Hard economic times have taken a toll on animal rescue groups, and Catman2 is no exception.

Harold Sims, commonly known as Catman2, is hosting “Painted Cats on Parade” and hoping to raise $20,000.

The plan is to find people, groups, or corporations to sponsor a life-size fiberglass cat to be painted by talented artists who will turn it into a work of art. The cats and other art will be sold at auction to the highest bidder sometime in late October.

Donate a piece of fine art to be sold at auction. Or people can sponsor a cat for $150 or buy a cat for minimum donation of $500. Catman2 will have a cat painted to your design and have it delivered to you.

So if you are: a sponsor, artist, donor or auctioneer or wish to find out more information email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 828.293.0892. www.catman2.org.