"Most people know Me as 'Candyman'," says John Cross. "They wouldn't know me by name." It all started when the Georgia trucker, loading freight in heat and dust, brought candy along for his throat. Sharing it with others, he found that a fistful of sweets spread a lot of goodwill. Soon, he became affectionately known by his gifts.

"I started with Roadway Express, Inc., in 1962. You can tell I love it. I really enjoy my job," he says. "Someone asked what I'd do if I wasn't a trucker. I said I'd be ashamed, I love it so much. My father had straight trucks and semi-trucks. I've always been around trucks, and had a desire to drive. Not only that, I've made a good living.

"I enjoy life," he adds, "especially working with people, and motivating them in the area of safety. I live, eat, and breathe safety. It's our country's most important issue. People take it for granted, until something happens to them." Cross believes saving lives by teaching safety is his mission in life. A member of Roadway's Road Team and recipient of its prestigious "You're #1" Award, he speaks to schools and civic groups about trucking and safety. "If we can educate people, we're on the road to progress. If we can help prevent a fatality, every ounce of energy's worth it.

"I often hear people say they wish there were no trucks on the road," Cross says. "Our team's goal is to help the motoring public see that most drivers are family oriented, out to make a decent living and keep the economy moving." You may see "The Candyman" at work around Atlanta in his Roadway truck. If you get a chance, shake his hand. You'll get a fistful of sweets, and perhaps, a handy tip on highway safety.