The mission of Bowmanstown Area Residents Connected is to empower residents through increasing community awareness and communication.BARC hosts several events throughout the year including the fourth annual dog show held Saturday morning. Local canines made their way to the Solt Pavilion on Lime Street with their owners in tow to put their best paw forward for a first prize bandanna and $10 gift card to Lorenzo's Pizzeria.

More than 20 dogs strutted under blue skies for judges Pastor Dan Schapell, Sara Moyer and Grant Scott in a chance to win one of nine categories up for grabs."It was great," Schapell said. "It was very hard to award prizes. They're all cute and well-behaved."The show began as an idea four years ago as a way to get people of Bowmanstown together, according to borough councilman Rob Moyer."The money raised goes back into the community. Our dream is to have a dog park one day," he said.Zakia, a 5-year-old chow, was registered in the show by owner Taylor Sickels after she spotted an ad for the show earlier in the week."It's a great way to support the community," Sickels said.The chow won first place in the fluffiest category.Owners prompted their pooches to sit, high-five and play dead for the crowd throughout the morning.Crystal Michael's 1-year-old Bear won for most expressive eyes. Michael said she received her copper-colored husky as a Valentine's Day present this year."I thought it was a great dog show," she said. "We'll be back next year for sure."The best trick award went to a Yorkie named Joe. Owner Lana Tracey shot him "dead" where he remained for several minutes until he was rewarded with a treat. Joe received applause along with the blue bandanna."There was a lot of love here today," Schapell said. "It's a great way to build the community."In addition to the dog show, BARC is planning a community picnic and safety night. The group has organized block watch meetings that are held at borough hall the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. Residents are encouraged to attend. For more information on the committee or block watch contact Rob Moyer at

soitanly@yahoo.com or the BARC Facebook page.