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Historic Monrovia Walking Tour This Saturday

This Saturday, Feb. 5, at 10 a.m., the Monrovia Historic Preservation Group will lead a two-hour journey tracing the town's history from its origins to the present day. Cost is $5 per person. Meet at the southeast corner of Myrtle and Palm Avenues.

- Brad Haugaard

A Moment in Monrovia History: Firehouse No. 2

No. 2 Firehouse, Monrovia, Calif. Postmarked July 22, 1949. . From the Steve Baker collection. See full details here.

For more historic photos and papers, see the Monrovia Historical Society’s complete Legacy Project collection here. Learn more about the Monrovia Historical Society here.

- Brad Haugaard

Oakglade Debris Basin to Be Cleaned Out - Three Weeks of Work

In his latest report (https://goo.gl/aOqX7O) City Manager Dylan Feik writes that Oakglade Debris Basin in north Monrovia needs to be cleaned out after the rain washed a lot of mud and debris down from the hills burned by the Bobcat Fire. The LA County Department of Public Works will be working on it Monday, Jan. 31 to Friday, Feb. 4, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Saturdays as needed. No hauling on Sundays. It will take approximately three weeks.

- Brad Haugaard

City to Consider Tree-Planting Program; Ending On-Street Dining; Measure K Funds; Black History Month; Teacher of the Year


At its next meeting (agenda: https://tny.im/GOHxW) the Monrovia City Council will consider ...

~ A tree planting program throughout the city, starting with the south end of town, which has fewer trees. The city has identified about 455 locations where it could plant new trees. The staff report (https://tny.im/KcMQ1) has an alphabetical list of streets being considered. Comment: It would have been nice - since we're still in a drought - if the staff report had discussed how much water the trees will use.

~ Ending the outdoor dining permits that allow restaurants to put seating in the street. If the council approves, permits would end on Feb. 28. While positively received, the staff report says usage has declined during the winter, there are 24 fewer parking spaces, the spaces are often unsightly and unused, and some businesses are given an unfair advantage over others. https://tny.im/NO0WM

~ A report on what has been done with Measure K tax funds, which have "largely remained unappropriated since the tax measure was approved in Fall 2019 and merchants began collecting the new 0.75% sales tax effective April 1." 2020.  https://tny.im/KUfMq

~ Proclaiming February 2022 as "Black History Month." https://tny.im/m2Nev

~ Honoring San Gabriel Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District's "2021 Public Health Teacher of the Year," Clifton Middle School Teacher Gina Ayala. https://tny.im/13zsD

- Brad Haugaard

Weekly Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 551 New Cases in Monrovia, No More Deaths; But One Death in Unincorporated Monrovia

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 01/26/2022. Changes since 01/19/2022.

City of Monrovia: 7,460 cases (up 551), 89 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 786 cases (up 56), 2 deaths (up 1)

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Transient Calls Police on Woman With Dog Off Leash; Roll-Over Traffic Collision; Transient Sets Fire; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 20 – January 26. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 491 service events, resulting in 69 investigations.

Grand Theft Auto Recovery
January 20 at 1:19 a.m., an officer patrolling the 900 block of W. Duarte located a stolen vehicle parked in a parking lot there. The vehicle was recovered and stored since the registered owner was not available to respond. This investigation is continuing.

Vandalism
January 20 at 8:08 a.m., a resident in the 500 block of Royal Oaks called to report that a family member came to her house and kicked the front door, causing minor damage. This investigation is continuing.

Fight Challenge – Suspect Arrested
January 20 at 9:33 a.m., a caller reported that a male subject approached him in the 300 block of Myrtle and challenged him to a fight. Officers arrived and contacted the suspect. An investigation was conducted and evidence of the interaction was recovered. The caller placed the subject under private person's arrest. The arrest was accepted and the suspect was taken into custody.

Medical Assist
January 20 at 11:02 a.m., a fentanyl overdose was reported in the 1600 block of Myrtle. Officers arrived and administered one dose of Narcan, allowing the patient to regain consciousness. Paramedics responded and then transported the subject to a local hospital for further treatment.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
January 20 at 1:51 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the area of Myrtle and Huntington. Officers responded and checked on the well-being of all occupants. An investigation was conducted and the driver at fault was issued a citation.

Missing Person Located / Medical Assist
January 20 at 10:20 p.m., an employee at a hotel in the 900 block of S. Fifth called advising there was a female transient lying in a hallway. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject. An investigation revealed she was reported missing out of San Bernardino. She complained of pain to her ankle and requested paramedics. Officers removed her from the Missing Person’s System and she was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Fraud / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 21 at 3:19 a.m., officers contacted a subject in the 1600 block of S. Primrose. An investigation revealed he had an outstanding warrant for his arrest and was in possession of various identification documents and debit cards belonging to three other subjects. The cards and documents were collected by officers for safekeeping. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
January 21 at 9:09 a.m., a caller in the 700 block of E. Central advised that his vehicle had been broken into sometime during the night. Officers responded and conducted an investigation. The victim advised he had taken his vehicle to a local dealership to get it serviced. The vehicle however was not locked and upon returning to his vehicle he discovered items were now missing. This investigation is continuing.

Wind Related Service Calls
January 21 officers working the night shift handled multiple calls for service related to the extreme Santa Ana winds present throughout the San Gabriel Valley. Officers responded to thirty four alarm calls and thirty six tree emergencies that included trees down in the streets, trees down on vehicles, and one that fell into a residence. There were also twenty six downed electrical wires that were sparking. Three fires were also extinguished.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
January 22 at 1:17 a.m., officers patrolling the area of W. Colorado and S. Primrose observed a vehicle commit a traffic violation. A traffic stop was conducted and further investigation revealed the driver had been driving under the influence of alcohol. The driver was arrested and transported to the Monrovia Police Department jail for a sobering period.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 22 at 9:51 a.m., a caller reported a traffic collision occurred in the area of Duarte and Myrtle. Officers and Paramedics arrived and checked on the well-being of the occupants. One of the drivers had visible injuries. An investigation was conducted and the driver at fault was issued a citation.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
January 22 at 6:51 p.m., officers responded to the 700 block of S. Myrtle regarding a report of domestic violence. An investigation revealed that a male and female were involved in an argument when the female struck the male with a clenched fist and kicked him numerous times. The male sustained minor injuries. The female was arrested and taken into custody.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 22 at 11:29 p.m., officers were patrolling the 1600 block of S. Myrtle when they observed a subject at the Station Square Park after hours. An investigation revealed the subject had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Disturbed Subject
January 23 at 10:02 a.m., a caller was walking her dog in the 300 block of Myrtle when a male transient told her it was a crime to walk her dog off leash. The caller ignored the subject, which upset him and he yelled that he would call the police. Officers arrived and spoke with both parties. Peace was kept and the parties separated.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 23 at 11:21 a.m., a traffic collision was reported in the area of Shamrock and Central. Officers and paramedics arrived and checked on the well-being of the driver. A vehicle struck two parked vehicles. The driver was transported to a local hospital. This investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 23 at 3:41 p.m., a caller reported a traffic collision occurred in the area of Myrtle and Lemon. Officers and paramedics arrived and checked on the well-being of the occupants. One of the driver's complained of pain. An investigation was conducted and the driver at fault was issued a citation.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
January 23 at 5:13 p.m., a resident in the 500 block of W. Duarte called to report of a domestic dispute. Officers arrived and located the couple. It was discovered that the male subject physically assaulted the female. The male was arrested and taken into custody.

