August 1, 2004

THE NEWS RESOURCE FOR THE BUS AND MOTORCOACH INDUSTRY Court ruling shoots down hours rule for truckers the new hours-of-service rules for were arbitrary and capricious and handed down the ruling, appealing decide not to appeal the decision Uncertainty for truckers. should be revised, the decision is not to the U.S. Supreme Court, and and initiate a new hours-of-service coach industry? The United States Court of immediately effective. The rules will requesting a stay from the Supreme rulemaking. Appeals for the District of remain in effect until the FMCSA Court as part of an appeal. The $64 question, however, is WASHINGTON – The Fed- Columbia issued an order last chooses what legal or administrative If any of the legal maneuvers what rules will be in effect during eral Motor Carrier Safety month vacating the rules the route it intends to pursue. fail, the FMCSA must start a new the time needed to complete a new Administration is weighing its FMCSA put into place just eight The agency has a number of rulemaking process. It has 45 days rulemaking – the old or the new? options in the wake of a stunning months ago. options, including seeking a rehear- to respond to the court ruling. The consensus among regulatory appeals court decision that trashed While the court said the rules ing from the appeals court that Or, the agency could simply CONTINUED ON PAGE 12 þ Operators in border states see business potential in Mexico SAN DIEGO — The Supreme into Mexico. Court ruling that will eventually He said if the U.S. opens its open U.S. highways to Mexican borders to trucks, then Mexico commercial buses and trucks prob- might respond by backing off some ably will have little impact on the of what he claims are retaliatory U.S motorcoach industry unless restrictions it has on U.S. coaches Mexico responds to the decision by entering Mexico. relaxing some of its own border “Right now our industry is just crossing restrictions. a political football,” he said, adding If it does, then some carriers in that he believes the Mexican gov- the United States – particularly ernment is striking back against Coaches from Sundance Stage Lines in San Diego line up at the cruise ship terminal in Ensenada, Mexico. those in the border states of Texas, U.S. coaches in retribution for the ago, but the Clinton Admin- another restriction that would ban NAFTA even though the environ- Arizona and California – could U.S. not complying with the istration, under pressure from labor U.S. coaches older than 1995 from mental effects have not been possibly pick up new business. decade-old North American Free unions and environmentalists, and the country. extensively studied. The decision “We’re hoping that’s just what Trade Agreement by allowing then federal courts, blocked imple- The possibility of the situation overturned a Ninth Circuit Court happens,” said Barry Fennell, sales Mexican trucks and buses full mentation of the agreement. improving stems from the U.S. of Appeals ruling, made in January manager for San Diego-based access to U.S. highways. Meanwhile, says Fennell, Mex- Supreme Court ruling in June that 2003, that effectively stopped the Sundance Stage Lines Inc., one of Mexican commercial vehicles ico tightened its regulations for said the federal government may government from complying with the few California companies with were to have gained full access U.S. buses and has even been talk- open its highways to Mexican the access provisions of the trade

credentials to transport passengers under NAFTA almost five years ing about the possibly of adding commercial vehicles under CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 þ New coalition champions coach industry initiatives WASHINGTON – A poten- six-year highway and mass trans- “This is significant in that it’s the UMA and the American Bus Council tially powerful new organization portation bill became more heated first time we have all come together Association are members of the • California Bus Association has been formed to push private- and focused in recent weeks. to actually take the offensive against coalition that includes seven other • National School Transporta- sector passenger transportation ini- The organization will be an the transit groups, rather than con- national, regional and state associa- tion Association tiatives on Capitol Hill – the important ally in the motorcoach tinuing to play defense like we have tions. The other charter members • Taxicab, Limousine and Para- Coalition of Private Transportation and over-the-road bus industry trying to protect out charter busi- are the: transit Association Associations. fight to keep public transit agencies ness,” said Victor Parra, president • Alabama Motorcoach Asso- • Taxicab Paratransit Associa- The ad hoc group quietly coa- from expanding into the charter and CEO of the United Motorcoach ciation tion of Calif. lesced as the battle over the new service business. Association. • American Transit Services CONTINUED ON PAGE 12 þ $ISCOVER WHY WERE THE 0ARTS 0ROS Á n “ˆˆœ˜ «>ÀÌÃ] ëii`Þ `iˆÛiÀÞ°

*>ÀÌà vœÀ *ÀiۜÃ̸ Vœ>V ið &" %- ,.))(+- "À`iÀ œ˜ˆ˜i >Ì Ì i *>ÀÌà -̜Ài° 53    #ANADA    WWWMCICOACHCOM 1997 T945 VIN 28580 Seats 11, Jacuzzi Tub w/shower, Full Size Refrigerator, 2 Burner Cook Top 1999 T945 VIN 29759 Shower, 2 Refrigerators, Restroom, Alum. Wheels, B500R Trans.

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1996 T845 2000 T945 VIN 28492 VIN 29731 Seats 22, Corian Counter Tops, 12 Bunks, w-shower, In-Motion Satellite, Full Size Microwave, Corian Refrigerator Counter Tops, B500 Trans. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — August 1, 2004 — 3 OPERATOR NEWS Back to the drawing board Takeover of N.Y. bus services is delayed NEW YORK CITY — The city one and all of the old concessions through when the state legislature of New York and the Metropolitan no longer apply,” said MTA passed conflicting bills that would Transportation Authority have spokesman Tom Kelly. have allowed the takeover and then gone back to the drawing board in The city, which has contracted was unable to agree on a compro- an effort to develop a strategy for with private companies to operate mise, effectively killing the issue. taking over the service that seven the city-subsidized routes between Still wanting to see the MTA private bus companies have been Manhattan and the Bronx, Queens operate the routes and not wanting providing daily to more than and Brooklyn since 1974, had to interrupt service by letting the 400,000 New Yorkers. announced it would turnover the private companies go, Bloomberg Stymied by the failure of state service to the MTA on July 1. extended the contracts with the lawmakers to agree on a takeover The proposal was the idea of private operators until Dec. 4, and plan, city and transit officials now New York Mayor Michael R. proposed the public benefit corpo- are looking to create a separate Bloomberg who has maintained ration solution, which requires only entity within the MTA – a public the MTA could provide better and the approval of the MTA board, a Greyhound cuts felt benefit corporation – that would more efficient service than the pri- willing partner in both the initial operate the service. vate operators. and new arrangements. “We’ve had to go back to stage However, Bloomberg’s plan fell by many in region CONTINUED ON PAGE 13 þ DALLAS – Reverberations nates nine stops on U.S. Highway from the looming restructuring of 101 along the west coast of Greyhound Line’s sprawling north Oregon. central and western region, which Two small bus services are look- becomes effective in two weeks, ing at the soon-to-be abandoned continue across the U.S. 672-stretch between Omaha, Neb., • Residents of rural areas in 17 and Denver. Communities like states are scrambling to locate Sterling, Colo., are worried both alternative transportation, some- about the daily impact of no times finding it thanks to smaller Greyhound service and the long- intercity carriers willing to take term consequences — on growth over soon-to-be abandoned Grey- and development – of a town with- hound routes. Many more commu- out daily bus service. nities apparently are coming up No operator has been found to empty, however. take over the route between Wi- • Greyhound employees, espe- nona, Minn., and La Crosse, Wis. cially drivers, are bracing for a However, Jefferson Lines of much shrunken system. Minneapolis has been signed up • Greyhound is being accused to take over service along two of being the “old” Greyhound, the greater Minnesota routes being bull elephant of the bus industry. eliminated by Greyhound. Jeff- • And the company is busy erson is getting a $153,000 federal wrapping up the details of pulling grant through the Minnesota out of 260 communities, eliminat- Department of Transportation to ing 150 jobs, relocating drivers and operate and market the routes closing their hubs, and reducing through the end of this year. the fleet by 100 buses — even as it “Without this support, these begins moving toward the next routes would not be economically round of cuts. viable,” said Bonnie Buchanan, Greyhound announced at the Jefferson Line’s vice president for end of June it was discontinuing marketing. service to dozens of small towns The service includes a 289-mile between Chicago and Seattle in an route between Minneapolis and effort to cut costs and focus on its Sioux Falls, S.D., which serves most profitable routes. about 200 riders each week in com- From Oregon, to Colorado, to munities such as Litchfield, North Dakota, to Wisconsin, com- Willmar, Granite Falls, Marshall, munities by the score are preparing Pipestone and Luverne. for life after Greyhound, with local The second route is a 383-mile officials, civic organizations and run between Minneapolis and residents scouring the countryside Grand Forks, N.D., which serves for bus companies, shuttle services more than 300 riders weekly in and van operators to fill the void communities like Little Falls, Pine that will be created by Greyhound River, Cass Lake, Brainerd, Bemidji on Aug. 18 and Crookston. Porter Stage Lines of North In Montana, Tom Forseth, Bend, Ore., is likely to fill some of owner of Rimrock Trailways of the gaps when Greyhound elimi- CONTINUED ON PAGE 11 þ

POSTMASTER: Return postage guaranteed for return of undeliverable copies of Bus&MotorcoachNEWS. Return to 717 W. Pierson, #160, Phoenix, AZ 85013 4 – August 1, 2004 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS The

