Sept. 12--Fourteen years ago, Herb Wyeth gathered friends to propose a fun, non-profit event to benefit the community. Since then, Morris Cruise Nights has developed into one of the largest celebrations of car collectors in Illinois.
"Everyone can remember the car they had when they were younger, or the car their dad had," Wyeth said.
Muscle cars and collector cars, as well as newer sports cars line up on Main Street in downtown Morris, which is located 60 miles southwest of Chicago in Grundy County. No Wyeth has counted over 100 cities from eight states represented at the events over the years.
In preparation for the summer, Wyeth has a database of 4,600 people to which he sends a postcard with a photo to reflect the harsh winter season and remind car lovers of the brief driving season. This year, the photo featured a massive pile of snow blocking the entrance to the cruise night.
Vendors must go through Wyeth in order to advertise or sell products at the event. He has denied big-name companies like Budweiser to lend more space for downtown businesses to benefit.
"The day we're running the show for someone else, I'm out," Wyeth said.
There are no rain dates to avoid inconveniencing volunteers and community attendees.
For all fourteen years, Morris Cruise Nights have been held on Saturdays on the second week of the month. They extended from the summer into October to connect with a Lion Club event, maximizing attendance and bringing even more business to downtown Morris.
No alcohol is allowed and the proceeds from the $10 entry fee for registered vehicles are split between the winning car and charitable organizations. Some to Wyeth's Alma Mater, Grundy Area Vocational Center, to benefit students who desire to build a career working with their hands. Some is donated to the Golden Wrench Scholarship, which Morris Cruise Night provides to students interested in automotive technology. All beneficiaries require an extensive approval process, where Wyeth and his team sort through applications, perform interviews and vote on possible charities.
Septemeber's charity is R.E.A.C.H. (Realizing Educational and Career Hopes.)
September 12
Morris Cruise Night
105 E. Main Street
Morris, IL 60450
2nd Saturday every month through October
6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
$10 per registered vehicle
No alcohol, no pets
http://www.morriscruisenight.com/cruisedates.html
