New Mexico Trucking Magazine - Winter 2016

New Mexico NMTA ADDS TO

ANNUAL EVENT

Meet the 4-Corners Santa Fe - 2016 Session Wraps Up

New Mexico New Mexico Trucking is the official publication of the New Mexico Trucking Association and published four times per year by RJ Five LLC. For subscription information, please contact RJ Five at (505) 407-2151 Publisher Ryan L. Davis RJ Five LLC rdavis@rjfive.com

Contributing Writers Lori Harris Cathrynn N. Brown State Representative, District 55 Bruce Macrea

Graphic Design RJ Five LLC.

Wayne Sonchar

Executive Editor Johnny R. Johnson New Mexico Trucking Association jrjohnson@nmtrucking.org

New Mexico Executive Director – Johnny R. Johnson jrjohnson@nmtrucking.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Wayne Sonchar BTU Block

Secretary / Treasurer Larry Knippel Danlar Collision

1st Vice President Stan Grant Holly Frontier

ATA State Vice President Bruce Mac Rae United Parcel Service

2nd Vice President Sam Bagby Groendyke Transportation

Chairman Raul Garcia Mesilla Valley Transportation

Conference Chairs Truckload Carriers Danny Crawford Wild West Express

Heavy Haulers Henry Pachecho Pachecho Trucking

Private Carriers Mike Van Horn US Food Service

Allied Members Scott Klinkhammer Rush Truck Centers

LTL Carrier Todd Kellerstrass Conway Freight

Towing & Recover Anthony VanderVossen Holms Wrecker Service

Oilfield South Jonas Armenta Western Refining

CDL Testing & Training Maury Tiehen San Juan College

Beverage Haulers Scott Long Premier Distributing

Safety Management Council Lori Harris Western Assurance

An Affiliate of the American Trucking Association NMTA is the voice of the commercial truck and bus operators in New Mexico. The NMTA represents member carriers in legislative and regulatory matter before local, state and federal government. The association works to ensure laws and regulations affecting the trucking industry are fair and balanced. The NMTA also educate members regarding laws and regulations and promotes safe operations and good practices to ensure members remain a healthy and viable par of New Mexico economy.

Find us Online! www.nmtrucking.org

WINTER 2016 / 3

In This Issue 6

Directors Desk

8

Presidents Podium

10

From the Roundhouse State Rep. Cathrynn N. Brown, District 55 (Eddy County) Chair, House Transportation & Public Works Commitee

12-14 Stepping Into The 4-Corners 18-19

2016 New Mexico Truck Driving Championships

20

Behind the lights

22

National Watch

24

SMC Bulletin

26 28

NMTA Calendar

28

Advertising Index

12

4 / New Mexico Trucking

Truckers Against Trafficking

16

Directors Desk

A

Annual

2015 in the rear view mirror...

Golf Classic

s always, we start the year off with 2015 legislative session in Santa Fe. There was and interesting twist this year though as the republicans had control of the house for the first time in decades. The NMTA had over 25 bills we were tracking, all of which were related to the trucking industry. Additionally, we introduced 4 of those 25 bills that will help the industry on many levels. The 60-day session started off with tension in the air and it never left. The entire session was poorly debated and we ended up with what many deemed the least productive session since 1949. None of our bills saw the light of day, and sadly, hardly anyone else’s did either. The session got stuck on one area of debate that took up most of the time.

4-MAN SCRAMBLE GOLF TOURNAMENT

Although the weeks spent in Santa Fe with hardly any positive outcome seems to be a rough start, I looked back over the past year and am energized by the accomplishments of 2015. This will no doubt have a motivating factor as we move along.

Here are some of the things we accomplished last year: 2015 Annual Event 2nd year at Isleta Resort and Casino Annual Golf tournament at Isleta Lakes - over 110 players Rush Enterprises $168,000 Peterbuilt, hole-in- one prize Rich Ford 2015 - 4X4, F150 crew-cab, hole-in-one prize Summit Truck Yamahas Viking SUV’s provided by bobby J’s of Albuquerque, hole-in-one prize Walwork Financial Insurance Yamahas Viking SUV’s provided by bobby J’s of Albuquerque, hole-in-one prize Annual business meeting Lt. Governor, honorable, John Sanchez open up as the keynote speaker First annual Veterans Job Fair Lt. Governor opened our first Annual Veterans Job 2014 New Mexico Truck Driving Championships 104 contestants Two-thousand spectators and participants Annual Awards Banquet Congressman Steven Pearce was the keynote speaker 500 individuals attended State Representative, Monica Youngblood attended State Representative, Bobby Gonzales attended Secretary, Alan Martinez of the Veterans affairs New Mexico attended Major Highlights of 2015: Began our 1st annual SuperTech in New Mexico and sent a Rush employee to the national competition Worked with NMDOT on major port of entry changes Addressed title 18 major changes effecting heavy haulers Texas and New Mexico joint meetings Sitting on several boards for highway planning MRCOG and ITS Spoke on behalf of Truckers Against Trafficking at several locations across the state Started NMTA its own 501c3 arm to be able to obtain grants with the birth of The New Mexico Highway Safety Alliance ( NMHSA) Worked alongside several tech companies on e-log technology to offer our members added benefits Explored new ways to address health care cost for 1 to 1000 truck companies Workmen compensation solutions CDL concerns over real ID New Mexico deadlines CDL physicals to help provide new sources for member companies to send drivers for physical exams Numerous meeting with the heads of NMSP and NMMTP concerning issues effecting the state industry Formed a DATAQ review committee modeled after Arizona These are just a sample of some of the items addressed throughout the year that we hope will continue to move our industry forward. WE look forward to 2016, the Annual event scheduled for the end of April, many more meetings with industry wide leaders and working alongside our association companies to help them reach their goals.

