I can still remember the day I found out about the International Wizard of Oz Club. I had found a couple of the beautiful Oz figures by Dave Grossman in Atlantic City while vacationing with the gals. In my quest to find more I soon made several contacts. My hunt had started with calling the Dave Grossman Company who, in turn, gave me several numbers for retail stores. Luck was with me when I reached Elaine Willingham from Beyond the Rainbow.  She did not have any of the figures but not only added me to her mailing list but gave me the address of the International Wizard of Oz Club. 

How I looked forward to the publications from Beyond the Rainbow and IWOC. News, updates, stories, exchanges with members and most of all friendships began to form.

When I started my business I as a doll dealer I focused on story or movie theme dolls and easily added the figures, ornaments and other collectibles. I started my Oz line with old and new items and focused on helping the collector find the missing pieces. I never forgot the help that was extended to me by new friends. I kept lists of folks willing to trade and their want lists.

I also met great friends like Dave Kempel who encouraged me to attend my first Wizard of Oz Convention in Delaware. There I met great writers like Bill Stillman and Jay Scarfone as well as talented artists like Dave Kelleher. My first Oz festival attendance left me in awe for weeks. Anticipation to join my Oz friends at festivals and conventions grew yearly. I had exchanged correspondence with Fred Meyer more than a couple times before I had the opportunity to meet that kind man. His love of Oz and knowledge was strong and steadfast. 

Many friendships have developed from meeting folks at events and sharing our mutual love of Oz. I am grateful for the IWOC for continuing to promote talented artists and writers in this fabulous club and I am glad to be a member. Promoting the club is a joy afforded to me as membership chairman.  Karen Owens

Karen is the face of the Oz Club to countless members. She travels the country attending Oz events promoting her business and the Oz Club. Find an Oz Club booth at any public Oz gathering, and nine times out of ten, you just found Karen.

Karen Owens