Happy Easter, Monrovia!

"He has risen." http://goo.gl/HRqDp

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Council: Police and Fire Labor Negotiations | Re-Redevelopment? | Shaw Vacancy

At its April 2 meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/4Me5H ), the Monrovia City Council will ...

~ Have a closed-door meeting with its labor negotiator about the Monrovia Firefighters Association and Monrovia Police Officers Association. No details. http://goo.gl/5az4W

~ Consider whether to support a Senate bill in Sacramento that would sorta replace the now-defunct redevelopment. http://goo.gl/LJmJK

~ Hear a report on "Vacancy Caused by the Resignation of Councilmember Clarence Shaw." http://goo.gl/A3gRQ

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia School Board Appoints Interim Superintendent

The Monrovia Board of Education has appointed 26-year district veteran, Deborah Collins, as its interim superintendent since former Superintendent Linda Wagner has left to take over Anaheim schools. http://goo.gl/a4zd2

- Brad Haugaard

Red's Drive Thru

The little gas station at the corner of Stedman and Foothill is now Red's Drive Thru, a small convenience store with sodas, candy, coffee, and so forth. It's clean and nice. I got an ice cream bar. I hope it is able to make it.

- Brad Haugaard

Main Building at Monrovia Rail Maintenance Yard Begun

Crews working on the Gold Line maintenance yard have started work on the foundation for the main building. Here crews are building the foundation for the "blow-down pit" that will allow maintenance crews to clean under the light rail vehicles.

Source: Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension Construction Authority press release

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Big Shrimps

Lunch at Big Shrimps, just east of Myrtle on the north side of Colorado. Got the tilapia lunch special ($4.99) and an iced tea ($1.75), plus tax. Good deal and very tasty.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia-Temple City Baseball Photos

Photos from the Monrovia-Temple City baseball game: http://goo.gl/QCoKI

- Brad Haugaard

Jose De Juan Exhibit | Scoby to Play for Monrovia | Open Seats on School Board

"The Kingdom," By Jose De Juan

~ Artist Jose De Juan's exhibit "Our Shared Light," runs through May 4 at Segil Fine Art, 110 West Lime.

~ Running back Kurt Scoby enrolled at Monrovia High. Plans to play in the fall. http://goo.gl/vjtDN

~ Two open Monrovia School Board seats in November. http://goo.gl/JQMGL

- Brad Haugaard

Paragon Trucking Moves to Monrovia

Former School Board candidate Terrence Williams has moved his company, Paragon Trucking, to Monrovia. Paragon "delivers excess cargo from China to businesses throughout Southern California." http://goo.gl/dMQRQ

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Stolen Purse, Meth, and Bears Encouraged With Beanbags

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 25-27. - Brad Haugaard]

 

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 438 service events, resulting in 74 investigations.

 

Petty Theft from a Vehicle

March 27 at 3:48 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of South Mountain came to the police department to report her purse had been stolen from her vehicle.  She reported that she was walking to her parked vehicle when she saw two male Hispanics, wearing backpacks, walk away from her vehicle.  After she got into her vehicle, she realized that she left the passenger window down and her purse was gone.  Investigation continuing.

 

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested

March 27 at 3:57 p.m., an officer was conducting an area check for the petty theft suspects from the above incident, when he observed a male subject walking in the 900 block of Valley View.  As the officer approached in his police vehicle, the subject walked up a driveway.  He then walked back down the driveway, where he was contacted by the officer.  The officer checked the area where the subject was standing on the property and found a methamphetamine smoking pipe.  The subject stated he threw it on the ground when he saw the police.  The subject was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia.

 

Bear Incident

March 27 at 6:21 p.m., police responded to a residence in the 800 block of Crescent Drive on the report of a bear entering the home.  The resident's mother had cooked lunch and left it on a table with the windows open.  A bear caught the scent of the food, ripped out the doggie door and entered the home through it to get at the food.  The resident's dog alerted the man, who came downstairs to find the bear inside his home.  The resident immediately went upstairs and locked himself and his dog in his bedroom and called police.  The man looked out his window and saw a second bear in his yard.  Police officers arrived along with an animal control officer and the bears were encouraged back into the hillside with beanbags rounds.  The officers advised the resident on the safety issue of the doggie door and methods to reduce bear attractants at the home.      

 

 

Detective Bureau Case Follow-up

 

Attempt Grand Theft Auto / Identity Theft / Forgery - Suspects Charged

On February 26 at 2:35 p.m., police responded to a business in the 800 block of East Central regarding a fraud in process.  Two suspects walked into the car dealership to purchase a vehicle.  They each provided forged checks, and one provided an altered driver's license.  The salesman was suspicious and called police. Both suspects were arrested and bonded out after being booked.

 

On March 26, 2013, both suspects were arraigned in court.  The detective assigned to the follow-up investigation presented the case to the District Attorney.  The case was filed and both suspects were charged with identity theft, forgery (three counts), and attempt grand theft auto.  The suspects were remanded into custody.

Easter Weekend Services in Monrovia

In alphabetical order:

~ Calvary Chapel Monrovia (123 W. Pomona Ave., near Myrtle next to the freeway). Good Friday at 6 p.m. Easter at 7 a.m., 9 a.m., and 11 a.m.

~ Calvary Road Baptist Church (319 West Olive Ave.) Easter Sunday 10:45 a.m.

~ Fellowship Monrovia (Monrovia High Performing Arts Center) - Good Friday 7 p.m.; Easter Sunday 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.

~ First Baptist Church (Encinitas and Palm) - Easter Sunday 10:55 a.m.

~ First Presbyterian Church (Myrtle and Foothill)- Good Friday Service and Concert March 29 at 7:30 p.m.; Easter Sunday 10 a.m.

~ Immaculate Conception (726 Shamrock Ave.) - For Holy Day services call parish office at 358-1166.

~ Live Oak Vineyard Church (1307 S. Myrtle) - Good Friday service at noon. Easter morning service 10 a.m.

~ Monrovia United Methodist Church (140 E Palm Ave) - Call church at 303-2783.

~ New Beginnings Family Church (2780 Peck Rd.) - Good Friday at 6 and 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 6 p.m. and Easter Sunday services at 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and noon.

~ Restored Life Fellowship (Wild Rose Elementary School 232 Jasmine Ave) - 9:30 a.m. Easter Sunday.

~ St. Luke's Episcopal Church (Foothill and California) - Good Friday 12:10 and 7:30 p.m., Holy Saturday 12:10 p.m. and 7 p.m., Easter Sunday 10 a.m.

My apologies if I missed any. If so, let me know and I will add them right away.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Old-Time Phonograph Collector

Monrovia old-time phonograph collector, Jim Constantian, has a phonograph that cost more than a Model T when the two were new in 1926. A nice feature story about Jim is in this morning's "The Weekly Star," a supplement included in the Star-News but not on line at the moment.

