Who to Call If You Dig Up Mastodon Bones

Here's an interesting Monrovia company. Its website says Paleo Solutions is "an environmental consulting firm specializing in paleontological and archaeological resources management." I guess they help if you dig up saber-tooth tiger bones while grading a road or something. http://goo.gl/KWpdwt

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's STAAR Surgical Reports Strong Earnings

STAAR Surgical of Monrovia, which makes replacement eye lenses, today reported revenue of $18.2 million for the second quarter of 2013, up 14 percent compared to $15.9 million for the second quarter of 2012. http://goo.gl/gHXeFn

- Brad Haugaard

Will Feds Mess With Monrovia's Water? | Shooting at the Repo Man

~ Might the federal government interfere with Monrovia's supply of water from the mountains? http://goo.gl/U62uYu

~ Man arrested in Monrovia county area. Suspected of shooting at the car repo man. http://goo.gl/3kjWcj

- Brad Haugaard

Produce in the Park | Monrovia PD Looks for Robber

~ Produce in the Park this Saturday, August 3, 9-11 a.m. in Library Park at the corner of Lime and Myrtle. See what's been growing in your neighbor's gardens.

~ Monrovia Police look for armed robber who robbed Duarte store. http://goo.gl/87tunc

- Brad Haugaard

Virtual Public School Info Meeting In Monrovia

Capistrano Connections Academy, a tuition-free virtual public school chartered through the Capistrano Unified School District and available to students in grades K-12 , will host a free information session in Monrovia for families interested in learning about its online program. The session will take place on August 13 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Courtyard Monrovia - 700 W. Huntington Dr. In Monrovia. 

 

- Brad Haugaard

Dogwoods to Become Juvolicious

The old Dogwoods market on Foothill may soon have a new sign that says, "Juvolicious." The city's Design Review Committee will consider the sign at its next meeting ( http://goo.gl/JwhKOo ). According to its website, Juvolicious ( http://www.juvolicious.com/ ) is "a venture funded ecommerce company that purchases popular consumer products from manufacturers and wholesalers across the United States." It is also owned by the same folks who own Juvo Capital ( http://www.juvocapital.com/ ), whom I thought were going to move in there.

Comment: For some reason that name makes me thirsty.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's Naked Juice Co. Removing 'All Natural' Label on Its Products

In response to a lawsuit, Naked Juice Co. of Monrovia, will remove the label, "all natural," from its veggie and fruit smoothies until the term, "natural," is better defined. http://goo.gl/5uXbwz

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police Safety Tips - Kids and Hot Cars

Monrovia Police advice for National Heatstroke Prevention Day, July 31.

"Too many children die as a result of being left unattended in vehicles for any amount of time," said California Office of Traffic Safety Director Christopher J. Murphy. "These tragedies are 100 percent preventable."

A car's internal temperature can rise above 100 degrees even on cooler days and in 110 degree sun can reach 160 degrees in an hour. When the temperature is 100 degrees, even a half-hour in a vehicle can be enough heat to kill or severely injure young children. It is illegal to leave children unattended in a motor vehicle.

Tips:

- Never leave your child unattended in a hot vehicle, not even for a minute.

- Place a needed item for your next stop, such as your cell phone or purse, on the floor in front of your child's safety seat. This will help to remind you that your child is in the car when you retrieve the needed items.

- Set a reminder or alarm on your cell phone that reminds you to drop off your child at school or day care, or have a loved one call to ensure that the drop-off occurred.

- Ask day care providers to call if your child is ever late being dropped off.

- Develop a routine for exiting the car; check the backseat and lock all doors and the trunk every time.

- Always lock your car doors and do not give children access to keys or keyless entry devices.

- Teach your children that cars are never to be used as a place to play.

- If your child is missing, be sure to check all vehicles and trunks.

- If you see an unattended child in a hot vehicle, call 911 immediately.

Source: Monrovia Police Department

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Ten People To Hold Him Down; Drunk Driving; Drugs; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 25-28. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.  To see a complete listing of crimes reported, go to the City of Monrovia website and click on the crime mapping link.  Sign up to follow us on twitter for police notifications.

Residential Burglary
On July 25 at 2:17 p.m., an officer responded to the 800 block of West Duarte regarding a burglary.  The victim left his residence at 9:30 a.m. and returned at 2:00 p.m.  He entered his residence and noticed his bedrooms had been ransacked.  The suspect(s) entered through an unlocked bedroom window.  The suspect(s) took 2 laptops, a checkbook and cash.  The investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol - Suspect Arrested
On July 25 at 8:00 p.m., an officer stopped a male who was talking on his cell phone while driving in the 1500 block of South Mountain.  Upon contacting the driver, he noticed signs and symptoms of alcohol use.  Through investigation, the driver was determined to be under the influence and was arrested.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol - Suspect Arrested
On July 26 at 2:46 a.m., an officer observed a female driving at the intersection of Myrtle and Central and talking on her cell phone. The officer stopped and contacted the driver who showed symptoms of intoxication.  After an investigation, the driver was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Possession of Controlled Substance / Possession of Paraphernalia use for Unlawfully Injecting Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
On July 26 at 10:43 a.m., while on routine patrol, an officer observed a female asleep behind the wheel of a parked vehicle in the 800 block of Orange. He stopped to see if she was okay and saw a syringe on her lap.   The driver was arrested for drug charges.

Violation of Gang Injunction / Resisting and Delaying a Police Officer – Suspect Arrested
On July 26 at 6:33 p.m., dispatch received a call of a disturbance in the 100 block of West Foothill.  When officers arrived the subject fled the scene and ran into a business.  A containment was established and the subject was located inside.  When the officers asked the subject to exit the store he refused.  The subject was later determined to be in violation of Monrovia’s gang injunction.  The subject was arrested for violation of court order and resisting and delaying a police officer.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
On July 27 at 4:01 a.m., officers responded to the 200 block of South Madison regarding a disturbance.  When officers arrived they discovered a male subject who was first lying in bed and was unresponsive.  After a few minutes, the subject became uncooperative and confrontational with paramedics.  The subject was displaying symptoms of being under the influence of a controlled substance.  It took 10 emergency personnel to hold the subject down.  The wife claimed the subject came home and appeared fine and stepped outside for a few minutes and returned in a psychotic state.  He broke a bedroom window and passed out and was unresponsive.  The subject was taken to Arcadia Methodist Hospital.  Officers located a small glass vial, which contained a liquid substance which tested positive for a controlled substance.  No injuries were sustained by any emergency personnel.

