IVINS — A live band, cat and dog mascots, door prizes and a silent auction are just a few things INKAS put together for their third annual fundraiser, The Fur & Purr Bash, which took place Saturday at the Red Mountain Resort. The goal: raise money to continue supporting homeless animals on the journey into loving homes.
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Videocast by Leanna Bergeron, St. George News
Artists donated pieces for the live and silent auctions of which all proceeds went towards INKAS’ efforts. Around 100 people attended the event, and the funds that were raised were significant.
“We’re way ahead of last year,” said INKAS Director, Barbara Rusick. “I can’t put a number on it yet, but we’re doing considerably better.”
The generous donations from this event will go towards everyday necessities for the animals including food, leashes, beds and veterinary care.
In attendance was INKAS new Honorary Spokesman, Dick Nourse, who said he is proud to put his support behind the nonprofit organization.
“When the opportunity came along and INKAS called me and asked if I would be a spokesperson for their facility,” Nourse said, “it took seconds before I said ‘sure.’ This is something I believe in.”
While live animals couldn’t make an appearance at the event, Tuacahn performers and INKAS volunteers Erica Bryce and Troy McGee offered to step in on their behalf.
“5 years ago we volunteered at the animal shelter,” said McGee. “at the end of the summer we ended up adopting one of the dogs and named him Ivins.”
The couple came dressed head-to-toe in makeup and costume as Muffins and Ruffy, the shelter’s temporarily appointed mascots. The two spent most of the night at the “selfie booth,” taking pictures with guests.
Local artists, gallery owners, animal lovers, and even the chief of police turned out to support the cause.
Author Valerie Anderson also introduced her new book at the event, titled ‘Quivers Second Chance.’ The book follows the story of a cat named “Quiver” who was shot with an arrow and made a miraculous recovery. Anderson adopted the cat and is now sharing her story with the world in hopes to spread awareness about animal cruelty.
Resources
- Visit INKAS website to see adoptable pets, get involved, or to make a donation.
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