Low-key, low-bark Brodie is a perfect gentleman ... mostly. But leave food out of reach


At 13 years young, Brodie is proof that age is just a number. This easygoing Lab mix is an absolute sweetheart who’s mastered the art of companionship. He’s low-key and calm, happiest when he’s lounging nearby, enjoying gentle pets, or heading out for a comfortable stroll around the block. Brodie walks nicely on leash, has excellent mobility for his age, and still gets a spark of joy from sniffing adventures and the occasional squirrel chase. He’s fully house-trained, adjusts easily to new routines, and rarely barks—making him a wonderfully peaceful housemate.

Brodie is extremely food motivated and absolutely lights up for treats, snuffle mats, and puzzle toys. He may pass on traditional toys, but give him a brain game with snacks involved, and he’s all in! He bonds quickly to people and loves snuggles, often content to simply rest by your side. He may have some hearing loss, but he responds well to hand signals and doesn’t let it slow him down one bit.

Brodie isn’t a fan of car rides and has been known to counter surf if tasty treasures are left within reach, but those are small quirks in an otherwise near-perfect gentleman. If you’re looking for a calm, affectionate, devoted companion to share your couch and your heart, Brodie is ready to meet you.

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

A Moment in Monrovia History: Ford dealership on Huntington Drive

Advertising post card for Miller Ford Sales, at 147 E. Huntington Drive, on the north side of the street a block east of Myrtle at Ivy. Probably from the early 1960s. 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

Chili's restaurant plans a facelift


Chili's restaurant plans a facelift to its restaurant on Huntington Drive. The city's Design Review Committee (agenda here) will consider the plan at its next meeting. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Dunkin' Donuts restaurant coming to Monrovia


A drive-through Dunkin' Donuts restaurant is apparently going to replace the Yoshinoya restaurant in the shopping center at Huntington and Shamrock. The company's remodel plan, which also includes space for another tenant, will come before the city's Design Review Committee at its next meeting. Details

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia company to auction off estate of Joanna Carson, wife of talk-show host Johnny Carson

Monrovia's John Moran Auctioneers will auction off the estate of philanthropist Joanna Carson, wife of former late-night talk show host, Johnny Carson. The auction will be held on March 3, and will feature more than 400 lots from Carson's collection. Details

- Brad Haugaard

Children's seminar on living with bears, Feb. 28


Bear Aware program teaches children about living safely alongside black bears. Feb. 28, 2 to 3 p.m., Story Room at the Library. For ages 6-11. Photos, games, and hands-on activities show what bears eat, how they survive, and how people and bears share space. Registration required. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Veterans and service members' coffee meetup, Feb. 24


Veterans and military service members gather 6 to 7 p.m. at Starbucks, Huntington and Magnolia, to connect. Opportunity to schedule appointments with a Veterans Service Officer or Veterans Peer Access Network representative. Free coffee. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Library adds adult Chinese-language books


The Monrovia Library has introduced a new Adult Chinese Language Collection featuring fiction and nonfiction. Novels, memoirs, history, and other works.

- Brad Haugaard

The world of tomatoes - at next Garden Club meeting

The topic for the next Monrovia Garden Club meeting will be on growing and enjoying diverse tomato varieties. Feb. 23 at the Fellowship Hall of the Monrovia Community Church (former First Presbyterian) at Myrtle and Foothill. Social time 6:30 p.m., program 7 p.m. Bring a snack to share. Coffee, tea, and water provided.

- Brad Haugaard


Gayle Montgomery Celebration of Life Set for Feb. 20

A celebration of Life ceremony for local community advocate Gayle Montgomery will be held Friday, Feb. 20, 12 to 4 p.m., at the Monrovia Community Center. The community is invited to honor her life, share memories, and reflect. Purple and indigo encouraged. Guests may come and go. Children’s activities and food provided.

- Brad Haugaard

County Proposes Sewer Rate Hikes that would affect Monrovia

LA County is proposing sewer rate hikes for area sanitation districts, including districts 15 and 22, which serve Monrovia. Changes would roll out over five years beginning July 1. Public information meetings and hearings are scheduled through May. See rates and meeting dates here.

