A Reflection on 2011

To my fellow citizens of Animal-Ville,
     The year 2011 has been a great for this fine city.  We have seen both ups and downs, but one should never dwell in the past, just simply learn from it.  As part of the Animal-Ville tradition I will be reviewing this year as I have the years past.  I feel that as a community we faced a lot of hardship and troubles, but that we overcame it.  The city is doing better then ever and has grown in not only population, but in community togetherness as well.  The following is my list of highlights from the year 2011.

January - The citizens gathered together for our 3rd annual ball-drop ringing in the new year.  Last years promise was "community".  As mayor I think we accomplished our goal and beyond. However, we also had a tragedy this month last year, when a small house fire spread to three other homes, killing two moles and a squirrel.  The community really came together and showed their support, and I thank you for all that you did!

Feburary - Our amazing city surpassed all previous records on "Love Day".  We had an astonishing 3,548 animals gather at Animal-Ville Square for the occasion.  We estimate over 6,000 hugs were given out, and we hope to break our record again in the up coming year.  Thanks again for all who participated!

March -March was a relatively quiet month for Animal-Ville.  And you know what they say, "no news is good news" right?

April - We had some terrible rain storms early in the month that caused some major flooding.  Luckily no animals were lost in the flood, and once again our community did a great job with temporary shelters and donations of food, water, and clothing to all those who suffered.  As with life these unfortunate events did lead to some good.  With help from the Piggy Bank, and Beaver Lumber we were able to hire contractors and take on 100's of volunteers to rebuild the homes that were destroyed. 

May - We green0lighted the Bark Bar Expressway Expansion Project on May 1st and broke ground.  It was a long and grueling project that was extended beyond the original deadline but by November it was completed, adding an extra travel lane in each direction to ease congestion.  Also in May we passed into law the "No Animal Left Out Side Act".  This act protected any animal that was homeless by providing them government supported housing and food until they were able to venture back out on their own.

June - Once again the city was plagued with flooding and bad storms.  We suffered one of the largest power outages on record!  Once again our great community and Animal-Ville Citizens came together to help their neighbors.  We once again were fortunate to not lose any lives during the dangerous and terrible storms, although many homes did suffer damage.  Another, more positive event, was the record setting graduation rate for our higher education system.  This year we saw over 75 animals graduate from our program, attaining the highest available education level in the region!  Congratulations on all the animals that made it!  And for those who are still in basic education, keep working on it!

July - July saw the lowest Unemployment rates of the year. A mere 2.4%!  We would like to thank Chipmunk E. Moneybags for his creation of over 300 jobs through the course of the month.  Although the Chipmunk may get into mischief around the town, he is still the largest single business owner/employer.

August - Throughout the month our members of office worked hard to deliver our great city the "Higher Standard of Education Act".  This law effectively guarantees any legal citizen of Animal-Ville the right to a fair and honest education.  Prior to this act many animals never attended any schooling, now all animals have the opportunity to attend at least a basic level educational facility.  The act also appropriated funds for 30 new teaching positions.  It was a huge success and just in time for the 2012 school cycle.

September - As mayor I found September to be a difficult month.  I faced a lot of opposition from groups that claimed I was doing an inferior job as mayor. However, with the revision of our 2012 Budget plan I was able to save tax-payers a 5% rate hike and freeze our current rate for another year.  I have always welcomed competition, but after passing the tax freeze there was an end to the protesting and a greater peace came over the Animal-Ville Community.

October -October was another challenging month.  It held the highest unemployment rate of the year 3.73%.  However, we still held together as a community and helped each other along.  The great citizens held the 4th annual "Candy for a Cause" with great success raising more money then ever before!

November - Our community was never closer than November.  The citizens did a fine job coming together to help those in need, and those in shelters.  I would like to personal thank all of you for what you did this year!  It was an amazing month for the city!  I would also like to thank the citizens for their cooperation with our flea scare.  Thank you for taking the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of fleas in the city.

December - Santa's arrival marked the greatest increase in sales the city has ever scene.  The economy of Animal-Ville exploded this year as everyone got into the spirit of giving.  Also important to note is the city was offered a contract to film a new TV series right here in our back yard!  "Adventures in Animal-Ville" will be airing sometime soon and will be staring our own local talent throughout the city.  So please check into that as well.

