Terry Scruton spoke with Joe Rajkovacz and Land Line Magazine staff writer, Charlie Morasch about the details of the California Air Resources Board’s recently approved Diesel Emissions Reduction Regulations.

· You can read more by Land Line Magazine here.

· You can go to CARB Web site here.

· For more information on the Greenhouse gas rule, click here.

· You can go to the EPA Web site here.

Air date: Dec. 31, 2008.

Reed Black spoke with Rick Craig and Jami Jones about the new medical certification requirements from the FMCSA that will tie a CDL to the holder’s medical certification.

· You can read a Special Report from Land Line Magazine here.

· You can go to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Web site here.

Air date: Dec. 31, 2008.

Mark Reddig talks with OOIDA’s Rod Nofziger about the mission, goals and everyday activities of OOIDA’s Washington, DC, office. You can learn more about the accomplishments of OOIDA from OOIDA.com here. Air date: Dec. 30, 2008.

Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In Texas, lawmakers soon will wage battle on methods to help pay for road work.

• To read about more legislation in Texas, click here.
• To read more by Land Line Magazine, click here.

Air date: Dec. 30, 2008.

Reed Black spoke with Land Line Magazine’s writer, Bill Hudgins who gave us his list of 2008’s Top 10 Truckin’ Headlines. You can read Bill’s blog from the Land Line Magazine blog here. Air date: Dec. 29, 2008.

Mark Reddig talks with OOIDA’s Rod Nofziger about the mission, goals and everyday activities of OOIDA’s Washington, DC, office. You can learn more about the accomplishments of OOIDA from OOIDA.com here. Air date: Dec. 29, 2008.

A memorial fund has been set up for William Scott Miller, the truck driver killed in a shooting spree last week in Dallas, Texas.

· You can read more about the shootings by Land Line Magazine here.

· Donations can be mailed to the following address:

o Central Bank
Attn: Keith Preston
William Scott Miller Memorial Fund
300 W. Vine St.
Lexington, KY 40507

o Or you can call 800-637-6884

Air date: Dec. 29, 2008.

Mark Reddig spoke with Robert Brendel Missouri DOT and Gretchen Ivy of HNTB about truck-only lanes along the so-called “corridors of the future.”

· You can go to the Improve I-70 Web site here;

· To view the video of the Truck only lanes, click here;

· If you have questions or comments for MoDOT concerning truck-only lanes you can:

o E-mail them to Robert.Brendel@MoDOT.mo.gov;

o Or call MoDOT at 1-888-ASK MoDOT (1-888-275-6636);

o Mail them to:

Improve I-70

P.O. Box 410482

Kansas City, MO

64141-0482

Air date: Dec. 27, 2008

Mark Reddig reported about OOIDA’s fight against longer and heavier trucks. You can read more from Land Line Magazine here. Air date: Dec. 26, 2008.

Terry Scruton spoke with Jamie Boydston and Craig LaMaster, financial advisors from Mass Financial Group, who offered advice on how to handle your money during these tough economic times.

• You can go to the Mass Financial Group Inc. Web site here.


• OOIDA offers several links to assist you in figuring your cost of operation below:

o An online guidebook that leads you through figuring your cost of operation can be found here.

o A spreadsheet you can use online can be found here. (This requires no additional software on your computer.)

o 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.)

o You can read more in Land Line Magazine May 2008 issue here.

Air date: Dec. 26, 2008

In Calgary, Canada, two women who work for Rosenau Transport began a food drive six years ago (with the help of a donated Rosenau truck). Last year, the ’18 Wheels of Christmas’ food drive collected more than $250,000 worth of food and donations. If you, or your company, would like to participate, contact Ms. Dale Hart at 1-800-640-9602. Air date: Dec. 24, 2008.

For more information on purchasing Mark Mendonsa’s book, “A Semi for a Sleigh,” click here. Air date: Dec. 25, 2008.

In Chicago, a growing group of truckers have participated in the annual “Blessing of the Trucks”—it happened on Sunday, December 7th. The group drove from 36th & Pulaski Road to the nearby Saint Blasé church where the pastor blessed the drivers and their rigs.

