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Merry Christmas/ Happy New Year! December 15, 2006

WHAT’S GOING ON IN THE BUS INDUSTRY MOTORCOACH EXPO 2007 Talks on charter rules end with no agreement; FTA will propose rules WASHINGTON — A spirited, Administration. eight-month effort by the motor- FTA lawyers began rewriting coach and public transit industries the rules immediately and could to rewrite the 20-year-old federal have them ready for the lengthy charter service regulations has end- adoption process as early as next ed as expected — in a stalemate. month, said the FTA’s chief coun- Representatives of the two sel, David Horner, who will direct often-feuding industries wrapped the drafting process. up a series of monthly two-day He said the new rules could be “negotiated rulemaking sessions” in place in anywhere from 3 this month without settling a num- months to 14 months, depending ber of key differences that federal on the length of several required regulators who brought them administrative steps and the together had hoped would be amount of public comment the The Sunliner Coach from Stallion Bus Industries has a Cummins engine, Allison transmission and Thermo King A/C. decided. proposed rules generate after they Now, the issues that have long are published. Chinese buses to be unveiled at Expo split the private and public carriers Under the rulemaking process, over the type of charter work that provisions that were endorsed by Variety of models public transit agencies should be both sides during the negotiation allowed to do will be settled by sessions will be written into the to be offered for attorneys at the Federal Transit CONTINUED ON PAGE 10 þ U.S. coach market NEW ORLEANS — When Investment group purchasing attendees at Motorcoach Expo 2007 walk onto the show floor next industry giant Coach America month, they’ll find vehicles that have never before been seen at an NEW YORK — Three years expected to close early next year, Expo and vehicles they’ve proba- after it was formed, Coach Amer- were not disclosed. The transac- bly never encountered — buses ica is being sold by one New York tion is subject to approval by the and motorcoaches made in China. investment firm to another New U.S. Surface Transportation Board, Two new companies that plan York investment group. which already has given the deal to import Chinese buses and sell The Express Bus from Stallion is a Chinese-built shuttle. Fenway Partners of New York its pro-forma preliminary OK. them in the U.S. will have their City, which describes itself as a Final approval is likely, pending Americanized Chinese-built buses buses made in China can find a headed by individuals with exten- “leading middle market private any protests. for eyeing, driving and tire kicking. market in the U.S. sive experience in the U.S. bus equity firm,” announced it will Craig Lentzsch, CEO of Coach During the past decade, as the In fact, a slew of Chinese buses industry. These two companies are U.S. appetite for all things Chinese are headed for North America, the ones that will be exhibiting at acquire Coach America from America, said the change in own- has expanded, imports of Chinese- ranging from 45- and 40-foot mo- Motorcoach Expo. Kohlberg & Co. of Mt Kisco, N.Y. ership will help the company grow made clothing, DVDs, furniture, torcoaches, to 35-foot coach-like The third company is a U.S. Coach America is the largest and develop. microwaves, shoes, toys and tens buses, to 25-30 passenger shuttles, manufacturer of recreational vehi- tour and charter bus operator in “We are pleased to join with of thousands of other products to low-floor transits. cles that is diversifying into the North America and the second- Fenway Partners to further have mushroomed from $50 bil- At least three different compa- seated-bus market. It is not making largest motorcoach services pro- enhance and accelerate Coach lion annually to an expected $275 nies are planning to distribute the trip to New Orleans, however. vider in the U.S., after Coach USA. America’s trajectory of opera- billion this year. Chinese-made or -designed buses, Obviously, the three companies Its 31 bus subsidiaries operate in tional and financial success. As we Now, we’re about to find out if with two of the import groups CONTINUED ON PAGE 30 þ 38 states and produced revenues of work with Fenway to take advan- $330 million last year. tage of strategic opportunities we

Expo Drives into New Orleans/See Special Section Terms of the deal, which is CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 þ A

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MIDWEST NORTHEAST SOUTHEAST SOUTHWEST WESTERN 800-222-2875 800-222-2873 800-222-2871 800-222-2877 800-322-2877 Bus & Motorcoach NEWS INDUSTRY NEWS December 15, 2006 3 New service takes aim at brokers Wheelchair lift grants SEATTLE — Just over a year of Google, Yahoo and MSN,” said have definitely increased. I’ve ago, Charter Bus America launched Peterson. paid for at least a year’s worth of go to 91 bus operators an online reservation system for “We know customers and this advertising just in the first WASHINGTON — Ninety- requested by line-run companies, the motorcoach industry. motorcoach operators prefer to month,” said Dan O’Meara, presi- one motorcoach companies from and $17.8 million sought by other Now, the company is back work with each other directly dent of Priority One. across the U.S. have been awarded types of operators. with a new service designed to rather than through a middleman,” Charter Bus America entered grants to help pay for installing The FTA said its selections help charter bus companies com- he continued. “We’re helping to the coach industry last year when wheelchair lifts in their buses or to were based on three factors — pete more effectively with bus fix it.” it launched the industry’s first buy new coaches with lifts. each applicant’s responsiveness to brokers on the Internet. Priority One Transportation, a Web site that provides automated The grants, totaling $7.4 mil- criteria laid out in the law that cre- Essentially, the new marketing Dallas-based motorcoach opera- charter bus quotes to customers lion, were awarded under the U.S. ated the program, fleet size, and service gets charter bus compa- online in seconds, much like Department of Transportation level of funding received in previ- nies on the first page when a ‘We want to help motor- Expedia and Orbitz do for airline, Over-the-Road Bus Accessibility ous years. potential customer uses a major hotel and car reservations. (See Program, which has been around Because demand for the for seven years. money exceeded supply, most suc- Internet search engine. coach companies grow Dec. 15, 2005 Bus & Motorcoach Although the federal govern- cessful applicants received far less The goal, says Charter Bus News.) their business through ment is nearly three months into funding than requested, and those America CEO Dylan Peterson, is Peterson said his new service fiscal 2007, the latest wheelchair applicants “with weaker applica- to help bus companies win new better marketing.’ complements, rather than con- lift grants are for fiscal 2006. tions were not selected for fund- business from customers who flicts with, his reservation system. The Federal Transit Adminis- ing,” the FTA said. shop via the Internet, plus help “We want to help motorcoach tration, which administers the pro- The grant winners will add them bypass bus brokers. tor and one of the first companies companies grow their business gram, provided no explanation for lifts to 94 new vehicles, retrofit “We are helping bus compa- to sign up with the service, is now through better marketing. Some the tardiness of its announcement lifts on 118 vehicles, and use nies beat the brokers,” said Peter- found on the first page of major customers appreciate the conven- of the FY ’06 grants. $70,765 for training. son. search engines when customers ience of shopping through our Of the $7.4 million awarded, Each company that applied “These days, customers start search using the popular term: automated system, while others $5.6 million went to intercity bus will receive a letter that explains shopping by going to the Internet, “Dallas charter bus.” prefer to go direct to the bus com- lines and $1.8 million went to how the FTA made its funding but all they find on the search A report provided by Charter panies. other types of operators, including decisions. engines are a bunch of bus bro- Bus America shows that Internet “The point is, our services commuter, charter and tour Questions about the grants kers instead of actual motorcoach links connecting customers with help move the industry forward in providers. Nearly 38 percent of the should be directed to the FTA companies. Priority One Transportation was a healthy and competitive way,” money — $2.8 million — went to regional administrator in the area We think that is a problem and viewed 646 times in September said Peterson. Greyhound Lines. where the operator is located. Go A total of 127 operators sub- to www.fta.dot.gov for a list of we’re helping to fix it by placing alone. For more information, go to mitted applications, seeking $35.1 FTA regional offices. For general busPrOwndPrtsB&MC companies on 10/3/06the first pages 1:16 PM “ThePage phone1 calls and inquiries www.CharterBusAmerica.com. million, with $17.3 million CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 þ

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NTSB wants to ban driver cell phone use Using non-CDL WASHINGTON — The Na- story was evidence showing he did transport the passenger safely and of driver distractions, not just cell drivers to move tional Transportation Safety not apply the brakes before hitting not allow the vehicle operator to phones. Board wants federal and state reg- the bridge. take unnecessary risks,” the board The board also suggested that trucks costs UPS ulators to forbid motorcoach and The safety board bemoaned said in its report. “Consequently, enforcement would be a problem, WASHINGTON — Some- school bus drivers from using cell the fact that comprehensive data these drivers have a special obliga- particularly for hands-free cell times even the biggest need to be phones while driving, except in correlating bus accidents and cell- tion to provide the safest driving phones since it would be difficult emergencies. phone use does not exist, but environment possible for the pas- for law enforcement to identify reminded that over-the-road vehi- The recommendation is con- members said the incident was so sengers in their care.” when a driver is actually talking on cles can’t be driven by drivers who tained in an NTSB report on a troubling they believe that a ban The Board recommended that the phone. don’t have a CDL when the public nonfatal bus accident on the for bus drivers is necessary. the Federal Motor Carrier Safety One key recommendation was is around. George Washington Memorial “Professional drivers who have Administration, all 50 states and that bus associations — the United UPS, the trucking and delivery Parkway in Alexandria, Va., in dozens of passengers’ lives en- the District of Columbia prohibit Motorcoach Association, the giant, got slapped with a Federal November 2004. trusted to them should devote their CDL holders with a passenger car- American Bus Association and Motor Carrier Safety Administra- The coach that crashed, operat- full attention to their task,” said rying or school bus endorsement others — urge their members to tion fine for using drivers without ed by Eyre Bus Service of Glen- NTSB Chairman Mark V. from using cell phones while driv- institute policies that restrict cell commercial driver’s licenses to move elg, Md., was carrying Catholic Rosenker. ing those vehicles, except in emer- phone use by drivers. trucks in a small town terminal. school students from Massachu- “What we saw in this accident gencies. One bus association, the Na- If the area were the trucks were setts when it slammed into a low, is appalling and could have result- The NTSB staff wanted a tional School Transportation Asso- being moved hadn’t been open to stone overpass over the parkway, ed in great tragedy.” stronger recommendation. It ciation, announced it would con- the public, UPS would have been destroying the roof and injuring 11 The NTSB concluded that “the pushed for recommending that the sider the NTSB recommendation. in the clear. teenagers on a class trip. driver’s cognitive distraction re- Federal Motor Carrier Safety The NSTA said its board of direc- The amount of the fine, The driver was talking on a sulting from his use of a hands- Administration ban the use of cell tors would look at the issue at its $4,080, barely amounts to a slap hands-free cell phone at the time free cell phone caused the acci- phones by any CDL holder. January meeting in Tucson, Ariz. on the wrist for the $43-billion, of the accident, and he told investi- dent.” The board took a more moder- According to the Insurance gators he did not see the signs on But the low clearance of the ate approach, however, saying that Institute for Highway Safety and Atlanta-based company. Still, it the parkway that alert motorists to overpass, which does not meet cur- distractions of any kind are a prob- the Highway Loss Data Institute, represents a ding on its record. the height of the overpass. The rent standards, also contributed to lem and banning cell phones might California, Connecticut, New York, In its response to the charges, signs warn that the clearance is 10 the accident, the NTSB said. be any easier answer but not neces- New Jersey and the District of Co- UPS denied the four violations for feet, 2 inches for the right lane, in “Payment for transportation sarily a solution to everything that lumbia currently ban all drivers, which it was cited. which he was driving. The left lane services creates an implicit con- distracts drivers. not just bus drivers, from driving The fine came after FMCSA has a 13-foot, 4-inch clearance. tract between the passenger and The board directed the NTSB while talking on a hand-held cellu- inspectors got a tip three years ago Consistent with the driver’s the carrier that the carrier will staff to look into the broader issue lar phone. from UPS drivers who told them the company was using non-CDL drivers to move vehicles around on company lots, a common practice in both the bus and trucking industries. The company also was cited for the two workers not having submitted to pre-employment drug testing. The terminal where inspectors found two violations is in Owa- tonna, Minn. The facility includes not only the industrial area where the drivers were ferrying the trucks but also a building where UPS customers can drop off shipments. “It was an issue of moving the trucks, jockeying them around if you will, in an area that also had public access,” said FMCSA spokes- man Ian Grossman said. “If there’s no public access to the area, it’s a totally different story.” In statements to FMCSA inves- tigators, one of two UPS drivers in question said he had wanted to get a CDL but was thwarted by UPS because he would have gotten higher union pay if he got the license. Ken Presley, vice president of industry relations at the United Motorcoach Association, said coach operators frequently ask him about the issue. Bus & Motorcoach NEWS THE DOCKET December 15, 2006 5 Revised rules get closer for new bus, truck operators WASHINGTON — The White safety oversight system for motor are corrected before the new For a ton of background on the hours-of-service compliance. House Office of Management and carriers based outside North entrant is granted permanent reg- rulemaking, visit http://dms.dot. In September, the White House Budget has signed off on pro- America. istration. gov/search and