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Viral ‘Trashed Panda’ Spurs Cocktails and Fundraising After Liquor Store Break-In

Sales of county-branded merchandise are nearing $100,000 to support the local animal shelter.

Overview

  • On Nov. 29, a raccoon broke into a Virginia ABC store in Ashland, drank from multiple bottles, and was found passed out in the bathroom.
  • Virginia ABC released full surveillance footage showing the animal sampling liquor, staggering through aisles, and leaving broken bottles.
  • Hanover County officials said the raccoon showed no injuries and was released back into the wild after sobering up.
  • The agency rolled out three themed recipes — Rye Rascal Sour, Trash Panda Old Fashioned, and Midnight Gin Fizz — on its website.
  • A county merch drive featuring “Trashed Panda” designs is nearing $100,000 for the local shelter, as the story fuels promotions by Spirited Virginia and an SNL impersonation by Sarah Sherman.