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Cherry Pie posse: Love for driving big rigs leads Kate Whiting to the truck show circuit

It’s not hard to find Kate Whiting at a truck show: Just follow the sounds of early ’90s metal rock — along with everyone else who’s being pulled magnetically in her direction. At 47, Whiting isn’t old enough to have been an authentic hair band headbanger back in the day, but the music isn’t about her, anyway. It’s the anthem for her truck, a 1973 Kenworth 900A long hood, dubbed “Cherry Pie.” The truck’s very name, as Warrant’s song of the same title attests, will “put a smile to your face … bring a tear to your eye.” “Where I think Cherry Pie stands out is she resonates with everybody,” said Whiting, owner of KW Pony Express LLC in Chetek, Wisconsin. “The women love this truck. They feel heard. I had an older gentleman one time drive back home, get his wife and bring her out. Parked right in front of me because he had to show his wife that truck. “I have little girls come out,” she continued. “One little girl took a picture with her dad holding her up; then she made her parents come back and take her picture again next to the truck. It’s like — you just never know what you’re going to spark. Kids love the truck.” Despite the truck’s cheeky name, Cherry Pie — not unlike her owner — is no girly girl. Men line up right alongside women to check her out and marvel at the horsepower under the hood. “She’s just fun. She’s got a little whimsicalness to her,” Whiting said. “Yes, she’s got that feminine touch, but she’s also got a 3408 in her, so she’s a badass. The men love that. It’s crazy how much this truck is loved across all lines.” If it’s true what people say about pets taking on their owners’ personalities — and vice versa — then surely the same can be said about trucks. No vehicle ever embodied the spunk and sass of its owner like Cherry Pie does Whiting. Raised on a dairy farm in Rice Lake, Wisconsin, Whiting says she and her sister more than held their own, from driving tractors to tending livestock. “My first vehicle was an F250 stick shift. That’s what I took my driver’s test in,” she said. “One of my first jobs was working in an auto parts store, doing deliveries. From there, I married, had kiddos, worked out west guiding elk hunting trips. (We) came back, started our own farm.” Throughout her 20s and 30s, Whiting pursued a career as a certified functional medicine health coach. She soon noticed truck drivers as an untapped market. “When guys started having trouble with the med cards and losing their ability to drive, I said, ‘I know I can help these guys!’” she said. “A couple of local trucking outfits in the area asked me to come in and help some of their guys out — blood pressure and things like that. That started me into this world. “I realized that this is a heck of a niche, and I could really help people, so I sponsored a booth at the Eau Claire (Wisconsin) truck show,” she continued. “That was exactly eight years ago this August. They invited the booth people to come in and go to dinner and sit in amongst the truckers. I knew nobody, so I sat next to this guy because he had a kid with him.” That guy was Jerry Linander — and the conversation he and Whiting shared that night turned quickly into a mentor-mentee relationship. On his recommendation, she attended a much larger show in Kason, Minnesota. There, he surprised her with an offer that would alter the course of her life. “Jerry’s the only person I knew at this show. It comes to the parade day and he up and says, ‘You want to drive in the parade?’ I’m like, ‘Well, hell yeah! I can do that!’” she said. “I’d never driven one. But yeah, that was it, that was his 2007 Kenworth L, and I was hooked.” A year after that first truck show, Whiting had earned her CDL, and within six months after that she was driving regularly for a local recycling outfit, Badger State Recovery. Two and half years later, she started driving for Linander’s outfit, Jerry Linander Specialized Transportation Inc., hauling furniture. After that, at Linander’s urging, she formed Pony Express — and she hasn’t looked back. But before all that, she came face-to-face with the truck of her dreams. “I was driving on a back road in my hometown, and I saw this truck,” Whiting said. “She was down to being a day cab at that point. They had taken the bunk off her. She was pretty moldy, out in the front yard. She’d retired out of a gravel pit hauling the crusher. “This old boy was the original owner,” she continued. “He took a lot of pride in her. She just had been sitting for like, eight years. It’s not like the trees were growing through her, but she was very sun-faded. He had redone a little bit of the interior, so she wasn’t terrible inside — but the mold was growing on the frame and stuff like that.” Whiting and her dream truck were of the same heart from the beginning. The tractor even inspired its own name, in a manner of speaking. “When I got her, I was still brand new to all this and people were like, ‘Try to buff her out and see what happens. You can’t hurt it,’” she said. “So, I started buffing on that truck, and it just shined a cherry red. It was just beautiful. My boys were teenagers at the time, so they’re going, ‘Looks like cherry pie!’ Between that and the song, that’s where the name came from.” Cherry Pie has proven to be a winner with judges. Her first show — the Mid America Trucking Show held in Louisville, Kentucky, in March of this year — earned bragging rights for Best Paint. She repeated this feat at the TopGun LargeCar Shootout in Rantoul, Illinois, along with taking second place in her class. Winning awards is nice, Whiting says, but bringing her tribe and fans together — you could call them the Cherry Pie Posse — is even more fun. “It’s so cool, because we’re just a bunch of amateurs putting her together,” Whiting said. “We worked hard. Then all you can do is just sit back and applaud and listen to the results. When you hear your name called — just knowing how we busted butt so hard to get her there — it means so much to have someone recognize her and the hard work we put into it.”

