How do we welcome new residents?

In the Madison area, we work hard every day to welcome our visitors and guests. Maybe you have your own story about Madison area hospitality to share.

Madison is also the only community I know that sets aside a whole day just to welcome its new residents and new college students. This year, that day will be Saturday, Sept. 6. The event is called "Community Welcome Day" and this year it will be held in shady Lytle Park, at the corner of West and Third streets. The hours are noon to 4 p.m.

Hanover College and Ivy Tech Community College both help organize this day, along with the City of Madison and other volunteers.

You can expect music, booths, food, even some 15-minute plays by Hanover College's Independent Theatre Company. Most of the community groups in town set up booths with giveaways and information about their organizations, so you can get involved. Many businesses take part too, adding to the festive atmosphere.

The festival will be located very close to the heart of Madison's downtown commercial district, in the hope that folks will take the opportunity to stroll to their favorite restaurants and businesses too.

Be sure to put Sept 6 on your calendar. We'll see you there!

By the way, if you are a new or prospective resident, you can request a relocation packet from the Madison Area Chamber of Commerce. Call (812) 265-3135, Ext. 221, or go to our website, http://www.madisonchamber.org.