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Dobbs Truck Group opens new TRP-Tacoma store

TACOMA, Wash. — Following the opening of Dobbs Peterbilt-Sumner, the flagship dealership location serving customers in the Puget Sound area of Washington, Dobbs Peterbilt-Tacoma has been rebranded and opened as a new Dobbs TRP location known as Dobbs TRP-Tacoma. Operated by Dobbs Truck Group, Dobbs TRP-Tacoma is the second TRP store location for the dealer group, according to a news release. Dobbs TRP-Tacoma features a wide range of quality parts for trucks, trailers and buses of all makes and models. TRP parts, distributed exclusively by PACCAR Parts, a division of Paccar Inc., offers aftermarket products that are designed and tested to meet customers’ expectations for quality and value. “We are extremely pleased to expand our after sales support network with our new TRP-Tacoma location,” Olen Hunter, executive vice president of Dobbs Truck Group-West, said. “This location will provide customers with excellent access to quality parts for all makes and models of trucks, trailers and buses in the South Puget Sound area. Our partnership with PACCAR Parts has allowed us to expand our customer service footprint throughout our dealer network. This new location is conveniently located off I-5, with easy access to and from the freeway, and in close proximity to the Port of Tacoma where there is a large vehicle population.”

Averitt delivers record donation of more than $1.2 million to St. Jude

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Truck drivers and other employees of Averitt Express recently set a new standard for their largest donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, raising $1,200,001 in 2022. The contribution was recently presented to St. Jude, marking the fourth consecutive year Averitt has given at least $1 million to the hospital, according to a news release. It’s also the eighth consecutive year Averitt employees have either matched or broken their fundraising record. As has become the tradition for the last several years, the extra $1 represents what Averitt calls “The Power of One,” showing the difference every person can make. The news release noted that this milestone was made possible by contributions from Averitt employees and retirees participating in Averitt Cares for Kids, the company’s charitable employee-giving program. More than 94% of Averitt associates are members of Averitt Cares for Kids, giving $1 per week to help St. Jude and other important causes. T The donation was also bolstered by a company contribution of $750,000 in honor of associates’ accomplishments, life events and participation in community service projects. “I’m humbled by the way our associates come together to support the good works of St. Jude,” Gary Sasser, Averitt’s chairman and chief executive officer, said. “For more than 50 years, we’ve been committed to helping others, and I’m even more excited about how we can help the children of St. Jude in the future through Averitt Cares for Kids.” Averitt Cares for Kids began in 1987 and has contributed more than $14 million to numerous charities, including over $11 million to St. Jude, according to the news release. Since 1990, Averitt Cares for Kids contributions have been designated to St. Jude as part of their special partnership. And in 1997, Averitt Cares for Kids completed a $1.5 million endowment to help fund the initial construction of the St. Jude Leukemia and Lymphoma Clinic — 80% of all St. Jude patients visit the clinic at some point during their treatment. For more information about Averitt Cares for Kids, click here.

ContainerPort Group expands Philadelphia operations

CLEVELAND —  In response to increased demand in Philadelphia, ContainerPort Group (CPG), a nationwide trucking carrier specializing in drayage solutions, has announced an expanded footprint in the market with additional freight capacity and increased driver support. “As the cargo continues to flow through the east coast, our customers are turning to us for additional trucking capacity throughout the Northeast, and particularly in Philadelphia,” CPG President Joey Palmer said. “We already have a presence across other ports including New York/New Jersey, Norfolk, Baltimore and more, so broadening our footprint to include Philadelphia was a next logical step for our business and for our customers. We will continue to grow and deepen our presence in the region based on the needs of our customers and the market.” To help support operations, the company has already added several veteran owner operators carrying a variety of endorsements, as well as a fleet of private chassis, according to a news release. “Customers can take advantage of Philadelphia’s centralized location to reach nearly 41 million people within a 150-mile radius of the port,” the news release stated. “CPG’s growth in Philadelphia demonstrates the company’s commitment to providing nationwide coverage at every port and every rail.” Earlier this month, CPG announced it had opened a new terminal in Jacksonville to accommodate growing demand in the Southeast region. Additionally, the company recently began offering dedicated services across several locations, providing guaranteed capacity to customers needing white-glove service. “Much of our strategy for growth is driven by customer demand,” Palmer said. “This is not only reflected in our decision to expand our footprint in Philly and Jacksonville, but it can also be seen in our evolving portfolio of services and solutions. Our goal is to be everywhere our customers need us to be and to provide the solutions both our drivers and our customers need.”

Bo Johnson promoted to general manager at Dobbs Peterbilt

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Bo Johnson has been promoted to general manager of Dobbs Truck Group’s Peterbilt division in Little Rock. According to a news release, Johnson previously served as the regional used truck manager-south at the company. His responsibilities included managing used truck sales representatives at multiple locations, as well as approving the purchase, trade and sale of all used trucks, according to a news release. A graduate of The University of Mississippi, Johnson has 12 years of industry experience, with five years at Paccar running used truck sales operations from their Kenworth division. “We look forward to the impact Bo will make in his new role,” the news release stated.