FedEx Freight’s Pinter wins TMCSuperTech Grand Championship

CLEVELAND — Phillip Pinter, a FedEx Freight technician from Romulus, Michigan, recently claimed the title of Grand Champion at the American Trucking Associations’ Technology and Maintenance Councils’(TMC) National Technicians Skills Competitions. “On behalf of ATA and TMC, I want to congratulate Phillip on being named this year’s TMCSuperTech Grand Champion,” TMC Executive Director Robert Braswell said. “As always, this competition brings out the best in our industry and Philip, and the rest of his FedEx Freight teammates rose to the occasion, providing real examples of the knowledge and skills needed to keep this industry moving.” This is the second Grand Championship for Pinter, who was joined by FedEx Freight’s Jamie Smith in claiming the team championship as part of a clean sweep of the top five by the Memphis, Tennessee-based carrier. Bonnie Greenwood claimed second place in the competition, while Eric Vos, Doug Nickles and Kelby Bentley rounded out the top five. With her second-place finish in the competition, Greenwood became the highest-placing woman in TMCSuperTech history. Elsewhere in the competition, Mario Kjuka, a student at Forsyth Technical Community College in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, claimed first place in the National Student Technician Competition, TMCFutureTech. Ferris State University’s Timothy Rose finished second, while Braedon Pollard of the Des Moines Area Community College Transportation Institute finished third. In addition to the Grand Championship, FedEx technicians also claimed the title in TMCSuperTech’s LMV competition, with Philip Barlow finishing first, Frito-Lay North America’s Kevin Malczyk placing second and FedEx Freight’s Chris Czerwinski placing third. FedEx Freight’s Cory Westfall won the TMCSuperTech Trailer Track competition, with Michael Kerfoot Jr. of Cox Automotive placing second and Traivs Cox of FedEx Freight placing third. “After a two-year pause, having a full competition with all of our tracks and hosting 140, technicians was tremendously gratifying,” Braswell said. “Congratulations not just to the winners, but to all the competitors for making it to Nationals and we look forward to seeing them all back here next year.” Full List of Station Winners Heavy Duty Track Brakes Jesse Elmore Doggett Freightliner Wheel End Phillip Pinter FedEx Freight Fifth Wheel Kelby Bentley FedEx Freight Liftgates Eric Vos FedEx Freight HVAC Charles Gleason United Parcel Service Inc. Tire & Wheel Mitchell Buelow FedEx Freight Tractor PMI Doug Nickles FedEx Freight Starting & Charging Eric Vos FedEx Freight Steering & Suspension Eric Vos FedEx Freight Heavy Duty Track – Day One Stations ASE Written Test Joseph Anderson TravelCenters of America RP Manual Nicholas Bryant FedEx Freight Wiring Diagrams Phillip Pinter FedEx Freight Lubricants & Fuels Phillip Pinter FedEx Freight Coolants & DEF Kelby Bentley FedEx Freight Hydraulics & Drivebelts Bonnie Greenwood FedEx Freight Electrical Circuits Nathan Olson NationaLease Fasteners Phillip Pinter FedEx Freight Precision Measuring Phillip Pinter FedEx Freight Service Information Michael Krause Clarke Power Services, Inc. Cybersecurity Adam Martin W. W. Williams Trailer Lighting Mitchell Buelow FedEx Freight Trailer Track Written Test Robert Aabye United Parcel Service Inc. Hydraulics & Drivebelts Sean Bring Tyson Foods Trailer Wheel End Ray Titus TravelCenters of America Precision Measuring Michael Kerfoot, Jr. Cox Automotive Mobility Trailer Fasteners Travis Cox FedEx Freight Trailer PMI Cory Westfall FedEx Freight Trailer Alignment Adam Burton Great Dane Roll-Up Doors Cory Westfall FedEx Freight Trailer Lighting Michael Kerfoot, Jr. Cox Automotive Mobility Trailer Liftgates Michael Kerfoot, Jr. Cox Automotive Mobility Central Tire Inflation Adam Burton Great Dane Trailer Electrical Corrosion Michael Kerfoot, Jr. Cox Automotive Mobility Trailer ABS Cory Westfall FedEx Freight Light and Medium Vehicles Track Written Test Philip Barlow FedEx Freight Fasteners Kevin Malczyk Frito-Lay North America Wiring Diagrams Nicolai Greco United Parcel Service Inc. RP Manuals Philip Barlow FedEx Freight Coolants & DEF Philip Barlow FedEx Freight Precision Measuring Philip Barlow FedEx Freight Electrical Circuits Kevin Malczyk Frito-Lay North America Lubricants & Fuels Sergio Chaira United Parcel Service Inc. Wheel End Chris Czerwinski FedEx Freight EVAP Systems Philip Barlow FedEx Freight Preventive Maintenance Chris Czerwinski FedEx Freight Trailer Liftgates Kevin Malczyk Frito-Lay North America Aftertreatment Nicolai Greco United Parcel Service Inc. TMCFutureTech Stations Winners Written Test Zachary Miller Forsyth Technical Community College Fasteners Max Coons WyoTech RP Manuals Avery Baldridge WyoTech Wiring Diagrams Mario Kjuka Forsyth Technical Community College Preventative Maintenance Max Coons WyoTech Electrical Circuits Max Coons WyoTech Lubricants & Fuels Zachary Miller Forsyth Technical Community College Precision Measuring Matthew Liddell WyoTech Coolants & DEF Timothy Rose Ferris State University Trailer Lighting Mario Kjuka Forsyth Technical Community College Trailer Wheel End Haley Karlberg WyoTech Aftertreatment Braedon Pollard DMACC Transportation Institute Hydraulics & Drivebelts Braedon Pollard DMACC Transportation Institute  

Canadian currency toll rates at the Blue Water Bridge adjusted beginning Oct. 1

SAGINAW, Mich. ­— In accordance with the Michigan Department of Transportation’s (MDOT) Blue Water Bridge (BWB) parity rate adjustment policy, toll rates paid in Canadian currency (CAD) for traffic heading into Canada will remain the same for cars and extra axles but will increase for trucks and buses. Based on the current average daily exchange rate, the roll rates below will be in effect through March 31, 2023: Passenger vehicle rates will remain $3.75 (CAD) per trip. Extra axles will remain $3.75 (CAD) per trip. Trucks and buses will increase to $4.25 (CAD) per trip. In 2016, MDOT announced the currency parity policy. The Canadian rate for eastbound traffic is reviewed and adjusted April 1 and Oct. 1 of each year, rounded to the nearest $0.25 and calculated based on the prior six-month average daily exchange rates between the U.S. and Canadian currencies. Travel restrictions to Canada have recently been updated by Canada Border Services Agency. The BWB is currently enrolling commercial and commuter customers in its EDGE Pass program. Commuter customers receive a discounted toll rate for non-commercial vehicles with no more than two axles. The EDGE Pass also offers commuter customers a dedicated toll lane. Both commercial and commuter account holders have 24-hour access to manage accounts online through a secure web portal. Questions regarding the EDGE Pass can be sent to [email protected]. Customers can apply by visiting www.BlueWaterBridge.us.  

Drivers invited to nominate carriers for TCA’s 15th annual Best Fleets to Drive For contest

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Nominations are now open for the Truckload Carriers Association’s (TCA) this year’s Best Fleets to Drive For contest. This is the 15th year TCA and CarriersEdge have recognized top performing carriers through the annual contest. Professional truck drivers and independent contractors are invited to formally nominate the company they work for; the nomination period ends Oct. 31. “The Best Fleets to Drive For program started fifteen years ago during the 2008 recession, surprising us with the unique ways fleets addressed the needs of their drivers during times of uncertainty,” said TCA President Jim Ward. “I look forward to seeing what new standards carriers have implemented since last year’s program to better working conditions for professional drivers, and the industry as a whole.” Fleets operating 10 or more tractor-trailers in the U.S. or Canada are eligible for nomination. Visit BestFleetsToDriveFor.com to learn about the program and how to submit a nomination. A TCA membership is not required to participate. “By nominating a fleet, a professional truck driver is formally recognizing its company’s culture, programs and working environment,” a TCA news release said. If the nominated carrier chooses to participate in the contest, its senior management will take part in a questionnaire and interview, while a selection of drivers will participate in surveys, all of which dig deeper into the company’s policies and practices. At the end of the evaluation process, the top 20 highest scoring fleets will be identified as Best Fleets to Drive For and announced at the end of January 2023. From this pool, companies will be divided into “small” and “large” carrier categories. Two overall winners will be recognized alongside fleets who will be entering the program’s Hall of Fame at the TCA Annual Convention, March 4-7, 2023, in Kissimmee, Florida. “The program evolves every season to match what is happening in the industry,” said Jane Jazrawy, CEO of CarriersEdge. “Over the past two years, we watched carriers work hard to meet the unprecedented challenges that arose during COVID. Now, we are excited to see what new ideas fleets have come up with to transition from the pandemic and meet the challenges of a fluctuating economy.” To view best practices from last year’s program as well as profiles of the overall winners, visit www.BestFleetsToDriveFor.com. Follow along with the contest on social media by searching the hashtag #BestFleets23. To view the program’s Facebook page, visit www.facebook.com/BestFleetsToDriveFor  

Highway to heaven: Rodney Crouch and pup Sammi travel the road in a rolling tribute to rock ’n’ roll

