Pennsylvania SPCA Gives Something to Bark About at 10th Annual Bark & Whine Gala

Beautiful gala program design befits a decade’s worth of honoring advocacy.

Story, photos by Sharon Kozden

“… Home … and further joy will be surely there:
Supper waiting full of the taste of bone.
You throw up your nose again, and sniff, and stare
For the rapture known
Of the quick wild gorge of food and the still lie-down
While your people talk above you in the light.”
Of candles, and your dreams will merge and drown
Into the bed-delicious hours of night.” — From “Dog” by Harold Monro

Reading the above excerpt from Harold Monro’s poem brings me closer to understanding a dog’s life. The power of the written word that is poetry is undeniable. “Bed-delicious” hours of the night. But that imagery! I can envision my own pup Tillie Rose snuggling by my side in said bed-delicious delight. Provided her body makes contact with mine, however tiny the touch, she’s contented and no doubt dreaming of some future Chewy delivery. My cats also express contentment and love, albeit in distinctive feline fashion.

Unfortunately, and something that is difficult for me to wrap my mind around, not all animals are privy to a loving home. Which is why most races I run direct their proceeds raised to benefit animals. It also is why my favorite balls and galas to cover on assignment are overwhelmingly animal-advocacy charity fundraisers. I’m a legacy funder to boot, dividing my hopefully gone-not-too-soon spoils among several non-profits, including the Pennsylvania SPCA.

And speaking of races, sign up now for the 12th Annual Tails & Trails 5k/2k scheduled for June 3, 2023 at Main Line Animal Rescue in beautiful Chester County. I’m all in; see you there!

In November, 2022, I sat front and center during PSPCA’s 10th Annual Bark & Whine Gala held at 2300 Arena in Philly. The gala was a last-minute discovery on my part–a real long shot of an assignment “get.” Initially, my story pitch failed to find acceptance. Then, in the 11th hour, my gracious host, PSPCA’s Director of Public Relations and Marketing Gillian Kocher offered me a seat at her table.

I Uber-rode to the venue and set about capturing the scene, which featured an impressive gathering of folks committed to, as the event’s program states, “showcasing the PSPCA’s mission and adoptable animals and to honor animal advocates for their contributions to the organization and animal welfare in general.”

The PSPCA relies on the support of private donations to do their mission-critical work. Consequently, the annual fundraiser is a not-to-be-missed opportunity for the animal-championing organization. In fact, save the date of Saturday, November 18th, 2023 for the 11th Annual Bark & Whine Gala at the URBN (Navy Yard) in Philadelphia.

I can attest that the silent auction items will be first-rate whether big- or smaller-ticketed and worth the deep and generous dive into your wallets and/or Swiss bank accounts. Tell your friends. For the love of animals, mark those calendars and support the Pennsylvania SPCA’s primary mission since its 1867 founding, which is “to rescue animals from cruelty and neglect, rehabilitate them medically and behaviorally, advocate for justice and animal welfare policy change, and prevent cruelty by providing affordable veterinary and other services to our community.”

While the word gala already suggests all that and more, Bark & Whine 2022 was the cat’s meow, a true Best-in-Show winner. A decades long effort by a team of dedicated individuals on a mission in the service of animals calls for a festive occasion to in which to honor, acknowledge and celebrate the fruits of such devoted labors of love. Despite being a veteran attendee of many such events over the more than five years I’ve been on the social scene, I was still beyond bedazzled that evening.

After checking in, I stopped to greet every adoptable pooch and cat on my way to the bar. Themed cocktails came courtesy of Tito’s Handmade Vodka and included Papillon Paloma (Tito’s Vodka, grapefruit, sparkling water, lime), Best in Show (Tito’s Vodka, sparkling water, lime), Cattitude (Tequila, serrano Chile, Anjou pear, lime) and No Ruff Days (Bourbon, chai spices, black walnut bitters). Pretty much any other drink also was yours for the asking from some very friendly and responsive servers. Simple side snacks such as salted mixed nuts and crispy breadsticks were a perfect nibble before sampling one gorgeous hors d’oeuvres spread.

Having met the adorable adoptables, I checked out the merch store and discovered a darling cable-knit beanie and a host of other items that would make perfect holiday gifts for any animal lover. Moving inside 2300 Arena … a multipurpose venue used primarily for live entertainment … a dining setting redolent with fresh flowers as centerpieces, ample food and drink stations, silent auction tables flush with bountiful bid offerings, a large stage with a deejay and a spacious dance floor comprised the panoramic scene.

Attendees began filling the space, inspecting auction items, plating and enjoying light bites from the plant-based station. Featured were Wild Mushroom Flatbread, Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Charred Cauliflower, Saffron Braised Artichokes, Impossible Burger Slider and Warm Brie Tartlette. Guests refreshed drinks and located their numbered tables in preparation for the hearty sit-down meal ahead. Out came the first course–a delicate salad of mixed greens and slender slivers of radish and red cabbage topped with a light and tasty dressing. My entree choice of fish was flaky, delicate and perfectly presented.

Considering the volume of foodstuffs (snacks, light bites and entree), I was pleased that dessert options wouldn’t sit in my belly like a brick. Fresh fruit cup. Chocolate macarons. Puff pastries. All were airy, light and not overly decadent. The digestif merits mention. Check out my photo below of the unique concoction of dark amber liqueur and inky chocolate swizzle stick in a martini glass.

