Paul Cheng: 2010 City Council campaign
April 12, 2010 by admin
Filed under Council Candidates
The following blog posts are from the 2010 City Council election campaign.
Submitted Monday, April 12:
Dear Arcadians:
With the election just around the corner, I want to thank everyone for giving me the opportunity to meet and speak with you. Whether it was from precinct walking, blogging, phone calls, emails, team times, or meeting at the campaign office, I cannot tell you how honored I am to have connected with you.
Paul Cheng
Arcadia is an incredible city. I have met people from all walks of life — business owners, employees, professionals, mothers, fathers, retirees, even a person that sleeps underneath the freeway underpass; Arcadia’s energy and uniqueness is incomparable.
Now is the time for you to select someone (each person has up to three votes) that will be on city council. As such, I ask that you consider the following:
A unique prospective is what can make Arcadia a better place
I consider city council to be like a sports team. No successful sports team has all identical players. Each position is there for a reason. While some players may be similar, each one brings to the table his or her own unique perspective and understanding. That is good because any decision will be better thought out.
I am not a cookie cutter candidate. I am the only person that has ever worked inside of a city council as a non-politician. Furthermore, my views will be unhindered by years of political ties. I am younger than the other candidates. That is a great thing. It brings energy and views to the table that would otherwise be thrown to the side.
I stayed true to my beliefs in the face of adversity
As you can see, I stuck to my guns although attacked. Many people said that I was anti-Asian because I wanted to represent all Arcadians, not just one group. Others sent hate mail to the community saying that I was not a prosecutor in attempts to try to discredit me (See http://xynree.tumblr.com/post/502534027; http://arcadiaavocado.wordpress.com/; http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1BDn3K_4FqY&feature=channel).
What does that mean for you? It means that in the face of difficulties and pressures I will fight to ensure that I will not waiver from what I know to be true. I will not cater to one group just to get a vote. Those that took the time to create the Community of Homes deserve it.
Our campaign provided solutions not just issues
I am proud of the fact that we were the campaign that people turned to when they wanted to find solutions, not just rehash problems about Arcadia. I have always said that anyone can bring up issues. But who can bring up logical and feasible solutions that will move Arcadia move forward? While I cannot say that every one of my thoughts is earth shattering a rolling stone gathers no moss. Below are just a few of our ideas.
Community Garden: I am the only candidate to have brought up the idea of a community garden (run by the city) to help educate children and promote healthy eating to all residents.
Collective Internet Pricing: Our city should look into negotiating a collective internet rate for all households. Cities that have done so have reduced their internet prices per household by 15% or more while also increasing revenues into the city.
Focus on Expenses not just income: Income, while sexy, is illusory. We must look at further reducing expenses. Last year, we considered cutting ambulance services, street sweeping, tree cutting, and closing the libraries on Fridays. (Arcadia City Manager Don Penman, Page 10 of 2010 budget Paragraph 2: http://www.ci.arcadia.ca.us/docs/final_operating__budget_book_09-10.pdf). That is unacceptable. To be good stewards of our city, council must tackle budgetary concerns immediately.
Finance Commission: Although we have had financial committees before, I want to establish a permanent Commission that is allowed to comment to the public about their findings. I want every contract this city enters into to be analyzed by this commission. This will create a citizen check and balance and more transparency to bring back citizen confidence.
Solar Panels: I will advocate providing homeowners with an expedited way of getting permits for photovoltaic (solar panel) installations. We should also look at partnering with homes so that our city can generate revenue from credits received from solar panel installations.
Removal of Massage Parlors: While some may be legitimate, the concern is that they bring a type of connotation Arcadians don’t want. (See LA Times: In a three year period Arcadia gave out 700 massage parlor licenses: http://articles.latimes.com/2008/oct/28/local/me-massage28). How do we weed out the good ones and get rid of the others? We need to pass a city ordinance that requires all businesses that provide massage services to prohibit tinting of windows and require video cameras on any entrance to be submitted on a weekly basis to the police department. This will immediately eliminate the wheat from the chaff.
Youth Commission: Many believe that youth have needs. Few want to hear about it from them. I want to have a youth commission made up of representatives from the high school and middle schools that will communicate to police and the city council on a monthly basis so that their needs get addressed.
Conclusion
I want to thank those who live here. You created the Community of Homes. I want to keep that tradition going. I hope that on April 13, 2010 you allow me to have one of your votes so I can serve your needs and give you the voice that you want on City Council. Thank you.
Sincerely yours,
Paul
Submitted Monday, March 29:
I had the opportunity to attend a local church with my friend Larry.
I went with him because everyone I have met from his church has always been a person of their word. It means a lot to me. So when he asked me to go, it was not if, but when.
During the Sunday school service Larry handed everyone a lemon. He reminded everyone that life is full of lemons and that we need to add some sugar water to make it lemonade.
Over the past few months I have been plagued by a person that drives around in a car making disparaging statements. He condemns me as an Anti-Christ of the Chinese people, a person that lies about my background, and a deceiver.
Most recently, he sent out a letter to many citizens in Arcadia saying the same thing. We received many calls from people that were hurt, curious, offered suggestions to fight it, or wanted to interrogate me for the alleged statements made on the letter.
I was sad when I had a chance to read it. The details of the letter were extremely defamatory, very hard to defend, and absolutely false. Importantly, the letter stated that I told everyone that I was an Attorney General and/or District Attorney. That I lied to judges. That I was oppressing Chinese people. This letter was sent out to many people throughout the community.
Many people that know me know that I was a former Deputy City Attorney for the City of Hesperia. I have never made statements to the contrary.
It is also my belief that if Asian Americans continue to oppress each other by running underground businesses and abusing those that work there that mainstream society will not respect us. As such, half of my law practice is dedicated to fighting illegal cash businesses in the San Gabriel Valley. (See http://www.prweb.com/releases/2008/09/prweb1398134.htm for the type of cases we do).
However, how would I be able to defend such malicious actions by this third party? How would I communicate to people that this person demanded the following to make him go away:
* Pay him a lump some of money
* Dismiss the lawsuit or
* Find an attorney that would defend his clients against the employees
All options are illegal. All alternatives prejudice the abused employees.
Everyday, instead of talking to people about my platform and how we could improve Arcadia, it became a character analysis of my candidacy.
I had to be strong and be sincere when people attacked me. It was not easy. I had many people slam the door on my face because of the statements made in the letter. Some even said that if the statements were untrue I should quit running and attack the person that attacked me.
On Wednesday of last week, someone in my office received a call from Andre Quintero, a current Deputy City Attorney for Los Angeles and current Mayor of El Monte. He wanted to recognize my work in the city and wanted to recognize my work as a former Deputy City Attorney.
