Trail touch up complete in Wilderness Preserve

David Campbell rides the switchbacks below Sunset Bench. 

The city contractor has finished grading and taming the trails in the Hillside Wilderness Preserve. The switchbacks below Sunset Bench in particular have been well worked. Many of the steps at the hairpin corners have been removed and the corners smoothed and widened. Because of the grading the ground is still quite soft, especially near the edges.

- Brad Haugaard 

Teen Game Hangout April 18 at Library

Teen Game Hangout Friday, April 18, from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Library. Teens in grades 6-12 can hangout, eat snacks, play Nintendo Switch games, Beyblades, and board games. No registration is needed; drop-ins are welcome.

- Brad Haugaard

Veterans Meetup April 22 - free coffee!

Monthly Veterans Meetup, Tuesday, April 22, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Magnolia/Huntington Starbucks. Connect and share stories with free coffee on the fourth Tuesday of each month.

- Brad Haugaard

Beginner vocal class at Library April 19

Beginner Vocal Class for Adults and Teens 16+ Saturday, April 19, from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Library. The introductory lesson will cover easy voice exercises and simple songs. Registration required, here. 

- Brad Haugaard

Children read to therapy dogs, April 15

Barks and Books lets children 6 to 11 read to therapy dogs to boost their reading confidence. Tuesday, April 15, from 4 to 5 p.m. at the Library. Registration required, one seat remaining. See here.

- Brad Haugaard

Garden Tales at the Huntington - told at next Garden Club meeting

At its next meeting the Monrovia Garden Club will hear Sandy Masuo present “Rooted in History: Garden Tales at the Huntington,” a program on horticultural history and plant lore. The meeting will be at 7 p.m., Tuesday, April 22, at 6:30 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, at the corner of Myrtle and Foothill. Contact martharund@gmail.com for details.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Reads to honor John Wilson at fundraiser

Monrovia Reads' annual literacy fundraiser, this year honoring John Wilson, will take place May 8 at the Doubletree, 924 W Huntington. Wilson will receive the Literacy Legacy Award. Tickets are $75 and include dinner and auctions. RSVP at soallmayread@monroviareads.org or purchase tickets here.

- Brad Haugaard

Artist reception, free food and music, April 25

The Monrovia Association of Fine Arts will host a free artist reception on Friday, April 25 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Community Center, featuring new artwork, live music, and refreshments provided by Rivans Baking Company and Wine of the Month Club. All ages welcome. No RSVP required.

- Brad Haugaard

Historical Museum debuts 'Monrovia’s History Through Architecture'

The Monrovia Historical Museum will debut "Monrovia’s History Through Architecture" on Sunday, May 4, coinciding with the 41st Annual MOHPG Historic Home Tour. Tickets for the tour are available at Charlie’s House, the MOHPG website, or the Museum on the day of the event. Museum admission is free.

- Brad Haugaard

Container gardening workshop at Community Garden South

There will be a workshop April 19 on container gardening, and a tree raffle, at Monrovia Community Garden South, 1650 S. Magnolia. Dwarf fruit trees raffled at 10:15 and 11:15 a.m.; winners must be present. Recommended parking at 168 W. Pomona. Contact info@monroviacommunitygarden.org for details.

- Brad Haugaard

Farmers Market now has food scrap collection point

The Saturday Farmers Market at Station Square now has a drop-off point for food scraps. Bring them from 8 a.m. to noon and learn how to compost, play an educational sorting game, and receive compost.

- Brad Haugaard

City adds web page to help people build ADUs

The city's Community Development Department has launched a web page to help residents who want to build an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit). The page covers permitting, common questions, and has pre-approved, code-compliant designs, plus information for architects and designers.  Here is the page. 

- Brad Haugaard

Council to consider: Campaign contribution limits; Evaluating Cypress property for affordable housing; Hiring company to build out Tsuneishi Park

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

~ Limiting campaign contributions to candidates for city offices to either $500 or $1,000 per election, whichever limit the Council decides. The limit does not apply to personal funds a candidate wants to contribute to his or her own campaign. Details. 

~ Participating in the San Gabriel Valley Council of Government's  Affordable Housing Incubator Program to analyze the feasibility of having affordable housing at the newly acquired city-owned property at 222 East Cypress Ave. while preserving the existing 1892 Victorian home. Details.

