In the evolution of one's life, there are memorable junctures when one chooses to go in a changed direction, to take a new path. For me, this juncture occurred in early February, 2005, when I said to my friend,now business partner, Daniel: "Our community needs a good dog newspaper." In that moment, both our lives changed and FETCH was born.

FETCH´s debut was June 2005. FETCH evolved in many ways from that first day. Listening to feedback from potential readers and advertisers, we have become inclusive of all pets, and now recognize that our greater community reaches into the city of San Francisco.

As we worked toward making our vision come true, the first thing we learned was that we are part of a true community of "pet people" whose personal and business lives center on, if not revolve around, their companion animals. And those people have not only welcomed the prospect of FETCH, they have supported and nurtured it.

We have many hopes and dreams for FETCH, but we consider FETCH your paper, shaped and informed by you, the diverse community of pet owners who live in the North Bay. So, we invite you to participate: start by telling us what you want FETCH to be. Write letters, send emails, send us your questions. Share your favorite dog scenes, honor your departed pets, contribute to the calendar, support our advertisers and distributors.

We can't wait to learn more about what you would like FETCH to be, so we're kicking things off with a reader survey. We hope that you will surprise and delight us with your suggestions and input and expect it to guide us as we plan FETCH's future. Check it out at www.fetchthepaper.com.

You will notice much of FETCH's focus is on programs and services offered by the agencies in the North Bay. We are fortunate in our community to have innovative and active organizations which serve as role models for shelters and rescue groups around the country. FETCH will consistently bring you news about the programs of these groups as well as ways we all can help them.

I´d like to thank some folks that played special roles in making FETCH a reality. First, our staff: Barbara Mickelson, Pete Alexander, and Mary Beth Blackburn. They came on board and stayed there, providing talent and time. Jude Cameron of Sonoma Valley Publishing has been a great cheerleader and maven of many tips and resources. Special thanks to Laurie Morton and Kerry Bleskan of Portland's Dog Nose News, who provided invaluable inspiration and support. Our circle of friends and family, who brought suppers and went to movies without us...not to mention walking the dogs when we could not tear ourselves away.

Ahhh, the dogs. I told my pup Bennie many times "This is for you," but of course he'd prefer to go for a walk than sit at my feet while I ponder the words on my computer screen. So, much of the honor goes to him, and his best friend Traveler, and Bud, our feline family member. Now the North Bay has a paper for all of us. We hope you and your companion animals like it!