Councilman John J. Lombardi presented a total of $14,400 on August 25th to two Providence animal shelters. On hand to receive the checks were Virginia Hanbridge, Executive Director of Providence Animal Rescue League, and Richard Sousa, Acting Director of the Providence Animal Control Center.
The funds were raised during a fundraising event on July 25th at the MiraBar in downtown Providence. The event, dubbed “A Night to Howl,” was attended by hundreds of animal lovers whose donations will benefit the shelters and their furry residents. Each shelter received a check for $7,200.
Councilman John J. Lombardi, chairman of the Council's Commission to Investigate and Make Recommendations Regarding the Administration and Operation of the Providence Animal Control Center, was the driving force behind the benefit, which featured performances by Carol O'Shaughnessy (the "First Lady of Cabaret"), Karaoke Under the Stars, and a Tribute to Michael Jackson/Retro Dance Party, with DJ Cisco.
The councilman stated that, "The community really came together for this event, which was especially heartening considering the fact that many people are struggling financially in today’s economy.
They donated time, energy, and money to make the fundraiser a success to help improve the quality of life for shelter animals.” Lombardi also thanked WRIK for the karaoke, hosted by Miss Kitty Litter; Rhode Island Modeling for the Doggie Fashion Show; and Park Avenue Puppies of Cranston.
A long-time advocate for animals, Lombardi sponsored a 2002 ordinance, approved by the City Council, which banned the use of the gas chamber, and requires humane methods when euthanizing animals. In recognition of his efforts, he received the 2004 Defenders of Animals Humane Award.
Speaking of the society’s obligation to protect all living creatures, Lombardi noted that “compassion for all living things is the sine qua non for enlightened governance.” He added that, "Mahatma Gandhi said that, ‘The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.’ With these donations, Providence can continue to set an example for the humane treatment of animals.”
