It's a lot of work, but we'd like to invite local groups - from clubs to neighborhood friends - to get involved in the upcoming Mighty Muskingum River Raft Race on Aug. 12.
The entry fee is $50 with nonprofit and private organizations paying $20 to participate. Proceeds will benefit the Friends of the Lower Muskingum River.
Racing, a loosely used term to describe past events, comes in all sorts of watercraft. Creations in the past have included all sorts of rafts, a space shuttle, a dragon and an outhouse. Obviously, creativity is a big part of the day.
The raft event dates back to the 1970s, when the Marietta Jaycees sponsored the event that sometimes drew more than 100 rafts. The current editions of the race have drawn much smaller numbers. We hope there are more people out there willing to get involved and help the Friends of the Lower Muskingum River.
There's always that fun factor, too. If more entries participate, the race is likely to be more fun to watch from the riverbanks.
Rafts that pass a required safety inspection will shove off at 1 p.m. Aug. 12 at the Indian Acres ramp. The finish line is at the Harmar Railroad Bridge.
Good luck to everyone who participates. It should be lots of fun. Here's how to get involved: For information, rules and registration: 374-4170, muskingumriver.org or www.facebook.com/pages/Friends-of-Lower-Muskingum-River/196229222749.
