Cats, Art, Pizza, and The Blues
A little morning rain didn’t stop this cat-loving crowd from gathering at The Goathouse Refuge this past Saturday, March 18th for their annual Pizza Brunch Benefit.
Nestled on 16 acres in the woodlands of Chatham County, North Carolina, The Goathouse Refuge is a non-profit, no-kill, free-roaming sanctuary for about 300 cats who have either been abandoned, lost, or are otherwise homeless. Every month, 20 to 30 cats are adopted, so it takes a lot of time, effort, and devotion to keep things running. Founder and local artist Siglinda Scarpa keeps it all afloat with the help of volunteers, contributors, and fundraisers like the annual Pizza Brunch.
Folks from as far as Sonoma, CA attended the festivities including music from Grammy-nominated MSG Acoustic Blues Trio who performed their distinctive Piedmont-style blues in Siglinda’s Garden. Over 100 of Siglinda’s signature artisanal pizzas were served throughout the day as attendees listened to music, enjoyed the garden, visited the art studio and adoption center, and mingled with friends from the community. All for one common goal: making sure that every cat who crosses their path is given a warm, safe home with meals and medical care. And, of course, love. Since its founding in 2007, The Goathouse has placed over 2,500 cats into forever homes.
Around mid-day, the clouds parted and the sun came out. Someone mentioned storytelling and locals took to the mic, regaling the audience with personal anecdotes and yarns from long ago. At one point, someone started singing and “playing” a red Solo cup. Not a huge stretch since Jackie, Miles, and Resa of MSG had just left off with a kazoo, a harmonica, a “multi-percussive” washboard, and some guitars.
All told it was a splendid day at The Goathouse and funds were raised to benefit the kittens and cats at the refuge.
Check out the website for more information and/or to make a donation. And do stop by The Goathouse Refuge the next time you’re in our neck of the woods!
Featured photo & video credit: Dave Tingler
