RIVERFEST OFFERS NUMBER OF ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN

On both days of Riverfest, carnival rides will operate at Main and Independence. Above, Mary Beth Morgan and her son, Aaron, both of Benton, enjoyed a ride on the Scrambler last year.

There will be even more for children to see and do at Riverfest '93.

Youngsters may participate in arts, crafts and games on the south Common Pleas Courthouse parking lot from 4-7 p.m. on Friday and again from noon-7 p.m. on Saturday, said Chris Qualls, Children's Activities chairman.

"With the way we're setting up, the children can participate in hands-on crafts all day long," Qualls said. "Parents can leave their children to do crafts and then go enjoy Riverfest or they can come and rest while the children are busy with the crafts."

Another activity is a special program about French heritage at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Friday and 1, 4 and 6 p.m. on Saturday.

"We wanted to stick to the bicentennial theme so we decided to have a French storyteller," Qualls said.

"Pierre `Pete' Boyer will tell of the French history, do an authentic Broom Dance and dress to the part of French heritage.

"While at Riverfest, he will not be speaking directly on the history of Cape, but the stories he tells are about the traditional French heritage. He will show what the French heritage was and what the people who settled here may have been like."

Boyer is a nationally known musician, folklorist and storyteller from Potosi. The 83-year-old's instrumental capabilities include the folk fiddle, harmonica and lap steel guitar.

"I think Boyer will be a big draw with all of his talents," Qualls said.

Children and adults alike can also enjoy the sleight of hand displayed by Cape Girardeau magician Bill Coomer. Coomer will mingle with Riverfest crowds and entertain them with his magic from 5:30- 9:30 p.m. both days of the event.

Also on both days of Riverfest, carnival rides will operate at Main and Independence.

The children can also take part in the annual Riverfest Turtle Race, which will be held at 3 p.m. on the south Common Pleas Courthouse parking lot.

The Best Dressed Turtle Contest will follow the race at 3:30 p.m.