ANIMAL FOUNDATION OF GREAT FALLS NEWSLETTER SUMMER 2012

In less than six months, the Margaret J. Maclean Animal Welfare Center has transformed from a skeleton of steel and concrete into the beautiful structure now standing across from North Middle School Fostering a caring community for that will be a temporary home for animals by providing shelter, advancing animals in need. animal welfare, and promoting the Story con tinues on page 2 bond between animals and humans through innovative programs, education and service. A Challenge to the Community

At the end of May, a local couple, who wishes to remain anonymous, offered $100,000 to the building project if the community donates an equal amount by the end of this year.

The construction of the Animal Welfare Center by the May 20 12 Spay Neuter Clinic Story on page 11 Animal Foundation is well under way. When completed, it “ will bring hope to animals in need of care, and comfort to those humans who wish to serve that need. Hope in itself is timeless, but the establishment of hope is time sensitive. Each day that passes without the completion of this Center is one more day of diminished help for our animal companions. This task is urgent. Let us all do what we can to make this Animal Welfare Center a reality.

Please help us meet the challenge of raising $100,000 for the building and let this generous matching gift double y”our donation. To qualify, contributions should be made payable to the Animal Foundation of Great Falls and marked “Building Fund.” PHOTOS BY PAM LEMELIN

Francesca McWilliams reads to Lucy the Pug. More on page 10

JOSHUA KODIS PHOTO COURTESY OF THE GREAT FALLS TRIBUNE greatfallstribune.com PAM LEMELIN Story continued from cover page

We are grateful to our friends at Sletten Construction for their expert work as the general contractor. Phase Two (the building shell) is now complete and we also thank subcontractors and suppliers who were involved: Anderson Glass, Anderson Steel, AT Klemens, Boettcher Paint, Cascade Electric, Cooper Construction, Doors & Hardware, Fagenstrom, JK Fabrication, Johnson-Madison Lumber, Klinefelter Insulation, Premier SIPS, S&H Aluminum, Teton Steel, Tri-County Mechanical, United Materials and WMK . Most of the subcontractors donated a portion of their profit, which reduced the overall cost of Phase Two by nearly $15,000. Phase Three, which includes all of the mechanical systems, wiring, insulation, plumbing and finishing most of the interior spaces, is estimated to cost approximately $2.5 million. When this phase is complete, the center will be CINDY CIELUCH PHOTOGRAPHY ready to open to the public and provide temporary housing for cats and dogs in need of new homes. To maintain progress on the building while we continue to raise funds, Phase Three is being split into smaller sub-phases (3-A includes completion of the interior walls and doors and is currently underway).

Help us Meet the $100,000 Challenge! Caring for homeless cats and dogs like Shaq & Penny. Every donation, large or small, helps us meet the challenge and finish the animal welfare center. Please give what you can!

Name (please print)

PAM LEMELIN Address See for yourself. Tour the City / State / Zip SS Jul 2012 Animal Welfare Center! Phone Would you like to see the new building in progress? Join us for a tour of the animal welfare center and see for yourself what your contributions are making possible. Email Please call 727-7387 to reserve a spot at one of our upcoming Tuesday tours or to schedule one at your Amount convenience. Tours are currently scheduled to take place at 5:30 pm on the following dates:

Credit Card Number Expires TUESDAY TOURS July 10 and 24 August 7 and 21 Signature September 11 and 25 Please make checks payable to the Animal Foundation and write October 9 and 23 Building Fund on the memo line. November 13 Mail to P.O. Box 3426, Great Falls, MT 59403 Space is limited, so please let us know which tour you You can also donate on our website: theanimalfoundation.org will be attending. NOTE: For safety reasons, no children under age 16 can be allowed on the construction site.