- Brad Haugaard

Video: Monrovia Man Meets Bear ... In His House | Inside New Aztec Restaurant | Schools Hire Headhunter Firm

~ Video: Monrovia man meets a bear ... in his house. http://goo.gl/cSWbz

~ Pictures of the inside of the new restaurant going in at the Aztec Hotel. http://goo.gl/fi2WJ

~ School Board hires a search firm to find new superintendent. (Linda Wagner is taking over Anaheim schools). http://goo.gl/1pF7K

- Brad Haugaard

Easter Egg Hunt | E-Waste Recycling | College Fair | Children's Day | Native Plant Tour

~ Saturday, March 30, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Recreation Park, 620 S. Shamrock Ave. Easter egg hunt, toddler, teen and family activities, music, arts & crafts, wellness activities, carnival games, spring bunny, face painting, demonstrations, and Monrovia Reads book distribution. Egg hunts free! http://goo.gl/mbZAj

~ Electronic Waste Recycling Event Saturday, April 6, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Mt. Sierra College, 101 E. Huntington Dr. Also, ACTS Thrift Shop accepting donations of clothing, furniture, etc. For large item donations call 577-4477 for free pick up.

~ Mt. Sierra College Career Fair, 9 a.m. to noon, April 13. 101 E. Huntington Dr. http://goo.gl/kahg0

~ Dia de los Ninos, Children's Day, at the Library. http://goo.gl/MSnXT

~ Native Plant Garden Tour, including a home in Monrovia. http://goo.gl/6LEIu

Monrovia Over South Pas :-) | Holden Photo Contest

~ In baseball, Monrovia over South Pas 11-1.

~ On Facebook, Assemblymember Chris Holden, who represents Monrovia, writes: "I need your help with photos that reflect the unique nature of the 41st Assembly District. If you have a great shot of the mountains, or wildflowers or even an iconic building that represents your city, please send a high resolution jpg to my office at: assemblymember.Holden@assembly.ca.gov.

"My staff and I will choose 3 or 4 photos to post on our website and in return, I'll buy lunch for the winners. Take a look at my website: www.asm.ca.gov/holden and you'll see I need your help."

- Brad Haugaard

Casting Call from Monrovia Media Company

Casting call at new Monrovia company. http://goo.gl/nn5zA

- Brad Haugaard

Representative Judy Chu Picture

Congressional representative Judy Chu, who represents the north edge of Monrovia, posted this photo of herself on Facebook. She posted it without comment but I'm guessing it means she wants the Supreme Court to overturn California's Proposition 8, which defines marriage as between a man and woman.

- Brad Haugaard

Unemployment Up in Monrovia

Unemployment up to 9.6 in Monrovia in January. http://goo.gl/aoV17

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: TwoCars and Bus Collide; Robbers with PepperSpray; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 21-24. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend's highlighted issues and events.

Suspicious Vehicle / Warrants – Suspect Arrested

March 22 at 10:33 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 200 block of Madeline regarding a suspicious occupied vehicle. While officers were checking on the subjects inside the vehicle, a resident contacted one of the officers. He advised the officer that a male subject with a backpack had left very quickly at the first sight of the patrol car. Officers checked the area and found the subject walking south on Mountain, north of Foothill. The subject was found to have three no-bail warrants, two for narcotics and one for burglary. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Injury Traffic Collision / Unlicensed Driver

March 22 at 5:02 p.m., a three vehicle traffic collision occurred in the 3000 block of Peck Road. Two vehicles struck each other in the intersection. One of the vehicles continued on, striking an MTA bus. One passenger on the bus complained of pain. The drivers of the vehicles were not injured. One of the drivers was found to be unlicensed and was cited for the offense. The injured person on the bus declined medical treatment.

Petty Theft With Priors – Suspect Arrested

March 23 at 5:03 p.m., a suspect was observed leaving a business in the 500 block of West Huntington with bottles of cologne he did not pay for after he concealed them in a paper bag. He was detained by store loss prevention. Officers arrived, and the suspect was taken into custody without incident. He was determined to have a very long criminal history with numerous convictions and past prison time for theft.

Residential Burglary

March 24 at 4:27 p.m., officers responded to the 700 block of Ocean View regarding the report of a residential burglary. The point of entry was an unlocked kitchen window, and the loss was several items of jewelry taken from the master bedroom. The burglary occurred sometime between 4:00 p.m. on March 23 to 7:00 p.m. on March 24. A neighbor noticed a suspicious subject leaving the victim's driveway during the time of occurrence. The subject is described as a male white adult, very tall, wearing a white, long-sleeve t-shirt and jeans. The neighbor did not see the subject carrying anything. Investigation continuing.

Attempt Robbery

March 25 at 1:55 a.m., dispatch received a call reporting a robbery in the 200 block of Melrose. The victim was in front of his residence, smoking a cigarette, when a vehicle pulled up and the occupants asked him for directions. When the victim approached the vehicle, the occupants demanded money from him. The victim replied that he didn't have any money, and one of the suspects sprayed him in the face with pepper spray. The suspect vehicle then fled south on Melrose. The victim was treated at the scene and taken to a local hospital for an apparent allergic reaction to the pepper spray. The empty canister of pepper spray was recovered at the scene. The investigation is continuing.

Study Says AeroVironment Drones Safe to Fly at Night

Monrovia's AeroVironment, which makes small drones, and New Mexico State University's Physical Science Lab, have studied the safety of flying small drones at night in American skies and concluded that it's safe. http://goo.gl/lp6e5

- Brad Haugaard

More Filming for Monrovia?

Monrovia is hoping to make filming in town easier by entering into a contract with Film LA, a firm that "helps film companies with obtaining permit fees and other tasks," according to the latest issue of Monrovia Historic Preservation Group's newsletter, Preservation Conversation.

From the newsletter: "It is felt that such an agreement would facilitate making the process easier and less time-consuming for the film companies. Because many of the film companies in Los Angeles prefer to shoot on locations within 30 miles of the studios (which Monrovia is), the city could once again become a mecca for filming."

The report adds that Film LA plans to be at an April City Council meeting.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Library: Calling All Book Scribblers!

Monrovia Public Library is conducting a study of "marginalia." (That's a fancy word for people scribbling in the margins of their books.) If you would like to participate in the survey, click here: http://goo.gl/0u8k3

- Brad Haugaard

Opinion: Patch's Push to Modify Legal Ads Law is a Good Thing

If you have followed MonroviaNow for a long time, you may recall me expressing serious doubts about the ability of AOL's Patch chain of local-news websites - including Monrovia Patch - to survive. I still have doubts, but in reading this article ( http://goo.gl/6iheU ) I find that AOL is pushing to have an antiquated law changed, and if it succeeds I think the California Patch websites could survive and maybe even thrive. Years ago I wrote my assemblyman urging just such a change, but maybe with AOL's clout something will happen.

