Spring 2012 | Volume 19 | Issue 2 | www.oktrucking.org
Oklahoma Driver of the Year
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Gregory Cotten
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1805 S. Commerce 1018 SE 1st 1908 Chico Hwy. Ardmore, OK 73401 Bridgeport, TX 76426 Lawton, OK 73501 (580) 223-0854 (580) 354-9992 (940) 683-3558 15705 E. Skelly Dr. 4650 S. Loop 340 Tulsa, OK 74116 Robinson, TX 76706 (918) 437-8383 (254) 662-6600
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In this issue FEATURES 32 24 26 34 36 44 48 50 52
Gregory Cotten: Oklahoma Driver of the Year 2011 Million Mile Drivers 2011 Professional Drivers Fleet Safety Awards Banquet 2011 Fleet Safety Award Winners Kimberly Gonzalez: 2011 Safety Professional of the Year 2011 Grand Trophy: Hoffmeier, Inc. Midwinter Conference Donor Appreciation Dinner
DEPARTMENTS Editorials 5 From the Editor OTA News 6 United Petroleum Transports Presents Professionalism Awards 7 Oklahoma Trucking Association Named One of Constant Contact’s 2011 All Stars 19 Truck Driving Championship Season Has Begun!
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New Members 8 Trucking Tidbits: Nationwide News 10 FMCSA Reverses Course and Withdraws CSA Crash Accountability Process Until Further Notice 10 December 2011 Surface Trade with Canada & Mexico Rose 11.6 Percent from December 2010 11 ATA Membership Fraud Alert State Matters 14 Republican Leaders Press Ahead on Cluster of Substantive Policy Proposals 16 Governor Mary Fallin’s tax plan clears House A&B panel
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TMC Spotlight 47 OSMC’s Safety Zone 18 Sharing the Road Upcoming Events 21 Member Spotlight 54 Miller Truck Lines
*Cover and Award photography by Carrie Strong, carriestrong.com
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Editor & Publisher Shannon Helton shannonhelton@oktrucking.org For advertising rates and information, please contact Shannon Helton at 405.445.1790, or visit oktrucking.org for rate sheets and additional information.
Printing Southwestern Stationary & Bank Supply, Inc.
Executive Director Dan Case dancase@oktrucking.org Bookkeeper Les Hinkle leshinkle@oktrucking.org Director of Events Rebecca Chappell rebeccachappell@oktrucking.org Chairman of Board John Titsworth Triad Transport
Board of Directors Bob Peterson Melton Truck Line Greg Price OTL-UPT Dusty Runnels Hamm & Phillips Service Company David McCorkle McCorkle Truck Line LaVern McCorkle McCorkle Truck Line Steve Niswander Groendyke Transport Jim Klepper Drivers Legal Plan Carmalieta Wells Madewell & Madewell, Inc. Susan Alexander Tri Alexander Transportation, Inc. David Freymiller Freymiller, Inc. Ken Case Dugan Truck Line, Inc. Michael Mayer Rush Truck Centers Donnie Tulk OTL-UPT Bonne Karim TMC Representative Robert O’Brien Time Lines Management Shawn Reeves Advance Food Company
OMC is published quarterly by the Oklahoma Trucking Association, 3909 N. Lindsay, Oklahoma City, OK 73105. Office of Publication, Southwestern Stationary, OKC, Okla. Bulk Rate postage paid at OKC, Okla. Please address all correspondence to 3909 N. Lindsay, Oklahoma City, OK 73105
from the This past January, my mom came down to Oklahoma City to stay the weekend with me. She brought her dog too (who I like to call “Brother Dog”). Now, I’m an only child and like to help Mom out whenever I can, so when she said that Brother Dog needed a bath, I suggested we take him to the dog wash. We loaded Brother Dog into the back of my car and piled in. We were laughing and joking as the garage door raised and I started to back out of the driveway. Then --- CRUNCH. Now, I will filter out what my next thoughts were, but I can tell you that Brother Dog looked a bit anxious, Mom said “Shannon!” in the way only my mother can, and I put my car into drive, then stopped and got out. In those few minutes, I went from being the good daughter who was going to wash the dog, to the daughter that just did over a thousand dollars in damage her mother’s car. It was one of those, “Seriously?! How could I be so stupid?!” moments. Moments we all have, but I got to thinking -- what about those Million Mile drivers? I’m serious here. One thing that always amazes me at the annual Fleet Safety Awards Banquet are the Million Mile drivers. These drivers have over a million, a million, safe driving miles. No accidents. None. I think I reached about 250,000 miles when the driveway debacle occurred. It just puts it all into perspective. You have to respect that achievement and what safety professionals do for our carriers every single hour of the day. The OSMC had a great theme a few years ago at the Truck Driving Championships. It was “Safety Never Takes a Holiday.” Truer words couldn’t have been spoken. So sit back & enjoy this issue that honors all that safety professionals and drivers strive for each day.
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Every Where.
United Petroleum Transports Presents Professionalism Awards United Petroleum Transports has named Ronald Shults as “2011 Professional Driver of the Year”, according to Greg Price, President and CEO. “After 30 plus years Ronald has extensive knowledge of his profession and demonstrates his abilities in a sound and skillful manner. He was nominated for UPT Driver of the Year in 2006, 2009 and 2010 and has continued to perform in an commendable manner,” said Price. “He is fully deserving of our top award, “Professional Driver of the Year.” Shults, who is with the UPT Customer Service Center in Odessa, Texas and lives in Big Spring with his wife Cheryl, has safely logged over 750,000 career miles.
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Also honored as the “Recruit of the Year” was Jimmy Williams of the Dallas/Ft. Worth Customer Service Center. Awarded to the new member of the UPT team who is “professional, dedicated and exceptional,” Williams was recognized for his knowledge of the trucking industry and his focus on safety as a top priority. David Byerly of the Shreveport Customer Service Center was named as the “2011 Technician of the Year.” During the last five years, Byerly has displayed an outstanding level of service for UPT by being safe and keeping the fleet on the road. Other drivers recognized for superior performance were: Bill Evans and Ruben Perez, DFW; Larry Dixon and Kenneth Pitts, Houston; Tommy Johnson and Brad Whitaker Odessa; Anthony Jones, Phoenix; Ed Norman, San Antonio; Paul Starnes, Shreveport; Harvie Pinkerton, Tulsa; and Doug Million, Wichita. “To be named one of the top 12 drivers in a fleet of over 600 drivers is exceptional. These gentlemen deserve congratulations on a job well done,” said Price. United Petroleum Transports is a third generation, Oklahoma family-owned company. Founded in 1966 by the late Keith Price, it expanded outside of Oklahoma in 1980 and is the largest hauler of liquid petroleum products in Oklahoma. The company has 16 service centers in Arizona, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas.
OKLAHOMA TRUCKING ASSOCIATION
MEMBER NEWS
Oklahoma Trucking Association Named One of Constant Contact’s 2011 All Stars The Oklahoma Trucking Association has received the 2011 All Star Award from Constant Contact®, Inc., the trusted marketing advisor to more than half a million small organizations worldwide. Each year, a select group of Constant Contact customers are honored with the All Star Award for their exemplary marketing results. OTA’s results ranked among the top 10% of Constant Contact’s customer base. “There is nothing we like more than to see our customers finding success. It’s the reason Constant Contact was founded, and it’s a thrill to see the fantastic results that our All Stars are achieving,” said Gail Goodman, CEO of Constant Contact. “This group is really leading the charge when it comes to delivering relevant, engaging content that drives real business results. We salute this year’s All Stars for their success, and are honored to have played a part in their achievements.” Constant Contact is revolutionizing the success formula for small organizations through affordable, easy-to-use Engagement Marketing tools that help create and grow customer relationships. More than half a million small businesses, non profits, and associations worldwide rely on Constant Contact to drive ongoing customer dialogs through email marketing, social media marketing, event marketing, and online surveys. All Constant Contact products come with unrivaled Know How, education, and free coaching with a personal touch, including award-winning customer support.