Tesla snags $330M tax deal for Nevada expansion, including electric big rig plant

LAS VEGAS  — Tesla has won more than $330 million in tax breaks from Nevada for the company’s commitment to a massive expansion of its sprawling vehicle battery facilities east of Reno, including the construction of a new electric semi-truck factory. Approval from the Governor’s Office of Economic Development on Thursday, March 2, came as Gov. Joe Lombardo cited the benefit of good-paying jobs and a nearly decade-long boost to the local economy around Tesla’s huge Gigafactory. Critics said that working-class families have been left out of the equation because the state agreed in 2014 to provide more than $1 billion in tax breaks to lure Tesla to Nevada. The deal is the latest to mark northern Nevada as a focal point in the U.S. transition to green energy, as Democratic President Joe Biden’s administration seeks to move away from gas-powered vehicles in the larger fight against climate change. “Tesla has far exceeded every promise they made going back to 2014,” said Lombardo, a Republican who chairs the board made up of top state elected, education and business officials. Lombardo, who took office in January after defeating Democratic Gov. Steve Sisolak in November, has proposed a two-year state budget of $11 billion. He tweeted a photo of himself Jan. 24 with Tesla CEO Elon Musk at the industrial park east of Reno-Sparks and called the pending agreement “an incredible investment in our state.” Musk also owns Twitter and the rocket company SpaceX. However, the $330 million figure remained secret until Monday, Feb. 27, because of a nondisclosure agreement between Tesla and state officials. The complaints from lawmakers in the Democratic-controlled state Legislature about having only three days to review a 20-year tax abatement. “There is little to no opportunity to explore how this deal may affect housing supply, public schools, public safety, and other vital government services in the region,” Sen. Dina Neal said in a statement. The Democrat from North Las Vegas who chairs the chamber’s Revenue and Economic Development Committee did not immediately respond to messages seeking further comment. Bob Fulkerson, a longtime social-justice organizer in Reno who raised similar concerns, said the needs of working-class families are being ignored “while my revenue-starved state gives almost $2 billion in tax subsidies to the world’s richest man in less than 10 years.” “This game has been rigged, just like 2014 when those proceedings were also shrouded in secrecy and Tesla pitted us against (California and Texas) in a bidding war that made the governor and Legislature think we had to sell the farm,” Fulkerson said. Lombardo’s statement said Tesla has spent $6.2 billion on its existing 5.4 million square foot (501,676-square-meter) Gigafactory, which the governor said provided 17,000 construction jobs and more than 11,000 “highly paid permanent jobs.” Tesla projects it will make another $3.6 billion capital investment, creating 3,000 jobs at an average hourly rate of $33.49 with health insurance for 91% of its employees. The company plans to add 4 million square feet (371,612 square meters) of production space at two new factories at the Truckee-Reno Industrial Center, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) east of Reno-Sparks along Interstate 80. One plant will have capacity to produce batteries for 1.5 million light-duty vehicles a year, the company said. The other will have Tesla’s first production line for electric combination trucks. Musk has said the goal is a battery range of 500 miles (805 kilometers) when pulling an 82,000-pound (37,000-kilogram) load. Public support for the deal came from the White House and Mitch Landrieu, Biden’s infrastructure chief. Support also came from University of Nevada, Reno President Brian Sandoval, a Republican who as Nevada governor approved an initial $1.3 billion Tesla abatement deal in 2014, and a preschool at the factory site that said it will expand its hours to accommodate workers. Three elected lawmakers in rural Storey County, where the Tesla factory is located, lauded the economic benefit to the region. But they said the county of just 4,100 permanent residents deserves more tax revenue to support infrastructure and services, including police, fire and EMS. Tom Burns, executive director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development, said in a statement that Tesla’s Gigafactory has propelled the state manufacturing industry and established lithium-ion batteries as the state’s eighth-largest export. A Nevada-based recycling plant for electric vehicle batteries won a $2 billion green energy loan from the Biden administration in February. On Wednesday, March 1, a federal appeals court refused to block construction of the largest lithium mine in the U.S. about 200 miles northeast of Reno, where Lithium Nevada Corp. has now begun work. The San Francisco-based court is considering claims by conservationists and tribes that the government illegally approved it in a rush to produce raw materials for electric vehicle batteries.

