Celebrated the end of 2020 with dinner from Cafe Mundial, on the east side of Myrtle half a block north of Colorado. Got the Salmon Filet for $22 with a side Caesar Salad for $5. It was a good finish to a bad year.
- Brad Haugaard
Dinner from Cafe Mundial
Celebrated the end of 2020 with dinner from Cafe Mundial, on the east side of Myrtle half a block north of Colorado. Got the Salmon Filet for $22 with a side Caesar Salad for $5. It was a good finish to a bad year.
Weekly Coronavirus Count: 219 More Cases, 2 More Deaths
Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m.,
12/30/2020. Changes since
12/23/2020.
City of Monrovia: 1964 cases (up 219), 43 deaths (up 2)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 224 cases (up 25), 1 death (unchanged)
- Brad Haugaard
City of Monrovia: 1964 cases (up 219), 43 deaths (up 2)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 224 cases (up 25), 1 death (unchanged)
- Brad Haugaard
Bolt - A Mellow and Chill Dog
The adoption fee for dogs is $140. All dog adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.
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.
View photos of adoptable pets and schedule a virtual adoption appointment at pasadenahumane.org. Adoptions are by appointment only, and new adoption appointments are available every Sunday at 10:00 a.m. for the following week.
Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Driver Hits Tree, Runs Off; Gunpoint Robbery; They Arrest Each Other; Thefts from Vehicles; Thief Trades Purse for His Cell Phone; Auto Thief Suspect Arrested Using 'Find My' App
Hit & Run Traffic Collision
December 17 at 8:24 a.m., a caller reported a driver exited the 210 freeway at Huntington, and collided into a tree in a restaurant parking lot across the street from the exit. The driver abandoned the vehicle, then fled the scene on foot. Officers searched for the driver but were unable to locate him. The vehicle was towed. This investigation is continuing.
Armed Robbery
December 18 at 4:09 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of W. Pomona called to report that he had just been robbed at gun point. He said he was approached by a male subject who exited a black SUV. He stated the subject told him to give him everything he had while waving a gun in his face. This investigation is continuing.
Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
December 18 at 5:06 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of W. Colorado called to report a physical altercation between his brother and his brother's wife just occurred. Officers arrived and spoke with both subjects. An investigation was conducted and it was determined the wife was the aggressor. She was arrested and taken into custody.
Trespassing / Battery – Suspects Arrested
December 18 at 11:45 a.m., employees of a business in the 200 block of Railroad reported a suspicious person dressed in black filming in the business' private parking lot. Officers arrived and the subject moved to the public sidewalk. The business did not want to prosecute for trespassing. After officers left, the subject began instigating a fight with employees. One employee approached the subject and battered him. The subject in return used pepper spray on the employee. Officers were dispatched to the location again, and both parties placed one another under private person’s arrest. Officers arrested both parties.
Vehicle Burglary
December 18 at 4:20 p.m., a resident in the 300 block of Genoa called to report a vehicle burglary. The resident walked outside her home and discovered someone had forced entry into her parked vehicle, then took her personal property. Officers arrived and took a report of the incident. This investigation is continuing.
Residential Burglary
December 18 at 7:41 p.m., a resident in the 700 block of Mountain View returned home from work and saw his front door was ajar. Moments later a male subject exited the front door, saw the home owner, and ran back into the house. He continued out the back door and through neighboring yards. The home owner called the police and waited outside until the police arrived. Officers checked the area and the house, but did not locate the suspect. It was unknown what was taken at the time of the report. This investigation is continuing.
Reckless Driving / Resisting Arrest
December 18 at 7:49 p.m., a resident in the 900 block of Greystone called to report a motorcyclist speeding up and down the street with the headlights off. Officers checked the area and located the motorcyclist. He was speeding, failed to stop at a stop sign, was not wearing a helmet, and the headlights were off. Several vehicles were driving in the area due to the neighborhood Christmas lights. The subject was identified by officers from previous encounters. Officers attempted a traffic stop, but the subject did not comply. He continued to drive to his residence where he quickly went into the backyard with his motorcycle. A police report was done and will be forwarded to the District Attorney's Office for filling considerations.
Grand Theft
December 19 at 1:26 a.m., an employee from a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain called to report four male subjects had just taken pallets of merchandise. They left the location prior to the police being notified. Officers responded and investigated the matter. This investigation is continuing.
Domestic Battery
December 19 at 8:48 p.m., a female in the 600 block of E. Olive called to report a battery. The female stated that during a monitored child visitation with her ex-boyfriend, the male pulled her hair and pushed her multiple times. The child was present, but sleeping during the incident. The female sustained no injuries. Officers arrived to the location, but the male subject was not located. This investigation is continuing.
Grand Theft
December 20 at 3:47 a.m., a witness observed two males in the parking lot of a business in the 1200 block of S. Myrtle, removing the catalytic converter from underneath a truck. Officers arrived within minutes, but the suspects had already fled the area. This investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
December 20 at 11:06 a.m., an employee of a furniture store in the 400 block of W. Huntington called to report a vehicle burglary. The employee walked outside to her vehicle and discovered the windows were shattered and her personal property from inside the vehicle was taken. This investigation is continuing.
Non-injury Traffic Collision
December 20 at 11:28 a.m., a caller reported two motorists collided into one another in the 1900 block of S. Myrtle. Officers responded and found no one was injured. Both drivers chose to exchange information only.
Attempt Theft
December 20 at 12:28 p.m., a resident in the 1600 block of Pilgrim reported male subjects attempted to take a catalytic converter from her family's vehicle. The subjects were scared away by the resident’s father who ran after the suspects. The suspects fled in a vehicle. Officers searched for the suspects, but could not locate them. This investigation is continuing.
Commercial Burglary – Suspect Arrested
December 20 at 12:36 p.m., the manager of a hotel in the 700 block of W. Huntington reported she discovered a male subject inside the hotel's locked conference room. Officers arrived and found the subject had entered the conference room by forcing entry to an exterior window. He said his intention was to take property from inside the room. He was arrested for burglary.
