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Gloucester-Mathews Humane Society Hosts Most Successful Gala & Auction to Date

On Saturday, January 26, animal lovers from throughout the region took to The Abingdon Ruritan Club for Gloucester-Mathews Humane Society's Mad Hatter Gala & Auction, the organization's premier fundraiser. As GMHS receives limited funding from local governments, the shelter and homeless pets whose lives they save depend largely on the event's success, and Saturday's event did not disappoint. In fact, it was GMHS' most successful auction to date.

 

On Saturday, January 26, animal lovers from throughout the region took to The Abingdon Ruritan Club for Gloucester-Mathews Humane Society's Mad Hatter Gala & Auction, the organization's premier fundraiser. As GMHS receives limited funding from local governments, the shelter and homeless pets whose lives they save depend largely on the event's success, and Saturday's event did not disappoint. In fact, it was GMHS' most successful auction to date.

 

As guests arrived, they were greeted by a stunning display of vines, ivy and flowers--evocative of the rabbit hole from "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland”--and tables were adorned with whimsical Mad Hatter centerpieces, artfully crafted by Auction Committee Member Mike Ivey. Many guests fully embraced the event's Mad Hatter theme, donning their own take on the Mad Hatter's millinery, including Auction Committee Member Walt Evaniak and Cam Williams (left to right) who arrived dressed to impress.

 

As Auction Coordinator Joyce Richter describes the event, "Perhaps it was the magic of the 'rabbit hole' entrance created by a very talented decorating committee or the delectable food our guests encountered on reaching 'Wonderland,' but there was more electricity in the air at this gala than I’ve ever seen. GMHS supporters--many sporting Mad Hatter hats or fascinators--delighted in the array of auction items, and enthusiastically urged on the bidding during the live auction."

 

During the event, guests were treated to a fantastic array of passed and stationary hors d'oeuvres; a fabulous dinner spread, including beef tenderloin and vegetarian options; and a delicious assortment of desserts, ranging from cookies to miniature Key Lime pies.  

 

Blacktie Benefit Auctions "Dream Team" of Lead Auctioneer Ernie Rogers and Lead Floor Auctioneer Dave Henderson generated excitement during the silent and live auction portions of the evening, motivating attendees to bid high in the name of saving homeless pets. Among some of the most sought after auction offerings were an eight-day, seven-night stay at The Buccaneer in St. Croix, USVI. Also in high demand were an American Chestnut bench handcrafted by GMHS Board of Directors Member Dr. Richard Crowder and a professional recording session at WXGM studios with Jay Hutchins, of Brent & Becky's Bulbs. In fact, these two offerings were so popular, Crowder and Hutchins agreed to offer an additional bend and recording session, respectively, to benefit GMHS.

 

After the auction concluded, Gloucester's own Good Shot Judy took to the stage. They inspired folks to make their way to the dance floor, where many remained until the evening wrapped up, and they played favorites from Frank Sinatra, Etta James and Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons.

 

All proceeds from the event will benefit GMHS and be used to save the lives of homeless pets in the organization’s service region, which runs from the Northern Neck to the Peninsula. GMHS’ Platinum GuideStar rating and allocation of 12% of its budget for administrative and fundraising expenses afford supporters confidence in the organization’s stewardship of their contributions.

 

About Gloucester-Mathews Humane Society

 

Gloucester-Mathews Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to “improving life for all animals by providing shelter, compassionate care, community assistance and education.” Founded in 1912 in Gloucester, Virginia, GMHS provides services for people in the Peninsula, Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck through adoptions, educational programs, a pet pantry and low-cost spay/neuter programs both onsite and throughout the community. GMHS is registered with the Commonwealth of Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services under federal tax ID#51-020623. Registration does not imply endorsement. 

 

For more information, visit:

· GMHS on the web: http://www.gmhumanesociety.org/

· GMHS on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gmhumanesociety

· GMHS on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gmhumanesociety/



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