October 15, 2004

THE NEWS RESOURCE FOR THE BUS AND MOTORCOACH INDUSTRY Older drivers: Are they an insurance problem? Motorcoach operators, strug- ber of older drivers they have on from operators who say their insur- sue insurance companies and driv- are pressuring companies to get rid gling to cope with rising insurance their staffs or face the prospect of ers are telling them to get rid of ers to sue their employers. of older drivers or risk losing their rates in recent years, may be facing higher premiums or not having those drivers or they won’t insure Littler warns the situation with insurance. a new insurance quandary — senior their policies renewed. them.” older drivers is likely to worsen National Interstate Insurance, drivers. “I know the operators are being If an insurance company or an because the average age of motor- which handles a large volume of Operators employing a number strong armed,” insists Norm Littler, operator were to follow through coach drivers is about 50 and on coach industry coverage, says if its of drivers over the age of 65 say senior vice president for govern- with such action, he contends, they the rise. “We have a number of agents are asking operators ques- they are being questioned by their ment and industry relations at the probably would be violating federal drivers in our industry who are in tions about the age of their drivers insurers, with agents and sales peo- United Motorcoach Association. laws against age discrimination, their 60s and 70s,” he notes. it’s because they are looking for ple telling them to reduce the num- “I’ve had more than one call opening the door for operators to Insurance companies deny they CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 þ Detroit Diesel upgrades early EGR engines Congressman accuses DETROIT — Detroit Diesel Corp. has launched a program to voluntarily upgrade 30,000 Series FTA of ignoring 60 cooled-EGR engines that it built to comply with federal emis- charter service issue sion standards that went into effect in October 2002. By Tania Anderson congressional hearing. “I have yet Approximately 2,300 of the to see a meaningful step by FTA in early EGR engines went into over- WASHINGTON — A Repub- holding noncompliant agencies the-road motorcoaches, a company lican congressman has accused the liable.” executive told Bus & Motorcoach Federal Transit Administration of The hearing, which was chaired News. turning a blind eye to the problem by Ose, offered a glimpse into an Rainer Schmueckle, chief ex- of public transit agencies competing agency that clearly struggles to ecutive of Detroit Diesel’s parent unfairly with private bus companies. define its own rules for preventing company, Freightliner LLC, re- Rep. Doug Ose of California, public agencies from providing vealed the upgrade program in an who chairs the House Subcommittee charter bus service that competes interview with a trucking publica- on Energy Policy, Natural Resources with private-sector companies. tion late last month. and Regulatory Affairs, also told The hearing also revealed the Schmueckle told Transport FTA Administrator Jennifer Dorn committee’s commitment to hold- Components of the exhaust gas recirculation system on a Detroit Diesel Series 60 Topics that Detroit Diesel will system are highlighted in blue. The EGR cooler is the rectangle-shaped bottle at the that her agency was doing a lousy job ing the FTA accountable when it spend about $30 million replacing lower center. Hot exhaust gases flow into the cooler through the short pipe tucked of enforcing its rules when maverick comes to charter rule enforcement. the exhaust coolers and plumbing behind the cooler, while cooled gases flow to the intake manifold through the long transit agencies break them. It was the second such hearing by on the earliest Series 60 engines pipe running up and over the engine. “I’m not convinced you’re tak- the committee, the first coming in that are equipped with exhaust gas out to roughly $1,000 per engine. working with its EGR supplier, the ing this seriously,” Ose told Ms. May (see June 1 issue of Bus & recirculation systems. Detroit Diesel is carrying most of Garrett Engine Boosting Systems Dorn, who had an entourage of Motorcoach News). CONTINUED ON PAGE 12 þ That means the upgrades work the cost, although it is reportedly CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 þ FTA officials with her at a Sept. 30 Congress fails to pass highway bill, extension OK’d WASHINGTON — Congress’ passed seven years ago. It was the Memorial Day. However, Congress’ new pork-laden highway and pub- service regulations for truckers in months-long struggle to pass a new sixth extension adopted by Con- failure to get a new law passed lic transportation legislation. effect until Sept. 30, 2005, or until six-year highway and mass transit gress since the Transportation means: • States won’t be rushing to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety bill came a cropper during the days Equity Act for the 21st Century • There won’t be changes — convert interstates to toll roads. Administration completes a rule- before the two houses adjourned for expired a year ago. good or bad — to the federal charter • Still, Congress was able to making to comply with a July fed- the fall elections. The latest extension means the service rules for at least eight months. make a few significant changes to eral appeals court order, whichever Unable to agree on a new bill, nation’s highway, public transit and • Funding for public transit the newest extension, adding lan- comes first. Congress sent President Bush an motor carrier safety programs will agencies won’t leap-frog as it typi- guage that: • Alters the current law for one eight-month extension of the law it be funded and operational through cally does when Congress adopts • Keeps the new hours-of- CONTINUED ON PAGE 12 þ

BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — October 15, 2004 — 3 INDUSTRY NEWS Peter L. Picknelly Sr. ENJOY YOUR MOTOR COACH MORE… WITH OUR “FRESH AIR” TO GO! dies while on vacation; THE AIR INSIDE YOUR MOTOR COACH FRESH AIR TO GO IS: WILL BE CLEAN, FRESH AND PLEASANT, • QUIET • EFFICIENT NOT TO MENTION IT USES THE SAME headed Peter Pan Lines • CONVENIENT SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – Peter L. PROCESS NASA USES TO SCRUB THE • AFFORDABLE Picknelly Sr., a legendary bus indus- AIR INSIDE THEIR SPACECRAFT. try figure who became a successful real estate developer and a moving force in his hometown of WE HAVE TESTIMONIALS FROM DRIVERS Springfield, died Oct. 4 while vaca- WHO TELL US THE AIR IS EASIER TO BREATHE tioning in Portugal. He was 73. Mr. Picknelly headed Peter Pan WHICH HELPS TO KEEP THEM MORE ALERT. Bus Lines for 40 years, building it into one of the industry’s leading IF A HEALTHIER ENVIRONMENT FOR companies through his hands-on management, business smarts and YOUR CUSTOMERS INTEREST YOU, QUALITY AIRE “The best AIR you’ll ever BREATHE” aggressive marketing. rebuilding and refurbishing shop, GIVE US A CALL TODAY. Today, Peter Pan operates 400 and Eastern Leasing Co., a finance (423) 384-9905 buses, employs more than 1,500 and bus leasing company. individuals, and grosses upwards of For more than a decade, Mr. $100 million annually. The compa- Picknelly was president of Spring- ny calls itself the largest private bus field Transit Management, which company in the U.S. operated the public transit service in Mr. Picknelly died of an appar- Springfield. He was particularly ent stroke while getting ready for a proud of having helped negotiate a sightseeing tour. He was traveling number of contracts with union with his wife, Judith, and longtime employees of the transit system. friend, Robert Santaniello, an attor- In 1993, Mr. Picknelly’s interest ney in Springfield. turned to real estate. He was the suc- In a joint statement, Mr. cessful bidder for a major office-hotel Picknelly’s three children mourned complex in downtown Springfield their father’s death. “Our father’s called Monarch Place, which great passions in life were his busi- includes the Sheraton Springfield. ness, his family and his love for the After that deal, he made a handful of city of Springfield where he was born other real estate acquisitions or initi- and raised… . He loved his work, his ated significant projects in family and projects that led to the Springfield and Holyoke, Mass. betterment of Springfield. We feel a In the late 1990s, Mr. Picknelly profound sense of loss and ask for and Peter Pan began operating what your prayers.” they called a “riverbus” service, pro- The American Bus Association, viding tours of the Connecticut in a notice sent to its members, River in Springfield. The tour has called Mr. Picknelly “a bus industry become one of the area’s major innovator for more than 40 years.” attractions. Mr. Picknelly was a long-time mem- A major highlight of Mr. ber of the ABA board and past chair- Picknelly’s professional life came late man of its Marketplace event. in his career. Although he was no Mr. Picknelly was three years old longer active in day-to-day manage- in 1933 when his father bought a ment of Peter Pan, he was very much limousine service called Yellow Cab involved in Peter Pan’s $40 million Air Line for $4,500. When he was purchase of five subsidiaries of 18, Mr. Picknelly went to work for Coach USA in June of last year. The the family bus company, renamed acquisition more than doubled the Peter Pan Bus Lines by his father. size of Peter Pan. After his father died in 1964, Mr. Mr. Picknelly’s civic involve- Picknelly became president of the ment in Springfield reached company. During the next 35 years, throughout the community. He also he grew Peter Pan into a regional received a number of honors, includ- transportation icon, and diversified ing being named Transportation the family business and his personal Person of the Year by the New interests in a dozen directions. England Passenger Transportation Over the years, Mr. Picknelly Association. Earlier this year, he was was an owner and manager of more named one of the Top 50 Who than a half-dozen bus companies, Influenced Public Transportation including operations in Washington, (during the past 100 years) by Metro D.C., West Palm Beach, Fla., and magazine. Puerto Rico. In addition to his widow, Mr. Other industry-related business- Picknelly is survived by his sons, es headed by Mr. Picknelly include Peter A. and Paul C., and his daugh- Coach Builders, a leading bus ter, Mary Jean. POSTMASTER: Return postage guaranteed for return of undeliverable copies of Bus&MotorcoachNEWS. Return to 717 W. Pierson, #160, Phoenix, AZ 85013 4 — October 15, 2004 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS The