Vehicle Burglary
On July 27 at 4:22 p.m., an officer responded to the 300 block of Prospect regarding a vehicle burglary. Unknown suspect(s) smashed the window of the vehicle and stole a navigation system.   The investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft – Vehicle
On July 27 at 4:23 p.m., an officer responded to the 200 block of Linwood regarding a petty theft from a vehicle.  Unknown suspect(s) entered the unlocked vehicle and took the victims paycheck, I Phone charger and registration. The investigation is continuing.

Big New Monrovia Restaurant Building

The new restaurant building on the old Acapulco site, designed for four small restaurants, looks like it will dwarf the neighboring Chili's restaurant.

 

- Brad Haugaard

Another Monrovia Bear at Work

Caught this guy trash-can fishing this morning about 10:45 on Canyon near Scenic. When I say caught, I mean figuratively, of course.

 

- Bead Haugaard

Business Seminar on Obamacare and Your Business

How will Obamacare affect you and your business? A free seminar at the Monrovia Library, August 7, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. with speaker George Papacalos, regional sales executive for Kaiser Permanente. RSVP by August 5 to Korrine Ramirez, 358-1159 or kr@monroviacc.com. Hosted lunch by Cafe Mundial.

- Brad Haugaard

Development Around Monrovia Gold Line Station

An article about development around what will be the Monrovia Gold Line station. http://goo.gl/M06ojv

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Drone Gets Permission to Fly Commercial

Monrovia's AeroVironment has received a "Restricted Category" rating for its Puma drone from the Federal Aviation Administration. The certificate permits operators to fly Puma for commercial missions, such as oil spill monitoring and ocean surveys. http://goo.gl/nxJ32M

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Daphne's

Lunch at Daphne's, Middle Eastern restaurant near Fifth on Huntington. Got a pita burger with hummus combo and an iced tea ($8.28 plus tax). Sort of fusion food. It was fine. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Pancake Fundraiser | Draw Along | Glow Party

~ Boy Scout Troop 147 Pancake Breakfast (pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, hash browns, coffee) for Monrovia's Foothill Unity Center, tomorrow, Saturday, 8 to noon. Cost is a non-perishable food item. At Knights of Columbus, 130 W. Pomona Ave., Monrovia.

~ Draw Along, for kids 5-12. At the Library, Tuesday, July 30 at noon. http://goo.gl/QTnFZr

~ Glow in the Dark Party, Thursday August 1, 7:30-9:00 p.m. at the Library. Black lights, glow sticks, glow tag, etc. For students entering 6th through 12th grade. http://goo.gl/fkmaSG

- Brad Haugaard

Disney Directors at Mt. Sierra | Construction on California to Last Until Late September | Anti-Litter Campaign

~ Directors Chris Takami and Joe Vance of Disney Mobile Games will be guest speakers at Mt. Sierra College. http://goo.gl/9PEjyp

~ Gold Line construction on California Ave, just north of Duarte Rd. is lasting a bit longer than expected, but should be done by the end of September. http://goo.gl/wQq3v5

~ The City of Monrovia is starting a program called, "Put It In The Can - A Campaign to Keep Monrovia Beautiful." The idea is to throw your trash in trash cans and pick up litter when you find it. http://goo.gl/wQq3v5

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Punching Out a Car; Night Burglary; Power Tool Robbery

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 22-24. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 480 service events, resulting in 84 investigations.
 
Commercial Burglary / Robbery – Suspect Arrested
July 22 at 3:30 p.m., a male adult entered a business in the 1600 block of South Mountain and selected a power tool, placing it into a backpack.  Loss prevention personnel observed him and followed him as he left the store without paying for the item.  The loss prevention officer identified himself and the suspect swung at him, striking him in the face.  He then attempted to flee, but was restrained by assisting loss prevention personnel; they detained him until officers arrived.  He was arrested and taken into custody without further incident.

Residential Burglary
July 22 at 6:41 p.m., a burglary was reported in the 300 block of Prospect Avenue.  The victim left for work at 5:00 a.m. and returned home at 5:00 p.m.  When she returned home, she noticed the garage door was open.  She called her husband and asked if he was home; he was not.  She went into the house through the garage and the house looked normal.  She searched her dresser and noticed her rings were gone.  Several other items were taken.  The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
July 23 at 6:49 a.m., police responded to the report of a burglary at a residence in the 1200 block of South Alta Vista.  The suspect(s) entered an open living room window.  The screen was closed, but the suspects cut and removed it to enter.  This incident occurred sometime during the night.  The residents were home asleep, but did not hear anything.  When they awoke in the morning, they discovered the burglary.  A 20-inch flat screen television and a silver watch were taken.

Wanted Parolee at Large – Suspect Arrested
July 24 at 8:01 a.m., an officer on patrol saw a bicyclist commit a vehicle code violation in the 2200 block of South Myrtle.  He contacted the subject and a computer check revealed the subject was a wanted parolee at large.  The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
July 24 at 3:21 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a motel in the 1100 block of East Huntington regarding a guest who was refusing to leave his unpaid room.  The officer and the motel owner asked the patron to leave; however, he refused.  He was arrested for trespassing and later released on citation to appear in court.

Battery / Drunk in Public – Suspect Arrested
July 25 at 2:17 a.m., police were dispatched to the 500 block of King Street regarding a male subject who was causing a disturbance.  When officers arrived, they found an intoxicated male subject.  He had punched the side of a car and then hit the driver.  He was arrested and charged with battery and being drunk in public.

Appreciation for Monrovia Police | E-Waste Recycling This Weekend

~ Monrovian impressed with city police department. http://goo.gl/L3wG97

~ Monrovia free electronic waste recycling event this Saturday, July 27 and Sunday July 28. http://goo.gl/RO7paq

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Representatives Vote to Limit NSA Funds for Spying on Americans

Monrovia's congressional representatives, Grace Napolitano and Judy Chu, both voted in favor of an amendment to the Defense Appropriations bill, which would, according to this report, "have denied the NSA the ability to use funds for broad spying on Americans." The measure failed on a 217-205 vote. http://goo.gl/oUZK1Z

- Brad Haugaard

Pastor of Monrovia's Hope Unlimited Church on TBN

Hope Unlimited Church ( http://www.thehopeuc.com/ ), at Peck Road and Longden, reports today on Facebook that its pastor will be on TBN [Trinity Broadcasting Network] tomorrow night.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police Reunites World War I Medals With Recipient's Family

While working in the Monrovia Police Department Property and Evidence Room, Property Officer Tom Carroll came across a box of unclaimed property from years past, containing, among other personal possessions, military medals from the United States Army, including a "Purple Heart" from World War I. The Purple Heart had been awarded retroactively in 1935 to Frank Q. Newton, who had been injured in 1919 while serving on the front lines, nearly 100 years ago.

