Dinner at DVine Mediterranean Express

Dinner at DVine Mediterranean Express, in the Vons parking lot at Myrtle and Foothill. Got the Hummus with Chicken Shawarma, with tabouleh and cucumber yogurt salad as sides, for $17.99 and a soda for $1.99. Lots of food and delicious!

- Brad Haugaard 

School Board Confirms Flint Fertig is New Interim Superintendent

- Brad Haugaard

Flint Fertig Reportedly Interim Monrovia Schools Superintendent

On her Monrovia Messenger Facebook page, Gayle Montgomery says that "two knowledgeable sources" have told her that Flint Fertig has been named as interim Superintendent of Monrovia School District, replacing Ryan D. Smith. The district website, however, still lists Smith as superintendent. 

Fertig is in charge of Alternative Education, including Canyon Oaks High School, Mountain Park School, and Monrovia Community Adult School.

I did an article about Fertig years ago and was highly impressed by him. You can see it here. 

- Brad Haugaard

Mike the Beaming Boxer - Like a Kid in a Candy Store

Who can resist Mike's smile?! Not us! This four-year-old boxer beams from ear to ear whenever he gets visitors, and his tail wags non-stop when he gets pets.

Mike was so shy when he first arrived at the shelter that he would even hide in the back of his kennel. Now we're getting to see his true personality, and he is FUN. He loves going to the training yard and exploring. He adores toys and games and bounces from one toy to another like a kid in a candy store. All traces of shyness seem to be behind him, and his bubbly personality is on full display.

He also is quite cuddly when he settles down. He curls up close for pets and will put his big head in your lap for more. Mike is also very clever- he loves to show off all his tricks whenever he sees a treat.

Mike is just so excited to meet everyone he can't help but smile!

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

A Moment in Monrovia History: First Photo of a Monrovia Land Sale

The Ocean View subdivision sale pictured here included the area bounded by what is now known as Hillcrest, Greystone, Myrtle and Canyon. This is the earliest picture of a land sale in Monrovia; the first actual land sale was May 17, 1886. 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

Children's Innovation Lab at Library Wednesday

Monrovia Public Library will host Innovation Lab on Sept 20, this Wednesday, from 4-5 p.m. in the Story Room, for children from 6 to 11 years old. It will feature a STEAM-related activity. Registration is required, here. For children and accompanying adults; drop-offs are not permitted. Contact the library at jtuszynski@ci.monrovia.ca.us or 256-8274 for more information.

-Brad Haugaard

School Board May Appoint Interim Superintendent

The Monrovia School Board will meet in special closed session Wednesday Monday with just two items on its agenda: 

1. Public Employee Discipline/Dismissal/Release 
2. Appointment - Interim Superintendent

Although the individual referred to in item 1 is not specified, Superintendent Ryan Smith has been criticized on social media lately and his performance was recently evaluated by the school board. Also, the need to appoint an interim superintendent suggests that the current superintendent may not be in charge for much longer.

There will be an opportunity for public comment before the closed session, and a report on any action taken during the closed session when the board reconvenes in public. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

High School Student Fixes Up Ranger Station; Meeting About New Park; Cornhole Competition; Plant Native Plants; Book Drive for Prisoners; Beer, Wine, Music; Golden Plate Awards

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

~ High school student and eagle scout, Stefin Bank, and Boy Scout Troop 66 of Monrovia, raised funds to renovate the Ranger Station at Monrovia Canyon Park. The project was completed on September 3, 2013. The video above tells the story.

~ The Monrovia Community Services Department will hold a meeting on Saturday, October 7 at 10 a.m. at the new park location (1111 Encino Ave). There will be an overview of the park and information about how to submit a park name or theme. Recommend a name for the park here by Sept. 28.

~ The Kiwanis Club of Monrovia will hold its 3rd Annual Kiwanis Cornhole Competition this Saturday, Sept. 16, from 2 to 8:00 p.m. at 212 W. Foothill Blvd. Details. 

~ Help plant native plants and fix school gardens at local school and community gardens this Saturday, Sept. 16, from 8:30 - 11:30 a.m. Sponsored by Food ED. All ages and abilities welcome. Register here. 

~ The Monrovia Historical Museum is participating in a book drive to benefit the LA County Jail Library. Bring used paperback books to the Museum (742 E Lemon Ave.) this Sunday, Sept. 17, or Thursday, Sept. 21.

~ The Chamber of Commerce will hold its 8th Annual Beer, Wine, and Music Festival Saturday, Sept. 23 from 4 - 8 p.m. at Library Park. Live music and food trucks. Tickets are $40 presale and $50 at the door. For those 21 and older. Details 

~ Foothill Unity Center will hold its 2023 Golden Plate Awards Gala on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023, from 6 - 8:30 p.m., at The Noor (300 E. Colorado Blvd. #200, Pasadena). For more information contact the Foothill Unity Center at info@foothillunitycenter.org.

