Saturday will be a Hot August Night

Wednesday, March 8, 2000 | 2:15 a.m.

Last year's event ended at noon Saturday as a way to avoid a repeat of a 1998 melee that resulted in more than 200 arrests.

But the shortened schedule was not without consequences. Fewer people attended the city's largest annual tourist draw, resulting in a 10 percent decline in hotel occupancy and a 17 percent drop at motels.

The City Council on Tuesday approved an expanded schedule for the week-long tribute to classic cars and rock 'n' roll. This year's event, which runs July 31 through Aug. 6, will conclude with a parade on Sunday.

Police will still enforce a crackdown on booze.

Deputy Police Chief Jim Weston said no outdoor alcohol consumption will be allowed except in designated areas.

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