Earthquake Workshop Gets Seismic Response - Will Also Be Online

The number of people wanting to attend the earthquake workshop on Saturday, Sept. 14, at 11 a.m. has far exceeded expectations, so KGEM will work with the Historic Preservation Group and Fire Department to stream the workshop both live and for later viewing on YouTube, here.

- Brad Haugaard

Police Sponsor Blood Drive Sept. 12 at Community Center

Monrovia Police Department will host a blood drive Thursday, Sept. 12, at the Community Center (119 W. Palm), 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Free t-shirt for donors. Register here. Use sponsorship code "bob23" in the search field.

- Brad Haugaard

Pizza for Parks Foundation

The Parks, Wilderness, and Recreation Foundation has arranged with Blaze Pizza to donate 20% of its proceeds on Thursday, Sept. 12, 5 to 8 p.m. to MPWRF programs and scholarships.

- Brad Haugaard

Drop-In Pickle Tuesdays an Saturdays

Indoor Pickleball Open Play at Mary Wilcox Youth Center (843 E. Olive Avenue). Tuesdays 7 to 9 p.m., Saturdays 8 a.m. to noon. $2 fee per person (cash only). Waiver required. Ages 16 and under need adult supervision. Bring own equipment; limited supplies available. For information contact Community Center: 256-8228.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Today Magazine Now Online

The Fall Monrovia Today magazine is now online, with activities including Old Town Festival, Grateful and Thankful Event, and classes. Paper version coming soon. View online edition.

- Brad Haugaard

Get a Block Party in a Trailer

Monrovia Area Partnership is offering a Block Party trailer to Monrovians, containing various items to facilitate community events. The trailer includes cocktail tables, 6-foot tables, folding chairs, and picnic tables, as well as umbrellas, ice chests, and trash cans for convenience. Safety items such as a fire extinguisher and first aid kit are provided. For entertainment, the trailer comes with lawn games, sports equipment, and other amenities. The trailer is designed as a convenient way to host neighborhood gatherings. No personal use, business use, fundraisers, religious events, sporting events, political stuff, etc. Details here.

- Brad Haugaard

Council to Discuss Budget, Inclusionary Housing

At its next meeting (agenda here) the Monrovia City Council will ...

~ Consider proclaiming September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month  and  September 8-14 as  National Suicide Prevention Week.

~ The Council will also hold a study session to get an update on its 2024-25 budget, and to discuss "inclusionary housing," a type of program designed to provide housing for lower income families, often by requiring developers to set aside a percentage of a development's housing units for lower-income residents. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Man Sentenced to 60 Years in 2020 Killing

 A 29-year-old man has been sentenced to 60 years to life in prison for the killing of 27-year-old Antonio Zaza at Al’s Liquor store on Duarte Road in late 2020. (The linked-to article incorrectly says 2023.) Deon Armstrong shot Zaza, a stranger, on December 20. Trayvon Dixon, 24, acted as Armstrong’s lookout and was sentenced to 22 years. Tribune article and MonroviaNow article.

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: Three Car Collision; Drunk With Loaded Rifle; Stolen License Plates; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for August 22 – 28. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 422 service events, resulting in 87 investigations.

Grand Theft Auto
August 22 at 8:42 a.m., a caller in the 100 block of Montana reported his vehicle stolen. An investigation revealed the caller left his vehicle running while he went inside his house, when he returned his vehicle was gone. This investigation is continuing. 

Vehicle Burglary
August 22 at 10:13 a.m., an officer responded to a complex in the 800 block of S. Myrtle regarding a vehicle burglary. An investigation revealed the suspect took property from the victim’s vehicle and fled. This investigation is continuing. 

Battery – Suspect Arrested
August 22 at 12:58 p.m., a caller in a parking lot in the 700 block of W. Huntington reported two subjects fighting. Officers arrived and located the two subjects’ involved. The victim sustained minor injuries to his face. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody. 

Injury Traffic Collision
August 22 at 6:41 p.m., officers responded to the area of Magnolia and Huntington regarding a traffic collision. When officers arrived they contacted the involved parties and one party was transported to a hospital for treatment. 

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
August 22 at 7:59 p.m. a resident in the 800 block of W. Foothill reported that her ex- husband was outside her residence and was refusing to leave. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject. A computer search revealed he had multiple warrants for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody. 

Drug Activity – Suspect Arrested
August 22 at 11:55 p.m., an officer patrolling the 700 block of W. Huntington when he saw a vehicle, occupied by two subjects, loitering in the parking lot of businesses which were closed for business. The officer discovered one of the subjects was in possession of drug paraphernalia. The suspect was arrested and transported to the Monrovia PD jail for booking. 

Injury Traffic Collision
August 23 at 7:20 a.m., officers responded to the area of Primrose and Foothill regarding an injury traffic collision involving three vehicles. One of the parties involved complained of pain and were transported to a hospital for treatment. 

Mental Evaluation
August 23 at 10:25 a.m., officers responded to the area of Foothill and Madison regarding a male subject that fell and was bleeding from the head. Officers arrived and located the male subject, who was heavily intoxicated. Officers have contacted him numerous times in the past for falling down and sustaining injuries due to being heavily intoxicated. He was placed on a mental evaluation for being gravely disabled due to substance abuse and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. 

Lost / Stolen Plate
August 23 at 1:24 p.m., a caller in the 2600 block of S. Myrtle reported his license plate stolen. This investigation is continuing. 

Vehicle Burglary
August 23 at 4:41 p.m., a victim in the 400 block of W. Huntington reported a window to her vehicle was smashed and her purse was stolen while she was inside of a store. This investigation is continuing. 

Drug Activity / Warrants – Suspect Arrested
August 23 at 10:28 p.m., a caller in the area of Myrtle and Walnut reported a subject slumped over in his vehicle. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject and determined he was in possession of drug paraphernalia. A records search revealed he had warrants for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody. 

