The early morning mist that blanketed the grounds of the Don Garlits Museum in Ocala, Florida, gave way to partly cloudy skies that helped make the 8th Annual Toys For Kids Car Show held by the Twilight Cruiser on December 8th a resounding success. Over 300 classics of every variety attended the annual show, that is turning out to be the Christmas event in the area.

Estimates were that a whopping $7,500 worth of toys were collected for Interfaith, a local charity that has been in existence for over 20 years in Marion county, along with $1,300 dollars in cash for their programs, which include a seniors medicine program.

Many clubs attended this year’s event, and $1,500 worth of prizes were given back to the participants. There were 45 people’s choice trophies handed out, along with 15 specialty trophies. This year’s 50/50 topped last year’s $525 by $303 dollars, for a grand total of $828 going to the winner. The unusual six foot stuffed stocking and Polish auction were also big hits.

Don Garlits handed out his Choice trophy to Robert Mason, the owner of a 1932 Studebaker Coupe, and “Big Daddy” Don Garlits also accepted a platinum sponsor award from Steve Hawter, the President of the Twilight Cruisers, for his help in allowing the club to hold the event at his great location - located just off I-75 at exit 341. Don also agreed to let the club have the event there next year, so mark your calendars for the first Saturday in December (which in 2009 will fall on December 5th) for the annual show. CN

Specialty Awards:

Outstanding GM: Craig Cockins • 1970 Olds 442

Outstanding FoMoCo: Jeff Arnolds • 1964 Galxy XL

Outstanding Corvette: Joe Seidel • 1965 Corvette

Outstanding Truck: George Nicholson • 50’s Ford Stepside

Outstanding Chevy: Robert Nicholson • 1968 Camaro

Outstanding Paint: Bobby Dupreee • 1978 Chevy Malibu

Outstanding Late Model: Harvey Isaacs • Chevy SSR

Outstanding Mopar: Art Py Sr. • 1968 Dodge Coronete 500 Convert.

Outstanding Hot Rod: Craig Foller • Chevelle SS