BOCA RATON – Animal lovers recently returned to the Old West for Tri County Humane Society’s annual Doggie Ball fundraiser. The event raised more than $450,000 for needy animals.
All funds raised will go toward food, shelter and medical care for the thousands of homeless, abused and abandoned animals rescued each year by Tri County Humane Society, the no-kill animal shelter located on Boca Rio Road in Boca Raton.
Some 400 guests donned their western duds and gathered for a fun-filled evening at Boca West Country Club, which provided a five-star dinner and cocktail hour, capped by chocolate “dogs” and “cats” for dessert. Music by South Florida DJ “Boogie Brent” filled the dance floor and guests bid on hundreds of live and silent auction items.
Every lady received a silver and diamond Star Fish necklace donated by Arthur Benjamin of American Dog Rescue/The Arthur and Gail Benjamin Foundation, grand sponsor of the 2010 Doggie Ball.
Lauren Laponzina from WPTV Channel 5 was the emcee for the evening. Chairpersons were Suzi Goldsmith, Sharon Dipietro and Teri Mersentes. Sharon DiPietro made the centerpiece decorations showcased on each table.
Honorary chairpersons were Mike and Jodi Levy of Boca Raton. Honorary Grand Marshalls were Norma and Simon Fireman of Palm Beach. The honorary Grand Marshall Dog was Sir Lancelot Otto, whose parents are Nina & Edgar Otto of Boca Raton.
Honorary Guests were Harold and Nancy Pontius and George and Sandy Valassis.
A highlight of the evening was the announcement of a $50,000 donation from one of Tri County’s main benefactors.
Danielle Renfrew of Run A Way Films captured the entire event on film for an HBO documentary about Tri County Humane Society.
“Everyone at Tri County Humane Society is so grateful for all the wonderful people in our community who showed their support of the life-saving work we do all year long at the shelter,” said Jeannette Christos, founder and CEO of Tri County.
“It is their love, compassion and belief in saving abused and neglected animals that enables us to keep our doors open and continue this important work of helping the most vulnerable among us who cannot speak for themselves. We are also so thankful for the dedicated volunteers who worked tirelessly to make this year’s Doggie Ball so successful. We cannot possibly thank them enough for what they do for this shelter everyday of the year.”
For more information on Tri County Humane Society, contact the shelter at 561-482-8110.