The "M" on Box Springs Mountain will be illuminated blue from dusk until midnight tonight in recognition of Stevens-Johnson Syndrome Awareness Month. Stevens-Johnson syndrome is an adverse drug reaction which results in nearly 800,000 injuries and deaths each year.
Almost any drug, including over-the-counter medication, can result in Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Complications can include permanent blindness, lung damage, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
“People across the world will be wearing blue today in recognition of Stevens-Johnson syndrome," said Mayor Yxstian Gutierrez. "Moreno Valley is lighting the M blue in support of those who are affected by such a devastating syndrome."
City Hall's LED lighting system on Box Springs Mountain for the 'M' is designed to enhance local events and provide a source of civic unity and pride. The default color will be white.
Lighting the ‘M’ promotes the City, its civic institutions, state and federal holidays, and other public events of community significance and times of celebration. The City may accept community requests for special lighting to recognize a specific cause or to commemorate or enhance a specific event. Non-profit and charitable organizations can request that the 'M' be illuminated in specific colors to elevate awareness of their cause.
Priority in choosing colors for the lights will be given to promoting events that celebrate the City, its civic institutions, City recognized holidays, public events and festivals. Requests to change the color or pattern of the 'M’s' decorative lights will be accommodated as dates are available. The City reserves the right to deny or modify requests.
Moreno Valley Utility, which serves nearly 6,000 residential and commercial electricity customers across the City, sponsors the lighting of the "M."
For more information, to see the lighting schedule or to submit a request please visit the City's website.