Domestic Violence / Violation of a Restraining Order – Suspect Arrested
December 20 at 1:23 p.m., a resident in the 1400 block of S. Magnolia called to report a physical altercation had just occurred between her and her long-time boyfriend. Officers arrived and found the subjects together in violation of a valid Domestic Violence Restraining Order. The caller had visible injuries caused by her boyfriend battering her. He was arrested and taken into custody.
Theft from a Vehicle
December 20 at 1:35 p.m., a resident in the 1800 block of Tenth Avenue reported someone had stolen the catalytic converter from his Jeep sometime during the day. His Jeep had been parked in front of his home. This investigation is continuing.
Disturbing Subject
December 20 at 4:15 p.m., the pastor of a church in the 700 block of S. Shamrock called for assistance with a parishioner that was yelling at him and causing a disturbance to others. Officers arrived and kept the peace.
Theft from a Vehicle
December 20 at 4:35 p.m., the customer of a grocery store in the 100 block of W. Foothill walked outside to her car and discovered her car had been ransacked and her purse was missing. She found a cell phone in the car that did not belong to her. Before leaving, a male subject approached her and handed her purse back to her apologizing for taking her purse, then asked if he could have his cell phone back. She gave the phone back to the subject, then left the area. Officers searched for the suspect, but could not locate him.
Residential Burglary / Grand Theft Auto – Suspect Arrested
December 20 at 9:43 p.m., a caller in the 300 block of E. Palm said she heard someone breaking into her residence. She told dispatch that it was actually her son who was not allowed at the home. Officers arrived, but the son had already left after taking the family vehicle. The vehicle was reported stolen. A few hours later, the victim called the police to report he found his vehicle parked in a parking lot in the 1600 block of S. Mountain. His son who stole the vehicle was inside. Officers responded and arrested the suspect. There was a pending restraining order which needed to be served, the suspect was served with the Court Order while he was in custody with the Monrovia Police Department.
Burglary / Grand Theft Auto – Suspect Arrested
December 22 at 8:42 a.m., a caller from a business in the 1100 block of E. Huntington said that the location had been burglarized in the early morning hours. Officers arrived and saw there were numerous items stolen along with a vehicle. The vehicle was entered into the law enforcement stolen vehicle system and was soon after located in San Dimas. The Monrovia Police Department Detectives arrived at the San Dimas location and arrested the suspect.
Grand Theft Auto – Suspect Arrested
December 22 at 11:59 a.m., a victim in the 1800 block of Enterprise Way called to report his vehicle had been stolen sometime in the morning. Officers arrived and determined the vehicle had been unlocked with the key left in the ignition. The vehicle was entered into the law enforcement stolen vehicle system. The victim also advised that his wallet and Apple iPad were inside the vehicle when it was taken. The victim used the Find My iPad app, and saw it was in Palm Springs. Palm Springs Police Department was notified and located the vehicle occupied by one male suspect. The suspect was arrested and booked by Palm Springs Police Department.
Homicide
On December 23 at 8:19 p.m., officers responded to a liquor store in the 400 block of W. Duarte regarding gunshot victim. Officers arrived and saw that there was one male subject lying on the ground inside the store. He was found to have a gunshot wound. The officers immediately began rendering first aid until paramedics from the Monrovia Fire Department arrived to take over. Despite the medical aid the victim died as a result of the injury. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Unit was notified and their detectives responded to take over the investigation.
Christmas Tree Recycling Through January 16
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia and Other Local Fire Departments Getting Vaccinated
Fire Chief Brad Dover gets Covid vaccine.
Monrovia Fire Department reports that it has "partnered with area departments and LA County to start distribution of the COVID19 vaccine" and that they plan to get "all San Gabriel valley firefighters vaccinated this week."
- Brad Haugaard
Snow Topped Mountains
Monday morning there were snow-capped mountains above Monrovia. As seen from City Hall.
- Brad Haugaard
Rain Possible, Sand Bags Available for Residents Below Burned Hillsides
If you reside in these areas, please travel with caution. If you don't, please avoid the area.
If you need gravel and bags, they are available at Recreation Park (620 S Shamrock) in the parking lot off of East Olive Avenue, near the skate park and Barney Glen Baseball Field. Bring your own shovel and eye protection and just take what you need.
- Brad Haugaard
Wednesday Shooting Victim Identified as 27-Year-Old Monrovian Antonio Zaza
The man shot and killed on Duarte Road Wednesday night was a Monrovian, 27-year-old Antonio Zaza, according to MyNewsLA.com: https://is.gd/RuZNii
- Brad Haugaard
Merry Historical Christmas, Monrovia!
Christmas Tree in the Ward Home, 1939, from the Monrovia Historical Society's Legacy Project.
“But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, so that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.” – Galatians 4:4-5
- Brad Haugaard
Weekly Coronavirus Count: First Death in Unincorporated Monrovia
Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m.,
12/23/2020. Changes since
12/16/2020.
City of Monrovia: 1745 cases (up 232), 41 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 199 cases (up 25), 1 deaths up 1
Redell Pine: 2 cases (unchanged), no deaths
- Brad Haugaard
City of Monrovia: 1745 cases (up 232), 41 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 199 cases (up 25), 1 deaths up 1
Redell Pine: 2 cases (unchanged), no deaths
Caltrans Monrovia: 6 cases
Miracle Works: 5 cases
- Brad Haugaard
LA Sheriff's Department to Investigate Shooting Death on Duarte Road
The press release adds that the victim of the shooting, which occurred at approximately 8:19 p.m., "was shot in the chest by unknown suspect(s). He was pronounced dead at the scene by Monrovia Fire Department."
CBS News, citing the LA Sheriff's Department, adds that the shooting occurred at Al’s Liquors, that the victim was inside the store and was shot in the upper torso. https://is.gd/PUYYDZ
- Brad Haugaard
Lunch from Jimmy John’s
Got lunch yesterday at Jimmy John’s, in the Huntington Oaks Shopping Center. Got the Beach Club (turkey, provolone and avocado) on wheat bread (also comes on French bread). $12. Very nice!
