Dinner at Panda Express

Dinner at Panda Express, in the Huntington Oak Shopping Center. Got the two entrée plate for $9.90 with vegetables instead of rice or noodles, orange chicken, black pepper steak for an extra $1.25 and a small watermelon mango juice for $2.80. Very good!

- Brad Haugaard 

Online Seminar on Hugelkultur Gardening

The Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District will hold a Zoom seminar on Hugelkultur gardening at 6 p.m. on August 29. "This horticultural practice creates raised planting beds constructed of woody material and other compostable biomass." Free but registration required, here.

- Brad Haugaard

Emily May Be Naughty at Times, But Makes Up For It With Love

Two-year-old Emily is one-of-a-kind! With her beautiful fur and unique eyes, she's sure to turn heads on your daily walks.

Emily isn't just a pretty pup - she's curious, intelligent, and active. She has mastered several commands and would love to learn more. She’s also a fan of toys- she gallops around the yard with a ball or rope toy hanging from her mouth, constantly entertaining the Pasadena Humane volunteers.

A husky like Emily can be a lot of work, and just as much fun! Emily is a people-pleaser, so even if she can be naughty at times, she is quick to make up for it by showering you with affection. This fun-loving gal can't wait to go on adventures with you!

Pasadena Humane is having a FREE adoption day on Saturday, 8/19 from 10:00 – 2:00. All dogs, cats and critters can be adopted for no charge, and no appointments are needed.

The normal 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

Current Local Job Opportunities - August

Here are links to the latest job opportunities for Monrovia:

Monrovia School District 

City of Monrovia 

Private 

There is also a group called Monrovia Works. Search for it on Facebook and ask to join it.

- Brad Haugaard

Boys & Girls Club Honors Interns

Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills celebrated 13 interns from the YES & WIN internship programs. (WIN interns are residents of the City of Duarte. and YES interns are students in the Monrovia Unified School District.) Collectively, they contributed 280 hours of service to the organization over the course of their internships. Both programs provide youth aged 14-17 years with employment and career readiness opportunities. Fall internship and volunteer opportunities with Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills are still available.

- Brad Haugaard

A Moment in Monrovia History: Davis Grocery Store at Myrtle and Colorado

J.R. Davis bought the grocery from G.H. Dingman in April 1888. Davis closed it in 1890 to return to Pennsylvania. (Monrovia Messenger 5/29/1890). SE corner Myrtle & Orange [now Colorado]. John H. Bartle on corner; J. R. Davis on walk. Bob Monheim on wagon. The OddFellows Lodge IOOF met on the second floor. 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

Column on Monrovia World Cup Player Ashley Sanchez

Here is an LA Times column about Monrovian Ashley Sanchez, on the US women’s World Cup soccer team.

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Council: New Auto Repair Rules; Honoring Isaac Epperson; Fixing Roads and Parking South of Library

At its next meeting (agenda here) the Monrovia City Council will consider approving...

~ Rules for auto repair businesses that would regulate working on cars outside of bays, prohibit storing vehicles on-site for more than 14 days, regulate storing auto parts outside, and prohibit parking of vehicles on public streets or alleys. Details.

~ Up to $16,500 for a Neighborhood Treasure Landmark by Phillip Godinez (see sketch) to commemorate Isaac Epperson, first President of Monrovia's National Association for the Advancement of Colored People - a position he held for more than 20 years. Under his leadership, the Monrovia NAACP integrated Monrovia's swimming pool, stores, and restaurants. He helped black women get jobs in retail stores, banks, the school district, and utility companies. Details.

~ $6,042,206 for roadway improvements. For fiscal 2022-2023 this will be for the area between Foothill and Huntington, and from the west city limits to Myrtle. This will include sidewalks, water and sewer lines, and improvements to the parking lots just south of the Library. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Going Green; Cooling Center Open; Youth Sports; Stay Safe From Mosquitoes

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

~ The Monrovia City Council has decided that, by default, all Monrovia electric power will be from renewable energy sources beginning in March 2024. Unless you decide on a different level of green-ness you will pay about $3 more per $100 of energy you use. However, you can select a lower level of renewable power, or opt out entirely. Details. 

