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Excitement, classic cars and great food for a tremendous cause will blend with some awesome rock and roll for what is anticipated to be a great turnout for July’s First Friday’s Cruise-in to Hope event as everyone gathers on the Hope Town Square beginning at 5 p.m. Friday.

Last month’s event welcomed around 70 cars and raised nearly $700 for the Student’s Fund of Hope, says Jason Eckart, Hope Town Manager.

“This month’s event will support the Hope Volunteer Fire Department,” Eckart says. “The fire department will be on hand selling drinks during the event.”

And visitors are encouraged to bring their appetites as there will be an opportunity to show some love and support for one of Hope’s own.  

WILLow LeaVes of Hope and the Student’s Fund of Hope will be partnering to offer “Munching for Marleigh,” a fundraiser for Marleigh Frazee who was welcomed into this world June 18 weighing in at just one pound and four ounces to parents Ethan Frazee and Samy Perkins. From 5 to 8 p.m. the menu will offer tenderloins, hotdogs, sloppy joes and pork BBQ, with sandwiches only $8 or visitors can add chips and a drink for $10. A portion of the proceeds will be given to Marleigh’s family to cover her continued medical care.   

Local rockin’ band favorite Dirty Laundry will take the stage for the evening with a set list sure to get everyone up and dancing. Lead singer Lynn Woods says she and the band are excited to return to the town of Hope and perform.

“I think it is just a great opportunity to be around the community and I love Hope,” she says. “It is just a nice community and everyone is so friendly and caring. I am just so honored to be able to rock you guys this coming Friday.”

Those who haven’t had the opportunity to hear Dirty Laundry perform live are encouraged to come out and give them a listen. Woods says she is excited to introduce the band’s newest members ahead of their performance the following weekend during Battle of the Bands on July 15 in Hope on the Town Square.

Parking for Friday’s cruise-in will be available at the Hope United Methodist Church and the Hope Baptist Church, Eckart says.

For more information about the event, please visit Cruise-in to Hope on Facebook HERE.