Hello,
On Friday evening from 5:00pm to 11:30pm, I attended the Beaumont, TX Freightliner Grand Opening event, themed “The Night Belongs to Freightliner.” This celebration was along my route from Laredo, TX. I was asked by the dealership to bring the Cascadia for the attendees. There was well over 2,000 people in attendance. I’m sure they would have even had more but it looked like rain prior to the start time. Luckily, the rain held out and we only ended up with a sprinkle. The ”Grand Opening” event was so popular that they needed everyone to park at the nearby Ford Arena Complex and use the complimentary shuttle service to get to the festivities.
All of the vendors preparing their booths
Chris Duval is General Manager for the Beaumon, TX Freightliner dealership. I had some time prior to the start of the event to take a walk around the new facility. The old building is just across the street and had difficult truck parking accommodations. The new facility offers easy access from interstate 10 with a large, concrete parking lot with plenty of space. This is a full service dealership with a large “parts” showroom and full body shop. The dealership is set and ready to take care of a driver’s repair and maintenance needs. Also, I found the driver lounge to be comfortable with its actual driver truck seats for seating. A large flat screen tv is also accessible to viewing.
The race car was popular with the kids getting their picture taken behind the wheel.
Many drivers brought their families out for the event. The full time drivers enjoyed showing the Cascadia to their spouse and children. My truck was in the middle of the parking lot, nearby The Marshal Tucker Band. People could get a feel how quiet the Cascadia can be when the door is closed. I had many discussions with fleet owners and owner operators regarding the outstanding fuel mileage I’ve been attaining with this truck. (8.6 lifetime fuel mile average.)
There was plenty of food for everyone.
I enjoyed some Texas BBQ, potato salad and bake beans. There was plenty of drinks and refreshments for everyone. This was a very successful Grand Opening for the Beaumont, TX Freightliner Dealership. The dealership and all involved can be quite proud. I’ve always heard they do things “bigger in Texas.” After this event… I would agree.
The Marshall Tucker Band kept the guests entertained.
Till next time… be safe,
Henry