search Docket No. cleared a final rule regarding sup- posed regulations that would raise The goal of the new-entrant All new entrants would contin- 11061. porting documents for drivers’ the standard of compliance for regulations is to improve the ue to receive educational informa- The White House has one logs. But the FMCSA has delayed passing a new-entrant safety audit. FMCSA ability to identify at risk tion on how to comply with the other FMCSA proposal under con- publishing the rule, however, say- The approval will allow the new-entrant bus and truck compa- safety regulations and be given an sideration that could impact the ing it needs time to train field per- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Ad- nies, and assure deficiencies in opportunity to correct any defi- bus and motorcoach industry: use sonnel to ensure clarity and uni- ministration to publish a notice of basic safety management controls ciencies found. of electronic onboard recorders for form enforcement nationwide. proposed rulemaking on new- entrant audits in the near future. The FMCSA is pursuing the new-entrant rulemaking because of a federal appeals court ruling of a year ago that said the agency’s regulations for entry-level driver training are inadequate, and the FMCSA’s own experience with the current program, which is now 1 2 /2 years old. In addition to tighter standards and clarification of existing rules, the FMCSA will propose a sepa- rate application procedure and Fees suggested for new system WASHINGTON — The board setting up the program that will replace the Single State Registra- tion System has approved a fee structure that is not favorable to a large number of bus and motorcoach operators. Meeting by conference call last month, the board of the Unified Carrier Registration Agreement, as the new program is called, approved a fee structure with six brackets. As noted in the Dec. 1 issue of Bus & Motorcoach News, the fee brackets for the UCRA are gradu- ated according to the number of buses or trucks operated by com- YOU GET THEM ON THE BUS. WE’LL TAKE IT FROM THERE. panies subject to the system. The brackets and proposed fees are: 0-1 vehicle, $75 a year; 2- 5 vehicles, $145; 6-20 vehicles, $425; 21-100 vehicles, $1,470; 101-1,000 vehicles, $7,000, and more than 1,000 vehicles, $37,500. Once the board submits its recommendation to the U.S. De- Series 60® partment of Transportation, the agency has 90 days under the law For decades Detroit Diesel engines have provided the reliable, efficient performance you to set them for next year. depend on. After millions of miles of successful testing, our EPA ‘07 engines are ready to Victor Parra, president and CEO of the United Motorcoach support you. We are committed to the things you need to deliver passengers on time, like Association and a member of an reliability, service and parts availability. Because when we do our part, you can focus on other industry advisory committee to things – like keeping your coaches filled with people. Learn more at www.detroitdiesel.com. the UCRA plan, said he was “quite concerned” about the fee for the 21-100 bracket “since a very large portion of our industry falls into that group. “I’ve offered as a counter an additional bracket of 21-50 with a fee of $850. Unfortunately,” said Parra, “I’m told that only six cat- egories are allowed. But I’m not www.detroitdiesel.com Specifications are subject to change without notice. Detroit Diesel and the spinning arrows design are registered trademarks of Detroit Diesel. © 2006, Freightliner LLC. All rights reserved. Detroit Diesel is a member of the Freightliner Group. Freightliner LLC is a DaimlerChrysler company. giving up on this.” 6 December 15, 2006 THE DOCKET Bus & Motorcoach NEWS Wichita Transit sets charter hearing Charter operators line up WICHITA, Kan. — Wichita when willing-and-able private bus show the ability to actually provide Transit has scheduled a public operators provide charter service. these services,” the transit agency to provide ‘super’ service hearing Dec. 21, to get input from The public hearing will be at said in its notice. MIAMI — Scores of motor- “As you are aware, regulations private bus operators and the gen- 10 a.m. Dec. 21 in the Wichita “If no input is received by pri- coach operators have apparently re- prohibit transit recipients of feder- eral public on a variety of special Transit Operations Center at 777 vate charter operators who are sponded to the revised charter service al funds to provide charter service community events that require E. Waterman. willing and able to provide charter notice issued last month in connec- if there is at least one private oper- charter bus service. Among the “special events” service as mentioned above, Wich- tion with next year’s Super Bowl. ator willing and able to provide The notice for the public hear- mentioned in the notice requiring ita Transit shall provide said trol- The United Motorcoach Asso- the charter service,” wrote UMA ing issued by the transit agency ap- charter service are air shows, ley charter services and special ciation reports it has heard from Vice President Ken Presley. pears to violate Federal Transit Ad- Wichita State University games, a event public transportation servic- numerous operators that are “will- “We fully anticipate Miami- ministration charter service regula- “nationwide” golf tournament, and es using equipment and facilities ing and able” to provide trans- Dade Transit will notify Gameday tions because it implies that some River Festival events. funded under the FTA act.” portation for the game, which will Management (the transportation of the services must be provided “Private operators (attending Written comments and inqui- be Feb. 4 in Miami. (See Dec. 1 coordinator for the Super Bowl) of by “fully-accessible trolley” buses. the hearing) should not only ries should be directed to: Jay Ban- Bus & Motorcoach News.) your complete withdrawal of offer- FTA rules prohibit transit express the willingness to do these asiak, General Manager, Wichita In a letter, UMA reminded ing charter service, affording them agencies from specifying the type public services with fully accessi- Transit, 777 E. Waterman, Wichita, Miami-Dade Transit that private ample time to fully implement the of equipment that must be used ble vehicles, but they should also KS 67202. Phone: (316) 265-7221. operators must get first crack at services of the private operators in any charter work offered in con- the region,” Presley wrote. nection with the Super Bowl, and it He added that UMA “will put the transit system on notice that have observers on site to assure it intends to monitor compliance. complete compliance.” Transits seek charter firms The following public transit line: Dec. 27, 2006. Write to: Diana providers have informed the United Wallace, Executive Director, Appa- Motorcoach Association of their lachian Agency for Senior Citi- intent to provide charter bus serv- zens, P.O. Box 765, Cedar Bluff, ice unless willing and able private VA 24609. Phone: (276) 964-4915. operators offer service. UMA Santa Clarita Valley, Calif. urges operators to take the time to Deadline: Jan. 5, 2007. Write to: respond to these notices: Jeff O’Keefe, Transit Manager, Corvallis, Ore. Deadline: Dec. City of Santa Clarita, 28250 Con- 22, 2006. Write to: Michelle Rhoads, stellation Rd., Santa Clarita, CA Transportation Leadworker, City 91355. Phone: (661) 259-6309. of Corvallis Public Works Dept. Greater Roanoke, Va. Dead- P.O. Box 1083, Corvallis, OR line: Jan. 11, 2007. Write to: Wil- 97339. Phone: (541) 766-6916. liam Holdren, Assistant General Call Lisa [at (541) 754-1759] for a Manager, Greater Roanoke Transit list of specific charter-type events. Co., P.O. Box 13247 (1108 Camp- Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell bell Ave., S.E.), Roanoke, VA and Tazewell counties, Va. Dead- 24032. Phone: (540) 982-0305.

