Jazz Cat Ball

Animal Advocates Don Penguin Suits for Fundraiser

The spirit of Mardi Gras cast its spell at the 12th annual Jazz Cat Ball, the Greater Birmingham Humane Society fundraiser held at the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel Ballroom on Feb. 4.

The black-tie gala, one of the largest animal rescue fundraisers in the South, was a festive occasion, with a seated dinner, live music by Revel Radio, a casino, and live and online auctions.

This year’s honorary chairs were Jody and Betty Saiia. Both are lifelong animal lovers and advocates and have worked to advance the humane society’s mission to promote the humane treatment of people and animals through education advocacy and service. ❖

Mayor Frank Brocato presented his State of the City address during the Hoover Service Club’s Feb. 9 meeting at the Hoover Country Club.

He updated club members on the city’s achievements and future plans.

The club’s Act of Community Service Project was Hoover Helps, which creates and supports programs to help meet the basic needs of children in Hoover, especially regarding food insecurity.

Members were asked to give $20 to $25 food gift cards from ChickFil-A, McDonald’s and other restaurants to be given to high school students who may go without food, particularly on the weekends, according to club President Debbie Vandiver Rutherford.