trucking companies did not make it through this period, but it sets the stage for what I think will be the best years that the industry has seen.



Reacting to CSAUtilize Iowa Truck Services to Assist Your Operation

CSA is here.In late December, CSA information was made public and this long anticipated program was now very “real”!

As calls began to pour in, IMTA staff made every effort first and foremost, to offer assistance and guidance to members as they devised a plan of action to address their areas of deficiencies.

How IMTA Can HelpThe IMTA understands CSA is a radical change for the entire trucking industry and that it might take some time for carriers to adjust to the new standards. The association has been very mindful of this since CSA was first proposed, and the IMTA has spent the last few years building its Iowa Truck Services division to help support members and non-members of all types and sizes.

Through Iowa Truck Services, the IMTA can assist any carrier that is reacting to an FMCSA intervention (warning letter or investigation) or wanting to establish a proactive prevention process. Dedicated staff is already in place to provide a unique set of skills that are unmatched by any other service provider, which includes:

• CSA Management and Training: ITS will sum-marize CSA, review the carrier’s profile and rating, and outline the importance of the new Safety Measurement System for car-riers and drivers. The majority of the time will be spent identifying best practices and offering proactive action plans as needed.

• Half-Day Mock Audit: This in-house regu-latory audit, which lasts 2-3 hours, is an overview of the carrier’s processes. In-cluded with it is a safety and compliance update reviewing all the latest regulations impacting the trucking industry.

• Full-Day Mock Audit: While the half-day au-dit browses through the carrier’s processes, the full-day audit dives directly into them with a comprehensive review that lasts 4-6 hours. It also includes a safety and compli-ance update.

• Safety Training: These meetings can be cus-tomized to the carrier’s specific needs, but suggested topics include driver safety, man-agement training and regulatory training.

• Corrective Action Planning: Whether it’s a persistent issue or an unexpected incident that is damaging to your operation, contact Iowa Truck Services to help implement a plan that can satisfy any regulatory agency before they ever step foot in your business.

Be Proactive, Not ReactiveBecause the data used in CSA is refreshed monthly, no carrier should feel comfortable with its BASICs ratings. There will always be a certain percentage of carriers above threshold and, as carriers on alert lower their scores below threshold, new carriers will rise above if they do not consistently work to maintain a safe and efficient operation.

Even if a carrier feels it is doing all the right things, unforeseen circumstances or accidents can quickly take a BASICs rating above threshold. In these situations, it is best to already have policies and procedures in place so a potential FMCSA intervention can be easily managed.

Iowa Truck Services can be valuable in this aspect if an operation does not have safety personnel in place to assist with these proactive measures. Even if a carrier does, it doesn’t hurt to have a trusted, unbiased outside organization such as ITS come in to review matters.

Visit www.iowatruckservices.com to capture everything Iowa Truck Services has to offer, or call 515-244-5193 to arrange a consultation.

Iowa Truck Services-CSA

“Iowa Truck Services helped us improve our processes in order to get our safety rating upgraded. They were quick to respond to our needs, and their work with us was a key element in helping our operation remain compliant with the regulations.”

KJ and Molly Hueneman Hueneman Farms, L.C.

Here to help you take the fear out of CSA


Members in the News

Consolidated Metco, IncGranger, IA

Ince’s TowingKewanee, IL

Iowa Nebraska Equipment Dealers AssociationWest Des Moines, IA

Jim Hawk Truck-Trailers, Inc.Sioux City, IA

Prairie Farms DairyDubuque, IA

The Hoffman AgencyMapleton, IA

Vander Kooi, Inc.Merrill, IA

“These new members have demonstrated their dedication to the industry by joining the IMTA. The more members we have the stronger our voice. Thank you for your support.”

Mike Spalla,IMTA Membership Manager

Mike Spalla,Membership Manager

IMTA’s Newest Members

Welcome New Members!

A Long Time Supporter of the IMTA and the Trucking Industry Retires

For over 25 years Lowell Grunwald has been a strong supporter of the Trucking Industry and many of those years he has also been an active member of the Iowa Motor Truck Association. Lowell spent 19 years with Jerico Services in Indianola, Iowa.

Lowell said that there were many reasons to be an IMTA member but his top three reasons were; Information on current rules & regulations, Information on pending new regulations, and Networking. Lowell encourages others to be involved… “If you are going to be a member be an active member,” Lowell commented.

Lowell and his wife Sharon have a plan for their retirement time which includes some traveling. In the near future they would like to travel to Italy and Western Europe. Along with these trips, they also plan to visit their grand children in Arkansas.

The Iowa Motor Truck Association would like to congratulate Lowell on his retirement. Enjoy your travels and don’t forget to visit us from time to time.

