Monrovia Now: News and Comment about Monrovia, California

Q&A: Help for veterans at Monrovia Public Library

2026-10-26T14:45:16.075-07:00

Librarian and Veterans Resource Center Coordinator Maira Hernandez-Andrade and Library Supervisor Kurt Gally. Photo provided by Kurt Gally.

Monrovia Public Library’s Veterans Resource Center helps veterans navigate benefits and connect with housing, mental health and employment resources. With Veterans Day coming up, we asked Library Supervisor Kurt Gally about common requests the Center gets, barriers to getting help, and plans for the coming year.

What brings veterans to the center most often, and what gets in the way of prompt help?

Gally: The most common reasons veterans and their family members visit are assistance navigating VA benefits, including disability compensation; college fee waivers for eligible family members; and a veteran designation on their driver’s licenses.

The timeline for receiving assistance often depends on factors beyond the center’s control, including the availability of a Veterans Service Officer and response times from the federal Department of Veterans Affairs.

Many older veterans are unfamiliar with the VA mobile app, making it harder to check claims and receive updates. The center has a Veterans Peer Access Network representative on-site every Tuesday who can assist with this process, no appointment needed. The network also helps with housing, mental health and employment inquiries.

Which veterans are least likely to use the center, and how are you reaching them?

Gally: Based on feedback during veterans’ programs and events, younger veterans appear to be among the least likely to use the center. Work schedules, family responsibilities and the feeling that they are taking opportunities away from older veterans can be barriers.

The center offers monthly programs for veterans of all ages and their families. These informal gatherings introduce visitors to the center and its resources without the pressure of a formal service appointment.

Staff also visit local Veterans of Foreign Wars posts and attend community events, including the Annual Congressional Veterans Forum hosted by Representatives Gil Cisneros and Judy Chu. Our monthly e-newsletter shares a calendar, announces programs and recaps past events. Sign up here.

What should veterans expect over the next year?

Gally: We plan to continue programs that bring veterans and their families together and connect them with community resources.

A trip to the American Military Museum in El Monte is planned for Jan. 30, 2027. Registered participants will receive free transportation from the library and a free guided tour, with an opportunity to connect with fellow veterans.

The center is also planning a spring 2027 program with the Veterans Peer Access Network to help veterans learn to navigate the VA mobile app. Hands-on guidance will focus on checking claims, accessing information and receiving updates, particularly for older veterans who need help using online services.

- Brad Haugaard

Spicer reports $10,950 in contributions; Kelly $6,452, Rojas $1,510

2026-10-26T12:03:17.304-07:00

Monrovia City Council campaign committees reported monetary contributions this year of $10,949.92 for Larry Spicer, $6,451.84 for Tamala Kelly and $1,510 for Jesus Rojas, according to their Form 460 statements covering activity through Oct. 17 and filed by Oct. 22.

Rojas also reported a $10,000 loan from himself and Spicer reported $450 in nonmonetary contributions. Those amounts are separate from the monetary-contribution totals above.

- Brad Haugaard

Halloween line dancing at Monrovia VFW Oct. 26

2026-10-24T12:02:42.942-07:00

A Halloween-themed line-dancing evening will be held Monday, Oct. 26, at the Monrovia VFW, at Magnolia and Chestnut, starting at 6:45 p.m. with dancing ending around 9:30 p.m. A group photo is planned for 7:15 p.m., followed by lessons from 7:20–8:20 p.m. Halloween costumes are encouraged, and October birthdays will be celebrated.

- Brad Haugaard

Starlight Cinemas proposes new signs and copper trim for Old Town theater

2026-10-23T21:12:39.767-07:00

Proposed look for new Starlight Cinemas.

Starlight Cinemas is proposing new signs, copper-colored trim and four illuminated movie-poster cases for the former Look theater as it prepares to reopen later this fall, according to a city staff report. Details.

The plans retain the building’s arches and marquee structures while replacing Look’s identification with Starlight lettering and Art Deco fan logos. Staff recommends approval with conditions requiring indirect, halo-style sign lighting and no flashing or animated illumination.

