By MARK CONSTANCE
ROSCOMMON – Water. Sun. Music. Isn’t that what Summer is about?
Bring the family down to Wallace Park for Roscommon Riverfest on Sunday, July 14.The park is situated on the bank of the South Branch of the AuSable River at the North end of Roscommon on M-18.
Dock dogs
The event starts at 10 a.m. with “dock dogs.” A community favorite, dogs of all persuasions and sizes are invited to participate. Although most of the dogs choose not to jump, the ones that do put on quite the show for the crowd. Winners receive a “dog bone” trophy created by Woods ‘n Goods of Roscommon, and every critter will get a dog treat.
Fly tying / Kids’ games
Shortly afterward, Mark Rais of the Mason-Griffith Chapter of Trout Unlimited will help everyone learn how to tie a fly. Be sure to stop by and try your hand at what could become a life-long hobby. During the day, there will be various other kids’ games such as corn hole, rub on tattoos, a bouncy house for the “young ones” and much more.
Cardboard boat race
At noon is the world-famous “Great AuSable Cardboard Boat Race.” The committee will have limited amounts of cardboard available, so bring as much as you can. The only material that can be used in boat construction is non-coated cardboard and duct tape.
All youths (17 and under) need to wear a life jacket, and an adult will need to be in the water with the kids when they launch. If you have your own life jacket, please bring it along. Otherwise, Campbell Canoe Livery is loaning the Riverfest Committee enough jackets to ensure the event is safe for everyone.
Rotary duck race
Wrapping up the day at 2 p.m. is the Roscommon Rotary Great AuSable Duck Race.
In the club’s final fund raiser of the year, hundreds of plastic ducks will be poured into the river from the bridge above the park where they will float to the finish line. Heat winners receive $50 and the first prize duck wins $1,000. Proceeds will go toward the club’s community service projects.
Live music
Playing at Roscommon Riverfest for the first time this year is Mio Bischoff.
Originally from Midland, Bischoff is an aspiring 24-year-old singer-songwriter. See her bio at Mio Bischoff
