'Fur Ball' a night to support Yuma's animals

Fur balls are part of a cat's life, but the "Fur Ball" that's coming up Saturday evening promises to be one of entertainment and a way to show support for the Humane Society of Yuma's new shelter building fund.

   Only a few tickets are still available for a social event that has a special meaning for animal lovers. Reservations are due Wednesday by calling 782-1621 Ext. 8 by 5 p.m.

   Tickets for the HSOY event at the Sonoran Pueblo Banquet Hall at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma are $150 per person.

  "There will be dinner, cocktails, music for dancing by the Groovin' Hard band that performed for us in 2007. Our live auction items are varied, and have been donated by individuals and businesses," said Crystyn Weil, chairwoman for the building fund."We have a goal to break ground for the new shelter in October 2009. The shelter will be at 40th Street and Avenue 4-1/2E, ground donated by the Glen Curtis family and Sam Perricone," Weil said.

  Among the live auction items are:

• A John Deere 7930 pedal tractor with detachable trailer, donated by RDO Equipment;

• "Galaxy" an original "painted" with nontoxic watercolors by Shawn Kammann's "Picasso," the late, blind African Sulcata Tortoise;

• A skin rejuvenation package donated by Avanti Skin Care Center;

• For the party night only, a six-person limousine service from 10 p.m. Saturday to 2 a.m. Sunday, by Jed Limousine;

• Media advertising package: $2,000 advertising, in-kind dollars at KYMA; $1,000 advertising, in-kind by El Dorado Broadcasting, and a one-month 12 x 24 billboard by Lamar Advertising;

• Same day round-trip flight for up to eight individuals on a private plane to one of these destinations: San Diego, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Palm Springsor comparable location;

• Dedicate the flag pole at the new HSOY shelter for self, a loved one or beloved pet;

• Wine tasting for eight, with Napa Valley wines at the Old Town Wine Cellar with appetizers from My Chef and desserts by Melba Wagner and Karin Griffin;

• Lady's amethyst, square green stone in 14-karat white gold from Paul Bensel;

• "Striped Tabby," a 40- by 40-inch original work by Gary Stephens, commissioned for the HSOY new shelter project. Framed by Teri Did It.

 Auctioneer is Phil Seward of Smart Auctions and Appraisals. Brad Wills will be the master of ceremonies.

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Pam M. Smith can be reached at psmith@yumasun.com or 539-6856.