Layoffs at AeroVironment? | Construction Begins on Monrovia Train Station | Food Exchange at Library Park
~ Building the Monrovia train station has started. http://goo.gl/ml0oU
~ Produce in the Park food exchange will be tomorrow, June 1, from 9-11 a.m. in Library Park (at Mark Twain).
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Council Meeting | Water Art | Graduation Time!
~ At its June 4 meeting, the Monrovia City Council will meet in closed sessions to deal with the 2013-2015 fiscal budget, a couple lawsuits, and labor negotiations with police and firefighters. Also, at 7:30 p.m. the council will hear an appeal of Historic Preservation Commission Decision regarding 535 W. Lemon, consider an historic landmark for 201 Acacia Ave., consider a permit for a 21-unit development on a portion of 1323 S. Magnolia Ave. http://goo.gl/m7236
~ The summer show at Segil Fine Art (110 W. Lime) will feature 50 artists' interpretations of the theme, water. Artist's Reception, June 15, 5-7 p.m. Exhibit runs through August 31.
~ Monrovia High graduation, June 5, 7-9 p.m., Wildcat Stadium, Monrovia High. Graduation for Canyon Oaks High School, Mountain Park School, and Quest Academy, at June 4, 6:30-8 p.m. at Monrovia Historical Musuem, 742 E. Lemon.
- Brad Haugaard
Bike Race Through Monrovia | Train Station Tile Work
~ Get a sneak peak at some of the tile-work that will be going into the new Monrovia train station. http://goo.gl/01edC
- Brad Haugaard
Closing in on a Superintendent | Monrovia Summer School | Baseball Bat Arrest | Book Sale
~ Details on Monrovia Schools Foundation summer enrrichment program. http://goo.gl/3wQjB
~ Suspect arrested in string of baseball bat robberies, including one in Monrovia.
~ Throughout June Friends of the Monrovia Public Library bookstore (in the Library) will have adult books and media with a light green dot on the spine are half-price. Regular prices are from $0.25 to $2.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Assembly Member's Bills Pass Assembly
- AB 143, which will to give active duty military personnel a tax break when they are transferred into California. The Military Use Tax Exemption would eliminate use taxes - a type of sales tax - on personal property purchased by an active duty military member who has been transferred into the state.
- AB 250 establishes an iHub ("innovation hub") program to help start-up companies and creates the iHub Accelerator Fund as part of the state treasury to accept private funding to operate the program. It was approved on a vote of 63 to 2. Holden said establishing the fund "will allow the state to compete for grant funding from the federal government, private sector and foundations."
- Brad Haugaard
AeroVironment Search and Rescue | Monrovia City Link Starting | The Accursed
~ Monrovia City Link is a new mentoring project that connects a high school student with a college student, and that college student with a professional adult. City Link is looking for students and professionals to be part of the pilot program. Former School Superintendent Linda Wagner helped start the program. http://goo.gl/HWPGb
~ On June 25th, Novel T's, a book club at the Library, will discuss "The Accursed" by Joyce Carol Oates, a Gothic mystery described as "Ragtime" in Dracula's castle. All are welcome. Discussion begins at 6:45 in the Library Community Room. Light refreshments.
- Brad Haugaard
Assembly Approves Bill by Monrovia's Assemblyman to Encourage Governments to Buy California Food
Under Holden's AB 199 Choose California Act, state agencies, public schools districts and public colleges would be encouraged to give California agriculture producers priority when purchasing food products.
"This bill would help introduce more Californians to the amazing variety of agricultural products grown in the state and help them develop the healthy habit of seeking out nutritious, affordable California-grown foods, which will have long-term benefits to farmers and the agricultural economy," stated Assemblymember Holden.
According to the Department of Food & Agriculture, California is the number one state in agricultural output with farms and ranches earning a record $43 billion last year.
AB 199 passed on a vote of 70 to 0. Earlier in the session the measure was approved by the Assembly Accountability and Administrative Review Committee and the Assembly Agriculture Committee. It now moves to the Senate.
Source: Holden press release
Comment: This bill has been vastly improved. It was originally terrible because it would have forced various California governments to pay more for food. But it has been amended so now it simply "encourages" the purchase of California food. No problem with that. http://goo.gl/dICtM
- Brad Haugaard
The Artist at Work on Monrovia Train Station | Market Grill Number 1 | Head Start Program Hit
~ Monrovia's Market Grill, first stop on an LA hamburger tour. http://goo.gl/X1Blk
~ Monrovia Head Start program affected by sequester. http://goo.gl/p0f07
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia High Fundraiser: Chuck a Pie at a Teacher
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Chasing a Cop Till He Catches You; Man Walks Home, Flusters Family; DUIs; Etc.