New Illinois tolls Transits seek FMCSA tells Nevada to hike bus rates charter firms it can’t regulate coaches; CHICAGO — Rates on Illi- drops to $1.75 if a bus uses Illinois’ The following public transit nois toll roads for midsize buses toll roads between 10 p.m. and 6 providers have informed the state ignored U.S. laws will triple and those for large a.m., or adopts the I-Pass system. United Motorcoach Association WASHINGTON — In straight- require operators to file rates and motorcoaches will more than dou- For two-axle coaches, the over- of their intent to provide charter forward and unambiguous lan- rate changes. But, the state can’t ble on Jan. 1. night/I-Pass rate is $1. bus service unless willing and guage, the chief counsel of the regulate the rates operators charge. The increases, adopted by the Rates for auto drivers who pay able private operators step for- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Ad- Nevada operators have been Illinois State Toll Highway Au- cash doubles to 80 cents from 40 ward to offer their services, or to ministration has told the state of fighting with the state Transpor- thority on the last day of Septem- cents, while motorists with an bid on contract opportunities. Nevada it can’t regulate charter tation Services Authority for years ber, will help pay for a $5.3 billion I-Pass will continue to pay 40 UMA urges appropriate oper- bus companies having federal oper- over its efforts to regulate charter plan to upgrade the state’s toll cents. ators to take the time to respond ating authority. buses. The authority apparently roads during the next decade. Rates for over-the-road tractor- to these notices: Nevada statues and administra- decided years ago to ignore provi- Currently, 40- and 45-foot, trailers with five or more axles Jefferson City, Mo. Dead- tive codes contain a handful of pro- sions in the U.S. Transportation three-axle coaches pay 75 cents to jump to $4 at the typical toll plaza line: Oct. 13, 2004. Write to: visions requiring operators to have Equity Act for the 21st Century $1 at most Illinois toll plazas. That on Jan. 1, from the current $1.25- Richard Turner, Transit Division a state certificate of public conven- (TEA 21), adopted in 1998, that rate jumps to $2.25, or 18 cents a $1.50. The I-Pass and overnight Director, Jefferson City Commu- ience and necessity, and the laws prohibit states from regulating mile, on Jan. 1. rate for big trucks will be $3. nity Development, Transit Divi- give the Nevada Transportation charter bus operators subject to The typical toll for two-axle Illinois plans to rebuild much sion, 820 E. Miller St., Jefferson Services Authority the power to FMCSA licensing jurisdiction. coaches goes to $1.50, from the of the state’s 274 miles of tollway City, MO 65101. Phone: (573) grant certificates if it finds the “Some folks just don’t get it,” current 50 cents at most toll plazas. pavement, widening 117 miles, 634-6479 Ext. 3. applicants are financially and oper- noted one Washington-based lob- On a per-mile basis, the new rate and converting 116 miles to open- Port Angeles, Wash. Dead- ationally fit, and issuing the certifi- byist who has been following the for small buses is 12 cents. road tolling, using the electronic line: Oct. 15, 2004. Write to: cates will not unreasonably or situation in Nevada. The rate for three-axle coaches I-Pass system for collections. Daniel A. Di Guilio, General adversely affect other carriers. During much of last year, there Manager, Clallam Transit Sys- Such provisions run counter to was talk among Nevada operators House opposes foreign tem, 830 W. Lauridsen Blvd., federal law, says the FMCSA. of filing a federal lawsuit challeng- Port Angeles, WA 98363. Phone: In a letter sent last month to ing the Transportation Service Au- (360) 452-1315. the Nevada Legislative Counsel thority’s oversight and control of bus, truck exemptions Towanda, Pa. and surround- Bureau, the chief counsel of the charter bus operators. WASHINGTON — The In a statement, Olver said for- ing counties. Deadline: Oct. 15, FMCSA, Brigham McCown, wrote At least one operator did go seemingly never-ending battle to eign trucks should have to meet 2004. Write to: Karen Graber, that Nevada’s requirements appear after the TSA. A subsidiary of keep Mexican buses and trucks off federal safety standards just as for- General Manger, Endless Moun- to be in conflict with federal Coach USA filed an administra- U.S. highways has taken another eign cars do. “Why would we cre- tains Transportation Authority, statutes prohibiting states, cities tive complaint with the TSA, twist with the House of Repre- ate this huge loophole for trucks, One Progress Plaza, Suite 5, and counties from enacting or asserting the authority was pre- sentatives voting overwhelmingly which weigh thousands of pounds Towanda, PA 18848. Phone: enforcing laws that regulate inter- empted by federal law from regu- against a Bush administration plan more and are much more danger- (570) 265-4057. state or intrastate carriers operat- lating charter services provided by to grant a temporary waiver for ous than cars?” he asked. Port Gibson and Claiborne ing on an interstate route or any K-T Contract Services, a sub- Mexican and Canadian buses and Olver’s amendment was sup- County, Miss. Deadline: Oct. 26, carriers subject to FMCSA licens- sidiary of Coach USA. trucks to meet U.S. safety stan- ported by the Teamster’s Union, 2004. Write to: Hugh Johnson, ing jurisdiction. In other words, Bob Fairman, who owns No dards. the (truck) Owner-Operator Inde- Director, Claiborne County states can’t regulate operators hav- Stress Express, a shuttle and charter The 339-70 vote came late last pendent Drivers Association, and Human Resource Agency, P.O. ing a DOT number. bus service operating in the Reno- month on an amendment to the several safety and labor organi- Box 719, Port Gibson, MS The federal prohibition against Carson City-Lake Tahoe area, has $90 billion appropriations bill to zations. 39150. Phone: (601) 437-3063. state regulations extends to any been leading the fight against the fund the Transportation and rules governing rates for charter Nevada TSA through an organiza- Treasury departments for fiscal bus service and the authority to tion called the Nevada Transpor- 2005. Feds file suit against trucker provide such service. tation Coalition. The coalition Introduced by U.S. Rep. John “While some of the informa- includes bus, shuttle, tow car, taxi- Olver, D-Mass., the amendment after driver fainting episode tion requested of intrastate charter cab and limousine operators. opposes the two-year safety ex- MILWAUKEE — The U.S. never been diagnosed with any service operators in the application The TSA was scheduled to emption proposed by the Depart- Equal Employment Opportunity disease, only fainted once, and for a certificate under Nevada conduct a workshop Oct. 7, to dis- ment of Transportation. Commission has filed suit against received medical clearance to con- Administrative Code 706.1377 is cuss and obtain public comment After adopting Olver’s amend- Schneider National Inc., one of tinue driving. related to safety and insurance, on its authority to regulate the ment, the House then voted 397- the nation’s largest trucking com- EEOC said it filed suit after much of this information is unre- charter bus industry. 12 to pass the combined appropri- panies, accusing the carrier of dis- attempting to settle with the com- lated,” wrote McCown. “It seems Just over a year ago, the TSA ations bill. ability discrimination in firing a pany. clear that the requirements for a stunned the industry when it President Bush has threatened driver last year. Tom Vandenberg, Schneider certificate of public convenience or announced it would no longer per- to veto any bill containing Olver’s The federal suit claims corporate counsel, was quoted by necessity for common motor carri- form CVSA inspections. Now, amendment or a second amend- Schneider violated the Americans one newspaper as saying he ers under (Nevada law) as applied operators perform their own; call ment the House passed the same with Disabilities Act when it fired believed the company was in to charter bus service is inconsis- the Nevada Department of Trans- day, which would prevent enforce- a driver after a medical leave fol- “total compliance” with the tent with (federal statutes).” portation and ask them to come in ment of federal laws that keep lowing a fainting episode. Americans with Disabilities Act, In his letter, McCown threw and perform inspections, or stop at American students from studying The commission said in court and that the company’s “obliga- Nevada bureaucrats one bone, a Nevada Highway Patrol check in Cuba. documents that the driver has tion to public safety is paramount.” however. He said the state could point. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — October 15, 2004 — 5 THE DOCKET Jury awards $71 million in Texas crash, owner liable DALLAS — An appeal is by Rockmore’s attorney that a the lot in east Dallas where the bus snakes because it was too open. He judgment will be collected. Rock- expected of a $71 million verdict Texas rat snake found at the crash was parked the night before the also noted that snakes dislike more’s two-bus company was deci- against a Dallas operator whose scene my have startled Mr. Carter. wreck is bordered on two sides by a vibrations, which are common on mated by the crash and his insur- coach crashed into a concrete pil- The attorney said the snake may dense oak forest — prime habitat highways and highway overpasses. ance company, Republic Western lar more than two years ago, killing have crawled aboard the coach. for rat snakes. None of the survivors had seen Insurance of Phoenix, has insisted five and injuring 17 teenagers. Dr. Campbell testified that the He also said the area around a snake on the bus. that its $5 million policy was

