RIVERFEST PROVIDES CHANCE TO PAY TRIBUTE TO RIVER

The mighty Mississippi River: It is linked inexplicably to Cape Girardeau from its very start. The town was founded as a trading post near the river's edge. The river provided ample access the post for traders, travelers and Indians.

So it seems fitting that each year the community and region pay tribute to the river -- that mighty river that gave birth to thriving communities along its muddy banks.

Today marks the start of the 1997 Riverfest. Since 1979, the celebration has drawn thousands of people to the river and downtown Cape Girardeau for a rousing family celebration.

The river, which can be a valued friend or a mighty foe, is cooperating for this year's celebration. The floodgates will remain open so festival-goers can enjoy the view. In recent years, the gates have been closed during Riverfest due to rising floodwaters.

The family theme is no doubt what makes Riverfest so enduring year after year. The price is also right: Entertainment on the main stage is free along with many other activities for young and old.

Children can find delight in the Family Fun Village, with on-going arts and craft activities, games, magic and puppet shows, and much more. Adults can enjoy more than 40 craft displays, strolling entertainment and lots of festival-type goodies.

But Riverfest is more than just a laid-back weekend of food and fun. It can bring out the competitor in you.

More than 500 runners, joggers and walkers will participate in the 5.25-mile race tonight. Other competitions on tap include a sand-castle building contest, a fiddler competition, Miss Riverfest pageant and a talent show for young people.

The success of Riverfest each year is due in large part to hundreds of dedicated volunteers. Their tireless behind-the-scenes efforts make the celebration enjoyable for all.

Riverfest will be capped off with a gigantic fireworks display Saturday night. Watching these colorful fireworks reflecting off the river can be a truly breathtaking sight -- a telling reminder of the majesty and the might of the Mississippi River.