Volume LXXVIV | Number 8 | August 2013
The Voice of the Trucking Industry in Pennsylvania
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How CSA Affects Your Insurance Program
PMTA Membership Engagement Study Joint Project with Indiana University of Pennsylvania Small Business Development Center
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Volume LXXIV | Number 8 | August 2013
DEPARTMENTS: The Voice of the Trucking Industry in Pennsylvania Official Monthly Publication of the PMTA 910 Linda Lane, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania 17011-6409 Telephone: 717.761.7122 | Fax: 717.761.8434 Visit our website at www.pmta.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS James Germak, Chairman of the Board Rebecca Summers, First Vice Chairman Stephanie Fleetman, Vice Chairman Timmy Nelson, Vice Chairman Matthew Campbell, Vice Chairman John Keagel, Treasurer
Chairman's Message ���������������������������������������������������������� 5 TruckPAC Recognition ������������������������������������������������������� 16 Top Legislative Issues ������������������������������������������������������� 16 Seminar Schedule ������������������������������������������������������������ 21 Membership Reports
President’s Prize ��������������������������������������������������������� 22
Welcome New Members ��������������������������������������������� 22
Crossword Puzzle ������������������������������������������������������������� 24 PMTA Chapter Activities ���������������������������������������������������� 23
Gladys Knox, Secretary Calvin Ewell, ATA Vice President Calvin Ewell, Immediate Past Chairman Paul Berg Charles Bernier Joseph Butzer Douglas Marcello Patrick Meehan Scott Pauchnik Ron Uriah Paul Yerk PMTA HEADQUARTERS STAFF James W. Runk, President and CEO Heather Clements, Membership Coordinator Doris Fee, Financial Consultant Wendy Palermo, Title and Registration Agent and Member Services Dean Riland, Assistant General Manager Carol Smore, Event Coordinator Kevin Stewart, Safety Director Nancy Wilkes, Communications Director PennTrux editor: Nancy Wilkes (nwilkes@pmta.org) Published by:
On the Cover 717.238.5751 Sarah DiCello, Publications Manager (sarah@thinkgraphtech.com) For Advertising Information: Alexis Kierce, Account Manager (alexis@thinkgraphtech.com) PMTA is an affiliate of the American Trucking Associations Annual PENNTRUX subscription rate for members of PMTA is $8.00; included in dues.
Page 14
The Compliance Safety Accountability (CSA) initiative has now been in effect for over two years and changed how many people do business with the trucking industry.
INSIDE PENNTRUX...
8
17
PMTA Membership Engagement Study
The Drive for Better Health
PMTA and Indiana University of Pennsylvania recently conducted a member survey.
The latest on driver health and wellness initiatives.
6
EEOC and Criminal Background Checks A look at how the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) impacts the use of criminal arrest and conviction records in the hiring process.
13
City Transfer, Inc. City Transfer, Inc. in St. Marys is celebrating its 90th anniversary.
19 20
Driver Fatigue The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) recently announced the launch of the North American Fatigue Management Program website.
Choosing the Right GPS FMCSA provides a guide to helping you choose the right GPS for your needs.
SafetyCheck
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Transportation Industry Insurance Specialists Over 40 YearsSpecialists of Service Transportation Industry Insurance Over 40 Years of Service Experience That Counts When You Need It OnWhen and Off the Road Experience That Counts You Need It On and Off the Road
���� ���� ���� ���� AMERICAN
Charlie Bernier › Scott Nuelle
TRUCKING
Kevin Forbes
A S S O C I AT I O N S
›
AMERICAN TRUCKING
A S S O C I AT I O N S
888-313-3226 | www.ECBM.com Charlie Bernier, President 888-313-3226 www.ECBM.com Charlie Bernier, President 888-313-3226 www.ECBM.com 526802_ECBM.indd 1 526802_ECBM.indd 4 PENNTRUX
1
4/18/11 2:35:29 PM 4/18/11 2:35:29 PM
A Word From The Chairman PENNSYLVANIA MOTOR TRUCK ASSOCIATION
MISSION STATEMENT The Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association was organized to promote the common business interests of persons engaged in the motor transportation industry. It is dedicated to effectively representing the concerns of the trucking industry to members, government and regulatory agencies, and the general public. PMTA has further pledged to assist member companies in managing the impact of change in the trucking industry, and to enhance the professional and economic growth of its members. The Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association’s primary functions are as follows: n
n
n
o work with the Legislature T and regulatory agencies to foster, promote and preserve a strong economic climate for trucking in the Commonwealth. o partner with the T enforcement agencies to develop and support safety initiatives that protect the motoring public. o provide a forum for T continuing education through seminars, workshops and conferences.
n
o disseminate positive T industry information to the press promoting the industry.
n
o be available to our T members for personal assistance whenever the need arises.
Jim Germak, Jagtrux, Inc. Ranking Perceived Importance and Focus Competition for drivers across the industry remains high. The American Trucking Associations just announced that driver turnover at large and small truckload and less-thantruckload carriers rose in the first quarter on an improving economy. ATA said turnover at large truckload fleets with more than $30 million in annual revenue rose to annualized 97% rate from 90% in the fourth quarter. Turnover at small truckload fleets rose to 82% from 76% in the previous quarter. That matches the 2012 average but is below the most recent high of 84% in the third quarter of last year. In the LTL sector, turnover increased to 15% in the first quarter, the highest level since the fourth quarter of 2005, from 10% in the previous quarter. The fear is that competition for drivers may be exacerbated by losses in productivity caused by recent regulatory changes in the hours-of-service rules. ATA’s chief economist, Bob Costello, said, “If the economy continues to improve as we expect it to, we’ll see competition for drivers intensify, which will increase not just the turnover rate and exacerbate the driver shortage, but will push costs for fleets higher as well.” PMTA recently completed a member survey, and what we discovered is that the issues members rank as most important don’t match the issues the staff and board of directors rank as most important. The driver shortage is the top issue according to PMTA staff. However, PMTA members don’t rank it in the top five; in fact, they rank it 10th in a list of 21 issues. The top four issues that members feel are most important are as follows:
The Board of Directors ranked the top four this way:
The PMTA staff’s top four list is as follows:
1. Public perception
1. CSA scorecard
1. Driver shortage
2. CSA scorecard
2. Fuel prices
2. Economic impact
3. Fuel prices
3. Economic impact
3. Fuel prices
4. Driver health
4. Driver retention
4. Counseling and advice
Findings from the survey represent valuable input pertaining to both PMTA’s products and services and a promotion strategy. Our next step is to develop an issue priority list for PMTA to focus on. We have a special task force assigned to this job, and we’ll report on what it comes up with. Since driver health is a top issue for members, be sure to read the article on page 17. It discusses some of the options companies can use to improve employee health. And plan to attend the driver health and wellness fair on Tuesday, Sept. 17, at TA/ Petro in Harrisburg. PMTA is participating in a nationwide driver health event on that day, organized by the Truckload Carriers Association; at least 14 other state trucking associations are holding health fairs that day. That week is National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, which is an excellent time to focus on driver health. PMTA is planning demonstrations, presentations and health screenings for the event. Watch for details of the event soon.