A Dallas County jury found snake theory was plausible because the wreck was unsuitable for It is not at all clear how the CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 þ last month that Discovery Tours of Texas and its owner, Eric Rock- more, liable for the June 24, 2002, crash near Terrell, Texas. The jury of five men and seven women awarded $36 million to the family of a 15-year-old boy who was severely brain damaged in the crash; nearly $18 million to a 16- year-old girl who faces years of hip- replacement surgery; $13 million to a girl who lost a leg and was brain damaged, and the remaining Maybe next time. $4 million to 14 other teens who were injured. The bus was carrying a youth group from Metro Church in Garland, Texas, to a church camp in Louisiana when it hit a concrete abutment on Interstate 20. The crash largely disintegrated the bus, killing four children and the driver, Ernest Carter. Tests later showed that Mr. Carter was under the influence of cocaine and Valium at the time of the crash. Telephone records indi- cated Mr. Carter did not get the amount of rest hours-of-service rules require prior to getting behind the wheel. At issue at the trial was whether Rockmore knew before the trip that Mr. Carter was fatigued because he had just returned from a charter trip to Florida for a different company. Evidence at the trial indicated Rockmore hired Mr. Carter at the last minute even through the 51- I Increased fuel economy. With more coach fleets choosing ZF-AS Tronic, this scene is starting to become pretty familiar year-old driver had no sleep the night I 185,000 miles between oil with coach operators. Why? They just don’t need to stop for fuel as often anymore. A coach before, had not undergone drug test- changes; no paper filters. equipped with a ZF-AS Tronic transmission can eliminate fuel stops – due to our gearbox design that results in better efficiency versus powershift transmissions. ing before taking the job, and had an I Automatic and manual altered medical certificate. shifting modes. With ZF-AS Tronic on board, real in-service data reveals an average fuel gain of 10% – a result Survivors and their families I Easy-to-use touch pad supported by independently conducted testing, according to SAE standards. All of which claimed Rockmore negligently dis- operation; no clutch pedal. translates to lower maintenance costs, greater operating efficiency, and keeping to on-time patched Mr. Carter. During his I High-torque capacity up to schedules. The ZF-AS Tronic is a smooth, quiet, lightweight, fuel-efficient, completely time on the witness stand, Rock- 1850 ft-lbs. integrated transmission with the value-added benefits that fleet operators and drivers demand. more was accused by one attorney of “not caring” about who he hired, Specify ZF-AS Tronic...and put your coach to work for you. failing to adequately check Mr. Carter’s background and of falsify- ZF Industries, Inc. ing documents after the crash. “Do Heavy-Duty On-Highway Group you want to apologize to anyone in Vernon Hills, IL this courtroom for fabricating doc- 847.478.6868 uments?” the attorney for the E-Mail: [email protected] plaintiffs asked Rockmore. The attorney for Rockmore www.zf-group.com brought in a herpetologist who tes- tified that a snake may have spooked Mr. Carter, causing the wreck. Dr. Jonathan Campbell from Driveline and Chassis Technology the University of Texas at Arling- ton was asked to support a theory 6 — October 15, 2004 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS THE DOCKET EGR CSS to handle CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 2007 looms for engine makers division of Honeywell, to recover WASHINGTON — In just The government says it is working the new diesel sulfur standard of 15 some of the cost. over two years, the nation’s diesel with the engine companies and parts per million in 2006, says the operator audits EGR is the technology that engine makers must meet stricter refiners to assure low-sulfur diesel EPA. FAIRFAX, Va. — The Federal Detroit Diesel and most other U.S. federal environmental standards, fuel is readily available, enabling The agency’s analysis of more Motor Carrier Safety Adminis- diesel engine makers adopted two requiring them to further reduce advanced emission-control tech- than 120 refineries showed that tration has contracted with Con- years ago to meet tighter U.S. EPA engine emissions. nology in the new diesels. suppliers are positioned to comply solidated Safety Services Inc. to pollution rules that went into effect In October 2002, the last time No one is guaranteeing, how- with the standard and that the perform safety audits of new bus in October 2002. the engine builders had to meet ever, that prices for both diesel fuel new fuel will be available nation- and truck companies. The EGR cooler that is being tougher emissions rules, they and engines won’t leap frog once wide. Consolidated Safety Services replaced lowers the temperature of rushed engines to market that met again. Item: The EPA was forced to will perform what are called New the exhaust gas that is returned to the standards but at a cost: reduced Periodically between now and abandon its plans to develop what Entrant Safety Audits under the the combustion chamber. fuel economy, questions about reli- 2007, Bus & Motorcoach News will it called “clean corridors” in which $2.6 million contract for the year The fix is being made because ability and higher price tags. report milestones in the develop- fleets could buy ultra-low-sulfur that began Oct. 1. leaks have shown up in EGR cool- The engine companies, along ment and introduction of the 2007 fuel next year to test 2007 diesel Under a FMCSA rule that ers or in the piping at what is called with the government, appear reduced-emission engines and the engines under actual operating went into effect Jan. 1, 2003, all the “exhaust joint.” The replace- determined to avoid that same 2006 reduced-sulfur diesel fuel. conditions. “new entrant motor carriers” are ment cooler has a slightly different bumpy road when the new engines Item: The U.S. Environmental “Based on our discussions with supposed to have completed a shape and the plumbing has begin dropping into over-the-road Protection Agency announced at the stakeholders, there is general safety audit within 18 months of improved fasteners to the cooler. bus and truck engine compart- the end of last month that fuel consensus there is no longer a need receiving a U.S. DOT number. Detroit already has begun mak- ments in 2007. refiners will be ready to supply for EPA to facilitate a clean corri- The audit is designed to evaluate ing repairs to vehicles when they The engine builders say the cleaner diesel fuel. dor stakeholder process,” said the adequacy of their safety man- come in for routine warranty work. new power plants will get plenty of Of the almost 3 million barrels Margo Oge, director of EPA’s agement practices. The company plans to make the early, on-the-road testing before of highway diesel produced daily Office of Transportation and Air Consolidated Safety Services fixes even if the initial EGR en- they are released for general use. in the U.S., 95 percent will meet Quality. says it has been hired to supple- gines are exhibiting no problems. Republic Western paid $5 million parties in the case, including ABC ment the efforts of state agencies Few were surprised that early Lawsuit to other victims of the crash. That Bus Companies, which leased the to assure compliance with the rule. EGR engines developed problems. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 action provided the opening for bus to Rockmore, and Green’s Consolidated Safety Services The engines were rushed into cancelled before the crash. There the suit that resulted in the $71 Transportation, which had been has been performing transporta- development and production with is currently a federal suit over million award. hired by the church to transport tion safety services, for the relatively little on-the-road or real- whether the policy was in force. Each of the plaintiffs also has the teen group but turned the con- Department of Defense for 14 world testing. However, lawyers noted that received settlements from other tract over to Rockmore. years. CHARTER WHEELCHAIR LIFTS Dump Installation and Retrofits CLEAN... Dump LEGAL!