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8 Main 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Entry 9 Filing & 400 10 Office Mailroom Office Elec trica l Incoming 402 403 404 503 Kittens 109 Incoming Dogs 20 0 Lobb y Bench 1 Office 401 Incoming 40 5-1 Mecha nica l 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Comm un ity 407 Room Cats 110 Education 504 406 Recep tion Education Center Patio Education H all 408 412 405 All Animal Public H all 413 Incoming Animal H all 300 East Entry 301 Hall Men’ s 411 Cat Hold Restroom Bench 2 Women’ s Adoption Cat Evaluation / Restroom 108 Laundry Iso 40 5-2 Storage 410 Office Medical 409 302 111 303 414 Storage 415 Dog Hold 417 201 # Volunteer Area 416 Dog Iso Kennel 1 Grooming 306 22 9-1 Visiting Storage Ja nitor Storage Is o 304 # 202 505 506 229 Is o Kennel 2 Medical Shower 22 9-2 H all 307 Lock ers 305 308 West North Viewing H all 419 Cat Viewing Hall Condo s East 418 Food Prep Hall West 101 Dog Dog Dog Dog Dog Viewin g 309 Cat Suite Suite Suite Suite Suite Hall Viewing 206 207 208 209 210 Hall 420 Food Prep 100 310 Storage Visiting Dog West Dog East Dog 312 Suite Cou rtyard Suite Cou rtyard Suite 102 211 203 Hall 205 212 Food Storage Capital Ideas 204 311 South Cat V iewing Hall 103 Dog Dog Dog Dog Dog There are still many options available for sponsored Suite Suite Suite Suite Suite Cat Cat 213 214 215 216 217 areas in the new building or on the grounds of the Colon y Colon y 104 105 South Viewing H all 421 Margaret J. Maclean Animal Welfare Center. Southea st Patio 423 New capital campaign gifts also qualify for matching Outd oor Out door Southw est Cat Cat Patio Training & funds. Commemorate a loved one or pet by choosing Ar ea Ar ea 422 Exe rcise 106 107 218 a naming opportunity ranging from $1,200 for a n lan dsca ping tree to $25,000 for a large area. Call 727- P ETS for more information on rooms and Dog Dog Dog Dog Run Run Run Run spaces st ill availab le. S 220-1 220-2 220- 3 220- 4 Outdoor Dog Area 220 13 Dog Runs

Boulevard Area 507 Monument Sign 508 Dog Dog Dog Dog Dog Dog Dog Dog Dog Run Run Run Run Run Run Run Run Run 221-1 221-2 221-3 221-4 221-5 221-6 221-7 221-8 221-9

North Parking Area 509 Flag 510 511 Poles 512

BuildingB Frontage 513 EastEEaa Parking Area 514

Futuree EExpansionEx nsion

MemorialMemmomorial Gardenarden 515

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Arbor 515-8 South Area 516

Trees 517517 - 1 through 50 Fur Ball 2012

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Our Eighth Annual Fur Ball benefit dinner of animals For the love was held on April 21 at the Heritage Inn. The event is traditionally a fun-filled Purple Paw Award evening bringing animal lovers together to enjoy great food, friends and live and silent auctions all for the benefit of the

l Margaret J. Maclean Animal Welfare ual Fur Bal Eighth Ann Center. This year was no exception. As with any non-profit event, we are constantly trying to keep the evening fresh and new without straying too far from the recipe that has made the Fur Ball so successful in the past. This year we added some fresh faces (and even a couple of gentlemen) to the committee and we welcomed their insight. Highlights of the evening included a “personal” welcome by Master of Ceremonies, Mark Higgins, the Animal Foundation video For the Love of Animals , a raffle for a $1000 travel voucher on Delta, and some incredible auction items, including one week at a condominium in Big Sky, a Denver Bronco weekend getaway for two, a Missouri River dinner cruise and a scotch tasting party, to name a few. We are thrilled to report that this year’s Fur Ball exceeded all expectations. In addition to selling out the evening, we had our most successful event thus far. Thanks in large part to our headline sponsors –Flawless Auto Body, Great Falls Teachers Federal Credit Union, Pacific Steel & Recycling and Sletten Companies –we shattered our goal and raised E ach year as part of the Fur Ball program, the over $68,000! We could not have done it without the Purple Paw is awarded to an animal for illustrating hard work of a fantastic committee (many of whom have the powerful bond between animals and humans or been deeply involved in the event since its inception), performing an act of heroism. The 2012 winner of tireless volunteers and the generosity and support of the this honor was Crockett, a dog who saved her event donors and attendees. owner from the bite of a rattlesnake. Thank you for all of your support. We hope to see you Crockett’s story is told on the facing page. next year at the Ninth Annual Fur Ball! –Katie & Jeremiah Johnson