WIT announces 2023’s list of Top Women to Watch in Transportation

ARLINGTON, Va. — Eighty-six women have been named to the 2023 Women In Trucking Association’s (WIT) sixth annual list of Top Women to Watch for in Transportation. This year’s women work for a broad range of company types, including motor carriers, third-party logistics companies, equipment manufacturers, retailer truck dealers, professional services companies, technology innovators and private fleets, according to a news release. Their job functions include corporate management (23%), operations/safety (36%), human resources/talent management (8%), sales/marketing (20%) and engineering/product development (8%). Another 5% are professional drivers. “We were thoroughly impressed this year with the sheer number of nominations we received for highly qualified and outstanding women who have excelled in a male-populated industry,” Brian Everett, group editorial director and publisher of Redefining the Road magazine, said. “We are pleased to take this opportunity to highlight the achievements of more than 80 incredibly talented and valuable women.” Jennifer Hedrick, WIT president and CEO, said that many women in transportation have made successful careers while having positive impacts on their company’s success. “As part of WIT’s mission to recognize the achievements of individuals, for the past six years our official magazine Redefining the Road has used this recognition program to acknowledge the accomplishments of impressive female professionals who work in our industry,” Hendrick added. The 2023 Top Women to Watch in Transportation are: Lina Acosta, chief marketing officer, GLT Logistics. Marcela Barreiro, president & CEO, Daimler Truck Mexico. Candy Bass, professional driver, Transport Designs. Mingshu Bates, chief analytics officer, AFS Logistics. Genevieve Bekkerus, director of marketing, Kenworth Truck Co. Soona Bernstein, partner program lead, Kodiak Robotics. Gina Billings, vice president, marketing & communications, Averitt Express. Christine Brown, associate vice president, technology delivery, Day & Ross. Joanna Buttler, head of global autonomous technology, Daimler Truck AG. Desiree Caldwell, director of operations, people & culture, Elite HR Logistics, Inc. Mary Clarke, enterprise digital media manager, CDLLife. Jamie Creekmore, VP of Midwest region for CHESI, Clean Harbors. Endrea Davisson, professional driver, CFI. Monique de Boer, reliability manager, Peterbilt Motors Company. Janice Delvecchio, senior vice president, human resources, PLM Fleet. Donna Deyo, vice president operations, PACCAR Winch. Leanne Drummond, business development manager, CPC Logistics. Vontyna Durham, president, Xcelente Trucking & Logistics. Jennifer Edwards, senior director of sales, The Evans Network Companies. Nina Eiland, vice president of people, Alabama Motor Express. Angela Eliacostas, president & founder, AGT Global Logistics. Sara Ellis, operations team leader, Fraley & Schilling. Madison Eschle, chief people officer, Andrews Logistics. Elizabeth Gomez, marketing manager, Fleet Advantage. Lisa Gonnerman, president of trucking, Bay & Bay Transportation. Amy Graves, senior driver manager, May Trucking Company. Vicki Green, marketing & sales director – Global Connected Services, PACCAR. Teri Greenwood, chief underwriting officer, Northland Insurance. Katie Griffin, director of fleet safety, Leonard’s Express. Carrie Hall, director of client services, Inflection Poynt. Jessica Hart, VP, government services management, TRAFFIX. Karen Hines, senior national sales director, Conversion Interactive Agency. Jill Hostetter, vice president of product management, Zonar. Joanna Hutton, director of sales, Ryder System, Inc. Stormie Janzen, vice president of safety & recruiting, Total Transportation of Mississippi. Jessica Jasso, director of customer experience, U.S. Xpress. Leslie Karr, group director, customer success, Ryder System, Inc. Mary Kearney, director of business development, Tucker Freight Lines. Margaret Kennie, lead driver, Bob’s Discount Furniture. Samka Keranovic, vice president & COO, U.S. Truck Driver Training School. Jessica Kim, head of marketing, Pitstop. Ashley Kordish, CEO, Ralph Moyle, Inc. Amanda Kremer, senior program manager, Kenworth Truck Co. Lauren Kwan, VP of marketing, Plus. Candace Latnie, technical project manager, advanced driver assistance systems, Navistar. Lori Lederman, director of warranty, Peterbilt Motors Company. Angela Lentz, chief people officer, Daimler Truck North America. Alana Long, executive administration & HR, Candor Expedite. Tori Longan, senior director of sales, J.B. Hunt. Annie Lowery, director of financial planning & analytics, Saia LTL Freight. Molly Mangan, SVP of sales, Echo Global Logistics. Loan Mansy, EVP of CHESI sales & services, Clean Harbors. Samantha McCracken, executive director commercial supply chain, Bridgestone Americas. Elizabeth McMillan, district parts manager, Volvo Group North America. Laura Mendoza, senior director of customer solutions, DAT Freight & Analytics. Lauren Meneau, director of customer service, R.E. Garrison. Christiane Meyer, director of strategic accounts, Penske Logistics. Lisa Mitchell, regional vice president, Western Territories, TransForce. Claire Mules, president, Assurance Resources, Inc. (ARI). Sarah Newman, president, BM2 Freight Services, Inc. Misti Olszewski, VP, enterprise safety, Covenant Logistics Lisa Owens, training manager, UPS. Virginia Palafox, district manager, Waste Connections. Kelly Parish, director technologies, Yellow. Esther Parsons, road driver, Yellow. Rachael Partridge, transportation safety and compliance analyst, Gordon Food Service. Priscilla Peters, vice president of marketing & training, Conversion Interactive Agency. Denise Plumb, feeder division manager, UPS. Antonia Popova, director, customer accounts, RXO. Chelsey Reynolds, VP, finance, Envase Technologies. Kristin Ridley, marketing communications manager, Rihm Family Companies. Michele Rodgers, resident engineering manager, Peterbilt Motor Company. Ivelise Rodriguez, corporate accounts business development director, Yellow. Angie Schneider, regional sales administration manager, Premier Truck Group. Sara Shah, director of recruiting & HR, Tri-National, Inc. Emily Soloby, founder & CEO, Juno Jones. Kate Speer, VP of marketing, engagement & investor relations, JLE Industries. Marilyn Surber, transportation advisor, Tenstreet. Mardi Tagmeyer, senior manager of customer operations, Emerge. Kimberly Torres, senior service center manager, XPO. Erin Van Zeeland, chief commercial officer & group senior vice president/general manager, logistics, Schneider. Rose VanWey, director of van services, Atlantic Logistics. Azra Walter, director of safety, Artur Express, Inc. Brooke Weeks, senior manager II, fleet sustainability engineering, Walmart. Pam Wills-Ward, chief people & strategy officer, MW Logistics, LLC. Sherryann Wilson, recruiter, Trimac Transportation. This year’s recognition program is sponsored by PACCAR. The women will be featured in the upcoming edition of WIT’s Redefining the Road magazine and online at womenintrucking.org/top-women-to-watch.

