Dana Guthrie, Author at TheTrucker.com

Pilot activates round-up campaign in support of Hurricane Helene relief efforts

By Dana Guthrie - October 7, 2024

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Pilot is mobilizing its extensive network of travel centers to support communities affected by Hurricane Helene through an in-store round-up campaign for the American Red Cross. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the countless individuals, families and communities, including our own team members, experiencing the utterly devastating effects of Hurricane Helene,” said Julius Cox, Pilot’s chief people officer. “Pilot is profoundly thankful to our team members and emergency personnel for all they are doing to support the affected communities. We are working around the clock to ensure our stores are open and able to provide essentials like fuel and food as we start down the road to recovery together.” In addition to the round-up, Pilot is donating $300,000 to hurricane relief efforts, including $100,000 to Red Cross Hurricane Helene relief and $200,000 across various local non-profit organizations in highly impacted areas, according to a company press release. From October 4 to October 18 guests can visit any U.S. owned and operated Pilot, Flying J and One9 travel center location to round up their purchase to the nearest dollar to provide aid to those affected by the hurricane. One hundred percent of funds raised will support Red Cross response efforts in impacted communities across the Southeast. Since Hurricane Helene, Pilot has worked to restore operations as safely and quickly as possible to serve the communities and emergency responders. Currently, all Pilot, Flying J and One9 travel centers, including those in highly impacted areas, are open and operational. The latest operational updates for stores in impacted areas can be found at pilotflyingj.com/operational-updates.

Volvo Trucks takes the road to innovation with the debut of VNL series

By Dana Guthrie - October 7, 2024

DUBLIN, Va. — Volvo Trucks North America has officially started series production of the all-new Volvo VNL — a completely reimagined Class 8 truck. “We are excited to be rolling out the all-new Volvo VNL to our valued dealer partners and can’t wait for our customers to receive them into their operations to experience the future of trucking today,” said Peter Voorhoeve, president, Volvo Trucks North America. “This truck was designed to change everything and represents Volvo Trucks’ dedication to innovation by combining state-of-the-art technology with unparalleled fuel efficiency, driver comfort, and safety. The all-new Volvo VNL has already set a new standard in the trucking industry, and it will provide tremendous value to our customers’ operations.” According to a company press release, the new series is being assembled at the New River Valley Assembly Plant, the Volvo Group’s largest assembly facility in the world at over 2.3 million square-feet sits on 566 acres in Dublin, Va.. The commercial launch of the all-new Volvo VNL also serves as a christening of the state-of-the-art cab plant, part of a $400 million dollar investment by the Volvo Group in North America, underscoring Volvo’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and excellence in the transportation industry’s future. “Throughout the summer, more than 1,800 customers, dealers and sales staff participated in immersive events at the Volvo Trucks Customer Center, gaining hands-on experience with the all-new Volvo VNL,” the company said. “The truck brings industry-first packaging to simplify the spec’ing process for customers and dealers and ensures fleets are getting the maximum value available in the Volvo Trucks portfolio. Additionally, dealers’ service representatives have access to extensive competency development through e-learning and in-person, instructor-led courses from the Volvo Trucks Academy, ensuring they are fully equipped to support the all-new Volvo VNL when it arrives at dealerships. In conjunction with series production start, over 400 all-new Volvo VNLs will start arriving at dealership locations across North America, providing customers with opportunities to get behind the wheel for a test drive and experience a new level of driver comfort, equipped with state-of-the-art connectivity and safety.” The release noted that the Volvo VNL features four exterior and interior trim levels — Core, Edge, Edge Black, and Ultimate — with six cab configurations, each designed to fit customers’ preferences, brand identity, and operational needs. The initial 400 trucks will include both sleepers and day cab models, offering a variety of packages, trim levels and powertrain offerings to give customers a first-hand experience to determine the best fit for their operations. The trucks boast a wide array of innovative features, including advanced aerodynamics for improved fuel efficiency and safety technologies like collision avoidance systems and best-in-class connectivity solutions. Designed with superior driver comfort in mind, the truck features ergonomic seating, advanced climate control, and noise reduction features. “Volvo Trucks North America remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries and setting new standards in trucking technology.,” the company said. “The all-new Volvo VNL models are a testament to the commitment to providing the best possible solutions for customers.”

FTR, ACT report North American Class 8 net orders over 30,000 units in September

By Dana Guthrie - October 6, 2024

COLUMBUS, BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — FTR and ACT have both reported that preliminary North American Class 8 net orders in September reached over 30,000 units. According to an FTR media release, the figure falls in line with seasonal expectations as the average September order level over the last seven years is 32,170 units. Given the current stagnation in the truck freight market from a volume and rate perspective, this is a very balanced order number and suggests an initial, healthy level of demand for new trucks in 2025 as September is typically the opening of order boards for the following year. “This month, OEMs saw positive market demand, though the magnitude of the m/m increases varied,” said Dan Moyer, FTR senior analyst, commercial vehicles. “The vocational market considerably outperformed the conventional sector, driving most of the m/m improvement. Despite stagnant freight markets, fleets continue to invest in new equipment, albeit at replacement demand levels in 2024 to date. We expect a modest increase in September backlogs once the final Class 8 market data is released later this month. With inventory remaining near record levels, we also expect further downward pressure on build rates through the end of 2024.” In an ACT press release, Kenny Vieth, ACT president and senior analyst added that Class 8 orders jumped well above trend and seasonally elevated expectations in September. “Historically, September is the first month of stronger orders, as the OEMs open their order books to next year’s orders,” Vieth said. “As such, for the first time since March, seasonality lowers the monthly order volume. On a seasonally adjusted basis, Class 8 orders jumped 92% from August, to 35,200 units, a 423k SAAR.” Vieth added that medium-duty orders continued at range-bound levels on a very slowly declining trend. “Preliminary NA Classes 5-7 orders were mixed, rising nominally m/m, but falling seasonally,” Vieth said. “In September, MD net orders fell 4,700 units, or 20% y/y, to 19,100 units.”

