Monrovia Association of Fine Arts Confers Annual Awards

 

Top: Renaissance Award - (l-r) Monrovia Mayor Tom Adams, Councilmember Gloria Crudgington, ChapCare Marketing Supervisor Kevin Reed, Assemblymember Roger Hernandez representative Arturo Nevarez, Councilmember Becky Shevlin. Middle: Heart in the Arts Award - (l-r) Arturo Nevarez, Tom Adams, MAFA Board Member Christine Geltz, Becky Shevlin, Gloria Crudgington. Bottom: Featured Artists - (back row, l-r) Arturo Nevarez, Tom Adams, Gloria Crudgington, Becky Shevlin (front row, l-r) Featured Artists and MAFA Board Members Marianne and Steve McCarthy.

On Oct. 29, during its annual Celebrate the Arts Show & Chalkfest, the Monrovia Association of Fine Arts held its annual awards ceremony at the Monrovia Public Library front entrance. The ceremony featured City Councilmember and MAFA board member Becky Shevlin as emcee and included a welcome from City Manager Oliver Chi. Festival attendees, artists, friends and fans applauded as award winners received the following acknowledgments:

Renaissance Award: MAFA annually presents its Renaissance Award to an individual or organization in the community that best supports MAFA's mission. On Saturday, Mayor Tom Adams presented this year's Renaissance Award, an original metal sculpture by MAFA artist and board member Bill Hyatt, to ChapCare, represented by Kevin Reed, Marketing Supervisor. ChapCare was honored with this award due to their ongoing support of MAFA's Summer Art Walks and Celebrate the Arts events by providing not only financial assistance but staff time and material resources for children's art education activities.

Heart in the Arts Award:  The Heart in the Arts Award goes each year to a MAFA member who has demonstrated outstanding vision, leadership and accomplishment in supporting MAFA's mission. This year, MAFA President Carol Curtis presented the award to Christine Geltz, MAFA board member, membership & marketing chair and Celebrate the Arts chair. In the past year, Christine instituted the MAFA Professional Development Series for artists, stepped up MAFA's social media presence and initiated development of a new MAFA website which will include membership and organizational management functions.

Featured Artists: MAFA had named Steve and Marianne McCarthy as the 53rd Annual Celebrate the Arts Show Featured Artists last fall. Both professional photographers and longtime MAFA board members, the McCarthy's set the show theme "Art in Motion" with their specialty in vehicle and transportation photography. Steve is also the author of several books including "Road Trippin" and "The Extra Virgin Spy Club."

Recognition for each of the above awards was augmented by certificates of commendation from the City of Monrovia and local, state, and federal officials: U.S. Congresswoman Grace Napolitano, U.S. Congresswoman Judy Chu, State Senator Carol Liu, Assemblyman Chris Holden, Assemblyman Roger Hernandez and L.A. County Supervisor Mike Antonovich

During the ceremony, Christine Geltz also acknowledged the support of several community sponsors who received certificates of commendation: Lisa Barrios of Paint 'n' Play Studio, Penny Arroyo of Volunteer Center of San Gabriel Valley, Chris Shevlin of Chicago Title and Luis Castellanos of Orchard Supply Hardware Monrovia. 

Additional community members and entities commended for their support were Pacific Plate Brewing Company (which donated all the beer for the event's beer garden), Mark Maverick (show sound system and announcer), Post Alarm Systems, Blick Art Supplies, Keith Johnson Photography, Brian Huffman Photography, Ward Auto Service, City of Monrovia Department of Community Services and the City of Monrovia.

Source: Press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Catalytic Converter Stolen; Two Pounds of Meth; Fake Checks and Fake Cash; Shoplifting; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for October 31 – November 2. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 407 service events, resulting in 76 investigations.

