John Popper, “Real Housewives” Jacqueline Laurita to Host Autism Gala

Autism awareness gets some new faces in Aspen this weekend with Blues Traveler frontman John Popper and “Real Housewives of New Jersey” star Jacqueline Laurita as celebrity guests for the Light It Up Blue Aspen gala on Feb. 16. In its third year, the event benefits local nonprofit Extreme Sports Camp for Autism and national nonprofit Autism Speaks.

The party’s entertainment features Popper’s band Brother’s Keeper, whose Aspen lineup includes Jono Manson on vocals and guitar, Michael Jude on vocals and bass, John Michel on drums and vocals, and singer-guitarist Scott Rednor and guitarist Rob Eaton, Jr.

Laurita has been active in the autism community since her youngest son was diagnosed with autism in the summer 2012. She will be joined as voice for the neurobiological disorder by Ari and Andrea Lee Greenburg. Ari Greenburg is a partner talent agency WME. Their son was diagnosed with autism when he was 20 months old.

April is Autism Awareness Month, and the Light It Up Blue gala kicks off Autism Speaks’ national efforts two months early. Tickets to the event are $250/person. The party will also feature a wireless live auction. It starts at 6 p.m. For more information, visit Light It Up Blue Aspen.