Fuel Surcharge Legislation –Mark Reddig talked to Todd Spencer about fuel surcharge legislation supported by OOIDA. The legislation is called “The TRUCC Act — Trust in Reliable Understanding of Consumer Costs,” or S.2910.

• You can read the National Call to Action concerning TRUCC here.
• You can read the OOIDA press release here.
• To read a special report on The TRUCC Act by Land Line Magazine Senior Editor Jami Jones click here.
• For tips on writing your congressman, click here.
• To call your U.S. senators about TRUCC, dial (202) 224-3121.
• To get a fax number, e-mail address or street address to write your senators, call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.

Air date: April 30, 2008.

Road Law – Terry Scruton spoke with Jeff McConnell and James Mennella – who also write the “Road Law” column in Land Line Magazine – about the top legal questions OOIDA receives from truckers. If you have questions or comments regarding transportation law, you can:

• Call 1-888-276-8000;
• Fax a question to (405) 242-2040; or
• Send an e-mail.
• Or click here for more information.

Air date: April 30, 2008.

Tax Tips – Terry Scruton spoke with Howard Abrams of PBS Tax & Bookkeeping, who also writes a column in Land Line Magazine. If you have questions for PBS Tax & Bookkeeping, you can:

• Call 1-800-697-5153; or
• Visit the PBS Web site here.

Air date: April 30, 2008.

Diesel update – Terry Scruton presented an update on the price of diesel fuel and crude oil.

• To read this week’s price report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
• To check the price today through ProMiles, click here.
• To see how to compute your own fuel surcharge through OOIDA’s online guide, click here.

Air date: April 30, 2008.

Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re asking truckers to call the line to respond to this question: “Have you ever used a device or additive to increase your fuel mileage? Did it work or not?” Air date: April 30, 2008.

State Update – Louisiana and Illinois - Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In Louisiana, a bill would ban large trucks from driving in the far left lane on certain roadways, while in Illinois, the state’s House has approved a bill to expand the use of red light cameras.

• To read about more legislation in Louisiana, click here.
• To read about more legislation in Illinois, click here.

Air date: April 30, 2008.

From the Land Line Now Blog: A matter of clarification - Mark Reddig has written a response to recent comments by radio host Kevin Rutherford - and extended an invitation, made earlier on the show. To read Mark’s thoughts on the Land Line Now blog, click here.

Hearing round up – Terry Scruton brought us highlights of hearings that occurred last week in Washington, DC.

• The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation discussed possible solutions to Highway Trust Fund problems. Click here to read more by Land Line Magazine.
• The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee examined the future of freight movement in the U.S. You can read more by Land Line Magazine here.

Air date: April 29, 2008.

Fuel Surcharge Legislation – During today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig talked about fuel surcharge legislation supported by OOIDA. The legislation is called “The TRUCC Act — Trust in Reliable Understanding of Consumer Costs,” or S.2910.

• You can read the National Call to Action concerning TRUCC here.
• You can read the OOIDA press release here.
• To read a special report on The TRUCC Act by Land Line Magazine Senior Editor Jami Jones click here.
• For tips on writing your congressman, click here.
• To call your U.S. senators about TRUCC, dial (202) 224-3121.
• To get a fax number, e-mail address or street address to write your senators, call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.

Air date: April 29, 2008.

Protest and Fuel Surcharge Legislation – Mark Reddig spoke to OOIDA’s Rod Nofziger about the fuel price protest in Washington, DC, and fuel surcharge legislation supported by OOIDA. The legislation is called “The TRUCC Act — Trust in Reliable Understanding of Consumer Costs,” or S.2910.

• You can read the National Call to Action concerning TRUCC here.
• You can read the OOIDA press release here.
• To read a special report on The TRUCC Act by Land Line Magazine Senior Editor Jami Jones click here.
• You can read more about the protest by Land Line Magazine staff writer Clarissa Kell-Holland here.
• For tips on writing your congressman, click here.
• To call your U.S. senators about TRUCC, dial (202) 224-3121.
• To get a fax number, e-mail address or street address to write your senators, call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.

Air date: April 28, 2008.

Biofuel – Reed Black spoke with several people concerning the pros and cons of ethanol. Below are several links to learn more.

• You can go to The Heritage Foundation Web site here and read what Ben Lieberman has to say.
• You can read what Michael Grundwald has to say on the Time Web site here.
• You can read more by reporter Steve Everly of The Kansas City Star here.
• You can visit the American Coalition for Ethanol Web site here.

Air date: April 28, 2008.

Truck Insurance – Senior Correspondent Terry Scruton talked with Ed Briley of OOIDA’s Truck Insurance Customer Service Department about the department’s new Web site.

• You can visit the new OOIDA Truck Insurance Web site here.
• If you have a question about truck insurance, you can call 1-800-715-9369.
• If you have a question about truck insurance you’d like answered on the air – you can call our comment line at 1-800-324-6856.

Air date: April 28, 2008.