UMA lawsuit seeks court review of new driver rule ALEXANDRIA, Va. – The The suit asks the court to review should its petition for reconsider- The new rule requires training able time frame for implementa- United Motorcoach Association the rule to determine whether it is ation fail. in four areas for new drivers: driver tion. The rule went into effect has filed suit to review a new fed- arbitrary and capricious. UMA contends that motor- qualifications, driver wellness, July 20. eral rule that requires expanded Earlier, UMA had filed a peti- coach and school bus industry hours-of-service, and whistle- UMA wants the FMCSA to training for beginner over-the-road tion for reconsideration with the compliance with the entry-level blower protection. work with the motorcoach indus- bus and truck drivers. FMCSA, requesting the agency training requirements of the new UMA maintains the rule has try to develop a more compre- The suit was filed in U.S. to correct “fatal flaws” in the rule. rule are neither practical, sensible, no standards for the required hensive training program for District Court and named the The agency has yet to rule on the nor in the public interest. Plus, it training, ignores the fact there entry-level drivers that will have Federal Motor Carrier Safety Ad- petition. UMA said it reluctantly will work an unreasonable hard- aren’t enough qualified trainers meaningful outcomes. It would ministration, which announced initiated the legal action to avoid ship on small motorcoach opera- to provide the training required prefer to see such a program made the new rule in May, as defendant. abandoning future legal recourse tors, says UMA. by the rule, and has an unreason- part of the CDL program. Maryland registration fees Five transits Virginia tax changes jump under highway plan seek private may have big impact ANNAPOLIS, Md. – The The EMS fees also apply to the RICHMOND, Va. – Massive returns with the Virginia Depart- annual cost of renewing motor medium and small buses. charter firms changes to Virginia tax laws that go ment of Taxation, identifying, vehicle registration plates in Mary- School buses, which previously The following public transit into effect next month will impact among other things, their nonresi- land shot up more than 40 percent paid fees of either $27 or $81, now providers have informed the not only Virginia-based motorcoach dent owners. The return must be last month for motorcoaches and have an annual registration fee of United Motorcoach Association operators but also out-of-state com- filed on or before the 15th day of more than doubled for school buses. between $64.50 and $163.50, plus of their intent to provide charter panies that do business in the state. the fourth month following the The increases will help pay for the EMS surcharge. bus service unless willing and Under the legislation, the rate close of its taxable year. a $237 million plan by Maryland Carol Joyce of Jubb’s Bus able private operators step for- of the general sales and use tax in These entities may apply to the Gov. Robert Ehrlich to improve Service in Glen Burnie, Md., and ward to offer their services, or to Virginia will rise to 5 percent from department to file combined re- the state highway system. an officer of the Maryland Motor- bid on contract opportunities. 4.5, and the exemption for the pur- turns for such owners. Fees for trucks and trailers also coach Association, said the associ- UMA urges appropriate chases of common carriers will be The information returns could skyrocketed, while the cost to regis- ation and its lobbyist fought the operators to take the time to eliminated. expose the out-of-state owners to ter most passenger vehicles of 3,700 changes, including sending a dele- respond to these notices: This change does not affect the the risk of an audit in Virginia. pounds or less increased to $128 gation to Annapolis to speak Bridgeport, Conn. Deadline: rolling stock exemption for the A pass-through entity that fails purchase of heavy vehicles, which to file a return will be subject to a from $81. Owners of so-called against the increases. Aug. 6, 2004. Write to: Director continues unchanged. The amend- penalty of $200 if the return is no multipurpose vehicles weighing Among other things, the oper- of Planning and Service ment affects purchases of parts. more than one month late, with an more than 3,700 pounds, which ators pointed out that registration Development, Greater Bridge- Purchases or leases entered additional penalty of $200 for each typically are SUVs, will now pay fees in Maryland are now the high- port Transit Authority, One into before March 2, however, are additional month. $180 annually, up from $108. est in the region, which does noth- Cross St., Bridgeport, CT 06610- subject to the exemption as long as A pass-through entity return The new registration fee for ing to help the competitiveness of 3263. Phone: (203) 798-8687. the property is put into service by that is more than six months late buses with seating for 36 or more is companies based in the state. Danbury, Conn. Deadline: Sept. 2. would be subject to a penalty of 6 $888.50, up from $625, plus a Maryland also boosted fines Aug. 6, 2004. Write to: Richard Among dozens of other items percent of the tax due, and fraudu- $13.50 fee to pay for Maryland’s and fees for drunk-driving convic- Schreiner, Director of Service in the omnibus tax law is a “pass- lent returns would be subject to a emergency medical services system. tions and other moving violations. Development, Housatonic Area through filing requirement” for tax- penalty of up to $1,000. Buses with a seating capacity of Operators using Interstates 70, 83, Regional Transit District able years beginning Jan. 1, 2004. The tax legislation, which will 21 to 35 now pay a registration fee 95, 97 and 695 in Maryland should (HART), 62 Federal Rd., The requirement could potentially raise $1.3 billion during the next of $538.50, compared to $350 pre- beware. Danbury, CT 06810. Phone: create nexus issues for out-of-state two years, was adopted by the viously. Small buses, those seating The registration fee increases (203) 744-4070. owners of pass-through entities Virginia General Assembly during 20 or less, have a new fee of were the first in Maryland since Painesville, Ohio. Deadline: doing business in Virginia. its extended 2004 session. Debate $288.50, versus an old fee of $175. 1987. Aug. 8, 2004. Write to: Ray Pass-through entities, includ- and action on the legislation was so Jurkowski, General Manager, ing Subchapter S (closely-held) divisive that it split the state Lake County’s Regional Transit corporations and limited-liability Republican party and caused a rift Kansas Turnpike tolls climb Authority (LAKETRAN), 555 companies and partnerships, will with many of the state’s largest TOPEKA, Kan. — Tolls on improve interchanges in that area. Lakeshore Blvd., Painesville, be required to file information businesses. the Kansas Turnpike increase an Turnpike spokeswoman Lisa OH 44077. Phone: (440) 350- average of 5 percent Aug. 1. Callahan said traffic on some 1000. A trip along the entire length stretches of the highway had Tennessee rule limits licenses Madison, Wis. Deadline: of the turnpike will now cost a increased 25 percent during the NASHVILLE, Tenn. — obtaining Tennessee commercial Aug. 9, 2004. Write to: Manager, three-axle motorcoach $11.75, up past six years, and additional Tennessee has implemented new driver licenses. Previously, non-citi- Madison Metro Transit, 1101 E. from $11. A two-axle coach will capacity was needed. requirements that limit driver zens and non-residents could obtain Washington Ave., Madison, WI pay $8.75, up from $8.25. The 236-mile turnpike stretch- licenses for both commercial and commercial driver licenses provid- Turnpike officials said the addi- es from Kansas City, Kan., to the 53703. Phone: (608) 267-4904. passenger vehicles to U.S. citizens ed they met the state’s standards. tional revenue would be used to Oklahoma border. It comprises Norwalk, Conn. Deadline: or permanent residents. Also, Tennessee will not renew add a lane in each direction Interstate 70 from Kansas City to Aug. 19, 2004. Write to: Louis State officials say its new existing CDL licenses held by non- between Topeka and Lecompton, Topeka; Interstate 335 from Schulman, Administrator, Nor- requirements are the strictest citizens when they expire, and will Kan. The agency also said it plans Topeka to Emporia, and Interstate walk Transit District, 275 Wil- license policies in the nation. not issue new ones to applicants to replace several bridges over the 35 from Emporia to the Oklahoma son Ave., Norwalk, CT 06054. The law specifically bars non- who are not citizens or permanent Kansas River near Lawrence and border. Phone: (203) 852-0000. citizens and non-residents from residents. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — August 1, 2004 — 5 THE DOCKET California air board restricts bus, truck idling LOS ANGELES — The nical review by the state’s Office of Other exceptions are allowed “Diesel operators often let their said in a statement. California Air Resources Board Administrative Law. for adverse weather conditions, engines idle for long periods of The responsibility for enforce- approved a new rule late last An exception to the rule mechanical difficulties, queuing in time because of fears their vehicles ment would fall to about 10 teams month that limits how long and would allow buses to idle continu- the normal course of conducting might not start well when cold or of resource inspectors. The Cali- where diesel-powered buses and ously to keep heating or air condi- business, and when directed by a in bad weather. However, newer fornia Highway Patrol and other trucks can idle. tioning running when passengers law officer to keep an engine engine and fuel technologies have agencies could issue $100 citations Essentially, the board voted to are on board. running. eliminated that problem,” CARB for violations. ban buses from idling more 10 minutes when boarding passen- gers. Trucks can idle 5 minutes at any one location. CARB said the regulation applies to more than 400,000 trucks and buses registered in California, and all out-of-state buses and trucks operating in the state. The rule will take effect in about six months pending a tech- N.J. to step up enforcement of anti-idling law TRENTON, N.J. — Environ- mental officials in New Jersey have put the bus and truck industries on notice that the state intends to step up enforcement of its anti- idling law. Peg Hanna, diesel risk reduc- tion manager for the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, said 75 enforcement officers would target areas where diesel-powered vehicles congre- gate. Among specific areas to be tar- geted are public entertainment venues, bus staging areas and retail centers. Texas to offer internet access at reststops AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas Department of Transportation is ex- panding its program of providing wireless internet access at state rest areas and travel information centers. Companies willing to provide free wireless internet were being solicited by TxDOT. Texas became the first state to provide free internet access at rest areas when it launched a pilot pro- gram by installing Wi-Fi hotspots at four rest areas along U.S. Highway 287. TxDOT also has plans to install special kiosks where motorists can swipe a credit card and use internet-enabled comput- ers in 15-minute increments. 