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It’s time to take the pledge and join the 22×22 Veterans Suicide Prevention Challenge!

It’s time enter your pledge and join this fall’s “Keep Pushin’ 22” challenge! The 22×22 Veterans Suicide Prevention Challenge begins Nov. 1 and continues through Nov. 22. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the challenge, it was originally known as “Kill 22,” and was started in response to a horrific statistic released by the VA over a decade ago: An average of 22 military veterans commit suicide every day. While the actual number of veteran suicides varies from year to year, the “22×22” tag has become the most recognized. In late summer of 2016, the awareness campaign — which involves participants doing 22 push-ups each day for 22 days and donating to foundations that provide veteran services — went viral. Social media outlets like Instagram, Facebook and news feeds began to promote video posts of celebrities doing their 22 pushups and then challenging other celebrities, pro athletes, politicians and so forth to do the same. It caught my attention because so many drivers are veterans, and several of my family members served in the military, including an uncle I never met who was killed in conflict. However, once celebrities stopped posting videos, the challenge seemed to lose momentum. With the support of Women In Trucking, The Trucker Media Group and FIT DRIVERS, we are working to keep that awareness alive. Each day of the 22×22 Veterans Suicide Prevention Challenge (Nov. 1-22), thousands of participants post their videos daily on social media. We’re also grateful to sponsors Tenstreet, Estes, Spiritune and Trucker’s Body Shop. I encourage you to take the pledge to help raise awareness of the challenges faced by military veterans after returning to civilian life. It’s important to note that about 10% of the nation’s professional CDL holders are military veterans. It’s also important to note that the trucking industry loses about 300,000 drivers each year to poor health. Because of this second fact, my goal is both to help reduce the number of veteran suicides and to improve drivers’ overall health. This year, Veterans Day (Nov. 11) falls during Women In Trucking’s annual Accelerate! Conference & Expo. During the conference, we will be paying tribute to military veterans and veteran truck drivers. Special guest Sarah Lee will share her journey as an Army OIF combat veteran. In 2004 she was deployed to Iraq with the 216th Combat Engineers under the 1st Infantry Division. In 2018, she completed a cycling journey of more than 4,000 miles across America. Her blog, A Vicious Cycle, chronicles her road to healing as she traveled across the land she had fought for as a sergeant in the U.S. Army. The mission behind 22×22 is not about how many push-ups you do. It’s about bringing awareness to the number of our nation’s heroes who commit suicide, and about donating to reputable organizations that provide support for veterans. This year, I encourage you to donate to Sarah’s foundation, Waypoint Vets. You can take the pledge and upload your videos here.

Holiday heroes: Special Kenworth T680 to transport US Capitol Christmas tree from Alaska to DC

TONGASS NATIONAL FOREST —  Kenworth is providing a T680, adorned with a newly installed graphics wrap, that will soon transport the 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree from the Tongass National Forest in Alaska to the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Building. “Kenworth is proud to again provide the truck that will transport the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree for the 11th consecutive year,” said Kevin Haygood, Kenworth assistant general manager for sales and marketing. “Our continuing participation in this celebration that spreads holiday cheer in local communities from coast-to-coast is a program we look forward to every year.” The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree harvest celebration began Oct. 26 in Wrangell, Alaska, followed by the first Whistlestop tour event in Ketchikan. After the Alaska events, the tree and trailer will be loaded onto an Alaska Marine Lines barge where it will travel to Seattle, Wash. From there, the “People’s Tree” will begin a 4,000-mile journey across the country stopping at parks, plazas, schools, memorials, and main streets in a series of community events on its way to Washington, D.C. “Where Nature, People and Tradition Come Together,” is this year’s tour theme and the message is reflected on the special graphic design of the T680 featuring Alaska’s Tongass and Chugach National Forests. According to the media release, this year, real-time GPS location tracking of the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree will be provided by Kenworth’s TruckTech+ connected truck technology. Starting October 26th, the tree’s journey that begins in Alaska and concludes with delivery on November 22 in Washington D.C., can be tracked via interactive map Kenworth Tree Tracker 2024 | Kenworth Lynden, an Alaska-based company, is the official designated carrier for the 2024 tour. Lynden companies provide transportation and logistics solutions in Alaska, Canada, the Pacific Northwest, Hawaii and around the world. The company selected drivers Fred Austin and John Schank for the honor of transporting the special tree. Austin and Schank both began working for Lynden in 1975 and have earned numerous prestigious honors and designations for outstanding professionalism and skills. Collectively, they have driven over 10 million accident-free miles for Lynden in Alaska. This will be Schank’s second opportunity to carry the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree as he previously drove in 2015, the last time a tree was harvested from Alaska and transported to Washington D.C. According to the release, the truck pulling this year’s tree is a Kenworth T680 equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain featuring the PACCAR MX-13 engine rated at 455 horsepower, PACCAR TX-12 automated transmission and PACCAR DX-40 tandem real axles. The Kenworth T680 features a Diamond VIT interior in slate gray with madrona accents and includes the latest in driver amenities. Both the driver and passenger seats are GT703 leather seats that are fully heated and cooled. The 76-inch sleeper includes space for a microwave and TV, a factory-installed fridge, and a rotating work table. The T680 also includes the latest in driver assistance systems, including Kenworth’s Digital Mirrors, Bendix Fusion Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop and Auto Go, and Lane Keeping Assist with Torque Assisted Steering. Below is the current 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Tour public schedule: Oct. 30: Alaska Marine Highway Terminal, Ketchikan, Alaska Nov. 6: Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, Renton, Wash. Nov. 8: Baker County Fairgrounds & Event Center, Baker City, Ore. Nov. 9: The Pocatello Veterans Day Parade, Pocatello, Idaho Nov. 9: Salt Lake County Parks & Recreation’s Wheeler Historic Farm, Murray, Utah Nov. 10: Cabela’s, Grand Junction, Colo. Nov. 11: The Ranch Events Complex, Loveland, Colo. Nov. 13: Gene Leahy Mall at The Landing at The RiverFront, Omaha, Neb. Nov. 16: Parkview Field, Fort Wayne, Ind. Nov. 17: Center of Science and Industry, Columbus, Ohio Nov. 19: The Maryland Theater, Hagerstown, Md. Nov. 21: Andrews Theater, Joint Base Andrews, Md. (*base access only) Nov. 22: Delivery to West Lawn, U.S. Capitol Building, Washington, D.C. In early December, a tree lighting ceremony will take place, hosted by the Architect of the Capitol in coordination with the U.S. Speaker of the House. For more information, visit the 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree website www.uscapitolchristmastree.com