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MEMBER NEWS
OKLAHOMA TRUCKING ASSOCIATION
NEW MEMBERS
ART Transport, Inc. Kim George Email: kim.george@arttrucking.com Phone: (479) 474-5600 Fax: (479) 471-1818 P. O. Box 644 2505 Industrial Park Road Van Buren, AR 72957 Website: www.arttrucking.com Capital One Equipment Leasing & Finance Dave Simpson Email: david.simpson@capitalone.com Phone: (214) 495-9170 Fax: (214) 457-7366 419 Wood Bridge Drive Allen, TX 73013 Website: www.caitalone.com/commercial Services Provided: Specialty financing group within Capital One Bank, we offer loan or lease services for truck and trailer purchases. Coffey, Gudgel & McDaniel, PLLC David Senger Email: david@cgmlawok.com Phone: (918) 292-8787 Fax: (918) 292-8788 4725 East 91st Street, Suite 100 Tulsa, OK 74137 Website: www.cgmlawok.com Services Provided: Legal. Coffeyville Resources Crude Transportation M.J. “Mac” McDonald Email: mjmcdonald@cvrenergy.com Phone: (918) 333-4111 Fax: (918) 333-4173 P. O. Box 74 411 N.E. Washington Blvd. Bartlesville, OK 74006 Website: www.cvrenergy.com Services Provided: Transportation of crude oil for CRV Energy. Double Trouble Trucking Evelyn Rhodes Email: DOUBLETRBL00@yahoo.com Phone: (580) 889-7773 Fax: (580) 889-7779 P. O. Box 69 Caney, OK 74533 Services Provided: Heavy haul trucking glat bed van construction hauling.
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Enterprise Crude Oil, LLC Jeff Beighle & Nikki Walden Email: jwbeighle@eprod.com Phone: (405) 595-0635 Fax: (405) 606-4528 210 Park Avenue, Ste. 1600 Oklahoma City, OK 73102 Services Provided: Crude Oil Transportation. Fluid Services, LLC Mike Tauscher Email: mtauscher@fluidservices.net Phone: (405) 224-8721 Fax: (405) 224-8729 P. O. Box 244 3688 N. Highway 81 Ninnekah, OK 73067 Services Provided: Oil field transportation services. GST Transport Systems Richard Binkley Email: rbinkley@gstts.com Phone: (713) 580-7417 Fax: (713) 580-5880 21021 Essman Lane Houston, TX 77073 J D Delivery Services, Inc. Ashli Ceasar Email: aceasar@roadrunnertrucks.com Phone: (918) 582-7001 Fax: (918) 582-8741 215 N. Walnut Sapulpa, OK 74066 National Bankers Trust Rob Lyons Email: rlyons@nbtmail.com Phone: (901) 255-8334 Fax: (619) 491-2974 8245 Tournament Drive, Ste. 120 Memphis, TN 38125 Website: www.nationalbankerstrust.com Prepaid Legal Independent Associate Woody Wood Email: tmwood@prepaidlegal.com Phone: (918) 408-2634 8329 S. 68th East Avenue Tulsa, OK 74133
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MEMBER NEWS
NATIONWIDE NEWS
TRUCKING TIDBITS
FMCSA Reverses Course and Withdraws CSA Crash Accountability Process Until Further Notice ATA Truckline
At an industry stakeholder meeting in Washington today, initiated by FMCSA Administrator Ferro, ATA learned troubling news that the agency is “pulling back” on its plans to implement a CSA crash accountability process “until further notice.” As recently as just 4 weeks U.S. Department Transportation ago (February 9, 2012) FMCSA confirmed to ATA and other stakeholders its previously announced plans to allow carriers toof challenge Office of Public Affairs the use of crashes for which carriers are not accountable in assigning carriers’ CSA Crash Indicator scores. 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 www.dot.gov/briefing-room.html
Subsequent to February 9, the agency and the Secretary of Transportation received feedback from a few public interest groups raising questions about the “reliability of police accident reports” that FMCSA was planning to use as part of the crash accountabilityBTS deterData mination process. As a result, FMCSA now says it needs to address a “series of questions” about the police accident reports, and how BTS 09-12 they might be used in their intended process. ATA and other industry stakeholders were highly disappointed by this announcement and Tuesday, February 28, 2012 expressed it during the meeting. ATA will be redoubling its efforts to get theSmallen agency to quickly address the “questions” raised so that it Contact: Dave can move forward in implementing a reasonable process. Tel: 202-366-5568
Stay tuned on more information and guidance from ATA on how carrier members might be able to assist in getting the process back on December 2011 Surface Trade with Canada and Mexico Rose 11.6 Percent track. from December 2010
December 2011 Surface Trade with Canada and Mexico Rose 11.6 Percent from December 2010
North American Surface Trade, January 2010 - December 2011
USDOT
Trade using surface transportation between the United States and its North American neighbors, Canada and Mexico, was 11.6 percent higher in December 2011 than in December 2010, totaling $74.2 billion (Table 1), according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) of the U.S. Department of Transportation. BTS, a part of the Research and Innovative Technology AdminTrade using surface transportation between the United States and its North American istration, reported that the December 2011 value of U.S. surface neighbors, Canada and Mexico, was 11.6 percent in December 2011 thanvariain December 2011. Month-to-month changes can higher be affected by seasonal 2010, totaling $74.2 billion (Table 1), according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) transportation trade with Canada and Mexico, the United States’ tions and other factors. of the U.S. Department of Transportation. North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) partners, rose 27.0 percent in the past two years from December 2009, and 40.3 U.S.-Canada and U.S.-Mexico surface transportation trade both percent from December 2008. increased compared to December 2010 with U.S.-Canada reaching - more $44.2 billion, an 11.2 percent increase, and U.S.-Mexico reaching The value of U.S. surface transportation trade with Canada and $30.0 billion, a 12.1 percent increase. Mexico in December increased by 25.7 percent when compared to December 2006, and also increased by 94.1 percent when com- In December trade by state, Michigan led all states in surface trade pared to December 2001, a period of 10 years. Imports in Decem- with Canada as it has in previous years, at $5.6 billion, a 19.7 perber were up 85.7 percent since December 2001, while exports cent increase from December 2010. Texas also continued to lead were up 105.2 percent. See Transborder Press Releases for his- all states in surface trade with Mexico at $10.3 billion, an 8.7 pertoric data. Values in this press release are not adjusted for inflation. cent increase from December 2010. Surface transportation includes freight movements by truck, rail, pipeline, mail, Foreign Trade Zones, and other. In December, 85.5 percent of U.S. trade by value with Canada and Mexico moved via land, 10.0 percent moved by vessel, and 4.5 percent moved by air. The value of U.S. surface transportation trade with Canada and Mexico decreased 3.2 percent in December 2011 from November
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The news release and summary tables can be found at www.bts. gov. More information on TransBorder Freight Data, data from previous months, and individual state data are available online on the BTS website at http://www.bts.gov/programs/international/ transborder/. BTS has scheduled release of January TransBorder numbers for March 27.
