Goofy Cheeto is a pool-loving Lab mix with big silly energy

Uploaded ImageLooking for a goofy pool-loving adventure buddy? Meet Cheeto! This 1-year-old Labrador and Shar-Pei mix at Pasadena Humane is full of silly energy and loves bouncing between splashing in the kiddie pool, sniffing around for treats, carrying toys, and soaking up attention from anyone nearby. He's great on walks, loves a good foster field trip, and knows how to settle himself after playtime, happily taking breaks for pets and relaxation. Cheeto is curious, sweet, and wonderfully expressive—the kind of dog who keeps you laughing just by being himself.

From now through May 24th, adult dog adoption fees are waived during the "May I Go Home With You" adoption promo at Pasadena Humane, making adopting Cheeto easier than ever.

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: Almera Romney and her Huntington School class

Almera Romney and her Huntington Elementary fifth grade class in 1946. Romney was teacher and then principal at Huntington Elementary from 1946-1963. She fought for better conditions for the segregated school and advocated for integration. Standing next to Almera with a butterfly on her dress is Mimi Luvenia Martin (Mency, 1936-2011) who would be the first African American on the Monrovia school board in 1972. From the Susie Ling 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

City Council to discuss planning for 2028 Olympics

The City Council will hold a special meeting at 10 a.m. on May 21 at the Canyon Park Cabin to discuss planning for the 2028 Olympics. That, and to perform the standard evaluation (in closed session) of the performance of City Manager Dylan Feik. Source.

- Brad Haugaard

Boys & Girls Club rally honors Youth of the Year, May 31

The Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills will honor its 2026 Youth of the Year winners and community advocates at a Rally and Family Carnival at Recreation Park on Sunday, May 31

Aidan Gee, a Monrovia High sophomore, was selected as Youth of the Year; Kristy and Todd Bowden will receive the Mary Wilcox Youth Advocacy Award; and The Berns Team will be recognized as Corporate Partner of the Year. The public event features food trucks, inflatables, games, and a classic car show. Tickets.

- Brad Haugaard

City to consider issuing $76 million bond for renovations, consolidating elections

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

~ Beginning proceedings to issue up to $76 million in bond financing to renovate the Community Center, Recreation Park, Fire Station 102, and City Hall. Details

~ Consolidate the municipal elections with the statewide general election, on Nov. 3, 2026. Details

- Brad Haugaard

City interested in property on north edge of Monrovia


The city is apparently interested (see here) in acquiring a parcel of land at 347 Highland Place in north Monrovia (marked with orange dot). Comment: It would make a nice addition to the Hillside Wilderness Preserve. Details

- Brad Haugaard

Veterans meetup at Starbucks, May 26


Veterans meetup at the Starbucks at Huntington and Magnolia, May 26, 6 to 7 p.m. Veterans and military service members can receive free coffee, meet other veterans, and schedule appointments with a Veterans Service Officer or a representative from Veterans Peer Access Network. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Teen activity at the Library, June 1


Teen Activity Hour at the Library’s Community Room, Monday, June 1, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Teens in grades 7-12 can participate in an activity planned by the Teen Advisory Board leadership team. No registration required. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Days is on







Carnival today in Library Park until 10 p.m., then again tomorrow and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

- Brad Haugaard

Harbaugh named schools' Classified Employee of the Year


Plymouth Elementary office manager Desiree Harbaugh has been named Monrovia Schools' Classified Employee of the Year for 2025-2026 after 13 years serving the school community in volunteer, PTA, library, and office roles. Harbaugh said she was "1,000% surprised to be selected." She said her favorite part of the job is greeting students and families each morning and helping create a welcoming school culture. 

- Brad Haugaard

Summer Solstice Garden Party, June 20

RSVP here

- Brad Haugaard 

Library book sale Saturday, May 16

Tomorrow, Saturday, May 16, the Friends of the Monrovia Public library will hold its Spring Book Sale, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. All proceeds benefit the library.

- Brad Haugaard 

Viola's Bar & Bistro Now Hiring as Monrovia Opening Approaches

Viola's Bar & Bistro, a new French bistro café set in a restored historic property at 512 S. Ivy in Monrovia, is now hiring. The restaurant, in the residence of former City Historian Steve Baker, is expected to open soon.

