Public Health Alert: Several popular cough drop brands have been recalled nationwide due to quality concerns revealed during a recent FDA inspection of an overseas facility.

The recall is classified as Class II, meaning products may pose temporary health risks but are not expected to cause serious harm.

Affected brands include QC Quality Choice, MGC Health, Exchange Select, Caring Mill, and Discount Drug Mart.

Impacted cough drops were sold in multiple flavors, typically in 25 to 90-count bags with expiration dates into 2026.

Consumers should check packaging for lot numbers such as 20240524, 20240720, 20240730, and 20241030.

If you spot these codes, stop using the product and return it to the store for a full refund.

Karaoke Champions, a high-energy live competition, is transforming Arcadia into a bustling destination for interactive nightlife, attracting locals and visitors eager for an experience that goes beyond a typical bar or open-mic night.

Hosted at Astronaut City, this lively weekly event fuses performance, audience engagement, and friendly rivalry, offering the excitement of a concert and the community feel of a gathering.

Performers are spotlighted in a spirited contest, where energy and creativity matter just as much as vocal skill, while the crowd’s reactions decide the winners.

With Arcadia’s central location, the event appeals to residents of Monrovia, Duarte, and the wider San Gabriel Valley, creating a lively night out close to home.

The 21+ venue makes it ideal for date nights and group outings, supporting Arcadia’s growing role in the regional arts and entertainment scene.

Karaoke Champions is quickly gaining buzz as a must-visit community experience.

The San Gabriel Valley’s real estate market is stabilizing in 2026 after years of soaring prices and fierce bidding wars.

In Monrovia, home prices are easing, with a median sale at $950,000 and average market times now stretching to 71 days, giving buyers increased choice and leverage.

Arcadia remains the priciest area, posting a median sold price of $1.81 million, while homes take about 80 days to sell amid substantial inventory, allowing for more negotiation and careful buyer decisions.

Meanwhile, Duarte stands out for value with median prices near $852,500 and brisk demand despite only 30 active listings, making it especially appealing for first-time and move-up buyers.

As the housing landscape shifts, both buyers and sellers must focus on smart pricing and market timing for the best results in this new, more balanced environment.

Ford has announced two major safety recalls impacting its Mustang Mach-E and other models.

Nearly 200,000 Mustang Mach-E vehicles from 2021–2025 are affected by a door-latch software flaw that may leave rear-seat passengers trapped if the doors fail to unlock after someone exits the vehicle.

A separate recall targets over 1 million Ford and Lincoln vehicles, including the Mach-E, due to a rearview camera glitch that can freeze or fail to display images—heightening the risk of accidents while reversing.

Both issues can be fixed through free software updates, with many eligible for over-the-air installation, though some owners may need to visit dealerships.

Ford urges owners to check their vehicle’s recall status and install updates promptly.

Owner notification letters are scheduled for mid-to-late June.

Duarte’s City Council has named new leadership for the coming year, with Tera Martin Del Campo (District 4) appointed as Mayor and Samuel Kang (District 5) as Mayor Pro Tem.

This selection is part of Duarte’s annual rotation, ensuring fresh perspectives and collaborative governance across the council.

The Mayor will preside over council meetings, represent Duarte at regional events, and help set priorities for community initiatives.

The Mayor Pro Tem steps in when needed, maintaining leadership continuity and supporting city efforts.

While all councilmembers share voting authority, these roles provide visible guidance and shape the city’s direction for the year ahead.

Residents can expect renewed focus on transparency, strong community engagement, and progress on city priorities as the new team takes office.

Duarte residents and businesses will see a slight increase in trash and recycling rates starting this year.

Residential service will now cost $39.79 per month, a modest rise of $1.28.

Commercial customers with weekly bin service will pay $248.05 monthly.

Street sweeping fees are also going up a few cents — now $2.39 for homes and $4.63 for commercial accounts monthly.

The price adjustment aligns with Duarte’s contract with Burrtec Waste Services and is mainly driven by California Senate Bill 1383, which expands organic waste recycling requirements across the state.

