Dinner at the new Fillet Sushi restaurant on the east side of Myrtle about a half block north of Olive. Got the Rainbow Crunch Roll for $15. The restaurant’s alcohol license is coming soon. Tasty. Very good quality.
Dinner at Fillet Sushi
Dinner at the new Fillet Sushi restaurant on the east side of Myrtle about a half block north of Olive. Got the Rainbow Crunch Roll for $15. The restaurant’s alcohol license is coming soon. Tasty. Very good quality.
In-N-Out To Break Ground on New Monrovia Restaurant
City Manager Dylan Feik reports that In-N-Out is set to break ground next week on a new restaurant at 560 W. Huntington Drive, the former Black Angus site. The project team recently received a demolition permit, allowing work to begin the week of Nov. 18. The single-story, 3,879-square-foot restaurant will feature indoor seating for 84, patio seating for 40, and a drive-thru accommodating up to 26 cars.
Christmas Toy Drive for Children's Hospital on Saturday, Dec 7
The Monrovia Guild of Children's Hospital Los Angeles will hold its Annual Christmas Toy Drive on Saturday, Dec 7, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Tired Iron Works, 135 E Foothill Blvd. Entertainment, vintage automobiles, a taco truck and other goodies. Entry requires donating an unwrapped toy or making a monetary contribution. Donations can also be made here. For CHLA toy giving guidelines see here.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Play Money Car Scam Foiled; Employee Embezzles $Million; Missing Man Found a Year Later; He Didn't Have a Gun, But Arrested for Delaying Officers; Etc.
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for November 7 – 13. - Brad Haugaard]During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 425 service events, resulting in 144 investigations.
Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
November 7 at 2:48 p.m., officers were dispatched to a store in the 1600 block of S. Mountain regarding a male subject who stole merchandise and fled. Officers arrived and located the subject nearby still in possession of the stolen property. He was arrested and taken into custody.
Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
November 7 at 4:33 p.m., an employee at a store in the 700 block of E. Huntington reported two subjects that fled the store with stolen merchandise. Officers arrived and located the subjects who fled in different directions after seeing the officers. One of the subjects was located nearby. She was arrested and taken into custody. This investigation is continuing.
Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
November 7 at 7:57 p.m., a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington reported that a customer was refusing to leave and arguing with security. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject. A computer search revealed the subject had a warrant for her arrest. She was arrested and taken into custody.
Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
November 8 at 10:34 a.m., a retail business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain called to report a shoplifter had just left the store with items. Officers responded and located him nearby. The property was returned to the store and the suspect was arrested for shoplifting.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
November 8 at 11:22 p.m., an officer was patrolling the area of Ivy and Colorado when he witnessed a motorist commit a vehicle code violation. The officer initiated a traffic stop and contacted the driver who displayed symptoms of intoxication. The investigation revealed the driver was intoxicated. He was arrested and taken into custody.
Attempt Grand Theft Auto
November 9 at 2:08 a.m., a resident in the 400 block of Genoa reported that as he pulled up to his residence he saw three masked teenagers running away from a vehicle parked in the street and vehicle's alarm was sounding. Officers arrived and found a vehicle with its window shattered and the steering column tampered with. The suspects were not located. The investigation is continuing.
Attempt Grand Theft Auto
November 9 at 8:22 a.m., a resident in the 500 block of S. Madison called to report that someone had attempted to steal her vehicle overnight. The rear window was shattered and the steering column tampered with. Security camera footage is being sought. This investigation is continuing.
Attempt Grand Theft Auto
November 9 at 10:18 a.m., a resident in the 1400 block of S. Magnolia called to report there was an attempt to steal his vehicle sometime after 8:00 p.m. the prior evening. The driver's window was shattered and the steering column tampered with.
Grand Theft Auto Recovery
November 9 at 10:51 a.m., an officer was conducting extra patrol at a residence in the 300 block of Terrace View after numerous calls for service there over the last few weeks. He saw a suspicious vehicle in the driveway and a computer check showed it was a stolen vehicle. An extensive investigation was conducted but no suspects were located. The vehicle was stored and the registered owner notified.
Grand Theft Auto Recovery
November 9 at 12:16 a.m., a Monrovia PD desk officer reviewed a report submitted online by a resident in the 400 block of W. Colorado. The report’s circumstances were similar to the other calls reported throughout the day. This investigation is continuing.
Attempt Grand Theft Auto
November 9 1:06 p.m., a resident in the 100 block of N. Sunset called to report that his vehicle's windows had been broken and the steering column damaged during an attempt to steal the vehicle some time overnight. This investigation is ongoing.
Weapon Offense – Suspect Arrested
November 9 at 2:06 p.m., officers were dispatched to a report of a suspicious person trespassing on a property in the 400 block of Genoa. When they located the subject they learned he was on PRCS release from prison just four days earlier. He was found to be in possession of brass knuckle. He was arrested and taken into custody.
