|
The HSLC began last year working to raise funding for
a new isolation unit specifically for dogs. Previously dogs and cats
had shared a unit which was not the best case scenario. With the new
addition, dogs will be in one location and cats in another as they
go through their 10-day guarantee.
The afternoon began with a large group of HSLC board
members, volunteers, and members of the community gathering inside
the front lobby of the shelter. HSLC shelter director Lynnette Maske
led a brief program before snipping the ribbon on the new isolation
area with assistance from board member and project overseer, Jeff
Short.
Maske began by acknowledging the board members on
hand, then spoke briefly about the construction project. She said
that the project had broken ground on May 11th, and in a span of six
months had been completed. She said that the room that had
previously been used for isolation for dogs and cats combined was
now just for cats. She said this was a very positive change for the
wellbeing of the animals and would also expand the number of
animals, both dogs and cats that the shelter could take in.
Maske acknowledged all those that were in the room
from local government including Lincoln Mayor Trcy Welch, Alderman
Kevin Bateman, Alderwoman Robin McClallen, City Clerk Peggy Bateman
and City Treasurer Chuck Conzo.
She also noted that the HSLC was pleased to have Senator Sally
Turner join in the celebration.
Turner was asked to say a few words. She began by
saying she had visited the shelter last week and had already seen
the new addition which was very nice. She said that as had been
mentioned by Jeff Short deserved a great deal of credit for the
completion of the project. She added that Representative Dr. Bill
Hauter had wanted to attend but had to do a rotation in the
emergency department at his hospital. Haueter had asked that Turner
share his regrets at being unable to attend, and congratulate the
HSLC on their achievement.
[to top of second column]
 |
Maske asked that Short come forward and speak about
the project. Short said that to start there were a lot of other
people involved that needed to be acknowledged and thanked. He named
off Fitzpatrick Plumbing, Lincoln heating & Cooling, Concept Art for
the concrete work, and Clint Pollick. Short said that the job had
taken six month, but had also been slowed just a bit by the strike
at Ronoake Concrete in Lincoln.
There are four 4’ by 7’ rooms for dog isolation.
There is a fifth room that is right now set up for bathing and
grooming, but can be used as an isolation if needed. He said that it
was a good expansion and had been much needed for the shelter. He
said that it would expand the shelter’s ability to take in and adopt
out animals. The number of animals us for adoption is growing and
the added capacity for intake is necessary.
After Short completed his talk, Maske asked that
Pastor Keith Wilkerson deliver a blessing and prayer over the
facility.
Maske then acknowledged all the volunteers who were
in the building and noted that without the hours of service given to
the shelter, the work of the HSLC would not be possible.
Mayor Welch was also called upon to say a few words.
He said first that as mayor, he was glad to see this organization
with people who are compassionate for animals and give their time to
make it possible. He said that there is a great need for caring for
animals as they transition out of one home and to a new hopefully
forever home. He said he wanted to thank the HSLC for their hard
work and congratulate them on the completion of this much needed
expansion.
Following the cut, tours of the new addition were led by Short and
Maske. Guests were encouraged to visit the dogs in the back area and
also stop in the three large cat rooms just off the lobby.
Refreshments were provided for all the guests.
[Nila Smith]
 |
