Article and photographs by Julie Lake
Barks will be heard and tails will be wagging as Bay City, MI goes to the dogs at the PAWS 4 Dogs event slated to take place at the Pere Marquette Depot in downtown Bay City on Sunday, September 27th, 2009 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
The event originated with Justin Graham, manager of the Pere Marquette Depot Welcome Center, who said that the Welcome Center hosts events every month to help put the Pere Marquette Depot back on the map. After being vacant for almost 40 years, the city of Bay City, MI began restoring the building, a registered National Historic site, to its original state. "The Pere Marquette Depot is operated under the Convention and Visitors’ Bureau (CVB). It's their Welcome Center. I think the best thing about these events is that they get people back into the building. It's been vacant for so long, people forget that it still exists," said Graham. "The CVB is supposed to attract people to Bay City, MI and what a great structure to lure people in with! Bay City, MI is known for its history, and what better way to advertise than with the Pere Marquette Depot."
While researching topics for a September event, Graham found out that the last week in September is National Dog Week , so he decided on PAWS 4 Dogs, which will feature dog-friendly activities. Dogs and dog owners can participate in a variety of activities, including doggie sit (a dog version of musical chairs), best tail-wagging contest and best look a-like contest (between dog and owner). Kaybee’s K9 Dog Training will also put on a dog agility show.
In addition to canine activities, many businesses will feature products for dogs and dog owners. "They range from dog groomers, veterinarians, and dog food supply companies to private businesses that make home-made dog treats and dog souvenirs. There will also be a dog photographer, an adopt-a-dog organization and the Humane Society, along with others," Graham added.
The event is free to the public. "It's encouraged that individuals bring their dogs to the event. It wouldn't be a very good dog event if people went around sampling the dog food or playing doggie sit, although that might be rather entertaining," said Graham.
The Pere Marquette Depot Welcome Center is located at 919 Boutell Place, Bay City, MI. For more information about the event, contact Justin Graham at 989-894-4801.
© Julie Lake, 2009