Greyhound Garden Party celebrates spring and Adopt-a-Greyhound Month
The illustration on the flier for the upcoming Greyhound Garden Party says it all: “Love, Hope, Joy, Devotion.” That’s clearly the spirit of the upcoming celebration, happening Apr. 20, 6-9pm at George Morlan Design Center at NW 22nd and Raleigh in Portland.
Admission is $30/person, includes heavy hors d’oeuvres, and tons of fun — like a free photo booth, canine games, a no-host bar and chocolate fountain, plus “yappetizers” for the pups. All well-behaved dogs are welcome.
Fittingly, one of the most popular game at the event, which is in its 3rd year and aspiring to double funds raised last year to $7000, is Musical Toilets — in a nod to George Morlan’s generosity; the company has donated the venue space all three years.
Guide Dogs for the Blind, the DoveLewis Blood Bank and VCA Northwest Veterinary Specialists are expected to be on site, as will be Sparkle, who “owns” event coordinator and Greyhound Pet Adoption NW volunteer, Mary Beth Bartel. 10-year-old Sparkle (pictured) holds the title for the most units of blood donated at DoveLewis ever. She has donated 45 to date, and will retire from the blood bank program in July after giving 50 units.
Bartel says Greyhound Pet Adoption NW is unique in that it accepts any and all Greyhounds in need, regardless of medical or behavioral issues, and they are all cared for by loving foster families until placed in forever homes. The group always needs foster families, and in fact just accepted 20 new dogs, eight of whom are still in need of foster placement.
In addition to festivities, fun and games, Bartel says there will be raffles with multiple prizes every 20 minutes. “That’s how much we had contributed, and the prizes are wonderful — including overnights at Shilo and Hallmark Inns and more.” This year’s theme, “What dogs give back to humans,” also seems fitting — those who attend will not only support this worthy organization, but they’ll have a blast at the event, and go home with outstanding goodies and great memories. Learn more at gpa-nw.org.