Whitney Shroyerand Letitia Walkeradopted their first sock monkey in 1996 and an obsession was born. With the arrival of Benny Hathaway, the monkeys found their voice, and tales of sock monkey exploits began publication in a local humor paper, The Asheville Disclaimer. Michael Traisteris a professional photographer whose subjects previously included musicians for several labels and for magazines like Magnetand Spin.