Reseda Renaissance

* Re “A Modest Renaissance for Reseda,” Dec. 1.

Three cheers to Barbara Varenas, Shirley Merz and Allison McGean, the “Renaissance Ladies” who, unlike most of us, were not content to just complain about the appearance and the downhill decline of Reseda, but decided to do something about it.

Having lived in Reseda for over 44 years, I too have been disappointed to notice the steady decline in the business section. I realize that the nearby malls have no doubt lured customers away from local businesses, but I still prefer to shop in nearby Reseda whenever possible. We all would complain loud and long if these businesses were to leave entirely. However, they too have a responsibility.

Wouldn’t it be great if the merchants would join together and, with the aid of the Reseda Chamber of Commerce, encourage local nurseries to provide appropriate plants and invite residents to contribute time and money to the overall effort of restoring Reseda to the great shopping area it used to be.

These ladies have made a great start by improving the landscaping in the median strip on Sherman Way, and perhaps with the help of other volunteers, the entire area could enjoy a face-lift.

VIRGINIA ROCKHOLD

Reseda