Summer has started, and all rock-skipping enthusiasts should be preparing themselves for the 11th annual Rock Skipping Contest sponsored by Orne’s Candy Store in Boothbay Harbor.

Mark the date (Saturday, July 12) and be prepared. It’s not only a great time for kids of all ages, but the proceeds from the donations go directly to the Boothbay Region Food Pantry.

This annual event is open to kids of all ages, regardless of their prowess in throwing rocks. Rock skipping has long been part of the summer tradition of the Webster family, owners of Orne’s since 1960, and they love sharing with friends, neighbors and those other rock-skipping fanatics.

It’s not quite “ready, set, throw,” but that’s coming up soon, specifically on July 12. On the spot signups start at 1:30 p.m. and the first throw will go off at 2 p.m. The location is still the same: Down at the water’s edge in the parking lot next to the footbridge in Boothbay Harbor.

Those interested in being part of this historic event should bring their own skipping rocks (we suggest at least seven), and — all important — a “rock-skipping moniker/name.” You can’t skip without it, and you might not like the one we make up for you. Keep it “rocky.”

The divisions are: girls 12 and under; boys 12 and under; adult women and adult men, 13 and up. Suggested donations: $5 for adults and $1 for kids 12 and under.

Options to sign up for the contest are: While in town, just step into Orne’s Candy Store, on Commercial Street, and add your name to the list on the inside of the front door; or sign up at the skipping location starting at 1:30 p.m. on the day of the contest. A donation can be given at either place.

This year is no different from the past. Orne’s Candy Store will provide prizes for participants, and winners. Everyone who enters the competition gets rock candy on a stick. The winner in each category gets “the thrill of victory,” plus a pound of Orne’s Rocky Road Fudge, a handsome trophy created by Arthur Webster, your photo and name in the newspaper and your name added to the “chronicles of rock skipping legends.”