Driving Under the Influence / Weapons Offense – Suspect Arrested
August 23 at 10:29 p.m., an officer in the area of Peck and Live Oak conducted a traffic stop on a suspicious vehicle. The officer made contact with the driver who displayed symptoms of being intoxicated. A computer search revealed the driver was on probation for DUI. An investigation revealed he was intoxicated, in violation of his probation, a loaded rifle was found in his vehicle. He was arrested and taken into custody. 

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
August 24 at 12:20 a.m., while patrolling the 600 block of W. Huntington the officer saw a vehicle driving the wrong way. The officer conducted a traffic stop and made contact with the subject who displayed objective symptoms of intoxication. A DUI investigation revealed the driver was under the influence. The driver was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period. 

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
August 24 at 1:05 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of E. Pomona called to report a subject trespassing on her property. She was arrested and taken into custody. 

Injury Traffic Collision
August 24 at 1:34 p.m., a caller in the area of Huntington and Primrose reported a traffic collision. Officers arrived and made contact with the parties involved. One occupant complained of pain. The driver at fault was issued a citation. 

Injury Traffic Collision
August 24 at 3:38 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the area of Fifth and Duarte. Officers and Paramedics arrived and made contact with the parties involved. One driver suffered injuries and was transported to a hospital for treatment. This investigation is continuing. 

Grand Theft Auto Recovery
August 24 at 5:34 p.m., an officer patrolling the 200 block of Los Angeles located a stolen vehicle. The vehicle was recovered and the registered owner was notified. This investigation is continuing. 

Weapon Offense – Suspect Arrested
August 24 at 7:22 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 200 block of W. Foothill regarding subjects consuming alcohol in public. Officers arrived and made contact with the subjects. A computer search revealed one subject had a warrant for his arrest. An investigation revealed that subject was in possession of a fixed-blade knife. He was arrested and taken into custody. 

False Imprisonment – Suspect Arrested
August 25 at 3:12 p.m., a victim in the 1000 block of E. Huntington reported that she was involved in an argument with her boyfriend and he was not letting her leave. Officers arrived and attempted to make contact with the victim and her boyfriend, however, he refused to contact officers and would not allow the victim to contact the officers. Officers had to force entry into the home. The boyfriend was arrested and taken into custody. 

Grand Theft
August 25 at 3:43 p.m., an employee from a business in the 900 block of W. Foothill called to report that a subject entered the store and stole merchandise. This investigation is continuing. 

Shoplifting
August 26 at 11:02 a.m., a loss prevention officer for a store in the 500 block of W. Huntington called to make a shoplifting report. This investigation is continuing. 

Vandalism
August 27 at 4:55 p.m., a victim driving in the area of Colorado and Madison reported a male subject cut her off, stopped in front of her, got out of his vehicle, yelled at her, broke her side view mirror, and left the area. This investigation is continuing. 

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
August 27 at 7:56 p.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain regarding a male subject who stole merchandise and fled the store. Officers arrived and located the subject nearby. He was arrested and taken into custody. 

Drug Offense / Warrant Arrest – Suspects Arrested
August 28 at 2:47 a.m., an officer patrolling the area of Huntington and Encino saw a vehicle in violation of a vehicle code. The officer conducted a traffic stop and contacted the three vehicle occupants. A computer search revealed the driver and a female occupants had warrants for their arrest. An investigation revealed the driver was in possession of drug paraphernalia. They were arrested and taken into custody. 

Residential Burglary
August 28 at 10:04 p.m., a resident in the 800 block of W. Walnut reported a residential burglary. Officers arrived and made contact with the resident. An investigation revealed damage to a rear sliding door, the interior was ransacked, and property was taken. This investigation is continuing. 

Dinner at La Adelita

Dinner at La Adelita, on the south side of Colorado a little bit west of Ivy. Got a bean and cheese burrito for $9.95, plus $2 for avocado, and a beer for $6.50.  Very nice!

- Brad Haugaard 

Garden Design Workshop at Water District Headquarters, Sept. 21

Free 2-hour, in-person, garden design workshop on Sept. 21, 9-11 a.m. at the Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District headquarters at 248 E. Foothill Blvd., in Monrovia. Topics: Watershed-wise landscaping, rainwater capture, climate-appropriate plants, hydrozones. Details and registration here. 

- Brad Haugaard

One-Year-Old Trina is a 'Plug-and-Play' Dog - Well Trained and Cuddly

One-year-old Trina has been getting rave reviews from the volunteers at Pasadena Humane. They’ve said that she is such a loving and wonderful girl who loves cuddling on the couch or bed and playing fetch or chewing on her toys. Her favorites were squeaky toys, though she happily chews on any the toys given to her.

Trina recently went on an overnight field trip and was exceptionally well-behaved in the foster family’s apartment. She was clearly house-trained, never had any accidents, and knew how to sit on command (especially if you had treats handy). She rarely barked and showed no signs of anxiousness when left alone for short periods.

This sweet girl was also a wonderful work-from-home companion; During several work Zoom meetings, Trina was left alone in the bedroom with the door closed, and she was perfectly content, either sleeping or playing with her toys. She also enjoyed car rides, happily sitting in the back seat without any issues.

Trina is ready to be your plug-and-play dog! Come see for yourself and meet Trina today!

The adoption fee for dogs is $150. All dog adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.

Walk-in adoptions are available every day from 2:00 – 5:00. For those who prefer, adoption appointments are available daily from 10:30 – 1:30 and can be scheduled online. View photos of adoptable pets at pasadenahumane.org.

New adopters will receive a complimentary health-and-wellness exam from VCA Animal Hospitals, as well as a goody bag filled with information about how to care for your pet. Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email.

- Brad Haugaard

A Moment in Monrovia History: Monrovia Savings Bank - 1910

The caption on this photo from 1910 says, "Monrovia Savings Bank where Gilbert's store now stands" (No, Gilbert's is gone as well.) at Myrtle & Orange Ave. (Colorado) in the former First National location. Signs in window above bank: "Drs. C. Davies Physician Surgeon and Dr. L.L. Day, Dentist." To left a jeweler. A California law that prohibited commerical banks from paying interest on deposits prompted the formation of savings banks, including the Monrovia Saving Bank. From the Myron Hotchkiss collection. Hmm. I wonder which corner this was on. See full details here.

