From unkidale at coosahs.net  Fri Jun  2 03:22:10 2006
From: unkidale at coosahs.net (Dale Cooper)
Date: Fri, 2 Jun 2006 02:22:10 -0600
Subject: [Rebels1972] the Reunion
References: <000701c683de$e4dd13f0$6001a8c0@chuckp330>
Message-ID: <004801c6861d$a5471330$3d02a8c0@flashy>

  Sir Billiam, Where in the world did you see Ricky Minor in the pics. ? Still Looking for Him, Coop !-- Original Message ----- 
  From: Thompson Family 
  To: 'Sansom Class of 1972' 
  Sent: Tuesday, May 30, 2006 5:47 AM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] the Reunion


  I agree with Sir Billiam.  I had a great time seeing so many of our old friends.  Without that party, I may have never seen them again.  I hope all of you guys had as much fun as I did.  Big thanks to Susan, Tony, Carol and the rest of the gang who worked so hard on our behalf.  I could have spent the whole time watching the slide show on the wall.  

   

  Best regards,

   

  Chuck

   

  PS:  Sir Billiam, thanks again for the snare drum.  I'll make certain it gets used.    

   


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

  From: Rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net [mailto:Rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net] On Behalf Of Bill Stonecypher
  Sent: Tuesday, May 30, 2006 4:54 AM
  To: Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
  Subject: [Rebels1972] the Reunion

   

  I got back home Sunday about 7:30 pm.  I had a really good time at the reunion and enjoyed seeing everyone.  I have really missed all so much.  I didn't realize Rick Minor was there until I saw a pic Tony posted with him in it.  If Tony hadn't marked the photo as containing the image of Rick I would not have recognized him.  I wish I seen him there too.  It was so good to see everyone again.

   

  I noticed the election signs all around town and thought I might register as a candidate for Coroner but with the election only three weeks away there wouldn't be enough time for that.  May be next time.

   

  I hope everyone had as good a time as I did at the reunion though.

  Billiam





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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Fri Jun  2 14:49:45 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Fri, 2 Jun 2006 12:49:45 -0700
Subject: [Rebels1972] Emma Sansom Trophies
Message-ID: <20060602124945.4A80BA07@resin05.mta.everyone.net>

Folks, 

      While in Gadsden, I put together some video clips.  Using 'Movie Maker', I clipped them, added sound to them, and title and closing graphics.  

      I apologize that the videos of the trophies in the Moore room were so dark.  They only had very low lighting in there.  

      But check it out.  The URL is: http://www.mishmash.com/esh_trophies.  The next time someone doubts you when you [rightfully] brag about how many trophies we received, be sure to show them this video.   

      It is supposed to autostart, but that doesn't seem to work for some reason.  The file is about eight and a half megabytes, so it might take a while to download (depending upon the speed of your Internet connection).  

      Let me know how you like it.  

      Regards, 



                                             Fred Atkinson 


From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Fri Jun  2 19:29:47 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Fri, 2 Jun 2006 20:29:47 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] Emma Sansom Trophies
References: <20060602124945.4A80BA07@resin05.mta.everyone.net>
Message-ID: <002201c686a4$d24b3320$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

Well, is anyone going to comment?

    Tony?  You're the video/graphics expert here.


                                                            Fred

----- Original Message -----
From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
To: "Sansom 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
Sent: Friday, June 02, 2006 3:49 PM
Subject: [Rebels1972] Emma Sansom Trophies


> Folks,
>
>       While in Gadsden, I put together some video clips.  Using 'Movie
Maker', I clipped them, added sound to them, and title and closing graphics.
>
>       I apologize that the videos of the trophies in the Moore room were
so dark.  They only had very low lighting in there.
>
>       But check it out.  The URL is: http://www.mishmash.com/esh_trophies.
The next time someone doubts you when you [rightfully] brag about how many
trophies we received, be sure to show them this video.
>
>       It is supposed to autostart, but that doesn't seem to work for some
reason.  The file is about eight and a half megabytes, so it might take a
while to download (depending upon the speed of your Internet connection).
>
>       Let me know how you like it.
>
>       Regards,
>
>
>
>                                              Fred Atkinson
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net



From tonynichols at bellsouth.net  Sat Jun  3 01:10:32 2006
From: tonynichols at bellsouth.net (Tony Nichols)
Date: Sat, 3 Jun 2006 01:10:32 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] Emma Sansom Trophies
In-Reply-To: <002201c686a4$d24b3320$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
Message-ID: <002301c686d4$6c11c350$fc01a8c0@TonysM55>

Sorry Fred,

Since the reunion, I've been trying to catch up some at work and have been
working long hours.  I took a look at your video earlier, but had my monthly
corporate taxes to pay and two job estimates to get out today.

I liked the video, but it made me want to go and spend some time getting a
closer look at all those trophies.  Maybe we need to put a button on each
trophy case so that visitors can hear some of the music from "The Greatest
Band in Dixie".  Your site worked just fine for me and the streaming video
started on its own.

Good job!!

Tony

-----Original Message-----
From: Rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net
[mailto:Rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net] On Behalf Of Fred Atkinson
Sent: Friday, June 02, 2006 7:30 PM
To: fatkinson at mishmash.com; Sansom Class of 1972
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] Emma Sansom Trophies

Well, is anyone going to comment?

    Tony?  You're the video/graphics expert here.


                                                            Fred

----- Original Message -----
From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
To: "Sansom 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
Sent: Friday, June 02, 2006 3:49 PM
Subject: [Rebels1972] Emma Sansom Trophies


> Folks,
>
>       While in Gadsden, I put together some video clips.  Using 'Movie
Maker', I clipped them, added sound to them, and title and closing graphics.
>
>       I apologize that the videos of the trophies in the Moore room were
so dark.  They only had very low lighting in there.
>
>       But check it out.  The URL is: http://www.mishmash.com/esh_trophies.
The next time someone doubts you when you [rightfully] brag about how many
trophies we received, be sure to show them this video.
>
>       It is supposed to autostart, but that doesn't seem to work for some
reason.  The file is about eight and a half megabytes, so it might take a
while to download (depending upon the speed of your Internet connection).
>
>       Let me know how you like it.
>
>       Regards,
>
>
>
>                                              Fred Atkinson
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net


_______________________________________________
Rebels1972 mailing list
Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net



From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Sat Jun  3 01:35:04 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Sat, 3 Jun 2006 02:35:04 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] Emma Sansom Trophies
References: <002301c686d4$6c11c350$fc01a8c0@TonysM55>
Message-ID: <002a01c686d7$d9deb660$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

Tony,

    Well, it could've been better if there had been better light in the
Moore room.

    Thanks for the confidence.

    That 'Movie Maker' that comes with XP is pretty neat.  I wish it came
with 2000 (since that's what I use).  Since I'm a bit more server oriented,
XP doesn't really get it for me.  But since XP is what I have on my laptop
at work, I can do it there.

    Regards,



                                                                    Fred

----- Original Message -----
From: "Tony Nichols" <tonynichols at bellsouth.net>
To: "'Sansom Class of 1972'" <Rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
Sent: Saturday, June 03, 2006 2:10 AM
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] Emma Sansom Trophies


> Sorry Fred,
>
> Since the reunion, I've been trying to catch up some at work and have been
> working long hours.  I took a look at your video earlier, but had my
monthly
> corporate taxes to pay and two job estimates to get out today.
>
> I liked the video, but it made me want to go and spend some time getting a
> closer look at all those trophies.  Maybe we need to put a button on each
> trophy case so that visitors can hear some of the music from "The Greatest
> Band in Dixie".  Your site worked just fine for me and the streaming video
> started on its own.
>
> Good job!!
>
> Tony
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net
> [mailto:Rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net] On Behalf Of Fred Atkinson
> Sent: Friday, June 02, 2006 7:30 PM
> To: fatkinson at mishmash.com; Sansom Class of 1972
> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] Emma Sansom Trophies
>
> Well, is anyone going to comment?
>
>     Tony?  You're the video/graphics expert here.
>
>
>                                                             Fred
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> To: "Sansom 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> Sent: Friday, June 02, 2006 3:49 PM
> Subject: [Rebels1972] Emma Sansom Trophies
>
>
> > Folks,
> >
> >       While in Gadsden, I put together some video clips.  Using 'Movie
> Maker', I clipped them, added sound to them, and title and closing
graphics.
> >
> >       I apologize that the videos of the trophies in the Moore room were
> so dark.  They only had very low lighting in there.
> >
> >       But check it out.  The URL is:
http://www.mishmash.com/esh_trophies.
> The next time someone doubts you when you [rightfully] brag about how many
> trophies we received, be sure to show them this video.
> >
> >       It is supposed to autostart, but that doesn't seem to work for
some
> reason.  The file is about eight and a half megabytes, so it might take a
> while to download (depending upon the speed of your Internet connection).
> >
> >       Let me know how you like it.
> >
> >       Regards,
> >
> >
> >
> >                                              Fred Atkinson
> >
> > _______________________________________________
> > Rebels1972 mailing list
> > Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net



From unkidale at coosahs.net  Sat Jun  3 14:28:16 2006
From: unkidale at coosahs.net (Dale Cooper)
Date: Sat, 3 Jun 2006 13:28:16 -0600
Subject: [Rebels1972] Emma Sansom Trophies
References: <20060602124945.4A80BA07@resin05.mta.everyone.net>
	<002201c686a4$d24b3320$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
Message-ID: <000601c68743$dd26bd60$3d02a8c0@flashy>

Good Job FRED ! I have just now seen your video. The closing comments are 
priceless. Thank You for the time you have taken. Regards, COOP !
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "Sansom Class of 1972" 
<Rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
Sent: Friday, June 02, 2006 6:29 PM
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] Emma Sansom Trophies


> Well, is anyone going to comment?
>
>    Tony?  You're the video/graphics expert here.
>
>
>                                                            Fred
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> To: "Sansom 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> Sent: Friday, June 02, 2006 3:49 PM
> Subject: [Rebels1972] Emma Sansom Trophies
>
>
>> Folks,
>>
>>       While in Gadsden, I put together some video clips.  Using 'Movie
> Maker', I clipped them, added sound to them, and title and closing 
> graphics.
>>
>>       I apologize that the videos of the trophies in the Moore room were
> so dark.  They only had very low lighting in there.
>>
>>       But check it out.  The URL is: 
>> http://www.mishmash.com/esh_trophies.
> The next time someone doubts you when you [rightfully] brag about how many
> trophies we received, be sure to show them this video.
>>
>>       It is supposed to autostart, but that doesn't seem to work for some
> reason.  The file is about eight and a half megabytes, so it might take a
> while to download (depending upon the speed of your Internet connection).
>>
>>       Let me know how you like it.
>>
>>       Regards,
>>
>>
>>
>>                                              Fred Atkinson
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net 



From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Sat Jun  3 14:23:02 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Sat, 3 Jun 2006 15:23:02 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] Emma Sansom Trophies
References: <20060602124945.4A80BA07@resin05.mta.everyone.net><002201c686a4$d24b3320$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<000601c68743$dd26bd60$3d02a8c0@flashy>
Message-ID: <009e01c68743$225963c0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

Thanks, Coop,

    I just wish there had been more light in the Moore room.

    Regards,


                                                                Fred

----- Original Message -----
From: "Dale Cooper" <unkidale at coosahs.net>
To: "Sansom Class of 1972" <Rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
Sent: Saturday, June 03, 2006 3:28 PM
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] Emma Sansom Trophies


> Good Job FRED ! I have just now seen your video. The closing comments are
> priceless. Thank You for the time you have taken. Regards, COOP !
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "Sansom Class of 1972"
> <Rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> Sent: Friday, June 02, 2006 6:29 PM
> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] Emma Sansom Trophies
>
>
> > Well, is anyone going to comment?
> >
> >    Tony?  You're the video/graphics expert here.
> >
> >
> >                                                            Fred
> >
> > ----- Original Message -----
> > From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> > To: "Sansom 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> > Sent: Friday, June 02, 2006 3:49 PM
> > Subject: [Rebels1972] Emma Sansom Trophies
> >
> >
> >> Folks,
> >>
> >>       While in Gadsden, I put together some video clips.  Using 'Movie
> > Maker', I clipped them, added sound to them, and title and closing
> > graphics.
> >>
> >>       I apologize that the videos of the trophies in the Moore room
were
> > so dark.  They only had very low lighting in there.
> >>
> >>       But check it out.  The URL is:
> >> http://www.mishmash.com/esh_trophies.
> > The next time someone doubts you when you [rightfully] brag about how
many
> > trophies we received, be sure to show them this video.
> >>
> >>       It is supposed to autostart, but that doesn't seem to work for
some
> > reason.  The file is about eight and a half megabytes, so it might take
a
> > while to download (depending upon the speed of your Internet
connection).
> >>
> >>       Let me know how you like it.
> >>
> >>       Regards,
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >>                                              Fred Atkinson
> >>
> >> _______________________________________________
> >> Rebels1972 mailing list
> >> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> >> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> >
> >
> > _______________________________________________
> > Rebels1972 mailing list
> > Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net



From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Sun Jun  4 14:48:32 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Sun, 4 Jun 2006 12:48:32 -0700
Subject: [Rebels1972] These two
Message-ID: <20060604124832.4A8F9AAE@resin06.mta.everyone.net>

     Do you know who these two are?  

     Regards, 



                                                Fred 


From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Sun Jun  4 16:17:35 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Sun, 4 Jun 2006 14:17:35 -0700
Subject: [Rebels1972] Band Pictures Video
Message-ID: <20060604141735.5C8AE61D@resin07.mta.everyone.net>

Folks, 

      I have a lot of revision to do yet, but I have a *very* rough draft of a video I put together using Movie Maker and the shots I took at the Band Reunion.  

      As for why I appeared in the first several slides?  Well, I renamed the files to identify those persons in the pictures.  My name happened to begin with 'A' and I put them in alphabetically by filename.  

      That will change as I reshuffle the order of the slides and add more special effects.  

      I'd like your opinion of what I've done so far.  You can view it at http://www.mishmash.com/esh_band_reunion/ .  

      Regards, 



                                                    Fred 


From bmorgan7459 at charter.net  Sun Jun  4 19:00:20 2006
From: bmorgan7459 at charter.net (bmorgan7459@charter.net)
Date: Sun, 4 Jun 2006 17:00:20 -0700
Subject: [Rebels1972] Band Pictures Video
Message-ID: <567607068.1149465620612.JavaMail.root@fepweb11>

FRED,  NOT BEING A BAND MEMBER BUT BEING A REBEL FOREVER,  I ENJOYED SEEING THE PICTURES FROM THE REUNION.  I WAS INVITED TO ATTEND, AND I HAD PROMISED TO BRING LYNN ALLISON BUT THAT DIDN'T HAPPEN.  MY WIFE AND I WENT ON  VACATION THE WEEK AFTER THE BLOCK PARTY TO UNIVERSAL STUDIOS AND HAD A GREAT TIME.  UNFORTUNATELY ON FRIDAY COMING HOME I FEEL AND BROKE MY RIGHT LEG.  SORRY TO MISS WHAT LOOKED LIKE A WONDERFUL EVENT.  THANKS FOR POSTING THE PHOTOS AND I HOPE YOU CONTINUE TO DO SO.


PAT MORGAN





--- Fred Atkinson <fatkinson at mishmash.com> wrote: 
> Folks, 
> 
>       I have a lot of revision to do yet, but I have a *very* rough draft of a video I put together using Movie Maker and the shots I took at the Band Reunion.  
> 
>       As for why I appeared in the first several slides?  Well, I renamed the files to identify those persons in the pictures.  My name happened to begin with 'A' and I put them in alphabetically by filename.  
> 
>       That will change as I reshuffle the order of the slides and add more special effects.  
> 
>       I'd like your opinion of what I've done so far.  You can view it at http://www.mishmash.com/esh_band_reunion/ .  
> 
>       Regards, 
> 
> 
> 
>                                                     Fred 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net


From bmorgan7459 at charter.net  Sun Jun  4 19:01:34 2006
From: bmorgan7459 at charter.net (bmorgan7459@charter.net)
Date: Sun, 4 Jun 2006 17:01:34 -0700
Subject: [Rebels1972] Band Pictures Video
Message-ID: <1875269996.1149465694490.JavaMail.root@fepweb11>

FRED,  NOT BEING A BAND MEMBER BUT BEING A REBEL FOREVER,  I ENJOYED SEEING THE PICTURES FROM THE REUNION.  I WAS INVITED TO ATTEND, AND I HAD PROMISED TO BRING LYNN ALLISON BUT THAT DIDN'T HAPPEN.  MY WIFE AND I WENT ON  VACATION THE WEEK AFTER THE BLOCK PARTY TO UNIVERSAL STUDIOS AND HAD A GREAT TIME.  UNFORTUNATELY ON FRIDAY COMING HOME I FEEL AND BROKE MY RIGHT LEG.  SORRY TO MISS WHAT LOOKED LIKE A WONDERFUL EVENT.  THANKS FOR POSTING THE PHOTOS AND I HOPE YOU CONTINUE TO DO SO.


PAT MORGAN





--- Fred Atkinson <fatkinson at mishmash.com> wrote: 
> Folks, 
> 
>       I have a lot of revision to do yet, but I have a *very* rough draft of a video I put together using Movie Maker and the shots I took at the Band Reunion.  
> 
>       As for why I appeared in the first several slides?  Well, I renamed the files to identify those persons in the pictures.  My name happened to begin with 'A' and I put them in alphabetically by filename.  
> 
>       That will change as I reshuffle the order of the slides and add more special effects.  
> 
>       I'd like your opinion of what I've done so far.  You can view it at http://www.mishmash.com/esh_band_reunion/ .  
> 
>       Regards, 
> 
> 
> 
>                                                     Fred 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net


From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Sun Jun  4 19:03:45 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Sun, 4 Jun 2006 20:03:45 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] Band Pictures Video
References: <1875269996.1149465694490.JavaMail.root@fepweb11>
Message-ID: <001401c68833$83f7c2c0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

Hi, Pat,

    Glad you enjoyed them.

    But I'm wondering why you felt you had to tell me four times (I got four
copies of your message).

    But no problem.

    I'll let everyone know when I've redone the video.  Might not be for a
few weeks as I've got a few important things on the horizon this summer.

    Tony, I think I'm going to use PBR in that video.  Thanks for letting me
do it.

    Regards,



                                                                Fred

----- Original Message -----
From: <bmorgan7459 at charter.net>
To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "Sansom Class of 1972"
<Rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 8:01 PM
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] Band Pictures Video


> FRED,  NOT BEING A BAND MEMBER BUT BEING A REBEL FOREVER,  I ENJOYED
SEEING THE PICTURES FROM THE REUNION.  I WAS INVITED TO ATTEND, AND I HAD
PROMISED TO BRING LYNN ALLISON BUT THAT DIDN'T HAPPEN.  MY WIFE AND I WENT
ON  VACATION THE WEEK AFTER THE BLOCK PARTY TO UNIVERSAL STUDIOS AND HAD A
GREAT TIME.  UNFORTUNATELY ON FRIDAY COMING HOME I FEEL AND BROKE MY RIGHT
LEG.  SORRY TO MISS WHAT LOOKED LIKE A WONDERFUL EVENT.  THANKS FOR POSTING
THE PHOTOS AND I HOPE YOU CONTINUE TO DO SO.
>
>
> PAT MORGAN
>
>
>
>
>
> --- Fred Atkinson <fatkinson at mishmash.com> wrote:
> > Folks,
> >
> >       I have a lot of revision to do yet, but I have a *very* rough
draft of a video I put together using Movie Maker and the shots I took at
the Band Reunion.
> >
> >       As for why I appeared in the first several slides?  Well, I
renamed the files to identify those persons in the pictures.  My name
happened to begin with 'A' and I put them in alphabetically by filename.
> >
> >       That will change as I reshuffle the order of the slides and add
more special effects.
> >
> >       I'd like your opinion of what I've done so far.  You can view it
at http://www.mishmash.com/esh_band_reunion/ .
> >
> >       Regards,
> >
> >
> >
> >                                                     Fred
> >
> > _______________________________________________
> > Rebels1972 mailing list
> > Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net



From tonynichols at bellsouth.net  Sun Jun  4 21:27:56 2006
From: tonynichols at bellsouth.net (Tony Nichols)
Date: Sun, 4 Jun 2006 21:27:56 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] Band Pictures Video
In-Reply-To: <20060604141735.5C8AE61D@resin07.mta.everyone.net>
Message-ID: <007d01c68847$a8019790$fc01a8c0@TonysM55>

Fred,

I like what you have.  Your pictures do a little better job than mine of
covering the reunion because you took pictures of the displays, some of the
tables, and a lot of the memorabilia.  I like your choice of music and I
sometimes wish that all the music recordings did not have noise in the
background.  However, that was a part of the football experience and some of
that noise can make the recordings more real to life.

Keep up the great work.

Tony

-----Original Message-----
From: Rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net
[mailto:Rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net] On Behalf Of Fred Atkinson
Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 4:18 PM
To: Sansom 1972
Subject: [Rebels1972] Band Pictures Video

Folks, 

      I have a lot of revision to do yet, but I have a *very* rough draft of
a video I put together using Movie Maker and the shots I took at the Band
Reunion.  

      As for why I appeared in the first several slides?  Well, I renamed
the files to identify those persons in the pictures.  My name happened to
begin with 'A' and I put them in alphabetically by filename.  

      That will change as I reshuffle the order of the slides and add more
special effects.  

      I'd like your opinion of what I've done so far.  You can view it at
http://www.mishmash.com/esh_band_reunion/ .  

      Regards, 



                                                    Fred 

_______________________________________________
Rebels1972 mailing list
Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net



From arpnurse at hotmail.com  Mon Jun  5 01:57:49 2006
From: arpnurse at hotmail.com (Bill Stonecypher)
Date: Mon, 05 Jun 2006 01:57:49 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] (no subject)
Message-ID: <BAY103-F14F1DE48DF9C55F2C0C760D3940@phx.gbl>

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From arpnurse at hotmail.com  Mon Jun  5 02:21:06 2006
From: arpnurse at hotmail.com (Bill Stonecypher)
Date: Mon, 05 Jun 2006 02:21:06 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] the Reunion
Message-ID: <BAY103-F644E1667D33F6F2314A8ED3940@phx.gbl>

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From tonynichols at bellsouth.net  Mon Jun  5 15:06:29 2006
From: tonynichols at bellsouth.net (Tony Nichols)
Date: Mon, 5 Jun 2006 15:06:29 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] Rebel Band DVDs
Message-ID: <003701c688db$894ce090$fa01a8c0@TonysM55>

Hey Rebs,
 
The DVDs are ready and will be shipping in the next few days.  If you
haven't had a chance to place an order, you may do so online at
http://www.audibleinc.com/rebels/DVDorders.htm
 

 
Tony Nichols
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From tech450 at gmail.com  Mon Jun  5 21:51:09 2006
From: tech450 at gmail.com (Rick Peek)
Date: Mon, 5 Jun 2006 21:51:09 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] Band Pictures Video
References: <20060604141735.5C8AE61D@resin07.mta.everyone.net>
Message-ID: <003301c68914$14926ed0$d58f3e44@p415>

You did a good job on the slideshow Fred. I'm sorry I couldn't make the 
reunion but the slideshow helps those who didn't get to be there enjoy it 
also.

Rick Peek


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
To: "Sansom 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 4:17 PM
Subject: [Rebels1972] Band Pictures Video


> Folks,
>
>      I have a lot of revision to do yet, but I have a *very* rough draft 
> of a video I put together using Movie Maker and the shots I took at the 
> Band Reunion.
>
>      As for why I appeared in the first several slides?  Well, I renamed 
> the files to identify those persons in the pictures.  My name happened to 
> begin with 'A' and I put them in alphabetically by filename.
>
>      That will change as I reshuffle the order of the slides and add more 
> special effects.
>
>      I'd like your opinion of what I've done so far.  You can view it at 
> http://www.mishmash.com/esh_band_reunion/ .
>
>      Regards,
>
>
>
>                                                    Fred
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net 



From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Tue Jun  6 07:47:36 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Tue, 6 Jun 2006 08:47:36 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] Bandwidth Limit
Message-ID: <006501c68967$6381b700$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

Folks,

    There was a bandwidth limit reached on my Website.  It was because I had
made an error when I sent the bandwidth limit.

    So if you tried to view the videos and found that you were unable to due
to the bandwidth limits (you'd get an error message on the screen), that has
been corrected.

    It should work fine now.

    Regards,




Fred



From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Tue Jun  6 07:49:11 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Tue, 6 Jun 2006 08:49:11 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] Bandwidth Limit
References: <006501c68967$6381b700$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
Message-ID: <008001c68967$9c5ac8f0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

    Oh, and that would have limited our messages, too.

    If you sent anything since last night and it didn't come through, please
resend it.  It should be fine now.




Fred

----- Original Message -----
From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
To: "Rebels 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
Sent: Tuesday, June 06, 2006 8:47 AM
Subject: [Rebels1972] Bandwidth Limit


> Folks,
>
>     There was a bandwidth limit reached on my Website.  It was because I
had
> made an error when I sent the bandwidth limit.
>
>     So if you tried to view the videos and found that you were unable to
due
> to the bandwidth limits (you'd get an error message on the screen), that
has
> been corrected.
>
>     It should work fine now.
>
>     Regards,
>
>
>
>
> Fred
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net



From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Tue Jun  6 07:50:15 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Tue, 6 Jun 2006 08:50:15 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] Fw: CDs
Message-ID: <008901c68967$c2910ac0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

Tony,

    No problem there.

    Go for it.

    Regards,



Fred

----- Original Message -----
From: "Tony Nichols" <tonynichols at bellsouth.net>
To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 6:12 PM
Subject: RE: CDs


> OK Fred,
>
> If it is ok with you, we will upload them to Clubphoto
>
> Tony
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Fred Atkinson [mailto:fatkinson at mishmash.com]
> Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 4:25 PM
> To: Susan Machen; TonyNichols at bellsouth.net
> Subject: CDs
>
> Susan and Tony,
>
>      I am putting the CDs in the mail to you this afternoon.
>
>      Keep an eye out for them.
>
>      Regards,
>
>
>
>                                          Fred




From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Tue Jun  6 07:51:11 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Tue, 6 Jun 2006 08:51:11 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] Fw: CDs
Message-ID: <009201c68967$e39753a0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

Susan,

    You know that you are all more than welcome.  I'm glad to do it.

    Regards,


                                                            Fred

----- Original Message -----
From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 7:14 PM
Subject: Re: CDs


> thanks so much for everything Fred.
> Susan
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> To: "Susan Machen" <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>; <TonyNichols at bellsouth.net>
> Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 4:24 PM
> Subject: CDs
>
>
> > Susan and Tony,
> >
> >     I am putting the CDs in the mail to you this afternoon.
> >
> >     Keep an eye out for them.
> >
> >     Regards,
> >
> >
> >
> >                                         Fred



From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Tue Jun  6 07:52:11 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Tue, 6 Jun 2006 08:52:11 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] Fw:  Band Pictures Video
Message-ID: <009b01c68968$078f1720$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

Rick,

    I'm glad you enjoyed it.

    Regards,



Fred

----- Original Message -----
From: "Rick Peek" <tech450 at gmail.com>
To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "Sansom Class of 1972"
<Rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
Sent: Monday, June 05, 2006 10:51 PM
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] Band Pictures Video


> You did a good job on the slideshow Fred. I'm sorry I couldn't make the
> reunion but the slideshow helps those who didn't get to be there enjoy it
> also.
>
> Rick Peek
>
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> To: "Sansom 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 4:17 PM
> Subject: [Rebels1972] Band Pictures Video
>
>
> > Folks,
> >
> >      I have a lot of revision to do yet, but I have a *very* rough draft
> > of a video I put together using Movie Maker and the shots I took at the
> > Band Reunion.
> >
> >      As for why I appeared in the first several slides?  Well, I renamed
> > the files to identify those persons in the pictures.  My name happened
to
> > begin with 'A' and I put them in alphabetically by filename.
> >
> >      That will change as I reshuffle the order of the slides and add
more
> > special effects.
> >
> >      I'd like your opinion of what I've done so far.  You can view it at
> > http://www.mishmash.com/esh_band_reunion/ .
> >
> >      Regards,
> >
> >
> >
> >                                                    Fred
> >
> > _______________________________________________
> > Rebels1972 mailing list
> > Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net



From bmorgan7459 at charter.net  Wed Jun  7 18:00:12 2006
From: bmorgan7459 at charter.net (bmorgan7459@charter.net)
Date: Wed, 7 Jun 2006 16:00:12 -0700
Subject: [Rebels1972] copies
Message-ID: <306985329.1149721212866.JavaMail.root@fepweb14>

FRED

I HOPE THAT WAS ENOUGH COPIES. LOL.  NO CLUE WHY SO MANY SENT.  I DID HAVE A PROBLEM WHEN I SNET THE MAIL.  IF YOU NEED MORE JUST REPLY IN TRIPLICATE AND I WILL TO COMPLY  HA HA LOL


PAT







--- Fred Atkinson <fatkinson at mishmash.com> wrote: 
> Hi, Pat,
> 
>     Glad you enjoyed them.
> 
>     But I'm wondering why you felt you had to tell me four times (I got four
> copies of your message).
> 
>     But no problem.
> 
>     I'll let everyone know when I've redone the video.  Might not be for a
> few weeks as I've got a few important things on the horizon this summer.
> 
>     Tony, I think I'm going to use PBR in that video.  Thanks for letting me
> do it.
> 
>     Regards,
> 
> 
> 
>                                                                 Fred
> 
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: <bmorgan7459 at charter.net>
> To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "Sansom Class of 1972"
> <Rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 8:01 PM
> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] Band Pictures Video
> 
> 
> > FRED,  NOT BEING A BAND MEMBER BUT BEING A REBEL FOREVER,  I ENJOYED
> SEEING THE PICTURES FROM THE REUNION.  I WAS INVITED TO ATTEND, AND I HAD
> PROMISED TO BRING LYNN ALLISON BUT THAT DIDN'T HAPPEN.  MY WIFE AND I WENT
> ON  VACATION THE WEEK AFTER THE BLOCK PARTY TO UNIVERSAL STUDIOS AND HAD A
> GREAT TIME.  UNFORTUNATELY ON FRIDAY COMING HOME I FEEL AND BROKE MY RIGHT
> LEG.  SORRY TO MISS WHAT LOOKED LIKE A WONDERFUL EVENT.  THANKS FOR POSTING
> THE PHOTOS AND I HOPE YOU CONTINUE TO DO SO.
> >
> >
> > PAT MORGAN
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > --- Fred Atkinson <fatkinson at mishmash.com> wrote:
> > > Folks,
> > >
> > >       I have a lot of revision to do yet, but I have a *very* rough
> draft of a video I put together using Movie Maker and the shots I took at
> the Band Reunion.
> > >
> > >       As for why I appeared in the first several slides?  Well, I
> renamed the files to identify those persons in the pictures.  My name
> happened to begin with 'A' and I put them in alphabetically by filename.
> > >
> > >       That will change as I reshuffle the order of the slides and add
> more special effects.
> > >
> > >       I'd like your opinion of what I've done so far.  You can view it
> at http://www.mishmash.com/esh_band_reunion/ .
> > >
> > >       Regards,
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >                                                     Fred
> > >
> > > _______________________________________________
> > > Rebels1972 mailing list
> > > Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> > > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> >
> > _______________________________________________
> > Rebels1972 mailing list
> > Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net


From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Wed Jun  7 18:20:21 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081@bellsouth.net)
Date: Wed, 7 Jun 2006 18:20:21 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] copies
References: <306985329.1149721212866.JavaMail.root@fepweb14>
Message-ID: <008701c68a89$5f812690$6101a8c0@Lauren>

Pat,
Beth Linn Wilson and I went to see Don Martin today and he had a wreck on 
his Harley. Did you know about this?
It happened Memorial Day weekend. He had to have surgery with several pins 
and a plate inserted. It took them a couple of days and surgeons before they 
could find anyone to do the surgery. It WAS a holiday weekend(sad fact)

According to his daughter, they even went to B'ham and couldn't get any help 
there. They ended up back in Gadsden.

So how is your broken leg???  You old folks are really going to have to take 
it easy!
Susan


----- Original Message ----- 
From: <bmorgan7459 at charter.net>
To: "Sansom Class of 1972" <Rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
Cc: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
Sent: Wednesday, June 07, 2006 6:00 PM
Subject: [Rebels1972] copies


> FRED
>
> I HOPE THAT WAS ENOUGH COPIES. LOL.  NO CLUE WHY SO MANY SENT.  I DID HAVE 
> A PROBLEM WHEN I SNET THE MAIL.  IF YOU NEED MORE JUST REPLY IN TRIPLICATE 
> AND I WILL TO COMPLY  HA HA LOL
>
>
> PAT
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> --- Fred Atkinson <fatkinson at mishmash.com> wrote:
>> Hi, Pat,
>>
>>     Glad you enjoyed them.
>>
>>     But I'm wondering why you felt you had to tell me four times (I got 
>> four
>> copies of your message).
>>
>>     But no problem.
>>
>>     I'll let everyone know when I've redone the video.  Might not be for 
>> a
>> few weeks as I've got a few important things on the horizon this summer.
>>
>>     Tony, I think I'm going to use PBR in that video.  Thanks for letting 
>> me
>> do it.
>>
>>     Regards,
>>
>>
>>
>>                                                                 Fred
>>
>> ----- Original Message -----
>> From: <bmorgan7459 at charter.net>
>> To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "Sansom Class of 1972"
>> <Rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 8:01 PM
>> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] Band Pictures Video
>>
>>
>> > FRED,  NOT BEING A BAND MEMBER BUT BEING A REBEL FOREVER,  I ENJOYED
>> SEEING THE PICTURES FROM THE REUNION.  I WAS INVITED TO ATTEND, AND I HAD
>> PROMISED TO BRING LYNN ALLISON BUT THAT DIDN'T HAPPEN.  MY WIFE AND I 
>> WENT
>> ON  VACATION THE WEEK AFTER THE BLOCK PARTY TO UNIVERSAL STUDIOS AND HAD 
>> A
>> GREAT TIME.  UNFORTUNATELY ON FRIDAY COMING HOME I FEEL AND BROKE MY 
>> RIGHT
>> LEG.  SORRY TO MISS WHAT LOOKED LIKE A WONDERFUL EVENT.  THANKS FOR 
>> POSTING
>> THE PHOTOS AND I HOPE YOU CONTINUE TO DO SO.
>> >
>> >
>> > PAT MORGAN
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> > --- Fred Atkinson <fatkinson at mishmash.com> wrote:
>> > > Folks,
>> > >
>> > >       I have a lot of revision to do yet, but I have a *very* rough
>> draft of a video I put together using Movie Maker and the shots I took at
>> the Band Reunion.
>> > >
>> > >       As for why I appeared in the first several slides?  Well, I
>> renamed the files to identify those persons in the pictures.  My name
>> happened to begin with 'A' and I put them in alphabetically by filename.
>> > >
>> > >       That will change as I reshuffle the order of the slides and add
>> more special effects.
>> > >
>> > >       I'd like your opinion of what I've done so far.  You can view 
>> > > it
>> at http://www.mishmash.com/esh_band_reunion/ .
>> > >
>> > >       Regards,
>> > >
>> > >
>> > >
>> > >                                                     Fred
>> > >
>> > > _______________________________________________
>> > > Rebels1972 mailing list
>> > > Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> > > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >
>> > _______________________________________________
>> > Rebels1972 mailing list
>> > Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net 




From Jdrtiger at aol.com  Wed Jun  7 21:13:11 2006
From: Jdrtiger at aol.com (Jdrtiger@aol.com)
Date: Wed, 7 Jun 2006 22:13:11 EDT
Subject: [Rebels1972] Don Martin
Message-ID: <3d7.4035f3c.31b8e1b7@aol.com>

Susan: Tell Don that he is in my prayers!  John  Dale
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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Wed Jun  7 21:15:57 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Wed, 7 Jun 2006 22:15:57 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] Don Martin
References: <3d7.4035f3c.31b8e1b7@aol.com>
Message-ID: <001801c68aa1$7abe7df0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

    Mine, too.  



                                                                        Fred 
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
  To: Rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
  Sent: Wednesday, June 07, 2006 10:13 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] Don Martin


  Susan: Tell Don that he is in my prayers!  John Dale


------------------------------------------------------------------------------


  _______________________________________________
  Rebels1972 mailing list
  Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
  http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
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From chuckandkelley at bellsouth.net  Thu Jun  8 06:44:10 2006
From: chuckandkelley at bellsouth.net (Thompson Family)
Date: Thu, 8 Jun 2006 06:44:10 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] copies
In-Reply-To: <306985329.1149721212866.JavaMail.root@fepweb14>
Message-ID: <001e01c68af0$dbce1ca0$6001a8c0@chuckp330>

Pat,  I've lost touch with Lynn Allison's recovery.  Any news?  Chuck

-----Original Message-----
From: Rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net
[mailto:Rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net] On Behalf Of
bmorgan7459 at charter.net
Sent: Wednesday, June 07, 2006 6:00 PM
To: Sansom Class of 1972
Cc: Fred Atkinson
Subject: [Rebels1972] copies

FRED

I HOPE THAT WAS ENOUGH COPIES. LOL.  NO CLUE WHY SO MANY SENT.  I DID HAVE A
PROBLEM WHEN I SNET THE MAIL.  IF YOU NEED MORE JUST REPLY IN TRIPLICATE AND
I WILL TO COMPLY  HA HA LOL


PAT







--- Fred Atkinson <fatkinson at mishmash.com> wrote: 
> Hi, Pat,
> 
>     Glad you enjoyed them.
> 
>     But I'm wondering why you felt you had to tell me four times (I got
four
> copies of your message).
> 
>     But no problem.
> 
>     I'll let everyone know when I've redone the video.  Might not be for a
> few weeks as I've got a few important things on the horizon this summer.
> 
>     Tony, I think I'm going to use PBR in that video.  Thanks for letting
me
> do it.
> 
>     Regards,
> 
> 
> 
>                                                                 Fred
> 
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: <bmorgan7459 at charter.net>
> To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "Sansom Class of 1972"
> <Rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 8:01 PM
> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] Band Pictures Video
> 
> 
> > FRED,  NOT BEING A BAND MEMBER BUT BEING A REBEL FOREVER,  I ENJOYED
> SEEING THE PICTURES FROM THE REUNION.  I WAS INVITED TO ATTEND, AND I HAD
> PROMISED TO BRING LYNN ALLISON BUT THAT DIDN'T HAPPEN.  MY WIFE AND I WENT
> ON  VACATION THE WEEK AFTER THE BLOCK PARTY TO UNIVERSAL STUDIOS AND HAD A
> GREAT TIME.  UNFORTUNATELY ON FRIDAY COMING HOME I FEEL AND BROKE MY RIGHT
> LEG.  SORRY TO MISS WHAT LOOKED LIKE A WONDERFUL EVENT.  THANKS FOR
POSTING
> THE PHOTOS AND I HOPE YOU CONTINUE TO DO SO.
> >
> >
> > PAT MORGAN
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > --- Fred Atkinson <fatkinson at mishmash.com> wrote:
> > > Folks,
> > >
> > >       I have a lot of revision to do yet, but I have a *very* rough
> draft of a video I put together using Movie Maker and the shots I took at
> the Band Reunion.
> > >
> > >       As for why I appeared in the first several slides?  Well, I
> renamed the files to identify those persons in the pictures.  My name
> happened to begin with 'A' and I put them in alphabetically by filename.
> > >
> > >       That will change as I reshuffle the order of the slides and add
> more special effects.
> > >
> > >       I'd like your opinion of what I've done so far.  You can view it
> at http://www.mishmash.com/esh_band_reunion/ .
> > >
> > >       Regards,
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >                                                     Fred
> > >
> > > _______________________________________________
> > > Rebels1972 mailing list
> > > Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> > > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> >
> > _______________________________________________
> > Rebels1972 mailing list
> > Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net

_______________________________________________
Rebels1972 mailing list
Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net



From lenneal at gcs.k12.al.us  Thu Jun  8 11:24:57 2006
From: lenneal at gcs.k12.al.us (Lenora Neal)
Date: Thu, 8 Jun 2006 11:24:57 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] copies
References: <306985329.1149721212866.JavaMail.root@fepweb14>
	<008701c68a89$5f812690$6101a8c0@Lauren>
Message-ID: <001401c68b18$15089dc0$28010e0a@lenneal>

Susan,
I will need to be taken off the e-mail list for a while.  My last day at 
Sansom was Tuesday and I will not be set up in the new school until July.  I 
will let you know when I am back up and running.  I think John and I are 
receiving at home namesneal at bellsouth.net.  I don't check that very often 
but I will now so if we are not on that address please add it.  Thanks to 
all for the pictures and videos.
Great Job!!!
Lenora
----- Original Message ----- 
From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
To: "Sansom Class of 1972" <Rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
Sent: Wednesday, June 07, 2006 6:20 PM
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] copies


> Pat,
> Beth Linn Wilson and I went to see Don Martin today and he had a wreck on
> his Harley. Did you know about this?
> It happened Memorial Day weekend. He had to have surgery with several pins
> and a plate inserted. It took them a couple of days and surgeons before 
> they
> could find anyone to do the surgery. It WAS a holiday weekend(sad fact)
>
> According to his daughter, they even went to B'ham and couldn't get any 
> help
> there. They ended up back in Gadsden.
>
> So how is your broken leg???  You old folks are really going to have to 
> take
> it easy!
> Susan
>
>
> ----- Original Message ----- 
> From: <bmorgan7459 at charter.net>
> To: "Sansom Class of 1972" <Rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> Cc: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> Sent: Wednesday, June 07, 2006 6:00 PM
> Subject: [Rebels1972] copies
>
>
>> FRED
>>
>> I HOPE THAT WAS ENOUGH COPIES. LOL.  NO CLUE WHY SO MANY SENT.  I DID 
>> HAVE
>> A PROBLEM WHEN I SNET THE MAIL.  IF YOU NEED MORE JUST REPLY IN 
>> TRIPLICATE
>> AND I WILL TO COMPLY  HA HA LOL
>>
>>
>> PAT
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> --- Fred Atkinson <fatkinson at mishmash.com> wrote:
>>> Hi, Pat,
>>>
>>>     Glad you enjoyed them.
>>>
>>>     But I'm wondering why you felt you had to tell me four times (I got
>>> four
>>> copies of your message).
>>>
>>>     But no problem.
>>>
>>>     I'll let everyone know when I've redone the video.  Might not be for
>>> a
>>> few weeks as I've got a few important things on the horizon this summer.
>>>
>>>     Tony, I think I'm going to use PBR in that video.  Thanks for 
>>> letting
>>> me
>>> do it.
>>>
>>>     Regards,
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>                                                                 Fred
>>>
>>> ----- Original Message -----
>>> From: <bmorgan7459 at charter.net>
>>> To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "Sansom Class of 1972"
>>> <Rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>>> Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 8:01 PM
>>> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] Band Pictures Video
>>>
>>>
>>> > FRED,  NOT BEING A BAND MEMBER BUT BEING A REBEL FOREVER,  I ENJOYED
>>> SEEING THE PICTURES FROM THE REUNION.  I WAS INVITED TO ATTEND, AND I 
>>> HAD
>>> PROMISED TO BRING LYNN ALLISON BUT THAT DIDN'T HAPPEN.  MY WIFE AND I
>>> WENT
>>> ON  VACATION THE WEEK AFTER THE BLOCK PARTY TO UNIVERSAL STUDIOS AND HAD
>>> A
>>> GREAT TIME.  UNFORTUNATELY ON FRIDAY COMING HOME I FEEL AND BROKE MY
>>> RIGHT
>>> LEG.  SORRY TO MISS WHAT LOOKED LIKE A WONDERFUL EVENT.  THANKS FOR
>>> POSTING
>>> THE PHOTOS AND I HOPE YOU CONTINUE TO DO SO.
>>> >
>>> >
>>> > PAT MORGAN
>>> >
>>> >
>>> >
>>> >
>>> >
>>> > --- Fred Atkinson <fatkinson at mishmash.com> wrote:
>>> > > Folks,
>>> > >
>>> > >       I have a lot of revision to do yet, but I have a *very* rough
>>> draft of a video I put together using Movie Maker and the shots I took 
>>> at
>>> the Band Reunion.
>>> > >
>>> > >       As for why I appeared in the first several slides?  Well, I
>>> renamed the files to identify those persons in the pictures.  My name
>>> happened to begin with 'A' and I put them in alphabetically by filename.
>>> > >
>>> > >       That will change as I reshuffle the order of the slides and 
>>> > > add
>>> more special effects.
>>> > >
>>> > >       I'd like your opinion of what I've done so far.  You can view
>>> > > it
>>> at http://www.mishmash.com/esh_band_reunion/ .
>>> > >
>>> > >       Regards,
>>> > >
>>> > >
>>> > >
>>> > >                                                     Fred
>>> > >
>>> > > _______________________________________________
>>> > > Rebels1972 mailing list
>>> > > Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>>> > > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>>> >
>>> > _______________________________________________
>>> > Rebels1972 mailing list
>>> > Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>>> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>>>
>>>
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>
> -- 
> This message has been scanned for viruses and
> dangerous content by MailScanner, and is
> believed to be clean.
> 



From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Fri Jun  9 10:41:07 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081@bellsouth.net)
Date: Fri, 9 Jun 2006 10:41:07 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972]  Rebel Band DVDs
References: <003701c688db$894ce090$fa01a8c0@TonysM55>
Message-ID: <010901c68bdb$20b1a6d0$6101a8c0@Lauren>

I just wanted you guys to know that I received my set yesterday and have spent the morning watching, looking, listening and crying.  If you haven't already ordered a set, take time and do so.
Our Rebel Band memories are captured in this set.
Tony has packaged these more professionally than any I have ever seen.

They are great!!  Kudos to you Tony...
Susan

  Hey Rebs,

  The DVDs are ready and will be shipping in the next few days.  If you haven't had a chance to place an order, you may do so online at http://www.audibleinc.com/rebels/DVDorders.htm



  Tony Nichols


------------------------------------------------------------------------------


  _______________________________________________
  Rebels1972 mailing list
  Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
  http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
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From bmorgan7459 at charter.net  Sat Jun 10 16:02:47 2006
From: bmorgan7459 at charter.net (bmorgan7459 at charter.net)
Date: Sat, 10 Jun 2006 14:02:47 -0700
Subject: [Rebels1972] copies
Message-ID: <1979818952.1149973367447.JavaMail.root@fepweb03>

-


CHUCK

GREAT TO HERE FROM YOU.  THE LAST TIME I TALKED TO LYNN WAS THE NIGHT OF THE BLOCK PARTY.  MY WIFE AND I WENT BY THE HOSPITAL ON OUR WAY HOME TO BHAM.  WE WAITED TILL 9 O CLOCK TO VISIT ICU.  MUCH TO OUR SURPRISE HE HAD BEEN MOVED TO A REGULAR ROOM.  HE WAS DOING GREAT.  HIS MD S SAID HE WAS A MIRACLE, THEY DIDNT THINK HE WOULD MAKE IT THRU THE SURGERY.  BUT FOR ONE TIME IN HIS LIFE, LYNN HAD FOLLOWED THE MD'S ORDERS.   HE WAS TOLD TO WALK AS MUCH POSSIBLE BEFORE THE SURGERY,  AND I GUESS HE DID.  HIS RIGHT LUNG WAS STRONG ENOUGH TO KEEP HIM ALIVE.  WE LEFT ON VACATION MONDAY AFTER THE BLOCK PARTY NAD RETURNED THE NEXT SATURDAY.  I CALLED HIS MOTHERS HOUSE BUT HE WAS     OUT WALKING.  HE NEVER CALLED ME BACK.  WHEN I CALLED ON WEDNESDAY THE PHONE HAD BEEN DISCONNECTED.  HIS MOTHER WAS MOVING IN WITH HER OTHER SON MICHAEL IN HEFLIN AND LYNN WAS GOING WITH HER UNTIL HIS SOCIAL SECURITY STARTED IN AUGUST.   HE NEVER CALLED ME BACK. HE WAS MOVING BACK TO GADSDEN AS SOON AS HIS SS BENEFITS STARTED.  THATS ALL I KNOW.  YOU MIGHT FIND HIS BROTHERS # INHEFLIN, MICHAEL FERGUSON.  

PAT








--- Thompson Family <chuckandkelley at bellsouth.net> wrote: 
> Pat,  I've lost touch with Lynn Allison's recovery.  Any news?  Chuck
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net
> [mailto:Rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net] On Behalf Of
> bmorgan7459 at charter.net
> Sent: Wednesday, June 07, 2006 6:00 PM
> To: Sansom Class of 1972
> Cc: Fred Atkinson
> Subject: [Rebels1972] copies
> 
> FRED
> 
> I HOPE THAT WAS ENOUGH COPIES. LOL.  NO CLUE WHY SO MANY SENT.  I DID HAVE A
> PROBLEM WHEN I SNET THE MAIL.  IF YOU NEED MORE JUST REPLY IN TRIPLICATE AND
> I WILL TO COMPLY  HA HA LOL
> 
> 
> PAT
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> --- Fred Atkinson <fatkinson at mishmash.com> wrote: 
> > Hi, Pat,
> > 
> >     Glad you enjoyed them.
> > 
> >     But I'm wondering why you felt you had to tell me four times (I got
> four
> > copies of your message).
> > 
> >     But no problem.
> > 
> >     I'll let everyone know when I've redone the video.  Might not be for a
> > few weeks as I've got a few important things on the horizon this summer.
> > 
> >     Tony, I think I'm going to use PBR in that video.  Thanks for letting
> me
> > do it.
> > 
> >     Regards,
> > 
> > 
> > 
> >                                                                 Fred
> > 
> > ----- Original Message -----
> > From: <bmorgan7459 at charter.net>
> > To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "Sansom Class of 1972"
> > <Rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> > Sent: Sunday, June 04, 2006 8:01 PM
> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] Band Pictures Video
> > 
> > 
> > > FRED,  NOT BEING A BAND MEMBER BUT BEING A REBEL FOREVER,  I ENJOYED
> > SEEING THE PICTURES FROM THE REUNION.  I WAS INVITED TO ATTEND, AND I HAD
> > PROMISED TO BRING LYNN ALLISON BUT THAT DIDN'T HAPPEN.  MY WIFE AND I WENT
> > ON  VACATION THE WEEK AFTER THE BLOCK PARTY TO UNIVERSAL STUDIOS AND HAD A
> > GREAT TIME.  UNFORTUNATELY ON FRIDAY COMING HOME I FEEL AND BROKE MY RIGHT
> > LEG.  SORRY TO MISS WHAT LOOKED LIKE A WONDERFUL EVENT.  THANKS FOR
> POSTING
> > THE PHOTOS AND I HOPE YOU CONTINUE TO DO SO.
> > >
> > >
> > > PAT MORGAN
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > --- Fred Atkinson <fatkinson at mishmash.com> wrote:
> > > > Folks,
> > > >
> > > >       I have a lot of revision to do yet, but I have a *very* rough
> > draft of a video I put together using Movie Maker and the shots I took at
> > the Band Reunion.
> > > >
> > > >       As for why I appeared in the first several slides?  Well, I
> > renamed the files to identify those persons in the pictures.  My name
> > happened to begin with 'A' and I put them in alphabetically by filename.
> > > >
> > > >       That will change as I reshuffle the order of the slides and add
> > more special effects.
> > > >
> > > >       I'd like your opinion of what I've done so far.  You can view it
> > at http://www.mishmash.com/esh_band_reunion/ .
> > > >
> > > >       Regards,
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >
> > > >                                                     Fred
> > > >
> > > > _______________________________________________
> > > > Rebels1972 mailing list
> > > > Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> > > > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> > >
> > > _______________________________________________
> > > Rebels1972 mailing list
> > > Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> > > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> > 
> > 
> > _______________________________________________
> > Rebels1972 mailing list
> > Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> 
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net


From arpnurse at hotmail.com  Tue Jun 13 02:16:09 2006
From: arpnurse at hotmail.com (Bill Stonecypher)
Date: Tue, 13 Jun 2006 02:16:09 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] Rebel Band DVDs
In-Reply-To: <010901c68bdb$20b1a6d0$6101a8c0@Lauren>
Message-ID: <BAY103-F2685ACC1786B87D8FA3205D38C0@phx.gbl>

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From arpnurse at hotmail.com  Tue Jun 13 03:34:54 2006
From: arpnurse at hotmail.com (Bill Stonecypher)
Date: Tue, 13 Jun 2006 03:34:54 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] trip to Gadsden
Message-ID: <BAY103-F4019859CDD06D60657330ED38C0@phx.gbl>

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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Tue Jun 13 07:10:14 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Tue, 13 Jun 2006 08:10:14 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] Fw:  FUNNY AND TRUE!
Message-ID: <017401c68ee2$545afcc0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>


Charles Atchley sent me this.  I thought I'd share it with all of you.  Some of you may have already gotten it from him.  



                                                                                             Fred 
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



      TO ALL THE KIDS 

      WHO WERE BORN 

      IN THE  1930's 40's, 50's, 60's and 70's !! 

       

      First, we survived being born to mothers who smoked and/or drank while they carried us. 

      They took aspirin, ate blue cheese dressing, tuna from a can, and didn't get tested for diabetes.  

      Then after that trauma, our baby cribs were covered with bright colored lead-based paints.  

      We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, doors or cabinets and when we rode our bikes, we had no helmets, not to mention, the risks we took hitchhiking . 

      As children, we would ride in cars with no seat belts or air bags. 

      Riding in the back of a pick up on a warm day was always a special treat. 

      We drank water from the garden hose and NOT from a bottle. 

      We shared one soft drink with four friends, from one bottle and NO ONE actually died from this. 

      We ate cupcakes, white bread and real butter and drank soda pop with sugar in it, but we weren't overweight because...... 

      WE WERE ALWAYS OUTSIDE PLAYING!! 

      We would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back when the streetlights came on. 

      No one was able to reach us all day. And we were O.K. 

      We would spend hours building our go-carts out of scraps and then ride down the hill, only to find out we forgot the brakes. After running into the bushes a few times, we learned to solve the problem.  

      We did not have Playstations, Nintendo's, X-boxes, no video games at all, no 99 channels on cable, no video tape movies, no surround sound, no cell phones, no personal computers, no Internet or Internet chat rooms..........WE HAD LIVING, BREATHING FRIENDS and we went outside and found them! 

      We fell out of trees, got cut, broke bones and teeth and there were no  lawsuits from these accidents. 

      We ate worms and mud pies made from dirt, and the worms did not live in us forever. 

      We were given BB guns for our 10th birthdays,  made up games with sticks and tennis balls and although we were told it would happen, we did not put out very many eyes. 

      We rode bikes or walked to a friend's house and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just yelled for them!   

      Little League had tryouts and not everyone made the team. Those who didn't had to learn to deal with disappointment. Imagine that!! 

      The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke the law was unheard of. They actually sided with the law! 

      This generation has produced some of the best risk!-takers, problem solvers and inventors ever! 

      The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas. 

      We had freedom, failure, success and responsibility, and we learned  

      HOW TO  DEAL WITH IT ALL! 
      And YOU are one of them! 

       CONGRATULATIONS! 

      You might want to share this with others who have had the luck to grow up as kids, before the lawyers and the government regulated our lives for our own good. 

      and while you are at it, forward it to your kids so they will know how brave their parents were. 

      Kind of makes you want to run through the house with scissors, doesn't it?! 

      PS -The big type is because your eyes are shot at your age.


     
             
     



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


_______________________________________________
Mishmash mailing list
Mishmash at mishmash.net
http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/mishmash_mishmash.net
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From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Tue Jun 13 09:56:22 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Tue, 13 Jun 2006 09:56:22 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] sympathy
Message-ID: <003c01c68ef9$89a5c060$6101a8c0@Lauren>

Rebels,

Please keep our '72 classmate Vickie Mynatt/ family in your thoughts and prayers.  Her son Jody Camp was killed in a motorcycle accident yesterday. He was 27 years old.

thanks,
Susan
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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Wed Jun 14 20:26:52 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Wed, 14 Jun 2006 21:26:52 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] Article
Message-ID: <000c01c6901a$c83a9630$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

Folks,

    I wrote an article I'd like to share with you and I'd like to get your
feedback on it.

    It will follow on an email in just a few more minutes.

    Regards,



                                                                    Fred



From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Wed Jun 14 20:52:19 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Wed, 14 Jun 2006 21:52:19 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] Economic Slavery on the Highways
Message-ID: <005201c6901e$5679a870$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

    I'd like to share some ideas about some of the people who make this
country great.  They are often the most unappreciated people in the world.

    We take them so much for granted despite all that they do.  Everyone
seems to think that the goods on the shelf at your store just appear there
magically.  The materials to build your home, school, or workplace were not
always there.  The fuel that makes your car run does not just appear at the
pump.  And there are many other material goods we rely on to maintain our
standard of living.

    There are thousands of good Americans that transport these materials to
us.  They aren't heralded and they get no fanfare.  Man live a lifestyle of
separation from their families and work an incredible number of hours.  It
is their plight I wish to discuss.

    When the economy went sour at the end of 2001, I spoke with a recruiter
for a national trucking company, she arranged for me to travel to Memphis,
Tennessee and attend a three week school that would help me get a Class A
commercial driver's license with all the required endorsements and the
training required for the company to hire me as an over the road truck
driver.  The cost of attending the truck school was over five thousand
dollars and I was expected to be responsible for the cost myself.  I was not
compensated in any way for the time I spent in school.

    I went to truck driving school with a lot of people from different parts
of the country and different backgrounds.  After we completed our first week
in school, we passed our written exams to get our learner's permits and our
medical certificates, which were required to operate the big eighteen
wheelers.

    The next week was range training.  We learned all manner of backing.
Backing was not like backing a car.  It required a whole different twist.
To back a truck to the right one must turn the wheel to the left until the
truck jacks to the right.  Then you turn the wheel to the right to follow
the trailer and keep it on the right path.  Even backing in a straight line
was difficult.  But we learned our required backing skills during the second
week and went on for the road training.

    We drove all over western Tennessee, eastern Arkansas, and northern
Mississippi.  To the end of the third week we completed our training and
passed our road tests.  When we returned to school the following week, we
were taken to the DMV to get our Class A commercial driver's licenses and
late we were assigned to a driver who would train us while we were actually
transporting goods all over the country.  We were paid only fifty dollars
per day while we trained regardless of the miles driven.  Since a driver
often drives between four and five hundred miles per shift, that amounts to
as little as ten cents per mile or less.

    These three weeks of driver training was done with no compensation and a
legal requirement that you repay the company for the training.  Of course,
they pro-rated the cost over two years and made the payments for your as
long as you worked for them.  But if you found it necessary to leave, you
were on the hook for the pro-rated part of the money you owe.  This makes it
difficult to leave if you are unhappy with the working situation.

    After I completed the training with my instructor, I began to learn
things I never knew.  I knew that truck drivers were typically away from
home for months at a time.  I never knew that they are not covered by the
wage and hour laws (overtime?  What is that?).  Truck drivers don't get
overtime even though they constantly work in excess of sixty hours per week.
They get paid for the miles they drive and (on occasion) for loading or
unloading a truck, not for the time they work.

    Many responsibilities that truck drivers perform are without any
compensation.  The Department of Transportation requires that they perform a
complete and thorough pre-trip safety inspection each day, which takes
fifteen minutes of their time.  They receive no compensation for their time
to perform this.  When they weigh and balance a truck to make sure the load
is legal on the highway, they receive no compensation for that, either.

    When they hitch or unhitch a trailer, they receive no compensation for
that task.  When a shipper or receiver makes them stand around and wait for
their load to be loaded or unloaded from a trailer, the driver receives no
compensation for the time he is there idle while the shipper or receiver
focuses on other things (unless he is paid for loading or unloading, which
isn't often).

    And the driver is never guaranteed to get a shipment to move.  There
were a number of times where I sat at a truck stop in a strange city with no
load.  Our company compensated us forty dollars per day if they had no load
for us.  Imagine that, only forty dollars for a single day of your life (and
not all drivers even get that) away from your family, community, and
friends.  And the per mile rates for new drivers are very low.  One I was
asked to pick up a trailer, weigh it to make sure it was legally balanced,
and transport it to the nearest company terminal for
reassignment to another driver.  For my several hours of work, I received
approximately twelve dollars for my efforts.  It amounted to less than
minimum wage.

    Truck drivers get no respect.  Once when I was at a truckstop near the
Canadian border in Maine, a driver told me that his CB handle was 'Caucasian
scumbag'.  He said that he chose that handle because of what his father
(also a truck driver) told him.  Truck driving is an honorable profession,
but you will never get any respect.  Sadly, I found myself agreeing with
him.  A few examples follow.

    Once I made a delivery at a warehouse.  After 'bumping the dock' (an
expression used that means you have parked the trailer at the loading dock
so it can be loaded or unloaded), I found a door marked 'driver's entrance'.
When I stepped inside the door, I found myself standing inside of a cage
(subhuman treatment).

    I once made a pickup at a major customer.  As my hours were almost used
up when I made the pickup, I parked the truck outside the front gate in an
area where truckers were allowed to park and get the required time in the
sleeper before they were allowed to drive again.  When I walked back to the
gate requesting to use the restroom, they refused saying that driver's
weren't allowed to use the restrooms in the facility.  I had to go and
relieve myself in the middle of an open field because there was no other
place provided for the drivers.

    People often feel anger towards truck drivers because of the manner in
which they drive on the open highways.  I did not engage in such driving and
I did not approve of those who did.  But think of what it cost me.  Slowing
down reduced the amount of money I made.  Remember that many of the lesser
experienced drivers are not all that well paid (contrary to the stories
about how well truck drivers are paid).  When you are paid by the mile at
such a rate as twenty-seven cents a mile and only allowed to drive for a
limited number of hours, making more money requires that you floor it.  When
a driver is caught in a traffic jam, he is sitting there burning his driving
hours and getting no compensation for it.  He cannot drive extra hours to
make up for it or the Department of Transportation will fine him when they
audit his driving logbook.  To that end, some drivers falsify their logbook
to drive more miles.  This means that they are driving over the number of
hours it is safe for a person's body to be alert enough to handle an
eighty-thousand pound multi-vehicle truck and creates an additional hazard.

    Truck drivers would like to see that changed, but it's difficult.  'Over
the road' drivers are away from home for months at a time.  Because of that
they don't get to vote.  Politicians look at those statistics and they
realize that spending time helping truck drivers does not yield them
additional votes.  This does not motivate the politicians to make things any
easier for them.  Once, a driver told me that he had tried to get an
absentee ballot.  He was asked where he'd be on election day.  He told them
he had no way of knowing because he was sent to different places often on
only a few hours notice.  Because he couldn't tell them where he'd be on
election day, they denied him an absentee ballot.

    As long as we continue to pay our over the road drivers 'by the mile'
instead of by the hour and pay them for the things truck drivers do for no
compensation every day, the way many truck drivers operate their vehicles is
not going to change.  There is significant legislative reform needed but no
political incentive to perform it.  And many of these good people continue
to suffer while making a living to support their families (with whom they
are able to spend very little time with).  The next time you enjoy your
breakfast, buy nice new clothes at the store, fill up your tank with
gasoline, or partake of any number of other countless things, you should
remember that truck drivers brought those materials to you.

    Imagine if the trucks stopped rolling for a week.  We'd experience gas
shortages, food shortages, and have to learn to do without many things.

    When a driver is involved in a traffic accident, it isn't whether or not
he is at fault that matters.  You may have run into him but the question is
could he have done something to prevent it from happening?  Even if he was
not at fault in the accident, it often is still reported on his driving
record as 'preventable' (which stacks against him when his driving record is
reviewed for insurance or for possible employment with a different trucking
company).  Imagine that, you caused the accident but they hold it against
the truck driver anyway.  He is responsible for managing *your* driving
safety habits.

    These dramatically under appreciated people live a lifestyle that I
don't understand how they continue to live day in and day out year after
year.  Essentially they are slaves to our system and we continue to take
advantage of them paying many of them low wages and working them at a
schedule that would cause most of us to experience complete exhaustion.

    My hat is off to them and I think about them from time to time.  God
bless our truck drivers.



From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Thu Jun 15 10:03:49 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:03:49 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] truckers
Message-ID: <002801c6908c$e90f19e0$6101a8c0@Lauren>



Ah Fred,
 I read and re-read your article with great interest.  I wonder why you
 would put so much time and energy into such an article.

You see truck drivers really strike a chord with me and I'll tell you why.
 I'm sure there are many great truck drivers on the road with a safe driving
 record. I haven't met many. You stated that people feel anger towards truck
 drivers because of the manner in which they drive on the open highway.  You
 are so correct.   My article may offend you....

In 1984, I was taking my mother to and from Birmingham for her chemo
treatments three times per week.  On one Wednesday afternoon, I was driving 
her red car home with her reclined in the riders side. I was on the left 
side of  highway I-59 and a "wonderful"truck driver flew by and took off the 
entire side of her car( my mother's side.) He swerved over into my lane.

 He never stopped and kept going at approx 90 miles per hr. I'm sure to 
deliver his goods to a store! I had to chase him down and lucky for us a 
statetrooper was a few miles away.
 I finally got the truck to stop. The driver jumped out(all 4'10" of him and 
proceeded to cuss me out and even hit me.I was pregnant at the time)
 He was stoned out of his mind. At this point,  I was all over him and since 
my mother was only slightly injured she had to pull me off of him. He denied 
the hit and run---cars were pulled over for witnesses and the trooper had
 arrived.
Long story short---This precious trucker was stoned on Demerol, morphine and 
being serviced by his boyfriend(also stoned)when he nearly killed us. Red 
paint was all over his wheels--he went to jail with many charges!!! This 
wasn't the first time for him either.
 How do these guys pass drug testing?  Is there drug testing?

 Like you said.... It isn't whether or not he's at fault that matters. You 
may have run into him but the question is.. could he have done something to 
prevent it from happening?    You figure it out!

 My parents live next door to a trucker ....This trucker steals goods, lets 
his 14yr drive his 18wheeler on long trips while he sleeps, and is addicted 
to crystal meth.

 My daughter and I just went to Anniston yesterday and were run off the road 
by a 18 wheeler and then the thing kept
 chasing us for miles. I called the police but the truck had left by that
 time. A report was taken.