Johnny Johnson New Mexico Trucking Association Managing Director 6 / New Mexico Trucking

Thursday April 28, 2016 • Isleta Eagle Golf Course Lunch & Registration: 12:00 Noon Tee Time: 1:00 p.m.

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Fax form to NMTA – 505-342-6308 Register Online at www.nmtrucking.org WINTER 2016 / 7

Presidents Podium

I’

ve been involved in the trucking industry for over 35 years and have been a member of NMTA for more than 20 of those years. During this time I’ve seen many changes and challenges to our industries livelihood.

What has become apparent is that change and increased regulation is inevitable. It has also become apparent that a strong active association is an asset to our industry and my company.

NMTA is recognized throughout the state and nationally and familiar with

the many trucking issues that affect New Mexico. We have been very active in lobbying and keeping fuel taxes fair and equitable. In addition, the NMTA has a seat at the table when issues such as Real ID driver’s license, hours of service, increased registration fees, and other issues that affect our industry are discussed. I would encourage you to join NMTA if you are not a member, and if you are, get someone in our industry who is not and encourage them to join.

Our voice on subjects that affect our industry become stronger and louder with more members.

As my term as President of NMTA comes to an end I am very grateful and humbled to have been allowed the opportunity to serve in this

positon for the past 2-1/2 years. It has been a great experience. I have been surrounded by a board that is active and dedicated. We have an executive director, Johnny Johnson is well respected and works tirelessly on behalf of our industry. In fulfilling my term as president I leave knowing that the association that has been around since 1939 will continue to represent the trucking industry in New Mexico and beyond with great expertise and professionalism

Proud Member Of The New Mexico Trucking Association Supplier of

Wayne Sonchar, President B.T.U. Block & Concrete, Inc. Las Vegas, NV

Contact us at (505)884-2040 Ext. 3016 to find out all the ways Brewer Oil and Valvoline can help your fleet.

8 / New Mexico Trucking

WINTER 2016 / 9

FROM THE ROUND HOUSE

“S

ausage factory” or “Swiss watch”? Which analogy will end up best describing this year’s 30-day legislative session? It will have aspects of both, I predict!

The New Mexico Legislature convened on January 19 and will be in session until February 18. The main task during this short session is to craft a state budget for fiscal year 2017. It looks as if the overall budget will be in the neighborhood of $6.5 billion dollars, which would be a slight increase over FY 2016.

The House Transportation and Public Works Committee (HTPWC) is recommending that the portion of the state budget dedicated to the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) should be $867 million dollars. Fifty-three percent would be from state funding sources (e.g., taxes on gasoline and special fuels) and forty-seven percent would be from federal funding sources. The Department of Transportation receives no money from the state’s General Fund.

As of this writing, the Appropriations and Finance Committee of the House of Representatives is taking the transportation budget recommendation under advisement. If the former agrees with our proposed figures, the $867-million-dollar NMDOT budget will be rolled into House Bill 2, the overall state budget bill, and then sent to the Senate for consideration. After the House and Senate reach an agreement, HB 2 will be sent to Governor Susana Martinez for her approval.

Like a Fine Swiss Watch: “The Tech Group” The Transportation Committee receives considerable assistance from a team of advisors known as “The Tech Group.” This team consists of fiscal analysts from the 10 / New Mexico Trucking

departments of Finance & Administration, Taxation & Revenue, and Transportation, plus an analyst from the Legislative Finance Committee and other NMDOT staff. The Tech Group meets on a frequent basis (starting months in advance of the legislative session) to build an initial NMDOT budget and then painstakingly fine-tune it. The Tech Group is a precision team, operating much like a Swiss watch, giving attention to every detail and striving for accuracy. Every line item is scrutinized.

The Tech Group’s goal is to arrive at consensus budget recommendation for consideration by the Transportation Committee. On January 26th the committee deliberated over the Tech Group’s proposal and adopted it without a single revision.

It pleases me to put the spotlight on the 2016 Tech Group, as it deserves credit for outstanding work!

Ports-of-Entry Initiative Question: Would you like to spend less time waiting at New Mexico’s ports of entry?

The Transportation Committee has endorsed a proposal to transfer management of the state’s 13 ports of entry from the Department of Public Safety to the NMDOT. This pilot project would free up Motor Trans officers to tend to safety inspections and issue more tickets, increasing overall compliance and making our highways safer. NMDOT plans to upgrade the ports of entries and hire employees to fully staff them. Furthermore, NMDOT will implement a comprehensive E-permitting system for the convenience of the trucking industry.

State transportation officials estimate—and the HTPWC agrees—that this new way of doing business will reduce wait times at the ports, increase the collection of legally owed permit fees, and make our ports of entry more customer friendly. Any revenues above

Cathrynn N. Brown State Representative, District 55 (Eddy County) Chair, House Transportation and Public Works Committee the cost of administering the program will go into the State Road Fund and be used for road betterments. We think this change will prove to be a very good idea.

What Else Might Emerge from the Legislative Sausage Factory?

Making laws is proverbially described as “making sausage.” Indeed, the legislative process can be messy and unpredictable!

