Here is a sampling of things to do in the San Gabriel Valley and Whittier, May 5-12.

Raise a glass to the 1862 Mexican victory over French troops and celebrate Mexican culture at the many Cinco de Mayo parties in the San Gabriel Valley.

Have fun at the Cinco de Mayo Festival in South El Monte with live performances, a boxing show and food vendors, 6-9 p.m. May 5. Free admission. South El Monte Community Center, 1530 Central Ave. 626-579-2043.

Cinco de Mayo at the Rose Bowl, the second-annual event, 1-7 p.m. May 6. The family-friendly event includes family fitness activities, live music, a youth soccer tournament, a marketplace and screenings of  “Coco” (2017) and “Encanto” (2021). Free but reservations are requested on the website. Rose Bowl Stadium, 1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena. Details on the website: bit.ly/41ZzXwp

Los Angeles County Fair: The fair’s theme this year is “Spring into Fair,” May 5-29. Admission is available online now for discount. Hours: 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Admission online $15/$18/$21 (depending on date); ages 60 and older and ages 6-12 admission online $10/$12 (depending on date). Admission at the gate $30; $15 ages 60 and older and ages 6-12. Parking in advance online $17; $22 at the gate. Also, Fairplex is a cashless venue. Some concessionaires and vendors may accept cash, but credit or debit card is preferred. Fairplex, 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona. www.lacountyfair.com

West Covina Farmers Market: Shop for in-season fruits and vegetables, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. May 6 (and also on most Saturdays). The market also offers prepared foods and artisan crafts. EBT is accepted. Location, 195 Glendora Ave., West Covina. For more information, email: Fmlcevendor@gmail.com. Check here for updates: www.facebook.com/westcovinafarmersmarket

Family art workshop at the Huntington: Get inspired at a collage art workshop, 9:30 a.m.-noon May 6. Start at the gallery with a talk about Los Angeles-based artist Njideka Crosby’s collage-based paintings and end with a workshop where children can create their own self-portrait collage. All materials provided. This program is for children ages 7-11. Fee $45, for one child plus an accompanying adult, as well as admission to The Huntington. The Huntington, 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino. For more information, email mahverdyan@huntington.org. huntington.org. Reservations: huntington.org/event/family-workshop-collage-creation

Renaissance Pleasure Faire: Immerse yourself in the time of Queen Elizabeth I’s reign and have some fun with cosplay of the time period, speaking the lingo, shopping in the marketplace, listening to music and laughing at performances, Saturday-Sunday, to May 21. Fun dress code: period “faire” costume (optional). Hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Admission $42; $21 ages 5-12; $225 season pass. There is a mandatory entry fee $12 to the Santa Fe Dam Recreation area. Parking is free, first-come, first served; VIP parking $25 (must be purchased in advance online). Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, 15501 E. Arrow Highway, Irwindale. 626-969-4750. renfair.com/socal

Vroman’s Bookstore: Stephen Buoro discusses “The Five Sorrowful Mysteries of Andy Africa,” 1 p.m. May 6 (on Crowdcast; register for the link: bit.ly/41Xl51g). Mona Gable discusses “Searching for Savanna — The Murder of One Native American Woman and the violence Against the Many,” 7 p.m. May 9. Vanessa Wilkie discusses “A Woman of Influence: The Spectacular Rise of Alice Spencer in Tudor England,” 7 p.m. May 11. Location, 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. 626-449-5320. vromans.com

The Pasadena Chorale: “Brahms and Beyond,” at 7:30 p.m. May 6. Enjoy some of Brahms’ most beloved choral works and explore the music of living composers influenced and inspired by the German composer. Admission is free but ticket reservations are required. First United Methodist Church, 500 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. pasadenachorale.org

Pasadena City College Flea Market: Find antiques, vintage collectibles, new treasures or vinyl records, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. May 7. Free admission. Upcoming dates: June 4; July 2. Use the parking structure #5 on Bonnie Avenue ($2). The market is in outdoor parking lots 1, 3 (on Hill Avenue) and also in parking lot structure #4 (levels 2 and 3; Del Mar Boulevard). The college is located at 1570 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. 626-585-7906. Email: fleamarket@pasadena.edu. pasadena.edu/community/flea-market. Updates, www.facebook.com/pccfleamarket

Home Sweet Monrovia: Save the date for the 39th annual tour of vintage homes curated by the Monrovia Historic Preservation Group. Explore Monrovia’s rich architectural heritage, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. May 7. Houses include: an 1887 Queen Anne; 1900s Craftsman homes; a 1931 Spanish Colonial Revival; an 1885 Eastlake Victorian. The Monrovia Historical Museum and Anderson House Museum will also be open for viewing. Tickets are $25 advance; $30 on event day (purchase on the website or at Charlie’s House, 430 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia). mohpg.org

For little gardeners: Get an inspiring view seated in front of Diego Rivera’s “The Flower Vendor” as you listen to “The Little Gardener” by Emily Hughes, during “Stories in the Afternoon,” 3 p.m. May 7. Ideal for ages 4-8. Storytime is limited to 15 participants on a first-come, first-served basis. Sign up at the Information Desk when the museum opens. Free with museum admission. Norton Simon Museum, 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. 626-449-6840. nortonsimon.org

Octavia’s Bookshelf: Denise Crittendon discusses “Where It Rains in Color,” 6 p.m. May 9. Location, 1361 N. Hill Ave., Pasadena. 626-421-6222. octaviasbookshelf.com

Duarte Farmers Market: is open from 4 to 7:30 p.m. May 10 (and most other Wednesdays). Southeast corner of the Santa Teresita Assisted Living parking lot, 819 Buena Vista St., Duarte. duartechamber.com/duarte-farmers-market. Updates on Facebook: bit.ly/41OI0wJ

Music on Main: The city of El Monte brings music to its farmers market, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursdays. Mariachi Divas celebrates Mother’s Day on May 11 and 4 The People takes the stage on May 25. Main Street between Santa Anita and Tyler avenues, El Monte.  For more information, 626-580-2200. ci.el-monte.ca.us

Just Like Heaven Fest: The lineup includes Yeah Yeah Yeahs, MGMT, Azealia Banks, Future Islands, Empire of the Sun, M83, Hot Chip, Caribou and the Walkmen, noon-11 p.m. May 13. Tickets $369 or $389 VIP (plus fees); $649 Clubhouse (all general admission tickets are sold out). No refunds. Brookside at the Rose Bowl, 1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena. justlikeheavenfest.com

Whittier’s Founders Day Community Picnic: The Whittier Historical Society and city of Whittier present the picnic, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. May 13. The event includes living history performers, live music, vintage car display, crafts, lawn games, a slam poetry contest and vendors. There will also be a beard and mustache competition. The city of Whittier was incorporated in 1898 and was named in honor of the Quaker poet, John Greenleaf Whittier. Fun dress code: 1890s period attire. Central Park, 6532 Friends Ave. 562-945-3871. Details: bit.ly/42daz6Z

San Gabriel Fire Department’s Fire Service Day: Event includes tours, mock firefighting demonstrations, paramedics demonstrations and fire safety information, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. May 13. Station 51, 1303 S. Del Mar Ave., San Gabriel. SanGabrielCity.com

Mount Wilson Observatory’s Concerts in the Dome: The Lounge Art Ensemble of Peter Erskine on drums, Bob Sheppard on saxophone and Darek Oles on bass takes the stage, so to speak, within the 100-inch dome at 3 and 5 p.m. May 14. Tickets $55. Notes on attending the concerts: Access to the dome performance level is by a 53-step staircase. Mount Wilson Observatory is a mile high in elevation so the air is noticeably thinner. There is no ADA-compliant access. No children ages 12 and younger are permitted. Angeles Crest Highway (CA Highway 2) from the 210 Freeway at La Cañada Flintridge (use the map here: www.mtwilson.edu/1map). For more information, mtwilson.edu. Details and purchase tickets: www.mtwilson.edu/events/sunday-afternoon-concert-in-the-dome-may-14-tbd/

Ongoing

Pasadena Showcase House of Design: The 58th showcase highlights the talents of 32 interior and exterior designers who have transformed the Stewart House, a 1933 Pasadena colonial estate designed by Marston & Maybury. The estate is open for tours through May 21. Explore more than 30 design spaces and check out 20 boutique shops vendors, two restaurants, a wine bar and more than two-acres of gardens. Tour hours: 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; 9:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Friday; 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Tour tickets are by a timed entry: $40 (1:30-4 p.m.); $50 (9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.); $35 (“Happy Hour,” 4 p.m. to closing). Parking and shuttles depart from Santa Anita Race Track, Gate 6 Lot on Colorado Place. Proceeds from the tours of the house go to fund three music programs. For more information, pasadenashowcase.org

Pasadena Tournament of Roses House: The Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association offers free guided tours, 2 p.m. Thursdays through Aug. 31. The Tournament House tours reveals little-known facts and trivia and also includes the Wrigley Gardens. Explore the house that has served as headquarters for the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game. Reservations are required for the hour-long tours. For groups of 10 or more, call 626-449-4100 or email membership@tournamentofroses.com. Book a tour here: tournamentofroses.com/house-tours

Book a castle visit: Rubel Castle is an elaborate folk-art medieval castle in the foothills of Glendora, with five-story tall towers solidly built out of junk and river rocks by the late Michael Rubel and his friends. The castle offers eight scheduled tours each month. Tours are two hours long. Admission is $20 for adults; $10 ages 8-18. The property is not Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible; see website for details. Rubel Castle, 844 N. Live Oak Ave., Glendora. Glendora Historical Society voicemail, 626-963-0419. rubeltours.org