Theft – Suspect Arrested
January 23 at 7:32 p.m., a caller reported a male subject in a store in the 700 block of Huntington was harassing her. The subject reportedly got into an argument with shoppers. Officers arrived and contacted the subject. During the course of their investigation, they discovered the subject had stolen merchandise from the location. The store desired prosecution and the male subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Mental Evaluation
January 24 at 1:21 p.m., a caller stated she had just met with an ex-boyfriend in the 900 block of W. Huntington. He told her he wanted to see her one last time before he killed himself. Officers arrived and determined he needed to be evaluated by a mental health professional. He was transported to a local facility for treatment.

Grand Theft Auto
January 24 at 7:47 p.m., a victim reported his Honda CRV had just been stolen from a parking lot in the 300 block of W. Huntington. Officers arrived, but could not locate the stolen vehicle. The vehicle was entered into the stolen vehicle database. This investigation is continuing.

Possession of Stolen Property / Drug Activity – Suspect Arrested
January 24 at 10:17 p.m., a caller reported a suspicious male walking in the 900 block of Norumbega. Officers arrived and located the male. An investigation revealed he was in possession of stolen property and drug paraphernalia. He was arrested.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence / Mental Evaluation – Suspect Arrested
January 24 at 11:10 p.m., a vehicle was reported to have collided into the center median in the 100 block of W. Duarte. Officers located the vehicle and determined that the driver was under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested and transported to the Monrovia Police Department jail. During the booking process officers determined that he also needed to be evaluated by a mental health professional. He was issued a citation and transported to a local facility for treatment.

Criminal Threats – Suspect Wanted
January 25 at 7:37 p.m., a victim in the 800 block of W. Olive reported that her husband threatened to kill her while holding a knife before leaving the location. Officers arrived and searched the area, but he was not found. An emergency protective order was obtained and a warrant was issued for the husband.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 26 at 9:54 a.m., a caller reported two motorists had collided in the intersection of Lemon and Magnolia. Both drivers were injured, and one was transported by paramedics to a nearby hospital for treatment. An investigation was conducted and the driver who was found to be at fault was issued a citation.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
January 26 at 10:26 a.m., an employee of a hardware store in the 1600 block of S. Mountain reported a male adult subject had just left the store with merchandise he did not pay for. Officers responded and searched the area. The subject was located nearby and was detained. After an investigation, the property was returned to the store. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Attempt Residential Burglary / Vandalism – Suspect Arrested
January 26 at 4:39 p.m., a resident in the 600 block of W. Olive reported a male adult subject had just attempted to burglarize her home while she was inside. She saw him cutting one of her window screens to gain access. When she confronted him, he yelled profanities at her, then ran from the area. Further investigation revealed that just prior to attempting to burglarize the home, he had sliced the tires of a parked car near the victim's home. Officers located the subject running from the scene and detained him. He was positively identified by the victim before being arrested and taken into custody.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 26 at 6:29 p.m., a roll over traffic collision was reported in the area of Shamrock and Evergreen regarding a roll over traffic collision. An investigation revealed that one of the drivers did not see there was a stop sign at the intersection and clipped two vehicles before rolling over. Paramedics responded and transported one of the involved parties to a local hospital for treatment.

Trespass – Suspect Arrested
January 26 at 7:36 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington regarding a subject refusing to leave the location. Officers contacted the subject and an investigation revealed that a valid no trespass authorization existed preventing the subject from being at the location. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Fire Assist
January 26 at 9:51 p.m., a large fire in the area of Peck and Live Oak was reported. Upon arrival they determined the fire had been set by a transient in the area. Fire personnel from Los Angeles County arrived to put out the fire.

Dinner at Noodle Street

Dinner at Noodle Street, in the Vons shopping center at Foothill and Myrtle. Got the Dan Dan noodle bowl with seasoned ground pork and spinach for $12.80 and an iced tea for $4.50. Good!

- Brad Haugaard 

$10,000 Reward in Murder of Terry Alford

Press release from the office of County Supervisor Catherine Barger:

Seeking justice for the Monrovia community, Supervisor Kathryn Barger introduced a motion at Tuesday’s Board of Supervisors meeting to offer a $10,000 reward in exchange for information leading to the arrest of whomever is responsible for the murder of Terry Alford.

The reward comes nearly a year after the incident occurred on January 29, 2021, when 46-year-old Alford was shot multiple times in front of a residence in Monrovia while visiting his family. He was on the front porch when four male suspects snuck up behind him. Law enforcement investigators believe the shooting was gang related and intentional, but presume Alford was not the intended target.

“Terry Alford and his family deserve justice and answers,” Supervisor Barger said. “While the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and Monrovia Police Department have been dedicated to solving this crime, we need the community’s help to reach a conclusion. My thoughts are with Terry’s wife, children, and siblings as they grapple with this senseless tragedy.”

The City of Monrovia is closely partnering with Los Angeles County in this effort.

“The Alford Family deserves justice for the tragic death of Terry,” City Manager Dylan Feik said. “Four suspects remain in our community, somewhere, and we ask for the community’s help in finding them.”

If anyone has information about this incident, they are encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau at (323)-890-5617 or the Los Angeles Regional Crime Stoppers Hotline at (800) 222-TIPS (8477) or lacrimestoppers.org.

Source: Press release from Supervisor Barger: https://shrtm.nu/Wv24

- Brad Haugaard 

Mayor Tom Adams Will Not Run Again

Adams announces he will not run again.

Monrovia Mayor Tom Adams announced that he is retiring from public office at the end of his term in June.

Adams, who has served the city for more than 30 years, first on the Planning Commission, then City Council, and most recently as Mayor, made the announcement at the conclusion of this year's State of the City address. 

Adams said he feels he has achieved "every single goal" he set for himself when he was first elected mayor. "I feel I am leaving Monrovia in far better shape than I found it," and "if stay longer it would be just for my ego."

Adam's seat will be filled in this June's election.

Here is his announcement: https://youtu.be/Wv0GI9wjANg?t=3901

- Brad Haugaard

Nominations Open for 'Woman of the Year'

Assemblyman Chris Holden is accepting nominations for "Woman of the Year" for the 41st Assembly District. Details: https://a41.asmdc.org/woman-year-nominations

-Brad Haugaard

Chicken (the Cat) Has Gone Through a Lot; She Just Wants Love and Stability


Three-year-old Chicken was surrendered to the shelter due to anxiety after the other cat in the household passed away. Understandably, Chicken has been under some stress due to losing her cat friend and her family, so she needs a patient adopter who will let her go at her own pace. It would be helpful to provide her with a sanctuary space, such as a quiet room, while she gets used to her new environment. Chicken has been through a lot, and just wants the love and stability of a forever home!

The adoption fee for cats is $100. 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 an adoption appointment at pasadenahumane.org. Adoptions are by appointment only, and new adoption appointments are available every Sunday and Wednesday at 10:00 a.m.

Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email. 

- Brad Haugaard


Monrovia High Student One of Just Nine Posse Scholars Across the Nation


Monrovia High School Senior Tamika Samuels will be attending Middlebury College in Vermont with the help of the Posse Scholarship, a full, 4-year scholarship for students traditionally overlooked in the college admissions process.  Middlebury chooses a handful of students each year for this honor.

Samuels is one of just one other Posse scholars from around the nation.

Celebrating with Samuels' family and friends on the zoom call was MHS School Counselor Noel Hernandez, one of many who helped on the journey to this achievement. 

"It was absolutely amazing to hear such great news.", said Hernandez. "This news made my week and I advised Tamika to keep that feeling alive in her heart for as long as possible."

From her time with the Black Student Union, Math and Science Academy, Varsity Tennis team and many other programs, she said they all helped her get to where she is now.

"MHS has helped prepare me for college," Samuels said. "I want to take the time to thank all the teachers I've had throughout high school and my counselor Ms. Hernandez and Ms. Putrika."