This antiquated law requires that legal notices (those tiny-print columns of text that you used to skip over in the back of your newspaper when you used to read a newspaper) must be printed in a newsPAPER. The logic, which was probably good in the 1800s, was that there is certain information that businesses and local governments must put in front of the eyes of the public, and so those businesses and governments must buy advertising to do that. And that, of course, is a nice source of revenue for newspapers.

But today, newspapers are declining and online news is growing, and it is increasingly reasonable that online-only publications be allowed to accept legal advertising if they can show they have adequate readership.

Obviously, this would benefit Patch and other local online-only media (maybe even MonroviaNow), but I suspect newspapers will have a conniption fit as that is probably one of the few revenue sources keeping their paper versions alive. But newspapers could still run legal ads (in paper or online), so the only real difference is that newsPAPERs wouldn't be the ONLY venue for running the ads.

Now, a related argument is this: Why require legal ads at all since a government database can make the information just as easily available to the public as if it was published in a local news outlet?

Hmm... good point. The only arguments I can think of in reply are that the government may see value in pushing the information out there where it is in people's faces, or it may see value in supporting local news media, but I gotta admit, those responses are pretty weak.

- Brad Haugaard

Power Tower Construction Above Monrovia - Good Roads, Too

What appears to be a recently-dug footing for a new power tower.

If you happen to see helicopters buzzing around in the hills above Monrovia, the reason is that Southern California Edison is putting up additional power transmission towers and lines above Monrovia as part of the Tehachapi Renewable Transmission Project. The project will bring electricity from solar and wind plants in the Tehachapi area into the LA area ( http://goo.gl/ODop3 ). The cool thing if you are a mountain biker is that Edison has graded the road from White Saddle up to, and including, Rincon Road. Silky smooth. Before it was rutted, rocky and loose.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia over San Marino :-)

In baseball, Monrovia beats San Marino 4-3. Photos here: http://goo.gl/oUHI4

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Schools: Flat Enrollment After Years of Declines?

Among other things, at its March 27, 7 p.m. meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/G90IE ), the Monrovia Board of Education will ...

~ hear a report saying: "For 2013-14 the student enrollment is projected to remain unchanged from 2012-13 at 5,951. After a decade of declining enrollment, district enrollment may have stabilized due to the graduation of the large kindergarten classes of the 1990's." But still, the district is estimating it will need a net of one fewer staff member (down one at Bradoaks and one at Clifton and up one at Monroe). http://goo.gl/mPPgm

~ approve funding for making the MHS Band and Choir Room safer in an earthquake.

~ hear a report on expenditures for maintenance, and another on expenditures for facilities.

~ consider approving a contract with Moss, Levy & Hartzheim, LLP to do the district's audits.

- Brad Haugaard

AeroVironment Drone Tracks Sea Lions | Corn Toss

~ University of Alaska uses drone from Monrovia's AeroVironment to study sea lion populations. http://goo.gl/ABTI3

~ Monrovia High's Big M Boosters will hold a corn toss fundraiser. A corn toss is "similar to horseshoes except you use wooden boxes called Corn Toss platforms and corn/bean bags instead of horseshoes and metal stakes." Details: http://goo.gl/EHBzE

- Brad Haugaard

Registered to Vote? | Who Gave to Each Monrovia Council Candidate

~ If you want to vote in the Monrovia municipal election, make sure you are registered by this Monday, March 25. Info here: http://goo.gl/934a5

~ Three lists of who gave to each of the three Monrovia City Council candidates, from Patch:

- Alexander Blackburn http://goo.gl/acV1z
- Robert Parry http://goo.gl/n9pVY
- Larry Spicer http://goo.gl/7lGIr

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Max's Mexican Cuisine

Had lunch at Max's Mexican Cuisine, which is apparently in Monrovia though right across from Sonic - I thought it was Duarte. Got carnitas taco with noodle soup from the lunch menu with ice tea. For two of us, $20.82 plus tip. Bright atmosphere, good service and really good tacos. Meat tender and nicely seasoned.

- Brad Haugaard

Details on Monrovia's Five-Year Plan

The Monrovia City Council will hold a study session on Tuesday, March 26, at 6 p.m. at City Hall to discuss how to implement its five-year plan priorities: Long-Term Fiscal Responsibility, Economic Development, Infrastructure and Facility Maintenance, Historic Preservation, Public Safety, Environmental Stewardship. Here is the 71-page document the council will be working from if you are low on reading material: http://goo.gl/z7NgT

- Brad Haugaard

Doubt About Kurt Scoby Playing Football for Monrovia

Hmmm. Some serious doubt about whether Kurt Scoby will play football for Monrovia. http://goo.gl/tfZMo

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Firefighters to Climb 1,400 Stairs | Drunk Driver Stoppers | Egg Hunt

~ At the instigation of Firefighter/paramedic Jason Norton, on April 6, nearly a dozen Monrovia Firefighters will participate in the American Lung Cancer's 2013 "Fight for Air Climb" by ascending 1,400 stairs at the 850-foot AON Center - the second tallest building in downtown Los Angeles - in full firefighter gear. You can donate here: http://goo.gl/VFdHb

~ Mothers Against Drunk Drivers has recognized Monrovia Police Officer Gerald Dehart for 25 DUI Arrests in 2012. MADD also recognized Reserve Officer Fred Hirigoyen and volunteers Jerry Ferguson and Keith Green, who received the Team Award for overall support of DUI enforcement with more than 25 assists each.

~ Annual Spring Egg Hunt and Healthy Kid's Day Event on Saturday, March 30, at 10 a.m., at Recreation Park. Registration for all egg hunts for kids ages 0-16 begins at 9:45 a.m.

Source: My Monrovia newsletter - http://goo.gl/1p3V5

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's Top Priorities

On Feb. 9, the City Council named the City of Monrovia's top priorities for the next five years:

- Long-Term Fiscal Responsibility
- Economic Development
- Infrastructure and Facility Maintenance
- Historic Preservation
- Public Safety
- Environmental Stewardship

Source: City newsletter

- Brad Haugaard

Weinermobile Comes to Monrovia

Pictures of Oscar Mayer Weinermobile making a visit to Monrovia. http://goo.gl/qJiAp

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: One Price-Switch Too Many, Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 18-20. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 480 service events, resulting in 78 investigations.