Todd Bunting,TMC Receives RecognitionTodd Bunting, Vice President of Safety for TMC Transportation

was recently recognized by the National Safety Council for implementing a Driver Defensive Driving course. TMC has a nationally recognized driver training course that includes a day of defensive driving, load securement test and then different types of training depending upon the driver’s level of experience. “The orientation programs vary for each type of driver based on his level of experience and it is has allowed TMC to maintain a very low reportable accident percentage as well as a very high claim free delivery percentage,” said Todd. TMC Transportation is a flatbed operation headquartered in Des Moines

Lowell Grunwald

Lowell enjoyed many IMTA activities and was a regular at association golf outings. “I’ll always like the atmosphere at the outings, it was a great network-ing opportunity,” said Lowell. Pictured here with L-R: Jim O’Halloran Jr., O’Halloran International, Lowell Grunwald, Dick Dearborn, Cummins Central Power, Mark Olson, Olson Explosives, Inc.

Todd BuntingTMC Transporation


Members in the News

800-247-2514 515-981-5115

(Fax) 515-981-0923 PO Box 337

Norwalk, IA 50211

www.dmtb.com

Don Egli, IMTA Director of Safety Named to National Truck Driving Championships Committee

IMTA Director of Safety was recently elected to serve on the National Truck Driving Championships (NTDC) Committee. The NTDC Committee which operates under the authority

of the American Trucking Associations Management Council, establishes polices and rules that govern the operations of the State and National Truck driving Championship programs. The committee also provides advisory assistance to the state trucking associations as they plan their respective events.

The committee only allows two to three state trucking associations to sit on the committee with the balance of the committee comprised of carrier members and ATA staff. Currently Colorado and North Carolina are the only other two state trucking associations that have individuals on the committee.

“We are extremely pleased that Don will have the opportunity to serve in this capacity. The Truck Driving Championships are very important here in Iowa and IMTA committed several years ago to be active and involved at the national level. Don has illustrated his commitment to the program and has served as a volunteer at the national level for many years. Don has played an integral role in making the Iowa TDC such an outstanding event and his expertise will be of great value at the national level as well. It is nice that he is receiving recognition for that support by being named to the national committee and we are very proud of this

accomplishment,” said IMTA President Brenda Neville.

As a member of the national committee Don will participate in the planning meetings which include policy and rulemaking activities prior to the national event and then he will have an even higher profile role at the actual event. The 2011 Championships will be held in Orlando, Florida in August.

The Iowa Truck Driving Championships Committee will be chaired by Dan Gardner with Wal-Mart Transportation and will be held on June 10th and 11th at the Iowa Speedway in Newton.

Sioux City manager appointed to Peterbilt Service CouncilService Manager Harland Gylfe at

Peterbilt of Sioux City was recently named to the Peterbilt Service Council for a three-year term. Harland now represents the Great Lakes Region on the committee of truck service experts from the US and Canada.

The service council members help Peterbilt Motors Corp. and its more than 250 dealers in North America improve service quality.

Harland was selected to this important advisory role because he is well-known in the trucking industry for his expertise in servicing work

trucks. In 2009, he won Regional Service Manager of Excellence. Under his leadership in 2007, Peterbilt of Sioux City received the “TruckCare® Dealer of the Year” award from Peterbilt Motors Co. for outstanding customer service.

A native of Beresford, S.D., Harland graduated from diesel mechanic training at Wyoming Technical Institute. He began as a mechanic at Peterbilt of Sioux City in 1984 and was promoted to service manager since 1992.

Don EgliIMTA

Harland GylfePeterbilt of Sioux City


Ralph ArthurRuan Transportation Management Systems

Mike GerdinHeartland Express

John SmithCRST International, Inc.

George CrouseCrouse Transportation Services

Murry FitzerFlorilli Transportation, LLC

Dan StevensFarner-Bocken Company

Don DeckerDecker Truck Line, Inc.

Jackie JohnsrudJohnsrud Transport, Inc.

Jeff WangsnessJMT Trucking Company

Dave DickeyHarold Dickey Transport, Inc.

Bob KohlwesBTI Special Commodities, Inc.

Kevin GassPerishable Distributors of Iowa Ltd.

2011 CommitteesExecutive Committee

Mike Riggan-ChairmanTanTara Transportation Corp.IMTA-Chairman of the Board

The main responsibility of this committee is to oversee, assist and direct the operations of the association. Individuals on this committee are potential candidates for moving into an officer position and eventually serving as the Chairman of the Board.

A special thanks to the following individuals that are serving on IMTA’s core committees. These individuals commit a great deal of time, energy and expertise to their respective committee assignments and their contributions are greatly appreciated.

“The executive committee represents past, present and future leaders of the association. While they are kept up to date on all aspects of the association, their involvement with our legislative issues on both the state and national level is extremely important. The group represents all sizes and types of carriers which is of great value as we shape public policy for the trucking industry.”


2011 Committees

George Crouse-ChairmanCrouse Transportation Services, LLC

Kyle Krause Solar Transport

Jack SawyerDes Moines Transportation Company

Murry FitzerFlorilli Transportation, LLC

Mark OlsonOlson Explosives

Jeff SimpsonMid Seven Transportation

Bob KohlwesBTI SpecialCommodities, Inc.