- Brad Haugaard

Draft plan to minimize risks to city available for comment

A draft Hazard Mitigation Plan outlining local wildfire, flood, and earthquake risks is available for  review. The plan details strategies to protect lives, reduce damage, and strengthen community resilience. Residents may review and comment through Feb. 24 here

I asked an AI system to highlight the main hazards facing the city. Among those it identified these struck me as most important:

Earthquake: Monrovia is located near active faults, such as the Raymond Fault and Puente Hills Fault, posing risks of severe ground shaking, liquefaction, structural damage, casualties, and disruption of services.

Slope Failure: The city's location along the southern slopes of the San Gabriel Mountains makes it vulnerable to landslides, debris flows, and rockfalls, especially during heavy rainfall, post-wildfire conditions, or seismic events.

Dam Failure: Six upstream dams, including the Sawpit Reservoir dam, pose a risk of catastrophic flooding in the event of failure, impacting downstream populations and infrastructure.

Wildfire: The wildland-urban interface areas in northern Monrovia are highly vulnerable to wildfires due to dense vegetation, steep terrain, and prolonged drought conditions.

Brad Haugaard

Home repair grants available for low to moderate income homeowners

Some federal money is available for low- to moderate-income Monrovia homeowners for safety repairs such as roofs, heating, plumbing, and accessibility; also for deterioration prevention and quality improvements. Guidelines here and eligibility form here.

- Brad Haugaard

President's Day closures, adjustments

City Hall, Public Works, Library, and Police and Fire administration offices will be closed on Monday, Feb. 16 for President's Day. Also, no street sweeping Feb. 16-20. Waste collection will continue on its regular schedule. 

Brad Haugaard

Police and fire associations now collecting for MHS student who lost parents


Monrovia Fire and Police Officers associations are accepting Venmo donations at @MFFA2415 for Monrovia High School Meagan Cisneros, who lost both parents in the past two months. There is also a GoFundMe page for Megan, here, which has so far raised $48,540 of the target $50,000

- Brad Haugaard

Coming Up in Monrovia

Valentine's Day carriage rides from Library Park Feb. 14

Year of the Horse celebration, Feb. 17

Parks and youth sports fundraiser, Feb. 19

Teen Game Hangout at the Library, Feb. 20

Lenten fish fry at Knights of Columbus, Fridays, Feb. 20 to Apr. 3

Food Ed to bestow Golden Gnomie Awards, Feb. 20

Electric guitar for beginners, Feb. 21

Workshop on preserving fresh citrus, Feb. 21

Black History Month events, Feb. 21, 22

Hum Out Loud poetry reading Feb. 24

Veterans and service members' coffee meetup, Feb. 24

Children's seminar on living with bears, Feb. 28

Monrovia High to screen math documentary, March 10

New exhibit coming on 'How Transportation Shaped Monrovia,' April 30

- Brad Haugaard

City has much bigger than expected surplus; Council to consider giving itself a raise

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

~ Receive the 2025-26 Budget Update, which says that the city is in pretty good financial shape. It was expecting a surplus of $870,000 but ended up with a surplus of $2.63 million, although $1.06 million of that was from a lawsuit settlement over per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances, long-lasting chemical contaminants.

Also, the report says that while "the city remains in a stable financial position, uncertainty persists in the broader economy," specifically referring to tariffs, federal funding freezes, and changes in federal enforcement activities. Details.

~ Consider giving itself (and the city clerk and city treasurer) a cost of living increase for last year and this year, from $1,275 to $1,359 per month. Details

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Stinkin Crawfish


Dinner at Stinkin’ Crawfish, on the north side of Colorado about a half block east of Myrtle. Got a half pound of shrimp for $12.25, with an egg for $1.75, and coleslaw for $2.95, plus a beer for  $6.75. Messy eating out of the bag, but very good.

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: Catalytic converter thieves spotted but escape; Attempted home break-in foiled; Statewide theft suspects arrested; Missing person arrested; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for February 5 - 11, 2026. 568 calls for service, 96 investigations, 0 mental evaluations, 7 traffic collisions, 19 arrests. - Brad Haugaard]

FEBRUARY 5

Municipal Code Violation / Drug Offense – Suspects Arrested
At 3:26 a.m., while patrolling the 300 block of S. Myrtle, officers saw three subjects in a park after hours. One subject was found to be in possession of a controlled substance. He was arrested, cited, and released at the scene. A second subject was also arrested, cited, and released at the scene. A third subject had been cited multiple times for being in the park after hours. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Weapon Offense / Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested
At 3:38 a.m., an officer patrolling the area of Myrtle and Mountain 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 fixed blade knife and a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
At 8:55 a.m., an officer was flagged down in the 900 block of W. Foothill regarding a theft at a business. Officers located the suspect a short distance way. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
At 4:23 p.m., a family disturbance was reported in the 100 block of W. Colorado. Officers arrived and made contact with the parties involved. An investigation revealed a female resident battered her spouse. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Public Intoxication
At 5:44 p.m., a caller in the 100 block of N. Canyon reported a subject lying on the ground. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject. An investigation revealed he was heavily intoxicated and unable to care for himself. He was transported to a hospital for medical treatment.