Descanso Gardens: Ongoing special art exhibit: “Shiki: The Four Seasons in Japanese Art,” in the Sturt Haaga Gallery and runs through May 21. Gardens hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. The gallery is open, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission $15; $11 ages 65 and older and student with valid ID; $5 ages 5-12. Location, 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintidge. 818-949-4200. descansogardens.org

Kidspace Children’s Museum: The 27th annual “Butterfly Season” at the museum is open with children’s activities including going on a big safari, playing dress-up, viewing live caterpillars, moths and honeybees, through May 14. Also, learn from “Los Trompos,” an interactive art installation that honors the monarch butterfly’s cultural and ecological ties to Mexico. Tickets are by time and date: $14.95 ages 1-61; $12.95 ages 62 and older (purchase here: bit.ly/3mJOFoh). Location, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. 626-449-9144. kidspacemuseum.org

Los Angeles Arboretum and Botanic Garden: Hours: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. daily. Purchase tickets online and in advance. Admission $15; $11 ages 62 and older and students with ID; $5 ages 5-12. Due to construction of a new visitor entrance, entrance is temporarily at the south parking lot and north of Ayres Hall. The arboretum is at 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia. 626-821-3222. arboretum.org

Monrovia Historical Museum: Explore the museum, 1-4 p.m. Thursday and Sunday. Docent-led tours are available. Free admission/donation. The museum is at 742 E. Lemon Ave., Monrovia. 626-357-9537. monroviahistoricalmuseum.org

Norton Simon Museum: New exhibit: “All Consuming: Art and the Essence of Food,” through Aug. 14. Ongoing special exhibit: “Saint Sebastian: Anatomy of a Sculpture,” learn about the 15th-century Italian painted sculpture from the Norton Simon collections, through July 3. An online exhibit: “Representing Women: Gender and Portraiture in 17th Century Europe” (view here bit.ly/3zLRR9p). Hours: noon-5 p.m. Monday and Thursday-Sunday. Admission $15; $12 ages 62 and older; free for ages 18 and younger and students with a valid ID. Location, 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. 626-449-6840. nortonsimon.org

USC Pacific Asia Museum: Ongoing special exhibit: “Global Asias: Contemporary Asian and Asian American Art — From the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation,” through June 25. Also, explore the Sunkal Ceramics Gallery and the specific galleries for art of South and Southeast Asia, China, Himalaya, Pacific Island, Japan, Korea and Silk Road. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. Admission is by advance timed purchase, $10; $7 ages 65 and older and students with valid ID; free for ages 17 and under. Also, free admission from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursdays and on the second Sunday of the month. 46 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena. 626-787-2680. pacificasiamuseum.usc.edu

Whittier Museum: Exhibits on aspects of Whittier history including agriculture and Quaker settlers. Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 1-4 p.m. Saturday. Free admission/donations. Location, 6755 Newlin Ave., Whittier. 562-945-3871. Email: info@whittiermuseum.org. whittiermuseum.org/visit

Send calendar items to Anissa V. Rivera at sgvncalendar@gmail.com. Please send items at least three weeks before the event. Please list phone, email and/or website for additional information.

However, investigators still want to talk to the mother who they had not yet identified, sheriff’s Lt. Hugo Reynaga said.

The doctor who examined the body believes he was a second trimester baby and didn’t think he would have survived outside the womb, Reynaga said. The coroner’s office is doing a toxicology test.

The body was discovered at the section of the park in the 1200 block of Lerma Road around 8 a.m. Friday, April 28.

A man doing community service was about to empty a trash can when he saw the baby lying face down on the grass next to the trash can, Reynaga said. The umbilical cord and the placenta were still attached.

There were no signs of trauma on the body. The baby had probably been at the park overnight, the lieutenant said.

Sheriff’s detectives asked anyone with information about the body to call them at 323-890-5500. Anonymous tipsters can contact Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or at lacrimestoppers.org.

Here is a sampling of things to do in the San Gabriel Valley and Whittier, April 28-May 5.

Go beyond margaritas at San Gabriel’s celebration of Cinco de Mayo, 6-9 p.m. May 3. The annual Cinco de Mayo Mercado event in the Mission Playhouse plaza is a free outdoor event with local artisans, live music, crafts, food trucks and a cocktail and beer garden.

Performers include Sol de Fuego Ballet Folkorico, Soto Band, and Roosevelt Elementary School’s Music Immersion Experience Mariachi Ensemble. Mission District, 320 S. Mission Drive, San Gabriel. 626-308-2875. SanGabrielCity.com/Cinco

Vroman’s Bookstore: Maggie Smith discusses her memoir “You Could Make This Place Beautiful,” 7 p.m. April 28 (ticketed event; $28 plus fees, includes hardcover book and admission; register here: bit.ly/3KM2n78). Angela Tucker discusses “You Should Be Grateful: Stories of Race, Identity and Trans-racial Adoption,” 7 p.m. May 1. Lan P. Duong (“Nothing Follows”) and Diana Khoi Nguyen (“Ghost of”), discusses their books, 7 p.m. May 2. Ava Chin discusses “Mott Street: A Chinese American Family’s Exclusion and Homecoming,” 7 p.m. May 4. Stephen Buoro discusses “The Five Sorrowful Mysteries of Andy Africa,” 1 p.m. May 6 (on Crowdcast; register for the link: bit.ly/41Xl51g). Mona Gable discusses “Searching for Savanna — The Murder of One Native American Woman and the violence Against the Many,” 7 p.m. May 9. Vanessa Wilkie discusses “A Woman of Influence: The Spectacular Rise of Alice Spencer in Tudor England,” 7 p.m. May 11. Location, 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. 626-449-5320. vromans.com

Underdog Bookstore: Check out the newest indie bookstore that is whimsical, dog-themed and focused on diverse authors. Underdog Bookstore is also Queer, Latine, AAPI and Indigenous-owned. Store hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. April 29; noon-5 p.m. April 30. Location, 312 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia. For more information, including weekday hours, 626-415-1031. Follow “Underdog Bookstore” on Instagram.

Independent Bookstore Day – April 29: Indie bookstores have specials events and deals to celebrate the day including a performance by The Ukulele Orchestra of the Western Hemisphere, 1 p.m. April 29 at Vroman’s Bookstore (695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena). Learn more about the day and type in a zip code to find participating Indie Bookstore Day shops: www.bookweb.org/independent-bookstore-day

West Covina Farmers Market: Shop for in-season fruits and vegetables, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. April 29 (and also on most Saturdays). The market also offers prepared foods and artisan crafts. EBT is accepted. Location, 195 Glendora Ave., West Covina. For more information, email: Fmlcevendor@gmail.com. Check here for updates: www.facebook.com/westcovinafarmersmarket

Renaissance Pleasure Faire: Immerse yourself in the time of Queen Elizabeth I’s reign and have some fun with cosplay of the time period, speaking the lingo, shopping in the marketplace, listening to music and laughing at performances, Saturday-Sunday, to May 21. Fun dress code: period “faire” costume (optional). This weekend’s special theme: “Renncon,” with a “Time Traveler Costume Contest,” April 29-30). Hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Admission $42; $21 ages 5-12; $225 season pass. There is a mandatory entry fee $12 to the Santa Fe Dam Recreation area. Parking is free, first-come, first served; VIP parking $25 (must be purchased in advance online). Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, 15501 E. Arrow Highway, Irwindale. 626-969-4750. renfair.com/socal

Jackalope Pasadena: Shop the artisan market of more than 200 local vendors selling indie goods, clothing, jewelry, home décor, housewares, art and food. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. April 29-30. Free admission. Central Park, 275 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena.  jackalopeartfair.com/visitpasadena

Eclectic Music Festival and Arts Crawl: Explore the sounds and sights at the 13th annual event, 3-10 p.m. April 29. The event includes 15 music stages, an Artisans’ Alley with 80 vendors, a children’s activity zone, three beer gardens and a vintage flea market. Free admission. Central business district, 1121 Mission St., South Pasadena. www.instagram.com/sopaseclectic. TheEclectic.Rocks

The Drowsy Chaperone: Catch the closing night performance of the 1998 musical by Lisa Lambert, Bob Martin, Dan McKellar and Greg Morrison, 8 p.m. April 29. The play is presented by the Jewish Federation of the Greater San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys. Tickets $25; $35. Porticos Art Space, 2033 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena. jewishsgpv.org. www.jewishsgpv.org/our-work/cultural-arts/jfedplayers

Treat yourself and help a cause: As if you need a reason to get shaved ice. Meet Fresh and Michelin-starred chef Jon Yao is raising funds for the Downtown Women’s Center Los Angeles by collaborating on a special dessert through April 30. The shaved ice specialty features grass jelly, potaro balls, mini taro balls, boba, condensed milk and infused with a creamy milk tea sauce. Pick some up at the Meet Fresh stores in Arcadia, Hacienda Heights or Temple City. More on the product and the fundraiser: meetfresh.us/chef-jon-yao-collab. For more information, meetfresh.us

Agnes Restaurant & Cheesery: The restaurant launches its “Agnes Cheese Club” on May 1, just in time for American Cheese Month. Join a cheese club giveaway on Cheesery Instagram and an in-store launch party from 2-4 p.m. Location, Old Town Pasadena, 40 W. Green St., Pasadena. 626-389-3839. agnesla.com