Plan ahead and save the date for next year’s Fur Ball: April 20, 2013. FUR BALL 2012 ABOUT OUR BOARD 1 Lisa Hudecek watches the “For the Love of Animals” video. Lisa’s cat, Stanley, was a finalist for the Pam Guschausky , President, is a partner at the accounting Purple Paw Award. 2 Charles Rossell was one of several animal lovers featured in the video program. firm Anderson Zurmuehlen (formerly Hamilton Misfeldt). 3 Fur Ball Committee members pose for a minute before the festivities began! 4 Jayme Watson won She has one grown son, Andrew, two rescued dogs, one senior cat, and a few young rescued cats. the bidding for the beautiful Lisa Easton bench. PHOTO CREDITS: 1 & 2: PAM LEMELIN; 3 & 4: CINDY CIELUCH PHOTOGRAPHY Sara Sexe , Vice President, is a lawyer and shareholder in the firm of Marra, Sexe, Evenson & Bell, PC. She and her husband, Doug, have a daughter, a son, and a dog named Bear. PURPLE PAW FINALIST Stanley cat wasn’t able to Stu Nicholson , Treasurer, is a former chief financial officer for Davidson Companies and former trustee for the Great attend the Fur Ball with his Falls Public Schools. Stu has three sons and three stepsons favorite human, Lisa Hudecek, from a previous marriage. He and his wife, Janie, live with but he attends many other Murphy, a six-year-old Bichon Frisé who runs the household. events and visits schools to Coleen Balzarini is the financial officer for McLaughlin help kids learn about humane Research Institute and serves on the Board of Montana treatment of animals. Federal Credit Union. Coleen has three grown sons and Earlier this year, Stanley ten grandchildren. While Coleen and her husband, Tom, do not have pets in residence, they are often visited by attended the prize party her parents’ Pomeranian, Peanut. for Strut Your Mutt. John Huber is a financial consultan t with D .A. Davidson & Company. John and his wife, Mary, have six children and a seven-year-old golden retriever named Rossi. Bob James is a partner in the law firm of Ugrin, Alexander, Zadick & Higgins and has been a trial lawyer for 35 years. Bob and his wife, Cindy, have five grown PAM LEMELIN children, two kittens, and two dogs. Whitney Olson is the vice president of Bison Ford. Her husband, Doug Little, is an educator and coach. It was a quiet Monday morning at Tiber Lake on August 8, 2 011. Weekend campers had left They share their home with two retired racing for the work week, but Christi Fisher and her dog, Crockett, were on vacation and taking greyhounds, Carson and Ellie, and are active cat and advantage of the time to fish. Crockett is a golden field retriever who loves fishing! She dog foster care providers. watches each line for a strike and eagerly anticipates the moment the fish is hauled into Owen Robinson , president of both Lumber Yard Supply the boat so she can give it big licks before it is stowed away. It was around 10 am and after and Flawless Auto Body, has been a community volunteer about 5 hours in the boat, Christi was drowsy. She heard a big commotion in the back of for 35 years. He and his wife, Gayle, share their home with two active, older dogs, Pyper and TJ. the boat and Crockett quickly scampered forward. Checking out the situation, Christi found Gene Thayer has a distinguished record of community a large rattlesnake had climbed about halfway into her boat – and it was a big snake! leadership, formerly serving as mayor of Great Falls and as a Now, Christi is not a fan of snakes, and she reported that her first reaction was anger. Montana state senator. He and his wife Jane have four She thought to herself, “What are you doing trying to get in this boat, Mister? I’ll show you!” children and five grandchildren. Trustee since April, 2 012. She toyed with the idea of trying to get a photo of the snake, but quickly decided against Ray Wahlert is the retired CEO of Pacific Steel & Recycling. that and grabbed a light pole to lift the snake and maneuver it back out of the boat. Ray and his wife Lynne reside on a small ranch near Belt, MT , area with their shelter dog, Buddy, and two shelter cats, Because it had been in the water, the snake was sluggish, but striking savagely at the light Boots and Tortalini. Trustee since February, 2 012. pole. It took significant effort, with the light pole bending from the weight of the big rattler – Christi estimates he was about 4½ feet long and as big around as an apple –but she finally won the battle and landed the snake back in the water. Within a few minutes, it was trying EXECUTIVE to get back in her boat, so Christi decided to move to another area of the lake. DIRECTOR Ellen Gauthier As she fired up the boat, Crockett moved over and laid her head in Christi’s lap. It was then that Christi noticed blood on Crockett’s face and swelling around her eye. They were about ten miles from camp, so Christi quickly turned the boat for shore. By the time they reached the campsite, Crockett’s eyes were swollen shut. Christi helped her into the car We’re and turned on the air conditioning, thinking that the cool temperature might slow down on the the venom’s progress through Crockett’s body. Madly throwing all the camp gear into the car and loading the boat onto the trailer, they took off at high speed. As soon as she had Web! cell reception, Christi made calls to try to locate the nearest veterinarian. To her dismay, she www. theanimalfoundation .org discovered driving all the way back to Great Falls was the only option. That two-plus-hour Check us out on our website. We have tons trip was a harrowing experience, with Christi torn of information about our projects and how between driving as fast as possible and wanting to stop you can help. You can contribute to the and comfort her beloved dog. She was afraid Crockett capital fund drive online with your credit card. may not live long enough to get care, and realized that Go to our web site using Crockett certainly saved her life by intervening with your mobile device or smartphone by the snake. scanning this code. Crockett survived and graciously accepted the Purple Paw Award at the 2012 Fur Ball. And by the way, she still loves fishing! Like us at: PHOTOS OF CROCKETT COURTESY CHRISTI FISHER Facebook.com/animalfoundationgf 5 Membership MATTERS! Please join us and help dogs and cats. Our membership program was initiated in 2009 as a means of If you are not a current member, please consider joining today supporting our most priority projects and having a reliable by mailing your check in the attached return envelope. source of operating funds. Thank you, current members, for Please call 727-PETS if you have questions about our using this means to help make a difference for animals in our membership program. community. Membership is one more way to Choose the membership level that’s right for you: ensure the Margaret J. Maclean Animal Welfare Center is completed as soon Platinum Paw $500 and up as possible. Golden Paw $250 - $499 $ $ New for 2012 – we will send every Silver Paw 10 0 - 249 new and renewing member our Bronze Paw $50 - $99 “For the love of animals” window cling! Friend of the Foundation $10 - $49 Businesses can choose to join at the Silver Paw level or above.