DOL order bars Cargomatic from retaliation against its drivers, interfering with rights

By Dana Guthrie - October 6, 2024

LOS ANGELES, Calif. – The U.S. Department of Labor has obtained a permanent injunction and court order forbidding a California transportation company from retaliating against drivers and illegally shifting liability for labor law violations onto workers who exercised their federally protected rights. According to the DOL, a Sept. 25 consent judgment and order in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California requires Cargomatic Inc., a Long Beach transportation and logistics company, to cease its repeated intimidation and threats directed toward drivers who deliver freight for Ceva Freight LLC, a subsidiary of Ceva Logistics in Torrance. “Employers should know better than to attempt to enforce indemnity clauses that purport to shift liability for wage and other labor law violations onto workers,” said Marc Pilotin, regional solicitor in San Fransisco. “Such provisions are coercive, retaliatory, illegal, and unenforceable. The U.S. Department of Labor will not tolerate retaliation against workers in any form, including when it involves—as here—employers invoking invalid terms buried in a contract’s fine print.” According to the DOL, the department’s Office of the Solicitor learned that, after a group of drivers filed suit against Ceva for alleged labor violations, Cargomatic threatened to countersue the drivers for more than $150,000 in attorney’s fees. Drivers alleged the company intimidated drivers and threatened to terminate those who persisted in seeking unpaid wages and other remedies for the alleged violation of their rights under the Fair Labor Standards Act and the California Labor Code. The company sent drivers involved in the Ceva lawsuit letters claiming they materially breached the terms of service agreements that Cargomatic required them to sign. The agreements included indemnity clauses that Cargomatic threatened to enforce against these workers to deter them from exercising their rights. To further deter workers from pursuing their rights, the agreements had an arbitration provision that arguably barred the workers from seeking collective relief against the company regarding the unlawful indemnity clauses. The department’s legal action is part of larger efforts to combat employers’ attempts to enforce coercive provisions in contracts that seek to dissuade or punish workers from attempting to enforce their legal employment rights, according to the DOL. The effort has included similar actions against Advanced Care Staffing in New York and Bimbo Bakeries in Vermont. Cargomatic is a transportation logistics company that provides drivers who transport freight for shipping companies and has a mobile application for use by drivers. Since at least 2019, Cargomatic has contracted drivers to deliver cargo for Ceva Freight. The FLSA requires that most employees in the U.S. be paid at least the federal minimum wage for all hours worked and overtime pay at not less than time and one-half the regular rate of pay for all hours worked over 40 in a workweek. The law also guarantees employees the right to raise wage and hour concerns, participate in U.S. Department of Labor wage investigations and file private wage actions without retaliation from their employers. For more information about the FLSA and other laws enforced by the Wage and Hour Division, contact the agency’s toll-free helpline at 866-4US-WAGE (487-9243). Learn more about the division, including a search tool to use if an employee thinks they may be owed back wages collected by the division. The department protects workers regardless of immigration status and can communicate with workers in more than 200 languages.

CBP officers seize $17.4M in methamphetamine at Pharr International Bridge

By Dana Guthrie - October 6, 2024

PHARR, Texas — The U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Field Operations officers at Pharr International Bridge seized more than $17.4 million in methamphetamine in a single enforcement action. “Our frontline CBP officers continue to maintain a robust enforcement posture in the cargo environment and by effectively utilizing their training, experience, technology and canines they prevented a massive load of methamphetamine from wreaking havoc on our streets,” said Port Director Carlos Rodriguez, Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry. “This seizure underscores the seriousness of the drug threat we face on a daily basis and the resolve of our officers to keep our communities safe.” According to a CBP press release, the seizure occurred on Sept. 28 at the Pharr International Bridge when a CBP officer referred a tractor trailer hauling a shipment of coconuts for secondary inspection. CBP officers conducted a secondary examination that included utilization of a non-intrusive inspection system and CBP canines. Upon further physical examination, CBP officers discovered 378 packages containing a total of nearly 1,950 pounds of alleged methamphetamine hidden within the trailer. The narcotics had an estimated street value of $17,431,726. The release noted that the CBP seized the narcotics and tractor trailer. Homeland Security Investigations special agents initiated a criminal investigation.

Mike Bozzoli’s vision for Allegiance Trucks: A new era of growth and innovation

By Dana Guthrie - October 4, 2024

NEW YORK — Allegiance Trucks is a entering a new era with the appointment of Mike Bozzoli as its new CEO. “I am excited and humbled by the opportunity to lead Allegiance,” Bozzoli said. “Having spent more than 35 years in this industry, I see tremendous potential in our brands, our footprint, our service, and most of all, our people. These are the building blocks upon which we will reintroduce ourselves to our customers in new and impactful ways.” According to a media release, Bozzoli brings extensive experience in the truck service and parts industry to Allegiance, with a proven track record of leadership, a passion for driving growth through innovation and a focus on the customer experience. In his new role as CEO, he plans to strengthen the business by enhancing service quality, optimizing inventory and aligning performance with incentives to ensure the organization has the right resources and internal structures in place to support its mission. He most recently served as Senior Vice President at Murphy Hoffman Company (MHC). During his tenure, Bozzoli managed fixed operations across 80 distribution points in 19 states, oversaw more than $1 billion in retail parts and service sales, and drove the nearly 200-fold growth of this private brand. “From the moment we met Mike, we knew we had found the right leader to take Allegiance to the next level,” said Michael Sirignano, dealer principal and board member of Allegiance. “His deep roots in the industry and his commitment to leading from the front lines align perfectly with our vision for the future of the company. We are confident that under his leadership, Allegiance will continue to build on its strengths to achieve a new level of growth and success.” Persio Lisboa, former CEO and president of Navistar International and an Allegiance board member, added that Bozzoli’s deep expertise and knowledge, combined with his commitment to operational excellence, are paramount for navigating the challenges of our evolving industry while continuing to deliver exceptional, customer-centric value. “We look forward to seeing the positive impact Mike will undoubtedly have in leading Allegiance into its next chapter and are confident that, with him at the helm, the company will continue to set industry standards, drive innovation and exceed customer expectations across the board,” Lisboa said.

