By CHERYL SHUMWAY
North Country This Week

POTSDAM -- Over 100 people attended a groundbreaking and dedication ceremony Sunday for the planned 1,600 square foot expansion of the Potsdam Humane Society animal shelter, 17 Madrid Ave.

The annex is being named in honor of SPC Chad Fuller of Potsdam, an avid animal shelter volunteer who was killed while serving in Afghanistan in 2003.

His father, Gene Burnham, along with community leaders and humane society Pres. Betty Wolf, threw kitty litter into the air in a symbolic ground-breaking.

“Chad brought home many animals from this shelter whom lived long and happy lives,” said Burnham. “He would be very grateful to see that this new building will allow us as a community to provide a better life for those animals in need.”

The dedication to Fuller included a 21 gun salute and taps, and participation from soldiers of the Fort Drum 10th Mountain Division.

Funded by a $180,000 grant from the state Department of Agriculture and Markets, the animal shelter annex will provide a year-round exercise and training area for pets, include improvements to support more animal care and increase space for veterinary services.

Grant writer Bill Wolf emceed the outdoor event, braving the cold wearing a kilt. Wolf is New York Commander of Scottish-American Military Society and Winthrop resident.

“Today is the day to remember Chad Fuller and all the other soldiers who have served in our armed services,” Wolf said.

Wolf also gave credit to the volunteers, board members and staff that made this expansion possible.

Staff members recognized were Director Alysia Maynard, Bonnie Peryer, Jenn Fountain, Jess Doty, Carol Kent, Zack Samelski, George Rose, Michelle Frew, and Jade Sullivan.

Humane society board member Tracy Adle said the shelter delivers services to 1,200 dogs and cats each year, successfully finding homes to 97 percent of the rescued animals last year. “Community support has been huge for our organization,” she said.

Town Supervisor Ann Carvill was among the speakers. “It’s a privilege to be part of this event that honors fallen soldier Chad Fuller,” she said.

Following the ceremony, Fuller’s family was also presented with a special Honor and Remember flag to memorialize Chad’s memory at the American Legion.