While working out at the local YMCA, I listened to some perspiring young ladies and gentlemen complaining that "there is nothing to do in Houston and Kingwood." I smiled inwardly because I had just reviewed (and attended a number of events) what was available in Houston and Kingwood (our home town): a play at the Alley Theater, shows from Broadway, a new opera, an exceptional performance-run by the Houston Ballet, a comedy routine by Lily Tomlin (a one-night performance), some musical concerts by our Big Band of Kingwood College (who just returned from a European tour, including the Montreux Jazz Festival), a new play by the Kingwood Players, Octoberfest (beer and entertainment), the Greek Festival (food and music and dancing), and, of course, the highlight of any year of culture in Kingwood, Barktoberfest- kicking off the fall dog season, finally featuring the 10-mile run for masters and their dogs, the Barkaton (carrying bottled water and doggie bags) .

In Kingwood's Central Square were thirty booths: for wayward dogs (Animal Rescue League), dog goodies, the Bark Master (lessons for dogs so that you, the master, got less barks when arriving home late to a lonely dog), Fresh Baked Goodies for dogs and masters, obedience workshops which led to classes elsewhere, dog hotels and spas (advertising their locations and services, like Dog's Day Out and Dog's Day Inn), and a miniature town for dogs, Barksville. As I drove around the square three times,  it seemed that thousands attended.

I am told: One has not lived unless you attend Barktoberfest at least once in your life. It is man's best friend of festivals. And it happens in October when the beer is flowing as well as doggie bones. If you attend, you know at once this is "not a festival for the dog-days of summer heat" but the cool "dog-days of fall." Our celebration of "man's and woman's best friend" proves that  no matter where you live, you will find something unique (along with all the special and beautiful events to attend); something so unusual that it can only be called, BARKTOBERFEST-KINGWOOD, TEXAS.

Next time you are in the neighborhood at this time of year, let me know and we can go together, howling at the full moon over several full glasses of Texas beer and a dog-eared Barktoberfest program. And some people say, "There is nothing to do!"

Our dog, Honey, talked us out of going this year. These red carpet doggie events are for show, she thinks, and she is "for know" (an intelligent dog). "Barktoberfest," she barks softly, knowingly, "this year, is just so-so!" Also her boy friend from across the street is away and can't go.

Woof in walks without rain and service without fences,

Joe