Tim Chelette of Big G Express finds joy in mentoring other drivers

You can often tell a great athlete by the number of awards and accolades they’ve earned during their careers. The same can be said of professional truck drivers — in particular, Tim Chelette of Big G Express. Chelette is one of five drivers honored as a 2024 Professional Driver of the Year by the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA). The drivers were presented with their awards during the closing banquet of TCA’s 2024 annual convention, held in March at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville. The winners each received a prize of $20,000 along with a standing ovation from banquet attendees. Chelette has been driving for a total of 22 years, and he’s been with Big G Express for the past 18. During his years behind the wheel, he’s earned awards from Big G Express, as well as the Tennessee Trucking Association, Pilot Flying J Travel Centers and DMC Insurance. He was also a Captain of the American Trucking Association’s America’s Road Team in 2019-2020. Chelette’s career in the trucking industry did not begin behind the wheel, he told Truckload Authority. “I used to work in a distribution center, over the inventory department and unloading department, and drivers kept telling me how much they really love driving,” he said. “I never thought that I would ever become a trucker,” he said, adding that he loves his job as a driver. “I tell people all the time that when I get tired of being ‘on vacation,’ I’ll quit my job.” After making the decision to try his hand at driving, Chelette enrolled in a CDL school in Lebanon, Tennessee. He says he was surprised at how much professional drivers need to know. “I never had so much stuff crammed into my mind in that many days,” he said. “It was unbelievable!” At some point in the training, embarking on a trucking career became a reality for him. “It was a great experience, from the minute I walked up to that truck in the school,” he said. “I’m thinking, “My goodness, you see these things on the highway!’” While he had seen countless rigs traveling on the road, he’d never stopped to think about everything involved in transporting freight across the country, he said, adding that he believes the general public is mostly uneducated about trucks and the trucking industry. “That’s the beauty of getting to be being part of trucking associations — we get to educate the American people about following distance, stopping distance, how to pass a semi-truck,” he said. “They just don’t know about it.” Chelette has covered nearly 2 million miles in his driving career and has managed to see every state except Hawaii, either from behind the wheel of his truck or while vacationing. “I just came back from Alaska, so now I got 49 states,” he said. He appreciates the accolades he gets from trucking awards, but his passion goes beyond winning awards. “People see the passion and the love that I have for trucking. I really love it,” he said. “I love mentoring other drivers.” Chelette says he used to have as much fun on two wheels as he does driving an 18-wheeler. “I’ve ridden motorcycles all my life,” he said, but says those days have ended. “I just gave up motorcycles, and I’m getting back to my roots again.” In addition to riding for fun, he parlayed his love for motorcycles into fundraising, leading motorcycle events to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis. “I did it for six years, and the last year I did it, I had 187 motorcycles. It was growing about 50 motorcycles every year. It was getting to the point where we would have had to split it into two rides” he said. “Since the goal was that 100% of the money raised would go to St. Jude’s, we didn’t want to take anything out of that.” Larger rides would have meant more administrative costs, more sponsors and more time away from work, so Chelette decided to move on, pursuing other interests. “I grew up doing a lot of hunting and fishing. I wanted to get back into fishing again, so I’ve been doing that a lot,” he said. “I have a two-car garage on my house, but I built me a nice two car garage in my backyard — and I just bought me a brand-new boat that goes in that garage.” Chelette has also embarked on another endeavor, one that he’s eager to share with world: He’s lost 130 pounds simply by changing his eating habits. He’s healthier and happier at his lower weight. Over the years, he’s been interviewed numerous times for stories about the various awards he has won, but his message remains constant. “When I get behind the wheel, I feel like it’s my job not just to make sure I get home safely to my family; it’s my job to make sure you get home to your family,” he said. Driving safety — and helping mentor others to do the same — just might be more important to Chelette than any of the awards and accolades he’s earned. Tim Chelette has no plans to stop helping others get home safely.

Living in faith: NFI’s Howard Robinson practices what he preaches

When professional truck driver Howard Robinson isn’t watching the world go by from the cab of his big rig, he’s glimpsing hope in the eyes of prison inmates or praying for his co-workers and their families. At 81, there isn’t much Robinson, who drives for NFI, hasn’t seen or done. Robinson doesn’t look or act like an octogenarian, and his youthful appearance dovetails with his abilities. He can climb in and out of a semi-truck dozens of times a day and crank the fifth wheel handle with ease, as shown in a recent company video chronicling his career. “Whenever there’s a call from the mill at International Paper or if there is word that the paper supply is running low, Howard jumps into action and ensures the customer’s needs are fulfilled without fail,” according to a statement from NFI leadership. That hard work and dedication to his co-workers and company have earned Robinson honors as one of the Truckload Carriers Association’s (TCA) 2024 Drivers of the Year. Robinson is “a shining example of perseverance, professionalism, and safety in the transportation industry,” according to TCA. He first got behind the wheel of a big rig while serving in the Army, and he has been a professional driver for three decades. He began his civilian career with MCO Transport, which was acquired by NFI in 2022. In addition to his dedication to his company and customers, Robinson is devoted to his family and his community. As a man of faith, he works to be a living example of Christ. During his off time, he and his wife, Judy, lead a prison ministry and teach Bible study at a local nursing home. “I got saved back in ’91,” he shared, describing his route to prison ministry, a mission that is dear to his heart. “I went to church,” said Robinson, who says he had several brushes with the law in his younger days. “This man was preaching about it. He said, ‘Well, you (should) take your testimony to the prison.’” Two weeks later, after praying and thinking about the matter, he was back at the same church and decided to minister to inmates in prisons and county jails. He and Judy now lead regular services for inmates. During his time in the Army, Robinson says, he struggled with several addictions — including drugs, alcohol and gambling — at times. He speaks of the prisoners he helps like family, sharing his story of deliverance through his belief in God. “You know, they have their regular chapel there,” he said. “We’ve been doing it for — it’s been, I guess 20, 25 years maybe. But it’s been a joy. Some guys come out (of prison) to become preachers, and some guys go out and come right back (to jail). But that’s between them and God.” Robinson also shares his love of God with his co-workers. “We go to church together sometimes, and he’s always praying for me and my family and my mom. I really appreciate that because I didn’t have that when I was coming up from my dad,” said Daje L., who works as a transportation ops clerk at NFI. “He really came into my life and showed me what a father figure is supposed to look like,” she continued. During his 30 years in the industry, Robinson has achieved a perfect record of zero accidents and zero violations. He stresses the importance of safety at every turn. In 2023, he was a recipient of NFI’s Million Mile Award, and recently he was inducted into NFI’s Haul of Fame. “It’s exciting to have one of our own recognized with such an honor by the TCA. We pride ourselves on safety and our people,” said Brian Webb, president of port services at NFI. “Driving for more than 30 years and over a million miles without any accidents or violations is admirable. Howard sets a great example for all drivers, and we’re proud to have him on our team.” Robinson is described by his co-workers as someone with a radiant personality, never-ending smile and conscientious nature. “He is highly regarded and cherished by his team, customers, management, friends, and family,” notes an NFI statement about Robinson’s Million Mile Award. “Often the first in the yard and the last to leave, Howard is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure the job gets done. “(Howard) has transformed a troubled past and the lives of others through his unwavering commitment to his faith, family, and community,” the news release continues. “This award is a testament to his drive for excellence and paves the way for current and future NFI drivers.” Judy Robinson, reflecting on her husband’s accolades, says she’s grateful to God for being able to spend her life with him and see him succeed. “As our relationship progressed, I just saw the need for it … being a servant for the Lord,” she shared. “I’m just thankful that the Lord took what the devil meant for evil and used it for good.” Robinson is the first to say that he is the man he is today because God saved him. “I mean, the alcohol, the drugs, the carousing and all — God delivered me that day I was saved,” he said. “And then from that day on, I haven’t been the same. “I’ve never pulled a tab on a beer can, a beer bottle, since. I give all the glory to God.”

2024-25 WIT Index: The rise of women in trucking roles and what it means for the future

ARLINGTON, Va.– The Women In Trucking Association (WIT) has released findings of its 2024-25 WIT Index which is the industry’s barometer to benchmark and measure the percentage of women who make up critical roles in transportation. According to a WIT press release, these roles include corporate management (C-Suite), those who serve on boards of directors, management and supervisory roles and functional roles such as operations, technicians, HR/talent management, safety and professional drivers. “From August 2023 through April 2024, WIT conducted a survey of organizations of all sizes in transportation to gather percentages of women in their workforce,” WIT said in the release. “The respondents were asked to report data that included demographics, status of the company’s diversity and inclusion policy, and percentages of females in various roles within the company.” Approximately 350 respondents reported their organizations’ gender diversity statistics in the WIT Index (2024-25) survey. A majority of them (51.5%) represent for-hire motor carriers or companies with private fleets as part of the organization’s operations. Of those respondents representing organizations with fleet assets, 38% are for-hire motor carriers of various types (full truckload, less-than-truckload, refrigerated, flatbed, expedited and liquid) and 13.5% are manufacturers, retailers, distributors, and other company types with private fleets. Another 13.5% of respondents are intermediary companies, including third-party logistics companies, truck brokers, and intermodal marketing companies (IMCs). “The 2024-25 WIT Index survey found a substantial number of women in influential leadership roles,” WIT said. “Approximately 28% in C-Suite/executive positions are women, 34.5% in supervisory leadership roles are women, and 29.5% of those who serve on boards of directors are women.” A significant percentage of women also hold roles in these functions: 74.5% in human resources/talent management, 38.5% in dispatcher roles, and 38.5% in safety. However, only 4% of truck diesel technicians are women. “It has been a common assumption for years that the size of companies with for-hire or private fleets have a correlation to the percentage of professional truck drivers who are women,” WIT said. “For the first time, the 2024-25 WIT Index reported percentage of professional truck drivers who are women based upon company workforce size. According to this year’s WIT Index, micro/small companies with less than 500 employees report that 12.5% of their overall professional driver population who hold CDLs are women. Large/medium enterprises with 500 to 4,999 employees report that approximately 10.5% of their overall professional driver workforce who hold CDLs are women. Giant/major enterprises with more than 5,000 employees report that approximately 7% of their truck driver population who hold CDLs are women. It’s important to note that these percentages reflect professional truck drivers who hold CDLs and are driving medium- to heavy-duty commercial trucks, not last-mile or delivery vans or other vehicles that are not heavy-duty trucks.” Click on the following links to review specific data. Percentages of company types Percentages of C-Suite/executives Percentages of supervisory leadership Percentages of boards of directors Percentages of HR/talent management Percentages of dispatchers Percentages of safety professionals Percentages of technicians Percentages of female professional drivers