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for May 23-26. - Brad Haugaard]
Following are the weekend's highlighted issues and events.
Commercial Burglary – One Suspect Arrested
May 23 at 1:54 p.m., a business in the 1600 block of South Mountain called to report a shoplifter in custody. Two suspects, a male and a female, entered the store, while a third suspect waited in a vehicle outside. The male suspect selected merchandise and handed it to the female, who then concealed the property inside her purse. The female suspect exited the store without paying for the merchandise. A loss prevention officer detained the female, but the male suspect was not located. The male suspect and the suspect waiting in the car fled the scene before police arrived. The female suspect was arrested for burglary and two outstanding warrants. A computer check revealed she is currently on parole for burglary and has two outstanding drug related warrants. The investigation is continuing.
Driving Under the Influence of Drugs / Possession of Marijuana – Suspect Arrested
May 24 at 12:16 a.m., an officer noticed a vehicle traveling north on Peck Road with a broken taillight, following too close to a vehicle, and changing lanes without signaling, so he conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle. The vehicle struck the curb while pulling over for the officer. When he approached the vehicle, he noticed the driver appeared to be under the influence of drugs. The officer conducted a DUI investigation and subsequently arrested the driver for DUI. During a search of the vehicle, he located a useable amount of marijuana in the vehicle.
Vandalism
May 25 at 12:06 a.m., an officer responded to the report of vandalism in the 700 block of California. The victim parked his Chevy Tahoe in an alley. Suspect(s) in a white, two-door vehicle, possibly a Honda, drove by the Tahoe and struck the vehicle with a baseball bat. The Tahoe was hit two times within a 30 minute period. The investigation is continuing.
Warrant – Suspect Arrested
May 25 at 10:24 a.m., officers responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle in the area of Primrose and Pomona. Upon arrival, they located a converted school bus, now being used as a motor home, with several subjects inside. Officers contacted the subjects and determined one of them had an outstanding warrant for petty theft. The subject was taken into custody for the warrant.
Resisting and Delaying a Peace Officer by Means of Threats – Suspect Arrested
May 25 at 1:42 p.m., officers were completing a call and, as the last officer drove away, two subjects from the incident began yelling obscenities at the officer. One of the subjects chased the officer's police vehicle on foot, while yelling and challenging the officer to fight. The officer approached a stop sign, approximately 300 feet away from the original call, and saw the subject was still chasing and challenging him, and was now approaching his patrol vehicle.
The officer positioned his vehicle several feet away from the subject, requested backup, and exited his vehicle to deal with the subject. The subject continued running towards the officer, threatening to fight him. The officer drew his Taser and the subject stopped. The suspect was arrested for resisting and delaying a peace officer by means of threats.
Warrant / Resisting and Delaying a Peace Officer – Suspect Arrested
May 26 at 1:11 a.m., police received a call reporting three subjects acting suspicious around a vehicle in the area of California and Colorado. Officers arrived and contacted three subjects. One of the subjects was found to have an outstanding warrant for his arrest. When the officer attempted to arrest the suspect for the warrant, he tensed up and struggled with the officer, attempting to pull away. Another officer had to assist in taking him into custody. The suspect was arrested without further incident.
Driving Under the Influence / Obstructing and Delaying a Peace Officer – Suspects Arrested
May 26 at 3:10 p.m., an officer on patrol noticed that a vehicle traveling south on Myrtle almost struck a detour sign, so he conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle. The female driver appeared to be under the influence. The male passenger exited the vehicle and became argumentative with the officer and removed his t-shirt. The officer requested backup and removed his Taser. The suspect told the officer to go ahead and Tase him, but when he saw assisting officers approaching, he placed his hands behind his back. He was arrested for obstructing and delaying an officer without further incident.
The officer then completed his investigation on the female driver and determined she was driving under the influence; she was arrested. The passenger later admitted that he thought if he was arrested, it would distract the officer away from the DUI driver, his girlfriend.
Critical Missing Located
May 26 at 6:40 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 400 block of West Huntington regarding a missing person. A 65-year-old male was shopping with his family at the business and he became bored and wanted to go home. His family told him to wait by the door and they would be out soon. When the family was ready to leave they could not find him. They looked all over the store and then called police. Officers responded and searched the area, put out a missing person's flyer, and contacted surrounding agencies. Just after 8:00 p.m., the family called and said he had returned home. The man had walked home from the store in Monrovia to his home in Rosemead.