- Brad Haugaard

Coming Up in Monrovia

Monrovia Days, May 14-17

Free adult dog adoptions May 15-24

Special seat belt enforcement campaign begins May 18

Game Night for Adults at the Library, May 22

Free garden tools workshop at Monrovia Community Garden South, May 23

Watercolor workshop at the Community Center, May 27

Boys and Girls Club carnival May 31

VFW Post 2070 BBQ & Car Show, June 13

Fire Resilient Gardening workshop June 27

- Brad Haugaard

School Board to consider summer pool program for public; contraband sniffer dogs

At its next meeting  (agenda here) the Monrovia School Board will ...

~ Consider an agreement with the City of Monrovia and the Santa Anita Family YMCA for a summer pool program at Monrovia High. The 8-week program (June 8-July 31) would offer open swim, lap swim, and recreation. The city would contribute $8,000 and the YMCA would provide staffing and management. Details.

~ Consider paying $200 per visit for sniffer dogs on district campuses to detect contraband, "to include, but not be limited to, all drugs of abuse (in the broadest terms), alcoholic beverages, firearms and ammunition." Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Taisho Teriyaki Grill


Dinner at Taisho Teriyaki Grill, in the shopping center at the northeast corner of Huntington and Fifth. Got the Chicken Teriyaki Bowl (#5) for $11.95. It came with a drink and the bill had no space for a tip!. Tasty and filling.

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: Kids found in filthy car; Four catalytic converters stolen; Trash-can arsonist caught; Woman scammed by family-danger call; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for May 7 – 13, 2026. 538 calls for service, 112 investigations, 1 mental evaluations, 7 traffic collisions, 11 arrests. - Brad Haugaard]

MAY 7

Vehicle Burglary

At 9:21 a.m., a victim in the 1100 block of S. Magnolia reported that his vehicle was burglarized. An investigation revealed one of his windows was shattered and the vehicle was ransacked. This investigation is continuing.

Missing Located

At 1:56 p.m., an officer patrolling the area of Foothill and Canyon saw a vehicle commit a traffic violation. A traffic stop was conducted and the occupants were contacted. A computer search revealed the passenger was reported missing in West Covina. The passenger was removed from the missing person system.

Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested

At 2:12 p.m., a caller in the area of Mountain and Valley View reported a suspicious vehicle. Officers arrived and contacted the driver. An investigation revealed he was in possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arrested, cited, and released at the scene.

Grand Theft Auto Recovery

At 2:21 p.m., an employee from a business in the 3300 block of S. Peck reported that they were notified that a vehicle which they purchased from a tow yard had been reported stolen. An officer recovered the vehicle and had it stored. This investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested

At 4:48 p.m., a shoplifting incident was reported at a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington. Officers arrived and located the suspect. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Counterfeiting

At 8:44 p.m., an employee from a store in the 500 block of W. Huntington reported a male subject made a purchase with counterfeit money. This investigation is continuing.

Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested

At 11:22 p.m., an officer patrolling the area of Mayflower and Huntington 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 drug paraphernalia and a controlled substance. The driver was arrested and taken into custody.

MAY 8

Municipal Code Violation – Suspect Arrested

At 12:10 a.m., while patrolling near a park in the 300 block of S. Myrtle an officer saw a subject in the park, after hours. The officer made contact with the subject. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Municipal Code Violation – Suspect Arrested

At 2:19 a.m., an officer patrolling near a park in the 600 block of S. Shamrock saw a subject in a park after hours and made contact with him. A computer search revealed he had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested

At 8:04 a.m., a caller in the 700 block of W. Huntington reported a male subject who appeared to be smoking narcotics. Officers arrived, located the subject and made contact with him. An investigation revealed he was in possession of a controlled substance and had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Domestic Violence

At 8:33 a.m., a victim walked into the MPD lobby to report that her boyfriend had pushed her the day prior. This investigation is continuing.

Fraud

At 1:44 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of S. Ivy reported that a check she wrote and dropped off at a post office was altered and fraudulently cashed. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft – Suspect Arrested

At 3:41 p.m., an employee at a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington reported a shoplifting incident. Two female subjects entered the store, concealed merchandise, and exited without paying. Officers responded, located and detained both subjects, and they were positively identified by the reporting party. Both were placed under arrest for grand theft and transported to the Monrovia Police Department jail for booking.

