Sunday, October 2nd, animal lovers gathered at the Florida Agricultural Museum’s Caldwell Barn for a
“Barn chic” gala to celebrate forty years of service to pets and people that Flagler Humane Society has
given.

The evening began with a moment of silence to honor those other communities who were more
seriously affected by Hurricane Ian. The Flagler Youth Orchestra provided music that truly gave the
event a high class feel. The art exhibit by the Colored Pencil Society of America DC117 added to the
high class feel. Several attendees purchased amazing works of art benefitting the animals. Tables
were adorned with beautiful centerpieces provided by Team Murphy.

Executive Director Amy Carotenuto spoke about the community support that Hanneka Frederick had
starting in the late 1970’s when she first had her vision to start an animal shelter. At that time lost
animals would be taken all the way to Daytona Beach because there was no local facility. That community support has continued throughout our 40 years, from the puppy mill to the wildfires, to building construction and a pandemic.

A table full of former staff and volunteers who were active in the early days was recognized. A donation check was presented by Shelly Edmonson of The Flagler County Tax Collector’s office, showing community support through their program of having donation jars at their counter. Special guest speaker, Representative Paul Renner who is slated to become House Speaker this coming session spoke of the animal protection laws that had been passed over the last few years. He spoke of “Ponce’s Law” and the recent passage of laws allowing veterinarians to report animal cruelty to law enforcement and a new law that allows that domestic violence protection orders can include family pets. He spoke of environmental issues affecting animals and the hope of a Florida Wildlife Corridor.

The evening’s sponsors, SouthState Bank, Tom Gibb’s Chevrolet, Allied Financial Partners and the FHS Board of Directors were thanked.
Our Platinum Sponsor was The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Dr. Jen Hobgood who oversees ASPCA’s legislative initiatives in Florida, Georgia, South & North Carolina spoke of her work on animal welfare laws. She is currently championing efforts on veterinary telemedicine and other means to expand access to veterinary care for pet owners who might not be able to provide for their pets.

Hanneke Jevons, daughter of founder Hanneke Frederick spoke last and brought tears to everyone’s eyes when she said “My mother is looking down on us and thinking “Look what I accomplished” Hanneke feels that her mother would be very proud of the work that the shelter continues to do. We would like to thank all of those who were a part of the celebration. If you missed it, we are planning a small open house Sunday, October 23 rd at the shelter. Come join us for cake and a champaign toast. What could be better than that?

Amy Wade-Carotenuto is the Executive Director at Flagler Humane Society and can be reached at acarotenuto@flaglerhumanesociety.org. Flagler Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) not-for- profit organization founded in 1980. For more information go to www.flaglerhumanesociety.org