Shoplifting
At 7:09 p.m., an officer responded to a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington regarding a shoplifting incident. An investigation revealed a female subject entered the business, concealed merchandise and left without paying. This investigation is continuing.

FEBRUARY 6

Petty Theft – Suspect Arrested
At 12:38 a.m., a caller in the 800 block of E. Central reported a suspicious male subject at an auto dealership. Officers arrived and located the male subject in possession of stolen property. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested
At 2:46 a.m., officers contacted a male subject to the rear of a business in the 700 block of W. Chestnut. During the contact, officers found the subject in possession of nitrous oxide with the intent to inhale it. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested
At 3:20 a.m., an officer contacted a male subject inside a park after hours in the 1600 block of S. Myrtle. During the contact, the subject was found to be in possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. The subject was arrested.

Vandalism
At 9:04 a.m., tagging was reported on a wall in the area of the 210 freeway and Magnolia. The graffiti was photographed and an order was sent for its removal. This investigation is continuing.

Vandalism
At 9:08 a.m., an officer patrolling the 900 block of S. Primrose saw graffiti on a wall. The graffiti was photographed and an order was sent for its removal. This investigation is continuing.

Receiving Stolen Property / Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested
At 7:35 p.m., while patrolling the 200 block of W. Pomona, an officer saw a bicyclist commit a traffic violation. A traffic stop was conducted and the bicyclist was contacted. He was found to be in possession of stolen property and a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Trespass / Vehicle Tampering – Suspect Arrested
At 10:34 p.m., officers responded to a dealership in the 700 block of E. Central regarding a suspicious male subject checking door handles. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject. He was arrested and taken into custody after an infestation was conducted.

FEBRUARY 7

Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested
At 4:45 a.m., while patrolling the 300 block of W. Huntington officers saw a suspicious male subject near a closed restaurant and made contact with him. An investigation revealed he was in possession of a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Vandalism
At 9:39 a.m., a caller in the 1200 block of S. Shamrock reported a vandalism incident. The graffiti was photographed and an order was sent for its removal. This investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
At 1:14 p.m., a victim in the 100 block of S. Mountain reported that her vehicle window was shattered and a bag was taken. This investigation is continuing.

Theft – Suspects Arrested
At 3:09 p.m., an employee from a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington reported a shoplifting in progress. Officers arrived and made contact with the suspects. An investigation revealed two female subjects stole merchandise and fled without paying. It was determined they were both involved in numerous thefts throughout the state. They were arrested, cited, and released at the scene.

Vandalism
At 5:23 p.m., a resident in the 500 block of Falling Leaf Alley reported graffiti in a parking structure. Officers arrived and submitted an order for removal. This investigation is continuing.

FEBRUARY 8

Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested
At 1:28 a.m., while patrolling the 1600 block of S. Myrtle officers saw two subjects in a park after hours and made contact with them. An investigation revealed one of the subject’s was in possession of drug paraphernalia and the other was in possession of a controlled substance. They were both arrested and taken into custody.

Grand Theft
At 4:17 a.m., a caller in the area of Concord and Alta Vista reported two male subjects underneath a parked vehicle sawing off a catalytic converter. The subjects were gone prior to officers’ arrival. This investigation is continuing.

FEBRUARY 9

Attempt Burglary
At 1:22 a.m., a resident in the 800 block of Ocean View reported three subjects attempted to break into his home. Officers arrived and discovered that the suspects fled when the resident yelled at the suspects. This investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft
At 2:41 p.m., a loss prevention officer for a business in the 700 block of Huntington reported a male subject entered and fled with merchandise. Officers arrived and were unable to locate the subject. This investigation is continuing.

Vandalism
At 5:47 p.m., a victim in the 700 block Royal Oaks reported an unknown subject damaged his vehicle’s windshield. This investigation is continuing.

