For the first time in its 21-year history as one of the area’s most popular fundraisers, the Clearfield County SPCA Calendar Contest will allow any digital photo, not only the ones taken at SPCA photo shoots, to compete for a spot on the 2013 calendar.
“As the contest enters its third decade, we thought it was time to take a new route to freshen it up a little. Twenty years ago, not everyone had a good digital camera so we had to rely on our professional photographers to get photos suitable for printing. With the blessing of the photographers, this year, anyone can take a picture of his or her pet and enter it in the contest,” said Pam Smith, SPCA executive director.
“We know there are terrific photos out there of pets hamming it up in situations we can’t duplicate in the studio – dogs in swimming pools, cats sleeping in silly places – so we believe the change will add a whole new dimension to the calendar,” she noted.
Smith added this will give pets who don’t travel well or are nervous in unfamiliar places, as well as pets other than dogs and cats who would be better portrayed in a candid shot, to participate.
For those pet owners who still want a professional portrait, three photos sessions are scheduled:
*Feb. 19, 1:30-4:30 p.m. at Waggin’ Trains in Clearfield, also with Dale. Call 765-0123 to make an appointment.
*Feb. 26, 1:30-4:30 p.m. at Adrian Sandy Fire hall in DuBois with photographer Dave Fulesday. No appointment necessary.
*March 4, 1:30-4:30 p.m. at SPCA Shelter in Philipsburg with photographer Amy Cutler. Call 342-3810 to make an appointment.
The entry fee for photos taken at the photo shoots is $10 and includes an 8×10 photo, a collection can and a small photo for the can. Additional photos, extra cans and other items, depending on the photographer, may be ordered then.
Photos not taken at one of the sessions may be entered in the contest for $3 and must be registered at Gray Engine Service in Clearfield, Paris Companies in DuBois, the SPCA shelter, Waggin’ Trains or Wiscoy. The fee includes a collection cans and additional cans may be ordered at registration. Those providing their own photos will be responsible for printing the photos and affixing them to the collection cans. These photos must be available in digital format.
On March 23, participants may pick up their orders, fundraising for the contest may begin and will continue until June 2.
The 12 photos that raise the most money will earn a spot on the calendar with the next 12 receiving honorable mention listing.
For more information, call Smith at 342-3810.