Big Tex

The Drive kick-off was held last night at the State Fair Grounds of Texas. The state fair officially opens this coming weekend and is home to the 211-foot Texas Star, the tallest Ferris Wheel in North America. Visitors to the state fair are greeted by Big Tex, who has been the fair's official mascot since 1952. Wearing size 70 cowboy boots and a 75-gallon Stetson hat, Big Tex's pants alone require 72 yards of denim. This All-American Fairground was the ideal place to begin The Drive.

Before heading into the kick-off event, I had the opportunity to check out a few of the heritage vehicles touring with the drive. Steve Ady, proud owner of a 1957 Long Box, gave me an in-depth tour of his truck. Steve has had his truck for five years, and has kept his promise to its original owner that he would keep the truck as authentic as possible. While he has added new wheels and tires to the truck, he has not touched the body.

"The smiles that I get from passerbys when they see me with my truck — it's such an amazing feeling," he said.

Steve Ady

Steve and I then made our way to the event, where the new 2007 Chevy Silverado was unveiled to the general public. Eddie Montgomery and Troy Gentry of Montgomery Gentry later came on stage ready to rock and instantly got the crowd on its feet. Nominated for Vocal Duo of the Year for the 2006 CMA Awards, the guys put on a rockin' show, performing hits including Lonely and Gone, She Couldn't Change Me and Speed.

Tonight The Drive stops in both Indianapolis and Nashville for street parties featuring live performers. The concert in Indianapolis will take place at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and features what is sure to be another energetic performance by Montgomery Gentry. At the Riverfront Park in Nashville, the Lost Trailers will perform, followed by Phil Vassar, one of the most talented songwriters in the city. Both events are open to the public and free, although concert goers are invited to bring a non-perishable food item for donation to local food banks.

Give us a wave if you see our trucks passing on the highway. I'll be sure to wave back — until The Drive arrives in Nashville, I will be listening to some tunes and gazing out the window towards the open road.