On Ramp
Welcome to the first edition of Breaker 1-9
Long before satellite communications, cellular phones, email, texting, FaceTime, and even pagers, truck drivers communicated via three primary methods: in person, by phone (often a payphone), and CB Radio. With its handheld microphone and coiled cord, the CB radio became a standard image associated with truck drivers and was prominently featured in songs and movies about the industry throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
Invented in the 1940s and rising in popularity in the 1970s, the CB radio was the only way truck drivers could communicate with someone not riding in the truck. While early CB radios had only 23 channels, by 1977, there were 40 channels, which included Channel 19. Though officially designated for the general public, it is widely recognized as the trucker channel.
The title of our publication, “Breaker 1-9,” not only echoes the first few words of “Convoy,” the 1976 song by C.W. McCall that is often credited with fueling the CB craze, but it is also our way of asking for the opportunity to share our story. The CB radio was used to share all kinds of information: road conditions and hazards, the location of law enforcement and whether the scales were open or closed, directions, and other local information on where to get fuel, eat, and park. Of course, many stories were also told over the CB, and some were probably even true.
While the days of the CB radio have faded a bit, this publication serves as a platform and outlet for us to recognize and share the stories of our people, company, and industry. It plays a crucial role in preserving the history of the CB radio era, aiming to educate and entertain, connecting the past, present, and future between team members, customers, vendors, and communities.
Thanks for the break, and enjoy your copy of Breaker 1-9.
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CONTENTS
3 News
4 Safety Tips
5 Home Twenty: Rick Daveluy
6 Going the Extra Mile Toward a T1D Cure
7 Feature Article: See the Good, Be the Good
9 Don Hummer Trucking and IMTA Celebrate Trucking; Isaac and McLeod Partnership Elevates Driver Experience
10 Recognition: Ultimate Driver Challenge
11 2024 Event Schedule
NEWS
DRIVING EXCELLENCE:
Don Hummer Trucking Recognized as a FourKites
Premier Carrier
Don Hummer Trucking continues to stand out in the fast-evolving logistics and transportation landscape. The company’s dedication to staying ahead of the industry curve is reflected in its outstanding services and continuous technological investments to enhance the customer experience.
A key factor in Don Hummer Trucking’s success lies in its strategic technological advancements. By embracing innovation, the company has prioritized making it
easier for customers to conduct business with them. Through significant investments in cutting-edge technology, Don Hummer Trucking has streamlined its processes, offering customers a seamless and efficient experience from start to finish.
Highlights from the 2024 Food Shippers of America Conference
Earlier this year, the Food Shippers of America (FSA) Conference in Orlando brought together over 1,300 professionals, including representatives from Don Hummer Trucking: Andrew Hummer, VP of Operations; Mark Greenseth, Business Development Manager; and Elvir Begic, Business Development Executive. Hosted at the Signia by Hilton Bonnet Creek Resort, the event was a dynamic gathering focused on “Driving Resilience through Talent and Technology” in the food shipping industry.
Key moments included Cal Ripken Jr.’s opening keynote on perseverance, in-depth panels on supply chain challenges like sustainability and AI integration, and economic insights on the freight market from industry experts Erik Starks and Bob Costello. The conversations
Furthermore, Don Hummer Trucking’s dedication to enhancing logistics services is reflected in its partnership with FourKites, a leading supply chain visibility platform. FourKites specializes in providing realtime tracking information and predictive analytics to improve supply chain efficiency, a vital tool for companies looking to optimize their shipment operations.
Leveraging the connectivity facilitated by ISAAC, an advanced transport management system, Don Hummer Trucking integrates seamlessly with FourKites. This synergy empowers the company with heightened tracking capabilities and comprehensive fleet management solutions that
foster informed decisionmaking and proactive disruption management.