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MCI Fleet Support Parts • Service • Technical Support • Warranty • Product Assurance • Technician Training • Roadside Assistance MCI Sales & Service Locations West Southwest Midwest Southeast East Canada MOTOR COACH Los Alamitos, CA Dallas, TX Des Plaines, IL Orlando, FL Blackwood, NJ Montreal, PQ INDUSTRIES 800 777-4101 800 248-4942 800 743-3624 800 390-0287 800 262-1287 800 663-3328 or visit www.mcicoach.com for a complete listing of authorized MCI Service Centers. We are America’s coach. © Motor Coach Industries, Inc. 2004, All Rights Reserved 8 — October 15, 2004 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS OPINION Low Priority Online fraud: Avoid these scams We have opined in this space adopt broad-based security en- Fraud has become widespread bers, from a PC by hacking into it instruct them not to reply to sus- before how grateful (and relieved) hancement legislation. Implement- and insidious on the Internet. and installing software. picious-looking e-mails. we are that federal security experts ing 9/11 Commission recommen- And it’s not only consumers One of the most common Install antivirus software on don’t consider the over-the-road dations is viewed as “must-pass” who are at risk. “Businesses are a ploys for stealing sensitive data is your company server and update it bus industry to be a very likely tar- legislation by many in Washington. common target,” says Auburn, when a scammer sends an individ- regularly. get of terrorists. It is possible, and maybe even Calif.-based security consultant ual or business an authentic-look- Install a spyware detection Since 9/11, the federal govern- likely, that the combined public Dennis Dalton. ing e-mail message stating that program, such as Lavasoft’s Ad- ment has pumped at least $11 bil- transit-intercity bus security bill will Last year, more than 55 per- the individual or business bank Aware or Spybot-Search& De- lion into airline security, while less get rolled into an omnibus security cent of the 300,000 fraud com- account or credit card will be stroy, and security patches, on than $20 million has been spent on bill and see congressional action. plaints received by the Federal blocked unless immediate action each of your company’s PCs. the coach industry. Another $9.9 The bill that was introduced by Trade Commission were Web- is taken. Check your statements thor- million currently is in the pipeline the House members contains a laun- related. Internet Fraud Watch, a When the recipient clicks on oughly and question any suspi- for coach operators. dry list of improvements that federal Washington, D.C., organization the link provided in the message, cious charges immediately. That means that for every security grants would help private that tracks online crime, reports he or she lands at a phony Web View your business checking $1,100 spent on airline security, $2 operators install. These include: that the average loss per instance site that collects account num- account activity in real time with has made its way to the private bus • Constructing and modifying rose from $468 in 2002 to $527 bers, Social Security data and online banking services. industry. terminals, garages, facilities, or last year. other sensitive information. “The That lopsided ratio may be a over-the-road buses to assure their “Criminals are getting more thief can then use the business’ Small businesses tips reflection of the relative security security. aggressive and clever, and the vir- name and reputation to commit Young Businesses risk faced by airlines versus over- • Protecting or isolating the tual nature of online communica- crimes,” says Dalton. • Establish bank, credit card the-road buses — if the experts are driver. tions creates greater risk,” says Another vexing problem is accounts and Internet service correct. • Installing equipment, soft- Dave Nielsen, founder of Fight- spyware, programs that install with large, reputable companies Yet, there are those who contin- ware or services to collect, store or IdentifyTheft.com, a Web site that themselves on your computer that you know. ue to advocate for more federal secu- exchange passenger and driver provides news, information and without your knowledge, allowing • Don’t respond to e-mail ads rity money for the coach industry. information. tips about online fraud and iden- the perpetrator to glean informa- and spam from unknown compa- Last month, members of the • Training employees in recog- tity theft. tion directly from the PC, even nies. House Transportation and Infra- nizing and responding to security with a secure browser connection. • Get bids and business agree- structure Committee introduced threats, evacuation procedures, The faces of fraud ments signed in writing, not just legislation that would make avail- passenger screening procedures, “Phishing” is Internet lingo for Fraud protection electronic form. able billions of dollars in new secu- and baggage inspection. schemes in which scammers trick Combating Internet fraud rity funding for public transit agen- • Installing cameras and video victims into volunteering personal requires a focus on key areas. Established Businesses cies, plus $150 million in security surveillance equipment on over- data such as Social Security and Nielson says that a recipient of an • Check all bills and invoices grants for the over-the-road bus the-road buses and at terminals, bank account numbers. authentic-looking e-mail from a carefully, particularly bills for the Yel- industry. garages, and over-the-road bus But phishing isn’t the only bank or the IRS never should low Pages and business directories. The bill is the third such piece facilities. scheme being perpetrated by click on it and respond. “[Finan- • Don’t provide financial or of legislation to come down the “This bill provides the funding scammers. The list of online cial institutions] do not send out account information to anyone pike in the past three years. And continuity that the industry needs crimes is growing. Although iden- requests for information via e- who e-mails or calls. ordinarily its fate would seem to maintain and enhance its secu- tify theft and outright non-deliv- mail,” he says. • Educate employees about uncertain at best. After all, it was rity,” said ABA President Charles ery of purchased goods receive the If there’s a need to check fraud. introduced with less than a month Zelle, president of Jefferson Lines most attention, criminals also are information online, it’s essential left in the 108th Congress, includ- in Minneapolis. turning to credit repair schemes, to navigate directly to the Web Mature Businesses ing the expected post-election “There are approximately 4,000 charity scams, cramming (unau- site and conduct business there. • Steer clear of unknown lame-duck session. private bus operators in the united thorized charges on a bill), slam- Better yet, call the company and charities or check an organization Plus, being at heart a money bill, States and to date only approxi- ming (changing your phone serv- verify the request for information. out before donating. its prospects of gaining much trac- mately 200 bus operators or trade ice without authorization), bogus • Ensure that only authorized tion would seem doubly unlikely. associations have been able to invoices, and other techniques. Avoiding scammers employees have access to account However, Congress is under a receive any grant money,” Zelle In some cases, crooks steal Educate your employees about information and core business data. lot of pressure, stemming from the noted, adding “this bill would data, including credit card num- the threat of online fraud and 9/11 Commission and its report, to begin to redress this imbalance…” Source: Wells Fargo Bank.

