News: brad.haugaard@gmail.com   •  Restaurants   •  Library Catalog   •  Library Activities  •  History   •  Facebook / X / RSS

Dinner at Copper Still Grill


Dinner at Copper Still Grill, on the east side of Myrtle just south of Colorado. Got the Pesto Chicken Sandwich for $12.75 and a beer for $5. Very nice. 

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Shots fired on Walnut Street; Downed power line sparks fire; Suspect lights vehicle ablaze; Gun found in traffic stop; Stolen phone suspect caught; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 10 – 15. - Brad Haugaard]

During this period the Police Department handled 368 service events, resulting in 64 investigations.

Shooting
July 10 at 6:55 p.m., callers in the 900 block of W. Walnut reported hearing shots in the area. Officers responded and found evidence of a shooting. No injuries were reported. This investigation is continuing.

Mental Evaluation
July 10 at 7:32 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 200 block of E. Lime regarding a subject wanting to harm himself. Officers arrived and determined he was a danger to himself. He was transported to a medical facility for a mental evaluation.

Fire Assist
July 10 at 8:36 p.m., a caller in the 400 block of W. Hillcrest reported a downed power line in the street. The power line was sparking and appeared to have ignited a bush. Upon arrival, officers located the power line and blocked off the street until the fire department and Edison arrived. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries or damage.

Fire
July 11 at 3:16 p.m., a resident in the 100 block of W. Colorado reported seeing smoke coming from an apartment. Officers and MFD responded and extinguished a small fire on a patio.

Vandalism
July 11 at 8:24 p.m., officers responded to the 600 block of E. Huntington regarding a vandalism report. Officers arrived and made contact with the victim who reported that someone used a marker to write on her vehicle. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
July 11 at 8:24 p.m., a grand theft was reported in the 1300 block of S. Mountain. Officers arrived and made contact with a business owner who reported copper was stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
July 12 at 2:50 a.m., a victim walked into the MPD lobby to report a domestic violence incident. The victim reported that his girlfriend struck him in the face and he received medical treatment by MFD. The girlfriend turned herself in later in the day. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Mental Evaluation
July 12 at 12:15 p.m., a resident in the 100 block of W. Olive reported that someone was trying to harm him. Officers arrived and determined he was a danger to himself. He was transported to a medical facility for a mental evaluation.

Hit and Run Traffic Collision
July 12 at 2:24 p.m., a caller in the area of 5th and Walnut reported being involved in a hit and run traffic collision. She stated that another vehicle sideswiped her and left the scene without stopping or exchanging information. This investigation is continuing.

Tree
July 12 at 3:39 p.m., a resident in the area of Linwood and Primrose reported a fallen tree. Fortunately, both vehicles were unoccupied at the time of the incident. Public Works promptly responded to assess the situation and coordinated the safe removal of the tree.

Weapons Arrest – Suspect Arrested
July 12 at 8:43 p.m., an officer patrolling the 100 block of E. Lime saw a vehicle commit a violation and a traffic stop was conducted. The driver was contacted and an investigation revealed the driver was in possession of a firearm. The driver was arrested and taken into custody.

Warrant / Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
July 12 at 10:16 p.m., officers responded to a disturbance between a male and female in the 300 block of S. Myrtle. A computer search revealed the male had a warrant for his arrest. The female was found to be too intoxicated to care for herself. He was arrested and taken into custody. She was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Drug Arrest – Suspect Arrested
July 12 at 11:42 p.m., while patrolling the area of Myrtle and Chestnut an officer saw a vehicle commit a violation. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was contacted. An investigating revealed the driver was in possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. The driver was arrested and taken into custody.

Vehicle Fire
July 12 at 4:15 p.m., a vehicle fire was reported in the 400 block of W. Huntington. Officers and MFD responded and the fire was extinguished. An investigation revealed that a male subject ignited the vehicle and fled the area. This investigation is continuing.

Battery
July 13 at 6:25 p.m., a caller in the 100 block of W. Foothill reported that an unknown male subject struck the victim without provocation. This investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
July 13 at 11:26 p.m., an officer patrolling the area of Myrtle and Cherry saw a subject laying on a sidewalk. The officer contacted the subject and determined the subject was too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Vandalism
July 14 at 10:44 a.m., a resident in the 700 block of Monterey walked into the MPD lobby to report that someone keyed his vehicle. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft – Suspect Arrested
July 14 at 11:05 a.m., a caller in the 600 block of W. Huntington reported that someone stole his cellphone. The investigation revealed a suspect. Officers located and made contact with the suspect. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Petty Theft
July 14 at 11:31 a.m., a victim in the 200 block of W. Huntington reported his vehicle was broken into and property was taken. This investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
July 14 at 11:29 a.m., officers responded to a business in the 400 block of W. Foothill regarding a male subject yelling at customers. 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.