Robert SturgeonBarr-Nunn Transportation

Pat StoreyMotor-Ways, Inc.




Dave Dickey-ChairmanHarold Dickey Transport, Inc.

Finance Committee

Foundation Committee

The main responsibility of this committee is to provide assistance and oversight to the association’s financial operation. This committee also reviews the IMTA’s investments and makes recommendations in regard to the investments.

The main responsibility of this committee is to provide oversight, direction and support to the foundation. This committee assists with development and implementation of long and short term goals to strengthen the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation.

“I believe we have made tremendous improvements over the last several years in regard to the financial oversight of the association. This committee meets quarterly and not only do we review the ongoing financials of the association but we also have an eye to the future as we closely monitor the long term investments of IMTA. The transparency coupled with the oversight should give all IMTA members a great deal of comfort when it comes to their association,”

“The Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation was established to compliment the efforts of IMTA and also provide a tool for our industry and association to invest in the future through the scholarship program. We have some very exciting short and long term goals for the Foundation and having an active committee involved in that process will ensure that the Foundation can even more strongly compliment IMTA’s efforts and activities in the future.”


2011 Committees

George CrouseCrouse Transportation Services, LLC

Mike BaggCentral Trailer Service

Jeff DickinsonTen D, Inc.

Brian GeorgeGTL Transportation, Inc.




Pat KuehlGreat West Casualty Company

John MinorMidwest Wheel Companies

Mike Riggan TanTara Transportation Corp.

Don DeckerDecker Truck Line, Inc.

John SmithCRST International, Inc.

Murry FitzerFlorilli Transportation LLC

Dan Stevens-ChairmanFarner Bocken Co.

Jackie JohnsrudJohnsrud Transport, Inc.

CompensationCommitteeThe main responsibility of this committee is to conduct the annual salary review and evaluation process of the IMTA president. They will provide expectations, objectives and goals for the IMTA President/CEO.

“Given the world in which we operate today, many non-profit organizations have been highlighted in the newspaper and not for good reasons. IMTA has a very effective and thorough process in place that once again is built on transparency and professionalism in the oversight of this important evaluation process.”

Bob Kohlwes-ChairmanBTI Special Commodities, Inc.

Strategic Planning CommitteeThe main responsibility of this committee is to identify, develop and implement a short and long term plan that will strengthen the vitality of the Iowa Motor Truck Association through its non-dues revenue resources.

“This committee was formed in 2008 and has done some tremendous work in a short amount of time. Focusing on the future of the association is critically important especially in a day and age when there are tremendous challenges facing the membership. While membership dues will still be our primary source of revenue, finding other ways to support the association efforts without implementing dramatic dues increases is in the best interest of everyone.”


2011 Committees

Clayton FiskWarren Transport, Inc.

Fred GraskCedar Rapids Truck Center

Dave NelsenFreightliner of Des Moines, Inc.

Dave VanWykVanWyk, Inc.

Mark ZiemanCherry Valley Enterprises, Inc.

George CrouseCrouse Transportation Services, LLC

Mark OlsonOlson Explosives

Steve SchusterSchuster Co.



Kevin GassPerishable Distributors of Iowa Ltd.

Ralph Arthur-ChairmanRuan Transportation Management Systems

Dan StevensFarner Bocken Co.

Building CommitteeThe main responsibility of this committee is to provide added oversight and advise the association leaders on the priorities of the ongoing maintenance of the building. The building is one of the Iowa Motor Truck Association’s biggest assets and we need to take care of that asset.

“The IMTA members are proud of their building and we need to make sure that the building continues to be a source of pride by ongoing assessment and investment into needs of a 10,000 square foot building. Being at the foot of Iowa’s Capitol is a very powerful and visible statement of our value to the State of Iowa and we want to ensure that our building continues to be a very positive statement.”

Jeff Wangsness-ChairmanJMT Trucking Company

Legislative/PAC Committee

The main responsibility of this committee is to provide assistance and oversight with the advocacy efforts of the Iowa Motor Truck Association. This committee will play an important role in several different areas which include; Advocacy, Fundraising Efforts through Truck PAC Iowa and Legislative efforts.

“Our legislative efforts are paramount and the political efforts of the PAC are equally important to that equation, you simply cannot have one with out the other. We have made some great strides over the last several years with our PAC but in order to compete in this environment; we must continue to be aggressive in our fundraising efforts. It is incumbent that we have the mechanism to invest in pro-business lawmakers and candidates and I believe with the involvement of this committee, we will continue to be effective.”

