Ark Animal Sanctuary – Miracle on Mechanic Street is success

By Mary Peabody
    The Ark Animal Sanctuary’s fund-raising event Saturday (Dec. 5) was a wonderful success. Lorraine Monfils, who was the organizer, wanted to thank all the people who so willingly gave their time and energy to help make it the event what it was. She mentioned with tremendous gratitude several names to me, but was fearful that someone would be omitted. Please forgive us if you happen to be that one.
    She talked of Pete and Darlene Kenney. They came to help set up with their generator in tow, stayed all day to help where they could, and remained to help take things down at the end. Mike Carpenter was “awesome,” giving sleigh rides around town with his team. The Christian Academy came with beautiful voices to sing Christmas carols and brighten everybody’s spirits. The Scott tree farm was very generous in their donation of trees to sell. Bonny Dickinson’s dad (Mr. Folsom) made and donated twelve Christmas wreaths to sell. Many thanks to all those who cooked various foods to sell. We want to give an especially huge thanks to the people of Houlton who showed up to support the Ark Animal Sanctuary’s dream. Over $3,000 was raised thanks to all of you.
    Another wonderful part of the event was that six kitties were adopted and now have new homes. Lorraine said the week before was also beneficial for several of her “tenants”, as six of her cats did find owners. We continue to remain very concerned that some pet owners are not being responsible for having their pets spayed or neutered. Please take care of your pet!
    Winter can be a lethal time for these furry little animals that depend so much on us for food, warmth, and love. I leave you with a story that Lorraine told me tonight about a lady here in town that spotted a feral cat in her yard a year ago, but was unable to capture it. It was very cold, so she put a covered cardboard box with an opening on her porch. She placed a workable heating pad inside. It didn’t take very long for “the big guy” to find it. With some food and love, she has now taken in a boarder. She knew that without this attention, it would have been a cruel end for another animal.
    Again, thank you to all who helped with the Dec. 5 event.