MVAS celebrates 25th anniversary
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Riverside Park filled with a large crowd of people and their furry friends on Sunday for the Mission Valley Animal Shelter’s thank you to the community party.
The organizers of the event seemed very pleased with the turnout and the number of volunteers.
“We wouldn’t be celebrating 25 years if it wasn’t for the support from the people in this community,” Jill Simpson, MVAS director said. “It’s nice to be able to give back.”
There were plenty of treats on hand for people, and the dogs wanted in on the action.
“Tink was trying to eat the cake, too, and I told her no,” Wendy Morin said, laughing, while holding her husband Tom’s dog. She also brought her dog, Duke.
Close-by was Kendra and Mark Becker, who adopted their 3-month-old puppy, Buck, from MVAS just two weeks ago. Buck was also very interested in the food, finding stray popcorn pieces in the grass.
As an advocate for animals receiving healthy and loving homes, Simpson said, “keeping them clean is keeping them healthy and getting them adopted.”
The mission of the non-profit shelter is to be “a voice for those who cannot speak,” and to work hard to promote responsible pet ownership, provide neuter assistance, and make every effort to help animals.
Nila Anderson, new MVAS board member, said she is really looking forward to working with the board. She sang a rendition of the song,
“How Much is that Doggie in the Window?” to advocate the importance of shelter adoption.
“We all had a great time,” Anderson said. “There were lots of folks,no rain, and plenty of dogs.”
Pat Binger agreed about the weather, which was slightly overcast, but comfortable.
“What a good turnout for the dogs, because it’s not such a hot day,” Binger said. Pat and her husband, Mac Binger, brought their 10-month-old purebred Doberman Pincher, Sudi, to socialize.
Rev. Edwina Aker, retired Episcopalian minister, blessed each dog by name to close the event, and said a prayer for all animals, and especially those who have ever been neglected or mistreated.
All proceeds from the fundraiser went to MVAS to raise money to care for the animals. Several prizes were given out, including a wellness exam gift certificate from Vet Care Montana, a $50 certificate from the Hair Port, a gift certificate from the First Resort, prizes from Three Dog Down, and various prizes from Polson Animal Clinic and South Shore Veterinary Clinic.
Ice cream was provided by The Cove Deli, and giant sheet cakes from Super One and Walmart.
Markie Mark’s Karaoke provided music and announcing, and sponsors for the event included Anderson Radio Broadcasting, Riverside Boat Rentals, and Total Screen Design.
