And the winner is...

Madison
For the friends of the Independent Cat Society, a no-kill cat shelter Spring 2013 #137

t was a close call, as all of the teams worked very hard to earn the most for their candidate, including spending a day in February at the Open Your Hearts fundraiser selling wonderful treats, crafts, and more to support their kitty. But Madison emerged the victor by a small margin at the end of February congratulations to Madison and her team! The Independent Cat Society wishes to thank all of our fabulous team leaders, volunteers, and donors for their efforts in getting out the vote and supporting our cats. We had a fabulous turnout this year, and we owe it all to YOU! The best part of this story, of course, is the ending: Madison received the best prize a kitty could ask for, and was adopted to a wonderful forever home at the beginning of March.

Meet the upcoming

Madison, our 2013 Sweetheart

ICS Kitten Class of

D
id you ever wonder what it would be like to be a Fairy Godmother? Or maybe have the power to grant favors and make wishes come true? Well, now you can be a Kitten Godparent. Kitten Godparents won't have magic powers or the ability to make problems disappear, but they do have some amazing abilities! Note that this program is not quite the same as Sponsor-A-Cat, our ongoing effort to sponsor all of our shelter residents (see the end of this newsletter for more on this terrific program). Kitten Godparents is a special campaign just for our new Kitten Season babies.

2013!

You can become a Kitten Godparent for only a $25 donation, which means that you have the power to defray the costs of caring for this year's babies. And to us, that's definitely a superpower! That donation entitles the Godparent to choose the kitten's name, and you will get a personal thank you card with their picture. If you share your e-mail we will give you updates on your Godkitten and more pictures if possible. We are hoping the Kitten Godparents might want to show off pictures of their special little one to everyone, and just maybe find out that they have the incredible power to help find them a home of their own!

Interested in wielding some power? Here's how:

As the kittens come in, pictures of them will be posted at the shelter, on our website, and on Facebook. You choose the baby you would like for your Godkitten, fill out a Kitten Godparent form, and make your donation. If you want to name them at that time you may, or if you'd like to give the matter more consideration, that's OK too. So, dust off your magic wand or polish your pinky ring, because it won't be long till kitten season!

Want to get even more involved with the Kitten Class of 2013?
Become a Foster Parent! Foster Parents provide the loving care that kittens need to develop into healthy and socialized adults. They make a huge difference! For more information, call, e-mail, or contact us on our Facebook page.

Adoptable Cats, Upcoming Events, and more inside!

Calendar of Events
Published for the friends of the Independent Cat Society, Inc. PO Box 735, Westville, IN 46391 (219) 785-4936 Web: www.catsociety.org Email: mewsletter@hotmail.com Also on Facebook: www.facebook.com/indcatsociety 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. Our 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. About our Adoption Fees Includes: Spay/neuter, vet exam, feline leukemia and FIV test; ageappropriate vaccinations; parasite treatment; tattoo ID/microchip; 30 Day No-Cost Pet Insurance; and free post-adoption participating vet visit. Please check our website or shelter for monthly adoption specials! Board of Directors: President: Anastasia Trekles Vice-President: Tina Sleppy Recording Secretary: Judy Dean Corresponding Secretary: Mary Rooney Treasurer: Natalie Cebulski Board Members: Gail Frieden Joan Hildebrand Paulette Gonzalez Judy Lindmark

Earth Day Festival

April 20
At the Expo Center, Valparaiso, Indiana ______________________

April

Be Kind to Animals Festival

April 27
At the Expo Center, Valparaiso, Indiana ______________________

Black Cat Strut

April 28, 9am
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

Wake Up the Garden

May 10, 9am - 4pm
Join ICS and the Porter County Master Gardners to wake up the Rainbow Bridge Garden and learn all about waking up your own garden for spring! ______________________

May

Aunt Kittys Trash and Treasure Sale

May 18, 10am - 3pm May 19, 10am - 3pm
Join us for food, fun, and bargains galore at our shelter! All proceeds go to support the cats and kittens of the Independent Cat Society Drop off your items on Friday, May 17 from 12pm - 3pm (No clothing or large furniture items please)

National Adopt a Shelter Cat Month

Visit http://www.aspca.org/adoption/adopt-a-shelter-cat-month/ and http://www.americanhumane.org/animals/programs/specialinitiatives/adopt-a-cat-month/ for more information and be sure to visit us for a whole month of shelter cat celebrations!