Thank you for your time and have a wonderful New Year
Mayor Harriman Bunny

WANTED: Chipmunk E. Moneybags and The Puppy

Attention Citizens,

We once again need your help in locating Chipmunk E. Moneybags and The Puppy.  They were last scene fleeing Fire Station #3 on foot after setting off the siren at approximately 2:10AM.  Anyone with information is urged to call the police department.  Please help us find him, our peace and protection depend on it!

Sincerely,
Black Bear

Tracking Santa

Track Santa this year using Google Earth and NORAD.  Keep your offspring in line as they watch Santa approach this Christmas Eve!

Ball Drop

Attention Citizens,
     We will be holding the 4th Annual Ball Drop on New Years Eve at Bunny Plaza.  The festivities start at 8pm.  There will be music, food, and fun!  Bring your friends and ring in in the new year!


Look forward to seeing you there!

A Very Puppy Christmas!

Attention Animals,
     Coming to a store near you, just in time for the holidays, "A Very Puppy Christmas"!  That's right the puppy has released his Christmas Album featuring the staples and standards of Christmas music!  "A Very Puppy Christmas" is a great addition to any family tradition and will be available in stores and online at Acorn.com on DEC. 13 2011!  Be sure to get your copy of this classic album!

Chipmunk E. Moneybags


A Very Puppy Christmas was recorded at Acorn Studios and it the sole property of Acorn Records.  A Very Puppy Christmas will be for sale at business city wide beginning December 13th 2011.  Acorn.com is a registered company and was used with permission within this post! 

Christmas Safety Tips

Hello again citizens, its the mayor here just reminding you to have a safe and happy Christmas!  Last year the city of Animal-ville had the "safest" Christmas on record, and I would like that to be the case for this year too!  I am going to take a moment to remind our fine citizens of some of the most important safety guidelines.  Please help us break our record and prevent fire and theft this year.

- Shopping Tips:
Shopping for Christmas (or other holiday gifts) should be a fun experience! But remebering a few simple precautions will ensure all your gifts make it safely under your Christmas Tree for you and your family to enjoy!

• Do Not leave your gifts Unattended or in plain site in your car.  Also lock the doors and place them out of sight to prevent burglary.
• Use credit cards for online purchases to prevent fraud, and to provide yourself with an insurance against the site and product ordered.
• Try not to carry multiple bags while mall shopping. It makes you a target for theft and will slow you down.
• Always keep your wallet secure in a front pocket, never place your bag in the shopping cart!
• Store gifts in a safe, cool and dry location.  The cold and water can be damaging to most
• Try not to carry multiple bags while mall shopping. It makes you a target for theft and will slow you down.
• Always keep your wallet secure in a front pocket, never place your bag in the shopping cart!

- Tree Maintance

• Each year inspect your light strings.  Wear and tear is extremely common.   Replace broken bulbs and if the wire is exposed replace the string entirely!
• Live tree's require LOTS of water.  Water them daily to prevent dry outs which lead to fires!
• Never hang ornaments or decorations from the light string...it's more prone to shorts and fire that way.
• Always make sure the tree is vertical in its stand.  A lop-sided tree can fall over at any time!
• Do not leave your tree lit for extended time periods or while unattended
• Do not use open flames on or near your Christmas Tree!

- Decorating Precautions

•  Each year inspect your light strings.  Wear and tear is extremely common.   Replace broken bulbs and if the wire is exposed replace the string entirely!
• Do  not place decorations directly on heaters, or near sources of extreme heat!
• Do not block emergency exits, such as doors or windows with decorations.  Always maintain a clear path to the exits in your home.
• Do not use indoor lights outside your home! They are not designed for water and cold!!!
• Do not bury lights under other materials the heat may cause fire.
• Never leave your lights on for extended periods of time, or unattended!

We hope you have a happy and safe holiday season!
Mayor Harriman Bunny

WANTED: Chipmunk E. Moneybags

Attention Citizens,

We once again need your help in locating Chipmunk E. Moneybags.  He was last scene fleeing Fire Station #2 on foot after setting off the siren at approximately 3:15AM.  Anyone with information is urged to call the police department.  Please help us find him, our peace and protection depend on it!

