Christmas For The Animals Held

Sunday – December 11: “Working Together” the 4th Annual Christmas for the Animals was held yesterday in Wellsville. It took place at the Gazebo in the 4th Street Square. Mayor-elect Susan Haugh welcomed all who attended and issued a heart felt thank-you to those that put on the event and to all who made it possible. The first Christmas event for the animals in the village was started by the ladies of the Alley Cat Aide Brigade four years ago. It was the brain child of Brigade member Connie Carmichael based on a similar event she had heard about being held in Boston.

Joining forces with the Alley Cat Aide Brigade this year was the Columbiana County Humane Society, Wellsville's Animal Control and Paws-R-Riding On It. The four groups working together for the first time for the animal Christmas must have pleased Mother Nature. It was the first time in four years there were clear skies and bright sunshine for the event. The bright sunshine & shadows were brutal for picture taking but it was a beautiful day for an outdoor event. There were gifts, treats and free food given out for the animals while supplies lasted. It was all made possible through generous donations.

Another first this year was rural Wellsville residents Jeff & Sue Bennett taking pictures of the animals with Santa, with professional expertise. When asked where their shop was Sue Bennett declared “we're just winging it, we're not in the business!” Jeff Bennett noted there were 35 pets photographed. Those pictures will be available for pick-up this Thursday & Friday at Air Waves, 464 Main St.

Penelope, the pot bellied pig, had to be the top attention getter. There were lots of cute kittens and lovable dogs but Penelope elicited a lot of “OH Look!” comments. Her owner says she is quite friendly, house broken and gets along well with the two family dogs. The pig was very content nibbling on dry dog food and was very cooperative posing for pictures. “Snakey”, the colorful corn snake, had to be eligible for the most unusual prize, if prizes were given for most unusual pets.


ole nib