Meet Market

Back when Ed Koch was mayor of New York, he was known to stand in subway stations and greet his constituents by calling out: “How am I doing?”

In the San Fernando Valley, we have Assemblyman Bob Hertzberg (D-Sherman Oaks) who has taken to standing in front of supermarkets and greeting his constituents by calling out: “Hi. I represent you in the Capitol.”

It’s all part of Hertzberg’s efforts to bring the government to the people, even if it means getting in their face while they try to rush into a supermarket to stock up on Thanksgiving groceries.

In the span of three days, the freshman lawmaker is appearing at a Vons supermarket in Reseda, a Ralphs market in Van Nuys and a Lucky store in North Hollywood.

“At a fundamental level, I’m trying to build confidence in the democratic process,” he said as he stood in front of a Ralphs supermarket in Van Nuys on Monday, holding a packet of brochures emblazoned with his name and photo.

Throughout the region, state and federal lawmakers like Hertzberg are using the winter break from the legislative sessions to find out what is on the minds of their constituents.

For example, state Sen. Adam Schiff is holding office hours on Wednesday to answer questions and resolve problems that his constituents have with the state government.

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But Hertzberg, at the suggestion of one of his aides, decided to get out from behind his desk and press the flesh with people in his district, not just those who have the time and inclination to make an appointment.

Several people who were approached by Hertzberg while they lugged groceries to their car applauded his initiative.

“I think all politicians should get to know the people,” said Colette Neidirch after chatting with Hertzberg at Ralphs on Monday. “I think it’s a good idea.”

But not everyone was glad to see him.

His staff estimated that about 20% of the people he greets want nothing to do with him. It’s nothing personal. Most of the people who brushed him off appeared to think he was selling something.

One shopper simply gave Hertzberg a thumbs down when the lawmaker tried to hand him a brochure.

Others simply didn’t like his party affiliation.

“I hope you are a Republican,” said Van Nuys resident Leon Taylor when Hertzberg approached him outside of the market.

“No, I’m a Democrat,” Hertzberg responded.

“Get outta here!” Taylor said laughing. But before he could stomp off, Hertzberg grabbed his hand and shook it vigorously.

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Others thought Hertzberg was seeking their vote.

“I’m not running,” Hertzberg told a man in a plaid shirt who asked what office he was seeking. “I’m just working.”

Hertzberg learned quickly that being ignored or rejected by a man holding a frozen turkey can be a humbling experience.

“If you think you are important, people here will blow you off and you will learn humility right away,” he said.

But there were some people who took the time to talk to the assemblyman to complain about the government or make their suggestions for new legislation.

Among the most unusual suggestions came from a man who wanted the state to adopt an official plaid pattern for the Scottish people of California to wear. Hertzberg said he’s considering the idea.

Others discussed their ideas for improving the schools, reducing taxes and halting the deterioration of neighborhoods.

Normally a very talkative man, Hertzberg was temporarily at a loss for words when Van Nuys resident Leon Overall gave Hertzberg his advice.

“Do the right thing,” the man said.

“That’s it?” asked Hertzberg.

“That’s all government should do. Do the right thing,” Overall said. “If people are hungry, give them something to eat. Do the right thing.”

“But different people have different ideas about what the right thing is,” Hertzberg said. “How do I know what the right thing is?”

“You’ll know,” Overall replied.

“Tell you what,” said Hertzberg. “I’ll give you my card and you call me and tell me when I’m not doing the right thing.”

The man took the card and rolled his grocery cart away.