Every dad has his day at Sarasota's Mall at University Town Center
First 'Dad's Day' celebration draws huge crowd.
By
Berkley Mason
| 10:15 a.m. June 21, 2017
East County
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Sure, the first Dad's Day Block Party June 17 at The Mall at University Town Center offered a terrific main event with former Tampa Bay Bucs wide receiver Michael Clayton and current Buc Dexter Jackson signing autographs and visiting with fans.
But it also offered something every dad needs on Father's Day weekend.
Free massages by Brookstone.
More than 1,500 people came to the Grand Court to enjoy the free event, which includes the NFL celebrities and the free massages, along with live music by Crystal Blue, a technology demonstration in the Microsoft Lounge and food from Burger & Beer Joint, Sweet Doctors and Great American Cookies.
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Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers players Michael Clayton and Dexter Jackson sign autographs and take photos during Dad's Day.
Crystal Blue band drummer Steve Bahnuk jams out at The Mall at University Town Center.
East County's Brooklyn Williams catches a ride on Isaiah Williams' back as they wait in line for food.
Parrish's Emma and James Pearson snuggle up during Dad's Day.
Bradenton's Jabrielle Nelson and former Bucs wide receiver Michael Clayton meet for the first time during Dad's Day.
Former Buc Dexter Jackson, East County's Alex Webb and Joanna Webb show off their autographs.
Back: East County's Melvin Arriaza, former Bucs wide receiver Michael Clayton and Jared Arriaza. Front: East County's Estella, Ivan and Ammy Arriaza.
Sarasota's Ezra Smith munches on some free samples during Dad's Day.
East County's Robbie and Addison Clemmons spend quality father-daughter time together during Dad's Day.
A giant cookie sits on display for Dad's Day attendees.
Palmer Ranch's Yana Bendersky enjoys not one, but two Starbuck's refreshments.
Sarasota's Rylan and Travis White play video games during Dad's Day at The Mall at University Town Center.
Lagui Leiva demonstrates how to make a cigar at Covadonga Cigars' booth during Dad's Day.
