LARGE TURNOUT IN ORLANDO OR "VACATION CAPITAL POLICE BADGE AND PATCH SHOW"
by Doug Sarubbi & Dennis Beyer
The ROSEN PLAZA HOTEL was the location for the Sep. 4, 2021 Vacation Capital Police Badge and Patch Show. Hobbyists from across the Country used over 100 tables to display vintage badges, patches, and other Law Enforcement collectibles.
There was a positive response to this year's show even with covid still on the scene. The hosts were Doug Sarubbi, and John Holmes.
Collectors seemed to have a twin focus at this years' show. First, was the obvious interest in the displays' and items for sale or trade. The Second, was the simple conversations regarding the impact of the covid pandemic on our hobby.
In the previous year we dealt with physical health issues, and the related strain on our emotions. Stress and turmoil ruled our lives, but this years' show was a major step forward bringing us out of the shadows of the plague that impacted our lives.
Every display at the 2021 Show was a reflection of a lifetime investment in the hobby. Each display had a story. Each item had a story.
The Badge below belongs to Ron Bartholomue. He has been a Collector for 50 years. He has every Presidential Inauguration Badge since 1935. He proudly displays his collection, and is happy to talk about each badge. The shield below was the first issue, and was made, not by a governmental department, but by the Shriner's in 1935. This was during Franklin Roosevelt's Presidency.
In another corner of the Rosen Plaza Hotel's Ballroom there were multiple tables used by Jeff Peeler. He is a regular at Florida shows, and is also happy to tell the story about his Florida Highway Patrol Collection. The item below is a nicely framed and labeled grouping of the various ranks for Troopers.
Looking around the Ballroom several Displays had other items of Law Enforcement Memorabilia. Some fine examples are pictured below. The first photo is of an antique Hat, and Red and Blue police car lights. The second photo focuses on Jacksonville Police Department and Duvall County Sheriff's Department. It includes uniform shirts and a rare photo of uniformed officers.
At the Noon Hour the Show was called to order and awards were presented by the organizers. Doug Sarubbi made the announcements and presentation of the 2021 trophies. Doug's daughter, Meghan, assisted with the photography.
Below are photos of the winners, with the Hosts of the Show. They are:
1. Jeff Peeler for BEST PATCH DISPLAY
2. Dennis Beyer for BEST BADGE DISPLAY
3. Gary Teragawa for BEST OVERALL DISPLAY
4. Mark Weinstein for Honorable Mention
5. Sam Goldstein Won the Patch Drop
In conclusion take a look at this picture of two old license plates. The top plate carries a message - ARRIVE ALIVE. That is a very positive thought. Keep it in mind when thinking of 2022, your future endeavors, and next years' Show.