The Purple Heart is the oldest military award still given to members of the United States Military and is awarded to those who have been wounded or killed while serving. Property Officer Tom Carroll, a United States Army veteran and recipient of the Purple Heart himself, immediately recognized the box that contained the medal and felt the importance of reuniting this military decoration with the family of the recipient.

Initially, he contacted the Purple Heart Foundation, the repository for information on Purple Heart recipients. Unfortunately, this attempt met with no success, as the foundation has only been in existence for just over fifty years. Tom then began searching law enforcement databases, but again, was unsuccessful. He then sought assistance from the Police Department's Technology Bureau Supervisor, Jim Emett, who began searching through public genealogical databases for information. He entered the name and army unit of Frank Q. Newton, searching his military records, and eventually was able to positively identify him, which ultimately led to identifying his living relatives.

Subsequent searches in law enforcement databases and contacting two other outside agencies finally revealed the recipient's family currently resides in Northern California. The family knew the story of their father receiving the Purple Heart, but had no idea his medals still existed, and they were amazed and grateful when they learned the medals would be returned to them. Property Officer Tom Carroll had the medals mounted in a shadow box for the family, and the medals were hand delivered to the family at the Los Angeles International Airport on July 23, 2013.

Frank Q. Newton served as a frontline Ambulance Wagoner in the European Theater during the First World War. He was severely injured from exposure to mustard gas while serving on the front lines for the United States Army. He died in 1975 in San Diego, California.

Source: Monrovia Police press release

- Brad Haugaard

Girders | Monrovia Journalist Dies | Chu: Not Enough Asians in Administration

~ Here are the girders that were transported through Monrovia, now in place as part of the 700-foot long San Gabriel River Bridge.

~ Star-News writer and Monrovia resident, Janette Lamb Williams, died unexpectedly at her home. http://goo.gl/AqSteQ Comment: I had the privilege to sit next to Janette at a party once and was impressed by her kindly good humor and wit. She was also a fine writer. I knew that whenever I read one of her articles that everybody would be treated fairly.

~ Congresswoman Judy Chu, who represents Monrovia, writes that she will be meeting with President Obama and complains that "there have not been any new high-level Asian American or Pacific Islander (AAPI) appointments to replace outgoing AAPI secretaries in his second term." She says that "the administration is missing an opportunity to fully reflect the diversity of our country in its leadership." http://goo.gl/lZzYnZ

- Brad Haugaard

AeroVironment Switchblade Drone Facing Competition

The 6-pound Switchblade drone, used by the Army and produced by Monrovia's AeroVironment, is facing competition. http://goo.gl/HxoJO

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Jumping at Moving Cars; Attack with Brick and Gun; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 18-21. - Brad Haugaard]

 

Following are the weekend's highlighted issues and events.

 

Non-Injury Traffic Collision – Vehicle vs. Pedestrian

July 18 at 7:43 p.m., a driver came to the police department lobby to report a traffic accident in the 400 block of Foothill.  The driver reported he was traveling east on Foothill in the number two lane, when an unknown male subject walking on the sidewalk jumped into the street and into the side of his vehicle.  The driver stopped to see if the subject was hurt, but the male subject ran and fled the area.  The driver came to the police department to report the accident.

 

Loitering Complaint / Probation Violation – Suspect Arrested

July 19 at 2:33 p.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 700 block of East Huntington regarding a complaint of a subject loitering.  The subject was contacted and a computer check revealed a warrant for violation of probation.  The subject was arrested for the warrant and taken into custody. 

 

Robbery – Cell Phone

July 19 at 9:58 p.m., a robbery was reported in the 100 block of West Olive.  The victim was walking with family members while texting on her cell phone.  The suspect walked up to the victim, pushed her and took her cell phone.  The suspect then fled the area.  The investigation is continuing.

 

Strong-Arm Robbery  

July 20 at 3:20 a.m., the victim of a robbery that had just occurred came to the police department lobby to report the crime.  The victim was walking at the corner of Mayflower and Duarte, when he heard someone walking up behind him.  He turned around and a suspect behind him threw a brick at him, but missed.  Two other suspects then ran across the street and all three began fighting with the victim. 

 

The victim fought with the subjects until one of them broke away from the fight and produced a small automatic handgun.  The suspect told him to put his stuff on the ground and leave.  The victim put his phone and wallet on the ground and ran.  The suspects took his belongings and fled the area.  The suspects were wearing hooded sweatshirts with the hoods pulled up.  The investigation is continuing.

 

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested

July 21 at 2:24 a.m., an officer on patrol stopped a vehicle in the area of Duarte and Fifth Avenue for a vehicle code violation.  He contacted the driver and observed symptoms of intoxication.  Through investigation, the driver was determined to be under the influence and was arrested and taken into custody. 

 

Grand Theft Auto

July 22 at 12:18 a.m., officers responded to the 500 block of East Lime Avenue on the report of a grand theft auto that had just occurred.  Officers immediately searched for the victim's vehicle, but they did not find it.  According to a witness, a black sedan was seen driving very slow in the area when the vehicle was stolen.  As the victim's vehicle was being driven away by the suspect, the black sedan followed it.  The victim's vehicle was last seen traveling south on Shamrock from Lime.  The victim said her vehicle was left unlocked and she has accounted for all of her keys.  The victim's vehicle is a brown,1996 Honda Accord.  The investigation is continuing.

Sniffing Volcanoes with Drones from Monrovia Company

Alaskan scientist using Raven drones from Monrovia's AeroVironment to sniff volcanoes. http://goo.gl/2LVxW8

- Brad Haugaard

Which College Will Scoby Sign With? | Unemployment Rates for Monrovia and the State

~ Speculation about what college Monrovia running back Kurt Scoby will choose. Arizona State? http://goo.gl/93bVQ

~ Unemployment dips in California, but is up a bit in Monrovia (Patch: http://goo.gl/ZRYkI ). Comment: What bugs me about news reports I've seen on employment numbers (here's a Star-News report, too: http://goo.gl/TE7K9 ) is that they don't address the main criticism: the claim that employers are switching to part-timers to avoid Obamacare mandates. For example, if you fire one full-timer and hire two part-timers, you are "adding jobs," but I don't think that is exactly good news. I hope the criticism is wrong, but I'd like to hear it addressed. Are more hours being worked or not?

- Brad Haugaard

School Board: Labor Union Agreements, Budget

At its July 24 meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/te7hl ), the Monrovia School Board will decide whether to approve agreements with the Monrovia Teachers Association (agreement here: http://goo.gl/n97Pj ) and the California School Employees Association (agreement here: http://goo.gl/uPSVj ).