Yellen tells Congress US banking system ‘remains sound’

WASHINGTON — A week after the second-largest bank collapse in U.S. history, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen told the Senate Finance Committee on Thursday, March 16, that the nation’s banking system “remains sound” and Americans “can feel confident” about their deposits. Yellen is the first Biden administration official to face lawmakers over the decision to protect uninsured money at two failed regional banks, a move that some Republicans have criticized as a bank “bailout.” “The government took decisive and forceful actions to strengthen public confidence” in the U.S. banking system, Yellen said in testimony before the committee. “I can reassure the members of the Committee that our banking system remains sound, and that Americans can feel confident that their deposits will be there when they need them.” In less than a week, Silicon Valley Bank, based in Santa Clara, California, failed after depositors rushed to withdraw money amid anxiety over the bank’s health. Then, regulators convened over the weekend and announced that New York-based Signature Bank also failed. They ensured all depositors, including those holding uninsured funds exceeding $250,000, were protected by federal deposit insurance. The Justice Department and the Securities and Exchange Commission have since launched investigations into the Silicon Valley Bank collapse. Thursday’s hearing, meant to address President Joe Biden’s budget proposal, comes after the sudden collapse of the nation’s 16th-biggest bank and go-to financial institution for tech entrepreneurs. While Yellen prepared to talk about spending proposals, the hearing inevitably turned to the government’s decision-making process to intervene in the bank failure. “Nerves are certainly frayed at this moment,” said Sen. Ron Wyden, chairman of the committee. “One of the most important steps the Congress can take now is make sure there are no questions about the full faith and credit of the United States,” he said, referring to raising the debt ceiling. Mike Crapo of Idaho, the committee’s top Republican, said, “I’m concerned about the precedent of guaranteeing all deposits,” calling the federal rescue action a “moral hazard.” Yellen said on CBS’ “Face the Nation” last Sunday that a bailout was not on the table, stating, “we’re not going to do that again,” referring to the U.S. government’s response to the 2008 financial crisis, which led to massive government rescue policies to large U.S. banks. Yellen, a former Federal Reserve chair and past president of the San Francisco Federal Reserve during the 2008 financial crisis, was a leading figure in the resolution this past weekend, which was engineered to prevent a wider systemic problem in the banking sector. “This week’s actions demonstrate our resolute commitment to ensure that depositors’ savings remain safe,” she said.

Love’s Travel Stops opens locations in Florida, Texas, Indiana 

OKLAHOMA CITY — Love’s Travel Stops is now serving customers in Jacksonville, Florida, New Boston, Texas, and Lafayette, Indiana, thanks to three new travel stops that opened recently. According to a news release, the Jacksonville location adds 80 jobs and 93 truck parking spaces to Duval County; the New Boston location adds 100 jobs and 86 truck parking spaces to Bowie County; and the Lafayette location adds 95 jobs and 64 truck parking spaces to Tippecanoe County. The company is also serving customers once again at its Gary, Indiana, location that was closed last year after a fire. The store was demolished and rebuilt to include more square footage, parking spaces and updated amenities including the third Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill at a Love’s location. It also adds 90 jobs and 154 truck parking spaces to Lake County. “As we move into 2023, Love’s continues to be focused on providing customers with the amenities and customer service they expect when they stop at one of our locations,” said Shane Wharton, president of Love’s. “Reopening the Gary location and adding new stores in Jacksonville, New Boston and Lafayette strengthens our commitment to providing additional safe, clean and well-maintained locations and getting customers back on the road quickly.” LOCATION DETAILS New Boston, Texas  More than 13,000 square feet.   Arby’s.  86 truck parking spaces.  71 car parking spaces.  Nine diesel bays.  Ten showers.  Laundry facilities.  CAT scale.   Speedco.  Jacksonville, Florida  More than 12,000 square feet.   Bojangles.  93 truck parking spaces.  100 car parking spaces.  Five RV Hookups  Eight diesel bays.  Seven showers.  Laundry facilities.  CAT scale.    Speedco.  Gary, Indiana  More than 15,000 square feet.   Godfather’s Pizza and Naf Naf.  154 truck parking spaces.  97 car parking spaces.  Five RV parking spaces.  15 diesel bays.  Nine showers.  Laundry facilities.  CAT scale.   Speedco (opening summer 2023).  Lafayette, Indiana More than 13,000 square feet. Hardee’s (Opening March 20). 64 truck parking spaces. 85 car parking spaces. Nine diesel bays. Seven showers. Laundry facilities. CAT scale. Speedco (opening April 3). In honor of the grand openings, Love’s will donate $2,000 to nonprofit organizations in each community including: Jacksonville: First Coast High School. New Boston: United Fund of New Boston. Gary: Sojourner Truth House and Boys & Girls Club of Greater Northwest Indiana. Lafayette: Heartford House Child Advocacy Center.  