Arpin welcomes B. Lynn Tomarchio as regional director of business development

By Dana Guthrie - October 4, 2024

WEST WARWICK, R.I. – Arpin International Group has picked B. Lynn Tomarchio as the company’s new regional director of business development. “We are so excited to have someone of Lynn’s experience and market presence join the Arpin team,”said Mark J. Burchell, vice president of sales and global business development. “She is well respected in the industry, and her energy and passion to support her clients is a testament to her long-standing customer relationships. In addition, Lynn is well-known to many of our overseas agent partners. Her stellar reputation is truly on a global scale.” According to a company media release, Tomarchio steps into this pivotal role at Arpin and is at the forefront of its growth strategy, building strong, long-term customer relationships and contributing to the company’s continued success in the mobility arena. Tomarchio has been in the moving industry for more than two decades, according to the release. She is a highly accomplished mobility professional with a long track record of successfully interpreting complex client needs into best-in-class service delivery. Her collaborative approach with internal teams and external stakeholders has earned her a well-deserved reputation for excellence in the industry. Currently residing in California, Tomarchio is a graduate of Pennsylvania State University and is an active member of leading industry organizations, including Bay Area Mobility Management, Portland Relocation Council, Arizona Relocation Alliance, Women of Global Mobility and Worldwide Employee Relocation Council. She will be appearing at the upcoming WERC Global Workforce Symposium in National Harbor, Md. from October 22-25. “Tomarchio’s addition to the Arpin team underscores the company’s commitment to exceptional service and leadership in global mobility,” the company said.

EEOC sues three employers for sexual harassment, including Wallers Trucking

By Dana Guthrie - October 4, 2024

PHOENIX, Ariz – The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has filed three lawsuits alleging that employers in Arizona, Utah and Wyoming violated Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by allowing sexual harassment to permeate their workplaces, including Wallers Trucking Company Inc. The employers permitted work environments that were illegally hostile toward female employees and, in two of the cases, resulted in physical sexual assault. “The EEOC continues its mission to protect workers across the spectrum of workplaces under the agency’s purview and to guide employers in ensuring that employees are safe, protected, and treated with dignity and respect, including to have their complaints about sexual harassment taken seriously,” said Karla Gilbride, EEOC general counsel “In furtherance of this mission, the EEOC’s recent harassment guidance is a helpful resource for employers, employees and practitioners that reflects the continued importance of this issue to the agency.” According to a press release, the EEOC’s Phoenix District Office, which has jurisdiction for Arizona, Colorado, Utah, Wyoming and part of New Mexico, filed: EEOC v. Wallers Trucking Company Inc.., Case No.1:24-cv-00197-SWS in S. District Court for the District of Wyoming. The suit alleged that Waller’s Trucking Company violated federal law when its owner sexually harassed female employees over the course of several years. The owner made crude and sexually explicit comments to at least two female employees, frequently in front of their coworkers and/or over radio, and also inappropriately grabbed female employees without their permission. Wallers Trucking, a family-owned business, failed to take action despite multiple complaints and reports of sexual harassment, and instead continued to foster a hostile work environment for its female employees and fired at least two female employees. EEOC v. Christian Care Management, Inc., dba Christian Care Companies/Fellowship Square, Case No. 2:24-cv-02620-GMS, in S. District Court for the District of Arizona. The agency filed suit against the operator of senior living communities located across the State of Arizona after a client repeatedly harassed female employees over an extended period of time. The client made vulgar and sexually explicit comments to several female employees and propositioned female employees to engage in sexual activity with him. Female employees complained about the harassment by the client, but Christian Care failed to take prompt and adequate measures against the client to end the harassment or deter future sexual harassment by the client. Christian Care created a hostile work environment for female employees, which culminated in the client committing egregious sexual harassment and physical assault of a different female employee, including grabbing her breast and attempting to grope her vagina, the EEOC said. EEOC v. HHS Environmental Services, LLC., Case No. 2-24-cv-00721, in S. District Court for the District of Utah. The EEOC alleged that HHS Environmental, which provides janitorial and other services to hospitals, violated federal law when a male employee sexually harassed at least three female employees. According to the EEOC, the male employee made inappropriate sexual comments, and repeatedly attempted to inappropriately kiss, touch, and grab the female employees without their permission. Despite the employees’ repeated and persistent reports of harassment, the company took no action for over a year to curb the harassment, and retaliated against the female employees by firing two of them after they reported the harassment. HHS also retaliated against another female victim by doubling her workload until she eventually resigned due to the untenable working conditions. “Federal law prohibits sexual harassment in the workplace, regardless of whether the offender is the owner of the business, a co-worker, a customer or a resident,” said Mary Jo O’Neill regional attorney the EEOC’s Phoenix District Office. “The EEOC has pursued, and will continue to pursue, charges of sexual harassment against employers regardless of the status of the offender. Employers have a legal duty to stop sexual harassment and to protect their workers from such egregious sexual harassment in the workplace.” EEOC Phoenix District Director Melinda Caraballo add that the EEOC is committed to protecting vulnerable workers and will vigorously pursue relief for the victims and in the public interest. “Sexual harassment that alters an employee’s working conditions is a violation of federal law,” Caraballo said. Last fiscal year, the number of charges the EEOC received involving harassment jumped more than 28% to 31,354, the highest since the agency started monitoring harassment charge numbers in fiscal year 2010. Charges involving retaliation reached more than 46,000, a 31-year high. For more information on sexual harassment, please visit https://www.eeoc.gov/sexual-harassment.

