Still looking for new shelter director – HSWC holds fundraiser at FR Moose Lodge Nov. 11

The Julia Wagner Animal Shelter is open for business as usual, with a fundraiser scheduled TODAY, Saturday Nov. 11, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the FR Moose Lodge off John Marshall Highway. Royal Examiner File Photo

The hunt goes on for a new executive director for the Julia Wagner Animal Shelter in Front Royal, according to the fall issue of “Shelter Tales,” newsletter published by the Humane Society of Warren County.

This issue chronicles the last three months or so of the six year tenure of Lavenda Denney whose accomplishments are well known and admired, including the earned status as a “no-kill” shelter and a much-improved financial situation following years or operating in the red. A plaque in her honor recognizes her service 2011- 2017 and the “no-kill” status achieved in 2015.

Meanwhile, bookkeeper Lea Frazier handles the reins as interim exec.

Reporting on the last nine months of Denney’s tenure, the shelter reported 1,101 admissions of which 589 were cats, 466 dogs, and 46 “others”. The “live release” rate reached 95%.

Total income to date this year is $456,916, including $228,743 from Warren County. Expenses, including animal care ($392,102), totals $484,057. The average per day cost of each animal is $393.

In the year to date, $49,792 came from fundraisers, the next of which is the “Tales & Ales” cash party and silent auction at the Moose Lodge Saturday, Nov. 11, starting at 5:30 p.m. Tickets cost $35 and there’s a grand prize offered of $1,000.

An attractive seasonal fundraiser involves a 2018 calendar which features 12 winners of the annual Pinup Paws photo contest. The calendars are already on sale at the  shelter: 1245 Progress Drive, Front Royal,22630.

Tammy Darr, HSWC president, said in a note to society members: “The board of directors is dedicated to finding a qualified executive director to continue our current mission and improve it even more in the future.”