Overdrive Magazine | Trucking Business News & Owner Operator Info
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/805422
TA and Petro Announce Citizen Driver Award Honorees A D V E R T I S E M E N T April 1, 2017 WESTLAKE, Ohio A D V E R T I S E M E N T Marty Ellis has a huge heart, and is ready and willing to help anyone in need. His positive attitude and big smile have touched many people, from friends and family, to other drivers, and even complete strangers. He is the guy who gets out of his truck in the rain to help someone, or gives away his last dollar without thinking twice. He's humble about his achievements, and quick to give credit and praise to others. A prime example of his humility occurred in 2013 when he was named Driver of the Month, making him eligible for that year's Driver of the Year award. Having already won this prestigious award in 2006, Marty asked for his name to be removed from the list of contenders so that another driver could have the opportunity to experience the win. Before joining A&A Express, he was a beekeeper. He was stung 100 times! In 2002, he became involved in the South Dakota Convoy and Truck Show benefitting Special Olympics and has helped grow the event every year, bringing enormous benefits to kids with special needs. He is dedicated to the trucking industry and to advocating for truckers through various forums and listening sessions. Idella Hansen was 18 years old when she started driving with her family's business, and now, more than 46 years later, she shows no sign of stopping! She is a true professional in all aspects of her career; her strong work ethic shines and her employers have high praise for her. Her ability and dedication have earned her the respect of her fellow drivers. She has had to overcome many difficulties breaking into such a male-dominated industry, but she's never wavered and is a strong proponent for women drivers, encouraging and mentoring them. She and a fellow female driver were recently featured in an NPR interview, discussing their experiences and futures. She also strongly believes in giving back, actively volunteering with numerous trucking organizations, her community, and at her local church. She won a citizenship award in her hometown of Camden, Arkansas for her work in the community to help with festivals and events, and her many acts of compassion and kindness. Evan "Buddy" Haston is a solid citizen, and truly oneof the Knights of the Highway. He is involved in his community, church, and workplace, and is the plumb line that others are measured against. He started driving part-time over 50 years ago when he was 25, then quickly made it his full time career. He takes the constant changes of the profession in stride, whether it's dealing with difficult customers, congested traffic, or the day-to-day struggles associated with physical and mental health. Through it all, he has established a standard of excellence and integrity, which has not gone unnoticed. Buddy is always positive, with a smile on his face. He is quick to put the needs of others first, lending assistance physically, spiritually, or financially. All of these accomplishments, and many more, have been achieved with God, country, and family as his priorities. Dick Pingel is passionate about the trucking industry and cares deeply about the welfare of the driver community. He's determined to make a difference for both experienced drivers and those just starting out, and works tirelessly with several organizations to accomplish this. He is personable and easy-going and promotes a positive image wherever he goes. Dick wears a D&G logo shirt when he is working – dressing and performing his duties in a professional manner. (He even wears them most of the time he is not working!) He takes pride in his work and treats his customers as friends. So much so that when he takes a vacation, his customers miss him! Dick is a dedicated family man as well, and enjoys spending time with his grandchildren when he's home. He is a 16-year member of the Wisconsin Motor Carriers Association, a non-profit trade association representing the interests of truck and motor coach owners within the state of Wisconsin. Dick was the first owner/operator to join, prompting them to create an owner/operator member category. To say Jim Wilcox has dedicated himself to the trucking industry is an understatement. And with 35 years on the road and countless awards and accolades, it's obvious that the industry is better because of him. His recognition includes: Induction into the YRC Freight National Driver Hall of Fame in 2013. He was one of 12 drivers to be inducted at that point in the 90 year history of Yellow Roadway Corporation. The 2005 Yellow Transportation Professional Excellence Award. Jim was the first driver to receive this annual award established to recognize one exceptional driver in Yellow's North American operations. The 1988 Colorado State Truck Driving Championships Professional Excellence Award – this is given to the contestant that best exemplifies Colorado's professional truck driver as evidenced by his driving record, skill, attitude and personality.