The Friends of the Shiawassee River have launched a fundraising raffle for a 12’ Oru Folding Kayak to informally kick off the paddling season.  The kayak is valued at over $1,300.  Funds generated by the raffle will be used by the Friends to host water quality monitoring stream teams, an annual river clean-up, paddling events, and other Friends’ efforts.  Winners will be announced at the Friends’ annual wine-tasting event, to be held on Wednesday, September 26th at the Owosso Country Club.                                            

“The Shiawassee River is an amazing natural resource in our community, yet I hear time and again that so few get on the river and enjoy it first-hand. The opportunity to get a quality kayak, hand-picked by the Friends of the Shiawassee River will give you the opportunity to experience the Shiawassee and take advantage of our river every year! Whether you win the raffle or not, get out on the river and enjoy what it has to offer! – Board President, Nick Tereck

 “The Raffle is more than just a way for the Friends to raise a little money.  Part of our mission is to promote the recreational use of the river. This raffle will enable the lucky winner to get out and enjoy the river we love so much.” – Board Director, Matt VanEpps

Raffle tickets will be available for $5 at Fifth Third Bank (Downtown Owosso branch), Gilbert’s Hardware and Appliance (Owosso), J & S Tire (Owosso), Matador Pizza (Byron and Morrice) Shiawassee Arts Center (Owosso), YMCA (Owosso), and - or from any Friends’ Board member.  They may also be purchased at the Friends’ wine-tasting event in September.  The kayak will be on display for much of the summer at Gilbert’s Hardware and Appliance, J & S Tire, and other sites around town (including the Downtown Owosso Farmers Market on May 19, June 16, July 21, August 11, and September 15.