STO September 2009 Newsletter by Jess Horton

[The DISPATCH] SEPTEMBER 2009

News and Notes from SOUTHWEST TOW OPERATORS

Results from the Legislative Session What you need to know

TDLR Clarifies Safety Vest Rule |

New Course Offers At-Home Convenience |

Regional Election Results

>> Table of Contents

SouthWest Tow Operators 2665 Villa Creek Dr., Suite # 105 Dallas, TX 75234 (972) 247-9454 (972) 247-1605 FAX 866-320-9300 TOLL FREE www.swtowop.org Email: mail@swtowop.org Articles by:

Dan Messina President dan@swautotow.com

Departments

Message from the President

Message from the Executive Director

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Jess Horton Executive Director jess.horton@swtowop.org Joann Messina

In the News Training Update Legislative Update Association News

Association Treasurer joann@swautotow.com Tommy Anderson Training Director tom@swtowop.org

Breakaway Events

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>> Message from the President

Getting Back to Basics

ow that the legislative session is over, it’s time to get back to basics. Over the next three months, we will be scheduling meetings in each of the regions to get back to talking with the towers in Texas again. It’s so easy to get sidetracked with all the projects we have going on. Our office staff will be working even harder than normal to get all the last-minute towers trained. I’m sure all of you have been receiving mail from all kinds of educators offering classes at discounts. Remember, Southwest Tow Operators has been there for you since all of this regulation started two years ago. You need to tell everyone to get their training through us, not one of these other companies that knows nothing about towing. Our goal for the next six months will be to get more towers involved with towing issues across the state. I just got back from New Mexico and meeting with their association members. I had the opportunity to see what problems they’ve faced, and how they’ve handled them. That way, if we ever experience the same problem, we will have some answers. There are a lot of smart people in the towing industry, and I want to start drawing on that knowledge to help towers in Texas. I think we will set up some roundtable discussions across the state and sit around and tell stories that each of us has experienced, and then gain from those experiences. If nothing else, we can share a cold beer and have some laughs. I also think that over the next few months, we will set up more meetings with TDLR and get clarification on some of the new laws that were passed this session. It doesn’t look like things are going to slow down, but together, we can get through anything.

Dan Messina Executive Board President Southwest Tow Operators

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>> Message from the Executive Director

Working for You By Jess Horton

ello STO members! I hope that you are pleased with the new newsletter format. We have worked very hard to bring you the latest and greatest in Texas towing and storage issues in a more professional and vibrant look and feel. I would like to hear back from you on what your thoughts are and how we may be able to improve even more. We are in the final stages of finishing our program that will start a wide focus of publicity all over Texas (and beyond, if needed). This publicity program will include public service announcements and targeted audio and visual messages on towing industry topics such as professionalism and emergency vehicle applications of the Texas tow operator. Again, if you have any ideas or feel that you can assist in this campaign, please contact me anytime. This first half of 2009 has been very busy, with no signs of slowing down. We put most of our attention on the 2009 Texas Legislature session to deal with pending bills that will have long-lasting effects on our industries. It was worth the exhaustion it created. With so many bills that would impact the towing and storage industries, many did not make it, and those that did passed with only minimal impact. With so many against our stance on less-mandated regulation and our emphasis on self-regulation, it was an uphill battle the whole way, and that’s putting it mildly. We were able to make a dramatic show of strength at our first Towers Legislative Day this year and had many legislators talking about us in ways that we have not heard in a long time, plus we built some very important relationships that will only make our cause extremely strong and our combined voices heard more loudly. Also, we have been very busy dealing with TDLR enforcement and in-

terpretation issues. This has been a very important step in turning the attention from those who are trying their best to be compliant to those who are not trying at all. Those towers and VSFs out there that continually charge outrageous charges and place trucks on the street that are not legal or registered only hurt the industry, and that is the type of negative attention that reaches the legislators who write more-regulatory bills. Until we get this right, all the hard-working and honest towing companies and VSFs will suffer. Elections in all regions are happening now. Some regions have already finished the election cycle and are now setting up regular meetings on a monthly or bimonthly cycle. We had a very strong response to the nomination process, and I would like to thank all those who have participated in this important process of our association. Each region will now be represented by a five-person Region Board, with one Region Director and four Region Representatives. The Region Director will now have a vote on the Executive Board, allowing every region to be represented in the manner that the founders of Southwest Tow Operators intended. The training department has been very busy this year with Continuing Education and Professional Development (IM) training all over the state. With so many options out there — many from companies that have no prior involvement in the towing industry — it is important that you take your training through an association that is there to support you and not just to line its pockets. Every penny of every training course that we deliver to every area in Texas goes back to programs that will provide you with greatly reduced costs for future training as well as benefits — some of which are at no cost