Stolen Vehicle Recovered
May 27 at 2:13 a.m., an officer on patrol in the 3300 block of South Peck Road observed a white van parked on the street. He ran a computer check on the van and found it was reported stolen out of Pico Rivera. The van was recovered.
Assemblymember Holden's Water District Bill Heads to the Governor's Desk
Holden applauded his colleagues' bipartisan support "for this common sense, good government bill designed to limit the 'lame duck' term for outgoing Water District Directors." Holden added, "This bill will ensure water districts are able to move swiftly between terms and critical business is not delayed unnecessarily."
Here's the problem: Newly elected directors of California Water Districts take office on the first Friday in December, while those elected to Municipal Water Districts must wait until the first Monday after January 1st, making it difficult to proceed with municipal water business until new members are seated some 60 days later.
Testifying in favor of the bill was sponsor, Three Valleys Municipal Water District President Bob Kuhn, who noted following the hearing, "We are pleased with the Legislature's positive response to AB 72. The bill establishes good governance for all Municipal Water Districts and we urge the Governor to sign this valuable piece of Legislation."
AB 72 passed the California Senate on May 24th by unanimous consent. It was approved in the Assembly earlier this year. If signed by the Governor, it would go into effect January 1, 2014.
Source: Holden press release
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia HIV Lab Trying to Raise $30 Million | City Budget Study Session
~ There will be a study session at the Monrovia City Council about the city's 2013-2015 fiscal budget. May 29, at 4 p.m. in the Council Chambers. You can chime in if you want as there is time on the agenda for public input. http://goo.gl/21nXW
- Brad Haugaard
Vintage Planes do Memorial Day Fly-Over
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia: Favorite Downtown, Best Air Conditioning Company
- Air-Tro is the "Best Air Conditioning and Heating Company."
- Old Town Monrovia is the "Favorite Downtown," yet Glendora somehow has the "Best Downtown." Huh?
And you'll be interested to know that California Institute of Advanced Management - ever heard of it? - is the "Favorite College/University" while PCC is the "Best College/University." Uhh. I think I'll consider this a just-for-fun survey.
- Brad Haugaard
Beating on Sequoia Circle in Monrovia
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia's Mosley in CIF State Meet | Paul Dols - Teacher of the Year
~ Monrovia High's Paul Dols - district's teacher of the year. http://goo.gl/ggaHD
- Brad Haugaard
Remembering a Monrovian for Memorial Day
- Brad Haugaard
Lunch at Bella Sera
A Boost for Restoring Monrovia's Old Fire Engine?
"With Chris Kidd of Tired Iron Works [auto restoration, on Foothill] getting behind the effort to raise funds to restore the 1917 Seagrave pumper, one of Monrovia's first fire engines, perhaps momentum will now accelerate to bring this project to fruition."
- Brad Haugaard
'Kit Homes' in Monrovia
In the latest issue of the Monrovia Historic Preservation Group's newsletter, Sylvia Dohnal writes that they were developed in 1906 by Aladdin Homes of Bay City, Michigan, and were popular for about 30 years.
She writes that in Monrovia there are two on El Nido, as well as models on Myrtle, Encinitas, Ivy, Primrose, Palm, Lime, Canyon and Wildrose. And likely others.
- Brad Haugaard
Weekend Festival | Blood Drive
~ Mt. Sierra College blood drive, May 30, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. http://goo.gl/5FYZh
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Competing to Get a Facelift
On Wednesday, Benjamin Moore, a paint manufacturer and color authority, announced its biggest initiative ever to revitalize communities across North America through the launch of "Main Street Matters," according to a press release issued by the paint company.
The campaign asks consumers around the country to cast their vote online for which 20 Main Streets should be revitalized of the more than 100 North American cities nominated at www.paintwhatmatters.com. Monrovia was selected by the company, though representatives did not indicate why Monrovia was chosen. The other California cities are Martinez, Gilroy and Eureka.
Monrovia Mayor Mary Ann Lutz said she was very excited to learn about the opportunity - especially when public funds that used to be available to assist with these types of facade improvements have been harder and harder to come by in recent years.
"We are very grateful to be included in this program, and are hoping that Monrovians and all Southern California residents will cast their votes for our beloved Old Town," Mayor Mary Ann Lutz said.
Old Town Monrovia is the symbolic heartbeat of the community, and has proven to be a regional attraction because of its weekly Friday Night Family Festival, beautiful Krikorian Move Theater, and an abundance of quaint stores, eateries and public amenities such as the public library.