The Historic Preservation Commission will review the plans Wednesday, Oct. 28, at 7:30 p.m. at City Hall, 415 S. Ivy Avenue (agenda here).

- Brad Haugaard

Tickets still available for Oct. 24 Live Oak Cemetery tour

2026-10-23T21:07:24.693-07:00

Tickets are still available for the Live Oak Cemetery tour Saturday, Oct. 24, from 3:30–5 p.m., according to Sandy Burud, president of the Monrovia Historical Society. Jim Wigton, president of the Monrovia Historic Preservation Group, will lead the tour. Tickets are $25, benefiting the Historical Society; the tour is limited to 25 guests. Register online or at the Monrovia Community Center, 119 W. Palm Ave. Information: 626-256-8246.

- Brad Haugaard

Ed Cunningham honored posthumously with Golden Acorn award

2026-10-23T21:06:21.061-07:00

The Monrovia Parks, Wilderness, and Recreation Foundation honored longtime Canyon Park trail boss Ed Cunningham posthumously with its Golden Acorn award at its fall event. His daughter, Kim, accepted on his behalf, the Foundation said.

Cunningham, who died June 11, served as Canyon Park’s trail boss for 28 years. He helped establish and maintain trails, developed Nature Center exhibits and interpretive tours, and trained volunteers and park staff, according to the City’s June tribute.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia schools gain in science and math; graduation rate reaches 96.7%

2026-10-23T12:32:05.457-07:00

Monrovia Unified’s graduation rate rose to 96.7%, from 94.9% in 2025, while students gained ground in science and math, according to the 2026 California School Dashboard.

The district’s science score increased 3.7 points to 56.8, reaching the state’s Green performance level. Math improved 7.2 points but remained 22.4 points below proficient. English Language Arts remained Green, at 11.6 points above proficient.

The share of graduates classified as prepared for college and careers reached 59.9%, compared with 56.1% in 2025. Chronic absenteeism declined to 12.5%, from 14.8%.

These are districtwide results for the Dashboard’s “All Students” group. The district highlighted the figures in a Facebook announcement. Prior-year results are here.

- Brad Haugaard

Free fall and winter planting workshop, Nov. 7

2026-10-23T12:21:32.031-07:00

Earth Commons Community Garden will hold a free fall and winter planting workshop Nov. 7 at noon at the corner of Greystone and Mountain. Karen from Armstrong Garden Centers will discuss planting in cooler months. Snacks and plant starts will be available. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

FEMA: Prepare for possible El Niño flooding

2026-10-23T12:14:42.648-07:00

The city is sharing FEMA's flood-preparation advice as El Niño develops:

Review insurance now, because most homeowners and renters policies exclude flood damage, and National Flood Insurance Program coverage generally has a 30-day waiting period.
Clear gutters and drains.
Save digital copies of important documents, photograph belongings.
Sign up for alerts and prepare emergency supplies, including for pets.
Residents downhill or downstream from burn areas should prepare for flash floods and debris flows and follow evacuation orders.
Never walk, swim or drive through floodwater.

Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Black alumni association scholarship gala, Nov. 14

2026-10-23T12:09:02.968-07:00

The Monrovia Duarte Black Alumni Association will hold its scholarship gala Nov. 14 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Monrovia, 924 W. Huntington Drive. A reception starts at 6 p.m., followed by the program at 7 p.m. The theme, "Legacy of Faith in the Community," honors alumni serving as pastors and ministers. Dinner and entertainment are included. Tickets are $75 online. For other payment options, contact mdbaainfo@gmail.com or 626-664-6537. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Library Story Room construction starts Oct. 26; children's area to close

2026-10-23T12:06:09.436-07:00

Construction to expand Monrovia Public Library's Story Room from about 700 to 2,000 square feet starts Oct. 26, with completion expected in December. The library will remain open, but the children's area, including the Children's Desk, Story Room, nearby juvenile collection and Big Cozy spaces, will close during construction. Storytime and other programs will move to the Community Room or Community Center.