I was floored. Here was a person that I barely knew that had been following our campaign. He wanted to support me and legitimize my work.
On Saturday, March 27, 2010, Mayor Quintero came by the office. He presented a plaque to me that supported who I was and what I stood for.
Suddenly, the tide of doubt had changed. Many people began to realize that was occurring was a smear campaign by one person against another.
**************************
In your life today, you have some lemons. It could be family, money, life, etc.
I want you to be encouraged to add your own version of sugar water. Your lemonade may not come as soon as you want, nor the way you want, but it will come.
No matter what, do not give up.
And when you succeed, call me, and let’s drink some lemonade together.
**************************
Brother Larry, thank you. Your lemon meant more than you thought when you handed it out at Sunday school.
-
Submitted Friday, March 26:
Dear Arcadians,
You are invited on Saturday, March 27, 2010 at 1230 pm to join Mayor Andre Quintero of El Monte as he recognizes my service to the community as a former Deputy City Attorney.
He is currently a Deputy City Attorney for the City of Los Angeles.
Light refreshments and snacks will be served.
Thank you.
Location:
1 W. Duarte Rd., Unit B
Arcadia, CA 91007
Time: 12:30 p.m.
-
Submitted Wednesday, March 24:
Dear Arcadians:
It has come to my attention that the following negative campaigning is occurring:
1. Signs are being stolen from supporters’ lawns
2. Signs are being replaced on property that are not approved
Actions like this are unnecessary to effectuate the interests of the candidates.
No one benefits from such actions. We ask all candidates and their supporters to please run a campaign that all Arcadians can be proud of.
If you find a sign on your property that was not requested please let us know as expeditiously as possible so that we take it back immediately. I apologize on behalf of all the candidates for any inconvenience this has caused.
Thank you.
Paul Cheng
Submitted Friday, March 5:
For many people, crime has become an issue that many want addressed immediately.
I know in our community meetings, many people ask me what they can do to prevent crime, what my position is on it, and what I can be able to do if elected to City Council.
For purposes of concision, I am getting this blog done quicker than normal. Grammar edits will have to be done by your eyes. Thank you in advance.
What can one do to prevent crime?
Report all suspicious activity
Many times, crime occurs because people fail to report suspicious activity. Studies show that prior to a home invasion robbery felons have already studied your patterns, understood when one arrives and leaves the house, and whether your neighborhood is one which people call in suspicious activity.
Herein lies a serious problem. Arcadia is the Community of Homes. And yet, we are not a community of neighbors. In the past ten years there has been a huge influx of immigrants into the community. With the diverse families people do not know each other on a personal level anymore. This unfortunate circumstance makes it so that questionable activity is not reported.
Recommendation: Report anyone whose actions beg a second look. Always report someone that stays in a car over 30 minutes in a residential area.
Ethnic Signs Off
Some crimes target specific people groups. In Arcadia, many of the homes targeted are Asian owned. Asian immigrants are well known for dealing in cash and keep much of it at home along with jewelry. (In some Asian communities, cash is exchanged for gold bars that are also kept in the home).
Thieves specifically look at clues to your home. I have recommended all ethnic signs to be taken off of doors and windows. While I am happy that people have pride in their own communities, I am very concerned by the clues being given to those that are scoping out homes in the area.
Recommendation: At a minimum, take off the signs that celebrate Chinese New Year.
Overflow on Mail
Call your local postal service when you are on vacation. Even three days worth of mail can overflow your mailbox. That is a direct clue that you are not home.
Recommendation: For those uncomfortable with notifying the USPS tell a neighbor that you would like them to pick up your mail when you are gone.
Tell a Neighbor
As previously stated, it is unfortunate that people do not know each other anymore. Vacations are an ideal time for people to invade your home.
In telling a neighbor, you reduce of risk of theft.
Case in point. Theft recently occurred when a family went on vacation. Two vans backed into the driveway and made off with many items. Perhaps that may not have occurred had the victim had trusted people to communicate her whereabouts and the neighborhood was vigilant in calling suspicious activity.
Recommendation: Tell a trusted neighbor that you will be gone on vacation.
Timed Lighting
This is an inexpensive no-brainer and one which every house should have.
Recommendation: Just do it.
Different Routes Going Home
Every person should have 3-5 different routes in going home. Some studies show that a person may be followed for up to one month prior to an invasion occurring. As such, taking alternative routes (which may not add additional commute time) helps in reducing home invasions.
Recommendation: Immediately find 2 routes by the end of this week and 3 others next week to go home.
Wallets are the New Purses
I notice that many women in Arcadia wear extremely expensive jewelry and purses when they go to the supermarket and the mall. The attention brought upon those women sometimes is not desired. As such, I recommend having women bring as little as possible when you go shopping. If you can fit it in a wallet, do it. Leave the purse at home.
Recommendation: Wallets are the new purses in Arcadia.
My Position on Crime
I am a former prosecutor and Deputy City Attorney. My take on crime is very simple. Realistically, police cannot be everywhere in the city. As such, we must do our part to reduce the possibility of crime in our neighborhoods and against us personally. We cannot blame the police when we have not done our part to reduce the potential crime.
What do I intend to do for Arcadia Regarding Issues of Crime
There are several, low cost and effective ways that our city can improve citizen safety
Youth Commission
I have previously spoken on this issue before and will not belabor the point. We need to have representatives of the local high school and junior highs tell us what their concerns and needs are in the City of Arcadia. I always say that although I do not know who the gangs are, where drugs are sold, and where kids race cars, our youth do. We must give youth every opportunity to speak up what they need and how Arcadians can help. That in effect benefits all of us.
Mobile Cameras
Areas of concern in the city can be monitored with mobile cameras. It an inexpensive way to help our local law enforcement to have a third pair of eyes.
24 hour tip hotline
We need to have a 24 tip hotline where one can leave tips in their native language. While I am not an advocate of catering to people that do not speak English, I believe for crime purposes, we must accommodate cultural barriers that prevent people from calling in crime.
Citizen Crime Commission
We need to develop a CCC. The commission acts as an intermediary between the citizens and police. Complaints, concerns, tips, etc., can be given to this commission to help our police become better public servants.
Conclusion
I am proud to have citizens and law enforcement that want to make this city into an even better place. I hope this small blog helps you know more about my campaign.
Submitted Saturday, Feb. 6:
Someone came up to me about a month ago. The child (and later his parent) said to me that down the street from my campaign office they sell pot. I asked the child how he learned about this and why I didn’t know. He said one thing: “Because you’re old.”
I was stunned. But it suddenly dawned on me that he was right. When I was child I knew many things that my parents did not.
That is what is happening here. Our children know so much that it is frightening. We must utilize our children’s knowledge to keep us abreast of what is going on. They are one of our last untapped resources in fighting crime.
