Spooky season starts with frightful weather at East Middleboro 4-H Spooktacular
Oct 2, 2022
Paul Mennett, left, presents an award to a festive car. Photos by: Rusty Gorelick
Lincoln Weatherell, 13 months, dressed as a devil.
From left to right: Alana Vidot, her grandfather Jerry Pereira, skeleton-dog Indy, and skeleton Ralph.
The Cruisin’ New England crew poses to commemorate Paul Mennett’s (third from right) last car show.
Kensington Mack, left, 9, with Corbin Mack, 5.
From left to right: Addison Lanoue, 11, Molly Quinn, 12, and Connor Quinn, 9, with Lanoue’s dog Artemis.
MIDDLEBORO—Classic cars and Halloween might not seem like a natural pairing, but each fall at the 4-H grounds in East Middleboro, spooky vehicles are a tradition at the Cruisin’ New England Spooktacular.
The 29th Annual Spooktacular held Sunday, Oct. 2 had to fight harsh winds and the threat of rain, leading to a lower-than-expected turnout from classic cars and the community. The show ended at 1 p.m. instead of 3 p.m. because of the weather.
The event benefitted the East Middleboro 4-H Club, an organization that helps young people build skills. Along with over 35 classic cars, the show had games and contests for kids, a few vendors, raffles, and prizes for just about everybody.
“We want all the kids to go home with a smile on their face,” said Cruisin’ New England producer and TV show host Paul Mennett. “That’s what I have to say: Keep ‘em smiling.”
Kids who attended had an early opportunity to flaunt their Halloween costumes. Harry Potter, a hockey player, a ladybug, two dinosaurs, and two plague doctors were present. They trick-or-treated by going from car to car, taking candy from baskets set up by car owners and show organizers.
Cars on display ranged from a 1927 Ford Model T to shiny, new-looking Chevrolet Corvettes and Camaros. Many cars had been passed down generations or bought and fixed up by families.
Cars could win prizes for Halloween decorations or for their appearance and rarity.
Mennett has hosted more than 200 car shows benefitting charities throughout New England for 30 years. Sunday’s Spooktacular was his last. He wants the public to know that his TV show will continue on New England Sports Network for another three years, and he hopes someone will “take the reins” in his absence.
Mennett became emotional while thanking his Cruisin’ New England crew who have helped him organize the business for the last three decades. Crew members made their appreciation heard in return.
“Paul brought more people together than anyone I’ve met in my life,” said Cruisin’ New England crew member Jim Gallagher. Crew member Sylvia Sgambato added, “we all became like brothers and sisters.”
