Local businesses embrace Heart of Niagara's 'Cruisin' on the Canal' fundraiser

The Western New York community continues to show love for homeless and abandoned animals. Heart of Niagara Animal Rescue Inc. reports an outpouring of support for the organization's "Cruisin' On The Canal" event Saturday, June 14, at Lockport Locks and Canal Cruises.

Niagara County Produce has joined the list of sponsors, which includes Blackwinds Pet Supplies, Lockport Outdoor Store, All-Ways Warm Stove and Chimney, the Village Bake Shoppe and QLS Solutions Group Inc. Other area businesses providing prizes, monetary support or donations are A-1 Landcare Inc., Always A Party, Abby's Loft, Applied Fitness Inc., Basil Toyota of Lockport, Cornerstone Federal Credit Union of Lockport, Creekside Sales and Service, Donner Creek Veterinary Hospital, Enchanted Florist, Eclectic Eyes Photography, Goulds Florist, Lucky Dog Collar Co., Mantelli Trailer Sales, Rustic Rare Crafts Handmade Soaps, The Wine and Liquor Outlet, Tops Friendly Markets of Lockport, and West Herr Honda of Lockport.

Event tickets include a full evening of entertainment beginning with a one-hour Lockport Locks canal cruise at 6:30 p.m., followed by a light dinner buffet and entertainment and calypso/reggae sounds of the Caribbean Extravaganza Steel Drum Band. There will be a cash bar, door prizes and a basket auction.

Lockport Locks and Canal Cruises will feature a signature drink. The venue will donate $1 from each sale back to the rescue.

Tickets, $35, are still available. Purchase them online at www.heartofniagara.org (events page) through PayPal, or by mail with a check payable to Heart of Niagara Animal Rescue. Mail to Heart of Niagara Animal Rescue, PO Box 462, Lewiston, NY 14092. All tickets will be mailed ahead of time to expedite boarding onto cruise boats at 6:15 p.m.

"Cruisin' On The Canal," like all HON events and appearances, will raise necessary funds as volunteers work to save animals and one day own an HON building. A central HON location will expedite the adoption process by providing a place for the public to view animals; staff and volunteer training sessions; dog behavioral training; and volunteer meetings.

Heart of Niagara is 501(c) 3 not-for-profit companion animal rescue organization based in Niagara County. Its mission is to protect the health and welfare of abandoned, unwanted and homeless animals. Organizers have adopted out more than 175 animals to date. They operate solely on donations and the generosity and support of the public.

For more information on HON and adoption, call 716-345-7129. For tickets, donations and sponsorships, call Linda van Harssel at 716-622-1213.