Grand Theft Auto / Fraud – Suspects Arrested
November 9 at 2:56 p.m., officers were dispatched to a call of a vehicle recovery in the 3000 block of S. Peck. A Sheriff Deputy located the stolen vehicle in East Los Angeles yesterday and called the registered owner to come get it, but the deputy left before the owner arrived. By the time the owner got there, the vehicle was stolen again. Today, an officer on patrol had his vehicle mounted ALPR locate the vehicle at the junkyard. Officers were able to locate the subjects, a male and a female, who brought the vehicle to the junkyard. Their investigation showed that the female subject arranged with the victim to meet and sell the vehicle. At the meeting her accomplice, the male subject, took possession of the vehicle after handing over movie prop money to the victim. When the victim realized he'd been given fake money he reported the vehicle stolen. Both subjects were arrested. The female was later cited out. The male was placed on a parole hold and held for a fresh court order violation charge.
Burglary
November 9 at 8:08 p.m., a resident in the 500 block of Sombrero reported that her residence had been broken into within the last three hours. Officers arrived and saw that the home was ransacked and the suspects were gone. The victim said that jewelry was stolen. This investigation is continuing.
Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
November 10 at 3:56 p.m., an employee from a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington called to report that a male subject was drinking alcohol on the property. Officers arrived and located the subject. He had several warrants for his arrest, one being a no bail warrant. He was arrested and taken into custody.
Burglary
November 10 at 6:25 p.m., a resident in the 1100 block of Orange reported that his residence had been broken into. Officers arrived and saw that the home was ransacked and the suspects were gone. The victim said that jewelry was stolen. This investigation is continuing.
Missing Person Located
November 10 at 10:12 p.m., an officer was patrolling the area of Magnolia and Maple when he witnessed a motorist commit a vehicle code violation. The officer initiated a traffic stop and contacted the driver. It was discovered the driver was reported missing over a year ago. The driver's family was contacted and the driver was removed from the Missing Persons System.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
November 11 at 2:38 a.m., an officer was patrolling the area of California and Hurstview when he witnessed a motorist commit a vehicle code violation. The officer initiated a traffic stop and contacted the driver, who displayed symptoms of intoxication. The officer conducted an investigation and the driver was arrested for driving under the influence.
Attempt Grand Theft Auto
November 11 at 9:24 a.m., a victim called to report someone had broken into her Kia Soul on Saturday night and took approximately $180 in cash and the pink slip to the vehicle. There was also some damage around the steering column. This investigation is continuing.
Injury Traffic Collision
November 11 at 12:39 p.m., officers were dispatched to a traffic collision in the area of Olive and California. A vehicle driving west on Olive stopped at the stop sign at California, made a right turn, and failed to yield to the vehicle belonging to the City of Monrovia driving north on California causing a collision. Both vehicles were towed away, the driver of the first vehicle had a complaint of pain.
Resist / Delay Officers – Suspect Arrested
November 11 at 3:09 p.m., a caller said he saw a male subject possibly holding a revolver in the area of Foothill and Alta Vista. A description was given and officers located the subject in the area. He was given commands but refused to comply. After speaking with him for several minutes, requesting an air ship, a K-9 from Pasadena, and officers from Arcadia to block traffic, he then decided to comply. No gun was located. He was arrested for resisting and delaying officers. The subject had outstanding warrants for his arrest as well.
Injury Traffic Collision
November 11 at 3:58 p.m., officers were dispatched to a traffic collision in the area of Foothill and Shamrock. A vehicle driving east on Foothill was making a left turn onto Shamrock. A truck was driving west on Foothill and making a left turn onto Shamrock limiting the visibility of the driver in the other direction. The driver turned and was struck by the vehicle driving west on Foothill. The drivers both had complaints of pain.
Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
November 11 at 5:02 p.m., a caller stated there was a fight in progress in the area of Montana and Primrose. Officers arrived and located a male and female, but there were not physically fighting. A computer check revealed the male subject had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.
Non Injury Traffic Collision
November 11 at 5:55 p.m., officers responded to a traffic collision in the 200 block of W. Walnut. A vehicle driving through the alley turned to park and didn't see the gas main, turning into it and causing a significant gas leak. The fire department was notified and was able to shut the gas off. The gas company was notified and responded to the location to fix it.
Embezzlement
November 12 at 9:23 a.m., a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington reported a subject at the business who has worked there several years was writing checks to himself as "bonuses" often in the amounts of $20,000 and up. He believes it was going on for approximately 2 years and the loss could be upwards if not more than 1 million dollars. This investigation is continuing.
Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
November 12 at 4:07 p.m., an employee from a store in the 700 block of E. Huntington called to report there were two females inside the store concealing merchandise. Officers arrived and apparently the females were leaving, they set all the merchandise down inside the store prior to exiting. They were still detained and a computer check revealed one of the females had two warrants in the system for theft. She was arrested and taken into custody.
Driving Under the Influence / Reckless Driving – Suspect Arrested
November 13 at 1:14 a.m., while officers were on a separate call for service in the area of Chestnut and Fifth, they observed a vehicle doing donuts at a high rate of speed in the intersection of Chestnut and Fifth. A traffic stop was conducted for reckless driving and the driver exhibited objected signs and symptoms of intoxications. Field sobriety tests were conducted and he was subsequently arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. The passenger was released at the scene. The suspect was taken into custody.
Violation of Court Order – Suspect Arrested
November 13 at 12:43 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 100 block of E. Central, the victim called to report her sister had brandished a knife at her. Officers arrived and located all parties Further investigation revealed she was in violation of a protective order. She was arrested and taken into custody.
Stalking
November 13 at 3:21 p.m., a female came in to the station to report that her ex-husband has been stalking her. She said he took her phone and started contacting people in her phone. She then found a tracker in her wallet and an air tag on her vehicle. This investigation is continuing.
Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
November 13 at 3:39 p.m., a caller in the 400 block of W. Foothill reported a male subject was taking bottles out of the trash can and throwing them on the ground. Officers arrived and contacted the subject. A computer check revealed he had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.
Injury Traffic Collision
November 13 at 5:19 p.m. officers were dispatched to a traffic collision in the 500 block of W. Colorado. A vehicle driving east on Colorado failed to stop at the posted stop sign at Colorado and Mayflower. The vehicle driving south on Mayflower stopped and entered the intersection but was broadsided by the other vehicle. One driver had visible injuries and was taken to the hospital.
Vehicle Burglary
September 14 at 3:58 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of S. Madison awoke to the sound of their vehicle's alarm. She rushed outside to find the back window of her vehicle had been smashed and the door left open. She did not see anyone fleeing the scene, and nothing was missing from the vehicle. This investigation is continuing.
Monrovia Restaurant Adds Mural of a Former Customer, Dodgers Pitcher Fernando Valenzuela
Monrovia restaurant, Max's Mexican Cuisine, has honored former Dodgers pitcher Fernando Valenzuela with a mural depicting him about to pitch. Valenzuela was a frequent customer of the restaurant. Details.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Company to Begin Trading on Stock Market
Invizyne Technologies, Inc. of Monrovia will begin trading on the NASDAQ stock index on Nov. 13 using the symbol IZTC. Invizyne is “a cell-free enzyme-based biomanufacturing technology company” that is “redefining biomanufacturing by leveraging cell-free, multi-step, enzyme-based systems to efficiently transform natural or renewable resources into highly sought after biochemicals.” Details.
- Brad Haugaard
Laid Back Chewie…But Maybe No Cats
Chewie is a sweet and gentle soul with a laid-back personality. She’s a lovely companion, always happy to relax by your side or follow you around the house with her soft, smiling eyes. Chewie enjoys her rope toys and chew toys, taking treats with the utmost gentleness, and she’s friendly and relaxed with visitors, even in busy environments. She’s also comfortable around other dogs and seems to enjoy the company of her furry friends.
Chewie is well-behaved on walks, though she’ll benefit from a bit more training. She’s done well in meeting new dogs while on leash, although she prefers calm greetings and probably does best in a home without cats. Loud noises aren’t her favorite, so a quieter home would suit her well. She takes daily medication to support her mobility, and while she can’t jump up on furniture by herself, she’s perfectly content with a cozy spot on the floor (or with some doggy stairs for a gentle boost!).
Chewie will thrive with a family that understands her need for companionship, gentle play, and a steady routine. If you're looking for a calm and loving friend who’ll be your shadow and a relaxed presence in your home, Chewie is your girl!
Chewie and all other pets over five years old have their adoption fees waived throughout November in celebration of Adopt-A-Senior-Pet Month!
The normal adoption fee for dogs is $150. All dog adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.
Walk-in adoptions are available every day from 2:00 – 5:00. For those who prefer, adoption appointments are available daily from 10:30 – 1:30 and can be scheduled online. View photos of adoptable pets at pasadenahumane.org.
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.
- Brad Haugaard
San Gabriel Valley Choral Company Will Perform Two Christmas Concerts
San Gabriel Valley Choral Company will hold a Hallelujah Sing Along on Sunday, Dec. 1 at 1:30 p.m. at St. Luke's Episcopal Church. Select choruses from Handel's Messiah and from favorite holiday carols. Tickets here.
Also, SGVCC will hold its annual holiday concert, "Crystal Carols, a blend of traditional and contemporary holiday music, on Saturday, Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Luke’s. Tickets here.
