On Saturday, April 19, the Junior class of West Seattle High School held its 2nd annual "Pet Rodeo & Snooty Walk" at Hiawatha Park from 2-4 pm. Events included "Cutest Couple," comprised of either a pair of dogs, or a dog and owner, "Fastest Pet," and "Obstacle Course." About 50 pooches joined the fun, as did two goats and two chickens.

Snow came down hard at about 3pm, and the rodeo yielded to the "Snootiest Walk" awards that were moved inside.

Celebrity judges for the snooty-walkers included NBA star and motivational speaker Derek Sparks, and Sharon Nickels, wife of Mayor Greg Nickels. They Nickels' were towed into the park at 2pm by Edgar, their large furry grey pound puppy they adopted last year.

"We were told he might be a border collie/terrier mix and a medium-sized dog which we don't think is right. He's too big," said the mayor. The Nickels' said Edgar was at the fair "strictly as an observer" to avoid a bias in judging.

High school co-president for the class of '09, Sumeet Chadha, was in charge of the other student volunteers. Armed with a walkie-talkie and enthusiastic smile he said, "Students put this whole event together. Last year we raised $1400. The money goes toward prom and graduation. We hope to raise more this year."