First published in the Nov. 3 print issue of the Outlook Valley Sun.
I write in support of Octavia Thuss for School Board. Why? Because I love this town, what it has become since I moved here nearly two decades ago, and what it can become with leaders like Octavia.
I met Octavia nearly 7-plus years ago, and in her I found commitment, intelligence (that sometimes blew me over), and a love for our students (all students) and our community (all members thereof). What more can you/we ask for?
Well, we can ask for more leaders like Octavia — open, honest, above-board. Sadly, many of our elected officials do not act in our best interest. For instance, behind closed doors, our City Council installs candidates rejected by this community into commission positions. (Shame on them.) Or complain about potential candidates being out of the country (serving our country) yet don’t themselves show up for community events that benefit the entire community — like the Lanterman presentation or the La Cañada Congregational Church dinner and discussion. (Shame on them.)
Was Octavia there, listening and learning? Of course, she was. Why? Well, like I said — she is committed, intelligent, loves our students and our community — and does not fear knowledge, progress or (when necessary) change.
My vote goes to Octavia Thuss, a lifelong educator (and she is supported by the La Cañada Teachers’ Union!)
Won’t you please join me?
Kim Hershman
La Cañada Flintridge