OOIDA National Call to Action – Fuel Surcharge Legislation – OOIDA has issued a National Call to Action concerning fuel surcharge legislation supported by OOIDA that has been introduced in Congress. The legislation is called “The TRUCC Act — Trust in Reliable Understanding of Consumer Costs.” S. 2910 – the bill number given to The TRUCC Act – would include a mandatory pass-through of fuel surcharges and mandatory disclosure of all fuel surcharge information by brokers, carriers and anyone else involved in the transaction. The association is encouraging all truckers to call both U.S. senators to support the legislation.

• You can read the National Call to Action concerning TRUCC here.
• You can read the OOIDA press release here.
• To read a Special Report by Land Line Magazine Senior Editor Jami Jones click here.
• For tips on writing your congressman, click here.
• To call any member of Congress, dial (202) 224-3121.
• To get a fax number, e-mail address or street address to write your congressman, call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.
• You can read a letter from OOIDA President Jim Johnston to President Bush here.

Air date: April 25, 2008.

Driver Training Proposal – Mark Reddig spoke with OOIDA’s Rick Craig about the driver training rulemaking. The FMCSA has extended the deadline to file comments on the proposed driver training rule until May 23, 2008. The Docket number for the proposed rule is FMCSA-2007-27748.

• You can file comments online here.
• You can fax your comments – with the docket number listed above - to (202) 493-2251
• You can read a special report by Land Line Magazine Senior Editor Jami Jones here.

Air date: April 25, 2008.

Algae diesel – During today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig mentioned an article on growing algae that can be turned into biofuels. To read the article, click here. Air date: April 25, 2008.

Calendar – For upcoming truck shows, click here to read Land Line Magazine’s industry calendar. Air date: April 25, 2008.

Operation Trucker Check – Land Line Magazine Senior Editor Jami Jones shared her thoughts on Oregon’s Operation Trucker Check results. To read Jami’s blog, click here. Air date: April 25, 2008.

The Spirit –Howard and Pam Hart have OOIDA’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the 75 Chrome Shop Truck Show in Wildwood, FL. The show will take place at Exit 329 off Interstate 75. To follow the Spirit’s schedule online, click here. Air date: April 25, 2008.

OOIDA NASCAR simulator – Ron Mermis will have the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the Oklahoma City Petro through Saturday. The Petro is located off I-40 at Martin Luther King Blvd., or can be reached by Exit 127 off I-35. Air date: April 25, 2008.

TRUCC – Fuel surcharge legislation supported by OOIDA has been introduced in Congress. The legislation is called “The TRUCC Act — Truthful Reliable Understanding of Consumer Costs.” TRUCC would include a mandatory pass-through of fuel surcharges and mandatory disclosure of all fuel surcharge information by brokers, carriers and anyone else involved in the transaction. The association is encouraging all truckers to call both U.S. senators to support the legislation.

• You can read the OOIDA Press Release here.
• To read a Special Report by Land Line Magazine Senior Editor Jami Jones, click here.
• For tips on writing your congressman, click here.
• To call any member of Congress, dial (202) 224-3121.
• To get a fax number, e-mail address or street address to write your congressman, call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.
• You can read a letter from OOIDA President Jim Johnston to President Bush here.
• You can read a National Call to Action concerning fuel price here.

Air date: April 24, 2008.

Truckers for Troops – Reed Black spoke with several drivers serving in Iraq who are receiving care packages made possible by OOIDA’s Truckers for Troops Telethon. OOIDA is soliciting personal letters to be sent to our soldiers overseas as part of the association’s care packages. You can mail them to us at OOIDA Truckers for Troops, PO Box 1,000, Grain Valley, MO, 64029, c/o Sherry Murry, or e-mail them to sherry_murry@ooida.com. Air date: April 24, 2008.

State update – Maine and Missouri – Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In Maine, a new law intends to reduce idling of commercial vehicles, while in Missouri, a proposed amendment to the state’s constitution would increase funding for highways without raising tax rates.

• To read about more legislation in Maine, click here.
• To read about more legislation in Missouri, click here.

Air date: April 24, 2008.

The Spirit – Starting Friday, Howard and Pam Hart will have OOIDA’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the 75 Chrome Shop Truck Show in Wildwood, FL. The show will take place at Exit 329 off Interstate 75. To follow the Spirit’s schedule online, click here. Air date: April 24, 2008.

OOIDA NASCAR simulator – Ron Mermis will have the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the Oklahoma City Petro through Saturday. The Petro is located off I-40 at Martin Luther King Blvd., or can be reached by Exit 127 off I-35. Air date: April 24, 2008.

It’s Your Business – Terry Scruton spoke with Donna Ryun, OOIDA’s communications director and Land Line Magazine columnist, about non-compete contracts. To send Donna a question, click here. Air date: April 23, 2008.

Diabetic help – Terry Scruton spoke with dietitian Debbie Latham about working exercise into a diabetic driver’s daily routine. You can visit Debbie’s Web site here. Air date: April 23, 2008.

Diesel update – Terry Scruton presented an update on the price of diesel fuel and crude oil.

• To read this week’s price report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
• To check the price today through ProMiles, click here.
• To see how to compute your own fuel surcharge through OOIDA’s online guide, click here.

Air date: April 23, 2008.

Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re asking truckers to call the line to respond to this question: “What do you think is the solution to our energy problems in this country?” Air date: April 23, 2008.

Commission Report Hearing – Mark Reddig spoke with Mike Joyce about a Senate subcommittee hearing that was held Tuesday, April 22, concerning the National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Study Commission report. To read the final report in its entirety, click here. Air date: April 23, 2008.

Roadside memorials – During today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig mentioned a bill on roadside memorials in Missouri by state Rep. Bill Deeken. The bill is HB1406, to read more, click here. Air date: April 17, 2008.

The Spirit - Starting Friday, Howard and Pam Hart will have OOIDA’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the 75 Chrome Shop Truck Show in Wildwood, FL. The show will take place at Exit 329 off Interstate 75. To follow the Spirit’s schedule online, click here. Air date: April 23, 2008.

OOIDA NASCAR simulator - Ron Mermis will have the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the Oklahoma City Petro through Saturday. The Petro is located off I-40 at Martin Luther King Blvd., or can be reached by Exit 127 off I-35. Air date: April 23, 2008.

Member Benefits - OOIDA offers members discounts and rebates on more than 30 different product lines, from computers, to APUs, to new and used trucks. For more information, click here. Air date: April 23, 2008.

Senate hearing – Terry Scruton brought us highlights of a Senate subcommittee hearing on transportation. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: April 22, 2008.

State Update- Colorado and New Jersey-Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. They discussed a bill in Colorado that could add tolls along a stretch of Interstate 70, and a measure in New Jersey that would get tough with drivers who fail to clear snow and ice off their vehicles.

• To read about more legislation in Colorado, click here.
• To read about more legislation in New Jersey, click here.

Air date: April 22, 2008.

The Spirit - Starting Friday, Howard and Pam Hart will have OOIDA’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the 75 Chrome Shop Truck Show in Wildwood, FL. The show will take place at Exit 329 off Interstate 75. To view The Spirit’s schedule, click here. Air date: April 22, 2008.

OOIDA NASCAR simulator - Ron Mermis will have the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the Oklahoma City Petro through Saturday. The Petro is located off I-40 at Martin Luther King Blvd., or can be reached by Exit 127 off I-35. Air date: April 22, 2008.

Speaking out on Speed Limiters – OOIDA’s Laura O’Neill spoke about speed limiters. The association is encouraging truckers to call or write the top elected officials in the Canadian province of Ontario to express their opinion about requiring speed limiters. Here’s the contact information:

The Honorable Dalton McGuinty
Premier of Ontario
Ferguson Block, 12th Floor
77 Wellesley St W
Toronto ON M7A1N3
Canada
Phone: (416) 325-1941.

The Honorable Jim Bradley
Ontario Minister of Transportation
Ferguson Block
77 Wellesley St W, 3rd Floor
Toronto ON M7A1Z8
Canada
Phone: (416) 327-9200

In addition, you can take part though any of these avenues:

• If you live in Ontario, and want to call your lawmakers, you can get contact information from the Membership Department here at OOIDA at 1-800-444-5791.
• OOIDA is looking for volunteers to help spread the word in Ontario. To help, call the Membership Department at the same number, 1-800-444-5791.
• If you have some interesting stories related to speed limiters that you think should be related to elected officials in Ontario, send an e-mail here.
• You are urged to sign a petition against government-mandated speed limiters here;
• U.S. truckers can let their elected representatives know how the proposal could affect them by calling the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121;

Air date: April 22, 2008.

Cost of Operation – Mark Reddig spoke with Jami Jones, senior editor of Land Line Magazine, and Kip Hough of OOIDA’s Member Assistance Department about knowing your cost of operation. Below are several links to assist you:

• An online guidebook that leads you through figuring your cost of operation can be found here.
• A spreadsheet you can use online can be found here. (This requires no additional software on your computer.)
• A worksheet you can download on your computer and modify can be found here. (Please note, this is an Excel program and you must have Excel on your computer to download, you can work off the spreadsheet without downloading it.)
• For more information, check out the upcoming May issue of Land Line Magazine.

Air date: April 21, 2008.

Fuel surcharge legislation – During today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig talked about legislation OOIDA is working to get introduced in Congress that would include a mandatory pass through of fuel surcharges and mandatory disclosure of all fuel surcharge information by brokers, carriers and anyone else involved in the transaction. The association is encouraging all truckers to call their representative in the U.S. House and both U.S. senators to ask for the legislation.

• For tips on writing your congressman, click here.
• To call any member of Congress, dial (202) 224-3121.
• To get a fax number, e-mail address or street address to write your congressman, call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.
• You can read a letter from OOIDA President Jim Johnston to President Bush here.
• You can read a National Call to Action concerning fuel price here.

Air date: April 21, 2008.

Roses & Razzberries – Terry Scruton and Jami Jones offered up some of our patented Roses & Razzberries. If you are an OOIDA member and want to offer up your own rose or razzberry for our consideration, you can do it on the Internet through the Members Only section of our Web site. Just click here. Air date: April 21, 2008.

