Not the time to be ambitious

Dear Editor:As a longtime Downey resident, I was surprised and shocked to read your lead article last week ("Developers Envision a Grand Entrance to Downtown," 5/15/09). Any individual or investment group contemplating such a bold move during these tough economic times must be smoking some really strong stuff. Thousands of automobile agencies and other businesses are going under, adding to the already bloated numbers of unemployed. Before the housing and commercial real estate bubble burst, during the heyday of a wildly expanding economy, this project might have been a good idea - maybe. Having survived more than 10 years of the Great Depression (1929-1941), I learned many valuable economic lessons; save your money, live frugally, and always be prepared for another unexpected economic downturn. Living during the greatest economic bust in United States history leaves one with unforgettable memories - a week doesn't pass that I don't reflect on those difficult times. - Byron Dillon, Downey

********** Published: May 22, 2009 - Volume 8 - Issue 5