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to you, such as the accidental death and dismemberment insurance policy. Many of you may have noticed the new changes to the website. If you have not, I insist you visit our website at www. swtowop.org. This gives an exciting fresh new look and room for growth, seeing that our old website, although it served its purpose, was too small for the size of our organization now. It has some new features, many of which are membersonly, the latest news from the industry and TDLR, and even a game or two. We are very pleased with the final look of the site and think you will be as well. Over the past few months, I have also been busy with many local issues. There are many cities and counties that are not up to date on their ordinances to coexist with TDLR and the state laws. We have been training them as well as providing valuable information and resources to make this a reality. If you have a problem in your area, we need for you to contact us so that we can assist you. The best way to attack these problems is to get to them exactly when they pop up. Waiting until a city council or county commissioners board has already voted on something is too late! The sooner we know, the more that CAN be done. I will be all over the state in the next few months holding regional meetings. We will be covering many issues from TDLR, new laws and regulations, elections, local issues, and more. With the new laws coming into play, we will go over a broad range of the particular timelines and assist in getting everyone up to date on what they need to do to be in compliance with them. I look forward to seeing all of you there in your region. As always, I am available whenever you need me. Call or e-mail me anytime!

Jess Horton Executive Director Southwest Tow Operators

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>> IN the news

TDLR Clarifies Safety Vest Rule High-visibility safety apparel: TDLR rules in T.A.C. Sections 86.1001(b) (2) and 86.1001(c) refer to ANSI/ISEA 207-2006 as the standard for high-visibility safety apparel. The standard for high-visibility safety apparel, including the safety vest, is designed to meet Class 3 standards for safety apparel. The Towing and Storage Advisory Board voted to clarify the rules by The standard for high-visibility safety deleting reference to apparel, including the ANSI/ISEA and the safety vest, is insert Class 3. The in- designed to meet 3 standards sertion of “Class 3” Class for safety apparel. clarifies that Class 3 safety apparel has always been the intent behind the adopted rules. Therefore, high-visibility safety apparel meeting the Class 3 standard complies with the requirements of T.A.C. Sections 86.1001(b)(2) and 86.1001(c). Illegal Practices and Charges: the practice of driving a vehicle rather than loading or hooking up the vehicle to a tow truck is not towing. The statute and TDLR rules define a tow as the moving of one vehicle by another vehicle. The practice of driving a vehicle away is not towing and under some circumstances could be considered theft. Charges for “driving away” vehicles should not be included on fee schedules and charges for this service may not be legally collected by a vehicle storage facility. Fee schedules that include this type of service may be rejected by the department and not accepted for filing.

STO board members present an award to Steve Calitri of American Towman for the magazine’s service to the towing industry.

STO Presents Award to American Towman Founder

outhwest Tow Operators recently presented an award for the 30plus years that American Towman has served the towing industry nationwide. The award highlighted the founder of American Towman, Steve Calitri, and the statute of the American Towman Monument. STO felt that some recognition was much deserved for placing positive information and educational services throughout these many decades and wanted to commemorate the national magazine with a beautifully crafted display of appreciation. The award was presented during the International Tow Expo in Houston on May 1.

Beware Inexperienced Training Companies

here are many training companies offering the required tow training out there. The ones that are not affiliated with towing associations DO NOT understand the requirements! They are sending out postcards soliciting tow operators, but they don’t know if you need the four-hour course or the eight-hour course! Many tow operators are contacting us because they have taken the WRONG course. CT and PP drivers need the four-hour course; IM drivers need the eight-hour course (one-time only!). It will be even more confusing next year for the IM drivers renewing for the second time. Support your association and get your training with us! We understand the requirements and will help you get the right training at the right time! Also, the money you spend with us supports the towing industry. It helps pay for a full-time staff that is here every day working for you and answering your calls. It helps pay for our industry lobbyist and attorneys. Tell your fellow towers that they need to train with an association that supports the industry! Online training is available NOW for the four-hour CE course requirements with TDLR. Take it in the comfort of your home at your convenience! Learn more on page 9.

Note from Jess Horton: A Class 3 Vest is any vest that meets the high-visibility requirements and must have sleeves, short or long.

