Letters: ‘Good Stuff’ Awards

This Letter to the Editor appears in the Oct. 22 print edition of Transport Topics. Click here to subscribe today.

Thank you for continuing the legacy of my late uncle, Mike Russell. I always get goose bumps when I see his name mentioned, even six years after his untimely passing.

Uncle Mike is the reason I got involved in the trucking industry back in 2005, and every day, I do my best to honor his memory and hard work.

I know he was a strong advocate and supporter of truck drivers, and I work really hard to make sure “average people” understand the crucial role trucks play in our economy and our lives.

I truly enjoy working in this industry and thank Uncle Mike for helping me get my foot in the door. With the establishment of the “Good Stuff” awards, I hope the trucking industry can continue to educate the public about trucking safety and importance, as well as the daily struggles many drivers face just trying to do their job.

This I think is Uncle Mike’s greatest wish . . . that truck drivers are simply respected, appreciated and acknowledged for the vital role they play in the lives of each and every one of us.

Amanda Russell

Orientation Instructor

NAPA Transportation

Mechanicsburg, Pa.

Editor’s Note: Now in their sixth year, American Trucking Associations’ annual Mike Russell “Good Stuff” Trucking Image Awards are given to persons and/or organizations that generate positive awareness of the trucking industry in a creative way. The winners are announced during ATA’s annual Management Conference & Exhibition. The awards are named in honor of the late Mike Russell — a trucking industry supporter and ATA vice president of public affairs who died suddenly — and are sponsored by TMW Systems. “Good stuff. Trucks Bring It” is an industrywide campaign aimed at improving trucking’s image by emphasizing the relevance of trucking to all aspects of American society.