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Consumer confidence rose this month, according to the Thomson Reuters/University of Michigan consumer sentiment index released Friday.

I’m writing in response to the Oct. 3 article about the “new” Volvo drivetrain package: “Volvo Offers New Powertrain Package for VN Trucks.”

The most recent bits of news about business conditions and the economy suggest that, while we can’t be sure we’re out of the woods yet, the most dire predictions of a double-dip recession a couple of months ago apparently were too pessimistic.

The U.S. economy rose at a 2.5% annual rate in the third quarter, the fastest pace in a year, the Commerce Department said Thursday.

Consumer confidence dropped in October to its lowest level since March 2009, the New York-based Conference Board said Tuesday.

The first Mexican truck crossed the United States border Friday as part of the cross-border trucking pilot program between the countries, the Associated Press reported.

California environmental regulators have approved a slate of amendments to fine-tune the state’s transport refrigerated unit rule, but denied a request by industry stakeholders to push back compliance deadlines by extending the useful life of the units from seven to nine years.

Nextran Corp. has purchased Premier Truck Centers, with locations in Birmingham, Tuscumbia and Madison, Ala. Terms were not released.

I own a small motor carrier and drive as well. In the past 38 years, I have driven trucks all across the United States, both regional and cross country, and I am reaching the end of my career with more than 3 million safe miles covered.