The life story of Rodney Crouch, owner and operator of Indiana-based Dangerfield Trucking, is a biography you don’t realize you need in your life until you hear it. His is a life full of highs and lows, happiness and sadness — but ultimately, one of triumph and peace. Rather than being on the “Highway to Hell,” you could say he’s on the highway to heaven. One of 11 children, Crouch was born in Munson, Indiana. While he currently lives in Indianapolis, he counts his truck as true home, which houses both him and his faithful travel partner, a lively pup named Sammi. “I’m basically married to my truck,” Crouch said with a laugh that immediately makes you feel like you’re talking with an old friend. Crouch didn’t start out in the trucking industry. It was a ride-along with his cousin Angela, a trucker, that sparked his interest in setting his sights on a career as a driver. “After that trip I went back home, where I was working two restaurant jobs and working 80 hours a week and still not being able to make ends meet,” he said. “I knew I had to make a change. I applied to trucking school and that was it.” Crouch said he most enjoys the people he gets to meet along the way, as well as the places he gets to see while driving. He started out driving for other companies, but says he wasn’t making the money he needed to support himself and his children. Eventually, he made the dive into his own business. The story of Dangerfield Trucking itself and how it got its name is the stuff of legend. Named after legendary comedian Rodney “I get no respect” Dangerfield, Crouch says the moniker was inspired by a very dear friend, Herman, who has since passed away. “He was a man who went to our church, and I remember watching him throughout the years. He was an inspiration. I saw him go from only having a pick-up truck to owning his own business,” Crouch said. “He was really close to our family and every time he saw me, he would shout out, ‘Dangerfield!’” he continued. “It became my nickname, and when he passed away … well, I had always wanted to start my own business, and when I was thinking of names, it just came to me. It was just meant to be.” The name isn’t the only part of Crouch’s business that has deep personal meaning. His truck, a 2016 Western Star, is a moving work of art that pays homage to some of his favorite musicians. He had saved money make a down payment on a different truck, but when his son had an accident falling off a cliff, those plans were quickly scrapped. Crouch said the seller understood his circumstances and even refunded the money he had paid. Then, just 30 days later, he received a call from the same seller, telling him they had found the perfect truck that required a smaller down payment — the Western Star he drives today. “When I went to pick up the truck, there were vinyl graphics already on the side from the previous owner,” Crouch said, adding that the truck had belonged to a Vietnam veteran. “It was mostly POW stuff, which I thought was so cool. Now it includes all my favorites bands. I probably have 40 bands on each side.” The graphics feature a veritable “who’s who” of musical icons, including Eddie Van Halen, Johnny Cash, Ozzy Osbourne, Jimmy Page and Pantera. A particular hero of Crouch’s is the late former guitarist of Pantera, Darrell Abbott, better known as Dimebag Darrell. In 2004, Abbott was killed onstage in Ohio while performing with the band Damageplan. During Crouch’s travels, he says he was fortunate enough to meet Abbott’s brother, Vinnie Paul, at a truck stop. He had a picture made with Paul and Chad Grey, another musician Paul played with at the time. That picture also adorns Crouch’s truck. Paul isn’t the only musical hero Crouch has gotten to know. “I went to visit Dimebag’s gravesite in Arlington, Texas” Crouch said. “I took some flowers and said hello to him.” Crouch had always wanted a tattoo of Pantera’s first album, “Cowboys From Hell,” and he says he “just got a feeling” while in Arlington that he should go to a certain tattoo parlor. The business accepted walk-ins, so Crouch showed up and told the staff what he wanted and why. “The whole place got silent, just dead silent. Everyone just turned around and looked at me. I thought I had said something wrong,” Crouch said, adding that they agreed to do the design for him. After he got his tattoo, the artist asked Crouch to step outside for a chat. He asked Crouch if he recognized another artist who was working in the Parlor. Crouch said he thought the guy looked familiar but couldn’t place him. It turns out that the artist in question was Bob Zilla, the bass player for Damageplan — who had been playing onstage with Abbott the night he was murdered. Crouch and Zilla quickly developed a friendship, one that continues to this day. In addition to several tattoos by Zilla, Crouch has some of his artwork on his truck. Of course, Crouch counts his dog, Sammi, as one of his best friends in life. She was found running around a truck stop in Indianapolis by a friend of Crouch’s. She wasn’t microchipped, and when no one claimed her, Crouch jumped at the chance to claim Sammi as his trucking buddy. “She’s been with me ever since,” he said. “I don’t know her breed, but she’s a “Nosy Nellie” and a “Dora the Explorer” to me. She has longer legs, but kind of a dachshund face. She’s crazy, and under two years old.” In addition to providing companionship, Sammi has proven to be a lifeline of sorts for Crouch. Following a near-death experience — before Sammi came into his life — Crouch realized he needed to make some big changes in his life. While grieving the loss of his beloved grandmother, Crouch had made several decisions that were not healthy either physically or mentally. When he made the choice to fight literally for his life, his world began to change for the better. Those changes are still going on to this day, he says, adding that Sammi helps him remain grounded while on the road. “She helps me learn how to play again,” Crouch said. “She helps me get out and explore. Sometimes I am so focused on work, work, work, and Sammi reminds me to be a kid. Work is something we have to do, but she teaches me to be a kid again, to have fun and be free.” In addition, Crouch says his faith in Christ and his spirituality are a core part of who he is today. After nearly losing his life, Crouch rededicated himself and was baptized. “God has definitely changed me,” Crouch said. “I’ve had wonderful God experiences where he has done things for me that I couldn’t do for myself. [That near-death experience] is what it took to wake me up.” Crouch is also considering the possibility of one day creating a church that caters to the trucking community. With most church parking lots banning truck parking, he says, there are not a lot of places those in the industry can go to worship if they wish to do so. “God is good, and he is taking care of me. I hope that I can help somebody else when I’m on the road who is struggling,” Crouch said. “That’s what I look for with connections with people on the road. How can I be of service, and how can I be a help to other drivers?” he explained. “Some days it’s all about me, and I’ve got to get out of myself, so every day I try to do something for another driver.”

Trucker relief fund receives donation on behalf of Highway Transport driver of the year

