Rod Benders Gearing Up For Annual Jamboree

Still months away from warm summer breezes, weekend barbeques and boating on the lake, it's never too early to mark your calendar for the first Saturday in June.

Especially if you're a vintage car buff who can't wait to show off the Model T or the Desoto you've been working on all winter at the Bonners Ferry Rod Benders' annual Jamboree June 7.

Now in its seventh year, the Rod Benders' car shows on Main Street are more like community block parties with owners of vintage vehicles displaying their craftsmanship and ingenuity of restored cars and pickup trucks.

From coupes to convertibles, street racers and cherried-out cars, the Rod Benders' annual summer event draws crowds of spectators throughout the Northwest and Canada.

"Last year we had 130 cars lined up on Main Street, about 30 percent more than the previous year," said Don James, Rod Benders' cruise director. "We had perfect summer weather, and people seemed to pour in from everywhere. It was great event."

The number of participants showing their vehicles has also increased each year, added James.

"Our shows are getting bigger and better attended all the time," he said. "We have people bringing their vehicles from as far away as Alaska."

What makes the Rod Benders' event more unique than most vintage car shows, said James, is that the judges consider all vehicles for the top 12 "Best Of" awards regardless of category.

"Two years ago a pickup won Best of Show, which is a little different," said James.

For more information, contact Don James at 267-5056. To learn more about Rod Benders' events, log onto www.bfrodbenders.com