The Eighth Annual Canines, Cats, and Cabernet event will be held on Friday, March 21, 2014, beginning at 6:00 p.m., at The Depot Cultural Center.  This event, which happens every March, is the signature fundraiser for the Corinne T. Smith Animal Center.

The Corinne T. Smith Animal Center serves five central Texas counties, and cares for over 3,000 homeless animals each year.  According to Freda Day, Administrative Manager, that requires about $500 per day.

“Thank goodness that a wonderful group of volunteers created this unique event,” said Day.  “The event’s sponsors actually pay for the cost of the event.  That means that every penny spent on tickets, raffle tickets, or auction items goes directly to the care of our animals.”

Leona Cleveland, chief organizer of Canines, Cats, and Cabernet, has made a few changes this year.  “In the past most of the wines we poured were made elsewhere,” said Cleveland.  “This year we have invited a number of Texas wineries to participate by serving their own wines.  Texas wines have really evolved within the past few years, so we wanted to give our supporters an opportunity to enjoy the wines grown by their Texas neighbors.”

Brennan Vineyards, in Comanche, has been part of Canines, Cats, and Cabernet for years.  Last year Wedding Oaks Vineyards, in San Saba, joined the event.  This year, also expected are Fiesta Winery, in Lometa, Texas; Legato, in Lampasas; and Pillar Bluff Vineyards, also in Lampasas.

A number of restaurants, bakeries, and caterers have long been part of the event as well.  Steves’ Market & Deli, CR Catering, Brownwood Country Club, Flour Power, Chili’s Grill & Bar, Prima Pasta, James Cleveland, and the Texas 4-H Center are always the first to sign up to bring their delicious offerings.  This year a number of new venders have been added.  Buffalo Wild Wings, Katy’s Steakhouse, Sweet Life Treats, and Chocolateness will all be there serving their own foods.  San Saba Olive Oil will have olive oil sampling.

Steve Carter, owner of Chocolateness, explained how his chocolates will be presented, “I am meeting with representatives from some of the wineries to pair my chocolates with the wines they will be pouring.”

Tickets to Canines, Cats, and Cabernet cost $50, and may be purchased at the Corinne T. Smith Animal Center, AgMart, or KOXE radio station.  For more information, call 325-642-1755.