How to contact us: ISSUE NO. 40 Jeff Polzien To submit or report news, Letters to the Red Carpet Tours To contact the United Motorcoach Oklahoma City Editor, articles: Association: A PUBLICATION OF THE UNITED MOTORCOACH ASSOCIATION E-mail: [email protected] Call: (800) 424-8262 Robert L. Quick Quick-Livick Inc. Fax: (877) 510-5598 or (877) 510-5602 Online: www.uma.org Staff Advisory Board Stauton, Va. Mail: 717 West Pierson #160 Phoenix, AZ 85013 To send advertisements or Editor & Publisher Alex Allen Todd Holland Tom Ready photographs via the Internet: Amador Stage Lines Ramblin' Express Ready Bus Lines Call: (623) 930-8423 Victor Parra Sacramento, Calif. Colorado Springs LaCrescent, Minn. E-mail: [email protected] To advertise or to mail advertising- Upload: www.jezac.com/uploads Sales Director Senior Editor Bob Brisman Robert Hume Bill Rohrbaugh Johnny Steger West Point Trailways Travel Mates Trailways Bill Rohrbaugh's Charter Services related materials: Bruce Sankey Vails Gate, N.Y. Harrisonburg, Va. Manchester, Md. To subscribe or inquire about your Call: Johnny Steger subscription: Government Editor Associate Editor David Brown Daryl G. Johnson Brian Scott (602) 980-0840 or (623) 930-8422 Norman Littler Ellen Balm Holiday Tours J & J Charters Escot Bus Lines E-mail: [email protected] Call: (623) 930-8421 Randlemann, N.C. Crosby, Texas Largo, Fla. Mail: Post Office Box 12903 E-mail: [email protected] Fax: (877) 510-5602 Editorial Assistant Editorial Assistant Bob Foley Godfrey LeBron John Silvanie Tempe, AZ 85284 ABC Companies Paradise Trailways Suburban Charter Services or (877) 510-5598 Tara Sheehan Amy Stalknecht Faribault, Minn. West Hempstead, N.Y. White Plains, N.Y. To complain: Mail: 717 West Pierson #160 Phoenix, AZ 85013 Accountant Editorial Assistant Steve Haddad Joan Libby Alan Spachman Carl R. Bieber Tourways Cavalier Coach National Interstate Insurance Co Call: (623) 930-8421 John Giddens Melissa Harden E-mail: [email protected] Kutstown, Pa. Boston, Mass. Richfield, Ohio ©2004 by the United Motorcoach Association. Reproduction in whole or in part without Art Director Rick Hillard Warren Miller T. Ralph Young written permission is prohibited. Tri-State Tours Pacific Coach Bus Service Young Transportation Mary E. McCarty Galena, Ill. San Francisco, Calif. Ashville, N.C. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — October 15, 2004 — 9 INDUSTRY NEWS Expo’s Maintenance Interchange is valuable resource LAS VEGAS — One of the the Expo Web site, www.motor- women from all over the country is invaluable resource for your main- participate in the Maintenance In- motorcoach industry’s best re- coachexpo.com, or by e-mailing to truly priceless… . The knowledge tenance team, watch for registra- terchange at no additional charge. sources for solving thorny mainte- [email protected]. that is gained and the friendships tion forms in Bus and Motorcoach Begin thinking now about your nance problems will be available to In the weeks leading up to the that are made make each inter- News, other publications, and in biggest maintenance problems, as attendees of Motorcoach Expo Expo, participants receive a com- change a pleasure to be a part of.” the mail. well as solutions to problems you 2005. plete list of the problems submitted To take advantage of this Full registrants of Expo may may be able to pass along to others. The 7th annual Maintenance for discussion, allowing the ex- Interchange on Wednesday, Feb. change to be as fruitful as possible. 23, will give motorcoach owners, Past participants have found managers and maintenance per- the interchange to be extremely sonnel an invaluable opportunity helpful in both improving the to openly discuss critical mainte- maintenance of their equipment nance issues. and saving money. Vendors, suppliers, manufac- “The technical discussions and turers and sales personnel are solutions that are presented are excluded from Maintenance Inter- specific to the products we are change sessions, which remain maintaining on a daily basis,” said exclusively operator-to-operator Dave Bolen of Virginia-based New exchanges. The restricted format World Tours. “I have found them has proven highly effective in facil- to be useful in reducing the life- itating the problem-solving pro- cycle cost of our fleet.” cess. The year-after-year success of The day-long interchange ses- the interchange has made it a pop- sion is devoted to finding solutions ular feature at Expo. In fact, for pressing maintenance prob- Michael Costable, superintendent lems. Prior to the interchange, par- of maintenance at White Plains ticipants submit particular issues Bus Co., describes it as “the high- they would like to see discussed. light of UMA’s Expo… . To sit in a The topics are submitted through room for eight hours with men and ‘Bookstore Tourism’ book pushes coach travel idea HARRISBURG, Pa. — Larry Portzline, the writer and part-time college instructor, who pushes a motorcoach-based travel program called “bookstore tourism,” has written a book on the concept. Titled, Bookstore Tourism: The Book Addict’s Guide to Planning & Promoting Bookstore Road Trips for Bibliophiles & Other Bookshop Junk- ies, the book became available ear- lier this month. Portzline says his goal for the book is to promote and support independent bookstores by market- “loading booklovers onto a bus and ing them as a tourist destination taking them to towns with great and creating a new travel niche for bookshops is one way to reverse booklovers. (See July 1 issue of Bus that trend,” says Portzline. & Motorcoach News.) Bookstore Tourism covers the His how-to book encourages basics of planning and promoting a book nuts to plan and conduct bookstore road trip, including how “bookstore road trips” with friends, to do the necessary research, organizations and even their com- arrange transportation, publicize munities’ economic development the event, and the like. It includes agencies. tips, step-by-step suggestions, and During the past year, Portzline advice based on Portzline’s experi- has led more than a half-dozen, ences leading his own trips. sold-out “bookstore adventures” on Portzline says the book is avail- motorcoaches to New York City able at independent bookstores. It’s and Washington, D.C. also listed in Books in Print, and is Destinations, the American Bus being distributed by Ingram, meaning Association travel magazine, has it’s available from the major chain called the bookstore tourism model bookstores and online booksellers. “a tremendous market.” Portzline calls that “poetic justice.” With independent bookstores For more information, go to fast becoming a thing of the past, www.BookstoreTourism.com. 10 — October 15, 2004 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS INDUSTRY NEWS coaches, the average number of they would not hire someone. “The to spokesman David Longo. The are likely to continue hiring older Insurance miles the coaches are driven, and reality is that there are many driv- Federal Aviation Administration, drivers because the industry attracts CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 the type of maintenance program ers closer to age 65 than 25 and however, mandates that commer- many people who are starting a sec- information to help them evaluate the company has to keep its fleet in that is the business we operate in cial airlines cannot employ people ond career after retiring from other how they deal with older drivers. good running condition and we understand that,” he said. as pilots after they reach 60. jobs. “A lot of them are over 50 “I can understand where a “If they don’t have established O’Neill said Lancer relies on Brown said that while he had when they begin,” he said. “They motorcoach operator may think we maintenance practices, we don’t government regulations that given little thought to the age of his want to retire from some desk job are trying to charge more but that is look any further because we don’t require motorcoach drivers to take drivers in the past, he was astound- or truck driving job and do some- not the case,” said Alan Spachman, think that management is doing an and pass physical examinations ed when he checked the age of his thing that is a little more fun, so president of National Interstate. acceptable job in maintaining their every two years to retain their com- 100 drivers for his insurance renew- they drive a coach.” “We don’t charge more for older vehicles,” Spachman said. mercial license. “If they pass the al application and found that more They are needed, too, he con- drivers; it is either we take them or Lancer Insurance Co., the larg- physical requirements, then they than 20 percent of them are 65 tends, to resolve staffing problems don’t take them.” est insurer of motorcoach opera- are OK by us,” he added. years or older. “That was really sur- created by the industry’s cyclical He said National Interstate tors, said it does not consider the David Brown, owner of Holiday prising,” he added. nature of being overwhelmed with expects carriers to pay closer atten- age of drivers when preparing a Tours in Randleman, N.C., said He said he is not aware of any business a third of the year, moder- tion to older drivers than younger quote. Instead, the company looks that while he has not been threat- of his older drivers being involved ately busy another third and slow a operators, making sure they receive closely at the accident history of ened with reprisals because of the in more accidents than younger final third. “It is very difficult to vigorous physical examinations to drivers and the amount of losses age of his drivers, his latest insur- drivers and is confident they are staff under those circumstances,” assure they are still capable of safely claimed by a carrier. ance renewal form did ask him the just as safe and professional. he notes. driving a coach. “Age is not something we really number of drivers he employed Still, he suggested the question The federal Equal Employment “If they do that and the physi- focus on,” said Lancer Vice Pres- who were over the age of 65 and if of age is one federal officials should Opportunity Commission, which cals are all satisfactory, then our ident Randy O’Neill. “The under- his company had a maximum age address. “Would you want someone investigates and prosecutes dis- company would insure them,” said writing decision is always looking for hiring or retaining drivers. 90 years old driving your coach crimination cases, said it has not Spachman. “But if they don’t do in the rear view mirror, what has “They know we can’t have a with 40 people in it? I don’t know, addressed the insurance issue anything to address older drivers or happened in the past. A person’s maximum age for drivers and if I but I would like a determination involving the age of drivers and if the physicals come back and say birth certificate has very little, if said we did I would be showing dis- that would tell us what guidelines would not comment on it. “We these people have higher risks or anything, to do with a premium crimination,” he said, adding that we should be using,” he said. have taken no position on this problems and should not be driving quote.” he got around the question by Littler agrees, saying operators issue,” said commission spokesman and the company lets them drive, He said Lancer does not have a replying that his hiring practices need to know what they can and James Ryan. we don’t want that risk.” position on carriers hiring older meet federal and state laws. cannot do when hiring drivers. Ryan declined to offer sugges- Spachman said the age issue is drivers, and he said he would be The Federal Motor Carrier “They certainly need some advice tions for what a carrier might do if part of a much broader evaluation surprised if it questioned carriers Safety Administration does not so they know what to do when the its insurance company suggested it of each operator’s management regarding how many over-65 driv- have regulations regarding a maxi- insurance companies come pound- reduce the number of employees it practices that includes such items ers they have on their staff, or if mum age for someone to drive a ing,” he said. has over age 65 to retain its insur- as the average age of the company’s they have a maximum age at which commercial motorcoach, according Brown maintains that carriers ance coverage. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — October 15, 2004 — 11 INDUSTRY NEWS Raz, Gray Line-Portland to become part of CUSA DALLAS — A newly formed The acquisition is the second by CUSA Raz LLC, a new sub- to operate as a stand alone business first coach operation in Oregon. subsidiary of CUSA, the nation’s CUSA — inside of a month — of a sidiary of CUSA, signed a letter of under local management and using The company currently has opera- largest charter and tour bus com- western operator. On Oct. 1, CUSA’s intent last month to acquire the the Raz and Gray Line names. Raz tions in 18 major markets of the pany, is buying the largest motor- subsidiary in Phoenix, Arrow Stages assets of Raz Transportation, which drivers and staff are being offered West and Southwest. coach operator in Oregon, Raz Lines, completed the purchase of also operates as Gray Line of Port- employment with the new company. The Raz deal is expected to Transportation Co. of Portland. Gray Line Sightseeing of Phoenix. land. The company will continue The acquisition marks CUSA’s close within the next few weeks. Calendar OCTOBER 2004 12 North Carolina Motorcoach Association Annual Picnic and Business Meeting for Operator Members, Young Transportation, Asheville, N.C. Info: (336) 495- 4970 or go to www.ncmotorcoach.org.