June

Presidents Message

If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant; if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome. Anne Bradstreet elcome to spring in Northwest Indiana! In this issue, we celebrate spring by celebrating health and wellness for ourselves as well as our animals. On April 28, we will work together with our many friends from a variety of rescue groups in Northwest Indiana to put on the annual Black Cat Strut, a terrific event for all ages at Sunset Hill County Park in Valparaiso. This year, in addition to the 5K walk/run, there will also be a 1-mile dog walk, so you can bring your favorite canine companion out to join in the fun! Come out and enjoy the day, meet new people, and support animal welfare with us we look forward to seeing you there! You can register online at http://thtiming.com, or visit our shelter, Smoochie Pooch Pet Salon and Boutique in Valparaiso, or many other participating locations all over Northwest Indiana to pick up a paper flyer. Just give us a call or check our Facebook page for assistance and details. Of course, shaking off the blanket of winter doesnt have to end at participating in a 5K walk or run. Spring is a time where everything becomes new again, when the sun keeps us a little warmer, and when the world begins to turn green. During the spring season, we will be hard at work waking up the Rainbow Bridge Garden on our shelter grounds, with the expert assistance of the Porter County Master Gardners. On May 10, Master Gardners will be on site to tend the garden and bring in new flowers and plants that will adorn the garden throughout the spring and summer, and we welcome you to come out and join them in their efforts and learn from their experience and knowledge. We also hope you will join us and enjoy the garden during our May 18 and 19 semi-annual Yard Sale, where all kinds of new treasures will be waiting for you to find! Finally, spring often brings us new things in the form of joyous new bundles of kitty fur! We often call this time of year kitten season, as many kittens tend to be born and join our shelter through foster networks. The animal world, after all, is just as excited about springtime as we are! This season, we encourage you to consider becoming a foster mom or dad for new cat families this season, and we also look forward to seeing you at the shelter to welcome some of these beautiful new arrivals into your own home. Dont forget that you can always look up our current list of foster and shelter animals at our website, http://catsociety.org, and dont hesitate to ask an Adoptions Counselor during our weekend hours about any kitten or cat you may be interested in. Whether youre looking for a companion for a current pet or simply a new addition to your family, we promise to adopt to you only the happiest, healthiest, and more well-socialized cats, no matter what age they are. Contact us through Facebook at http://facebook.com/indcatsociety or through email at shelter@catsociety.org with questions about adoptions or fostering at any time. We would love to hear from you, and we hope you enjoy the beauty and excitement that this spring is sure to bring! Sincerely, Staci Trekles, ICS Board President

Please note: We do not use litter pan liners, newspapers, or pine cleaners like Pine Sol. Thank you!
Office Supplies Stamps Various Colored 2-pocket folders with Business Card Slots Letter-Size Manila File Folders Cleaning Supplies Bleach Laundry Soap (prefer unscented) Dryer Sheets Liquid Hand Soap Dish Soap Paper Plates Paper Towels 30-gallon Trash Bags Tall Kitchen Garbage Bags Simple Green Cleaner Shaklee Basic G Concentrate Medical Supplies Microwaveable Heating Discs Science Diet AD, ID Wellness Grain-Free Food Building and Grounds 20 x 25 x 5 Aire Bear Furnace filters Water Softener Pellets 16 x 20 x 1 Fiberglass Furnace Filters Replacement Filters for Hunter Air Purifier Model #30930 Side Door and Help with Install Other Dry Cat Food, kitten and adult, Prefer Diamond Naturals but use other brands for donations to those in need Ground flavors of Fancy Feast and grain-free foods Tall Cat Trees Scoopable and Clay Litters Gift Cards to Lowes, Menards, Home Depot, etc. Safeguard SG-36D Humane Traps Turbo-Tracks Replacement Scratchers Extra Large Litter Scoops Small Blankets, Rugs, Towels Special Services Carpenters, Plumbers

