Score a strike for a good cause

WASILLA — Pins for Paws, an afternoon to bowl with the Avalanche hockey team, will take place from 2 to 4 p.m., Saturday at North Bowl in support of the nonprofit organization Advocates for Dog and Puppy Wellness (ADPW).

Founded late last year, ADPW is a local organization with a purpose of raising awareness about animal shelters and educating the public about taking the option of adoption. Just this month Blake Huppert, Valley-grown and current Avalanche player, opted to adopt a 7-year-old Labrador retriever from the Mat-Su animal shelter.

“Growing up, my family has always adopted shelter animals and after seeing the 180 rescued dogs come into the shelter this week I truly believe that it is our responsibility as a community to give these dogs’ warm homes,” he said.

Huppert has done his part and the rest is up to the community. Hopefully, with the Avalanche acting as a catalyst to propel this event into the public eye, more of the shelter animals will find homes.

Although the Avs are taking this week off from any hockey games they are staying very involved in the community. From 11 a.m. to noon, people are encouraged to bring their children ages 8 and younger to the Palmer Ice Arena Saturday for an opportunity to skate with the Avalanche team.

Following this, the Avalanche players will head to North Bowl to host Pins for Paws. People of all ages are invited to bowl and meet the entire team. Along with bowling, there will also be a raffle for an Avalanche jersey, other team paraphernalia and opportunities for photos to be taken with the players. Admission price is $20 per person, and one raffle ticket is included with each admission, with proceeds benefitting ADPW.

Founder of ADPW, Julie Johnson stated, “We are looking forward to this event with the Avalanche. They have been very supportive with planning and implementing this function and we are very satisfied with coach (Brian) Huebel and the rest of the organization.”

Whether an Avalanche fan or a dedicated animal shelter supporter, everyone is encouraged to attend this event to support the community.

Being considered by many as local celebrities, the Avalanche players put their Valley fame to excellent use for a terrific cause. Pins for Paws is bound to be a success this upcoming Saturday. Space is limited and can be reserved online at advocatefordogandpuppywellness.org for a chance to bowl with the Avalanche and show animal shelter support.

Casey Branch is a student at Colony High School.