6 – August 1, 2004 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS THE DOCKET New rule for riders requesting accessible service WASHINGTON – The U.S. Form can be mailed to the passen- e-mail. Department of Transportation has ger by the next business day after Motorcoach providers that Service Request Form issued a new rule designed to make the request is made. have not adopted a Service Request Form for advance notice requests and provision of equivalent it easier and faster for coach opera- • If the person making the Form as part of their operation are accessible bus service. tors to confirm a request for acces- request has e-mail access, the oper- out of compliance with the DOT 1. Operator’s Name______sible bus service. ator can provide a confirmation rules governing accessible bus serv- Under the accessible-service number, verifying the Service ice. 2. Address ______rule the USDOT issued in February Request Forum has been filled out The form has 11 elements and 3. Phone Number ______2001, operators are required to electronically and the passenger operaters can create their own. A complete a Service Request Form will receive a paper copy when he sample accompanies this story. 4. Passenger’s Name ______whenever a passenger with a dis- or she arrives for the service. For more information about the 5. Address ______ability asks for an accessible bus or • If the passenger has access to new rule, contact: Linda C. Lasley, equivalent service. a facsimile machine, operators can Office of the Assistant General 6. Phone Number ______The operator is to fill out the fax a copy of the Service Request Counsel for Regulation and 7. Scheduled date(s) and time(s) of trip(s) ______first nine lines of the form and send Form within 24 hours after receiv- Enforcement, DOT, 400 7th St., it to the customer no later than the ing the request. SW, Room 10424, Washington, 8. Date and time of request ______next business day following the If service is denied when the DC 20590. Phone: (202) 366- 9. Location(s) of need for accessible bus or equivalent services, as service request. passenger arrives, then a completed 4723. applicable ______On the scheduled date of the form indicating the denial of serv- The rule was published in the trip, the operator providing the ice must be given to the passenger Federal Register on July 7, pages 10. Was accessible bus or equivalent service, as applicable, service completes lines 10 and 11 of at that time. 40794-40796. provided for trip(s)? Yes Ë No Ë the form. If service is denied before the To obtain a copy of the com- 11. Was there a basis recognized by U.S. Department of Transportation Under the new rule, operators passenger shows up for the request- plete DOT rule for accessible serv- regulations for not providing an accessible bus or equivalent may respond to a request for acces- ed service, then a completed form ice by over-the-road buses, call the service, as applicable, for the trip(s)? Yes No sible service in one of three ways: indicating the denial of service is to DOT Office of Regulation and Ë Ë If yes, explain______• A copy of the Service Request be transmitted by mail, fax or Enforcement at (202) 366-4723. The Travel Institute UTU bosses get prison time HOUSTON, Texas – Two for- to the United States $45,000 in All four men were indicted by a launches curriculum mer presidents of the United proceeds generated by his involve- Houston federal grand jury last year Transportation Union have been ment in the racketeering enter- for conspiring to violate federal mail in ‘accessible travel’ given prison terms and ordered to prise. and wire fraud statutes, interstate WELLESLEY, Mass. – The repeat customer base. pay $200,000 in proceeds gained John Rookard, 58, Olalla, transportation in aid of racketeering Travel Institute has introduced a “Accessible travel is a niche from racketeering activities. Wash., a former UTU Insurance through commercial state bribery by new travel specialist course that market that cuts across all niche U.S. District Court Judge Sim Association field representative using their positions to solicit and offers certification in “accessible markets. If you learn to serve the Lake sentenced Byron Boyd, 57, of and project coordinator for Byron collect cash payments and other travel.” accessible travel market, it can Seattle, and Charles A. Little, 66, Boyd, also was sentenced to a things of value from attorneys doing The course is the first in a new help in every other area of travel of Leander, Texas, to two-year three-year term of probation with business or seeking to do business line of specialist courses offered by sales. Accessible travelers’ needs prison terms, without parole, and two special conditions – home with the union, and embezzlement The Travel Institute that reflect cross all types of travel and all des- trends in consumer travel plan- tinations,” said Schwartz. ordered them to pay $100,000 confinement and electronic moni- from a labor organization between ning, including adventure travel, The Travel Institute offers two each. They also were fined $10,000 toring during the first six months of June 1994 and July 2003. diving, golf, honeymoons and des- levels of lifestyle specialist desig- each. the probationary period. Rookard All of the charges resulted from tination weddings, luxury travel nations for each segment. By Judge Lake further ordered that an investigation into the UTU and spas. preparing for and passing a stan- each man is to be supervised for a “The sentences Designated Legal Counsel pro- A survey conducted two years dardized test, travel professionals period of three years following his gram. A designation as counsel for ago by Harris Interactive revealed will earn a “specialist” designation release from prison. reflected the court’s the UTU was a highly coveted that nearly 20 percent of the U.S. for that niche. Those specialists “The thousands of hard-work- consideration of position for attorneys who prac- population has some type of dis- then have an opportunity to ing UTU members deserve the jus- ticed Federal Employment Liability ability, and that millions of these become a “certified specialist” by tice served today,” said U.S. their cooperation Act personal injury law. It allowed individuals would travel one or demonstrating advanced knowl- Attorney Michael Shelby. “These attorneys’ access to the union two more times per year if their edge through relevant business with federal law needs were better met. experience in that segment. This sentences end a sad chapter in members and to receive the lucra- The Travel Institute’s new two-level structure applies to each UTU’s history and represent a new enforcement and tive business associated with repre- accessible travel course, written of nine courses being launched beginning for the current UTU regulatory officials.” senting injured rail workers in law- in collaboration with Roberta this year by the Travel Institute. leadership to reform a corrupt des- suits against rail employers. Schwartz, director of education for Experiential criteria for certi- ignated legal counsel program.” was also ordered to forfeit to the The quartet would solicit and the Society for Accessible Travel fication include: attaining at least The UTU is an international United States $45,000 in racket- collect cash payments and other and Hospitality (www.sath.org), one year of relevant travel indus- labor organization based in Cleve- eering proceeds. things of value from attorneys covers the size and scope of the mar- try experience, completing a land, with more than 120,000 Upon conviction, Boyd, Little, doing business or seeking to do ket, the proper etiquette for serving required number of related busi- members consisting of bus, rail- Dennis, and Rookard were disqual- business with the union and direct- travelers with disabilities, and what ness activities from a checklist, road, airline and mass transit ified from employment with labor ing other union officials to do the to look for in assessing various and maintaining the certification employees and retirees. organizations or employee benefit same. modes of transportation, lodging, every five years. destinations and attractions. For more information on Two other lower-level UTU plans, or from service as a labor All four were convicted as a The course also provides mar- the accessible travel and other officials also were sentenced. Ralph relations consultant for a period of result of pleading guilty to the keting techniques and travel pref- specialist programs go to Dennis, 52, Boone, Iowa, former 13 years after the completion of racketeering conspiracy. The sen- erences designed to help travel www.thetravelinstitute.com. director of insurance for the UTU their prison terms. tences reflected the court’s consid- agents, tour operators, suppliers or The Travel Institute serves Insurance Association, was sen- Boyd resigned as UTU presi- eration of their cooperation with destinations meet the needs of travel professionals with educa- tenced to three years probation, dent following his conviction in federal law enforcement and regu- this market to establish a loyal, tion programs. fined $2,000, and ordered to forfeit March. latory officials. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — August 1, 2004 — 7 INDUSTRY NEWS MCI is with you all the way.