- Brad Haugaard

Coming Up in Monrovia

2026-10-23T06:04:28.117-07:00

Bradoaks Fall Festival Oct. 23 to support student field trips

Intrepid comedy show at Underdog Bookstore Oct. 23

‘Coco’ movie night and potluck at Earth Commons Oct. 23

Painted Promises art fundraiser, Oct. 23–25

Free bulky-item drop-off Oct. 24 at Station Square

Live Oak Cemetery tour returns, Oct. 24

Sensory-friendly morning at the Library, Oct. 24

Volunteers sought for Make a Difference Day, Oct. 24

Free health screenings at USC Arcadia Hospital Oct. 25

Taste of Old Town Returns Oct. 25

Jewish Book Festival: Oct. 25 through Dec. 6

Chick-fil-A Monrovia to host Fall Fest Oct. 26

Garden club talk on adding native plants, Oct. 26

Novel T's book club at the Library, Oct. 27

Pop-up makerspace for teens at the Library, Oct. 28

Veterans meetup includes breakfast at Merengue Bakery, Oct. 28

Watercolor workshop set for Oct. 28

Big band dance social coming to Old Town Oct. 30

Mobile Vote Center at Street Fair on Oct. 30

Calvary Chapel Harvest event set for Oct. 31

Halloween Spooktacular and Trick-or-Treat Bash, Oct. 31

Barks and books at the Library, Nov. 3

November Adult Craft at the Library, Nov. 3

Storytime at the Library, Nov. 4

Free fire-resilient gardening workshops, Nov. 5

Native plant sale and 200-tree giveaway, Nov. 14

Community Prayer Breakfast set for Nov. 20

- Brad Haugaard

Bradoaks Fall Festival Oct. 23 to support student field trips

2026-10-22T20:01:19.649-07:00

Bradoaks Elementary PTA will hold its Fall Festival Friday, Oct. 23, from 6 to 9 p.m. at 930 E. Lemon Ave. Games, music, food, face painting, balloon art and a haunted house will help raise money for student field trips.

- Brad Haugaard

School board to consider $474,000 communications project; Bradoaks playground hazards; bullying policy; Etc.

2026-10-22T19:52:13.959-07:00

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

~ Consider a $473,921.78 Measure MM communications project at Plymouth and Wild Rose, including emergency notifications, bells and public-address systems, with a $45,000 contingency included. Details.

~ Receive a facilities report identifying severe Bradoaks playground asphalt deterioration, including wide cracks, loose gravel, holes and gaps allowing pests beneath adjacent portable classrooms. Details.

~ Review a proposed bullying policy addressing off-campus, after-hours cyberbullying that creates a hostile educational environment. This is a first reading, not adoption. Details.

~ Receive an arts funding report listing $819,983 in Proposition 28 allocations for 2026–27, down from $883,721 in 2025–26. Details.

The public meeting is Wednesday, Oct. 28, at 6:30 p.m. at the district office, 325 E. Huntington Drive.

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Fillet Sushi

2026-10-22T18:47:46.051-07:00

Dinner at Fillet Sushi, on the east side of Myrtle just north of Olive. Got the mustard albacore roll for $21 and a beer for the happy hour price of $7. Very tasty.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Four catalytic converter thefts; Knife pointed at passing cars; Theft suspects found in Fontana; Fire prompts evacuations; and more...

2026-10-22T14:29:32.319-07:00

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for October 15 - 21, 2026. 446 calls for service, 96 investigations, 6 mental evaluations, 11 traffic collisions, 12 arrests. - Brad Haugaard]

OCTOBER 15

Runaway

At 8:17 a.m., an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 400 block of W. Walnut regarding a runaway juvenile report. The juvenile was entered into the missing persons system. This investigation is continuing.

Vandalism

At 11:25 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 500 block of W. Huntington regarding a bus that was vandalized by a male subject. He was gone prior to officers’ arrival. This investigation is continuing.