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Highway Transport driver Thomas “Tom” Frain, who earned national driver of the year honors from the National Tank Truck Carriers (NTTC), has had $2,500 donated on his behalf to a nonprofit that helps truck drivers who are out of work due to injury or illness. Frain, who was recognized earlier this year as the 2021-2022 Professional Tank Truck Driver of the Year Grand Champion, had the donation made in his name by NTTC to the St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund (SCF) as part of the award. Frain drives for Highway Transport, which is headquartered in Knoxville and operates 20-plus service centers in major chemical manufacturing zones across the United States. “The NTTC is pleased to provide this donation to the St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund on behalf of Mr. Frain,” said William Lusk, NTTC manager of education and government relations.  “It’s important for us to recognize the leaders in our community while also giving back to those who move our industry forward. Our hope is that this funding will help SCF fulfill its mission to aid drivers and their families during a difficult season.” Shannon Currier, St. Christopher Fund director of philanthropy, said: “We want to congratulate Tom for his well-deserved national recognition and thank NTTC for its support. There are so many unknowns when a family member gets sick or is suddenly out of work, and these situations leave families stressed and confused on how to proceed with everyday life. Donations allow us to further enhance the health and well-being of semi-truck drivers and their loved ones when an unexpected illness or injury occurs.” The Watkins family, owners of Highway Transport, have been longtime supporters of the St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The mission of the organization is to help over-the-road semi-truck drivers and their families who are out of work due to a recent illness or injury. SCF’s assistance may be in the form of direct payment to providers for household living expenses such as rent/mortgage, utilities, vehicle payments and insurance. The SCF also provides health and wellness programs such as diabetes prevention and smoking cessation. “It’s an honor to have a donation sent in my name to a group that gives back in such an impactful way to the trucking community,” Frain said. “St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund does an outstanding job of assisting my fellow drivers and their families during hardships.” Frain and Lusk recently participated on SCF’s “Highway to Hope” podcast to discuss careers in trucking, the Driver of the Year program and the donation to the St. Christopher Fund. The podcast is available at truckersfund.org/scf-podcasts. A leader in bulk chemical transportation, Highway Transport also earned the Responsible Care Partner of the Year Award from the American Chemistry Council in 2019, 2021 and 2022. Highway Transport also has received recognition as a “Top Company” for women by Women in Trucking. National Tank Truck Carriers is a trade association representing over 500 companies that specialize in transporting bulk or related services throughout North America. The tank truck industry generates roughly 5.1% of all truck freight revenue, but that represents 23.3% of all truck freight in terms of tonnage due to the heavy nature of the liquid bulk products handled.

Things that go bump: Unusual noises or movements could mean something needs attention

The phrase “things that go bump in the night” may sound like a title for a horror movie, or even a cheesy writing contest, but can also indicate a warning for those who drive trucks. While traveling down the road, most drivers get pretty tuned in to the sounds heard in the cab — the hum of the engine, the sound of tires on pavement, maybe air leaking through a window channel. Most truckers can instantly discern a sound or a feeling that isn’t “right” — something that’s not the norm. The same is true when the vehicle is parked at a truck stop or other location. While driving, “bumps” can indicate running over an object in the roadway. It’s always best for a driver to see objects, including roadway defects such as potholes, before hitting them, but hat can be hard to do at night, when it’s harder to identify small objects until it’s too late. Objects in the roadway can include trash, parts or cargo that have fallen from another vehicle, or just about anything. In addition, many animals are active at night and sometimes wander onto the road. Some may be simply crossing, while others are seeking warmth in the pavement or something to eat (such as road kill or even salt). Whatever their reason for being there, creatures can be hard to spot until it’s too late. If the driver is checking mirrors or gauges, the first indication of an animal or object in the road could be a “ka-thump” that is both heard and felt. Feeling bumps while driving can also indicate a mechanical problem. Parts can vibrate loose or break, falling off at the worst possible time. Belts and hoses can break, tires can sling pieces of tread, and internal components of engines and transmissions can come apart. Drivers who hear something that sounds wrong — or even just different — will want to find a safe location to pull over and check for problems. At night, finding a safe place to stop and check can be a difficult task. Road shoulders aren’t safe in the best of conditions, and they often contain debris that’s been worked outward from the travel lanes by passing vehicles — and could now cause more damage to yours. When possible, a well-lit parking lot with other people around is the safest bet. Wherever you stop, carefully observe your surroundings before getting out of the truck, and periodically after that. Don’t get so focused on finding the source of the noise that you become vulnerable to an attack. By the way, every driver should have a quality flashlight on hand. When parked at a truck stop or rest area, it can be more difficult to identify “strange” noises. The sound of an idling engine, a running auxiliary power unit (APU) or a fan for heat or air conditioning can mask a lot of sounds outside the truck. Even the sound of closing truck doors or people talking can become “normal” if you’re there long enough to get used to it. Many drivers are instantly alert when someone steps up onto their truck, even if they don’t try to get in. Someone opening the back doors on the trailer can cause enough movement in the tractor to wake the driver. Someone climbing into the trailer or jumping out can cause even more movement. It’s an unfortunate fact that some people at the truck stop sometimes do things to sabotage trucks, like pull fifth-wheel release handles or steal fuel, wheels or other objects. It pays to be alert. If you hear or feel something suspicious, always carefully check around your truck and trailer before opening any doors. Criminals can easily hide behind the tractor or directly in front, pushing or shaking the tractor hard enough for a driver inside to feel it and then ambushing the driver as he or she exits the cab to investigate. Years ago, one unfortunate driver was woken up by someone pounding on the door, who said that he hadn’t pulled in far enough to allow another tractor use the space behind. Unbeknownst to that driver, thieves had positioned boards under the inside tires of each axle. The driver only moved a few feet, but it was enough to drive onto those boards, raising the dual tires enough for thieves to remove the outside wheels and tires. That driver went to bed with an 18-wheeler and woke up with a 10-wheeler and a story to tell his safety department. If you suspect someone is lurking around your truck, it’s a good idea to call the police or truck stop security rather than confronting the person yourself. It never hurts to at least have a second set of eyes on whatever is happening. In a worst-case scenario, you could be harmed in a confrontation — and no one would know to call for help. Remember the adage that no load of freight is worth your life. Those occasional bumps and sounds will probably turn out to be harmless, but by paying close attention and checking it out when necessary, you can increase your chances of bumping the dock at your next pickup or delivery.

Pilot Co., United Through Reading partner to bring services to veterans in transportation industry

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — In honor of Truck Driver Appreciation and National Literacy Month, Pilot Co. is partnering with United Through Reading, a national non-profit serving military families, to help military veterans in the transportation industry stay connected with their families through reading. As the exclusive sponsor of United Through Reading’s Transportation Industry Veterans Outreach program, Pilot Co. is providing assistance to extend United Through Reading’s app-based program to veteran professional drivers, according to a news release. “We are so honored to serve veteran truckers as they continue to serve our country every day,” said Dr. Sally Ann Zoll, CEO of United Through Reading. “Thanks to Pilot Co., we are able to connect with these heroes to ensure that their family can maintain their reading routines even when they are on the road.” Using the United Through Reading app, veterans verified through ID.me can select a free book from their extensive collection, including eBooks, and record themselves reading a story to their family. United Through Reading will send the family a hard copy of the book or eBook, along with the recording, enabling veteran drivers to read with their children no matter the distance or time zone. “What better way is there to stay connected to your loved ones than sharing a story,” said James Haslam II, Veteran and Pilot Co. founder and chairman emeritus. “United Through Reading gives professional drivers who are veterans a platform to read and share a book with their family back home, helping relieve some of the stress of being on the road and providing a way to experience special moments together regardless of the distance.” A statement from Pilot Co. noted that “professional drivers continue to sacrifice for America, and both Pilot Co. and United Through Reading are honored to provide another service to help drivers along their journey. United Through Reading was founded on the principle that family separation is one of the most difficult parts of being in the military, and there are more than one million military veterans that have taken their skills and continued their service behind the wheel as professional truck drivers. They often face similar challenges of separation while on the road as professional drivers, and Pilot Company and United Through Reading are hoping to help bridge that gap by giving them the ability to share a book with their children.” To learn more about United Through Reading and sign up as a veteran professional driver for the United Through Reading app program, visit www.unitedthroughreading.org.  

