Reader’s Response to ‘Changing Face of Arcadia’ (2/4/16 Issue)

Dear Editor:
“The major suggestion for this (Duarte) area was ‘to look to RID the area of the 99 Cents Only Store …'” Did the NAI report use such language? Is this terminology considered “objective reporting?” And who is behind the effort “to RID the area of the 99 Cents Only Store?” Get your demographics right. Not everyone in Arcadia is a “high income resident” or “mid-level professional” who uses, wants, or needs a “high-end shopping district … high quality retail” (we have the mall, thank you), or even a Gelson’s or Bristol Farms; if Fresh-N-Easy did not make it, where is the wisdom of putting a more expensive market in its place?
My husband and I have lived in the area since 1974. We are now pensioners who work part time, and gratefully frequent the 99 Cents Only Store. There are many small businesses in the surrounding area which are dependent upon the foot traffic of the “Duarte Area.” And, as the article reads, “In China, Arcadia has a reputation for being highly desired location.” Is someone in China going to help me make ends meet? The prestige of having an Arcadia address can be obtained with an Arcadia P.O. Box. “Challenges to the area … ” are NOT competition from nearby areas. Challenges to the Arcadia area are within itself.
– Sharron Popovich
ARCADIA

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