Community Cat Coalition

Our Blog Has Moved

2011-01-21T11:46:00.006-05:00

The blog of Community Cat Coalition can now be followed on our new web site (www.communitycatcoalition.com). We look forward to keeping you informed about the important work we are doing in and for the community and its neighborhood cats.

The Fantastical Find

2011-01-13T20:04:00.003-05:00

I spied this discarded heavy duty cooler on the streets of Ybor City in Tampa during a recent trip to Florida. It's just the thing I've been looking for to line the inside of a Winter shelter I was working to make for my new neighborhood stray before leaving for the trip. It drove all the way back to New York with me and is now keeping a certain feline special someone warm and cozy.

Will Work for Love

2011-01-13T17:02:00.002-05:00

Ronin is a professional, young adult male cat who was rescued from the streets of Beacon over the Summer. Ronin has several years experience as a loving companion to offer the right home, yet he keeps getting overlooked for the job. He is well qualified and would make a great Personal Assistant to someone looking for unconditional love and support. Ronin is a self starter who works well with others, has impeccable organizational skills, good bathroom etiquette, maintains a well groomed appearance and is open to working in any stable, loving environment. Ronin asks for a one time, nominal hiring fee of $75 that covers his expenses, and he is willing to travel. If you are interested in hiring Ronin or in learning more about his skills, please contact his agent Community Cat Coalition via email or phone. Ronin looks forward to putting forth his best efforts to support yours.

How We Spell Hope

2011-01-13T16:46:00.003-05:00

Maggie and Abrham Lincoln

2011-01-13T13:50:00.004-05:00

Maggie is a senior something citizen who has been doing rescue and TNR in Beacon since age 18. She is my hero and an inspiration to the cause.

Give The Gift of Getting Involved

2010-12-21T20:12:00.001-05:00

Community Cat Coalition is an all volunteer grassroots initiative. It’s only by volunteer support that we exist and are able to help our neighbors and our neighborhood cats. There are many ways to get involved as a volunteer to help the cause. Volunteers are needed in the following areas. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please contact us for more details.

Accounting
Administrative & Clerical Coordination
Adoption Coordination
Cat Care (feeding, cleaning and medicating)
Community Relations
Database Development
Fundraising
Grant Writing
Graphic Design
Field Work (TNR)
Photography
Public Relations & Marketing
Shelter Making
Social Networking
Special Event Production
Temporary Foster Homes
Transport
Volunteer Development & Coordination

The Life and Loss of Pixel

2010-12-15T23:10:00.002-05:00

Pixel Caves Deal
May 2010 - December 2010

Pixel was not only a very special being, but a very lucky little boy who was found in a garbage can in Beacon in May of 2010. What saved him? His big mouth. Though he was small enough to fit in the palm of your hand at the time of rescue, his voice, mewing for help, was louder than bombs. And thank goodness. I shared time with Pixel while working to get him adopted into a good, loving home. He brought immense joy to my life. Pixel had great presence and a gentle, loving spirit. The day finally came when Pixel was adopted by a wonderful family who adored him tremendously. Pixel settled into his new home beautifully with a Mama and a Papa and siblings, too. Together, they shared laughs and love and tickles and tender moments. In November 2010, Pixel's health started to decline suddenly. A boy once full of radiant life was now listless and struggling for breathe. After thorough testing, it was determined that Pixel had contracted Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP), a fatal and incurable disease. This was devastating news. Despite the diagnosis, Pixel remained positive and fought to maintain his everyday life. His bravery though the struggle was nothing less than heroic. But the battle was lost on December 14, 2010. This little life, leaving far too soon, touched the lives of many. And he will be missed beyond measure. The lessons of love and life Pixel taught us will live on. Always. Thank you, Pixel. Pixel is survived by his parents Michelle Caves and Jared Deal and by his siblings Sushi and Sterling.

Community Cat Coalition Fund

2010-12-15T18:34:00.007-05:00

Community Cat Coalition is delighted to announce its partnership with Community Foundation of Dutchess County to establish a charitable fund for the Coalition. Our new relationship with CFDC will help us increase and administer our donations which will allow us to fully concentrate on our mission. Community Cat Coalition is a grassroots initiative dedicated to humanely resolving the feral and stray cat overpopulation crisis in Beacon, New York. The Coalition raises awareness and educate residents and merchants on stray and feral cat colony care, Trap Neuter Return (TNR), and the importance of accessible, affordable spay and neuter services through workshops and public outreach. We also provide TNR assistance to area Caregivers. The Coalition is an all volunteer and non-funded effort that relies solely on private donations which make possible the important work we do in and for the community and its neighborhood cats.

