What I'd like to see for Downey in 2025
At the end of every year, I try to sit back and reflect on how Downey has changed, progressed (or regressed), and adapted over the last twelve months, and then I try to think about how that momentum could carry us into the future.
I started this article as I always do: by reading last year’s installment.
Heading into 2024, it seemed like Downey was finally on the verge of normalcy after a pandemic, recall, and mass exodus of city staff.
And truthfully, that’s what this last year has truly felt like. We had some highs and some lows, sure, but for the first time in at least a little while, it didn’t seem like there was a looming dark cloud over our heads, or a sense of dire urgency.
But enough of that; let’s get into it.
Here is my wish list for 2025.
Fill in the holes in Downtown Downey
Every once in a while, I walk to lunch from the Downey Patriot office, located in Downtown Downey on the corner of Downey Avenue and 3rd Street. This has allowed me to really sit an appreciate the changes and developments in the downtown area as they occur.
Honestly, it’s a mostly pleasant stroll. There are businesses like Hall of Fame Market and the Second Tyme Around Thrift Shoppe that help keep some of the street’s homey charm, while newer establishments like Ola Restobar, Avenue Pizzeria, and Lock and Key Social Drinkery bring fresh life. Bastards Canteen is also a highlight, maintaining a regular community presence as well.
I even like the new clock that was donated by Rotary (though I’ll probably catch some flack at the next Kiwanis meeting for admitting that).
But there are two spots along my trek that are significant eye sores: the former Peking China Restaurant and Miller Mies Mortuary locations.
Last year, I wrote that I wanted to see the return of Peking China, which was forced to close in 2022 after a two-alarm kitchen fire caused significant damage. However, after two years and the appearance of for lease signs on its still boarded-up front façade, a comeback no longer seems like it is in the cards. As for the former Miller Mies building on the corner, I admittedly don’t remember when that business moved out from its location and onto Paramount Boulevard, just that the space it left behind has remained dark, dusty and - honestly - really kind of creepy for years.
Now that we’ve grieved the passing of Peking China (pun absolutely intended), I’d love to see a new business rise from the ashes (no pun intended). I don’t necessarily have any idea or suggestion as to what that may be or look like, I just hope that it might be something fresh and new for the city.
A Tabletop Game Store
Believe it or not, it’s cool to be geeky and nerdy now.
I love to game, specifically to table top game; I just don’t have a great place to do it. This is where a tabletop game store would come in.
Stores such as The Guild House in Bellflower offer a couple of unique opportunities for game enthusiasts like myself.
First of all, they usually offer a large selection of games to peruse and purchase, as well as a library of titles that can be pulled out and played right there in the store. Role playing game (like Dungeons and Dragons) players could also conceivably find all sorts of gaming necessities and accessories, like dice and miniatures. Locations such as these also commonly sell trading card games and subsequently hold tournaments, so our local Magic the Gathering, Pokemon, Yugioh, and Disney Lorcana players shouldn’t feel left out.
But on top of adding a niche flair to our local economy, a store like this would also serve as a local hangout spot, providing added entertainment for residents.
Besides, I’ve got a new RPG campaign starting soon, and I’m overdue for some new dice shopping.
Warren vs Downey should be a week-long community celebration
When I was in high school (Warren c/o 2010), Downey / Warren week was my favorite week of the year.
As a member of the marching band, I got to participate in a lot of the pomp and circumstance of the rivalry; my favorite being what was known as “campus chaos,” where we would march around the entire school disrupting classes, cheering and banging on doors, and playing our pep songs.
I even painted my face blue for the game my senior year (realize too late that it was also senior portrait night… Oh well, no regrets).
Nearly 15 years after graduation, that same passion and dedication to my alma mater still lives on, especially when we talk about…ahem… the other school.
The best part? I know many alumni from both schools feel the same way.
That’s why I’m pitching that Downey / Warren week should be made into a week-long, community wide spectacle, culminating with the game itself.
The city’s businesses could get involved, having sales, specials, and other activities. Fundraising (either for the school or a school program, or another charitable cause) could be implemented.
Downey / Warren Week is already treated as a week-long spirit week on each campus; why not extend the fun to everyone else?
Empty cages at SEAACA and LA County Animal Care and Control Centers
I had heard it before, just as I’m sure you have too…
“Adopt, don’t shop.”
I appreciated the sentiment, but I don’t think it ever fully resonated with me. That is, until about two months ago.
I wandered into the LA County Animal Care and Control shelter located on South Garfield Avenue, not looking to adopt. As it turns out, someone else had other plans for me.
Tazzy (also known as Taz, or Tazaroni) is a roughly 8-month-old Chihuahua Pug mix who loves to run, sun bathe, and play with just about any toy that squeaks. She sleeps like a Jello mold (that is to say she sleeps in whatever configuration she happens to land in), and bites noses as an expression of love (we’re working on that one). She found her fur-ever home on October 30.
But there are hundreds of other dogs, cats, and other potential pets that have yet to be so lucky.
I know that taking on a pet is a major, often 10-plus year commitment. But if you have space in your heart and your home, consider visiting these animals and seeing if you connect with one of them; you may just find a new best friend.
And if you’re not able to take on a pet at this time, then consider donating. Both the LA County shelter and SEAACA have Amazon wish lists that are posted on their respective websites.
Our furry friends deserve a happy life too (and Tazzy says you won’t regret it).
No more chicken
Do I really need to explain this one?
Merry Christmas, happy holidays, and best wishes in the new year.