OCTOBER CTM Magazine

PRICELESS! OctOber 2009

Canadian Trucking Magazine

PMA No. 41859012

www.canadiantruckingmagazine.ca

Canadian Trucking Magazine www.canadiantruckingmagazine.ca carl Sveinson contact Info: editor P/O Box 6 Stn F Wpg Mb R2L 2A5 The person that attempts to make all this Telephone is (204) 997 8876 make sense. Still working on it!

Fax is (204) 755 2641 carl@canadiantruckingmagazine.ca

ctM Girl of the Month

Dave MacKenzie Publisher Coffee shop bandit! dave@canadiantruckingmagazine.ca

If you know someone that is interested, have them contact: ctmgirl@canadiantruckingmagazine.ca

Drew thornson Down the road contributor drew@canadiantruckingmagazine.ca

It seems the magazine is a hit with you folks, as we have a lot of inquiries about getting subscription service. When we informed these folks that the magazine was free, they responded that they wanted to ensure they received a copy, and wanted to have a copy mailed to their home address.

Angie Dola client Services (The person that does all the stuff we don’t want to!) angie@canadiantruckingmagazine.ca Angela Sveinson client Services representative Our sherpa guide, keeps us in line. angela@canadiantruckingmagazine.ca Patti blackmore Graphic Designer Call (204) 888-8423 for your print layouts today!

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Subscription Service

So, after much discussion and research, we determined that we can indeed comply with your request. For more information contact customer services at subscribe@canadiantruckingmagazine.ca All advertisements, and/or editorials are accepted, and published by Canadian Trucking Magazine on the representation that the advertiser, its advertising company, and/or the supplier of the editorials are authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. The advertiser, its advertising company, and/or the supplier of the editorials will defend, indemnify and hold Canadian Trucking Magazine harmless from and against any loss, expense, or other liability resulting from any claims, or suits, violation of privacy, plagiarism, copyright or trademark infringement and other claims that may rise out of publication of such advertisement and/or editorials. Press releases are expressly covered within the definition of editorials.

Canadian Trucking Magazine

carl Sveinson Editor Canadian Trucking Magazine random thoughts I remember sitting with a non truck driving buddy (we won’t hold that against him) watching t.v. and sipping on ice tea. He was flipping through channels when he happened upon Smokey and the Bandit playing on one of the old movie stations.

We both fondly remember watching the movie back in the day, and my buddy asked me how closely that represented truck driving at the time. First I had to point out that 1977, when the movie came out, I was sixteen years old, and had no clue about trucking at the time. (Some would argue that holds true today as well!)

Any stories I could relate to him came from the old boys I had met when I got into the industry a while later. The boys would get a gleam in their eye when talking about the friendships, the challenges of driving the old style trucks and trailers with spring ride suspensions (my back cringes at that memory), and the fact there were fewer regulations bogging them down.

While the movie represented a much exagerated view of the industry, it did demonstrate a tight kinship between drivers that existed in the day. You see the old drivers gather in a coffee shop, and they will see guys they worked with years ago, and they get together and talk like they were brothers from different mothers – reliving old experiences, and getting caught Canadian Trucking Magazine

up with mutual friends.

To me, the prototypical truck driver is a person that wears jeans, but has a special pair of slacks for weddings, anniversaries, and funerals. Of course these are combined with a pair of cowboys boots. The truck driver has an affection for good coffee (a rarity these days), and good conversation. Truck drivers are generous folks that enjoy the simpler things in life. Any time there is a charity, especially one that involves children, the driver will dig deep into his/her pockets to help out, even when the pockets might be s little low on funds. Guys like Pete Buckley, and Bill Anderson come to mind, these guys are prepared to take time to help out a fellow driver.

Where am I going with this you ask? My wife frequently asks that question. Well, you see, it is this type of person that showed up to help make the Manitoba Convoy for Special Olympics a success this year. Fourty-eight men and women came out, many with Special Olympians along for a ride, to go on a run to raise money for the athletes. The participants deserve a huge hand for taking the time to help out. The organizing committee did a wonderful job of making this event run smoothly.

The Winnipeg Police, the RCMP, the Military Police, and the MCEO folks October 2009

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helped to ensure that the convoy moved smoothly around the city of Winnipeg.

And what was the reward? The smiling faces of the athletes as they traveled alongside the drivers, as well as the knowledge that they had an opportunity to make a difference in these peoples’ lives. As I stood on the side of the road taking photos of them as they drove by, the sight of their beaming smiles as they waved happily told me that this event took a day out of the driver’s lives, but it will live forever in the minds of the athletes and the drivers.

Next year, if you have a chance to help out, and want to experience something that will impact your life and the lives of others, donate some of your time, and come out to the convoy. You will never forget it.

Winter Skills!

Hey kids, it’s almost skating season, have you checked your gear out to ensure everything is in order? How about you, have you honed your winter skills as a reminder of the times you are about to endure?

Each year people experience the first slippery conditions of the year, and there are countless drivers that lose track of how bad the roads can get. If your company offers winter driving courses it wouldn’t hurt you to take a refresher. Remember, you have people wanting you to get home safely.

In the meantime, Uncle Carl is going to remind you to take warm weather clothing with you in case of break down. Also be sure to take a candle, carry extra blankets, and plenty of water and canned food with you on your trip.

Now folks, go out and play safely out there!

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The World’s Largest Truck Convoy 48 Drivers Raise $15,000 for Special Olympics in Manitoba!

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Special Olympic athletes wait anxiously to be paired with their respective drvers. It was an exciting time for the athletes.