The cats thank you! Ask us for a receipt for tax-deductible donations.
3

Parsleys Story
Through an adopted cats eyes...
A couple days later, the same woman came back. I was glad to see, hear, and sense her smell. Her voice had the same comfort; her hand was still stretched out. Before I knew it, I was in a cat carrier. The voice and the hand were there outside the carrier, and when the carrier door opened again, I was in a whole new place. All I knew to do was hide, but the voice and hand kept coming to me again and again. I came out of my hiding place and found food and water, and a bed. Some time went by and now everyday I have my Angel, my own person, the one with the voice and the hand, who feeds, cares for, and loves me. I care for her right back. I purr, crawl; I climb into her lap, and sleep at her feet. She means the world to me. She tells me we are family. The only things I worry about these days are the guys I left behind. Any of the cats at ICS would love real homes, but unlike the kittens, they dont quite know how to ask. Emery and Azurbajan are such great spirits, but, like me, they hesitate, not wanting to risk; remembering other moments of reaching out that were just another heart tug. I am happier than I could have ever dreamed, but I am asking all of you to help my friends, the ones I left behind at ICS. The best thing I could wish for is that they could find their own angels. If we each could find room for even one of them in a home with their own person: how the world would change for them. That would be the best ever! ICS will continue helping the helpless because the efforts are so desperately ICS will continue helping the helpless because the efforts are so and urgently needed. Helping makes everyone more human; helping the helpless makes the world more humane.

i. I am Parsley. I came to the Independent Cat Society shelter as a wee kitten a little more than 15 years ago. I am a quiet cat and pretty much stayed to myself, except for cuddling with a few of my buddies, especially on our cold Indiana winter days.

For the most part, my life was pretty settled, except when we would get a new cat or when people would come to visit the shelter. Things would get harder for me, especially in the last couple years. When I was younger, people would single me out and say, Ill consider her. But, for whatever reason, they just never came back to me. I got older, day-by-day, just like all of us, until one day, visitors began saying about me things like, I dont want one that old. Or, She is just too skittish. Or, Whats wrong with that one? So, I pretty much resigned myself to hanging with my cat friends Cora, Al, Cassandra, Snooki, Cora, Carolina, Emery, and Azurbajan. These last couple years, Al, Snooki, Cora, and Cassandra passed over the Rainbow Bridge, so I thought my days left at the shelter would be spent to help the new guys and to just hang out. Then, one day a year ago this spring, a woman came into our shelter room and stayed longer than anyone else. She held out her hand to me, and I tried not to look too interested, but honestly she smelled better than anyone I had ever sniffed. I felt an old urge to rub my head on her arm. I did that and she didnt leave; she just kept talking to me. I felt my old heart flip a little, but she left, still saying kind words. I was disappointed but I was okay, as I have always been; I jumped over and cuddled with Cora, Carolina, Emery, and Azurbajan.

Health and Wellness for You and Your Pets

ven though Parley is over 15 years old, she has a new outlook and lease on life thanks to her new adopter. And in turn, she keeps her person pretty active as well! How can you help your cat (and your other pets as well!) keep fit, healthy, and active? Veterinarians and animal experts recommend a number of things that pet owners can do to ensure that their best friends stay happy and well for many long years. If you are not sure how to get started with exercise and your pet, be sure to consult your vet for the best and more personalized advice. 4 First of all, dont let your pets just chill out all day, like ICS alumni Mr. Lemmywinks here doing his best version of savasana (relaxation pose) on his moms yoga mat. Instead, consider incorporating some regular playtime into yours and your pets day. Get a wand, Cat Dancer, or other toy that you can dangle for your cat and get him up and moving around. Many cats love laser pointers of any kind, whether it comes from a toy made for them or from the end of your favorite pen or laser level tool. Its a good idea to follow up laser toy play with a real toy so that kitty has something real to play with. Cats can also amuse themselves throughout the day if they have a cat tree to climb on, and no exercise is better than chasing another furry friend around the house! For dogs, play fetch or go for a short, brisk walk at least once a day. Some people also like to take their dogs with them on runs and hikes, although be sure to not overtire your pup and give him or her plenty of time to rest along the way. Dogs are not built for sustained running the way people are.

Healthy Recipes for You and Your Cat

ant to bring some life into your diet and be healthier to boot? Consider these recipes, which are highly customizable to suit your own tastes and needs. The key is to use fresh, whole ingredients and avoid things like processed foods and refined flours and sugars. For example, squeeze a lemon rather than buying packaged lemon juice, which can be full of preservatives. Also, for cats, remember that their stomachs are sensitive and can be very sensitive to the things that people find to be pretty normal fare. Small amounts of meat, eggs, or fish are exciting to your cat and a good, healthy alternative to packaged treats found at the pet food store, but remember that moderation is very important! Catnip and pet grass can also be terrific treats, and low-calorie as well. Just make sure that any plant you provide kitty is safe. Check http://pets.webmd.com/cats/guide/cat-treats-and-snacks-whats-healthy for a great resource on cats and healthy treats.

