Snapshots — Fall 2012/Winter 2013

Thomas Built produces 50,000th Saf-T-Liner C2

Contractor Dean Transportation takes delivery of the milestone school bus. Thomas Built Buses launched the C2 model in 2004, designing it from the ground up and building it in the High Point, N.C., production facility created specifically to produce the innovative bus.

Kerlin shows commitment to training, customers

As Indiana's Kerlin Bus Sales and Leasing celebrates 50 years as a Thomas Built Buses dealer, the family-run company focuses on providing instruction for bus drivers and technicians so they are well-versed in the industry's latest technology.

Contractor of the Year profile: Kobussen Buses

The Wisconsin school bus operator delivers exemplary service to its school district customers, one of which Kobussen has been serving for nearly 75 years. Members of the Kobussen family have also been key contributors to industry associations, and they are known for lending a hand to colleagues.

2012 Contractor of the Year

1 of Chowchilla kidnappers to be released

Prison officials say that Richard Schoenfeld, who was among the three convicted in the infamous 1976 school bus kidnapping in California, will get out on parole this month.

Industry veteran Steve Kalmes to retire

The Anchorage, Alaska, director of transportation has not only served as president of the National Association for Pupil Transportation, he has attended the annual conference for more than 30 years in a row. He tells SBF that after retiring in July, he will remain active in the industry — and will attend the next NAPT conference.

Transportation leader pushed for efficiency, bus ads

Joe Mirabella, who died Sunday at 68, co-founded an innovative program to help Colorado's school districts boost transportation efficiency, and he promoted advertising on school buses — a controversial stance. Colleagues remember him as "a mentor to me and many others" and "a giant here in Colorado."

Honoring our history

Ed Bobit felt so strongly about his idea that he went back to the bosses with his resignation letter and decided to give it a go alone. And with that, he launched Bobit Publishing and its flagship publication, Automotive Fleet. After Bobit acquired School Bus Transportation, it relaunched in 1965 as SCHOOL BUS FLEET with a new look and vision.

From Buggies to Buses: 135 Years in Transportation

Wolfington Body Co. began as a builder of horse-drawn carriages in the 19th century. The company adapted with the times and went on to thrive as a school bus distributor.