The Fur Ball - 'Paw-tying' for a cause
Published:Wednesday | January 24, 2018 | 12:00 AMJanet Silvera/Senior Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
Dressed to 'paw-ty' for a fantastic cause, animal lovers turned out in large numbers last Saturday night, for the inaugural Fur Ball, hosted to raise funds for the Montego Bay's Animal Haven.
A big-hearted Nicole De Lisser opened her fabulous Wharf House in Reading,St James, to fur-lovers who supported an art exhibition showcasing the work of some of the most talented artists in the country, while dancing up a storm to selections by the indomitable DJ Bambino.
Among the pieces on show were works by P.J. Stewart, Carl Abrahams, Patrick Waldemar, Jannette Eyles, Gene Pearson, Fiona Godfrey and Susan Clare.
Della Manley provided the musical backdrop for the exhibition, while silent auction items included stays in some of Jamaica's top villas and hotels, and a catamaran day trip.
Animal Haven's owner, Tammy Browne, hoped to raise $2.5 million from the event. The money will go towards the construction of a new home for the 180 dogs, rabbits, cats and birds in her care.
"We are building kennels, an education room, and vet surgery unit on 17 acres of land donated to us," Browne said.
According to the humanitarian who has given her life to fighting for the welfare of animals, when the shelter is completed, it will be the flagship of the Caribbean.
"It will be the shelter of all shelters; we are not only concentrating on the animals, but also training the people."
The haven, which is 100 per cent reliant on donations, received food and beverage for its fundraiser from companies such as Round Hill, Tryall, Sandals, Scotchies, Mystic Thai, Robbie Josephs, Kew Park, Rainforest Seafoods, MVP, CPJ and Select Brands.
A separate 'Muttito' bar, which was tempting to patrons, offered delicious signature cocktails by mojito specialist Kathy Robertson.