Community Corner
Get Ready to Mardi Growl
This year, there's a new way to celebrate Mardi Gras locally, and it involves four-legged companions. Cute dogs in zany costumes surely will make a memorable event.
Dog lovers have a new chance to meet each other and celebrate Mardi Growl instead of just Mardi Gras this year, and everyone can come see the new parade and participate in the post-parade festivities. Eureka Chamber of Commerce and Eureka Parks and Recreation Department representatives teamed up to offer this new event on March 6 in the Old Town Eureka on Central Avenue.
"The concept actually came from Barb Gillick at when we were talking about the idea of a pet park," said Joy Sauter, membership and marketing director for the Eureka Chamber.
Registration of $5 per dog begins at 1 p.m. at a tent on Frisco Street and South Virginia Avenue, with the parade starting at 1:30 p.m. Checks will be made payable to the Eureka Chamber of Commerce.
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The Mardi Growl is all in fun, but the organizers have a serious purpose, too. A donation will be presented to Dirk's Fund—a non-profit, dog rescue organization now focused on Golden Retrievers and based in Pacific, MO.
Bring a camera and some lawn chairs to relax by the parade route. Afterward, an entertainment stage is planned, and the emcee for the event will be Jeff Burton from 105.7 The Pointe Radio.
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Dog owners can pre-register their parade unit by calling the Chamber of Commerce office at 636-938-6062. Checks can be mailed to the Chamber at 22 Dreyer Ave., Eureka, MO 63025. The first 100 registrants will get a free “doggy” bag.
Registrants also are welcome on the day of the parade.
Sauter said prizes will be awarded for the following three categories: pet/owner look-a-like; best dressed pet; and best overall costume.
She said the streets in downtown Eureka will be blocked off from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., with the live entertainment starting at 2 p.m. "Eureka businesses will offer Mardi Gras-themed beverages and food, so we're hoping everyone will support a local effort and enjoy themselves," said Sauter.
Kid-friendly crafts and pet-related vendors will be available.
Nationally, Mardi Gras 2011 falls on Tuesday, March 8.
Editor's Note: Mardi Growl rules and registration materials accompany this article.