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>> inThe news

Abilene City Council Denies Emergency Tow Operators Right To Park At Homes

ver the past couple of months, southwest tow Operators has been working with members in abilene, texas. there was a widely publicized problem that was created by a complaint that a tow truck was illegally parked in a residential area. the current ordinance does not allow commercial vehicles 1 ton and above to be parked in the residential areas of the city unless they are “emergency vehicles.” By state law, a tow truck is not an emergency vehicle. When contactedby local members about the prob lem, Jess Horton, executive director of southwest tow Operators, immediately contacted city officials and started discussing possible solutions to the problem. Horton traveled to abilene on two different occasions to meet with the local towers and with city officials. after meeting with police and the city, a proposal was submitted to the planning and Zoning Committee that heard the arguments to grant a special exemp -

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tion for emergency tow trucks. the p&Z Committee voted overwhelmingly 6-0 to recommend this exemption. Under the proposed ordinance, one such vehicle per company would be allowed. this would make it possible for towers to respond to all accidents and law enforcement incidents promptly and effectively. Without the ability to park at home, wrecker service representatives have said their drivers are forced to drive their personal vehicles to a company lot to switch to a tow truck, resulting in the loss of key minutes. “We told them [the City of abilene] that this was a safety issue 100 percent,” Horton says. “not once did we ever express any self-interest on this issue; it has always been about the safety of the public, and the faster we respond, the faster the towers can diminish further injuries and damages.” On aug. 13, the abilene City Council listened to the credible arguments of the towers. Horton also explained the importance of response times and the implications of secondary accidents. the faster the response time, the faster incident and accident scenes are cleared, thus resulting in fewer secondary accidents. Fewer secondary accidents mean fewer injuries and property damages. In addition, Horton called the current ordinance antiquated, noting that tow trucks being produced now are 1.5 to 2.5 tons rather than the 1 ton currently permitted. a group of local citizens came for ward in a group effort to disallow this exemption. they cited that towers were loud, rude, and dangerous. One citizen claimed that she was worried about tow trucks running over children! another citizen claimed that tow trucks were turning on their lights on purpose. some of the city council members even stated that they felt tow truck operators were “bad neighbors”! One city council member, Councilman anthony Williams, agreed that a change was needed and recognized the necessity to protect the general public on the roadways. mayor norm archibald and council members stormy Higgins, robert Briley, Joe spano, Laura moore, and shane price

t o w E rs h E lping t o w E rs

voted against the change and the recommendation of the P&Z Committee. Horton said that he was disappointed by the attitude of the city council and was disturbed by the opinions expressed by them. “The professional tow operators of Abilene are not ‘bad neighbors’; they are simply neighbors that work very hard for the greater safety of

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“Not once did we ever express any self-interest on this issue; it has always been about the safety of the public, and the faster we respond, the faster the towers can diminish further injuries and damages.”

the public and provide a service that is irreplaceable,” Horton says. “What will that city council member say when it is their family member stuck in that car that is dependent on a tow truck to arrive to assist in their extraction? We will not give up; neither will the towers of Abilene. They deserve the professional respect that they work hard for.” Horton said that they will be working on other solutions and have already started working with the Abilene Police to support future requests for changes to the ordinances. He also said that he does not blame the city council for having the attitude they have with all the negative publicity that the towing industry receives. He added that the towing industry must takes steps to portray the positive importance and lifesaving skills that professional towers perform every day and that it is a main priority of Southwest Tow Operators to spark new programs that will send the right message to the general public and to city and state officials.

New Mexico Towing Association Formed Dan Messina, STO Executive Board president, has been back and forth between New Mexico and Texas for months going to several meetings with local towers there. He has successfully spearheaded a campaign to launch an association for tow operators and storage facilities. Until now, the towers of New Mexico have been under the New Mexico Trucking Association. The new members have now officially met on their own and have opted for the name of New Mexico Tow Operators. Many have expressed their gratitude to Dan and the STO staff for helping them get the association off the ground and running. STO will assist NMTO with a benefit partnership program as well as valuable information on the ins and outs of running a successful association. STO wishes the newly formed New Mexico Tow Operators good luck and congratulates the towers of New Mexico for standing on their own.

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>> Training UPDATE

Training with STO keeps your hard-earned dollars going toward causes you care about.

More Than 3,000 Towers Trained by STO By Tommy Anderson

outhwest Tow Operators has been working hard to provide the required IM and CE training to the towers of Texas. We have scheduled classes every weekend throughout the state. Due to the high demand, we are constantly adding more classes to ensure everyone trains by their renewal deadline and have now started having classes during the week as well. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to thank all of our trainers for their hard work and dedication to train-

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ing the towers of this industry. We are proud to say that Southwest Tow Operators has trained well over 3,000 towers. Our trainers are the best out there. For those who still require training, please check our website at www. swtowop.org for additional courses scheduled in your area. We are constantly updating our website with any additions to our training schedule. Southwest Tow Operators has developed an online training course for those requiring the four-hour CE training. If you have not taken your four-hour CE course yet, this is the one to take. We feel this is the best out there.