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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 – August 1, 2004 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS OPINION Doing more Fundamentals There are small but disconcert- enough. Higher out-of-service rates ing signs that the safety perform- auger for going beyond the man- Worker compensation recoveries ance of the motorcoach industry is dates of the law to help assure a safe not all it could be. future for your passengers, as well as as a result of the injury. The period. Following recovery, the The most obvious came during your company. amount of disability benefit is person returns to work. Roadcheck 2004, the Commercial Here are five ways operators determined by state statutory for- Permanent partial disability Vehicle Safety Alliance’s massive can go beyond the rules: mulas that are based on either a means the injury is permanent but annual roadside inspection exercise, Set your own standards. By con- medical loss or wage loss theory. the employee can still be gainfully where an army of inspectors checks ducting a diligent background That is why you can have differ- employed. more than 50,000 commercial vehi- check for every driver, you have the ent recoveries for the same type of Permanent total disability cles during a 72-hour stretch. right to refuse employment when injury in different states. occurs when the injury is perma- Nearly 600 over-the-road buses the results don’t match your crite- Death benefits are also based nent and the employee cannot be were inspected this year and the out- ria. Suspicious gaps in employment on statutory formulas and/or paid gainfully employed for an indefi- of-service rate approached 10 per- may mean someone was drying out, By Thomas D. DeMatteo to the beneficiaries. nite time. The amount of disabili- cent, meaning that nearly one out of coming down, or getting off. Vice President & Disabilities are classified into ty benefits is designed to compen- 10 of the coaches checked shouldn’t Get more involved. Drivers General Counsel four categories: temporary partial, sate the employee for lost wages have been on the highway. deserve to have a private life, but ABC Companies temporary total, permanent par- and/or the reduction in earnings At the same time, the number their choice of a career is fulltime. tial and permanent total. Each capacity. of drivers put out of service climbed That means you have a right to There are three basic cate- category contains the severity of You should feel free to active- by nearly one-third from last year. know where and when they work gories of recovery that are com- injury plus a duration of time. ly manage the claim with your Clearly, this is not good news. at a second job, and it means you mon to all worker’s compensation Temporary partial disability insurance carrier by staying in Out-of-service rate increases have a right to be concerned about statutes: medical and related means an injured employee cannot close contact with your claims can cause the industry big problems their lifestyle – diet, wellness, phys- expenses; disability benefits, and perform the job he/she had when adjuster to return the employee with the U.S. Department of ical fitness. Don’t be bashful about death benefits. injured but can engage in gainful back to work as soon as possible. Transportation, the Federal Motor offering help. Medical expenses, such as employment. When healed, this Carrier Safety Administration and Empower your safety director. doctors, nurses, hospital, rehabili- person returns to his/her old job. Thomas D. DeMatteo is also an state road safety officials when the An experienced, skeptical and tation and drugs, are recoverable. Temporary total disability adjunct professor at Hamline industry argues about its “exemp- hard-nosed safety director can be Disability benefits provide for means the employee cannot work University School of Law in St. lary” safety record. Industry credi- one of your best protections against loss of earnings or earning power at all – but only for a temporary Paul, Minn. bility simply goes flying out the tail deception, deceit and shoddy med- pipe. ical exams. Footnote: Hood, Jack B., Hardy, Benjamin A., Lewis, Harold S., Worker’s Compensation and Employee Protection There is a widespread sense Retain your own reviewing physi- Laws, West Publishing, 1990. among responsible coach operators cian. Find your own medical review that there are a growing number of officer to examine all driver long Air carriers try guerilla marketing tactics, unsafe and illegal operators on the forms, looking for inconsistencies road that are giving the industry a and red flags. can Greyhound Bus drivers be far behind? black eye. There is no easy way to Review the long form. You have a WASHINGTON – The Wash- gave away free round-trip tickets to low-fare carriers now expanding prove or disprove this notion but, right to require the submission of ington Post reports that US Airways anyone engaged in what they service at all three Washington air- as Brian Crow of the Ontario the driver’s medical examination employees hit the streets in Wash- described as a random act of kind- ports, the traditional airlines are hus- Motorcoach Association recently long form. Familiarize yourself with ington, handing out Krispy Kreme ness. They looked for people who tling to keep up: They’re slashing noted, visible, effective enforce- all the disqualifying medical condi- doughnuts and pumping free gas in held a door for someone or who fares, changing the way they get ment by DOT, FMCSA and states tions (found in the FMCSR Part McLean, Va., to draw attention to returned a dropped $20 bill. The air- their message across, pushing and provinces could do much to 391, Subpart E.) Make sure the the carrier’s lowered fares. line gave away 1,000 tickets. Internet ticket sales, and attempting level the playing field, assuring examining doctor understood all of Delta Air Lines flight attendants The older airlines are adopting to hold down costs. everyone is abiding by the rules. the rules. were on the streets of Boston and the so-called guerrilla marketing tac- The offbeat promotions are an But as this publication and its Going beyond the mandates of New York to spread the word about tics that have helped vault low-cost attempt to show travelers that the predecessor have noted before, liv- the law should be part of the daily Song, the carrier’s fledgling low-cost operators, such as Southwest and traditional carriers are, well, tradi- ing up to the rules simply isn’t routine. operation. The Delta employees JetBlue airlines, to success. With tional no more.