Van spot rates give back all their gains in just 1 week

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — A week after posting their strongest gains of the year, broker-posted dry van and refrigerated spot rates in the Truckstop system fell by about the same amount during the week ended March 10 (week 10) that they had increased the week before, according to the newest report from Truckstop and FTR Transport Intelligence. Meanwhile, the flatbed segment recorded its largest single-week drop in rates since August. Spot load activity declined following the prior week’s jump that had been driven mostly by flatbed. Most of the volume weakness occurred in the van segments.   Spot load activity fell more than 5% after surging nearly 17% during the prior week, the FTR report noted.Volume was almost 57% below the same week last year and about 30% below the five-year average. Loads were up in the Southeast and South Central regions but down fairly sharply elsewhere. Truck postings ticked up 1%, and the Market Demand Index — the ratio of loads to trucks — fell. The total broker-posted spot market rate declined just over 5 cents. Total rates were about 20% below the same 2022 week but more than 2% above the five-year average. FTR estimates that rates excluding a calculated fuel surcharge were about 21% below the same 2022 week. Dry van spot rates decreased about 5 cents, slightly exceeding the gain of just over 4 cents in the prior week. Rates were almost 27% below the same 2022 week and nearly 8% below the five-year average for the week. Excluding a fuel surcharge, rates were about 30% lower than in the same week last year. Dry van loads decreased nearly 11%. Volume was almost 56% below the same week last year and about 34% below the five-year average for the week. Loads were down in all regions, although the declines were milder in the Southeast and South Central regions than elsewhere. Refrigerated spot rates declined about 4 cents, which was the same scope as the increase in the previous week. Rates were about 25% below the same 2022 week and nearly 6% below the five-year average for the week. Excluding fuel surcharges, rates were about 28% below the same week last year. Refrigerated loads fell 11%. Volume was about 59% below the same week last year and nearly 36% below the five-year average for the week. Load activity was up in the Southeast but down in all other regions, although the decrease in the South Central region was much smaller than other regions. Flatbed spot rates fell nearly 8 cents for the largest weekly decline since week 33 of last year. Rates were about 19% below the same 2022 week but 5% above the five-year average for the week. Excluding an imputed surcharge, flatbed rates were about 20% below the same week last year. Flatbed loads dipped more than 1% after surging more than 27% in the previous week. Volume was nearly 60% below the same week last year and more than 31% below the five-year average for the week. Load activity was up in the Southeast and South Central regions but down elsewhere.

Is my money safe? What you need to know about recent bank failures

NEW YORK — The recent failures of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank, which catered mostly to the tech industry, may have you worried about your money. They were the second- and third-biggest bank failures in U.S. history. It all started last week when too many depositors tried to withdraw their money from Silicon Valley Bank in Santa Clara, California. That’s known as a bank run. The bank had to sell treasury bonds and other securities at a steep loss and more people kept trying to withdraw money as word of the situation spread, causing the bank to fail. Regulators took control of New York-based Signature Bank soon after, saying it was necessary to protect depositors after too many people withdrew money. In response, regulators guaranteed all deposits at the two banks and created a program to help shield other banks to shield them from a run on deposits. Here’s what you need to know: IS MY MONEY SAFE? Yes, if your money is in a bank insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. and you have less than $250,000 there. If the bank fails, you’ll get your money back. Nearly all banks are FDIC insured. You can look for the FDIC logo at bank teller windows or on the entrance to your bank branch. Credit unions are insured by the National Credit Union Administration. If you have over $250,000 in one bank, which most people don’t, that amount is considered uninsured and experts recommend that you move the remainder of your money to a different financial institution, said Caleb Silver, editor in chief of Investopedia, a financial media website. Federal officials have been taking steps to make sure other banks aren’t impacted. “You shouldn’t be too concerned about your money if it’s in one of the bigger banks, and even in some of the regional banks and the credit unions,” Silver said. CAN I TELL IF MY BANK WILL FAIL? If you are worried about your bank closing in the near future, there are some things you can watch out for, according to Silver: — Watch the stock price of your bank. — Keep an eye on the quarterly and annual reports from your bank. — Start a Google alert for your bank in case there are news stories about it. You want to make sure you pay close attention to the way your bank is behaving, Silver said. “If they’re trying to raise money through a share offering or if they’re trying to sell more stock, they might have trouble on their balance sheet,” said Silver. SHOULD I LOOK FOR ALTERNATIVES? If you have more than $250,000 in your bank, there are a few things you can do: — Open a joint account You can protect up to $500,000 by opening a joint account with someone else, such as your spouse, said Greg McBride, chief financial analyst at Bankrate, a financial services company. “A married couple can easily protect a million dollars at the same bank by each having an individual account and together having a joint account,” McBride said. — Move to another financial institution Moving your money to other financial institutions and having up to $250,000 in each account will ensure that your money is insured by the FDIC, McBride said. — Do not withdraw cash Despite the recent uncertainty, experts don’t recommend withdrawing cash from your account. Keeping your money in financial institutions rather than in your home is safer, especially when the amount is insured. “It’s not a time to pull your money out of the bank,” Silver said. Even people with uninsured deposits usually get nearly all of their money back. “It takes time, but generally all depositors — both insured and uninsured — get their money back,” said Todd Phillips, a consultant and former attorney at the FDIC. “Uninsured depositors may have to wait some time, and may have to take haircut where they lose 10 to 15% of their savings, but it’s never zero.”