Duarte Farmers Market: is open from 4 to 7:30 p.m. May 3 (and most other Wednesdays). Southeast corner of the Santa Teresita Assisted Living parking lot, 819 Buena Vista St., Duarte. duartechamber.com/duarte-farmers-market. Updates on Facebook: bit.ly/41OI0wJ

National Day of Prayer in South El Monte: The city of South El Monte invites everyone to its National Day of Prayer breakfast, 10 a.m.-noon May 4. South El Monte Community Center, 1530 Central Ave. 626-579-2043. www.cityofsouthelmonte.org/250/Special-Events

National Day of Prayer service: Arcadia Interfaith Council holds an event with the theme “Together Under One Roof,” 7 p.m. May 4. Temple Beth David, 9677 Longden Ave., Temple City. 626-287-9994. www.templebethdavidsgv.org/events/calendar

Los Angeles County Fair: The fair’s theme this year is “Spring into Fair,” May 5-29. Admission is available online now for discount. Hours: 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Admission online $15/$18/$21 (depending on date); ages 60 and older and ages 6-12 admission online $10/$12 (depending on date). Admission at the gate $30; $15 ages 60 and older and ages 6-12. Parking in advance online $17; $22 at the gate. Also, Fairplex is a cashless venue. Some concessionaires and vendors may accept cash, but credit or debit card is preferred. Fairplex, 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona. www.lacountyfair.com

Cinco de Mayo Festival: The event in South El Monte includes live performances, a boxing show and food vendors, 6-9 p.m. May 5. Free admission. South El Monte Community Center, 1530 Central Ave. 626-579-2043.

Cinco de Mayo at the Rose Bowl: The second annual event, 1-7 p.m. May 6. The family-friendly event includes family fitness activities, live music, a youth soccer tournament, a marketplace and screenings of  “Coco” (2017) and “Encanto” (2021). Reservations are requested on the website. Rose Bowl Stadium, 1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena. Details on the website: bit.ly/41ZzXwp

The Pasadena Chorale: “Brahms and Beyond,” at 7:30 p.m. May 6. Enjoy some of Brahms’ most beloved choral works and explore the music of living composers influenced and inspired by the German composer. Admission is free but ticket reservations are required. First United Methodist Church, 500 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. pasadenachorale.org

Home Sweet Monrovia: Save the date for the 39th annual tour of vintage homes curated by the Monrovia Historic Preservation Group. Explore Monrovia’s rich architectural heritage, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. May 7. Houses include: an 1887 Queen Anne; 1900s Craftsman homes; a 1931 Spanish Colonial Revival; an 1885 Eastlake Victorian. The Monrovia Historical Museum and Anderson House Museum will also be open for viewing. Tickets are $25 advance; $30 on event day (purchase on the website or at Charlie’s House, 430 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia). mohpg.org

Mount Wilson Observatory’s Concerts in the Dome: The Lounge Art Ensemble of Peter Erskine on drums, Bob Sheppard on saxophone and Darek Oles on bass takes the stage, so to speak, within the 100-inch dome at 3 and 5 p.m. May 14. Tickets $55. Notes on attending the concerts: Access to the dome performance level is by a 53-step staircase. Mount Wilson Observatory is a mile high in elevation so the air is noticeably thinner. There is no ADA-compliant access. No children ages 12 and younger are permitted. Angeles Crest Highway (CA Highway 2) from the 210 Freeway at La Cañada Flintridge (use the map here: www.mtwilson.edu/1map). For more information, mtwilson.edu. Details and purchase tickets: www.mtwilson.edu/events/sunday-afternoon-concert-in-the-dome-may-14-tbd/

Ongoing

Pasadena Showcase House of Design: The 58th showcase highlights the talents of 32 interior and exterior designers who have transformed the Stewart House, a 1933 Pasadena colonial estate designed by Marston & Maybury. The estate is open for tours through May 21. Explore more than 30 design spaces and check out 20 boutique shops vendors, two restaurants, a wine bar and more than two-acres of gardens. Tour hours: 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday; 9:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Friday; 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Tour tickets are by a timed entry: $40 (1:30-4 p.m.); $50 (9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.); $35 (“Happy Hour,” 4 p.m. to closing). Parking and shuttles depart from Santa Anita Race Track, Gate 6 Lot on Colorado Place. Proceeds from the tours of the house go to fund three music programs. For more information, pasadenashowcase.org

Pasadena Tournament of Roses House: The Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association offers free guided tours, 2 p.m. Thursdays through Aug. 31. The Tournament House tours reveals little-known facts and trivia and also includes the Wrigley Gardens. Explore the house that has served as headquarters for the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl Game. Reservations are required for the hour-long tours. For groups of 10 or more, call 626-449-4100 or email membership@tournamentofroses.com. Book a tour here: tournamentofroses.com/house-tours

Book a castle visit: Rubel Castle is an elaborate folk-art medieval castle in the foothills of Glendora, with five-story tall towers solidly built out of junk and river rocks by the late Michael Rubel and his friends. The castle offers eight scheduled tours each month. Tours are two hours long. Admission is $20 for adults; $10 ages 8-18. The property is not Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible; see website for details. Rubel Castle, 844 N. Live Oak Ave., Glendora. Glendora Historical Society voicemail, 626-963-0419. rubeltours.org

Descanso Gardens: Ongoing special art exhibit: “Shiki: The Four Seasons in Japanese Art,” in the Sturt Haaga Gallery and runs through May 21. Gardens hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. The gallery is open, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission $15; $11 ages 65 and older and student with valid ID; $5 ages 5-12. Location, 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintidge. 818-949-4200. descansogardens.org

Duarte Historical Museum: Closed for remodeling. Scheduled re-opening May 6. Hours: 1-3 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays of the month, and 1-4 p.m. Saturdays. Admission is free/donation. Encanto Park, 777 Encanto Parkway. 626-357-9419. www.ranchodeduarte.org

Kidspace Children’s Museum: The 27th annual “Butterfly Season” at the museum is open with children’s activities including going on a big safari, playing dress-up, viewing live caterpillars, moths and honeybees, through May 14. Also, learn from “Los Trompos,” an interactive art installation that honors the monarch butterfly’s cultural and ecological ties to Mexico. Tickets are by time and date: $14.95 ages 1-61; $12.95 ages 62 and older (purchase here: bit.ly/3mJOFoh). Location, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. 626-449-9144. kidspacemuseum.org

Los Angeles Arboretum and Botanic Garden: Hours: 9 a.m.-7 p.m. daily. Purchase tickets online and in advance. Admission $15; $11 ages 62 and older and students with ID; $5 ages 5-12. Due to construction of a new visitor entrance, entrance is temporarily at the south parking lot and north of Ayres Hall. The arboretum is at 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia. 626-821-3222. arboretum.org

Monrovia Historical Museum: Explore the museum, 1-4 p.m. Thursday and Sunday. Docent-led tours are available. Free admission/donation. The museum is at 742 E. Lemon Ave., Monrovia. 626-357-9537. monroviahistoricalmuseum.org

Norton Simon Museum: New exhibit: “All Consuming: Art and the Essence of Food,” through Aug. 14. Ongoing special exhibit: “Saint Sebastian: Anatomy of a Sculpture,” learn about the 15th-century Italian painted sculpture from the Norton Simon collections, through July 3. An online exhibit: “Representing Women: Gender and Portraiture in 17th Century Europe” (view here bit.ly/3zLRR9p). Hours: noon-5 p.m. Monday and Thursday-Sunday. Admission $15; $12 ages 62 and older; free for ages 18 and younger and students with a valid ID. Location, 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. 626-449-6840. nortonsimon.org

USC Pacific Asia Museum: Ongoing special exhibit: “Global Asias: Contemporary Asian and Asian American Art — From the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation,” through June 25. Also, explore the Sunkal Ceramics Gallery and the specific galleries for art of South and Southeast Asia, China, Himalaya, Pacific Island, Japan, Korea and Silk Road. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. Admission is by advance timed purchase, $10; $7 ages 65 and older and students with valid ID; free for ages 17 and under. Also, free admission from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursdays and on the second Sunday of the month. 46 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena. 626-787-2680. pacificasiamuseum.usc.edu

Whittier Museum: Exhibits on aspects of Whittier history including agriculture and Quaker settlers. Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 1-4 p.m. Saturday. Free admission/donations. Location, 6755 Newlin Ave., Whittier. 562-945-3871. Email: info@whittiermuseum.org. whittiermuseum.org/visit

Send calendar items to Anissa V. Rivera at sgvncalendar@gmail.com. Please send items at least three weeks before the event. Please list phone, email and/or website for additional information.

Two other suspects fled. Deputies detained the resident for questioning, Sheriff’s Lt. Mike Gomez said.

The coroner’s office has not yet identified the dead man, who Gomez described as between 45 to 50 years old.

The suspect, stabbed in his upper torso, was pronounced dead at the scene by the Los Angeles County Fire Department.

The confrontation was reported in the 1100 block of Thienes Avenue at 2:37 a.m. The resident had heard noises coming from the front of his house, took a kitchen knife and went out, Gomez said. “He is confronted by two to three individuals,” the lieutenant said, adding that the suspects were swinging what may have been the handle of a car jack at the resident.

