Bus & Motorcoach News

August 1, 2003

THE NEWS RESOURCE FOR THE BUS AND MOTORCOACH INDUSTRY Proposed rules will mean better hiring info WASHINGTON — The operation of commercial motor Federal Motor Carrier Safety Fuller disclosure of driver history is the goal vehicles on our nation’s roads and Administration has proposed posed rules will require employers information about former records three-times longer. highways,” said Acting FMCSA sweeping new rules designed to to divulge a former employee’s employees by making it a federal At the same time, the supple- Administrator Annette M. significantly improve the ability complete driving history, along regulatory requirement to do so. mental notice of proposed rule- Sandberg. “Providing employers of motorcoach and other com- with any problems the individual Additionally, the rules will making contains elements access to more information about mercial vehicle operators to make had with drugs and alcohol. oblige employers to respond to intended to ensure commercial driver safety performance history smarter and better informed hir- Importantly, the rules also will requests for information about a motor vehicle driver privacy. will ultimately save lives.” ing decisions. provide liability protection to former employee faster and to “These drivers are responsible Such rules have been a top pri- Among other things, the pro- employers for providing such hold on to employee-related for the safe, secure and reliable CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

‘HANG IN THERE!’ Texas operator stays positive despite hurdles By Karen Crabtree CROSBY, Texas — After 12 years of watching bus companies come and go in Houston, Daryl Johnson has grown weary of quality operators having to close their doors. Johnson’s father founded the family Daryl Johnson coach company, J&J Charters, in Crosby a dozen years ago to compete in the Houston market. The company still has its first bus, a 1979 MC-9. Investors to buy chunk of Coach USA Now the second-largest charter and tour oper- PERTH, Scotland — Stagecoach Completion of the transaction is sub- the sale are such well-known operators as ator in the market, with 17 coaches, J&J Group PLC plans to sell the Southeast ject to normal regulatory approvals, final America Charters of Charlotte, N.C.; Charters is struggling like much of the rest of the region of Coach USA, including the confirmation of financing and routine Southern Coach Co. of Durham, N.C.; coach industry. Florida operation, to a group of private closing conditions. The buyers are paying American Coach Lines in Norcross, Ga.; “Sometimes I come to work and I think, ‘have investors that includes two New York- $40 million in cash, with the balance Grayline of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; I lost my mind?’” Johnson said in a recent inter- based investment organizations. financed with an $8 million note. American Bus Lines in Miami; Tippett view. Like other operators, Johnson faces a litany The sale price is $48 million. Coach USA’s Southeast region has Travel in Florida, and Dillion’s Bus of challenges: High fuel costs, staggering insur- The Southeast region of Coach USA been one of its better performing units Service in Millersville, Md. ance premiums, low-balling competitors, weak is comprised of eight companies in despite the lousy economy and the travel At one time, these Coach USA com- demand, skittish customers, and too many buses Maryland, Georgia, North Carolina, as slump in Florida. The region had sales of panies were owned by such industry stal- sitting idle in the yard each day. well as Florida. The units in those states $49.8 million in the 12 months ended warts as Louis Wade Jr., Billy Ray Rhyme, Yet, Johnson remains optimistic. operate more than 500 vehicles and April 30, with an operating profit — Calvin Cooper, Michael Gaddis, Marie He’s convinced the industry is starting to employ 620 people. The deal also before goodwill amortization — of $5.8 and Charles Tippett, Louis Cicerone and make a slow turn toward brighter days. includes the purchase of an additional 58 million, or a margin of more than 11 per- the Dillons — Keith, Brian and Ron. Meanwhile, he’s willing to share what he’s doing vehicles, representing $5 million of the cent. Brian Souter, chief executive of CONTINUED ON PAGE 9 purchase price. Among the companies included in CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

TheThe One More Time boost registration fees by 42 DOCKETDOCKET For the third time in four years, percent. Page 5 the NTSB has taken aim at 15- Safety Concern passenger vans. Page 4 Support sought A fatal fire on a paratransit bus Members of the U.S. Senate has industry safety experts More bad news have been asked to support once again pondering how to In October, motorcoach licens- coach industry intiatives that best to evacuate disabled pas- ing fees tripled in California. will help them compete more sengers. Page 4 Now, state legislators want to effectively. Page 6 One $142,500$142,500 Like Owner! 1999 PREVOST 40’ XL SPECIFICATIONS New! Engine...... Series 50 (320HP) Restroom...... Yes Transmission...... Allison B500 Parcels...... Open Length...... 40 ft Video...... 3 Monitor REI Width...... 102 in. Interior...... Gray Floor, Gray Sidewalls Height...... 130.7 in. Wheels...... Some Aluminum, S/S Inserts & Few Steel Storage Capacity...... 315 cu. ft. Exterior...... S/S Lowers, Red, White & Black Paint Seats...... American (47 & 49 Passenger) Mileage...... 250,000 to 300,000 All Seven Are At Our ABC, Florida Location OFFER EXPIRES 8/31/03

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WESTERN SOUTHEAST MIDWEST NORTHEAST SOUTHWEST 800-322-2877 800-222-2871 800-222-2875 800-222-2873 800-222-2877 WWW.abc-companies.com *Structural Warranty BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — August 1, 2003 — 3 OPERATOR NEWS James River Bus maps new course, buys Carey unit RICHMOND, Va. — James River Bus Lines, one of the mid- Atlantic states’ oldest coach operators, has charted a new strategic direction during its 75th year in business. James River executives spent nearly six months developing a strategic plan that will guide the company for the next three or four years. The purchase a few weeks ago of Carey VIP Chauffeured Services, which offers limousine, sedan, van and minicoach service from three locations in Virginia, is a key component of the plan. “This acquisition is part of an ongoing effort to provide the high- est quality service for our clients,” says company President Stephen W. Story. “Even in difficult eco- costs over more people and vehi- than 50 coaches, serving primarily ness in greater Richmond, its pri- opportunities, and expand business nomic times, it’s essential to main- cles. the central East Coast. mary territory. Another 25 percent with existing clients. tain the level of service that our “Now, no matter who we go to, When Story and his team of the market is what Story calls For example, Richmond has a clients have come to expect.” growing base of corporations, many Acquiring Carey added a new ‘We’re adding on piece by piece. None of these are a of which are James River cus- dimension to James River’s corpo- tomers. These existing clients, as rate makeup, product mix and home run, but a bunch of base hits.’ well as corporations not being operational capability. Integrated served by James River, have into the strategic plan, Carey we can offer them something,” says began the planning process they “hard to get business,” meaning the become a primary target market. allows James River to set a course Story. “Charter, tour services, started with a realistic assessment competition has it largely locked “We can increase this market that includes: meeting and event planning, trans- of their market, the potential of up. The remaining 20-25 percent is because we had our foot in the • Offering a broader range of portation management services, various market segments and their composed primarily of price-sensi- door,” says Story. services; contract services, chauffeured serv- own capabilities. The market tive clients. To capture additional corporate • Targeting new niches, non- ices, you name it.” assessment concluded, among To foster growth, the James business, the company began call- traditional business and less price- Since 1928, James River has other things, that James River had River team decided on a three-part ing on potential corporate cus- sensitive markets; been a family owned motorcoach about maximized its penetration. approach: Target potential customers. At one company, they • Diversifying its products; company. Today, it operates a The company figures it has tomers and markets that are “not were told “we would use you if you

• Spreading its support-service diversified fleet, containing more more than 50 percent of the busi- so price sensitive,” create new CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

On-Highway Diesel Fuel Prices National Motorcoach Network Diesel prices roll up Cents per Gallon 185 marks 20th year with meeting For the first time since the first week in March, diesel fuel prices have posted an increase in every 170 FAIRFAX STATION, Va. — in Washington, D.C., shortly National Motorcoach Network after the federal government region of the United States. 155 The average price across the country was $1.44 Inc., founded in the wake of deregulated the industry.

140 Y deregulation of the over-the-road “The National Motorcoach

a gallon at the end of July, which is 2 cents a gal- G R E

N bus industry in the early 1980s, is Network provided an umbrella

lon higher than the low for the year, $1.42 a gal- E

125 F O marking its 20th year with an where many family-owned motor- .

lon, posted during the last week in June. . T P

E anniversary meeting later this coach companies could develop The $1.44 price puts the U.S. average nearly 110 D . S . month. their marketing talents to com- 13 cents per gallon higher than a year ago. Aug Nov Feb May Aug U : E

C The motorcoach marketing pete in a very different, challeng- Average U.S. diesel prices have been $1.42- R

2001-02 2002-03 U O $1.44 a gallon since the middle of May, reflecting S organization also has issued its ing and competitive environ- an economy that hasn’t been strong enough to put annual National Motorcoach ment,” says Kirchner. “A number much upward pressure on prices. Diesel Fuel Prices Directory, a guide to its 41 motor- of those companies have pros- Diesel is likely to remain steady for another coach operator members, plus pered through the years and are Cents per Gallon Change from two or three weeks before the onset of the annual tour operators, travel resources considered to be leaders in the fall-winter price climb that typically takes diesel Price Week Ago Year Ago and vendors. industry today.” ® prices to their yearly high during the depths of U.S. 143.9® 0.4 12.8 “We continue to service the Now, Kirchner observes, oper-

® many tour operators, travel ators are being severely chal- winter when demand for home heating oil peaks. East Coast 144.7® 0.2 13.3 agents, businesses, schools, col- lenged again, this time by the lin- ® California recorded the biggest upward price New England 156.5® 0.7 16.7 leges, athletic teams and others gering impact of 9/11, the sour ®

bump, with diesel averaging $1.61 per gallon, or 4 Central Atlantic 154.5® 0.1 15.4 who have come to rely on the economy, the war in Iraq and

cents higher than a month ago. The price in ® Lower Atlantic 139.4® 0.1 12.1 California also is more than 21 cents a gallon National Motorcoach Directory higher insurance premiums. The ® Midwest 141.0® 0.2 10.8 higher than it was a year ago. Refinery problems over the past two decades,” says weakened economy has forced ® Gulf Coast 138.7 0.5® 11.0 continue to restrict supplies in the Golden State. Stephen Kirchner, president of companies out of business and ® Rocky Mountain 146.8® 0.1 13.4 The region with the lowest prices — by a the network. produced attrition among mem- ®