 As you can see, I have little respect for truckers. My dealings have not 
been good. Many are slaves to drugs to keep them going these long, grueling 
hours.
 My hats are off to the good ones.
 Susan


>>> ----- Original Message ----- 
>>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>>> To: "Rebels 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>>> Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2006 8:52 PM
>>> Subject: [Rebels1972] Economic Slavery on the Highways
>>>
>>>
>>>>    I'd like to share some ideas about some of the people who make this
>>>> country great.  They are often the most unappreciated people in the 
>>>> world.
>>>>
>>>>    We take them so much for granted despite all that they do.  Everyone
>>>> seems to think that the goods on the shelf at your store just appear 
>>>> there
>>>> magically.  The materials to build your home, school, or workplace were 
>>>> not
>>>> always there.  The fuel that makes your car run does not just appear at 
>>>> the
>>>> pump.  And there are many other material goods we rely on to maintain 
>>>> our
>>>> standard of living.
>>>>
>>>>    There are thousands of good Americans that transport these materials 
>>>> to
>>>> us.  They aren't heralded and they get no fanfare.  Man live a 
>>>> lifestyle of
>>>> separation from their families and work an incredible number of hours. 
>>>> It
>>>> is their plight I wish to discuss.
>>>>
>>>>    When the economy went sour at the end of 2001, I spoke with a 
>>>> recruiter
>>>> for a national trucking company, she arranged for me to travel to 
>>>> Memphis,
>>>> Tennessee and attend a three week school that would help me get a Class 
>>>> A
>>>> commercial driver's license with all the required endorsements and the
>>>> training required for the company to hire me as an over the road truck
>>>> driver.  The cost of attending the truck school was over five thousand
>>>> dollars and I was expected to be responsible for the cost myself.  I 
>>>> was not
>>>> compensated in any way for the time I spent in school.
>>>>
>>>>    I went to truck driving school with a lot of people from different 
>>>> parts
>>>> of the country and different backgrounds.  After we completed our first 
>>>> week
>>>> in school, we passed our written exams to get our learner's permits and 
>>>> our
>>>> medical certificates, which were required to operate the big eighteen
>>>> wheelers.
>>>>
>>>>    The next week was range training.  We learned all manner of backing.
>>>> Backing was not like backing a car.  It required a whole different 
>>>> twist.
>>>> To back a truck to the right one must turn the wheel to the left until 
>>>> the
>>>> truck jacks to the right.  Then you turn the wheel to the right to 
>>>> follow
>>>> the trailer and keep it on the right path.  Even backing in a straight 
>>>> line
>>>> was difficult.  But we learned our required backing skills during the 
>>>> second
>>>> week and went on for the road training.
>>>>
>>>>    We drove all over western Tennessee, eastern Arkansas, and northern
>>>> Mississippi.  To the end of the third week we completed our training 
>>>> and
>>>> passed our road tests.  When we returned to school the following week, 
>>>> we
>>>> were taken to the DMV to get our Class A commercial driver's licenses 
>>>> and
>>>> late we were assigned to a driver who would train us while we were 
>>>> actually
>>>> transporting goods all over the country.  We were paid only fifty 
>>>> dollars
>>>> per day while we trained regardless of the miles driven.  Since a 
>>>> driver
>>>> often drives between four and five hundred miles per shift, that 
>>>> amounts to
>>>> as little as ten cents per mile or less.
>>>>
>>>>    These three weeks of driver training was done with no compensation 
>>>> and a
>>>> legal requirement that you repay the company for the training.  Of 
>>>> course,
>>>> they pro-rated the cost over two years and made the payments for your 
>>>> as
>>>> long as you worked for them.  But if you found it necessary to leave, 
>>>> you
>>>> were on the hook for the pro-rated part of the money you owe.  This 
>>>> makes it
>>>> difficult to leave if you are unhappy with the working situation.
>>>>
>>>>    After I completed the training with my instructor, I began to learn
>>>> things I never knew.  I knew that truck drivers were typically away 
>>>> from
>>>> home for months at a time.  I never knew that they are not covered by 
>>>> the
>>>> wage and hour laws (overtime?  What is that?).  Truck drivers don't get
>>>> overtime even though they constantly work in excess of sixty hours per 
>>>> week.
>>>> They get paid for the miles they drive and (on occasion) for loading or
>>>> unloading a truck, not for the time they work.
>>>>
>>>>    Many responsibilities that truck drivers perform are without any
>>>> compensation.  The Department of Transportation requires that they 
>>>> perform a
>>>> complete and thorough pre-trip safety inspection each day, which takes
>>>> fifteen minutes of their time.  They receive no compensation for their 
>>>> time
>>>> to perform this.  When they weigh and balance a truck to make sure the 
>>>> load
>>>> is legal on the highway, they receive no compensation for that, either.
>>>>
>>>>    When they hitch or unhitch a trailer, they receive no compensation 
>>>> for
>>>> that task.  When a shipper or receiver makes them stand around and wait 
>>>> for
>>>> their load to be loaded or unloaded from a trailer, the driver receives 
>>>> no
>>>> compensation for the time he is there idle while the shipper or 
>>>> receiver
>>>> focuses on other things (unless he is paid for loading or unloading, 
>>>> which
>>>> isn't often).
>>>>
>>>>    And the driver is never guaranteed to get a shipment to move.  There
>>>> were a number of times where I sat at a truck stop in a strange city 
>>>> with no
>>>> load.  Our company compensated us forty dollars per day if they had no 
>>>> load
>>>> for us.  Imagine that, only forty dollars for a single day of your life 
>>>> (and
>>>> not all drivers even get that) away from your family, community, and
>>>> friends.  And the per mile rates for new drivers are very low.  One I 
>>>> was
>>>> asked to pick up a trailer, weigh it to make sure it was legally 
>>>> balanced,
>>>> and transport it to the nearest company terminal for
>>>> reassignment to another driver.  For my several hours of work, I 
>>>> received
>>>> approximately twelve dollars for my efforts.  It amounted to less than
>>>> minimum wage.
>>>>
>>>>    Truck drivers get no respect.  Once when I was at a truckstop near 
>>>> the
>>>> Canadian border in Maine, a driver told me that his CB handle was 
>>>> 'Caucasian
>>>> scumbag'.  He said that he chose that handle because of what his father
>>>> (also a truck driver) told him.  Truck driving is an honorable 
>>>> profession,
>>>> but you will never get any respect.  Sadly, I found myself agreeing 
>>>> with
>>>> him.  A few examples follow.
>>>>
>>>>    Once I made a delivery at a warehouse.  After 'bumping the dock' (an
>>>> expression used that means you have parked the trailer at the loading 
>>>> dock
>>>> so it can be loaded or unloaded), I found a door marked 'driver's 
>>>> entrance'.
>>>> When I stepped inside the door, I found myself standing inside of a 
>>>> cage
>>>> (subhuman treatment).
>>>>
>>>>    I once made a pickup at a major customer.  As my hours were almost 
>>>> used
>>>> up when I made the pickup, I parked the truck outside the front gate in 
>>>> an
>>>> area where truckers were allowed to park and get the required time in 
>>>> the
>>>> sleeper before they were allowed to drive again.  When I walked back to 
>>>> the
>>>> gate requesting to use the restroom, they refused saying that driver's
>>>> weren't allowed to use the restrooms in the facility.  I had to go and
>>>> relieve myself in the middle of an open field because there was no 
>>>> other
>>>> place provided for the drivers.
>>>>
>>>>    People often feel anger towards truck drivers because of the manner 
>>>> in
>>>> which they drive on the open highways.  I did not engage in such 
>>>> driving and
>>>> I did not approve of those who did.  But think of what it cost me. 
>>>> Slowing
>>>> down reduced the amount of money I made.  Remember that many of the 
>>>> lesser
>>>> experienced drivers are not all that well paid (contrary to the stories
>>>> about how well truck drivers are paid).  When you are paid by the mile 
>>>> at
>>>> such a rate as twenty-seven cents a mile and only allowed to drive for 
>>>> a
>>>> limited number of hours, making more money requires that you floor it. 
>>>> When
>>>> a driver is caught in a traffic jam, he is sitting there burning his 
>>>> driving
>>>> hours and getting no compensation for it.  He cannot drive extra hours 
>>>> to
>>>> make up for it or the Department of Transportation will fine him when 
>>>> they
>>>> audit his driving logbook.  To that end, some drivers falsify their 
>>>> logbook
>>>> to drive more miles.  This means that they are driving over the number 
>>>> of
>>>> hours it is safe for a person's body to be alert enough to handle an
>>>> eighty-thousand pound multi-vehicle truck and creates an additional 
>>>> hazard.
>>>>
>>>>    Truck drivers would like to see that changed, but it's difficult. 
>>>> 'Over
>>>> the road' drivers are away from home for months at a time.  Because of 
>>>> that
>>>> they don't get to vote.  Politicians look at those statistics and they
>>>> realize that spending time helping truck drivers does not yield them
>>>> additional votes.  This does not motivate the politicians to make 
>>>> things any
>>>> easier for them.  Once, a driver told me that he had tried to get an
>>>> absentee ballot.  He was asked where he'd be on election day.  He told 
>>>> them
>>>> he had no way of knowing because he was sent to different places often 
>>>> on
>>>> only a few hours notice.  Because he couldn't tell them where he'd be 
>>>> on
>>>> election day, they denied him an absentee ballot.
>>>>
>>>>    As long as we continue to pay our over the road drivers 'by the 
>>>> mile'
>>>> instead of by the hour and pay them for the things truck drivers do for 
>>>> no
>>>> compensation every day, the way many truck drivers operate their 
>>>> vehicles is
>>>> not going to change.  There is significant legislative reform needed 
>>>> but no
>>>> political incentive to perform it.  And many of these good people 
>>>> continue
>>>> to suffer while making a living to support their families (with whom 
>>>> they
>>>> are able to spend very little time with).  The next time you enjoy your
>>>> breakfast, buy nice new clothes at the store, fill up your tank with
>>>> gasoline, or partake of any number of other countless things, you 
>>>> should
>>>> remember that truck drivers brought those materials to you.
>>>>
>>>>    Imagine if the trucks stopped rolling for a week.  We'd experience 
>>>> gas
>>>> shortages, food shortages, and have to learn to do without many things.
>>>>
>>>>    When a driver is involved in a traffic accident, it isn't whether or 
>>>> not
>>>> he is at fault that matters.  You may have run into him but the 
>>>> question is
>>>> could he have done something to prevent it from happening?  Even if he 
>>>> was
>>>> not at fault in the accident, it often is still reported on his driving
>>>> record as 'preventable' (which stacks against him when his driving 
>>>> record is
>>>> reviewed for insurance or for possible employment with a different 
>>>> trucking
>>>> company).  Imagine that, you caused the accident but they hold it 
>>>> against
>>>> the truck driver anyway.  He is responsible for managing *your* driving
>>>> safety habits.
>>>>
>>>>    These dramatically under appreciated people live a lifestyle that I
>>>> don't understand how they continue to live day in and day out year 
>>>> after
>>>> year.  Essentially they are slaves to our system and we continue to 
>>>> take
>>>> advantage of them paying many of them low wages and working them at a
>>>> schedule that would cause most of us to experience complete exhaustion.
>>>>
>>>>    My hat is off to them and I think about them from time to time.  God
>>>> bless our truck drivers.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>>>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>>>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>>
> 




From tech450 at gmail.com  Thu Jun 15 10:13:55 2006
From: tech450 at gmail.com (Rick Peek)
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:13:55 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] truckers
In-Reply-To: <002801c6908c$e90f19e0$6101a8c0@Lauren>
References: <002801c6908c$e90f19e0$6101a8c0@Lauren>
Message-ID: <bbf5e22a0606150813t1dae2dc5hea2cc173d5544152@mail.gmail.com>

Hey Susan,
My sentiments on truckers are with you also. Driving from Gadsden to B'ham
on the interstate for 8 years, all my dealings with truckers have been
negative also. I have been run off the road several times myself and have
seen them cause numerous accidents, some of which I barely missed being in
myself. I have hit debris many times that was left in the road by truckers
and almost made me wreck and once hit some scrap metal that fell off a truck
and shredded my new tires and almost made me wreck. I have also had my
winsheild cracked and paint knocked off by flying rocks that fell off
trucks. I'm on your side.

Rick P.


On 6/15/06, machen2081 at bellsouth.net <machen2081 at bellsouth.net> wrote:
>
>
>
> Ah Fred,
> I read and re-read your article with great interest.  I wonder why you
> would put so much time and energy into such an article.
>
> You see truck drivers really strike a chord with me and I'll tell you why.
> I'm sure there are many great truck drivers on the road with a safe
> driving
> record. I haven't met many. You stated that people feel anger towards
> truck
> drivers because of the manner in which they drive on the open
> highway.  You
> are so correct.   My article may offend you....
>
> In 1984, I was taking my mother to and from Birmingham for her chemo
> treatments three times per week.  On one Wednesday afternoon, I was
> driving
> her red car home with her reclined in the riders side. I was on the left
> side of  highway I-59 and a "wonderful"truck driver flew by and took off
> the
> entire side of her car( my mother's side.) He swerved over into my lane.
>
> He never stopped and kept going at approx 90 miles per hr. I'm sure to
> deliver his goods to a store! I had to chase him down and lucky for us a
> statetrooper was a few miles away.
> I finally got the truck to stop. The driver jumped out(all 4'10" of him
> and
> proceeded to cuss me out and even hit me.I was pregnant at the time)
> He was stoned out of his mind. At this point,  I was all over him and
> since
> my mother was only slightly injured she had to pull me off of him. He
> denied
> the hit and run---cars were pulled over for witnesses and the trooper had
> arrived.
> Long story short---This precious trucker was stoned on Demerol, morphine
> and
> being serviced by his boyfriend(also stoned)when he nearly killed us. Red
> paint was all over his wheels--he went to jail with many charges!!! This
> wasn't the first time for him either.
> How do these guys pass drug testing?  Is there drug testing?
>
> Like you said.... It isn't whether or not he's at fault that matters. You
> may have run into him but the question is.. could he have done something
> to
> prevent it from happening?    You figure it out!
>
> My parents live next door to a trucker ....This trucker steals goods, lets
> his 14yr drive his 18wheeler on long trips while he sleeps, and is
> addicted
> to crystal meth.
>
> My daughter and I just went to Anniston yesterday and were run off the
> road
> by a 18 wheeler and then the thing kept
> chasing us for miles. I called the police but the truck had left by that
> time. A report was taken.
>
> As you can see, I have little respect for truckers. My dealings have not
> been good. Many are slaves to drugs to keep them going these long,
> grueling
> hours.
> My hats are off to the good ones.
> Susan
>
>
> >>> ----- Original Message -----
> >>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> >>> To: "Rebels 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> >>> Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2006 8:52 PM
> >>> Subject: [Rebels1972] Economic Slavery on the Highways
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>>    I'd like to share some ideas about some of the people who make
> this
> >>>> country great.  They are often the most unappreciated people in the
> >>>> world.
> >>>>
> >>>>    We take them so much for granted despite all that they
> do.  Everyone
> >>>> seems to think that the goods on the shelf at your store just appear
> >>>> there
> >>>> magically.  The materials to build your home, school, or workplace
> were
> >>>> not
> >>>> always there.  The fuel that makes your car run does not just appear
> at
> >>>> the
> >>>> pump.  And there are many other material goods we rely on to maintain
> >>>> our
> >>>> standard of living.
> >>>>
> >>>>    There are thousands of good Americans that transport these
> materials
> >>>> to
> >>>> us.  They aren't heralded and they get no fanfare.  Man live a
> >>>> lifestyle of
> >>>> separation from their families and work an incredible number of
> hours.
> >>>> It
> >>>> is their plight I wish to discuss.
> >>>>
> >>>>    When the economy went sour at the end of 2001, I spoke with a
> >>>> recruiter
> >>>> for a national trucking company, she arranged for me to travel to
> >>>> Memphis,
> >>>> Tennessee and attend a three week school that would help me get a
> Class
> >>>> A
> >>>> commercial driver's license with all the required endorsements and
> the
> >>>> training required for the company to hire me as an over the road
> truck
> >>>> driver.  The cost of attending the truck school was over five
> thousand
> >>>> dollars and I was expected to be responsible for the cost myself.  I
> >>>> was not
> >>>> compensated in any way for the time I spent in school.
> >>>>
> >>>>    I went to truck driving school with a lot of people from different
> >>>> parts
> >>>> of the country and different backgrounds.  After we completed our
> first
> >>>> week
> >>>> in school, we passed our written exams to get our learner's permits
> and
> >>>> our
> >>>> medical certificates, which were required to operate the big eighteen
> >>>> wheelers.
> >>>>
> >>>>    The next week was range training.  We learned all manner of
> backing.
> >>>> Backing was not like backing a car.  It required a whole different
> >>>> twist.
> >>>> To back a truck to the right one must turn the wheel to the left
> until
> >>>> the
> >>>> truck jacks to the right.  Then you turn the wheel to the right to
> >>>> follow
> >>>> the trailer and keep it on the right path.  Even backing in a
> straight
> >>>> line
> >>>> was difficult.  But we learned our required backing skills during the
> >>>> second
> >>>> week and went on for the road training.
> >>>>
> >>>>    We drove all over western Tennessee, eastern Arkansas, and
> northern
> >>>> Mississippi.  To the end of the third week we completed our training
> >>>> and
> >>>> passed our road tests.  When we returned to school the following
> week,
> >>>> we
> >>>> were taken to the DMV to get our Class A commercial driver's licenses
> >>>> and
> >>>> late we were assigned to a driver who would train us while we were
> >>>> actually
> >>>> transporting goods all over the country.  We were paid only fifty
> >>>> dollars
> >>>> per day while we trained regardless of the miles driven.  Since a
> >>>> driver
> >>>> often drives between four and five hundred miles per shift, that
> >>>> amounts to
> >>>> as little as ten cents per mile or less.
> >>>>
> >>>>    These three weeks of driver training was done with no compensation
> >>>> and a
> >>>> legal requirement that you repay the company for the training.  Of
> >>>> course,
> >>>> they pro-rated the cost over two years and made the payments for your
> >>>> as
> >>>> long as you worked for them.  But if you found it necessary to leave,
> >>>> you
> >>>> were on the hook for the pro-rated part of the money you owe.  This
> >>>> makes it
> >>>> difficult to leave if you are unhappy with the working situation.
> >>>>
> >>>>    After I completed the training with my instructor, I began to
> learn
> >>>> things I never knew.  I knew that truck drivers were typically away
> >>>> from
> >>>> home for months at a time.  I never knew that they are not covered by
> >>>> the
> >>>> wage and hour laws (overtime?  What is that?).  Truck drivers don't
> get
> >>>> overtime even though they constantly work in excess of sixty hours
> per
> >>>> week.
> >>>> They get paid for the miles they drive and (on occasion) for loading
> or
> >>>> unloading a truck, not for the time they work.
> >>>>
> >>>>    Many responsibilities that truck drivers perform are without any
> >>>> compensation.  The Department of Transportation requires that they
> >>>> perform a
> >>>> complete and thorough pre-trip safety inspection each day, which
> takes
> >>>> fifteen minutes of their time.  They receive no compensation for
> their
> >>>> time
> >>>> to perform this.  When they weigh and balance a truck to make sure
> the
> >>>> load
> >>>> is legal on the highway, they receive no compensation for that,
> either.
> >>>>
> >>>>    When they hitch or unhitch a trailer, they receive no compensation
> >>>> for
> >>>> that task.  When a shipper or receiver makes them stand around and
> wait
> >>>> for
> >>>> their load to be loaded or unloaded from a trailer, the driver
> receives
> >>>> no
> >>>> compensation for the time he is there idle while the shipper or
> >>>> receiver
> >>>> focuses on other things (unless he is paid for loading or unloading,
> >>>> which
> >>>> isn't often).
> >>>>
> >>>>    And the driver is never guaranteed to get a shipment to
> move.  There
> >>>> were a number of times where I sat at a truck stop in a strange city
> >>>> with no
> >>>> load.  Our company compensated us forty dollars per day if they had
> no
> >>>> load
> >>>> for us.  Imagine that, only forty dollars for a single day of your
> life
> >>>> (and
> >>>> not all drivers even get that) away from your family, community, and
> >>>> friends.  And the per mile rates for new drivers are very low.  One I
> >>>> was
> >>>> asked to pick up a trailer, weigh it to make sure it was legally
> >>>> balanced,
> >>>> and transport it to the nearest company terminal for
> >>>> reassignment to another driver.  For my several hours of work, I
> >>>> received
> >>>> approximately twelve dollars for my efforts.  It amounted to less
> than
> >>>> minimum wage.
> >>>>
> >>>>    Truck drivers get no respect.  Once when I was at a truckstop near
> >>>> the
> >>>> Canadian border in Maine, a driver told me that his CB handle was
> >>>> 'Caucasian
> >>>> scumbag'.  He said that he chose that handle because of what his
> father
> >>>> (also a truck driver) told him.  Truck driving is an honorable
> >>>> profession,
> >>>> but you will never get any respect.  Sadly, I found myself agreeing
> >>>> with
> >>>> him.  A few examples follow.
> >>>>
> >>>>    Once I made a delivery at a warehouse.  After 'bumping the dock'
> (an
> >>>> expression used that means you have parked the trailer at the loading
> >>>> dock
> >>>> so it can be loaded or unloaded), I found a door marked 'driver's
> >>>> entrance'.
> >>>> When I stepped inside the door, I found myself standing inside of a
> >>>> cage
> >>>> (subhuman treatment).
> >>>>
> >>>>    I once made a pickup at a major customer.  As my hours were almost
> >>>> used
> >>>> up when I made the pickup, I parked the truck outside the front gate
> in
> >>>> an
> >>>> area where truckers were allowed to park and get the required time in
> >>>> the
> >>>> sleeper before they were allowed to drive again.  When I walked back
> to
> >>>> the
> >>>> gate requesting to use the restroom, they refused saying that
> driver's
> >>>> weren't allowed to use the restrooms in the facility.  I had to go
> and
> >>>> relieve myself in the middle of an open field because there was no
> >>>> other
> >>>> place provided for the drivers.
> >>>>
> >>>>    People often feel anger towards truck drivers because of the
> manner
> >>>> in
> >>>> which they drive on the open highways.  I did not engage in such
> >>>> driving and
> >>>> I did not approve of those who did.  But think of what it cost me.
> >>>> Slowing
> >>>> down reduced the amount of money I made.  Remember that many of the
> >>>> lesser
> >>>> experienced drivers are not all that well paid (contrary to the
> stories
> >>>> about how well truck drivers are paid).  When you are paid by the
> mile
> >>>> at
> >>>> such a rate as twenty-seven cents a mile and only allowed to drive
> for
> >>>> a
> >>>> limited number of hours, making more money requires that you floor
> it.
> >>>> When
> >>>> a driver is caught in a traffic jam, he is sitting there burning his
> >>>> driving
> >>>> hours and getting no compensation for it.  He cannot drive extra
> hours
> >>>> to
> >>>> make up for it or the Department of Transportation will fine him when
> >>>> they
> >>>> audit his driving logbook.  To that end, some drivers falsify their
> >>>> logbook
> >>>> to drive more miles.  This means that they are driving over the
> number
> >>>> of
> >>>> hours it is safe for a person's body to be alert enough to handle an
> >>>> eighty-thousand pound multi-vehicle truck and creates an additional
> >>>> hazard.
> >>>>
> >>>>    Truck drivers would like to see that changed, but it's difficult.
> >>>> 'Over
> >>>> the road' drivers are away from home for months at a time.  Because
> of
> >>>> that
> >>>> they don't get to vote.  Politicians look at those statistics and
> they
> >>>> realize that spending time helping truck drivers does not yield them
> >>>> additional votes.  This does not motivate the politicians to make
> >>>> things any
> >>>> easier for them.  Once, a driver told me that he had tried to get an
> >>>> absentee ballot.  He was asked where he'd be on election day.  He
> told
> >>>> them
> >>>> he had no way of knowing because he was sent to different places
> often
> >>>> on
> >>>> only a few hours notice.  Because he couldn't tell them where he'd be
> >>>> on
> >>>> election day, they denied him an absentee ballot.
> >>>>
> >>>>    As long as we continue to pay our over the road drivers 'by the
> >>>> mile'
> >>>> instead of by the hour and pay them for the things truck drivers do
> for
> >>>> no
> >>>> compensation every day, the way many truck drivers operate their
> >>>> vehicles is
> >>>> not going to change.  There is significant legislative reform needed
> >>>> but no
> >>>> political incentive to perform it.  And many of these good people
> >>>> continue
> >>>> to suffer while making a living to support their families (with whom
> >>>> they
> >>>> are able to spend very little time with).  The next time you enjoy
> your
> >>>> breakfast, buy nice new clothes at the store, fill up your tank with
> >>>> gasoline, or partake of any number of other countless things, you
> >>>> should
> >>>> remember that truck drivers brought those materials to you.
> >>>>
> >>>>    Imagine if the trucks stopped rolling for a week.  We'd experience
> >>>> gas
> >>>> shortages, food shortages, and have to learn to do without many
> things.
> >>>>
> >>>>    When a driver is involved in a traffic accident, it isn't whether
> or
> >>>> not
> >>>> he is at fault that matters.  You may have run into him but the
> >>>> question is
> >>>> could he have done something to prevent it from happening?  Even if
> he
> >>>> was
> >>>> not at fault in the accident, it often is still reported on his
> driving
> >>>> record as 'preventable' (which stacks against him when his driving
> >>>> record is
> >>>> reviewed for insurance or for possible employment with a different
> >>>> trucking
> >>>> company).  Imagine that, you caused the accident but they hold it
> >>>> against
> >>>> the truck driver anyway.  He is responsible for managing *your*
> driving
> >>>> safety habits.
> >>>>
> >>>>    These dramatically under appreciated people live a lifestyle that
> I
> >>>> don't understand how they continue to live day in and day out year
> >>>> after
> >>>> year.  Essentially they are slaves to our system and we continue to
> >>>> take
> >>>> advantage of them paying many of them low wages and working them at a
> >>>> schedule that would cause most of us to experience complete
> exhaustion.
> >>>>
> >>>>    My hat is off to them and I think about them from time to
> time.  God
> >>>> bless our truck drivers.
> >>>>
> >>>>
> >>>> _______________________________________________
> >>>> Rebels1972 mailing list
> >>>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> >>>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> >>>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >
>
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>



-- 
Rick Peek
Tech450 at gmail.com
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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Thu Jun 15 10:26:26 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 08:26:26 -0700
Subject: [Rebels1972] truckers
Message-ID: <20060615082626.69A58CE0@resin01.mta.everyone.net>

Yes, Susan, 

     There is drug testing before they can even drive.  And they are subject to surprised, unannounced drug testing, too.  I've been tested a number of times, myself, all negative.  

     Well, you'd probably speed too if you were economically enslaved and the only way to make acceptable money was to speed.  Don't you think we could change the law to fix that?  

     I've been around the truck drivers.  Mostly, they are good people trying to make a living.  And remember, it only takes one or two negative folks in a stereotyped group (ah, that word) to make a lot of good people look bad.  

     We live lifestyles that we'd never live if these folks didn't do this work for us.  Remember that.  When we pass laws guaranteeing wages, we exempt them from the same laws we make to protect ourselves.  

     Regards, 



                                             Fred 


--- tech450 at gmail.com wrote:

From: "Rick Peek" <tech450 at gmail.com>
To: "Sansom Class of 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:13:55 -0500

Hey Susan,
My sentiments on truckers are with you also. Driving from Gadsden to B'ham
on the interstate for 8 years, all my dealings with truckers have been
negative also. I have been run off the road several times myself and have
seen them cause numerous accidents, some of which I barely missed being in
myself. I have hit debris many times that was left in the road by truckers
and almost made me wreck and once hit some scrap metal that fell off a truck
and shredded my new tires and almost made me wreck. I have also had my
winsheild cracked and paint knocked off by flying rocks that fell off
trucks. I'm on your side.

Rick P.


On 6/15/06, machen2081 at bellsouth.net <machen2081 at bellsouth.net> wrote:
>
>
>
> Ah Fred,
> I read and re-read your article with great interest.  I wonder why you
> would put so much time and energy into such an article.
>
> You see truck drivers really strike a chord with me and I'll tell you why.
> I'm sure there are many great truck drivers on the road with a safe
> driving
> record. I haven't met many. You stated that people feel anger towards
> truck
> drivers because of the manner in which they drive on the open
> highway.  You
> are so correct.   My article may offend you....
>
> In 1984, I was taking my mother to and from Birmingham for her chemo
> treatments three times per week.  On one Wednesday afternoon, I was
> driving
> her red car home with her reclined in the riders side. I was on the left
> side of  highway I-59 and a "wonderful"truck driver flew by and took off
> the
> entire side of her car( my mother's side.) He swerved over into my lane.
>
> He never stopped and kept going at approx 90 miles per hr. I'm sure to
> deliver his goods to a store! I had to chase him down and lucky for us a
> statetrooper was a few miles away.
> I finally got the truck to stop. The driver jumped out(all 4'10" of him
> and
> proceeded to cuss me out and even hit me.I was pregnant at the time)
> He was stoned out of his mind. At this point,  I was all over him and
> since
> my mother was only slightly injured she had to pull me off of him. He
> denied
> the hit and run---cars were pulled over for witnesses and the trooper had
> arrived.
> Long story short---This precious trucker was stoned on Demerol, morphine
> and
> being serviced by his boyfriend(also stoned)when he nearly killed us. Red
> paint was all over his wheels--he went to jail with many charges!!! This
> wasn't the first time for him either.
> How do these guys pass drug testing?  Is there drug testing?
>
> Like you said.... It isn't whether or not he's at fault that matters. You
> may have run into him but the question is.. could he have done something
> to
> prevent it from happening?    You figure it out!
>
> My parents live next door to a trucker ....This trucker steals goods, lets
> his 14yr drive his 18wheeler on long trips while he sleeps, and is
> addicted
> to crystal meth.
>
> My daughter and I just went to Anniston yesterday and were run off the
> road
> by a 18 wheeler and then the thing kept
> chasing us for miles. I called the police but the truck had left by that
> time. A report was taken.
>
> As you can see, I have little respect for truckers. My dealings have not
> been good. Many are slaves to drugs to keep them going these long,
> grueling
> hours.
> My hats are off to the good ones.
> Susan
>
>
> >>> ----- Original Message -----
> >>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> >>> To: "Rebels 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> >>> Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2006 8:52 PM
> >>> Subject: [Rebels1972] Economic Slavery on the Highways
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>>    I'd like to share some ideas about some of the people who make
> this
> >>>> country great.  They are often the most unappreciated people in the
> >>>> world.
> >>>>
> >>>>    We take them so much for granted despite all that they
> do.  Everyone
> >>>> seems to think that the goods on the shelf at your store just appear
> >>>> there
> >>>> magically.  The materials to build your home, school, or workplace
> were
> >>>> not
> >>>> always there.  The fuel that makes your car run does not just appear
> at
> >>>> the
> >>>> pump.  And there are many other material goods we rely on to maintain
> >>>> our
> >>>> standard of living.
> >>>>
> >>>>    There are thousands of good Americans that transport these
> materials
> >>>> to
> >>>> us.  They aren't heralded and they get no fanfare.  Man live a
> >>>> lifestyle of
> >>>> separation from their families and work an incredible number of
> hours.
> >>>> It
> >>>> is their plight I wish to discuss.
> >>>>
> >>>>    When the economy went sour at the end of 2001, I spoke with a
> >>>> recruiter
> >>>> for a national trucking company, she arranged for me to travel to
> >>>> Memphis,
> >>>> Tennessee and attend a three week school that would help me get a
> Class
> >>>> A
> >>>> commercial driver's license with all the required endorsements and
> the
> >>>> training required for the company to hire me as an over the road
> truck
> >>>> driver.  The cost of attending the truck school was over five
> thousand
> >>>> dollars and I was expected to be responsible for the cost myself.  I
> >>>> was not
> >>>> compensated in any way for the time I spent in school.
> >>>>
> >>>>    I went to truck driving school with a lot of people from different
> >>>> parts
> >>>> of the country and different backgrounds.  After we completed our
> first
> >>>> week
> >>>> in school, we passed our written exams to get our learner's permits
> and
> >>>> our
> >>>> medical certificates, which were required to operate the big eighteen
> >>>> wheelers.
> >>>>
> >>>>    The next week was range training.  We learned all manner of
> backing.
> >>>> Backing was not like backing a car.  It required a whole different
> >>>> twist.
> >>>> To back a truck to the right one must turn the wheel to the left
> until
> >>>> the
> >>>> truck jacks to the right.  Then you turn the wheel to the right to
> >>>> follow
> >>>> the trailer and keep it on the right path.  Even backing in a
> straight
> >>>> line
> >>>> was difficult.  But we learned our required backing skills during the
> >>>> second
> >>>> week and went on for the road training.
> >>>>
> >>>>    We drove all over western Tennessee, eastern Arkansas, and
> northern
> >>>> Mississippi.  To the end of the third week we completed our training
> >>>> and
> >>>> passed our road tests.  When we returned to school the following
> week,
> >>>> we
> >>>> were taken to the DMV to get our Class A commercial driver's licenses
> >>>> and
> >>>> late we were assigned to a driver who would train us while we were
> >>>> actually
> >>>> transporting goods all over the country.  We were paid only fifty
> >>>> dollars
> >>>> per day while we trained regardless of the miles driven.  Since a
> >>>> driver
> >>>> often drives between four and five hundred miles per shift, that
> >>>> amounts to
> >>>> as little as ten cents per mile or less.
> >>>>
> >>>>    These three weeks of driver training was done with no compensation
> >>>> and a
> >>>> legal requirement that you repay the company for the training.  Of
> >>>> course,
> >>>> they pro-rated the cost over two years and made the payments for your
> >>>> as
> >>>> long as you worked for them.  But if you found it necessary to leave,
> >>>> you
> >>>> were on the hook for the pro-rated part of the money you owe.  This
> >>>> makes it
> >>>> difficult to leave if you are unhappy with the working situation.
> >>>>
> >>>>    After I completed the training with my instructor, I began to
> learn
> >>>> things I never knew.  I knew that truck drivers were typically away
> >>>> from
> >>>> home for months at a time.  I never knew that they are not covered by
> >>>> the
> >>>> wage and hour laws (overtime?  What is that?).  Truck drivers don't
> get
> >>>> overtime even though they constantly work in excess of sixty hours
> per
> >>>> week.
> >>>> They get paid for the miles they drive and (on occasion) for loading
> or
> >>>> unloading a truck, not for the time they work.
> >>>>
> >>>>    Many responsibilities that truck drivers perform are without any
> >>>> compensation.  The Department of Transportation requires that they
> >>>> perform a
> >>>> complete and thorough pre-trip safety inspection each day, which
> takes
> >>>> fifteen minutes of their time.  They receive no compensation for
> their
> >>>> time
> >>>> to perform this.  When they weigh and balance a truck to make sure
> the
> >>>> load
> >>>> is legal on the highway, they receive no compensation for that,
> either.
> >>>>
> >>>>    When they hitch or unhitch a trailer, they receive no compensation
> >>>> for
> >>>> that task.  When a shipper or receiver makes them stand around and
> wait
> >>>> for
> >>>> their load to be loaded or unloaded from a trailer, the driver
> receives
> >>>> no
> >>>> compensation for the time he is there idle while the shipper or
> >>>> receiver
> >>>> focuses on other things (unless he is paid for loading or unloading,
> >>>> which
> >>>> isn't often).
> >>>>
> >>>>    And the driver is never guaranteed to get a shipment to
> move.  There
> >>>> were a number of times where I sat at a truck stop in a strange city
> >>>> with no
> >>>> load.  Our company compensated us forty dollars per day if they had
> no
> >>>> load
> >>>> for us.  Imagine that, only forty dollars for a single day of your
> life
> >>>> (and
> >>>> not all drivers even get that) away from your family, community, and
> >>>> friends.  And the per mile rates for new drivers are very low.  One I
> >>>> was
> >>>> asked to pick up a trailer, weigh it to make sure it was legally
> >>>> balanced,
> >>>> and transport it to the nearest company terminal for
> >>>> reassignment to another driver.  For my several hours of work, I
> >>>> received
> >>>> approximately twelve dollars for my efforts.  It amounted to less
> than
> >>>> minimum wage.
> >>>>
> >>>>    Truck drivers get no respect.  Once when I was at a truckstop near
> >>>> the
> >>>> Canadian border in Maine, a driver told me that his CB handle was
> >>>> 'Caucasian
> >>>> scumbag'.  He said that he chose that handle because of what his
> father
> >>>> (also a truck driver) told him.  Truck driving is an honorable
> >>>> profession,
> >>>> but you will never get any respect.  Sadly, I found myself agreeing
> >>>> with
> >>>> him.  A few examples follow.
> >>>>
> >>>>    Once I made a delivery at a warehouse.  After 'bumping the dock'
> (an
> >>>> expression used that means you have parked the trailer at the loading
> >>>> dock
> >>>> so it can be loaded or unloaded), I found a door marked 'driver's
> >>>> entrance'.
> >>>> When I stepped inside the door, I found myself standing inside of a
> >>>> cage
> >>>> (subhuman treatment).
> >>>>
> >>>>    I once made a pickup at a major customer.  As my hours were almost
> >>>> used
> >>>> up when I made the pickup, I parked the truck outside the front gate
> in
> >>>> an
> >>>> area where truckers were allowed to park and get the required time in
> >>>> the
> >>>> sleeper before they were allowed to drive again.  When I walked back
> to
> >>>> the
> >>>> gate requesting to use the restroom, they refused saying that
> driver's
> >>>> weren't allowed to use the restrooms in the facility.  I had to go
> and
> >>>> relieve myself in the middle of an open field because there was no
> >>>> other
> >>>> place provided for the drivers.
> >>>>
> >>>>    People often feel anger towards truck drivers because of the
> manner
> >>>> in
> >>>> which they drive on the open highways.  I did not engage in such
> >>>> driving and
> >>>> I did not approve of those who did.  But think of what it cost me.
> >>>> Slowing
> >>>> down reduced the amount of money I made.  Remember that many of the
> >>>> lesser
> >>>> experienced drivers are not all that well paid (contrary to the
> stories
> >>>> about how well truck drivers are paid).  When you are paid by the
> mile
> >>>> at
> >>>> such a rate as twenty-seven cents a mile and only allowed to drive
> for
> >>>> a
> >>>> limited number of hours, making more money requires that you floor
> it.
> >>>> When
> >>>> a driver is caught in a traffic jam, he is sitting there burning his
> >>>> driving
> >>>> hours and getting no compensation for it.  He cannot drive extra
> hours
> >>>> to
> >>>> make up for it or the Department of Transportation will fine him when
> >>>> they
> >>>> audit his driving logbook.  To that end, some drivers falsify their
> >>>> logbook
> >>>> to drive more miles.  This means that they are driving over the
> number
> >>>> of
> >>>> hours it is safe for a person's body to be alert enough to handle an
> >>>> eighty-thousand pound multi-vehicle truck and creates an additional
> >>>> hazard.
> >>>>
> >>>>    Truck drivers would like to see that changed, but it's difficult.
> >>>> 'Over
> >>>> the road' drivers are away from home for months at a time.  Because
> of
> >>>> that
> >>>> they don't get to vote.  Politicians look at those statistics and
> they
> >>>> realize that spending time helping truck drivers does not yield them
> >>>> additional votes.  This does not motivate the politicians to make
> >>>> things any
> >>>> easier for them.  Once, a driver told me that he had tried to get an
> >>>> absentee ballot.  He was asked where he'd be on election day.  He
> told
> >>>> them
> >>>> he had no way of knowing because he was sent to different places
> often
> >>>> on
> >>>> only a few hours notice.  Because he couldn't tell them where he'd be
> >>>> on
> >>>> election day, they denied him an absentee ballot.
> >>>>
> >>>>    As long as we continue to pay our over the road drivers 'by the
> >>>> mile'
> >>>> instead of by the hour and pay them for the things truck drivers do
> for
> >>>> no
> >>>> compensation every day, the way many truck drivers operate their
> >>>> vehicles is
> >>>> not going to change.  There is significant legislative reform needed
> >>>> but no
> >>>> political incentive to perform it.  And many of these good people
> >>>> continue
> >>>> to suffer while making a living to support their families (with whom
> >>>> they
> >>>> are able to spend very little time with).  The next time you enjoy
> your
> >>>> breakfast, buy nice new clothes at the store, fill up your tank with
> >>>> gasoline, or partake of any number of other countless things, you
> >>>> should
> >>>> remember that truck drivers brought those materials to you.
> >>>>
> >>>>    Imagine if the trucks stopped rolling for a week.  We'd experience
> >>>> gas
> >>>> shortages, food shortages, and have to learn to do without many
> things.
> >>>>
> >>>>    When a driver is involved in a traffic accident, it isn't whether
> or
> >>>> not
> >>>> he is at fault that matters.  You may have run into him but the
> >>>> question is
> >>>> could he have done something to prevent it from happening?  Even if
> he
> >>>> was
> >>>> not at fault in the accident, it often is still reported on his
> driving
> >>>> record as 'preventable' (which stacks against him when his driving
> >>>> record is
> >>>> reviewed for insurance or for possible employment with a different
> >>>> trucking
> >>>> company).  Imagine that, you caused the accident but they hold it
> >>>> against
> >>>> the truck driver anyway.  He is responsible for managing *your*
> driving
> >>>> safety habits.
> >>>>
> >>>>    These dramatically under appreciated people live a lifestyle that
> I
> >>>> don't understand how they continue to live day in and day out year
> >>>> after
> >>>> year.  Essentially they are slaves to our system and we continue to
> >>>> take
> >>>> advantage of them paying many of them low wages and working them at a
> >>>> schedule that would cause most of us to experience complete
> exhaustion.
> >>>>
> >>>>    My hat is off to them and I think about them from time to
> time.  God
> >>>> bless our truck drivers.
> >>>>
> >>>>
> >>>> _______________________________________________
> >>>> Rebels1972 mailing list
> >>>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> >>>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> >>>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>
> >>
> >>
> >>
> >
>
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>



-- 
Rick Peek
Tech450 at gmail.com

_______________________________________________
Rebels1972 mailing list
Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net


From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Thu Jun 15 10:29:50 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:29:50 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] truckers
References: <002801c6908c$e90f19e0$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<bbf5e22a0606150813t1dae2dc5hea2cc173d5544152@mail.gmail.com>
Message-ID: <004a01c69090$8b436ce0$6101a8c0@Lauren>

Thanks Reek,   my article could have been much longer with many more examples such as yours. Lauren has been on the road like you to and from college every day for a while. They have even bumped her car.
 While at Bama, it was a nightmare traveling from Tuscaloosa-she was constantly harassed by the truckers on the road.  

Isn't is terrible on I-59 , trying to dodge the 18 wheelers because they are changing lanes right in front of you-back and forth-weaving, swerving  you can't get into any lane.    I suppose they were in a big hurry to get those goods to the grocery shelves.
Susan
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Rick Peek 
  To: Sansom Class of 1972 
  Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 10:13 AM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers


  Hey Susan,
  My sentiments on truckers are with you also. Driving from Gadsden to B'ham on the interstate for 8 years, all my dealings with truckers have been negative also. I have been run off the road several times myself and have seen them cause numerous accidents, some of which I barely missed being in myself. I have hit debris many times that was left in the road by truckers and almost made me wreck and once hit some scrap metal that fell off a truck and shredded my new tires and almost made me wreck. I have also had my winsheild cracked and paint knocked off by flying rocks that fell off trucks. I'm on your side. 

  Rick P.

   
  On 6/15/06, machen2081 at bellsouth.net <machen2081 at bellsouth.net > wrote: 


    Ah Fred,
    I read and re-read your article with great interest.  I wonder why you
    would put so much time and energy into such an article. 

    You see truck drivers really strike a chord with me and I'll tell you why.
    I'm sure there are many great truck drivers on the road with a safe driving
    record. I haven't met many. You stated that people feel anger towards truck 
    drivers because of the manner in which they drive on the open highway.  You
    are so correct.   My article may offend you....

    In 1984, I was taking my mother to and from Birmingham for her chemo
    treatments three times per week.  On one Wednesday afternoon, I was driving 
    her red car home with her reclined in the riders side. I was on the left
    side of  highway I-59 and a "wonderful"truck driver flew by and took off the
    entire side of her car( my mother's side.) He swerved over into my lane. 

    He never stopped and kept going at approx 90 miles per hr. I'm sure to
    deliver his goods to a store! I had to chase him down and lucky for us a
    statetrooper was a few miles away.
    I finally got the truck to stop. The driver jumped out(all 4'10" of him and 
    proceeded to cuss me out and even hit me.I was pregnant at the time)
    He was stoned out of his mind. At this point,  I was all over him and since
    my mother was only slightly injured she had to pull me off of him. He denied 
    the hit and run---cars were pulled over for witnesses and the trooper had
    arrived.
    Long story short---This precious trucker was stoned on Demerol, morphine and
    being serviced by his boyfriend(also stoned)when he nearly killed us. Red 
    paint was all over his wheels--he went to jail with many charges!!! This
    wasn't the first time for him either.
    How do these guys pass drug testing?  Is there drug testing?

    Like you said.... It isn't whether or not he's at fault that matters. You 
    may have run into him but the question is.. could he have done something to
    prevent it from happening?    You figure it out!

    My parents live next door to a trucker ....This trucker steals goods, lets
    his 14yr drive his 18wheeler on long trips while he sleeps, and is addicted 
    to crystal meth.

    My daughter and I just went to Anniston yesterday and were run off the road
    by a 18 wheeler and then the thing kept
    chasing us for miles. I called the police but the truck had left by that 
    time. A report was taken.

    As you can see, I have little respect for truckers. My dealings have not
    been good. Many are slaves to drugs to keep them going these long, grueling
    hours.
    My hats are off to the good ones. 
    Susan


    >>> ----- Original Message -----
    >>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
    >>> To: "Rebels 1972" < rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
    >>> Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2006 8:52 PM
    >>> Subject: [Rebels1972] Economic Slavery on the Highways
    >>>
    >>> 
    >>>>    I'd like to share some ideas about some of the people who make this
    >>>> country great.  They are often the most unappreciated people in the
    >>>> world.
    >>>> 
    >>>>    We take them so much for granted despite all that they do.  Everyone
    >>>> seems to think that the goods on the shelf at your store just appear
    >>>> there
    >>>> magically.  The materials to build your home, school, or workplace were 
    >>>> not
    >>>> always there.  The fuel that makes your car run does not just appear at
    >>>> the
    >>>> pump.  And there are many other material goods we rely on to maintain 
    >>>> our
    >>>> standard of living.
    >>>>
    >>>>    There are thousands of good Americans that transport these materials
    >>>> to
    >>>> us.  They aren't heralded and they get no fanfare.  Man live a 
    >>>> lifestyle of
    >>>> separation from their families and work an incredible number of hours.
    >>>> It
    >>>> is their plight I wish to discuss.
    >>>> 
    >>>>    When the economy went sour at the end of 2001, I spoke with a
    >>>> recruiter
    >>>> for a national trucking company, she arranged for me to travel to
    >>>> Memphis, 
    >>>> Tennessee and attend a three week school that would help me get a Class
    >>>> A
    >>>> commercial driver's license with all the required endorsements and the
    >>>> training required for the company to hire me as an over the road truck 
    >>>> driver.  The cost of attending the truck school was over five thousand
    >>>> dollars and I was expected to be responsible for the cost myself.  I
    >>>> was not
    >>>> compensated in any way for the time I spent in school. 
    >>>>
    >>>>    I went to truck driving school with a lot of people from different
    >>>> parts
    >>>> of the country and different backgrounds.  After we completed our first 
    >>>> week
    >>>> in school, we passed our written exams to get our learner's permits and
    >>>> our
    >>>> medical certificates, which were required to operate the big eighteen 
    >>>> wheelers.
    >>>>
    >>>>    The next week was range training.  We learned all manner of backing.
    >>>> Backing was not like backing a car.  It required a whole different 
    >>>> twist.
    >>>> To back a truck to the right one must turn the wheel to the left until
    >>>> the
    >>>> truck jacks to the right.  Then you turn the wheel to the right to 
    >>>> follow
    >>>> the trailer and keep it on the right path.  Even backing in a straight
    >>>> line
    >>>> was difficult.  But we learned our required backing skills during the 
    >>>> second
    >>>> week and went on for the road training.
    >>>>
    >>>>    We drove all over western Tennessee, eastern Arkansas, and northern
    >>>> Mississippi.  To the end of the third week we completed our training 
    >>>> and
    >>>> passed our road tests.  When we returned to school the following week,
    >>>> we
    >>>> were taken to the DMV to get our Class A commercial driver's licenses 
    >>>> and
    >>>> late we were assigned to a driver who would train us while we were
    >>>> actually
    >>>> transporting goods all over the country.  We were paid only fifty 
    >>>> dollars
    >>>> per day while we trained regardless of the miles driven.  Since a
    >>>> driver
    >>>> often drives between four and five hundred miles per shift, that 
    >>>> amounts to
    >>>> as little as ten cents per mile or less.
    >>>>
    >>>>    These three weeks of driver training was done with no compensation
    >>>> and a 
    >>>> legal requirement that you repay the company for the training.  Of
    >>>> course,
    >>>> they pro-rated the cost over two years and made the payments for your
    >>>> as 
    >>>> long as you worked for them.  But if you found it necessary to leave,
    >>>> you
    >>>> were on the hook for the pro-rated part of the money you owe.  This
    >>>> makes it 
    >>>> difficult to leave if you are unhappy with the working situation.
    >>>>
    >>>>    After I completed the training with my instructor, I began to learn
    >>>> things I never knew.  I knew that truck drivers were typically away 
    >>>> from
    >>>> home for months at a time.  I never knew that they are not covered by
    >>>> the
    >>>> wage and hour laws (overtime?  What is that?).  Truck drivers don't get 
    >>>> overtime even though they constantly work in excess of sixty hours per
    >>>> week.
    >>>> They get paid for the miles they drive and (on occasion) for loading or
    >>>> unloading a truck, not for the time they work. 
    >>>>
    >>>>    Many responsibilities that truck drivers perform are without any
    >>>> compensation.  The Department of Transportation requires that they
    >>>> perform a 
    >>>> complete and thorough pre-trip safety inspection each day, which takes
    >>>> fifteen minutes of their time.  They receive no compensation for their
    >>>> time
    >>>> to perform this.  When they weigh and balance a truck to make sure the 
    >>>> load
    >>>> is legal on the highway, they receive no compensation for that, either.
    >>>>
    >>>>    When they hitch or unhitch a trailer, they receive no compensation 
    >>>> for
    >>>> that task.  When a shipper or receiver makes them stand around and wait
    >>>> for
    >>>> their load to be loaded or unloaded from a trailer, the driver receives 
    >>>> no
    >>>> compensation for the time he is there idle while the shipper or
    >>>> receiver
    >>>> focuses on other things (unless he is paid for loading or unloading, 
    >>>> which
    >>>> isn't often).
    >>>>
    >>>>    And the driver is never guaranteed to get a shipment to move.  There
    >>>> were a number of times where I sat at a truck stop in a strange city 
    >>>> with no
    >>>> load.  Our company compensated us forty dollars per day if they had no
    >>>> load
    >>>> for us.  Imagine that, only forty dollars for a single day of your life 
    >>>> (and
    >>>> not all drivers even get that) away from your family, community, and
    >>>> friends.  And the per mile rates for new drivers are very low.  One I
    >>>> was 
    >>>> asked to pick up a trailer, weigh it to make sure it was legally
    >>>> balanced,
    >>>> and transport it to the nearest company terminal for
    >>>> reassignment to another driver.  For my several hours of work, I 
    >>>> received
    >>>> approximately twelve dollars for my efforts.  It amounted to less than
    >>>> minimum wage.
    >>>>
    >>>>    Truck drivers get no respect.  Once when I was at a truckstop near 
    >>>> the
    >>>> Canadian border in Maine, a driver told me that his CB handle was
    >>>> 'Caucasian
    >>>> scumbag'.  He said that he chose that handle because of what his father 
    >>>> (also a truck driver) told him.  Truck driving is an honorable
    >>>> profession,
    >>>> but you will never get any respect.  Sadly, I found myself agreeing
    >>>> with 
    >>>> him.  A few examples follow.
    >>>>
    >>>>    Once I made a delivery at a warehouse.  After 'bumping the dock' (an
    >>>> expression used that means you have parked the trailer at the loading 
    >>>> dock
    >>>> so it can be loaded or unloaded), I found a door marked 'driver's
    >>>> entrance'.
    >>>> When I stepped inside the door, I found myself standing inside of a 
    >>>> cage
    >>>> (subhuman treatment).
    >>>>
    >>>>    I once made a pickup at a major customer.  As my hours were almost
    >>>> used
    >>>> up when I made the pickup, I parked the truck outside the front gate in 
    >>>> an
    >>>> area where truckers were allowed to park and get the required time in
    >>>> the
    >>>> sleeper before they were allowed to drive again.  When I walked back to 
    >>>> the
    >>>> gate requesting to use the restroom, they refused saying that driver's
    >>>> weren't allowed to use the restrooms in the facility.  I had to go and
    >>>> relieve myself in the middle of an open field because there was no 
    >>>> other
    >>>> place provided for the drivers.
    >>>>
    >>>>    People often feel anger towards truck drivers because of the manner
    >>>> in
    >>>> which they drive on the open highways.  I did not engage in such 
    >>>> driving and
    >>>> I did not approve of those who did.  But think of what it cost me.
    >>>> Slowing
    >>>> down reduced the amount of money I made.  Remember that many of the 
    >>>> lesser
    >>>> experienced drivers are not all that well paid (contrary to the stories
    >>>> about how well truck drivers are paid).  When you are paid by the mile
    >>>> at 
    >>>> such a rate as twenty-seven cents a mile and only allowed to drive for
    >>>> a
    >>>> limited number of hours, making more money requires that you floor it.
    >>>> When 
    >>>> a driver is caught in a traffic jam, he is sitting there burning his
    >>>> driving
    >>>> hours and getting no compensation for it.  He cannot drive extra hours
    >>>> to 
    >>>> make up for it or the Department of Transportation will fine him when
    >>>> they
    >>>> audit his driving logbook.  To that end, some drivers falsify their
    >>>> logbook 
    >>>> to drive more miles.  This means that they are driving over the number
    >>>> of
    >>>> hours it is safe for a person's body to be alert enough to handle an
    >>>> eighty-thousand pound multi-vehicle truck and creates an additional 
    >>>> hazard.
    >>>>
    >>>>    Truck drivers would like to see that changed, but it's difficult.
    >>>> 'Over
    >>>> the road' drivers are away from home for months at a time.  Because of 
    >>>> that
    >>>> they don't get to vote.  Politicians look at those statistics and they
    >>>> realize that spending time helping truck drivers does not yield them
    >>>> additional votes.  This does not motivate the politicians to make 
    >>>> things any
    >>>> easier for them.  Once, a driver told me that he had tried to get an
    >>>> absentee ballot.  He was asked where he'd be on election day.  He told
    >>>> them 
    >>>> he had no way of knowing because he was sent to different places often
    >>>> on
    >>>> only a few hours notice.  Because he couldn't tell them where he'd be
    >>>> on 
    >>>> election day, they denied him an absentee ballot.
    >>>>
    >>>>    As long as we continue to pay our over the road drivers 'by the
    >>>> mile'
    >>>> instead of by the hour and pay them for the things truck drivers do for 
    >>>> no
    >>>> compensation every day, the way many truck drivers operate their
    >>>> vehicles is
    >>>> not going to change.  There is significant legislative reform needed 
    >>>> but no
    >>>> political incentive to perform it.  And many of these good people
    >>>> continue
    >>>> to suffer while making a living to support their families (with whom 
    >>>> they
    >>>> are able to spend very little time with).  The next time you enjoy your
    >>>> breakfast, buy nice new clothes at the store, fill up your tank with
    >>>> gasoline, or partake of any number of other countless things, you 
    >>>> should
    >>>> remember that truck drivers brought those materials to you.
    >>>>
    >>>>    Imagine if the trucks stopped rolling for a week.  We'd experience
    >>>> gas
    >>>> shortages, food shortages, and have to learn to do without many things.
    >>>>
    >>>>    When a driver is involved in a traffic accident, it isn't whether or 
    >>>> not
    >>>> he is at fault that matters.  You may have run into him but the
    >>>> question is
    >>>> could he have done something to prevent it from happening?  Even if he 
    >>>> was
    >>>> not at fault in the accident, it often is still reported on his driving
    >>>> record as 'preventable' (which stacks against him when his driving
    >>>> record is 
    >>>> reviewed for insurance or for possible employment with a different
    >>>> trucking
    >>>> company).  Imagine that, you caused the accident but they hold it
    >>>> against 
    >>>> the truck driver anyway.  He is responsible for managing *your* driving
    >>>> safety habits.
    >>>>
    >>>>    These dramatically under appreciated people live a lifestyle that I 
    >>>> don't understand how they continue to live day in and day out year
    >>>> after
    >>>> year.  Essentially they are slaves to our system and we continue to
    >>>> take 
    >>>> advantage of them paying many of them low wages and working them at a
    >>>> schedule that would cause most of us to experience complete exhaustion.
    >>>>
    >>>>    My hat is off to them and I think about them from time to time.  God 
    >>>> bless our truck drivers.
    >>>>
    >>>>
    >>>> _______________________________________________
    >>>> Rebels1972 mailing list
    >>>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
    >>>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
    >>>>
    >>>
    >>>
    >>>
    >>
    >>
    >>
    >



    _______________________________________________
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    http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net




  -- 
  Rick Peek
  Tech450 at gmail.com 


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From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Thu Jun 15 10:50:13 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:50:13 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] truckers
References: <20060615082626.69A58CE0@resin01.mta.everyone.net>
Message-ID: <007301c69093$644b0c30$6101a8c0@Lauren>

Fred,
The only way they can make acceptable money is to speed?  Putting hundreds 
of thousands of lives at risk every day on the road including their 
own----for them to make some money?
Yea they're speeding all right---with the crap that they are ingesting in a 
pill form.

I was a hemodialysis RN for 27 years and I can't begin to tell you the 
number of truckers that I have dialyzed over this period of time because of 
their long term drug abuse. This group was the hardest group to work with 
due to their non-compliance, disrespect for authority figures and continued 
drug abuse.

No Fred, I wouldn't get behind a wheel and speed just to increase my 
earnings.. I'm just not made that way.  I have respect for human life. 
Period.

Transport the goods via railroad. Utilize as few trucks as possible.  As for 
me, I'm sick of their attitudes---they don't own the roads!

