Fur flies at SPCA fundraiser

NORWICH – They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks. However, the Chenango County SPCA’s annual Valentine Fur Ball is quickly becoming a local tradition in only its third year – 100 years after the shelter first opened its doors to displaced animals from across the area.

“It’s really a wonderful event,” said Norwich resident Marilyn Kochesperger, who attended the ball Saturday night at the Canasawacta Country Club. “The timing is great – it’s at the perfect time of year. The music is great, and it’s an excellent mix of people of all ages.”

The ever-popular event turned the country club into its own version of a winter shelter, reaching its capacity despite the frigid weather outside. The 256 on-hand – 100 more than the year before – packed the dance floor and bar room (a fair share wearing doggy and kitty ears) and enjoyed the lively music of Binghamton-based Rooster and the Roadhouse Horns.

“It’s really a celebration of helping those who can’t help themselves,” said SPCA board member and Fur Ball co-founder Rita Ashton. “And it’s nice to have something to do in the dregs of winter.”