Mark Twain House to host 10th annual Bark Twain Bash Sept. 13, honoring animal rescue and the arts

Some pawsitively delighted Bark Twain honorees pose with the man of the hour. Image courtesy of The Mark Twain House & Museum.

The Bark Twain Bash, co-hosted by WFSB’s Renee DiNino (Hello Connecticut) and playwright Jacques Lamarre, features delicious food from sponsor RastaRant, a cash bar, vendors, a silent auction, and many surprises. Additional support for this event is provided by StateFarm, Beloved Companions and Pawz at Peace, LLC.

The 2025 Bark Twain Award honorees that will be celebrated on September 13 include:

  • Officer Neal Cavanaugh and K9 Soleil of the Glastonbury Police Department
  • Animal Control Officer Kris Judd, East Hartford Police Department
  • Kristen Peralta of Vintage Pet Rescue
  • Author, artist and activist Cynthia Von Buhler

Co-host Jacques Lamarre states, “Mark Twain’s love of animals and support for animal rights has made this event a perfect collaboration with Kenway’s Cause. Our goal with The Bark Twain Bash…It’s the Cat’s Meow is to raise money for the home where Twain lived with so many of his family’s beloved pets and Kenway’s commitment to provide care and good homes for unsheltered and injured animals in Hartford.” 

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Co-host Renee DiNino states, “I love the opportunity to spotlight and celebrate the great people working with animals in our community. Over the past nine years, we have honored so many great animal advocates and this year will be no different. Best of all, it’s an awesome party!”

Tickets for The Bark Twain Bash…It’s the Cat’s Meow are $40 with proceeds split evenly between the museum and Kenway’s Cause. Well-behaved pets are allowed at this event, but please note there will be several service animal on hand and any furry guests are expected to behave gently with all guests. This event sells out, so reserving tickets in advance is a must. To purchase tickets, visit MarkTwainHouse.org/Events/.

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