http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com

In spite of being a local Chicoan, I had never been to Sierra Nevada Brewery before. When I served back east, I wore my Sierra Nevada sweatshirt proudly and occasionally I was asked if I was from Chico. Whenever I saw their beer in a movie (Waiting, etc) or on tap somewhere, I would say I'm from where that's brewed.

Although I couldn't dress up as much as I would have liked to, I felt there was much nostalgia upon entering the door to the brewery. People dressed to the theme of Roaring 20s as their elegance radiated throughout the 'Big Room'.

The event was hosted by a talented auctioneer (ALMOST as fast as a livestock auctioneer) and MC'd by BHS's own Executive Director Greg Lavin. It included live music by a wonderful band who donated their talents.

Many available adoptions, as well as thanks to local organizations, played continuously on a projected screen behind the band.

The auction portion included silent bidding, live bidding, and monetary outbidding on a many variety of items donated by local businesses, including over $1,500 in services I donated. (Thank you Greg for the honorable mention, it nearly brought tears to my eyes).

Donations ranged from extraordinary pet art work to carpet cleaning, an array of pet essentials, veterinarian donations, as well as clothing, cruises, wine packages, coffee, and much, much more.

There was an entire table of desserts, from which I almost took a cookie (thankfully I resisted temptation, because they were for bidding on!). 3/4ths of the Tiramisu went for over $400. The other 1/4th went back up for auction and received another $200 despite being consumed. Many combined raffle tickets to bid on desserts and shared with their neighbors.

Overall the event was a TRUE display of ALTRUISM (unselfish concern for the well being of others, in this case, local abandoned pets).

Kim Thompson, Heather Schoeppach, and Lindsay Kingman, as well as their many dedicated volunteers, made my experience memorable enough for me to consider being an annual contributor, but no one appreciates their contributions as much as the animals they help every day. And thanks to the many, many generous donations, cats and dogs in our local community will greatly benefit.

I hope that you share this with others or share your experience of the event and encourage those with pets to attend next year.

Classes are postponed until March, however private weekly sessions are available.

Why pay millions for a super bowl advertisement to thank our troops when that money could be spent on healthcare and other areas that would directly benefit a soldier.

By the way NFL, you're welcome, thanks for the commercial while the DOD is screwing thousands of soldiers like me on their benefits.

What's new at PPL:  -Obedience classes start February 4th, email for registration information -Butte Humane Society is having its Valentine's Dinner and Auction.  I donated over $1,500 in free services and training for raffle/auction so get your tickets here for only $45 and don't miss the biggest pet event of the year! -February 3rd is Animal Planet's Puppy Bowl IV.  Check for local listings. -Signs and clickers will be placed in the humane society soon to help minimize unwanted behavior.  This project is a donation from PPL. -Dog Scouts orientations Feb. 2nd and 9th at 10am in Upper Park. -Our newsletter is going out soon, sign up through email for local discounts and more -The new owners of the puppies have enjoyed their puppy programs! -The three sweetest pups of the litter are the only three left!