She has one piece of advice for those that might be holding off on applying: "I'd say, just go for it. You never know what the outcome would be but you'll feel at peace knowing that you did your best and prepared for it. So just do what you have to do, be your authentic self and believe in yourself."

Samuels will join the Middlebury's Math and Science Department and plans to focus her studies in biology. Her goal is to eventually attend medical school and become a pediatrician to help close the healthcare gap for communities in-need.

- Brad Haugaard

Getting Rid of Your Storm Debris

City Manager Dylan Feik reports that …

“City crews are working through the streets of Monrovia to pick up piles of debris. Residents with downed trees and limbs can stack them in the front yard near the street to be hauled off. Crews will continue picking up debris through the end of the week so please don’t worry if we haven’t come just yet…we’ll get there! In addition, the City is placing large roll-off dumpsters at 3 locations should you wish to dump green waste. The bins are already placed at the following locations –
  • Community Center (119 W. Palm Avenue)
  • Public Works Yard (600 Mountain Avenue)
  • Recreation Park (2 bins at 620 S. Shamrock Avenue)”
Also, Edison still has a backlog but is working to restore power, and the city is helping those with significant damage to their homes.

- Brad Haugaard 

A Moment in Monrovia History: Monrovia Union High School

Monrovia Union High School. From the Steve Baker collection. See full details here.

For more historic photos and papers, see the Monrovia Historical Society’s complete Legacy Project collection here. Learn more about the Monrovia Historical Society here.

- Brad Haugaard

Artist Reception for New Exhibit at Community Center

- Brad Haugaard

Tree Falls Onto Property in North Monrovia


The wind did cause some serious damage in Monrovia. This house on Heather Heights in north Monrovia  had a tree fall on it. 

- Brad Haugaard 

City Provides Staging Area to Help SCE Restore Power

City Manager Dylan Feik reports that to assist Southern California Eduson in its work restoring power in Monrovia, the city has closed Central Avenue between California and Shamrock so SCE can stage more equipment, which will speed up its efforts to restore power.

- Brad Haugaard 

City Manager: Just Stack Windstorm Branches and Bags of Debris By the Curb

In case you are running out of green waste containers following Friday night's windstorm, City Manager Dylan Feik writes that you can "just  stack limbs and branches somewhere near the street so we can get to it. No need to schedule…there are downed limbs everywhere so we’ll stop wherever we see them!" Also, you can put other storm debris in trash bags and put it at the curb. Crews will pick those up as well when they come by.

- Brad Haugaard

'High Wind Warning' Cancelled, But 'Wind Advisory' In Effect Until 2 p.m. Sunday

The National Weather Service has cancelled its "high wind warning" but said a "wind advisory" is in effect for the San Gabriel Valley until 2 p.m. Sunday. "Northeast winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts to 40 mph. Strongest near the foothills." https://tny.im/a6uyR

- Brad Haugaard

City Services Busy Throughout Windy Night

City Manager Dylan Feik reports that Police, Fire and Public Works departments worked through the night responding to considerable damage caused by the winds. "Last night alone, the Police Department responded to 34 alarm calls, 26 calls for down live wires, some of which caused sparking in the streets or fires that are now extinguished, and 36 tree emergencies that ranged from downed trees, trees falling on cars, and even one that fell on a home that is deemed unsafe and uninhabitable."

- Brad Haugaard

Winds Hit Monrovia

A windstorm is hitting Monrovia now with flickering lights in homes, blown transformers, and a power outages reported on social media between Shamrock and Mountain, between Huntington and the 210 freeway, and near Hillcrest and Magnolia in north Monrovia. 

The National Weather service has issued a warning of winds from 15 to 30 miles per hour, with gusts up to 60 mph, in the San Gabriel Valley through 3 p.m. Saturday. https://tny.im/xAsYl

Update: At 7:30 a.m. Saturday traffic lights are out along Huntington Drive in west Monrovia.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia High to Get Intro to Engineering Course

At its next meeting (agenda: https://tny.im/WTEAH) the Monrovia Board of Education will consider, among other things, adding "Honors Introduction to Engineering Design" as a new course for high school students. https://tny.im/WFjiw

- Brad Haugaard

Work Begun on Re-Plastering Ceiling of Historic Anderson House.


Work began today (Friday) on re-plastering the ceiling of Monrovia's historic Anderson House.

The Monrovia Historical Society, which preserves the house as a museum, held an auction late last year of vintage items that either did not relate to the Society's mission, or were surplus, to help raise funds for the renovation. The ceiling plaster, which had been falling in sheets, had forced the closure of the museum.

The work is being performed by Monrovia's Mountjoy Construction.

- Brad Haugaard

Valentine's Day Romantic Carriage Rides

- Brad Haugaard

Penalties for Using Too Much Water; General Plan Revision; City Wants Artists to Paint Utility Boxes

In his latest report (https://goo.gl/aOqX7O) City Manager Dylan Feik reports: 

~ Monrovians whose water usage exceeds 90% of their usage for the same month in 2020 will be charged "a penalty of two times the cost of a water billing unit (748 gallons of water) for each unit in excess of what is permitted. For a typical residential unit, the standard penalty is $4.88 per unit in excess."

~ No, Feik writes, the rain wasn't enough to fill major reservoirs and end the drought.

~ The city is updating its general plan...

The goal of the Housing Element is to create 982 housing units for "extremely low income" to "moderate income" people. The city "is not responsible for the actual construction of these units. The City is, however, responsible for creating a regulatory environment in which the private market could build these units." https://tny.im/iM248

Goals of the Environmental Justice Element are to promote: healthy and affordable housing, public and recreational facilities, healthy food access, climate resiliency, civic and community engagement and services. https://tny.im/caMQy

The Safety Element is the city's plan to protect against fire, flooding, earthquakes, heatwaves, drought, pollution, and crime. https://tny.im/idK0f

~ Monrovia is looking for artists to paint four of its utility boxes. The theme for this year's Art on the Box program is Celebrating Diversity. Applications will be accepted through March 31. Each artist may submit up to two proposals. Details: cityofmonrovia.org/art.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Students Get Access to 24/7 Online Tutoring


Monrovia students now have access to a free 24/7 online tutoring service called Paper. "Whether they’re stuck on homework, studying for a test, or need someone to read and make suggestions to their essays, there will always be experts available online to assist students in over 200 subjects." Details: https://tny.im/7gEGU

- Brad Haugaard

Weekly Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 812 New Cases, One New Death

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 01/19/2022. Changes since 01/12/2021.

City of Monrovia: 6,909 cases (up 812), 89 deaths (up 1)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 730 cases (up 76), 1 death (unchanged)

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Transients Block Cleaning Crew from Building; Fake Delivery Person Wants a Kiss; Man Tries to Light Tree on Fire; Motorcycle on Fire; Church Sound Equipment Stolen; and Lots More

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 13 – January 19. - Brad Haugaard]


During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 329 service events, resulting in 65 investigations.

Park Hours Violation
January 13 at 2:47 a.m., a cleaning crew arrived to the 300 block of S. Myrtle, but could not get in the front doors because of two transients that were sleeping blocking the entry way. Officers arrived and had the cleaning crew enter the building through the side door. The transients refused to leave. A verified complaint was completed against the subjects for being in the park after hours.

Theft / Fraud
January 13 at 9:30 a.m., a caller reported he had his wallet stolen from the 700 block of W. Huntington during the night. The suspect then started using the victim’s credit cards in the early morning hours. This investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary
January 13 at 12:16 p.m., the owner of a restaurant in the 1100 block of E. Huntington called to report that it was broken into during the night. The owner had video of the suspects prying the door open. This investigation is continuing.

Vandalism
January 13 at 4:30 p.m., a victim reported that her vehicle’s windows had been smashed and the tires slashed while parked in the 200 block of E. Chestnut. This investigation is continuing.

