More on the Trucker's Strike/Shutdown
(this information has been moved to the bottom of this page due to the large number of comments received since April 1st, 2008)

Trucker brings in anonymous flyer calling for another shutdown on April 28, 29 and 30 Click Here

I hope this makes it easier for everyone to work together, and I will be logging in to the forum myself every chance I get, and still updating this site with information.

Thank you all, and I hope to see you on the forum.

Dave

Reply: Hi Sam. Although I was still a kid during the 60s and 70s, I do remember seeing the strike on TV, and it made a MAJOR impact on me.  Seeing how Drivers worked together to stand up for themselves was one of the reasons I wanted to become a Trucker.  Unfortunately there are too many Drivers out here today that got behind the wheel because other jobs were scarce, or they bought in to the hype of 'drive the big rigs, see the country, be your own boss, make tons of money' the trucking schools sold them on TV commercials.  While there are some that have the 'Trucking Fever', far too many lack the true passion that the old timers have, or had. While I'm somewhere between a young pup and 'Hey Noah, wha'cha building over there', I have always been passionate about being a Trucker.  I hold the term near and dear to my heart, and I am proud of what I do to the point of almost coming to blows in the past (even with my own family members) when someone used the term in a derogatory way. Even the Truck Stops won't use the name Truck anymore, as most of them call themselves travel centers or travel stops now.  I guess if other Drivers shared the same passion that so many other Drivers that have written in here do, myself included, we might not be in the situation we're in now.  I really wish I knew how to get them to become passionate about this industry.

From: Cathy
I am suggesting that we all go with the anonymous flyer and shut down the 28,29, and 30th or for the rest of the week for that matter! A lot of truck drivers and citizens will be in DC on the 28th. The MOMENTUM will be strong! I believe that would be the best time to show them we are not joking!
Reply: Cathy's comment has also been posted on the Shut Down Option page.  If you have an opinion about what our next step should be, visit that page and read the information and suggestions there.

From: Samantha
I was just wondering if you heard of this site, www.utda.org
it might make a good add on to your sites info.
Reply: Thank you for the information Samantha. I have contacted them about joining us in our efforts to unite the Trucking websites.

From: TN. TRUCKERS WIFE
I DON'T KNOW IF YOUR AWARE OF THE WEB SITE
"THE AMERICAN DRIVER. COM" IF NOT YOU SHOULD VISIT THERE, THAT IS WHERE THEY ARE ORGANIZING THE NEXT SHUTDOWN
Reply: Hello TN Truckers Wife. Yes, I am aware of the website theamericandriver, and I have spoken to the webmaster on the phone about working together with TDU and other trucking sites to form a United Drivers group of Trucking Websites so that we can all keep in contact and keep our visitors informed. Unfortunately the webmaster there has some personal issues about working with other sites. I won't get into any details, but I was not happy to see them condemning another Trucking site because of some video that they had apparently linked to. Hopefully they will decide to put their personal differences aside some day and help rather than hurt the effort we are all making, and I did let them and other Trucking sites know the invitation is always there to join the United Drivers group of Trucking Websites we are trying to form if they ever change their minds about working together.   As far as them organizing the next shutdown, I hope they find a way to get the word out and organize it a little better than the last one. If I do hear anything definite, whether it be from there site or another site, I will post the information here.

From: TERRIE
MY HUSBAND IS OWNER/OPERATOR AND HEARING ON THE CB OF ANOTHER
STRIKE SET FOR SEPT 1, A 72 HOUR STRIKE. ON THE WEBSITE I AM SEEING MAY 1 AND CAN GET NO OTHER INFORMATION. WE DO NEED TO DO SOMETHING AND YES WE HAVE WRITTEN TO OUR CONGRESSMAN AND ARE WILLING AND READY TO PARTICIPATE IN THE STRIKE. THE LAST ONE HOW-
EVER, WE DIDN'T HEAR ABOUT SOON ENOUGH. WE DO NEED TO STICK TOGETHER, GIVEN ENOUGH PLANNED TIME FOR ALL TO PARTICIPATE AND GET THE CORRECT WORD OUT. WHAT IS GOING ON - MAY OR SEPT?
Reply: I have heard about another strike set for May 1st on the C.B., but nothing about September yet. I am currently trying to get other Trucking websites to join together so we can keep in contact with one another about plans that are being made. I too heard about the April 1st strike at the last minute. Things are a little un-organized right now, but I promise I am doing my best to try and get other webmasters to join together so we can share as much information as possible with all of our visitors rather than operating as individual sites with no form of mutual communication.

This was a reply I received in response to a thank you I sent to igtransportation.com for adding a link to TDU on their website. I felt that what is says is important enough to post here rather than keep it to myself:
Hello David,
The pleasure is all ours. We are trying to promote your web site and more precisely the idea that represents among drivers and owner-operators, so we can get their support- the more the better. As I said in recent publication on truckdriversunited.com- we can't thank you enough for the time and effort spent to create and maintain said website, the purpose of witch is to get us together- this is how I see it.
I was thinking that with your website we can get enough brave and forward looking people, so we can all do something about the current situation that we are all in.
Driving around the country not long ago, I've seen hundreds of slogans on trucks and trailers in different forms, shapes and colors basically all saying the same thing :" Without Trucks America Stops " Every time I've seen such proclamation- I knew that I was a tiny part of that giant and strong unity and I was proud to be just that- tiny part of something huge and unstoppable called "truck driver". Now I see things different, hoping that it is just me and I'm wrong. Based on the events that went by April 01. 2008 and the lack of any such events thereafter, I'm not sure that "...Without Trucks..." will ever happen. I don’t see $2.00 per gallon prices. We all know by now that America needs to stop and rethink how their food or clothes or toys arrived to the local store and who brought it there, but apparently we are not good enough to stand together, so we can show it. I'm starting to believe that we will never see all Drivers United. We are good on talking, putting stickers on our trucks and trailers, but that is about it. Every driver with enough intellect to pass the CDL test is aware- I'm sure about that, that we are going down, the the money are getting harder and harder to earn, the miles are getting longer, the presents for the kids and wives are getting smaller and cheaper, if any (wives or presents). The strong respect once people had for, and the privilege to be called, truck driver no longer exist. It is not a privilege anymore and there is no respect. Nowadays It is the same as any other job out there. Sadly me, you and all other drivers on the road are aware that it is a bit different job than say flipping burgers at your local fast food restaurant, although we will be there shortly if we follow the same downhill that we are now. The words truck driver now sound different than, say 10 years ago. It is the sad, stupid, ugly, down to the earth truth, and we are not capable of changing or reversing the path we are on, no matter how beautiful, colorful or how many stickers we are attaching, nor where we put them. Apparently It needs more than that and we don't have it in us, or am I wrong? We need to change all of it, otherwise we will still have occasional some 30-60 trucks doing something that they thing will help, every once in a while on different locations around the country at different times. There will be reporters to report in the evening news that the drivers did in fact try to show to the rest of the world that something is not right and 50, 60, may be even 200 trucks went on strike somewhere, for couple of hours and that will be it. 2-3 minutes of the news block, 2-3 minutes of attention, some thoughts:" -those guys I'm seen on the screen are in kind of a bad situation" and that will be it. It is it, so far and no changes on the horizon to be seen.
Enough said. I'm proposing to prove myself wrong, or to have clear idea when should I go to the closest fast food restaurant to secure an application ( no disrespect ). So we are planning to stop our operations on April 28, 29, 30. The general idea is to see how the brokers will sell their cargo without us. We hope by doing that, our voice will be heard and somebody may decide to put a limit on their earnings or do something about the fuel and it's connections to the drivers salary. (not to mention couple of carriers surprised by the good rates for their hauling these 3 days). The way I see it, we need to organize and be effective and there should be enough time for it. The dates are based on the flyer that was brought to us from driver with unknown author - hopping that we are not the only one to received it and planning on strike. I will ask for your support to find a space in your site and to publish something about that - I think that with the traffic on your site there will be others - desperately needed, that will stop talking and do something about all of us in that part of the fence. Let's hope that we have enough time to spread the word, and more importantly - the guts to make a difference. We have 12 trucks currently under our authority - not much, but we have good friends ready - total of 70 trucks that we are communicating with and their promise to comply with those dates. Tomorrow will be more trucks I'm sure, and your help is invaluable to spread the word around. Big THANK YOU in advance, knowing that you know, that I don't have to thank you - You need this as much as we do and as much as any company driver or owner-operator out there - at home or on the road.
Milen
Reply: I haven't seen the flyer, but I will always make space for any information I can get. Hopefully there are other Drivers that have seen the same flyer, and are making copies of them and spreading them around.