Theft

At 4:16 p.m., a caller reported her phone was stolen while she was shopping at Kohl's, 504 W Huntington Dr. This investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary

At 4:29 p.m., an employee from a business in the 500 block of S. Myrtle reported a burglary that occurred at approximately 3:00 a.m. on May 7. Surveillance footage showed the suspect locating a spare key, using it to gain entry, and stealing approximately $400 from an unsecured safe inside the business. This investigation is continuing.

Battery

At 7:39 p.m., officers responded to a disturbance at a park in the 300 block of S. Myrtle involving multiple juveniles fighting. Officers learned two juvenile females battered another juvenile female before fleeing the area. The victim sustained minor injuries. Officers searched the area but were unable to locate the suspects. This investigation is continuing.

Vandalism

At 9:45 p.m., officers responded to a report of vandalism in the area of Fifth and Huntington after a witness heard multiple subjects spray painting beneath a bridge. Officers located fresh purple and blue graffiti on a wall under the bridge reading "EDB" and "41:10." The suspects had fled prior to officers' arrival and were not located. Public Works was notified for removal. This investigation is continuing.

Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested

At 10:39 p.m., an officer conducted a bicycle stop in the area of Shamrock and Evergreen for a vehicle code violation. During the investigation, the subject was found to be in possession of a controlled substance. The subject was arrested and transported to jail for booking.

Drug Offense – Suspects Arrested

At 11:54 p.m., an officer contacted two subjects in the 100 block of W. Duarte during a pedestrian stop. During the investigation, one subject was found to have an outstanding warrant, while the other was in possession of drug paraphernalia. Both subjects were arrested and transported to jail for booking.

MAY 9

Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested

At 12:41 a.m., an officer contacted a subject inside a park in the 1600 block of S. Myrtle after posted hours. During the investigation, the subject was found to be in possession of a controlled substance. The subject was arrested and transported to jail for booking.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested

At 2:09 a.m., an officer contacted a subject in the area of Huntington and Highway Esplanade. The subject was found to be too intoxicated to care for himself. The subject was arrested and transported to jail for booking.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested

At 7:54 p.m., an officer on patrol contacted a subject in the 1600 block of S. Myrtle. During the investigation, the subject was found to have an outstanding warrant and displayed objective signs of intoxication to the point he was unable to care for his own safety. The subject was arrested on the warrant and for public intoxication, and transported to jail for booking.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested

At 8:03 p.m., an officer on patrol observed a subject in the area of Olive and Magnolia who appeared intoxicated and stopped to check on his welfare. During the contact, the subject displayed objective signs of intoxication and was determined to be unable to care for his own safety. The subject was arrested for public intoxication and transported to jail for booking.

Grand Theft

At 8:35 p.m., officers responded to a theft report at a department store in the 500 block of W. Huntington. The victim reported her wallet was taken from her purse while shopping. The wallet contained identification cards, a debit card, and approximately $2,600 in cash. This investigation is continuing.

Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested

At 10:02 p.m., an officer contacted a subject in the area of Fifth and Huntington during a pedestrian stop. Further investigation revealed the subject was in possession of drug paraphernalia. The subject was arrested.

Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested

At 10:02 p.m., an officer contacted a subject in a park in the 1600 block of S. Myrtle after hours. During the contact, the subject attempted to conceal drug paraphernalia from the officer. Further investigation revealed the subject was also in possession of a controlled substance. The subject was arrested and transported to jail for booking.

MAY 10

Drug Arrest – Suspect Arrested

At 1:00 a.m., officers responded to a report of an occupied suspicious vehicle in the parking lot of a hotel in the 900 block of W. Huntington. Officers contacted the male occupant inside the running vehicle and conducted an investigation. During the contact, the subject was found to be in possession of a controlled substance. He was arrested and transported to jail for booking.

Vandalism

At 10:22 a.m., a victim in the area of Myrtle and Los Angeles reported that a male subject struck his vehicle with a cane multiple times, shattering the driver window. This investigation is continuing.

Child Abuse – Suspect Arrested

At 2:07 p.m., a caller in a parking lot in the 500 block of W. Huntington reported several children alone inside a vehicle for an extended period of time. Officers arrived and located the children in a severely unkempt vehicle. The mother was arrested when she returned to the vehicle. This investigation is continuing.