Battery
January 13 at 6:58 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of E. Evergreen called to report she had ordered food online and the delivery person arrived and dropped the food at her front door. After the delivery another subject picked up the food and tried to pretend he was the delivery person. While speaking with the victim he tried to hug and kiss the victim. The victim managed to push the suspect away and he fled from the location. This investigation is continuing.

Mental Evaluation
January 13 at 10:03 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 700 block of E. Huntington regarding a subject who appeared to be trying to burn a tree with a lighter. Upon arrival officers saw the subject trying to light a leaf on fire. It was determined the subject needed to be evaluated by a mental health professional. He was transported to a local facility for treatment.

Death Report
January 14 at 2:13 a.m., officers responded to the 100 block of S. Myrtle regarding a subject not breathing. Paramedics also responded and pronounced the subject deceased. The subject had been suffering from numerous medical issues. The LA County Coroner’s Office was notified and authorized the deceased to be released to a mortuary.

Trespass – Suspect Arrested
January 14 at 8:39 a.m., an employee from a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington called to report that a male subject was at the location who had been previously advised to not come back onto the property because he was disrupting the business. Officers arrived and located the individual on the property. He was arrested.

Grand Theft
January 14 at 9:17 a.m., a resident in the area of El Dorado and Fifth called to report that sometime during the night his vehicle's catalytic converter was stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Wanted Person – Suspect Arrested
January 14 at 3:23 p.m., officers were patrolling the 300 block of E. Duarte when they saw a subject they recognized as being wanted for domestic violence and robbery. The subject was detained and his identity confirmed. He was arrested and transported to Monrovia Police Department jail.

Fire Assist
January 14 at 4:55 p.m., a resident in the 800 block of W. Colorado called to report that a motorcycle was on fire, which caused a portion of a residential complex to catch fire. Officers and the Fire Department arrived and the fire was quickly extinguished. The fire was caused by a tenant who was working on his motorcycle. The fire is being investigated by an arson investigator.

Commercial Robbery
January 14 at 9:42 p.m., officers responded to a convenience store in the 900 block of W. Duarte regarding a robbery that had just occurred. An investigation revealed that three male suspects wearing masks had entered the location after a customer left. One of the suspects was armed with a black semi-automatic handgun and ordered the clerk to open the register. Another suspect then reached into the open register and removed cash. All three suspects then fled the location on foot. This investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence
January 15 at 11:56 a.m., a resident in the 400 block of E. Cypress called to report that his neighbors had a domestic dispute. Officers arrived and spoke with the female subject. She alleged her husband had pushed her out of their home and locked her out. The husband would not answer the front door or phone calls. This investigation is continuing.

Death Report
January 15 at 1:06 p.m., a resident in the 400 block of Granite called to report her husband was unconscious and not breathing. Officers and Paramedics responded and began life saving measures. The subject was pronounced deceased by Paramedics. Mortuary arrangements were made. The deceased was identified as a retired Monrovia Police Department detective.

Trespass / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 15 at 3:21 p.m., an employee from a business in the 100 block of W. Foothill called to report that a male subject was at the location disturbing customers. He was asked to leave and he refused. Officers arrived and contacted the subject. The officer asked the subject to leave on behalf of the manager's request, but he refused. His response was, "You'll have to arrest me." Further investigation revealed the subject had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. He was arrested transported to the Monrovia Police Department jail.

Fighting in Public
January 15 at 9:20 p.m., a fight was reported in the 400 block of S. Myrtle. Upon arrival officers learned that the subjects had left the location. One of the subjects was later located through his license plate. He explained that after leaving a restaurant in the area, an intoxicated male subject called his wife a derogatory term. He then confronted that subject and they began pushing each other and at one point they fell to the ground. They then separated and left the location. No prosecution was desired and the other involved subject was not located.

Suspicious Subject
January 15 at 10:21 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 800 block of E. Central when a caller reported that the security officer there was acting aggressive towards him. The caller stated he was driving by and saw a vehicle he liked. He parked and was looking at the vehicle. The security officer then told him to leave and began taking pictures of the caller’s vehicle. Officers conducted an investigation and determined no crime had occurred.

Wanted Person – Suspect Arrested
January 15 at 10:21 p.m., officers from Arcadia Police Department located a subject wanted by the Monrovia Police Department. They were able to transport him to the Monrovia Police Department jail where he was arrested.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
January 15 at 10:22 p.m., a caller reported a vehicle stopped in the area of Myrtle and Olive with a driver slumped at the wheel and the engine revving. Officers arrived and detained the driver who displayed symptoms of being under the influence. The driver was arrested for DUI and transported to a local hospital for a blood sample. He then refused to provide the sample and was transported to the Monrovia Police Department jail for a breath sample.

Theft
January 16 at 3:27 a.m., officers responded to the 2100 block of S. Myrtle after a resident called to report a suspicious subject walked onto his neighbor’s porch and took a package. The subject was seen taking the package to the side of the residence, opening it, and discarding it. Officers arrived and detained the subject. The owner of the package was located, but did not desire any prosecution. The subject was positively identified before his release.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 16 at 8:07 a.m., a caller reported five motorists collided into one another at the intersection of Peck and Live Oak. Officers and Paramedics responded. The driver found to be at fault was issued a citation. Two of the drivers complained of pain and one was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Drug Activity – Suspect Arrested
January 16 at 3:04 p.m., officers were patrolling the 800 block of E. Olive when they saw a male adult subject loitering in the middle of the roadway. He was contacted and found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and transported to the Monrovia Police Department jail.

Grand Theft Auto Recovery / Hit and Run – Suspect Arrested
January 16 at 5:18 p.m., a caller reported that one of his neighbors was running after a male suspect in the 900 block of Norumbega. The suspect got into a red vehicle and fled the area south. The suspect then crashed the vehicle in the 600 block of Wildrose and ran from the vehicle. An investigation revealed the vehicle was reported stolen in the city of San Bernardino the same day, after the victim left her keys in the ignition with newly purchased groceries. A search for the suspect was conducted with neighboring agencies. The suspect was eventually located hiding in the backyard of a home on Wildrose. He was arrested and transported to the Monrovia Police Department jail. The owner of the stolen vehicle was notified.

Assault Report
January 16 at 7:15 p.m., an off-duty Los Angeles Sheriff’s Deputy detained a suspect at a local bar in the 600 block of S. Myrtle after he hit someone with a chair. Officers arrived and found that the possible victim had already left the location. An investigation revealed that the suspect and victim are co-workers, and that the assault occurred after the victim called the suspect a racial slur. During the fight the suspect picked up a chair and hit the victim in the back with it. This investigation is continuing.

Missing Person
January 16 at 7:42 p.m., a male subject in the 3300 block of S. Peck reported his girlfriend missing. She was last seen at a business in the area when she walked away at 4:00 p.m. She suffers from multiple mental disorders. She was entered into the national missing person’s database.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 17 at 4:37 p.m., officers responded to the 200 block of W. Cherry regarding a suspect in the area with a possible warrant for his arrest. The subject was located and positively identified. A computer check revealed he had a $250,000 warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and transported to the Monrovia Police Department jail.

Trespass – Suspect Arrested
January 17 at 7:42 p.m., a resident in the 1100 block of Teresita reported that a subject was trespassing on her property. Officers arrived and detained the subject down the street. It was learned that this same subject already had a pending trespassing case from the same location. The resident desired prosecution and has no idea who the subject is and why he keeps returning to her property. He was arrested and released with a citation.

