Well, Norman is famous in Jacksonville, anyway. Our local newspaper here in Jacksonville decided to do a story on rescue and foster families for homeless pets.

Unfortunately, their timing was not the best, as it was just after the Ellen Degeneres story broke. Whether you agree (or disagree) with Ms. Degeneres, or the rescue group isn't important to me (I will delete any comments that refer to either viewpoint), the newspaper had problems getting foster homes willing to talk with them about rescue. They were certain they were going to be "Degeneres-d", or painted in a poor light. No one could believe that the intention was actually to shine some light on the plight of the homeless animals who's only resource is their foster home and rescue.

Enter my friend Norman and his foster mommy. They agreed to talk with the reporter about the needs of the homeless animals in rescue. And the result was, I think, a very nice article. My personal preference would have been for the story to concentrate more on the foster homes than on the rescue, but you take what you can get! Of course, my opinion is colored by the fact that I still believe the foster home is the single most important element of any rescue program. Especially those willing to undertake the long term foster of the animals that are no longer "young and desirable" (in other words, most rescued dachshunds).

In any event, Norman got his picture in the paper and first line mention in the story. And as a side bonus, Norman was actually adopted on the day before the story ran! His new family loves him and by all accounts, he's doing wonderfully with his new (canine) brothers.

If you're interested in reading the story, it's at http://www.jacksonville.com/tu-online/stories/010708/met_232105556.shtml

Benny