Grand Theft Auto
October 31 at 3:08 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 3300 block of S. Peck Road. The vehicle stolen is a 1990's Honda Civic. The investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft
November 1 at 7:45 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of East Pomona called police to report a theft. The catalytic converter was stolen off his 2005 Toyota Camry. The victim parked his vehicle in front of his residence in the evening. When he returned to his vehicle the next morning and started his car, he heard a loud and unusual engine noise coming from his vehicle. He checked and discovered the catalytic converter had been stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of a Controlled Substance for Sales / Weapon Offense – Suspects Arrested
November 1 at 9:47 a.m., an officer conducted a probation compliance search on a female subject that was staying in a hotel in the 700 block of W. Huntington. A male subject was also staying in the hotel room. During the search of the room, the officers located a loaded firearm, almost two pounds of methamphetamine, a vial of PCP, over $2000 in cash, and drug sales paraphernalia. The male subject was determined to be an ex-felon who was currently out on bail for a Monrovia Police Department drug sales case. The officer arrested both subjects for possession for sales of methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance, and several other weapon and drug related charges. Both subjects were held pending their court appearance.

Fraud / Possession of Counterfeit Currency – Suspect Arrested
November 1 at 4:54 p.m., a bank in the 500 block of S. Myrtle called police to report a fraud incident. A male suspect went into the bank and attempted to cash a fraudulent business check for $7000. Officers were dispatched to the bank and they detained the suspect. The officer arrested the suspect for attempting to pass a fraudulent check. The officer searched the suspect after arresting him and found a counterfeit $20 bill in his wallet. The suspect was also charged with possession of counterfeit currency.

Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
November 2 at 2:55 a.m., an officer on patrol contacted two suspicious subjects loitering near closed businesses in the 1800 block of Santa Fe Place. A consent search of one of the subjects revealed he was in possession of methamphetamine. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
November 2 at 9:00 a.m., officers were on patrol in the 100 block of W. Colorado when they observed a male and female subject in a vehicle. The officer recognized the male passenger and knew he had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. The officer stopped the vehicle and the male passenger fled on foot from the vehicle, leaving the female behind. The officer broadcast the information on his location and the fleeing suspect. He then contacted the female, who was found to be in possession of methamphetamine and possible stolen property. She was arrested for the charges. The male subject was not located.

Vehicle Burglary
November 2 at 9:10 a.m., officers responded to a hotel in the 900 block of W. Huntington Drive on the report of a vehicle burglary. The victim parked and secured his vehicle in the parking lot on November 1. When he returned to his vehicle the next day, he saw the rear hatch door had been pried open and the third-row seat had been stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
November 2 at 9:25 a.m., police located a stolen vehicle in the area of Myrtle and Chestnut and stopped the vehicle at Huntington and Mayflower. The driver was found to be a parolee at large. He was also found to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Shoplifting – Suspects Arrested
November 2 at 3:25 p.m., a petty theft was reported at a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain Avenue. A male and female entered the business and concealed items on their person while inside the store. They both exited the store without attempting to pay for the merchandise. Loss prevention personnel stopped and detained them. The suspects were arrested and taken into custody.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
November 2 at 6:39 p.m., employees at a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain saw a subject exit the rear security doors of the store and throw a drill over a wall. The subject eventually exited the store, recovered the drill and walked away from the location. Officers located the suspect one block away and recovered the stolen power drill. The suspect was positively identified by the witnesses and was arrested.

Weapon Offense – Suspect Arrested
November 2 at 8:48 p.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop on a male adult for traffic violations. The driver had a loaded pistol in his waistband. He stated that he was a security guard, but he did not have a permit to carry a loaded firearm. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
November 2 at 9:36 p.m., a possible drunk driver was reported at Myrtle and Camino Real. Officers responded and located the vehicle traveling north on Myrtle at Central. They saw the driver crash into the center divider. Monrovia Fire Department paramedics responded and the driver was taken to the hospital. After the driver was medically cleared, he was arrested for driving under the influence.

Battery
November 2 at 10:40 p.m., officers responded to the 100 block of E. Cherry regarding several neighbors fighting in the alley. After interviewing the involved parties, the victim made a citizen's arrest of the suspect. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
November 2 at 11:38 p.m., while conducting extra patrol in the 100 block of W. Cherry, officers located a subject inside a parked car. The male adult is a known drug addict and told officers he had syringes in his possession. A search of the subject revealed baggies of methamphetamine and heroin. The suspect was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, heroin and drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and taken into custody for the drug charges.