SeaPort Manatee shows appreciation to drivers with free lunches, goody bags, trucking summit

PALMETTO, Fla. — With free lunches, gift-filled goody bags and a first-time trucking summit, SeaPort Manatee celebrated its seventh annual Trucker Appreciation Day, honoring and interacting with many of the hundreds of professional drivers who keep the supply chain flowing each day through the Florida Gulf Coast trade gateway. Culminating National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, SeaPort Manatee’s Sept. 16 observance began with an interactive forum in partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), followed by the distribution of complementary prepared lunches and gift bags to drivers as they approached the port’s main entrance. “SeaPort Manatee is consistently grateful for the dedication of the highway heroes who dedicatedly provide a vital link in safely, dependably moving essential goods, especially throughout challenging times,” said Carlos Buqueras, SeaPort Manatee’s executive director. “We are honored to have this opportunity to show our thankfulness and to this year augment the giveaways with a forum furnishing updates to drivers while gathering their valued input.” Trucker Appreciation Day sponsors included Ash Grove Cement Co., Carver Maritime Manatee, Federal Marine Terminals Inc., Intermodal Tank Transport Inc., Kinder Morgan Port Manatee Terminal LLC, LOGISTEC USA Inc., TransMontaigne Terminals LLC and World Direct Shipping. Other businessess and agencies that donated giveaway items — from calendars and koozies to caps and sunglasses — include the 75 Chrome Shop, Drivers Health Clinic, the International Used Truck Center of Tampa, Southport Truck Group, TA Travel Centers of America and Truckers Against Trafficking. The donated items — along with safety-orange T-shirts emblazoned with “SeaPort Manatee Appreciates Me!” — were distributed in event-branded bags by port staff members, who were joined by Amanda Tyner, freight and seaport coordinator for FDOT. “We enjoyed having the opportunity to show our appreciation, with the SeaPort Manatee staff, for the drivers who keep the freight moving,” Tyner said. “Thank you for allowing FDOT to be a part of such an amazing day.”  

Ryder brings ‘Truckers Against Trafficking’ exhibit to South Florida

MIAMI — The Freedom Drivers Project, a national mobile exhibit on the realities of human trafficking, is coming to Ryder’s Miami Headquarters as part of a program for Ryder employees. Ryder will host the Freedom Drivers Project, a national mobile exhibit by Truckers Against Trafficking, at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 28. The exhibit is designed to build awareness ofthe realities of human trafficking and the measures to combat it. Human trafficking is modern-day slavery, and it is a $150 billion industry across the world with more than 50 million people trafficked, according to a press relase. The state of Florida is listed as having the third-highest reported cases of human trafficking in the U.S. The Freedom Drivers Project has traveled more than 15,000 miles to educate members of the public to recognize and report human trafficking. The exhibit depicts the nature of sex trafficking and provides steps anyone can take to help victims. The tractor-trailer exhibit includes artifacts from trafficking cases, portraits of real Truckers Against Trafficking, and action steps anyone can take immediately after walking out of the exhibit to help prevent human trafficking.

Intermodal trucking can offer options for drivers who want to stay closer to home

Truck drivers who are looking for more local and regional work than their current carrier provides often turn to the intermodal segment of trucking for answers. Many times drivers who are trying out their skills as owner-operators also find a home in intermodal. But what is intermodal trucking, and what are some of the advantages and disadvantages of driving intermodal? As the name implies, “intermodal” means that freight-filled containers can be transported by multiple modes of transportation. Containers often arrive in the U.S. by ship, where they can be unloaded and placed on rail cars for movement across the country. Once they are delivered to a rail facility, they are placed on chassis and transported by truck to their final destination. Some containers are trucked directly from the seaport, too. Since non-trucking modes of transport are often used for longer distances, trucks usually handle the pickup and delivery functions. Some of these are local in nature, with drivers moving several containers in a day’s work. Other moves are more regional, with most containers going to receivers that are within a day’s drive of the port. Depending on the carrier and the availability of work, intermodal drivers often get home multiple times during the week, sometimes daily. For owner-operators, the equipment requirements for intermodal work can be a little easier to meet than for other segments of the industry. For example, trucks used for intermodal are often older than their over-the-road counterparts. On the West Coast, particularly in California, however, strict emissions-reduction laws have been implemented, all but forcing older equipment out of the business. Another advantage of intermodal is that many loads are “drop-and-hook” on at least one end of the trip. Since the owners of the chassis generally charge carriers by the day for using them, trailer pools aren’t maintained at most customer locations, so live loading and unloading is common. At the railyard or port, however, a chassis with attached container is often dropped in a specific area or in a numbered space so it can be easily found. When picking up, drivers often find that these containers have been offloaded and placed on a chassis — ready to hook up and go. All the driver needs is a space number. Unfortunately, it isn’t always that easy. Sometimes drivers hook up to an empty chassis and then drive to a designated area where a crane or large forklift loads a container onto the chassis. Or, a driver with a loaded container may drive to an area where the box can be removed and either stacked for later use or immediately loaded onto a ship or rail car. The act of moving the container only takes a few moments, but wait times are often long when personnel can’t locate a container or the container has to be loaded on train or ship in a certain order. Ports and rail yards can be 24/7 operations or can have specific, sometimes limited, hours. Some truckers wait for hours to get into the facility. Some facilities are run very efficiently and keep wait time as short as possible; others, not so much. Maintenance of chassis can be a problem, too. Chassis are often owned by the shipping line and rented to the carriers who pull them. Carriers are often reluctant to repair a chassis they don’t own, especially when reimbursement from the chassis owner takes a long time — or doesn’t happen at all. Ports and rail yards often deal with maintenance by inspecting trucks that are on their way out of the facility. There is often a long line for inspection and another wait if repairs are need, so some drivers would rather take their chances if they haven’t seen a visible problem with the chassis. When drivers have to hook up to a chassis first, they may have difficulty finding one in good repair. Drivers often would rather deliver the chassis to the facility with a flat tire or a mechanical issue than take the time to get it fixed on the road, especially if the distance isn’t very far. Drivers can also be unkind to one another when it comes to chassis. It’s not uncommon to find a chassis that’s missing lights, lug nuts or any other item a driver might have needed to make another chassis roadworthy. Other disadvantages of intermodal trucking include lower compensation than longer-distance forms of trucking. Since the U.S. imports much more than it exports, it can be difficult to find a load returning to the port for shipment, and deadheading is often a possibility. Additionally, since chassis are usually owned by shipping lines, they can’t be used to haul containers belonging to another shipping line unless the two companies have a cooperation agreement. For example, a driver may return a chassis owned by Maersk to the port and need to pick up a different chassis to haul the next container that’s owned by another company. Even when owned by the same company, containers can be different sizes. For example, a 40-foot container won’t fit on a chassis made for a 20-foot container. Another drawback to intermodal is that drivers often don’t know anything about the cargo, its weight or how it was loaded. Paperwork, such as bills of lading, are often created in another country, where people speak a different language and use different measurement methods — all of which may not translate perfectly. Often, cargo information such as weights is more of an estimation than reality. Containers are sealed, so drivers usually can’t get a look at how cargo is loaded, making it difficult to predict if the load is top-heavy or leans to one side. Intermodal trucking can be rewarding, providing steady income and home time for many drivers, but there are also unique challenges. Drivers who are considering taking on the job would be wise to ask plenty of questions about potential miles and income. Speaking with experienced drivers is a must, since they can provide accurate information about carriers, customers and port and rail facilities. It isn’t uncommon for a driver to have worked for several carriers in the area, and he or she should be able to provide information about each.

