10-hour driving limit for truckers proposed

The Obama administration is considering the establishment of a 10-hour driving limit for long-haul truckers.

The Federal Motor Carrier Administration said Thursday it favors reducing the current 11-hour limit by an hour. But the agency is accepting comments on whether to change the rule, signaling it may not be completely behind the idea.

The Obama administration has been considering whether to rewrite rules passed in the waning hours of the Bush administration that allowed commercial truckers to drive 11 consecutive hours before resting. That changed a six-decade standard for truckers. Full Story....

Tom Gerke to Join YRC Worldwide as Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary

YRC Worldwide Inc. has announced that Tom Gerke is joining the company as executive vice president and general counsel effective Jan. 3. He also will serve as secretary to the YRC Worldwide board of directors.

"Tom is uniquely positioned to lead our legal organization as we work on our comprehensive recovery plan," says Bill Zollars, chairman, president and CEO-YRC Worldwide. "We are really pleased to have Tom joining us and look forward to him being a key contributor on our leadership team as we continue our progress."

"YRC Worldwide brands are true industry leaders, and I am impressed at what the company has accomplished to weather the economic downturn while preparing for the future," says Gerke. "I am excited to be part of the team working to continue the company's progress."

Gerke has extensive experience with Fortune 500 companies in leadership roles. He has most recently served as executive vice chairman at CenturyLink. Previously, he was president and CEO of Embarq Corporation, and prior to Embarq, Gerke held a number of senior executive leadership roles at Sprint Nextel Corporation including serving as general counsel.

Prior to that, he spent nine years in private practice. Gerke's extensive legal experience includes regulatory, external affairs and support for boards of directors. He received his Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri School of Law and a Master of Business Administration from Rockhurst University. Gerke is a board member of the Kansas City Local Investment Commission and serves on the Rockhurst University Board of Trustees.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS AND BEST WISHES FOR THE NEW YEAR

General Secretary-Treasurer Tom Keegel and I extend our best wishes for a happy holiday season to our Teamster brothers and sisters and all their families. You deserve it after working so hard in 2010 to keep our union strong and united during these tough economic times. We are confident that the New Year has great things in store for all of us.

As we close out 2010, we look back with pride on what we have accomplished. We have had great Teamster organizing victories at Continental Airlines, KAG West, CVS, Pasco County in Florida, just to name a few. Our extremely successful school bus campaign continues to rack up victories.

But we suffered a tremendous loss on Aug. 3, when eight innocent people were gunned down in the warehouse of a beer distributorship. Seven of those killed were Teamsters, members of Local 1035 in South Windsor, Conn. Almost all of the victims were nearing retirement after a lifetime of hard work. We have these fallen brothers and their families in our hearts this season.

We are proud of how our union came together to help out the families, friends and co-workers of the slain Local 1035 members.

Our union is great because of you. For your dedication to our union, we are eternally grateful.

May this holiday season bring you great happiness and peace. And let’s look forward to making 2011 our best year yet!

In solidarity,



James P. Hoffa, General President

YRC Worldwide Continues Progress on Comprehensive Plan

Expected Fourth Quarter 2010 Adjusted EBITDA In Excess of Covenant Level

Credit Agreement and ABS Lenders Extend Interest and Fee Deferral to May 2011

Key Stakeholders in Discussions to Complete Comprehensive Plan by Mid-2011

YRC Worldwide Inc. today announced amendments to its credit agreement and asset-backed securitization facility ('ABS'). Both amendments are intended to provide additional time for the company and its key stakeholders to finalize plans to recapitalize the company's balance sheet, including working with its lenders and the Teamster negotiating committee for the International Brotherhood of Teamsters ('TNFINC').

"We appreciate the continued support of all our stakeholders as we work to finalize our comprehensive recovery plan," said Sheila Taylor, Executive Vice President and CFO of YRC Worldwide. "These amendments are another indication of the positive dialogue with our lenders and their further interest in a long-term solution for the company."

The amended credit facilities extend the deferral of credit agreement interest and fees through mid-May 2011 and interest and fees under the ABS facility through May 31, 2011. The amendment requires the company to reach an agreement in principal to recapitalize its balance sheet by February 28, 2011, complete final documentation by March 15, 2011 and close by May 13, 2011.

The effectiveness of the credit agreement and ABS facility amendments is subject to the consent of TNFINC and agreement by a supermajority of the multi-employer pension funds who are party to the company's contribution deferral agreement to an extension of the deferral of interest and principal payments under that agreement through May 31, 2011.

In addition, the amendments establish the company's 2011 financial covenants in conjunction with the company's finalization of its 2011 financial forecast. For the four quarters ending March 31, 2011, the company's adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ('adjusted EBITDA') covenant is $140 million and its minimum available cash covenant will remain at $25 million. The remaining adjusted EBITDA and capital expenditure covenants and other details can be found in the current report Form 8-K filed today with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

YRC granted extensions on two lending arrangements

YRC Worldwide Inc. said Tuesday it received extensions on two lending agreements, allowing it to continue working on its restructuring plan through mid-2011.

The Overland Park-based trucking company said it received amendments on its credit agreement and asset-backed securitization program, extending deferrals on interest and fees though next May. The extension requires that YRC reach an agreement in principle to recapitalize its balance sheet by Feb. 28 and close that deal by May 13. Full Story...

Teamsters Applaud Dismissal of ABF Suit

Union's Freight Director: 'Best Possible Outcome for Teamsters'

The Teamsters hailed a U.S. District Court ruling on Thursday that ABF Freight System does not have standing to sue YRCW Worldwide Inc. and the union in court.

Judge Susan Webber Wright dismissed the case brought by Fort Smith, Ark.-based ABF.

"We have said all along that ABF took itself out of the National Master Freight Agreement and therefore has no right to bring the suit," said Brad Raymond, Teamsters General Counsel. "The bench dismissal should send a strong message to ABF that its attempts to interfere with the contractual arrangement between YRCW and its Teamsters-represented employees must end."

"ABF needs to realize that it cannot circumvent the negotiating and ratification process through the courts," added Tyson Johnson, Director of the Teamsters National Freight Division. "We negotiated with ABF in good faith earlier this year, reaching an agreement that was overwhelmingly rejected by its employees. ABF should concentrate on freight pick-up and delivery operations of its company rather than trying to put YRCW out of business through litigation and other means. We are pleased that Judge Wright dismissed this lawsuit because it removes an impediment to YRCW's restructuring efforts."

"This decision is the best possible outcome for Teamster members at both companies," said Johnson.


The Teamsters represent 25,000 workers at YRCW, based in Overland Park, Kan., and 7,000 workers at ABF.

