Lehigh Valley Humane Society Hosts Second Annual Garden Party

From left, Lehigh Valley Humane Society Director of Development Jackie Folsom and Executive Assistant Madison Xander woman the checkin desk.

Story, photos by Sharon Kozden

~~ for Lilyaulait Kozden (end of mouse patrol, 7/24/17)

“Of all the special things we choose to do for our planet, let one of them be of service to animals.”  – Paul Oxton

“People look at you peculiar if you talk about the feeling you got for animals, saying animals have no souls, no sense of good or bad, no value up next to humans,” he said. “I don’t know about that. Sometimes I think animals are the ones who should be saying such things about us.” He shook his head. “Animals can tear your heart out. They can maim you. They can kill you dead on instinct alone and saunter into the next minute like it was nothing. But at least you know the ground rules with animals. You never know with people. Even the good can hurt you bad, and the bad, well, they’re going to hurt you but good.” He dropped his arm from the window to rub his gnarled hand. “It’s why I keep choosing animals.” – Lynda Rutledge

Most weekdays you’ll find me inside a small stone building with a fire engine-red entrance door in the affluent Philadelphia Main Line suburb of Gladwyne. Just outside Cleopetra’s Grooming, suds spurt from a small ground space and take flight. All day long, soapy poufs burble up, then split off like tiny clouds adrift in air. Inside, a trio of aproned women navigate a large room filled with varying sizes and breeds of dogs. Hand dryers roar. Large steel tubs contain hoses that deliver shampoo and water for bathing and rinsing. Squeaky-clean is the wash objective; achieving that goal is a skill-based endeavor, rendering works of art when accurately delivered. Trust me: I know. And that’s just the bathing portion of the process. The actual grooming involves razor-sharp scissors wielded with a deft, masterful touch. I’m not exaggerating when I tell you an expert groomer is an artist in the truest sense of the word.

On the daily, the bark goes on. Clients’ pets sometimes enter bedraggled with earthen stench but exit smelling fresh and looking photo-shoot ready. The work involved in dog grooming is exceedingly labor-intensive. Daisy, the Golden Retriever doesn’t actually jump with joy into a tub. And Peggy, the large Goldendoodle protests mightily before I am able to cajole her onto a groomer’s table. Bubba, the black Labrador had a coat so dense and unctuous that he required assiduous bathing before any shampoo would penetrate his skin. “Tinkles” and “makes” come and are immediately snatched out of sight into plastic blue doggie bags or mop-squeezed into a bucket. It’s a dogs’ life, for certain, and I say that with the immense pride and satisfaction derived from working with passion.

As this article’s preamble quote states, I am living and working in the service of animals. I love them all. While I’m paid an hourly wage, I often (and with beatific grin) teasingly ask clients on checkout, “Can you believe I’m actually paid for this?”

But there are other individuals who live “in the service of animals” with much more commitment and selfless devotion than what I’ve just described. They are on another level altogether. I had the pleasure, on one recent perfect spring day in May, of engaging with these lovely and loving folks at Bell Gate Farm (Coopersburg, Pennsylvania) for the Lehigh Valley Humane Society‘s Second Annual Garden Party.

It was my second successive year attending the garden party, so I knew the lay of the land for both venue and event. While some of the “players” also were familiar, I met plenty of new folks and made additional canine friends. On check-in, I was warmly greeted by Lehigh Valley Humane Society’s Director of Development, Jackie Folsom, who remembered me from the previous May. We chatted a bit before I slipped into my photojournalist role and proceeded to photograph scenes and scenery, while chatting up guests and engaging with some very sweet dogs. Knowing that I would be eating some luscious foodstuffs, I arrived with empty belly and a bit parched, fully prepared to imbibe the featured specialty cocktail and other drinkables.

The Big Barn was in full swing when I entered and met my invited plus-one (sister). Super-friendly mixologists granted my request for a B.R.F (Black River Farms) Sparkling Raspberry wine (I would try the mango version later). I could really kick myself for not getting a photograph that quenchable because it was so very good–as light, refreshing, fruity and sparkling as the name suggests. The ever-popular Tito’s Vodka, Samuel Adams beers and more Black River Farms (Bethlehem, PA) wines (Hatch, Tilly and Trolley Barn Raspberry) rounded out the bar menu. A wine pool station was warmly and invitingly decorated and offered a mix of whites, reds and roses at twenty bucks a pop.

