December 2nd, 2006 was the date for the 6th Annual Toys For Kids Cruise-In, which was presented by the Twilight Cruisers and Advance Auto Parts at the K-Mart Plaza on Highway 441 in Belleview, Florida. Though it was a December show the thermometer was reading around 78 degrees, however the overcast conditions no doubt kept many from bringing their cool car or truck out to play, as we were told the turnout was lighter than in previous years. Still, there were certainly lots of cool vehicles in attendance to check out all day long, and dash plaques went to the first 75. Trophies were awarded to the Top 40 Peoples Choice, 10 judged Specialties, and Best Of Show. There were over $1,500 worth of giveaways, a big 50/50 raffle and Chinese auction, the almost live DJ, and more. All told they were able to raise $1,200 dollars and an estimated $4,000 worth of toys for Interfaith Emergency Services.
Interfaiths slogan is Serving The Least, The Last and The Lost as they are a not for profit organization providing a variety of assistance for people of all faiths. That includes the basics such as food, clothing, shelter and more, to enhance the quality of life for families and individuals. They receive no government funds for their day-to-day operations, and for more than two decades their financial support has come from churches, individuals and businesses providing both monetary and in-kind support for their programs and services. In addition, special events (like the Toys For Kids Cruise-In) are held throughout the year to raise additional financial support, and gather resources....which for this show also included the donations of new, unwrapped toys from participants.
As of this date the Twilight Cruisers have contributed over $15,000 and approximately $30,000 worth of toys in their short 7 year existence. They plan to keep the ball rolling with their 7th Annual Toys For Kids Cruise-In during 2007, so keep an eye on the Coming Attractions section of Mike Kellys Cruise News as the information becomes available. In the mean time you can get more information about Interfaith Emergency Services and what they do to help others by visiting their web site at www.marion-interfaith.org. CN
Specialty Award Winners:
Best Of Show: Bob Mason 1932 Studebaker Dictator
Kellys Choice/Best Truck: Dennis & Mary Baker 1951 GMC 4x4
Vice Presidents Choice: Jim Sheridan 1953 Ford Victoria
Presidents Choice: Rose Golsner 1939 Studebaker Pickup
Best Custom: Fred Golsner 1952 Chevy 2-Door Hardtop
Best GM: Jack & Polly Tanner 1957 Chevy 210 Hardtop
Best FoMoCo: George Sandone 1956 Ford Victoria
Best Mopar: John Guarnero Chrysler Royal
Best Hot Rod: Max Miller 1929 Ford Roadster
Best Corvette: Lorin Slauson 1956 Chevy Corvette