CURRENT MEMBERS

PLATINUM Glenda Evans BRONZE FOUNDATION FRIEND John Kelly Louise Belt A.W. Fitzpatrick Cyndi Baker Nicole Albertson-Nuanes Sandra & Bill Kempa Dr. Benny & Karen Brandvold Shirley Forbes Sarah Bower & Tom Crane Dr. & Mrs. F. John Allaire Judith Lee Ed & Laura Crotty Bruce & Karen Gaare Barbara Brewer Charles & Judith Astrin Beverly LeMieux Wendy & Andrew Davidson Ellen Gauthier Bob & Kerry Bronson Alva & Connie Bernard Debbie Matless Davidson Companies Eve Gerasimou Bruce & Judy Buer Danita Bistodeau Patricia McCall Ed & Carolyn Dolezal David Gorton Linda Campbell Melba Booth Karen McElroy Tim Gilligan, DVM Stephen Gunderson Greg & Debra Corn Gayle Boule Bob & Jackie McLeod Judy Gretch Jim & Cheryl Hirose Kelli & Shawn Dawson Branch & Sherry Brady Shirley & Duane Menghini Pam Guschausky Brenda Horn Bob & Carolyn Dolderer Donna Brandon Robert Meyers Channing & Donna Hartelius Edward Hull Tom & Cindie Duffy Robert & Amy Broden Elizabeth Murphy Jim & Teresa Hodges Rick & Lisa Hurley Erney & Ann Bennett Edwards Pat Bushly-Johnson Marvin & Diane Nelson Kristina Howell Gary & "Dimmer" Kjelsrud Bill & Marie Gamradt Tom Cave Jack Osweiler John & Mary Huber Ed & Catherine Lara Charles & Darlene Gardner Bill & Gloria Collins Devan Patch Joni Schaper & Kevin Jackson Toni & Roger Larson Hannah Giskaas Andree Deligdisch Melton Pate Bob & Cindy James William & Pam Lundberg Mark & Patty Higgins Marilu Dougherty Sharon Patton-Griffin Sherry & John Kauffman Robert & Catlin Marcinek Patricia Hosley Tammy Evans Verna & Herb Penner Stu & Janie Nicholson Barbara Mikkelson Carolyn Huber Harold & Adel Faler Leslie Poletto Whitney Olson & Doug Little Neal & Mary Jane Mishler Lisa Hudecek Randy & Patricia Fisher Julie Ramsey Owen Robinson John & Betty Mora Gordon & Judy Hunt Virginia Flesch Norene Rash Gayle Robinson Orloff & Dona Morrow Kelly Johnson Ross & Phyllis Floyd Mary Romsa Ruth Royal Grace Myers Carol & Steve Jonas Don & Elaine Forbeck Doug & Lynn Ryerson Thad & Su Suits Dr. Robin & Judy Neil Theodore Kline Donna Fornfeist David & Vivian Schuler Dr. Bill Tacke & Barb Teberg Katie Nelson Kris & Kitty Knaphus Roger & Mardelle Fromm Bruce Selin Dr. Nick Bonfilio & Deb Thatcher Carol Oja Janet Lee Layne Donald Hagen Robert Slater Gary Lynn Olson Phyllis Lee Lloyd & Lori Hagen Mac Smith GOLD Michael & Elissa Orcutt Pam Lemelin Glenda Sue Hanna Nancy Snow Donna Barlow Mark Ozog Jason & Christi Levine Gayle & Carl Heishman Judy & Rich Souders Bison Ford Bob & Bonnie Pancich Rebecca Lozano P. J. Horning Catherine & John Steele Don & Cherie Johnson Lola Pygott Nano McCluskey Don & Sharon Howarth Phil Stephenson Tom & Debra Lewis Catherine Reid Joyce & Sherman Mills Alexa Huber Emma & Griffin Terry Larry & Anne Martinez Roberts Family Foundation Jeff & Jolene Monheim Halle Huber Cheryl Tuck Rocky Mountain Sleep Disorders Harry & Nancy Roch Andrea Moss Luke Huber Cheryl Wagner Center Juanita Rollins Brenda & Steven Neiffer Deloris Johns Richard & Carol Whitmore Sue Schleif Betsy Rushworth William & Frances Oswald Ike Kaufman Dorothy Willits Karel Shane Marian Setter Virginia Piatt Hedda & John Wolfe Doug & Sara Sexe Jean Price SILVER David & Shirley Shane Dawn & Matt Reitz Joe & Lillian Aberle Genevieve Shannon Gil & Evelyn Schaefer Jim & Glenda Alexander Fred & Jo Shauer Richard Schrader Steen Alme Stephen Spencer, DDS Kathleen Shryne Tim & Christy Austin, Deb & Roger Spring Kathy & Ray Simonsen Austin Designs Dona & Grant Stebbins Frank & Lois Stimac Mark & Martha Cappis Ugrin, Alexander, Zadick & Higgins Ken & Margaret Swisher Adam & Eleanor Carroll Greg & Cheryl Ulmer John & Sandra Vanni Melvin & Peggy Champion Susan & Jim Voegele Jan Vinci Homeless and abandoned, Helen Comer Roy & Diane Volk Jim & Jane Weber these animals need a Davidson Team Carolyn Walter Clair Zion better temporary home. Huber, Levine, & Ellis Warren & Sue Wenz Gary & Kathy Davis David Westenbarger Thanks to you, our donors, Linda & Bill Decker we’re closer to opening el Comedor Judy Ericksen the Margaret J Maclean Animal Welfare Center. We make every effort to accurately reflect all donations in this list, but if we have made We thank you all an error, please call Ellen at 727.7387 and accept our sincere apology. most sincerely!

