The annual Sheriff’s Appreciation Day was July 19th at the Cove in Concord Park on Northshore Drive from 5:00 until after dark.  This was the eighth year that the Knox County Sheriff’s Office showed the community how much it appreciates the year round support and encouragement from the citizens.  This is a family oriented event with plenty of activities for kids such a climbing wall and moonwalk, food, music, and even a touch of Mayberry.  And best of all, everything is free.

 “This is a great way to say thank you to Knox County and give people a chance to see the dedicated men and women of the Sheriff’s Office and the great work they do everyday,” said Jimmy “J.J.” Jones.  “It’s also an important community outreach so residents can see first hand the resources used to help keep them safe.  It’s their Sheriff’s Office and we’re here to serve them.”  KCSO had  many of its special teams and equipment set up for hands on displays.  Rural/Metro also had equipment and demonstrations available.

This year, WIVK radio sponsored up and coming singer, songwriter Joshua Stevens.  He was a finalist in the USA Network show, “Nashville Star.” 

After his concert, there people gathered on the shoreline to watch the KCSO Dive Team simulate an air water rescue from a helicopter.

Rural/Metro and Pyro Shows sponsored the annual fireworks show.  This is always an exciting way to end the evening as people gather by the water and out in the lake on their boats to see the extravaganza put on by the same people who bring you Boomsday each year. 

Some folks from Mayberry were present, mingling with the crowd throughout the event.  Barney helped with crowd control and Mr. Darling played tunes on his jug.  KCSO deputies managed to keep Ernest T. Bass in line as well.