CONTACT: Galen Muller (319) 465-5119

TV and movie star John Schneider, new selection of show vehicles highlight O'Reilly Auto Parts Rod & Custom Car Show Feb. 25-26 in Monticello, Iowa

One of the Midwest's longest running rod and custom car shows returns to Monticello, Iowa, Feb. 25-26, 2012. KCRG-TV9 Presents the 43rd Annual O'Reilly Auto Parts Rod & Custom Car Show features a lineup of impressive show vehicles and a special appearance by actor John Schneider of "Dukes of Hazzard" TV fame who will be available for autographs and photos.

The event has been held annually since 1970 and once again will be held at the Monticello Berndes Center, 766 North Maple Street in Monticello, only 35 miles from Cedar Rapids or Dubuque on U.S. Highway 151. Parking is free.

Although the cars are the stars, this family event will include plenty of other features: DJ and Master of Ceremonies Dave Palmer of 3-D Sound Company will keep the music coming as well as serve as Master of Ceremonies and provide commentary throughout the show;

Caricature artist David Fliss of Flissart Entertainment returns to draw spectator portraits at no charge;

"Papa Balloon" artist Mark Garvey returns with even more balloon creations; The 27th Annual Model Car Contest features plenty of trophies and model car kit prizes; Spectators will vote People's Choice Awards for cars/pickups, motorcycles and model cars; Roving ventriloquist Rick Jenkins, a new show addition, will delight young and old.

Casey's General Store trophies and Prairie Farms cash prizes will be awarded for everything from Best Rod to Best Motorcycle to Best Paint. There will be door prizes, including gift cards from O'Reilly Auto Parts, Casey's General Store and Prairie Farms.

Although best known for his portrayal of Bo Duke on the popular "Dukes of Hazzard" series, Schneider has been working on TV and movie projects for years as an actor, producer and director. Schneider's most recent role was that of Sam's father on the hit Fox series "Glee." He recently wrapped shooting of the film "Backwater" and hosts the CMT show "American Diesel." Schneider is also known to TV audiences as Jonathan Kent, adoptive father of Clark Kent on the hit show "Smallville", starring in 100 episodes and directing several. Alongside his acting career, Schneider performed as a country music singer releasing nine studio albums and a greatest hits package, as well as 18 singles. Schneider helped found the Children's Miracle Network.

Schneider will be available Saturday, Feb. 25, from noon to 4 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 26, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Show hours are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. Awards presentation is set for 7:30 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children 12 and under. Children 12 and under are admitted free with a paid adult. Get $1 off by bringing a can of food to benefit Four Oaks family programs.