Pawliticians Hope to be Reigning Cat or Dog

— from Susan Anderson —

Four canines and a feline are contending for Honorary Mayor of Eastsound this year. Current leader of the pack, Jack, is highly popular for his “Visionary” slogan; Morgan’s supporters say they like his youthful enthusiasm; Phoebe has already sewed up the “under 5” vote and trailing canine, Missy, says her early hard life has prepared her to meet the challenge and expects to win. Luna, the only feline in the race, is a close 2nd in the polls but doesn’t seem to care. “What will be, will be.”

The mayoral race is an annual fundraiser sponsored by and benefiting Children’s House. Voting is open to both islanders and visitors, who “buy” candidates into office by placing as many votes as they want at area polling locations, the Farmer’s Market or online via oich.org. Each vote benefits the toddler and preschool children of Children’s House. The race concludes 2 PM, July 5.

A live tally of current votes and additional details on the slate of five candidates can be found at orcasislandmayor.wordpress.com. A single-sheet Voter’s Guide can be downloaded via oich.org, as well.

Here’s a overview of the candidates.

Candidate: Jack
Sponsor: Jillery
Owner/Manager: Jill and Roger Curtiss
Campaign Slogan: “Back Jack. A Blind Visionary”
Top Issues: Water bowls for all, green spaces and crossing signs
Dog Scoop: Jack is a Golden Retriever who lost his sight more than a year ago but says it has not diminished his vision for Eastsound. He supports growth in residential and commercial spaces with attention to maintaining green spaces and safe intersections. (Jack can personally attest to the need for a Pedestrian Crossing sign on Main St. at the Prune Alley intersection.) He strives to be a leader (or a heeler) but not a follower.
Unique Qualities: Patience and a forgiving heart. “I have a special relationship with children and knowing their intentions are good, I grant them latitude in their exuberance when they approach me.”

Candidate: Luna
Sponsor: Studio Deon/HairStream
Manager: Annette Deon
Top Issues: Quality downtime and extended lap times
Cat Scoop: With obvious Independent leanings, Luna is the only feline in the race. Born and raised on Orcas, she says she best understands the challenges facing islanders and believes quality downtime allows for greater appreciation of each other. “We all need to take the time to skip through grass chasing butterflies, jump into our owner’s laps and, in general, nap more in the sun. These are times of deep thought and meditation — which are important to solving real community issues.”
Unique Quality: Nine (plus) lives. “While I’ve experienced a fair share of adversity in my life, I always land on my feet.”

Candidate: Missy
Sponsor: KeyBank
Manager: Harold and Debbie Hurne
Top Issues: Fire safety training; community outreach
The Dog Scoop: After an early life on the streets of Kirkland, Wa., the Pomeranian says she gained valuable lessons that have deepened her compassion of others and appreciation for life on Orcas. “I will work towards keeping our beautiful, green Island a SAFE place for all.”
Unique Qualities: Faithful, loving and steady. “I’m quiet, a trait that makes me a good listener to people on the campaign trail, rambunctious enough to make a difference and a steady friendly pup who likes routines but also exploring my world always looking forward to new adventures!”

Candidate: Morgan
Sponsor: Chimayo/Sazio
Manager: Janine Frizzell and Chad Chandler
Top Issues: Children, GMOs and parks
The Dog Scoop: A Boston-Terrier/Pug (Bugg), Morgan’s youthful enthusiasm for Orcas is evident in all his campaigning. He believes early childhood education is vital. “Children need to explore the world just as I do.” He barks out against GMOs and yips for our green spaces. Morgan is a proponent of sustainability and urges his constituents to support our local Co-op, farms and restaurants.
Unique Quality: Nose. “It’s nice and big and can smell trouble, fear or peanut butter from miles away.”
Candidate: Phoebe
Sponsor: Orcas Island Children’s House
Owner/Manager: “Teacher” Mary Carol and Fred Britt
Top Issues: Water bowls for all, green spaces and crossing signs
Dog Scoop: Phoebe, predominately Lhasa Apso, is endorsed by the 2013 Beagalitarian candidate Jinger and supported heavily by the Preschool-age demographic. Young and energetic, Phoebe understands the importance of kid-friendly dogs on Orcas. “If you elect me Mayor I will continue to meet and greet new children at school and in town!”
Unique Qualities: Mellow island pace and temperament. “I used to be a car chaser, and now I can just let them pass by. I am much more interested in the people and pets that surround me! I spend a lot of time with little kids who smother me with love.”