Yes, hes one of ours: Pluto!

ive issues. ther digest o r o s ch a stom For ith sensitive s for kitties w no additional spice t a e gr is is h it th f w o t lly n a ou on A small am rice, cooked conventi you can get it) , if wn ic ro n b a rg p (o cu st ken brea ic ch ss le e individual 1 bon e oil n your cats ons of oliv o o g sp in y a d n le te e rs p a -2 1 or p od de ried catnip ven baby fo pinch of d , liver, or e sh fi r fo igestion. n the chicke ith kittys d w te 1 egg g u n it . ri st e b rf thoroughly ing inte ish to su want anyth ley, and egg and mix You may w h your vet. it t d w n n o lt a d t su e e n e W o s. C okie sh spices. ip/pars sensitivitie additional dd oil, catn the mixture onto a co up into pieces, A ny . a ce d ri d a e t th no e cut ix with n spread st and do can then b ces and m ver, you ca icken brea o much. It to to small pie re just as it is. Howe t in o n n Boil the ch t u ke b ic a bit, oked ch is mixtu to harden Chop the co nt to eat some of th allowing it s, e a e w gr t e h -d ig Kitty m tes at 325 bite-sized treats. 2-15 minu as bake for 1 the fridge in d d store cooled, an ken an cats: Chic d Rice Tre ats

SHARE any cat food and treat recipes you might have with us and well print them for all to enjoy in the next issue of the Mewsletter. Post them to our Facebook page or send an email to shelter@catsociety.org.

For People: Health y Lemon-Poppy seed Bread This recipe is writte n for a bread mach ine, although you ca bake conventionally n easily mix the do in a 400-degree ov ugh, allow it to rise, en for about 10 mi and 1 cup warm water nutes, then reduce heat to 350 for 45 -50 minutes. 1 egg 1 tablespoon olive , grapeseed, or coco nut oil Juice from about to 1 whole lemon (depending on how 1 tablespoon grated much lemon taste lemon peel you want) 3 cups whole whea t flour (substitute 1 cup of rolled oats 3 tablespoons vital if you wish) wheat gluten (option al but helps with co 2 tablespoons hone nsistency and textur y or agave nectar e if you like a softe 1 tablespoon soy mi r bread) lk powder (for prote in this is optiona 1 teaspoon salt (ca l) n be reduced to teaspoon) 2 tablespoons (or more if you wish) po ppyseeds or chia se 1 teaspoon activ eds e dr y yeast In the bread mach ine, run on the Ba sic/White Bread se on the Light crust tting (yes, even tho setting. Check perio ugh you put wheat dically to be sure yo a very sweet bread, flour in there!), u dont need more but it is excellent wi liquid. Note that thi th peanut butter or s will not be jam, and toasts we ll.

These kitties have been waiting a long time for their forever homes. Perhaps you are the one for them?
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.

Make a New Friend!

Azurbajan
is a mystery man. His 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.

Zipper
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!

Mocha
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.

Emery
is buff! He is also a true gentle boy. 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 get it!

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!

Mars
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?

Gizzy
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.

Kiki
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?

Toddles
is our official Spay and Neuter spokescat, because there were so many kittens the year he was born! Unfortunately, nine years later, he is still waiting for his forever home. Can you be the person to change sweet Toddles luck?

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!

Temple
is a handsome older gentleman who lives in our Kitty Korner room. He is a sweet, loving boy and would make anyone a wonderful forever friend.

Numbers Update:

Since 2007, weve altered over 2350 cats! NOTE to Michigan City residents: we have a Memorandum of Understanding in place with the City of Michigan City to practice TNR as the preferred method of feral cat management within the city limits. So as caretakers of outdoor colonies you can feel confident that what you are doing by feeding and caring for your FIXED feline friends is perfectly acceptable and actually part of the solution. We count on you as caretakers to defend your colonies, as long as they are spayed and neutered and eartipped. If they are not yet fixed, please contact us at 219-785-4936 and leave a message for Connie or Eileen, or email us at icstnr@comcast.net and we can help get them altered.

ts spring, and we know what that means! KITTENS and feline families playing house underneath our porches and sheds! When you first see those cute little kitten eyes peeping up at your from beneath the floorboards, your first reaction is to DO something, thinking they are abandoned. We get that... but it is actually the case that the first thing you should do is to OBSERVE to see if mom is anywhere in the vicinity.