~ Monrovia Community Center (119 W. Palm Ave.) cooling center has extended its hours until Aug. 3: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. All ages welcome, minors with guardians. Fans available for check out.

~  Fall season of After School Youth Sports for 4th and 5th graders will be held Aug. 16 to Dec. 21, from 2 to 6 p.m. Registration fee: $105/participant. Full scholarships available. Call 256-8246 for details. Includes transportation, team t-shirt, homework help, snack, sportsmanship lessons, and games on Wednesdays at Recreation Park.

~ There will be a meeting on mosquito health and safety tips Thursday, Aug. 10, 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Library. Learn from SGV Mosquito and Vector Control experts. Free admission, food (while supplies last). For questions, email map@ci.monrovia.ca.us or call 932-5563.

- Brad Haugaard

Meet Cops, Firefighters, and Others at National Night Out Aug. 1 at Library Park

Monrovia Police Department's National Night Out is on Aug. 1, 6-8 p.m., at Library Park. Music, food, games, raffle prizes, and meet personnel from local departments: Fire, Code Enforcement, Neighborhood Services, Pasadena Humane Society, and Foothill Air Support Team.

- Brad Haugaard

Talk on Monrovia During World War Two, 2 PM at Library This Saturday

Monrovia Author Dick Singer will discuss his latest book, People Like You and Me: A History of Monrovia in World War II at the Monrovia Public Library this Saturday, July 29, at 2 p.m. Singer, author of Renaissance Years and 1887, will talk about Monrovians in World War II, including those who served and those who remained on the home front. Free admission, book purchase available with signing. Light refreshments served.

- Brad Haugaard

Paint Your Pet Class Sunday at Community Center

There will be a Paint Your Pet class with Sally Weiss on July 30, 2-5 p.m., at Monrovia Community Center (119 W. Palm Ave). Register by Saturday for the $25 class, limited to 10 participants. MAFA pet portrait artist Sally Weiss will guide you in creating a colorful 9x12" acrylic painting of your pet. Bring a color photo print and a black and white print in your desired size. Materials provided. Free hors d'oeuvres from Rivanis Baking Company, beverages from Wine of the Month Club, and live music by Mina Boktor in the Kay Dalton Room. Register here.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Death by Overdose; Man Pulls Down, Burns, US Flag; Drugs and Alcohol; Etc.

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

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 366 service events, resulting in 57 investigations.

Vehicle Burglary
July 20 at 6:40 a.m., a victim from the 300 block of Linwood reported that someone smashed his vehicle’s window overnight and stole property. This investigation is continuing. 

Possession of a Firearm – Suspect Arrested
July 20 at 6:45 a.m., a caller from the 1200 block of S. Alta Vista reported two suspicious male subjects in the area. Officers arrived and detained the subjects. One of the subjects was found to be in possession of a loaded firearm. He was arrested and taken into custody. 

Theft
July 20 at 8:03 a.m., a victim in the 500 block of N. Alta Vista reported that someone entered into his unlocked vehicle and stole items. This investigation is continuing. 

Grand Theft – Suspect Arrested
July 20 at 4:51 p.m., employees from a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington reported a theft. Officers arrived and detained two female subjects as they were leaving the store. The females were in possession of the items stolen. Both females were arrested and taken into custody. 

Robbery
July 21 at 1:04 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 1900 block of S. Shamrock regarding a theft. The victim stated that the day prior he was approached by an unknown suspect in the 400 block of E. Duarte, punched and his property was taken. This investigation is continuing. 

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
July 21 at 1:39 a.m., a suspicious person was reported in the 300 block of S. Myrtle. Officers arrived and recognized the subject from prior contacts. A computer check of the subject revealed a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody. 

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
July 21 at 1:47 a.m., an officer conducted a patrol check in the 1600 block of S. Myrtle and contacted a female subject for being in the park after hours. A computer check revealed the subject was on parole and had a warrant for her arrest. She arrested and taken into custody. 

Drug Possession / Weapon Offense – Suspects Arrested
July 21 at 11:55 a.m., while patrolling the area of Mayflower and Parker an officer stopped two subjects. One of the subjects was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia and the other and expandable baton. Both were arrested and taken into custody. 

