Chapter 1 : Genesis
Someone was responsible for this Convoy 2000 idea. Although many people participated in the trip, I can pin the original idea on one person: me. I’m not boasting; that’s the truth. T A Chafin did most of the organizing and promotion and Carey Dodson assisted, so you can add them to the list of prepetrators. But the bottom line is that I suggested the event.
As you may have noticed, this web site publishes a usually-weekly newsletter called The Legend-News. Well, back in September 1999, in the edition of the 6th, I wrote what I thought was just a throw-away idea.
I’ve been having brainstorms lately. (Ouch.) Next year is the 25th anniversary of “Convoy”, and a celebration seems warranted. My thought: how about a convoy from L.A. to Jersey, beginning on the night of 6 June 2000? Just imagine a few dozen (hundred) cars loaded with rabid C.W. fans attempting to recreate the momentous events of the song. Maybe we could sell the movie rights.
A passing thought, it was; organizing such an event wasn’t in my list of skills. I did think about the idea after that, wondering if perhaps I would make the journey on my own. And then on the 3rd of February 2000, T A Chafin asked me
I’d like you to look at the very beginnings of an idea. It’s not even a web site yet but as they say, “One downloadable image is valued at millennial verbiage.” I know the name is already in use but I don’t foresee any difficulty here. I’m going to do this even if I can’t get a single other person to join me. However, I think we may be able to get hundreds, if not thousands, to come along for at least part of journey.
Please check this URL:
http://members.aol.com/augustprty/convoy2k.html
and let me know what you think. I have further details already planned out if you would like to hear them.
And sittin’ right there in a pool a’ grease was a map of the U.S.A. with a route marked from Shaky Town to the Jersey Shore, and the words “Convoy 2000” above it all. Someone was taking the idea seriously.
Next: The Announcement