Residential Burglary

March 19 at 12:16 a.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 100 block of North Grand. The victims left for the weekend on Saturday, March 16, at 5 p.m. They returned home on March 19 around 12:00 a.m. to discover their residence had been burglarized. The home was ransacked and several items were missing, including a computer and miscellaneous jewelry. The investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary

On March 14, the Monrovia Police Department took a burglary report at a business in the 1600 block of South Mountain involving a suspect seen switching price tags. The suspect switched the price tag on a higher-priced welder, took it to the cashier, and paid a lower price for the item. He was seen the day before attempting this same crime at the Glendora store, but an alert cashier recognized the discrepancy and stopped the transaction until she could verify the price. The subject walked out of the store, indicating he would return, but did not. A flyer with a photograph of the suspect was issued by the business.

On March 19 at 1:11 p.m., the suspect went to the Monrovia store again. He was seen switching the price tag on a welder and placing a homemade barcode that indicated a lower price on the item. Officers arrived as the suspect was paying for the merchandise at the lower price, and he was detained. The officers recognized the suspect from the flyer. He was arrested and taken into custody.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Assemblymember's Bill Turns Violence Fine into a Violence Fee

Assembly Bill 139, by Assemblymember Chris Holden, who represents Monrovia, was approved today in the Assembly. It strengthens penalties abusers are required to pay to ensure that more funding is available for domestic violence shelters.

AB 139 - the first piece of legislation heard on the floor this session - provides more funds for domestic violence shelters by stipulating that those convicted of domestic violence must pay a minimum $500 fee - not a fine - before they are granted probation. This clarification is important because it would ensure the Legislature's intent to use portions of the $500 fee to generate funding for local domestic violence programs.

"Since state courts differ in their interpretations of whether the payments are actually fines or fees, counties are unable to distribute domestic violence funds accurately and that means short-changing the shelters and the women they serve," explained Assemblymember Holden. "This bill will help clear up the confusion and the revenue stream. Who knew a technicality could make such a difference?"

The bill came out of a California State Audit conducted over four years that analyzed the distribution of payments used to support domestic violence shelters. The report revealed that many counties left a significant portion of payments uncollected due to the confusion about whether the payments were classified as fees or fines.

Source: from Holden press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Candidates Interviewed | Liu Looking for Artists

~ Video: KGEM host Ralph Walker interviews the three candidates for Monrovia City Council:

- Alexander Blackburn http://goo.gl/xklPd
- Robert Parry http://goo.gl/Gpbvg
- Larry Spicer http://goo.gl/dUmIW

~ Senator Carol Liu, who represents Monrovia, is looking for artists from her district to submit artwork to be displayed in Sacramento. http://goo.gl/7Ie2r

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Schools to Hire Headhunter Firm to Get Replacement Superintendent

This Friday at 8 a.m. the Monrovia Board of Education will hold a special meeting to consider which headhunter firm to employ to get a new superintendent. (Current superintendent, Linda Wagner, is moving on to take over the Anaheim schools.) Here's the agenda: http://goo.gl/9BT8J

- Brad Haugaard

Gold Line Construction Report on Time Warner Cable

Video: Time Warner Cable Local Edition host, Brad Pomerance, interviews Habib Balian, CEO of the Gold Line Foothill Extension Construction Authority about progress on rail construction.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Charity Raises $300k for Cancer Research | Puma Drone in Action

~ Monrovia's St. Baldrick's raises more than $300,000 for childhood cancer research. http://goo.gl/LgDUS

~ The Puma drone, made by Monrovia's AeroVironment, on duty in Afghanistan. http://goo.gl/5Y3UO

- Brad Haugaard

Parenting and Teen Program

A program for parents and another for teens. Grief and loss, brain development, childhood depression, etc. March 31 in Monrovia. Details: http://goo.gl/MIjYI

- Brad Haugaard

Scoby to Play for Monrovia? Rain on Wednesday?

~ Kurt Scoby to play football for Monrovia this fall? http://goo.gl/DkGRy

~ Thirty percent chance of rain on Wednesday. http://goo.gl/sXaRv

- Brad Haugaard

La Canada Over Monrovia in Baseball :-(

Baseball: La Canada 2, Monrovia 1 http://goo.gl/MO9e6

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Nano Cafe

Lunch at Nano Cafe, at Mayflower and Duarte Road. Got an iced tea ($2.49) and the lunch special Reuben Sandwich ($8.99). I really like the small-town atmosphere of this place. Food is fine, too.

- Brad Haugaard

More Farmers Markets in Monrovia

Family Festival Productions gets price break from the city in exchange for more farmers markets. http://goo.gl/ClTn1

- Brad Haugaard

Canyon Park Storytime: Legend of Sara McGee

Canyon Park Library storytime. Hear about the Rankins family and the Legend of Sara McGee. Visit the three gravestones. March 20, 3-4 p.m. Free. http://goo.gl/YJLkX

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia High Drumline, Yogurtland, St. Pat's Day, Monrovia Today Joins Community Services

Get details here: http://goo.gl/tz7LS

~ Get a video preview of the Monrovia High Drumline competition.

~ Yogurtland fundraiser today.

~ Where to celebrate St. Patrick's Day.

~ Mentioned this before but didn't notice that the Monrovia Today publication has been combined with the Community Services brochure.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia High Baseball Favorite

Monrovia High Baseball is "overwhelming favorite." http://goo.gl/y0Fvl

- Brad Haugaard

At Council Meeting: New Monrovia City Website Coming | Storm Water Tax Report

At the upcoming March 19 7:30 p.m. City Council meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/FnAKR ) the city will ..

- see the redesigned city web site.

- hear a report on the county's latest thinking on its proposed storm-water runoff tax. http://goo.gl/36gyw

- Brad Haugaard

Pictures of Coming Del Taco

Pictures of the coming Del Taco over by Target, which, by the way, will be open 24 hours. http://goo.gl/Iw51w

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Council Candidates Forum Overview: Agreement, Guns and Lawsuits

Candidates Larry Spicer, Alexander Blackburn and Robert Parry

A few notes from the Monrovia City Council candidates forum:

- Larry Spicer emphasized his long and varied community experience, and his time as a planning commissioner and fill-in city council member.

- Alexander Blackburn spoke of how his experience as an attorney bringing contesting sides together would be valuable in city government.

- Robert Parry talked about his ability to lead (he has served in the Army), his committment to controlling the city budget, public safety, making sure the Gold Line station is a positive and not a negative, and establishing a park in the south part of town.

The candidates were mostly in agreement, except, perhaps, on two matters:

1. Would you support a parcel tax on Monrovians? (The candidates seemed to think this referred to the water-runoff tax the county had proposed.)

- Blackburn said he is not in favor of any new tax but if an expense is forced on the city by a higher government, a parcel tax might be a "reasonable conclusion."

- Spicer said it would take a lot of study as it might hurt seniors and disabled vets. He said the city would have to put it to the voters and let them decide.

- Parry said, "No," and added, "We're taxed enough."