6 PAM LEMELIN

CAROL BRADLEY Dog Park News & Views People and dogs can co-exist peacefully at the dog park. It was a challenge for many of our regular visitors to the Pacific Steel & Recycling Trailside Dog Park this spring Above, Cassie makes friends with another border collie. when our dog park committee and the City of Great Falls At left, Jillie enjoys the weave Park & Recreation Department decided the best course of poles in the A-Jillie-ty course. action after a mild and dry winter was to close the park for turf repairs on weekdays for several weeks. But the wait was definitely worth it! The turf was watered, PS&R Trailside Dog Park aerated, seeded, and fertilized, and it’s now looking healthy again. 800 River Drive North The persistent mud hole just inside the large dog park has been Hours Open: Daylight to Dusk repaired with a drainage system and gravel that should resolve Developed by the Animal Foundation in partnership the issue permanently. Thank you to the Parks Department for with the City of Great Falls the diligent effort required to keep this gem of a park in top shape. And double thanks to the regular dog park patrons for your patience when maintenance requires temporary closure of the parks. Dogs RULE! We have received calls and comments from several dog park TThishis p parkark i iss a a p placelace f foror f fun.un . IIff y yourour dogdog isis havinghaving aa badbad dayday andand not not users about their concerns – small children in the dog park, pplayinglaying w wellell withwith others,others,please please taketake himyou orr d herog homehome toto avoidavoid problems.problems. The same goes for you humans! bicycles and skateboards on the paved path inside the The same goes for you humans! off-leash area, small dogs in the large dog park, and more. This is a public park, and as such, we rely on people’s good sense and concern for safety to rule their actions. When that But there are RULES for the park The following dog park rules are set in accordance with the is not the case, our best advice is to politely point out the Official City Code of the City of Great Falls–Title 6, Chapter 8. safety issues and ask people who are ignoring the rules to Failure to comply may result in a legal citation and/or fine. review them. Dog park rules and “Pet-etiquette” are posted on the kiosk by the parking lot and near the water fountain. #1 All use of the dog park is at your own risk. If you feel you or your pet is at risk of injury, the best course #2 City parks are open from dawn to dusk. is to leave the park until the offending users are gone. #3 You are responsible for the actions of your dog at all times . Our last edition of Sheltering Skies included the Top 10 (Section 6.8.1005) Your dog will not be held responsible for your behavior. Signs You Know Dog Park PET-etiquette . At right is a #4 Please keep your dog in sight and under control. Your dog review of Dogs RULE! should never be left unattended inside the dog park. CAROL BRADLEY #5 Poop Happens ... Please use the bags and receptacles. Violators will be reminded of their responsibility. (Section 6.8.1100) #6 Current rabies vaccination and a tag indicating such are required. (Section 6.8.1030)

#7 Dogs residing in Great Falls must be registered and wear a registration tag or be micro-chipped. (Section 6.8.1040 and 6.8.1060) #8 Playing dogs can get rowdy and pose some risk. Having young children in the park is not recommended. #9 Remove the leash in the holding area but keep it with you in the fenced area in case you need to control your dog. Your dog must be leashed when outside fenced areas. (Section 6.8.1140) #10 Aggressive dogs (Section 6.8.1160),femaledogsinheat(Section 6.8.1150), puppies less than four months old and habitually rude people are all prohibited from using the park.

