2013 Fur Ball “All You Need Is Love” in Photos

Philadelphia’s Morris Animal Refuge held its 16th annual evening of fun, fundraising, and love for animals—the Fur Ball at the University of the Arts Hamilton Hall last week.
The theme of the 2013 Fur Ball was “All You Need Is Love,” and guests “celebrated the
era when flower power reigned and tie-dye was the trend.” This year’s event theme is especially
important, as it rings true in pet ownership—all you need is love to change an animal’s life.
Jim DePaul who
has been with the Morris Animal Refuge since 1991. Started as a
volunteer, and then worked his way up from Kennel Attendant to the
position of General Manager, welcomes the guests and recognizes this years honorees.
Including presenting the prestigious Elizabeth Morris Award to honored guest Anne Irwin, the Executive Director of the Bucks County SPCA. The Elizabeth Morris Award is presented annually to a person or organization that has made a significant impact upon animal welfare over the last calendar year. Irwin recently oversaw the development of a new facility for the Bucks County SPCA which doubled their capabilities to rescue animals. Irwin said that saving animals has come a long since she took the position. These days there are felony animal laws, provisions from judges that remove animals from abusive homes, respect from the community, it’s easier to save the lives of animals now.
I love, love, love surprise awards. This young lady thought she was going to give an award to Jim DePaul but he turned the tables on her and said he was there to honor her. Catherine Scafidi, accompanied by her husband Ernest with Annemarie O’Donnell, Member and Chair, Volunteer Committee and Philadelphia’s Fox 29 weather anchor Sue Serio who was the evening’s emcee. Catherine Scafidi has volunteered at the Morris Animal Refuge for 28 years. Well deserved!!
The Morris Animal Refuge Board of Directors recently announced an ambitious five year plan. The
purpose of this strategic plan is to dramatically increase adoptions, enhance the Refuge’s Center
City facilities, expand programs and refocus the direction of the Refuge’s mission and goals.
Laura DiFrancesco, Billy Vargus, Philadelphia’s Fox 29 weather anchor Sue Serio served as the evening’s emcee and Miss Pennsylvania USA Jessica Billings.
Did you know you can adopt a pet virtually. No animal brought to our door is ever turned away. Unfortunately not all
animals find new homes. It takes hard work, sometimes a little luck,
and always the generosity of our friends to feed, care for and find
homes for our abused, neglected and abandoned friends. Please help us in our mission and save a life today!
To learn more about the Morris Animal Refuge, visit their website at www.MorrisAnimalRefuge.org.