Grand Theft
July 21 at 12:55 p.m., employees of a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington reported a theft in progress. When officers arrived the two male suspects were driving away. A pursuit ensued but was cancelled shortly after, due to unsafe conditions. Some of the merchandise was tagged with GPS trackers and the suspect vehicle was later impounded by LAPD. This investigation is continuing. 

Death Report
July 21 at 1:27 p.m., a caller in the 800 block of Monterey reported that his roommate was not breathing. Officers arrived and the subject appeared to have been deceased for some time. The Coroner's Office responded and are handling the investigation as a possible overdose. 

Injury Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
July 21 at 4:19 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the area of Duarte and Fifth. A DUI investigation revealed one of the drivers was driving under the influence. The other party complained of pain. The drunk driver was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period. 

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
July 21 at 9:28 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 700 block of W. Huntington regarding a call of a woman passed out in a vehicle at the intersection. Officers arrived and discovered the driver was intoxicated. She was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period. 

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
July 22 at 2:29 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation in the area of Peck and Live Oak. The officer contacted the driver and observed signs of impairment. A DUI investigation revealed that the driver was under the influence. The driver was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period. 

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
July 23 at 9:16 p.m., a disturbance was reported in the 100 block of W. Foothill regarding two males arguing. Officers found that one of the subjects was intoxicated. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period. 

Battery
July 24 at 10:45 a.m., officers responded to the 2600 block of S. California regarding a subject hitting another subject. Investigation revealed both subject punched and spit at one another. This investigation is continuing. 

Arson
July 24 at 2:11 p.m., a male subject pulled the American flag down from a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington and set it on fire. The suspect fled the scene prior to officers’ arrival. Shortly after, LASO notified us that they have had similar incidents regarding this suspect. The suspect was later arrested. 

Grand Theft
July 24 at 5:13 p.m., a victim was waved down by a subject. The victim’s purse was in the front passenger seat. While she was distracted by the subject another suspect reached in and stole her purse. This investigation is continuing. 

Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested
July 25 at 1:44 a.m., an officer was extra patrolling the 700 block of E. Huntington and noticed a subject loitering. The officer made contact with the subject and a consent search revealed the subject was in possession of drug paraphernalia. The subject was arrested, issued a citation and released at the scene. 

Illegal Fire – Suspect Arrested
July 25 at 7:23 a.m., officers responded to 600 block of S. Shamrock regarding a male subject near a trash fire. Officers located the male subject who started the fire. He was arrested, issued a citation and released at the scene. 

Attempted Burglary
July 25 at 10:09 a.m., a caller from a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington reported that someone attempted to pry open a door to a business. This investigation is continuing. 

Grand Theft
July 25 at 11:56 a.m., a victim in the 300 block of Genoa called to report that his vehicle’s catalytic converter was stolen. This investigation is continuing. 

Suspicious Circumstances
July 25 at 12:47 p.m., officers responded to the 3300 block of S. Peck regarding a subject who had a firearm in his bag. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject. This investigation is continuing. 

Vandalism – Suspect Arrested
July 26 at 8:15 a.m., officers responded to the 800 block of W. Foothill regarding a male subject that threw a rock at a window, shattering it. The suspect and a witness were located. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody. 

Brandishing
July 26 at 9:42 a.m., officers responded to the area of Duarte and Santa Anita wash regarding a male subject who brandish a firearm. The officers searched the area but did not locate the suspect, weapon, or witnesses. This investigation is continuing. 

Petty Theft
July 26 at 5:08 p.m., an officer responded to the 700 block of E. Huntington regarding a stolen wallet. The victim said her wallet was stolen while she was shopping. This investigation is continuing. 

Vehicle Tampering – Suspect Arrested
July 27 at 12:46 a.m., the alarm company for a vehicle dealership in the 700 block of E. called to report a suspicious subject loitering and walking around entering an unlocked vehicle. Officers arrived and detained the subject attempting to leave the area. The subject was arrested, cited, and released at the scene. 

