Mewsletter-Winter2013-new35thlayout2_mewsletter 135 1/29/13 9:45 AM Page 1

The Sweethearts Are Here!

For the friends of the Independent Cat Society, a no-kill cat shelter They're here! The 2013 ICS Sweethearts are looking good and looking to win your vote. Please vote for the cat you feel is sweetest by donating in any amount in its name.

Winter 2013 #136

You can vote via Paypal, by mail, or by dropping it off at the shelter. Voting will continue through February, and the winner announced the first week in March on the website (www.catsociety.org), Facebook (www.facebook.com/indcatsociety), and in the shelter, and will appear in the next Mewsletter. The winner will be the glamourpuss who raises the most money. The victorious kitty will receive a bag of catnip and a new toy. So be a sweetie and vote for your favorite fabulous feline today!

Warm and colorful like a Hawaiian sunset, Aloha is a furry piece of tropical paradise! The word Aloha means both hello and good-bye, but did you know that now it also means Sweetheart?

Aloha

Adding gravitas to this year's competition is handsome Colin. Don't let his dignified and stately appearance fool you. Inside he is jumping up and down saying Vote for me! Please please please vote for me! Don't make him beg.

Colin

Unlike a certain well-known Homer, our Homer is truly a class act. Make sure you remember to vote for him, otherwise you'll find yourself saying D'oh!

Homer

Just look at that rugged profile and those captivating stripes! Looks plus charm makes Keoki fit the profile of a perfect Sweetheart. My name is Keoki and I appurrove this message!

Keoki

An elegant and stylish little miss, Madison came here as a young mom but has big dreams. She is soft, silky, and oh so sweet. Madison will win your heart - will your vote help her win the Sweetheart title?

Madison

Her dark smoldering tabby beauty makes Trinka a standout in any crowd. Take a stand and vote for Trinka!

Trinka

The word "gorgeous" doesn't even begin to do justice to Leo. Yet in spite of his movie star good looks, Leo is just a laidback love bug. And he would just LOVE to get your vote!

Leo

In celebration of our 35th anniversary, we are featuring 35 adoptable cats throughout this edition of the Mewsletter. Look for them inside!

35 Adoptable Cats Inside!

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Calendar of Events
Published for the friends of the Independent Cat Society, Inc. PO Box 735, Westville, IN 46391 (219) 785-4936

2013 Sweetheart Contest

Vote for your favorite sweetheart by donating any amount in their name. You can donate via the PayPal link at www.catsociety.org, by mail, or by dropping it off at the shelter.

February
January-February

The Independent Cat Societys mission is to promote the welfare of all animals, especially cats, by reducing pet overpopulation, educating the public, preventing cruelties to animals, promoting responsible pet ownership and working for more humane legislation. Adoption hours: Saturday, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm Sunday, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Others by appointment. Please call (219) 785-4936. Adoption fee: $75 Includes: Spay/neuter, vet exam, feline leukemia and FIV test; ageappropriate vaccinations; parasite treatment; tattoo ID or microchip; 30 Day No Cost Pet Insurance; cardboard cat carrier; and free follow-up postadoption participating vet visit. Companion Cat: $25. Board of Directors: President: Anastasia Trekles Vice-President: Tina Sleppy Recording Secretary: Judy Dean Corresponding Secretary: Mary Rooney Treasurer: Brett Wilson Board Members: Gail Frieden Joan Hildebrand Paulette Gonzalez Maureen Davey

The Independent Cat Society, Inc., founded in 1977, is a non-profit, nokill cat shelter on US Rt 6 at the Porter/LaPorte County Line Road in Westville, Indiana.

Web: www.catsociety.org Email: mewsletter@hotmail.com Also on Facebook: www.facebook.com/indcatsociety

Open Your Hearts Fundraiser

At the Ogden Dunes Fire Station Ogden Dunes, Indiana

February 16, 9-4

Dunes Cat Fanciers

At Woodland Park, Portage, Indiana

March

March 9 & March 10

Pussycat Pizza Party!

Aurelios, 2330 N. Highway 35 in LaPorte, Indiana

March 11, 6-9

Earth Day Festival

At the Expo Center, Valparaiso, Indiana

April
April 20

Black Cat Strut

At Sunset Hill County Park in Valparaiso, Indiana 5K Run/Fun Walk and 1 Mile Dog Walk Learn more and register at https://register.thtiming.com/Search/event.aspx?id=18192

April 28, 9 am

Melvin

is truly Garfield personified. His round face, handsome orange tabby stripes, and his love of lasagna make him the celebrity of Church's room. He loves a window view and can be very playful!

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Presidents Message
As we welcome 2013, the Independent Cat Society also welcomes a number of new board members, including myself as president, Gail Frieden and Joan Hildebrand as members at large, and Judy Dean as recording secretary. We look forward to a productive new year that brings much health and joy to our cats, as well as to our members. Greetings!