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I would also like to thank all the towers who have trained with Southwest Tow Operators. We have had a great response by the towers who have taken the training. Most had a positive attitude and the willingness to help their fellow tower. By train-

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Our training department is constantly working on developing new programs for the towing industry, and we always want to hear from you on what you would like to see us develop for you.

ing with us, your hard-earned dollars help this association return the favor. Your training dollars have helped this association to grow, to implement new training programs, and to help fight legislative matters that pertain to our industry. A special thank-you goes to our associate members and towing companies who, week after week, have donated their time, equipment, and/or facilities in order for us to provide training to the towers in Texas. Coker Wrecker Sales, Tex-Star Equipment, DFW Wrecker Sales, Texas Wrecker Sales, and Santex Equipment are just a few. Our training department is constantly working on developing new programs for the towing industry, and we always want to hear from you on what you would like to see us develop for you. You are the driving force behind the towing and storage industry and know exactly what is truly needed. Please feel free to call me and share your thoughts. I’m looking forward to hearing from you. n

New Course Offers At-Home Convenience

STO is proud to introduce the TDLR-required four-hour CE course for CT and PP licensed tow operators through our new Internet-based online version! You can now take your Continuing Education training in the privacy of your home, office, or even on your wireless laptop — anywhere, anytime. Now it is even easier to meet that deadline to renew your license. And better yet, you can stop the training for any reason and then return later to finish. Let’s say you are at home and are 20 minutes into it, and then you get a call to tow a vehicle; you can stop it, go to work, then come back later and continue the training. You can do this an unlimited number of times until your training is complete. The new course is offered at a low rate of $65 and is available at www.swtowop.org.

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>> Legislative UPDATE

STO treasurer Joann Messina visited the capitol numerous times during the 81st Legislature session to lobby on behalf of the industry.

81st Legislative Session Over By Joann Messina

he 81st Legislature session is finally over and not a minute too soon! It was a sometimes difficult and disappointing session, but we did make some good headway. Jess and I wore out several pairs of shoes and at least two sets of tires trekking back and forth to Austin and throughout the capitol! On March 26, we held our first-ever Towers Legislative Day. More than 75 tow operators attended this inaugural event, all proudly wearing bright blue shirts

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with STO logos. After our guest speakers addressed the attending towers, everyone fanned out throughout the capitol, visiting legislators and handing out squeezable tow trucks with our name and phone number on them. Prior to this, we made several political

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contributions to key legislators from our PAC fund. These activities were very valuable for our industry. The legislators now know that there is an active, aggressive towing association fighting for its members. Move Over Law (HB 3702): Our move-over bill failed to get out of committee this session. It was sponsored by Rep. Jim Jackson. This was a huge disappointment. We did not have any support for it from TTSA, as they were supporting the “bicycle bill” (SB488), which ended up getting vetoed by Gov. Perry. The bicycle bill did include tow truck operators (not tow trucks) and offered us very little protection, as it would only give us 3 to 6 feet from passing vehicles and it would only punish those who actually hit someone. We will redouble our efforts next session to get this important bill passed.

er’s license from that state, you were not eligible for a Texas Tow Operator license. Now our tow operators who work on the Texas borders can obtain a license. 6 Training License: There is now a provision for a “training license.” TDLR will issue rules under which a new tow operator can obtain a training license for up to 90 days. This will allow him

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nal background. This will allow towing companies to train a new driver for a few weeks before he has to get certified. This will give you some time to evaluate drivers in training before money is spent on certification. 6 IM Training: The IM training required is now described as “a professional development course relating to incident management towing” and not

The legislators now know that there is an active, aggressive towing association fighting for its members.

to begin training under the supervision of a licensed tow operator prior to obtaining certification. This will probably not be available to anyone with a crimi-

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just “towing.” Hopefully this will allow us to modify the required eight-hour IM training to take out the portions having to do with basic towing 101 and

Texas Tow Act Clean-Up Bill (SB 702): This bill passed with the cleanup items we requested. Jess and I had several meetings with TDLR and legislators to resolve some issues from the Texas Tow Act passed in the 80th session. These items will be effective Sept. 1, 2009: 6Dual License Available:

You can now obtain a dual license for VSF and Tow Operator. We are hoping that eventually the combined license will be less expensive than the two separate ones. I don’t think that will be the case initially, but at least you will only have one license to keep up with instead of two. 6Out-of-State Licenses:

You can now obtain a Texas Tow Operator’s license if you hold an out-of-state driver’s license. Before, if you lived in New Mexico or Oklahoma and held a driv-

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>> Legislative UPDATE

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Scheduled and random drug testing is required, but only RANDOM alcohol testing is required. (This is not effective until Jan. 1, 2010.)

