Last night was the AVNC's candidates' forum at Glenfeliz Elementary School. I'll echo Caroline Netzorg, my fellow candidate, and say that I was really moved and humbled by the other candidates. Hearing everybody's plans and hopes for Atwater Village made me smile so hard that my jaw hurt.
The evening was hosted by Stephen Box, the city election supervisor, who brough his infectious energy and warmth to the proceedings. I must say that the election board has really done a fabulous job getting the word out about both the election and the forum. Special shout-out to Pamela Burgess, who has been tireless in keeping us all informed and up-to-date.
There were eighty-five friends and neighbors at the forum to hear us out, and I was lucky enough to meet many of them after the forum at the chat and chew.
And what good chews! We had food from all my faves: Tam O'Shanter, Indochine Vien, LA Bread, and Tacos Villa Corona. Deeelish!
Here is what I said last night:
Hello. I’d like to thank the election committee and Glenfeliz Elementary School for hosting tonight’s forum.
First, a little about myself. My name is Leonora Gershman. I grew up in Grand Forks, ND, graduated from New York University, and lived in New York for eight years, until I came to Los Angeles a little over four years ago. I am an actress, singer, dancer, and writer, and my fiancé and I just got engaged a couple months ago.
Although I’ve only lived in Atwater Village for a year and a half, I have never been so passionately in love with any other neighborhood I’ve lived. When I bought my condo here, I finally felt like I was home.
I grew up in a small city in North Dakota. My mother is a professor and my father is a small business owner and is the president of the Grand Forks city council, so growing up, my parents taught me that education was paramount that and civic pride and service were a right, responsibility, and privilege. I really believe in progressive and grassroots involvement, and that’s why I’m here.
I’m running for the Atwater Village Neighborhood Council because I believe that Atwater Village can only get better and better.
I will work hard to encourage our residents to shop with and support our local businesses. I believe that communities flourish are strengthened through their small businesses. Our local merchants are what give Atwater Village its flair and personality.
I will work with the city and the parks department to improve our green spaces and parks. As I look forward to having a family in the next few years, I know that I will want them to enjoy playing in Atwater’s playgrounds. I also hope to see the LA River Project and Atwater Village Greenway completed, and will work with the city to ensure that our river walks and bike paths are safe and beautiful.
As an artist, I will also work hard to nurture the arts here in Atwater. Events like Artwater and the mural projects bring neighbors together, get the residents involved in their community, and remind us all why we love to live in Atwater. 
Above all, I will listen to what the residents of Atwater Village have to say. Your concerns will be my concerns, and I will work hard to resolve those concerns.
Everyday, I take my Scottie dog on a walk along the river and I marvel at my luck that I get to live here. I’m proud to be an Atwater Villager. I hope you will give me your vote.
Photo courtesy of Atwater Village Newbie
