Transient arrested on suspicion of killing his father

Arturo Gonzalez Jr., a transient, has been arrested on suspicion of killing his father at his apartment on West Olive in Monrovia last Saturday. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Police chief reports crime trending down in Monrovia

Monrovia Police Chief Heath Harvey reported to the City Council Tuesday night that crime is down in the city, though police activity (such as patrolling and special details) is up.

- Brad Haugaard

Cops are looking for son of man murdered on Olive

The LA Sheriffs Department Homicide Bureau is looking for the son of the man murdered on Olive Avenue as a suspect in the killing and is asking for the public’s help locating Arturo Gonzalez Jr.

The Sheriff's Department said Gonzalez is believed to be transient, frequently using public transportation and LA Metro trains. He has been seen in Long Beach, Lakewood, Hawaiian Gardens, Norwalk, Pasadena and Altadena.

Anyone with information should contact Sergeants Delia or Mezzano at Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau, 323-890-5500.

If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call "Crime Stoppers" by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), or use the website at http://lacrimestoppers.org

Note: I've been contacted by MetroLink to let me know that the reference to "MetroLink" in the above article and image is incorrect, that it should be "LA Metro," a separate agency serving LA County.  MetroLink covers six counties; LA Metro just LA. I've modified text and image.

- Brad Haugaard

Handsome Harry is full of energy and love

Harry is a handsome year-old red and white husky, who was found as a stray in Pasadena. This lovable guy is playful, friendly and appreciates a good belly rub! He is very smart and even knows commands such as “sit”, “stay” and “leave it”. He would do well in an only-pet home that can give him lots of attention and keep up with his abundant energy!

If you are looking for an affectionate and intelligent companion, then come meet Harry at Pasadena Humane! He is eager to become your new best friend and can't wait to cuddle up with you.

Walk-in adoptions are available every day from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. View photos of adoptable pets at pasadenahumane.org.

The adoption fee for dogs is $150. All dog adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines. Adopters will receive a complimentary health and wellness exam from a participating veterinarian and an information packet on caring for your new pet.   Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia High debate team earns awards

The Monrovia High School Debate Team earned multiple awards Saturday at the International School of Los Angeles, including first place overall team. Mia Sketeris received the Gavel Winner award.

- Brad Haugaard 

A Moment in Monrovia History: New Homes in Hidden Valley

New homes being built in Hidden Valley in 1979. (North on Alta Vista, left on Cloverleaf and you'll run into Hidden Valley.) 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

Water district March workshops - Native Plant Landscaping, and Outdoor Leak Detection

The water district also has this new logo.

The Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District is offering two workshops in March.

A virtual workshop on California Friendly Native Plant Landscaping, Tuesday, March 4 from 6-7 p.m. Register here. 

An in-person workshop on Outdoor Leak Detection, Thursday, March 20, 6-7 p.m. at water district office, 248 E. Foothill Blvd. #100, in Monrovia. Register here.

- Brad Haugaard

Here is what is planned for the renovation of Recreation Park

Here's what the city is planning for the renovation of Recreation Park (on Shamrock). The proposal (here) will come up before the Development Review Committee at its March 5 meeting (agenda here).

Improved access and usability.

New amphitheater/outdoor classroom.

Beginner’s skate park.

Fitness area with permeable surfaces and bench seating.

ADA-accessible path.

Tennis courts reconfigured with new pickleball courts, improved lighting, and a shade structure.

Basketball courts enhanced.

Baseball field to receive new fencing, bleachers, shade structures, field lighting, scoreboard, and a soccer/baseball overlay.

New walking/running loop and interpretive garden featuring native, drought-tolerant plants.

Resurfaced and reconfigured parking lot with EV chargers, bioswales,.

Redesigned Constitution Circle with more picnic areas and parking.

Upgraded restrooms.

Upgraded playground equipment with a new shade structure.

Renovated picnic area with full coverage.

More benches, tables, wayfinding and interpretive signs, trash enclosures, walls, and fencing.

Landscaping and accessibility improvements park-wide.

Better access to the museum and all amenities.

- Brad Haugaard

Spring Adult Craft Night March 4 at Library

On March 4, from 6-7 p.m., adults and teens can participate in a monthly arts and crafts program at the Library. Participants can use a variety of supplies such as planters, jars, picture frames, canvases, yarn, and paint. Register here. Email afisher@monroviaca.gov or call 256-8273 for more information.

- Brad Haugaard

Children's Storytime at Library March 5

Storytime for children March 5 from 10-11 a.m. at the Library. For children ages 2-5. Stories, songs, sensory activities, and a craft project. An adult must accompany children; drop-offs not permitted. Email asimpson@monroviaca.gov or call 256-8269 for details.

- Brad Haugaard

Trivia Night at the Library March 7

The Monrovia Public Library will host a trivia night on March 7, from 5:30-7 p.m. Questions about pop culture, history, science, and movies, as well as snacks. Register here. Email cescobedo@monroviaca.gov or call 256-8265 for details.

- Brad Haugaard

Current Local Job Opportunities - March

Here are links to the latest job opportunities for Monrovia:

Monrovia School District 

City of Monrovia 

Private 

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Today magazine is out

The new Monrovia Today magazine is out. Here is the digital version. All sorts of activities and programs.

- Brad Haugaard

Volunteers sought for city boards and commissions

Monrovia is looking for volunteers to serve on the Planning Commission, Historic Preservation Commission, Community Services Commission, Monrovia Old Town Advisory Board, and Library Board. Detailed descriptions here.  Application deadline is May 1. Call City Hall at 932-5599 for further information.

- Brad Haugaard

Historic walking tour of downtown Monrovia Saturday, March 1

The Monrovia Historic Preservation Group will host another historic walking tour of downtown Monrovia tomorrow, March 1, at 10 a.m. Meet at the southeast corner of Palm and Myrtle Avenue. The tour lasts about two hours and costs $5 per person.

- Brad Haugaard