Once the athletes are introduced to the drivers, it is time to hit the road!

And not a moment too soon, as they can’t wait to get in the trucks.

Of course it wouldn’t be a convoy without a proper escort! Many thanks to the law enforcement personnel that came out in support of this event.

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The CTM Special Events Cruiser, before the make-over, gets ready to head out to cover the convoy.

Cliff Sumner, of Transx, in the lead truck prepares to show us the way!

The honor of leading the convoy goes to the driver that raises the most money for the event. Are you going to take this spot next year?

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Smiling faces were everywhere as they rolled through. The experience was rewarding, and we were glad we had the opportunity to attend in person.

A happy participant shows two thumbs up as he goes by. It helps one to understand why so many drivers come back each year to help.

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After much deliberation, the athletes decided that this truck was the truck in the convoy they liked the best! Lots of lights, shiny chrome, and a big HERD bumper certainly helped win Henri Picton, of Darcol International, this trophy! Next year hop on board and get involved with your local Special Olympics convoy. You will be raising money for a worthwhile cause, and you will find it personally rewarding.

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Cliff Sumner, of Transx, accepts the trophy for raising the most money; resulting in him achieving “Lead Truck” status.

Marcel Lesage of Transx accepts the trophy for “Most Trucks” participating.

Danielle Ruttan of Bison accepts the award for second highest number of trucks in the event.

Athletes hand out scrolls to the drivers, in appreciation of their particiaption.

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Driver to Driver Dave MacKenzie Director of Client Services dave@canadiantruckingmagazine.ca Dave brings over 32 years of transport experience from company driver to owner operator, from recruiting and retention to executive, enforcement and compliance.

What a busy Month this has been for CTM! Many of you have noticed the new decked out CTM Event Cruiser, or was it the CTM Girls that were handing out the free swag and signing autographs across the country?

Carl has the Suburban sporting a new HERD that really adds to the suburban.

Forget the safety and the now-gone white knuckle feeling at night down animal row,

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it just plain looks great!

CTM attended the World’s Largest

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Truck Convoy for Special Olympics, before we decked out the Cruiser. This year was bigger and better than last year. CTM will for 2010 make sure it is well posted with a goal of being even bigger and better. The day you spend helping out is a memory that lasts a lifetime. See more pictures at our events site at www.ctmevents.ca.

I notice a lot of readers took to my article last month on the H1N1 PANDEMIC,

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also called the Swine Flu Virus.

What is a PANDEMIC INFLUENZA? Simple by definition; it is an epidemic that spreads throughout the world. Influenza A is the type of influenza virus involved in all influenza pandemics as it can undergo major changes or shifts in genetic makeup producing a completely new strain for which most people have little or no specific immunity. As a result, large numbers of individuals become infected as it spreads.

For an INFLUENZA VIRUS to be considered a PANDEMIC, it must be a new virus with the ability to spread efficiently among people, causing widespread illness and DEATH. Now Driver, I hope I have your attention, as we have enough death threats with weather, fatigue and four wheelers. This one we can prepare ourselves for, and

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form a conscious defense. If you can pick up an alcohol based hand sanitizer for

Out on the road Bella and Courtney gave the thumbs up to the Wells Grey Inn in Clearwater B.C., our favorite 24 hour stop on Hwy 5. I like to plug this Fave stop of ours because they keep their restaurant

your truck, home, and four wheeler, please do it. Keep yourself safe and working and avoid anyone that appears to have a bad cold.

open 24 hours for us, with great food and a welcoming attitude. They’re there for us, so we have to stop there to keep it there for us. Drop in and say Dave sent ya. Grab a room at our CTM discount price.

Bella and Courtney also were on tour through BC, and had the chance to visit the famous LegendZ for some of the best burgers and

shakes in Canada. They took the opportunity to once again sign magazines for CTM readers. Our favorite part of CTM is getting out there and jawing with the readers.

It helps the magazine grow and improve with your input.

Please take the opportunity if you use the internet to become a Fan of CTM on our Fackbook page at 16

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Canadian Trucking Magazine

Canadian Trucking Magazine. Always important events, pictures and where you can find the Event Cruiser.

Everything in our magazine reflects ex-

again, I have always run with protection on my rigs. The feeling of being relaxed especially at this time of year with the animals on the move. Don’t wait till you are a victim till you look into these great products CTM promotes.

periences from our crew here. A lot of things you see advertised like the HERD protectors to the Pathfinder cameras from Cruisercam are items we support and I have used on my rig. I don’t mind telling you how these have saved me big bucks in the past in animal strikes. The Thermal imaging PathFindIR from Cruisercam is something new I have only used in the Van and seen a great demonstration at Fergus from our good friend who sells them from Medicine Hat. It is amazing, see the animal 1000 feet away in pure darkness.

If you are leasing a truck, put on a HERD, hook up a PathFindIR, and add it to the lease and protect your investment.

If you are not changing trucks, Cruisercam has leasing options, or you could outright purchase one. The first time they save you a strike and thousands of dollars and down time, remember reading this and buy me a coffee and pie.

I was talking to a driver involved in a moose strike in Ontario, that not only was he looking at a $5000 deductable and a 3,200$ towing bill, but a few weeks down time. A lot of dollars there that could have been saved with the right protection in place. As I have told drivers over and over

Can’t leave Gloria’s out this issue, as I still have drivers asking me where she is in Chilliwack. Best answer this issue, just jump on the CB at Lickman Road and someone will direct you. Best bang for your buck at the Chilliwack Truck stops and food that will bring you back.