2a. Would you support gun control in Monrovia?

- Spicer said he is for some form of gun control because he is against guns in schools.

- Blackburn said the city would have to respect the Second Amendment but would be willing to have some form of gun control if the majority wants it.

- Parry said he is "generally opposed to gun control," but would be willing to require gun owners keep their guns in gun safes in their homes.

2b.  And a followup question, Would you allow teachers to have guns in school?

- Spicer said no.

- Blackburn said his gut feeling is no, but it is hard to know without doing study, "but my gut feeling is it's a terrible idea."

- Parry didn't exactly say yes, but he said that the average police response time is six minutes and "someone can do a lot of damage in that time."

An interesting tidbit came out following a question about how the city could minimize the number of lawsuits it faces.

Spicer (who served as a fill-in council member) said City Manager Laurie Lile had emphasized that the city needs to return to getting the details right. "We have to work smarter," Spicer said. "We have to get back to basics."

Then Parry followed up by saying that a lot of the lawsuits against the city are from city employees.

- Brad Haugaard

A Monrovia Del Taco in Six to Eight Months

Monrovia Del Taco (across from Duarte Target) could be open in six to eight months. http://goo.gl/awy6V Comment: I know this is not health food and I know it's not authentic Mexican, but every once in a while I like to get those crunchy tacos. Yum! I'm looking forward to this.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Car Thief Escapes; Man Holds Suspects with Gun, Police Take Suspects and Gun; Suspect Leaves Her Phone at Crime Scene

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 11-13. - Brad Haugaard]
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 432 service events, resulting in 71 investigations.

Vehicle Pursuit / Grand Theft Auto Recovery

March 12 at 2:06 a.m., officers attempted to stop a vehicle that was reported stolen to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department on March 10, 2013, and a short vehicle pursuit ensued. The suspect abandoned the vehicle and fled in the area of Canyon and Palm. Containment was established and a yard-to-yard search was conducted, but the suspect was not located. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary

March 12 at 8:07 p.m., officers responded to the 100 block of Garfield regarding a residential burglary. The burglary occurred between 1:00 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. that day. An unknown suspect pried the backdoor open, ransacked the house and stole a loaded pistol. Investigation continuing.

Mental Evaluation

On March 13 at 10:20 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 500 block of West Foothill regarding a female juvenile trying to hurt herself. The juvenile was detained and appeared to be intoxicated. She was taken to a hospital, where she was placed on a 72 hour hold for mental evaluation.

Fight in Progress / Drunk in Public - Suspects Arrested

On March 14 at 2:31 a.m., a fight in progress was reported in the 500 block of West Foothill involving three male subjects; one subject possibly having a gun. Officers arrived and detained all three subjects. The subject with the gun stated that he heard fighting outside his residence. He thought one of the subjects was being robbed, so he armed himself and went outside. He held both subjects at gunpoint until the police arrived. The investigation revealed that the two subjects were fighting with each other and were both intoxicated. The handgun was taken for safekeeping, pending further investigation, and the two suspects were arrested for drunk in public.

Detective Bureau Case Follow-up

Suspect in Residential Burglary Arrested and Sentenced to 2 Years

November 5 at 3:55 p.m., police responded to a residence in the 300 block of Greystone. The resident came home and found a large quantity of items had been gathered by the suspects, but were left near the front door. A laptop computer and video game were taken. It appears the suspects were scared off and left the items behind.
During the burglary, the suspect also left her cell phone behind. Officers located the phone during the initial investigation and evidence collection. The detective assigned to the follow-up investigation obtained a search warrant for the phone, located the owner and then issued a want for her arrest. The suspect was arrested and charges were filed.
On March 7, 2013, the suspect was sentenced to 2 years for residential burglary - a felony and a strike.

- Brad Haugaard

Suspect Caught in Monrovia After Being On the Lam for More than 30 Years

Long-running murder parolee suspect caught in Monrovia after being missing since 1980. He's been running a drug rehab center. http://goo.gl/wUEuw

- Brad Haugaard

Catalog of Spring Activities in Monrovia

Download a new 27-page catalog of Spring activities (in PDF format) from Community Services. Stuff for youth, adults, and seniors; trips, library, parks, events. http://goo.gl/ZYUFY

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia School Board Member Alex Zucco on Assemblymember's Staff

Monrovia School Board member Alex Zucco reports on Facebook that she has a new job at the field office of Assemblymember Chris Holden, who represents Monrovia. The district office is at 600 N. Rosemead Blvd., Suite 117, in Pasadena. There will be an open house there this Saturday, March 16 from 2-5 p.m.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Elementary Students in Elementary Olympics

From 850 to 950 Monrovia elementary students will participate in the eighth annual Monrovia Elementary Olympics, a physical fitness event for fourth and fifth grade students in the Monrovia Unified School District. The event will be held March 28, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Monrovia High football and baseball fields.

This event is organized by Dana Elliott, a fifth grade teacher at Wild Rose Elementary school, all elementary school P.T.A.'s and P.E. teachers, and the school district's Network for a Healthy CA. One hundred of these students have been selected to participate in the Olympic Games, which include the long jump, soccer shot, football punt, 50-yard sprints, and many more challenging track and field events. All other students will have the opportunity to participate in a volleyball game called Breakfast Beach Ball Bash! This game, hosted by the Network for a Healthy CA, is played with giant beach balls while the students learn the importance of making healthy breakfast choices. Students will also dance with KidTribe, a physical activity program that encourages them to move using hula hoops.

The Monrovia Elementary Olympic Games were created to promote physical fitness, healthy habits, and let the elementary schools get together to celebrate health and fitness. Through this collaboration, students will learn how breakfast fuels their body as well as how they can make informed choices that support good nutrition. By providing a variety of physical activity events, students will be exposed to activities that they may be able to do at home. As several studies have shown, increased physical activity enhances heart health, improves academic performance, and is a great way to manage stress. Furthermore, it is the goal of the Monrovia Unified School District's Network for a Healthy CA, and schools, to promote wellness and reduce the prevalence of preventable diseases.

Opening Ceremonies: 9 a.m.; Breakfast Beach Ball Bash/Hula Hooping: 10 a.m.; Lunch: beginning at 11:50 a.m.: Awards Ceremony: 12:30 p.m.

Source: press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Firefighters Get Bald to Fight Children's Cancer

Tomorrow, March 14, members of the Monrovia and Arcadia fire departments, and others, will get their heads shaved to raise money to end children's cancer.

This event is being held at approximately 6:30 p.m. at Matt Denny's Ale House Restaurant, at 145 E. Huntington Drive in Arcadia and in more than 700 locations throughout 48 U.S. states and in many countries around the world.

The firefighters are working through Monrovia's St. Baldrick's Foundation ( www.stbaldricks.org ), the world's biggest volunteer-driven fundraising program for childhood cancer.

