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New Kenneth M. Bell Gymnasium a Beacon of Pride for Duarte High School

The state-of-the-art facility honors a local legend and promises to be a cornerstone for the entire Duarte community, transforming the student experience.

Mirko Spinella

Mirko Spinella

Sep 29, 2025
New Kenneth M. Bell Gymnasium a Beacon of Pride for Duarte High School

A new landmark has risen in the City of Duarte with the opening of the Kenneth M. Bell Gymnasium at Duarte High School.

 

This stunning 30,000-square-foot facility marks a major milestone for students and the wider community.

 

Funded by the voter-approved Measure S bond, the gym features a competition basketball court with seating for 1,300, a weight training room, and a dance studio.

 

It represents a profound commitment by the Duarte Unified School District to providing top-tier resources for student growth and athletics.

 

The gym is named in honor of Kenneth M. Bell, a distinguished 36-year law enforcement veteran and school board member for over two decades.

 

His incredible legacy of service to Duarte's youth is now permanently celebrated with this tribute.

 

For the Duarte Falcons and generations to come, the new facility is more than a building—it is a launching pad for future success.

Sierra Madre Rallies for Mount Wilson Trail Race Recovery Run

The iconic annual race shifts to an inspiring 'MWT 5K Trail Recovery Run' on October 4, 2025, calling on the San Gabriel Valley to help rebuild beloved local trails.

Mirko Spinella

Mirko Spinella

Sep 29, 2025
Sierra Madre Rallies for Mount Wilson Trail Race Recovery Run

This year’s Mount Wilson Trail Race is more than a competition; it's a powerful community mission.

 

On Saturday, October 4, 2025, Sierra Madre will host the special “MWT 5K Trail Recovery Run” to raise funds for vital trail restoration following recent damage.

 

The reimagined race will start and end in downtown’s Kersting Court, creating an accessible event for all ages while highlighting the urgent need for repairs.

 

All proceeds directly support the Don Fletcher Trail Maintenance Fund, which equips the volunteer crews working to safely reopen the beloved paths.

 

This family-friendly event invites runners from across the San Gabriel Valley and also includes a free Kids Fun Run before the main race.

 

By participating, residents aren't just running a 5K; they are actively helping to restore these iconic local trails for everyone to enjoy once again.

A Duarte Tradition Returns: Route 66 Parade Roars Back to Life on Huntington Drive

The beloved community event celebrating Duarte's deep connection to the historic Mother Road returned with classic cars, local pride, and a massive city picnic at Encanto Park.

Mirko Spinella

Mirko Spinella

Sep 29, 2025
A Duarte Tradition Returns: Route 66 Parade Roars Back to Life on Huntington Drive

The Duarte Route 66 Parade made a triumphant return this past Saturday, filling the air with community cheer along the city’s historic stretch of Huntington Drive.

 

A beloved local tradition, the event re-energized Duarte’s spirit, drawing families to watch the vibrant procession.

 

Participants from Duarte High School, community groups, and the police department marched together in a powerful display of hometown pride.

 

Following the parade, the celebration continued at Encanto Park with the annual City Picnic, which featured live music, food, and family-friendly attractions.

 

A major highlight was the Classic Car Show, where gleaming lowriders and hot rods paid homage to America's open-road culture.

 

Mayor Cesar A. Garcia noted the event felt especially meaningful as it coincided with the city’s 68th anniversary.

 

For many, it was a welcome revival of a cherished community cornerstone.

Urgent Public Service Announcement: Major Deli Recall Hits Local Grocery Stores

A serious deli meat issue has prompted a widespread recall at Albertsons, Safeway, and Vons due to potential Listeria contamination in popular pasta salads.

Mirko Spinella

Mirko Spinella

Sep 27, 2025
Urgent Public Service Announcement: Major Deli Recall Hits Local Grocery Stores

A significant public health warning has been issued for shoppers regarding a recall of popular deli items from major local supermarkets.

 

Albertsons Companies is recalling several store-made deli products containing bowtie pasta due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a dangerous organism.

 

The recall impacts numerous chains, including Albertsons, Safeway, and Vons.

 

Affected items, like the Basil Pesto Bowtie Pasta Salad sold in September, stem from a supplier named Fresh Creative Foods.

 

Health officials warn that Listeria can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, especially in young children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems.

 

Consumers are strongly urged not to eat these products under any circumstances.

 

Please dispose of the recalled items or return them to the place of purchase for a complete refund.

Monrovia's New In-N-Out Burger Draws Massive Crowds on Huntington Drive

The iconic California chain's latest San Gabriel Valley location opened its doors Thursday, transforming a long-vacant lot into a hub for burger fans from across the region.

Mirko Spinella

Mirko Spinella

Sep 26, 2025
Monrovia's New In-N-Out Burger Draws Massive Crowds on Huntington Drive

The long wait is finally over for local burger fans.

 

An electric atmosphere surrounded the grand opening of the brand-new In-N-Out Burger in Monrovia's Huntington Oaks Center on Thursday, September 25th.

 

Eager customers from Monrovia, Arcadia, and Duarte flocked to the location, which opened its doors 90 minutes early to accommodate the bustling crowd.

 

The restaurant sits on the former site of a demolished Black Angus.

 

Company president Lynsi Snyder was even on-site to support the new crew on their very first day.

