Reprinted in part from thezebra.org
Alexandria, VA – After seven fur-flying months of planning, the ALX Dog Walk is happening Saturday, April 2, in Old Town. Founded by Julie Chapman, this new walk is sure to become an annual Alexandria tradition.
“The vision from day one was that it become a coveted, annual tradition for Alexandria, that draws people from all over the DMV to come into our city, attend a fun event, and enjoy our city,” says Chapman.
Beginning in Oronoco Bay Park, over 500 dogs and their owners will stroll the waterfront walk to the Robinson Landing pier, pause before a judging panel, and then circle back to Oronoco Bay Park.
The judging panel will choose winners for the following categories: funniest personality, biggest ears, fluffiest tail, best groomed, and best recycled costume. The Dog Store in Del Ray will bestow a $100 gift card on each winner. Upon check-in, which starts at 7:00 am, guests will be entered into a raffle. Walkers will also receive a goodie bag, a t-shirt, and breakfast refreshments at check-in.
Once registered and fueled up, an 8 am photo shoot kicks off the 8:15 am start of the walk. Raffle and costume contest winners will be announced at about 9 am. Participants can enjoy music and taste delicious light refreshments throughout the event, such as vegan dogs from the Haute Dogs and Fries food truck. Everyone is asked to bring their own water bottle, as this is a plastic-free event.
Don’t worry; the pups haven’t been left out! The pet brand Chippin will provide sustainable, healthy dog treats throughout the morning as well.
Thirteen generous sponsors have contributed to making the ALX Dog Walk possible. Chapman, who previously opened two other organizations promoting public causes, understands the value of the public-private partnership. “We are better when we come together on behalf of a social cause, and we have a fantastic group of people who came together for this,” she says.
Adding to sponsorship funds, walkers will have the opportunity at check-in to donate an extra $25, which will go to planting 20 trees to increase Alexandria’s tree canopy.
After the event, 100% of funds raised will be allocated towards achieving the core mission points, specifically refurbishing the historic King Street Garden Park, planting those 20 trees in a local hot spot in need of more greenery, eliminating trash and debris pollution, and improving upon the event next year.
“No doubt, we are learning a lot this year,” says Chapman, “but in the years ahead, we hope to expand the lessons learned. We want to grow and flourish in many ways. We are excited about that.”
For more information on the 2022 ALX Dog Walk or register, visit www.alxdogwalk.com. Want to sponsor next year’s walk? Contact Julie Chapman at juliechapman@alxdogwalk.com or (703) 717-3672.
ALX Dog Walk Partners
Honorary Emcee:
Chuck Bell, NBC Storm Team 4 Meteorologist
Honorary Co-Chairs:
Mayor Justin Wilson
Monte Durham, Salon Monte, Host of “Say Yes to the Dress Atlanta”
FOUNDER Sponsors:
Wexler LLC
PACK Sponsors:
NS2
TAIL WAGGER Sponsors:
To learn more about how to sponsor the ALX Dog Walk this year and in the future, go to ALXdogwalk.com.
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