PRESIDENT’S REPORT LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT BY SUELLEN CRETTOL
A night of fun, food, and fellowship was held January 25 to take the opportunity to recognize our staff and volunteers. Laughing Dog Brewing graciously opened their doors for a great location and Jalapenos catered a delicious meal. This was a time for the Board of Directors to express their appreciation for the dedicated staff of the Shelter and the Thrift Store along with the many volunteers who provide the loving care which the animals receive on a daily basis. Our hats are off to Mandy Evans, Executive Director, Ryan Thrailkill, Shelter manager, and Christy Sythe, Thrift Store manager, who so capably lead the staff and volunteers each day. For those who were not able to attend, you missed the great debut of the Board singing “Dashing through the halls!”. However, most of us were told to be sure and “keep our day jobs”. We are so blessed to have such a spacious and modern building in which to house our animals and thrift store, but we can’t lose sight of the fact that it takes a lot to keep it going. For those who cannot volunteer their time, each and every dollar given by you, the dedicated supporters, adds up to “big bucks” which helps to keep us in the black. Our Annual Meeting will be coming up on April 24 at 5:30 p.m. Plan now to attend this important aspect of our Shelter. Don’t forget to renew your membership before the meeting. If you are not a member, please join before March 24 in order to place a vote for our new board members. It is the time to elect the Board of Directors for the coming year and hear a review of what has taken place in the past year. Adopting out the animals is our primary goal, as no one likes to be in a cage for any length of time. Our staff works continually to match the cats and dogs with the right owner. Help them out by always being alert to those around you who might be candidates for adopting a dog. Let them know about our Shelter and the wonderful pets just waiting for a good home. Spring is just around the corner and many of our activities begin from Yappy Hours to Fourth of July parade; from dog Fun(d) raisers to luncheons and the list goes on. Stay tuned and watch for details on these exciting events. Your support is ALWAYS appreciated. n
Challenges Met Head On By Mandy Evans
Last year revealed a marked increase over 2010 in the number of animals who needed our assistance. A challenging economy contributed to an increase in owner surrenders and strays. Our thrift store, which normally brings in approx 60% of our revenue, saw a hit as well, a hit that was felt throughout the second hand community. Because of you and your support, we met the challenge head on. General contributions, whether through membership, events or donations, increased in 2011 to help offset our thrift store deficit. More people began to give, volunteer and talk about the work we are doing to improve the lives of the shelter and community animals. Our animal intake went up from 2010, but so did our adoptions. 1400 dogs and cats entered the shelter and 1383 found new homes or their lost families. We spayed or neutered 786 animals before adoption. This past year, your generosity has directly impacted the lives of over 1600 animals during their time of greatest need- with a ripple effect extending to the families of those who love them. Don’t underestimate the impact your dollar, donation of gently used goods or your time can make on our organization. Your stewardship, contributions and guidance have helped us evolve year to year and will continue to move us toward a brighter future. With your support we will continue to assist animals with their basic needs; a roof over their head, food and water in their bellies and loving companionship. With sincere appreciation. Mandy n
Abe, Big Black Dog at PAS- don’t overlook him.
Annual Meeting Notice: You are hereby notified that the annual meeting of Friends of the Shelter (DBA Panhandle Animal Shelter) will be held at 5:30 PM, Tuesday, April 24, 2012 at PAS, 870 Kootenai Cut-off Road, Ponderay. To assist you in evaluating the director candidates, the Nominating Committee will be accepting questions from the membership. Questions must be submitted in writing, limited to 3 per candidate. Questions may be emailed, mailed or dropped at the shelter. For emails, please send to Mandy Evans mandy@pasidaho.org for referral to the Nominating Committee. Questions must be received no later than April 10, 2012. The candidates’ answers will be posted on our website at www.pasidaho.org and will be posted on the wall at the shelter. 2