Have A Heart

Baywater Animal Rescue Scores Big for Pets with Have A Heart Gala Celebrates Love of Extended Family on Valentine’s Day Weekend

Cambridge, MD – Baywater Animal Rescue will host its Have a Heart Gala at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay on Saturday February 15, 6:30-8:30 pm to toast a special kind of love this Valentine’s Day weekend. Building on the success of last year’s inaugural gala, the event is a significant fundraiser for the animal adoption shelter and culminates with the crowning of King and Queen of Hearts, canine and feline royalty.

“This year’s Have a Heart gala features music by DJ Erik Higgins, a live and silent auction, and delicious small plates,” said Suzette Stitely, Executive Director, adding, “but the crowning moment will be the coronation of two royal pets as the 2014 King and Queen of Hearts.” Stitely explained that guests will be able to elect the king and queen by donating a dollar per vote; the pet who raises the most money will be crowned.

Have a Heart is the major fundraising event for Baywater; it funds 10% of the organization’s operating costs. The 2013 gala raised $28,000 according to chairwoman Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio who said, “We hope more people will join us this year to demonstrate the special love we share with our pets on Valentine’s Day – and every day.”

Baywater Board President Jerilyn Gibbs credits the mid-shore community and Dorchester residents and business owners for making the center the region’s premiere No Kill shelter. “Thanks to the generosity and support of donors, adopters and volunteers, more than 300 homeless animals found happy endings in 2013.”

Have a Heart is sponsored by Perdue and the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay and all proceeds benefit the shelter’s operations. Tickets are $75 per person, including a cash bar and can be purchased at www.baywaterhaveaheart.org or by contacting Baywater at 410-228-3090.