With that said, please allow me to take a few moments to introduce myself. My formal name is Anastasia, but most people call me Staci, and I am honored to have been elected the next ICS board president. I have been a volunteer at ICS since 2009, when I decided to go on a quest to find some furry friends to help and make a difference in their lives. I had recently lost my beloved childhood cat, Zelda, who was 23 when she passed, and I had also just undergone a divorce. Life was looking a little grim, but I knew that volunteering somewhere where I might be needed would cheer me up. I responded to a Mewsletter very much like this one and sent in a request to become a volunteer at ICS. Little did I know that I would not only make some furry friends, but also some wonderful friends of the people variety as well! Soon I was working fundraisers, helping feed cats, and I even worked as an early morning medicator for about a year. Since 2009 I have also adopted three ICS cats, whose antics are the highlight of my days (and nights) and who keep me young and thinking positively. Our most recent addition at my home in Valparaiso is Chaka, a 2011 Sweetheart Contest candidate and a truly lovely little tortie worthy of the sweetheart title.

So what made me decide to run for ICS board president? Honestly, it was another way I believed I could help the organization that I have grown so fond of. I am, by trade, an educator I have worked at Purdue University Calumet in Hammond, Indiana, for over 15 years as an instructional technology coordinator and professor, and during that time have made many connections around Northwest Indiana with schools, non-profits, and businesses. I have learned a lot about our region, and our state, through work with the Indiana Computer Educators (ICE), a non-profit organization whose goal is helping teachers invigorate their classrooms through the meaningful integration of technology. As an ICE member since 2003 and an ICE board member since 2008, I have seen how smart groups of people can come together to do amazing things for those in need. And at the Independent Cat Society, we have a lot of very smart and dedicated people like you, reading this letter right now who can join us in doing some really wonderful things for our cats. This year, we ask you to consider how you can contribute your talents, skills, and time for ICS. Maybe it is just a few hours a week or month as an adoptions counselor. Maybe it is as a medicator or cleaner, helping ensure that our cats are properly cared for and our facility adequately maintained. Maybe it is as a volunteer during our many fundraising activities throughout the year, such as the upcoming Sweetheart Contest, where each candidate will need help getting out the vote! Or perhaps it is just through generous gifts of funds or supplies to help our shelter continue its mission of providing the best quality care for its feline residents. Whatever the case, know that you are part of a tremendously caring team of like-minded people who love animals and want the best for our cats. Working together toward a common goal, we can achieve great things.

I hope that you will join us as we move forward into 2013 with a renewed spirit and enthusiasm for our work in helping each and every one of our cats find happy, healthy forever homes. Sincerely, Staci Trekles, ICS Board President

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The building in which the shelter was located also housed other busi-

In March 1977, the Independent Cat Society, Inc. was chartered in the state of Indiana. Why the name Independent Cat Society? It was chosen to show that the organization was not affiliated with any other humane society, animal shelter, cat organization, or with the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Membership grew rapidly and members meetings were held monthly. A search began for suitable property to rent or lease for a shelter. During that year and into 1978, all rescued cats were kept in and adopted out of foster homes. In June 1979, the first ICS shelter opened at Harrison and Maple Streets in Michigan City in leased space in the old streetcar barn not far from the center of the city. The shelter consisted of two rooms at street level and two rooms on the second floor connected by a staircase. It housed approximately 35 cats. The cats and kittens were kept in good-sized pens and were only caged for observation when they first arrived, or if ill. Four Michigan City veterinarians and a Porter veterinarian agreed to participate in the spay/neuter program and the general medical care of the cats. The shelter operated smoothly with all volunteer help and was kept open with intensive fundraising, growing membership dues and donations. ICS was given excellent media coverage in Northwest Indiana .

In late 1976, several cat lovers in Beverly Shores, Indiana, met to discuss the possibility of opening a no-kill cat shelter in their area. Two of the people had volunteered at a local shelter and were of the opinion that more attention was paid to the dogs and the adoption of dogs. There was also a serious problem of cats being abandoned in the beach community of Beverly Shores. Their intention was to form a society which would be dedicated to rescuing abandoned and abused cats, give these animals the best affordable medical care, including neutering, and house these animals in a cageless, no-kill shelter with pleasant, clean surroundings and caring personnel. The cats were to be adopted into good homes. If its adopter could no longer care for the adopted cat, it was to be returned to the shelter. Cats would not be euthanized unless recommended by a veterinarian or if the cat was hopelessly ill or injured.

A History of ICS, in celebration of our 35th Anniversary

35 and Alive!

nesses and on a Saturday afternoon in June 1979, a fire started in one section of the building. Smoldering stacks of newspapers being stored for a paper drive caused the fire. The papers had come into contact with an exposed electrical wire. Two small boys ran into the shelter to tell the volunteer on duty that the building was burning. Fire engines and equipment were soon on the scene and the rescue of the cats began. The family of an ICS member who lived only a few blocks from the shelter raced over and, with the help fire personnel, got all but two of the cats out of the smoke-filled building. Those two cats had hidden themselves and they died of smoke inhalation. Two other cats were burned and escaped, but were trapped a few days later.