Averitt’s charity program donates $100k for hurricane relief

By Dana Guthrie - October 4, 2024

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. – As communities across the region continue to recover from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, Averitt has announced a contribution to support relief efforts. “Our associates and customers have been deeply concerned for the communities and families affected by Hurricane Helene,” said Gary Sasser, chairman and chief executive officer at Averitt. “We want to do our part, and this contribution represents our desire to support recovery efforts and provide relief to those in need.” According to a company press release, In response to the needs of those affected, Averitt is donating $100,000 to Samaritan’s Purse through Averitt Cares for Kids, made possible through associate-driven contributions and a company match to the program. In addition to the monetary support, Averitt associates are donating bottled water and wet wipes as part of the company’s Team Up Community Challenge, Averitt’s community service initiative. These two necessities were chosen by direct feedback from Averitt’s associates in the impacted areas. All of these donations will be collected throughout Averitt’s nationwide distribution network and distributed to associates and communities in need. “Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone who has been affected by this storm,” Sasser said. “We are thankful for the resilience shown by our associates and the communities they call home, and we hope this contribution brings some relief during this difficult time.” Visit Averitt.com/Charities for more information about Averitt’s giving initiatives.

Bernsen receives TAT 2024 Harriet Tubman Award for role in rescuing a human trafficking victim

By Dana Guthrie - October 4, 2024

WESTLAKE, Ohio – Charles Bernsen, general manager of the Petro in Florence, S.C., has been named the winner of the 2024 TAT Harriet Tubman Award, presented by Progressive Commercial for, his role in rescuing a human trafficking victim. Bernsen received the award, which includes a trophy and check for $5,000, from TAT (formerly Truckers Against Trafficking) Executive Director Esther Goetsch and TravelCenters of America CEO Debi Boffa at TA Florence, S.C. on Oct. 2, the location where he worked as general manager when the incident occurred for which he is being recognized. As an added surprise, the trafficking survivor Bernsen aided, Nikki, also attended the awards presentation. This marked the first meeting between the two since the incident that brought them together originally. Bernsen, one of 18,000 TA employees who receive TAT’s human trafficking training annually, noticed a distressed young woman hanging around the store. She would disappear for periods of time into the restroom but then reappear in the lobby area. After a couple days of seeing her repeatedly, Bernsen approached her and asked if she needed help. She burst into tears, telling him she had escaped a man who had been holding her captive in a hotel across the street from the TA where he’d been selling her for sex. Bernsen offered her food, clothing, a blanket and information about TAT. He had her call the National Human Trafficking Hotline and speak to them, and then purchased a bus ticket for her to get home and provided money for expenses along the way. Nikki, later made a video with TAT about her experience and said Bernsen’s soft-spoken demeanor and compassion enabled her to trust him. Bernsen said the TAT training definitely better prepared him for this situation. “Once you’ve been exposed to all this evil, it’s always in the back of your mind that this could be happening, and it could happen in the blink of an eye,” Bernsen said. “The education, the videos and conferences we’ve gone to have been a huge help.” Bernsen added that receiving the award was “very humbling.” “The main thing about this is that it can make everyone else in our company aware that we can make a difference if we pay attention and treat people better,” Bernsen said. “That’s the main take away for me.” TAT created the annual award to honor a member of the trucking, bus or energy industry, whose direct actions help save or improve the lives of those exploited or prevent human trafficking from taking place. “Charles’s vigilance, empathy, and acute actions for Nikki exemplify TAT’s mission,” Goetsch stated. “He knew exactly what to do when he found himself in the right place at the right time, a crucial moment that changed everything for her. Instead of turning a blind eye, he acted with compassion and courage. We are proud and grateful to present Charles with our 2024 Harriet Tubman Award.” The award was named in honor of famed abolitionist Harriet Tubman, whose courageous personal actions resulted in the transportation of 300 slaves to freedom through the Underground Railroad and whose overall role in the freedom movement was instrumental in the freeing of thousands more. “We are extremely proud of the actions Charles took when encountering Nikki and are so grateful for the positive outcome in this situation,” said Boffa. “Charles is a true role model for all our team members, and I know his actions and this award will inspire others when they see something. Here at TA, we remain committed to educating all of our team members on human trafficking awareness and empowering them to take action; they are the eyes and ears of our nation’s highways, and, as Charles has shown, we can make a difference.” A 501c3 organization, TAT stands committed to educate, equip, empower and mobilize members of key industries and agencies to combat human trafficking.

Jim Hawk Truck Trailers celebrates 50th anniversary as Great Dane dealer

By Dana Guthrie - October 3, 2024

COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa — Jim Hawk Truck Trailers is celebrating its 50th anniversary as a Great Dane dealer. “Celebrating 50 years as a Great Dane dealer is a significant milestone and a testament to the dedication and hard work of the entire Jim Hawk team,” said Rick Mullininx, Great Dane president and COO. “Their commitment to providing high-quality products and services has remained unwavering, and we look forward to working together for many more years to come.” According to a company press release, over the past five decades, Jim Hawk has secured its reputation as an industry leader, known for exceptional customer service and a comprehensive range of products and services, with locations in Iowa, Missouri, Illinois and South Dakota. Jim Hawk has been recognized many times for its excellence in the industry. Over the years, the equipment company has won several awards, including Great Dane’s Dealer of the Year, Parts Sales Achievement Awards and multiple Salesman King Pin Awards, which highlight top sales achievements by individual team members. “We’re very proud that Jim Hawk has represented our brand all these years,” said Rob Ulsh, Great Dane vice president of dealer and international sales. “Their values align perfectly with ours, focusing on integrity, innovation, and a customer-first approach. We look forward to celebrating their milestone all year long.” Jim Hawk‘s commitment to excellence extends beyond sales and service. The company sells and ships custom-built and in-stock trailers, featuring a full line of parts, service, and repair facilities to handle all facets of the transportation market. “Remaining a family-owned business and a Great Dane dealer for 50 years has allowed us to develop strong relationships with our customers,” said Jim Hawk, III, president. “Our growth and success are a direct result of the trust and loyalty our customers place in us. We are continuously evolving to meet their needs and exceed their expectations, and we’re proud to celebrate this milestone anniversary.”