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make it more meaningful. 6 Alcohol Testing: Alcohol testing is now required in addition to drug testing. We DID NOT support this portion of the clean-up bill. We tried to get this removed but were not successful. We did, however, get the â&#x20AC;&#x153;scheduled alcohol testsâ&#x20AC;? removed. TDLR will write rules that address this. Scheduled and random drug testing is required, but only RANDOM alcohol testing is required. (This is not effective until Jan. 1, 2010.)

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LEFT: More than 75 tow operators attended the first-ever Towers Legislative Day at the capitol in March.

bizarre and hopefully wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t affect too many of us. It requires the tow operator to contact a property owner prior to entering a rural property to tow a vehicle when ordered by law enforcement. Example: A vehicle runs off the road and through a fence in a rural area. Law enforcement calls a tow company to remove the vehicle. It is now the tow companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s responsibility to notify the

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>> Legislative UPDATE

ABOVE: The 81st Texas legislative session ran from January to June. The 82nd session begins in 2011.

property owner prior to removing the vehicle. Law enforcement does have to provide the contact information to the tow company. Keep this in mind if you tow in rural areas. Watch out — the bill doesn’t define “rural,” so if in doubt, notify the property owner.

HB 2571 (Hinojosa/ Gonzales Bill): This bill will have the most impact on Texas towers. It was filed due to rampant overcharging in the Valley. Even though the City of McAllen is legally allowed to regulate private prop-

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erty tow rates, they refused to do so and local tow companies took advantage of this situation. In addition to charging outrageous rates, they also towed from properties without signs, drove tow trucks WHILE INTOXICATED, and violated many other existing laws. And

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even though TDLR has put the worst ones out of business, the good guys will have to live with MORE regulation because of their actions. We worked very hard with Sen. Hinojosa and Rep. Gonzales on this bill. Initially, there were many items included that would have caused great expense and harm to our industry. While we are not happy with the final version, the initial bills started out much, much worse. We worked with both legislators and their staffs to craft good bills. At the end, we had two bills (the Senate version and the House version) that contained several differences. One bill version improved a great deal with our

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Cities cannot allow a private property tow fee in excess of the state maximum.

work, while the other bill had grown much worse. Because of this, we testified AGAINST this in the final hearing. Once again, we were alone in our dissent. (We did have the Texas Municipal League testify against it also, but only because of one provision.) So here is the bottom line we face beginning Sept. 1, 2009: 6 Maximum Tow Rates: The state will cap private property tow rates. This provision wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be effective until Sept. 1, 2010, to allow time for TDLR to determine what these maximum(s) should be. Initially, parties involved wanted to cap all non-consent tow rates. We worked very hard to keep IM tows out of the bill. Beware: If abuses continue with IM tow rates in unregulated areas, they will be next to have a statewide rate cap. This provision applies all over Texas, even in areas that are already regulated. Cities cannot allow a private property tow fee in ex-

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>> Legislative UPDATE

cess of the state maximum. 6 Definition of Consent and NonConsent Tows: Bill writers attempted

to clarify what consent and non-consent tows are, but we are afraid that the changes haven’t helped. We will wait and see how the rules pan out from TDLR. They will have to clarify this section of the law with input from the advisory board. 6 “Parking Facility Authorized Agent”: For each private property

that you tow from, you will now need to get the name of a “parking facility authorized agent” (PFAA). A PFAA is an employee or agent of a parking facility owner with the authority to: n Authorize the removal of a

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In the meantime, we recommend that you read these bills carefully and call us with any questions or input.

vehicle from the parking facility on behalf of the parking facility owner; and n Accept service on behalf of the parking facility owner of a notice of a probable cause hearing 6 Violations: The fine for violations went from $300 to $1,000, plus three times the amount of the fees assessed

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for towing and storage. Criminal penalties were added and violations can become Class B misdemeanors ( jail time!). We did get a provision that the offense has to be proven on trial to be knowingly or intentionally committed to become a Class B misdemeanor. 6 Judgments: If you lose a tow hearing and fail to pay the judgment, you

