March 13. By Dave Yochum. Chris Boukedes, the operator of Galway Hooker, has called off tomorrow’s St. Patrick’s Day observance at Kenton Place. It was to have started at noon and would likely have attracted thousands of people.

County and state officials expressed profound concerns about holding the event in the midst of a global pandemic.  Mecklenburg County will declare a county-wide State of Emergency due to the fast-spreading virus.

Mayor Woody Washam earlier said the town had no powers to stop the event which attracts thousands of revelers every year for not just a party but vendor booths, music and children’s activities.

Boukedes had told Cornelius Today he was moving forward with the event, based on long-standing traditions, the fellowship provided to the community and positive feedback during the past two days.

Earlier today he said people can choose not to attend.

But the global coronavirus has churches, major corporations and major sporting tournaments cancelling events or taking them online.

Gov. Cooper, declaring a state of emergency earlier this week, recommends that organizers of events that draw more than 100 people should cancel, postpone, modify these events or offer online streaming services.

NC Rep. Clark

These events include large gatherings where people are in close contact for example concerts, conferences, sporting events, faith-based events and other large gatherings.

“Businesses should heed the recommendations of Gov. Cooper and NC Dept. of Health and Human Services,” NC Rep. Christy Clark said.

“The choices we make today to prevent community spread could save the lives of our neighbors in the at-risk groups,” Clark added.

Boukedes obviously had thousands of dollars invested in the event. A new date has not been set.

County Commissioner Pat Cotham, who discussed the situation with County Manager Dena Dorio, said she was relieved the event was called off.

COTHAM

“I look forward to attending the rescheduled famous St. Patrick’s Day event at Galway Hooker,” she said.