Carmel Police Going Purple for Relay for Life

You’ll see more than purple lines down center of the road on Route 6 in Putnam County beginning this Friday as Carmel police hit the road in purple patrol cars supporting the upcoming community cancer event, Relay For Life. The cars will be officially unveiled at a Paint the Town Purple event to kick off the 19th Relay For Life of Mahopac, 11:30 a.m. Friday at Chamber Park on Route 6.

“While this is the first year that the Police have carried the message on their vehicles, the entire department has actively supported Relay For Life in our town for 19 years,” said Tracey Walsh of the American Cancer Society. “It was a wonderful surprise and one of the most unique ways to illustrate their connection with the cancer issue in our town,” she added.

The idea to detail all of the department’s vehicles with the Relay logo and purple ribbons was led by volunteers including Mahopac’s Nicole Stern, Paint The Town Purple Chairperson and Jamey Murphy of Putnam Window Tint. They brought the idea to Lieut. John Dearman and Sgt. Michael Nagle of the Town of Carmel PBA who were enthusiastic of the new way to connect with the community.

“We have all been impacted by cancer and realize it is a tough journey,” said Dearman. “Decals on the squad cars may seem like a lighthearted action but the department has supported the cancer cause in a variety of ways through volunteerism and fundraising. “We are honored to participate and be part of the community that is embracing, supporting and celebrating those who endure a diagnosis.

The cost of materials and labor was donated by Putnam Window Tint and local retailers.

The vehicles will be on patrol through the month and will be showcased at Relay For Life on June 3, beginning at noon at Mahopac High School. For more information please visit: relayforlife.org/mahopacny

PHOTO/contributed