Do it for the dogs

Hot dogs aren’t the only dogs being celebrated at FrankFest.

In addition to creative hot dog contests, FrankFest is holding a number activities for Newton residents’ four-legged friends on Sept. 16.

FrankFest will kick off at 5:30 p.m. with the “One Mile Doggie Dash.” The route will be located entirely within Maytag Park. There is a $10 entry fee, with a portion of the entry fee being donated to Paws-N-Claws Iowa and the rest going toward updating the Sunset Park Dog Park. Those who wish to participate in the fun run are to arrive no later than 5:15 p.m.

At 6 p.m. a “Best Hotdog” contest will take place. Local businesses can sign up for a booth, receive 150 hotdogs, buns, trays, gloves and space at Maytag Park, and the rest is up to them. They can provide any seasonings or toppings they like, as long as there edible.

Judging for the “Overall Hot Dog” will be voted on by a panel of judges and a “People’s Choice Dog” will be voted on by the public.

Tickets are required for guests to purchase hot dogs. One ticket is $1. Hot dogs cost one ticket.

Finally, a “Strut your Mutt Dog Show,” hosted by Progress Industries, will be held at 6:30 p.m. at Maytag Bowl. Organizers say “there’s no need to have a long line of pedigree here, the show is open to everyone.”

There is a $10 entry fee with the proceeds going toward Progress Industries. To enter, a copy of current vaccine records is required. Winners will receive a six-month supply of homemade dog treats.

All donations for the event will be going to the City of Newton’s parks department to help provide more recreation opportunities throughout Newton.

“We wanted to do a fundraiser, not just for us but for other charities in the area. Lucy’s Pet Pantry will be accepting donations of pet food and Paws-N-Claws will even have some adoptable pet at the event,” Victoria Jordan, the seasonal parks and recreation specialist for the City of Newton, said.

Registration for booths ends Sept. 10, but registration for the doggy dash and dog show will still be open day of.