Storytime for ages 2–5 on Jan. 7 from 10 to 11 a.m. in the Library Story Room. Stories, songs, and a craft or sensory activity to build vocabulary, comprehension, and fine motor skills. Adult participation required. Details.
- Brad Haugaard
Storytime for young children at Library, Jan 7
Storytime for ages 2–5 on Jan. 7 from 10 to 11 a.m. in the Library Story Room. Stories, songs, and a craft or sensory activity to build vocabulary, comprehension, and fine motor skills. Adult participation required. Details.
City looking for accomplishments to highlight for State of the City Address
The city is prepping for the State of the City address and is looking for accomplishments to highlight. Residents may submit noteworthy accomplishments from local schools, non-profits, churches, or other organizations. Milestones, awards, recognitions, and completed projects are welcome. Email submissions to Jocelyn Casas at jcasas@monroviaca.gov by Jan. 8, 2026.
- Brad Haugaard
New California law will permit taller residential buildings near train station
A new California law will override local zoning beginning July 1, 2026 and require many cities to allow taller residential development near train stations. For Monrovia that could mean buildings up to seven or eight stories next to the train station.
The law provides two tiers, with Monrovia falling under Tier 2, which allows buildings up to:
- 85 feet (about 7 or 8 stories) on properties immediately adjacent to a station.
- 65 feet (about 5 or 6 stories) within a quarter-mile of the station.
- 55 feet (about 4 or 5 stories) between a quarter-mile and half-mile of the station.
The Monrovia station is "light rail," not "commuter rail," a distinction drawn in the bill, and therefore does not fall in the Tier 1 category, which allows even higher buildings.
The law also requires that approximately 7 to 13 percent of units in residential projects of 10 units or more be reserved for lower-income households. Full details in the bill, here.
- Brad Haugaard
Coming Up in Monrovia
Free adoption for big dogs and adult cats through Dec. 31
Noon Years Eve in Library Park, Dec. 31
Craft a stuffed bear, for adults, at the library, Jan. 6
Trivia Night for adults at Library, Jan. 9
Auditions for San Gabriel Valley Choral Company Jan. 6, 13
Ribbon cutting for the city’s 9th park set for Jan. 13
- Brad Haugaard
Merry Christmas, Monrovia!
Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2:8-11)
- Brad Haugaard
Calm, steady Achilles wants his own family for Christmas
Achilles is a 4-year-old black German Shepherd whose calm confidence and gentle nature make him the perfect companion for both winter adventures and cozy days at home! Whether he’s hiking, riding calmly in the car, or soaking up attention from admirers, Achilles brings a steady, comforting energy wherever he goes.
On a recent field trip, he handled a very busy trail like a pro — calmly walking alongside another dog, ignoring bikes, kids, crowds, and even a horse, all while happily taking treats and responding to verbal cues. He’s affectionate and gentle, leaning in for pets and chest scratches, and truly lives up to his reputation as a big cuddly bear.
This holiday season, Achilles would love nothing more than a family to call his very own. If you’re hoping to celebrate the holiday season with a loyal, loving best friend by your side, consider adopting Achilles and giving him the forever home he deserves. There’s no better time to adopt: during the Home for the Holidays campaign (Dec. 14-31), adoption fees for large dogs, like Achilles, will be waived.
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.
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.
- Brad Haugaard
A Moment in Monrovia History: A bright and happy Christmas from 1899!
An 1899 Christmas gift card with gifts noted on back: "Mrs. Dexter = apron. Yetta = Handkerchief. Emma = Handkerchief." The card is tradmarked "Raphael Tuck & Sons Ltd. Publishers to Their Majesties the King & Queen." From the Steve Baker 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
Monrovia gets 5.9-acre hillside Christmas present from Pokrajac family
Showing the Big M on the Monrovia hillside.
The City Council will consider accepting a gift from the Pokrajac family, which wants to give Monrovia a big Christmas present - 5.19 acres of hillside property which includes the "Big M" on the hillside that is lit for Monrovia High games. The M was constructed by Monrovia High Class of 1952.
The property, part of a larger parcel of about 26.09 acres, is near the Hillside Wilderness Preserve and would be incorporated into the preserve. The staff report says that the city will "develop a maintenance and repair plan for the M to ensure this local landmark is well maintained into the future, and will continue discussions with the Pokrajac family to potentially acquire additional property that could be added to the City’s HWP." Details.
- Brad Haugaard
Auditions for San Gabriel Valley Choral Company Jan. 6, 13
- Vocal exercises and range check
- Brief sight singing and part learning exercise
- Prepared song (up to 2 minutes, a capella)
- Brad Haugaard
Christmas on Valmont
If you haven’t seen the Christmas lights display on Valmont Drive, it is well worth a visit. It’s almost like going through a tunnel of lights. Drive north on Norumbega from Foothill until you see Valmont on your left. It’s hard to miss but, if you cross a bridge, you’ve gone just a little bit too far.
- Brad Haugaard
Trivia Night for adults at Library, Jan. 9
Movie Trivia Night for adults, Jan. 9 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the Library Community Room. Test your knowledge on pop culture, science, and movies. Includes snacks, prizes, and a raffle. Registration required. Details.
- Brad Haugaard
Free play for young children at the Library Dec. 23
Stay and Play offers an open playtime for children to age 5 and their caregivers with educational toys provided by the Library. Dec. 23 from 10 to 11 a.m. in the Story Room. Adults must participate with their children. Registration not required. Details.
- Brad Haugaard
Tree planting through central Monrovia in January and February
- Brad Haugaard
How to recycle Christmas lights and Christmas trees
Christmas trees, on the other hand can be placed curbside - ornament-free - between Dec. 27 and Jan. 10.
Comment: I still think its foolish to make the Postal Service a trash disposal mechanism. How about the city have a collection bin and then ship all the lights in one big box. It'd probably save a lot on postage.
- Brad Haugaard
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