FEBRUARY 10

No significant incidents to report.

FEBRUARY 11

Attempted Residential Burglary – Suspects Arrested

At 4:28 a.m., officers were dispatched to an apartment complex in the 200 block of W.
Pomona regarding two subjects attempting to break into a security room. Officers arrived and located both subjects. They were arrested and taken into custody.

Vehicle Burglary

At 1:06 p.m., a victim in the 100 block of W. Cherry reported a vehicle burglary. This
investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft

At 2:45 p.m., a resident in the 100 block of N. Magnolia reported that a neighbor took
fencing from his property and used it on his property. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto

At 5:42 p.m., a vehicle theft was reported by a resident in the 100 block of N. Myrtle. This
investigation is continuing.

Trespass / Missing Person Located – Suspects Arrested

At 6:43 p.m., officers were dispatched to a vacant residence in the 200 block of Fig.
Officers arrived and made contact with a male and female subject inside. A computer search revealed the female subject had been reported missing. They were both arrested and taken into custody and she was removed from the missing person system.

Get bottle deposit refunds now at Foothill Unity Center

Foothill Unity Center is now accepting CRV (California Redemption Value) beverage containers, generally those made of aluminum, glass, plastic. Turn them in for a refund. The Center's recycling partner is located in the center's east parking lot in front of its warehouse at 790 W. Chestnut on Fridays,  7 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Saturdays, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Park on the street from 9 to 11:30 a.m. on Fridays as that is also a distribution time.

- Brad Haugaard

New exhibit coming on 'How Transportation Shaped Monrovia,' April 30


The Monrovia Historical Museum will be unveiling a new exhibit called "Engines of Change... How Transportation Shaped Monrovia on April 30 from 4-6 p.m.

- Brad Haugaard

Raising Cane's donates $15,589 for dog rescue


Raising Cane’s donates $15,589 to Pup Culture Rescue at its Monrovia restaurant.

Raising Cane's donated $15,589 to Pup Culture Rescue yesterday from proceeds from its sold-out Plush Puppy campaign from 26 area Raising Cane's restaurants. The Pasadena-based nonprofit will use the funds for spay and neuter services, vaccinations, microchips, food, and shelter for about 50 dogs each month.

The local campaign was part of a nationwide effort that raised $500,000, including $100,000 for BISSELL Pet Foundation and support for nearly 200 pet welfare groups. Raising Cane’s said the annual promotion has generated more than $10 million for animal causes since 2006.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovians being filmed about 'co-thriving' with bears

Monrovians Brian Gordon and Rick Martinez, who have made friends with a momma bear and her cubs, are the subject of a film being produced on "co-thriving" with bears. Details (behind a subscription wall).  You can see their videos on YouTube, here

- Brad Haugaard

Seeds of Hope luncheon honors community heroes


Foothill Unity Center will honor community heroes at its Seeds of Hope luncheon at Courtyard Marriott, Mar. 26, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The program includes harp music, a plated lunch, and honoree recognition. Proceeds support neighbors in need. Admission $45; sponsorships from $450 to $5,000. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Rolo is confident, bold, playful ... and just a bit silly


Rolo is basically a box of chocolates — where you’ll never stop being delighted, and every moment is pure sweetness! This 2-year-old German Shepherd mix at Pasadena Humane is affectionate to his core. He’s confident, bold, playful, and just the right amount of silly. A foster field trip favorite, Rolo has an amazing demeanor whether he’s cuddling close to you or heading out for a 5-mile hike (yes, 5 miles!). Around town, he’s a perfect gentleman: he loves strolling through Old Town Pasadena, popping into a dog bakery for a sweet treat, making new doggy friends, and sniffing around Huntington Ambassador Park while keeping an eye on those funny squirrels.

Rolo is guaranteed to make your heart melt. He truly seems in love with life and is ready to share that love with his forever person. Fall head over heels this weekend during Pasadena Humane’s Swipe Right Adoption promotion, happening February 13–15, where all adoptions (including Rolo’s) are just $14. Skip the candy and treat yourself to something even sweeter - adopt Rolo and make this Valentine’s one to remember!

