Published: July 04, 2009

Controversial CNN Ad attacking Wal-Mart, Lancaster Mayor Previewed Monday

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QUARTZ HILL - A citizen group here will run hardhitting television commercials starting this weekend on CNN, Fox News and other major cable news channels opposing plans to build Wal-Mart SuperCenter - that sells tobacco, alcohol and ammunition - directly across the street from a school.

A NEWS CONFERENCE to provide details will be held MONDAY, 10 a.m. near the high school (corner Avenue L and 60th St. West) by Quartz Hill Cares. Members of the business community and residents will attend.

The ads come on the heels of a letter Thursday by Los Angeles County 5th District Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich opposing the development of two new shopping centers (Wal-Mart and Target) in Quartz Hill.

The Quartz Hill Town Council, Chamber of Commerce and teachers and parents also oppose the projects.

The commercials accuse Lancaster Mayor R. Rex Parris of "exporting crime" to Quartz Hill and "endangering" school children for supporting the developments, which are referred to as "crime project(s)."

"Let's stop this crazy plan to hurt our kids, pollute our air and cannibalize small business," warns a stern-sounding voice in the commercials, which implore residents to attend the Lancaster Planning Commission meeting about the projects Tuesday at 6 p.m.