While dining, guests listened to deejay-spun music and Master of Ceremonies Michael Bennett, who hosts the morning show at WTDY-FM in Philadelphia. Various speakers, including Gillian Kocher, CEO Julie Klim and more waxed eloquent and passionate in speeches highlighting successes and hard work, rescue efforts made by the PSPCA’s Humane Law Enforcement Team, volunteer contributions and honoree recipients’ very worthy achievements.

Karen Blackledge was recognized as 2022’s Volunteer of the Year. She can be found on the daily at the Danville Center location and has dedicated a staggering 10,000-plus hours (and counting!) of volunteer hours. Jeff Griffiths and Steven H. Korman joined the latest in a long list of past honorees, including Jennifer Utley, Gerry Shreiber, Helene van Buren, Lindy Snider, George Bengal, Marsha Perelman, Mickey and Larry Magid, Patty and Larry Bowa, The Honorable Ed Rendell, Pamela Berkman, Katie and Marc Hembrough and friends Troutman Pepper … quite the distinguished list at that.

Unfortunately, Mr. Griffiths was unable to attend. However, he was lauded for his commitment to the non-profit’s mission as well as for the leadership skills he has demonstrated during his many years as both Board member and Board Chairman. Mr. Korman, whose business achievements and philanthropic work precede him, graced the stage to accept award with the same compassionate presence he exhibits as a fierce animal advocate. Guests viewed a video that was admittedly a tough watch at times but was filled with especially touching moments as well such as an endearing slide of Mr. Korman and pooch in a sweet embrace.

To round out the evening, dancers let loose their moves on the floor with both energy and calories to burn. Afterward, the room began to clear as folks collected swag bags, checked out coats and proceeded to hail rides bound for home, no doubt ready to kick off heels, loosen ties and sink into those “bed-delicious hours of night” along with their own beloved pets.

For more information, check out pspca.org

“Every animal is worthy. Every animal is important.” Success stories are a Pennsylvania SPCA specialty.

But first, merch!

One of each, please.

Faux-fur pom beanie caps in shades of charcoal and light grey are the perfect wintertime accessory.

Gotta rock and rep with a pom-pom topper.

The guests were happy to pause for a pose.

I always belly up to the bar when Tito’s is in the house.

A guest enjoys the cocktail hour featuring themed drinks and crunchy-crispy snacks.

Attendees enjoyed specialty drinks at the warm, welcoming bar area.

Clinking glasses over furry friends one and all. Cheers!

Cocktail hour with bling and a fresh mani.

This glam team is all dolled up for a very special evening.

I did not ask, but he’s smiling, so there’s that.

A dynamic blond duo is dressed to impress.

The Pennsylvania SPCA gang was well represented in a group shot.

Was yours the one lucky key?

This well-stocked display of cabinet contents boasts top name brands and plenty of them.

I can has cuddle! Guests mingled with plenty of adorable adoptables.

While I do like my fleece blankie, I’d much rather be released into your arms.

Cat ladies happy to show off their adoptable charges.

This duo enjoyed pre-dinner drinks and snacks.

This little one appears camera shy but clearly enjoys the attention.

These two seem to have formed a bond.

There was a time in late 2022 known as Red October, where every event doubled as a Phillies game watch party.

Silent auction items were fabulous and plentiful.

Let light shine through this stunning stained-glass work of art.

The warmth of russet and tans hues will intensify with a penetrating slice of sun as backdrop for this work of art.

Trusty Rusty stands poised, alert and prepared to mind gardens and yards alike.

Guests were treated to drinks with names! Clever ones to boot.

Reading menus such as the above is veritable taste-bud warmup. These were just for starters!

The lightest of light bites begins with crispy Romaine lettuce.

Roasted Brussel Sprouts were garnished with Purple Kalettes.

Wild Mushroom Flatbread tasted as good as it looks.

Pan-seared salmon with chive crema is chock full of healthy fats.

Fresh flowers as centerpieces are always the mark of beautiful table scaping.

An elegant dining table setting is a visual statement-maker.

Sitting down to celebrate a decade’s worth of animal rescue, protection and more, which I read all about it in this beautifully designed program.

An appetizer salad of delicate greens serves as the dinner’s first course.

When available, I always choose fish as an entree choice. How lovely is the sauced presentation here.

After filling up on starters and a main course, I was grateful for a dessert option of a fresh-fruit cup.

Luscious, sweet-treat indulgence also was a dessert option.

An elegant Digestif boasts a chocolate accent.

Big smiles lighted up an evening dedicated to the love of animals.

Bespoke auction-stick paddles were frequently held aloft.

Gents rock their sartorial fan-boy best.

Guests dine as animal artistry hovers on high.

Supporters and donators sport illuminated necklaces.

The evening’s emcee Michael Bennett and his date cozy up for the camera.

Beaming attendees prepare to dine.

Those who gave a certain sum were honored with this illuminated blue and white paw emblem.

Michael Bennett, Host on Today’s 96.5 FM Philadelphia, served as Master of Ceremonies.

Director of Public Relations and Marketing for the Pennsylvania SPCA, Gillian Kocher hoists the Canine of the Hour.

Guests watched a video presentation that was alternately heart-wrenching and heart-warming.

From Left, writer Sharon Kozden and PASPACA’s Gillian Kocher flank a super-supporter.

From Left, Master of Ceremonies Michael Bennett and Director of Public Relations Gillian Kocher are overjoyed to be celebrating a decade of Bark & Whine.