‘Lend a Paw’ dog walk on April 23 to show support of autism awareness

Following the success of its 2016 autism awareness event and launch of the single, “Not So Different,” HAIL! Fredonia records plans a second event in April with a “Lend a Paw” dog walk.

The event is slated for Sunday, April 23 beginning at 1 p.m. on the Fredonia campus. Students, faculty, and townspeople are encouraged to bring their dogs and participate in the event. Participants are not required to bring a dog in order to walk and support the cause. To ensure a spot, walkers can complete a registration form prior to the event either at the event table in McEwen Hall or at the Fredonia Ticket Office in the Williams Center. Registration forms will also be available the day of the walk at the campus clock tower from noon to 1 p.m.

Entry fees are $15 before the event and $20 for day-of entries. Admission fees also include food and beverage coverage during the reception following the walk.

Tickets bought prior to April 16 will include an autism awareness t-shirt. The walk takes place along Ring Road until 2 p.m. Water is provided along the way for both dogs and their owners. Sanitary bags are also provided to keep the campus clean. All participating dogs must be leashed.

Following the walk is a reception at the campus amphitheater including a BBQ, 50/50 and basket raffles, food and bake sales, live acoustic performances, and remarks from President Virginia Horvath and Canisius College faculty member Dr. Marcus Thomeer of the Institute for Autism Research (IAR).

Treats will be provided for canine companions. Puzzle pieces will be available for sale in order for walkers to donate money and show their support of autism awareness. The reception will last until 5 p.m.

HAIL! Fredonia Records worked with the Institute of Autism Research previously with the release of the single, “Not So Different,” featuring singer/songwriter Cassandra Kubinski, Mary Ramsey of 10,000 Maniacs and John Rzeznik of the Goo Goo Dolls. The single was released on iTunes and Google Play, All purchases of the single go to the IAR. The single will be available for purchase on both CD and digital copy during the autism walk event.

HAIL! Fredonia Records is a student-run record label that provides opportunities to students to gain real-world experience. The record label is guided by well-known producer and Fredonia faculty member Armand Petri.

For more information on the Institute for Autism Research, please visit online.