- Brad Haugaard
Man Shot and Killed on Duarte Road
- Brad Haugaard
Snowball: Mellow and Easy-Going
Even though the weather in Southern California is sunny, Snowball is the purr-fect cat for the winter season and beyond! This four-year-old kitty will probably win you over with her snow-white fur and striking green eyes, but she also has a great personality. Snowball is the kind of cat who enjoys attention, and will head-butt you to get more. She’s mellow and easy-going, and is looking for a home where she can settle in and really come out of her shell. Snowball can’t wait to bring her chill demeanor to your home all year long!
The adoption fee for cats is $90. All cat adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.
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.
View photos of adoptable pets and schedule a virtual adoption appointment at pasadenahumane.org. Adoptions are by appointment only, and new adoption appointments are available every Sunday at 10:00 a.m. for the following week.
Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email.
- Brad Haugaard
Trader Joe's Recalling Lightly Salted Edamame
- Brad Haugaard
KGEM's Third Annual Holiday Special
Here is Community Media of the Foothills' third Annual Holiday Special. Lots of music and thoughts from various city people, including KGEM host Ralph Walker, City Manager Dylan Feik, School Board Member Jennifer Anderson, Police Chief Alan Sanvictores, leaders at KGEM, plus, How to make the Palomares Family's pretzel salad and a nighttime drive through Monrovia showing Christmas decorations.
- Brad Haugaard
Toy and Canned Food Drive Saturday
Tomorrow, Dec. 19, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Monrovia Police Officers' Association will partner with Detail Union for a drive-through toy and canned food drop-off. If you would like to contribute, please bring unwrapped toys or canned food to Detail Union, located at 1311 S. Shamrock Ave.
- Brad Haugaard
Helicopter Power-Pole Replacement in Wilderness Preserve
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia-Made Keepsakes from Bobcat-Burned Trees Support Community
Take home a piece of Canyon Park and give a gift that supports our Monrovia community.
The Monrovia Parks, Wilderness and Recreation Foundation is raising money to support its work by selling this ornament/keepsake handcrafted in Monrovia using fallen trees from Canyon Park that burned during the Bobcat Fire. Proceeds go to supporting the mission of the foundation.
For one week (through December 22), any person making a donation of at least $30 will receive one holiday ornament/keepsake as a thank you.
For questions email empower@monroviapwr.org.
To support the foundation's work, click here: https://is.gd/6POM04
- Brad Haugaard
Weekly Coronavirus Count: 208 More Cases, No New Deaths
Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m.,
12/16/2020. Changes since
12/09/2020.
City of Monrovia: 1513 cases (up 208), 41 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 174 cases (up 32), no deaths
Redell Pine: 2 cases (unchanged), no deaths
Caltrans Monrovia 4 cases, no deaths
Miracle Works 5 cases, no deaths
- Brad Haugaard
City of Monrovia: 1513 cases (up 208), 41 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 174 cases (up 32), no deaths
Redell Pine: 2 cases (unchanged), no deaths
Caltrans Monrovia 4 cases, no deaths
Miracle Works 5 cases, no deaths
- Brad Haugaard
City Hall Phones Off the Hook Friday Afternoon
- Brad Haugaard
Dinner from Luscious Dumplings
Okay, this is embarrassing. This photo is of what is left over after we ate it all. I forgot to take a picture of all the food listed below before we started eating (I think I was anxious to get to it), but the dumplings looked like this - but there were lots and lots more of them. Anyway, got dinner from Luscious Dumplings, in the shopping center on Duarte Road at Sixth. Got Angus beef rice bowl; Angus stewed beef noodle soup; pan-fried chive pockets; boiled chive, pork, egg and shrimp dumplings; pan-fried chicken dumplings; pan-fried pork dumplings; and steamed soup dumplings. Used DoorDash. Each item was about $11. Cost for food was $76.50, plus tax, a service fee of $11.48, and a driver tip. It was indeed luscious.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Gunpoint Robbery of Customer at Gas Station; Woman Attacks With Box Cutter; Daughter Batters Mom; Ring Camera Leads to Arrest; Arson Suspected in Bush Fire; Man Steals Tip Jar; Etc.
Mail Tampering
December 10 at 10:00 am, a resident in the 200 block of Linwood called police to report someone had broken into his mailbox during the early morning hours and scattered his mail all over the street. It is unknown if any mail was missing. Investigation continuing.
Fraud Report
December 10 at 4:48 pm, a resident in the 400 block of Monrovista reported she had recently signed up for unemployment benefits and was waiting for her EDD card to be delivered, but it never came. She checked online and discovered a large sum of money had been fraudulently withdrawn without her permission. Investigation continuing.
Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 11 at 2:41 am, an officer conducted a traffic stop in the 1000 block of S. Alta Vista, and during his investigation, he discovered the driver had several outstanding warrants. The driver was arrested without incident.
Battery
December 11 at 7:42 am, a resident in the 1400 block of S. Magnolia reported her adult daughter had just battered her, then drove away from the area. Officers searched for the suspect, but could not locate her. This investigation is continuing.
Petty Theft
December 11 at 8:22 am, workers at a demolition site in the 1900 block of S. Myrtle reported some of their tools had been stolen sometime during the night. The tools were not left in a secured location. This investigation is continuing.
Court Order Violation
December 11 at 10:35 pm, officers were dispatched to the area of Greystone and Hillcrest regarding a subject loitering in the area. When officers arrived, they located the subject and discovered he had been near his grandparents’ residence in violation of a current court order. The subject was arrested.
Commercial Burglary
December 12 at 12:28 am, the owner of a business in the 200 block of W. Duarte was alerted by his Ring camera that someone was inside his business. The owner was able to provide information as to the subject's movements. Officers arrived in the area and found the subject on Myrtle and Pomona. They detained the subject and he was positively identified. The subject was arrested and the officers located the property that was taken.
Commercial Burglary
December 12 at 5:47 pm, the owner of a storage unit located in the 2100 block of S. Myrtle discovered someone had forced entry into the locked unit and burglarized it. This investigation is continuing.
Assault with a Deadly Weapon
December 13 at 11:04 am, a caller reported she was at the corner of Colorado and Alta Vista and had just been cut with a box cutter by an unknown female subject who fled the area. The caller could not explain why the suspect cut her. Officers searched for the alleged suspect, but could not locate her. The caller's injury was a shallow cut to her abdomen, and she was transported to a nearby hospital for medical care. This investigation is continuing.