Deputies found a man lying in a driveway near an older model Honda Accord with tools around him, Gomez said. The two other suspects left in a small compact car, last seen heading east on Thienes Avenue, he said.

He did not have detailed descriptions of the two suspects.

There were two other people inside the home at the time, Gomez said, but he didn’t know their relationship to the resident.

Anyone with information about the case can call the Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500. Anonymous tipsters can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or go to lacrimestoppers.org

Here is a sampling of things to do in the San Gabriel Valley and Whittier areas.

See green at St Patrick’s Day events around the San Gabriel Valley, including a party with Irish tunes and food from 4-11:30 p.m. March 17. Reservations. Mt. Lowe Brewing Company, 150 E. St. Joseph St., Arcadia. 626-244-7593. www.mtlowebrewing.com/

Check out pub crawls and other celebrations at your favorite Irish pubs. But don’t forget Italian Americans celebrate St Joseph’s feast day with St. Joseph’s Tables on March 19. Many local Catholic churches decorate cross-shaped tables with photos, sweets and other food in honor of Italy’s patron saint.

Special storytime: Molly Ruttan reads “Something Wild,” 11 a.m. March 18. Find out how Hannah overcomes her stage fright with some imaginative wishful thinking. Patrons who buy the book get to complete a craft after storytime. Vroman’s Bookstore, 695 Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. 626-449-5320. vromansbookstore.com

Third@First concerts: Concert series are on for the third Saturday of the month. March’s offering is the Bob Cole Chamber Choir from Cal State Long Beach, conducted by Jonathan Talberg, performing new music from around the world and celebrating the birthday of Johann Sebastian Bach, 4 p.m. March 18. Free/donations appreciated. First United Methodist Church of Pasadena, 500 E. Colorado Blvd. 626-796-0157. thirdatfirst.org

Electro Park: The City of Monterey Park presents the event with DJs playing house, discotech, electro and other electronic dance music, 4-10 p.m. March 18. All ages and family-friendly. Bring your own lawn seating and be ready to dance. Free admission, but reserve a spot here: bit.ly/3ZNP4sa. Barnes Park, 350 S. McPherrin Ave., Monterey Park. www.montereypark.ca.gov/electricpark

Los Angeles Vintage Paperback Collectors Show: Find that paperback book you’ve been searching for and meet authors and artists, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. March 19. Admission $10. Glendale Civic Auditorium, 1401 Verdugo Road. www.la-vintage-paperback-show.com/

Crown City Symphony: Arman Keyvanian conducts the orchestra with violinist David Park in a program with Schubert’s Symphony No. 8 and Saint-Saens’ Violin Concerto No. 3, at 2 p.m. March 19. Free admission. First Baptist Church of Pasadena, 75 N. Marengo Ave., Pasadena. 626-797-1994.

Workman and Temple Family Homestead Museum: In honor of Women’s History Month, take a look at the reasons behind women’s clothing styles during the 19th and early 20th century in “A Changing Silhouette.” 2 p.m. March 19. Costumer Natalie Meyer will lead the discussion, part fashion show and part hands-on experience. Free but reservations required: bit.ly/3F3rwa6. Location, 15415 E. Don Julian Road, City of Industry. For more information, 626-968-8492. homesteadmuseum.org

Pasadena Senior Games: Registration opens March 20 for the “Senior Games,” for adults 50 and older who are welcome to compete in 14 athletic events from archery to tennis. The games run from May 21 to July 15. Previous competition experience not required. Volunteers are also needed for many tasks. Volunteer by calling 626-685-6755 or email sports@pasadenaseniorcenter.org. For more information, 626-795-4331. To register, click on “Activities and Events” and then “Senior Games” on the website,   www.pasadenaseniorcenter.org

Vroman’s Bookstore: Eric Conway discusses “The Big Myth — How American Business Taught Us to Loathe Government and Love the Free Market,” 7 p.m. March 20. Cathleen Schine discusses “Künstlers in Paradise,” 7 p.m. March 21. Liam Callanan discusses “When In Rome,” 7 p.m. March 23. Local Author Day: Barbara Hanky-Rogers (“It’s a No Grainer Cookbook”). Laurie Markvart (“Somewhere in the Music, I’ll Find Me”) and Kenneth Strange Jr. (“It’s Your Camino — One Couple’s 100-Mile Pilgrimage Across Spain”) discuss their books, 4 p.m. March 26. Location, 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. 626-449-5320. vromans.com

Spring Career and Resource Fair: San Gabriel Valley GAIN Region III and City of El Monte Community Services presents the event, 9 a.m.-noon March 21. Bring copies of your resume. Meet with employers and get resumes critiques. Dress code: business. Free admission. South El Monte Community Center, 1530 Central Ave., South El Monte. 626-313-5392

Duarte Farmers Market: is open from 4 to 7:30 p.m. March 22 (and most other Wednesdays). Southeast corner of the Santa Teresita Assisted Living parking lot, 819 Buena Vista St., Duarte. duartechamber.com/duarte-farmers-market. Updates on Facebook: bit.ly/41OI0wJ

Taste of Art: Chef instructor Maite Gomez-Rejón recreates the romance of 16th century English travel in “The Romance of the Grand Tour,” 4-7:30 p.m. March 23. Participants will view British and French paintings, decorative arts and diaries, and then complete the tour by preparing spritzes and Venetian cicchetti worthy of a grand tourist. Minimum age: 21. Cost $90. Reservations required: huntington.org/event/taste-art-romance-grand-tour. The Huntington, 1151 Oxford Ave., San Marino. huntington.org

America’s Got Talent: Fans 8 and older can be part of the audience at the latest season of “America’s Got Talent” with Simon Cowell, Sofia Vergara, Heidi Klum, Howie Mandel and Terry Crews. Fans get an chance to take photos at the judges’ desk, win prizes and influence judges through their cheers. Filming for the show is various times per day on March 23, 25-26, 29-30; April 1-2 and 4-6. Sign up for free tickets on the website: on-camera-audiences.com/shows/Americas_Got_Talent. Pasadena Civic Auditorium, 300 E. Green St. www.visitpasadena.com/events/americas-got-talent

Peacock Day: Celebrate Arcadia’s favorite peafowl, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. March 25. Arrive in peacock cosplay (mind that this is a family event), take a guided walk, pose in a photo booth and sample a special menu (like a churro topped with peacock-colored sugar). Purchase timed admission in advance. Admission is $15 ages 18-61; $11 ages 62 and older and students; $5 ages 5-12. Los Angeles County Arboretum, 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia. 626-821-3222. arboretum.org

Party@PAM: Party at USC Pacific Asia Museum in honor of Rep. Judy Chu; Vinayak Bharne, professor of architecture at USC; and Keiko Fukazawa, Pasadena-based artist and educator. Event, 8-10 p.m. March 25. Admission $75. Reservations required by March 17. Location, 46 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena. 213-740-1744. pacificasiamuseum.usc.edu

Glendora Genealogical Group: Anne Sonner discusses “Tales of Mining in the Old West,” 6 p.m. March 28. Mark Cross will speak about telling a more robust family narrative at 7 p.m. Cross attended the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy, the Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research in Georgia, and is a graduate of ProGen 37. Free admission. La Fetra Senior Center, Elm Room,333 East Foothill Blvd., Glendora. 909-592-4030.

Whittier Women’s Club’s Spring Fling Boutique: More than 30 vendors will be on hand offering baked goods, handmade crafts, Easter and Mother’s Day items, jewelry, beauty items and plants, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 1. East Whittier United Methodist Church, 10005 Cole Road, Whittier. 562-857-0955. Email: princessberta@msn.com.

For cheese heads: Agnes Restaurant and Cheesery presents the return of “Cheese 101” class, 6 p.m. April 4. Tickets are $95 per person on Resy; wine pairing extra (bit.ly/3Thgion). Also, see reservations for a class on April 18. Agnes, 40 W. Green St., Pasadena. 626-389-3839. agnesla.com

Kidspace Children’s Museum: The 27th annual “Butterfly Season” at the museum is open with children’s activities including going on a big safari, playing dress-up, viewing live caterpillars, moths and honeybees, through May 14. Also, learn from “Los Trompos,” an interactive art installation that honors the monarch butterfly’s cultural and ecological ties to Mexico. Tickets are by time and date: $14.95 ages 1-61; $12.95 ages 62 and older (purchase here: bit.ly/3mJOFoh). Location, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. 626-449-9144. kidspacemuseum.org

USC Pacific Asia Museum: March 10: “Global Asias: Contemporary Asian and Asian American Art — From the Collections of Jordan D. Schnitzer and His Family Foundation,” through June 25. Also, explore the Sunkal Ceramics Gallery and the specific galleries for art of South and Southeast Asia, China, Himalaya, Pacific Island, Japan, Korea and Silk Road. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. Admission is by advance timed purchase, $10; $7 ages 65 and older and students with valid ID; free for ages 17 and under. Also, free admission from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursdays and on the second Sunday of the month. 46 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena. 626-787-2680. pacificasiamuseum.usc.edu

Ongoing

Dinos Alive Exhibit – An Immersive Experience: For all ages who love finding out about dinosaurs. The experience runs various times and dates: March 17-19, 23-26 and 30-31; April 1-2, 6-9, 13-16, 20-23, 27-30; May 4-7, 11-14. Timed tickets are required. Admission $20 and up. 1345 N. Montebello Blvd., Montebello. dinosalivelosangeles.com