Donations of any generosity are deeply appreciated and can be sent via mail to the address below or made online. Your contribution is tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Please make cheques payable to Community Cat Coalition Fund. For online donations, please note Community Cat Coalition in the "Fund Name" section.

Donate By Mail

Community Cat Coalition Fund
c/o Community Foundation of Dutchess County
80 Washington Street, Suite 201
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601

Donate Online

http://www.communityfoundationdc.org/page30001.cfm

Catching Up

2010-10-08T16:11:00.003-04:00

The overwhelming demand for hands on assistance in the community has prevented us from keeping up to date on the blog. Pardon us, but know that we are in the midst of catching up on this and preparing for the launch of our web site. Stay tuned. In the meantime, please support us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/communitycatcoalition) and Petfinder (www.petfinder.com/NY1003.html).

A Second Chance For Ronin

2010-09-08T21:25:00.012-04:00

When I first saw Ronin, he was trying to eat bread on Main Street in front of the post office. Ronin was a startling sight as he was severely dehydrated and starving and suffering from a respiratory infection. I was on my bike at the time I randomly saw him so I called a fellow rescuer to come by with a humane trap to help get this poor guy off the street. Our rescue attempt was unsuccessful. Since I didn't know where this cat came from, I posted a "Have you seen me?" plea for help on the CCC Facebook page to which a noble citizen responded. That very same day, Ronin was rescued, and just in time as his condition has deteriorated significantly in just a couple of days. After weeks of fluids and special medications and treatments, Ronin is stable and recovering beautifully. I suspect Ronin was once a pet cat who was discarded and just couldn't survive on his own. While Ronin's health grows strong with each new day, he has been diagnosed with FIV. Ronin is positive and proud and looking for a home where he is either the sole cat or companion to another FIV+ cat. Can you give Ronin the second chance he deserves? Ronin can be hand delivered to any good home within two hours of Beacon, NY. Please contact CCC if you are interested in meeting Ronin and learning more about his remarkable survival at info@communitycatcoalition.com.

CCC at Spirit of Beacon Day

2010-09-08T13:52:00.012-04:00

CCC is excited to be a part of the 33rd annual Spirit of Beacon Day on Sunday, September 26, 2010 from 11AM to 4PM. We will have a table set up on Main Street with informational materials, homemade goods from a variety of local artists and artisans and a special parade performance.

For more information about the event, click here.

In The Press

2010-09-07T21:21:00.003-04:00

There is an article in the Poughkeepsie Journal about Community Cat Coalition. Despite some inaccuracies, it's helpful at raising awareness about the important work we are doing in the community to humanely reduce and control the stray and feral cat population and improve the quality of life for all Beacon citizens, both the human and the feline kind.

To read the article, click here.

Ed and Ernie

2010-08-04T10:32:00.001-04:00

Last Winter Ed the Mechanic adopted Ernie the Cat who was rescued as part of a TNR project. Ernie can be seen daily at the shop where he greets customers with a giant head butt and mew.

Fallon and His Forever

2010-08-02T21:38:00.001-04:00

Fallon the funny fingers kitten was recently adopted by the Gilman family in Hopewell Junction where he is adored by two particularly remarkable little girls.

Trap Neuter Return Workshop & Volunteer Rally

2010-08-02T09:23:00.002-04:00

CCC Cat & Kitten Adoption Event

2010-07-21T19:02:00.003-04:00

Our Friend Omar

2010-06-07T22:52:00.003-04:00

(have) The Courage to Act

2010-06-07T22:12:00.002-04:00

Arts and Cats

2010-06-03T00:23:00.002-04:00

Post Beacon Barks Gratitude

2010-04-25T17:09:00.001-04:00

Thank you, Beacon, for the support at Beacon Barks. We had a great day with you. Super special thanks to Libby Faison, Steve Gold, Sara Pasti, Marc Schreibman, Michelle Caves, Kirsten Kucer, Marsha Aliaga, Belle Hann, Franny Lochow, The LaColla Family, Rick Price, Christine Seymour Price, Omar, Kelly Kingman, Paul O'Hanlon, Drew O'Hanlon, The Goodman Family, The Gurna Family, Kat Green, Fernworks, Kalene Rivers, Dan Weise, Open Space, The Ice Cream Express, Shirley Hot, The Franco Family, Ed Vermehren, Stephen Dickens, Kara, Korn, Lisa Altomare, Sai Corson, Tom Moore and all the kind folk who visited the CCC table.