8 December 15, 2006 INDUSTRY NEWS Bus & Motorcoach NEWS Coach America Coach America maintains the contract services for municipali- nation’s second-largest fleet of ties and corporations, and tours Coach USA/Coach Canada CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 passenger transportation vehicles, and sightseeing. will maintain Coach America’s with more than 2,600 motorcoach- “As an active investor in the post strong financial results unwavering commitment to the es, midsize buses, trolleys, double- transportation sector, we bring highest quality service for all pas- decker buses, vans and other vehi- extensive experience in the indus- PERTH, Scotland — Stagecoach That put the operating margin for sengers.” cles. try to our partnership with Coach Group has reported its Coach USA Coach USA/Coach Canada at 12.3 The company was formed just America,” said Marc Kramer, and Coach Canada subsidiaries percent this year, versus 12 percent A nice fit over three years ago when Coach another managing director at Fen- turned in robust financial results a year ago. In its announcement, Fenway USA sold more than 30 of its sub- way Partners and head of the for the six months ended Oct. 31. Interestingly, the operating mar- Partners said Coach America com- sidiary bus and coach companies firm’s transportation/logistics unit. Stagecoach Group chairman, gin for Coach USA/Coach Canada bines two of the investment com- to Kohlberg & Co. for $155 mil- “Considering Coach America’s Robert Speirs, said the results was higher than the margin posted pany’s areas of focused activity: lion. After the sale, many of the significant competitive advan- reflect a continuing focus on rev- by Stagecoach Group bus units in transportation/logistics and value- smaller operations were shutdown tages, talented management team enue growth and close manage- the United Kingdom. That figure added distribution. or absorbed by larger units. and employee base, strong history ment of controllable costs. was 11.3 percent. “Coach America is an industry of both organic performance and The gains came despite losses Coach USA/Coach Canada has leading business with unmatched Rapid growth successful acquisition integration, in the new megabus.com curbside a combined fleet of 2,900 vehicles, expertise in providing superior Since 2003, Lentzsch has more and the consistently positive service that was launched by while Stagecoach operates 7,000 service on a local level across than doubled the overall size of the industry trends, we see substantial Coach USA in the Midwest earlier buses across the U.K. many key U.S. regions,” said Mac company, with acquisitions from opportunity for the company’s this year (see April 1 Bus & Motor- Stagecoach Group CEO Brian LaFollette, a managing director at Maryland and Florida, to Idaho continued growth and expansion.” coach News). Megabus.com had Souter said Coach USA and Coach Fenway. and Oregon. Fenway Partners, which also revenue of $2.2 million during the Canada continue to experience “As one of the few operators Today, Coach America opera- maintains offices in Los Angeles, six months ended Oct. 31, and lost strong growth in their sightseeing, with the scale and resources to tions are focused in the West, has $1.6 billion in assets under $1 million. charter, contract, commuter and compete in a fragmented industry, Southwest, Pacific Coast, South- management. Total revenue at Coach USA scheduled services. Coach America has established east and South Central U.S., and it Among companies it owns are and Coach Canada for the half- Fuel costs continue to exert cost itself as a profitable company with does business under a variety of sporting goods manufacturer year ended Oct. 31, was $253.5 pressures, according to Souter, leading positions in nearly every brand names, including Coach Easton Bell Sports, school year- million, a 7.7 percent increase over who noted that a $10 per barrel market in which it competes, excel- USA, American Coach Lines, book and class-ring manufacturer same-period 2005 revenue of $235.4 movement in the price of crude oil lent geographic positioning, a solid Gray Line, Arrow Stage Lines, All American Achievement, trans- million. Excluding the impact of can impact total Stagecoach Group organizational infrastructure and West, Raz Transportation and portation-and-logistics provider two upstate New York units that fuel costs by $16 million. For that tremendous potential for growth. Kerrville Bus. Greatwide, expedited ground were shutdown, revenue was up 10.8 reason, the company maintains an These characteristics make it an The company and its 5,000 transportation provider Panther percent on a comparable basis. ongoing hedging program. excellent fit with Fenway’s focused employees provide charters, com- Expedited Services, and inter- Operating profit for the six For more information, includ- investment strategy on core sec- muter runs, airport and casino modal trucking service provider months of this year was $31.2 mil- ing results for Stagecoach Group, tors,” LaFollette added. shuttles, rail crew transportation, RoadLink USA. lion, versus $28.3 million last year. go to www.stagecoachgroup.com.

