Rod Run starts tonight

POST FALLS - The cruise is back at the River City Rod Run.

An oval cruise along Schneidmiller Avenue in front of the Hot Rod Cafe will be among the highlights when the 13th version of the show kicks off tonight.

"The cruise is new this year after we had one a number of years back," said Rob Elder, Hot Rod Cafe owner. "We're pretty excited to get the great cars of the area cruising around."

Hours for the free event are 5 p.m. to midnight today and 9 a.m. to midnight on Saturday.

The cruise is 6-9 p.m. tonight, followed by the neon and flame throwers from 9-10 p.m. Burnouts will be held from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Also new this year a loud pipes contest, which will be at 9:30 p.m. tonight and 2 p.m. on Saturday.

"It was brought on by popular demand," Elder said. "Some cars are called 'knockoffs' where the muffler is disconnected it goes straight to the header. A lot of people get into the loud sounds and having the engines revved up."

The High Ridaz stunt bike exhibition, a traditional crowd pleaser, returns and will be at 6 p.m. tonight and 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Music by Rock Bottom will be held each night and Crossfire will perform twice on Saturday.

The Peak Fitness Miss Hot Rod 2010 Contest will be at 9 p.m. on Saturday.

There will be several kids and adult activities to keep families entertained throughout the event.

"Rather than just having a car show, we try to make it a free family event for the community," Elder said. "People can get entertained for free, which is important, especially during this economy. We expect great car talent again and the weather looks to be perfect.