With National Thank a Police Officer Day taking place last Saturday, September 19, the Thank a Rochester Cop Committee is encouraging residents, businesses, and organizations to help “paint the city blue” and show their appreciation for the Rochester Police Department.

This week, students from Spaulding High School’s art program helped prepare for the celebration by creating police-themed artwork that will be displayed on windows of downtown businesses. Additional downtown decorations will be installed for the weekend as the community comes together to recognize the dedication, professionalism, and service of Rochester’s police officers.

Throughout Rochester, blue lights, ribbons, bows, yard signs, and other decorations are serving as visible reminders of the community’s gratitude for the officers who work every day to keep Rochester safe. There is still time to participate, and free decorations and campaign swag remain available while supplies last at the committee’s community distribution locations: Profile Bank, Holy Rosary Credit Union, the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, and Granite Steak & Grill.

On Saturday morning, members of the Thank a Rochester Cop Committee will present Rochester Police Department officers with gift bags and raffle items donated by local businesses and supporters as a token of the community’s appreciation. While not a public event, the presentation is one of several ways the committee recognizes officers during the annual campaign. The committee is also grateful to Potter’s House Bakery for donating police-themed cookies for Rochester police officers. The bakery will also be offering police-themed cookies for sale throughout the weekend, giving community members another opportunity to participate in the celebration.

The Thank a Rochester Cop campaign is made possible through the generosity of local sponsors. Profile Bank serves as this year’s Underwriter Sponsor, with the American Legion, Eastern Propane & Oil, National Duty Supply, New England Gaming & Consulting LLC, and Norman Vetter Foundations serving as Major Sponsors. Additional sponsors are recognized on the campaign website, and there is still time for businesses and individuals to support this year’s effort.

National Thank a Police Officer Day provides an opportunity for the community to recognize the commitment and service of Rochester’s police officers and to express appreciation for the work they perform throughout the year.

For more information, sponsorship opportunities, a complete list of sponsors, or ways to participate, visit the Thank a Rochester Cop webpage or follow Thank a Rochester Cop on Facebook.