~ Hire RG General Engineering, Inc. for $838,042, plus a contingency amount of$83,800, to build out the new Satoru Tsuneishi Park, on Huntington just south of the Chick-fil-A. Also, the city will consider hiring Merrell Johnson Engineering, Inc. for $83,655 to manage the project. Details. 

- Brad Haugaard

School district to consider hiring firm to study options for fixing aquatics facility at Monrovia High; Etc.

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

 ~ A deal with Little Diversified Architectural Consulting for up to $18,000 to study options to replace the aquatics facility at Monrovia High. Details. 

 ~ Hiring CL Consulting for $18,925 to figure out if the district is eligible for state funds to fix up its facilities. Details.

~ Having Boys and Girls Club of the Foothills provide a summer program for Monrovia school students for $1,800 per student. Details. 

~ A contract with the LA County Office of Education to enable the district to participate in the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative, which will pay Monrovia Schools up to $486,863.10 for wellbeing and support services for district students.  Details. 

~ A partnership with Managed Career Solutions to provide workforce development and career services for jobseekers, businesses, and students.  Details. 

~ Recognizing April 20-26 as "Adminstrative Professionals Week" and April 23 as"Adminstrative Professionals Day" (details),  May 5-9 as National Teacher Appreciation Week and May 6 as National Teacher Day (details), and May 7 as National School Nurse Day and May 6-12 as National Nurse Week (details).

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Wallet thief uses distraction; Car overturns, suspect flees; Juvenile with handgun busted; Fake IDs found in traffic stop; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for April 3 – 9. - Brad Haugaard]

During this period the Police Department handled 400 service events, resulting in 74 investigations.

Grand Theft
April 3 at 2:58 p.m., a victim walked into the MPD lobby to report that she was in a parking lot in the 300 block of W. Huntington when she was approached by a subject who removed her wallet by directing her attention away from her purse. This investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
April 3 at 6:56 p.m., officers responded to a welfare check in the 300 block of W. Huntington regarding a male subject sleeping on the ground. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject who was determined to be too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
April 3 at 8:17 p.m., a caller in the 300 block of S. Myrtle reported a male and female subject arguing. Officers arrived and made contact with the parties. A computer check revealed the male subject had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Mental Evaluation
April 3 at 11:59 p.m., a subject called MPD to say he wanted to harm himself. The dispatcher was able to calm the subject until officers arrived. Officers arrived and determined he was a danger to himself. He was transported to a medical facility for treatment.

Drug Possession – Suspect Arrested
April 3 at 2:23 a.m., while patrolling the 900 block of W. Huntington, officers made contact with a subject who was in possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arrested, cited and released at the scene.

Hit and Run Traffic Collision
April 4 at 6:36 p.m., a caller in the area of Ivy and Maple reported a vehicle collision were a vehicle overturned. An investigation revealed the suspect fled after the collision. Officers arrived and made contact with the victim who suffered minor injuries. This investigation is continuing.

Vandalism
April 5 at 1:29 a.m., a victim in the 700 block of E. Foothill reported the sunroof to his vehicle was smashed by an unknown subject. This investigation is continuing.

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
April 5 at 3:59 a.m., an officer patrolling the area of Magnolia and Genoa conducted a traffic stop on a bicyclist for a vehicle code violation. A computer search revealed the subject had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Injury Traffic Collision
April 5 at 1:01 p.m., a traffic collision involving a motorcyclist was reported in the 700 block of W. Foothill. The motorcyclist suffered non-life threatening injuries and was transported to a hospital for treatment.