When I discovered edibles would be provided by Diana’s Cafe and Catering (a Center Valley-based, family-owned and scratch kitchen-serving eatery), I knew our collective bellies were in good hands. Diana’s is a staple in the area, known for downhome and attractively presented cooking using fresh ingredients, home-roasted coffee and an on-site bakery. I’ve eaten there on many occasions and can attest that the many five-star review ratings are spot-on. Diana herself even posed for a snap (see below), despite being super-busy.

There was no lack of variety in the comestible offerings. Most were light bites that included several types of finger sandwiches–ham and cheese and chicken-salad sliders on buttery croissant rolls, warm tidbits such as sauce-coated meatballs, cheesy croquette balls, pastry puffs with delectable fillings, the always welcome and perfect wine-accompanying cheese platters, a gorgeous caprese salad and my favorite, a cous-cous salad, which was akin to a mini-meal in a cup. See what I mean about plentiful options? Attendees who still had room for sweet treats enjoyed confectioners’ sugar-dusted lemon squares, assorted saucer-sized cookies and the creme de la creme, a smooth pink confection that appeared pudding-like and oh, so tasty-looking. Well done, Diana’s Catering. You never disappoint and always impress.

While nibbling and sipping, guests moved through Bell Gate Farm’s Big Barn, where many could be found at the silent auction table, admiring the offerings while attaching names and bids to paper. Some articles were so large they were parked outside of the barn–a Schwinn bicycle with an affixed basket bursting with flowers as well as a posh pet home displayed on a trailer-hitched flatbed. It was one upscale abode–a modern condo featuring a pool and massive plush bed. Additionally, one very lucky couple was the highest bidder for a luxe seven-to-ten-night stay in tropical St. Lucia. Catherine Keys of Tom Hall Auctions, Inc. did a splendid job as auctioneer; she’s a major supporter of the non-profit organization to boot.

Back outside, I delighted in photographing the adoptable dogs as well as the other pups on hand. And just as guests were decked out in springtime finery, the pooches were equally festive with accessorized collars. Gents sported casual ware, including bow ties, straw hats, khaki shorts and cheerfully colored and patterned shirts; ladies knocked it out of the park with a diverse array of stunning floral-themed attire.

My favorite moment during the event came when I met the guest of honor, a dog named DJ. You can read more about his story in the photo series accompanying this article; however, suffice to say this doggo honors the description of “man’s best friend.” His trial-and-tribulations-turned-survival story will melt your heart. I was honored to meet the young couple who adopted DJ as well as to photograph the exemplary family. DJ posed for my camera in such a way that he oozed gratitude and love. I think of DJ and his owners often and am reminded of the “Who Rescued Whom?” phrase I often see on bumper stickers of cars driven by animal-rescuing or adopting parents.

After being fed, watered and socialized, the humans settled in for … no, not a nap … rather, they sat on command when it was announced that principals would be taking to the microphone. Well-trained, said humans. LVHS President and CEO Hal Warner spoke eloquently about the organization’s mission, achievements and more. Andy Knapp had the audience’s attention from start to finish, service awards were doled out and a framed artistic rendering of the “old” building was presented. While the shelter will remain at its present location, a four-million-dollar renovation and expansion will add 10,000 square feet to the existing building and will contain a community vet clinic among other essential upgrades, animal living spaces included.

Warner previously reflected on the phenomenal level of need for a community vet clinic seen in the past few years. He said of the demand, “It just keeps growing, and growing, and growing.” A core tenet of LVHS’s dog-ma [sic] is the conviction that those who meet the criteria for good-home provision for an animal should have the opportunity to own one, socio-economic status be damned. And with veterinary care being pricey along with a high demand for pets, the non-profit organization is determined to see its philosophy realized.

In fact, the Garden Party, through the contributions of attendees and other supportive givers. raised an impressive $42, 520.32. That’s some magnanimous giving, every penny of which was deposited into “Addie’s Fund,” the account established to assist in defraying sky-high costs of pet ownership for those who, despite dearly loving their animals, simply cannot keep pace with rising care fees and overall expenses. Addie was a senior woman who appealed to the shelter when she became unable to keep her dog because of the aforementioned reasons. Addie was in good company with her struggle, hence the fund’s conception and ongoing success.