Judge dismisses competitor's lawsuit against YRC, Teamsters

A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit brought by a trucking company that challeged the concessionary contract reached between YRC Worldwide Inc. and the Teamsters union.

U.S. District Judge Susan Webber ruled in a Little Rock federal court that YRC and ABF Freight System Inc. operated under separate bargaining agreements.

The judgment is another positive devlopment for Overland Park-based YRC, which has struggled to remain viable since the economy collapsed in late 2008. YRC has reached three concessionary contracts with its Teamsters employees since then. Full Story....

ABF Hearing Set For Thursday

A federal judge on Thursday will decide whether Fort Smith-based ABF Freight System has standing to sue competing truckers and the Teamsters in U.S. District Court.

ABF on Nov. 1 filed a federal lawsuit alleging that subsidiaries of YRC Inc. and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters violated terms of a multi-employer labor contract by entering into side deals that the gave the YRC companies an improper competitive advantage over ABF.

ABF seeks court appointment of a neutral third-party tribunal to hear its grievances, or, alternatively, nullification of the side agreements plus damages of $750 million.
In response, the defendants filed motions seeking to dismiss the case, claiming the court lacks jurisdiction over the matter.

The hearing begins at 10 a.m. Thursday in the Eastern District courthouse in Little Rock, with U.S. District Judge Susan Webber Wright presiding.

According to court documents, ABF asserts that the Labor Management Relations Act allows the federal court to hear suits over labor contract violations.

However, the employer defendants - YRC Inc., New Penn Motor Express Inc. and USF Holland Inc. - argue that ABF is not a party to the National Master Freight Agreement and therefore lacks standing to challenge the contract amendments.

On Dec. 2, Wright stated in an order that she would determine both the question of ABF's standing and whether that question can be severed from ABF's claims.

In a separate order Dec. 3, the judge noted that neither Trucking Management Inc. nor the union defendants - the IBT, the Teamsters National Freight Industry Negotiating Committee, Teamsters Local Union 373 of Fort Smith and Local 878 of Little Rock - had requested hearings on their motions to dismiss.

She gave them until Monday to request to be heard. The union defendants made their request on Dec. 8 and TMI made its request Dec. 10.

The case was initially filed in the Western District's Fayetteville court in error, then transferred to Fort Smith. Wright was assigned the case after U.S. District Judge Jimm Larry Hendren, a Western District judge, recused himself.

YRC Celebrates 25 Years of Providing Trade Show and Exhibit Services

Shipments have changed over the years; expectations remain the same

YRC still provides industry's only inbound guarantee on all tradeshow shipments


This year YRC celebrates its 25th anniversary of providing trade show and exhibit services. During those 25 years, the company estimates it has delivered about 5 million exhibit shipments, weighing a collective 2.1 trillion pounds, to approximately 175,000 trade shows.

"Those aren't just numbers to our exhibit services team," says Bill Schwar, YRC director of exhibit sales and operations. "Each shipment we move, no matter what size, no matter what show, is critically important to our customers: They need their tradeshow shipments delivered on time and intact, so they can sell their products."

Schwar says tradeshow shipments have changed over the years, with a noticeable reduction in weight.

"Rather than shipping heavy crates and booths, tradeshow customers today are more likely to ship lightweight materials," says Schwar. "But customer expectations remain the same. And, after 25 years, YRC is still the only carrier in the industry that offers a guarantee on all inbound shipments and the patented protection of Sealed Exhibit."

"Service offerings aren't all that set the company apart," said Mike Smid, president of YRC and chief operations officer of YRC Worldwide. "YRC has more than 20 exhibit managers in key locations around the United States, so we're on site at most of the big shows. We're there, working with the general service contractors, to make sure exhibit shipments move in and out on time. Over the years, we've seen what a difference that makes for our customers. We congratulate the YRC exhibit team on their 25th anniversary and look forward to ongoing success in the years ahead."

YRC’s consolidation plans could bring jobs to KC

YRC Worldwide Inc. wants to further reduce its delivery network, but consolidation elsewhere could add jobs in Kansas City.

Last month YRC submitted a change-of-operations proposal to the Teamsters union, seeking to close 31 small and medium-sized terminals around the country. In what the company characterizes as an effort to improve efficiencies and better serve customers, the proposal could result in the transfer of nearly 500 YRC employees.

If adopted, the operations change would result in the closing of YRC terminals in the region, including ones in St. Joseph, Topeka, and Iola, Kan., said Vic Terranella, president of Teamsters Local 41. Those are relatively small facilities, Terranella said, with St. Joseph having four active employees and Topeka five. Full Story....

ABF Road Driver John Boyd Awarded ABF Medal of Excellence for Life-Saving Actions

ABF Freight System, Inc., recognized the life-saving actions of John Boyd by awarding him the ABF Medal of Excellence. An ABF road driver in Dayton, Ohio, Boyd became the sixth recipient of the award, which is the highest honor the company can present to an employee. Mr. Boyd was presented the award during a ceremony at the ABF General Office on December 2, 2010.

"John Boyd is a hero and a role model for all of us," said ABF President and Chief Executive Officer Wes Kemp. "The prompt, resourceful, and responsible way he acted in the face of a crisis is most inspiring. John is a fine example of the caliber of people we have on the ABF team and we're very proud to recognize his actions with the ABF Medal of Excellence."

The life-saving incident occurred in April 2010 when Boyd maneuvered his truck to shield an accident victim thrown from an overturned vehicle on Interstate 675 near Beavercreek, Ohio. Boyd called emergency services, maneuvered his truck to protect the victim from oncoming traffic, and remained on the scene providing aid until authorities arrived. "He was lying on his back, next to the guardrail, on the pavement in the road," Boyd was quoted as saying at the time. "They [other motorists] would have run over the guy." The accident victim, who later recovered, was a 27-year-old soldier home from Iraq and scheduled for deployment to Afghanistan.

National Share the Road Safety Program Heads to Indiana to Teach Young Drivers Safe Driving Techniques

Top professional truck drivers presented life-saving highway driving tips to young drivers today as part of the American Trucking Associations' national Share the Road highway safety tour.

An estimated 12.6 million new drivers will receive licenses this year nationally, indicating the necessity of sharing the road safely. Professional truck drivers with millions of accident-free driving miles demonstrated techniques that young motorists should utilize when driving near large trucks.

The American Trucking Associations, Bestway Express, and the Share the Road sponsors, Mack Trucks and Michelin North America, joined the elite group of drivers to discuss highway safety with Indiana drivers. This is the first stop at Vincennes University for Share the Road.

"Motor vehicle crashes are the number one killer of American teenagers," said Wayne Crowder, a professional truck driver from Lanesville, Ind. "I'm a parent, so I know what we're doing here today is very important. Most automobile drivers were never taught what they can do to avoid an accident with a tractor-trailer."

Featured at today's event were professional truck drivers Wayne Crowder (FedEx Freight) and Paul Gattin (ABF Freight System, Inc.). Those drivers are members of an elite team of million-mile, accident-free truck drivers who deliver the trucking industry's safety messages across the country.

David Tucker, Vice President for Workforce Development and Community Services at Vincennes University told reporters at the event, "Share the Road is one of the best programs that the American Trucking Associations can present to Indiana motorists.

With increasing traffic, it is important to make sure that all drivers are aware of the blindspots around large trucks. This information, and other safety advice, will help everyone to share the roads safely."

Today's presentation of Share the Road safety measures is important to Indiana motorists because:

16-year-olds are more likely to be involved in single vehicle crashes, be responsible for the crash, be cited for speeding, and have more passengers than older drivers (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration).

35 percent of all truck-involved highway fatalities occur in a truck's blind spots (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration).

Up to 75 percent of all truck-involved fatalities are unintentionally initiated by car drivers (AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety).

During the safety demonstration today at Vincennes University, students climbed inside the cab of a truck to see first hand what a professional truck driver can and cannot see. Today's demonstration was designed to teach specific skills to young motorists in order to drive safely around other automobiles and around trucks and large commercial vehicles on the highways, and to arrive safely at their destinations.

Union Member Earns Highest Scouting Honor

James Rogers is the recipient of the annual George Meany Scouting Award given by the Boy Scouts of America Council. The award is the highest honor presented to a union member who is active in Boy Scouting.

Rogers is a member of Teamsters Local 401 and is employed by YRC Trucking. He has been an active volunteer with the Boy Scouts program for 19 years and serves as the assistant scoutmaster of Troop 61 in Old Forge. He was selected for the award by the Greater Wilkes-Barre Labor Council’s Community Service Committee.

At the Northeastern Pennsylvania Council Boy Scouts of America’s annual awards dinner, from left, are Walter Klepaski, Community Service Committee, Greater Wilkes-Barre Labor Council; James Murphy, president, Teamsters Local 401; Ed Harry, president, Greater Wilkes-Barre Labor Council; and Rogers.

Teamsters call for dismissal of ABF lawsuit about YRC concessions

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters is joining YRC Worldwide Inc. in calling for a federal judge in Arkansas to dismiss a lawsuit challenging three rounds of wage and benefit concessions approved by union members who work for YRC.

In a court filing Tuesday, the Teamsters echoed many of the arguments that YRC raised in its filings against ABF Freight System Inc.’s lawsuit earlier this month.

ABF filed the suit against the Teamsters and several YRC subsidiaries soon after Teamster-represented workers at Overland Park-based YRC agreed to a third round of concessions, including the extension of a 15 percent pay cut to 2015 and the continued waiver of employee pension contributions until June. Full Story......

Professional Drivers Offer Highway Safety Tips for Thanksgiving Travel

America's Road Team Captains Provide Life Saving Advice

This Thanksgiving, an estimated 42.2 million motorists are expected to take to the road. Additional motorists and winter road conditions can lead to dangerous situations, so a team of million mile accident-free drivers are helping to make our roads safer. America's Road Team Captains, elite professional truck drivers, are offering advice on how to navigate through highway traffic and arrive at your destination safely. Tips include:

Prepare your vehicle for long distance travel: Check your wipers and fluids. Have your radiator and cooling system serviced. Simple maintenance can prevent many of the problems that strand motorists on the side of the road before you leave your home.

Plan ahead: Before you get on a highway, know your exit by name and number, and watch the signs as you near the off-ramp. Drivers making unexpected lane changes to exit often cause accidents.

Do not cut in front of large trucks: Remember that trucks are heavier and take longer to make a complete stop, so avoid cutting quickly in front of them.

Check your emergency kit: Contents should include: battery powered radio, flashlight, blanket, jumper cables, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable foods, maps, tire repair kit and flares.

Be aware of changes in weather: Weather conditions across the U.S. will be changing - especially during early mornings and evenings with the cold. Watch for ice, snow and other weather related obstacles.

Keep your eyes on the road: Distracted driving is a major cause of traffic accidents. Even just two seconds of distraction time doubles the chances of an accident. Use your cell phone when stopped and never text while driving.

Leave early and avoid risks: Leave early so you won't be anxious about arriving late and to accommodate delays. Road conditions may change due to inclement weather or traffic congestion.

Be aware of truck blind spots: When sharing the road with large trucks, be aware of their blind spots. If you can't see the truck driver in his or her mirrors, then the truck driver can't see you.

Slow Down: With the extra highway congestion due to Holiday travel, speeding becomes even more dangerous. Allow plenty of space cushion and reduce your speed.

Buckle up: Safety belts reduce the risk of fatal injury by 45 percent and are a simple way to increase your safety on the road.

"Thanksgiving is the busiest travel day of the year," said America's Road Team Captain Greg Nauertz (YRC). "With so many motorists on the road, it's important to use caution and patience while driving. Following these rules for the road will ensure that we all arrive safely to our loved ones."

The America's Road Team would like to remind the motoring public that from driveway to highway, safety requires patience and dedication.

YRC terminal in Peru, IL targeted for closing

A less than four-year-old trucking terminal north of Interstate 80 in Peru, operated by YRC (formerly known as Yellow Freight) will close this winter.

Facility employees including Teamsters at the terminal at 22 Unytite Drive learned Monday about the closing, with YRC citing economic hardships. A public relations firm hired by YRC was not immediately forthcoming with detailed information on deadline Friday.

Currently, there about three office staff members, while seven union drivers are on lay-off and about 13 drivers still are active, according to Steve Mongan, business manager for Teamsters Local 722, La Salle.

The decision to include the Peru facility as one of the terminals it is closing is perplexing, Mongan said, considering it’s a less than four-year-old, 86-door terminal. Stranger still is closing a terminal that was built in Peru in 2007 for the ease of access to the interstate and also to get out of traffic in the West Chicago and Montgomery area. Full Story.......

IMPORTANT UPDATE ON YRCW CHANGE OF OPERATIONS

Last Wednesday, November 10, the Teamsters National Freight Industry Negotiating Committee (TNFINC) was advised by YRC that it was mailing a “change of operations” to Local Unions this week. This multi-region “change of operations” would affect several hundred members throughout the United States and potentially close 31 small- and medium-sized terminals in three of the four Teamster regional areas in which they operate.

Local Unions are receiving the details of this “change of operations” this week and we are still evaluating the company’s intended plans to relocate certain drivers and alter current freight handling practices.

