T is for Thomas.

He was named Thomas when he was born 40-some years ago. Since then, he has chosen other names. I first heard about him referred to only as "Dog Man" when several people called the newspaper asking if we knew anything about "the man with all the dogs living in the abandoned house." That was three years ago. When I met him, he told me his name was Jose y de lapin Chipuente (and a few other words). Later he became Jose Beijing. Today he is known as (and legally became) Avery Luke2:12GivingtheglorytoGod Zing.
He lives in an old, abandoned farmhouse with five dogs - and because he has shelter and now friends in this area does not say he is homeless. He involves himself in local issues. Here he is at a candidates forum for an upcoming special election, listening as he often does, meditatively, eyes closed.

The full photo is here:



His home: