By Gloria Austin
Staff Writer
Don’t be alarmed, but a blue aura could possibly light up the night sky on Tuesday, April 2. It is not so much of a scientific phenomenon, as it is an observable occurrence.
April 2 is World Autism Awareness Day.
Autism Speaks, a national organization, launched the “Light It Up Blue” campaign nearly four years ago. The movement invites business and home owners to show their support of autism by changing their regular white bulb to a blue light.
Jacquie Morse, whose oldest son Dominic is autistic, is trying to start a “Light It Up Blue” promotion in the greater Houlton area.
“Our family goal is to have 15 businesses and 25 homes change their lights blue to show support of autism,” Morse said. “However, just because we are concentrating on Houlton doesn’t mean I don’t want the rest of Maine (and beyond) participating.”
Last year, more than 3,000 iconic building and landmarks in over 50 countries on six continents turned their lights blue.
“How is that for popularity,” Morse said.
To participate is as simple as replacing your outdoor lights from white to blue ones or wearing blue clothing that day. Morse noted people should Tweet about the event and/or change their Facebook profile photo to the “Light It Up Blue” logo.
“We have reached out to our local media outlets: Bangor Daily News, WHOU-FM and the Houlton Pioneer Times to help us spread the word,” explained Morse. “I am pleased to share that all three companies have been excited to help. WHOU-FM has been a giant help in coordinating the event. All the support has been such a blessing and makes me very proud to call Houlton my hometown.”
Morse has purchased blue bulbs and other items to help Houlton “Light It Up Blue.”
“I am selling bulbs not only at a discounted price, but 60 percent of the proceeds will be donated to the Autism Society of Maine,” added Morse.
To get light bulbs from Morse swing by Bowers Funeral Home, 10 Water St., Houlton; call 532-3333 or e-mail beemorsefarm@gmail.com.
Home Depot has also linked up with Autism Speaks and sells blue light bulbs, as well as Coleman lanterns. Most Walmarts carry blue party lights.
To purchase other items, visit “Light It Up Blue” for their official merchandise. T-shirts, pins and other autism merchandise will be sold, with 20 percent of the proceeds going to the Autism Society of Maine.