Merely knowing the latest technologies (internet, Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, etc.) is not enough. We must not shut the mouths of our children.
Our children know why there has been a recent stabbing, why thefts are increasing, and why youth on youth crime is prevalent.
A youth commission would be like the other commissions in the society (Historical, Planning, etc.). They would report to our police, fire and city council. They would make suggestions and tell us when they believe our civic leaders are going down the wrong path to solve youth problems.
I know that our children have a voice. They have always been speaking to us. Time for us, the adults, to listen.
Submitted Thursday, Feb. 4:
Last night I had the opportunity to go to Baldwin Stocker Elementary School.
I was touched because I saw Ms. Hillman and lots of dedicated teachers freely giving their time to help students improve their math.
We should be proud of people like Principal Hillman and the teachers that wake up every morning to work with our children. Our children spend more time with teachers than with us. Treat them well. They are molding our children for the future.
Also, I was so happy to see the large number of fathers that took their children to the math session. It’s so important to have parents involved; especially fathers. I did not have the opportunity to have father-son time with my own dad. He was a hard worker and I accept that. But I cannot tell you how much I wish I could have five minutes to work on math problems with my father. And last night, I missed him more than anything.
Application statement filed with City Clerk’s office:
Paul Cheng
Occupation: Former Prosecutor/Attorney
As a former Deputy City Attorney and Prosecutor, Paul Cheng brings the experience it takes to continue making Arcadia a safe and prosperous city for all residents. Paul Cheng is committed to PRESERVING THE PAST AND PROTECTING THE FUTURE. And during these tough economic times, Paul Cheng has the courage to bring necessary fiscal reform to city spending, and fight for our fair share in Sacramento and Washington, D.C.
As City Councilmember, Paul Cheng has a clear vision for Arcadia based on the PRIDE we all have in our city:
P reserve Arcadia’s General Plan
R educe traffic congestion
I ncrease Public Safety
D ecrease Unnecessary City Spending
E ncourage Citizen Participation
Arcadia was recently named “The Best City to Raise a Child” in California. As City Councilmember, Paul Cheng will make sure that Arcadia continues to be a great city to raise a family. Working closely with Police, Fire, and local schools, Paul Cheng will work to preserve our city’s quality of life.
Paul Cheng earned a B.A. in Philosophy from UCLA and a J.D. from Southwestern University School of Law. Paul Cheng is honored to earn your trust and support for City Council. For more information visit: www.FriendsofPaulCheng.com
(Jan. 18, 2010)
This is one of six blogs provided by ArcadiasBest.com to the six candidates running for three seats on the Arcadia City Council in the April 13, 2010 election.
Candidates are free to submit whatever statements they want here and comment on each other’s blogs.
Readers are encouraged to submit comments below each blog, which will be public for everyone to see, and to which anyone, including the candidates, may respond.
All editiorial by the candidates and comments by readers and the candidates must be approved by ArcadiasBest.com. No profanity will be allowed. Your full name and contact information (contact information not for publication) is required if your comments involve any specific or particularly harsh criticisms or claims that are not generally known or not immediately and easily verifiable.
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As a Baldwin Stocker parent and PTA member, I welcome you to come join any of our school’s event. They did. Our children benefit a lot from Mrs. Hillman and our teachers. From early morning to night sometimes, they dedicate their time to build the future of our children. Thank you for representing us to express our appreciation.
Carol:
Yes, it was s pleasure being at Baldwin Stocker with the volunteer teachers. I was blessed to see so many parents, especially so many fathers.
We cannot achieve the goals for our society without citizens like you.
Thank you (and all the PTA parents) for making this a great city.
Paul
My first meeting with Paul was when he attended a concert I was conducting with 150 First Avenue Middle School students. He heard that our potluck dinner was running low and went into action ordering and delivering 10 pizzas to help out. Since that time I have had the opportunity to hear his position on a number of topics. It is clear to me that he represents all Arcadians, not certain factions of our community. I hope all of us will the take the time to truly see where candidates stand on the issues that affect us. I am sure that you will see that this fresh, young voice will be good for Arcadia.
After reading your candidacy statement on where you stand on the issues, I have a few questions for you; let’s address “PRIDE”, and please be SPECIFIC with your answers.
“P” – While preserving Arcadia’s General Plan, how do you intend on keeping up with demands placed on City services as the City grows, and/or expands, internally? And what could be done to help better prepare those services for future needs?
“R” – How do you intend on reducing traffic within the City, and where would you get the money to do so? Rick Caruso has promised to address his concerns with the traffic issues should he be allowed to build, but if he is not allowed, what are your plans?
“I” – How do you intend on increasing public safety (both in Police and Fire), and are you aware that the police department currently has frozen positions, and the fire department has yet to bring it’s staffing back up to what it was since the layoffs in the fiscal year 97/98? There are costs associated with doing so, and where would you get the money to do this since you stated you would “bring necessary reform to City spending”?
“D” – What areas, regarding City finances and spending, need reform? Has not the City cut all department budgets already, and what more could be done?
“E” – Our citizens already participate in various capacities throughout the City and within the City government, so what programs do you propose that would help the City through these “tough economic” times as you have stated?
I look forward to hearing your answers.
Patricia:
I am sorry, I have not been on the website. Your post of Feb 18 absolutely deserves an answer!
I will be in meetings all day and will get back to you tonight.
Thank you for your patience!
Very Truly Yours,
Paul
Dear Patricia:
Your well thought out question requires detailed answers. As a former Deputy City Attorney these are issues that every city must deal with so I am happy that we can deal with them here.
I have decided the best way to answer your question is section by section and to reduce grammar corrections to get answers to you quickly.
REDUCING TRAFFIC CONGESTION – Depending on the time of day, you can be stuck at a traffic light for several minutes. Promises have been made over the last few years to alleviate citizens’ concerns over traffic congestion. And yet our streets remain clogged. There are several things that we can do to reducing traffic within the city.
One, we must make intersections more efficient by revamping our street lights.
Second, we need to look at tiered pick up and drop offs near our schools.
Third, we need to look at alternative truck routes for small streets.
Revamping Street Lights – In the last 10 years our streets have become muddled with cars. Even on weekends we can find cars upon cars at intersections such as Baldwin/Duarte, Santa Anita/Duarte, Baldwin/Huntington, Holly/Huntington and Santa Anita/Foothill.
How does on change lighting?One way is to change our lighting system from timed to pressure monitors. The most common form is called an inductive loop. What that means is that wires are embedded in the road’s surface and detect when a car comes. It is obvious many of our congested streets occur because of timed lights and a lack of inductive loops.
The second is to actually have monitors centralized at a command post so that the city can automatically change them when traffic times occur or adjust the speed of lights when there is unexpected traffic. (this is more expensive and unlikcly)
Tiered Pickup and Drop-off at Schools – One thing that candidates’ frequently forget is that the school board and city council are mutually exclusive.