For more historic photos and papers, see the Monrovia Historical Society’s complete Legacy Project collection here. Learn more about the Monrovia Historical Society here.

- Brad Haugaard

Creative Projects for Teens at Library, Wednesday, Aug. 28

Pop-up Makerspace for Teens at Library on Wednesday, Aug. 28, 3:30 to 5 p.m. For grades 6-12. Creativity station with supplies for zines, bracelets, pins, buttons. Sphero Mini Bots for coding, 3D art pen available. No registration required. Details. 

- Brad Haugaard

Veterans Meetup Tuesday Aug. 27

Monthly Veterans Meetup at Starbucks (Magnolia and Huntington) on Tuesday, Aug. 27, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Veterans and military service members invited for free coffee, connections, and resource sharing. Veterans Service Officer or available to answer questions. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Merengue Bakery Plans Building Modifications

Proposed remodel of Merengue Bakery.

Merengue Bakery is asking the city's Historic Preservation Commission for its thoughts on a proposed facade remodel and addition to its building on Myrtle. The unused second floor (unused because the interior staircase was removed years ago) would be converted into a residential unit with an exterior staircase on the adjacent pedestrian ally. Details. 

- Brad Haugaard

Last Summer Art Walk of the Year, August 24 In Old Town

Last Summer Art Walk of the year, this Saturday, August 24.

- Brad Haugaard

Volunteers Wanted for Greening Projects on Sept. 14

Food ED is looking for volunteers to help transform Monrovia outdoor school spaces and greening projects on Saturday, September 14 from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Sign up here.

- Brad Haugaard

Clothing Drive to Support Monrovia High Music

There will be a clothing drive at Monrovia High School to support the school's musical arts program. Gently used or new clothes, shoes, bedding, towels, and linens. Drop-off dates: August 24, September 7, and 14, 9 a.m. to noon. Clean, sellable items in 13-gallon trash bags only. Drop-off point is on the east side of the school, but enter on the west side, at Madison Ave. parking lot (484 S. Madison Ave).

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Stinkin Crawfish

Dinner at Stinkin Crawfish, on the north side of Colorado a half block east of Myrtle. Got the Catfish and Fries for $14.25 and a beer for $6.50. Nice. Also, they give you a free dessert - deep fried Oreo and ice cream. 

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Truck Tailgate Stolen; Free Phone Fraud; Sleeping Driver Rolls Car; Car Thieves Crash Their Own Car; Drunks and Stuff ...

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for August 15 – 21. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 496 service events, resulting in 85 investigations. 

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
August 15 at 11:35 a.m., while patrolling the 600 block of S. Shamrock officers made contact with a subject known to have outstanding warrants. A computer search confirmed the warrants. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
August 15 at 8:36 p.m., an officer patrolling the area of Mayflower and Chestnut saw a motorist commit a vehicle code violation and conducted a traffic stop. Officers contacted the driver and noticed he displayed symptoms of intoxication. A DUI investigation revealed the driver was under the influence. The driver was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Missing Person
August 16 at 8:42 p.m., a resident walked into the MPD lobby to report her adult daughter missing. She was entered into the system as missing. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
August 16 at 10:34 a.m., a caller in the 200 block of W. Huntington reported the tailgate of his vehicle stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
August 16 at 10:57 a.m., a business in the 3300 block of S. Peck reported that they were notified that a vehicle that was towed to their lot was actually stolen. The vehicle was recovered and the registered owner was notified. The vehicle was stored and removed from the stolen vehicle system. This investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft
August 16 at 1:04 p.m., a victim walked into the MPD lobby to report her wallet stolen. She forgot her purse in a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington, when she returned to pick up her purse she noticed her wallet was gone. This investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
August 16 at 9:06 p.m., officers working a DUI checkpoint in the 1800 block of S. Myrtle observed a driver passing through who displayed symptoms of intoxication. A DUI investigation determined the driver was under the influence. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Vehicle Burglary / Curfew – Suspect Arrested
August 16 at 11:22 p.m., a caller in the 100 block of W. Walnut reported a subject broke a window to a parked car and fled. Officers arrived and located a group of juveniles. The group fled on foot when they saw the officers. One of the juveniles was located a short distance away. An investigation revealed that the suspect broke a window, ripped off the ignition cylinder, and tried to steal the car before being interrupted by the witness. The juvenile that was caught was not the suspect who caused the damage, however he was in violation of curfew. He was arrested and taken into custody to be released with a citation to his parent. This investigation is continuing.

Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
August 16 at 11:49 p.m., a passerby in the 400 block of W. Huntington reported a male subject was passed out on the sidewalk. Officers arrived and located the male subject who was found to be so intoxicated that he was unable to care for himself. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Fraud
August 17 at 11:18 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of N. Encinitas called to report he was a victim of fraud. An unknown subject called him pretending to be a phone company employee stating that he won a free phone and all he had to pay was the shipping fee. The resident paid for shipping the phone and never received the phone. This investigation is continuing.

Hit and Run Traffic Collision
August 17 at 12:22 p.m., a caller in the 100 block of W. Foothill reported that he was involved in a traffic collision in the parking lot of a business. As he was retrieving his insurance from inside of the vehicle the other driver fled. This investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
August 17 at 8:13 p.m., a victim walked into the MPD lobby to report a domestic violence incident. The victim reported that she was battered at home by her boyfriend. While speaking with the victim the suspect called and spoke to officers. The suspect agreed to meet with officers in front of his residence. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
August 17 at 11:48 p.m., officers were patrolling the area of Myrtle and Huntington when they saw a motorist commit a violation. The motorist was pulled over and officers noticed he displayed symptoms of intoxication. A DUI investigation revealed the driver was under the influence. The driver was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
August 17 at 11:49 p.m., a passerby in the area of Mountain and Evergreen reported a solo vehicle collision. Officers arrived and made contact with the driver who was determined to be a juvenile and displaying symptoms of intoxication. A DUI investigation revealed the driver was under the influence. The driver was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Traffic Collision
August 18 at 3:29 a.m., officers responded to the 500 block of E. Olive regarding a vehicle collision. Officers arrived and determined a vehicle hit a parked vehicle and rolled over. The driver reportedly fell asleep while driving and collided with two parked vehicles.

