Dear sirs:
When we listen to the thoughts of others we have the opportunity to reduce our mistakes. Our differences lead to growth. Everyone likes the idea of progress, but few people like the idea of change.
As a city, we should cherish and honor the chance – the opportunity – to head in a new direction. There are changes facing Whittier and some of us might not have as much control over these changes as they would like. We only have control over ourselves.
Never expect everyone to agree 100 percent with you. I don’t. Other people have ideas and thoughts just as valid as yours.
To recognize this makes one a mature, civilized member of society and elevates the level of our civilization and our society.
Some people are worried about the change to our electoral system here in Whittier. Does not change reinvigorate us as a city? The issue is not about voting rights … the issue is what is fair and equitable for Whittier as a whole.
We must not place limits on ourselves and what is possible. We must break up some of our restricted thinking. Let’s choose the direction we want to go as a city and turn our dreams, hopes, ideas and thoughts into possibilities. Don’t let changes made by others disturb you.
A new electoral system could bring Whittier back to life. It could make us vibrant once again. But changing our electoral system is a public endeavor. People have to get involved.
When I see our car dealerships, our markets such as Albertson’s, and other businesses that have given up on Whittier reduce our local sales tax revenue it is only logical to believe that to remain financially strong and to sustain our fiscal growth we need to make a change.
We need to make that choice – that decision – in our June 2014 special election that fits our needs.
God bless America, pray for and thank our active troops and our veterans, and think positive about the future of Whittier.

Arthur Rock
Whittier