PENNTRUX 5
EEOC and Criminal Background Checks By Jennifer Mulligan, Marcello & Kivisto, LLC
I
n April, 2012, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) updated its Enforcement Guidance on the Consideration of Arrest and Conviction Records in Employment Decisions under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The updated guidance impacts the way employers, in the hiring and promotion process, use criminal arrest and conviction records of prospective employees. While employers may still conduct criminal background checks, an employer should not disqualify an individual solely on the individual’s criminal record until the employer conducts an individualized assessment involving a dialogue with the individual. Employers should consider implementing the following practices to help ensure compliance with the guidelines.
Target Screen: Employers should eliminate all blanket policies and/or practices that exclude a person from employment and/or a promotion based on the person’s criminal history. Instead, employers should develop a target screen that takes into consideration the “Green Factors” (Green v. Missouri Pacific Railroad, 523 F.2d 1290 (8th Cir. 1975). Those factors are: (1) the nature and gravity of the criminal offense(s) (for example whether the offense was a felony or misdemeanor); (2) the time that has passed since the conviction and/or completion of the sentence; and (3) the nature of the job held or sought. The nature of the job sought means the employer should take into consideration the job duties, the level of supervision to be provided, the working environment (for example, in the transportation industry, will a driver be making deliveries to a private home, 6 PENNTRUX
business, or school), interaction with others, and the relationship between the criminal history and the job to be performed. It is important that for each job posting an employer, prior to starting the hiring process, determines the types of convictions that may justify the exclusion of an applicant from the posted position. If a person’s criminal past is not relevant to the job applied for, the person should not be excluded solely because of their criminal past. Furthermore, as illustrated above, the employer should determine the length of time that has passed between the crime and application process that is appropriate to exclude an applicant from the position. In order for an employer to protect itself from a potential lawsuit, every step of the hiring process should be heavily documented (for example, during the target screen, employers should document the data and rationale behind the decision to conduct the screen). Therefore, if an employer denies a person employment and/or promotion based on the applicant’s criminal record, the employer will be able to show a nexus between the person’s criminal record and position sought. This very important step could potentially protect an employer from defending against a costly frivolous lawsuit.
Individualized Assessment: An employer should also initially conduct an individual assessment of all applicants who were filtered out from the target screen. While the guidance acknowledges that there may be some circumstances in which an employer
Saturday, Sept. 15, at the Clipper Stadium in Lancaster. Buffet dinner begins at 6 p.m., and the game starts at 7 p.m. The Lancaster Chapter is subsidizing ticket pricing for the first 750 tickets, so the cost is only $20 for adults and $5 for children aged 5-12. Children under age could justify useinclude of only Green 4 are free. Thethe fun will facethe painting, a Factors, the EEOC strongly encourages balloon artist, truck display, bumper boats and a picture booth. Sponsorships are available. that employers conduct individualized To register, go toThe www.pmta.org or contact assessments. individualized Kelly Hawthorne, 717-492-0743, assessment should always include Kelly.hawthorne@fsitrucks.com.
notice to the applicant that their criminal record caused the employer Lehigh Valley Chapter - In June, some the PMTA Board of Directors approvedagainst reactivation of the concerns (this protects error in Lehigh Valley Chapter. Patrick Meehan from the record or mistaken identity) as well Mack Trucks is organizing the reactivation as an opportunity for the applicant to and is looking for information from PMTA explain the circumstances of the crime members about what interests them. A kick off and conviction. meeting is planned shortly after Labor Day. For information, contact Meehan at 610-351-8771,
When conducting the individualized Patrick.meehan@macktrucks.com. assessment, the employer should North Chapter – The picnic take intoCentral consideration theannual following: is set for Wednesday, Aug. 8, at Haywood’s inaccuracies in the criminal record, on the the Water, 610 Antlers Lane, Williamsport. facts or circumstances surrounding Dinner will be served from 5 p.m. on. Several thevendors offense or conduct, the number of will display tractors and other products. offenses for which the individual was Tickets are $25 per person, and all reservations convicted, age of the at the are firm andthe must be paid. Youindividual must make your reservation Aug. 1 For reservations/tickets, time of the by conviction, evidence that the contact Ralph Rodgers atthe 717-322-6719 or Jay individual performed same type of McCormick at 717-220-6148. work after the conviction with no known incidents of criminal conduct, the length Central Chapter meeting is Thursday Aug, 2, at the Original Italian 105 S. Logan Blvd., and consistency of Pizza, employment history Burnham, at offense 6:30 p.m. Dean Riland, before andbeginning after the or conduct, PMTA’s Safety Director will give updates on rehabilitation efforts, employment or topics including new hours-of-service rules for character reference and any other 2013 and medical card certification through information regarding the will fitness PennDOT. Other discussions focus for on a job, andand/or whether themembers individual bonded topics speakers wouldislike to see ataupcoming Chapterbonding meetings. program. Please try under government to think of what would benefit the chapter, and
If an not cooperate haveapplicant some ideas does ready. Several members of and the chooses not to attended providea the Central Chapter Call additional on Harrisburg recently and will that trip andmake PMTAthe information, thediscuss employer can TruckPAC and itsbased importance. Theinformation New hiring decision on the Chairman of PMTA, Jim Germak of Jagtrux, already provided. has made one of his immediate goals to boost
PMTA membership. will discussthat how our Arrest Records: It isWe important
chapter mayalways help withremember that effort tothat achieve employers a the Chairman’s goal. For information, contact person is presumed innocent until Matt Campbell, mhc@camel-express.com. proven guilty; therefore, employers should avoid the use of arrest records. It should be stressed that some states actually prohibit the use of arrest records in employment decisions. Thus, when27 PENNTRUX making a hiring decision, it is extremely important to be familiar with your state’s law regarding hiring procedures. It is also important to note that the guidance does recognize that an employer can make an employment decision based on the conduct of the underlying arrest if the conduct makes the individual unfit for the job position sought. For example, if an applicant is arrested for negligent manslaughter by vehicle, a transportation company could potentially, depending on the job position sought, screen out that applicant based on that arrest.
Confidentiality: Always keep an applicant’s criminal record confidential. Applicant records should be maintained at all times in a confidential location with access limited to those people who have the authority and a need to look at the information.