- Brad Haugaard

 

GoFundMe Page Set Up for Boy Who Died in Fiery Car Crash

A GoFundMe page (here) has been set up for Yariel Reneau, the boy who recently died in the fiery car crash on Duarte Road. The page describes him as a "happy, and energetic young boy who loved riding his bicycle and skateboard. He was going to turn 12 years old this Wednesday, September 13th." At this writing, the goal of $12,000 has been far exceeded, with $16,891 raised.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Naked Prowler on Narcotics; Truck Tailgate Stolen; Man Kicks Door, Then Kicks Woman; Man Refuses to Leave Business Restroom; Elder Assaults Elder; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for September 7 – 13. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 365 service events, resulting in 69 investigations.

Vandalism
September 7 at 7:19 a.m., a caller in the 100 block of Los Angeles called to report graffiti in an alleyway. Graffiti removal was notified. This investigation is continuing.

Fraud
September 7 at 10:22 a.m., a victim in the 200 block of S. Ivy called to report a check he placed in the mail was stolen and deposited into a different person's account. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
September 7 at 1:58 p.m., a resident in the 1300 block of S. Myrtle called to report the tailgate from his vehicle was stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
September 7 at 3:02 p.m., a victim and her husband were walking in the 200 block of W. Scenic when they were approached by two suspects asking for directions. At some point, the suspects switched out a piece of jewelry with the victim and left. The victim did not notice until later. This investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
September 7 at 3:58 p.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain regarding a suspect stolen drill. Officers arrived and detained the suspect nearby. The stolen property was recovered. The suspect was arrested, cited, and released at the scene.

Theft
September 7 at 4:04 p.m., a victim in the 700 block of Ridgeside reported that a headlight from their vehicle was stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Drug Activity – Suspect Arrested
September 8 at 1:58 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 300 block of E. Foothill when he saw a male adult on a bicycle commit a traffic code violation. He stopped the bicyclist and found that the bicyclist was in possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arrested, cited, and released at the scene.

Fight in Progress
September 8 at 6:36 p.m., officers were dispatched to a park in the 300 block of S. Myrtle regarding two female juveniles fighting. When officers arrived the involved females and other juvenile subjects fled the scene. No victims were located during the investigation. This investigation is continuing.

Injury Collision / Fire
September 8 at 7:35 p.m., a vehicle collision where the vehicle was on fire after colliding with parked cars and a tree. The burn victims were transported to the hospital for treatment. The Arcadia PD Major Accident Investigation Team responded to assist with the investigation. One of the occupant passed at the hospital.

Domestic Battery / Robbery
September 8 at 11:16 p.m., a guest of a hotel in the 700 block of W. Huntington reported a male adult subject, who she previously dated, just kicked open her hotel door. The male adult subject kicked her, stole her car keys, and left the scene. Officers arrived and were unable to locate the subject. This investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence / Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
September 9 at 10:43 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the area of Myrtle and Duarte. Upon arrival officers noticed that the driver who caused the collision displayed signs of intoxication. A DUI investigation was conducted and the investigation revealed 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
September 9 at 11:43 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 400 block of S. Myrtle regarding a subject passed out inside a parked vehicle. Upon the officers’ arrival, a subject inside the parked vehicle was contacted and determined to be intoxicated. The subject was unable to care for himself and was arrested. He was transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
September 10 at 4:08 p.m., a caller from a business in the 700 block of S. Shamrock reported a subject entered the establishment and began yelling and screaming. Officers arrived and contacted the individual. He had outstanding warrants for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Mental Evaluation
September 10 at 6:31 p.m., an employee from a coffee shop in the 800 block of W. Huntington reported a male adult was in front of their store behaving strangely. Officers arrived and contacted the male subject and found he was suicidal. He was transported to a medical facility for a mental evaluation.

Grand Theft Auto Recovery
September 10 at 6:38 p.m., a resident in the 1200 block of S. Mayflower reported a suspicious vehicle. A computer check determined that the vehicle had been reported stolen. Officers arrived and recovered the vehicle. This investigation is continuing.

Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested
September 10 at 10:58 p.m., an employee from a business in the 700 block of W. Huntington reported a female adult subject was loitering on their property and was refusing to leave when she was asked to. Officers arrived and contacted the subject. She was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia. She was arrested, cited, and released at the scene.

Prowling / Battery on an Officer – Suspect Arrested
September 11 at 5:03 a.m., a resident at an apartment building in the 1600 block of S. Primrose reported a male adult, who was not a resident, was prowling on the property and looking into her apartment window. Officers arrived and located the subject, who was completely naked and appeared to be on narcotics. The subject punched an officer in the face, subject was arrested. MFD responded and transported the subject to a hospital for treatment.