“At this time, no hearing has been scheduled and will likely not be scheduled prior to the holidays as YRC needs to meet with each affected Local Union as a first step in the process,” said Tyson Johnson, TNFINC Co-chair. “This needs to occur before any formal meetings between YRC and TNFINC regarding another YRC change of operations will be conducted.”

The Teamsters Freight Division will keep all Local Unions and YRC members updated regarding the company’s stated plans as specific details of the proposed change emerge.

YRC Worldwide will close 40 terminals because of low freight volume

YRC Worldwide Inc. plans to close about 40 terminals across the country as it continues shrinking its operations to handle a smaller amount of customer freight.

Sheila Taylor, CFO of the Overland Park-based company, told analysts during an analyst conference on Wednesday that the company has submitted a “change of operations” with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters union about the closures.

“We’re taking steps to ‘right size’ the business,” Taylor said, adding that the closures affect about 12 percent of the company’s 334 facilities.

Chairman and CEO Bill Zollars said that most of the terminals set to close are smaller facilities and that there should be no more closings for a while. Full Story.....

Teamsters Honor Veterans

A LETTER FROM GENERAL PRESIDENT JAMES P. HOFFA

Dear Active-Duty and Veteran Teamsters:

I want to thank you for your dedication and service to our country. On this Veterans Day, the Teamsters Union pays tribute to the fine work you are doing whether it’s active duty in Afghanistan, Iraq, or if you have served in previous conflicts. The duty you are performing to protect those in need and your country is inspiring.

Since World War I, Teamster members have been involved in all our nation’s wars. In more recent years, the Teamsters Union has become involved with Helmets to Hardhats, which is a service for returning veterans to find good union jobs in the construction industry. If you are a veteran who is returning to work, we encourage you to contact Helmets to Hardhats at helmetstohardhats.org.

The entire General Executive Board, and myself, take pride in honoring you, our veterans, not only on this special day but throughout the year.

We salute all of our veterans, their families and loved ones.

Fraternally,


James P. Hoffa
Teamsters General President

YRC Worldwide CEO Indicates Co. May Counter Sue ABF Freight

YRC Worldwide Inc. Chief Executive Bill Zollars called a legal challenge to the struggling trucking company's critical new labor concessions meritless on Friday, saying YRC likely will counter sue in the case.

ABF Freight System Inc., the largest subsidiary of YRC Worldwide rival Arkansas Best Corp., filed a lawsuit this week against YRC and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. ABF contends YRC's latest union concessions, as well as two previous rounds of concessions, violate the collective bargaining agreement governing the bulk of employees at unionized U.S. trucking companies, tilting the playing field in YRC's favor in terms of costs. Full Story....

YRC Worldwide Reports Third Quarter Results

YRC National Tonnage up 1.2% and YRC Regional up 2.1% from Second Quarter 2010

Achieved Significant Progress on Comprehensive Recovery Plan

YRC Worldwide Inc. today reported its third quarter 2010 results. For the third quarter ending September 30, 2010, the company announced a net loss of $62 million and a $1.33 loss per share on average outstanding diluted shares of 46.5 million. As a comparison, the company reported a net loss of $159 million and a $66.66 loss per share in the third quarter of 2009 with average outstanding diluted shares of 2.4 million. The numbers of shares and the per share amounts for all periods presented within this release reflect the 1:25 reverse stock split which was effective on October 1, 2010.

"We are pleased with the continued support of our customers and our employees who remain focused on delivering results," stated Bill Zollars, Chairman, President and CEO of YRC Worldwide. "We have achieved significant progress on our comprehensive recovery plan with the ratification of our new labor contract and the renewal of our ABS facility." Full Story.......

ABF Drivers Boyer, McCarty, McElwaney and Miller Named America's Road Team Finalists

Four ABF Freight System, Inc., drivers are among the 33 professional truck drivers named as finalists to become Captains on the 2011-2012 America's Road Team, selected by the American Trucking Associations. Named finalists were ABF drivers David Boyer of Wytheville, Virginia, Nate McCarty of Denver, Tim McElwaney of Atlanta, and Chad Miller of Chicago. McElwaney is a city driver; the other ABF finalists are road drivers.

"I am proud of each of these drivers and the contributions they have made to our industry while serving on ABF's Road Team. Our finalists were selected by the ATA for the 2011-2012 America's Road Team Captains from what we believe is the best group of drivers in the transportation industry. Their professionalism, dedication to safe driving, and commitment to quality exemplify the highest standard in the industry," said ABF Vice President of Transportation, Shannon Lively.

Finalists move on to the final round, January 9-11, 2011, in Arlington, Va. The competition will culminate with a new team of America's Road Team Captains receiving their signature navy blue Road Team blazers. The Captains then begin their two-year terms working to share the industry's message of safety, essentiality and sustainability with the motoring public, news media, business and community leaders, public officials and their fellow drivers across the nation.

"America's Road Team Captains are an incredible voice for the trucking industry. They represent the best of the best," said ATA President and Chief Executive Officer Bill Graves. "The professional drivers selected as finalists have remarkable safety records, are passionate about the industry, and are dedicated to making our nation's highways safer. ATA is honored to have these professional drivers participate in this prestigious selection process to become a Captain of the America's Road Team."

New rules for truck drivers returning after stroke

Commercial truck and bus drivers who suffer a stroke should wait at least a year and be able to pass a driving test and a series of health assessments before getting in front of a wheel again, according to a U.S. expert panel.

The panel, appointed by the Department of Transportation, also recommends annual check-ups on health and driving records as a requirement for continued driving.

According to the American Heart Association, nearly 800,000 Americans have a stroke every year. In addition, there are between 200,000 and 500,000 "mini-strokes," so-called transient ischemic attacks or TIAs, which usually last less than an hour. Full Story....

FedEx among big winners in midterm elections

One of the biggest corporate winners after Tuesday night's watershed Republican House victories will be Memphis-based FedEx Corp., which can abandon fears that pending legislation will upset its existing labor relations.

"I think they dodged a bullet," said David Schaffer, a Vienna, Va.-based aviation consultant and former counsel to the House aviation subcommittee.

Schaffer said it's still possible the lame-duck Congress could pass a new, multiyear Federal Aviation Administration bill, but "I don't think it could pass with the FedEx provision in it."

FedEx has deployed an army of lobbyists in recent years and established a public relations campaign to defeat the provision that would have reclassified some FedEx employees under the National Labor Relations Act, allowing them to form local bargaining units that could strike and upset the company's reputation for reliability. Full Story........