Sincerely,
Black Bear

Acorn Bank

Hello citizens of animal-ville,
  This is the chipmunk here, and I just wanted to inform you that I will be opening a new banking alternative called "Acorn Bank".  Acorn Bank will be a full service bank, offering credit cards, loans, and both checking and savings accounts.  I am currently opening a new location at 28 West Acorn Blvd. and invite all of you to come check us out. 

- As a special grand opening present I will be offering the first 100 customers a $50 sign on bonus check. -

Acorn Bank is not your typical bank.  We will offer you some of the best rates on the market*!  We will give any animal a loan**, and with three more locations on the way, there's no reason not to switch!!!!!  Come on down to Acorn Bank.  Opening on December 5th 2011!!!!!!

-Our Checking Accounts earn you interest!
-Our Savings Accounts can earn you up to 5%!
-Our Credit Cards have interest rates as low as 3.5%!
-Our Loan Rates are as low as 4.2%!
-We here at Acorn Bank can earn you more money then the other banks!!!!!

You won't be Sorry!

*Our rates are determined by your credit history, and current financial status. Your individual rates may vary.  Our introductory rates include 0.5% return on all checking accounts.  Up to 5% on your savings account.  As low as 3.5% on your credit card account.  Rates are subject to change.


**All loans acquired through Acorn Bank must be approved.  We will work with all legal citizens to provide a loan, however we cannot guarantee all applicants will receive the full amount of the desired loan.  Interest rates will be assigned based on credit history, and can be as low as 4.2% and as high as 35%.

Now Hiring at Acorn Shipping

Attention citizens,
     As the holidays approach I will be hiring temporary workers for both the warehouse and truck driving positions!  I will pay you a competitive salary.  Hours are flexible, so just call Acorn Shipping in Animal-Ville at (717) 329-5555 and ask to speak to Chipmunk E. Moneybags!  Some come get a job at Acorn Shipping today!

Chipmunk E. Moneybags

Happy Thanksgiving Animal-Ville

Hello Citizens!!!
   As mayor of animal-ville I just wanted to share a moment and wish all the citizens of animal-ville a happy thanksgiving.  I also want to remind our fine citizens that the food banks are accepting donations up until Tuesday.  Any citizen who is in need of a good meal is encouraged to visit their local shelter for a thanksgiving diner!  Thank you for your time, and enjoy this wonderful holiday of giving thanks!!!!

Christmas Town Opening Again!

Once again Christmas Town U.S.A. will be opening in Puppy-Land!  Bring your entire family down for fun in our totally-Christmas themed park Saturday's and Sunday's in December!  All members of the family will love the Christmas atmosphere that we create each and every year at Puppy-Land!

 - Every tree in the park will be decorated by local schools!  The guest voted favorite tree will win a prize of $500 for that school!
 - There will be over 40 rides open for everyone to enjoy!
 - Our Carousel Horses are magically transformed into reindeer!
 - We will be running special Christmas Shows, including our famous "Tap your way to Christmas"
 - All of our shops and stalls will be open for business!
 - Don't miss the magical "Christmas in Animal-ville Light Show" where we turn on over 100,000 Christmas lights depicting different scenes throughout our city!  This years theme is "apartment life"

Hours:
Saturday: 4pm - 10pm
Sunday: 4pm - 9pm

Admission:
Adults and Children: $10

So please come to Puppy-Land to help us support local schools, and to enjoy the magic that only Christmas Time can provide! 

*Note: Due to cold temperatures some rides may not be operational.  Unfortunately this includes roller coasters and rides that use hydraulic lift systems.  For your safety if the temperature falls below 45F we must close these rides.  We apologize for the inconvenience.

Piggy Bank Contest Winner!!!!!!!

We here at The Piggy Bank would like to thank all of the animals that came to our new Branch location at 294 Acorn Ave to support our grand opening!  We would like to congratulate:

Michelle Mouse of Animal-Ville

You have won a Brand-New Car!!!!!

Courtesy of Bunny Motors!

Please stop by any Piggy Bank location within the next week to claim your fabulous new prize!

