🌟 Hey MAD crew, welcome and happy October 22, 2025! 🍂

Consider this your small civic act for the day: share the useful thing. Add a note, toss in an emoji, and hit send. No subscriptions, no upsells just a free brief that helps people stay connected to our community. 

Discover upcoming community events, school fundraisers, and local news from across our beautiful San Gabriel Valley.

Stay curious, stay inspired, and as always, thanks for being part of The MAD Insider community! 💛 

Remember that Kindness is free. Sprinkle it everywhere.

🏆 Duarte Honors Route 66 Parade Committee for Reviving a Beloved Tradition

At its October 14 City Council meeting, the City of Duarte proudly recognized the Route 66 Parade Committee for bringing back one of the community’s most beloved events, the Duarte Route 66 Parade.

After a brief pause, the parade made a triumphant return this year under the inspiring theme “City of Champions.” The celebration once again filled Historic Route 66 with the sounds of marching bands, the rumble of classic cars, and the cheers of residents and visitors alike,  a true display of Duarte’s community pride and resilience.

The comeback wouldn’t have been possible without the dedicated volunteers of the Parade Committee, who spent countless hours planning, coordinating, and rallying local organizations to make the event a success.

Their teamwork and commitment embody the very spirit of Duarte, a city built on unity, enthusiasm, and hometown pride.

The City extends its heartfelt thanks to the Parade Committee for rekindling this cherished tradition and continuing the legacy of celebrating Duarte’s vibrant history along the Mother Road.

A local nonprofit, Working Dogs For Warriors, is healing heroes right here in the Inland Empire.

The organization trains and donates service dogs to veterans and first responders struggling with PTSD and other service-related challenges.

Founded in 2016, its mission was nearly cut short when co-founder Daniel Gamboa tragically passed away the same month its nonprofit status was approved.

The devastating loss almost halted their vision entirely.

However, an outpouring of community support inspired the remaining founders, Michael and Daisy Welsh, to persevere in Daniel’s honor.

Today, from their base in Rancho Cucamonga, they provide a lifeline to our bravest citizens.

Their incredible work was recently honored, as they were named the 2024 Nonprofit of the Year for the district, proving how purpose can rise from pain.

🚔 Stealth on the Streets: What You Should Know About the New Patrol Vehicles

(Photo Courtesy of the California Highway Patrol FB Page)

If you’ve spotted a sleek black, silver, or gray SUV on California’s highways and wondered whether it’s really from law enforcement — good catch. The state’s highway patrol agency is rolling out a new fleet of low-profile “specially marked patrol vehicles”, designed to blend in more with traffic. 

These cars still bear official decals, but they depart from the traditional black-and-white paint jobs. The shift raises an important question for drivers: how can you tell if the vehicle that pulls you over is legitimate — and not someone impersonating an officer?

🔍 How to Verify a Legitimate Traffic Stop

These guidelines come straight from the agency’s public statements and reporting about the new vehicle rollout:

• The vehicles remain official law enforcement cars — they have visible insignia and meet legal requirements for marked vehicles.
  

• Under California law, any traffic officer vehicle used for routine enforcement must display distinctive coloring or markings as defined in Vehicle Code § 40800 and California Code of Regulations Title 13 § 1141. 2

• If you’re unsure during a stop, you’re within your rights to call 911, inform dispatch you’re being stopped, and ask if the stop is legitimate. The agency says this is a valid precaution.
  

• Also: do not flee. Instead, slow down and pull over in a public, well-lit location. This makes the situation safer for both you and the officer.
  

• The vehicle conducting the stop must have a steady red emergency light visible when initiating the stop — even if the car otherwise looks less conspicuous.
  

🦻 What About Drivers Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing?

The patrol agency acknowledges there is no specialized protocol for handling traffic stops with hearing-impaired drivers. What they do recommend:

• Consider keeping a note in your center console or easily accessible that states you’re hearing-impaired. Present it politely when the officer approaches.

• Avoid abrupt movements like reaching into the glove box, which could be misinterpreted.

• Officers are advised to use writing tools or other accommodations when they realise the driver may not hear verbal instructions.

🚨 Final Notes for Drivers

The introduction of these new “stealth-ish” patrol vehicles shows a shift in enforcement strategy, from conspicuous presence to more subtle observation of reckless driving. But from a driver’s standpoint, the rules remain the same: if you’re pulled over, you have a right to safety and verification.

Key reminders:

• Stay calm, turn on your hazard lights to indicate you are acknowledging the stop.

• Slow down and select a safe location to stop.

• Use your phone to call 911 if you have any doubts about the legitimacy of the stop.

• Comply with instructions once the officer approaches and identifies themselves.