Several transportation bills have been introduced in this session that I hope will make it out of the factory and be signed into law by the governor. One of them is HB 206, which would give the NMDOT statutory authority to use a Design & Build procurement method for federal-aid projects exceeding $50 million dollars. Another is HB 133, which would require motorists to approach roadside tow trucks with the same caution as they would emergency vehicles.

Also, there are several proposals calling for the transfer of the motor vehicle excise tax from the General Fund into the Road Fund (HBs 199 and 272.) Other transportation bills will be considered, as well. Typically, far fewer transportation bills are introduced during a 30-day legislative session than during a 60-day session, and that remains true this year.

I invite you to follow the work of your New Mexico Legislature online at www.nmlegis.gov or, better yet, come visit us at the Roundhouse!

Avanti!

WINTER 2016 / 11

One of the massive valve bodies that Riley Industrial Services has sandblasted and coated.

One of the icons of New Mexico is what is referred to as the four-corners. Located in the northwest corner of the state it is named by the unique, one of a kind border of 4-states, Arizona, Utah, Colorado and New Mexico.

The area is one of the states treasured areas, surrounded by rugged beauty, arid landscapes and views that travel for miles. It is also home to one of the state’s oil patches, and one that has seen many highs and lows throughout the years. Gas and oil play a direct role in the trucking industry and with the recent downslide in fuel production; the ripple effect has been felt by many inside the trucking industry. However, the companies in this area are pushing forward. With a solid foundation of companies that are dug in deep, they are ready to help the state and country move into the future.

Our friend, fellow New Mexico Trucking Association member, Larry Gilbert of Quality Trailers encouraged us to meet him in Farmington, New Mexico, one of the largest cities in the northwest to do a sort of ride along with him while he visited some of Quality’s longtime customers. This gave the NMTA a great opportunity to meet some of the areas trucking companies. It was a chance to grasp a more in depth knowledge on what these companies face on daily basis and ways the association can help them address different issues.

During our brief visit we met some incredible people that are deeply involved in the trucking industry. More though, we met a handful of individuals who put a stamp on what many people have stated over the years about the area and the people living and working there. There are truly very friendly, hard working, proud and trustworthy individuals in the four- corners area, people you would not soon forget once you meet them.

Another visit was one of those that was truly fate, but one that touched those of us there.

During our visit with Mrs. Mecheal Jack of Thriftway Fuels we mentioned during our trip to the area we had seen one of their tankers magnificently painted in patriotic theme. We were told that the particular trailer was one

Sonny Riley of Riley Industrial Services in Farmington and Larry Gilbert of Quality Trailers in Albuquerque

Vacuum Truck at Riley Industrial Services

We were very fortunate to sit down and visit with one a resident, Sonny Riley of Riley 12 / New Mexico Trucking

Industrial Services. He is an 81-year-old, self-made man and the epitome of what hard work and determination looks like. There is absolutely no way anyone can get even a fraction of Sonny’s story in the couple of hours we had to visit with him. In the near future we will make a second, and longer trip to visit Sonny and learn more about the man, his company, the history of the area and what he foresees lying ahead. We believe his years in the industry can help shed light into the future of trucking in New Mexico.

Riley Industry Services Sandblasting and Coating facilities

of their owner-operators and was leased on by a young man by the name of Grant Maxey The trailer was painted to honor his father-inlaw who served as a helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War. It was a brief part of the conversation with the company’s owner. As we were leaving and by some twist of fate, Grant stopped by the office. Mecheal ran and stopped us as we were driving away so that we could be introduced to the gentlemen who owned the patriotic painted trailer we had questioned. What followed was amazing and one quick peek at the trailer we soon found an incredible piece of art on wheels and a great story to go with it.

Grant briefly recanted how the trailer came to be and how his Father-in-Law reacted when he first saw it. In short we were told that he was honored. Like many of our proud veteran’s they simply do not want to talk much about their combat experiences and in respect we all honor that humble request with dignity, past and present. However, we do know he deeply respected the details of the trailer’s artwork, the many who sacrificed and what it stands for. We left with a truly different feeling and continued the remainder of the trip with a sort of pride that we all still carry today.

There were several other visits throughout the city and we enjoyed the time spent with each of them. We found each company hard at work pushing the trucking industry forward in the Northwest corner of the state. We were also encouraged by the way these companies work together. With the fuel production industry slipping downwards many of the trucking companies are maneuvering into endurance mode and lending a hand to each other’s needs. Like a large family, they work alongside one another, each of them benefiting from their hard work.

The beauty of the landscape, the rich history of the area and the hard working, great individuals of every company we met allowed us to reflect that the trucking industry reaches far and wide. We can say that we look forward to our next trip and meeting more and more of this fabulous community simply called the Four-Corners.

WINTER 2016 / 13

Northwest New Mexico is notable for desert scenery. It includes a large part of Navajo Nation, the country’s largest Indian reservation. The region is a rugged, dry area lacking the high mountains that give the north central region more rain, vegetation and scenery more commonly associated with Colorado and the Rocky Mountains.

However, there is still spectacular scenery.

The landform of Shiprock on the territory of Navajo Nation near the town of the same name is one of New Mexico’s most cherished landmarks and appears on much of the state’s tourist propaganda. The Continental Divide cuts through the Northwest region of the state, offering a unique observation of the watersheds that drain into the Pacific Ocean and into the Atlantic Ocean (including those that drain into the Gulf of Mexico. The Northwest offers a mosaic of azure skies, adobe architecture, ancient civilizations, Wild West desperados and red rock cliffs that help make New Mexico the “Land of Enchantment.”