Identity Theft – Suspect Arrested
April 5 at 3:31 p.m., while patrolling the area of Mayflower and Evergreen an officer saw a vehicle commit a traffic violation. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was contacted. An investigation revealed the driver was in possession of counterfeit identifying cards. The driver was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
April 5 at 8:20 p.m., officers patrolling the area of Myrtle and Central saw a vehicle commit multiple vehicle code violations. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was contacted. The driver displayed symptoms of intoxication. A DUI investigation revealed he was under the influence. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Drug Possession – Suspect Arrested
April 5 at 9:35 p.m., while patrolling the area of Huntington and Monterey officers saw a bicyclist in violation of a vehicle code. An investigation revealed the bicyclist was in possession of a controlled substance. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Reckless Driving – Suspect Arrested
April 5 at 9:52 p.m., several callers reported a vehicle driving recklessly in the area of Los Angeles and Ivy. Officers arrived and located the vehicle. The driver was contacted, arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
April 6 at 12:59 a.m., an officer patrolling the area of Huntington and Mountain saw a vehicle commit a vehicle code violation. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was contacted. The driver displayed symptoms of intoxication. 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.

Weapon Offense – Suspects Arrested
April 6 at 1:24 a.m., while patrolling the 1500 block of S. Myrtle an officer saw a vehicle commit a vehicle code violation. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was contacted. A juvenile passenger fled on foot but was apprehended a short distance away. The juvenile was found to be in possession of a loaded handgun. The driver was found to be in possession of alcohol and a controlled substance. They were both arrested and taken into custody.

Grand Theft
April 6 at 11:34 a.m., a resident in the 1300 block of S. Mayflower reported the catalytic converter from his vehicle stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
April 6 at 4:23 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the area of California and Central. Officers responded and made contact with the parties involved. No injuries were reported. This investigation is ongoing.

Vehicle Burglary
April 6 at 6:44 p.m., a victim in the 600 block of W. Huntington reported his vehicle’s window was broken and property taken. This investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
April 7 at 2:05 a.m., a family disturbance was reported in the 500 block of W. Lime. Officers arrived and made contact with a subject outside the location. He displayed symptoms of being intoxicated. It was determined he was unable to care for himself. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Hit and Run Traffic Collision
April 7 at 3:49 a.m., a traffic collision was reported in the area of Longden and Peck. Officers arrived and made contact with the victim. An investigation revealed the suspect fled after the collision. This investigation is continuing.

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
April 7 at 8:08 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 800 block of W. Walnut regarding a dispute. Officers arrived and made contact with the parties involved. A computer check revealed one of the subjects had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Grand Theft
April 7 at 8:23 a.m., a victim in the 700 block of E. Huntington reported her wallet was stolen from the backseat of her vehicle. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
April 7 at 8:41 a.m., a caller in the 500 block of E. Maple reported his vehicle stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
April 7 at 6:39 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the area of Foothill and Primrose. The driver determined to be at fault was issued a citation.

Drug Possession – Suspect Arrested
April 8 at 1:52 a.m., an officer patrolling in the area of Duarte and California saw a bicyclist commit a traffic violation. A traffic stop was conducted and the bicyclist was contacted. An investigation revealed the subject was in possession of a controlled substance. The subject was arrested, cited and released at the scene.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
April 8 at 8:01 a.m., a traffic collision was reported in the area of Foothill and Ivy. Officers arrived and made contact with the parties involved. No injuries were reported. The party found to be at fault was cited.

Injury Traffic Collision
April 8 at 3:14 p.m., an injury traffic collision was reported in the area of California and Central. Both drivers had a complaint of pain and both vehicles had to be towed away. This investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary
April 8 at 4:18 a.m., a burglary alarm was activated at a business in the 3200 block of Peck. Officers arrived and determined the unknown suspect made entry by forcing the front door open. The suspects entered and removed property. This investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence
April 9 at 7:11 a.m., a battery was reported in the 100 block of N. Magnolia. Officers arrived and made contact with the parties involved. An investigation revealed a physical altercation took place. The aggressor was arrested and taken into custody.

Vandalism
April 9 at 10:16 a.m., a caller from a business in the 1700 block of S. Mountain reported seeing a passerby throw an object at a vehicle, causing damage. This investigation is continuing.

Court Order Violation
April 9 at 5:19 p.m., an employee from a business in the 100 block of W. Lime reported a subject loitering nearby was in violation of a court order. Officers arrived and made contact with the parties. A computer search confirmed the court order. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence
April 9 at 7:57 p.m., an officer patrolling the area of Mountain and Lemon saw a vehicle commit a traffic violation. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was contacted. The driver displayed symptoms of being under the influence. She was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Breakfast at JB Burgers

Breakfast at JB Burgers, at the corner of Myrtle and Olive. Got the bacon and eggs special for $9.75 and a large decaf coffee for $3.40. Very good, and you won’t go away hungry.