All rescued cats were then housed in a garage. Word went out via newspapers, radio, and local TV that foster homes were needed for all of these cats and many of them were placed within a few days. ICS proceeded to operate out of a trailer placed in front of the closed building. The trailer served as an office and shop for several months while the search for new quarters went on. In late summer of 1979, the president of ICS purchased an old cabin-type roadside motel. It was located on the outskirts of Michigan City on four acres of land. ICS agreed to lease the motel, the zoning permit was obtained, and volunteers descended upon the buildings to repair and renovate, clean and paint no small task. Fundraising continued to support the cost of all of this work and for materials and supplies. Membership grew and donations poured in. The shelter fire had received national media coverage and contributions came from across the county. The motel buildings soon housed 100 cats. A small separate cabin on the grounds, which had been a caretakers cottage, was used for kittens. This isolated them from the adult cats in the other buildings. In late December 1980, ICS did not renew the lease on the motel due to disagreements over finances. Space was rented on the top floor of a three-story building in the northern section of Michigan City. This was the historic Pullman Building. The building was not in top condition, but the rooms on the top floor, which totaled 2,500 square feet, were large and airy with windows all around. The building had once served as the office building for

Fluffy

lives up to his name and is a cuddler to boot! His gorgeous grey and white coat is stunning! Bring him home and he will keep you warm all winter.

is a mature 10 but loves nothing more than being held in your arms like a baby. Hes a well-dressed tuxedo cat, but not too stuffy to snuggle!

Waldo

is a gorgeous long haired orange and white cat. He has a sweet and gentle disposition and is like a great big teddy bear who loves being petted. He would make someone a great companion!

Zipper

is sweet and feisty! She loves to talk and to get petted. Why not come talk to her?

Aloha

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There was an empty house, in poor condition, across the street from

When ICS moved into the Pullman Building, it was with the knowledge that we would not be there indefinitely, as it was known that the property would one day be sold for development. At that time it was rumored that condominiums were to be built on the land north of the building. In 1983 a building fund was started so that ICS could eventually purchase property and build a shelter. In the autumn of 1986, the building we were in as well as the adjoining factory building and all land north to Highway 12 was sold to developers. This was to become Lighthouse Place, a large outlet shopping mall. The new owners of the property decided that the Pullman Building would be too expensive to heat for the coming winter, so ICS was told in October that it must vacate the premises by midNovember. It was short notice, to say the least.

As before, the shelter depended upon membership dues, donations and fundraising events such as bike-a-thons, auctions, rummage sales, bake sales, raffles, ice cream socials, and participating in local craft fairs and cat shows. Two Open Houses were held each year at the shelter: in the spring to celebrate Adopt-a-Cat month and a Holiday Bazaar in late November. Because the shelter was so large, part-time cleaning help was hired, but a great deal of the work was still done by volunteers. A cat care committee worked diligently to maintain the health of the cats and kittens with the help of veterinarians who visited the shelter on a rotating basis, donating their time and expertise.

Again, a crew of hard-working volunteers spent many hours converting former office to cat quarters by cleaning and painting, building isolation pens, perches and climbing trees. The gift shop, located on the first floor of the building, sold books, cards, t- shirts, artwork, crafts, cat supplies and cat litter. ICS was at that time a distributor for a very fine cat litter, Nicky, which was used almost exclusively in the shelter. The litter was stored on the first floor and no better exercise could be had than carrying 50-pound bags of litter up three flights of stairs!

the factories, which were located to the north. The original complex had been built in the early 1900s. The walls were thick and the building was cool and breezy in the summer. A trucking firm occupied the first floor, along with a gospel church. The second floor housed a dance school and an artists studio. ICS cats enjoyed the wafting strains of both Swan Lake and church spirituals.

the Pullman Building. ICS, in a desperate move, obtained a zoning permit to occupy the house as a shelter, at least for the winter. But it was soon discovered that the cost of totally replacing the electrical system in the house, along with other repairs, would be prohibitive and the idea of occupying the house was abandoned. The heat in the Pullman Building was to be turned off at the end of October. The developers at a local business employed one of the Board of Directors and through her efforts ICS was allowed to stay in the building through our Holiday Open House, which was the last weekend in November. A call went out, via local media, for heaters and blankets. The shelter was inundated with warm blankets and space heaters donated by concerned animal lovers.

