The Keystruckers

G.A.T.S. 2010

Dallas Texas 

We arrived in Dallas on Wednesday afternoon. The highway Angels and friends were getting things together in the

Our New Friend "Saddles"

parking lot and vendors were inside setting up their booths. We were anxious to meet some of our Facebook friends that we had not met face to face before and looking forward to seeing some of our special friends too.

"Leap Frog" Larry

Corporal Norm and Lee Strable were getting the stage ready for the three nights of entertainment and making sure that the food was in order for all the hungry truckers expecting to fill the parking lot.

Mornings were fun with a gathering under the tent that had been set up with tables and chairs.  There was free coffee,  yummy cinnamon rolls and other beverages available to everyone to start the day.

Shuttles ran all day to bring us right to the door of the convention center. Inside was an array of vendors wich included products, services, charities and trucking companies recruiting new drivers. There were several educational seminars too. Radio personalities were also there broadcasting live to listeners that were unable to attend.

Many of the people attending were in awe of the beautiful new trucks being displayed and the children were dreaming of the day they too could drive one of these giants!

In the evening, the parking lot was filled with drivers and friends enjoying the great lineup of entertainment. There were many artists that had been featured on Road Dog radio’s, Tim Ridley’s Trucker Talent Spotlight.  It was truly the best time many people had ever had.  The atmosphere was different from in the past and the brotherhood was evident.

The Highway Angels did alot of cooking that weekend with burgers and bratts being consumed in record numbers.

There were even awards presented on the stage. Bobby Boofay received a certificate from Jon Osburn and Centramatics and the teen that the truckers have adopted, Jazzy Jordan was given a special  appreciation award on behalf of all the American truckers for her efforts to raise fund for the St Christopher Fund by running 3161 miles across the country.

We had a great time and met some wonderful people. We exchanged numbers and emails and learned about some informational party line numbers where drivers can talk to several other drivers in a non threatening way that is a source of support.

Thanks to all those we have met and we hope to see you all again soon. keep in touch and we’ll see you next time!Be Safe!Jan & Jim