Intoxication / Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
August 18 at 6:36 a.m., a resident in the 1800 block of 9th reported a subject knocked on his front door and went into his backyard. The resident told him to leave but he refused. Officers arrived and located the subject. The subject displayed symptoms of being intoxicated. An investigation determined the subject was too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
August 18 at 7:48 p.m., officers were dispatched to a shopping center in the 100 block of W. Foothill regarding a motorist driving erratically. Officers arrived and located the vehicle driving erratically. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was contacted. The driver displayed symptoms of being under the influence. A DUI investigation revealed the driver was under the influence. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
August 18 at 9:25 p.m., while investigation a shoplifting incident in the 1600 block of S. Mountain, an officer was alerted of another shoplifting in progress. The officer was able to located the suspect and detain them. The suspect experienced a need for medical attention and was transported to a medical facility for treatment. This investigation is continuing.

Missing Person
August 19 at 2:24 p.m., a resident in the 2700 block of S. Peck reported her son missing. This investigation is continuing.

Missing Person
August 19 at 3:08 p.m., a caller in the 200 block of E. Maple reported her sister missing. This investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
August 19 at 3:12 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 900 block of E. Huntington. The driver at fault was transported to the hospital for a complaint of pain.

Battery on Peace Officer
August 19 at 3:47 p.m., a passersby in the 1600 block of S. Myrtle reported a subject laying in the bushes and passed out. Officers and MFD responded and made contact with the subject. The subject was awake but having difficulty responding to questions. The subject attempted to hit a firefighter. He later hit an officer in the face. He was transported to the hospital for treatment.

Vandalism
August 19 at 8:20 p.m., a caller in the area of Huntington and Myrtle reported a vehicle vandalism. Officers arrived and detained a suspect who was identified by the victim. The suspect was also found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia and a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Vandalism
August 19 at 9:29 p.m., a victim in the 400 block of S. Myrtle reported the tired of her vehicle were slashed. This investigation is continuing.

Attempt Grand Theft Auto / Felony Evading – Suspects Arrested
August 20 at 2:57 a.m., a witness in the area of Mayflower and Diamond reported four male subjects were attempting to steal a vehicle. Officers arrived and the suspects fled on foot to a parked car. Officers attempted a traffic stop, but the driver refused to stop and a pursuit ensued. The pursuit came to a stop in a nearby city after the suspects crashed into a wall. All four suspects fled on foot. Two suspects were located. They were arrested and taken into custody.

Trespass Arrest – Suspect Arrested
August 20 at 8:00 p.m., an employee from a hotel in the 1100 block of E. Huntington reported a trespassing. Officers arrived and located a male adult subject who had entered a room unlawfully. The owner completed a private person's arrest. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Evading
August 21 at 3:22 a.m., an officer patrolling the area of Walnut and Myrtle saw a vehicle who was in violation of several vehicle codes. The officer attempted a traffic stop, but the driver refused to stop and a short pursuit ensued. The pursuit was terminated. This investigation is continuing.

Suspicious Circumstances
August 21 at 4:53 p.m., an employee from a storage facility in the 100 block of E. Lime reported locating a box of mail belonging to multiple individuals in a storage unit. This investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
August 21 at 7:30 p.m., a caller in the area of Shamrock and Fig reported a male adult riding a bicycle fell into bushes. Officers arrived and determined the male adult was too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Monrovian Gustavo Menezes Named Outstanding Professor at Cal State LA

Monrovian Gustavo Menezes, a professor of civil engineering in the College of Engineering, Computer Science, and Technology (ECST) at Cal State LA, was recognized for excellence in teaching and outstanding achievements during University Convocation 2024.

Menezes, who also serves as chair of the Department of Civil Engineering, was presented an Outstanding Professor Award on Aug. 19 for his achievements in scholarly inquiry or creativity, as well as professional activities and community service.

Menezes’ research has focused on subsurface water quality and availability. He is interested in investigating the physicochemical processes related to water infiltration through the vadose zone using lab experiments and computer models. His research uses the steady-state centrifugation method to simulate and investigate flow conditions in unsaturated soils.

Most recently, Menezes has worked with a group of faculty members on a National Science Foundation-funded curriculum for sophomores, a service-learning summer bridge program for rising sophomores, and the First Year Experience @ ECST, which focuses on supporting students throughout their first year at the college.

Currently, he leads a team of faculty working on the NSF-funded Eco-STEM project that focuses on “Transforming STEM Education using an Asset-Based Ecosystem Model.” The goal of the project is to create a supportive and culturally responsive learning and working environment for all members of the ECST community.

Since 2009, Menezes has taught courses in environmental engineering and water resources at Cal State LA. He has published his research in peer-reviewed journals and presented at numerous state, national, and international conferences.

Born in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, Menezes received his Ph.D. in infrastructures and environmental systems from the University of North Carolina, Charlotte. He resides in the city of Monrovia.

Source: Cal State LA press release

- Brad Haugaard

A Moment in Monrovia History: Meat and Potatoes - 25 Cents

Monrovia Restaurant around 1887. Map drawn on back shows on NE side of Orange (Colorado) from Myrtle -- Bank, Seymore Grocery, Joseph Jubile's Pool Hall, John Isaac Wesley Fisher's Blacksmith Shop (at 109 E. Orange), vacant, Central House (rooming house run by the McAlonan family). If the small boy in the front row on the bottom step at right is Julian Fisher, that may indicate the date to be around 1905. From the Myron Hotchkiss collection. See full details here.

For more historic photos and papers, see the Monrovia Historical Society’s complete Legacy Project collection here. Learn more about the Monrovia Historical Society here.

- Brad Haugaard

Baylie the Boxer - a Spry 13 Years Old, and Gentle

Baylie thinks that age is just a number, and we couldn’t agree more! This darling boxer may be 13, but she acts (and feels) much younger!

This spry thing loves going for walks and will even run alongside you if you let her. She is always calm and quiet and makes fast friends with everyone who stops to say hello.

