The Blaine County Journal News-Opinion - We've Got The County Covered

On June 26, a crew from PAWS Animal Shelter in Chinook was set up at the Blaine County Fairgrounds and selling lunch to anyone hungry and wishing to support the shelter. The BBQ Fundraiser was the kick-off event in a series of revenue raising efforts that will fund a fence project. Several other money generating occasions will follow.

According to the President of PAWS, Alissa Hewitt, 100% of the proceeds from the barbecue will go back to the local animal shelter. Held in conjunction with the Hi-Line Hustle barrel racing event, the barbecue featured hot dogs, hamburgers, and cheeseburgers. The sandwiches could be purchased either singly or in a meal deal. Meals included a cold drink (water or soda), chips, and a cookie. The beef for the burgers was donated by Bryan Kellam, Jen and Josh Granell, and Todd Solomon.

Hewitt explained that the "big want/big need" right now at the shelter is a space remodel. During the shelter's recent record-breaking intakes, Hewitt relied heavily on the dog run, referring to it as "such an asset; it's actually the best part of the shelter since the dogs need space to exercise."

With increased populations, however, Hewitt realized that the run could be redesigned so as to better leverage the available space. "We want to divide that run into sections so that if we have some dogs that don't socialize well or we have someone wishing to visit the dogs, this can be done more safely-not only for the dogs but for visitors and my staff, as well," she said.

Although most of the shelter's donations get ear-marked for general facility operations, with the fence plan in mind, PAWS is holding targeted fundraising.

After all, the expected cost of the construction is high. "We have one quote in currently and are hoping to speak with more companies, but right now it's looking like this project will cost 8-10k," Hewitt predicted.

Another fundraiser that will support the fence construction is a raffle of twelve baskets assembled by PAWS volunteers and local supporters. Each basket in the dozen available is designed around a theme: Family Movie Night, Wine Time, North 40 Loves Dogs, Keep Calm and Drink Tea, Doggone Fun, Dog Planters, It's 5:00 Somewhere, Woof #1, Woof #2, Terra Cotta Pup, Coffee, and Auto Detailing. Pictures, as well as a description of the contents of each basket, are available on the pet shelter's Facebook page. Basket winners will be decided in a random drawing that will take place at Vizsla Brewing's taproom in Havre on July 31 at 6:00 p.m.

The baskets will also be available for viewing from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. on July 10 at the Chinook Farmer and Flea Market. Anyone interested in purchasing tickets may do so at that event or on the night of the drawing at Vizsla Brewing Company. Individuals captivated by this cause can also obtain tickets by contacting any PAWS board member or volunteer. They may even call the shelter's line (357-7172) or Hewitt's phone (357-3316). Hewitt explained that although no online sales will be conducted, the organization can accept cash and local checks.

During their presence at the Chinook Farmer and Flea Market, PAWS will additionally sell the remainder of the snacks and beverages left over from the barbecue, along with spots on a 50/50 board. Hewitt further reported that Bounce On In, a party/entertainment service in Havre's Holiday Village Mall, has generously donated their Jolly Roger, a pirate-themed blowup castle, as a gesture to support the dogs. Children of all ages are invited to explore the castle on Saturday, July 10, for a fee that will go towards the fence design.

"All proceeds will benefit shelter operations and projects at PAWS of Chinook," Hewitt stated. "We thank you for your constant generosity and support!"

Shelter staff hope to have the fence project completed this year, but that timeline and progress will all depend on funding.