The CCC at Beacon Barks on April 24, 2010

2010-04-10T14:52:00.002-04:00

The Community Cat Coalition is thrilled to be participating in this year's Beacon Barks parade on Saturday, April 24 from 11AM to 3PM. As part of the event, we will have a table with all sorts of goodies and marchers in the parade. Thus, your help is needed to make our presence known.

Table Sitters
Volunteers are needed to table sit in 2-hour shifts with two people for each shift (4 volunteers total). You simply need to be a pleasant presence to greet and distribute informational handouts to folk who may come by. Shift options are 11AM to 1PM and/or 1PM to 3PM.

Marchers
Looking for enthusiastic folk young and old and either human or canine in species to participate. A banner and a mascot will lead the group. Line up starts at 10:30 AM.

Please contact the Coalition at info@communitycatcoalition.com with your interest in participating.

A Noble Kind of Name

2010-03-31T22:01:00.004-04:00

The third and lone babe was named Noble, and he was insistent on living. We were all too eager to help meet his demands. It's been a physically and emotionally exhausting few days for the both of us.

The Lessons of Loss

2010-03-31T21:30:00.004-04:00

Everything seemed to be going well until two of the babes perished suddenly and unexpectedly. Early one morning during the daily routine we discovered one of the babes had perished with the other taking its last breathes and the third fighting for his little life. This was a deeply devastating and heartbreaking situation we were desperately trying to save. Nora, who was a very young mama cat, apparently stopped nursing for reasons unknown. In an effort to save the third kitten, he was removed from mama and monitored closely being nursed by hand day in and out.

The Desperate Save for Lives

2010-03-30T22:44:00.007-04:00

There was a total of six kittens rescued as part of the TNR project at Bob's. One set was comprised of three newborn kittens (pictured above when first found) who were rescued with their mama named Nora. The plan was to let mama nurse the babes to term then TNR her and place the kittens up for adoption. However, nature had other plans in mind.

The Complication of Kittens

2010-03-30T22:02:00.003-04:00

During the trapping at Bob's, we discovered two sets of kittens that complicated matters quite a bit. The first set of three were days old and were discovered with their mama underneath a bed comforter. A stressed and feral mama ran off and hid, but we eventually were able to reunite her with her babes. The second set of three kittens who were about a week old, were found alone and crying tucked behind a bed. The orphaned kittens were fortunate to be placed into foster care with PANT while the younger kittens and their mama were placed in the care of friends Christine and Rick Price. The Coalition is deeply grateful to both PANT and the Price family for their spontaneous support.

Documenting The Bob Project

2010-03-30T20:40:00.004-04:00

The TNR project at Bob's was challenging on many levels and involved trapping cats both in and outside of the house. One might think trapping in a contained environment is easy, but it proved to be far more difficult than we could have ever imagined.

A Bob of A Big Day

2010-03-28T14:55:00.004-04:00

The Coalition prepared for a big project to help an ill and elderly gentleman named Bob. It took us a while to finally take action due to an assortment of complications including lack of staging space and funding. The overall goal is to help 14 to 16 cats that comprise the colony. Ideally, the colony would be trapped at once, but this is not possible due to limited resources. Thus, the project will be broken out into two phases with the first one targeting 8 cats.

Taking It To The Streets

2010-03-24T21:51:00.000-04:00

Dear friend and mad talented artist Elia Gurna designed a fun flier for the Coalition. We love the flier and we love Elia and her family. Keep an eye out for us around town as our public presence is being launched.

Action No. 2

2010-03-24T21:35:00.000-04:00

As we were waiting in the reception area of Antalek & Moore today to price out liability insurance we can't afford, we felt inspired while thumbing through the book titled How to Make the World a Better Place. 116 Ways You Can Make a Difference by Linda Catling and Jeffrey Hollender. Action number two was particularly uplifting especially as we have been feeling overwhelmed by our recent efforts in Beacon due to lack of community support. Agent Kathleen Sanford was a further source of inspiration. And hope.