West Coast 159.0® 1.8 20.8 noticeable margin — remains the Gulf Coast, fol- Kirchner announced forma- bers of the network. ® lowed by the Lower Atlantic. California 164.0® 2.8 21.3 tion of the network in April Says Kirchner: “This year is 1983, at the National Press Club CONTINUED ON PAGE 12 4 – August 1, 2003 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS TheTThehe DOCKETDDOCKETOCKET Fatal bus fire worries safety community NTSB once again makes One rider could and handled the daily and rou- the rest of the vehicle. tine maintenance on the vehi- Said one witness: “It looked strong recommendations not be evacuated cles. like the engine caught fire. In a ALLENTOWN, Pa. — A Steven Hummel, executive matter of minutes, the entire bus concerning 15-pax vans horrific fire in a midsize para- director of VAST, said the was in flames.” The cutaway was WASHINGTON — For the wheel on the van drops off the transit bus that killed a disabled agency’s buses have preventive built on a Ford E450 chassis and third time in four years, the edge of the pavement. The likeli- man has the nation’s bus safety maintenance inspections every had a diesel engine. National Transportation Safety hood of a rollover increases even community again worrying 5,000 miles or two months. He One of the problems in deal- Board has targeted the safety of more when the van is loaded with about the issue of how to deal said VAST drivers undergo safe- ing with the incident apparently 15-passenger vans, issuing new passengers. That’s because the with such incidents. was the failure of the wheelchair recommendations designed to center of gravity is raised. “This is a great example of lift to function after the fire reduce the number and severity of The Safety Board concluded the problem (and lack of a solu- ‘ In a matter started. Two bystanders were crashes involving large vans. following its latest investigation tion) with emergency evacua- able to lift one of the women of minutes The latest recommendations that the safe operation of 15-pas- tion of disabled passengers,” said passengers off the extended were issued last month following a senger vans requires a knowledge one safety consultant. the entire wheelchair lift ramp while she NTSB investigation of two and skill level different and above The tragedy that has the was still in her chair. bus was in rollover accidents involving 15- that for automobiles, particularly industry buzzing occurred in late The man who was killed died passengers vans two years ago. In when the big vans are fully loaded June in east Allentown when an flames.’ while sitting in his wheelchair both crashes, a single van was or drivers experience an emer- engine-compartment fire in a on the extended ramp that could involved and no other vehicle. gency situation. Goshen cutaway bus operated by ty training because they deal not be lowered. The first crash occurred near “The NTSB’s recommenda- a paratransit service quickly mainly with disabled and elderly Heat detectors and fire sup- Henrietta, Texas, in May 2001, tions are based on fact, science spread to the passenger cabin. riders. VAST makes 1,200 pick- pression systems have long been and the other near Randleman, and data. And our analysis in Several passers-by helped pull ups per day in Lehigh and considered — and sometimes N.C., in July 2001. In the Texas these accidents demonstrate that two elderly women out of the Northampton counties. employed — to deal with such crash, the left rear tire blew, send- we must do more to protect chil- burning bus, but were unable to The driver of the bus that incidents. However, one state ing a 1993 Dodge van off the dren and adults who travel in 15- save a man in a wheelchair who burned has been with the service transit official said the effective- road, causing it to roll. Four peo- passenger vans,” said Ellen G. died in the inferno. for a year and a half and he ness of fire suppression systems ple died, including the driver, and Engleman, NTSB chairman. The bus was owned by reportedly did all he could to depends on where the sensors eight others were seriously hurt. The Safety Board’s No. 1 rec- LANTA, the public transit sys- save the victim. are relative to the fire and what The North Carolina crash ommendation was that all states tem serving Allentown, A police official said the driv- temperature thresholds are used. involved a 1989 Dodge van that and the District of Columbia Bethlehem and Easton, Pa. The er pulled over after noticing A long-time coach industry also suffered a blowout of its left establish a driver license endorse- service was operated by the smoke coming from the air con- source said it may once again be rear tire. The driver couldn’t con- ment for 15-passenger vans Valley Association for Special- ditioning vents. When he time to reconsider suppression trol the van and it rolled, ejecting requiring drivers to complete a ized Transportation (VAST) and opened the hood, he discovered and detector technology, and passengers. One person died, training program on the opera- Easton Coach of Easton, Pa., the engine compartment in whether it should be mandatory three others had serious injuries, tion of the vans and pass a written which also provided the drivers flames. The fire quickly spread to on all ADA accessible vehicles. and nine passengers and the driv- and skills test. er were less seriously injured. Simulations by the Safety In both crashes, the NTSB Board of the Texas accident show Tour directors’ status is focus of fight decided the probable cause was that passengers would not have WASHINGTON — The much-needed clarity to this long- entertainment of travelers, and I tire failure, plus the drivers’ been ejected, nor would they National Tour Association and standing and challenging issue,” can’t think of anything more man- inability to maintain control. have received such serious the U.S. Tour Operators Associ- said NTA President Hank agerial than that,” said Martin Contributing to the severity of injuries, if they had been wearing ation have petitioned the Labor Phillips. Elson, chair of NTA’s government the accidents, according to the lap/shoulder belts. Therefore, the Department to clarify the employ- NTA and USTOA are asking relations committee and president NTSB, was the lack of appropri- board recommended that ment status of tour directors. the Department of Labor to devel- of Parker Tours. “It is clear they ate Federal Motor Vehicle Safety adjustable lap/shoulder belts be The associations have hired a op specific regulations regarding are managers and should be Standards applicable to 15-pas- installed in all seating positions in Washington-area think tank spe- tour directors, clearly defining exempt employees.” senger vans in the area of 15- passenger vans. cializing in tax and labor issues, their status. In their letter, the tour associa- restraints and occupant protec- The board also recommended the Argus Group, to help with The associations submitted a tions said the tour industry has tion. In the Texas accident, two that manufacturers develop their lobbying regarding regula- 20-page letter to the administrator been plagued by litigation over the persons were wearing lap/shoulder stronger roof structures to provide tions governing exempt and non- of the Wage and Hour Division of appropriate employment classifi- belts. Seven passengers were better protection when vans roll. exempt tour director employees. the DOL Employment Standards cation of tour directors. “We sup- ejected. The NTSB wants the improved The issue of whether tour Administration setting out their port standards clarifying that the In the Randleman, N.C., acci- protection for 2006 models. directors are exempt or non- position. The letter was in occupation of tour director — a dent, the driver was wearing a lap/ The NTSB asked the National exempt employees has plagued response to a Labor Department vital and necessary component of shoulder belt and the front-seat Highway Safety Administration, tour operators since the early proposal that would make it easier all packaged tours — is precisely passenger was wearing the lap in cooperation with the Federal 1990s. Because tour directors are for tour directors to be classified as the type of employee that ought to portion of a lap/shoulder belt. Motor Carrier Safety Administra- most often seasonal employees, non-exempt. be exempt,” they wrote. Four passengers were ejected. tion, to revise its definitions of working non-traditional hours, “I feel very strongly about the The NTA is an organization of A number of studies and inves- buses and commercial motor the associations believe there is an exempt/non-exempt employee nearly 4,000 tourism professionals tigations by the NTSB and others vehicles to apply consistently to open question whether tour direc- issue. It is unrealistic to create representing the packaged travel have shown that 15-passengers 12- and 15-passenger vans, taking tors’ status should be regarded as minimum hours for tour directors industry. The USTOA is com- have a high propensity to roll into account the unique operat- exempt or non-exempt. because it is the tour director’s job prised of more than 800 leading over when there is an incident, ing characteristics and multiple The associations hope “to bring to maintain the safety, welfare and tour companies. such as a blowout, or when a front functions of these vans. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — August 1, 2003 — 5 THE DOCKET More bad news for operators in California SACRAMENTO, Calif. — In California, it rains higher taxes and it pours fee increases for motorcoach companies and other operators of commercial vehicles. A bill now making its way through the state legislature would increase weight fees for commercial vehicles by 42 percent effective Dec. 31. That means a 48,000 pound motorcoach coach would see its gross weight fee increase by $404 annually, going from $948 to $1,352. The weight fee for a 40,000 pound coach would jump $357. Weight fees are part of the state vehicle registration fee structure. In California, commercial vehicle registration fees are based on a vehicle’s declared operating weight. The proposed weight-fee change would be in addition to the tripling of vehicle licensing fees that go into effect Oct. 1. As reported in the July 15 issue of Bus & Motorcoach News, vehicle licensing fees are being returned to 2 percent of the vehicle value later this year. For the past five years, the licensing fee has been 0.65 percent of the value. A coach company that has been paying $15,000 annually in vehicle licensing fees will see that number go to more than $45,000. The bad news doesn’t end there. The bill (AB 1767) that proposes increasing weight fees also contains a provision that would index certain other fees imposed by the California Department of Motor Vehicles for various transactions. In other words, the fees would go up automatically each year, beginning in 2005, at the same rate as inflation. To pass, the weight-fee leg- islation requires a two-thirds vote from both houses of the legislature. It already has passed the General Assembly and is slated for Senate action next. The Senate has until September to act on the bill. Sample Proposed Fees Gross vehicle Fee Weight range 10,001-15,000 $371 20,001-26,000 $623 30,001-35,000 $926 40,001-45,000 $1,194 45,001-50,000 $1,352 6 – August 1, 2003 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS TheTThehe DOCKETDDOCKETOCKET ABA president asks Washington

