March 14, 2006

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DOES YOUR DOG HAVE WHAT IT TAKES? THE HARRIS TEETER/PURINA® TOP DOG PHOTO CONTEST

Charlotte, NC - It's time for uncommon canines to get signed up for the Harris Teeter/Purina® Top Dog Photo Contest. The winner will receive a commissioned portrait worth more than $3,000 by nationally known local artist Mark Durham. The Top Dog and his/her owner will also receive a Harris Teeter/Purina® prize pack and act as grand marshals of the Pooch Parade at the Harris Teeter/Purina® Bark in the Park festival. The runners up will be honored during the event also.

Dog owners may sign up now. The entry fee is $12 and all contestants get a free T-shirt if they register by March 20. Registration forms and entry instructions are available at:

• Harris-Teeter
• East Park District Office, 5715 Monroe Road, Charlotte
• Download from http://www.parkandrec.com

Mail the registration form, a 4" x 6" photo of your dog, 25 words or less on why your dog should be Top Dog and a check (made payable to Partners for Parks) as directed on the form. Entries must be postmarked by March 28.

A panel of judges will select three finalists whose photos will be posted on http://www.parkandrec.com . The public can vote online April 7 - 12 for the Harris Teeter/Purina® Top Dog. The winner will be announced April 15.

The Top Dog and owner will be honored at the Harris Teeter/Purina® Bark in the Park festival. The festival is April 22, from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Ray's Fetching Meadow, McAlpine Creek Park, 8711 Monroe Road. It is free to the public and will feature a wide range of doggie events for all dogs with proof of current vaccinations.

For more information, call the East Park district office at 704-568-4044.