Bark For Life On Friday Will Feature Carnival Games, Craft Beer

Greater Bangor Bark for Life is coming up Friday, with some fun new additions, like carnival games and craft beer.

I'm so excited to once again co-host this dog-friendly event with my buddy and former co-worker, Craig Colson. He asked me to join him in the hosting duties several years ago and, once he said it's full of dogs and benefits the American Cancer Society, I was in. Each year, we do some fun doggy contests, like the best costume, biggest and smallest dog, furthest traveled, and best trick.

But this year, organizers have decided to shake things up. So the event is being held on a Friday evening, rather than a Saturday, so it doesn't ruin weekend plans. There will be lots of carnival games, to add a fun and festive atmosphere. Pompeii Pizza, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Spencer's Ice Cream will provide the refreshments, as well as some of the Bark for Life teams, who will have cotton candy, dough boys, and other treats. There will even be an artist on-hand to do caricatures of you, your dog, or both. And, as an added attraction, participants can enjoy some adult beverages in the craft beer tent.

You don't need to have a dog to take part in the event. Dog lovers, and dog owners who want to show up without their furry friends, are welcome to attend.There's still time to get signed up, or you can register at the gate on the way into the event, that will run from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Hollywood Casino Raceway, Bass Park in Bangor. Registrants get a t-shirt and their dog will get a bandanna. Proceeds from the event will help cancer patients right here in Maine, and Mainers who travel to Boston for treatment. Hope House in Boston offers lodging for these families, with a serene, supportive atmosphere. I hope to see you there. Just don't be surprised when I ask to pet your dog, because I probably will.