Baylie has lived with other animals - she is cat-friendly and has also shared space with rabbits and birds- she's been very gentle with everyone she’s met.

Baylie has been described as very demure and very mindful. She thinks that she’s not like other senior dogs and can literally run circles around them. Come meet this demure diva today!

Baylie and all other pets over 5 years old can be adopted at no charge for anyone over the age of 60, thanks to Pasadena Humane’s Seniors for Seniors program!

The adoption fee for dogs is $150. All dog adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.

Walk-in adoptions are available every day from 2:00 – 5:00. For those who prefer, adoption appointments are available daily from 10:30 – 1:30, and can be scheduled online. View photos of adoptable pets at pasadenahumane.org.

New adopters will receive a complimentary health-and-wellness exam from VCA Animal Hospitals, as well as a goody bag filled with information about how to care for your pet. Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email.

- Brad Haugaard

Sensory-Friendly Morning for Neurodivergent Children, August 24

Sensory-Friendly Morning for Neurodivergent Children at the Library on Saturday, August 24 from 10 to 11 a.m. For children ages 2-15 with sensory processing challenges, autism spectrum disorder, or ADHD. Includes book check-outs, sensory toys, and art supplies. Register here. Contact Cynthia Eschenfelder at 256-8274 for more information.

- Brad Haugaard

Barks and Books - Read to a Dog, Tomorrow at Library

 Barks and Books at the Library on Tuesday, August 20 from 4 to 4:45 p.m. Children ages 6-11 can read to therapy dogs in the Story Room. Program aims to boost reading confidence in a relaxed environment. Sessions are 10 minutes long. Register here. Contact Allison Simpson at 256-8269 for details.

- Brad Haugaard

Nintendo Switch for Adults Friday, August 23

Nintendo Switch Freeplay for Adults program at the Library on Friday, August 23 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Adults 18 and older can enjoy social gaming on Nintendo Switch consoles in the Community Room. Contact Angel Loera at 256-8274 or aloera@ci.monrovia.ca.us for more information.

- Brad Haugaard

Gala Planned to Support Children’s Hospital LA

The Monrovia Guild for Children's Hospital LA will host a "Denim and Diamonds" fundraiser on Saturday, September 14, from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Monrovia Historical Museum. The event, supporting pediatric research in ophthalmology and pulmonary infant healthcare, will feature live music by the R & J Band, entertainment by Theatre Americana, a no-host bar, raffles, and dinner by Jake's Roadhouse. Tickets are $75 per person. Purchase tickets or donate here.  For more information, contact Sandra Macis at sandrammacis@gmail.com.

- Brad Haugaard 

Crudgington Station to Be Visitor Center

Crudgington Station, the small building just inside the Cloverleaf entry point to the Wilderness Preserve, is being refurbished as a visitor center, according to rangers I have talked to. The porch outside has been given planters with native plants, and a bench has been added. Tipsy the cat (named, I was told, from the white tip of her otherwise black tail, not from over-indulging in alcoholic beverages) has worked on mouse-control at the station for years and has now been adopted by a friend of one of the rangers. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Earthquake Alerts And Workshop

The recent earthquake Monrovia experienced was a reminder to be prepared. Here are a few earthquake prep suggestions.

There will be an earthquake preparedness workshop on Sept. 14. Details here. 

Also, both Android phones and iPhones have free earthquake notification systems that can often let you know a few seconds in advance of a quake, according to City Manager Dylan Feik. Here are the details.

Android

Android phones have a built in quake notification system.

• Open Settings
• Tap Safety & emergency > Earthquake alerts
• Toggle Earthquake alerts on (or off) 

Or, you can install the MyShake app from Google Play. (See instructions for iPhone version.)

iPhone

• Download the free MyShake app from the App Store
• Open the app and set the HomeBase area (Monrovia)

You should be prompted to set your location services to "Always On" so the app can notify you even if the app is inactive.

To hear what the alert sounds like, go to Settings and click "Play the Alert Sound."

By default, neither app will notify you of quakes of a magnitude lower than 4.5, and both will limit their reports to quakes likely to shake your location.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Woman Arrested Twice for Burglarizing Same House, Twice More for Trespassing; Loitering in the Middle of Huntington Drive; Peeing in Public; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for August 8 – 14. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 496 service events, resulting in 86 investigations. 

Residential Burglary – Suspect Arrested
August 8 at 7:19 a.m., officers responded to the 200 block of E. Pomona regarding a residential burglary in progress. They made contact with a female subject inside the residence. A computer search revealed she had been arrested earlier that week for burglarizing the same residence. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Drug Activity – Suspect Arrested
August 8 at 9:30 a.m., an officer patrolling the 200 block of E. Chestnut observed a male subject on a scooter commit a traffic violation. A traffic stop was conducted, and a search revealed the subject was in possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arrested, cited, and released at the scene.

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
August 8 at 7:40 p.m., a caller in the 200 block of E. Pomona reported a female subject trespassing. Officers arrived and made contact with the female subject, who had already been arrested twice for trespassing at the same residence. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
August 8 at 11:56 p.m., officers were patrolling the 200 block of W. Huntington when they observed a motorist commit a vehicle code violation. A traffic stop was conducted, and the driver displayed symptoms of intoxication. A DUI investigation confirmed the driver was under the influence. The driver was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Fraud
August 9 at 1:21 p.m., an employee from a business in the 1400 block of S. Mountain reported that a customer used another person’s identifying information to purchase a vehicle. This investigation is continuing.

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
August 9 at 6:35 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of E. Pomona called to report a female subject trespassing at his neighbor's home. The same subject had been arrested for breaking into the home earlier in the week and for trespassing earlier the same day. Officers arrived, made contact with the female subject, and she was arrested and taken into custody.

Grand Theft
August 9 at 10:46 p.m., officers responded to the area of Myrtle and Olive regarding the theft of a purse from a vehicle. This investigation is continuing.

Municipal Code Violations – Suspects Arrested
August 10 at 1:48 a.m., a caller in the 700 block of Walnut Court reported suspicious subjects in the area. Officers arrived and made contact with two juveniles who were in violation of the city's curfew. They were both arrested and released to the care of their parents with citations.

