10th Anniversary Woodward Dream Cruise Cruises to a Winning Finish

HUNTINGTON WOODS, Mich., Aug. 25 -- Sunny skies, pleasant temperatures, head-turning vintage vehicles, tricked-out custom cars and a flurry of family friendly amusements and activities drew a record estimated attendance of 1.8 million to the 10th Anniversary Woodward Dream Cruise held Saturday, Aug. 21, 2004.

Police officials report no serious accidents or injuries marring the annual summer rite of passage, which is known as the world's largest one-day automotive event. The Woodward Dream Cruise (WDC) capitalizes on the area's strong automotive and musical heritage and enjoys an international reputation.

"It was quite a party. The whole community can be proud of a wonderful event. It works because of the cooperation of the cruisers and spectators who come to enjoy a family friendly day. Local law enforcement does a spectacular job of keeping the event safe and fun for everyone," said Caron Hall, Executive Director of the WDC.

The WDC again attracted visitors and media attention from around the nation and world as its reputation and influence continue to spread. A crew from cable TV's Travel Channel spent several days filming a program that will air next spring. BBC Radio called and requested an interview. Economic impact studies show that the WDC attracts out-of-area visitors who spend money on dining, shopping and lodging, generating income for Oakland County.

The Woodward Dream Cruise celebrates the heydays of the fifties and sixties when Woodward was the heart and soul of American cruising in the city that put America on wheels. Combined with the music and fashions of the era, the Woodward Dream Cruise celebrates the nostalgia of bygone days in the cars that made them so special.

The Woodward Dream Cruise stretches 16 miles through the host communities of Berkley, Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield Township, Ferndale, Huntington Woods, Pleasant Ridge, Pontiac and Royal Oak. Annually it attracts an amazing array of 40,000 classic, vintage, custom cars and hot rods. A full entertainment schedule with amusements, automotive displays and concerts fuels the event. Nearly 100 charities benefit from sales of refreshments and official merchandise.

Corporate and small business sponsors provide business involvement. Major sponsors in 2004 included Eaton Automotive, MotorCity Casino and General Motors. Media partners were WXYZ-TV Channel 7 and Oldies 104.3 WOMC.

The Woodward Dream Cruise is sponsored by a volunteer committee that coordinates the efforts of the nine host cities, the County of Oakland, media organizations, transportation authorities, corporations, small businesses and charities. After 10 successful years, Caron Hall is stepping down from her role as Executive Director. "What a great note to go out on," she said.

Next year's event will be held Aug. 20, 2005.

For more information about the event or to purchase official souvenir WDC 10th Anniversary merchandise, visit the web site at http://www.woodwarddreamcruise.com/ .