What a night to remember! Yappy Hour 2025 exceeded all expectations, bringing together our incredible community of supporters for an unforgettable evening at the beautiful ‘Beaulieu’ estate. We are deeply grateful to Mrs. Dede Wilsey for graciously opening her home to us and creating such a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
With nearly 300 attendees, the event was filled with energy, laughter, and, of course, furry friends in search of loving homes. The evening raised $640,000, making it the most successful fundraiser in Potter League’s 96-year history. A key moment of the evening was the “Paw Raise,” which raised a significant portion of the funds for the animals. This success wouldn’t have been possible without the guidance of Anne Hamilton, whose long-time dedication and heartfelt passion for the animals played an essential role in making this moment so impactful. We are incredibly grateful for her continued commitment to our mission. These funds will provide essential medical care, surgeries, and rehabilitation for the animals in our shelter. As veterinary care and treatment costs continue to rise, these funds are more critical than ever in ensuring we can continue offering the care that animals need before they can find their new homes.
We also extend our deepest thanks to our honorary chairs, Dede Wilsey & John Peixinho, whose ongoing generosity and commitment to our cause inspire much of the success we see. We are truly grateful for their involvement and unwavering support of the Potter League. A heartfelt thank you to our dedicated committee co-chairs—Dory Benson, Andrea Breyer, Katie Gewirz, and Amy Harden—whose tireless work, passion, and vision made this event truly special. Their efforts ensured everything came together seamlessly, and we are so grateful for their dedication.
We are also incredibly grateful to our “2025 Party Animals,” volunteers, and staff for their unwavering commitment. A special thank you goes to our in-kind sponsors: Pranzi Tents & Events, Glorious Affairs Boutique Catering and Event Design, Wild Season Florals, Photography by Jessica Pohl, Gold’s Wine and Spirits, Two Bullyz Brand Development Beverage Consulting, VELO Vodka, Perfection Valet Parking, and Dr. Robert Bekkers for his musical performance.
Thank you once again to everyone who attended and supported this incredible evening. Your generosity ensures that we can continue our mission and provide the love and care that these animals deserve.
P.S. Here’s a sneak peek of the event photos—stay tuned for even more coming soon!
Honoring the Generosity and Dedication of
Dede Wilsey & John Peixinho
Committee Co-Chairs
Dory Benson, Andrea Breyer, Katie Gewirz, & Amy Harden
Best in Show
Sarah Schochet Henken & Darrah O’Connor
Eaddo & Peter Kiernan
Kim & Jerry Kirby
Edith McBean
Christine & Steve Schwarzman
Hope van Beuren
Dede Wilsey
Community Guardian
The Lola Ruth Giving Fund Devils River Trust |
John Peixinho Cathy & Jeffrey Siegal |
Helene & Archie van Beuren Andrea van Beuren & Roger Kass |
Compassionate Companions
Holly Bannister & Douglas Newhouse Dory & Dan Benson Barbara & Duncan Chapman Leslie R. Grosvenor Anne & Matt Hamilton |
Ala & Ralph Isham Charlotte & Paul Marshall Stephanie McLennan Ann & Sam Mencoff Sue & George Petrovas |
Topsy Taylor Joan Tobin Virginia Treherne-Thomas Barbara van Beuren & Stephen Glascock Sharon & Bill Wood Prince |
Animal Advocates
Amy & Tim Berkowitz Meg & Doug Braff Andrea & Bill Breyer |
Madeline & Dennis Durkin Katie & Steven Gewirz Allison & Don Gulbrandsen |
Amy & Paul Harden Ana Paula & Mark Watson Karl F. and Teryn B. Weintz Foundation |
Cat’s Meow
Robert Devine & Patrick Dolat Connie & Peter Geisler Sr. Sherri & Jack Grace Eleanor & Gray Hamilton |
Laura & Miles Hamilton Samantha & Crawford Hamilton |
Suzett & Sam Hamilton Ginny & Guy Millner Sally & Ken Ohrstrom Emily & Clay Rives |
Wag Worthy Champion
Margaret Arpin Dan Drake & Elliot Stultz Sherry & Kenneth Fardie Cleo & Michael Gewirz Leslie Godridge Wendy & Ed Harvey |
Elizabeth & Robert Hay P. Christopher Kelly Sheila & Thomas Lang Susan Behan & Richard Loebs Jr. Marni & Oliver Parker |
Diana Prince Katie & Bob Qutub Betsy & Frank Ray Linda Sawyer & John Harris Suzette Schochet Charlotte Wagner |
Kitten Kaboodle
Jan Gordon
Judy & Howie Naugle
Interested in Supporting the Event?
To explore leadership giving opportunities and help make Yappy Hour a truly meaningful evening, please contact Heather Ruhsam, Chief Philanthropy Officer, at hruhsam@potterleague.org or (401) 846-0592 ext. 116.
We look forward to sharing this memorable evening with you, all in the name of our furry friends!