Source: press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Candidate Forum Tomorrow

Monrovia City Council candidate forum tomorrow, March 14, 7 p.m. at City Hall. Details: http://goo.gl/5USGb

- Brad Haugaard

Aztec Hotel Restaurant Closer to Opening

Work is going nicely on the new restaurant at the Aztec Hotel. Here is the new bar.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Superintendent Linda Wagner Leaving

Monrovia Schools Superintendent Linda Wagner is leaving the Monrovia School District to take a job running the Anaheim schools. She writes:

"I have been hired in Anaheim City School District, effective in April. The actual start date is being discussed. This is a wonderful opportunity for career advancement. Anaheim City is a K-6 district with nearly 20,000 students.

"I have had a great experience in Monrovia. We have a very strong staff and community, working together to do great things for kids. I am most grateful for the opportunity to have worked here."

- Brad Haugaard

Fire Engine Fund | Filming on Myrtle

~ Save the Seagrave. Foundation created to raise money for Monrovia's first fire engine. http://goo.gl/G29Vq

~ Filming on Myrtle today. http://goo.gl/20ZLV

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Too Drunk to Drive; Asleep at the Wheel; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 7-10. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend's highlighted issues and events.

Commercial Burglary

On March 8 at 4:12 a.m., officers were dispatched to an alarm activation at a business in the 500 block of South Myrtle. Upon arrival, officers found the front door had been pried open and the pry tool was left behind. The owner of the business was notified. The only loss was some display jewelry, which was of low value. Surveillance cameras captured the suspects entering and opening the display cases. The suspects were wearing hooded sweatshirts and face masks. The suspects exited out the front door and fled northbound from the store and out of view. The investigation is continuing.

False Police Report - Suspect Arrested

March 9 at 12:54 p.m., dispatch received a call reporting a grand theft auto. Officers responded and interviewed the person claiming to be the victim. The officers were suspicious of the victim's story, but could not prove he was lying, so they took the report. When the vehicle was entered into the computer system, a record showed the car had just been stored by the California Highway Patrol. Further investigation revealed the car had been abandoned off the westbound transition curve from the 57 Freeway to the 210 Freeway in Glendora. The vehicle was involved in a solo vehicle collision, totaling the car.

When confronted again with the facts the officer had gathered, the reporting party admitted he had lied. He stated he had fallen asleep at the wheel and crashed the car, then took a taxi to his friend's home in Monrovia. The suspect was arrested and charged with filing a false police report. He was released on citation to appear in court.

Public Intoxication - Suspect Arrested

On March 9 at 5:31 p.m., an officer was driving in the 1500 block of South Myrtle when he observed a man staggering to his vehicle, which was parked at a gas station. The subject got into the driver's seat. The officer approached and observed that the subject had passed out with the keys in his hand in the driver's seat. He did not start his car. He was arrested for public intoxication. He was found to be on probation for DUI; a copy of the police report will be forwarded to the court of jurisdiction and a reevaluation will also be requested.

Attempt Commercial Burglary

On March 11 at 3:39 a.m., officers responded to the 900 block of West Huntington regarding a burglary alarm. When they arrived, they found the front door had been pried open. A store employee responded and met with the officers at the scene. The employee determined that nothing had been taken. The investigation is continuing.

Possession of Methamphetamine - Suspect Arrested

On March 11 at 4:00 a.m., officers were checking the area of the 210 Freeway and Myrtle for the suspect involved in the attempt commercial burglary which occurred earlier. During the search, a suspicious person was found walking east on the 210 Freeway, near Myrtle. The person was detained and questioned, but could not be linked to the attempt burglary; however, he was found to be in possession of a small amount of methamphetamine. The suspect was arrested for the drug violation.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police Will be Looking for St. Patrick's Day Drunks

Officers from the Monrovia Police Department's DUI Enforcement Team will be deploying this St. Patrick's celebration weekend to stop and arrest alcohol and drug-impaired drivers in the Department's ongoing traffic safety campaign. DUI Saturation Patrols will deploy on March 15, 2013, between the hours of 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. in areas with high frequencies of DUI collisions and/or arrests.

"This is a 'Zero Tolerance' crackdown -- so 'Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over!'"

In California, this deadly crime led to 774 deaths in 2010 because someone failed to designate a sober driver. After falling dramatically for five straight years, figures for 2011 indicate that DUI deaths remained the same as 2010. Over the course of the past three years, DUI collisions have resulted in 33 injury crashes in Monrovia, harming 45 of our friends and neighbors.

DUI can impact the economy, in addition to the pain and suffering of those immediately affected. Conservatively, a fatality has a $1.4 million impact, an injury $70,000, and a crash that only damages property averages nearly $9,000.

"California's roadways are very much safer than they were before 2006," said OTS Director Christopher J. Murphy. "The Monrovia Police Department will be keeping the pressure on through enforcement and public awareness so that we can continue saving lives and reach the vision we all share -- Toward zero deaths, every 1 counts."

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Report drunk drivers – call 911.

Source: Monrovia Police press release

- Brad Haugaard

Filming to Close Myrtle Monday

Myrtle between Lemon and Palm closed Monday. http://goo.gl/S701M

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia School Board to Discuss Superintendent, Certify It Has Enough Money ... for Now

At its March 13 meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/2YCGP ) the Monrovia School Board will ...

~ discuss Superintendent Linda Wagner in closed session prior to the main meeting. Is she leaving?

~ certify that although it expects to have enough money for the current year and the following two fiscal years while maintaining at least a three percent reserve, however ... its reserves may drop below the required three percent in the 2015-16 fiscal year. http://goo.gl/kc8t2

- Brad Haugaard

Dogwood For Sale Again

Well, I told you a while ago that Juvo Capital was going to move in to the old Dogwood Market. But after all that renovation I guess they decided not to. It appears to be for sale again.

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Cafe LuMar

Lunch at Cafe LuMar, 136 E. Colorado, just east of Myrtle. Got the ham, cheese and peas crepe ($9.75) with a LuMar Coffee (Turkish style. For $3). Really good crepe! Coffee was good in an espresso kinda way. Nice service, too. And the chocolate banana crepe ($9) for desert is wonderful.

- Brad Haugaard

Fish, Fountain, Fling and More

Lenten fish fry, Fountain to Falls race, Spring Fling (shop in Old Town and get entered in a drawing), living with Parkinsons seminar at the Y. http://goo.gl/CYpkk

- Brad Haugaard

Tomorrow, California Avenue at the Railroad Tracks Will be Closed for Five Months

California Avenue in Monrovia will be closed at the railroad crossing, just north of Duarte Road, beginning tomorrow, for five months.

The Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension Construction Authority says crews will be constructing grade crossing improvements at California Avenue between Evergreen Avenue and Duarte Road as part of the 11.5-mile Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension light rail project.

