For a publication that has long encouraged students to run for the Foggy Bottom and West End Advisory Neighborhood Commission, it is disconcerting that the Hatchet’s editorial board would endorse David Lehrman in “Hatchet endorses ANC incumbent” (Nov. 1, p. 4), over a peer who has overwhelming support among all members of the Foggy Bottom community. Just because someone is a long-time resident does not mean that they represent the interests of their fellow residents.
As leaders in the student and permanent residential communities, let us be clear: The obvious choice for members of both groups in this race is Patrick Kennedy.
All of us have gotten to know Kennedy well over the past year and have come to respect, as The Hatchet noted, his “experience, enthusiasm and knowledge” when it comes to community matters. He has a tremendous work ethic and is earnest in his commitment to standing up for the best interests of the neighborhood.
The two of us who have served as president of the Foggy Bottom Association know that Kennedy’s service to the community belies the editorial’s assertion that he is ill-prepared to represent permanent residents; in fact, his stated desire to “push back on University construction projects that do not directly create student-focused spaces” is of just as much interest to permanent residents as it is to students.
It is important to note that Patrick has done significant work on non-GW issues, from acting as a liaison for area residents in a streetscape project to participating in working groups on Washington Circle and the creation of a Neighborhood Heritage Trail in Foggy Bottom.
But where it concerns their interests directly, it’s important for GW students to be represented by commissioners who have credibility in the larger community. Kennedy has built up that credibility, and he represents a clear improvement over Lehrman, whose frequent absences at ANC meetings and undistinguished track record leave his constituents with much to be desired.
Tomorrow, voters in District 2A01 have an opportunity to elect to the ANC a committed neighborhood activist who just happens to be a GW student. They should avail themselves of the opportunity and vote Kennedy for the Advisory Neighborhood Commission.
Signed,
L. Asher Corson; Commissioner, ANC 2A03
Ronald T. Cocome; President, Foggy Bottom Association (2002-05)
Ashwin Narla; President, GW Student Association
Abby Bergren; Executive Vice President, GW Student Association
Jacob Thayer; President, GW Residence Hall Association