Businesses, groups gear up for 'Thank a Police Officer' day

ROCHESTER - The third Saturday in September is being designated as National Thank a Police Officer Day, and five local organizations have come together to bring recognition of this national day to Rochester on Sept. 15.

A committee has been formed consisting of representatives from the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, Rochester Rotary Club, Holy Rosary Credit Union, American Legion Post 7 Women's Auxiliary and Rochester Main Street to recognize the positive impact that the Rochester Police Department has on our community.

The goal is to have visual displays throughout the city showing support for our men and women in blue. We envision decorating public spaces with blue lights, bows, garlands and the like, in order to

"Paint the City Blue."

Residents and businesses will also be encouraged to have their own displays at their addresses.

The principal partners are reaching out to the business community to partner with them and assist in funding the cost of materials to make this vision a reality.

They are seeking approximately 30-40 partners to contribute $100 each by Aug. 10, which will be dedicated to purchasing supplies for this effort. Any excess funds will be donated to a charity to be chosen by the men and women of the Rochester Police Department.

Partners will be recognized on a web page at www.rochesternh.org/NTPOD, on social media as well as on a plaque commemorating the day which will be presented to the Rochester Police Department.

Checks should be made payable and sent to Rochester Rotary Charities, PO Box 779, Rochester, NH 03866, noting the donation to National Thank A Police Officer Day (NTPOD).

Questions may be directed to NTPOD Committee Chair Lisa Stanley at 603-332-5506 or via email at admin@witwaysupply.com.