- Brad Haugaard

Calm and loving Nila looking for quiet and cozy home

Nila is a gentle, wise, and oh-so-sweet senior German Shepherd looking for a loving home to spend her golden years. This 8-year-old sweetheart may have a little grayer on her muzzle, but her heart is as full of love as ever! 

Nila is all about the simple joys in life—soft beds, belly rubs, and leisurely strolls where she can sniff to her heart’s content. She’s got a calm and loving nature, always happy to be by your side, whether it’s for a lazy afternoon nap or just keeping you company while you read or watch TV.

This lovely gal is the definition of a loyal companion. She’ll listen to all your stories, greet you with a happy tail wag, and remind you daily how special senior dogs truly are. She’s looking for a quiet, cozy home where she can be spoiled with love, gentle scratches, and maybe even a few extra treats.  

If you’re searching for a sweet, soulful best friend who will bring warmth and love into your life, Nila is ready to fill that spot. Could you be her perfect match? 

Nila’s age makes her eligible for Pasadena Humane’s Seniors for Seniors Program. Her adoption fee is waived for any adopter over the age of 60! 

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 10:00 – 5:00. 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: Inside the old Library, in 2009

Patrons use the outdated and crowded 1950s-era library in Library Park prior to its replacement with a new, larger and modern facility in 2009. [I liked that old Library - Brad] From the Dick Singer 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

Long Unmarked Graves of Two Extraordinary African American Women to be Marked

Two notable African American Monrovia sisters, whose resting places lie unmarked at Monrovia's Live Oak Memorial Park, will finally be recognized and markers added to their graves.

A program highlighting the lives and legacies of Anna H. Jones and Dr. Sophia B. Jones, will be held on Saturday, May 3 beginning with a program and luncheon at 11 a.m. at Second Baptist Church, 925 S. Shamrock Ave., followed by the dedication of their grave markers at 3 p.m. at Live Oak Memorial Park. The event and luncheon are free and open to the public. Please RSVP by April 25 to (626) 664-6537 or spicerbatice@gmail.com.

These sisters, born in the 1850s, were pioneers in education and medicine, overcoming racial and gender barriers. Yet their stories are barely known here.

Anna was a visionary educator, suffragist, and civil rights leader who made lasting contributions to higher learning in the US. She broke new ground as a teacher at Ohio's Wilberforce University, where she also served as Dean of Women. Later, she became the first African American teacher in Kansas City and then the first African American principal of Douglass School, a public school for African Americans. She founded the Kansas City Colored Women’s League, was a founding member of the National Association of Colored Women’s Clubs, and in 1900 delivered a paper at the first Pan-African Congress in London. Eventually, she settled with her siblings at 1301 S. Shamrock Ave. in Monrovia, had a small orange ranch and continued her fight for social justice by founding the “Anna H. Jones Club,” still going strong, to help local graduates pursue a college education.

Sophia was equally determined but focused on the medical field. Denied admission because of her race to the medical school at the University of Toronto, where she earned an undergraduate degree, she pursued her dream in the U.S., in 1885 becoming the first African American woman to graduate from the University of Michigan Medical School. She became the first Black female faculty member at Spelman College in Atlanta, establishing its nursing program. She went on to teach at Wilberforce University, serve at Frederick Douglass Hospital, and publish influential work on public health. She, too, spent her final years at the family home on South Shamrock. Both operated in the highest circles of elite Black activists. Their close friend W.E.B. Du Bois, co-founder of the NAACP, marked each of their passings in his national magazine, The Crisis.

Their stories underscore perseverance, scholarship, and activism. This gathering will celebrate their achievements and reveal little-known aspects of their roles in shaping higher education and medicine. All are invited to learn more about these extraordinary women and witness the dedication of newly placed grave markers honoring them at Live Oak Memorial Park.

Sponsors: Second Baptist Church, Monrovia ChangeMakers, Monrovia Historical Society, Monrovia Historical Museum, Monrovia Historic Preservation Group, Monrovia Duarte Black Alumni Association, Anna H. Jones Club, Live Oak Cemetery, Randy Montgomery & Valley Monument.