Please have a safe and tail-wagging good time! “Land, spreadin’ out so far and wide ...” Dog Days of Summer at the Ball Park Enjoy America’s Favorite Pastime with Man’s Best Friend! Bring your pooch to Centene Stadium on July 22 for the 1:00 game between Great Falls Voyagers and the Ogden Raptors. Every dollar raised in dog entry fees ($1 per pet) will be donated to the Animal Foundation of Great Falls. The first 250 dogs to the ballpark will receive a free travel pet water bottle. Thank you to Great Falls Voyagers Baseball and Best Friends Animal Hospital for holding this benefit for the Animal Foundation! We look forward to seeing you there – and if you’re looking for a bargain, every Sunday is Family Day. You can purchase 4 tickets, 4 hot dogs and 4 Pepsi-Colas for just $18 with the coupon in that morning’s Tribune. What could be better than the dog days of summer?

Special Thanks for Community Support

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C supporters since our last edition of the I M newsletter. Scott Photography and Happy Tails Lodge sponsored the “Vote for Your Favorite” campaign at the Home and Garden Show. Friends and owners were encouraged to stuff the ballot boxes with $1 for each vote. In the end, $4,854 was raised for the Animal Foundation, “Sonny” Hartelius was voted top dog, and all the famous canines can be seen on the Happy Tails bus as it transports pets across town. Thank you to Michelle DeLange , Keith & Katie Duncan , and Scott Fairbanks for hatching this great idea and making it happen! Other local businesses who have come up with unique ways of supporting the cause and raising funds to help the Animal Foundation include Anderson ZurMuehlen , Davidson Companies , In Cahoots for Tea , Wines by Wednesday , and Erwin Insurance . When you are shopping for fine tea and other gifts at In Cahoots, you may notice the dog house collection container next to the register. Kathy Jutras sends regular donations from her version of a “tip jar.” Mark Tronson at Wines by Wednesday periodically chooses a featured wine and donates a portion of the proceeds (the label usually features an animal). Employees at Anderson ZurMuehlen and Davidson Companies have donated to the cause from their Jeans Day contributions. Erwin Insurance has instituted a program to thank new prospec tive clients by allowing them to choose a local non-profit organization to receive a contribution, and we’ve recently been the beneficiary of their generosity. Just before the end of the school year, we were pleased to accept donations from the third and sixth grade classes at Lewis and Clark Elementary . These children collected money in a variety of ways to help those who can’t help themselves. What an inspiration! We extend a special thank you to the teachers – Katie Hurin , Sandy Harrington , and all others – who are building character and a better future by instilling the values of generosity and compassion in our youth.

Sandy Harrington’s sixth grade class enjoyed meeting Executive Director Ellen Gauthier’s Great Dane after the class presented their donation and had a fun Q&A session about pets. Angel enjoys meeting kids and gives out doggie kisses.

PAM LEMELIN 8 Thursday September 13 20 12

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StrutYourMuttGF.org If you haven’t been able to join us for Strut Your Mutt previously, we hope you can this year. And all of you experienced strutters–we’re looking forward to seeing you again on , 2012. Yes, that’s right, Strut September 13 Pam’s CatNippers being the Your Mutt is on a Thursday evening this year! most successful fundraisers, so We’re trying they will be leading the parade something new again and hoping to keep again this year! And, if you just growing the number of people participating in don’t feel like strutting, you can this dog walk/fundraiser down Central Avenue. register as a Lazy Dog and still Once again, we will meet at Whittier Park help the cause. where the Pet Lover’s Market & Food Fair and entertainment will be located. Last minute Come raise money to help complete registrations begin at 5pm and the parade the new animal welfare center and starts in front of the Civic Center at 6:30pm. enjoy an evening of fun and entertainment for the whole family, Early registration starts this month, with a and Fido , of course! kick-off event July 21 at the dog park from 10am to noon . For only $20 you and one Heather Rohlf participates in the Best Kisser contest. dog can strut your stuff in the parade – you get a fun t-shirt and your best friend can sport a bright bandana. Once you’ve registered, raise funds by asking friends and family to sponsor you and your dog for the walk. There are great prizes for fundraisers! Cat lovers are encouraged to register as Cat Nappers and walk in the parade (but kitty has to stay home for safety). We have a two-year history with

Our Third Annual STRUT YOUR MUTT! 5:00 - 8:00pm Pet Lover’s Market & Food Fair 5:00 - 6:15pm Registration 5:30 - 6:30pm Demonstrations & Prizes 6:30pm Strut Your Mutt DOG WALK 8:00 pm Thank You & See You Next Year! Jack Hanna Appearance Will Benefit Foundation

World-renowned animal expert Jack Hanna will make an appearance at the Mansfield Theater on August 14 for the Great Falls Advertising Federation’s second Ad Club Celebrity Celebration. Ad Club has named the Animal Foundation of Great Falls a beneficiary of a portion of the proceeds from that event. Jack will be available in the lobby to sign autographs starting at 6pm and the show starts at 7pm. Tickets are $25 each. Children’s discount coupons are available at a variety of locations for $10 off the regular ticket price. Purchase at the Mansfield Box Office or online at ticketing.greatfallsmt.net. For more information call 455-8514.