Fraud
July 14 at 11:35 a.m., a resident walked into the MPD lobby to report a check she mailed out was forged and cashed. This investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
July 14 at 3:16 p.m., officers were dispatched to a store in the 700 block of W. Huntington regarding a shoplifting in progress. Officers arrived and located to two suspects outside the store, still in possession of the stolen property. They were arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
July 14 at 5:46 p.m., a caller in the area of Primrose and Foothill reported a vehicle stopped in the middle of the road. Officers arrived and made contact with the driver who 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.

Incident Report
July 14 at 5:45 p.m., officers responded to the 400 block of S. Myrtle regarding an intoxicated female. She was transported to the hospital for treatment. This investigation is continuing.

Misappropriation of Found Property
July 14 at 10:46 pm, a subject walked into the MPD lobby to report his wallet lost and unauthorized transactions on his credit cards. This investigation is continuing.

Municipal Code Violation – Suspect Arrested
July 15, at 3:12 am, an officer patrolling a park in the 1600 block of S. Myrtle saw a subject loitering after hours. The officer made contact with the subject. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Vehicle Burglary
July 15 at 8:33 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of W. Evergreen reported that a rear window of his vehicle was smashed and property was taken. This investigation is continuing.

Court Order Violation
July 15 at 3:45 p.m., a victim walked into the MPD lobby to report a court order violation. This investigation is continuing.

Monrovia Police arrive for a roadside birth of Baby Sophia

Recently released Monrovia PD footage of the birth of Sophia on July 8. The MPD post says, "our officers arrived just in time to help welcome her roadside."

- Brad Haugaard

Registration for bus trip to Orange County fair ends tomorrow - July 17

Registration closes tomorrow, July 17, for a Community Center day trip to the Orange County Fair. Trip includes bus transportation from the Community Center, departing at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 24. The event features exhibits, food, arts, crafts, gardening, and livestock, but does not include admission or meals. For adults 18 and older. Fee: $20 for residents, $30 for non-residents. Details

- Brad Haugaard

Stunning Lula, an Eaton fire stray, is looking for an adventure buddy


Lula is a stunning brindle Dutch Shepherd mix at Pasadena Humane with striking blue eyes that will stop you in your tracks. She is nearly two years old and came in as a stray during the Eaton Fire. She has been searching for her forever home ever since! Full of energy and intelligence, Lula thrives with consistency and structure, and she’ll do best with an active adopter who can provide her with the training and outlets she needs to shine.

Lula would do best in a home without young children and no other dogs. She’s a spirited and loyal companion looking for someone who understands her needs and can help her thrive. If you’re interested in an adventure buddy, come meet Lula today!

From now until July 20th, dogs over 6 months old, like Lula, will have their adoption fee waived as part of the Hot Dog Summer adoption promotion at Pasadena Humane.

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: The Police Department personnel in 1974

Monrovia Police Department members in front of City Hall on Jan. 12, 1974. 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

Cava restaurant planned for Huntington Oaks Shopping Center


A new Mediterranean restaurant called Cava, part of a nationwide chain, is planned for the former Hart House restaurant next to Panera in the Huntington Oaks Shopping Center. Here is the restaurant's website. The Development Review Committee will consider its facade design at its next meeting. Details

- Brad Haugaard

Republik Coffee plans to open on Myrtle


Another coffee shop is planned for Monrovia; Republik Coffee, which plans to locate at the now-closed Sunday's Old Town Bistro on the east side of Myrtle just north of Colorado. The company has two other locations, in Pasadena and Burbank. Its slogan is, "Life is too short to drink bad coffee". Here is its website.

- Brad Haugaard

Rigo's Mexican Food plans to reopen across the street

Image courtesy of Google Maps.

Rigo's Mexican Food, a long-time restaurant on the northeast corner of Foothill and Mayflower, has been closed for years but plans to reopen directly across the street, at the southeast corner of Foothill and Mayflower. The restaurant is currently applying for an alcohol permit. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Poems in concrete planned for Monrovia sidewalks

At its next meeting (agenda here) the Art in Public Places Committee will consider adding these eight new poems to Monrovia sidewalks as they are repaired or replaced. Annual cost of the program is about $5,000.