IMTA Leaders Gather for Fall Board MeetingThe IMTA Board of Directors held there annual fall meeting in late November. The group meets twice a year and relies on the committees to work on the other specific issues impacting the association throughout the rest of the year. The primary points of discussion at the fall meeting were the IMTA budget, review of IMTA legislative priorities and reports by committee chairs on the priorities of the committee. “I am very appreciative of the commitment demonstrated by the board members. They all contribute in a valuable way and I appreciate their support and involvement as leaders of the industry and the association. I believe we have one of the best working boards you will find and their efforts have contributed to the ongoing success of this organization,” said IMTA Chairman of the Board Mike Riggan. In addition to the association items, speakers are always featured as well and at this meeting speakers included; Nancy Richardson, Iowa DOT Director, Speaker of the House, Kraig Paulsen, Senate Majority Leader, Mike Gronstal, IMTA Lobbyist, Dave Scott and FMCSA representative Roger Lutz. The next IMTA Board of Director’s meeting will be on Thursday, May 19th.

Board Meeting

Currently there are 45 individuals that serve on the IMTA Board of Directors. The group meets twice a year and represents various segments of the industry and the association. Pictured here are board members Doyle Kepley, Dave’s Auto & Truck Service representing the towing division, John Minor, Midwest Wheel Companies representing IMTA’s Allied members and Clayton Fisk with Warren Transport.

Donna Weinrich-Lucht serves as Iowa’s Vice President at large for the American Trucking Associations. Here she is pictured with Ralph Arthur with the Ruan Companies. Ralph was recently appointed to serve on IMTA’s Executive Committee

Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal also spoke at the November board meeting and provided his perspective on the 2011 session. Democrats control the Senate and Republicans control the House.

Newly elected IMTA 2nd Vice Chair Dan Stevens was presented with his official officer pin at the board meeting. Dan is with Farner-Bocken Companies out of Carroll and will be only the 3rd Chairman in the history of IMTA that represents private carriers.

Iowa DOT Director Nancy Richardson was honored at the November board meeting. Nancy had announced her retirement and IMTA took the opportunity to thank her for the outstanding work she had done on behalf of Iowa. Here she is pictured with IMTA Chairman of the Board Mike Riggan.

Newly elected Iowa Speaker of the House, Kraig Paulsen was the keynote speaker during lunch at the board meeting. Kraig is also an employee of CRST. He updated the group on priorities for the 2011 session. L-R: Brenda Neville, Speaker Paulsen, IMTA Lobbyist Dave Scott and Don Decker, Decker Truck Line, Inc.


Iowa Motor Truck Association Fuel Savings Program

SAVING MONEY

Enjoy these tremendous discounts every time you fuel up by using one of the following cards: Comdata, EFS, Fleet One, TCH or Tchek.Direct bill is required, but no financial information is needed if payments are made three (3) times per week by EFT (electronic funds transfer).

/4c 3c/ /0

The Iowa Motor Truck Association’s fuel savings program offers you an immediate return on investment with your fuel costs. Take advantage of a 4-cent savings per gallon in the state of Iowa and 3-cent savings throughout the rest of North America. This makes every 100 fuel stops worth a minimum of $450*.

It’s available to any size carrier, even if it’s already enrolled in a program but curious whether there is a better option to increase savings. The only stipulation is all participants must be a member of the IMTA.

So it begs the question – Do you want to be part of the IMTA’s most valuable member program yet?

*Savings estimated at $0.03 per gallon for a 150-gallon truck. See chart below for more details.

It Pays to be an IMTA Member!

1 Gallons Per Month

Monthly Savings(3 cents/gallon)

Monthly Savings(4 cents/gallon)

2 PossibleAnnual Savings

5,000

$150

10,000 15,000 20,000 25,000 30,000 40,000 50,000

1 Price based on $3.20 per gallon2 Possible annual savings does not include any money saved on the elimination of transaction fees

60,000

$1,500$1,200$900$750$600$450$300 $1,800

$200 $2,000$1,600$1,200$1,000$800$600$400 $2,400

$1,800-$2,400

$3,600-$4,800

$5,400-$7,200

$7,200-$9,600

$9,000-$12,000

$10,800-$14,400

$14,400-$19,200

$18,000-$24,000

$21,600-$28,800

Calculate Your Potential Fuel Savings

Iowa Motor Truck Association717 East Court Avenue

Des Moines, Iowa 50309(P) 515.244.5193 • (F) 515.244.2204

www.iowamotortruck.com

Interested in on your fuel?


HireRight DAC Trucking SolutionsMaintain compliance and hire drivers more efficiently with HireRight, the leader in driver screening and drug & alcohol testing.

» DAC Employment History File

» Drug & Alcohol Testing

» Motor Vehicle Reports

» Criminal History Reports

Discount available for Iowa Motor Truck Association members

Hire Safe. Hire Smart. HireRight.SM

www.hireright.com

800.400.2761

© 2009 HireRight, Inc. All rights reserved.For a listing of state Private Investigation licensing information for Altegrity, Inc. companies, go to www.altegrity.com/compliance.

