Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/718131
Fed-Ex Custom Critical, Panther, Landstar, Pre- mium Transportation Logistics, among several others — to help them find the best fit for their business and lifestyle goals. Entertainment But the Expo wasn't all business; there were plenty of opportunities to kick back and have fun, as well. For example, on the first night of the Expo, there was Casino Night, sponsored by CIS, where attendees tried their hand at blackjack, roulette, craps and Texas Hold'em — all on the house. This event offered a real casino experience, without the financial risk but with a whole lot of upside. That's because there were over $8,000 in prizes donated by supporters of Expedite Expo given out at Casino Night, with grand prizes including $500 cash, a big screen TV, and a custom painting of famed triple-crown- winning race horse Secretariat. Then there was the annual ExpeditersOnline. com Drivers' BBQ the next day, after the show closed at 4:00 p.m., featuring a whole hog roast. And when they weren't walking the exhibit hall, sitting in educational workshops, or visit- ing the nearby downtown Lexington restau- rants, many attendees enjoyed "tailgating" in the acres of free parking outside the conven- tion center, networking and sharing stories. In a review of Expedite Expo on Facebook, Jason Hutchens writes, "What an amazing experience. A huge wealth of knowledge in one building. We will be yearly attendees from now on." His wife and driving teammate, Heather Hutchens, agrees. "So much info for those looking to get into expediting as well as those who are already in the industry. We had a blast!" Save the Date: July 14-15, 2017 With Expedite Expo 2016 in the books, mark your calendar to attend next year's show set for July 14th and 15th, 2017, at Lexington Center. Says McCord at On Time Media: "Planning has started already on 2017. We have a few pages of recommendations and improvements. Onward and upward!" • 6 www.bigrigowner.com S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 6 DRIVER'S CHOICE WINNER The Drivers' Choice Award, sponsored by Detroit Diesel, recognizes the "best truck" at the Expo as voted on by drivers. This year's winner was a 2017 Freightliner M2 112 with 100-inch Bolt Custom Sleeper, presented by Premier Truck Group of Knoxville and designed in a team effort by the truck's new owner Susan Medlin (with Medlin Expedited & Leasing LLC), Sandra Robinson (with Premier Truck Group of Knoxville), and Bolt Custom Truck.