23 Annual Meeting and Bus Day, Museum of Bus Trans- portation, Hershey, Pa. Info: Go to www.busmuseum.com.

23 – 28 Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance Fall Workshop, John Ascuaga’s Nugget Hotel, Sparks, Nev. Info: www.cvsa.org.

24 – 26 UITP Bus Conference, Brisbane, Australia. Info: Go to www.uitp.com or call +32 2 673 6100.

24 – 27 National Conference on Rural Public and Intercity Bus Transportation, Roanoke, Va. Info: Go to http://trb.org/calendar/ events.asp?id=124.

27 – 29 Travel Industry Associa- tion Marketing Outlook Forum, Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, Scottsdale, AZ. Info: Go to www.tia.org. We Know Your Equipment Like

29 – Nov. 2 California Bus the Back of Our Hand. Association 31st Annual Con- vention & Trade Show, John Our number 1 ranking in pre-owned sales, also makes ABC the foremost expert in servicing Ascuagas’ Nugget, Sparks, most every coach make and model on the road. With Certified Service Centers nationwide and The most qualified, Nev. Info: (831) 633-1755 o r g o  world-class vendor partners like Allison, Amaya, Carrier, Caterpillar, Cummins, Detroit Diesel, highly-trained to www.cbabus.com. ProHeat, REI, Ricon and ZF, it’s no wonder fleet owners rely on our team of expert technicians technicians available to pinpoint and resolve equipment issues before they become major problems. 31 – Nov. 4 National Assn. for  State-of-the-art facilities nationwide Pupil Transportation Annual For hands-on fleet maintenance, drive in or call any ABC Service location nationwide. Conference, Cincinatti. Info: Plus, now convenient parts purchasing is right at your fingertips at ABC Parts Source online  Advanced vehicle systems and diagnostics (518) 452-3611 or go to at www.abc-companies.com www.napt.org.  Comprehensive parts inventory in-stock SERVICE SPECIALS  Easy, online parts ordering NOVEMBER 2004 and tracking All bus makes & models. Valid through January 31, 2005: 6–10 Canadian Urban Transit Assn. Fall Conference & Expo, Transmission Service Montreal. Info: (416) 365-9800 or Oil & Filter Change Air Dryer go to www.cutaactu.ca.