Driving Under the Influence / Resisting and Delaying a Peace Officer – Suspect Arrested
November 3 at 4:02 a.m., an officer on patrol in the 1500 block of S. Myrtle saw a vehicle drive off the freeway and strike the center divider as he attempted to turn onto Myrtle. The officer conducted a traffic stop. The driver was determined to be intoxicated and was arrested for DUI. The passenger would not cooperate with the officer and refused to exit the vehicle; he was arrested for resisting/delaying an investigation. The driver was arrested for DUI and unsafe turning movement. The passenger was arrested for delaying an investigation.

Honoring Veterans | Health and Wellness | Monrovia vs. South Pas | Elf Movie

~ Citrus College, which serves Monrovia, will honor the men and women who have served in our nation's military at its 11th annual Saluting Our Veterans program. The public is encouraged to attend this free event, which takes place on Thursday, Nov. 10 from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at the Campus Center Mall, 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora.

~ A Health and Wellness event will be held at Clifton Middle School on Friday, November 4, 2016 from 10:30-11:30 a.m., and will be open to students who attend the school. Source: Press release.

~ Preview of Friday's football game against South Pasadena. https://goo.gl/er2LP0

~ Free screening of the movie, Elf, on Saturday, Nov. 12 at 10 a.m. at the Monrovia Public Library. For free tickets call 205-4308 or email movie@monroviaproviders.org. Light refreshments, aging resources available.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Fire Insurance Rates May Go Down; So Should the Interest Rates It Pays; Fuzzy Employees; Opening of Hillside Gate; Big Burglary Bust

In his weekly report ( https://goo.gl/hvyhds ), City Manager Oliver Chi reports:

~ Improvements to the Monrovia Fire Department could save property owners from 6-8% on their fire insurance.  "If we are successful in raising our ISO rating from a Class 3 to an ISO rating of Class 2, the net result for property owners would be a noticeable and measurable decrease in fire insurance premiums."

~ Monrovia's bond rating has been improved to AA- by Standard & Poor, the bond rating agency, which brings it up to "high grade investment level." In short, this means the city pays less to borrow money. "It wasn't that long ago that securities from the City were considered lower medium grade investments in the BBB- to BBB+ range." The S&B rating levels go up several more notches, to "prime," which is an AAA rating.

~ If you see fuzzy city employees this month, it is because this is "No Shave November," a cancer awareness event.  All City staff who participate pay $40, all of which will go to fight cancer. Participants will forgo shaving during the entire month of November, and maybe win an award, like the "50 Shades of Grey" award for the best natural grey beard.

~ The city is "just about finished" with all of the needed capital enhancements to open the Cloverleaf and Ridgeside Access Points to the Hillside Wilderness Preserve. There will be a "soft" opening this week, in which trail enthusiasts will be invited to test it out, then the final work will be completed (mostly signs and stuff) and then on Nov. 15 the City Council will give its final approval.

~ Monrovia Police had a big success recently. Four burglary suspects in one day. Here's more detail: https://goo.gl/hvyhds

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Pushed Out of Car; Loud Halloween Party; Stolen Mail; Safe Keeps It Safe; Driver Hits Parked Cars; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for October 27-30. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Commercial Burglary
October 27 at 7:55 a.m., officers responded to a business in the 900 block of W. Foothill on the report of a glass front door that had been shattered. Officers arrived and cleared the location. No suspects were found. It was determined that a small amount of cash was taken from the cash drawer and no other items were taken. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
October 27 at 1:55 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of W. Hillcrest phoned police to report her home had been burglarized. The homeowner came home and found a drawer to her dresser was open and her wedding ring and some costume jewelry was missing. There was no sign of forced entry. The investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary
October 27 at 10:21 p.m., officers were dispatched to an alarm activation at a business in the 800 block of E. Huntington. Officers arrived and found the doors had been forced open and a safe was located on the landing in the stairwell. The building was searched, but no suspects were located. The owner of the business arrived and assessed the building. It appears nothing else was missing and the safe was recovered. The investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft
October 28 at 10:45 a.m., the victim of a petty theft reported that her wallet was taken out of her purse while she was shopping at a store in the 600 block of W. Huntington. She had walked away from her cart and left her purse in the cart. She did not realize her wallet had been taken until she was checking out. She then received a call from her bank indicating someone had recently tried to use her credit card to purchase merchandise from a target store and did not have the proper identification. The investigation continuing.