Therefore, if you ever get a candidate saying to you that he seeks to improve or change the school system he/she is running for the wrong office.
However, the city council can make an impact in schools via traffic control. Every day, the mass of cars circling each school is exhausting. Gridlock occurs.
I would look into tiered pick up and drop off times for children. Certain parents would be designated for specific times. Some cities that have used tiered times have seen a significant reduction in traffic.
Alternative Truck Routes for Small Streets – Trucks travel throughout the city with little limitation. We must look to see if we can divert some of the larger trucks off of our smaller streets. Case in point is Santa Anita north of Foothill.
If the trucks were not allowed on that street, or limited in time and place, there would be a significant reduction in traffic in the early morning and afternoon hours.
Money – Money is always an issue. Indeed Caruso promised to help out with the additional traffic problems once the project was completed. However, that has been stalled in litigation and subsequent bankruptcy by the racetrack.
We currently have reserves in the city that should be tapped into. Traffic in our city is a big problem.
Caruso Project – Am I for the Caruso project? At this point, that issue is moot because the green light was given to the project.
In my personal opinion I did not think an additional project was necessary. However, if one was built Caruso was one of the best developers we could get.
Patricia…to be continued on your other issues…Thank you.
Patricia:
I have decided that because each issue has too much info that I discuss each issue under a new blog section.
Please see future blogs for my comments.
Thanks.
Paul
Patricia:
I have just uploaded my views on crime in Arcadia. It should be on the website soon.
Paul
If elected you have to understand who you would represent.
The Citizens, not the City Employees. you would be there boss.
thru the City Manager. Do you understand that.
Gino:
Thank you for your comment. A good boss is someone that understands that he or she cannot effectuate their interests without the team.
I know that while you were on council you worked hard to make sure people saw that.
Thanks for your comment.
Paul
I’m glad that we finally have a candidate who is willing to listen to our youth. I feel that students have often been ignored and I wish people can start to realize that the youth can make a difference and improve their community despite their age. As an Arcadia High School student, I have been waiting for someone to reach out to us and create a Youth Commission just like Paul Cheng’s proposal. I am tired of seeing my friends and fellow peers fall victim to drugs, gangs, violence, etc. Students should not have to worry about their safety whenever they go to school -especially in Arcadia. This cost-free solution would really do wonders to our city and its schools. I hope that we can implement this system soon because our schools are in desperate need of it.
To Paul Cheng -
You said that you would remove the chamber photo that you had taken at the Jay Gomez event. It is still posted – it MUST be removed asap. It is against the by-laws of the chamber for me to support a candidate for public office. In fact, I told you when your photographer took the photos that I would not give permission for you to use the photo in any of your campaigning. Once again, you have proven you are not a man of your words – you say one thing and do another. I beleive that is called DISHONESTY!
Sincerely,
Beth Costanza
Executive Director Arcadia Chamber of Commerce
As someone who moved to Arcadia in 1952 and has lived here or in the surrounding area ever since, I want to say that I am extremely impressed with Paul Cheng. He has the nerve to say what many of we “old Arcadians” think, but are reluctant to express. Contrary to what some of the candidates appear to believe, there ARE problems with the two main cultures in Arcadia. While I like to think we welcome everyone in our town, anyone who has been here a while, who will admit it, will tell you they don’t like seeing it “turned into another country.” This does not make anyone a racist, as many fear they will be branded for speaking out. I feel that Paul understands this as well as the desire of the Asian Community to preserve their culture in a new land, but who also would be wise to respect the customs and ways of their new home. As I read the discussion with the candidates in the Arcadia Weekly regarding the signage, I will tell you from my own “study” that many busineses are out of compliance. Baldwin Avenue is a disgrace as the city entrance to our mall, racetrack and Arboretum.
The idea of driving through that tackiness to the “upscale” Caruso Mall is absurd!
Recently I saw a banner on an apartment on Huntington Dr. for the first time and I only hope it’s the last. If this disregard for our standards is allowed to run rampant, as it seems to have been so far, there goes our lovely “community of homes.” If it is not too late for the positive changes that need to be made, I believe Paul is the catalyst to get it going!
Mrs. L. Blocker
Beth:
I have already submitted to the webmaster to get your pictures taken down. I understand that you are not allowed to endorse anyone and I did not imply that you are endorsing me. You were included in a community event and that picture was reflected in our video.
Unfortunately, I am not a webmaster but will tell them again immediately. I am just waiting for them.
I am getting it edited asap.
Thanks.
Paul
I’m sorry but I find so much ironic humor in your blog.
You write, “For purposes of concision, I am getting this blog done quicker than normal. Grammar edits will have to be done by your eyes.”
First off, you say you’re rushing through to be concise, but actually NOT being concise at all! The first sentence SHOULD be, “For concision purposes, I am blogging quicker than normal.” And if THAT wasn’t enough, the next sentence should read, “Grammatical edits will have to be done by your eyes.” That’s a grammatical edit right there.
And the irony doesn’t stop there! You’re writing about crime and the police, yet your writing is like a 9-1-1 call to the Grammar Police.
This is too funny. I don’t mean to pick on you if English is not your native tongue. I’m only finding irony in all this and I trust that like any good politician and their constituency, a good sense of humor will let my comments bring on a chuckle.
Dear Celion:
I am unsure how to respond to this post.
I believe that being American occurs the day that one comes to the United States.
You do not have to wait to become a US Citizen to put in your fair share. Your responsibility as an American occurs from Day One.
Being American and being proud of being Asian do not have to be mutually exclusive. In other words, you do not have to be Anti-American to be Asian.
It is my belief that you are the minority opinion in Arcadia. I believe a majority of Arcadians want someone that can represent all people in Arcadia, no matter where their national origin comes from.
While I appreciate your investigation into the dirty campaigning occurring in this city, I would highly recommend that you reexamine your views regarding who you feel would best represent you.
I am dissapointed that you feel that an Asian candidate should represent only Asian people. I would be highly concerned if the other council candidates have been preaching an Asian-first philosophy.
If a Caucasion candidate spoke to Arcadians in a White-only policy they would be labeled a racist. Perhaps we should use the same standard on ourselves.
Best,
Paul
This is phenomenal. Finally a candidate I, not just as a citizen of Arcadia, but as a STUDENT at Arcadia High School, can put my trust in. There was an incident on Lemon recently, and that is only a few houses down from mine. We need to round up our community and build a tighter framework. I noticed no other candidate addressed this issue of public safety but Paul Cheng, and that worries me because how can we live as happy Arcadians if there is crime in our city? You may call me paranoid, but if I was the unlucky one a few houses down that had lost a large sum of money and my dignity, or if any of us was, we’d be saying otherwise. Paul Cheng is the right man with the right vision. He has the support of the student population of Arcadia.