Stranger Things – The Experience: The 45-minute immersion in all things based on the iconic Netflix show. Dates: March 17-19, 24-26 and 31; April 1-2, 7-9, 14-16. Unlock your power in the Hawkins Lab, enjoy an 80s-style medley of locations and fan-favorite moments, including photo ops, food and drink, and interact with performers. If you’ve still got that MTV jacket and shoulder pads, dress like it’s the 80s. Minimum recommended age: 13. Tickets $39 and up. Location, 1345 N. Montebello Blvd., Montebello. strangerthings-experience.com/los-angeles/#faqs; feverup.com

Book a castle visit: Rubel Castle is an elaborate folk-art medieval castle in the foothills of Glendora, with five-story tall towers solidly built out of junk and river rocks by the late Michael Rubel and his friends. The castle offers eight scheduled tours each month. Tours are two hours long. Admission is $20 for adults; $10 ages 8-18. The property is not ADA accessible; see website for details. Rubel Castle, 844 N. Live Oak Ave., Glendora. Glendora Historical Society voicemail, 626-963-0419. rubeltours.org

Descanso Gardens: Ongoing special art exhibit: “Shiki: The Four Seasons in Japanese Art,” in the Sturt Haaga Gallery and runs through May 21. Gardens hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. The gallery is open, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission $15; $11 ages 65 and older and student with valid ID; $5 ages 5-12. Location, 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintidge. 818-949-4200. descansogardens.org

Duarte Historical Museum: Closed for remodeling. Scheduled re-opening May 6. Hours: 1-3 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays of the month, and 1-4 p.m. Saturdays. Admission is free/donation. Encanto Park, 777 Encanto Parkway. 626-357-9419. www.ranchodeduarte.org

Monrovia Historical Museum: Explore the museum, 1-4 p.m. Thursday and Sunday. Docent-led tours are available. Free admission/donation. The museum is at 742 E. Lemon Ave., Monrovia. 626-357-9537. monroviahistoricalmuseum.org

Norton Simon Museum: Ongoing special exhibit: “Saint Sebastian: Anatomy of a Sculpture,” learn about the 15th-century Italian painted sculpture from the Norton Simon collections, through July 3. An online exhibit: “Representing Women: Gender and Portraiture in 17th Century Europe” (view here bit.ly/3zLRR9p). Hours: noon-5 p.m. Monday and Thursday-Sunday. Admission $15; $12 ages 62 and older; free for ages 18 and younger and students with a valid ID. Location, 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. 626-449-6840. nortonsimon.org

Send calendar items to Anissa V. Rivera at sgvncalendar@gmail.com. Please send items at least three weeks before the event. Please list phone, email and/or website for additional information.

Pasadena City College has used the property owned by El Monte Union for its Rosemead satellite campus since 2013, but the high school district previously announced it would let that lease expire this summer so it could begin construction on a permanent space for its Adult Transition Program, which serves about 100 students with disabilities who have aged out of the high school’s special education program.

In 2021, after a year of internal discussions, El Monte Union’s Board of Trustees voted to relocate the students — ranging in age from 18 to 22 — from deteriorating trailers in a parking lot to the Rosemead Boulevard property used by PCC. The board, which at that time included four of the five members currently in office, extended PCC’s lease to July 2023 as a courtesy and warned the community college there would not be an extension.

Now, just four months before the start of construction, three board members — Ricardo Padilla, Esthela Torres de Siegrist and Qui Nguyen — have reversed course and instead directed the district’s administration to reintegrate the Adult Transition Program students back into their high schools. The three board members fired the architects working on Rosemead project and then, in closed session, directed staff to reopen negotiations with Pasadena City College.

Both decisions received a majority only because of Torres de Siegrist, who works as an adjunct professor at PCC.

The district spent $1.1 million from the $190 million Measure HS bond on the designs for the Rosemead property and has another $200,000 to $300,000 in outstanding bills, according to a presentation at the board’s Jan. 18 meeting. The district has faced criticism in the past for lax oversight of bond monies.

Meeting turns chaotic

Board meetings about the future of the Adult Transition Program have descended into shouting matches among trustees, with accusations of wrongdoing lobbed against both sides.

“You’re the pathetic liar,” Padilla said to Trustee Florencio Briones during one heated exchange. Briones accused Padilla of not living in the district he represents, while Padilla accused Briones of lying about his education. Both referred to the other as “George Santos,” the U.S. representative from New York accused of fabricating his qualifications.

Padilla and his allies later passed a motion to censure Briones. There was no internal investigation and the unsubstantiated findings, presented Wednesday, Feb. 8, were authored solely by Padilla.

Student Trustee Ruben Carrazco, a senior at South El Monte High, expressed his disappointment in the elected board members’ squabbling and urged them to consider the impacts on the district’s students.

“The people in this district have given me so much, but tonight, as I stand here, I am embarrassed,” he said at one meeting. “I am embarrassed for you guys and I am embarrassed to be a part of it.”

Parent protests

Parents have protested at the last three meetings, calling for equity for the adult special education students and condemning the school board for allegedly trading the well-being of their students for approximately $600,000 a year in rent from Pasadena City College.

In interviews, parents of the adult students and staff at the transition program described the board’s actions as frustrating and potentially dangerous. What was supposed to be a long-awaited win for the students is now a source of anxiety. There is currently no plan for how the district will logistically and legally accomplish the board’s sudden edict.

Previously, El Monte Union held community workshops and conducted a feasibility study before voting to relocate the adult students to Rosemead in 2021. None of that happened this time around.

“It’s disheartening, they got these committees together before and asked for input, and told us we’re going to get a new site, and six months before that happens, it’s like the carpet got ripped out from under us,” said Katherine Alamillo, a special education teacher who has worked in the program for 10 years.

Conflict of interest?

Trustee Torres de Siegrist’s employment at PCC has sparked allegations that she violated conflict-of-interest laws. Parents and Briones have called for her to recuse herself from discussions, but, so far, she has not.

“I feel that not only does she have a conflict of interest because it is her employer,” Briones said in an interview, “but she also has an ethical obligation to be impartial.”

Instead, Torres de Siegrist appears to be advocating for PCC’s students over those in her own district, Briones alleged.

During the board’s Jan. 18 meeting, Torres de Siegrist said she told her boss, PCC President Erika Endrijonas, that there was a “new board” in power and suggested requesting a renewal of the lease. A spokesperson for PCC confirmed the meeting and Endrijonas formally sent a letter to the board in December.

“I saw Dr. Endrijonas and I asked her, are you still interested?” Torres de Siegrist said at the meeting.

Torres de Siegrist suggested she supported renewing the lease with PCC over using the site for the adult transition program because it would benefit more students. PCC students had also directly asked her to intervene, she said.

In a phone call, Torres de Siegrist declined to speak about her vote, or the alleged conflict. She directed questions to Padilla and to her son and attorney, David Torres-Siegrist.

Padilla told a reporter to contact the superintendent and then hung up when asked to explain his decisions as an elected official.

Torres-Siegrist denied there was any conflict with his mother’s actions, noting the board has not yet voted on renewing the lease with Pasadena City College.

“My mom has not participated in anything that would implicate a conflict of interest,” he said.

Torres de Siegrist has asked the district’s counsel for a legal opinion and will follow that advice once the lease is before the board, her attorney said. Superintendent Edward Zuniga confirmed the board directed staff in closed session to renegotiate the lease. He declined to say if the district’s attorneys have made a determination regarding any potential conflict. Two of the five board members have publicly stated they do not support renewing the lease.

‘Serious ethical concerns’

Public officials should generally err on the side of caution if there is even the potential for a conflict, said Sean McMorris, the transparency, ethics and accountability program manager at California Common Cause, a nonpartisan organization advocating for good governance.

“I do believe that she should have recused herself from voting to end the contract if she had already had interactions with people regarding the matter and the impetus was to renew the lease to the community college,” McMorris said. “The lawyers will need to decide if what took place was illegal, but, at a minimum, it does not look good.”

The California Public Reform Act states public officials with a conflict “may not make, participate in making, or in any way use or attempt to use his or her official position to influence a governmental decision when he or she knows or has reason to know he or she has a disqualifying financial interest.” Disqualifying financial interests include any source of income exceeding $500 in the previous 12 months. Torres de Siegrist is paid between $10,000 and $100,000 as a professor, according to her financial disclosures.

The board member’s discussions with the PCC president could also be seen as an attempt to influence the decision, McMorris said.

“It raises serious ethical concerns,” he said.

Jay Wierenga, spokesperson for the Fair Political Practices Commission, declined to comment on the specific allegations, but said it is always “the responsibility of any public official to know the law, to take efforts to know the law, to anticipate and know their potential conflicts, to ask for advice from their local agency counsel or the FPPC ahead of time, before any discussions or votes take place, or at the first instant of a discussion happening where they become aware of and/or should see the red flags ahead.”

Torres de Siegrist has not asked the FPPC to weigh in yet, but may in the future, according to Torres-Siegrist.

Current site floods, leaks, lacks privacy

The transition program has operated out of “temporary” trailers in a parking lot on Granada Avenue in El Monte for more than a decade. Parents and staff have complained of deteriorating conditions and dwindling space as the school’s population has grown. The entire campus is paved and floods during the rainy season and scorches during the summer.

Students eat their lunches under an awning outdoors, regardless of weather, because there is no indoor cafeteria.