You're right about one thing---one bad apple spoils the whole bunch---this 
goes for everything in life

Susan


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
To: <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 10:26 AM
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers


> Yes, Susan,
>
>     There is drug testing before they can even drive.  And they are 
> subject to surprised, unannounced drug testing, too.  I've been tested a 
> number of times, myself, all negative.
>
>     Well, you'd probably speed too if you were economically enslaved and 
> the only way to make acceptable money was to speed.  Don't you think we 
> could change the law to fix that?
>
>     I've been around the truck drivers.  Mostly, they are good people 
> trying to make a living.  And remember, it only takes one or two negative 
> folks in a stereotyped group (ah, that word) to make a lot of good people 
> look bad.
>
>     We live lifestyles that we'd never live if these folks didn't do this 
> work for us.  Remember that.  When we pass laws guaranteeing wages, we 
> exempt them from the same laws we make to protect ourselves.
>
>     Regards,
>
>
>
>                                             Fred
>
>
> --- tech450 at gmail.com wrote:
>
> From: "Rick Peek" <tech450 at gmail.com>
> To: "Sansom Class of 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:13:55 -0500
>
> Hey Susan,
> My sentiments on truckers are with you also. Driving from Gadsden to B'ham
> on the interstate for 8 years, all my dealings with truckers have been
> negative also. I have been run off the road several times myself and have
> seen them cause numerous accidents, some of which I barely missed being in
> myself. I have hit debris many times that was left in the road by truckers
> and almost made me wreck and once hit some scrap metal that fell off a 
> truck
> and shredded my new tires and almost made me wreck. I have also had my
> winsheild cracked and paint knocked off by flying rocks that fell off
> trucks. I'm on your side.
>
> Rick P.
>
>
> On 6/15/06, machen2081 at bellsouth.net <machen2081 at bellsouth.net> wrote:
>>
>>
>>
>> Ah Fred,
>> I read and re-read your article with great interest.  I wonder why you
>> would put so much time and energy into such an article.
>>
>> You see truck drivers really strike a chord with me and I'll tell you 
>> why.
>> I'm sure there are many great truck drivers on the road with a safe
>> driving
>> record. I haven't met many. You stated that people feel anger towards
>> truck
>> drivers because of the manner in which they drive on the open
>> highway.  You
>> are so correct.   My article may offend you....
>>
>> In 1984, I was taking my mother to and from Birmingham for her chemo
>> treatments three times per week.  On one Wednesday afternoon, I was
>> driving
>> her red car home with her reclined in the riders side. I was on the left
>> side of  highway I-59 and a "wonderful"truck driver flew by and took off
>> the
>> entire side of her car( my mother's side.) He swerved over into my lane.
>>
>> He never stopped and kept going at approx 90 miles per hr. I'm sure to
>> deliver his goods to a store! I had to chase him down and lucky for us a
>> statetrooper was a few miles away.
>> I finally got the truck to stop. The driver jumped out(all 4'10" of him
>> and
>> proceeded to cuss me out and even hit me.I was pregnant at the time)
>> He was stoned out of his mind. At this point,  I was all over him and
>> since
>> my mother was only slightly injured she had to pull me off of him. He
>> denied
>> the hit and run---cars were pulled over for witnesses and the trooper had
>> arrived.
>> Long story short---This precious trucker was stoned on Demerol, morphine
>> and
>> being serviced by his boyfriend(also stoned)when he nearly killed us. Red
>> paint was all over his wheels--he went to jail with many charges!!! This
>> wasn't the first time for him either.
>> How do these guys pass drug testing?  Is there drug testing?
>>
>> Like you said.... It isn't whether or not he's at fault that matters. You
>> may have run into him but the question is.. could he have done something
>> to
>> prevent it from happening?    You figure it out!
>>
>> My parents live next door to a trucker ....This trucker steals goods, 
>> lets
>> his 14yr drive his 18wheeler on long trips while he sleeps, and is
>> addicted
>> to crystal meth.
>>
>> My daughter and I just went to Anniston yesterday and were run off the
>> road
>> by a 18 wheeler and then the thing kept
>> chasing us for miles. I called the police but the truck had left by that
>> time. A report was taken.
>>
>> As you can see, I have little respect for truckers. My dealings have not
>> been good. Many are slaves to drugs to keep them going these long,
>> grueling
>> hours.
>> My hats are off to the good ones.
>> Susan
>>
>>
>> >>> ----- Original Message -----
>> >>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >>> To: "Rebels 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >>> Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2006 8:52 PM
>> >>> Subject: [Rebels1972] Economic Slavery on the Highways
>> >>>
>> >>>
>> >>>>    I'd like to share some ideas about some of the people who make
>> this
>> >>>> country great.  They are often the most unappreciated people in the
>> >>>> world.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    We take them so much for granted despite all that they
>> do.  Everyone
>> >>>> seems to think that the goods on the shelf at your store just appear
>> >>>> there
>> >>>> magically.  The materials to build your home, school, or workplace
>> were
>> >>>> not
>> >>>> always there.  The fuel that makes your car run does not just appear
>> at
>> >>>> the
>> >>>> pump.  And there are many other material goods we rely on to 
>> >>>> maintain
>> >>>> our
>> >>>> standard of living.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    There are thousands of good Americans that transport these
>> materials
>> >>>> to
>> >>>> us.  They aren't heralded and they get no fanfare.  Man live a
>> >>>> lifestyle of
>> >>>> separation from their families and work an incredible number of
>> hours.
>> >>>> It
>> >>>> is their plight I wish to discuss.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    When the economy went sour at the end of 2001, I spoke with a
>> >>>> recruiter
>> >>>> for a national trucking company, she arranged for me to travel to
>> >>>> Memphis,
>> >>>> Tennessee and attend a three week school that would help me get a
>> Class
>> >>>> A
>> >>>> commercial driver's license with all the required endorsements and
>> the
>> >>>> training required for the company to hire me as an over the road
>> truck
>> >>>> driver.  The cost of attending the truck school was over five
>> thousand
>> >>>> dollars and I was expected to be responsible for the cost myself.  I
>> >>>> was not
>> >>>> compensated in any way for the time I spent in school.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    I went to truck driving school with a lot of people from 
>> >>>> different
>> >>>> parts
>> >>>> of the country and different backgrounds.  After we completed our
>> first
>> >>>> week
>> >>>> in school, we passed our written exams to get our learner's permits
>> and
>> >>>> our
>> >>>> medical certificates, which were required to operate the big 
>> >>>> eighteen
>> >>>> wheelers.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    The next week was range training.  We learned all manner of
>> backing.
>> >>>> Backing was not like backing a car.  It required a whole different
>> >>>> twist.
>> >>>> To back a truck to the right one must turn the wheel to the left
>> until
>> >>>> the
>> >>>> truck jacks to the right.  Then you turn the wheel to the right to
>> >>>> follow
>> >>>> the trailer and keep it on the right path.  Even backing in a
>> straight
>> >>>> line
>> >>>> was difficult.  But we learned our required backing skills during 
>> >>>> the
>> >>>> second
>> >>>> week and went on for the road training.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    We drove all over western Tennessee, eastern Arkansas, and
>> northern
>> >>>> Mississippi.  To the end of the third week we completed our training
>> >>>> and
>> >>>> passed our road tests.  When we returned to school the following
>> week,
>> >>>> we
>> >>>> were taken to the DMV to get our Class A commercial driver's 
>> >>>> licenses
>> >>>> and
>> >>>> late we were assigned to a driver who would train us while we were
>> >>>> actually
>> >>>> transporting goods all over the country.  We were paid only fifty
>> >>>> dollars
>> >>>> per day while we trained regardless of the miles driven.  Since a
>> >>>> driver
>> >>>> often drives between four and five hundred miles per shift, that
>> >>>> amounts to
>> >>>> as little as ten cents per mile or less.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    These three weeks of driver training was done with no 
>> >>>> compensation
>> >>>> and a
>> >>>> legal requirement that you repay the company for the training.  Of
>> >>>> course,
>> >>>> they pro-rated the cost over two years and made the payments for 
>> >>>> your
>> >>>> as
>> >>>> long as you worked for them.  But if you found it necessary to 
>> >>>> leave,
>> >>>> you
>> >>>> were on the hook for the pro-rated part of the money you owe.  This
>> >>>> makes it
>> >>>> difficult to leave if you are unhappy with the working situation.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    After I completed the training with my instructor, I began to
>> learn
>> >>>> things I never knew.  I knew that truck drivers were typically away
>> >>>> from
>> >>>> home for months at a time.  I never knew that they are not covered 
>> >>>> by
>> >>>> the
>> >>>> wage and hour laws (overtime?  What is that?).  Truck drivers don't
>> get
>> >>>> overtime even though they constantly work in excess of sixty hours
>> per
>> >>>> week.
>> >>>> They get paid for the miles they drive and (on occasion) for loading
>> or
>> >>>> unloading a truck, not for the time they work.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    Many responsibilities that truck drivers perform are without any
>> >>>> compensation.  The Department of Transportation requires that they
>> >>>> perform a
>> >>>> complete and thorough pre-trip safety inspection each day, which
>> takes
>> >>>> fifteen minutes of their time.  They receive no compensation for
>> their
>> >>>> time
>> >>>> to perform this.  When they weigh and balance a truck to make sure
>> the
>> >>>> load
>> >>>> is legal on the highway, they receive no compensation for that,
>> either.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    When they hitch or unhitch a trailer, they receive no 
>> >>>> compensation
>> >>>> for
>> >>>> that task.  When a shipper or receiver makes them stand around and
>> wait
>> >>>> for
>> >>>> their load to be loaded or unloaded from a trailer, the driver
>> receives
>> >>>> no
>> >>>> compensation for the time he is there idle while the shipper or
>> >>>> receiver
>> >>>> focuses on other things (unless he is paid for loading or unloading,
>> >>>> which
>> >>>> isn't often).
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    And the driver is never guaranteed to get a shipment to
>> move.  There
>> >>>> were a number of times where I sat at a truck stop in a strange city
>> >>>> with no
>> >>>> load.  Our company compensated us forty dollars per day if they had
>> no
>> >>>> load
>> >>>> for us.  Imagine that, only forty dollars for a single day of your
>> life
>> >>>> (and
>> >>>> not all drivers even get that) away from your family, community, and
>> >>>> friends.  And the per mile rates for new drivers are very low.  One 
>> >>>> I
>> >>>> was
>> >>>> asked to pick up a trailer, weigh it to make sure it was legally
>> >>>> balanced,
>> >>>> and transport it to the nearest company terminal for
>> >>>> reassignment to another driver.  For my several hours of work, I
>> >>>> received
>> >>>> approximately twelve dollars for my efforts.  It amounted to less
>> than
>> >>>> minimum wage.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    Truck drivers get no respect.  Once when I was at a truckstop 
>> >>>> near
>> >>>> the
>> >>>> Canadian border in Maine, a driver told me that his CB handle was
>> >>>> 'Caucasian
>> >>>> scumbag'.  He said that he chose that handle because of what his
>> father
>> >>>> (also a truck driver) told him.  Truck driving is an honorable
>> >>>> profession,
>> >>>> but you will never get any respect.  Sadly, I found myself agreeing
>> >>>> with
>> >>>> him.  A few examples follow.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    Once I made a delivery at a warehouse.  After 'bumping the dock'
>> (an
>> >>>> expression used that means you have parked the trailer at the 
>> >>>> loading
>> >>>> dock
>> >>>> so it can be loaded or unloaded), I found a door marked 'driver's
>> >>>> entrance'.
>> >>>> When I stepped inside the door, I found myself standing inside of a
>> >>>> cage
>> >>>> (subhuman treatment).
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    I once made a pickup at a major customer.  As my hours were 
>> >>>> almost
>> >>>> used
>> >>>> up when I made the pickup, I parked the truck outside the front gate
>> in
>> >>>> an
>> >>>> area where truckers were allowed to park and get the required time 
>> >>>> in
>> >>>> the
>> >>>> sleeper before they were allowed to drive again.  When I walked back
>> to
>> >>>> the
>> >>>> gate requesting to use the restroom, they refused saying that
>> driver's
>> >>>> weren't allowed to use the restrooms in the facility.  I had to go
>> and
>> >>>> relieve myself in the middle of an open field because there was no
>> >>>> other
>> >>>> place provided for the drivers.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    People often feel anger towards truck drivers because of the
>> manner
>> >>>> in
>> >>>> which they drive on the open highways.  I did not engage in such
>> >>>> driving and
>> >>>> I did not approve of those who did.  But think of what it cost me.
>> >>>> Slowing
>> >>>> down reduced the amount of money I made.  Remember that many of the
>> >>>> lesser
>> >>>> experienced drivers are not all that well paid (contrary to the
>> stories
>> >>>> about how well truck drivers are paid).  When you are paid by the
>> mile
>> >>>> at
>> >>>> such a rate as twenty-seven cents a mile and only allowed to drive
>> for
>> >>>> a
>> >>>> limited number of hours, making more money requires that you floor
>> it.
>> >>>> When
>> >>>> a driver is caught in a traffic jam, he is sitting there burning his
>> >>>> driving
>> >>>> hours and getting no compensation for it.  He cannot drive extra
>> hours
>> >>>> to
>> >>>> make up for it or the Department of Transportation will fine him 
>> >>>> when
>> >>>> they
>> >>>> audit his driving logbook.  To that end, some drivers falsify their
>> >>>> logbook
>> >>>> to drive more miles.  This means that they are driving over the
>> number
>> >>>> of
>> >>>> hours it is safe for a person's body to be alert enough to handle an
>> >>>> eighty-thousand pound multi-vehicle truck and creates an additional
>> >>>> hazard.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    Truck drivers would like to see that changed, but it's difficult.
>> >>>> 'Over
>> >>>> the road' drivers are away from home for months at a time.  Because
>> of
>> >>>> that
>> >>>> they don't get to vote.  Politicians look at those statistics and
>> they
>> >>>> realize that spending time helping truck drivers does not yield them
>> >>>> additional votes.  This does not motivate the politicians to make
>> >>>> things any
>> >>>> easier for them.  Once, a driver told me that he had tried to get an
>> >>>> absentee ballot.  He was asked where he'd be on election day.  He
>> told
>> >>>> them
>> >>>> he had no way of knowing because he was sent to different places
>> often
>> >>>> on
>> >>>> only a few hours notice.  Because he couldn't tell them where he'd 
>> >>>> be
>> >>>> on
>> >>>> election day, they denied him an absentee ballot.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    As long as we continue to pay our over the road drivers 'by the
>> >>>> mile'
>> >>>> instead of by the hour and pay them for the things truck drivers do
>> for
>> >>>> no
>> >>>> compensation every day, the way many truck drivers operate their
>> >>>> vehicles is
>> >>>> not going to change.  There is significant legislative reform needed
>> >>>> but no
>> >>>> political incentive to perform it.  And many of these good people
>> >>>> continue
>> >>>> to suffer while making a living to support their families (with whom
>> >>>> they
>> >>>> are able to spend very little time with).  The next time you enjoy
>> your
>> >>>> breakfast, buy nice new clothes at the store, fill up your tank with
>> >>>> gasoline, or partake of any number of other countless things, you
>> >>>> should
>> >>>> remember that truck drivers brought those materials to you.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    Imagine if the trucks stopped rolling for a week.  We'd 
>> >>>> experience
>> >>>> gas
>> >>>> shortages, food shortages, and have to learn to do without many
>> things.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    When a driver is involved in a traffic accident, it isn't whether
>> or
>> >>>> not
>> >>>> he is at fault that matters.  You may have run into him but the
>> >>>> question is
>> >>>> could he have done something to prevent it from happening?  Even if
>> he
>> >>>> was
>> >>>> not at fault in the accident, it often is still reported on his
>> driving
>> >>>> record as 'preventable' (which stacks against him when his driving
>> >>>> record is
>> >>>> reviewed for insurance or for possible employment with a different
>> >>>> trucking
>> >>>> company).  Imagine that, you caused the accident but they hold it
>> >>>> against
>> >>>> the truck driver anyway.  He is responsible for managing *your*
>> driving
>> >>>> safety habits.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    These dramatically under appreciated people live a lifestyle that
>> I
>> >>>> don't understand how they continue to live day in and day out year
>> >>>> after
>> >>>> year.  Essentially they are slaves to our system and we continue to
>> >>>> take
>> >>>> advantage of them paying many of them low wages and working them at 
>> >>>> a
>> >>>> schedule that would cause most of us to experience complete
>> exhaustion.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>    My hat is off to them and I think about them from time to
>> time.  God
>> >>>> bless our truck drivers.
>> >>>>
>> >>>>
>> >>>> _______________________________________________
>> >>>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >>>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >>>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >>>>
>> >>>
>> >>>
>> >>>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >
>>
>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>>
>
>
>
> -- 
> Rick Peek
> Tech450 at gmail.com
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net 




From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Thu Jun 15 11:54:37 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 11:54:37 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] truckers
References: <20060615093243.C98FDA51@resin06.mta.everyone.net>
Message-ID: <00c901c6909c$63009bc0$6101a8c0@Lauren>

This is probably true of most jobs. The newcomers have little or no work 
ethics and could care less about anything but the "buck". They give about 
10% or less on the job.

The older worker has respect for his job, others and America.  Many give 
100% or more.
 The difference is amazing in the two workers.

The sad part is that the newcomers are overtaking the older workers and 
America is suffering.
 In my role as an administrator for 27 yrs, I hired and terminated RN's and 
others and I would see this over and over.
For some unknown reason, 1/2 of the population thinks that America owes them 
a living( truckers included)

The system is totally messed up and no relief in sight!
Susan


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 11:32 AM
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers


>    Regretfully, that is true of the newcomers.
>
>    They drug themselves up because they have to keep going.
>
>    I never did any of that.  And I made diddly squat.  That was one of the 
> reasons I gave it up.
>
>    It's a system that rewards those who take dangerous risks and penalizes 
> those who break the law.
>
>    Yes, it's messed up.
>
>    Regards,
>
>
>
>                                           Fred
>
>
> --- machen2081 at bellsouth.net wrote:
>
> From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>, "Sansom Class of 1972" 
> <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:50:13 -0500
>
> Fred,
> The only way they can make acceptable money is to speed?  Putting hundreds
> of thousands of lives at risk every day on the road including their
> own----for them to make some money?
> Yea they're speeding all right---with the crap that they are ingesting in 
> a
> pill form.
>
> I was a hemodialysis RN for 27 years and I can't begin to tell you the
> number of truckers that I have dialyzed over this period of time because 
> of
> their long term drug abuse. This group was the hardest group to work with
> due to their non-compliance, disrespect for authority figures and 
> continued
> drug abuse.
>
> No Fred, I wouldn't get behind a wheel and speed just to increase my
> earnings.. I'm just not made that way.  I have respect for human life.
> Period.
>
> Transport the goods via railroad. Utilize as few trucks as possible.  As 
> for
> me, I'm sick of their attitudes---they don't own the roads!
>
> You're right about one thing---one bad apple spoils the whole bunch---this
> goes for everything in life
>
> Susan
>
>
> ----- Original Message ----- 
> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> To: <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 10:26 AM
> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>
>
>> Yes, Susan,
>>
>>     There is drug testing before they can even drive.  And they are
>> subject to surprised, unannounced drug testing, too.  I've been tested a
>> number of times, myself, all negative.
>>
>>     Well, you'd probably speed too if you were economically enslaved and
>> the only way to make acceptable money was to speed.  Don't you think we
>> could change the law to fix that?
>>
>>     I've been around the truck drivers.  Mostly, they are good people
>> trying to make a living.  And remember, it only takes one or two negative
>> folks in a stereotyped group (ah, that word) to make a lot of good people
>> look bad.
>>
>>     We live lifestyles that we'd never live if these folks didn't do this
>> work for us.  Remember that.  When we pass laws guaranteeing wages, we
>> exempt them from the same laws we make to protect ourselves.
>>
>>     Regards,
>>
>>
>>
>>                                             Fred
>>
>>
>> --- tech450 at gmail.com wrote:
>>
>> From: "Rick Peek" <tech450 at gmail.com>
>> To: "Sansom Class of 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:13:55 -0500
>>
>> Hey Susan,
>> My sentiments on truckers are with you also. Driving from Gadsden to 
>> B'ham
>> on the interstate for 8 years, all my dealings with truckers have been
>> negative also. I have been run off the road several times myself and have
>> seen them cause numerous accidents, some of which I barely missed being 
>> in
>> myself. I have hit debris many times that was left in the road by 
>> truckers
>> and almost made me wreck and once hit some scrap metal that fell off a
>> truck
>> and shredded my new tires and almost made me wreck. I have also had my
>> winsheild cracked and paint knocked off by flying rocks that fell off
>> trucks. I'm on your side.
>>
>> Rick P.
>>
>>
>> On 6/15/06, machen2081 at bellsouth.net <machen2081 at bellsouth.net> wrote:
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Ah Fred,
>>> I read and re-read your article with great interest.  I wonder why you
>>> would put so much time and energy into such an article.
>>>
>>> You see truck drivers really strike a chord with me and I'll tell you
>>> why.
>>> I'm sure there are many great truck drivers on the road with a safe
>>> driving
>>> record. I haven't met many. You stated that people feel anger towards
>>> truck
>>> drivers because of the manner in which they drive on the open
>>> highway.  You
>>> are so correct.   My article may offend you....
>>>
>>> In 1984, I was taking my mother to and from Birmingham for her chemo
>>> treatments three times per week.  On one Wednesday afternoon, I was
>>> driving
>>> her red car home with her reclined in the riders side. I was on the left
>>> side of  highway I-59 and a "wonderful"truck driver flew by and took off
>>> the
>>> entire side of her car( my mother's side.) He swerved over into my lane.
>>>
>>> He never stopped and kept going at approx 90 miles per hr. I'm sure to
>>> deliver his goods to a store! I had to chase him down and lucky for us a
>>> statetrooper was a few miles away.
>>> I finally got the truck to stop. The driver jumped out(all 4'10" of him
>>> and
>>> proceeded to cuss me out and even hit me.I was pregnant at the time)
>>> He was stoned out of his mind. At this point,  I was all over him and
>>> since
>>> my mother was only slightly injured she had to pull me off of him. He
>>> denied
>>> the hit and run---cars were pulled over for witnesses and the trooper 
>>> had
>>> arrived.
>>> Long story short---This precious trucker was stoned on Demerol, morphine
>>> and
>>> being serviced by his boyfriend(also stoned)when he nearly killed us. 
>>> Red
>>> paint was all over his wheels--he went to jail with many charges!!! This
>>> wasn't the first time for him either.
>>> How do these guys pass drug testing?  Is there drug testing?
>>>
>>> Like you said.... It isn't whether or not he's at fault that matters. 
>>> You
>>> may have run into him but the question is.. could he have done something
>>> to
>>> prevent it from happening?    You figure it out!
>>>
>>> My parents live next door to a trucker ....This trucker steals goods,
>>> lets
>>> his 14yr drive his 18wheeler on long trips while he sleeps, and is
>>> addicted
>>> to crystal meth.
>>>
>>> My daughter and I just went to Anniston yesterday and were run off the
>>> road
>>> by a 18 wheeler and then the thing kept
>>> chasing us for miles. I called the police but the truck had left by that
>>> time. A report was taken.
>>>
>>> As you can see, I have little respect for truckers. My dealings have not
>>> been good. Many are slaves to drugs to keep them going these long,
>>> grueling
>>> hours.
>>> My hats are off to the good ones.
>>> Susan
>>>
>>>
>>> >>> ----- Original Message -----
>>> >>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>>> >>> To: "Rebels 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>>> >>> Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2006 8:52 PM
>>> >>> Subject: [Rebels1972] Economic Slavery on the Highways
>>> >>>
>>> >>>
>>> >>>>    I'd like to share some ideas about some of the people who make
>>> this
>>> >>>> country great.  They are often the most unappreciated people in the
>>> >>>> world.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    We take them so much for granted despite all that they
>>> do.  Everyone
>>> >>>> seems to think that the goods on the shelf at your store just 
>>> >>>> appear
>>> >>>> there
>>> >>>> magically.  The materials to build your home, school, or workplace
>>> were
>>> >>>> not
>>> >>>> always there.  The fuel that makes your car run does not just 
>>> >>>> appear
>>> at
>>> >>>> the
>>> >>>> pump.  And there are many other material goods we rely on to
>>> >>>> maintain
>>> >>>> our
>>> >>>> standard of living.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    There are thousands of good Americans that transport these
>>> materials
>>> >>>> to
>>> >>>> us.  They aren't heralded and they get no fanfare.  Man live a
>>> >>>> lifestyle of
>>> >>>> separation from their families and work an incredible number of
>>> hours.
>>> >>>> It
>>> >>>> is their plight I wish to discuss.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    When the economy went sour at the end of 2001, I spoke with a
>>> >>>> recruiter
>>> >>>> for a national trucking company, she arranged for me to travel to
>>> >>>> Memphis,
>>> >>>> Tennessee and attend a three week school that would help me get a
>>> Class
>>> >>>> A
>>> >>>> commercial driver's license with all the required endorsements and
>>> the
>>> >>>> training required for the company to hire me as an over the road
>>> truck
>>> >>>> driver.  The cost of attending the truck school was over five
>>> thousand
>>> >>>> dollars and I was expected to be responsible for the cost myself. 
>>> >>>> I
>>> >>>> was not
>>> >>>> compensated in any way for the time I spent in school.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    I went to truck driving school with a lot of people from
>>> >>>> different
>>> >>>> parts
>>> >>>> of the country and different backgrounds.  After we completed our
>>> first
>>> >>>> week
>>> >>>> in school, we passed our written exams to get our learner's permits
>>> and
>>> >>>> our
>>> >>>> medical certificates, which were required to operate the big
>>> >>>> eighteen
>>> >>>> wheelers.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    The next week was range training.  We learned all manner of
>>> backing.
>>> >>>> Backing was not like backing a car.  It required a whole different
>>> >>>> twist.
>>> >>>> To back a truck to the right one must turn the wheel to the left
>>> until
>>> >>>> the
>>> >>>> truck jacks to the right.  Then you turn the wheel to the right to
>>> >>>> follow
>>> >>>> the trailer and keep it on the right path.  Even backing in a
>>> straight
>>> >>>> line
>>> >>>> was difficult.  But we learned our required backing skills during
>>> >>>> the
>>> >>>> second
>>> >>>> week and went on for the road training.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    We drove all over western Tennessee, eastern Arkansas, and
>>> northern
>>> >>>> Mississippi.  To the end of the third week we completed our 
>>> >>>> training
>>> >>>> and
>>> >>>> passed our road tests.  When we returned to school the following
>>> week,
>>> >>>> we
>>> >>>> were taken to the DMV to get our Class A commercial driver's
>>> >>>> licenses
>>> >>>> and
>>> >>>> late we were assigned to a driver who would train us while we were
>>> >>>> actually
>>> >>>> transporting goods all over the country.  We were paid only fifty
>>> >>>> dollars
>>> >>>> per day while we trained regardless of the miles driven.  Since a
>>> >>>> driver
>>> >>>> often drives between four and five hundred miles per shift, that
>>> >>>> amounts to
>>> >>>> as little as ten cents per mile or less.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    These three weeks of driver training was done with no
>>> >>>> compensation
>>> >>>> and a
>>> >>>> legal requirement that you repay the company for the training.  Of
>>> >>>> course,
>>> >>>> they pro-rated the cost over two years and made the payments for
>>> >>>> your
>>> >>>> as
>>> >>>> long as you worked for them.  But if you found it necessary to
>>> >>>> leave,
>>> >>>> you
>>> >>>> were on the hook for the pro-rated part of the money you owe.  This
>>> >>>> makes it
>>> >>>> difficult to leave if you are unhappy with the working situation.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    After I completed the training with my instructor, I began to
>>> learn
>>> >>>> things I never knew.  I knew that truck drivers were typically away
>>> >>>> from
>>> >>>> home for months at a time.  I never knew that they are not covered
>>> >>>> by
>>> >>>> the
>>> >>>> wage and hour laws (overtime?  What is that?).  Truck drivers don't
>>> get
>>> >>>> overtime even though they constantly work in excess of sixty hours
>>> per
>>> >>>> week.
>>> >>>> They get paid for the miles they drive and (on occasion) for 
>>> >>>> loading
>>> or
>>> >>>> unloading a truck, not for the time they work.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    Many responsibilities that truck drivers perform are without any
>>> >>>> compensation.  The Department of Transportation requires that they
>>> >>>> perform a
>>> >>>> complete and thorough pre-trip safety inspection each day, which
>>> takes
>>> >>>> fifteen minutes of their time.  They receive no compensation for
>>> their
>>> >>>> time
>>> >>>> to perform this.  When they weigh and balance a truck to make sure
>>> the
>>> >>>> load
>>> >>>> is legal on the highway, they receive no compensation for that,
>>> either.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    When they hitch or unhitch a trailer, they receive no
>>> >>>> compensation
>>> >>>> for
>>> >>>> that task.  When a shipper or receiver makes them stand around and
>>> wait
>>> >>>> for
>>> >>>> their load to be loaded or unloaded from a trailer, the driver
>>> receives
>>> >>>> no
>>> >>>> compensation for the time he is there idle while the shipper or
>>> >>>> receiver
>>> >>>> focuses on other things (unless he is paid for loading or 
>>> >>>> unloading,
>>> >>>> which
>>> >>>> isn't often).
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    And the driver is never guaranteed to get a shipment to
>>> move.  There
>>> >>>> were a number of times where I sat at a truck stop in a strange 
>>> >>>> city
>>> >>>> with no
>>> >>>> load.  Our company compensated us forty dollars per day if they had
>>> no
>>> >>>> load
>>> >>>> for us.  Imagine that, only forty dollars for a single day of your
>>> life
>>> >>>> (and
>>> >>>> not all drivers even get that) away from your family, community, 
>>> >>>> and
>>> >>>> friends.  And the per mile rates for new drivers are very low.  One
>>> >>>> I
>>> >>>> was
>>> >>>> asked to pick up a trailer, weigh it to make sure it was legally
>>> >>>> balanced,
>>> >>>> and transport it to the nearest company terminal for
>>> >>>> reassignment to another driver.  For my several hours of work, I
>>> >>>> received
>>> >>>> approximately twelve dollars for my efforts.  It amounted to less
>>> than
>>> >>>> minimum wage.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    Truck drivers get no respect.  Once when I was at a truckstop
>>> >>>> near
>>> >>>> the
>>> >>>> Canadian border in Maine, a driver told me that his CB handle was
>>> >>>> 'Caucasian
>>> >>>> scumbag'.  He said that he chose that handle because of what his
>>> father
>>> >>>> (also a truck driver) told him.  Truck driving is an honorable
>>> >>>> profession,
>>> >>>> but you will never get any respect.  Sadly, I found myself agreeing
>>> >>>> with
>>> >>>> him.  A few examples follow.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    Once I made a delivery at a warehouse.  After 'bumping the dock'
>>> (an
>>> >>>> expression used that means you have parked the trailer at the
>>> >>>> loading
>>> >>>> dock
>>> >>>> so it can be loaded or unloaded), I found a door marked 'driver's
>>> >>>> entrance'.
>>> >>>> When I stepped inside the door, I found myself standing inside of a
>>> >>>> cage
>>> >>>> (subhuman treatment).
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    I once made a pickup at a major customer.  As my hours were
>>> >>>> almost
>>> >>>> used
>>> >>>> up when I made the pickup, I parked the truck outside the front 
>>> >>>> gate
>>> in
>>> >>>> an
>>> >>>> area where truckers were allowed to park and get the required time
>>> >>>> in
>>> >>>> the
>>> >>>> sleeper before they were allowed to drive again.  When I walked 
>>> >>>> back
>>> to
>>> >>>> the
>>> >>>> gate requesting to use the restroom, they refused saying that
>>> driver's
>>> >>>> weren't allowed to use the restrooms in the facility.  I had to go
>>> and
>>> >>>> relieve myself in the middle of an open field because there was no
>>> >>>> other
>>> >>>> place provided for the drivers.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    People often feel anger towards truck drivers because of the
>>> manner
>>> >>>> in
>>> >>>> which they drive on the open highways.  I did not engage in such
>>> >>>> driving and
>>> >>>> I did not approve of those who did.  But think of what it cost me.
>>> >>>> Slowing
>>> >>>> down reduced the amount of money I made.  Remember that many of the
>>> >>>> lesser
>>> >>>> experienced drivers are not all that well paid (contrary to the
>>> stories
>>> >>>> about how well truck drivers are paid).  When you are paid by the
>>> mile
>>> >>>> at
>>> >>>> such a rate as twenty-seven cents a mile and only allowed to drive
>>> for
>>> >>>> a
>>> >>>> limited number of hours, making more money requires that you floor
>>> it.
>>> >>>> When
>>> >>>> a driver is caught in a traffic jam, he is sitting there burning 
>>> >>>> his
>>> >>>> driving
>>> >>>> hours and getting no compensation for it.  He cannot drive extra
>>> hours
>>> >>>> to
>>> >>>> make up for it or the Department of Transportation will fine him
>>> >>>> when
>>> >>>> they
>>> >>>> audit his driving logbook.  To that end, some drivers falsify their
>>> >>>> logbook
>>> >>>> to drive more miles.  This means that they are driving over the
>>> number
>>> >>>> of
>>> >>>> hours it is safe for a person's body to be alert enough to handle 
>>> >>>> an
>>> >>>> eighty-thousand pound multi-vehicle truck and creates an additional
>>> >>>> hazard.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    Truck drivers would like to see that changed, but it's 
>>> >>>> difficult.
>>> >>>> 'Over
>>> >>>> the road' drivers are away from home for months at a time.  Because
>>> of
>>> >>>> that
>>> >>>> they don't get to vote.  Politicians look at those statistics and
>>> they
>>> >>>> realize that spending time helping truck drivers does not yield 
>>> >>>> them
>>> >>>> additional votes.  This does not motivate the politicians to make
>>> >>>> things any
>>> >>>> easier for them.  Once, a driver told me that he had tried to get 
>>> >>>> an
>>> >>>> absentee ballot.  He was asked where he'd be on election day.  He
>>> told
>>> >>>> them
>>> >>>> he had no way of knowing because he was sent to different places
>>> often
>>> >>>> on
>>> >>>> only a few hours notice.  Because he couldn't tell them where he'd
>>> >>>> be
>>> >>>> on
>>> >>>> election day, they denied him an absentee ballot.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    As long as we continue to pay our over the road drivers 'by the
>>> >>>> mile'
>>> >>>> instead of by the hour and pay them for the things truck drivers do
>>> for
>>> >>>> no
>>> >>>> compensation every day, the way many truck drivers operate their
>>> >>>> vehicles is
>>> >>>> not going to change.  There is significant legislative reform 
>>> >>>> needed
>>> >>>> but no
>>> >>>> political incentive to perform it.  And many of these good people
>>> >>>> continue
>>> >>>> to suffer while making a living to support their families (with 
>>> >>>> whom
>>> >>>> they
>>> >>>> are able to spend very little time with).  The next time you enjoy
>>> your
>>> >>>> breakfast, buy nice new clothes at the store, fill up your tank 
>>> >>>> with
>>> >>>> gasoline, or partake of any number of other countless things, you
>>> >>>> should
>>> >>>> remember that truck drivers brought those materials to you.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    Imagine if the trucks stopped rolling for a week.  We'd
>>> >>>> experience
>>> >>>> gas
>>> >>>> shortages, food shortages, and have to learn to do without many
>>> things.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    When a driver is involved in a traffic accident, it isn't 
>>> >>>> whether
>>> or
>>> >>>> not
>>> >>>> he is at fault that matters.  You may have run into him but the
>>> >>>> question is
>>> >>>> could he have done something to prevent it from happening?  Even if
>>> he
>>> >>>> was
>>> >>>> not at fault in the accident, it often is still reported on his
>>> driving
>>> >>>> record as 'preventable' (which stacks against him when his driving
>>> >>>> record is
>>> >>>> reviewed for insurance or for possible employment with a different
>>> >>>> trucking
>>> >>>> company).  Imagine that, you caused the accident but they hold it
>>> >>>> against
>>> >>>> the truck driver anyway.  He is responsible for managing *your*
>>> driving
>>> >>>> safety habits.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    These dramatically under appreciated people live a lifestyle 
>>> >>>> that
>>> I
>>> >>>> don't understand how they continue to live day in and day out year
>>> >>>> after
>>> >>>> year.  Essentially they are slaves to our system and we continue to
>>> >>>> take
>>> >>>> advantage of them paying many of them low wages and working them at
>>> >>>> a
>>> >>>> schedule that would cause most of us to experience complete
>>> exhaustion.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>    My hat is off to them and I think about them from time to
>>> time.  God
>>> >>>> bless our truck drivers.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>> _______________________________________________
>>> >>>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>>> >>>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>>> >>>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>
>>> >>>
>>> >>>
>>> >>
>>> >>
>>> >>
>>> >
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>>>
>>
>>
>>
>> -- 
>> Rick Peek
>> Tech450 at gmail.com
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>
> 




From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Thu Jun 15 13:53:15 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 13:53:15 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] truckers
References: <20060615093243.C98FDA51@resin06.mta.everyone.net>
	<00c901c6909c$63009bc0$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<010a01c690a9$b214d3e0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
Message-ID: <016101c690ac$f61b3270$6101a8c0@Lauren>

I'm all for supporting family and such.

Today's truckers need to incorporate this and have some safety concerns.
I spoke of my parent's neighbor---he rakes in approx $3000.-$3500 per week. 
Pretty good for a trucker, huh?
Most of it goes for crystal meth.    His family travels with him and when 
they don't his 14yr old does.  Kid never goes to school.

The entire trucking industry needs re-vamping but then again what industry 
doesn't?

Remember,   I'm RN -- totally 100% ( and proud of it)

Susan


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 1:29 PM
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers


> Susan,
>
>    There is relief we could reach.
>
>    Truckers don't think the world owes them a living.  Many of them are
> just trying to support their families and pay for their homes and pay 
> their
> taxes.  They don't have the luxury of having their family around when 
> their
> driving shift ends (the over the road ones, I'm refering to).  It's a hard
> life.  I've lived it and I know.  I chose not to continue living that way.
> I was out about three thousand dollars for my driver training when I quit,
> too.  Fortunately, I was able to come up with it.  Others aren't so lucky.
>
>    You're right about the work ethic.  Nonetheless, if we outlawed paying
> by the mile and paid them by the hour plus made them entitled to be paid 
> for
> the things they are required to do that they are not currently paid for, 
> it
> would change.  As with most solutions, it wouldn't solve everything.  But 
> it
> would be a great start.
>
>    I doubt there's anyone here that would take a job and work for free.
> Truckers are required to for a lot of what they do.  They don't get
> reimbursed for the meals they get when they travel.  They don't get to 
> sleep
> at a hotel as we do when our employers send us traveling.  It comes out of
> their pocket.
>
>    Susan, there was no excuse for that trucker and I won't make excuses 
> for
> him.  He belonged in jail and I hope that he is rotting there.  But 
> remember
> that in any profession, there are bad apples.  That's true all the way 
> from
> the educators to the professionals, to the vocational, to the unskilled
> workers as well.
>
>    When I finished my shift and sat in the truckers section in the truck
> stop restaurants, I got a chance to get to know some of these people.  I 
> was
> amazed at the insights of their political views and the diverse 
> backgrounds
> that many of them came from.   I didn't always agree with them, but I 
> could
> see why they took that position and that many of them had really thought
> things through.  The caliber of some of those people overwhelmed me at
> times.
>
>    Remember, I'm part trucker (and proud of it).
>
>    Regards,
>
>
>
>
> Fred
>
>
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> Cc: "fred atkinson" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 12:54 PM
> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>
>
>> This is probably true of most jobs. The newcomers have little or no work
>> ethics and could care less about anything but the "buck". They give about
>> 10% or less on the job.
>>
>> The older worker has respect for his job, others and America.  Many give
>> 100% or more.
>>  The difference is amazing in the two workers.
>>
>> The sad part is that the newcomers are overtaking the older workers and
>> America is suffering.
>>  In my role as an administrator for 27 yrs, I hired and terminated RN's
> and
>> others and I would see this over and over.
>> For some unknown reason, 1/2 of the population thinks that America owes
> them
>> a living( truckers included)
>>
>> The system is totally messed up and no relief in sight!
>> Susan
>>
>>
>> ----- Original Message -----
>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 11:32 AM
>> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>>
>>
>> >    Regretfully, that is true of the newcomers.
>> >
>> >    They drug themselves up because they have to keep going.
>> >
>> >    I never did any of that.  And I made diddly squat.  That was one of
> the
>> > reasons I gave it up.
>> >
>> >    It's a system that rewards those who take dangerous risks and
> penalizes
>> > those who break the law.
>> >
>> >    Yes, it's messed up.
>> >
>> >    Regards,
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> >                                           Fred
>> >
>> >
>> > --- machen2081 at bellsouth.net wrote:
>> >
>> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> > To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>, "Sansom Class of 1972"
>> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> > Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:50:13 -0500
>> >
>> > Fred,
>> > The only way they can make acceptable money is to speed?  Putting
> hundreds
>> > of thousands of lives at risk every day on the road including their
>> > own----for them to make some money?
>> > Yea they're speeding all right---with the crap that they are ingesting
> in
>> > a
>> > pill form.
>> >
>> > I was a hemodialysis RN for 27 years and I can't begin to tell you the
>> > number of truckers that I have dialyzed over this period of time 
>> > because
>> > of
>> > their long term drug abuse. This group was the hardest group to work
> with
>> > due to their non-compliance, disrespect for authority figures and
>> > continued
>> > drug abuse.
>> >
>> > No Fred, I wouldn't get behind a wheel and speed just to increase my
>> > earnings.. I'm just not made that way.  I have respect for human life.
>> > Period.
>> >
>> > Transport the goods via railroad. Utilize as few trucks as possible. 
>> > As
>> > for
>> > me, I'm sick of their attitudes---they don't own the roads!
>> >
>> > You're right about one thing---one bad apple spoils the whole
> bunch---this
>> > goes for everything in life
>> >
>> > Susan
>> >
>> >
>> > ----- Original Message -----
>> > From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> > To: <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 10:26 AM
>> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >
>> >
>> >> Yes, Susan,
>> >>
>> >>     There is drug testing before they can even drive.  And they are
>> >> subject to surprised, unannounced drug testing, too.  I've been tested
> a
>> >> number of times, myself, all negative.
>> >>
>> >>     Well, you'd probably speed too if you were economically enslaved
> and
>> >> the only way to make acceptable money was to speed.  Don't you think 
>> >> we
>> >> could change the law to fix that?
>> >>
>> >>     I've been around the truck drivers.  Mostly, they are good people
>> >> trying to make a living.  And remember, it only takes one or two
> negative
>> >> folks in a stereotyped group (ah, that word) to make a lot of good
> people
>> >> look bad.
>> >>
>> >>     We live lifestyles that we'd never live if these folks didn't do
> this
>> >> work for us.  Remember that.  When we pass laws guaranteeing wages, we
>> >> exempt them from the same laws we make to protect ourselves.
>> >>
>> >>     Regards,
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>                                             Fred
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> --- tech450 at gmail.com wrote:
>> >>
>> >> From: "Rick Peek" <tech450 at gmail.com>
>> >> To: "Sansom Class of 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:13:55 -0500
>> >>
>> >> Hey Susan,
>> >> My sentiments on truckers are with you also. Driving from Gadsden to
>> >> B'ham
>> >> on the interstate for 8 years, all my dealings with truckers have been
>> >> negative also. I have been run off the road several times myself and
> have
>> >> seen them cause numerous accidents, some of which I barely missed 
>> >> being
>> >> in
>> >> myself. I have hit debris many times that was left in the road by
>> >> truckers
>> >> and almost made me wreck and once hit some scrap metal that fell off a
>> >> truck
>> >> and shredded my new tires and almost made me wreck. I have also had my
>> >> winsheild cracked and paint knocked off by flying rocks that fell off
>> >> trucks. I'm on your side.
>> >>
>> >> Rick P.
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> On 6/15/06, machen2081 at bellsouth.net <machen2081 at bellsouth.net> wrote:
>> >>>
>> >>>
>> >>>
>> >>> Ah Fred,
>> >>> I read and re-read your article with great interest.  I wonder why 
>> >>> you
>> >>> would put so much time and energy into such an article.
>> >>>
>> >>> You see truck drivers really strike a chord with me and I'll tell you
>> >>> why.
>> >>> I'm sure there are many great truck drivers on the road with a safe
>> >>> driving
>> >>> record. I haven't met many. You stated that people feel anger towards
>> >>> truck
>> >>> drivers because of the manner in which they drive on the open
>> >>> highway.  You
>> >>> are so correct.   My article may offend you....
>> >>>
>> >>> In 1984, I was taking my mother to and from Birmingham for her chemo
>> >>> treatments three times per week.  On one Wednesday afternoon, I was
>> >>> driving
>> >>> her red car home with her reclined in the riders side. I was on the
> left
>> >>> side of  highway I-59 and a "wonderful"truck driver flew by and took
> off
>> >>> the
>> >>> entire side of her car( my mother's side.) He swerved over into my
> lane.
>> >>>
>> >>> He never stopped and kept going at approx 90 miles per hr. I'm sure 
>> >>> to
>> >>> deliver his goods to a store! I had to chase him down and lucky for 
>> >>> us
> a
>> >>> statetrooper was a few miles away.
>> >>> I finally got the truck to stop. The driver jumped out(all 4'10" of
> him
>> >>> and
>> >>> proceeded to cuss me out and even hit me.I was pregnant at the time)
>> >>> He was stoned out of his mind. At this point,  I was all over him and
>> >>> since
>> >>> my mother was only slightly injured she had to pull me off of him. He
>> >>> denied
>> >>> the hit and run---cars were pulled over for witnesses and the trooper
>> >>> had
>> >>> arrived.
>> >>> Long story short---This precious trucker was stoned on Demerol,
> morphine
>> >>> and
>> >>> being serviced by his boyfriend(also stoned)when he nearly killed us.
>> >>> Red
>> >>> paint was all over his wheels--he went to jail with many charges!!!
> This
>> >>> wasn't the first time for him either.
>> >>> How do these guys pass drug testing?  Is there drug testing?
>> >>>
>> >>> Like you said.... It isn't whether or not he's at fault that matters.
>> >>> You
>> >>> may have run into him but the question is.. could he have done
> something
>> >>> to
>> >>> prevent it from happening?    You figure it out!
>> >>>
>> >>> My parents live next door to a trucker ....This trucker steals goods,
>> >>> lets
>> >>> his 14yr drive his 18wheeler on long trips while he sleeps, and is
>> >>> addicted
>> >>> to crystal meth.
>> >>>
>> >>> My daughter and I just went to Anniston yesterday and were run off 
>> >>> the
>> >>> road
>> >>> by a 18 wheeler and then the thing kept
>> >>> chasing us for miles. I called the police but the truck had left by
> that
>> >>> time. A report was taken.
>> >>>
>> >>> As you can see, I have little respect for truckers. My dealings have
> not
>> >>> been good. Many are slaves to drugs to keep them going these long,
>> >>> grueling
>> >>> hours.
>> >>> My hats are off to the good ones.
>> >>> Susan
>> >>>
>> >>>
>> >>> >>> ----- Original Message -----
>> >>> >>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >>> >>> To: "Rebels 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >>> >>> Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2006 8:52 PM
>> >>> >>> Subject: [Rebels1972] Economic Slavery on the Highways
>> >>> >>>
>> >>> >>>
>> >>> >>>>    I'd like to share some ideas about some of the people who 
>> >>> >>>> make
>> >>> this
>> >>> >>>> country great.  They are often the most unappreciated people in
> the
>> >>> >>>> world.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    We take them so much for granted despite all that they
>> >>> do.  Everyone
>> >>> >>>> seems to think that the goods on the shelf at your store just
>> >>> >>>> appear
>> >>> >>>> there
>> >>> >>>> magically.  The materials to build your home, school, or
> workplace
>> >>> were
>> >>> >>>> not
>> >>> >>>> always there.  The fuel that makes your car run does not just
>> >>> >>>> appear
>> >>> at
>> >>> >>>> the
>> >>> >>>> pump.  And there are many other material goods we rely on to
>> >>> >>>> maintain
>> >>> >>>> our
>> >>> >>>> standard of living.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    There are thousands of good Americans that transport these
>> >>> materials
>> >>> >>>> to
>> >>> >>>> us.  They aren't heralded and they get no fanfare.  Man live a
>> >>> >>>> lifestyle of
>> >>> >>>> separation from their families and work an incredible number of
>> >>> hours.
>> >>> >>>> It
>> >>> >>>> is their plight I wish to discuss.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    When the economy went sour at the end of 2001, I spoke with a
>> >>> >>>> recruiter
>> >>> >>>> for a national trucking company, she arranged for me to travel 
>> >>> >>>> to
>> >>> >>>> Memphis,
>> >>> >>>> Tennessee and attend a three week school that would help me get 
>> >>> >>>> a
>> >>> Class
>> >>> >>>> A
>> >>> >>>> commercial driver's license with all the required endorsements
> and
>> >>> the
>> >>> >>>> training required for the company to hire me as an over the road
>> >>> truck
>> >>> >>>> driver.  The cost of attending the truck school was over five
>> >>> thousand
>> >>> >>>> dollars and I was expected to be responsible for the cost 
>> >>> >>>> myself.
>> >>> >>>> I
>> >>> >>>> was not
>> >>> >>>> compensated in any way for the time I spent in school.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    I went to truck driving school with a lot of people from
>> >>> >>>> different
>> >>> >>>> parts
>> >>> >>>> of the country and different backgrounds.  After we completed 
>> >>> >>>> our
>> >>> first
>> >>> >>>> week
>> >>> >>>> in school, we passed our written exams to get our learner's
> permits
>> >>> and
>> >>> >>>> our
>> >>> >>>> medical certificates, which were required to operate the big
>> >>> >>>> eighteen
>> >>> >>>> wheelers.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    The next week was range training.  We learned all manner of
>> >>> backing.
>> >>> >>>> Backing was not like backing a car.  It required a whole
> different
>> >>> >>>> twist.
>> >>> >>>> To back a truck to the right one must turn the wheel to the left
>> >>> until
>> >>> >>>> the
>> >>> >>>> truck jacks to the right.  Then you turn the wheel to the right
> to
>> >>> >>>> follow
>> >>> >>>> the trailer and keep it on the right path.  Even backing in a
>> >>> straight
>> >>> >>>> line
>> >>> >>>> was difficult.  But we learned our required backing skills 
>> >>> >>>> during
>> >>> >>>> the
>> >>> >>>> second
>> >>> >>>> week and went on for the road training.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    We drove all over western Tennessee, eastern Arkansas, and
>> >>> northern
>> >>> >>>> Mississippi.  To the end of the third week we completed our
>> >>> >>>> training
>> >>> >>>> and
>> >>> >>>> passed our road tests.  When we returned to school the following
>> >>> week,
>> >>> >>>> we
>> >>> >>>> were taken to the DMV to get our Class A commercial driver's
>> >>> >>>> licenses
>> >>> >>>> and
>> >>> >>>> late we were assigned to a driver who would train us while we
> were
>> >>> >>>> actually
>> >>> >>>> transporting goods all over the country.  We were paid only 
>> >>> >>>> fifty
>> >>> >>>> dollars
>> >>> >>>> per day while we trained regardless of the miles driven.  Since 
>> >>> >>>> a
>> >>> >>>> driver
>> >>> >>>> often drives between four and five hundred miles per shift, that
>> >>> >>>> amounts to
>> >>> >>>> as little as ten cents per mile or less.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    These three weeks of driver training was done with no
>> >>> >>>> compensation
>> >>> >>>> and a
>> >>> >>>> legal requirement that you repay the company for the training.
> Of
>> >>> >>>> course,
>> >>> >>>> they pro-rated the cost over two years and made the payments for
>> >>> >>>> your
>> >>> >>>> as
>> >>> >>>> long as you worked for them.  But if you found it necessary to
>> >>> >>>> leave,
>> >>> >>>> you
>> >>> >>>> were on the hook for the pro-rated part of the money you owe.
> This
>> >>> >>>> makes it
>> >>> >>>> difficult to leave if you are unhappy with the working 
>> >>> >>>> situation.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    After I completed the training with my instructor, I began to
>> >>> learn
>> >>> >>>> things I never knew.  I knew that truck drivers were typically
> away
>> >>> >>>> from
>> >>> >>>> home for months at a time.  I never knew that they are not
> covered
>> >>> >>>> by
>> >>> >>>> the
>> >>> >>>> wage and hour laws (overtime?  What is that?).  Truck drivers
> don't
>> >>> get
>> >>> >>>> overtime even though they constantly work in excess of sixty
> hours
>> >>> per
>> >>> >>>> week.
>> >>> >>>> They get paid for the miles they drive and (on occasion) for
>> >>> >>>> loading
>> >>> or
>> >>> >>>> unloading a truck, not for the time they work.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    Many responsibilities that truck drivers perform are without
> any
>> >>> >>>> compensation.  The Department of Transportation requires that
> they
>> >>> >>>> perform a
>> >>> >>>> complete and thorough pre-trip safety inspection each day, which
>> >>> takes
>> >>> >>>> fifteen minutes of their time.  They receive no compensation for
>> >>> their
>> >>> >>>> time
>> >>> >>>> to perform this.  When they weigh and balance a truck to make
> sure
>> >>> the
>> >>> >>>> load
>> >>> >>>> is legal on the highway, they receive no compensation for that,
>> >>> either.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    When they hitch or unhitch a trailer, they receive no
>> >>> >>>> compensation
>> >>> >>>> for
>> >>> >>>> that task.  When a shipper or receiver makes them stand around
> and
>> >>> wait
>> >>> >>>> for
>> >>> >>>> their load to be loaded or unloaded from a trailer, the driver
>> >>> receives
>> >>> >>>> no
>> >>> >>>> compensation for the time he is there idle while the shipper or
>> >>> >>>> receiver
>> >>> >>>> focuses on other things (unless he is paid for loading or
>> >>> >>>> unloading,
>> >>> >>>> which
>> >>> >>>> isn't often).
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    And the driver is never guaranteed to get a shipment to
>> >>> move.  There
>> >>> >>>> were a number of times where I sat at a truck stop in a strange
>> >>> >>>> city
>> >>> >>>> with no
>> >>> >>>> load.  Our company compensated us forty dollars per day if they
> had
>> >>> no
>> >>> >>>> load
>> >>> >>>> for us.  Imagine that, only forty dollars for a single day of
> your
>> >>> life
>> >>> >>>> (and
>> >>> >>>> not all drivers even get that) away from your family, community,
>> >>> >>>> and
>> >>> >>>> friends.  And the per mile rates for new drivers are very low.
> One
>> >>> >>>> I
>> >>> >>>> was
>> >>> >>>> asked to pick up a trailer, weigh it to make sure it was legally
>> >>> >>>> balanced,
>> >>> >>>> and transport it to the nearest company terminal for
>> >>> >>>> reassignment to another driver.  For my several hours of work, I
>> >>> >>>> received
>> >>> >>>> approximately twelve dollars for my efforts.  It amounted to 
>> >>> >>>> less
>> >>> than
>> >>> >>>> minimum wage.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    Truck drivers get no respect.  Once when I was at a truckstop
>> >>> >>>> near
>> >>> >>>> the
>> >>> >>>> Canadian border in Maine, a driver told me that his CB handle 
>> >>> >>>> was
>> >>> >>>> 'Caucasian
>> >>> >>>> scumbag'.  He said that he chose that handle because of what his
>> >>> father
>> >>> >>>> (also a truck driver) told him.  Truck driving is an honorable
>> >>> >>>> profession,
>> >>> >>>> but you will never get any respect.  Sadly, I found myself
> agreeing
>> >>> >>>> with
>> >>> >>>> him.  A few examples follow.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    Once I made a delivery at a warehouse.  After 'bumping the
> dock'
>> >>> (an
>> >>> >>>> expression used that means you have parked the trailer at the
>> >>> >>>> loading
>> >>> >>>> dock
>> >>> >>>> so it can be loaded or unloaded), I found a door marked 
>> >>> >>>> 'driver's
>> >>> >>>> entrance'.
>> >>> >>>> When I stepped inside the door, I found myself standing inside 
>> >>> >>>> of
> a
>> >>> >>>> cage
>> >>> >>>> (subhuman treatment).
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    I once made a pickup at a major customer.  As my hours were
>> >>> >>>> almost
>> >>> >>>> used
>> >>> >>>> up when I made the pickup, I parked the truck outside the front
>> >>> >>>> gate
>> >>> in
>> >>> >>>> an
>> >>> >>>> area where truckers were allowed to park and get the required
> time
>> >>> >>>> in
>> >>> >>>> the
>> >>> >>>> sleeper before they were allowed to drive again.  When I walked
>> >>> >>>> back
>> >>> to
>> >>> >>>> the
>> >>> >>>> gate requesting to use the restroom, they refused saying that
>> >>> driver's
>> >>> >>>> weren't allowed to use the restrooms in the facility.  I had to
> go
>> >>> and
>> >>> >>>> relieve myself in the middle of an open field because there was
> no
>> >>> >>>> other
>> >>> >>>> place provided for the drivers.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    People often feel anger towards truck drivers because of the
>> >>> manner
>> >>> >>>> in
>> >>> >>>> which they drive on the open highways.  I did not engage in such
>> >>> >>>> driving and
>> >>> >>>> I did not approve of those who did.  But think of what it cost
> me.
>> >>> >>>> Slowing
>> >>> >>>> down reduced the amount of money I made.  Remember that many of
> the
>> >>> >>>> lesser
>> >>> >>>> experienced drivers are not all that well paid (contrary to the
>> >>> stories
>> >>> >>>> about how well truck drivers are paid).  When you are paid by 
>> >>> >>>> the
>> >>> mile
>> >>> >>>> at
>> >>> >>>> such a rate as twenty-seven cents a mile and only allowed to
> drive
>> >>> for
>> >>> >>>> a
>> >>> >>>> limited number of hours, making more money requires that you
> floor
>> >>> it.
>> >>> >>>> When
>> >>> >>>> a driver is caught in a traffic jam, he is sitting there burning
>> >>> >>>> his
>> >>> >>>> driving
>> >>> >>>> hours and getting no compensation for it.  He cannot drive extra
>> >>> hours
>> >>> >>>> to
>> >>> >>>> make up for it or the Department of Transportation will fine him
>> >>> >>>> when
>> >>> >>>> they
>> >>> >>>> audit his driving logbook.  To that end, some drivers falsify
> their
>> >>> >>>> logbook
>> >>> >>>> to drive more miles.  This means that they are driving over the
>> >>> number
>> >>> >>>> of
>> >>> >>>> hours it is safe for a person's body to be alert enough to 
>> >>> >>>> handle
>> >>> >>>> an
>> >>> >>>> eighty-thousand pound multi-vehicle truck and creates an
> additional
>> >>> >>>> hazard.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    Truck drivers would like to see that changed, but it's
>> >>> >>>> difficult.
>> >>> >>>> 'Over
>> >>> >>>> the road' drivers are away from home for months at a time.
> Because
>> >>> of
>> >>> >>>> that
>> >>> >>>> they don't get to vote.  Politicians look at those statistics 
>> >>> >>>> and
>> >>> they
>> >>> >>>> realize that spending time helping truck drivers does not yield
>> >>> >>>> them
>> >>> >>>> additional votes.  This does not motivate the politicians to 
>> >>> >>>> make
>> >>> >>>> things any
>> >>> >>>> easier for them.  Once, a driver told me that he had tried to 
>> >>> >>>> get
>> >>> >>>> an
>> >>> >>>> absentee ballot.  He was asked where he'd be on election day. 
>> >>> >>>> He
>> >>> told
>> >>> >>>> them
>> >>> >>>> he had no way of knowing because he was sent to different places
>> >>> often
>> >>> >>>> on
>> >>> >>>> only a few hours notice.  Because he couldn't tell them where
> he'd
>> >>> >>>> be
>> >>> >>>> on
>> >>> >>>> election day, they denied him an absentee ballot.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    As long as we continue to pay our over the road drivers 'by
> the
>> >>> >>>> mile'
>> >>> >>>> instead of by the hour and pay them for the things truck drivers
> do
>> >>> for
>> >>> >>>> no
>> >>> >>>> compensation every day, the way many truck drivers operate their
>> >>> >>>> vehicles is
>> >>> >>>> not going to change.  There is significant legislative reform
>> >>> >>>> needed
>> >>> >>>> but no
>> >>> >>>> political incentive to perform it.  And many of these good 
>> >>> >>>> people
>> >>> >>>> continue
>> >>> >>>> to suffer while making a living to support their families (with
>> >>> >>>> whom
>> >>> >>>> they
>> >>> >>>> are able to spend very little time with).  The next time you
> enjoy
>> >>> your
>> >>> >>>> breakfast, buy nice new clothes at the store, fill up your tank
>> >>> >>>> with
>> >>> >>>> gasoline, or partake of any number of other countless things, 
>> >>> >>>> you
>> >>> >>>> should
>> >>> >>>> remember that truck drivers brought those materials to you.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    Imagine if the trucks stopped rolling for a week.  We'd
>> >>> >>>> experience
>> >>> >>>> gas
>> >>> >>>> shortages, food shortages, and have to learn to do without many
>> >>> things.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    When a driver is involved in a traffic accident, it isn't
>> >>> >>>> whether
>> >>> or
>> >>> >>>> not
>> >>> >>>> he is at fault that matters.  You may have run into him but the
>> >>> >>>> question is
>> >>> >>>> could he have done something to prevent it from happening?  Even
> if
>> >>> he
>> >>> >>>> was
>> >>> >>>> not at fault in the accident, it often is still reported on his
>> >>> driving
>> >>> >>>> record as 'preventable' (which stacks against him when his
> driving
>> >>> >>>> record is
>> >>> >>>> reviewed for insurance or for possible employment with a
> different
>> >>> >>>> trucking
>> >>> >>>> company).  Imagine that, you caused the accident but they hold 
>> >>> >>>> it
>> >>> >>>> against
>> >>> >>>> the truck driver anyway.  He is responsible for managing *your*
>> >>> driving
>> >>> >>>> safety habits.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    These dramatically under appreciated people live a lifestyle
>> >>> >>>> that
>> >>> I
>> >>> >>>> don't understand how they continue to live day in and day out
> year
>> >>> >>>> after
>> >>> >>>> year.  Essentially they are slaves to our system and we continue
> to
>> >>> >>>> take
>> >>> >>>> advantage of them paying many of them low wages and working them
> at
>> >>> >>>> a
>> >>> >>>> schedule that would cause most of us to experience complete
>> >>> exhaustion.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>    My hat is off to them and I think about them from time to
>> >>> time.  God
>> >>> >>>> bless our truck drivers.
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>> _______________________________________________
>> >>> >>>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >>> >>>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >>> >>>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >>> >>>>
>> >>> >>>
>> >>> >>>
>> >>> >>>
>> >>> >>
>> >>> >>
>> >>> >>
>> >>> >
>> >>>
>> >>>
>> >>>
>> >>> _______________________________________________
>> >>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >>>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> --
>> >> Rick Peek
>> >> Tech450 at gmail.com
>> >>
>> >> _______________________________________________
>> >> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >>
>> >> _______________________________________________
>> >> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >
>> >
>>
>>
>
> 




From Jdrtiger at aol.com  Thu Jun 15 14:10:44 2006
From: Jdrtiger at aol.com (Jdrtiger at aol.com)
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 15:10:44 EDT
Subject: [Rebels1972] truckers
Message-ID: <384.4b1ed71.31c30ab4@aol.com>

Susan and the rest of the '72 Rebel Gang:  I've been out of town for 5  days 
for the Southern Baptist Convention in Greensboro, NC.  Just checked  my 
e-mails and the topic is quite relevant since I was run off I-85 in  South Carolina 
by an 18-wheeler switching lanes on me illegally.   Thankfully, I did not 
wreck the van and I am ok.... except for a few frazzled  nerves.  Granted, there 
are terrible drivers who are NOT truckers.  I  have to confess that I have the 
same opinion as Susan.  About the only  truckers I trust these days are the 
UPS, FED-EX and Wal-Mart drivers because  they seem to be less dangerous than 
the others.  Could it be that these  corporations take more responsibility for 
their drivers?  Oh well... I  could have opened another "can of worms" here.  
lol   Ya'll take  care now!  John Dale Rector
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From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Thu Jun 15 14:15:42 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 14:15:42 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] truckers
References: <384.4b1ed71.31c30ab4@aol.com>
Message-ID: <01e401c690b0$1887e1c0$6101a8c0@Lauren>

Preach it brother and thank the Lord you are safe...
Seems like many of us have had negative experiences with these "wonderful" men of America.  They really hit a raw nerve with me.
Susan
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
  To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
  Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 2:10 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers


  Susan and the rest of the '72 Rebel Gang:  I've been out of town for 5 days for the Southern Baptist Convention in Greensboro, NC.  Just checked my e-mails and the topic is quite relevant since I was run off I-85 in South Carolina by an 18-wheeler switching lanes on me illegally.  Thankfully, I did not wreck the van and I am ok.... except for a few frazzled nerves.  Granted, there are terrible drivers who are NOT truckers.  I have to confess that I have the same opinion as Susan.  About the only truckers I trust these days are the UPS, FED-EX and Wal-Mart drivers because they seem to be less dangerous than the others.  Could it be that these corporations take more responsibility for their drivers?  Oh well... I could have opened another "can of worms" here.  lol   Ya'll take care now!  John Dale Rector


------------------------------------------------------------------------------


  _______________________________________________
  Rebels1972 mailing list
  Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
  http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Thu Jun 15 14:31:00 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 15:31:00 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] truckers
References: <384.4b1ed71.31c30ab4@aol.com>
Message-ID: <003d01c690b2$3bf83ae0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

John, 

    No, your're right.  They should take more responsibility for their drivers.  Like the driver, they get paid by the mile.  Many of them (under the table, of course) encourage their drivers to exceed their limits.  

    Not a good thing for anyone.  



                                                                                                    Fred 
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
  To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
  Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 3:10 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers


  Susan and the rest of the '72 Rebel Gang:  I've been out of town for 5 days for the Southern Baptist Convention in Greensboro, NC.  Just checked my e-mails and the topic is quite relevant since I was run off I-85 in South Carolina by an 18-wheeler switching lanes on me illegally.  Thankfully, I did not wreck the van and I am ok.... except for a few frazzled nerves.  Granted, there are terrible drivers who are NOT truckers.  I have to confess that I have the same opinion as Susan.  About the only truckers I trust these days are the UPS, FED-EX and Wal-Mart drivers because they seem to be less dangerous than the others.  Could it be that these corporations take more responsibility for their drivers?  Oh well... I could have opened another "can of worms" here.  lol   Ya'll take care now!  John Dale Rector


------------------------------------------------------------------------------


  _______________________________________________
  Rebels1972 mailing list
  Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
  http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
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From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Thu Jun 15 14:45:21 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 14:45:21 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] truckers
References: <20060615093243.C98FDA51@resin06.mta.everyone.net>
	<00c901c6909c$63009bc0$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<010a01c690a9$b214d3e0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<016101c690ac$f61b3270$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<001201c690b1$fb029760$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
Message-ID: <02f701c690b4$3ce87c60$6101a8c0@Lauren>

RN's, Doctors, Pharmacists, school teachers and professors, Lab techs, 
lawyers. Addicts are everywhere.
As a RN, I have the State Board of Alabama Nursing regulating me and my 
license. I am subject to drug testing at any time.
I would never willfully harm a patient.  Is a trucker willfully harming 
himself, the public and everything else as he craws into his rig and speeds 
along cross country to make a deadline----all to make more money?