Arson
December 14 at 1:27 am, a resident in the 400 block of E. Greystone called to report that bushes were on fire. Officers responded and found the hedge in front of the residence was fully engulfed with flames, approximately 20 feet into the air. An officer was able to extinguish the fire with a garden hose. Monrovia Fire arrived on scene and completely extinguished the flames and smoldering area. Evidence was recovered at the scene. Investigation continuing.
Possession of Burglary Tools
December 14 at 1:39 am, police dispatch received an alarm activation at a business in the 1400 block of S. Mountain. The alarm company accessed the buildings video surveillance and saw a male subject hiding behind cars. Officers arrived on scene and located the subject lying on the ground. He was in possession of tools and a car jack. The subject admitted to coming to the location to steal a BMW rim, but before he could start removing the rim, he was detained by police. He was arrested.
Arson
December 14 at 3:47 am, a resident in the 100 block of S. Mayflower called to report that the contents of a dumpster were on fire. Officers arrived and extinguished the fire. No one was in the area. The neighborhood was canvassed for video surveillance. Investigation continuing.
Grand Theft
December 14 at 8:46 pm, a female subject entered a business in the 1500 block of S. Myrtle to get gasoline. As she was filling up her vehicle, the suspect opened the front driver's side door and took her purse containing the keys to her vehicle and fled. The vehicle had to be towed to her residence. Surveillance footage was available. Investigation continuing.
Petty Theft
December 14 at 10:22 pm, an employee from a business in the 100 block of S. Myrtle called police to report a male subject in his 30's, wearing a white, blue, and black hoodie, walked inside and stole the tip jar containing cash. The suspect then fled on foot. Surveillance footage is available and the investigation is continuing.
Injury Traffic Collision
December 15 at 5:40 pm, a pedestrian was crossing California with a shopping cart when she was struck by a vehicle traveling north on California. The pedestrian was treated by paramedics at the scene and released.
Armed Robbery
December 16 at 7:10 am, officers were dispatched to a business in the 1600 block of S. Myrtle on the report of an armed robbery that just occurred. The victim reported he had been robbed at gunpoint. He was fueling his vehicle at a gas station when the suspect approached him armed with a smaller, semi-automatic pistol and demanded his money and wallet. The victim complied and the suspect fled through a nearby alley, where he got into a dark colored Honda Civic and drove away. The investigation is continuing.
Mary Ann Lutz Takes Begins Her Service on Citrus College Board
Lutz has served in a variety of government positions, most recently as government liaison/policy advisor to U.S. Rep. Grace F. Napolitano. She also spent six years as the mayor of Monrovia, after being elected in 2009 and reelected in 2011 and 2013; and six years as a member of the Monrovia City Council.
"I am so grateful for this opportunity to serve on Citrus College’s board of trustees," Lutz said. "This board has always worked together to achieve the common goal of increasing student success, and I am looking forward to contributing to this effort. I hope to build upon Mrs. Montgomery’s legacy and will ensure that the district thrives despite the challenging times in which we now live."
Source: Citrus College press release
- Brad Haugaard
Long Time Monrovia Educator, Joanne Montgomery, Has Died
Long time Monrovian, Joanne Montgomery, who just retired last month after 22 years of service on the Citrus College Board of Trustees, has died. City Council member Becky Shevlin said she believes Montgomery was about 86 years old.
Shevlin writes: "Our Monrovia community lost one of its heroes... Joanne was a beloved Monrovia Unified School District teacher, Citrus College board member and was active in countless other community organizations. Joanne was a beautiful example of sharing love and support for all who knew her. She will be missed.The announcement of her retirement early last month included this information:
She began her career as an educator and worked as an elementary school teacher for the Monrovia Unified School District for 32 years. She was also a master teacher for several universities and served on numerous school committees.
"During her more than 20 years of service to Citrus College and the communities it serves, Trustee Montgomery has contributed greatly to the college's growth and progress. Her leadership has been instrumental in establishing Citrus College as a national leader in higher education," said Dr. Geraldine M. Perri, superintendent/president of Citrus College. "On behalf of the college community, I congratulate Trustee Montgomery on her retirement and thank her for the decades of guidance and vision she has provided. Her presence at the college will be dearly missed."
Throughout her career, Montgomery received awards as an educator and community leader. Some of her honors include a Teacher of the Year award; being appointed by the California governor to serve on the board of directors for the 48th District Agricultural Association, where she served for more than 16 years; being selected as the 2003 recipient of the Dick Lord Award from the Monrovia Chamber of Commerce; being named the 2015 Woman of the Year for Monrovia for California's 48th State Assembly district; and the Outstanding Educator Award from the Monrovia Duarte Black Alumni Association. Most recently, in May 2019, Trustee Montgomery received a Fulfilling the Trust award from the Community College League of California.
Montgomery had a reputation for understanding how big-picture decision-making affected instructors and students. She was a passionate advocate for AB 288, which allowed high school students to take college-credit courses while still in high school, and she tirelessly promoted Citrus College.
- Brad Haugaard
Christmas Home and Business Decorating Contest Winners
The City of Monrovia has announced the winners of the 2020 Holiday Home Decorating Contest and Old Town Monrovia Window Decorating Contest. Here they are:
Home Contest Winners
Best Still Display: 2102 S. Myrtle Avenue
Best Outdoor Display: 633 King Street
Most Effective use of Lighting: 276 N. Primrose Avenue
Best Neighborhood Effort: 517 Valmont Place & Valmont Drive
Santa's Workshop Award: 333 Norumbega Drive
Holiday Spirit Award: 1510 Pilgrim Way
Judge's Award: 209 S. Sunset Place
Children's Choice Award: 826 Ocean View Avenue
Business Contest Winners
Best Overall Display: House of Windsor, 526 S. Myrtle Avenue
Most Creative Display: Saint Clark Bridal, 519 S. Myrtle Avenue
Best Holiday Display: Douglas Elliman Real Estate, 517 S. Myrtle Avenue
Judge's Award: Monrovia Floral, 119 E. Olive Avenue
Most Spectacular Display: Civiltec Engineering, 118 W. Lime Avenue
- Brad Haugaard
Last School Food Distribution of Year on Dec. 18
Meal distribution service will resume on Monday, January 4, 2021, from 7:30 am – 11:30 am at all of our school sites. For questions, contact Alex Pelayo at 471-2054.
