Cooks grand marshall Dogwood Walk this weekend

FAYETTEVILLE — University of Arkansas co-head gymnastics coaches Mark and Rene Cook will serve as grand marshals for the 2005 Dogwood Walk Saturday, April 30, in Gulley Park. The 13th Annual Dogwood Walk benefits the Humane Society of the Ozarks and begins with a 9:00 a.m. registration. Various booths will be open along with demonstrations in agility, obedience and rally obedience. The walk begins at 11:00 a.m., followed by free pizza, a D.J. and awards. The Cooks will be on hand with their dogs Max and Molly, Cairn Terriers like Toto from The Wizard of Oz. "We’re very excited to help out with this project," said Rene Cook. "Our pets are family members and we enjoy being around them. We also understand that not every dog and cat is as lucky and we’re happy to help both financially and in raising awareness." Proceeds from the Dogwood Walk will benefit the low cost spay and neuter program, Humane education for kids, KIND News and emergency outreach as well as other programs. In addition to the Cooks, several Lady Razorback athletes will be on hand to walk pets that are available for adoption. "I know all of the athletes are excited to be around the dogs again this year," said Cook. "This is a great opportunity for our athletes to learn more about raising a pet or to connect with a dog while they are away at school." For more information contact the Humane Society of the Ozarks at 413 N. College Avenue in Fayetteville.