Battery
January 17 at 9:27 p.m., officers responded to a restaurant in the 600 block of W. Huntington regarding to subjects fighting inside the location. Upon arrival officers discovered that the suspect had already left the location. The victim told officers he was punched in the face in an unprovoked attack. This investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
January 18 at 8:01 a.m., an employee of a church in the 400 block of E. Huntington arrived at the location and discovered someone had forced entry into a trailer parked in their back parking lot. The suspect stole all the church sound equipment from inside the trailer. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
January 18 at 11:03 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of S. Madison walked outside and discovered someone had stolen her vehicle sometime during the night. Officers searched for the vehicle, but could not locate it. The vehicle was entered into the Stolen Vehicle System. This investigation is continuing.

Burglary
January 19 at 8:00 a.m., a resident at an apartment complex in the 200 block of W. Pomona received an email from the management company for all residents to check their parking garage storage units for possible break-ins. The resident checked his and discovered someone had forced entry into the unit sometime during the night, and personal property had been stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto Attempt
January 19 at 8:29 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of N. Grand walked outside his home and discovered someone had attempted to take his vehicle. The steering column and steering wheel were damaged, however, the suspect was unsuccessful in the theft. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto Recovery
January 19 at 8:46 a.m., the Sierra Madre Police Department discovered a stolen vehicle parked and unoccupied in the 1600 block of Rosewood, two blocks from the victim's home. The vehicle had been reported stolen by its owner the day before to the Monrovia Police Department. Monrovia officers responded and recovered the vehicle. The vehicle was returned to its owner. This investigation is continuing.

Burglary
January 19 at 2:56 p.m., a resident in the 300 block of Valley Circle discovered someone had gained entry into his garage and stole his bicycle. This investigation is continuing.

Mental Evaluation
January 19 at 4:57 p.m., several callers reported an adult male subject was yelling at Junior High School children and walked in front of cars moving at high speeds in the 100 block of W. Duarte. Officers arrived and located the subject. It was determined that he needed to be evaluated by a mental health professional. He was transported to a local facility for treatment.

Grand Theft
January 19 at 8:40 p.m., a victim called and reported that someone had stolen the catalytic converter off of her Honda Accord. Sierra Madre Police Department recently arrested three catalytic converter theft suspects and this incident is believed to be related. Sierra Madre PD was notified and they will be contacting the victim. This investigation is continuing.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision / Hit and Run
January 19 at 9:18 p.m., a victim was driving east on Evergreen approaching a green light at California. Upon entering the intersection, the other party ran a red light, traveling south on California, and collided with the victim in the intersection. The other party fled the scene. This investigation is continuing.

New Art Exhibit at Community Center


A new exhibit of works by four Monrovia artists, Arella Tomlinson, Jenny Gano, John Parker, and Arthur Lorraine. . Artist reception Jan. 30, 2-5 p.m. at the Community Center. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Dinner at T Burger


Dinner at T Burger, on The south side of Foothill just east of Magnolia. I got a chicken gyro for $7.98 and a drink for $2.79. Very tasty.

- Brad Haugaard 

Dakota Loves Squeaky Toys and Games of Fetch


Two-year-old Dakota is a young and energetic dog who loves squeaky toys, going for walks, and long games of fetch. She’s very smart, and has lots of fun with enrichment toys (like egg cartons filled with treats). Dakota would do best in a home without children or other dogs, and hopes she can have lots of playtime with her new person!

The adoption fee for dogs is $150. 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 an adoption appointment at pasadenahumane.org. Adoptions are by appointment only, and new adoption appointments are available every Sunday and Wednesday at 10:00 a.m.

Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email.

- Brad Haugaard

Two Monrovians Join Foothill Unity Center Board of Directors

Two Monrovians have been named to the Foothill Unity Center's board of directors. They are Keisha Carter-Bowen, who owns Simply Divine Salon Barbershop, and Dr. Ryan Smith, Superintendent of Monrovia Schools. https://tny.im/ea96G  (Photo courtesy of PasadenaNow)

- Brad Haugaard

A Moment in Monrovia History: Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Train at Depot

Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe 1420 at Santa Fe depot in Monrovia.. From the Myron Hotchkiss collection. See full details here.

For more historic photos and papers, see the Monrovia Historical Society’s complete Legacy Project collection here. Learn more about the Monrovia Historical Society here.

- Brad Haugaard

After 17 Years, Kirk McGinnis' Last Day at Monrovia High


Monrovia School District tweeted: After 17 years at Monrovia Unified, today is Kirk McGinnis' last day as Principal at Monrovia High School.  His final day was filled with bittersweet goodbyes, reminiscing with students and everyone wishing him good luck at his next job with El Monte Unified.

- Brad Haugaard

City to Consider: Switching Back to Rotating Mayor; Hiring Firm to Fix Canyon Park; Creating 'Inclusionary Housing Ordinance'; Etc.


At its next meeting (agenda: https://tny.im/T7vS7) the Monrovia City Council will ...

~ Consider putting on the ballot a measure that would switch Monrovia back from having an elected mayor to simply rotating the office of mayor among the council members each year. https://tny.im/07okv

~ Consider consolidating its regular municipal elections with the statewide primary election (on June 7 this year). The consolidation is required by state law. https://tny.im/tWMVv

~  Consider hiring Merrell Johnson Engineering, Inc. for $679,139 to manage the Canyon Park restoration, and hire it for another $64,626 to manage work on the pumping station that fills the tank that supplies water to the park facilities. Total cost for the restoration work is estimated at a bit over $10 million. https://tny.im/t70iP

~ Consider hiring Sagecrest Planning and Environmental for up to $154,090 to help develop an "Inclusionary Housing Ordinance, a Density Bonus Ordinance, Accessory Dwelling Unit Design Guidelines, and Environmental Analysis." Inclusionary housing requires market-rate residential developments to include affordable housing. State Density Bonus law provides development waivers, concessions, reduced parking standards, and density increases to encourage the development of affordable and senior housing.  https://tny.im/AeHxL

- Brad Haugaard

Fixing and Upgrading Monrovia Parks, Garden Myths Workshop; Transportation Survey; Blood Donations Low

In his latest report (https://goo.gl/aOqX7O) City Manager Dylan Feik reports: 

~ This year there will be major renovations to Monrovia parks, the park area around the library, and a big upgrade to the Community Center.

Repair of Canyon Park will cost just over $10 million and construction won't begin for a few months, but when it is done the park will have new roads, parking lots, trails, signs, etc. Most of the funds to repair the park will come from federal or state assistance, or from insurance.

Lucinda Garcia Park will be upgraded, Recreation Park will have its ball fields, parking areas, pathways, etc. worked on, and the exterior area around the library will be improved. Also, there will be a new park on land donated to the city by the developer of the Chick-fil-A/Starbucks project at the south end of the old Claimjumper restaurant site.

Also, the Community Center will be reworked. "We will have design and architectural renderings for upgrading the Community Center and in the near months."

~ The Monrovia Community Garden will hold a virtual workshop, "Debunking Garden Myths: Applying organic science-based principles in the garden," on January 29, from 10 to 11 a.m.  Gio Leos will discuss  garden myths and what the science behind them actually demonstrates. Chili flakes in the soil? Companion planting? Hugelkultur? Question/answer time from 11 to 11:30 a.m. Register here -  https://tny.im/HDoZ - or email info@monroviacommunitygarden.org for more information.

~ The San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments and Metro have an online survey on local transportation. Participate here: https://tny.im/35Aos

~ Red Cross has experienced about a 10% decline in people donating blood since the pandemic began. In recent weeks it has less than a one-day supply of blood products - well below the ideal five-day supply. To give, go to RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-733-2767.

- Brad Haugaard

Weekly Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 892 New Cases, One New Death

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 01/12/2021. Changes since 01/05/2021.

