Don’t get excited that I’m writing this article too because I am only substituting for this issue. The regular writer of this column is Michelle Sukow who was just gifted with two beautiful grand babies. What a sweet reason for her to miss writing this issue. So, I’m filling in this month.
My favorite woman in this industry is without a doubt, Gay Rochester who is President and CEO of INA Towing Network. I have my reasons, but I decided to ask several ladies how they feel about Gay. Happy to help with my request, Cynthia Martineau responded with how she feels about Gay. You’ll remember that Cynthia Martineau is the Executive Director of TRAA, a group in which Gay is very much involved. Here’s what she said. “INA Towing Network (INA) and Gay Rochester are committed to supporting the mission of the Towing and Recovery Association of America, Inc. (TRAA). INA Towing Network is a dedicated sponsor of our annual TRAA Legislative Action Workshop & Hill Day in DC, TRAA’s legislative advocacy and our lobbying efforts. Gay and INA are passionate about promoting roadway safety for all traffic incident management responders.
TRAA recently partnered with Randy Meyer Race Team to promote a National Slow Down Move Over Campaign. TRAA is pleased to have INA as a sponsor of the Randy Meyer Race Team and this important campaign. Together we can increase slow down move over awareness to the motoring public and legislators on a grander scale. We are all excited to be a part of this national campaign.
Gay also serves on the TRAA Cabinet as well as the WTRAA Board. Her dedication to all things towing is admirable and inspiring. TRAA appreciates Gay and INA’s support of our association and the towing community.”
After I spoke to Cynthia Martineau, I also reached out to Linda Unruh. All of you know Linda and about her son, Bobby being killed in 2017 by a tractor-trailer while trying to guide all vehicles over. The Slow Down, MOVE Over Law is different today in New Mexico because of the strength of this wonderful woman. So, I asked Linda about our friend, Gay Rochester, and here’s what Linda had to say about Gay.
Gay Rochester is a trailblazing leader in the towing industry, recognized as a giant for her unwavering commitment to supporting the “Slow Down, Move Over” initiative across all 50 states. This initiative aims to protect roadside workers by encouraging drivers to slow down and change lanes when approaching emergency or roadside assistance vehicles. Gay has been instrumental in promoting this cause, offering her support to those who have suffered loss and pain in the industry. Her leadership is defined by her selflessness, always putting the welfare of her fellow industry workers first, and tirelessly advocating for their safety. Through her efforts, the importance of protecting roadside workers has gained national recognition.
Gay is known not only for her leadership but also for her deep belief in the value of the women of the industry and its people. She is an unwavering supporter of Bobby’s Law, which reinforces the “Over One Lose None” “Slow Down, Move Over” laws, particularly Gay’s passion for the industry and the people in it is evident in her continued dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of roadside workers. She embodies the spirit of the industry, always leading by example and being the first to stand up for the people who keep the roads safe. Her influence and impact continue to shape the future of towing and roadside assistance, making her a true giant in the field.
As I finish this article about my dear friend Gay, across the television listening areas we’re hearing about the damage created by Hurricane Helene. We’re sad to say it has caused so many deaths in our country. Gay Rochester is very active with the Red Cross. The recent, damaging Hurricane Helene has hurt lots of families. I know that Gay would want me to add additional information because besides doing all their towing, she is always raising money for the Red Cross. If you would like to help in anyway, go to Red Cross.org, see how and where they need help or donate whatever you can to help. Any amount, big or small helps to aid families affected by Hurricane Helene. On behalf of Linda, Gay and me, thank you!
See you on the next podcast.