Resonea, Challenger Motor Freight announce truckers’ sleep study partnership

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Resonea and Challenger Motor Freight are partnering for a sleep initiative study, including education and voluntary sleep apnea screening of commercial truck drivers using Resonea’s DROWZLE smartphone app. “We’re delighted to join with the talented staff of Resonea to help bring innovative sleep education and testing to the motor carrier industry,” said Jim Peeples, president and CEO of Challenger Motor Freight. According to a news release, Resonea solutions help improve motor carrier reputations and document their commitment to safety through comprehensive programs of sleep education, screening/testing/treatment, compliance monitoring and reporting. “At the center of our system is an FDA-cleared smartphone app that provides drivers an easy way to assess the risk of sleep apnea with an overnight breathing analysis,” said Resonea Chief Medical Officer Dr. Karen Underwood. The news release touts that the screening with DROWZLE is “more private, convenient, comfortable and enables anytime/anywhere testing with confidential results delivered by email in the morning.” “Driver satisfaction and safety remain top priorities for Challenger and are one of the major reasons we have been frequently selected one of the top fleets to drive for by the Truckload Carriers Association,” said Steve Newton, Challenger’s director of safety.

Used Truck Association to honor military veterans

STOCKBRIDGE, Ga. — The Used Truck Association (UTA) will honor military veterans at its upcoming annual convention Nov. 9-12 at the Gaylord National Resort, Harbor, Maryland, on the banks of the Potomac River. The yearly event is the largest used commercial truck meeting of the year, attracting hundreds of attendees from across North America. The convention is full of networking events, instructive workshops and informational and educational presentations. “One of the highlights of each UTA Convention is when we honor our nation’s veterans, particularly UTA members who have served in the military,” said Michelle Ober, UTA convention chair. “We take great pride in honoring the sacrifices, courage, and patriotism of the men and women who have served in the military and those who have fought valiantly to defeat tyranny and protect the liberties we hold most dear. All of us at the UTA believe this is an important and significant action for us to do each year.” For information on the UTA Convention, click here.  

Rainbow rider: Hirschbach driver Shelle Lichti promotes equality, love for all

Years ago, Shelle Lichti ran for her safety — and found support in the trucking industry. Dubbed the “Rainbow Rider,” Lichti, who now drives for Hirschbach Motor Lines, has been trucking since the early 1990s. She says the freedom she found on the road proved to be her saving grace from both a turbulent past and the stigma of hiding her own sexuality. Lichti grew up in an orphanage, where she says she faced many challenges, living through assault, harassment, bullying and homophobia. She escaped by finding refuge in the trucking industry. “I thrived, and found that this was something that came relatively easy for me,” Lichti said. “I found that I had an affinity for it, and loved the power, the freedom. I loved that I was in control, especially when I was younger, because so much was beyond my control and having some semblance of that was so important,” she said. “It’s helped create who I am today, and I am very grateful to the industry as a whole. I believe that without it, I would have died, either by my own hand or someone else’s.” Looking back, Lichti says, the paths she took in the past didn’t hold time for encouragement or comfort. Behind the wheel, however, she realized she had a choice: She could use her past as a crutch, or she could move forward. She chose to move forward. As a mentor to other truck drivers, Lichti seeks to help women as much as possible, advocating for their rights as drivers and human beings through her 501c3 nonprofit, LGBT Truckers. When a friend belonging to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community “unalived themselves,” as Lichti describes it, she decided to take action by creating a safe, supportive community for truck drivers. The group now has amassed more than 6,000 followers on Facebook. The group’s followers include both those who belonging to the LGBT community and allies who are employed as drivers, mechanics, office staff and many others. Lichti herself says she delayed coming out as a lesbian for fear of the possible aftermath of bullying and depression. “I wanted people to accept me on my work and not who I slept with, because we are more than our sexuality. It’s such a small part of us, but some people want to make it so big and that’s so sad,” she said. “Why would you be threatened by somebody who is born to be attracted to someone else?” The LGBT Trucker group, which started in 2008 as an 800-conference line that anyone could call, at any time and talk to someone, branched out into other areas as the needs of the group grew. One of those “branches” is the “Highway Hangout,” a series of web-based karaoke sessions during which drivers took turns singing and embracing each other’s voices. In addition, the group offers resources such as help finding LGBT-friendly trucking schools, along with housing and food security. The positive response to the group’s efforts inspired Lichti to ask Hirschbach for support with a colorful Pride-theme truck wrap to show support for her group on the road. The truck was quickly dubbed the “Rainbow Rider.” The most recent wrap, which adorns a Freightliner and features a “Love Is Love” design, was completed and re-debuted in November of 2020. The truck’s interior is something Lichti likes to update regularly. Pink was a staple in her truck’s interior for a while, but she is now updating the decor with different colors, new bedding and an organized kitchenette. She says she has an agreement with Hirschbach to eventually buy the Rainbow Rider; she plans to then donate the truck to the LGBT Truckers organization. “Hirschbach supports every hard-working driver regardless of race, creed, religion, gender identity or sexual orientation,” said Jillaynne Pinchuk, Hirschbach’s chief culture officer. “We support positive messages that foster understanding and acceptance. When Shelle approached us with her idea of the Rainbow Rider to support LGBTQ drivers, we were all for it!” The travel-sized decor inside the truck is what Lichti is used to because she spends most of her days on the road. She says the independence offered by her chosen career in trucking addicted her to the lifestyle of roaming and exploring where she wished with an RV. When she’s not on the road, she resides at campsites all over the U.S. She loves being out in the sun, listening to birds or relaxing with music, books or her crafts, free from worry and moving on with confidence. Acceptance and empathy are strong traits Lichti possesses. Ever since she started driving nearly 30 years ago, she has worked to transform her truck into a home, not only for herself but also for the precious four-legged creatures she’s rescued over the road. During the surge of COVID-19 in March 2020, she recognized an opportunity for fellow truckers to communicate worldwide by sharing photos of their furbabies and posting available dogs or cats. The Facebook group Trucking Furbabies was born out of that desire. “We wanted to create a positive, happy environment where drivers could share photos of their furbabies,” she said. “You can’t stay in a ticked-off mood when you see critters.” Currently, she has two cats and one Chihuahua, Zulu, who had been abandoned at a truck stop in Laredo, Texas. She says she can tell Zulu was previously owned by a truck driver because when the brakes pop, Zulu wags his tail, eager to hop up the steps and into the cab. However, the rabbit-furred Japanese bobtail cats, Neela and Wobbles, were borderline feral when she rescued them. Now they’re properly trained and sweetly nuzzle up to her. The animals she rescues stay with her until they find their “furever” homes — and in some cases like the bobtails, they require more tenderness, love and care. “There are so many animals that are just waiting and wanting their forever home and they get turned away, or put down, for so many stupid reasons, like high (separation) anxiety animals,” she said. “Place them with a trucker. We’re with our animals 24/7.” Neela, nicknamed “Neela-Beela,” has 13 toes on her front paws. Gaining her trust and getting her used to the truck was a challenge, especially because she flinched from sudden movements. Lichti’s sister helped Neela recover — and, in some ways, helped Lichti to recover as well. “Animals are so helpful to drivers, because we need somebody to talk to and something to take care of,” she said. “It’s less lonely. We all know that animals have the health benefits of lowering blood pressure by getting out and exercising and the psychological effects that can help with depression in trucking … I wouldn’t know what to do without one.” For now, Lichti says she isn’t looking to add any new critters to her truck, and she’s working to find “furever” homes for the two cats. She says she’ll likely rescue more animals in need afterward. She estimates she’s rescued 300 animals over the years, and the perfect life she imagines — besides driving — is having an animal by her side.