Petty Theft
August 10 at 9:39 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of N. Canyon reported his tricycle stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Fraud
August 10 at 2:50 p.m., a victim walked into the MPD lobby to report fraudulent charges on his account. This investigation is continuing.

Fraud
August 10 at 7:02 p.m., a homeowner reported unknown subjects were entering his vacant property in the 200 block of E. Evergreen. The property had been fraudulently listed for rent by an unknown subject. This investigation is continuing.

Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
August 11 at 12:56 a.m., while patrolling the 600 block of S. Myrtle, officers observed a subject loitering near the entrance of a closed restaurant. Officers made contact with the subject, who was heavily intoxicated. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Robbery – Suspects Arrested
August 11 at 3:27 a.m., officers responded to the area of Prospect and Grand regarding unknown trouble. They made contact with a victim of a robbery. A perimeter was established, and four suspects were located nearby. The suspects were arrested and taken into custody.

Critical Missing Adult
August 11 at 3:58 p.m., a staff member at a senior living facility in the 100 block of S. Myrtle reported a male subject left and had not returned. Surrounding agencies and the bus system were notified. This investigation is continuing.

Fraud
August 12 at 4:16 p.m., a victim walked into the MPD lobby to report fraud. The victim reported receiving a random text message from the suspect earlier in the year, and they developed a friendship over the phone. After several months, the victim was convinced by the suspect to make cryptocurrency investments online. The victim eventually discovered she had been scammed when she did not have access to the cryptocurrency she purchased. This investigation is continuing.

Mental Evaluation
August 12 at 10:17 p.m., an employee from a gas station in the 700 block of E. Huntington reported a male adult standing in the middle of Huntington Drive. Officers arrived and located the subject, who would have been struck by a vehicle if officers had not arrived and intervened. Officers determined he was a danger to himself. He was transported to a medical facility for a mental evaluation.

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
August 13 at 11:02 a.m., an officer patrolling the area of Magnolia and Pomona saw a male subject commit a bicycle violation. He conducted a traffic stop and made contact with the subject. A computer search revealed he had warrants for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Shoplifting
August 13 at 7:33 p.m., an employee from a store in the 500 block of W. Huntington reported a male subject fled the store with merchandise without paying. Officers arrived and were unable to locate the subject. This investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting
August 13 at 8:20 p.m., a theft was reported at a store in the 500 block of W. Huntington. Officers arrived and were unable to locate the subject. This investigation is continuing.

Urinating in Public – Suspect Arrested
August 13 at 10:34 p.m., a resident in the 100 block of S. Madison reported a male subject urinating in public at a coffee shop. Officers arrived and located the suspect. The caller identified him and placed him under private person’s arrest. The subject was arrested, cited, and released at the scene.

Burglary
August 14 at 6:39 a.m., a caller iEtc.n the 400 block of W. Foothill reported that several businesses in the area had their front windows shattered. Officers arrived and found three businesses had been burglarized overnight. This investigation is continuing.

Dinner at Lin’s Club

Dinner at Lin’s Club, a little Chinese restaurant on the east side of the shopping center at Duarte Road and Sixth Avenue. Skipped over the Hot and Spicy Live Bullfrog and ordered the Hot and Spicy Beef for $15.99 and a Diet Pepsi for $2. And due to communication difficulties I also got the Hot and Spicy Fish Fillet.  Both very tasty and I barely dented either of them. Plenty to take home.

- Brad Haugaard 

Pedro Pascal - Friend to All, Fan of Birds on TV

Pedro Pascal is six years old and mostly responds to just “Pascal”, because he’s one of those cool cats who goes by their last name.

He likes following his favorite people around to supervise their activities, lounging on the floor, leaving his pawtograph on cardboard cat scratchers, and watching TV (usually any programs with birds).

Just like the real Pedro Pascal, this Pedro is a friend to all – he’s great with adults and children and doesn’t even mind being picked up!

Pedro is FIV-positive, but that doesn’t preclude him from living with other cats. Cats contract FIV through deep bite wounds or from the milk of their FIV-positive mother, so when kitties are living in harmony and everyone is spayed and neutered, the risk of transmission is very low.

In addition, although FIV-positive cats have a lowered immune system that make them more susceptible to infections, they can live long, happy lives when kept healthy through regular veterinary visits. So don’t let that stop you from meeting this sweet guy!

Come to Pasadena Humane on Saturday, August 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Clear the Shelters! Adoption fees are waived for all available dogs, cats and critters.

The adoption fee for cats is $100. All cat adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.

Walk-in adoptions are available every day from 2:00 – 5:00. For those who prefer, adoption appointments are available daily from 10:30 – 1:30, and can be scheduled online. View photos of adoptable pets at pasadenahumane.org.

New adopters will receive a complimentary health-and-wellness exam from VCA Animal Hospitals, as well as a goody bag filled with information about how to care for your pet.

Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email.

- Brad Haugaard

A Moment in Monrovia History: Monrovia Planing Mill

The Monrovia Planing Mill many years ago at 114 E. Lemon, where the Historic Lighting building is now. A planing mill smooths rough-cut lumber. From the Myron Hotchkiss collection. See full details here.

For more historic photos and papers, see the Monrovia Historical Society’s complete Legacy Project collection here. Learn more about the Monrovia Historical Society here.

- Brad Haugaard

4.4 Earthquake Felt Today in Monrovia

The earthquake felt in Monrovia at 12:20 p.m. today (Monday) was a 4.4 quake centered 3.4 miles west of Alhambra, according to the US Geological Survey. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Teen Laser Tag at Library Friday, Aug. 16

Laser Tag at the Library. Friday, August 16, 5:30 to 7 p.m. in Community Room. For grades 6-12. Registration required, here. Contact Amanda, Teen Services Librarian, at acarey@monroviaca.gov or 256-8274 for more information.

- Brad Haugaard

School District May Have to Cut Budget If Finances Don't Improve; Elementary Schools Identify Areas to Improve

At its next meeting (agenda here ) the Monrovia Board of Education will consider ...