Tomorrow, the California Avenue/Duarte Road intersection will be completely closed to traffic for one day only - from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. - while crews place traffic control equipment. Once in place, Duarte Rd will reopen to traffic, but California Ave will be closed for five months to construct the train crossing improvements.

Construction work hours for the California Ave crossing work will be 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Note: Occasional longer work hours, possible work on Sundays and night work may be necessary to complete this work as scheduled.

There will be no left turns from westbound Duarte onto southbound California Ave. Traffic will be allowed to proceed east and west on Duarte Rd through the California Ave intersection (with the exception of a one-day closure of the intersection on Saturday, March 9, 2013).

A temporary pedestrian crossing will be available for pedestrians traveling north-south on California Ave. A detour route for motorists will be in place and signage will be posted to direct motorists. Local surrounding businesses will remain open and accessible during this activity. Motorists are advised to expect delays and use alternate routes.

Source: Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension Construction Authority press release. For more information call its hotline -  (626) 324-7098.

Update: The Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension Construction Authority wants to be clear that it is not the "Metro." Fair enough. I've changed the post above to add the underlined stuff.

- Brad Haugaard

Baseball: Monrovia Wildcats vs Temple City

Photos of Wildcats vs. Temple City high school baseball. http://goo.gl/DCbQZ

- Brad Haugaard

Del Taco on the Plate for Monrovia Planning Commission

At its March 13 meeting, the Monrovia Planning Commission will consider allowing a Del Taco to be built across Huntington Drive from the Target store. (Yeah, I always thought that was Duarte, too, but guess not.) If approved, it would join a Fast5Xpress automatic car wash, which has already been approved for the site. http://goo.gl/ibwpY

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Leading in Baseball | Restore the Old Fire Engine | Rain Likely

~ Monrovia High leads the league in baseball. http://goo.gl/EC7HD

~ Monrovia fire personnel responded to 88 emergency calls last week, including a house fire that caused $100,000 in damage.

~ If you'd like to donate to restore Monrovia's 1917 Seagrave fire engine, here's how: http://goo.gl/Txenf

~ Ninty percent chance of fain tonight and Friday. http://goo.gl/anhUy

- Brad Haugaard

Gold Line Construction Along Duarte Road

The City of Monrovia reports on Facebook that, "Beginning March 9, California Avenue will be CLOSED to all traffic between Duarte Rd. and the area just north of the railroad tracks for five months, opening back up in July 2013. Crews are constructing grade crossing improvements, expanding from one track to two for the Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension. Through traffic will be permitted along Duarte Rd. across California, but traffic crossing Duarte Rd. on California will be detoured to Myrtle Ave or Mountain Ave."

- Brad Haugaard

Applications Open for Monrovia Area Partnership

Monrovia Area Partnership (MAP) is accepting applications for the 2013 Youth Leadership Academy. Enrollment is open to youth in grades 8-12, and will begin on April 13. Details: http://goo.gl/uQM4Q

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: He Loses Girl, Grabs Purse, Gets Arrested; Arrest in Grand Theft

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 4-6. - Brad Haugaard]

 

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 445 service events, resulting in 88 investigations.

 

Criminal Threats / Battery / False Imprisonment / Robbery - Suspect Arrested

March 6 at 7:40 p.m., police received a call reporting a domestic violence incident in progress at a residence in the 200 block of Mauna Loa.  A 17-year-old girl was in a dating relationship with a 20-year-old male, and when she attempted to end the relationship, he threatened to kill her mother.  A school teacher learned the suspect was at the location and went there to assist the victim.  The suspect choked the teacher.  When the girl tried to walk away, the suspect unlawfully restrained her.  The girl's mother was able to get her away from the suspect, and the suspect responded by grabbing the mother's purse from her shoulder, breaking the straps and running away with the purse.  He was detained by officers and the purse was recovered.  The suspect was arrested and taken to jail without further incident.

 

Detective Bureau Case Follow-up: Grand Theft

February 14, 2013, a grand theft occurred at a residence in the 400 block of East Olive. A woman's wallet with her ID, social security card and other cards was taken, along with some small electronics.  On March 4, a male subject was arrested and was found to be in possession of several items which were taken in the grand theft.  The West San Gabriel Valley Anti-Crime Task Force wrote a search warrant for the subject arrested and served the warrant on March 5.  The results were positive and many of the objectives of the search were met.  The investigation is continuing. 

Monrovia Playwright's World Premiere

Monrovia playwright Diane Glancy, a prof at Azusa Pacific, will have the world premier of her play, The Bird House, at the Autry's Wells Fargo Theater in Griffith Park. Thanks to Charlotte Shamadan for the info. http://goo.gl/w2zQy

- Brad Haugaard

Is Monrovia Schools Superintendent Leaving?

Is Monrovia Schools Superintendent Linda Wagner leaving?

This Friday at 9:30 a.m. the Monrovia School Board will hold a special meeting, apparently to talk about a "possible Superintendent vacancy."

There will be a closed session (common for personnel issues) that is rather cryptically labeled, "Public Employee Appointment / Employment / Assignment - Superintendent," followed by this public item: "Discussion regarding employment of a search firm for possible Superintendent vacancy."

Source: http://goo.gl/ePckr

- Brad Haugaard

City Congratulates Firefighter Ernie Moreno | Harlem Shake

~ In a Facebook post, the City of Monrovia says, "Congratulations to Monrovia Fire Fighter Ernie Moreno, a 2013 Presidential MLK Drum Major Award Recipient. The award is given each year to those who have provided extraordinary acts of service, with reliability and commitment, and who seldom receive recognition. Ernie served as the driving force behind the over 1,000 toys and $6,000 donated to the Foothill Unity Center for the 2012 Annual Spark of Love Toy Drive, and served in other communities as well to help organize donations to those less fortunate. Congrats, Ernie!"

~ Fellowship Monrovia's student ministry, YOUNG, doing the Harlem Shake. http://goo.gl/WGSJD Comment: Uh... I think I'm too old to enjoy it.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Candidate Interviews | Chu Blames Republicans | Rain?

~ Interviews of Candidates for Monrovia City Council:

- Alexander Blackburn: http://goo.gl/8SI6g

- Robert Parry (write-in): http://goo.gl/gIO79

- Larry Spicer: http://goo.gl/iEEMf

~ In a Facebook post, Judy Chu, who represents the top edge of Monrovia, blames Republicans: "Sequestration was never meant to be good policy, and Californian's will suffer as a result of the GOP's unwillingness to stop it."