Coffee and snacks were served afterwards. The event was free, but donations to the church were welcome. For more information, contact Nancy or Freddie Lagunes at 708-426-5732.

Air date: Dec. 24, 2008.

The national program Wreaths Across America had a dozen truckers who hauled wreaths that were laid at the gravestones of military veterans on December 13th. If you are interested in volunteering for next year’s run, you can call 207-483-2039. For more information on the not-for-profit project, click here. Air date: Dec. 24, 2008.

Mark Reddig moderates a discussion of whether the current economic conditions could eliminate the possibility of a pre-buy before the 2010 model trucks arrive.

• You can read more in a Special Report by Land Line Magazine here.
• You can read a press release from OOIDA here.
• You can read the study released by NERA Economic Consulting here and here.

Air date: Dec. 26, 2008

Reed Black spoke with Joe Rajkovacz about Wisconsin grant money for APUs that is still available for OOIDA members through December.

• · For more information and to download an application, you can visit the Wisconsin Department of Commerce Web site here.
• · or contact Jean Beckwith at 608-261-2517,
• · via e-mail at Jean.Beckwith@wisconsin.gov
• · You can also:
• · Read more by Land Line Magazine here.
• · Go to the OOIDA Web site and check out OOIDA Equipment Financing for APUs here.
• · Go to the OOIDA Web site to see rebates, including APUs, available through OOIDA here.

Air date: Dec. 24, 2008.

Reed Black reported today that OOIDA raised $54,567 to send care packages to our troops overseas – an increase of $11,000 over last year’s results.

· You can read an OOIDA press release here.

· As a thank-you to our members, OOIDA is extending the $25 rate for new memberships and for renewals through Jan. 31. All you have to do is call 1-800-444-5791 and ask for Membership.

· We’re soliciting hand-made cards and letters from kids. They can be sent to Norita Taylor at OOIDA.

· OOIDA is also soliciting personal letters to be sent to our soldiers overseas as part of OOIDA’s care packages. You can mail them to us at:

o OOIDA Truckers for Troops, PO Box 1000, Grain Valley, MO, 64029, c/o Sherry Murry;

o Or e-mail them to sherry_murry@ooida.com.

Air date: Dec. 23, 2008.

Terry Scruton offered up one of his patented Roses from 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 through the Members Only section of our Web site. Just click here. Air date: Dec. 23, 2008.

As voting among members continues, we bring you an encore presentation of interviews with candidates for alternate positions on the OOIDA Board of Directors. Today we’ll hear from Gary Carr, Louis Esposito and DuWayne Marshall. You can learn more about each of the candidates from the OOIDA Web site here. Air date: Dec. 23, 2008.

Reed Black reported today that OOIDA raised $54,567 to send care packages to our troops overseas – an increase of $11,000 over last year’s results.

· You can read an OOIDA press release here.

· As a thank-you to our members, OOIDA is extending the $25 rate for new memberships and for renewals through Jan. 31. All you have to do is call 1-800-444-5791 and ask for Membership.

· We’re soliciting hand-made cards and letters from kids. They can be sent to Norita Taylor at OOIDA.

· OOIDA is also soliciting personal letters to be sent to our soldiers overseas as part of OOIDA’s care packages. You can mail them to us at:

o OOIDA Truckers for Troops, PO Box 1000, Grain Valley, MO, 64029, c/o Sherry Murry;

o Or e-mail them to sherry_murry@ooida.com.

Air date: Dec. 22, 2008.

Jami Jones spoke to Rod Nofziger about OOIDA’s fight against longer and heavier trucks. You can read more from Land Line Magazine here. Air date: Dec. 22, 2008.

Ontario officials have officially published regulation for speed limiters on all heavy trucks. However, OOIDA continues the fight to stop the implementation of the speed limiter regulation.

· You can read more by Land Line Magazine here and here.

· Click here to read the Ontario regulations.

