The Central Pennsylvania Humane Society has officially opened its new “Andy Jubelirer Observation Center” with a ribbon-cutting ceremony conducted by the Blair County Chamber of Commerce.
The 700-square foot facility was designed to hold all in-coming animals until they are evaluated for potential health or behavior problems.
According to CPHS officials, State Senator Robert Jubelirer was instrumental in helping provide much of the funding for the project, which came from a combination of grant money from the Harrisburg-based Burgess-McCormick Foundation and private donations in memory of the senator\’s late son, Andrew.
In addition, a grant from the Connecticut-based Eleanor Baker Patterson Trust Fund contributed to the project as well as CPHS building funds.
“Andy was the inspiration for the center,” said CPHS Executive Director Dave Hopkins. “He spent many, many selfless hours of his life volunteering here at the shelter and had a great love for our animals.”
The center features room to house incoming stray and surrendered cats and dogs; private office space where shelter employees process the animals; and an office for CPHS humane officers. A special epoxy floor was installed to help cut down on the spread of germs and make cleaning more efficient for the staff. Holding cages in the center are available for “sponsoring” by private individuals and businesses.
The new space was designed by Hollidaysburg Architect Jim Kasun and constructed by builder Don Delozier.