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can LOSE YOUR TOW LICENSE! 6 Tow Hearing Jurisdiction: Tow hearing jurisdiction will change Sept. 1, 2009. It is going back to the way it was years ago: Tow hearings will be held in the jurisdiction where the vehicle was TOWED FROM. They will no longer be held in the jurisdiction where the vehicle is stored. You need to start preparing now for this change. If you use a computer system to print your receipts and notifications, you will need to modify the program to select the correct JP information to print out. Make sure you are ready to provide the correct JP information to vehicle owners come Sept. 1. 6 More Signs: An additional sign will be required at your VSF that reads: “This vehicle storage facility must accept payment by an electronic check, credit card, or debit card for any fee or charge associated with delivery or storage of a vehicle.” Also, if you don’t accept a credit card or debit card for payment, you are not allowed to charge the vehicle owner for towing or storage. 6 Booting Law (SB 2153): Requires anyone who boots vehicles to obtain a “Booting License” from TDLR. Booters must also follow most of the same laws private property towers fall under. This bill also adds a booting representative to the “Towing, Storage, and Booting” advisory board. This is just a quick summary of the major bills that passed that will affect tow operators. We have hired the Herrera Law Firm to do a comprehensive review and legal analysis of the new laws and will publish the results to our members when it is finished. In the meantime, we recommend that you read these bills carefully and call us with any questions or input. Also, the TDLR Towing & Storage Advisory Board and the Association will be working on input for the new rules. n

If you have any input or suggestions on the rules, please call anytime or fax to (972) 247-1605. You may also send them in writing directly to Jess at jess.horton@swtowop.org.

Six Action Steps Although we all would like to rest, it is time now to start working on the next legislative session. It will start in January 2011, which is just around the corner. There is a lot we can do as individual tow operators. Don’t just sit back and let them keep piling more and more regulation on us. Here is what you can do NOW: Visit your senators and representatives in their local offices. They all have local offices. You don’t have to travel to Austin to talk to them. Make an appointment to go in and introduce yourself. Tell them about the towing industry and how much regulation costs us. Tell them about the existing regulations. Many don’t know how highly regulated we already are. Invite them to events happening in your area or statewide that you will be attending. They have to start seeing the positive and professional side of the towing industry. Help them get elected. Find out when and where their

fundraisers are and attend. It takes a lot of money to run for office. Many of these senators and representatives make huge personal sacrifices to serve Texas. Help them out if you are able. If you can’t help financially, donate some time during their campaign. Representatives have to run every two years! They are constantly campaigning. Send us your ideas for legislative changes for next session. When you visit your senator or representative, send us an e-mail about who you visited and how it went. Make sure you attend our next Towers Legislative Day in March 2011 and bring all your family and competitors. We need numbers to be effective! We need all of you to be part of the process. Thanks to all of you who went to Austin with us or called with input and encouragement! n

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>> Association News

Region 4 Meeting Breaks Record

n July 19, STO held a Region 4 meeting at the American Legion lodge in Edinburg, Texas. The attendance set a new record with more than 180 people attending! That shows the strong trend in the amount of participation that the towing and VSF industry is pulling in. More towers are getting involved and demand an ear to listen to their concerns and suggestions. TDLR was one of the speakers at the meeting and answered several questions from the audience. “It was a very powerful meeting that sent a loud and clear message to everyone, including us at STO, that this is not about just a few people making all the decisions for the rest of the towing industry anymore. Towers demand to be more involved with their livelihoods and are tired of the constant barrage of new regulation year after year,” says Jess Horton, executive director for STO. “Region 4 is to be looked upon as a template on how they are making

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a difference in their region. They are standing up and people [cities and law enforcement] are taking notice.” This was the first of many regional meetings to be held all over the state of Texas this summer and fall. With the election of the new positions of Regional Director and Regional Representatives to take over the control and run of the seven different regions that make up STO, everything seems to be in perfect alignment to make an interesting and positive evolutionary

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Letter of Appreciation LEFT: More than 180 people attended a July meeting for Region 4, which has decided to meet monthly.

The following letter was written to Ramiro Sanchez, second vice president of the STO Executive Board. Dear Ramiro, Thank you for inviting me to the STO meeting in Edinburg, Texas, on July 19, 2009. Your presentation on the bills passed and proposed in the legislature was very well received by the many members in attendance, an attendance that was filled to capacity and spoke “volumes”! The information in your speech and the additional reference material you provided were both fascinating and very informative. All this put together made for a room filled with eager tow operators willing to comply with all the new laws and TDLR rules and regulations. Our only regret was that we did not have more time to visit with all the members, new and old. Overall you showed true leadership within a crowd of people you seem to always attract. As for Jennifer Coronado, she displayed true professionalism and made an AWESOME host; she was very attentive to everyone in directing them and answering all their questions. Keep up the good work and thank you again for taking the time to arrange such a successful meeting. Please advise us of any future meetings because we would love to continue being a part of this great organization. Sincerely, Mary James Agent Alexander Insurance Agency

change that the industry seems to be leaning toward. STO wants to thank all who participated in setting this meeting and all of the meetings to be held this year. The new regional meeting will be held no less frequently than every two months, and some, such as Region 4, will meet on a monthly basis, in different areas of the region each time. Ramiro Sanchez of Region 4 and Executive Board second vice president, called for other regions to follow suit: “I would like to issue a challenge to the other six regions of STO to meet or beat this level of participation. If we can get close to this much involvement in each region, our industry will be one to be listened to and respected.” n

