About the Cruise
Over 2 decades of chrome, community, and charity on Gratiot Avenue.
Our Purpose
More Than a Car Show
Cruisin’ Gratiot brings together car enthusiasts, local businesses, and the Eastpointe community for one of Metro Detroit’s most anticipated summer traditions.
Mission Statement
“Community, Charities, City Pride, Cruisin’ and Family Fun”
Purpose Statement
The purpose of the Eastpointe Gratiot Cruise is to organize an annual car show and cruise as a community event which will be family-friendly, highlight the City of Eastpointe, encourage visitors to patronize local businesses and provide a forum for multiple charities. In addition to securing funding for the event from various sponsors, Eastpointe Gratiot Cruise intends to donate all proceeds received to charitable organizations with a focus on local needs.
+
Years of Cruisin’ Gratiot
Since 1999
Our Beneficiaries
Over 25 years, Cruisin’ Gratiot has supported dozens of charitable organizations focused on local needs. From youth programs to veteran support, food banks to medical research—every dollar raised stays in our community.
Meet the Board
Cruisin’ Gratiot is organized entirely by volunteers who share a passion for classic cars and community. Meet the team that makes it happen.
Steve Upton
President
Jim Mischel
Vice President
Sharon Upton
Secretary / Administration
Ken Thiel
Board Member
Kevin Rowley
Board Member
Ralph Birchall
Board Member
Our History
How It All Started
What began as a simple question in 1998 has grown into one of Metro Detroit’s most beloved summer traditions.
The Beginning (1998-1999)
It started with a simple question. In 1998, Carol Corrie—then General Manager of Cloverleaf—asked Eastpointe Police Safety Officer Tom Ostrowski: “What would be the possibility of a Classic Car Cruise on Gratiot?”
Officer Ostrowski was polite but not encouraging. Others responded with “it will never fly” or “what, are you nuts?” But Carol persevered.
The first Cruisin’ Gratiot was held on June 20, 1999, setting the tradition of holding the event the Saturday before Father’s Day.
Building Support
The cruise gained support from then-Mayor Harvey Curley, the Eastpointe City Council, and city department heads. The Eastpointe Police and Fire Departments became instrumental partners.
Tom Ostrowski, along with then-Police Chief Tom Danbert and Inspector Mike Lauretti, were instrumental in securing a dedicated cruise lane through MDOT.
The Original Board (1999)
The first Cruisin’ Gratiot Board was established in 1999:
- Jim Winn — Networking Forum
- Peggy Brown — Executive Director, E-R Chamber
- Magdalena Gbur — President, E-R Chamber
- Paula Holz — Eastpointe DDA Director
- Tom Danbert — Eastpointe Police Chief
- Carol Corrie — General Manager, Cloverleaf
25+ Years and Counting
What started as one woman’s vision has grown into an annual tradition that brings thousands of visitors to Gratiot Avenue every summer.
Over the years, Cruisin’ Gratiot has raised funds for dozens of local charities, supported countless local businesses, and created memories for car enthusiasts of all ages.