Blue light bulbs, ribbons collected to support Richland police

You might notice neighborhoods in Richland looking a little blue on Sundays, but not because Monday’s coming.

It’s in honor of police officers.

Members of the Richland Seniors Association and several other organizations have sponsored a giveaway of at least 1,000 blue light bulbs and 500 ribbons for anyone who wants to show their support for local law enforcement.

The group will hand them out starting with ceremonies at 10 a.m. Oct. 28 at the Richland community center, 500 Amon Park Rd. North, and the Richland Police Department, 871 George Washington Way.

Residents can donate blue light bulbs as well, or purchase their own if they want to show support.

“This is a way for us to say thanks,” said Phil Lemley, a Richland councilman who’s helping to organize a blue light bulb and ribbon campaign.

Richland resident and seniors association member John Butterfield approached Lemley with an idea to collect the light bulbs and ribbons for residents who want to help out.

Money raised came from Windermere Realty, the Richland Seniors Association, the Richland Rotary Club, and the Local 598 Plumbers and Pipe Fitters Union in Pasco.

The campaign plans to ask anyone with blue lights outside or in their homes to turn them on from dusk to about midnight every Sunday night. Butterfield and Lemley would like to see Kennewick and Pasco participate in the future.

“We’re hoping that this resonates with other communities here in the Tri-Cities,” Lemley said.

Pasco Councilman Al Yenney has already approached Lemley about starting a similar campaign in that city, Lemley said.

Blue light bulbs and ribbons will remain available at the Richland police station and community center after the launching ceremony. Anyone can pick up or donate more.

This story was originally published October 26, 2016 at 6:17 PM with the headline "Blue light bulbs, ribbons collected to support Richland police."