MEMBER NEWS
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MEMBER NEWS
CAPITOL & STATE DEPARTMENTS
STATE MATTERS
Republican Leaders Press Ahead on Cluster of Substantive Policy Proposals Patrick B. McGuigan Published: 09-Mar-2012
Tax reform and tax reduction -- as well as the fate of existing tax credits and business incentives – are coming to dominate policy discussions at the state Capitol in Oklahoma City. By no means, however, are those the only substantive matters under consideration in the 2012 session. Both of the top Republican legislative leaders believe that “Open Carry” legislation, advocated by Second Amendment activists, will pass and be signed into law. Senate President Pro Temp Brian Bingman observed, in his weekly discussion with the Capitol press corps, “There is strong sentiment for that. Oklahoma is one of just [a few] that doesn’t have open carry provisions. Now, some actually prefer concealed carry.” Speaker of the House Kris Steele said he is “very supportive” of the measure because he believes it includes safeguards allowing law enforcement to work peacefully with gun owners. In response to a question from one reporter, Steele said a recent gun incident in Tulsa did not give him any second thoughts about the proposal. Concerning this week’s disclosure of a highly critical audit of privately-funded bank accounts used to finance past Department of Education events, Bingman was asked if he thought there would be a push for further investigation or examination of past policies at the agency. Bingman said, “Any member can request we take a special look at something. I don’t know enough yet to comment intelligently on that one.” When he was asked about the audit, Steele said. “I’ve not had a chance to read it. Based on what I’ve read in the newspaper, a lot of it shocking, if true. Some of the actions taken seem inappropriate.” Bingman predicted the Senate Judiciary Committee would consider Steele’s justice reinvestment proposal and the upper chamber would “get it done in the next 2-3 weeks.” House Bill 3052 passed the House 66-27 on Tuesday. Concerning the approval of supplemental funding for core services in the current Fiscal Year (2012), both leaders said they were happy with the package that advanced in the past two weeks. Steele elaborated, “I am glad the supplementals are moving forward. The economy has allowed us to do that. I believe that bill will be eligible to be signed by the governor next week.”
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In his session with reporters, Speaker Steele gave strong support to the push by Speaker-designate T.W. Shannon, a Lawton Republican, in the area of transportation system improvements, including the Sooner State’s notorious bridges.
Shannon’s House Bill 2248 aims to increase road funding from another $19.2 million beyond a $37.5 million boost already planned for the Rebuilding Oklahoma Access and Driver Safety Fund. According to Steele’s communication’s staff, “The bill directs that the fund continue receiving an additional $56.7 million each year until the total increase equals $550 million.” Shannon is also pushing House Bill 2249, a measure increasing the percentage of licensing fees and penalties going to the County Improvements for Roads and Bridges Fund. Both bills, part of the transportation infrastructure program Gov. Mary Fallin detailed in her State of the State address last month, sailed through the House this week. Steele gave a new “atta-boy” to his ally on pension reform, state Rep. Randy McDaniel of Oklahoma City. McDaniel’s House Bill 2952 increases state government and employee contributions to the Oklahoma Law Enforcement Retirement System (OLERS) by 1 percentage point each. This is projected to provide another $1.42 million every year. H.B. 2952 also puts new members of the OLERS system under the same benefit structure as other state employees. Although once a well-funded program (as high as 100 percent adequacy in 2001), OLERS in the past decade has become increasingly untenable, now standing at 75 percent funded. (The private sector standard for sufficiency is 80 percent funding, at a minimum.) The latest pension reform measure to clear the House joins the wave of reforms McDaniel has crafted and Steele has pressed, in close cooperation with state Sen. Mike Mazzei of Tulsa. CapitolBeatOK deemed the 2011 pension reforms as the most significant public policy steps taken in Oklahoma last year. On another topic, Steele said state Rep. Jason Murphey’s proposals to open records/open meeting provisions to the Legislature are “the next logical step” in the push for openness and transparency that has characterized the past two years. Thursday, the House worked well into the evening. With another round of bill processing deadlines looming, he explained, “We are trying to maximize the time and not make important decisions at 10 or 11 or 12 o’clock at night. I’ve been pleasantly surprised at the progress thus far.” With roughly another 100 bills to process in the coming week, Steele warned he could not promise there would be no midnight sessions, but stressed he was hopeful of avoiding that.
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CAPITOL & STATE DEPARTMENTS
STATE MATTERS
Governor Mary Fallin’s tax plan clears House A&B panel CapitolBeatOK Staff Report Published: 29-Feb-2012
The “Oklahoma Tax Reduction and Simplification Act,” the state income tax cut plan outlined by Governor Mary Fallin in her State of the State address, Wednesday, February 29 cleared the House Appropriations and Budget Committee. The proposal passed with 11 Republican votes in favor. Opposing the measure were five Democrats and one Republican. The measure, House Bill 3061, is sponsored by House Speaker Kris Steele and Senate President Pro Tempore Brian Bingman. The bill now heads to the House floor before it can make its way to the Senate. A&B Chairman Earl Sears of Bartlesville promised both supporters and opponents of the measure in its current form that the measure was headed “to a room where we’re going to be looking at all the tax plans.” Gov. Fallin applauded the panel’s action, saying, “The Oklahoma Tax Reduction and Simplification Act is a game-changer for the state. This reform measure will provide immediate tax relief to a large majority of Oklahoma families while delivering a far more attractive tax climate for businesses deciding where to locate. “By passing this legislation, we’ll be leaving more money in the pockets of working Oklahomans while helping to attract new and better jobs. This will deliver the boldest, most significant tax reduction in state history, and I commend the Legislature for moving forward today with this bill.” In addition to cutting taxes, the Oklahoma Tax Reduction and Simplification Act replaces Oklahoma’s seven bracket income tax structure, which taxes the first penny that every Oklahoman makes, with three new rates characterized by Fallin’s staff as “lower, flatter and simpler.” Those tax cuts would go into effect on January 1, 2013. After 2013, the Oklahoma Tax Reduction and Simplification Act proposes further reductions by cutting the remaining income tax an additional quarter point in every year where the state of Oklahoma hits a revenue growth trigger of 5 percent, eventually eliminating the income tax for every Oklahoman. Some analysts say the trigger would mean a 20-to-30 year glide path before the income tax levy is entirely eliminated.
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Both House Speaker Steele of Shawnee and President Pro Tem Bingman of Sapulpa reiterated their support for income tax reductions. “The Legislature is fully committed to a growth-spurring, respon-
sible income tax reduction and I am pleased the governor’s plan is moving forward,” said Steele. “The governor has a bold vision and we’re committed to working with her to achieve our common goal of building a more prosperous Oklahoma.” “The people of Oklahoma are hungry for real, meaningful tax reform, and we have every intention of coming through for them,” said Bingman. “Governor Fallin has given us a great starting point as we discuss the various income tax reduction proposals in the legislature. While we have a long road ahead to craft a final bill, I am proud to stand with her as we fight for lower taxes and less government. Cutting the income tax, and focusing what we do spend on core services like teaching in the classroom, fixing our broken roads, and fighting crime in our communities, is a recipe for jobs and prosperity that Oklahomans deserve.” The committee rejected two proposed amendments. One from state Rep. Joe Dorman, a Rush Springs Democrat, would have stressed that if taxes rose on any Oklahoman as a result of the law’s passage, the provisions of State Question 640 would be enforced. (The measure requires either a three-fourths majority of the Legislature or popular approval of any tax increase.) Speaker Steele, presenting the bill before the A&B panel, said the Dorman proposal was unnecessary because the constitutional provisions of S.Q. 640 would not be repealed. The committee tabled Dorman’s motion 12-5. A second proposed amendment from state Rep. Don Armes, a Faxon Republican, would have retained a Wind Power tax credit so long as turbines are, as Armes put it, “in the air and producing power.” Steele said he had discussed the issue with Armes but that the amendment was unnecessary, contending “this is very much a work in progress and all possible changes will still be considered.” Armes’ amendment was tabled on a 9-8 vote, with some Republicans joining the panel’s Democrats in opposition of the tabling motion from Speaker Steele. In debate on the bill, Democratic state Rep. Mike Brown of Tahlequah argued passionately but briefly that “our tax system is not broken in Oklahoma.” Speaker Steele responded, saying he hoped members would support the bill to keep open the dialogue on all income tax reform measures under consideration. The Oklahoma Tax Reduction and Simplification Act was included as part of a balanced Executive Budget submitted by Governor Fallin at the beginning of the legislative session. It has a fiscal year impact of $131,984,000 in FY 2013, with a full fiscal year impact of $329,960,000 in subsequent years, according to the Oklahoma Tax Commission. Fallin said the plan, which cuts approximately $992 million in income taxes, will be paid for in three ways: eliminating approxi-
mately $662 million in tax credits and tax deductions, reducing government spending by cutting waste, and utilizing growth revenue that occurs as the result of pro-growth policies. The state also currently has $47.2 million more in available revenue for FY 2013 than was originally predicted. “Our current tax system is based on outdated income brackets and littered with carve-outs and loopholes,” Fallin said. “By eliminating these loopholes, we can lower taxes and create a simpler and fairer tax system. That alone will help to reduce government bureaucracy. The Oklahoma Tax Commission predicts that it will save $300,000 simply from processing fewer and less complicated tax returns.” “Moving forward, we need to continue to eliminate government waste and reduce the size of government. Many of our agencies can continue to identify ways to operate more efficiently and effectively. Finding those savings is a responsibility we have to our citizens as well as an important step in funding this tax cut plan.” In other action, the House A&B Committee advanced House Bill 3038, by state Rep. Leslie Osborn of Tuttle, on an 11-4 vote, with no Republican opposition and four Democrats against the measure. Note: Editor Patrick B. McGuigan contributed to this report.