Drug activity – Suspect Arrested

At 2:28 p.m., a caller in the 800 block of W. Huntington reported a disturbing subject in a parking lot. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject. A computer search revealed he had a warrant for his arrest and a search revealed he was in possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Commercial Burglary

At 4:28 p.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 600 block of W. Huntington regarding an alarm activation. Officers arrived and discovered a broken window and property was taken. This investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested

At 11:32 p.m., a domestic violence incident was reported at an apartment complex in the 800 block of W. Walnut. Officers arrived and made contact with the victim who had visible injuries. An investigation revealed she had been battered by her boyfriend. He was arrested and taken into custody.

OCTOBER 16

No significant incidents to report.

OCTOBER 17

Structure Fire / Arson

At 9:05 p.m., a fire was reported at a residence in the 300 block of S. Heliotrope. Officers arrived and assisted with evacuating nearby residences. MFD arrived and extinguished the fire. This investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence

At 10:45 p.m., a domestic violence incident was reported in the 1000 block of Royal Oaks. Officers arrived and made contact with the involved parties, one had visible facial injuries. An investigation revealed the female subject was a danger to others. She was transported to a medical facility for a mental evaluation. This investigation is continuing.

OCTOBER 18

Identity Theft

At 3:24 p.m., a victim in the 200 block of Valle Vista reported an identity theft issue involving several unauthorized credit accounts and a recent vehicle purchase. This investigation is continuing.

Lost / Stolen Plate

At 5:18 p.m., a resident in the 400 block of W. Huntington reported the license plate to his vehicle stolen. This investigation is continuing.

OCTOBER 19

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested

At 12:02 p.m., a caller in the 1600 block of S. Magnolia reported a male and female subject yelling. Officers arrived and made contact with the parties involved. An investigation revealed the male subject was keeping the female subject from leaving and the female subject began to harm herself. He was arrested for false imprisonment. She was transported to a medical facility for a mental evaluation.

Theft

At 12:31 p.m., a theft was reported at a store in the 500 block of W. Huntington. This investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested

At 1:10 p.m., a caller in the 100 block of W. Foothill reported an intoxicated male subject. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject. An investigation revealed he was too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Theft

At 3:18 p.m., an employee from a store in the 1600 block of S. Mountain reported a male subject took merchandise and left without paying. This investigation is continuing.

Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested

At 5:27 p.m., a passerby in the area of Huntington and Fifth reported a male subject holding a knife and pointing it at passing vehicles. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject who was still in possession of the knife. An investigation revealed he was under the influence of a controlled substance. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

OCTOBER 20

Vehicle Burglary

At 3:36 a.m., a neighbor called to report hearing a loud noise and seeing a suspicious subject running from a neighbor’s property in the 900 block of W. Hillcrest. Officers arrived and located a vehicle with a smashed window. An investigation revealed property was taken from the vehicle. This investigation is continuing.

Theft – Suspects Arrested

At 10:32 a.m., a male and a female subject walked into a store in the 1600 block of S. Mountain, took merchandise and fled without paying. The suspects were located in Fontana. They were arrested and taken into custody.

Shoplifting

At 6:18 p.m., a shoplifting incident was reported in the 500 block of W. Huntington. This investigation is continuing.

Battery

At 6:43 p.m., a victim in the 700 block of W. Huntington reported a male subject approached him from behind and struck his head. The victim suffered injuries and was transported to a hospital for treatment. This investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary

At 8:15 p.m., a resident in the 100 block of N. Encinitas reported that several days prior, someone broke into his vehicle and stole a portable speaker. This investigation is continuing.

Theft of an Innkeeper

At 8:45 p.m., officers were dispatched to a restaurant in the 200 block of W. Huntington regarding subjects who fled without paying the bill. This investigation is continuing.