Thank you to all the animals that came out in support of our new location.  Be sure to visit your local Branch or our website: www.ThePiggyBank.com to enter into our holiday cash-extravaganza!!!!!!  Each day one lucky animal will win $50!  And at the end of the year, one lucky animal will win the ultimate prize, $5,000!!!!

Must be a legal animal-ville resident human-age equivalent 16 or older to enter.   Each purchase made is considered one entry towards the grand prize drawing.  Eligibility is based on having an active (used within last three months) account with the Piggy Bank.  For a complete listing of rules stop by any branch location or visit online at www.thepiggybank.com/contests/cash-extravaganza/2011.

Filming has begun!

Attention citizens
     I am very happy to inform you that we have begun filming scenes from our theatrical piece "Life in the City"  Our local film crew has been wonderful to work with and as our actors complete more scenes we will be closer to a TV debut!  Please come down to the Golden Playhouse our show opens: Friday Nov. 18th at 8:00PM

Tickets are only $15!!!!!!! Be the first of your friends to witness this spectacular show, LIVE!!

Stephen Squirrel

Bark-Bar Expressway Opens

The Bark-Bar Expressway construction project is finally completed.  The new, and improved highway is now paved, painted, and ready to go!  We have improved the ramps, increased the break-down lanes, and made other improvements as needed.  Thank you again for your patience during the construction project.  Remember animals, drive safe!

Mayor Bunny

Candy For A Cause 2011

Thank you to all of the Animals that participated in this years Candy For A Cause! Thanks to your contributions we were able to raise over $1,500 to help shelter Animals in need!!!!!  We would also like to send out a very special thanks to The Piggy Bank.  With there help our donations became cash to help shelter those animals in need, and to provide them candy treats with there meals!

Together We Raised:

$1,536.23

Thank you again!
The "Homes for the Homeless Foundation"

Flea Infestation

Dear citizens of Animal-Ville
    I regret to inform you that recently there has been an increased number in flea reports.  This increase could be caused by a number of factors, including the annual migration of fleas from the outside into our homes.  However recent numbers suggest that even this cannot be the full cause.  I would just like to remind all citizens who are affected by the this problem to see your local veterinarian.  Fleas are not a laughing matter and if we fail to control the problem now, it will simply multiple into an epidemic!  I will go over some basics below.

- Fleas generally attack animals with fur, and latch on in hard to reach places.
- If one flea is spotted there are probably many more
- Be sure to wash all linens in hot water, and then place in the dryer
- Do not share clothing, linens, or other soft materials if you or the other animals may be contaiminated
- If you find a flea see your local veterinarian immediately!!!!

We appreciate your help in controlling the flea and tick populations in the City of Animal-Ville.  With your cooperation we can prevent these pests from taking over the town!

Sincerely,
    Mayor Harriman Bunny

Going on TV

Attention Citizens,

I Have very exciting news!  The Golden Play House production, "Life in the City" is going to be filmed and broadcast on the Bunny Broadcast Network!  We are all very excited to see this production getting the attention it truly deserves.  Remember opening night is approaching, so get your tickets to this fantastic show now!

Show Opens: Friday Nov. 18th at 8:00PM

Tickets are only $15!!!!!!! Be the first of your friends to witness this spectacular show


Stephen Squirrel

New Location: The Piggy Bank

Attention Citizens!
We are nearing completion of our newest "Piggy Bank" location.  Our newest bank branch is located at 294 Acorn Ave. just outside of the main city! 

Come to our grand opening celebration on November 7th!  We will have special business hours from 9am - 9pm and will be raffling off a brand new Car!!!!!!!!!  To enter simply come to the branch any time during opening week and open an account! 

Already a member?  That's OK, you will be automatically entered with every transaction made during our first week!!!  We will announce the winner on Friday Nov. 11th at 7pm!!!!!!!! 

So please come by for a week of fun and your chance to win a new car courtesy of Bunny Motors!

As with all of our locations the Piggy Bank will be open from Monday-Thursday 10am-4pm, Friday 9am-7pm, Saturday 10am-4pm, and Sunday 11am-2pm!  That's 7 days of banking convience! Plus our new location will have a drive up teller lane and a 24/7 ATM so you can access your acorns at anytime!

