NEWS RELEASE

For more information call: Ann Mort at (513) 649-4506/email Rmort@cinci.rr.com  or Florella Randall at 423-1877.

11/26/06

LIGHT UP MIDDLETOWN OFF TO A STRONG START

With 4,832 people arriving in 1,375 vehicles in the first two nights of operation, Light Up Middletown is off to a strong start for its 38 day run. The 2006 edition of the fantasy, drive- through light display added several embellishments to its animated exhibits including arches over the walking paths, small herds of deer and, the most popular, Santa and Mrs. Claus greeting children in their own Santa House on Friday and Saturday evenings. Santa and the missus posed with 88 children for photos and heard hundreds of wishes.  They will return each Friday and Saturday night until Christmas. Photos are available for a $5 donation to cover expenses.

Light Up Middletown, now in its eighth season, is open 5:30 to 9:30 pm every night, regardless of weather, including holidays, through New Year’s Eve. As vehicles enter the park, each driver is expected to make a donation—the amount, however, is up to that driver.

“Good weather seems to have brought out guests from a wider geographic area,” according to chairwoman Florella Randall.  Visitors are greeted as they enter the tunnel of lights and asked their county (or state) of residence. In 2005, the first two days, nearly 75% were from Butler County. In 2006 that number is 72% showing that a larger percentage are from farther away.  Total attendance this year is up 8% from the 2005 starting figures.

                                                                    ##########

Ann Mort
Public Relations
513-649-4506
RMort@cinci.rr.com