- Brad Haugaard

City Manager to speak on low-income housing at open Kiwanis meeting

City Manager Dylan Feik will discuss the planned low-cost housing development between Colorado and Olive on the first block west of Myrtle at an open-to-the-public Monrovia Kiwanis Club luncheon Thursday, April 10, from noon to 1:30 p.m. at Jake’s Roadhouse, 622 S. Myrtle Ave. Lunch available for purchase.

- Brad Haugaard

Plymouth School first in Monrovia Elementary Olympics

Plymouth Elementary took first place in this year’s Monrovia Elementary Olympics, held March 27 at Monrovia High. Lots of photos here.

- Brad Haugaard

Here's the schedule for Monrovia Days - May 16-18

- Brad Haugaard

Foothill Unity Center distributing free N95 masks for those helping fire cleanup

Free N95 masks are available to help residents affected by January’s wildfires protect against harmful airborne particles during the clean-up period. Foothill Unity Center, in partnership with the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research, Walgreens, and Cedars-Sinai, is distributing masks donated by the latter two. Pickup at 790 W. Chestnut Avenue, Monrovia, Monday and Friday, 9 to 11:30 a.m.

“Prolonged exposure to smoke and particulate matter can have long-term health implications, including an increased risk of developing sarcoidosis,” said Mary McGowan, CEO of FSR. “We are incredibly grateful to Walgreens and Cedars-Sinai for their support and generous contributions.”

- Brad Haugaard

Former Juvo+ office to become medical center

Image from Google Maps.

A medical outpatient facility offering physical, occupational, and speech therapy is planned for the former Juvo+ office at the northwest corner of Foothill and Acacia. The company, Casa Colina Healthcare, operates multiple facilities, mostly in Pomona but also in Azusa and the High Desert. The proposed facility (details here) will be considered by the Planning Commission at its next meeting.  Agenda here. 

- Brad Haugaard

Bubble art for children, April 16 at Library

Spring Bubble Art craft at the Library, Wednesday, April 16, from 3 to 4 p.m. Children 5–12 will paint hydrangeas using bubble art techniques. Held in the Story Room.

- Brad Haugaard 

Free movie for vets - The Amateur

Free movie for veterans at LOOK Cinemas, Saturday, April 12, from 1 to 4 p.m. The film is “The Amateur”. Veterans and service members receive two complimentary tickets with registration.  Register here.

- Brad Haugaard 

STEAM activities for children at Library April 9

Innovation Lab at the Library Story Room on Wednesday, April 9, from 2 to 3 p.m. Hands-on STEAM-related activity for children ages 6–11. No registration required.

- Brad Haugaard 

Concerts being joined by festival; Artists joining street fair

The Summer Concerts at Station Square will be joined by a family festival, including food and family activities for attendees of the weekly concerts, on Sundays, from May 25 through June 29, 4 to 9 p.m.

Also, to give greater exposure to local artists, the Monrovia Association of Fine Arts is re-timing its Summer Art Walks to be on the last Friday of June, July, and August, and right on Myrtle with the street fair.

- Brad Haugaard

Photos with the Easter Bunny and Easter egg hunt

Photos with the Easter Bunny Photos at Library Park on Saturday, April 12, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Also, Library Storytime, arts and crafts, lawn games, and other photo opportunities. For details, contact Community Services at 256-8246.

Also, Easter Egg Hunt & Healthy Kids Day Saturday, April 19 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Recreation Park. Registration begins at 9 a.m.  Call 256-8246 for more information.

- Brad Haugaard

Free compost and mulch for residents, April 12

Free compost and mulch available to residents April 12. The City and Athens Services will provide free compost and mulch for residents on April 12. Self-service only, bring a shovel, dolly, and sturdy container. No plastic bags. Gloves and eye protection recommended. Proof of residency required, either ID or Athens bill with a local address.

- Brad Haugaard

What's new in Monrovia history

Historic Homes Tour.

~ The 41st Historic Homes Tour will showcase vintage homes in a self-guided tour on Sunday, May 4. Hosted by the Monrovia Historic Preservation Group, Ticket details here.

