Dear Past General,   First of all, October is my favorite month with the cooler weather, the pretty colors, but most of all Neewollah. I feel so blessed living in a community like this that can provide such a wonderful experience. Congratulations to you and to your workers. My mother-in-law was asking about the planning and organization. I have read a few things but I would like to give her a better answer. Could you give some backgrounds?   Thank you, Inquisitive Son-in-Law Dear Son-in-Law,   Thank you for such a nice compliment and perceptive question. One of my goals this year was to increase the public's knowledge of Neewollah. Actually the planning for Neewollah next year began in one sense about a year ago with the selection of Lea Shepard as Generalissimo-elect.   Now, in just a few weeks, Lea Shepard will start the process of selecting committee heads, choosing shows, and all the other endless details. But she will not be a one-person show. Neewollah is actually governed by the Neewollah Board of Directors. This group consists of 15 people who have rotating terms and term limits. The board also sets the budget and each committee operates on a budget. The actual budget figure is based upon the last three years Neewollah celebrations financial status. The organization tries to keep enough carry-over to finance things like the new banners and to cushion a time when, because of weather or other circumstances, its financial position is not as strong.   However, having just been in charge of the celebration and having worked in various responsibilities during most of my adult life, I cannot finish the celebration without recognizing the 500+ volunteers. Yes, I got to ride in the parade and receive the applause but without the volunteers who give so freely of their time, talents, support, and money, Neewollah simply would not be possible. If I lived in the perfect world I would individually thank every person who helped me. However, sometimes a blanket, and heart-felt, thank you has to suffice.   So next year, as you sit on a brisk fall day, blanket on your lap, with the smell of the food stands and the sounds of the approaching bands, please remember Neewollah is Independence but also the Independence area is Neewollah.   Thank you for your letter and thank you Independence, and thank you to all who helped. Ann W. Crow Generalissimo 2005