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Kelly Smith Erikson Receives Congressional Recognition

Kelly Erikson CROPPEDOAKHURST — In a classic case of “local girl makes good,” Yosemite High School alum (Class of 2001) Kelly Smith Erickson has been named the 28th Congressional District’s Woman of the Year. She grew up in Oakhurst and her proud parents are is Lesley Smith and Dean Smith of Dean Smith General Contracting. Kelly lives in Echo Park in Los Angeles County now, where she’s made a distinct impression on the area and its inhabitants. Here’s what Congressman Adam Schiff entered into the official record in recognition of Kelly’s accomplishments.

 

A Tribute to Kelly Erickson, 28th Congressional District Woman of the Year

“I rise today in honor of Women’s History Month. Each year we pay special tribute to the contributions and sacrifices made by our nation’s women. It is an honor to pay homage to outstanding women who are making a difference in my Congressional District. I would like to recognize a remarkable woman, Kelly Erickson, of Echo Park, a unique neighborhood in Los Angeles, California.”

Congressman Schiff goes on to specifically recognize the local schools where Kelly studied and played.

Kelly Erikson tribute“Born in Oakhurst, California, Kelly attended Oakhurst Elementary School, Oak Creek Intermediate School and Yosemite High School. She moved to Southern California to attend Pitzer College where she obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Political Journalism. Because of the college’s environment of social and community activism, Kelly credits Pitzer College for guiding her into volunteering and community activism.”

Ms. Erickson’s involvement in Echo Park community organizations is extensive, notes the tribute.

“She served on the Outreach Committee of the Greater Echo Park Elysian Neighborhood Council, is chair of the Echo Park Community Parade Committee, a member of the Echo Park Chamber of Commerce, and is active in the Echo Park Improvement Association where she serves as Secretary and on the Neighborhood Issues Committee.

“In addition, Kelly has worked on several neighborhood projects, including promoting local small businesses, and her most current project, which is the documentation and preservation of Echo Park area murals.”

Several years ago Kelly founded the website Echo Park Now, which also has a presence on social media, to help increase community awareness and involvement.

“When she is not writing or attending community meetings, she is running her graphic design and marketing services business, Craft Media Los Angeles. Kelly frequently donates her business services to assist in community efforts.”

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Kelly Erikson of Craft Media Los Angeles

Kelly is married to Bennett Erickson, the official record reads and would not be complete without adding they have two rescue dogs, Aja and Josie.

“I ask all Members to join me in honoring an exceptional woman of California’s 28th Congressional District, Kelly Erickson, for her extraordinary service to the community.” — Adam B. Schiff, Member of Congress

Congratulations, Ms. Erikson.

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