City of Monrovia: 6,097 cases (up 892), 88 deaths (up 1)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 654 cases (up 94), 1 death (unchanged)

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Catalytic Converters Stolen from Motorhomes; Customer Shoves Restaurant Employee; Men With Hammers Steal Phones; Golf Clubs Stolen from Car; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 6 – January 12. - Brad Haugaard]


During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 331 service events, resulting in 56 investigations.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
January 6 at 9:14 p.m., officers responded to the 600 block of S. Myrtle regarding unknown trouble between a male and female. Officers arrived and discovered the male had left the area, but the female was still at the location. Officers spoke with the female who was intoxicated and uncooperative. She was arrested and taken into custody for being drunk in public.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
January 6 at 11:12 p.m., an officer noticed a vehicle commit several vehicle code violations in the 600 block of S. Primrose. The driver was stopped and while officers spoke with the driver, they noticed he displayed symptoms of being under the influence. The driver was arrested and transported to the Monrovia Police Department for a sobering period.

Petty Theft
January 7 at 8:00 a.m., the owner of a business in the 400 block of W. Duarte called to report his coin machine was broken into sometime overnight. Video footage showed two suspects prying open the machine. The investigation is continuing.

Trespassing
January 7 at 9:05 a.m., an employee from a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington called to report a male subject was inside the business disturbing customers. Officers arrived and contacted the male subject. He was issued a citation for a related offense.

Driving Under the Influence Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
January 8 at 3:05 a.m., an officer noticed a vehicle commit a vehicle code violation in the 1300 block of S. Myrtle and initiated a traffic stop. The driver struck the curb while pulling over, causing damage to his vehicle. Officers approached the vehicle and spoke with the driver and noticed he displayed symptoms of being under the influence. The driver was arrested and transported to Monrovia Police Department for a sobering period.

Grand Theft
January 8 at 10:12 a.m., a caller reported his motorhome was parked at a storage facility in the 3000 block of S. Peck and today he discovered the catalytic converter was missing. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
January 8 at 12:14 p.m., a resident in the 100 block of E. El Norte called to report that her vehicle was broken into sometime overnight. Video footage of the crime was discovered. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
January 8 at 12:35 p.m., a caller reported his motorhome was parked at a storage facility in the 3000 block of S. Peck and today he discovered the catalytic converter was missing. The investigation is continuing.

Death Report
January 8 at 8:27 p.m., a reporting party called from the 200 block of Norumbega Drive to report that a male subject who lives in the home was found deceased on his bedroom floor. There was no evidence of foul play.

Fighting in Public
January 8 at 11:48 p.m., officers responded to the 100 block of E. Colorado regarding two female subjects who had been drinking and began to fight. The female subjects did not desire prosecution. Officers assisted one of the parties with retrieving personal property from a residence.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 9 at 9:53 a.m., a caller reported a vehicle and bicyclist were involved in a traffic collision in the 500 block of E Colorado. Officers and paramedics arrived and checked on the well-being of the involved parties. The bicyclist was treated for their visible injuries. The party at fault was issued a citation.

Commercial Burglary
January 9 at 10:10 a.m., a business owner in the 300 block of W. Foothill called to report he was out of town, but he received a call informing him that the back door to his business was kicked in. Officers arrived and cleared the business. The investigation is continuing.

Structure Fire
January 10 at 12:28 a.m., officers were dispatched to a building in the 200 block of E. Chestnut regarding a structure fire. When officers arrived they discovered it was a kitchen fire, but it was extinguished prior to officers arriving. No injuries were reported.

Battery
January 10 at 2:53 p.m., the manager of a restaurant in the 100 block of W. Duarte reported a customer became upset at their service, pushed one of the employees, and began yelling at customers and children. The suspect left the restaurant and was located nearby by officers. The suspect was placed under private persons arrest and taken into custody for battery.

Shoplifting
January 10 at 4:29 p.m., the manager of a grocery store in the 100 block of W. Foothill reported that the store was detaining a male adult subject for shoplifting. Officers arrived and after conducting an investigation they arrested the subject and issued him a citation.

Court Order Violation
January 10 at 10:58 pm, a neighbor in the 100 block of W. Olive called to report that a male subject she knew to be the restrained on a domestic violence restraining order, was at the location arguing with the protected female. The caller watched as the female allowed the male to enter her apartment. Officers arrived and heard the male and female talking inside and recognized their voices from prior contacts. The female refused to open the door. Based on previous contacts and witness statements charges will be deemed appropriate and will be presented to the District Attorney’s Office.

Grand Theft Auto
January 11 at 9:51 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of W. Pomona, MODA Apartments, walked to his apartment building's parking garage and discovered someone had stolen his motorcycle sometime during the night. Building video shows a white SUV towing the motorcycle out of the parking garage. This investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence
January 11 at 2:53 p.m., officers were patrolling the 700 block of E. Cypress when they saw a vehicle driven by a subject who was known to be wanted for domestic violence. The driver was stopped and was taken into custody for the wanted charge.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
January 11 at 3:56 p.m., a female resident in the 500 block of E. Olive reported her boyfriend had just battered her. The couple have a child together, who was also present during the fight. Officers arrived and after investigating the allegations, took the male subject into custody for domestic violence. The female subject sustained non-life threatening visible injuries. An Emergency Protective Order was granted.

Grand Theft
January 11 at 7:30 p.m., a victim in the 100 block of E. Central reported that her computer and purse were stolen from her unlocked vehicle sometime between 4:30 pm and 7:30 pm. The investigation is ongoing.

Commercial Burglary
January 11 at 7:43 p.m., two male subjects in hoodies entered a retail store in the 600 block of W. Huntington with hammers. The male subjects broke multiple display stands and stole phones. The male subjects fled the scene on foot. The investigation is continuing.

Trespassing
January 11 at 8:23 p.m., a caller observed a subject remotely via surveillance footage, on private property in the 200 block of S. Encinitas. This subject was advised previously regarding trespassing on the property. Officers arrived and contacted the subject. The caller desired prosecution and the subject was issued a citation. The subject left the property.

Grand Theft
January 11 at 8:41 p.m., a victim in the 300 block of Hill St. reported a set of golf clubs was stolen from his unlocked vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Domestic Battery
January 12 at 9:41 pm, a caller reported that he saw a male and female arguing in the area of Foothill and Norumbega. Officers arrived in the area and located the female nearby. She said her boyfriend had slapped her in the face multiple times while at his home on Valle Vista. She last saw him near Norumbega. Officers went to the subject's home but he was not there and was not located in the area. The female did not desire prosecution. The investigation is continuing.

Dinner at Thai Divine Bistro

Dinner at Thai Divine Bistro, on the east side of Myrtle just north of Olive. Got the Kang Ka Ree curry with chicken for $10.95, rice for $3, and a beer for $6. Very good!

- Brad Haugaard 

Sweet Zoey's Family Couldn't Take Her With Them - She's Looking for a New Home


Zoey was adopted from us five years ago when she was just a kitten. Her family was moving and couldn’t take her with them, so now this five-year-old cat is back with us and looking for her forever home. Zoey has been described as sweet and independent, likes to play, and even gets along with other cats and dogs. She’s ready for her second chance!

The adoption fee for cats is $100. 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 an adoption appointment at pasadenahumane.org. Adoptions are by appointment only, and new adoption appointments are available every Sunday and Wednesday at 10:00 a.m.

Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email. 

- Brad Haugaard

Clifton's Gina Ayala Named Public Health Teacher of the Year

EcoHealth Vector Education, a program of the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District, has named Gina Ayala of Clifton Middle School as its 2021 Public Health Teacher of the Year for using first-hand, real-world applications in her science teaching.

Teachers must "demonstrate how science is relevant in their daily life. If a student doesn't understand the 'why,' they won't be as engaged in the learning," said Mrs. Gina Ayala, who has been a teacher for 13 years.