The Open House was held a week earlier than scheduled and 23 cats were adopted and 90 placed in foster homes. That same weekend another board member received a call from a local bank president who had always been very supportive of ICS. He offered a building in Pines Township, Porter County, and adjacent to Michigan City. The Bank had recently foreclosed on the property, which consisted of two pole barn buildings that were connected on 212 acres of wooded land. One of the buildings contained a two-story apartment with kitchen and bath. The other was very spacious and could be converted to a roomy shelter with remodeling of the interior. The board members made a quick visit to the property and voted a resounding yes to occupying it immediately. A week was spent cleaning the grounds of mounds of garbage and painting and cleaning the apartment. Volunteers did all of this. Necessary repairs were made to the heating system and the septic system. More work would have to be done on the septic field if zoning permitted us to stay. On the last weekend of November 1986, with the help of many ICS members and supporters along with the regular volunteers, all remaining 94 cats were moved out of the Pullman Building to the building in Pines, along with some furnishings. The balance of the belongings was stored. Plans were drawn up to remodel the large pole barn building. Because the property was situated in a rural area, no problem was anticipated with obtaining a zoning permit from the county as local residents kept horses, hounds, chickens, ducks, geese and peacocks. But, that was not to be. Two zoning hearings were held in Valparaiso in January and February 1987. Both of these meetings were extremely heated with ranting and raving by a few of the area residents. Apparently the majority of them strongly objected to an

is a shy beauty who would really love the chance to have a home of her own. Mocha has even inspired artist Karen Ebert to paint her picture.

Mocha

Corky

was a wild child who has matured into a playful, entertaining companion. Corky got a lot of notice as ICS Sweetheart 2011, but sadly nobody has claimed him for their very own sweetheart.

Frankie

is a dapper tuxedo gentleman who hasn't managed to be invited to be someone's special escort. If you bring Frankie home it will be prom every night.

Chase

is a handsome black cat who used to be shy but has become much more friendly and is just waiting for a nice quiet home.

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ICS continued to be operated primarily by volunteers with part-time employees hired for cleaning the shelter and feeding the cats. A volunteer Cat Care Committee was responsible for medicating and maintaining medical records. Thirteen Northwest Indiana veterinarians worked with ICS in the spay/neuter program and an associate veterinarian visited weekly. ICS had participated in the American Humane Association Early Spay/Neuter Program since the fall of 1991, so most of the cats were tattooed with an AHA assigned logo and an ICS identification number. Financial support for the operation of the shelter and the care of the cats continued to be derived from membership dues, donations, pledges, fundraising, bequests, and, in December 1996, a grant was received from the International Fund for Animal Welfare. With the continued support of members,

In 1989 the property on which the shelter now stands was found. It is three acres of wooded land on the Porter/La Porte County Line Road on Highway 6 just into Westville, Indiana. Zoning hearings were held, the zoning was approved, the property was purchased and construction began on a pole barn building. That building was completed in early 1991, again with volunteers doing all of the finishing touches on the interior. The cats were moved in during the spring of 1991. An old farmhouse had stood on the property, but was beyond renovation and was torn down. A two-car garage in good condition was remodeled and became the Paws Awhile Gift Shop. A drive was held, Building Fund II, for a much-needed Isolation Building which would house kittens, newly arrived cats and an office.

In April, cats were again placed in foster homes and a generous offer was made to ICS by Arbor View Animal Hospital in Valparaiso for the use of part of a building located behind the clinic. This location served as a temporary shelter as the search went on for more permanent quarters. The section ICS moved into had an outdoor run, which allowed some of the cats fresh air and sunlight. Renovations were made, again by volunteers, and the cats moved in. The Building Fund, which had been started in 1983, now had enough money in it for a down payment on land and/or a building.

animal shelter being located in their neighborhood. The hearings were given a great deal of coverage by the local newspapers. The vote of the zoning board was close: 3 to 2 against us. ICS would have to move by April 12, 1987. The only positive that came out of the meetings was praise by the zoning board for the professionalism of the ICS presentation.

contributors, and local veterinarians, and the dedication of volunteers, ICS continued to strive for the best care it could give the cats that came to the shelter and to adopt them out into responsible and caring homes.

Update

By Jean Gerometta, May 1997

Jean wrote the history of the Independent Cat Society from its beginnings 30 years ago when a few women got together to solve the problem of abandoned cats and kittens in their community. Jeans written history ended in December 1996. Since then ICS has worked selflessly to carry on the original purpose: to rescue abandoned and abused cats and give them the best possible medical care, including spaying and neutering, in a cageless, no-kill shelter and then adopt them into good homes.

by Beverly Overmyer, Corresponding Secretary, July 2007

Many new programs and services have been added in the past few years to keep this vision alive. The mission remains the same. Fundraising has always been a priority and a challenge for this nonprofit organization. One of the most successful, on-going programs is Sponsor-a-Cat. In the last five years this program has grown and become one of our most reliable sources of income. The program matches shelter cats with sponsors who pay $10 or more a month for the cats care and maintenance. The donor receives a picture and brief biography of their cat. The sponsor is encouraged to visit their cat at the shelter for playtime and grooming, which make the cats more people friendly and increase their chances of adoption. Many have adopted their sponsored cats. In 2002 the program had 134 sponsors and $13,822 in donations. The program has increased each year to a 2006 SAC donation totaling $24,438. The program today has nearly 200 sponsors. A binder with photos of all cats looking for sponsorship is available at the shelter as well as at all fundraising events and on our web site. Another new program is the Room Mother Program. Each of the 11 rooms at the shelter has a Room Mother who keeps track of the cats general health and visits at least once a month to clip nails, groom, and play with her charges. Room Mothers can give helpful information about the cats

Reesie

is a wonderful younger cat. She is a sweet young tabby who loves to play. Reesie would love a home where she could play and entertain you.