We need to know where the mom cat is at, and if you move the little ones or make too much fuss in their area, it will spook mom and she may move them to a new location out of our reach. So the first thing to do is to watch: mom is almost always somewhere close, watching. The ultimate goal would be to get her fixed as soon as possible after weaning the little ones. If after observing you confirm that mom is not coming back, then you can act. Call us if you find yourself fostering little ones that need bottle-feeding or extrarodinary care. We have a host of knowleable volunteers who can give info and support.

Advertise in the Mewsletter!

Your ad will get great exposure for your enterprise! Your patronage helps us offset the costs of printing, allowing more funding for our cats! 1/2 page ($100) = 7.5 x 4.7 or 3.6 x 9.7 1/8 page ($50) = 3.6 x 2.25 or 7.5 x 2.25 1/4 page ($75) = 3.6 x 4.7 full page ($200) = 7.5 x 9.7
7

Black Cat Strut

Spotlight on Upcoming Events

Purrfectly Pampered Day
Make plans to join us for a brand new fundraiser, Purrfectly Pampered Day at Red Mill Park in LaPorte on August 3, 2013. Review products and services from a variety of wonderful vendors interested in your health, wellness, comfort, and beauty, and enjoy a day of pampering yourself and your loved ones! Be sure to keep an eye out for more information on this exciting upcoming event!

The 3rd Annual Black Cat Strut will be held on April 28 at Sunset Hill County Park in Valparaiso, located at the corner of Meridian Rd. and US-6. Please join us to benefit the Independent Cat Society, and stay to help and learn more about a large number of other animal welfare organizations in Northwest Indiana. We are banding together to bring you a day of fun, including not just the race, but also food, crafts, fun for the kids, raffles and contests, and much more. Come for the race, and stay for the day! The race will be held rain or shine, and t-shirts are guaranteed to all pre-registered participants. Register at the ICS shelter, at a variety of businesses around the area, or online at http://thtiming.com. 5K Run/Walk Split times at miles 1 & 2, one water station, and refreshments following the race. Awards for first finisher (male/female) in each age group. 1 Mile Dog Walk Bandanas will be provided for all participating dogs. Dogs must be leashed at all times, vaccinated, and must be friendly.

Fall Gala and Calendar Orders

Saturday November 2 we will hold our annual fall gala at the Old Town Banquet Hall in Valparaiso. This excellent location provided us with a fabulous 35th Anniversary gala last year, and we are happy to be able to work with this facility once again in 2013. New this year will be an option to get your cats image into a beautiful 2014 calendar, which you can order during the gala or anytime prior to November 2, 2013. Full-page images for each of the 12 months of the year will be $50 per image; you may also pay $10 to have your cats image on any of the individual day squares for the entire year. Keep an eye on our website and our Facebook page for more details regarding this terrific event and concurrent calendar offer!

Summer Book Sale

If you want to get some wonderful deals on books, from fiction to textbooks to kids books, look no further than our fabulous book sale, where all proceeds go straight to helping ICS cats and kittens. Crafts, jewelry, artwork, and snacks will also be available both days, so bring the entire family!

All -Year Online Auctions

Want to donate or assist in running an online event? Contact us at shelter@catsociety.org or message us right on Facebook!

Our annual Book Sale will be held July 19, 2013 from 10am to 5pm and July 20, 2013 from 10am to 3pm at the Chesterton American Legion Hall at 798 Wabash Avenue. You may drop off your gently used books, magazines, DVDs, video games, and other media the day before, on July 18 from 12pm to 5pm.

Dont forget to check out our website and Facebook page periodically, as we are hosting more and more unique and special online events, including online auctions for amazing items, including handmade crafts and jewelry, gift certificates for local services and businesses, and much more.

Aluminum Can Donations

Aluminum cans help us spay and neuter! All proceeds from the collection of recycling fees from aluminum directly support our spay and neuter activities. For more info or details on our spay and neuter programs, email icstnr@comcast.net.