Despite these changes, Duarte remains among the most affordable cities in the San Gabriel Valley for sanitation services.

Residents still receive trash, recycling, green waste collection, routine street sweeping, and two free bulky item events per year.

The cherished holiday tradition, Enchanted Forest of Light, has returned to transform Descanso Gardens into a luminous wonderland.

This immersive nighttime experience guides visitors along a one-mile path through the botanical gardens in La Cañada Flintridge.

Breathtaking light installations are designed to highlight the area's natural beauty, featuring a field of colorful, shifting tulips and a mystical, mist-filled “Ancient Forest.”

Popular interactive art from creators like HYBYCOZO and sculptor Tom Fruin also makes a welcome return.

Widely considered a sophisticated and magical alternative to more chaotic holiday events, it remains a beloved staple for Southern California families seeking a unique and unforgettable celebration of the season.

The wait for winter is over for Southern California skiers and snowboarders.

Bear Mountain is officially set to open this Thursday, December 4, with its sister resort, Snow Summit, welcoming guests on Friday, December 5.

This much-anticipated opening signals the true start of the winter recreation season in the San Bernardino Mountains.

While recent warm weather raised concerns, the resorts’ powerful snowmaking systems made the opening possible.

Crews worked around the clock during recent temperature drops to blanket the runs for the holiday rush.

Visitors planning a trip must be aware that Highway 38 remains closed indefinitely due to storm damage.

Travelers should use alternate routes like Highway 330 or Highway 18 and anticipate potential delays.

To celebrate the launch, a “kids ski free” promotion will be offered from December 6 through December 12.

The City of Duarte is transforming its stretch of historic Route 66 into a dynamic, open-air art gallery.

In anticipation of the upcoming 2026 centennial, the 2025 Utility Box Art Program is now inviting local artists to help beautify the community.

Twenty-one utility boxes along Huntington Drive are slated to become vibrant public artworks, celebrating Duarte's deep connection to the iconic highway.

The program’s theme is “Duarte’s Route 66: Past, Present & Future.”

This opportunity is open to all artists over 18 who live or work in Los Angeles County.

Selected creators will receive stipends ranging from $400 to $950 for their designs, which will be professionally printed onto durable vinyl wraps and installed for all to see.

The deadline for artists to submit an application online is February 2, 2026.

The CSArts-SGV Foundation has launched its vital 'Pick Your Passion' fundraiser to support the talented students at the California School of the Arts – San Gabriel Valley.

This campaign is a crucial call to action for the Duarte community and beyond, as the public charter school relies on private donations for its renowned arts training.

A special 'Hearts for the Arts' matching gift challenge is now active, doubling the impact of every dollar contributed.

Donations directly fund essential needs, from classroom supplies and equipment to unique opportunities like the Master Artist Series.

These funds bridge the gap where the school’s budget falls short.

Supporting this fundraiser is an investment in our local young artists, ensuring they have the resources needed to pursue their dreams and continue a legacy of artistic excellence in the San Gabriel Valley.

Thanksgiving week has arrived in the San Gabriel Valley, bringing a gift of spectacular weather for local residents.

Communities from Monrovia to Arcadia and Duarte can expect a stretch of beautiful, sunny days perfect for holiday preparations.

The week kicks off with a comfortable high of 69 degrees on Monday.

Temperatures will continue to climb, hitting a warm 75 on Tuesday and peaking at a toasty 77 degrees by Wednesday.

For Thanksgiving Day, the forecast calls for partly sunny skies and a pleasant high near 74 degrees, creating a perfect backdrop for celebrations.

Evenings will remain mild all week, with lows hovering around 50 degrees.

As families gather, this classic Southern California weather is one more thing to be grateful for this holiday season.

The Duarte Public Safety Department has announced a temporary pause on certain parking enforcement for the upcoming holiday season.

This welcome gesture is designed to accommodate residents hosting family and friends.

Enforcement of street sweeping and overnight parking restrictions will be suspended from Monday, November 24, through Sunday, November 30.

A second grace period will be in effect from Monday, December 22, through Sunday, January 4, for the Christmas and New Year's holidays.