MAY 11

Theft from Vehicle

At 8:29 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of Spanner reported a theft from her vehicle. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft

At 10:14 a.m., copper cable was reported stolen from under the roadway in the area of Mountain and Royal Oaks. This investigation is continuing.

Fraud by False Pretense

At 12:56 p.m., a victim reported a phone scam at the MPD lobby, stating an unknown subject claimed her family was in danger and coerced her into wiring money. The victim confirmed her family was safe after completing the transfer and realized the call was fraudulent. This investigation is continuing.

Weapon Offense – Suspect Arrested

At 1:18 p.m., an officer patrolling the area of Shamrock and Central saw a vehicle commit a traffic violation. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was contacted. An investigation revealed the driver was in possession of a loaded firearm. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Fraud by False Pretense

At 2:17 p.m., a victim in the 800 block of W. Walnut received a call from whom she believed to be a phone service representative. She was asked to pay for a service and after paying she realized it was a scam.

Grand Theft

At 2:25 p.m., the theft of copper cable was reported in the area of Shamrock and Royal Oaks. This investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting – Suspects Arrested

At 8:22 p.m., an employee from a store in the 500 block of W. Huntington reported a theft in progress. Officers arrived and located the suspects outside the store. They were arrested and taken into custody.

MAY 12

Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested

At 12:36 a.m., an officer patrolling a park in the 1600 block of S. Myrtle saw a subject in the park after hours and made contact with her. An investigation revealed she was in possession of drug paraphernalia. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Vehicle Tampering – Suspect Arrested

At 2:02 a.m., officers responded to the 200 block of Violet regarding a female checking door handles. Officers arrived and made contact with the female subject. An investigation revealed she was in possession of credit cards that did not belong to her. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Grand Theft

At 4:38 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 500 block of W. Palm regarding subjects on a resident's driveway. Officers arrived and determined the resident's catalytic converter had been stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Mail Tampering

At 4:45 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of Violet reported several packages belonging to residents had been ripped open. This investigation is continuing.

Arson – Suspect Arrested

At 7:36 a.m., a caller in the area of Colorado and Myrtle reported seeing a subject lighting trash cans on fire. Officers arrived and located the subject who admitted to lighting the trash cans on fire. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Grand Theft

At 8:17 a.m., a victim in the 900 block of W. Hillcrest reported the catalytic converter to her vehicle stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft

At 3:36 p.m., a resident walked into the MPD lobby to report the catalytic converter to his vehicle was stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary

At 5:30 p.m., an employee from a business in the 200 block of E. Foothill reported that a subject was attempting to purchase merchandise with fake money. While the subject was attempting to pay, another subject stole merchandise from the back of the business. This investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested

At 6:07 p.m., a caller at a business in the 800 block of W. Huntington reported a disturbing subject yelling at customers. Officers arrived and located the subject. A computer search revealed he had a warrant for his arrest and he was intoxicated. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

MAY 13

Grand Theft

At 12:54 p.m., a victim in the 800 block of W. Hillcrest reported the catalytic converter to his vehicle stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Trespass – Suspects Arrested

At 3:03 p.m., a caller in the area of Magnolia and Evergreen reported a subject trespassing in a vacant residence. Officers arrived and located a female subject inside a vacant residence. While officers were detaining the female subject, a male subject was approaching the vacant residence. He was found to have warrants for his arrest. She was arrested, cited and released at the scene. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Free adult dog adoptions May 15-24

Pasadena Humane will waive adoption fees for dogs 6 months and older during its “May I Go Home With You?” promotion, May 15-24. More than 40 adult dogs are available. Adoptions include spay or neuter surgery, vaccinations, and a microchip. Standard procedures and possible licensing fees still apply. Adoptions available daily, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. View pets here.

Monrovia Days starts tomorrow, Thursday, with Monrovia Days Parade


This year Monrovia Days - May 14-17 - celebrates the nation’s 250th birthday and the Route 66 centennial, with a Western theme. Live music, beer garden, carnival food, games, and rides.

Thursday, May 14

Monrovia Days Parade  The parade begins at 7 p.m. on Myrtle Avenue at Olive Avenue, proceeding north to Library Park. 

