5th annual Big Truck Experience comes to Olde Towne Sept. 19
By Sherry Lucas
Big trucks always earn big looks, and the Big Truck Experience again promises plenty of chances for up-close perusal of these special vehicles.
The Big Truck Experience, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m Saturday, September 19, on Monroe Street, is where trucks, service vehicles and heavy machinery are the stars of the show. The event coincides with the Cruzin’ Clinton Car Show, also in Olde Towne that day.
More than fifteen participants had already committed by press time, with a few more expected to join in on the day’s fun.
“This is trending to be the best one yet,” said Marsha Barham, co-chair with Linda Vander Molen of the free Main Street Clinton event. “If you ever wanted to check out the horn, sirens and working features of such, here is your chance.”
The appeal is huge for families, particularly those with young kids who will get a kick checking out the machinery.
“This is the fifth year, and the growth of this event has been incredible to watch,” Main Street Clinton Assistant Director Ashley Hammack said. “With two former Main Street board members [Barham and Vander Molen] leading the charge on this event, it has grown to be a hit with families from across the Jackson metro area.
“It’s also fun to hold alongside Cruzin,’ because the kiddos love to go from looking at big trucks and machinery to looking at cool cars that resemble many Hot Wheels they’ve probably seen,” Hammack said.
Vermeer Mid-South Inc. sponsors the event and provides huge on-the-ground support to those in attendance, Barham said, expressing appreciation for both roles.
The National Guard 114th Military Police with two soldiers and the M-ATV is always a crowd favorite.
An agriculture sprayer from Yazoo Ag Solutions is an exciting addition this year, Barham said, promising a few more surprises to experience on event day.
American Medical Response will be on hand with personnel to educate attendees about modern ambulance service and how they can help in times of need, she said, and Clinton police and fire departments will be standing by in case emergency services are needed.
“We appreciate the participation and support from the City of Clinton Police Department, Fire Department and Public Works Department.”
The vehicle participants, who give their time and come in on a day off to tell folks about their jobs and the special vehicles that are part of it, make the Big Truck Experience special.
“They are kind and fun with the kids,” Barham said. “This is a family-friendly, hands-on event that offers the opportunity for children to explore, climb and touch trucks, emergency response vehicles, heavy machinery and other equipment.
“Children get to meet the personnel who protect, serve and build our community. It’s a great learning experience when a child can touch these gigantic trucks,” she said. “Thrilling, too, when they can climb on board and get a photo and chat with the operators.”