From: Victoria
I have been a truck driver for ten years now. I have to say that I have seen a big change in just those ten short years. I have noticed a more "me" attitude from drivers. I would like to know what changed everything? Year after year drivers get further and further apart. Hey, aren't we all in this together to accomplish the same thing? I have gotten to the point now where I can't stand to turn on my C. B. anymore it's worse than an elementary playground. All the name calling and fighting among people who are out to do the same thing. Everyone knows why they are out here. Don't kid yourselves if you think it is for any other reason than to make money. Sure the list of Why you stay out here can be as long as your arm but the main reason is the money. So with that one common link between us all can't we just put our personal differences aside, even if just momentarily, so that we can present a united front to everyone. In these rough times whether your are an Owner Operator or a Company driver we are all feeling the crunch from these high fuel prices in more ways than one. If we were to do a nation wide shut down, one that would actually do some good, then we all need to ban together get the word out and be a little more organized about it next time. Get some national air time either by way of radio, newspaper, or television. Put people in the truck stops with flyers telling everyone about it. Quite frankly I have heard drivers talking about a strike since I started driving. So please forgive me when I say I don't take what drivers say about that subject to heart anymore. I would be more than happy to back this industry 100% with a shutdown, strike, or protest if I could know for sure that it was something that was real and not just "trucker stories". I have already said more than I intended and I know that I have taken up quite a bit of your time and for that I apologize. I am just very passionate about making this industry what it use to be. Something to be very proud to be a part of.
Thanks,
Victoria Ferrier
Reply: Hi Victoria. I agree with everything you say except the part about us doing what we do for the money. After almost 30 years behind the wheel, I've come to the realization that being a Trucker isn't a job, a career, or even a lifestyle... It's an addiction! I am working to organize other Trucking websites so that we are all working together rather than on our own to share information with our visitors. Unfortunately, there are a few differences of opinion still that we are trying to work through.

From: Gilbert
Hello, my name is Gilbert Arrazolo and I was trying to organize truckers in Houston, Texas. We made the news on April 2nd and it seemed like we had the support of about 15 truckers willing to convoy into Houston the following morning. However, the next morning only 4 were still there and after driving around the truck stops we only gathered another four. I decided not to do the convoy because 8 truckers would be looked at as a couple of troublemakers.
I heard every excuse for not joining us. There were hundreds of truckers at the truck stops in East Houston. There was also a lot of negativity and even racism expressed over the CB radio. I'm Mexican and I had Anglos and African Americans in the group.
Until truckers are willing to unite despite skin color I think our industry will go down the toilet. We had a television crew and I was approached by Houston Police Department to see if we needed an escort into Houston. There were about six trooper cars. Ultimately, I think truckers are just not ready to unite and face the oil companies. I also think truckers, like the rest of America, prefer for someone else to come in and take care of their problems.
This problem is not going away. OOIDA, Teamsters, and ATA have abandoned the independent owner operator. We need to unite. If a united front does not work, I am an attorney and willing to litigate our claims. It is my impression that the oil shortage is a scam and the diesel pricing is nothing more than price fixing by a monopolizing group of oil companies, which is an illegal tort.
Anyway, if anyone has ideas, please let me know. I'll be waiting in Houston to see if we gather any momentum.
Reply: Hello Gilbert. I am afraid that you are correct in your statement that we aren't ready to unite yet, whether it be to face the oil companies, or for any other reason. I also agree with you that most people prefer for someone else to come in and take care of their problems rather than take a stand themselves, and that the OOIDA, Teamsters and the ATA aren't much help to the OO, or even to the Company Truck Driver. As far as prejudice, skin color isn't the only problem we have. Some of the other Trucking sites don't want to join together because of their own personal prejudices against TDU and other Trucking sites that don't meet their personal approval.  Although I still have a long way to go, I am trying to work on some kind of individual organization in each state and even in each city where we can all work with one another. Unfortunately, this is going to require volunteers that are willing to spend a lot of time knocking on their neighbors doors passing out flyers, publishing their home phone numbers online to take calls, and making long distance calls without any kind of reimbursement or compensation. That means a lot of very serious, and VERY dedicated people. As you can see, if I ever can accomplish this, I have my work cut out for me. If I can accomplish this, when we need an attorney I promise I won't hesitate to contact you. Um... you do volunteer work don't you?

From: Tyson
We are all for the strike, please keep us informed on when and how this is going to take place. We are an o/o and the prices of fuel are killing us!!
Thank you for your site!!
Reply: You're welcome Tyson, and thank you for writing in. I am trying to get as much information as I can about what different groups are planning, and trying to get those groups organized so we can all communicate with one another and will all know in advance what to plan for.  So far there's been a lot of resistance for some reason.  So far getting some webmasters to agree and work together is as hard as getting some Truckers to work together.

From: DARREN
FIRST I WOULD LIKE TO THANK DAVE FOR HIS EFFORTS. PEOPLE AS WE GET READY TO ELECT A NEW PRES. I THINK WE NEED TO PAY A LOT MORE ATTENTION TO WHO WE PUT IN THE HOUSE AND SENATE FOR THEY ARE THE THE ONES ABLE TO MAKE THE CHANGES. IF YOU READ THE COMMENTS FROM THE REP FROM WV. HE SAYS THINGS LIKE SUPPLY AND DEMAND, THE RIGHT TO CHARGE WHAT THEY (oil co) WANT THESE ARE COMMENTS MADE BUY PEOPLE WHO DON'T HAVE TO PAY THERE OWN WAY. WE NEED TO UNITE TOGETHER. HOW ABOUT WE PARK OUR CARS AND TRUCKS FOR 24HRS IN GAS STATIONS AND TRUCK STOPS ACROSS THE NATION AND DO NOT BUY DROP OF FUEL? WHAT EVER WE DO WE MUST DO TOGETHER AS AMERICANS. EVERY THING WE DO DEPENDS ON THE TRUCKING IND. PS I'M NOT A TRUCK DRIVER. THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO ARE MOST OF ALL O/O I HOPE YOU SURVIVE THIS INJUSTICE. DARREN
Reply: Thank you Darren. Unfortunately I haven't heard any of the potential presidents even mention the topic of fuel prices. They are all multi-millionaires, so I would imagine that all three of them have a hard time grasping the concept of working for a living, let alone living paycheck to paycheck as fuel prices and grocery prices continue to climb each day.

From: Marisa
I'm an independent documentary filmmaker and organizer. In light of the perpetual war in Iraq a shutdown is absolutely necessary. We need to stop the government at the wheels of production! I support you in all of your efforts. Let me know how I can help.
-In struggle,
Marisa
Reply: Hello Marisa. Well, about all I know about the film industry is if I lose the remote control for my TV, I'm stuck watching whatever is on because I can't figure out how to change the channel. Seriously though, I would LOVE for someone with your experience to make a documentary about the REAL day to day life of a Trucker rather than the 'hate' films that have aired in the past. My face would probably scare people on film, but I know I'd have a few things to point out that many people outside of the industry aren't even aware of.

From: John
I was just reading your statements about freight rates and drivers pay, and it truly is a sad state of affairs. Based on your stated average of .34 per mile, I have made out a lot better hauling fruit in Florida, doing 3K miles on busy weeks and being home at night. RACER
Reply: What you say is very true John, but those rates were the average quoted to me by various drivers over a year ago now. Also, you have to remember that those are MINIMUM rates since there is no regulation or minimum wage for any Trucker. Like everything else on this site, those figures are based on legislation that is needed to revamp the entire Trucking industry, including all of the other issues I have mentioned on this site, including the mandatory detention pay directly from the shippers and receivers to the Driver (company and OO) when they delay a truck at their dock for an unreasonable amount of time. When we look at the big picture, there's a lot more that needs to be fixed than just fuel costs, freight rates, and Drivers pay to help get the cost of transporting freight by truck under control so that Drivers can make a decent income without driving retail prices sky high.