Suspicious Person
September 11 at 5:40 a.m., the reporting party reported seeing a male adult in the 400 block of E. Huntington who appeared to be rummaging through a large delivery/pickup box and loading items into a backpack. Officers were not able to locate the subject, however, they were able to determine that the box was not burglarized. This investigation is continuing.

Trespass Arrest – Suspect Arrested
September 11 at 7:30 a.m., a male adult locked himself in the bathroom of a business in the 200 block of W. Huntington and refused to leave. Officers arrived and ordered the subject to leave the business. The subject refused and was detained by officers. The business owners placed the subject under private persons arrest for trespassing. The subject was arrested, cited, and released at the scene.

Theft
September 11 at 10:44 a.m., a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain reported a theft. Officers arrived and searched the area, but the suspect had already fled. This investigation is continuing.

Theft
September 11 at 11:09 a.m., a caller reported a theft from their business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain. Officers arrived, but the suspects had already fled with the merchandise. This investigation is continuing.

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
September 11 at 12:41 p.m., a caller asked for a welfare check on a male adult who was walking into traffic in the area of Alta Vista and Walnut. Officers arrived and contacted the male subject. A computer check revealed he had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Domestic Battery
September 12 at 12:46 a.m., a victim walked into the MPD lobby to report that she was a victim of domestic violence. She stated that her live-in boyfriend battered her after a verbal altercation regarding his ex-girlfriend. Officers went to the residents, but the boyfriend was not there. This investigation is continuing.

Reckless Driving – Suspect Arrested
September 12 at 7:58 a.m., an officer observed a motorist commit several traffic violations that were a danger to the public and conducted a traffic stop. The driver was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Mental Evaluation
September 12 at 8:19 a.m., a caller reported an elderly resident assaulted another elderly resident in the 100 block of S. Myrtle. The subject was deemed a danger to others and was transported to a medical facility for a mental evaluation.

Theft – Suspect Arrested
September 12 at 11:28 a.m., a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain reported a theft. Officers arrived and located the suspect nearby. The property was returned to the business. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Structure Fire
September 12 at 11:34 a.m., a caller from the 300 block of California reported seeing flames and smoke coming from a house. Officers arrived and saw flames coming from the windows. MFD arrived and extinguished the fire. No injuries were reported.

Mail Theft
September 13 at 12:12 p.m., a victim in the 900 block of Norumbega reported her mail had been stolen the evening prior. She provided the investigating officer with suspect vehicle information. Investigation continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
September 13 at 2:27 p.m., an injury traffic collision was reported in the 200 block of S. Sunset. An investigation revealed that the driver was experiencing a medical emergency and collided into parked vehicle. The driver was transported to the hospital for treatment.

Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
September 13 at 4:49 p.m., an officer was patrolling the 200 block of W. Lime when the officer observed a vehicle in violation of a vehicle code. A computer check of the driver revealed she had outstanding warrants. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Crowd Gathers for Unveiling of Steve Baker Bear

A crowd gathered at the southeast corner of Myrtle and Foothill today for the unveiling of the Steve Baker bear, honoring former City Historian Steve Baker, who died last year. Mayor Becky Shevlin said the “irreplaceable” Baker knew more about Monrovia history “than all of us combined,” and was always ready to share his knowledge, often in the form of a humorous story. For more on Steve Baker, see SteveBakersMonrovia.com

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police Ask for Help Investigating Fiery Car Crash

 Monrovia Police Department is asking that anyone who may have witnessed the Sept. 8 accident at the corner of Duarte Road and Fifth Avenue, in which a child died in a burning car, to please contact Monrovia PD Investigation Detective Travis Ortega (626) 256-8049. Anonymous tips may be submitted through "LA Crime Stoppers" by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or visiting www.LACrimeStoppers.org.

- Brad Haugaard 

New Restaurant to Replace Old Monrovian Restaurant

According to a report in the website, WhatNowLosAngeles, the owner of the now-closed Tang Gong restaurant in Monterey Park will open a new restaurant at the site of the old Monrovian restaurant on Myrtle. No indication of the name of the new restaurant or the cuisine. Details.

- Brad Haugaard 

Dinner at Popeyes

Dinner at Popeyes, near the corner of Huntington and Magnolia. Got the three piece chicken combo with coleslaw and a drink for $11.99. Nice fast food with some different dipping sauces. I got Blackened Ranch.

- Brad Haugaard

More Arrestees Will Be Released Without Bail Starting Oct. 1

Beginning October 1, 2023, a greater number of people arrested in Monrovia -- and across LA County -- will be released without bail, due to a new set of bail schedules approved by the Superior Court of Los Angeles County for suspects arrested in non-violent felonies and misdemeanor crimes.

