Humane Society 70th anniversary celebrated at Julia Wagner Animal Shelter Saturday April 1

The smell of freedom – Nala stretches toward the sky during Saturday’s festivities under watchful eye of Dog Team Leader Kayla Wines. Photos/Roger Bianchini

No, it’s not an April Fool joke – the Humane Society of Warren County really is 70 years old on Saturday, April 1, and there’ll be a big birthday bash with cake and balloons for the people, and a celebration of a new habitat for the dogs. The events are scheduled from noon until 2 p.m. at the Julia Wagner animal shelter in the Happy Creek Technology Park, 1245 Progress Drive.

Despite rain and unseasonable cold, staff and volunteers were busy Friday preparing for the event while at the same time wishing for a warmer, sunny day – which was in the forecast.

Neville Barr ponders taking a companion back for his 2 cats at home in England.

Among Saturday’s visitors to the shelter likely will be those running for election to the HSWC board at the April 11 annual meeting:

Melanie Catron, a 6th grade math teacher; Julie Covert, a Wells Fargo financial advisor; and Tammy Williams who works at Sysco.

Jennifer Condon is running for re-election.

Departing board members are Amy Thurman, Martha Steane, and Virginia McKinnon.

Meanwhile, Kayla Wines has been named the shelter’s new canine team leader, succeeding Courtenay Thompson.

Also on hand for the celebration will be HSWC’s only international member, Neville Barr, visiting Front Royal for the occasion from his home in the United Kingdom. Barr, a lifetime cat lover and dedicated volunteer in England, also plans to be at his first HSWC membership meeting at Joe’s Steakhouse on April 11.

Wagner Shelter Dog Team Leader Kayla Wines and recent arrival Blue greet visitors Saturday.