Canadian Trucking Magazine

Some of you might have noticed a new building Truck Wash in Whitewood. It is Willy and the gang at OK Tire Auto Service. A good place to wash down the rig

Hey driver, do you know who this is?

Turn to page 59 to find out!

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without a long wait and shake off the cob webs. As well they do a 24 hr tire service at (306) 735 2224. Yes hold on to your issues and the important numbers in our advertisers, articles and Permits, Road Conditions and Weather Resources right here at your finger tips when you or someone on the road might need them.

Look forward to seeing you on the road and listening to your input on CTM, this is your magazine, targeted to and for you so the input is important to us.

My driver to driver is to inform, almost sounds like a series of info commercials sometimes, but are products and places I deal with and respect. Watch for me next month and the CTM Cruiser and Gang, perhaps you might be in here.

Happy trails. Dave.

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You can email me at Dave@canadiantruckingmagazine.ca or call 204 997 8876.

Hey driver, do you know who this is?

Turn to page 59 to find out!

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chris Sveinson NFL Live!

For the third week of the NFL season I packed my bags, loaded the truck with 10 of my closest friends and family, and headed south of the border to Minneapolis for the weekend.

Aside from a little Albertville shopping, we thought we’d take in an NFL game while we were in town. The San Francisco 49ers were in town to face off against the

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Minnesota Vikings, a battle of undefeated teams looking to preserve their unblemished records.

Coming into the ‘09 season, the expectations in the bay area were much higher, after ending the 08’ campaign winning five of their last eight games under then interim head coach Mike Singletary. With Singletary cemented as the 49er’s head coach for the 09’ season, there was a new attitude in San Francisco and it showed as they exploded out of the gates, picking up two big divisional wins against Arizona and Seattle. The Vikings were to be the first true test for this young up and coming 49er’s team, to see where they truly were in their development as a team.

Minnesota was coming off the 08 season that saw them post their first winning season since 2000, on route to a NFC north title, but a quick exit from the playoffs at the hands of the Philadelphia Eagles. The Vikings continued to build on last season’s success by signing future hall of fame quarterback Brett Favre, which was the cog Minnesota needed to become a legitimate contender in the NFC. After starting this season with wins against Cleveland and Detroit, Minnesota looked stronger with every game and was October 2009

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the favorite against a 49er’s team looking to build on their already impressive season.

Football Sunday arrived, we wanted to get to the stadium an hour before kickoff to take in the pre-game atmosphere, so after a hearty breakfast buffet and ten cups of coffee, we were off. Being a hardcore 49er fan, I adorned my red throwback Jerry Rice #80, which got me many glares and even a few threats from the locals on our hike to the Metrodome. Upon reaching the stadium, I came upon a sea of purple the likes of which I have never seen before. There was cover band playing a well rehearsed version of Cream’s Sunshine of your Love.

Once we got through security and entered the main corridor, I was right away high-fived by two guys dressed head to toe in 49er regalia; it’s gratifying knowing you have friends behind enemy lines.

Before securing my seat, I decided to go down to field level and check out both teams while they went through their pregame warm ups. It’s exciting to see your favorite players up close getting ready for a game and doing a lot of the same drills you used to do playing football as a kid.

Once I finally got to my seat I quickly bonded with the trio of 49er fans sitting two rows in front of me, which would be my high five partners throughout the game.

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you get to see just how great a show the NFL can put on. The place started going nuts as Led Zeppelin’s Immigrant Song blares on the loud speakers, with the sound of Ragnar (the Viking’s mascot) revving his Harley, and eventually tearing onto the field with the Vikings rushing out right behind him. Let the show begin…

Both teams started out very strong on defense, forcing punts in each of their first drives of the game which sprouted friendly trash talk between me and nearby Vikings fans. The Vikings would soon jump ahead on their second drive of the first quarter, with a 30-yard touchdown pass to WR Sidney Rice to put them ahead 7-0 and the place erupted. San Francisco would struggle on offence through the first quarter,

putting up zero points. The Vikings would add to their lead in the second quarter with a Ryan Longwell field goal making it a ten point game. The 49ers showed a sign of life with a drive of their own moving down the field for a capping it off with a 5-yard to TE Vernon Davis to close the gap to three points. Just before the half, Minnesota moved the ball into San Francisco territory, but the drive stalled and Minnesota had to settle for field goal, makCanadian Trucking Magazine

ing it 13-7. On their next drive they would stall again, and go for another field goal, but the try was block and Nate Clements returned the ball 59-yards for a touchdown to pull ahead 14-13. It was a beautiful way to end the first half of what was shaping up to be a great game.

At halftime, the crowd was treated to an impressive show by a U.S. Marine drill squad, cheerleaders and trivia. I was still taking it all in, and enjoying the atmosphere and scenery, such as lovely young women wearing midriff Brett Favre jerseys (Brett Favre never looked so good).

Another beer later and the second half was upon us. The 49ers took the ball in the third quarter and drove it down the field but managed only a field goal making it a 17-13 ballgame. All was good until the kickoff…kick returner Percy Harvin ran the ball out of the end zone and back 101yards for the score. Any momentum San Francisco had seemed to be gone in a flash, but the 49er offence rallied and drove the ball down the field and capped it off with a 20 yard strike to Vernon Davis for his second touchdown of the night.

Me and my new friends two rows down were having a ball at this point, high fives were flying all over the place.

Minnesota’s next 2 drives would go nowhere, but San Francisco was unable to run out the clock to seal the game and had to punt. Minnesota would get one more shot to drive down the field for the touchdown they desperately needed and with Favre at the helm, and 1:30 left, the stage was set for what would be a highlight for weeks, heck years.

