Things at The Ark are progressing quite nicely and we thought we would share what is happening.
The exterior work is just about done; time to move forward on the interior. The slab has been poured. Now it is time for Sheetrock, insulation, electrical and plumbing. All of the work done thus far is paid for in full and we continue to pay as we go. There is $20,000 left to complete the inside and an additional $13,000 is in a separate account for the HVAC system. We will also maintain $10,000 in funds as working capital. With all of that being said we know that $20,000 is not going to complete the inside.
We are looking at various ways to save money on the interior, one being we will have polished concrete floors which will save quite a bit. There will also be no offices, just a reception area that everyone will share. Little things like this will save us money. We need to make every penny count in order to accomplish our dream.
We are very determined to get everything done this year. We have some major fundraisers planned, the first being Grill & Chill on Saturday, Sept. 19, at the sanctuary grounds on old Woodstock starting at 4. This fundraiser is being headed up by two of our very dear friends, the two Kathryns — once they get their minds set there is no stopping them. They are our biggest cheerleaders! There will be live music and a silent auction. The menu will be smoked pork and turkey with all of the fixin’s and a super sundae bar.
We are so excited about this fundraiser and we hope you will all join us for the evening. We have so many wonderful auction items that have been donated by local businesses as well as from people out of town. And yes, we have a very special auction item: an autographed novel, “The Stand,” by Stephen King! How exciting is that?
That same day in the morning we will be at Tractor Supply on the North Road from 9-1 for a dog wash, bake sale and adopt-a-thon. The 19th will be a very busy day for The Ark.
We will have a bake sale outside the Hollywood Pet Salon from 9-2 on Saturday, Sept. 26.
We also have the “Walls of Love” fundraiser going on. You can purchase a tile for $25 to memorialize a pet or loved one or even create a message of support of our work for the animals. The tiles will be displayed on the walls of the new sanctuary. Submission forms are available at The Hollywood Pet Salon or on our website and Facebook pages.
I just want to thank everyone for their continued support. The local businesses and the entire community continue to amaze us with their generosity. None of this would be possible without each and every one of you. The people of this community have stood by us through thick and thin. You have been there at our lowest point and encouraged us to keep going. Thank you for believing in our dream as much as we do. Because of each and every one of you, The Ark Animal Sanctuary is becoming a reality. Houlton, Maine, you rock! We love this great little community!
Thank you for your continued support, and as always, thank you for reading our column.
