Business Emergency Training July 11

The fourth session of Monrovia Fire & Rescue's Business Emergency Resiliency Training (BERT), Emergency Operations & Business Continuity Plans, will take place at the Monrovia Public Library Community Room, on Tuesday, July 11, from 1 to 4 p.m. Details

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Parks, Wilderness and Recreation Foundation Auction July 24-30

Preview items for auction here.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Council Meeting With Supervisor Kathryn Barger

The Monrovia City Council will hold an open meeting (you're welcome to attend) with LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger at the Monrovia Public Library Community Room on Monday, July 10, at 8:30 a.m. Topics: Emergency housing, mental health, Measure H (Homeless Initiative), and requesting supervisors' support for  improvements to Recreation Park. Details

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Woman Escapes Stalker; Man Threatening With Knife; Youths Fighting on Foothill; Drunk Backs into Police Car; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for June 29 – July 5. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 425 service events, resulting in 74 investigations.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested

July 1 at 11:28 p.m., a female adult in the 400 block of S. Myrtle walked to her parked car, where she was confronted by her ex-boyfriend who has been stalking her. He forced her into the backseat of her own car and locked the child locks on the driver's door. She quickly jumped into the front passenger seat and escaped to a nearby business. Officers searched the area for the suspect, but were unable to locate him. This investigation is continuing. 

Medical Assist
July 2 at 3:59 p.m., officers were dispatch to the 300 block of Oakcliff regarding an adult male that collapsed and was unresponsive. They arrived on scene and determined the subject had no pulse and was not breathing. Officers began CPR on the subject and deployed the AED. The AED was utilized numerous times and a pulse was detected. The subject was transported to a medical facility for treatment. 

Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested
July 2 at 10:54 p.m., an officer was patrolling the area of Myrtle and Spanner when he stopped a subject on a bicycle for a traffic violation. The subject had no identification and was in possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and taken into custody. 

Injury Traffic Collision
July 3 at 2:11 p.m., a vehicle in the area of Foothill and Norumbega sideswiped a vehicle. The vehicle continued and struck a separate vehicle. One of the drivers was injured and transported to a medical facility for treatment. 

Mental Evaluation
July 3 at 2:42 p.m., a possible suicide in progress was reported in the 300 block of Valle Vista. Officers arrived and located an adult female who stated she no longer wished to live and had taken a bottle of medication. She was transported to the hospital for treatment and placed on a hold for a mental evaluation. 

Weapon Offense / Mental Evaluation
July 3 at 8:57 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 600 block of E. Olive responded to a call regarding a male suspect threatening people with a knife. Officers arrived and detained the suspect. Officers have had numerous encounters with the suspect. While officers were attempting to take him into custody, a hostile group of family members started to intervene. Officers requested assistance from neighboring department. The subject was taken into custody and due to his past history and mental stability, he was transported to a medical facility for a mental evaluation. 

Vehicle Burglary
July 3 at 9:12 p.m., a business employee in the 1100 block of S. Fifth called to report their work vehicle was broken into and numerous packages were taken. This investigation is continuing. 

Theft of Tools
July 3 at 9:47 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 1600 S. Mountain regarding a theft of power tools. This investigation is continuing. 

Vandalism
July 4 at 8:31 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 500 block of E. Cypress regarding graffiti vandalism. This investigation is continuing. 

Grand Theft
July 4 at 4:26 p.m., a caller in the 400 block of W. Lemon reported the theft of their vehicle’s catalytic converter from. This investigation is continuing. 

Intoxication
July 4 at 4:45 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 300 block of S. Myrtle regarding an intoxicated individual. They arrived and located a male subject that was too intoxicated to care for himself and causing a disturbance. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period. 

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
July 4 at 9:42 p.m., officers responded to the 400 block of W. Foothill regarding a disturbing subject yelling at people. Officers arrived and contacted the subject who was found to be under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested and transported to MPD jail to be held for a sobering period. 