Favre drove down the field completing short passes, methodically moving the chains, and got down to the 49er 32-yard line with 12 seconds left. Favre settled under center, took the snap and was under fire immediately, with a collapsing pocket Favre eluded one tackle before heaving it

in the direction of WR Greg Lewis who was streaking across the back of the end zone. Lewis Stretched out for the ball and managed to tap both feet in bounds before being knocked out of bounds by safety Mark Roman. The crowd erupted into a deafening roar as their team pulled off a miraculous comeback.

But the cheering was short lived as the play was reviewed by the replay officials because it was possible Lewis hadn’t got both feet inbounds. After a few intense moments, the play was confirmed a touchdown and the stadium went crazy for the second time. All I could do was stare in disbelief at what had just happened while everyone else around me was cheering and my fellow 49er faithful 2 rows down were just as shocked.

It was a long walk back to the hotel that afternoon, full of taunting and jawing, such is the life when you’re cheering for the right team in the wrong town. Though my 49ers lost the game that day, it was one hell of a game, and something I can hold onto for a long time. That game could very well go down as one of the greats in history and I can say I was there and lived in the moment along with 63,000 people in that dome that day.

Hey driver, do you know who this is?

Turn to page 59 to find out!

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Kelly Anderson President Impact Transportation Solutions

Driver turnover Falls to Historic Lows – but Get ready I read a recent article in Transport Topics reporting the turnover rate had dropped to 52% at large truckload fleets, and 42% at smaller truckload fleets. This is an all time low for truckload fleets. Turnover usually averages around 120% for large carriers and 80 – 90% for small carriers. FYI, for lessthan-truckload carriers the current rate is 6% I believe the lower turnover rate in the industry is directly tied to the fact that carriers aren’t hiring. Since the first of the year carriers have been reporting large numbers of highly qualified applicants as a result of little or no advertising. This tells me drivers want to make a change, they just can’t because

carriers aren’t hiring.

Rim Yurkus of Strategic Programs Inc. conducted a multi industry survey and found that thirty percent of employees plan to make a change when the economy improves.

I believe the percentage for the transportation industry is much higher.

Many carriers are enjoying the lower turnover rates but haven’t done anything to cause the reduction or to keep it once the industry starts hiring. Now is the time to proactively address driver turnover and to work to build driver commitment. Those that don’t will see record turnover numbers as our industry starts hiring again.

pet of the month - Calli Calli stares out at the road watching for hazards, as Lisa Hall steers the rig down the road.

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Once Upon A time

by Sandy Long Once upon a time, dinosaurs lived on the earth, humans lived in caves, truck drivers were hard working, dedicated professionals who put the load and company first, and were some of the most respected workers on the road. Like the dinosaurs and cave people, the old time, old style driver is becoming extinct. What is killing off the old time driver? The new style of trucking is.

In the old days, a driver that made deliveries on time, no matter what, took care of the equipment, talked politely to their dispatchers, other office employees, and gave 110% were taken care of. Pay raises, new equipment, and bragging rights to being a top driver were the old time driver’s rewards, with perhaps a jacket for not tearing up the truck, or someone’s car, thrown in to boot. A driver knew where he or she stood in the company if they did a good job, There were heroes of legend on the road to think about, drivers who ran fast, experimental engine trucks, and many tales were told of their adventures over coffee. The old hands knew that they would never be like their heroes, but still a little bit inside of the driver wanted to be like them. A driver felt like a hero when he or she knew that they were designated top driver in their company.

Truck drivers were respected then, not feared. A little old lady in her broken down car knew that a trucker would stop and assist her. Children would stop playing to pump their arms to hear the air horns the driver would blow. Truck stop personnel of both genders would come out and wake a driver up with a cup of coffee without fear of getting beaten, Canadian Trucking Magazine

raped, or shouted at. Truck stops at night were lit with the running lights of 100’s of trucks idling so that the driver could sleep comfortably, no one complained of the noise or pollution, everyone knew a driver needed their rest.

Nowadays, things are radically different.

People are encouraged to enter the profession to be professional tourists, not professional drivers. Companies no longer acknowledge a driver as ‘top driver’ other than at award ceremonies and the driver is rewarded with monetary bonuses for doing their job; fuel, safety and performance…quarterly or annually. Like the companies themselves, this has changed the driver to being more concerned about the bottom line rather than taking pride in giving 110% or their own health and safety.

Talking to one’s dispatcher is no longer an option. Everything is going high tech with loads given over satellite systems and one puts one’s hours, comments or requests over them too. Gone is the voice at the other end of the line saying “Good job driver.” It is all impersonal now, drivers have become just the person who drives the truck; meat in the seat.

Drivers are caught between their dispatchers who want the freight delivered ‘just in time, and the company safety department who enforce HOS regulations while driving a too slow governed truck.

The dispatcher can get the driver fired if they are late on delivering a load, while the safety department can get the driver fired for not following the strict letter of the regulations. Where is the pride in a ‘damned if you do, damned if you don’t’ catch 22 situation?

Trucking has become so regulated that a driver is told when they are tired, or not tired, when it is too cold, too hot or just right for them to be comfortable in their trucks, and where they can or cannot park October 2009

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to catch a nap. Those same regulations have turned the trucking industry into a huge cash cow for many municipalities and states.

No longer do many children pump their arms to hear the air horns, and few truckers would notice to blow the horn anyways. Little old ladies in broken down cars look up in fear if a truck comes by. Truck stops are now travel centers and a driver cannot for the most part even get a free cup of coffee for buying $500.00 worth of fuel, much less get a wake up call while parked in the lot, the tourists get the freebies now. Truck stops in the night too are darker as more and more states have laws against idling the truck so a driver can rest comfortably.

