Saginaw, MI-based Champagne & Marx Excavating specializes in running double-dump trailers capable of hauling payloads of 50 tons. But its fleet of doubles and Kenworth T800 tractors have been helping carry out another mission as well — raising funds and awareness in the fight against multiple sclerosis (MS), a disease of the central nervous system. Last year, Champagne & Marx raised enough money to rank it fourth in Michigan in MS fundraising, noted the company.
MS is a very personal cause of the Marx family, co-founders of the company with Frank Champagne, who helped start the business in 1973. Second-generation owner son David Marx serves as president; and daughters Anne Coursey and Christine Davis serve as vice president and safety & collections manager, respectively. But it's Christine's own fight with MS that compels the company to raise awareness and funds to help battle the disease.
Its rolling champion in calling attention to MS is a Kenworth T800 and double trailers outfitted with a graphics package that can't be missed.
“MS is a terrible disease and we've been doing our part to help educate and raise funds to help in the battle against it,” said Davis. “We came up with the special truck idea, along with our Kenworth dealer, Central Michigan Kenworth. We bought a 2012 T800 with the extended day cab about a year ago and had the graphics package added to promote the cause. We've had nothing but wonderful comments about our MS truck, and it has driven awareness and donations.”