Marigold

is a darling little long-hair tabby and white mix. She is so delicate looking and really loves to snuggle in your arms. She would make a wonderful addition to any family.

is a cute-as-a-button black and white beauty. She is a little shy and some of the bigger cats tend to bully her, but she loves to snuggle in your arms. She would really love a family of her very own.

Astra

Betty

is a cute gray and white mix. She would love a home and family of her own where she can nap and play. Could she be the newest member of your family?

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The Independent Cat Society first started a Building Fund in 1983. In 1989, the land for the current shelter was bought and the build-

All ICS cats are spayed or neutered before they are offered for adoption. In recent years, it has become apparent that many cats in homes or strays being kept outside by cat lovers are never spayed or neutered, primarily because of the high cost of these surgeries. ICS has an Assisted Spay and Neuter Program that offers a voucher for $50 (spay/neuter and basic shots) or for $75 (the same, with additional tests and shots) to help defray the cost. A more aggressive approach to the stray problem is met by a recent addition to the ICS repertoire: the ICS TNR Squad. The Independent Cat Society is actively pursuing a unified program to address the stray, free-roaming, and feral cat populations of Porter and La Porte Counties. ICS recognizes that it is a human problem, and is working with caretakers, public officials, and veterinarians to provide low-cost surgeries for free-roaming cats. In 2005, an Endowment Fund was established to build a permanent fund and assure a predictable source of income. ICS became a member of the Unity Foundation of La Porte County, Inc., which provides endowment services for non-profits. ICS will receive the interest on this account to use at its discretion as long as it exists. Since 2004, Unity Foundation has awarded annual grants to ICS. John W. Anderson Foundation has also generously provided annual grant support to ICS.

Always a vital part of the ICS vision, the Foster Care Program seeks foster homes for cats and kittens with special needs that cannot be met appropriately at the shelter. Pregnant cats or nursing mothers with their kittens are housed in foster homes so that they may be cared for and socialized until they are ready for adoption. Other cats go to foster homes to recover from surgery, illness or injury. Many foster cats become permanent parts of their foster families. The Cat Care Committee oversees the care of all shelter cats and kittens, and is responsible for scheduling vet appointments, maintaining records, and assuring that all cats and kittens are current on inoculations and medications. Purrfect Partners, a program new in 2006, is a form of permanent foster care pairing our healthy senior cats with qualified seniors at no cost. ICS pays for all veterinary care and transportation to the vet. A Purrfect Partner counselor visits the home monthly for a health check and nail clipping. If the senior is no longer able to care for the cat, it can be returned to the shelter.

behavior to potential adopters.

ing completed in 1991. In 1996, Building Fund II was launched. This fund paid for a new roof for the main building as well as the old Gift Shop, now the isolation building for kittens and new arrivals. The Building Fund will be used in the future to add improvements and additions to the shelter including a separate laundry area and medicators station, and a reception/office area.

Since 2007, we continued to pursue our mission, even through difficult economic times. In addition to what ICS has always done, we greatly stepped up our efforts to try and keep people and their cats together as well as being more proactive with education in the community and especially our TNR program. In 2008, we were awarded a $10,000 grant from Petsmart to fix free-roaming cats in LaPorte County, and as of October 2012, thanks to this grant, generous donations, and the assistance of Dr. Maureen Fehrs, we have spayed or neutered a total over 2000 cats in the community. Other organizations have joined us with low cost spay/neuter programs of their own, and Dr. Michael Anderson opened his clinic in Michiana Shores. We continued to offer the voucher program for participating veterinarians and of course spayed or neutered every cat that came into the shelter. These developments gave us hope that we could begin to make a real difference in the number of unwanted and homeless cats in the region.