~ A guided historic walking tour will take place Saturday, April 5, at 10 a.m. The Monrovia Historic Preservation Group will lead a two-hour tour of Monrovia history beginning at the southeast corner of Palm and Myrtle. Cost is $5 per person. No registration, just show up.

~ The Monrovia Historical Museum is looking for volunteers. Opportunities in research, archiving, painting, crafting, woodworking, writing, editing, IT, technical support, and docenting. Open to anyone interested in contributing time or skills. For details or to volunteer, email info@monroviahistoricalmuseum.org.

~ The City has accepted the donation of the historic George H. Anderson House from the Monrovia Historical Society. Located at 215 E. Lime Avenue, the home is one of the oldest in the city. Plans include building a new foundation and installing underground plumbing. The Historical Society will remain involved in managing the home.

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Domenico’s

Dinner at Domenico’s, on the south side of Huntington just east of Magnolia. Got the ravioli at the happy hour half-price (to 6 p.m.) of $14.97 (Regular price is $29.95), and a beer for $7.95. It comes with soup or salad. Nice and filling. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: Woman scammed by fake celebrity; Palm tree fire at hotel; She got fake checks, they got her real money; Semi vs. bus, no injuries

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 27 – April 2. - Brad Haugaard]

During this period the Police Department handled 441 service events, resulting in 83 investigations.

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
March 27 at 12:54 a.m., officers responded to the 400 block of Sierra Vista regarding disturbing subjects. Officers arrived and made contact with the subjects who were confrontational. A computer search revealed one of the subjects had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Critical Missing
March 27 at 8:10 a.m., a caller reported that her father walked to a restaurant in the 400 block of Los Angeles and did not return. A silver alert was sent out. He was located and transported to a hospital to be evaluated.

Theft by False Pretenses
March 27 at 9:08 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 200 block of E. Pomona regarding a theft. Officers arrived and made contact with the victim who reported that a subject convinced her to send him money claiming to be a celebrity. This investigation is continuing.

Fraud
March 27 at 9:22 a.m., a victim in the 100 block of E. Chestnut reported that she was contacted by two subjects who issued her fictitious checks and asked her to electronically transfer funds to them. She realized the checks were fictitious after she sent the money. This investigation is continuing.

Theft
March 27 at 10:19 a.m., a caller shopping at a store in the 100 block of W. Foothill reported her wallet stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Identity Theft
March 27 at 2:39 p.m., a resident in the 800 block of Oakglade reported fraudulent activity on her credit report. This investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
March 27 at 3:50 p.m., a traffic collision between a vehicle and a bicyclist was reported in the area of Fifth and Duarte. Officers arrived and made contact with the parties involved. The bicyclist was transported to a hospital for treatment.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
March 27 at 7:53 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 100 block of W. Foothill regarding a suspicious person causing a disturbance in front of a business. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject who was determined to be too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Hit and Run Traffic Collision
March 27 at 9:32 p.m., a hit and run traffic collision involving a parked vehicle was reported in the 200 block of Fowler. This investigation is continuing.

Theft
March 27 at 9:33 p.m., a caller in the 600 block of W. Huntington reported a bicycle theft. This investigation is continuing.

Stolen License Plate – Suspect Arrested
March 27 at 11:00 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of E. Maple reported the license plate of her vehicle stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Warrant Arrest / Drug Arrest – Suspect Arrested
March 27 at 11:10 p.m., officers conducted a traffic stop on a bicyclist in the 200 block of E. Pomona for a traffic violation. A computer search revealed he had a warrant for his arrest. An investigation revealed he was in possession of a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Drug Arrest – Suspect Arrested
March 28 at 12:19 a.m., while patrolling the area of Duarte and Mayflower an officer saw a bicyclist commit a traffic violation. An investigation revealed he was in possession of a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Drug Arrest – Suspect Arrested
March 28 at 3:39 a.m., officers patrolling the 1500 block of S. Myrtle saw a suspicious subject outside a business and made contact. An investigation revealed she was in possession of drug paraphernalia. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Drug Possession – Suspect Arrested
March 28 at 3:58 p.m., an officer patrolling the area of Central and Magnolia saw a bicyclist commit a traffic violation. A traffic stop was conducted and the bicyclist was contacted. An investigation revealed he was in possession of a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
March 28 at 6:01 p.m., officers were dispatched to a store in the 500 block of W. Huntington regarding a female suspect that was concealing merchandise. The female was recognized by store security as a suspect who had stolen from them three times in the past three days. Officers arrived and made contact with the female subject. She was found to be in possession of the merchandise. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Reckless Driving – Suspect Arrested
March 28 at 10:10 p.m., an officer patrolling the area of Myrtle and Huntington saw a motorcyclist driving recklessly. A traffic stop was conducted and the rider was contacted. The rider was arrested and taken into custody.