From: Jim
First I will tell all of you the people most responsible for our problems is ourselves. Ah the hell you say. Well its true, if we as individuals can't put our personal needs aside for 1 week and EVERYONE shut this country down then any shut down by us o\o (independents, uncontrollables) is going to be fruitless. J.B. Hunt, England, Heartland, Werner, Swift, all look at our efforts as a way for them to profit more. Company drivers need to get off their butts and join in. Reasons for them to join the cause, they are paying somewhere for the fuel either in retail sales or electric prices gas, durable goods, and so on. The following are quotes from company drivers I have spoken to, "I have bills to pay cannot shut down"," its not going to help who am I to join in but 1 person"," I don't pay for the fuel I just drive it". So why aren't they joining. FEAR that big companies are going to blackball them, fire them take there lively hood away. THEY CAN'T!!!!!!!!!!!!
The following quote came from an o\o which I personally found to be offensive to all of us. YOUR JUST BAD BUSINESS PEOPLE. I disagreed with this comment but he insisted the reasons for our demise is "WE ARE BAD BUSINESS PEOPLE" no other reasons were offered by this o\o.
There isn't enough trucks on the road now to cover all the freight that needs to moved daily, SO A COMPANY DRIVER IN FEAR OF LOOSING HIS JOB SHOULDN'T BE.
As an o\o I personally feel calling the government is a waste of time they already know our situation they helped it get like this.
The only answer is to SHUT DOWN PARALYZE THE COUNTRY AND THE OIL INDUSTRY. Oh does anyone know if the following is true. Did George Bush state that if we all shut down we would be violating the the Terrorist Act? What everyone else can strike but if truckers did it it terrorism? 12 million illegal alien banded together for 1 day and businesses lost a lot of money. And they are still working here. Why can't 4 or 5 million truckers do it for 3 to 5 days?
Reply: Hello Jim. I agree with everything you say, and trying to get the big companies themselves on board is as hopeless since they operate on a volume basis. That is why I try to make the point that unless we look at making changes that will benefit the entire Trucking industry rather than ones that will only benefit OOs, Company Drivers will have no reason to join in any shutdown, protest, or rally.  As far as the comment Bush was suppose to have made, I haven't heard about it from anyone else, but it wouldn't surprise me if he did.  After all, the federal government has violated our civil rights many times before, and they don't appear to have any qualms about continuing to do so on a regular basis.  The point you make about the illegal's being able to ban together is valid, and it is sad that they were able to accomplish something we as American's don't seem capable of doing.

From: Supporter
I have been thinking about the gas problem a lot, so since the strike/sit out didn't help much. Instead of saying not to buy gas or to park your trucks( which no one can really afford) Why not force the gas stations to start a gas war? this can be done with all drivers and not just truckers. Why not list a few gas stations to not buy gas from. This will force them to lower there prices. If we do this several times with several different stations they are going to have no chose but to start gas wars in prices. and in order to get our business back they will have to lower the prices. Tell me what you think.
Reply: I do know the owner of a gas and diesel station in my area, and his profits on each gallon of fuel aren't that impressive. He gets a tanker in each week, and the price he pays increases as the price of oil increases. I'm not sure any of the independent gas stations could actually lower their prices very much and stay in business. Remember, there were about 30 different oil refineries during the gas wars of the '70s, but now there are only five. I think trying to figure out a way to get to the oil companies themselves is our only hope of making any kind of change since they have been able to monopolize the industry.

From: Joe
Thank god the back bone of America is standing up, I am not a truck driver but my dad has been for 20 years. Truckers today I hope are as American as they used to be many years ago, back then they were the ones helping stranded motorist, bringing the money home and making America the land of the free. I will park on the road right along with you. Truckers are the only hope us Americans have to make things they way they used to be, you run this country please stand up and help.
Reply: Thank you for your support Joe. Things have changed quite a bit over the last few years, especially when it comes to the average Trucker's attitude. Instead of trying to work together, more Drivers have the 'I'm only looking out for myself' attitude these days, and that is one of the reasons it is so hard to get them to join together. Most drivers I talk to on the road about TDU think I'm wasting my time, and maybe I am, but I am still trying, and with the help of people like you and everyone else that has visited this site and helped to spread the word, I still believe that we can make a change to help improve not only the Trucking industry, but the economic situation in this country as well.

From: Mike
I am not a truck driver, but my Dad was for over 40 years, as well was all of my Uncles (They have all since passed away) I grew up with my dad being a truck driver and used to ride with him every chance I got...a lot of great memories.
I have nothing but great respect for all the honest, hard working drivers out there and will do what ever I can to help OUR cause.
I have been in the Marines for the past 16 years and am often told "Thank you for your service", I would like to take this moment to tell all of you "Thank you for your service" because this Nation depends on your service just as much as it does my service. Semper Fi. (Always Faithful)
Reply: Thank you Mike, that was a very moving statement. Although I have driven Trucks since I was a teenager and have never been in the military, I do have the greatest respect for the men and women that do put on the uniforms of our Armed Services. As you say, this is OUR cause, not only the Truckers, but the American people.

From: Melissa
Is the rally for dc on the 12 or 28th we are getting mixed messages. When is the convoy to Indianapolis? I love what everyone is trying to do. Let's all get a little more organized and specific on dates. Please reply to me to let me know when we will take action against these thieves in congress.
Reply: Hello Melissa. Don't feel alone.  I can't get a straight answer about what's going on myself. I have been trying to get some straight information, but as you point out, whoever is setting these dates and planning the shutdowns, protests and rallies aren't making it easy. I am working with other websites to try and get us all working together rather than on our own so that we can get some kind of organization and keep all of our sites up to date on what is happening. So far it's been an uphill battle since some sites don't want to work together, but I'm working on it, so keep your fingers crossed.

From: Teresa
You know someone told me that on fox news one of the analyst or think tanks they had on there called all of the truckers that were on strike blue collar terrorist. It seems to me all the news organizations are downplaying this whole shutdown or maybe they have been told by Washington to not air much about it. I don't know it just seems really odd to me that this shutdown didn't get more coverage than it did. They all seem to think it's only about fuel prices, but they are not getting it, what about all the fuel surcharges that are not getting to the truckers that are using their fuel to deliver the goods. Everyone needs to be made aware that some of these brokers are not passing the fuel surcharge on to the truckers that make the deliveries and that is suppose to be for whoever used their fuel to deliver the goods. They don't seem to want to acknowledge us in Washington so maybe since it's an election year we should write someone in on the ballots that we can all agree on and not vote for a single one of them. You know maybe someone like blue collar that can maybe identify with the "blue collar terrorist"
Reply: Hi Teresa. The television news has never been a friend to the Truckers. Their stories always seem to focus on the 'danger' we present to the motoring public, or how much the truck's pollute the air. I remember one news broadcast that showed how Truckers had no regard for speed laws by using a radar gun and showing them doing between 60 and 65 mph in a 55 mph speed zone. Of course they made no mention of the fact that every time they showed a truck speeding, cars were passing it on the left and the right like it was sitting still. It seems to me that the television news doesn't think the economic hardships we are all going to be facing soon because of the rising fuel costs and other situations in the industry are entertaining enough to air. As far as putting one of us 'blue collar terrorists' in the White House, just pencil my name in on the ballot. On second thought, don't. I'd make so many oil tycoons and corporate hot shots so mad at me in the first week they'd hire a hit man to take me out.

From: Supporter
Hi, I was reading about the question of taking a vote on how people want to handle this. I know I talked about topix before, however you are able to add polls for people to vote on what ever subject you post. I'm not sure if you are able to start a poll on topix and add the link to your site. but it might be a way to take the poll. you are also able to leave comments on the poll that you post. it's a thought if you get a change take a look and if you need any help email me, I have done a few polls and could set it up if you need me to. Thanks
Reply: Hello Supporter. I have seen the topix forum, but we are trying to use a forum site that is dedicated to Trucking only to prevent other issues from taking the focus off of what we are trying to accomplish. I have been talking to another webmaster that knows a lot more about websites than I do about creating a poll, so we'll see what he can do for us, and I will email you for some information about any scripts that I can use for a poll either here or on a forum.