The effort will be undertaken with the help of multiple partner organizations around the country, including Make It Right, a long-time partner of Benjamin Moore that was founded by actor-philanthropist Brad Pitt. Brad Pitt will be lending his voice in support of the effort that Benjamin Moore is undertaking with Main Street Matters.
In addition to partner organizations, this effort will be brought to life with local Benjamin Moore dealers and in conjunction with local municipalities, small businesses and local Chambers of Commerce. The effort will begin this summer and the work on repainting these Main Streets will be completed over the next year.
"Our Main Streets are the vital hubs of our communities - and Benjamin Moore and our network of independent dealers have always been integral parts of Main Street," said David Melançon, Chief Marketing Officer of Benjamin Moore. "This investment we're making in communities around North America is core to our business and to who we are; Main Streets make us who we are and we're proud to honor that with this effort.
Benjamin Moore will not only provide the paint and supplies needed for facades, porches, railings, shutters and other exterior building trims, but its color experts will consult on the best choices to enhance the architectural style, regional influences and historic references in each community. Skilled professional painters, many of them members of the Painting and Decorating Contractors of America, will be hired, putting another segment of local business to work along with the local Benjamin Moore retailer who will be mixing the paints that are used.
The communications portion of "Main Street Matters", which allows local businesses and community members to tell their stories, includes not only the online component, but also is being supported by an aggressive advertising program. A mix of national and local market TV, radio, online and print ads will hit North America starting in May as part of the company's overall increase in marketing, which is up 61% compared to the previous year.
Voting began at 12:00 a.m. EST on May 16, 2013 and will end at 11:59 p.m. EST on June 30, 2013. Benjamin Moore will post the final list of Main Streets and towns to be repainted on www.paintwhatmatters.com in July.
For more information and a list of nominated cities across the U.S. and Canada, please visit www.paintwhatmatters.com.
Source: City of Monrovia press release
- Brad Haugaard
Rendering of New Monrovia Residential Structure at 5th and Huntington
- Brad Haugaard
Pet 'Soiree' in Monrovia
L-F Jarel Busby with Nugget, Monica Busby (CEO of QLE-PR) with Chief, Brandon Tyler Russell (Wiener Dog Nationals), Joey Luthman (Joey & Elise Show / Nickelodeon's "How to Rock"), Elise Luthman (Joey & Elise Show), Tina Q Nguyen, Caroline Fossum, John Littlefield (Extreme Makeover: Home Edition), Gary Ward (Co-Owner of Canine Caviar), Klera Washington with Lexi, Elias Washington, Heart Hays with Starr, Athena Katalaris with Gigi). Photo by Tealeye Cornejo
Canine Caviar Pet Foods co-hosted a "Red Carpet Soiree" at Monrovia's Highlander Pet Center, closing out Monrovia's 127th Birthday festivities and gathering more than 160 pounds of food for Foothill Unity Center's Pet Food Drive. There were many breeds of dogs, from Chihuahuas to Great Danes.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Suspect Arrested While Picking Up Generator | Scuffle Over Firing | Hiding Out Under Cars
Monrovia Running Back - Academics First | Relief Truck to Oklahoma
~ Monrovia's Christian relief agency, World Vision, has sent 53-foot truck trailer filled with relief supplies to the Oklahoma tornado area. http://goo.gl/qmqU1
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia's Hope Unlimited Church Sending Team To Help in Oklahoma
- Brad Haugaard
Vote to Repaint Monrovia | Raymond Chandler Lived in Monrovia | Court Denies Murder Appeal
~ Crime novelist Raymond Chandler once lived on Duarte Road here in Monrovia. http://goo.gl/VAHWN
~ State Supreme Court won't hear an appeal by convicted in Monrovia double murder case. http://goo.gl/5bZtb
- Brad Haugaard
New Name for 'New Beginnings' Church
- Brad Haugaard
Valley Jewish Federation Collecting for Tornado Victims
"Millions have been affected by the tornadoes that have devastated communities in Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma and more over the past few days," said Federation President Stuart Miller. "The Greater San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys' Jewish community is ready to respond to provide support to those most in need, and our thoughts and prayers go to all of those affected by these devastating tornadoes."
Community members wishing to make contributions for this cause can do so in one of two ways. The first is to mail, call or drop-off contributions at the Jewish Federation (Attn: Oklahoma City Tornado Relief, 550 S. Second Avenue, Arcadia, CA 91006 or 626.445.0810). Or, you may donate to Jewish Federation of North America (JFNA) online at http://goo.gl/kT4Q7
All funds will be directed to social welfare agencies in the affected areas serving both the Jewish and general communities. The Jewish Federation will absorb all administrative costs, ensuring that 100% of all donations go directly to aid those most grievously affected.