In a rapidly evolving transportation industry, Don Hummer Trucking remains at the forefront, setting a standard for excellence and innovation. Through technological investments and strategic partnerships with industry trailblazers like FourKites and ISAAC, the company continues to pave the way for a more connected, efficient, and customercentric future in logistics. As they drive forward, Don Hummer Trucking exemplifies how a combination of experience, dedication, and cutting-edge technology can redefine the landscape of transportation services.
highlighted the need for adaptability, strategic sourcing, and attracting skilled talent to maintain industry resilience.
Networking sessions provided ample opportunities for forging new connections and reinforcing existing ones, embodying the conference’s vibrant energy. For Don Hummer Trucking, the event underscored their dedication to leading advancements and fostering partnerships within the supply chain sector.
As attendees left inspired, the insights from the FSA Conference 2024 promise to drive innovation and positive change across the food shipping industry, reflecting a shared commitment to excellence and collaboration.
// SAFETY TIPS
CVSA Roadcheck Blitz Week
Controlled Substance and Alcohol Possession
Controlled substance and alcohol possession by commercial motor vehicle drivers is a significant concern. In addition, the number of prohibited drivers in the U.S. Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse (DACH) is increasing. This alarming trend poses a threat to all motorists on our roadways.
Tractor Protection and Anti-Bleed Back Systems
A commercial motor vehicle’s tractor protection system consists of a tractor protection valve, trailer supply valve, and anti-bleed back valve. All valves should be tested appropriately during a driver’s trip and an inspector’s roadside inspection.
During the inspection of tractor protection system components, the inspectors:
• Ensure the wheel chocks are still in place and have the driver release all the brakes by pressing dash valves.
• Have the driver carefully remove the gladhands and allow air to escape.
• Confirm the air stops leaking from the supply line with at least 20 psi remaining.
• Listen and/or feel for any leaking air at the gladhand couplers on the trailer.
• Request a full-service brake application by the driver.
• Listen and/or feel for leaks from both air lines.
For the tractor protection system testing procedure, check the 2010-01 Tractor Protection Systems inspection bulletin at www.cvsa.org/inspections/inspection-bulletins.
While checking for the presence of alcohol or controlled substances during an inspection, inspectors:
• Observe the driver for signs of alcohol or controlled substance use and/or impairment.
• Examine the cab and trailer for alcohol or controlled substances.
• Conduct a query in the DACH (for inspections in the U.S.).
Tips for Motor Carriers
• Establish and strictly enforce clear policies to prevent controlled substance and alcohol possession or use in the workplace.
• Regularly query the DACH to ensure your drivers are not in prohibited status.
Tips for Drivers
• Do not possess, use, or be under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances while on duty. Remember, you are prohibited from having any detectable presence of alcohol and cannot use alcohol within four hours of coming on duty.
RICK DAVELUY // PHOTOGRAPHER
I’ve always been interested in photography, but when I started working at Don Hummer Trucking and traveling the country and seeing all the beautiful landscapes and wildlife, I knew I had to go all in.
My favorite camera is the Canon R5, which has various lenses suitable for wildlife and landscapes. I rely on a 600 mm lens for wildlife, particularly when capturing birds in flight.
For landscapes, I use my 28-70 mm lens. Long exposures are my favorite technique, ideal for capturing lightning, the Milky Way, or seeing motion within my images. The golden hour—when light is soft at sunrise or sunset—provides that special glow that makes photos come alive.
My favorite subjects are bald eagles; their majestic presence and symbolic significance to our country are inspiring. Capturing them mid-hunt or simply perched in a tree is always inspiring. My favorite landscape to photograph is the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah. The first time I saw it, the conditions were perfect: no wind and enough water on the flats to mirror the mountains in the background.
Most of my photography happens at rest areas and truck stops. So, the biggest challenge in taking good photos is to avoid distractions like light poles, power lines, and trash bins, which can detract from the natural beauty I aim to capture.
My advice for anyone who wants to improve their photography is to watch tutorials on YouTube and practice, practice, practice. You may take 50 photos just to get that perfect image—capturing the perfect light, scenery, or wildlife pose.
Photography has transformed my perspective. Instead of seeing things as a whole, I now look at them in segments and find beauty in everything.