Fight in Progress
July 4 at 10:38 p.m., multiple callers reported a group of juveniles fighting in the 400 block of W. Foothill. When officers arrived, the juveniles ran. One of the juveniles was detained and was found to be under the influence of alcohol. The juvenile was provided medical treatment by MFD and then transported home. 

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
July 5 at 12:10 a.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop in the area of Myrtle and Kruse for a traffic violation. While the officer was standing at the driver’s door talking with the driver, the driver put the vehicle in reverse instead of park and backed into the police vehicle. A DUI investigation revealed the driver was under the influence. The passenger was arrested for public intoxication. Both were arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period. 

Vehicle Vandalism
July 5 at 5:45 a.m., a caller in the 300 block of E. Colorado reported juveniles breaking the window of her daughter’s vehicle. The juveniles fled before the officers arrived. This investigation is continuing. 

Dinner at Dave’s Hot Chicken

Dinner at the new Dave’s Hot Chicken, on the south side of Huntington just west of Mayflower. Like Cane’s, you basically get to choose between chicken and chicken. Got the Dave’s Number 1 combo for $11.99 and a soft drink for $1.99. Okay, they’re not kidding about “hot.” I got the Hot spicyness level, which is actually just the third hotness, preceded by Reaper (hottest) and Extra Hot, but it was plenty hot - my nose is still running. Anyway, it was good and filling. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Tex - Big Personality and Big Heart

According to the saying, “everything is bigger in Texas”, and one-year-old lab mix Tex likes to embody that. He has a huge personality, and an even bigger heart!

Tex has been entertaining the volunteers at Pasadena Humane by romping around in the play yard, chasing tennis balls and letting his ears flap around like bird wings. He hasn’t taken flight yet, but that never stops him! One of his favorite things to do is to splash around in the kiddie pool, then try to shake right next to you. It’s adorable and helps keep you cool!

Tex had some playtime with another dog and they both had a blast. We’re confident that he would do well with a similar-sized buddy, but he’d also be happy being your Lone Star!

Pasadena Humane will be having a Free Adoption Day on Saturday, 7/15, from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. sponsored by longtime donor Gabrielle Bruveris! Adoption fees will be waived for all available dogs, cats, and critters. Adoptions include spay or neuter, a microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines. No appointment necessary. Regular adoption process applies. We will not be offering meet-and-greets between pets, so please leave your family pets at home.

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

City Councils Respond to Jewish Federation Request to Condemn Antisemitism

The Monrovia City Council - and 13 other local cities from Glendale to Rancho Cucamonga and south to Whittier - have passed resolutions agreeing with the American Jewish Committee and US Conference of Mayors' statement to combat antisemitism, and adopting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's definition of antisemitism. The cities were responding to a request by the Monrovia-based Jewish Federation of the Greater San Gabriel and Pomona Valley, which said that the Anti-Defamation League has reported that antisemitic incidents and attacks increased by 36% between 2021 and 2022, with a 41% increase in California. Jewish Federation staff have contacted the remaining 24 cities in the area it covers and are awaiting a response.

Source: Jewish Federation press release

- Brad Haugaard

Happy Fourth of July, Monrovia!

Happy Fourth of July, Monrovia! The view from Foothill.

- Brad Haugaard 

High School Games Class Releases ‘Les Doodle Dogs’

School Board member Maritza Travanti writes: “The Monrovia High School Game Dev Master Class has released this year’s game, Doodle Dogs! Download it now for free on your App Store!”

Your task? Watching some of the toughest dogs in Paris.

“These aren't your average K9's though. It will take some serious playtime to satisfy these Parisian pups! Play through 5 chapters sandwich-fueled and sock-ridden goodness to see how this heartfelt little story plays out. Please enjoy DSA Interactives latest iOS release and let out a little "RUFF RUFF" for puppies everywhere!”