2013 Update

At ICS, we have always been partial to black cats, starting with our first logo, the Little Black Cat. In 2008, we had our first Black Cat Boogie, a fall fundraiser presided over by the giant Boogie Cat. Our black cat decided to get fit in 2011, and we added the Black Cat Strut 5K. In 2012, we were able to realize our dream of a Rainbow Bridge Garden, thanks to a partnership with Purdue University North Central. Funds generated from the sales of engraved bricks will help increase our building fund and bring us closer to our goal of an improved shelter for our cats.

is a mystery man. We picture him stretched by the fire, his person in a silk smoking jacket, brandy snifter in hand, and manuscript on the table. Azurbajans amber eyes, soulful and deep, narrow only when he is chasing the laser. He is a cat in his prime and has all the markings of the Bombay breed. He used to be very shy; not so much now. Pet, brush and admire him now; he will repay every kindness. is a gorgeous tabby who is shy but so very sweet. He tends to stay back and not come out when visitors come into the room. He would make a wonderful addition to a family but might need just a little extra attention to really bloom.

Azurbajan

is a cutie. A little white and grey tabby mix who is small and yet has so much love to give. She is just looking for the right person to give it to.

Gigi

Christopher

Cleveland

is a player, but the nice kind! He loves all toys but especially enjoys batting at running water. If you need some fun in your life, give Cleveland a try!

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Vouchers are available at the ICS shelter on Saturdays from 10 AM-4PM and Sundays from 1-4 PM. (Others hours may be available by appointment only). There are two different levels of Voucher.

Low Cost Spay/Neuter Options are Growing!

After purchasing a voucher, call one of the veterinary clinics listed below to schedule an appointment. ICS Spay/Neuter vouchers are only accepted at the following veterinary clinics: McAfee Animal Hospital: 219-462-5901 651 Eastport Centre Dr. Valparaiso, IN 46383 Basic - $65 Comprehensive - $90 Westchester Animal Clinic 219-926-1194 55E US Highway 20 Porter, IN 46304-1397 Basic level only - $73 Payment by cash or money order only (No credit/debit cards/no checks)

Basic Voucher: includes spay or neuter, first distemper vaccine, rabies vaccine, worming, ear mite treatment, and identification tattoo/microchip. Comprehensive Voucher: includes everything in the Basic level plus flea treatment, FELV and FIV testing, and the first Feline leukemia vaccine.

Dr. Anderson has a clinic on Saturdays in Beverly Shores. If the cat is flea-free, the cost is $50 for the surgery, Rabies vaccine, ear cleaning, pain shot, and a shot of penicillin. His scheduling number is 219-861-9006. Call and leave a message that you want to schedule your cat for a particular Saturday. Drop off time is 8:00 am to 8:45 am, and you pick up usually between 4:30 and 5:30, but they can tell you more when they call you back. Neuter Scooter www.neuterscooter.com Pet Neutering and Adoption (219) 987-PAWS (7297) www.naws.us.org

They also have special programs:

Low-income pet owners on government assistance (such as Food Stamps, Medicaid, Unemployment or Disability) Owners of pit bulls and pit bull mixes Residents of Gary, Indiana Feral cat caretakers (call 219-924-7140 for information on humane trap rental) Animal shelters, animal controls, and rescue groups

The Estelle Marcus Animal Clinic in Munster is now offering low-cost spays and neuters for the following groups:

1. Low-Income Senior Program: Seniors over the age of 65 and on government assistance (other than Social Security) can get their pet spayed, neutered and vaccinated for free! Call 219-924-7140 for an appointment. 2. Spay Your Momma Program: Low-income owners of a dog or cat with a litter can get the mom and her litter spayed, neutered, and vaccinated for rabies for free! Owners must be on government assistance or Social Security. Call Calumet SNAP at 877-8193300 for more information.

Colin and Cinder

are brothers who look just like small panthers, but they are loveable sweeties in spite of their exotic good lucks. They are 6 years old, and both are declawed. Take a walk on the wild side!

is personality with a whole load of cute. Grab a toy with a string and Gizzy is there! On his down time he is gentle and cuddly: Gizzy has it all going on.

Gizzy

Trapper

lives in Scruffy's because he's a shy guy, but would be very happy in a quiet home where his gentleness and sweetness would let him shine like the star that he is. Give him some treats and he will be your best friend.

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Laney

is a sweet tortie who is so often overlooked because she is laid back and quiet. She is a real beauty and would make someone a wonderful pet. Give her a little love and you would have a friend for life. get it!

Emery

is buff! He is also a true gentle boy. He never is pushy or snappy with the other Boppers; instead, Emery prefers to be a lover. Emery came to ICS as a kitten and probably because of his laid-back nature, he has been passed over time and time again. He is also a master at the laser and loves his Chicken Fancy Feast, when he can

Reiko

is the pretty boy of Boppers. Long haired and handsome, he is the original Puss-inBoots. His coat is silky and gorgeous and he will headbutt for more grooming or petting. He loves cuddling with other Boppers and is really quite playful when awake. His caramel eyes will melt you!

Benny

is a sleek black cat, 5 years old, and SUPER friendly. He will seek you out and beg to be brushed or petted. Benny enjoys socializing with other cats too!

is a 4-year-old, mellow fellow. A beautiful grey tabby, Wally gets along with other cats, but prefers to be above the fray. He's a lover boy. Nothing makes Wally happier than to sit on a warm lap and be petted or brushed.