Mack Truck Sales of Tulsa, Inc. (918) 446-5571 5301 W. 60th St. South TULSA
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Sharing the Road All of us in the Trucking Industry have heard and know what “Sharing the Road” means. We’ve all seen “No Zone” training, pictures, or some of the decaled trailers. We know how important it is to operate safely around commercial vehicles, but how about the general public? Think of your children, grand children who are new drivers or just learning to drive. Have they been trained in the Driver’s Ed program or have you explained the safe way to operate around trucks? Explained or pointed out the trucks blind spots? Each year thousands of people are either injured or killed from accidents involving trucks. Many of these are due to them being in the trucks blind spots. We can reduce those numbers through training, training our drivers and the general public. We can start new drivers off right by offering “Share the Road” training during Drivers Education; we can train all of our employees; set No Zone displays. ATA and CVSA have “Share the Road” programs available for training and OSMC is always willing to assist, we can speak to students or conduct the training. For information or help, contact information is on the website; oksafetymanagementcouncil.com
First Vice President Kimberly Gonzalez Hoffmeier, Inc. Second Vice President John Mallory John Christner Trucking Secretary/Treasurer Chris Pape Groendyke Transport
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with
Louis Thompson, CDS OSMC Chairman Beaver Express Service
OKLAHOMA TRUCKING ASSOCIATION
NOTICES & UPDATES
Truck Driving Championship Season Has Begun! Can you believe that Truck Driving Championship season is already here? Oklahoma is holding the 2012 Truck Driving Championships on June 1 and 2 in Oklahoma City. The winners from each state’s competition will go on to compete at the National Truck Driving Championships in Minneapolis this August 7-11.
2012 Nationwide TDC Schedule Alabama June 1-2
Idaho May 11-12
New Mexico May 5
Alaska May 18-19
Illinois June 15-16
New York June 8-9
Arizona April 21
Indiana June 22-23
North Carolina May 11-12
Iowa June 7-8
North Dakota June 2
Kansas June 15
Ohio June 15-16
Kentucky May 18-19
Oklahoma June 1-2
Louisiana March 30-31
Oregon June 9
Maine May 19
Pennsylvania June 8-9
Maryland June 9
Rhode Island June 16
Massachusetts May 20
South Carolina April 20-21
Michigan June 8-9
South Dakota May 12
Minnesota June 9-10
Tennessee April 27-28
Mississippi April 27-28
Texas Finals June 15-16
Missouri June 8-9
Utah June 8-9
Montana June 16
Virginia April 20-21
Nebraska June 8-9
Washington June 23
Nevada June 2
West Virginia June 23
It takes a lot of people to put on a successful Truck Driving Arkansas June 8-9 Championship each year and Oklahoma is known for having one of the best events in the country. California Final May 20 You can help support this year’s TDC by volunteering your time during the event or by taking advantage of one of the Colorado many sponsorship opportunities that are available. The spon- June 2 sorship classes that are available this year include: Grand Champion $6000, Class Champion $3000, Rookie of the Connecticut Year $1500, Safety Professional $500, Competitor $250 and June 9 Friends of TDC $100. Delaware May 12 In addition to the general sponsorships available, you can also support the Oklahoma TDC by being a program sponsor. The Florida program sponsorships that are currently available include: May 31 - June 3 Full Page $300, Half Page $150, Quarter Page $75, Business Card $25. Georgia May 10-12 For more information, please visit www.oksafetymanagement.com or contact the TDC Chair, John Mallory at (918) Hawaii June 15-16 347-2327 or by email at johnmallory@johnchristner.com.
New Hampshire/ Wisconsin Vermont June 8-9 June 2 Wyoming New Jersey June 9 June 8-9
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OKLAHOMA TRUCKING ASSOCIATION
UPCOMING EVENTS
April
June
TMC Supertech Registration Form Deadline Fri, April 20, 2012
Wilburn Williamson Memorial Scholarship Deadline June 1, 2012
May
The Oklahoma Trucking Association is proud to announce the 2012 Wilburn Williamson Memorial Scholarship.
TMC Supertech Competition Fri, May 4, 2012
A $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to one qualified applicant chosen by a third party panel. The qualifications for the scholarship include:
2012 SuperTech Competition May 4, Francis Tuttle Reno Campus. PHMSA Free Hazardous Material Workshop Tue, May 22, 2012 The Oklahoma Safety Management Council presents a FREE Hazardous Materials Transportation Workshop at: Tulsa Tech Center Service Center 3420 S. Memorial Tulsa, OK 74145 Register online today at hazmat.dot.gov PHMSA Free Hazardous Material Workshop Thu, May 24, 2012
· Child or grandchild of an employee of an OTA member company · High school GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale · High school Senior · Enrolled, or plan to enroll, at a university or college for the 2011 Fall semester · All required documents including: High School Transcript Completed application 1 page single-spaced, typed essay Topic: Is society too dependent on computers and technology? Applications will be judged by a third-party and only properly completed applications and documents post marked by the deadline will be considered. The winner will be notified by the Oklahoma Trucking Association after judging is completed.
The Oklahoma Safety Management Council presents a FREE Hazardous Materials Transportation Workshop Applications must be postmarked by June 1, 2012. You may at: download the application on the OTA’s website at www. Francis Tuttle Technology Center - Reno Campus 7301 W. Reno Oklahoma City, OK 73127 Register online today at hazmat.dot.gov
oktrucking.org/events
Oklahoma Truck Driving Championship June 1-2, 2012 Annually the Oklahoma Trucking Association and the Oklahoma Safety Management Council hold the state Truck Driving Championship. This two-day event puts each contestant through their paces with the challenges of a written exam, personal interview, pretrip inspection and a skills course. After the competition is over, we celebrate the accomplishments of these fine drivers at our awards banquet. Winners of each class go on to compete in the ATA National Truck Driving Championship. Please contact the TDC chairman, John Mallory, with any questions you may have.