The Four Corners is a region of the United States consisting of the southwestern corner of Colorado, southeastern corner of Utah, northeastern corner of Arizona, and northwestern corner of New Mexico.

The Four Corners area is named after the quadripoint where the boundaries of the four states meet, where the Monuments located.

It is the only location in the United States where four states meet.

The United States acquired the four corners region from Mexico after the end of the Mexican–American War in 1848. There is a lot of history in the establishment of the unique boundary. The first marker was placed at the spot in 1912 and today thousands visit the monument.

The Patriotic Trailer owned by Grant Maxey and leased on to Thriftway Fuels in Farmington. The special tribute is to honor those who have served our country and a special honor to Grant’s Father-In-Law.

14 / New Mexico Trucking

WINTER 2016 / 15

A& The NMT pleased S are the NMDVnounce... to an

2nd annual veteran’s job fair Giving Emphasis to Active & Retired Military the Opportunity to Connect with New Mexico's Trucking Industry (All Job Seekers are Welcome)

Friday, 29 April, 2016 1000 Hrs - 1400 Hrs

Held in conjunction with our Annual Business Meeting

isleta resort & casio conference center 11000 Broadway SE • Albuquerque, NM 87105

•Exhibitors will have the opportunity to recruit transportation professionals who have bravely served in America’s Armed Forces •For Complimentary Booths Contact New Mexico Trucking Association •Many of our employers are actively seeking Military Veterans •Employment & Educational opportunities available •Space is limited… Reserve your booth TODAY! Register online at www.nmtrucking.org For more information

Johnny Johnson, Managing Director Jrjohnson@nmtrucking.org 505-884-5575

16 / New Mexico Trucking

Get In Front of The Trucking Industry!

Advertise in the New Mexico Trucking Magazine

New Mexico • Support the New Mexico Trucking Association • Advertise and market your companies service or products

• Reach key decision makers in the trucking industry each quarter • Build a brand name in the Industry For more information about advertising and marketing in the New Mexico Trucking Magazine, or to receive a media guide, please contact:

Ryan Davis phone:505-407-2151 email: rdavis@rjfive.com

WINTER 2016 / 17

2�1� N�w M�x�c� T�u�k D�i�i�g C�a�p�o�s�i�s� The New Mexico Truck Driving and Step Van Championships will be here before you know it and the New Mexico Trucking Association is ready to present this year’s event with more than ever before. Packed into the last weekend of April, the NMTA will present the Truck Driving and Step Van Competition on April 30 at the Isleta Casino and Resort. The NMTA will also bring along the annual Golf Tournament on Thursday, April 28. This will be a 4-man scramble tournament, hosted at the Isleta Eagle Golf Course and will be packed with a lot of goodies and chances to win big throughout the day. Last year’s Veteran’s Job Fair was a hit among companies and those seeking employment. The NMTA will also host a general membership breakfast meeting on Friday, April 29th where Kevin Burch, President of Jet Express, Inc. and first vice chairman of the American Trucking Associations, will be the keynote speaker. There are several additions and changers to this year’s event to keep everyone entertained, including a SuperTech challenge, as well as a new Trap Shooting event.

The NMTA held the first SuperTech competition last summer and with is success decided to add it to the long weekend where the NMTA takes over Isleta Casino and Resort. It will be hosted alongside the Truck Driving and Step Van Championship at the Isleta Casino and Resort on Saturday, April 30th. Also new to the event this year will be the First Annual Trap Shooting Competition.

This will be hosted by NMTA and the Truckers Against Trafficking and hosted on Friday, April 29 at the Albuquerque Trap Club. This will be a fun competition as truck drivers will take on the law enforcement in a day of shooting. The event will wrap up after Saturday’s competition with the annual NMTA Banquet and Dinner. It will be held inside the ballrooms at the Isleta Casino and Resort.

There will be plenty of seats and dinner for everyone,

18 /

but please be sure to sign up to allow the NMTA to save you a table for the evening.

The NMTA is excited about the new additions to this year’s event. They hope everyone gets a chance to enjoy part of it, whether it is on the golf course, at the trap shooting or anywhere throughout the event.

In addition to the overall event, the NMTA is happy to add a great lineup to the banquet. For those who attend the Banquet, you will be entertained throughout the evening by Eric Green who will lead the master of ceremony. You know Green from KOAT News. He often gives us our weather and has been part of the meteorologist staff since January of 2010. Keynote speaker for the night’s event will be Lt. Governor John Sanchez. The banquet will present the nine winners of the Truck Driving and Step Van Championships that will represent the state of New Mexico this year at the National TDC in Indianapolis, Indiana in August.

The NMTA is delighted to once again ride side by side with the New Mexico Motor Transportation Police throughout the week as they host “The Challenge,” which is a skills and written competition to determine a winner who will represent New Mexico Transportation Police in Indianapolis, Indiana in August. The Motor Transportation Police also co-host with the NMTA banquet on Saturday evening.

So be sure to mark your calendars and make room for all of the fun presented to you by the NMTA. Also be sure to book your hotel room at the Isleta Casino and Resort early. There are always great things to do at the Casino in between the weekend’s events. It truly is a great place to stay and relax.

There is plenty to do at the resort or you can take a short drive north to take in all that Albuquerque has to offer.

Find Your Event Any and all event information and entry forms, including banquet seating can be found online at the NMTA website – www.nmtrucking.org.

Please use the link on this website to book your rooms at Isleta Casino and Resort or contact them directly for your reservations.

New Mexico Trucking For more information call NMTA at 505-884-5575.