Also, the board will hear a report on the district budget prepared by Director of Fiscal Services David Conway, who has some kind words for the state: "This is the first state budget in nearly a decade that is truly balanced, without using accounting gimmicks, funding shifts or increased deferrals of state apportionments." http://goo.gl/kWz1V

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Rigo's Mexican Food

Lunch at Rigo's Mexican Food, at the corner of Foothill and Mayflower. Got the Caldo de Mariscos ($10.95) and iced tea ($1.50). It is a seafood and veggie soup. Came with tortillas and, of course, chips. Very nice!

 

- Brad Haugaard

Bright New Paint Job for Mini Mall

The mini mall at Mayflower and Foothill has a new paint job. You are unlikely to miss it. 

 

- Brad Haugaard

Construction on Gold Line Maintenance Yard | Music Man

~ Work on the Monrovia Gold Line maintenance yard proceeds.

~ Professional production of The Music Man, tonight at Monrovia High. Get tickets here: http://goo.gl/kHory

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Water is Fine | Jazz Cats | E Waste | Cancer Research | Art Walk

~ Monrovia reports its water quality "comes through with flying colors." Report here: http://goo.gl/j1EbR

~ This Sunday, July 21, 7 p.m. at the Library Bandshell: "Gem City Jazz Cats."

~ E Waste Recycling at Monrovia Park N Ride (corner of S. Myrtle and W. Pomona Ave.) Saturday and Sunday, July 27-28, 9-3 p.m.

~ Monrovia's bigShrimps restaurant is helping Karly Adair raise money for Leukemia and Lymphoma research. You can help, too. http://goo.gl/x0bVB

~ Summer Art Walk along Myrtle in Old Town Saturday, July 27, 7-10 p.m. Art for sale, galleries open, art demonstrations, live music.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovian Nominated for Emmy Award

According to the East Lime Avenue Facebook page, Monrovian Mike Roth has received an Emmy nomination for his cartoon, The Regular Show. "This is his fourth nomination, one of which resulted in a win last year!" Here's Wikipedia on The Regular Show: http://goo.gl/BXX74

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Says: Watch Out for Giant Beams!

Commuters and residents are advised that 130-foot concrete beams for the Metro Gold Line Extension will be transported through the City of Monrovia between Friday, July 19 and Tuesday, July 23.

The beams will be used for the construction of the San Gabriel River Bridge. Most of the 21 beams will be transported during off peak hours between 4 a.m. and 5:30 a.m. starting on Friday and ending on Tuesday, and are not expected to cause significant impact to residents and businesses. However, three beams will be transported through Monrovia between the hours of noon to 2 p.m. on Friday.

"Based on the alternatives evaluated by Public Works, Gold Line and their contractors, this route and delivery times will result in the least impact to our community," City Manager Laurie Lile said.

All trucks carrying the oversized loads will exit Westbound 210 at Myrtle onto West Central Avenue, on Central to Mayflower Avenue, turning left to Duarte Road and traveling on Duarte Road into the City of Duarte.

Drivers on the road during this time are asked to be mindful of pilot cars and traffic controls in the area.

Source: City of Monrovia press release

- Brad Haugaard

Burglars Hitting Cars in North Monrovia | Big Crane

~ Burglars targeting cars in north end of Monrovia. http://goo.gl/jbUQW

~ Big crane being used to upgrade power lines at north end of Encinitas. http://goo.gl/egBB7

- Brad Haugaard

Music at the Aztec

The San Gabriel Valley Choral Company invites the choral community of Southern California to join in singing a preview of its upcoming season. With selections by Mozart, Ramirez, Gibbs, Lauridsen, Orban and more, this will be a supernatural afternoon of music from all over the globe, presented in the stunning ambiance of the historic Aztec Hotel in Monrovia, where the SGVCC will perform in October the first concert of its 2013-2014 season. Included is an afternoon workshop on Saturday, August 10, where Artistic Director Zanaida Robles will lead the singers on an exciting tour of several selections of the season’s repertoire, and an optional Sunday morning (August 11) performance of a spiritual at a Monrovia church service. There will also be an optional group dinner Saturday evening. Online registration of $35 is being accepted at www.sgvccworkshop.eventbrite.com. For more information, please contact choralcompany@gmail.com or 626-579-2433.

The Saturday, August 10 workshop will be held from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. and will include the following repertoire: Mozart’s Requiem; “Kyrie” from Misa Criolla by Ramirez; “Blow Blow Thou Winter Wind” by Rutter; the spirituals “Every Time I Feel the Spirit” by Dawson and “Great God Almighty” by Gibbs; and Gilbert & Sullivan’s Pirates of Penzance. The optional Sunday morning session will be from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Monrovia. Registration includes score rental, refreshments, and two free tickets to any 2013-2014 season concert. The registration deadline is July 31. Whether you’re looking for a choir to sing in or you are just seeking an afternoon of making great music, the SGVCC welcomes you to its workshop.

Artistic Director Zanaida Robles is on the faculty of Los Angeles County High School for the Arts (LACHSA) while pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in choral music at the University of Southern California (USC). As a DMA Teaching Assistant at USC, she directs the USC Thornton University Chorus. Ms. Robles also directs Discovery Camerata and served for three years as director of the MusicUNTOLD Chorale. She has prepared choirs for performances with such artists as Josh Groban, Kristin Chenoweth, Audra McDonald, and Wayne Brady.

Founded in 1995 by Dr. Thomas M. Miyake of California State University, Los Angeles, the SGVCC is a non-profit choir based in Monrovia, CA. The group’s repertoire has included music from the Renaissance period to recent works of the 21st century. Along with more traditional selections, music performed has featured avant-garde, jazz, gospel, Broadway musical revues, and staged productions. More information about the chorale and the concert season can be found at www.choralcompany.org.

Source: press release

- Brad Haugaard 

Outside Dining Approved for New Monrovia Hot Dog Joint

Monrovia's Design Review Committee has given the okay for outside dining to S'Links, a gourmet hot dog joint that will be opening soon at 630 South Myrtle. Here are some pictures (if you have a Facebook account) of the work going on in the building to get ready for the opening: http://goo.gl/tCvuc

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Mailbox Theft, Bank Fraud, Cars and More

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 15–17. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 475 service events, resulting in 82 investigations.