Drug Arrest – Suspect Arrested
March 29 at 1:23 a.m., officers patrolling the 100 block of W. Colorado saw a suspicious vehicle occupied by two subjects in a parking structure. The officers made contact with the subjects and discovered they were in possession of drug paraphernalia and a controlled substance. They were arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 29 at 2:37 a.m., while patrolling the 100 block of W. Central an officer saw a vehicle commit a traffic violation. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was contacted. The driver 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.

Drug Arrest – Suspect Arrested
March 29 at 3:55 a.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop on a bicyclist for a vehicle code violation in the 700 block of E. Huntington. During the investigation, the suspect was found to be in possession of a controlled substance. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Drunk in Public – Suspect Arrested
March 29 at 11:06 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of N. Myrtle called to report a subject was inside his parked car. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject who displayed symptoms of being intoxicated and unable to care for himself. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Palm Tree Fire
March 29 at 2:48 p.m., an employee from a hotel in the 700 block of W. Huntington reported a palm tree on fire. Officers and MFD responded and extinguished the fire. This investigation is continuing.

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
March 29 at 5:09 p.m., a caller in the 900 block of W. Foothill reported two subjects running out of a business and getting into a vehicle, believing a crime had occurred, the caller followed the vehicle. Officers located the vehicle, conducted a traffic stop and made contact with the occupants. A computer search revealed two passengers had warrants for their arrest. They were arrested and taken into custody.

Drug Arrest / Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
March 29 at 8:25 p.m., while patrolling the 400 block of W. Maple an officer saw a bicyclist in violation of a vehicle code and conducted a traffic stop. A computer search revealed he had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
March 30 at 3:36 a.m., a disturbance was reported in the 400 block of S. Lincoln. Officers arrived and discovered that a female subject had been playing loud music in her parked vehicle and when neighbors asked her to lower the volume, she exited the car and yelled at them. Officers determined she was too intoxicated to care for herself. She was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 30 at 5:31 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 100 block of E. Central regarding a welfare check on a subject sleeping behind the wheel. Officers arrived and an investigation revealed he was under the influence. He was arrested and transported to the MDP jail to be held for a sobering period.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 30 at 9:35 a.m., a resident in the 500 block of S. Ivy reported that a drunk driver struck her vehicle. Officers arrived and made contact with all parties at the scene. An investigation revealed no collision had occurred, but the driver displayed symptoms of intoxication. 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.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
March 30 at 10:07 p.m., a caller in a business in the 400 block of S. Myrtle reported a disturbing subject. Officers arrived and determined the subject was disrupting employees and customers. An investigation revealed he was too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Mental Evaluation
March 31 at 10:21 a.m., employees from a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington reported a disturbing subject who was refusing to leave the restaurant. Officers arrived and located the subject, whom they recognized from prior contacts. The officers determined he was a danger to himself. He was transported to a medical facility for a mental evaluation.

Elder Abuse
March 31 at 4:01 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 200 block of Montana regarding a father and son who were involved in a physical confrontation. Officers arrived and noticed injuries to the father. The son was arrested for elder abuse and taken into custody.

Found Property / Theft
March 31 at 5:47 p.m., a resident in the 1400 block of S. Alta reported finding property on her lawn. Officers arrived and determined it was stolen property. The property was returned to a local department store. This investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
April 1 at 1:16 p.m., a victim in the 1200 block of S. Alta Vista reported her home was burglarized. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto Recovery
April 1 at 1:20 p.m., an employee from a business in the 3300 block of S. Peck reported a vehicle sold to them was found to have been reported stolen out of Los Angeles. This investigation is continuing.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
April 1 at 6:05 p.m., officers were dispatched to the area of Duarte and Mountain regarding a traffic collision between a semi-truck and a bus. No injuries were reported.