TEAMSTERS: ABF LAWSUIT FRIVOLOUS AND WITHOUT MERIT

On Monday, November 1 the Teamsters Union received copies of a grievance and a lawsuit filed by ABF Freight Systems, Inc. (ABF) in federal court in Arkansas against the Teamsters and other parties, alleging that the agreements the union entered into and that its members ratified with YRC Worldwide, Inc. violate the National Master Freight Agreement (NMFA).

“After initial review of the ABF lawsuit and grievance, the Teamsters Union finds each of them to be frivolous and without merit,” said Brad Raymond, Teamsters Union General Counsel. “The Teamsters will vigorously defend against the lawsuit and grievance and will withhold further comment until we have thoroughly reviewed the documents.”

ABF Freight System, Inc. Files Legal Actions Against Teamsters, YRC Companies

ABF SEEKS IMMEDIATE RESOLUTION, FINANCIAL DAMAGES FOR VIOLATIONS OF NATIONAL COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT IN AN AMOUNT ESTIMATED TO BE APPROXIMATELY $750 MILLION

ABF DEMANDS LEVEL PLAYING FIELD CONSISTENT WITH INTENT AND PURPOSE OF NMFA

ABF Freight System, Inc., the largest subsidiary of Arkansas Best Corporation and a leading less-than-truckload transportation company, has filed legal actions today against the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and other parties including several YRC Worldwide subsidiaries for violation of the National Master Freight Agreement, the collective bargaining agreement covering most unionized trucking employees in the country.

ABF today filed a grievance under the NMFA and also an accompanying lawsuit, naming as parties the International Brotherhood of Teamsters; the Teamsters National Freight Industry Negotiating Committee; Teamsters Locals 373 (Fort Smith, AR) and 878 (Little Rock, AR), individually and as representatives of a class of all Teamsters Locals that are parties to the NMFA; YRC Inc.; New Penn Motor Express Inc.; USF Holland Inc.; and Trucking Management, Inc.

"It is ABF's firm belief that the three rounds of concessions granted to YRC – with the latest deal just ratified last week – by the IBT are in violation of the NMFA that has been in effect since April 2008," said Wesley Kemp, President and Chief Executive Officer, ABF Freight System, Inc. "The NMFA applies equally to every company that signed it and quite simply, with these three amendments, it does not do that. We need a long-term, industry-wide solution that is fair to all NMFA parties.

We have the obligation to our employees, to our customers and to Arkansas Best shareholders to enforce our rights under the NMFA and compete on the same playing field with our industry peers."

The legal actions, filed administratively under the contract and in federal court in Arkansas, explain in detail how the defendants violated the NMFA in 2009 and 2010 by entering into concessionary side agreements with YRC Companies to the exclusion of ABF and other companies signatory to the NMFA. These agreements led to ongoing significant wage and benefit reductions and other economic concessions that were applied only to YRC Companies, and not ABF. The third and latest amendment to the NMFA is expected to "provide further wage, benefit and work rule changes that are expected to generate an average of $350 million in annual savings through the end of the extended agreement," according to YRC Worldwide Inc.'s 8-K report, filed on September 29.

ABF, with more than 8,000 union employees, asserts in its claims that these concessionary agreements were unlawful, unfair and inconsistent with the plain language, intent and purpose of the NMFA, and that they resulted in a substantial competitive disadvantage for ABF.

ABF, believing that the grievance procedure of the NMFA is fundamentally flawed by reason of conflicts of interest on the part of both labor and employer representatives who normally would be impaneled to hear ABF's grievance, seeks a legal determination to have the court create an appropriate grievance review committee to hear the grievance and resolve the dispute, or to have the contract amendments benefiting only YRC declared null and void by the court, as required by the NMFA. ABF also seeks financial damages in an amount estimated to be approximately $750 million by the time the NMFA is set to expire on March 31, 2013.

ABF Freight System, Inc. is represented by Littler Mendelson. A full copy of the legal pleadings can be found at www.ABFLegalAction.com.

Teamsters accept more concessions at YRC Worldwide

Once again, YRC Worldwide Inc.’s drivers and dockworkers have accepted concessions aimed at keeping the struggling trucking company viable into 2011.

With results of a much awaited vote released Saturday, the Teamsters said union members at YRC’s operating units approved the extended agreement by healthy margins.

At national carrier YRC Inc. and regional unit USF Holland, 62 percent voted to ratify and 38 percent voted against it.

At New Penn, a YRC regional carrier in the Northeast, the vote was 69 percent approving the agreement and 31 percent rejecting the pact.

The concessions extend the union’s national contract with YRC to March 2015 and maintain 15 percent wage cuts accepted last year, when workers voted on two occasions to ratify cost-cutting proposals. Full Story.....

Teamster Freight Members Ratify YRCW Restructuring Plan

Agreement Is Aimed At Saving More Than 25,000 Jobs

Teamster members who work at YRC Worldwide Inc.'s operating companies YRC, Holland and New Penn have ratified the "Restructuring Plan" that is aimed at saving more than 25,000 union jobs. YRC and Holland members ratified the agreement by a 62 percent to 38 percent margin, while members at New Penn ratified the agreement by a 69 to 31 percent margin. About 67 percent of YRCW Teamsters cast ballots.

The ratified Restructuring Plan is the product of months of discussions and difficult negotiations by the Teamsters National Freight Industry Negotiating Committee (TNFINC) in consultation with Teamster local unions. On September 29, leaders from Teamster freight local unions unanimously recommended to send the plan to a membership vote. Union members voted by mail over the past three weeks and ballots were counted this weekend.

"We realize that in ratifying this Restructuring Plan our members will continue to make huge sacrifices, which have been very difficult for our members and their families during the worst economic recession in decades," said Tyson Johnson, Director of the Teamsters National Freight Division. "However, we firmly believe this plan is the only hope for saving our members' jobs as this recession continues to cause so much hardship."

"As painful as the sacrifices are on an individual level, our members understood that by approving this Restructuring Plan they would be setting the stage for the company's existing lenders to do their part and make this company an attractive investment for new investors and preserve their jobs," Teamsters General President Jim Hoffa said. "As this restructuring moves forward over the next three to six months, the union will be involved every step of the way."

During negotiations with the company, the union received input from a team of experienced, respected and independent financial and restructuring experts it assembled over the past year to verify the company's financial situation and to assist in developing this restructuring plan. Through this lengthy and on-going process, the union has reviewed numerous financial and operational reports on YRCW and determined that this Restructuring Plan is the only avenue to save and hopefully grow the respective companies it operates.

The Restructuring Plan modifies and extends the current National Master Freight Agreement (NMFA) and Supplemental Agreements for a two-year period until March 31, 2015 and provides for annual wage and benefit increases including a resumption of partial pension contributions beginning in June 2011.