Easton and Cutout Cat the Friend

2010-03-24T21:20:00.000-04:00

Easton and his family are strong supporters of the Coalition. Mama Weise has designed and hand made the coolest of cat shelters and Papa Weise has cleverly designed the identity for the Coalition. We think they are the cats meow.

Playing Playback

2010-03-22T22:08:00.000-04:00

The Coalition was a proud guest and volunteer table sitter for AWAN at the "Animal Companions" performance by Hudson River Playback Theatre at the Woodstock Community Center. It was an inspiring experience. Thank you, AWAN and Players for the warm invitation.

Clinic Day at Kingston

2010-03-15T23:49:00.004-04:00

It was an early rise for the Coalition as we had a long drive to the Ulster County SPCA in Kingston for appointments at their spay and neuter clinic. Before getting in the car, we have to prep the cats in the holding space. Prepping the cats involves making sure the traps are clean and lined with fresh newspaper and fresh linens covering the traps. Coalition volunteers Willie and Fran generously offered to transport us and the cats to our destination that is about 45 minutes North of Beacon.

Willie is a dedicated volunteer who rises to any call for help. The Coalition is grateful to have him and his wonderful wife Fran as members.

The UCSPCA clinic is run by Mary Ellen who is one of the best beings in the world. The clinic is well organized and comprised of a highly skilled, knowledgeable and compassionate staff.

The cats are staged in room and carefully labeled with information that includes clear identification of the rescuer and the individual cat's sex, coloring and services to be performed. The cats are dropped off for intake between 8:00 and 8:30 AM and picked up between 4:30 and 5:00 PM.

The clinic happens twice a week and is open to both rescuers and the general public.

There is a variety of amusing artwork around the clinic that we couldn't resist photographing.

It costs the Coalition on average $50 per cat for neutering and rabies vaccination. There are additional vet expenses often incurred such as medication and treatment for sick or injured cats and testing and further vaccination for adoptable cats that will be placed into homes. Then there are expenses for a variety of supplies for trapping and care for the cats while they are with us in the holding space for about a week for each project. It all adds up to a lot and a lot is something we don't have.

Finding Bob

2010-03-14T18:57:00.007-04:00

The Coalition has been distressed about a colony issue involving an elderly Caregiver named Bob who was recently admitted into a managed care facility after having surgery to amputate a leg due to circulation issues. Bob cares for a colony of 14 cats. He started out with 2 about a year ago. We've been desperately trying to reach Bob for weeks but were finally able to get in touch with a family member who we will be working with to TNR and relocate some of the cats to a barn in Ghent.

TNR and The Ticking Clock

2010-03-10T21:50:00.001-05:00

Last week, we loaded up a loaned vehicle for our second project staged out of the Beacon Chamber of Commerce space. The Coalition owns a couple traps with the rest being borrowed from a variety of sources near and far. Sourcing loaned traps can be a stressful aspect of the work as there aren't any local trap banks to borrow from.

The recent TNR project involved humanely trapping a high visibility colony on the West side of town. Once arriving at the project site, the traps are prepared with bait and covers then placed in a variety of areas around the home base of the colony and set. Once the traps are baited, placed and set, it' a waiting game. Sometimes it takes minutes for the cats to respond but more commonly takes hours. The Coalition is working on a long list of TNR projects scheduled to be done a bi-weekly basis as an aggressive (but humane) approach to resolving the cat overpopulation crisis in Beacon. The clock is ticking and Kitten Season is upon us.

Ernie With A Different Burt

2010-03-10T20:03:00.002-05:00

Ernie, who was once Buddy then Earnest, was an abandoned cat forced to endure life on the streets until the Coalition recently humanely trapped, neutered and vaccinated him as part of our TNR efforts in Beacon. He was clearly far too friendly to be returned to his colony and Caregiver so was placed up for adoption. Ernie now happily lives with Ed the mechanic at his shop where he greets customers on a daily basis. Graham Goodman, one of the Coalition's youngest members, recently enjoyed afternoon snack time with Ernie. The two became fast friends.

The Wonder of Wonderful Beings

2010-03-10T18:50:00.000-05:00

We had the pleasure of meeting Goldee Greene of Beacon Free Press and her handsome boy Bagel at the Beacon Chamber of Commerce event today. They are a dynamic duo the Coalition is proud to know.

