Brothers in brown united in their fight against crime and devotion to protecting the law-abiding public.
That’s how Oakland County Sheriff’s deputies view themselves 364 days a year.
But there’s one day when they allow a friendly rivalry to divide them, so they can raise money for charity and earn bragging rights.
This year, that day is Saturday, Sept. 8. That’s when the Third Annual Bars vs. Cars softball game will take place at Seymour Lake Township Park in Oxford.
Game time is 5 p.m.
Members of the public are invited to watch the deputies who guard the jail (Bars) take on the deputies who patrol the roads (Cars).
Bars has beaten Cars for two years running, so spectators can look forward to a hard-fought game as the warriors of the road seek a satisfying mix of redemption and revenge, while the keepers of the jail hunt for the coveted three-peat.
Admission to the game is $10 per wristband and “every penny raised” will benefit the Oakland County Deputy Sheriff’s Association (OCDSA) Family Benevolent Fund, according to the Deputy Mark Chevalier, who’s been organizing Bars vs. Cars since 2016.
He explained the fund, which replaced the Children’s Benevolent Fund, is designed to “help families” dealing with a “financial crisis” by doing things such as paying their utility bills, buying groceries and anything else they might need to keep their heads above water.
“Our communities support us, so the idea is to support them (in return),” Chevalier said. “I just enjoy giving back. I really do.”
In addition to raising money for a worthy cause, Chevalier, who’s been with the sheriff’s office since 1997, said the game is a great opportunity to bolster the spirit of “camaraderie” within the ranks of the sheriff’s office by helping deputies get to know each other better. It’s a chance for new deputies to expand their social circle and veterans to reconnect with each other.
“Our department’s grown so big since I’ve been here,” Chevalier said. “The more people we have, the less we see people.”
Adults and youth are invited to compete in a home run derby immediately following the game. It costs $30 to participate and there will be a cash prize for the winner. Derby proceeds will also benefit the OCDSA Family Benevolent Fund.
To purchase a wristband for the game in advance or register for the home run derby, please send an email to Chevalier at mdchevalier@yahoo.com.