New Hampshire Maine Minnesota Vermont Montana North Dakota senators to support Oregon Wisconsin Region 3 Massachusetts Idaho South Dakota New York Rhode Michigan Island Connecticut Wyoming Iowa Pennsylvania New Jersey industry initiatives Nebraska Ohio Nevada Region 1 Illinois Delaware Indiana West Maryland WASHINGTON — The wheelchair compliance. Utah Virginia Colorado Virginia California Kansas Missouri president and CEO of the “The Americans with Disabil- Kentucky American Bus Association has ities Act requires virtually all North Carolina Tennessee South called on Congress to weave the scheduled-service coaches to be Oklahoma Arkansas Arizona Carolina motorcoach industry into the equipped with wheelchair lifts by New Mexico Region 2 Missis- Alabama Georgia larger fabric of the national trans- 2012,” Pantuso said. According to sippi REGION I: portation network by making several studies, the annual cost to Texas In Canada: British Columbia, Alberta, Louisiana Florida small, targeted investments in the the industry is $40 million, yet Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Yukon, and the N.W. Territories. industry. the grant program developed to REGION II: “The needs of the private bus assist the industry is funded at Canada: Ontario. industry are small but the payoff only $7 million.The need for REGION III: to the traveling public is great,” additional funds is clear.” In Canada: Quebec, New Brunswick,Newfoundland & Labrador, Peter Pantuso said in testimony Pantuso cited a similar need Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. late last month before a subcom- for a dedicated source of funding mittee of the Senate Banking, to create a network of intermodal Housing and Urban Affairs passenger facilities across the U.S. Committee. The committee hear- Such facilities provide seamless Deadline near for UMA board ing was called to address the issue intercity and local public trans- WASHINGTON — Sept. 1 Region III (The Northeast): must state the candidate’s name, of enhancing private participa- portation, and spawn economic is the deadline for letters of nom- Mitch Guralnick of Victoria Bus company affiliation and home- tion in providing public trans- development. ination for the board of directors in Boston. base location. Letters of nomina- portation. The Bush Administration’s of the United Motorcoach Qualification standards for tion also must be postmarked no Pantuso asked committee highway reauthorization proposal, Association. directors can be found in Article later than Sept. 1, 2003. The members to be cognizant of public SAFETEA, contains a provision One director will be elected IV of the UMA Bylaws printed UMA Nominating Committee transit agencies that illegally pro- to establish a federal fund of $85 from two of UMA’s three mem- in the back of the UMA will certify eligibility of each vide charter services to the public million for the development of bership regions (see accompany- Membership Directory. candidate to produce a list of in contravention of Federal intermodal passenger facilities, ing map), while two directors Nominations must come from nominees in each region no later Transit Administration charter while the House transportation will be elected from the third among UMA active members, than Oct. 1. rules. Congress needs to insure bill seeks $100 million for inter- region. All four seats being filled who are motorcoach operators. Ballots will be mailed to fairness in competition and level modal centers. Pantuso asked the are the result of expiring three- Nominations are open to any UMA members by Oct. 15, and the playing field, he said. banking committee to include the year terms of incumbent direc- person who officially represents must be returned no later than “Publicly funded transit sys- provision in its highway reautho- tors, who may seek re-election. an active UMA-member compa- Nov. 15. Winners will be tems and public officials are rization bill. The directors whos seats ny in good standing. Directors announced in the Dec. 1, issue of attempting to ‘move in’ on trans- Pantuso also asked for more expire this year are: Region I serve without pay, but the associ- Bus & Motorcoach News. portation operations that the pri- funds for rural bus service. “There (The West): Todd Holland of ation generally reimburses direc- Questions about nominations vate sector provides efficiently had been a decline in rural inter- Ramblin’ Express in Colorado tors for travel and accommoda- should be directed to the associ- and cost effectively,” Pantuso said. city bus service for 30 years, when Springs; Region II (The tions while performing UMA ation at (800) 424-8262. Mail “Our industry is in a unique more than 20,000 communities Midwest): Dave Brown of business and/or attending com- nomination letters to: UMA position,” Pantuso told the com- lost bus service. But the existence Holiday Tours in Randleman, mittee meetings and mid-year Nominations, 113 S. West St., mittee. While public transit sys- and success of the Section 5311(f) N.C., and Brian Scott of Escot director meetings. 4th Floor, Alexandria, VA tems, the airlines and Amtrak rural over-the-road bus program Bus Lines in Largo, Fla, and Written letters of nomination 22314-2824. provide critical services, it is not in the mid 1990s reversed the without a hefty subsidy from the decline and in some areas of the federal government and the country has increased rural inter- Public agencies seek private charter firms nation’s taxpayers. city bus service,” Pantuso noted, “Yet,” Pantuso said, “motor- adding that funding for the pro- The following public transit Schreiner, Director of Service Aug. 31, 2003. Write to: Manager, coaches actually carry more pas- gram should be increased. providers have informed the Development, Housatonic Area Crawford County Transportation sengers than the airlines and He also asked senators to sup- United Motorcoach Association Regional Transit District, 62 Authority, 4276 West North Amtrak combined — 774 million port initiatives that would allow of their intent to provide charter Federal Road, Danbury, CT Down River Road, Grayling, passengers annually, providing a motorcoaches to share parking service unless willing and able pri- 06810. Phone: (203) 744-4070. Mich. 49738. Phone: (517) 348- variety of services to more than facilities with transit buses as a vate charter operators step forward Troy, Ohio. Deadline: Aug. 7, 8215. 5,000 communities nationwide.” means of providing additional to offer their services, or to bid on 2003. Write to: Executive Ashtabula, Ohio. Deadline: In his remarks, Pantuso listed a coach parking in city centers and contract opportunities. Director, Miami County Transit, Sept. 2, 2003. Write to: Manager, handful of initiatives he said reducing the need for costly sepa- Operators are urged to respond 1695 Troy-Sidney Road, Troy, Ashtabula County Transportation could enhance coach industry rate parking lots, inclusion of pri- to these public notices: Ohio 45373. Phone: (937) 335- System, 4332 Main Ave., participation in public transporta- vate operators in planning proj- Danbury, Conn. Deadline: 7921. Ashtabula, Ohio 44004. Phone: tion, including the need for ects, and more flexibility in idling Aug. 6, 2003. Write to: Richard Grayling, Mich. Deadline: (440) 994-2003. increased funding for ADA rules. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — August 1, 2003 — 7 THE DOCKET Texas greatly expands roadside bus inspections

AUSTIN, Texas — A roadside Lines. said driver violations included waiting areas and medical facili- miles west of Odessa. bus inspection program that was “Bus travel is the safest mode not having valid commercial ties. • Interstate 30, eastbound and west- tested in Texas for three months of transportation but we always driver licenses and logbooks. The Prestridge and others in the bound, at Mile Post 158 near Mount beginning late last year has been seek to increase safety,” said Jerry vehicle violations included defec- industry were concerned initially Pleasant. expanded to 25 inspection sites Prestridge, executive director of tive turn signals, cracked rims and that the inspections would incon- • Interstate 10 eastbound one mile east across the state. the association. “This program inoperable emergency exits. venience and possibly endanger of the Brazos River near Brookshire. The Texas Department of targets the carriers with the great- During the inspections, most passengers, and delay buses. But • I-10 westbound one mile west of the Public Safety instituted the pro- est safety risk, while at the same of which will continue to be con- those concerns haven’t come to Brazos River near Sealy. gram in December, following a time implementing procedures ducted at weigh stations, DPS pass, Prestridge said. • I-10, eastbound and westbound, at series of high-profile bus crashes designed to minimize passenger “Knowing there could be an Mile Post 812 west of Winnie. in Texas over a 15-month stretch. inconvenience.” inspection of a bus will make that • I-10, eastbound and westbound, near During the three-month test, Texas Department of Public ‘During the pilot bus company more cognizant of Kingsbury. bus inspections were performed at Safety Maj. Coy Clanton said the maintaining the bus in a safe con- • I-45 northbound at Mile Post 101 near 5 state weigh stations. That num- agency decided to expand the program, 218 buses dition and being sure the driver is New Waverly. ber is growing to at least 25 program after the pilot project were inspected and qualified,” Prestridge noted. • I-45 southbound 0.7 miles north of statewide. uncovered plenty of violations. “Terminal and destination Centerville. All charter, tour and sched- He said he believes the program 16 drivers and 17 inspections will continue but • U.S. 281, northbound and southbound, uled-service buses must stop has heightened the industry’s expanding our enroute program near Falfurrias. whenever a sign announcing the awareness of the need to meet buses were put to additional locations around • I-35, northbound and southbound, at inspections is posted at the sites. safety requirements. the state will give us one more Devine. In the past, Texas typically has During the pilot program, out of service.’ tool to assure buses and bus driv- • I-35 southbound 1.3 miles north of San inspected buses at terminals and which ended in March, 218 buses ers are operating safely,” added Marcos. destination points. The state has were inspected and 16 drivers and troopers examine the driver’s Randall Elliston, chief of the • I-35 northbound 2.5 miles north of San never had a regular roadside 17 buses were put out of service commercial license, medical cer- Texas DPS Traffic Law Enforce- Marcos. inspection program. The random for safety and other violations. tificate and logbook. Buses will ment Division. • I-40, eastbound and westbound, near terminal and destination inspec- One of the first inspections receive different levels of scrutiny Shamrock. tion program will continue. resulted in the arrest of a charter- that will focus on equipment such Bus inspection sites • U.S. 59 northbound near Hungerford. The expanded roadside pro- bus driver on suspicion of driving as brakes, lights, tires and safety Here are the roadside bus • U.S. 59 southbound near Sugar Land. gram is being supported by the while intoxicated on Interstate features, DPS officials said. inspection stations. • U.S. 77 near Riviera. Texas Bus Association, which 45 north of Houston in Walker The vehicles are being • Interstate 20, eastbound and west- • U.S. 287 north of Childress. represents eight over-the-road bus County. inspected at sites with easy access bound, at Mile Post 546 near Tyler. • U.S. 87 at Grape Creek near San operators, including Greyhound DPS spokesman Tom Vinger to restrooms, phones, food, secure • I-20, eastbound and westbound, nine Angelo.