Hiker Dies in Monrovia Mountains

The South Pasadena hiker who went missing in the mountains above Monrovia did not survive. A friend of his, Andy Connell, wrote on Facebook:

Today is a sad day - my friend, colleague, & bandmate [band Chorro Famoso] Colin Walker disappeared on a hike in the mountains behind Los Angeles about two weeks ago. Last night, his body was discovered by the Sierra Madre Search and Rescue squad who had been searching for him for over 10 days. I am heartbroken - besides being a fine guitarist with an encyclopedic knowledge of Brazilian music, Colin was a husband, father, mentor, and all round great human being. My heart goes out to his wife Marian, son Nolan, and brother Ian. RIP Colin Walker.

- Brad Haugaard 

Lunch at B & C Teriyaki

Lunch at B & C Teriyaki, the food stand at the corner of Foothill and Madison. Got the beef, bean and cheese burrito for $8.89 and a small soda for $1.59. I took a couple bites out of the burrito so you could sort of see what’s inside. It’s cash only and there is some outside seating in the shade. Nice fat burrito. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Hunt for Hiker Still On

The hunt for the missing hiker in the mountains above Monrovia has apparently not been completely called off. A ranger at the Ridgeside entry point to the Wilderness Preserve told me that the entry point was closed because of the search. Also, a helicopter is hovering above one of the hills, as I’m writing this.

- Brad Haugaard 

Search for Missing Hiker Above Monrovia 'Scaled Back'

The search for Colin Walker, the South Pasadena hiker missing in the mountains above Monrovia, was  "scaled back" as of Sunday evening after consulting with Walker's family, according to a post by Sierra Madre Search and Rescue on its Facebook page.

Sierra Madre Search and Rescue will continue efforts to locate him. If you have any information or clues, please contact the South Pasadena Police Department at (626) 403-7297.

The search began on July 17 when Walker's vehicle was found at the Clamshell trailhead off of Ridgeside Drive in Monrovia. The search involved 20 search and rescue teams, helicopters, search dogs, mounted search and rescue, drones, and ATVs from agencies in Los Angeles County and California. The search area covered roughly 40 square miles, with challenging terrain such as steep ridges, waterfalls, canyons, fire-damaged slopes, and dense brush.

Contributing to the search were:

Altadena Mountain Rescue
Antelope Valley Search and Rescue
California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (OES)
California Rescue Dogs Association (CARDA)
California Search and Rescue
China Lake Mountain Rescue Group
Kern County Search and Rescue
LASD Emergency Services Detail/Aero Bureau (Air5)
LASD Mounted Search and Rescue
LASD Reserve Forces Detail
Los Angeles County Fire Department - Air Operations
Malibu Search and Rescue
Marin County Search and Rescue
Montrose Search and Rescue
Orange County Mountain Rescue
Rim of the World Search and Rescue
Riverside Mountain Rescue Unit
San Bernardino Cave Rescue Team
San Bernardino Mountain Search and Rescue
San Diego Mountain Rescue
San Diego Search and Rescue
San Dimas Mountain Rescue
San Gorgonio Search and Rescue
San Luis Obispo Search and Rescue
Santa Barbara Search and Rescue
Santa Clarita Valley Search and Rescue
Upper Ojai Search and Rescue
Ventura County Sheriff Aviation Unit
Ventura East Valley Search and Rescue

Comment: This is sad. I think it is always wise if you are going anywhere unusual in the mountains to let someone know your exact planned route.

- Brad Haugaard

Paint Your Pet Class at Artists Reception July 30

Learn to paint a picture of your pet (register here) at the artist reception July 30, 2-5 p.m., at Monrovia Community Center, 119 W. Palm.

- Brad Haugaard

More Artists Will Display At Saturday's Summer Art Walk Then in Years

Monrovia Association of Fine Arts Past President Christine Geltz reports that there will be 15 artists displaying their works for the Art Walk this Saturday (6-9 p.m.) in Old Town Monrovia, the third highest number in MAFA history and the most in her five year tenure as president. 

- Brad Haugaard

School Board to Evaluate Superintendent

The Monrovia School Board will hold a special session on Wednesday, July 26 at 4 p.m., to evaluate Superintendent Ryan Smith’s performance. There will be a public comment period prior to the board going into close session and a report on the closed session when it reconvenes in open session. Performance evaluations generally occur once a year. Details.

- Brad Haugaard