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OKLAHOMA TRUCKING ASSOCIATION
UPCOMING EVENTS June
November
2012 Summer Shoot-Out June 14, 2012
Driver Compliance: Accident Prevention & Site Preservation Mon, November 12, 2012
The Oklahoma Trucking Association is hosting its Annual Summer Shoot-Out Golf Tournament at the exciting and well-received Coffee Creek Golf Course in Edmond.
TMC Fall Technology Workshop Wed, November 14, 2012
TMC Fall Technology Workshop, November 14, 2012. We encourage you to register today for this fun day Francis Tuttle Reno Campus. More information to with great networking opportunities and the chance follow! to win prizes as well as support the OTA, Wilburn Williamson Scholarship and the PAC Fund. Driver Compliance: CSA & Beyond Wed, June 27, 2012 Driver Compliance: Surviving a DOT Audit Thu, June 28, 2012 Driver Compliance: Reasonable Suspicion for Drug & Alcohol Fri, June 29, 2012
December
NATMI CDS & CSS Safety Certification December 3-7, 2012 Held at the OTA’s conference room in Oklahoma City. Please register through NATMI by calling (303) 9524013 or online through oktrucking.org.
July NATMI Certified Driver Trainer Program July 17-19, 2012 The course below is applicable toward NATMI’s nationally recognized, university accredited Certified Driver Trainer (CDT) program. Taking the course is the first step toward earning a credential that will help you become a more competent professional, earn industry recognition and credibility in court testimony. If you have the job experience, you can pay one lump sum that covers all fees for certification, and complete the process within a 60-day time frame – or less. Held at the OTA’s conference room in Oklahoma City. Please register through NATMI by calling (303) 9524013 or online through oktrucking.org.
September OTA 80th Annual Convention September 19-21, 2012
IsThis How It FeelsTo Maintain A DOT Compliant Drug-FreeWorkplace? USA Mobile DrugTesting® is the single-source solution for human resources and trucking professionals. We make life easier for employers like you to create, implement and execute DOT Compliant drug-free workplace and safety programs that align with your company’s specific needs and requirements.
If So, Call Us.
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22
Call: (405) 822-0553 or 855- USA-TEST www.USAMDT.com/oklahomacity oklahomacity@USAMDT.com
over
62,000,000
safe miles
counting The Oklahoma Trucking Association is proud to salute this year’s million mile drivers. These drivers were honored at the 2012 Fleet Safety Awards banquet as a part of the annual Midwinter Conference. Thank you for your years of dedicated service to safety in our industry. You are shining examples of excellence to others.
2011 Professional Drivers
Kevin E. Black FTC Transportation, Inc.
Gregory Cotten Maxum Petroleum
Raymond Donald John Christner Trucking
David L. Elliott OTL - UPT
Raymond Emory OTL-UPT
Michael A. Giannetta John Christner Trucking
We Offer Much More Than Insurance • Experienced Trucking Personnel • Driver Recruiting and Retention • Driver Screening and Evaluation • Driver Wellness • 24/7 Claim Support • Responsive Customer Service • Accident Investigation • Claim subrogation • Safety & Loss Prevention • FMCSA Compliance
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1-800-833-2015 www.burnettins.com
For over 27 years, insuring trucks has been our business at Burnett Insurance Corporation — our only business. We see things from the trucker’s perspective because we’ve been there ourselves. Our experience gives us a special understanding for the unique challenges drivers face on the road today. It’s a unique insight into the business that keeps America moving — and it translates into superior service for our customers. Little Rock, Arkansas R I S K E VA L U AT I O N • L O S S C O N T R O L • C L A I M S M A N A G E M E N T • I N S U R A N C E P L A C E M E N T
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THE AROUND THE CLOCK FREIGHTLINER GROUP, LLC
DUTY?
OKLAHOMA CITY FREIGHTLINER • WESTERN STAR 877.621.0428 LOCAL: 405.942.8827 5301 I-40 WEST / OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73128
TULSA FREIGHTLINER • WESTERN STAR 888.395.9947 LOCAL: 918.445.5300 5104 WEST 60TH STREET / TULSA, OK 74107
ARDMORE FREIGHTLINER • WESTERN STAR 580.223.2233 2707 REFINERY ROAD / ARDMORE, OK 73401
MUSKOGEE FREIGHTLINER • WESTERN STAR 918.687.0133 2950 HIGHWAY 69 NORTH / MUSKOGEE, OK 74401
Enjoy worry-free compliance …
Put your labor law postings on autopilot
Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Notice and Instruction to Employers and Employees
Your Rights Under the Oklahoma Minimum Wage Act 40 O.S. § 197.1 et seq.
WHO IS AN EMPLOYEE? 40 O.S. § 197.4(e) - “Employee” includes any individual employed by an employer but shall not include: An individual employed on a farm, in the employ of any person, in connection with the cultivation of the soil, or in connection with raising or harvesting any agricultural commodity, including raising, shearing, feeding, caring for, training, and management of livestock, bees, poultry, and furbearing animals and wildlife, or in the employ of the owner or tenant or other operator of a farm in connection with the operation, management, conservation, improvement, or maintenance of such farm and its tools and equipment;
(2)
Any individual employed in domestic service in or about a private home;
(3)
Any individual employed by the United States government;
(4)
Any individual working as a volunteer in a charitable, religious or other nonprofit organization;
Mediation is available to address certain workers’ compensation disputes.
Any employee of any employer who is subject to the provisions of any Federal Fair Labor Standards Act or to any Federal Wage and Hour Law now in effect or enacted hereafter; and who is paying the minimum wage under the provisions of this act;
(8)
Any employee employed in a bona fide executive, administrative or professional capacity, or in the capacity of outside salesman; Any person employed as part-time employee not on permanent status. A part-time employee is defined as an employee who is employed less than twenty-five (25) hours a week;
(11) Any individual employed in a feedstore operated primarily for the benefit and use of farmers and ranchers; or (12) Any individual working as a reserve force deputy sheriff.
WHO IS AN EMPLOYER? 40 O.S. § 197.4(d) - “Employer” means any individual, partnership, association, corporation, business trust, or any person or group of persons, hiring more than ten full-time employees or equivalent at any one location or place of business; provided, however, if an employer has less than ten full-time employees or equivalent at any one location or place of business but does a gross business of more than One Hundred Thousand Dollars ($100,000.00) annually, said employer shall not be exempt under the provisions of this act. This act shall not apply to employers subject to the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, as amended, and who are paying the minimum wage under the provisions of said act, nor to employers whose employees are exempt.
HOW DO UNIFORMS AFFECT MINIMUM WAGE?
You’ll even get access to our online Support Center, where you can easily stay current with the latest labor law news, track poster shipments, and access PDF poster images for quick reference.
40 O.S. § 197.17 - Business establishments that furnish uniforms to their employees may take credit against the minimum wage in an amount equal to the reasonable cost of furnishing the uniforms.
WHAT IS THE CIVIL PENALTY FOR VIOLATIONS? 40 O.S. § 197.8 - The Commissioner, after investigation, shall promptly make his finding in writing as to whether or not additional wages are due the employee. If the Commissioner finds that additional wages are due, ten percent (10%) of such amount due shall be added as penalty for such wage deficiency. The Commissioner shall mail said findings to the employer and to the employee by certified mail. Payment by the employer and acceptance by the employee of the amount so determined by the Commissioner shall absolve the employer of any further liability to the employee with respect to wages claimed by the employee for the period he was employed by the employer. 40 O.S. § 197.9 - Any employer who is found by a court of competent jurisdiction to have paid an employee wages less than those to which such employee is entitled, under or by virtue of this act, shall be liable to such employee for double the full amount of such wages, less any amount actually paid to such employee by the employer, and for court costs, and such reasonable attorney fees as may be allowed by the court, which in no case shall be less than One Hundred Dollars ($100.00). Any agreement between such employee and the employer to work for less than such wage rate shall be no defense to such action.