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Adapter E-MAIL: [email protected] charging system with amp load. harness available. 8 – August 1, 2003 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS THE DOCKET Operators need strong associations Feds clear out pile UMA CEO advocates tion and visitor bureaus,” Parra update on issues facing the continued. “If we’re overly coach industry on Capital Hill. state level action taxed that affects their cus- Topics surfaced by Parra of proposed rules ATLANTA — Victor Parra, tomers.” included the Federal Motor president and chief executive of When state and local gov- Carrier Safety Administration cannot operate them without the United Motorcoach Associ- ernments boost fees and taxes proposal to study bus crashes to Schemes dating leaving his or her seat. ation, says coach companies paid by coach companies, and get a better fix on causes and back 10 years The law was enacted in the need aggressive state associa- operators are forced to raise the highway and public trans- early 1950s when it was feared tions to fend off efforts by prices, that results in many portation reauthorization bill. hit dumpster TVs would be mounted where politicians and bureaucrats to coach travelers having less to The crash study, should the drivers could watch and become impose new taxes and fees. spend for the trip, Parra said. “It FMCSA decide to under take it, WASHINGTON — The distracted. That problem never “We need strong state associ- means less that they spend at will be far reaching and doubt- Department of Transportation has materialized — largely because ations,” Parra told members of their hotel, at their destination less focus on crashes resulting decided to trash a handful to regu- owners aren’t stupid, they recog- the Georgia Motorcoach or anywhere else they go.” from driver error, Parra said. latory initiatives aimed in large nized the inherent safety risk of Operators Association at their “Unfortunately, these are The Bush Administration’s measure at the coach industry. allowing drivers to watch TV annual meeting here last challenging times and I don’t massive Safe, Accountable, The decision to withdraw the while driving. month. “We’re in for the fight see any immediate relief in the Flexible and Efficient Transport- proposed rulemakings is part of an Meanwhile, new technology of our lives. Every governor is near future,” Parra said. “A ation Equity Act of 2003, or initiative by Transportation Sec- came along in the form of com- facing deficit spending. And strong Georgia Motorcoach SAFETEA, contains numerous retary Norman Mineta to resolve munication systems, dash-board some are in the political fight of Operators Association that’s provisions that will impact the long-pending regulatory proposals displays and Intelligent Transpor- their lives,” often because of the focused on the needs of its coach industry, said Parra. by either bringing them to com- tation systems that use small TV- budgetary situation in their members can become a vital But he indicated it is unlike- pletion or eliminating them. like monitors to communicate state, Parra noted. resource for all of you in this ly the bill will pass this year — In some cases, the proposed information. There was concern “We will need to tell our room.” even though the current law regulations had been hanging the 1950s-era law would prohibit story forcefully, convincingly In his remarks, Parra cited a expires in October. “I don’t around for more than a decade the use of the new systems. That and passionately. We need to long list of fee and tax increases think it will happen this year,” and represented a investment of hasn’t happened, of course. The say how much money we con- imposed this year on operators he said. thousands of manhours and hun- displays are now commonplace. tribute to the local economy across the U.S. In many cases, Parra believes the current dreds of thousands of dollars. Nevertheless, the FMCSA and the tax base of that state. the increases came in states law will be extended through At the same time, the depart- decided it likes the idea of keeping “We need to involve our lacking a state motorcoach continuing resolutions — as ment says it has taken steps to the old law designed to prohibit partners in these fights — the association. happened with the federal improve its rulemaking process, unsafe driver behavior, but it does- hotels, destinations, conven- Parra also provided an budget at the end of last year. including creating an effective n’t think it will discourage the use tracking system for significant of the new technologies that inquiries from prospective motor controlled substances. rulemakings to ensure they are employ display screens. FMCSA carrier employers about former The proposal also requires either completed in a timely man- Still, there remains lingering CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 drivers. The requirement would employers to retain reportable ner or the delays are identified and concern that the new displays are ority of the United Motorcoach extend for three years after a driv- accident information for three fixed. Through the tracking sys- distractive. Lancer Insurance, for Association and others in the er has left a previous employer. years. Currently, they have to tem, a monthly Internet-accessi- example, says that while it over-the-road bus industry for At a minimum, former keep such information for one ble report is available to the pub- applauds the FMCSA’s efforts to years. Despite the added regula- employers will be required to pro- year. lic. Go to http://regs.dot.gov. be flexible, it remains uneasy tory burden imposed on opera- vide: The proposed rulemaking is Four of the terminated Federal about the potential safety prob- tors, the ability to get meaningful • Information verifying a driv- part of an aggressive effort by Motor Carrier Safety Administra- lems with systems that have driv- hiring information and to have er worked for that employer and Administrator Sandberg to clear tion rulemakings deal with sleeper ers splitting their attention protection for providing factual the dates of employment. out a backlog of rules that berths, operation of television between driving and reading com- information about a former • Information indicating Congress ordered the FMCSA to receivers and data display termi- puter-generated messages. employee is seen as a better-than- whether a driver was involved in develop during the past half- nals on coaches, an English-lan- Additionally, the FMCSA has even trade-off. any reportable accidents. dozen or more years. guage qualification requirement trashed a 1994 proposed rule cov- In announcing its proposal, • A driver’s three-year alcohol In this case, the FMCSA is for drivers, and out-of-service ering the use and design of driver the FMSCA said the rules would and controlled substance history. fulfilling its obligations under the criteria. sleeper berths used in motor- put a limitation on the liability of • Information indicating Transportation Equity Act for the The proposed rule relating to coaches. “At this time, FMCSA those who are required to provide whether a driver failed to com- 21st Century, adopted more than out-of-service had to do with a chooses not to establish design- and use driver safety performance plete a drug or alcohol rehabilita- five years ago. scheme to incorporate the North restrictive regulatory standards for information. If adopted, the rules tion referral prescribed within the The proposed rules will apply American Uniform Out-of- the use of sleeper berths on motor- would enable motor carriers to previous three years, but only if to all motor carriers subject to Service Criteria into the Federal coaches without authoritative obtain and use more complete that information is recorded with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. research to guide their develop- driver background information. the responding previous employ- Regulations. FMCSA officials decided that try- ment,” the agency said. By using the information, says er. The complete rules are avail- ing to fit the criteria into federal Also headed to the dumpster is the FMCSA, employers can bet- • Information indicating that able on the Internet at regulations would create all sorts a proposed rule that would make ter assess the potential safety risks a driver illegally used alcohol and http://fmcsa.dot.gov. Or, search of problems, not the least of which changes to a provision in federal of new employees. However, the controlled substances after hav- for docket number FMCSA-97- would be the difficulty of keeping safety regulations involving proposed rules also require ing completed a rehabilitation 2277 at http://dms.dot.gov. the regulations up to date to English. prospective employers to advise referral, but only if that informa- Written comments on the pro- reflect changes in buses and The FMCSA concluded there driver applicants that they can tion is recorded with the previous posal should be sent by Sept. 2, to trucks. So, the rule was dumped. is no quantifiable data on which review, request correction or employer. the USDOT Docket Facility, Seven years ago, the FMCSA’s to propose modifying existing reg- refute what a previous employer The proposal increases from Attn: Docket No. FMCSA-97- predecessor agency proposed elim- ulations to require a more strin- provides in the driver’s employ- two to three years the period dur- 2277, Room PL-401, 400 inating a federal law that prohibits gent English-speaking standard, or ment history. ing which previous employers Seventh Street, S.W., Washing- drivers from watching TV while to require the states to administer Under the proposal, a previous must provide information regard- ton, D.C. 20590-0001. Com- driving. The law even requires a specific test for English profi- employer would be required to ing violations of the federal regu- ments may be submitted electron- that controls for on-board televi- ciency. This proposed rule dated respond within 30 days to lations relating to alcohol and ically at http://dms.dot.gov. sions be located where the driver back to early 1997. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — August 1, 2003 — 9 INDUSTRY NEWS