Drivers turn down loads now because they have to do their laundry, or they have a headache. Even though showers are more available now than ever before, there is little pride in appearance and a lot of drivers look worse than the beggars at the off ramps of the interstates. Most companies no longer have dress codes and allow everything from cheek piercing to crack-showing sweat pants and flip flops.

Where are the legendary truckers that used to be around? They have died off and been replaced by nascar drivers and heavy metal bands. Now days, one no longer sees a huge round table of drivers laughing and telling tales over a cup of coffee, everyone is in too big of a rush, and too self centered to mingle and socialize. On the rare occasions one does get into a conversation with a driver, it isn’t about tales of legends, it is about griping about loads or how many times one scored with the opposite sex.

Once upon a time starts many a fairy tale, and before too much longer the old time truck driver will become just a faded memory of a time long ago when drivers were respected for the professionals they 28

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were and were treated accordingly. As an old time driver, I too am being slowly killed off by the new style trucking industry, and will fade away in time just like the dinosaur; but I will not go quietly. I will keep the memory of the old time driver alive the best I can in my writing. Who knows, fairy tales sometime come true, and perhaps some day in the far future, the old time type of driver will be appreciated once again.

Ya’ll be safe out there!

Sandy Long is a long time truck driver who is also very active within the trucking industry. She is a freelance writer for layover.com, a life member of OOIDA, member of the WIT and owner of two websites: Trailer Truckin’ Tech, a yahoo group dedicated to the education of new and prospective truck drivers and www.satinandsteelsisterhood.com for women in non traditional jobs. Sandy welcomes comments at ladygodiva1953@yahoo.com www.satinandsteelsisterhood.com Do not cuss a trucker or a farmer with your mouth full!

Hey driver, do you know who this is?

Turn to page 59 to find out!

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Performer Spotlight

Hailey McIsaac

Hailey performing live at the Manitoba Convoy for Special Olympics reception.

Hailey was born December 8th, 1994, and is presently in grade 10 at a French Immersion High School in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She is a self taught guitarist/singer and song writer, who just started playing last December. Hailey spends every free moment practicing her love of music with her guitar She is constantly learning new songs, and researching such artists as Taylor Swift.

She is happy to play and sing for people wherever she goes.

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Shauna is reminding us to make sure our mirrors and lights are clean before heading out on the road.

CTM Girl - Shauna

chase Standings tighten As Series Heads West DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — The Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup standings started with drivers bunched closely together points-wise. Three races into the Chase, little has changed.

Going into Sunday’s Pepsi 500 at Auto Club Speedway, the man everyone is trying to catch continues to be Mark Martin (No. 5 CARQUEST/Kellogg’s Chevrolet), as he is 18 points ahead of second-place, Jimmie Johnson (No. 48 Lowe’s Chevrolet), the three-time defending series champion. Martin has posted a series-leading and career-high seven poles plus five victories. But don’t be fooled, the rest of the top 12 are not letting Martin just walk away with the title.

A total of 190 points separate first place to 11th in the Chase standings, and only 99 points separate first to sixth – the closest points margin after the first three races of the Chase since the format’s inception in 2004.

And to boot, three different Chase contenders have won the first three races of the Chase – (Martin, New Hampshire; Johnson, Dover; and Tony Stewart (No. 14 Office Depot Chevrolet), Kansas).

“It just shows that you're going to have to be on for 10 weeks to win this thing, and if you have a bad day, there's going to be guys that are going to capitalize on it,” said Stewart.

This weekend, Auto Club Speedway welcomes its inaugural Chase race, and returning race winner Johnson could benefit. Johnson is tied with Gordon and Matt Kenseth (No. 17 R&L Carriers Ford) for a series-high three wins at ACS. Stewart Working two Jobs And climbing the Standings Of all the top 12 Chase contenders this season one of them has had a little more on his plate than the rest. Tony Stewart co-owns Stewart-Haas Racing and also drives the No. 14, and has been able to do both while competing for this season’s championship.

Stewart heads to California this week coming off a win at Kansas Speedway that moved him up one spot in the Chase standings to fourth and closed the points gap behind Mark Martin to 67-points. Stewart has posted four wins, 14 top fives and 20 top 10s this season with the help of his crew chief Darian Grubb.

“We knew going into the Chase it was a must win situation,” said Grubb. “You're going to have to win races against these competitors (top 12 contenders).”

Stewart heads to Auto Club Speedway this weekend having posted three top fives and eight top 10s. He has yet to win at the 2-mile track, but Stewart and Grubb are much more optimistic this time around at Auto Club Speedway, “We were still just learning each other going into California in the spring,” said Stewart.

“We've had time to make mistakes and make decisions that worked for me, and that's something that will help us definitely. I'm anticipating California a lot more this time than in the spring.”

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tony Stewart, driver of the No. 14 Office Depot/Old Spice chevrolet, celebrates in Victory Lane after winning Sunday's NAScAr Sprint cup Series Price chopper 400 presented by Kraft Foods at the Kansas Speedway. (Photo credit: Geoff burke/Getty Images for NAScAr)

After winning the Las Vegas 350, Johnny Sauter poses with the Las Vegas Motor Speedway showgirls in victory lane. (Photo credit: Harry How/Getty Images)

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Jack Lee President/CEO 4Refuel Inc. How do you choose the right fuel supplier?