Atlas World Group extends chairman & CEO Jack Griffin’s contract

By Dana Guthrie - October 3, 2024

EVANSVILLE, Ind. — The Atlas World Group Board of Directors has extended its contract with Chairman and CEO Jack Griffin, signaling the board’s confidence that Atlas will continue to thrive into 2025 and beyond under his leadership. “Jack Griffin is a leader we trust,” the board said in a media release. “He is a market leader, a thought leader, and a quality leader who has driven Atlas to the forefront of the industry during his tenure. From employees and Agents to customers and shareholders, Jack has all of Atlas’ best interests at heart. Our management team is the strongest we have ever had, and under Jack’s continued leadership and adherence to the Atlas Pathways Strategic Plan, we know this organization will continue to grow.” Elected CEO in November 2016, Griffin has guided the strategic vision of Atlas World Group and its ten subsidiaries while advancing the company’s footprint and position in the relocation, moving, transportation and logistics industries, according to the release. Griffin has more than 30 years of experience in the transportation industry and has led Atlas to some of its greatest successes while navigating a volatile and rapidly changing market. In recent years, Griffin has overseen three major acquisitions, welcomed a leading national moving company back to the Atlas Agent family, and directed an organizational pricing reset that cemented Atlas as the industry leader. “It is a great privilege to serve this company and everyone who relies on Atlas’ services,” Griffin said. “While the past four years have not been without their challenges, I am proud to report that Atlas remains fiscally and operationally strong. I am grateful to the Board for their continued trust and support and am confident that Atlas will carry our steady momentum forward for years to come.”

Driver vindicated in 2022 crash; awarded cash and written apology

By Dana Guthrie - October 3, 2024

SEATTLE — The Washington State Patrol (WSP) has made a $1.3 million payment to a trucker that a WSP sergeant falsely accused of causing a crash in 2022. The payment and a written apology from WSP Chief John R. Batiste settled a potential lawsuit from commercial truck driver Shawn Foutch of Snohomish. “Not only were you involved in a collision caused by a WSP trooper, a WSP sergeant wrongfully had you charged with an infraction as the causing driver,” Batiste said in the letter to Foutch. “The injuries to your person and your truck were then compounded by the potential harm to your reputation and good standing as a professional driver. Batiste also said the the actions were not only reprehensible, but beneath the standards and expectations of the agency. “I want you to know the sergeant no longer serves in the Washington State Patrol or in any other law enforcement capacity,” Batiste said. “Also, others involved in the incident whose actions varied from policy and practice have been reprimanded andor retrained. Speaking for the entire Washington State Patrol, we wish you well going forward.” Foutch was injured in the Aug. 12, 2022 collision on Interstate 5 in Seattle, along with a rookie WSP trooper Phirawat Apisit that hit Foutch’s truck. Foutch was making a routine run when Apisit crossed several lanes of the highway into the path of Foutch’s truck. State patrol reports stated that Apisit was attempting a “rolling slowdown” of highway traffic because of a hazard ahead. Months after the crash, Foutch received a citation for “negligent driving second degree.” While not a criminal charge, the citation marred Foutch’s professional standing in a job that depends on a clean driving record. Footage from Foutch’s dash camera showed the patrol car crossing several lanes of I-5 as Foutch attempted to move out of the vehicle’s path. WSP’s expert crash investigator determined Apisit caused the crash and advised investigators not to cite Foutch. The citation hung over Foutch’s head for months until the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office dismissed the case. In 2023, veteran sergeant Thomas “TJ” Johnson retired from the patrol rather than face the possibility of punishment following a lengthy internal investigation. “We were wrong and we’re sorry,” said Chris Loftis, WSP spokesperson. Loftis added that Johnson pursued the case and pushed it with prosecutors even though there was clear evidence of Foutch’s innocence. Johnson’s lieutenant, Peter A. Cozzitorto, was also investigated and disciplined in the case. He received a written reprimand for a lack of oversight in the investigation. Foutch has mostly recovered from his injuries but has not returned to work.

Mack Trucks awarded new Sourcewell contract

By Dana Guthrie - October 3, 2024

GREENSBORO, N.C. – Mack Trucks has been awarded a new contract with Sourcewell, a government service cooperative offering competitive pricing and volume discounts on Mack trucks to its more than 50,000 members. “During the last four years, Mack Trucks and our dealers have performed very well under our contract, and we are happy with the acceptance from customers,” said Jonathan Randall, president of Mack Trucks North America. “Evident by the steady sales growth throughout our first contract, Sourcewell has become a key part of our municipal business, and we’re honored to have been selected for a new contract.” According to a company press release, government, education and nonprofit agencies partnering with Sourcewell can purchase Mack’s Class 6-8 vehicles — the Mack Anthem, Mack Granite, Mack LR, Mack LR Electric, Mack MD Series, Mack MD Electric, Mack Pinnacle and Mack TerraPro models. Sourcewell is a government agency that saves its member agencies time and money through the efficient cooperative purchasing process. By combining the buying power of its member agencies, Sourcewell offers cooperative purchasing contracts that leverages volumized pricing and reduces the costs of the individual bid development process. During 2022-2023, Sourcewell members purchased more than $7.9 billion in contracted sales. All government and education entities are eligible to register as a participating agency with Sourcewell. “Sourcewell strives to provide high quality products and services through our cooperative purchasing contracts,” said Nick Trout, Sourcewell senior supplier development executive. “In their previous contract with us, Mack proved to be a valuable supplier partner for our participating agencies all across the United States.” Mack Trucks’ Sourcewell contract 032824-MAK is open now and available to Sourcewell members. For more information, please visit www.macktrucks.com, www.sourcewell-mn.gov or a local Mack dealership.