Also, a note on the top comment. I don’t want to offend you, but you seem to be supporting a candidate without presenting your stance. If you are going to throw radical and offensive and even illogical ideas around, I hope you can do so privately. It is BECAUSE Paul was a prosecutor that he knows what he is doing. “Illegal” tends to have a negative connotation- in Arcadia, we’re trying to make it as law-abiding yet citizen-approving as we can manage.
Over the weekend, a sign from Paul Cheng’s camp showed up on my front yard without seeking permission first. Does that reflect how this candidate might do his city business in the future?
Paul – You mentioned you are willing to work for the citizens of Arcadia for $1 per year. Is this because you have a hidden agenda. Are you being paid off by the Caruso team (like Gail Marshall was) to get that Mall project through? Who would actually be a public servant for $1 a year? Even Arnold ended up giving in to special interest groups.
Paul,
I am very impressed with your response to Celion.
Sadly, it is people like him who will keep the “separation” alive here in Arcadia. All over the world there are those who would give anything to become an American citizen. Since Celion does not feel like a “real American,” perhaps he should move over for someone who would!
I want to believe, as you do, that his views are in the minority.
I’d like to continue being known as the “Community of Homes,” not as a town divided in half, where racism gets votes in our city elections!
Your appeal is that you will work for ALL of us and that’s what Arcadia needs!
It’s the first time I came to this website, but just reading a few comments, it cracks me up. Miss Celion Lee profoundly said she’s been living in this country for 25 yrs and still don’t consider herself as ‘American’, I guess I don’t have to continue reading what she had to say anymore…Electing a city council doesn’t mean to elect someone who talks and eats like certian race, rather someone who can work for all the Arcadians, whether they are Whites, Chinese, Indians or Hispanic. Sho Tay seems like a nice guy, but by looking at his resume, he talked about running business in Asian market for years, that includes a shooting range, a loan company and a web company (as I heard he and his wife are producers for Amway and the Amway sponsored website was what he’s referring), that doesn’t strike me as working for the Asian community, rather making a living in the Asian market. Miss Celion, I suggest you move to a country that makes you feel like a ‘True’ citizen.
Moreover, I was an immigrant from Hong Kong and has been living in the US for 30 yrs…I love this country! Good luck to you Paul! You strike me as a very sincere and competent young fellow, you get my vote for sure!
It is refreshing to see a candidate reaching out to ALL residents in Arcadia. It’s clear that people such as Mrs. Lee earlier on the board feel that only Asians should be represented, and this is the very reason I cannot support Sho Tay or Jason Lee. Arcadia needs a council that unifies the people rather than addressing the people as two separate groups. I applaud you Paul for addressing Arcadia as a whole rather than in a segregated fashion.
We have had the virtually the same City Council members cycled through for years and they only put quick profit before the long term well being of the city. Keeping the status quo is driving this city into the ground. Council members who live in Homeowners Association areas have long turned a blind eye to South Arcadia where traffic is out of control, home demolition and overbuilding is occurring at an alarming rate, and streets such as Baldwin Ave, Duarte Rd, and Live Oak Ave. fail to attract quality businesses.
The two biggest threats to Arcadia right now:
1. Lack of quality businesses. Let’s face it, aside from the mall and Huntington Drive, there are few quality places to shop/eat at in Arcadia. We keep losing businesses to Monrovia and Pasadena. I look at La Canada, Glendora, Monrovia, and even Azusa, where they have large shopping centers with great diversity in shops and restaurants, and I look at Arcadia which has had NOTHING new and exciting come into the city in recent years. I’m told that Monrovia, Pasadena, and Glendora actively work with businesses and encourage them to locate there. Arcadia could learn a lesson here. Why can’t Arcadia have a Chipotle? Why can’t Arcadia have a Barnes & Noble? Why can’t Arcadia get Ross to come back? Why can’t Arcadia have corporate stores for wireless carriers such as Verizon and AT&T? We obviously haven’t done enough to make Arcadia attractive to high quality businesses. Maybe Westfield is keeping competition out? and if so, why are we allowing that?
2. Housing density and lack of preservation. What once made Arcadia great, low density neighborhoods, modest-upscale housing, abundance of trees, and overall cleanliness of the city. Unfortunately past city councils haven’t taken the housing issue seriously. Historic homes add a long term value to a city, and if they are to be carelessly torn down for a quick property tax gain, then what does Arcadia have to fall back on? What incentive does anyone have to fix up their homes or take pride of ownership when hungry developers are pounding on the door trying to drive them out? Between the constant building of condos, and well as monster mansions used as multi-family residences (labeled as single family residences), Arcadia is facing a population crisis in the near future. High density neighborhoods WILL negatively impact property values withing the city.
So many people point to demographic shifts and racial tensions for why Arcadia is a “lost cause”, but I don’t see it that way. The United States was made great by diverse people who put their differences aside for common goals, and came to a common understanding. In Arcadia’s case, we must form a compromise of the new and old. Preserve the things that made Arcadia great in the first place, calling on history, and form a clear mission. If we can do this, people will respect what is already here. San Marino has had similar demographic shifts, yet their history has been preserved and the newcomers respect the traditions that have been in place.
Paul,
You spend $70,000 for running? I can’t believer it!
I am well-equipped and ready to represent all Arcadians regardless of their ethnicity. There is no Asian Arcadia, or Caucasian Arcadia. There is only one Arcadia.
Dear Terry:
Yes, I have spent $70,000 in running. I can’t believe it either.
Portions of that money was spent so that individuals, like you Terry, could feel welcome in meeting me. (Campaign office – 1 W. Duarte Rd. #B, Arcadia, CA).
In addition, I have also had to deal with a person(s) that have made defamatory statements against our campaign which include sending out mailers, driving around in a car, screaming at volunteers, etc.
Much money has been spent refuting many of the statements by him.
Call my office if you have any additional questions.
Thanks!
Paul
I’ve noticed that a few of the comments on this blog come off as being accusatory without fully knowing the situations. As voters in the city of Arcadia, let us all keep our eyes and minds opened. It’s important to always question, question, and question. There have been many incidents of blackmail in this particular election and it’s easy to point fingers immediately. However, please stand back and carefully assess the issues. We do not want to become instruments of manipulation. Go to the city election debates and forums and meet the candidates. Signs do no justice for the candidates themselves. Decide the future of Arcadia by speaking to and meeting the candidates in person.
I did- I made my choice.
Dear Brett M:
Below is an article regarding the signage issue:
http://arcadiaweekly.com/featured/signs-of-change-language-at-issue-in-arcadis-heated-city-council-race/
As you can see I was one of only two candidates that was willing to take a hardline stance against it.