Save The Date!Iowa Truck Driving

ChampionshipsFriday, June 10 &

Saturday, June 11, 2011

Iowa Speedway

For More Information:Contact the IMTA office: (515) 244 - 5193Visit the IMTA website: www.iowamotortruck.com

Annual Management

ConferenceTuesday, September 20

& Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Cedar Rapids Marriott


The Iowa Motor Carriers’ Foundation is a nonprofit corporation organized for the purpose of providing educational opportunities to deserving young Iowans. Scholarships awarded by the Iowa Motor Carriers’ Foundation are available to students majoring in any field of study. To be eligible to receive a Foundation scholarship.The student must currently be attending or planning to attend college in the state of Iowa. Applications are available beginning January 1st by calling the IMTA or on the IMTA website at www.iowamotortruck.com with a deadline of March 15th, scholarships are awarded by June 1st.

Motor Carriers Foundation Update

Establishing a ScholarshipTo have a scholarship established in the name of a loved one, an endowment of $10,000 is required. At that level, a perpetual scholarship is established in the specified name and is awarded annually.

For more information on establishing a scholarship contact Brenda Neville at the IMTA office. (515) 244-5193

“We turn 100 years young this year (2011) and we felt that as we approach that milestone that it was appropriate for us to show our appreciation of the trucking industry in Iowa by establishing a scholarship program through the Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation,” said Mike Callison, President of Midwest Wheel Companies. The company began as Iowa Vulcanizing Company in 1911 and was the first rubber vulanizer west of the Mississippi. Mike’s great grandfather, George Koons was founder of the business. George had moved to Des Moines from Akron, Ohio where he had worked for Harvey Firestone. Over the years the company evolved and grew and is now one of the largest truck parts distributors in the Midwest. The family and employee owned business carries a full-line of replacement heavy-duty fleet products, school bus parts, light trailer products as well as light truck accessories. The company has 7 branches with 180 employees and service customers in Iowa and 6 neighboring states as well as Kansas. In 2009, Midwest Wheel Companies implemented a program that resulted in partial employee ownership. For the past 50 years, the company has been one of IMTA’s greatest supporters as well. “We are proud of being affiliated with the trucking industry and we recognize the value of this industry. The phrase “if you have it, a truck brought it” is one of my favorite phrases because it appropriately illustrates the value of trucking. However, it seems as though

it is harder and harder to get young people interested in this industry, so if our scholarship can bring just one person into the trucking industry, we feel we have accomplished a great goal,” continued Mike. The scholarship is available immediately and is listed on the 2011 application which can be found at www.iowamotortruck.com the deadline for applications is March 15th. The Midwest Wheel Scholarship will be added to a growing list of endowed scholarships offered through the foundation and will be initially set as a $1000 annual scholarship. “We believe that IMTA is one of the strongest state trucking associations in the country and as an allied member, we felt that offering a scholarship through the foundation was just one more way we could show our support of IMTA. We are here to support the trucking industry and IMTA through the good times and the bad times. We want to thank everyone for all the great support they have provided to Midwest Wheel Companies over the last 100 years….it has been a wonderful ride,” said Mike.

Mike Callison with Midwest Wheel Companies was pleased to announce that Midwest Wheel Companies will be setting up a MWC scholarship in recognition of the company’s 100th anniversary (2011). Mike made the presentation at the November Board meeting and presented the check to 2010 Chairman of the Board Bob Kohlwes and 2011 Chairman of the Board Mike Riggan.

Midwest Wheel Companies makes $20,000 Donation to Iowa Motor Carriers Foundation

heavy duty truck partsABS Components • Suspension • Electrical • Lighting • Mirrors • Chemicals • More

See Us For All Your

Differentials

DrivelineTransmissions

www.midwestwheel.com

Order nline100 YEARS STRONG

Since 1911


Iow

a

Des Moines1436 E. Ovid Ave.(515) 265-1491Fax (515) 265-4120Parts Fax (800) 314-4329(800) 888-0248

Sioux City1819 E. 4th St.(712) 252-7969Fax (712) 252-6149(800) 943-3534

Davenport8502 Northwest Blvd.(563) 322-2671Fax (563) 322-5940(800) 553-1886

SUPER STORE

Truck Parts

Clear Lake840 Hwy. 18 W.(641) 357-7101Fax (641) 357-8190(800) 397-5630Fax (800) 548-9674

Cedar Rapids200 50th Ave. S.W.(319) 365-4453Fax (319) 365-6327(800) 332-5435Fax (877) 706-6085

Kansas City1819 Troost Ave.(816) 471-1552Fax (816) 471-0813(800) 821-7402

Grandview14817 So. 71 Hwy.(816) 318-9111Fax (816) 318-9114Toll Free (866) 318-9111

Mis

so

uri

TM

100STRONG

YEARS

Member Outreach

IMTA Launches Annual Member Outreach CampaignAs in years past, IMTA took to the road and held events from Sioux City to Dubuque for members and non-members. This is the third year that IMTA staff and leaders have held these important events and attendance was up at all locations.

