Teams

Meddling Kids

Garage Headquarters: Abington, PA

Driver: Rob Monahan

Mechanics: James Puleo, Bob Milkalkrewicz, Laura Garrett, Janine Nemeth

Nuts and Bolts:

On any normal day, you can find Laura Garrett, Bob Michalkiewicz, Rob Monahan, Janine Nemeth, and James Puleo at AMEC in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, where Laura and Bob work as environmental scientists, Rob is an engineer, Janine is an executive assistant, and James is an architectural designer. But on September 6, they’ll all be just a bunch of “Meddling Kids” in Manayunk as they contend at the Red Bull Soapbox Race with an entry inspired by “Scooby Doo.”

Janine, the team’s captain, describes her colleagues. “We’re different ages and backgrounds, but we all enjoy city-wide events, environmental clean-ups, and charitable opportunities,” she states. “We work hard and play hard, and we love a challenge.” As a collection of professionals, the teammates are mad serious about constructing their racer, with one group building the chassis while the other focuses on the vehicle’s decorative shell and costumes. To all outward appearances, however, the entry will be nothing but fun. The racer itself is a replica of the cartoon’s flower-power “Mystery Machine Van,” and the team members will recreate the appearance – and the antics – of beloved characters Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, Velma, and Scooby himself. “In regard to speed, we will certainly be a force to be dealt with,” Janine comments. “And when it comes to the People’s Choice Award, we’ll win the crowd over with Scooby Snacks!”