The Spirit - Starting Friday, Howard and Pam Hart will have OOIDA’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the 75 Chrome Shop Truck Show in Wildwood, FL. The show will take place at Exit 329 off Interstate 75. Air date: April 21, 2008.

OOIDA NASCAR simulator - Ron Mermis will have the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the Oklahoma City Petro through Saturday. The Petro is located off I-40 at Martin Luther King Blvd., or can be reached by Exit 127 off I-35. Air date: April 21, 2008.

Seattle variable speed limits – Reed Black spoke about Seattle planning to install a high-tech, variable speed limit system on a stretch of I-5. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: April 18, 2008.

Carbon footprint driving technology – Reed Black spoke about a study that is under way to see whether driving habits affect carbon footprints. To learn more from the company that developed the software, Enviance, you can visit their Web site here. Air date: April 18, 2008.

Good samaritan laws - Stephen Petit discussed good samaritan laws with OOIDA attorney Travis Ginest. You can view Stephen Petit’s Web site here. Air date: April 18, 2008.

Fuel Surcharge Legislation – Mark Reddig spoke with Rod Nofziger about legislation OOIDA hopes to get introduced in Congress that would include a mandatory pass through of fuel surcharges and mandatory disclosure of all fuel surcharge information by brokers, carriers and anyone else involved in the transaction. The association is encouraging all truckers to call their representative in the U.S. House and both U.S. senators to ask for the legislation.

• For tips on writing your congressman, click here.
• To call any member of Congress, dial (202) 224-3121.
• To get a fax number, e-mail address or street address to write your congressman, call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.
• You can read a letter from OOIDA President Jim Johnston to President Bush here.
• You can read a National Call to Action concerning fuel price here.

Air date: April 18, 2008.

OOIDA NASCAR simulator - Ron Mermis will have the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the annual Marmon Reunion, which will take place this year at the TA in Terrell, TX. The TA is located at Exit 503 off Interstate 20. Air date: April 18, 2008.

Roadside memorials - Reed mentioned a bill on roadside memorials in Missouri by state Rep. Bill Deeken. The bill is HB1406, to read more, click here. Air date: April 17, 2008.

Burning Gold – Reed Black spoke with country artist Frank Knapp about a song about the high price of fuel. You can download the song here for a charge of .99 cents. Air date: April 17, 2008.

Letters to the Troops –Reed Black played a call from an OOIDA member who helped servicemen and women received care packages from OOIDA Truckers for Troops. OOIDA is soliciting personal letters to be sent to our soldiers overseas as part of OOIDA’s care packages. You can mail them to us at OOIDA Truckers for Troops, PO Box 1,000, Grain Valley, MO, 64029, c/o Sherry Murry, or e-mail them to sherry_murry@ooida.com. Air date: April 17, 2008.

State Update - Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In Virginia, a new law is intended to give state legislators more power over whether truckers are charged tolls for using Interstate 81. To read about more legislation in Virginia, click here. Air date: April 17, 2008.

IdleAire – In today’s listener comment line, Mark Reddig mentioned IdleAire’s financial troubles. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: April 17, 2008.

Cost of Operation – In today’s listener comment line, Mark Reddig about knowing your cost of operation. Below are several links to assist you:

• An online guidebook that leads you through figuring your cost of operation can be found here.
• A spreadsheet you can use online can be found here. (This requires no additional software on your computer.)
• A worksheet you can download on your computer and modify can be found here. (Please note, this is an Excel program and you must have Excel on your computer to download, you can work off the spreadsheet without downloading it.)
• For more information, check out the upcoming May issue of Land Line Magazine.

Air date: April 17, 2008.

Pennsylvania Turnpike proposed lease – Mark Reddig spoke with Mike Joyce, Senior Government Affairs Representative, regarding Gov. Ed Rendell’s proposed lease of the Turnpike. To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: April 17, 2008.

OOIDA NASCAR simulator - Starting today, Ron Mermis will bring the OOIDA NASCAR simulator to the annual Marmon Reunion, which will take place this year at the TA in Terrell, TX. The TA is located at Exit 503 off Interstate 20. Air date: April 17, 2008.

Truckers’ Health– Terry Scruton talked with Dr. John McElligott of the Professional Drivers Medical Depots about health issues faced by truckers, such as cholesterol. To visit PDMD’s Web site, click here. Air date: April 16, 2008.

Truck tires – Terry Scruton recently talked with Guy Wallenga, engineering manager for Bridgestone Firestone truck tires, about balancing the demand for higher fuel mileage with the demand for more aggressive tire tread. If you have a question for Guy or any of the other engineers at Bridgestone Firestone, click here. Air date: April 16, 2008.

Diesel update – Terry Scruton presented an update on the price of diesel fuel and crude oil.

• To read this week’s price report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
• To check the price today through ProMiles, click here.
• To see how to compute your own fuel surcharge through OOIDA’s online guide, click here.

Air date: April 16, 2008.

Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re asking truckers to call the line to respond to this question: “Do you think protests, shutdowns, etc. are effective or are they just a waste of time?” Air date: April 16, 2008.

