Out & About: Heal Animal Rescue hosts sold-out cash bash

Heal Animal Rescue has a long history of sold-out cash bashes, going back to the days when the organization was known as Animal Friends of Westmoreland.

The latest fundraiser drew about 300 attendees to Ferrante’s Lakeview in Hempfield on Feb. 11.

They were vying for a share of $8,100 in cash prizes, 41 baskets, six silent auction prizes and more goodies, marketing and volunteer coordinator Brittany Halinka said.

Proceeds support all aspects of the Heal mission, Executive Director Mary Withrow said.

Heal operates a no-kill shelter and adoption center in Youngwood, along with a farm animal sanctuary in Unity. Its outreach programs also include spay and neuter services and providing food to help people keep their animals at home.

Special guest for the evening was Rhyann, a white pit bull who is a permanent resident of the shelter because of separation anxiety issues that prevent her from being adopted.

Rhyann loves the attention showered on her at the cash bash, animal care manager Victoria Kontorsaid.

“She absorbs all the love she can,” Kontor said. “She thinks everyone is here for her.”

Greeters included adoption coordinator Gabi Kostley and volunteers Rhonda Begeman and Brian Root.

Seen: Justin Billy, Jackie Halus, Justine Long, Dashiel Harster and Kelli Brisbane, Dave and Carol Cassler, Regis and Cheri Klinchock, Clay Schoaf, Jynell May, Gary and Kim Crosby, Bonnie Halinka, Susan Vlasak and David Halinka.

Also, Michael and Stacy Hess, Marvin and Denise Shearer, Joe and Tracy Miscik, Bob and Hannah Hamilton, Kerry and Denise Dieter, Frank and Bonnie Servello, Matt Kapusta, Therasa Joseph, Lori Jones, Judy Grenaldo, Bill Felker and Steve and Sharon Friedel.