Monrovia School District to Host Meetings on Proposed Middle School Consolidation

The Monrovia Unified School District is inviting the public to two in-person and two virtual meetings regarding a proposed consolidation of middle schools.

Meeting schedule:

• In-Person at Clifton Middle School Auditorium:
  • Thursday, October 23 at 1:00 p.m. 
  • Tuesday, October 28 at 5:30 p.m.
  

• In-Person at Santa Fe CSM School Cafeteria:
  • Tuesday, October 21 at 5:30 p.m. 
  • Tuesday, October 28 at 12:00 p.m. 

• Virtual Meetings:
  • Friday, October 24 at 11:00 a.m.
  
  • Monday, October 27 at 6:00 p.m.
  

If you have questions or want more information, contact the District Office at (626) 471-2000. 

Why this matters:
Consolidation means merging one or more middle-schools to streamline resources, perhaps adjust to enrollment shifts, financial constraints, or facility issues. These meetings provide your chance to hear the plan, ask questions, and share input. Whether you’re a parent, staff member, or community stakeholder, your voice is important.

☕ Veterans Coffee Meetup

📍 Starbucks – 239 W. Huntington Drive, Monrovia
🕕 Fourth Tuesday of Every Month 10/28/25 | 6:00 PM

The Monrovia Public Library’s Veterans Resource Center has teamed up with our local Starbucks to host a monthly gathering for veterans and active service members. Come enjoy a free cup of coffee, connect with fellow vets, and share stories in a welcoming, community-focused space.

🏈 High School Football Roundup

Monrovia Wildcats

📍 Monrovia High School, Monrovia
Last Week: They battled hard but came up short, falling 0-14.
Next Up: Friday, Oct 24 at 7:00 PM – hosting San Marino High School

Game to Watch: Their home game vs San Marino has red-flags up, Monrovia will want to bounce back in front of the home crowd.

Arcadia Apaches

📍 Arcadia High School, Arcadia
Last Week: Big win 42-24 over Glendale High School showing some serious fire.
Next Up: Friday, Oct 24 at 7:00 PM – at Pasadena High School (away).

Game to Watch: The road trip to Pasadena is a sweet spot, Arcadia’s momentum meets a league-battle atmosphere. Keep eyes on this one.

Duarte Falcons

📍 Duarte High School, Duarte
Last Week: Tough loss 7-28 to Bassett High School.
Next Up: Friday, Oct 24 at 7:00 PM – hosting La Puente High School.
Game to Watch: Home vs La Puente gives them a shot to reset scores.

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October 22th – 28st

Proudly serving the San Gabriel Valley, Duarte Tile has been helping homeowners and builders create beautiful spaces that last a lifetime. Whether it’s a kitchen backsplash or a full remodel, they do it all with care and quality.

🗓️ This Week Around Town (Oct 22 – 28, 2025)

Your week of community flavor, local fun, and fall vibes happenings across Monrovia, Arcadia, and Duarte.

Hey neighbors, the SGV is buzzing with fantastic energy this week. From cooking classes to cultural celebrations and a few classic community favorites, there’s something for every mood.

Here’s your cheat sheet for what’s happening around town: local fairs, farmers' markets, and community 

🌶️ Spice & Soul: A Hands-On Indian Cooking Class Experience
📍 Saute Culinary Academy, Monrovia
🕔 Wednesday, Oct 22 | 6:00 PM
Learn to craft authentic Indian dishes with a hands-on approach led by local chefs. A flavorful and immersive evening for food lovers.
🔗 Event Info

🍂 Return to the Canyon – An Evening with MPWR

📍 Monrovia Canyon Park Nature Center
🗓 Thursday, October 23 | Evening Event
🎟️ Tickets: $50 (advance purchase required by Oct 9)

The Monrovia Parks, Wilderness & Recreation Foundation (MPWR) invites you to a magical fall evening under the stars for Return to the Canyon, a celebration of nature, community, and local stewardship.

The evening begins with appetizers, wine, and craft beer at the Nature Center, followed by a catered dinner, dessert, and live music beneath the trees in the picnic area. It’s the perfect way to give back to the park that gives so much to the community.

🌙 Monrovia Street Fair & Market
📍 Old Town Myrtle Avenue
🕔 Friday, Oct 24 | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
A lively night market with local food, vendors, and community vibes. Perfect Friday night stroll.

