KULPMONT - Joe Cesari is confident the participants of the ninth annual Kulpmont Cruise don't travel through the borough for the prize Sunday afternoon, but because of a sense of community.
"There were thousands of people in town. We made a lot of people happy today," the event organizer excitedly said moments after the parade finished and the rest of the event was beginning.
It was another record year for the popular crowd-pleaser as 200 vehicles cruised around, revving their engines, throwing out candy and waving to the spectators.
There were Ferraris, Maseratis, Cameros, Mustangs, Model Ts and a variety of old-fashion and modern day wheels - every decade from 1920 on was represented, said Cesari.
At approximately 3:30 p.m., the drivers took their cars and trucks through Route 61 and paraded up and down the street 2 1/2 times while the crowds observed and cheered. Bright yellows, reds and blues - as well as painted designs of flags and fire - graced the shiny skin of the vehicles.
"It's a great thing," said Pat Bingamin, 57, of Colorado Circle, Kulpmont. "They take pride in their cars and restore them and keep them in good conditions."
She was at the event with her sister, brother-in-law and friend, and has enjoyed the previous Cruises she attended.
"It's good PR for the town. It brings a lot of people in," she said.
What makes the event special other than the cars themselves, said Cesari, is the different special features of the parade.
For example, a live Elvis impersonator (sponsored by the cruise committee) was singing on the back of a trailer. Duece, a live rock band sponsored by Shimock Furniture, was also playing tunes for the spectators, as well as a live DJ sponsored by H and P Construction. The Victorian Highwheelers, of Tamaqua, were also in the parade.
"It's been our ninth success," he said in regards to not only the cars, but the lack or rain and proceeds. "Every year, we get bigger and better."
At the Holy Angels picnic grounds, the event continued with trophies being awarded, entertainment and food and drinks.
All proceeds benefitted the Kulpmont Football and Baseball Association.