Residents should be aware that not all rules are suspended.

Citations will still be issued for critical safety violations, such as parking at red curbs or blocking fire hydrants.

Furthermore, parking regulations for recreational vehicles will be strictly enforced, and permits are still required throughout both holiday periods.

Permits are available at the Duarte Public Safety Office.

Hope is on the horizon for Altadena as the community prepares to rebuild from recent wildfires.

The Walt Disney Company has announced a transformative $5 million pledge to reimagine the beloved Charles White Park, which was devastated by the destructive Eaton fire.

Disney's legendary Imagineers are volunteering their creative talents to design the new space.

The park, a cherished local landmark, honors the influential Black artist and former resident Charles White.

This donation is a promise of renewal for a community that has lost so much.

Plans include nature-inspired playgrounds, a splash pad, a new amphitheater, and a sculpture celebrating White's legacy.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger praised the partnership as a gift of hope and healing for local families.

Groundbreaking for the revitalized park is expected in March 2026, marking a new chapter for the Altadena community.

A significant structure fire sent thick smoke billowing over Monrovia on Saturday, November 15.

The blaze broke out in the 500 block of W. Duarte Road, with first responders finding a building already fully engulfed in flames.

The intensity of the scene prompted the Monrovia Fire Department to immediately call for backup.

Crews from the Arcadia Fire Department and Los Angeles County Fire provided crucial mutual aid, helping to contain the destructive fire and prevent it from spreading to nearby properties.

Thanks to the swift, combined efforts of all agencies, officials confirmed that no injuries were reported among civilians or firefighters.

The cause of the fire is now the focus of a meticulous investigation as authorities work to determine exactly how it started.

A deepening food crisis is putting immense pressure on cherished Thanksgiving giveaways across Pasadena and the San Gabriel Valley.

Local organizers like Union Station Homeless Services and Foothill Unity Center are facing an unprecedented surge in demand.

Rising grocery prices and cuts to federal food benefits have driven a dramatic spike in clients, many of whom are seeking assistance for the very first time.

Both nonprofits report a severe shortage of donations, particularly turkeys.

For the first time ever, there is a genuine fear that families may be turned away from beloved events like the annual Dinner in the Park.

These organizations have issued an urgent plea for nonperishable food, monetary contributions, and volunteers to help ensure no one goes without a holiday meal.

Without immediate community support, these vital local traditions are at serious risk.

American Honda has issued a major recall affecting over a quarter-million vehicles, including many right here in our area.

The action covers 256,603 Accord Hybrid sedans from the 2023 to 2025 model years.

A critical software flaw can cause the car’s control module to reset during operation, leading to a sudden and dangerous loss of drive power.

This malfunction significantly increases the risk of a crash.

The problem was traced to improper software programming by a supplier.

While over 800 warranty claims have been filed, thankfully no injuries or deaths have been reported.

Honda dealers will reprogram the faulty software at no cost to owners.

Although official notices will be mailed on January 5, 2026, the updated software is already available, and concerned drivers can contact their local dealer immediately to check their vehicle and schedule the fix.

FlightAware’s Live Cancellations and Delay Tracker is a free real-time tool for travelers, showing exactly how many flights are delayed or canceled by all major airlines and airports, with up-to-the-minute numbers and percentages.

This makes it an essential resource whether you’re flying from LAX, Ontario, or just sipping your morning coffee and checking the skies.

The tracker displays nationwide totals, breakdowns by airline and airport, and real-time percentages of affected schedules.

As holiday travel ramps up, chaotic conditions from weather, staffing, or sheer volume can hit at any time.

Instead of scattered alerts, this tool gives you a clear nationwide snapshot instantly, letting you spot issues early, adjust your plans, or avoid long airport waits.

Bookmark the page and share it with fellow travelers—you’ll arrive smarter and likely much less stressed.

National Play Day With Dad invites fathers to put aside daily demands and truly connect with their kids.

Whether tossing a ball in the park or bonding over a favorite board game, the day encourages dads to be present and involved, creating memories kids will cherish for years.

