Quota Club fashion show to benefit 'Canine Helpers'

BATH - Quota International of Bath will host a luncheon and fashion show fundraiser May 5 in memory of the late Josephine Warren, a resident of Bath, 50-year charter member of Quota International and founder of the Bath chapter in 1996.

The event will be held at the Knights of Columbus on West Washington Boulevard at 12:30 p.m. Proceeds raised from this event will be used to support Jo Warren's passion, Canine Helpers For the Handicapped, Inc., a 22-year non-profit organization dedicated to training dogs to assist people with hearing disabilities to lead more independent and secure lives.

The donation to Canine Helpers will be designated to help support a handicapped resident in Steuben County.

Hearing dogs alert hearing impaired persons to sounds in the environment. Service dogs assist the physically handicapped individual with common tasks that are difficult or impossible to accomplish unaided. Seizure alert dogs warn their person of oncoming seizures and provide comfort and assistance. Mobility (Multi-Service) Dogs perform a variety of tasks for the individuals with multiple handicaps or special needs. Therapy Dogs provide close companionship for individuals or residents of institutions. The cost to train each dog varies according to the use of the dog and ranges between $10,000 and $15,000.

The training process is complicated, starting with temperament testing, obedience training, and can take anywhere from six months to two years depending upon the tasks required. There are a variety of dogs at the training center in various stages of training preparing to be matched to deserving applicants. The applicants are requested to help secure sponsorships from family, friends, service groups and other organizations to help defray the cost of training.

Lunch will be catered by Jane Smith of "Around The Corner Catering" with fashions provided by Fashion Bug of Bath, The Dress Barn, and K-Mart of Bath. Recorded music of Andrew Lloyd Webber will be provided by Donna and Betty Gerych of Bath. Numerous Door Prizes, Raffles, Silent Auction and display tables will be available.

Fashion commentary will be provided by Sarah Shirley, a former resident of Bath and Hammondsport, now a fashion consultant and stylist in New York City.

For reservations, tickets or information call Helen Binkowski, 776-2987; Angie Brush, 776-6766 or Shirley Smith, 776-5165.