Classrooms leak, the sewage system backs up during flooding — creating unbearable odors near the eating area — and private spaces are not available for adult changing rooms or the nurse’s office, the stakeholders said. The administrative offices aren’t even wheelchair accessible, forcing staff, students and parents to meet outside in some instances.

The decision to send students back to the high schools came suddenly, with only three weeks from the first motion to the last. Parents were caught off guard, said Paul Arellano, whose 20-year-old son attends the program.

“They had been promising us all along: ‘This is only temporary, your students are going to be in a new site,’” Arellano said. “We were shell-shocked.

“How am I feeling? Frustrated and unfortunately powerless,” he said.

What happens next?

After firing the architects, the school board had initially agreed at its Feb. 1 meeting to conduct a feasibility study to identify potential alternative locations for the transition program. Torres de Siegrist highlighted closed schools in neighboring districts that could be an option, including within the El Monte City School District, where her husband is board member.

But then at an emergency meeting Feb. 8, Torres de Siegrist rescinded her vote on the study. Padilla, Nguyen and Torres de Siegrist then passed a motion to direct staff to “immediately” integrate the students back into the high schools.

In comments at the meeting, the three members said they are attempting to promptly address the concerns about the conditions at the Granada Avenue site. Integration provides more opportunities for students, Padilla said when he first presented the idea.

“Integration is my keyword, not segregation in a parking lot all by themselves, where they never get to see students without disabilities,” Padilla explained. Other local school districts operate similar programs out of their comprehensive high schools, though few are the size of El Monte Union’s program.

The motion has been criticized by the two dissenting board members, staff and parents because of the lack of consultation with staff.

“The way they’re going about this, so quickly, is very concerning,” said Alamillo, the special education teacher. “And not just for the transition center, but for the entire district, for all students.”

Many of the adult transition students have behavioral issues and would need constant chaperones at the high schools, costing them the independence offered at the current site, she said. An adult student could become aggressive, or choose to disrobe or perform sexual acts in front of high school students, she said.

Alamillo, who joined the district in 2013, compared the adult transition program to going to community college or university. These students’ peers are other adults, not high schoolers, she said. Under integration, a student with a disability might take special education classes at the high school until 18 and then, instead of moving to a new site, they’d end up at the same school for four more years, depriving them of that next step in life, she said.

“This is their rite of passage, this is their opportunity to explore what they like. Let’s teach them to cook, let’s teach them to take the bus,” she said. “The high school is not the proper environment for an adult transition program of our size.”

In an interview, Superintendent Zuniga said the district staff do not know which sites could work yet. It hasn’t been decided whether the district will split up the 100 students across the six high schools, or build new space for the entire group on a single campus.

“It is going to take some time to plan everything thoroughly over the next coming months,” Zuniga said. “It is more about going back to the drawing board and looking at how we can make this work in a timely manner.”

El Monte Union will ensure the students receive the same, if not better, services wherever they end up, Zuniga pledged. He noted integration would give them access to the high schools’ cafeterias, gymnasiums and outdoor areas — amenities they do not have now.

The idea of integration was previously looked explored by a consulting firm. In 2020, when El Monte Union was first considering the move to Rosemead, the DRL Group ranked the district’s high schools below other options because of concerns about access to public transportation, limited space and the proximity to community businesses where the adult students might shadow workers.

Zuniga said his staff is weighing those same factors again as it investigates the best option for the students.

PCC might not stay long

Despite all of the turmoil, there’s a chance Pasadena City College won’t be a tenant for long even if its lease is renewed by El Monte Union.

The city college, fresh off passing the $450 million Measure PCC bond in 2022, is in the market to buy its own property in the area, according to spokesperson Alex Boekelheide.

“With the passage of Measure PCC, the college can continue its search for suitable property, but buying land and building a new building — or renovating an existing one — can take 2-7 years,” Boekelheide said. “While this effort is being made, we need PCC Rosemead to serve our students.”

Shally, a friend who had danced with him for 15 years, said that two-second move during a jive dance saved her life. But it cost Kao his.

Days after the mass shooting in Monterey Park, people who knew 72-year-old Yu-Lun Kao – known simply as “Andy” – remembered the dance aficionado as a kind person.

“His nickname was ‘Mr. Nice,’ ” said Shally’s husband, Francois.

“He was very nice to everybody,” said Francois, who asked that his last name not be published. “Some people go to the studio but they don’t know how to dance. He liked to help whoever needed help.”

Originally from Taiwan, Kao moved to California about 20 years ago, his brother, Alan Kao, told the New York Times.  Yu-Lun “Andy” Kao held dual citizenship from the U.S. and Taiwan, according to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Los Angeles. He worked as a construction contractor, public records show.

Kao was single and lived by himself in an apartment in South El Monte, where he was the only Asian tenant surrounded by Latino neighbors, and where he routinely played the saxophone in the evening, Vianeth Tellez, the apartment manager, said in an interview.

“He lived here for at least 15 years and was very friendly,” she said in Spanish. “Even those he couldn’t speak to (in Spanish,) he always greeted them.”

Margarita Catalan, another long-time tenant, was one of several who called him “una buena persona” – “a good person.”

“He was always very respectful and calm. And I loved to hear him on his saxophone,” Catalan said.

Playing an instrument may have been a strong interest, but “dancing was his passion,” according to his friend, Francois.

Kao practiced at different dance studios.  Last fall, a friend introduced him to the Evie Dance Studio in Pomona, where the crowd is predominantly Latino. Kao wanted to learn how to dance bachata and “street salsa,” which is less regimented than ballroom salsa.

“At first, he was coming once a week. Then he was coming three or four times a week,” said Evie Quinones, the studio’s owner.

“He was a very smart man. He learned very fast,” she said. “He wanted to learn so if he goes to any venue or any club other than a dance studio, he could do the steps and lead the ladies correctly,” Quinones said.

Kao tended to appear serious, she said, “because he was concentrating.”

“He always wore black: black pants, black shirt, black jacket and his black beanie. Once, after New Year’s, he came to the studio wearing a beautiful grey sweater and it got my attention because he always wore black. I told him, ‘You look handsome with that sweater.’ He gave me a little bit of a smile and kept going. He was a little embarrassed.”

“He had a routine when he walked in: say hello, go to a chair, do his stretches and then switch to dancing shoes.

“He always carried his dancing shoes.”

While he was seen as more serious at the newer studio, Francois said that with his close friends he was quick to laugh and enjoyed good conversations.

When Francois, not a dancer, and Shally, a devout dancer, married three years ago, she stipulated she loved to dance and wanted to continue with her long-time dance partner, Kao. “So I checked him out and he was a very nice guy,” said Francois, who also became friends with Kao.

Kao was a long-time regular at the Star Ballroom Dance Studio in Monterey Park, where he was attending a Lunar New Year party Jan. 21. That night, a gunman shot 20 people, killing 11, before attempting to strike a second time at the Lai Lai Ballroom & Studio in Alhambra, according to police. Brandon Tsay, 26, whose family owns the Alhambra studio, disarmed the gunman, Huu Can Tran, during a struggle.

The following morning, police found Tran parked in Torrance, where they engaged in a standoff. He killed himself inside the van he was driving, according to authorities.

Francois and Shally are still processing what happened the night of Jan. 21.

Shally was dancing the jive with Kao when she first heard what she thought were firecrackers. Others in the salon – decorated with Chinese New Year balloons and trinkets – were line dancing.

In a Gofundme page he set up, Francois wrote that Kao “protected my wife by taking the bullet for her.” In an interview, he clarified that the couple believes it was Kao’s dance move at the exact time that the gunman began shooting in the room that saved her but struck him instead.

Shally dragged her dance partner under a table so they could both take cover, her husband said. From there, “she saw him reloading the gun,” he continued.

“That’s why she told Andy don’t make any noise. ‘Don’t make a sound. Don’t make a sound, just lay down,’” Francois said, recounting what Shally had told Kao as he tried to speak.

“She closed her eyes and she told me she prayed.”

After the shooter left, Shally said she tried to “wake up my partner, ‘Wake up. Wake up.’ He don’t respond at all,” she told ABC News. Then she saw blood on her hands. “Am I got shot?… I was yelling too loud, ‘Am I got shot?”

Shally declined to be interviewed, saying she had spoken with TV crews and needed time away from the national media that has swarmed Monterey Park and its neighboring communities.

“She needs time,” Francois said. “Me too. I need time to process it.”

“Both of us are trying to not cry in front of each other. If one cries, the other starts crying. We’re both trying to stay strong for each other.”

In the meantime, wanting to do something for their friend Andy, the couple held on Thursday the first of a three-day fundraiser at their Arcadia Donuts shop in Arcadia. All proceeds, added to the GoFundMe page they set up, will go toward paying for Kao’s funeral, Francois said.

The donut fundraiser was a success.

“The first customer said, ‘I want everything,’” Francois recounted Thursday morning of a customer that bought every donut within sight to take back to police and fire stations.

A second batch of donuts in the back quickly sold next.

Community members poured in Thursday morning to support the couple’s quest to do something nice – for the dancer known as “Mr. Nice.”

Things to do in the San Gabriel Valley and Whittier areas, Oct. 28 to Nov. 4.