Urban Garden
Violet, Mayflower,
Magnolia, Primrose, Myrtle –
Monrovia’s blooms.

Toasting the Moon
Bears in bowties bake moon pies,
Juggle jellybeans beneath starry skies.
They sip on tea with honey toast,
And toast the moon they love the most.

Let’s Walk
Take my hand, let’s walk
Take my words, let’s talk
Take my dreams, let’s wish
Take my heart, let’s love
Take my soul, let’s be

Wilderness Preserve & Canyon Park
Wilderness, you lack some shade but that’s okay
You offer much more than the sun’s glare
Canyon Park, how I’ve missed you
I hear you’re reopening soon, and I’ll be there
To pause, breathe, stroll, hike and be

Listen
In our corner of this metropolis
Listen to the shady oak, canyon falls,
Birds, bears, history preserved
In these mountain foothills
We call home

All-American City
Santa on his fire truck
Mark Twain in the park
Samson in his hot tub
Monrovia in our hearts

Monrovia!
A city for all
Spring, winter, and fall.
And, on sweet summer days
A soft, golden haze
Falls on hillsides and singing birds call.

I will be happy
Today I will be happy come what may
Come rain, come shine, it’s a new day
And each day I will raise my face to meet the sun
Yes, today I will be happy

- Brad Haugaard

Clothing drive to support Monrovia High musicians


Monrovia High's Musical Arts Program is trying to gather 3,000 pounds of clothing in its Clothing Drive Challenge to support student musicians. Donate gently used clothes, shoes and household textiles in 13 gallon trash bags only. Drop off days are Saturday, July 26, Saturday, August 2, and Saturday, August 9.  9 a.m. to noon in the teachers' parking lot.

- Brad Haugaard

Teen Trivia game at the Library July 12


Teen Trivia, game for students in grades 7–12, held Saturday, July 12 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. in the Library Story Room. Participants must register individually; team sizes limited to five. Individual registrants will be grouped. Register here.

- Brad Haugaard

Children make sun catchers at Library, July 14


Kids 6 to 11 can enjoy summer crafts and social time at Monday Funday on July 14 from 3 to 4 p.m. in the Library’s Story Time Room. Participants will make ocean-themed sun catchers. No registration required. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Play with Legos at the Library, July 17


LEGO Free Play lets children ages 2 to 12 and their parents build and play with library-provided LEGO blocks. Held in the Story Room on Thursday, July 17 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Yoga class for teens and adults July 19 at Library


Gentle yoga session for teens and adults focusing on movement, stretching, and breathing, at the Community Room on Saturday, July 19 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Walk-ins welcome. Mats and water provided; bring a towel. Designed to relax the body and calm the mind while improving strength and flexibility. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

ABC7 reports on Monrovia's block party trailer


ABC7 did a report on the block party trailer that Monrovia has available for residents. See it here

- Brad Haugaard

Teens can learn about Youth Commission and enjoy lemonade and games, July 16


Teens are invited to enjoy free lemonade and games while learning about the Youth Commission at Library Park on Wednesday, July 16, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.. The Commission will host a booth with Jenga, Connect 4, Spike ball, and Corn hole. The event encourages teens to get involved, plan events, and represent their peers. More about Youth Commission here.

- Brad Haugaard

Historic walking tour this Saturday

A walking tour focusing on Monrovia history will take place this Saturday at 10 a.m., led by the Monrovia Historic Preservation Group. The tour will last about two hours and cover six short city blocks. Cost is $5 per person. No RSVP, just  meet at the southeast corner of Myrtle and Palm Avenues.

- Brad Haugaard

Artist wanted for mural at new Tsuneishi Park

The city is looking for an artist to create a mural at Satoru Tsuneishi Park, now under construction, to highlight Asian American history in the city, including their agricultural contributions, and to celebrate Historic Route 66. The park will feature a playground, recreation space, picnic areas, and landscaping. Applications are due by July 31 at 6 p.m. Details

- Brad Haugaard

Council to consider 9% salary boost for City Manager; receive Community Center update

At upcoming Tuesday meetings the Monrovia City Council will  evaluate in closed session the performance of City Manager Dylan Feik (agenda here), then at its regular meeting (agenda here) consider removing the 5% annual raise limit to give him a 9% raise, and also to remove limits to enable him to receive a one-time payment for up to $30,000 of his unused sick time.