Garrett Steenblik journeys from health crisis to wellness as an over-the-road trucker

Garrett Steenblik’s story as a truck driver isn’t a typical one — but it is certainly inspirational. Just a few years into his driving career, Steenblik says he realized the sedentary lifestyle and poor eating habits he developed on the road had placed him in a life-threatening health crisis. “I was trapped in a cycle of daily nausea, excruciating pain and sleepless nights, burdened with diagnoses of fatty liver disease and ulcers,” he told The Trucker. “On top of that, I battled crippling anxiety, depression and PTSD from a childhood consumed by abuse.” To cope, Steenblik started a regimen. Unfortunately, it was not a regimen that would lead to a positive outcome. He developed a habit of chugging three Mountain Dews a day and binge eating, desperately trying to escape the pain that consumed him. It didn’t take long for these destructive habits to take a toll on his overall health. A journey faced by many Steenblik isn’t the first driver to face health- and diet-related challenges on the job — and he certainly won’t be the last. By its very nature, over-the-road trucking presents unique barriers to balanced nutrition and regular physical activity. “While our society depends on the vital work of the trucking industry, truck drivers have scant support in maintaining their well-being,” he said. “This is a public health crisis.” Steenblik is matter of fact when he discusses the role motor carriers — at least those he observes — play in the lives of employees. “We’re expected to work 10-14 hours a day — over 70 hours a week,” he said, noting that this schedule leaves little to no time for meal planning and exercise. According to Steenblik, many truckers subsist on cheap, readily accessible meal options, such as fast food and gas station snacks — and he should know. He was one of them. Luckily, Steenblik reached a breaking point, one where he recognized he was caught in a personal health crisis. Unfortunately, many drivers never have that realization. “I decided to change while I was hunched over a toilet bowl, feeling defeated. I realized I was a victim of my own choices, and I refused to remain a hostage to my past” he said. “In that moment of desperation, I found a flicker of determination” he continued. “I channeled the same discipline I used to navigate the open roads into a fierce commitment to my own health.” Challenges along the journey Steenblik knew the road ahead would be hard, and he knew he didn’t have all the answers — but that feeling was not foreign to him. After all, he’d faced the unknown when he entered the trucking industry after leaving a sedentary, dead-end tech job and watching his weight grow to 360 pounds. Among the first challenges ahead was the financial cost of making personal health changes. As with many truckers’ health care plans, he says, his insurance plan’s coverage of preventative health care and weight loss treatment was inadequate — and his health had deteriorated to the point that the out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare associated with his wellness journey would be in the tens of thousands of dollars. On top of that, the monetary cost was actually one of the least of his challenges: Changing his lifestyle would take perseverance and strength from within like nothing he’d ever undertaken in his 24 years. “My demanding driving schedule necessitates long hours seated behind the wheel,” he explained. “The lifestyle impedes regular physical activity and encourages reliance on cheap, calorically dense convenience foods.” Steenblik knew he needed a strategy. The first order of business, he says, was to work on his diet and adopt an exercise regimen. “I lost my first 100 pounds simply by running in place for 45 minutes a day over 11 months,” he said. However, as he discovered, “I couldn’t outrun a poor diet.” Despite a rigorous exercise routine, his weight climbed as he continued to binge eat. “My breakthrough came when I learned about total daily energy expenditure and basal metabolic rate,” he said. “I began to understand how many calories my body burned daily and how to eat in a calorie deficit for weight loss.” Steenblik adopted a low-carb, whole-food diet, practiced intermittent fasting — and swapped hamburgers and fries for vegetables and lean protein. “As I improved my diet and exercise, my depression, anxiety and trauma began to lose their grip on my life,” he said. “I realized that mental health starts with physical health, and I found I could reshape my identity and heal.” A partner on the journey During his journey to better health, Steenblik says he received a lot of support from his wife — who also happens to have been Steenblik’s team driving partner for eight years. “My wife, Yvonne, is a powerful source of accountability and support. She’s played an essential role in my health journey through her love and encouragement,” he said, adding that his wife, who is certified in hazmat and tanker operations, is an active team driver. “We drive as a team, balancing the demands of our job with maintaining our health,” he said. However, he says, his wife faces additional challenges to maintaining her health on the road. “It’s not always safe for her to exercise outside alone, especially as a night driver,” he said. “Team driving is intense and requires immense coordination and trust. While one of us drives, the other rests, making it challenging to find time for exercise.” But together, they made the journey. “We both made it a priority to work out during breaks or while waiting to load — doing body-weight exercises regardless of conditions,” he said. It was a slow process — in fact, his journey spanned five years — but Steenblik eventually reached his health goals. And those goals were ones that anyone, regardless of their profession, should be proud to achieve. “I ultimately reached 155 pounds, primarily through keto (diet) and intermittent fasting,” he said. “It took years to lose 200 pounds through diet and exercise.” The massive weight loss left him with an extraordinary amount of sagging skin that could only be removed through surgery. This required time and money, not only for the operation, but also to recuperate. “I used weight-loss medication to manage the weight fluctuations during recovery, going up to 185 pounds and then back down to my normal weight of around 160,” Steenblik said. A continuing journey While his personal mission has been achieved, Steenblik says he continues to face daily challenges in order to maintain his weight and health. He wants to use his journey to inspire other drivers to take charge of their health. “My personal experience of fighting to get my health back while fulfilling my job requirements brought me face to face with the enormous obstacles that truckers face in maintaining a healthy lifestyle,” he said. “My story of returning to wellbeing while driving is exceptional, but it shouldn’t be,” he continued. “My mission is to bring attention to the unique obstacles drivers face when it comes to accessing health care and implementing lifestyle changes.” Steenblik hopes his story raises awareness about rampant health issues in the trucking industry. “I offer myself as a resource for fellow truckers looking to improve their overall well-being,” he said. “I connect and offer free health consulting in trucking groups on Facebook, reaching truckers on forums they can easily access.” Steenblik uses his personal story as a call to action for other drivers — and people in general — who are unhealthy. “I encourage readers to evaluate their own health needs and support wellness initiatives within the industry,” he said. “Draw inspiration from one another and join the movement toward better health in trucking.”

Harness the power of your thoughts and feelings: The road to self-awareness for truckers

