When the towing and trucking industries seem locked in an endless cycle of misunderstanding and tension, one Kentucky couple has found a remarkable way to change the conversation – by taking their 50-ton rotator to major truck shows across America.

Clifton and Joyce Parsley of Crossroads Towing are on a mission to transform how the trucking community views the towing industry. What began as simply displaying their wrecker with an American flag at the Atlanta Motor Speedway has evolved into a nationwide campaign of goodwill that's winning trophies, changing perceptions, and building bridges between industries that desperately need better relationships.

"We didn't know what kind of response we would get from taking a rotator wrecker to a trucking show, but it has really been positive," explains Clifton. With their impressive 6x10 American flag illuminated at night by boom lights, they've created a display that draws crowds, sparks conversations, and gives them the opportunity to educate truckers about the realities of the towing business beyond what they see on reality TV.

Their story gained even greater depth when Joyce, a registered nurse, was thrust into running the entire business during Clifton's two-month hospitalization with COVID-19. "I knew he was coming home, so I was going to keep his dream alive," she shares. This experience gave her invaluable insights into operations, regulations, and the day-to-day challenges of running a towing company.

From participating in Christmas parades with the Grinch on their hook to connecting with veterans who appreciate their patriotic display, the Parsleys demonstrate how community engagement can transform industry relationships. Their advice to fellow towers? Get involved locally, attend both towing and trucking shows, and pursue ongoing education through industry certifications.

Join us at the International Towing Museum in Chattanooga on October 9th for a live podcast recording where you can meet industry leaders working to strengthen connections between these essential transportation services. Together, we can change perceptions one conversation at a time.