It will be impossible to get grade “A” businesses apart from the mall if we refuse to enforce the law.
Thanks.
Paul
Frank:
Indeed, I am willing to work for $1 per year.
It is my hope that in doing so we can set a tone that tells everyone within the city, employee and Arcadian that everyone needs to put in their fair share. And that the city council will lead the way in doing so.
I am befuddled that we can have an initial shortfall of $2.6 Million and still allow city councilmembers to derive a financial benefit. (See Page 9 of Budget http://www.ci.arcadia.ca.us/docs/final_operating__budget_book_09-10.pdf: “The budget included a number of changes including numerous cuts that were needed to reduce an initial shortfall of about $2.6 million in the General Fund to under $600,000″)
In addition to a salary we also get health benefits as well.
I am refusing all of them.
I hope that helps you in understanding my thoughts.
Thanks.
Paul
Hi,Paul
I am very impressed by the way how you handle certain issues, and it was very nice talking to you this weekend. You have my vote!
As a citizen of Arcadia, I and my son, Christian, have always enjoyed the wonderful life the City has to offer as well as the generous spirit and kindness of the citizenry and public officials. I was Vice-president of Continental Enterprises, a large corporation that purchased and developed commercial real estate properties in the South Myrtle Corridor in Monrovia, at a time when few developers would venture the risk. Those anchor properties were on Myrtle and Lemon, Myrtle and Lime and Colorado and Myrtle Avenue. In addition, I owned my own retail store, Barby’s Baby Boutique. In this capacity, I was responsible for public relations and took innumerable photographs with the citizenry for fundraisers, candidates for state and local political campaigns, celebrities who frequented our businesses, as well as television and radio personalities. The Monrovia Chamber of Commerce President was often included in these photographs in an effort to promote City business, and was supportive of the press releases in that endeavor. We were never publicly reprimanded for their publication. In that regard, the hostile posting by (Arcadia Chamber of Commerce executive director) Beth Costanza was outrageous. Certainly, your questionable objection regarding the use of the less than flattering photograph by Mr. Cheng did not require a public rebuke and disparaging character assault. The courteous thing to do, would have been to call Mr. Cheng and alert him to any concerns. I did note that there is a photograph of you taken at an independent event that is currently and prominently being displayed on the website of another candidate. Your lack of objection to this posting appears to be, in my opinion, “DISHONEST,” and would be according to your statement, a violation of your by-laws and support of a candidate. It is my belief, that your posting does not reflect impartial good will that your position dictates, but rather shows arrogance and abuse of authority of said position. Mr. Paul Cheng has many photographs available to use in his campaign with prominent community and civic leaders of character. I would hope that the Arcadia Chamber of Commerce would reflect the Arcadia generosity of spirit in all future communications, and not issue an inconsiderate and dissonant rebuke of a fine candidate.
Dr. Barbarina Zwicky, h.c.
Thanks to all those that came on Saturday to meet and greet Andre Quintero, Mayor of El Monte.
We were blessed to receive an award from him for our work as a former Deputy City Attorney.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1BDn3K_4FqY
As a council man you are a representative community you serve…
the community you serve has a large Chinese population.
As an Asian candidate you represent the Asian community as a whole.
How do you feel you relate and connect to the Asian community in Arcadia?
Are you part of any Asian organization in Arcadia?
Why do you believe that you will be a good representation as an Asian councilman?
How do you plan communicate the importance of community unity and growth to a population that has no concern for the well being and growth control of the neighborhood which they live in? (Unsure if you speak or read Chinese from what you said on you at the womens club about the not able to read the signs on Baldwin.)
Our people are loyal to our kind, in hope that they will be able to communicate with their councilman to protect them. I hope that you are not just playing the ASIAN CARD for votes.
RE: GOT RICE? In regards to the Asian signs, THIS IS the UNITED STATES and our language should be ENGLISH.
RE: Dr. Zwicky………On behalf of many long time Arcadians, I would like to thank you for speaking up in regards to Beth Costanza’s big deal regarding the photo with candidate Paul Cheng. Hmmm seems that many of us agree that Beth Constanza really went over the line…..Time for a change in the Chamber perhaps?
Dear Sir or Madam:
I agree that I represent the community.
I also agree that the community has a large Chinese population.
I do not agree that I should represent only Asian people.
I am a proud American and represent all people here in Arcadia.
Being an American occurs the first day that you come to this country. You do not have to be a US Citizen to be an American. Putting in your fair share occurs from Day One.
I do think that being Asian American allows me to have a unique perspective which will benefit all Arcadians.
I also think that being the only person that has ever worked on city council issues as a non-politician will be a huge advantage if the citizens will give me the opportunity to serve.
It is unfortunate that many people feel they have to cater to one race to get votes. I suppose being the only candidate that has been raised in the United States that also speaks Mandarin makes me believe that I can be fully American and appreciate my roots at the same time.
Thank you.
Anyone who thinks you need to have held a public office to be a good public servant, is missing the main reason he is a good candidate. He doesn’t have all the public interest ties and pressures. He can evaluate the issues and make judgements. I would rather have an educated non office candidate for the city council. (I notice Mr. Cheng used to be a prosecutor for the city of Hesperia too)
As I understand Paul Cheng’s approach, he wants to do what is best for the city as a whole. His pragmatic approach – fiscal responsibility with the public’s money and a moderate approach to dealing with social issues will be good for Arcadia.
Anyway, a fresh face sounds appealing to me.
Paul,
You have some nice comments here. Congratulations.
You have repeatedly indicated that you do not shop in Arcadia. I hope that you start to shop in Arcadia so that we have more sales tax to earn.
Besides, why i should vote for a person who does not patronize our businesses in Arcadia.
Penske is not in town, Rusnak is. Just want to point out the misinformation you gave to Arcadia Weekly.
With regards to Beth C’s comments about the photo, that is harsh, i agree.
Maybe because you are not her favored candidate because you do not shop in Arcadia.
Good luck.
Dr. Chang:
Thank you. I am glad that you raise this comment. Of course, I would love to shop more in my city than I currently I do. However, like many Arcadians, I feel the businesses in Arcadia have been dwarfed by either the mall (which has too much traffic) or other businesses that only cater to a few specific ethnicities.
That makes other cities like Monrovia, Sierra Madre, and Pasadena which have many more mom and pop stores a more desired destination that many Arcadians go to.
That is why I have been very focused on revitalizing Downtown Arcadia. To do so, we need to bring in more diverse businesses. Many cities in the San Gabriel Valley have been able to do so although they have high minority populations. Example are Alhambra = Main St., Monrovia = Myrtle, Pasadena = Old Town and Lake Ave., South Pasadena = Mission District.
