Hundreds watch classic cars cruise down Gratiot

Detroit News: Hundreds watch classic cars cruise down Gratiot
Eastpointe — The Annual Cruisin' Gratiot is a family tradition for Hilary Lovejoy. Having grown up in Eastpointe, the Warren resident returns each year with her three children and parents to watch the classic cars roll down Gratiot Avenue.

"Some of the cars have really stood out," she said, recalling a car that looks like a motorcycle with four wheels. "There were a lot of really nice cars this year."

Lovejoy, one of hundreds attending the 13th annual event, said she thinks more cars came out to cruise and participated in car shows this year.

Today's two-mile cruise closes a week of classic car events including car shows, a parade and contests.

Sue Miller of Macomb Township and her husband, Jerry, have attended the cruise from the beginning. They watched cars roll by from lawn chairs in the bed of their F150 pickup truck.

"We just enjoy the whole thing," she said. "We like the old cars. You wait all year to see them come out of storage. It's a little warm, but you expect that. You want a perfect sunny day."

The Millers have their car viewing down to a routine. They have various sized umbrellas to block the sun as well as sun visors, snacks and a cooler for drinks.

George Lusk of St. Clair Shores took some time this afternoon to wax his 1960 Chevy Impala at 9 Mile and Gratiot. It's silver with a candy magenta overlay.

Lusk, a member of a car club, likes to take his car to different events throughout the area.

"I always enjoy the Gratiot cruise," he said. "It's a slower place. It's a great venue. A lot of shade."

A Cruisin' Gratiot car show started this morning at East Detroit High School. Classic car collectors entered vehicles into the show for a chance to win a $1,000 prize. Festivities also include the finals of an American Idol-style contest, the Grand Idol competition.