Many things need to be changed but they never will because basically John Q 
Public doesn't want them changed. When you get right down to it, the 
truckers are happy with things just the way they are.  They don't more and 
more regulations on them. You know---you are part trucker!
Susan
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 2:29 PM
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers


> Susan,
>
>    And there aren't some RNs who are using drugs to keep going on the 
> night
> shift?
>
>    Didn't mean you shouldn't be proud of it.  Just meant that there are 
> bad
> apples in your profession, too.  And that's nothing against RNs as a 
> whole.
> They are often underpaid as well.
>
>    Regards,
>
>
>
> Fred
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred atkinson"
> <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 2:53 PM
> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>
>
>> I'm all for supporting family and such.
>>
>> Today's truckers need to incorporate this and have some safety concerns.
>> I spoke of my parent's neighbor---he rakes in approx $3000.-$3500 per
> week.
>> Pretty good for a trucker, huh?
>> Most of it goes for crystal meth.    His family travels with him and when
>> they don't his 14yr old does.  Kid never goes to school.
>>
>> The entire trucking industry needs re-vamping but then again what 
>> industry
>> doesn't?
>>
>> Remember,   I'm RN -- totally 100% ( and proud of it)
>>
>> Susan
>>
>>
>> ----- Original Message -----
>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 1:29 PM
>> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>>
>>
>> > Susan,
>> >
>> >    There is relief we could reach.
>> >
>> >    Truckers don't think the world owes them a living.  Many of them are
>> > just trying to support their families and pay for their homes and pay
>> > their
>> > taxes.  They don't have the luxury of having their family around when
>> > their
>> > driving shift ends (the over the road ones, I'm refering to).  It's a
> hard
>> > life.  I've lived it and I know.  I chose not to continue living that
> way.
>> > I was out about three thousand dollars for my driver training when I
> quit,
>> > too.  Fortunately, I was able to come up with it.  Others aren't so
> lucky.
>> >
>> >    You're right about the work ethic.  Nonetheless, if we outlawed
> paying
>> > by the mile and paid them by the hour plus made them entitled to be 
>> > paid
>> > for
>> > the things they are required to do that they are not currently paid 
>> > for,
>> > it
>> > would change.  As with most solutions, it wouldn't solve everything.
> But
>> > it
>> > would be a great start.
>> >
>> >    I doubt there's anyone here that would take a job and work for free.
>> > Truckers are required to for a lot of what they do.  They don't get
>> > reimbursed for the meals they get when they travel.  They don't get to
>> > sleep
>> > at a hotel as we do when our employers send us traveling.  It comes out
> of
>> > their pocket.
>> >
>> >    Susan, there was no excuse for that trucker and I won't make excuses
>> > for
>> > him.  He belonged in jail and I hope that he is rotting there.  But
>> > remember
>> > that in any profession, there are bad apples.  That's true all the way
>> > from
>> > the educators to the professionals, to the vocational, to the unskilled
>> > workers as well.
>> >
>> >    When I finished my shift and sat in the truckers section in the 
>> > truck
>> > stop restaurants, I got a chance to get to know some of these people. 
>> > I
>> > was
>> > amazed at the insights of their political views and the diverse
>> > backgrounds
>> > that many of them came from.   I didn't always agree with them, but I
>> > could
>> > see why they took that position and that many of them had really 
>> > thought
>> > things through.  The caliber of some of those people overwhelmed me at
>> > times.
>> >
>> >    Remember, I'm part trucker (and proud of it).
>> >
>> >    Regards,
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> > Fred
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> > ----- Original Message -----
>> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> > To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> > Cc: "fred atkinson" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 12:54 PM
>> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >
>> >
>> >> This is probably true of most jobs. The newcomers have little or no
> work
>> >> ethics and could care less about anything but the "buck". They give
> about
>> >> 10% or less on the job.
>> >>
>> >> The older worker has respect for his job, others and America.  Many
> give
>> >> 100% or more.
>> >>  The difference is amazing in the two workers.
>> >>
>> >> The sad part is that the newcomers are overtaking the older workers 
>> >> and
>> >> America is suffering.
>> >>  In my role as an administrator for 27 yrs, I hired and terminated 
>> >> RN's
>> > and
>> >> others and I would see this over and over.
>> >> For some unknown reason, 1/2 of the population thinks that America 
>> >> owes
>> > them
>> >> a living( truckers included)
>> >>
>> >> The system is totally messed up and no relief in sight!
>> >> Susan
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> ----- Original Message -----
>> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 11:32 AM
>> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> >    Regretfully, that is true of the newcomers.
>> >> >
>> >> >    They drug themselves up because they have to keep going.
>> >> >
>> >> >    I never did any of that.  And I made diddly squat.  That was one
> of
>> > the
>> >> > reasons I gave it up.
>> >> >
>> >> >    It's a system that rewards those who take dangerous risks and
>> > penalizes
>> >> > those who break the law.
>> >> >
>> >> >    Yes, it's messed up.
>> >> >
>> >> >    Regards,
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >> >                                           Fred
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >> > --- machen2081 at bellsouth.net wrote:
>> >> >
>> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> > To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>, "Sansom Class of 1972"
>> >> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> > Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:50:13 -0500
>> >> >
>> >> > Fred,
>> >> > The only way they can make acceptable money is to speed?  Putting
>> > hundreds
>> >> > of thousands of lives at risk every day on the road including their
>> >> > own----for them to make some money?
>> >> > Yea they're speeding all right---with the crap that they are
> ingesting
>> > in
>> >> > a
>> >> > pill form.
>> >> >
>> >> > I was a hemodialysis RN for 27 years and I can't begin to tell you
> the
>> >> > number of truckers that I have dialyzed over this period of time
>> >> > because
>> >> > of
>> >> > their long term drug abuse. This group was the hardest group to work
>> > with
>> >> > due to their non-compliance, disrespect for authority figures and
>> >> > continued
>> >> > drug abuse.
>> >> >
>> >> > No Fred, I wouldn't get behind a wheel and speed just to increase my
>> >> > earnings.. I'm just not made that way.  I have respect for human
> life.
>> >> > Period.
>> >> >
>> >> > Transport the goods via railroad. Utilize as few trucks as possible.
>> >> > As
>> >> > for
>> >> > me, I'm sick of their attitudes---they don't own the roads!
>> >> >
>> >> > You're right about one thing---one bad apple spoils the whole
>> > bunch---this
>> >> > goes for everything in life
>> >> >
>> >> > Susan
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >> > ----- Original Message -----
>> >> > From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> > To: <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 10:26 AM
>> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >> >> Yes, Susan,
>> >> >>
>> >> >>     There is drug testing before they can even drive.  And they are
>> >> >> subject to surprised, unannounced drug testing, too.  I've been
> tested
>> > a
>> >> >> number of times, myself, all negative.
>> >> >>
>> >> >>     Well, you'd probably speed too if you were economically 
>> >> >> enslaved
>> > and
>> >> >> the only way to make acceptable money was to speed.  Don't you 
>> >> >> think
>> >> >> we
>> >> >> could change the law to fix that?
>> >> >>
>> >> >>     I've been around the truck drivers.  Mostly, they are good
> people
>> >> >> trying to make a living.  And remember, it only takes one or two
>> > negative
>> >> >> folks in a stereotyped group (ah, that word) to make a lot of good
>> > people
>> >> >> look bad.
>> >> >>
>> >> >>     We live lifestyles that we'd never live if these folks didn't 
>> >> >> do
>
>> > this
>> >> >> work for us.  Remember that.  When we pass laws guaranteeing wages,
> we
>> >> >> exempt them from the same laws we make to protect ourselves.
>> >> >>
>> >> >>     Regards,
>> >> >>
>> >> >>
>> >> >>
>> >> >>                                             Fred
>> >> >>
>> >> >>
>> >> >> --- tech450 at gmail.com wrote:
>> >> >>
>> >> >> From: "Rick Peek" <tech450 at gmail.com>
>> >> >> To: "Sansom Class of 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:13:55 -0500
>> >> >>
>> >> >> Hey Susan,
>> >> >> My sentiments on truckers are with you also. Driving from Gadsden 
>> >> >> to
>> >> >> B'ham
>> >> >> on the interstate for 8 years, all my dealings with truckers have
> been
>> >> >> negative also. I have been run off the road several times myself 
>> >> >> and
>> > have
>> >> >> seen them cause numerous accidents, some of which I barely missed
>> >> >> being
>> >> >> in
>> >> >> myself. I have hit debris many times that was left in the road by
>> >> >> truckers
>> >> >> and almost made me wreck and once hit some scrap metal that fell 
>> >> >> off
> a
>> >> >> truck
>> >> >> and shredded my new tires and almost made me wreck. I have also had
> my
>> >> >> winsheild cracked and paint knocked off by flying rocks that fell
> off
>> >> >> trucks. I'm on your side.
>> >> >>
>> >> >> Rick P.
>> >> >>
>> >> >>
>> >> >> On 6/15/06, machen2081 at bellsouth.net <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> wrote:
>> >> >>>
>> >> >>>
>> >> >>>
>> >> >>> Ah Fred,
>> >> >>> I read and re-read your article with great interest.  I wonder why
>> >> >>> you
>> >> >>> would put so much time and energy into such an article.
>> >> >>>
>> >> >>> You see truck drivers really strike a chord with me and I'll tell
> you
>> >> >>> why.
>> >> >>> I'm sure there are many great truck drivers on the road with a 
>> >> >>> safe
>> >> >>> driving
>> >> >>> record. I haven't met many. You stated that people feel anger
> towards
>> >> >>> truck
>> >> >>> drivers because of the manner in which they drive on the open
>> >> >>> highway.  You
>> >> >>> are so correct.   My article may offend you....
>> >> >>>
>> >> >>> In 1984, I was taking my mother to and from Birmingham for her
> chemo
>> >> >>> treatments three times per week.  On one Wednesday afternoon, I 
>> >> >>> was
>> >> >>> driving
>> >> >>> her red car home with her reclined in the riders side. I was on 
>> >> >>> the
>> > left
>> >> >>> side of  highway I-59 and a "wonderful"truck driver flew by and
> took
>> > off
>> >> >>> the
>> >> >>> entire side of her car( my mother's side.) He swerved over into my
>> > lane.
>> >> >>>
>> >> >>> He never stopped and kept going at approx 90 miles per hr. I'm 
>> >> >>> sure
>> >> >>> to
>> >> >>> deliver his goods to a store! I had to chase him down and lucky 
>> >> >>> for
>> >> >>> us
>> > a
>> >> >>> statetrooper was a few miles away.
>> >> >>> I finally got the truck to stop. The driver jumped out(all 4'10" 
>> >> >>> of
>> > him
>> >> >>> and
>> >> >>> proceeded to cuss me out and even hit me.I was pregnant at the
> time)
>> >> >>> He was stoned out of his mind. At this point,  I was all over him
> and
>> >> >>> since
>> >> >>> my mother was only slightly injured she had to pull me off of him.
> He
>> >> >>> denied
>> >> >>> the hit and run---cars were pulled over for witnesses and the
> trooper
>> >> >>> had
>> >> >>> arrived.
>> >> >>> Long story short---This precious trucker was stoned on Demerol,
>> > morphine
>> >> >>> and
>> >> >>> being serviced by his boyfriend(also stoned)when he nearly killed
> us.
>> >> >>> Red
>> >> >>> paint was all over his wheels--he went to jail with many 
>> >> >>> charges!!!
>> > This
>> >> >>> wasn't the first time for him either.
>> >> >>> How do these guys pass drug testing?  Is there drug testing?
>> >> >>>
>> >> >>> Like you said.... It isn't whether or not he's at fault that
> matters.
>> >> >>> You
>> >> >>> may have run into him but the question is.. could he have done
>> > something
>> >> >>> to
>> >> >>> prevent it from happening?    You figure it out!
>> >> >>>
>> >> >>> My parents live next door to a trucker ....This trucker steals
> goods,
>> >> >>> lets
>> >> >>> his 14yr drive his 18wheeler on long trips while he sleeps, and is
>> >> >>> addicted
>> >> >>> to crystal meth.
>> >> >>>
>> >> >>> My daughter and I just went to Anniston yesterday and were run off
>> >> >>> the
>> >> >>> road
>> >> >>> by a 18 wheeler and then the thing kept
>> >> >>> chasing us for miles. I called the police but the truck had left 
>> >> >>> by
>> > that
>> >> >>> time. A report was taken.
>> >> >>>
>> >> >>> As you can see, I have little respect for truckers. My dealings
> have
>> > not
>> >> >>> been good. Many are slaves to drugs to keep them going these long,
>> >> >>> grueling
>> >> >>> hours.
>> >> >>> My hats are off to the good ones.
>> >> >>> Susan
>> >> >>>
>> >> >>>
>> >> >>> >>> ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >>> >>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> >>> >>> To: "Rebels 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >>> >>> Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2006 8:52 PM
>> >> >>> >>> Subject: [Rebels1972] Economic Slavery on the Highways
>> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    I'd like to share some ideas about some of the people who
>> >> >>> >>>> make
>> >> >>> this
>> >> >>> >>>> country great.  They are often the most unappreciated people
> in
>> > the
>> >> >>> >>>> world.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    We take them so much for granted despite all that they
>> >> >>> do.  Everyone
>> >> >>> >>>> seems to think that the goods on the shelf at your store just
>> >> >>> >>>> appear
>> >> >>> >>>> there
>> >> >>> >>>> magically.  The materials to build your home, school, or
>> > workplace
>> >> >>> were
>> >> >>> >>>> not
>> >> >>> >>>> always there.  The fuel that makes your car run does not just
>> >> >>> >>>> appear
>> >> >>> at
>> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >>> >>>> pump.  And there are many other material goods we rely on to
>> >> >>> >>>> maintain
>> >> >>> >>>> our
>> >> >>> >>>> standard of living.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    There are thousands of good Americans that transport these
>> >> >>> materials
>> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> >>> >>>> us.  They aren't heralded and they get no fanfare.  Man live 
>> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >>> >>>> lifestyle of
>> >> >>> >>>> separation from their families and work an incredible number
> of
>> >> >>> hours.
>> >> >>> >>>> It
>> >> >>> >>>> is their plight I wish to discuss.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    When the economy went sour at the end of 2001, I spoke 
>> >> >>> >>>> with
> a
>> >> >>> >>>> recruiter
>> >> >>> >>>> for a national trucking company, she arranged for me to 
>> >> >>> >>>> travel
>> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> >>> >>>> Memphis,
>> >> >>> >>>> Tennessee and attend a three week school that would help me
> get
>> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >>> Class
>> >> >>> >>>> A
>> >> >>> >>>> commercial driver's license with all the required 
>> >> >>> >>>> endorsements
>> > and
>> >> >>> the
>> >> >>> >>>> training required for the company to hire me as an over the
> road
>> >> >>> truck
>> >> >>> >>>> driver.  The cost of attending the truck school was over five
>> >> >>> thousand
>> >> >>> >>>> dollars and I was expected to be responsible for the cost
>> >> >>> >>>> myself.
>> >> >>> >>>> I
>> >> >>> >>>> was not
>> >> >>> >>>> compensated in any way for the time I spent in school.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    I went to truck driving school with a lot of people from
>> >> >>> >>>> different
>> >> >>> >>>> parts
>> >> >>> >>>> of the country and different backgrounds.  After we completed
>> >> >>> >>>> our
>> >> >>> first
>> >> >>> >>>> week
>> >> >>> >>>> in school, we passed our written exams to get our learner's
>> > permits
>> >> >>> and
>> >> >>> >>>> our
>> >> >>> >>>> medical certificates, which were required to operate the big
>> >> >>> >>>> eighteen
>> >> >>> >>>> wheelers.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    The next week was range training.  We learned all manner 
>> >> >>> >>>> of
>> >> >>> backing.
>> >> >>> >>>> Backing was not like backing a car.  It required a whole
>> > different
>> >> >>> >>>> twist.
>> >> >>> >>>> To back a truck to the right one must turn the wheel to the
> left
>> >> >>> until
>> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >>> >>>> truck jacks to the right.  Then you turn the wheel to the
> right
>> > to
>> >> >>> >>>> follow
>> >> >>> >>>> the trailer and keep it on the right path.  Even backing in a
>> >> >>> straight
>> >> >>> >>>> line
>> >> >>> >>>> was difficult.  But we learned our required backing skills
>> >> >>> >>>> during
>> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >>> >>>> second
>> >> >>> >>>> week and went on for the road training.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    We drove all over western Tennessee, eastern Arkansas, and
>> >> >>> northern
>> >> >>> >>>> Mississippi.  To the end of the third week we completed our
>> >> >>> >>>> training
>> >> >>> >>>> and
>> >> >>> >>>> passed our road tests.  When we returned to school the
> following
>> >> >>> week,
>> >> >>> >>>> we
>> >> >>> >>>> were taken to the DMV to get our Class A commercial driver's
>> >> >>> >>>> licenses
>> >> >>> >>>> and
>> >> >>> >>>> late we were assigned to a driver who would train us while we
>> > were
>> >> >>> >>>> actually
>> >> >>> >>>> transporting goods all over the country.  We were paid only
>> >> >>> >>>> fifty
>> >> >>> >>>> dollars
>> >> >>> >>>> per day while we trained regardless of the miles driven.
> Since
>> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >>> >>>> driver
>> >> >>> >>>> often drives between four and five hundred miles per shift,
> that
>> >> >>> >>>> amounts to
>> >> >>> >>>> as little as ten cents per mile or less.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    These three weeks of driver training was done with no
>> >> >>> >>>> compensation
>> >> >>> >>>> and a
>> >> >>> >>>> legal requirement that you repay the company for the 
>> >> >>> >>>> training.
>> > Of
>> >> >>> >>>> course,
>> >> >>> >>>> they pro-rated the cost over two years and made the payments
> for
>> >> >>> >>>> your
>> >> >>> >>>> as
>> >> >>> >>>> long as you worked for them.  But if you found it necessary 
>> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> >>> >>>> leave,
>> >> >>> >>>> you
>> >> >>> >>>> were on the hook for the pro-rated part of the money you owe.
>> > This
>> >> >>> >>>> makes it
>> >> >>> >>>> difficult to leave if you are unhappy with the working
>> >> >>> >>>> situation.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    After I completed the training with my instructor, I began
> to
>> >> >>> learn
>> >> >>> >>>> things I never knew.  I knew that truck drivers were 
>> >> >>> >>>> typically
>> > away
>> >> >>> >>>> from
>> >> >>> >>>> home for months at a time.  I never knew that they are not
>> > covered
>> >> >>> >>>> by
>> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >>> >>>> wage and hour laws (overtime?  What is that?).  Truck drivers
>> > don't
>> >> >>> get
>> >> >>> >>>> overtime even though they constantly work in excess of sixty
>> > hours
>> >> >>> per
>> >> >>> >>>> week.
>> >> >>> >>>> They get paid for the miles they drive and (on occasion) for
>> >> >>> >>>> loading
>> >> >>> or
>> >> >>> >>>> unloading a truck, not for the time they work.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    Many responsibilities that truck drivers perform are
> without
>> > any
>> >> >>> >>>> compensation.  The Department of Transportation requires that
>> > they
>> >> >>> >>>> perform a
>> >> >>> >>>> complete and thorough pre-trip safety inspection each day,
> which
>> >> >>> takes
>> >> >>> >>>> fifteen minutes of their time.  They receive no compensation
> for
>> >> >>> their
>> >> >>> >>>> time
>> >> >>> >>>> to perform this.  When they weigh and balance a truck to make
>> > sure
>> >> >>> the
>> >> >>> >>>> load
>> >> >>> >>>> is legal on the highway, they receive no compensation for
> that,
>> >> >>> either.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    When they hitch or unhitch a trailer, they receive no
>> >> >>> >>>> compensation
>> >> >>> >>>> for
>> >> >>> >>>> that task.  When a shipper or receiver makes them stand 
>> >> >>> >>>> around
>> > and
>> >> >>> wait
>> >> >>> >>>> for
>> >> >>> >>>> their load to be loaded or unloaded from a trailer, the 
>> >> >>> >>>> driver
>> >> >>> receives
>> >> >>> >>>> no
>> >> >>> >>>> compensation for the time he is there idle while the shipper
> or
>> >> >>> >>>> receiver
>> >> >>> >>>> focuses on other things (unless he is paid for loading or
>> >> >>> >>>> unloading,
>> >> >>> >>>> which
>> >> >>> >>>> isn't often).
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    And the driver is never guaranteed to get a shipment to
>> >> >>> move.  There
>> >> >>> >>>> were a number of times where I sat at a truck stop in a
> strange
>> >> >>> >>>> city
>> >> >>> >>>> with no
>> >> >>> >>>> load.  Our company compensated us forty dollars per day if
> they
>> > had
>> >> >>> no
>> >> >>> >>>> load
>> >> >>> >>>> for us.  Imagine that, only forty dollars for a single day of
>> > your
>> >> >>> life
>> >> >>> >>>> (and
>> >> >>> >>>> not all drivers even get that) away from your family,
> community,
>> >> >>> >>>> and
>> >> >>> >>>> friends.  And the per mile rates for new drivers are very 
>> >> >>> >>>> low.
>> > One
>> >> >>> >>>> I
>> >> >>> >>>> was
>> >> >>> >>>> asked to pick up a trailer, weigh it to make sure it was
> legally
>> >> >>> >>>> balanced,
>> >> >>> >>>> and transport it to the nearest company terminal for
>> >> >>> >>>> reassignment to another driver.  For my several hours of 
>> >> >>> >>>> work,
> I
>> >> >>> >>>> received
>> >> >>> >>>> approximately twelve dollars for my efforts.  It amounted to
>> >> >>> >>>> less
>> >> >>> than
>> >> >>> >>>> minimum wage.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    Truck drivers get no respect.  Once when I was at a
> truckstop
>> >> >>> >>>> near
>> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >>> >>>> Canadian border in Maine, a driver told me that his CB handle
>> >> >>> >>>> was
>> >> >>> >>>> 'Caucasian
>> >> >>> >>>> scumbag'.  He said that he chose that handle because of what
> his
>> >> >>> father
>> >> >>> >>>> (also a truck driver) told him.  Truck driving is an 
>> >> >>> >>>> honorable
>> >> >>> >>>> profession,
>> >> >>> >>>> but you will never get any respect.  Sadly, I found myself
>> > agreeing
>> >> >>> >>>> with
>> >> >>> >>>> him.  A few examples follow.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    Once I made a delivery at a warehouse.  After 'bumping the
>> > dock'
>> >> >>> (an
>> >> >>> >>>> expression used that means you have parked the trailer at the
>> >> >>> >>>> loading
>> >> >>> >>>> dock
>> >> >>> >>>> so it can be loaded or unloaded), I found a door marked
>> >> >>> >>>> 'driver's
>> >> >>> >>>> entrance'.
>> >> >>> >>>> When I stepped inside the door, I found myself standing 
>> >> >>> >>>> inside
>> >> >>> >>>> of
>> > a
>> >> >>> >>>> cage
>> >> >>> >>>> (subhuman treatment).
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    I once made a pickup at a major customer.  As my hours 
>> >> >>> >>>> were
>> >> >>> >>>> almost
>> >> >>> >>>> used
>> >> >>> >>>> up when I made the pickup, I parked the truck outside the
> front
>> >> >>> >>>> gate
>> >> >>> in
>> >> >>> >>>> an
>> >> >>> >>>> area where truckers were allowed to park and get the required
>> > time
>> >> >>> >>>> in
>> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >>> >>>> sleeper before they were allowed to drive again.  When I
> walked
>> >> >>> >>>> back
>> >> >>> to
>> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >>> >>>> gate requesting to use the restroom, they refused saying that
>> >> >>> driver's
>> >> >>> >>>> weren't allowed to use the restrooms in the facility.  I had
> to
>> > go
>> >> >>> and
>> >> >>> >>>> relieve myself in the middle of an open field because there
> was
>> > no
>> >> >>> >>>> other
>> >> >>> >>>> place provided for the drivers.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    People often feel anger towards truck drivers because of
> the
>> >> >>> manner
>> >> >>> >>>> in
>> >> >>> >>>> which they drive on the open highways.  I did not engage in
> such
>> >> >>> >>>> driving and
>> >> >>> >>>> I did not approve of those who did.  But think of what it 
>> >> >>> >>>> cost
>> > me.
>> >> >>> >>>> Slowing
>> >> >>> >>>> down reduced the amount of money I made.  Remember that many
> of
>> > the
>> >> >>> >>>> lesser
>> >> >>> >>>> experienced drivers are not all that well paid (contrary to
> the
>> >> >>> stories
>> >> >>> >>>> about how well truck drivers are paid).  When you are paid by
>> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >>> mile
>> >> >>> >>>> at
>> >> >>> >>>> such a rate as twenty-seven cents a mile and only allowed to
>> > drive
>> >> >>> for
>> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >>> >>>> limited number of hours, making more money requires that you
>> > floor
>> >> >>> it.
>> >> >>> >>>> When
>> >> >>> >>>> a driver is caught in a traffic jam, he is sitting there
> burning
>> >> >>> >>>> his
>> >> >>> >>>> driving
>> >> >>> >>>> hours and getting no compensation for it.  He cannot drive
> extra
>> >> >>> hours
>> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> >>> >>>> make up for it or the Department of Transportation will fine
> him
>> >> >>> >>>> when
>> >> >>> >>>> they
>> >> >>> >>>> audit his driving logbook.  To that end, some drivers falsify
>> > their
>> >> >>> >>>> logbook
>> >> >>> >>>> to drive more miles.  This means that they are driving over
> the
>> >> >>> number
>> >> >>> >>>> of
>> >> >>> >>>> hours it is safe for a person's body to be alert enough to
>> >> >>> >>>> handle
>> >> >>> >>>> an
>> >> >>> >>>> eighty-thousand pound multi-vehicle truck and creates an
>> > additional
>> >> >>> >>>> hazard.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    Truck drivers would like to see that changed, but it's
>> >> >>> >>>> difficult.
>> >> >>> >>>> 'Over
>> >> >>> >>>> the road' drivers are away from home for months at a time.
>> > Because
>> >> >>> of
>> >> >>> >>>> that
>> >> >>> >>>> they don't get to vote.  Politicians look at those statistics
>> >> >>> >>>> and
>> >> >>> they
>> >> >>> >>>> realize that spending time helping truck drivers does not
> yield
>> >> >>> >>>> them
>> >> >>> >>>> additional votes.  This does not motivate the politicians to
>> >> >>> >>>> make
>> >> >>> >>>> things any
>> >> >>> >>>> easier for them.  Once, a driver told me that he had tried to
>> >> >>> >>>> get
>> >> >>> >>>> an
>> >> >>> >>>> absentee ballot.  He was asked where he'd be on election day.
>> >> >>> >>>> He
>> >> >>> told
>> >> >>> >>>> them
>> >> >>> >>>> he had no way of knowing because he was sent to different
> places
>> >> >>> often
>> >> >>> >>>> on
>> >> >>> >>>> only a few hours notice.  Because he couldn't tell them where
>> > he'd
>> >> >>> >>>> be
>> >> >>> >>>> on
>> >> >>> >>>> election day, they denied him an absentee ballot.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    As long as we continue to pay our over the road drivers 
>> >> >>> >>>> 'by
>> > the
>> >> >>> >>>> mile'
>> >> >>> >>>> instead of by the hour and pay them for the things truck
> drivers
>> > do
>> >> >>> for
>> >> >>> >>>> no
>> >> >>> >>>> compensation every day, the way many truck drivers operate
> their
>> >> >>> >>>> vehicles is
>> >> >>> >>>> not going to change.  There is significant legislative reform
>> >> >>> >>>> needed
>> >> >>> >>>> but no
>> >> >>> >>>> political incentive to perform it.  And many of these good
>> >> >>> >>>> people
>> >> >>> >>>> continue
>> >> >>> >>>> to suffer while making a living to support their families
> (with
>> >> >>> >>>> whom
>> >> >>> >>>> they
>> >> >>> >>>> are able to spend very little time with).  The next time you
>> > enjoy
>> >> >>> your
>> >> >>> >>>> breakfast, buy nice new clothes at the store, fill up your
> tank
>> >> >>> >>>> with
>> >> >>> >>>> gasoline, or partake of any number of other countless things,
>> >> >>> >>>> you
>> >> >>> >>>> should
>> >> >>> >>>> remember that truck drivers brought those materials to you.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    Imagine if the trucks stopped rolling for a week.  We'd
>> >> >>> >>>> experience
>> >> >>> >>>> gas
>> >> >>> >>>> shortages, food shortages, and have to learn to do without
> many
>> >> >>> things.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    When a driver is involved in a traffic accident, it isn't
>> >> >>> >>>> whether
>> >> >>> or
>> >> >>> >>>> not
>> >> >>> >>>> he is at fault that matters.  You may have run into him but
> the
>> >> >>> >>>> question is
>> >> >>> >>>> could he have done something to prevent it from happening?
> Even
>> > if
>> >> >>> he
>> >> >>> >>>> was
>> >> >>> >>>> not at fault in the accident, it often is still reported on
> his
>> >> >>> driving
>> >> >>> >>>> record as 'preventable' (which stacks against him when his
>> > driving
>> >> >>> >>>> record is
>> >> >>> >>>> reviewed for insurance or for possible employment with a
>> > different
>> >> >>> >>>> trucking
>> >> >>> >>>> company).  Imagine that, you caused the accident but they 
>> >> >>> >>>> hold
>> >> >>> >>>> it
>> >> >>> >>>> against
>> >> >>> >>>> the truck driver anyway.  He is responsible for managing
> *your*
>> >> >>> driving
>> >> >>> >>>> safety habits.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    These dramatically under appreciated people live a
> lifestyle
>> >> >>> >>>> that
>> >> >>> I
>> >> >>> >>>> don't understand how they continue to live day in and day out
>> > year
>> >> >>> >>>> after
>> >> >>> >>>> year.  Essentially they are slaves to our system and we
> continue
>> > to
>> >> >>> >>>> take
>> >> >>> >>>> advantage of them paying many of them low wages and working
> them
>> > at
>> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >>> >>>> schedule that would cause most of us to experience complete
>> >> >>> exhaustion.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>    My hat is off to them and I think about them from time to
>> >> >>> time.  God
>> >> >>> >>>> bless our truck drivers.
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>> _______________________________________________
>> >> >>> >>>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >> >>> >>>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >> >>> >>>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >>> >>
>> >> >>> >>
>> >> >>> >>
>> >> >>> >
>> >> >>>
>> >> >>>
>> >> >>>
>> >> >>> _______________________________________________
>> >> >>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >> >>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >> >>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >> >>>
>> >> >>
>> >> >>
>> >> >>
>> >> >> --
>> >> >> Rick Peek
>> >> >> Tech450 at gmail.com
>> >> >>
>> >> >> _______________________________________________
>> >> >> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >> >> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >> >> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >> >>
>> >> >> _______________________________________________
>> >> >> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >> >> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >> >> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >>
>> >>
>> >
>> >
>>
>>
>
> 




From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Thu Jun 15 15:49:29 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 15:49:29 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] Fw:  truckers
Message-ID: <035a01c690bd$32ed50b0$6101a8c0@Lauren>




 When one RN comes in and gives you the wrong medication and causes you 
great harm---I think that you would be extremely cautious of the whole lot. 
That's human nature.

Fred, I'm not blaming the entire trucking industry for the problems of 
several thousands. But if a poll was taken, I bet more people are having 
severe problems with big rigs on the road today.  The truckers seem to think 
that they own the road and we cars need to get out of their way.
 I do get out of their way---way out!

Drug abuse crosses all professional boundaries. Vehicular homicide is 
another story.
 Sm


> ----- Original Message ----- 
> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 3:33 PM
> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>
>
>> Yes,
>>
>>    And should the everyone in the RN profession be blamed every time a
>> single person violates that trust?
>>
>>    Regards,
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> Fred
>>
>> ----- Original Message -----
>> From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred atkinson"
>> <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 3:45 PM
>> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>>
>>
>>> RN's, Doctors, Pharmacists, school teachers and professors, Lab techs,
>>> lawyers. Addicts are everywhere.
>>> As a RN, I have the State Board of Alabama Nursing regulating me and my
>>> license. I am subject to drug testing at any time.
>>> I would never willfully harm a patient.  Is a trucker willfully harming
>>> himself, the public and everything else as he craws into his rig and
>> speeds
>>> along cross country to make a deadline----all to make more money?
>>>
>>> Many things need to be changed but they never will because basically 
>>> John
>> Q
>>> Public doesn't want them changed. When you get right down to it, the
>>> truckers are happy with things just the way they are.  They don't more 
>>> and
>>> more regulations on them. You know---you are part trucker!
>>> Susan
>>> ----- Original Message -----
>>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>>> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>>> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 2:29 PM
>>> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>>>
>>>
>>> > Susan,
>>> >
>>> >    And there aren't some RNs who are using drugs to keep going on the
>>> > night
>>> > shift?
>>> >
>>> >    Didn't mean you shouldn't be proud of it.  Just meant that there 
>>> > are
>>> > bad
>>> > apples in your profession, too.  And that's nothing against RNs as a
>>> > whole.
>>> > They are often underpaid as well.
>>> >
>>> >    Regards,
>>> >
>>> >
>>> >
>>> > Fred
>>> >
>>> > ----- Original Message -----
>>> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>>> > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred atkinson"
>>> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>>> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 2:53 PM
>>> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>>> >
>>> >
>>> >> I'm all for supporting family and such.
>>> >>
>>> >> Today's truckers need to incorporate this and have some safety
>> concerns.
>>> >> I spoke of my parent's neighbor---he rakes in approx $3000.-$3500 per
>>> > week.
>>> >> Pretty good for a trucker, huh?
>>> >> Most of it goes for crystal meth.    His family travels with him and
>> when
>>> >> they don't his 14yr old does.  Kid never goes to school.
>>> >>
>>> >> The entire trucking industry needs re-vamping but then again what
>>> >> industry
>>> >> doesn't?
>>> >>
>>> >> Remember,   I'm RN -- totally 100% ( and proud of it)
>>> >>
>>> >> Susan
>>> >>
>>> >>
>>> >> ----- Original Message -----
>>> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>>> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>>> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 1:29 PM
>>> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>>> >>
>>> >>
>>> >> > Susan,
>>> >> >
>>> >> >    There is relief we could reach.
>>> >> >
>>> >> >    Truckers don't think the world owes them a living.  Many of them
>> are
>>> >> > just trying to support their families and pay for their homes and 
>>> >> > pay
>>> >> > their
>>> >> > taxes.  They don't have the luxury of having their family around 
>>> >> > when
>>> >> > their
>>> >> > driving shift ends (the over the road ones, I'm refering to).  It's 
>>> >> > a
>>> > hard
>>> >> > life.  I've lived it and I know.  I chose not to continue living 
>>> >> > that
>>> > way.
>>> >> > I was out about three thousand dollars for my driver training when 
>>> >> > I
>>> > quit,
>>> >> > too.  Fortunately, I was able to come up with it.  Others aren't so
>>> > lucky.
>>> >> >
>>> >> >    You're right about the work ethic.  Nonetheless, if we outlawed
>>> > paying
>>> >> > by the mile and paid them by the hour plus made them entitled to be
>>> >> > paid
>>> >> > for
>>> >> > the things they are required to do that they are not currently paid
>>> >> > for,
>>> >> > it
>>> >> > would change.  As with most solutions, it wouldn't solve 
>>> >> > everything.
>>> > But
>>> >> > it
>>> >> > would be a great start.
>>> >> >
>>> >> >    I doubt there's anyone here that would take a job and work for
>> free.
>>> >> > Truckers are required to for a lot of what they do.  They don't get
>>> >> > reimbursed for the meals they get when they travel.  They don't get
>> to
>>> >> > sleep
>>> >> > at a hotel as we do when our employers send us traveling.  It comes
>> out
>>> > of
>>> >> > their pocket.
>>> >> >
>>> >> >    Susan, there was no excuse for that trucker and I won't make
>> excuses
>>> >> > for
>>> >> > him.  He belonged in jail and I hope that he is rotting there.  But
>>> >> > remember
>>> >> > that in any profession, there are bad apples.  That's true all the
>> way
>>> >> > from
>>> >> > the educators to the professionals, to the vocational, to the
>> unskilled
>>> >> > workers as well.
>>> >> >
>>> >> >    When I finished my shift and sat in the truckers section in the
>>> >> > truck
>>> >> > stop restaurants, I got a chance to get to know some of these 
>>> >> > people.
>>> >> > I
>>> >> > was
>>> >> > amazed at the insights of their political views and the diverse
>>> >> > backgrounds
>>> >> > that many of them came from.   I didn't always agree with them, but 
>>> >> > I
>>> >> > could
>>> >> > see why they took that position and that many of them had really
>>> >> > thought
>>> >> > things through.  The caliber of some of those people overwhelmed me
>> at
>>> >> > times.
>>> >> >
>>> >> >    Remember, I'm part trucker (and proud of it).
>>> >> >
>>> >> >    Regards,
>>> >> >
>>> >> >
>>> >> >
>>> >> >
>>> >> > Fred
>>> >> >
>>> >> >
>>> >> >
>>> >> > ----- Original Message -----
>>> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>>> >> > To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>>> >> > Cc: "fred atkinson" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>>> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 12:54 PM
>>> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>>> >> >
>>> >> >
>>> >> >> This is probably true of most jobs. The newcomers have little or 
>>> >> >> no
>>> > work
>>> >> >> ethics and could care less about anything but the "buck". They 
>>> >> >> give
>>> > about
>>> >> >> 10% or less on the job.
>>> >> >>
>>> >> >> The older worker has respect for his job, others and America. 
>>> >> >> Many
>>> > give
>>> >> >> 100% or more.
>>> >> >>  The difference is amazing in the two workers.
>>> >> >>
>>> >> >> The sad part is that the newcomers are overtaking the older 
>>> >> >> workers
>>> >> >> and
>>> >> >> America is suffering.
>>> >> >>  In my role as an administrator for 27 yrs, I hired and terminated
>>> >> >> RN's
>>> >> > and
>>> >> >> others and I would see this over and over.
>>> >> >> For some unknown reason, 1/2 of the population thinks that America
>>> >> >> owes
>>> >> > them
>>> >> >> a living( truckers included)
>>> >> >>
>>> >> >> The system is totally messed up and no relief in sight!
>>> >> >> Susan
>>> >> >>
>>> >> >>
>>> >> >> ----- Original Message -----
>>> >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>>> >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>>> >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 11:32 AM
>>> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>>> >> >>
>>> >> >>
>>> >> >> >    Regretfully, that is true of the newcomers.
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> >    They drug themselves up because they have to keep going.
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> >    I never did any of that.  And I made diddly squat.  That was
>> one
>>> > of
>>> >> > the
>>> >> >> > reasons I gave it up.
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> >    It's a system that rewards those who take dangerous risks and
>>> >> > penalizes
>>> >> >> > those who break the law.
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> >    Yes, it's messed up.
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> >    Regards,
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> >                                           Fred
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> > --- machen2081 at bellsouth.net wrote:
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>>> >> >> > To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>, "Sansom Class of 1972"
>>> >> >> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>>> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>>> >> >> > Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:50:13 -0500
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> > Fred,
>>> >> >> > The only way they can make acceptable money is to speed? 
>>> >> >> > Putting
>>> >> > hundreds
>>> >> >> > of thousands of lives at risk every day on the road including
>> their
>>> >> >> > own----for them to make some money?
>>> >> >> > Yea they're speeding all right---with the crap that they are
>>> > ingesting
>>> >> > in
>>> >> >> > a
>>> >> >> > pill form.
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> > I was a hemodialysis RN for 27 years and I can't begin to tell 
>>> >> >> > you
>>> > the
>>> >> >> > number of truckers that I have dialyzed over this period of time
>>> >> >> > because
>>> >> >> > of
>>> >> >> > their long term drug abuse. This group was the hardest group to
>> work
>>> >> > with
>>> >> >> > due to their non-compliance, disrespect for authority figures 
>>> >> >> > and
>>> >> >> > continued
>>> >> >> > drug abuse.
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> > No Fred, I wouldn't get behind a wheel and speed just to 
>>> >> >> > increase
>> my
>>> >> >> > earnings.. I'm just not made that way.  I have respect for human
>>> > life.
>>> >> >> > Period.
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> > Transport the goods via railroad. Utilize as few trucks as
>> possible.
>>> >> >> > As
>>> >> >> > for
>>> >> >> > me, I'm sick of their attitudes---they don't own the roads!
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> > You're right about one thing---one bad apple spoils the whole
>>> >> > bunch---this
>>> >> >> > goes for everything in life
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> > Susan
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
>>> >> >> > From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>>> >> >> > To: <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>>> >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 10:26 AM
>>> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> >> Yes, Susan,
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >>     There is drug testing before they can even drive.  And they
>> are
>>> >> >> >> subject to surprised, unannounced drug testing, too.  I've been
>>> > tested
>>> >> > a
>>> >> >> >> number of times, myself, all negative.
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >>     Well, you'd probably speed too if you were economically
>>> >> >> >> enslaved
>>> >> > and
>>> >> >> >> the only way to make acceptable money was to speed.  Don't you
>>> >> >> >> think
>>> >> >> >> we
>>> >> >> >> could change the law to fix that?
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >>     I've been around the truck drivers.  Mostly, they are good
>>> > people
>>> >> >> >> trying to make a living.  And remember, it only takes one or 
>>> >> >> >> two
>>> >> > negative
>>> >> >> >> folks in a stereotyped group (ah, that word) to make a lot of
>> good
>>> >> > people
>>> >> >> >> look bad.
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >>     We live lifestyles that we'd never live if these folks 
>>> >> >> >> didn't
>>> >> >> >> do
>>> >
>>> >> > this
>>> >> >> >> work for us.  Remember that.  When we pass laws guaranteeing
>> wages,
>>> > we
>>> >> >> >> exempt them from the same laws we make to protect ourselves.
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >>     Regards,
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >>                                             Fred
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >> --- tech450 at gmail.com wrote:
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >> From: "Rick Peek" <tech450 at gmail.com>
>>> >> >> >> To: "Sansom Class of 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>>> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>>> >> >> >> Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:13:55 -0500
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >> Hey Susan,
>>> >> >> >> My sentiments on truckers are with you also. Driving from 
>>> >> >> >> Gadsden
>>> >> >> >> to
>>> >> >> >> B'ham
>>> >> >> >> on the interstate for 8 years, all my dealings with truckers 
>>> >> >> >> have
>>> > been
>>> >> >> >> negative also. I have been run off the road several times 
>>> >> >> >> myself
>>> >> >> >> and
>>> >> > have
>>> >> >> >> seen them cause numerous accidents, some of which I barely 
>>> >> >> >> missed
>>> >> >> >> being
>>> >> >> >> in
>>> >> >> >> myself. I have hit debris many times that was left in the road 
>>> >> >> >> by
>>> >> >> >> truckers
>>> >> >> >> and almost made me wreck and once hit some scrap metal that 
>>> >> >> >> fell
>>> >> >> >> off
>>> > a
>>> >> >> >> truck
>>> >> >> >> and shredded my new tires and almost made me wreck. I have also
>> had
>>> > my
>>> >> >> >> winsheild cracked and paint knocked off by flying rocks that 
>>> >> >> >> fell
>>> > off
>>> >> >> >> trucks. I'm on your side.
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >> Rick P.
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >> On 6/15/06, machen2081 at bellsouth.net <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>>> > wrote:
>>> >> >> >>>
>>> >> >> >>>
>>> >> >> >>>
>>> >> >> >>> Ah Fred,
>>> >> >> >>> I read and re-read your article with great interest.  I wonder
>> why
>>> >> >> >>> you
>>> >> >> >>> would put so much time and energy into such an article.
>>> >> >> >>>
>>> >> >> >>> You see truck drivers really strike a chord with me and I'll
>> tell
>>> > you
>>> >> >> >>> why.
>>> >> >> >>> I'm sure there are many great truck drivers on the road with a
>>> >> >> >>> safe
>>> >> >> >>> driving
>>> >> >> >>> record. I haven't met many. You stated that people feel anger
>>> > towards
>>> >> >> >>> truck
>>> >> >> >>> drivers because of the manner in which they drive on the open
>>> >> >> >>> highway.  You
>>> >> >> >>> are so correct.   My article may offend you....
>>> >> >> >>>
>>> >> >> >>> In 1984, I was taking my mother to and from Birmingham for her
>>> > chemo
>>> >> >> >>> treatments three times per week.  On one Wednesday afternoon, 
>>> >> >> >>> I
>>> >> >> >>> was
>>> >> >> >>> driving
>>> >> >> >>> her red car home with her reclined in the riders side. I was 
>>> >> >> >>> on
>>> >> >> >>> the
>>> >> > left
>>> >> >> >>> side of  highway I-59 and a "wonderful"truck driver flew by 
>>> >> >> >>> and
>>> > took
>>> >> > off
>>> >> >> >>> the
>>> >> >> >>> entire side of her car( my mother's side.) He swerved over 
>>> >> >> >>> into
>> my
>>> >> > lane.
>>> >> >> >>>
>>> >> >> >>> He never stopped and kept going at approx 90 miles per hr. I'm
>>> >> >> >>> sure
>>> >> >> >>> to
>>> >> >> >>> deliver his goods to a store! I had to chase him down and 
>>> >> >> >>> lucky
>>> >> >> >>> for
>>> >> >> >>> us
>>> >> > a
>>> >> >> >>> statetrooper was a few miles away.
>>> >> >> >>> I finally got the truck to stop. The driver jumped out(all 
>>> >> >> >>> 4'10"
>>> >> >> >>> of
>>> >> > him
>>> >> >> >>> and
>>> >> >> >>> proceeded to cuss me out and even hit me.I was pregnant at the
>>> > time)
>>> >> >> >>> He was stoned out of his mind. At this point,  I was all over
>> him
>>> > and
>>> >> >> >>> since
>>> >> >> >>> my mother was only slightly injured she had to pull me off of
>> him.
>>> > He
>>> >> >> >>> denied
>>> >> >> >>> the hit and run---cars were pulled over for witnesses and the
>>> > trooper
>>> >> >> >>> had
>>> >> >> >>> arrived.
>>> >> >> >>> Long story short---This precious trucker was stoned on 
>>> >> >> >>> Demerol,
>>> >> > morphine
>>> >> >> >>> and
>>> >> >> >>> being serviced by his boyfriend(also stoned)when he nearly
>> killed
>>> > us.
>>> >> >> >>> Red
>>> >> >> >>> paint was all over his wheels--he went to jail with many
>>> >> >> >>> charges!!!
>>> >> > This
>>> >> >> >>> wasn't the first time for him either.
>>> >> >> >>> How do these guys pass drug testing?  Is there drug testing?
>>> >> >> >>>
>>> >> >> >>> Like you said.... It isn't whether or not he's at fault that
>>> > matters.
>>> >> >> >>> You
>>> >> >> >>> may have run into him but the question is.. could he have done
>>> >> > something
>>> >> >> >>> to
>>> >> >> >>> prevent it from happening?    You figure it out!
>>> >> >> >>>
>>> >> >> >>> My parents live next door to a trucker ....This trucker steals
>>> > goods,
>>> >> >> >>> lets
>>> >> >> >>> his 14yr drive his 18wheeler on long trips while he sleeps, 
>>> >> >> >>> and
>> is
>>> >> >> >>> addicted
>>> >> >> >>> to crystal meth.
>>> >> >> >>>
>>> >> >> >>> My daughter and I just went to Anniston yesterday and were run
>> off
>>> >> >> >>> the
>>> >> >> >>> road
>>> >> >> >>> by a 18 wheeler and then the thing kept
>>> >> >> >>> chasing us for miles. I called the police but the truck had 
>>> >> >> >>> left
>>> >> >> >>> by
>>> >> > that
>>> >> >> >>> time. A report was taken.
>>> >> >> >>>
>>> >> >> >>> As you can see, I have little respect for truckers. My 
>>> >> >> >>> dealings
>>> > have
>>> >> > not
>>> >> >> >>> been good. Many are slaves to drugs to keep them going these
>> long,
>>> >> >> >>> grueling
>>> >> >> >>> hours.
>>> >> >> >>> My hats are off to the good ones.
>>> >> >> >>> Susan
>>> >> >> >>>
>>> >> >> >>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>> ----- Original Message -----
>>> >> >> >>> >>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>>> >> >> >>> >>> To: "Rebels 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>>> >> >> >>> >>> Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2006 8:52 PM
>>> >> >> >>> >>> Subject: [Rebels1972] Economic Slavery on the Highways
>>> >> >> >>> >>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    I'd like to share some ideas about some of the people
>> who
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> make
>>> >> >> >>> this
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> country great.  They are often the most unappreciated
>> people
>>> > in
>>> >> > the
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> world.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    We take them so much for granted despite all that they
>>> >> >> >>> do.  Everyone
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> seems to think that the goods on the shelf at your store
>> just
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> appear
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> there
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> magically.  The materials to build your home, school, or
>>> >> > workplace
>>> >> >> >>> were
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> not
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> always there.  The fuel that makes your car run does not
>> just
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> appear
>>> >> >> >>> at
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> pump.  And there are many other material goods we rely on
>> to
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> maintain
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> our
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> standard of living.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    There are thousands of good Americans that transport
>> these
>>> >> >> >>> materials
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> us.  They aren't heralded and they get no fanfare.  Man
>> live
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> lifestyle of
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> separation from their families and work an incredible
>> number
>>> > of
>>> >> >> >>> hours.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> It
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> is their plight I wish to discuss.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    When the economy went sour at the end of 2001, I spoke
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> with
>>> > a
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> recruiter
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> for a national trucking company, she arranged for me to
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> travel
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> Memphis,
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> Tennessee and attend a three week school that would help 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> me
>>> > get
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>>> >> >> >>> Class
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> A
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> commercial driver's license with all the required
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> endorsements
>>> >> > and
>>> >> >> >>> the
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> training required for the company to hire me as an over 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>>> > road
>>> >> >> >>> truck
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> driver.  The cost of attending the truck school was over
>> five
>>> >> >> >>> thousand
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> dollars and I was expected to be responsible for the cost
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> myself.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> I
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> was not
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> compensated in any way for the time I spent in school.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    I went to truck driving school with a lot of people 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> from
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> different
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> parts
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> of the country and different backgrounds.  After we
>> completed
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> our
>>> >> >> >>> first
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> week
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> in school, we passed our written exams to get our 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> learner's
>>> >> > permits
>>> >> >> >>> and
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> our
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> medical certificates, which were required to operate the
>> big
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> eighteen
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> wheelers.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    The next week was range training.  We learned all 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> manner
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> of
>>> >> >> >>> backing.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> Backing was not like backing a car.  It required a whole
>>> >> > different
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> twist.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> To back a truck to the right one must turn the wheel to 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>>> > left
>>> >> >> >>> until
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> truck jacks to the right.  Then you turn the wheel to the
>>> > right
>>> >> > to
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> follow
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> the trailer and keep it on the right path.  Even backing 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> in
>> a
>>> >> >> >>> straight
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> line
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> was difficult.  But we learned our required backing 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> skills
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> during
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> second
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> week and went on for the road training.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    We drove all over western Tennessee, eastern Arkansas,
>> and
>>> >> >> >>> northern
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> Mississippi.  To the end of the third week we completed 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> our
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> training
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> and
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> passed our road tests.  When we returned to school the
>>> > following
>>> >> >> >>> week,
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> we
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> were taken to the DMV to get our Class A commercial
>> driver's
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> licenses
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> and
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> late we were assigned to a driver who would train us 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> while
>> we
>>> >> > were
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> actually
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> transporting goods all over the country.  We were paid 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> only
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> fifty
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> dollars
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> per day while we trained regardless of the miles driven.
>>> > Since
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> driver
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> often drives between four and five hundred miles per 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> shift,
>>> > that
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> amounts to
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> as little as ten cents per mile or less.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    These three weeks of driver training was done with no
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> and a
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> legal requirement that you repay the company for the
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> training.
>>> >> > Of
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> course,
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> they pro-rated the cost over two years and made the
>> payments
>>> > for
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> your
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> as
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> long as you worked for them.  But if you found it 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> necessary
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> leave,
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> you
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> were on the hook for the pro-rated part of the money you
>> owe.
>>> >> > This
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> makes it
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> difficult to leave if you are unhappy with the working
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> situation.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    After I completed the training with my instructor, I
>> began
>>> > to
>>> >> >> >>> learn
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> things I never knew.  I knew that truck drivers were
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> typically
>>> >> > away
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> from
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> home for months at a time.  I never knew that they are 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> not
>>> >> > covered
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> by
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> wage and hour laws (overtime?  What is that?).  Truck
>> drivers
>>> >> > don't
>>> >> >> >>> get
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> overtime even though they constantly work in excess of
>> sixty
>>> >> > hours
>>> >> >> >>> per
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> week.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> They get paid for the miles they drive and (on occasion)
>> for
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> loading
>>> >> >> >>> or
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> unloading a truck, not for the time they work.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    Many responsibilities that truck drivers perform are
>>> > without
>>> >> > any
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation.  The Department of Transportation requires
>> that
>>> >> > they
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> perform a
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> complete and thorough pre-trip safety inspection each 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> day,
>>> > which
>>> >> >> >>> takes
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> fifteen minutes of their time.  They receive no
>> compensation
>>> > for
>>> >> >> >>> their
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> time
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> to perform this.  When they weigh and balance a truck to
>> make
>>> >> > sure
>>> >> >> >>> the
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> load
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> is legal on the highway, they receive no compensation for
>>> > that,
>>> >> >> >>> either.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    When they hitch or unhitch a trailer, they receive no
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> for
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> that task.  When a shipper or receiver makes them stand
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> around
>>> >> > and
>>> >> >> >>> wait
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> for
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> their load to be loaded or unloaded from a trailer, the
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> driver
>>> >> >> >>> receives
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> no
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation for the time he is there idle while the
>> shipper
>>> > or
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> receiver
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> focuses on other things (unless he is paid for loading or
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> unloading,
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> which
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> isn't often).
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    And the driver is never guaranteed to get a shipment 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>>> >> >> >>> move.  There
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> were a number of times where I sat at a truck stop in a
>>> > strange
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> city
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> with no
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> load.  Our company compensated us forty dollars per day 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> if
>>> > they
>>> >> > had
>>> >> >> >>> no
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> load
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> for us.  Imagine that, only forty dollars for a single 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> day
>> of
>>> >> > your
>>> >> >> >>> life
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> (and
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> not all drivers even get that) away from your family,
>>> > community,
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> and
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> friends.  And the per mile rates for new drivers are very
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> low.
>>> >> > One
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> I
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> was
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> asked to pick up a trailer, weigh it to make sure it was
>>> > legally
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> balanced,
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> and transport it to the nearest company terminal for
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> reassignment to another driver.  For my several hours of
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> work,
>>> > I
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> received
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> approximately twelve dollars for my efforts.  It amounted
>> to
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> less
>>> >> >> >>> than
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> minimum wage.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    Truck drivers get no respect.  Once when I was at a
>>> > truckstop
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> near
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> Canadian border in Maine, a driver told me that his CB
>> handle
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> was
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> 'Caucasian
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> scumbag'.  He said that he chose that handle because of
>> what
>>> > his
>>> >> >> >>> father
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> (also a truck driver) told him.  Truck driving is an
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> honorable
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> profession,
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> but you will never get any respect.  Sadly, I found 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> myself
>>> >> > agreeing
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> with
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> him.  A few examples follow.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    Once I made a delivery at a warehouse.  After 'bumping
>> the
>>> >> > dock'
>>> >> >> >>> (an
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> expression used that means you have parked the trailer at
>> the
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> loading
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> dock
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> so it can be loaded or unloaded), I found a door marked
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> 'driver's
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> entrance'.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> When I stepped inside the door, I found myself standing
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> inside
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> of
>>> >> > a
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> cage
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> (subhuman treatment).
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    I once made a pickup at a major customer.  As my hours
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> were
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> almost
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> used
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> up when I made the pickup, I parked the truck outside the
>>> > front
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> gate
>>> >> >> >>> in
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> an
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> area where truckers were allowed to park and get the
>> required
>>> >> > time
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> in
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> sleeper before they were allowed to drive again.  When I
>>> > walked
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> back
>>> >> >> >>> to
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> gate requesting to use the restroom, they refused saying
>> that
>>> >> >> >>> driver's
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> weren't allowed to use the restrooms in the facility.  I
>> had
>>> > to
>>> >> > go
>>> >> >> >>> and
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> relieve myself in the middle of an open field because 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> there
>>> > was
>>> >> > no
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> other
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> place provided for the drivers.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    People often feel anger towards truck drivers because 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> of
>>> > the
>>> >> >> >>> manner
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> in
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> which they drive on the open highways.  I did not engage 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> in
>>> > such
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> driving and
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> I did not approve of those who did.  But think of what it
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> cost
>>> >> > me.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> Slowing
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> down reduced the amount of money I made.  Remember that
>> many
>>> > of
>>> >> > the
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> lesser
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> experienced drivers are not all that well paid (contrary 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>>> > the
>>> >> >> >>> stories
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> about how well truck drivers are paid).  When you are 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> paid
>> by
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>>> >> >> >>> mile
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> at
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> such a rate as twenty-seven cents a mile and only allowed
>> to
>>> >> > drive
>>> >> >> >>> for
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> limited number of hours, making more money requires that
>> you
>>> >> > floor
>>> >> >> >>> it.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> When
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> a driver is caught in a traffic jam, he is sitting there
>>> > burning
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> his
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> driving
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> hours and getting no compensation for it.  He cannot 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> drive
>>> > extra
>>> >> >> >>> hours
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> make up for it or the Department of Transportation will
>> fine
>>> > him
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> when
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> they
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> audit his driving logbook.  To that end, some drivers
>> falsify
>>> >> > their
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> logbook
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> to drive more miles.  This means that they are driving 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> over
>>> > the
>>> >> >> >>> number
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> of
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> hours it is safe for a person's body to be alert enough 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> handle
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> an
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> eighty-thousand pound multi-vehicle truck and creates an
>>> >> > additional
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> hazard.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    Truck drivers would like to see that changed, but it's
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> difficult.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> 'Over
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> the road' drivers are away from home for months at a 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> time.
>>> >> > Because
>>> >> >> >>> of
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> that
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> they don't get to vote.  Politicians look at those
>> statistics
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> and
>>> >> >> >>> they
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> realize that spending time helping truck drivers does not
>>> > yield
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> them
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> additional votes.  This does not motivate the politicians
>> to
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> make
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> things any
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> easier for them.  Once, a driver told me that he had 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> tried
>> to
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> get
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> an
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> absentee ballot.  He was asked where he'd be on election
>> day.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> He
>>> >> >> >>> told
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> them
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> he had no way of knowing because he was sent to different
>>> > places
>>> >> >> >>> often
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> on
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> only a few hours notice.  Because he couldn't tell them
>> where
>>> >> > he'd
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> be
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> on
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> election day, they denied him an absentee ballot.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    As long as we continue to pay our over the road 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> drivers
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> 'by
>>> >> > the
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> mile'
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> instead of by the hour and pay them for the things truck
>>> > drivers
>>> >> > do
>>> >> >> >>> for
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> no
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation every day, the way many truck drivers 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> operate
>>> > their
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> vehicles is
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> not going to change.  There is significant legislative
>> reform
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> needed
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> but no
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> political incentive to perform it.  And many of these 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> good
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> people
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> continue
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> to suffer while making a living to support their families
>>> > (with
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> whom
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> they
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> are able to spend very little time with).  The next time
>> you
>>> >> > enjoy
>>> >> >> >>> your
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> breakfast, buy nice new clothes at the store, fill up 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> your
>>> > tank
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> with
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> gasoline, or partake of any number of other countless
>> things,
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> you
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> should
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> remember that truck drivers brought those materials to 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> you.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    Imagine if the trucks stopped rolling for a week. 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> We'd
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> experience
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> gas
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> shortages, food shortages, and have to learn to do 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> without
>>> > many
>>> >> >> >>> things.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    When a driver is involved in a traffic accident, it
>> isn't
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> whether
>>> >> >> >>> or
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> not
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> he is at fault that matters.  You may have run into him 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> but
>>> > the
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> question is
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> could he have done something to prevent it from 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> happening?
>>> > Even
>>> >> > if
>>> >> >> >>> he
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> was
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> not at fault in the accident, it often is still reported 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> on
>>> > his
>>> >> >> >>> driving
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> record as 'preventable' (which stacks against him when 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> his
>>> >> > driving
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> record is
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> reviewed for insurance or for possible employment with a
>>> >> > different
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> trucking
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> company).  Imagine that, you caused the accident but they
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> hold
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> it
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> against
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> the truck driver anyway.  He is responsible for managing
>>> > *your*
>>> >> >> >>> driving
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> safety habits.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    These dramatically under appreciated people live a
>>> > lifestyle
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> that
>>> >> >> >>> I
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> don't understand how they continue to live day in and day
>> out
>>> >> > year
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> after
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> year.  Essentially they are slaves to our system and we
>>> > continue
>>> >> > to
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> take
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> advantage of them paying many of them low wages and 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> working
>>> > them
>>> >> > at
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> schedule that would cause most of us to experience 
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> complete
>>> >> >> >>> exhaustion.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>    My hat is off to them and I think about them from time
>> to
>>> >> >> >>> time.  God
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> bless our truck drivers.
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> _______________________________________________
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>>> >> >> >>> >>>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>>> >> >> >>> >>>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>>
>>> >> >> >>> >>
>>> >> >> >>> >>
>>> >> >> >>> >>
>>> >> >> >>> >
>>> >> >> >>>
>>> >> >> >>>
>>> >> >> >>>
>>> >> >> >>> _______________________________________________
>>> >> >> >>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>>> >> >> >>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>>> >> >> >>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>>> >> >> >>>
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >> --
>>> >> >> >> Rick Peek
>>> >> >> >> Tech450 at gmail.com
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >> _______________________________________________
>>> >> >> >> Rebels1972 mailing list
>>> >> >> >> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>>> >> >> >> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>>> >> >> >>
>>> >> >> >> _______________________________________________
>>> >> >> >> Rebels1972 mailing list
>>> >> >> >> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>>> >> >> >> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >> >
>>> >> >>
>>> >> >>
>>> >> >
>>> >> >
>>> >>
>>> >>
>>> >
>>> >
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
> 




From Jdrtiger at aol.com  Thu Jun 15 16:12:15 2006
From: Jdrtiger at aol.com (Jdrtiger at aol.com)
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 17:12:15 EDT
Subject: [Rebels1972] Blessed with great nurses!
Message-ID: <393.50577fd.31c3272f@aol.com>

Shazzam: I can talk about nurses.  I work in the medical field as a  hospital 
minister/chaplain for my church.  Also, I have had surgery 13  different 
times over the last 16 years as a patient.  Out of those 16  times, I was an 
inpatient for over half of those.  Never... yes I  said,  never, did my nurse give 
me the wrong medication and I was treated  with the best of exceptional care 
from those fine people!  I have had only  one bad experience with a nurse.  I 
had one nurse at a hospital in B'ham  that gave me the wrong instructions 
regarding post-op care at  home, fortunately, I knew better.  Otherwise, I have 
been  thoroughly blessed with the best of these angels!  Good nurses deserve a  
pat on the back and gratitude for all they have to put up with.  I know....  
rude patients and family members, incompetent techs and nurse assistants, and  
arrogant doctors are the most difficult people to deal with on a weekly  basis. 
Actually, all of my medical care professionals here  in Opelika/Auburn are a 
blessing! 
I think I've preached enough now.  LOL  Love you  SUSAN!!!!   John Dale  
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From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Thu Jun 15 16:17:34 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 16:17:34 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] truckers
References: <20060615093243.C98FDA51@resin06.mta.everyone.net>
	<00c901c6909c$63009bc0$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<010a01c690a9$b214d3e0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<016101c690ac$f61b3270$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<001201c690b1$fb029760$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<02f701c690b4$3ce87c60$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<001501c690ba$f09ff750$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<034501c690bc$c0bea9d0$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<003101c690bf$43093cf0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
Message-ID: <03a401c690c1$1fb3e910$6101a8c0@Lauren>

Fred,
I don't want to prove any point.   I'm only stating facts. They are----  the 
majority of the 18 wheelers on the road are unsafe and have caused numerous 
accidents.
The drivers are popping pills and not adhering to the rules and regulations. 
How many lives are lost on the highways due to these rigs exceeding the 
speed limit or changing lanes?  It's unbelievable.