Speaking out on Speed Limiters – During today’s comment line, Mark Reddig spoke about speed limiters. The association is encouraging truckers to call or write the top elected officials in the Canadian province of Ontario to express their opinion about requiring speed limiters. Here’s the contact information:

The Honorable Dalton McGuinty
Premier of Ontario
Ferguson Block, 12th Floor
77 Wellesley St W
Toronto ON M7A1N3
Canada
Phone: (416) 325-1941.

The Honorable Jim Bradley
Ontario Minister of Transportation
Ferguson Block
77 Wellesley St W, 3rd Floor
Toronto ON M7A1Z8
Canada
Phone: (416) 327-9200

In addition, you can take part though any of these avenues:

• U.S. truckers can let their elected representatives know how the proposal could affect them by calling the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121;
• OOIDA is looking for volunteers to help spread the word in Ontario. To help, call the Membership Department here at OOIDA at 1-800-444-5791.
• You are urged to sign a petition against government-mandated speed limiters here;

Air date: April 16, 2008.

OOIDA NASCAR simulator - Starting Thursday, Ron Mermis will bring the OOIDA NASCAR simulator to the annual Marmon Reunion, which will take place this year at the TA in Terrell, TX. The TA is located at Exit 503 off Interstate 20. Air date: April 16, 2008.

Colorado Call to Action – OOIDA has issued a Call to Action concerning a bill in Colorado that could add tolls to Interstate 70.

• You can read the Colorado Call to Action here.
• You can read about other legislation in Colorado here.

Air date: April 15, 2008.

The Price of Fuel – Mark Reddig talked with Rod Nofziger of OOIDA’s Washington, DC, office about the effect of fuel prices on trucking and efforts to do something about it in Congress. Everyone is urged to contact their lawmakers and convey to them how the fuel prices are impacting you.

• You can read a National Call to Action on the topic here.
• For tips on contacting your lawmakers, click here.
• To call any member of Congress, dial (202) 224-3121.
• To get a fax number, e-mail address or street address to write your congressman, call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.

Air date: April 15, 2008.

It’s Your Business – Terry Scruton spoke with Donna Ryun, OOIDA’s communications director and Land Line Magazine columnist, about truckside advertising. To send Donna a question, click here. Air date: April 15, 2008.

State Update – Missouri and New Jersey - Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble about a bill in Missouri that would encourage more public-private agreements for transportation projects, and a measure in New Jersey that would allow sheriffs to weigh, measure and inspect commercial vehicles.

• To read about more legislation in Missouri, click here.
• To read about more legislation in New Jersey, click here.

Air date: April 15, 2008.

Join the Call to Action Team – You can take a more active role in trucking issues by joining the OOIDA Call to Action list. To sign up, just send an e-mail with your name, membership number and current e-mail address here. Air date: March 4, 2008.

OOIDA NASCAR simulator - Ron Mermis has the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the Petro Truck Stop in Shreveport, LA, located at Exit 8 off Interstate 20. And starting Thursday, he’ll bring the simulator to the annual Marmon Reunion, which will take place this year at the TA in Terrell, TX. That’s located at Exit 503 off I-20. Air date: April 15, 2008.

Cost of Operation – Mark Reddig spoke with Jami Jones, Senior Editor of Land Line Magazine, and Kip Hough of OOIDA’s Member Assistance Department about knowing your cost of operation. Below are several links to assist you:

• An online guidebook that leads you through figuring your cost of operation can be found here.
• A spreadsheet you can use online can be found here. (This requires no additional software on your computer.)
• A worksheet you can download on your computer and modify can be found here. (Please note, this is an Excel program and you must have Excel on your computer to download, you can work off the spreadsheet without downloading it.)
• For more information, check out the upcoming May issue of Land Line Magazine.

Air date: April 14, 2008.

Road Law – Reed Black spoke with Jeff McConnell and James Mennella – who also write the “Road Law” column in Land Line Magazine – about the top legal questions OOIDA receives from truckers. If you have questions or comments regarding transportation law, you can:

• Call 1-888-276-8000;
  Fax a question to (405) 242-2040; or
• Send an e-mail.
• Or click here for more information.

Air date: April 14, 2008.

Member offer - OOIDA member Gordon W. Wrinn Sr. is sponsoring the membership cost for 40 people to join OOIDA. To take part, all you have to do is call our special member offer line. Just dial 1-800-324-6856, and press 3. The offer is open only to new, first-time members. Air date: April 14, 2008.

Speaking out on Speed Limiters – OOIDA’s Laura O’Neill spoke about speed limiters. The association is encouraging truckers to call or write the top elected officials in the Canadian province of Ontario to express their opinion about requiring speed limiters. Here’s the contact information:

The Honorable Dalton McGuinty
Premier of Ontario
Ferguson Block, 12th Floor
77 Wellesley St W
Toronto ON M7A1N3
Canada
Phone: (416) 325-1941.

The Honorable Jim Bradley
Ontario Minister of Transportation
Ferguson Block
77 Wellesley St W, 3rd Floor
Toronto ON M7A1Z8
Canada
Phone: (416) 327-9200

In addition, you can take part though any of these avenues:

• You are urged to sign a petition against government-mandated speed limiters here;
• U.S. truckers can let their elected representatives know how the proposal could affect them by calling the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121;
• OOIDA is looking for volunteers to help spread the word in Ontario. To help, call the Membership Department here at OOIDA at 1-800-444-5791.

