31 pets adopted, more than $400,000 raised for the Humane Society of Tampa Bay
TAMPA, FLA (OCTOBER 16, 2017) – On Saturday, October 14, more than 1,000 animal lovers gathered at the Tampa Convention Center for the Humane Society of Tampa Bay’s annual Tuxes & Tails fundraising gala. The Rio de Carnaval themed event found homes for more than 31 pets and netted more than $400,000 for the shelter. More than 1,000 guests drank, dined, and danced into the night, making it one of Tampa Bay’s largest events of the year.
“We are so proud to throw one of the best parties in town,” said Humane Society of Tampa Bay Chief Executive Officer Sherry Silk. “Our staff, volunteers, sponsors, and committee members work exceptionally hard to make this event successful and it is all for one thing, the animals. The money raised will go to them. They’re the ones that matter.”
Guests enjoyed cocktails, silent auction, and more than 60 adoptable pets in a Brazilian atmosphere accompanied by the sultry sounds of samba. A high-energy conga line led guests from the pre-function festivities into the ballroom for dinner, live auction and a runway show featuring some of the adoptable pets. The Convention Center’s ballroom was transformed into a tropical paradise rich with vibrant color, palms, and fantastic carnaval characters from Dorene Collier’s Event Show Productions. An after-party at The Landing with dancing, complimentary cigars, Brazilian coffee, flambé station, and libations, closed the evening in style.
A successful event committee was led by Honorary Co-Chairs Beau Williams and Andrea Gonzmart Williams, 5th Generation Columbia Restaurant. FOX 13 News’ Cynthia Smoot and Russell Rhodes served as the evening’s Mistress and Master of Ceremonies. Ties & Tiara’s sponsor and HSTB Advisory Council member, Bobby Harris, gave the inspiring speech that motivated guests to raise their hands during the donation “ask”.
Best In Show Sponsors for the event were: The Brink Foundation, and An Anonymous Friend of the Animals. A complete list of sponsors can be found at TuxesAndTailsTampa.com. The 16thAnnual Tuxes & Tails will take place on October 13, 2018 from 5:30pm to 11:00pm at the Tampa Convention Center.
About the Humane Society of Tampa Bay
For more than 100 years, the Humane Society of Tampa Bay has been dedicated to ending animal homelessness and providing care and comfort for companion animals in need. Named a Four-Star Charity by Charity Navigator since 2008, designated a Platinum Participator with GuideStar, and accredited by AAHA, the standard in veterinary excellence, the Humane Society of Tampa Bay is dedicated to the highest standards in animal sheltering and veterinary care. Our adoption programs, affordable veterinary services, community outreach efforts and volunteer opportunities are essential to the health and wellbeing of animals across Tampa Bay.
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