The staff report says the current 5% per year salary increase limit for the city manager's position "has become unworkable, and does not allow the City to keep up with the market for City Manager salaries." Feik's salary, the report says, is "significantly below market." Details

Also, the council will hold a study session (agenda here) to receive a Community Center project update.

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Jim’s Burgers


Dinner at Jim’s Burgers, at the shopping center near the corner of Duarte Road and Sixth. Got the Avocado BLT for $8.99 and a soda for $3.09. Nice. 

- Brad Haugaard

Pour House closing celebration July 12

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: Bear burglar breaks into Norumbega home; Extortion call foiled; Baby delivered in car; Tree falls on home, car; Etc.

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

During this period the Police Department handled 425 service events, resulting in 75 investigations.

Municipal Code Violation – Suspect Arrested
July 3 at 11:45 a.m., multiple callers in the 300 block of S. Myrtle reported a male subject bathing in a fountain at a park. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Bear
July 3 at 10:06 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 600 block of Norumbega regarding a possible residential burglary. Officers arrived and discovered that a bear had broken a side window and entered a bedroom.

Drug Activity
July 4 at 2:55 a.m., a caller in the 900 block of W. Huntington reported a female subject loitering. Officers arrived and located the female on the property. She was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia and was arrested. She was transported to the Monrovia Police Department for booking and was later released with a citation.

Mental Evaluation
July 4 at 9:13 a.m., officers responded to an alley in the 100 block of E. Lime regarding a subject sleeping in the road. They contacted the subject, who was determined to be extremely intoxicated. She was transported to a medical facility for treatment and a mental evaluation.

Vandalism
July 4 at 8:31 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of W. Colorado reported a group of juveniles had shattered a window to her home with fireworks. This investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
July 4 at 9:08 p.m., while patrolling the area of Myrtle and Palm officers saw a female subject arguing with a friend. An investigation revealed she was too intoxicated to care for herself. She was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Shoplifting
July 5 at 11:28 p.m., an employee from a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington reported a theft. Officers arrived and located the suspect. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
July 5 at 3:41 p.m., a theft was reported at a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington. Officers arrived and located the suspect. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Injury Traffic Collision
July 5 at 8:56 p.m., an injury traffic collision was reported in the area of Mountain and Duarte. Officers arrived and discovered a solo motorcyclist fleeing from Azusa PD collided and suffered injuries collided and suffered injuries.

Drug Arrest
July 5 at 11:23 p.m., while patrolling the area of Central and Myrtle, an officer saw a vehicle commit a traffic violation. A traffic stop was conducted and three occupants were contacted. An investigation revealed one occupant was in possession of a controlled substance, a second was in possession of an open container, and the third was unlicensed. They were arrested and taken into custody.

Domestic Violence
July 6 at 12:00 a.m., an officer responded to the 1000 block of Royal Oaks regarding a domestic violence incident that occurred a week prior. This investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrest
July 6 at 12:39 a.m., officers patrolling the area of Lemon and Myrtle saw two subjects who appeared to be intoxicated. They made contact with the subjects and determined they were too intoxicated to care for themselves. They were arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Vandalism
July 6 at 11:19 a.m., a caller in the 700 block of E. Huntington reported a tagging on a front door of a business. An investigation revealed who the suspect was. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Public Intoxication / Battery on a Police Officer
July 6 at 1:51 p.m., while patrolling the 500 block of W. Foothill, officers saw a subject who appeared intoxicated. Officers made contact with the subject and determined he was too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested and taken into custody. Once in the jail, the subject became argumentative, noncompliant, and struck an officer.

Fire
July 6 at 2:28 p.m., a caller in the area of Mayflower and Chestnut reported a brush fire. Officers and MFD responded and extinguished the fire. This investigation is continuing.

Unlawful Burning
July 7 at 2:23 a.m., an officer patrolling the 700 block of W. Duarte saw an open flame and found that a male subject started a small fire. He was arrested, cited and released at the scene.

Injury Traffic Collision
July 7 at 1:25 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in a parking lot in the 1600 block of S. Mountain. An investigation revealed a vehicle was driving at a high rate of speed in the parking lot and collided with a light pole and a fire hydrant. The driver sustained a minor injury. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
July 7 at 6:11 p.m., a grand theft from a residence in the 800 block of W. Colorado was reported. This investigation is continuing.

