NATCHEZ &045; A crepe myrtle festival in November? Why not, organizers said, pointing out that it’s a good month to plant the flowering trees that bloom all summer long in Natchez.

In truth, organizers had hoped to have the festival at the end of summer, said volunteer Eric Glatzer.

&uot;When I saw how soon they were trying to do it, I told them they needed more time,&uot; Glatzer said. &uot;The Natchez Crepe Myrtle Festival is set for Labor Day weekend next year.&uot;

Getting a new festival started in Natchez is not always easy, said Glatzer, who organized the Natchez Blues Festival nine years ago. Glatzer and others were glad to step up and help Jim Rourke, owner of Uniquely Natchez on Main Street and founder of Concerned Citizens for Natchez Tourism, who came up with the idea for the festival.

&uot;I was inspired by the dedication of the individuals who were willing to make this happen,&uot; Glatzer said. &uot;It’s well rounded and a good way to get families involved in downtown.&uot;

Matilda Stephens, also a volunteer for the festival, said she came to the group late but liked the idea of doing things that would help the community. She likes the idea of revitalizing downtown, even if for a day.

&uot;I remember when I was growing up, gong to the Ritz, the Baker Grand (for movies). Downtown was the center of all activity,&uot; Stephens said. &uot;It takes people who have different visions and new ideas joining with people who have a history in Natchez to make these things happen.&uot;

Glatzer also credited Walter Tipton, city tourism director, with helping the group to succeed. &uot;All along, he has been encouraging and helpful. He has steered us along,&uot; he said. &uot;Everyone has to work together to make things happen.&uot;