How to contact us: ISSUE NO. 35 To submit or report news, To contact the United Motorcoach Jeff Polzien Red Carpet Tours Letters to the Editor, articles: Association: Oklahoma City E-mail: [email protected] Call: (800) 424-8262 A PUBLICATION OF THE UNITED MOTORCOACH ASSOCIATION Robert L. Quick Fax: (877) 510-5598 or go to: www.uma.org Staff Advisory Board Quick-Livick Inc. or (877) 510-5602 Stauton, Va. To e-mail advertisements Mail: 717 West Pierson #160 or photographs: Editor & Publisher Alex Allen Todd Holland Tom Ready Phoenix, AZ 85013 Victor Parra Amador Stage Lines Ramblin' Express Ready Bus Lines E-mail: [email protected] Sacramento, Calif. Colorado Springs LaCrescent, Minn. Call: (602) 242-7361 or upload at www.jezac.com/uploads Sales Director Senior Editor Bob Brisman Robert Hume Bill Rohrbaugh West Point Trailways Travel Mates Trailways Bill Rohrbaugh's Charter Services To advertise or to mail To subscribe or inquire Johnny Steger Bruce Sankey Vails Gate, N.Y. Harrisonburg, Va. Manchester, Md. advertising-related materials: about your subscription: Government Editor Art Director David Brown Daryl G. Johnson Brian Scott Call: Johnny Steger Call: (602) 242-7361 Holiday Tours J & J Charters Escot Bus Lines (602) 980-0840 Norman Littler Mary E. McCarty Randlemann, N.C. Crosby, Texas Largo, Fla. To send subscription orders E-mail: [email protected] or changes of address: Editorial Assistant Associate Editor Bob Foley Godfrey LeBron John Silvanie Mail: Post Office Box 12903 ABC Companies Paradise Trailways Suburban Charter Services E-mail: [email protected] Tara Sheehan Ellen Balm Faribault, Minn. West Hempstead, N.Y. White Plains, N.Y. Tempe, AZ 85284 Fax: (877) 510-5602 To complain: Accountant Editorial Assistant Steve Haddad Joan Libby Alan Spachman or (877) 510-5598 Carl R. Bieber Tourways Cavalier Coach National Interstate Insurance Co John Giddens Amy Stalknecht Call: (602) 242-7361 Mail: 717 West Pierson #160 Kutstown, Pa. Boston, Mass. Richfield, Ohio E-mail: [email protected] Phoenix, AZ 85013 Rick Hillard Warren Miller T. Ralph Young Tri-State Tours Pacific Coach Bus Service Young Transportation ©2004 by the United Motorcoach Association. Reproduction in whole or in part Galena, Ill. San Francisco, Calif. Ashville, N.C. without written permission is prohibited. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — August 1, 2004 — 9 INDUSTRY NEWS Kerry hunts for support Profits surge in key states via coach at Cummins, BOSTON – John Kerry offi- rural America behind economical- Caterpillar cially became the Democratic pres- ly. The campaign also says rural ident nominee last week and will communities have more people Two leading diesel engine mak- be heavily campaigning by motor- called up by the Reserve and ers, Caterpillar and Cummins, have coach as he makes a strong push National Guard for duty in Iraq reported sharply higher earnings for for rural voters. than urban areas. the second quarter of this year. In closely contested states that Republicans, of course, refute One operator that has supplied of marketing at Prevost Car, said Caterpillar said its second-quar- are considered crucial to winning the charges from the Kerry camp, the Kerry campaign with one of its politicians like to campaign by ter net income was $554 million, or the election, Kerry will be traveling saying Bush’s tax cuts have helped Prevost coaches is Lamers Bus coach because it can be trans- $1.55 per share, compared with on chartered coaches in rural parts small towns, and the Medicare law Lines in Green Bay, Wis. Lamers, formed into a comfortable and $399 million, or $1.15 a year earli- of Missouri, Ohio, West Virginia, Bush pushed through Congress has which is marking its 60th year in functional space, allowing the can- er. Total revenues for the quarter Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Iowa, increased government reimburse- business, is one of the largest oper- didate to be on the ground, closer were $7.56 billion, up 27 percent Wisconsin and other states. ments to rural hospitals. ators in the upper Midwest. to the electorate and able to move from the second quarter of 2003. The Kerry campaign says Kerry will carry his arguments Coaches used by Kerry are rela- quickly. Moreover, says Picard, Engine sales totaled $2.26 billion, President Bush’s policies have hurt to voters in rural parts of swing beled the Real Deal Express. coaches can be wrapped to give the an increase of 23 percent. farmers and sportsmen and left states via leased coaches. Claude Picard, vice president campaign a moving billboard. Cat also said its sales gain was strongly influenced by a 37 percent increase in sales of on-highway engines in North America. Trailways adds members in key regions Meanwhile, Cummins said its net income for the second quarter was FAIRFAX, Va. – Trailways ington, D.C.; Central States Central States, which was operate a fleet of 21 Prevost coach- $82 million, or $1.76 per share, com- Transportation Systems has added Trailways in St. Louis, and Great founded nine years ago by compa- es with the company’s signature pared with $14 million, or 34 cents a three new members, including its Canadian Trailways of Kitchener, ny President Gary Deeken, oper- slogan, “Traveling at 100 Smiles an year earlier. Sales reached a record first member-operator in eastern Ont. ates a fleet of 20 vehicles and pro- Hour,” on the back of each one. $2.12 billion, a 38 percent increase Canada. First Priority is a charter and vides charter services to a wide Trailways’ President Gale Ells- from the second quarter of 2003. Joining Trailways’ association tour company headed by company variety of groups and organizations. worth said the three companies Cummins said its engine sales of independent coach operators is President Marcia Milton. Charlie Great Canadian Trailways is a help strengthen the Trailways sys- rose 57 percent to $1.4 billion, led First Priority Trailways of District Neal is her partner in the six-year- family-operated business owned by tem in three important areas of by higher sales in North America Heights, Md., a suburb of Wash- old business. Larry and Lorna Hundt. They North America. for heavy-duty highway engines.

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Sales and Technical Toll Free: 877-590-7366 E-MAIL: [email protected] Sales Fax: 817-590-0505 10 – August 1, 2004 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS INDUSTRY NEWS Border opening prevent carriers from taking busi- ness away from one another. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 “What the Mexican govern- agreement. ment makes us go through now is California It was not known how soon it just shy of ridiculous,” observed Arizona New Mexico will be before the U.S. opens its Steve Bernier, president of Arizona highways in response to the court Coach Tours Inc. in Tucson, Ariz., decision, although some govern- which has two buses certified for Baja ment officials have indicated that Mexican travel. “I think it’s a tit- California it could be several months. for-tat thing right now.” Texas Once that happens, Mexican- Like Fennell, he’s also hopeful Sonora domiciled motorcoach companies the Mexican government will could apply for operating authority relax some of its regulations so trips Chihuahua in the U.S. and then would be able across the border become easier. Coahuila to make tour and charter runs from “Maybe they’ll have less hoops for Mexico to just about anywhere in us to jump through,” he said. the country. Because of the cost and the Nuevo NAFTA regulations, however, hassle of getting a permit for travel U.S.-Mexico Leon require that Mexican carriers have in Mexico, few U.S. carriers do a drug and alcohol-testing program much regular business south of the Border Crossings Tamaul’s for their drivers and that their border. Instead, most of them sim- buses pass safety inspections, have ply transport passengers to the bor- valid U.S. insurance and enter the der where they are met by Mexican Obstacles stymie border opening county only at commercial cross- coaches that take them south. ings and only when a safety inspec- Even if Mexico were to relax WASHINGTON – Although the border to be opened, some of standards. tor is on duty. some of its restrictions, security nearly two months have passed the statutory restrictions Congress The bill by Assemblywoman Because of those restrictions, concerns likely would keep many since the Supreme Court cleared imposed in 2002 prevent the gov- Fran Pavley would require Mexi- many border observers do not companies from making regular the way for the federal govern- ernment from simply allowing can trucks and buses to meet the believe Mexican buses pose the runs into the country, suggests ment to allow Mexican buses and Mexican buses and trucks to oper- same federal air pollution stan- safety or environmental threat that Mike Waters, president of the Cal- trucks to operate in the U.S., ate freely in the United States. dards for their model years as their some have predicted. Insurance is ifornia Bus Association and owner industry and government officials “The fact is that plans are not U.S. counterparts in order to come expected to be a key issue for of Pacific Coast Bus Lines in San say significant barriers remain, quite settled on what we’re doing,” through California. Mexican operators. U.S. insurance Francisco. meaning the border will not open said DOT spokesman Brian Tur- Pavely said she would not companies will not insure a “Opening of our borders to anytime soon. mail. “At one point we were close to attempt to require Mexican vehi- Mexican driver unless he or she Mexican buses probably will turn The court ruled June 7 that the opening the border two years ago.” cles to meet California’s tougher has experience driving for a U.S. out to be a one-way deal,” he said. U.S. Department of Transporta- Meanwhile, a California law- state air pollution standards. How- operator. “The Mexican operators probably tion did not have to complete an maker has introduced legislation ever, legal experts say that a state Currently, most Mexican buses would have unfettered access to environmental impact review that would bar Mexican trucks law requiring Mexican trucks and are allowed to drop off and pick up the U.S. and the U.S. operators by before allowing Mexican trucks and buses from traveling through- buses to meet federal pollution passengers only within special in large would continue to be and buses into the United States. out the Golden State unless they standards would likely face legal commercial zones that vary from reluctant to go into Mexico Even though the ruling allows have met federal air pollution challenge. 