As locals headed for the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth amphitheater on July 30, they were greeted by purple and green Mardi Gras beads, young faces painted with Wonder Woman’s gold crown and brown leopard spots, and candy apple red Ford trucks.

The amphitheater was the hub for the Concert on the Green 2016. Hosted by the Dartmouth Police Relief Association, the event includes a classic car cruise-in, raffles, dunk-a-cop, and a concert.

Richard Medeiros, president of the relief association, said it's a lot of work for an event that will only bring in about $1,500, and that number doesn't include what they have to pay out for police officers, facility staffing, and utilities.

"It's almost a wash," said Medeiros, "but you get there and you see all the kids with their faces painted [for free], and it's worth it. It's a good time."

The relief association started a Chinese auction this year, and volunteers sell ice cream and popcorn to help offset costs. Some of that money raised will go towards the three or four scholarships the association provides to graduating high school seniors, said Medeiros.

Despite the family fun—which evolved from a policeman's ball 14 years ago—this year's event was shaded by more serious events across the country.

A voice rang above the arena as the sun fell and attendees awaited the main act—Crazy on You: a tribute to Heart.

“Blue lives matter! Blue lives matter!”

“Yeah, we’ll clap for that,” said Dartmouth officer Joe Vieira who was addressing the crowd at that time. “We’re not going to get political up here. We like to apply some common sense. We’re fortunate to live in an area where most of our people are reasonable.”

Vieira recognized both the heads of the Dartmouth Police Department and community members for their support—cards and gifts have flooded into the police station following attacks in Dallas and Baton Rouge.

“We really appreciate all the support from the community as we drive around. You put blue lights out on your porches, in your garage; some of you may hang them in the windows of your houses. [The Dartmouth Police] really appreciate that you’re really thinking about them and you’ve got their back,” said Vieira, referencing a community movement to show support for police officers by placing blue lights around your property.