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Bus & Motorcoach NEWS INDUSTRY NEWS December 15, 2006 9 Michelin, WABCO launch Slow tire leak linked to crash tire monitoring system RAYBROOK, N.Y. — A tiny left front tire led to the tragedy. ing device was found on his body. puncture in a steer-axle tire is being The tire, losing pressure and And none of the surviving passen- GREENVILLE, S.C. — Mich- regularly measure and transmit tire blamed for the worst bus crash on heating up with roadway friction, gers reported anything that sug- elin and WABCO plan to begin inflation pressure data via radio New York highways in more than finally blew as the driver was pass- gested Burgess was overly tired, jointly selling their Integrated Ve- frequency to an electronic control four years. ing a tractor-trailer near Elizabeth- much less falling asleep at the hicle Tire Pressure Monitoring unit that transmits the information A Greyhound coach heading to town, N.Y. wheel, Smith said. System in the North American bus to a dash-mounted display. Montreal in August crashed through Displaying photos of skid Nor could Burgess, nor anyone and truck market. The system has The dashboard display features a guard rail and over an embank- marks and rubber burned into the else, have been expected to detect been available in Europe since visual and acoustic signals to warn ment, killing five people, including pavement, Smith said the driver, the tiny puncture that began the 2003. drivers of abnormally low tire the driver. 52-year-old Ronald Burgess, did chain reaction. The IVTM system offers real- pressure, slow leaks and tire posi- The last time that many people his best to avoid the crash, but he However, the driver’s excessive time pressure information that is tion. Once a potential problem is were killed in a New York bus crash may, in fact, have exacerbated the speed may have contributed to the critical to drivers and fleet owners, detected, the in-bus display moni- was in June 2002, when a driver for bus’ downward spiral over the em- magnitude of the accident, but it said Marc Laferriere, vice presi- tor warning lamps also advise the Coach USA fell asleep and his bus bankment as he slammed on the was not a cause, Smith said. dent of marketing for Michelin driver of the appropriate corrective ran off Interstate 90 near Victor, anti-lock brakes, propelling the “I want to believe his actions Americas Truck Tires. “The on- action. N.Y., also killing five people. The coach further to the left. helped to save lives,” said Smith. board monitor gives the driver a The system can be retrofitted driver survived that crash. Smith took great pains to absolve “Going from 78 miles per hour to constant readout of tire pressure … and is available now. Announcing the results of the Burgess of any responsibility, how- zero in six seconds, there’s a lot of to ease worries about incorrect Meanwhile, SmarTire System, investigation into the August crash, ever, seeking to dispel rumors that energy that has to be dissipated. It inflation pressure, slow leaks and another manufacturer of wireless which saw some passengers thrown circulated after the Aug. 28 crash. could have been much worse.” related breakdowns.” tire monitoring systems, has filed a through windows and others crushed Burgess had no history of acci- Of the 52 passengers on board, Using an algorithm that com- patent for an external valve sensor in the wreckage as the bus rolled dents or violations in the previous 48 were injured. pares information between and used for its pressure monitoring over and over again onto its roof, three years. He had neither alcohol The National Transportation across axles, the system monitors system for commercial buses and New York State Police Maj. Richard nor drugs in his blood. No music Safety Board also is investigating the tire pressure and can warn of im- trucks. C. Smith Jr. said a slow leak in the player, cell phone or other distract- crash, but its report is not imminent. proper pressure and slow leaks. “SmarTire’s external valve sen- The majority of all tire failures sors will reduce the installation Is it snowing in British Columbia? Find out free start with slow leaks, which can be costs of tire pressure monitoring VICTORIA, British Columbia B.C. Ministry of Transportation, and The number to call is (800) prevented by IVTM, said Laferriere. systems and enable faster imple- — British Columbia has long has previously cost 75 cents a call. 550-4997. Or, the information can The system consists of external mentation for large fleets during maintained a hotline where drivers Now, a call is free from anywhere be found on the ministry’s Web site, wheel-mounted modules that are retrofit in the aftermarket,” said can learn the condition of roads in in Canada or the U.S. Transpor- www.drivebc.ca, which has more connected to the tire valves with David Warkentin, vice president of the mountainous Canadian province. tation Minister Kevin Falcon says it’s details, including live traffic images pneumatic hoses. The modules sales and marketing for SmarTire. The service is operated by the more important that drivers be safe. from 70 cameras.

panies usually do not want. Among the key issues that independent entity. parted on a companion provision Charter rules While the FTA had the authority to were not settled were the defini- Motorcoach coach carriers that would allow the FTA to issue CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 redo the controversial rules on its tion of “charter,” the use of admin- also asked to include wording in a cease and desist order against the proposed rules, while the issues own, it turned instead to the pri- istrative law judges to settle dis- the rules that would require transit transit agency if it found that the left unsettled when the talks ended vate and public carriers and set up putes and public transit agencies agencies to at least cover their planned charter would be a viola- will be determined by the FTA. the negotiated rulemaking ses- being required to charge at least costs when they do charter work tion of the rules. Rewriting of the rules was sions in hopes the two sides could enough to recover their costs when for government-funded human There was strong agreement ordered by Congress last year in a get together and write new regula- they do charters. services organizations and non- on an expanded use of the Internet bold attempt to bring an end to the tions that would settle the feud. profit groups. The transit agencies for transit agencies to notify the long-running squabble between Although successful in a num- ‘We don’t think you objected, suggesting that the pri- motorcoach industry of pending the private and public sectors over ber of areas, the two sides re- vate carriers should not be con- charter work and for the private charter service. Their differences mained sharply split on several cerned about how the agencies operators to respond. have led to a steady flow of com- critical issues, all of which now should be giving away handle charges for charters. Under the proposed rules, mo- plaints of violations filed by pri- will be decided by the FTA “We don’t think you should be torcoach carriers would have to vate operators against transit agen- lawyers. charter work for free.’ giving away charter work for free,” register on an FTA Web site in the cies across the country. (See relat- contended committee member zip codes in which they are inter- ed articles.) Outcome expected Both sides exchanged pro- Gladys Gillis, president of the ested in serving and the transit Under current rules, transit The two sides acknowledged posed charter definitions several Northwest Motorcoach Associa- agencies would notify them elec- agencies planning to provide char- after the final meeting that they times before they gave up and said tion, who added that the organiza- tronically when they want to take ter service must notify the motor- were not surprised at the outcome, they were too far apart to reach an tions receive federal funding on a charter. If a transit agency coach industry in advance and although they had hoped that more accommodation. specifically for transportation and were to receive a call from some- then step aside if a “willing and could have been done. While they did agree to ex- it should be used for that purpose. one seeking a charter job that the able” private carrier says it wants “The process came to its logi- clude the word “exclusive” — a The cost recovery issue sur- transit agency knew it could not the job. cal conclusion because no one major sticking point in the past — faced after both sides agreed to legally perform, it would refer the ever thought we could agree on from the definition, the transit have the rules contain a series of caller to the Web site where the Lines drawn everything,” said Victor Parra, agencies insisted that it contain the exemptions that would allow the names and telephone numbers of Motorcoach operators have president and chief executive of words “not open to the general transit agencies to do some charter private charter companies could complained for years that transit the United Motorcoach Associa- public.” The private operators work without first offering it to be found. agencies regularly skirt or break tion and a member of the negotiat- countered that the inclusion of the private carriers. Federally funded The private carriers were espe- the rules and take lucrative special ing committee. “We knew where phrase would allow transit agen- groups that serve the elderly, poor, cially pleased with the registration event charter business away from they were coming from, so I’m not cies to simply continue to tem- disabled and others in need of spe- process because they would be them by disguising it as public surprised with how it turned out.” porarily extend existing routes out cial government assistance were able to stop bus brokers from tak- transit. Their trick, the operators He said how well the two sides to the sites of special events. among those exemptions. ing part. Under the proposal, in contend, is to temporarily extend did in stressing their positions on The exemptions also would order to register on the Web site, a regular transit routes to the sites of the disputed issues now will show Sticking point No. 2 permit transit agencies to provide business would have to have a fed- the events and then pass up people up in the draft of the rules that will The proposal to use adminis- charter service to government eral operating authority certifi- waiting at regular stops in favor of be prepared by the FTA lawyers. trative law judges to settle formal officials, although the two sides cate, which brokers usually do not going directly to the events. “The proof will be in the paper,” complaints of charter service rules were unable to agree on the have. Additionally, the private carri- he added. violations was pushed by the amount of those types of charters While a number of key issues ers suggest that transit agencies Daniel Duff, chief council of motorcoach operators who argued that should be allowed. The motor- were left at the bargaining table, attract some charter work by dan- the American Public Transit that the decision maker should be coach carriers wanted it held to 80 both sides will have one final shot gling below-market rates in front Association and also a committee independent of the FTA, which hours each year, while the transit at trying to convince the FTA to of potential customers — rates member, said the issues that were now uses regional administrators agencies held out for 125 hours. accept some of their ideas. they stress are made possible be- left unresolved have been debated to judge the complaints. The tran- Under the rulemaking process, cause transit operations and equip- by the two sides for years and he sit agencies said they were satis- More agreement the FTA will be required to hold at ment are subsidized by taxpayer was not surprised by the outcome fied with the current system and Both sides also bought into a least one — and potentially two — dollars flowing through the feder- either. “Although we weren’t able wanted to keep it intact. proposal that would allow them to 60- to 90-day public comment peri- al government. to come to an agreement on a Horner had indicated at an ear- seek “advisory opinions” from the od and, as the meeting ended, com- The transit agencies argue they number of key issues, we did lier meeting that the FTA liked the FTA if there were questions about mittee members already were dis- are simply filling a public need agree on some issues that should idea of turning over the responsi- a charter job that a transit agency cussing possible comments that and doing work that private com- benefit both sides,” he said. bility of judging complaints to an was planning to do. However, they they might want to offer.

