Visions of Arcadia

This anthology is a collection of reflections, remembrances, recollections, a few photographs and probably more than a few myths by and about Arcadians over its first one hundred years. It documents the life of a hometown from the perspective of those who were able to see, hear, touch, and even taste many of its bountiful offerings. As you navigate the chapters of this book, you will read about chicken ranches, walnut trees, and sweet corn. You will visit a balloon school, pony express museum, assembly center, arboretum, and racetrack. You will dine at long-gone eateries. You will hop on a Red Car, ride a horse, fly in a B-29, visit a movie set, rush to the emergency room, and learn to drive in Santa Anita's vast parking lot. You will see the 210 Freeway come and Anoakia go. You will experience the excitement of a police chase, the thrill of playing with the Apache marching band, the fear of a hillside fire, the confusion of a new language, and the anguish of being interned in your own country. You will be inspired by the care, concern, tolerance, and optimism displayed by Arcadians old and new; and frustrated by occasional acts of apathy. se1fishness, and ignorance. You will see Fourth of July fireworks explode in the sky, hear peacocks scream, touch snow on a sunny winter afternoon, and even taste Armenian paklava. You will meet individuals who have made a real difference: volunteers, educators, doctors, community leaders, and civil servants; and join civic organizations that continue to serve those in need.