Summer is over. The kids are back in school,

CHECKLIST to help you make the right

vacations are done and with fewer distrac-

decision…

tions now you can focus on making some improvements to your business. If you are

1) Reliability. Does the supplier guarantee

fuel-reliant this could be the time to find a

fuel delivery regardless of regional fuel short-

new supplier. Why? There are a number of

ages? Check their track history.

reasons. Most companies who upgrade have become tired of the hassles associated with

2) Convenience. Can they deliver 24/7, 365

refuelling, like fuel shortages, wasted time

days a year?

and production and all the associated risks.

3) Professional staff. Are their people well

If you aren’t happy with your current sup-

trained and certified?

plier this article will point you in the right direction.

4) ISO Certification. Do they adhere to stan-

First of all, if you are doing your own fuel

dardized operations and procedures?

acquisition there is a better way. We’ve talked about this before. All the time and hassle

5) Service guarantee. Can they grow and

compounds your costs giving you your true

adapt with your changing fuel needs?

cost of refuelling. It is a lot more than the price at the pumps. Is it worth the effort? The

6) Data capture capabilities. Are they on top

best solution is finding the right fuel supplier.

of current technology to supply you with de-

But how do you decide?

tailed fuel data, online reporting, docket review and all the information you need?

Here is an easy to follow TEN POINT Canadian Trucking Magazine

October 2009

39

7) Reconciliation. Do they have a committed support staff available to answer your questions fast?

8) Theft Prevention. Can the supplier provide anti-theft security, tank monitoring with remote service?

9) Environmentally responsible. How do they ensure safety in the workplace? What is their incident rate? Are they 100% accountable? If a spill occurs will they do the clean up?

10) National network. Are they capable of fleet refuelling between regions with data support for all your equipment and can give you support for business expansion?

Whew, that’s a long list, but if you invest some time now and choose the right fuel supplier you won’t be left high and dry. There will come a day this winter when your competitors are lining up for fuel while you go on with your business. In fact, if you’ve got the right supplier you won’t even know there’s a problem.

Jack Lee is CEO of 4Refuel – the largest onsite fuel management company in Canada and a global leader in technology designed to help businesses reduce their fuel expenses.

Got a question about fuel? Ask the fuel expert by emailing Jack at AskTheFuelExpert@4Refuel.com 40

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Joey Logano was involved in a spectacular accident going into Turn 3 on Lap 31 of the AAA 400 at Dover International Speedway. Logano rolled his car several times, but walked away from the accident with no injuries. (Photo Credit: Jerry Markland/Getty Images for NASCAR) Canadian Trucking Magazine

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Alvis Violo Emergency Road Services Of Canada Inc the Safety tip Adviser be extra careful At Night!

Did you know that traffic deaths are three times greater at night that during the day. Driving at night increases our chances of having a deadly accident by three times, as many of us are unaware of the special hazards of night driving or how to deal with these hazards.

erly aimed. Improperly aimed headlights blind other drivers and reduce your ability to see the road.

Darkness is the most obvious answer as to why night driving is so dangerous. A driver’s reaction is ninety percent dependant on vision which is severely limited at night. Colour recognition, depth perception and peripheral vision are all altered after sundown. Another factor adding danger to night driving is fatigue which lowers alertness and reaction time.

• Avoid smoking when you drive. Smoke's nicotine and carbon monoxide actually decrease your night vision.

• Don't drink and drive. Not only does alcohol severely alter your driving ability, it also acts as a depressant. Just one drink can induce fatigue.

• If there is any doubt, turn your headlights on. Lights will not

You can however, take several effective measures to minimize after-dark dangers by following the recommendations below.

• Prepare your vehicle for night driving. Keep headlights, tail lights, signal lights and windows clean (inside and out).

• Have your headlights prop42

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Canadian Trucking Magazine

help you see better in early twilight, but they'll make it easier for other drivers to see you. Being seen is as important as seeing others.

• Reduce your speed and increase your following distances as it is more difficult to judge other vehicle's speeds and distances at night.

• Don't overdrive your headlights. You should be able to stop inside the illuminated area. If you are not, you are creating a blind crash area in front of your vehicle.

• When following another vehicle, keep your headlights on low beams in order to prevent the blinding of the driver ahead of you.

• If an oncoming vehicle doesn't lower their beams from high to low, avoid glare by watching the right edge of the road and using it as a steering guide.

driving safety tips as soon as the sun goes down. Twilight is one of the most difficult times to drive, because your eyes are constantly changing to adapt to the growing darkness.

Although we can not avoid night driving and it’s hazards, by following the above recommendations, we should all be a little safer on the road.

Drive safe, think positive, and be prosperous.

Alvis Violo is the C.E.O. of Emergency Road Services Of Canada Inc., a coast to coast national roadside assistance company dedicated to the trucking industry in Canada. For more information visit www.ersofcanada.com or call 1-877377-2262.

Please send your questions, feedback or comments about this column to alvisviolo@ersofcanada.com.

• If you're too tired to drive, it is very important to stop and get rest.

Make frequent stops for light snacks and exercise.

• If you have a breakdown, pull off the road as far as possible. Warn approaching traffic at once by setting up reflecting triangles near your vehicle and 300 feet behind it. Turn on flashers and the dome light. You should also stay off the roadway and get passengers away from the area.

One final point is that we should all begin to implement the above night Canadian Trucking Magazine

Hey driver, do you know who this is?

Turn to page 59 to find out!

October 2009

43

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watched a movie and went to sleep.

In the morning we delivered the load, then we went to Portage la Prairie. At an oat factoy we swept and vacumed the trailer, and then we dropped the trailer off.