Walking Donation

2010-03-10T18:33:00.001-05:00

The Coalition received a generous donation from stand up citizen Michael and his faithful companion Lola as we were passing one another on Main Street. Thank you, good beings.

Cutting Ribbon

2010-03-10T18:15:00.000-05:00

The Coalition celebrated the opening of the Beacon Chamber of Commerce space on Main Street today. It was a glorious day with a big turnout and we met some remarkable members of the Beacon community. The Chamber of Commerce and the Beacon Group in cooperation with Momir Guzijan generously loan this space to us for our TNR projects as we currently lack a dedicated space of our own. The Coalition is deeply grateful for their support as without it, we would not be able to do our work in and for the Beacon community.

Prep and The Plot

2010-03-04T22:50:00.001-05:00

We are exhausted but happy from a long day of prep for a TNR project and filming for a PSA about the Coalition. Physical prep for a TNR project usually takes a couple of days, depending on the scope but coordination can take weeks especially as we currently lack a dedicated space and resources. The Coalition is working with Super 9 Films on the PSA.

Check Your Bread

2010-03-03T23:24:00.000-05:00

The Coalition recently received an unexpected donation from a couple of fine Beacon citizens. We are touched by their kind gesture. It's our first donation in check form which we are quite excited about it.

Sexy Beast

2010-03-03T23:18:00.001-05:00

Friends of the Coalition generously loaned us their ueber trap for our upcoming TNR project. This beauty has the best back door and is a trap we hope to have as our standard trap someday. They are costly at about $65 each but worth every little penny due to their practical and safe design.

Preparation for Project

2010-03-03T23:12:00.001-05:00

The Coalition is preparing for another project to be staged at the Beacon Chamber of Commerce space on Main Street. We picked up our preferred dry food from Blue Seal as one of our standard supplies. At $14.99 for a 32 pound bag, it's quite the deal for a good quality food. The Coalition gratefully accepts food donations of this (or any) kind. Please email us should you be interested in making a contribution.

Catman

2010-03-03T22:29:00.002-05:00

At Your Service

2010-03-03T22:26:00.000-05:00

During our rounds to check colony sites around town during the snow storm, we came across an amusing contrast of a sight that inspired us. The Coalition works in a volunteer capacity on behalf of the betterment of the Beacon community. We are committed to a similar creed as the postal service... "Neither rain nor snow, nor sleet nor dark of night shall stay these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds".

Somethings of A Storm

2010-03-03T22:15:00.002-05:00

Beacon had a bully of a guest recently in the form of a Winter storm that brutalized the city over the course of a few days. Once the storm settled down, The Coalition visited various colony sites around town to check on the cats and their feeding and shelter stations. Some of the sites were difficult to access due to the magnitude of snow but we forged our way forth through it to clear access.

We waded through waist high snow to reach this feeding station on the East side of town that was buried under a tree weighed down by the dense snow accumulation.

This shelter was buried under nearly four feet of snow and was a challenge to get to.

The Present of A Post

2010-03-02T16:17:00.000-05:00

The Coalition recently established a post office box at the Beacon Post Office. We are excited to have a new residence to receive mail at.

Volunteers Wanted

2010-02-22T20:09:00.003-05:00

The Community Cat Coalition needs YOU to help support its humane efforts to resolve the stray and feral cat overpopulation issue in Beacon. The Coalition is a non-funded, all volunteer run and inspired organization. We have a lot to accomplish, but we can't do it alone. Please email us at info@communitycatcoalition.com if you are interested in learning more about how you can get involved. We look forward to your participation in building a better Beacon (for us all).

Letting Go of Lady Jane

2010-02-22T18:13:00.001-05:00

Lady Jane sits quietly while awaiting release back to her colony and Caregiver on the West end of Beacon. She is a fiery lady who eluded previous trapping attempts for the last seven years. The Coalition was delighted to have her company for a few days in preparation for and recovery from a visit to the spay and neuter clinic at the Dutchess County SPCA as part of our TNR efforts in Beacon. We will miss Jane, but know she will be happier (and now healthier) back at the colony she calls home.