Timing: It is always important to be conscious of when you are inquiring about an applicant’s criminal history. It is recommended to avoid inquiring about said history on job applications. A better procedure would be to inquire about any criminal history at a later date, such as the interview. This is a good company policy because it can help protect the company from being accused of blanket polices, while also giving the applicant a chance to explain their criminal history. PENNTRUX 7
PMTA Membership Engagement Study 8 PENNTRUX
Joint Project with Indiana University of Pennsylvania Small Business Development Center L
ast fall, the PMTA board subcommittee on membership and marketing set out to investigate ways to attract new members. After discussing numerous options, committee members realized they must first find out what makes PMTA membership important and relevant. A survey is the best way to gather that information, and the committee decided to ask college business/marketing students for help in designing and administering a survey. Gladys Knox of Wright-Knox Motor Lines, chairman of the membership committee, has served on several other boards with Steve Osborne, director of the Small Business Development Center at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. The SBDC is an organization within the Eberly College of Business that provides no-fee management consulting, specialized training programs and technical assistance to small businesses. Knox and Nancy Wilkes, PMTA’s communications director, met with Osborne to discuss a student consulting project. He agreed to offer a project for PMTA as one of several students could select. Four SBI students elected to tackle the PMTA project to obtain information as a first step in creating a strategic marketing plan. The primary means of gathering information was through a survey to members, board of directors and staff. After discussing some of the issues to be included in the survey, the students quickly realized the survey must stay a reasonable length or the members wouldn’t invest the time to fill it out. Additionally, it needed to be intuitive and easy to understand. The decision was to ask a series of questions relating to the importance and PMTA’s focus on different aspects of the industry, ranging from economics to public opinion. To gauge response to the survey questions, students decided to use a fourpoint Likert Scale, a scale commonly used in surveys and questionnaires that asks survey takers to rate their response to a given question on a scale of one to four. A mid-point (neutral) response option was not included to avoid a central tendency response pattern.
the value of the organization. Results are also intended to enable PMTA to understand what is important to members as compared to staff and board views on a variety of topics. To achieve these objectives, the SBI team researched and compiled various areas of PMTA’s services. • Safety and regulation • Economics and employment issues • PMTA services • How long a member • Age of owner • County the business is located in • Type of freight • Revenues • Issues and comments. The survey that was distributed to the board of directors and staff was identical to the members’ survey except the entire demographic questions toward the end were left out. Students sent about 1,500 emails with the survey link, and 17% responded. They spent about 179 hours conducting relevant industry research, developing and administering the survey, and analyzing results. On May 13, Knox and Wilkes went to IUP for a presentation of the students’ “PMTA Membership Engagement Project.” The top four issues members feel are most important consist of: 1. Public perception 2. CSA scorecard 3. Fuel prices 4. Driver health
The results were intended to help PMTA keep members better engaged, attract new members, and increase PENNTRUX 9
The issues staff and BOD regard as most important are very different. This chart shows the importance rank according to each group surveyed.
Survey Results Consolidated - Importance Member
Issue Public Perception CSA Scorecard Fuel Price Driver Health Insurance Cost
Importance 3.55 3.53 3.52 3.51 3.44
Member 1 2 3 4 5
3.42 3.42 3.41 3.41 3.38 3.34 3.33 3.29 3.23 3.23 3.22 3.09 3.06 3.01 3.00 2.87
6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21
Economic Impact Driver Retention Advocacy – State Infrastructure Driver Shortage Advocacy – Public Advocacy – Federal Traffic Congestion Advocacy – Local Counseling and Advice Programs/Seminars Electronic Recording Newsletter PennTrux Website Emissions
Importance Rank BOD Rank Staff Rank 11 8 1 9 2 3 12 17 6 19 3 4 7 15 5 8 10 19 9 13 16 14 17 20 21 18
2 11 13 10 1 14 18 12 15 4 5 20 16 6 7 21
It is notable that the members are at odds with the BOD and staff when it comes to the importance of public perception and driver health. The survey also asked respondents to rank the PMTA focus given to each issue. This chart shows a compilation of the issues of the perception of PMTA focus, from most to least amount.
Survey Results – Consolidated - Focus Member Issue PennTrux Advocacy – State Newsletter CSA Scorecard Public Perception Economic Impact Counseling & Advice Advocacy – Public Advocacy – Federal Fuel Price Infrastructure Driver Health Advocacy – Local Programs/Seminars Electronic Recording Emissions Traffic Congestion Driver Retention Website Driver Shortage Insurance Cost
10 PENNTRUX
Focus Rank Focus 3.43 3.42 3.41 3.38 3.32 3.32 3.31 3.29 3.28 3.26 3.25 3.25 3.23 3.22 3.19 3.19 3.18 3.14 3.12 3.09 3.06
Member 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21
BOD 10 3 13 15 12 4 2 11 6 1 8 19 14 21 16 7 9 18 5 17 20
Staff 3 12 4 1 9 10 6 19 7 11 2 8 18 5 13 20 21 16 17 15 14
This chart ranks the issues from 1 to 21 based on how important members perceive and then assesses the level of focus relative to the importance each issue receives. The staff indicated that overall, the importance versus focus does not have a gap. Driver shortage is an area where all three groups feel there needs to be more focus. PennTrux is an area where there is a large gap between staff and BOD and members.
–
–
Member Issue
Member
BOD
Staff
Importance Rank Focus - importance Focus - importance Focus - importance 1 -0.23 -0.29 0.20 2 -0.15 -0.71 0.20 3 -0.27 -0.14 -0.20 4 -0.26 -0.57 0.00 5 -0.38 -0.71 0.00 6 -0.10 -0.14 -0.20 7 -0.28 -0.57 -0.20 8 0.01 0.00 0.00 9 -0.16 0.00 0.20 10 -0.29 -0.57 -0.40 11 -0.05 -0.29 -0.20 12 -0.05 0.00 0.40 13 -0.11 0.29 -0.40 14 -0.01 -0.43 -0.20 15 0.07 0.29 0.00 16 0.00 -0.29 0.00 17 0.10 -0.29 0.40 18 0.35 0.14 0.20 19 0.42 0.57 0.00 20 0.12 0.86 -0.40 21 0.32 0.29 0.20
Public Perception CSA Scorecard Fuel Price Driver Health Insurance Cost Economic Impact Driver Retention Advocacy – State Infrastructure Driver Shortage Advocacy – Public Advocacy – Federal Traffic Congestion Advocacy – Local Counseling and Advice Programs/Seminars Electronic Recording Newsletter PennTrux Website Emissions
The response of PMTA was respectable. There is an immense amount of data and results that can be considered in aggregate, by topic, and/or very discrete portions (issue-by-issue). For example, any one of 21 particular issues has information on importance, focus, and focus-importance for each of the three constituent groups. This equates to 189 discrete, potentially actionable results (excluding aggregated results – by topic, for example). These results should be useful for the formulation and implementation aspects of a marketing plan. They represent valuable input pertaining to product/service/ and promotion strategy. Results from the survey provide a valid perspective of what issues PMTA members think are important and how well they feel PMTA is focused on these issues. While the results don’t give a great deal of in-depth information as it relates to the issues, they do provide a framework for PMTA to engage with members and further explore the issues highlighted by the survey.
