News Release

Fantasy of Lights 2006: “An Old World Christmas”

Each year, for the past 16 years, Mercy has held a Fantasy of Lights in Clinton. This event, drawing 2,000-3,000 spectators, has raised more than $390,000 to improve health care for our residents in Clinton and Jackson counties in Iowa and Whiteside and Carroll counties in Illinois. Some of the equipment purchased has included dialysis equipment, Lifeline units, emergency room equipment, a fetal ultrasound monitor, and a CT Scanner as well as provided more than $350,000 in scholarships for our young people.

The event this year will be held at the Tuscany Room at Rastrelli’s Restaurant in Clinton, Iowa on November 17 through November 20. The public is welcome to stop in and see the display of Christmas trees, wreaths, stockings, centerpieces, baskets, swags, wall hangings, ornaments, and celebrity trees. The gala and auction will be the kick-off on Friday, November 17. This event is sponsored by Juanita Byrns. The auction is sponsored by Medical Associates and Ruhl & Ruhl Realtors. Please call the Foundation for reservations.

On Saturday, November 18, Children’s Fantasy of Christmas will run from 10:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.. Come and meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus and have your picture taken with them. The Clinton Library will entertain the children by reading a story and having a puppet show. The Discovery Center will do face painting, and the kids will decorate cookies. This event is sponsored by Aegis Credit Union. Tickets are available at the Foundation and the cost of tickets are $5. Saturday evening will be the Teen Dance sponsored by Dr. Michael A. Callan.

On Sunday, November 19, Brunch will be served from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tickets are available at the Foundation or at the door. Cost of tickets for adults are $10. For children twelve and under tickets are $6. This event is sponsored by Howes and Jefferies Realtors. Also, on Sunday evening there will be a Teen Dance sponsored by Dr. Michael A. Callan.
On Monday, November 20, the Luncheon will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Great food and entertainment will be provided. Costs of tickets are $15. The Luncheon is sponsored by Bemis Clysar, Inc.

This year you will have a chance to win an Isabelle Bloom figure, “Nativity Set.” Vicky Johnson of The East Village Isabelle Bloom generously donated the figure. Isabelle Bloom tickets are available from the Foundation office. Please call Theresa at 563-244-3535. Tickets are $1 each.