Shippers stress the need for port strike to end

By Dana Guthrie - October 3, 2024

WASHINGTON — The Shippers Coalition is calling for an expedited resolution to the current strike at the East and Gulf Coast Ports. According to a press release from the Shippers Coalition, the ILA and USMX’s failure to negotiate has resulted in an uncertain situation for shippers and consumers with no end in sight to the strike. The supply chain disruptions will only compound, leaving factories and plants closed and consumers with higher prices at stores and empty shelves at stores. “President Biden and his administration must step in and use all the tools at their disposal to end this strike immediately,” the Coalition said. “The devastation from Hurricane Helene makes it more crucial for the President step up, so families do not have to worry about a potential shortage of essential goods.” The Coalition said that, in the meantime, the administration can use other authorities to inject much-needed fluidity into the supply chain, including allowing a waiver for an increase of gross vehicle weight limits on the Federal Interstate system. During this supply chain emergency, trucks could be filled to capacity and goods to be shipped across the country. “If President Biden is not going to use the power granted to him to bring workers back to their jobs, then the administration should use other authorities to make sure goods can get to consumers during times of emergency,” says Sean Joyce, executive director of the Shippers Coalition. “Empty shelves are unacceptable and we demand that the parties come to a resolution, so we don’t cause long-lasting damage to our supply chain.” The Coalition added that the devastating impacts can be mitigated if the MOVE Act was passed by Congress and signed into law. Allowing states to waive Federal weight limits on the Interstate System during emergencies would help modernize the supply chain and keep the flow of goods moving when they are most needed.

Respect the drive: TrueBlue and Centerline Drivers honor the work of drivers

By Dana Guthrie - October 2, 2024

TACOMA, Wash. — TrueBlue and Centerline Drivers, a TrueBlue company, celebrated its fourth annual “Respect the Drive Month” to recognize the important contributions of truck drivers nationwide. “Our drivers are the heartbeat of our organization—delivering excellence mile after mile,” said Jill Quinn, president of Centerline Drivers. “Their dedication, skill and unwavering commitment keep our business moving forward and our customers smiling. We don’t just appreciate our drivers – through Respect the Drive, we celebrate them this month and every day for the incredible work they do. They truly are the unsung heroes of the economy.” According to a company press release, Centerline created “Respect the Drive Month” to honor the work of truck drivers, an effort that has gained urgency as the industry faces a driver shortage of roughly 60,000 drivers according to the American Trucking Association. Centerline’s State of Trucking 2024 survey echoed these challenges, revealing that nearly 25% of drivers reported feeling underappreciated as a key reason for seeking a new profession this year. During this year’s observance, Centerline also introduced the Respect the Drive Customer Awards program to acknowledge companies that support the trucking industry. The initiative features multiple award categories to recognize companies that demonstrate leadership in safety, inclusivity, and fostering a positive culture for drivers. Categories include: Open Road Award: Recognizing efforts to make the industry more inclusive. Driver Culture Award: Celebrating companies that prioritize a supportive environment for drivers. Safety Award: Honoring those committed to ongoing driver safety and training. Respect the Drive Award: The highest honor, encompassing all aspects of safety, inclusivity, and culture. “Centerline is dedicated to celebrating the hard work and achievements of its drivers year-round,” the company said in the release. “Through programs like Respect the Drive, the company continues to recognize drivers’ dedication, loyalty and the vital role they play in supporting its customers.”

PrePass integrates with Motive to enhance fleet operations

By Dana Guthrie - October 2, 2024

PHOENIX, Az. — PrePass is now available on the Motive Marketplace through a new partnership with AI-powered integrated operations platform Motive, offering its comprehensive suite of services. “This new partnership with Motive will help fleets optimize their operations by delivering more value today and into the future,” said Chris Murray, president of PrePass. “As the only integrated bypass and tolling solution, we maximize their investment in telematics platforms by enabling more bypass opportunities, delivering substantial toll cost savings, and enhancing the experience for drivers and back-office staff.” According to a media release, the integration empowers fleets with seamless access to PrePass‘ industry-leading integrated weigh station bypass and toll management services, significantly enhancing fleet safety, productivity and profitability. Customers will benefit from fewer weigh station stops and improved bypass reliability with the PrePass app and transponder. Additionally, Motive and PrePass customers will gain access to PrePass GPS Toll Verification, an innovative new service that saves fleets time and money by matching GPS location to toll charges. By surfacing toll charge inaccuracies, PrePass can file and resolve disputes on behalf of its customers, ensuring accurate toll payments and reducing operational costs. “Through our partnership, fleets can use PrePass to optimize routes, reduce expenses, and enhance safety,” said Harvey Grasty, senior director of partnerships at Motive. “With PrePass integrated into Motive’s platform, fleets can save time by bypassing weigh stations and improve operations by relying on one unified platform for comprehensive support, toll management, and dispute resolution.” For more information about the integration and services, visit PrePass.com.

