Cruise In To Summer

by Nancy DeWitt

Every car museum needs a signature event. We put a lot of thought into this over the winter, and decided to combine the beauty of Alaska's endless summer days, the enthusiasm of Alaska's car collectors and the fun of Fairbanks' Summer Solstice events all into one big celebration. Having our car museum situated at a hotel and resort makes it the perfect venue for what we have planned.

Introducing the inaugural Midnight Sun Cruise-In! From June 18-20, you're invited to check out the range of festivities we're organizing at Wedgewood Resort. Besides on-going museum activities (lots of hoods up, scavenger hunts for kids, etc.), weekend highlights will include:

• Friday evening dinner cruise to an authentic Alaska salmon bake
• Saturday car show for vehicles 1980 and older. People's Choice awards will be given in six classes. Free for spectators!
• Saturday evening "Tour de Fairbanks" cruise organized by the Vernon L. Nash Antique Car Club
• Saturday night awards banquet and entertainment
• Steam car demonstrations

The weekend will coincide with many other fun Fairbanks events, including the downtown Summer Solstice Fair, the Midnight Sun Run, and the Sourdough Fuel Father's Day Car Show (Sunday). The Midnight Sun Baseball Game will take place on Monday, June 21.

Most exciting is that Dennis Gage of the Speed Channel will be our special guest for the weekend. Dennis will be filming an episode for his "My Classic Car" television series, so you'll definitely want to enter your ride in the show. Who knows, he may film your car!

We're offering a discounted rate at Bear Lodge for the weekend and hope many out-of-towners will join us for this car-filled weekend. Visit our web page at http://www.fountainheadhotels.com/auto and scroll to the bottom for more information about the Cruise-In.

Please tell us how you feel about this new event. Suggestions are welcome too!