In spite of the
ongoing weak economy in the Inland Empire, the Riverside Humane Society Pet
Adoption Center raised $46,610 at its recent 12th Annual Comedy Night, a better
than 15 percent increase over the amount raised in 2008. The event, held
Sept. 25 at the Riverside Convention Center, attracted more than 300 guests who
enjoyed an evening of comedy, jugging, a silent auction, awards presentations
and refreshments.
This year's silent auction, which featured 50 items for all interests and
budgets, including a gourmet dinner and wine tasting for eight donated by
ForgottenGrapes.com and The Chef's Wife, realized 75 percent more money than
the previous year's auction.
Additionally, the raffle prize, a Las Vegas Phenomenal Phantom Show Package
which included a stay at The Venetian and tickets to "Phantom of the Opera" was
a hot item. The lucky winner, Jeanine Stonick of Temecula, will have the
use of a 2010 Jaguar to drive to Las Vegas, courtesy of Alvarez Jaguar, Lincoln
Mercury of Riverside.
"It's gratifying to know that in spite of tough economic times, people still
find it in their hearts to help us provide shelter and care for homeless
animals while they wait for their forever homes," said Gail Ousley, director of
development for the Riverside Humane Society. "We are so very grateful to those
who attended Comedy Night, bought raffle tickets, and donated products and
services to make the evening a wonderful success."
Special Recognition Awards Given
Paul and Patti Norris of Riverside were awarded this year's Albert Schweitzer
Humanitarian of the Year Award in recognition of their long-time devotion to
the animals at the Riverside Humane Society Pet Adoption Center. For many
years, the Norrises not only have donated money, but also dog beds and other material
goods to the Center. They have a particular fondness for animals in
desperate need, providing financial support for dogs like Noah, the weimaraner
found with gunshot wounds to the face, and Elaine, the three-legged akita.
Two individuals also were recognized for their professional contributions to
the Society: Greg Keehfuss, owner of Technical Computer Services of
Riverside, and Jean Clement, owner of Limelight, a public relations agency in
Menifee. Keehfuss received the Our Hero Award for his years of providing pro
bono computer services, including set up of the computer system in the new Pet
Adoption Center and ongoing maintenance. Clement was given the Our Heroine
Award for her pro bono public relations and marketing communications services, promotional
creativity, and development of relationships for the Society with the media.
The Riverside Humane Society Pet Adoption Center is a non-profit public benefit
charitable organization serving communities in Riverside County and beyond. As
the largest no-kill pet rescue organization in Riverside County, the Society
accepts owner turn-ins of cats and dogs and transfers from area animal-control
agencies. Prior to adoption, each animal is either spayed or neutered,
vaccinated, evaluated for behavior issues, and microchipped, as well as
monitored for physical, emotional and mental health, and receives ongoing
socialization. For more information, go to www.petsadoption.com or call
951-688-4340.
