A countywide call is being sent to all civic groups, organizations and churches for a massive three-day festival centered around the Andalusia Junior Women’s Club’s Three Notch Market in May.

Held the first Saturday in May, the 3NM features arts and crafts, a 5K and all-day entertainment.

Rotarian Curtis Simpson said the idea for a joint fundraising effort came when he began looking for ways to raise additional money for the Andalusia Rotary Club. Over the years, he said, participation in the club’s annual World Championship Domino Tournament has decreased – meaning a lack of revenue for the group’s community service projects.

“When I got to thinking, it kind of snowballed,” Simpson said as he addressed those gathering at the Andalusia Chamber of Commerce’s breakfast event sponsored by WFXX, FOX 107. “I thought how much better it would be if we did a three-day event that would give all civic groups a chance to raise money? Plus think about what a boon it would be for area businesses with all those people in town.”

Simpson said the project has received “the blessing” from Andalusia Mayor Earl Johnson, and now the search is on to get participating groups. The goal is to implement the new un-named festival in May 2014.

“The Three Notch Market brings a lot of people to the city,” Simpson said. “Wouldn’t it be great if we could have that kind of draw over three days? The thought is to get a headline name concert here on that Saturday. We don’t want to do anything that will compete with Three Notch Market. We’re looking for out-of-the-box fundraisers. Not car washes and yard sales. Things like an air show, a hot air balloon race – things like that.”

For their “out-of-the-box” fundraiser, Simpson hopes the Rotarians will host “L.A. Idol,” a singing contest nearly identical to the TV show “American Idol.”

“With the winner – contract permitting – opening for the big name on Saturday night,” Simpson said. “And who knows, maybe a recording contract.”

Simpson said it would be up to the individual clubs and groups to sell concert tickets. That money would go into a general pool and be divided up among all the clubs. Monies raised by club fundraisers goes directly to the club.

“Then, that money is used to help people right here in Covington County,” Simpson said.

Ashley Eiland, executive vice president of the Andalusia Chamber of Commerce and AJWC member, called the project “a collaborative effort.”

Those with questions are asked to contact Simpson at 334.488.4303.

Groups interested in participating in the event are invited to a committee meeting. The meeting date will be announced later; however, Simpson said it will be held by the month’s end.