As reported in the Alameda Post, our local animal shelter – FAAS (Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter), along with Oakland and Hayward shelters, came to the rescue of 41 cats that were part of an animal hoarding case earlier this month. With the Alameda shelter already full, and resources stretched to the breaking point, there was a great need—and no time to waste—to get large quantities of critical supplies to FAAS quickly.
Recognizing that it might take weeks to get enough litter pans, towels, and dishes for food and water over to the shelter, I felt compelled to take immediate and decisive action to help. We (well, actually my human companion) jumped on the computer and ordered the essential supplies to cover the most pressing needs and… Presto! Supplies started coming to the house. Unfortunately, I was not able to assist in the delivery of the litter pans and water bowls, because my HC has this little sports car. However, my heart was with him.
I did help by testing out the towels on one of my walks to be sure they would be up to the job. I am indebted to FAAS since they took care of me for more than seven months until I got this reporter gig. I am so grateful for the opportunity to help them out at such a critical time. There are still so many immediate needs: they can use either financial donations via the website or you can drop off cash, checks, or gift cards from local businesses like See Spot Run at 1320 Park Street, Petco at 2310 South Shore Center, or Pet Food Express at 2661 Blanding Avenue. Gift cards from Chewy and Amazon are also welcome.
If you can help by fostering any of the many cats that are at the shelter, that will free up some space and lighten the load on the committed staff whose job it is to care for these animals.
Last week, I covered the Alameda Hotel which prompted Myrna van Lunteren to send me a photo taken at the Hotel way back in 1938 or 39 at an occasion celebrating the World’s Amateur Softball Championship. Photo courtesy of the Alameda Museum.
I will end this week’s report with an update on the edible garden going on at my house. The Leaning Tower of Tomato is now over eight feet tall and just about as wide. My HC enjoyed the first harvest from this rogue plant. They were delicious, but he doesn’t know what variety they are. Do you have any ideas?
Blackberries, cherry tomatoes, and both the basil and the dill are doing well.
I enjoyed the pan-fried Shishito Peppers with gin and agave appetizer my HC fried up earlier this week.
Please don’t forget to help out FAAS in any way you can.
Mouf, Roving Reporter
Bear’s-Eye View of Alameda
Mouf and his human companion can be reached via [email protected]. Their stories are collected at AlamedaPost.com/Jeff-Cambra/. All photos and videos by Jeff Cambra.
