Contributed by Russ Muller
Red and blue lights are flashing, sirens are wailing, a helicopter is landing and there’s K-9 units closing in. Getting a little nervous? There’s no need. Really. They are not after you. They are all here for Cops `n Cars for Kids, the annual car show/law enforcement/emergency services outreach event hosted by the Oviedo Optimists Club and held at the Oviedo Mall…
Saturday, January 21st started out like the last several Cops `n Cars shows, a little chilly and overcast. The sun checked in and out throughout the event, keeping the temperature comfortable, and the rain held off until the awards presentation at the end. Over 250 cars participated in the judged car show. Everything from Model T’s to modern muscle were there to be enjoyed by the crowds. Classic Camaro of Central Florida, the Central Florida Classic Truck Club, the MG car club
and several other clubs brought out their vintage vehicles, while the local Challenger and Camaro clubs made sure that modern muscle was also well represented. DJ Don of Cruisin Orlando not only provided great music, he also brought his lifted 4X4 Lil Digger for kids to take their pictures with.
Law enforcement agencies from all over Central Florida attended to show off their new and vintage police vehicles while getting to spend time interacting with their local community. The FHP brought their vintage Camaro and Fox body Mustang police cars, and Kissimmee, Sanford, and Orange County brought their classics too. Police departments from UCF, Ocoee, Clermont, Winter Springs, Oviedo, Casselberry, Maitland, Orange County, Seminole County, FHP and others had displays of their current police vehicles along with some specialty displays (like the accident rollover simulator and underwater search and recovery vehicle). Seminole County brought their helicopter, and several local agencies partnered to provide a great K-9 demonstration for the crowd. There were activities for the kids, and several food vendors were on hand to make sure nobody left hungry (unless they wanted to…).
There were 35 ‘civilian’ cars selected for trophies from the 250+ participants, along with several law enforcement vehicles which were judged by the law enforcement officers. While there was no shortage of beautiful cars worthy of awards, the Best of Show was indeed a standout: a stunning, pro-touring ’64 Corvette. As the awards were wrapping up, a little bit of rain started falling, reminding us all that the show was ending and it was time to go. A great day for car enthusiasts, as well as friends of law enforcement. This annual event is one that you don’t want to miss, so keep your eyes open for it in 2024.
More photos from the event HERE.