Fleet Advantage donates $10K to Truckers Final Mile

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Fleet Advantage announced Sept. 15 a donation of $10,000 through its Kids Around The Corner Foundation to Truckers Final Mile as a way to show its ongoing appreciation during this year’s National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. “Truck drivers are so important to our economy and the health of the overall nation, and inflation has brought about even more challenges for them to do their jobs each day,” said Elizabeth Gomez, marketing manager for Fleet Advantage and chairperson for the Kids Around the Corner foundation. “It’s important to keep goods flowing, but it’s just as important to offer care, assistance and the means for truck drivers’ families to remain close to one another. We are proud to donate to such a powerful organization whose mission serves these families when they need help the most.” The Truckers Final Mile mission is to reunite North American truck drivers and their families in times of crisis, loss of life, debilitating injury or serious illness. Since the program’s inception, the organization has helped 31 families with children following the death of a parent while out on the road. Many of these children suddenly find themselves in a single-parent household where changes and sacrifices are needed. Fleet Advantage, through its Kids Around the Corner foundation, is an official sponsor of the program. The company’s current contribution will help secure a total of 20 college education savings accounts through the Truckers Final Mile’s annual Sleigh Bells and Santa Christmas campaign. Last year, Fleet Advantage’s contribution helped secure 10 college education savings accounts. “The loss of a parent is a grief-filled, traumatic experience and it permanently alters children of any age, nothing is ever the same again,” said Robert Palm, founder and CEO of Truckers Final Mile. “Here again is Fleet Advantage Kids Around the Corner Foundation, doubling last year’s effort so that a minimum of 20 of these children will receive a 529 Account. The words ‘thank you’ will never be enough for what this will mean to them as they grow.”  

Goodyear accepting nominations for annual Highway Hero Award

AKRON, Ohio — In celebration of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. announced on Sept. 15 the return of its annual Highway Hero Award, a program that celebrates professional truck drivers who act selflessly for the good of others on the highways across North America. From now through Dec. 31, the Goodyear Highway Hero Award program will recognize professional truck drivers through a call for online story submissions, asking members of the trucking community to nominate a driver who has demonstrated an extraordinary act of courage on the road. “As routes take truck drivers to every corner of North America, many go above and beyond their regular duties, even serving as first responders to incidents that occur on our roads and highways,” said Gary Medalis, director of product development and marketing at Goodyear. “The Goodyear Highway Hero Award program is designed to express our gratitude for these hardworking truck drivers and to celebrate their incredible acts of bravery.” To enter the Goodyear Highway Hero Award program, visit www.goodyeartrucktires.com/newsroom/highway-heroes and use the nomination form to tell the story of a courageous truck driver who is deserving of the honor. Goodyear will determine an approved list of nominees from which a panel of judges will select the winner and two finalists. Goodyear will announce the award winner in early 2023, honoring the driver with a cash prize, a Goodyear prize package and travel and hotel expense for a trip to Orlando for a winner announcement at the Technology & Maintenance Council Annual Meeting & Transportation Technology Exhibition in March 2023. Two runners up will also receive a cash prize and Goodyear prize packages. Earlier this year, Goodyear recognized Gerald “Andy” Wright — a truck driver from Jacksonville, Illinois who rescued and helped save the lives of motorists trapped in a burning vehicle — as its 37th annual Highway Hero Award winner. Other past winners include a truck driver who saved a child from drowning in a submerged car and a driver who pulled a man from a vehicle before it was destroyed by an oncoming train. “Receiving the 2020-2021 Highway Hero Award was incredibly humbling and a true honor, but the interstate is filled with truck drivers who go above and beyond for others in amazing ways every day,” Wright said. “With so many incredible stories of bravery yet to be told, I can’t wait to learn more about all of this year’s nominees.” Eligible nominees for the 38th annual Highway Hero Award must be a full-time truck driver, reside in the U.S. or Canada and the individual’s truck at the time of the incident must feature 12 wheels or more. Moreover, the act of courage must have occurred between Jan. 1, 2022, and Dec. 31, 2022. To learn more about the Highway Hero Award, view exclusive content and to read the full terms and conditions, click here.

CH Robinson celebrating truck drivers during Truck Driver Appreciation Week

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn.– Global logistics company C.H. Robinson is honoring truck drivers who go above and beyond to deliver the goods the world depends on, despite supply chain challenges. The thank you campaign, which recognizes the role truck drivers play in delivering everything from life-saving medical supplies to everyday essentials, is part of Truck Driver Appreciation Week 2022, which runs through Sept. 17. The two-week long celebration includes $100,000 in giveaways directly to truck drivers in recognition of the 100,000 miles on average they travel every year, a news release stated. It also encourages people everywhere to share their own thank you notes on social media. For every thank you message posted using #ThanksForEverythingLiterally on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram, the C.H. Robinson Foundation will donate $5.00 — up to $25,000 — to the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, which helps truck drivers in need. C.H. Robinson will also be giving away $1,000 10 times a day, each business day, from Sept. 11-23, to carriers who enter by booking and picking up C.H. Robinson loads. “We appreciate truck drivers every day of the year, and Truck Driver Appreciation Week especially gives us another opportunity to take a step back, reflect and truly recognize the people who help make our world go ‘round,” Mac Pinkerton, president of North American Surface Transportation for C.H. Robinson said. “As one of the largest logistics companies in the world, we get to see first-hand how truck drivers continue to step up to deliver all of life’s essentials that we often take for granted. We are so grateful for their dedication and thrilled we get the opportunity to say, ‘thanks for everything’ in a big way.” Pat Nolan, vice president of North American Surface Transportation at C.H. Robinson, said truck drivers are “inextricably linked not only to our business but also to our everyday needs and there is no better time than Truck Driver Appreciation Week to say thank you for all they do. At C.H. Robinson, we look forward to continuing to support carriers in every way that we can. From introducing new ways for carriers to gain access to more freight than any other platform can offer, to innovative technology which makes it easier and more efficient for them to book loads and get paid quickly, we are hyper-focused on finding ways to consistently improve the carrier experience and support the important work they do.” For more information, click here.