9 Remembering We are grateful for these memorial and honor gifts received January 1 - June 15, 2012.

In Memory of PEOPLE In Memory of PETS Eugene Archambault Roy “Junior” Volk and Bear Baxter Annie Alcorn/Stockman Bank W.L. & Jackie Bourret Cindy Gahagan Frank & Lois Stimac John & Sheila Buchanan Bob & Cindy James Terry & Donna Cady/Advanced Litho K & K Trucking Linda Cambre Jan & Lisette Carter Roger, Lani, & Weezy Witt Frances Feller Nicholas & Patricia Cetto Robert & Gayle Gregovich Briar Don & Helen Cherry Ben & Caroline Carter Krys Cole Nina Coefield Cheri Warila Dan Devine Buddy Cal & Charlene Eklund Debra Schwandt Zoe Colich H.H. & Carol Franson Bill & Andrea Johnstone Erich & Matilda Grosse Charlie Ben & Caroline Carter Mildred Dalich Marianne Haigh Bob & Cindy James David & Darleen Hilde Chief Dan Hollow Roxanne & Jim Swartz Timothy Dauenhauer Larry & Jan Jackson Remax of Great Falls Realtors Bob & Cindy James Cooper and Kilala Debra Schwandt Marlene Doyle Don & Cherie Johnson David Evanko Nobby & Betty Johnson Gordy Donna Fornfeist Patricia Jones Debra Schwandt Mike Schultz Jim & Karen Kernaghan Doris Ann Koth Griz Charles Emard Dirk & Connie Larsen Bob & Cindy James David & Leslie Baldridge Jack & Donna Lewis Klondike A Pet’s Last Gift Amie Grande Bruce Lund Ed & Carolyn Dolezal Irene Nardinger Ed & Peggy Matteucci Bob & Cindy James George & Colleen McCabe Before humans die, they write their Last Will & Testament, Emmett Harrison Mitchell Development & Investments Max give their homes and all they have to those they leave behind. Roy & Donna Aafedt Barb Moe & Howard Axtell Judy Gretch Bob & Cindy James If, with my paws, I could do the same, this is what I’d ask… Bob Hellinger Catherine O’Dell Bill & Andrea Johnstone Gary & Barb Mercer Stella Palm To a poor and lonely stray, I’d give: Douglas Palmer Morgan Phillip Kleffner Bob & Marilyn Pimperton Roger & Lani Witt The Goldstone Greg & Amber Pinski My happy home. Mr. Nibbles Sue Kummer Beverly Rehor Bob & Cindy James The Rambling Sams Tom & Jan Robitaille My bowl and cozy bed, soft pillows, and all my toys. Shirley Ryan Roxy Bob Lehman Bernard Schermele Nancy Wilson The lap, which I loved so much. Marlene Fowler John & Sue Skees Don & Veronica Griffith Bob & Pat Sletten Shawnee Helga Grunenwald Gene & Jane Thayer Bob & Cindy James The hand that stroked my fur and the sweet voice Brian & Jennifer Johnson Shirlee Thiebes Snoopy which spoke my name. Carolyn Lehman Joanne Thomas Roy & Donna Aafedt Carol Severin James & Margaret Thompson I’d will to the sad, scared shelter animal, the place I had in Stanley & Janet Tiffany Brogan Millbrand my human’s loving heart, of which there seemed no bounds. Prairie Mountain Bank Gary & Beverly Ulmer HONOR GIFTS Ardelle Watkins So when I die, please do not say, “I will never have a pet Evelyn Poncelet Bradley & Barbara Watson Condon Group The Goldstone Jerrold & Nadyne Weissman John & Linda St. Germain again, for the loss and pain is more than I can stand.” Warren & Sue Wenz Joyce Robson Bob James George Williamson Instead, go find an unloved pet, one whose life has held Deloris Putnam Victor & Sarah Cantu Doug & Jean Robson Dan Woods no joy or hope and give MY place to HIM. Jo Ann Woods Melanie Lattin George Skaar Jim & Fran Wylder Ellen Gauthier This is the only thing I can give… The love I left behind. Karen Schoonover John Huber Patsy Whitehorn ~ Author Unknown Chris Skovron George Bandel Anne Martinez Big Sky Animal Medical Center Doug & Mary Keeler, John Huber George Geise David & Shirley Shane Leo P. McMeel Insurance Phyllis Williamson Don Sorte Keith & Debbie Bjorsness Pam Guschausky for the love of animals JOSHUA KODIS PHOTO COURTESY OF THE GREAT FALLS TRIBUNE greatfallstribune.com We sincerely appreciate your consideration of the Animal Foundation of Great Falls when you make planned, memorial and honor gifts. The Animal Foundation of Great Falls is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We are honored to be included in your estate planning and gratefully accept gifts in memory or honor of beloved family members, friends, pets, or significant life events. All cumulative donations of $1,000 or more will be recognized in a permanent, prominent place of honor in the new animal welfare center. In-kind gifts are categorized at the donation level based on the value of your gift. Last fall, Animal Foundation member and volunteer Anne Martinez took her sweet retriever Max to the Great Falls Reading Council’s “Read to an Orphan” day. Carmen Kelley read to Max, who has since gone to Doggie Heaven. 10 Spay of the Falls Alters 96 Dogs, 190 cats in May