Fatherhood shapes futures — the love and guidance a dad gives helps build strong, confident children who grow into capable adults.

This special day is a celebration of laughter, conversation, and the simple joys families share together.

National Play Day With Dad is a reminder to set aside time and embrace the adventure of being a parent, one meaningful moment at a time.

Every year, over 37,000 units of blood and platelets are needed by local patients—especially those facing cancer treatment. Each donation is a selfless act from volunteers who give time, compassion, and hope.

The City of Hope Blood Donor Center at the Duarte campus welcomes walk-ins and appointments, offering hours to suit busy schedules.

Blood donated here stays local, going directly to patients in the San Gabriel Valley and Greater Los Angeles.

It is critical for those undergoing surgery, recovering from trauma, or fighting cancer, since there is no substitute for human blood.

If you can’t donate, spreading the word or hosting a drive is just as important. Every voice and action matters.

Giving blood offers a genuine, immediate way to make a difference—because every drop saves lives and brings hope close to home.

An urgent health alert is impacting California parents after ByHeart Inc. recalled two lots of its Whole Nutrition Infant Formula.

The action follows a frightening infant botulism outbreak that has hospitalized thirteen babies across ten U.S. states.

The specific lot numbers at the center of the recall are 206VABP/251261P2 and 206VABP/251131P2.

Infant botulism is a serious illness that attacks the body's nerves, leading to muscle weakness and difficulty breathing.

Parents are warned to watch for symptoms like a weakened cry, poor feeding, or loss of head control and seek immediate medical attention if they appear.

The FDA is conducting a full investigation into the source of the contamination.

Officials urge anyone who purchased the recalled ByHeart formula to stop using it immediately and dispose of the product safely.

Families across the San Gabriel Valley navigating a cancer diagnosis can find guidance through a new virtual orientation from City of Hope.

This free session is designed to empower patients and their loved ones from Duarte, Monrovia, and beyond as they begin their treatment journey.

Attendees will gain crucial knowledge on managing appointments, maximizing their time with doctors, and understanding their care team's roles.

The program highlights essential supportive care services and patient education resources available locally.

Participants will learn exactly who to call for help and where to find the tools they need.

This orientation provides a confident start, ensuring families have a clear roadmap for the path ahead.

The Monrovia Unified School District is preparing to close a middle school by the 2026-2027 school year, a difficult decision aimed at balancing its budget amid declining enrollment.

District officials will choose between shutting down either Clifton Middle School or Santa Fe Middle School.

This consolidation is expected to save the district around $750,000 annually.

The move is part of a larger fiscal plan that also includes cutting 27 teaching positions and two administrative roles to trim $6 million in expenses.

Community members have voiced concerns over larger class sizes and the potential impact on students.

Superintendent Dr. Paula Hart Rodas is set to present her recommendation on November 19.

The Board of Education will make its final, decisive vote on December 17, a decision that will have a lasting impact on Monrovia families.

This Veterans Day 2025, San Gabriel Valley restaurants are honoring local heroes with a host of complimentary meals for veterans and active-duty military personnel.

It’s a heartfelt gesture of gratitude from the community for their incredible service and sacrifice.

A variety of dining deals will be available on Tuesday, November 11.

Enjoy a free Red’s Big Tavern Burger from Red Robin or a complimentary meal from a select menu at Chili’s.

For breakfast, Denny’s is offering its Original Grand Slam on the house.

Other generous offers include a free entrée at Claim Jumper and a pulled pork sandwich from Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que.

Remember to bring proof of service, as it is required for most of these dine-in-only promotions.

Please call ahead to your local establishment to confirm participation and details.

The road to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games now officially runs through Arcadia.

This week, the Arcadia City Council approved a critical Venue City Games Agreement, cementing the city's role as a formal host partner for the global event.

The legendary Santa Anita Park will stage all Olympic equestrian competitions, reprising its celebrated role from the 1984 Games.

This creates a powerful sense of local history and legacy for the San Gabriel Valley.

In a significant first, Arcadia will also host the Paralympic Games' para equestrian events, marking a major milestone for inclusivity.

