Visiting different parts of the city in the past week, I have been awed and humbled by the questions, comments and even criticisms I have received on my candidacy. Today, I would like to write about two things in particular that have struck me. First, the response of the people I have met has driven home that the people of LA are not just ready for this city to be transformed, they are hungry for it. The second thing is that lots of people want to know more about me. I don’t just get asked about the issues, I get asked how I became Bob Hugsberg. The funny thing to me is that transforming LA and embracing LA are related. Let me explain.
Shaking hands has never cut it for me. You’re standing your ground, I’m standing mine, and all we’re doing by shaking hands is acknowledging each other’s existence. When I interact with somebody else, whether it’s business or politics or anything, I want us to form a partnership. I want to overcome the usual obstacles to trust and communication so that we can get down to the business of solving the problem at hand. No guarded handshakes for me, I want a bear hug. Skip the formalities, let’s get to work.
Transforming LA is going to require the same kind of ethic. We won’t be able to stand on convention to make our city great. We can’t stand 10 feet or 10 miles from each other, acknowledge each other’s existence, and think we’re separately going to solve the problems that all of us face. We all have to embrace LA together. That’s the only way we are going to be able to create the vision and generate the energy that will solve our collective problems of too many violent crimes, too few good schools and too much traffic.
Whether you’re an old friend or a one I’ve yet to make, I hope to see you soon on the campaign trail. And when I do, I’m going to give you a hug. I’m not just saying nice to meet you. I’m saying let’s embrace LA. Tell me your ideas on how to transform this city and I’ll tell you mine. With my leadership and your support, we won’t just make this city work again, we’ll make Los Angeles dazzle the world.
Hello Bob:
I am very happy that you are running for Mayor and would like to support your campaign.
Please contact me and I will do what I can to help. 818 986 1615.
Jules Feir
Vice President, Sherman Oaks Homeowners Association.
Board Member, Sherman Oaks Neighborhood Council
Posted by: Jules Feir | April 30, 2004 at 11:33 PM
GO BOB GO!!!
WE LOVE YOU!!
Randi Weitzman
Posted by: Randi Weitzman | May 15, 2004 at 05:15 PM
I just read in to-days L.A. Times that Mr. Hertzberg needs to spend lots of money to get his name recognized.
I know of a extremely cheap and effective way to do this.
And I'll willing to divulge it on the condition that if Mr. Hertzberg uses it you pay me the sum of $40,000.00.
No, it's not a scandal or anything like that, it's a completely legit way to get Mr. Hertzberg's name known.
Interested?
Posted by: Travis Clark | June 03, 2004 at 09:51 AM
I like Bob Hertzberg, because he wants real change in a positive way.
He cares about the people of Los Angeles.
Bob cares about education, and wants what is best for ALL children.
He knows business, and how to fix the problems that have been hurting business in California.
Bob has answers, while others just have questions.
We know that Los Angeles is a diverse city, and one that is changing even as I write this.
No one knows this more than Bob Hertzberg.
While it is important to preserve our rich history, it is also important to recognize the growth and changes we need to make for a better tomorrow.
Bob has the determination to do what is best for the people of Los Angeles.
I am for Bob Hertzberg.
I need him.
You need him.
Los Angeles needs him.
Thank you.
George Vreeland Hill.
Posted by: George Vreeland Hill | December 28, 2004 at 05:23 PM