Celtic band Tannahill Weavers take the stage at 8 p.m. Oct. 29. The Scottish quartet will perform ballads and jigs on flute, whistles, bodhran, fiddle and bouzouki. Tickets $25; $10 children. Caltech’s Beckman Auditorium, 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena. . pasadenafolkmusicsociety.org

Cal Poly Pumpkin Fest: Fall family fun at the 29th event that includes activities for children, contests and games, a petting farm, pumpkin picking, corn mazes, hay rides, the Moo Moo Cow Train and pumpkin art in “Pumpkin Land.” Hours: 3-7:30 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. Check the “Attractions” page for information for weekends-only attractions (including musical entertainment, the Marketplace and the Ag Demo Zone). Event runs through Oct. 30. Admission $6; $5 ages 3-12; $4 ages 65 and older on Friday; $10; $7 ages 65 and older and ages 3-12 (admission must be purchased in advance and online; bit.ly/3fHgBsN). Cashless for festival attractions (details on attractions, ticket prices and wristbands: bit.ly/3axNfY4). Cash-only for many food vendors and arts and crafts vendors. Pumpkin prices vary. AGRIscapes Center, 4102 S. University Drive, Pomona. www.cpp.edu/~pumpkinfestival/

Haunted stroll: Children ages 10 and younger are invited tp come dressed in their costume best for a trick-or-treat stroll, 6:30-8 p.m. Oct. 28. Free admission. Holy Angels School, 360 Campus Drive, Arcadia. Scroll to the Oct. 4 posting for details: www.facebook.com/holyangelsarcadia/

Radio Golf: A Noise Within presents the play by Pulitzer Prize-winner August Wilson about a Black businessman confronted with a moral dilemma over a redevelopment deal, 8 p.m. Oct. 22. Minimum age: 12. Show runs 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 8 p.m. Friday; 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday; through Nov. 13. Tickets $18 and up for previews; $25 and up for run of the show. A Noise Within Theatre, 3352 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. anoisewithin.org; www.anoisewithin.org/play/radio-golf/

Makers Hive Market: Meet more than 20 local makers, check out Instagram-worthy photo ops, make children’s crafts and sample offerings from local eateries, 1-6 p.m. Oct. 29. Free admission. Glendora Public Market, 905 E. Arrow Highway, Glendora. For information on Makers Hive Market on Instagram, bit.ly/3L9wqEv, or here, linktr.ee/themakershivemarket. Glendorapublicmarket.com

Glendora Halloween Carnival: Make plans to attend, 5-8 p.m. Oct. 29. Event includes games, bounce houses, food and attractions. Free admission. Finkbiner Park, 160 N. Wabash Ave., Glendora. Details: bit.ly/3T6EQze

Harvest festival: The city of South El Monte Community Services Department invites the public to its harvest festival, 5-9 p.m. Oct. 29. Treat yourself to games, hotdogs, candy, snow cones and popcorn from SEM Community Outreach. Valley Community Church provides the entertainment. Location, front lawn of City Hall, 1415 Santa Anita Ave., South El Monte. .

Freedom Philharmonic: The orchestra, conducted by Clyde Mitchell, debuts “Freedom for All!” with seven soloists and the SoCAL Chorale, directed by Marya Basaraba, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 29. The program includes music by Beethoven, Dvořák, Orff, Puccini, Schubert, Strauss, Verdi and Andrew Lloyd Webber. A pre-concert chat begins at 6:30 p.m. Tickets start at $32. Pasadena Civic Auditorium, 300 E. Green St., Pasadena. freedomphilharmonic.org

All Souls Requiem – Holy Trinity Church: The parish choir will sing “Messe de Morts” (“Mass of the Dead”) by Marc-Antoine Charpentier, 4 p.m. Oct. 30. The requiem is followed by a celebration of Día de los Muertos, with Ballet Folklorico Internacional,  ofrendas (altars of remembrance) and traditional food and drink. Location, 100 N. Third Ave., Covina. www.holytrinitycovina.com/events/announcements/

Children’s Halloween Walk: Children are invited to trick-or-treat at local businesses, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 31, in downtown Glendora. glendora-chamber.org. Details: bit.ly/3Esn9Gg, and here glendoravillage.com/events

Trick-or-Treat and Halloween Bash in Monrovia: Register at 3 p.m. Oct. 31 for a costume contest for children and family group, and 3:30 p.m. for a costumed dog parade. “Parade of Characters” is by age groups (0-2; 3-4; 5-7; 8-10; 11-14 and family group. The “Halloween Bash” runs from 3-6 p.m. at Library Park, 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia. Activities at the park include arts and crafts and photo booths. Trick-or-treating is also 3-6 p.m. Oct. 31 but in Old Town Monrovia (street closures, 1-7 p.m., include Myrtle Avenue between Palm and Walnut avenues; the 100 block of West Palm Avenue and the 100 block of West Lime Avenue). . See the flyer here: bit.ly/3sqMQjn

Tuesday Musicale of Pasadena: Concert that includes music by Dohnanyi and performed by violinist Linda Tajima, violaist Tammy Cognetta and cellist Elizabeth Wood; Sonata for Violin by Max Reger is performed Peter Chang; songs from “Psyche” sung by Gwendolyn Brown; and piano duos by Brahms performed by Laurey Dickey and Louise Earhart, 12:30 p.m. Nov. 1. Free. Altadena Baptist Church, 791 E. Calaveras St., Altadena. tmpasca.org/public-events/

Vroman’s Bookstore: Memoirs come to the fore at three events, starting with Jemele Hill discussing “Uphill: A Memoir,” 7 p.m. Nov. 1; Steve Lopez discuses “Independence Day: What I Learned about Retirement from Some Who’ve Done It and Some Who Never Will,” 7 p.m. Nov. 2; Margo Price discusses “Maybe We’ll Make It,” 7 p.m. Nov. 3. The “Fierce Reads Fall Tour” brings Judy I. Lin (“A Venom Dark and Sweet”) and Joan He (“Strike the Zither”) to discuss their latest young adult books, 7 p.m. Nov. 4. Robert Crais discusses “Racing the Light,” 4 p.m. Nov. 5. Location, 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. For more information, . vromansbookstore.com

Huntington Museum – Online Book Talk: Pasadena Literary Alliance co-hosts an online book talk by author Richard White discusses “Who Killed Jane Stanford? A Gilded Age Tale of Murder, Deceit, Spirits and the Birth of a University,” noon-1 p.m. Nov. 2. Register on the website to receive the Zoom link (bit.ly/3FaWNce). Free to attend. . huntington.org

Pasadena Senior Center activities: Free events and activities for ages 50 and older including “Standards and Show Tunes with Bob and Don,” at 2 p.m. Nov. 3 (make a reservation to attend). Low-income adults 60 and older with valid IDs get a free box of food from 8:30-10:30 a.m. Nov. 4, at the center. Movie matinees for members, 1 p.m. on most Fridays (Pasadena Senior Center membership $45 for one year). Location, 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena. . www.pasadenaseniorcenter.org

Sacred Heart Retreat House Fall Family Festival: The 41st festival with treats from the sisters’ Carmel Kitchen, gifts from the boutique, photos with Santa and celebration of the Mass, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 5. Free admission. Sacred Heart Retreat House, 920 E. Alhambra Road, Alhambra. . sacredheartretreathouse.com/familyfestival

CraftoberFest: Throw on your finest lederhosen or dirndl and get your tickets to the event, 12:30-5 p.m. Nov. 5. The all-ages event includes food and music. Tickets start at $45. The Greens of the Rose Bowl, 1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena. For more information, craftoberfestlosangeles.com

Haunted Whittier: Jacob Caputo leads a spooky tour that spirits you away to a haunted Whittier, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 10. Tickets $20. Meet at the Modern Shaman Restaurant, 6744 Greenleaf Ave. (mention the tour and get a discount on your meal). Purchase tickets here: bit.ly/3MEosnz

Save the date for It’s a Wonderful Life: The Whittier College Department of Theatre, Film, and Communication Arts presents a live radio play written by Joe Landry, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 15-18. Robinson Theatre, 6760 Painter Ave., Whittier. . www.whittier.edu/academics/tfca/productions

Ongoing

Carved – Descanso Gardens: Walk-through display of thousands of carved pumpkins, a pumpkin house, a hay maze and pumpkin-carving artists giving sculpting demonstrations, through Oct. 31. Check the website for time slots. Admission $38 (must be purchased in advance). 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge. descansogardens.org

Dinos Alive Exhibit – An Immersive Experience: For all ages who love finding out about dinosaurs. The experience runs various times and dates: Oct. 28-30; Nov. 2-6, 9-13, 16-20, 23, 25-27 and 30; Dec. 1-4. Timed tickets are required. Admission $20 and up. 1345 N. Montebello Blvd., Montebello. dinosalivelosangeles.com

West Covina Farmers Market: The market is open from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays all year long. Get the freshest fruit and vegetables, prepared foods and artisan crafts. Location, 195 Glendora Ave., West Covina. Email: fmlce123@gmail.com. City of West Covina page: bit.ly/3B7w9ND. www.facebook.com/westcovinafarmersmarket/

Music in the Garden of Flowing Fragrance: Enjoy a solo musician’s performance, 1-3 p.m. on Wednesdays in the Chinese Garden at the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. Musicians may be performing on a dizi, erhu or a pipa. Concerts are free with admission (weekday admission: $25; $21 ages 65 and older and students; $13 ages 4-11). 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino. huntington.org