“It was certainly a priority for me as Chairman of the Board to get out and really get familiar with the members. I think it is important that we provide opportunities for the members to discuss their issues of concern and that is the main objective of holding these types of events,” said IMTA Chairman of the Board, Mike Riggan.

IMTA made stops in Sioux City, Atlantic, Dubuque and Iowa City. Additional events will be held in Davenport, Des Moines and Fort Dodge later this spring. The focus of the meetings is to give members an update on the priorities of the association and also allow for feedback from the members.

“It is easy to get out of touch in the Ivory towers of Des Moines so we really believe there is value to get out and meet with the members. We have a tremendous amount of support throughout the state and we are always looking for opportunities to meet with the members and get an understanding of what issues and priorities they have as truckers and suppliers,” said IMTA President Brenda Neville.

A special thanks to all the members that attended the outreach activities. Additional events will continue to be planned and any member that is interested in hosting an event in their community is encouraged to contact the IMTA office. (515)244-5193

Greg Preussner, Greg Preussner Truck Line, Mike Riggan, TanTara Transportation, Mark Zieman, Cherry Valley Enterprises, Inc., Pat Storey, Motor-Ways, Inc., and Dave Neuwohner, All Seasons Trucking, Inc.

Denise Anthony, Anthony P & L, Inc., Neal Anthony, Anthony P & L, Inc., Gerald Hodgson, Hodgson Trucking, Inc., and

Gregg Goodenow, Gregg Goodenow, Ltd.

Brett Eggert, Bennett Trucking and Robert Brauns, Robert Brauns, Inc.

Jeff Petersen, Sioux City Truck Sales, Inc., Mike Riggan, TanTara Transportation, Jeff Arens, Schuster Co., Steve Schuster, Schuster Co., Dave Van Wyk, Van Wyk, Inc. and Brenda Dittmer, Weinrich Truck Lines

Mike Riggan, TanTara Transportation and Jeff Petersen, Sioux City Truck Sales, Inc.

Jim Schmidt, Theisen Supply, Inc. and Chris Patrick, Cottingham & Butler, Inc.

38 Winter 2010Lifeliner38 Winter 2010Lifeliner

Member Outreach

“It was certainly a priority for me as your Chairman of the Board to get out and get familiar with the members.” -IMTA Chairman of the Board Mike Riggan

Ellis Smith, Cummins Central Power and Fred Grask, Cedar Rapids Truck Center

Angie Paisley, Paisley Trucking, Inc., Kim Paisley, Paisley Trucking, Inc., Dave Neuwohner, All Seasons Trucking, Inc. and Jody Neuwohner, All Seasons Trucking, Inc.

Phillip Nicolino, IMTA, Heath Richards, Panama Transfer, Dean Kloewer, Panama Transfer, Rick George, Iowa Tanklines, Inc.

Doug Emard, Quad City Peterbilt, Inc., Tim Ryan, Quad City Peterbilt, Inc., and Delwin Van Wyk, Interstate PowerSystems

Members and Prospects in the Atlantic area enjoy an update from IMTA Staff at the Member Outreach event.

Laren Wille, Belle Plaine Nursery, Laverne Wille, Belle Plaine Nursery

Jim Koester, Midwest Wheel Companies, David Riggan, TanTara Transportation, and Kirk Wyffels, Hull Enterprises, Inc.



Member Outreach - Open House

Annual Holiday Open House Brings IMTA Members Together “I wanted the Holiday Open House because I think there is great value in bringing the members together for networking and socializing. It is a great way to get better acquainted with one another and I was very pleased with the tremendous turn out we had,” said IMTA Chairman of the Board Mike Riggan.

In December, IMTA officers once again hosted the annual event and IMTA members from across the state were in attendance. In addition to providing an opportunity for networking, the event also served as an opportunity for members to donate items to the Food Bank efforts. IMTA made a sizeable donation of paper products and canned goods to the Food Banks in some of the smaller communities surrounding Des Moines.

“I think we have better times in store and I think 2011 is going to continue to show recovery for our industry. I wish all the IMTA members continued success as we enter into the New Year,” said Mike Riggan.

Leon Johnsrud, Johnsrud Transport, Inc., David Irving, Mckenna Truck Center, and Jeff Schroder, McKenna Truck Center

Fred Grask, Cedar Rapids Truck Center, Bob Kohlwes, BTI Special Commodities, Inc., and Pat Storey, Motor-Ways, Inc.

Sid Carroll, Great West Casualty Company and Dave Nelsen, Freightliner of Des Moines

Mike Bagg, Central Trailer Service, Ltd., Karen & Delwin Van Wyk, Interstate PowerSystems

Dave Dickey, Harold Dickey Transport, Darrell Whitehead, D.R. & K.W. Transtor, and George Crouse, Crouse Transportation Services, LLC

Bob & Jane Sturgeon, Barr-Nunn Transportation, Inc. and Val Lind, Central Trailer Services

Brenda Neville, IMTA, Mike Riggan, TanTara Transportation and David Boyer, Boyer Petroleum Co.