Kevin Burch President of Jet Express, Inc. Kevin has over 42 years of experience in the trucking industry, including LTL, TL, Air Freight and consolidation. Since 1990, he has been President of Jet Express, Inc., as well as a partner in the company. Under Kevin’s leadership, Jet Express currently has 90 company drivers, 230 owner-operators and 600 trailers. The company handles up to 400 truckloads per day throughout the United States, primarily for the “just-in-time” automotive industry. Providing excellent service, the company was awarded the prestigious “Worldwide Supplier Award” 3 consecutive years from General Motors.

The company was awarded “Supplier of the Year” for 2011, the only truckload supplier in North America to receive this award. In 2015, Jet Express received the prestigious Ryder Carrier Quality Award.

Kevin is currently first vice chairman of the American Trucking Associations, the largest national trade association for the trucking industry. Through a federation of 50 affiliated state trucking associations and industry-related conferences and councils, ATA is the voice of the industry America depends on most to move our nation’s freight. Kevin is past-chairman of the Truckload Carrier’s Association (2009-2010), based in Alexandria, VA which consists of over 200,000 trucks.

Kevin has been an active member of the American Trucking Associations since 1990. He serves on the Membership Committee, is on the selection committee for LEAD ATA, is past-chairman of its Communications and Image Policy Committee, and serves as vice chairman of the executive committee of the Trucking Moves America Forward image movement. He is a Trustee of the Ohio Trucking Association, a steering committee member of the Dayton Logistics Council, a member of the Miami Valley Transportation Club in Dayton, Ohio, a member of the Board of Directors of the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce, and is involved in numerous committees including the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission. Kevin is very active with the local Boy Scouts of America and the Transportation Research Board (TRB) in Washington, DC. Kevin is a hands-on leader who believes in team sharing on all projects; i.e.: “drivers drive the company.” He acquired his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in September, 2008 and in 2014 received the prestigious Mike Russell Trucking Industry Image Award.

Eric Green “It may not rain much here in New Mexico, but we sure do have active weather!”

Emmy-award winning certified broadcast meteorologist Eric Green says that’s his usual reply when people tell him how easy it must be being a meteorologist in a state where the sun is shining most of the time. A member of the KOAT meteorologist staff since January 2010, Eric says he loves our state’s diverse weather, especially during the winter.

Eric received the official seal of approval from the American Meteorological Society (AMS) in 2004 and the AMS Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) designation in 2008, making the First Alert Weather team the only team of broadcast meteorologists in New Mexico to have all main meteorologists in possession of the prestigious designation.

Previously, Eric served as weekend meteorologist at Hearst Television sister station WLWT-TV in Cincinnati. In the Ohio Valley, Eric tracked everything from major winter storms with heavy snow and ice to severe summer storms and even tornadoes. Before his time in Ohio, he served as meteorologist at WOWK-TV in Huntington, West Virginia, and KBJR-TV in Duluth, Minnesota.

Eric earned his bachelor’s degree in atmospheric sciences at St. Cloud State University in St. Cloud, Minnesota. While a student, Eric researched tornados in the Northern Plains, and won an undergraduate award for his insight.

Eric is married with a son and daughter, and he says he and his wife stay supremely busy chasing their kids around on the weekend, and when the kids rest, their cat and dog provide the laughter. When not forecasting the weather, Eric can be found coaching wrestling at La Cueva high school in Albuquerque where he’s been an assistant coach since 2011 and he’s also really plugged into the local car scene frequently hitting car shows and also the local racetracks, where he’s been known to race at times.

Lt. Governor John Sanchez John Sanchez has served as Lieutenant Governor since January 2011, and was reelected on November 4, 2014, by the citizens of the State of New Mexico. He was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and can trace his public service roots to his great, great grandfather, who was a territorial legislator from San Miguel County in 1860.

Prior to being elected Lieutenant Governor, Sanchez was elected to the office of Councilman for the Village of Los Ranchos and also served in the New Mexico House of Representatives. In 2005, he was recognized as one of the Top 40 Most Influential Hispanics in the Country.

Together with his wife, Debra, Sanchez built one of New Mexico’s most respected and successful small businesses in Albuquerque. The firm has operated continuously for over 30 years and was twice honored as Small Business of the Year.

As Lieutenant Governor, Sanchez presides over the New Mexico State Senate, serves as the State’s Ombudsman, and sits on several boards and commissions. He is also an active member of the National Lieutenant Governors Association (NLGA) and currently serves as the association’s West Regional Chairman.

Lieutenant Governor Sanchez is a strong advocate for job creation, economic development, and private sector growth in New Mexico, and recently accepted an appointment to the Innovate ABQ Board of Directors.

He and his wife are the proud parents of two grown daughters, and reside in Albuquerque.

WINTER 2016 / 19

The New Mexico Safety Management Council

Presents

New Mexico Truck Driving & Step Van Championships April 30, 2016 Entry deadline: April 15, 2016 Entry Fee: $50 per driver* Register Online: www.nmtrucking.org • • • •

•

•

•

A city or road driver Drives for or leases to a common, contract, specialized or private carrier.

Member Company of NMTA Accident-free since April 30, 2015 and continuously employed by the entering employer for at least 12 months prior to entry.

Have driven and performed the duties of a professional truck driver for 11 of the 12 months prior to entry.

Proof of CDL & any endorsements must accompany entry forms (a photocopy of MVR is sufficient).

Drivers must be permanent residents of NM or be occupationally domiciled in NM. Come see New Mexico’s most skilled, safe and professional drivers compete for top honors!