Building Fund Update

As ICS continues to plan for a bright and prosperous future for all of the cats that need our help and support, we encourage you to consider making a donation to our Building Fund. This special fund is specifically for the purposes of designing and building a new building on our shelter grounds. While this new building is still in the early stages of planning, it is our hope that within the years to come, we can move forward with creating a more spacious environment that can more adequately meet the needs of all of its feline residents, as well as its human visitors, volunteers and staff. But, in order to make this dream come true, we need your help! You may contribute by donating directly to the building fund, purchase a brick or other memorial for our Rainbow Bridge Garden, or perhaps consider donating your time by serving on the Building Fund Committee. Please see our website at http://catsociety.org or contact us at shelter@catsociety.org if you have questions or wish to find out how you can help with this ambitious initiative. We are also looking for corporate sponsors interested in donating funds, materials, or skilled labor, and would be happy to talk to you and your company further if you are interested in aiding in any way. 8

Low Cost Spay/Neuter Options are Growing!

ICS 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. (Payment by cash or money order only (No credit/debit cards/no checks) Basic Level: includes spay or neuter, first distemper vaccine, rabies vaccine, worming, ear mite treatment, and identification tattoo/microchip. Comprehensive Level: includes everything in the Basic level plus flea treatment, FELV and FIV testing, and the first Feline leukemia vaccine. 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 Basic - $65 Comprehensive - $90 Westchester Animal Clinic: 219-926-1194 55E US Highway 20, Porter Basic level only - $73 Dr. Andersons Feline Reduction Center holds a clinic every Saturday in Beverly Shores. The cost for the surgery is $50. The Rabies and distemper vaccines incur an extra charge, while ear cleaning, a pain shot, and a shot of penicillin is included. The scheduling number is 219-861-9006. Call and leave a message that you want to schedule your cat for a particular Saturday, and clinic staff will call you back with drop-off/pick-up details. Other local options: Neuter Scooter: www.neuterscooter.com Pet Neutering and Adoption: www.petneutering.com (DeMotte, Indiana) The Estelle Marcus Animal Clinic: www.hscalumet.org or (219) 924-7140 (Munster, Indiana) The Estelle Marcus Animal Clinic offers low-cost spays, neuters, and vaccinations for the following groups: 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 They also have 2 special programs: 1. Low-Income Senior Program: Seniors over the age of 65 and on government assistance (other than Social Security) can get their pets spayed, neutered and vaccinated for free! 2. Spay Your Momma Program: Low-income owners of a dogs or cats with litters can get moms and her litters spayed, neutered, and vaccinated for rabies for free! Owners must be on government assistance or Social Security. Call Calumet SNAP at 877-819-3300 for more information. Chicago options: NAWS: www.nawsus.org or (708) 478-5102 (Mokena, Illinois) PAWS Chicago: The Lurie Spay/Neuter Clinic or mobile unit, www.pawschicago.org or (773) 521-7729 (Chicago, Illinois) Anti Cruelty Society: www.anticruelty.org or (312) 644-8338 (Chicago, Illinois)

For help with spaying and neutering of free-roaming cats, please email us at: icstnr@comcast.net

Pippin
is a handsome longhaired gray male with a warm and fuzzy personality to go along with his beautiful coat! His sweet demeanor and soulful eyes will melt your heart and if you take him home, hell remind you every day that you are loved.

JJ
may look like a tough customer, but hes got a heart of gold. If you start petting him, he may not want you to ever leave! Be sure to visit this gentleman in our room called Nook.

Reesie
sure is a beauty. This young tabby lady has been waiting for her forever home for far too long. Why dont you come visit and play with her? Shell be sure to make you glad that you did!

Jupiter
is a fun-loving white and tabby mix who has been waiting for the right person to take him home since he was a kitten almost four years ago. Today he is a handsome boy who is as impressive as his name. Find him in Kikis Room and get to know him! 9

Memorials & Tributes...

In Memory of
Carol Decker from Marcine Todd Dorothy and LeRoy Wienke from Kenneth and Sharon Brooks Rick and Cheri Arizonas cat Annie from Patrick Ferrell Tom from Nathalie Pennington Gerber Deutsch, Mrs. & Mrs. Richard Deutschs beloved cat, from Louise Vale Gerhard Gaisser from Wendy A. Yellina and Jamie Walker

from 1/1/2013 to 3/1/2013

Eve Gardner from Martha Tilquist, Gary and Victoria McKinley, Kathleen Berwick, James and Lillian Hauff, and Carol Tufekcioglu Linda Cripliver from Michael and Melissa Burklow ICS lost a devoted friend. Dr. Gene Hay of Michigan City, who passed away on March 5, 2013. Along with his wife, son, and grandchildren, he is survived by his feline family, Tori and Victor. The quote from his obituary says it all for the rest of us: Adopt a shelter pet and receive love in return.