Source: https://tny.im/VSpgR

- Brad Haugaard

Flint Fertig Taking Over as Interim Monrovia High Principal

Flint Fertig, Director of Adult Education and Alternative Programs, will serve as Interim Principal at Monrovia High School beginning on Monday, January 17, according to a report by Superintendent Ryan Smith.

Smith writes that, "Fertig will continue to oversee Canyon Oaks, Mountain Park, and Monrovia Community Adult School, just from afar. Directors Kimberly Cabrera and Catherine Real, both former high school principals, will provide additional support for these schools whenever needed."

The formal search process for a new principal at Monrovia High will begin later this week, he added. "Please know though that this is a difficult time of year for filling a position like this as it is not really 'hiring season', so to speak. I share this with you because I will not settle for anyone who is less than a perfect fit."

Source: https://tny.im/UnUN8

- Brad Haugaard

State of the City Meeting Jan. 24

Attend in person or on line here: cityofmonrovia.org/StateoftheCity

- Brad Haugaard

A Moment in Monrovia History: Lucinda Garcia and Daughter

Clara Bracamonte and Lucinda Garcia. Clara Bracamonte (left) poses with her mother Lucinda Garcia near the house under construction next door to their home on Almond Avenue. From the Monrovia Latino Heritage Society collection. See full details here.

For more historic photos and papers, see the Monrovia Historical Society’s complete Legacy Project collection here. Learn more about the Monrovia Historical Society here.

- Brad Haugaard

School COVID Testing For Students And Staff Only -- For Now

The Monrovia School District was providing a COVID Clinic to test people for the disease, but Superintendent Ryan Smith reports that, "Due to the high demand for testing in our community, county, and state, lines have been long, there have been limits to the number of tests available, and results are taking longer to receive. In order to help alleviate this, please note that we will be temporarily limiting access to our testing program to current students and staff only."

He added that the district is working with COVID Clinic to expand testing from three days per week to five. https://tny.im/ZVpOF

- Brad Haugaard

School Board to Consider Making Juneteenth a Paid School Holiday

At its next meeting (agenda: https://tny.im/BKWJ) the Monrovia Board of Education will consider (among other things) making Juneteenth (June 19) a paid school holiday. https://tny.im/xNC3c On June 17, 2021, President Biden signed legislation establishing it as a federal holiday.  Wikipedia: Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union Army general Gordon Granger proclaimed freedom for slaves in Texas, the last state of the Confederacy with institutional slavery. 

- Brad Haugaard

Fines For Those Who Don't Reduce Water Usage; Free Water-Saving Devices and Notebooks; Jobs With the City

In his latest report (https://goo.gl/aOqX7O) City Manager Dylan Feik reports: 

~ Monrovians who fail to reduce water usage by at least 10% compared to their water usage for the same month in 2020 will now be fined two times the cost of a water billing unit (748 gallons of water) for each billing unit in excess what is permitted.

~  The Upper San Gabriel Water Municipal Water District has free water-saving devices for eligible residents (showerheads, meter monitors, smart irrigation controllers, etc.) that will be installed by a licensed contractor, while supplies last. Details: https://tny.im/CDfMg

~ Free planners filled with native plants and water conservation tips while supplies last. Application form:  https://tny.im/ateJI

~  The City of Monrovia is recruiting for: Director of Public Works, Senior Accounting Assistant, Fire Cadet (Volunteer).

- Brad Haugaard

Weekly Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 607 New Cases, No New Deaths

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 01/05/2021. Changes since 12/29/2021.

City of Monrovia: 5,205 cases (up 607), 87 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 560 cases (up 56), 1 death (unchanged)

- Brad Haugaard

Sasha Zaroyan Announcement of Candidacy for Monrovia City Council

Following is the campaign announcement of Sasha Zaroyan, who is running for the Monrovia City Council. I will post - almost always unedited - a campaign announcement from any City Council candidate who submits one up to within seven days prior to the election. (That restriction because I don't want last-minute zingers that don't give adequate time for opponents to respond.) - Brad Haugaard


"My name is Sasha Zaroyan and I’m running for the Monrovia City Council to be a champion for small businesses, families, and individuals. I’m the only city council candidate that has the experience of pushing for funding for our community to state lawmakers, creating programs that have been proven to reduce inequities for disenfranchised families, and advocating for students and young adults to have a seat at the table. I’ve worked with Monrovian neighbors and public policy experts in creating a platform to solve our most pressing priorities as a community.

When I ran for the Monrovia School Board in 2020, I campaigned on addressing the mental health challenges our students faced and the educational inequities affecting our most disenfranchised communities. More than 7,000 Monrovian neighbors and families agreed: change can’t wait.

Since then, our community has experienced a rise in crime in every neighborhood, an outflow of small businesses leaving our corridors and shopping plazas, and some of the highest housing costs in the San Gabriel Valley. Our city continues to be categorized as a ‘high risk’ for financial distress by state agencies and public health and environmental initiatives that have garnered community support, such as Grow Monrovia and the Love Your Lungs Coalition, have been discarded by our city leaders. While other cities continue to garner awards for “Small Business Friendly”, Monrovia business owners have shared concerns of high business operating fees and regulations that limit their potential.

We can’t continue to elect and expect the same individuals to solve the issues that have been in front of them for years. We must provide an opportunity for a generational change of fresh and innovative ideas to tackle the concerns of our residents.

Monrovia, join me Saturday, January 22nd at 1:00pm at the Courtyard of the Monrovia Historical Museum to learn more about being a part of the solution, because change can’t wait. Visit https://votesasha.com/ to learn more about our campaign and RSVP to our campaign launch event. To watch our campaign launch trailer, visit https://youtu.be/DoKvPWixBlo.

Monrovia Police: Man Breaks Officer's Finger; Golf Clubs Stolen in Two Locations; Drunk Driver Stops to Sleep in Middle of Street; Indecent Exposure in Business; Cops Rescue Elderly Woman; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 30 – January 5. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 317 service events, resulting in 64 investigations.

Commercial Burglary
December 30 at 4:56 a.m., an employee reported that a grocery store in the 300 block of W. Huntington had been burglarized. Responding officers searched the interior and found that one of the entry doors and an interior office door had been pried open. Nothing reported to be stolen at this time. The store's alarm did not activate so it is unknown when the crime occurred during the night. This investigation is continuing.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
December 30 at 11:58 a.m., a caller reported a traffic collision in the 300 block of E. Foothill. Officers arrived and checked on the well-being of the drivers. No one was found to be injured. The driver at fault was issued a citation.

Domestic Violence
December 30 at 4:17 p.m., a physical altercation between a male and female in front a business in the 400 block of W. Foothill was reported. The male subject left the scene prior to officers arriving. The female sustained injuries and was treated at the scene by paramedics. This investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision / Hit and Run
December 30 at 7:08 p.m., a driver was stopped on Mayflower at Foothill when she was rear ended by another vehicle. The other vehicle fled the scene. Officers arrived, but were unable to locate the suspect vehicle. The driver complained of pain. This investigation is continuing.

Burglary / Attempt Grand Theft Auto
December 30 at 11:05 p.m., an employee at a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain returned to his vehicle and noticed the lock on the driver's door had been tampered with. The ignition for the vehicle was also tampered with and two sets of golf clubs were found to be missing. This investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence
December 31 at 2:32 a.m., a caller reported that a vehicle was stopped in a traffic lane near the intersection of Myrtle and Huntington. The male driver appeared to be passed out. Officers arrived and determined the man was too intoxicated to drive. He was transported by paramedics to a local hospital due to his intoxication. A blood sample was obtained. This case will be referred to the District Attorney’s Office for filing consideration.

