'The little guy really is a star': Uno creates a stir at News-Democrat

Some of you may be getting a little tired of Uno by now.

I know I groaned when the Little Beagle That Could showed up on the front page of our newspaper -- again -- Tuesday.

But then Uno dropped by the News-Democrat on Tuesday morning to pick up some copies of the paper with his White House picture on the front page, and I discovered what everyone else is talking about. The little guy really is a star -- packed full of charisma.

I mean, we haven't been that excited up here at the newspaper since Jed Clampett stopped by some years ago. Buddy Ebsen, who grew up in Belleville, had everyone buzzing and coming up to meet him.

Unlike Uno, we didn't scratch Buddy behind the ears and marvel at his soft coat.

Before you could say "Holy cow. It's Uno!" the dog was surrounded by admirers. Everything came to a stop for a few minutes while people crowded around the champion dog, bent to pet him and posed for pictures.

Uno was wearing the collar and leash given to him on Monday by President Bush.

As soon as I came into the newsroom and said "Uno is in the lobby," the place cleared out. I can really clear a room.

The winner of the Best of Show at the 132nd Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in February in New York City causes a stir no matter where he goes.

Uno toured our building, spending some time in the Publisher Jay Tebbe's office, sitting in his chair and taking over his desk, baying at people. Several wags noted that the talkative beagle was doing much the same job as the publisher. Please note that I, however, was not among them.

People just went silly. Well, except for a few people, who are dedicated cat lovers and aren't impressed by any dog. I won't name names or give an "Answer, Man" about who that might have been.

The bouncy little dog made everybody happy. There was lots of laughter, and everyone was smiling.

I think anybody, or anything, that can spread that kind of joy deserves any press he might get.

Wally Spiers' column runs five days a week. Have a column idea? Call Wally at 239-2506 or 800-642-3878; or e-mail: wspiers@bnd.com