On Saturday, August 16, 2025, the City of Coos Bay Parks’ Adopt-A-Park Pilot Program (AAPPP) hosted its second annual Dog Days of Summer celebration at John Topits Park in the Middle Empire Lakes area. This year’s event was proudly co-sponsored by The South Coast Shopper, whose partnership helped amplify community engagement and support.

Trail Marker Adoption Drive

The primary goal of the event was to complete the replacement of the final 19 trail markers along the John Topits Park Trail System. Each marker was available for adoption at $60, with all routing, painting, and installation generously donated by local woodworking volunteers and the City of Coos Bay Public Works Department. Thanks to enthusiastic community participation, all 19 posts were successfully pledged—culminating with Carmen Matthews adopting the final marker in honor of Annie Pollard.

Celebrating National Dog Month

In honor of National Dog Month and Clear the Shelters Month, the event featured a lively “Dog Strut” contest. Participants were encouraged to donate to Friends of Coos County Animals (FOCCAS), raising $85 to support local shelter pets in finding their forever homes.

Seven proud pups strutted their stuff for a panel of judges from The South Coast Shopper, including Britney Gordon (with her dog Bruno), Sara Neils, and Catie Loy. The winners were:

- Best Adoption Story: Snickers, owned by William Salmon

- Pawsitively Polite: Sigh, owned by Tina Peek

- Judges’ Choice: Sammy, owned by Tom Doyle

Community Contributions & Gratitude

This event was made possible by the incredible support of sponsors and volunteers:

- Tracy Pierce from NW Natural donated to the prizes with dog toys, towels, treats, and gift cards to Mini Pet Mart, The Boat Fish & Chips Restaurant, and NOBE.

- Valerie Henson from Ziply Fiber provided pup cups, collapsible dog bowls, and other goodies for attendees.

A heartfelt thank-you goes out to our 19 volunteers, who contributed a total of 54 hours to make this event a success.