From: Katherine
I am not a truck driver, I don't even think I know anyone in your fine profession. However, I am 100% behind your plight. I recently read in an article that a truckers strike would "cripple the economy". Hells Bells, aren't we there already? What we need at this point is to shake things up a bit.. go a little Boston Tea Party and results will surly follow. It's the way our ancestors got things done and we should follow suit. I certainly don't want anyone to get hurt---I am concerned there would be rioting at grocery stores and I fear for those poor folks who require medications and medical equipment. If you hardworking ladies and gents do decide to strike please give the general public ample warning and the best of luck to each and everyone of you
Katherine
Reply: Hi Katherine.  Too bad dumping oil in the water would pollute the environment. Maybe if the Washington bureaucrats had a little 'taste' of the fuel we are paying a fortune for (pardon the pun, I couldn't resist), they might get the message.  After all, what do they care how much it costs?  They fill their gas tanks for free on the taxpayers money. 

From: m wagner
I am an owner-opp I will be striking 1-5 or longer. At least big oil will not make any money from me this week. I think our gov is trying to put us out business so it can open the border to Mexican trucks. So we need get organized or our way of life and the way we support our families will be gone.
Reply: I agree.  The government never has supported independent businesses, as they cannot control them like they can the larger ones.  Just look at the effort it took to focus attention on the American farmers and their plight.  Maybe we could get Willie Nelson or someone to sponsor a 'Truck Aid' festival for us.  I know we could sure use it.  Anyone out there know anyone famous that owes them a HUGE favor???

From: Keith
This Has been A Prayer that I keep close to My Heart Every Day & Has been" since I was A little Trucker,
Dear God Above,
Bless this Truck I Drive,
And Help Me Keep Someone Alive,
Be My Mortal Site This Day,
On Streets where Little Children Play,
Bless" My Co-Driver Fast Asleep,
When The Night Is Long & Deep,
Please Keep My Cargo Safe & Sound,
Thru the Hours "Big & Round,
Make My Judgment Sound as Steel,
Be My Hands" Upon The Wheel,
Bless" The Traveler Going Past,
And Teach Them No to Go So Fast,
Give Me Strength For Every Trip,
So" I May care for What They Ship,
And Keep Me Mindful Every Mile,
That Life is Just A Little While,
Amen!!
Drivers" Just Keep in Mind that there are higher Powers out there then CONGRESS" And You're Dispatcher!!
Blacksheep/Lexington N,C
Reply: That is a very nice sentiment Keith.  I believe those are the words to 'The Truckers Prayer' that were sung by Red Sovine and others over the years.  If you haven't heard it put to music yet, do a search for it on one of the music sites.  It's very moving.

From: Cathy
I saw this article, didn't know if you had gotten it yet. Doesn't look like he was much help...but it is news worthy
http://www.wpxi.com/news/15799233/detail.html

From: Tom
The Drivers at K&R Transportation have parked the trucks in support of the O/Os to all the people that parked thank you and to all that didn't support them. Don't cry to us when you are paying $8.00 for milk and $15.00 for a box of cereal....................
Reply: Amen to that.  The government will undoubtedly blame the Truckers for the increase in retail goods soon, but from what a lot of people have said here, there are a lot of American's that are way too intelligent to believe the press releases and other lies that the government tries to feed them.

From: HAROLD
I believe the April 1 SHUTDOWN will have no long term affect , A few INDEPENDENTS AND OWNER OPERATORS EXPRESSED THEIR VIEWS AND PROTEST HOWEVER , I do think this needs to be repeated - LET THE WORD OUT WE NEED TO DO IT AGAIN - ONLY -- we need to set up dates - BRIDGE THE MAJOR HOLIDAYS --
May 1st for Memorial Day
JULY 1 for Independence Day
SEPT 1 for Labor Day
Nov 1 for Election day
SET UP EVENTS ACROSS THE COUNTRY
INCLUDE THE GENERAL PUBLIC -
Everyone who drives or owns a car , pickup , motorcycle SHOULD BE INVOLVED
CALL OUT TO EVERYONE
SUPPLY VS LOWER DEMAND WILL EQUAL LOWER $$ COST AT THE PUMP FOR EVERYONE
I COULD GO ON , but at the risk of being repetitious
ALL OF AMERICA NEEDS TO JOIN TOGETHER -
HECK WE NEED TO JOIN TOGETHER WORLDWIDE
SHOW PETROLEUM SUPPLIES THEY DO NOT HAVE US BY THE SHORTHAIRS
Reply: While it may not have had any direct, long term effect yet, from the looks of what a lot of people are saying here and on the forum, we may have just gotten enough of the American public's attention.  While the people on Capital Hill may just sit back and laugh at us, if enough people across this country start forming individual activist groups and communicate with one another, we may see that what we started will have a major effect before too long.  Remember, the group Parents Against Tired Truckers was started by a small amount of people that went out and started spreading the word about what they wanted.

From: Keith
well its Saturday 4/7/08 did we do any good, the news has quit reporting anything, Do we need to start planning another Shut down, This time one longer than 3 day's,
We need to put Trinity Transport on the BLACK LIST, I think that I was the only Driver that Shut down, I've probably lost that Job,
But I'm not to concerned about it,
There in Lexington N,C Owned By Lane Parker" They Wouldn't Participate in the Shut Down,
I guess that I was the only Driver out of 50 Drivers that Had any Back Bone
Reply: Hi Keith. I think the large number of emails just sent to this site from Non-Truckers showing their support does show that we have accomplished something thus far. While the boys on Capital Hill may be brushing us off, we did get a LOT of people to realize that unless something more is done soon, we are ALL going to suffer from increased fuel and retail prices.  I understand your frustration with Trinity Transport, and I would love to black list them and EVERY OTHER large company that refused to support us, and threatened their drivers if any of them did join in.  I hope if they do fire you for showing your support, you find a better company.

From: Rebecca
I think the key to getting what we want is to have more participation. I think it would be much easier to get widespread solidarity if you made it easy for EVERYONE to participate. My idea is to have a SHUTDOWN FOR ONLY ONE HOUR ON MAY 1ST @ HIGH NOON ON THE SHOULDER OF ANY MAJOR HIGHWAY. Anyone and everyone can participate in this sort of shutdown and nobody has to worry about getting fired, losing money etc. If you could get 80 to 90% of the trucks on the road to pull to the shoulder and shutdown, it would get more attention than a few hundred trucks driving to some destination or just parking in a truck stop somewhere. ALSO, most drivers have cell phones so we could use them to call the local media wherever you are and tell them there's something going on because all the trucks are sitting on the side of the road. We could make their switchboards go CRAZY with calls. Another idea is the rolling billboard that the side of a truck is.. get some large sheet paper and write your grievances in big letters and tape it to the side of the truck. That way when the media helicopters go over (which they will if we get enough participation) then our message will be broadcast on every station coast to coast. I think the place to start is to create solidarity. Once you get most truckers in on the deal and we all see how many of us there really are, I think even the four wheelers might join us because they're sick of these ridiculous fuel prices too. After shutting down for 1 hour, make a promise that next time it will be for 1 day and it will keep increasing until someone starts listening! Anyway, that's my plan.
Well, got to back in the truck tomorrow so thanks for having this website and be safe out there.
Reply: Hi Rebecca. You are 100% CORRECT.  We DO need more participation, not only from Company Truck Drivers, but from the American People.  I think your idea about a one hour, nationwide roadside shutdown is not only excellent, but highly feasible for all of the reasons you list. I wish I knew of some way to communicate with the American people more effectively than I have been able to do here, especially since I can't get online every day. I've been looking at the cost of billboards, but they cost a LOT more than I can afford, especially to get one along most of the major highways in the country to get the message out to everyone about ways we can work together.

From: Curtis
Even though I`m no longer a driver, I stand behind the drivers 100%.
Reply: Thank you Curtis, I'm sure everyone will gladly take all the support they can get right now.  I know I will.

