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President-elect Bush named current Commerce Secretary Norman Y. Mineta to be transportation secretary on Tuesday, making him the first Democrat to join Bush's Cabinet.

The four trucking companies owned by Intrenet Inc. were told Tuesday morning they will be shut down as soon as possible consistent with an orderly liquidation.

TTNews.com will be closed Monday, Jan. 2, for the New Year's holiday. Please check back on Tuesday, Jan. 3, for the latest trucking and freight transportation news.

A new set of standards on cargo tiedown and securement could be in force as early as July 1, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

When Bush-appointed officials settle into their new posts at the Department of Transportation, a top priority should be to improve the effectiveness of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, said DOT Inspector General Kenneth Mead.

In the news this morning: Steelmaker LTV may file for bankruptcy; Bush names Thompson to head Department Health and Human Services; PNV suspends services; and more.

This afternoon's headlines: FedEx finalizes American Freightways purchase; Dorsey Trailers seeking more short-term cash; temporary deal keeps LTV's steel mills running for now; and more.

Today's technology headlines: Changing warehouses into Web houses; redefining e-business through connectivity; GPS finds a home in onboard automotive systems; and more.

TTNews.com will be closed Monday in observance of the New Year's Day holiday. Please check back on Tuesday, Jan. 2, for the latest trucking and freight transportation news.

United Parcel Service, the world's largest package carrier, announced rate hikes Thursday on ground and air shipments to take effect Feb. 5.