Friday, May 15 

  • 5 p.m. - 10 p.m. - Carnival rides, food and games
  • 5 p.m. – 6 p.m. - Youth Performances
  • 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. - Live Entertainment, Stone Soul - Motown Band

Saturday  and Sunday

  • 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. - Friends of the Library Book Sale
  • Noon - 10 p.m. - Carnival rides, food and games
  • Noon - 4 p.m. - Youth Entertainment
  • Noon - 5 p.m. Yesteryear Exhibit in the Multi-Purpose Room
  • 4:30 p.m. - 5 p.m. - Parade Awards Ceremony (on Saturday)
  • 5 pm - 5:30 p.m. - Merengue Bakery Pie Eating Contest (on Saturday)
  • 7 pm – 10 p.m. - Live Entertainment, Blue Breeze Band - Funk & Soul Band

- Brad Haugaard

Goofy, adventurous Daymond is a pit bull who lives life at full throttle

Uploaded ImageDaymond loves to live life at full speed — whether he's enjoying playtime in the Training Yard at Pasadena Humane, sniffing every corner of Old Town, or making friends over pup cups. This 1-year-old pit bull terrier is a volunteer and foster favorite thanks to his goofy personality, affectionate nature, and adventurous spirit.

He loves walks, toys, treats, and being around people. And when the excitement of the day has passed, he's happy to settle in nearby for pets and cuddles. Daymond is also potty trained, great on walks, and very food-motivated, making him the perfect companion for a similarly energetic adopter.

Daymond is available for adoption today! From May 15–24, all adult dogs can be adopted for free during the "May I Go Home With You?" 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 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: Where the McDonalds got their start

The Airdrome (top right corner of photo) at 742 E Huntington Drive was one of two original orange juice stands owned by Richard McDonald and his brother Maurice. It and the Giant Orange (a second stand at 721 E Huntington) were at the Monrovia Flying Field, which was roughly across the street from the current Aldi shopping center. Both were the first McDonald's! From the Gary Boen 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

Fire Resilient Gardening workshop June 27


Upper Water district is sponsoring a Fire Resilient Gardening workshop at its headquarters June 27, 10 to 11:30 a.m. Upper Water and the UC Master Gardeners will present strategies for plant selection, garden design, and maintenance to help reduce wildfire risk around homes. Headquarters is at 248 E. Foothill Blvd., first level. Registration required here. Questions: Katherine@usgvmwd.org.

- Brad Haugaard

Happy Mothers' Day to a Monrovia mom from USS Nimitz

A Monrovia Navy crew member aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz, AO3 Puente, recorded this video for her mom for Mother's Day. (AO3 stands for Aviation Ordnanceman Petty Officer 3rd Class, an enlisted rank of E-4).

“Hi, my name is AO3 Puente. I’m from Monrovia, California, on the USS Nimitz and on Mother’s Day, I want to recognize my mom, Evelyn Busiere. She’s my heart and soul, and I just want to tell her, love you, Mom.”

- Brad Haugaard

Special seat belt enforcement campaign begins May 18

Monrovia Police will conduct extra patrols through May 31 as part of the statewide “Click It or Ticket” campaign, looking for drivers and passengers not wearing seat belts or children not properly secured in car or booster seats.

- Brad Haugaard

Boys and Girls Club carnival May 31


Family carnival and Youth of the Year rally at Recreation Park May 31, noon to 4 p.m. Inflatables, games, food trucks, car show, and open house. Open to the public. $20 wristband for activities; $25 at the door. Adults must pre-register and sign waivers. Cashless event. Sponsorships and congratulatory messages available. Tickets here.

- Brad Haugaard

Baby Storytime at the Library, May 12


Baby Storytime at the Library, Tuesday, May 12, 10 to 10:30 a.m. For children to age five. Books, songs, games, and motion activities to help develop pre-literacy skills. Children must attend with an adult. For information call the Library at 256-8274. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Game Night for Adults at the Library, May 22


Game Night for Adults at the Library, May 22, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Adults 18 and older can play board games, puzzles, and Nintendo Switch games, or bring games to share. In the Library Lobby. Details

- Brad Haugaard

Firefighters Pancake Breakfast tomorrow, May 9



- Brad Haugaard

Art Night Tonight at Grey & Cash

The Monrovia Fine Arts Association is hosting Art Night this evening at Grey & Cash in Old Town, from 6 to 9 p.m. Artists interested in displaying their work at a future event can find more information at monroviafinearts.org.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia ACTV Phase 1 bike and pedestrian project survey open through June 26

The city wants your thoughts on its plan to build bike and pedestrian connections under the 210 freeway and along Central and Evergreen to better connect the train station and Old Town. It is finalizing plans for the "Monrovia Active Community Travel Vinculum Phase 1" project. (A vinculum being "a bond, tie, or connecting band.") Details here. The community survey (here) is open through June 26. For email updates and meeting notices, contact ccastruita@monroviaca.gov.