Residential Burglary
October 28 at 4:25 p.m., a resident in the 500 block of Norumbega called police to report his residence had been burglarized. Officers arrived and cleared the location, but no suspects were located. It appears the suspect gained entry through a rear window that had been left unlocked and took jewelry from the residence. The investigation is continuing.

Theft From a Vehicle
October 28 at 4:33 p.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 600 block of Maryanna Lane. The vehicle was inside a closed residential garage. The vehicle was broken into and miscellaneous items were taken. A bicycle was also taken from inside the garage. The investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence
October 28 at 8:19 p.m., police received several calls reporting that a female subject had been thrown from a moving vehicle and was lying in the street at Pomona and Raymond. Officers arrived and found the female. She had a head injury and was taken to a hospital for treatment. She told the officer the suspect was her boyfriend and they were involved in an argument. The female wanted to get out of vehicle, so she opened the door while it was moving. The suspect then hit her and pushed her out of the vehicle. The suspect vehicle left the area and was not located. The investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence / Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
October 29 at 3:12 a.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 2100 block of S. Peck Road. The caller stated that a single vehicle had struck several parked cars and the driver was out of his vehicle. When the officers arrived, they located the driver sitting in the back of another vehicle. The driver had called his mom and stepsister after the collision and they had driven to the scene. Officers spoke to the driver and could see he had bloodshot watery eyes and slurred speech. As a result of the collision, he had a complaint of pain and was taken to the hospital for further treatment. The driver was determined to be intoxicated and was later arrested.

Petty Theft / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia / Warrants – Suspect Arrested
October 29 at 4:35 p.m., a petty theft was reported at a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington. A male subject entered the store and concealed merchandise on his person. Loss prevention called police and informed officers that the same subject had done this repeatedly and he runs when he is confronted. Officers located the subject outside the store and a short foot pursuit ensued. The suspect was detained and arrested a short distance away. He was also found to be in possession of a methamphetamine pipe and had warrants for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody for the charges.

Grand Theft Auto
October 29 at 7 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 1000 block of E. Royal Oaks. The victim parked his vehicle on the street. When he returned to his vehicle a few hours later, he discovered it was missing. The vehicle is a 1990, blue, Honda Civic. The investigation is continuing.

Disturbing the Peace
October 29 at 10:57 p.m., a large Halloween party was being held at a location in the 500 block of N. Alta Vista. Police had been to the location one time prior and the resident was given a loud party notice. The second time back to the location, it was determined the party needed to end and the party guests were encouraged to leave the location while officers waited. Due to the large size of the party and the unruly young adults at the party, assistance was requested from neighboring agencies. The majority of the party guests left without incident.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
October 30 at 3:30 p.m., an officer responded to the report of a male subject passed out behind the wheel of his vehicle at the intersection of Myrtle and Duarte. Officers arrived and located the vehicle and subject. It was quickly determined that the subject had been drinking and was extremely intoxicated. He was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Mail Theft – Suspects Arrested
October 30 at 4:52 p.m., officers responded to the report of two male subjects throwing items into a business trash bin. Officers located the subjects and determined the items being discarded were large quantities of mail that did not belong to the subjects. A third subject was located inside the store purchasing merchandise with a stolen credit card. The subject was also in possession of a US Mail master key. He was arrested and taken into custody. The other two suspects were arrested for possession of the mail they had discarded.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
October 30 at 9:41 p.m., an officer on patrol heard a vehicle alarm sounding at a business in the 700 block of W. Huntington. He looked and saw a female running away from the vehicle. She jumped into another vehicle that was leaving the lot. The officer conducted a traffic stop to investigate the vehicle alarm. The female stated that it was a rental car and it was acting up. A computer check revealed she had three warrants for her arrest. She was arrested and taken into custody. The vehicle was stored and may have been rented with fraudulent credit. The investigation is continuing.