Illegal Burning
April 1 at 8:58 p.m., a brush fire was reported in the 700 block of W. Chestnut. Officers arrived and located a small fire to the rear of a business and extinguished it. This investigation is continuing.

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
April 2 at 2:14 a.m., while patrolling the area of Greystone and Grand an officer saw a vehicle commit a traffic violation. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver along with the occupants were contacted. A computer check revealed two of the occupants had warrants for their arrest. An investigation also revealed that the occupants were in possession of credit cards belonging to others. They were arrested and taken into custody.

Drug Activity – Suspect Arrested
April 2 at 12:55 p.m., an employee from a business in the 1800 block of S. Myrtle a male subject outside smoking a controlled substance. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject. An investigation revealed he was also in possession of a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Theft
April 2 at 4:38 p.m., a victim in the 700 block of E. Huntington called to report her wallet was stolen while shopping. This investigation is continuing.

Farmers Market at Station Square will open earlier; City gets $94,000 a year for homelessness; CERT team will receive award

From Tuesday's City Council meeting:

~ The Saturday Farmers Market at Station Square will relaunch this Saturday, April 5, with earlier operating hours of 8 a.m. (instead of 9 a.m.) to 12 p.m., to avoid the heat of the day. 

~ Monrovia will receive an annual allocation of $94,000 from Measure A, the recently approved countywide sales tax, for homeless services.

~ Monrovia's Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) will receive a silver award from the California Emergency Services Association Southern Chapter for its contributions to emergency preparedness.

Meeting video here.

- Brad Haugaard

MHS grad and soldier, Edvin F. Franco, dies in Lithuania

Edvin F. Franco, a 2018 Monrovia High School graduate, was among the four U.S. soldiers who lost their lives last week in Lithuania while conducting a training mission, according to Monrovia Schools Superintendent Dr. Paula Hart Rodas. She added that “Edvin’s dedication to service and his sacrifice for our country will never be forgotten.” Franco’s Facebook page says he was married in March of 2024 to Georgia Franco and was living in Hinesville, Georgia.

- Brad Haugaard 

Bruce is an adventurous clown who's looking for a peaceful home

Bruce is a five-star sweetheart with a big heart and a big personality! This affectionate 3-year-old pit bull mix is looking for a quiet, loving home where he can share his endless cuddles. He’s well-mannered and gentle, and he adores car rides. Once he’s settled, he’ll happily ride along as your loyal co-pilot, always ready for the next adventure.

Bruce has been spending time with a Pasadena Humane foster family, and they have great things to say about him. Beyond his sweet nature, Bruce is a total clown! He loves rolling onto his back, kicking his legs in the air like a goofball—especially when belly rubs are involved (his absolute favorite!). His stuffed birthday cake toy and elk antler are his most prized possessions, and he proudly carries them around wherever he goes. If you’re a fan of Chappell Roan, Bruce just might be your perfect match—start singing, and he’ll come running, ready to join in the fun!

Bruce also has an adventurous side and loves hiking, trips to the park, and just being outside with his favorite people. However, at the end of the day, he thrives in a calm and peaceful environment where he can relax and soak up all the love he craves. If you’re looking for a sweet, playful, and utterly hilarious companion, Bruce is your guy—ready to bring laughter, love, and a little bit of goofiness into your life!

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 10:00 – 5:00. 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

Addams Family play set for April 10-12

Tickets here.

- Brad Haugaard

A Moment in Monrovia History: 1887 investment banker's office

Office of L.H. Green & Co. - Investment Bankers, Monrovia, around 1887. Mr. Green to the right. Unknown young man at left side of desk. Mrs. Hotchkiss said he was accidently killed while hunting; the gun on the buggy seat exploded. The inner room where ladies who were thought to be more gentle could conduct business. Green & Co.'s office was on the east side of Ivy Avenue across the street from the Grand View Hotel. The building was originally opposite the Grand View Hotel and later moved to the 500 block of S Myrtle Ave 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

Current Local Job Opportunities - April

Here are links to the latest job opportunities for Monrovia:

Monrovia School District 

City of Monrovia 

Private 

- Brad Haugaard