PC 53627
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Employer’s Responsibilities The employer must provide employees with immediate first aid, medical, diagnostic, surgical and any other like services that are reasonable and necessary. This applies to care for all injuries and illnesses arising out of and in the course of employment, regardless of their character. If an employee is injured and this results in the loss of time beyond his/her shift, or requires medical attention away from the work site (fatal or otherwise), the employer MUST file a Form 2 with the Workers’ Compensation Court within ten (10) days of the notice of injury. The employer must provide a copy of the Form 2 to the employer's workers' compensation insurance carrier, if any. No agreement by any employee to pay any portion of premiums paid by the employer to maintain or carry compensation insurance as required by law shall be valid. Any employer who deducts money from the wages or salary of any employee for that purpose who is entitled to workers' compensation shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. If the employer has actual notice of an undisputed injury and the employer's insurance carrier fails to commence weekly temporary total disability benefit payments due within the time provided by law, the insurer shall pay to the employee a penalty of fifteen percent (15%) of the unpaid or delayed weekly benefits. No agreement by any employee to waive workers’ compensation rights and benefits shall be valid. Any person who commits workers’ compensation fraud, upon conviction, shall be guilty of a felony. Workers’ Compensation Court
WHAT IS THE CRIMINAL PENALTY FOR VIOLATIONS?
1915 North Stiles Avenue Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105-4918
40 O.S. § 197.13 - Any employer, or the officer or agent of any corporation, who pays or agrees to pay to any employee less than the rate of compensation required by this act, upon conviction, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be punished by a fine of not more than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00), or by imprisonment in the county jail for not more than six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
Oklahoma Department of Labor
Mark Costello
Commissioner of Labor
State Minimum Wage $7.25 per hour Effective July 24, 2009
Tele. 405-522-8600 (OKC) • 918-581-2714 (TU) • In-State Toll Free 800-522-8210 Web Site • www.owcc.state.ok.us This notice must be posted and maintained by the employer in one or more conspicuous places.
NOTICE:
State law requires employers to display this poster in such a manner so as to be accessible to all employees in each establishment under the control of the employer. It shall be unlawful to employ workers in any industry or occupation within the State of Oklahoma under conditions of labor detrimental to their health or morals and it shall be unlawful to employ workers in any industry within the State of Oklahoma at wages which are not adequate for their maintenance. Except as otherwise provided in the Oklahoma Minimum Wage Act, no employer within the State of Oklahoma shall pay any employee a wage of less than the current federal minimum wage for all hours worked.
PROHIBITS DISCRIMINATION IN EMPLOYMENT BECAUSE OF RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, NATIONAL ORIGIN, DISABILITY, AGE OR SEX1 If you are an employee, or an applicant for employment, and feel that because of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age or sex you have been discriminated against with respect to: qualifications, hire, discharge, recall, layoff, promotion, transfer, compensation, conditions, terms, privileges or responsibilities of employment, or sexual harassment, and wish to file or discuss the filing of a complaint contact the OKLAHOMA HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Oklahoma City Office Jim Thorpe Office Building, Room 480 2101 North Lincoln Boulevard (405) 521-2360 • 521-3441 • 521-4028 • 1-888-456-2558
Notice to Employers / Employees Your state has its own minimum wage law which requires posting a notice regarding the aspects of that law. Employers are still required to post the Federal Minimum Wage notice from the U. S. Dept. of Labor Fair Labor Standards Act in addition to this state posting. According to the Dept. of Labor; where Federal and state law have different minimum wage rates, the higher standard applies. This Posting is for Informational Purposes Only
NOTICE TO EMPLOYERS:
Tulsa Field Office Robert S. Kerr Office Building 440 South Houston, Room 302 (918) 581-2733 • 1-888-456-2006 Contacting the Human Rights Commission, whether or not you file a complaint, does not conflict with or affect any other rights you may have including appeal to the Oklahoma Merit Protection, the State Affirmative Action Officer or internal grievance procedure. However, regardless of any other action you may take, the filing of a complaint with the Human Rights Commission must be done within 180 days after the alleged discriminatory act(s) took place. Title 25, Oklahoma Statutes, Section 1302
1
Compliance C0811 Date 08/2011 • 0911
It is required by Sec. 2-502 of the Oklahoma Employment Security Act that you shall post and maintain the poster (OES-44) in places readily accessible to your employees. You may obtain this form from the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission at (405) 557-7138 or by going online at www.oesc.ok.gov.
Call 800-327-6868 Visit jjkeller.com/53627
This Posting is for Informational Purposes Only
08/11
OKLAHOMA LAW
3017 N. Stiles, Suite 100, Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Telephone 405-521-6100 Fax 405-521-6018 www.labor.ok.gov 440 S. Houston, Suite 300, Tulsa, OK 74127-8920 Telephone 918-581-2400 Fax 918-581-2431 Toll-Free 1-888-269-5353
Join the thousands of satisfied customers who rely on us for prompt, courteous service.
You Benefit From This Partnership A portion of the revenue from your purchase supports your State Trucking Association.
Signature of Employer
Insurer & Insurer Phone Number
Employee’s Responsibilities In Case of Work Related Injury If accidentally injured or affected by cumulative trauma or an occupational disease arising out of and in the course of employment, however slight, the employee should notify the employer immediately. If this employer is a partnership, notice shall be given to any partner. If this employer is a corporation, notice shall be given to any agent or officer of the corporation upon whom legal process may be served. Notice shall also be given to the person in charge of business at the location of operations where the injury occurred. Unless notice is given to the employer or medical treatment is rendered within thirty (30) days of injury, any claim for compensation may be forever barred. If accidentally injured or affected by cumulative trauma or an occupational disease, the employee may file a claim for compensation with the Workers' Compensation Court. Forms to file a compensation claim should be furnished by this employer and also are available from the Workers’ Compensation Court. The forms are posted on the Court’s web site, www.owcc.state.ok.us/court_forms.htm. A claim for compensation must be filed with the Court within the time specified by law, or be forever barred. Based on law effective August 26, 2011, a claim for compensation for any accidental injury or death must be filed with the Court within two (2) years from the date of the accidental injury or death; a claim for compensation for occupational disease must be filed within two (2) years of either the last hazardous exposure or from the date the disease first became manifest, which ever last occurred; and a claim for compensation for cumulative trauma must be filed within two (2) years of when the employee was last employed by the employer. Provided, claims may be filed within two (2) years from the date of the last medical treatment authorized by the employer or payment of any compensation or remuneration paid in lieu of compensation. Any person receiving temporary disability benefits from an employer or the employer's insurance carrier shall within seven (7) days report in writing to the employer or insurance carrier any change in a material fact or the amount of income the employee is receiving or any change in the employee’s employment status, occurring during the period of receipt of such benefits.
© 2011 ALLC
590
SP-OK-E 259-OK-D
To reorder:
(7)
jjkeller.com
Any newspaper vendor or carrier; Any employee of any carrier subject to regulation by Part I of the Interstate Commerce Act;
(10) Any person who is less than eighteen (18) years of age and is not a high school graduate or a graduate of a vocational training program, and any person who is less than twenty-two (22) years of age and who is a student regularly enrolled in a high school, college, university or vocational training program;
With J. J. Keller’s State and Federal Labor Law Poster Kit and Update Service, you’ll have the required notices you need, PLUS you’ll automatically get newposters whenever there’s a mandatory regulatory change. Just put the new posters up, and you’re done. Given the average of 40 state labor law changes each year, that could be a real timesaver!