Death Report
July 7 at 8:16 p.m., officers responded to a residence in the 600 block of W Lime Ave regarding the death of a male who had been suffering from cancer. It appeared the individual had been deceased for approximately two weeks. The Los Angeles County Coroner's Office responded and took custody of the decedent.

Commercial Burglary
July 8 at 8:50 a.m., employees arrived to work at a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington and noticed a window was smashed. Officers responded and cleared the inside of the business. A safe was stolen from the location. This investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft – Suspect Arrested
July 8 at 9:38 a.m., an employee from a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain reported a theft. Officers arrived and located the suspect nearby. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Loitering
July 8 at 10:47 a.m., officers responded to a business in the 1300 block of S. Magnolia regarding a male subject loitering on the property. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject. He was found to be in possession of a controlled substance. He was arrested, cited and released at the scene.

Extortion
July 8 at 11:02 a.m., a caller in the 400 block of S. Myrtle reported an unknown subject called him saying that he had the caller’s mother and would release her once money was paid. Officers were able to make contact with the caller’s mother and confirm she was safe. This investigation is continuing.

Fraud
July 8 at 4:34 p.m., an employee from a business in the 100 block of W. Pomona reported fraudulent activity on an employee’s timecard. This investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
July 8 at 5:29 p.m., officers responded to the area of Linwood and Magnolia regarding an injury traffic collision. Officers arrived and made contact with the parties involved. One of the parties involved sustained injuries, but refused medical treatment.

Medical Assist
July 8 at 8:14 p.m., a resident in the 700 block of W. Hillcrest reported her husband accidentally injured himself while trimming a bush. Officers arrived and rendered medical aid until the MFD arrived. The subject was subsequently transported to a nearby hospital for further treatment.

Medical Assist
July 8 at 9:50 p.m., a caller in the area of Mountain and Wildrose reported his partner gave birth in the backseat of their vehicle. Officers arrived and discovered the proud new mother delivered a healthy baby. MFD responded and transported the mother and baby to a hospital for treatment.

Grand Theft
July 9 at 8:29 a.m., a resident in the 500 block of E. Colorado reported his vehicle’s tailgate stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
July 9 at 8:53 a.m., a theft was reported in the 300 block of E. Colorado. The officer arrived and discovered the victim’s tailgate from his vehicle was stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Tree
July 9 at 5:28 p.m., an officer responded to a residence in the 100 block of Norumbega regarding a large tree falling on a house and vehicle. Public Works and MFD also responded to the scene. No injuries were reported.

Warrant Arrest
July 9 at 7:43 p.m., a family disturbance was reported in the 100 block of Montana. Officers arrived and made contact with the parties involved. An investigation revealed a verbal altercation between a father and his son was intensifying and they were separated. A computer search revealed the son had two warrants for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Battery / Mental Evaluation / Vandalism
July 9 at 9:36 p.m., a battery was reported in the 1100 block of E. Huntington. Officers arrived and located the suspect nearby. An investigation revealed the victim was battered by the suspect in an unprovoked attack, bystanders reported that an additional victim was attacked nearby. He was arrested and taken into custody.

City phone lines not working today, July 9

City phone lines are temporarily down today, July 9, due to technical issues. Phone service is currently unavailable at City Hall, Public Works Yard, Community Center, Library, and non-emergency Fire and Police lines. Emergency 911 lines remain operational.

- Brad Haugaard

Hot Dog & Cool Cat adoption event July 9-20


Pasadena Humane, which serves Monrovia, will waive adoption fees for all adult dogs and cats, six months and older, from July 9 to July 20 during its “Hot Dog & Cool Cat” summer promotion. The shelter is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. The event aims to find homes for nearly 150 animals as shelter intake rises. Adoptions are first-come, first-served, with standard screenings. View the cats, dogs and other assorted critters here.

- Brad Haugaard

Blue is an affectionate companion with a dash of mischief


Blue is a three-year-old fawn pit bull with a big heart and a dash of mischief. After coming to Pasadena Humane during the Eaton Fire, Blue was understandably nervous and unsure. With a lot of patient care, he’s grown into a loyal, affectionate companion. His foster family describes him as a well-adjusted indoor dog - he's fully house-trained, gentle at mealtimes, and happiest when snuggled close to you or chasing after a toy.

Blue would thrive in a home without other animals and ideally with adults or older children who can provide a structured environment. He’s still working on leash manners and can be reactive toward other dogs, so a private yard or balcony for potty breaks would be a helpful plus.

If you’re home often and looking for a loving, loyal sidekick who just needs a little understanding, Blue might be your perfect match!