BETTER YET, COME PROVE THAT YOU ARE THE…

• • • BEST • • • PROFESSIONAL DRIVER In New Mexico!

Questions? Call the NMTA: 505-884-5575 Register online at www.nmtrucking.org All entries must include: Paid entry fee All entries must include: Paid entry fee Completed ATA TR-1 & TR-2 Entry Forms Current MVR (dated no later than March 15, 2016)

*DOES NOT INCLUDE driver’s award ceremony dinner ticket (for driver or guest). No registration forms or changes in the driver’s class of competition will be accepted after this date. Upon receipt of the entry forms and payment, NMTA will supply an ATA “Facts for Drivers” book and shoulder patches for each driver entered.

Additional patches are available for a nominal fee.

CLASSES OF COMPETITION: • Step Van • Straight Truck • Three-Axle

Finance your fleet with a trusted industry veteran

• Four-Axle • Five-Axle • Tank Truck • Flatbed • Twin-Trailer • Sleeper Berth

AWARDS: • Grand Champion • Rookie of the Year • Team Award • Trophies for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place competitors

Pre-Order Today and Save!

2016 ERG

• 1st place winners also have the opportunity to represent NM in the ATA Nat’l Truck Driving Championships in Indianapolis Indiana on Aug 10- 13, 2016

• Loans, leases, and lines of credit for private and for-hire carriers • A relationship approach designed to last for the long haul • Trailers available for lease directly from Wells Fargo

Reserve your 2016 ERGs at low 2012 edition prices

JJKeller.com/ERG • 800-327-6868

• Awards announced at our Annual Banquet on Saturday April 30, 2016

Questions?

Call the NMTA at 505.884.5575 Register online at www.nmtrucking.org

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Nationa l Watch National News

by Bruce Macrae - UPS International trade agreements might bring to mind images of shipyards and airports, not highways and trucks. But as our industry knows, the connection between trucking and global trade has never been stronger.

That’s why what happened on February 4th is so important. Representatives from 12 nations, including U.S. Trade Representative Mike Froman, met in New Zealand to sign the TransPacific Partnership — a world-class trade agreement connecting the United States to 4 continents and 500 million international consumers.

Truly, this is big news for trucking companies and the industries we serve.

As Bob Costello, chief economist for the American Trucking Association, said in a recent interview with Transport Topics: “When we trade goods, at some point in the supply chain it’s going on a truck. … Any time you can get trade expanded, you’ve got new markets, new opportunities and new business.”

And in today’s age of e-commerce, with each year producing new record-breaking shipping volumes, the potential gains from opening new markets are clear.

February’s signing, then, is a signal of continued support for the agreement, which was finalized last October. Going forward, each participating country will need to convince its domestic legislature to ratify the agreement.

Recognizing the impact global trade has on the trucking industry, now is the 22 / New Mexico Trucking

time for us to do our part in helping to promote TPP and the many benefits it will bring, especially to our customers.

Small and medium-sized businesses — the backbone of the American economy — have the most to gain from breaking down existing barriers to trade.

For the first time in any international agreement, TPP includes a chapter focused on addressing obstacles that disproportionately challenge small businesses, including complex trade paperwork, opaque customs regulations, and the slow delivery of small shipments.

Collectively, lowering these barriers will help small businesses expand internationally or make the decision to go global in the first place.

Here are five ways TPP will benefit the global economy, especially for small businesses: Removing red tape in customs Under the agreement, customs officials will require fewer documents and adopt electronic pre-arrival processing and clearance of shipments. Packages will move through TPP countries more quickly, with fewer customs holds and more reliable delivery to customers.

Reducing corruption TPP works to raise standards across the trade region for combatting government corruption. By requiring the adoption of anti-bribery and conflict-of-interest laws, the agreement works to ensure companies can compete fairly in each member country.

Leveling the playing field The agreement levels the playing field for private companies competing against government-run service providers. The deal ensures that private companies providing services aren’t

regulated by a government entity that is also a competitor. In addition, it bars governments from subsidizing state-run entities that are competing in competitive industries. Ultimately, these competition rules will ensure better choices for customers and more opportunities for businesses.

Increasing market access for service providers The deal guarantees foreign-owned service suppliers can compete in the same markets as domestically-owned service suppliers. The agreement will eliminate foreign ownership restrictions in a number of key services areas.

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Reducing tariffs Many goods today are produced along complex value chains, and a tariff is applied to the gross value of a good each time it crosses a border. TPP’s tariff cuts – combined with its many other marketopening provisions – will take a lot of the cost, time and complexity out of trade.

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Fundamentally, agreements like TPP make it easier for small businesses to export — which means more volume moving through shipping networks across the board, including on trucks.

As Congress reviews this legislation in the coming months, it is important to think about the costs of inaction. The Peterson Institute estimates that delaying implementation for one year could cost the U.S. economy $77 billion. And the World Bank predicts economic gains of 1.1% of GDP by 2030 if TPP is enacted.

TPP is a modern agreement for a modern economy. Congress can and should take action soon to unlock new opportunities for strong global growth in the 21st century.

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SMC

Bulletin

Well, hopefully you have made it through the worst of winter…..

Now you have a moment to think about some of the smaller yet no less important details of keeping your truck or trucks safety compliant.

Let’s start the year by checking to make sure that you have your required emergency equipment and that it is in good working order.

While we all know that this should be checked frequently, it would be wise to make this a specifically timed check as well (like changing the batteries in your smoke detector at home on daylight savings time days).

