In Defense of a Neighborhood

I am dismayed by the negative comments directed at my community in the current debate over the Coliseum, including those comments by James F. Large in Voices on Sept. 28.

I have lived and worked in the area for over 40 years. It is a community of hard-working families and individuals striving to live the American dream. I have always felt as comfortable and safe here as in any other part of this great city. I am proud to work in a community that has hosted (without incident) numerous national and international award ceremonies at the Shrine Auditorium.

I have worked with this community advisory group to improve this part of the city for more than 15 years. Our accomplishments include the development of quality residences, commercial shopping centers and a multitude of cultural facilities. These efforts have been instrumental in retaining USC within the city boundaries. The fact that a world-renowned university is not only willing to stay but even able to prosper must tell you something about this community.

With or without an NFL team, the future of Exposition Park and its immediate surroundings is very positive. Joining the Afro-American Museum and County Museum of Natural History is the new California Science Center Museum and 3D IMAX Theater (currently under construction). The new museum complex is part of a master plan for Exposition Park, which when completed will reaffirm the park as a regional cultural resource.

JOHN BLACK, Chairman

Hoover Redevelopment Project