Toast for Animals is huge success
PET BULLETIN
‘Mews and Yips’ from the Central Aroostook Humane Society
By Gloria J. Towle
The sixth annual Toast for the Animals was a smashing success and an amazing fundraiser for the Central Aroostook Humane Society. This event is planned and put on annually by the CAHS board members.
Close to 200 people attended the event this year with many first-time guests arriving to see what all the excitement was about. Nearly $9,500 was raised, with part of the proceeds going to build a handicapped-accessible front entrance onto the shelter.
Because of the growing event, this year we teamed up with the University of Maine at Presque Isle Campus Center and Aramark and we report that we couldn’t have been happier with the outcome. Not only did we enjoy a larger venue, but the food and service were outstanding.
The wine and beer that were showcased were all from Maine breweries and wineries, giving the Toast-goers a sampling of products that had hops and ingredients that came right from Aroostook County. This year’s music was again provided by Carol Ayoob and Dan Morin. Their band, called Enigmatic North, played a variety of soft, easy listening music and the two kept folks in a festive mood all night long.
A slideshow of all the Toast sponsors and photos of adoptable animals available at the shelter ran throughout the evening, as well as shelter pet “success stories” that were lucky enough to find forever homes. This served as a reminder to 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 the many wonderful auction items. The silent auction featured over 120 lots, and brought in the lion’s share of the funds raised as attendees bid high, knowing the money was going to a worthy cause. The night also featured many door prizes and a 50/50 drawing. Lucky ticket holder Tricia Barnes generously donated most of the winnings back to the animals.
For those of you wondering about Pictures with Santa Paws: we have been under construction with replacing most of the interior and exterior doors, wall repair and finishing up the installation of our fire and security alarm system. We truly apologize that we will not be able to have Santa Paws during this time, but promise to be back next year bigger and better than ever!
If you are looking for a friend for life, please visit the Central Aroostook Humane Society. We are open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, closing for lunch from 12-12:30.. You can also check us out on petfinders.com and Facebook.
Please be responsible: spay and neuter your pets.
Gloria J. Towle is the secretary and a member of the Board of Directors of the Central Aroostook Humane Society.
