FT. LAUDERDALE, FL – The PAWS auxiliary of the Humane Society of Broward County, delivered an absolute bee’s knee’s fundraiser on May 16 at the Ritz-Carlton Fort Lauderdale with their Passport to PAWS “Boardwalk Empire.” The event was presented by The Gaddis Family Foundation and Yellow Cab Company. Hardworking Chairs Christine Forman, Margaret Meldeau and Lori Sisko, along with their fabulous committee, organized the 1920’s-themed extravaganza that netted over $118,000 for the shelter and its services.
Event Chairmen – Lori Sisko, Christine Forman and Margaret Meldeau
Guests arrived at the Ritz-Carlton dressed in their finest flapper and mob boss attire. They were greeted with a display of fabulous vintage cars, as well as the delightful Foxy, a pit bull mix available for adoption. After posing for a photo that they would later take home as a favor, party-goers sipped cocktails and sampled hors d’oeuvres while they bid on some swanky silent auction items. There was also an opportunity to purchase tickets for a prize drawing to win a Las Vegas getaway – of which Martin & Michelle Matak were the ecstatic winners.
Guests later entered the gorgeously-decorated ballroom to the tune of “Puttin’ on the Ritz” and continued to enjoy music by the band Studio One. After a delicious dinner auctioneer Gordon Latz stepped up to the stage to work his fast-talking magic, offering up fabulous trips, stunning jewelry and private dinners. There was also a “speakeasy” area for lounging and socializing throughout the evening when taking a break from dancing.
Generous sponsors and underwriters for Passport to PAWS Boardwalk Empire included: The Gaddis Family Foundation and Yellow Cab Company – Susan & Jesse Gaddis, Christine & M. Austin Forman, Berger Singerman / Sharon & Mitchell Berger, Linda & Neil Capone, Susan & Norman Fixel, Valerie & David Ross, Jacqueline & Brian David Udell, MD, Christy & Andy Gumberg, Margaret & Mike Meldeau, Liz & Gary Brown, Tari & Ed Collins, Jonelle Lees & Jim Degnan, Betty & Steve Lipkin, Lucy & Gerry Weber, Carol Harrison, Mary & Richard Kazares, The Harry T. Mangurian, Jr. Foundation, ACURE / Jeannie & Steve Hudson, Friends of PAWS - Ali & Melody Saleh, John & Cherie Marshall, George Stroker & Gabrielle Wellner, Dale & Marie Favre, Tony & Holly Munoz, Goldcoast Data Vault – Christine & M. Austin Forman and Una & Bill Murphy, Rosemarie & Gary Wendt, Bonnie Barnett & Dr. Robert Kagan, Dawn & Peter Dellapina, Dennis & Darlene Jordan, Edison Insurance Company – Clint Strauch, Fulmer LeRoy & Albee, Ingrid & Brian Poulin, The McDonald Family Foundation – Tom & Vickie McDonald, American Dog Rescue – Arthur Benjamin, Lise & Leland Hirsch, Premier Beverage Company, Gold Coast Magazine, Fort Lauderdale Magazine, Fort Lauderdale Design, Fran & David Horvitz, Jeannine L. McIntosh, Marti & Wayne Huizenga, Betsy & Fred Marolf, Jennifer & Robert Roselli, and Tammy & Lloyd Berger / Berger Commercial Realty.
The Humane Society of Broward County is a private, non-profit organization supported by donations from people and companies who want to help us help the animals. The shelter receives no government funding and is not affiliated with any local or national organization with a similar name. For information about adopting, upcoming events or to make a donation, please visit www.humanebroward.com