It's a no win situation all the way around.   You sound more like a trucker 
than a teacher.
SM


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 4:04 PM
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers


> Well, Susan,
>
>    I think you are proving my point.  Why do you think that most of them
> hype themselves up on drugs?  It's so they can keep going and get in more
> miles.  I wouldn't resort to speeding or loading myself up.  And I 
> couldn't
> make a decent living.
>
>    By your own admission, that guy making all the money driving a truck is
> constantly breaking the law to do it.  How about the poor souls that don't
> break the law?  They don't make that much money.  And nobody cares about
> them.
>
>    One trucker was telling me about the incredibly outrageous number of
> hours he drove.  I told him that he'd get caught sooner or later.  But he
> said he had to take the risk to support his family and for them he'd do 
> it.
>
>    As I previously said, getting rid of 'by the mile' pay won't completely
> solve the problem.  But it'll go a long way towards making things better.
>
>    Regards,
>
>
>
> Fred
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 4:46 PM
> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>
>
>> When one RN comes in and gives you the wrong medication and causes you
> great
>> harm---I think that you would be extremely cautious of the whole lot.
> That's
>> human nature.
>>
>> Fred, I'm not blaming the entire trucking industry for the problems of
>> several thousands. But if a poll was taken, I bet more people are having
>> severe problems with big rigs on the road today.  The truckers seem to
> think
>> that they own the road and we cars need to get out of their way.
>> I do get out of their way---way out!
>>
>> Drug abuse crosses all professional boundaries. Vehicular homicide is
>> another story.
>> Sm
>>
>>
>>
>> ----- Original Message -----
>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 3:33 PM
>> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>>
>>
>> > Yes,
>> >
>> >    And should the everyone in the RN profession be blamed every time a
>> > single person violates that trust?
>> >
>> >    Regards,
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> > Fred
>> >
>> > ----- Original Message -----
>> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred atkinson"
>> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 3:45 PM
>> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >
>> >
>> >> RN's, Doctors, Pharmacists, school teachers and professors, Lab techs,
>> >> lawyers. Addicts are everywhere.
>> >> As a RN, I have the State Board of Alabama Nursing regulating me and 
>> >> my
>> >> license. I am subject to drug testing at any time.
>> >> I would never willfully harm a patient.  Is a trucker willfully 
>> >> harming
>> >> himself, the public and everything else as he craws into his rig and
>> > speeds
>> >> along cross country to make a deadline----all to make more money?
>> >>
>> >> Many things need to be changed but they never will because basically
> John
>> > Q
>> >> Public doesn't want them changed. When you get right down to it, the
>> >> truckers are happy with things just the way they are.  They don't more
>> >> and
>> >> more regulations on them. You know---you are part trucker!
>> >> Susan
>> >> ----- Original Message -----
>> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 2:29 PM
>> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> > Susan,
>> >> >
>> >> >    And there aren't some RNs who are using drugs to keep going on 
>> >> > the
>> >> > night
>> >> > shift?
>> >> >
>> >> >    Didn't mean you shouldn't be proud of it.  Just meant that there
> are
>> >> > bad
>> >> > apples in your profession, too.  And that's nothing against RNs as a
>> >> > whole.
>> >> > They are often underpaid as well.
>> >> >
>> >> >    Regards,
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >> > Fred
>> >> >
>> >> > ----- Original Message -----
>> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred atkinson"
>> >> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 2:53 PM
>> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >> >> I'm all for supporting family and such.
>> >> >>
>> >> >> Today's truckers need to incorporate this and have some safety
>> > concerns.
>> >> >> I spoke of my parent's neighbor---he rakes in approx $3000.-$3500
> per
>> >> > week.
>> >> >> Pretty good for a trucker, huh?
>> >> >> Most of it goes for crystal meth.    His family travels with him 
>> >> >> and
>> > when
>> >> >> they don't his 14yr old does.  Kid never goes to school.
>> >> >>
>> >> >> The entire trucking industry needs re-vamping but then again what
>> >> >> industry
>> >> >> doesn't?
>> >> >>
>> >> >> Remember,   I'm RN -- totally 100% ( and proud of it)
>> >> >>
>> >> >> Susan
>> >> >>
>> >> >>
>> >> >> ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 1:29 PM
>> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >>
>> >> >>
>> >> >> > Susan,
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >    There is relief we could reach.
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >    Truckers don't think the world owes them a living.  Many of
> them
>> > are
>> >> >> > just trying to support their families and pay for their homes and
>> >> >> > pay
>> >> >> > their
>> >> >> > taxes.  They don't have the luxury of having their family around
>> >> >> > when
>> >> >> > their
>> >> >> > driving shift ends (the over the road ones, I'm refering to).
> It's
>> >> >> > a
>> >> > hard
>> >> >> > life.  I've lived it and I know.  I chose not to continue living
>> >> >> > that
>> >> > way.
>> >> >> > I was out about three thousand dollars for my driver training 
>> >> >> > when
> I
>> >> > quit,
>> >> >> > too.  Fortunately, I was able to come up with it.  Others aren't
> so
>> >> > lucky.
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >    You're right about the work ethic.  Nonetheless, if we 
>> >> >> > outlawed
>> >> > paying
>> >> >> > by the mile and paid them by the hour plus made them entitled to
> be
>> >> >> > paid
>> >> >> > for
>> >> >> > the things they are required to do that they are not currently
> paid
>> >> >> > for,
>> >> >> > it
>> >> >> > would change.  As with most solutions, it wouldn't solve
> everything.
>> >> > But
>> >> >> > it
>> >> >> > would be a great start.
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >    I doubt there's anyone here that would take a job and work for
>> > free.
>> >> >> > Truckers are required to for a lot of what they do.  They don't
> get
>> >> >> > reimbursed for the meals they get when they travel.  They don't
> get
>> > to
>> >> >> > sleep
>> >> >> > at a hotel as we do when our employers send us traveling.  It
> comes
>> > out
>> >> > of
>> >> >> > their pocket.
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >    Susan, there was no excuse for that trucker and I won't make
>> > excuses
>> >> >> > for
>> >> >> > him.  He belonged in jail and I hope that he is rotting there.
> But
>> >> >> > remember
>> >> >> > that in any profession, there are bad apples.  That's true all 
>> >> >> > the
>> > way
>> >> >> > from
>> >> >> > the educators to the professionals, to the vocational, to the
>> > unskilled
>> >> >> > workers as well.
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >    When I finished my shift and sat in the truckers section in 
>> >> >> > the
>> >> >> > truck
>> >> >> > stop restaurants, I got a chance to get to know some of these
>> >> >> > people.
>> >> >> > I
>> >> >> > was
>> >> >> > amazed at the insights of their political views and the diverse
>> >> >> > backgrounds
>> >> >> > that many of them came from.   I didn't always agree with them,
> but
>> >> >> > I
>> >> >> > could
>> >> >> > see why they took that position and that many of them had really
>> >> >> > thought
>> >> >> > things through.  The caliber of some of those people overwhelmed
> me
>> > at
>> >> >> > times.
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >    Remember, I'm part trucker (and proud of it).
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >    Regards,
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> > Fred
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> > To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> >> > Cc: "fred atkinson" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 12:54 PM
>> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> This is probably true of most jobs. The newcomers have little or
> no
>> >> > work
>> >> >> >> ethics and could care less about anything but the "buck". They
> give
>> >> > about
>> >> >> >> 10% or less on the job.
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> The older worker has respect for his job, others and America.
> Many
>> >> > give
>> >> >> >> 100% or more.
>> >> >> >>  The difference is amazing in the two workers.
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> The sad part is that the newcomers are overtaking the older
> workers
>> >> >> >> and
>> >> >> >> America is suffering.
>> >> >> >>  In my role as an administrator for 27 yrs, I hired and
> terminated
>> >> >> >> RN's
>> >> >> > and
>> >> >> >> others and I would see this over and over.
>> >> >> >> For some unknown reason, 1/2 of the population thinks that
> America
>> >> >> >> owes
>> >> >> > them
>> >> >> >> a living( truckers included)
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> The system is totally messed up and no relief in sight!
>> >> >> >> Susan
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 11:32 AM
>> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >    Regretfully, that is true of the newcomers.
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >    They drug themselves up because they have to keep going.
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >    I never did any of that.  And I made diddly squat.  That 
>> >> >> >> > was
>> > one
>> >> > of
>> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> > reasons I gave it up.
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >    It's a system that rewards those who take dangerous risks
> and
>> >> >> > penalizes
>> >> >> >> > those who break the law.
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >    Yes, it's messed up.
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >    Regards,
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >                                           Fred
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> > --- machen2081 at bellsouth.net wrote:
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> >> > To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>, "Sansom Class of 1972"
>> >> >> >> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >> > Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:50:13 -0500
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> > Fred,
>> >> >> >> > The only way they can make acceptable money is to speed?
> Putting
>> >> >> > hundreds
>> >> >> >> > of thousands of lives at risk every day on the road including
>> > their
>> >> >> >> > own----for them to make some money?
>> >> >> >> > Yea they're speeding all right---with the crap that they are
>> >> > ingesting
>> >> >> > in
>> >> >> >> > a
>> >> >> >> > pill form.
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> > I was a hemodialysis RN for 27 years and I can't begin to tell
>> >> >> >> > you
>> >> > the
>> >> >> >> > number of truckers that I have dialyzed over this period of
> time
>> >> >> >> > because
>> >> >> >> > of
>> >> >> >> > their long term drug abuse. This group was the hardest group 
>> >> >> >> > to
>> > work
>> >> >> > with
>> >> >> >> > due to their non-compliance, disrespect for authority figures
> and
>> >> >> >> > continued
>> >> >> >> > drug abuse.
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> > No Fred, I wouldn't get behind a wheel and speed just to
> increase
>> > my
>> >> >> >> > earnings.. I'm just not made that way.  I have respect for
> human
>> >> > life.
>> >> >> >> > Period.
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> > Transport the goods via railroad. Utilize as few trucks as
>> > possible.
>> >> >> >> > As
>> >> >> >> > for
>> >> >> >> > me, I'm sick of their attitudes---they don't own the roads!
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> > You're right about one thing---one bad apple spoils the whole
>> >> >> > bunch---this
>> >> >> >> > goes for everything in life
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> > Susan
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> >> > From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> >> >> > To: <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 10:26 AM
>> >> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> Yes, Susan,
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >>     There is drug testing before they can even drive.  And
> they
>> > are
>> >> >> >> >> subject to surprised, unannounced drug testing, too.  I've
> been
>> >> > tested
>> >> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >> number of times, myself, all negative.
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >>     Well, you'd probably speed too if you were economically
>> >> >> >> >> enslaved
>> >> >> > and
>> >> >> >> >> the only way to make acceptable money was to speed.  Don't 
>> >> >> >> >> you
>> >> >> >> >> think
>> >> >> >> >> we
>> >> >> >> >> could change the law to fix that?
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >>     I've been around the truck drivers.  Mostly, they are 
>> >> >> >> >> good
>> >> > people
>> >> >> >> >> trying to make a living.  And remember, it only takes one or
> two
>> >> >> > negative
>> >> >> >> >> folks in a stereotyped group (ah, that word) to make a lot of
>> > good
>> >> >> > people
>> >> >> >> >> look bad.
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >>     We live lifestyles that we'd never live if these folks
>> >> >> >> >> didn't
>> >> >> >> >> do
>> >> >
>> >> >> > this
>> >> >> >> >> work for us.  Remember that.  When we pass laws guaranteeing
>> > wages,
>> >> > we
>> >> >> >> >> exempt them from the same laws we make to protect ourselves.
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >>     Regards,
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >>                                             Fred
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> --- tech450 at gmail.com wrote:
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> From: "Rick Peek" <tech450 at gmail.com>
>> >> >> >> >> To: "Sansom Class of 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >> >> Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:13:55 -0500
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> Hey Susan,
>> >> >> >> >> My sentiments on truckers are with you also. Driving from
>> >> >> >> >> Gadsden
>> >> >> >> >> to
>> >> >> >> >> B'ham
>> >> >> >> >> on the interstate for 8 years, all my dealings with truckers
>> >> >> >> >> have
>> >> > been
>> >> >> >> >> negative also. I have been run off the road several times
> myself
>> >> >> >> >> and
>> >> >> > have
>> >> >> >> >> seen them cause numerous accidents, some of which I barely
>> >> >> >> >> missed
>> >> >> >> >> being
>> >> >> >> >> in
>> >> >> >> >> myself. I have hit debris many times that was left in the 
>> >> >> >> >> road
>> >> >> >> >> by
>> >> >> >> >> truckers
>> >> >> >> >> and almost made me wreck and once hit some scrap metal that
> fell
>> >> >> >> >> off
>> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >> truck
>> >> >> >> >> and shredded my new tires and almost made me wreck. I have
> also
>> > had
>> >> > my
>> >> >> >> >> winsheild cracked and paint knocked off by flying rocks that
>> >> >> >> >> fell
>> >> > off
>> >> >> >> >> trucks. I'm on your side.
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> Rick P.
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> On 6/15/06, machen2081 at bellsouth.net
> <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> > wrote:
>> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>> Ah Fred,
>> >> >> >> >>> I read and re-read your article with great interest.  I
> wonder
>> > why
>> >> >> >> >>> you
>> >> >> >> >>> would put so much time and energy into such an article.
>> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>> You see truck drivers really strike a chord with me and I'll
>> > tell
>> >> > you
>> >> >> >> >>> why.
>> >> >> >> >>> I'm sure there are many great truck drivers on the road with
> a
>> >> >> >> >>> safe
>> >> >> >> >>> driving
>> >> >> >> >>> record. I haven't met many. You stated that people feel 
>> >> >> >> >>> anger
>> >> > towards
>> >> >> >> >>> truck
>> >> >> >> >>> drivers because of the manner in which they drive on the 
>> >> >> >> >>> open
>> >> >> >> >>> highway.  You
>> >> >> >> >>> are so correct.   My article may offend you....
>> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>> In 1984, I was taking my mother to and from Birmingham for
> her
>> >> > chemo
>> >> >> >> >>> treatments three times per week.  On one Wednesday 
>> >> >> >> >>> afternoon,
> I
>> >> >> >> >>> was
>> >> >> >> >>> driving
>> >> >> >> >>> her red car home with her reclined in the riders side. I was
> on
>> >> >> >> >>> the
>> >> >> > left
>> >> >> >> >>> side of  highway I-59 and a "wonderful"truck driver flew by
> and
>> >> > took
>> >> >> > off
>> >> >> >> >>> the
>> >> >> >> >>> entire side of her car( my mother's side.) He swerved over
> into
>> > my
>> >> >> > lane.
>> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>> He never stopped and kept going at approx 90 miles per hr.
> I'm
>> >> >> >> >>> sure
>> >> >> >> >>> to
>> >> >> >> >>> deliver his goods to a store! I had to chase him down and
> lucky
>> >> >> >> >>> for
>> >> >> >> >>> us
>> >> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >>> statetrooper was a few miles away.
>> >> >> >> >>> I finally got the truck to stop. The driver jumped out(all
>> >> >> >> >>> 4'10"
>> >> >> >> >>> of
>> >> >> > him
>> >> >> >> >>> and
>> >> >> >> >>> proceeded to cuss me out and even hit me.I was pregnant at
> the
>> >> > time)
>> >> >> >> >>> He was stoned out of his mind. At this point,  I was all 
>> >> >> >> >>> over
>> > him
>> >> > and
>> >> >> >> >>> since
>> >> >> >> >>> my mother was only slightly injured she had to pull me off 
>> >> >> >> >>> of
>> > him.
>> >> > He
>> >> >> >> >>> denied
>> >> >> >> >>> the hit and run---cars were pulled over for witnesses and 
>> >> >> >> >>> the
>> >> > trooper
>> >> >> >> >>> had
>> >> >> >> >>> arrived.
>> >> >> >> >>> Long story short---This precious trucker was stoned on
> Demerol,
>> >> >> > morphine
>> >> >> >> >>> and
>> >> >> >> >>> being serviced by his boyfriend(also stoned)when he nearly
>> > killed
>> >> > us.
>> >> >> >> >>> Red
>> >> >> >> >>> paint was all over his wheels--he went to jail with many
>> >> >> >> >>> charges!!!
>> >> >> > This
>> >> >> >> >>> wasn't the first time for him either.
>> >> >> >> >>> How do these guys pass drug testing?  Is there drug testing?
>> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>> Like you said.... It isn't whether or not he's at fault that
>> >> > matters.
>> >> >> >> >>> You
>> >> >> >> >>> may have run into him but the question is.. could he have
> done
>> >> >> > something
>> >> >> >> >>> to
>> >> >> >> >>> prevent it from happening?    You figure it out!
>> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>> My parents live next door to a trucker ....This trucker
> steals
>> >> > goods,
>> >> >> >> >>> lets
>> >> >> >> >>> his 14yr drive his 18wheeler on long trips while he sleeps,
> and
>> > is
>> >> >> >> >>> addicted
>> >> >> >> >>> to crystal meth.
>> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>> My daughter and I just went to Anniston yesterday and were
> run
>> > off
>> >> >> >> >>> the
>> >> >> >> >>> road
>> >> >> >> >>> by a 18 wheeler and then the thing kept
>> >> >> >> >>> chasing us for miles. I called the police but the truck had
>> >> >> >> >>> left
>> >> >> >> >>> by
>> >> >> > that
>> >> >> >> >>> time. A report was taken.
>> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>> As you can see, I have little respect for truckers. My
> dealings
>> >> > have
>> >> >> > not
>> >> >> >> >>> been good. Many are slaves to drugs to keep them going these
>> > long,
>> >> >> >> >>> grueling
>> >> >> >> >>> hours.
>> >> >> >> >>> My hats are off to the good ones.
>> >> >> >> >>> Susan
>> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>> ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> >> >>> >>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>> To: "Rebels 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>> Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2006 8:52 PM
>> >> >> >> >>> >>> Subject: [Rebels1972] Economic Slavery on the Highways
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    I'd like to share some ideas about some of the 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> people
>> > who
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> make
>> >> >> >> >>> this
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> country great.  They are often the most unappreciated
>> > people
>> >> > in
>> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> world.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    We take them so much for granted despite all that
> they
>> >> >> >> >>> do.  Everyone
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> seems to think that the goods on the shelf at your 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> store
>> > just
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> appear
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> there
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> magically.  The materials to build your home, school, 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> or
>> >> >> > workplace
>> >> >> >> >>> were
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> always there.  The fuel that makes your car run does 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not
>> > just
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> appear
>> >> >> >> >>> at
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> pump.  And there are many other material goods we rely
> on
>> > to
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> maintain
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> standard of living.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    There are thousands of good Americans that transport
>> > these
>> >> >> >> >>> materials
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> us.  They aren't heralded and they get no fanfare.  Man
>> > live
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> lifestyle of
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> separation from their families and work an incredible
>> > number
>> >> > of
>> >> >> >> >>> hours.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> It
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> is their plight I wish to discuss.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    When the economy went sour at the end of 2001, I
> spoke
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with
>> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> recruiter
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for a national trucking company, she arranged for me to
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> travel
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Memphis,
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Tennessee and attend a three week school that would 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> help
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> me
>> >> > get
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> >> >>> Class
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> A
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> commercial driver's license with all the required
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> endorsements
>> >> >> > and
>> >> >> >> >>> the
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> training required for the company to hire me as an over
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> > road
>> >> >> >> >>> truck
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driver.  The cost of attending the truck school was 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> over
>> > five
>> >> >> >> >>> thousand
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> dollars and I was expected to be responsible for the
> cost
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> myself.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was not
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensated in any way for the time I spent in school.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    I went to truck driving school with a lot of people
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> from
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> different
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> parts
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of the country and different backgrounds.  After we
>> > completed
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
>> >> >> >> >>> first
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> week
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in school, we passed our written exams to get our
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> learner's
>> >> >> > permits
>> >> >> >> >>> and
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> medical certificates, which were required to operate 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> > big
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> eighteen
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> wheelers.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    The next week was range training.  We learned all
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> manner
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
>> >> >> >> >>> backing.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Backing was not like backing a car.  It required a 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> whole
>> >> >> > different
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> twist.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> To back a truck to the right one must turn the wheel to
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> > left
>> >> >> >> >>> until
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> truck jacks to the right.  Then you turn the wheel to
> the
>> >> > right
>> >> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> follow
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the trailer and keep it on the right path.  Even 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> backing
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
>> > a
>> >> >> >> >>> straight
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> line
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was difficult.  But we learned our required backing
> skills
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> during
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> second
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> week and went on for the road training.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    We drove all over western Tennessee, eastern
> Arkansas,
>> > and
>> >> >> >> >>> northern
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Mississippi.  To the end of the third week we completed
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> training
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> passed our road tests.  When we returned to school the
>> >> > following
>> >> >> >> >>> week,
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> we
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were taken to the DMV to get our Class A commercial
>> > driver's
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> licenses
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> late we were assigned to a driver who would train us
> while
>> > we
>> >> >> > were
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> actually
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> transporting goods all over the country.  We were paid
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> only
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> fifty
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> dollars
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> per day while we trained regardless of the miles 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driven.
>> >> > Since
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driver
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> often drives between four and five hundred miles per
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> shift,
>> >> > that
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> amounts to
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> as little as ten cents per mile or less.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    These three weeks of driver training was done with 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and a
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> legal requirement that you repay the company for the
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> training.
>> >> >> > Of
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> course,
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they pro-rated the cost over two years and made the
>> > payments
>> >> > for
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> your
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> as
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> long as you worked for them.  But if you found it
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> necessary
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> leave,
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were on the hook for the pro-rated part of the money 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you
>> > owe.
>> >> >> > This
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> makes it
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> difficult to leave if you are unhappy with the working
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> situation.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    After I completed the training with my instructor, I
>> > began
>> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >>> learn
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> things I never knew.  I knew that truck drivers were
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> typically
>> >> >> > away
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> from
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> home for months at a time.  I never knew that they are
> not
>> >> >> > covered
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> by
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> wage and hour laws (overtime?  What is that?).  Truck
>> > drivers
>> >> >> > don't
>> >> >> >> >>> get
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> overtime even though they constantly work in excess of
>> > sixty
>> >> >> > hours
>> >> >> >> >>> per
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> week.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> They get paid for the miles they drive and (on 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> occasion)
>> > for
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> loading
>> >> >> >> >>> or
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> unloading a truck, not for the time they work.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Many responsibilities that truck drivers perform are
>> >> > without
>> >> >> > any
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation.  The Department of Transportation 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> requires
>> > that
>> >> >> > they
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> perform a
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> complete and thorough pre-trip safety inspection each
> day,
>> >> > which
>> >> >> >> >>> takes
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> fifteen minutes of their time.  They receive no
>> > compensation
>> >> > for
>> >> >> >> >>> their
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> time
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to perform this.  When they weigh and balance a truck 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> > make
>> >> >> > sure
>> >> >> >> >>> the
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> load
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> is legal on the highway, they receive no compensation
> for
>> >> > that,
>> >> >> >> >>> either.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    When they hitch or unhitch a trailer, they receive 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that task.  When a shipper or receiver makes them stand
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> around
>> >> >> > and
>> >> >> >> >>> wait
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> their load to be loaded or unloaded from a trailer, the
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driver
>> >> >> >> >>> receives
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation for the time he is there idle while the
>> > shipper
>> >> > or
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> receiver
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> focuses on other things (unless he is paid for loading
> or
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> unloading,
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> which
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> isn't often).
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    And the driver is never guaranteed to get a shipment
> to
>> >> >> >> >>> move.  There
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were a number of times where I sat at a truck stop in a
>> >> > strange
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> city
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with no
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> load.  Our company compensated us forty dollars per day
> if
>> >> > they
>> >> >> > had
>> >> >> >> >>> no
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> load
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for us.  Imagine that, only forty dollars for a single
> day
>> > of
>> >> >> > your
>> >> >> >> >>> life
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (and
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not all drivers even get that) away from your family,
>> >> > community,
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> friends.  And the per mile rates for new drivers are
> very
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> low.
>> >> >> > One
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> asked to pick up a trailer, weigh it to make sure it 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
>> >> > legally
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> balanced,
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and transport it to the nearest company terminal for
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> reassignment to another driver.  For my several hours 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> work,
>> >> > I
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> received
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> approximately twelve dollars for my efforts.  It
> amounted
>> > to
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> less
>> >> >> >> >>> than
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> minimum wage.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Truck drivers get no respect.  Once when I was at a
>> >> > truckstop
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> near
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Canadian border in Maine, a driver told me that his CB
>> > handle
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'Caucasian
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> scumbag'.  He said that he chose that handle because of
>> > what
>> >> > his
>> >> >> >> >>> father
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (also a truck driver) told him.  Truck driving is an
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> honorable
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> profession,
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> but you will never get any respect.  Sadly, I found
> myself
>> >> >> > agreeing
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> him.  A few examples follow.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Once I made a delivery at a warehouse.  After
> 'bumping
>> > the
>> >> >> > dock'
>> >> >> >> >>> (an
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> expression used that means you have parked the trailer
> at
>> > the
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> loading
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> dock
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> so it can be loaded or unloaded), I found a door marked
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'driver's
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> entrance'.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> When I stepped inside the door, I found myself standing
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> inside
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
>> >> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> cage
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (subhuman treatment).
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    I once made a pickup at a major customer.  As my
> hours
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> almost
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> used
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> up when I made the pickup, I parked the truck outside
> the
>> >> > front
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gate
>> >> >> >> >>> in
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> area where truckers were allowed to park and get the
>> > required
>> >> >> > time
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> sleeper before they were allowed to drive again.  When 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
>> >> > walked
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> back
>> >> >> >> >>> to
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gate requesting to use the restroom, they refused 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> saying
>> > that
>> >> >> >> >>> driver's
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> weren't allowed to use the restrooms in the facility. 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
>> > had
>> >> > to
>> >> >> > go
>> >> >> >> >>> and
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> relieve myself in the middle of an open field because
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> there
>> >> > was
>> >> >> > no
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> other
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> place provided for the drivers.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    People often feel anger towards truck drivers 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> because
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
>> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >>> manner
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> which they drive on the open highways.  I did not 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> engage
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
>> >> > such
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driving and
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I did not approve of those who did.  But think of what
> it
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> cost
>> >> >> > me.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Slowing
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> down reduced the amount of money I made.  Remember that
>> > many
>> >> > of
>> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> lesser
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> experienced drivers are not all that well paid 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (contrary
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >>> stories
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> about how well truck drivers are paid).  When you are
> paid
>> > by
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >>> mile
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> at
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> such a rate as twenty-seven cents a mile and only
> allowed
>> > to
>> >> >> > drive
>> >> >> >> >>> for
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> limited number of hours, making more money requires 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that
>> > you
>> >> >> > floor
>> >> >> >> >>> it.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> When
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a driver is caught in a traffic jam, he is sitting 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> there
>> >> > burning
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> his
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driving
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hours and getting no compensation for it.  He cannot
> drive
>> >> > extra
>> >> >> >> >>> hours
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> make up for it or the Department of Transportation will
>> > fine
>> >> > him
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> when
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> audit his driving logbook.  To that end, some drivers
>> > falsify
>> >> >> > their
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> logbook
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to drive more miles.  This means that they are driving
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> over
>> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >>> number
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hours it is safe for a person's body to be alert enough
> to
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> handle
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> eighty-thousand pound multi-vehicle truck and creates 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
>> >> >> > additional
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hazard.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Truck drivers would like to see that changed, but
> it's
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> difficult.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'Over
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the road' drivers are away from home for months at a
> time.
>> >> >> > Because
>> >> >> >> >>> of
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they don't get to vote.  Politicians look at those
>> > statistics
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
>> >> >> >> >>> they
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> realize that spending time helping truck drivers does
> not
>> >> > yield
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> them
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> additional votes.  This does not motivate the
> politicians
>> > to
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> make
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> things any
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> easier for them.  Once, a driver told me that he had
> tried
>> > to
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> get
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> absentee ballot.  He was asked where he'd be on 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> election
>> > day.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> He
>> >> >> >> >>> told
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> them
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> he had no way of knowing because he was sent to
> different
>> >> > places
>> >> >> >> >>> often
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> on
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> only a few hours notice.  Because he couldn't tell them
>> > where
>> >> >> > he'd
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> be
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> on
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> election day, they denied him an absentee ballot.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    As long as we continue to pay our over the road
> drivers
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'by
>> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> mile'
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> instead of by the hour and pay them for the things 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> truck
>> >> > drivers
>> >> >> > do
>> >> >> >> >>> for
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation every day, the way many truck drivers
> operate
>> >> > their
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> vehicles is
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not going to change.  There is significant legislative
>> > reform
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> needed
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> but no
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> political incentive to perform it.  And many of these
> good
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> people
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> continue
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to suffer while making a living to support their
> families
>> >> > (with
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> whom
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> are able to spend very little time with).  The next 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> time
>> > you
>> >> >> > enjoy
>> >> >> >> >>> your
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> breakfast, buy nice new clothes at the store, fill up
> your
>> >> > tank
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gasoline, or partake of any number of other countless
>> > things,
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> should
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> remember that truck drivers brought those materials to
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Imagine if the trucks stopped rolling for a week.
> We'd
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> experience
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gas
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> shortages, food shortages, and have to learn to do
> without
>> >> > many
>> >> >> >> >>> things.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    When a driver is involved in a traffic accident, it
>> > isn't
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> whether
>> >> >> >> >>> or
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> he is at fault that matters.  You may have run into him
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> but
>> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> question is
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> could he have done something to prevent it from
> happening?
>> >> > Even
>> >> >> > if
>> >> >> >> >>> he
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not at fault in the accident, it often is still 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> reported
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> on
>> >> > his
>> >> >> >> >>> driving
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> record as 'preventable' (which stacks against him when
> his
>> >> >> > driving
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> record is
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> reviewed for insurance or for possible employment with 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> > different
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> trucking
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> company).  Imagine that, you caused the accident but
> they
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hold
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> it
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> against
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the truck driver anyway.  He is responsible for 
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> managing
>> >> > *your*
>> >> >> >> >>> driving
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> safety habits.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    These dramatically under appreciated people live a
>> >> > lifestyle
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that
>> >> >> >> >>> I
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> don't understand how they continue to live day in and
> day
>> > out
>> >> >> > year
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> after
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> year.  Essentially they are slaves to our system and we
>> >> > continue
>> >> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> take
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> advantage of them paying many of them low wages and
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> working
>> >> > them
>> >> >> > at
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> schedule that would cause most of us to experience
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> complete
>> >> >> >> >>> exhaustion.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    My hat is off to them and I think about them from
> time
>> > to
>> >> >> >> >>> time.  God
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> bless our truck drivers.
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> _______________________________________________
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>
>> >> >> >> >>> >>
>> >> >> >> >>> >
>> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>> _______________________________________________
>> >> >> >> >>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >> >> >> >>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >>> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> --
>> >> >> >> >> Rick Peek
>> >> >> >> >> Tech450 at gmail.com
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________
>> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________
>> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >
>> >> >>
>> >> >>
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >>
>> >>
>> >
>> >
>>
>>
>
> 




From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Thu Jun 15 16:22:30 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 16:22:30 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] Blessed with great nurses!
References: <393.50577fd.31c3272f@aol.com>
Message-ID: <03b301c690c1$cf52dd40$6101a8c0@Lauren>

thanks JD,
for those sweet words. Nurses are generally caring people but you will find a bad apple everywhere. 
SM
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
  To: Rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
  Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 4:12 PM
  Subject: [Rebels1972] Blessed with great nurses!


  Shazzam: I can talk about nurses.  I work in the medical field as a hospital minister/chaplain for my church.  Also, I have had surgery 13 different times over the last 16 years as a patient.  Out of those 16 times, I was an inpatient for over half of those.  Never... yes I said,  never, did my nurse give me the wrong medication and I was treated with the best of exceptional care from those fine people!  I have had only one bad experience with a nurse.  I had one nurse at a hospital in B'ham that gave me the wrong instructions regarding post-op care at home, fortunately, I knew better.  Otherwise, I have been thoroughly blessed with the best of these angels!  Good nurses deserve a pat on the back and gratitude for all they have to put up with.  I know.... rude patients and family members, incompetent techs and nurse assistants, and arrogant doctors are the most difficult people to deal with on a weekly basis. Actually, all of my medical care professionals here in Opelika/Auburn are a blessing! 
  I think I've preached enough now.  LOL  Love you SUSAN!!!!   John Dale  


------------------------------------------------------------------------------


  _______________________________________________
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From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Thu Jun 15 20:09:28 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 20:09:28 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] truckers
References: <20060615093243.C98FDA51@resin06.mta.everyone.net>
	<00c901c6909c$63009bc0$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<010a01c690a9$b214d3e0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<016101c690ac$f61b3270$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<001201c690b1$fb029760$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<02f701c690b4$3ce87c60$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<001501c690ba$f09ff750$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<034501c690bc$c0bea9d0$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<003101c690bf$43093cf0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<03a401c690c1$1fb3e910$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<001e01c690dc$80f0fe00$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
Message-ID: <004401c690e1$84cf7e70$6101a8c0@Lauren>

I'd love to know where you get your statistics Fred.... from your 
bellybutton lint?
And why is it our fault?  We need to eat and sustain life.. We need 
commodities to keep our lives afloat...
Heck fire,  I don't make those rules and regs that they don't abide by and I 
don't shove the uppers down their throats and needles in their veins.

Getting laws changed to help them?  Most of them don't want the laws 
changed---they like it just the way it is. More money is to be made the way 
it is right now.   Most truckers are a necessary evil.

Now let's move on to another subject--this is getting boring Fred.  How's 
your summer?

Susan
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 7:33 PM
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers


> Susan,
>
>    Not the majority.  But a lot of them.  And a lot of it is economically
> motivated.  And that is our own fault.
>
>    Regards,
>
>
>
>
> Fred
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred atkinson"
> <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 5:17 PM
> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>
>
>> Fred,
>> I don't want to prove any point.   I'm only stating facts. They are----
> the
>> majority of the 18 wheelers on the road are unsafe and have caused
> numerous
>> accidents.
>> The drivers are popping pills and not adhering to the rules and
> regulations.
>> How many lives are lost on the highways due to these rigs exceeding the
>> speed limit or changing lanes?  It's unbelievable.
>>
>> It's a no win situation all the way around.   You sound more like a
> trucker
>> than a teacher.
>> SM
>>
>>
>> ----- Original Message -----
>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 4:04 PM
>> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>>
>>
>> > Well, Susan,
>> >
>> >    I think you are proving my point.  Why do you think that most of 
>> > them
>> > hype themselves up on drugs?  It's so they can keep going and get in
> more
>> > miles.  I wouldn't resort to speeding or loading myself up.  And I
>> > couldn't
>> > make a decent living.
>> >
>> >    By your own admission, that guy making all the money driving a truck
> is
>> > constantly breaking the law to do it.  How about the poor souls that
> don't
>> > break the law?  They don't make that much money.  And nobody cares 
>> > about
>> > them.
>> >
>> >    One trucker was telling me about the incredibly outrageous number of
>> > hours he drove.  I told him that he'd get caught sooner or later.  But
> he
>> > said he had to take the risk to support his family and for them he'd do
>> > it.
>> >
>> >    As I previously said, getting rid of 'by the mile' pay won't
> completely
>> > solve the problem.  But it'll go a long way towards making things
> better.
>> >
>> >    Regards,
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> > Fred
>> >
>> > ----- Original Message -----
>> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 4:46 PM
>> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >
>> >
>> >> When one RN comes in and gives you the wrong medication and causes you
>> > great
>> >> harm---I think that you would be extremely cautious of the whole lot.
>> > That's
>> >> human nature.
>> >>
>> >> Fred, I'm not blaming the entire trucking industry for the problems of
>> >> several thousands. But if a poll was taken, I bet more people are
> having
>> >> severe problems with big rigs on the road today.  The truckers seem to
>> > think
>> >> that they own the road and we cars need to get out of their way.
>> >> I do get out of their way---way out!
>> >>
>> >> Drug abuse crosses all professional boundaries. Vehicular homicide is
>> >> another story.
>> >> Sm
>> >>
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> ----- Original Message -----
>> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 3:33 PM
>> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> > Yes,
>> >> >
>> >> >    And should the everyone in the RN profession be blamed every time
> a
>> >> > single person violates that trust?
>> >> >
>> >> >    Regards,
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >> > Fred
>> >> >
>> >> > ----- Original Message -----
>> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred atkinson"
>> >> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 3:45 PM
>> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >> >> RN's, Doctors, Pharmacists, school teachers and professors, Lab
> techs,
>> >> >> lawyers. Addicts are everywhere.
>> >> >> As a RN, I have the State Board of Alabama Nursing regulating me 
>> >> >> and
>> >> >> my
>> >> >> license. I am subject to drug testing at any time.
>> >> >> I would never willfully harm a patient.  Is a trucker willfully
>> >> >> harming
>> >> >> himself, the public and everything else as he craws into his rig 
>> >> >> and
>> >> > speeds
>> >> >> along cross country to make a deadline----all to make more money?
>> >> >>
>> >> >> Many things need to be changed but they never will because 
>> >> >> basically
>> > John
>> >> > Q
>> >> >> Public doesn't want them changed. When you get right down to it, 
>> >> >> the
>> >> >> truckers are happy with things just the way they are.  They don't
> more
>> >> >> and
>> >> >> more regulations on them. You know---you are part trucker!
>> >> >> Susan
>> >> >> ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 2:29 PM
>> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >>
>> >> >>
>> >> >> > Susan,
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >    And there aren't some RNs who are using drugs to keep going on
>> >> >> > the
>> >> >> > night
>> >> >> > shift?
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >    Didn't mean you shouldn't be proud of it.  Just meant that
> there
>> > are
>> >> >> > bad
>> >> >> > apples in your profession, too.  And that's nothing against RNs 
>> >> >> > as
> a
>> >> >> > whole.
>> >> >> > They are often underpaid as well.
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >    Regards,
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> > Fred
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred atkinson"
>> >> >> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 2:53 PM
>> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> I'm all for supporting family and such.
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> Today's truckers need to incorporate this and have some safety
>> >> > concerns.
>> >> >> >> I spoke of my parent's neighbor---he rakes in approx 
>> >> >> >> $3000.-$3500
>> > per
>> >> >> > week.
>> >> >> >> Pretty good for a trucker, huh?
>> >> >> >> Most of it goes for crystal meth.    His family travels with him
>> >> >> >> and
>> >> > when
>> >> >> >> they don't his 14yr old does.  Kid never goes to school.
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> The entire trucking industry needs re-vamping but then again 
>> >> >> >> what
>> >> >> >> industry
>> >> >> >> doesn't?
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> Remember,   I'm RN -- totally 100% ( and proud of it)
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> Susan
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 1:29 PM
>> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> > Susan,
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >    There is relief we could reach.
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >    Truckers don't think the world owes them a living.  Many of
>> > them
>> >> > are
>> >> >> >> > just trying to support their families and pay for their homes
> and
>> >> >> >> > pay
>> >> >> >> > their
>> >> >> >> > taxes.  They don't have the luxury of having their family
> around
>> >> >> >> > when
>> >> >> >> > their
>> >> >> >> > driving shift ends (the over the road ones, I'm refering to).
>> > It's
>> >> >> >> > a
>> >> >> > hard
>> >> >> >> > life.  I've lived it and I know.  I chose not to continue
> living
>> >> >> >> > that
>> >> >> > way.
>> >> >> >> > I was out about three thousand dollars for my driver training
>> >> >> >> > when
>> > I
>> >> >> > quit,
>> >> >> >> > too.  Fortunately, I was able to come up with it.  Others
> aren't
>> > so
>> >> >> > lucky.
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >    You're right about the work ethic.  Nonetheless, if we
>> >> >> >> > outlawed
>> >> >> > paying
>> >> >> >> > by the mile and paid them by the hour plus made them entitled
> to
>> > be
>> >> >> >> > paid
>> >> >> >> > for
>> >> >> >> > the things they are required to do that they are not currently
>> > paid
>> >> >> >> > for,
>> >> >> >> > it
>> >> >> >> > would change.  As with most solutions, it wouldn't solve
>> > everything.
>> >> >> > But
>> >> >> >> > it
>> >> >> >> > would be a great start.
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >    I doubt there's anyone here that would take a job and work
> for
>> >> > free.
>> >> >> >> > Truckers are required to for a lot of what they do.  They 
>> >> >> >> > don't
>> > get
>> >> >> >> > reimbursed for the meals they get when they travel.  They 
>> >> >> >> > don't
>> > get
>> >> > to
>> >> >> >> > sleep
>> >> >> >> > at a hotel as we do when our employers send us traveling.  It
>> > comes
>> >> > out
>> >> >> > of
>> >> >> >> > their pocket.
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >    Susan, there was no excuse for that trucker and I won't 
>> >> >> >> > make
>> >> > excuses
>> >> >> >> > for
>> >> >> >> > him.  He belonged in jail and I hope that he is rotting there.
>> > But
>> >> >> >> > remember
>> >> >> >> > that in any profession, there are bad apples.  That's true all
>> >> >> >> > the
>> >> > way
>> >> >> >> > from
>> >> >> >> > the educators to the professionals, to the vocational, to the
>> >> > unskilled
>> >> >> >> > workers as well.
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >    When I finished my shift and sat in the truckers section in
>> >> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> > truck
>> >> >> >> > stop restaurants, I got a chance to get to know some of these
>> >> >> >> > people.
>> >> >> >> > I
>> >> >> >> > was
>> >> >> >> > amazed at the insights of their political views and the 
>> >> >> >> > diverse
>> >> >> >> > backgrounds
>> >> >> >> > that many of them came from.   I didn't always agree with 
>> >> >> >> > them,
>> > but
>> >> >> >> > I
>> >> >> >> > could
>> >> >> >> > see why they took that position and that many of them had
> really
>> >> >> >> > thought
>> >> >> >> > things through.  The caliber of some of those people
> overwhelmed
>> > me
>> >> > at
>> >> >> >> > times.
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >    Remember, I'm part trucker (and proud of it).
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >    Regards,
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> > Fred
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> >> > To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> >> >> > Cc: "fred atkinson" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 12:54 PM
>> >> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> This is probably true of most jobs. The newcomers have little
> or
>> > no
>> >> >> > work
>> >> >> >> >> ethics and could care less about anything but the "buck". 
>> >> >> >> >> They
>> > give
>> >> >> > about
>> >> >> >> >> 10% or less on the job.
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> The older worker has respect for his job, others and America.
>> > Many
>> >> >> > give
>> >> >> >> >> 100% or more.
>> >> >> >> >>  The difference is amazing in the two workers.
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> The sad part is that the newcomers are overtaking the older
>> > workers
>> >> >> >> >> and
>> >> >> >> >> America is suffering.
>> >> >> >> >>  In my role as an administrator for 27 yrs, I hired and
>> > terminated
>> >> >> >> >> RN's
>> >> >> >> > and
>> >> >> >> >> others and I would see this over and over.
>> >> >> >> >> For some unknown reason, 1/2 of the population thinks that
>> > America
>> >> >> >> >> owes
>> >> >> >> > them
>> >> >> >> >> a living( truckers included)
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> The system is totally messed up and no relief in sight!
>> >> >> >> >> Susan
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> >> >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 11:32 AM
>> >> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >    Regretfully, that is true of the newcomers.
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >    They drug themselves up because they have to keep going.
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >    I never did any of that.  And I made diddly squat.  That
>> >> >> >> >> > was
>> >> > one
>> >> >> > of
>> >> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> > reasons I gave it up.
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >    It's a system that rewards those who take dangerous 
>> >> >> >> >> > risks
>> > and
>> >> >> >> > penalizes
>> >> >> >> >> > those who break the law.
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >    Yes, it's messed up.
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >    Regards,
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >                                           Fred
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> > --- machen2081 at bellsouth.net wrote:
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> >> >> > To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>, "Sansom Class of 1972"
>> >> >> >> >> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >> >> > Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:50:13 -0500
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> > Fred,
>> >> >> >> >> > The only way they can make acceptable money is to speed?
>> > Putting
>> >> >> >> > hundreds
>> >> >> >> >> > of thousands of lives at risk every day on the road
> including
>> >> > their
>> >> >> >> >> > own----for them to make some money?
>> >> >> >> >> > Yea they're speeding all right---with the crap that they 
>> >> >> >> >> > are
>> >> >> > ingesting
>> >> >> >> > in
>> >> >> >> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >> > pill form.
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> > I was a hemodialysis RN for 27 years and I can't begin to
> tell
>> >> >> >> >> > you
>> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> > number of truckers that I have dialyzed over this period of
>> > time
>> >> >> >> >> > because
>> >> >> >> >> > of
>> >> >> >> >> > their long term drug abuse. This group was the hardest 
>> >> >> >> >> > group
>> >> >> >> >> > to
>> >> > work
>> >> >> >> > with
>> >> >> >> >> > due to their non-compliance, disrespect for authority
> figures
>> > and
>> >> >> >> >> > continued
>> >> >> >> >> > drug abuse.
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> > No Fred, I wouldn't get behind a wheel and speed just to
>> > increase
>> >> > my
>> >> >> >> >> > earnings.. I'm just not made that way.  I have respect for
>> > human
>> >> >> > life.
>> >> >> >> >> > Period.
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> > Transport the goods via railroad. Utilize as few trucks as
>> >> > possible.
>> >> >> >> >> > As
>> >> >> >> >> > for
>> >> >> >> >> > me, I'm sick of their attitudes---they don't own the roads!
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> > You're right about one thing---one bad apple spoils the
> whole
>> >> >> >> > bunch---this
>> >> >> >> >> > goes for everything in life
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> > Susan
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> >> >> > From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> >> >> >> > To: <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >> >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 10:26 AM
>> >> >> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> Yes, Susan,
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>     There is drug testing before they can even drive.  And
>> > they
>> >> > are
>> >> >> >> >> >> subject to surprised, unannounced drug testing, too.  I've
>> > been
>> >> >> > tested
>> >> >> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >> >> number of times, myself, all negative.
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>     Well, you'd probably speed too if you were 
>> >> >> >> >> >> economically
>> >> >> >> >> >> enslaved
>> >> >> >> > and
>> >> >> >> >> >> the only way to make acceptable money was to speed.  Don't
>> >> >> >> >> >> you
>> >> >> >> >> >> think
>> >> >> >> >> >> we
>> >> >> >> >> >> could change the law to fix that?
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>     I've been around the truck drivers.  Mostly, they are
>> >> >> >> >> >> good
>> >> >> > people
>> >> >> >> >> >> trying to make a living.  And remember, it only takes one
> or
>> > two
>> >> >> >> > negative
>> >> >> >> >> >> folks in a stereotyped group (ah, that word) to make a lot
> of
>> >> > good
>> >> >> >> > people
>> >> >> >> >> >> look bad.
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>     We live lifestyles that we'd never live if these folks
>> >> >> >> >> >> didn't
>> >> >> >> >> >> do
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> > this
>> >> >> >> >> >> work for us.  Remember that.  When we pass laws
> guaranteeing
>> >> > wages,
>> >> >> > we
>> >> >> >> >> >> exempt them from the same laws we make to protect
> ourselves.
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>     Regards,
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>                                             Fred
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> --- tech450 at gmail.com wrote:
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> From: "Rick Peek" <tech450 at gmail.com>
>> >> >> >> >> >> To: "Sansom Class of 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >> >> >> Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:13:55 -0500
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> Hey Susan,
>> >> >> >> >> >> My sentiments on truckers are with you also. Driving from
>> >> >> >> >> >> Gadsden
>> >> >> >> >> >> to
>> >> >> >> >> >> B'ham
>> >> >> >> >> >> on the interstate for 8 years, all my dealings with
> truckers
>> >> >> >> >> >> have
>> >> >> > been
>> >> >> >> >> >> negative also. I have been run off the road several times
>> > myself
>> >> >> >> >> >> and
>> >> >> >> > have
>> >> >> >> >> >> seen them cause numerous accidents, some of which I barely
>> >> >> >> >> >> missed
>> >> >> >> >> >> being
>> >> >> >> >> >> in
>> >> >> >> >> >> myself. I have hit debris many times that was left in the
>> >> >> >> >> >> road
>> >> >> >> >> >> by
>> >> >> >> >> >> truckers
>> >> >> >> >> >> and almost made me wreck and once hit some scrap metal 
>> >> >> >> >> >> that
>> > fell
>> >> >> >> >> >> off
>> >> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >> >> truck
>> >> >> >> >> >> and shredded my new tires and almost made me wreck. I have
>> > also
>> >> > had
>> >> >> > my
>> >> >> >> >> >> winsheild cracked and paint knocked off by flying rocks
> that
>> >> >> >> >> >> fell
>> >> >> > off
>> >> >> >> >> >> trucks. I'm on your side.
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> Rick P.
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> On 6/15/06, machen2081 at bellsouth.net
>> > <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> > wrote:
>> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> Ah Fred,
>> >> >> >> >> >>> I read and re-read your article with great interest.  I
>> > wonder
>> >> > why
>> >> >> >> >> >>> you
>> >> >> >> >> >>> would put so much time and energy into such an article.
>> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> You see truck drivers really strike a chord with me and
> I'll
>> >> > tell
>> >> >> > you
>> >> >> >> >> >>> why.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> I'm sure there are many great truck drivers on the road
> with
>> > a
>> >> >> >> >> >>> safe
>> >> >> >> >> >>> driving
>> >> >> >> >> >>> record. I haven't met many. You stated that people feel
>> >> >> >> >> >>> anger
>> >> >> > towards
>> >> >> >> >> >>> truck
>> >> >> >> >> >>> drivers because of the manner in which they drive on the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> open
>> >> >> >> >> >>> highway.  You
>> >> >> >> >> >>> are so correct.   My article may offend you....
>> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> In 1984, I was taking my mother to and from Birmingham 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> for
>> > her
>> >> >> > chemo
>> >> >> >> >> >>> treatments three times per week.  On one Wednesday
>> >> >> >> >> >>> afternoon,
>> > I
>> >> >> >> >> >>> was
>> >> >> >> >> >>> driving
>> >> >> >> >> >>> her red car home with her reclined in the riders side. I
> was
>> > on
>> >> >> >> >> >>> the
>> >> >> >> > left
>> >> >> >> >> >>> side of  highway I-59 and a "wonderful"truck driver flew
> by
>> > and
>> >> >> > took
>> >> >> >> > off
>> >> >> >> >> >>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> entire side of her car( my mother's side.) He swerved 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> over
>> > into
>> >> > my
>> >> >> >> > lane.
>> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> He never stopped and kept going at approx 90 miles per 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> hr.
>> > I'm
>> >> >> >> >> >>> sure
>> >> >> >> >> >>> to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> deliver his goods to a store! I had to chase him down and
>> > lucky
>> >> >> >> >> >>> for
>> >> >> >> >> >>> us
>> >> >> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >> >>> statetrooper was a few miles away.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> I finally got the truck to stop. The driver jumped 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> out(all
>> >> >> >> >> >>> 4'10"
>> >> >> >> >> >>> of
>> >> >> >> > him
>> >> >> >> >> >>> and
>> >> >> >> >> >>> proceeded to cuss me out and even hit me.I was pregnant 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> at
>> > the
>> >> >> > time)
>> >> >> >> >> >>> He was stoned out of his mind. At this point,  I was all
>> >> >> >> >> >>> over
>> >> > him
>> >> >> > and
>> >> >> >> >> >>> since
>> >> >> >> >> >>> my mother was only slightly injured she had to pull me 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> off
>> >> >> >> >> >>> of
>> >> > him.
>> >> >> > He
>> >> >> >> >> >>> denied
>> >> >> >> >> >>> the hit and run---cars were pulled over for witnesses and
>> >> >> >> >> >>> the
>> >> >> > trooper
>> >> >> >> >> >>> had
>> >> >> >> >> >>> arrived.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> Long story short---This precious trucker was stoned on
>> > Demerol,
>> >> >> >> > morphine
>> >> >> >> >> >>> and
>> >> >> >> >> >>> being serviced by his boyfriend(also stoned)when he 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> nearly
>> >> > killed
>> >> >> > us.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> Red
>> >> >> >> >> >>> paint was all over his wheels--he went to jail with many
>> >> >> >> >> >>> charges!!!
>> >> >> >> > This
>> >> >> >> >> >>> wasn't the first time for him either.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> How do these guys pass drug testing?  Is there drug
> testing?
>> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> Like you said.... It isn't whether or not he's at fault
> that
>> >> >> > matters.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> You
>> >> >> >> >> >>> may have run into him but the question is.. could he have
>> > done
>> >> >> >> > something
>> >> >> >> >> >>> to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> prevent it from happening?    You figure it out!
>> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> My parents live next door to a trucker ....This trucker
>> > steals
>> >> >> > goods,
>> >> >> >> >> >>> lets
>> >> >> >> >> >>> his 14yr drive his 18wheeler on long trips while he
> sleeps,
>> > and
>> >> > is
>> >> >> >> >> >>> addicted
>> >> >> >> >> >>> to crystal meth.
>> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> My daughter and I just went to Anniston yesterday and 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> were
>> > run
>> >> > off
>> >> >> >> >> >>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> road
>> >> >> >> >> >>> by a 18 wheeler and then the thing kept
>> >> >> >> >> >>> chasing us for miles. I called the police but the truck
> had
>> >> >> >> >> >>> left
>> >> >> >> >> >>> by
>> >> >> >> > that
>> >> >> >> >> >>> time. A report was taken.
>> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> As you can see, I have little respect for truckers. My
>> > dealings
>> >> >> > have
>> >> >> >> > not
>> >> >> >> >> >>> been good. Many are slaves to drugs to keep them going
> these
>> >> > long,
>> >> >> >> >> >>> grueling
>> >> >> >> >> >>> hours.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> My hats are off to the good ones.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> Susan
>> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> To: "Rebels 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2006 8:52 PM
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> Subject: [Rebels1972] Economic Slavery on the 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> Highways
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    I'd like to share some ideas about some of the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> people
>> >> > who
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> make
>> >> >> >> >> >>> this
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> country great.  They are often the most 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> unappreciated
>> >> > people
>> >> >> > in
>> >> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> world.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    We take them so much for granted despite all that
>> > they
>> >> >> >> >> >>> do.  Everyone
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> seems to think that the goods on the shelf at your
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> store
>> >> > just
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> appear
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> there
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> magically.  The materials to build your home, 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> school,
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> or
>> >> >> >> > workplace
>> >> >> >> >> >>> were
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> always there.  The fuel that makes your car run does
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not
>> >> > just
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> appear
>> >> >> >> >> >>> at
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> pump.  And there are many other material goods we
> rely
>> > on
>> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> maintain
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> standard of living.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    There are thousands of good Americans that
> transport
>> >> > these
>> >> >> >> >> >>> materials
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> us.  They aren't heralded and they get no fanfare.
> Man
>> >> > live
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> lifestyle of
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> separation from their families and work an 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> incredible
>> >> > number
>> >> >> > of
>> >> >> >> >> >>> hours.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> It
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> is their plight I wish to discuss.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    When the economy went sour at the end of 2001, I
>> > spoke
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with
>> >> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> recruiter
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for a national trucking company, she arranged for me
> to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> travel
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Memphis,
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Tennessee and attend a three week school that would
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> help
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> me
>> >> >> > get
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> >> >> >>> Class
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> A
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> commercial driver's license with all the required
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> endorsements
>> >> >> >> > and
>> >> >> >> >> >>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> training required for the company to hire me as an
> over
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> > road
>> >> >> >> >> >>> truck
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driver.  The cost of attending the truck school was
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> over
>> >> > five
>> >> >> >> >> >>> thousand
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> dollars and I was expected to be responsible for the
>> > cost
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> myself.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was not
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensated in any way for the time I spent in
> school.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    I went to truck driving school with a lot of
> people
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> from
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> different
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> parts
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of the country and different backgrounds.  After we
>> >> > completed
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
>> >> >> >> >> >>> first
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> week
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in school, we passed our written exams to get our
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> learner's
>> >> >> >> > permits
>> >> >> >> >> >>> and
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> medical certificates, which were required to operate
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> > big
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> eighteen
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> wheelers.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    The next week was range training.  We learned all
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> manner
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
>> >> >> >> >> >>> backing.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Backing was not like backing a car.  It required a
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> whole
>> >> >> >> > different
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> twist.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> To back a truck to the right one must turn the wheel
> to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> > left
>> >> >> >> >> >>> until
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> truck jacks to the right.  Then you turn the wheel 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> > the
>> >> >> > right
>> >> >> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> follow
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the trailer and keep it on the right path.  Even
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> backing
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
>> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >> >>> straight
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> line
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was difficult.  But we learned our required backing
>> > skills
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> during
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> second
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> week and went on for the road training.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    We drove all over western Tennessee, eastern
>> > Arkansas,
>> >> > and
>> >> >> >> >> >>> northern
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Mississippi.  To the end of the third week we
> completed
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> training
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> passed our road tests.  When we returned to school
> the
>> >> >> > following
>> >> >> >> >> >>> week,
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> we
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were taken to the DMV to get our Class A commercial
>> >> > driver's
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> licenses
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> late we were assigned to a driver who would train us
>> > while
>> >> > we
>> >> >> >> > were
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> actually
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> transporting goods all over the country.  We were
> paid
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> only
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> fifty
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> dollars
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> per day while we trained regardless of the miles
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driven.
>> >> >> > Since
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driver
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> often drives between four and five hundred miles per
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> shift,
>> >> >> > that
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> amounts to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> as little as ten cents per mile or less.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    These three weeks of driver training was done 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and a
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> legal requirement that you repay the company for the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> training.
>> >> >> >> > Of
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> course,
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they pro-rated the cost over two years and made the
>> >> > payments
>> >> >> > for
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> your
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> as
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> long as you worked for them.  But if you found it
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> necessary
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> leave,
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were on the hook for the pro-rated part of the money
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you
>> >> > owe.
>> >> >> >> > This
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> makes it
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> difficult to leave if you are unhappy with the
> working
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> situation.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    After I completed the training with my 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> instructor,
> I
>> >> > began
>> >> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> learn
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> things I never knew.  I knew that truck drivers were
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> typically
>> >> >> >> > away
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> from
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> home for months at a time.  I never knew that they
> are
>> > not
>> >> >> >> > covered
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> by
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> wage and hour laws (overtime?  What is that?). 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Truck
>> >> > drivers
>> >> >> >> > don't
>> >> >> >> >> >>> get
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> overtime even though they constantly work in excess
> of
>> >> > sixty
>> >> >> >> > hours
>> >> >> >> >> >>> per
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> week.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> They get paid for the miles they drive and (on
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> occasion)
>> >> > for
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> loading
>> >> >> >> >> >>> or
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> unloading a truck, not for the time they work.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Many responsibilities that truck drivers perform
> are
>> >> >> > without
>> >> >> >> > any
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation.  The Department of Transportation
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> requires
>> >> > that
>> >> >> >> > they
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> perform a
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> complete and thorough pre-trip safety inspection 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> each
>> > day,
>> >> >> > which
>> >> >> >> >> >>> takes
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> fifteen minutes of their time.  They receive no
>> >> > compensation
>> >> >> > for
>> >> >> >> >> >>> their
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> time
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to perform this.  When they weigh and balance a 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> truck
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> > make
>> >> >> >> > sure
>> >> >> >> >> >>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> load
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> is legal on the highway, they receive no 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation
>> > for
>> >> >> > that,
>> >> >> >> >> >>> either.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    When they hitch or unhitch a trailer, they 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> receive
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that task.  When a shipper or receiver makes them
> stand
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> around
>> >> >> >> > and
>> >> >> >> >> >>> wait
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> their load to be loaded or unloaded from a trailer,
> the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driver
>> >> >> >> >> >>> receives
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation for the time he is there idle while the
>> >> > shipper
>> >> >> > or
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> receiver
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> focuses on other things (unless he is paid for
> loading
>> > or
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> unloading,
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> which
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> isn't often).
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    And the driver is never guaranteed to get a
> shipment
>> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> move.  There
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were a number of times where I sat at a truck stop 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
> a
>> >> >> > strange
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> city
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with no
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> load.  Our company compensated us forty dollars per
> day
>> > if
>> >> >> > they
>> >> >> >> > had
>> >> >> >> >> >>> no
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> load
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for us.  Imagine that, only forty dollars for a
> single
>> > day
>> >> > of
>> >> >> >> > your
>> >> >> >> >> >>> life
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (and
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not all drivers even get that) away from your 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> family,
>> >> >> > community,
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> friends.  And the per mile rates for new drivers are
>> > very
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> low.
>> >> >> >> > One
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> asked to pick up a trailer, weigh it to make sure it
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
>> >> >> > legally
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> balanced,
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and transport it to the nearest company terminal for
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> reassignment to another driver.  For my several 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hours
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> work,
>> >> >> > I
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> received
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> approximately twelve dollars for my efforts.  It
>> > amounted
>> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> less
>> >> >> >> >> >>> than
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> minimum wage.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Truck drivers get no respect.  Once when I was at
> a
>> >> >> > truckstop
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> near
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Canadian border in Maine, a driver told me that his
> CB
>> >> > handle
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'Caucasian
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> scumbag'.  He said that he chose that handle because
> of
>> >> > what
>> >> >> > his
>> >> >> >> >> >>> father
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (also a truck driver) told him.  Truck driving is an
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> honorable
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> profession,
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> but you will never get any respect.  Sadly, I found
>> > myself
>> >> >> >> > agreeing
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> him.  A few examples follow.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Once I made a delivery at a warehouse.  After
>> > 'bumping
>> >> > the
>> >> >> >> > dock'
>> >> >> >> >> >>> (an
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> expression used that means you have parked the
> trailer
>> > at
>> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> loading
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> dock
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> so it can be loaded or unloaded), I found a door
> marked
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'driver's
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> entrance'.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> When I stepped inside the door, I found myself
> standing
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> inside
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
>> >> >> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> cage
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (subhuman treatment).
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    I once made a pickup at a major customer.  As my
>> > hours
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> almost
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> used
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> up when I made the pickup, I parked the truck 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> outside
>> > the
>> >> >> > front
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gate
>> >> >> >> >> >>> in
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> area where truckers were allowed to park and get the
>> >> > required
>> >> >> >> > time
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> sleeper before they were allowed to drive again.
> When
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
>> >> >> > walked
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> back
>> >> >> >> >> >>> to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gate requesting to use the restroom, they refused
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> saying
>> >> > that
>> >> >> >> >> >>> driver's
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> weren't allowed to use the restrooms in the 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> facility.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
>> >> > had
>> >> >> > to
>> >> >> >> > go
>> >> >> >> >> >>> and
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> relieve myself in the middle of an open field 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> because
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> there
>> >> >> > was
>> >> >> >> > no
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> other
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> place provided for the drivers.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    People often feel anger towards truck drivers
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> because
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
>> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> manner
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> which they drive on the open highways.  I did not
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> engage
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
>> >> >> > such
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driving and
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I did not approve of those who did.  But think of
> what
>> > it
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> cost
>> >> >> >> > me.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Slowing
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> down reduced the amount of money I made.  Remember
> that
>> >> > many
>> >> >> > of
>> >> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> lesser
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> experienced drivers are not all that well paid
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (contrary
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> stories
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> about how well truck drivers are paid).  When you 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> are
>> > paid
>> >> > by
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> mile
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> at
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> such a rate as twenty-seven cents a mile and only
>> > allowed
>> >> > to
>> >> >> >> > drive
>> >> >> >> >> >>> for
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> limited number of hours, making more money requires
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that
>> >> > you
>> >> >> >> > floor
>> >> >> >> >> >>> it.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> When
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a driver is caught in a traffic jam, he is sitting
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> there
>> >> >> > burning
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> his
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driving
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hours and getting no compensation for it.  He cannot
>> > drive
>> >> >> > extra
>> >> >> >> >> >>> hours
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> make up for it or the Department of Transportation
> will
>> >> > fine
>> >> >> > him
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> when
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> audit his driving logbook.  To that end, some 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> drivers
>> >> > falsify
>> >> >> >> > their
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> logbook
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to drive more miles.  This means that they are
> driving
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> over
>> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> number
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hours it is safe for a person's body to be alert
> enough
>> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> handle
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> eighty-thousand pound multi-vehicle truck and 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> creates
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
>> >> >> >> > additional
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hazard.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Truck drivers would like to see that changed, but
>> > it's
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> difficult.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'Over
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the road' drivers are away from home for months at a
>> > time.
>> >> >> >> > Because
>> >> >> >> >> >>> of
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they don't get to vote.  Politicians look at those
>> >> > statistics
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
>> >> >> >> >> >>> they
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> realize that spending time helping truck drivers 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> does
>> > not
>> >> >> > yield
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> them
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> additional votes.  This does not motivate the
>> > politicians
>> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> make
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> things any
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> easier for them.  Once, a driver told me that he had
>> > tried
>> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> get
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> absentee ballot.  He was asked where he'd be on
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> election
>> >> > day.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> He
>> >> >> >> >> >>> told
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> them
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> he had no way of knowing because he was sent to
>> > different
>> >> >> > places
>> >> >> >> >> >>> often
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> on
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> only a few hours notice.  Because he couldn't tell
> them
>> >> > where
>> >> >> >> > he'd
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> be
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> on
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> election day, they denied him an absentee ballot.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    As long as we continue to pay our over the road
>> > drivers
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'by
>> >> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> mile'
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> instead of by the hour and pay them for the things
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> truck
>> >> >> > drivers
>> >> >> >> > do
>> >> >> >> >> >>> for
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation every day, the way many truck drivers
>> > operate
>> >> >> > their
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> vehicles is
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not going to change.  There is significant
> legislative
>> >> > reform
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> needed
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> but no
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> political incentive to perform it.  And many of 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> these
>> > good
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> people
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> continue
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to suffer while making a living to support their
>> > families
>> >> >> > (with
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> whom
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> are able to spend very little time with).  The next
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> time
>> >> > you
>> >> >> >> > enjoy
>> >> >> >> >> >>> your
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> breakfast, buy nice new clothes at the store, fill 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> up
>> > your
>> >> >> > tank
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gasoline, or partake of any number of other 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> countless
>> >> > things,
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> should
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> remember that truck drivers brought those materials
> to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Imagine if the trucks stopped rolling for a week.
>> > We'd
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> experience
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gas
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> shortages, food shortages, and have to learn to do
>> > without
>> >> >> > many
>> >> >> >> >> >>> things.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    When a driver is involved in a traffic accident,
> it
>> >> > isn't
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> whether
>> >> >> >> >> >>> or
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> he is at fault that matters.  You may have run into
> him
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> but
>> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> question is
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> could he have done something to prevent it from
>> > happening?
>> >> >> > Even
>> >> >> >> > if
>> >> >> >> >> >>> he
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not at fault in the accident, it often is still
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> reported
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> on
>> >> >> > his
>> >> >> >> >> >>> driving
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> record as 'preventable' (which stacks against him
> when
>> > his
>> >> >> >> > driving
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> record is
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> reviewed for insurance or for possible employment
> with
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> >> > different
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> trucking
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> company).  Imagine that, you caused the accident but
>> > they
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hold
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> it
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> against
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the truck driver anyway.  He is responsible for
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> managing
>> >> >> > *your*
>> >> >> >> >> >>> driving
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> safety habits.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    These dramatically under appreciated people live 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> > lifestyle
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that
>> >> >> >> >> >>> I
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> don't understand how they continue to live day in 
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
>> > day
>> >> > out
>> >> >> >> > year
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> after
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> year.  Essentially they are slaves to our system and
> we
>> >> >> > continue
>> >> >> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> take
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> advantage of them paying many of them low wages and
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> working
>> >> >> > them
>> >> >> >> > at
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> schedule that would cause most of us to experience
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> complete
>> >> >> >> >> >>> exhaustion.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    My hat is off to them and I think about them from
>> > time
>> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >>> time.  God
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> bless our truck drivers.
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> _______________________________________________
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> >
>> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>> _______________________________________________
>> >> >> >> >> >>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >> >> >> >> >>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >> >>>
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> --
>> >> >> >> >> >> Rick Peek
>> >> >> >> >> >> Tech450 at gmail.com
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________
>> >> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >> >>
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________
>> >> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >> >>
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >
>> >> >>
>> >> >>
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >>
>> >>
>> >
>> >
>>
>>
>
> 




From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Thu Jun 15 20:49:40 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 20:49:40 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] truckers
References: <20060615093243.C98FDA51@resin06.mta.everyone.net>
	<00c901c6909c$63009bc0$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<010a01c690a9$b214d3e0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<016101c690ac$f61b3270$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<001201c690b1$fb029760$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<02f701c690b4$3ce87c60$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<001501c690ba$f09ff750$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<034501c690bc$c0bea9d0$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<003101c690bf$43093cf0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<03a401c690c1$1fb3e910$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<001e01c690dc$80f0fe00$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<004401c690e1$84cf7e70$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<006201c690e3$c80b0860$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
Message-ID: <005a01c690e7$22020280$6101a8c0@Lauren>

If I understand from the truckers I know, some are self employed other are 
not. Some chose to work long hours, others do not.
I don't understand the inability to vote. That certainly needs to be 
addressed with their congressmen or Senator esp. during an election year.

I didn't start this conversation talking about the fairness. I started 
talking about safety issues and that is my concern. Fairness and safety are 
related how?
They should be treated fairly as should everyone but they should ensure safe 
driving on the nation's infrastructure.

Back to the statistics---you may need to change the prescription on your 
glasses if you saw more safe drivers than crazy ones when you were driving. 
The highways are full of crazy ones! I think 2 classmates just posted an 
email to tell you that today.

Why did Elvis die of a drug overdose?  He was a drug crazed addict and had 
been for years. His career was over and had been for years.
Economically motivated?  No, his body was so bloated  from drug abuse and he 
had about 18 different class A narcotics in his system at his time of death. 
He didn't need the money-he needed the dope.

Again-----how's your summer? Are you teaching?