For more information about the Jewish Federation's Oklahoma City Tornado Relief Fund, or additional ways individuals can help those affected, please contact the Jewish Federation by calling 626.445.0810 or sending an email to federation@jewishsgpv.org.
Jewish Federation of the Greater San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys and Federations across North America are committed to care for victims of global natural disasters, and have emergency relief plans into place to aid those in need. Over the past few years, Jewish Federations have raised funds for those affected by widespread storms around the U.S. and more than $2 million for victims of earthquakes, tsunamis and other situations around the world.
Source: press release
- Brad Haugaard
Public Works Week - Monrovia Utilities Division
Monrovia Organization Responding to Oklahoma Tornado | A Welding App
~ Need to know what materials can be welded? Doesn't everyone? Well, there's an app for that, created by Monrovia's Miyachi Unitek. http://goo.gl/kEMBx
- Brad Haugaard
Things You Can Do With Books | Monrovia City Offices Closed Memorial Day
~ Next Monday, Memorial Day, city offices will be closed. http://goo.gl/WBxbl
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Parking Too Close Leads to Crowbar Fight; Gardener's Mowers Stolen; Drugs; Etc.
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for May 16-19. - Brad Haugaard]
Highlighted Activity for the Weekend of May 16-19, 2013
Following are the weekend's highlighted issues and events.
Grand Theft Auto / Grand Theft
May 16 at 11:00 a.m., a gardener parked his pickup truck in the 300 block of Norumbega and left his vehicle unattended with two lawnmowers, a blower, and a chainsaw in the bed of his truck. The equipment was secured with a bicycle chain. He returned to the vehicle just minutes later to discover his vehicle had been taken, and he called police. Police responded, along with the Foothill Air Support helicopter, which was able to locate the victim's vehicle parked two blocks away from where it was taken from; the gardening equipment was missing. It appears the suspect(s) cut the chain, as broken chain links were found in the bed of the truck. The vehicle was recovered and returned to the victim at the scene. Investigation continuing.
Armed Robbery
May 16 at 12:50 p.m., a male victim reported an armed robbery incident that occurred the night before. He reported that he was riding his bicycle at 10:30 p.m., when he observed a female lying on the sidewalk in the 500 block of West Duarte Road. The victim got off his bike to see if the female needed assistance, when two male suspects suddenly appeared. One of the suspects took the victim's yellow mountain bike. The victim approached the suspects, and one of the suspects brandished a handgun. Both suspects fled without further incident. It does not appear the suspects knew the female, who said she was okay and only resting. The victim said he did not report the incident when it occurred because he had to work the following morning.
Suspect number one is described as a male Hispanic, 40 years old, 5'10", 250 pounds, medium-length black hair, wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, and blue or black jeans. Suspect number two is described as a male Hispanic, 40 years old, 5'8", 180 pounds, medium-length black hair, wearing a brown striped t-shirt, dark pants, and black tennis shoes. The investigation is continuing.
Warrant Arrest
May 16 at 1:54 p.m., an officer responded to the 100 block of East Evergreen regarding a disturbing subject. The officer contacted the involved subjects and discovered one of the subjects had a $500,000 warrant issued by Pasadena Police Department for battery. The subject was arrested for the warrant and held, pending Pasadena Police Department's arrival to take him into custody.
Assault With a Deadly Weapon
May 16 at 9:27 p.m., an officer responded to a business parking lot in the 300 block of West Huntington regarding an assault with a deadly weapon. The victim entered a parking lot and parking his vehicle close to another vehicle. A passenger in the other vehicle pointed out to the victim that he had parked too close. The victim responded by challenging the passenger to exit the vehicle. The suspect and victim exchange words, and the victim walked away into a business to make a purchase.
When the victim returned, the suspect was next to his vehicle and was holding a crowbar. The victim wrapped his jacket around his arm and the two subjects began to fight. The suspect struck the victim on the wrapped arm with the crowbar, and the victim struck the suspect back in the face with a clenched fist. The suspect then struck the victim on the side of the head, causing a two inch laceration. The victim stumbled back and the suspect fled in his vehicle.
The victim was extremely uncooperative with officers, refused medical treatment, and refused to provide a detailed description of the suspect. Monrovia Paramedics were dispatched and managed to wrap the victim's injury. The victim also refused prosecution and stated that the incident was as much his fault and the suspect's. The investigation is continuing.
