Alfred McGlynn, 74, and his wife Eileen, 67, of Cape Coral, came out to ARC's Taste, Tunes & More event Saturday at Tarpon Point Marina to support the organization from whom they adopted two cats four years ago.

"They're like our kids," Alfred McGlynn said as he headed over to a table with some pasta from Carrabba's.

The event took place from noon to 6 p.m. and drew about 1,700 visitors.

"It's a matter of trying to raise funds to support our animals and save lives," said Carlos Navedo, development director with ARC.

ARC raised more than $25,000 thanks to a $10 admission fee and proceeds from food vendors such as Hooters, Carrabba's, and Boar's Head. And the organization is still calculating proceeds.

"All of that will go toward the well-being of our animals at the shelter and anything else that can help our animals," Navedo said.

He said there are more than 500 animals currently housed at the 23-acre, no-kill shelter in North Fort Myers.

Board President Lee Allor said ARC had the highest number of animal intakes last year in the organization's 22-year history.

"But the good news is we had the highest adoption year we've ever had," he said. "We anticipate 2010 will be a challenge for us."

Visitors came out to the event for many reasons.

"I thought it was a beautiful day to get out of the house," said Barbara Marsden said as her granddaughters put some toppings on their hot dogs. "We also came to support ARC."

Part-time Cape Coral residents George and Mary Marturano enjoyed seeing the classic cars.

"I don't know much about cars, but they're really cool to look at," George Marturano said. "And I like music and animals. It's a good cause."

Premium Deli Provisions, a Boar's Head Distributor participated in the Animal Refuge Center fundraiser.