Hello fellow Eastsounders!

In my regular walks through town it feels so good to see our community begin to both return to some version of normalcy while also maintaining unselfish awareness of the ongoing risks we face as a community. As we continue to do, we have struck a beautiful balance between keeping each other safe while simultaneously maintaining the unique, warm culture that makes Orcas so special. We aren’t always perfect (I tried to bite an otter once), but we always find our footing and remember that we are stronger as one. Sniffing around on Crescent Beach the other day, I saw 6 herons fishing alongside a neighbor picking up trash. In town at the market, I saw Jamari greeting everyone with a smile (or pet) while making sure everyone stayed safe while shopping. While getting another lamb shoulder (yum, yum, yum)from the Lum’s at the Farmers’ Market, I rubbed my squished face into the endless beautiful flowers along North Beach road. These are the little things that make this place so special and resilient. The care that we have for our home and the love we have for each other.

I see a lot of scary things going on in the world. People seem angry, scared, and alone sometimes. I get scared too not knowing what tomorrow holds (and because I am very little). That said, I know I can always turn to our community to remind me of the caring and love that is happening right here. This is not an easy time but when I look around at the humans here, I know we can both get through this and we can come out stronger and more united than before.

My face is squished and kind of droopy which presents personal challenges, but one benefit is that people often tell me I look like Winston Churchill. Aside from liking dogs (sorry Rainbow and Lolita), he had a lot to say that has relevance today, particularly on Orcas. One of my favorites is the following; “One always measures friendships by how they show up in bad weather.” During these challenging times, we have indeed showed up for each other, even when our leashes are chafing. That ever-visible truth brings great warmth to my fuzzy fat belly.

If I am elected Mayor, I hope to embody, cultivate and recognize the caring and resolute spirit that thrives here. Caring for our neighbors, basking in sunbeams, celebrating the helpers, lifting those that have fallen, being a friend, and staying calm in the storm is how I aspire to serve you.

I am honored to be running for this position with my fellow animal neighbors and hope that you will support my campaign. Although I am short, stubby, and funny looking, I am mighty with love for this place and all who inhabit it.

Butters, Candidate for Eastsound Mayor

Orcas