Ken Kelley joins P.S.I. as senior director

SAN ANTONIO — Ken Kelley has joined Pressure Systems International (P.S.I.), whose tire management systems for commercial trucks are sold worldwide, as senior director of product strategy and innovation. In this new role, reporting to Steve Miller, vice president of engineering, Kelley will focus on commercializing new products and bringing them to market for all P.S.I. product lines, ensuring alignment with market demand, according to a news release. He will be based in San Antonio. Kelley has an extensive background in the commercial vehicle industry, having worked for ConMet, Webb Wheel Products, Walther Engineering & Manufacturing Company, Fontaine Fifth Wheel, Marmon Highway Technologies and Dana. Over his 35-year career, he has been responsible for growing businesses, driving technology advancements and building cultures within his organizations that breed success, the news release noted. “Ken’s wide-ranging experience in the industry, especially as it relates to wheel-end technology, makes him an ideal fit for P.S.I.,” P.S.I. president Jim Sharkey said. “He knows how the industry works, knows the fleet customers well, and brings indispensable knowledge with him. We welcome him to P.S.I.” An active member of ATA’s Technology and Maintenance Council, Kelley received the 2010 Peggy Fisher Study Group Secretary Leadership Award and in 2011 was recognized with a Silver Spark Plug Award from the organization. He also served as a member of HDMA’s Board of Directors from 2019 to 2021. Kelley received a bachelor’s of science degree in industrial engineering from Auburn University.

Knight-Swift Transportation’s Dave Williams selected as TCA’s newest chairman

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) has selected Dave Williams, Knight-Swift Transportation’s senior vice president of equipment and government relations, as its 2023-24 chairman. Williams gave his acceptance speech on Tuesday, March 7, during the closing banquet at TCA’s Annual Convention in Orlando, Florida, and received a standing ovation. Williams, who resides in Glendale, Arizona with his wife, Suzi, has been with Knight-Swift for 28 years, according to a TCA news release. During his time there, he has held many positions with both national and state trucking groups. He has served as chairman and a member of the board of directors and executive committee for the Arizona Trucking Association and has chaired multiple policy committees for the TCA and the American Trucking Associations (ATA), including ATA’s Emissions Task Force and both TCA and ATA’s respective highway policy committees. “During his acceptance speech, Dave highlighted the importance of continued focus on advocating for our members in Washington, D.C.; doing more to advocate for our professional drivers; increasing the rewards for investing in trucking; focusing on the environment while pushing back on unrealistic timelines; and becoming more self-governing when it comes to Safety in our industry,” the news release stated. Williams holds a bachelor’s degree in science from Arizona State University. He and Suzi have been married for 27 years and have four children; Mallory, Ely, Gracie and Ryan. Knight-Swift Transportation, a 33-year TCA member, is the industry’s largest full truckload company, operating an extensive fleet of roughly 19,000 tractors, 58,000 trailers and employing 24,000 people. Headquartered in Phoenix, Knight-Swift provides a full complement of truckload and logistics services throughout the US, Mexico and Canada. The following individuals will assist Williams as TCA’s officers: First vice chairman Karen Smerchek — Veriha Trucking. Inc. Second vice chairman Jon Coca — Diamond Transportation System Inc. Secretary Mark Seymour — Kriska Transportation Group Treasurer John Culp — Maverick USA Inc. Vice president to ATA Ed Nagle III — Nagle Companies Immediate past chairman John Elliott — Load One LLC Officers at-large Adam Blanchard — Double Diamond Transport Amber Edmonson — Trailiner Corporation Pete Hill — Hill Brothers Transportation Inc. Joey Hogan — Covenant Transport Trevor Kurtz — Brian Kurtz Trucking LTD

Carrier Logistics adds new option for electronic data interchange service

ELMSFORD, N.Y. — Freight management software company Carrier Logistics Inc. (CLI) has partnered with SMC³ to provide CLI customers with a new managed electronic data interchange (EDI) infrastructure. “Despite what some stakeholders believe, EDI is not going away because it is still the preferred communication standard for many shippers,” CLI President Ben Wiesen said. “By partnering with SMC³ we are improving our native abilities in EDI by leveraging their expertise providing managed EDI services. Our customers can now utilize this best-in-class solution to connect with shippers and interline partners.” Wiesen continued: “Incorporating SMC³ managed EDI services under CLI’s umbrella of end-to-end solutions strengthens the value of this widely used industry standard. Now, our customers can enjoy better performing EDI connections along with the advanced capabilities we have provided them for decades.” SMC³’s EDI managed services provide instant connections for users of CLI’s FACTS freight management software. The EDI infrastructure delivers: Secure communication protocols. Faster set-up with shippers, increasing responsiveness to market needs. 24/7 monitoring. Support and responsiveness. “Driven by the need for a secure, reliable EDI solution, we’re proud to have CLI leverage our decades of expertise to offer their customers an integrated, instant option to effectively communicate across the shipment lifecycle,” SMC³’s Chief Commercial Officer Brian Thompson said. “With this expanded relationship we continue to maximize our combined industry expertise and act as an extension of our partners by providing high quality support, reliable service and offering CLI’s customers more valuable solutions.”