Source: Monrovia Schools press release
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
School Board to Reorganize, Honor Former Members Wong and Gililland
- Brad Haugaard
Friendly, Intelligent, Affectionate Dog Seeks Perfect Person
Three-year-old Solange was found injured under a freeway overpass, and our veterinarians suspected she may have been hit by a car. She underwent surgery to repair her fractured femur, and since then has healed wonderfully and blossomed into such a sweet dog! Now that Solange has recovered, she has so much energy and loves to play. She’ll even toss her toys up in the air and catch them! Solange is friendly, intelligent, and affectionate – all she needs now is her perfect person.
Solange is eligible for a 30-day adoption trial. Bring her home with all the supplies, get to know her, and at the end of 30 days, decide if you’d like to adopt. Email foster@pasadenahumane.org to get started with your 30-day adoption trial.
The adoption fee for dogs is $140. All dog adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.
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.
School District Given 30,800 Covid Masks
Comment: That's a lotta masks!
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Church Delivers Five Vehicle-Loads of Toys to Boys and Girls Club
Monrovia’s Fellowship Church reports that it’s toy drive for the Monrovia Boys & Girls Club last month brought in “so many donations that it took five vehicles to bring all the toys back to the Boys & Girls Club site.”
- Brad Haugaard
Playgrounds Reopen; Submit Questions for 'State of City' Address; Crosswalk Modification at Lucinda Garcia Park; Ridgeside/Oakglade Preparations
In his latest report (https://goo.gl/aOqX7O) City Manager Dylan Feik reports:
~ Playgrounds have been reopened. Wear a mask, keep six feet of separation, wash hands.
~ Have thoughts on what questions the 2021 State of the City address should address? Submit them here: https://is.gd/4DCYja
~ The crosswalks at the intersection of Olive and Mayflower were put in to make it easier for pedestrians to access Lucinda Garcia Park. Unfortunately, the south-side crosswalk "did not leave sufficient room for motorists to make a left hand turn from Olive Avenue onto Mayflower Avenues." So it's being removed.
~ If you live on or near Ridgeside, Oakglade, or Canyon Park, you may wish to watch this video (about 56 minutes) that describes the city's plan to prevent mudflow damage. Hint - K-rail. https://is.gd/eirZlM
- Brad Haugaard
Weekly Coronavirus Count: 135 More Cases, No New Deaths
Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m.,
12/09/2020. Changes since
12/02/2020.
City of Monrovia: 1,305 cases (up 135), 41 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 142 cases (up 34), no deaths
Redell Pine (residential facility): 2 cases, no deaths
City of Monrovia: 1,305 cases (up 135), 41 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 142 cases (up 34), no deaths
Redell Pine (residential facility): 2 cases, no deaths
Correction: The increase for the City of Monrovia and Unincorporated Monrovia were incorrect. I've corrected them.
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Dinner from Jake’s Roadhouse
Got a Family Barbecue Dinner for $55 from Jake’s Roadhouse, on the east side of Myrtle a bit north of Olive. We chose tri tip and ribs. It came with six sides and muffins. Very tasty. I especially liked the ribs.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Attempted Murder; Mail Thefts; Burglaries; Etc.
Fraud
December 3 at 11:26 a.m., a resident in the 600 block of W. Lime called police to report a fraud incident. The resident had discovered someone had been ordering items using her Amazon account without her permission. An investigation revealed the account was linked to her credit card. She said some of the items had already shipped. This investigation is continuing.
Attempt Grand Theft Auto
December 3 at 3:59 p.m., a resident in the 1800 block of Eighth Avenue walked outside his home to go to work and discovered someone had forced entry into his vehicle and attempted to tamper with the ignition. The suspect was unsuccessful in taking the vehicle and fled. This investigation is continuing.
Mail Theft
December 4 at 3:06 a.m., an officer was on patrol near the intersection of Norumbega and Valmont when he discovered mail scattered in the street. More mail was found scattered from numerous residences on Norumbega. This investigation is continuing.
Burglary
December 4 at 9:49 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of W. Cypress discovered someone had rummaged through his locked storage box behind his house, which is off an alley. The suspect took miscellaneous car parts and then fled. This investigation is continuing.
Mail Tampering
December 4 at 10:02 a.m., management of an apartment complex in the 200 block of W. Pomona discovered someone had opened packages and mail belonging to several different tenants, then left the packages in the lobby of the complex. This investigation is continuing.
Burglary
December 4 at 10:26 a.m., a resident in the 900 block of S. Myrtle called police to report that someone had broken into his neighbor’s storage container. The container had been rummaged through. The owner of the storage container was notified and was responding from out of town. This investigation is continuing.
Fraud
December 4 at 11:41 a.m., a resident in the 500 block of Norumbega discovered checks she had mailed through the U.S. Post Office had not arrived at their destination. Investigation revealed they had been taken and cashed by someone other than the recipient. This investigation is continuing.
Non-Injury Hit & Run Traffic Collision
December 4 at 3:41 p.m., a motorist called police to report being hit by another driver who collided into the back of her vehicle at the intersection of Monterey and Parker. The driver fled the scene without stopping. Officers arrived and checked the area, but did not locate the suspect vehicle. The victim was not injured. This investigation is continuing.
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
December 5 at 9:43 a.m., an officer stopped a motorist in the 1400 block of S. Myrtle for a driving violation. An investigation revealed the driver was in possession of drug paraphernalia. The driver was arrested.
Injury Traffic Collision
December 5 at 11:12 a.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 700 block of W. Huntington. Officers arrived and conducted an investigation. Both drivers complained of pain so paramedics also responded to the scene. The driver who was found to be at fault was issued a citation.
Non-Injury Traffic Collision
December 5 at 1:29 p.m., a caller reported two motorists collided into one another at the intersection of California and Walnut. The caller reported no one was injured. Officers arrived and facilitated an exchange of information only.
