Help me bring an inclusive, common-sense approach to our city's government!
Vote for me this November and I'll advocate for all HB residents, not just those who agree with me.
Eric Dane Silkenson
Lifelong HB Resident
I may be new to running for city office, but I am definitely not new to HB. I have lived here since 1972. This community has raised me.
About Silk
What I've Been Up to Since '72
I grew up on Yorktown & Magnolia where my parents and sister still live today. I attended Wardlow Elementary (now housing), Talbert Middle School, and HBHS. I earned an AA from Golden West College and a BA in history/minor in journalism from CSULB, where I also earned my teaching credential. I did my student teaching at Bancroft Middle School in Long Beach last year.
As a kid, I spent summers at the beach with my mom, sister, and friends, played Frisbee and Nerf football with my dad after work, and my AYSO in Region 117. I loved growing up here. I spent most of my adult life in every aspect of the restaurant business, from server to bartender to manager until changing careers and going into teaching last year.
It is this experience, and desire to serve, that led my wife of 15 years, Jennifer and me to run for HB City Council. As an educator I know how important your kids' education is. As a former restaurant employee, I know how important our small businesses are along with our tourism revenue. As a surfer, I know how important our world-renowned beaches are to that tourism revenue. I would also like to work with my fellow council members and nominees to address our homelessness challenges.
These are stressful times. Stressful for teachers, parents, and students. Stressful for HB business owners and residents that want to safely get back to some sense of normalcy. I want to be one of the people that you can count on to make that happen. Some candidates may talk about making HB safe again, or restoring HB. While there will always be room to grow and improve, when did HB stop being great? Our greatness lies within each one of us. Whether you live on Beach & Slater, or in Seacliff. Whether you live on 6th and Walnut, or Bushard and Hamilton. Whether you golf at the country club or at Meadowlark. There is more that unites us than divides us. Help me ride the wave of civic unity and vote for me on November 3rd!
Jen and me in Seattle for a Charger victory