Four-footed friends benefited from fund-raisers

Barking up a storm of fun Saturday night were adults of all ages at the Dealin' For Dogs fund-raiser in support of Assistance Dogs of America, Inc.

The event was held at Hanson, Inc., in Arrowhead Park under giant tents with plenty of space and lots to do. The casino area was filled with guests playing poker, roulette, and blackjack with gaming chips, just for fun.

Others shopped a silent auction. And who could resist buying raffle tickets when there were so many great prizes? Or how about the 50/50 cash raffles?

Jenni Yoder with a puppy at the Dealin For Dogs fund-raiser.

Mesmerizing everyone as he meandered through the crowd was Pattrick the Magician. His wife, Rita, was there, too, and jokingly said of the dog bones scattered on tables as part of the centerpieces, "You know, these are edible." And doggone if someone ate one just to see other people's reaction!

Strolling through the crowd were several assistance dogs that caught guests' attention because they were so well-behaved and friendly, although those in the know don't pet the dogs without asking. Breck Davis was there with his assistance dog, Jett. Tyler Yoder brought his dog, Tucker, and Gary Johnson was with his dog, Brady.

In another tent there were tasty items from City-Q-BBQ, including pulled pork, beef brisket, corn pudding, and more.

Of course, the dog-bone-shaped cookies, made by volunteers, were the real hit with those with a sweet tooth.

The only time the casino action stopped was when the live auction cranked up, erupting in bidding wars for Maui and Grand Cayman vacations, Ohio State/Michigan football tickets, and a diamond ring.

Those in the know stayed until the door prize for two airline tickets to Tampa, along with hotel, car rental, and tickets to Busch Gardens, was drawn; the winner was David Kosh. Anne O'Shea won the grand raffle prize, a diamond necklace from J. Foster Jewelers.

Then several hit the dance floor as the The Homewreckers band filled the air with tunes.

Yes, it was a doggone good night. That's thanks to Karen Bade, chairman, and a host of sponsors, volunteers, and staffers, including Jenni Yoder, board president.

Among the crown of more than 400 were Harry and Jenny Barlos - he was debating whether to become a foster family for assistance dogs in training. Patty Jo Fantozz was there, too. Tim Yoder was busy all night tending to details, while Larry Borden volunteered as a dealer. Guests included Keith Burwell, Jane and Steve Wurth, Bart Susor and Jan Fieweger, and Ralph and Karen DeNune.

The estimated net is $20,000, but they are still counting.

ALSO gathering in the name of man's best friend and other furry pets were 125 guests on Aug. 22 at the annual Toledo Animal Shelter picnic at Belmont Country Club. The sultry night started on the terrace, then guests moved indoors for dinner. No gourmet food - instead, picnic favorites were served, including hot dogs, burgers, chicken, salads, and an ice cream sundae bar.

Pianist Kevin Korecki entertained.

Event chairman was Bonnie Milano, assisted by Linda McBee, who handled the auction.

Chatter stopped only long enough for the invocation by Jeff Millns, a hello from auxiliary president Nancy Ligibel, and a few introductions, including Jack Fynes, board president of the shelter. Special recognition was given to Kate Adams-Nameche for her years of dedication to the auxiliary. She started the doggy bag express fund-raiser.

Several past auxiliary presidents were present, including Jean Smith, Pat Hunter, and Grace Christopher. Barney Stickles, past shelter board president, was there, too.

Guests included Ken and Linda White, Marshall Isenberg, Barbara Baker, Don Knepper, Dortha and Jerry Baum, Marlene Uhler, Becky Furhman and Don Leary, Marie Vogt, Bill Coin, Pam Roberts, Pat and Allen Timmerman, John Vance, Ron Coffman and Sharon Simmons, Carol Arnold, Fifi Berry, Joni and Tom Fought, and Hank Werner and his wife Jackie Rousseau Werner, who was busy selling animal shelter items, George Carruth items, and gourmet nuts. The shelter would like to thank the woman who won the 50/50 cash raffle and donated half of it back, but she slipped out before they could get her name.

The reunion of friends netted about $2,500.