We are thrilled to announce that our 9th annual Toast to the Animals was a smashing success and an amazing fundraiser for the Central Aroostook Humane Society. On Oct. 27 we experienced a tremendous amount of community support for this event and raised just over $9,100 — wow.
Again this year, we offered the options of either a $500 “Top Dog” or “Fat Cat” sponsorship, and we had five businesses and individuals step up, along with 30 $100 sponsors. Please check out our ad in this week’s paper for a complete list thanking our sponsors. Without their support, this event just couldn’t be possible.
This wine and beer tasting event is planned and put on annually by the board of directors and a few special friends. Again this year we teamed up with Betty Hersey from the Presque Isle Inn and Convention Center. Betty went above and beyond to make this event special for us. She provided us with very different and unique choices of wine and beer selections and the hors d’oeuvres that were served were incredibly delicious.
This year’s music was provided by Brian Mosher and Doug Cronkite of “Common Crossing.” They kept the crowd entertained and in a festive mood all night long. A beautiful slideshow, featuring shelter “success stories” that were lucky enough to find forever homes and also all the Toast sponsors, ran throughout the evening, reminding everyone of the real reason they had come to the Toast — to help animals in need.
The real heroes were the businesses and individuals who sponsored the Toast or donated auction items. The silent auction featured over 120 items, and brought in the lion’s share of the funds raised. Attendees bid high, knowing the money was going to a worthy cause. The night also featured many door prizes and a 50/50 drawing.
Much of the funds raised are designated for the continued care of the animals and needed supplies for the shelter. None of the success we experienced this year would have been possible without all the volunteers who worked so hard to bring the event to fruition. We truly appreciate each and every one of you.
Visit our Facebook page and check out the animals that are looking for new homes. We also receive many posts on missing or lost pets. Don’t hesitate to send the information to us so we can spread the word. Don’t forget a photo of your pet, the town/road/area where the pet is lost, and your telephone number. And always remember to drop us a quick message if your pet is found.
If you are looking for a friend for life, please visit the Central Aroostook Humane Society. We are open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, closing for lunch 12 – 12:30. Please be responsible: spay and neuter your pets!
“To make Heaven the perfect resting place for loved ones we adore, God made sure those Pearly Gates contained a doggy door.” (Anonymous)
Gloria J. Towle is the secretary and a member of the Board of Directors of the Central Aroostook Humane Society.
