
OUT WITH HIS HUMANS … Here’s Hudson with his humans, Greg and Sarah Casserino, at the Alive After 5 Pet Parade, which was held on May 20, 2021 at the Bryan Square. It seems that everyone who was able to participate had a great time, whether they won a prize or not. (PHOTOS PROVIDED)

PARADE LEADERS … Williams County Sheriff Deputy Ken Jacob and his K9 partner, Ruin, lead the pet parade around the square during the May 20, 2021 event, Alive After 5 Pet Parade, then offered a demonstration of the hard work of which Ruin is capable.
By: Rebecca Miller
Wonderful weather and a lot of fun were had by all who came out to celebrate National Pet Month at the “Alive After 5” event held on Thursday, May 20, 2021, from 5-8 p.m. on the Bryan Square.
Many who enjoyed the Chocolate Walk on May 6th, came out again, whether they had a pet to show off or not, to enjoy the evening of refreshments and sales.
People went from store to store answering Pet Trivia questions at each stop. Many of the businesses had water dishes out for hydrating the pets. The Bryan Theater offered a photo op with a “kissing booth” and were also selling $1 root beer floats.
Created by the Bryan Development Foundation in 2019, the “Alive After 5” participating businesses and organizations stay open late to provide an opportunity for the public to see all of the great things these hometown entities have to offer, along with specials, refreshments, live music, contests, and much more.
This family and pet friendly event included the pet parade and a pet trivia contest. Parade registration took place at the Bryan Chamber of Commerce located at 138 South Lynn Street starting at 5 pm, and the parade began at 6 pm.
The parade registration fee of $5 benefits the Williams County Humane Society, who provided the judges for the evening.
Participants got to test their pet knowledge with the pet trivia contest. Forms to participate were picked up at the Bryan Chamber and Prizes were awarded for the trivia contest and in four categories of parade participants: Best Dressed Pet, Cutest Pet, Owner and Pet Look-alike, and Most Exotic Pet.
Participants were asked to be sure that their pet was up to date on all vaccinations and is well socialized and nonaggressive.
The “Alive After 5” events are hosted by local Bryan merchants and the Bryan Development Foundation. 2021 sponsors include Premier Bank, Spangler Candy Company, Amerimade Realty, Bard Manufacturing, Coldwell Banker/Classic Properties, State Bank, Andres, O’Neil & Lowe, LS Wealth Management, Fireovid Financial Group, L.S. Wealth Management and the Bryan Development Foundation.
The “Alive After 5” planning team includes Cheryl Andres, Mary Leatherman, Mary Lozowski, Ann Spangler, Misty King, and Teresa and Kevin Maynard. For information on Upcoming Events, check the Bryan Development Foundation and the Alive After 5 Facebook pages.
Rebecca can be reached at publisher@thevillagereporter.com