Step into a Tacoma bar with Jack the Bear, the beer-drinking, 800-pound celebrity of the 1800s, whose larger-than-life story sets the stage for a crucial message. This episode journeys from Jack's amusing antics to the founding of the Tacoma Humane Society and its current, urgent crisis. Today, the Society faces an overwhelming influx of cats, stretching its resources to the breaking point. By exploring Tacoma's unique animal welfare history, we aim to spotlight the critical work of the Tacoma Humane Society and rally our community to action. Listen, learn, and discover how you can make a difference through donations, fostering, or volunteering. Join us in turning this tale of a legendary bear into tangible support for animals in need right now. More at www.rainydayrabbitholes.com https://www.thehumanesociety.org/ways-to-give/ Shea will be participating in the Seattle Walk To End Alzheimer's. Will you help? https://act.alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=18005&pg=team&team_id=896308 Show Notes: • Introduction to Jack the Bear • The Founding of Tacoma Humane Society (1888) • Jack's impact on Tacoma's animal welfare awareness • Evolution of the Tacoma Humane Society (1888-present) • Current Crisis at Tacoma Humane Society • How listeners can help • Reflecting on Tacoma's unique animal welfare journey • Resources for more information on Tacoma Humane Society and its programs