Guide Dogs of The Desert Fundraiser

This past weekend I participated in a fundraiser for the Guide Dogs of the Desert that I helped organize. The mission of the Guide Dogs of the Desert is "to improve the lives of the blind by creating opportunities for life-changing independence, and by conducting community outreach and education programs." They are a great organization whose work embodies the human-animal bond with a true purpose and contribution to society. The fundraiser was held at a private home nestled in the mountain side of Palm Springs. The costs of the event was completely underwritten, so 100% of the proceeds went to the Guide Dogs. Actor and animal advocate Dick Van Patten is a supporter of the Guide Dogs of the Desert. His company Natural Balance pet food supplies the Guide Dog trainers with food and also donates money directly to the group. In this photo above, you can see Jimmy Van Patten and actress Linda Blair (both kneeling lower left). I'm standing in the middle-the only idiot with sunglasses on!

above: it was a hot day in Palm Springs, so the guide dogs decided to cool off in the pool.

above: this little guy decided to get in a few laps around the pool.

above: Me with actress and animal advocate Linda Blair, who runs the World Heart Foundation, which rescues dogs in need.

above: this is a slightly better photo of me and Linda Blair, except for the sunlight shining down on Linda. If you want to make a donation to Linda's animal rescue foundation click here.

Earlier in the day...

above: Popular syndicated radio host Harrison Forbes interviews actress Linda Blair at a live remote broadcast in Palm Springs. I was a guest on Harrison's show also, but Linda is much more interesting.

above: actor/writer/producer and friend Jimmy Van Patten, gives the "two thumbs up" under a poster of himself and dad Dick Van Patten. Their pet food company Natural Balance is helping to raise money for the Guide Dogs of the Desert.

-Rick Rockhill