 ~ A resolution saying that if the district's finances don't improve, that the school board will cut $3.82 million from its budget for fiscal year 2025-26, and $6.2 million for 2026-27.  Details. 

~ Approving changes to the district's School Plan for Student Achievement for  elementary schools - Bradoaks, Mayflower, Monroe, and Plymouth - which have identified areas in which they need improvement:

Bradoaks: Chronic absenteeism, suspensions, and English language learners performing lower in English and math.

Mayflower: High suspension rate; lower performance in English by English language learners, Hispanic students, socioeconomically disadvantaged students, and students with disabilities; lower math performance for socioeconomically disadvantaged students and students with disabilities.

Monroe: High absenteeism, low performance in math and English.

Plymouth: Chronic absenteeism, low math and English performance, low student engagement and connectedness to the school.

Details. 

- Brad Haugaard

Paragon Sells for $87.25 Million

The Paragon apartment complex at the corner of Myrtle and Olive just sold for $87.25 million, or more than $500,000 per unit. The buyer is SCS Development Company, Inc. Details.

- Brad Haugaard 

Hazardous Waste and Electronic Collections in August

Household hazardous and electronic waste collection events in August:

• Rear parking lot for Morgan Park (4100 Baldwin Park Blvd.) in Baldwin Park on August 10, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Santa Anita Race Track, Gate 6, in Arcadia on August 17, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Earthquake Preparedness Workshop Sept. 14

Earthquake preparedness workshop on September 14, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Library Community Room. Free event hosted by Monrovia Historic Preservation Group and Fire Department. Limited to 60 attendees. Guest speaker: Margaret Vinci from Caltech. Light refreshments provided. RSVP here.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Needs Residents to Oversee City's Use of Measure K Tax Money

The city is seeking residents to serve on the five-member Measure K Citizen Advisory Committee, which monitors revenues and expenditures from the city's 0.75% sales tax. Four-year volunteer term. Meets annually to review reports, comment on spending plans. Contact a City Council member here for information or to express interest.

- Brad Haugaard

Youth and Adult Leadership Academies Begin Sept. 4 and 5

Youth and Adult Leadership academies begin on September 4 and 5. Seven-week programs focus on city government, leadership skills, community connections. Youth sessions are on Wednesdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m. starting September 4. Adult sessions Thursdays 7 to 9 p.m. starting September 5. Open to all residents. Register here.

- Brad Haugaard

Police Sponsoring 'Citizens Academy' Starting Sept. 4

An eight-week Monrovia Police Citizens Academy course that provides interactive overview of Police Department starts Sept. 4. Free for residents, workers, or college students in city. Must be 18+, have clean criminal background. Wednesday sessions from 6 to 8 p.m. Contact Officer Holguin at 256-8014 for information and application.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Thieves Take Three Pickup Tailgates; Man and Woman Pretend to Be Undercover Cops; Shoplifting; Alcohol and Drugs; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for August 1 – 7. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 422 service events, resulting in 77 investigations.

Grand Theft
August 1 at 11:42 a.m., a caller in the 1600 block of S. Mountain called to reported tools stolen from his vehicle. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto Recovery
August 1 at 2:33 p.m., an employee from a business in the 3300 block of S. Peck reported a stolen vehicle. Officers arrived, the vehicle was recovered and removed from the stolen vehicle system. This investigation is continuing.

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
August 1 at 4:02 p.m., an officer patrolling the area of Huntington and Encino conducted a traffic stop on a bicyclist for a violation. A computer check revealed the bicyclist had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Fraud
August 1 at 7:32 p.m., a victim in the 300 block of W. Lime called to report an unknown subject opened a bank account using his information without his permission. This investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting / Warrants – Suspect Arrested
August 1 at 10:14 p.m., employees from a store in the 1600 block of S. Mountain reported that a male and female subject stole merchandise and left without paying. Officers arrived, located the subjects nearby and made contact with them. The male subject was arrested, cited, and released at the scene. A computer search revealed the female subject had a warrant for her arrest. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Drug Activity – Suspects Arrested
August 2 at 7:11 a.m., officers were dispatched to a parking structure in the 100 block of W. Colorado regarding three subjects in a vehicle possibly using drugs. Officers arrived, located the vehicle, and made contact with the subjects. A computer check revealed all three subjects had warrants for their arrest. They were arrested and taken into custody.

Petty Theft
August 2 at 9:55 p.m., an employee from a store in the 900 block of W. Duarte reported a male adult subject stole merchandise and fled without paying. Officers arrived but were unable to locate the subject. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
August 3 at 5:31 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of E. Pomona reported their vehicle stolen. Officers searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle. The vehicle was entered into the DMV Stolen Vehicle System. This investigation is continuing.

Grant Theft
August 3 at 7:06 a.m., an officer responded to the 100 block of N. 5th Ave regarding a theft report. The victim stated he parked his vehicle on the street the night before. When he returned to his vehicle in the morning, he noticed the tailgate was missing. This investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
August 3 at 7:11 a.m., officers responded to an injury traffic collision in the area of Mayflower and Foothill. One of the parties involved was transported to a hospital for treatment.

Grand Theft
August 3 at 8:26 a.m., a caller in the 600 block of S. Primrose reported their vehicle’s tailgate stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
August 3 at 10:38 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of N. Alta Vista reported the tailgate of their vehicle stolen. This investigation is counting.

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
August 3 at 10:52 a.m., an employee from a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain called to report a female subject put merchandise in her backpack and left the business without paying. Officers arrived and located the female subject outside the business. A computer search revealed she had several warrants for her arrest. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
August 3 at 4:37 p.m., a caller in the 1600 block of S. Mountain reported two subjects approached him and began to yell at him. Officers arrived and made contact with the two subjects. It was determined that one of the subject’s was intoxicated. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Trespassing
August 3 at 7:04 p.m., an employee of a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington reported a female subject inside the store causing a disturbance. Officers arrived and located the subject. The store signed a no trespassing authorization against the subject and she left the store.

