The annual event launched with a charity bartending event Jan. 13.
By
Amanda Sebastiano
| 7:50 p.m. January 13, 2016
East County
Neighbors
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Cher Grossman held up a tan mixed-breed puppy to show Amy Smith.
"Look at this one," Grossman said, smiling and letting the puppy bite at her chin. "Isn't she precious?"
A normally unusual sight at a bar, puppies from Nate's Honor Animal Rescue enjoyed a night out Jan. 13 at Polo Grill and Bar, during the kick off party for the annual Ponies for Pups, Gateway Pup Cup event, which will be held Feb. 27 at the Sarasota Polo Club.
The event and the kickoff party, which was a charity bartending event, benefit Honor Animal Rescue.
Event attendees took turns holding puppies, while they sipped on cocktails and talked with friends. They also entered into a raffle, which included prizes such as a half-day cruise in Sarasota on a yacht.
Jessica Ortiz and Jaymie Klauber, chairwomen of the Ponies for Pups event, snuggle up with a new friend.
Carol Beatty might have to add another family member to her home after meeting one of Nate's Honor Animal Rescue's newest arrivals.
Julia DeCastro and Renee Brady enjoy laughs and drinks.
Cher Grossman volunteers at Nate's Honor Animal Rescue.
Mary Dougherty-Slapp and Marty Black enjoy time with friends.
Ruth and Michael Harshman wait for their drinks at the bar.
Carol Fraser and Kim Peens make new friends and chat with old ones.
Lakewood Ranch High students Ally Boudreau and Noelle Kourakos collect entries for the raffle. The grand prize is a cruise.
"Look at this little guy," animal-lover Amy Smith said.
Tammy Wyman and Susie Chinn make two new friends — Tav Ortiz and a mixed-breed puppy.
Cathy Carrubba toasts to a fun night.
Lindsay Scheuer applies for a chance to win a cruise.
Rob and Carla Patrick find a cozy place to chat and relax.
Rachel and Evan Benderson enjoy a night out with their furry friend, Ellie.
(From back left) Travis Scheuer, Tim Miller, Jamie Mirikitani, Kevin Harvey and Jim Pollet are the bartenders for the evening.
Michelle Senglaub and Veronica Brady show off their black dresses.