- Brad Haugaard
A Moment in Monrovia History: Monrovians on a Hayride
Monrovians enjoying a hayride in about 1900. Second from left is Anna Crews (whose father owned Crews' Drugstore). Sixth from left is Eva Harvey (daughter of the Monrovia Planet Editor), Fred Tripp (feet on rear wheel). Roger Brown (who married Kathleen Bartle) at rear. Kathleen Bartle (7th from left?). Steve Baker's family bought Crews' Drugstore in 1909, which Ben F. Crews had established earlier that year. It later became Baker's Pharmacy located at 608 S. Myrtle Ave. From the Myron Hotchkiss collection. See full details here.
Teen Game Hangout at Library, Nov. 15
Teen Game Hangout at the Library Community Room. Friday, Nov. 15, 3 to 5 p.m. Teens in grades 6-12 are invited to hang out, enjoy snacks, and play Nintendo Switch games like Mario Kart and Smash Ultimate, along with a variety of board games. No registration needed. For information contact Teen Librarian Amanda at acarey@monroviaca.gov or 256-8274.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia May Get a Sliver of Arcadia
Monrovia may soon obtain a very small slice of Arcadia. The owner of the Arcadia property at 923 South 10th Ave. (at the west end of El Norte) want it in the same jurisdiction as two adjacent parcels already within Monrovia. If approved this would allow for the development of up to six dwelling units across the combined properties, although no specific construction plans have been proposed. The matter will come before the Monrovia Planning Commission at its Tuesday meeting. Details.
- Brad Haugaard
Veterans Day Ceremony Today at Library Park
There will be a Veterans Day ceremony today, Nov. 11, at 11 a.m. hosted by the Allied Veterans Council at Library Park.
- Brad Haugaard
School Board to Consider Improvement Plan for Santa Fe Computer Science Magnet School, Sending Boys Soccer Team to Tournament
At its next meeting (agenda here) the Monrovia Board of Education will consider ...
~ Approving a School Plan for Student Achievement for Santa Fe Computer Science Magnet School. The plan identifies several areas that need improvement:
- English Learners, students with disabilities, foster, homeless, and socio-economically disadvantaged students, are performing poorly in English and Mathematics.
- There is a lack of family involvement, with only 21 percent of families feeling welcomed to participate, and 17 percent feeling encouraged as active partners.
- Although the attendance rate is 93 percent, there's a need to address chronic absenteeism through stronger school-family partnerships.
- There is a need to boost academic performance across all student groups.
~ Approving an extended field trip for the Monrovia High Boys Soccer Team to participate in the 2024 Soccer Tournament at Paso Robles High School from Dec. 5 - 7. Details.
- Brad Haugaard
Tickets on Sale for Community Prayer Breakfast Nov. 22
- Brad Haugaard
Firefighters vs. Cops Charity Basketball Nov. 23
Battle of the Badges charity basketball game between Firefighters and Police Associations will be held Nov. 23 at Monrovia High gym starting at 5:30 p.m. with tacos, followed by 6:30 p.m. tip-off. Tickets are $5 for ages 13+, free for children under 12. Tickets may be purchased at Fire and Police Department lobbies starting Nov. 11.
- Brad Haugaard
Applications Being Accepted for Opening on Monrovia Library Board
Applications are being accepted for an unscheduled Library Board vacancy with a term ending June 30, 2025. The deadline to apply is November 18. Contact the City Clerk's office at 932-5599 for questions.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police Chief Alan Sanvictores Retiring After 29 Years
Monrovia Police Chief Alan Sanvictores will retire after 29 years of service. Beginning as a Reserve Police Officer in 1995, he became Chief in 2017, implementing Community Activist Policing. The City Council will recognize him during his final meeting on November 19 at 7:30 p.m. Captain Heath Harvey will become Police Chief, and John Donchig will be promoted to Police Captain, both effective December 1. Harvey brings 27 years of law enforcement experience, while Donchig, who joined in 2006, currently leads the Foothill Special Enforcement Team.
- Brad Haugaard
Pathway Home Program Reduces Homeless Encampments
Monrovia's Pathway Home program has provided short-term housing for 52 homeless individuals, also offering meals and care. The program, in partnership with LA County and Duarte, "has been a significant step towards reducing encampments by addressing the actual housing needs of our unhoused community," according to a city report Video here.
- Brad Haugaard
Huntington Oaks Shopping Center Being Purchased
Huntington Oaks Shopping Center is being purchased for a price apparently above $55.9 million. A private party has acquired a loan for that amount to purchase the property. Details.
Update: The LA Times identifies the buyer as Paragon Commercial Group, which is paying a total of $79.4 million, or $293 per square foot. Details.
- Brad Haugaard