"These leaders have shown the tenacity in tough economic times while possessing values that have earned them respect from their employees as well as the business and civic communities," [image-nocss] wrote reporter Jessica Mitchell.
Senior vice president of JP Morgan Chase Bank, Allison E. Taylor, wrote a letter in support of Tom's nomination: "My experience with Mr. Love can be defined by an individual of unmatched character and integrity, and yet one who exhibits graciousness and humility as well. His ongoing commitment to share these values with his employees is demonstrated by his priority of being on the road visiting every Love's store in an effort to recognize exceptional performance and identify future leaders."
Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits President and CEO, Debby Hampton, also wrote a letter recommending Tom for the honor: "Rarely do I come across a CEO who is so sincere about supporting the local community," she said. "In my contact with Tom Love, I have discovered a person who has extraordinary character, integrity and a genuine concern for his employees and the community."
Love family members attended the event for support and recognition of this honor. "We're all proud of Dad's accomplishments and of this company," said director of communications Jenny Love Meyer. "And while he's honored for the award, particularly given his admiration of the other finalists in his category, he gives credit to the successful group of employees who are on the front lines every day," she said.
Seven other CEOs received top honors in six categories: Aubrey McClendon of Chesapeake Energy and J. Larry Nichols of Devon Energypublic companies with more than $500 million in annual revenue; Harland Stonecipher of PrePaid Legal Services Inc.public companies with less than $500 million in annual revenue; David K. Hill Sr. of Kimray Inc.private companies with fewer than 500 employees; George Stephen Mason of Cardinal Engineering Inc.small businesses with 50 or fewer employees; Tom J. McDaniel of Oklahoma City Universitynonprofits with more than $10 million in annual revenue; and Lou Kerr, The Kerr Foundationnonprofits with less than $10 million in annual revenue.
In other company news, Love's has opened a new location in Greenville, Ill. The store will host a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony at today, February 24, in partnership with the Greenville Chamber of Commerce. The Greenville Love's employs approximately 40 people and includes Subway and Chester's restaurants.
The Greenville Love's sits on more than 20 acres of land and is approximately 10,000 square feet. It includes parking for about 80 trucks. Other amenities include a game room, CAT scales, an ATM machine, lotto sales, showers and merchandise such as apparel and electronics.
As part of its ongoing commitment to the people and communities in which it operates, Love's will donate $1,000 each to the Greenville Police Department and the Bond County Unit 2 Community School district. Love's district manager Steve Robertson and General Manager Stephen Gordon will present checks during the ribbon cutting ceremony to representatives from each organization, Police Chief Lou Lorton and Superintendent Jeff Strieker.
"This location fits well with our commitment to offer a variety of amenities for professional drivers and the motoring public," said Greg Love, president of Love's Development Cos. "We're excited to continue our growth in Illinois, and we're proud to donate to these two organizations, which help protect the community and teach the next generation of leaders in their community."
Meanwhile, the company said on Facebook that its Fancy Gap, Va., location is now open for business. It also includes a Subway restaurant.
Founded in 1964 by Tom Love, Love's Travel Stops & Country Stores is headquartered in Oklahoma City and remains family owned and operated. With more than 220 locations in more than 30 states, Love's current growth rate is approximately 15 stores per year.
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