ISSUE NO. 91 How to contact us: Godfrey LeBron To submit or report news, Letters to the Editor, Paradise Trailways To advertise or to mail advertising-related Hicksville, N.Y. articles, news releases: materials: A PUBLICATION OF THE UNITED MOTORCOACH ASSOCIATION E-mail: [email protected] Call: Johnny Steger Joan Libby (623) 930-8422 or (602) 980-0840 Cavalier Coach Fax: (866) 930-8426 Staff Advisory Board Boston, Mass. Mail: 4930 W. Glendale Ave., Suite 6 E-mail: [email protected] Editor & Publisher William Allen Steve Haddad Michael Neustadt Glendale, AZ 85301 Mail: 4930 W. Glendale Ave., Suite 6 Sierra Trailways Carl R. Bieber Tourways Coach Tours Victor Parra Call: (623) 930-8423 Glendale, AZ 85301 Sacramento, Calif. Kutstown, Pa. Brookfield, Conn. To contact the Sales Director Senior Editor Larry Benjamin Rick Hillard Jeff Polzien To subscribe or inquire about your subscription: Northfield Lines Tri-State Tours Red Carpet Tours United Motorcoach Association: Johnny Steger Bruce Sankey Call: (623) 930-8421 Northfield, Minn. Galena, Ill. Oklahoma City E-mail: [email protected] Call: (800) 424-8262 Industry Editor Associate Editor Dave Bolen Todd Holland Tom Ready Online: www.uma.org New World Tours Ramblin' Express Ready Bus Lines Fax: (866) 930-8426 Ken Presley Ellen Balm Bristow,Va. Colorado Springs LaCrescent, Minn. Mail: 4930 W. Glendale Ave., Suite 6 To send advertisements or photographs Brian Scott Glendale, AZ 85301 via the Internet: Editorial Assistant Editorial Assistant David Brown Robert Hume Tara Sheehan Amy Stalknecht Holiday Tours Travel Mates Trailways Escot Bus Lines E-mail: [email protected] Randlemann, N.C. Harrisonburg, Va. Largo, Fla. To report corrections: Editorial Assistant Art Director Steve Brown Daryl G. Johnson Michelle Silvestro Call: (623) 930-8421 J & J Charters National Interstate Insurance Co. Eric Morales Mary E. McCarty Brown Coach E-mail: [email protected] Amsterdam, N.Y. Crosby, Texas Richfield, Ohio ©2006 by the United Motorcoach Association. Accountant Bob Foley Dale Krapf T. Ralph Young Reproduction in whole or in part without ABC Companies Krapf Coaches Young Transportation written permission is prohibited. John Giddens Faribault, Minn. West Chester, Pa. Ashville, N.C.

12 December 15, 2006 INDUSTRY NEWS Bus & Motorcoach NEWS Bonanza Bus Lines founder, George Sage, dies suddenly BRISTOL, R.I. — George M. included the president of Babson role in creating a performing arts ing the Short Line Bus Co., of Sage, who founded one of the most College in Wellesley, Mass., the facility at St. Andrew’s School and Newport, R.I., in 1955. successful regional line–run com- president and CEO of the Ameri- long-time support of the United He eventually called his grow- panies in the second half of the can Hockey League, and a wide Way. He served as general cam- ing operation Bonanza Bus Lines 20th century, Bonanza Bus Lines, spectrum of individuals from the paign chairman in 1971, several but he apparently did not, as leg- died here Dec. 4. He was 74. bus industry, ranging from a retired years as treasurer of the United end has it, name the company after Mr. Sage, a dedicated tennis Greyhound driver to the president Way International, and chairman the hit television series of the same player, was playing his favorite and CEO of Peter Pan Bus Lines. in 1987. name that ran on NBC from 1959- game when he collapsed. He was “George was a friend and col- The United Way of South- 1973. He operated the business for taken to Rhode Island Hospital league, mentor, philanthropist and eastern New England presented 43 years. where he died. most importantly a devoted hus- him with its prestigious Alexis de In 1998, Mr. Sage sold his While Mr. Sage was a success- band, friend and grandfather,” said Tocqueville Society Award. company to Coach USA during the ful entrepreneur, business execu- Peter A. Picknelly, president of George Sage He also was a director of height of its consolidation drive. tive and bus operator, he also was Peter Pan. “George advanced his Junior Achievement, a trustee of Less than five years later, Peter Pan known throughout Rhode Island bus line from a single vehicle hockey team in 1969 and owned it Providence Country Day School bought Bonanza and other regional for his extraordinary civic involve- transporting apple pickers to and for seven trying years. The team and a member of the Rhode Island operators from Coach USA. ment and philanthropy. from work to one of the largest and folded at the end of the 1976-77 Commodore Commission. He was Peter Pan officially retired the His generosity extended to the most well-respected bus compa- season. He was given a Tops an incorporator of Johnson & Bonanza Bus Lines brand simulta- motorcoach industry, with one of nies in the Northeast.” Award three years ago by the Wales University and a director neously with the renaming of the his last gifts a $50,000 donation to Last May, Peter Pan’s terminal Reds’ Heritage Society, a nonprof- and member of the executive com- terminal for Mr. Sage. aid fund-raising at the Museum of in Providence was renamed the it group that honors those who mittee of New England Electric Mr. Sage is survived by his Bus Transportation in Hershey, Pa. George M. Sage Terminal at a cer- have contributed outstanding serv- System. widow, Barbara ‘Boo’ Sage; a son, (See article on Page 15.) emony attended by state and local ice to the hockey club and to the One admirer called Mr. Sage a George ‘Jim’ Sage Jr.; a daughter, Immediately upon Mr. Sage’s officials. Following his death, a community. “community leader without peer.” Anne ‘Twink’ Sage, and two death, the tributes to him and the wreath was placed in the terminal Mr. Sage played an important Mr. Sage got into the bus busi- grandchildren. condolences to his family poured in his honor. role in the development of down- ness when he purchased a half A memorial has been estab- in. The largest newspaper in Rhode Born in Rochester, N.Y., Mr. town Providence by supporting the interest in a one-bus company that lished in his name at St. Andrew’s Island, the Providence Journal, Sage was a graduate of Deerfield construction of the Providence transported apple pickers from School, 63 Federal Rd., Barring- called Mr. Sage a transportation Academy and Babson College. Civic Center, now called the Albion, N.Y., to the orchards near ton, RI 02806, and with the United icon, sports enthusiast, philanthro- Always an avid hockey enthu- Dunkin’ Donuts Center. Lake Ontario. Building on the suc- Way of Rhode Island. Go to pist and community leader. siast, he purchased the legendary His philanthropy and civic cess of that small operation, he www.uwri.com or call (401) 444- The diversity of the tributes Rhode Island Reds minor-league involvement included a leadership purchased other bus lines, includ- 0611.