Areas of Large Membership Focus/Importance “Gaps” should be carefully evaluated: Member Importance Issue Rank Public Perception CSA Scorecard Fuel Price Driver Health Insurance Cost Economic Impact Driver Retention Advocacy – State Infrastructure Driver Shortage
Member Focus Importance
1
-0.23
2
-0.15
3 4
-0.27 -0.26
5 6
-0.38 -0.10
7
-0.28
0.01 -0.16 -0.29
8 9 10
Areas of incongruity between the Members and BOD/Staff need to communicated and considered in decision making:
Member Issue
Importance Rank
Importance
Member BOD Rank Staff Rank
Public Perception
3.55
1
11
8
CSA Scorecard
3.53
2
1
9
Fuel Price
3.52
3
2
3
Driver Health
3.51
4
12
17
Insurance Cost
3.44
5
6
19 PENNTRUX 11
Some insight we gained is the disagreement between the BOD and staff on importance and focus on certain issues. The BOD members are working in the industry, and the staff is focused on managing the association. If the BOD and staff were to jointly develop an issue priority list, it would help to capture the industry insight the board has, and ultimately better align PMTA’s focus with the issues that are most important to the industry and members. Students recommended we consider the use of the ABCD Customer Window to evaluate priorities: Attention
Bravo
(Insurance costs)
(CSA scorecard)
Importance to Member
Don’t worry, be happy
Cut or communicate
LOW
(Emissions)
HIGH
(Newsletter and Penntrux)
LOW Member’s Perception of Focus HIGH
PennTrux and the website and Service Letter are the means of delivering PMTA’s message and can contribute to the perceptions of the membership. Consequently, these vehicles (which are NOT of a high level of importance to members) should be evaluated and promoted in and of themselves. PMTA hopes to work with the SBI students in the fall to develop a marketing plan. To prepare for the next step, a specially created task force will do the following: • Develop an issue priority list for PMTA to focus on • C onsider areas of low member focus (communicate or cut) • C ommunicate areas of high member importance to BOD and staff The goal is ultimately to better align PMTA’s focus with issues that are most important to the industry and our members.
“Top 10 List” of Member Issues Member
Issue Public Perception CSA Scorecard Fuel Price Driver Health Insurance Cost Economic Impact Driver Retention Advocacy – State Infrastructure Driver Shortage
12 PENNTRUX
Importance Rank 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Member Focus Importance -0.23 -0.15 -0.27 -0.26 -0.38 -0.10 -0.28 0.01 -0.16 -0.29
City Transfer, Inc.
The Salters’ legacy – 90 years and four generations of transportation services
C
ity Transfer, Inc., in St. Marys, has logged a lot of miles in reaching its 90th anniversary. In 1923, Frank Salter and his sons Carl Salter and Roy Salter purchased the Am Schlimm Trucking business located on Market Street. It included two chain-driver Mack trucks. The new owners renamed the business “City Transfer Co.” and relocated the property to Rosely Road. Many still referred to the company as Salter Brothers Trucking. On July 17, 1940, City Transfer purchased the Kohn property on Washington Street, and they purchased the title to the building in the rear. They would conduct business from this location for 29 years. At this time, the company became area agents for Mayflower, the long-distance van line. In 1963, Carl purchased the business, and in 1966, City Transfer became incorporated with Carl’s son, Carl Jr., and his wife Inez, and two sons, Dan and Jeff, becoming sole owners. They purchased the property on Brussells Street in 1967 and built the present building. In 1995, they built an addition. City Transfer is currently owned and operated by Dan and Jeff Salter. As a boy, Carl Jr. was a runner for the company. It was his job to relay telephone messages that came in Kaul Avenue to the trucking location on Rosely Road. He grew up with the company, eventually becoming a mechanic and driver. When moving family furniture, mirrors would have to be removed from vanities and packed separately. Carl Jr. would mark the date of the move inside the mirror brackets with pencil; some families were moved many times.
harvests, logs for Corbett Cabinet, sawdust from Corbett to the county home for cattle stalls, paper for the Daily Press, lumber for the CCC Camps being built in Elk and Cameron counties, and general dray work for both the Pennsy and Shawmut railroads. They also hauled meat from Armour Star Cold Storage in DuBois to markets in St. Marys, Ridgway and Johnsonburg. City Transfer has also been a source to turn to in times of emergency, such as during big fires at the hospital and Corbett Cabinet, when its trucks were used to help rescue whatever it could from the flakes. During flood times, the trucks hauled merchandise from store basements and sales rooms to dry locations. The company has interstate operating authority in 48 states, intrastate operating authority to all points in Pennsylvania, and performs long distance and local transportation. It has been a member of PMTA since 1934. They said they are very proud of the fact that City Transfer, Inc. has seen four generations of Salters and still has the same name after 90 years, a unique feat in the age of company buyouts and changing ownership. There is no secret to the company’s success, just old-fashioned hard work and a strong commitment to the Golden Rule.
Since its inception, City Transfer has played an important part in the history of St. Marys by conducting a wide variety of general hauling, such as moving families to new locations, hauling farmers’ hay and PENNTRUX 13
On the Cover How CSA Affects Your Insurance Program
By Kevin Forbes, Sales Executive, ECBM Insurance
T
he Compliance Safety Accountability (CSA) initiative was rolled out in 2011 with the purpose of continuing to lower the large vehicle related accident death rate on our nation’s highways. It has now been in effect for over two years and changed how many people do business with the trucking industry. The SafeStat model, the safety measuring tool used by the federal government prior to CSA, was very ineffective and had a lot of glitches that proved it to be of little value to anyone trying to measure a motor carrier’s safety history. CSA, while still in its infancy, is already being used much more comprehensively than its prior model. While the statistics may not currently support CSA’s mission to lower the accident rate involving large commercial vehicles, and the safety initiative may still be too young to truly measure its effectiveness, motor carriers have to comply with this strict set of regulations in order to keep the costs of doing business down. CSA is being used increasingly more for risk management purposes, and by insurance carriers to underwrite a motor carrier’s safety history. From a risk management stance, trucking companies’ customers are intensely reviewing every motor carrier they do business with to see what their CSA scores are and how they compare to the rest of the industry. This is because various courts have found liability in hiring a motor carrier with known safety issues and violations. If a shipper or freight broker does not perform their due diligence in reviewing their transportation provider’s safety record, and they hire what a court deems is an unsafe motor carrier, then that shipper or freight broker
can be found to be vicariously liable for the actions of that motor carrier. So to protect themselves, customers are scrutinizing over a motor carrier’s safety record much more than they have in the past. Another area where the trucking industry is being affected heavily by the new CSA measure is insurance pricing. It used to be that insurance company underwriters had just a few things to review when looking at a transportation risk. They would ask for an application, company specific loss information, vehicle and driver schedules, and not much else. Now the federal government has given underwriters more information then they know what do with, right at their fingertips. And, they are using it! We know that the SMS database is used by the federal government to collect, store and sort safety information collected by the enforcement agencies. The new system divides the safety areas into seven BASIC categories (Behavioral Analysis and Safety Improvement Categories): • Unsafe Driving • Hours of Service • Driver Fitness • Controlled Substance & Alcohol • Vehicle Maintenance • Hazardous Substance Compliance • Crash indicator Information collected during the roadside inspections and DOT compliance audits is used to promote safety by rating carriers in these areas. But by monitoring these scores, insurance companies are identifying what they perceive to be problem motor carriers and to develop pricing on acceptable ones. Underwriters who provide trucking companies with automobile liability, cargo and workers compensation coverages are analyzing this information that is made available to the general public. Each insurance company has a different methodology when pricing different risks. So each insurance company interprets differently, and places various levels of importance on each piece of information.