From: Julia
Is there going to be a strike sometime in May 2008? I am part of a small trucking business; we have one truck right now. We WANT to participate in the strike if there is one. We did not know anything about the April 1 strike/slowdown until it was pretty much over.
We are getting eaten alive by the fuel prices which of course, causes us to be out on the road even more hoping to make ends meet before we have to sell.
Please let me know if one is going to take place and we will be in on it. I know that without truckers, this country would collapse and find it so frustrating that the people in charge cant see that the fuel prices and small pay is killing the trucker. Anywho, hope to hear back from you.
Thanks for what you are trying to do.. Jules
Reply: Hi Jules.  You're welcome, and thank you for taking time to write in.  I haven't heard anything about another strike, but as you can see from the amount of support we are getting from the American people that don't drive Trucks, there may end up being more of a public outcry soon that will make our shutdown look tiny in comparison... at least, I hope that's what happens, and it's what I'm working toward.

From: Bobby
I really hate the the truckers have to do this because it is going to affect everyone's jobs, but it is about time they do something. I also wonder what too so long to start this, its been a long time coming.
Reply: Too long I'm afraid, and hopefully, we haven't waited so long that our efforts were fruitless

From: Terri
I want to address something that I feel some may be overlooking. THIS IS NOT JUST ABOUT TRUCKERS, IT'S ABOUT EVERYONE HERE IN THIS COUNTRY THAT OWNS A VEHICLE! I support the truckers 100% as I stated in my other posts. BUT, the truckers can't do this by themselves. They need everyone's support and to get on board. If everyone on this forum would spread the word, stop buying gas, write your congressman, and your local news agencies that's a start. I would be for a rally on Washington. Can you imagine all those snooty people in our government having to contend with a bunch of irate people over gas prices? This is an issue that every American should be passionate about because it's not going to get any better if we don't take a very stern stand. You said you liked my "enthusiasm". Well, thank you, but this is an issue that I feel very strongly about, and like I said earlier, I have a family member that is a owner/operator, and I know the struggles you face in the trucking business. God Bless you all, and Please stay safe!
STANDING TOGETHER, WE CAN HAVE AN IMPACT! DO I HEAR AN "AMEN" FROM ANYONE?
Reply: AMEN AND HALLELUIAH!!!!! Since the big trucking companies won't shut down, and they are threatening to fire any driver that does, WE NEED AMERICA'S HELP!  It's going to be up to the American public to start doing something now. Make phone calls, send emails, buy just enough gas to get to work and back home.  AMERICA, STAND UP NOW AND DO SOMETHING, ANYTHING, EVEN IF IT'S WRONG!  Too many Drivers that DID shut down have to start moving again because they have to put food on the table for their families. If the American people don't get involved NOW, then this is going to fade away fast, and the only thing the politicians and corporate big-wigs will do is sit back and laugh at us, the Truckers and the people here that have supported us.

From: kimmy
I live in Oregon where gas an diesel prices are outrageous. and I support the strike, I remember a sign in small town here in Oregon that says "if you bought it a truck brought it". I think we should have a national gas out day. where nobody buys gas, that will have a impact on gas companies. and the trucker strike should last longer than one day. because higher diesel prices affect all of us. from our groceries to our restraunts to our automotive supplies. if trucks cant haul we will be paying out the ass for all that, SO STAND UP AMERICA SUPPORT OUR TRUCK DRIVERS. boycott the gas stations.
Reply: There you go folks. You've been asking what else you can do. Take Kimmy's suggestion and hit the oil executives where they live by NOT buying gasoline. For those who have to get back and forth to work, stay at home this weekend and REFUSE to by gasoline. If it doesn't work, then do it again NEXT weekend. Spread the word and keep doing it until the entire nation joins in.

From: lonewolf.
i use to drive truck but had to stop because of a severe back condition i never knew about until 2002. i had a sharp pain shot through my back and the lower back muscles tightened up and my right leg fell asleep on the fuel peddle. i got my butt out of the truck. after i got home i went to my doctor. to make along story short ,between 2002 an to present day i've been in pain off and on since. i was eventually diagnosed with degenerative disc disease, muscle shorting ,and a disease called shruman's disease more commonly found in younger teenagers, at least that's the way i understand it. i only have a few years of driving under my belt but i enjoyed the over the road experience. my childhood dream was to drive a big rig and i made that dream come true ,mind you i started late in life, but i got my chance to be out there and i have no regrets. i still have a cb in my 4 wheeler and i try to help out of town drivers when i can. i live in Ontario CA an i was wondering because the fuel prices are just as high here to, can Canadian drivers get on board ? the problems in this industry effect all trucking operations on both sides of the border and all should UNITE FOR THE CAUSE! because united we stand ,DIVIDED WE FALL.. i hope that everything works out for everyone involved. i'll look in here from time to time. only one thing left to say, good luck& be safe out there, i'm with you all the way!!!
Reply: I'd love to get Canada, and the Canadian Drivers involved, but right now we're still trying to figure out a way to get enough American Drivers on board. Maybe if the Canadian Drivers got organized, the American Drivers could see that it CAN BE DONE if enough of them quit their whining and just stand together. Wouldn't that be ironic if it did happen that way?  How about it Canada? Can you teach us a lesson and get organized enough to fight the oil giants up north first? (nothing like a little friendly competition to make things more interesting eh?)

From: rosy
Dear Driver,
This is a great website we thank you for it. There are many owner operators here in El Paso, Texas. We heard some rumors & would like to confirm them. Is it true that on April 23rd thru April 27th to make some impact us trucker's are to shut down & protest? Please confirm if any rumor is such true. We also have been spreading the word about your web site. We are asking all our El Pasoan's to view your site for updates. If such shutdown/ protest is in the works, many El Pasoan's are ready & willing to join. Thank you. The Trucker's from El Paso, Texas....
Reply: Hello rosy. As I told linn hongell, mk ranch and transportation, I haven't heard anything on the news, and no one has contacted me here with any specifics about it. I will be going back out on the road today, and I'll see what I can find out.

Good Evening,
I am a wife of an owner operator. I want to make an impact; however, I can't do it on my own.... I have an idea, please give me your opinion.
I suggested to other drivers in El Paso, Texas that we should boycott (1) gas station a day. I believe it's impossible to boycott all gas stations in one day. If possible & the word was spread thru all the states, do you think if everyone did not buy gas from (1) particular gas station one day & then another the next day, & another gas the day after that. What do you think???
Please, any advise would be appreciated.
Thank you.
Victoria
Wife, Mother, Consumer that only WANTS to make a difference
Reply: I believe that might work. The only drawback I see is keeping people informed about which station to boycott each day. The 'No gas on weekends - Stay home on weekends until prices drop' tactic might be easier to organize, as long as people DON'T start topping off every Friday. Just buy enough gas to get back and forth to work and to the grocery store. This may get a little boring on the weekends, but at least families won't have an excuse not to spend time with one another.

From: Dan
I am on board! I support you guys 100%. You guys control the US & the economy. The politicians are going to do anything until something dramatic happens. You are every other American has the ability to do just that. Let's give them something dramatic! If it means killing the US economy...so be it! At least the f&%$ing politicians will finally wake up, because it's then going to comedown like a ton of brick on them! God Bless All Truckers!
Reply: Thank you Dan. The more people that do get on board, the bigger this movement will become. Politicians hate it when we stand together on anything as it takes away the control they have over the American people.

From: Ben
I am not a Truck Driver but deal with them every day in my business. I have a logging crew that is going through the same thing with these high fuel prices. I went from spending $1,000. a week on off road fuel to spending $3500. a week. That's $2500. a week more then I used to have to spend which in turn is $10,000. a Month. Now I could pay just about all of my payments with the extra money it cost me in Fuel. Its ridiculous if you ask me. The rich getting richer and poor getting poorer. Now I was talking with a guy that came up with a idea on a way we might could help on getting the fuel price brought down without striking and without shutting down. I dunno alot about this but what he said seemed to make a little since. He stated that if everyone would pick one company to stop buying fuel from all together that after a while of not having any sales they would have to drop their price which would in turn cause the other companies to have to drop their price to be able to compete. this way we could all keep working by buying fuel from a different company. I dunno if this would work but let me know what you think.
Reply: That could work, but remember there are a lot of companies like Petro, Pilot, Flying J, and TA that don't always advertise who they get their fuel from. I know some truck stops and gas stations get it from whoever's cheapest that week, especially the independents and some franchise operations. If you think that will work, and other drivers or the American public agrees and wants to try it, then I will support it all the way.

