The Chenango SPCA Fur Ball will begin at 7 p.m. on Saturday, February 10 at the Canasawacta Country Club. In addition to having live music, drinks, and hors d'oeuvres, the event will also include a live auction with gift baskets and items donated by local businesses and organizations. (Photo by Sarah Genter)

CHENANGO COUNTY – The Chenango SPCA Fur Ball fundraiser will be making its return at the Canasawacta Country Club from 7 to 11 p.m. on Saturday, February 10.

Last year saw the official return of the Fur Ball after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Last year’s event was also the inaugural fundraiser of the SPCA’s new Executive Director Patrick McLaughlin.

“It’s certainly our biggest fundraising event of the year. I’ve only been to one of them. Last year it was a lot of fun,” he said. “Last year we had just around 100 people; we’re hoping for even more this year.”

The Valentine’s Day themed, semi-formal event will begin with hors d’oeuvres and cocktails at 7 p.m., with music by opener Grady Thompson from 7 to 8 p.m. From 8 to 11 p.m., fan favorite band Crushing Midnight will take the stage.

There will also be a champagne toast for attendees over the age of 21, as well as a silent auction with items and gift baskets donated by local businesses and organizations.

McLaughlin said SPCA board members are still working on soliciting donations, but attendees can expect similar auction items to last year, such as gift certificates to local restaurants, baskets of animal-themed goodies, gift baskets from downtown Norwich stores, and more.

Attendance is $50 per person or $350 for a table of eight. To purchase tickets, visit ChenangoSPCA.org.

All proceeds will benefit the operation of the Chenango SPCA. In past years, it’s been estimated that it costs approximately $370,000 annually to run the shelter. However, with the rise in cost of supplies and utilities, it costs more than ever to keep the facility running.

McLaughlin said in 2023 the Chenango SPCA was able to raise $420,000, which he said was very close to the total amount needed to keep the shelter running last year.

He encourages area residents to dress up and attend a fun evening of music, food, drinks, and support of the animals of Chenango County.

“In addition to just being a really fun evening, it’s really the only event that is intended to support the health and happiness of the animals at the Chenango SPCA, at least this time of year. All our other events do it, but this one is special,” he said. “It’s a Valentine’s Day themed thing, so it’s a great opportunity for couples to come and have fun, and to have the confidence that the fun evening they’re having is really supporting a fantastic cause.”

Later on this year, the Chenango SPCA also plans to host the Paws and Pints and Woofstock fundraisers, as well as their summertime garage sales.

For more information on the Chenango SPCA, visit ChenangoSPCA.org or the Chenango SPCA Facebook page.