Trespassing
August 4 at 12:22 a.m., a security company for a complex in the 1400 block of S. California reported two suspicious male subjects walking around the parking lot. After officers arrived and surrounded the complex the security company informed MPD that the subjects had left approximately 10 minutes prior to them calling MPD. No subjects were located. This investigation is counting.

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
August 4 at 12:07 p.m., while patrolling the area of Magnolia and Montana an officer saw a bicyclist commit a traffic violation. A traffic stop was conducted and the bicyclist was contacted. A computer search revealed the bicyclist had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Prowling – Suspect Arrested
August 4 at 4:53 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 2600 block of S. Myrtle regarding a subject looking into closed businesses. An officer arrived and located the subject looking into a car window. The officer made contact with the subject. A computer search revealed the subject is on parole for burglary. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Drunk in Public – Suspect Arrested
August 4 at 4:59 p.m., a caller in the 300 block of W. Huntington reported a disturbing subject. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject. The subject was extremely intoxicated and unable to care for himself. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
August 4 at 5:13 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 1600 block of S. Mountain regarding a suspicious subject. Officers arrived and contacted the subject. A computer check revealed he had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Burglary / Vandalism – Suspect Arrested
August 4 at 7:49 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of E. Pomona reported a female had just forced entry into an empty home. Officers arrived and located the suspect outside the home walking away with property. Earlier in the day she had vandalized the interior walls of the home. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Impersonating MPD Officers – Suspects Arrested
August 5 at 12:44 a.m., a caller in the 600 block of S. Myrtle reported that he was stopped by a male and female driving a plain car with red and blue police lights on its windshield. The two suspects identified themselves as undercover MPD officers and left after making contact with him. Officers located the suspects in the area. They were found to be in possession of a controlled substance. They were arrested and taken into custody.

Grand Theft Auto
August 5 at 8:09 a.m., a customer at a retail store in the 1600 block of S. Mountain called to report that his vehicle was stolen from a parking lot. This investigation is counting.

Grand Theft Auto Recovery
August 5 at 2:42 p.m., officers were alerted to a stolen vehicle in the area of Myrtle and Central. Officers arrived and located the vehicle parked a short distance away. This investigation is counting.

Driving Under the Influence / Non-Injury Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
August 5 at 7:45 p.m., callers in the area of Huntington and Primrose reported a two vehicle traffic collision. Officers arrived and found no one was injured, however, one of the drivers was found to be under the influence. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Warrants – Suspect Arrested
August 5 at 11:14 p.m., an officer was patrolling the 1600 block of S. Myrtle when he saw a subject in the park after hours, in violation of a municipal code. The officer made contact with the subject. A computer check revealed he had warrants for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Medical Assist
August 6 at 1:42 p.m., Officers were dispatched to the 100 block of W. Palm regarding a medical assist call. A female subject slipped and fallen in her home and hurt herself. She was evaluation by MFD and transported to a hospital for treatment.

Burglary
August 7 at 8:17 a.m., an employee at a restaurant in the 700 block of E. Huntington called to report that the restaurant looked like it had been burglarized overnight. Officers arrived and determined that unknown suspect(s) broken in through the drive-through window and stole money. This investigation is counting.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
August 7 at 7:41 p.m., an employee of a store in the 500 block of W. Huntington reported a suspicious person in their store. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject. A computer check revealed he had a warrant. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Grand Theft Auto – Suspect Arrested
August 7 at 8:27 p.m., a resident in the 500 block of Terrado reported his son, who has an active restraining order, took her vehicle. Officers attempted to locate the suspect, but were not successful. The vehicle was entered into the DMV Stolen Vehicle System. A few hours later Arcadia Police stopped the vehicle and suspect in their city. MPD officers responded and arrested the suspect. The vehicle was returned to the owner.

Dinner at the Pour House

Dinner at the Pour House, on the west side of Myrtle, just south of Lemon. Got the Classic Cheeseburger for $14.42 and a beer for the happy hour price of $5.34. Good, basic food. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Chill Dog Rocky Has That Laid-Back Vibe

Rocky is a perfect addition to any home that is seeking a chill companion with lots of love! He’s an eight-year-old German Shepherd with an easy going, laid-back vibe. He’s stunningly handsome and smart as well!

Rocky has been spending time with one of the Pasadena Humane foster families, and they have wonderful things to report. They say he is very low maintenance and prefers to sleep throughout the day. He loves car rides, loves to stick his head out the window, and is very well-behaved in public. He can be taken anywhere, and he’s received countless compliments from strangers. 

Rocky is house-trained and knows basic cues. He sits well and has learned to lie down on command. He even walks right by your 

If you’re looking for a lower-energy buddy to relax in the shade with, come meet Rocky today!

Rocky and all other dogs, cats and critters can be adopted at no charge during Pasadena Humane’s Clear the Shelters adoption event, happening Saturday, August 17th from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. 

The adoption fee for dogs is $150. All dog adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines. 

Walk-in adoptions are available every day from 2:00 – 5:00. For those who prefer, adoption appointments are available daily from 10:30 – 1:30, and can be scheduled online. View photos of adoptable pets at pasadenahumane.org.

New adopters will receive a complimentary health-and-wellness exam from VCA Animal Hospitals, as well as a goody bag filled with information about how to care for your pet. 

Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email. 

A Moment in Monrovia History: The Monrovia Motor Lodge

A post card showing the Monrovia Motor Lodge, at 715 E Huntington, around where Aldi and Home Goods is now, just east of Shamrock. From the Kim Anderson collection. See full details here.

For more historic photos and papers, see the Monrovia Historical Society’s complete Legacy Project collection here. Learn more about the Monrovia Historical Society here.

- Brad Haugaard

Tabletop Game Night for Adults at Library, Friday, Aug. 9

Tabletop Game Night for Adults at Library Community Room. Friday, August 9, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Play new games from extensive collection. Meet new people. Ages 18+. Contact Angel Loera at 256-8254 or aloera@ci.monrovia.ca.us for information.

- Brad Haugaard

One More Summer Concert

The country band, 33 Thunder, (very good) performed tonight at the Library Park bandshell. Just one more performance for the summer concert series. Next Sunday at 7 p.m. in Library Park, the Regae band, Upstream.

- Brad Haugaard