The Dancing Cop of Providence

Every city has it's own peculiar holiday traditions. Providence, Rhode Island has one that it truly unique; the Dancing Cop. Tony Lepore was a full-time police officer on the Providence police force for 17 years. One of the things that Tony enjoyed doing as a police officer was directing traffic. When Tony retired he didn't completely stop being a traffic cop, he now directs traffic in intersections of Providence's shopping district at Christmas. He doesn't just direct traffic he dances while doing it. He spins, pops, jives and discos about in the middle of the street with his whistle as his orchestra. Tony's "act" may not make for smooth flowing traffic but it gives pedestrians and drivers alike a holiday treat.
Not only does Tony direct traffic on Providence's streets but on television and in movies as well. He has appeared on both the Today Show and Good Morning America directing Manhattan traffic for the cameras. Tony also appears on local children's television as well as private parties. His website has offers of his various services. (http://www.providencedancingcop.com/about.html) He also has a doll!
Tony was a real cop. He saved lives and made arrests and walked a beat. One of the doing foot patrol was directing traffic. One day in 1984 he got bored while directing traffic and the dancing cop was born. He was influenced by an old Candid Camera episode. Tony is a lot of fun to watch unless you are in a hurray.
If you are in the Providence area during December stop and check Tony out!