Cornwall Ribfest 2020 proposal under health unit review

(Newswatch Group/Bill Kingston, File)

CORNWALL – The region’s medical officer of health says a proposal to run Cornwall Ribfest this summer “makes a bit of sense” and “it’s something we’re considering.“

Unlike other summer events which have been cancelled, the Optimist Club of Cornwall Ribfest is still scheduled for July 23-26 weekend in Lamoureux Park.

When asked by Cornwall Newswatch Wednesday afternoon, Dr. Paul Roumeliotis says they are reviewing a proposal from the club.

“We’re looking at their proposal. Obviously, you’re not going to have 40,000 people at Lamoureux Park. I think they have put a proposal together that, to me, makes a bit of sense.”

Roumeliotis added that he spoke today (Wednesday) with Cornwall Mayor Bernadette Clement about it and would be speaking with other stakeholders.

“Their proposal…is really simple – drive-through, pick up ribs and go home and watch a virtual concert. That’s what it is, really. From a public health point of view, I think it is manageable,” Roumeliotis told Newswatch.

He says they are in the process of discussing with the City of Cornwall about the traffic control implications.