Attempt Mail Theft

July 15 at 1:58 p.m., a resident in the 500 block of Sombrero reported that a male White subject in a silver Honda Passport, or similar vehicle, drove on the wrong side of the street to his mailbox and attempted to open it. Due to a similar incident, the victim had replaced their traditional mailbox with a security mailbox and the suspect was not able to open the mailbox. The suspect realized he had been seen and fled the area. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto

July 16 at 1:48 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 600 block of West Duarte Road. The vehicle was actually taken a week earlier, but the victim waited to report it because she thought it might be a family member who took the car and they would return it. When the family member refused to return the car, the victim reported it as stolen. The vehicle taken was a 2004 Volkswagen Beetle. The LoJack system on the vehicle was activated and El Monte Police Department located the vehicle. A short time later a possible suspect, the victim's brother, came forward and admitted he had taken the vehicle. El Monte Police Department arrested him.

Vehicle Burglary

July 16 at 2:30 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from a business parking lot in the 1600 block of South Mountain. The victim is an employee of the business and the theft occurred the previous day about 5:30 p.m. The loss was an iPod, black Ray Ban glasses and a Bank of America checkbook. That day, the victim saw a silver Acura SUV with two suspects who had jumped into the Acura and left quickly. The vehicle entered the 210 Freeway. The victim followed the vehicle on the freeway, but lost sight of it. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto – Motorcycle

July 16 at 2:57 p.m., a black, 2009, Kawasaki Ninja motorcycle that had been locked in a parking lot in the 100 block of West Huntington Drive was taken by unknown suspect(s). The theft occurred between 6:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. that day. The investigation is continuing.

Fraud

July 16 at 4:08 p.m., a male Hispanic suspect entered a bank in the 100 block of West Foothill and attempted to withdraw cash from an account that had just been opened over the Internet. The funds in the account had been fraudulently deposited from another recently opened account. The suspect provided a fraudulent California identification card. The bank became suspicious and called the police.

The suspect was on the phone with someone during the delay at the teller window. He realized the police had been called and he then fled the location. The suspect had committed the same crime a week earlier and had received $800 in cash. Bank staff advised that this is a popular scam that has been occurring in Los Angeles County. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto

July 18 at 1:16 a.m., police responded to the report of a stolen vehicle from the 400 block of North Encinitas. A 1997 Honda was taken from the front of the residence. The investigation is continuing.

Detective Bureau Case Follow-up

Assault with a Deadly Weapon / Injury Hit and Run Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Charged

On July 6, the suspect driver in this case was involved in three incidents over a short period of time in three different locations, one in Monrovia. In the Monrovia incident, the suspect drove his vehicle around a bicyclist on Huntington and Mountain before intentionally striking him. The suspect was later arrested in Azusa. The California Highway Patrol handled two of the three incidents and the case was filed jointly at Pasadena Superior Court. The charges filed were three counts of assault with a deadly weapon, other than firearm; two counts of injury hit and run; and two counts of driving under the influence, resulting in injury. The suspects bail was set at $320,000.

Felony Evading / Hit & Run Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence / Gang Injunction Violation – Suspect Charged

On June 4, a driver failed to yield and evaded an officer attempting to stop him. The suspect made his way into the City of Duarte and drove into a cul-de-sac, where he exited his moving vehicle, injuring his foot. The suspect was taken to a hospital. He was determined to be under the influence of alcohol and drugs. The case was filed in Pasadena Superior Court and the suspect was charged with felony evading, misdemeanor hit and run, driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, and violation of the City of Monrovia's gang injunction.

Suspect Arrested and Charged for Thefts From Vehicles

On July 13, a resident in the 1000 block of Norumbega saw a suspect in her vehicle. The suspect, realizing he was seen, exited the victim's vehicle with her purse in hand. The suspect ran from officers and he was not located. A few hours later, a citizen reported a subject jumping over the wall adjacent to the wash into a backyard in the 200 block of Madeline. Officers responded to the house and spoke to a number of subjects.

Further investigation led to the issuing of a warrant for one of the subjects at the house on Madeline; he was located and arrested. He admitted to committing a number of thefts from vehicles. The case was filed in Pasadena Superior Court and the charges filed are one count of receiving stolen property and four counts of petty theft. Detectives were able to connect the suspect to five other theft cases. They were able to recover some of the property stolen and return it to their owners.

Monrovia Assemblymember: Boycott Florida

Press release from Monrovia's Assemblymember:

Assemblymember Chris Holden (D-Pasadena) - with the backing of the California Legislative Black Caucus - said he would introduce a resolution calling for a repeal of Florida's "stand-your-ground" law and urging a boycott of Florida in the wake of the not guilty verdict in the shooting of Trayvon Martin.

"When I heard the verdict last weekend, I was disappointed and saddened. Another young black child is dead and nobody is being held accountable," said Assemblymember Holden. "It is a true nightmare scenario for every black parent in America, and a sad commentary on racial injustice in this country.

While sitting in a downtown Los Angeles courthouse waiting to be called for jury duty earlier this week, I thought 'What do we do now'? I urge the Department of Justice to investigate civil-rights charges against Zimmerman and it is my sincere hope that the tragic death of Trayvon Martin compels legislators in Florida and other states to put an end to stand-your-ground laws. I keep asking myself - didn't Trayvon Martin have a right to also stand his ground? What were Trayvon Martin's rights?

Until then, I plan to plan to introduce a Resolution on behalf of the California Legislative Black Caucus urging a boycott of Florida, and encouraging all organizations, businesses, and families who would normally do business with or travel to Florida to consider patronizing other states; it's just not safe to travel in Florida until the law is changed.

The death of Trayvon Martin is a tragedy that will reverberate across the country. My heart is heavy, but I continue to believe that a peaceful, lawful solution is the only answer. By boycotting Florida tourism, conventions, and conferences we send a clear message that the death of an unarmed black teenager cannot be tolerated."

Source: Holden press release

- Brad Haugaard

AeroVironment's Stock Jumps Way Up

At this writing, stock in Monrovia's AeroVironment has jumped 13.8 percent ( http://goo.gl/HBe8N ) on news that the investment firm, Engaged Capital, owns a 5.1 percent chunk of the company. http://goo.gl/0cDtm

- Brad Haugaard

Your Car Lights Are On - Thanks Monrovia PD!

Getting a call at 1:45 in the morning from the police is usually the last thing you want to happen, but it happened to us last night, and I'm glad it did. The Monrovia Police called around that time to tell us that a car in our driveway had the inside light on, thereby saving us from a dead battery this morning.

Thanks Monrovia Police Department! It is not for nothing that Monrovia is sometimes compared to Mayberry. In a good way, I mean ... like Andy, not Barney.

 

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Reads Little Library | Singing

~ Fire Department volunteers installed the first of Monrovia Reads' Little Libraries outside the residence 149 E. Fig Avenue, a block north of the freeway and a bit east of Myrtle.