14 PENNTRUX
Insurance companies are digging into the specific outof-service violations within each category, and not just the scores given by the CSA measurement system. Insurance companies are modeling all of the available data in the SMS database with the goal of identifying behavioral indicators for high crash rates. One big area of concern has become brake violations. In a recent example of this, a trucking company who had good loss experience and overall good CSA scores was declined because of the number of brake violations they had showing on their SMS page, even though most of them did not put the vehicle out of service. This particular insurance carrier saw a correlation between high brake violations and a motor carrier’s crash indicator rate. Hours-of-service violations continue to be an issue for insurance carriers. Drivers who do not adhere to the hours-of-service rules can cost your company in the long run. If a driver is found to be over their hours of service when they are involved in an accident, the difficulty in defending against this claim increases, even if the third party involved was clearly at fault in the accident. Insurance carriers have been surcharging trucking carriers for these violations since the old SafeStat model. However, now they can identify what the specific issues are. If they see that drivers are constantly falsifying their logs or not keeping them current, then this will raise a red flag. For the Controlled Substance and Alcohol BASIC category, even one violation is enough for an insurance company to decline to quote a motor carrier. There are several insurance companies whose underwriting guidelines automatically decline a risk if there is any type of violation involving drugs or alcohol.
to their customers. There are many safety systems, equipment, and training programs available to help reduce exposure to loss. Monitoring CSA scores and violations and conducting claim reviews and loss analysis to identify the types of accidents or occurrences are a critical component of the risk management services a trucking company needs. More than most industries transportation and logistics companies need an insurance broker who is a specialist in the field. Make sure you have one.
Kevin Forbes is a Sales Executive for ECBM Insurance. He is an insurance broker specializing in the transportation and logistics industries, as well as companies in the financial services, construction and information technology industries.
This trend of increased underwriting will likely continue as the CSA program provides insurance carriers with long-term data trends and the ability to better predict crashes. With predictive modeling programs already in use, it is imperative for motor carriers to review their CSA scores and attempt to improve any BASIC category score where might be necessary. Many vendors who sell to the trucking industry see the need for greater safety involvement on their part. Truck dealers and manufacturers are providing better maintenance programs and ways to help in the vehicle maintenance category. Vehicles can be equipped with new technologies such as lane departure warnings, GPS systems, rollover warning devices, driver behavior monitoring devices, and more. Insurance brokers who service the trucking industry should offer additional risk management services PENNTRUX 15
Top Legislative Issues T
he American Trucking Associations identified top legislative issues. It will continue to focus on these issues, as will PMTA.
Stabilization of the highway trust fund: ATA supports increasing the fuel tax to stabilize the HTF and restore the “users pay” principle, so long as the additional funds are used to fund our nation’s highway infrastructure.
CSA oversight: ATA encourages Congress to oversee
• F MCSA does not assign safety fitness determinations to motor carriers based on SMS scores unless peer reviewed research confirms a strong correlation between such scores and crash risk.
Truck productivity increases: ATA supports giving states more flexibility to authorize the operation of more productive vehicles and modernizing the length standards on the National Network.
and guide FMCSA’s Compliance Safety Accountability program to ensure:
Comprehensive tax reform
• M otor carriers’ Safety Measurement System scores in each of the measurement categories bear a strong statistical relationship to future crash risk, based on peer reviewed research;
on new trucks and trailers and replacing the tax with an equivalent increase in the diesel fuel tax.
• C SA considers only crashes that a motor carrier caused or reasonably could have prevented; and
FET: ATA supports repealing the 12% federal excise tax
Oversight of MAP-21 implementation: ATA encourages the Committees of jurisdiction in the Senate and House to closely oversee implementation of the new highway act to ensure deadlines are met and the Department of Transportation follows Congressional intent.
TruckPAC Recognition The trucking industry faces challenges on many levels. In such critical times, we need to maintain a firm and unified voice. Legislators face thousands of bills every year, and PMTA’s Political Action Committee and lobbyists make sure they understand how new laws affect our industry. You can help maintain and increase our political visibility and strengthen our positive force in forming policy. By donating to TruckPAC, you enable us to maintain our high profile and defeat, support and/or alter laws that have an impact on your businesses. To contribute to TruckPAC, contact PMTA at 717.761.7122.
Platinum ($1000 +) Don Bowman Calvin E. Ewell Stephanie Fleetman Brian Fulmer Wayne S. Herr Sheila M. Horwith
Samuel Lansberry McNees PAC Richard Adams Mellon J. Harold Summers Rebecca Summers William T. Ward
Gold ($500-$999) William Burns Joseph A. Butzer and Elizabeth A. Hamilton John Conrad Michael and Debbie Herr
Jeffrey S. Johnson John H. Summers Charles L. Whittington Gladys Wright Knox Kenton J. Good
Silver ($250-$499) Harvey Daniel Alderfer Drew and Kerri Behmer Larry D. Bender 16 PENNTRUX
Karl Gontkof Ken and Cindy Kametz Grant S. Markley
Ronald and Pamela Bowman Harold L. Brake Thomas M. Brown Kevin Forbes Phil and Cyndi Garber James Germak
Michael Redden W. Robert Renner Jay Shaub David A. Shumaker Kimberly M. Wise R. Frank Campbell
Bronze ($25-$249) Abom Kutulakis, LLP G. Frank Arters Paul Berg Charles Bernier Paul Bitting James Michael Boring Troy Boring Matthew Campbell J. Daniel Frock Richard and Alma Galasso Lester and Mary Good Kelly S. Hawthorne Dennis R. Howell Wayne E. Inners Samuel Kieffer George Kress Marcello and Kivisto, LLC Milliron Associates PAC
Alexander Manna Christian Manna Gerald J. Manna Earl R. Martin Landis Martin Jay H. McCormick Samuel Nucifore, Jr. Pitt Ohio LLC Joseph J. Poplawski Matthew Rhoads Craig Risser Douglas E. Rosbach David Spera Curtis N. Stambaugh Gary E. Whistler Gary S. Wright Barry and Karen Young John Wensel
This list includes contributions from January 1 through June 30, 2013. Your contributions to TruckPAC allow our association to have a stronger legislative voice. TruckPAC contributions should be sent to: PMTA, 910 Linda Lane, Camp Hill, PA 17011.
The Drive for Better Health D
river health and wellness is one of those lofty goals all commercial carriers say they strive to achieve. Yet most carriers, even those who treat their workers well, feel they are doing what they can in this area, but not all they might. The buzz about driver health in recent years has inspired some positive changes. But the fact is that commercial drivers continue to have a high prevalence of chronic health problems and a low utilization of health resources. Traditional health promotion programs are ineffective, and the lifestyle challenges seem insurmountable. First, there is the nutrition and diet — truck stop food is less than optimal for health. Then, there is the place and time to exercise, plus inadequate access to showers after exercise. There are sleep and rest requirements. Drivers have limited access to health care. The work environment is brutal — they sit in the truck for long periods of time then have a period of high physical activity when unloading. There is also the vibration and discomfort of driving all day. And, of course, many drivers spend long periods of time away from home. How are you going to get people who don’t come into an office every day engaged in a company wellness program?
“Fleets spend millions on fleet maintenance. It’s time to spend some on human maintenance.” Mark Everest President and CEO of Occupational Athletics, Inc.