Air date: April 14, 2008.

OOIDA NASCAR simulator - Ron Mermis has the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the Petro Truck Stop in Shreveport, LA, located at Exit 8 off Interstate 20. And starting Thursday, he’ll bring the simulator to the annual Marmon Reunion, which will take place this year at the TA in Terrell, TX. That’s located at Exit 503 off I-20. Air date: April 14, 2008.

OOIDA addresses California Ports – Mark Reddig spoke with OOIDA’s regulatory affairs specialist, Joe Rajkovacz, about his latest trip to address port officials in Los Angeles and Long Beach.

• To read a Special Report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
• You can watch a video of the Port of Los Angeles meeting here. Scroll down to the 3/20/2008 meeting and click on video.
• To read OOIDA’s comments to the ports, click here.

Air date: April 12, 2008.

Highway Canon – Reed Black reported on a project, under development, to allow law-enforcement officers to use microwave canons to stop trucks. You can visit the MAGTEC Web site here. Air date: April 11, 2008.

Staying Alert – Reed Black reported on a new form of special lighting designed to help you stay alert while driving at night. You can visit the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Web site here. Air date: April 11, 2008.

Letters to the Troops –Reed Black spoke with a soldier home from Iraq who received care packages from OOIDA. OOIDA is soliciting personal letters to be sent to our soldiers overseas as part of OOIDA’s care packages. You can mail them to us at OOIDA Truckers for Troops, PO Box 1,000, Grain Valley, MO, 64029, c/o Sherry Murry, or e-mail them to sherry_murry@ooida.com. Air date: April 11, 2008.

John Ewing – Terry Scruton spoke with John Ewing of Truckers Helper about PC repair. For more information, check out Truckers Helper on the Web here. Air date: April 11, 2008.

The Spirit – Howard and Pam Hart have OOIDA’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro truck stop in Joplin, MO. The Petro is located at Exit 4 on Interstate 44. To follow The Spirit’s schedule, click here. Air date: April 11, 2008.

OOIDA NASCAR simulator – Ron Mermis will have the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the TA in Prescott, AR. The TA is located off of I-30 at Exit 44. Air date: April 11, 2008.

Goodyear Highway Hero – Terry Scruton spoke with the Goodyear Highway Hero nominees and their families.

• You can read more by Land Line Magazine here
• You can visit Goodyear’s Web site here.

Air date: April 10, 2008.

Pennsylvania Idling – Reed Black spoke with OOIDA’s Mike Joyce, who testified in a Pennsylvania’s House Transportation Committee hearing today concerning a bill, SB295, that would impose idling restrictions on large trucks throughout the state.

• To read the Pennsylvania Call to Action, click here.
• To read about more legislation in Pennsylvania, click here.

Air date: April 10, 2008.

State Update – Alabama and Utah - Reed Black spoke to Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble about several bills in Alabama regarding increasing fuel taxes and bonds for bridge repair and road work. Meanwhile in Utah, there is legislation to increase the speed limit on a stretch of I-15.

• To read about more legislation in Alabama, click here.
• To read about more legislation in Utah, click here.

Air date: April 10, 2008.

Truck tires – Terry Scruton recently talked to Guy Wallenga, engineering manager for Firestone/Bridgestone truck tires. If you have a question for Guy or any of the engineers at Firestone/Bridgestone, click here. Air date: April 10, 2008.

The Spirit – Howard and Pam Hart have OOIDA’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro truck stop in Joplin, MO. The Petro is located at Exit 4 on Interstate 44. To follow The Spirit’s schedule, click here. Air date: April 10, 2008.

OOIDA NASCAR simulator – Ron Mermis will have the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the TA in Prescott, AR. The TA is located off of I-30 at Exit 44. Air date: April 10, 2008.

Pennsylvania Call to Action – Pennsylvania’s House Transportation Committee has scheduled a hearing on Thursday, April 10, to discuss a bill, SB295 that would impose idling restrictions on large trucks throughout the state. The hearing will take place at 9:30 am, April 10th in Room G-50 of the Irvis Office Building (formerly the South Office Building).

• For a map and driving directions to the Capitol Complex, click here.
• To read the Pennsylvania Call to Action, click here.

Air date: April 9, 2008.

MATS Goodyear Highway Hero – Terry Scruton spoke with OOIDA member Richard Filiczkowski, the 2008 recipient of Goodyear’s 25th Annual Highway Hero Award.

• You can read more by Land Line Magazine here
• You can visit Goodyear’s Web site here.

Air date: April 9, 2008.

Diesel update – Terry Scruton presented an update on the price of diesel fuel and crude oil.

• To read this week’s price report by Land Line Magazine, click here.
• To check the price today through ProMiles, click here.
• To see how to compute your own fuel surcharge through OOIDA’s online guide, click here.

Air date: April 9, 2008.