After we headed to Winnipeg and went to the head office and met all the people their. We then got a load to Edmonton, Alberta.

On our way there, my mom met us in Shoal Lake to see my Dad, Duke, and I. A Week With My Dad

by Jessica ritchie My dad and I left Sunday July 26, 2009.

On the first day it was sad, but we had our dog duke so it wasn't that sad. When we left Manitoba there was alot of nothing, but then we crossed the Saskatchewan border then we started to see some towns.

After Sakatchewan we went to Alberta.

We got stopped at the Dunemore chicken coop (well that's what truckers call it but it is really a weighing station), that’s when the guy there let me play around in the DOT car. We stopped in Calgary to sleep, but I

had a chance to see Medacine Hat before night time, they have the worlds largest teepee.

From Calgary we went to Taber, Alberta.

In Taber we went to a sugar factory; it was cool - the suger factory was huge. From Taber we went to Regina and slept their at the Husky. In the morning we went to a dairy factory in Brandon. When we got to brandon we played mini golf because we were a day early. Then we ate at subway, and we went back to the truck where we Canadian Trucking Magazine

When we left, Duke was whining because he thought he was going home. We slept at a place out in the middle of nowhere. We stoped in at a truck stop to eat lunch. It rained lots when we were going to Edmonton. When we got to Edmonton it was night time so we slept at the truck stop, and droped off the load the next morning.

When we went back to the truck stop we had to stay there for a day because the company my dad works for didn't know where we had to go. So we wached movies all day, and let my dog out alot of the day. That

night I couldn't sleep because I was hot, then cold, hot and cold all night and my Continued... throat hurt alot of the time.

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In the morning my dad went in to the truck stop to get coffee, and i slept alot of the day, because I was tired from the night of tossing and turning.

To go home, my dad drove all day with the occassional stops her,e and there, finally we got home around 12:00 am on August 1, 2009.

I hope i never bored you yet because now i am going to tell you about a truckers life.

To be a trucker you have to have a class 1 lisence. You have to know all of the cities, towns, roads, highways and you have to know where you are at all times. You also

have to know all of your bosses, do your best in your work, and make it look professional as much as you can.

You eat when you stop, or eat while your driving. It is alot of money, and you get paid every week, so your pay has to last you a week. The hardest thing to be a trucker is that you are always on the road, and hardly get to see your family. You also have to know how to speak trucker language; all I know is a gater a blown up tire on the side of the road. To be a trucker it is harder than you think. My dad is a true trucker.

su-do-ku 1 7

RATING: MEDIUM

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8 2 9

7 8 2

2 6 4 1

3 6 9

4 5

Complete the grid so that each row of nine squares, each column, and each section of nine(three squares by three) contains the numbers 1 through 9 in any order. There is only one possible solution to each puzzle.

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Mission: Women In Trucking was established to encourage the employment of women in the trucking industry, promote their accomplishments and minimize obstacles faced by women in trucking.

The organization is an active group that finds opportunities to promote the accomplishments of women in the industry.

This organization has been created for you, both men and women, who are either involved in the industry, or have a career interest in being a part of one of the largest networks of professionals in North America. Nearly one out of fourteen workers are already employed in jobs that support the transportation industry, but the need for drivers and other trucking professionals continues to increase.

You can become a member of Women in Trucking by completing the application.

Your support of this non-profit organization will help us provide the needed resources to encourage women to become employed in the trucking industry. Additionally, your dues will help us to motivate the transportation industry to look closely at any obstacles that might prevent women (and men) from considering a career in trucking. Our goal is to provide a greater understanding of some of the special challenges women face on the road. From restroom parity at loading docks, to ergonomically designed cabs in the trucks, women often find themselves faced with obstacles that might not be obvious to those who found them acceptable in the past.

Thank you for your interest in Women In Trucking.

We look forward to serving you and supporting your career in the transportation industry.

Ellen Voie President/CEO Women In Trucking PO Box 400 Plover, WI 54467-0400 1-888-GO4-WITA (1.888.464.9482)

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Word Search Massachusets Features

American Elm Bay State Beantown Berkshires Boston Cambridge Cape Cod Charles Chikadee Concord

Canadian Trucking Magazine

Fisheries Harvard Lexington Mayflower Nantucket Plymouth Salem Vineyard Williamstown Worcester

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not limited to women. In fact, currently, twenty-one percent of our members are men. If you think about it, you don’t need to be a dog to join the humane society, do you?

South Dakota Features What do women want? The Arbor Day Foundation doesn’t require t h a t I you’re a am tree to support their efforts.

ellen Voie CAE President/CEO Women In Trucking, Inc

Word Search

often asked to explain what issues women in the truckAberdeen ing industry have that are Bowdie different from men. The Brookings answer is, “none.” Every Clark one of the concerns that Deadwood our members have affects Gold Mine both men and women.

Huron So, why doMadison women need Missouri River their own association?

They don’t!Mitchell Despite the

O u r members include anyone w h o supports our mission; Women In Trucking was established to encourage the employment of women in Mount Rushmore trucking industry, promote their acOnida complishments and minimize obstaPierre cles.

Rapid City Are thereSioux issuesFalls that are unique to women? Spearfish No, but there are issues that Sturgis affect women more than they affect Vermillion men. These are some of the concerns weWatertown are focusing our efforts on Yankton and working to alleviate. Let’s look

name, “Women In Trucking,” our membership is

at some of the top obstacles women face in the trucking industry.