14 December 15, 2006 INDUSTRY NEWS Bus & Motorcoach NEWS

Edenfield Stages: $41,000 Starkville Trailways: $46,856 Burlington Trailways: $83,985 Lift grants Greensburg, Pa. Starkville, Miss. W. Burlington, Iowa Caterpillar C13 Fullington Trailways: $86,230 FTA Region VIII CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 FTA Region V Clearfield, Pa. Able Trek Tours Inc.: $15,007 Ramblin Express: $26,200 information about the program, Fun Tours: $33,692 Reedsburg, Wis. Colorado Springs engine gets OK contact Blenda Younger of the Virginia Beach, Va. Colonial Coach Lines: $146,000 FTA Region IX Gold Line: $162,000: Tuxedo, Md. FTA Office of Program Manage- Mt. Prospect, Ill. Alan Waxler Group Inc.: $40,547 from U.S. EPA Keller Transportation: $97,730 Indian Trails Inc.: $26,100 Las Vegas ment at (202) 366-2053. Waldorf, Md. Owosso, Mich. All West Coachlines: $39,155 MOSSVILLE, Ill. — Cater- Lodestar Bus Lines: $28,000 Jefferson Lines: $77,670 Sacramento, Calif. pillar Inc. has received certifica- Johnstown, Pa. FTA Region I Minneapolis Amador Stage Lines: $90,020 tion from the U. S. Environmental Martz Trailways: $137,800 K&K Bus Lines: $25,000 Sacramento, Calif. Concord Coach Lines: $90,600 Wilkes-Barre, Pa. Protection Agency for the 2007 Concord, N.H. Montgomery, Ind. Celebrity Coaches : $42,990 National Coach Works: $40,000 Las Vegas version of the engine it markets to Northeast Charter/Tour: $43,599 Lakefront Lines: $75,600 Fredericksburg, Va. Chinese Hosts Inc.: $38,837 the motorcoach industry, the C13. Lewiston, Maine Brook Park, Ohio Sun Coach Lines: $26,499 Las Vegas Peter Pan Arrow Line: $40,000 Minnesota Coaches: $30,760 The C15 engine, which is pri- McKeesport, Pa. Coach USA Elko: $40,950 Springfield, Mass. Hastings, Minn. marily used in trucks, also was Trans-Bridge Lines: $130,950 Prairie Trailways: $25,300: Chicago Elko, Nev. Peter Pan Bonanza: $88,381 Bethlehem, Pa. Coach USA Los Angeles: $39,655 certified by EPA. Springfield Ready Bus Line: $25,962 FTA Region IV La Crescent, Minn. Long Beach, Calif. Both engines use Cat’s ACERT Peter Pan Bus Lines: $144,755 American Charters Ltd.: $23,500 Riteway Bus Service: $98,577 El Camino Charter Lines: $32,500 technology to reduce exhaust Springfield Charlotte, N.C. San Francisco Richfield, Wis. Plymouth & Brockton: $55,620 American Coach Lines: $23,500 Franciscan Lines: $36,955 emissions. Cat said the approvals Wisconsin Coach Lines: $90,000 Plymouth, Mass. Norcross, Ga. San Francisco position the company to meet fu- Waukesha, Wis. Premier Coach Co.: $28,405 American Coach Lines: $26,200 Grand Tours: $38,500: Las Vegas ture EPA emissions regulations. Colchester, Vt. Jacksonville, Fla. FTA Region VI H&L Charter Co. Inc.: $26,200 “These certifications demon- FTA Region II American Coach Lines : $22,500 All Aboard America: $79,300 Rancho Cucamonga, Calif. Adirondack Trailways: $157,500 Orlando, Fla. Santa Fe, N.M. LD Tours: $42,000: Las Vegas strate that engines with ACERT Hurley, N.Y. Angelic Tours/Shuttles: $40,000 Americanos USA: $37,800: Dallas Polynesian Adventure: $21,932 technology for 2007 are ready to Classic Tours: $29,170 Fayetteville, NC Arrow Trailways Texas: $23,462 Honolulu serve our customers in North Lakewood, N.J. Burke International: $25,392 Killeen, Texas RDH Transportation: $18,451 America,” said James J. Parker, Hampton Jitney: $30,137 Maiden, N.C. Crucero USA: $113,400: Dallas Honolulu Southampton, N.Y. Capital Trailways: $25,492 El Expreso Bus: $49,600: Houston Ryan’s Express: $31,000 vice president of Caterpillar Power J&R Tours Ltd.: $25,200 Montgomery, Ala. El Paso-Los Angeles Limo Las Vegas Systems Marketing Division. Mount Vernon, N.Y. First Class Coach Co.: $32,500 $107,865: El Paso, Texas Silverado Stages: $102,300 For 2007, the ACERT technol- San Luis Obispo, Calif. Lion Trailways: $58,000 St. Petersburg, Fla. Greyhound: $2,803,950: Dallas ogy relies on four basic systems to Rio Grande, N.J. Florida Cruise Connect.: $21,250 Gulf Coast Transport: $42,310 Solazteca: $33,400: Los Angeles FTA Region III Sarasota, Fla. Houston Transportes Intercalif. $41,000 lower emissions — air manage- Los Angeles Anderson Coach/Travel: $33,389 KTC Transportation Co.: $41,000 Kerrville Bus Co.: $48,600 ment, precision combustion, ad- Triple J Tours: $21,995: Las Vegas Greenville, Pa. Charlotte, N.C. San Antonio, Texas Via Adventures: $28,706 vanced electronics and exhaust Butler Motor Transit: $39,000 Magic Carpet Ride: $24,901 Star Shuttle & Charter: $40,118 after-treatment. San Antonio Merced, Calif. Butler, Pa. Vero Beach, Fla. Cat says the four systems de- Capitol Trailways: $110,900 Midnight Sun Tours: $46,000 TNM&O: $83,700: Lubbock, Texas FTA Region X Harrisburg, Pa. Lake Worth, Fla. FTA Region VII Northwestern Trailways: $36,000 crease particulate matter, oxides of Spokane, Wash. David Thomas Tours: $26,200 Morgan & Sons: $41,000 Arrow Stage Lines: $28,000 nitrogen and hydrocarbon emis- Premier Alaska Tours: $25,700 Philadelphia Greensboro, N.C. Norfolk, Neb. sions while preserving the engine’s Dillon’s Bus Service: $23,500 Southern Coach Co.: $29,800 Anchorage B&B Tour & Charter: $35,000 Wheatland Express: $38,863 reliability and durability, which Millersville, Md. Durham, N.C. Kansas City, Mo. Pullman, Wash. keep operating costs low.