Shots Fired
December 5 at 9:47 p.m., officers responded to a shooting that occurred in the 300 block of W. Duarte. No one was injured. Evidence of the shooting was recovered at the scene. Detectives arrived on scene and took over the investigation. The investigation is continuing.
Attempt Murder
December 5 at 9:50 p.m., officers responded to the 400 block of W. Huntington regarding a call of shots heard in the area. Moments later, dispatch received a call indicating two adult males had sustained gunshot wounds while driving in the 400 block of W. Huntington. They immediately drove home and called the police. Officers and paramedics responded and treated the victims. They were transported to a local hospital with nonlife-threatening injuries. This investigation is continuing.
Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
December 6 at 8:03 p.m., an officer patrolling the 300 block of W. Duarte observed a bicycle riding without a front light in violation of the vehicle code. The officer stopped the rider, and an investigation revealed he was in possession of a controlled substance. The rider was arrested and issued a citation.
Burglary
December 7 at 7:16 a.m., an employee of a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington arrived to work and noticed the front glass window was broken. Officers arrived and contacted the property owner. During the investigation, it was learned that the glass window was broken and the suspects removed the cash register. This investigation is continuing.
Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 7 at 11:26 p.m., an officer was patrolling the area around Station Square and saw a subject on a bicycle fail to stop at a red light traffic signal. The officer stopped the bicyclist. An investigation revealed the subject had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested per the authority of the warrant.
Vehicle Burglary
On December 9 at 4:14 a.m., a possible vehicle burglary was reported in the 200 block of E. Pomona. The victim called police to report that the alarm was going off on his vehicle. Officers arrived and saw that someone had broken into the vehicle. This investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
December 9 at 2:25 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 600 block of W. Huntington. During the investigation, the officer was able to obtain evidence possibly identifying the suspect. The next day, the officer drove to a residence in search of the vehicle used in the crime and located it in a rear parking lot of an apartment complex. The victim's property could be seen inside the vehicle. The officer had the vehicle towed to the police station, and after a search warrant was obtained, various items taken from the victim were recovered. This investigation is continuing.
Medical Assist
December 9 at 12:45 p.m., a female subject called police dispatch to report a male subject that was down and not breathing. An officer responded and, upon arrival, administered two doses of Narcan and the subject recovered. Paramedics arrived and treated the subject at the scene. He was transported to a local hospital for further treatment.
Memorial Fund Created for Monrovia Student Who Died
Update: Now, more than $11,500 has been contributed.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia School District Webinar on 'Hybrid Model of Learning'
To join either of the webinars mentioned above, please register by clicking on the links below:
10 a.m. https://is.gd/SUVOJQ
6 p.m. https://is.gd/oLvhaA
Source: Monrovia Schools press release
- Brad Haugaard
Police Arrest Suspect in Sunday Shooting
On the evening of Tuesday, December 8, Monrovia Police Department Detective Bureau personnel, with assistance from the L.A. IMPACT regional task force, located the suspect in the city of La Puente. The suspect was arrested without incident on a charge of attanpted murder and is currently being held in custody at the Los Angeles County Men's Central Jail.
While an arrest has been made this incident is still considered to be under investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Monrovia Police Department Detective Bureau Commander at (626) 256-8041. For general inquiries please contact the Watch Commander at (626) 256-8000.
Source: Monrovia Police press release
- Brad Haugaard
Bob - Handsome Kitty With a Big Personality
Two-year-old Bob is active, energetic, and loves attention! This handsome kitty would do best in a home with an experienced cat person who is not only savvy with cat body language, but can also give Bob all the mental stimulation (like puzzle feeders and lots of playtime) he needs to be happy. Bob is an enthusiastic guy who purrs when he’s touched and eagerly accepts treats. He has such a big personality!
The adoption fee for cats is $90. All cat adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.
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.
View photos of adoptable pets and schedule a virtual adoption appointment at pasadenahumane.org. Adoptions are by appointment only, and new adoption appointments are available every Monday at 10:00 a.m. for the following week.
Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Superintendent Reports Death of High School Student
It is with a heavy heart that we must inform you that one of our high school students tragically passed away on Saturday, December 5, 2020. This will be a painful time for the student’s family, friends, and classmates. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
We will offer grief counseling for students and staff starting Monday, December 7, 2020, and continuing as long as needed. Members of our crisis response team, including counselors, school psychologists, and D’veal Family & Youth Services therapists are available.
To make an appointment for individual counseling, please contact your school administrator or counselor by email or phone. Our school counselors can make appointments to provide counseling services while following pandemic guidelines for social distancing.
The family has requested that information about the cause of death not be shared at this time. We are aware there have been rumors that this was a death by suicide. Since the subject of suicide has been raised, we would like to remind you that suicide is a complex act with many causes.
I am including our district link to mental health services. Our resources include links to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, as well as other mental health resources for your child or family. I’ve also attached a document on how to discuss suicide with your child.
We also will host a webinar on suicide awareness and prevention with D’veal Family & Youth Services at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 8, 2020. This webinar will identify risk factors and warning signs of suicide. See ParentSquare communication for the Zoom webinar.
D’veal Family & Youth Services also holds office hours from 5:30 to 6 p.m. every weekday.
- Brad Haugaard
Covid Makes Monrovia Suspend Most Parking Enforcement; Possible Power Outage in Northwest Monrovia
~ That because the LA County Department of Public Health says Intensive Care Unit capacity has fallen below 15 percent, "effective immediately, the City will suspend parking enforcement activities except for illegal parking considered a hazard or danger to the public such as blocking a fire hydrant, parking in a red zone, or parking in a designated ADA stall. Please continue to be mindful of your street sweeping and trash pick-up schedules, as those services will continue."
~ SoCal Edison (SCE) may shut off power in part of Monrovia because of Santa Ana winds predicted through tomorrow evening, which may constitute a fire danger. The area that MAY be affected is roughly north of Foothill from the Arcadia border east to Mayflower.
- Brad Haugaard
Two Shooting Incidents Saturday Night in Monrovia
Officers responded to the 300 block of W. Duarte regarding a "shots heard" call in the area. Moments later, another "shots heard" call was received tor the 400 block of W. Huntington. Two male adults sustained gunshot wounds. They were transported to a local hospital for treatment. Evidence of the shooting was recovered at the scene. The motive for the shooting remains unclear.