In addition to participating in the debt reduction and equity investment discussions to create a sustainable company, the union will require equity ownership of the company and, at a minimum, one additional board seat. The plan also calls for continued equal sacrifice—management and non-union employees are required to participate in cost sharing in an equal manner. The plan has additional compensation improvements for Teamster members based on the company's future operating performance.

Truck tonnages shift to gains in September

The trucking industry shifted back into drive in September, trying to distance itself from a disastrous August that generated the largest month-to-month tonnage drop in more than a year.

Trade group American Trucking Associations said Tuesday that its advance index of for-hire truck tonnage gained 1.7 percent last month, compared with a revised 2.8 percent drop in August. The index is adjusted for seasonal variations. Full Story.....

YRC Worldwide lenders extend deadline ahead of union vote result

YRC Worldwide Inc. will have some breathing room with its lenders, even if the tentative concessions agreement with its union fails to pass later this week.

In a securities filing Tuesday, the Overland Park-based trucking company said the recent renewal of a key piece of financing won’t expire immediately if the International Brotherhood of Teamsters votes down a third round of wage and benefit concessions.

Instead, the company would have until Jan. 10 to have the agreement in force, providing time for a possible revote if necessary. Full Story......

YRC Worldwide Renews Asset-Backed Securitization Facility

YRC Worldwide Inc. today announced an amendment to renew its asset-backed securitization facility.

"We appreciate the continued support of our ABS lenders as demonstrated by the early renewal of this important 364-day accounts receivable borrowing facility," said Sheila Taylor, Executive Vice President and CFO of YRC Worldwide.

The amended ABS has a facility commitment of $325 million as compared to the company's usage of $195 million at September 30, 2010.

New maturity date is October 19, 2011, subject to ratification and the continued effectiveness of the company's previously announced tentative labor agreement.

Payment of previously deferred interest and fees of approximately $13 million was paid upon renewal.

Payment of the previously negotiated $10 million commitment fee is now payable in two installments of $5 million on March 1, 2011 and $5 million on April 30, 2011. An incremental commitment fee of $5 million is payable on June 30, 2011 for a total commitment fee of $15 million. In addition, the interest rate and letter of credit fee increase by 1%, and the program and administrative fees increase by 0.5%, both on April 30, 2011 and June 30, 2011.

Subsequent to October 20, 2010 the payment of most of the ABS interest and fees will continue to be deferred until March 1, 2011. At that date the estimated deferred amount of approximately $4 million would be payable to the lenders. After March 1, 2011, the company will begin to make cash payments of all ABS interest and fees.

If the company replaces the ABS facility prior to March 1, 2011, then payment of the above $15 million commitment fee and the accrued portion of the above estimated $4 million of deferred interest and fees will be waived. If the company replaces the ABS facility between March 1, 2011 and prior to April 30, 2011, then $10 million of the $15 million commitment fee will be waived, and if the ABS facility is replaced between April 30, 2011 and prior to June 30, 2011, then $5 million of the $15 million commitment fee will be waived.

"As part of our comprehensive recovery plan we intend to seek a replacement facility with an enhanced long-term structure designed to significantly increase our advance rate," said Taylor. "In the interim, our ABS lenders have provided the flexibility we need to support our current business levels with attractive refinancing incentives as we progress through 2011."

New Penn faces forced closure

If Teamsters nix restructuring, the South Lebanon trucking company may close.

New Penn Motor Express's parent company is threatening to close the South Lebanon Township trucking company if Teamsters don't approve a restructuring agreement next week.

"I am hopeful that this proposed Change of Operations ultimately will not be necessary," Jack Peak, YRC Worldwide's senior vice president of labor relations and employment law, wrote in an Oct. 14 letter to Teamsters officials, including Teamsters President James P. Hoffa. "If, however, the Restructuring Agreement is not ratified by New Penn's employees, it will be necessary to convene a special Change of Operations hearing immediately following the (Oct. 29) ratification vote count."

Peak wrote that YRC Worldwide companies "are at a critical juncture in the restructuring of their businesses and operations." Full Story.......

YRC hauls a full load of uncertainty

For the third time in less than two years, YRC Worldwide Inc. drivers and dock workers are about to decide the fate of the long-troubled trucking company.

Although workers have begrudgingly accepted cuts two previous times to keep YRC afloat, doubts linger about whether concessions will be accepted a third time, despite indications that they’re needed for YRC to survive.

The U.S. economy is not at its nadir as it was in 2009 when YRC workers accepted the previous cutbacks. But if the company has to liquidate now, the slow recovery won’t help YRC’s employees find new jobs, some analysts and industry executives said. Full Story.....

YRC Worldwide Provides Third Quarter Update

Positive third quarter 2010 adjusted EBITDA in excess of second quarter 2010

YRC Worldwide Inc. today provided an update on its expected third quarter results including:

For the third quarter of 2010, tonnage per day for YRC National and YRC Regional was 1.2% and 2.1%, respectively, higher than the tonnage per day for the second quarter of 2010. Revenue per shipment during the third quarter of 2010 for YRC National and YRC Regional was 1.9% and 3.7%, respectively, higher than the third quarter of 2009.

The company expects third quarter 2010 positive adjusted EBITDA within a range of $42 million to $46 million. For the second and third quarters of 2010, the company expects cumulative adjusted EBITDA within a range of $82 million to $86 million, which exceeds the $50 million covenant level required by its credit agreement. The company expects a third quarter 2010 operating loss within a range of $18 million to $22 million. As a comparison, the company reported an operating loss of approximately $35 million for the second quarter of 2010 when excluding an $83 million non-cash benefit from an adjustment to the fair value of the March 2010 union employee equity award.

At September 30, 2010, the company's estimated cash and cash equivalents were $115 million, restricted revolver reserves were $123 million, and unrestricted availability was $46 million, for a total of $284 million. During the third quarter of 2010 the company repaid $25 million of outstanding borrowings on its asset-backed securitization facility.

Third Quarter Earnings Call

The company will hold a conference call for the investment community on Friday, November 5, 2010, beginning at 9:30am ET, 8:30am CT. Third quarter earnings will be released the same day, Friday, November 5, 2010, prior to the opening of the market. The conference call will be open to listeners live and by recorded playback via the YRC Worldwide Internet site yrcw.com.

FREIGHT TELECONFERENCE CLEARS UP YRCW RESTRUCTURING QUESTIONS

The Teamsters Freight Division hosted a teleconference the evening of Tuesday, October 5. The call provided the members an opportunity to learn more details about the proposal and to clear up some misconceptions. Below is the agenda for the hour and fifteen minute long meeting. Please click the link below to hear the audio file.