Monrovia Company Gets Netherlands Contract for Drones | Produce in the Park

~ Monrovia's AeroVironment has been awarded a $10.3 million contract from the Netherlands Ministry of Defence for small drones, upgrades and support services. Delivery is anticipated within six months. https://goo.gl/c1aEIt

~ Monrovia Produce in the Park will meet on Saturday, Nov. 5, rain nor shine from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Mark Twain Bench at Library Park. Bring produce to share.

- Brad Haugaard

Ready for Halloween

 

This house at 223 N Canyon is definitely ready for Halloween. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Airbnb at Monrovia City Council | Health Insurance Help

~ At its next meeting ( https://goo.gl/07c9jA ) the Monrovia City Council will hear an "Overview of Issues Related to Airbnb" by Community Development Director Craig Jimenez. Airbnb is an extremely popular online service that lets you rent a home or room to travelers. There is no written staff report on this item but I suspect the report will touch on some of the objections to the service outlined in this article: https://goo.gl/W8ccF5

~ Health insurance open enrollment begins Nov. 1 and low-income people may be eligible for payment assistance. If you think you may qualify, check with ChapCare (513 E. Lime Avenue, Suite 102, Monrovia, CA 91016, Tuesday and Thursday, from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., 486-9729).

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Oto-Oto Japonaise

 

Dinner last night at Oto-Oto Izakaya Japonaise restaurant in the shopping center at Fifth and Huntington. I got the Jidori Chicken Deep Fried Karaage Set for $12.95 and a beer for $5. Oops! I ate a little noodle dish and part of the salad before taking the picture. Sorry. Anyway, it was very good and very filling. 

- Brad Haugaard

Old Albertson's Shopping Area in East Monrovia Being Bought

It appears the shopping center at Shamrock and Huntington, where Albertson's used to be, is being purchased. Calmwater Capital reports that it is loaning $19.8 million to a company called 723 EHD LLC for purchasing the property and for tenant improvements. https://goo.gl/ZxxeCC

- Brad Haugaard

Elect a Cat or Dog - These Candidates Stay Bought!

Whether you plan to vote RePUPlican or DemoCAT, Elect to Adopt at the Pasadena Humane Society this election season. From Nov. 1 through Nov. 8 help an animal in need race to the "right house" by casting your ballot for shelter pets. The Pasadena Humane Society serves Monrovia.

Elect to Adopt includes:

• Reduced adoption fees for all available pets, including $30 dog adoptions, $10 cat adoptions and $5 rabbit adoptions.
• "Meet the Candidates" pet adoption boards posted around the shelter.
• "I Adopted" stickers for new pet adopters.
• "Elect to Adopt" ballots where adopters can write why they chose their new pet.

All shelter pets will be spayed or neutered, microchipped and receive a set of vaccines before going to their new homes. PHS will be open during normal adoption hours, Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Regular adoption screening applies.

View our patriotic pooches, cats and rabbits online at https://goo.gl/5ehE5O .

Source: Press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Fake Check to Buy Car; Four Burglary Suspects Arrested; Bike Stolen, Suspect Arrested; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for October 24-26. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 404 service events, resulting in 75 investigations.

Fraud Report
October 24 at 7:41 p.m., a fraud incident was reported by a resident in the 1200 block of S. Alta Vista. The victim stated she was selling a vehicle and the buyer sent a check with an overpayment. The buyer stated to cash the check and mail the balance to an out-of-state third party. The bank then notified the victim that the check was fraudulent and they were now taking the balance out of her account. The victim then called police to report the fraud. The investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence / Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
October 24 at 8:21 p.m., officers responded to the 100 block of N. Madison on the report of a traffic collision. The driver collided with two parked vehicles and caused major damage to all three vehicles involved. The driver was found to be intoxicated and was arrested for DUI.

Burglary in Progress – Suspects Arrested
October 25 at 9:04 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 300 block of E. Palm on the report of two male suspects seen jumping into a yard and the sound of glass breaking. Officers arrived on scene and saw the suspects fleeing the location. Containment of the area was set up and officers began searching for the suspects. They were found trying to hide in some bushes nearby. The suspects were arrested and taken into custody.

