PREECEVILLE — Dale Strelezki of the Endeavour district was once again privileged and honoured to receive the Driver of the Year for safety from Weyerhaeuser. He was presented with the award on Aug. 22 by Mayor Darin Newton. Stacey Strykowski, Strelezki’s daughter, and Tashe Goodsman, Preeceville recreation director, were also in attendance.
In recognition of his award, Weyerhaeuser donated $5,150 to a charity of Strelezki’s choice. He selected the Preeceville Community Hall, with the funds allotted toward bathroom renovations.
Past charitable organizations he has chosen include the Health Focus Group and the Ukrainian Dance Club.
“I am a firm believer in giving back and doing my part in keeping organizations strong in tradition, for future generations, and keeping our small communities alive,” he said.
“I got started in trucking by hauling for my uncle, and through the years have driven for other companies, even owning my own truck,” he said.
He has since sold his trucks and continues to drive for Paligan Trucking.
Strelezki has won the award nine times, though not consecutively, and has been driving truck for 46 years.
The award criteria were based on the percentage of overweight load violations, speeding infractions, daily hours of service, safe load audits, truck inspection results, and compliance.
Todd Dyky and Martin Rosenkerr also received driver awards, with donations made to charities of their choice.