The Big Day

2010-02-18T15:57:00.003-05:00

We were up extra early this morning to get ourselves and the cats ready for the trek to the Dutchess County SPCA. Today, Lady Jane and Earnest will get spayed and neutered and vaccinated as part of our TNR program in Beacon. Earnest chatted the whole way there while Lady Jane remained quiet sans a few soft mews of comfort she offered to Earnest. She's not feeling to well due to a mild URI, an all too common infection in cats especially those with access to or living outdoors. Lady Jane will be receiving treatment for her little cold and will not be released back to her home territory until she is fully recovered.

Mr. Mushaboom

2010-02-18T15:44:00.001-05:00

It turns out that Earnest, formerly Big Boy Buddy, is a total mush and far too friendly to be released back to the streets. The Coalition always works to place adoptable kittens and adult cats into homes whenever possible.Apparently, Earnest was dumped (out of a car) to the street by his owners about a year ago. Since then, he's been struggling for his survival. But the streets haven't hardened Earnest. All this boy wants to do is love and eat, of which he will get plenty of in his new home.

Gratitude

2010-02-18T15:28:00.001-05:00

People have started to donate funds to the Coalition, and we are deeply touched by these gestures of kindness and generosity. Thank you, good people.

Citizenship

2010-02-16T20:48:00.001-05:00

In the spirit of supporting the local community, the Coalition established a business account with Citizens Bank in Beacon.We were warmly welcomed by Mary Szeparowycz who is an absolutely wonderful human being. Thank you, Mary, for taking good care of us.

Play It Forward

2010-02-15T22:16:00.008-05:00

Zsa Zsa, Coalition TNR Rescue

Don't have the time to volunteer but want to help the cause? The Coalition is now setup to receive monetary donations for its community TNR program via PayPal. Donating funds is a simple and easy way to be a vital part of the initiative and help the organization be effective and continue to do good work in and for the community. Your participation is just a click away.

A Form of Informing

2010-02-15T21:27:00.006-05:00

Furthering the Fostering of Friendship

2010-02-15T21:07:00.003-05:00

The Coalition received a surprise gift of edible goodies from friend and volunteer Cheryl Harmeling. Cheryl is a foster parent to Phyllis the cat who was humanely trapped and placed into foster care as part of the Coalition's efforts last summer in Beacon. We are grateful to Cheryl and her fambly for welcoming Phyllis into their home to nurture socialization with time, love and patience.

Of Benevolence and Bagels

2010-02-15T21:00:00.002-05:00

The Beacon Bagel responded to the Coalition's call for community help in the form of newspaper donations on a weekly basis. Thank you, Anik and Art! The Coalition hopes other community members will be inspired by your gesture and offer their own form of help to the cause.

The Morning Find

2010-02-15T20:49:00.000-05:00

The Coalition has been looking for just the right stuffed animal assistant to help demonstrate trapping techniques. We found this pussycat in a box of delightfully cute discarded belongings on Main Street on our way back from the morning cleaning and feeding shift at the recovery space. Thank you, stranger who is now friend.

A Sweet Suite

2010-02-15T20:31:00.003-05:00

Lady Jane and Buddy Big Boy are quiet, comfortable and warm inside the temporary staging and recovery space that will be their home for the next few days. The cats will be sterilized and vaccinated at the Dutchess County SPCA as part of their public low cost spay and neuter program. The Coalition is currently paying for such services out of their own (shallow) pockets.

Softness on The Side

2010-02-15T20:26:00.004-05:00

The Coalition helps to manage a few feral colonies in Beacon, all of whom received a heart shaped something serving of soft food as a Valentine treat.

The Documentation of Good Doing

2010-02-15T19:21:00.012-05:00

The Coalition worked on a TNR project today targeted to help three community cats on the West end of town. It took several months to secure a temporary space donation and a few days to coordinate logistics with hands on operations beginning at 11:00 AM and ended at 7:00PM.

11:24 AM Buddy Big Boy. This gentle giant was the first to be humanely trapped within four minutes of the trap being set.

1:00 PM Lady Jane. This street worn older woman was the most important one to trap. Jane has had endless cycles of litters for the past seven years, eluding previous trapping attempts by others. We are so happy to have her in our helpful hands.

3:12 PM Greystoke. He was too clever for the Coalition, refusing to fall for the trickery of the trap even though we offered a variety of feline delights and waited for hours. We still consider the operation to be successful despite his lack of cooperation and plan to return for Greystoke with a drop trap.