No additional information is available for release at this time due to this being an active investigation,
Anyone with information is urged to call the Monrovia Police Department Detective Bureau at (626) 256-8041.
Source: Monrovia Police Department press release
- Brad Haugaard
Wind Monday Evening to Noon Tuesday
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Historical Society Unveils 83 Videos on Monrovia History
During this months-long project Historical Society Vice President Sandy Burud interviewed Baker - a fifth generation Monrovian with a gift for storytelling - about the great bank robbery of 1908, a murder, an explosion, the fire that destroyed our grand old hotel, early architecture, churches, schools, movie theaters, film studios, and dozens more topics.
A selection of videos is on the Monrovia Historical Society web page (monroviahistoricalsociety.org/monrovia-stories), but many more are on its YouTube Channel, here: . Or, just search YouTube for "Monrovia Historical Society."
The Monrovia Historical Society's goal is to “preserve and share Monrovia’s historical legacy” through the George H. Anderson House at 215 E Lime and the Legacy Project (monroviahistoricalsociety.org/legacy-project), an online collection of 6,000 historic photos and papers.
Old Market Grill Building Being Renovated
The former Monrovia Market and Market Grill building on Shamrock at Colorodo has been gutted. Gem City Images has a good picture. Click through: https://is.gd/ZiURxu
- Brad Haugaard
Weekly Coronavirus Count: 99 More, One More Death
Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m.,
12/02/2020. Changes since
11/25/2020.
City of Monrovia: 1170 cases (up 99), 41 deaths (up 1)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 108 cases (up 11), no deaths
- Brad Haugaard
City of Monrovia: 1170 cases (up 99), 41 deaths (up 1)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 108 cases (up 11), no deaths
- Brad Haugaard
Lunch from JB Burgers
Lunch from JB Burgers, at the corner of Myrtle and Olive. Got the pastrami sandwich for $7.95. Really good!
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Attempted Murder; Grandson Lights Bushes on Fire; Five Vehicles Stolen, Bicycles Too; Etc.
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 323 service events, resulting in 45 investigations.
Vehicle Burglary
November 25 at 7:08 a.m., a resident in the 700 block of W. Walnut called to report her vehicle had been broken into sometime during the early morning hours. She walked out to her vehicle at approximately 6:30 a.m. and saw the front passenger window to her vehicle was shattered. She checked the interior of the vehicle and noticed some personal belongings were missing. Investigation continuing.
Non-Injury Traffic Collision
November 25 at 9:15 a.m., a passerby called police to report a traffic collision that occurred near the intersection of Duarte and Mayflower. An officer arrived and spoke with both drivers. No one was injured and they requested an exchange of information. The officer assisted the drivers with the exchange.
Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
November 25 at 1:47 p.m., a resident in the 300 block of W. Foothill called to report an individual was sleeping on his property without his permission. Officers arrived and contacted the subject, who showed obvious signs of intoxication. It was determined that the subject was too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested for public intoxication and held for a sobering period.
Grand Theft
November 25 at 3:35 p.m., an employee from a business in the 600 block of W. Huntington called police to report two male subjects entered the establishment, grabbed a display rack of watches, and fled on foot. Officers searched the area, but did not locate the suspects. Investigation continuing.
Grand Theft Auto
November 27 at 7:05 a.m., a resident in the 1000 block of E. Lemon walked outside her home and discovered her vehicle was gone. Someone took it without permission sometime during the night. The vehicle was entered into the Stolen Vehicle System. This investigation is continuing.
Hit & Run Traffic Collision
November 27 at 10:53 a.m., a driver reported she was involved in a minor collision in the private parking lot on the corner of Magnolia and Huntington. The other driver fled the area after the collision. Officers searched for the suspect, but could not locate him. This investigation is continuing.
Criminal Threats / Arson – Suspect Arrested
November 27 at 12:16 p.m., residents in the 500 block of E. Greystone reported their son/grandson was at the home kicking at the front door and demanding to be let in the house. The suspect had an active court order restraining him from going near the home. Officers responded, but the suspect was gone and could not be located. At 3:35 p.m., the residents called to report the suspect had returned and had lit one of their bushes on fire. He then yelled at them that he was going to return to kill everyone in the house. The residents ran outside and put the fire out with the garden hose, and then called the police. Officers responded and located the suspect nearby. He was arrested and taken into custody.
Grand Theft Auto
November 27 at 1:39 p.m., a resident in the 600 block of Parker walked outside her home and discovered someone had stolen her 2005, white, Chevrolet truck sometime after 8:00 p.m. the previous night. The vehicle was entered into the Stolen Vehicle System. This investigation is continuing.
Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
November 27 at 2:33 p.m., the management of a grocery store in the 300 block of W. Huntington reported a male subject was inside their store yelling profanities at customers as he rode around on one of their electric shopping carts designed for disabled persons. Security for the store stopped the subject and detained him until officers arrived. Officers found the subject was heavily intoxicated. He was arrested and held for a sobering period. The store signed a no-trespass authorization against the subject as well.
Shoplifting
November 27 at 9:01 p.m., an employee from a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain called to report that a shoplifting had just occurred. A male adult entered the store, selected merchandise, and left without paying. The subject had left prior to police being notified. Investigation continuing.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
November 28 at 12:13 a.m., an officer was patrolling the area of Duarte and Mayflower when he saw a vehicle stopped in the middle of the lane, blocking westbound traffic. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was contacted. The driver displayed signs of being under the influence of alcohol. A DUI investigation was completed and it was determined the driver was operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested and held for and a sobering period.
Grand Theft of Bicycles
November 28 at 7:45 a.m., a resident in the 800 block of W. Walnut walked outside his home and discovered someone had taken several bicycles during the night that he had locked to the open bed of his truck. This investigation is continuing.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
November 28 at 12:51 p.m., a caller reported seeing a motorist stopped in the middle of the street at Huntington and Magnolia, passed out at the wheel. Officers and paramedics responded and found the driver was heavily intoxicated. After field sobriety tests were conducted, the driver was arrested for DUI and held for a sobering period.
