We are happy to announce that NPE now has two drivers in TCA's Highway Angel Program. On July 31st, 2001 Sonny Hamner and Dan Hodges helped someone out who was in a difficult situation. If you know Sonny Hamner and Dan Hodges, you know that they are both very kind and generous people and probably think their actions that night were not a big deal. The people they helped out were very thankful and appreciative and called into the safety department to let us know what happened. Here is a letter written by the President of the TCA.

Congratulations! Sonny Hamner and Dan Hodges are being recognized as Highway Angels for kindness shown July 31, 2001 on Interstate 5 near Redding, California. Here is a summary of the incident as it was described to us:

"Mr. Hamner and Mr. Hodges came upon a woman and her two children out of gas on a dangerous incline in the middle of the night. Her cell phone was not working and she had tried for two hours to flag down passing motorists, but no one would stop. The lady was very distraught when Mr. Hamner and Mr. Hodges pulled over to help. Mr. Hamner let the woman use his cell phone to call for assistance. The drivers put up flares and waited with the woman until the state police arrived."

The Highway Angel program, introduced by the Truckload Carriers Association and sponsored by Volvo Trucks North America and Petro Stopping Centers, is an on-going effort to help recognize driver professionalism and to elevate the public's awareness and appreciation for outstanding drivers in the trucking industry.

We are proud to honor drivers like Mr. Hamner and Mr. Hodges who are making a positive difference in the lives of the people with whom they share the road. Again, please accept our thanks and congratulations.

Sincerely, Robert A. Hirsch, President

Thanks to all of you who represent NPE in a positive light both on and off the road. You never know, you could be our next Highway Angel.