Navigating the roads is much like navigating the pathways of the mind. With approximately 60,000 to 70,000 thoughts daily, a trucker’s mind is ever active, mirroring the relentless hum of tires on pavement. Yet 90% of these thoughts are repeats of our previous days. This repetition leaves only 10% for fresh, innovative thinking — unless we consciously step into new behaviors, environments, conversations and routines. For truck drivers, the expansive hours alone can become a canvas for personal transformation, painting a picture of who we are and who we could become. Understanding the Languages of Mind and Body Our thoughts are the “language” of the brain, shaping our cognitive experiences and forming the blueprint of our actions. Our feelings, on the other hand, are the language of the body, expressive, visceral responses to the worlds within and outside us. With awareness of how these two interact, we can avoid being driven by habituated patterns and never shift out of autopilot. Building self-awareness is critical for steering our lives towards our desired destinations. Just as you use your mirrors to check your environment while driving, self-awareness helps us keep an eye on our internal world and make necessary adjustments. 3 Steps to Developing Self-Awareness Mindful Reflection: Challenge your current thoughts. Use the quiet stretches of the road to reflect on your thinking patterns. Are they serving you or hindering you? Mindfulness apps or scheduled thinking, breathing, or meditation breaks can guide you from that repetitious thinking. Journaling: Keep a journal in your cab and jot down thoughts and feelings as they arise, or record voice notes using the hands-free feature on your smartphone. This can help you detect patterns and identify what triggers stress or joy on the road. Educate Yourself: Reading, listening to podcasts and engaging in conversations about psychological topics can provide new perspectives and stimulate different ways of thinking, disrupting the repetition of thoughts from your yesterdays. 3 Steps to Living a Happy, Joyous Life Cultivate Positivity: Begin with gratitude. Start or end your day by listing three things you’re grateful for. A positive mindset can shift your body chemistry, influencing your feelings and actions. Connect with Others: Modern technology allows us to remain connected to others even on long hauls. Regular calls with loved ones or engaging in online communities of fellow truckers can bring joy and a sense of belonging. Just be careful not to go down the negative rabbit holes so often seen in social media — that will suck the life out of you before you know it. Invest in Yourself: Whether it’s picking up a new hobby, learning a new language through audiobooks or practicing a craft during breaks, personal investment leads to joyous fulfillment. For truckers, the solitary confines of the cab can be a sanctuary for self-discovery. Just as you maneuver through traffic, weather, and the contours of the land, so too can you navigate the terrains of your mind and heart. By actively engaging in new behaviors and breaking the monotony you can open the door to a world that’s brimming with possibilities. Instead of succumbing to the muscle memory of routine thoughts and behaviors, choose to live differently. Truck driving doesn’t have to be a solitary endeavor of the mind. Through self-awareness and intentional living, it can be a journey not just of miles but also of personal growth. Each mile can be a mile of learning, healing and becoming, setting the course for a life worth driving toward. Remember this: You are the driver, both in the seat of your mind and in your vehicle. Take control, steer consciously and embark on the most critical journey of your lifetime — the journey within.

Trucking Diva’s Rock: Dee Sova honored for championing women in the trucking industry

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Prime Inc. driver Dee Sova has been recognized by the American Trucking Associations’ Trucking Cares Foundation with the 2024 Trucking Cares Foundation’s John Lex Premier Achievement Award for her many contributions, including the founding of Trucking Diva’s Rock, an online community for female truck drivers. “Dee is the real deal – someone whose personal and professional story has been assembled throughout her adult life,” said Chris Spear, ATA president and CEO. “As a life coach to women in the industry, mentor to grieving parents and widows and a professional driver with 33 years and three million safe driving miles under her belt, she starts each day with the goal of making a difference in other peoples’ lives. Dee has given a face and voice to the more than 350,000 independent contractors across the country who chose to support the trucking industry and our nation’s economy.” Sova received Prime’s 2017 Highway Diamond of the Year award and is a member of Prime’s Driver Advisory Board, according to an ATA press release. She is the founder of Trucking Divas Rock, an online community for female truck drivers. The groups also has a YouTube channel as well. Sova has also held several leadership positions with Mothers Against Drunk Driving. The Trucking Cares Foundation is the trucking industry’s charitable arm, focusing on several core areas, including humanitarian and disaster relief; eradicating human trafficking; leadership development; strengthening the industry’s relationships with law enforcement, the military and veterans’ organizations; and safety and research opportunities.

A helping hand on the highway: Trucking Cares donates 10K to support colleagues

WASHINGTON—The Trucking Cares Foundation as donated $10,000 to the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, a non-profit dedicated to supporting the families of truckers who have been sidelined due to injuries or illnesses. “Trucking is a close-knit family, and whenever one of our brothers or sisters falls on difficult times, we band together to help them get back on their feet,” said Phil Byrd, chairman of the Trucking Cares Foundation. “Whether it’s delivering the products that Americans depend on each day or transporting humanitarian relief when disasters strike, truck drivers are always there to serve our communities.  The St. Christopher Fund honors the sacrifices truck drivers make by having their backs when their families need it most.” According to a foundation press release, the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, founded in 2007, provides financial assistance to Class A CDL over-the-road truck drivers when an illness or injury forces them out of work.  Over the past 15 years, the St. Christopher Fund has helped nearly 4,000 truckers cover nearly $5 million in necessary household expenses such as rent and mortgage payments, utility bills, vehicle loans, and insurance.  The organization also offers free preventative health and wellness initiatives such as diabetes prevention, smoking cessation, vaccines, cancer screening, and chronic disease management. “We are deeply grateful for the Trucking Cares Foundation’s continued support and generosity,” said Shannon Currier, director of philanthropy for the St. Christopher Fund.  “This donation provides essential support for drivers and their families by providing financial relief and free health and wellness programs that impact driver health and retention.”

New to the road? Here’s what you need to know when packing for a run

Ask 50 truck drivers what you should plan to bring along when you make your first solo trip and you’ll likely get 50 different answers, including a few that start, “Well, it depends.” That’s a good place to start. Depending on the truck you’re driving — whether it’s assigned by the carrier you work for or one you bought to launch your business — you’ll need to know how much storage space is available. In addition to a place to stow your clothing and personal items, you’ll need to know if there’s cold storage for food and drinks. Some trucks are equipped with small refrigerators and electric inverters that supply 120-volt electricity for any appliances you’ll use. In others, you’ll need to supply a cooler, either one that you fill with bags of ice or an electric one that plugs in. Once you know how much space you have, it’s time to start packing. What will you wear? You’ll need enough clothing to last the duration of your trip — or at least until you have time and a place to wash them. Most truck stops have laundry facilities, but they aren’t always available when needed and they can be expensive to use on a regular basis. Some clothing might be worn multiple days, like a pair of jeans (as long as you don’t get overly dirty or sweaty). Fresh undergarments and a clean shirt can help you feel cleaner even when you can’t shower. You’ll need sturdy footwear, too. Whether you choose boots or shoes, they should provide plenty of support when you’re climbing in and out of the truck or walking around on questionable surfaces. It’s a good idea to bring a jacket along, even in summer. In certain parts of the country, especially at high elevations, it can get chilly any time of year. It’s always better to have a jacket and not need it than the other way around. Just for good measure, add a hat and some gloves, too. What will you eat? When it comes to meals on the road, one of the fastest ways to quickly go broke (and ruin your health) is to eat every meal at restaurants and truck stops. Plus, you’ll eventually find yourself in a situation where a restaurant isn’t available at the time you need it. If you have a refrigerator, pack some lunch meat, cheese, condiments, fruit/veggies — whatever you like. You can make a few days’ worth of sandwiches for the cost of a single truck stop meal. Be sure to pack some non-perishable food, too. Cans of soup, stew, chili or whatever you like; tuna is great for protein. Packaged protein bars or crackers and peanut butter come in handy when there’s no time to prepare something. You don’t have to stick to cold sandwiches, either. There are several ways to cook in your truck. You can find 12-volt appliances to heat soups, make coffee and even pop popcorn, but the most popular appliance is a small microwave oven. Consider the capacity of the inverter in your truck (you may need to provide your own the one you provide), and make sure it’ll handle the voltage requirements of your microwave. Paper plates and bowls make cleanup a snap. Don’t forget the bottled water. Even in cold weather, dehydration can be a problem. Air conditioning removes moisture from the air and, while doing so, removes it from your body, too. Carry your favorite non-alcoholic beverages (the more water, the better). Where will you sleep? Bunk mattresses come in all sizes, and bedding can be expensive. Plain flat sheets fit most bunks but tucking them in constantly can be inconvenient. Measure your mattress carefully, and don’t be afraid to get creative. You can make a “pillowcase” that fits some mattresses by folding a king-size flat sheet in half and sewing the long side and one short side. It’ll stay tucked and the mattress can be flipped to the unused side. You’ll also need blankets or a comforter. A large sleeping bag can do double duty and keep you from coming in contact with the mattress. A favorite pillow will help you sleep better. What else will you need? Unless you’ll be home every day, you’ll need toiletries. Buy a duplicate of each product you use at home, such as shaving cream, soap, shampoo, deodorant and toothpaste. Baby wipes are great when you don’t have access to soap and water! Household medications like pain killers or antacids are good to add. Most truck stops have a 24-hour C-store available — but beware. The “C” stands for “convenience,” not “cheap.” Buy your toiletries, your food and beverages and any other items when you’re at home, or you can stop at a regular grocery or box store. Use the C-store when other choices aren’t available. If you take any prescribed medication, make sure you bring enough for your expected time out, and then some more. It’s best to keep it in the original prescribed bottles to avoid any suspicion of illegal possession. How will you pay for things? Think about how you intend to pay for things while you travel. Many drivers use cash, taking advances from their fuel cards as needed. This practice can deplete the next paycheck in a hurry. Using debit cards to pay for purchases is an option but drawing cash from an ATM often results in charges both from the truck stop and your bank. Credit cards carry interest fees and often result in surcharges when used. However you pay, it’s a good idea to stash some cash somewhere in your truck so that if you lose your wallet or purse, you’ll have something to fall back on. Some drivers carry blank checks to pay for any repairs without incurring credit card fees. Anything else? Electronic devices are a part of daily life, and you’ll need your cellphone. You may also need a laptop or tablet, both for record-keeping and for communication. Before you leave home, download any apps you might need on the road. If you’ll need your own GPS, bring that, too. Mapping software on phones often doesn’t provide trucking information. Make sure you have any login information and passwords you’ll need to log into any accounts you’ll need to access while on the road. Your carrier may provide you with a copy of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSRs) and an Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG). Store these where you can get at them, if needed. If you haul hazardous materials, keep the ERG with the load paperwork. Being on the road has its own difficulties, but you can be as safe and comfortable as possible with a little planning and careful packing. Safe travels!