A Suprise Something Wonderful

2010-02-15T18:55:00.003-05:00

The Coalition had company during a Valentine's Day trapping project in the form of a mural by friend Elia Gurna. This sight made us smile real big like as it was an unexpected first time experience of the piece.

A Professional Public Servant

2010-02-15T18:26:00.006-05:00

Coalition founder and TNR director Nicole Ganas takes a brief (and rare) moment to herself before heading to the West side of town for a humane trapping project.

The Day As Done

2010-02-14T08:33:00.011-05:00

The Coalition worked late into the night preparing for Sunday's TNR project. We're ready to do some good work for the feline and human members of the Beacon community. The Coalition has actually been doing TNR in Beacon for nearly the last year and hopes to move forward on a humane animal control program it has proposed to the City.

Preparations

2010-02-13T23:46:00.005-05:00

The Coalition was cleaning cages and coordinating logistics today for a small TNR project in the West end of town on the designated day of love. This is an out of pocket operation that has been made possible by facilitation from AWAN, transportation from volunteers Marc Schreibman and Willie Olivencia, and a space donation from Momir Guzijan in cooperation with The Beacon Group and the Beacon Chamber of Commerce. We are grateful to know these kind folk as a part of our community partner family and look forward to developing a stronger presence of public support by and for the Beacon community.

The Not So Thug Life

2010-02-13T23:31:00.002-05:00

Poppy's owner and funny guy Paul Yeaple came up with a clever street sign for the Coalition. We're not a gang, but we do like the concept of a softer sign language for the streets.

The Brewing of Big Plans

2010-02-13T22:29:00.002-05:00

The Coalition signed up for the 4th annual Beacon Barks today. We're thrilled to be a part of the festival and parade. Thank you, Beacon Barkery, for creating this community event.

The Us and You of We

2010-02-11T22:17:00.002-05:00

The Community Cat Coalition is a grassroots initiative. We look forward to the participation of Beacon community members towards improving the quality of life for all us beings, both the human and the feline kind.

Checking In

2010-02-11T20:17:00.004-05:00

One aspect of TNR is colony management which involves a designated Caregiver who provides food, shelter and monitoring on a regular basis. The Coalition assists Caregivers in Beacon with the making and maintenance of winter shelters. Shelters range in materials and design and can be handmade or pre-made, but the fundamental elements remain the same : stable, insulated and weatherproof. It is important to check the shelters regularly, especially when extreme weather conditions are present. The Coalition made its rounds yesterday after the big snow storm, checking and clearing off snow. All the structures were in good shape, with this shelter offering a surprise inside (a cat).

Help for Helping Hands

2010-02-10T18:43:00.006-05:00

We just discovered The Citizen's Handbook and feel inspired by its presence and its vast offering of resources.

Super Punch Power

2010-02-09T19:36:00.007-05:00

The Coalition loves this t-shirt design Ray Freden created for his wife's TNR charity.

The Arrival of Isolator

2010-02-09T16:19:00.001-05:00

Today marks the arrival of the much anticipated pair of Isolators. Isolators are used as standard TNR practice with humane traps as a means of gaining access to occupied traps safely for feeding, cleaning or medical attention.

Doing Business As

2010-02-08T19:58:00.003-05:00

The Coalition was officially entered into one of the lovely big books of records at the Dutchess County Clerk's Office today. We are excited to be a part of history.

Giving the Gimme of Shelter

2010-02-07T22:56:00.015-05:00

Photo by Lee Friedlander

The Coalition is in desperate need of donated space for its TNR projects. A dedicated space loan is ideal so we don't have to constantly hustle for space, but we will gladly accept any suitable temporary space that is offered. Our goal is to sterilize and vaccinate the stray and feral cat population as swiftly as possible considering the rapid reproduction rate of felines.

Lack of staging space has been an ongoing issue in moving forward on beginning TNR efforts. Please consider donating extra or unused space on a temporary or long term basis if you have or have access to or knowledge of any that can be spared. The longer the project work is postponed, the more risk there is for the population to grow, especially considering Kitten Season is right around the corner.

What is involved with using a space?
Cats humanely trapped as part of TNR efforts will need approximately 5 days contained indoors per project to prepare for and recover from spay and neuter surgeries before release. Cats remain in covered cages lined for comfort on a folding table for the entire duration of time held in the space and handled only by specially trained volunteers. The cats remain remarkably calm and quiet. A specially trained volunteer who is required to sign a liability release will need to access the space 2x per day for feeding and cleaning (AM and PM).

