The Watauga Humane Society is nearing the final phases
of its capital campaign for a new facility, but that does mot
mean its work level has lessened.
During the annual membership meeting at the end of October, a
new board of directors was elected to spearhead the final phase
of the campaign in addition to managing the resources that supports
the adoption of more than 1,000 rescues annually.
Known as “dog mom” by fellow society members, Lisa Van
Arnam was elected president. The former vice president and co-chair
of the “Fur Ball,” the society’s largest fundraising
event, Arnam was excited to aid the society as it continues to
rescue and protect animals.
“For almost 40 years, the Watauga Humane Society has responded
to animals needs,” Arnam said. “Our paramount goal this
fiscal year is the groundbreaking for our new adoption center.”
Arnam and husband Mark, president of the American Emergency Vehicles
company located in Ashe County, have one daughter, Scout, and
seven dogs. The Arnam family resides in the Todd area.
Current board member Shaun Lundy, local attorney with the firm
Vetro & Lundy, was elected vice president of the board. Lundy
and wife Lyndsey live in Boone with their dog, Chloe.
Susan Dukes was re-elected to the position of secretary. Current
board members Dr. Jan Watson and Rachel Jolly were elected as
treasurer and board member liaison, respectively.
Newly elected board members include Peggy Jessee, Alan Teitleman,
Dr. Kathy Copley, Beth Brock and Barbara Doughton.
Re-elected members of the board include Sarah Gilley and Claudia
Strickland.
Outgoing president Judy Clarke will also remain on the board,
in addition to Lee Jessen and Ben Henderson.
At the meeting, the new board extended a special thank you to
former board members Sandy Kadyk, Dee Dundon and Park Terrell
for their time and dedication in support of the society’s
mission.
Executive director Janet Pepin expressed her thanks during the
meeting to all who continue to volunteer their time and provide
financial support to the important work of the Watauga Humane
Society.
“Our 40th anniversary in 2009 provides us with an opportunity
to celebrate everyone’s contributions over the years to the
care and wellbeing of the homeless animals,” Pepin said.
“It also provides us with the opportunity to begin a new
era, complete with a state-of-the-art animal facility and new
programs that will meet the needs of our community for years to
come.”
In addition to the meeting, the Watauga Humane Society worked
with Yonahlossee Racquet Club to host the second annual Critter
Calcutta.
The tennis benefit, a mixed doubles tournament on clay courts,
was coordinated with Yonahlossee head tennis pro Bob Lake and
assistant pro Matt Bacon.
Winners of the two divisions were Christina Howe, Kathy Ticich,
Carol Almond and Cathy Heninger.
The racquet club donated more than $7,500 to support the new facility
capital campaign.
To learn more about the society or to donate to the capital campaign,
call (828) 264-7865 or visit www.wataugahumanesociety.org.
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