Cook County News Herald

Acoustic Grooves, a benefit concert for Animal Allies





Judy and Bill Curtis created Liesl’s Fund to help support Arrowhead Animal Rescue in honor of their late daughter, Liesl Heston, who died at age 41 of ovarian cancer. Judy decided to put together a show to raise funds for AAR, and gathered a group of local performers who will showcase their talents at the Arrowhead Center for the Arts on October 29. All proceeds will go to Arrowhead Animal Rescue.

Judy and Bill Curtis created Liesl’s Fund to help support Arrowhead Animal Rescue in honor of their late daughter, Liesl Heston, who died at age 41 of ovarian cancer. Judy decided to put together a show to raise funds for AAR, and gathered a group of local performers who will showcase their talents at the Arrowhead Center for the Arts on October 29. All proceeds will go to Arrowhead Animal Rescue.

A benefit will be held for Arrowhead Animal Rescue on Sunday, October 29 from 2-4 p.m. at the Arrowhead Center for the Arts.

Cook County is a big county, without a real animal shelter. When injured, lost or abandoned animals have no place to go or when something happens to an owner and they are no longer able to care for their pets, the AAR steps in to the rescue, providing immediate assistance.

The AAR volunteers determine the best course of action by deciding how they can help each animal, such as feeding/housing/walking them by their small building near the Grand Marais campground. They also take them to the veterinarian. They spread the word about various animal rescues via WTIP Radio, Cook County Law Enforcement and posts on their Facebook page: “Arrowhead Animal Rescue – Cook County MN,” to get the word out about each “found” animal. Locating funds and volunteers is a continual process and no one is getting paid for their efforts…all the funds go to take care of the animals.

Judy and Bill Curtis created Liesl’s Fund to support the AAR, in loving memory of their daughter, Liesl Heston, who died two years ago at age 41 from ovarian cancer. She was a great friend of animals including her two pugs, Winston and Otis.

Judy said, “I want to put together a show to benefit the AAR!” Acoustic Grooves evolved and the musicians jumped on board. Acoustic artist Michael Monroe, an AAR volunteer with a passion for pups, sent out monthly emails to let his fans know there were two dogs available, that he’d enjoyed taking on daily walks. As a result, both dogs were adopted.

Artists featured at the event are Michael Monroe, who will perform his original tunes, Hot Jazz virtuoso guitarists Briand Morrison/Sam Miltitch and local folk hero Joe Paulik.

Monroe, along with master of ceremonies Tyler Howell, will present a live auction, which includes many of Cook County’s finest offerings, including Howell’s own sailboat and trailer.

There is also a bake sale sponsored by the Congregational UCC.

Church and a pet photo contest with a first place prize of a Dog Huus gift card worth $100 and second place of $50 offered by Superior Clips.

Curtis said, “We would love to fill the ACA, so join in support of Acoustic Grooves and contribute whatever you can.” Tickets are by donation online or at the door.

“Everyone who has felt the unconditional love of an animal should come to this event. They give so much and ask so little…there are so many that get into predicaments that break your heart. They need our help!” Said Gay ODonnell, an ARR volunteer.


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