Songs That Keep Us Moving

Kristy Stout Good shared her love for “Little Saint Nick” by The Beach Boys—a cheerful classic that’s perfect for sunny winter drives. Ed Harris added some rock ‘n’ roll to the mix with Bruce Springsteen’s version of “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” a holiday anthem that’s stood the test of time.

Humor on the Highway

Truckers are known for their sense of humor, and that showed in the picks from Kyle Yadon, who mentioned “Merry Blah Blah Blah” by Lordi and “The Night Santa Went Crazy” by Weird Al Yankovic. Daniel Cartwright and Diane Botts couldn’t resist the laughs brought on by “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer.”

Songs That Inspire

Linda Deptuch DeRosa’s pick, “Thankful” by Josh Groban, offered a moment of reflection and gratitude during the season. Michael Anderson’s love for “Little Drummer Boy,” which he often whistles while driving, captures the quiet beauty of the holidays.

Rockin’ Holiday Vibes

For those who like a little edge in their playlists, George Clemens highlighted Stryper’s version of “Winter Wonderland,” while Joe Zemlicka mentioned AC/DC’s “Mistress for Christmas.” These picks prove that holiday music can have a little attitude too.

Nostalgic Favorites

Classics were a popular choice among drivers. Steven Clark’s favorite, “Silent Night,” and Cheryl Kleinsak Stewart’s tie between “Silent Night” and “The Little Drummer Boy” are timeless staples. Jennifer Roger’s love for Burl Ives’ “Holly Jolly Christmas” and Greg Edwards’ pick of “The Christmas Song” by Nat King Cole bring that warm, nostalgic feeling.

Unexpected Gems

Our trucking community didn’t hold back on surprising us with their unique picks. Gábor Hirsch’s choice of “Black Sabbath’s Paranoid” and Raymond Desilets’ nod to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” added some unexpected twists. El Pelon’s shoutout to “La Puerta Negra” by Los Tigres del Norte brought a cultural flair to the mix.

What’s On Your Playlist?

The songs shared by our community reflect the diversity and spirit of truck drivers everywhere. Whether it’s rocking out, sharing a laugh, or enjoying the classics, music brings us together on the road and beyond.

Join our community on Facebook here to connect with fellow drivers, share your playlists, and stay inspired.

The post Favorite Holiday Songs Shared by Truck Drivers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree has successfully completed its remarkable 4,000-mile trek, traveling from the Tongass National Forest in Alaska to its home for the season—the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. This cherished tradition represents community, cooperation, and the vital role of the trucking industry in connecting America.

An Alaskan Beginning and the Journey’s Foundation

For the 11th year in a row, Kenworth Trucks played a pivotal role in this historic event, providing a Kenworth T680 to carefully transport the tree. This particular truck dazzled with a custom wrap inspired by the Tongass and Chugach National Forests, showcasing their awe-inspiring natural beauty. The Tongass National Forest, as the largest in the nation, provided a Christmas tree worthy of becoming the heart of holiday celebrations in the capital.

The Alaska-based transportation firm Lynden carried the responsibility of this special delivery. Relying on their seasoned and trusted drivers, Fred Austin and John Schank, both veterans with over 40 years of experience and an astonishing collective record of 10 million accident-free miles, Lynden ensured the tree’s safe passage. Notably, Schank previously managed this honor in 2015 and brought his expertise back for this year’s team alongside Austin.

Spreading Holiday Cheer Across 11 States

The tree’s epic path across 11 states brought holiday joy to countless communities, stopping at 13 locations to greet the public with a festive spirit. These stops weren’t just about admiring the tree; they included local celebrations that brought people together to honor this decades-old tradition, first established in 1970. Helping to make the experience even more interactive this year, an online tracking feature allowed Americans nationwide to follow the tree’s cross-country travels in real time.

The Grand Finale in Washington, D.C.

After weeks on the road and an outpouring of holiday goodwill, the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree has reached its destination.

From its roots in Alaska to its glowing place of honor in Washington, D.C., this year’s U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree symbolizes more than just holiday celebrations—it encapsulates a shared national spirit of connection, dedication, and tradition.

