Our Generalissimo

"Treat Every Day Like Neewollah"

Welcome to Neewollah 2024! There are 9 days in October when Independence sheds its ordinary, yet wonder, small-town demeanor and turns into a place where lifetime memories are made. As we gather for this extraordinary event, I am filled with the anticipation and excitement that arrives with living in Independence, KS during the month of October. Neewollah spreads that euphoric joy and wonder to all who attend.

I believe Neewollah is about creating memories with family and friends, while embracing that sweet, nostalgic feeling from our childhood. When choosing this year's theme, I wanted something that captured just that. Treat Every Day Like Neewollah embodies the sense of community pride and excitement that comes with the largest annual festival in Kansas.

This year, we're thrilled to kick off the festivities with "ELF: The Musical," a delightful production directed by award winning actor and director, Paul Molnar. This family friendly-show is sure to have everyone laughing and embracing the holiday spirit. We then race into the weekend with the 5k/10k and Fun Runs, followed by the fan favorite Chili Cook-Off. Prepare to cheer on our candidates as they perform their talents on night one, and as we crown Queen Neelah the LXXXIII at Coronation the following evening. As the week progresses, enjoy a multitude of events including the carnival, food stands, & bandstand. Come enjoy a laugh at the Doo-Dah parade followed by a Dueling Pianos Show! Wrap up the week with the always adorable Kiddie parade, and end it with a bang on Saturday by watching the spectacular Grand Parade and an electrifying concert featuring country music star Tyler Farr. These events are just a part of what makes Neewollah an unforgettable experience.

Finally, I want to express my gratitude to all the sponsors and volunteers that make this festival possible. I am truly honored to serve as your 2024 Generalissimo. Thank you and as Buddy would say about Neewollah, I'm in Love, I'm in Love and I don't care who knows it!

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Lauren Ysusi is an Independence native and a proud graduate of Independence High School. Ysusi graduated from the University of Kansas and she, along with her husband Matt moved back to make Independence their home. They have 2 young children; a son Bodie and daughter Bryce who keep their lives exciting and fast paced.

Lauren's connection to Neewollah began during her high school years when she was selected as a 2004 Neelah Deb and participated in Queen Neelah in 2006 receiving Miss Congeniality recognition. Currently serving her 6th year on the Neewollah board, Lauren has held the positions of compliance chair and secretary. Beyond her board responsibilities, Lauren has participated in various capacities and events, including Queen's Director, merchandise, sponsorship, carnival, and musical props.

Lauren works as a Senior Branch Office Administrator for Edward Jones-Gregg Webster, having served in several leadership positions including event coordinator and team leader for the branch office administrators for her region. Lauren stays active in her church and has served as a youth group leader, member of Altar Society and Parish Council at St. Andrew's Catholic Church.

In her spare time, she enjoys playing with her kids, hanging out with friends and family, and soaking up our sweet town of Independence and all it has to offer.