Letter to Editor: 2013 Lakeside Festival a Success

Letter to the Editor: From Ron Russell, Lakeside Legacy Foundation Board of Directors and Lakeside Fest Chairman.

Every year people from all over gather at the Lakeside Legacy Arts Park and Historic Dole Mansion to participate in what has become a true community tradition at the Lakeside Festival.

There are rides, games, music and fun for all ages. The Lakeside Festival has been voted Best Festival by Shaw Media for three-years running.

I am honored to serve as the Chairman of this Festival, and an event like this cannot succeed without the support of many. Lakeside Legacy Foundation is a non-for-profit, which for eleven years, has aimed to preserve our community history while providing a home for our community's arts and music.

The proceeds of Lakeside Festival provide vital funding to support these diverse programs and events. We at Lakeside express our gratitude for all of the support we received from our sponsors, volunteers, neighbors, community partners, and fest attendees.

A special thanks to our new partnership with the Crystal Lake Young Professionals for their service in the beverage tent. From the beginning, the Crystal Lake City Council and Mayor support our Festival as an important part of our community heritage.

Additionally, the city's police, firemen,  Public Works Department, the Crystal Lake Park District and the village of Lakewood keep the festival safe and fun.

Finally, a special thanks to the city of Crystal Lake for the spectacular fireworks, and to the Chamber of Commerce and the Lions Club for a fabulous parade.

We are truly thankful to everyone who made this year's Lakeside Festival a success.