By EMILY WILSON
Special to Atmore News
Over the last couple weeks many have had questions about the future of Mayfest – one of the biggest and most beloved events every year in the Atmore area. The Chamber was proceeding with all aspects of Mayfest as scheduled with additional plans being made to follow extra safety precautions in accordance with CDC and ADPH guidelines, without a need for postponement.
On Thursday, March 26, the Board of Directors held their regularly scheduled meeting. With the continued uncertainty around the additional future impact of the coronavirus, the Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors discussed at length the future of the scheduled Miss Mayfest Pageant (April 25), Mayfest Softball Tournament (May 1 and May 2), and Mayfest (May 2).
Over the last several weeks the Chamber has been in regular contact with local, state, and federal health and emergency services professionals to determine the future of the festival along with any safety precautions needed to be in place for the health of everyone. However, with safety the top concern and as more information has been made available over the last two weeks, the Chamber needed to make an informed yet difficult decision.
After reviewing all the current guidance, it was decided the only option at this time is to postpone the event until further notice with a reassessment of guidance in two weeks on Thursday, April 9. At that time the Board of Directors will actively be looking at next steps regarding the future of this year’s festival, but we want to make clear that we are planning on holding the Mayfest Festival and all corresponding events but at a later date. Any new date for Mayfest and the corresponding events will be subject to any potential future requirements from the CDC and other local, state, and federal entities. While we anticipate one of the best Mayfest Festivals ever with lots of fun, great entertainment, and amazing food, we are committed to the safety of all.
Emily Wilson is executive director of the Atmore Area Chamber of Commerce.