I am already looking forward to the 2023 Garden Party. Until then and Maker-willing, I remain your Gladwyne-based writer-photographer as well as one soapy-sudsy dog bather, wannabe groomer apprentice, poo- and pee-clearing, fresh-water bearing and ball-tossing, cat ears-adorned noise-reduction headphone-wearing (oh, the irony of cat ears in a dog-grooming shop), love- and affection-giving one who “keeps choosing animals.” Shout out to Tillie Rose, Kaiaulait (Mister Kai-Kai) and Belle du Joule (Baby Joule, never forgotten) Kozden, my motley brood, my world.

Look for more changes and updates to come in 2022 for the Lehigh Valley Humane Society (formerly Lehigh County Humane Society), such as the community veterinary clinic (a first in the Lehigh Valley), upgraded, modernized living areas for the dogs and cats as well as a new look in both the lobby and adoption center. For more information and to follow the exciting progress at LVHS, visit lehighvalleyhumanesociety.org.

Bell Gate Farm in Coopersburg, PA boasts exquisite landscaping as pictured during springtime.

A trio of silos tower sentry-like at Bell Gate Farm’s entrance.

The grounds at Bell Gate Farm are lush, verdant, bucolic and beautifully manicured.

Rusty old tractor equipment and an old-fashioned farmhouse milk pail become repurposed rural adornment near the barn’s entrance.

Garden party attendees relax and chat in a spacious and comfy seating area just beyond the check-in tent.

Smiles abound from this sofa-seated quartet.

A sunnies-sporting couple enjoys some porch time just outside the barn’s interior.

Meet the one and only “Marilyn Monroe.” Such an expressive face on this girl.

From Left, Volunteer Coordinator Stephanie Skyriotis and Director of Development Jackie Folsom pause momentarily before resuming event roles.

From left, “Marilyn Monroe” and her companion gent bearing a treat stash. Gentlemen prefer dogs.

Man’s best friend, in this instance, is an LVHS Lead Volunteer’s  (Dog Walking Team) bestie.

Cabaret Jazz Band Ginger and The Schnappes reprised their role from 2021, entertaining the crowd with superb musicality and vocals.

A trio of blond-haired ladies enjoy deck time with a very fine canine.

My photographer’s eye zoomed in on this dapper duo, whose garden-party style sense is spot-on.

Seasoned LVHS volunteer and Lead Dog Walk Team member Anthony Knapp (at left) and other guests live it up, garden-party style.

Attendees posing in a group hug exude casual and effortless cool.

From Left, Lehigh Valley Humane Society’s Lead Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) Lucas Holland relaxes with his sweetie.

DJ’s story will melt your heart.

DJ is quite the poser as well as one handsome and expressive lad.

If you’re trying to tell me that you’re living a contented life and then some, I got the picture, DJ.

Meeting and photographing DJ’s Dad and Mom was a special moment for me.

From Left, Volunteer Coordinator Stephanie Skyriotis, Gladwyne-based writer and photographer Sharon Kozden and Director of Development Jackie Folsom strike a pose just outside the barn.

Mixologists stand ready and eager to dole out the pours.

I tried both fruity offerings from Black River Farm and could not stop talking up those mango and raspberry sparklers. Note the cute kitty faces on the plant’s cheerful wrapping paper. It’s all in the details.

That’s quite the eye-catching poster feat. one “lei’d” back, chill-looking dude.

The warm and rustic wine pool display is presided over by a floral-matched assistant.

This enchanting bouquet was one of many floral arrangements sprinkled throughout. After all, what’s a garden party sans flowers galore?

Center Valley-based Diana’s Cafe catered the affair, providing a diverse variety of delectable foodstuffs.

Smol sammies [sic] were a hit with their bite-sized tasty delight.

Saucy meatballs provided a protein boost.

Soft and flaky puff-crusts surround the meaty interior of these mini ‘furters.

Chicken Salad Sliders were filling and tasty; those croissant rolls were buttery fresh.

Cheese platters are my favorite light bite. Each and every chunk is a flavor revelation, and ‘ll try them all if you cheese, please.

A calcium-charged bounty of dairy and antioxidant-laden fruit boost bone density while pummeling those free radicals.

These cheesy croquette balls ooze good eatin’!

Couscous salads in dainty cups with tiny spoons contain the perfect blend of avocado, cheese and pearly couscous balls mixed with a tasty dressing.

While I’m familiar with alternating layers of large oval slabs of mozzarella and sandwich-sized tomato slices in a Caprese salad, this skewered presentation of the summertime staple (with cherry tomatoes, cheese balls and petite greens) was luscious.

