In 1973, when a small group of Nederland residents heard there was going to be no Olde Time Fiddle Contest, they went to Mayor Doctor—yup, that was his name—to ask why and he said because no one stepped up to sell ads for a flier and no one had organized it. The group volunteered, went into action and soon got the word out to radio stations all over the country.

One member of the group managed to score a Chautauqua tent and a sound system. Fiddlers signed up to compete, judges appeared, and everything fell into place. The tent was put up where the shopping center now is. Hundreds of people came to town. The fiddle contest was a success; but it was the last one. Old time residents said there were too many hippies in town, too much noise, too much beer, too much of everything, including fun.

It has been 16 years since Michigan Mike introduced the idea of a Nederland Music Festival to the Nederland Board of Trustees; at first it was a controversial issue, and some people still think it is. The festival has had setbacks but it has always pulled through the hard times and the show went on. It is now one of the largest Nederland events, the biggest summer event, and many newcomers can't remember when NedFest wasn't.

This year's bands are better than ever, including one with Nederland youth at 1 p.m. on Sunday. It is a time for families to spread a blanket on the ground, have a picnic, dance, swing their children through the air, watch them twirl a hula hoop, take a nap, laugh at the rain, clap and cheer for musicians.

Volunteer security personnel will be at the ballfield keeping alcohol from going in or coming out of the area. Nederland police officers and Boulder County  Sheriff's deputies will be around to keep the peace. For two days and one night, our town will be filled with people and music. Relax, Ned residents. Sit back and enjoy a once-a-year event.

Welcome our guests even if they are hippies or skaters or business persons in tie-dyed clothes or students or your neighbors. It is all about the musicians, the instruments, the voices, and each other. It is a time to recognize that NedFest has proven itself for 16 years and is here to stay.