Hirschbach Motor Lines wins 2024 SmartWay Excellence Award

By Dana Guthrie - October 2, 2024

DUBUQUE, Iowa — Hirschbach Motor Lines Inc. was recently honored with a SmartWay Excellence Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as an industry leader in freight supply chain environmental performance and energy efficiency. According to a media release, The Excellence Award recognizes the top two percent of leading shippers and truck carriers among more than 4,000 SmartWay Partners. Hirschbach was recognized for their superior freight sustainability leadership. Brad Pinchuk, owner of Hirschbach Motor Lines, and Fred Staugh, Chief Maintenance Officer, received this award on behalf of the company. Government officials gave keynote remarks, touching briefly on the SmartWay program, its goals and SmartWay accomplishments in North America.

Breaking barriers: The inspiring story of driver Julia Lepek

By Dana Guthrie - October 2, 2024

While women drivers are making waves in the United States and across the world, according to statistics, only two to three percent of all trucks in Germany are driven by women. This fact makes many of these women, like Julia Lepek, all the more enthusiastic about driving. Born in Poland, she has lived in Germany since 2013, and what she appreciates most is the assistance systems on board these vehicles. Alternating between driving a Mercedes-Benz Actros and an Actros L for the shipping company Große-Vehne Speditions GmbH in Kornwestheim near Stuttgart. When Lepek talks about her everyday life as a professional driver, it quickly becomes clear that many of her male colleagues underestimate her ability behind the wheel of a truck. However, it is not enough to take the fun out of the job for her. “That’s the reality, unfortunately,” Lepek said. “I always like showing men that I can do this. If a man can work in a nail salon or do make-up, why shouldn’t I be able to drive a truck as a woman?” Lepek said she often catches surprised glances as she overtakes other vehicles on the highway and she sees others watching with excitement as she skillfully performs difficult maneuvers on the delivery ramp. Lepek also notices the critical looks she receives in other traffic situations. Lepek has driven her Mercedes-Benz Actros for five years now, loaded mainly with parts for passenger cars trucks, and buses bearing the three-pointed star, and primarily across southern Germany and France for Große-Vehne Speditions GmbH. This shipping company specializes in logistical services for sectors including the automotive, textile, and beverage industries. Prior to this, Lepek completed three years of professional driver training with the cooperative network GV Trucknet, which operates almost 1,200 of its own trucks – mostly from Mercedes-Benz. “There have always been a lot of truck drivers in my family. As a young girl, I was fascinated by the job and, above all, by the vehicles themselves,” Lepek said. “I always like the feeling I get when I climb in my truck and hit the road – you feel free somehow, and you have the opportunity to discover new areas.” At the same time, her job has helped her become more self-confident. “This is because I mastered my training program with ease,” Lepek said. As such, she can also give some useful tips to her younger female colleagues at the company who are currently working on their professional driver training and who frequently accompany her on her trips. Lepek travels almost 100,000 kilometers per year easily and it goes without saying that she has had to master many different hazardous traffic situations. “But I feel very safe in my Actros,” Lepek said. According to Lepek, at Große-Vehne, the primary focus is on using the high-tech equipment in its trucks in addition to the assistance systems already required. “The comfort and safety of our drivers is our top priority,” said René Große-Vehne, managing director of GV Management. Lepek considers the Active Brake Assist 5 on board her Actros to be incredibly valuable, as it has already served her well on many occasions. “I could not have braked so quickly myself in many situations because my view was obstructed, but fortunately Active Brake Assist 5 responded immediately and brought my truck to a stop,” Lepek said. “In my opinion, women generally drive more defensively, think ahead a lot, take fewer risks, and keep more distance.” Lepek said that in her experience, respect for other drivers has decreased and aggressiveness has increased. When asked about her dream truck, the answer was immediate. Lepek’s dream truck is an Actros L in pink with a GigaSpace cab. She already drives a silver Actros L on occasion. In addition to the classic assistance systems, Lepek values the MirrorCam, the Multimedia Cockpit and the fuel efficiency and economy of the third-generation OM 471 commercial vehicle engine. But it will soon be time for her to switch gears in terms of drive technology, because her next vehicle will be an eActros 300. “I am very much looking forward to this, because the vehicle dynamics, the silent cruising, and the barely noticeable gear changes are very impressive,” Lepek said. “The most important thing for me is to arrive at my destination without an accident.”

Rescue, relief and recovery: States reeling from Helene; travel still dangerous in some areas