The Oklahoma Workers' Compensation Court has a counselor (ombudsman) program to provide information to injured workers, employers, and other interested parties. For information, call 405-522-8760 or In-State Toll Free 800-522-8210.
(5) (6)
(9)
All employees of this employer who are entitled to benefits of the Workers' Compensation Code are hereby notified that this employer has complied with all rules of the Workers' Compensation Court and that this employer has secured payment of compensation for all employees and their dependents in accordance with the Code. All employees are further notified this employer will furnish first aid, medical, diagnostic, surgical and any other like services required by law as well as payments of compensation to any injured employee as provided in the Workers’ Compensation Code. Any employee who has suffered a compensable injury covered by the Workers' Compensation Code shall be entitled to vocational rehabilitation services, including retraining and job placement, if, as a result of the injury, the employee is unable to perform the same occupational duties the employee was performing prior to the injury.
800-327-6868
(1)
Printed in the United States v15
2011 Professional Drivers
Henry Howell Triad Transport
Pamela J. Hoydt John Christner Trucking
Anthony D. Lewis John Christner Trucking
Chuck Peters OTL - UPT
Joe Walker Frontier Express, Inc.
Charles Williams Frontier Express, Inc.
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2011 Oklahoma Driver of the Year
Gregory Cotten began his pursuit for Professional Driver in 1978. His career started with operating tank trucks, then he moved up to rig-up trucks, boom trucks, and then finally tankers, which he holds as a preference. However, in his role at Maxum Petroleum, he continues to utilize a variety of equipment to deliver petroleum products. From 1993 to 1995, he worked for Hamm and Phillips. He began his career with Simons Petroleum in 1995. He continued his professional service for Simons when it was acquired by Maxum Petroleum in April 2004. Since his career with Simons Petroleum, he has acquired over 1,603,000 accident-free driving miles. In his 29 years of drivFMCSA Administrator, Anne Ferro, Margie Cotten, Gregory Cotten and OSMC ing experience, he has accrued over Chairman, Louis Thompson, CDS, Beaver Express. 2.6 million miles without an accident, both including preventable and DOT recordable. In addition, he promotes highway safety by training newly hired tanker drivers, thus sharing his successful career experiences. The Oklahoma Trucking Association has recognized Cotten as a Professional Driver eight times. He competed in the Truck Driving Championship competitions in 2003 and 2004. Whether on the course, or on the road, his commitment to safety is apparent. In his free time, Cotten enjoys spending time with his family, including wife Margie, daughter Leighann and son Kodie. He is closely involved not only with his children’s school activities, but various activities in the community as well. Additional hobbies, include fishing and camping, which allow him to incorporate more time with his family.
*Cover and Award photography by Carrie Strong, carriestrong.com
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Fleet Safety Over three hundred people attended the 2012 Fleet Safety Awards Banquet at the Crowne Plaza in Oklahoma City. The banquet, part of the OTA’s annual Midwinter conference, is a celebration of safety. The OTA and OSMC present the Fleet Safety Awards, sponsored by Great West Casualty Company. The OTA and OSMC also celebrate drivers who have reached one million or more accident-free miles, and the twelve Oklahoma Professional Drivers are introduced, one of which is selected as Driver of the Year.
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Awards Special guest FMCSA Administrator, Anne Ferro, was the keynote speaker at this year’s banquet. The OTA would like to thank this year’s banquet sponsors for making this event possible: The Around the Clock Freightliner Group, LLC, Bruckner Truck Sales, Inc., Hamm & Phillips Service Company, Inc., Maxum Petroleum, Oklahoma City Freightliner * Western Star, Tulsa Freightliner * Western Star, and United Parcel Service.
35
Irregular Route - Under One Million Miles
FTC Transportation
Maxum Petroleum
Niles Transportation
Irregular Route - One to Five Million Miles
Triad Transport, Inc.
Advance Food Company, Inc.
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Glass TI, LLC
Irregular Route - Over Five Million Miles
Miller Truck Lines, LLC
ABF Freight System, Inc.
Hamm & Phillips Service Company, Inc.
Specializing in Battery Removal and Recycling Members of OTA since 1988
Madewell & Madewell, Inc., since 1953 405.399.2201 • Jones, OK 37
Regular Route - One to Five Million Miles
The Waggoners Trucking
Regular Route - Over Five Million Miles
Con-Way Freight
United Parcel Service
Beaver Express Service, LLC
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Petroleum - Under One Million Miles
Hoffmeier, Inc.
Petroleum - One to Five Million Miles
Maxum Petroleum
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Petroleum - Over Five Million Miles
Oklahoma Tank Lines - United Petroleum Transports
Commercial Auto & Trucking Using an Admitted Market - Nationwide Must have 11 Units Minimum Broad Class Codes • Broad Coverage Commercial Auto • • • •
Local, Intermediate & Long Haul Dump Trucks Agricultural Haulers General Freight
• Dry Van Fleets • Oversized Loads • Sand/Gravel Haulers
• Moving Storage • Special Riggers • Fuel Haulers
• Flatbed Haulers • Cattle Haulers • Mix-In Transit
Public Auto • Taxi • Limo
• Non-Emergency Ambulance; Para-Transit • Airport & Non-Airport Shuttle Service
Submissions are desired 45-60 days in advance For additional information, please contact: Phone: 800.800.4007 Transportation@midman.com midlandsmgt.com Member of Old Republic Companies
Miscellaneous - Under One Million Miles
TTK Construction Co., Inc.
Miscellaneous - One to Five Million Miles
LuGreg Trucking, LLC
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Miscellaneous - Under One Million Miles
Groendyke Transport, Inc.
FedEx Ground
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2011 Oklahoma Safety Professional of the Year
Kimberly Gonzalez currently holds the title of Director of Safety and Human Resources for Hoffmeier, Inc., a position she has held for almost four years. She was offered the position is 2008 after almost 10 years of human resources experience. It is because of this experience, as well as her passion for the trucking industry, that she is being recognized as the 2011 Oklahoma Safety Professional of the Year. Gonzalez said that she fell in love with Hoffmeier, Inc. from the beginning, and loves the family atmosphere. She accredits much of what she has accomplished today to the mentorship of Kermit Hoffmeier, who founded the company in 1981. Of Hoffmeier, she said, “He has allowed me to grow and has always supported my endeavors in my attempt to save the world.” As part of her campaign to save the world, she cites goals of educating motorists, improving highway safety, and creating a vision of a safer future. Her energy and drive to create positive change is harbored steadfastly within her actions. While at Link America, she served as the Driver Services Manager where she successfully aided in the lease purchase program. While there, her honesty approach to recruiting helped to cut turnover in half, ensuring drivers with longer service, thus promoting safety through experience and longevity. It was the Chief Financial Officer, Bob Fitzgerald who encouraged her to follow him to Link America from Arrow Trucking after recognizing her talents in the field. Arrow Trucking was Gonzalez’ first experience in the trucking industry. She credits the company with giving her first experience in, and allowing her to fall in love with the industry. At Arrow Trucking, she started off in the log auditing department under the mentorship of Dav Turner, whom she said will always be one of her favorite mentors. Gonzalez began to take on additional duties and responsibilities and made her way to the safety department for Arrow. From there, she went on to take the position of Operations Manger at ProDrivers. It was there that she said her knowledge of the industry expanded under her mentor Joanne Nutter. “Joanne taught me everything about the regulations...she allowed me to get more involved in the Oklahoma Safety Management Council”, Gonzalez said. Gonzalez became an official member of the Oklahoma Safety Management Council in 2005. She had worked with the OSMC two years prior while coordinating the entrants from Arrow Trucking for the Truck Driving Championship. She believes the greatest benefit of council membership is the broad network of professionals that she can go to with any question. She said that, “the OSMC has supported me and my ‘save the world’ endeavors.” Gonzalez said she was honored to have been recognized by her peers who had taught her so much about the industry. She found it an incredible honor to have been personally handed the award by the administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Anne Ferro. “I really admire her and hope to fill her position in the future, maybe 20 years from now”, Gonzalez said. Photography by Carrie Strong, carriestrong.com
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SERVING OKLAHOMA TRUCKERS’ INSURANCE NEEDS FOR OVER 50 YEARS
(405) 236-4677 (800) 259-6122 Terri Ferrell David Ferrell Jeremy Hoegger representing
CRAWFORD PHILLIPS, INC. Stock Yards • Oklahoma City Specializing in Truck Insurance
Delivering specialized insurance programs since 1977. LEASED OPERATORS
877.260.2287
OWNER OPERATORS/FLEETS
888.888.3093
Technology & Maintenance Council
SPOTLIGHT
Homer Hogg, Senior Technical Trainer TA/Petro, presented a technician training session on HVAC Diagnostics at the March Technology Maintenance Council Meeting held at Francis Tuttle Technology Center in OKC. Focus was on eliminating rework through effective performance testing and "fixing it right the first time." Mr. Hogg emphasized that "a modern technician must use service literature to ensure error-free work." He also stressed that "technicians should not replace a part without totally understanding the root cause of the failure." Performance testing is critical before a vehicle leaves the shop. Hogg stressed the importance of locating and using manufacturer's specifications for performance testing. If specification's cannot be located for a particular vehicle he recommended collecting data from a known good vehicle as a reference for later use. The session concluded with a look at challenges technicians face in dealing with the latest HVAC technology and upcoming changes in available refrigerants. The Oklahoma Technology Maintenance Council meets monthly, alternating programs for fleet maintenance management and technicians in Oklahoma City and Tulsa. Additional programs at other locations around the state are in the planning stages. The TMC also sponsors the annual SuperTech Competition and a Fall Technology Workshop with educational sessions, a trade show, and career fair. Details on TMC events can be found on the OTA Website at www. oktrucking.org.
