First in a series
[img]2994|right|Donesia Gause||no_popup[/img]Dateline Carson – No doubt the most unusual race in Los Angeles County one month from tomorrow pits the mayor of this community against the city clerk. The mayor is seeking the clerk’s job, not the traditional election direction.
Donesia Gause, 35 years old, did not expect to contest the most electric personality in Carson, Jim Dear, to retain a job she dearly loves.
Young, talented, reserved and confident city clerk vs. Mr. Outgoing, almost twice her age.
He makes headlines drinking a class of water. She is in the room, and you may not realize it.
They are classically unalike in personalities.
Mr. Dear, the archetype of a lifelong political figure, has painted the campaign in vivid colors that cry for attention. Ms. Gause pacifically can sound as calm as if she were ordering a fresh espresso.
“The community sees two candidates, one very qualified to hold the position, one who has been very active in the position,” the placid Ms. Gause said across the table over the weekend. “The other has a desire to serve in the position. This is a democracy. So voters have an opportunity to choose who they see as best qualified to serve in that capacity.”
This month Ms. Gause marks her third anniversary as Carson’s city clerk after her predecessor, who served 37 years, suffered a disabling stroke.
The question begging to be asked was, why is Ms. Gause the more appropriate choice for March 3?
“The city clerk’s job is non-political,” she says.
As she spoke, measured, disciplined pride swelled to the fore.
“It is a profession,” Ms. Gause said. “I am a certified municipal clerk, which means I dedicated hundreds of hours to becoming certified.”
(To be continued)