~ Sixty percent chance of rain on Thursday and 70 percent Friday. http://goo.gl/k0Dpe

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Students Talk to Astronauts

Monrovia students talk to astronauts in space: http://goo.gl/n5ovQ

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's AeroVironment: Revenue 'Fell Well Short'

Monrovia's AeroVironment reports a disappointing quarter: "'Third quarter revenue of $47.1 million and earnings per share of $0.17 fell well short of our plans primarily due to delays in government procurements expected during the quarter," said Tim Conver, AeroVironment chairman and chief executive officer.'" http://goo.gl/GStLi

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Assembly Members: Holden Open House; Portantino Visiting Fellow

~ Current Assemblymember Chris Holden, who represents Monrovia, will have an open house at his new district office (600 N. Rosemead Blvd., suite 117, Pasadena) on March 16 from 2-5 p.m.

~ Former Assemblymember Anthony J. Portantino, who used to represent Monrovia, reports that he is joining the USC Unruh Institute of Politics as a visiting fellow.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovian Victim in Killing | Kim Rhodes Wins Top Sports Moment

~ Monrovian was victim in Pasadena execution-style killing. http://goo.gl/3PU8k

~ Kim Rhode's Olympic shooting identified as a top sports moment. http://goo.gl/BWAlA

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Hit Head at Skatepark, Intoxicated Victim Beaten Up, Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for Feb. 28-March 3. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend's highlighted issues and events.

Theft From a Vehicle
March 2 at 1:59 p.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 200 block of West Colorado.  The victim stated that she left her small, black Coach purse containing some cash in the glove box of her unlocked vehicle.  She believes the theft occurred sometime between 2:00 and 7:30 a.m.  The investigation is continuing.

 
Medical Assist
March 2 at 3:49 p.m., police responded to a medical assist call at a skatepark in the 800 block of East Olive.  A male juvenile fell and was conscious, but he could not move. Witnesses stated the subject was not wearing a helmet when he fell and he did not have one in his possession.  His aunt was caring for him while his parents were out of town.  Monrovia Fire Department personnel recognized the boy as a subject who had collapsed at school two days prior.  The subject said he hit his head, but there was no visible injury.  He was taken to a hospital for assessment and treatment.

Receiving Stolen Property - Suspect Arrested
March 2 at 5:03 p.m., an officer on patrol in the area of Myrtle and California observed a male adult subject riding his bike on a downtown city sidewalk.  When the officer approached the subject to cite him for the violation, the subject appeared to be placing something in the bushes. The officer questioned the subject and he stated he was in possession of a wallet that he believed was probably stolen.  The wallet was recovered and the possible victim information was obtained.  The suspect was arrested for receiving stolen property and released on citation to appear in court.

Battery
March 3 at 7:24 p.m., officers were dispatched to a park in the 700 block of East Lemon regarding a battery in progress.  According to witnesses, several male African American suspects were beating up a male Hispanic victim.  The victim suffered facial injuries and was taken to a hospital.  The victim was intoxicated and uncooperative at the time of the incident.  The victim's wallet was found in the general area, but it is unknown if he dropped it or if it was taken from him during the fight.  Three male subjects were located in the immediate area and detained.  The three subjects denied knowledge of the incident and did not have any visible injuries or torn clothing to suggest they had involvement.  The three subjects were identified and released.  The investigation is continuing.

Spousal Battery - Suspect Arrested
March 4 at 1:11 a.m., officers were dispatched to a residence in the 400 block of West Foothill regarding a domestic violence call.  The female victim said her common-law husband was intoxicated and entered the bedroom where she was laying down.  When she told him to get out, he became angry and began punching her in the leg several times.  The victim did not have visible injuries, but complained of pain to her right leg.  The suspect sustained superficial lacerations along the right side of his face, but he claimed to have sustained the injuries by falling down.  The suspect was arrested for spousal battery and taken into custody.

Monrovia Students to Talk to Astronauts

Monrovia High students will get 20-25 minutes tomorrow to talk to astronauts in the International Space Station, according to School Board member Ed Gilliland. He said only six schools in the country have been given that honor.

- Brad Haugaard

World Vision to Consolidate Monrovia Offices

World Vision, International, a Monrovia-based Christian relief agency on Chestnut, will be consolidating its operations from two buildings to one and selling or leasing the remaining building to help fund its ministry. A speaker from World Vision told the Monrovia Coordinating Council today that the organization, with 44,000 staff around the world (200 in Monrovia), opened its first office in Monrovia when it was founded by a Arcadian in the 1950s.

- Brad Haugaard

Fire at Monrovia House

Fire at Monrovia home. Damage but everybody okay. http://goo.gl/zmtIR

- Brad Haugaard

Fire Kills Man in Mobile Home Near Monrovia

Man dies in fire in unincorporated area next to Monrovia. http://goo.gl/jhl8e

- Brad Haugaard

Skateboarding in Recreation Park | $5 Million Monrovia Home for Sale

~ Video clip of skateboarding at the Monrovia skateboard area (in Recreation Park). http://goo.gl/Wjwt9

~ $5 million home for sale in Monrovia. http://goo.gl/U8pnS

- Brad Haugaard

Robotics Tournament and Science Expo at Monrovia High

Robotics Tournament, Space Station Downlink & Science Expo and Evening Star Party at Monrovia High tomorrow night 5-8 p.m. Details: http://goo.gl/0NyPu

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Jake's Roadhouse

Lunch at Jake's Roadhouse on Myrtle in Old Town. Got the Jalapeño Burger ($10.95) and a beer. Lots of jalapeños, guacamole, tasty and messy. The extra napkins were a big help. Plus, quick and pleasant service. $14.76 plus tip.

- Brad Haugaard

Democrats Endorse Mary Ann Lutz and Larry Spicer | Rockhounds

~ The organization, Foothill Community Democrats, has "overwhelmingly endorced both Mary Ann Lutz for re-election and Larry Spicer for election to the Monrovia City Council." That, according to its Facebook post.

~ Monrovia Rockhounds will present its 52th Annual Gem and Mineral Show on March 2 and 3, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Ayers Hall at the Arboretum. Details: http://goo.gl/hLIsa

- Brad Haugaard

Remodel | Women in Pain | Legend of Sara McGee

~ AW Collision Center of Monrovia renovates its building. http://goo.gl/3NRqw

~ Senator Carol Liu, who represents Monrovia, wants to designate September 2013 as Pain Awareness Month and September 13, 2013, as Women In Pain Awareness Day to draw public attention to "gender disparity in pain assessment and treatment in the United States." http://goo.gl/b74t9

~ Legend of Sara McGee. Wednesday March 20, 3-4 p.m. at Canyon Park Cabin. Learn about Monrovia's Rankins family and the Legend of Sara McGee as told by Park Ranger Hector Inzunza. Activities include a brief walk in Canyon Park after the story. For the whole family. Space is limited so sign up early. http://goo.gl/gBwVP

- Brad Haugaard