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Permits, road conditions, and Weather resources bc road conditions bc Permits

1-800-550-4997 1-800-559-9688

Alberta road conditions Alberta Permits

http://www.drivebc.ca/

http://www.transportation.alberta.ca/611.htm 1-800-662-7138

Saskatchewan road conditions http://www.highways.gov.sk.ca/road-conditions/ Saskatchewan Permits 1-800-667-7575 Manitoba road conditions http://tgs.gov.mb.ca/roadinfo/Default.aspx?AreaID=100&ln=en-CA For access by telephone call (204) 945-3704 or 1-877-MBRoads (1-877-627-6237).

Manitoba Permits Phone: (204) 945-3961 Toll-Free: 1-877-812-0009 Ontario Permits http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/trucks/oversize/index.html Head Office Tel: 416-246-7166 or 1-800-387-7736, Dept 4 Fax: 905-704-2545 Ontario road conditions http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/traveller/conditions/ Quebec Permits 514 873-7620 in MontrĂŠal or 1 800 361-7620. http://www.mtq.gouv.qc.ca/portal/page/portal/accueil_en/faq/permis_speciaux Nova Scotia Permits http://www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/smp/ Phone: 1-800-898-7668 (Toll-free in NS) or (902) 424-5851 Nova Scotia road conditions http://www.gov.ns.ca/tran/winter/roadconditions.asp New brunswick Permits https://www.pxw1.snb.ca/snb7001/e/2000/2006e_1.asp New Brunswick Road Conditions http://www.gnb.ca/0113/roadcond/dist-map-e.asp 1-800-561-4063 Newfoundland road conditions http://www.roads.gov.nl.ca/cameras/default.stm PeI road conditions http://www.gov.pe.ca/roadconditions/index.php3?map=off NWt permits http://www.dot.gov.nt.ca/_live/pages/wpPages/services_commercial_permits.aspx NWt road conditions http://www.dot.gov.nt.ca/_live/pages/wpPages/roadConditions.aspx Yukon road conditions http://www.511yukon.ca/ canada Weather http://weatheroffice.gc.ca/canada_e.html U.S. weather http://www.nws.noaa.gov/ 56

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It’s Terri and Denis form the Redbull in Radisson, Sk!

It’s mike and Jen with the Calgary Husky mascot!

It’s Tina, Jaimie, and Val at the Regina Husky!

It’s Courtney at the Yellowhead Truck Lube and Wash in

It’s Faye, Willy, and Steph at the OK Tire in Whytewood!

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CANADIAN HOURS OF SERVICE SUMMARY Driving/On-Duty Time

- A driver cannot drive after being on duty for 14 hours in a day, unless the driver is deferring off-duty time to the next day.

- The driver also must not drive exceed 13 hours of drive time in a day.

- The driver cannot drive after the 16 hour window has ex pired.

- The driver may not start a new work shift unless 8 con secutive hours off-duty have been completed.

Off-Duty Time

- Drivers are required to take at least 10 hours off-duty time each day.

- At least 8 consecutive hours of off-duty must be taken be fore commencing the driver’s work shift. The 2 additional hours of off-duty time can be taken in minimum 30 minute increments. A period of off-duty that is 15 minutes or less must be logged as on-duty.

Splitting the Sleeper Time - A single driver is allowed to split the sleeper berth time into two breaks, providing that the two breaks equal 10 hours, and that neither split is less than two hours in length.

- Team drivers are allowed to split sleeper time into 2 breaks as well, but the total time taken must be at least 8 hours, The 2 breaks must each be 4 hours in length, and the additional 2 hours must be taken during the day in minimum 30 minute breaks. It is acceptable for the driv ers to take the breaks in the sleeper berth.

16 Hour window

- A driver may not drive after 16 hours after the work shift began. If the driver started a shift at 6:00 a.m., all driving, and other on-duty activities must be completed by 10:00 p.m.

Off-duty deferral

- Providing the driver has taken 8 consecutive hours of off-duty time, the 2 hour time remaining can be delayed until the next day. Total driving time for the 2 days must not exceed 26 hours, and total off-duty time must equal at least 20 hours. The driver must indicate on the log sheet the first deferral day, and the second deferral day.

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“Quotables�

A life spent making mistakes is not only more honorable, but more useful than a life spent doing nothing.

- George bernard Shaw I would never die for my beliefs because I might be wrong.

- bertrand russell When a girl marries, she exchanges the attentions of many men for the inattention of one.

- Helen rowland Make three correct guesses consecutively and you will establish a reputation as an expert.

- Laurence J. Peter the unexamined life is not worth living.

- Socrates recession is when a neighbor loses his job.

Depression is when you lose yours.

- ronald reagan I've done the calculation and your chances of winning the lottery are identical whether you play or not.

- Fran Lebowitz I'm 65 and I guess that puts me in with the geriatrics. but if there were fifteen months in every year, I'd only be 48. that's the trouble with us. We number everything. take women, for example. I think they deserve to have more than twelve years between the ages of 28 and 40.

- James thurber the value of a man should be seen in what he gives and not in what he is able to receive.

- Albert einstein 62

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U.S. HOURS OF SERVICE SUMMARY Driving/On-Duty Time

- A driver may drive a maximum of 11 hours after taking 10 consecutive hours off duty - The driver cannot drive beyond the 14th hour after coming on duty, follow ing 10 consecutive hours off duty - The driver may not drive after 70 hours in 8 days.

Off-Duty Time

- A driver may restart a 7/8 consecutive day period after taking 34 or more con secutive hours off duty.

- CMV drivers using the sleeper berth provision must take at least 8 consecu tive hours in the sleeper berth, plus 2 consecutive hours either in the sleeper berth, off duty, or any combination of the two.

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