Mardi Gras goes to the dogs (and cats)

Written by Holly Hashimi
Wednesday, 22 February 2012 10:40

Sabrina is just one of the many animals at the Fort McMurray SPCA to benefit from the Mardi Gras party on Feb. 24. (Holly Hashimi) Fort McMurrayites are going to get a taste of the Big Easy while helping a good cause.

The Fort McMurray SPCA and Boston Pizza are hosting a Mardi Gras-themed party with all proceeds going to the animal shelter.

The event, which will feature live music, food and drink specials and raffles, is a fundraiser for the SPCA’s spay and neuter programs, vaccinations and educational programs.

“We are trying to make something different, something fun for people,” said Gabi Galeana, fundraising and events co-ordinator with the FMSPCA. “We thought that it was a good idea because there are no businesses in town doing Mardi Gras parties.”

Mardi Gras, which is French for “fat Tuesday,” has been an opportunity to indulge in rich, fatty foods before fasting fort Lent.

In New Orleans, Mardi Gras celebrations are world renowned. With parades, balls and parties it’s well-known for its strings of colourful beads worn at many celebrations.

The FMSPCA has teamed up with Boston Pizza for a number of fundraisers this year, including receiving partial proceeds from the restaurant chain’s annual Paper Hearts campaign.

“We think it is a pretty important business in town,” said Galeana. “They make things easier for us because we don’t have enough funds to do promotions.”

Jessica Musycsyn, community relations co-ordinator for Boston Pizza in Fort McMurray, said the current plight of the animal shelter encouraged the restaurant to offer assistance.

“They’ve been having a tough year…with a lot of robberies (from their can and bottle program) and they have a huge amount that is their goal to fundraise this year,” she said. “We thought they’d be a great charity to help out.”

The Mardi Gras event takes place Feb. 24 from 7 p.m. until closing at the downtown Boston Pizza lounge. The $10 cover charge will be donated to the FMSPCA.