City leaders are celebrating the opportunity to showcase Arcadia's deep equestrian roots and diverse community on the world stage.

The partnership highlights LA28's commitment to sustainability by using existing world-class facilities to build a lasting impact.

Pasadena cyclists can now ride easier following a key vote by the Pasadena City Council.

The city has officially eliminated its mandatory bicycle registration and licensing program, a long-standing local requirement.

This overdue update aligns Pasadena's municipal code with current California regulations.

The new ordinance also formally adopts state classifications for electric bicycles, clarifying rules for the increasingly popular vehicles.

This move was driven by the need to align with Assembly Bill 1909.

While the city's Transportation Department will implement the new framework, the Pasadena Police Department will maintain its focus on education and enforcement to ensure road safety for everyone.

These changes reflect a broader push to enhance local cycling infrastructure and promote green transportation options.

An urgent food safety alert has been issued for fresh peaches sold at major local retailers.

The recall includes Moonlight and Kroger brand yellow and white peaches purchased between September 16 and October 29.

This action was taken due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a harmful bacterium that can cause serious illness.

Although no illnesses have been reported yet, the danger is considered serious.

Listeria infection poses a significant threat, especially to pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with compromised immune systems.

Officials urge everyone to check their refrigerators and fruit bowls for the affected peaches.

Do not consume this fruit.

Consumers should either discard the peaches or return them to the point of purchase for a refund.

The Pasadena Unified School District is facing a painful financial reckoning, projecting a staggering budget deficit of $30 to $35 million for the 2026–27 school year.

This shortfall threatens to trigger deep budget cuts across local schools.

District leadership says the deficit is driven by declining student enrollment, rising costs, and the end of one-time COVID relief funds.

To avoid a potential county takeover, PUSD must create a Fiscal Stabilization Plan.

Superintendent Elizabeth Blanco is urging public participation at two town halls to discuss the crisis.

A virtual meeting will be held on November 5, followed by an in-person session on November 10 at Pasadena High School.

Community feedback is considered vital, as upcoming decisions will reshape the future of public education in Pasadena.

Local owners of popular Jeep plug-in hybrids are on high alert following a massive recall from parent company Chrysler.

Over 320,000 vehicles are affected, specifically certain 2020–2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe and 2022–2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe models.

The recall addresses a dangerous defect in the high-voltage battery that can cause a fire, even when the vehicle is parked and turned off.

Federal safety regulators have issued an urgent warning for all affected owners.

Immediately stop charging your vehicle and park it outdoors, away from homes and other structures, until a repair is completed.

The automaker is aware of 19 fires and one injury potentially linked to the issue.

Stellantis, Chrysler's parent company, is developing a permanent solution.

Owners can expect to receive official notification letters by early December 2025.

A new royal ambassador will represent Pasadena in the upcoming 2026 Rose Parade.

Serena Hui Guo, a senior at Arcadia High School, has officially been crowned the 107th Rose Queen.

The announcement was made at the historic Pasadena Tournament House, concluding an intensive selection process.

Guo, along with her six-member Royal Court, will serve as community ambassadors for the next year, with each receiving a $7,500 educational scholarship for their service.

Their year-long reign is a commitment to leadership and public engagement throughout the San Gabriel Valley.

On New Year's Day, she will join Grand Marshal Earvin “Magic” Johnson to lead the parade, which celebrates the theme 'Magic in Teamwork'.

This honor is now open to more local students than ever, as the Tournament of Roses recently expanded eligibility across the SGV.

Retirees across Phoenix are getting official news on their 2026 finances.

The Social Security Administration has announced a 2.8 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for the upcoming year.

This translates to an average increase of about $56 per month for local retirees and individuals receiving disability benefits.

However, for many in Maricopa County, the modest boost feels insufficient as the costs of housing, groceries, and utilities continue to climb.

Concerns are growing that the small increase, which is tied to moderating federal inflation data, won't be enough to protect the purchasing power of seniors on fixed incomes.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients will see the change in late December 2025, with all other beneficiaries seeing it in January 2026.

Official notices will be available online through my Social Security accounts in early December.