A pint-sized Pomeranian known as “Gentleman Norman" is far more than just a furry face. He has “co-authored” the go-to guide for the well-bred man. Owner and constant companion Laura Martella of Rancho Santa Fe has a serious goal: helping to raise funds to fight Alzheimer’s, the disease that claimed her mother after a seven-year battle.
During September, Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, Martella is honoring her mother’s memory in hopes, eventually, of finding a cure for the devastating disease that affects one in eight Americans over the age of 65, as well as those who care for them.
In the charming picture book How to be a Man, Gentleman Norman, who prefers “golf shirts, cashmere sweaters, and the occasional jacket,” offers tips on wardrobe and grooming. “Do not use too much product,” he cautions. “It is not a good look!” And, yes, he insists: “Real men wear pink” (as in a Ralph Lauren polo shirt). There’s also advice on etiquette, and how to woo a woman. Have a jeweler and florist on speed dial, he suggests, and never answer the question: “Does this make my butt look big?”
Gentleman Norman, who is on Facebook and Twitter, will be “paw-tographing” the book during Fashion’s Night Out at Neiman Marcus Fashion Valley on September 6, from 6-9 pm, and at Warwick’s in La Jolla on September 9, from 12-2 pm. The book also is available at Neiman-Marcus and area boutiques such as Tucci, Bon Bon, and Matti D. A portion of book sales benefit the San Diego/Imperial Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. (www.gentlemannorman.com) ANDREA NAVERSEN