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

A Moment in Monrovia History: The Planet, one of Monrovia's early newspapers

A photo of the home of an early Monrovia newspaper, The Planet, located on Lemon. Published in 1933 by the Monrovia News-Post for Monrovia's 47th birthday. 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

Electric guitar for beginners, Feb. 21


Beginner electric guitar workshop for adults and teens at the Library. An introductory class covering basic chords and simple songs, with instruments provided and personal guitars welcome. For adults and teens ages 16 and up. Sat., Feb. 21, 2 to 3 p.m. Registration required. Details

- Brad Haugaard

Teen Game Hangout at the Library, Feb. 20


Teen gaming drop-in offers an afternoon of console, tabletop, and casual play. The program runs Friday, Feb. 20, 3 to 4:30 p.m., in the Community Room at the Library. Nintendo Switch games, Beyblades, and board games available. Open to grades 7–12. No registration required. Details

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia High to screen math documentary, March 10


Monrovia High School will show the documentary film, Counted Out, on March 10. It is about the importance of math. Trailer here. Counted Out website here.

- Brad Haugaard

Workshop on preserving fresh citrus


A hands-on workshop on preserving fresh citrus for home use will be held Saturday, Feb. 21, 10 to 11 a.m. at the Community Center. Food ED will present simple food-preservation methods to extend backyard harvests. RSVP here

 - Brad Haugaard

Food Ed to bestow Golden Gnomie Awards


Food ED will celebrate its fifth birthday with an evening honoring its volunteers with Golden Gnomie awards, Friday, Feb. 20, 6 to 9 p.m., St. Luke’s Episcopal Church Swan Hall, 122 California Ave. Fifth Tickets $50 here; dinner and drinks included.

- Brad Haugaard

Parks and youth sports fundraiser


Monrovia Parks, Wilderness, & Recreation Foundation will hold a fundraiser to support its parks and youth projects. Feb. 19, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Panda Express, 682 W. Huntington Dr. Dine in, order online, or use the app. Show the flyer (here) in person or enter code 3855309 online. Twenty percent of sales benefit foundation. 

 - Brad Haugaard

Year of the Horse celebration


Oasis Trilingual Community School, 429 E. Wildrose, will hold a free Lunar New Year celebration on Tuesday, Feb. 17, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. to welcome the Year of the Horse. Crafts, snacks, games, music, performances, traditional red envelopes. Open to residents and families. For information ca;; 285-8262. 

 - Brad Haugaard

Financial aid sought for student who lost both mother and father


Monrovia High School student Megan Cisneros lost both her father, then two months later, on Feb. 4, her mother as well. A GoFundMe page, here, has been established for those wishing to help the family financially. It seeks to raise $35,000, of which $25,871 has already been raised from 204 donors. 

- Brad Haugaard

Black History Month events


Here are upcoming Black History Month events:
  • Feb. 12, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Children’s Art Festival, Community Center
  • Feb. 21, 2 to 4 p.m., storytelling and crafts, Library
  • Feb. 22, 2 to 4 p.m., luncheon, Community Center
  • Mar. 22, 2 to 4 p.m., Jones sisters program, Duarte Historical Museum, 777 Encanto Pkwy.
- Brad Haugaard

City Council has reviewed proposed interior upgrades to Library


At a recent study session, the City Council discussed expanding the Library's children’s wing, which would nearly triple the Storytime Room to 2,000 square feet, adding storage for tables and chairs, and increasing private study rooms.

- Brad Haugaard

SoCal Edison to use drones for aerial inspections


Southern California Edison will use drones and helicopters to conduct aerial inspections of Monrovia neighborhoods in the next few weeks to reduce wildfire risk. Inspections will last 30–60 minutes, as crews examine poles and towers from multiple angles to spot damage or potential hazards and determine needed repairs. Details

- Brad Haugaard

Guided walking tour explores downtown history


A two-hour historic walking tour of Monrovia's historic downtown will be led by the Monrovia Historic Preservation Group on Sat., Feb. 7, 10 a.m.. Tour begins at the southeast corner of Palm and Myrtle.  $5 per person. Highlights include the 1909 Library Park drinking fountain and its preservation story.

