🍩 Donuts, plants, art... and insurance? Only here

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Welcome to the very first issue of Foothills Connection.

Over 2,600 of you subscribed in just 17 days, and this is the moment it all begins.

This newsletter was born out of love for our Foothill cities: Glendora, La Verne, San Dimas, and Claremont. It’s where I’ve raised my kids, coached youth sports, built a business, and shared life with so many of you. These are the gem cities of the Angeles National Forest, and the people here are what make them shine; caring, loyal, smart, and deeply connected to one another.

Together, through this newsletter, we can keep our communities strong, visible, and full of life, the pride of the Foothills.

Each week, you’ll find a curated mix of local events, community news, featured businesses, and a Real Estate Corner: thoughtfully written, never noisy.

🙌 If you enjoy it, do us a favor. Share this with a neighbor or friend. The more locals who read it, the stronger our community becomes.

Some donut shops are stops, but The Donut Man in Glendora is a pilgrimage.

Voted number one in our last newsletter poll, this Route 66 classic has drawn crowds since 1972 for its legendary fresh strawberry donut, a seasonal masterpiece stuffed with glossy, ripe berries.

Every pastry is still handmade on site, giving each its own imperfect charm. Whether you roll up at noon or 2 a.m., quality and tradition are always waiting. Learn more here.

You’re not alone. Insurance is changing fast, and Barbara Larkin’s local Allstate team is here to help you stay covered.

• Auto & home quotes from real agents in La Verne & Glendora

• We speak human (and Spanish and Vietnamese), not call-center

• No pressure; just smart, local guidance

👉 Start your quote with a real local person here.

Tucked into 86 peaceful acres in Claremont, California Botanic Garden is a living showcase of over 22,000 native plants, from vibrant wildflowers to rare species found nowhere else.

Stroll shaded paths, spot butterflies and birds, or wander into the Grow Native Nursery for plants to bring home. The garden feels like a retreat from the city, with blooms and landscapes changing through the seasons, making every visit a little different. Learn more here.

Set on a serene street in Chanteclair neighborhood, this single-level estate shines with soaring ceilings, sunlit gardens, and year-round blooms. With fully paid solar, smart security, and a sparkling pool, it blends comfort, beauty, and ease. View property here.

The Gist: Glendora’s Timothy Crowther Teen & Family Center is buzzing this summer with drop-in programs for middle schoolers. Teens can dive into arts and crafts, games, homework help, and monthly leadership activities through Teens for Glendora (T4G), all in a fun, supportive space.

Why It Matters: It gives local youth a safe hangout spot while building confidence, friendships, and community pride. Programs run all summer at 241 W. Dawson Ave. Details at the City of Glendora site.

The Gist: The long-awaited La Verne/Fairplex station on Metro’s A Line is in its final testing phase and will officially open September 19, 2025. Located near Arrow Highway and E Street, the stop links directly to the University of La Verne and sits a block north of Fairplex.

Why It Matters: This new connection will make it easier for locals to commute, boost Fairplex events, and tie La Verne closer into LA County’s growing rail network. A planned pedestrian bridge will link the station to Fairplex and the Metrolink stop.

🎨 Art Walk: Pieces of a Poet | starts at the Chamber Gallery | Claremont | 09/06 | More
Free, self-guided gallery stroll with rotating exhibits and artist meetups.

✈️ A Taste of Travel | La Fetra Center | Glendora | 09/06 | More
Discover upcoming tours with refreshments, prizes, and expert travel insights.

🍏 Farmers & Artisans Market | Harvard Ave N and W 1st St. | Claremont | 09/07 | More
Fresh produce, crafts, and vibrant village strolls every Sunday morning.

🚗 Car Cruise | Legends Classic Diner | Glendora | 09/07 | More
Cool cars, comfort food, and Route 66 vibes for a casual Sunday cruise night.

🖼 Harris Gallery: Material Worlds Reception | ULV | La Verne | 09/09 | More
Dive into vibrant mixed-media art, meet the creators, and toast creativity.

🎉 KEBM Play Center Grand Opening | 538 W Bonita Ave | San Dimas | 09/10 | More
Ribbon-cutting and play-center tour with demos and community networking.