Holiday home tour to benefit animals

MERCED -- Five Merced homes will open their doors this season for the Merced Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals' 20th annual Christmas Home Tour.

This year's tour will be from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. The Merced SPCA offers people the rare opportunity to walk through five stunning homes, each with a different holiday theme.

Those attending also will be treated to holiday goodies, carol singing and a raffle. Money from the event will benefit animals by purchasing supplies and funding veterinary costs.

The Merced SPCA is a no-kill adoption center with the goal of finding families for shelter pets.

Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at Expressions of Love in Atwater, and at five locations in Merced: Maciel & Co., Christina's Fine Clothing, Rabobank on M Street, Wash'n Wag and A Blooming Affair Floral.

-- Sun-Star staff