Pasadena Humane is excited to promote “Hot Dog Summer”, taking place from July 9 to July 20, where adoption fees will be waived for all available adult dogs, six months and older.

Outside of this promotion, 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: Monrovia Nursery in 1940s

Monrovia Nursery Company in 1947-1948 showing equipment and plants. Monrovia Nursery was founded in 1926 by Danish immigrant Harry E. Rosedale on a 10‑acre plot in Monrovia, where it stayed until around 1956, when it moved to a larger rural site in the Azusa‑Glendora area, and now has locations throughout the United States. From the Gary Boen collection.  Here is an old LA Times article about the company. 

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

Book Reviews of two new Monrovia history books


I just finished reading two great new Monrovia history books by historian Richard Singer: Monrovia Confidential, about the seamy side of life in a “great little American town,“ and Tales of the Gem City, snapshots of life in Monrovia from 1912 to 1950.

Both books, collections of short stories, are relatively brief compared to his previous works, 173 pages for Monrovia Confidential and 140 for Tales of the Gem City, and both are thoroughly engaging.

For example, in Tales of the Gem City, there’s the story of the Dokeys (yes, Dokeys), their fabulous get together here in Monrovia, and it’s unfortunate conclusion.

And in Monrovia Confidential, we learn of Marcus (aka “Shorty”) Monroe, the unsavory grandson of town founder, William Monroe.

Here’s the start of that story, just to give you a flavor of how Singer writes:

“One thing had to be clear to Marcus Monroe as he sat in a Mexican jail awaiting extradition. He was a failure at his chosen profession.

“Lord knows he'd tried—really worked at it—but, with one failure after another over more than three decades, his career in crime had pretty much run its course. Not that he wasn't good at robbery and thuggery and such. He was. He just wasn't very good at getting away with it. And now here he was, 51 years old and in jail again.”

Both books are available for purchase for $20 each at Charlie's House, 430 S. Myrtle Ave. in Old Town. All proceeds go to support Monrovia's historical heritage.

- Brad Haugaard

Unity Center school supply drive

- Brad Haugaard 

Super Mario party July 12 at Library


Super Mario Cooking in the Library Community Room on Saturday, July 12 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. for 16 and older. Participants will make a Super Mario themed pizza biscuit. Registration required. Details.

Brad Haugaard

Make a Mario clock - teens and older, July 12


Create a Mario-themed clock at Super Mario Clock Craft in the Library Community Room on Saturday, July 12 from noon to 1 p.m. for 16 and older. Participants will use acrylic paint pens to decorate and take home a working wooden Mario clock. Registration required. Details here.

- Brad Haugaard

Happy 2025 Fourth of July Monrovia!


The view from Foothill Boulevard.

- Brad Haugaard

No late fees for utility bills this time around

A system malfunction with Monrovia's billing provider caused a five-day delay in sending utility bills, so late fees will be waived for this billing cycle. For help, contact Utility Billing at 932-5517.

- Brad Haugaard

Library Park concert schedule - Funk music on July 6

- Brad Haugaard

Your power rates vs. So Cal Edison's base rate

If you selected the Clean Power Alliance's Lean Power option for your electricity, your rates just went down on July 1 by 2% compared to Southern California Edison’s base rate. The Clean Power option roughly matches Edison's rate, and the 100% Green Power rate is 6% higher than Edison. You can change your rate plan, or opt out, at any time. CPA website here.

- Brad Haugaard

Library now has Mayflower and Jamestown genealogical records


The Library now offers rare genealogical resources, including the Mayflower Silver Books and Jamestown Books. Donated by the California Mayflower Society and the Jamestown Society, these collections detail Mayflower and Jamestown family histories. Many volumes are out of print and unavailable online. The Monrovia Library is one of only three in California with the full Mayflower set.

- Brad Haugaard

City wants residents' thoughts on proposed 5-story residential complex

Proposed residential project.
Project location.

The city is asking for residents' thoughts on a Draft Environmental Impact Report for a proposed five-story mixed-use development at the southwest corner of Myrtle and Olive. The EIR can be reviewed here.  Public comments are due by August 18 by email (planning@monroviaca.gov), or by mail to: City of Monrovia - Community Development Department, Attn: John Mayer, Planning Division Manager, 415 South Ivy Avenue, Monrovia, CA 91016

The city reports that the project would be "a five-story building containing 204 residential units, including 20 affordable units, approximately 2,370 square feet of commercial retail space, and 2,782 square feet of indoor fitness center space. It also includes 1.5 levels of underground parking with 329 spaces, public and private open space, and a variety of residential amenities."

