The Friends of the Bethlehem Mounted Police held the annual Bridles & Badges open house Sept. 7, and despite a heavy, gusty downpour, the event was well-received by the community.

“We appreciate your supporter our events,” said board President Diane Mack in her welcoming remarks. The mounted unit and Bethlehem Police Color Guard assembled as musician Greg Geist of The Large Flowerheads sang the national anthem to start the festivities.

Officers Cruz, Strydesky, Danko and Madera, on mounts Casper, Asa, Star of Bethlehem and Seamus respectively, circulated throughout the grounds at the Quadrant Private Wealth Stable Facility, greeting attendees and posing for photos with many residents.

Live music was provided by The Large Flowerheads, who performed a variety of 1960s and 1970s songs under the main tent.

The family event included the Bethlehem Carriage Company offering horse-drawn wagon rides, and the Disciples of Joy Clown Alley doing face painting. The Bethlehem Clubhouse and Giant provided a picnic lunch and cake dessert for purchase, and a raffle raised much needed funding for the mounted unit. Several vendors and food trucks offered their wares and treats to the public. Magician Joe Keppel entertained with his deft hand magic.

The mounted patrol unit offered a training demonstration toward the conclusion of the day’s activities, visitors were able to tour the facility, and mounted unit gear was available for purchase.

The Friends of the Bethlehem Mounted Police is a nonprofit that raises money to fund the mounted unit and provides volunteers to assist with maintaining the stable facility and caring for the horses.