· To read Jim Johnston’s letter, click here.

· Truckers are encouraged to make their views known regarding plans to require speed limiters in Quebec and Ontario.

o If you are a Canadian trucker who wants to call your representatives, either in those two provinces to oppose the plan, or in other provinces to ask that it not be spread further, you can get that contact information from the Membership Department at OOIDA, at 1-800-444-5791.

o If you live in a district that borders with Canada or drive into Canada frequently, please call your congressman’s or senator’s office to relay your concerns. Tell them your thoughts or experiences about speed limited trucks and how a speed limiter requirement will impact your business, productivity or ability to haul in and out of Canada. The number to the Capitol Switchboard is 202-224-3121.

· Also, if you encounter any speed limiter enforcement efforts or experience any complications related to this legislation please e-mail OOIDA. Either:

o E-mail us at sherry_murry@ooida.com;

o Or call the Listener Comment Line at 1-800-324-6856.

Air date: Dec. 22, 2008.

As voting among members continues, we bring you an encore presentation of interviews with candidates for alternate positions on the OOIDA Board of Directors. Today we heard from Dale Wiederholt, Henry Albert and John “Jack” McComb. You can learn more about each of the candidates from the OOIDA Web site here. Air date: Dec. 22, 2008.

Reed Black reported today that OOIDA raised $54,567 to send care packages to our troops overseas – an increase of $11,000 over last year’s results.

· We’re soliciting hand-made cards and letters from kids. They can be sent to Norita Taylor at OOIDA.

· OOIDA is also soliciting personal letters to be sent to our soldiers overseas as part of OOIDA’s care packages. You can mail them to us at:

o OOIDA Truckers for Troops, PO Box 1000, Grain Valley, MO, 64029, c/o Sherry Murry;

o Or e-mail them to sherry_murry@ooida.com.

Air date: Dec. 19, 2008.

Mark Reddig discussed a letter sent by OOIDA President and CEO Jim Johnston to Jim Bradley, the transportation minister in Ontario.

· To read Jim’s letter, click here.

· Truckers are encouraged to make their views known regarding plans to require speed limiters in Quebec and Ontario.

o If you are a Canadian trucker who wants to call your representatives, either in those two provinces to oppose the plan, or in other provinces to ask that it not be spread further, you can get that contact information from the Membership Department at OOIDA, at 1-800-444-5791.

o If you live in a district that borders with Canada or drive into Canada frequently, please call your congressman’s or senator’s office to relay your concerns. Tell them your thoughts or experiences about speed limited trucks and how a speed limiter requirement will impact your business, productivity or ability to haul in and out of Canada. The number to the Capitol Switchboard is 202-224-3121.

· Also, if you encounter any speed limiter enforcement efforts or experience any complications related to this legislation please e-mail OOIDA. Either:

o E-mail us at sherry_murry@ooida.com;

o Or call the Listener Comment Line at 1-800-324-6856.

Air date: Dec. 19, 2008.

Terry Scruton says truckers don’t need an hours of service rule nearly as much as some doctors do.

· To read Terry’s rant, click here.

· To read other entries in our Friday Rants series, click here.

Air date: Dec. 19, 2008.

Steven R. Herbeck of Sierra Vista, AZ, has been recognized by the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association for three years of safe, accident-free driving as part of the OOIDA Safe Driving Award Program.

• To read more about Steven, click here.
• To learn more about the Safe Driving Award from OOIDA.com, click here.

Air date: Dec. 19, 2008.

Mark Reddig spoke with Mike Joyce about President-elect Barack Obama choice for the secretary of the Department of Transportation, Rep. Ray LaHood from Illinois. You can read more by Land Line Magazine here. Air date: Dec. 18, 2008.

In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about the Truckers for Troops telethon that was held last week.

· We’re soliciting hand-made cards and letters from kids. They can be sent to Norita Taylor at OOIDA.

· OOIDA is also soliciting personal letters to be sent to our soldiers overseas as part of OOIDA’s care packages. You can mail them to us at:

o OOIDA Truckers for Troops, PO Box 1000, Grain Valley, MO, 64029, c/o Sherry Murry;

o Or e-mail them to sherry_murry@ooida.com.