Diesel comments – If you have questions or a comment about diesel prices, or you’ve seen some interesting highs and lows at the pumps wherever you are, call our “Land Line Now” Diesel Price Line. Dial 1-800-324-6856, and then press 2 to record your message. This week, we’re asking truckers to call the line to respond to this question: “Did you participate in any of the shutdowns or slowdowns last week? And do you think they accomplished anything?” Air date: April 9, 2008.

Maintenance Q&A – We spoke with Land Line Magazine Senior Technical Editor Paul Abelson. If you have a question for Paul, you can send him an e-mail, or mail him c/o Land Line Magazine, PO Box 1000, Grain Valley, MO, 64029. Air date: April 9, 2008.

The Spirit – Howard and Pam Hart will have OOIDA’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro truck stop in Joplin, MO. The Petro is located at Exit 4 on Interstate 44. To follow The Spirit’s schedule, click here. Air date: April 9, 2008.

Truck parking – Terry Scruton reported about a public meeting on truck parking in Hesperia, California. The meeting will be held April 17th. To read more from Land Line Magazine, click here. April 8, 2008.

State Update – Virginia and Connecticut – Reed Black spoke to Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble about a law that would rid the state of so-called bad driver fees. While in Connecticut, a bill is on the move in the house to reduce unnecessary idling of motor vehicles throughout the state.

• To read about more legislation in Virginia, click here.
• To read about more legislation in Connecticut, click here.

Air date: April 8, 2008.

The Spirit - Howard and Pam Hart have OOIDA’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro 2 Truck Shop in Salina, KS. The Petro is located Exit 252 on Interstate 70, on the north side of the highway. To follow The Spirit’s schedule, click here. Air date: April 8, 2008.

Diesel Prices – During today’s newscast, Terry Scruton reported on the price of diesel fuel.

• To check today’s price, click here.
• To calculate your fuel surcharge, click here.
• To calculate your cost of operations, click here.

Air date: April 8, 2008.

OOIDA Call to Action – OOIDA has issued a national Call to Action regarding the price of fuel. Everyone is urged to contact their lawmakers and convey to them how the fuel prices are impacting you.

• You can read the National Call to Action here.
• For tips on contacting your lawmakers, click here.
• To call any member of Congress, dial (202) 224-3121.
• To get a fax number, e-mail address or street address to write your congressman, call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.

Air date: April 8, 2008.

NIOSH Test - Tuesday through Thursday, a team from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health will be at the OOIDA offices collecting data for a truck driver benchmarking study that will be used in the hours-of-service decision-making process. They are paying $50 dollars per person for the information, and it only takes about 30 minutes to complete. For more information, stop by the OOIDA headquarters at Exit 24 off Interstate 70 in Grain Valley, Missouri or call 1-800-444-5791. Air date: April 8, 2008.

Heads up: Pennsylvania truckers! – The state’s House Transportation Committee has scheduled a hearing on Thursday, April 10th, to discuss a bill, SB295, that would impose idling restrictions on large trucks throughout the state. The hearing will take place at 9:30 am, April 10th in Room G-50 of the Irvis Office Building (formerly the South Office Building). For a map and driving directions to the Capitol Complex, click here. Air date: April 8, 2008.

EPA Clean Diesel Initiative – Mark Reddig spoke during a news conference with Margo Oge of the EPA’s Office of Transportation and Air Quality. The topic was a new diesel engine retrofit and replacement program.

• To learn more from EPA, click here.
• To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here.

Air date: April 7, 2008.

Trans-Texas Protest – Terry Scruton reported on a planned protest of the Trans-Texas Corridor proposal by TURF - Texans Uniting for Reform and Freedom. To learn more about TURF, click here. Air date: April 7, 2008.

NIOSH Test - Tuesday through Thursday, a team from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health will be at the OOIDA offices collecting data for a truck driver benchmarking study that will be used in the hours-of-service decision-making process. They are paying $50 dollars per person for the information, and it only takes about 30 minutes to complete. For more information, stop by the OOIDA headquarters at Exit 24 off Interstate 70 in Grain Valley, Missouri or call 1-800-444-5791. Air date: April 7, 2008.

Chance Rodgers – Terry Scruton reported on the efforts of truckers to help Chance Rodgers, the grandson of OOIDA member Jim Rodgers. Chance is battling cancer. For more information about the benefit effort, call Gulf Coast Filters at 1-866-728-3582. Air date: April 7, 2008.

Diesel Prices – During today’s newscast, Terry Scruton reported on the price of diesel fuel.

• To check today’s price, click here.
• To calculate your fuel surcharge, click here.
• To calculate your cost of operations, click here.

Air date: April 7, 2008.

The Spirit - Howard and Pam Hart have OOIDA’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro 2 Truck Shop in Salina, KS. The Petro is located Exit 252 on Interstate 70, on the north side of the highway. To follow The Spirit’s schedule, click here. Air date: April 7, 2008.

OOIDA Call to Action – OOIDA has issued a national Call to Action regarding the price of fuel. Everyone is urged to contact their lawmakers and convey to them how the fuel prices are impacting you.