Wally

Lulu

is a petite 6-mo old sweetie with a cute, distinctive face. She will cuddle, snuggle and crawl up on your shoulders.

is an adorable 5-year-old who has grown up at the shelter and not been adopted yet in spite of how doggone cute she is. Now is her time and are you her future?

Kiki

Amadeo

is a 4-year-old "teddy bear". He is very affectionate. This cuddly boy would love to sit on your lap and be petted.

Chase

is a handsome, 3-year-old, male gray tabby (not to be confused with Chase the handsome black cat). Chase is a classy, but loving lap cat.

MJ

is dignified and not pushy, but really enjoys being petted or getting scratched and he is quite playful. He's a superstar just like his namesake!

is known as Blood-Lettin' Tessa the Pirate Queen during the month of September, but in reality this beautiful little buccaneer is much more endearing than fearsome. Come meet her and see for yourself!

Tessa

is an elegant black cat with out-of-thisworld appeal! Because black cats wait longer to be adopted, Mars has spent his entire three years at the shelter. Why not bring him home and show him a new world?

Mars

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Memorials & Tributes...

Dan Goodman from TD & Gail Hartzell, Mary Persyn Mabel Vereb from Linda Romano Krisan, Heather, Shana & Emily Ann from Kathleen Heath KC & Willis from Gary Grygotis Chatul & Teddy from Phyllis Baker Abby from Carol Albrecht Carol Oke from Kenneth Lysaker Daniel Goodman from Naomi and Daniel Goodman Carol Okes cat from Judy Butts Pee Wee, the cat from Christy Schulte Eileen Miller from Marlene Monk Richie from Gary and Olivia Granados Blackie and Rainey from Gary Grygotis

In Memory of

from 7/18/12 - 12/31/12

Vivian Stemmler from Jane Susnis Lanz, Pepper, Napolean, and Fluffy from Aldona Priede Carol Ann Dunkelbarger from Doris and Russell Vanblaircom Mrs. Scott Miller from Scott Miller, Thomas White, Valerie Rubens Peter Alex Christoff from Linda Fry Yvette Noe from Holly McCain Donatella, his cat from Abraham Wondergem Scott and Tina Kleppes dog, Muffin from Nancy Kleppe, Eugene and Elaine Bruszewski Richard and Pat Humbert from Cheryl Mioduski Ron and Lena Wyller, her parents from Mary Williams Carol Decker from Marcine Todd

In Honor of

Ron & Lena Wyller from Randal & Beth Childress Their cats from Norman and Patricia Karner Roberta Jocius, her aunt from Laurel Lamb

Kira from Sivana Heller Sharon Brooks, for her birthday from Thomas and Karen Flaherty Ron and Lena Wyller from Randall and Beth Childress

Retractions from the previous issue (with our apologies): Mildred Tracht from Sandra Ilgen should have been listed under In Honor of, not In Memory of. If we have omitted anyone, please write or call us so we can include them in the next newsletter.

Heartfelt Thanks...
We thank Johnson Excavating, BP Fabric of America, and Allegius Credit Union for their generous donations. Thanks to AJs Tents for their generous support. Special thanks to all Corporate Donors for the 35th Anniversary Gala Silent Auction, including Ace Hardware Valparaiso, Arbor View Animal Hospital, Aurelios, Being Creative 4 You, Betty White, Bissell Foundation, Blue Chip Casino, Blue Moon Dance Studio, Brandt's Supply, Clint Henry of Oak Partners, Dr. Korczak, DDS, Dr. Lovera Wolf Miller, Dichroic Jewelry, Four Winds Casino, Great Hair Days, Green Mountain Coffee, Hot Spot, Jackson We thank the John W. Anderson Foundation for their generous grant. John W. Anderson has been a supporter for many years and we cant thank you enough. Galaxy, Kings Lane, Maple City Animal Hospital, Menards, Michelle Jusko Hair Salon, New Prairie Animal Hospital, Old Town Banquet Center, Paula Dean, Pfeiffer's Pies, Pyrrha Jewelry, Stepping Out in Style, Terry Abner Salon, The Spirit Within, and Vale Park Animal Hospital.

Many thanks to another long-time supporter, the Unity Foundation, for their wonderful grant to help keep people and their pets together.

Yippee! Its another:

Pussycat Pizza Party!