We also need to enforce our sign ordinance. If we are to create a diverse business environment, welcoming to all races, we cannot allow the violation of current statutes to continue. (http://arcadiaweekly.com/featured/signs-of-change-language-at-issue-in-arcadis-heated-city-council-race/) It can be done. San Marino does not have this problem.
I am very concerned because people do not realize that increasing income is always difficult if you focus on only one portion of a city and/or one specific group in the community.
I believe that if we focus on bringing in a diverse business environment that Arcadians will feel more welcome in our own city, and therefore shop. Not just because it is the PC thing to do but because we actually want to.
Of course I shop in Arcadia. But it is unfortunate that in such a beautiful city like this, I do not feel an overwhelming feeling to spend all my money here. That is why I have been emphasizing the need for Arcadia to become more welcome to all Arcadians and for this city to remain the Community of Homes.
I’m a mom with 3 kids and our family has been living in Arcadia for almost 8 years. I have to say Arcadia indeed is one of the most beautiful cities we’ve lived in and we feel Arcadia is the best place for our home. Me and my three daughters we often like to spend our Saturday at malls. Pasadena old town has been on top of our priority list because we feel much more comfortable for the diverse business enviroment they have there.
If we can have some more places like this where everybody feels comfortable regardless of ethnicities, of course we would love to spend more of our money in Arcadia.
I agree with Mr. Cheng’s approach and I also feel very glad that finally somebody who can understand the issue from their unique perspective is able to carry on the burden to reduce the racial concern and keep a good balance inside the city.
Sandra,
This is the United States and English is a primary language, but under the constitution we do have a freedom of speech and right to publish in any language we want. I agree that there should be a regulation on the Asian characters on business signs, but to completely remove the characters or prevent Arcadia’s Mom and Pop shops to represent their heritage is unAmerican. Please remember if it wasn’t for the Asian parents and students that reside in the city of Arcadia, the schools GPA would not be rated as high and Baldwin Ave and Duarte Ave would be full of empty shops much like Las Tunas in Temple City. The Asian business might have infested Arcadia, it is because no other business wanted to step into Arcadia or for that matter was able to stay alive in Arcadia due to the economy. I do miss the old Arcadia restaurants and burger shacks that I grew up with. I would even concluded that the Asian businesses are saving the economy of Arcadia.
Paul,
I don’t believe you answered my question, if you want my Asian vote please try not to avoid my questions, like a typical politician.
-Why do you believe that you will be a good representation as an Asian councilman? People see you as your skin tone, therefore you represent all Asians.
-How do you feel you relate and connect to the Asian community in Arcadia?
-Are you part of any Asian organization in Arcadia? Or served the Arcadia Community in any volunteer aspects?
-How do you plan communicate the importance of community unity and growth to a population that has no concern for the well being and growth control of the neighborhood which they live in?
I believe that you have a strong political campaign team and have been able to market yourself to the young votes of AHS students and even reached out to the general voting population, which is unheard of in the history of Arcadia elections not to mention the amount of money spent on this election (most in Arcadia’s history, I hope that the candidates are using Arcadia businesses for print and labor). I hope that this election does not end up like high school campaign with the person who has the most signs, flyers, and candy wins. Voters should be well informed and make mature decision that this is a city election and will affect our city for the many years to come, not just the next one year. Let the most qualified candidate win, not the most likable.
Dear Got Rice:
While I respect your comments (and questions) I have already told you that I will represent all people in Arcadia, regardless of color. It has been a big concern that other candidates have made this a race debate. As previously stated, we are all Americans.
I also believe I relate very well to the Asian community in Arcadia. I think they are tired of electing someone based solely on race. They want someone to get things done for all Arcadians. I cannot tell you the amount of people that are burned out with voting for candidates based solely on the color of their skin.
I am not part of any Asian organization in Arcadia. Instead, I am involved in organizations and events that have nothing to do with race: Arcadia Law Day, Kiwanis Club, Lion’s Club, Methodist Hospital, First Avenue, Baldwin Stocker, adult day care centers, etc.
The issues that bind us are great. The issues that divide us are very small. Everyone is concerned about their children, the budget, traffic, crime, etc. That is how I would plan to communicate the importance of community unity and growth. Focus on the things that everyone cares about.
We have a strong campaign because people understand the value of a different perspective. Just as a basketball team has five unique positions, so should city council. It would be illogical to have five of the exact same people serving on council. People want distinctive individuals because doing so makes any decision that much better and well thought out.
I have always stated to people, who will be the candidate to think outside of the box? Who will have new and fresh ideas to this city so that this city can move into the next generation?
For instance, we should look into solar panels for not only our public buildings but work with private citizens if they seek to put solar panels on their homes. The rate of return is 5 years (commercial) and 7.5 years (residential). Thereafter, we will have a positive cash flow into our city coffers.
We should look to collectively negotiate an internet rate for all homes in Arcadia. Cities that have done so have seen a huge drop in internet prices and an additional revenue stream between $200-500K per year.
It is my belief that we have offered the out of the box thinking that many citizens want, and this city needs. We must be forward thinking and not just rest on past accomplishments.
Lastly, in a previous post you responded to Sandra. No one is saying that there should be an all out removal of foreign language signs. Just that we have an ordinance in place and should enforce it accordingly.
Hope that answers your questions.
Referring to the basketball analogy that you made.
What position do you think is missing from our current council?
What strengths do you bring to the court?
Who is the weakest player on the council now?
Why do you think you will be able to make the city council better?
Who else do you feel will fit well on the council after this election?
Got Rice:
My comments are responded to below
Referring to the basketball analogy that you made.
What position do you think is missing from our current council?
A person that can think out of the box. There is a lot of commentary about issues in Arcadia. A lot of commentary without enough doing = lack of improvement in Arcadia.
Anyone can talk about the budget, traffic, children, safety, etc., but who has actually put out their platform. Who has actually put out logical and feasible solutions to get the city going? I am proud to say that our campaign has put out the positive solutions that can be implemented immediately. See http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZv8O2OPsow&feature=channel for an example)
What strengths do you bring to the court?
A unique and can-do attitude to resolving city issues. You do not want five identical city council members. I am not a yes-man. I am here to get things done.
For instance, statements have been made that there is no way to get rid of the city’s illegal massage parlors. (See LA Times article – 700 massage licenses dolled out in only three years — http://articles.latimes.com/2008/oct/28/local/me-massage28)
If you pass a city ordinance stating that no massage parlor is allowed to have tinted windows and must have video cameras installed to monitor those that go in the illegal businesses will move out immediately.
Who is the weakest player on the council now?
No comment
Why do you think you will be able to make the city council better?
