"Blue Dog" artist George Rodrigue to attend Helen Woodward Animal Center's 2006 Spring Fling

Rancho Santa Fe, CA - World famous "Blue Dog" artist George Rodrigue (rah-Dreeg") will be the honored guest during Helen Woodward Animal Center's 18th annual Spring Fling fundraiser. The event entitled "Blue Dog Lounge.Where the SophistiCats are Seen" will be held on Saturday, June 3 in Rancho Santa Fe.

"We're so pleased that George Rodrigue will attend the Spring Fling," says Fling Chair (and artist) Debra Saum. "His presence will make Blue Dog Lounge so memorable for our guests."

"We'll transform the Fairbanks Village Plaza into the enchanting Blue Dog Lounge," says Helen Woodward Animal Center Special Events Supervisor Amy Van Atta. "Our animals will welcome guests as they begin an evening of fine food and drink. KUSI-TV personalities Bridget Naso and Daniel Plante will return as M.C.'s and San Diego restaurant reviewer Jack White will judge food provided by 20 of the area's finest restaurants. Nothing compares to the Spring Fling."

Van Atta adds that donations continue to arrive for the Live and Silent auctions. "The business that who donate goods, services, and trips for the Spring Fling amaze us with their generosity and their creativity! Guests fortunate enough to place winning bids will go home very happy."

"Blue Dog" seating includes valet parking, fine dining and wine tasting, hosted bars, and dancing until midnight to the music of "NRG" at just $225 per person.

"Platinum Dog" seating at $300 per person includes all the luxuries of Blue Dog plus champagne, preferred VIP seating, express VIP table service, a unique commemorative gift and an invitation to the special "Patron Party" held at the Del Mar Country Club on May 30th.

Saum expresses her thanks to the Toby Wells Foundation and to Tucker Sadler Architects, two major Spring Fling sponsors. "We are very grateful for the continued support that the San Diego business community gives to Helen Woodward Animal Center. Because of their generosity, we are able to continue our mission of 'people helping animals and animals helping people'."

To make a donation for the live or silent auctions call Amy Van Atta at 858-756-4117 x 349. Ticket information is available by calling Jacqui Simpson at x 350. A limited number of sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Nedra Abramson at x 312.

Additional information about "Blue Dog Lounge.Where the SophistiCats are Seen" is available at Helen Woodward Animal Center at 6461 El Apajo Road in Rancho Santa Fe.