Hot Dog! Thanks with Franks returns next week

Those funky hot dog concoctions are back next week during the 13th annual Thanks with Franks event where local businesses invite the public to be frank about their favorite dog.

The Young Professionals of Jasper County’s event is set for 5:30 p.m. Sept. 7 in Newton’s downtown square. The event is free to the public as 26 various businesses and organizations will set up booths where their creations will be available for tasting and voting.

In the past, the event has drawn thousands to the square where 10,000 dogs have been distributed.

Community members will vote on “The Top Dog” award. Pride and popularity are up for grabs for the most popular dog/theme. There will be two voting stations where everyone can cast a vote for their favorite frank. The winning business will receive free admission for Thanks with Franks 2018.

The event’s time change is the only difference this year, according to Zach Umsted, vice president of YPJC. The time of the event was moved back from 6 p.m. to allow more time for chowing down and voting.

The YPJC will provide each participating business and organization with 200 hot dogs, 200 buns and booth space on the square. Each business or organization paid an admission of $100.

YPJC president Erin Blank said all the money raised from the event will go to local charity organizations.

“Thanks with Franks is an awesome event held annually where local businesses give out free hot dogs to show there appreciation for the continued support that they receive from the local community,” Blank said.

The concession stand will be run by Red Pride Service Day, and all profits made by the stand will be donated to them.

Creative hot dogs over the years include the Elvis Dog with peanut butter and bananas, the Garbage Dog, the Hippie Hot Dog and the Smashed Dog.

“People can expect a wide range of crazy hot dogs this year, and some pretty funky hot dog beats from JJ Express,” Umsted said. “Everyone should come hungry and enjoy the event.”

JJ Express is a local band that trades in classic rock, blue grit, sunny jams, sleek grooves and original odysseys.

In order to spread out and give everyone equal room for their booths, YPJC will be assigning booths on a first come, first served basis.

There are a limited number of electric spots, so electric booths are limited. Bringing a small generator is encouraged to provide power for booths.

Setup will begin at 4:30 p.m. on Sept. 7 for booths. To find out updated information, visit the YPJC Facebook page.

Contact Kayla Langmaid at 641-792-3121 ext. 6533 or klangmaid@newtondailynews.com