Well, we thought about it long and hard, and we’re endorsing them all.

The real winner here is the Children’s House, as every $1 vote goes directly to the Orcas non-profit. It really doesn’t matter who wins the actual race, as long as you vote often.

Here’s a bit about each candidate, and why we think they are all worthy of your votes.

Languidly sauntering through the tall grass, swishing away flies with her strong tail, April the cow is queen of the huge field overlooking Eastsound.

She sees us walk, run, bike, and drive past her all day, every day. She knows who is late for work, who is fighting with their sibling on the way to school, and who is walking slowly enough to smell the roses. If knowledge is power, then April rules the roost. (Rest in peace, Eggitha. By the way, there is a memorial fund for her set up at Children’s House.)

Bossy is another farm animal vying for political power. She has unselfishly given the coat off her back to many a local. She won’t pull the wool over her constituents’ eyes. And as a member of the Green Pasture Party, you know she cares about the environment.

Clara has the poise and grace to move with agility through tight spots – not to mention places with lots of breakables. As a regal shop dog, she has met more locals and visitors than anyone else on this isle. Always friendly and a sucker for scratches behind the ears, she is a town favorite.

Lucky Lu has what it takes to round everyone up. Born on Don Tompkins’ farm, she comes from a long line of smart, well trained dogs. She will tackle the tough issues with the intensity and single-mindedness that only a border collie can accomplish.

And then there’s Tractor. Just look at that face. It strikes terror into the hearts of Eastsound mice, and elicits squeals of joy from feline lovers. Aloof yet affectionate, she would rule the town with an iron paw.

As Mayor Dakota prepares to hand over his title, we thank him for his past year of service. What a gentle giant.

Voting closes at 2 p.m., after the July 4th parade. The new mayor will be crowned at 3 p.m. in the Village Green. To cast your vote, visit www.oich.org or find one of the many ballot boxes around Eastsound.