Over $46,000 Raised at Riverside (CA) Humane Society Pet Adoption Center's 12th Annual Comedy Nig

Online, October 8, 2009 (Newswire.com) - In spite of the ongoing weak economy in the Inland Empire, the Riverside Humane Society Pet Adoption Center raised $46,610 at its recent 12th Annual Comedy Night, a better than 15 percent increase over the amount raised in 2008. The event, held Sept. 25 at the Riverside Convention Center, attracted more than 300 guests who enjoyed an evening of comedy, jugging, a silent auction, awards presentations and refreshments.

This year's silent auction, which featured 50 items for all interests and budgets, including a gourmet dinner and wine tasting for eight donated by ForgottenGrapes.com and The Chef's Wife, realized 75 percent more money than the previous year's auction.

Additionally, the raffle prize, a Las Vegas Phenomenal Phantom Show Package which included a stay at The Venetian and tickets to "Phantom of the Opera" was a hot item. The lucky winner, Jeanine Stonick of Temecula, will have the use of a 2010 Jaguar to drive to Las Vegas, courtesy of Alvarez Jaguar, Lincoln Mercury of Riverside.

"It's gratifying to know that in spite of tough economic times, people still find it in their hearts to help us provide shelter and care for homeless animals while they wait for their forever homes," said Gail Ousley, director of development for the Riverside Humane Society. "We are so very grateful to those who attended Comedy Night, bought raffle tickets, and donated products and services to make the evening a wonderful success."

Paul and Patti Norris of Riverside were awarded this year's Albert Schweitzer Humanitarian of the Year Award in recognition of their long-time devotion to the animals at the Riverside Humane Society Pet Adoption Center. For many years, the Norrises not only have donated money, but also dog beds and other material goods to the Center. They have a particular fondness for animals in desperate need, providing financial support for dogs like Noah, the weimaraner found with gunshot wounds to the face, and Elaine, the three-legged akita.

Two individuals also were recognized for their professional contributions to the Society: Greg Keehfuss, owner of Technical Computer Services of Riverside, and Jean Clement, owner of Limelight, a public relations agency in Menifee. Keehfuss received the Our Hero Award for his years of providing pro bono computer services, including set up of the computer system in the new Pet Adoption Center and ongoing maintenance. Clement was given the Our Heroine Award for her pro bono public relations and marketing communications services, promotional creativity, and development of relationships for the Society with the media.

The Riverside Humane Society Pet Adoption Center is a non-profit public benefit charitable organization serving communities in Riverside County and beyond. As the largest no-kill pet rescue organization in Riverside County, the Society accepts owner turn-ins of cats and dogs and transfers from area animal-control agencies. Prior to adoption, each animal is either spayed or neutered, vaccinated, evaluated for behavior issues, and microchipped, as well as monitored for physical, emotional and mental health, and receives ongoing socialization. For more information, go to www.petsadoption.com or call 951-688-4340.