Research shows that a commercial driver’s life expectancy is 61, 16 years earlier than the average American. Of 100 drivers, 90 do not exercise, 77 eat fewer than five fruits and vegetables a day, 54 smoke, 50 are overweight or obese, 34 have high cholesterol, 26 have high blood pressure, 11 binge drink, 6 are chronic drinkers, 10 are depressed, 9 have diabetes, and 8 have had a heart attack or stroke. An overwhelming majority of the diseases they have are preventable. Seventy-five cents on every dollar spent on healthcare is spent on treating preventable diseases like diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. Trucking companies cannot afford to pay for this type of health care; they must change the risks.
As the industry gets more sophisticated about managing health care costs, companies are experimenting with many approaches to health and wellness programs. Ryan Olson, Ph.D., from the Oregon Health and Science University, developed a program called SHIFT (Safety and Health Involvement For Truckers) that focuses on behavioral self-management. This evidence-based approach was supported with behavioral computerbased training and motivational interviewing health coaching. So far, the results suggest this approach is substantially more engaging and effective than previous education-based efforts to promote health with drivers. Olson said 90 percent of the general population lacks the skills to manage their own health. Social networking is an effective way to increase health literacy. Twenty percent of owner operators in the SHIFT program used social networking features. Mark Everest, president and CEO of Occupational Athletics, Inc., a Harrisburg-based corporation that specializes in the prevention of injuries and illness for corporations and industry, developed the Road Athlete training system. He believes drivers have to train their bodies and prepare for their jobs, like athletes, so the program has a game book focused on specific factors that relate to life on the road, such as nutrition, staying motivated, conquering substance abuse, managing sleep and preventing fatigue, maximizing your personal time, and safety measures. He said, “Fleets spend millions on fleet maintenance. It’s time to spend some on human maintenance.” Blue Shield of California has a program called Wellvolution, an interdisciplinary approach, treating wellness as personal. Everyone is at a different level of readiness, so coaches meet you where you are, give you the tools you need, and then continue with you. It focuses on four areas that, if managed, will reduce the prevalence of major preventable diseases such as coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer. Those areas include healthy eating, emotional well-being, get moving and tobacco free. In just three years, they have seen industry high participation, engagement and risk reduction.
National Truck Driver Appreciation Week National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is September 15-21, 2013. During this time, we will honor all professional truck drivers for their hard work and commitment in tackling one of the most demanding and important jobs. PENNTRUX 17
Sperian Protection, a global manufacturer of personal protective equipment such as safety eyewear, hearing protection, protective gloves, respirators, and fall protection, has achieved 96 percent active employee participation in its wellness and prevention programs. It spent $100 per employee per year on these programs; as a result, its health claims costs are about $650 per employee lower than national benchmark averages, and they have seen an estimated $1,300 per employee reduction in productivity lost due to health problems over the last five years. About 80 percent of Sperian’s 1,270 employees aren’t in an office. Sperian has achieved these results by offering incentives and mandating program participation. All employees had to take health risk assessments in order to get health care coverage. An analysis of a 238-employee control group over four years showed a 27 percent reduction in the number of employees classified as “high risk” and a 64 percent improvement in the number of employees classified as “low risk” among those who participated during the entire study period. Sperian’s vice president of human resources, Michael Vittoria, said, “Identify a few high risk factors in your claims data. Select those factors that employees show a readiness to change. Design your health plan to encourage involvements. Start with a highly visible program. And use easy-to-measure things.” Con-way Freight and Wellness Coaches USA have collaborated on the planning and implementation of an intense, comprehensive and highly effective workplace wellness program. The program provides for more than 10,000 Con-way Freight employees, working form 83 separate terminals in 30 states throughout the country. More than 75 percent of eligible employees participating in the program are commercial truck drivers. The program has been implemented using Wellness Coach USA’s “coach embedded” onsite delivery methodology. For Con-way, that means there are 43 wellness coaches, one special program coordinator and a dedicated nutrition specialist. In Con-way locations where they had a wellness program in place for at least one or two years, they saw a decrease of 4.3 percent in workers’ compensation claims. In a one-year period where they had coaches that had influence over about 4,000 employees, those employees interacted with the wellness coach more than 74,000 times. And they did it on a strictly voluntary basis. Of those 4,000 employees, 172 quit smoking, and more than 2,600 went on a weight reduction program, losing more than a combined 6,000 pounds. Drivinghealthy.org, a website co-sponsored by Travelers and Northland Insurance, was developed by the Center for Truck and Bus Safety at Virginia Technology Transportation Institute. The site has health 18 PENNTRUX
and wellness information targeted toward commercial vehicle drivers, with tips for healthy eating, maintaining health and passing the CDL medical screening. Users can build a personalized plan, including dietary assistance, exercise and activity planning and tracking, disease prevention and management, and much more. The site has an extensive video library and mobile applications as well. Many health insurance providers have programs to help companies establish wellness programs. The options are varied, but the important thing is to start somewhere. Work on small choices and small changes, and build from there.
Driver Health and Wellness Fair Tuesday, September 17, 2013 TA/Petro Truck Stop – Harrisburg Truckload Carriers Association is partnering with TA/Petro and state trucking associations to host health fairs around the country, on Tuesday, September 17. PMTA is participating in this nationwide event. We are planning a driver health and wellness fair on Tuesday, Sept. 17, from 3 to 7 p.m. at the TA/Petro truck stop in Harrisburg (I-81, exit 77). The fair will feature health screenings, demonstrations on stretching and relaxation techniques, tips on how to exercise near a parked truck, information on smoking cessation, healthy eating on the road, seatbelt use, games, music, snacks, and much more. All events are free, so plan on sending your drivers and join the celebration.
For more information, call 717.761.7122 or visit our website, www.pmta.org.
Driver Fatigue Newly launched website provides one-stop shop for commercial driver fatigue management
T
he American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) recently announced the launch of the North American Fatigue Management Program website, www.NAFMP.com. The NAFMP provides a comprehensive approach to commercial driver fatigue management including:
The NAFMP website represents the culmination of a decade of research, development and testing of a comprehensive fatigue management program. Substantial financial and in-kind support was provided by the NAFMP partners including ATRI, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Transport Canada, Alberta Motor Transport Association, Alberta Occupational Health and Safety, Alberta Transportation, Alberta Workers Compensation Board, Commission de la santé et de la sécurité du travail du Québec and Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec.
• O nline fatigue management training for drivers, drivers’ families, carrier executives and managers, dispatchers and shippers/receivers; • I nformation on how to develop a corporate culture that facilitates reduced driver fatigue;
ATRI will manage the NAFMP website on behalf of the NAFMP partners.
• I nformation on sleep disorders screening and treatment;
“It is rewarding to see ATRI’s 10-year involvement in the research and development of the NAFMP come to fruition,” commented ATRI President Rebecca Brewster. “The NAFMP website will be a one-stop shop for carriers of all sizes to address the important issue of driver fatigue.”
• Driver and trip scheduling information; • Information on Fatigue Management Technologies. The NAFMP website also includes a Return-onInvestment calculator that allows motor carriers to estimate the cost-benefit of deploying the NAFMP in its entirety or select components in a customized program.
ATRI is the trucking industry’s leading 501(c)(3) not-for-profit research organization. It is engaged in critical research relating to freight transportation’s essential role in maintaining a safe, secure and efficient transportation system.
All of the NAFMP information and training is available on the website free of charge for interested parties.