Air date: Dec. 18, 2008

Marion L. Crafts of Bend, OR, has been recognized by the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association for 25 years of safe, accident-free driving as part of the OOIDA Safe Driving Award Program.

· To read more about Marion, click here.

· To learn more about the Safe Driving Award from OOIDA.com, click here.

Air date: Dec. 18, 2008.

Terry Scruton spoke with Jamie Boydston and Craig LaMaster, financial advisors from Mass Financial Group, who offered advice on how to handle your money during these tough economic times.

• You can go to the Mass Financial Group Inc. Web site here.
• OOIDA offers several links to assist you in figuring your cost of operation below:

o An online guidebook that leads you through figuring your cost of operation can be found here.

o A spreadsheet you can use online can be found here. (This requires no additional software on your computer.)

o 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.)

o You can read more in Land Line Magazine May 2008 issue here.

Air date: Dec. 18, 2008.

In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about California now having, by far, the toughest rules in the nation on truck emissions — and there’s a lot of confusion about how they’ll impact the one-truck owner-operator, and when. Here are some of the big dates, and what kicks in on those dates:

· On Jan. 1, 2014 — five years from now — trucks with engines that are 2003 model year or older will be prevented from legally entering the state.

· A truck with a 2004 model year engine — and an approved diesel particulate filter — will be legal in California until at least 2017, which is eight years from now.

· A truck with a 2007 model year engine – or newer — will be legal until 2021, 12 years from now.

· There’s also a provision that, once a year, carriers whose truck doesn’t meet the standards can get a three-day pass.

· You can read more in a Special Report by Land Line Magazine here.

Air date: Dec. 18, 2008.

As a thank-you to our members, OOIDA is extending the $25 rate for new memberships and for renewals through Jan. 31. All you have to do is call 1-800-444-5791 and ask for Membership. Air date: Dec. 18, 2008.

Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In Missouri, a state lawmaker has renewed his effort to eliminate barriers prohibiting toll roads and bridges in the state. Meanwhile in New Hampshire, lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are looking into a fuel tax boost.

· To read about more legislation in Missouri, click here.

· To read about more legislation in New Hampshire, click here.

Air date: Dec. 18, 2008.

OOIDA has issued an Information Update for all Canadian truckers regarding a planned convoy to protest speed limiters. The convoy is meeting at 7 a.m. at the Cedar Creek Fuel Centre, 2492 Cedar Creek Road, in Ayr, Ontario. The group leaves for Toronto around 9 a.m., and expects to be in Toronto’s Queen’s Park around 11 a.m.

• You can read the Information Update here.
• You can read more by Land Line Magazine here.
• The organizer is Scott Mooney. You can reach him at (519) 821-2121.
• To find contact information for your MPP, click here.

Air date: Dec. 18, 2008.

Jackie Johnson of Virgie, KY, has been recognized by the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association for 32 years of safe, accident-free driving as part of the OOIDA Safe Driving Award Program.

· To read more about Jackie, click here.

· To learn more about the Safe Driving Award from OOIDA.com, click here.

Air date: Dec. 17, 2008.

Mark Reddig spoke with Laura O’Neill about a trucking protest against speed limiters in Ontario, Canada.

· You can read more about the protest from Land Line Magazine here.

· Also, truckers are encouraged to make their views known regarding plans to require speed limiters in Quebec and Ontario.

o If you are a Canadian trucker who wants to call your representatives, either in those two provinces to oppose the plan, or in other provinces to ask that it not be spread further, you can get that contact information from the Membership Department at OOIDA, at 1-800-444-5791.

o If you live in a district that borders with Canada or drive into Canada frequently, please call your congressman’s or senator’s office to relay your concerns. Tell them your thoughts or experiences about speed limited trucks and how a speed limiter requirement will impact your business, productivity or ability to haul in and out of Canada. The number to the Capitol Switchboard is (202) 224-3121.