- Brad Haugaard

Coming Up in Monrovia

Chamber Awards Gala themed 'Old Hollywood', Feb. 6

Pet Valentine and photo event at Sierra Subaru, Feb. 7

Reading and nature for children to age 5, Feb. 7

Guided walking tour explores downtown history, Feb. 7

State of the City event moves to Monrovia High School, Feb. 10

Lego free play at the Library, Feb. 11

Wine, beer and painting for veterans at Library, Feb. 12

Valentine's Day carriage rides from Library Park Feb. 14

Lenten fish fry at Knights of Columbus, Fridays, Feb. 20 to Apr. 3

Hum Out Loud poetry reading Feb. 24

- Brad Haugaard

School Board to consider policy limiting cooperation with immigration authorities

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

~  Establishing a policy that would generally withhold information or campus access from immigration officials unless required by law, warrant, subpoena, or written consent. However, staff would be instructed not to obstruct officers, even if the staff member believes the officer is exceeding what is authorized. Details here and here.

~  Proclaiming February as Black History Month, Career and Technical Education Month, and to recognize Feb. 2-6 as National School Counseling Week.

To celebrate Black History Month, there will be an Elementary Art Festival on Feb. 12 at the Community Center, a Black History Month event at 1:50 p.m. on Feb. 18 at Clifton Middle School, and another at 1:50 p.m. on Feb. 25 at Santa Fe Computer Magnet School.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Brother-in-law vehicle assault; Vehicle stop nets drugs, magazine; Gift card piano scam; Grand theft auto foot chase; Indecent exposure at park; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 29 – February 4, 2026. 470 calls for service, 76 investigations, 5 mental evaluations, 5 traffic collisions, 14 arrests. - Brad Haugaard]

JANUARY 29

Grand Theft
At 11:59 a.m., an employee from a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain reported a theft. Officers arrived and determined a male subject took her cellphone and an employee was able to retrieve the phone. The subject was gone prior to officers’ arrival. This investigation is continuing.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon
At 1:35 p.m., a victim in the 500 block of E. Olive reported his brother-in-law attempted to run him over. The suspect was gone prior to officers’ arrival. This investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
At 4:52 p.m., a shoplifting incident was reported in a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington. Officers arrived and located the suspect still in possession of the merchandise. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Fight
At 5:07 p.m., multiple callers in the area of Myrtle and Colorado reported a fight. Officers arrived and made contact with multiple subjects. An investigation revealed that an intoxicated male subject started a fight with a father and son. The father and son held the subject until officers arrived, but refused prosecution. The subject was transported to a hospital due to his level of intoxication.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
At 5:18 p.m., a caller in the 600 block of S. Mountain reported a male and female subject fighting. Officers arrived and located the subjects. An investigation revealed the male subject hit the female subject during an argument. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
At 6:48 p.m., an employee from a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington reported a shoplifting incident. Officers arrived and located the subject nearby. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Resisting Arrest – Suspect Arrested
At 10:51 p.m., an individual trespassing was reported at an apartment complex in the 200 block of W. Pomona. Officers arrived and located the female subject attempting to access the property without authorization. The officers made contact with her, but she was providing false information and began to resist arrest. Further investigation revealed she had a warrant for her arrest. She was arrested and taken into custody.

JANUARY 30

Drug Offense / Weapon Arrest – Suspect Arrested
At 3:40 a.m., an officer patrolling the area of Myrtle and Brisbane saw a vehicle in violation of a vehicle code. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was contacted. An investigation revealed the driver was in possession of a controlled substance and a magazine. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Grand Theft Auto
At 11:58 a.m., a victim in the 300 block of Valle Vista reported his vehicle stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested
At 1:41 p.m., a caller in the 1600 block of S. Myrtle reported a suspicious male subject at a park. Officers arrived and made contact with the male subject. An investigation revealed he was in possession of a controlled substance and multiple warrants. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
At 10:24 p.m., a resident in the 900 block of Royal Oaks reported a neighbor trespassed onto their property for a fourth time, after the neighbor had been advised. Officers arrived and made contact with the parties involved. The neighbor was arrested and taken into custody.

JANUARY 31

Domestic Violence / Battery – Suspect Arrested
At 12:32 p.m., a family disturbance was reported in the 500 block of Almond. Officers arrived and made contact with the parties involved. An investigation revealed the suspect battered his wife and her father. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested
At 8:45 p.m., while patrolling the area of Monrovista and California an officer saw a vehicle commit a vehicle code violation. A traffic stop was conducted and the occupants were contacted. An investigation revealed the passenger was in possession of a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Grand Theft
At 9:18 p.m., officers responded to a restaurant in the 500 block of W. Huntington regarding a theft. An investigation revealed the victim left her purse on a table and left the location, when she returned the purse was already gone. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto Recovery
At 11:26 p.m., a victim in the 100 block of N. Myrtle reported their vehicle stolen. The victim’s vehicle was located and recovered later that day by a different agency in San Bernardino County. This investigation is continuing.

