This year, Arcadia has been through many firsts. Here are the Top Ten Events in Arcadia that I believe affected many in this community, whether in spirit, pride, or cooperation.
Emily Zheng
<Editor’s Note: blogger Emily Zheng is a freshman at Arcadia High School.>
1.) Historical Winds Hit Arcadia With around 500 trees down, 28 vehicles damaged, 61 structures damaged, and 129 downed wires, the 60 mph winds that hit Arcadia on December 1, 2011 was a first for many residents.
2.) Death threat lock-down at Arcadia High School A note threatening the lives of people at Arcadia High School and Holly Ave. Elementary School sparked a school-wide lock-down for nearly four hours on November 1, 2011.
3.) Metro Gold Line Construction Begins The “Gateway to the San Gabriel Valley” is scheduled to be open in 2015, starting construction in Arcadia this year.
4.) Arcadia Educational Foundation Fundraiser Arcadia High School students raised more than $306,000 in their “Million Dollar Fundraiser” in April.
5.) First annual Arcadia’s Best Patriotic Festival Sponsored by Arcadia’s Best Foundation, it was the first parade held in 75 years. It featured a community parade, gourmet food trucks, a car show, street fair, photo contest, and performances by local groups.
6.) AHS Named a Top STEM School US News & World Report recently named Arcadia High School as one of the top 208 high schools in the United States for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.
7.) New Hospital tower dedicated at Methodist Hospital A new $140 million six-floor patient tower and emergency room was dedicated in September. Among its many features include five specialty rooms, a new heart monitor system, and 20 new critical care beds.
8.) Arcadia High School Percussion National Champions The Arcadia High School Varsity (World) Percussion line are now national champions after winning at the 2011 WGI World Percussion Championships finals.
9.) Arcadia presented APA Awards The American Planning Association recognizes outstanding planning and environmental achievements by individuals, cities and business. The efforts of these individuals and organizations are honored for innovative and exceptional planning for the physical environment.
10.) Grand opening of the Dana Gym The 8,700 square-foot building represents the first and only gymnasium operated by the school or the city other than those at the high school, shared between Arcadia Recreation and Dana Middle School.
What are some more fascinating events that happened in Arcadia this year? Comment below!