- Brad Haugaard 

Fourth of July Parade in Mayflower Village

As it has for more than 36 years, Mayflower Village will hold a Fourth of July parade along Rochelle Avenue. Bring a folding chair and watch the parade or join in. Show off your classic car or unique vehicle. Kids can decorate bikes, parents can decorate strollers, golf carts, etc. Parade starts at 9 a.m. (line-up at 8:40 a.m.) and ends around 10:30 a.m. Wear patriotic attire. Park on El Sur Street or Avora (blue) between Graydon and Fairgreen; avoid parking on the parade route. Celebrate small-town charm in Mayflower Village.

The route (green): From 2327 Rochelle Avenue, south to Jeffries, east to Graydon, north on Graydon to Armijo, west on Armijo to Fairgreen, south on Fairgreen to Atara, east on Atara to Graydon, south on Graydon to Standish, west on Standish to Fairgreen, south on Fairgreen to Jeffries, east on Jeffries to Treelane, north on Treelane to Altern, east on Altern, south on Rochelle. Source: Facebook post.

- Brad Haugaard

A Moment in Monrovia History: Ivy Avenue Fifth Grade Class Picture

Ivy Avenue School Fifth Grade in 1907. From the Rehrman Family 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

New Rotary President is Karen Lujan

Karen Lujan is the incoming Monrovia Rotary President for the 2023-24 year. She has been a member of the club for 15 years and is known for her ability to inspire and empower others. Karen plans to continue the club's momentum from its Centennial year and focus on meaningful projects in the community and abroad. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering from UCSB and a Master of Business Administration Degree in Technology Management from the University of Phoenix. She works as a Senior Product Line Manager for Siemens Corporation in the Semiconductor Software industry.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Boy Scout Fixes Hidden Veterans' Memorial in Canyon Park

Seventh grade Boy Scout James Vierra, with Troop 66, led a team of scouts to clean up a memorial to Monrovia veterans in Canyon Park that had been hidden until the Bobcat Fire exposed it.

- Brad Haugaard

38 Cats Found in Monrovia Trailer

Thirty-eight cats were found in a Monrovia trailer Friday. All are now listed in stable condition at Pasadena Humane Society and will be available immediately for adoption. Click here for adoption information. Details.

Photo by Loan on Unsplash

- Brad Haugaard

Talk on Monrovia During World War II - July 29

On July 29 at 2 p.m. Dick Singer, author of a trilogy of books on Monrovia history, will give a free talk about Monrovia during World War II, the topic of his latest book, "People Like You and Me, A History of Monrovia in World War II." At the Library Community Room.  Light refreshments and books will be for sale. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Bradbury Cuts Back on Road Widening Project, What Level of Green Electricity Do You Want? Newborn Announcements; Water Quality Good; Water Conservation Helps; KGEM Wins Awards

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

~ The City of Bradbury has cut back on its plan to widen Bradbury Road on the border of Monrovia after working with Monrovia city staff. The focus of the widening will now be on the sharp corner at Bradbury Road and Deodar Lane. Most trees will be unaffected, except two diseased trees that have to be removed regardless. Also, the retaining wall will be reduced in length and height. Additional concerns came up regarding  early morning idling and storm water draining and Monrovia is continuing to work with Bradbury on these issues. More.

~ As part of the Clean Power Alliance Monrovians will be able in 2024 to choose a level of "greenness" for their energy, but the city needs to choose a starting level and it wants your input before selecting that rate. Take the survey here. Background here.  

~ To have your newborn recognized and officially welcomed into the community by the City Council, call the City Clerk's Office at 932-5505 or send an email with first and last name of parents, address, phone number, email address, baby's first, middle and last names, and date of birth.

~ The City of Monrovia 2022 Consumer Confidence Report on Water Quality is now available here. "We are proud to report that the drinking water provided in 2022 meets all Federal and State drinking water standards."