Breaking barriers: The inspiring story of driver Julia Lepek

While women drivers are making waves in the United States and across the world, according to statistics, only two to three percent of all trucks in Germany are driven by women. This fact makes many of these women, like Julia Lepek, all the more enthusiastic about driving. Born in Poland, she has lived in Germany since 2013, and what she appreciates most is the assistance systems on board these vehicles.  Alternating between driving a Mercedes-Benz Actros and an Actros L for the shipping company Große-Vehne Speditions GmbH in Kornwestheim near Stuttgart. When Lepek talks about her everyday life as a professional driver, it quickly becomes clear that many of her male colleagues underestimate her ability behind the wheel of a truck. However, it is not enough to take the fun out of the job for her. “That’s the reality, unfortunately,” Lepek said. “I always like showing men that I can do this. If a man can work in a nail salon or do make-up, why shouldn’t I be able to drive a truck as a woman?” Lepek said she often catches surprised glances as she overtakes other vehicles on the highway and she sees others watching with excitement as she skillfully performs difficult maneuvers on the delivery ramp. Lepek also notices the critical looks she receives in other traffic situations. Lepek has driven her Mercedes-Benz Actros for five years now, loaded mainly with parts for passenger cars trucks, and buses bearing the three-pointed star, and primarily across southern Germany and France for Große-Vehne Speditions GmbH. This shipping company specializes in logistical services for sectors including the automotive, textile, and beverage industries. Prior to this,  Lepek completed three years of professional driver training with the cooperative network GV Trucknet, which operates almost 1,200 of its own trucks – mostly from Mercedes-Benz. “There have always been a lot of truck drivers in my family. As a young girl, I was fascinated by the job and, above all, by the vehicles themselves,” Lepek said. “I always like the feeling I get when I climb in my truck and hit the road – you feel free somehow, and you have the opportunity to discover new areas.” At the same time, her job has helped her become more self-confident. “This is because I mastered my training program with ease,” Lepek said. As such, she can also give some useful tips to her younger female colleagues at the company who are currently working on their professional driver training and who frequently accompany her on her trips. Lepek travels almost 100,000 kilometers per year easily and it goes without saying that she has had to master many different hazardous traffic situations. “But I feel very safe in my Actros,” Lepek said. According to Lepek, at Große-Vehne, the primary focus is on using the high-tech equipment in its trucks in addition to the assistance systems already required. “The comfort and safety of our drivers is our top priority,” said René Große-Vehne, managing director of GV Management. Lepek considers the Active Brake Assist 5 on board her Actros to be incredibly valuable, as it has already served her well on many occasions. “I could not have braked so quickly myself in many situations because my view was obstructed, but fortunately Active Brake Assist 5 responded immediately and brought my truck to a stop,” Lepek said. “In my opinion, women generally drive more defensively, think ahead a lot, take fewer risks, and keep more distance.” Lepek said that in her experience, respect for other drivers has decreased and aggressiveness has increased. When asked about her dream truck, the answer was immediate. Lepek’s dream truck is an Actros L in pink with a GigaSpace cab. She already drives a silver Actros L on occasion. In addition to the classic assistance systems, Lepek values the MirrorCam, the Multimedia Cockpit and the fuel efficiency and economy of the third-generation OM 471 commercial vehicle engine. But it will soon be time for her to switch gears in terms of drive technology, because her next vehicle will be an eActros 300. “I am very much looking forward to this, because the vehicle dynamics, the silent cruising, and the barely noticeable gear changes are very impressive,” Lepek said. “The most important thing for me is to arrive at my destination without an accident.”

Finalists announced for 2024 Transition Trucking Driving for Excellence Award  

CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Finalists for the 9th annual “Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence” award were recently announced by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program, Kenworth Truck Company and Fastport. This award honors military veterans who have made an outstanding transition into the commercial trucking industry. Through a comprehensive nomination process, careful review by a selection committee, and a final public vote, the program will recognize and reward America’s top rookie military veteran drivers. Ten semi-finalists were honored last week in Ohio, where they embarked on stops at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus and the Kenworth Chillicothe truck manufacturing plant. Highlights of the trip included a live appearance on Road Dog Trucking Radio’s Dave Nemo Show with Jimmy Mac, and an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Kenworth’s truck building facility. Finalists for 2024 are summarized below in alphabetical order by last name: Douglas Couch, U.S. Navy (E-5), Roehl Transport, Inc., Roehl Transport Training Douglas Couch served in the United States Navy from 2012-2016, onboard the USS Nimitz CVN 68. Douglas worked as a Culinary Specialist 2nd Class. In this role, he oversaw 50 sailors, feeding more than 5,000 Sailors and Marines while being forward deployed. Since transitioning into the trucking industry, Douglas has driven more than 150,000 miles and has shown a true and relentless dedication to safety. Brian Ferguson, U.S. Army and U.S. Army National Guard (E-7), Melton Truck Lines, Troops Into Transportation After serving in the Army for three years, Brian Ferguson joined the Texas National Guard and served more than ten years. Brian reenlisted in the Army and served 17 years until he retired with a combined 31 years of service. Brian deployed seven times overseas and domestically. Of those deployments, three were combat deployments. Brian pursued a truck driving career because he enjoys traveling and the hard work of flatbed driving. Shawn Haley, U.S. Marine Corps (E-4), Veriha Trucking LLC, Truck Driving Institute Shawn Haley served in the Marine Corps from 1987 to 1991. During this time, he served as security for President Ronald Reagan, First Lady Nancy Reagan, President George H. W. Bush, and First Lady Barbara Bush. Shawn became an entrepreneur who ran a successful business for 20 years. After that time, he pursued a new challenge, becoming a regional truck driver at Veriha where he enjoys seeing our great country. Billy Taylor, U.S. Coast Guard (E-7), Werner Enterprises, Roadmaster Drivers School Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, Billy lived in many locations across the United States during his parents’ U.S. Navy careers. He joined the U.S. Coast Guard in 2000 and served in various assignments including Port Security and Harbor Defense, Search and Rescue, Coast Guard Cutter deployments for drug interdiction/maritime defense, and served as a recruiter. He retired with 20 years of service in 2020 as a Chief Petty Officer, Machinery Technician. Billy now drives for Werner Enterprises on the Anheuser-Busch account in Columbus, Ohio. Cory Troxell, U.S. Army (E-7), Stevens Transport, Phoenix Truck Driving Institute Cory Troxell was born into service with his grandfather, father, and uncle serving with distinguished careers in the Army. Motivated by a strong sense of family pride, service, and patriotism following the events of 9/11, Cory enlisted into the Army in 2004. In 2009, Cory was severely wounded in an enemy IED attack, eventually earning him the Purple Heart. He continued to serve until his retirement in 2024. Drawing similarities to his decision to join the Army, he followed a trucking driving career path already cut by his family. This year’s Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award grand prize is a Kenworth T680, equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain featuring the PACCAR MX-13 engine rated at 455 horsepower, PACCAR TX-12 automated transmission and PACCAR DX-40 tandem rear axles. The Kenworth T680 features a Diamond VIT interior in slate gray with madrona accents and includes the latest in driver amenities. Both the driver and passenger seats are GT703 leather seats that are fully heated and cooled. The 76-inch sleeper includes space for a microwave and TV, a factory-installed fridge, and a rotating work table. The T680 also includes the latest in driver assistance systems, including Kenworth’s Digital Mirrors, Bendix Fusion Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) Stop and Auto Go, and Lane Keeping Assist with Torque Assisted Steering. While the winner will drive away in this state-of-the-art truck, the program will award a $10,000 prize for the runner-up and $5,000 for each remaining finalist. “Kenworth is proud to participate in this program that celebrates the accomplishments of military veterans transitioning into professional truck driving careers for the ninth consecutive year,” said Kevin Haygood, Kenworth assistant general manager for sales and marketing. “It was an honor to attend the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award event, and we look forward to awarding the Kenworth T680 truck to the winner in December.” Eric Eversole, Vice President of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and President of Hiring Our Heroes, remarked, “These finalists exemplify how skills developed in the military seamlessly transfer to successful careers in trucking. Their dedication and resilience continue to play a critical role in keeping America’s supply chain strong.” Brad Bentley, President of Fastport, added, “Our semi-finalists represent the best of what a Veteran-Ready trucking industry looks like. These individuals have successfully transitioned from military service to driving careers, and their stories inspire others to follow suit. They truly embody the potential of the next generation of trucking professionals.”