· Also, if you encounter any speed limiter enforcement efforts or experience any complications related to this legislation please e-mail OOIDA. Either:

o E-mail us at sherry_murry@ooida.com;

o Or call the Listener Comment Line at 1-800-324-6856.

Air date: Dec. 17, 2008.

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 also asking truckers who call the line to answer this question, “Would you be willing to have an increase in diesel prices if it meant there was more freight available?” Air date: Dec. 17, 2008.

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: Dec. 17, 2008.

Reed Black spoke with John Coster-Mullen, a 61-year-old trucker who has written a book describing the two atomic bombs, Little Boy and Fat Man, that were dropped on Japan at the end of World War II. You can read an article about Coster-Mullen by The New Yorker here. Dec. 17, 2008.

Reed Black talks with Minister Gilles Bisson, a member of the Ontario Parliament who spoke out against the province’s speed limiter law.

• You can call Minister Gilles Bisson’s office at (416) 325-7123 or (705) 268-6400 and thank him for his efforts.
• You can read the transcript of the conversation between Bisson and the province’s transportation minister here.
• You can read more by Land Line Magazine here.

Air date: Dec. 17, 2008.

California now has, by far, the toughest rules in the nation on truck emissions — and there’s a lot of confusion about how they’ll impact the one-truck owner-operator, and when. Here are some of the big dates, and what kicks in on those dates:

• On Jan. 1, 2014 — five years from now — trucks with engines that are 2003 model year or older will be prevented from legally entering the state.
• A truck with a 2004 model year engine — and an approved diesel particulate filter — will be legal in California until at least 2017, which is eight years from now.
• A truck with a 2007 model year engine – or newer — will be legal until 2021, 12 years from now.
• There’s also a provision that, once a year, carriers whose truck doesn’t meet the standards can get a three-day pass.
• You can read more in a Special Report by Land Line Magazine here.

Air date: Dec. 17, 2008.

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: Dec. 16, 2008.

OOIDA has issued a Call to Action to members and other truckers who live in Los Angeles County’s Antelope Valley to make them aware of a meeting on Friday, Dec. 19^, concerning parking your truck at your residence.

• Everyone is invited to the meeting. It is scheduled for 7 p.m., Friday, Dec. 19, at:

Tom Fidger

37324 90^th Street East

Littlerock, California

• If you have any questions, call Tom at (661) 944-0212 or Bill Benton at (661) 944-5712.
• You can read more by Land Line Magazine here.
• You can read the OOIDA Call to Action here.

Air date: Dec. 16, 2008.

Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In Idaho, the governor soon will call on lawmakers to increase the state’s fuel tax, among other things, to pay for roads. In Michigan, there is a late push to pass bills intended to reduce gridlock and advise truckers of ‘frost laws.’

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

Air date: Dec. 16, 2008.

Terry Scruton spoke with OOIDA member Don Turkelson, who recalls his 28 years’ experience as a chaplain for the U.S. Army. Don took part in the recent Truckers for Troops Telethon.

· To donate, just call the main number, 1-800-444-5791.

· If you mail in a donation, you need to indicate on the check “Donation only” and specify “TROOPS,” so your contribution is counted.

· Mail the completed form with membership fee to Truckers for Troops, PO Box 1000, Grain Valley, MO, 64029.

You can also contribute items for the packages.

· We’re soliciting hand-made cards and letters from kids. They can be sent to Norita Taylor at 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:

o OOIDA Truckers for Troops, PO Box 1000, Grain Valley, MO, 64029, c/o Sherry Murry;

o Or e-mail them to sherry_murry@ooida.com.

Air date: Dec. 16, 2008.

Mark Reddig talks with OOIDA’s Joe Rajkovacz and with Paul Yurkovac of the the Owner-Operators Coalition of Virginia about efforts by OOIDA and the OOCVA to fight for truckers’ rights at the Port of Hampton Roads.

• You can view the OOCVA Web site here.
• You can read more by Land Line Magazine here.
• You can read more in the December/January issue of Land Line Magazine here

Air date: Dec. 15, 2008.

