The first annual “Truck Drivers’ Pride” Expo debuts Sunday, June 3, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Vidinha Stadium. The event will feature a truck show, activities, games, prizes, food, entertainment. The public is invited to “come down and
The first annual “Truck Drivers’ Pride” Expo debuts Sunday, June 3, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Vidinha Stadium.
The event will feature a truck show, activities, games, prizes, food, entertainment. The public is invited to “come down and show your support” for Kaua‘i’s truck drivers.
The idea for the expo came from two truck drivers who noticed that there seemed to be events for just about everything but trucks on Kaua‘i, according to Michelle Rapacon, one of the Expo organizers along with husband Winston, mom Donna Caberto and friend Todd.
“People don’t always realize how much the world needs and uses trucks everyday in deliveries, and all sorts of tough jobs,” said Rapacon. “Life without trucks or drivers would be total chaos. Most businesses wouldn’t be able to operate without them.”
The organizers decided the Expo would be a perfect way to recognize commercial truck drivers on Kaua‘i. So far, nearly 60 trucks of all sorts have signed up for the show. For just a $1 admission to cover the cost of insurance, the public will have a chance to admire the different trucks, meet the drivers and give thanks and recognition for their hard work on Kaua‘i’s roads.
There will also be a People’s Choice competition for lots of prizes including gift certificates, truck models and belt buckles. People at the Expo will be able to vote for their favorite trucks in the show. There will be a mini-carnival for the kids so parents can enjoy the show. Some drivers have even agreed to let the keiki try out horns, steering wheels and get a close look at their trucks.
The expo is a nonprofit event, Michelle Rapacon noted. All proceeds will either go into the show or toward helping establish the Expo as an annual event.
All of the commercial truck companies are expected to be represented at the Expo. Also on display will be a fire truck, public works vehicle, some “monster” trucks and even trucks worked on by hobbyists will be on display. Showing their support for the event will be members of the Sons of Kaua‘i, who will attend the Expo after their Sunday motorcycle run. For information, call Michelle or Winston at 652-9346 or Donna or Todd at 639-3047.