Written by Ricky Daveluy
Photos: Ricky’s calendar photos, etc.
JDRF One Walk - May 11, 2024
GOING THE EXTRA MILE TOWARD A T1D CURE
Curing type 1 diabetes (T1D) isn’t a matter of “if” – it’s a matter of when. The world’s leading organization funding T1D research, Breakthrough T1D® (formerly JDRF) works tirelessly every day to accelerate life-changing breakthroughs to cure, prevent, and treat type 1 diabetes and its complications.
To show support, all it takes is a walk. The Breakthrough T1D Walk is the largest global event for the T1D community. On May 11, 2024, 388 participants met in Cedar Rapids to complete the three-mile Breakthrough T1D Eastern Iowa Walk, raising almost $320,000. These donations help drive research, enable more advocacy, and advance treatment to help make T1D a thing of the past.
What is type 1 diabetes (T1D)?
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that can strike anyone. It requires lifelong insulin therapy, with the constant threat of serious complications. Right now, there is no cure.
Don Hummer Trucking is a proud sponsor of this event. Approximately 120 of our employees and their family and friends participated this year. We also showed our support by prominently displaying the message, “Turning type one into type none.” on a wrapped trailer at the event’s location.
Special thanks to Kirkwood Community College for hosting!
Breakthrough T1D recently changed its name from JDRF, which stands for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, to reflect how T1D affects adults. Thousands rally to
help the 1.45 million Americans struggling with T1D each year to lead fuller, healthier lives.
Join the walk and make a lasting footprint. To learn more, visit: breakthrought1d.org/walk
WALKING THE WALK
Fast facts about JDRF One Walk, Cedar Rapids 2024
• 354.89 Miles walked
• Over $320,000 Funds raised
• 388 Total participants
• 120 Don Hummer Trucking participants
GOOD GOOD SEE THE BE THE
Junior Achievement is an organization that plays a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academic theories and real-world applications for young individuals. Its mission is to guide young people to realize the plethora of opportunities available by connecting classroom learning with the practical world.
JA in a Day
The organization specializes in imparting knowledge on crucial life skills, including financial literacy, workplace readiness, and entrepreneurship. The effectiveness of these lessons is significantly enhanced as they are delivered by a committed network of education partners and volunteers.
Among these dedicated volunteers is Elvir Begic, a Business Development Executive at Don Hummer Trucking. Elvir’s contribution to the community extends beyond his professional role as he also serves as a board member and volunteer for Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa.
Elvir recently took part in a “JA in a Day” event, a platform that allowed him to engage directly with a young audience — in this case, a classroom of 5th graders. Reflecting on the experience, Elvir expressed
a profound sense of fulfillment from giving back to the community. He was particularly impressed by the students’ enthusiasm and engagement with the concepts of work readiness, entrepreneurship, and the dynamics of global markets, including supply and demand.
He observed that Junior Achievement’s diverse educational opportunities lay a solid foundation for the individual growth of children and the community’s collective future. Elvir shared a personal reflection, noting that while he did not have access to a program like Junior Achievement in his youth, he is convinced that such an experience would have had a profound impact on his professional life.
Elvir’s involvement with Junior Achievement and his active participation in events like “JA in a Day” not only enriches the lives of the students he interacts with but also exemplifies the spirit of community service and the profound effects of volunteerism in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
LINK TO ELVIR’S LINKEDIN ACCOUNT: linkedin.com/in/elvir-begic-73a192150/
Driving Innovation: Elevating Driver Experience with Isaac and McLeod Partnership
Trucking businesses operate on tight margins, so we are always looking for ways to optimize operations. Integrating of ISAAC’s electronic logging device (ELD) and telematics solution with McLeod Software’s transportation management systems provides more ways to boost efficiency and simplify driving workflow.
Integrated features, including real-time GPS data, allow our fleet to optimize their workflows while making daily tasks more manageable for drivers and our back office. personnel. Our drivers are equipped with complete load visibility, real-time updates, and improved mobile communications tools. Our dispatchers are better able to match loads to nearby drivers with available hours and manage workflows from beginning to end.
