Well, historically, the earliest I can think it traced back to was 1999 when it was held in Springfield, Illinois and was held there for two years. If anyone has an earlier recollection, let me know. My first Spring Zing was the 2000 year and there were 19 Contours present. There were a also a couple of 2.5 RS Subaru Imprezas, so CEG trolls were welcome very early on, and the event was always intended to survive the fact eventually many would no longer have Contours. Unfortunately, I am still a bit infamous for the Dukes of Hazzard maneuver, and the dragon shirt (which still comes out for the banquet).
From there it grew and moved to Michigan for the 2001 year and was in the Kalamazoo area for the 2001 and 2002 years. 2003 saw SZ on hiatus when a Nebraska group intended to hold it and the interest was not there. 2004 saw SZ Detroit (or the Detroit area to be more specific). 2005 and 2006 were held in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Now, for 2007, it is moving again, to Grand Rapids, MI.
One thing that has not changed over the years and for many of us, the car changes, is that the people and the socializing is as much of the event as the cars. It's a great time just to kick back, be yourself, and have an absolute total blast! I'm always eager to get there, and wish I never had to leave.