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973 589-9265 • Toll Free 800-526-8055 FAX 973-589-2253 • P.O. BOX 5157 • NEWARK, NJ 07105 www.nimcobus.com 20 YEARS OF SERVICE! Supplying the Transportation Industry with Used, Serviceable & Rebuildable Bus Parts for Over 25 Years! VOLUME DISCOUNTS • PRIDE IN PERFORMANCE DEEP DISCOUNTS! on all Detroit Diesel & Allison Transmissions SAVE MONEY ~ SAVE TIME We sell good running qualified bus components. NO RISK PURCHASE PLAN LOOKING FORWARD TO We unconditionally guarantee our customers satisfaction. ANOTHER GREAT YEAR IN 2007 WITH OUR NEW WE ALSO STOCK FLORIDA FACILITY! • Front and Rear Axle Parts • Engine Accessories • Alternators and other Electrical Components • Air Conditioning Components • Body Parts 800-334-2871 [email protected] www.coachcrafters.com We Buy & Sell Buses. . . Call for a Quote Serving the nation from facilities in Florida and Minnesota. Bus & Motorcoach NEWS INDUSTRY NEWS December 15, 2006 15 Bus museum purchases Operator honored as leading entrepreneur LANHAM, Md. — Marcia Milton founded her company versity in Hampton, Va., Milton its own storage facility Fields Milton of First Priority seven years ago with one bus, two worked at a community hospital in Trailways has been named the top drivers and $50,000 she had saved. Washington, D.C., directing its HERSHEY, Pa. — The Transportation, 161 Museum Dr., entrepreneur of Prince George’s Today, First Priority operates a school-to-work transition program Museum of Bus Transportation has Hershey, PA 17033. County, Md., by the Prince fleet of 17 vehicles and has 70 em- and organizing field trips and col- acquired something it has been For more information, contact George’s Chamber of Commerce. ployees. Revenues are expected to lege tours before launching her wanting for a long time: a perma- Pastor Daniel Lehman, vice presi- She was nominated for the reach $3.5 million this year. The company. nent place to store and maintain dent and fleet manager, at icarry- award by chamber members and company is based in District Last month, Milton was elected buses that are not on display. [email protected], or Dock- named the winner by a committee Heights, Md. to the board of the United Motor- Until now, the museum has had endorf at (717) 787-1220. of previous recipients. A graduate of Hampton Uni- coach Association. to rent storage space. The building, formerly a garage, has room for 12 buses and already is adapted for bus maintenance and repair. It’s also conve- niently located in Hummelstown, Pa., a mere one-and-a-half miles from the museum in Hershey. In the view of museum Presi- dent John Dockendorf, the new storage facility is ideally located. He notes that many of the museum’s antique buses are only “mar- ginally roadworthy” and should not be driven very far. In fact, some cannot be driven and must be towed to and from the museum display area. The only down side is the building’s size. Normally 9 of the museum’s approximately 30 antique buses are on display on the museum floor at any one time. The new facility holds 12. That means a few buses must remain in the hands of volunteers who provide storage for them when they come off display. Dockendorf believes the museum houses the largest indoor display of antique buses in the country. He says there are larger dis- plays elsewhere, but they are usually outside and, of course, the weath- er deteriorates the vehicles. The public will have an opportunity to view the new building in June. The museum plans to conduct its 2007 Spring Fling there June 2. NEW SINGLE USE Good time to give ® The storage facility was purchased for $340,000. The museum POT SHOT made a down payment of $100,000 and has a mortgage for the balance, • Easy to Use The power of POT SHOT in a which it expects to pay off with convenient, portion controlled, donations. Early contributions • Measured Dosage through the end of October had • Powerful Odor Control single use bottle. Portion reached $50,000. Control POT SHOT is more Anyone considering making a • Low Cost effective then any other donation to the museum may “dou- • Super Concentrated ble” their gift by doing so before portion controlled product the end of the year. • Pleasant Fragrance on the market. Each bottle is Prior to his death this month, George Sage, former owner of • Non-Staining Blue Dye individually labeled with use Bonanza Bus Lines, made provi- • Non-Formaldehyde instructions. No more packets sions to match all donations to the museum received before Dec. 31. • Biodegradable that melt, stick together, and/or (See obituary on Page 12.) • Safe for Dump Valves damage dump valves. The museum qualifies as a charitable organization for tax pur- poses. UNIT CHEMICAL CORPORATION Those interested in donating to the museum can use its secure Web (800) 879-8648 www.unitchemical.com site at www.busmuseum.org, or mail a check to Museum of Bus 60 Years Manufacturing Environmentally Safe Products MOT705_Bus_News_Ad 12/23/05 8:18 AM Page 1

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