Advantage Truck Group celebrates 10th anniversary of Haulin’ 4 Hunger

SHREWSBURY, Mass. — Advantage Truck Group has marked the 10-year anniversary of Haulin’ 4 Hunger, the company’s signature food donation program that helps provide meals to people facing hunger in communities near ATG locations throughout New England. Founded in 2012 with a single donation of 200 holiday meals near ATG headquarters in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, ATG has expanded the program to food pantry organizations in more communities and increased its impact with quarterly donations of non-perishable food to help meet ongoing need, according to a news release. This year ATG is increasing donations to provide thousands of non-perishable foods each quarter to hunger-relief organizations near ATG locations and over 4,000 fresh meals this holiday season to food pantry organizations in Central Massachusetts. Haulin’ 4 Hunger will reach over 30,000 meals donated to community food pantry organizations across three states, the news release stated. “As we mark the 10-year anniversary of Haulin’ 4 Hunger, our commitment to reducing food insecurity in our communities remains more important than ever,” Kevin G. Holmes, president and CEO of ATG, said. “We are grateful for the continued support that our employees, customers and business partners have for this program.” This quarter, ATG will hold events at each of its locations to celebrate Haulin’ 4 Hunger and recognize the contributions and dedication of its employees. “At a time when food prices are rising alongside inflation, every donation is making a difference to local pantries and the people they serve,” the news release stated. “With support from employees and business partners, including Dennis K. Burke, G. Lopes Construction, SelecTrucks of New England, Worcester Railers Hockey Club and UniBank, Haulin’ 4 Hunger is helping bring food to the people who need it most.” Learn more about Haulin’ 4 Hunger and visit ATG on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Truckstop honors truckers, breaks Guinness World Record

BOISE, Idaho — In honor of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (Sept. 11-17), Truckstop announced Monday that it has set a Guinness World Records title for the longest toy truck sentence. Using more than 2,000 big-rig toy trucks, Truckstop team members gathered at their office in Boise, Idaho to celebrate this this year’s driver appreciation week. The longest toy truck sentence reads “Truck drivers are the Rockstars of the Road!” as a nod to the current Truckstop campaign. National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is an annual event during which the nation honors hardworking truck drivers across the country. “I was excited to join the team at Truckstop for their record-breaking Guiness World Records title attempt,” said Michael Empric, official adjudicator for Guinness World Records. “Seeing 2,098 toy trucks spelling out a sentence recognizing truck drivers for their crucial work was officially amazing!” “Truck drivers are the backbone of America. We wanted to do something big to show how much we appreciate them, and there isn’t anything much bigger than setting a Guinness World Records title,” said Kendra Tucker, ECO of Truckstop. “We appreciate the long hours and sacrifices truck drivers make. They truly are the rockstars of the road.” The Guinness World Records title for the largest toy truck sentence — officially the “longest toy car sentence” — stretched more than 65 feet wide and was almost 14 feet tall, and was created through the combined efforts of more than 30 Truckstop employees. The toy trucks will be donated to Western Idaho Community Action Partnership, a nonprofit that serves several counties in Idaho. Their programs serve community members of all ages, and the toy trucks will be donated to local children in need ahead of and during the holiday season. For more information about how Truckstop is celebrating National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, click here.

Meeting the challenge: Tom Frain earns title of 2021-22 Professional Tank Truck Driver of the Year Grand Champion

Most drivers of tank equipment will tell you it’s different from other forms of trucking. In addition to unique driving characteristics — like top-heavy loads and dealing with surging and sloshing cargo — there various cargos have unique characteristics. Often, loads require special handling and paperwork, as well as trailer washouts between loads. It can be a daunting task just to keep up with it all. That’s one reason winning the National Tank Truck Carriers’ (NTTC) William J. Usher Professional Tank Truck Driver of the Year Grand Champion award for 2021-2022 means so much to Thomas “Tom” Frain, even if the initial announcement was a surprise. “I just stood there, thinking, ‘Why did he call my name?’” Frain recalled. “I had met the eight finalists and I thought there was no way. The fellas that I met, their years of service, how they carried themselves.” Frain drives for Knoxville, Tennessee-based Highway Transport, running out of the Knoxville terminal about 10 miles from the company’s headquarters. He and Carol, his wife of 26 years and partner of 35, moved to Knoxville from their home in Upstate New York. Frain says the couple discovered the area because of his in-laws, who lived in Florida but frequently vacationed near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and the Frains enjoyed traveling to meet them and spend time together. “I remember sitting on the front porch for Thanksgiving in shorts and a T-shirt, thinking, ‘If we’re gonna move, we need to do it now while the children are young,’” Frain said. He has driven with Highway Transport for seven years, joining the company after a long career of hauling for the food service industry. “Even as a child, I was always fascinated by equipment,” he said. “My mother would joke, ‘All anyone has to do to babysit Tom is sit him in front of a tractor.’” The late ’80s, however, weren’t the best of economic times in Upstate New York as industries shut down or moved away. One of Frain’s friends had an uncle who owned a small trucking company — and that quickly drew his interest. “I tried college; that didn’t work,” said Frain said, adding that he was too young at the time to get his CDL. “I worked full-time during the day, and I’d go up there [the trucking company] and fuel the trucks from around the yard for free.” After a year — and when Frain had turned 21 — the company provided a truck for him to test in and gave him a ride to the CDL testing center. With new CDL in hand, Frain hired on at Maines Paper and Food Service. “They were team runs with two drivers,” he said. “Due to my lack of experience, that’s the only opportunity I had there. They put me with a mentor and I rode with him for two years.” Frain stayed with the food service industry for years, until a friend went to work for Highway Transport and called him. “We spoke over the years about how the job was just breaking my body down, and he said I needed to check this out,” Frain said. “I interviewed and fell in love with the company, the people there. It was just a different environment for me.” Frain spoke about the process of learning to drive with tank trailers. “There was a level of arrogance, because I was looking at (other drivers with) 23, 24 years of experience,” he recalled. “So, one day I got with my trainer, Greg, hooked up a trailer and gave it a tug test. “That thing slapped us!” he continued, describing the first time he felt the effects of a liquid cargo surge. The memory of those early days pulling tanks inspired Frain to help new drivers at Highway Transport. He now trains new drivers at the company, helping them to improve their driving skills and teaching them the details of tank trailers and liquid cargos. He also works with the company’s safety department to film instructional videos for other drivers. He has accumulated more than 2 million safe miles of driving and was selected as a Road Team Captain for the Tennessee Trucking Foundation, an arm of the Tennessee Trucking Association. Frain was nominated for the NTTC award by Highway Transport Director of Safety and Quality, Rick Lusby. “It started with basically a paper application,” Frain said. “They wanted years of experience, safe driving miles, community service and leadership roles that you may have taken. It was, if you will, a driving resume.” Frain has plenty of experience in community service, working with the Boy Scouts, the American Youth Soccer Organization, Little League USA Softball and other organizations. Finalists for the award were flown to Washington, D.C., where they appeared before a panel for questioning and were evaluated in front of a camera to assess their communications skills. The panel consisted of five members, including Road Team Captains from the American Trucking Associations, a representative from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), Great West Insurance and the NTTC. The winner of the award was announced April 25 at the NTTC’s Annual Conference and Exhibits in San Diego. As the grand champion, Frain will serve as a spokesperson for the NTTC and Highway Transport at industry events. When he’s not driving, mentoring other drivers or working in the community, Frain enjoys camping, kayaking, fishing and hiking. He and Carol have two children who live nearby. “My daughter just graduated from Maryville College with a degree in elementary education. She’ll be working as a fourth-grade teacher. We’re super excited for her,” he said. “My son Thomas just graduated from high school and he’ll be attending the University of Tennessee School of Architecture. “Carol and I, we started with nothing — and we still have most of it left,” he continued with a chuckle. For Frain, the mission is clear. “I want to represent myself and my industry with pride,” he said with a smile. Frain will be driving a brand new, specially decaled Mack Anthem tractor, presented by Highway Transport, and the company gets to show off the spectacular trophy won by Frain for the next year. Whether he’s in uniform behind the wheel, in a classroom or in a suit and tie at a speaking engagement, Tom Frain represents the best of the trucking industry.