Duarte Farmer’s Market: The weekly farmer’s market is open, 4-7:30 p.m. Nov. 2, and other Wednesdays. The market also has local bakery offerings and food trucks. SNAP/EBT cards are accepted. Southeast corner of Santa Teresita Assisted Living parking lot, 819 Buena Vista St., Duarte. www.duartechamber.com/duarte-farmers-market

Whittier Night Market: Whittier Uptown Association presents event with art, food and vendors, 4:30-8:30 p.m. Nov. 2, and other Wednesdays. Greenleaf Avenue, from Bailey to Wardman streets. whittieruptown.org

Duarte Historical Museum: Hours: 1-3 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays of the month, and 1-4 p.m. Saturdays. Admission is free/donation. Encanto Park, 777 Encanto Parkway. www.ranchodeduarte.org

Harris Gallery at the University of La Verne: Ongoing special exhibit: “Welcome Here!” a group exhibit explores the “geographic reimagination of Americana and its diversity,” through Oct. 27. Artists include Anne H. Berry + Sarah Edmands Martin, Mariana Braña, Theron Brown, Samantha Gonzalez, Laryssa Lahn, Fel Nikoli McCoy, Marco Rodastorres, Brianna De Santiago, Dana Sperry, Mercedes Teixido, Arnold Tunstall. The show is curated by Jennifer Vanderpool. The gallery is located in the Landis Academic Center, 1950 Third St., La Verne. or email: Dion Johnson at djohnson@laverne.edu. Details: bit.ly/3pXFMte

Kidspace Children’s Museum: “Kidspace Halloween” that involves making wands, masks and accessories at a costume creation station, decorating a pumpkin ($3, and can be purchased online with your ticket reservation) and meeting a spider and learn about webs. Halloween parades happen at 11:15 a.m. and 3:15 p.m. on Oct. 28 and Oct. 31; and 11:15 a.m., 2:15 and 3:45 p.m. Oct. 29-30. Ongoing outdoor exhibit: “Muddy Boot Farm” invites children to learn the process of getting food from a farm to a market. Children prepare, sort, weigh, explore and imagine themselves immersed in farm life. Admission $14.95; $12.95 for ages 62 and older. Location, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. www.kidspacemuseum.org

Monrovia Historical Museum: Explore the museum, 1-4 p.m. Thursday and Sunday. Docent-led tours are available. Free admission/donation. The museum is at 742 E. Lemon Ave., Monrovia. monroviahistoricalmuseum.org

Peter and Merle Mullin Gallery – ArtCenter: “Victor Estrada: Purple Mexican,” through Feb. 26. Estrada’s more than 30-year career in abstract art inspired by the cultural landscape of Los Angeles and the Southwest. Free admission. Gallery hours: noon to 5 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, at ArtCenter, 1111 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena. ArtCenter, South Campus, 1111 S. Arroyo Parkway, Pasadena. Email: exhibitions@artcenter.edu. Gallery details: bit.ly/3ESJeho. Exhibit details: bit.ly/3yQQWou

Norton Simon Museum: Ongoing special exhibits: “Paul Gauguin’s ‘The Swineherd,’” 1888, on loan from the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, through Nov. 14. “Modernism in Miniature,” through Jan. 9. Also, an online exhibit: “Representing Women: Gender and Portraiture in 17th Century Europe” (view here bit.ly/3zLRR9p). Hours: noon-5 p.m. Monday and Thursday-Sunday. Admission $15; $12 ages 62 and older; free for ages 18 and younger and students with a valid ID. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. nortonsimon.org

USC Pacific Asia Museum: Ongoing special exhibit: “After Modernism: Through the Lens of Wayne Thom,” through Jan. 22. Thom photographed more than 2,600 architectural projects across the United States, including Hawaii, Bali, Fiji and Singapore. Also, explore the Sunkal Ceramics Gallery and the specific galleries for art of South and Southeast Asia, China, Himalaya, Pacific Island, Japan, Korea and Silk Road. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday. Admission is by advance timed purchase, $10; $7 ages 65 and older and students with valid ID; free for ages 17 and under. Also, free admission from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursdays and on the second Sunday of the month. 46 N. Los Robles Ave., Pasadena. pacificasiamuseum.usc.edu

Send calendar items to Anissa V. Rivera at sgvncalendar@gmail.com. Please send items at least three weeks before the event. Please list phone, email and/or website for additional information.

South El Monte has two cannabis measures on the Nov. 8 ballot, Baldwin Park has one. All three ask for a yes or no response, and each would require a simple majority to win.

Baldwin Park has on its ballot Measure CB. It would allow “cannabis retailers to sell and deliver medical cannabis and cannabis products to adults, and adult-use cannabis and cannabis products to persons 21 years and older, with retailers paying a .5% tax and 4% tax on gross receipts from sales, respectively.” It would generate between $300,000 to $3 million annually for general government use, also authorizing the City Council to modify rates to up to 5%, until repealed by voters, according to the measure.

Measure CM in South El Monte would permit and regulate limited cannabis retail businesses — one adult-use/medical with the option of up to three total after the measure’s first year. It would establish a general tax at a maximum of 8% “of noncultivation cannabis business proceeds and $25/square foot of cultivation space. It would  generate about $720,000 annually for general City services” such as police and maintenance, according to the measure.

Measure X would permit and regulate cannabis businesses (5 dispensaries, 2 cultivation, 1 testing facility, 2 manufactures/distributors), while establishing a maximum 6% special tax on retail cannabis/edibles sales. It would generate about $126,000 each year until, until ended by voters, for specific municipal programs.

Baldwin Park, El Monte, Monrovia and Pasadena are the only San Gabriel Valley cities currently allowing any kind of business related to cannabis, according to the state’s Department of Cannabis Control website.

At it stands, the type of cannabis business currently allowed in Baldwin Park is manufacturing.

“The measure does not expand zoning for cannabis, it instead allows for two retail stores in industrial areas, where manufacturing or cultivation is already taking place,” Baldwin Park Mayor Emmanuel J. Estrada said.

Estrada and his counterpart in South El Monte, Mayor Gloria Olmos, have contrasting perspectives on the similar measures in each city.

“This can help increase attention to those areas, increasing attention to safety and aesthetics,” Estrada said. “Cannabis is a recession-proof industry. This would be an opportunity to increase revenue without it being at the expense of residents and taxpayers, overall.”

Estrada also noted what he said would be the measure’s emphasis on union jobs “with benefits for our community,”

“The measure also calls for labor-organized retail, meaning high-paying union jobs with benefits for our community,” Estrada said.

In South El Monte, Olmos wasn’t against marijuana per se, especially from a medical standpoint.

“I understand that people need it,” she said. “I get that.”

But she doesn’t like the way either measure is written, and opposes both of them.

“Measure X is an excessive amount for a 2.5-mile radius city,” she said, alluding to the five dispensaries proposed.

She’s concerned about reports of rises in crime in cities with dispensaries, as well. Sure, some of the funds are going to be intended for public safety.

“However, they’re going to need more sheriffs because of the crime’s going up,” Olmos said.

She’s also not convinced that the potential funds generated from the measures will go where they are earmarked to go, adding that if the measures fail, she would be open to endorsing re-written measures.

South El Monte’s neighbor — El Monte — in November 2021 opened its first marijuana dispensary. It was No. 8 for Catalyst Cannabis.

Catalyst – which has emerged as a leading backer of efforts to get such measures passed in cities that have traditionally not allowed them — opened its first dispensary in 2017 in the Belmont Shore section of Long Beach, which began to allow medical marijuana dispensaries in 2009. Ultimately, Catalyst opened severals stores after christening the first legal dispensary in the city of El Monte last year.

Such efforts come as the industry itself struggles to gain footing, six years after voters approved Proposition 64, which allows residents 21 years old or older to buy, grow and use cannabis for recreational purposes.

Despite the fact the measure won, reports have noted that many public officials remain on the fence about dispensaries. And in many cases, issues over dispensaries have been mired in politics, lawsuits and scandal.

In 2018, Pasadena voters passed Measure CC, which along with allowing a certain number of dispensaries, also outlined a process intended to create more equitable ownership and employment opportunities for people who have been adversely affected by the war on drugs.

Instead, the process quickly became a furious “race to the window,” according to city documents, as retailers flocked to become the first to submit applications that would secure one of six conditional-use permits. Those permits, according to the city, were valued at millions of dollars. But the process led to charges of unfairness.

This month, longtime Baldwin Park City Attorney Robert Tafoya resigned, after allegations that he came up with the idea of a bribery scheme in which the city’s former councilman, Richard Pacheco, collected at least $170,000 in payoffs from cannabis companies.”

Jurors deliberated about two hours before finding Anthony Davis guilty of the Jan. 7, 1978, slaying of Rudolfo Chavez, 42, who was stabbed 45 times, according to Deputy District Attorney Sarika Kim.

A motel employee found the victim dead in a room at the Spic and Span motel the next day.

Investigators linked Davis to semen found on a bedspread that also contained the victim’s blood, along with a fingerprint on the inside of the motel room door, although the defendant denied ever being at the motel, the deputy district attorney said.

The prosecutor said that the victim was found naked, and that authorities believe some sort of sexual activity had occurred just before he was killed.

The motive for the attack was not clear, Kim said.

Davis was arrested in February 2021 by Los Angeles County sheriff’s investigators and has remained behind bars since then, jail records show.

He is due back in a Pomona courtroom for sentencing Nov. 17. It was not immediately clear how much time he will face in state prison under sentencing guidelines that were in place at the time of the crime.