Women In Trucking Association’s Ellen Voie recognized by Navistar

ARLINGTON, Va. — Ellen Voie, founder of the Women In Trucking Association (WIT), has been awarded the Nettie Fowler Champion of Change Wward by Navistar Inc., the manufacturer of International brand commercial trucks and engines. The award recognizes an individual whose actions consistently show a commitment to helping women progress and grow within the industry, according to a news release. It’s named in honor of Nettie Fowler, who was married to Cyrus McCormick, the founder of the company that eventually became Navistar. “Navistar has been a long-time partner of WIT, which has allowed Navistar to witness first-hand how hard Voie has worked for the continued advancement of women in the trucking industry,” Nicole Wiggins, Navistar’s chief diversity officer and co-creator of the Nettie Fowler Award, said. “Ellen embodies everything the award stands for. During her years as president of WIT, she has demonstrated tireless dedication to the advancement of women in the trucking industry. Ellen has stayed motivated and passionate about her mission. Every milestone she has reached, she has not become complacent, yet continues to advocate for the inclusion and equity of women in the industry.” Voie founded WIT in 2007 and has been president and chief executive officer of the organization. Through her leadership, WIT has since grown to more than 8,000 members through such initiatives as the WIT Index, which is the industry barometer to benchmark and measure the percentage of women who make up critical roles in transportation, and the annual Accelerate! Conference & Expo, the news release noted. Voie also was appointed to serve on Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s Advisory Committee, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Entry-Level Driver Advisory Committee and was named a “Transportation Innovator Champion of Change” by the White House. Fowler “was a trusted advisor and partner to her husband in financial and legal matters, as well as an advocate for workers and a well-known philanthropist,” according to the news release. “Recipients of this award are true champions of women and of driving equality, who stand out because they mentor, support, and create opportunities for women.” Navistar professionals who have been previous winners of Nettie Fowler awards and also to WIT’s “Top Women to Watch” list are: Nicole Wiggins, chief diversity officer; Justina Morrison, vice president and general manager, IC Bus; and Candace Latnie, senior engineer.

JJ Trucking uses big rig to raise awareness of pancreatic cancer

MENTOR, Ohio — When Brian Lauersdorf, owner of Sheboygan, Wisconsin-based JJ Trucking, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, his daughter, Kimberly, and wife, Marilyne, knew they had to do something to help raise awareness about the disease. So they partnered with Art City Wraps for the design, production and installation of a wrap for one of their fleet’s trailers. The wrap serves as a mobile billboard “to further pancreatic cancer awareness through touring events associated with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN),” a news release stated. JJ Trucking has a fleet of 25 rigs, and a significant part of their business includes transporting cheese from Wisconsin’s major manufacturers to retail locations and cheese warehouses throughout the midwest, eastern and southern regions of the United States. “Art City Wraps designer and owner Carla Marquardt worked with Kimberly, Marilyne and the PanCan organization to design a stunning ‘Trucking for a Cure’ visual and educational message, driving home what viewers of the trailer need to know about the risks and symptoms of pancreatic cancer,” according to the news release. “Art City Wraps owner and installer Joshua Marquardt, printed the large graphic on Avery Dennison MPI 1105 Easy Apply  wrapping film. To add a finishing gloss to the printed film and protect the color pop of the design, Art City Wraps paired MPI 1105 with DOL 1360Z digital overlaminate.” Marilyne and Brian’s son, James Lauersdorf, along with Kimberly at their side, surprised Brian with the finished truck just in time for him to drive it in the nearby Plymouth Christmas parade. “The family and Plymouth community were moved by the generosity, support and commitment to the cause,” the news release stated. Sadly, Brian lost his battle with cancer earlier earlier this year. The Lauersdorf family honors Brian’s memory with the “Trucking for a Cure” semi-truck, which continues to make its rounds with PanCAN touring events.

Deutsche Post DHL Group concludes 2022 with record profits

BONN, Germany — Worldwide logistics company Deutsche Post DHL Group grew profitably in the past financial year with revenue of 94.4 billion euros, according to a news release. The Group exceeded its record from the previous year by 15.5%. “The jump in revenue resulted entirely from the international business of the DHL divisions, despite the fact that global trade and e-commerce normalized in 2022 as expected with slowing momentum in the final quarter,” the news release notes. “Consequently, shipment volumes were slightly below the all-time high of 2021. Thanks to flexible structures, the Group was nevertheless able to continue utilizing its global networks efficiently throughout the year.” The company also benefited from the increasing demand for resilient supply chains in contract logistics and, particularly in the first half of the year, from high freight rates in the forwarding business. Overall, Deutsche Post DHL Group achieved a new record with operating profit (EBIT) of 8.4 billion euros (2021: 8.0 billion euros). The key driver was the positive earnings development in the internationally operating DHL divisions, which generated EBIT of around 7.6 billion euros (2021: 6.6 billion euros). With 1.3 billion euros, EBIT of Post & Parcel Germany declined by around 500 million euros compared with the prior-year result. The Group-wide EBIT margin was 8.9% (2021: 9.8%). “We have demonstrated resilience and innovation capability in a challenging environment,” Frank Appel, CEO of Deutsche Post DHL Group, said. “Our course and strategy remain well on track. Once again, our thanks go to our employees for their extraordinary commitment in a challenging year.”  

Kyle Ingraham to lead sales, marketing at iShared Transportation

TAMPA, Fla.– Kyle Ingraham has joined iShared Transportation to lead all sales and marketing functions within the organization. A news releases notes that Ingraham has almost a decade of sales and operations leadership in the freight transportation industry. “Ingraham cut his teeth at XPO Logistics where he received a “first class education” in building a scalable and sustainable businesses through leveraging technology and industry-leading service,” the news release states. “Ingraham rose through the ranks at XPO from sales to leadership eventually building and leading one of their largest brokerage operations.” Post XPO, Ingraham was president of AFC Logistics, the sister company of AFC Transport. While at AFC, Ingraham worked closely with ownership to relocate the logistics company to Tampa and create scalable processes across the organization, according to the news release. “In the current macro-economic climate, you must have a niche where you can add value without being commoditized by the competition and that’s what we offer at iShared. Our Shared Truckload product stands alone amongst others in the industry where we’re able to eliminate claims, crossdocking and decrease transit times all while providing a fair cost that often beats out volume LTL shipping quotes,” Ingraham said. Charles Bryan, partner and special advisor at Patriot Capital, said the company is “thrilled that Kyle has joined iShared to bring his expertise in leading and growing sales within the asset light environment. We have significant revenue goals and Kyle will be instrumental in achieving those results.”