💪 35th Annual Make a Difference Day
📍 Library Park, 321 S Myrtle Ave, Monrovia
🕔 Saturday, Oct 25 | 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Hundreds of volunteers come together for community service and neighborhood improvement projects. A true Monrovia tradition.
🔗 Old Town Monrovia Events

🍷 Kiwanis Club of Monrovia – A Taste of Old Town Monrovia
📍 Old Town Monrovia, Myrtle Avenue
🕔 Sunday, Oct 26 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Celebrate the Kiwanis Club’s 10th annual “A Taste of Old Town Monrovia.” Enjoy an evening stroll under the stars with local food tastings, drinks, and live music from favorite SGV spots.
🔗 More Info & Tickets

🌟 Hispanic Heritage Cultural Celebration
📍 Duarte Elks Lodge, Duarte, CA
🕔 Sunday, Oct 26 | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM 
A cultural celebration hosted by the Monrovia Duarte Service Unit, featuring community gatherings for Hispanic Heritage — good for local outreach and networking.

✨ Insider Tips

• Arrive early at farmers' markets for the best produce.

• Bring small bills or Venmo, some vendors are cash-only.

• Check city websites or Facebook pages before heading out (sometimes change seasonally).

• Parking in Old Town Monrovia fills up quickly, consider side streets or the Station Square lot.

📰 Want More Local Updates?

Stay in the loop with community events, new businesses, and local spotlights every week, right here in The MAD Insider.

Help make a difference in the lives of our Warriors

Working Dogs For Warriors

Local Openings

City of Monrovia

City of Arcadia

City of Duarte

Does your business have open positions? 
Send us a link or information about the position, and we will add it to our FB page and next week's newsletter.

Toyota is recalling nearly 400,000 vehicles due to rearview camera display issues that may lead to crashes.

The affected vehicles include 2022-2025 Toyota Tundras, Tundra hybrids, and 2023-2025 Sequoia hybrids, totaling 393,838 units.

The software problem causing the malfunction will be fixed by dealerships at no cost.

Owner notification letters will be sent out on November 16, and owners can contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331.

The recall numbers are 25TB10 and 25TA10.

For more information, owners can reach the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration vehicle safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or visit www.nhtsa.gov.

🎓 Emperor Elementary PTA Fall Fundraiser
📍 Emperor Elementary School, San Gabriel (Via TCUSD District)
🕔 Monday, Oct 27 | Evening Event (Exact Time TBD)
Local school community fundraiser featuring family activities and a Handel’s Ice Cream promotion benefiting the PTA.
🔗 School Website

🎉 Attention Schools!

Do you have an exciting fundraiser coming up? 

We want to help spread the word and make your event a success! 🚀

📢 Let Your Community Know:

Simply DM us your event details and we'll share them with our community superheroes. 

This is a fantastic opportunity to increase your event's visibility and engage with more supporters. 🤝 Get the word out and watch your school's fundraising efforts soar!

Your success is our priority, and together, we can make a significant impact. 

Weather Forecast:
Monrovia, Arcadia, Duarte
(October 22 – 28, 2025)

📍 Monrovia

• Active listings/inventory: ~ 87 homes listed for sale.

• Median list price: ~$1,000,000 ‑ $1,028,000.
  

• Median sold price: ~$920,000 (last reported).

• Price per square foot: ~$627/sq ft.
  

• Days on market (average): ~ 47 days.
  
  
  

Monrovia remains a moderately active market with nearly 90 homes available, prices hovering near $1 M, and ~7‑8 weeks on market. For you as a reseller/direct‑ops person (Mirko) this signals steady demand but not rapid churn.

📍 Arcadia

• Active listings/inventory: ~ 215 listed homes.
  

• Median list price: ~$1,799,900.
  

• Median sold price: ~$1,500,000 (latest reported).
  

• Price per square foot: ~$621/sq ft.
  

• Days on market: ~49 days. 

• .Arcadia continues as the premium market of the three — high values, relatively quick turnover (~7 weeks), but the listing count suggests more competition and inventory. If you’re transacting or researching larger properties, this is where volume meets luxury.

📍 Duarte

• Active listings/inventory: ~ 38‑40 homes. 

• Median list price: ~$803,500.
  

• Price per square foot: ~$526/sq ft.
  

• Days on market: ~25 days.
  

• New listings: ~ 3 reported recently. 

Duarte shows the fastest movement of the three – far fewer listings, relatively modest price point, quicker turnover (~3‑4 weeks). If you’re looking for quicker wholesaling/reselling cycles, this market may offer better agility.

🧠 October Summary: 

• Inventory remains modest across all three cities → buyers still have options, but not oversaturated conditions.

• Turnover (days on market) is slowest in Monrovia/Arcadia (~45‑50 days) and fastest in Duarte (~25 days).

• Price levels: Arcadia is high‑end, Monrovia mid‑upper, Duarte more entry/moderate.

• If you’re actively sourcing/reselling, Duarte may offer faster cycles; Arcadia offers higher absolute values but likely longer hold.