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
November 28 at 10:02 p.m., officers were dispatched to a burglary alarm activation at a business in the 1600 block of S. Magnolia. They arrived on scene and saw two subjects leaving the area. The subjects were contacted and questioned. Two additional officers checked the business and found no signs of a crime. During the interaction with the two subjects, one of them admitted to having drug paraphernalia in his possession. He was arrested and issued a citation to appear in court on the charges.
Attempt Murder
November 29 at 1:29 a.m., a resident in the 400 block of E. Maple called police to report shots heard in the area. Officers responded and located a victim, who sustained two gunshot wounds. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Evidence of the shooting was recovered at the scene. Monrovia Police Department detectives arrived on scene and took over the investigation, which is ongoing.
Grand Theft Auto
November 29 at 11:07 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of W. Duarte walked outside his home and discovered someone took his grey, 2000, Jeep Grand Cherokee. Officers searched for the vehicle, but could not locate it. The vehicle was entered into the Stolen Vehicle System. This investigation is continuing.
Non-Injury Traffic Collision
November 29 at 12:39 p.m., a motorist reported he just collided with another motorist at the intersection of Duarte and Tenth. Officers arrived and found no one was injured. Both drivers exchanged information.
Grand Theft Auto
November 29 at 12:54 p.m., a resident in the 700 block of S. Canyon discovered his 2002 GMC truck had been stolen sometime over the last two days from where it was parked on the street. Officers searched for the truck, but could not locate it. The vehicle was entered into the Stolen Vehicle System. This investigation is continuing.
Attempt Grand Theft Auto
November 29 at 2:15 p.m., a resident in the 300 block of E. Walnut walked outside his home and discovered someone had attempted to steal his 2002, Chevrolet truck by punching the ignition. The suspect was not successful in taking the vehicle, and had fled the scene. This investigation is continuing.
Grand Theft Auto
November 29 at 2:23 p.m., a resident in the 400 block of E. Maple reported her boyfriend's vehicle had been stolen sometime earlier in the day. She advised that her boyfriend was in the hospital and they did not give anyone permission to take their car, a 2011, white, two-door Lexus. This investigation is continuing.
Petty Theft
November 29 at 8:57 p.m., a petty theft was reported at a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain. The victim was shopping at a store and had set her fanny pack, which contained her wallet, down inside the women's restroom and walked out without it. She was in the checkout line when she realized she had left her pack behind. She went back to the restroom, but her fanny pack and wallet were gone. Investigation continuing.
Petty Theft
November 30 at 9:26 p.m., employees of a business in the 900 block of W. Duarte Road reported that three male subjects in their 20's went inside and stole merchandise. The same subjects had stolen merchandise the previous night. Officers arrived and observed subjects matching the description. When the subjects saw the officers, they all took off running. The suspects could not be located. Investigation continuing.
Duarte Mayor Donates Masks, Sanitizer to Monrovia Schools
The Monrovia School District tweeted:
"City of Duarte Mayor Samuel Kang donated N95 masks, hand sanitizer, and student health packs to MUSD! Board President Rob Hammond and Board Clerk Maritza Travanti were on hand to receive the donation. Also present was Monrovia Council Member Larry Spicer. Thank you, Mayor Kang!"
- Brad Haugaard
First Presbyterian Collecting Food to Give for Christmas
- Brad Haugaard
City Council Annoyed With County Health Department, But Will Stick With It
At the Tuesday City Council meeting Mayor Tom said it seems the County Health Department is making decisions based not on science but “on a whim.” He said it is as if the Highway Patrol said there were too many accidents so they were shutting down all the freeways. Nevertheless, he said, the city has no intention of going it alone.
Anders Corey, a representative of Supervisor Kathryn Barger - said he believes County Health based its no-outdoor-dining decision on a “hunch.”
City Attorney Craig Steele said that even if the city wanted to create its own health department, it couldn't go into effect before July 1 of 2021 at the earliest. Steele suggested the best way forward would simply be political pressure.
- Brad Haugaard
K-Rail Coming to North Monrovia Below Burn Areas
Monrovia is planning to put concrete K-rail barriers along Ridgeside, Oakglade, and in Canyon Park in north Monrovia to prevent damage from possible flooding following the Bobcat Fire. The barriers would likely remain in place for five years. The exact location for rail placement has not been decided.
- Brad Haugaard
County Grants Available to Small Restaurants - Brief Window to Apply
- Brad Haugaard
Retiring Monrovia School Board Member Ed Gililland Reflects on His Years on Board
As I retire from the Monrovia Unified School District I look back on 15 years of service to this great community, our educators, and our students. There are many great memories, a lot of good memories, and a few memories that were not so good.
Great memories include working with some excellent, dedicated, and hard working School Board members and educators. Even though the Board is elected via the political process there was very little political influence in our work or decisions. We all wanted what's best for the students. The greatest memories though are of graduation ceremonies and shaking hands with the students who were ready to go out into the world with the skills and knowledge they would need to succeed. Particularly great were those evenings I was able to shake hands with graduates that had been in kindergarten and first grade classes I visited early in my School Board days.
Really good memories include the establishment of dual immersion language programs, math & science academy at MHS, arts programs, music programs, coding programs, and specialties at each elementary. We were also able to save and improve our Adult School while other Districts lost theirs. So many other great programs have been established and we have seen tremendous growth in academic rigor and success.
Really tough days include the ridiculously tough budget cuts and accompanying staff and program cuts. Also tough were staff and student disciplinary actions.
The only regret I have is that just as we were seeing the opening of a path to academic excellence and closing the achievement gap, we had to close the schools and completely retool our delivery to distance learning.
I thank the wonderful people of Monrovia for the opportunity to serve all these years and the for the great cooperation and sense of community that you create here in this beautiful place we live.
Sweet and Gentle Bear Looking for a Home
The adoption fee for dogs is $140. All dog adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.
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.
View photos of adoptable pets and schedule a virtual adoption appointment at pasadenahumane.org. Adoptions are by appointment only, and new adoption appointments are available every Monday at 10:00 a.m. for the following week.
Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email.
- Brad Haugaard
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