Revving up for the annual classic car show

By KATHY NUSSBERGER

Managing Editor

Eight years after its inception, and with only 36 cars at that first show, the Rod Benders Car Club is expecting approximately 136 cars at this year's classic car show on June 2.

"With car clubs from throughout north Idaho, Canada, Montana and Washington attending this annual event, the car show has grown tremendously over the years," Event Chairman Gene Andrews said. "Due to the large numbers we are expecting as well as the possible clubs that may show up, we have put contingency plans into place for any overflow of vehicles wanting to participate."

Another aspect to this year's event is that many of the downtown businesses plan to be open to welcome the more than 1,000 visitors including the car owners, expected to be in Bonners Ferry.

"The Rod Benders Car Club currently has 32 member families involved, but many of our members have more than one car, so we have about 70 classic cars in just our club," Andrews explained. "Although many people are not aware of the extensive time and manpower it takes to put this event on, we have about 40 people actively helping with six committees just to make this year's show the best yet."

Car owners are encouraged to check in and register their vehicles between 9 a.m. and noon, with the official show running from noon to 3 p.m., and custom made trophies awarded between 3-4 p.m. The car show is open to visitors and car owners throughout the day.

"This year there are several raffles including a pig raffle, numerous door prizes, exhibits, music and of course, food," Andrews said. "After the car show ends at 4 p.m., the Beer Gardens will open at the Fairgrounds in preparation for the Lawnmower Races set to start at 5:30 p.m."