My family moved here a little over a year ago. Last fall my parents visited us during Neewollah. They were amazed that such a fabulous celebration can be pulled off in a town of this size. They keep asking me how it is organized and put together.
Thank you for this information and this year they are coming back and bringing my sister and her three children.
 
Just Curious
 
 
Dear New Neewollah Fan,
 
First of all thank you for the kind words about this celebration. Now as far as the organization the first thing I have to give credit to is the unbelievable spirit and support of the town and surrounding communities. The literally hundreds of volunteers are the heart and soul of the festival. Every person who attends any of the many parts of it makes it successful.
 
Now for the formal organization you asked about. There is a Neewollah Board consisting of fifteen members. The members of the board are selected by the board based on their work on Neewollah, contributions to the community, individual abilities, and of course the desire to contribute to Neewollah. The terms are for three years and the members are restricted to three terms. The board tries for a cross section of the community. It is a responsibility that one should not seek but would accept if so asked. It is at times hard, contentious, frustrating but, yet, very fulfilling.
 
Leading the celebration is the Generalissimo. The Neewollah Board elects this individual. With one historical exception, this person has always been a member of the Neewollah Board when elected.  The Generalissimo has the responsibility of putting together the celebration for that particular year and is answerable to the board. He selects committee chairpersons and is involved in every aspect of the celebration. What does he get out of it? A "Past Generalissimo Shirt," tickets for his family to the events, and a great deal of personal satisfaction is the rewards for this person. I forgot to mention, the person serves a year as Generalissimo Elect in order to be better prepared for the responsibility.
 
I hope this answers your questions and I hope your family enjoys the celebration and continues to return each year.
  
Sincerely,
Drew Demo
Generalissimo   2007