First canine mayor helps raise over $20,000

Most electoral races are dog-eat-dog, but the inaugural canine mayor election in Fallbrook involved lots of smiles and wagging tails. Vince Ross Village Square was full of music, fun and dog loving folk as they waited for the winning candidate to be announced on May 13.

Miss Fallbrook and her court, in addition to campaign managers and fans of each candidate, stood waiting for the announcement to be made. The Midili Brothers Band played classic rock as everyone gathered to celebrate the inaugural event. Doggie treats and human clothing were available for purchase at the event, and folks of all ages were able to meet all of the candidates, some of which dressed up for the special event.

Candidates were able to register with the Fallbrook Animal Sanctuary, and voting started on April 15, finishing May 11. Votes were taken on the Animal Sanctuary's website and on Paypal, with each vote costing one dollar. Voters could vote as many times as they liked, for as many candidates as they liked.

While the 17 candidates were of all sizes, shapes, breeds and temperaments, their end goal was the same − to raise much-needed funds for the Fallbrook Animal Sanctuary.

According to event coordinator Christine Shurow, the fundraiser successfully raised approximately $20,006 at the time of the event, and funds were still being counted. She thanked all of the candidates, their managers and supporters for their help.

Quintin Marr was named Fallbrook's first canine mayor, having raised $2,423 in votes. His new role includes a one-year term in office, an official mayoral collar, a medal and framed certificate, as well as goodies from local pet businesses. (His human campaign manager was also given prizes to enjoy).

As the mayor, Quintin Marr will make appearances at community events, and will serve as goodwill ambassador to all pets in the community, advocating on their behalf.

To help Quintin Marr with mayoral duties, the top five runners up became Canine Council Members, and may be asked to fill in when the Canine Mayor is unavailable. They also received medals and certificates for their hard work. All candidates received a prize for their hard work.

Rounding out the Canine Council are Axelle Belle, who raised $1,641; Izzy, a 21-year-old blind and deaf candidate who earned $1,235; Yogi, who raised $1,043; Halsey, who is working to be a therapy dog, raised $745; and Pariselle, who raised $662.

Quintin Marr's work as mayor starts nearly immediately, as he will serve as ambassador at the May 20 1 Love Reggae and Art Fest, another Fallbrook Animal Sanctuary fundraiser, which will be held at Casa Estrella.