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Afton tourism board, Main Street outline 2026 events and volunteer needs for 'The Wall That Heals'
Summary
Tourism Director Lisa Grimsley and Julie Adams of Afton Main Street Alliance reported on website and social media efforts, upcoming events including a July 9–12 showing of 'The Wall That Heals' which will require more than 200 volunteers, and raised Main Street power and event-safety concerns.
Representatives of the Afton Main Street Alliance and the Tourism Board briefed the council on Dec. 9 about past promotions, upcoming events and operational needs for 2026, including volunteer requirements for a major veterans’ memorial exhibit.
Julie Adams, representing the Afton Main Street Alliance, summarized the group’s mission (promotions, design, economic vitality, organization), reported a strong turnout for Black Friday/Small Business Saturday and previewed Sip-Snack-Shop nights and a Freedom Festival itinerary. Adams told the council she is concerned about Main Street power supply at events and suggested considering a police presence to support safety.
Tourism Director Lisa Grimsley said Visit Afton’s website is in early development and social media management under Paige Alise has increased followers. The board used geofencing with SVI for event promotion and analytics; Parade of Lights had more than 30 entries. Grimsley said the Vietnam Veterans Memorial exhibit, known as "The Wall That Heals," is scheduled for July 9–12 in Afton and will require more than 200 volunteers, staffing 24/7 with three people on site at a time; Jay Conley is co-chair and a press release is planned for January.
Councilors acknowledged community needs for volunteer recruitment and cross-agency coordination. Residents interested in supporting events or volunteer coordination are directed to the tourism board when official sign-ups and press materials are released.