Antwan Banks joins National Motor Freight Traffic Association

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA) has announced that Antwan D. Banks has joined the organization as director of enterprise security. In his position, Banks will lead the enterprise side of cybersecurity, which, according to a news release, is “a critical role in safeguarding the trucking industry against cyber-attacks as the industry continues to digitize.” Banks will serve as the leader of NMFTA’s extensive team that works with the industry on cybersecurity and will lead all programs, outreach efforts and cyber projects, including industry-wide education initiatives, the establishment of key standards and NMFTA’s Digital Solutions Conference on Cybersecurity that is held each fall. “Antwan has an outstanding track record of success safeguarding enterprises against the threat of cyber-attacks,” NMFTA’s Executive Director Debbie Ruane Sparks said. “After nearly a decade cultivating security programs and training staff to guard against threats in the transit realm, Antwan is an ideal choice to lead this critical imperative for the trucking industry at NMFTA. Even more so, it’s an honor to add a veteran who served in Desert Storm and has proven his understanding of sacrifice and service. It aligns perfectly to our involvement with organizations like Wreaths Across America and maintains our organization’s spirit of supporting our military.” Banks, a veteran of Operation Desert Storm, most recently served as director of cybersecurity for the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority. “In the nine years he served in that position, Banks ensured that the authority would be well-protected by focusing on security tools, training, budgeting, strategic and tactical directions, intelligence programs, incident response and many other crucial priorities,” the news release noted. He also coordinated with state and federal agencies to proactively protect the Authority’s enterprise and train control networks. “Because of the essential leadership role NMFTA is taking to protect the trucking industry’s cybersecurity, I am thrilled to join the organization at this time and take the lead on enterprise security,” Banks said. “The security of the trucking industry is critically important to the entire nation, and working together we will ensure that the industry has the best tools, training, and strategies.” Prior to his tenure with the Transit Authority, Banks served as senior security engineer for Turner Broadcasting System, and was also a computer security consultant for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Centers for Disease Control.

Autonomous truck company Embark slashes staff by 70%

HOUSTON — Autonomous big rig technology company Embark is laying off 70% of its workforce and will likely be forced to shut down complexly in the coming weeks. Company co-founder Alex Rodrigues made the announcement March 3 in an e-mail to employees. “I am writing to you today with a heavy heart,” the e-mail stated. “The last 9 months have been tough for the autonomous trucking industry, and for Embark — the capital markets have turned their backs on pre-revenue companies, just as slipping manufacturer timelines have delayed the prospect of scaled commercial deployment.” Rodrigues also notes that “we have been working very hard to find a path forward in the face of these challenges, including refining our existing plan, exploring alternative markets and attempting to find a buyer for the company.” However, Rodrigues writes, “after thoroughly evaluating all alternatives, we have been unable to identify a path forward for the business in its current form.” Rodrigues told employees that over the next few weeks, he and other executives at the company will work closely with the Board of Directors to evaluate options, including selling assets, restructuring the company or shutting down completely. “Although there are many external things that we wish had gone differently, ultimately this outcome is my responsibility,” Rodrigues wrote. “In challenging times, it is the whole company’s job to be flexible and optimistic in pursuing a sometimes-changing direction — and it is the job of the CEO to navigate the challenges and make sure those directions ultimately get the team to the other side. You held up your end of that bargain, I was not able to hold up mine — for that I am profoundly sorry.” In November 2022, Embark announced that it had added four new autonomous trucking facilities in the Sunbelt states, including nine transfer point sites in cities across the southern part of the U.S. The company also made headlines in June 2022 after scoring a perfect safety record with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. And in February 2022, Embark and Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings Inc. announced the launch of the Truck Transfer Program, which was intended to give Knight-Swift and its drivers direct access to Embark’s technology. Embark will be shutting down its offices in Houston and southern California in the coming days, Rodrigues noted. “I believe that solving autonomous trucking will one day be a huge benefit to society, and while Embark may not be there to see the vision through in its current form, I hope you know that your work made a difference in pushing the industry forward,” Rodrigues wrote in his letter’s closing. “As a leader, founder, coworker, and friend, this is a day I never hoped to see, but I want to say thank you to all of you from the bottom of my heart for being on this journey with me.”

Cooke Trucking Company acquires BCJ Trucking

Mount Airy, N.C. — Two North Carolina trucking companies have joined forces. At their corporate offices in Mount Airy on March 13, officials with Cooke Trucking Company announced their purchase of BCJ Trucking Company, which is also located in Mount Airy. “The acquisition will enhance Cooke’s competitive position in the marketplace,” Cooke Trucking Company President Jay Boaz said. According to a news release, “Cooke has worked well with BCJ throughout the years and most recently has partnered on several lanes and movements. When considering the different lanes and established customer base, the acquisition further diversifies their trucking portfolio.” The news release also noted that “Cooke and BCJ will share best practices, synergies and will grow a broader footprint.” Boaz added: “Our goal is to remain customer and employee focused while continuing to deliver best in class results and service.” In business since 1984, BCJ is known as a family owned and operated trucking company, specializing in both regional transportation and coast to coast movements.