Intro & Opening – Freight Division Director Tyson Johnson

Remarks – General Secretary Treasurer Tom Keegel

Remarks – Carl Barelli, USF Holland Shop Steward, Local No. 41

Review of the Restructuring Plan TNFINC Tyson Johnson, Gordon Sweeton, Brad Raymond

Remarks – General President Jim Hoffa

Review Term Sheet – Glanzer Co, LLC, Michael Glanzer

Economic Rationale – MergeGlobal Inc, John Moses

Questions and Answers

Click here to listen to the audio file

ATA safety panel honors ABF, Dupre, TCW/Tennessee Express

ABF Freight System, Dupré Logistics and TCW/Tennessee Express have been awarded the American Trucking Association’s President’s Trophy for the best overall safety program.

ATA’s Safety Management Council awarded the honors at its Safety and Human Resources National Conference and Exhibition at Rogers, Ark., this week.

The ATA President’s Trophy annual recognizes the three companies whose fleets have been judged to have the best overall safety programs from the Truck and Industrial Safety Contests.

These Contests judge motor carriers from across the U.S. on safety accomplishments and safety records relative to others within their operation type and size and honor them for superior safety achievements, outstanding commitment to industry-wide safety and extensive promotion of safety among all highway users, the ATA said

ABF Freight System of Fort Smith, Ark., won in the 100 million miles annually category, Dupré Logistics of Lafayette, La., won in the 25-100 million miles category and TCW/Tennessee Express won in the under 25 million miles category.

YRC Worldwide triggers reverse-stock split; share price jumps

YRC Worldwide Inc. shares surged, then plummeted Friday after the company executed a reverse-stock split.

Shares for the Overland Park-based company converted from 25 cents a share at the end of trading Thursday to $6.25, reflecting the 1-for-25 share split.
By the end of Friday, however, the share price had fallen 86 cents, or almost 14 percent, to $5.39.

YRC is pursuing a new game plan — including potentially extended union concessions — for getting the company through a multiyear slump. Part of that plan included triggering a 1-for-25 reverse-stock split Friday to cut the ballooning number of shares and boost their value, keeping YRC shares from being delisted.

The split reduced the number of outstanding common shares from 1.2 billion to 48 million. More important, the company wanted to bring its stock price to exceed the benchmark of $1 so it could continue to be listed on the Nasdaq exchange.

YRC has scheduled an Oct. 7 hearing to appeal Nasdaq’s move to delist the stock.
Although the stock price is well above the previous 52-week high, at least one analyst fears that later plans to convert debt into stock might dilute the stock again and had advised clients on Thursday to sell their shares after the reverse-stock split was complete.

Also Friday, Nasdaq temporarily changed YRC’s stock symbol from YRCW to YRCWD. Nasdaq said on its website that the suffix “D” is a new tool indicating “a stock split or some type of reorganization.” The symbol will revert back to YRCW on Oct. 28.

ABF Becomes Only Six-Time Winner of the ATA President's Trophy for Safety

ABF Freight System, Inc. has become the only six-time winner of the transportation industry's most prestigious safety award, the American Trucking Associations President's Trophy. The award was presented during the ATA Safety Management Council's Safety and Human Resources National Conference and Exhibition in Rogers, Ark., September 29, 2010.

"The ATA President's Trophy is the highest safety award available to motor carriers in the United States," said Susan Chandler, ATA executive director. "ABF has been judged most outstanding on the basis of its safety record, programs and community outreach activities."

The President's Trophy is awarded each year to carriers in three categories based on cumulative miles driven annually: under 25 million miles; 25 million to 100 million miles; and more than 100 million miles. ABF now has earned recognition in the more than 100 million miles category in 1984, 1989, 1993, 1998, 2003, and 2010. This year, ABF also placed third in the less-than-truckload category for local carriers of general commodities, 50 million to 100 million miles.

"Naturally, ABF is proud to be recognized again with this prestigious honor. Our reputation is earned by the consistent performance of employees, who bring value to the supply chains of our customers. So it is particularly rewarding to see their efforts recognized as exceptional," said ABF President and Chief Executive Officer Wes Kemp. "Moreover, our customers will be pleased to learn that their supply chain partner has once again earned the admiration of its industry peers."

YRC Worldwide Board of Directors Approves Tentative Labor Agreement and Reverse Stock Split

Agreement designed to improve YRCW long-term market competitiveness and provide for re-entry into multi-employer pension funds

Ratification targeted for completion by late October 2010

YRC Worldwide Inc today announced that its board of directors has approved a tentative agreement with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, and the Teamsters approved submitting the tentative agreement to the company's Teamster represented employees for ratification. The agreement is designed to significantly improve the company's competitive position in the marketplace.

Additionally, the agreement provides for re-entry of the YRCW operating companies into the multi-employer pension plans to which they contribute in a manner that provides important member benefits while maintaining an improved competitive market position for the company. Additional details regarding the terms of the tentative agreement can be found in the Form 8-K current report filed today with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

As previously announced, the ratification of the agreement by company's employees represented by the Teamsters is targeted for completion by late October 2010.

The company plans to amend its certificate of incorporation on September 30, 2010 to implement a reverse stock split with a ratio of 1:25. The reverse stock split will be effective on the NASDAQ exchange on October 1, 2010.

The reverse stock split will reduce the number of authorized common shares to 80 million from the current 2 billion and reduce the number of outstanding common shares to approximately 48 million from the current approximately 1.2 billion.

Zollars to Retire from YRC Worldwide Following Completion of Comprehensive Recovery Plan

YRC Worldwide Inc. announced today that William D. Zollars, chairman, president and chief executive officer, has informed the company's board of directors of his decision to retire from the company upon the successful completion of YRC Worldwide's comprehensive recovery plan. Zollars and the board have agreed that he will retain his current positions through the finalization of the process and until a new CEO is named.

"Upon the successful resolution of many of our recent business challenges, the time would be right for me to hand over the reins to new leadership," said Zollars. "I am particularly proud of all we, as an organization, have accomplished over the past two years. We have faced unprecedented challenges and had to deal with the most difficult economic environment our industry has ever experienced. I am especially grateful to my team and the many stakeholders who partnered with us to put the company on an operationally and financially stable path to recovery. By informing the board now of my decision, we will have sufficient time to identify my successor and ensure a seamless transition to new leadership."

John A. Lamar, lead director for YRC Worldwide, commenting for the board, said, "We are grateful to Bill for his exemplary leadership, first directing the company's business expansion over more than a decade, and most recently switching gears to help navigate the organization through its most challenging period. We are pleased that he will remain at the helm through this process as we work together to identify his successor."

The company said it would seek candidates from both inside and outside the organization.

