For More Information Contact: Customer Service Phone: 800-765-7242		PRESS RELEASE May 31, 2009
Five Employees Receive Saia Chairman's Award
Saia, Inc. (NASDAQ: SAIA) recently named five employees recipients of its 2008-2009 Chairman's Award. The Chairman's Award continues a tradition of recognizing employee excellence at the company and is Saia's highest honor. The award is part of a series of programs designed to recognize the contributions of employees at all levels of the company. Phillip Alee of Bedford, Texas; Celso "Tony" De Leon of Dublin, Calif.; James Fowler of Tigard, Ore.; Ronnie Moore of St. Augustine, Fla.; and Tony Smith of Tucker, Ga. were recognized as this year's honorees during the companys second quarter employee meetings held in May. Originated in 1997, the Chairman's Award seeks to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of employees who exude excellence, a deep commitment to customer service and the company, as well as a dedication to their colleagues and communities. Criteria for being nominated for the award reflects, in part, the company's mission statement and its values of customer service, safety, integrity, teamwork, and regard for people and communities. "Our Chairman's Award winners this year are all very deserving and should be proud of their success,"said Rick O'ell, Saia president and CEO. "I would like to congratulate each employee and thank them for their hard work as they exemplify the very best of Saia." Every year, each nominee has to earn the Chairman's Award recognition through a specific deed, or series of deeds. Some employees are nominated and chosen because of a series of actions that demonstrate their work ethic and commitment to the company and its customers while others are chosen because of a singular life-saving heroic act. About Saia, Inc. Saia, Inc. (NASDAQ: SAIA) is a less-than-truckload provider of regional, interregional and guaranteed services covering 34 states. Saia is home to the industry-leading Xtreme Guarantee product, which guarantees total customer satisfaction from pick-up through invoicing. Saia offers complete North American coverage through partner agreements. With headquarters in Johns Creek, Ga., and a network of 148 terminals, the carrier employs 7,400 people. For more information on Saia, visit the Saia Web site at www.saia.com.