~ Monrovia still wants residents and businesses to conserve water. Here are some rebate offers to help do that:

Convert turf to drought-tolerant and native plants and receive a $4/sq. ft. rebate. Details

Receive $200.00 or more in rebates for purchasing eligible water-saving devices. Details

Get free kits filled with tools to make conservation easier. Details

For questions call Brittany Jasso at 932-5562.

~ Community Media of the Foothills, aka KGEM, has been awarded two Hometown Media Awards for Best Government Meeting Coverage Independent Producer for the November 1, 2022 City Council Recap, and Best Magazine Shows Access Center Professional for KGEM Live - Encore

- Brad Haugaard

Hot This Weekend

Temperatures this weekend are expected to be in the 90s, but could be as high as 109 degrees. (Weather Channel predicts 94 degrees.) LA County Department of Public Health says this could pose a significant health risk, particularly for vulnerable groups such as young children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities. Stay cool and hydrated, and be aware of the signs of heat-related illnesses.

- Brad Haugaard

Parking and Other Details of 4th of July Celebration

Here's where to park, and where not to park, for the Fourth of July celebration at Library Park.

Also, if you want to save a space (10' by 10' max) wait until at least 6 a.m. Also, it must be supervised at all times.

There will be live music (OC Groove, Funk Band), entertainment, and dancing from 7-8:30 p.m. Fireworks at 9 p.m.

Also, pets sometimes run away because of fireworks. Ensure your pet wears a collar with a visible ID tag and has a microchip with your current contact information.

- Brad Haugaard

Post Cards With Old Monrovia Images Available From Historical Society

The Monrovia Historical Society has developed this set of "Monrovia’s The Place" post cards with historic scenes from it's online Legacy Project. The cards are available at Charlie’s House at 430 S Myrtle.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Boyfriend Arrested After Kidnapping Girlfriend; Drunk Drivers; Burglaries; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for June 22 – 28. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 368 service events, resulting in 65 investigations.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
June 23 at 2:14 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 100 block of W. Duarte when he saw a male subject walking around closed businesses. The officer contacted the subject and a records check revealed the subject had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody. 

Grand Theft
June 23 at 1:00 p.m., an employee from a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington reported a male subject stole merchandise and fled the scene. This investigation is continuing. 

Burglary
June 23 at 5:40 p.m., a resident in an apartment complex in the 1100 block of S. Fifth reported that his storage unit had been broken into. This investigation is continuing. 

Drug Activity – Suspects Arrested
June 23 at 7:19 p.m., an employee of a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain called to report two suspicious adult female subjects. Officers arrived and located the female subject. Both subjects were found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia and a records check revealed one had a warrant for her arrest. They also both gave false info about who they were. They were arrested and taken into custody. 

Non-Injury Traffic Collisions / Medical Emergency
June 23 at 8:14 p.m., several hit and run traffic collisions were reported in the area of Mountain and Lemon involving the same suspect vehicle. An investigation revealed that the driver of the suspect vehicle was experiencing a medical emergency. The driver was provided medical treatment by MFD. 

Burglary / Possession of Burglary Tools and Stolen Property – Suspect Arrested
June 23 at 10:33 p.m., a resident of a condo complex in the 1100 block of S. Fifth reported seeing an adult male subject walking through the complex hallways with what appeared to be a crowbar. He stated this is the same person who was seen on surveillance burglarizing one of the building's storage unit days prior. Officers responded and located the suspect. He was found to be in possession of burglary tools and cards belonging to residents of the complex. He was arrested and taken into custody. 

Non-Injury Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 24 at 1:09 a.m., a caller in the 400 block of S. Myrtle reported a motorist had collided with a parked vehicle. Officers responded and located the motorist. A DUI investigation revealed she was driving under the influence. She was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period. 

Injury Traffic Collision
June 24 at 3:35 p.m., officers were dispatched to the area of Peck and Longden regarding an injury traffic collision between a truck and a pedestrian on a scooter. The pedestrian was treated on scene and transported to a local hospital. The party at fault was issued a citation. 

