The Lakeland Police Department held it's 8th annual Open House on March 19, 2011. This 
Open House was eventful because it was the first opportunity for the public to meet our new Police Chief, Lisa Womack. Chief Womack opened the event with comments welcoming the public and stated, "I am very happy and honored to be the Police Chief of this department. You will find that I believe that the police are here to serve the community and make our community a safe place to live. But this event is more about you and not so much about me. Please enjoy yourselves today and see what the Lakeland Police Department is all about. Please do not hesitate to ask any officers you see here any
questions you may have." Chief Womack then remained in the crowd meeting citizens and was warmly received by the community.
The Open House offers a variety of things for people of all ages. There were all kinds of activities for children: bounce houses, face painting, basketball toss, cotton candy, hotdogs, popcorn, and pictures. Children also received bicycle helmets and other trinkets. 
There were tours of the police department that included information on gangs, the disaster communication center, the communication center, the holding facility, and the crime lab. There was also a demonstration by the K9 unit, and exhibitions set up by the many different areas within the department.
This Open House was a great success. Special thanks to the Community Services Unit that works so hard to put this event on each year. Also a big thanks to the volunteers that donate their special skills and time to our community. This is a chance for the citizens of Lakeland to see the department, get information about current trends occurring in the community, ask questions about concerns or issues, and relax and have fun all in a family atmosphere.
- posted by Sergeant Terri Smith
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