Lake Tahoe Humane Society regrouping after director fired

For 50 years the Lake Tahoe Humane Society has offered services to animals in the South Lake Tahoe community. They are now facing challenges after their Executive Director Niki Congero was fired when allegations of embezzlement arose when their bank called them about irregular activity on the agency's debit card.

The South Lake Tahoe Police Department is investigating those allegations by serving subpoenas, obtaining casino film and researching other facts, something that takes time according to the investigating officer. Congero said she has been advised to not speak to the media at this time and said to go through her attorney, Adam Spicer, who has said he is confident the allegations will be proven false.

"All of us at the Lake Tahoe Humane Society are dedicated to this organization and it's integrity and are taking every step necessary to safe guard the funds that are donated to us," the Lake Tahoe Humane Society Board of Directors said in a statement to South Tahoe Now. "Increased internal controls, checks and balances and oversight have been established and are in place."

No charges have been filed against Congero at this time.

In the meantime the current leadership of the Humane Society is trying to keep everything running as well as planning their 50th anniversary celebration.

Judi Brown, who runs the front office at the Humane Society is now their only employee. Liz Maul, who ran the group's outreach at schools, the hospital and library was let go on April 30. Board President Lorna Lefler has volunteered to take over the My Ready Buddy program as well as taking dogs to visit those staying at the Barton Skilled Nursing Center until they are back on their feet financially.

"It will be a challenge," said Brown.

Spay and Neutering Program

The Humane Society had to suspend their spay and neutering program for low-income residents of South Lake Tahoe for the time being. The Animal Coalition of Tahoe (ACT) is now helping with that and has vouchers for residents out at the El Dorado County Animal Control offices in Meyers, Round Hill Animal Hospital, Alpine Animal Hospital, Sports LTD, and online at www.tahoeanimals.org.

An application, proof of local residency, and $25 check or money order) must be submitted, and a voucher that can be used at local veterinarians will be issued. Details are available at www.tahoeanimals.org or by calling 530-307-3638.

"Thankfully ACT has stepped up with their spay and neutering help," said Brown.

Fundraiser for 50th Anniversary

Plans are still in place for the Human Society's "Paws for Celebration," their 50th anniversary party and dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe inside Harveys Tahoe on Friday, May 12 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. The cost is $60 per person and tickets can be purchased at the Humane Society at 884 Emerald Bay Road in South Lake Tahoe or by calling 530.542.2857. They would like people to buy tickets ahead of time so they can give Hard Rock Cafe a head count. Mike Peron of Lake Tahoe Television will be the MC.

A fun twist on this even is "Spring Me From The Pound!" Community members get the friends, coworkers and neighbors to donate money to get them out of the pound during the anniversary party. Donation sheets can be picked up at the Humane Society which is open Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Call ahead.

The fundraiser will also have a silent auction and they are in need of donated items.

Donations

Brown said a lot of local businesses have stepped up to help them during this time of need. They have held pet food drives, something that is always needed at the Humane Society. She said Barton Health, the Hard Rock Casino and ReMax Realty just had drives recently, bringing the bounty to Brown.

Right after the news broke about Congero's firing a group of middle school students held a car wash to get money for the Humane Society.

"We have appreciated the support over the last 50 years and look forward to the next 50 years," said Brown who has been with them 17 of those years. "We're keeping a positive attitude and encourage people to come in and ask questions if they have any. We are an open book."