Possession of Narcotic Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
May 17 at 4:12 p.m., suspicious subjects were reported, possibly looking into parked vehicles in the 100 block of South Mountain. Upon the officer's arrival, two subjects were detained, a male and female. The female subject was found to be in possession of a methamphetamine pipe and a small amount of marijuana in her purse. The female was arrested for possession of the pipe. The area was searched, but no evidence of any vehicle tampering or burglary was found. The female also had outstanding warrants issued by the Arcadia Police Department. The second subject was identified and released.
Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
May 17 at 12:54 a.m., police received a call reporting a possible drunk driver traveling north on Myrtle from Longden. An officer responded and located the vehicle on Myrtle at the railroad tracks and conducted a traffic stop. During the investigation, the driver was determined to be driving under the influence and was arrested.
Possession of Narcotic Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
May 19 at 9:52 a.m., an officer on patrol observed a known subject walking on the sidewalk. He knew from prior contacts with her that she might have outstanding warrants. A computer check confirmed she had an outstanding warrant and she was detained. During a pat-down search, two drug pipes were found on her person. She was arrested and taken into custody.
Assault With a Deadly Weapon / Brandishing a Firearm / Battery / Criminal Threats – Suspect Arrested
May 19 at 2:52 p.m., police were dispatched to a business in the 400 block of East Huntington regarding an assault with a deadly weapon. A male and female employee argued over a coworker that had been fired. The male employee blamed the female employee for the firing of his friend. The female victim alleged the male suspect struck her in the back of the head with his fist. He then drove his vehicle toward her while she was standing in the parking lot. The suspect then stopped his vehicle near the victim and pointed a handgun at her and threatened her. He threw several items from his vehicle at her and then fled the scene. The victim drove home and called police.
Police responded and located the suspect. He was arrested after giving conflicting statements about the incident and witnesses corroborated portions of the victim's statements. The officer obtained an emergency protective order for the victim after the suspect arranged to be bailed out of jail.
City May Outsource Film Permits
Monrovia's Public Works Department: Environmental Services and Administration
210 Freeway Snarl in Monrovia
At Huntington Drive: http://goo.gl/rXAUj
Carrying a big load of grapes: http://goo.gl/9GXHH
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Providers Group Tea
- Brad Haugaard
Fountain to the Falls Race
~ Full list of top finishers. http://goo.gl/GAkCV
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Organization Helps Texas Tornado Victims
- Brad Haugaard
Zumba on Myrtle
Monrovia School Board: Honor Students and Staff, Settle Payment Dispute; Board Policies
~ Honor Regional Occupational Program Outstanding Students of the Year: Adam Anderson - Graphic Design - Silver Medal; Viviana Lopez-Arambula - Fashion Merchandising - Bronze Medal; Margarita Sandoval - Child Development - Bronze Medal; Susan Beltran - Child Development - Bronze Medal; Hayden Cedeno - Photography - Bronze Medal.
~ Honor SkillsUSA Regional and State Qualifiers: Zach Carels & Erica Flores - TV-Video Productions; Tanya Orona - Child Development; Regional Bronze Medalist Vincent Rayney - Photography; and Regional Gold Medalists and State Gold Medalists Scott Card and Jalen Mason - TV-Video Productions.
~ Honor - along with the Monrovia Chamber of Commerce - these Monrovia Unified School District employees for their outstanding service: Helen Hernandez, Library Technician I, Mayflower Elementary School; Joann Wiegand-Wallace, Teacher, Mayflower Elementary School; Tamille Buckell, Instructional Assistant-Computer Lab, Santa Fe Middle School; Julie Smith, Teacher, Santa Fe Middle School.
~ Consider settling with a company that did some computer work for the district to avoid a court battle. http://goo.gl/g0pDr
~ Consider a bunch of school board policies.
- Brad Haugaard
Lunch at Baja Fresh
Assemblymember Chris Holden's Mother Dies
It is with great sadness that Assemblymember Chris R. Holden announces the death of his mother, Fannie Louise Holden at the age of 78.
Ms. Holden, a longtime resident of Pasadena, died May 10th following a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. She is survived by her son Chris (Melanie Caldwell-Holden); son Reggie Holden (Heidi); grandchildren Nicholas, Alexander, Austin, Mariah, Christine and Jennifer; sisters Annie Jackson (Douglas), and Maxine Shaw (Johnny); first cousins Janice Chaffin and Nicole Ward (William); and her former spouse Nate Holden.
