Regarding Rainey Foundation launches “Hot Fun In The Summertime” with 10 rescues, vendors, and law enforcement K9 demonstrations
The Rhine VFW Post 2729 filled with potential adopters, supply vendors, and rescue animals Friday as the Regarding Rainey Non-Profit Dog Foundation held its first “Hot Fun In The Summertime” Dog and Cat Adoption Event.
The free event, held from 3 to 8 p.m. at 5858 S. Archer, drew animals from 10 rescues including Chicago PAWS, Passive Impact Pet Rescue, Oak Park Animal Control, and Cat Care and Rescue. The afternoon featured raffles, food vendors, and presentations by law enforcement and veterans organizations.
Ramona Piencak, the foundation’s founder, created the event in memory of her dog Rainey, who died nine years ago after being overdosed with opioids by an inexperienced veterinarian.
“For the first time in my life I didn’t want to live,” Piencak said of the loss. “I promised him on his last breath he would be regarded, respected, and relevant, and because of this day, he is.”
Piencak said the foundation’s mission extends beyond her personal tragedy. “This is for the goodness and the betterment of dogs, cats, and their improved lives entwined with our lives. It’s a joint effort. We’re all in this together,” she said.
The event drew support from dozens of local businesses and two aldermen—Marty Quinn of the 13th Ward and Silvana Tabares of the 23rd Ward—as well as The Midway Chamber of Commerce.
There were plenty of dogs to choose at Wright-Way Rescue Credit: Carol McGowan 
Post Commander Charlie Johnson, right, with his grandson giving love to a dog Credit: Carol McGowan 
PAWS Chicago with an adorable puppy Credit: Carol McGowan 
Patriotic merch for sale Credit: Carol McGowan 
Friendly dog sporting a beard like his owner Credit: Carol McGowan 
Elizabeth French, left, with Officer Carlos Yanez of the Light The Line foundation Credit: Carol McGowan 
Delicious candy for sale Credit: Carol McGowan 
Officer Carlos Yanez getting a sweet treat from Mary’s Morning Mix Up Credit: Carol McGowan 
Sweet face of one of the cats up for adoption Credit: Carol McGowan 
One of the vendors with animal treats at the event Credit: Carol McGowan 
Law enforcement showcases K9 work
Officer Nelson Lewis of the Cook County Sheriff’s Department demonstrated the capabilities of K9 Ella, a 4.5-year-old bloodhound trained by Find-M’ Friends, a Florida-based nonprofit that supplies search dogs to law enforcement agencies nationwide.
“Her main job is to look for missing people, whether they be missing children, missing elderly adults, or criminals,” Lewis explained. The dog begins searches with a scent article—a piece of clothing or personal item—then trails the scent from the person’s last known location.
“We’ve had a lot of successful trails,” Lewis said.
Elizabeth French, founding executive director of Light the Line, a support organization for law enforcement officers, also attended. Light the Line provides on-scene crisis support, workshops, and resources to help officers manage work-related stress.
French said her daughter, Chicago Police Officer Ella French, was killed in the line of duty and was a passionate animal lover. “We are here because it’s all about support,” French said. “From family, friends, community, and of course our furry friends.”
Carlos Yanez, Officer Ella French’s partner who was critically injured in the same incident, is an executive board member of Light the Line and attended the event.
Community support drives first event
Rhine VFW Post Commander Charlie Johnson said the post was glad to host the adoption event. “This brings the community together,” Johnson said. “It’s nice for the animals to be here, and hopefully they get adopted. There’s a lot of merchandise here and it’s a great turnout.”
Piencak said the strong community response gives her confidence the event will become an annual tradition.