So thank you for choosing The Piggy Bank for all your banking needs!

*To be eligible you must be a legal citizen of animal-ville and at least 16 years of age (human year equivalent will be used to determine age.)  Upon claiming your prize all taxes, and registration fees will be due.  For a complete list of official rules visit your local piggy bank branch or go online to www.thepiggybank.com/contest/car-nov7. 

Trick-Or-Treat Guidlines

Attention Animal-Ville Citizens,
     In order to protect our children I would like to take a moment and remind all of you what "trick-or-treat" guidelines we should follow.  This year Halloween falls on a Monday.  Trick-or-Treaters will be out mostly in the afternoon and evening and I encourage all drivers to be extra alert!
- Halloween customs should be comfortable, and you should able to clearly see out of them
- At night wear light colors, or wear glow-sticks
- Always look both ways before crossing streets and driveways
- Pay attention to your surroundings
- Do not approach strangers in a car, or go inside a strangers home
- Always make sure candy is correctly packaged, if it looks suspicious or the package is damaged throw it out!
- Parents, children should be supervised!
- You should trick-or-treat in a group, never go out alone

As mayor of Animal-ville I hope everyone a very safe and fun Halloween!  I have also been ensured that extra police coverage has been assigned to Monday October 31st to ensure maximum safety.  Please enjoy your evening safely!

Mayor Harriman Bunny

Candy Drive is returning to Animal-ville

Hello citizens,
     I would like to inform all citizens that the 4th Annual "Candy for a Cause" fundraiser will be open all weekend from October 28th through November 1st.  This year's convention will be held at "The Animal-Ville Community Center" located on 35 Apple Orchard Road, in Animal-Ville.  Throughout the weekend, volunteers will be selling and collecting candy in an effort to raise money for homeless Animals.  All profits from Candy Sales will be donated directly to the "Homes for the Homeless" Organization.  In addition for every pound of candy we receive The Piggy Bank will be donating $1 to the cause!  That's right every pound of unused and unwanted candy will be money to help shelter animals in need.  So please stop by and make a difference in an Animals life today!

Location: 
The Animal-Ville Community Center
35 Apple Orchard Road
Animal-Ville City, 19201

Hours:
Friday Oct. 28th:  4pm-7pm
Saturday: 10am - 4pm
Sunday: 12pm - 4pm
Monday: 3pm - 8pm
Tuesday: 5pm - 8pm

Puppy Land Still Open

Want to be scared to death while at the premier theme park in Animal-Ville?   Will you be brave enough to walk through the park at night...with only a flashlight?? 

     Come down to Puppy Land for the last first annual "Scream-Fest" coming up October 28th, 29th and 30th!  Bring your friends, and family for this one weekend only scream-fest at Puppy Land. Our fully operational theme park will be open each terrifying day and night, featuring all of your favorite rides and attractions.  There will be special shows including a real life murder mystery!  Bring the kids for a fun day, and come back at night for our all new, Puppy-Land Flashlight hours.  The park lights will be turned off and all you will have to see is your very own flashlight.  Watch out for the scary ghosts and monsters living in the park!!!

Park Hours:
Friday: 5pm - 11pm (Flashlight hours)
Saturday:  10am - 5pm (Family Friendly Hours)
                6pm - 12am (Flashlight hours)
Sunday:    11pm - 5pm (Family Friendly Hours)
                6pm - 10pm (Flashlight Hours)

Admission:
  Adults: $25
  Children: $15

*Please note that an operational flashlight is required for flashlight hours.  All guests must provide a flashlight before admittance to the park.  For your convenience we will be selling flashlights and batteries both at the gate and throughout the park.

WANTED: Chipmunk E. Moneybags and The Puppy

Attention Citizens:

Once Again, we need your help in locating Chipmunk E. Moneybags and The Puppy.  They are thought to be linked to a recent string of arson's affecting the homes and businesses of Animal-Ville Citizens.
They were last seen driving a Black RC Car, heading East on the Animal-Ville Blvd.  Anyone with information is asked to call their local police station.

