Laura Phillips, left, visiting the SPCA Thrift Store with her dogs, talks to Barbara Gregory during the Democats & Repuplicans Holiday Party on Nov. 4 in Aiken.
Hundreds of shoppers turned out for the SPCA Thrift Store's Democats & Repuplicans holiday shopping party, which was held in Aiken on Nov. 4, one day before the general election.
Among them were Jim Rhodes, who is the president and managing director of Equine Rescue of Aiken (also known as Aiken Equine Rescue), and Barbara Morgan, a former solicitor for South Carolina's Second Judicial District.
"Why am I here? To support the animals, No. 1," Rhodes said. "No. 2, there are some great deals."
His purchases included two metal horse figurines, a toy tractor and a toy Coca-Cola truck.
"I got bunches of stuff," he said. "It was a very successful night."
Aiken Area Business Prime Steakhouse's founder has stepped away from ownership of popular Aiken restaurant By Dede Biles [email protected]
Morgan, who was waiting in a long line to check out when interviewed, was holding Christmas ornaments, a scarf and a jacket.
"The SPCA Thrift Store has one of the best causes, and it has some of the best people who come together and do incredible things," she said. "And in a town like ours, it's wonderful to regift and reuse."
The SPCA Albrecht Center for Animal Welfare operates the thrift store, which raises money for the care of abused, neglected and abandoned dogs, cats and other creatures.
Finding homes for the animals is a priority for the nonprofit.
The Democats & Repuplicans party had plenty of Christmas decorations to tempt bargain hunters. Framed art, jewelry, furniture, books, clothing and much more also were available to purchase.
"We have a little bit of everything," said the store's retail manager, Thom Tate, who wore a Benjamin Franklin costume.
Aiken Area Business Mavis Tires & Brakes service center under construction on Aiken's west side By Dede Biles [email protected]
He reported that nearly 300 tickets were sold in advance for $10 apiece.
Their buyers received a 10% discount on the items they bought during the party.
The cost was $20 at the door.
"We've had a great turnout," Tate said.
Attendees had the opportunity to participate in a mock election to choose their favorite kind of animal for $1 per vote.
"Ladies and gentlemen, the dogs won," Tate announced following a drawing for a raffle that offered gift baskets as prizes.
More than 400 votes were cast, according to Jennifer Richard, a member of the SPCA Albrecht Center's board of directors.
Dogs received 257 votes, and there were 141 for cats.
In addition there were votes for horses, unicorns and mutt.
"We're just trying to make light of what is going on in the United States and have fun," Tate said. "We're not trying to be political by any means."
Beverages and food also were served during the party, which started at 6 p.m.
News The Mane Event celebrates USC Aiken's equestrians, raises funds By Dede Biles [email protected]
The SPCA Thrift Store is in the Mitchell Shopping Center on Whiskey Road.
The SPCA Albrecht Center is at 199 Willow Run Road.
Unleashed, a benefit for the SPCA Albrecht Center, is scheduled for Nov. 20 at the Amentum Center for the Performing Arts at 126 Newberry St. S.W.
Tickets for the performance by the Augusta-based improv comedy group, Schrodinger's Cat, can be purchased at letlovelive.org.
There will be a reception at 6 p.m., and the show will begin at 7 p.m.