‘Dancing for Paws’ steps out for Humane Society

By Scott Nicholson

As a start to the celebration of its 40th anniversary year, the Watauga Humane Society is hosting a dance featuring local DJ Keith Richardson, spinning a mix of hits from across the musical landscape.

Humane Society executive director Janet Pepin warms up for the “Dancing For Paws” event on May 1. Photo submitted

“Dancing For Paws” is a new event, said Humane Society executive director Janet Pepin, and comes at a time when people are looking for some fun after a long winter and also when the local animal rescue shelter is most in need.

“We’ve been hearing from people who wanted to go to a dance that wasn’t too formal,” Pepin said. “We also needed an event in the spring because fund raising typically goes down this time of year. Our donations are down about 20 percent, so we needed to do something.”

Around 7:30 p.m., the dance starts with top 40 hits from the 1940s and 1950s, creating a timeline of hits of yesterday and today. “As we coast through the middle of the evening, we’ll go through the 60s, 70s, and 80s, all the way to the current year,” Pepin said.

“It’s a great excuse to start celebrating our 40th anniversary,” Pepin said. The money will be used for operational costs of the Humane Society. With donations down and costs up about 10 percent, Pepin said the gap was widening even as the Humane Society raises money for a new shelter and facility.

The Humane Society is still seeking about $750,000 for its capital campaign, and volunteers are developing a pool of pro bono professionals who will donate services to help reduce the cost. The groundbreaking on June 13 will also launch the public portion of the fund-raising campaign.

In addition to dancing, there will be a best-caterer contest, best-dance contests, and karaoke for those who want to try out their vocal talents. Beer and wine will be available for purchase as well as appetizers and desserts. The 40th person to arrive will receive a gift certificate with a $70 value from Lavender Field Spa. It’s a come-as-you-are party, Pepin said, so people will feel comfortable in a less formal setting.

The dance will be held at the High Country Builders Association Ballroom located off of the Route 105 Bypass (next door to the Coca-Cola plant) from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at the door for $15, or $10 for students with proof of age over 21 and student ID. Table reservations may also be made in advance at $150 per table, which seats 10 people, and special welcome gifts will be provided to reserved table groups. Tables may be reserved by calling (828) 268-1486 or e-mailing pepinj@bellsouth.net by April 27.