Find yourself turning in a circle three times before lying down? That’s because it’s almost time for Howling at the Moon — the big fall fundraiser for the Animal Welfare Alliance. The 14th annual Howling at the Moon is set for 6-10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 3, at the Westwood Center in Poplar Bluff.
AWA operates a regional no-kill animal shelter serving Butler, Carter, Ripley and Wayne counties and receives no government subsidies.
“It costs us up to $20,000 a month to operate. So we need folks to come out to our party, have a great time, and help support us,” said AWA President Marge Van Praag. “Howling is always the best party in town anyhow, and lots of fun.”
The fundraiser features a full dinner catered by Tasteful Creations, complimentary beer and wine coolers courtesy of the Wil Fischer Distributing Co. and Budweiser, live music by the Millstones, dancing, a silent auction, various raffles and a howling contest with small prizes — all for just $40 per person.
Event tickets can be bought at the door Nov. 3 or in advance at the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce, Key Drugs, the AWA No-Kill Shelter at 1904 S. Westwood Blvd. or online at awasemo.org.
“Howling at the Moon could never take place without the help of our sponsors,” said Van Praag.
In addition to the Wil Fischer Co., Event Sponsors are: Coffman & Co. — Your CPA, Hicks Animal Hospital, Hillcrest Animal Hospital, Key Drugs and Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, all of Poplar Bluff.
Gold Sponsors are: Captain D’s Seafood Restaurant in Doniphan, Dr. Preston Jones and Lisa Reynolds Insurance, both of Poplar Bluff.
Silver Sponsors are: The Dental Arts Group – The Blaich Family, Dr. Carrie Carda, First Midwest Bank, Parks Animal Care Center and Whitworth’s Gift Chest Jewelers, all of Poplar Bluff.
Lower level sponsors will be recognized at the event.
In addition to running its shelter, AWA spends up to $2,000 a month on programs. AWA works with Haven House, the VA, Recycling Grace and the United Gospel Rescue Mission to temporarily care for the pets of individuals while they seek treatment or shelter. With the cooperation of Poplar Bluff’s animal control officers, AWA helps provide vaccinations for puppies in the city shelter. The group also provides $50 vouchers for qualifying pet owners needing help with spay/neuter costs. Since beginning operations in 2009, AWA has spent more than $130,000 helping to alter area cats and dogs.
Those interested in volunteering with the AWA can call the shelter at 573-840-0664.
More information about the organization or Howling at the Moon is available online at awasemo.org and facebook.com/awasemo.