- Brad Haugaard

City still wants thoughts on traffic safety


Monrovia is still seeking input on its traffic safety project, which seems to focus primarily on bicycle safety. Survey is here. Available until August 1.

- Brad Haugaard

Major work on Mountain Avenue begins Monday, July 7


Major street repairs on Mountain and Peck Road will begin July 7. Work includes resurfacing streets, repairing sidewalks, planting trees, and adding medians. Initial work, from July 7 to 11, focuses on Mountain (from Foothill to Huntington), with repaving, pedestrian safety, concrete, and 22 new trees. Peck Road work (from Duarte Road south) starts later this summer. Expect traffic delays, noise, and parking restrictions from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

- Brad Haugaard

Music and fireworks tonight at Library Parki


Fourth of July fireworks, live music, and festivities tonight in Library Park. Starts at 3 p.m. with a DJ, followed by the Blue Breeze Band at 7 p.m., playing Motown, R&B, Soul, Funk, Jazz, and Blues. Fireworks show around 9 p.m.

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Basin 141


Dinner at Basin 141, at the southeast corner of Myrtle and Lime. Got the bacon-wrapped 141 Dog with a salad for $16 and a beer for the happy hour price of $5.50. Delicious dog!

- Brad Haugaard 


Monrovia History Workshop on Anna and Sophia Jones July 18

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Driver intentionally crashes into wall, gets mental exam; Man injured by fireworks, gets tourniquet; Man arrested for starting trash fire; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for June 26 – July 2. - Brad Haugaard]

During this period the Police Department handled 459 service events, resulting in 76 investigations.  

Attempt Grand Theft Auto
June 26 at 4:04 a.m., a victim in the 100 block of S. Mayflower reported seeing unknown subjects inside her parked vehicle. Officers arrived and learned the victim yelled at the subjects and they fled prior to officers’ arrival. This investigation is continuing. 

Battery – Suspect Arrested
June 26 at 7:42 p.m., officers responded to a residence in the 1300 block of California regarding a family disturbance. Officers arrived and made contact with the parties involved. An investigation revealed a son and father were arguing, the son pushed the father and caused the father injuries. The son was arrested and taken into custody. 

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 27 at 2:37 a.m., while patrolling the area of Huntington and Ivy an officer 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. 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. 

Shoplifting
June 27 at 1:38 p.m., a theft in progress was reported at a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington. The suspect was gone prior to officers’ arrival. This investigation is continuing. 

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
June 27 at 3:10 p.m., a caller in the 200 block of W. Pomona reported a subject was trespassing. Officers arrived and located the subject. A computer search revealed she had multiple warrants for her arrest. She was arrested and taken into custody. 

Wanted – Suspect Arrested
June 27 at 7:38 p.m., while patrolling the 200 block of W. Foothill, officers saw a subject wanted for domestic violence. Officers made contact with the subject and a computer search confirmed he was wanted. He was arrested and taken into custody. 

Mental Evaluation
June 27 at 8:27 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 900 block of W. Huntington. Officers arrived and discovered a solo vehicle traffic collision into a wall. An investigation revealed the driver intentionally collided into the wall. It was determined he was a danger to himself. He was transported to a medical facility for a mental evaluation. 

Resisting / Municipal Code Violation – Suspect Arrested
June 28 at 2:01 a.m., an officer patrolling the 1600 block of S. Myrtle saw a subject at a park after hours, in violation of a municipal code. During the contact with the subject, the subject refused to cooperate and physically resisted. He was arrested and taken into custody. 

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
June 28 at 1:00 p.m., a disruptive subject was reported at a restaurant in the 900 block of W. Huntington. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject. A computer check revealed he had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody. 

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
June 28 at 7:10 p.m., a theft was reported in the 700 block of E. Huntington. Officers arrived and made contact with the suspect. She was arrested and taken into custody. 

Mental Evaluation
June 29 at 9:57 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of E. Lemon reported that her daughter was experiencing a mental health crisis. Officers arrived and made contact with the daughter. It was determined she was a danger to others. She was transported to a medical facility for a mental evaluation. 

Grand Theft – Suspect Arrested
June 29 at 2:16 p.m., an employee from a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington reported a grand theft. Officers arrived and made contact with two subjects. They were arrested and taken into custody. 

