The next time you want to ride with the best, call Atlanta Checker Cab and you might be paired with the “Best Taxi Driver in America.”
Anthony Sims, 58, will find himself in the national spotlight later this month, when the world’s oldest and largest transportation trade association names him the Taxicab Driver of the Year in a ballroom in Las Vegas. The honor is part of a prestigious, national awards program established by the Taxicab, Limousine & Paratransit Association (TLPA) to recognize the industry’s top professionals.
A taxicab driver who has been transporting passengers safely around Atlanta for more than 30 years for Checker Cab, Sims said he is honored by the award and chalks up his success to being well-suited for a job that allows him to connect with people.
“I know it’s cliché, but actually, it’s the real truth that you get to meet a lot of different people from different backgrounds,” Sims said. “I try to do with the first customer the same thing I do with the last customer. Even when it’s not the best day, be a better person and try to work through it.”
Rick Hewatt, president of Checker Cab, said Sims always brings a positive presence both as a driver and throughout the company as a whole.
“Anthony has always been gung-ho about the things we’ve done. He’s one of those guys that catches on quick,” Hewatt said. “We’re very proud of Anthony. He’s the kind of driver you wish you had 200 more people like him. He knows where he’s going, he knows what he’s doing. … He puts forth such a great image.”
Sims will accept his award in front of hundreds of industry leaders at the TLPA’s 100th Annual Convention & Trade Show on Oct. 29 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. Quite an honor and it’s great to have Anthony in Atlanta.