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>> ASSOCIATION NEWS 6 RegIon RePReSentatIVe #4 –

Jose martinez (Martinez Wrecker Service) – Laredo, TX Others Nominated or Write-Ins Receiving Votes: Daniel Garcia (Expressway Towing Service) Region 5: 6 RegIon dIReCtoR –

mark denson (Overhaulin Pro) – Houston, TX 6 RegIon RePReSentatIVe #1 –

Pete Johnson (Johnson Wrecker Service) – Huntsville, TX 6 RegIon RePReSentatIVe #2 –

John Payette (Superior Wrecker Service) – Houston, TX 6 RegIon RePReSentatIVe #3 –

Regional Election Results (So far)

ere are the official regional election results that have been finalized by the stO election Committee. all of the following results are based on ballots received from members in good standing voting on members in their region that are members in good standing:

Alvin Krenek (Krenek’s Towing) – Brenham, TX 6 RegIon RePReSentatIVe #4 –

Aaron Gebert (Hook ’Em Haulin) – Magnolia, TX Region 6: results still out Region 7: 6 RegIon dIReCtoR –

Ben West (West Towing Service) – Texarkana, TX 6 RegIon RePReSentatIVe #1 –

scott noe (Crow Towing) – Tyler, TX 6 RegIon RePReSentatIVe #2 –

Region 1: results still out

Others Nominated or Write-Ins Receiving Votes: Clay Jackson (Jackson Motors), James Thompson (Best Transport), Don Creamer (Central Towing), David Escalera (Mission Towing)

Region 2: results still out Region 3 (very tight race): 6 RegIon dIReCtoR – Les Juliano (Assured Towing, Inc.) – San Marcos, TX 6 RegIon RePReSentatIVe #1 –

ron Burnes (Towing Experts) – Kingsland, TX 6 RegIon RePReSentatIVe #2 –

6 RegIon RePReSentatIVe #3 –

6 RegIon dIReCtoR –

martin Cantu (Cantu Auto Repair and Wrecker Service) – Port Isabel, TX david escalera (Mission Towing) – Mission, TX 6 RegIon RePReSentatIVe #2 –

Bobby new (Southside Wrecker) – Austin, TX 6 RegIon RePReSentatIVe #4 –

Jason Banis (Banis Towing Service) Wrecker Service) – San Antonio, TX

6 RegIon RePReSentatIVe #3 –

sherri terry (Sunshine Auto Parts) – Gun Barrel, TX 6 RegIon RePReSentatIVe #4 –

Region 4:

6 RegIon RePReSentatIVe #1 –

Jackie milhim (Big A Towing) – Austin, TX

deborah davis (Tommy’s Towing and Recovery) – Wills Point, TX

Jennifer Coronado (Coronado Wrecking) – Donna, TX 6 RegIon RePReSentatIVe #3 –

diana Lopez (BG Wrecker Service) – Corpus Christi, TX

Ron McHam (Foshee Wrecker Service) – Lindale, TX

Others Nominated or Write-Ins Receiving Votes: Vaunda Warnasch (Liberty Services), Ronald McHam (Foshee Wrecker Service), Cody Leifer (Crow Towing) these are the final results so far. all persons listed in the “Othersnominated or Write-Ins receiving Votes” are listed in the or der of votes received. n

You can view all Region Boards at

www.swtowop.org

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Spotlight on … Ken Hooper, o’Barwrecker Service name: Ken Hooper, foreman at O’Bar Wrecker service in abilene, texas years in towing industry: 11 and a half o’Bar’s history: the locally owned towing company is the largest and oldest in abilene. they have nine employees and have been in business for 41 years. Best part of the job: “I like the driving and the challenge of the accidents. every wreck you go to is different; you have to figure out what to do, and the main thing is to be safe.” advice for towing newcomers: “Don’t think you know everything. I learn something new every time I go to a wreck. If you think you know everything, then you’re a dangerous person — the main thing is to be safe and watch what you’re doing.” Benefits of Sto: “We had an incident in abilene where we couldn’t park in front of houses anymore. I called southwest tow Operators and they tried to help us out — they came to all of our city meetings and really did have an input.” n

www .s wt o w op . or g

DXib 9`^_Xd @ejliXeZ\ =`eXeZ`Xc J\im`Z\j Specializing in commercial transportation to include: n Commercial Auto n General and Garage Liability n Automobile Service & Repair n Health Insurance for both individuals and Company n Life Insurance for individuals or small groups!

