Creative Housing Options in Arcadia (CHOA). Local efforts to address the lack of affordable housing and homelessness. On Saturday, April 20, 2024, a group of about 30 community members met at The Hills Church in Arcadia for a 2-hour "Sharing Session" to learn about what is being done in the city to address these issues. Safe Parking Programs were discussed. Arcadia City Council member Eileen L. Wang and Arcadia Mayor April Verlato attended.
Old Town Monrovia's Underdog Bookstore--an LGBTQ-owned book shop uplifting diverse authors and local presses--fights intolerance with inventory. Bookseller Muse Lee was confronted by a customer, a woman who felt "oppressed as a white person" and voiced objections that included racism and homophobia. Emily Lindley-Rodriguez, who works in Arcadia, is saddened to hear of the hate experienced at Underdog.
Los Angeles County Arboretum celebrates 75th anniversary with an Arboretum Foundation fundraiser event honoring Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger for her ongoing support. The event raised $241,000 for the education programs and care of the 125 acre Arboretum gardens and landmark structures. Also in attendance Michael Desplaines, CEO of the Arboretum, Susan Kranwinkle, Annette Castro Ramirez, and Pamela Hillings Tegtmeyer (all in photos).
Pasadena Pops presents in concert "Michael Feinstein Sings Broadway" at the Los Angeles County Arboretum, July 29. Future concerts include "The Music of Queen" on August 26 and "Hollywood Blockbusters" on September 9.
Los Angeles County Arboretum selects new CEO, Michael Desplaines. He has more than two decades of experience in historic property development and restoration, public garden management, environmental education and fundraising. He begins in July. He previously served as president and CEO of the Norfolk Botanical Garden in Virginia. He replaces Richard Schulhof, who retired after 14 years as CEO.
All-Area Girls Soccer. Mimi Dominguez from Bishop Amat is Player of the Year. First Team Midfielder Skye Escobedo and Defender Destiny Delgado are from Arcadia. Second Team Midfielder Alaina Lee and Goalkeeper Ainsley Stephenson are from Arcadia.
Rod's Grill, Arcadia's beloved classic diner, announces its closure after nearly 70 years. Closing date will be Sunday, February 12, 2023. It is located at 41 West Huntington Drive, along Historic Route 66. The diner began as a small chain of restaurants in 1946, with the Arcadia location opening in 1957.
Monterey Park shooting aftermath. Lunar New Year is typically a festive and family affair, but was marred by a mass shooting in Monterey Park, which killed 10 at a dance hall. David Lee, co-president of Arcadia Chinese Association, said Lunar New Year is supposed to be "a happy time for family reunions because Chinese tradition and culture is very family-oriented."
California Attorney General Rob Bonta allows lawsuit over Arcadia City Council appointment to proceed. HQH Chinese American Equalization Association and Arcadia Voters Rights Group are suing to challenge the appointment of Michael Danielson, representing District 5, which was vacant after the death of Council Member Roger Chandler. Danielson's term expires upon certification of the November 8 election results.
Horse dies from training injury at Santa Anita Park. Echosmith, a baby gelding, 3-years-old, from Ireland died Sunday. The horse was owned by Benowitz Family Trust, CYBT, Michael Nentwig, and Ray Pagano. His trainer was Jonathan Wong and jockey was Jessica Pyfer.
Pasadena Pops concert at the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden. Michael Feinstein conducts the orchestra in music made famous by Judy Garland, Doris Day, Peggy Lee and Liza Minelli on August 13 at 7:30. Guest performers include Melissa Manchester, Nicole Henry and Maddie Baillio.
Arcadia's Vietnam War Monument redecorated by Chris Tran and his fellow Boy Scouts Troop 104, with funds donated by Jason Lee, an Arcadia lawyer and City Council candidate for District 5. The City of Arcadia's 24th annual tribute to Veterans and Military Families will be held on Saturday, May 28, 10-1 at Arcadia County Park. The event is hosted by Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger.
Arcadia High School receives several local donations after hosting 27th annual Orchestra Benefit Dinner, a rundraising event for Arcadia Music Club. Jason Lee is pictured. He is an Arcadia City Council candidate.
Arcadia's Jason Lee donates $10,000 to Arcadia Police Foundation. He presented the check to Mary E. Hansen, the founding board member and Vice President of the Arcadia Police Foundation.