Humane Society of Missouri’ Glow in the Park

The Humane Society of Missouri provided a “howling good time” at the 42nd annual Balloon Glow Charity Dinner, held on the central fields of Forest Park, Friday, September 19, 2014. This glittering event previews the Great Forest Park Balloon Race, which occurred the following day. Once again, the Energizer Bunny prepared to take its Saturday flight, surrounded by the competing balloons that ultimately attempt to catch it.

A glorious late summer night set the stage for the sharp contrast of darkness and glowing balloons, culminating in an even more stunning fireworks display. The 800 paid guests received private entry and parking within Forest Park, but the VIP group’s exclusive reception included champagne, hors d’oeuvres, and guaranteed front row seating to gain the best views. A classic “park style” Mexican-themed buffet with chicken and rice, plus soft and hard shell tacos, presented by Butler’s Pantry, elicited delightful growls from all. The fireworks display around the inflated balloons always adds a magnificent touch.

The Humane Society also featured a Wine Pull and Silent Auction. For $25, $50, or $75 donations, guests had the chance to “choose” a covered bottle of wine valued between $25 and $200. The auction included 22 items ranging from becoming a Sonoma Valley Winemaker to a New Orleans Jazz and Dining getaway, a ride in an open cockpit 1042 Boeing Stearman Airplane, and a Portrait of Your Pet, Oil on Canvas. Net proceeds from the Balloon Glow benefited the Humane Society of Missouri’s Animal Cruelty Fund, dedicated to investigating, healing and preventing animal abuse.

The Animal Cruelty Task Force, supported by the fund, is made up of Professional Humane Officers and Statewide Investigators who conduct investigations of alleged cases of abuse and neglect of animals. The St. Louis Division Humane Officers remain on call 24-hours-a-day, 365-days-a-year to rescue animals in distress, pick up unwanted animals, and transport sick and/or injured stray animals. Special training and state-of-the-art equipment allow the Humane Officers to handle even the most difficult rescues.

For more information about the Humane Society of Missouri’s “Glow in the Park” or the Animal Cruelty Fund, please contact Jeane Jae at (314) 647-8800 or visit HSMO’s website, http://www.hsmo.org.

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