FEBRUARY 1

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
At 8:26 p.m., a loss prevention officer for a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington reported a female subject walked into the business, grabbed merchandise, and exited without paying. Officers arrived and located the female subject walking to a waiting vehicle, in possession of the stolen merchandise. Both subjects were arrested and taken into custody.

FEBRUARY 2

Fraud / Scam
At 9:02 a.m., a victim in the 300 block of Heather Heights reported being defrauded. The investigation revealed the victim responded to an advertisement for a piano listed for sale. The victim was instructed to make payment using gift cards. After providing the suspect with the gift card information, the victim realized the advertisement was a scam. This investigation is continuing.

Assault – Suspect Arrested
At 1:46 p.m., several callers in the area of Myrtle and Central reported two male subjects were fighting. Officers arrived and made contact with the parties involved. An investigation revealed one of the subject’s was the aggressors. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested
At 1:46 p.m., officers in the 100 block of W. Central were approached by a male subject who was in possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Fraud
At 7:53 p.m., a resident in the 700 block of Oakdale reported that he received mail suggesting that an unknown subject was using his identifying information to gain employment. This investigation is continuing.

FEBRUARY 3

Shoplifting
At 9:04 a.m., a loss prevention officer for a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain reported a male subject stole merchandise and left without paying. This investigation is continuing.

Theft by False Pretenses
At 9:25 a.m., a business owner in the 900 block of Norumbega reported a theft. An investigation revealed the employer received an email from an employee requesting her check be deposited in a new account. It was determined the email was not sent by the employee; it was sent by an unknown suspect. This investigation is continuing.

Theft – Suspect Arrested
At 2:43 p.m., an employee from a store in the 700 block of E. Huntington reported a female subject was concealing merchandise. Officers arrived and located the female subject walking out of the store with the concealed merchandise. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
At 11:10 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 300 block of W. Duarte regarding an unknown disturbance. Officers arrived and made contact with the parties involved. An investigation revealed a wife and husband were involved in a verbal argument, the sons asked the husband to leave and were involved in a fight. None of the parties desired prosecution. The husband was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

FEBRUARY 4

Grand Theft
February 4, at 6:54 p.m., a victim reported personal belongings were stolen from a locker in a business in the 500 block of S. Mountain. This investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft
At 8:02 p.m., a citizen reported that while she was shopping inside a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington someone stole her cell phone from inside of her purse. This investigation is continuing.

Municipal Code Violation / Drug Activity – Suspect Arrested
At 3:26 a.m., officers patrolling the 300 block of S. Myrtle saw three subjects at a park after hours, in violation of a municipal code. One of the subjects’ was found to be in possession of a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Weapon Offense – Suspect Arrested
At 3:38 a.m., while patrolling the area of Myrtle and Mountain an officer 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 knife and a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Grand Theft Auto / Resisting Arrest– Suspect Arrested
At 7:05 a.m., a victim in the 300 block of W. Duarte reported her vehicle stolen. While an officer was conducting their investigation the suspect returned. As officers were attempting to apprehend the suspect, he fled on foot. The suspect and the victim’s vehicle were located. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Indecent Exposure – Suspect Arrested
At 8:22 a.m., a witness in the 300 block of S. Myrtle reported an undressed female subject at a park. Officers arrived and the female subject had already put clothes on. The witness requested a citizen’s arrest. The female subject was arrested, cited, and released at the scene.

Vandalism
At 9:08 a.m., a caller in the 1300 block of S. Myrtle reported a business’ wall had graffiti. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
At 11:00 a.m., a resident in the area of Greystone and Valle Vista reported tools were stolen from his unlocked work vehicle. This investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
At 12:27 p.m., a victim in the 200 block of W. Pomona reported her boyfriend threw her to the floor. Officers arrived and made contact with the parties involved. An investigation determined the male subject was the aggressor. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Runaway Juvenile
At 12:25 p.m., a mother in the 1800 block of Encino reported her juvenile son as a runaway. He was located and removed from the system.