~ If you have a singing voice, Monrovia's San Gabriel Valley Choral Company is having auditions at First Presbyterian Church August 18 -September 24. Details: http://goo.gl/V60Je

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Pastor on Zimmerman/Martin Case

On Twitter, Pastor Albert Tate of Fellowship Monrovia, writes: "What if Zimmermans n Martins went 2 the same church? The Gospel must b lived out n Kingdm Contxt We ned MultiEthnic Gospel Centerd Churches"

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: More Thefts from Vehicles; Using Children as Shields; Gang Shooting? Alcohol Incidents

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 11–14. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend's highlighted issues and events.

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested

July 11 at 9:39 a.m., while on routine patrol, officers observed a subject loitering in the 300 block of West Huntington. A no-trespassing order had been signed due to this subject repeatedly loitering at the location. The suspect was arrested for trespassing.

Petty Theft – Suspect Arrested

July 11 at 11:02 a.m., a female suspect entered a business in the 900 block of West Foothill and took three bottles of liquor and left the store without paying. The business called the police, and the suspect was located and arrested.

Thefts From Unlocked Vehicles / Vehicle Burglaries – One Suspect Arrested

On July 12, police received numerous reports of thefts from unlocked vehicles and two vehicle burglary reports. Police are continuing to see a sudden increase in thefts from vehicles and vehicle burglaries throughout the City. In most of the incidents, the vehicles have been left unlocked. Suspect(s) are entering the vehicles during the late evening and morning hours and taking any items of value in the vehicles. It is unknown if the thefts are related.
On July 13, a suspicious subject was seen jumping over fences and running through backyards shortly after an in-progress theft from a vehicle was reported. Police responded and detained the subject. The investigation led to the recovery of some stolen property and the suspect was arrested. The investigation is continuing.

Theft From a Vehicle

July 12 at 10:48 p.m., officers responded to a restaurant parking lot in the 500 block of West Huntington regarding a theft from a vehicle. The victims parked their car at 9:45 p.m. and went in to eat. When they came out at 10:40 p.m., they found their vehicle had been ransacked. Their Bluetooth device and cell phone had been taken. The vehicle was left unlocked. Investigation continuing.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested

July 13 at 2:10 a.m., an officer stopped a female subject who was driving in the 200 block of East Huntington at a high rate of speed. Through investigation, she was determined to be intoxicated and she was arrested for driving under the influence.

Drunk in Public

July 13 at 4:00 a.m., an officer located a female passed out in her vehicle parked in the 100 block of North Highland. She was unresponsive in the passenger seat. Paramedics were called and she was taken to a nearby hospital.

Child Endangerment / Human Shielding – Suspect Arrested

July 13 at 5:15 a.m., officers responded to the report of a female subject in the 100 block of Norumbega screaming for help. When they arrived, they heard what sounded like a person being hit and a male and female yelling at each other. They made contact with the female at the front door. She said she had not been hit or injured and she was yelling at her boyfriend, who was in his bedroom with their two children, a three and four year old. She said he had no weapons. The house was in disarray with feces on the walls, floors and on the children's bed.

The male subject refused to open his locked bedroom door and was yelling profanities at the officers to leave. The officers entered the bedroom to check on the welfare of the children and the male subject, since a domestic fight had just occurred. Upon entry, the intoxicated male grabbed the two children and used them as a shield to avoid being arrested. The children were secured and the subject was arrested without injury. The Department of Children and Family Services was notified and will be checking on the condition of the home.

Vehicle Burglary in Progress – Suspect Arrested

July 13 at 6:27 a.m., a female subject returned to her car and found a male subject sitting inside it. The suspect fled and she contacted the police. An area search was conducted and the suspect was spotted in the area. He fled from police and an extensive search was conducted, but the suspect was not found.

At 9:10 a.m., a resident reported seeing two juveniles jumping fences in the 400 block of Meadow Lane. One of the juveniles matched the description of the burglary suspect that ran from police earlier that morning. An area search was conducted and the two juveniles were located and detained, along with two other subjects that were with them.

The subject eventually admitted that he was, in fact, the person who ran from police earlier. He showed the officers where he hid the stolen merchandise, which was under a cactus plant in a ravine. Two additional victims surfaced later in the morning. The suspect had entered two other unlocked vehicles, and in both incidents had taken iPods that were left in the vehicles.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested

July 14 at 2:18 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for vehicle code violations. The driver showed symptoms of intoxication. After an investigation, the driver was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon

On Sunday, July 14, 2013, at approximately 3:30 a.m. in the morning, a shooting victim arrived at the Arcadia Methodist Hospital. Hospital staff contacted the Monrovia Police Department. An officer arrived and handled the investigation.

The victim told the officer that he was driving in the area of Mountain and Royal Oaks when a subject pulled up in a vehicle next to him, asked him "where are you from" then shot at him, striking him in the shoulder. He drove to a nearby friend's house, and the friend drove him to the emergency room. Police personnel arrived in the area and located evidence that confirmed the shooting.

The suspect is described as a light-skinned male black in his mid-to-late 20's with short black hair, driving an older-model blue Lexus or Toyota, with aftermarket halogen headlamps.

The victim had a non-life-threatening wound and was released within hours of the incident. The victim is not a gang member and is not affiliated with any gang. The investigation will be assigned to the Detective Bureau and is currently ongoing.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Monrovia Police Department Detective Bureau.

Residential Burglary

July 14 at 6:51 p.m., an officer responded to the 200 block of North Canyon regarding a burglary. The victim came home after being away for the weekend and discovered someone had broken into their home. The investigation is continuing.

Resisting and Delaying a Peace Officer / Drunk in Public – One Suspect Arrested

July 14 at 11:07 p.m., an officer was in the area of Shamrock and Monrovista when he observed a vehicle code violation and attempted a traffic stop on the vehicle. The vehicle pulled over and the driver and two passengers immediately fled on foot. The officer detained two additional passengers in the vehicle, while responding officers searched for the three outstanding suspects. The Foothill Air Support Team helicopter responded to help in the search. The subjects were not found.

The officer was able to determine the identity of the driver and he will be charged with resisting and delaying a peace officer. One of the detained occupants was intoxicated and was arrested for public intoxication. The vehicle's registration was expired for over one year and it was stored. The investigation is continuing.

Former Assemblymember Representing Monrovia Launches Talk Show

"The Question Is," a current events program with Anthony Portantino, who formerly represented Monrovia in the state Assembly, premiered this month on the Charter Communications' California Channel 101.

Two shows have been completed. The first dealt with HIV and AIDS and the second will be a discussion of AB 109, the controversial prison realignment plan implemented for California. Was it good public policy? Is it working? And how is the system dealing with the reentry of so many former inmates?