The experience you need – the service you deserve Northland customers can drive with confidence knowing their claim will be handled by people specializing in truck liability, physical damage and cargo losses. Here are just a few ways we get it done: •
Technical specialists to handle your claim
•
Convenient toll-free 24/7 claim reporting
•
Unmatched customer service
•
Fast service to reduce your downtime
Call your agent or broker, or visit us online at northlandins.com.
© 2013 The Travelers Indemnity Company. All rights reserved. M-16993-4 New 11-12
Northland is a proud member and supporter of the Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association.
PENNTRUX 19
SafetyCheck Choosing the Right GPS Provided by FMCSA
I
t is important to understand that not all navigation systems are the same. That is why it is critical for truck and bus drivers to use the right navigation system when operating a commercial truck or bus. By using a navigation system that does not provide important route restrictions, such as low bridge overpasses, the shortcut you thought would save you time and fuel may end up costing you more than you bargained for. A typical system that a consumer might buy at an electronics or auto parts store may not have software programming to show low bridges, hazmat routes and other information relevant to commercial motor vehicle operators.
Selection Guide For Systems CMVs GlobalGPS Postioning Did You Know... Not all global positioning systems (GPS) are created equal. Some navigation systems are designed specifically for commercial truck and bus drivers.
Why does it matter which navigation system you use? If you use a navigation system that does not provide you with important route restrictions, such as low bridge overpasses, the shortcut you thought would save you time and fuel, may, in fact, end up costing you a lot more money than you bargained for! That’s why it is critical that you use the right GPS navigation system when you operate your commercial truck or bus on our Nation’s roadways.
Thanks for putting safety first!
Learn more tips
Tips for safe use of GPS navigation systems Global Postioning Systems
FMCSA offers a visor card to help truckers choose the right GPS. It can be found at http://www.fmcsa.dot. gov/about/outreach/education/gpsvisor-card.aspx. The visor card gives tips for safe use of navigation systems, and can be downloaded free-of-charge.
Select a GPS navigation system intended for use by professional truck and bus drivers. Before you begin your trip, type in all relevant information about your vehicle so the system can provide you with the appropriate route, including:
lbs
Your vehicle’s length, width and height Your axle weights Hazardous materials you are transporting
Follow the route recommended by the navigation system.
Always obey traffic signs and advisories (such as low bridge overpasses, axle weight limits, etc.) — especially if they provide restrictions the navigation system did not warn you about. Do not engage in distracted driving! Avoid typing or entering addresses or information into the GPS while driving. Not all GPS systems automatically update maps — be sure to update your maps often so that you are following the most current route planning information.
www.fmcsa.dot.gov The visor card provides tips on FMCSA-ADO-13-007 selecting the proper navigation system designed for trucks and buses, and the correct use of the navigation systems. For example, in order for the navigation system to provide you with the appropriate route, truck and bus drivers should enter all relevant information such as:
vehicle’s length, width and height; axle weight; and any hazardous materials being hauled. By following the recommended route, obeying traffic signs and not driving while using a cell phone or texting, tragedies can be prevented and lives saved on our roads and highways. The information above was obtained from the FMCSA website www.fmcsa.dot.gov.
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PMTA 2013 Seminar Schedule Recognition of Substance Abuse Training for Supervisors – Presented by PMTA Seminar includes discussion and videos to help in determining reasonable suspicion of alcohol misuse and/or use of controlled substances by employees. The training meets the federal requirements of Part 382.603 – 3 HOURS
Tuesday, October 29, 2013 – 9:00 am – 12:00 pm $100 – member $185 – non-member Hours-of-Service Compliance Seminar – Presented by PMTA Seminar includes review of 49 CFR, Part 395, related interpretations and exemptions, along with work projects on familiarization and auditing a driver’s Record of Duty Status (logbook) – 5 HOURS
Tuesday, October 22, 2013 – 9:00 am – 3:00 pm $150 – member $225 – non-member DOT Compliance Seminars – Presented by PMTA Attending this class will better prepare you for compliance to CSA. The seminar will include discussion and overview of state and federal laws and regulations governing the motor carrier industry and commercial motor vehicles e.g. driver qualifications files, commercial driver licenses, hours of service, drug and alcohol tests, etc. Each attendee will also receive the management edition of the current FMCSR Handbook.
Tuesday, September 10, 2013 – 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Tuesday, November 19, 2013 – 9:00 am – 4:00 pm $150 – member $225 – non-member Motor Fleet Safety Basics/Managing Motor Fleet Safety Programs – Presented by NATMI This is a comprehensive course on all aspects of fleet safety.
October 1 – October 5, 2013 – 8:30 am – 5:00 pm $1475 OSHA General Industry Outreach Training Program – Presented by PMTA and Great West Casualty Company The program is intended to provide instruction on a variety of general industry safety and health standards. This is a 10 hour certificate course. Course completion cards do not expire.
Required 2-day attendance Thursday, September 26, 2013 and Friday, September 27, 2013 – 9:00 am – 3:00 pm $225 – member $325 – non-member All seminars are presented at PMTA Headquarters, 910 Linda Lane, Camp Hill, PA 17011 unless otherwise noted For any questions or REGISTRATION FORMS, call PMTA at 717.761.7122 or e-mail Carol at csmore@pmta.org Register online at www.pmta.org/seminar
New Address? I f you have a new address, phone number or email address, please let PMTA know. We want to make sure you continue to receive news and information that help you as a trucking industry professional. Use this form to notify us of any changes. Old Address _____________________________________________________________________________________________ Name ___________________________________________________ Company ______________________________________ Phone ___________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________ New Address ____________________________________________________________________________________________ Name ___________________________________________________ Company ______________________________________ Phone ___________________________________________________ Email __________________________________________ Return this form to PMTA, 910 Linda Lane, Camp Hill, PA 17011, or fax to 717.761.8434 PENNTRUX 21
President’s Prize Each year, PMTA’s president awards a special prize to the person who has excelled in sponsoring new members during the membership year (May 1, 2013 to April 30, 2014). Recruiting new members for PMTA isn’t difficult. When you are talking to colleagues or clients, mention how you benefit from PMTA membership. PMTA member companies have a greater driver retention rate than non-member companies, a fact that is sure to resonate with any trucking company. On behalf of its members, PMTA communicates daily with the Pennsylvania State Police, DEP, Department of Revenue, PUC, FMCSA and many other agencies that affect your businesses. PMTA can help you stay current on the hot issues and can be your backup system for information on regulations, rules, taxes, drug tests, environmental regulations and much more. If you need more information on how PMTA can benefit a business, contact us at 717.761.7122. Current PMTA members are the best advocates for the association. Everyone in the trucking industry needs to be concerned about your business, the industry, the state and the nation. Join PMTA in the forefront in battling those who
propose rules and fees and mandates that would cripple companies and the industry. The President’s Prize is based on a point system — three points for a new carrier member, two points for a new trade member and one point for a new associate member. The prize is a navy blue blazer with the PMTA keystone logo and two free registrations to PMTA’s Annual Management Conference, excluding meals, hotel and activity costs. Any employee from a PMTA member company may compete for the prize. Only paid-in-full memberships that have the sponsoring member’s name written in the space provided will be recognized. Sponsor’s names cannot be changed once they are submitted to state headquarters. The statistics are current as of July 9, 2013
Sponsor Company Chapter Total Shawn Cassell
Mainline Excavating, Inc
South Central
3
Mark Laurusevage Great West Casualty Co.