From: richard
having been a driver in the construction industry my friends back east are hurting fuel prices go up but you can only charge so much for materials. so only the big guys survive as usual. the big company's buy fuel in bulk the little guy has to pay pump prices. what needs to happen is to get the civilians to stop buying fuel for a few days I know easier said than done the car owners have to get involved also. maybe bulk e-mail to everyone we know plus reply to all e-mails with a message to help out. a friend of mine sent me the article from the New York Times dated 3/29/08. that's how I got your e-mail address. good luck let me know if i can help even in a small way .
rich buffoni
mesa, az
Reply: Thank you Richard.  Standing together, communicating, spreading the word to your friends, neighbors, and anyone else right now and getting them to start calling the politicians and emailing the networks are the best things people can do right now.

From: linn hongell mk ranch and transportation
Does anybody know if trucks are going to shut down in the Southern part of Texas. Husband and I run a Belly Dump operation and we are also running just to pay those bozo Oil companies.
Reply: Well, the nationwide shutdown that has been on the news was April 1st, and some drivers have stayed shut down all week. Unfortunately, most of that's wrapping up now as drivers have to get moving again. Some areas have announced local shutdowns and rallies to the state capitols throughout the month, but those are hard to keep up with. I haven't heard anything about any kind of shutdown targeting southern Texas myself here on the website, and unfortunately, I don't have any kind of 800 number for drivers to call into at this time, but if anyone writes in with any information, I will be sure to post it here.

From: amreba2 at the TDU Drivers Forum. Topic; SHUT DOWN ON APRIL 1/2/3/2008
Hey Truckdriver, Thanks for the info. I have begun emailing the networks and stations. We are in W. PA here, and we are still sitting. Thank you so much for your reply, we are at home, in a small town, and don't get to see much of the action or progress with this except from tv or this site. Could you suggest on the site maybe others could just type a few lines each day and a general area they are in and how things are progressing there....ya kinda feel a bit alone and secluded not hearing...ya know? It might help us all stay strong in the effort. Thanks a bunch
Reply: How about it folks? Visit the forum and let amreba2 and others know where you are and what's happening in your area. Remember, showing support means staying in touch with each other, and that's what the forum is for.

Current News Updates From: Victoria (Grasshopper)
4-2-08
http://www.11alive.com/news/article_news.aspx?storyid=113808&GID=ggmaRCYA8Av12eTwGiiyIreYHBWRRilyuUU+0SzCjZU%3D
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,344509,00.html
http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/myfox/

4-3-08
http://www.11alive.com/
http://www.wtoc.com/Global/story.asp?S=8109054
http://www.fox24.com/article.asp?pkid=11676
http://www.whiotv.com/money/15764298/detail.html
http://www.whiotv.com/news/15735957/detail.html
http://qctimes.com/articles/2008/03/31/opinion/columnists/barb_ickes/doc47e884ee13767185626302.txt
http://www.whiotv.com/news/15782121/detail.html?rss=day&psp=news  (not about trucks, but interesting)

From: Keith
I'm A Trucker that had to park 4 truck's just after Christmas, I'm now driving a truck for a local Company for 32cent's A mile, I've been Home Since the 29th for the shut down on the 1st, I done my Part to get the word across the CB on my travels, We've got to keep this up" I live in N,C, & the DOT has been ticketing Drivers hot & Heavy" Knowing that Driver's can't afford to maintain every thing on their trucks & pay 4 buck's A gallon for Fuel" We all know that our Government/Law enforcement is Greedy, In North Carolina the Fuel tax is 70'cents A Gallon across the board, We've got to keep this moving forward! These highway's & interstates are the blood veins of this Nation" and these Truckers are the life's blood that flows thru them, Now I know that every Driver has there own list of gripe's about what need's to be done & what changes need to be made, But We've got to Unite/ stick together, I support this union / Forum, My suggestion is to start Yet another Truck Drivers Association "But ONE that won't sell us out like the ATA or OOIDA! In My Opinion The ATA hasn't done nothing for the American Truck Driver in 20 years" But they Have for the ones Like The Insurance Industry" And Special Interest Group's That are against The Trucking Industry, Our so called OOIDA in My Opinion Has NO Ball's/Backbone or Hair it's Butt" They Don't Or Have Not Ever supported A Strike or shut down or ever tried to Organize the Drivers/Owner operators/Independent Drivers to get anything Done"
Now I tell People to Place A Tourniquet Around their Arm & Tighten it every time something is done to Hurt the Trucking Industry/ Truck Driver & See What Happens" Eventually There Arm Will Turn Black & Fall Off, This is what's Happening to Us" The End is Near!! Now I'm A third Generation Freight Hauler" Great Granpappy's Rig wasn't but 6 to 8 Horse Power" So We've Came A Long way's since the Day's of Carrying Freight! I will Do Anything to Help this Cause" That I Possibly Can" I Fill that we need to start doing thing's to Raise Money to Help this Cause, I Have A Terminal setting Empty Here in Lexington NC & I'm willing to Help" What can I Do to Help? Can We Sale Patches for Coat's & Jackets/ Stickers for windows & Bumpers, What Can we DO?
Reply: Hello Keith. Well, I am trying to start an unofficial organization here at TruckDriversUnited.  By unofficial, I mean no membership fees or anything else that would limit me or any members from legally discussing or supporting one another when it comes to making decisions. There are a lot of legal issues involved when you form an organization with members that pay dues, especially where Independent Owner Operators are concerned.  As far as hats, buttons, etc., I haven't had any requests yet, and I'd have to find someone that would make them for anyone interested.  As far as a fund, I have no idea what would be involved in that.  Being a full time driver, I have a hard time keeping up with the website.  In all honesty, I don't know if I would have enough time to devote to looking into starting any kind of fund.  As far as what you can do to help, start by printing as many of the flyers as you can and pass them out.  We have to start getting drivers to come together and communicate with one another online, or at least come here and say what steps they want to take next to get organized.  I didn't post your phone number because I wasn't sure if it was for me, or for drivers to call you. I guess if we had someone based at home that would get a 1-800 number and could take phone calls, it would be better than just having the website. I hesitate to ask for someone to volunteer for that job, but if anyone wants it, let me know.  Before anyone volunteers, remember, there's no pay, and no expense allowance as I'm not making enough in affiliate sales from the banners I have up to even cover the cost of running the site so far.

From: Sergio
I'm not a trucker, nor am I in the trucking industry, but I drive a F250 with the diesel motor as my daily driver! I fully support what you are all doing and am letting you know that I have had my truck parked in my driveway ever since the strike/shutdown started; and I will continue to do so until a change is made. Hopefully this will get the attention it needs to make a difference.
Sergio
2006 Powerstroke F250

From: Jasmine
Thought I'd let you guys know that the factory I work for mentioned the strike you guys are planning here. I think what you guys are planning to do is fantastic. If we could just get people and truckers alike to participate, it'd be even better! It's time the government started taking notice of you guys. I just honestly hope that a large amount of truckers will band together on this one, because we've all seen stuff like this called for a thousand times before. I say it's time you guys stick it to these greedy oil companies.
I'll be posting a link to the story that was featured on fox as well as a link to this website on my blog. Below is my link to that.
Best of luck, I'm supporting you all fully!
www.xanga.com/operationeducate
Reply: Thank you Jasmine. It took me a few minutes to find the information about the Drivers, but I did and it's great. As far as other people joining in and participating, I'd love to see every American stand up for this and just walk off of their jobs, walk out of their homes, stop their cars in the middle of the road, and stand together for once as a nation against the government and the greed of corporate America. Just imagine if the American people would stand together, say ENOUGH IS ENOUGH and start marching down the streets in protest.  The Truckers started it, but other people know they want to join in. I guess things just aren't bad enough for the rest of America to take a stand yet.