"Before I go back into politics," Portantino said, "I want to share as much information on hot topics as I can. ... 'The Question Is' will endeavor to ask and answer questions about issues that the public should hear about and that no one else is digging into. I'm not shy and the questions will be tough on policy and opinion makers on The Question Is."

The show will air on California Chanel 101 Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 7:30 pm.

Here is the first show on YouTube: http://goo.gl/JTxd9

Source: Portantino press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's State Senator Liu Announces Money for Energy Improvements at Local Schools

Senator Carol Liu (who represents Monrovia) announced that roughly $47 million is being made available by the state to fund energy efficiency and clean energy projects for schools in the 25th Senate District, which includes Monrovia.

Also, nearly $50 million will be provided to fund energy projects at California's 112 community colleges. These projects provide a triple benefit by reducing energy bills, improving school conditions and providing jobs to help employ the 400,000 plus unemployed construction workers in the state.

As a main recipient of funds from the Proposition 39, public schools will benefit from long-term energy savings. Clean energy projects will help reduce energy and utility bills due to inefficient lighting, heating, insulation, ventilation, and air conditioning.

Each school district will be provided a funding allotment based on the average daily attendance and weighted for poverty.

Source: Liu press release

- Brad Haugaard

Is Sam's Kabob Getting a New Owner?

Sam's Mediterranean Kabob Room on Myrtle, recently featured on Kitchen Nightmares, may be changing hands. http://goo.gl/NaSta

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia TV Host: Zimmerman's Acquittal 'Heart-Wrenching'

Monrovia KGEM cable-television host, Ralph Walker, said it is "heart-wrenching" that Floridian George Zimmerman was acquitted in the death of Trayvon Martin. He compared the case to one in 1955 in which a black 14-year old was killed and two white suspects were found not guilty by a white jury. http://goo.gl/IOhSy

- Brad Haugaard

Electronic Waste Roundup in Monrovia

If you can prove you are a California resident, you can get rid of old electronics (but not batteries or light bulbs) Saturday and Sunday, July 27-28 at the corner of Myrtle and Pomona (a block south of the freeway). Details: http://goo.gl/shmBy

- Brad Haugaard

Marilyn Monrovia for President! | McFarland Pleads No Contest | Salsa Sunday

~ Marilyn Monrovia is running for the presidency of SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists). Just thought you'd want to know. http://goo.gl/gE9nY

~ Boot camp leader, Kelvin Bernard McFarland, of Monrovia, has pleaded no contest in molestation, kidnapping cases. http://goo.gl/nQ4PT

~ "Salsa Steel," Calypso music, tomorrow, Sunday, from 7-8:30 p.m. at Library Park band shell. http://goo.gl/OpLDU

- Brad Haugaard

World Vision Staff Members Killed | Shop for Unity Center

~ Two staff members of Monrovia-based World Vision were killed in South Darfur. http://goo.gl/m5RtT

~ You can support Monrovia's Foothill Unity Center by shopping at Acts Thrift Store in Pasadena for its third anniversary tomorrow, Saturday 9 to 6. The Center writes on Facebook that there will be live music by Rich Kasten Band and International Superstars of Rock, Pie N' Burger Food Truck, raffle drawings and more. ACTS gives Unity Center store vouchers for our clients in exchange for items our friends donate on behalf of the Center. Acts is at 1382 Locust, just west of Hill and north of Walnut. And here's a coupon for the store: http://goo.gl/RxHWD

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Troy Donut and Burger

Lunch this week at Troy Donut and Burger on Myrtle just south of Duarte Rd. Got the Pastrami Sandwich Combo for $6.89, plus tax. It was fine.

- Brad Haugaard

Framing Goes Up for Monrovia Restaurant Building | Obamacare and Your Business | Spying on Sheep

~ Framing goes up for the replacement restaurant building where Acapulco used to be.

~ How Obamacare will affect your business, a seminar at the Libary, August 7, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Speaker, George N. Papacalos, Regional Sales Executive for Kaiser Permanente. http://goo.gl/gXfda

~ Drones made by Monrovia's AeroVironment to spy on big horn sheep in Nevada. http://goo.gl/aKeRM

- Brad Haugaard

New Mediterranean Restaurant Coming to Myrtle | Blood Drive

~ The Monrovia Planning Commission has approved a conditional use permit for a new restaurant, a Mediterranean restaurant called Meridian at 343 S. Myrtle, to serve beer and wine. The restaurant will also serve kabobs, fattoush, hummus, gyros and other stuff. http://goo.gl/eZXaZ

~ There will be a blood drive sponsored by Family Festival Productions and City of Hope. A bloodmobile will be parked at the corner of Colorado and Myrtle on Friday, July 26, 12:30 to 6:30 p.m.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Cars - Goodie Boxes for Thieves, Busted for Breakers,Grand Theft of Sister's Car

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 8-10. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 571 service events, resulting in 82 investigations.

Theft From Vehicles

July 9, four thefts from vehicles were reported throughout the day to police. The thefts occurred overnight and were not discovered by the victims until the morning hours. The thefts occurred in the 600 block of West Foothill, 700 block of Oakglade, 900 block of West Hillcrest and 800 block of Ridgeside. In three of the incidents, the vehicles were left unlocked and items left in the vehicles were taken. The investigation is continuing.

Family Dispute / Grand Theft Auto – Suspect Arrested

July 9 at 10:52 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 1100 block of East Royal Oaks regarding a family dispute at a residence. The suspect was angry and he was yelling at his family members. He asked family members to give him a gun. He took his sister's purse from her bedroom, which had her car keys inside, and then took her car and drove to a convenience store in Duarte to meet his fiancé to talk.

Officers went to the location and found the suspect with three other male subjects, who were friends of his fiancé. The subjects appeared to be in fighting stance; all four subjects were detained. The three subjects are witnesses to a criminal threats incident involving the suspect that is being investigated by the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department. The suspect was arrested for grand theft auto and the victim desires prosecution.

Commercial Burglary – Suspects Arrested

June 10 at 5:00 p.m., two male subjects entered a business in 1600 block of South Mountain, took over 600 dollars worth of electrical breakers and then ran out of the store. They were apprehended by the store's loss prevention and the police were called. The subjects had no means on their person to pay for the items. They were arrested and charged with burglary.

Schamadan Slams Monrovia Board of Education

As part of her column in The Weekly Star newspaper (supplement to the Star-News), Monrovia columnist Charlotte Schamadan slammed the Monrovia Board of Education. From the tone of her column, it appeared she would have preferred the board to select Dr. Debby Collins as the next superintendent of schools. Collins had served the district for 27 years and was the interim supervisor. Shamadan said the board did not express a word of thanks. She writes, "Even the newly hired superintendent briefly expressed her thanks to Debby, but the board members sat silent on the subject."