Fannie Louise Holden was a lifelong member of Scott United Methodist Church in Pasadena. Services and internment are private.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the: Alzheimer's Association - To view and make contributions to the memorial page created for Fannie Louise Holden Alzheimer's Research Fund, please click here: http://act.alz.org/site/TR?pxfid=96205&pg=fund&fr_id=1060
- Brad Haugaard
Runners, Zumba Dancers to Take Over Monrovia on Saturday
In addition to the run, the city - in partnership with the Santa Anita Family YMCA and Assemblyman Chris Holden - is hosting a Health and Fitness Expo featuring free Zumba classes at 7:05 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., free health screenings and lots of giveaways. Participating vendors include:
A Snail's Pace, 24-Hour Fitness, New Sensational Styles, Movement Unlimited Fitness, Xylem Salon, Pacific Transportation Federal Credit Union, Move Your Mountain Fitness, Balance Chiropractic, M3 Sport Psych, City of Hope, it Works!, Kaiser Permanente, Little Green Forks, New Liberty Nutrition, Hala Skin and Body, the Monrovia Fire Department, and the Office of Assemblyman Chris Holden.
The Monrovia Days Association, along with Center Stage Inc., will be hosting family fun activities including carnival style booths, food vendors, music and entertainment, birthday cake and balloons, and a fun Monrovia History Game.
There are 352 racers registered, the highest in the three years since the City has hosted the event. Monrovia is home to nearly 37,000 people, and is a community that stresses the important of healthy lifestyles. In addition to the accessibility to numerous hiking and biking trails in the San Gabriel Mountains, the City has dozens of businesses that support healthy living, including the headquarters of Trader Joe's, VegeUSA and Naked Juice.
Registration to the race has closed, but all other activities are free and open to the public. The Health and Fitness Expo is from 6 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The race kicks off at 7 a.m., Zumba in the street is at 7:05 to 7:35 a.m., and again at 10:30 to 11 a.m. The awards ceremony is at 10 a.m.
Source: Monrovia press release
- Brad Haugaard
Pet Events: Red Carpet for Dogs; Pet Health, Etc.
~ Veterinarian Sylvia Garcia shares information about maintaining your pet's good health and well being. Trainer Judy Paterson shares tips on being a courteous pet guardian. Saturday, May 25, 1-2 p.m at the Library Community Room. Fee. http://goo.gl/9Z7bN
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Council: Condo-Commercial Building on S. Fifth; Rainwater Treatment; Allow a Tear-Down? Cop and Fire Contract
~ Consider preliminary measures that would permit the construction at 1110 and 1212 South Fifth Ave. of a 154-unit multi-family structure with a commercial storefront. http://goo.gl/80YeF
~ Consider an agreement with Arcadia, Azusa, Bradbury, Duarte, Sierra Madre, LA County, and the LA County Flood Control District to treat, as required by law, rainwater runoff. This will cost the city "approximately $133,603.11." http://goo.gl/U8C6T
~ Consider an appeal of a homeowner who discovered the cost of rehab-ing his house will be more than he bargained on, about $200,000, so he wants to replace it. Problem: it was built before 1940, so the property is subject to demolition regulations, and it is on the city's list of Potential Historic Landmarks. The Historic Preservation Commission denied his request. http://goo.gl/sOoY6
~ Chat in closed session about a contract for the Monrovia police and firefighters. http://goo.gl/Br25m
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Fire Department: Fire Calls and Pancakes
Source: "This Week in Monrovia" newsletter
- Brad Haugaard
Saturday's Monrovia Day Schedule
6:00 am - Health & Fitness Expo Opens
6: 45 am - Brief Walkers/Runners on Race Rules
6:50 am - National Anthem - Centre Stage
7:00 am - Fountain to the Falls Race STARTS
7:00 - 11:00 am - Centre Stage Pancake Breakfast
7:05 am - Zumba in the Street
7:15 - 11:30 am - Musical Marathon at the Library Park Band Shell
10:00 am - Fountain to the Falls Winners are Announced
10:30 am - Body Vibe Demonstration in Library Park
11:00 am - Expo Closes
11:30 - 12:00 pm - Founders Celebration
- "Light of the silvery moon" performance by Centre Stage
- Monrovia Facts presented by Steve Baker
- Happy Birthday Monrovia from Mayor Mary Ann Lutz
12:30 - 3:00 pm- Band Performances in Library Park
Source: "This Week in Monrovia" newsletter
- Brad Haugaard
Learn How to Be Involved in Monrovia Government
The City is accepting applications to fill positions on the Planning Commission, Historic Preservation Commission, Community Services Commission, Library Board and Monrovia Old Town Advisory Board (MOTAB).