Burglary in Progress – Suspects Arrested
October 25 at 10:28 a.m., a burglary in progress was reported in the 800 block of W. Hillcrest. Two male suspects were seen in the backyard of a residence. Officers arrived on scene and saw the two suspects hiding in the backyard. Both suspects fled when they saw the officers. The suspects fled in different directions and containment of the area was set up. The Foothill Air Support Team helicopter located and assisted officers with the apprehension of one suspect, as he was running between houses trying to get away. The second suspect was located shortly after that and detained. Both suspects were arrested and taken into custody.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
October 25 at 4:06 p.m., officers responded to the area of Mayflower and Lemon on the report of a subject who was acting strange and causing a disturbance. The officers arrived and determined the subject was under the influence of drugs. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
October 25 at 4:27 p.m., an employee from a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington called police to report a theft that had just occurred. A male suspect had removed tags from clothing and fled the store wearing some of the merchandise and carrying some as well. Officers checked the area and located the suspect attempting to board a bus and flee the area. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
October 25 at 5:08 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 900 block of E. Huntington regarding a boyfriend and girlfriend fighting. The male and female were involved in an argument and the male subject, who had been drinking, pushed the female. He then punched her and grabbed her phone out of her hand as she tried calling for help. The male suspect was arrested for domestic violence.

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
October 26 at 9:45 a.m., a suspect was reported trespassing at a residence in the 200 block of Stedman. The suspect in this incident was advised by police the day before that a no trespass order had been signed by the resident and he was not allowed on the property. He decided to return and was arrested for trespassing.

Vehicle Burglary
October 26 at 2:34 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported at a business parking lot in the 900 block of W. Huntington. The suspect gained entry into a locked vehicle that had been parked in the parking lot and stole tools that were left inside. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Bicycle / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia / Possession of Burglary Tools / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
October 26 at 8:39 p.m., a bicycle was reported stolen from a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington. An officer located the suspect and stolen bike traveling east on Genoa and stopped the suspect just west of Magnolia. The suspect admitted to cutting the bike lock with bolt cutters and stealing the bike. The suspect was arrested for grand theft, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of burglary tools and a warrant out of Santa Clara County.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
October 26 at 9:29 p.m., an officer was dispatched on the report of a suspicious subject behind a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington. The officer arrived and found a male adult asleep inside a vehicle with a syringe in plain view. The officer woke the suspect and arrested him for possession of drug paraphernalia.

Driving Under the Influence / Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
October 27 at 4:30 a.m., a citizen called police to report a vehicle driving down Pomona that struck several parked vehicles. Officers arrived and located the damaged vehicles and the suspect. The driver was found to be intoxicated and was arrested for driving under the influence.

Columnist Says Monrovia's Leadership Already Racially Diverse

After talking with Mayor Tom Adams and City Manager Oliver Chi, Star-News columnist Larry Wilson takes a position - contrary to his newspaper's - that Monrovia has had plenty of racially diverse leadership (a legal threat by the Mexican American Legal Defense Fund notwithstanding). https://goo.gl/dX3du4

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Groundwater at 'Critically Low Level'; Christmas Tree Lighting; Construction Company Repentant; Etc.

A preview of what one of the trail-entry signs will look like for the soon-to-be-fully-opened Hillside Wilderness Area.

In his weekly report ( https://goo.gl/zTUiOE ), City Manager Oliver Chi reported that ...

~ "Groundwater levels in the Main San Gabriel Basin are at such a critically low level that no matter how much rain we receive, we will not be able to restore the Basin to a safe level without purchasing imported water." The water district will have to import water to increase groundwater levels. This means the water district will "consider implementing a special assessment."

~ Christmas tree lighting on Thursday, Dec. 1, followed by the Holiday Parade, which will have an historic theme. The Monrovia Historic Preservation Group will be the grand marshall.

~ The company that did work on the house at 209  W. Scenic Ave. without proper permits has apologized, was fined $2,000, and will bring its plans to the Historic Preservation Commission for review.

~ There will be a town-hall style meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 27 at the Monrovia Community Center to discuss ballot propositions. Topics: Proposition 57 (early parole / early criminal release), 62 (death penalty repeal), 64 (recreational marijuana use legalization), & 66 (death penalty process changes to speed up executions)

~ There will be a Native Garden Plant Sale on Nov. 12, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Library Park. Also, the Public Works Division will provide a series of waterwise gardening presentations. Questions? Call Community Services at 256-8246.

