Monrovia Now: News and Comment about Monrovia, California

A Moment in Monrovia History: Businessmen orange pickers in 1943

Monrovia's merchants and professionals came to the aid of local orange growers during a harvesting manpower shortage in 1943, at the height of World War II. Top, on ladders, Everett J. Simonds, YMCA secretary, left, and Charles S. Dandridge, banker. Middle row, from left, Pro Elliott, grove owner; Jack Zelkowitz, shoe store owner; Alexander. R. Currie, retired produce executive; Stanley C. McClintic, Monrovia-Arcadia-Duarte (MAD) High vice principal; O. B. Hart, retired gold dredger; and the Rev. Haven Davis, minister. Bottom row, from left, Charles A. Wiley, cleaner; Ted McBratney, Old Town merchant; and Ed Hart, exchange manager. 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

Ridiculously good-looking Zoolander is also regal and affectionate

Meet Zoolander, a 5-year-old Doberman at Pasadena Humane with striking good looks and a personality to match. With his sleek build and regal presence, he definitely knows how to work his angles — you might even say he’s mastered “Blue Steel.” Some have even claimed he’s “really, really, really ridiculously good-looking.”

Zoolander is a friendly guy who enjoys spending time with his people. He’s easy to leash, knows how to sit for treats, and after taking a few minutes to explore and sniff his surroundings, he’s happy to come over for affection. He’s especially sweet in those quiet moments, like when he rests his head on your lap or leans in close for attention.

Like any good model, Zoolander likes to check out the scene first before settling in. Once he’s comfortable, his affectionate side shines through. He is an active guy who will benefit from a confident handler and continued guidance on leash.

If you’re looking for a handsome companion with heart, come meet Zoolander!

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 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 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

Monrovia firm secures county’s first permit for 3D-printed concrete home in Eaton fire zone

Monrovia's PCI Builders has received LA County’s first permit for a 3D concrete printed home in the Eaton fire zone. The company says its proprietary system prints walls in hours, improves energy efficiency, and lowers costs. Walls can be hand-finished for a traditional architectural look, while engineered corners achieve near 90-degree angles, avoiding the rounded profiles common in other printed systems. PCI founder and CEO Allison Allain said that, "The day after the fires, I began researching construction technologies that could help ensure this never happens again to my clients." Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Farewell storytime honors longtime children’s librarian, March 24

Farewell to children's librarian, Ms. Annette. March 24, 6 to 7 p.m., in the Library Community Room. “Happily Ever After Storytime with Ms. Annette” marks 32 years of stories, songs, and crafts for local families. Children and parents invited to celebrate and say goodbye as she begins a new chapter. All ages welcome. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Solar-themed storytime and activities at the Library, March 21

Solar Party takes place Saturday, March 21, 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the Library Park Fountain Area. Storytime, crafts, and hands-on STEAM activities focused on the sun. Free book while supplies last. For all ages. Registration required. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Monroe School counselor wins national honor

Monroe School counselor, Ms. Elliott, has received a national "Recognized ASCA Model Program designation" for her school counseling program, reflecting her commitment to students’ academic achievement, career readiness, and social-emotional well-being. The award recognizes programs that meet rigorous American School Counselor Association standards.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia named 'Tree City' by Arbor Day Foundation

Monrovia has again been recognized as a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation for 2025. The city currently maintains 8,390 trees and is planting 200 more between Huntington and Foothill. Residents in that area who want a city tree planted in the public right-of-way may contact Brittany Jasso at bjasso@monroviaca.gov or 932-5562.

- Brad Haugaard

Compostapalooza at Community Garden, Mar. 7

Monrovia Community Garden (at Magnolia and Colorado) will host a free Compostapalooza tomorrow, Mar. 7, from 9 a.m. to noon. Event includes free bulk compost donated by Athens Services, worm compost bin workshops (while supplies last), composting demonstrations, and garden-themed arts and crafts. Registered attendees are eligible for raffles and giveaways. Register here.

- Brad Haugaard

Applications open for city boards and commissions through May 1

Monrovia is accepting applications for its Planning Commission, Historic Preservation Commission, Community Services Commission, Library Board, and Monrovia Old Town Advisory Board through May 1. An informational meeting will be held at 6 p.m. April 9 at City Hall. Terms begin July 1. For questions call Deputy City Clerk Sarah Godinez at 932-5599. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Free spring veggie workshop at Community Garden South, Mar. 21

The Monrovia Community Garden South, next to Station Square Park, will host a free spring vegetable workshop on Mar. 21, 9-11 a.m. Free veggie starts available while supplies last. Parking at the free Park & Ride lot at 168 W. Pomona Ave.

- Brad Haugaard

Historic walking tour of downtown Monrovia, Mar. 7

The Monrovia Historic Preservation Group will conduct a two-hour walking tour of downtown Monrovia tomorrow, March 7, starting at 10 a.m. at the southeast corner of Myrtle and Palm Avenues. Cost is $5 per person.

- Brad Haugaard

AI for Small Business seminar planned for Mar. 9

AI for Small Business seminar will be held Mar. 9, 8:30-10 a.m. sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce ($20 members, $25 non-members). Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Huntington Drive work continues around Shamrock, California, and Primrose

The Huntington Drive Improvement Project continues the week of Mar. 9-13, with work at the intersections of Huntington Drive at Shamrock, California, and Primrose. Expect single-lane traffic, multi-day closures, and turn restrictions. Avoid Huntington and Shamrock if possible. Work is expected to last through April.

- Brad Haugaard

City considers $76 million bond for Community Center, Recreation Park, City Hall, Fire Station 102

City Manager Dylan Feik reports that the city is considering four capital improvement projects totaling roughly $76 million: a $32 million Community Center renovation, a $20 million Recreation Park upgrade, a $20 million City Hall renovation, and a $4 million Fire Station 102 renovation. The city would issue bonds that would be repaid using existing Measure K sales tax revenue, with no new taxes or fees for residents.

- Brad Haugaard