Sponsorship Program

Boyer Petroleum Steps Up to Become a Platinum Sponsor IMTA PLATINUM SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM Two years ago, at the urging of several allied members, IMTA created a special recognition program that was designed to give a limited number of supplier members added recognition. Following a model that is commonly used by associations, IMTA created the Platinum Sponsorship program. The objective of the program was to allow four suppliers into a 12 month program that would give them added exposure and recognition in the trucking industry. After the creation of the program, the economy took a nose dive and interested suppliers determined they needed to put the investment in other places and the proposal was put back up on the shelf for future consideration.

Most recently, IMTA was once again approached by some members looking for additional opportunities to get in front of customers and potential customers and Boyer Petroleum became the first IMTA Platinum Sponsor. As a Platinum Sponsor, Boyer Petroleum will have a number of opportunities throughout the next 12 months to gain tremendous exposure and recognition with IMTA members.

The program is currently limited to four sponsors/year so there are three additional spots available if an allied member is interested in getting on board for the 2011 program. If you are interested, please contact the IMTA office (515)244-5193.

Boyer Petroleum Announces Support of IMTA Platinum Sponsorship ProgramSince 1936, the family owned and operated Boyer Petroleum

has been providing lubrication and petroleum products and services to customers in Iowa and beyond. As they kick off their 75th year, Boyer Petroleum determined they wanted to celebrate in a big way and became an exclusive member of IMTA’s Platinum Sponsorship program.

“We were looking for a way to get added exposure during this special anniversary year and our first choice was to partner with the Iowa Motor Truck Association in some way,” said Boyer Petroleum President, David Boyer.

“We are proud to be a Platinum Sponsor with the Iowa Motor Truck Association. This program truly brings Iowa’s best together and doing business with the best companies in Iowa is just our style. It’s who we are and we are proud of to be affiliated with IMTA and its members,” said Boyer.

For seven decades, Boyer Petroleum has helped its clients improve their businesses by sharing industry expertise and providing their customers with the recommendations for the right lubrication and petroleum products to keep their equipment running at peak performance. In addition, Boyer Petroleum is equally committed to providing the best customer service and support to the companies they serve.

Boyer Petroleum partners with national leaders such as Mobil, Conoco, Kendall, Baldwin and BlueDef to provide their customers with a variety of options and alternatives. “We make it our job to be a valued business partner. We have the knowledge and the expertise to create efficiencies and surpass expectations,” said Boyer.

In recognition of their 75th anniversary the company has implemented an extensive outreach program that is anchored by the slogan

“Experience is Excellence” and with 75 years in the industry, it is an appropriate and fitting campaign. A 1930’s sales kit including a viscosity demonstration used by David’s grandfather is on display at the company headquarters in Des Moines and David’s father, Art Boyer is also still active in the company as well.

“We are a family business and proud to be celebrating a milestone year. It is rewarding to be celebrating 75 years of service and a testament to my grandfather and my father for the tremendous work they did over time to make us a viable and strong organization,” said Boyer.

Boyer Petroleum prides itself in being “Boyer-strong.” It’s the Boyer expertise and customer service focus that are paramount to our culture – and truly makes us business partners with our customers. David cites tenure and industry experts that sets Boyer Petroleum apart from its competitors and recognizes several pillars in the Boyer organization: Charlie Williams, Sales Manager, Richard Belisario, Warehouse Manager, Phil Staudt, Transportation Specialist, Allan Kitten, Salesman, Pat Bishop, Operations Manager and Cindi Bowers, Customer Service Representative. With these people – and many others – Boyer Petroleum continues to enjoy success and growth.

“We have always relied upon a strong and dedicated staff and we are very proud of the teamwork that is also a hallmark of our success over the years. We are very grateful of the outstanding employees we have at Boyer,” continued Boyer.

Boyer Petroleum has been an active member of the Iowa Motor Truck Association. David and several of his key employees have served on various committees through the association.

“We are the benefactors of the IMTA as we participate in their safety training programs, realize the effects of their constant work at the Capitol and learn from other trucking companies in the association. Being an active member of IMTA makes Boyer Petroleum a better company as we strive to be a responsible trucking company as well as a responsible member – servicing other companies with our products and our services,” said David.

Art & David Boyer, the 2nd and 3rd generations of Boyers, proudly carrying on the tradition: Experience is Excellence.


The Final Word

HOURS OF SERVICE ACTION PLAN WE NEED YOUR HELP IMMEDIATELY! Please consider submitting your comments by MONDAY, FEBRUARY 28TH on the proposed Hours of Service changes. IMTA leaders are urging all members to get involved by encouraging all employees to submit comments supporting the current Hours of Service Regulations.