By Dana Guthrie - October 2, 2024

Hurricane Helene is still reeking havoc in North Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia. While the severe weather threat is over, the devastation left in its wake could take years to overcome. North Carolina Search and rescue efforts continue in Western North Carolina amidst simultaneous coordinated efforts to restore critical infrastructure and bring much needed food, water and other necessities to communities impacted by Hurricane Helene according to a press release from the Governor Roy Cooper’s office. “The response to this crisis so far has been a massive effort of coordination and logistics,” said Cooper. “As emergency responders continue search and rescue operations in Western North Carolina, local, state, federal, private and non-profit partners continue to work in concert to provide food, water, shelter and other basic necessities for people in need. Simultaneously, thousands of private sector and government employees are working 24/7 to restore critical infrastructure including power, water, wastewater treatment, cellular phone service and internet connectivity.” Travel remains dangerous, with approximately 400 roads remain closed. NCDOT is asking people to refrain from unnecessary travel to or in Western North Carolina. The focus is on restoring primary roads and access to communities that have been isolated by damage. First responders also want to keep the roads as clear as possible to help ensure they may carry out all response missions. NCDOT has dispatched the following resources to assist with the recovery process: 1,500+ employees. 1,500+ trucks, graders & backhoes/loaders. 1,000+ chainsaws. 8,000+ barricades & signs. Efforts are underway to provide food, water and basic necessities to residents in affected communities, utilizing both ground resources and air drops from the NC National Guard, according to Cooper. FEMA has delivered 18 trailers of food and water this morning and expects to have both a trailer of food and a trailer of water each delivered to 34 counties by the end of today. More than 20,000 people have been registered for assistance. Buncombe County – Biltmore Baptist Church, 35 Clayton Road, Arden, N.C. 28704 McDowell County – Grace Community Church, 5182 Highway 70 West, Marion, N.C. 28752 Watauga County – First Baptist Church, 375 West King Street, Boone, N.C. 28607 Search and rescue operations are ongoing in Western North Carolina. Teams, including 16 from other states with a total of 57 teams as far west as Colorado and as far north as New Hampshire, plus 18 federal teams, have rescued more than 440 people and evacuated an additional nearly 4,700. More than 400 people have been rescued by the NC National Guard. More than 110 pets have also been rescued.Forty-two storm-related deaths have been confirmed in North Carolina by Office of Chief Medical Examiner. We do expect that these numbers will continue to rise over the coming days. The North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will continue to confirm numbers twice daily. If there is an emergency or believe that someone is in danger, please call 911. To report that you have been unable to reach a person in Western North Carolina, please call 211. To report a missing person or request non-emergency support, please call NC 211 or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state. If you are seeking a representative from the North Carolina Joint Information Center, please email [email protected] or call 919-825-2599. If you would like general information, access to resources, or answers to frequently asked questions, please visit ncdps.gov/helene. Tennessee On Tuesday, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee traveled to East Tennessee to survey storm damage on the ground and meet with local officials and victims following severe weather and flooding from Hurricane Helene. Accompanied by Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) Director Patrick Sheehan, Senator Marsha Blackburn, Senator Bill Hagerty, Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger and state officials, the Governor viewed damage and visited impacted communities. “Maria and I are deeply saddened by the loss of life and severe flood damage in East Tennessee,” Lee said. “We continue to pray alongside Tennesseans as we endure this heartbreaking tragedy. I thank state and local emergency officials, law enforcement, first responders and road crews for quickly responding to assist impacted communities and prevent further tragedy, and Tennessee is doing everything we can to support local recovery efforts.” Many roads and bridges in Upper East Tennessee have been compromised due to recent severe weather, according to TDOT. All roads in Upper East should be considered potentially hazardous, and motorists should avoid traveling in these areas unless seeking higher ground. Motorists should adhere to all road closure signage and barricades, and should never attempt to drive through standing water. The counties with the most significant damage are Washington, Carter, Unicoi, Johnson, Greene, and Cocke, but this has a major impact across East Tennessee. Long-term closures will be in place across the region as many routes will require significant repairs and for others, a total rebuild. Destroyed Bridges include: Washington SR-81 Nolichucky River Bridge Washington SR-353 Nolichucky River Bridge Greene SR-107 Nolichucky River Bridge Unicoi I-26 Bridge @MM 39.6 Eastbound Unicoi I-26 Bridge @MM 39.6 Westbound Of the 13 state bridges originally closed, 7 of those have reopened. In addition, TDOT Crews have assessed 47 routes and have repaired and reopened 25 routes. Thursday, crews will prioritize the inspections for locally-owned bridges, 102 in total. Twelve of those have either been washed out or are currently closed, 90 still need assessment. Close to 400 TDOT team members from all four regions mobilized to report to the hardest-hit areas including TDOT employees specializing in Geotech, survey, bridge inspection, design, project development right of way, and maintenance personnel in the field. They are prioritizing connectivity and infrastructure repairs necessary to connect people to their greatest needs such as hospitals, food, shelter, and water. To bolster efforts and restore our transportation system as safely and quickly as possible, TDOT has already executed four construction contracts and four debris removal contracts to supplement our crews. These additional assets are already on the ground working. More will be awarded in the upcoming weeks. Additionally, two alternative delivery advertisements are underway, which allows us to move more quickly in getting infrastructure back online for these communities that so desperately need it. TDOT crews are committed to rebuilding East Tennessee. Many are from the area, and some have even lost their home and possessions, but continue to show up to work. For the most up-to-date closures, please check SmartWay or call 511 for statewide travel information. TDOT will continue to post updates on all its social media platforms. Follow @myTDOT on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Georgia According to GDOT, almost state routes were impassable due to debris or power lines in the road or flooding and more than 100 damaged traffic signal heads. Lowndes County and those east of Interstate 75, including Cook, Berrien, Atkinson and Coffee, were heavily damaged. The GDOT district covers 31 counties and borders Florida. Recovery efforts started immediately and have been aided by Georgia DOT employees from other areas of the state and contractors. The majority of signals are now up and running, some on generators until power is restored. Timber poles will be installed at four intersections to make them operational until they can be rebuilt with mast arms, Chambers said. “We’re in pretty good shape,” said Scott Chambers, GDOT Southwest District Engineer. Recovery efforts started immediately and have been aided by Georgia DOT employees from other areas of the state and contractors. The majority of signals are now up and running, some on generators until power is restored. Timber poles will be installed at four intersections to make them operational until they can be rebuilt with mast arms, Chambers said. Georgia law says an intersection with non-functioning traffic signals should be treated as a four-way stop. GDOT installed temporary stop signs on construction barrels at some intersections where signals are gone or not working, like busy State Route (SR) 32 and SR 206 in Douglas. However, some drivers continue to drive through without stopping. GDOT crews continued pushing debris off state routes Tuesday, but there are seven locations they can’t touch because power lines are in the trees. The roads are passable, but drivers should remain alert for obstructions and be prepared to slow down or stop. With the progress made in clearing, a contractor plans to start hauling debris from state routes Wednesday. The trailers used by the contractor are much larger than Georgia DOT dump trucks. Please use caution when approaching the trucks and avoid crowding them. Residents who have questions about debris removal on city streets or county roads should contact their local Emergency Management Agency.