OCTOBER 21

Grand Theft

At 6:57 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of W. Palm reported the catalytic converter to her vehicle stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft

At 7:01 a.m., a caller in the 100 block of Melrose reported the catalytic converter to her vehicle stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft

At 3:10 p.m., a victim in the 200 block of W. Lime reported the catalytic converter to her vehicle stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft

At 3:26 p.m., a resident in the 600 block of W. Palm reported the catalytic converter to his vehicle stolen. This investigation is continuing.

- Brad Haugaard

Sarah Covarrubias sworn in as Monrovia’s first woman police chief

2026-10-22T11:41:31.355-07:00

Photo courtesy of the City of Monrovia.

Sarah Covarrubias was sworn in as Monrovia’s 11th police chief at the Oct. 20 City Council meeting. She officially takes over Nov. 1, becoming the first woman to lead the department in the city’s 139-year history, according to a city news release. Covarrubias grew up in Monrovia and joined the department as a cadet in 2000, advancing through the ranks to captain. She also served six years in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve..

- Brad Haugaard

Candidate Statement of City Council candidate Jesus Rojas

2026-10-22T07:19:11.446-07:00

I AM JESUS ROJAS. I AM A HOMEOWNER. I AM A DOER, NOT A TALKER.

As a homeowner, I have a personal stake in Monrovia’s future. I am running for City Council to protect our families, defend our neighborhoods, and deliver results, not excuses.

FIGHT RISING COSTS. Families are being squeezed by rising living expenses, property taxes, and utility bills. Residents should not have to choose between paying bills and meeting their families’ needs. I will fight unnecessary tax increases, push for affordable utility rates, and demand responsible city spending.

PROTECT OUR HOMES. Short-term rentals were raised during a candidate discussion in February 2020. Years later, our community still awaits action. I will make a responsible short-term rental ordinance a priority to protect homeowners and preserve neighborhood character.

SAFER STREETS. Drawing on my public safety experience, I will pursue practical, enforceable solutions to bicycle takeovers and dangerous street behavior to protect families and hold those responsible accountable.

PROTECT OUR FOOTHILLS. I will advocate for underground power lines where feasible and stronger wildfire prevention to protect lives, homes, and property.

PRESERVE OUR HERITAGE. I will advocate for qualified arborists to protect Monrovia’s trees, preserve our urban forest, and safeguard our historic character for future generations.

RESPONSIBLE AFFORDABLE HOUSING. I will work with our Board of Supervisors and regional partners to advance affordable housing in already designated areas while respecting established neighborhoods.

COMPASSION WITH COMMON SENSE. Regarding Blondie and her cubs, I would have advocated for alternatives to euthanasia and worked with local authorities and wildlife experts to explore safe relocation to a suitable, protected habitat.

I am not running to react after problems arise. I am running to anticipate challenges, demand accountability, and take action.

MONROVIA DESERVES MORE THAN PROMISES. IT DESERVES LEADERSHIP THAT DELIVERS.

I AM READY TO LEAD. READY TO ACT. READY TO DELIVER FOR MONROVIA.

Candidate Statement of City Council candidate Larry Spicer

2026-10-22T07:17:03.334-07:00

Larry J. Spicer Candidate Statement for Monrovia City Council

My name is Larry J. Spicer, a lifelong Monrovian, U.S. Army veteran, husband, father, and dedicated public servant who has spent more than 15 years building relationships, strengthening neighborhoods, and serving the community I proudly call home.

Since first being appointed to Monrovia City Council in 2011 and later elected in 2013, I have worked alongside residents, businesses, schools, community organizations, regional partners, and my fellow councilmembers to address the issues that matter most to our city. Together, we, the City Council, have invested in streets, parks, public infrastructure, public safety, and community services while maintaining a strong commitment to fiscal responsibility and long-term planning.

