At the end of the 2002 show season, the Southeastern mini-truckin' community lost someone special. That person, who'd only just been featured in Mini Truckin' with his killer burgundy and graphic-covered S-10 ("Acrophobic S-Dime," MT, June '02), recently lost his life on the job as an electrician.
Rather than sit around and mourn the loss of a friend, the friends and family of Danny Rowe put on a benefit show to celebrate what Danny loved to do best: show his truck. Attendees from many of the states along the East Coast came out with their trucks in the fall to show their support and make donations to the Rowe family. Rides ranging from stock to full-blown customs, not to mention plenty of past feature vehicles from Mini Truckin', could be found on hand. People could be seen wandering around the show all day long, but it was at Danny's truck where most people gathered, held hands, and spoke just a little quieter than anywhere else on the show field.
Unlike most shows, there was no air of intense competition. Everyone checked their attitudes at the door. Those at the show were there for one reason and one reason alone: to honor Danny. Everyone was more interested in hanging out and reflecting on the good times they'd had with Danny and his club, Acrophobia. Clubs such as Acrophobia, Endless Creations, Negative Camber, Xtreme Lows, SubCulture, and many others brought out rides that turn heads anywhere they go. In all, more than 200 vehicles were brought by their owners who wanted to show their respects.
Because the show was held as a benefit to help pay the bills left by Danny's passing, by the end of the day about $6,000 had been raised. That money was used to pay off Danny's S-10, as well as a few other expenses Danny left behind. The success of the show was easily measured by the smiling faces of those in attendance as the show ended and they all left to head home. The friends and family of Danny Rowe want to thank everyone who was involved, as well as those who showed their support by attending the show, including Drop 'Em Wear? for the giveaway shirts and other prizes.
Editor's Note:
Danny Rowe was one of the kindest persons you're likely to meet anywhere - including the mini-truckin' scene. Only three weeks before his passing, we sat on a tailgate and hung out with Danny and the guys from Acrophobia at East Coast Nationals in Virginia. Danny is sorely missed by the staff of Mini Truckin'. We hope his legacy of helpfulness and kindness will be carried on in the hearts of everyone who ever knew him.