20 10-4 Magazine / September 2025 Nostalgia is considered a positive word in the English language. The full definition of nostalgia is a sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past, typically for a period of time or place with happy personal associations. In my six years working with 10-4 Magazine, I’ve attended three of the ATHS national conventions in Virginia, Illinois, and Wisconsin. The most recent convention in Madison, WI, held the week of June 3-7, 2025, was the best one I’ve attended so far. But curiously, of the three I’ve attended, this one evoked the strongest feeling of nostalgia for me. With a total of 870 trucks at the event, it was also the biggest ATHS convention I’ve attended. This truck show is different from all other truck shows I go to. It has a laid-back feeling to it that is a combination truck show and cruise. There are no scheduled events on the field after 6:00 PM each day like a light show, parade, jake brake or stereo competitions, or concerts. Emphasis is on the support of the ATHS organization, fellowship with old friends, making new friends, and admiring all the beautiful antique and classic trucks. This year’s National Convention and Truck Show was a five-day affair at the Alliant Energy Center, which is a spacious facility with expansive grounds that can accommodate a large event like this one. Trucks were parked inside the Exhibitors Hall, the west parking lot, with overflow parking in the lot north of the Hall. The purpose of this yearly convention is to celebrate the legacy, diversity, and community that celebrates the world of antique and classic trucks. The show consisted of many planned events including a Kick-Off party, many informational and educational sessions, an Ice Cream Social, a Rivers & Rails Tour, Cheese and Vines Tours, ATHS Awards Dinner and Banquet, and an ATHS Member Luncheon. Truck Show Report: By Eric Hill Attending this event is a step back in time to my youth and my early involvement in the trucking industry during the 60s, 70s, and 80s – when trucks were uniquely designed and built to become the classics they are today. It was a time when driving a truck took natural ability, brute strength, and real determination, and every day brought a new challenge, without the creature comforts we expect and enjoy today. It was not only the trucks of that time, but the sights and sounds, as well. Traveling down two-lane roads to a distant destination, listening to classic rock or country music, talking with other NOSTALGIA IN MADISON
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjA1MjUy