Cass County courthouse to “Light It Up Blue”

By Bobby Horn Jr. Journal Staff During the week of March 30 through April 3, Cass County’s courthouse will turn blue. No, this is not a left-over April Fool’s Joke. Commissioners Court, on March 9, by unanimous consent approved a proclamation designating April 2, 2015 as “Light It Up Blue at the Cass County Courthouse Day.” Speaking to commissioners, Shirley Baker requested that the county extend the “Light It Up Blue” display from one day to five days. Baker, whose child is autistic, is chairman of Community HealthCorp. She said there are 41 people in Cass County who have been diagnosed with autism. During the week a program highlighting autism will also be held. “It (Light It Up Blue) really brings the group together,” Baker said. “It’s a lot of fun.” Cass County has participated in the observance for the past three years. County Judge Becky Wilbanks thanked Baker for her service to the county. Speaking of previous courthouse displays, she added. “The courthouse is beautiful when it is lit up.” “Light It Up Blue” is an international initiative created the organization Autism Speaks which spotlights World Autism Awareness Day. According to Autism Speaks, “World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD), celebrated each year on April 2, was adopted by the United Nations in 2007 to shine a bright light on autism as a growing global health crisis. Autism is one of only three health issues to be recognized with its own day by the United Nations. WAAD activities increase world knowledge of autism and impart information about the importance of early diagnosis and early intervention. Additionally, WAAD celebrates the unique talents and skills of persons with autism around the world.” Read the full story in the March 11 midweek edition of the Citizens Journal.