Trespass – Suspect Arrested
December 31 at 4:39 a.m., an employee at a business in the 900 block of S. Fifth called and reported an unknown male subject was behind the counter. Officers arrived and contacted the subject. He was given a trespass warning and released. He returned to the location shortly thereafter and was arrested for trespassing.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 31 at 7:42 a.m., a caller reported a vehicle was stopped in the middle of the street near the intersection of Mayflower and Huntington. Officers arrived and discovered the driver was asleep behind the wheel. The officers were able to wake up the driver who displayed signs of intoxication. A DUI investigation was conducted and it was determined the driver was too intoxicated to operate a motor vehicle. He was arrested and transported to the Monrovia Police Department jail for a sobering period.

Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 31 at 11:29 a.m., a caller reported she was involved in a traffic collision at the intersection of Lime and Myrtle. Officers responded and checked on the well-being of the occupants. While talking with one of the drivers, the officer noticed she displayed signs intoxication. A DUI investigation was conducted and it was determined the driver was too intoxicated to operate a motor vehicle. She was arrested and transported to the Monrovia Police Department jail for a sobering period.

Residential Burglary
December 31 at 1:47 p.m., a resident in the 100 block of E. El Norte returned home from the market to find a subject inside his home. When the intruder saw the homeowner he immediately ran out of the back of the house and out of sight. An investigation revealed the suspect had entered through an open window. Evidence was recovered at the scene. This investigation is continuing.

Indecent Exposure / Possession of Stolen Property – Suspect Arrested
December 31 at 2:26 p.m., an employee from a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington called to report that a male adult was exposing himself inside the business. Loss Prevention escorted the subject outside and the subject continued to expose himself. Officers arrived and contacted the subject. The reporting party placed the subject under private person’s arrest. The officer accepted the arrest and taken into custody. While at the jail the suspect was also found to be in possession of stolen property.

Residential Burglary
December 31 at 3:26 p.m., a resident in the 1100 block of S. Fifth called to report that their storage unit was broken into. The locking mechanism was broken and items were removed from the unit. A second resident at the location called at 4:04 p.m., and reported similar circumstances at their storage unit. This investigation is continuing.

Welfare Check
December 31 at 8:26 p.m., officers responded to a residence in the 600 block of W. Palm regarding a welfare check of an elderly female. The reporting party stated she last spoke with her friend on Wednesday and has not been able to get in contact with her since. When officers arrived, they were able to speak with the female through the kitchen window. Officers made entry into the home to check on her well-being. The female had fallen and was laying in the corner of the dining room. She had open sores on her legs and was in need of medical attention. The female was transported to a local hospital.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 31 at 8:49 p.m., an officer witnessed a vehicle fail to stop at a stop sign at the intersection of Colorado and Mayflower. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver exhibited signs of intoxication. A DUI investigation was conducted and the driver was subsequently arrested for DUI. He was transported to the Monrovia Police Department jail for a sobering period.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
January 1 at 1:02 p.m., a motorist called and reported she was involved in a traffic collision with another vehicle near the intersection of Parker and Mayflower. Officers arrived and checked on the well-being of the drivers. Officers determined a traffic collision did not occur because neither vehicle sustained any damage. While talking with one of the drivers, the officer noticed he displayed signs intoxication. A DUI investigation was conducted and it was determined the driver was too intoxicated to operate a motor vehicle. He was arrested and transported to the Monrovia Police Department jail for a sobering period.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Wanted
January 2 at 1:34 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of Violet reported her separated husband was at her house when they began arguing. He struck her face causing a visible injury, then left the residence. Officers searched for the suspect, but couldn't locate him. A warrant was issued for his arrest.

Vandalism
January 2 at 6:03 p.m., an employee at an auto dealership in the 1300 block of S. Mountain reported that a customer used an airsoft gun to shoot out a window and damage a side panel of one of their vehicles before leaving. This investigation is continuing.

Attempt Burglary
January 3 at 7:03 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of N. Bradoaks reported she had heard noises in her backyard the previous night, but did not call the police. In the morning she walked outside and discovered someone had been in her backyard. The suspect(s) had unscrewed her backyard security lights and attempted to force entry through her sliding glass door. This investigation is continuing.

Reckless Driving / Battery on an Officer – Suspect Arrested
January 3 at 8:40 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 700 block of E. Cypress when he saw a vehicle spinning its rear tires so fast smoke rose into the air, then the vehicle sped along Cypress on the wrong side the road. The officer stopped the motorist, who immediately began verbally assaulting the officer. During a pat-down search of the suspect, he began fighting the officer and two backing officers, breaking one of the officer's fingers. The suspect was arrested and transported to the Monrovia Police Department jail for booking.

Vehicle Burglary
January 3 at 8:45 a.m., a resident in the 600 block of Terrado walked outside to her vehicle and discovered someone had recently burglarized it. The suspect forced entry into the vehicle and took a purse, wallet, and money. This investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
January 3 at 1:49 p.m., a caller reported seeing a male adult subject in the 300 block of S. Myrtle, who was intoxicated and harassing women. Officers arrived and located the subject, who was found to be heavily intoxicated and angry. The subject was arrested for being drunk in public, and was transported to Monrovia Police Department jail for a sobering period.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
January 3 at 8:14 pm, an intoxicated male called dispatch to report an argument he was involved in with his girlfriend. Officers arrived and located the male in the street in front of a residence in the 700 block of Monterey. The male was extremely intoxicated and was having a hard time standing on his own. The girlfriend contacted officers and refused to take care of the male, but offered to buy the male a ride to his home in Rialto. The male refused to leave when the ride arrived. Officers were forced to arrest the male for public intoxication and transported him to the Monrovia Police Department jail for a sobering period.

Vehicle Burglary
January 4 at 7:07 a.m., a resident in the 400 block of Granite walked outside his house and discovered someone had forced entry into both of his parked cars sometime during the night. Personal property was stolen from inside his vehicles. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
January 4 at 8:34 p.m., a victim in the 400 block of N. Primrose reported that his golf clubs were stolen out of his unlocked vehicle sometime between 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. the day prior. This investigation is continuing.

Attempt Vehicle Burglary
January 4 at 8:35 p.m., a victim in the 300 block of W. Duarte reported that someone tried to break into her car sometime between 7:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., by tampering with the door’s lock. Nothing appears to have been stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Prowling / Weapon Offence – Suspect Arrested
January 5 at 4:34 a.m., the owner of a business in the 200 block of E. Foothill observed a male on a remote camera feed in the back lot of his business near his company trucks. Officers arrived in the area and detained the subject near the business. He claimed he was just "walking through" the area carrying a gas can. No signs of theft were found at the business, but additional follow up will be conducted. An investigation revealed the suspect had a large kitchen knife concealed on his person. He was arrested and taken into custody. This investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
January 5 at 8:36 a.m., a resident in the 900 block of California walked outside her home and discovered someone had forced entry into her locked vehicle sometime during the night and stole her personal property. This investigation is continuing.

Theft
January 5 at 6:59 p.m., a caller located an insurance card, DMV registration, and a vehicle owner’s manual at a parking lot in the 200 block of E. Foothill. Officers arrived and collected the property, which belonged to a subject who was living in the 100 block of N. Ivy. After returning the property to the subject, he learned that she was a theft victim. The property was stolen from her unlocked vehicle sometime the day prior. This investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
January 5 at 9:04 p.m., a resident from the 100 block of Rose, who was out of the country, was watching his surveillance system and saw someone break into his house at approximately 6:00 p.m. The resident contacted his neighbor who called the police. Officers arrived and confirmed that a residential burglary had occurred. A safe was moved from an upstairs bedroom to the living room downstairs, but was not stolen. This investigation is continuing.