of the United Motorcoach restructuring of the loan. Johnson Association last year. Let them know what you’re CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Callers to J&J Charters get a doing to increase bookings, or Trailways adds new members to keep the wolves at bay and 10-point checklist of questions to that next month’s bookings look what he thinks other operators ask before purchasing motorcoach good, and that you’ve got a future should be doing. services, and Johnson urges cus- revenue stream coming. Develop in Tennessee, South Dakota “Most operators in Houston tomers to visit the coach opera- a plan that both of you can live FAIRFAX, Va. — The coach. Today, the company has a are saying ‘I’ve got to slash my tors they are considering hiring. with, and let your finance compa- Trailways Transportation System fleet of 10 coaches. prices’ and I’m telling them ‘No, “If we can get them to visit, we are ny know what you can pay and has added two members to its char- Earlier this year, Connor pur- you don’t,’ ” says Johnson. “Low- going to sell them…whether we when. ter and tour division, Gentry chased the tour division of the balling prices just to get a coach are higher in cost or not,” he says. “Most finance companies are Trailways of Knoxville, Tenn., and South Dakota Farmer’s Union and on the road doesn’t help any- Keeping everything — from willing to work with you as long Prairie Coach Trailways of Dell is looking to expand its tour busi- body.” the landscaping to the stationery as you talk to them,” says Rapids, S.D. ness. “The Farmer’s Union has According to Johnson, opera- — immaculate and professional is Johnson. “When they can’t reach William Gentry, president of more than 50 years of experience tors that price trips too low — critical to securing business, you and you don’t return their Gentry Trailways, was born into a in the motorcoach tour business, just to get business — are pricing Johnson says, noting that in calls…you don’t want to go bus family. His uncle was a and we’re excited about the growth themselves right out of business. today’s operating environment, there.” Trailways agent and his father potential,” Connor said. Additionally, they won’t have the everything is about survival. He also advises against taking started a school bus firm in 1953. Prairie Coach Trailways also reserves to pay for unexpected but “Success right now is avoiding cost-cutting shortcuts because Gentry Trailways still operates provides charters for schools, inevitable costs or repairs, and bankruptcy.” they’ll come back to haunt you. school buses and is celebrating its churches and colleges, as well as they won’t have enough cash for Johnson also is an advocate of Those companies that operate 50th year in that business. In 1991, five semi-professional sports teams. preventative maintenance. keeping communication lines without insurance, or are under- Gentry started buying motor- This is not the time to take open — even when the message insured, will be stripped bare coaches and has built a strong rates back to what they were years you have to deliver isn’t what the when the inevitable accident charter business serving seniors, Milestone ago, says Johnson. “It’s hard to get listener wants to hear. For exam- happens, he says. children, athletic teams and the Vansco Electronics Ltd., the (operators) to understand that if ple, finance companies are calling There have been days when University of Tennessee. Winnipeg, Manitoba-based man- we all stick to prices (that earn a more often to get an update. too many, or even all, of Gentry said he joined Trailways ufacturer of controls, instruments profit), then we all make money,” “They don’t want the equipment Johnson’s coaches were sitting in because “there is credibility that and systems for the bus and other he argues. back,” he says, but they do want the yard. He has considered goes with the name. Trailways has industries, is celebrating its 25th Johnson says the way to com- to know what you’re doing to downsizing his fleet, the majority been around for over 67 years and anniversary. The company prod- pete with operators that continue keep the business afloat. of which are 1997 or newer we have been around for 50. I uct line ranges from individual to drop prices below the level of There are more options than coaches, but he’s working hard to think we make a great team.” electronic parts to completely profitability is to stress service, many operators might think avoid that step. Prairie Coach Trailways is a integrated systems, including the dependability and reputation. when it comes to working with “It’s a tough industry,” he says. community- and team-oriented Vansco Multiplexing System. “Show your proof of insurance, finance companies, says Johnson. “You just have to decide, ‘Hey I’m company that has made its mark Annual sales are $100 million. list the benefits of being a mem- He suggests asking for a reduced going to be here’ and we’ll suffer providing VIP and executive trans- The company expects to reach ber of UMA and ABA, and payment schedule through the through the bad times. Those portation services. $200 million in sales within two emphasize your DOT safety rat- lean months, requesting current that hang in there are those that Company President Bill years and $400 million by 2008. ing,” he says. payments be moved to the end of will do pretty good when things Connor founded Prairie Coach Learn more about Vansco and Johnson was elected a director the note or looking at a complete turn around.” five years ago with one VIP motor- its products at www.vansco.ca. New hub covers cover axle, lugs GURNEE, Ill. — RealWheels Cover Company Inc. has introduced new “Cover-Up” hub covers with a low-profile design for aluminum wheels. The RealWheel caps are the only system that covers the axle and lug nuts, and feature the company’s patented “Thread Lock” Bracket. The bracket eliminates the need to remove the lug nuts to install the covers since the “Thread Lock” Bracket fits over them, making installation easy. The covers’ smooth appearance makes for quick cleaning and the front covers feature a pop-in center for convenient oil cap viewing. Made of high-quality, non-mag- netic 304L stainless steel, they will not corrode or turn yellow. RealWheels offers a lifetime mir- ror-shine finish guarantee and an exclusive two-year rebuffing warranty on all axle covers. For information, go to www.realwheels.com, or call (800) 982-1180 for a catalog. 10 – August 1, 2003 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS INDUSTRY NEWS Safety in numbers Tough reading: Your property insurance policy Last month, the National Highway For the better part of a decade, the erty section: The type of property ils excluded. Some examples of Traffic Safety Administra-tion released over-the-rode bus industry has justifi- covered, and the perils insured property that is excluded are its annual report on highway accidents ably touted its safety record. The against. Clearly you will be look- vehicles, aircraft, watercraft, and once again the report was absent industry needs to exercise caution, of ing for the identification of the crops, outdoor signs, fences and any meaningful information on the course, in its claims. Three times dur- buildings and structures, includ- retaining walls, roads and paving. safety record of the coach industry. ing the past decade, the U.S. commer- ing fixtures, machinery and Some examples of perils NHTSA routinely collects and cial airline industry has gone through equipment. You would then look excluded are frost, cold weather, reports safety data — in great detail — an entire year without a single fatality, for additional endorsements to ruptures of water pipes, floods and on passenger cars, large trucks, pickup including last year. Tom cover personal property, such as earthquakes — in particular DeMatteo trucks, vans and sport utility vehicles, It is surprising to some that there equipment, furniture, property of states. Keep in mind the exclu- but it largely ignores buses. It does this aren’t more coach crashes in the U.S. By Thomas D. DeMatteo others, newly acquired property sions can be brought back in despite the fact that buses transport After all, the industry is in a period of Vice President & General Counsel and the like. under an insurance policy but it upwards of 700 million people annual- major stress that might augur more ABC Companies The next area in the property will likely cost you more money ly, more than the airlines and Amtrak crashes, not better safety. section identifies the perils and would be included in an combined, according to a study con- Despite the fact it is difficult to get Reading and understanding an insured against, such as fire, van- extended endorsement. ducted three years ago for the ABA. an overall fix on the industry safety insurance policy is extremely dif- dalism, storms and so on. You Typical exclusions in a liabili- In its 110-page 2002 Annual record because of the dearth of infor- ficult because of the arcane lan- ty policy are discrimination in Assessment of Motor Vehicle Crashes, mation, there are encouraging signs. guage and the use of words that employee matters, punitive dam- NHTSA devotes two footnotes on two In June, 515 coaches were inspect- have meaning particular to the ‘You may ages, product liability and certain pages to bus accident reporting. On ed as part of Roadcheck 2003, the insurance business. So, I thought need extended types of auto liability. page 21, Occupants Killed in Motor giant roadside inspection exercise con- I’d explain the typical structure of The conditions section con- Vehicle Crashes by Type of Vehicle, ducted annually under the aegis of the a policy so you can understand coverage for tains cancellation provisions NHTSA lumps buses with ‘Other CVSA. Last year, 334 buses were what it usually contains. ranging between 30-60 days. It Vehicles.**’ The two asterisks guide checked. The 500+ buses inspected All policies consist of four sec- earthquakes and also outlines the policy-holder’s you to a footnote where you learn that this year resulted in a remarkably low tions: Declarations, insuring duties in case of a loss or a claim the ‘other vehicles’ category includes out-of-service rate. Fewer than 9 per- agreements, exclusions and con- water damage.‘ under the policy, defines the terri- farm equipment, construction equip- cent of the coaches were put out of ditions. The declaration page tory of the policy and deals with ment, buses and other unspecified service and only 1.7 percent of the provides fundamental informa- may need extended coverage such subjects as subrogation, types of vehicles. drivers. That compares with 12 per- tion, like the named policy hold- endorsements for earthquakes other insurance and co-insur- Obviously, the Other Vehicles cat- cent of the buses and 9.5 percent of the er, who the insurance company is, and water damage. ance. egory in the report is worthless. drivers placed out of service last year. the limits, types of coverage and The liability section is where Lastly, you should review your NHTSA says that 467 people died last No one has a good explanation for the premiums. It also contains the insurance company agrees to policy every year with your broker year in ‘other vehicles.’ But there is no the improvement. Here are a couple of policy numbers, policy periods, pay for bodily injury or property and keep your policy in a safe way of knowing how many of those possibilities, however. With travel deductibles and the type of insur- damage of others. The injury deposit box as part of your com- individuals died because they were down, many older coaches have been ance plan, including additional must be caused by a covered pany’s permanent records because involved in a rollover bus accident, a parked. That factor, combined with insureds. occurrence and the occurrence many times neither the brokers rollover tractor accident, a rollover the record number of new coaches The next section generally must take place in the territory nor insurance companies retain front-loader accident or a rollover added by operators during the years contains the agreement of the covered by the policy. This is also old policies. accident in a dune buggy. leading up to the downturn, means the insurance company about what where you find the insurance Footnote: Practical Risk Management, Incidentally, the ‘other vehicles’ overall fleet is better and newer. subjects of insurance are covered company’s duty to defend a law- ARM Tech, Vol. 1 (1998) category had the biggest percentage Finally, during stressful times, most in the policy. There are two main suit. increase of any of the five tracked by people tend to focus their attention areas in this section, one relates The next important area is the Thomas D. DeMatteo also is an NHTSA. That fact alone argues for a better, and that frequently adds up to a to property and the other relates exclusions section. Under this adjunct professor of law at Hamline detailed breakdown of the numbers. re-emphasis of the fundamentals, like to third-party liability. section there will be two cate- University School of Law in St. Paul, Only then can the nature of the safety. Let’s hope that continues even There are two parts to a prop- gories: Property excluded and per- Minn. increase be pinpointed and addressed. as the industry bounces back.