Northeast
2
Brian Becker
York/Adams
1
FedEx Ground
Welcome New Members PMTA takes pleasure in welcoming the following new members who have enrolled in April and salute those who secured them. Any new member not listed with an individual sponsor was secured by State Headquarters or a PMTA chapter. All new members are from Pennsylvania unless otherwise noted. (Chapters are in parenthesis) Andrew Souder Souder Trucking Inc., New Kingstown (South Central)
Be Seen. Be Heard.
Kris Huber Hubco Transfer, LLC, Hegins (Lehigh Valley)
John Lewis Hunter Keystone Peterbilt, LP, Butler (Southwest)
Member of the Month Congratulations to Shawn Cassell chosen as PMTA’s July Member of the Month. Shawn is a member of the South Central Chapter, and we all applaud his efforts. You, too, can be eligible to become Member of the Month. Each month, any member who has recruited a new member will be entered into a drawing, and from that drawing a Member of the Month will be chosen and will receive special recognition in Penntrux and an award from PMTA.
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To advertise in this publication contact Alexis Kierce, Account Manager alexis@thinkgraphtech.com
717.238.5751
thinkgraphtech.com
Chapter/PMTA Activities The North Central Chapter’s annual summer picnic is Wednesday, Aug. 7, starting at 4 p.m. at Hiawatha Pavilion, Susquehanna State Park, 2205 Hiawatha Blvd., Williamsport. Cost is $25 per person. For more information, contact Kelly Baier, 570.326.6555, or kbaier@mpvhlaw.com. Please join the Lancaster, South Central and York/Adams chapters for a special open house, hosted by Utility/
Keystone Trailer Sales, Inc., in Manheim on Thursday, Oct. 17, 5-8 p.m. Dinner buffet is 5-6:30 p.m. Industry specific vendors will display, and there will be door prizes and an iPad giveaway. The event is free. To register or for more information, please visit www.utilitykeystone.com/pmta2013.
The Lancaster Chapter’s annual family picnic is Saturday,
Sept. 14, at the Clipper Stadium in Lancaster. Enjoy a picnic and a ball game. For more information, contact Kelly Hawthorne at kelly.hawthorne@fsitrucks.com or 717.492.0742.
The Driver Health and Wellness Fair is Tuesday, Sept. 17, at the TA/Petro in Harrisburg. This is part of a nationwide event, coordinated by the Truckload Carriers Association, during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. Plan to attend and participate in health screenings, demonstrations, games and fun. The fair is 3-7 p.m., and it is free to attend. The 2013 TruckPAC golf outing is Wednesday, Sept. 25, at Armitage Golf Club in Mechanicsburg. Foursomes are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration begins at 10 a.m., followed by lunch. Shotgun start is at 11:45 a.m., with dinner and awards following at 5 p.m. Cost per golfer is $125, and that includes green fees, cart, full use of practice facilities, lunch, tee gifts, refreshments on the course, and dinner. Your participation is important to the industry throughout Pennsylvania because proceeds benefit PMTA’s TruckPAC, our political action committee. Funds generated will allow PMTA to continue our high visibility in the state capital. Sponsorships are available. For information, go to www.pmta.org or call 717.761.7122. PMTA’s Safety Management Council meets monthly on the third Thursday of each month except for during June, July and August. The next meeting is Sept. 19. For additional information, contact Dean Riland at PMTA, driland@pmta.org. The National Truck Driving and Step Van Driving Championships are August 20-24 at the Salt Palace
Convention Center, Salt Lake City, Utah. Pennsylvania’s team of nine champion drivers will compete with other top drivers from around the country. We wish them all the best.
Kevin Stewart, PMTA’s safety director, demonstrates a roadside inspection. He presented a training session at Napa Transportation in Mechanicsburg recently. Approximately 50 Napa employees and guests were at the training. Kevin is available for training at your facility, at the PMTA headquarters, or at a convenient location and can present on topics ranging from hours-of-service compliance to hiring practices. Contact PMTA for details. PENNTRUX 23
PennTrux August Crossword By Myles Mellor
Crossword by Myles Mellor
Myles Mellor is one of the top crossword writers in the world, publishing more than 100 crosswords and puzzles each month. He has published over 6,000 crosswords in newspapers, magazines, electronic devices and websites in the U.S. and internationally and has published numerous crossword books in Barnes and Noble and Books a Million stores nationwide.
Across 1. Behind your truck (4 words) 9. Itch-making cab companion 10. Lower left, for short 12. Speeding ticket, abbr. 13. ___ accidents! 15. ASR (another term for it) 16. Cleaning equipment 18. "The One" star, Jet 19. Take a break 22. Jiffy Lube's specialty (2 words) 24. Dynamite 25. Relaxed, in a way 27. Writer 28. Manchester locale 29. TV set (2 words) 31. Group of trucks 34. Accountant 35. Lazy person 37. Sign, a contract 38. Front of the trailer 41. Watches 42. Strange 43. ___ Mahal 45. Company abbreviation 46. Total weight of a loaded vehicle 48. Circular highway 51. Poison __? 53. Had a meal at home (2 words) 56. Engine part 57. ____ Knievel 58. Newport locale 59. Audio visual (abbr.) 60. Weirdest 62. ___ scouts (State police) 63. See 47 down 64. Self concept Down 1. Highway patrol with lights on 2. Mile marker on the road side 3. __ target 4. Park City locale 5. ____ out- tire oops! 6. The greatest boxer 7. Truck with no power 8. Evil warrior in "The Lord of the Rings" 11. ____ gate 14. ____ and hook 17. Went to "McDonalds"
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18. Miller ___ 20. Finish 21. ____over (forward control) 23. Very large load 25. 10-23 26. Weight measurement 30. Operation, for short 32. Marvin or Van Cleef 33. CB radio (2words) 36. ____ Vu: Denzel Washington movie 39. Song 40. Estimated travel time, for short 44. Absent without leave, for short 47. Drunk driver (goes with 63 across) 49. Twin 48 foot trailer, for example (abbr.) 50. ____ tractor 52. Manchester locale 54. Sea motion 55. Provided that (2 words) 56. Dylan or Marley 57. Rapper 59. __, shucks 60. French gold 61. For example
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Sentry Insurance and Agency Name:
WITH YOU FOR THE LONG HAUL We understand that trucking isn’t just a business. It’s a way of life. Protecting your truck and keeping it on the road is your number one priority. It’s our number one priority, too. That’s why we offer more coverages – so you can choose what works best for you.
Sentry Insurance Pennsylvania Sales 1-877-832-1835 transportation_agentsupport@sentry.com Property and casualty coverages are underwritten by a member of the Sentry Insurance Group, Stevens Point, WI. For a complete listing of companies, visit ForTruckersOnly.com. Policies, coverages, benefits and discounts are not available in all states. See policy for complete coverage details. 75-590F
958461 07/17/12