An enthusiastic crowd of dog lovers and their owners and admirers welcomed the 17th annual Volunteers in Northampton Schools Dog Show back on Saturday, March 1, for an afternoon of fun and smiles. Ribbons were awarded to a dog shown by both a youth and adult owner in 14 categories including Best Fetcher, Pooch Who Can Smooch and Most Photogenic.

Proudly walking away with the crowns for Best in Show were beloved pets Willow and Ziggy. The board of directors of VINS appreciates all who attended, as well as the over 80 local businesses and 30 volunteers who made the show possible.

Proceeds from the show fund the VINS program. Coordinator Andres Cucalon Molina recruits, trains, and places about 60 volunteers each year in district public schools. These volunteers help bring the helping hands and hearts of the community into schools to support school staff and enhance student learning. Contact vinsvolunteer@gmail.com for information about becoming a VINS volunteer.

Margie Riddle

Leeds