How to contact us: ISSUE NO. 11 Jeff Polzien To send or report news, To e-mail advertisements Red Carpet Tours Letters to the Editor, articles: or photographs: Oklahoma City A PUBLICATION OF THE UNITED MOTORCOACH ASSOCIATION E-mail: [email protected] [email protected] Robert L. Quick Fax: (877) 510-5598 Staff Advisory Board Quick-Livick Inc. To subscribe or inquire Stauton, Va. or (877) 510-5602 about your subscription: Mail: 717 West Pierson #260 Editor & Publisher Alex Allen Todd Holland Tom Ready Call: Ellen Balm Victor Parra Amador Stage Lines Ramblin' Express Ready Bus Lines Phoenix, AZ 85013 (602) 488-8378 Sacramento, Calif. Colorado Springs LaCrescent, Minn. Call: (602) 242-7361 Managing Editor Senior Editor Bob Brisman Robert Hume Bill Rohrbaugh Travel Mates Trailways Bill Rohrbaugh's Charter Services To send subscription orders Danielle Staudt Bruce Sankey West Point Trailways To advertise or to mail or changes of address: Vails Gate, N.Y. Harrisonburg, Va. Manchester, Md. advertising-related materials: E-mail: [email protected] Government Editor Art Director David Brown Daryl G. Johnson Brian Scott Holiday Tours J & J Charters Escot Bus Lines Call: Johnny Steger Norman Littler G. Reid Helms (602) 980-0840 Fax: (877) 510-5602 Randlemann, N.C. Crosby, Texas Largo, Fla. E-mail: [email protected] or (877) 510-5598 Editorial Assistant Associate Editor Bob Foley Godfrey LeBron John Silvanie ABC Companies Paradise Trailways Suburban Charter Services Mail: Post Office Box 12903 Tara Sheehan Ellen Balm Mail: 16845 North 29th Ave. #759 Faribault, Minn. West Hempstead, N.Y. White Plains, N.Y. Tempe, AZ 85284 Phoenix, AZ 85053 Accountant Editorial Assistant Mitch Guralnick Joan Libby Alan Spachman Victoria Bus Cavalier Coach National Interstate Insurance Co John Giddens Rosa Funn-Bradby Boston, Mass. Boston, Mass. Richfield, Ohio

Sales Director Rick Hillard Warren Miller T. Ralph Young ©2003 by the United Motorcoach Association. Reproduction in whole or in Tri-State Tours Pacific Coach Bus Service Young Transportation part without written permission is prohibited. Johnny Steger Galena, Ill. San Francisco, Calif. Ashville, N.C. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — August 1, 2003 — 11 INDUSTRY NEWS Coach USA purchases get preliminary approval WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Transportation Surface Transportation Board has preliminarily approved the plan by a New York investment company to buy more than two-dozen Coach USA subsidiaries located in western and southern states. Final Surface Transportation Board approval depends on whether comments are filed opposing Kohlberg & Company’s purchase of the Coach USA operations. Opposing comments likely would trigger formal procedures and more critical consideration of the deal. In its application seeking What’s wrong with this picture? The 28 Coach USA companies being purchased by Kohlberg & Co. of New York will operate under the name CUSA. The photo approval of the deal, Kohlberg & above has been electronically manipulated to show how CUSA’s name might look on a former Coach USA bus. Co. revealed additional details about the proposed purchase that CUSA LLC, which will conduct • Bayou City Coaches, La. Transportation Board must adopted to reconsider the applica- was announced in June. the coach operations. • Ace Express, Colo. approve and authorize a transaction. Among other things, the 28 Such a dual structure is fairly • Browder Tours, Tenn. tion if finds the deal to be consis- If no opposing comments are Coach USA units will be operated common in the industry because • California Charters tent with the public interest, tak- filed, the board decision will take by a new company called CUSA. there are tax advantages to having • Desert Stage Lines, Calif. ing into consideration the effect effect automatically and will The simple name means the coaches centrally owned. The • El Expreso, Texas of the transaction on the adequa- become final. Board decisions and Coach USA buses acquired as part defunct consolidator VecTour used • Express Shuttle, Texas cy of transportation to the public, notices are available on its Web of the deal can easily have their such a structure, and one industry • Franciscan Lines, Calif. the total fixed charges that result, site: www.stb.dot.gov. livery converted to CUSA. leasing and finance executive said • Fun Time Tours, Texas and the interest of affected A copy of the Kohlberg/KBUS At the same time, however, there are a number of companies • Goodall’s Charter Bus Service, Calif. employees. application may be obtained from CUSA has applied for 12 operat- operating 10 to 20 coaches struc- • Grosvenor Bus Lines, Calif. In its filing with the Surface its representative: Stephen Flott, ing authorities from the Federal tured similarly. • Gulf Coast Transportation, Texas Transportation Board, Kolberg/ Flott & Co., P.O. Box 17655, Motor Carrier Safety Administra- What isn’t clear, however, is • Kerrville Bus Company, Texas KBUS said the transaction will not Arlington, VA 22216-7655. tion to accommodate the 28 oper- whether CUSA will be centrally Community Rentals Company reduce competitive options, Individuals wishing to oppose ating names under which it managed or have a diversified Sunset Tours & Travel adversely impact fixed charges, or the application must submit their intends to carry on the business. operational structure. Vaught Bus Leasing Co. adversely affect the interests of comments by Sept. 8, 2003. Send The current federal operating The filing does provide — for • K-T Contract Services, Nevada employees of the companies being an original and 10 copies of any authorities will be surrendered the first time — a complete list of • PCSTC Inc. (Pacific Coast Sightsee- acquired. comments, referring to STB once the deal is completed. all of the Coach USA companies ing), Calif. On the basis of the application, Docket No. MC-F-21000, to: Kohlberg has formed a new Kohlberg & Co. is acquiring. The • Powder River Transportation, Wyo. the board found the Coach USA- Surface Transportation Board, entity, KBUS Holdings LLC, to companies are: • Royal West Tours & Cruises, Calif. Kohlberg purchase was consistent 1925 K Street, NW, Washington, hold ownership of the Coach USA • All West Coachlines, Calif. • Stardust Tours-Memphis, Tenn. with the public interest and should DC 20423-0001. companies it is acquiring. • American Charters & Tours, Texas • Texas Bus Lines be authorized. In addition, send a copy of any Structurally, KBUS will be split • Americoach Tours, Tenn. • Travel Impressions If opposing comments are filed comments to the Kohlberg/KBUS into two units, a leasing company • Antelope Valley Bus, Calif. • Valen Transportation, Calif. by Sept. 8, however, the board representative: Stephen Flott, that will acquire and own all of the • Airport Bus of Bakersfield, Calif. • Worthen Van Service, Wyo. finding will be vacated and a pro- Flott & Co., P.O. Box 17655, buses operated by CUSA, and • Arrow Stage Lines, Arizona Under federal law, the Surface cedural schedule likely will be Arlington, VA 22216-7655.

the sale of a number of units over a North Central states, including USA businesses “that perform well and to eliminate unnecessary capi- Coach USA 12- to 18-month period. Since New York, New Jersey, Pennsyl- and have predictable revenue tal expenditure.” CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 then, it has announced the sale of vania, Illinois and Wisconsin. streams,” as well as reduce its char- The buyer of the Southeast Stagecoach Group, said: “We are its transit division, plus its New Together, these operations ter and leisure-related business. “In region is an investment group continuing to make excellent England, South Central and West accounted for about one-third of addition, we have successfully composed of a newly formed affili- progress on the restructuring of regions, along with taxi operations Coach USA annual revenue. retained key management and fur- ate of Lincolnshire Management Coach USA and this is a further in Kansas City, Long Island and Coach USA sales for the year ther reduced our corporate and Inc., Echo Bridge LLC and uniden- milestone in the delivery of our Indianapolis. A number of individ- ended April 30, were $972 million, regional overhead base,” the com- tified private investors. Sources North American strategy. ual operations have simply been down from $1.1 billion in fiscal pany said. said managers of the acquired com- “We are now pressing ahead shut down. 2002. Operating profit was $22.6 The Scottish company also said panies may be given an opportuni- with the remaining elements of our Together with the sale of the million, compared to $61.3 million that business conditions for Coach ty to invest in the new organiza- disposal program. I believe we are Southeast region, Coach USA has the year before, representing a drop USA remain challenging “and we tion. well on track to achieve our objec- realized more than $270 million in operating margin from 5.6 per- have not seen any major improve- Lincolnshire Management is a tive of a smaller, but nevertheless from the sale of the operations that cent in fiscal ’02, to 2.3 percent in ment in the trading (business) New York-based private equity substantial and more robust U.S. were sold. Next on Stagecoach’s fiscal ’03. The decline in margins environment. Nevertheless, Coach fund manager. Since the company business focused on our successful agenda is the disposal of its reflects the drop in company rev- USA remains cash generative and was founded in 1986, it has com- operations in the northeast and Canadian region, as well as the enue, increased insurance costs profitable. We have many strong pleted more than 45 acquisitions. north central regions,” Souter said. remaining taxi businesses. and a significant fall in taxicab performing businesses in the resid- Echo Bridge also is based in New Eight months ago, Souter When all is said and done, sales. ual Coach USA portfolio and we York and invests in middle market unveiled plans to completely what’s left of Coach USA will be Stagecoach says it intends to are continuing to redeploy existing companies in North America, the restructure Coach USA, including concentrated in Northeast and develop the remaining Coach assets to maximize asset utilization United Kingdom and Europe. 12 – August 1, 2003 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS INDUSTRY NEWS Henlys names CEO, other top managers at Blue Bird FORT VALLEY, Ga. — Henlys neering from the U.S. Naval Group PLC, the Scarborough, Academy in Annapolis, Md. England-based bus manufacturer Following his naval commitment, that owns Blue Bird Corporation, he attended Dartmouth College in has shuffled the top management Hanover, N.H., receiving an MBA at Blue Bird, including the naming before joining private industry. of a new chief executive. Initially, Bust worked in con- Jeffry D. Bust has been appoint- tract engineering and operations ed both president and CEO of Blue management with a supplier of Bird, replacing Richard Maddox defense equipment. At one point, Jeffry D. Bust, left, has been named President and CEO of Blue Bird who moves to vice president and he led a project to build a plant for Corporation, succeeding Richard Maddox who becomes head of Blue Bird’s general manager of Blue Bird’s school bus operation. Barry Hines, above left, has been named to head the the manufacture of high-tech mili- important school bus business unit. commercial bus division; Mike Beck, center, now heads quality and busi- tary systems. The appointment of Bust is the ness improvement, while Wayne Joseph, right, leads the coach and RV unit. He subsequently held a number latest in a series of management of operational and general man- changes at Blue Bird in recent Bust at Blue Bird includes: experience in bus engineering and Bird’s president and CEO in 1999, agement positions with industrial months, including the naming of • Wayne Joseph, vice president production, and his father, Frank, has been with the company for 29 equipment manufacturers before new top executives for the compa- and general manager of the coach was the long-time president of the years. He previously had been vice joining Grove Worldwide five ny’s commercial bus division, the & RV division. defunct Eagle Coach Corpora- president of sales and marketing. years ago as president of its cranes coach & RV unit, and quality and • Barry Hines, vice president tion/Eagle International during the “During the past four years, we division. He became chairman and business improvement program. and general manager of the com- 1970s and 1980s. In the early have made considerable progress at CEO of the Shady Grove, Pa.- “Jeff Bust brings to Blue Bird mercial bus division. 1980s, Barry Hines spent two years Blue Bird in new product develop- based company in 1999. the skills and experience needed to • Mike Beck, vice president of at Brownsville, Texas-based Eagle ment and in strengthening the In 2001, Bust helped guide lead the implementation of the quality and business improvement. before joining Blue Bird in 1985 as management team,” said Maddox. Grove through a Chapter 11 bank- ambitious growth and product Like Bust, Joseph is new to Blue a project engineer. “Because of this, we are now well ruptcy filing and financial restruc- range expansion plans we have in Bird but he is a bus industry manu- Earlier this year, Hines was pro- positioned to grow our business in turing. The reorganization plan place for the next few years,” facturing veteran. He joined Blue moted from engineering director to the school bus market, the transit reduced company debt from $584 Henlys CEO Allan Welsh said in Bird earlier this year from North vice president and general manag- and shuttle bus market, the com- million to $205 million. Annual commenting on the changes. American Bus Industries where he er of the Blue Bird unit that makes muter and coach market, and the interest expense plummeted from Bust is a newcomer to both Blue had been vice president and gener- commercial and transit buses. luxury motorhome market. $63 million to $17 million. Bird and the bus industry, but he is al manager of NABI’s U.S. manu- Beck joins Blue Bird from Ford “We are confident this new During Bust’s tenure, Grove no stranger to challenges. facturing operation in Anniston, Motor Co. where he was director business unit organization struc- introduced a number of new prod- Most recently he was chairman Ala. of quality and customer satisfac- ture will improve our focus and our ucts, including mobile hydraulic and CEO of Grove Worldwide, a During his eight years at NABI, tion. Prior to that job, he had been effectiveness toward our corporate cranes and aerial work platforms. leading producer of mobile and annual sales of the company’s stan- vice president of quality and field goals of growth, operational excel- Last year, Grove was acquired by truck-mounted hydraulic cranes dard and low-floor heavy-duty operations at Otis Elevator. Earlier lence, and market leadership. At another crane manufacturer, The and lifts. During his five years at transit buses went from $15.3 mil- in his career, he held quality posi- this stage, we believe Jeff Bust has Manitowoc Co., of Manitowoc, Grove, Bust shepherded the com- lion in 1994 to more than $351 tions at Toyota North America the appropriate skills and experi- Wis., in a $270 million deal pany through Chapter 11 bank- million last year. and General Motors, where he ences to lead the overall company involving cash and stock. ruptcy and its acquisition last year Prior to NABI, Joseph was spent several years working along during this robust period of growth Blue Bird is nearing completion by The Manitowoc Co., the lead- employed for 20 years by the old side legendary quality management and operational improvement.” of a three-year-plus program to ing manufacturer of lattice-boom Flxible Corporation, where he was philosopher and guru Dr. W. overhaul its product line, launch- crawler cranes and tower cranes. materials manager before spending Edwards Deming. Annapolis grad ing a new motorcoach and a hand- nearly 10 years as plant manager. Bust began his professional ful of commercial, transit and shut- Experienced team Hines also has bus manufactur- Blue Bird veteran career in the U.S. Navy after get- tle buses. Blue Bird employs nearly The new team working with ing in his blood. He has 20 years Maddox, who became Blue ting a degree in mechanical engi- 3,000 people in four facilities.