Trader Joe's rated top for consumer satisfaction in country


Monrovia-based Trader Joe's supermarket has been rated the best in the country for consumer satisfaction by the American Consumer Satisfaction Index. Details

- Brad Haugaard

Poets invited to Hum Out Loud poetry event


Local poets are invited to join the Hum Out Loud poetry event at Monrovia High School on Feb. 24. There will be works by students, faculty, parents and community members. To participate, register here by Feb. 6. Email mhshumanitiesacademy@gmail.com for more information.

- Brad Haugaard

Breakfast at Peach Cafe


Had breakfast the other day at Peach Cafe, on the north side of Colorado near Ivy. Got the Nuts and Bolts (three eggs, bacon or sausage, toast, and hash browns or fruit) for $16.25 and a coffee for $3. Always good here. I especially love the bacon.

- Brad Haugaard

Unity Center needs volunteers to provide jackets to children

- Brad Haugaard

School Board votes to close Santa Fe as a middle school, but it will still be a school

Santa Fe Computer Science Magnet School will close as a middle school starting with next school year, 2026-2027, and middle school students will attend Clifton Middle School. At a special meeting last night the school board reversed an earlier decision to postpone closure in order to study the issue.

The closure is being implemented to address the expenditure reductions required by the Los Angeles County Office of Education in June 2024.

Though Santa Fe will close as a middle school, it will still be used as a school. The district does not plan to sell the property, but rather plans to move the smaller staff and students from Canyon Oaks High School and Mountain Park School to this location.

- Brad Haugaard

State of the City event moves to Monrovia High School


With the closing of LOOK theaters, the State of the City event is moving to the Louise Taylor Performing Arts Center (aka, the auditorium) at Monrovia High School. Tuesday, Feb. 10, reception at 6 p.m.; City Council presentation 7 p.m. More seating, plus food and popcorn. Open to all residents.

- Brad Haugaard

Lenten fish fry at Knights of Columbus, Fridays, Feb. 20 to Apr. 3


- Brad Haugaard 

Mellow Arlow is a sweetheart - but not a fan of rainy days


Arlo is a calm, loving pup with a soft heart and an easygoing spirit. He may get a little stressed in new situations (car rides and rainy days aren’t his favorite!), but he handles it all with quiet patience and a gentle outlook. Once he settles in, Arlo loves to relax, explore, and soak up the peaceful moments.

In his foster home, Arlo is a total sweetheart — respectful, well-mannered, and happy to simply be near his people. He enjoys sniffing around new spaces, naps on soft carpets, and meeting new friends with a calm, steady confidence. He’s also a great student: he’s started practicing crate time, learning loose-leash walking, and adjusting beautifully to new routines.

Arlo is the kind of dog who just wants to feel safe, warm, and loved. If you’re looking for a mellow, affectionate companion who will quietly brighten your days, Arlo might be the perfect match. And, he is available for a 10-day adoption trial!

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

A Moment in Monrovia History: A city map of 1908 - Recognize Banana Avenue?

Map of Monrovia from February 1908. Click to enlarge. If it's still too small, try this link. Do you recognize Banana, White Oak, JIC, Orange, Falling Leaf, or Santa Fe avenues? They have new names now. Map compliments of C.E. Slosson, Real Estate Dealer. Shows southern subdivisions with alphabetical streets Alta, Bonita, California, Diamond, El Dorado, Fano, Genoa. Also Pottenger Sanatorium Co., Sawpit Canyon, Sawpit Wash, Gold Hill. 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

LOOK Theater closes Monrovia location


Monrovia’s LOOK Theatre has closed. The management wrote, “Thank you Monrovia, We will miss you” on the marquee and this sign on the door:

Valued Guests,

LOOK Dine-In Cinemas has closed this location.

We would like to sincerely thank our guests for making this theater a meaningful part of the community. Your loyalty, support, and shared movie moments have meant a great deal to our team, and we are truly grateful for the memories created here over the years.

While this location has closed, we invite you to continue enjoying the LOOK experience at our nearby theater:

LOOK Dine-In Cinemas - Glendale
128 Artsakh Ave, Glendale, CA 91206

All LOOK Gift Cards and Infinity Club memberships will continue to be honored at our LOOK Glendale location. Any existing ticket purchases will be fully refunded. If you would prefer a refund for a gift card or Infinity membership, have questions, or need assistance, please contact our Guest Services department at: guest.services@lookcinemas.com.

Thank you again. We truly appreciate your support and look forward to welcoming you soon in Glendale.

- Brad Haugaard 

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