Bryan’s Bash drew more than 100 guests and raised about $14,500 to ensure that dogs continue to have a park to call their own.
The annual fundraiser, which benefits Bryan County Bark Park, was held Saturday evening at Richmond Hill City Center. Money was raised through sponsorships, ticket sales, live- and silent-auction items and a percentage of dog-themed cocktail sales donated by City Center.  
“We are so grateful to everybody who participated in the fundraiser, especially those who open their hearts and check books every year to ensure that our community continues to enjoy a safe, happy place for dogs to run free,” Bryan County Bark Park President Wendy Bolton said. “This event has gone a long way to reduce the $20,000 in construction debt incurred while building the park, and we are very grateful. However, the nonprofit organization behind this free community facility is currently responsible for all the costs associated with building and maintaining our dog park, and we would like to begin building the path of memorial plaques this year.”
For those who were not able to attend the fundraiser, a new sponsorship package is available enabling businesses and individuals to sponsor benches, memorial plaques, maintenance costs and other items to further improve the park. Information is available from the Bark Park website, bryancountybarkpark.com or by calling Bolton at 912-657-1221.
The money raised supports the Bryan County Bark Park, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations may be tax deductible. Follow the park on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BryanCountyBarkPark.
Major sponsors of Bryan’s Bash included Mungo Homes, Better Way Foundation, Richmond Hill City Center and Lesley Francis Public Relations. Emmy Award-winning news anchor Sonny Dixon of WTOC-TV acted as emcee and auctioneer, and local musician Roger Widener entertained the crowd. A presentation was made to volunteer Leslie Durham.