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SC Truck Driver of the Year Announced

24 November 1998

4 Million Miles & No Chargeable Accidents Earns Honor as SC Truck Driver of the Year

    COLUMBIA, S.C., Nov. 23 -- Driving 4 million miles without a
chargeable accident over a 45 year career has earned professional truck driver
Jerry William Barton recognition as the 1998 South Carolina Truck Driver of
the Year.
    Mr. Barton, a resident of Greenville, has been employed with Bi-Lo, Inc.
for the past 15 years and operates out of their Mauldin location, delivering
and picking up grocery products from and to locations in North Carolina, South
Carolina, and Georgia.
    "Operating a commercial vehicle safely in today's congested highway
environment is no small feat, but to drive without a chargeable accident over
an entire 45 year career is quite an accomplishment," states J. Richards Todd,
SCTA President.  "Mr. Barton deserves all the appreciation and respect we can
give for setting an excellent example of how to safely and successfully share
the road with all highway users."
    The Driver of the Year Award is given by SCTA and the Safety Management
Council in recognition of commercial vehicle drivers who have successfully
managed outstanding careers driving trucks and have provided exemplary
customer and public service.
    The South Carolina Trucking Association is a non-profit trade association
representing over 850 companies engaged in trucking operations in South
Carolina.  The Driver of the Year Award is given annually by SCTA in
recognition of truck drivers who have successfully managed outstanding careers
driving trucks and provided exemplary customer and public service.