Don Hummer Trucking and IMTA Celebrate Trucking at the State Capitol
Earlier this year, members of the Iowa Motor Truck Association (IMTA) traveled to the Iowa Capitol to meet with state legislators. The event is part of ongoing efforts by IMTA to engage with lawmakers to foster understanding and garner support for the trucking industry.
Don Hummer Trucking Corporation stood prominently among participants, with CEO Chris Hummer and professional driver Lynn Trumpold representing the company. Hummer and other IMTA members discussed the importance of the trucking industry, its current challenges, and the need for legislation to help ensure its continued success and safety.
Trumpold offered truck rides, providing legislators with a firsthand glimpse of a day in the life of truck drivers. Legislators also had the opportunity to run a driver simulator at IMTA’s show trailer to get a taste of the skill and precision required in truck driving and technological advances within the industry. By stepping into the actual and virtual cabs of those who keep America moving, lawmakers gained a deeper appreciation of the trucking profession.
Don Hummer Trucking’s participation in this event reflects our commitment to industry advocacy and leadership. By actively engaging in discussions and initiatives promoting the trucking industry, our company reinforces its dedication to its growth and the prosperity and recognition of the trucking community at large.
IMTA Fast Facts
For over 80 years, the Iowa Motor Truck Association (IMTA) has provided a unified voice for the Iowa trucking industry. The association represents over 400 trucking companies and suppliers, which employ thousands of people throughout the state. IMTA advocates for policy and legislation that support the goals and future success of its members.
It would take 60 of today’s clean diesel trucks to equal the emissions of truck sold in 1988 Source: trucking.org
Celebrating Milestones with the Ultimate Driver Challenge
Don Hummer Trucking has always prided itself on setting the standard in safety and driver recognition. As part of this enduring commitment, we introduced our Ultimate Driver Challenge: The Road to 2 Million Miles — a safety recognition program designed with our drivers at its heart.
The journey began in early 2022 when we set out to revamp our safety recognition efforts. We wanted a program that didn’t just acknowledge our drivers’ professional skills and dedication. Recognizing the shared journey of our drivers was paramount in crafting a program that truly reflects the values of Don Hummer Trucking.
WALL
The Ultimate Driver Recognition wall, placed in the Homestead Driver’s Lounge, is more than a mere display; it’s a testament to the milestones our drivers achieve. Starting at 500,000 safe miles, drivers see their names ascend the wall, moving up with every 250,000 safe miles driven. This wall is updated monthly to honor the commitment and care our drivers invest in every mile.
AWARDS
But the accolades don’t stop at the lounge. As drivers hit new milestones, they receive custom awards for their families to showcase at home and credit to use at our company store for exclusive merchandise. These tokens of appreciation serve as a constant reminder of our gratitude for their safe driving practices.
The rollout of the Ultimate Driver Challenge marks a new era of recognition within our company. We invite you to join us in this celebration by watching our drivers scale new heights and share the joy of their success. Because at Don Hummer Trucking, every mile and journey is a story worth celebrating.
joinhummer.com/about/ultimate-driver-challenge
SEPTEMBER 15-21
2024 EVENT SCHEDULE
Jun
Truck Driving Championship
Jul
Mid-Year Company Event
Walcott Truckers Jamboree
Brake Safety Week
Truck Driving Championships
Who are the best of the best? Every year, drivers at the annual Iowa Truck Driving Championships (TDC) compete to find out. The 2024 event was held June 13-14 at Prairie Meadows Hotel & Casino in Altoona, IA.
IMRA Management Conference Truck Driver Appreciation Week McLeod User Conference
Competitors are tested in four areas: a written exam, personal interview, pre-trip inspection, and driving skills test. The skills test is held on two identical courses using the same equipment to ensure fair competition.
Drivers are nominated by their companies and must have an accidentfree record.
To learn more, visit: iowamotortruck.com/tdc-landing
