Wearing white after Labor Day is often considered a fashion faux pas, but not on Oct. 18 at Ferrante’s Lakeview in Hempfield.

Animal Friends of Westmoreland called its 14th annual auction gala the White Party, and guests were invited to dress up or dress down for the theme. (Maybe they were just getting a jump on winter.)

Those with VIP tickets were invited to come early for a champagne toast, open bar, priority seating, swag bags and more preferential perks.

The main event followed with dinner, dessert and live, silent and Chinese auctions.

Funds raised are going to construction of a new facility on the organization’s 62-acre large-animal sanctuary in Unity, which will house dogs, cats and rabbits currently held at a shelter in Youngwood.

AFW says plans include “an on-site veterinarian clinic to provide low cost medical (care) for the public, as well as off-leash dog play yards, enrichment and walking trails and Henry’s Rest, a memorial site for beloved animals who have passed.”

In addition a “wish list” of ongoing shelter needs can be viewed at animalfriendswestmore land.org. FYI, while you might not care for kale and spinach, but it makes a great treat for the bunnies.

Founder Candy Valentino served as White Party chairwoman, while auction chairwoman was Cheri Klinchock.

AFW board members include Jessica Rafferty, Jessica Marazza, Kelly Koshinsky, Sean Cassidy, Adam Quatrini, Margaret Tremba and Sarah DeWald.

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