The following are the FMCSA’s Emergency Equipment requirements: § 393.95: Emergency equipment on all power units.

Each truck, truck tractor, and bus (except those towed in driveaway-towaway operations) must be equipped as follows: (a) Fire extinguishers —(1) Minimum ratings. (i) A power unit that is used to transport hazardous materials in a quantity that requires placarding (See § 177.823 of this title) must be equipped with a fire extinguisher having an Underwriters’ Laboratories rating of 10 B:C or more. (ii) A power unit that is not used to transport hazardous materials must be equipped with either: (A) A fire extinguisher having an Underwriters’ Laboratories rating of 5 B:C or more; or (B) Two fire extinguishers, each of which has an Underwriters’ Laboratories rating of 4 B:C or more.

(2) Labeling and marking. Each fire extinguisher required by this section must be labeled or marked by the manufacturer with its Underwriters’ Laboratories rating.

(3) Visual Indicators. The fire extinguisher must be designed, constructed, and maintained to permit visual determination of whether it is fully charged.

(b) Spare fuses. Power units for which fuses are needed to operate any required parts and accessories must have at least one spare fuse for each type/ size of fuse needed for those parts and accessories. (c)-(e) [Reserved] (f) Warning devices for stopped vehicles. Except as provided in paragraph (g) of this section, one of the following options must be used: (1) Three bidirectional emergency reflective triangles that conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 125, § 571.125 of this title; or (2) At least 6 fusees or 3 liquid-burning flares. The vehicle must have as many additional fusees or liquid-burning flares as are necessary to satisfy the requirements of § 392.22.

(3) Other warning devices may be used in addition to, but not in lieu of, the required warning devices, provided those warning devices do not decrease the effectiveness of the required warning devices. (g) Restrictions on the use of flame-producing devices. Liquid-burning flares, fusees, oil lanterns, or any signal produced by a flame shall not be carried on any commercial motor vehicle transporting Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 (explosives) hazardous materials; any cargo tank motor vehicle used for the transportation of Division 2.1 (flammable gas) or Class 3 (flammable liquid) hazardous materials whether loaded or empty; or any commercial motor vehicle using compressed gas as a motor fuel. (h)-(i) [Reserved] (j) Requirements for fusees and liquid-burning flares. Each fusee shall be capable of burning for 30 minutes, and each liquid-burning flare shall contain enough fuel to burn continuously for at least 60 minutes. Fusees and liquid-burning flares shall conform to the requirements of Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., UL No. 912, Highway Emergency Signals, Fourth Edition, July 30, 1979, (with an amendment dated November 9, 1981). (See § 393.7 for information on the incorporation by reference and availability of this document.) Each fusee and liquid-burning flare shall be marked with the UL symbol in accordance with the requirements of UL 912. (k) Requirements for red flags. Red flags shall be not less than 12 inches square, with standards adequate to maintain the flags in an upright position.

(4) Condition, location, and mounting. The fire extinguisher(s) must be filled and located so that it is readily accessible for use. The extinguisher(s) must be securely mounted to prevent sliding, rolling, or vertical movement relative to the motor vehicle.

Now that your head is full and reeling from all of this information, let’s remember that if you have employees, per OSHA you are the responsible party to make sure that all emergency equipment is inspected, maintained and tested.

(5) Extinguishing agents. The fire extinguisher must use an extinguishing agent that does not need protection from freezing. Extinguishing agents must comply with the toxicity provisions of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) regulations under 40 CFR Part 82, Subpart G.

Employers may also be required to provide initial fire safety education upon employment and at least annually thereafter, so be sure to check your OSHA requirements.

(6) Exception. This paragraph (a) does not apply to the driven unit in a driveaway-towaway operation.

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So check it, maintain it and test it so you COME HOME SAFE!

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Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT) Now is the time to get involved!

It’s a new year, and if you, as a professional driver, haven’t gotten your wallet card from Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT) or haven’t watched the TAT training DVD, so you know the critical role you can play in fighting human trafficking, time is a wasting!!!

The trucking industry is being heralded as one of the most motivated and well-organized groups in the country in the fight against this horrific crime which enslaves tens of thousands of people, many of whom are minors. Calls from truckers to the National Human Trafficking Hotline reporting tips and information continue to rise. In the last six years, those calls have resulted in over 400 likely human trafficking cases, involving almost 700 victims, of which 234 were minors. You are everyday heroes.

So, if you don’t have a wallet card or haven’t watched the DVD, email tat.truckers@gmail.com to receive your free materials. Talk to the safety director at your company about training all employees with these materials. If you’re in truck-driving school, talk to your instructor about adding TAT training to the curriculum. TAT provides all materials for free – wallet cards for every person and DVDs for each company or school. If you’re a safety director of a trucking company and you’ve already trained all employees, please take two minutes and go to the TAT website – www.truckersagainsttrafficking.org -- to register your company as TAT trained.

No matter what function you fill in the trucking industry, tell other members of the industry about human trafficking and TAT. Educate and inform them about how they, too, can be involved in ending one of the greatest human rights violations of our time.

And, remember, if you see someone being trafficked or even if you just suspect human trafficking is taking place, make the call to the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-3737-888 and report what you’re seeing. The hotline is open 24/7, is confidential, connected to law enforcement throughout the country, and operated by people who understand human trafficking and will know how to use the information you provide. It’s better to make the call, even if you’re not sure about what you’re seeing, than not to make the call at all.

Make the call and save lives.

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The poster is available in English or Spanish by contacting tat.truckers@gmail.com.