Source: Monrovia Facebook posting
- Brad Haugaard
Holden Bill Incorporated in Governor's Budget
"I introduced Assembly Bill 1065 this legislative year because of strong concerns with criminal justice realignment. Assembly Bill 1065 requires individuals released from prison that were previously certified as a mentally disordered offender (MDO) or mentally disordered sexual offender (MDSO) to be subject to state parole supervision instead of post-release community supervision by the county.
The Governor's administration has changed course and heard our concerns about the MDO/MDSO population and the strain it is causing to cities and counties. The Governor has included Assembly Bill 1065 into his budget proposal. Individuals who have been certified as an MDO/MDSO suffer from severe mental disorders and have committed crimes that involved violence or grave bodily injury, and represent a substantial danger of physical harm to themselves and others. This population and our communities are best served when this population is monitored by state parole officers.
I look forward to working with the Governor's administration to ensure the passage of these policies and am thankful for his willingness to revisit these issues to ensure that our communities are safe."
Source: Holden press release
- Brad Haugaard
Bears Are Back - Be Bear Aware
Monrovia Police: Nine Years in Jail for Verbal Threats; Unlocked Vehicle - Easy Target; DUIs
Long Lost Lamp Returns to Monrovia
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia's Birthday Party Saturday
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia High Rubik's Cube Club
- Brad Haugaard
Keychain Monrovia Library Card
Monrovia Condo Construction Begins | Arts Association Fundraiser
~ Monrovia Association of Fine Arts will hold its 13th annual fundraiser - "Acknowledge the Arts" on Friday June 21. http://goo.gl/ovJsR
- Brad Haugaard
Firey Hot | Old Town Leader Steps Down
~ After more than 10 years, Brian Whelan steps down as chairman of the Monrovia Old Town Advisory Board. http://goo.gl/80s56
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Watch for the Prepaid Money Card Scam; Kicking Cars; Walking in Burned Area; Etc.
Miyachi Unitek Expands in Monrovia | Little League Moms
~ LA Times features Monrovia Little League moms for Mothers Day. http://goo.gl/4W8gK
- Brad Haugaard
Civiltec to Manage Monrovia's Station Square Project | Number 2 in Baseball
~ Monrovia finishes second in baseball league. http://goo.gl/9zaVk
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Mayor's Green-Car Buying Experience Will Be on Local Cable
- Brad Haugaard
Isla Vista Night at First Presbyterian Church | Monrovia High Dress Code | Pancakes Tomorrow!
~ A night of music and worship at First Presbyterian Church of Monrovia, with "Isla Vista Worship" from Isla Vista Church, Isla Vista, California, and Worship Leader Mac Montgomery.
~ Ever wonder what Monrovia High's dress code was 50 years ago? Yeah, me neather, but here it is: "Skirts could not be any higher than mid-thigh and shirts always had to be tucked in." And, a humorous word for today's boys: "We know why your pants have been sagging so much. We realize it is not your fault, it is the belt manufacturers. So, if you have a defective belt, come to my office and I will give you, free of charge, a brand new set of suspenders to keep your pants up. Wow, what a fashion statement you will make." http://goo.gl/AFzQI
~ Monrovia firefighter's pancake breakfast tomorrow (Saturday) from 7-11 a.m. at the Lemon Ave. station. http://goo.gl/xsSRo
- Brad Haugaard
New Horizons Exhibit at Segil Fine Art
A new exhibition, "Chasing New Horizons," featuring oil paintings by Scott Dienhart, May 11 through June 8 at Segil Fine Art, 110 West Lime.
- Brad Haugaard
Home Depot to Add a Cafe In Front
- Brad Haugaard
Lunch at Mayan Bar and Grill
Monrovia Congresswoman Speech on Mental Health Awareness
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia-Made Drone: Keeping an Eye on the Greater Sage Grouse
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Store Isn't Faked-Out Second Time; He Reeealy Didn't Want to Chat; Not Your Standard Preacher; Etc.
Ford Selects AeroVironment | Will Monrovia Win a Top Softball Spot? | Book Sale
~ Monrovia in the race for a top spot in softball. http://goo.gl/jrmL4
~ Monrovia Friends of the Library book sale, Friday and Saturday, May 17-18 from noon to 5 p.m. $2 a bag sale will be Saturday from 4-5 p.m. No scanners, cell phones and other electronic devices at the sale. http://goo.gl/sRleY
- Brad Haugaard