In Honor of
Donatalla from Abraham Wondergem Jane Dudley from NIPSCO-C

Elizabeth Canrights 13th birthday from her grandmother Jane Canright, Christopher and Megan Dilts, and Walter and Kim Wigley Thank you, Elizabeth, for requesting the above donations in lieu of a birthday gift - ICS wishes you the best birthday ever!

Karen Flahertys birthday from Kenneth and Sharon Brooks 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, HotSpot Cafe, Jackson 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. 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. Many thanks to another long-time supporter, the Unity Foundation, for their wonderful grant to help keep people and their pets together.

You know what time it is! Clean out those closets, because Aunt Kitty's famous Trash and Treasures Yard Sale will be here before you know it. Drop off your items at the shelter the day before the sale. If you havent been to one of our yard sales, you dont know what youre missing! These are like no other yard sales around! 10-3 on Saturday May 18th and 10-3 on Sunday May 19th Food, fun, and bargains galore! All proceeds support the cats and kittens at the Independent Cat Society.

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AJ CANOPY Rental and Sales 219-531-2194

Parties Graduations Reunions Weddings Craft Shows All Occasions We do all the Labor! All sizes available! Some colors available! Accessories available! 20+ Years Serving Northwest Indiana

2330 N. Hwy 35 LaPorte, IN 219-324-9950

SINCE 1959

ICS Corporate Sponsor

Sponsor-A-Cat!

from your Spokescat, Corky

Corky is right Sponsor-A-Cat is a superb program and makes possible so many things for our shelter. It also brings a little bit of joy into your life!

he other day, I saw Corky sitting by his window in the Disco room and listening to the birds outside, looking very pleased. Why so smug? I asked. Someone just told me the greatest news, he replied. I found out that Sponsor-A-Cat is one of the most important things to this shelter. It is the most reliable source of income that we have, so I must make it my mission to get every cat here a sponsor, right away! But how do we convince people that Sponsor-A-Cat is a great program for them to invest in? So we thought for a time together, trying to figure out how to convince folks people like you and your friends to take another cat into their hearts, even if there's no room in their homes. Suddenly, Corky got up with glee and said, Ive got it! He ran off down the hall with his next great idea. With the Sponsor-A-Cat program, donors and kind souls like you can pick one of our shelter cats or kittens to sponsor with a monthly donation of their choice.

The process for setting up a sponsorship is: Simple Painless Worry-Free Not only that, but you will receive a handsome photo of your sponsored kitty, with a biography to go along with it. Its great for people who wish they could have another animal companion around, but simply cannot for any reason. You can feel like your sponsored kitty is part of your very own family! You can even come visit him or her at the shelter, anytime during adoption hours. And of course, the best thing about sponsoring: No lugging big, heavy bags of litter (or changing it either!). No waking up with a crick in your back or neck from sleeping or sitting just the right way so that the cat is comfortable. 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.

Corky, your Spokescat If you want to help us 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 sponsored cat and his or her unique life story.
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, and well help you choose. Please help us find the perfect sponsor for every cat in the shelter this spring you wont be sorry you did!

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 Please mark SAC on your envelope and check memo. 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!

Earth Day Festival
April 20 Expo Center, Valparaiso, Indiana

Independent Cat Society PO Box 735 Westville, IN 46391

Non-Profit Organization US Postage

PAID
Valparaiso, IN Permit No. 134

Be Kind to Animals Festival

April 27 Expo Center, Valparaiso, Indiana

Black Cat Strut

April 28 Sunset Hill County Park, Valparaiso, Indiana

Wake Up the Garden

May 10 Independent Cat Society Shelter, Westville, Indiana

Aunt Kittys Trash and Treasure Sale

May 18 & 19 Independent Cat Society Shelter, Westville, Indiana

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? Donate or Volunteer!
______ I am donating $______ for the care of the cats and kittens. ______ I am donating $______ to the building fund. ______ I am donating $______ to the TNR/Assisted Spay & Neuter Fund. ______ I will help groom cats at the shelter. ______ I will help give cats their medications. ______ I will help at fundraising events. ______ I will be a foster parent. ______ I will donate my cat-themed artwork or crafts for fundraising events. ______ I will bake for fundraising events. ______ I will make adoption follow-up telephone calls. ______ I will help cats get good homes by becoming an adoption counselor. ______ I will help take care of the grounds and maintain the shelter. ______ I will distribute flyers for fundraisers.

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