Home > News & Events > MAARSianChronicles > Issue 13: August 2005 > MAARS News & Events: Feathers, Radio, and Fire — Oh My! / Upcoming MAARS Events

MAARS News & Events

Feathers, Radio, and Fire — Oh My!

by Alayne Rueber, MAARS Placement & Volunteer Director

Saturday, July 23, was busy day for MAARS! Some volunteers were busy caring for the flock at The Landing, some were on the radio, and still others were holding an adoption event…until the fire broke out. Whoa! Perhaps I should start from the beginning.

I would like to point out that if it were not for all of MAARS dedicated volunteers, none of these happenings could have taken place. For nearly 50 hours every week, 52 weeks a year they care for the flock at The Landing and keep the shelter in tip-top shape.

MAARS was featured on AM 950 Air America Minnesota, for the Animal Wise Radio Marathon. Animal Ark personalities hosted 23 hours of non-stop animal radio which included one entire hour devoted to captive birds. MAARS Senior Staff, Alayne Rueber and Eileen McCarthy, shared their knowledge and insight of captive birds and represented all the wonderful work that the organization does.

Meanwhile, MAARS was also part of the festivities at the Animal Ark Hastings shelter. In conjunction with the radio marathon, a 15-hour adoption-a-thon was held. Dogs, cats, rabbits. and birds were on-hand and represented for adoption. MAARS volunteers, Dale, Alex, and Alayne Rueber, visited with potential adopters from as far away as Rochester, MN. The day was going great until around 2:00 p.m.

A peculiar smell began to fill the room that MAARS and other rescue organizations were set up in. Thinking quickly, MAARS birds were taken out of the building even before the source of the smell was identified. Within a few minutes of their evacuation, fire alarms began to sound. Everyone was evacuated this time and 911 was called to alert the fire department.

It turned out that there was a small electrical fire in the air conditioning system for that room. The Hastings Police and Fire Departments were quick to respond and took charge of the situation. Three trucks, dozens of fire department employees, and several police cars filled the parking lot and street. They contained the fire and I am happy to report that no one was hurt or injured.

Tabby and Lindsey, two Green-winged Macaws, and Rosie, a Black-capped Lory, got a special treat that day. They were given front row seats to the excitement and a "ride to safety" in the back of the Rueber's car by a Hastings police officer.

The event was halted, pending an inspection by a qualified electrician. Molnar Electric of Inver Grove Heights saved the day by providing his services and only charged Animal Ark $1 for the services. Although late in the day, the shelter was able to reopen to the public.

It was a great day for MAARS! Let's hope that they don't get any more exciting.

Upcoming MAARS Events

September 1: Bird Care 101

Thursday, September 1, 2005

6:30–8:30 p.m.

Central Community Center, Room 217

6300 Walker St.

St. Louis Park, MN 55416

Qualified MAARS representatives host a St. Louis Park Community Education course, "Bird Care 101," the first Thursday of each month. This class is open to the public and is required for anyone volunteering at The Landing or adopting a bird from MAARS. The class covers the basics of bird care, including nutrition, environment, signs of health and illness, and common behaviors. Cost for the class is $16. You must pre-register with St. Louis Park Community Education or by sending an e-mail to classes@maars2.org.

September 24: MAARS Adoption Information Day

Saturday, September 24, 2005

11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

Animal Ark Hastings Shelter

2600 Industrial Court

Hastings, MN 55033

MAARS Placement Representatives will be present to answer any questions you have about adopting a bird from MAARS. Several birds that are available for adoption will be there for you to meet.

October 1: MAARStore Open House

Saturday, October 1, 2005

1:00–4:00 p.m.

The Landing (MAARS Shelter)

Contat us at (651) 275-0568 or birds@maars2.org for directions.

Come to shop, play or just to visit.  Toys, food, and many great supplies for your avian friends will be available for you to purchase or order. Be certain to check out the newest additions from Out of This World Bird Toys, sold exclusively at MAARS.

October 21: Stayin' Alive: 5th Annual MAARS Gala Benefit

Friday, October 21, 2005

5:00 p.m.

Radisson Plaza Hotel, Minneapolis

Click here for more information!

October 29: Bloomington Chuck & Don's Pet Food Outlet Grand Opening

Saturday, October 29, 2005

11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

Stop by and visit MAARS representatives at the newest Chuck & Don's Pet Food Outlet in Bloomington, MN. Ask questions, scratch a few birdies, and show your support for MAARS!

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