John Withers Jr. of Buena Vista, GA, has been recognized by the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association for 22 years of safe, accident-free driving as part of the OOIDA Safe Driving Award Program.

• · To read more about John, click here.
• · To learn more about the Safe Driving Award from OOIDA.com, click here.

Air date: Dec. 15, 2008.

As voting among members continues, we bring you an encore presentation of interviews with candidates for alternate positions on the OOIDA Board of Directors. Today we’ll hear from Gary Carr, Louis Esposito and DuWayne Marshall. You can learn more about each of the candidates from the OOIDA Web site here. Air date: Dec. 14, 2008.

As voting among members continues, we bring you an encore presentation of interviews with candidates for alternate positions on the OOIDA Board of Directors. Today we’ll hear from Dale Wiederholt, Henry Albert and John “Jack” McComb. You can learn more about each of the candidates from the OOIDA Web site here. Air date: Dec. 13, 2008.

Mark Reddig spoke with OOIDA’s Rod Nofziger about the upcoming switch of TV to digital transmission on Feb. 17, 2009. That leaves only 68 days to either buy a digital TV or purchase a converter box.

• · You can apply for coupon to help pay for a converter box – or learn more about the transition –here.
• · You can also call for a coupon at 1-888-DTV-2009.

Air date: Dec. 11, 2008.

Mark Reddig spoke with Laura O’Neill concerning the efforts of the Minister of Parliament Gilles Bisson. Today, Minister Bisson stood up for truckers and the damage speed limiters can cause and directly challenged the Minister of Transportation on the floor of the Ontario Parliament. This is an effort that should not go unacknowledged; you can call Minister Gilles Bisson office at 416-325-7123 or (705) 268-6400 and thank him for his efforts. Air date: Dec. 10, 2008.

All this week, you can join OOIDA or renew your membership for $25. Ten percent of that money will go to sending care packages to U.S. troops stationed in combat areas overseas. OOIDA will match that money. We want to raise enough money to send care packages to at least 2,000 soldiers. To take part:

• Just call the main number, 1-800-444-5791.
• During business hours, let operators know you’re calling about the telethon and they will transfer you to membership.
• If you call any other time, call the main number and press 1 – that will transfer you to membership if we’re here; if we’re closed, it will put you in a voice mail box where you can leave your name a phone number for membership to call you back.
• If you mail in a payment during the telethon, you need to indicate on the payment if it’s “Dues & Donation” or “Donation only” and specify “TROOPS,” so your contribution is counted.
• To print out a form to mail in, click here.
• Mail the completed form with membership fee to Truckers for Troops, PO Box 1000, Grain Valley, MO, 64029.
• On line applications for dues and/or donations will also be accepted.
• For new members, click here;
• For current members who are renewing, click here;

You can also contribute items for the packages.

• We’re soliciting hand-made cards and letters from kids. They can be sent to Norita Taylor at 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 1000, Grain Valley, MO, 64029, c/o Sherry Murry;
• Or e-mail them to sherry_murry@ooida.com.

Air date: Dec. 8, 2008.

With legislation in several states to protect police and emergency workers, Reed Black offers up a few of his own thoughts in the rant today.

• To read Reed’s rant, click here.
• To read other entries in our Friday Rants series, click here.

Air date: Dec. 5, 2008.

OOIDA member DuWayne Marshall shared his thoughts on CARB’s proposals and California overall. To view the Web site of CARB – the California Air Resources Board – click here. Air date: Dec. 5, 2008.

Mark Reddig spoke with Mike Joyce about a Pennsylvania Transportation Funding Symposium that Mike attended as a representative of OOIDA. To read more in a Special Report by Land Line Magazine, click here. Air date: Dec. 5, 2008.

The Massachusetts Legislature’s Joint Transportation Committee has scheduled three hearings to discuss transportation funding options. The hearings are all at the State House, 24 Beacon St., in Boston.