----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 8:25 PM
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers


> Susan,
>
>    And they do, too.  It's not fair for you to be protected by minimum 
> wage
> laws and them not be.  It's not fair for you to only have to work forty
> hours before you get overtime and them work sixty to seventy hours per 
> week
> and get *no* overtime.  It is not fair for you to be paid for even minute 
> of
> your time and them not be.  It should be both or neither.  They put in 
> more
> hours making the economy in this country grow than even us full timers. 
> And
> we wouldn't have the jobs or lifestyles we have if they didn't.  And they
> are not even guaranteed that the number of miles they drive will bring 
> them
> up to minimum wage by the time they divide their pay by the number of 
> actual
> hours worked.
>
>    If you call that fair, you need to think again.
>
>    Did you ever see an episode of Star Trek called the Cloud Minders?  It
> kind of illustrates the idea.
>
>    Where do you get *your* statistics Susan (since you ask me)?  I get 
> mine
> from the number of safe drivers I saw versus the number of crazy ones I 
> saw.
>
>    You're quite wrong about them not wanting it changed.  I've spoken with
> many a driver that wants to see that kind of reform.  But no one in
> Washington will listen because they are not able to vote.
>
>    I think you should hold off on criticizing them so much until you've
> experienced the lifestyle.  I used to have the same views you do.  Now 
> that
> I've walked (driven) thousands of miles in their shoes, I see it very
> differently.
>
>    No, I don't approve of that kind of driving.  But I do understand why 
> it
> is economically motivated.  And we could end that.
>
>    Why did Elvis die of drug overdose?  He kept taking drugs to keep going
> to further his career.  To work the kind of travel and show schedule he 
> did
> required incredible amounts of energy.  Hmmm.  Again, economically 
> motivated
> (not that I approve of it, but it is economically motivated).
>
>    Regards,
>
>
>
>
> Fred
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred atkinson"
> <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 9:09 PM
> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>
>
>> I'd love to know where you get your statistics Fred.... from your
>> bellybutton lint?
>> And why is it our fault?  We need to eat and sustain life.. We need
>> commodities to keep our lives afloat...
>> Heck fire,  I don't make those rules and regs that they don't abide by 
>> and
> I
>> don't shove the uppers down their throats and needles in their veins.
>>
>> Getting laws changed to help them?  Most of them don't want the laws
>> changed---they like it just the way it is. More money is to be made the
> way
>> it is right now.   Most truckers are a necessary evil.
>>
>> Now let's move on to another subject--this is getting boring Fred.  How's
>> your summer?
>>
>> Susan
>> ----- Original Message -----
>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 7:33 PM
>> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>>
>>
>> > Susan,
>> >
>> >    Not the majority.  But a lot of them.  And a lot of it is
> economically
>> > motivated.  And that is our own fault.
>> >
>> >    Regards,
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> > Fred
>> >
>> > ----- Original Message -----
>> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred atkinson"
>> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 5:17 PM
>> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >
>> >
>> >> Fred,
>> >> I don't want to prove any point.   I'm only stating facts. They 
>> >> are----
>> > the
>> >> majority of the 18 wheelers on the road are unsafe and have caused
>> > numerous
>> >> accidents.
>> >> The drivers are popping pills and not adhering to the rules and
>> > regulations.
>> >> How many lives are lost on the highways due to these rigs exceeding 
>> >> the
>> >> speed limit or changing lanes?  It's unbelievable.
>> >>
>> >> It's a no win situation all the way around.   You sound more like a
>> > trucker
>> >> than a teacher.
>> >> SM
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> ----- Original Message -----
>> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 4:04 PM
>> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> > Well, Susan,
>> >> >
>> >> >    I think you are proving my point.  Why do you think that most of
>> >> > them
>> >> > hype themselves up on drugs?  It's so they can keep going and get in
>> > more
>> >> > miles.  I wouldn't resort to speeding or loading myself up.  And I
>> >> > couldn't
>> >> > make a decent living.
>> >> >
>> >> >    By your own admission, that guy making all the money driving a
> truck
>> > is
>> >> > constantly breaking the law to do it.  How about the poor souls that
>> > don't
>> >> > break the law?  They don't make that much money.  And nobody cares
>> >> > about
>> >> > them.
>> >> >
>> >> >    One trucker was telling me about the incredibly outrageous number
> of
>> >> > hours he drove.  I told him that he'd get caught sooner or later.
> But
>> > he
>> >> > said he had to take the risk to support his family and for them he'd
> do
>> >> > it.
>> >> >
>> >> >    As I previously said, getting rid of 'by the mile' pay won't
>> > completely
>> >> > solve the problem.  But it'll go a long way towards making things
>> > better.
>> >> >
>> >> >    Regards,
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >> > Fred
>> >> >
>> >> > ----- Original Message -----
>> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 4:46 PM
>> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >> >> When one RN comes in and gives you the wrong medication and causes
> you
>> >> > great
>> >> >> harm---I think that you would be extremely cautious of the whole
> lot.
>> >> > That's
>> >> >> human nature.
>> >> >>
>> >> >> Fred, I'm not blaming the entire trucking industry for the problems
> of
>> >> >> several thousands. But if a poll was taken, I bet more people are
>> > having
>> >> >> severe problems with big rigs on the road today.  The truckers seem
> to
>> >> > think
>> >> >> that they own the road and we cars need to get out of their way.
>> >> >> I do get out of their way---way out!
>> >> >>
>> >> >> Drug abuse crosses all professional boundaries. Vehicular homicide
> is
>> >> >> another story.
>> >> >> Sm
>> >> >>
>> >> >>
>> >> >>
>> >> >> ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 3:33 PM
>> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >>
>> >> >>
>> >> >> > Yes,
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >    And should the everyone in the RN profession be blamed every
> time
>> > a
>> >> >> > single person violates that trust?
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >    Regards,
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> > Fred
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred atkinson"
>> >> >> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 3:45 PM
>> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> RN's, Doctors, Pharmacists, school teachers and professors, Lab
>> > techs,
>> >> >> >> lawyers. Addicts are everywhere.
>> >> >> >> As a RN, I have the State Board of Alabama Nursing regulating me
>> >> >> >> and
>> >> >> >> my
>> >> >> >> license. I am subject to drug testing at any time.
>> >> >> >> I would never willfully harm a patient.  Is a trucker willfully
>> >> >> >> harming
>> >> >> >> himself, the public and everything else as he craws into his rig
>> >> >> >> and
>> >> >> > speeds
>> >> >> >> along cross country to make a deadline----all to make more 
>> >> >> >> money?
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> Many things need to be changed but they never will because
>> >> >> >> basically
>> >> > John
>> >> >> > Q
>> >> >> >> Public doesn't want them changed. When you get right down to it,
>> >> >> >> the
>> >> >> >> truckers are happy with things just the way they are.  They 
>> >> >> >> don't
>> > more
>> >> >> >> and
>> >> >> >> more regulations on them. You know---you are part trucker!
>> >> >> >> Susan
>> >> >> >> ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 2:29 PM
>> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> > Susan,
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >    And there aren't some RNs who are using drugs to keep going
> on
>> >> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> > night
>> >> >> >> > shift?
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >    Didn't mean you shouldn't be proud of it.  Just meant that
>> > there
>> >> > are
>> >> >> >> > bad
>> >> >> >> > apples in your profession, too.  And that's nothing against 
>> >> >> >> > RNs
>> >> >> >> > as
>> > a
>> >> >> >> > whole.
>> >> >> >> > They are often underpaid as well.
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >    Regards,
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> > Fred
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> >> > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred atkinson"
>> >> >> >> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 2:53 PM
>> >> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> I'm all for supporting family and such.
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> Today's truckers need to incorporate this and have some 
>> >> >> >> >> safety
>> >> >> > concerns.
>> >> >> >> >> I spoke of my parent's neighbor---he rakes in approx
>> >> >> >> >> $3000.-$3500
>> >> > per
>> >> >> >> > week.
>> >> >> >> >> Pretty good for a trucker, huh?
>> >> >> >> >> Most of it goes for crystal meth.    His family travels with
> him
>> >> >> >> >> and
>> >> >> > when
>> >> >> >> >> they don't his 14yr old does.  Kid never goes to school.
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> The entire trucking industry needs re-vamping but then again
>> >> >> >> >> what
>> >> >> >> >> industry
>> >> >> >> >> doesn't?
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> Remember,   I'm RN -- totally 100% ( and proud of it)
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> Susan
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> >> >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 1:29 PM
>> >> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> > Susan,
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >    There is relief we could reach.
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >    Truckers don't think the world owes them a living.  Many
> of
>> >> > them
>> >> >> > are
>> >> >> >> >> > just trying to support their families and pay for their
> homes
>> > and
>> >> >> >> >> > pay
>> >> >> >> >> > their
>> >> >> >> >> > taxes.  They don't have the luxury of having their family
>> > around
>> >> >> >> >> > when
>> >> >> >> >> > their
>> >> >> >> >> > driving shift ends (the over the road ones, I'm refering
> to).
>> >> > It's
>> >> >> >> >> > a
>> >> >> >> > hard
>> >> >> >> >> > life.  I've lived it and I know.  I chose not to continue
>> > living
>> >> >> >> >> > that
>> >> >> >> > way.
>> >> >> >> >> > I was out about three thousand dollars for my driver
> training
>> >> >> >> >> > when
>> >> > I
>> >> >> >> > quit,
>> >> >> >> >> > too.  Fortunately, I was able to come up with it.  Others
>> > aren't
>> >> > so
>> >> >> >> > lucky.
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >    You're right about the work ethic.  Nonetheless, if we
>> >> >> >> >> > outlawed
>> >> >> >> > paying
>> >> >> >> >> > by the mile and paid them by the hour plus made them
> entitled
>> > to
>> >> > be
>> >> >> >> >> > paid
>> >> >> >> >> > for
>> >> >> >> >> > the things they are required to do that they are not
> currently
>> >> > paid
>> >> >> >> >> > for,
>> >> >> >> >> > it
>> >> >> >> >> > would change.  As with most solutions, it wouldn't solve
>> >> > everything.
>> >> >> >> > But
>> >> >> >> >> > it
>> >> >> >> >> > would be a great start.
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >    I doubt there's anyone here that would take a job and
> work
>> > for
>> >> >> > free.
>> >> >> >> >> > Truckers are required to for a lot of what they do.  They
>> >> >> >> >> > don't
>> >> > get
>> >> >> >> >> > reimbursed for the meals they get when they travel.  They
>> >> >> >> >> > don't
>> >> > get
>> >> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> > sleep
>> >> >> >> >> > at a hotel as we do when our employers send us traveling.
> It
>> >> > comes
>> >> >> > out
>> >> >> >> > of
>> >> >> >> >> > their pocket.
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >    Susan, there was no excuse for that trucker and I won't
>> >> >> >> >> > make
>> >> >> > excuses
>> >> >> >> >> > for
>> >> >> >> >> > him.  He belonged in jail and I hope that he is rotting
> there.
>> >> > But
>> >> >> >> >> > remember
>> >> >> >> >> > that in any profession, there are bad apples.  That's true
> all
>> >> >> >> >> > the
>> >> >> > way
>> >> >> >> >> > from
>> >> >> >> >> > the educators to the professionals, to the vocational, to
> the
>> >> >> > unskilled
>> >> >> >> >> > workers as well.
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >    When I finished my shift and sat in the truckers section
> in
>> >> >> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> > truck
>> >> >> >> >> > stop restaurants, I got a chance to get to know some of
> these
>> >> >> >> >> > people.
>> >> >> >> >> > I
>> >> >> >> >> > was
>> >> >> >> >> > amazed at the insights of their political views and the
>> >> >> >> >> > diverse
>> >> >> >> >> > backgrounds
>> >> >> >> >> > that many of them came from.   I didn't always agree with
>> >> >> >> >> > them,
>> >> > but
>> >> >> >> >> > I
>> >> >> >> >> > could
>> >> >> >> >> > see why they took that position and that many of them had
>> > really
>> >> >> >> >> > thought
>> >> >> >> >> > things through.  The caliber of some of those people
>> > overwhelmed
>> >> > me
>> >> >> > at
>> >> >> >> >> > times.
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >    Remember, I'm part trucker (and proud of it).
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >    Regards,
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> > Fred
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> >> >> > To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> >> >> >> > Cc: "fred atkinson" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >> >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 12:54 PM
>> >> >> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> This is probably true of most jobs. The newcomers have
> little
>> > or
>> >> > no
>> >> >> >> > work
>> >> >> >> >> >> ethics and could care less about anything but the "buck".
>> >> >> >> >> >> They
>> >> > give
>> >> >> >> > about
>> >> >> >> >> >> 10% or less on the job.
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> The older worker has respect for his job, others and
> America.
>> >> > Many
>> >> >> >> > give
>> >> >> >> >> >> 100% or more.
>> >> >> >> >> >>  The difference is amazing in the two workers.
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> The sad part is that the newcomers are overtaking the 
>> >> >> >> >> >> older
>> >> > workers
>> >> >> >> >> >> and
>> >> >> >> >> >> America is suffering.
>> >> >> >> >> >>  In my role as an administrator for 27 yrs, I hired and
>> >> > terminated
>> >> >> >> >> >> RN's
>> >> >> >> >> > and
>> >> >> >> >> >> others and I would see this over and over.
>> >> >> >> >> >> For some unknown reason, 1/2 of the population thinks that
>> >> > America
>> >> >> >> >> >> owes
>> >> >> >> >> > them
>> >> >> >> >> >> a living( truckers included)
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> The system is totally messed up and no relief in sight!
>> >> >> >> >> >> Susan
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> >> >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> >> >> >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> >> >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 11:32 AM
>> >> >> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >    Regretfully, that is true of the newcomers.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> >    They drug themselves up because they have to keep
> going.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> >    I never did any of that.  And I made diddly squat.
> That
>> >> >> >> >> >> > was
>> >> >> > one
>> >> >> >> > of
>> >> >> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> >> > reasons I gave it up.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> >    It's a system that rewards those who take dangerous
>> >> >> >> >> >> > risks
>> >> > and
>> >> >> >> >> > penalizes
>> >> >> >> >> >> > those who break the law.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> >    Yes, it's messed up.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> >    Regards,
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> >                                           Fred
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> > --- machen2081 at bellsouth.net wrote:
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> >> >> >> > To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>, "Sansom Class of 1972"
>> >> >> >> >> >> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >> >> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >> >> >> > Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:50:13 -0500
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> > Fred,
>> >> >> >> >> >> > The only way they can make acceptable money is to speed?
>> >> > Putting
>> >> >> >> >> > hundreds
>> >> >> >> >> >> > of thousands of lives at risk every day on the road
>> > including
>> >> >> > their
>> >> >> >> >> >> > own----for them to make some money?
>> >> >> >> >> >> > Yea they're speeding all right---with the crap that they
>> >> >> >> >> >> > are
>> >> >> >> > ingesting
>> >> >> >> >> > in
>> >> >> >> >> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >> >> > pill form.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> > I was a hemodialysis RN for 27 years and I can't begin 
>> >> >> >> >> >> > to
>> > tell
>> >> >> >> >> >> > you
>> >> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> >> > number of truckers that I have dialyzed over this period
> of
>> >> > time
>> >> >> >> >> >> > because
>> >> >> >> >> >> > of
>> >> >> >> >> >> > their long term drug abuse. This group was the hardest
>> >> >> >> >> >> > group
>> >> >> >> >> >> > to
>> >> >> > work
>> >> >> >> >> > with
>> >> >> >> >> >> > due to their non-compliance, disrespect for authority
>> > figures
>> >> > and
>> >> >> >> >> >> > continued
>> >> >> >> >> >> > drug abuse.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> > No Fred, I wouldn't get behind a wheel and speed just to
>> >> > increase
>> >> >> > my
>> >> >> >> >> >> > earnings.. I'm just not made that way.  I have respect
> for
>> >> > human
>> >> >> >> > life.
>> >> >> >> >> >> > Period.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> > Transport the goods via railroad. Utilize as few trucks
> as
>> >> >> > possible.
>> >> >> >> >> >> > As
>> >> >> >> >> >> > for
>> >> >> >> >> >> > me, I'm sick of their attitudes---they don't own the
> roads!
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> > You're right about one thing---one bad apple spoils the
>> > whole
>> >> >> >> >> > bunch---this
>> >> >> >> >> >> > goes for everything in life
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> > Susan
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> >> >> >> > From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> >> >> >> >> > To: <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >> >> >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 10:26 AM
>> >> >> >> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> Yes, Susan,
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>     There is drug testing before they can even drive.
> And
>> >> > they
>> >> >> > are
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> subject to surprised, unannounced drug testing, too.
> I've
>> >> > been
>> >> >> >> > tested
>> >> >> >> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> number of times, myself, all negative.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>     Well, you'd probably speed too if you were
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> economically
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> enslaved
>> >> >> >> >> > and
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> the only way to make acceptable money was to speed.
> Don't
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> you
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> think
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> we
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> could change the law to fix that?
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>     I've been around the truck drivers.  Mostly, they
> are
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> good
>> >> >> >> > people
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> trying to make a living.  And remember, it only takes
> one
>> > or
>> >> > two
>> >> >> >> >> > negative
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> folks in a stereotyped group (ah, that word) to make a
> lot
>> > of
>> >> >> > good
>> >> >> >> >> > people
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> look bad.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>     We live lifestyles that we'd never live if these
> folks
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> didn't
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> do
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> > this
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> work for us.  Remember that.  When we pass laws
>> > guaranteeing
>> >> >> > wages,
>> >> >> >> > we
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> exempt them from the same laws we make to protect
>> > ourselves.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>     Regards,
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>                                             Fred
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> --- tech450 at gmail.com wrote:
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> From: "Rick Peek" <tech450 at gmail.com>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> To: "Sansom Class of 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:13:55 -0500
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> Hey Susan,
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> My sentiments on truckers are with you also. Driving
> from
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> Gadsden
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> B'ham
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> on the interstate for 8 years, all my dealings with
>> > truckers
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> have
>> >> >> >> > been
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> negative also. I have been run off the road several
> times
>> >> > myself
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> and
>> >> >> >> >> > have
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> seen them cause numerous accidents, some of which I
> barely
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> missed
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> being
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> in
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> myself. I have hit debris many times that was left in
> the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> road
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> by
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> truckers
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> and almost made me wreck and once hit some scrap metal
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> that
>> >> > fell
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> off
>> >> >> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> truck
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> and shredded my new tires and almost made me wreck. I
> have
>> >> > also
>> >> >> > had
>> >> >> >> > my
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> winsheild cracked and paint knocked off by flying rocks
>> > that
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> fell
>> >> >> >> > off
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> trucks. I'm on your side.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> Rick P.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> On 6/15/06, machen2081 at bellsouth.net
>> >> > <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
>> >> >> >> > wrote:
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Ah Fred,
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> I read and re-read your article with great interest. 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> I
>> >> > wonder
>> >> >> > why
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> you
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> would put so much time and energy into such an 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> article.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> You see truck drivers really strike a chord with me 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> and
>> > I'll
>> >> >> > tell
>> >> >> >> > you
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> why.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> I'm sure there are many great truck drivers on the 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> road
>> > with
>> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> safe
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> driving
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> record. I haven't met many. You stated that people 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> feel
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> anger
>> >> >> >> > towards
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> truck
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> drivers because of the manner in which they drive on
> the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> open
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> highway.  You
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> are so correct.   My article may offend you....
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> In 1984, I was taking my mother to and from Birmingham
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> for
>> >> > her
>> >> >> >> > chemo
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> treatments three times per week.  On one Wednesday
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> afternoon,
>> >> > I
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> was
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> driving
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> her red car home with her reclined in the riders side.
> I
>> > was
>> >> > on
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the
>> >> >> >> >> > left
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> side of  highway I-59 and a "wonderful"truck driver
> flew
>> > by
>> >> > and
>> >> >> >> > took
>> >> >> >> >> > off
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> entire side of her car( my mother's side.) He swerved
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> over
>> >> > into
>> >> >> > my
>> >> >> >> >> > lane.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> He never stopped and kept going at approx 90 miles per
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> hr.
>> >> > I'm
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> sure
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> deliver his goods to a store! I had to chase him down
> and
>> >> > lucky
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> for
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> us
>> >> >> >> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> statetrooper was a few miles away.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> I finally got the truck to stop. The driver jumped
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> out(all
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> 4'10"
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> of
>> >> >> >> >> > him
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> and
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> proceeded to cuss me out and even hit me.I was 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> pregnant
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> at
>> >> > the
>> >> >> >> > time)
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> He was stoned out of his mind. At this point,  I was
> all
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> over
>> >> >> > him
>> >> >> >> > and
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> since
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> my mother was only slightly injured she had to pull me
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> off
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> of
>> >> >> > him.
>> >> >> >> > He
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> denied
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the hit and run---cars were pulled over for witnesses
> and
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the
>> >> >> >> > trooper
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> had
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> arrived.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Long story short---This precious trucker was stoned on
>> >> > Demerol,
>> >> >> >> >> > morphine
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> and
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> being serviced by his boyfriend(also stoned)when he
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> nearly
>> >> >> > killed
>> >> >> >> > us.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Red
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> paint was all over his wheels--he went to jail with
> many
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> charges!!!
>> >> >> >> >> > This
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> wasn't the first time for him either.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> How do these guys pass drug testing?  Is there drug
>> > testing?
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Like you said.... It isn't whether or not he's at 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> fault
>> > that
>> >> >> >> > matters.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> You
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> may have run into him but the question is.. could he
> have
>> >> > done
>> >> >> >> >> > something
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> prevent it from happening?    You figure it out!
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> My parents live next door to a trucker ....This 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> trucker
>> >> > steals
>> >> >> >> > goods,
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> lets
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> his 14yr drive his 18wheeler on long trips while he
>> > sleeps,
>> >> > and
>> >> >> > is
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> addicted
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> to crystal meth.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> My daughter and I just went to Anniston yesterday and
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> were
>> >> > run
>> >> >> > off
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> road
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> by a 18 wheeler and then the thing kept
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> chasing us for miles. I called the police but the 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> truck
>> > had
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> left
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> by
>> >> >> >> >> > that
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> time. A report was taken.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> As you can see, I have little respect for truckers. My
>> >> > dealings
>> >> >> >> > have
>> >> >> >> >> > not
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> been good. Many are slaves to drugs to keep them going
>> > these
>> >> >> > long,
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> grueling
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> hours.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> My hats are off to the good ones.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Susan
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> ----- Original Message -----
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> To: "Rebels 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2006 8:52 PM
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> Subject: [Rebels1972] Economic Slavery on the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> Highways
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    I'd like to share some ideas about some of the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> people
>> >> >> > who
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> make
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> this
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> country great.  They are often the most
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> unappreciated
>> >> >> > people
>> >> >> >> > in
>> >> >> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> world.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    We take them so much for granted despite all
> that
>> >> > they
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> do.  Everyone
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> seems to think that the goods on the shelf at 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> your
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> store
>> >> >> > just
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> appear
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> there
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> magically.  The materials to build your home,
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> school,
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> or
>> >> >> >> >> > workplace
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> were
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> always there.  The fuel that makes your car run
> does
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not
>> >> >> > just
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> appear
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> at
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> pump.  And there are many other material goods we
>> > rely
>> >> > on
>> >> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> maintain
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> standard of living.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    There are thousands of good Americans that
>> > transport
>> >> >> > these
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> materials
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> us.  They aren't heralded and they get no 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> fanfare.
>> > Man
>> >> >> > live
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> lifestyle of
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> separation from their families and work an
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> incredible
>> >> >> > number
>> >> >> >> > of
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> hours.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> It
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> is their plight I wish to discuss.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    When the economy went sour at the end of 2001,
> I
>> >> > spoke
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with
>> >> >> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> recruiter
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for a national trucking company, she arranged for
> me
>> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> travel
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Memphis,
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Tennessee and attend a three week school that
> would
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> help
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> me
>> >> >> >> > get
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Class
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> A
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> commercial driver's license with all the required
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> endorsements
>> >> >> >> >> > and
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> training required for the company to hire me as 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
>> > over
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> > road
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> truck
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driver.  The cost of attending the truck school
> was
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> over
>> >> >> > five
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> thousand
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> dollars and I was expected to be responsible for
> the
>> >> > cost
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> myself.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was not
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensated in any way for the time I spent in
>> > school.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    I went to truck driving school with a lot of
>> > people
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> from
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> different
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> parts
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of the country and different backgrounds.  After
> we
>> >> >> > completed
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> first
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> week
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in school, we passed our written exams to get our
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> learner's
>> >> >> >> >> > permits
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> and
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> medical certificates, which were required to
> operate
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> > big
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> eighteen
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> wheelers.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    The next week was range training.  We learned
> all
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> manner
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> backing.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Backing was not like backing a car.  It required 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> whole
>> >> >> >> >> > different
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> twist.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> To back a truck to the right one must turn the
> wheel
>> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> > left
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> until
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> truck jacks to the right.  Then you turn the 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> wheel
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> > the
>> >> >> >> > right
>> >> >> >> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> follow
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the trailer and keep it on the right path.  Even
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> backing
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
>> >> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> straight
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> line
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was difficult.  But we learned our required
> backing
>> >> > skills
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> during
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> second
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> week and went on for the road training.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    We drove all over western Tennessee, eastern
>> >> > Arkansas,
>> >> >> > and
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> northern
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Mississippi.  To the end of the third week we
>> > completed
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> training
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> passed our road tests.  When we returned to 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> school
>> > the
>> >> >> >> > following
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> week,
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> we
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were taken to the DMV to get our Class A
> commercial
>> >> >> > driver's
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> licenses
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> late we were assigned to a driver who would train
> us
>> >> > while
>> >> >> > we
>> >> >> >> >> > were
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> actually
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> transporting goods all over the country.  We were
>> > paid
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> only
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> fifty
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> dollars
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> per day while we trained regardless of the miles
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driven.
>> >> >> >> > Since
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driver
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> often drives between four and five hundred miles
> per
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> shift,
>> >> >> >> > that
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> amounts to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> as little as ten cents per mile or less.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    These three weeks of driver training was done
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and a
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> legal requirement that you repay the company for
> the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> training.
>> >> >> >> >> > Of
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> course,
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they pro-rated the cost over two years and made
> the
>> >> >> > payments
>> >> >> >> > for
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> your
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> as
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> long as you worked for them.  But if you found it
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> necessary
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> leave,
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were on the hook for the pro-rated part of the
> money
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you
>> >> >> > owe.
>> >> >> >> >> > This
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> makes it
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> difficult to leave if you are unhappy with the
>> > working
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> situation.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    After I completed the training with my
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> instructor,
>> > I
>> >> >> > began
>> >> >> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> learn
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> things I never knew.  I knew that truck drivers
> were
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> typically
>> >> >> >> >> > away
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> from
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> home for months at a time.  I never knew that 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they
>> > are
>> >> > not
>> >> >> >> >> > covered
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> by
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> wage and hour laws (overtime?  What is that?).
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Truck
>> >> >> > drivers
>> >> >> >> >> > don't
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> get
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> overtime even though they constantly work in
> excess
>> > of
>> >> >> > sixty
>> >> >> >> >> > hours
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> per
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> week.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> They get paid for the miles they drive and (on
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> occasion)
>> >> >> > for
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> loading
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> or
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> unloading a truck, not for the time they work.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Many responsibilities that truck drivers
> perform
>> > are
>> >> >> >> > without
>> >> >> >> >> > any
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation.  The Department of Transportation
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> requires
>> >> >> > that
>> >> >> >> >> > they
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> perform a
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> complete and thorough pre-trip safety inspection
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> each
>> >> > day,
>> >> >> >> > which
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> takes
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> fifteen minutes of their time.  They receive no
>> >> >> > compensation
>> >> >> >> > for
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> their
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> time
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to perform this.  When they weigh and balance a
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> truck
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> >> > make
>> >> >> >> >> > sure
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> load
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> is legal on the highway, they receive no
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation
>> >> > for
>> >> >> >> > that,
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> either.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    When they hitch or unhitch a trailer, they
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> receive
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that task.  When a shipper or receiver makes them
>> > stand
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> around
>> >> >> >> >> > and
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> wait
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> their load to be loaded or unloaded from a
> trailer,
>> > the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driver
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> receives
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation for the time he is there idle while
> the
>> >> >> > shipper
>> >> >> >> > or
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> receiver
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> focuses on other things (unless he is paid for
>> > loading
>> >> > or
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> unloading,
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> which
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> isn't often).
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    And the driver is never guaranteed to get a
>> > shipment
>> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> move.  There
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were a number of times where I sat at a truck 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> stop
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
>> > a
>> >> >> >> > strange
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> city
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with no
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> load.  Our company compensated us forty dollars
> per
>> > day
>> >> > if
>> >> >> >> > they
>> >> >> >> >> > had
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> no
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> load
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for us.  Imagine that, only forty dollars for a
>> > single
>> >> > day
>> >> >> > of
>> >> >> >> >> > your
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> life
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (and
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not all drivers even get that) away from your
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> family,
>> >> >> >> > community,
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> friends.  And the per mile rates for new drivers
> are
>> >> > very
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> low.
>> >> >> >> >> > One
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> asked to pick up a trailer, weigh it to make sure
> it
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
>> >> >> >> > legally
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> balanced,
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and transport it to the nearest company terminal
> for
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> reassignment to another driver.  For my several
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hours
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> work,
>> >> >> >> > I
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> received
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> approximately twelve dollars for my efforts.  It
>> >> > amounted
>> >> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> less
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> than
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> minimum wage.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Truck drivers get no respect.  Once when I was
> at
>> > a
>> >> >> >> > truckstop
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> near
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Canadian border in Maine, a driver told me that
> his
>> > CB
>> >> >> > handle
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'Caucasian
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> scumbag'.  He said that he chose that handle
> because
>> > of
>> >> >> > what
>> >> >> >> > his
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> father
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (also a truck driver) told him.  Truck driving is
> an
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> honorable
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> profession,
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> but you will never get any respect.  Sadly, I
> found
>> >> > myself
>> >> >> >> >> > agreeing
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> him.  A few examples follow.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Once I made a delivery at a warehouse.  After
>> >> > 'bumping
>> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> > dock'
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> (an
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> expression used that means you have parked the
>> > trailer
>> >> > at
>> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> loading
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> dock
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> so it can be loaded or unloaded), I found a door
>> > marked
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'driver's
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> entrance'.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> When I stepped inside the door, I found myself
>> > standing
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> inside
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
>> >> >> >> >> > a
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> cage
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (subhuman treatment).
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    I once made a pickup at a major customer.  As
> my
>> >> > hours
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> almost
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> used
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> up when I made the pickup, I parked the truck
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> outside
>> >> > the
>> >> >> >> > front
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gate
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> in
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> area where truckers were allowed to park and get
> the
>> >> >> > required
>> >> >> >> >> > time
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> sleeper before they were allowed to drive again.
>> > When
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
>> >> >> >> > walked
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> back
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gate requesting to use the restroom, they refused
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> saying
>> >> >> > that
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> driver's
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> weren't allowed to use the restrooms in the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> facility.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
>> >> >> > had
>> >> >> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> > go
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> and
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> relieve myself in the middle of an open field
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> because
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> there
>> >> >> >> > was
>> >> >> >> >> > no
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> other
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> place provided for the drivers.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    People often feel anger towards truck drivers
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> because
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
>> >> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> manner
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> which they drive on the open highways.  I did not
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> engage
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
>> >> >> >> > such
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driving and
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I did not approve of those who did.  But think of
>> > what
>> >> > it
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> cost
>> >> >> >> >> > me.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Slowing
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> down reduced the amount of money I made. 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Remember
>> > that
>> >> >> > many
>> >> >> >> > of
>> >> >> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> lesser
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> experienced drivers are not all that well paid
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (contrary
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> stories
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> about how well truck drivers are paid).  When you
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> are
>> >> > paid
>> >> >> > by
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> mile
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> at
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> such a rate as twenty-seven cents a mile and only
>> >> > allowed
>> >> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> > drive
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> for
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> limited number of hours, making more money
> requires
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that
>> >> >> > you
>> >> >> >> >> > floor
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> it.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> When
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a driver is caught in a traffic jam, he is 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> sitting
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> there
>> >> >> >> > burning
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> his
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driving
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hours and getting no compensation for it.  He
> cannot
>> >> > drive
>> >> >> >> > extra
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> hours
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> make up for it or the Department of 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Transportation
>> > will
>> >> >> > fine
>> >> >> >> > him
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> when
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> audit his driving logbook.  To that end, some
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> drivers
>> >> >> > falsify
>> >> >> >> >> > their
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> logbook
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to drive more miles.  This means that they are
>> > driving
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> over
>> >> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> number
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hours it is safe for a person's body to be alert
>> > enough
>> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> handle
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> eighty-thousand pound multi-vehicle truck and
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> creates
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
>> >> >> >> >> > additional
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hazard.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Truck drivers would like to see that changed,
> but
>> >> > it's
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> difficult.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'Over
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the road' drivers are away from home for months 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> at
> a
>> >> > time.
>> >> >> >> >> > Because
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> of
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they don't get to vote.  Politicians look at 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> those
>> >> >> > statistics
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> they
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> realize that spending time helping truck drivers
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> does
>> >> > not
>> >> >> >> > yield
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> them
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> additional votes.  This does not motivate the
>> >> > politicians
>> >> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> make
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> things any
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> easier for them.  Once, a driver told me that he
> had
>> >> > tried
>> >> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> get
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> absentee ballot.  He was asked where he'd be on
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> election
>> >> >> > day.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> He
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> told
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> them
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> he had no way of knowing because he was sent to
>> >> > different
>> >> >> >> > places
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> often
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> on
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> only a few hours notice.  Because he couldn't 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> tell
>> > them
>> >> >> > where
>> >> >> >> >> > he'd
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> be
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> on
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> election day, they denied him an absentee ballot.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    As long as we continue to pay our over the 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> road
>> >> > drivers
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'by
>> >> >> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> mile'
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> instead of by the hour and pay them for the 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> things
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> truck
>> >> >> >> > drivers
>> >> >> >> >> > do
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> for
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation every day, the way many truck 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> drivers
>> >> > operate
>> >> >> >> > their
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> vehicles is
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not going to change.  There is significant
>> > legislative
>> >> >> > reform
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> needed
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> but no
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> political incentive to perform it.  And many of
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> these
>> >> > good
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> people
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> continue
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to suffer while making a living to support their
>> >> > families
>> >> >> >> > (with
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> whom
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> are able to spend very little time with).  The
> next
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> time
>> >> >> > you
>> >> >> >> >> > enjoy
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> your
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> breakfast, buy nice new clothes at the store, 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> fill
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> up
>> >> > your
>> >> >> >> > tank
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gasoline, or partake of any number of other
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> countless
>> >> >> > things,
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> should
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> remember that truck drivers brought those
> materials
>> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Imagine if the trucks stopped rolling for a
> week.
>> >> > We'd
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> experience
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gas
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> shortages, food shortages, and have to learn to 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> do
>> >> > without
>> >> >> >> > many
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> things.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    When a driver is involved in a traffic
> accident,
>> > it
>> >> >> > isn't
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> whether
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> or
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> he is at fault that matters.  You may have run
> into
>> > him
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> but
>> >> >> >> > the
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> question is
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> could he have done something to prevent it from
>> >> > happening?
>> >> >> >> > Even
>> >> >> >> >> > if
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> he
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not at fault in the accident, it often is still
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> reported
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> on
>> >> >> >> > his
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> driving
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> record as 'preventable' (which stacks against him
>> > when
>> >> > his
>> >> >> >> >> > driving
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> record is
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> reviewed for insurance or for possible employment
>> > with
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> >> >> > different
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> trucking
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> company).  Imagine that, you caused the accident
> but
>> >> > they
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hold
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> it
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> against
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the truck driver anyway.  He is responsible for
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> managing
>> >> >> >> > *your*
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> driving
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> safety habits.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    These dramatically under appreciated people
> live
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> >> > lifestyle
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> I
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> don't understand how they continue to live day in
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
>> >> > day
>> >> >> > out
>> >> >> >> >> > year
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> after
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> year.  Essentially they are slaves to our system
> and
>> > we
>> >> >> >> > continue
>> >> >> >> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> take
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> advantage of them paying many of them low wages
> and
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> working
>> >> >> >> > them
>> >> >> >> >> > at
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> schedule that would cause most of us to 
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> experience
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> complete
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> exhaustion.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    My hat is off to them and I think about them
> from
>> >> > time
>> >> >> > to
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> time.  God
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> bless our truck drivers.
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> _______________________________________________
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> _______________________________________________
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> --
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> Rick Peek
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> Tech450 at gmail.com
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >> >> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >> >> >>
>> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >> >
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >>
>> >> >> >
>> >> >> >
>> >> >>
>> >> >>
>> >> >
>> >> >
>> >>
>> >>
>> >
>> >
>>
>>
>
> 




From bmorgan7459 at charter.net  Thu Jun 15 23:22:38 2006
From: bmorgan7459 at charter.net (bmorgan7459 at charter.net)
Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 21:22:38 -0700
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
Message-ID: <908152144.1150431758102.JavaMail.root@fepweb05>

FRED AND SUSAN

HAHAHAHAH LOL HEEHEEHEE
THAT WAS SOME OF THE BEST BANTER I?VE HEARD-READ IN A LONG TIME . I MUST ADMIT THAT WAS A HOOT.  MY SIDES HURT FROM LAUGHING.  I WISH I COULD HAVE SEEN YOU BEAT THE HELL OUT OF THAT LITTLE JERK OF A POOR EXCUSE OF A HUMAN BE-SOMETHING.
NOT WANTING TO INTERFERE WITH YOUR OPINIONS I WOULD LIKE TO INJECT ONE IDEA.  THEY DON T HAVE TO DO IT.  IF YOU ARE NOT SATISFIED WITH THE PAY YOU RECEIVE,  WALK AWAY.  DON T BLAME IT ON THE GOVERNMENT.  THIS IS A FREE COUNTRY.   I'M SURE YOU WERE TOLD THE WAGES BEFORE YOU STARTED, IF NOT WHOSE FAULT IS THAT.  I DON T THINK WE NEED ANYMORE LEGISLATION TELLING  US WHAT TO DO.  WE ALREADY LEGISLATE ENOUGH MORALITY; PRETTY SOON WE WONT NEED TO MAKE DECISIONS FOR OURSELVES IT WILL BE A LAW.
SORRY TO INTERRUPT.  DIDN'T MEAN TO GET ON MY SOAPBOX.
OH YEAH FRED,  LOOK UP JIMMY HOFFA AND THE TEAMSTERS.  
SORRY AGAIN.

PAT








---- machen2081 at bellsouth.net wrote: 
> If I understand from the truckers I know, some are self employed other are 
> not. Some chose to work long hours, others do not.
> I don't understand the inability to vote. That certainly needs to be 
> addressed with their congressmen or Senator esp. during an election year.
> 
> I didn't start this conversation talking about the fairness. I started 
> talking about safety issues and that is my concern. Fairness and safety are 
> related how?
> They should be treated fairly as should everyone but they should ensure safe 
> driving on the nation's infrastructure.
> 
> Back to the statistics---you may need to change the prescription on your 
> glasses if you saw more safe drivers than crazy ones when you were driving. 
> The highways are full of crazy ones! I think 2 classmates just posted an 
> email to tell you that today.
> 
> Why did Elvis die of a drug overdose?  He was a drug crazed addict and had 
> been for years. His career was over and had been for years.
> Economically motivated?  No, his body was so bloated  from drug abuse and he 
> had about 18 different class A narcotics in his system at his time of death. 
> He didn't need the money-he needed the dope.
> 
> Again-----how's your summer? Are you teaching?
> 
> 
> ----- Original Message ----- 
> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 8:25 PM
> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> 
> 
> > Susan,
> >
> >    And they do, too.  It's not fair for you to be protected by minimum 
> > wage
> > laws and them not be.  It's not fair for you to only have to work forty
> > hours before you get overtime and them work sixty to seventy hours per 
> > week
> > and get *no* overtime.  It is not fair for you to be paid for even minute 
> > of
> > your time and them not be.  It should be both or neither.  They put in 
> > more
> > hours making the economy in this country grow than even us full timers. 
> > And
> > we wouldn't have the jobs or lifestyles we have if they didn't.  And they
> > are not even guaranteed that the number of miles they drive will bring 
> > them
> > up to minimum wage by the time they divide their pay by the number of 
> > actual
> > hours worked.
> >
> >    If you call that fair, you need to think again.
> >
> >    Did you ever see an episode of Star Trek called the Cloud Minders?  It
> > kind of illustrates the idea.
> >
> >    Where do you get *your* statistics Susan (since you ask me)?  I get 
> > mine
> > from the number of safe drivers I saw versus the number of crazy ones I 
> > saw.
> >
> >    You're quite wrong about them not wanting it changed.  I've spoken with
> > many a driver that wants to see that kind of reform.  But no one in
> > Washington will listen because they are not able to vote.
> >
> >    I think you should hold off on criticizing them so much until you've
> > experienced the lifestyle.  I used to have the same views you do.  Now 
> > that
> > I've walked (driven) thousands of miles in their shoes, I see it very
> > differently.
> >
> >    No, I don't approve of that kind of driving.  But I do understand why 
> > it
> > is economically motivated.  And we could end that.
> >
> >    Why did Elvis die of drug overdose?  He kept taking drugs to keep going
> > to further his career.  To work the kind of travel and show schedule he 
> > did
> > required incredible amounts of energy.  Hmmm.  Again, economically 
> > motivated
> > (not that I approve of it, but it is economically motivated).
> >
> >    Regards,
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > Fred
> >
> > ----- Original Message -----
> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred atkinson"
> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 9:09 PM
> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> >
> >
> >> I'd love to know where you get your statistics Fred.... from your
> >> bellybutton lint?
> >> And why is it our fault?  We need to eat and sustain life.. We need
> >> commodities to keep our lives afloat...
> >> Heck fire,  I don't make those rules and regs that they don't abide by 
> >> and
> > I
> >> don't shove the uppers down their throats and needles in their veins.
> >>
> >> Getting laws changed to help them?  Most of them don't want the laws
> >> changed---they like it just the way it is. More money is to be made the
> > way
> >> it is right now.   Most truckers are a necessary evil.
> >>
> >> Now let's move on to another subject--this is getting boring Fred.  How's
> >> your summer?
> >>
> >> Susan
> >> ----- Original Message -----
> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 7:33 PM
> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> >>
> >>
> >> > Susan,
> >> >
> >> >    Not the majority.  But a lot of them.  And a lot of it is
> > economically
> >> > motivated.  And that is our own fault.
> >> >
> >> >    Regards,
> >> >
> >> >
> >> >
> >> >
> >> > Fred
> >> >
> >> > ----- Original Message -----
> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> >> > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred atkinson"
> >> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 5:17 PM
> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> >> >
> >> >
> >> >> Fred,
> >> >> I don't want to prove any point.   I'm only stating facts. They 
> >> >> are----
> >> > the
> >> >> majority of the 18 wheelers on the road are unsafe and have caused
> >> > numerous
> >> >> accidents.
> >> >> The drivers are popping pills and not adhering to the rules and
> >> > regulations.
> >> >> How many lives are lost on the highways due to these rigs exceeding 
> >> >> the
> >> >> speed limit or changing lanes?  It's unbelievable.
> >> >>
> >> >> It's a no win situation all the way around.   You sound more like a
> >> > trucker
> >> >> than a teacher.
> >> >> SM
> >> >>
> >> >>
> >> >> ----- Original Message -----
> >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 4:04 PM
> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> >> >>
> >> >>
> >> >> > Well, Susan,
> >> >> >
> >> >> >    I think you are proving my point.  Why do you think that most of
> >> >> > them
> >> >> > hype themselves up on drugs?  It's so they can keep going and get in
> >> > more
> >> >> > miles.  I wouldn't resort to speeding or loading myself up.  And I
> >> >> > couldn't
> >> >> > make a decent living.
> >> >> >
> >> >> >    By your own admission, that guy making all the money driving a
> > truck
> >> > is
> >> >> > constantly breaking the law to do it.  How about the poor souls that
> >> > don't
> >> >> > break the law?  They don't make that much money.  And nobody cares
> >> >> > about
> >> >> > them.
> >> >> >
> >> >> >    One trucker was telling me about the incredibly outrageous number
> > of
> >> >> > hours he drove.  I told him that he'd get caught sooner or later.
> > But
> >> > he
> >> >> > said he had to take the risk to support his family and for them he'd
> > do
> >> >> > it.
> >> >> >
> >> >> >    As I previously said, getting rid of 'by the mile' pay won't
> >> > completely
> >> >> > solve the problem.  But it'll go a long way towards making things
> >> > better.
> >> >> >
> >> >> >    Regards,
> >> >> >
> >> >> >
> >> >> >
> >> >> > Fred
> >> >> >
> >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
> >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> >> >> > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 4:46 PM
> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> >> >> >
> >> >> >
> >> >> >> When one RN comes in and gives you the wrong medication and causes
> > you
> >> >> > great
> >> >> >> harm---I think that you would be extremely cautious of the whole
> > lot.
> >> >> > That's
> >> >> >> human nature.
> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> Fred, I'm not blaming the entire trucking industry for the problems
> > of
> >> >> >> several thousands. But if a poll was taken, I bet more people are
> >> > having
> >> >> >> severe problems with big rigs on the road today.  The truckers seem
> > to
> >> >> > think
> >> >> >> that they own the road and we cars need to get out of their way.
> >> >> >> I do get out of their way---way out!
> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> Drug abuse crosses all professional boundaries. Vehicular homicide
> > is
> >> >> >> another story.
> >> >> >> Sm
> >> >> >>
> >> >> >>
> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> ----- Original Message -----
> >> >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> >> >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> >> >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 3:33 PM
> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> >> >> >>
> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> > Yes,
> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >    And should the everyone in the RN profession be blamed every
> > time
> >> > a
> >> >> >> > single person violates that trust?
> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >    Regards,
> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> > Fred
> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
> >> >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> >> >> >> > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred atkinson"
> >> >> >> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> >> >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 3:45 PM
> >> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> RN's, Doctors, Pharmacists, school teachers and professors, Lab
> >> > techs,
> >> >> >> >> lawyers. Addicts are everywhere.
> >> >> >> >> As a RN, I have the State Board of Alabama Nursing regulating me
> >> >> >> >> and
> >> >> >> >> my
> >> >> >> >> license. I am subject to drug testing at any time.
> >> >> >> >> I would never willfully harm a patient.  Is a trucker willfully
> >> >> >> >> harming
> >> >> >> >> himself, the public and everything else as he craws into his rig
> >> >> >> >> and
> >> >> >> > speeds
> >> >> >> >> along cross country to make a deadline----all to make more 
> >> >> >> >> money?
> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> Many things need to be changed but they never will because
> >> >> >> >> basically
> >> >> > John
> >> >> >> > Q
> >> >> >> >> Public doesn't want them changed. When you get right down to it,
> >> >> >> >> the
> >> >> >> >> truckers are happy with things just the way they are.  They 
> >> >> >> >> don't
> >> > more
> >> >> >> >> and
> >> >> >> >> more regulations on them. You know---you are part trucker!
> >> >> >> >> Susan
> >> >> >> >> ----- Original Message -----
> >> >> >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> >> >> >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> >> >> >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 2:29 PM
> >> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> > Susan,
> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >    And there aren't some RNs who are using drugs to keep going
> > on
> >> >> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> > night
> >> >> >> >> > shift?
> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >    Didn't mean you shouldn't be proud of it.  Just meant that
> >> > there
> >> >> > are
> >> >> >> >> > bad
> >> >> >> >> > apples in your profession, too.  And that's nothing against 
> >> >> >> >> > RNs
> >> >> >> >> > as
> >> > a
> >> >> >> >> > whole.
> >> >> >> >> > They are often underpaid as well.
> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >    Regards,
> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> > Fred
> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
> >> >> >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> >> >> >> >> > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred atkinson"
> >> >> >> >> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> >> >> >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 2:53 PM
> >> >> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> I'm all for supporting family and such.
> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> Today's truckers need to incorporate this and have some 
> >> >> >> >> >> safety
> >> >> >> > concerns.
> >> >> >> >> >> I spoke of my parent's neighbor---he rakes in approx
> >> >> >> >> >> $3000.-$3500
> >> >> > per
> >> >> >> >> > week.
> >> >> >> >> >> Pretty good for a trucker, huh?
> >> >> >> >> >> Most of it goes for crystal meth.    His family travels with
> > him
> >> >> >> >> >> and
> >> >> >> > when
> >> >> >> >> >> they don't his 14yr old does.  Kid never goes to school.
> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> The entire trucking industry needs re-vamping but then again
> >> >> >> >> >> what
> >> >> >> >> >> industry
> >> >> >> >> >> doesn't?
> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> Remember,   I'm RN -- totally 100% ( and proud of it)
> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> Susan
> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> ----- Original Message -----
> >> >> >> >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> >> >> >> >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> >> >> >> >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 1:29 PM
> >> >> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> > Susan,
> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >    There is relief we could reach.
> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >    Truckers don't think the world owes them a living.  Many
> > of
> >> >> > them
> >> >> >> > are
> >> >> >> >> >> > just trying to support their families and pay for their
> > homes
> >> > and
> >> >> >> >> >> > pay
> >> >> >> >> >> > their
> >> >> >> >> >> > taxes.  They don't have the luxury of having their family
> >> > around
> >> >> >> >> >> > when
> >> >> >> >> >> > their
> >> >> >> >> >> > driving shift ends (the over the road ones, I'm refering
> > to).
> >> >> > It's
> >> >> >> >> >> > a
> >> >> >> >> > hard
> >> >> >> >> >> > life.  I've lived it and I know.  I chose not to continue
> >> > living
> >> >> >> >> >> > that
> >> >> >> >> > way.
> >> >> >> >> >> > I was out about three thousand dollars for my driver
> > training
> >> >> >> >> >> > when
> >> >> > I
> >> >> >> >> > quit,
> >> >> >> >> >> > too.  Fortunately, I was able to come up with it.  Others
> >> > aren't
> >> >> > so
> >> >> >> >> > lucky.
> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >    You're right about the work ethic.  Nonetheless, if we
> >> >> >> >> >> > outlawed
> >> >> >> >> > paying
> >> >> >> >> >> > by the mile and paid them by the hour plus made them
> > entitled
> >> > to
> >> >> > be
> >> >> >> >> >> > paid
> >> >> >> >> >> > for
> >> >> >> >> >> > the things they are required to do that they are not
> > currently
> >> >> > paid
> >> >> >> >> >> > for,
> >> >> >> >> >> > it
> >> >> >> >> >> > would change.  As with most solutions, it wouldn't solve
> >> >> > everything.
> >> >> >> >> > But
> >> >> >> >> >> > it
> >> >> >> >> >> > would be a great start.
> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >    I doubt there's anyone here that would take a job and
> > work
> >> > for
> >> >> >> > free.
> >> >> >> >> >> > Truckers are required to for a lot of what they do.  They
> >> >> >> >> >> > don't
> >> >> > get
> >> >> >> >> >> > reimbursed for the meals they get when they travel.  They
> >> >> >> >> >> > don't
> >> >> > get
> >> >> >> > to
> >> >> >> >> >> > sleep
> >> >> >> >> >> > at a hotel as we do when our employers send us traveling.
> > It
> >> >> > comes
> >> >> >> > out
> >> >> >> >> > of
> >> >> >> >> >> > their pocket.
> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >    Susan, there was no excuse for that trucker and I won't
> >> >> >> >> >> > make
> >> >> >> > excuses
> >> >> >> >> >> > for
> >> >> >> >> >> > him.  He belonged in jail and I hope that he is rotting
> > there.
> >> >> > But
> >> >> >> >> >> > remember
> >> >> >> >> >> > that in any profession, there are bad apples.  That's true
> > all
> >> >> >> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> > way
> >> >> >> >> >> > from
> >> >> >> >> >> > the educators to the professionals, to the vocational, to
> > the
> >> >> >> > unskilled
> >> >> >> >> >> > workers as well.
> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >    When I finished my shift and sat in the truckers section
> > in
> >> >> >> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> >> > truck
> >> >> >> >> >> > stop restaurants, I got a chance to get to know some of
> > these
> >> >> >> >> >> > people.
> >> >> >> >> >> > I
> >> >> >> >> >> > was
> >> >> >> >> >> > amazed at the insights of their political views and the
> >> >> >> >> >> > diverse
> >> >> >> >> >> > backgrounds
> >> >> >> >> >> > that many of them came from.   I didn't always agree with
> >> >> >> >> >> > them,
> >> >> > but
> >> >> >> >> >> > I
> >> >> >> >> >> > could
> >> >> >> >> >> > see why they took that position and that many of them had
> >> > really
> >> >> >> >> >> > thought
> >> >> >> >> >> > things through.  The caliber of some of those people
> >> > overwhelmed
> >> >> > me
> >> >> >> > at
> >> >> >> >> >> > times.
> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >    Remember, I'm part trucker (and proud of it).
> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >    Regards,
> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> > Fred
> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
> >> >> >> >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> >> >> >> >> >> > To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> >> >> >> >> >> > Cc: "fred atkinson" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> >> >> >> >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 12:54 PM
> >> >> >> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> This is probably true of most jobs. The newcomers have
> > little
> >> > or
> >> >> > no
> >> >> >> >> > work
> >> >> >> >> >> >> ethics and could care less about anything but the "buck".
> >> >> >> >> >> >> They
> >> >> > give
> >> >> >> >> > about
> >> >> >> >> >> >> 10% or less on the job.
> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> The older worker has respect for his job, others and
> > America.
> >> >> > Many
> >> >> >> >> > give
> >> >> >> >> >> >> 100% or more.
> >> >> >> >> >> >>  The difference is amazing in the two workers.
> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> The sad part is that the newcomers are overtaking the 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> older
> >> >> > workers
> >> >> >> >> >> >> and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> America is suffering.
> >> >> >> >> >> >>  In my role as an administrator for 27 yrs, I hired and
> >> >> > terminated
> >> >> >> >> >> >> RN's
> >> >> >> >> >> > and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> others and I would see this over and over.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> For some unknown reason, 1/2 of the population thinks that
> >> >> > America
> >> >> >> >> >> >> owes
> >> >> >> >> >> > them
> >> >> >> >> >> >> a living( truckers included)
> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> The system is totally messed up and no relief in sight!
> >> >> >> >> >> >> Susan
> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> ----- Original Message -----
> >> >> >> >> >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 11:32 AM
> >> >> >> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >    Regretfully, that is true of the newcomers.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >    They drug themselves up because they have to keep
> > going.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >    I never did any of that.  And I made diddly squat.
> > That
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > was
> >> >> >> > one
> >> >> >> >> > of
> >> >> >> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > reasons I gave it up.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >    It's a system that rewards those who take dangerous
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > risks
> >> >> > and
> >> >> >> >> >> > penalizes
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > those who break the law.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >    Yes, it's messed up.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >    Regards,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >                                           Fred
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > --- machen2081 at bellsouth.net wrote:
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>, "Sansom Class of 1972"
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:50:13 -0500
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > Fred,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > The only way they can make acceptable money is to speed?
> >> >> > Putting
> >> >> >> >> >> > hundreds
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > of thousands of lives at risk every day on the road
> >> > including
> >> >> >> > their
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > own----for them to make some money?
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > Yea they're speeding all right---with the crap that they
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > are
> >> >> >> >> > ingesting
> >> >> >> >> >> > in
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > a
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > pill form.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > I was a hemodialysis RN for 27 years and I can't begin 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > to
> >> > tell
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > you
> >> >> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > number of truckers that I have dialyzed over this period
> > of
> >> >> > time
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > because
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > of
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > their long term drug abuse. This group was the hardest
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > group
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > to
> >> >> >> > work
> >> >> >> >> >> > with
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > due to their non-compliance, disrespect for authority
> >> > figures
> >> >> > and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > continued
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > drug abuse.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > No Fred, I wouldn't get behind a wheel and speed just to
> >> >> > increase
> >> >> >> > my
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > earnings.. I'm just not made that way.  I have respect
> > for
> >> >> > human
> >> >> >> >> > life.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > Period.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > Transport the goods via railroad. Utilize as few trucks
> > as
> >> >> >> > possible.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > As
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > for
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > me, I'm sick of their attitudes---they don't own the
> > roads!
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > You're right about one thing---one bad apple spoils the
> >> > whole
> >> >> >> >> >> > bunch---this
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > goes for everything in life
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > Susan
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > To: <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 10:26 AM
> >> >> >> >> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Yes, Susan,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>     There is drug testing before they can even drive.
> > And
> >> >> > they
> >> >> >> > are
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> subject to surprised, unannounced drug testing, too.
> > I've
> >> >> > been
> >> >> >> >> > tested
> >> >> >> >> >> > a
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> number of times, myself, all negative.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>     Well, you'd probably speed too if you were
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> economically
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> enslaved
> >> >> >> >> >> > and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> the only way to make acceptable money was to speed.
> > Don't
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> you
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> think
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> we
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> could change the law to fix that?
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>     I've been around the truck drivers.  Mostly, they
> > are
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> good
> >> >> >> >> > people
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> trying to make a living.  And remember, it only takes
> > one
> >> > or
> >> >> > two
> >> >> >> >> >> > negative
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> folks in a stereotyped group (ah, that word) to make a
> > lot
> >> > of
> >> >> >> > good
> >> >> >> >> >> > people
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> look bad.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>     We live lifestyles that we'd never live if these
> > folks
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> didn't
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> do
> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> > this
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> work for us.  Remember that.  When we pass laws
> >> > guaranteeing
> >> >> >> > wages,
> >> >> >> >> > we
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> exempt them from the same laws we make to protect
> >> > ourselves.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>     Regards,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>                                             Fred
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> --- tech450 at gmail.com wrote:
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> From: "Rick Peek" <tech450 at gmail.com>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> To: "Sansom Class of 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:13:55 -0500
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Hey Susan,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> My sentiments on truckers are with you also. Driving
> > from
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Gadsden
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> B'ham
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> on the interstate for 8 years, all my dealings with
> >> > truckers
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> have
> >> >> >> >> > been
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> negative also. I have been run off the road several
> > times
> >> >> > myself
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> and
> >> >> >> >> >> > have
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> seen them cause numerous accidents, some of which I
> > barely
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> missed
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> being
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> in
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> myself. I have hit debris many times that was left in
> > the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> road
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> by
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> truckers
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> and almost made me wreck and once hit some scrap metal
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> that
> >> >> > fell
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> off
> >> >> >> >> > a
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> truck
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> and shredded my new tires and almost made me wreck. I
> > have
> >> >> > also
> >> >> >> > had
> >> >> >> >> > my
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> winsheild cracked and paint knocked off by flying rocks
> >> > that
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> fell
> >> >> >> >> > off
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> trucks. I'm on your side.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Rick P.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> On 6/15/06, machen2081 at bellsouth.net
> >> >> > <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> >> >> >> >> > wrote:
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Ah Fred,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> I read and re-read your article with great interest. 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> I
> >> >> > wonder
> >> >> >> > why
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> you
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> would put so much time and energy into such an 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> article.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> You see truck drivers really strike a chord with me 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> and
> >> > I'll
> >> >> >> > tell
> >> >> >> >> > you
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> why.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> I'm sure there are many great truck drivers on the 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> road
> >> > with
> >> >> > a
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> safe
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> driving
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> record. I haven't met many. You stated that people 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> feel
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> anger
> >> >> >> >> > towards
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> truck
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> drivers because of the manner in which they drive on
> > the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> open
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> highway.  You
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> are so correct.   My article may offend you....
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> In 1984, I was taking my mother to and from Birmingham
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> for
> >> >> > her
> >> >> >> >> > chemo
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> treatments three times per week.  On one Wednesday
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> afternoon,
> >> >> > I
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> was
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> driving
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> her red car home with her reclined in the riders side.
> > I
> >> > was
> >> >> > on
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the
> >> >> >> >> >> > left
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> side of  highway I-59 and a "wonderful"truck driver
> > flew
> >> > by
> >> >> > and
> >> >> >> >> > took
> >> >> >> >> >> > off
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> entire side of her car( my mother's side.) He swerved
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> over
> >> >> > into
> >> >> >> > my
> >> >> >> >> >> > lane.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> He never stopped and kept going at approx 90 miles per
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> hr.
> >> >> > I'm
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> sure
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> deliver his goods to a store! I had to chase him down
> > and
> >> >> > lucky
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> for
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> us
> >> >> >> >> >> > a
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> statetrooper was a few miles away.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> I finally got the truck to stop. The driver jumped
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> out(all
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> 4'10"
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> of
> >> >> >> >> >> > him
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> proceeded to cuss me out and even hit me.I was 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> pregnant
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> at
> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> > time)
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> He was stoned out of his mind. At this point,  I was
> > all
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> over
> >> >> >> > him
> >> >> >> >> > and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> since
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> my mother was only slightly injured she had to pull me
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> off
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> of
> >> >> >> > him.
> >> >> >> >> > He
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> denied
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the hit and run---cars were pulled over for witnesses
> > and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the
> >> >> >> >> > trooper
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> had
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> arrived.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Long story short---This precious trucker was stoned on
> >> >> > Demerol,
> >> >> >> >> >> > morphine
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> being serviced by his boyfriend(also stoned)when he
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> nearly
> >> >> >> > killed
> >> >> >> >> > us.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Red
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> paint was all over his wheels--he went to jail with
> > many
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> charges!!!
> >> >> >> >> >> > This
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> wasn't the first time for him either.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> How do these guys pass drug testing?  Is there drug
> >> > testing?
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Like you said.... It isn't whether or not he's at 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> fault
> >> > that
> >> >> >> >> > matters.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> You
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> may have run into him but the question is.. could he
> > have
> >> >> > done
> >> >> >> >> >> > something
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> prevent it from happening?    You figure it out!
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> My parents live next door to a trucker ....This 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> trucker
> >> >> > steals
> >> >> >> >> > goods,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> lets
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> his 14yr drive his 18wheeler on long trips while he
> >> > sleeps,
> >> >> > and
> >> >> >> > is
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> addicted
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> to crystal meth.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> My daughter and I just went to Anniston yesterday and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> were
> >> >> > run
> >> >> >> > off
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> road
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> by a 18 wheeler and then the thing kept
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> chasing us for miles. I called the police but the 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> truck
> >> > had
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> left
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> by
> >> >> >> >> >> > that
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> time. A report was taken.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> As you can see, I have little respect for truckers. My
> >> >> > dealings
> >> >> >> >> > have
> >> >> >> >> >> > not
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> been good. Many are slaves to drugs to keep them going
> >> > these
> >> >> >> > long,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> grueling
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> hours.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> My hats are off to the good ones.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Susan
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> ----- Original Message -----
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> To: "Rebels 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2006 8:52 PM
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> Subject: [Rebels1972] Economic Slavery on the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> Highways
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    I'd like to share some ideas about some of the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> people
> >> >> >> > who
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> make
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> this
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> country great.  They are often the most
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> unappreciated
> >> >> >> > people
> >> >> >> >> > in
> >> >> >> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> world.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    We take them so much for granted despite all
> > that
> >> >> > they
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> do.  Everyone
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> seems to think that the goods on the shelf at 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> your
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> store
> >> >> >> > just
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> appear
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> there
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> magically.  The materials to build your home,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> school,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> or
> >> >> >> >> >> > workplace
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> were
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> always there.  The fuel that makes your car run
> > does
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not
> >> >> >> > just
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> appear
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> at
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> pump.  And there are many other material goods we
> >> > rely
> >> >> > on
> >> >> >> > to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> maintain
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> standard of living.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    There are thousands of good Americans that
> >> > transport
> >> >> >> > these
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> materials
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> us.  They aren't heralded and they get no 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> fanfare.
> >> > Man
> >> >> >> > live
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> lifestyle of
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> separation from their families and work an
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> incredible
> >> >> >> > number
> >> >> >> >> > of
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> hours.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> It
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> is their plight I wish to discuss.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    When the economy went sour at the end of 2001,
> > I
> >> >> > spoke
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with
> >> >> >> >> > a
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> recruiter
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for a national trucking company, she arranged for
> > me
> >> > to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> travel
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Memphis,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Tennessee and attend a three week school that
> > would
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> help
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> me
> >> >> >> >> > get
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Class
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> A
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> commercial driver's license with all the required
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> endorsements
> >> >> >> >> >> > and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> training required for the company to hire me as 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
> >> > over
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> >> >> >> >> > road
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> truck
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driver.  The cost of attending the truck school
> > was
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> over
> >> >> >> > five
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> thousand
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> dollars and I was expected to be responsible for
> > the
> >> >> > cost
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> myself.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was not
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensated in any way for the time I spent in
> >> > school.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    I went to truck driving school with a lot of
> >> > people
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> from
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> different
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> parts
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of the country and different backgrounds.  After
> > we
> >> >> >> > completed
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> first
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> week
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in school, we passed our written exams to get our
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> learner's
> >> >> >> >> >> > permits
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> medical certificates, which were required to
> > operate
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> >> >> >> > big
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> eighteen
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> wheelers.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    The next week was range training.  We learned
> > all
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> manner
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> backing.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Backing was not like backing a car.  It required 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> whole
> >> >> >> >> >> > different
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> twist.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> To back a truck to the right one must turn the
> > wheel
> >> > to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> >> >> >> >> > left
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> until
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> truck jacks to the right.  Then you turn the 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> wheel
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> > right
> >> >> >> >> >> > to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> follow
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the trailer and keep it on the right path.  Even
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> backing
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
> >> >> >> > a
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> straight
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> line
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was difficult.  But we learned our required
> > backing
> >> >> > skills
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> during
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> second
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> week and went on for the road training.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    We drove all over western Tennessee, eastern
> >> >> > Arkansas,
> >> >> >> > and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> northern
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Mississippi.  To the end of the third week we
> >> > completed
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> training
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> passed our road tests.  When we returned to 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> school
> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> > following
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> week,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> we
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were taken to the DMV to get our Class A
> > commercial
> >> >> >> > driver's
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> licenses
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> late we were assigned to a driver who would train
> > us
> >> >> > while
> >> >> >> > we
> >> >> >> >> >> > were
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> actually
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> transporting goods all over the country.  We were
> >> > paid
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> only
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> fifty
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> dollars
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> per day while we trained regardless of the miles
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driven.
> >> >> >> >> > Since
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driver
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> often drives between four and five hundred miles
> > per
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> shift,
> >> >> >> >> > that
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> amounts to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> as little as ten cents per mile or less.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    These three weeks of driver training was done
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and a
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> legal requirement that you repay the company for
> > the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> training.
> >> >> >> >> >> > Of
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> course,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they pro-rated the cost over two years and made
> > the
> >> >> >> > payments
> >> >> >> >> > for
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> your
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> as
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> long as you worked for them.  But if you found it
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> necessary
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> leave,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were on the hook for the pro-rated part of the
> > money
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you
> >> >> >> > owe.
> >> >> >> >> >> > This
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> makes it
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> difficult to leave if you are unhappy with the
> >> > working
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> situation.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    After I completed the training with my
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> instructor,
> >> > I
> >> >> >> > began
> >> >> >> >> > to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> learn
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> things I never knew.  I knew that truck drivers
> > were
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> typically
> >> >> >> >> >> > away
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> from
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> home for months at a time.  I never knew that 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they
> >> > are
> >> >> > not
> >> >> >> >> >> > covered
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> by
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> wage and hour laws (overtime?  What is that?).
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Truck
> >> >> >> > drivers
> >> >> >> >> >> > don't
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> get
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> overtime even though they constantly work in
> > excess
> >> > of
> >> >> >> > sixty
> >> >> >> >> >> > hours
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> per
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> week.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> They get paid for the miles they drive and (on
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> occasion)
> >> >> >> > for
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> loading
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> or
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> unloading a truck, not for the time they work.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Many responsibilities that truck drivers
> > perform
> >> > are
> >> >> >> >> > without
> >> >> >> >> >> > any
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation.  The Department of Transportation
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> requires
> >> >> >> > that
> >> >> >> >> >> > they
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> perform a
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> complete and thorough pre-trip safety inspection
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> each
> >> >> > day,
> >> >> >> >> > which
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> takes
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> fifteen minutes of their time.  They receive no
> >> >> >> > compensation
> >> >> >> >> > for
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> their
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> time
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to perform this.  When they weigh and balance a
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> truck
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
> >> >> >> > make
> >> >> >> >> >> > sure
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> load
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> is legal on the highway, they receive no
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation
> >> >> > for
> >> >> >> >> > that,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> either.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    When they hitch or unhitch a trailer, they
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> receive
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that task.  When a shipper or receiver makes them
> >> > stand
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> around
> >> >> >> >> >> > and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> wait
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> their load to be loaded or unloaded from a
> > trailer,
> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driver
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> receives
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation for the time he is there idle while
> > the
> >> >> >> > shipper
> >> >> >> >> > or
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> receiver
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> focuses on other things (unless he is paid for
> >> > loading
> >> >> > or
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> unloading,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> which
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> isn't often).
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    And the driver is never guaranteed to get a
> >> > shipment
> >> >> > to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> move.  There
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were a number of times where I sat at a truck 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> stop
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
> >> > a
> >> >> >> >> > strange
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> city
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with no
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> load.  Our company compensated us forty dollars
> > per
> >> > day
> >> >> > if
> >> >> >> >> > they
> >> >> >> >> >> > had
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> no
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> load
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for us.  Imagine that, only forty dollars for a
> >> > single
> >> >> > day
> >> >> >> > of
> >> >> >> >> >> > your
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> life
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not all drivers even get that) away from your
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> family,
> >> >> >> >> > community,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> friends.  And the per mile rates for new drivers
> > are
> >> >> > very
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> low.
> >> >> >> >> >> > One
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> asked to pick up a trailer, weigh it to make sure
> > it
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
> >> >> >> >> > legally
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> balanced,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and transport it to the nearest company terminal
> > for
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> reassignment to another driver.  For my several
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hours
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> work,
> >> >> >> >> > I
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> received
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> approximately twelve dollars for my efforts.  It
> >> >> > amounted
> >> >> >> > to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> less
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> than
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> minimum wage.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Truck drivers get no respect.  Once when I was
> > at
> >> > a
> >> >> >> >> > truckstop
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> near
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Canadian border in Maine, a driver told me that
> > his
> >> > CB
> >> >> >> > handle
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'Caucasian
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> scumbag'.  He said that he chose that handle
> > because
> >> > of
> >> >> >> > what
> >> >> >> >> > his
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> father
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (also a truck driver) told him.  Truck driving is
> > an
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> honorable
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> profession,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> but you will never get any respect.  Sadly, I
> > found
> >> >> > myself
> >> >> >> >> >> > agreeing
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> him.  A few examples follow.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Once I made a delivery at a warehouse.  After
> >> >> > 'bumping
> >> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> >> > dock'
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> (an
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> expression used that means you have parked the
> >> > trailer
> >> >> > at
> >> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> loading
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> dock
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> so it can be loaded or unloaded), I found a door
> >> > marked
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'driver's
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> entrance'.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> When I stepped inside the door, I found myself
> >> > standing
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> inside
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
> >> >> >> >> >> > a
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> cage
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (subhuman treatment).
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    I once made a pickup at a major customer.  As
> > my
> >> >> > hours
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> almost
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> used
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> up when I made the pickup, I parked the truck
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> outside
> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> > front
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gate
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> in
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> area where truckers were allowed to park and get
> > the
> >> >> >> > required
> >> >> >> >> >> > time
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> sleeper before they were allowed to drive again.
> >> > When
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
> >> >> >> >> > walked
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> back
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gate requesting to use the restroom, they refused
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> saying
> >> >> >> > that
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> driver's
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> weren't allowed to use the restrooms in the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> facility.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
> >> >> >> > had
> >> >> >> >> > to
> >> >> >> >> >> > go
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> relieve myself in the middle of an open field
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> because
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> there
> >> >> >> >> > was
> >> >> >> >> >> > no
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> other
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> place provided for the drivers.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    People often feel anger towards truck drivers
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> because
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
> >> >> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> manner
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> which they drive on the open highways.  I did not
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> engage
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
> >> >> >> >> > such
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driving and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I did not approve of those who did.  But think of
> >> > what
> >> >> > it
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> cost
> >> >> >> >> >> > me.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Slowing
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> down reduced the amount of money I made. 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Remember
> >> > that
> >> >> >> > many
> >> >> >> >> > of
> >> >> >> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> lesser
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> experienced drivers are not all that well paid
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (contrary
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
> >> >> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> stories
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> about how well truck drivers are paid).  When you
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> are
> >> >> > paid
> >> >> >> > by
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> mile
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> at
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> such a rate as twenty-seven cents a mile and only
> >> >> > allowed
> >> >> >> > to
> >> >> >> >> >> > drive
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> for
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> limited number of hours, making more money
> > requires
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that
> >> >> >> > you
> >> >> >> >> >> > floor
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> it.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> When
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a driver is caught in a traffic jam, he is 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> sitting
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> there
> >> >> >> >> > burning
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> his
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driving
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hours and getting no compensation for it.  He
> > cannot
> >> >> > drive
> >> >> >> >> > extra
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> hours
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> make up for it or the Department of 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Transportation
> >> > will
> >> >> >> > fine
> >> >> >> >> > him
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> when
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> audit his driving logbook.  To that end, some
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> drivers
> >> >> >> > falsify
> >> >> >> >> >> > their
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> logbook
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to drive more miles.  This means that they are
> >> > driving
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> over
> >> >> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> number
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hours it is safe for a person's body to be alert
> >> > enough
> >> >> > to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> handle
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> eighty-thousand pound multi-vehicle truck and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> creates
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
> >> >> >> >> >> > additional
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hazard.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Truck drivers would like to see that changed,
> > but
> >> >> > it's
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> difficult.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'Over
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the road' drivers are away from home for months 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> at
> > a
> >> >> > time.
> >> >> >> >> >> > Because
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> of
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they don't get to vote.  Politicians look at 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> those
> >> >> >> > statistics
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> they
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> realize that spending time helping truck drivers
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> does
> >> >> > not
> >> >> >> >> > yield
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> them
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> additional votes.  This does not motivate the
> >> >> > politicians
> >> >> >> > to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> make
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> things any
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> easier for them.  Once, a driver told me that he
> > had
> >> >> > tried
> >> >> >> > to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> get
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> absentee ballot.  He was asked where he'd be on
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> election
> >> >> >> > day.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> He
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> told
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> them
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> he had no way of knowing because he was sent to
> >> >> > different
> >> >> >> >> > places
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> often
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> on
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> only a few hours notice.  Because he couldn't 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> tell
> >> > them
> >> >> >> > where
> >> >> >> >> >> > he'd
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> be
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> on
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> election day, they denied him an absentee ballot.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    As long as we continue to pay our over the 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> road
> >> >> > drivers
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'by
> >> >> >> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> mile'
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> instead of by the hour and pay them for the 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> things
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> truck
> >> >> >> >> > drivers
> >> >> >> >> >> > do
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> for
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation every day, the way many truck 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> drivers
> >> >> > operate
> >> >> >> >> > their
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> vehicles is
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not going to change.  There is significant
> >> > legislative
> >> >> >> > reform
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> needed
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> but no
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> political incentive to perform it.  And many of
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> these
> >> >> > good
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> people
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> continue
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to suffer while making a living to support their
> >> >> > families
> >> >> >> >> > (with
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> whom
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> are able to spend very little time with).  The
> > next
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> time
> >> >> >> > you
> >> >> >> >> >> > enjoy
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> your
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> breakfast, buy nice new clothes at the store, 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> fill
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> up
> >> >> > your
> >> >> >> >> > tank
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gasoline, or partake of any number of other
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> countless
> >> >> >> > things,
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> should
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> remember that truck drivers brought those
> > materials
> >> > to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Imagine if the trucks stopped rolling for a
> > week.
> >> >> > We'd
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> experience
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gas
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> shortages, food shortages, and have to learn to 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> do
> >> >> > without
> >> >> >> >> > many
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> things.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    When a driver is involved in a traffic
> > accident,
> >> > it
> >> >> >> > isn't
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> whether
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> or
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> he is at fault that matters.  You may have run
> > into
> >> > him
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> but
> >> >> >> >> > the
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> question is
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> could he have done something to prevent it from
> >> >> > happening?
> >> >> >> >> > Even
> >> >> >> >> >> > if
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> he
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not at fault in the accident, it often is still
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> reported
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> on
> >> >> >> >> > his
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> driving
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> record as 'preventable' (which stacks against him
> >> > when
> >> >> > his
> >> >> >> >> >> > driving
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> record is
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> reviewed for insurance or for possible employment
> >> > with
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
> >> >> >> >> >> > different
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> trucking
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> company).  Imagine that, you caused the accident
> > but
> >> >> > they
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hold
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> it
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> against
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the truck driver anyway.  He is responsible for
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> managing
> >> >> >> >> > *your*
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> driving
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> safety habits.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    These dramatically under appreciated people
> > live
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
> >> >> >> >> > lifestyle
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> I
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> don't understand how they continue to live day in
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
> >> >> > day
> >> >> >> > out
> >> >> >> >> >> > year
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> after
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> year.  Essentially they are slaves to our system
> > and
> >> > we
> >> >> >> >> > continue
> >> >> >> >> >> > to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> take
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> advantage of them paying many of them low wages
> > and
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> working
> >> >> >> >> > them
> >> >> >> >> >> > at
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> schedule that would cause most of us to 
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> experience
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> complete
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> exhaustion.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    My hat is off to them and I think about them
> > from
> >> >> > time
> >> >> >> > to
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> time.  God
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> bless our truck drivers.
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> _______________________________________________
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Rebels1972 mailing list
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> _______________________________________________
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Rebels1972 mailing list
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> >> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> --
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Rick Peek
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Tech450 at gmail.com
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 mailing list
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 mailing list
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >>
> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >> >
> >> >> >>
> >> >> >>
> >> >> >
> >> >> >
> >> >>
> >> >>
> >> >
> >> >
> >>
> >>
> >
> > 
> 
> 
> 
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net


From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Fri Jun 16 07:03:27 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 08:03:27 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <908152144.1150431758102.JavaMail.root@fepweb05>
Message-ID: <000801c6913c$e1212970$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

Pat,

    It's not as easy as that for some of them.  You can't just quit a job
when you've got a family to raise and financial responsibilities.

