The annual RCMP Open House held on Friday, May 15th was a huge success as attendance was the highest since the Open House was established. By 1pm, over 200 hot dogs had been given away eclipsing the 150 that were provided all of last year. The detachment had to go on a hot dog run to ensure those that came later had an opportunity for a hot dog.
The fact that schools were closed may have added to attendance but also the variety of displays also contributed to the large crowds. Two of the popular displays were the Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Branch with their numerous taxidermy animals that ranged from cougars to wolves and the retro cars that included a 1980 Plymouth Fury and a 1991 Mustang.
The RCMP’s Youth Initiatives and Education in Lifestyles and Driving Association (Y.I.E.L.D.) car drew many of the youngest in attendance. The YIELD program steers street racers off roads and onto racetracks. They work closely with Castrol Raceways in providing young drivers an opportunity to safely drag race. The program is support by the RCMP.
The public was also able to observe a number of vehicles used by the detachment including the black & white retro car currently used in Leduc and a boat that is used in search and rescue missions.
Inside the detachment visitors were able to meet with Victim Services, NightHawks, Child & Family Services, Family & Community Support Services, and tour the detachment’s facilities.
The Leduc and District RCMP detachment is very active in the community, participating with various initiatives such as Victim Services, Citizens on Patrol, Business Watch, Rural Crime Watch, Youth Justice Committee, Leduc Community Drug Action Committee, RCMP Auxiliaries Program, a School Resource Officer, Crime Stoppers, Bike Patrol (in the summer months), and DARE.
The Leduc and District RCMP detachment would like to thank the Co-Op and Tim Horton’s along with all the various agencies and individuals who contributed to making the day a huge success.