• The dates are as follows:
• 11 a.m., Tuesday, Dec. 9;
• 11 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 17; and
• 11 a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2009.
• The Turnpike officials have called four public hearings of their own regarding toll increases.
• Dec. 10 in Boston;
• Dec. 15 in Lynn;
• Dec. 17 in Framingham; and
• Jan. 7 in Worcester.
• For times and locations and to submit written comments on the toll proposal, click here.
• You can read the OOIDA Information Update here.
• You can read more by Land Line Magazine here.

Air date: Dec. 5, 2008.

OOIDA member DuWayne Marshall shared his thoughts on CARB’s proposals and California overall. To view the Web site of CARB – the California Air Resources Board – click here. Air date: Dec. 5, 2008.

Reed Black told us about a website where you can get your hands on the best list of all—the top 10 stupidest gift ideas for Christmas. You can go to Stupid.com here. Air date: Dec. 4, 2008.

Terry Scruton gets a preview of what’s inside the upcoming December/January issue of Land Line Magazine from the writers and editors.

• If you’re a trucker, and you’d like to receive the magazine, click here.
• If you would like to subscribe to Land Line’s Daily eNews, click here.
• You can view Land Line Magazine’s Web site here.

Air date: Dec. 4, 2008.

Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. In Ohio, a bill would require aspiring truck drivers to have a firm grasp of the English language to obtain a CDL. Meanwhile, in New Jersey, a bill is intended to add a barrier of protection for drivers in the state.

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

Air date: Dec. 4, 2008.

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. Air date: Dec. 3, 2008.

Terry Scruton updates us on the falling price of diesel fuel and crude oil, including a breakdown of prices by region and analysis.

• 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: Dec. 3, 2008.

The national program Wreaths Across America is looking for about a dozen truckers to volunteer to haul wreaths that will be laid at the gravestones of military veterans on December 13th. Volunteers can call 207-483-2039. For more information on the not-for-profit project, click here. Air date: Dec. 3, 2008.

In Calgary, Canada, two women who work for Rosenau Transport began a food drive six years ago (with the help of a donated Rosenau truck). Last year, the ’18 Wheels of Christmas’ food drive collected more than $250,000 worth of food and donations. If you, or your company, would like to participate, contact Ms. Dale Hart at 1-800-640-9602. Air date: Dec. 3, 2008.

In Chicago, a growing group of truckers are participating in the annual “Blessing of the Trucks”—scheduled for Sunday, December 7th. The group drives from 36th & Pulaski Road to the nearby Saint Blasé church where the pastor blesses the drivers and their rigs.

Coffee and snacks are served afterwards. It’s free—unless you want to make a donation to the church. For more information, contact Nancy or Freddie Lagunes at 708-426-5732.

Air date: Dec. 3, 2008.

December 1^st brought a toll increase on the New Jersey Turnpike and Garden State Parkway despite opposition by lawmakers and trucking associations including Owner Operator Independent Driver Association.

• You can read more by Land Line Magazine here.
• To check rates by vehicle class for 2008 and 2012, click here.

Air date: Dec. 3. 2008.

Mark Reddig spoke to Joe Rajkovacz about TWIC implementation at ports. Dec. 1 was the first day that Charleston, Savannah, Jacksonville and several other ports began requiring truckers to have a TWIC card to gain entry into port facilities. We have received calls from truckers regarding problems about getting their TWIC cards as well as trying to enter ports yesterday. If you have experienced similar problems in South Carolina or any other port, please contact Angel Burnell or Denise Volmer at 1-800-444-5791 immediately.

• You can read the South Carolina Call to Action here.
• You can read more by Land Line Magazine here.
• You can visit the Transportation Security Administration Web site here.

Air date: Dec. 3, 2008.

Terry Scruton spoke with Peter Vanderzee, president and CEO of LifeSpan Technologies, about new methods to inspect the safety of bridges.

• You can read more by Land Line Magazine here.
• You can visit LifeSpan Technologies Web site here.

Air date: Dec. 2, 2008.