- Brad Haugaard

Metro Gold Line Has Resulted in $6.7 Billion in Private Investment

A report by real estate and business consulting firm, The Maxima Group, that studied the existing and potential economic impact of transit related projects along the Foothill Gold Line from Los Angeles to Montclair, found that existing and underway projects near the 18 Gold Line stations from Chinatown to Montclair have resulted in $6.7 billion in private investment along the corridor since 2003. More than 12,500 new housing units, 3.6 million square feet of commercial space, and 1,400 hotel rooms have been built within a half-mile radius of a Gold Line station. These investments have resulted in the creation of nearly 50,000 direct and indirect jobs during construction, 20,000 on-going jobs for Los Angeles County workers, and $50 million in annual tax revenues to the county.

Source: Press release

- Brad Haugaard

Armed Men Pursued in North Monrovia

According to Facebook chatter, police appear to be after one or more armed suspects in north Monrovia, around the west end of Hillcrest. Older black BMW. Helicopter.

Update: Apparently man being told by loudspeaker to come out of residence near El Nido.

Update 2: Two men apparently in handcuffs. Is there a third?

Update 3: There is a report that Mayflower School has been released from lockdown.

Update 4: Police have apparently declared a "Code 4," meaning the situation is under control.

There should be a detailed report later in the week, which I will post on MonroviaNow.com.

- Brad Haugaard

First Bears, Now Bobcats

Jeff Schmidt writes on Facebook this morning about a bobcat:

"Last night (this morning) around 2am a bobcat attacked our bunnies on our front porch on the 100 block of N. Canyon. It dragged the large, locked, wheeled cage across the porch and one of the three bunnies had its head stuck between the bars. Other than the trauma and some blood near its mouth they all appear ok. The bobcat was sitting on our neighbors lawn watching us free the bunny and then walked south, unaffected by my aggressive moves toward scaring it away. This is the first run-in we've had in 3+ years. Scary to see a bobcat this far south."

- Brad Haugaard

Help Unity Center Help Low-Income Families

Foothill Unity Center could use some help to help local low income families for the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons. You need to register to volunteer because there are a limited number of positions available for each shift.  Registration will be for individuals and groups.  All volunteers under the age of 14 must have parental supervision.

Details for Thanksgiving season: https://goo.gl/N7SD99

Details for Christmas season: https://goo.gl/JoVjeV

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Tree Hits Car; Burglary Attempt; Stolen Necklace; Exploding Transformer; Head-Butting; Bicyclist Resists Arrest; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for October 20-23. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Grand Theft Auto
October 20 at 10:24 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen in the 300 block of W. Duarte. The victim reported the vehicle was taken from her parking lot. The vehicle was a 1997 silver Honda Accord. The vehicle was allegedly locked and there were no signs of forced entry.

Residential Burglary Attempt
October 20 at 12:35 p.m., two suspicious male subjects were reported in the 1200 block of Orange. The caller said he did not recognize the subjects and saw them going onto a neighbor’s property. While officers were in the area a residential alarm was received from that location. Officers responded and located a broken rear window. A containment was set and the home owner was located. After clearing the residence officers reviewed video surveillance that showed a subject matching the subjects’ description ringing the doorbell prior to the window being broken. The investigation is continuing.

Tree Emergency
October 20 at 3:45 p.m., officers responded to a call in the area of Olive and Monterey regarding a tree that fell into the street and struck a vehicle occupied by two people. The people were not injured but the vehicle was damaged and the street was closed for removal of the tree and repair of some overhead wires that were damaged.

Robbery
October 20 at 10:27 p.m., a robbery was reported in the area of Huntington and Myrtle. The victim said he used a website to advertise a necklace he wanted to sell. A buyer responded to the post and they agreed to meet. Once at the location, the buyer looked at the necklace and asked the victim some general questions. While negotiating a price, three friends of the buyer walked up and joined in on the conversation. One of the friends removed what the victim believed was a pellet shotgun from underneath his clothing and pointed it at the victim. The buyer left with the necklace and the three friends followed. They ran south from the location and out of sight. The investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary
October 21 at 6:15 a.m., officers responded to the report of a broken glass entry door at a business in the 200 block of E. Foothill. Officers cleared the business and discovered the cash register had been pried open. Approximately $100 was taken. The investigation is continuing.

