CRANBERRY TWP — The planner charged with reviving the Regatta at Lake Arthur said today she’s miles ahead of where organizers where last year in terms of getting donations and sponsors.

The Butler County Tourism and Convention Bureau last year hired Holly Muchnok of East Wing Events in Allegheny County to organize the event, which has suffered from declining attendance for several years in a row.

Primarily organized by volunteers in the past, the regatta is a full-time job in itself, Muchnok said of the event that will occur at Moraine State Park on Aug. 2-3.

Muchnok briefed the tourism bureau board this morning, saying that although the regatta is in its 16th year, this is the first time the event has been organized by an outside person. That already is paying dividends.

She has gotten $30,000 in cash donations and sponsorships and another $54,000 in in-kind contributions such as food and other services. That $84,000 compared to the $10,000 for last year’s event.

That money will go for some new events although little is set in stone. Traditional events like fireworks, hot air balloon rides and a car show likely will be a part of the regatta.

Muchnok said she has 15 food vendors committed, and she is working on bringing a bevy of water activities such as sailing, kayaking and fly fishing demos.

Muchnok added that she’s intent on regionalizing the event and has contacted businesses from Pittsburgh to Erie about the regatta.

Anyone wanting to learn more about the regatta can visit the event’s website at www.lakearthurregatta.org.