The name itself triggers it, doesn’t it? “Gary, Indiana.” Suddenly, you’re humming or even singing, “Gary, Indiana, Gary, Indiana, Gary, Indiana,” over and over. This infectious tune is, of course, from the beloved 1957 Broadway musical, “The Music Man,” penned by Meredith Willson. In the play, the charismatic con artist Professor Harold Hill boasts about his supposed musical pedigree, claiming to be a proud graduate of the fictional “Gary Conservatory of Music, Class of ’05.”
But Gary, Indiana, is more than just a catchy lyric in a famous song. And while Jon Osburn, the captain of OOIDA’s Spirit of the American Trucker trailer, isn’t a con man like Professor Hill, he is heading to Gary. From July 18-20, the Spirit will be stationed at the Gary Petro, located conveniently at Exit 9 off I-90/I-84. This stop offers professional drivers a chance to connect, discuss industry issues, and maybe even ponder the musical legacy of this Indiana city.
The Catchy Tune: Unpacking the “Gary, Indiana” Song
The “Gary, Indiana” song is a memorable highlight of “The Music Man.” It’s performed by young Winthrop Paroo, who dreams of a magical place – Gary, Indiana – a stark contrast to the small-town Iowa setting of the musical. The repetition of the city’s name, coupled with the upbeat melody, makes it instantly recognizable and enduringly popular.
Robert Preston’s portrayal of Professor Harold Hill in the original cast recording further cemented the song’s fame. His energetic delivery and the humorous context – the fictitious Gary Conservatory predating the city’s founding – added layers of charm to the musical number. The song cleverly uses Gary’s name for comedic effect and as a symbol of a desirable, perhaps even mythical, location.
Gary, Indiana: More Than Just a Song Lyric
While the song provides a fictional musical connection, Gary, Indiana, boasts a genuine musical heritage. Most famously, it’s the hometown of the Jackson Five. This iconic group, featuring Michael Jackson and his brothers, launched their legendary career after winning a talent show at Theodore Roosevelt High School in Gary in 1965. This marked the beginning of their journey to global stardom, forever linking Gary with musical excellence.
Fans can still visit the Jackson family home at 2300 Jackson St., Gary, IN 46407-3050. Although described by some as unassuming, this small white house stands as a testament to the humble beginnings of a musical dynasty. A tribute plaque marks the location, making it a point of pilgrimage for music lovers and Jackson Five enthusiasts.
Trucking Through Music City: The Spirit’s Gary Stop
The Spirit of the American Trucker’s stop at Gary Petro is more than just a location on a map; it’s a visit to a city with a unique cultural resonance, thanks in part to the enduring “Gary, Indiana” song. For professional drivers passing through, Gary Petro offers practical amenities, including 405 truck parking spaces, Iron Skillet, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell restaurants, Wi-Fi, a game room, and even a pet area and fitness room.
The Gary Petro, more than just a convenient stop, becomes a place where the trucking community can converge in a city that resonates with a familiar tune, a tune that might just bring a smile to their faces on a long haul. The stop provides a chance to relax, connect with fellow drivers, and engage with Jon Osburn about the issues impacting their profession.
More Than Just Music at Gary Petro: Connecting with OOIDA
Beyond the musical associations, the Spirit’s visit to Gary Petro is primarily about connecting with professional drivers. Jon Osburn is keen to discuss the crucial topics affecting the trucking industry, including ongoing legislative and regulatory developments in Washington, D.C.
One significant issue on the radar is the pilot program exploring the possibility of allowing under-21 drivers to operate commercial vehicles in interstate commerce. OOIDA has voiced strong opposition to this initiative, citing safety concerns and potential wage depression. Drivers are encouraged to voice their opinions on this and other issues. For those wanting to make their voices heard, a laptop will be available at the Spirit trailer to submit comments to Regulations.gov using Docket ID FMCSA-2018-0346.
On the Road Again: Next Stop, Shell SuperRigs
After Gary, the Spirit of the American Trucker will continue its journey to the 37th annual Shell SuperRigs event in Albert Lea, Minn., from July 25-28. This underscores the continuous effort to connect with drivers across the country, providing support, information, and a platform for their voices to be heard.
So, if you find yourself near Gary, Indiana, between July 18-20, stop by the Gary Petro and say hello to Jon and the Spirit. Discuss the issues, renew your OOIDA membership at a discounted rate, and maybe even hum a few bars of that unforgettable “Gary, Indiana” song. It’s a chance to connect with the trucking community in a city that, for many, is forever linked to a catchy tune and a rich musical legacy.
