Wanted: Name, Place, Volunteer

Expect word soon from the Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce about a new annual summer festival. We don’t know the name or the location, but then, we’re told, neither does anyone else because organizational discussions haven’t even begun.

There is, however, a definite date for the new event: July 10-12, chosen for several reasons, including being able to schedule Kansas City barbecue experts for a cookoff. Also, there’s no competition from festivals in other cities that weekend, and the weather is more likely to be fair and sunny than during, say, fall or spring.

Fayetteville chamber directors decided last fall to drop administration of Autumnfest, a popular event but one attended primarily by local residents. Instead, the board opted to build another event, one they hope will draw visitors — and the cash they spend — from outside the region.

One thing’s definite besides the dates: the festival won’t be held downtown. Not that the square is unpleasant; it’s just that the location is apparently too small for what organizers hope will become a huge summer festival.