the

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Diamonds are a Dog’s Best Friend

sights set on raising close to $100,000 by the end of the year. “We have so much jewelry to sell,” Blake says, adding that area bars and restaurants are jumping on board to host large-scale parties. So far, Pawbrokers’ events have been held at Burgundy Moon Spa & Winehouse, Harvey’s, Kylie’s and Woody’s. In addition, Jan Simon-Massingale of Phoenix Jewelers has signed on to appraise any donated real gold, antique, diamond and other precious stones at no cost. Blake also credits friend Amy Ballard for help with much of the startup costs, as well as marketing expert Kris Kuocco, who came up with the name Pawbrokers. Donations are being made to various local animal rescue organizations, and Blake says she’s willing to work with any animal organization a party hostess or restaurant owner wants to support. — Lee McCracken

Lake Norman Currents | August 2010

Bangles, earrings and necklaces are funding futures for animals in need. Roxanne Blake and Linda Taylor of Cornelius are the masterminds behind Pawbrokers, which collects donated old jewelry (costume and fine) to sell at home parties with all the money going to animal charities to support the care of abused and abandoned cats and dogs. Pieces worth $85 to $100 are selling second-hand for $10 to $20. “Women love it, and they’re excited to have something to do with their old jewelry, as well as happy that 100 percent of their 10

money is going to animal rescues, instead of the party hostess or the sponsoring company,” says Blake. “Pawbrokers is going to be a household word, like Tupperware, very soon.” Blake, who ran two retail businesses in Connecticut before retiring to Lake Norman, has a childhood friend in New York who’s managing a huge publicity push. “She’s approaching Oprah and Ellen [DeGeneres] because they are such animal lovers.” Since January, Pawbrokers has raised more than $12,000, but with the opportunity to have a party a week, Blake has her

Photography by Chad Macy

Pawbrokers’ parties result in help for animals in need

Roxanne Blake created Pawbrokers to help furry friends in need. The Scoop Don’t miss the next Pawbrokers jewelry party on August 25, 6-9 p.m., at the Birkdale community clubhouse. Ballas Chiropractic is sponsoring the event and donating wine. To donate jewelry or host a party, visit www. pawbrokers.org or e-mail roxanne@pawbrokers.org.