Please call today!

(281) 292-4900

Mark Bigham | President Mark Bigham Insurance & Financial Services 322 Spring Hill Drive, Ste A600 The Woodlands, TX 77386 (281) 292-4900 | fax (281) 292-4937 mark@markbighaminsurance.com

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>> BREAKAWAY CLASSIFIEDS South Texas Towing Company Seeking Medium duty Truck to Purchase or Take over Payments. all Valley Wide towing in Los Fresnos, tX is looking for an opportunity to buy a medium Duty wrecker in the 16 to 21 ton Capacity range. If you have a truck for sale, or you are looking for someone to take over payments on an existing truck, please contact ramiro sanchez at 956-456-9205 or email at allvalleytowing@sbcglobal.net.

years experience in the towing industry, basic knowledge of Vehicle storage Facilities and dispatching, current and valid Im tow Operators License and a current and valid VsF Operators License. salary will start at $50,000 base pay per year plus multiple performance bonuses, 401K, health benefits, and many more benefits. please email resume to lesjuliano@y ahoo.com or call directly at (512) 801-3884. serious only apply!

Seeking all Types of Heavy duty Type of Vehicles for Training.

General Manager wanted for San antonio Towing firm. assured towing Inc. is seeking to expand someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s career in thetowing industry by offering a Full-time salaried position for General manager for our san antonio market and city contract there. the right candidate must have great communication skills, 10+

southwest tow Operators is seeking any type of heavy duty vehicles such as tankers, tractors, box trucks, busses, garbage trucks, cement mixers, sweepers, cranes, or any other pr actical equipment that could be used for education and demons tration purpos es for our new H eavy Duty training

program. Donation of items gladly accepted, but will pa y for vehicles in good condition. V ehicles mus t be able to roll on own and have all tires in place. please contact tommy anderson at (972) 247-9454 or email at tom@swtowop.org if you something that would fit this request.

Ready to Expand our outside Sales Team. are you looking to make good money? We are here to show you that that is possible in the towing Industry. We are a family operated company that considers our employees and staff our extended family. With that being said we want our team to look and be professional at all times. We have the right tool for the job, and work hard to be leaders with-in our industry. We are open, and reward for new ideas that will better our service(s) or business. please contact for more details: www. overhaulinpro.com, (832) 237-2tOW

If you are a member of Southwest Tow operators, you may post a classified ad on whatever your needs may be, whether it is selling, buying, wanting, freebies, recruiting, etc.

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www .s wt o w op . or g

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Southwest Tow Operators 2665 Villa Creek Dr. Suite # 105 Dallas, TX 75234

TOWERS HELPING TOWERS!

Several Ways To Contact STO: Phone 972-247-9454 Toll Free 866-320-9300 Fax 972-247-1605 mail@swtowop.org

www.swtowop.org >> EVENTS

sePTeMber

Sunday

Monday

tueSday

Wedne Sday

thuRSday

FRIday

SatuRday

26 STO Houston

CE Training IM Training

Grand Opening

CE & IM Training

Sept. 19: CE Training — dallas 8 a.m.–12 p.m. Southwest Tow operators 2665 Villa Creek dr., Suite #105 dallas, TX 75234

Sept. 19: IM Training — dallas 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Southwest Tow operators 2665 Villa Creek dr., Suite #105 dallas, TX 75234

Sept. 19: CE Training — El Paso 8 a.m.–5 p.m. El Paso, TX

Sept. 19: IM Training — Greenville 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Greenville, TX

Sept. 19: IM Training — El Paso 8 a.m.–5 p.m. El Paso, TX

Sept. 20: CE Training — Temple 8 a.m.–12 p.m. Temple, TX

Sept. 20: IM Training — Temple 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Temple, TX Sept. 26: CE Training — dallas 8 a.m.–12 p.m. Southwest Tow operators 2665 Villa Creek dr., Suite #105 dallas, TX 75234 Sept. 26: 10:00 AM

Sept. 26: IM Training — dallas 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Southwest Tow operators 2665 Villa Creek dr., Suite #105 dallas, TX 75234 Sept. 26: IM Training — austin 8 a.m.–5 p.m. South Side wrecker 8200 S. Congress ave. austin, TX 78745

STO Houston Grand Opening 19333 Highway 59 North Humble, Texas 77338

Visit our website at www.swtowop.org for more event listings!

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