WESTFIELD – With the lack of snow this winter, dog owners have had the opportunity to use the Arm Brook Park on Lockhouse Road more readily for daily jaunts.
Since the park does not receive funding from the city, the non-profit Westfield Dog Bark Friends group must raise funds during the year to pay for routine maintenance and updates. On March 11, its annual Pasta for the Park fundraiser is planned from 6-8 p.m. at the Sons of Erin at 22 William Street
Nora’s Restaurant & Lounge will be catering the event with a menu that includes salad, pasta and meatballs and dessert. A cash bar is available.
“The funds we raise pays for the ongoing maintenance including areas that need to be mulched,” said Marilyn Sandidge, vice president.
Sandidge also noted that amenities for the canines during the year include toys, dog waste bags and water bowls. In addition, some funds raised are also set aside for updates and expansion plans.
During the fundraiser, tickets will be available for a 50/50 raffle and a two-tier raffle ranging from gift baskets to gift cards. Winners will be drawn at 8 p.m.
“We welcome monetary donations and raffle prizes from the public for our event,” said Sandidge.
Tickets are $15 per person and are available online at WestfieldDogBark.com. Tickets will also be available at the door.
“The dog park has become a popular place for dog owners,” said Sandidge who also brings her own dogs, “Solo,” a Labrador and Greyhound mix, and “Tillie,” a Chow and Australian Shepherd mix, to the park as often as possible. “We have a good number of patrons even in the cold weather.”
Sandidge said the dog park is a “positive” for the city’s residents.
“The park does not receive city funding so we rely on volunteers to help,” she said. “The park has a very friendly atmosphere.”
Sandidge also credits the group’s secretary, Lindsay Carr, for her boundless energy in ensuring a successful fundraiser.
“We raised $1,600 last year so we hope to raise $2,000 this year,” said Carr.
The group will meet Feb. 15 at 7 p.m. at the Dunkin Donuts, 127 North Elm St., to finalize plans for the fundraiser. Carr noted that the public is welcome to attend.
