Jackson Free Press

Michael Hrivnak has spent the past few days sending miniature rubber ducks on a test swim through Smith Park's fountain in downtown Jackson. This weekend, more than 300 ducks will race to raise money for Stewpot Community Services during the Arts Alive! festival.

Hrivnak is the chairman of Arts Alive! and the director of worship arts at Galloway United Methodist Church. The third annual event promotes visual and performing arts and all proceeds benefit Stewpot's programs to help the homeless. Last year, the event raised $3,500.

The Pennsylvania native is introducing the inaugural "Smith Park Fountain Festival Foul Regatta" as a creative way to raise additional funds for the nonprofit.

At various times throughout the festival, rubber ducks will race for various door prizes, such an overnight stay at the Fairview Inn and a $1,000 gift certificate from Carter Jewelers.

Participants can purchase a duck for $5 at the festival and do not have to be present to win.

"It is a fantastically fun event, and I thought what a unique things do to in Smith Park," Hrnivak says.

The festival features 40 vendors and includes an education and outreach area for families, a giant canvass for children to paint, origami making, a music-education center and dance instruction.

The 41-year-old gives credit to the community for making the event a success.

"This is a wonderful big committee of people," he says. "We have great support from the city it's getting better every year. Stewpot is 30 years strong and running and we are glad to be apart of that."

Hrnivak lives in Madison with his two children and wife, Chrissy.

Arts Alive! is from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 13 and 14 in Smith Park. For more information, visit the festival's website.