Campaign Update
WOW! I have learned so much since I announced my candidacy two weeks ago. First, I learned that you are not supposed to look directly into the camera during photo shoots. One needs to look off into the distance, which makes you look like a visionary and a strong leader.
The next thing is you need is to run for a particular seat on a legislative body, like the City Council. I thought “MOUF FOR MAYOR” sounded great so I modified my sign. I even had a slogan: “Mouf for Mayor. Better than a tailor. I support sailors, and you won’t need a bailor.” No offense meant to the tailors in town, it just rhymed. Unfortunately, I was told that the mayor’s office was not up for election, and there was no chance for a write- in opportunity. I was a little bummed. But, looking on the bright side, I already have my sign for 2026.
The next issue I ran into was the “constituencies” problem. Many of you know my view of squirrels, and, while my values have stayed the same, I have changed my position on these cute furry creatures that contribute so much to the quality of life we all enjoy on the island. I want every squirrel to know I appreciate the value (and votes) you bring to the table, and I plan on reaching across the street to work in a bipartisan way to recognize your contribution to the charm you bring to Alameda’s tree-lined streets. I am planning on contacting the City and asking for a resolution recognizing October as Squirrel Month. Yes, it is a real thing.
I was really surprised to learn that candidates need to get endorsements from elected officials, important people in the community, and organizations. I found out that I was way behind in trying to secure endorsements from organizations like the Alameda Firefighters Association and the Alameda Police Officers Association. Apparently, the Dalmatians have had the firefighter’s endorsement locked up for many years. Heck, that breed is even known as the “firehouse dog.”
According to Wikipedia, “Dalmatians are known for working with firefighters for their role as firefighting apparatus escorts and firehouse dogs. Since Dalmatians and horses are very compatible, the dogs were easily trained to run in front of the carriages to help clear the path and quickly guide the horses and firefighters to the fires.”
Once the fire apparatus became motorized, Dalmatians transitioned to the cushy mascot role. Talk about luck!
I might have had a better chance with the Police Officers Association because of their long association with my breed. As early as 1910, German Shepherds were used by police departments in the United States. In Glen Ridge Borough in New Jersey, a German Shepherd and Australian Shepherd accompanied officers on walking patrols. Today, they do so much more from drug detection, to finding lost human companions, and running into dark warehouses to get bad guys. Hey APD, do we have any shepherds on the force?? Would love to see a picture. Also, do they need any equipment like bulletproof vests?
So, while I won’t be able to hold any elected office in 2024, my efforts were not in vain. A bunch of folks asked for my campaign sign. Tobi and Beverly Woo, Ingo and Jack along with Karen & Dan Platt, and of course the famous pup reporter, Li’l Dude all contributed $50 each to the Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter Starfish Fund. Money from this fund goes to pay for emergency vet bills for animals with serious medical needs like injuries or disease. Please consider making your own donation to FAAS and specify the Starfish Fund.
While I won’t be winning any elections on November 5, I do want to thank all my readers over at Nextdoor Alameda for making the Bear’s-Eye View of Alameda a “FAVE” in 2024.
Keeping with the election theme, I wanted to acknowledge another constituency that is near and dear to my heart, and that group is cats and their human companions. I guess there is a clowder of human companions that are supporting the Harris/Walz effort because I see plenty of signs on my walks.
Under the heading of candidates (or their supporters) not understanding rules, one of the folks running for EBMUD 5 should know better than to put signs up on public property.
Finally, I want to encourage everyone to get registered and vote. We live in a representative democracy, and your vote is the only way to let elected officials know that they are doing a good job. Conversely, if you don’t like the way they are voting, then cast your vote for someone who better reflects your views and values.
Next week will be the big Halloween report… and my Sherlock Bones costume reveal.
Until then, VOTE!
💀🎃👿👹👺🤡
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/. Unless otherwise specified, all photos by Jeff Cambra.