Zollars, 62, leads one of the largest and most recognizable global transportation providers. He was named to his current position in November 1999. Prior to that, Zollars was president of Yellow Transportation, Inc., a predecessor company of YRCW. He serves on the boards of CIGNA Corporation, Cerner Corporation, The Business Roundtable, National Association of Manufacturers, United Way of Greater Kansas City, American Trucking Associations and The Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota.

TEAMSTERS CALLED ON TO ATTEND HISTORIC MARCH FOR JOBS

One Nation Working Together Rally in Washington on 10-2-10

Teamsters General President Jim Hoffa today urged Teamsters to attend the Oct. 2 march in Washington for jobs, justice and education. Download video.

“On October 2, people who love America and want good jobs will come to Washington to make their voices heard,” Hoffa said. “It’s important that the Teamsters make their presence known at this historic march. We need to Put America To Work and Pull America Back Together.

“I urge Teamsters who can travel to Washington on Saturday to make the effort to reclaim an America where everyone who wants a good job can get one. We’ve moved too far away from that dream.

“Let’s meet in Washington and demand change. When it comes to our national priorities, we need to put people first. Investments in people must come before investments in Wall Street or the big corporations.”

The march is sponsored by One Nation Working Together, a coalition of unions, human rights groups, religious groups, civil rights groups and environmentalists.

For information, contact your local or check the One Nation Working Together website, www.onenationworkingtogether.org.

Growing Support for Change in Board Leadership at FedEx

Teamster Shareholder Proposal for Independent Board Chair Receives High Vote

At FedEx Corporation's annual meeting today the Teamsters' shareholder proposal to appoint an independent board chairman received 35 percent support according to results announced at the meeting. This marks a big leap in investor support for the proposed reform which received 27 percent support in 2009.

Excluding shares held by FedEx founder, Chairman and CEO Fred Smith and his business enterprises, 38 percent of the votes cast were in favor of the Teamsters' proposal—a significant vote for change on the FedEx Board.

"Shareholders are growing tired of Chairman Smith's stranglehold on the FedEx board," said Teamsters General Secretary-Treasurer C. Thomas Keegel. "It's time for independent board leadership at FedEx."

TEAMSTERS AND YRCW REACH TENTATIVE AGREEMENT

The Teamsters National Freight Industry Negotiating Committee (TNFINC) announced today that it reached a tentative agreement with YRCW that sets the foundation for a comprehensive financial restructuring and a viable, sustainable company.

Details of the tentative agreement will be made available to the membership after being reviewed with local union and pension fund leaders next Wednesday, September 29.

“The recession continues to wreak havoc on the trucking industry and threatens our members’ jobs,” said Tyson Johnson, Teamsters Freight Division Director and co-chairman of the TNFINC. “Unfortunately, as workers all across the country know too well, the economy has not improved as quickly as we had hoped. The sluggish economy and smaller customer base leaves us in a position today where we face very, very difficult decisions.”

Additional information will be posted at www.teamster.org as it becomes available.

YRC Worldwide Announces Tentative Agreement with Teamsters

YRC Worldwide Inc. announced today that it has entered into a tentative agreement with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters to address the company's competitiveness, re-entry into multi-employer pension funds and progress toward long-term growth.

Details of the agreement will be made available subject to the required approval by union leadership committees and the company's Board of Directors which are expected next week. Upon required approvals, the agreement will be submitted for ratification by YRCW employees represented by the Teamsters with completion targeted for late October 2010.

"This tentative agreement is an important step toward the completion of our comprehensive recovery plan," said Mike Smid, President-YRC and Chief Operations Officer of YRC Worldwide. "As our business continues to improve, the implementation of this tentative agreement will allow us to continue to provide our customers with a comprehensive portfolio of services that is competitive and reliable."

Teamsters plan update about YRC Worldwide negotiations

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters has scheduled a Sept. 29 meeting to update its local unions and pension fund representatives about ongoing negotiations with YRC Worldwide Inc.

In a notice on the Teamsters’ website, the union also has asked its locals to schedule membership meetings on Oct. 2-3 and/or Oct. 9-10.

The union provided no other details about the talks, saying only that its National Freight Industry Negotiating Committee “continues to meet with YRCW this week to work through issues related to its financial situation.”

A spokeswoman with Overland Park-based YRC didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.

The two sides have been meeting since the summer. YRC seeks to extend the current 18-month waiver of its obligation to contribute to union pension funds as well as other steps to give the trucking company greater financial flexibility.

Arkansas Best gains require union wage cuts, pension reform

The good news is that the most recent analyst report says Fort Smith-based Arkansas Best Corp. may have hit bottom and could see positive earnings in fiscal 2011. But even with that, the economic future of Arkansas Best depends largely on the company’s success in gaining wage and pension relief from Teamsters and Congress, respectively.

Arkansas Best is the parent company of ABF Freight System, a less-than-truckload carrier that is the second-largest in an estimated $29 billion LTL market in the U.S. The company employs about 9,500 nationwide, which includes about 7,000 unionized drivers. Full Story......

ABF Earns Fifth Consecutive Listing on InformationWeek 500

ABF Freight System, Inc., has been cited as an innovator in information technology by InformationWeek magazine, which lists ABF on the 2010 InformationWeek 500. The InformationWeek 500 companies were revealed on September 14, 2010, at a gala awards ceremony during the InformationWeek 500 Conference at the St. Regis Resort in Monarch Beach, Calif.

ABF earned a spot on the 2010 listing for its ongoing efforts to facilitate supply chain management processes through IT innovation. The carrier's Reports Portal, an internal, intranet-based system, was cited as an example.

InformationWeek has identified and honored the nation's most innovative users of information technology with its annual listing, and has tracked the technology, strategies, investments and administrative practices of America's best-known companies. The list is unique among corporate rankings because it spotlights the power of innovation in information technology, rather than simply identifying the biggest IT spenders.

This marks the fifth consecutive year that ABF has earned a place on the list. "In collaboration with our customers, ABF has developed the best shipping tools in the transportation industry. We are proud to see our efforts again validated by this recognition for IT innovation," said Roy Slagle, ABF senior vice president, sales and marketing. "ABF customers expect time and money-saving applications through IT-based innovation, and ABF consistently meets their needs by developing innovative, user-centric applications."

Working Toward Comprehensive YRCW Restructuring That Protects Teamsters

The Teamsters Union is reviewing cost savings presented by YRCW to make sure they are necessary to address business needs.

Those cost savings will only be submitted for ratification if certain conditions are met that help protect the interests of Teamsters and if the effort supports a comprehensive restructuring that will give the company the best opportunity to survive over the long term.

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