Dec. 1 was the first day that Charleston, Savannah, Jacksonville and several other ports began requiring truckers to have a TWIC card to gain entry into port facilities. We have received calls from truckers regarding problems about getting their TWIC cards as well as trying to enter ports yesterday. If you have experienced similar problems in South Carolina or any other port, please contact Angel Burnell or Denise Volmer at 1-800-444-5791 immediately. You can read the South Carolina Call to Action here. Air date: Dec. 2, 2008.

Reed Black talked with Land Line Magazine State Legislative Editor Keith Goble. Two state lawmakers in KY are renewing an effort to create a state authority for large-scale transportation projects. In Illinois, a bill would increase most vehicle registration fees for squad cars.

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

Air date: Dec. 2, 2008.

In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about the TRUCC Act. The fuel surcharge legislation is listed in the Senate as S.2910. The House version is HR 5977.

• You can read OOIDA’s three National Call to Action notices concerning TRUCC here, here and here.
• To call your U.S. senators or U.S. representative about TRUCC, dial (202) 224-3121.
• For tips on writing your members of Congress, click here.
• To get a fax number, e-mail address or street address to write your members of Congress, call the OOIDA Membership Department at 1-800-444-5791.

Air date: Dec. 1, 2008.

In today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig spoke about a discussion on VMT, or vehicle miles traveled, a new idea designed to collect tax money at the pump, raise funds for roads and possibly replace the fuel tax. It’s also the subject of a study just completed by the Oregon Department of Transportation.

• You can read more by Land Line Magazine on VMT here.
• You can go the Electronic Privacy Information Center Web site here.
• You can go to Oregon DOT Web site here.
• You can read ORDOT press release on the vehicle miles traveled study here.
• You can read ORDOT Road User Fee Pilot Program final report here.

Air date: Dec. 1, 2008.

During today’s Listener Comment Line, Mark Reddig mentioned hot fuel. To view OOIDA’s hot fuel Web site, click here. Air date: Dec. 1, 2008.

OOIDA has issued an information update regarding a series of public hearings scheduled by the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority on proposed toll increases. Public hearings for the proposed toll increases are scheduled as follows. All hearings are scheduled for 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the following locations:

• Wednesday, Dec. 10
  State Transportation Building
  10 Park Plaza, 2nd Floor
  Boston, MA 02116
• Monday, Dec. 15
  Lynn City Hall
  3 City Hall Square
  Lynn, MA 01901
• Wednesday, Dec. 17
  Framingham Memorial Building
  Nevins Hall
  150 Concord St.
  Framingham, MA 01702
• Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2009
  Worcester City Hall
  455 Main St.
  Worcester, MA 01608
• Written comments will be accepted for one week following the hearings via e-mail, or until 5:00 p.m., Jan. 14, 2009, at the following address:
• Office of the General Counsel

Massachusetts Turnpike Authority

10 Park Plaza, Suite 4 160

Boston, MA 02116

• You can read the OOIDA Massachusetts Information Update here.
• You can read more by Land Line Magazine here.

Air date: Dec. 1, 2008.

OOIDA will be having its 2nd annual Truckers for Troops Telethon Dec. 8-12. 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 1000, Grain Valley, MO, 64029, c/o Sherry Murry; or
• You can e-mail them to sherry_murry@ooida.com;
• You can also read more by Land Line Magazine here.

Air date: Dec. 1, 2008.

In the Canadian province of Ontario, the government will take applications for money that truckers can apply toward the purchase of idle-reduction equipment or a new, lower-emission truck. Applicants can receive a rebate of up to one-third of the cost of class 3 through 7 trucks, and up to one-third of the cost of an APU for a class 8 truck. You can find all the guidelines and the forms on the Ontario Ministry of Transportation Web site here. Air date: Dec. 1, 2008.

In today’s edition of Follow-Ups, Reed Black spoke with OOIDA member Diesel Dave Sweetman about photojournalist Bette Garber’s passing and the impact she had on the world of trucking through her lens. You can read more by Land Line Magazine here. Air date: Dec. 1, 2008.