The Trucker, Trucker Path announce NTDAS winners

PHOENIX – The Trucker and Trucker Path announced that Joe Plaziak from Temple, Texas is the grand prize winner of the third annual National Truck Driver Appreciation Sweepstakes (NTDAS). Plaziak hauls dry freight on routes between Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Greensboro, North Carolina for Big M Transportation, a freight transportation and logistics company located in Blue Mountain, Mississippi. “I became a commercial truck driver a little over one year ago because I saw it as an opportunity to make a good living,” Plaziak said. “Being named the Grand Prize winner in the NTDAS was a complete surprise, but it is very much appreciated because it will be a big help on the road. Especially as a new driver, I’m grateful to know that suppliers recognize how hard a job truck driving can be, and that they appreciate our dedication.” The NTDAS Grand prize included: ●      $2,500 in Sheetz gift cards ●      $2,500 AMEX gift card, compliments of Double Coin Tires ●      25 complimentary one-night vouchers, good at any US Motel 6 ●      $500 ExxonMobil fuel card ●      Apple iPad, compliments of ZOA Energy Drinks ●      Beats by Dre Bluetooth Headphones, compliments of ZOA Energy Drinks ●      ZOA Energy Drinks RTIC Wireless Bluetooth Speaker Cooler ●      ZOA Energy Drinks-branded clothing ●      12 months of SiriusXM, compliments of Trucker Path “I’m sure all the sponsors would agree that it’s great to see a new driver to the industry win the NTDAS Grand Prize this year,” said Chris Oliver, CMO at Trucker Path. “We started this sweepstakes three years ago as our way of recognizing professional truck drivers during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. Each year the number of sponsors, and thus the number of prizes, increases. We’re looking forward to next year!” The NTDAS recognizes the nation’s truck drivers with prizes that cater specifically to their everyday wants and needs. This year’s title sponsors included Trucker Path, The Trucker Media Group, Sheetz, Double Coin Tires, and Zoa Energy Drinks. Supporting sponsors included Motel 6 and ExxonMobil. The third annual NTDAS also included five weekly drawings for prize packages worth over $2,100 each. NTDAS Weekly Prize winners were: July 28: Jacob Stuii, Fairfield, California August 4: Dennis Whitman, Winterville, North Carolina August 11: Jeff Yount, Fort Myers, Florida August 18: Joseph Hendrix, Nahunta, Georgia August 25: Ryan Delrow, Appleton, Wisconsin Prizes for the weekly drawings included a $500 Sheetz gift card; a $500 AMEX gift card, compliments of Double Coin Tires; an RTIC Wireless Bluetooth Speaker Cooler and branded clothing, courtesy of ZOA Energy Drinks; five  omplimentary one-night vouchers, good at any US Motel 6; a $100 ExxonMobil fuel card; and 12 months of SiriusXM radio service, compliments of Trucker Path.

Western swing entertainer Spade Cooley detoured down a murderous path

It’s generally accepted that Bob Wills, along with his Texas Playboys, remains the “King of Western Swing.” But in the 1940s and early 1950s, a competition was afoot. While Wills held firm control of Western Swing bragging rights in Texas, on the West Coast, another musician — “Spade” Cooley — busily fought Bob Wills for the top spot. Cooley was indeed a fine musician, band leader and part-time silver screen star. He even had some accomplishments to back up his claim to being Hollywood’s “King of Western Swing.” But in spite of any acclaims Cooley received as an entertainer, his legacy is that of a vile human being. Donnell Clyde Cooley was born in 1910 in Grand, Oklahoma, a community that today is a ghost town a few miles east of the Texas Panhandle. Because he was one-quarter Cherokee, Cooley attended what was then known as an “Indian School” in Oregon. It was there he perfected the art of playing the fiddle — something his father had introduced him to back on the pre-depression Oklahoma farm. In fact, Cooley had his eyes set on becoming not just a fiddler but a violin virtuoso. However, he was held back from this goal by lack of access to a formal music education and violin-specific lessons. But he “made do” as what musicians might consider a second-rate violinist — a fiddler with flexibility to play varied forms of music. When he was 17, Cooley returned to Oklahoma and married his first wife. The entire family moved to the West Coast during the Dust Bowl years, however, and Cooley’s set out to forge his path. Unlike the rest of his family, he would not be a migrant farm laborer. His future was in music. Soon after arriving in California, Cooley earned the nickname “Spade” after a particularly successful run at the poker table. To hear Cooley tell the story, he drew three consecutive full houses of spades — but that claim is highly questionable. The odds of drawing a full house of spades just once are only 1 in 13,000. One can only imagine the odds of doing it three consecutive times! Regardless, the nickname stuck. It may have been an early indicator of Cooley’s shady character. While his family worked in the fields, Cooley took a job playing the fiddle in the Venice Pier Ballroom, a venue that drew thousands of dancers on weekend nights throughout the year. As lead fiddler in Jimmy Wakely’s Big Band, Cooley gained a lot of exposure. Then, when Wakely quit the band for a career as an actor, Cooley took over as bandleader. The following 18 months brought the Venice Pier Ballroom some of its biggest fame as Cooley took Bob Wills head-on in the fight for “King of Western Swing.” As part of his battle to be king, Cooley hired Tex Williams, a deep baritone, as his lead vocalist. Williams’ counterpart in Bob Wills’ Texas Playboys was the famed Tommy Duncan. As far as Cooley was concerned, the fight for supremacy was on. In 1944, Cooley recorded his first successful record, “Shame on You,” which perhaps offered a hint of what was to come as he embarked upon a womanizing, heavy-drinking lifestyle. The song sat at No. 1 for a full two months and was one of six consecutive Top 10 tunes he recorded. Perhaps Cooley’s most notable tune was “Detour (there’s a muddy road ahead),” a song that today still receives occasional airplay on online country music platforms. During this period, he married his second wife, Ella Mae Evans, a singer in his band. Despite Cooley’s immense success as a bandleader, his eye was on the silver screen. One afternoon, he was hanging around Gene Autry’s set, and Autry almost mistook Cooley for Roy Rogers. Autrey introduced the two, and Rogers hired Cooley to be his stand-in and stunt double. Cooley went on to appear in 38 western films. But Rogers recognized Cooley for his fiddle-playing even more than his acting. Cooley soon became lead fiddler in Roy Rogers band, “Riders of the Purple Sage.” The gig enabled Cooley to appear in even more western films during the 1940s. By 1948, Spade Cooley, a good-looking, well-spoken performer, attracted the attention of television producers. Soon he had his own variety show, aptly named “The Spade Cooley Show.” The show was a huge success on the West Coast and soon went national. It lasted until 1956 when executives cancelled it because of changing viewer patterns. Nonetheless, the television show, along with his other accomplishments in California’s entertainment scene, gained Cooley his own star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame. The concrete was poured in early 1960. If the Walk of Fame’s governing body had known what was to come, perhaps it wouldn’t have been so hasty to immortalize Spade Cooley’s name. By all visible accounts, Cooley’s second marriage was no different than any in Hollywood — high profile and followed by the media. The undertones of what went on in the Cooley household didn’t make the media; however, it was well-known that the marriage was not as smooth as it seemed. Cooley accused his wife of having an affair with Roy Rogers, something she later admitted to, either because it was fact or to merely suit the views of her increasingly drunken husband. In turn, she accused Cooley of being the womanizer he was already well known to be. She claimed he impregnated 10 women (none of them her) in a single year. The claims against his character didn’t set well with Cooley, but no one imagined how violent a man he had become. On April 3, 1961, Cooley and his wife had an argument at their home outside Los Angeles. Apparently wildly drunk and overcome with jealousy (Ella Mae had filed for divorce just days earlier), Cooley became increasingly violent. The ensuing fight is well-documented elsewhere, and there is no need to go into the details here. Quite simply, Spade Cooley beat his wife to death in front of their 14-year-old daughter. Cooley was soon arrested. He claimed innocence by reason of insanity. In a high-profile trial during which Cooley’s daughter testified against him, the state forced him to drop his insanity plea. He was found guilty and sentenced to life in prison. However, the judge ruled that Cooley was not a candidate to be imprisoned at one of California’s famed prison farms like Folsom or San Quentin, instead sentencing him to a state hospital. There, Cooley had an easy sentence. As a celebrity, he was welcomed by both the staff and inmates, and he regularly entertained and taught music classes. He served nine years of his sentence before being paroled effective February of 1970. It’s believed that actor-turned-California-governor Ronald Reagan was instrumental in granting Cooley his freedom. On November 23, 1969, shortly before his scheduled release, Cooley was granted permission to play a benefit concert in California’s Alameda County. He wowed the crowd — until the first intermission, when he went backstage to sign autographs and get ready for his second appearance. During that fateful intermission, he dropped dead of a massive heart attack. Many thought it was fitting for a man who had served so little time for such a heinous crime. In the years since, when one talks about the “King of Western Swing,” Spade Cooley hardly receives a mention. It is Bob Wills who ultimately claimed the title. Until next time, watch out for those detours, and let this story be a cautionary tale. Even a muddy road through crop fields might be better than what that deceptively glamorous route offers. Photo courtesy of the Oklahoma Historical Society

