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“CASEY BONES”, “THOR” & “CHILLY!”

“THOR” “CHILLY” HAVE YOU BEEN BARKED AT LATELY? What is the story behind “Casey Bones” the 1989 Chevy Celebrity Beagle that drives around town barking at people both in and out of their cars? Jake Pasternak, a Richmond native, with a masters in Economics from NC State, returned to Richmond to teach economics at the University of Richmond. He has since left the University and currently works as CFO at Westwood Pharmacy. He lives in the near West End of Richmond with his 2 kids, 3 dogs and wife, Lori. Which brings us back to “Casey Bones”. In 2009, Lori, a skilled veterinary surgeon, came to Jake with the idea for Helping Hands, an affordable veterinary surgery and dental care hospital. With Jake’s background, he quickly developed a business plan and helped Lori and her business partner, Jacqueline Morasco, build and run the business. “He helped me figure out the lowest possible fees for my services and be able to “stay in business”, says Lori. “He takes care of all the book work so that I can focus all my attention on the animals. He’s no help in the operating room, as he can’t stand the sight of blood and I’m no help with the books, as I have no business background . We make a great team!” When Jake is not at the pharmacy or behind the computer at Helping Hands, he’s out riding around in Casey Bones barking. “Since I can’t help in the OR, this is my way of helping to save lives. The more people who know about Helping Hands, the less animals are euthanized or left to suffer due to economic hardship,” claims Jake. “It’s also great fun to see the faces of people as I drive by barking. People often stop me to ask about Casey, especially at stop lights. I had no way to give them information quickly, so I had soft bone shaped business cards made that I can safely throw to them. Next time you see me, wave and I’ll throw you a bone.” Casey Bones was brought to life through the generosity and love of Happy the Mural Artist who also painted the mural on the side of Helping Hands building in Carytown. “Cat lovers of Richmond have been asking if we are partial to dogs. Well, we are not. We love cats too and another car has been donated to Helping Hands.” Look out Richmond, you may soon be driving down the road and be “Meowed” at. For more information about Happy the Mural Artist visit his website at www.happytheartist.com

“CASEY BONES”