From: Kelly
Dear Trucker Friends, I used to travel with my late husband and played lumper when he became ill. He passed away 9-11-01 in our home. I miss the road more than I can say, and the good times we had. If any of you remember "Against The Wind" Trucking Co. out of Holland, Mi., that was us. My CB handle was "Weight Watcher" and I was always telling jokes and convincing truckers to pull over and have a hot cup of coffee with us. Even back then, the prices of diesel was hurting us and the driver's we hired. I see it has only gotten worse, and there will be no end in sight if people don't stand up and speak out. No one would have ANYTHING if it weren't for you incredibly over-worked truckers. I for one appreciate each and every one of you! I salute you and back you up 100% on going on strike. When people have to start doing without, maybe things will change. I sure can't see where it would make it any worse out there! I miss the C.B., but I still wave at all truckers (though not all wave back), and I will continue to do so. I'm even the first one who will back down to let a semi out or in out of courtesy, I know how difficult it can be. I even still blink my lights in an attempt to help. You folks do what you have to do. I know that Bobby would be behind me on this also. Be safe and God-Bless.............Kelly M. Larsen

From: Leslie
I'M A COMPANY DRIVER FOR SHORELINE TRANSPORTATION, A FEW OF US HERE TRIED TO GET THEM TO LET US SHUTDOWN WITH THE O/O BUT THEY HAD NO PROBLEM TELLING EVERYONE ON THE COMPUTERS THAT IF WE SHUT DOWN NOT ONLY WILL WE BE TERMINATED BUT THEY WILL CHARGE US FOR THE LOADS THAT WE'D BE SITTING ON BUT THAT THEY WILL MAKE SURE THEY END OUR CAREER DRIVING BUT IT WILL ALSO GO ON OUR DAC REPORT. I REALLY WISH THEIR WAS A WAY TO SHUT DOWN THE FUEL/GAS TANKERS BECAUSE IF WE CAN'T BUY FUEL THEN WE CAN'T ROLL...
Reply: While I don't condone violence, I wouldn't blame you or any of your fellow Drivers if you put a rock through your own windshield and claimed it was done by someone else because you didn't shut down.  Not that I'm suggesting anyone actually do that mind you.  I'm just sick of these companies that threaten the drivers, and the drivers aren't sure what to do about it. Too bad you couldn't get at least 75% to 80% of your fellow Company Drivers to stand together on this, because as I've said, there's no company that could survive if they terminated that many of their drivers.

From: Supporter
Hey I emailed the news stations in Indianapolis and this is the response I got from one of them.

We have done a couple of stories on it. Some politicians have talked about it but I don't know about any proposals in Congress. One candidate for governor has proposed a temporary waiver of the state sales tax on gasoline in Indiana. The heads of the oil companies testified before Congress yesterday but I know of no concrete plan to reduce gas prices.
Sincerely,

Kevin Finch
News Director
WISH-TV
317.956.8549
317.704-8719 (fax)
LIN Television, Indianapolis
WISH-TV / MyNDY / WIIH / LWS
1950 North Meridian Street
Indianapolis, IN 46202
www.wishtv.com
www.MyNDYtv.com
www.indyunivision.com
Reply: Thank you, that's great. I have been in touch with a number of the local reporters and news directors myself from across the country. While their stories do help, and the networks will pick up on the local stories, what we need right now is more national coverage. This is why I'm encouraging everyone to bombard the networks with emails asking them about keeping us updated.

From: Janet
Today is our shut down day....April 2nd...we are planning a trucker rally for tomorrow and hopefully we will get a lot of support, unfortunately not everyone in our small town is backing us.. but I just wanted to tell you that our local radio station wbyz.com has a GREAT editorial on it if anyone has the time to go to the web site and hear it.. if just click on Al's comments....I really appreciate his coverage for us....God Bless and SHUT YOUR TRUCKS DOWN....if we don't get this diesel price down ...I know, we'll be out of business...
Thanks again for your support it helps mine feelings to know you understand and care...
Janet

From: kathy
THANK YOU Truckers all over the US for what you are doing to show what is raping all of us. YOU guys ARE the backbone of the economy. So many business DEPEND on YOU and your loads. You all have my support 100 percent. YOu give alot of yourselves and your job isn't easy. SO GOD BLESS YOU!! Thank you.

From: cj
I REALLY THINK WE SHOULD HAVE A SHUTDOWN LIKE WE HAD IN THE 70'S THEN THE ASSHOLES WOULD HAVE TO DO SOMETHING ITS NOT JUST THE TRUCKERS ITS THE GAS TOO WE HAVE TO STAND UP AND FAST. ITS THE RICH GET RICHER AND THE POOR GET POORER

From: Chris
I am with you all. I am so damn sick of the government not doing anything about the oil tycoons ripping us all off, especially the truckers. My dad is a truck driver and I am standing behind him and the rest of you all.
I want to know why diesel is so much when we are exporting the fuel to other countries because we have so much of it. Why aren't we charging them the higher costs instead of us?
I am standing behind a strike. Let me know if there's anything I can do.
Reply: Make phone calls and send emails to the government and the networks, and get everyone you know to do the same.

From: robert
I am a landstar driver, one who has decided to take the entire week off and would take two to ten if necessary to get the job done, but living within viewing distance of I75 I can see there are still a lot of trucks rolling and when you ask these guys why they are still running they say they cannot afford to shut down, well I do not see how they can afford to keep running. Since 2000 my annual fuel bill has went up nearly 15,000 dollars and that's all out of profit. what will it be next year 18, 20,000. If you ask me the tax break for the big oil companies of 18 billion should be divided up and used to subsidize truckers with their fuel bills.
Reply: Good idea, but getting big oil execs. to let go of that money would be like getting J.B. Hunt drivers to shut down, and I know what you mean about the guys that are still running. It's sad when people use that excuse, and I'm sorry but that's all it is. Anyone that genuinely can't afford to stop their truck for one week now are the ones that can't afford NOT to, because if they are in that bad of shape, then one flat tire would literally put them out of business... and that's no way to be doing business.  Company drivers that are using that excuse need to join together and start demanding more money from their company, or quit and get a job at Micky Ds. Some people aren't going to like this reply, but that's too bad. I won't apologize for making it, because I'm sick of hearing it.

From: Bobby
I may not be a trucker but i am doing what i can since I do drive a diesel truck

From: Terri
I support the truckers 100%! I have a family member that owns his own truck , so I understand what the independent trucker is going through. But it's not just the trucker, it's ALL of us, and we need to get off our butts and do something about it. I'm sick and tired to these greedy oil companies and our so called "government" officials, screwing us over all the time! I'm fed up, and will support our truckers anyway possible. I will not buy gas until this is over. My car has been sitting in my driveway for 2 days, and unless an emergency arrives, that's where it's gonna' stay until this strike is over. COME ON PEOPLE!!! LET'S FINALLY TAKE A STAND, AND SHOW THESE GREEDY PEOPLE THAT WE'RE NOT PEOPLE TO BE MESSED WITH!
Reply: I LOVE YOUR ENTHUSIASM. Please start contacting the networks, and have your friends do the same before this just 'disappears' and no one cares anymore.

From: mwakin
if truckers would shut down Washington, DC for 1 day . that would show the gov't what trucking is all about. nothing in & nothing out.
Reply: I though about recommending no one deliver any kind of alcohol to D.C. When the politicians can't get their free martini with their free meal or their free Cuban cigar, they'll throw a fit.

Reply: Curtis
I am behind the drivers 100%. Those MONEY GRUBBING OIL CO. get richer by jacking up fuel prices and forcing the owner-operators out of buss. The larger trucking co. won't back down because they get kickbacks. What is used to run trucks is the same to heat some homes. So if you can't afford to work you can't afford to stay warm at home.
Reply: If we don't do something NOW, pretty soon staying at home is all ANYONE is going to be able to afford to do.

From: Victoria (Grasshopper)
Hi Dave,
Just a quick note to tell you that Neal Boortz (syndicated talk show host, broadcasts live everyday from Atlanta, GA) is bad mouthing the truckers that are protesting for going to slow and tying up traffic.