- Brad Haugaard

Free garden tools workshop at Monrovia Community Garden South, May 23

Monrovia Community Garden South is hosting a free Garden Tools Workshop on May 23, from 9 to 11 a.m. at 1650 S. Magnolia Ave. The workshop covers tool safety, maintenance, and choosing the right tool for the job. SGV Best Cutlery will be on hand to sharpen tools at no charge. Bring your own tools. Parking is available at the free Park & Ride lot at 168 W. Pomona Ave.

- Brad Haugaard

Coming Up in Monrovia

Trip planned to see Sound of Music May 8

Unity Center needs volunteers for big May 9 food drive

Monrovia Fire & Rescue pancake breakfast, May 9

Author to sign books at Black Cat Fables, May 9

Storytime with Park Naturalists, May 9

Free 'Flourishing in Retirement' course to be held at Monrovia Community Church starting May 10

Yarn and Fabric Hangout May 12 at Library

Coming up for Monrovia Days, May 14-17

Watercolor workshop at the Community Center, May 27

VFW Post 2070 BBQ & Car Show, June 13

- Brad Haugaard

Planning Commission to consider what to do with old house the city bought


At a special meeting the Planning Commission (agenda here) will hold a study session on what to do with the old Victorian house the city bought at 222 E. Cypress Ave. Under consideration: Preserve the house and mature trees and add 14 housing units of no more than two stories. Details

- Brad Haugaard

Pasadena church plans move to Monrovia


CrosspointLA, a church located on Altadena Drive in Pasadena, is planning to move to Monrovia, using space in the World Vision International building at 800 W. Chestnut, between Walnut and Fifth. The church would use the space on Sundays and for a Wednesday night child-focused Bible study program, called AWANA. The proposal will be considered by the Planning Commission. Details

- Brad Haugaard

Free 'Flourishing in Retirement' course to be held at Monrovia Community Church starting May 10

A free course on "Flourishing in Retirement, How to live fully, fruitfully, and joyfully in the season of retirement" will be held at Monrovia Community Church (former First Presbyterian Church at Foothill and Myrtle) on Sundays, 9 to 10:10 a.m., in the church's Fireside Room on May 10, 17, 31, and June 14. The course will be taught by Mark Roberts, a senior fellow for Fuller Seminary's Max De Pree Center for Leadership and will cover biblical teachings as well as contemporary research on retirement. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Las Marias


Dinner at Las Marias, in the shopping center at the southwest corner of Foothill and Alta Vista. Got the number one combination, a soft taco and chile relleno for $14.30 and an Agua Fresca for $3.64. Very nice and filling, and I thought the "small" drink was pretty big.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Catalytic converter thieves on Lime, Lemon avenues - four stolen; Woman threatens store staff, leads police on chase; Arsonist caught at the scene; Trailer thief caught; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for April 30 – May 6, 2026. 506 calls for service, 92 investigations, 4 mental evaluations, 3 traffic collisions, 15 arrests. - Brad Haugaard]

APRIL 30

Fraud / Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested

At 9:39 a.m., an employee from a business in the 900 block of W. Duarte reported a male subject used a fraudulent credit card to make a purchase. Officers arrived, located the subject outside the business and made contact with him. An investigation revealed he was in possession of multiple stolen credit cards, tools for the production of fraudulent cards and drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Grand Theft

At 10:11 a.m., a victim in the 900 block of W. Foothill reported that his vehicle was broken into. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto

At 8:03 p.m., officers were dispatched to a car dealership in the 800 block of E. Central regarding a grand theft auto. This investigation is continuing.