Matt Vanzanten, Oklahoma City CRST Service Manager, won 3rd place for the "Best Appearing Truck" in the Pinewood Big Rig Challenge at the Technology Maintenance Council's (TMC's) Annual Meeting in Tampa, FL. The competition was sponsored by TMC's Professional Technician Development Committee. Trade press editors from Commercial Carrier Journal and Transport Topics selected the winners. Fourteen entries from across the country vied for top honors as "Fastest" and "Best Appearing" truck.
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2011 Oklahoma Grand Trophy
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The 2011 Grand Trophy, presented by Great West Casualty Company, was awarded to Hoffmeier, Inc. of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Hoffmeier, Inc. was founded in 1981 by Kermit Hoffmeier. Hoffmeier, Inc. services the Petroleum and Petrochemical industry.
At Left: OSMC Chairman Louis Thompson, CDS (Beaver Express), Kermit Hoffmeier, FMCSA Administrator Anne Ferro, Betsy Hoffmeier, Kimberly Gonzalez, and Scott Sullins (Great West Casualty) at the 2011 Fleet Safety Awards Banquet Below: Kimberly Gonzalez and Kermit Hoffmeier react to the win. Bottom: Kermit and Betsy Hoffmeier speak to FMCSA Administrator Anne Ferro and OSMC Chairman, Louis Thompson (Beaver Express) and Scott Sullins (Great West Casualty) about the win.
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Reception Sponsors: ACS State & Local Solutions PrePass, Great West Casualty Company, MHC Kenworth, Southern Tire Mart, Southwest Trailers & Equipment
sport) r (Groendyke Tran de an sw Ni e ev St “Brothers” Truck Line) & Ken Case (Dugan LaVern & David McCorkle
Program Sp onsors: America Tr ucking Asso ciations, Be Express Ser aver vice, LLC, Ce ntral Tech Compliance , Concepts of Oklahoma, Drivers Leg In c., al Plan, Fre d Allen Gro Limited, Gre u p , at West Ca sualty Com Groendyke p a n y Transport, , Inc., J.J. Kel & Associate l e r s, Inc., Kelw orth Truck Co., Mondic ing s Insurance , S c h n e id e r Offices, Tru Law ckers Matt er
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Midwinter Conference February 22-23 Oklahoma City
GRAND SPONSO RS Rush Tr uck Cent er T&W Ti re Mike Stone (Beaver Express) & Ken Case (Dugan Truck Line)
sors: n o p S h c n u L n Plains, r e h t u o S s Cummin ers Legal Plan, LLC, Driv al Management, nt EnvironmeTrucking, Great Glass mpany, o C y t l a u s a West C rt, Inc., o p s n a r T e k Groendy , Inc., J.J. Keller & Hoffmeier s, Inc., Madewell Associate ll, Inc., McCorkle & Madewee, Inc, Midlands Truck Lin nt Corporation Manageme
Michael & M
rs. Mayer (R
ush Truck C
enters)
Cline W Break Spon so o Associaod Agency, J rs: Lines, In tes, Inc., M . J. Keller & elt c., United Oklahoma Taon Truck Pe nk Triad Tr anspor troleum TranspLines t, Inc., U o nited E rt, ngines 51
Top 10 Donors (in alphabetical order)
ATC Freightliner Bruckner Truck Sales Hamm & Phillips Maxum Petroleum Melton Truck Lines MHC Kenworth PrePass Rush Truck Center T&W Tire UPS
htliner
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joke is ain his pper, t r e c is , Kle se, OTA d Brad Dan Ca s with Jim an Plan s al a succe Drivers Leg
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Donor Appreciation Dinner
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Miller Truck Lines Owner: James Miller & sons, Don Miller, Bobby Miller, and Jimmy Miller Founded: 1982 Location: Stroud, Oklahoma
How did it all begin? James Miller originally started off as a driver hauling crude oil for Osage Oil. In 1952, he bought his first truck and began hauling produce from Oklahoma to California. Within a few years, he had expanded to about five trucks. Then he landed a job hauling bombs to California for use in the Vietnam War. That’s when things really started to grow exponentially. The Miller Truck Lines that you know today was officially formed in 1982, headquartered in Stroud, Oklahoma. James and his sons, Don, Bobby and Jimmy, or better known as “My Three Sons” around the office, still manage and run the business today.
What is unique about your company? A lot of people stick with one thing, we haul a variety of things. We have tanks, haul asphalt, cement to use for the foundations in your home and business, a flatbed division, frozen and we still haul produce to California.
What issue is most important to your company right now? CSA 2010 and the BASICS are the biggest thing to us right now. Just keeping up with the changes, making sure everything is monitored, switching over to e-logs. It’s a big investment in the company.
What do you think the greatest benefit from being an OTA member is? I like that they always keep us up-to-date with the latest regulations. The monthly OSMC meetings are really helpful, especially when people like Steve Niswander (Groendyke) share what he’s learned in Washington with the regulatory updates. The Truck Driving Championships and the Midwinter Conference with the Fleet Safety Awards Banquet are always really enjoyable also. They are great events and the drivers really enjoy participating.
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Member Spotlight
Solutions Provider to the Transportation Industry
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24-Hour Service: 877-786-8473
www.stmtires.com Corporate Office • 529 Industrial Park Rd. Columbia, MS 39429 • (601) 424-3200
With 57 locations in 8 states and more than 1200 teammates, Southern Tire Mart is committed to being your full service tire dealer. Southern Tire Mart provides a wide array of Services to keep your Fleet on the road where it belongs. We carry only the best brands to give you the best possible service Guaranteed.
Bandag, Bridgestone, Continental, Firestone, General, Michelin, Yokohama 56