Southeastern Freight’s Sandy Sharp followed a family tradition into trucking

Sandy Sharp, a 30-plus year veteran of the trucking industry, has a storied history of her decades in the business, as well as tales of the highways and city streets as a driver for Southeastern Freight Lines. The multi-talented Tennessee native, who currently makes her home Nashville, told The Trucker that she was essentially born into the industry. “I came from a family with a trucking background,” Sharp said. “My dad drove, my brother drives, and my other brother works on trucks. It was just in the family.” Sharp’s entire professional career has been in the industry. After moving to Nashville as a teenager, her first major job, held from 1989-1993, was working as a traffic coordinator for a carrier. “I did the pricing and the routing of the trucks and stuff like that,” she said. Sharp joined Southeastern in July 1993, working in a nighttime clerical position. “I closed the loads out and scanned the bills for the billing people to bill on,” Sharp said. “After about six months or so, I moved to the daytime (shift), doing various clerical duties until I got into the OS&D (over, short and damaged) side of it.” Despite being content in her role, Sharp says she felt the call of the road, just as her father and brother did. “I had always told myself that if I could handle the freight, I would be driving,” she said. “One day I was on the dock inspecting some damaged freight and I thought, ‘You know, I’m handling this freight, and I have no trouble doing it.’ I thought, ‘I wanna go drive!’” Luckily for Sharp, Southeastern had a spot available in a training program. After earning her CDL in February 2004, she set out with a training partner to help her get a feel for the myriad of skills and tasks required for her new role, including moving her trailers in the yard, backing them into the dock and shuffling trailers around. “They hooked me up with a mentor and I rode with him through the town,” Sharp said. “He taught me how to navigate the city streets and how to get in and out of places. I had very good teachers, and they were willing to teach me so I could learn.” Sharp runs an urban route on the north side of Nashville, covering more than 100 miles per day. When asked if she ever gets bored or needs something to keep her mind occupied, she laughed. “The traffic in Nashville does that for you,” Sharp said. “Driving in the Nashville traffic on the city streets with a 53-foot trailer, you have got to be aware of what’s around you at all times. I have to stay focused on what I’m doing.” She says Southeastern has been a joy to work for. “To me they have some of the greatest people here in Nashville,” Sharp said. “I can’t give high enough praise. Everybody is willing to help one another out — and that goes for anything, whether it’s work-related or you need something fixed at your house. The people here are just great.” She says she’s made countless friends at Southeastern, many of them like family. “A lot of them call me Mama Sandy,” Sharp said. “There’s one friend who calls me Auntie, and then some of the others refer to me as Baby Girl. I’ve really been called that my whole life, since I have two brothers and no sisters.” Since taking a spot behind the wheel of a rig, Sharp says she’s received support from Southeastern and the trucking industry in general. In 2023 she was named the 2023 Regional Driver of the Year Award. “I felt honored, and it gave me a ‘big head,’” she joked. “I was extremely honored because we do have a lot of good drivers here and I felt just very fortunate and honored that they chose me.” After more than three decades in the trucking industry, Sharp has seen countless changes. One change she is particularly proud of is the evolving role of women in trucking. “When I first started, people would look at you like you were an alien for outer space,” Sharp said. “Over the years, the people have come to see ‘just another driver’ who happens to be female. You do see more and more women now compared to what it used to be when I first started, and I think it’s great.” Sharp says she encourages women to consider entering trucking as a career. “Yes, women can do this job, and it’s a great career to be in,” she said. “There’s no lack of jobs. To me it’s very rewarding … I’m outside all day and I get to hear the birds sing. I see all my different customers and get to build relationships with them. It’s just a great job.” Two of Sharp’s favorite things are being outdoors and finding a way to bring smiles to the faces of her customers. “If they’re having a bad day, I try to make sure they have a smile before I leave,” she said. Sharp’s love of the outdoors — she loves gardening in her spare time — led to one of her favorite stories to share about her job as a driver. However, it was her keen eye that helped save the day for a family of feathered friends. As she was driving in a small industrial area one day, she recounted, she saw a duck just walking back and forth. It struck her as odd, so she stopped to check on it. “Her six little ducklings were stuck in the drain,” Sharp said. “I couldn’t raise the grate because it had been welded shut. I called the fire department; (they) came and got the grate open and got the mama her ducklings back.” Now 57, Sharp says she wants to continue driving as long as she can … even if she eventually trades her current rig for an RV to explore the country with her husband.

Freight forward, drivers first: Georgia Ports Authority praises drivers

SAVANNAH, Ga. – The Georgia Ports Authority is celebrating its front-line customers in the motor carrier industry during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. “Our partners in the trucking industry are a critical link between our global vessel services and the domestic supply chain,” said Griff Lynch GPA president and CEO. “At Georgia Ports, every week is trucker appreciation week.” According to a media release, to acknowledge drivers’ contributions, GPA employees handed out safety gloves, bottles of water and chicken sandwiches at the terminal truck gates on Thursday. Lynch said GPA works daily to ensure a positive trucker experience, noting that gate and yard efficiency at the Port of Savannah’s Garden City Terminal help drivers complete more container moves each day. The release also noted that it takes only 8 minutes, 12 seconds on average for a driver entering the terminal to go from the biometric reading station, complete the check-in process and depart the gate canopy. The Port of Savannah achieved total truck turn times across July and August of only 34 minutes for a single-container move and 54 minutes for truckers delivering an export and picking up an import container. Approximately 80 percent of truck transactions at the Port of Savannah involve such double moves, compared to only 30 percent at major West Coast ports. “Savannah’s ability to quickly handle these dual transactions reduces the number of truck trips required to move the same cargo, avoids diesel emissions and allows drivers to be more profitable by handling more containers per day,” Lynch said. “Drivers in Savannah can make up to eight truck turns per day, compared to two per day at Southern California terminals.” Garden City Terminal averages approximately 14,000 truck moves each weekday, or around 7,000 trucks in, 7,000 trucks out, according to the most recent figures from the Georgia Ports Authority. Lynch added that truck turn times at the Port of Savannah are among the fastest of any major port. “Our 1,500-acre single-terminal model in Savannah means drivers do not have to go through multiple gate transactions when handling cargo from two different shipping lines,” Lynch said. Georgia is investing both on- and off-terminal to accommodate the free flow of cargo. “Whether it’s across the terminal or across the state, Georgia Ports provides the infrastructure and customer service necessary to ensure freight moves safely and without congestion,” said Kent Fountain, GPA board chairman. “The Peach State understands the importance of a reliable logistics network.”

