In the Mercer Transportation category, James Johnson took the prize with his black cherry ‘69 359 Peterbilt, named "Ell Wood." The truck is named after the previous owner. After the truck's namesake passed away, "Ell Wood" sat in a garage for 7 years before Johnson purchased it in 2005. When the truck finally reunited with the asphalt, Johnson was overwhelmed with CB greetings from people who had recognized the truck from ole' Ell Wood's driving days. Johnson's rig features an authentic 1970's custom sleeper with an original interior, 400 BG3 engine, 355 rears and 300" wheelbase. Johnson gives credit to friend and skilled craftsman, R.B. Walker, who is responsible for how the truck looks today. Walker stretched, lowered and gave "Ell Wood" a new bumper. When asked if there are future plans for modifications, Johnson says, "I like it as it is … it's a working truck and I'm going to focus on keeping it in good shape." Johnson's love of trucks started before he was old enough to drive. "I really love old trucks … when I was a kid, I grew up idolizing the guys who drove the big rigs. To me, having an old Pete is like the American Dream." Since Johnson joined Mercer last February, he's been staying busy hauling freight across the country, sometimes out for a month at a time. "This is a definitely a working truck," he quips, "Ell Wood is not cut any slack whatsoever!" February, he's been staying busy hauling freight across the country, sometimes out for a month at a time. "This is a definitely a working truck," he quips, "Ell Wood is not cut any slack whatsoever!"

From the "Best of the Rest" category, Rod Jaeger's '07 379 Peterbilt Legacy puts a new spin on a classic style. Although still a work in progress, the maroon and white Pete showcases a 12-gauge custom visor, 7" pipes and a custom dashboard that's coordinated to match the exterior. The truck also has custom seats, fenders and body panels. Most notable, however, is the trucks' striking white Apache stripe graphics, reminiscent of the Kenworth that starred in the 1970's TV show, Movin' On, from Jaeger's childhood. During this summer's Walcott Truckers Jamboree, Jaeger won 2nd place in his class and 2nd place for custom graphics. Jaeger, who hauls for his father's business, Eldon Jaeger Trucking, admits, "I could not have won without the help and support of my Dad and wife." This September, he looks forward to showing his truck at the Big Iron Classic in Kasson, MN.