MAY 1

Drug Offense

At 9:26 a.m., an officer patrolling the 600 block of W. Huntington saw a suspicious vehicle in a parking lot and made contact with the occupants. An investigation revealed one of the subjects was in possession of a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Arson

At 1:14 p.m., a caller in the 1600 block of S. Myrtle reported a fire at the location. Officers responded and located a smoldering fire in a landscaped area adjacent to a thicket of bushes. It appeared that someone removed a drain cover and threw a lit object inside. MFD responded and extinguished the fire. No witnesses were located in the area. Investigation ongoing.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested

At 6:34 p.m., officers were dispatched to a store in the 500 block of W. Huntington regarding a theft. Officers arrived and located the subject nearby. He was still in possession of the stolen property. He was arrested and taken into custody.

MAY 2

Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested

At 10:13 a.m., a resident in the 600 block of W. Maple reported three subjects inside a parked vehicle using narcotics. Officers arrived, located the vehicle and made contact with the subjects. An investigation revealed drug paraphernalia, and all three occupants had warrants for their arrest. They were arrested and taken into custody.

Critical Missing

At 3:01 p.m., a caller in the 1000 block of Royal Oaks reported his mother missing. Officers responded immediately and quickly developed information. After a thorough search, she was located safe and unharmed. Her adult son responded to the location and transported her back home safely.

MAY 3

Grand Theft

At 2:41 a.m., a caller in the 1900 block of S. Myrtle reported a trailer being stolen. Officers arrived and located the stolen trailer. A traffic stop was conducted. The passengers fled on foot as the vehicle came to a stop. The driver was arrested. The passenger was not located and the victim refused prosecution.

Grand Theft Auto

At 8:44 a.m., a caller reported that he was staying at a hotel in the 700 block of W. Huntington with a group of people when two of their motorcycles were stolen sometime during the early morning hours. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto

At 12:52 p.m., a caller reported that he was staying at a hotel in the 700 block of W. Huntington when his motorcycle was stolen sometime during the early morning hours. This incident is believed to be connected to the earlier reported motorcycle theft. This investigation is continuing.

Vandalism / Pursuit

At 1:16 p.m., a resident in the 800 block of W. Walnut reported an unknown subject pulled alongside her vehicle, removed her temporary license plate, and yelled that she had stolen her friend's car before driving away. It was subsequently discovered that the suspect had struck the victim's vehicle with her fist, causing damage. This investigation is continuing.

Vandalism

At 11:40 a.m., a caller in the 300 block of W. Colorado reported that her front bedroom window was shattered with what appeared to be a bb gun. This investigation is continuing.

Vandalism

At 11:40 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of W. Colorado reported that her kitchen window was shattered with what appears to be a bb gun. This investigation is continuing.

Pursuit

At 7:08 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington regarding a woman threatening staff and refusing to leave. Officers located the suspect's vehicle returning to the business, but she fled again, leading police on a pursuit through city streets and onto the freeway. The pursuit ended in Duarte, where officers negotiated with the driver to safely exit the vehicle. Due to her behavior and statements, she was transported to a hospital for a mental evaluation. The stolen property was recovered and returned to the victim.

Shoplifting

At 9:01 p.m., a shoplifting incident was reported at a store in the 500 block of W. Huntington. This investigation is continuing.

MAY 4

Arson

At 12:08 a.m., an officer patrolling the 100 block of W. Pomona heard a fire alarm and located a portable restroom on fire. This investigation is continuing.

Theft – Suspect Arrested

At 11:39 a.m., an employee from a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington reported a male subject entered the store and left with merchandise he did not pay for. Officers arrived and located him outside the store. He was arrested.

Identity Theft

At 12:58 p.m., a mother walked into the MPD lobby to report her disabled son's identity was stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Court Order Violation

At 1:13 p.m., a victim walked into the MPD lobby to report the father of her child was in violation of a restraining order. This investigation is continuing.

Vandalism – Suspect Arrested

At 2:46 p.m., a witness in the 600 block of S. Shamrock reported three male subjects were spray painting trashcans. Officers arrived, located the subjects and made contact with them. The investigation identified the subject who had been spray painting. He was also found to have a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Theft

At 3:56 p.m., a caller in the 800 block of S. Primrose reported theft of their copper cable. This investigation is continuing.

Vandalism

At 5:32 p.m., a victim in the area of Duarte and Peck reported that when his vehicle came to a complete stop, a subject got out of his vehicle, broke his side view mirror, and fled. This investigation is continuing.

