FMCSA Administrator Anne Ferro will address the opening session of the 50th Anniversary Mid-West Truckers Association Convention and Mid-West Truck & Trailer Show Feb. 3 in Peoria, Ill.


Ferro will likely be asked to address the hot topics of new federal hours-of-service regulations and the ban on the use of hand-held cell phones. The appearance will be Ferro's second; she also spoke to the MTA Convention in 2010 and met with truck owners and drivers while touring the show.

The 2012 Convention and the Mid-West Truck & Trailer Show draws 6,000 attendees from throughout the Midwest and includes educational sessions, expanded displays, programs and space for nearly 200 exhibitors to help truck operators move ahead in a complex market while facing the challenges of changing regulations, an uncertain economy and increased costs.

Other highlights of this year's show include The "Truckers Pride" truck beauty contest featuring an antique truck category in addition to work and show trucks.

The Mid-West Truck & Trailer Show is held in conjunction with the 50th Anniversary Convention of the Mid-West Truckers Association.

The 2012 Truck & Trailer Show at the Peoria Civic Center, 201 S.W. Jefferson Street, is located just off I-74 in downtown Peoria, Ill. Show hours are Feb. 3, 2012 from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Feb. 4, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.