20 miles to 100 miles, depending because of safety and security rea- on the population of the area near sons.” “The ships sometimes need 70 Even Greyhound Lines says it Estrella Blanca that allows passen- the border crossing, according to Fennell, however, thinks some or 80 buses at one time to accom- might consider opportunities in gers in Mexico to take a bus to the federal Department of Transporta- carriers will jump at the new modate their passengers and they Mexico if the opportunity arises. U.S. border and transfer to a Grey- tion spokesman David Longo. opportunities that a more open usually can’t find enough of them,” Spokeswoman Kim Plaskett hound coach. Tickets for travel on He said coaches operated by Mexican border would offer. “A lot he said. “I think some U.S. carriers said the company supports Greyhound buses in the U.S. also U.S.-owned Mexican carriers – of them would like to get some of would like to get some of that NAFTA as long as the rules regard- are available in Mexico through and there are a handful of those – that business,” he said. business.” ing motorcoaches are applied travel agencies associated with the and nine Mexican companies that Perhaps the biggest opportuni- Additionally, he said U.S. car- equally in both countries. “This Dallas-based carrier. were grandfathered, currently have ty, he said, would be serving cruise riers also could begin new line would open the possibility of our Bernier, meanwhile, said he full access to U.S. highways, ships that, because of federal sail- runs into Mexico and possibly going into Mexico,” she said. “It sees few problems with Mexican although their buses are subject to ing regulations, are required some- take tour and charter groups from certainly would be an option for us, buses traveling beyond the com- various inspections and insurance times to discharge or take on pas- the U.S. to seaside resorts along although we have not made any mercial zone in the U.S., despite requirements and require U.S. sengers in Ensenada, Mexico, the Mexican coast and tourist decisions.” safety and pollution concerns licenses. rather than in San Diego or Los attractions in other parts of the Greyhound has a partnership raised by NAFTA opponents, U.S. coaches currently have Angeles. country. with Mexican-owned Groupo some of whom contend that the more freedom in Mexico, being al- bus fleets operated by many Mexi- lowed to cross the border and trav- can companies are old and unsafe. el throughout the country with “Some of the larger companies special permits. However, obtain- Security nags at internet purchasers in Mexico have money and are ing the permits is a challenge. The NEW YORK CITY – An inter- Consumer Internet Barometer, a Conference Board. “In order for buying some of the finest coaches permits require that American net monitoring service says two- quarterly measure of who’s doing companies to realize their market in the world,” he said. “It is going operators carry specific amounts of thirds of consumers are using the what on the internet, which is pro- potential, they must address and to be expensive for them to permit property damage and liability internet to make travel arrange- duced by TNS NFO, the second- communicate to consumers what a bus into the U.S., so they are not insurance, get weighed, and pass ments, and they are very satisfied largest market research organiza- internet security measures they going to do it with a 25-year-old smog and mechanical inspections. customers. tion in the world, and The have in place. If they fail to get bus, but a brand new one or one Such requirements can cost a com- Among those actually using the Conference Board, a business their message across, the gap that is just two or three years old.” pany upwards of $1,000 a year for net to complete travel plans, the research organization. between researchers and purchasers Plus, he said, the buses will be each coach. level of satisfaction runs high, with However, security concerns will continue.” required to pass safety inspections Additionally, coaches from 88 percent saying they are continue to prevent a significant Overall, men seem to be taking – the same ones U.C. coaches must either country are not allowed to “extremely” or “somewhat” satisfied number of consumers from pur- to online travel research and book- pass – to obtain authority for a deadhead into the other’s country, with their travel arrangements. chasing products and services ing more than women, the research U.S. border crossing and access to a requirement that’s designed to The findings are from the online, says Lynn Franco of The indicates. the country’s highways. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — August 1, 2004 — 11 INDUSTRY NEWS Greyhound’s performance brightens during quarter NAPERVILLE, Ill. — Laidlaw For the nine months ended revenue, combined with a reduc- that Greyhound’s poor perform- International Inc. reports that fiscal May 31, 2004, EBITDA earnings at “…management tion in miles operated and work- ance cast doubt on its ability to third-quarter financial results for its Greyhound were $38.3 million, up force size, were major factors in the continue as a going concern. Greyhound Lines subsidiary were from $5.8 million in the period believes that there is profit upswing. Still, Greyhound has tons of sharply improved over the same ended May 31, 2003, or $32.5 mil- Laidlaw also announced Grey- capital needs, plus heavy debt serv- period last year. lion better. no longer a going- hound had amended its revolving ice, meaning it must continue to Greyhound reported revenue of EBITDA is commonly used as a loan agreement, extending the show improvement in its operating $299.7 million for the three measure to evaluate a company’s concern risk (for maturity for two years to Oct. 2006. and financial results. months ended May 31, up from ability to service or incur debt. The amendments require Grey- As a combined company, Laid- $291.4 million for the same period Laidlaw said the 2.8 percent Greyhound) in the hound to jump through financial law International reported third- in 2003. Revenue for the nine increase in revenue for the third hoops that are the same as or more quarter revenue of $1.24 billion, up months ended May 31, totaled quarter and 4 percent increase for near term.” restrictive than its previous agree- 3.1 percent from the $1.2 billion $881.1 million, compared to the nine months ended May 31, ment. for the prior year period. Much of $847.5 million during the period a 2004, was principally due to a increased 1.5 percent and 1.4 per- However, Laidlaw says that im- the revenue growth came from year earlier. favorable foreign currency ex- cent during the three and nine provements in Greyhound’s busi- Laidlaw’s healthcare companies. Earnings at Greyhound before change rate and, to a lesser extent, months ended May 31, 2004. ness and financial picture bode well Operating income for the third interest, income taxes, deprecia- an increase in tour and charter rev- Greyhound’s improved prof- and, in fact, “management believes quarter of 2004 was $89.5 million, tion, amortization expenses and enue due to new contracts. itability, as measured by EBITDA, that there is no longer a going- compared to operating income of accounting rules changes was $15.6 Had there been no change in was primarily due to the company’s concern risk (for Greyhound) in $73.7 million for the prior year million for the 2004 quarter, versus the exchange rate, reflecting Grey- continuing focus on improving rev- the near term.” quarter principally reflecting the $3.4 million during the prior year hound’s Canadian and Mexican enue per mile, and reducing operat- That is significant because for improved performance of Grey- quarter, or a swing of $12.2 million. operations, revenue would have ing costs. The modest increase in months Laidlaw has been saying hound. Coach USA ’04 results show sales, earnings gains PERTH, Scotland – The parent million, or 1.4 percent, from fiscal coach largely completed makeover operating profit. USA during fiscal 2004 totaled company of Coach USA says its 2003 revenue. of Coach USA, selling large seg- “We have grown operating $42.36 million, up from $39.42 North American bus and motor- Operating profit from continu- ments of the business resulting in an profit despite the significant reduc- million in fiscal 2003. coach operation posted improved ing operations at Coach USA for operation that today is focused tion in turnover arising from a Stagecoach also announced that it operating results for the year ended the year ended May 31, 2004, was largely in three areas: the northeast number of business disposals,” said plans to payout more than $458 mil- May 31. $25.4 million, up from $21.8 mil- and north central United States Stagecoach Chief Executive Bian lion to stockholders as a result of its Stagecoach Group PLC of lion for the prior period. and Canada. Souter. “This increased profit has improving financial position. The pay- Perth said that Coach USA reve- Coach USA’s operating profit Stagecoach said that its re- been achieved by growth in our out will be in the form of redeemable nue from continuing operations margin was 4.4 percent for fiscal vamping of Coach USA cost it continuing businesses and a man- shares. The proposal must be approved for the 12 months ended May 31, 2004, versus 2.3 percent in 2003. $10.45 million in restructuring aged reduction in overheads.” by shareholders at Stagecoach’s annu- was $382.6 million, up $377.3 During the past year, Stage- costs, which were charged against Capital spending by Coach al meeting later this month. Greyhound cuts

