February 9, 2009

NEWS RELEASE
Helping Services for Northeast Iowa – www.helpingservices.org

Holiday Lights Increased Profits, Fewer Nights
Holiday Lights, Magical Nights proved to have a successful 2008 season.  Helping Services for Northeast Iowa Director Dave Runyon reports that $30,000 will be transferred to agency programs for prevention in areas of substance abuse, domestic violence, child abuse, and mentoring. 
The change to a free-will offering encouraged more visitors to attend in 2008.  Traffic was up 16%, even though nights open were reduced this past year. Fewer nights also resulted in a marked decrease in the electric bill. 
The Holiday Lights 2008 promotions were a success.  Over 1300 Holiday CDs were purchased. Children as well as adults enjoyed the book giveaways from Bookends and Beans, Luther Bookshop, Oneota Coop, Once Upon A Time, and the Master's Touch.  Three $200 grocery giveaways from area businesses were given to Tony Bellar, Carpentersville Ill (WalMart), Ann Fjelstul, Decorah (Quillins), and Kevin Ellingson, Decorah (Fareway).  Two of the recipients chose to donate their prizes to families in need.
The public continues to overwhelmingly support Holiday Lights.  Over 182 community members contributed to the event including setup, working HLMN, and covering numerous details.  Helping Services especially acknowledges event sponsors, City of Decorah employees, and Pulpit Rock Campground who without their assistance, this event could not be possible.

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