I have been reading all of the local papers, and I have been struck by the difference in Gary Abrams’ campaign strategy.
As I understand it, Mr. Abrams is asking the residents of our city to judge him by his appearances at public forums and his letter-writing campaign.
I do applaud Mr. Abrams’ pride in being a “Volunteer of the Year” at his children’s school.
What I am not certain about is, how does that translate into assuming a role on a School Board, which is a completely different environment?
If seems to me that Mr. Abrams, while well intentioned, is using the same strategy as Jimmy Stewart in “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” — a feel-good oldie where being an “aw-shucks, it’s all about the kids” kind of guy wins everybody over by the last reel.
The problem with this strategy is that what works in movies and at the volunteer level — “the kids love me” — does not necessarily show off the skills and discipline needed in the position as a School Board member to those of us who take the time to listen to candidates, read their materials, show up at meetings and vote on Election Day.
I truly wish Mr. Abrams luck.
I hope he will be able to take the well- intentioned advice of fellow candidates whom he would be working with if he were elected.
Campaigns in small towns like Culver City really do rely on meeting with residents, and being humble enough to stop complaining about other candidates and start showing us what you've got.
I hear a lot about school volunteering. But that does not make a School Board member.
It makes a great dad, volunteer and, I'm sure, neighbor.
I think I speak for my friends and I when I say that I hope Gary gets creative and reaches out to the voters he is hoping will elect him.
Ms. Lidiot may be contacted at annlidiot@yahoo.com
