Awards were handed out on Saturday, 27 August to participants in the Gallery’s 4th. Annual Photo Contest – Raining Cats & Dogs to benefit Suncoast Humane Society. A check for $1,000 (up from $350 in years’ past) was presented to Claire Berten, Director of Events and Volunteer Services of Suncoast Humane Society at the awards celebration in the Gallery.
Three winners based on the number of votes received were named from the field of twenty-five pets. Tootsie, a nine year old West Highland White Terrier (Westie) of Gerry & Vinnie Neeley of Venice claimed first prize. Wister, a one year old Siberian Husky who was rescued in April by a team from St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and lives in Memphis, Tennessee with Lynne and Rod Bowers, won 2nd. place. Kathy Lehner of Venice accepted 3rd. place for her Beagle, Casper.
When asked about the 100% increase in funds raised this year, Leah Sherman said, “It has always been my experience that when you ask people to contribute a little (10 cents per vote), they exceed your expectations. The addition of out of state contestants due in part to Collectors’ online presence influenced the total amount of monies raised to some degree”. Sherman extended special thanks not only to the contestants from Venice and five other states but to all those who voted. (CLICK ON ANY PICTURE TO ENLARGE)






The dogs and cats Win again. Thanks Leah!