Attempt Burglary
June 30 at 12:53 a.m., employees from a business in the 300 block of W. Foothill reported hearing glass shatter and a seeing a subject attempting to enter. The subject was gone prior to officers’ arrival. 

Burglary
June 30 at 6:41 a.m., officers were dispatched to a restaurant in the 200 block of W. Foothill regarding a burglary. An investigation revealed a subject made entry, ransacked the restaurant, and fled. This investigation is continuing. 

Grand Theft Auto
June 30 at 1:31 p.m., a caller in the 200 block of Kruse reported their vehicle stolen. This investigation is continuing. 

Grand Theft Auto
June 30 at 4:48 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the 1600 block of S. Magnolia regarding a vehicle theft report. The victim stated that his vehicle had been stolen from his driveway sometime overnight. An area check was conducted, but the vehicle was not located. This investigation is continuing. 

Hit and Run Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 30 at 5:08 p.m., a hit and run traffic collision was reported in the 800 block of Royal Oaks. Officers arrived and located the suspect vehicle near the area with a female and male subject inside. The subjects were located as they were using a controlled substance. The male subject became uncooperative and was refusing to leave the vehicle. A computer search revealed both subjects had warrant for their arrest. They were arrested and taken into custody. 

Assault
June 30 at 7:39 p.m., an assault was reported in the 100 block of E. Olive. Officers arrived and determined that the suspect and the victim were intoxicated, were involved in an argument that escalated to an assault. The victim suffered an abrasion. The suspect was gone prior to officers’ arrival. This investigation is continuing. 

Injury Hit and Run Traffic Collision
June 30 at 11:44 p.m., a hit and run traffic collision was reported in the 900 block of W. Colorado. Officers arrived and made contact with the victim who reported that his parked vehicle was hit while he was inside. The victim was transported to a hospital for treatment. The suspect fled after hitting a second parked vehicle. This investigation is continuing. 

Grand Theft
July 1 at 6:23 a.m., a grand theft was reported in the 900 block of W. Colorado. Officers arrived and determined the victim’s vehicle was ransacked and property was taken. This investigation is continuing. 

Defrauding an Innkeeper – Suspect Arrested
July 1 at 1:33 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 300 block of W. Huntington regarding two suspects that ate at a restaurant and left without paying. Officers arrived and located one of the subjects nearby. A computer check revealed he had several warrants for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody. 

Alcohol Offense – Suspect Arrested
July 1 at 8:27 p.m., a caller in the 800 block of W. Duarte reported several subjects on the sidewalk drinking alcohol. Officers arrived and made contact with several subjects. An officer saw one of the subjects put a bottle of alcohol down on the sidewalk and was attempting to walk away. He was arrested and taken into custody. 

Fraud
July 1 at 8:18 p.m., a victim walked into the MPD lobby to report that a check that he mailed was cashed by an unknown subject. This investigation is continuing. 

Battery
July 2 at 2:22 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 700 block of W. Huntington regarding a battery. Officers arrived and determined two subjects were involved in an argument that escalated to a battery. The parties involved did not desire prosecution. This investigation is continuing. 

Mental Evaluation
July 2 at 8:53 a.m., a caller in the area of Fifth and Sierra Blanca reported an intoxicated female subject inside a vehicle. Officers arrived and made contact with the female subject, she was found to in possession of drug paraphernalia. It was determined she was experiencing a mental health crisis. She was transported to a medical facility for a mental evaluation. 

Trespassing / Vandalism – Suspect Arrested
July 2 at 10:05 a.m., a business in the 800 block of S. Shamrock reported disturbing subjects on their property. Officers arrived and made contact with the subjects. A female subject vandalized a work station and she was arrested and taken into custody. 

Arson – Suspect Arrested
July 2 at 10:58 a.m., a trash fire was reported in the 700 block of E. Huntington. Officers arrived and located the subject who started the fire. He was arrested and taken into custody. 

Illegal Fireworks / Medical Assist
July 2 at 3:25 p.m., officers responded to the 100 block of Montana regarding an adult subject who injured himself when lighting illegal fireworks. Officers arrived and immediately applied a tourniquet to the subject's arm. He was transported to a hospital for medical attention. 

Driving Under the Influence
July 2 at 11:59 p.m., an officer in the area of Myrtle and Montana saw a vehicle commit a traffic offense. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was contacted. The driver displayed symptoms of intoxication. A DUI investigation determined she was intoxicated. She was transported to a hospital. This investigation is continuing.