Honoring highway heroes: SCF celebrates Truck Driver Appreciation Week

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. –  The St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund (SCF) is celebrating another Truck Driver Appreciation Week to show gratitude and recognition to truck drivers with the support of several corporate sponsors, including Blue Beacon, Southern Recipe, Pilot Company, Truckstop.com, Echo Global Logistics, Shell Rotella, Raney’s Truck Parts, Fullbay and  Brenny Transportation. “While we at the St. Christopher Fund, along with our sponsors, show our appreciation for truck drivers all year long, Truck Driver Appreciation Week is a special time where everyone involved can elevate that appreciation on a bigger stage,” said Shannon Currier, director of philanthropy with SCF. “Truck drivers are the backbone of our economy and work hard every day to make sure we have food on our tables, clothes on our backs, medical supplies, and more.  We see and appreciate you, drivers, and greatly appreciation the support of everyone in our industry.”  According to an SCF press release, each of the sponsors has made a donation to this year’s St. Christopher National Truck Driver Appreciation Week campaign ranging from $1,000 – $25,000, which will run through September 30. The campaign includes a landing page with a video sharing statements of support, and pictures and stories of drivers that are the backbone of the corporate sponsors.  This year the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund will also be hosting a Hope-A-Thon across all of its social media channels with live interviews with campaign sponsors and SCF beneficiaries and health and wellness program participants throughout the month of September.  “SCF is the only non-profit in the industry tangibly supporting drivers when they are out of work because of injury or illness,” the release said. “SCF also has proven success with our FREE Health and Wellness programs including tobacco cessation, diabetes prevention, chronic disease management, flu, pneumonia and shingles vaccine vouchers, and prostate and colon cancer screenings.” The St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund was founded in 2008 by Dr. John McElligott (“Dr. John”), radio host Dave Nemo of the Dave Nemo Show (XM Radio Channel 146) and his business partner Michael Burns. It began when Dr. John felt compelled to take action after witnessing hundreds of truck drivers and their families struggle to survive as a result of catastrophic illness or injury. Dr. John found willing partners in Nema and Michael and together they launched the truck driver charity to come to the aid of professional drivers in need.  To date, the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund (SCF) has provided $4.8+ million directly to bill holders on behalf of nearly 4,000 professional Class A over-the-road semi-truck drivers. 

ATA thanks Boozman, Kelly for leading senate recognition of America’s truckers

Washington – The American Trucking Associations (ATA) thanked U.S. Senators John Boozman and Mark Kelly for introducing a Senate resolution celebrating America’s truckers and designating the week of September 15-21, 2024 as “National Truck Driver Appreciation Week.” “National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is an opportunity for us as a nation to take stock of the countless ways truckers provide for all of us,” said Chris Spear, ATA president and CEO. “Their impact can be seen and felt everywhere, because everything we want or need is moved by truck. We applaud Senators Boozman and Kelly for leading this bipartisan effort to recognize the extraordinary hard work, dedication, and sacrifice of America’s professional drivers.  Our reliance on truckers is absolute, and our appreciation for them should be as well.  This resolution serves as a reminder of their indispensable role in our daily lives.” National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is a nationwide opportunity to formally recognize professional truck drivers’ efforts. State trucking associations, industry suppliers, and motor carriers of all sizes host appreciation events for the men and women who safely deliver more than 70% of the country’s total freight tonnage. “I’m proud to support the men and women who drive long hours to deliver goods and products across the country and move our communities forward,” Senator Boozman said. “Arkansas truckers play a crucial role in our economy. I’m honored to recognize their work and committed to continue championing policies to help enhance their industry.” According to a media release, ATA brought Interstate One – a tractor-trailer equipped with a mobile classroom for public education – to Capitol Hill, where professional truck drivers from America’s Road Team met with Members of Congress and their staffs to discuss the essential role that trucking plays in our economy.  Legislators and staff had the chance to test their driving skills in friendly competition on Interstate One’s simulator. “Truckers are the backbone of our economy, driving long hours to deliver the goods that keep stores stocked and businesses running,” said Senator Kelly. “National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is an important recognition of the sacrifices they make every day. I will continue to support policies that make their jobs safer and our supply chains stronger.” Click here to read the Senate resolution.

Build core fitness from the driver’s seat and help reduce back pain

As a truck driver, you spend countless hours behind the wheel, navigating various terrains and enduring long periods of sitting. Your truck seat supports you mile after mile, but is your own body’s support system — your core area — up to the task? Back pain isn’t just a possibility without adequate core strength; it’s an impending reality. Your body’s foundation matters on the road. Before delving into core exercises or ergonomic truck seats, let’s talk about where your core strength begins — your feet. Surprised? You shouldn’t be. On the open road, everything starts from the ground up. The same could be said for your body. Your foot health determines your core system’s integrity, influencing your posture and potential for pain. It’s time to kick off those shoes whenever possible, stimulate your feet and integrate practices like massage with a tennis ball, calf stretching and toe movements into your daily routine. It’ll ignite your physical circuit board for better core performance and less strain! Build your core strength from the ground up. Think of your body’s core area as a building. To build a sturdy core, start with your “foundation” (your feet) and make your way up to your “walls” (your pelvic region). These aren’t just simple checkpoints; they’re a comprehensive path toward achieving a neutral, pain-free posture. Align the outer edges of your feet, straighten the fold lines behind your knees, and stack your pelvis (straighten out that curvature in your back and align your spine so your ribcage is “stacked” above your pelvis). It might initially feel odd, especially if your driving routine has led to twisted and misaligned muscles. Lay the “flooring” for optimal core strength. Your pelvic floor is pivotal. An ignored or weak pelvic floor is like having a hole in the floor of your truck; eventually, everything starts to fall apart. Get intimate with this area. Know the landmarks: pubis bone, sitz bones and tailbone. From there, build control and awareness, maneuvering through contractions without relying on your glutes. Secure the “roofing.” Just as with any well-constructed building, your rib cage — the “roof” — needs proper alignment. A misaligned rib cage will snowball into many issues that will have a negative impact on your back, shoulders and neck. Think foundationally now instead of bracing for a backache on your next haul. Address your body’s mechanics from feet to pelvic floor to rib cage, and you’ll experience a remarkable difference. Your core is more than just muscle. It’s an integrated system essential for enduring who you are as a trucker — vigilant, enduring, and always on the move. Every truck driver deserves to be pain-free both during and beyond their journeys. Start building your body like a house that’s meant to last for the long haul.

Truckers get the recognition they deserve with Transport Enterprise Leasing’s month-long giveaway

CHATTANOOGA Tenn.  — Transport Enterprise Leasing (TEL) has turned Truck Driver Appreciation Week into a month-long celebration of the professional drivers who move goods that drive the American economy, with weekly giveaways throughout the month of September. According to a company press release, TEL, which supports owner-operators with solutions for leasing and purchasing trucking equipment, celebrating individual hard-working truck drivers all month long with giveaways, including a Trucker GPS, a hotel gift card, truck wash certificates, branded apparel and more. Certified CDL drivers can enter giveaway’s through links posted each week to TEL’s Facebook and LinkedIn accounts. All CDL drivers and owner-operators in the United States are eligible to enter. TEL is currently accepting entries for the third of four weekly giveaways. This week’s prizes are a $500 hotel gift card and a set of four chrome fuel-saving twist-and-lock aero wheel covers valued at $590. Winners also receive a TEL trucker cap. TEL is a member of the American Trucking Associations, which first launched National Truck Driver Appreciation Week in 1988 to honor the vital role truck drivers play in the American economy and our daily lives. This year’s appreciation week takes place Sept. 15-21. TEL’s September giveaways are meant to bring fun and appreciation to these important professionals all month long.