7-10 Ontario Motor Coach MIDWEST NORTHEAST SOUTHEAST SOUTHWEST WESTERN Association 2004 Conference 800-222-2875 800-222-2873 800-222-2871 800-222-2877 800-322-2877 and Marketplace, Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel. Info: www.abc-companies.com (416) 361-1000 or go to www.omca.com. 12 — October 15, 2004 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS INDUSTRY NEWS were encouraged to hear how pas- FTA sionate Ose was in his commitment CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 to continue fighting the issue even Ms. Dorn struggled even to though he retires from Congress in come up with a definition for char- January. Sources said several mem- ter service after Ose and other bers of the committee and others members of the committee asked have shown genuine concern for her for an explanation. The defini- the coach industry’s battle with the tion is important because public FTA and the transit agencies it fails Rep. Doug Ose FTA Administrator Jennifer Dorn agencies are prohibited by federal to rein in. law from providing charter bus For example, Rep. Patrick while public agencies put taxpayer service. Tiberi, R-Ohio, who has been men- money at risk. At both the May and Septem- tioned as the next in line to take A representative from Oleta ber hearings, the subcommittee lis- Ose’s seat as chairman of the sub- Coach Lines Inc., a Williamsburg- tened to executives from private committee, was one of a handful of based company that provides a shut- bus operators provide real-world committee members present at the tle service through Williamsburg examples of public agencies offer- hearing. He also asked several ques- and surrounding areas, described his ing charter service in competition tions of Administrator Dorn. Rep. experience when the Williamsburg 50s Greyhound coach with the private companies. Ernest Istook, R-Okla., also is an public transit agency launched a “In some instances it’s relative- industry supporter; he chairs the competitive service free of charge. is recreated by ABC ly subjective,” said Ms. Dorn. “Each House Transportation and Treasury The agency was able to use case is evaluated on its own merit.” Appropriations subcommittee. Department of Interior and De- HERSEY, Pa. — The Museum purchased new by the Quaker City The FTA administrator also “Members of the subcommittee partment of Transportation funds to of Bus Transportation has filled a Bus Co. of Philadelphia in 1952 was questioned on specific cases in and other committees of the House launch the service and sustain it free major hole in its collection with and had four successive owners, which private companies have for- have committed to continuing the of charge to passengers. (See Oct. 1 the addition of a vintage Grey- including Safeway Trails Inc., and mally complained that a public examination of how the private issue of Bus & Motorcoach News.) hound coach. Blue Bird Coach Lines of Olean, agency was competing with them. sector is utilized in the federal tran- After Oleta filed a formal com- The museum commissioned N.Y. It was one of a handful of his- Ose focused specifically on a case in the ABC Companies of Faribault, toric buses owned by Blue Bird’s sit program,” said Steven Diaz, for- plaint with the regional office of Sacramento, Calif., where the pub- Minn., to create an authentic principal, Louis Magnano, who mer chief counsel for the FTA and the FTA, the agency ruled in favor Greyhound — circa 1950 — by donated them to the museum lic transit agency took over a 25- a private-practice attorney. Diaz of the local agency despite the fact restoring a General Motors’ model about five years ago. year competitively awarded con- also testified at the hearing. it had violated several non-com- PD4103 to Greyhound specifica- Using original factory photos tract from a private operator, The second part of the hearing pete statutes, said David Smith of tions. and research for guidance, the staff Amador Stage Lines. focused on cases of private compa- Oleta. “It’s pretty hard to have a bus at ABC’s regional service center in The congressman accused the nies being hurt by public agencies Jerome Cooper, chairman of museum without a Greyhound,” said Camden, N.J., recreated an essen- agency of not enforcing its rules in stepping in to take over bus servic- the Transit Alliance and president museum President Tom Collins. tially authentic Greyhound model. that case and not following up with es or to compete with the private of Jamaica Buses Inc., a New York- The finished, refurbished coach The Greyhound Bus Origin the agency after finding it was non- company already providing public based operator in Queens, Brook- features a period “blue-green” Grey- Museum in Hibbing, Minn., aided compliant. Ose told Ms. Dorn that transit to a community, including lyn and Manhattan, explained how hound paint scheme, signature in the restoration. the incident was a “screw-up” on Washington, D.C., New York City New York City had failed to apply Greyhound artwork, and Southeast “ABC did a gorgeous job,” said the part of the FTA. and Williamsburg, Va. for DOT funds to help the compa- Greyhound Lines’ signage. Collins. “It looks great.” Ms. Dorn maintained that her Dan Tangherlini, director of ny replace its aging buses. Cooper Of the 1,501 original PD4103 The project was spearheaded by agency was “supportive of enabling the District of Columbia Depart- said the city strategy was to show coaches built by the GM Coach & Clancy Cornell, founder of ABC private-sector transportation ment of Transportation, argued what a poor job the private compa- Truck Division from 1950-52, Companies and a member of the because it allows more robust trans- that the proposed D.C. Circulator, ny does in providing mass transit in Greyhound bought 709. The unit museum board. Cornell has been portation.” a bus service in Washington that an effort to take over the service. that was converted to a Greyhound an active and enthusiastic support- At one point in the hearing, would overlap similar services pro- Coach industry executives are was No. 1296 and in excellent er of the museum, soliciting mem- Ose asked Ms. Dorn if her agency vided by Tourmobile Sightseeing hopeful the Ose hearings will result mechanical condition with no berships and personally contribut- had approved funding the and others, is necessary because of in more investigations by Congress major body damage. ing both time and money in excess Sacramento agency knowing it had the growth experienced by the city and eventually inspire stronger Collins said PD4103s were not of $100,000. violated FTA rules. Ms. Dorn during the past 10 years. oversight of FTA and make its reg- used on Greyhound mainline oper- According to Bob Bertsch, replied she was unaware whether it ations, never quite achieving operations manager at ABC New “The district has added a city ulations clearer to public agencies. had or not. “front-line status.” By contrast, Jersey, the entire team involved in the size of downtown Denver in the They would also like to see GM built 5,065 of the more popu- the restoration shared Cornell’s Ose then asked one of the FTA last decade, while we have elimi- improvements in how public agen- lar air-ride PD4104s during the zeal. “This was an exciting and fun staff members attending the hear- nated 70 percent of all short-term cies notify private companies about years 1953-60. project,” said Bertsch. “Everyone at ing to use his BlackBerry to e-mail surface parking, reduced available transit opportunities. Drivers called the 4103s ABC New Jersey participated in the question to someone at the roadways through security closures “Either the FTA will get the “Henry Js” (after the small car some way. Recreating exact dupli- agency’s headquarters who may and have not added a single bus message that Congress expects introduced by Henry J. Kaiser and cates of the famous Greyhound know. The answer was not provid- route to help people move about them to enforce the law and not his Kaiser-Frazier Corp. in 1951) dogs for the sides of the coach was ed publicly before the end of the downtown,” he said. just give a wink and a nudge, or because they were lighter than pre- exceptionally challenging.” hearing. (BlackBerry devices are Tommy Mack, chairman of Congress needs to change the law vious Greyhound coaches. The bus is on display at the electronic communication tools Tourmobile, argued that the private to make it more effective,” said The refurbished 4103 was museum. that allow individuals to send and sector is much better equipped to Norm Littler, senior vice president receive e-mail wherever they go.) provide the proposed circulator for government and industry rela- Museum meeting is this month Motorcoach industry people service because it could more easily tions for the United Motorcoach HERSHEY, Pa. — Both mem- special displays inside and out, a attending the hearing said they change routes based on ridership, Association. bers and non-members are invited dinner, and a trip to the bus-rail to attend the annual meeting of the intermodal station in Harrisburg. Museum of Bus Transportation on To register to attend, contact Highway bill will mean an additional $940 mil- Months ago, the Senate ap- Saturday, Oct. 23, at the museum’s Tom Collins at (215) 580-7979 or lion for highway construction. proved a $318 billion package, facility here. (717) 566-7100, or John Docken- CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Congress passed the extension while the House adopted a $284 Besides the 2 p.m. meeting, dorf at (717) 787-1220. All activi- year to assure the 2.5-cents-per-gal- because the House, Senate and the billion bill. However, the White which is expected to last about an ties are included in the price of a lon tax on ethanol is deposited into White House were unable to agree House recommended $256 billion hour, there will be a number of $50 dinner ticket, which includes a the Highway Trust Fund rather on a funding level for the next six- and threatened to veto any bill that activities, including museum tours, donation to the museum. than the general fund. That change year highway bill. would add to the deficit. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — October 15, 2004 — 13 NEW DELIVERIES Starr Tours Trenton, N.J. Starr Tours, which has been providing travel ser- vices for more than 55 years, has added three H3-45 Prevost coaches to its fleet. John Gillispie, company president, said Starr tours began buying Prevost coaches six years ago and now has 15, roughly 25 percent of the company’s entire fleet. “Motorcoaches are a significant investment for our company and we want to ensure we make sound coach than 100 destinations, and provides corporate and purchasing decisions,” said Gillispie. “The Prevost H3- convention shuttle services. 45 has been very popular with our tour brokers who The company’s new Prevosts are equipped with Annett Bus Lines demand high-end coaches. This is just one of the rea- Detroit Diesel Series 60 engines, ZF-AS Tronic trans- Sebring, Fla sons why we keep buying Prevost coaches.” missions, Jake Brakes, National passenger and driver Starr Tours is a family owned business operating in seats, Holdsworth fabric, Carrier A/C, REI A/V sys- Annett Bus Lines, which has hausen driver seats. the U.S. and eastern Canada. It offers tours to more tems with four monitors, and Firestone tires. been operating Prevost coaches for Brian Annett, president of the nearly 25 years, has acquired two company bearing his family name, new Prevost H3-45s. Annett has a said that by purchasing Prevost Harry’s Motorcoach Tours fleet of 52 coaches, 51 of which are coaches he can carrying on a tradi- Prevosts. tion. “My father (Eric) founded the Wanamingo, Minn. Annett provides charter coach business in 1976 and bought his A company that has been organizing motorcoach services, sightseeing, convention first Prevost in 1980. Over the tours for 14 years has purchased its first bus, a MCI services and airport transfers in Flor- years we have built a great relation- model J4500. ida and the southeastern United ship with them and so choosing Harry’s Motorcoach Tours, operated by Harry and States. Most of its coaches are avail- Prevost this time around was only Dianne Wright and their son, David, has taken deliv- able with card tables and galleys. natural. ery of their new J coach. The newest Prevosts in the “We have always had great The Wrights operate tours throughout the United company fleet have Detroit Diesel service from the people at Prevost States and Canada. This year, they are sending groups Series 60 engines, ZF-AS Tronic and in our business that’s very to such diverse locations as Mackinac Island, the Black Caterpillar C13 engine and ZF-AS Tronic transmis- transmissions, REI entertainment important. Also, the resale value of Hills, Nashville, Branson, Chicago, Amish country in sion. It also is spec’d with Amaya seating and a six- systems with four monitors, Amaya Prevost coaches is higher than the Indiana, Door County in Wisconsin, and Nova Scotia. monitor entertainment system from REI. Graphics for seats, Carrier air conditioning, competition, which is definitely an The Wrights’ new coach is equipped with a the coach are by Vernon and Maz. Ricon wheelchair lifts, and Isring- advantage,” Annett added. 14 — October 15, 2004 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS INDUSTRY NEWS