ing service. Similar to Gray Line, ed initiative has been a hit. James River the service uses a 14-passenger On the operational side, Story Motorcoach Network charter and tour operators with CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 Champion cutaway bus and is mar- has worked to blend the support suppliers from attractions, had town cars and shuttles.” With keted through local promotional services of the Carey operation and CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 hotels, destination marketing the addition of Carey, James River organizations and others. “It’s not a those of James River. Two areas of critical for many motorcoach organizations and industry ven- now has those vehicles. In fact, it huge volume of business, but it did focus have been maintenance and operators as the country seeks dors, such as manufacturers,” has nearly 40 vans, limousines, better than expected,” says Story. safety. For instance, “our safety to return to some level of nor- says Kirchner. The meeting is sedans and cutaway buses. Other expanding and new serv- director functions for the whole malcy. … As always, those who limited to 100 suppliers. The corporate market, says ices at James River include: organization.” survive and prosper will be In addition to its directory, Story, wants and expects better • Contract services, including Story is a big proponent of those operators who serve the the National Motorcoach service, facilities and infrastructure business and university-related benchmarking. James River is a needs of their customers most Network also operates an — all things the company is better shuttles. shareholder in International effectively.” Internet-based National Reser- prepared to deliver. • Relocation services, and Motorcoach Network, allowing From Aug. 21-24, National vation Center at www.motor- Increased emphasis on the cor- working with meeting and plan- Story to benchmark against peer Motorcoach Network will have coach.com. The Web site han- porate market also meets a key cri- ning services. coach operators, and he has its 20th anniversary meeting in dles motorcoach charter re- terion of James River’s new strate- • The convention market. extended that exercise to a peer Branson, Mo., the Ozark quests. gy: It’s not as sensitive to price. “We’re adding on piece by group in the Carey organization. Mountain community that has Information about the net- “You don’t get beat up on price so piece,” says Story. “None of these The new, broader approach at been a top motorcoach destina- work and the 2003 Branson bad,” is the way Story puts it. are a home run but a bunch of base James River has been transforma- tion for more than a decade. meeting is available by calling One of the new products James hits.” tive, says Story. ”We’re a service “The Network Invitational (888) 733-5287, or by e-mail- River developed is a local sightsee- Still, not every new or expand- company, not just a bus company.” brings together motorcoach ing [email protected]. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — August 1, 2003 — 13 INDUSTRY NEWS

Ke BBucksporucksport Heavily used bridge ll ey Coach parking expanded R 15 d. F in Maine is closed erry Rd. 174 in Chicago; free parking! to commercial vehicles • Prospectrospect FerryFerry Bridge closed •Veronaerona CHICAGO — As part of its new lot makes coordinating a PROSPECT, Maine — A heavily used bridge near to vehicles 1 ongoing effort to better serve the motorcoach trip to Chicago that Maine’s central coast has been closed to buses and weighing coach industry, Chicago has much easier because it is safe, other heavy vehicles, forcing them to take a 40-mile 24,000 pounds expanded motorcoach parking accessible and affordable.”

or more. . r detour. D near The Loop at McCormick Overnight coach parking in the e d i The 72-year-old Waldo-Hancock Bridge spans the S Place, the nation’s largest conven- McCormick Place lot is $20. t s a Bucksport Penobscot River on Routes 1 and 3, between Prospect • E tion center. The lot is fenced, However, if a hotel lead is issued and Verona. Veeronarona patrolled and available 24 hours and confirmed through the PParkark Vehicles weighing 12 tons or more have been Maine daily. Chicago Convention and Tourism banned from the bridge while engineers and consult- Parking in the lot also can be Bureau, the bureau will rebate the ants consider short-term alternatives that might make free by using an incentive program. parking costs with the receipt for it passable again for heavy vehicles. The outlook for a River in Bangor, more than 20 one-way miles away. “The motorcoach industry is each night the hotel stay coincides quick solution seems remote. The bridge was being renovated when engineers extremely important to Chicago, with the parking date. Upwards of 10,000 vehicles cross the bridge daily decided its support cables might be weaker than previ- so we are always trying to improve The incentive is in addition to and that number can grow to 15,000 during the sum- ously thought. Based on their recommendations, offi- and expand our offerings,” said the $20 in American Express gift mer vacation season. It’s estimated that as many as 800 cials instituted the ban on heavy vehicles. The deck is Brad Lewis, vice president of checks for the driver and for the heavy trucks and buses were using the bridge daily. supported by heavy cables composed of 1,369 wire tourism at the Chicago Conven- manager with a hotel lead con- Most are driving north and crossing the Penobscot strands. Supplemental cables are being considered. tion and Tourism Bureau. “This firmed through the bureau. The gift checks can be used to cover transportation costs, meals or other expenses. Eastern Bus fall meeting is next month in Annapolis The lot is just south of FAIRFAX, Va. — The regular than 100 bus companies are repre- ence attendees will visit table session. McCormick Place in the Mc- fall meeting of the Eastern Bus sented by the 200 plus members WMATA’s sprawling Bladensburg The conference will be Sept. Cormick Place Truck Marshalling Maintenance Management Con- who attend the meetings. The Overhaul Shop and its new train- 29-30 at the Radisson Hotel in Yard at Lake Shore Drive and 31st ference will be late next month in roundtable discussions organized ing center. The Bladensburg facil- Annapolis. The hotel is roughly Street, and is available daily except Annapolis, Md. by Eastern Bus provide members ity was recently converted to serv- 25 miles south of the Baltimore when very large trade shows are The Eastern Bus Maintenance with valuable information and ice CNG-powered buses in a $24 Washington International going on. For information on avail- Management Conference is an technical support. million renovation project. Airport. ability, call (312) 808-3165. organization of bus maintenance The session this year features a Activities also include a ven- For information, e-mail LTBus For more information, contact managers who gather twice a year day-long tour of facilities operated dor trade show, members/suppliers [email protected] or Knewman@ the bureau at (312) 567-8571, or e- in closed-door meetings to discuss by the Washington Metropolitan reception dinner, and the impor- wmata.com, or go to www.ebmmc. mail Joleen Domaracki at jdo- key maintenance issues. More Area Transit Authority. Confer- tant Question and Answer round- org. [email protected].

