Blaine County set for a cruise

While the rest of the country bakes, some Blaine County residents think the Hi-Line's got perfect weather for a cruise.

This weekend is the second annual Blaine County Cruise, where drivers gather in Chinook for some food and fun before riding a circuit across the rest of the county, and this year even a little beyond.

Former Blaine County Undersheriff Pat Pyette stands next to his corvette, which was his pride and joy. This year's Blaine County Cruise in Blaine County is dedicated to Pyette, who died in the line of duty in December.

Tonight opens registration at the Blaine County Fairgrounds at 6 p.m., followed by a drive-in movie presentation of classic road comedy "Cannonball Run."

Saturday kicks off early, with breakfast and another opportunity to register from 7 to 9 a.m.

Drivers will leave Chinook to head to the dragstrip in Malta before heading down to Dodson and back to Chinook through Harlem and Zurich, with stops for games and activities in between.

The winners of the games rack up points that, at the end of the day, go toward a $1,000 cash prize.

Dinner will be served back at the fairgrounds from 6 to 7 p.m., at which time awards will be presented.

The event comes to a close with another drive-in movie, George Lucas' pre-"Star Wars" tale of 1950s Americana, "American Graffiti."

This year's Blaine County Cruise is dedicated to the late Pat Pyette, Blaine County undersheriff and fellow cruiser.

Mike Copenhaver, organizer of the event, said last year's cruise "was a big success," with 64 drivers participating. He hopes to get 100 this year and, judging by the interest shown so far, he believes they'll have at least that many.

"It's just a good chance to drive your car," Copenhaver said. "At most car shows its not really a show.

"You just sit there and look at the cars. You can only do that for so long. We wanted to do something different and it looks its working."

The movies are free, but the cruise, and the games along the way, require registration.

Participants can register early for $25 per vehicle, and $10 per additional vehicle per family. On the day of the event those prices go up to $30 and $15.

Registration information can be found at:

Performance One in Chinook (Mike) 406-357-2901

Jamieson Motors in Chinook (Matt or Fred) 406-357-2470

American Garage in Chinook (Heather) 406-357-4201

EZ Mart in Harlem - 406-353-2335

Duchscher Agency (Wally) in Havre - 406-265-7314