Tassie me these flaky pastries oozing a savory interior right down the ol’ gullet.

Light and crispy rolls filled with savory interiors tasted as scrumptious as they appear.

Lemon squares dusted with confectioner’s sugar atop a crumbly bottom were creamy and citrusy–a smooth and soothing sweet treat.

A variety of desserts are displayed on tier-shelved ladders. I missed the opportunity to photograph close-up those creamy pink concoctions stage lower right–they were scooped up that quickly.

One garden-party goddess brings that certain “je ne sais quoi” (a quality not easily described) to the table.

A small space near the bar offered a charming and whimsical seating area. Piggy pillows!

Check out the matching naturistic color palette on this fashionable couple.

Attendees decked out in garden-party finery enjoyed the festive atmosphere amid rustic decor and plentiful floral accents.

A smiling threesome sports varying shades of pink. Hiya, photo bomber!

From Left, President and CEO Hal Warner poses with my event plus-one guest (and sister), Sandy Kozden.

Occupying some prime floor-space real estate, this doggo receives a belly scratch as onlookers watch.

The party scene was in full swing.

Shelter-pet paintings with pastel-colored background swatches are attractively displayed and lighted. They were for sale to boot!

What? Wait. Whoa — made with peanut butter?! Sign says.

A delicate and sheer floral maxi dress meets another floral maxi in black and white print accented with denim.

We all hopped to the Live Auction to bid on our favorite items.

A guest held her auction paddle as the countdown to bidding neared.

Attractively presented auction items make for an opportunity to shop ’til dropping for the love of animals.

“Jouets pour chat” are some of my very favorite things.

My puppy would have field day with this cellophane-wrapped tote bursting with various and sundry toys and necessities.

Some very fortunate feline will be the contented recipient of this gorgeous gift basket.

While the Big Barn housed the grandest table of articles, several outdoor stations permitted further opportunities to give generously.

Will artist Sandra Corpora accept a commission request to paint my brood of three?

Hush-hush, sweet shopaholics.

There’s nothing like a nostalgic Schwinn bicycle on which to tool about town. Attach a charming countrified basket bursting with flowers, and you’ll be the picture of a jaunty, blithe and winsome hometown gadabout.

Talk about a coveted auction item — this has to be near the top of “as good as it gets.” A colorful sand-filled (and spilled) pail topped with seashells beckons folks to the sign-up sheet. I can almost smell the Coppertone lotion.

This lucky couple is St. Lucia-bound. Bon voyage, y’all!

Holy tiny houses, Barkman! Someone’s pet is going to be singing the “Movin’ on Up” tune on receiving this absolutely gorgeous home with king bed and pool to boot.

Stephanie Skyriotis addresses the crowd just prior to the Silent Auction’s kick-off. Electrifying day lilies on a fab maxi dress, Lady!

Catherine Keys (Vice President of Tom Hall Auctions, Inc.) served as event auctioneer. Catherine also is a major supporter of LVHS.

From Left, Volunteer Coordinator Stephanie Skyriotis with 2022’s “Volunteer of the Year” award recipient, Sherry Farrell.

Seasoned LVHS volunteer and Lead Dog Walk Team member Anthony Knapp makes an impassioned statement to a rapt audience.

Lehigh Valley Humane Society President and CEO Hal Warner delivers a heartfelt talk about the amazing work accomplished by LVHS.

From Left, Lehigh Valley Humane Society President and CEO Hal Warner waxes grateful over the many contributions to the organization by Director of Operations Teisha Jones, who was presented with an award for her decade of dedicated service to LVHS.

LVHS Director of Operations Teisha Jones joyfully greets her daughter, who surprised her mother with her presence during the ceremony. In the background, Catherine Keys and Hal Warner share the joy feels.

Teisha Jones holds her service award, while her daughter presents an artistic rendering of the Society’s building on Dixon Street, Allentown, pre-renovation.

From Left, Garden Party Producer and Director Stephanie Skyriotis admires a framed rendering of LVHS’s pre-renovation home on Dixon Street in Allentown, while Director of Development Jackie Folsom takes to the mic. Steph also received an award for her 12 years of dedicated service to LVHS.

Gladwyne-based writer and photographer Sharon Kozden fronts Bell Gate Farm’s directional signs.

Thanks for hosting me and my plus one at your fabulous event, LVHS!

While her earthly journey was brief (a mere two months) and cut short by a serious viral disease, Lilyaulait Kozden was fiercely loved.