More than 5,000 animals spayed or neutered! Our next clinic is scheduled for August 25 and 26 at the Can you imagine how many unwanted births Montana Expo Park Mercantile Building. Please call the have been prevented as a result of the Spay Spay of the Falls hotline – 403-3219 – if you have a of the Falls clinics? Ma y19 and 20 was cat or dog you would like to schedule for the clinic. another successful outcome with 190 cats Spay-ghetti Dinner Helps Fund Clinics and 96 dogs being “fixed” during those two Save the Date ... October 20, 2012 days. The City of Great Falls provided You can help us raise funds to continue the good $5,000 to help sponsor the spring event work of the Spay of the Falls. Enjoy an evening of 1 and 20 cats and 10 dogs from the City good food and family fun at the Spayghetti Dinner. Animal Shelter were spayed or neutered in this clinic to help make them more adoptable. We extend sincere thanks to all the volunteers who donated their time to make this free service available to low-income residents of our area. And a special thank you to Gloria LaMott , who resigned her position as clinic chair in early May. We appreciate her years of service to this community and the animals in need.

6 3 2

1 It’s kitten season! 2 Lynne Durkin feeds a tiny kitten whose mama was being spayed. 3 Cheryl Antonich and Dottie Banker shave cats in pre-op. 4 JaNice Shannon 5 comforts Lady Lu Lu Sarah prior to surgery 5 A lighter moment in cat recovery with Sue Skees, Ivy Aviles, and Jan Vinci. 4 6 Traps are set for community cat Trap Neuter Release (TN R). This cat has been trapped previously. Note the notched left ear which indicates this cat has already been neutered.

Luncheon chair and board member Whitney Olson, with her dog Ellie, speaks about the ongoing need to find homes for retired greyhounds. Whitney and husband Doug Little have fostered several dogs and cats. Annual Giving Luncheon a SUCCESS!

The room was filled for a one-hour light lunch at MSU-COT last November. A short video program, that succinctly tells the Animal Foundation story, and moving testimony from a few animal-loving friends inspired our guests to give $72,890 in gifts and pledges! A huge THANK YOU to all who gave so generously and made our first “giving luncheon” a success. Please save the date for the 2012 event. Tuesday, November 27 at noon.

11 P.O. Box 3426 Non-Profit Great Falls, MT 59403 U.S. Postage PAID www. theanimalfoundation .org Great Falls, MT Permit #237 FOR MORE INFORMATION Ellen Gauthier, Executive Director 406. 727.PETS or 727. 7387 elle n@ theanimalfoundation.org

Fostering a caring community for animals

Sheltering Skies Editor: Ellen Gauthier Designer: Pam Lemelin

Why we do what we do ... These homeless animals were photographed by Cindy Cieluch at the Great Falls Animal Shelter. CINDY CIELUCH PHOTOGRAPHY

Greetings PAM LEMELIN & Gratitude

Dear Animal Foundation Friends, Great things are happening at the Animal Foundation of Great Falls! Since our last newsletter, Phase Two construction of the Margaret J. Maclean Animal Welfare Center has been completed and we have a good start on raising the $100,000 needed to meet the challenge that will result in an additional $100,000 in matching funds. This means that we are able to continue construction with Phase 3A. CINDY CIELUCH PHOTOGRAPHY We are honored to have had two new trustees – Ray Wahlert and Gene Thayer – recently join our board. Both of these gentlemen bring a wealth of business experience and history of community leadership that will enhance our ability to move Mark your calendar! into the future effectively. Date Event Info This year’s Fur Ball was our best ever, our membership continues to grow, Jul 21 Strut Your Mutt Kickoff Page 9 more volunteers are offering their time and talents to help us, and 286 animals were spayed or neutered in our May Spay of the Falls clinic. Jul 22 Dog Days of Summer Page 8 Read the details of these good news stories and more inside. Aug 14 Jack Hanna Appearance Page 9

Aug 25-26 Spay / Neuter Clinic Page 11 Spay of the Falls longtime volunteer Sep 13 Strut Your Mutt Page 9 Judy Cummings greets our clients as they Oct 20 Spayghetti Diinner Page 11 Ellen Gauthier, bring their pets to the spay / neuter clinic. Without dedicated animal lovers like Judy, Nov 27 Annual Giving Luncheon Page 11 Executive Director these programs would not be possible.