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Cars line up in Billings Heights for 'Corona Cruise'

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Classic cars could be seen on Main Street in Billings as part of the Corona Cruise Friday night, and organizers said people stayed safe.

"So far tonight, it's going beautiful," said Rick Boyce of Magic City Street Cars. "We've got some beautiful cars running up and down Main Street, just cruisin'. A lot of people, husbands, wives out with the old car they've had in the garage forever. They're respecting other drivers. They're respecting the streets. They're respecting the laws. It's a rally to support all the front line, law enforcement, emergency people. We support America, flags fly and that's what it's all about."

Earlier this week, Billings Police Chief Rich St. John held a news conference, hoping to stop some of the behavior he says has been taking place over the past few weeks with reckless driving, drinking, and crowds gathering in parking lots.

The chief promised more police presence for future events after more than 100 citations and warnings were given out last weekend.

The chief said there is an ordinance banning cruising and loitering (although it's been rarely enforced for decades) and he preferred that officers work in other areas.

Those on Main Street say it was not like 24th Street West the last week, which saw nearly all the citations.

The cruising took place on Main between Lake Elmo Drive and Wicks Lane.

Organizers say many received permission from owners to park in their lots.

These Corona cruises started with in early April after Gov. Steve Bullock announced his stay-at-home orders. That order was lifted April 30.

Boyce said the car owners park and patronize the business owners.

He expects to have the next Corona Cruise in June.