Name: Chipmunk E. Moneybags   Age:4 years     Height:2.83 Inches

Name:The Puppy   Age: 3.5 years   Height: 2.65 Inches  

Black Bear

On-Going Construction

I would like to thank all the citizens for their patience while we continue to work on the Bark-Bar Expressway Expansion project.  I understand that the original project was slated to be over this weekend, however with the extreme amount of rain and damaging storms the area has seen this summer, the project has been delayed.  Construction will continue through this month, and hopefully be finished before thanksgiving travel begins!

Thanks again for your cooperation
Mayor Bunny

Public Meeting

Attention Citiznes,
     There will be a public meeting to discuss the current state of the city at the "Burrow Inn" conference room.  This meeting is open to all citizens, and the mayor will be present to deliver a speech and to answer any questions you may have.  Some come down to speak your opinion!

Tuesday October 18th at 7:00pm at the Burrow Inn.

Hope to see you all there!

Testing Complete

Dear Citizens,
     The testing of the Siren at Hose Company #3 was a success!  I would like to thank all of the citizens that contributed to the cause, whether it was donating money or helping with the install, thanks!  Also I would like to make a special thanks to Black Bear, who aided the fire department in setting up the fund-raiser!  Thank you to all the citizens!

The Turtle

JOBS: Need New Truck Driver for Acorn Shipping

Attention Job Seekers,

I am currently looking for a driver to work in the yard at Acorn Shipping Company. Hours are from 3AM to 11:30AM, Monday through Friday.  No experience necessary.  Needs a current Animal-Ville Drivers License to qualify.  Contact me at (717) 283-**** for more information or to apply. 

Chipmunk E. Moneybags

Coming Soon

Attention All Animal Actors,
The Golden Play House is doing an open audition for its newest production. "Life in the City"  This production will be a direct reflection of living in the City of Animal-Ville.  We ask anyone who is interested to come down to the Play House Saturday October 8th for auditions!  This could go far people so lets get excited!!

For More information contact the Golden Play House at (717) 283-****!
Stephen Squirrel

WANTED: Chipmunk E. Moneybags

Attention Citizens:

Once Again, we need your help in locating Chipmunk E. Moneybags.  He is thought to be linked to a money-making scam involving the puppy and other Animal-Ville Citizens.  He was last seen smoking a cigar while driving a Blue RC Car and was heading West on the Bark Bar Expressway.  Anyone with information is asked to call their local police station.

Name: Chipmunk E. Moneybags   Age: 4    Height: 2.83 Inches

Black Bear

New Company

Hello citizens,
     I wanted to inform you that in addition to the wonderful services I already provide this city, I will be launching a new business entitled "Acorn Lumber".  I will be providing the great citizens with affordable lumber, and fire wood at lower prices than the bunny owned box stores.  So look for the new building along Acorn Avenue and stop in for the Grand Opening!
Coming Soon!

Chipmunk E. Moneybags

Signal Test

Attention Citizens:

There will be a test of the new fire signal on  Monday, October 3rd at Noon.  
This is to test the newly installed fire signal at Hose Company #3.  The signal will be set off for approximately 10 minutes.  Upon completion of the test the siren will be continued for use only during emergencies.  Thank you for your cooperation in our efforts to better the city. Again the Alarm siren will go off at

Noon on Monday, October 3rd, for apx. 10 minutes!

Thank you for your cooperation
The Turtle

Welcome Message

     Welcome to the Official City of Animal-Ville Blog.  This is Mayor Bunny here, just wanted to welcome all of you to the blog!  As I have mentioned already in the title, this is a blog for the citizens of my fine city.  However, anyone is allowed to follower, even you humans out there surfing the internet!  So feel free to post comments whether you have fur or not! 
     I would also like to please take this time ask that you, the reader, orient yourself with this blog.  In the bottom right column, we have links to pages about our citizens.  Not all citizens have been chosen for this section, but there are still spaces left, so if you want to read about someone, or feel you should be there submit to me a copy of what you want to say!  Also in the bottom of the screen is the subscription buttons.  Please subscribe to this blog to stay current with the events here in the city.  All people, citizens or otherwise, are welcome to follow this page.
     So without further ado, welcome to the blog, and please blog away citizens!

Mayor Bunny