    Call it banter if you want.

    Try living it before making such remarks.

    Regards,



                                                                        Fred


----- Original Message -----
From: <bmorgan7459 at charter.net>
To: "Sansom Class of 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
Cc: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:22 AM
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


> FRED AND SUSAN
>
> HAHAHAHAH LOL HEEHEEHEE
> THAT WAS SOME OF THE BEST BANTER I?VE HEARD-READ IN A LONG TIME . I MUST
ADMIT THAT WAS A HOOT.  MY SIDES HURT FROM LAUGHING.  I WISH I COULD HAVE
SEEN YOU BEAT THE HELL OUT OF THAT LITTLE JERK OF A POOR EXCUSE OF A HUMAN
BE-SOMETHING.
> NOT WANTING TO INTERFERE WITH YOUR OPINIONS I WOULD LIKE TO INJECT ONE
IDEA.  THEY DON T HAVE TO DO IT.  IF YOU ARE NOT SATISFIED WITH THE PAY YOU
RECEIVE,  WALK AWAY.  DON T BLAME IT ON THE GOVERNMENT.  THIS IS A FREE
COUNTRY.   I'M SURE YOU WERE TOLD THE WAGES BEFORE YOU STARTED, IF NOT WHOSE
FAULT IS THAT.  I DON T THINK WE NEED ANYMORE LEGISLATION TELLING  US WHAT
TO DO.  WE ALREADY LEGISLATE ENOUGH MORALITY; PRETTY SOON WE WONT NEED TO
MAKE DECISIONS FOR OURSELVES IT WILL BE A LAW.
> SORRY TO INTERRUPT.  DIDN'T MEAN TO GET ON MY SOAPBOX.
> OH YEAH FRED,  LOOK UP JIMMY HOFFA AND THE TEAMSTERS.
> SORRY AGAIN.
>
> PAT
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> ---- machen2081 at bellsouth.net wrote:
> > If I understand from the truckers I know, some are self employed other
are
> > not. Some chose to work long hours, others do not.
> > I don't understand the inability to vote. That certainly needs to be
> > addressed with their congressmen or Senator esp. during an election
year.
> >
> > I didn't start this conversation talking about the fairness. I started
> > talking about safety issues and that is my concern. Fairness and safety
are
> > related how?
> > They should be treated fairly as should everyone but they should ensure
safe
> > driving on the nation's infrastructure.
> >
> > Back to the statistics---you may need to change the prescription on your
> > glasses if you saw more safe drivers than crazy ones when you were
driving.
> > The highways are full of crazy ones! I think 2 classmates just posted an
> > email to tell you that today.
> >
> > Why did Elvis die of a drug overdose?  He was a drug crazed addict and
had
> > been for years. His career was over and had been for years.
> > Economically motivated?  No, his body was so bloated  from drug abuse
and he
> > had about 18 different class A narcotics in his system at his time of
death.
> > He didn't need the money-he needed the dope.
> >
> > Again-----how's your summer? Are you teaching?
> >
> >
> > ----- Original Message -----
> > From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> > To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 8:25 PM
> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> >
> >
> > > Susan,
> > >
> > >    And they do, too.  It's not fair for you to be protected by minimum
> > > wage
> > > laws and them not be.  It's not fair for you to only have to work
forty
> > > hours before you get overtime and them work sixty to seventy hours per
> > > week
> > > and get *no* overtime.  It is not fair for you to be paid for even
minute
> > > of
> > > your time and them not be.  It should be both or neither.  They put in
> > > more
> > > hours making the economy in this country grow than even us full
timers.
> > > And
> > > we wouldn't have the jobs or lifestyles we have if they didn't.  And
they
> > > are not even guaranteed that the number of miles they drive will bring
> > > them
> > > up to minimum wage by the time they divide their pay by the number of
> > > actual
> > > hours worked.
> > >
> > >    If you call that fair, you need to think again.
> > >
> > >    Did you ever see an episode of Star Trek called the Cloud Minders?
It
> > > kind of illustrates the idea.
> > >
> > >    Where do you get *your* statistics Susan (since you ask me)?  I get
> > > mine
> > > from the number of safe drivers I saw versus the number of crazy ones
I
> > > saw.
> > >
> > >    You're quite wrong about them not wanting it changed.  I've spoken
with
> > > many a driver that wants to see that kind of reform.  But no one in
> > > Washington will listen because they are not able to vote.
> > >
> > >    I think you should hold off on criticizing them so much until
you've
> > > experienced the lifestyle.  I used to have the same views you do.  Now
> > > that
> > > I've walked (driven) thousands of miles in their shoes, I see it very
> > > differently.
> > >
> > >    No, I don't approve of that kind of driving.  But I do understand
why
> > > it
> > > is economically motivated.  And we could end that.
> > >
> > >    Why did Elvis die of drug overdose?  He kept taking drugs to keep
going
> > > to further his career.  To work the kind of travel and show schedule
he
> > > did
> > > required incredible amounts of energy.  Hmmm.  Again, economically
> > > motivated
> > > (not that I approve of it, but it is economically motivated).
> > >
> > >    Regards,
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > Fred
> > >
> > > ----- Original Message -----
> > > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> > > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred atkinson"
> > > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> > > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 9:09 PM
> > > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> > >
> > >
> > >> I'd love to know where you get your statistics Fred.... from your
> > >> bellybutton lint?
> > >> And why is it our fault?  We need to eat and sustain life.. We need
> > >> commodities to keep our lives afloat...
> > >> Heck fire,  I don't make those rules and regs that they don't abide
by
> > >> and
> > > I
> > >> don't shove the uppers down their throats and needles in their veins.
> > >>
> > >> Getting laws changed to help them?  Most of them don't want the laws
> > >> changed---they like it just the way it is. More money is to be made
the
> > > way
> > >> it is right now.   Most truckers are a necessary evil.
> > >>
> > >> Now let's move on to another subject--this is getting boring Fred.
How's
> > >> your summer?
> > >>
> > >> Susan
> > >> ----- Original Message -----
> > >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> > >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> > >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 7:33 PM
> > >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> > >>
> > >>
> > >> > Susan,
> > >> >
> > >> >    Not the majority.  But a lot of them.  And a lot of it is
> > > economically
> > >> > motivated.  And that is our own fault.
> > >> >
> > >> >    Regards,
> > >> >
> > >> >
> > >> >
> > >> >
> > >> > Fred
> > >> >
> > >> > ----- Original Message -----
> > >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> > >> > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred atkinson"
> > >> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> > >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 5:17 PM
> > >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> > >> >
> > >> >
> > >> >> Fred,
> > >> >> I don't want to prove any point.   I'm only stating facts. They
> > >> >> are----
> > >> > the
> > >> >> majority of the 18 wheelers on the road are unsafe and have caused
> > >> > numerous
> > >> >> accidents.
> > >> >> The drivers are popping pills and not adhering to the rules and
> > >> > regulations.
> > >> >> How many lives are lost on the highways due to these rigs
exceeding
> > >> >> the
> > >> >> speed limit or changing lanes?  It's unbelievable.
> > >> >>
> > >> >> It's a no win situation all the way around.   You sound more like
a
> > >> > trucker
> > >> >> than a teacher.
> > >> >> SM
> > >> >>
> > >> >>
> > >> >> ----- Original Message -----
> > >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> > >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> > >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 4:04 PM
> > >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> > >> >>
> > >> >>
> > >> >> > Well, Susan,
> > >> >> >
> > >> >> >    I think you are proving my point.  Why do you think that most
of
> > >> >> > them
> > >> >> > hype themselves up on drugs?  It's so they can keep going and
get in
> > >> > more
> > >> >> > miles.  I wouldn't resort to speeding or loading myself up.  And
I
> > >> >> > couldn't
> > >> >> > make a decent living.
> > >> >> >
> > >> >> >    By your own admission, that guy making all the money driving
a
> > > truck
> > >> > is
> > >> >> > constantly breaking the law to do it.  How about the poor souls
that
> > >> > don't
> > >> >> > break the law?  They don't make that much money.  And nobody
cares
> > >> >> > about
> > >> >> > them.
> > >> >> >
> > >> >> >    One trucker was telling me about the incredibly outrageous
number
> > > of
> > >> >> > hours he drove.  I told him that he'd get caught sooner or
later.
> > > But
> > >> > he
> > >> >> > said he had to take the risk to support his family and for them
he'd
> > > do
> > >> >> > it.
> > >> >> >
> > >> >> >    As I previously said, getting rid of 'by the mile' pay won't
> > >> > completely
> > >> >> > solve the problem.  But it'll go a long way towards making
things
> > >> > better.
> > >> >> >
> > >> >> >    Regards,
> > >> >> >
> > >> >> >
> > >> >> >
> > >> >> > Fred
> > >> >> >
> > >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
> > >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> > >> >> > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> > >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 4:46 PM
> > >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> > >> >> >
> > >> >> >
> > >> >> >> When one RN comes in and gives you the wrong medication and
causes
> > > you
> > >> >> > great
> > >> >> >> harm---I think that you would be extremely cautious of the
whole
> > > lot.
> > >> >> > That's
> > >> >> >> human nature.
> > >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> Fred, I'm not blaming the entire trucking industry for the
problems
> > > of
> > >> >> >> several thousands. But if a poll was taken, I bet more people
are
> > >> > having
> > >> >> >> severe problems with big rigs on the road today.  The truckers
seem
> > > to
> > >> >> > think
> > >> >> >> that they own the road and we cars need to get out of their
way.
> > >> >> >> I do get out of their way---way out!
> > >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> Drug abuse crosses all professional boundaries. Vehicular
homicide
> > > is
> > >> >> >> another story.
> > >> >> >> Sm
> > >> >> >>
> > >> >> >>
> > >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> ----- Original Message -----
> > >> >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> > >> >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> > >> >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 3:33 PM
> > >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> > >> >> >>
> > >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> > Yes,
> > >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >    And should the everyone in the RN profession be blamed
every
> > > time
> > >> > a
> > >> >> >> > single person violates that trust?
> > >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >    Regards,
> > >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> > Fred
> > >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
> > >> >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> > >> >> >> > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred atkinson"
> > >> >> >> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> > >> >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 3:45 PM
> > >> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> > >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> RN's, Doctors, Pharmacists, school teachers and professors,
Lab
> > >> > techs,
> > >> >> >> >> lawyers. Addicts are everywhere.
> > >> >> >> >> As a RN, I have the State Board of Alabama Nursing
regulating me
> > >> >> >> >> and
> > >> >> >> >> my
> > >> >> >> >> license. I am subject to drug testing at any time.
> > >> >> >> >> I would never willfully harm a patient.  Is a trucker
willfully
> > >> >> >> >> harming
> > >> >> >> >> himself, the public and everything else as he craws into his
rig
> > >> >> >> >> and
> > >> >> >> > speeds
> > >> >> >> >> along cross country to make a deadline----all to make more
> > >> >> >> >> money?
> > >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> Many things need to be changed but they never will because
> > >> >> >> >> basically
> > >> >> > John
> > >> >> >> > Q
> > >> >> >> >> Public doesn't want them changed. When you get right down to
it,
> > >> >> >> >> the
> > >> >> >> >> truckers are happy with things just the way they are.  They
> > >> >> >> >> don't
> > >> > more
> > >> >> >> >> and
> > >> >> >> >> more regulations on them. You know---you are part trucker!
> > >> >> >> >> Susan
> > >> >> >> >> ----- Original Message -----
> > >> >> >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> > >> >> >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> > >> >> >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 2:29 PM
> > >> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> > >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> > Susan,
> > >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >    And there aren't some RNs who are using drugs to keep
going
> > > on
> > >> >> >> >> > the
> > >> >> >> >> > night
> > >> >> >> >> > shift?
> > >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >    Didn't mean you shouldn't be proud of it.  Just meant
that
> > >> > there
> > >> >> > are
> > >> >> >> >> > bad
> > >> >> >> >> > apples in your profession, too.  And that's nothing
against
> > >> >> >> >> > RNs
> > >> >> >> >> > as
> > >> > a
> > >> >> >> >> > whole.
> > >> >> >> >> > They are often underpaid as well.
> > >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >    Regards,
> > >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> > Fred
> > >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
> > >> >> >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> > >> >> >> >> > To: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "fred
atkinson"
> > >> >> >> >> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> > >> >> >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 2:53 PM
> > >> >> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> > >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> I'm all for supporting family and such.
> > >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> Today's truckers need to incorporate this and have some
> > >> >> >> >> >> safety
> > >> >> >> > concerns.
> > >> >> >> >> >> I spoke of my parent's neighbor---he rakes in approx
> > >> >> >> >> >> $3000.-$3500
> > >> >> > per
> > >> >> >> >> > week.
> > >> >> >> >> >> Pretty good for a trucker, huh?
> > >> >> >> >> >> Most of it goes for crystal meth.    His family travels
with
> > > him
> > >> >> >> >> >> and
> > >> >> >> > when
> > >> >> >> >> >> they don't his 14yr old does.  Kid never goes to school.
> > >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> The entire trucking industry needs re-vamping but then
again
> > >> >> >> >> >> what
> > >> >> >> >> >> industry
> > >> >> >> >> >> doesn't?
> > >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> Remember,   I'm RN -- totally 100% ( and proud of it)
> > >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> Susan
> > >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> ----- Original Message -----
> > >> >> >> >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> > >> >> >> >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> > >> >> >> >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 1:29 PM
> > >> >> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> > >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> > Susan,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >    There is relief we could reach.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >    Truckers don't think the world owes them a living.
Many
> > > of
> > >> >> > them
> > >> >> >> > are
> > >> >> >> >> >> > just trying to support their families and pay for their
> > > homes
> > >> > and
> > >> >> >> >> >> > pay
> > >> >> >> >> >> > their
> > >> >> >> >> >> > taxes.  They don't have the luxury of having their
family
> > >> > around
> > >> >> >> >> >> > when
> > >> >> >> >> >> > their
> > >> >> >> >> >> > driving shift ends (the over the road ones, I'm
refering
> > > to).
> > >> >> > It's
> > >> >> >> >> >> > a
> > >> >> >> >> > hard
> > >> >> >> >> >> > life.  I've lived it and I know.  I chose not to
continue
> > >> > living
> > >> >> >> >> >> > that
> > >> >> >> >> > way.
> > >> >> >> >> >> > I was out about three thousand dollars for my driver
> > > training
> > >> >> >> >> >> > when
> > >> >> > I
> > >> >> >> >> > quit,
> > >> >> >> >> >> > too.  Fortunately, I was able to come up with it.
Others
> > >> > aren't
> > >> >> > so
> > >> >> >> >> > lucky.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >    You're right about the work ethic.  Nonetheless, if
we
> > >> >> >> >> >> > outlawed
> > >> >> >> >> > paying
> > >> >> >> >> >> > by the mile and paid them by the hour plus made them
> > > entitled
> > >> > to
> > >> >> > be
> > >> >> >> >> >> > paid
> > >> >> >> >> >> > for
> > >> >> >> >> >> > the things they are required to do that they are not
> > > currently
> > >> >> > paid
> > >> >> >> >> >> > for,
> > >> >> >> >> >> > it
> > >> >> >> >> >> > would change.  As with most solutions, it wouldn't
solve
> > >> >> > everything.
> > >> >> >> >> > But
> > >> >> >> >> >> > it
> > >> >> >> >> >> > would be a great start.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >    I doubt there's anyone here that would take a job
and
> > > work
> > >> > for
> > >> >> >> > free.
> > >> >> >> >> >> > Truckers are required to for a lot of what they do.
They
> > >> >> >> >> >> > don't
> > >> >> > get
> > >> >> >> >> >> > reimbursed for the meals they get when they travel.
They
> > >> >> >> >> >> > don't
> > >> >> > get
> > >> >> >> > to
> > >> >> >> >> >> > sleep
> > >> >> >> >> >> > at a hotel as we do when our employers send us
traveling.
> > > It
> > >> >> > comes
> > >> >> >> > out
> > >> >> >> >> > of
> > >> >> >> >> >> > their pocket.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >    Susan, there was no excuse for that trucker and I
won't
> > >> >> >> >> >> > make
> > >> >> >> > excuses
> > >> >> >> >> >> > for
> > >> >> >> >> >> > him.  He belonged in jail and I hope that he is rotting
> > > there.
> > >> >> > But
> > >> >> >> >> >> > remember
> > >> >> >> >> >> > that in any profession, there are bad apples.  That's
true
> > > all
> > >> >> >> >> >> > the
> > >> >> >> > way
> > >> >> >> >> >> > from
> > >> >> >> >> >> > the educators to the professionals, to the vocational,
to
> > > the
> > >> >> >> > unskilled
> > >> >> >> >> >> > workers as well.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >    When I finished my shift and sat in the truckers
section
> > > in
> > >> >> >> >> >> > the
> > >> >> >> >> >> > truck
> > >> >> >> >> >> > stop restaurants, I got a chance to get to know some of
> > > these
> > >> >> >> >> >> > people.
> > >> >> >> >> >> > I
> > >> >> >> >> >> > was
> > >> >> >> >> >> > amazed at the insights of their political views and the
> > >> >> >> >> >> > diverse
> > >> >> >> >> >> > backgrounds
> > >> >> >> >> >> > that many of them came from.   I didn't always agree
with
> > >> >> >> >> >> > them,
> > >> >> > but
> > >> >> >> >> >> > I
> > >> >> >> >> >> > could
> > >> >> >> >> >> > see why they took that position and that many of them
had
> > >> > really
> > >> >> >> >> >> > thought
> > >> >> >> >> >> > things through.  The caliber of some of those people
> > >> > overwhelmed
> > >> >> > me
> > >> >> >> > at
> > >> >> >> >> >> > times.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >    Remember, I'm part trucker (and proud of it).
> > >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >    Regards,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> > Fred
> > >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
> > >> >> >> >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> > >> >> >> >> >> > To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> > >> >> >> >> >> > Cc: "fred atkinson" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> > >> >> >> >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 12:54 PM
> > >> >> >> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> > >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> This is probably true of most jobs. The newcomers have
> > > little
> > >> > or
> > >> >> > no
> > >> >> >> >> > work
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> ethics and could care less about anything but the
"buck".
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> They
> > >> >> > give
> > >> >> >> >> > about
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> 10% or less on the job.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> The older worker has respect for his job, others and
> > > America.
> > >> >> > Many
> > >> >> >> >> > give
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> 100% or more.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >>  The difference is amazing in the two workers.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> The sad part is that the newcomers are overtaking the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> older
> > >> >> > workers
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> America is suffering.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >>  In my role as an administrator for 27 yrs, I hired
and
> > >> >> > terminated
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> RN's
> > >> >> >> >> >> > and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> others and I would see this over and over.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> For some unknown reason, 1/2 of the population thinks
that
> > >> >> > America
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> owes
> > >> >> >> >> >> > them
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> a living( truckers included)
> > >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> The system is totally messed up and no relief in
sight!
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> Susan
> > >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> ----- Original Message -----
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 11:32 AM
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> > >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >    Regretfully, that is true of the newcomers.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >    They drug themselves up because they have to keep
> > > going.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >    I never did any of that.  And I made diddly
squat.
> > > That
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > was
> > >> >> >> > one
> > >> >> >> >> > of
> > >> >> >> >> >> > the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > reasons I gave it up.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >    It's a system that rewards those who take
dangerous
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > risks
> > >> >> > and
> > >> >> >> >> >> > penalizes
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > those who break the law.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >    Yes, it's messed up.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >    Regards,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >                                           Fred
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > --- machen2081 at bellsouth.net wrote:
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>, "Sansom Class of 1972"
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:50:13 -0500
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > Fred,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > The only way they can make acceptable money is to
speed?
> > >> >> > Putting
> > >> >> >> >> >> > hundreds
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > of thousands of lives at risk every day on the road
> > >> > including
> > >> >> >> > their
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > own----for them to make some money?
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > Yea they're speeding all right---with the crap that
they
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > are
> > >> >> >> >> > ingesting
> > >> >> >> >> >> > in
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > a
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > pill form.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > I was a hemodialysis RN for 27 years and I can't
begin
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > to
> > >> > tell
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > you
> > >> >> >> >> > the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > number of truckers that I have dialyzed over this
period
> > > of
> > >> >> > time
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > because
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > of
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > their long term drug abuse. This group was the
hardest
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > group
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > to
> > >> >> >> > work
> > >> >> >> >> >> > with
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > due to their non-compliance, disrespect for
authority
> > >> > figures
> > >> >> > and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > continued
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > drug abuse.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > No Fred, I wouldn't get behind a wheel and speed
just to
> > >> >> > increase
> > >> >> >> > my
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > earnings.. I'm just not made that way.  I have
respect
> > > for
> > >> >> > human
> > >> >> >> >> > life.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > Period.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > Transport the goods via railroad. Utilize as few
trucks
> > > as
> > >> >> >> > possible.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > As
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > for
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > me, I'm sick of their attitudes---they don't own the
> > > roads!
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > You're right about one thing---one bad apple spoils
the
> > >> > whole
> > >> >> >> >> >> > bunch---this
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > goes for everything in life
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > Susan
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > ----- Original Message -----
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > To: <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > Sent: Thursday, June 15, 2006 10:26 AM
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Yes, Susan,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>     There is drug testing before they can even
drive.
> > > And
> > >> >> > they
> > >> >> >> > are
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> subject to surprised, unannounced drug testing,
too.
> > > I've
> > >> >> > been
> > >> >> >> >> > tested
> > >> >> >> >> >> > a
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> number of times, myself, all negative.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>     Well, you'd probably speed too if you were
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> economically
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> enslaved
> > >> >> >> >> >> > and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> the only way to make acceptable money was to speed.
> > > Don't
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> you
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> think
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> we
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> could change the law to fix that?
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>     I've been around the truck drivers.  Mostly,
they
> > > are
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> good
> > >> >> >> >> > people
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> trying to make a living.  And remember, it only
takes
> > > one
> > >> > or
> > >> >> > two
> > >> >> >> >> >> > negative
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> folks in a stereotyped group (ah, that word) to
make a
> > > lot
> > >> > of
> > >> >> >> > good
> > >> >> >> >> >> > people
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> look bad.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>     We live lifestyles that we'd never live if
these
> > > folks
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> didn't
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> do
> > >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> > this
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> work for us.  Remember that.  When we pass laws
> > >> > guaranteeing
> > >> >> >> > wages,
> > >> >> >> >> > we
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> exempt them from the same laws we make to protect
> > >> > ourselves.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>     Regards,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>                                             Fred
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> --- tech450 at gmail.com wrote:
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> From: "Rick Peek" <tech450 at gmail.com>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> To: "Sansom Class of 1972"
<rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] truckers
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Date: Thu, 15 Jun 2006 10:13:55 -0500
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Hey Susan,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> My sentiments on truckers are with you also.
Driving
> > > from
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Gadsden
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> B'ham
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> on the interstate for 8 years, all my dealings with
> > >> > truckers
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> have
> > >> >> >> >> > been
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> negative also. I have been run off the road several
> > > times
> > >> >> > myself
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> and
> > >> >> >> >> >> > have
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> seen them cause numerous accidents, some of which I
> > > barely
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> missed
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> being
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> in
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> myself. I have hit debris many times that was left
in
> > > the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> road
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> by
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> truckers
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> and almost made me wreck and once hit some scrap
metal
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> that
> > >> >> > fell
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> off
> > >> >> >> >> > a
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> truck
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> and shredded my new tires and almost made me wreck.
I
> > > have
> > >> >> > also
> > >> >> >> > had
> > >> >> >> >> > my
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> winsheild cracked and paint knocked off by flying
rocks
> > >> > that
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> fell
> > >> >> >> >> > off
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> trucks. I'm on your side.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Rick P.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> On 6/15/06, machen2081 at bellsouth.net
> > >> >> > <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> > >> >> >> >> > wrote:
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Ah Fred,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> I read and re-read your article with great
interest.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> I
> > >> >> > wonder
> > >> >> >> > why
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> you
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> would put so much time and energy into such an
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> article.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> You see truck drivers really strike a chord with
me
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> and
> > >> > I'll
> > >> >> >> > tell
> > >> >> >> >> > you
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> why.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> I'm sure there are many great truck drivers on the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> road
> > >> > with
> > >> >> > a
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> safe
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> driving
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> record. I haven't met many. You stated that people
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> feel
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> anger
> > >> >> >> >> > towards
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> truck
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> drivers because of the manner in which they drive
on
> > > the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> open
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> highway.  You
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> are so correct.   My article may offend you....
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> In 1984, I was taking my mother to and from
Birmingham
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> for
> > >> >> > her
> > >> >> >> >> > chemo
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> treatments three times per week.  On one Wednesday
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> afternoon,
> > >> >> > I
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> was
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> driving
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> her red car home with her reclined in the riders
side.
> > > I
> > >> > was
> > >> >> > on
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the
> > >> >> >> >> >> > left
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> side of  highway I-59 and a "wonderful"truck
driver
> > > flew
> > >> > by
> > >> >> > and
> > >> >> >> >> > took
> > >> >> >> >> >> > off
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> entire side of her car( my mother's side.) He
swerved
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> over
> > >> >> > into
> > >> >> >> > my
> > >> >> >> >> >> > lane.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> He never stopped and kept going at approx 90 miles
per
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> hr.
> > >> >> > I'm
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> sure
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> deliver his goods to a store! I had to chase him
down
> > > and
> > >> >> > lucky
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> for
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> us
> > >> >> >> >> >> > a
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> statetrooper was a few miles away.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> I finally got the truck to stop. The driver jumped
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> out(all
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> 4'10"
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> of
> > >> >> >> >> >> > him
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> proceeded to cuss me out and even hit me.I was
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> pregnant
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> at
> > >> >> > the
> > >> >> >> >> > time)
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> He was stoned out of his mind. At this point,  I
was
> > > all
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> over
> > >> >> >> > him
> > >> >> >> >> > and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> since
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> my mother was only slightly injured she had to
pull me
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> off
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> of
> > >> >> >> > him.
> > >> >> >> >> > He
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> denied
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the hit and run---cars were pulled over for
witnesses
> > > and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the
> > >> >> >> >> > trooper
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> had
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> arrived.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Long story short---This precious trucker was
stoned on
> > >> >> > Demerol,
> > >> >> >> >> >> > morphine
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> being serviced by his boyfriend(also stoned)when
he
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> nearly
> > >> >> >> > killed
> > >> >> >> >> > us.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Red
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> paint was all over his wheels--he went to jail
with
> > > many
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> charges!!!
> > >> >> >> >> >> > This
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> wasn't the first time for him either.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> How do these guys pass drug testing?  Is there
drug
> > >> > testing?
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Like you said.... It isn't whether or not he's at
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> fault
> > >> > that
> > >> >> >> >> > matters.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> You
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> may have run into him but the question is.. could
he
> > > have
> > >> >> > done
> > >> >> >> >> >> > something
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> prevent it from happening?    You figure it out!
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> My parents live next door to a trucker ....This
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> trucker
> > >> >> > steals
> > >> >> >> >> > goods,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> lets
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> his 14yr drive his 18wheeler on long trips while
he
> > >> > sleeps,
> > >> >> > and
> > >> >> >> > is
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> addicted
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> to crystal meth.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> My daughter and I just went to Anniston yesterday
and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> were
> > >> >> > run
> > >> >> >> > off
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> road
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> by a 18 wheeler and then the thing kept
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> chasing us for miles. I called the police but the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> truck
> > >> > had
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> left
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> by
> > >> >> >> >> >> > that
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> time. A report was taken.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> As you can see, I have little respect for
truckers. My
> > >> >> > dealings
> > >> >> >> >> > have
> > >> >> >> >> >> > not
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> been good. Many are slaves to drugs to keep them
going
> > >> > these
> > >> >> >> > long,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> grueling
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> hours.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> My hats are off to the good ones.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Susan
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> ----- Original Message -----
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> To: "Rebels 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2006 8:52 PM
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> Subject: [Rebels1972] Economic Slavery on the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> Highways
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    I'd like to share some ideas about some of
the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> people
> > >> >> >> > who
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> make
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> this
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> country great.  They are often the most
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> unappreciated
> > >> >> >> > people
> > >> >> >> >> > in
> > >> >> >> >> >> > the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> world.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    We take them so much for granted despite
all
> > > that
> > >> >> > they
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> do.  Everyone
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> seems to think that the goods on the shelf at
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> your
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> store
> > >> >> >> > just
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> appear
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> there
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> magically.  The materials to build your home,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> school,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> or
> > >> >> >> >> >> > workplace
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> were
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> always there.  The fuel that makes your car
run
> > > does
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not
> > >> >> >> > just
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> appear
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> at
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> pump.  And there are many other material
goods we
> > >> > rely
> > >> >> > on
> > >> >> >> > to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> maintain
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> standard of living.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    There are thousands of good Americans that
> > >> > transport
> > >> >> >> > these
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> materials
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> us.  They aren't heralded and they get no
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> fanfare.
> > >> > Man
> > >> >> >> > live
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> lifestyle of
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> separation from their families and work an
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> incredible
> > >> >> >> > number
> > >> >> >> >> > of
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> hours.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> It
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> is their plight I wish to discuss.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    When the economy went sour at the end of
2001,
> > > I
> > >> >> > spoke
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with
> > >> >> >> >> > a
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> recruiter
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for a national trucking company, she arranged
for
> > > me
> > >> > to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> travel
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Memphis,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Tennessee and attend a three week school that
> > > would
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> help
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> me
> > >> >> >> >> > get
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Class
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> A
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> commercial driver's license with all the
required
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> endorsements
> > >> >> >> >> >> > and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> training required for the company to hire me
as
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
> > >> > over
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> > >> >> >> >> > road
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> truck
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driver.  The cost of attending the truck
school
> > > was
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> over
> > >> >> >> > five
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> thousand
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> dollars and I was expected to be responsible
for
> > > the
> > >> >> > cost
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> myself.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was not
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensated in any way for the time I spent
in
> > >> > school.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    I went to truck driving school with a lot
of
> > >> > people
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> from
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> different
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> parts
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of the country and different backgrounds.
After
> > > we
> > >> >> >> > completed
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> first
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> week
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in school, we passed our written exams to get
our
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> learner's
> > >> >> >> >> >> > permits
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> medical certificates, which were required to
> > > operate
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> > >> >> >> > big
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> eighteen
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> wheelers.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    The next week was range training.  We
learned
> > > all
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> manner
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> backing.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Backing was not like backing a car.  It
required
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> whole
> > >> >> >> >> >> > different
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> twist.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> To back a truck to the right one must turn
the
> > > wheel
> > >> > to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> > >> >> >> >> > left
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> until
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> truck jacks to the right.  Then you turn the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> wheel
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
> > >> >> > the
> > >> >> >> >> > right
> > >> >> >> >> >> > to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> follow
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the trailer and keep it on the right path.
Even
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> backing
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
> > >> >> >> > a
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> straight
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> line
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was difficult.  But we learned our required
> > > backing
> > >> >> > skills
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> during
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> second
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> week and went on for the road training.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    We drove all over western Tennessee,
eastern
> > >> >> > Arkansas,
> > >> >> >> > and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> northern
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Mississippi.  To the end of the third week we
> > >> > completed
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> our
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> training
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> passed our road tests.  When we returned to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> school
> > >> > the
> > >> >> >> >> > following
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> week,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> we
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were taken to the DMV to get our Class A
> > > commercial
> > >> >> >> > driver's
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> licenses
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> late we were assigned to a driver who would
train
> > > us
> > >> >> > while
> > >> >> >> > we
> > >> >> >> >> >> > were
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> actually
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> transporting goods all over the country.  We
were
> > >> > paid
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> only
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> fifty
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> dollars
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> per day while we trained regardless of the
miles
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driven.
> > >> >> >> >> > Since
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driver
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> often drives between four and five hundred
miles
> > > per
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> shift,
> > >> >> >> >> > that
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> amounts to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> as little as ten cents per mile or less.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    These three weeks of driver training was
done
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and a
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> legal requirement that you repay the company
for
> > > the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> training.
> > >> >> >> >> >> > Of
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> course,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they pro-rated the cost over two years and
made
> > > the
> > >> >> >> > payments
> > >> >> >> >> > for
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> your
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> as
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> long as you worked for them.  But if you
found it
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> necessary
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> leave,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were on the hook for the pro-rated part of
the
> > > money
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you
> > >> >> >> > owe.
> > >> >> >> >> >> > This
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> makes it
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> difficult to leave if you are unhappy with
the
> > >> > working
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> situation.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    After I completed the training with my
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> instructor,
> > >> > I
> > >> >> >> > began
> > >> >> >> >> > to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> learn
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> things I never knew.  I knew that truck
drivers
> > > were
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> typically
> > >> >> >> >> >> > away
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> from
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> home for months at a time.  I never knew that
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they
> > >> > are
> > >> >> > not
> > >> >> >> >> >> > covered
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> by
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> wage and hour laws (overtime?  What is
that?).
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Truck
> > >> >> >> > drivers
> > >> >> >> >> >> > don't
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> get
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> overtime even though they constantly work in
> > > excess
> > >> > of
> > >> >> >> > sixty
> > >> >> >> >> >> > hours
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> per
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> week.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> They get paid for the miles they drive and
(on
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> occasion)
> > >> >> >> > for
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> loading
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> or
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> unloading a truck, not for the time they
work.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Many responsibilities that truck drivers
> > > perform
> > >> > are
> > >> >> >> >> > without
> > >> >> >> >> >> > any
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation.  The Department of
Transportation
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> requires
> > >> >> >> > that
> > >> >> >> >> >> > they
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> perform a
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> complete and thorough pre-trip safety
inspection
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> each
> > >> >> > day,
> > >> >> >> >> > which
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> takes
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> fifteen minutes of their time.  They receive
no
> > >> >> >> > compensation
> > >> >> >> >> > for
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> their
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> time
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to perform this.  When they weigh and balance
a
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> truck
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
> > >> >> >> > make
> > >> >> >> >> >> > sure
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> load
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> is legal on the highway, they receive no
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation
> > >> >> > for
> > >> >> >> >> > that,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> either.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    When they hitch or unhitch a trailer, they
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> receive
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that task.  When a shipper or receiver makes
them
> > >> > stand
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> around
> > >> >> >> >> >> > and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> wait
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> their load to be loaded or unloaded from a
> > > trailer,
> > >> > the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driver
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> receives
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation for the time he is there idle
while
> > > the
> > >> >> >> > shipper
> > >> >> >> >> > or
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> receiver
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> focuses on other things (unless he is paid
for
> > >> > loading
> > >> >> > or
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> unloading,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> which
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> isn't often).
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    And the driver is never guaranteed to get
a
> > >> > shipment
> > >> >> > to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> move.  There
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were a number of times where I sat at a truck
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> stop
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
> > >> > a
> > >> >> >> >> > strange
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> city
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with no
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> load.  Our company compensated us forty
dollars
> > > per
> > >> > day
> > >> >> > if
> > >> >> >> >> > they
> > >> >> >> >> >> > had
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> no
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> load
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> for us.  Imagine that, only forty dollars for
a
> > >> > single
> > >> >> > day
> > >> >> >> > of
> > >> >> >> >> >> > your
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> life
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not all drivers even get that) away from your
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> family,
> > >> >> >> >> > community,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> friends.  And the per mile rates for new
drivers
> > > are
> > >> >> > very
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> low.
> > >> >> >> >> >> > One
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> asked to pick up a trailer, weigh it to make
sure
> > > it
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
> > >> >> >> >> > legally
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> balanced,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and transport it to the nearest company
terminal
> > > for
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> reassignment to another driver.  For my
several
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hours
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> work,
> > >> >> >> >> > I
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> received
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> approximately twelve dollars for my efforts.
It
> > >> >> > amounted
> > >> >> >> > to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> less
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> than
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> minimum wage.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Truck drivers get no respect.  Once when I
was
> > > at
> > >> > a
> > >> >> >> >> > truckstop
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> near
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Canadian border in Maine, a driver told me
that
> > > his
> > >> > CB
> > >> >> >> > handle
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'Caucasian
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> scumbag'.  He said that he chose that handle
> > > because
> > >> > of
> > >> >> >> > what
> > >> >> >> >> > his
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> father
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (also a truck driver) told him.  Truck
driving is
> > > an
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> honorable
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> profession,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> but you will never get any respect.  Sadly, I
> > > found
> > >> >> > myself
> > >> >> >> >> >> > agreeing
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> him.  A few examples follow.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Once I made a delivery at a warehouse.
After
> > >> >> > 'bumping
> > >> >> >> > the
> > >> >> >> >> >> > dock'
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> (an
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> expression used that means you have parked
the
> > >> > trailer
> > >> >> > at
> > >> >> >> > the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> loading
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> dock
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> so it can be loaded or unloaded), I found a
door
> > >> > marked
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'driver's
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> entrance'.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> When I stepped inside the door, I found
myself
> > >> > standing
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> inside
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
> > >> >> >> >> >> > a
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> cage
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (subhuman treatment).
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    I once made a pickup at a major customer.
As
> > > my
> > >> >> > hours
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> were
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> almost
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> used
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> up when I made the pickup, I parked the truck
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> outside
> > >> >> > the
> > >> >> >> >> > front
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gate
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> in
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> area where truckers were allowed to park and
get
> > > the
> > >> >> >> > required
> > >> >> >> >> >> > time
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> sleeper before they were allowed to drive
again.
> > >> > When
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
> > >> >> >> >> > walked
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> back
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gate requesting to use the restroom, they
refused
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> saying
> > >> >> >> > that
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> driver's
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> weren't allowed to use the restrooms in the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> facility.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I
> > >> >> >> > had
> > >> >> >> >> > to
> > >> >> >> >> >> > go
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> relieve myself in the middle of an open field
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> because
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> there
> > >> >> >> >> > was
> > >> >> >> >> >> > no
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> other
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> place provided for the drivers.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    People often feel anger towards truck
drivers
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> because
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
> > >> >> >> >> > the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> manner
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> which they drive on the open highways.  I did
not
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> engage
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> in
> > >> >> >> >> > such
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driving and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> I did not approve of those who did.  But
think of
> > >> > what
> > >> >> > it
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> cost
> > >> >> >> >> >> > me.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Slowing
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> down reduced the amount of money I made.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Remember
> > >> > that
> > >> >> >> > many
> > >> >> >> >> > of
> > >> >> >> >> >> > the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> lesser
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> experienced drivers are not all that well
paid
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> (contrary
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
> > >> >> >> >> > the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> stories
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> about how well truck drivers are paid).  When
you
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> are
> > >> >> > paid
> > >> >> >> > by
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> mile
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> at
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> such a rate as twenty-seven cents a mile and
only
> > >> >> > allowed
> > >> >> >> > to
> > >> >> >> >> >> > drive
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> for
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> limited number of hours, making more money
> > > requires
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that
> > >> >> >> > you
> > >> >> >> >> >> > floor
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> it.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> When
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a driver is caught in a traffic jam, he is
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> sitting
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> there
> > >> >> >> >> > burning
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> his
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> driving
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hours and getting no compensation for it.  He
> > > cannot
> > >> >> > drive
> > >> >> >> >> > extra
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> hours
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> make up for it or the Department of
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Transportation
> > >> > will
> > >> >> >> > fine
> > >> >> >> >> > him
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> when
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> audit his driving logbook.  To that end, some
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> drivers
> > >> >> >> > falsify
> > >> >> >> >> >> > their
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> logbook
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to drive more miles.  This means that they
are
> > >> > driving
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> over
> > >> >> >> >> > the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> number
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> of
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hours it is safe for a person's body to be
alert
> > >> > enough
> > >> >> > to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> handle
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> eighty-thousand pound multi-vehicle truck and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> creates
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
> > >> >> >> >> >> > additional
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hazard.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Truck drivers would like to see that
changed,
> > > but
> > >> >> > it's
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> difficult.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'Over
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the road' drivers are away from home for
months
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> at
> > > a
> > >> >> > time.
> > >> >> >> >> >> > Because
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> of
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they don't get to vote.  Politicians look at
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> those
> > >> >> >> > statistics
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> they
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> realize that spending time helping truck
drivers
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> does
> > >> >> > not
> > >> >> >> >> > yield
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> them
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> additional votes.  This does not motivate the
> > >> >> > politicians
> > >> >> >> > to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> make
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> things any
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> easier for them.  Once, a driver told me that
he
> > > had
> > >> >> > tried
> > >> >> >> > to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> get
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> an
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> absentee ballot.  He was asked where he'd be
on
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> election
> > >> >> >> > day.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> He
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> told
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> them
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> he had no way of knowing because he was sent
to
> > >> >> > different
> > >> >> >> >> > places
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> often
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> on
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> only a few hours notice.  Because he couldn't
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> tell
> > >> > them
> > >> >> >> > where
> > >> >> >> >> >> > he'd
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> be
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> on
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> election day, they denied him an absentee
ballot.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    As long as we continue to pay our over the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> road
> > >> >> > drivers
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> 'by
> > >> >> >> >> >> > the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> mile'
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> instead of by the hour and pay them for the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> things
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> truck
> > >> >> >> >> > drivers
> > >> >> >> >> >> > do
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> for
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> no
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> compensation every day, the way many truck
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> drivers
> > >> >> > operate
> > >> >> >> >> > their
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> vehicles is
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not going to change.  There is significant
> > >> > legislative
> > >> >> >> > reform
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> needed
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> but no
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> political incentive to perform it.  And many
of
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> these
> > >> >> > good
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> people
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> continue
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> to suffer while making a living to support
their
> > >> >> > families
> > >> >> >> >> > (with
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> whom
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> they
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> are able to spend very little time with).
The
> > > next
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> time
> > >> >> >> > you
> > >> >> >> >> >> > enjoy
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> your
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> breakfast, buy nice new clothes at the store,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> fill
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> up
> > >> >> > your
> > >> >> >> >> > tank
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> with
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gasoline, or partake of any number of other
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> countless
> > >> >> >> > things,
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> should
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> remember that truck drivers brought those
> > > materials
> > >> > to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> you.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    Imagine if the trucks stopped rolling for
a
> > > week.
> > >> >> > We'd
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> experience
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> gas
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> shortages, food shortages, and have to learn
to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> do
> > >> >> > without
> > >> >> >> >> > many
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> things.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    When a driver is involved in a traffic
> > > accident,
> > >> > it
> > >> >> >> > isn't
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> whether
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> or
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> he is at fault that matters.  You may have
run
> > > into
> > >> > him
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> but
> > >> >> >> >> > the
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> question is
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> could he have done something to prevent it
from
> > >> >> > happening?
> > >> >> >> >> > Even
> > >> >> >> >> >> > if
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> he
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> was
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> not at fault in the accident, it often is
still
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> reported
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> on
> > >> >> >> >> > his
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> driving
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> record as 'preventable' (which stacks against
him
> > >> > when
> > >> >> > his
> > >> >> >> >> >> > driving
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> record is
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> reviewed for insurance or for possible
employment
> > >> > with
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
> > >> >> >> >> >> > different
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> trucking
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> company).  Imagine that, you caused the
accident
> > > but
> > >> >> > they
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> hold
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> it
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> against
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> the truck driver anyway.  He is responsible
for
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> managing
> > >> >> >> >> > *your*
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> driving
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> safety habits.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    These dramatically under appreciated
people
> > > live
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
> > >> >> >> >> > lifestyle
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> that
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> I
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> don't understand how they continue to live
day in
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> and
> > >> >> > day
> > >> >> >> > out
> > >> >> >> >> >> > year
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> after
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> year.  Essentially they are slaves to our
system
> > > and
> > >> > we
> > >> >> >> >> > continue
> > >> >> >> >> >> > to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> take
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> advantage of them paying many of them low
wages
> > > and
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> working
> > >> >> >> >> > them
> > >> >> >> >> >> > at
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> a
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> schedule that would cause most of us to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> experience
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> complete
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> exhaustion.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>    My hat is off to them and I think about
them
> > > from
> > >> >> > time
> > >> >> >> > to
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> time.  God
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> bless our truck drivers.
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
_______________________________________________
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Rebels1972 mailing list
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> _______________________________________________
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Rebels1972 mailing list
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> > >> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> --
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Rick Peek
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Tech450 at gmail.com
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 mailing list
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 mailing list
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >>
> > >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >> >
> > >> >> >>
> > >> >> >>
> > >> >> >
> > >> >> >
> > >> >>
> > >> >>
> > >> >
> > >> >
> > >>
> > >>
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
> >
> > _______________________________________________
> > Rebels1972 mailing list
> > Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>



From Jdrtiger at aol.com  Fri Jun 16 08:55:57 2006
From: Jdrtiger at aol.com (Jdrtiger at aol.com)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 09:55:57 EDT
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
Message-ID: <328.5599fe4.31c4126d@aol.com>

Shazzam... it's time to move off the discussion of truckers.  My late  
precious maternal grandfather would say... "It's time to untie your horse  from the 
hitching post on this subject."  Anything else new with anyone  these days 
since the reunions?  Rain... man, do we need rain for the  agricultural industry 
here in central and south Alabama.  How praying for  the good Lord to send 
rain?!?  Now... I think we could all agree on  that.   John Dale
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From Jdrtiger at aol.com  Fri Jun 16 08:59:14 2006
From: Jdrtiger at aol.com (Jdrtiger at aol.com)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 09:59:14 EDT
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
Message-ID: <4fc.1af3dd.31c41332@aol.com>

Yikes... my grammar and my typing to fast before actually reading  it!   LOL  
 Mrs. Pruett and Mrs. McAlpine would be  sooooooooo ashamed of me.   How 
ABOUT praying for the good Lord to  send rain?!?
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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Fri Jun 16 09:39:13 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 07:39:13 -0700
Subject: [Rebels1972] Figurines
Message-ID: <20060616073913.CB44AE8D@resin04.mta.everyone.net>

Folks, 

     Has anyone received their figurine ordered at the Reunion?  The check I gave them cleared today and I haven't seen it.  

     It may just be that they are still working on it.  

     Regards, 



                                             Fred 


From unkidale at coosahs.net  Fri Jun 16 11:41:21 2006
From: unkidale at coosahs.net (Dale Cooper)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 10:41:21 -0600
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <328.5599fe4.31c4126d@aol.com>
Message-ID: <002001c69163$b30c85d0$3d02a8c0@flashy>

Your Right , John Dale. BUT, I  tried not to get into this discussion but cannot ignore it anymore.  I have traveled on the stretch of highway
on I 20, known as ( DEATH VALLEY ) 5 times a week for 10 years. From Pell City to B'ham & I always thank God when I arrive at work.
I cannot express in words, the depth of my disdain for Truckers. I mean MOST Truckers. I KNOW/ I LIVE IT !!!  Most of them go in excess
of 80 MPH. I have also been ran off the road countless  times. Tailgated in the middle lane  of a 3 lane  hwy.when the passing lane is open on the left lane.With thier headlights flashing in a rage to get me to move over. I have learned to move over. 
My first cousin, Jeffery Arlen Nunn was killed instantly when an 18 wheeler / speeding / in the rain / on 2 lane hwy 411/
 in North Gadsden. Why ? Tell My Uncle Kenneth Nunn how the poor trucker just had a bad day.Or tell Jeff's Widow / or His Mother.
I will stop now. It's hard for a grown man to type with tears in his eyes. Later COOP !  ---- Original Message ----- 
  From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
  To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 7:55 AM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  Shazzam... it's time to move off the discussion of truckers.  My late precious maternal grandfather would say... "It's time to untie your horse from the hitching post on this subject."  Anything else new with anyone these days since the reunions?  Rain... man, do we need rain for the agricultural industry here in central and south Alabama.  How praying for the good Lord to send rain?!?  Now... I think we could all agree on that.   John Dale


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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Fri Jun 16 11:44:17 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 09:44:17 -0700
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
Message-ID: <20060616094417.CB4AB6AF@resin05.mta.everyone.net>

Dale, 

     It won't change until the economic slavery conditions end.  

     I'd like to see that happen.  

     Regards, 



                                          Fred 

--- unkidale at coosahs.net wrote:

From: "Dale Cooper" <unkidale at coosahs.net>
To: "Sansom Class of 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 10:41:21 -0600

Your Right , John Dale. BUT, I  tried not to get into this discussion but cannot ignore it anymore.  I have traveled on the stretch of highway
on I 20, known as ( DEATH VALLEY ) 5 times a week for 10 years. From Pell City to B'ham & I always thank God when I arrive at work.
I cannot express in words, the depth of my disdain for Truckers. I mean MOST Truckers. I KNOW/ I LIVE IT !!!  Most of them go in excess
of 80 MPH. I have also been ran off the road countless  times. Tailgated in the middle lane  of a 3 lane  hwy.when the passing lane is open on the left lane.With thier headlights flashing in a rage to get me to move over. I have learned to move over. 
My first cousin, Jeffery Arlen Nunn was killed instantly when an 18 wheeler / speeding / in the rain / on 2 lane hwy 411/
 in North Gadsden. Why ? Tell My Uncle Kenneth Nunn how the poor trucker just had a bad day.Or tell Jeff's Widow / or His Mother.
I will stop now. It's hard for a grown man to type with tears in his eyes. Later COOP !  ---- Original Message ----- 
  From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
  To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 7:55 AM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  Shazzam... it's time to move off the discussion of truckers.  My late precious maternal grandfather would say... "It's time to untie your horse from the hitching post on this subject."  Anything else new with anyone these days since the reunions?  Rain... man, do we need rain for the agricultural industry here in central and south Alabama.  How praying for the good Lord to send rain?!?  Now... I think we could all agree on that.   John Dale


------------------------------------------------------------------------------


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  Rebels1972 mailing list
  Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
  http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net

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From Jdrtiger at aol.com  Fri Jun 16 11:50:29 2006
From: Jdrtiger at aol.com (Jdrtiger at aol.com)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 12:50:29 EDT
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
Message-ID: <381.4dadd90.31c43b55@aol.com>

Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to  the reckless actions of a 
trucker. I have officiated many  funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry 
now.  The lost of a loved  one is very hard.  You never get totally over 
that.  I mourn  with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John  
Dale 
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From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Fri Jun 16 11:51:30 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 11:51:30 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <328.5599fe4.31c4126d@aol.com>
	<002001c69163$b30c85d0$3d02a8c0@flashy>
Message-ID: <00d501c69165$1ddb8d10$6101a8c0@Lauren>

Coop, I well remember when that happened and it was horrible.   It seems as though all of us have had bad experiences or still having them each day.
Maybe there's a lot to say for the signs around various towns---    Be a Professional Truck Driver in 3 Days!!
Stay safe out there on Death Valley.
Susan
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Dale Cooper 
  To: Sansom Class of 1972 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:41 AM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  Your Right , John Dale. BUT, I  tried not to get into this discussion but cannot ignore it anymore.  I have traveled on the stretch of highway
  on I 20, known as ( DEATH VALLEY ) 5 times a week for 10 years. From Pell City to B'ham & I always thank God when I arrive at work.
  I cannot express in words, the depth of my disdain for Truckers. I mean MOST Truckers. I KNOW/ I LIVE IT !!!  Most of them go in excess
  of 80 MPH. I have also been ran off the road countless  times. Tailgated in the middle lane  of a 3 lane  hwy.when the passing lane is open on the left lane.With thier headlights flashing in a rage to get me to move over. I have learned to move over. 
  My first cousin, Jeffery Arlen Nunn was killed instantly when an 18 wheeler / speeding / in the rain / on 2 lane hwy 411/
   in North Gadsden. Why ? Tell My Uncle Kenneth Nunn how the poor trucker just had a bad day.Or tell Jeff's Widow / or His Mother.
  I will stop now. It's hard for a grown man to type with tears in his eyes. Later COOP !  ---- Original Message ----- 
    From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
    To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 7:55 AM
    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


    Shazzam... it's time to move off the discussion of truckers.  My late precious maternal grandfather would say... "It's time to untie your horse from the hitching post on this subject."  Anything else new with anyone these days since the reunions?  Rain... man, do we need rain for the agricultural industry here in central and south Alabama.  How praying for the good Lord to send rain?!?  Now... I think we could all agree on that.   John Dale


----------------------------------------------------------------------------


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    Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
    http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net



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From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Fri Jun 16 11:56:36 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 11:56:36 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <20060616094417.CB4AB6AF@resin05.mta.everyone.net>
Message-ID: <00ef01c69165$d4331600$6101a8c0@Lauren>

Fred,
You have utilized that term economic slavery over and over. From what 
journal did you find it?

Susan

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
To: <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:44 AM
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


> Dale,
>
>     It won't change until the economic slavery conditions end.
>
>     I'd like to see that happen.
>
>     Regards,
>
>
>
>                                          Fred
>
> --- unkidale at coosahs.net wrote:
>
> From: "Dale Cooper" <unkidale at coosahs.net>
> To: "Sansom Class of 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
> Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 10:41:21 -0600
>
> Your Right , John Dale. BUT, I  tried not to get into this discussion but 
> cannot ignore it anymore.  I have traveled on the stretch of highway
> on I 20, known as ( DEATH VALLEY ) 5 times a week for 10 years. From Pell 
> City to B'ham & I always thank God when I arrive at work.
> I cannot express in words, the depth of my disdain for Truckers. I mean 
> MOST Truckers. I KNOW/ I LIVE IT !!!  Most of them go in excess
> of 80 MPH. I have also been ran off the road countless  times. Tailgated 
> in the middle lane  of a 3 lane  hwy.when the passing lane is open on the 
> left lane.With thier headlights flashing in a rage to get me to move over. 
> I have learned to move over.
> My first cousin, Jeffery Arlen Nunn was killed instantly when an 18 
> wheeler / speeding / in the rain / on 2 lane hwy 411/
> in North Gadsden. Why ? Tell My Uncle Kenneth Nunn how the poor trucker 
> just had a bad day.Or tell Jeff's Widow / or His Mother.
> I will stop now. It's hard for a grown man to type with tears in his eyes. 
> Later COOP !  ---- Original Message ----- 
>  From: Jdrtiger at aol.com
>  To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 7:55 AM
>  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
>
>
>  Shazzam... it's time to move off the discussion of truckers.  My late 
> precious maternal grandfather would say... "It's time to untie your horse 
> from the hitching post on this subject."  Anything else new with anyone 
> these days since the reunions?  Rain... man, do we need rain for the 
> agricultural industry here in central and south Alabama.  How praying for 
> the good Lord to send rain?!?  Now... I think we could all agree on that. 
> John Dale
>
>
> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
>
>
>  _______________________________________________
>  Rebels1972 mailing list
>  Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>  http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> 




From tonynichols at bellsouth.net  Fri Jun 16 12:17:13 2006
From: tonynichols at bellsouth.net (Tony Nichols)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 12:17:13 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] (no subject)
Message-ID: <001801c69168$b84984d0$fa01a8c0@TonysM55>

Fred,

 

I don't think you draw any support for having the government pass any laws
to mandate wages for any class of occupation.  Anytime the government gets
involved, they screw things up.

 

Every profession has its problems.  Many doctors go to school until they are
35 years old or more.  You would think that that is why they make the big
bucks.  However, many talented people are now choosing not to pursue a
career in medicine because doctors are finding it harder to make a living
due to the cost of insurance.  When enough people decide not to pursue
medicine and there is a shortage of good doctors, things may change for the
better.  However, it will not be the government that fixes it.  The problem
is with the law-suit happy American public that wants something for nothing.
Our government makes them think that they have more rights than they have.

 

I had a customer complain yesterday because I warned him that there would be
a $150 charge for travel time on his out-of-town job.  I just explained that
I was sorry but I couldn't accept work without being adequately compensated
for it.  I have quit other jobs because I felt I was due more that the
company was willing to pay.

 

It kind of reminds me of the doctor who complained about a service bill that
he had received from his plumber.  He said, "I'm a doctor and I don't even
make that kind of money."  The plumber replied, "Neither did I when I was a
doctor."

 

You just have to decide whether the pay is worth your effort and if it is
not, refuse to do the job.  I have considered being a teacher myself because
I like kids so much.  However, if I did decide to pursue a teaching career,
I would need to do so with the knowledge that teachers are underpaid and
that is a fact of life.  It is a calling,...kind of like the ministry is to
the minister.

 

Anytime I hear a really good guitar player, I wish that I could play like
that.  The dumb thing is that I could play like that if only I would
practice.  Most people find a way to achieve the things that are REALLY
important to them.  If a person wants out of being a truck driver, bad
enough, he'll find a way to get the life he wants.  Most people enslave
themselves.

 

My 3-4 cents worth,

 

Tony

 

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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Fri Jun 16 12:24:00 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 13:24:00 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <381.4dadd90.31c43b55@aol.com>
Message-ID: <009201c69169$a88e27c0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

Dale, 

    I am, too.  

    Regards, 



                                                                                Fred 
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
  To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John Dale 


------------------------------------------------------------------------------


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  Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
  http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Fri Jun 16 12:33:02 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 13:33:02 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] (no subject)
References: <001801c69168$b84984d0$fa01a8c0@TonysM55>
Message-ID: <00db01c6916a$eb9ccac0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

Tony, 

    What's so wrong with including the truckers in the same wage laws that the rest of us enjoy?  They seem to be the only folks that don't get that same protection.  As I previously pointed out, wage and hour does not apply to them.  But those of us who daily enjoy the fruits of their work are protected by it.  

    And what is so wrong with making it possible for them to get absentee ballots so they are respresented with the rest of us?  

    You aren't held into contracts where you have to repay thousands of dollars for training when you are getting low pay to begin with.  Try to interview for a job with a different line of work when you don't know where you are going to be the next day and don't have leeway to keep going to different interviews because you have little control over your schedule.  I found myself in that boat during the recent economic times.  

    You know, I'd have said the same things you are saying before I spent a year working as a trucker.  You stereotype a group and there is nothing good about them.  But once you are out there among these people and see the conditions they live and work under, and the caliber of people that many of them are, your views change dramatically.  It happened to me.  

    Regards, 



                                                                                                        Fred 

  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Tony Nichols 
  To: 'Sansom Class of 1972' 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 1:17 PM
  Subject: [Rebels1972] (no subject)


  Fred,

   

  I don't think you draw any support for having the government pass any laws to mandate wages for any class of occupation.  Anytime the government gets involved, they screw things up.

   

  Every profession has its problems.  Many doctors go to school until they are 35 years old or more.  You would think that that is why they make the big bucks.  However, many talented people are now choosing not to pursue a career in medicine because doctors are finding it harder to make a living due to the cost of insurance.  When enough people decide not to pursue medicine and there is a shortage of good doctors, things may change for the better.  However, it will not be the government that fixes it.  The problem is with the law-suit happy American public that wants something for nothing.  Our government makes them think that they have more rights than they have.

   

  I had a customer complain yesterday because I warned him that there would be a $150 charge for travel time on his out-of-town job.  I just explained that I was sorry but I couldn't accept work without being adequately compensated for it.  I have quit other jobs because I felt I was due more that the company was willing to pay.

   

  It kind of reminds me of the doctor who complained about a service bill that he had received from his plumber.  He said, "I'm a doctor and I don't even make that kind of money."  The plumber replied, "Neither did I when I was a doctor."

   

  You just have to decide whether the pay is worth your effort and if it is not, refuse to do the job.  I have considered being a teacher myself because I like kids so much.  However, if I did decide to pursue a teaching career, I would need to do so with the knowledge that teachers are underpaid and that is a fact of life.  It is a calling,...kind of like the ministry is to the minister.

   

  Anytime I hear a really good guitar player, I wish that I could play like that.  The dumb thing is that I could play like that if only I would practice.  Most people find a way to achieve the things that are REALLY important to them.  If a person wants out of being a truck driver, bad enough, he'll find a way to get the life he wants.  Most people enslave themselves.

   

  My 3-4 cents worth,

   

  Tony

   



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From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Fri Jun 16 12:41:28 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 12:41:28 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <20060616094417.CB4AB6AF@resin05.mta.everyone.net>
	<00ef01c69165$d4331600$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<00b001c69169$f6c950e0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
Message-ID: <011801c6916c$1918f7c0$6101a8c0@Lauren>

Didn't you read the other email?