Petty Theft
June 24 at 4:10 p.m., a victim called to report that a spare tire was stolen off her vehicle while she was shopping in the 500 block of W. Huntington. This investigation is continuing. 

Kidnapping / Domestic Violence / Robbery – Suspect Arrested
June 24 at 4:38 p.m., a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington called to report that an employee had just run inside crying and was hiding in the break room. An investigation revealed the victim had been kidnapped, assaulted and robbed by her boyfriend. Officers were later able to locate the boyfriend. He was arrested and taken into custody. 

Felony Domestic Violence Warrant – Suspect Arrested
June 24 at 9:29 p.m., an officer was patrolling the 500 block of W. Huntington when she located a male adult subject loitering in the rear of a business that was closed for the night. A computer check of the subject revealed he had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody. 

Prowling
June 24 at 11:05 p.m., a resident of an apartment complex in the 400 block of E. Foothill received an alert notifying them that a subject was looking into their bedroom window. Officers arrived and searched the area, but the subject was gone. This investigation is continuing. 

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 24 at 11:37 p.m., the passenger of a vehicle in the 100 block of W. Lemon called to report the driver of the car was intoxicated. Officers located the vehicle. A DUI investigation revealed the driver was under the influence. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period. 

Drug Activity / Obstructing / Fraud – Suspect Arrested
June 25 at 12:43 a.m., an officer was patrolling a park in the 1600 block of S. Myrtle when she located a male adult subject loitering in the park after hours. The officer contacted the subject and after a one block foot pursuit he stopped running. He was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia, credit cards belonging to someone else, and warrants. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period. 

Residential Burglary
June 25 at 1:50 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of Terrace View arrived home and discovered someone had forced entry into her home and property was taken. This investigation is continuing. 

Drug Activity – Suspect Arrested
June 25 at 2:16 a.m., a caller in the 900 block of Norumbega reported a suspicious adult male subject in the area. Officers arrived and located the subject. He was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and taken into custody. 

Grand Theft
June 25 at 4:18 p.m., a retail store in the 700 block of E. Huntington reported that an unknown male suspect and female suspects stole fragrances and fled. Officers searched the area but did not locate the suspects. This investigation is continuing. 

Driving Under the Influence / Non-injury Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
June 25 at 10:04 p.m., a caller reported a motorist collided into a parked car in the 600 block of S. Magnolia. Officers arrived and found the driver. A DUI investigation revealed the driver was under the influence. She was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period. 

Burglary
June 26 at 2:39 p.m., a vehicle with a smashed window was located in the 700 block of E. Huntington. The investigation revealed property was taken. This investigation is continuing. 

Brush Fire
June 27 at 2:59 a.m., a passerby in the 1600 block of S Myrtle called to report a possible fire. Officers arrived and located the fire. MFD arrived and extinguished the fire. This investigation is continuing. 

Commercial Burglary
June 27 at 5:40 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of W. Lemon called to report the front window of business was shattered. Officers arrived and confirmed it was a burglary. This investigation is continuing. 

Public Intoxication / Mental Evaluation
June 27 at 8:38 p.m., employees from a business in the 400 block of S. Myrtle reported a male subject was intoxicated and causing a disturbance. Officers arrived and located the subject. It was determined that he was unable to care for himself and he was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period. 

Mental Evaluation
June 27 at 10:39 p.m., officers responded to the 700 block of Walnut regarding a female subject threatening to kill herself. Officers arrived and talked her into putting down a knife. It was determined she was a danger to herself. She was transported to a medical facility for a mental evaluation. 

Vehicle Burglary
June 28 at 5:46 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 700 block of W. Huntington. This investigation is continuing. 

Grand Theft
June 28 at 7:23 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 400 block of Montana regarding a stolen catalytic converter. This investigation is continuing. 

Grand Theft
June 28 at 11:21 a.m., a victim in the 900 block of S. Canyon called to report their catalytic converter was stolen from their vehicle. This investigation is continuing.