Deadline for submission of comments: MONDAY, FEBRUARY 28TH

Comments may be submitted: Electronically By Fax By Mail

ELECTRONICALLY: Step 1: Go to: http://www.regulations.gov/#!home

Step 2: Click on “Submit a comment”

Step 3: In the dialogue box for “Enter Keyword or ID” enter: FMCSA-2004-19608

Step 4: Click on “Search”

Step 5: In the far right hand column of the search results click “submit a comment”

Step 6: Enter your name and address

Step 7: Either type a short remark in the space provided or upload a file (letter) by doing the following: click “browse” and search for appropriate file on your computer once you have found and selected the correct file, click “attach” once the file ahs been successful attached, click “submit”

If you encounter problems with the system, you may contact the regulations.gov helpdesk by: email – http://www.regulations.gov/#!contactUSphone – 1-877-378-5457 (toll free) or (703)412-3083 Helpdesk Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Eastern Time

FAX: 202-493-2251

MAIL : To: Ms. Anne Ferro, AdministratorFederal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Attn: Hours of Service of DriversDocket # FMSCA-2004-196081200 New Jersey Avenue, SEWashington, DC 20590-0001

If you submit comments, please include the docket number (FMCSA-2004-19608) and indicate the specific section of the document to which each comment applies, and provide a reason and/or documentation for each suggestion, recommendation, or comment. FMCSA requests that you include your name and address, an email address, or a phone number in the body of your document, in order for FMCSA to be able to contact you if they have any questions regarding your submission.

All comments received will be posted, without change, to http://www.regulations.gov and will include any personal information you include. All comments are available for viewing at the same website.

VOICE YOUR OPPOSITIONIndustry experts and even regulators believe that this proposal can BE STOPPED if EVERYONE in the trucking industry gets involved and engaged by submitting comments about these proposals.

FORM LETTERS are not suggested, instead YOUR UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE on these changes and HOW THESE CHANGES will IMPACT your productivity is what is needed in this campaign. The letter does not have to be lengthy or elaborate, just put down your thoughts on this proposal.

The DOT is REQURED to read and consider every letter, so don’t hesitate to write. Trucking companies are not limited to one letter, in fact, some companies are sending one from each department and in some cases, one from each employee, but the key is that they need to all be written in a different manner. There are 757,000 registered motor carriers and if only a portion of those folks send a letter, the message will be made.

Talking Points Here are some suggested talking points that you may want to review and then put in your own words in your letter

Highway Safety will suffer – a reduction in driving time and working hours will trigger a need for more drivers and as a company is forced to find more drivers, a percentage of those new drivers will be inexperienced.

The industry was just given new operating parameters less than a year ago with Hours of Service rules, why the change now…especially when the industry has consistently demonstrated IMPROVED safety over the last three years. The industry is just now getting adjusted to those changes and now the industry has new ones thrown at them. It makes no sense and is not warranted.

The economy is still struggling and even though there is some recovery it is slow at best. The new proposed rules is only going to hamper the industry’s ability to recover. With the new rules, the industry will have less capacity to haul freight and eventually this will hit the end consumer as prices go up for the goods and products they use.

Critical components of the nation’s distribution network will be disrupted. Existing routes and distribution centers have been designed around the current HOS rules.

Congestion issues will only get worse because the proposed changes will force trucking companies to put more trucks on the road to deliver the freight in the parameters outlined with the new rules.

A reduction in pay for drivers due to less wage-earning time each day.

Visit the Iowa Motor Truck Association web site:

www.iowamotortruck.comCheck the News and Events box for a link to more information on how you can get involved.

Your Help is

Needed!


IA Lifeliner_1110_OL.indd 1 11/24/2010 9:00:05 AM

heavy duty truck partsABS Components • Suspension • Electrical • Lighting • Mirrors • Chemicals • More

See Us For All Your

Differentials

DrivelineTransmissions


Order nline100 YEARS STRONG

Since 1911


Iow

a

Des Moines1436 E. Ovid Ave.(515) 265-1491Fax (515) 265-4120Parts Fax (800) 314-4329(800) 888-0248

Sioux City1819 E. 4th St.(712) 252-7969Fax (712) 252-6149(800) 943-3534

Davenport8502 Northwest Blvd.(563) 322-2671Fax (563) 322-5940(800) 553-1886

SUPER STORE

Truck Parts

Clear Lake840 Hwy. 18 W.(641) 357-7101Fax (641) 357-8190(800) 397-5630Fax (800) 548-9674

Cedar Rapids200 50th Ave. S.W.(319) 365-4453Fax (319) 365-6327(800) 332-5435Fax (877) 706-6085

Kansas City1819 Troost Ave.(816) 471-1552Fax (816) 471-0813(800) 821-7402

Grandview14817 So. 71 Hwy.(816) 318-9111Fax (816) 318-9114Toll Free (866) 318-9111

Mis

so

uri

TM

100STRONG

YEARS

PRSRT STDUS POSTAGE

PAIDAMES, IA 50010PERMIT NO. 14

2010 lifeliner magazine (issue 4)

Documents

foundation committee

executive committee

finance committee

compensation committee

building committee

iowa truck services

safety update

legislative update