D&S Automotive Collision and Restyling will host its Seventh Annual Cruise-In on Saturday, July 25

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Last year’s D&S Automotive Collision and Restyling Cruise-In included more than 200 cars. Best in Show was a stunning 1953 Ford F-100.

By Patricia Nugent

Whether you are a classic car buff or souped-up automobile enthusiast, don’t miss the D&S Automotive Collision and Restyling Seventh Annual Cruise-In, on Saturday, July 25, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

About 200 cars will be on display, coming from all over the country, as well as music, raffles and food trucks. New this year is the 4x4 class replacing the Performance Truck Class to include Jeeps, trucks and other offroad vehicles with upgrades.

“Being brought up in a philanthropic family, after my baby was so well cared for by University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital in 2012, I knew I wanted to give back,” says D&S President C.J. Paterniti.

“One of my twin daughters experienced breathing problems and at 2 a.m had to be transferred to Rainbow. She was there there for 21 days with my wife going back and forth between there and the hospital where my other daughter was still at. It really hit home with both of us how well the medical staff and hospital treats families and their young patients.”

The Cruise-In includes a Gift Raffle and 50/50 raffle. At the end of the day, the generous Paterniti family matches the amount raised at the event and donates all the money to the hospital, and the number on the check has grown each year. More than $49,000 has been raised.

“Prizes are awarded for different classes that include vintage, classic, modern, future classic, classic truck 4x4, performance truck, best paint job and best in show,” says C.J. “Last year’s best in show was a stunning silver 1953 Ford F-100.”

Instead of standard trophies, he says Best in Show winner recieves a custom painted tool box and class winners receive custom painted trash cans and piston trophies that people who work with cars would appreciate.

“It’s humbling and heart-warming to see how many people pitch in, care so much and see our purpose,” says C.J. “My family is deeply grateful to our employees, who donate their time, our sponsors and the whole community for supporting this event along the way.”

D&S Automotive Collision and Restyling is located at 7588 Tyler Boulevard in Mentor. To register your car, or for more information, call 440-602-3932 or visit DSAutoCruisein.com. The first 150 cars registered receive a commemorative dash plaque and goodie bag. Social distancing will be encouraged throughout the day. In addition, hand sanitizer stations will be available.