Nothing could be finer, than to walk a dog from Carolina, in the morning…

Following a serious slush event this past Saturday, it seemed appropriate that this week’s “Person of the Week” should be a member of a local road crew, entrusted with clearing the streets of all the overnight nastiness before the chilling arrival of the big freeze on Sunday. Fortunately for those needing to be out on the roads, they were cleared well before 10:00 am. With nary a snow plow in sight, there went my plan!

Contemplating another type of person who might be outside on a dismal, messy, cold morning, it dawned on me: animal shelter volunteer! Whatever the weather, no matter the day, this person checks in to visit the shelter dogs and take them on their morning constitutionals. Person of the week – definitely!

Meet Ed Winters, a resident of Washington Townhip and a four-year volunteer at Common Sense for Animals in Stewartsville. He also coordinates the roster of volunteers, consisting of five constants and others who stop by when they can. He became involved at a friend’s urging who noted they desperately needed help at the animal shelter. Ed acknowledges the urgency still exists, with about 30 dogs of all ages and breeds currently in the shelter’s care. Nearly 90% of these are rescues from the South, primarily a result of the lack of neuter/spay laws. Ed and his wife, Maria, also a volunteer, have adopted two wonderful dogs in two years from CSA.

If interested in volunteering by walking, socializing, and training the many furry residents awaiting adoption, please contact Ed Winters at 908-303-2428. There is an informal orientation prior to working with the dogs.

Ed is shown here on an enjoyable jaunt with Max, a three year old from the South, who’s been at the shelter for six months.

When it comes to the people and happenings of Warren County, you can count on award winning photographer Cathy Miller to be there to record the moment.