MAY 5

Grand Theft Auto

At 8:10 a.m., a victim in the 300 block of S. Mountain reported his ATV stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Fraud

At 8:06 p.m., a business in the 700 block of E. Central called to report a client who fraudulently used another's identity to rent a vehicle. This investigation is continuing.

Arson – Suspect Arrested

At 11:56 p.m., an arson was reported at a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington. Officers arrived and located the suspect nearby. He was arrested and taken into custody.

MAY 6

Grand Theft

At 8:49 a.m., a victim in the 400 block of W. Lime reported the catalytic converter to her vehicle stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft

At 9:38 a.m., a resident in the 600 block of W. Lemon reported the catalytic converter to their vehicle stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft

At 10:55 a.m., a caller in the area of Lemon and Primrose reported copper wire stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Attempt Grand Theft

At 11:07 a.m., a victim in the 400 block of W. Lemon reported that someone attempted to steal the catalytic converter from her vehicle. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft

At 3:45 p.m., the resident in the 200 block of W. Lemon discovered someone stole their vehicle's catalytic converter. This investigation is continuing.

Robbery

At 8:09 p.m., a caller in the 400 block of Genoa reported his juvenile son was robbed of his bicycle. An investigation revealed the victim was slapped and pushed off his bicycle before it was taken. This investigation is continuing.

Monrovia High School Battle of the Bands Friday at 5 p.m.


Monrovia High School will host its Battle of the Bands tomorrow, Friday, May 8, at 5 p.m. The event features live performances from local bands. Admission is $10, or $5 for those who bring a donation to the school's Giving Closet.

- Brad Haugaard

Watercolor workshop at the Community Center, May 27

Free Monrovia Association of Fine Arts watercolor workshop at the Community Center, May 27, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Instructor George Liang will cover drawing, sketching, and watercolor techniques, including fluidity and translucence effects. Participants should bring watercolor paints, brushes, paper, palette, pencils, masking tape, water jar, board, and paper towels. Registration required here.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia School District holds Femineer engineering summit


On May 5, Monrovia School District held its 4th annual Femineer Summit, with more than 100 students presenting projects. Students in grades 4–5 focused on coding; grade 6 designs on wearable tech.

- Brad Haugaard

A Moment in Monrovia History: WWII fighter pilot visited by boxing champion

Monrovian Lt. David Wicks of 918 Crescent Drive, a P-38 pilot serving in the South Pacific during World War II, was hospitalized with malaria in 1945, and got a visit from Coast Guard Commander Jack Dempsey, the former heavyweight boxing champion. 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

Author to sign books at Black Cat Fables, May 9

Author Elena Marie will sign copies of her novel, "Nine Months", at  Black Cat Fables on Saturday , May 9. Black Cat Fables is at 415 S. Myrtle Ave Unit B. The novel is a contemporary romance focused on ambition, loyalty, and relationships.

- Brad Haugaard

Senior celebrity Bella is an easygoing German Shepherd ready for her second chance

Uploaded ImageMeet sweet Bella at Pasadena Humane! Bella has spent years being a loyal companion, and now this wonderful golden-age senior German Shepherd is ready for a second chance with a family she can call her own. She's a bit of a local celebrity—an adoption event star who's often out in the community on walks with her foster or volunteers.

Easygoing and relaxed, Bella takes new places and people in stride. Whether it's a quiet afternoon at home or a neighborhood stroll, she's happiest by your side. If you're looking for a calm, loving companion, Bella might be your perfect match! She's also available for an adoption trial, making it easy to see how naturally she could become part of your everyday life.

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

Free Virtual Workshop on Native Plant Landscaping Set for May 7


The Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District, in partnership with UC Master Gardeners, will hold a free virtual landscape workshop on Thursday, May 7, from 6 to 7:15 p.m. The workshop covers California native plants from the San Gabriel Valley and San Gabriel Mountains, including how they support local pollinators, how to identify invasive plants, and which varieties work best in home gardens. To register, visit this link; questions can be directed to Katherine@usgvmwd.org.

- Brad Haugaard

Route 66 celebration at Recreation Park






Some of the displays at the Route 66 celebration at Recreation Park today. Old cars, including an old Plymouth that belonged to former city historian Steve Baker, trailer homes, the original Monrovia Seagrave fire truck, music, and a giant orange, representing the McDonald brothers first food stand, here in Monrovia.

- Brad Haugaard

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