• You can read the National Call to Action here.
• For tips on contacting your lawmakers, click here.
• To call any member of Congress, dial (202) 224-3121.
• To get a fax number, e-mail address or street address to write your congressman, call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.

Air date: April 4, 2008.

A Day at MATS – Mark Reddig gave us a look at the Mid-American Truck Show in Louisville, KY. You can visit the Web sites of companies mentioned below:

• For the EPA SmartWay program, click here.
• For the World’s Largest Truck Convoy, click here.
• For Freightliner’s Cascadia, click here.
• For Mack Trucks’ Titan, click here.
• For TarpStop, click here.
• For Jacobs Brakes, click here.
• For Wabash Trailers, click here.
• For Mac Trailers, click here.
• For Webasto, click here.
• For Czarnowski Exhibit Service Inc., click here

Air date: April 4, 2008.

The Spirit and the OOIDA NASCAR simulator - Ron Mermis will have the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the Petro in West Memphis, AR, through the end of the week. The Petro is located at Exit 280 on I-40. Also, starting Sunday, April 6, Howard and Pam Hart will have OOIDA’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro 2 Truck Shop in Salina, KS. The Petro is located Exit 252 on Interstate 70, on the north side of the highway. You can follow The Spirit’s schedule online here. Air date: April 4, 2008.

Cost of Operation – Mark Reddig spoke at the Mid-America Truck Show in Louisville, KY, with Land Line Magazine Senior Editor Jami Jones and Kip Hough of OOIDA’s Member Assistance Department about knowing your cost of operation. Below are several links to assist you:

• An online guidebook that leads you through figuring your cost of operation can be found here.
• A spreadsheet you can use online can be found here. (This requires no additional software on your computer.)
• A worksheet you can download on your computer and modify can be found here. (Please note, this is an Excel program and you must have Excel on your computer.)
• For more information, check out the upcoming May issue of Land Line Magazine.

Air date: April 3, 2008.

The Spirit and the OOIDA NASCAR simulator - Ron Mermis will have the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the Petro in West Memphis, AR, through the end of the week. The Petro is located at Exit 280 on I-40. Also, starting Sunday, April 6, Howard and Pam Hart will have OOIDA’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro 2 Truck Shop in Salina, KS. The Petro is located Exit 252 on Interstate 70, on the north side of the highway. You can follow The Spirit’s schedule online here. Air date: April 3, 2008.

State Update - Connecticut and New Jersey - Reed Black will talk with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. A Connecticut bill would get tough with drivers who fail to clear snow and ice off their vehicles, while a group of bills in New Jersey is intended to improve port operations and safety on roadways.

• To read more about legislation in Connecticut, click here.
• To read about more legislation in New Jersey, click here.

Air date: April 2, 2008.

OOIDA addresses California Ports – Mark Reddig spoke with OOIDA’s regulatory affairs specialist, Joe Rajkovacz, about his latest trip to address port officials in Los Angeles and Long Beach. To read a Special Report by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: April 2, 2008.

Arrow Trucks Back on the Road – Terry Scruton spoke to OOIDA member Don Turkelson after he won the Arrow Trucks Back on the Road 2008 at the Mid-America Truck Show in Louisville, KY. You can visit the Arrow Truck Sales Web site to see pictures here. Air date: April 2, 2008.

The Spirit - Ron Mermis will have the OOIDA NASCAR simulator at the Petro in West Memphis, AR, through the end of the week. The Petro is located at Exit 280 on I-40. Also, starting Sunday, April 6, Howard and Pam Hart will have OOIDA’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro 2 Truck Shop in Salina, KS. The Petro is located Exit 252 on Interstate 70, on the north side of the highway. You can follow The Spirit’s schedule online here. Air date: April 2, 2008.

Fuel Surcharge Legislation – During today’s newscast, Reed Black mentioned legislation OOIDA hopes to get introduced in Congress that would include a mandatory pass through of fuel surcharges and mandatory disclosure of all fuel surcharge information by brokers, carriers and anyone else involved in the transaction. The association is encouraging all truckers to call their representative in the U.S. House and both U.S. senators to ask for the legislation.

• For tips on writing your congressman, click here.
• To call any member of Congress, dial (202) 224-3121.
• To get a fax number, e-mail address or street address to write your congressman, call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.

Air date: April 1, 2008.

SmartWay – Mark Reddig spoke with Paul Bubbosh and Cheryl Bynum of the U.S. EPA SmartWay Program. You can learn more from the EPA Web site here. Air date: April 1, 2008.

State Update – Pennsylvania and Idaho - Reed Black spoke with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. A bipartisan plan in Pennsylvania would fund road and bridge repairs without new taxes or tolls, while an Idaho bill would implement the state’s first chain-up law.

• To read more about legislation in Pennsylvania, click here.
• To read about more legislation in Idaho, click here.

Air date: April 1, 2008.

The Spirit - Starting Sunday, April 6, Howard and Pam Hart will have OOIDA’s tour truck, The Spirit of the American Trucker, at the Petro 2 Truck Shop in Salina, KS. The Petro is located Exit 252 on Interstate 70, on the north side of the highway. You can follow The Spirit’s schedule online here. Air date: April 1, 2008.