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 Billings, is trying to figure out how RESTROOM COMPLAINTS? he can fill some of the holes left when Greyhound abandons its run between Fargo, N.D., and Billings. Forseth was among a group of YOU’RE NOT USING … regional operators who met in Minnesota the middle of last month to discuss Greyhound’s de- parture from their region and how they might plug the service holes. Shortages of buses, drivers and other personnel, plus scheduling issues and a tight time frame are some of the issues the operators are attempting to cope with. The abruptness of the shut- downs, and the attendant schedul- ing difficulties have not endeared Greyhound to the regional opera- tors. As part of its restructuring, Greyhound is closing four driver locations – Des Moines, Iowa; CALL US TODAY TO FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN ENTIRELY ELIMINATE Cheyenne, Wyo.; Billings, Mont., and Eugene, Ore. SUMMER RESTROOM COMPLAINTS AND SAVE UP TO 50% OR MORE. Greyhound’s union is telling its members that the next areas on the chopping block are California, the UNIT CHEMICAL CORP (800) 879-8648 www.unitchemical.com southwestern U.S., and Texas. 12 – August 1, 2004 – BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS INDUSTRY NEWS Creative Mobile Interiors delivers custom Sprinter vans COLUMBUS, Ohio – A five- companies in the U.S. installing Europe. stered in leather and the vehicle interior height feels. It’s very spa- year-old bus and specialty vehicle upscale interiors in Sprinter cargo Creative Mobile Interiors of included an outdoor entertainment cious and comfortable.” modification company has become vans built for Freightliner and Grove City, Ohio, a suburb of Co- center, two 37-inch Panasonic plas- While CMI declines to dis- one of only a handful of conversion Dodge by Daimler-Chrysler in lumbus, has begun delivering what it ma TVs, a 22-inch Panasonic LCD close the price of the unit, President calls Sprinter PLVs (personal luxury TV, an in-motion satellite receiver, Owen Connaughton said similar vehicles). The company is installing and a DVD/CD/MP3 player. vehicles sell for about $150,000. upscale interiors in the 21.6-foot Other amenities included an “We’re finding people like vans that are 75 inches wide and onboard microwave, cook top and how unobtrusive the Sprinter is on have a 6-foot-3-inch ceiling. lavatory. The unit seated eight and the outside, and yet how luxurious The Sprinter PLV seats up to can be serviced at any of the 140 and comfortable it is inside,” Con- 10 passengers and is powered by a Freightliner service centers across naughton said. Mercedes-Benz 2.7-liter, turbo- the U.S. CMI operates a 10-bay, charged diesel engine. “I was attracted to the Sprinter 10,000-square-foot facility in One recent Sprinter PLV con- PLV because it offers conversion Grove City. The company modifies version featured European leather coach-quality amenities in a vehi- coaches, trailers and specialty vehi- seating, maple hardwood floors, cle that’s easy to maneuver, park cles of all types and sizes. honey-colored laminate walls and and drive,” said Arthur Hyde, the Additional information is available Corian countertops. The driver owner of the new vehicle. “I also at (614) 539-4600 or by going to and right-front seats were uphol- like how having over six feet of www.creativemobileinteriors.com.

“soft enforcement” approach to Second, the lawsuit that led to Court ruling compliance, as drivers grappled last month’s decision did not take CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 with increased parking problems issue with the FMCSA decision to Congress suspends work attorneys appears to be that the old and driving pressures associated exclude the coach industry from rules would prevail. with the new time constraints. the revised rules for truckers. on highway, transit bill That possibility has state regu- While the turmoil over the The decision to overturn the WASHINGTON – Official The original Senate-passed bill lators, enforcement agencies and court decision does not directly rules was based on the court’s view action on a new six-year highway called for $318 billion in spending. the trucking industry in an uproar. impact the motorcoach industry, it that FMCSA had not fulfilled a and mass transportation bill has Late last month, Sen. James The Commercial Vehicle Safety does create uncertainty about the 1935 statutory mandate to consider been suspended for the next six Inhofe, R-Okla., proposed a com- Alliance, which is composed of future of hours-of-service rules for “the impact of the rule on the weeks while Congress has its sum- promise figure of $301 billion, organizations that enforce the rules, all commercial vehicle drivers, and health of drivers.” The court said mer recess for the political con- with $289 billion in guaranteed has announced it may petition the that is not good. FMCSA may conclude that the ventions. spending. court to keep the new rules in effect When the FMCSA announced new rules do not cause driver Before adjourning, however, The House proposed spending in April 2003 its overhauled hours- health problems or that any such during the redrafting process. Congress adopted and President almost $299 billion on a new bill. And, the American Trucking of-service rules, it decided for the problems are outweighed by other Bush signed the fifth temporary The actual spending under that Associations said it would encour- first time to establish separate rules factors (cost issues, etc.), but that it extension of the old highway law, proposal would be nearly $284 age the FMCSA to seek a stay to for bus and truck drivers. The rules was incumbent on the agency to which expired last September. billion after voiding roughly $15 minimize the confusion, as well as for bus drivers were left unchanged, affirmatively address those issues Under the new stopgap meas- billion in contracts that have not adverse safety consequences, that while those for truckers were and explain its conclusions. ure, highway programs will con- been carried out. would result from putting the old revamped. Some analysts say the agency’s tinue to be funded at previous lev- Senate negotiators agreed to HOS rules back in place for some When the FMCSA made the failure to expressly consider driver els through Sept. 24. consider the House offer during interim period. announcement, it was considered a health consequences is more of a News organizations reported the summer recess. In its decision, the appeals major victory for the over-the-road technicality than a significant flaw congressional negotiators had nar- The White House for months court said it was vacating the rules bus industry. It was seen as an in the rules. These observers hope rowed their differences over a new has threatened to veto any bill because the FMCSA failed to con- acknowledgement by regulators the aency will be able to show that sider the effect of the rules on driv- that there were fundamental differ- the fatigue-reducing measures in bill but it wasn’t clear they were that exceeded $256 billion, stress- ers’ health. ences between hauling people and the new rules will also have a bene- close to getting White House ing the need to control the rising The new rules increased the trucking potatoes. ficial effect on driver health. support. federal budget deficit. number of hours a trucker can drive Two factors would seem to sug- There was speculation the deci- in a single workday to 11 from 10, gest the motorcoach industry might sion by the U.S. court could delay Coalition agencies from providing charter bus and cut the total workday, includ- avoid being dragged into the mael- the announcement of new hours- service, and other protections CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 ing time spent on work-related but strom over revising the hours’ rules. of-service rules in Canada. The Ot- against unfair competition from non-driving activities, to 14 hours First, it would be difficult for the tawa government has been working • Virginia Taxicab Association public transit services. from 15. The mandatory rest period FMCSA to reverse the position it for months to overhaul Canada’s The coalition says it represents Also high on the coalition’s pri- was increased from 8 to 10 hours. took in April 2003, vis-a-vis the commercial vehicle hours-of- more than 17,000 companies that ority list are: Since the rules went into effect over-the-road bus industry when it service rules and an announce- provide intercity bus, charter bus, • Labor protection provisions. in January, DOT has adopted a announced the changes for truckers. ment was expected this month. paratransit, school bus, taxicab, • Greater private-sector partic- limousine, airport shuttle and non- ipation in public transit planning. emergency medical transportation • Enhanced enforcement of HOS problems are fewer then anticipated services to more than 10 billion rules covering private-sector partic- DALLAS — The costs of lost impact of the HOS’ changes that reports early on about utilization passengers annually. ipation in federal transit programs. productivity and higher driver went into effect in January. declines. But that seems to have A half-dozen provisions of the • Allowing private operators to wages resulting from new federal “The improving economy and come back. We’re getting positive highway and public transit bill be secondary recipients of federal hours-of-service rules for drivers tight capacity have made the reports. But the effects may be have been identified as “critical transit grants. were lower than truckload carriers impact of the hours-of-service masked.” issues” that the coalition has unan- In one of its first actions, the originally anticipated, analysis by changes hard to determine,” said Osiecki said the economic and imously endorsed and is enthusias- coalition thanked Sen. Richard fleet officials and American Truck- Dave Osiecki, vice president of capacity effects could linger even if tically supporting. Shelby, chairman of the Senate ing Associations indicate. safety and operations for the the Department of Transportation No. 1 on the coalition hit Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs However, industry representa- American Trucking Associations. changes some parts of the regula- parade is improved administration Committee, for his efforts in pushing tives caution that several factors “Truckload has not seen a huge tion. His comments were echoed and enforcement of the charter key private-sector provisions in the make it difficult to assess the macro impact so far. We were getting by several fleet executives service rules that prohibit transit Senate version of the highway bill. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — August 1, 2004 — 13 INDUSTRY NEWS MCI lengthens warranty period for E/J coaches e n

