Cultural Center of City

Regarding “Those Who Stayed” by Gary Libman (Nov. 15) on South-Central Los Angeles residents: I live in this area, and I consider it the cultural center of the city. Let me tell you why.

I can walk to the great University of Southern California, with all its outstanding programs and resources.

The Museum of Science and Industry, the Museum of Natural History, the Afro-American Museum and the IMAX theater with their outstanding programs and exhibits are also within walking distance--mine to enjoy as I will.

The magnificent Rose Garden of Exposition Park is known throughout the country, and I enjoy its beauty and fragrance while I jog around its boundaries.

I walk to the Coliseum and the Sports Arena. No trouble losing my car--I left it at home. The Olympic-size swim stadium is also there for me to enjoy.

The Shrine Auditorium, one of the best theaters in the area, offers opera, ballet and jazz concerts. I can pick and choose--and never be far from home.

Minutes away are the Music Center, the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Convention Center. What would I like to do tonight?

I am Catholic, and my church is St. Cecilia, a jewel of Byzantine architecture; or, if I decide to visit, the superb St. Vincent Church is at Figueroa and Adams.

University Village, a shopping mall, houses 32nd Street Market, a gourmet cook’s delight. Anything I want I can find there.

I am close to good restaurants of every ethnic group, and I enjoy eating out. Creole, Cajun, Chinese, Italian, Korean, etc.--all here for me to enjoy.

Sure, there are problems in South-Central Los Angeles, but some problems exist in every community. I have lived here for 35 years and have no plans to move.

GLORIA S. CURTIS

Los Angeles