My service to Monrovia extends beyond the City Council. I currently represent our community on regional boards, including the Foothill Workforce Development Board, the Gold Line Construction Authority, and Council of Governments Transportation Member, where collaboration and partnership help bring resources and opportunities back to Monrovia. I also currently serve as a volunteer for the Community Emergency Readiness Team (CERT), American Red Cross, Sheriff’s Department and the Tournament of Roses. In the past, I have also served as a Planning Commissioner, Monrovia Area Partnership (MAP) Leader, and Parent on Patrol volunteer with the Monrovia Unified School District.

Throughout my years of service, I have remained committed to listening, building consensus, and ensuring that every resident has a voice. I believe the best solutions come from working together with transparency, respect, and a shared commitment to the future of our city.

Monrovia has been the foundation for my family. My wife Delphine and I, along with our three children, all attended Monrovia's public schools and are proud graduates of Monrovia High School, Go Wildcats! Their success reflects the strength of the community that has given us so much.

I respectfully ask for your vote so I may continue working with our community to preserve Monrovia's character, support its progress, and build an even stronger future for generations to come.

Vote Larry J. Spicer for Monrovia City Council
Tuesday, November 3, 2026

Rain expected in Monrovia Wednesday into Thursday

2026-10-21T09:17:35.340-07:00

Rain is expected in Monrovia Wednesday, Oct. 21, into Thursday as a storm moves through Southern California, according to the National Weather Service. The heaviest Los Angeles County rainfall is forecast from 7 p.m. Wednesday to 2 a.m. Thursday.

NWS expects generally 0.5–1.5 inches of rain, with 1.5–3 inches on south-facing mountains and foothills. These are regional estimates, not a Monrovia-specific total. There is a 20% chance of thunderstorms. Minor flooding and debris flows are possible, especially near recent burn scars. NWS forecast.

- Brad Haugaard

Barks and books at the Library, Nov. 3

2026-10-21T06:38:53.925-07:00

Children ages 6-11 can read to a dog during a 10-minute Barks and Books session at the Library on Tuesday, Nov. 3, between 4 and 5 p.m., with Love on a Leash and Therapy Dogs International. An adult must accompany each child; registration is required and remains open. Register.

- Brad Haugaard

Pop-up makerspace for teens at the Library, Oct. 28

2026-10-21T06:36:19.196-07:00

Students in grades 7-12 can make zines, friendship bracelets, pins and buttons, try a 3D art pen or explore coding with Sphero Mini Bots at the Library on Wednesday, Oct. 28, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Drop in anytime; no registration required. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Where to vote in Monrovia

2026-10-21T06:35:39.982-07:00

If you are nervous about voting by mail, you can vote at any Vote Center or return a vote-by-mail ballot at any official drop box for the Nov. 3 General Election.

Monrovia in-person voting: The Monrovia Public Library will be open Oct. 24-Nov. 2 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Election Day from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monrovia High School, 845 W. Colorado Blvd., Room 210, will be open Oct. 31-Nov. 2 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Election Day from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Santa Anita Family YMCA's Multi-Purpose Room will be open Oct. 31–Nov. 2, 10 a.m.–7 p.m., and Nov. 3, 7 a.m.–8 p.m.

The city will also host an LA County Mobile Vote Center Friday, Oct. 30, from 5 to 9 p.m. in the 800 block of South Myrtle Avenue during the Friday Night Street Fair and Market.

24-hour ballot drop boxes: Monrovia Public Library, 321 S. Myrtle Ave. is available 24 hours a day.

See also the county’s official Vote Center list and ballot drop-box list.

- Brad Haugaard

Novel T's book club at the Library, Oct. 27

2026-10-21T06:31:08.653-07:00

Novel T's book club will discuss Theo of Golden by Allen Levi at the Library on Tuesday, Oct. 27, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., with discussion beginning at 6:45. A Zoom option is available; newcomers should email jandrewsheldon@gmail.com to connect with the group. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police Officers’ Association sells collectible pink patch for $10

2026-10-21T06:12:44.000-07:00

The Monrovia Police Officers’ Association is selling a collectible pink Monrovia Police patch for $10 at the Police Department (140 E. Lime) during regular business hours, while supplies last. Details.

- Brad Haugaard