Enduring Classics: The Homesteads’ Second Annual Car Show

By Larissa Lytwyn

The Homesteads of Newtown, an assisted living facility, sponsored its second annual car show recently, featuring more than 30 exhibitors from across the region.

“Registration cost five dollars,” said self-described car enthusiast Kerry Cardinal, activities director of The Homesteads. “All proceeds benefit the victims of Alzheimer’s disease.”

A graduate of Western Connecticut State University in Danbury, Mr Cardinal drew on his education in business and management, including an internship at Disney World, to head special events for The Homesteads. In addition to awarding plaques to the best antique cars and muscle roadsters, Mr Cardinal oversaw the raffle, featuring a variety of donated lamps, prints, and vases.

In the Vintage Category, first place honors went to Newtown resident George Mattegat’s mint-condition 1930 Ford Model A Roadster. Second place went to Les Burroughs’s 1930 Ford Model A Pickup. Mr Burroughs is also a Newtown resident. Jack Behn of Trumbull won third place with his 1941 Packard Sedan. In the Muscle Category, Andrew Paproski of Newtown won first place with his 1970 Chevelle. Jerry Verialli, also of Newtown, won second place with his 1966 apple-red Corvette. Third place went to Waterbury resident Paul Terrucci’s Chevy Malibu.

Skip Dickerson, a Sandy Hook resident for more than 50 years, brought his ’55 Ford pickup to the show. He said he has exhibited the truck, in addition to his ‘66 Mustang, at various car shows across the region for a number of years. “I’ve won some trophies with them,” he said. “I enjoy it.”

Steven Ellis, also of Sandy Hook, had the oldest car in the show — a 1920 Model T that he said has been in his family for generations. “I had it completely restored a few years ago,” he said. “I don’t show it for prizes — I just display it.” A longtime participant in car shows throughout the state, he said it was his first time in The Homesteads exhibition. “I really like the show they have in Mystic Seaport every year,” he said. “They’re all just great fun.”

Kyle Ferrucci of Watertown also enjoyed the Model T, climbing into the driver’s seat and smiling at onlookers from behind the wheel. “He loves this!” said his father, Robert Ferrucci.

 “I wish I had cleaned up my ‘79 Volkswagen!” laughed attendee Georgie Kobykinski of Bethel. “I would have entered it.” Ms Kobykinski said her love of vintage autos was rooted in her father’s passion for cars. “He bought and sold old cars,” she said. “He was quite the car buff. And so am I!”

Classic hits from the 40s and 50s played steadily throughout the day, compliments of Southbury-based disc jockey Vincent Lamenza, whose career has included commercial voiceover work and other projects.

Morrison Dining Services, which serves The Homesteads regularly, offered patrons a spread of classic barbeque staples, including pulled pork sandwiches and other treats. An ice cream truck driven by a local college student and an Italian ice vendor were also on hand.