By By JESSICA SIEFF / Niles Daily Star
NILES – The theme for the annual 2008 Niles Riverfest 'Anything That Floats' race has been determined.
This year's theme is: The Great Outdoors.
The race, which takes place Saturday, Aug. 2 at 2 p.m., is being sponsored by the Niles Boy Scout Troop 550. This will be the third time the troop has sponsored the event.
Those planning on participating for the event should get their entry forms in, "the sooner the better," said Tom Majerek, event coordinator.
Rob Dunnuck, who is the contact for the race this year estimates 20 rafts have already been rented out and says people shouldn't wait too long. The deadline for entry is July 30.
There is an entry fee of $75 per raft. And, "we have rafts for rent!" Majerek added. It's $75 to rent a raft and a $25 deposit is required for using provided rafts, which is refundable dependent upon the condition of the raft once it's returned.
Decoration will start Friday, Aug. 1 from noon to 9 p.m. at the Riverfront Park Boat Ramp. Contestants can meet each other, build and decorate their raft. And the fun will continue on Saturday during check-in and registration.
Following the race at the Riverfront Amphitheater that night at 7 p.m., will be awards for each raft. Categories for awards have included that for the most creative raft, best of show, best built raft, slowest raft and even – "raft only a mother could love."
The 'Anything That Floats' race is just one of the highlights of the annual Niles Riverfest which features live music, entertainment, arts, crafts food and fun. To learn more or to download a brochure and entry form for the 'Anything That Floats' race, visit www.nilesriverfest.net.