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Tarpon will go to the dogs with canine-theme events

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BY MARK SCHANTZ

THE SUNCOAST NEWS

Published: January 3, 2009

TARPON SPRINGS - Two groups, one at the Sponge Docks and another downtown, are planning separate canine-related events to attract visiting dog lovers.

A group of merchants at the Sponge Docks plan the first in a series of special events designed to pay homage to mankind's best friend.

Docks Dog Day will take place from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10, in two large parking areas behind Zorba's, on Athens Street.

Alissa Fatolitis, spokeswoman for the event, said organizers hope Docks Dog Day will become a yearly attraction.

People and their pooches are invited to participate in several contests, including most talented or trained dog, a costume contest, pooch-owner look-a-like contest and catch the ball or bone competition.

Pet owners will be able to test their ability to identify different breeds.

Food and music will be available, with proceeds benefitting the Humane Society of North Pinellas, in Clearwater.

In these very difficult economic times at the Sponge Docks, merchants decided they must work together to promote the riverfront Hellenic cultural district, Fatolitis said.

"This event will give people a special reason to come back to the Sponge Docks," she added.

Sponge Dock merchants are planning to present other specialty events during 2009, including a car and boat show and one event featuring pirate treasure.

Also on Jan. 10, the Tarpon Springs Chamber of Commerce's Tourist Development Council will hold a Pet Lovers Expo from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. It will be held downtown at the municipal parking lot at the corner of Tarpon and Pinellas avenues and along Court Street.

TDC Chairwoman Lisa Martino said this quarterly event will include a running of the wiener dogs, pet parade, canine costume contest and talent show, pet massage, informational booth and vendors selling pooch-related items.

This event will assist the efforts of the Palm Harbor-based Suncoast Animal League.

Mark Schantz can be reached at 727-815-1075 or mschantz@suncoastnews.com.

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