“Being able to unite the community is on everyone’s Christmas list this year,” said Lawrence Police Officer Jamon Jack. “This is our way of helping to do that.”
Officer Jack is talking about the “Caroling Cops” — five reserve officers with the City of Lawrence who have volunteered their time and effort to create a singing group that will serenade shoppers, seniors, and school children this year throughout the Lawrence area. The Caroling Cops — Jamon Jack, Diane Mack, Steven Fishburn, Eric Trost, and Brian Robertson — joined together earlier this year for National Night Out events, and thought it would be a great idea for the holiday season.
Jack is the organizer, spearheading the effort. He was involved in a multi-jurisdictional police singing group in 1997 that gained national attention, even going so far as performing on the “Rosie O’Donnell Show.” While the original group disbanded, he loved the idea and wanted to bring it back.
They debuted November 23 in front of media outlets across the city, and performed at the Lawrence Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting ceremony on November 26. They also will be appearing in “flashsongs” at local businesses, schools, senior communities, and street corners. Expect some pop-up performances throughout the community as well.
Jack said that they have been delighted at the response they get from their performances. “People start singing along with us. Music breaks down the walls between people.”
He also stressed that the Caroling Cops are an all-volunteer group, who rehearse and perform on their own time. “Their hearts are in this community,” he said. “This is a way of giving back.”
It is also a way for the community to see police in a whole different light, spreading the holiday spirit in unexpected places. The group has a special quest to bring smiles to the faces of children, in particular. “Christmas, and the holidays, is really about the children. A kid’s smile transcends everything.”
Jack also noted that bringing people together through song provides common ground for communication between the public and the police. “This is important to do. It sends a positive message and allows people to see into the heart of the messengers.”
The Caroling Cops may be booked for community gatherings through the Lawrence Police Department by calling 317-549-6404, or on the LPD’s Facebook page. You can also check out their video on their Facebook page. And keep an eye peeled for them while you’re taking care of your holiday shopping in the Lawrence area!