Friday, April 29, 2016

2 p.m. Snacks and drinks 12 & 20 Gauge Ammunition included

Awards presented at Isleta Resort & Casino following tournament (Cash Bar Available) available for sale!

Register online at www.nmtrucking.org WINTER 2016 / 27

Behind The Lights

W

ith the session winding down the NMSP /NMMTP have been extremely busy and finding time for them to contribute to the” Behind the lights” was virtually impossible. So on their behalf we are going to list just a few of the accomplishments of the department to date: 1. The NMSP/NMMTP have attended and been active in several meetings with the NMTA and members concerning CSA scores and the negative effect 2. The new permit process have been

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well received across the board and our OS.OW members have applauded the new system at every opportunity.

3. The NMSP/NMMTP have been attending and supporting a movement to create a DataQ review committee modeled after the one that exist in AZ. 4. NMSP/NMMTP have contacted NMTA on many major advances in highway safety issues.

5. Continuing support of the NMTA annual event with combining the NMSP/NMMTP challenge with the spring event each year.

One very important note: The New Mexico State Police Chief, Kassetas and New Mexico State Police Deputy Chief, Glascock supported the NMTA’s 2nd effort to put a safety bill concerning expanding the current move over law to include tow/repair vehicles.

DC Glascock stood by at numerous committee meetings sometimes waiting up to 8 hours at a time to testify on our behalf and supporting our efforts to make New Mexico highways safer for all New Mexicans.

We applaud these two organizations who in force attended and supported the NMTA bill on our behalf.

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New Mexico CALENDAR

Upcoming Industry News and Events!

March

2 SMC meeting location TBA 3-4 H.E.L.P. Board meeting 6-9 Truckload Carriers Association, Las Vegas, NV 8 GGEDC Board Meeting in Gallup, NM 10 El Paso/New Mexico Joint Chapter Golf Tournament 13-15 International Warehouse Logistics Association, Orlando, FL 17 St. Patricks Day 24-26 National Utility Contractor Association, Fort Lauderdale, FL 25 Good Friday 27 Easter Sunday 29-31 ACT Research, Columbus, IN 31–April 3 American Truck Dealers Expo, Las Vegas, NV 31–April 2 Mid-American Trucking Show, Louisville, KY

April 5-7 6 6-9 6-9 14-16 17-20 19-20 19-22 24-26 24-26 25-28

ATA SMC & TSC’s Annual Policy Conference, Arlington, VA SMC meeting location TBA Transportation Intermediaries Association, San Antonio, TX Truck Trailer Manufacturing Association, La Quinta, CA Truck World 2016, Toronto, CN Truck Renting & Leasing Association, Scottsdale, AZ Georgia Center of Innovation for Logistics, Atlanta, GA NAFA Fleet Management Association, Austin, TX Nasstrac – Annual Shippers Conference and Transportation Expo, Orlando, FL National Tank Truck Carriers, San Diego, CA Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, Chicago, IL

WHOS’S SUPPORTING THE TRUCKING INDUSTRY IN THE STATE! 2nd to None Fleet Service ............................. 20 AVI Risk Management .................................. 31 Brewer Oil................................................. 9, 21 CT Power ...................................................... 11 Cummins Rocky Mountain ........................... 15 Danlar Towing................................................. 3 Dr. Silverman ................................................ 15 Great West Casualty Company ..................... 32 JJ Keller (NMTA) ......................................... 21 Leagal ID/Shield ............................................. 9 Meritor Drive force ....................................... 11 NY Life ......................................................... 11 Ortiz Law ...................................................... 21

NMTA Annual Event

Pro Drivers ...................................................... 9

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Purcell Tire .................................................... 11

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30

May 1-3 2-4 3-5 4 4-6 9-11 11-14 15-18 22-25

New Mexico Trucking Highway Safety Alliance Annual Golf Tournament, Albuquerque, NM Member Breakfast Meeting – Isleta Casino & Resort, Albuquerque, NM VA Job Fair (Booths Available) – Isleta Casino & Resort, Albuquerque, NM Break out Rooms and Informational Sessions – Isleta Casino & Resort, Albuquerque, NM TRAP SHOOT @ abqTrapshoot – Isleta Casino & Resort, Albuquerque, NM Law Enforcement Statewide Motorcycle Officer Stunt Course Competition – Isleta Casino & Resort, Albuquerque, NM Friday Night Law Enforcement Cocktail Hour – Isleta Casino & Resort, Albuquerque, NM TDC (Truck Driving Competition) Supertech (Elite Technician Competition) – Isleta Casino & Resort, Albuquerque, NM Annual Awards Banquet @ Isleta Resort and Casino – Isleta Casino & Resort, Albuquerque, NM 2016 ATA Leadership Meeting, Washington, DC Transportation & Logistics Council, Albuquerque, NM Intermodal Association of North America, Lombard, IL SMC meeting location TBA Municipal Judges Conference, Albuquerque, NM Transplace Shipper Symposium, San Antonio, TX Customized Logistics and Delivery Association, Las Vegas, NV Warehousing Education and Research Council, Providence, RI Commodity Classification Standards Board Meeting, Fort Lauderdale, FL

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Quality Trailers ..............................................23 Rush Truck Center ...........................................2 San Juan Community College..........................8 TRSC..............................................................17 Truckers Against Trafficking..........................26 Walwork Financial .........................................17 Wells Fargo ....................................................21 Western Assurance .........................................28 NMTA Membership .......................................29 NMT Magazine ..............................................17

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