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Winter Garden residents Robin and Paul Sanchez brought along Elroy to the gala.
Gala co-chairs Mary Jacobs, Paul Richards and Robin Sanchez cuddled with some canine companions for a photo.
Brittany Gercken, Mary Jacobs, Paul Richards, Robin Sanchez and Kara Rountree posed in front of an ice sculpture for Tito’s Vodka.
Winter Garden residents Paul and Robin Sanchez, canine companion trainee Elroy and Debbie and Larry Cappleman love supporting Canine Companions for Independence.
Amy Reynolds and Tracie Plott donned beautiful dresses for the occasion.
Shelley Lampman and canine Benjamin demonstrated how the dogs can be trained to assist those with disabilities.
Megan Morris and Craig Mateer perused the silent auction items.
Rose Douthit, Angela and Duane Meske and canine Huck were happy to be at the gala.
Kathy and Parker Ward brought along canine Denver to enjoy the evening.
Adele Moses, Ashton Roberts and canines Bodie and Annie loved meeting new people.
The silent auction was loaded with fun prizes, such as this collection of dog toys.
Cory and Brian Yanick enjoyed the cocktail hour.
Colorful fruit kebabs were available during cocktail hour.
Joe Haughney, John McClain and Donald Ferro chatted as they attended the VIP reception.
Two of the dogs snuggled up and rested as their handlers chatted.
Mari McGaha and Tyler Kauff enjoyed a drink as they roamed the main hall.
Sharon and Tom Oliphant drove from the Tampa Bay area to attend the gala.
Robyn and Dave Baltar and Joe and Kate Haleski were happy to support Canine Companions for Independence.
Georgia Middleman and Gary Burr perused the silent auction before hitting the stage as the musical guests.
Volunteers Maria Tinajero, Kimberly Ponce and Stephanie Zak helped ensure the gala ran smoothly.
Katelyn Martin and canine companion Dario took a sweet photo together.
Cristina Saint-Blancard and canine Tatiana, Katelyn Martin and canine Dario, Melody Steele-Martin, Brittnay Dupont and canine Twister were all smiles at the gala.

BLACK TIE: Canine Companions for Independence’s 21st Annual Tales and Tails Gala

Supporters of Canine Companions for Independence brought the Southern charm to Rosen Shingle Creek for an evening of “Southern Pawspitality.”
By: 
Danielle Hendrix
Black Tie Editor
  • Read more about Danielle Hendrix
Oct. 16, 2017

ORLANDO  Humans and their furry, four-legged counterparts alike roamed the Rosen Shingle Creek on Saturday, Oct. 14, as they attended Canine Companions for Independence’s Southern-themed gala. The organization’s 21st annual Tales and Tails Gala was themed “Southern Pawspitality” this year, and even the dogs in attendance wore fancy bows and bowties in accordance with it. CCI’s gala featured Southern-inspired cuisine, live and silent auctions and entertainment from Gary Burr and Georgia Middleman. CCI is an assistance-dog organization that matches service and assistance dogs to people with disabilities. 

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