Most people enslave themselves......
        Tony Nichols






----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
To: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:26 PM
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


> Susan,
>
>    Didn't you study the effects after the Emancipation Proclamation?
>
>    That's how the kept the emancipated slaves in bondage after they were
> freed.  They managed to get them indebted and wouldn't let them get out of
> debt.  As long as they had an obligation, they couldn't go free and had to
> do the bidding of their debtors.
>
>    American history.
>
>    Regards,
>
>
>
>
> Fred
>
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: <machen2081 at bellsouth.net>
> To: <fatkinson at mishmash.com>; "Sansom Class of 1972"
> <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:56 PM
> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
>
>
>> Fred,
>> You have utilized that term economic slavery over and over. From what
>> journal did you find it?
>>
>> Susan
>>
>> ----- Original Message -----
>> From: "Fred Atkinson" <fatkinson at mishmash.com>
>> To: <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:44 AM
>> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
>>
>>
>> > Dale,
>> >
>> >     It won't change until the economic slavery conditions end.
>> >
>> >     I'd like to see that happen.
>> >
>> >     Regards,
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> >                                          Fred
>> >
>> > --- unkidale at coosahs.net wrote:
>> >
>> > From: "Dale Cooper" <unkidale at coosahs.net>
>> > To: "Sansom Class of 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
>> > Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
>> > Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 10:41:21 -0600
>> >
>> > Your Right , John Dale. BUT, I  tried not to get into this discussion
> but
>> > cannot ignore it anymore.  I have traveled on the stretch of highway
>> > on I 20, known as ( DEATH VALLEY ) 5 times a week for 10 years. From
> Pell
>> > City to B'ham & I always thank God when I arrive at work.
>> > I cannot express in words, the depth of my disdain for Truckers. I mean
>> > MOST Truckers. I KNOW/ I LIVE IT !!!  Most of them go in excess
>> > of 80 MPH. I have also been ran off the road countless  times. 
>> > Tailgated
>> > in the middle lane  of a 3 lane  hwy.when the passing lane is open on
> the
>> > left lane.With thier headlights flashing in a rage to get me to move
> over.
>> > I have learned to move over.
>> > My first cousin, Jeffery Arlen Nunn was killed instantly when an 18
>> > wheeler / speeding / in the rain / on 2 lane hwy 411/
>> > in North Gadsden. Why ? Tell My Uncle Kenneth Nunn how the poor trucker
>> > just had a bad day.Or tell Jeff's Widow / or His Mother.
>> > I will stop now. It's hard for a grown man to type with tears in his
> eyes.
>> > Later COOP !  ---- Original Message -----
>> >  From: Jdrtiger at aol.com
>> >  To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 7:55 AM
>> >  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
>> >
>> >
>> >  Shazzam... it's time to move off the discussion of truckers.  My late
>> > precious maternal grandfather would say... "It's time to untie your
> horse
>> > from the hitching post on this subject."  Anything else new with anyone
>> > these days since the reunions?  Rain... man, do we need rain for the
>> > agricultural industry here in central and south Alabama.  How praying
> for
>> > the good Lord to send rain?!?  Now... I think we could all agree on
> that.
>> > John Dale
>> >
>> >
>>
>> --------------------------------------------------------------------------
> ----
>> >
>> >
>> >  _______________________________________________
>> >  Rebels1972 mailing list
>> >  Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> >  http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >
>> > _______________________________________________
>> > Rebels1972 mailing list
>> > Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >
>> >
>> > _______________________________________________
>> > Rebels1972 mailing list
>> > Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
>> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>> >
>>
>>
>
> 




From unkidale at coosahs.net  Fri Jun 16 12:55:08 2006
From: unkidale at coosahs.net (Dale Cooper)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 11:55:08 -0600
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <381.4dadd90.31c43b55@aol.com>
	<009201c69169$a88e27c0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
Message-ID: <002601c6916e$01cfe630$3d02a8c0@flashy>

Im Sorry Guys, Just had to vent a little bit. Just remember,  The Truckers are the biggest bullys on the playground ! Do not let road rage get you into trouble.Stay out of their way as much as you can. Save your obscene gestures for someone with a ( handicap ) sticker ! Just kidding. A little.
 COOP !  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Fred Atkinson 
  To: Sansom Class of 1972 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:24 AM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  Dale, 

      I am, too.  

      Regards, 



                                                                                  Fred 
    ----- Original Message ----- 
    From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
    To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM
    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


    Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John Dale 


----------------------------------------------------------------------------


    _______________________________________________
    Rebels1972 mailing list
    Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
    http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net



------------------------------------------------------------------------------


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  Rebels1972 mailing list
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From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Fri Jun 16 13:00:48 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 13:00:48 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <381.4dadd90.31c43b55@aol.com><009201c69169$a88e27c0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<002601c6916e$01cfe630$3d02a8c0@flashy>
Message-ID: <014d01c6916e$cc4a2880$6101a8c0@Lauren>

I'm in total agreement with you Coop. I try to stay out of their way but most of the time I can't. They won't let you-----in a hurry to stock those grocery shelves you know!!
Susan
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Dale Cooper 
  To: Sansom Class of 1972 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:55 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  Im Sorry Guys, Just had to vent a little bit. Just remember,  The Truckers are the biggest bullys on the playground ! Do not let road rage get you into trouble.Stay out of their way as much as you can. Save your obscene gestures for someone with a ( handicap ) sticker ! Just kidding. A little.
   COOP !  ----- Original Message ----- 
    From: Fred Atkinson 
    To: Sansom Class of 1972 
    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:24 AM
    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


    Dale, 

        I am, too.  

        Regards, 



                                                                                    Fred 
      ----- Original Message ----- 
      From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
      To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
      Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM
      Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


      Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John Dale 


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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Fri Jun 16 13:35:05 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 14:35:05 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <381.4dadd90.31c43b55@aol.com><009201c69169$a88e27c0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<002601c6916e$01cfe630$3d02a8c0@flashy>
Message-ID: <002201c69173$989a6680$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

Coop, 

    Truckers like you describe are in the minority.  

    But like any other profession, there are bad apples.  

    No problem with venting.  I've been angry at more than one trucker.  One almost rear-ended my truck when I was going at legal speed coming off the Interstate on a clover leaf.  And he was screaming obscenities at me over the CB.  He was in a tanker truck, which is much easier to flip over than a standard eighteen wheeler.  

    I told him that I wouldn't engage him as he knew I was proper and he wasn't.  I told him what the truckers generally tell each other, 'Drive safely and have a nice day'.  That pretty much ended it.  

    Regards, 



                                                                                Fred 
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Dale Cooper 
  To: Sansom Class of 1972 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 1:55 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  Im Sorry Guys, Just had to vent a little bit. Just remember,  The Truckers are the biggest bullys on the playground ! Do not let road rage get you into trouble.Stay out of their way as much as you can. Save your obscene gestures for someone with a ( handicap ) sticker ! Just kidding. A little.
   COOP !  ----- Original Message ----- 
    From: Fred Atkinson 
    To: Sansom Class of 1972 
    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:24 AM
    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


    Dale, 

        I am, too.  

        Regards, 



                                                                                    Fred 
      ----- Original Message ----- 
      From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
      To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
      Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM
      Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


      Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John Dale 


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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Fri Jun 16 13:37:59 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 14:37:59 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <381.4dadd90.31c43b55@aol.com><009201c69169$a88e27c0$c80a0a0a@mishmash><002601c6916e$01cfe630$3d02a8c0@flashy>
	<014d01c6916e$cc4a2880$6101a8c0@Lauren>
Message-ID: <002f01c69173$fea105b0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

Well, Susan, 

    I say stay away from them because what if some other motorist (of the four wheel type, for example) turns in front of him and he needs to swing left or right to keep from wiping that person out (once, two pickup trucks turned diagonally and less than thirty feet in front of me at the exit on an Interstate in New Jersey.  I didn't miss hitting them by much).  They were flooring it.  

    We could talk about the four wheel type of driver, too.  And I could say some things there.  

    Regards, 



                                                                                        Fred  
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 
  To: Sansom Class of 1972 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:00 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  I'm in total agreement with you Coop. I try to stay out of their way but most of the time I can't. They won't let you-----in a hurry to stock those grocery shelves you know!!
  Susan
    ----- Original Message ----- 
    From: Dale Cooper 
    To: Sansom Class of 1972 
    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:55 PM
    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


    Im Sorry Guys, Just had to vent a little bit. Just remember,  The Truckers are the biggest bullys on the playground ! Do not let road rage get you into trouble.Stay out of their way as much as you can. Save your obscene gestures for someone with a ( handicap ) sticker ! Just kidding. A little.
     COOP !  ----- Original Message ----- 
      From: Fred Atkinson 
      To: Sansom Class of 1972 
      Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:24 AM
      Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


      Dale, 

          I am, too.  

          Regards, 



                                                                                      Fred 
        ----- Original Message ----- 
        From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
        To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
        Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM
        Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


        Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John Dale 


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From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Fri Jun 16 13:48:20 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 13:48:20 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <381.4dadd90.31c43b55@aol.com><009201c69169$a88e27c0$c80a0a0a@mishmash><002601c6916e$01cfe630$3d02a8c0@flashy><014d01c6916e$cc4a2880$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<002f01c69173$fea105b0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
Message-ID: <021801c69175$709d5c80$6101a8c0@Lauren>

Yea you could but save your breath....  I think you're such a safe trucker that you need to resign from that teaching position and resume driving. We need safe drivers.  Sounds like you loved it and what an advocate you would be!!!  
Susan
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Fred Atkinson 
  To: Sansom Class of 1972 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 1:37 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  Well, Susan, 

      I say stay away from them because what if some other motorist (of the four wheel type, for example) turns in front of him and he needs to swing left or right to keep from wiping that person out (once, two pickup trucks turned diagonally and less than thirty feet in front of me at the exit on an Interstate in New Jersey.  I didn't miss hitting them by much).  They were flooring it.  

      We could talk about the four wheel type of driver, too.  And I could say some things there.  

      Regards, 



                                                                                          Fred  
    ----- Original Message ----- 
    From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 
    To: Sansom Class of 1972 
    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:00 PM
    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


    I'm in total agreement with you Coop. I try to stay out of their way but most of the time I can't. They won't let you-----in a hurry to stock those grocery shelves you know!!
    Susan
      ----- Original Message ----- 
      From: Dale Cooper 
      To: Sansom Class of 1972 
      Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:55 PM
      Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


      Im Sorry Guys, Just had to vent a little bit. Just remember,  The Truckers are the biggest bullys on the playground ! Do not let road rage get you into trouble.Stay out of their way as much as you can. Save your obscene gestures for someone with a ( handicap ) sticker ! Just kidding. A little.
       COOP !  ----- Original Message ----- 
        From: Fred Atkinson 
        To: Sansom Class of 1972 
        Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:24 AM
        Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


        Dale, 

            I am, too.  

            Regards, 



                                                                                        Fred 
          ----- Original Message ----- 
          From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
          To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
          Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM
          Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


          Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John Dale 


----------------------------------------------------------------------


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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Fri Jun 16 14:06:50 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 15:06:50 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <381.4dadd90.31c43b55@aol.com><009201c69169$a88e27c0$c80a0a0a@mishmash><002601c6916e$01cfe630$3d02a8c0@flashy><014d01c6916e$cc4a2880$6101a8c0@Lauren><002f01c69173$fea105b0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<021801c69175$709d5c80$6101a8c0@Lauren>
Message-ID: <002001c69178$06165df0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

Susan, 

    I did love getting around and seeing this beautiful country of ours.  But I don't miss working sixty to seventy hours per week with no end in sight.  

    We all live a great lifestyle and we wouldn't have it without the efforts of those folks.  

    Regards, 



                                                                                        Fred 
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 
  To: Sansom Class of 1972 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:48 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  Yea you could but save your breath....  I think you're such a safe trucker that you need to resign from that teaching position and resume driving. We need safe drivers.  Sounds like you loved it and what an advocate you would be!!!  
  Susan
    ----- Original Message ----- 
    From: Fred Atkinson 
    To: Sansom Class of 1972 
    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 1:37 PM
    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


    Well, Susan, 

        I say stay away from them because what if some other motorist (of the four wheel type, for example) turns in front of him and he needs to swing left or right to keep from wiping that person out (once, two pickup trucks turned diagonally and less than thirty feet in front of me at the exit on an Interstate in New Jersey.  I didn't miss hitting them by much).  They were flooring it.  

        We could talk about the four wheel type of driver, too.  And I could say some things there.  

        Regards, 



                                                                                            Fred  
      ----- Original Message ----- 
      From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 
      To: Sansom Class of 1972 
      Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:00 PM
      Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


      I'm in total agreement with you Coop. I try to stay out of their way but most of the time I can't. They won't let you-----in a hurry to stock those grocery shelves you know!!
      Susan
        ----- Original Message ----- 
        From: Dale Cooper 
        To: Sansom Class of 1972 
        Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:55 PM
        Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


        Im Sorry Guys, Just had to vent a little bit. Just remember,  The Truckers are the biggest bullys on the playground ! Do not let road rage get you into trouble.Stay out of their way as much as you can. Save your obscene gestures for someone with a ( handicap ) sticker ! Just kidding. A little.
         COOP !  ----- Original Message ----- 
          From: Fred Atkinson 
          To: Sansom Class of 1972 
          Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:24 AM
          Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


          Dale, 

              I am, too.  

              Regards, 



                                                                                          Fred 
            ----- Original Message ----- 
            From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
            To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
            Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM
            Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


            Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John Dale 


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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Fri Jun 16 14:07:41 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 15:07:41 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <381.4dadd90.31c43b55@aol.com><009201c69169$a88e27c0$c80a0a0a@mishmash><002601c6916e$01cfe630$3d02a8c0@flashy><014d01c6916e$cc4a2880$6101a8c0@Lauren><002f01c69173$fea105b0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<021801c69175$709d5c80$6101a8c0@Lauren>
Message-ID: <001801c69178$24cd86b0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

Susan, 

    P. S..  You notice that a safe driver *is* off the road now because of the economics of the situation (me).  



                                                                                                    Fred 
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 
  To: Sansom Class of 1972 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:48 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  Yea you could but save your breath....  I think you're such a safe trucker that you need to resign from that teaching position and resume driving. We need safe drivers.  Sounds like you loved it and what an advocate you would be!!!  
  Susan
    ----- Original Message ----- 
    From: Fred Atkinson 
    To: Sansom Class of 1972 
    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 1:37 PM
    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


    Well, Susan, 

        I say stay away from them because what if some other motorist (of the four wheel type, for example) turns in front of him and he needs to swing left or right to keep from wiping that person out (once, two pickup trucks turned diagonally and less than thirty feet in front of me at the exit on an Interstate in New Jersey.  I didn't miss hitting them by much).  They were flooring it.  

        We could talk about the four wheel type of driver, too.  And I could say some things there.  

        Regards, 



                                                                                            Fred  
      ----- Original Message ----- 
      From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 
      To: Sansom Class of 1972 
      Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:00 PM
      Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


      I'm in total agreement with you Coop. I try to stay out of their way but most of the time I can't. They won't let you-----in a hurry to stock those grocery shelves you know!!
      Susan
        ----- Original Message ----- 
        From: Dale Cooper 
        To: Sansom Class of 1972 
        Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:55 PM
        Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


        Im Sorry Guys, Just had to vent a little bit. Just remember,  The Truckers are the biggest bullys on the playground ! Do not let road rage get you into trouble.Stay out of their way as much as you can. Save your obscene gestures for someone with a ( handicap ) sticker ! Just kidding. A little.
         COOP !  ----- Original Message ----- 
          From: Fred Atkinson 
          To: Sansom Class of 1972 
          Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:24 AM
          Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


          Dale, 

              I am, too.  

              Regards, 



                                                                                          Fred 
            ----- Original Message ----- 
            From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
            To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
            Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM
            Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


            Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John Dale 


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From unkidale at coosahs.net  Fri Jun 16 14:22:37 2006
From: unkidale at coosahs.net (Dale Cooper)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 13:22:37 -0600
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <381.4dadd90.31c43b55@aol.com><009201c69169$a88e27c0$c80a0a0a@mishmash><002601c6916e$01cfe630$3d02a8c0@flashy>
	<002201c69173$989a6680$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
Message-ID: <003f01c6917a$3a81a390$3d02a8c0@flashy>

Fred, What part of my email did you read ? Listen, I know / You Don't / The Truckers I drive with  E V E R Y   S I N G L E *&^%$#$%%^&@#@$%^&* Day Are The   MAJORITY !!!/ How can you question me ?  / Its my LIFE Im talking about./ Simple Fact/ Not My Opinion / regards, COOP !
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Fred Atkinson 
  To: Sansom Class of 1972 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:35 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  Coop, 

      Truckers like you describe are in the minority.  

      But like any other profession, there are bad apples.  

      No problem with venting.  I've been angry at more than one trucker.  One almost rear-ended my truck when I was going at legal speed coming off the Interstate on a clover leaf.  And he was screaming obscenities at me over the CB.  He was in a tanker truck, which is much easier to flip over than a standard eighteen wheeler.  

      I told him that I wouldn't engage him as he knew I was proper and he wasn't.  I told him what the truckers generally tell each other, 'Drive safely and have a nice day'.  That pretty much ended it.  

      Regards, 



                                                                                  Fred 
    ----- Original Message ----- 
    From: Dale Cooper 
    To: Sansom Class of 1972 
    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 1:55 PM
    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


    Im Sorry Guys, Just had to vent a little bit. Just remember,  The Truckers are the biggest bullys on the playground ! Do not let road rage get you into trouble.Stay out of their way as much as you can. Save your obscene gestures for someone with a ( handicap ) sticker ! Just kidding. A little.
     COOP !  ----- Original Message ----- 
      From: Fred Atkinson 
      To: Sansom Class of 1972 
      Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:24 AM
      Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


      Dale, 

          I am, too.  

          Regards, 



                                                                                      Fred 
        ----- Original Message ----- 
        From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
        To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
        Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM
        Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


        Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John Dale 


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From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Fri Jun 16 14:40:28 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 14:40:28 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <381.4dadd90.31c43b55@aol.com><009201c69169$a88e27c0$c80a0a0a@mishmash><002601c6916e$01cfe630$3d02a8c0@flashy><014d01c6916e$cc4a2880$6101a8c0@Lauren><002f01c69173$fea105b0$c80a0a0a@mishmash><021801c69175$709d5c80$6101a8c0@Lauren>
	<001801c69178$24cd86b0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
Message-ID: <02ec01c6917c$b962f400$6101a8c0@Lauren>

Hey Fred,
Doesn't the college hold you in economic slavery?  I know that Goodyear holds Russell in slavery and thank God for it. We can eat, pay our bills and live a nice life.
Susan
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Fred Atkinson 
  To: Sansom Class of 1972 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:07 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  Susan, 

      P. S..  You notice that a safe driver *is* off the road now because of the economics of the situation (me).  



                                                                                                      Fred 
    ----- Original Message ----- 
    From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 
    To: Sansom Class of 1972 
    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:48 PM
    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


    Yea you could but save your breath....  I think you're such a safe trucker that you need to resign from that teaching position and resume driving. We need safe drivers.  Sounds like you loved it and what an advocate you would be!!!  
    Susan
      ----- Original Message ----- 
      From: Fred Atkinson 
      To: Sansom Class of 1972 
      Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 1:37 PM
      Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


      Well, Susan, 

          I say stay away from them because what if some other motorist (of the four wheel type, for example) turns in front of him and he needs to swing left or right to keep from wiping that person out (once, two pickup trucks turned diagonally and less than thirty feet in front of me at the exit on an Interstate in New Jersey.  I didn't miss hitting them by much).  They were flooring it.  

          We could talk about the four wheel type of driver, too.  And I could say some things there.  

          Regards, 



                                                                                              Fred  
        ----- Original Message ----- 
        From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 
        To: Sansom Class of 1972 
        Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:00 PM
        Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


        I'm in total agreement with you Coop. I try to stay out of their way but most of the time I can't. They won't let you-----in a hurry to stock those grocery shelves you know!!
        Susan
          ----- Original Message ----- 
          From: Dale Cooper 
          To: Sansom Class of 1972 
          Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:55 PM
          Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


          Im Sorry Guys, Just had to vent a little bit. Just remember,  The Truckers are the biggest bullys on the playground ! Do not let road rage get you into trouble.Stay out of their way as much as you can. Save your obscene gestures for someone with a ( handicap ) sticker ! Just kidding. A little.
           COOP !  ----- Original Message ----- 
            From: Fred Atkinson 
            To: Sansom Class of 1972 
            Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:24 AM
            Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


            Dale, 

                I am, too.  

                Regards, 



                                                                                            Fred 
              ----- Original Message ----- 
              From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
              To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
              Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM
              Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


              Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John Dale 


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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Fri Jun 16 15:42:47 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 16:42:47 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <381.4dadd90.31c43b55@aol.com><009201c69169$a88e27c0$c80a0a0a@mishmash><002601c6916e$01cfe630$3d02a8c0@flashy><002201c69173$989a6680$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<003f01c6917a$3a81a390$3d02a8c0@flashy>
Message-ID: <001f01c69185$6e007740$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

Dale, 

    You're entitled to your opinion.  

    Not everyone is going to share it, though.  And that's OK.  

    Regards, 



                                                                        Fred 

  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Dale Cooper 
  To: Sansom Class of 1972 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 3:22 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  Fred, What part of my email did you read ? Listen, I know / You Don't / The Truckers I drive with  E V E R Y   S I N G L E *&^%$#$%%^&@#@$%^&* Day Are The   MAJORITY !!!/ How can you question me ?  / Its my LIFE Im talking about./ Simple Fact/ Not My Opinion / regards, COOP !
    ----- Original Message ----- 
    From: Fred Atkinson 
    To: Sansom Class of 1972 
    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:35 PM
    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


    Coop, 

        Truckers like you describe are in the minority.  

        But like any other profession, there are bad apples.  

        No problem with venting.  I've been angry at more than one trucker.  One almost rear-ended my truck when I was going at legal speed coming off the Interstate on a clover leaf.  And he was screaming obscenities at me over the CB.  He was in a tanker truck, which is much easier to flip over than a standard eighteen wheeler.  

        I told him that I wouldn't engage him as he knew I was proper and he wasn't.  I told him what the truckers generally tell each other, 'Drive safely and have a nice day'.  That pretty much ended it.  

        Regards, 



                                                                                    Fred 
      ----- Original Message ----- 
      From: Dale Cooper 
      To: Sansom Class of 1972 
      Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 1:55 PM
      Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


      Im Sorry Guys, Just had to vent a little bit. Just remember,  The Truckers are the biggest bullys on the playground ! Do not let road rage get you into trouble.Stay out of their way as much as you can. Save your obscene gestures for someone with a ( handicap ) sticker ! Just kidding. A little.
       COOP !  ----- Original Message ----- 
        From: Fred Atkinson 
        To: Sansom Class of 1972 
        Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:24 AM
        Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


        Dale, 

            I am, too.  

            Regards, 



                                                                                        Fred 
          ----- Original Message ----- 
          From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
          To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
          Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM
          Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


          Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John Dale 


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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Fri Jun 16 15:44:16 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 16:44:16 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <381.4dadd90.31c43b55@aol.com><009201c69169$a88e27c0$c80a0a0a@mishmash><002601c6916e$01cfe630$3d02a8c0@flashy><014d01c6916e$cc4a2880$6101a8c0@Lauren><002f01c69173$fea105b0$c80a0a0a@mishmash><021801c69175$709d5c80$6101a8c0@Lauren><001801c69178$24cd86b0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<02ec01c6917c$b962f400$6101a8c0@Lauren>
Message-ID: <004001c69185$a2be3490$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

Susan, 

    It's not the same thing.  He has a chance to move up, they don't get him into debt with them to get the training to do the job they want him to do.  

    I'll be that Russell quit now, he wouldn't have to pay them for his training.  

    Regards, 


        
                                                                                                Fred 

  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 
  To: Sansom Class of 1972 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 3:40 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  Hey Fred,
  Doesn't the college hold you in economic slavery?  I know that Goodyear holds Russell in slavery and thank God for it. We can eat, pay our bills and live a nice life.
  Susan
    ----- Original Message ----- 
    From: Fred Atkinson 
    To: Sansom Class of 1972 
    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:07 PM
    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


    Susan, 

        P. S..  You notice that a safe driver *is* off the road now because of the economics of the situation (me).  



                                                                                                        Fred 
      ----- Original Message ----- 
      From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 
      To: Sansom Class of 1972 
      Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:48 PM
      Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


      Yea you could but save your breath....  I think you're such a safe trucker that you need to resign from that teaching position and resume driving. We need safe drivers.  Sounds like you loved it and what an advocate you would be!!!  
      Susan
        ----- Original Message ----- 
        From: Fred Atkinson 
        To: Sansom Class of 1972 
        Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 1:37 PM
        Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


        Well, Susan, 

            I say stay away from them because what if some other motorist (of the four wheel type, for example) turns in front of him and he needs to swing left or right to keep from wiping that person out (once, two pickup trucks turned diagonally and less than thirty feet in front of me at the exit on an Interstate in New Jersey.  I didn't miss hitting them by much).  They were flooring it.  

            We could talk about the four wheel type of driver, too.  And I could say some things there.  

            Regards, 



                                                                                                Fred  
          ----- Original Message ----- 
          From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 
          To: Sansom Class of 1972 
          Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:00 PM
          Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


          I'm in total agreement with you Coop. I try to stay out of their way but most of the time I can't. They won't let you-----in a hurry to stock those grocery shelves you know!!
          Susan
            ----- Original Message ----- 
            From: Dale Cooper 
            To: Sansom Class of 1972 
            Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:55 PM
            Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


            Im Sorry Guys, Just had to vent a little bit. Just remember,  The Truckers are the biggest bullys on the playground ! Do not let road rage get you into trouble.Stay out of their way as much as you can. Save your obscene gestures for someone with a ( handicap ) sticker ! Just kidding. A little.
             COOP !  ----- Original Message ----- 
              From: Fred Atkinson 
              To: Sansom Class of 1972 
              Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:24 AM
              Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


              Dale, 

                  I am, too.  

                  Regards, 



                                                                                              Fred 
                ----- Original Message ----- 
                From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
                To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
                Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM
                Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


                Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John Dale 


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From tonynichols at bellsouth.net  Fri Jun 16 16:00:05 2006
From: tonynichols at bellsouth.net (Tony Nichols)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 16:00:05 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
In-Reply-To: <004001c69185$a2be3490$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
Message-ID: <009701c69187$d818bc30$fa01a8c0@TonysM55>

Fred,

 

No one has to agree to accept company paid training.  You can just finance
it your self or pay for it when you leave.  Put it on a no-interest credit
card and pay for it over a year.  Five thousand dollars will not enslave
anyone.  Gee, that's less than a couple months pay for the below-average
trucker.  Just about anyone could pay that off in a year if they scrimped
and saved a little.  By law, a trucking company would have to give an
employee the right to pay that training off.  It sounds to me like the
trucking companies did the truckers a favor by offering to pay for their
training.  Some people don't have the resources to come up with the money
for training.  However, that is not enslavement, that is a courtesy.

 

Tony

 

  _____  

From: rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net
[mailto:rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net] On Behalf Of Fred Atkinson
Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 3:44 PM
To: Sansom Class of 1972
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

 

Susan, 

 

    It's not the same thing.  He has a chance to move up, they don't get him
into debt with them to get the training to do the job they want him to do.  

 

    I'll be that Russell quit now, he wouldn't have to pay them for his
training.  

 

    Regards, 

 

 

        

 
Fred 

 

----- Original Message ----- 

From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 

To: Sansom Class of 1972 <mailto:rebels1972 at mishmash.net>  

Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 3:40 PM

Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

 

Hey Fred,

Doesn't the college hold you in economic slavery?  I know that Goodyear
holds Russell in slavery and thank God for it. We can eat, pay our bills and
live a nice life.

Susan

----- Original Message ----- 

From: Fred <mailto:fatkinson at mishmash.com>  Atkinson 

To: Sansom Class of 1972 <mailto:rebels1972 at mishmash.net>  

Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:07 PM

Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

 

Susan, 

 

    P. S..  You notice that a safe driver *is* off the road now because of
the economics of the situation (me).  

 

 

 

 
Fred 

----- Original Message ----- 

From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 

To: Sansom Class of 1972 <mailto:rebels1972 at mishmash.net>  

Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:48 PM

Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

 

Yea you could but save your breath....  I think you're such a safe trucker
that you need to resign from that teaching position and resume driving. We
need safe drivers.  Sounds like you loved it and what an advocate you would
be!!!  

Susan

----- Original Message ----- 

From: Fred <mailto:fatkinson at mishmash.com>  Atkinson 

To: Sansom Class of 1972 <mailto:rebels1972 at mishmash.net>  

Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 1:37 PM

Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

 

Well, Susan, 

 

    I say stay away from them because what if some other motorist (of the
four wheel type, for example) turns in front of him and he needs to swing
left or right to keep from wiping that person out (once, two pickup trucks
turned diagonally and less than thirty feet in front of me at the exit on an
Interstate in New Jersey.  I didn't miss hitting them by much).  They were
flooring it.  

 

    We could talk about the four wheel type of driver, too.  And I could say
some things there.  

 

    Regards, 

 

 

 

 
Fred  

----- Original Message ----- 

From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 

To: Sansom Class of 1972 <mailto:rebels1972 at mishmash.net>  

Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:00 PM

Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

 

I'm in total agreement with you Coop. I try to stay out of their way but
most of the time I can't. They won't let you-----in a hurry to stock those
grocery shelves you know!!

Susan

----- Original Message ----- 

From: Dale Cooper <mailto:unkidale at coosahs.net>  

To: Sansom Class of 1972 <mailto:rebels1972 at mishmash.net>  

Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:55 PM

Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

 

Im Sorry Guys, Just had to vent a little bit. Just remember,  The Truckers
are the biggest bullys on the playground ! Do not let road rage get you into
trouble.Stay out of their way as much as you can. Save your obscene gestures
for someone with a ( handicap ) sticker ! Just kidding. A little.

 COOP !  ----- Original Message ----- 

From: Fred <mailto:fatkinson at mishmash.com>  Atkinson 

To: Sansom Class of 1972 <mailto:rebels1972 at mishmash.net>  

Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:24 AM

Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

 

Dale, 

 

    I am, too.  

 

    Regards, 

 

 

 

 
Fred 

----- Original Message ----- 

From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 

To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 

Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM

Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

 

Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a
trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my
ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally
over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry
man.  John Dale 


  _____  


_______________________________________________
Rebels1972 mailing list
Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net


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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Fri Jun 16 16:13:47 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 17:13:47 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <009701c69187$d818bc30$fa01a8c0@TonysM55>
Message-ID: <001a01c69189$c24ad8f0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

Tony, 

    At the rate they pay those new truck drivers, I can't say I share that opinion.  

    They make it sound awfully good, that's what a sales pitch is supposed to do.  But it isn't as good as it sounds.  When one has found one has made some big mistakes, it isn't so easy to get out of the contract.  

    Regards, 



                                                                                    Fred 
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Tony Nichols 
  To: 'Sansom Class of 1972' 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 5:00 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  Fred,

   

  No one has to agree to accept company paid training.  You can just finance it your self or pay for it when you leave.  Put it on a no-interest credit card and pay for it over a year.  Five thousand dollars will not enslave anyone.  Gee, that's less than a couple months pay for the below-average trucker.  Just about anyone could pay that off in a year if they scrimped and saved a little.  By law, a trucking company would have to give an employee the right to pay that training off.  It sounds to me like the trucking companies did the truckers a favor by offering to pay for their training.  Some people don't have the resources to come up with the money for training.  However, that is not enslavement, that is a courtesy.

   

  Tony

   


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

  From: rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net [mailto:rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net] On Behalf Of Fred Atkinson
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 3:44 PM
  To: Sansom Class of 1972
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

   

  Susan, 

   

      It's not the same thing.  He has a chance to move up, they don't get him into debt with them to get the training to do the job they want him to do.  

   

      I'll be that Russell quit now, he wouldn't have to pay them for his training.  

   

      Regards, 

   

   

          

                                                                                                  Fred 

   

    ----- Original Message ----- 

    From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 

    To: Sansom Class of 1972 

    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 3:40 PM

    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

     

    Hey Fred,

    Doesn't the college hold you in economic slavery?  I know that Goodyear holds Russell in slavery and thank God for it. We can eat, pay our bills and live a nice life.

    Susan

      ----- Original Message ----- 

      From: Fred Atkinson 

      To: Sansom Class of 1972 

      Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:07 PM

      Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

       

      Susan, 

       

          P. S..  You notice that a safe driver *is* off the road now because of the economics of the situation (me).  

       

       

       

                                                                                                          Fred 

        ----- Original Message ----- 

        From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 

        To: Sansom Class of 1972 

        Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:48 PM

        Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

         

        Yea you could but save your breath....  I think you're such a safe trucker that you need to resign from that teaching position and resume driving. We need safe drivers.  Sounds like you loved it and what an advocate you would be!!!  

        Susan

          ----- Original Message ----- 

          From: Fred Atkinson 

          To: Sansom Class of 1972 

          Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 1:37 PM

          Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

           

          Well, Susan, 

           

              I say stay away from them because what if some other motorist (of the four wheel type, for example) turns in front of him and he needs to swing left or right to keep from wiping that person out (once, two pickup trucks turned diagonally and less than thirty feet in front of me at the exit on an Interstate in New Jersey.  I didn't miss hitting them by much).  They were flooring it.  

           

              We could talk about the four wheel type of driver, too.  And I could say some things there.  

           

              Regards, 

           

           

           

                                                                                                  Fred  

            ----- Original Message ----- 

            From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 

            To: Sansom Class of 1972 

            Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:00 PM

            Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

             

            I'm in total agreement with you Coop. I try to stay out of their way but most of the time I can't. They won't let you-----in a hurry to stock those grocery shelves you know!!

            Susan

              ----- Original Message ----- 

              From: Dale Cooper 

              To: Sansom Class of 1972 

              Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:55 PM

              Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

               

              Im Sorry Guys, Just had to vent a little bit. Just remember,  The Truckers are the biggest bullys on the playground ! Do not let road rage get you into trouble.Stay out of their way as much as you can. Save your obscene gestures for someone with a ( handicap ) sticker ! Just kidding. A little.

               COOP !  ----- Original Message ----- 

                From: Fred Atkinson 

                To: Sansom Class of 1972 

                Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:24 AM

                Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

                 

                Dale, 

                 

                    I am, too.  

                 

                    Regards, 

                 

                 

                 

                                                                                                Fred 

                  ----- Original Message ----- 

                  From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 

                  To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 

                  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM

                  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

                   

                  Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John Dale 


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From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Fri Jun 16 17:21:22 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 17:21:22 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <009701c69187$d818bc30$fa01a8c0@TonysM55>
	<001a01c69189$c24ad8f0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
Message-ID: <037801c69193$33586950$6101a8c0@Lauren>

I share Dale's opinions.  Obviously there's money in the trucking industry or most of the people wouldn't stay in for so long and make a career out of it.

Fred why don't you get on a worthwhile subject like the under paid, overworked teachers in America?

Like Tony said on an earlier email.....
Most people enslave themselves

Susan
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Fred Atkinson 
  To: Sansom Class of 1972 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 4:13 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  Tony, 

      At the rate they pay those new truck drivers, I can't say I share that opinion.  

      They make it sound awfully good, that's what a sales pitch is supposed to do.  But it isn't as good as it sounds.  When one has found one has made some big mistakes, it isn't so easy to get out of the contract.  

      Regards, 



                                                                                      Fred 
    ----- Original Message ----- 
    From: Tony Nichols 
    To: 'Sansom Class of 1972' 
    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 5:00 PM
    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


    Fred,

     

    No one has to agree to accept company paid training.  You can just finance it your self or pay for it when you leave.  Put it on a no-interest credit card and pay for it over a year.  Five thousand dollars will not enslave anyone.  Gee, that's less than a couple months pay for the below-average trucker.  Just about anyone could pay that off in a year if they scrimped and saved a little.  By law, a trucking company would have to give an employee the right to pay that training off.  It sounds to me like the trucking companies did the truckers a favor by offering to pay for their training.  Some people don't have the resources to come up with the money for training.  However, that is not enslavement, that is a courtesy.

     

    Tony

     


----------------------------------------------------------------------------

    From: rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net [mailto:rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net] On Behalf Of Fred Atkinson
    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 3:44 PM
    To: Sansom Class of 1972
    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

     

    Susan, 

     

        It's not the same thing.  He has a chance to move up, they don't get him into debt with them to get the training to do the job they want him to do.  

     

        I'll be that Russell quit now, he wouldn't have to pay them for his training.  

     

        Regards, 

     

     

            

                                                                                                    Fred 

     

      ----- Original Message ----- 

      From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 

      To: Sansom Class of 1972 

      Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 3:40 PM

      Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

       

      Hey Fred,

      Doesn't the college hold you in economic slavery?  I know that Goodyear holds Russell in slavery and thank God for it. We can eat, pay our bills and live a nice life.

      Susan

        ----- Original Message ----- 

        From: Fred Atkinson 

        To: Sansom Class of 1972 

        Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:07 PM

        Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

         

        Susan, 

         

            P. S..  You notice that a safe driver *is* off the road now because of the economics of the situation (me).  

         

         

         

                                                                                                            Fred 

          ----- Original Message ----- 

          From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 

          To: Sansom Class of 1972 

          Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:48 PM

          Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

           

          Yea you could but save your breath....  I think you're such a safe trucker that you need to resign from that teaching position and resume driving. We need safe drivers.  Sounds like you loved it and what an advocate you would be!!!  

          Susan

            ----- Original Message ----- 

            From: Fred Atkinson 

            To: Sansom Class of 1972 

            Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 1:37 PM

            Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

             

            Well, Susan, 

             

                I say stay away from them because what if some other motorist (of the four wheel type, for example) turns in front of him and he needs to swing left or right to keep from wiping that person out (once, two pickup trucks turned diagonally and less than thirty feet in front of me at the exit on an Interstate in New Jersey.  I didn't miss hitting them by much).  They were flooring it.  

             

                We could talk about the four wheel type of driver, too.  And I could say some things there.  

             

                Regards, 

             

             

             

                                                                                                    Fred  

              ----- Original Message ----- 

              From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 

              To: Sansom Class of 1972 

              Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:00 PM

              Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

               

              I'm in total agreement with you Coop. I try to stay out of their way but most of the time I can't. They won't let you-----in a hurry to stock those grocery shelves you know!!

              Susan

                ----- Original Message ----- 

                From: Dale Cooper 

                To: Sansom Class of 1972 

                Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:55 PM

                Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

                 

                Im Sorry Guys, Just had to vent a little bit. Just remember,  The Truckers are the biggest bullys on the playground ! Do not let road rage get you into trouble.Stay out of their way as much as you can. Save your obscene gestures for someone with a ( handicap ) sticker ! Just kidding. A little.

                 COOP !  ----- Original Message ----- 

                  From: Fred Atkinson 

                  To: Sansom Class of 1972 

                  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:24 AM

                  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

                   

                  Dale, 

                   

                      I am, too.  

                   

                      Regards, 

                   

                   

                   

                                                                                                  Fred 

                    ----- Original Message ----- 

                    From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 

                    To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 

                    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM

                    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

                     

                    Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John Dale 


------------------------------------------------------------

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From unkidale at coosahs.net  Fri Jun 16 18:16:40 2006
From: unkidale at coosahs.net (Dale Cooper)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 17:16:40 -0600
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <381.4dadd90.31c43b55@aol.com><009201c69169$a88e27c0$c80a0a0a@mishmash><002601c6916e$01cfe630$3d02a8c0@flashy><002201c69173$989a6680$c80a0a0a@mishmash><003f01c6917a$3a81a390$3d02a8c0@flashy>
	<001f01c69185$6e007740$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
Message-ID: <002201c6919a$ecb65040$3d02a8c0@flashy>

Fred, I realize at this point, that you are not capable of logical discussion on this subject. An opinion is just that. An opinion. My statements are not opinions. They are  simply the FACTS .  Still love You though, Your  old Bud, Coop ! / Keep On Truckin ! ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Fred Atkinson 
  To: Sansom Class of 1972 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:42 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  Dale, 

      You're entitled to your opinion.  

      Not everyone is going to share it, though.  And that's OK.  

      Regards, 



                                                                          Fred 

    ----- Original Message ----- 
    From: Dale Cooper 
    To: Sansom Class of 1972 
    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 3:22 PM
    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


    Fred, What part of my email did you read ? Listen, I know / You Don't / The Truckers I drive with  E V E R Y   S I N G L E *&^%$#$%%^&@#@$%^&* Day Are The   MAJORITY !!!/ How can you question me ?  / Its my LIFE Im talking about./ Simple Fact/ Not My Opinion / regards, COOP !
      ----- Original Message ----- 
      From: Fred Atkinson 
      To: Sansom Class of 1972 
      Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:35 PM
      Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


      Coop, 

          Truckers like you describe are in the minority.  

          But like any other profession, there are bad apples.  

          No problem with venting.  I've been angry at more than one trucker.  One almost rear-ended my truck when I was going at legal speed coming off the Interstate on a clover leaf.  And he was screaming obscenities at me over the CB.  He was in a tanker truck, which is much easier to flip over than a standard eighteen wheeler.  

          I told him that I wouldn't engage him as he knew I was proper and he wasn't.  I told him what the truckers generally tell each other, 'Drive safely and have a nice day'.  That pretty much ended it.  

          Regards, 



                                                                                      Fred 
        ----- Original Message ----- 
        From: Dale Cooper 
        To: Sansom Class of 1972 
        Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 1:55 PM
        Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


        Im Sorry Guys, Just had to vent a little bit. Just remember,  The Truckers are the biggest bullys on the playground ! Do not let road rage get you into trouble.Stay out of their way as much as you can. Save your obscene gestures for someone with a ( handicap ) sticker ! Just kidding. A little.
         COOP !  ----- Original Message ----- 
          From: Fred Atkinson 
          To: Sansom Class of 1972 
          Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:24 AM
          Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


          Dale, 

              I am, too.  

              Regards, 



                                                                                          Fred 
            ----- Original Message ----- 
            From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
            To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
            Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM
            Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


            Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John Dale 


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From unkidale at coosahs.net  Fri Jun 16 18:28:43 2006
From: unkidale at coosahs.net (Dale Cooper)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 17:28:43 -0600
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <381.4dadd90.31c43b55@aol.com><009201c69169$a88e27c0$c80a0a0a@mishmash><002601c6916e$01cfe630$3d02a8c0@flashy><002201c69173$989a6680$c80a0a0a@mishmash><003f01c6917a$3a81a390$3d02a8c0@flashy><001f01c69185$6e007740$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<002201c6919a$ecb65040$3d02a8c0@flashy>
Message-ID: <003c01c6919c$9bcb1060$3d02a8c0@flashy>

PS / Fred, I am sorry for the rudeness in my response on this subject. Whatever your thoughts are, I should have respected them and I am sorry.
I just get carried away sometimes. Please forgive me, Best Regards, Dale Cooper !
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Dale Cooper 
  To: Sansom Class of 1972 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 5:16 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  Fred, I realize at this point, that you are not capable of logical discussion on this subject. An opinion is just that. An opinion. My statements are not opinions. They are  simply the FACTS .  Still love You though, Your  old Bud, Coop ! / Keep On Truckin ! ----- Original Message ----- 
    From: Fred Atkinson 
    To: Sansom Class of 1972 
    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:42 PM
    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


    Dale, 

        You're entitled to your opinion.  

        Not everyone is going to share it, though.  And that's OK.  

        Regards, 



                                                                            Fred 

      ----- Original Message ----- 
      From: Dale Cooper 
      To: Sansom Class of 1972 
      Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 3:22 PM
      Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


      Fred, What part of my email did you read ? Listen, I know / You Don't / The Truckers I drive with  E V E R Y   S I N G L E *&^%$#$%%^&@#@$%^&* Day Are The   MAJORITY !!!/ How can you question me ?  / Its my LIFE Im talking about./ Simple Fact/ Not My Opinion / regards, COOP !
        ----- Original Message ----- 
        From: Fred Atkinson 
        To: Sansom Class of 1972 
        Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:35 PM
        Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


        Coop, 

            Truckers like you describe are in the minority.  

            But like any other profession, there are bad apples.  

            No problem with venting.  I've been angry at more than one trucker.  One almost rear-ended my truck when I was going at legal speed coming off the Interstate on a clover leaf.  And he was screaming obscenities at me over the CB.  He was in a tanker truck, which is much easier to flip over than a standard eighteen wheeler.  

            I told him that I wouldn't engage him as he knew I was proper and he wasn't.  I told him what the truckers generally tell each other, 'Drive safely and have a nice day'.  That pretty much ended it.  

            Regards, 



                                                                                        Fred 
          ----- Original Message ----- 
          From: Dale Cooper 
          To: Sansom Class of 1972 
          Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 1:55 PM
          Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


          Im Sorry Guys, Just had to vent a little bit. Just remember,  The Truckers are the biggest bullys on the playground ! Do not let road rage get you into trouble.Stay out of their way as much as you can. Save your obscene gestures for someone with a ( handicap ) sticker ! Just kidding. A little.
           COOP !  ----- Original Message ----- 
            From: Fred Atkinson 
            To: Sansom Class of 1972 
            Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:24 AM
            Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


            Dale, 

                I am, too.  

                Regards, 



                                                                                            Fred 
              ----- Original Message ----- 
              From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
              To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
              Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM
              Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


              Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John Dale 


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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Fri Jun 16 19:38:13 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 20:38:13 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <009701c69187$d818bc30$fa01a8c0@TonysM55><001a01c69189$c24ad8f0$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<037801c69193$33586950$6101a8c0@Lauren>
Message-ID: <001d01c691a6$5224a610$0000fea9@mishmash>

Susan, 

    There's money in it, but not like you think until you've got a good many years in it unless you speed like hell and get in as many miles as you can.  Those who don't do that don't fare that well.  

    Well, that's not my area.  I'm not underpaid on my present teaching assignment.  So I don't feel very qualified in that area.  

    Regards, 



                                                                                            Fred 
.  

    
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 
  To: Sansom Class of 1972 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 6:21 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  I share Dale's opinions.  Obviously there's money in the trucking industry or most of the people wouldn't stay in for so long and make a career out of it.

  Fred why don't you get on a worthwhile subject like the under paid, overworked teachers in America?

  Like Tony said on an earlier email.....
  Most people enslave themselves

  Susan
    ----- Original Message ----- 
    From: Fred Atkinson 
    To: Sansom Class of 1972 
    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 4:13 PM
    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


    Tony, 

        At the rate they pay those new truck drivers, I can't say I share that opinion.  

        They make it sound awfully good, that's what a sales pitch is supposed to do.  But it isn't as good as it sounds.  When one has found one has made some big mistakes, it isn't so easy to get out of the contract.  

        Regards, 



                                                                                        Fred 
      ----- Original Message ----- 
      From: Tony Nichols 
      To: 'Sansom Class of 1972' 
      Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 5:00 PM
      Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


      Fred,

       

      No one has to agree to accept company paid training.  You can just finance it your self or pay for it when you leave.  Put it on a no-interest credit card and pay for it over a year.  Five thousand dollars will not enslave anyone.  Gee, that's less than a couple months pay for the below-average trucker.  Just about anyone could pay that off in a year if they scrimped and saved a little.  By law, a trucking company would have to give an employee the right to pay that training off.  It sounds to me like the trucking companies did the truckers a favor by offering to pay for their training.  Some people don't have the resources to come up with the money for training.  However, that is not enslavement, that is a courtesy.

       

      Tony

       


--------------------------------------------------------------------------

      From: rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net [mailto:rebels1972-bounces at mishmash.net] On Behalf Of Fred Atkinson
      Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 3:44 PM
      To: Sansom Class of 1972
      Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

       

      Susan, 

       

          It's not the same thing.  He has a chance to move up, they don't get him into debt with them to get the training to do the job they want him to do.  

       

          I'll be that Russell quit now, he wouldn't have to pay them for his training.  

       

          Regards, 

       

       

              

                                                                                                      Fred 

       

        ----- Original Message ----- 

        From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 

        To: Sansom Class of 1972 

        Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 3:40 PM

        Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

         

        Hey Fred,

        Doesn't the college hold you in economic slavery?  I know that Goodyear holds Russell in slavery and thank God for it. We can eat, pay our bills and live a nice life.

        Susan

          ----- Original Message ----- 

          From: Fred Atkinson 

          To: Sansom Class of 1972 

          Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:07 PM

          Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

           

          Susan, 

           

              P. S..  You notice that a safe driver *is* off the road now because of the economics of the situation (me).  

           

           

           

                                                                                                              Fred 

            ----- Original Message ----- 

            From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 

            To: Sansom Class of 1972 

            Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:48 PM

            Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

             

            Yea you could but save your breath....  I think you're such a safe trucker that you need to resign from that teaching position and resume driving. We need safe drivers.  Sounds like you loved it and what an advocate you would be!!!  

            Susan

              ----- Original Message ----- 

              From: Fred Atkinson 

              To: Sansom Class of 1972 

              Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 1:37 PM

              Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

               

              Well, Susan, 

               

                  I say stay away from them because what if some other motorist (of the four wheel type, for example) turns in front of him and he needs to swing left or right to keep from wiping that person out (once, two pickup trucks turned diagonally and less than thirty feet in front of me at the exit on an Interstate in New Jersey.  I didn't miss hitting them by much).  They were flooring it.  

               

                  We could talk about the four wheel type of driver, too.  And I could say some things there.  

               

                  Regards, 

               

               

               

                                                                                                      Fred  

                ----- Original Message ----- 

                From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net 

                To: Sansom Class of 1972 

                Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:00 PM

                Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

                 

                I'm in total agreement with you Coop. I try to stay out of their way but most of the time I can't. They won't let you-----in a hurry to stock those grocery shelves you know!!

                Susan

                  ----- Original Message ----- 

                  From: Dale Cooper 

                  To: Sansom Class of 1972 

                  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:55 PM

                  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

                   

                  Im Sorry Guys, Just had to vent a little bit. Just remember,  The Truckers are the biggest bullys on the playground ! Do not let road rage get you into trouble.Stay out of their way as much as you can. Save your obscene gestures for someone with a ( handicap ) sticker ! Just kidding. A little.

                   COOP !  ----- Original Message ----- 

                    From: Fred Atkinson 

                    To: Sansom Class of 1972 

                    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:24 AM

                    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

                     

                    Dale, 

                     

                        I am, too.  

                     

                        Regards, 

                     

                     

                     

                                                                                                    Fred 

                      ----- Original Message ----- 

                      From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 

                      To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 

                      Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM

                      Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway

                       

                      Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John Dale 


----------------------------------------------------------

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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Fri Jun 16 19:45:05 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 20:45:05 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <381.4dadd90.31c43b55@aol.com><009201c69169$a88e27c0$c80a0a0a@mishmash><002601c6916e$01cfe630$3d02a8c0@flashy><002201c69173$989a6680$c80a0a0a@mishmash><003f01c6917a$3a81a390$3d02a8c0@flashy><001f01c69185$6e007740$c80a0a0a@mishmash>
	<002201c6919a$ecb65040$3d02a8c0@flashy>
Message-ID: <005001c691a7$46f5d600$0000fea9@mishmash>

Dale, 

    Don't agree.  They are your experiences/perceptions.  

    But that's OK.  Friends listen to friends.  

    Regards, 



                                                                                Fred 
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Dale Cooper 
  To: Sansom Class of 1972 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 7:16 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  Fred, I realize at this point, that you are not capable of logical discussion on this subject. An opinion is just that. An opinion. My statements are not opinions. They are  simply the FACTS .  Still love You though, Your  old Bud, Coop ! / Keep On Truckin ! ----- Original Message ----- 
    From: Fred Atkinson 
    To: Sansom Class of 1972 
    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:42 PM
    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


    Dale, 

        You're entitled to your opinion.  

        Not everyone is going to share it, though.  And that's OK.  

        Regards, 



                                                                            Fred 

      ----- Original Message ----- 
      From: Dale Cooper 
      To: Sansom Class of 1972 
      Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 3:22 PM
      Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


      Fred, What part of my email did you read ? Listen, I know / You Don't / The Truckers I drive with  E V E R Y   S I N G L E *&^%$#$%%^&@#@$%^&* Day Are The   MAJORITY !!!/ How can you question me ?  / Its my LIFE Im talking about./ Simple Fact/ Not My Opinion / regards, COOP !
        ----- Original Message ----- 
        From: Fred Atkinson 
        To: Sansom Class of 1972 
        Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:35 PM
        Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


        Coop, 

            Truckers like you describe are in the minority.  

            But like any other profession, there are bad apples.  

            No problem with venting.  I've been angry at more than one trucker.  One almost rear-ended my truck when I was going at legal speed coming off the Interstate on a clover leaf.  And he was screaming obscenities at me over the CB.  He was in a tanker truck, which is much easier to flip over than a standard eighteen wheeler.  

            I told him that I wouldn't engage him as he knew I was proper and he wasn't.  I told him what the truckers generally tell each other, 'Drive safely and have a nice day'.  That pretty much ended it.  

            Regards, 



                                                                                        Fred 
          ----- Original Message ----- 
          From: Dale Cooper 
          To: Sansom Class of 1972 
          Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 1:55 PM
          Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


          Im Sorry Guys, Just had to vent a little bit. Just remember,  The Truckers are the biggest bullys on the playground ! Do not let road rage get you into trouble.Stay out of their way as much as you can. Save your obscene gestures for someone with a ( handicap ) sticker ! Just kidding. A little.
           COOP !  ----- Original Message ----- 
            From: Fred Atkinson 
            To: Sansom Class of 1972 
            Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:24 AM
            Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


            Dale, 

                I am, too.  

                Regards, 



                                                                                            Fred 
              ----- Original Message ----- 
              From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
              To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
              Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM
              Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


              Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John Dale 


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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Fri Jun 16 19:46:05 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Fri, 16 Jun 2006 20:46:05 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway
References: <381.4dadd90.31c43b55@aol.com><009201c69169$a88e27c0$c80a0a0a@mishmash><002601c6916e$01cfe630$3d02a8c0@flashy><002201c69173$989a6680$c80a0a0a@mishmash><003f01c6917a$3a81a390$3d02a8c0@flashy><001f01c69185$6e007740$c80a0a0a@mishmash><002201c6919a$ecb65040$3d02a8c0@flashy>
	<003c01c6919c$9bcb1060$3d02a8c0@flashy>
Message-ID: <007801c691a7$6a6cd0c0$0000fea9@mishmash>

Dale, 

    No problem, guy.  I know you are a cool dude like most of the rest of us.  ;-)

    Regards, 



                                                                        Fred 
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Dale Cooper 
  To: Sansom Class of 1972 
  Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 7:28 PM
  Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


  PS / Fred, I am sorry for the rudeness in my response on this subject. Whatever your thoughts are, I should have respected them and I am sorry.
  I just get carried away sometimes. Please forgive me, Best Regards, Dale Cooper !
    ----- Original Message ----- 
    From: Dale Cooper 
    To: Sansom Class of 1972 
    Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 5:16 PM
    Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


    Fred, I realize at this point, that you are not capable of logical discussion on this subject. An opinion is just that. An opinion. My statements are not opinions. They are  simply the FACTS .  Still love You though, Your  old Bud, Coop ! / Keep On Truckin ! ----- Original Message ----- 
      From: Fred Atkinson 
      To: Sansom Class of 1972 
      Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 2:42 PM
      Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


      Dale, 

          You're entitled to your opinion.  

          Not everyone is going to share it, though.  And that's OK.  

          Regards, 



                                                                              Fred 

        ----- Original Message ----- 
        From: Dale Cooper 
        To: Sansom Class of 1972 
        Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 3:22 PM
        Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


        Fred, What part of my email did you read ? Listen, I know / You Don't / The Truckers I drive with  E V E R Y   S I N G L E *&^%$#$%%^&@#@$%^&* Day Are The   MAJORITY !!!/ How can you question me ?  / Its my LIFE Im talking about./ Simple Fact/ Not My Opinion / regards, COOP !
          ----- Original Message ----- 
          From: Fred Atkinson 
          To: Sansom Class of 1972 
          Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:35 PM
          Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


          Coop, 

              Truckers like you describe are in the minority.  

              But like any other profession, there are bad apples.  

              No problem with venting.  I've been angry at more than one trucker.  One almost rear-ended my truck when I was going at legal speed coming off the Interstate on a clover leaf.  And he was screaming obscenities at me over the CB.  He was in a tanker truck, which is much easier to flip over than a standard eighteen wheeler.  

              I told him that I wouldn't engage him as he knew I was proper and he wasn't.  I told him what the truckers generally tell each other, 'Drive safely and have a nice day'.  That pretty much ended it.  

              Regards, 



                                                                                          Fred 
            ----- Original Message ----- 
            From: Dale Cooper 
            To: Sansom Class of 1972 
            Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 1:55 PM
            Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


            Im Sorry Guys, Just had to vent a little bit. Just remember,  The Truckers are the biggest bullys on the playground ! Do not let road rage get you into trouble.Stay out of their way as much as you can. Save your obscene gestures for someone with a ( handicap ) sticker ! Just kidding. A little.
             COOP !  ----- Original Message ----- 
              From: Fred Atkinson 
              To: Sansom Class of 1972 
              Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 11:24 AM
              Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


              Dale, 

                  I am, too.  

                  Regards, 



                                                                                              Fred 
                ----- Original Message ----- 
                From: Jdrtiger at aol.com 
                To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net 
                Sent: Friday, June 16, 2006 12:50 PM
                Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] knights of the highway


                Dale... I'm so sorry you lost your cousin due to the reckless actions of a trucker. I have officiated many funerals over the last 25 years of my ministry now.  The lost of a loved one is very hard.  You never get totally over that.  I mourn with you as I have many others.... again, I'm so sorry man.  John Dale 


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From bbmswilson at bellsouth.net  Sun Jun 18 09:29:40 2006
From: bbmswilson at bellsouth.net (bbmswilson at bellsouth.net)
Date: Sun, 18 Jun 2006 10:29:40 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] August 5th
Message-ID: <20060618142941.FAED29559.ibm61aec.bellsouth.net@mail.bellsouth.net>

Hey Ya'll,
        Let's talk about something else.  We have better things to talk about than truckers!
        Who's coming to the Tyn Tymes Reunion?  Let's try to get together again at the reunion on the 5th.  It will be a blast!  
Love ya'll,
Beth



From unkidale at coosahs.net  Sun Jun 18 09:46:46 2006
From: unkidale at coosahs.net (Dale Cooper)
Date: Sun, 18 Jun 2006 08:46:46 -0600
Subject: [Rebels1972] August 5th
References: <20060618142941.FAED29559.ibm61aec.bellsouth.net@mail.bellsouth.net>
Message-ID: <000601c692e6$0623ca20$3d02a8c0@flashy>

WE ??? I don't remember seeing YOUR  name on any emails re. Truckers. I 
could have used your help.How are you, Beth ? Dont' worry, Im tired of the 
endless debate also.I cant make the Tyn Times thing. Sorry. Keep in touch, 
COOP !----- Original Message ----- 
From: <bbmswilson at bellsouth.net>
To: <Rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
Sent: Sunday, June 18, 2006 8:29 AM
Subject: [Rebels1972] August 5th


> Hey Ya'll,
>        Let's talk about something else.  We have better things to talk 
> about than truckers!
>        Who's coming to the Tyn Tymes Reunion?  Let's try to get together 
> again at the reunion on the 5th.  It will be a blast!
> Love ya'll,
> Beth
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net 



From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Sun Jun 18 12:04:24 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Sun, 18 Jun 2006 13:04:24 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] August 5th
References: <20060618142941.FAED29559.ibm61aec.bellsouth.net@mail.bellsouth.net>
	<000601c692e6$0623ca20$3d02a8c0@flashy>
Message-ID: <005901c692f9$40774c70$c80a0a0a@mishmash>

    I wish I could make the Ten Tyms, but I have to get moved by the end of
the month then I have to get ready to be on the plane to Minneapolis by the
16th of July.

    You'll all have to tell me about it.

    Regards,


                                                                Fred

----- Original Message -----
From: "Dale Cooper" <unkidale at coosahs.net>
To: "Sansom Class of 1972" <rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
Sent: Sunday, June 18, 2006 10:46 AM
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] August 5th


> WE ??? I don't remember seeing YOUR  name on any emails re. Truckers. I
> could have used your help.How are you, Beth ? Dont' worry, Im tired of the
> endless debate also.I cant make the Tyn Times thing. Sorry. Keep in touch,
> COOP !----- Original Message -----
> From: <bbmswilson at bellsouth.net>
> To: <Rebels1972 at mishmash.net>
> Sent: Sunday, June 18, 2006 8:29 AM
> Subject: [Rebels1972] August 5th
>
>
> > Hey Ya'll,
> >        Let's talk about something else.  We have better things to talk
> > about than truckers!
> >        Who's coming to the Tyn Tymes Reunion?  Let's try to get together
> > again at the reunion on the 5th.  It will be a blast!
> > Love ya'll,
> > Beth
> >
> >
> > _______________________________________________
> > Rebels1972 mailing list
> > Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> > http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
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From Jdrtiger at aol.com  Sun Jun 18 13:28:20 2006
From: Jdrtiger at aol.com (Jdrtiger at aol.com)
Date: Sun, 18 Jun 2006 14:28:20 EDT
Subject: [Rebels1972] August 5th
Message-ID: <255.bdaa53c.31c6f544@aol.com>

Fred: Are you leaving the south for real?  Are you really moving to  
Minneapolis?  Don't tell me that another rebel is headed north of the  Mason-Dixon 
line...?  lol   John Dale
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From fatkinson at mishmash.com  Sun Jun 18 13:41:15 2006
From: fatkinson at mishmash.com (Fred Atkinson)
Date: Sun, 18 Jun 2006 11:41:15 -0700
Subject: [Rebels1972] August 5th
Message-ID: <20060618114115.C98D1B39@resin06.mta.everyone.net>

J. D., 

    No, I'm not.  I'm going for a two week training class on Network Security.  But I've got to get moved before I go.  

    My move is here in the western North Carolina area.  I'm actually only moving three or four miles from where I am now.  

    Regards, 



                                                 Fred 

--- Jdrtiger at aol.com wrote:

From: Jdrtiger at aol.com
To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net
Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] August 5th
Date: Sun, 18 Jun 2006 14:28:20 EDT

Fred: Are you leaving the south for real?  Are you really moving to  
Minneapolis?  Don't tell me that another rebel is headed north of the  Mason-Dixon 
line...?  lol   John Dale

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From bmorgan7459 at charter.net  Sun Jun 18 14:58:28 2006
From: bmorgan7459 at charter.net (bmorgan7459 at charter.net)
Date: Sun, 18 Jun 2006 12:58:28 -0700
Subject: [Rebels1972] August 5th
Message-ID: <1453273420.1150660708248.JavaMail.root@fepweb12>

FRED,

WHAT PART OF WESTERN NC DO YOU LIVE IN?  MY WIFE AND I ARE PLANNING A RIDE THRU SC & NC IN THE FALL.  DEPENDING ON IF I CAN STAY HEALTHY AND UNBROKEN.  WE MISSED A SPRING RIDE DUE TO BACK PROBLEMS, SO WE ARE MAKING UP IN THE FALL.


PAT








-- Fred Atkinson <fatkinson at mishmash.com> wrote: 
> J. D., 
> 
>     No, I'm not.  I'm going for a two week training class on Network Security.  But I've got to get moved before I go.  
> 
>     My move is here in the western North Carolina area.  I'm actually only moving three or four miles from where I am now.  
> 
>     Regards, 
> 
> 
> 
>                                                  Fred 
> 
> --- Jdrtiger at aol.com wrote:
> 
> From: Jdrtiger at aol.com
> To: rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> Subject: Re: [Rebels1972] August 5th
> Date: Sun, 18 Jun 2006 14:28:20 EDT
> 
> Fred: Are you leaving the south for real?  Are you really moving to  
> Minneapolis?  Don't tell me that another rebel is headed north of the  Mason-Dixon 
> line...?  lol   John Dale
> 
> _______________________________________________
> Rebels1972 mailing list
> Rebels1972 at mishmash.net
> http://mishmash.net/mailman/listinfo/rebels1972_mishmash.net
> 
> 
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From bbmswilson at bellsouth.net  Sun Jun 18 17:43:21 2006
From: bbmswilson at bellsouth.net (bbmswilson at bellsouth.net)
Date: Sun, 18 Jun 2006 18:43:21 -0400
Subject: [Rebels1972] Dale
Message-ID: <20060618224321.IXRT29559.ibm61aec.bellsouth.net@mail.bellsouth.net>

Dale,
      I was taking up for you!   This morning, before I left for church, I thought I could briefly check my email for the first time in a couple of days.   I had 39 messages on my laptop and thirty-six of them were about truckers.   So, being a mother of two boys,  I said let's move on to something new.  Thank goodness we have.   EVERYONE is tired of that subject.  I included myself in that discussion because I had to open and delete 36 emails.  Hope you understand where I was coming from.
Love to all!
Beth



From machen2081 at bellsouth.net  Mon Jun 19 17:36:11 2006
From: machen2081 at bellsouth.net (machen2081 at bellsouth.net)
Date: Mon, 19 Jun 2006 17:36:11 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] prayer request
Message-ID: <021601c693f0$c44f18f0$6101a8c0@Lauren>

Rebels,

Please keep Rick Bearden in your thoughts and prayers as he is under going treatment either surgery or lithotripsy for kidney stones right now.

This is all the information that I have.

Susan
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From arpnurse at hotmail.com  Mon Jun 19 23:15:08 2006
From: arpnurse at hotmail.com (Bill Stonecypher)
Date: Mon, 19 Jun 2006 23:15:08 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] prayer request
Message-ID: <BAY103-F30BF762ACD378E09510FBBD3870@phx.gbl>

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From arpnurse at hotmail.com  Wed Jun 21 03:19:48 2006
From: arpnurse at hotmail.com (Bill Stonecypher)
Date: Wed, 21 Jun 2006 03:19:48 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] (no subject)
Message-ID: <BAY103-F38DD70B2DAB250EADF0157D3840@phx.gbl>

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From arpnurse at hotmail.com  Sun Jun 25 03:05:21 2006
From: arpnurse at hotmail.com (Bill Stonecypher)
Date: Sun, 25 Jun 2006 03:05:21 -0500
Subject: [Rebels1972] well?
Message-ID: <BAY103-F18CA15832065DB86EC9CE0D3780@phx.gbl>

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From bmorgan7459 at charter.net  Sun Jun 25 14:45:27 2006
From: bmorgan7459 at charter.net (bmorgan7459 at charter.net)
Date: Sun, 25 Jun 2006 12:45:27 -0700
Subject: [Rebels1972] well?
Message-ID: <166850750.1151264727982.JavaMail.root@fepweb03>

BILL

I DONT KNOW WHICH IS WORSE,  THE GONN FROM NEW YORK OR BEING IN A GROCERY STORE.  I THOUGHT NY'ERS WERE SUPPOSED TO BE VERY PRIVATE AND UNINTERESTED IN ANYONE ELSE.  HE MUST HAVE BEEN IN THE SOUTHFOR A WHILE;  OTHERWISE HE PROBABLY WOULD HAVE KEPY HIS MOUTH SHUT.  I DONT KNOW WHICH IS WORSE.  


PAT





--- Bill Stonecypher <arpnurse at hotmail.com> wrote: 
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