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U www.realwheels.com 16845 North 29th Avenue #759, Phoenix, AZ 85053 Fax toll-free to: (877) 510-5602; if busy, (877) 510-5598 RealWheels Cover Co., Inc. • 847-662-7722 • Fax 847-662-7744 Questions: [email protected] . . . or call (602) 488-8378. Made In The U.S.A. • Best Guarantee In The Industry S 14 – August 1, 2003 — BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS ClassifiedClassified AdvertisingAdvertisingAdvertising MUST SELL VERY VERY Florida Keys Bus Charter EQUIPMENT! CLEAN CLEAN Prices Slashed! Business Prevost LeMirage XLs MCI COACHES All in Very Good Condition For Sale 1990 $53,000 FOR SALE Year-round business. 1992 $78,000* Protect your Passengers (1) 1989 102A3 Series 50, Auto Good customer list. 1992 $84,000** Pro-Tex-Hair is a specially woven synthetic 1994 $95,000 Attention Coaches In business since '88. that adheres to any style of headrest, helping Headed to northern Virginia, (2) 1988 102C3 8V-92, Auto reduce maintenance cost of the headrest and 1997 $169,000 Price includes Washington, D.C. Currently in Service. protecting your passengers. Pro-Tex-Hair 1998 $175,000 2 MCI 102s. makes for more sanitary conditions from any * Rebuilt engine contact with dandruff, hair grease or other ** Rebuilt engine; new upholstery; Hot pizza is awaiting at these Virginia loca- Great Weekend Overflow Coaches $99,000 scalpel concerns allowing your passengers a new EMC tions: Culpeper (south side of Skyline Drive in RAMBLIN EXPRESS Fax letter of interest to: more enjoyable ride. When arriving at your des- Aluminum wheels, Shenandoah Nat'l Park); Warrenton (north tination, simply dispose of Pro-Tek-Hair when all automatics,Lav, PA/VCR, aux side of Skyline Drive in Shenandoah Nat'l Michael Park); Front Royal (on West 14th St. in town); Call Gary Agnes at passengers depart. A/C (except 1994), with tires. (305) 743-2018 For more information contact Manassas (2 locations at Bull Run National (800) 772-6254 x 1271 PRO-TEK-HAIR at 831-768-0252 Make Offer!! Battlefield Park). All locations are bus accessi- or [email protected] ble. All are 25-60 miles from Washington D.C. Fax: (831) 768-1359 (407) 425-9519 tourist attractions. All have buffet lunch and will accommodate large parties. Call ahead to central reservation line Classified Advertising COACH FOR SALE (571) 220-1516. Ask for Mike Marney. ORDER FORM FOR SALE MCI Coaches Bus & Motorcoach NEWS is published on the 1st and 15th of the month. First-rate MC-8 Excellent condition, Ad deadlines are one week prior to publication. charter/tour coaches, Display 1977 MC-8, 8V-71 with less 47-pax, lav, PA, VCRs. Classified Please print or type your advertising copy. than 30,000 miles on engine, • 1992 102C3 Auto Advertisements If you prefer, print or type your ad on a separate sheet and attach to this straight shift, auxiliary air, Detroit Diesel form. All Classified Advertising must be accompanied by payment before 42-pax with built-in bar. • 1993 102C3 Auto 1 column x 2” minimum size. insertion. VISA, MasterCard and American Express cards are accepted. Detroit Diesel Frequency discounts available. Coach is in service. • 1994 102C3 CLASSIFIED: Type of ad you prefer: __Display__Line Must be seen to appreciate. Cummins, 7 speed $20 per column inch. Samples and ad rates on reverse side. Asking $13,000. • 1995 102D3 RECRUITMENT: Number of issues you would like this ad to appear in: 1 2 3 4 5 6 More? Cats (5), 7-speed $30 per column inch. Happy Travelers Tours Name Wilson, North Carolina Call Rick or Mike at Line Classified Advertisements Person Authorizing Advertisement - Please Print (800) 779-4869 or Set in 6 pt. Type, in paragraph (252) 237-9327 e-mail rhillard@tristatetravel. Company form only, with the first four or (252) 243-6255 com. Fax inquiries to words in capital letters. Address Fax: (252) 243-7560 CLASSIFIED: $20 for the first 6 (815) 777-8128 lines per insert. $15 each addi- City State Zip tional line per insert. Payment Signature Wanted: Referrals Prepayment required for all ad Don't send away customers who want to lease a conversion coach! Refer them to placements unless credit has been Credit Card Information Executive Motor Coach. We'll treat them right and we'll send you $$$ to show our established. MasterCard, Visa, thanks. Our coaches seat up to 21 and have lounge seating, a galley kitchen, a American Express accepted. Card No. restroom, TV and many other amenities. Mid- to long-term leasing is our specialty. Deadlines Executive Motor Coach (614) 733-0006 Seven days prior to publication Expiration Date dates of 1st and 15th of the www.executive-motor-coach.com month. Name on Card Hours MCIs FOR SALE Coaches for Sale Call Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. Fax or Mail this form to Bus & Motorcoach NEWS to 4:30 p.m. MST. ONE OWNER MC-9s / 102 Look Sales Representative Toll-free fax: (877) 510-5598 (2) 1993 MCI 102 C3 1979-82 MC-9s. Johnny Steger Rebuilt w/102 look. VCRs. Mail to: 16845 North 29th Avenue # 759, Phoenix, AZ 85053 L10-330 Cummins, Phone: (602) 980-0840 Allison Autos, Some w/auxiliary A/C; w/tires. Fax Toll-Free: (877) 510-5598 47-passenger, w/restroom, Price: $19,500 Make checks payable to: Bus & Motorcoach NEWS E-mail: [email protected] loaded, no rust. Quick’s Bus Co. Bus & Motorcoach News Questions? Call Johnny: (602) 980-0840 Call Mark at Staunton, Va. 16845 North 29th Ave. #759 Email: [email protected] (540) 886-6297 Phoenix, AZ 85053 972/623-1100, ext. 213 E-mail: [email protected]. BUS & MOTORCOACH NEWS — August 1, 2003 — 15 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

AUGUST 2003 Transportation Authority Bus www.motorbussociety.org, or e-mail 17-22 Busworld, Kortrijk, Belgium. NOVEMBER 2003 5-6 Tennessee Motor Coach Assn.: Roadeo, Atlantic City Transportation Jerry Squier, vice president conven- Info: Go to www.busworld.org or 1-5 California Bus Assn.: Convention annual Pig Pick’n. Featured events: Center, Atlantic City. Info: (609) 344- tions, at [email protected]. [email protected]. & Trade Show, Doral Palm Springs Maintenance & Parts Marketplace 4149. Resort, Cathedral City, Calif. Info: and Maintenance Seminar. 12-16 American Public Transit 26-28 BusCon 2003, Las Vegas. (800) 664-2877 or go to Radisson-Opryland, Nashville, Tenn. 11-12 The Motorcoach Bus Society: Association: Annual Meeting, Salt Info: (310) 533-2556 or e-mail www.cbabus.com. Info: (423) 348-1385. Annual Convention, Boston, Mass. Lake City, Utah. Info: (202) 496- [email protected]. Info: Go to 4800, or go to www.apta.com. 9-12 Pennsylvania Public Transportation Assn.: Summer Meeting and Roadeo, Erie, Pa. Info: (717) 234-7176 or go to www.ppta.net.

10-12 Alabama Motorcoach Assn.: Annual Meeting & Marketplace, Wynfrey Hotel, Birmingham, Ala. Info: (336) 495-4970.

11-17 International Motorcoach Group Inc.: Strategic Alliance Meeting, Keystone Resort & Conference Center, Keystone, Colo. Info: (913) 906-0111 or go to www.imgcoach.com.

17-20 South Carolina Motorcoach Assn.: Annual Meeting & Marketplace, Westin Resort, Savannah, Ga. Info: (336) 495-4970.

21-24 National Motorcoach Network: 20th anniversary Network Marketing Seminar & Invitational 100, Radisson Hotel, Branson, Mo. Info: (888) 733-5287 or go to www.motorcoach.com.

22-24 Greyhound Birthplace Bus Bash 2003, Hibbing, Minn. Info will be available at www.bus-mag.com, click on Bus Bash link, or call (815) 946-2341.

SEPTEMBER 2003 5-9 Virginia Motorcoach Assn.: Annual Convention, Dover Sheraton, Dover, Del. Info: (434) 376-1150, or go to www.vamotorcoach.com.

8-9 Bus Industry Safety Council fall J4500 meeting, Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel, Springfield, Mass. Info: Call the American Bus Association at (800) 283-2877, or go to www.bus.org.

10 California Bus Assn: General ur name says it all. From the factory floor to the sales When you select an MCI model for your fleet, your investment Membership Meeting, LTBA, Calif. Oshowroom, engineers to field service representatives, brings unmatched experience, integrity and a proven track Info: (800) 664-2877 or go to www.cbabus.com. Motor Coach Industries is all about building North America’s record of excellence. From design and production to sales, best motor coaches. Not only do we make more motor coaches service, parts and maintenance, MCI continues to make its 14-16 Kansas Public Transit Assn.: than anyone, we offer more customer service, more parts and name on North America’s roads. Annual Conference and Expo, Overland Park, Kan. Info: (913) 491- more trained technicians. 9094 or go to www.ktransit.com. Now celebrating 70 years of serving the motor coach industry. 29-30 Eastern Bus Maintenance Management Conference fall meet- It is all we do. ing, Radisson Hotel, Annapolis, Md. MOTOR COACH Info: Go to www.ebmmc.org. www.mcicoach.com INDUSTRIES OCTOBER 2003 1-800-RIDE MCI (1-800-743-3624) We are America’s coach. 1 The 13th Annual South Jersey