It is exciting that the Wizard of Oz Festival is coming back to Chesterton this year! How nostalgic to return the festival to Chesterton.

And what a fitting theme "There's No Place Like Home." It could not be happening at a better time for our community. There was an economic downturn 28 years ago in this region when the festival began, and it gave people hope and joy at an otherwise depressing time. We find ourselves in similar economic circumstances in 2009.

Now, with the festival under the umbrella of the Duneland Business Initiative Group, this year's festival is coming together as the best Oz Festival ever. New events like the Oz of Cakes cake decorating contest and a scarecrow building contest promise to deliver fun for young and old alike. As before, there will be a parade and food and craft booths in town. There is even going to be a red carpet premiere event and a pre-festival Emerald City Masquerade Ball!

The new group is comprised of some great spirited, community-minded folks who are working tirelessly to make this year's Oz Festival something that the Duneland community can be proud of.

I urge anyone who would like to volunteer or just to find out more about this exciting event to check out the http://ozfestivalchesterton.com

- Laura Nelson, Liberty Township