Paul Brownlee of Calhoun, La., was the grand champion in KLLM's annual safe driving competition recently at the Mississippi State Fairgrounds in Jackson, Miss.

Competing drivers from around the nation represented KLLM and its dry van division, Vernon Sawyer Inc. Winners of the internal event will compete in The Mississippi Trucking Association's State Truck Driving Championships May 3 and 4 in Biloxi, Miss.
This is the fourth year the combined team of KLLM and VSI has competitively selected its representatives to the state-level competition, which is the prelude to the nationals.
"These competitions encourage safe driving by providing our drivers the opportunity to display their skills," said Nancy Sawyer, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President of KLLM, Inc. "The drivers are required to take written tests, participate in an interview process, and of course, to drive the truck with great skill and finesse."
Trophies were given for the top four places in the Vernon Sawyer Division, the top 6 places in the KLLM Division, and for the overall grand champion. The following drivers will advance to the state-level competition:
From Vernon Sawyer: Terry Sanders of Olla, La. (4th place); Rick Sims of West Monroe, La. (3rd place); Bill Fambro of Scottsville, Texas (2nd place); and Paul Brownlee of Calhoun, La. (1st place/grand champion).
From KLLM: Maxie Coodie of Woodsboro, Texas (6th place); Dolyal Bickham of Jackson, Miss. (5th place); Richard Beauchamp of San Bernardino, Calif. (4th place); J.W. Smith of Lindale, Texas (3rd place); Todd Maestretti of Braxton, Miss. (2nd place); and Eddie Hemphill of Weir, Miss. (1st place).