Early-bird Santas can get a holiday headstart on stocking stuffers and other yuletide gifts this weekend and early next week, all the while contributing to the well-being of animals in Putnam County.
The Putnam County Humane Society will have a Christmas Open House at their Paws and Shop Thrift Store in Hurricane from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 5 through Saturday, Nov. 7.
The open house will feature a wide array of Christmas merchandise at low prices. "We'll have a lot of Christmas trees people have brought in, a lot of ornaments, figurines and other Christmas décor items," said Humane Society Treasurer and thrift store volunteer Terrie Miske. "There are several sets of beautiful Christmas dishes.
"A lot of it is new, donated items people didn't use. We really have a lot of beautiful Christmas merchandise, and we're going to turn the entire front room into a Christmas room this year," said Miske.
The open house will also serve free refreshments, with holiday music piped in to put patrons in the proper holiday spirit.
Paws and Shop is located at 2806 Putnam Ave. in Hurricane, next to the John Henson Senior Center.
The Putnam County Humane Society is a nonprofit, all-volunteer organization. All proceeds from its shop sales are used to support the spay/neuter and medical programs.
Throughout the year, Paws and Shop is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Call 304-562-0300 if you have any questions.
The Greenhouse of Teays Valley and the Putnam County Humane Society will also stage a holiday-themed fundraiser on Tuesday, Nov. 10 from 5 to 8 p.m.
"While here," said Eric Reckard, The Greenhouse of Teays Valley's owner, "we'll serve you some delectable appetizers prepared on our giant Weber Grill, featuring many of our wonderful specialty marinades and gourmet foods.
"Shop, socialize, support this wonderful organization and to top it off, 10 percent of the sales for the evening will be donated to the Putnam County Humane Society. We'll also have a special promotion reserved only for you.
"If you haven't experienced The Greenhouse of Teays Valley," Reckard continued, "this is your chance to enjoy the magic and ambience of the area's newest and most vibrant shopping destination - right here in your own back yard.
"We are newcomers to Teays Valley, but not newcomers to business. Our original store, The Greenhouse at Historic Abicht's Landing in St. Marys, has been around since 1977 and a strong supporter of the Pleasants County Humane Society for many years.
"When we decided to expand, Teays Valley seemed a perfect fit for us. And we're so happy to be here and equally happy to support the Putnam County Humane Society.
"You will be thrilled and surprised by our extensive collection of boutique brands. From Trollbeads ... to Paula Deen Sauces and Marinades ... to Lampe Berger, Switchflops, Jody Coyote earrings, IMAX home décor items, TAG kitchen and dining accessories, exquisite custom designed silk florals and wreaths. Come and discover our fun store," Reckard said.
"Make sure you sample the crowd-pleasing Dr. Pete's Praline Mustard Glaze while you're here - but consider this fair warning. If you try it, you'll buy it!" Reckard predicted.
The Greenhouse will add free gift wrapping for purchases on Tuesday evening, as well.
To prepare adequate food for the fundraiser, Reckard requests RSVPs, e-mailed to eric@thegreenhouseinc.com or by calling 304-397-6316.
"Or you can let any of your friends at the Humane Society know and they will pass along your RSVP," he said. "Please bring as many friends and guests as you can."
He noted that those who will be unable to attend Tuesday evening's event should, if possible, visit The Greenhouse of Teays Valley on Tuesday and identify themselves as a Humane Society supporter; proceeds from their purchases on the 10th will be directed to the fundraiser.
"We have enjoyed meeting our new neighbors," said Reckard, "and animal rescue is near and dear to our hearts. Don't miss this great event. We promise you an evening full of sparkling, feel-good fun!"
The Greenhouse of Teays Valley is located at 3554 Teays Valley Road, Suite 105, in Hurricane. The business' telephone number is 304-397-6316.