Wildlife Group Throws Wild Halloween Bash

NORTH KINGSTOWN, RI — When Rocky, the raccoon, needs a friend, he can count on the volunteers and vets at the Wildlife Rehabilitators Association of RI and the Wildlife Clinic of RI.

Some 5,000 injured -- and orphaned -- birds and animals have received a helping hand from the clinic and the association, according to Kristin Fletcher, WRARI executive director. And that 5,000 is the running tally just for the current year, she said.

But there's no government funding to help wildlife, she said, so private donations, grants and fund raisers have to pay all the vet bills. The projected 2016 operating budget, which goes mostly to feed and house the animals, came in at $150,000.

So, on Saturday, Oct. 29, they're throwing the 13th annual Halloween Wildstock Benefit Concert at Jacky’s Galaxie, 383 Metacom Ave., Bristol, R.I.

The party goes from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Trinity, Rendition, Repercussions, Band of Brothers, and Crushed Velvet are providing the music. Tickets cost $25 and "include a delicious buffet provided by Jacky’s Galaxie, a dessert buffet, as well as a chance at a great door prize."

Costumes are welcome but not required.

To purchase advance tickets, call Kristin Fletcher at (401) 465-2460. Tickets can also be purchased online or at the door.