Safety of the cats and the people handling them is the utmost priority of the Coalition. Precautions are taken to ensure the space does not get damaged (odor, stains, etc.) in any way. Our operations are minimal, meticulous orchestrated, contained, safe, clean and considerate. The Coalition supplies all materials for the projects (staging equipment, food, cleaning supplies, etc.).

What kind of space is needed for a TNR project?
The size of the space depends on the scope of the project. Trapping entire colonies at once is the ideal approach to TNR. However, that is not always possible due to resource constraints. Currently, the average size of Coalition TNR projects is based on 3 to 6 cats per project. Considering this, the donated space could be the size of a small bedroom, garage or basement. And it doesn't have to be pretty. However, the space does need to be contained, have electricity and access to a sink. If heat is not possible during the cold months, the space is potentially still viable with free standing heaters. There is an ideal space scenario and then there is the reality of what is available to us. We're flexible.

We beg you to help if you can. Please contact the Coalition for more details.

Of Muse and Mascot

2010-02-07T22:38:00.012-05:00

Have a clever mind or any experience with sewing or costume design? Well, then, the Coalition needs your help to design a mascot costume. Unusual or unexpected scrap materials are preferred. Kindly contact the Coalition if you are interested in putting your creative powers towards this fun and forward project.

The Short of A Long Hold

2010-02-07T21:14:00.006-05:00

Time with one of the many wonderful cats available for adoption at the Dutchess County SPCA during a drop off for a feral spay appointment as part of Coalition TNR efforts. Rescuers have to rise early and sometimes travel far for these precious appointments. Assistance is limited as there is an overwhelming demand for low cost spay and neuter assistance for stray and feral cats. Big thanks to Jack of All Visual Trades and Coalition volunteer Marc Schreibman for providing transport and documentation.

Dirty Hands

2010-02-07T20:26:00.010-05:00

A still moment captured during a long day of winter shelter construction. Coalition founder Nicole Ganas got the chance to use a jig saw for the first time. She now looks for any opportunity to use the tool.

What The Heck is TNR?

2010-02-07T17:41:00.009-05:00

Trap Neuter Return (TNR) is a method of controlling community cat populations. Using this technique, all the feral cats in a colony (family) are humanely trapped, spayed or neutered, vaccinated for rabies, ear tipped for identification and then returned to their home territory where they are fed, sheltered and monitored by a designated Caregiver. Whenever possible, kittens and friendly, adoptable adults are removed from the colony and offered for adoption.

Why TNR? Twenty years of evidence shows that trap and kill programs are not effective population control methods for community cats. The remaining cats will breed, the euthanized cats will quickly be replaced, and then those cats will breed. TNR has proven to be the most effective method of reducing the number of community cats in a specific area. It stops the problem because it stops the breeding. The caregivers provide day to day monitoring of the colonies so that any newcomers can be quickly trapped and sterilized.

TNR also saves taxpayers money. Without TNR, there is an endless stream of cats being brought to municipal shelters, where most of them are euthanized. TNR eliminates the cost to the public of maintaining and euthanizing the cats.

TNR is also good for neighborhoods. Neutering reduces nuisance behavior like late night howling, roaming and marking of territory (by spraying urine). Any negative impact of the cats is further reduced as the number of cats decreases. Caregivers can help resolve any cat-related conflicts by educating their neighbors about the effectiveness of TNR and providing humane cat deterrents, which keep cats away from areas where they are not wanted.

The Idea of Identity

2010-02-07T15:27:00.008-05:00

Deep gratitude to Thundercut for a brilliant logo design that beautifully communicates the harmony and positive change the Coalition is looking to promote within the Beacon community.

A Beginning for Beacon

2010-02-06T06:53:00.015-05:00

The Coalition has created a TNR program for Beacon in an effort to help the free roaming stray and feral cat overpopulation crisis. There are currently about 25 colony sites and almost 150 cats (and counting) in Beacon that need assistance. A tremendous amount of community support is needed to successfully resolve the issue. Please contact the Coalition if you are interested in volunteering time, service or donations towards a proactive and compassion based sustainable animal control program. Your community needs you.