Utility Problem
A power outage was reported in the area of Foothill and Fifth. A transformer exploded at Foothill and 2nd causing the intersection lights to go out and the emergency flashing system began. The police department received several calls and complaints. The lights were restored at approximately 4 p.m.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
October 21 at 8:34 p.m., a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington called police to report a male subject was being detained inside the office for shoplifting. The merchandise was recovered and the officers arrested the subject.

Missing Located
October 21 at 9:33 p.m., officers were dispatched to a call of a missing person in the 1600 block of S. Myrtle. The caller reported a critical missing person from a licensed facility. The subject's cell phone plotted to the listed area and officers responded and located the subject. The subject was detained and later picked up by an outside agency.

Battery – Suspect Arrested
October 21 at 11:25 p.m., a battery incident was reported in the 700 block of E. Lemon. The victim reported that he was walking through the park when he was approached by the suspect. The suspect head-butted the victim on the face which caused the victim to fall. The suspect then punched the victim on the face. The victim stood up and ran away leaving behind some personal property. Officers arrived and located the suspect a short distance away with the victim's property in his possession. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody. The victim was transported to the hospital for his injuries.

Public Intoxication – Suspects Arrested
October 21 at 11:53 p.m., officers responded to the report of a male and female passed out on a sidewalk in the 100 block of Highland. Officers arrived to the location and determined the subjects were intoxicated. The subjects were arrested and taken into custody to the Monrovia Police Department.

Grand Theft Auto
October 22 at 8:25 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen in the 600 block of E. Walnut. The owner of the vehicle reported his 2016 Honda Accord was stolen from the street near his home. There was no evidence located at the scene. The vehicle was found at approximately 2:30 p.m. by San Bernardino Sheriffs in Victorville.

Resisting / Traffic Violation – Suspect Arrested
October 21 at 8:18 p.m., an officer on patrol in the 700 block of E. Huntington Dr. observed a bicyclist commit a vehicle code violation and attempted to make a traffic stop. The suspect got off the bike and fled on foot. The suspect was detained a short distance away and taken into custody for resisting arrest. The suspect was later released with a citation to appear in court.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
October 21 at 9:54 p.m., a resident in the 1400 block of S. Magnolia called to report a subject who appeared to be asleep on the sidewalk. Officers arrived, contacted the subject and determined he was too intoxicated to care for himself. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
October 22 at 12:14 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the area of California and Shrode when he noticed a vehicle swerving on the roadway. The officer made a traffic stop and the investigation revealed the driver was too intoxicated to drive a motor vehicle. The suspect was arrested.

Commercial Burglary
October 22 at 1:39 a.m., an alarm company called to report an activation at a business in the 900 block of W. Duarte Rd. Officers arrived and found a window had been shattered. After further investigation it was determined two male suspects smashed a window to gain entry and stole miscellaneous items from the location. The suspects fled prior to the officers’ arrival. The investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary
October 22 at 4:11 a.m., an alarm company called to report an activation at a business in the 800 block of W. Huntington Dr. Officers arrived and found one of the entry/exit doors had been pried open. It appears the suspect forced entry but met with another set of doors that was chained shut and did not allow further access into the building. The investigation is continuing.

Bears vs People - Who Was First?

Whenever there is an unpleasant encounter with wildlife - especially bears - I've noticed that some people say that we should get used to it because, basically the bears were here first, but ... that is apparently not exactly the case for the black bears we have in our hillside area.

I asked Bob Dollins, who gives nature tours and serves as a volunteer ranger at Monrovia Canyon Park about the arrival of the black bears. He writes back that:

"Yes, all the black bears we now see in the Angeles National Forest and San Bernardino National Forest are descendants from a group of 'problem bears' from Yosemite National Park that were trapped back in the early 1930s and released here."

And he sends this KCET article about the arrival of the black bears: https://goo.gl/XfvGSl

- Brad Haugaard