Source: Truckers Report

The post U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Completes 4,000-Mile Journey from Alaska to D.C. appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Spreading Holiday Cheer to Military Families

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) took an active role in the event, with Director Tim Boring and Chief of Staff Kathy Angerer heading the efforts. They were joined by key representatives from the Michigan Christmas Tree Association and the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

The ‘Trees for Troops’ initiative, powered by the Christmas SPIRIT Foundation in collaboration with FedEx, has been delivering free, farm-fresh Christmas trees to U.S. service members and their families for an impressive 20 years. Thanks to generous donations, sponsorships, grants, and a network of dedicated volunteers, thousands of trees are distributed every holiday season. For 2024, 93 military bases across the country—15 of them new to the program—are set to receive these festive gifts.

“It’s wonderful to be here at Wahmhoff Farms today to help support the Trees for Troops program and to give back to the hard-working men and women in military service, who protect us every day,” said Tim Boring. “The Trees for Troops program creates the perfect opportunity to give the gift of local agriculture – fresh, Michigan-grown Christmas trees – given with the utmost respect for our military members. Wahmhoff Farms and other Michigan Christmas tree farmers, along with community donors and volunteers, have come together to fill a semi-truck with holiday cheer. This is what the holiday season is all about.”

Colonel James Rossi of the Michigan National Guard shared similar sentiments, noting, “The Michigan National Guard is thrilled to work alongside dedicated community members to assist with this year’s Trees for Troops event. This event is a fantastic representation of the level of support Michigan communities strive to provide military service members and their families. It is incredible knowing the amount of effort the Trees for Troops volunteers put in to make sure military members are able to celebrate the holidays around these beautiful Michigan-grown trees.”

Celebrating the Legacy of Wahmhoff Farms Nursery

Wahmhoff Farms Nursery, a family-owned staple of Southwest Michigan, has proudly operated for over seven decades. Known for its exceptional Christmas trees, the farm also offers wreaths, garlands, U-cut options, and other festive products that capture the holiday spirit and serve the community.

Michigan’s Vital Role in the Christmas Tree Industry

Michigan holds a prestigious position in the U.S. as the third-largest producer of Christmas trees. With over 500 tree farms spread across the state, Michigan supplies roughly 2 million fresh Christmas trees annually. The industry’s total farm gate value exceeds $40 million, solidifying its importance to Michigan’s agricultural economy.

This year, Governor Gretchen Whitmer officially proclaimed December as Michigan Christmas Tree Month. This designation celebrates the tradition of family Christmas trees and encourages residents to support local farms by purchasing fresh, Michigan-grown trees.

Source: The Trucker

Image: MDARD

The post Wahmhoff Farms Nursery Hosts ‘Trees for Troops’ Event in Michigan appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Toy Drives on the Highway:

One of the ways truck drivers make a difference is by participating in or organizing toy drives. These initiatives collect gifts for children in need, ensuring that the magic of the holidays reaches every corner of the community. The sight of a convoy of trucks delivering toys is not only heartening but also showcases the generosity of the trucking community.

Spreading Cheer at Truck Stops:

Truck stops become temporary homes for many drivers during the holidays. Some drivers take it upon themselves to volunteer at truck stops’ holiday events or meals, fostering a sense of community on the road. Whether it’s organizing festive gatherings or providing a helping hand, these efforts make the holiday season a little brighter for truckers away from home.

Adopt-A-Family Programs on the Move:

Adopt-a-family programs are not limited to stationary homes. Truck drivers contribute to these programs by providing gifts, groceries, and essentials to families in need, regardless of their location. The mobility of the trucking lifestyle doesn’t have to hinder the spirit of giving back.

Random Acts of Kindness Rolling Down the Highway:

Truckers perform random acts of kindness during their travels, proving that even small gestures can have a significant impact. Whether it’s buying a meal for a fellow trucker, helping someone in need, or spreading positivity at rest stops, these acts exemplify the true meaning of the season.

Community Fundraising Campaigns:

Initiating or participating in fundraising campaigns is another way truckers give back. By supporting specific causes or individuals facing hardships during the holidays, truck drivers amplify their impact and contribute to the greater good.

As we celebrate the holidays, let’s take a moment to appreciate the truck drivers on the road who go above and beyond to make a positive difference. Through toy drives, acts of kindness, and community initiatives, these individuals exemplify the spirit of giving, proving that, no matter where they are, the holidays are a time for generosity and goodwill.

The post Driving the Spirit of Giving: How Truck Drivers Make the Holidays Brighter on the Road appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.