The Tribal Convenience Store Association (TCSA) announced that Linda Whitener, Assistant Store Manager at Soboba’s Roadrunner Express, was named a 2025 Ron Myers Employee of the Year, one of only three employees recognized with this prestigious award.
“I was very honored and very surprised to receive this award,” Whitener said.
This annual award, presented at the TCSA Fall Membership Meeting, honors the legacy of the late Ron Myers, a TCSA founding member and tireless advocate for Tribal sovereignty and economic development. The award celebrates individuals who demonstrate excellence in customer service, leadership, performance, and community impact within Tribal convenience store operations.
Whitener’s story exemplifies everything this award represents. A proud member of the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians, she joined Soboba Roadrunner Express at its launch in February 2023 and quickly became its cornerstone. Starting as a supervisor, she now serves as the store’s system manager, known lovingly as the store’s “mom” for her compassionate leadership and team-first mindset.
She has been instrumental in offering promotions that appeal to regular customers as well as those designed to bring in new customers. On Sept. 26, Native Indian Day, gas prices and Native Food will be discounted. There will also be a sale on Native Rincon beer. Native American displays and activities will be available throughout the day.
In her time at Roadrunner Express, Whitener has not only improved operations but redefined what a Tribal c-store can be. She implemented innovative cash handling and inventory systems, crafted a food menu rooted in Soboba culture, and mentored young Tribal employees through their first work experiences—instilling pride, discipline, and a sense of purpose. There are 32 employees at the 24/7 c-store and gas station.
“Linda isn’t just managing a store—she’s preserving our heritage and building a future for our people,” said the Board of Soboba Economic Development Corporation. “She embodies everything Ron Myers stood for: community, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to Tribal success.”
The award was presented at the TCSA Annual Meeting on Sept. 17 at the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma, Washington, where she received a custom plaque and a $500 cash award.
“I enjoyed attending the TCSA Trade Show and meeting with many of the vendors there,” Whitener said. “We are involved in trade shows like Core-Mart, Shamrock and TCSA so we can stay on top of things and ensure our customers are getting the best products. We are also planning to bring in more Native products throughout the store based on suggestions and requests we receive.”
This year, TCSA received a record 20 nominations from across Indian Country, reflecting the incredible talent and dedication of Tribal c-store employees nationwide.
Roadrunner Express is located at 2214 Lake Park Dr. in San Jacinto. For more information, please visit https://sobobaroadrunnerexpress.com or call 951-487-7745.
Photos courtesy of the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians
