How It All Started . . .

In 2003, a dozen local car enthusiasts grouped together in their excitement about the prospect of starting a local car event.  Everyone liked the idea of having an admission-free cruise-in open to everyone.  The proceeds of the first five years benefited the nationally recognized Automotive Service Technology Program at C. S. Monroe Technology Center in Leesburg, Virginia.

In 2008, recognizing that the participants and spectators of the previous events are avid NASCAR fans, the Victory Junction Gang was selected to benefit from the proceeds of the Summer Thunder Cruise-in.  Local businesses and national corporations generously donate money and merchandise aimed at making this annual event a success.  Thousands of dollars are raised to put on the event as well as to make a donation to the Victory Junction Gang Camp (VJGC).  The VJGC enriches the lives of children with chronic medical conditions or serious illnesses by providing life-changing camping experiences that are exciting, fun and empowering, in a safe and medically sound environment. 

The Summer Thunder Cruise-In Committee:  Mary Liz McCauley, Phyllis and John Ziakas, Ken Walsh, Larry O'Donohue and Donnie Nesselrodte.

Interested in volunteer or sponsorship opportunities for next year's Summer Thunder Cruise-In 2009?  Please email us at stcruisein@aol.com.  We are always looking for caring individuals who would like to volunteer their time for such a worthy cause!