TURLOCK NOW: Row, row, row for a cause

A Theta Chi fraternity member takes part in the Row-A-Thon in 2001. This year's event will use a canoe.

TURLOCK - Do not be alarmed, this is not a flood disaster drill.

Instead members of the Theta Chi fraternity will be taking part in their annual Row-A-Thon starting at noon tomorrow in the California State University, Stanislaus reflecting pond. The event is to raise funds and awareness about asthma and respiratory health.

Fraternity members will row on the pond for 36-hours straight, in a two-man canoe, and accept donations throughout the event. The Theta Chi Row-A-Thons were popular back in the 1970s, and revived in 2001 as a Sept. 11 benefit. But after 2004 the benefit returned again as a regular event after fraternity president John Tooma passed away from an asthma attack.

The fraternity brothers use the fundraiser to support California Breathing, a group aimed at stemming asthma-related problems in the state. This year the fraternity hopes to raise $4,000, doubling last year’s haul.

The students will be rowing in hour-long shifts starting at noon and ending at 11:59 p.m. Wednesday. Donations are tax deductible.