 

This impressive 3,879-square-foot building is the 425th location for the beloved chain, marking a significant addition for the San Gabriel Valley.

 

Complete with the brand’s signature crossed palm trees, the restaurant will serve diners until 1:30 a.m. on weekends.

Duarte Route 66 Parade Returns to Huntington Drive This Weekend

The 'City of Champions' celebration on Saturday, September 27, will be followed by a massive City Picnic at Encanto Park with live music, food, and a classic car show.

EXCLUSIVE
Mirko Spinella

Mirko Spinella

Sep 26, 2025
Duarte Route 66 Parade Returns to Huntington Drive This Weekend

Get ready, Duarte, because a beloved tradition is roaring back to life this weekend.

 

The annual Duarte Route 66 Parade is set for this Saturday, September 27, taking over Huntington Drive.

 

This year’s theme is “City of Champions,” honoring the local athletes and leaders who embody Duarte's spirit.

 

The parade begins sharply at 10 a.m., starting at Cotter Avenue and concluding at Bradbourne Avenue, so plan for some road closures.

 

Afterward, the celebration moves to Encanto Park for the annual City Picnic from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

 

This incredible day combines two cherished events, featuring live music from The Company Band, a classic car show, and numerous vendors.

 

There will be plenty of food and family-friendly attractions, plus a beer garden for adults 21 and over.

 

Don't miss this celebration of community pride and Duarte heritage.

Duarte Secures Major Win with New Vallarta Supermarket

The popular grocery chain is set to transform the vacant Best Buy building on Mountain Avenue, fulfilling a key economic goal for the City of Duarte.

Mirko Spinella

Mirko Spinella

Sep 25, 2025
Duarte Secures Major Win with New Vallarta Supermarket

The City of Duarte is set to welcome a highly anticipated new grocery store.

 

Vallarta Supermarkets has officially signed a lease to open a new location at 1470 Mountain Avenue, taking over the massive 46,000-square-foot building formerly home to Best Buy.

 

This development is a major win for the community, fulfilling a long-standing city goal of bringing more grocery options to residents.

 

The move is being hailed as a significant boost for local economic development.

 

Extensive work is planned to transform the dormant retail space into a vibrant market, with a grand opening expected to take several months.

 

Part of a broader expansion across Southern California, Vallarta's investment signals strong confidence in Duarte's future and is an eagerly awaited addition for the San Gabriel Valley.

Take a Bite Out of Cancer: Arcadia's Annual Fundraiser Supports Families Facing Pediatric Cancer

An evening of food, entertainment, and community to aid families on their unexpected cancer journeys

Mirko Spinella

Mirko Spinella

Sep 25, 2025
Take a Bite Out of Cancer: Arcadia's Annual Fundraiser Supports Families Facing Pediatric Cancer

Arcadia, CA is set to welcome the beloved Take a Bite Out of Cancer fundraiser on October 4, 2025 at the Arcadia Community Center, 365 Campus Drive.

 

This annual gathering supports local families facing the hardships of pediatric cancer.

 

The evening kicks off at 5:00 p.m. with a spread of cuisine from favorite local vendors, alongside both live and silent auctions, and complimentary wine and beer.

 

Special guest Priscilla Zaragoza, mother of four-year-old Micah Zaragoza, will share her inspiring story of courage and community support.

 

Adding laughter and excitement, renowned comedienne and auctioneer Amy Ashton will headline, joined by master magician Nader Hanna.

 

A Fun Photobooth and engaging entertainment promise a memorable night.

 

Early tickets are $80 until September 21, rising to $90 after.

 

All proceeds benefit families through the nonprofit Here to Serve.

Duarte Celebrates Launch of bp pulse Ultrafast EV Charging Hub

New Station Enhances City's Commitment to Sustainable Transportation

Mirko Spinella

Mirko Spinella

Sep 25, 2025
Duarte Celebrates Launch of bp pulse Ultrafast EV Charging Hub

Duarte has taken a bold step toward sustainability with the opening of a bp pulse ultrafast electric vehicle charging station at 2107 Huntington Drive.

 

This state-of-the-art hub features 24 ultrafast charging bays equipped with 150kW DC fast chargers, allowing EV drivers to recharge in record time.

 

Conveniently located near the 605 freeway, the station welcomes both locals and travelers, offering ADA-accessible bays, CCS connectors, a 24/7 restroom facility, and a modern lounge open daily.

 

Nearby dining, car wash, and fitness amenities let drivers relax while their vehicles charge.

 

Since launching in August 2025, the station has received praise for its speed and comfort, reflecting Duarte’s commitment to eco-friendly transportation.

 

By enhancing EV infrastructure, Duarte empowers residents and visitors to choose greener ways to travel and reduce their carbon footprint.

The MAD Insider

© 2025 The MAD Insider.

Welcome to The MAD Insider, your go-to guide to Monrovia, Arcadia, and Duarte, the heart of the San Gabriel Valley. From breaking city news and school board updates to must-try restaurants, family festivals, and outdoor adventures, we cover the stories that matter most. With upbeat community news, local events, and spotlights on the people and places that make our tri-city special, The MAD Insider keeps neighbors connected, informed, and inspired, delivered straight to your inbox.

© 2025 The MAD Insider.

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