I am the only person that has ever worked inside of a City Council as a non-politician. I think people are tired of politicians and want someone to tackle issues. It’s not going to be easy but it will be right and I know Arcadians want that in a City Councilman.
Who else do you feel will fit well on the council after this election?
I think that I will be able to work with anyone after the election. However, I especially appreciate Mickey’s encouragement and mentorship throughout this election process. I want a straight-shooter and he has held nothing back, good or bad, regarding city finances and the issues that face our city.
My husband and I recently purchased a home in Arcadia. We had been looking for a house in South Pasadena for years, but just did not find a house we absolutely love. We resisted Arcadia for a long time because of the large Asian population. Even though we are Chinese, we wanted to live in a community with less Asians. We also wish for this community to be maintained as a “community of homes”. We dislike all the newer mansions (less than 10 years old) that have popped up everywhere around Arcadia. They all look alike, all look tacky, and all look too large for their lots. What was the building department thinking when they approved all those houses to be built? I feel like I am in Temple City or Rosemead.
We miss living next to Lake Ave. in Pasadena and being able to walk to so many great coffee shops, restaurants, grocery stores, dry cleaners, banks, and other retail stores. However, we plan to live in Arcadia for the long haul and we, too, wish for better and more local retail. I would love to see a nice, big farmers market in Arcadia (like South Pasadena, Pasadena and Monrovia). To be honest, I do 95% of my shopping outside of Arcadia. I think the Gold Line extension running through Arcadia will be fabulous for the city. The farmers market can be set up in that vacant piece of land on the east side of Santa Anita Ave., next to REI and the public lot and near the future Gold Line stop in Arcadia. It would be kind of like the South Pasadena farmers market location.
I wish the Asian candidates, you included, would stop sending campaign materials written in Chinese to my home address. I may have been born in Hong Kong, but I have lived in the US since I was 9 months old. I am a proud US citizen who also celebrates my Chinese heritage. To assume anyone in our household reads Chinese is a highly arrogant presumption. I immediately swore off voting for any candidate who sends campaign materials to my house written in Chinese only.
I thought the campaign materials written in Chinese ticked me off. Then, one day while I was standing in my driveway, Jason Lee’s wife walks up to me. She was going door to door on behalf of her husband. At one point in our conversation, she told me to vote for her husband because he is Chinese. That really ticked off! I immediately ended our conversation by telling her I will vote for the BEST candidates.
So, as I mentioned earlier, I was ready to not vote for you or any other of the Asian candidates. Tonight I stumbled upon this blog almost by accident and read every entry. I am starting to think you might really mean it when you say you will represent all Arcadians.
I have a few more days to think about which three candidates I will vote for before I mail in my ballot, but thank you and the people who posted on this blog for sharing your views. It has been really helpful.
P.S. I received a letter (more like a packet) addressed to the Citizens of Arcadia tonight telling us not to give our votes to you. It was written in English and Chinese. I found no credibility in the letter whatsoever because the grammar was so poor!
Lynn:
Thank you for the encouragement. I admit that it is somewhat stereotypical and insulting for someone to presume that one reads Chinese if they have an Asian American name. I too have received documentation from candidates (Asian and non-Asian) that want me to support them in characters that I cannot read.
Please call my office 626-446-2200 or email me at: paul@friendsofpaulcheng.com to have your name taken off that list.
Also, I am not sure the letter you have received. I understand there are several. One insults my mother. Another questions my qualifications. Another that says I will hurt Chinese people and refuse to help overseas Chinese.
I am proud of the fact that I was a former Deputy City Attorney for the City of Hesperia. (See http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1BDn3K_4FqY for award received from Mayor Andre Quintero, Mayor of El Monte).
I am not proud of the fact of the dirty politics used in this campaign.
I believe in Arcadians. I trust their intellectual abilities.
And I believe that Arcadians want a person that will think outside of the box and give a unique perspective to resolving city issues. Candidates (or third parties) that have used hate mail to effectuate their interests will not achieve their objectives.
And without sounding offensive my responsibility is not to Chinese people in other countries. My responsibility is for the people that reside in the parameters of this city and this city only. I will fight for them. And in the face of any type of dirty politics, I will stand firm in my principles, and keep Arcadia the Community of Homes.
Thanks again for your encouragement.
Got Rice,
You sure can talk the talk………………….you know what follow’s ? Your April 5 response to Sandra should be re-thought but, then again your description of the Arcadia business’s being mostly Asian using the word “infested” by the way was that a verb or adjective in that case, brings to mind the B and C rating of some of those establishments! You think they saved a city, they have done nothing but ruin one. Before you start referencing the CONSTITUTION I suggest you pick up a rifle and defend it, if you have you get the benefit of the doubt, if not……………..
Interesting race for the city council this term … by the emails, facebook and fliers in my post box something is going on. At church people are talking about it, at Ralph’s, even at the gas station. Personally I am taken by Mr. Cheng and his frankness and willingness to engage change. I’ve never had a conversation with a politician in Arcadia that amount to a “hill of beans” until now!
The recent malicious attacks sent out against Paul Cheng have the absolute intent of spreading falsehood and baseless fear to the citizens. This effort has been to such an extent, that it cannot have simply been a lone venture, but rather appears to be a concerted and incessant campaign that is clearly organized with professional undertones. The reason for such an assault is unknown but appears to be political in nature. Every accusation that has been made is an absolute falsehood or embellishment, and fails to camouflage an illogical deficiency of expression.
Paul Cheng is the most qualified candidate for a seat on the Arcadia City Council. Arcadia is arguably the greatest community in California, but to say that the status quo is acceptable is unconscionable. There is always room for improvement and there are many problems facing our City that still need to be addressed. These problems have arisen and fossilized under the tenure and during the terms of many candidates who are now running for election. They have repeatedly failed to address the concerns of the citizenry and now it is time for the people to answer and vote for change in this election. Paul plans to work with every citizen to create a better future for all. He has proven that he is easily accessible, remaining the only candidate that has opened a campaign office to meet the people of the City despite the potential risk for harassment from hostile opponents. Addressing the concerns of Arcadians is Paul’s primary goal, and he can continue to do so if he is entrusted with a position on the Arcadia City Council.
Paul’s campaign has always been for the citizens of Arcadia and the important issues of concern. Not once has he advanced against an individual running for the same position with intrusive siege, but has always adhered to proper and courteous rules of engagement and etiquette in his campaign. This campaign should be about the citizens and should not be confined to disputes between the candidates, while the important issues are being ignored. Perhaps it is wishful thinking on my part to desire that the citizens be placed before a campaign, but it is an idea on which Paul Cheng has based his entire campaign and is reflective of his outstanding character. Personal and baseless attacks show just the opposite. Keep this election abut the issues. Please consider one of your votes for Paul Cheng on April 13, 2010.
Christian Zwicky
Age 16