The LA County Police Chief's Association released this press release:

On July 18, 2023, the Superior Court of Los Angeles County approved a new set of bail schedules for suspects arrested in non-violent felonies and misdemeanor crimes. The new bail schedule, slated to take effect in LA County on October 1, 2023, will dictate one of three possible actions by law enforcement for an arrestee's release: Cite and Release (CR), Book and Release (BR) or Magistrate Review (MR). Capital offenses such as murder with special circumstances and limited felonies are not eligible for pre-arraignment, zero bail release.

The Sheriff's Department and all Police Departments in the County must comply with this protocol.

The newly approved Release Protocols will replace the traditional bail schedules. Instead of assigning money bail amount to non-violent felonies and misdemeanors, a majority of arrestees will now be released at the location of the arrest (CR) or booked in jail, and then released on their own recognizance with a citation for a future court date (BR). In some cases, suspects arrested for certain crimes which pose an increased risk to the public will be referred to an on-call magistrate, who will have discretion to determine the appropriate release terms and conditions (MR). Some examples of release conditions by a magistrate may include prohibitions against committing crimes, sending text messages to remind the arrestee to appear in court and visits with court staff.

As a result of these new release terms, law enforcement must Cite and Release or Book and Release arrestees in nearly all theft offenses, vehicle code violations, and crimes against property such as petty theft, and vandalism. Offenses involving guns, sexual battery, crimes against children/ elders and contact with minors with intent to commit a sexual offense are examples of offenses subject to Magistrate Review. Magistrates will consider the crime, and a risk assessment report to determine whether the arrestee should be released with no conditions or determine the least restrictive, non-financial conditions intended to address whether the arrestee is likely to return to court. All offenses in the MR category are designated as zero bail offenses.

As an example of this change, a person arrested for False Imprisonment under this new protocol would be eligible for BR. Under the previous bail schedule, their bail amount would be $50,000. Likewise, a person arrested for theft of an automobile is eligible for BR, while under the previous bail schedule, their bail amount would be $35,000.

This represents a significant change in protocols for all law enforcement agencies in Los Angeles County. The Los Angeles County Police Chiefs' Association (LACPCA) remains committed to the safety and security of our communities. We will continue to work within the processes set forth by the Superior Court of Los Angeles County, and as a profession, make recommendations for improvement at every opportunity.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia School Board to Consider Employee 'Discipline/Dismissal/Release'

The Monrovia School Board will meet in special closed session tomorrow, Wednesday, Sept. 13 at 4:30 p.m. to discuss, "Public Employee Discipline/Dismissal/Release." There will be an opportunity for public comment before the board goes into closed session, and the agenda says there will be a public report following the closed session. Details. This follows a Monday night meeting to evaluate school Superintendent, Ryan Smith. The board will then hold its regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Adopt Frosty the Rabbit for Free on International Rabbit Day

Frosty is so excited that he just can’t hide it- International Rabbit Day is September 23! In honor of that landmark holiday, Frosty and all other critters at Pasadena Humane can be adopted for FREE during the “Hop Into Fall” adoption event- Saturday, 9/23 from 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. No adoption appointment is necessary.

Frosty is a sweet eight-month-old bunny who is very outgoing and adventurous. He happily greets people who visit by hopping over to get pets.

Frosty has been in a home and appears to be litter box trained. He’s also a big fan of treats, so he’ll likely bond very quickly with whomever is giving him something yummy.

This adorable little guy is very handsome and soft and will give you lots of love!

The normal adoption fee for rabbits is only $5.

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

A Moment in Monrovia History: Judge John Dustin Bicknell, Cofounder of Monrovia

John Dustin Bicknell was a Los Angeles attorney and judge, who owned a considerable property in Monrovia, including on Prospect where he built a small cottage. Unlike the other founders of Monrovia, he never built a large home. He also owned property northeast of Grand Ave. After his death, his widow or his daughter Mary Cates, built a large house at 411 Prospect and his daughter Edna Baggs built a large home northeast of Grand Avenue. Presumably both were built on his original land. 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

Storytime With Park Naturalists This Saturday

Storytime with Park Naturalists, Saturday, September 16, from 10-10:45 a.m. at Lucinda Garcia Park, 502 W. Olive. For children to age 5 and will include stories, music, movement, and fun facts. Contact jtuszynski@ci.monrovia.ca.us or call  256-8274 for more information. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Child Dies in Fiery Crash on Duarte Road

A child died Friday night on Duarte Road near Fifth Avenue when a car crashed and burst into flames, according to The San Gabriel Valley Tribune. Details. 

- Brad Haugaard