winged midsize bus that was pro- People duced during the 1990s, has joined C LASSIFIED A DVERTISING The American Bus Association Creative Mobile Interiors of Grove has recognized Sen. Richard Shelby, City, Ohio, as director of sales and R-Ala., and Rep. Nydia Velazquez, business development. PREVOSTS FOR SALE D-N.Y., as its Legislators of the Year. Laidlaw International announced Peter Pan Bus Lines has pro- the resignation of Vicki A. moted Peter Figueros to manager O’Meara from its board of direc- of its terminal in Hartford, Conn., tors. Ms. O’Meara, the chief of cor- and named Lizzette Burgos ticket porate operations for Ryder Sys- counter manager at the terminal. tems, resigned for personal business Andy Mauck, developer of the reasons. Laidlaw is the parent com- Mauck Special Vehicle, a gull- pany of Greyhound Lines. Rep. Nydia Velazquez, D-N.Y. 2) 1996 Prevost H3-45s, 1998 Prevost H3-45 48 passenger 56 passenger Detroit Series 60 Detroit Series 60 B500 Allisons B500 Allison Jake Brakes Jake Brake Special Offer! 4 monitors, w/cassette 4 monitors, w/cassette VCP/PA/AM/FM VSP/PA/AM/FM Reclining seats Reclining seats Save BIG on Footrests, lavatory Footrests, lavatory THE Big Fat Bus Book Priced to sell at Priced to sell at $114,000/each $199,000 THE Big Fat Bus Vehicles are well maintained and in excellent condition. Maintenance records available. Book on CD Contact Gary Agnes, Ramblin Express Inc. & Order today! 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All prices include shipping and handling. Bus & Motorcoach NEWS is published on the 1st and 15th of the names, locations and telephone The Big Fat Bus Book numbers of thousands of people, For fastest service, fax the month. Ad deadlines are one week prior to publication. is the whole enchilada. businesses, organizations and form below toll-free to: Please print or type your advertising copy. If you prefer, print or type associations that compose (877) 510-5598 or The Big Fat Bus Book on CD (877) 510-5602 your ad on a separate sheet and attach to this form. All Classified the North American bus industry • Gives you access to a wealth of informa- Advertising must be accompanied by payment before insertion. • Yellow Pages guide to bus industry tion and data on your PC or laptop The VISA, MasterCard and American Express cards are accepted. products and services • Contains all the same information Big Fat that’s in the printed Big Fat Bus Book Type of ad you prefer: __Display__Line • Sections organized to reflect the Bus Book Samples and ad rates on reverse side. • Allows you to quickly locate just the different segments of the bus industry is produced by Number of issues you would like this ad to appear in: 1 2 3 4 5 6 More?__ information you need the Bus Publications Group • Accurately alphabetized for easy use • Is as easy to use as the printed 717 W. Pierson, #160 Name ______• U.S. and Canada – all states, Big Fat Bus Book Phoenix, AZ 85013 Person Authorizing Advertisement - Please Print provinces and territories (623) 930-8421 Company ______Address______Name City State Zip ______The Guide to the North American Bus Industry Title Signature______Company Yes. I want to subscribe to the Credit Card Information Address 2004 Motorcoach Directory on CD Card No. ______for only $65 (includes S&H).* City State Zip Expiration Date ______Yes. I want to subscribe to the Phone Fax 2004 Motorcoach Directory printed E-mail Name on Card ______version for only $75 (includes S&H).** Credit Card No. Fax or Mail this form to Bus & Motorcoach NEWS Yes. 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EXPO 2005 will be the biggest and best industry event ever! Including some exciting additions to this year’s show… • Industry leaders will gather at the first ever State Association Summit • New Solution Sessions covering sales, pricing, cost management, contract work, and marketing lessons from other industries and much, much more! • The 1st Annual Ray Dupuis Golf Tournament in honor of one of our industry’s leaders and a UMA founder • Many exciting new products to see on the exhibit floor PLUS • The always popular UMA Maintenance Interchange • And the highlight of last year’s EXPO….the 2nd Annual UMA Awards Banquet! For further information, please visit our website www.motorcoachexpo.com

Attendee Registration Form Make copies for additional registrants. Motorcoach Expo 2005–

First Name Last Name Badge Name (First or Nickname Only) it's all right here!

Company Name Schedule of Events Sunday – Tuesday, February 20-22, 2005 Mailing Address City State Zip Country IMG Maintenance & Safety Forum Tuesday – February 22, 2005 Phone Fax E-mail 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM State Association Summit NEW 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Welcome Reception Wednesday – February 23, 2005 *Include Las Vegas Hilton confirmation number and receive $25 off each registration! See below for details. 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM Maintenance Interchange 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Motorcoach Industry Panel Industry Role (Building a Strong Foundation) Please check only one: 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM Legislative and Regulatory Update ____ Operator ~ Motorcoach owner, operator, or staff person who is an active part of a motorcoach company recognized by 11:00 AM - 4:15 PM Education Sessions the USDOT. (Concurrent Sessions) NEW ____ Travel Partner ~ Companies that are involved in the travel and tourism market- hotels, destinations, rest stops, etc. 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM ____ Non-Exhibiting Supplier ~ Companies that sell/supply to the motorcoach industry but are NOT exhibiting on the show Marketing and Sales: Finance: Operations: floor at Motorcoach Expo 2005. Selling 101- Raising your Instilling a Safety The Sales Process Rates Culture Registration Fees 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM Marketing and Sales: Finance: Operations: UMA Members Price (M) / Non UMA Members Price (NM) *Save $25 on each Expo 2005 How to get the phone Profit Power Process of securing Advance Regular On-Site Registration! ringing using cost contract work until 10/31/04 until 1/31/05 after 1/31/05 By booking a room at the Las Vegas Hilton effective marketing and providing UMA with the confirmation channels M / NM M / NM M / NM number, you’ll receive $25 off each Expo Operator $250 / $300 $295 / $350 $325 / $375 registration! Las Vegas Hilton - 3:15 PM - 4:15 PM 1.888.732.7117 Marketing and Sales: Operations: Travel Partner $275 / $325 $325 / $375 $350 / $400 Making your website Recruiting and Non-Exhibiting Supplier $500 / $600 $600 / $700 $650 / $750 **Package Deals for UMA an integral part of training new Membership and 2005 Expo! your marketing and drivers Spouse $175 / $225 $225 / $250 $250 / $300 Includes UMA membership for one year sales effort PLUS two full registrations for 2005 NEW Child $75 / $125 $100 / $150 $125 / $150 Motorcoach Expo! *Only available for those 12:00 PM - 1:45 PM Operator Luncheon who have NOT had an active UMA Marketing Lessons from Other Industries **Package Deal: $675 $775 $825 membership within the last 12 months. 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM Exhibit Hall Open - “Sneak Preview” CANCELLATION POLICY: There is a $50 processing fee for all cancellations. This fee is assessed on a per person basis. There is Thursday – February 24, 2005 no refund for cancellations made after 12/31/04. All refund requests are up to the discretion of Expo Management. 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM Networking Opportunity 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM Education Sessions Payment Information (Concurrent Sessions) NEW K K K K Marketing and Sales: Finance: Operations: Check Credit Cards: Visa MasterCard American Express What operators want Margin versus Airport access issues in vendor relationships markup and fees Card Number: ______Expiration Date: ______misconceptions 10:30 AM - 5:30 PM Exhibit Hall Open Cardholder’s Name: ______Signature:______6:00 PM - 11:00 PM Vision Awards Banquet Friday – February 25, 2005 Make Checks Payable to: Mail all others to: Motorcoach Expo, 113 South West 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Exhibit Hall Open UMA Motorcoach Expo Street, 4th Floor, Alexandria, VA 22314-2824 Saturday – February 26, 2005 NEW Fax Credit Card Payments to: Comments? Questions? 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM Ray Dupuis Memorial Golf 703-838-2950 Call 800-424-8262 or e-mail us at [email protected] Tournament at Silverstone Golf Club Presence. That’s what we’re all about. Backed by the biggest network in the industry along with a dedicated and experienced team, we’re behind you all the way. Wherever you are, Prevost Parts Here. There. Everywhere. is always there. With 7 Prevost-owned Parts & Service facilities and over 150 independent Prevost-qualified repair facilities, we’re never far away.

CANADA QUEBEC • 1-800-463-8876 UNITED STATES ILLINOIS • 1-800-799-9938 NEW JERSEY • 1-800-223-0830 FLORIDA • 1-800-874-7740 TENNESSEE • 1-877-299-8881 TEXAS • 1-866-773-8678 CALIFORNIA • 1-800-421-9958 All numbers toll free

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