From: Tom
Good evening drivers,
I do not drive a truck, although I have always wanted to. I used to drive while I was in the military hauling ammo.
I just wanted to let you know, you have my full support. I wish there was something that I could do to assist you besides sending these words of encouragement.
I truly believe that SOMETHING has to be done in order to get the attention of the big-wigs sitting in their multi-million dollar office, smokin' that fat cigar while there company is making $1,300.00 A SECOND!!!! Give me a break! Here I sit, out of work due to my back. I bring in $123.00 + food stamps in state assistance for a month while I am fighting the Social Security Office for over a year now.
It is time for American citizens to take a stand and let these money hungry greedy imbeciles know that we are tired of being bled dry of what little money we do make to take care of our families.
I believe that if it were possible to have every big rig that drives the roads to park it for 2 days. And not haul any products coming from refineries.
Yes this would put a major kink in the lives of the common person, but it needs to be done. The big companies need to be shown that there are other people in this country who has a right to enjoy a comfortable life. $1,300.00 a second is crazy!!!
OK, gonna' get off here. I am very proud of all of you. And your are doing the right thing so keep it up! Wish there was more I could do for you.
Tom

From: Brian
I support the truck drivers across this country having known quite a few. I would challenge you that a shut-down isn't going to have the long term effects that you are looking for. For the same reason that the shutdown for passenger cars doesn't work. You still have to get where you have to get to. It just delays it a day or so. Slowing down and finding better ways to conserve fuel are a much more effective solution. If the demand decreases and supplies increase, then you will start seeing a drop in prices again. I know trucks have gotten more efficient over the years and last a long time. Pushing for more fuel efficient engines and renewable fuels I feel will have a much more lasting affect on the core business. So having said that, have all the trucks slow down to 45 or just above. They won't get a ticket for driving below the minimum speed limit. They'll use less gas. And I think they'll get the point across... Good luck to you all.
Reply: I agree that an effective shutdown would require about 75% of ALL trucks participating for 72 hours. By that time, the grocery warehouses will start running out of product, and the gas stations will be out of gasoline (even if they do ration it).  That time frame would be enough to get enough people's attention that they would be bombarding their local and federal governments with a demand to take action.  Any longer could have a devastating effect on the economy, which is NOT what we  want.
As I mention on 'The Shut Down Option' page, there are other options, and ones that I believe are more effective. Unfortunately, other options are long term, and too many O.Os. and small Trucking Companies don't have that kind of time.  For many, this shutdown is a last ditch effort to survive before they go out of business. This isn't due to poor planning on their part as much as it is the fact the cost of diesel at the pump has climbed so dramatically over the last year and a half. By the time they adjusted for one fuel price increase, they were looking at another one, all while still running their business in a very competitive and harsh environment. As far as reducing our speed, while this may work for a protest, you have to remember that we are paid by the load, or by the mile for Company Drivers.  The average Driver is making less than $12 an hour right now (not including his time away from home when he/she is on their required break), the more we slow down, the less we make.  Additionally, the longer it takes each truck to deliver one load, it increases the necessity for more trucks to be on the highway, which is something a lot of people don't want to see.

From: STEVEN
I think there is a need to bring attention to the plight of the trucking industry. But we also are going to hurt ourselves in the process. We are in a dilemma. If we raise our prices we pass on the rising cost of shipping to ourselves as consumers also. If the government gets involved we are moving away from the thing that has made our country great, a capitalistic society. There needs to be much thought to decide and bring about a resolution that will befit the trucking industry and also us as consumers.
It seems the only way to get something done at this point is to shut the trucks down and do what has to be done.
Reply: At this time, a shutdown is the only way, and regardless of the outcome, there are going to be those that will raise their prices and say 'it was the Trucker's fault for shutting down'.  Many people will believe this, not realizing that the cost of consumer goods was preparing to skyrocket if we didn't shut down.  Now, rather than walk away when this is over, we need to start organizing. Not necessarily for another shut down, but to make some positive changes in the industry we all know are long overdue before Trucking, much like the migrant workers jobs, becomes a job that nobody wants to do.

From: dee
My boyfriend works for a small company in western Massachusetts and we want you to know that they will strike also when the time comes. We want you all to know that this affects us also the more fuel prices go up the less we make also. Anyways we support this strike also. It's time we got something other than a violation ticket.

From: Mark
I think it's long overdue for truckers to unite for a cause, and what better cause than to stand up against the oil industry. My sister's husband is a trucker and I know for a fact that truckers go through & put up with all kinds of B.S. I once thought of becoming a trucker, but I don't have enough patience for all that B.S. anymore. I would probable swipe some of the idiots off the road along with their alien cell phones having sex with their inner ear canals, or spread-eagle those crooked brokers (the ones that steal so much away from hard working truckers and their families), strap those crooks across the front grill of an 18 wheeler for a life altering ride they never thought they'd get. Some idiot suggested getting rid of the trucks and doing it all by trains, what planet did that moron come from? Trains are just part of the program of delivery and for what should be obvious reasons, they can't do door to door. You can bet CSX and other unions will eventually go on strike, they did it before, truckers should be able to do the same. I hate to say it, it's harmful to the economy, especially when they do it while the economy is back on the upswing, but sometimes that's what it takes to get the message across. No matter whom the president is when it happens, people find it so easy to point the finger of blame at the president, when it should be pointing in so many other directions, because there are so many others who are truly responsible for all our woes, and so many reasons, ie; outsourcing, cutting hours, layoffs, making poor decisions without getting all the facts or foreseeing the repercussions of those poorly made decisions. STAND YOUR GROUND ON THE STRIKE/SLOWDOWN. "IN MY OPINION THE HIGH PRICE OF OIL AND GAS, IS JUST ANOTHER FORM OF ECONOMIC TERRORISM. THINK ABOUT IT...OPEC... IF THE MIDDLE EAST TERRORISTS, AND THEIR SUPPORTERS, CAN'T BEAT US BY KILLING OUR TROOPS & CIVILIANS, THEN WHAT BETTER WAY TO BRING OUR COUNTRY DOWN, THAN THROUGH THE ECONOMY. AND THE FIRST, THE BIGGEST RIPPLE CREATED IN OUR POND OF THE ECONOMY, IS THE BIGGEST STONE THROWN BY THE OIL INDUSTRY"!

From: jim
well I have only be on the road for a year and a half and I support you 100% I work for a known company and when I dropped off the load, I called and told them IM bringing the truck back and am not hauling another till this strike is over, and if they have a problem, then ill look elsewhere for employment, keep up the strike we need something done...my wife was sure glad to see me and not to mention my 13 month old son..

From: Temy
I'm a former driver, now disabled. I was hearing about shutdowns and strikes at least since 2000. It ain't gonna happen guys. Many, many reasons (lack of support from big companies ia a big one), but it just won't. How many full time OTR drivers are out there right now? And I'd bet you $100 that you can't get even 100 of them to actually join together for more than lip service. You know how easy it would be to totally shut down ALL Interstate traffic around DC? Would take less than 100. It would call immediate national attention. Can it happen? Not a chance.

From: dave
lm a owner operator and be that for a long time until the diesel want up l don't understand when drivers say they can shut down l be down a year and l don't see why some body cant if your not making any money why run for nothing and other thing need to be addressed is the company need to give the owner operator the insurance and they should pay for the rest of operational requirements except physical on there tractor. shouldn't charge no escrow. and give a good percentage rate to truckers that haul there freight give a lot more fuel surcharge than what there paying at present time no wonder nobody can make a living or try to pay bills and raise family .AND KEEP UP YOUR TRUCK MAINTENANCE. LETS KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK ON STRIKE AND PRAY FOR A GOOD OUT COME . D TRUCKING

From: Jerrod
Let's start digging in ANWAR. The impact in size of this desolate iceberg is minimal. Compare it to taking a quarter and placing it on the corner of a 12 foot by 20 foot area rug. I care about the environment, as a farmer my livelihood depends on it. Four dollar plus a gallon for diesel means 3 dollar a loaf of bread. It is that simple. An old racing buddy is a geologist for shell oil. A massive oil shale is in the Colorado region. More than most middle eastern countries! Am I the only one who is fed up?!

From: Jay
I am not a truck driver, but I am seriously thinking about becoming one. I am currently in the Air Force (11 1/2 years). How can 4 wheelers support you all?
I am financially lean now and away from my family, I rather be financially lean, away from family and NOT go to war. This is one reason why I think about becoming a trucker, besides I love to drive and love the open road (not so open any more).
Jay

From: james
I'm glad to see someone else passionate about the ever worsening situation trucking has become. I'VE ARGUED WITH MANY A DRIVER THAT WE MUST ORGANIZE, STAND TOGETHER, WE COULD CHANGE ALL THE NEGATIVES INTO POSITIVES. It'd take about 1 week to make a lasting effect, this nation depends on us but i doubt if any other profession is more u