text: Jake Moloney, a blackjack dealer at Harrah's, drove by the city animal shelter in Reno every day on his way to work. He was preoccupied on this day with his daughter Irene's fifth birthday four days hence. He had discussed a proper gift with Joan, but neither parent had any idea for anything appropriate. All they could think of were routine toys.
  
  As he waited for a stop light to turn, Jake's eyes fell on the sign "City Pound." His brow wrinkled. I wonder...
  
  When he arrived home that evening, Joan asked, "Any ideas for a present? We've got to do something big. It's her fifth birthday, for crying out loud."
  
  Jake smiled. "How about something very little that would make a big gift?"
  
  "Oh Jake, she's too young for fancy jewelry," Joan objected.
  
  "Not jewelry, a kitten."
  
  Joan frowned. The frown turned to a smile. "And just who would take care of this kitten?"
  
  "Okay, we would, at first. But this would be a great way to teach Irene about responsibility. We could start with showing her that the cat always has to have water, then how to feed the cat... litter stuff, you know, all the chores we did with Tigerpaws before Irene was born."
  
  "Honey, that's a marvelous idea. Do you know someone who's got a kitten to give away?"
  
  "I was thinking we could stop by the pound and pick one up there. You know they don't cost much, and they've been given all the shots... all that stuff. How about you meet me at the pound about four thirty tomorrow. Leave Irene with Mrs. Golter next door."
  
  Joan put her arms around her husband and gave him a hug. "You have just won the most-thoughtful-father-of-the-year award."
  
  "Oh? What's the award?"
  
  Joan grinned. "You'll find out later tonight."