SCHAUMBURG, Ill. – Motor “We invested $40 million to the E/J/G line. The investment in o r r e F

Coach Industries has extended the make our Winnipeg (manufactur- advanced laser technology pro- t r e b warranties on its flagship models, ing) facility state-of-the-art and it?s duces quality parts with closer tol- o R y extending its responsibility for paying off,” said Tom Sorrells, MCI erances, leading to a better fit and b o t o h manufacturing defects for a year for president and CEO. finish,” Sorrells said. P its top model and six months for its New manufacturing processes, Phil Stevens, MCI manager of best-selling coach. workforce training, workplace quality systems, says the company is The E4500, MCI’s premier redesign and stricter supplier stan- auditing quality on every coach at model, will now carry a three-year dards have significantly improved every step of the assembly process. warranty, up from two years. the quality of MCI coaches, “Our workers’ involvement in the The top-selling MCI J4500 will Sorrells said. quality assurance process gives now carry a 30-month warranty. Additionally, “the lean manu- them a sense of ownership, and it MCI says both warranties are facturing processes we?ve adopted gives us quality and consistency the longest in the industry. have led to greater efficiencies on from start to finish.” MCI’s best-selling J-model now has a 30-month manufacturer’s warranty. New York that the riding public depends on mented system further compounds the private companies during begin subsidizing the MTA for the to get to school, work and around the difficulties we face in meeting months of negotiations no longer increased costs it will have running CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 the city will continue. The public our customers’ transportation apply and new talks between the the new company and operating The mayor said the new must come first.” needs. Nonetheless, I concur with city and the owners of the compa- the 80 bus routes now operated by approach will allow service to con- MTA Chairman Peter Kalikow the mayor that the private bus cus- nies will have to include those the private businesses. tinue uninterrupted, and will allow agreed, although he expressed con- tomers must come first.” issues once again. The MTA had The private companies holding the improved service and efficien- cern about how the new plan The private companies had wor- agreed earlier on issues involving the contracts are Command Bus cies that a reorganized bus service would work. ried about what would happen to employment, fringe benefits and Co., Green Bus Lines, Jamaica under a full takeover by the MTA “The very purpose of the MTA their employees, including union bus bus routes. Buses, Triboro Coach Corp., New would have provided. is to provide coordinated transpor- drivers, some of whom had talked Bloomberg said the city hopes York Bus Service and Liberty Lines. “I am committed to maintain- tation services throughout the New about a possible strike if they were to complete negotiations with the Some of the companies have ing this needed bus service for New York metropolitan region,” he said. not welcomed as part of the MTA private companies in the next few indicated they will be put out of Yorkers,” Bloomberg said, “This “To simply add seven more separate under the initial takeover plan. months while the MTA establishes business if they lose the contracts solution means the transportation bus operations to our already frag- Kelly said concessions given the new company. It then will with the city. 14 — August 1, 2004 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS INDUSTRY NEWS Virginia motorcoach company expands travel operation BLACKSBURG, Va. – The In April, Bill and Sara Ortega, grow by meeting and exceeding ident and manager of the Blacks- tions, cruises, airline tickets, owners of All America Tours, a principals of All America Tours customer needs,” said Bill Ortega, burg location, with oversight of the hotels, car rentals and shore Blacksburg-based motorcoach com- and University Travel Consultants, president. “This acquisition has Roanoke and Christiansburg loca- excursions. The web address is pany, have expanded and renamed purchased the Travelmasters doubled the sales to approximately tions. Additionally, Rosemarie www.UniversityTravel.com. their travel agency. agency in Roanake. During the past $8 million annually,” Ortega Sawdon has been hired as manager “This will enable clients to University Travelmasters, for- three months they have integrated added. of the Christiansburg office. book their own trips, while still merly University Travel Consul- the two travel services into one Travelmasters had been owned Other changes included an having contact with a profession- tants, is a much expanded agency agency serving universities, corpo- and operated by Gene Swartz since updated phone and computer sys- al travel agent for advice and rec- serving the New River and rations and individual travelers. 1972. His wife, Nancy, has tem, new Web-enabled Amadeus ommendations, in essence, having Roanoke valleys with offices in “We’re really pleased to have remained as manager of the computer reservation services, and the best of both worlds,” said Sara Roanoke, Blacksburg and Chris- retained all of the main staff in this Roanoke office; Mr. Swartz retired. a redesigned Web site, featuring Ortega, agency executive vice tiansburg, Va. integration and are now poised to Richard Marchal remains vice pres- online booking engines for vaca- president. Now Available THE Big Fat Bus Book AND THE Big Fat Bus Book on CD Order today! 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Three motorcoach industry stal- member involved with the Motor warts have been named by Metro Carrier Safety Improvement Act of magazine to a list of the 50-most 1999, which created the Federal influential individuals who have Motor Carrier Safety Adminis- helped shape today’s public trans- tration. portation. Honored in Metro’s cen- June Bratcher, president of tennial issue were Frank Martz Daisy Tours in San Antonio, Texas, Henry, chairman of the Martz Group has been honored by the North San Frank M. Henry Peter L. Picknelly William A. Luke June Bratcher Jay Oakman Barbara Wayman of coach companies based in Wilkes- Antonio Chamber of Commerce as Barre, Pa.; Peter L. Picknelly, chair- the Overall Outstanding Small southeast region. Based at ABC’s Creative Mobile Interiors of Grove R.I., has appointed Robert Riedford man of Peter Pan Bus Lines of Business Leader of the Year. Ms. Winter Garden, Fla., facility, Oak- City, Ohio, as director of marketing, as director of business development. Springfield, Mass., and William A. Bratcher’s company offers sightsee- man will be responsible for coach with responsibility for public rela- The National Tour Association Luke, founder of Bus Ride, executive ing, charter and convention services. sales in Tennessee, Kentucky and tions, advertising, promotion and has named Cheryl Ealy as director of director of Buses International It has a fleet of 14 motorcoaches West Virginia. An employee of ABC marketing. Ms. Wayman formerly sales and sponsorship. Ms. Ealy for- Association, and member of the edi- with annual sales of $3.2 million. since October, Oakman at one time was manager of communications for merly was vice president of sales for torial board of Metro. ABC Companies has announced worked at National Coach Works, Custom Coach Corp. of Columbus, the Quad Cities Convention and The U.S. Senate has unani- the appointment of Jay Oakman as managing the parts inventory. Ohio. Visitors Bureau in Moline, Ill./ mously confirmed the nomination of account executive for the company’s Barbara Wayman has joined KVH Industries of Middletown, Davenport, Iowa. Rear Adm. David M. Stone, USN (Ret.), as assistant secretary of homeland security for the Trans- portation Security Administration. Admiral Stone was appointed TSA’s WWhhaatt yyoouu’’vvee bbeeeenn wwaaiittiinngg ffoorr iiss ffiinnaallllyy hheerree...... acting administrator late last year. He retired from active duty in the U.S. Navy in 2002. Deborah Hersman is the newest www.motorcoachexpo.com member of the National Transpor- www.motorcoachexpo.com tation Safety Board. Before joining the board, Ms. Hersman was a staff member of the U.S. Senate Com- mittee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. She was a key staff South Carolina coach association meets this month The siite has everythiing you need,, iinclludiing the llatest hotell,, travell,, MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. – show,, and educatiion sessiion iinformatiion.. The 2004 Motorcoach Associa- tion of South Carolina Annual Regiister onlliine by August 31st get the Earlly Biird Meeting and Market Place will be Aug. 15-17 at the Marriott Resort rate--the llowest regiistratiion rate you’’llll see allll year!! at Grand Dunes in Myrtle Beach. The program for this year’s meeting will focus on information Get the best rate for the best show iin the most exciitiing ciity!! sharing, education, networking and selling. Plus, area attractions Motorcoach Expo 2005 will showcase their products. The meeting opens Sunday, ~ It jjust doesn’’t get any better ~ Aug. 15, with a series of social activities that include golf, fish- ing, shopping and a beach party. The agenda for Monday includes a series of marketplace events, a panel discussion and regulatory update. On Tuesday morning, Peter Pantuso, president of the Ameri- can Bus Association, and Victor Parra, president of the United Motorcoach Association, will provide a state and national industry update, to be followed by networking and seminar sessions on topics ranging from security to student travel. The meeting concludes Wednesday with round table dis- cussions. For information about the meeting and marketplace, call (803) 794-5233 or go to www.scmotorcoach.org.