SINCE 1959

If you missed this wonderful event the last two years, you missed a great time. But dont worry; Dave and Andrea Libich are doing it again! Join us on Monday, March 11th from 6-9 at Aurelios in LaPorte at 2330 N. Highway 35. Tickets are $12 and will be sold at the door, and include all the pizza you can eat and all the pop you can drink. We will have a Silent Auction Dessert Bar featuring some of your favorites, plus you can pick up a few of our wonderful toys for your kitties at home. All proceeds are being donated to ICS, so you can relax and eat the best pizza around, all while helping us!
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Sponsor-A-Cat!
I took the paper from him and smoothed it out. "Does Your Cat Own You?" was a list that any "cat person" could recognize in their own household. Corky was sitting with a crumpled paper between his little gray paws and a sheepish look on his face.

from your Spokescat, Corky

If you want to help the shelter by sponsoring a cat, please fill out the slip below and send your first month's donation to the shelter. You will receive a picture of your sponsor cat and Corky, your new Spokescat the story of the kitty's life before the shelter became home.

Corky hopes this will bring a smile to your face and bring a new sponsor for one of our shelter cats while they are waiting for their "forever home." Does Your Cat Own You?

I think this was the kitten's attempt to find a perfect sponsor for every cat in the shelter-convincing you or a friend to take another cat into their hearts, even if there's no room in their home.

Does your cat sleep on your head? Do you like it? Do you put off making the bed until the cat gets up? Do you watch bad TV because the cat is asleep on the remote? Do you have more than 4 open cans of cat food in your fridge? Will you stand at the open door indefinitely in the freezing rain while your cat sniffs the door deciding to go out or come in? Do you give your cat presents and a stocking at Christmas? The Sponsor-A-Cat program helps donors pick one of our shelter cats or kittens to sponsor with a monthly donation of their choice. Benefits are obvious.

Do you choose your friends based on how well your cat likes them? Do you buy more than 50 pounds of litter a month? Do you admit to non-cat owners how many cats you really have? Do you sleep in the same position all night because it annoys your cat if you move?

No lugging big bags of litter. No waking up with a crick in your back or neck from sleeping in one uncomfortable position for hours. No standing in the cold or rain while your cat decides which side of the door she'd like to be on. No concern about what food might be the cat's favorite on any particular day.

You can come to the shelter to pick a cat to sponsor or let us know what kind of cat you'd like to sponsor--male or female, kitten or senior, long-haired, black, white, orange, tabby, calico or tortie--we have them all. Or we'll pick out a cat for you that would love to be your special cat. Many of our 35 adoptable cats featured in this newsletter are still in need of sponsors! Please help us find the perfect sponsor for every cat in the shelter.

I want to Sponsor-A-Cat from the Independent Cat Society

I have enclosed a check for: __________ $180 for one year of Sponsor-A-Cat __________ $10 or _________ for the first month of Sponsor-A-Cat. I pledge to send $10 each month to Sponsor-A-Cat. __________ $15 or _________ for the first month of Sponsor-A-Cat. I pledge to send $15 each month to Sponsor-A-Cat. The sponsor will receive a photo and biography of his or her Sponsor-A-Cat. Name of sponsor_____________________________________________ Address_________________________________________________ City______________________________________ State_______ ZIP__________ Telephone _______________________________________ Month of sponsors birthday____________________________________ email address______________________________________________ Clip and mail to: Independent Cat Society, Inc., PO Box 735, Westville, IN 46391

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Dont miss these events!

2013 Sweetheart Contest Open Your Hearts Fundraiser Dunes Cat Fanciers
February 16, 9-4 at the Ogden Dunes Fire Station March 9-10 - Woodland Park, Portage, Indiana March 11, 6-9 Aurelios in LaPorte, Indiana April 20 Expo Center, Valparaiso, Indiana April 28 Sunset Hill County Park, Valparaiso, Indiana

Independent Cat Society PO Box 735 Westville, IN 46391

Non-Profit Organization US Postage Valparaiso, IN Permit No. 134

PAID

January-February Vote via PayPal at www.catsociety.org, by mail, or in person at the shelter

Pussycat Pizza Party! Earth Day Festival Black Cat Strut

If youd like to receive the Mewsletter via email, let us know at mewsletter@hotmail.com.

Become a Member!
Annual Dues: ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ $1000 Corporation $500 Life $100 Gold Star $50 Family $25 Individual $10 Student $10 Senior

Can you help the Independent Cat Society cats?

______ I am donating $______ to the building fund. ______ I will help groom cats at the shelter. ______ I will help at fundraising events. ______ I will be a foster parent. ______ I will help give cats their medications. ______ I will donate my cat-themed artwork or crafts for fundraising events. ______ I will help cats get good homes by becoming an adoption counselor. ______ I am donating $______ for the care of the cats and kittens.

Donate or Volunteer!

______ I am donating $______ to the TNR/Assisted Spay & Neuter Fund.

______ I will bake for fundraising events.

______ I will make adoption follow-up telephone calls.

______ I will distribute flyers for fundraisers.

______ I will help take care of the grounds and maintain the shelter.

Name______________________________________ Address_____________________ City______________ State_______ ZIP__________ ____This is a new address. ____ Do not send a thank you note. Phone____________________ email__________________________________ Clip and send to: Independent Cat Society, Inc., PO Box 735, Westville, IN 46391