Jonny & Xena Spread The Words 5K, Festival Returns Oct. 28

JOHNS CREEK, GA -- A Johns Creek boy and his dog plan to change the world and you are invited to be part of their journey at the third annual Jonny & Xena Spread the Words 5K, Fun Run, Walk and Festival. This year's event will be held Saturday, Oct. 28 at Suwanee's Town Center Park.

Along with the 5K, walk and fun run, more than 20 local animal rescue groups will be on hand with free
adoptable pets (with approved applications, of course). Well-behaved, leashed furry family members are
welcome, too, and you can even get them microchipped on site. Xena’s own favorite trainer, Alex
from Peach on a Leash, will be on hand to answer all of your dog training questions.

There will also be activities for humans, such as vendors, a silent auction, music from the Brookwood Elementary School Chorus and an inflatable slide for children and -- adults who are young at heart (SIGN UP: Get Patch's Daily Newsletter and Real Time News Alerts. Or, if you have an iPhone, download the free Patch app).

Speaking of grownups, registered participants who are 21 and older will receive a free adult mixed drink. Bring the family for a day of fun that benefits the local special needs community, including autism programs and animal rescue. Both causes are near and dear to the organizers and namesakes of the festival.

The pair’s journey began a neglected pup, clinging to life by a thread, was found in a Decatur yard. After
months of rehabilitation, she found herself in the home of a young boy with autism. In Xena, Jonny found a
friend, a companion and a therapist all wrapped up in a furry brown package. Now they’re “spreading the
words” and making a difference in the lives of both humans and animals.

The fun begins with on-site registration at 8 a.m. Oct. 28 at Town Center Park in Suwanee at 330 Town
Center Avenue. The 5K/walk begins at 9 a.m., the Fun Run at 10 a.m. and the festival runs from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. You can register for the 5K, walk and Fun Run online. Be sure to register in advance since the price will increase by $5 on the day of the event.

Even if you can’t be there, you’ll find a virtual option that lets you participate from anywhere in the world.
A commemorative T-shirt is guaranteed to all participants who preregister, including virtual ones, and will
be available while supplies last for those who register after Oct. 22.

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Early package pick-up at Big Peach Running Co. at 320 Town Center Avenue in Suwanee will be held 3-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27. Pick up Friday night and receive in-store discounts on sneakers and other merchandise.

For questions or additional information, contact Linda Hickey at Jonnyandxenaspreadthewords@yahoo.com or 770-851-1266.

Images via Jonny & Xena Spread The Words Foundation