On Saturday
August 27th, the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office hosted its bi-year
Open House. This event is an opportunity for the public to meet the men and
women of the Sheriff’s Office, Detention Center, and their law enforcement
partners and public safety providers in the community. Sheriff Mike Evans
kicked off the event with the help of some special guests. Bishop Patton from
the Lighthouse Church gave the invocation. That was followed by the Pledge of
Allegiance, led by the Young Marines of Southern Maryland, and Star Spangled
Banner, sung by Mrs. Joy Mitchell. The Sheriff then conducted a ceremonial roll
call inspection of two Deputy Sheriffs and their patrol vehicles. At Open
House, the public gets the opportunity to tour the building and learn about its
history while intermingling with the Sheriff and his staff. Outside, there are
plenty of activities for our young people. Dunk tank, fast pitch, face
painting, balloon art, and cotton candy are regular attractions. 2016 was the
second time Open House attendees got the opportunity to meet some of their
favorite super heroes. Spiderman, Thor, Captain America, and Anna wowed the
kids and posed for pictures with young and old alike. Reptile Man and his
slithery friends drew the curiosity of many. The local chapter of the ASPCA
brought along their furry friends for adoption. And our good friends from
Calvert K-9 Search Team gave an excellent demonstration on the amazing work
that they do.
The great
people from Fantasy World once again made numerous trips around the event
throughout the day in the kids train. Police mountain bike, motorcycle, and K-9
demonstrations showcased the talents and skills of our deputies. Static
displays to include our Special Operations Team, Detention Center, Department
of Natural Resources Police, Maryland State Police, and Coast Guard gave
visitors an opportunity to get a glimpse of their unique skills and services
they provide to the community. There was no shortage of food. Firehouse Subs,
Hardesty’s Haven, Papa John’s, Rita’s and Maggie Moos kept everyone full.
We would
like to thank our neighbors at Trinity Church, St. Paul’s Church, the Sheridan
Building, Gray Inn Court, 7-11, Subway, Midas, Top Hat, Prince Frederick Dodge,
the Foundation Heroes, and the Prince Frederick Volunteer Fire Department
(Company 2) for supporting this event. We would also like to acknowledge our
corporate sponsors who include, Bayside Auto Group, Stoney’s, Trader’s Seafood
Steak and Ale, Exelon Generation, Fastop, The Gott Company, J&J Portables,
SMECO, Firehouse Subs, Dominion, and Sneade’s Ace Home Center. This year’s donation check was made payable
to Camp Jr. Sheriff in the amount of $1,000.00.
None of this
would have been possible without the countless hours of hard work and planning
from the members of the Open House Committee, and the deputies Explorers, civilian
staff, and volunteers who all went the extra mile to make Open House 2016 a
huge success. We hope to see everyone back in Spring 2018.