TORONTO – – If you’re reading this, hold your head up high. You’ve much to be proud of.

Because if you’re reading this, you’ve probably come through one of the toughest economic downturns in Canadian history and you’re looking to the future.

And it’s people like you who are being recognized during National Trucking Week, which this year is scheduled for Sept. 6 to the 13th.

You’re among the half a million Canadian men and women responsible for moving 90 percent of all the commodities that this economy needs to function and you contribute more than $67 billion to the national economy.

And what, you’re asking, does this mean to you?

For one thing, National Trucking Week is an opportunity for you to fly the flag and sound your air horn — on the road, in the boardroom or in the community. Let the world know trucking makes the economy work.

And if you can’t think of where to begin, the Ontario Trucking Association (OTA), as well as most other provincial trucking associations, has a host of ideas to help you celebrate.

"Each year," says OTA communications director Rebecka Torn, "members of the trucking industry and its suppliers come up with a wide variety of ways to celebrate with their employees."

Visit the OTA website for celebratory suggestions.

Furthermore, the Canadian Trucking Alliance (CTA) is offering members, on a first-come, first-serve basis, industry-pride posters and Marks Work Wearhouse 10-percent discount cards. (Check cantruck.com for details.)

"It is a time for the trucking community in Canada to come together to celebrate a job well done," says OTA President David Bradley, who says despite the current economic downturn, that is still a lot of celebrate.

"These are tough times for the industry; perhaps the toughest ever. But, from this struggle I have no doubt that an even stronger industry will emerge and that the glory years of trucking are yet to come," says Bradley.