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Council: Helping Old Town, Energy Program, Police and Fire Unions, Helping the Chamber

At the Monrovia City Council's July 16 meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/dCmga ) the council will ...

- Hear a report about Old Town. Among other things, the city wants to recruit national retailers for the area, "specifically those in the categories of nationally recognized bookstores, specialty gourmet food stores, retail wine stores, and gaming stores." Here's the report (It's pretty interesting): http://goo.gl/qydzB

- Consider a California program allowing residential, multifamily, and commercial property owners to participate in a clean energy program. Advantages to homeowner: cheap loans, lower energy costs, etc. http://goo.gl/bakC1

- Have more private discussion about a deal with the police union and firefighters union. http://goo.gl/5o4uq

- Consider a one-year "Support Services Agreement" with Monrovia Chamber of Commerce for $43,819.

- Brad Haugaard

73rd Wedding Anniversary for Monrovia Couple | Gourmet Dogs

~ Monrovia couple celebrates 73rd anniversary. http://goo.gl/aPAfD

~ S'Links hot dogs opens in Monrovia this August. http://goo.gl/qpRdl

- Brad Haugaard

A Mini on the Wall | Monrovia Train Maintenance Yard

~ The Monrovia Design Review Committee has approved a plan to put a car on the wall of the Mini dealership at Mountain and the 210 Freeway (1451 S. Mountain Ave ). http://goo.gl/z97PR

~ Update photo of progress on the Monrovia Gold Line maintenance yard. http://goo.gl/uJ4Ur

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Neighborhood Conference

Monrovia's Neighborhood Services Division invites you to the 4th Annual MAP Neighborhood Conference!

Sponsored by Wells Fargo Bank, the MAP Neighborhood Conference is a free; all day event that is open to the public and will be held on Saturday, August 10 at Monrovia High School from 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. The Conference will host 23 exciting workshop options educating participants on all kinds of topics like:

- Bully & Cyber Bully Prevention

- Emergency Preparedness

- Environmental Services

- Community Event Planning

- Gang Prevention & Intervention

- Communication & Leadership Training

...and will even offer a bus tour of Monrovia facilitated by Mayor Lutz. Throughout the day, participants will enjoy free food, entertainment, workshops and small group discussions with other residents, community leaders, city staff and local officials. This event is free, fun and a great way to be part of Team Monrovia!

While the MAP Neighborhood Conference is being offered free of charge, pre-registration is required and can be found online at cityofmonrovia.org, at the front counter of City Hall, Community Center or the Monrovia Public Library or by calling Neighborhood Services Staff at (626) 932-5525.

This event only comes once a year and it's not to be missed. Be sure to save your spot by registering early and tell your friends to do the same.

Source: Monrovia press release

- Brad Haugaard

Fallen Tree Blocks Monrovia Road | Rapist Being Released in LA Area

~ The City of Monrovia tweeted that a large fallen tree blocked the 600 block of Bradbury Road for a while today.

~ Supervisor Michael Antonovich, who represents Monrovia on the LA County Board of Supervisors, warns that the state is preparing to release a serial rapist into the Los Angeles County area. http://goo.gl/wQ3Z2

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Cop Saves Baby; Sketch Leads to Arrest; Pawning Parents' Power Tools; Suspect Flips Out on 210; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 1-7. - Brad Haugaard]

 

Following are the week's highlighted issues and events.

  

Residential Burglary  

July 1 at 9:58 a.m., officers were dispatched to a residence in the 600 block of West Lemon.  The burglary occurred sometime between 7:00 p.m. on June 29 and 9:45 a.m. on July 1.  Unknown Suspect(s) forced open a bedroom window on the east side of the house.  The suspect(s) then entered the location and stole a laptop computer, a small amount of cash and jewelry.

 

Medical Assist

July 1 at 8:18 p.m., an officer responded to a medical assist at the corner of Shamrock and Olive, regarding an infant not breathing.  When the officer arrived, there was no one at the location.  He had the dispatcher call back while he searched the area.  He ran to a church parking lot where he saw a group of people.  He yelled out to ask if they had a baby that wasn't breathing.  They ran up to the officer with the unconscious infant.  

 

The officer took the baby, turned him over and gave him several strikes on the back.  He cleared the infant's mouth, gave him an additional strike on the back and the baby started to cry.  Monrovia Fire Department paramedics arrived quickly and the baby was taken to a hospital for observation.    

 

Theft from a Vehicle

July 2 at 7:49 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of North Alta Vista reported a theft from her vehicle.  The victim parked her vehicle, locked the car and set the alarm.  When she returned to her car at 7:30 a.m. the next morning, she found the center console had been ransacked.  An older-model iPod and costume jewelry was stolen.  There was no sign of forced entry.  The investigation is continuing.

 

Driving on a Suspended License / Vehicle Burglary – Suspect Arrested

July 2 at 8:43 a.m., an officer on patrol observed a vehicle that matched the description of a car used in several recent vehicle burglaries.  An artist's sketch of the suspect had been released, and the officer noticed the driver looked similar to the sketch.  He stopped the driver to investigate and observed several unopened wine bottles and other possible stolen property.  The driver was found to have a suspended license, and the vehicle he was driving had expired registration.  The driver was arrested for driving on a suspended license and for further questioning regarding the recent burglaries.

 

Through investigation, it was learned that the suspect had served prison time for burglary.  A victim responded and positively identified the car and the suspect from a recent burglary that occurred on Foothill Boulevard.  The suspect was charged with burglary and is being held on bail.  The investigation is continuing.

 

Residential Burglary

July 2 at 11:49 a.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 100 block of West Cypress.  The suspect(s) entered the home through a rear door, breaking a glass window in the door and unlocking it.  A jewelry box was taken.  The burglary occurred sometime between 8:00 and 11:30 a.m.  The investigation is continuing.

 

Domestic Battery / False Imprisonment / Child Endangerment – Suspect Arrested

July 2 at 12:05 p.m., officers responded to the report of an assault in progress at Huntington and California.  They arrived and observed a male subject grab a female in a bear hug as she tried to get away; he then threw the female to the ground.  A small child was in a stroller, nearby.  The officers detained the male suspect.  The suspect and victim have a two-month-old child together.  They had been arguing over custody of the child, and the argument escalated and became physical.  The suspect was arrested for domestic battery, false imprisonment and child endangerment.

 

Receiving Stolen Property – Suspects Arrested

July 2 at 4:19 p.m., an officer on patrol observed two young male subjects walking with backpacks and several power tools in their hands.  Due to the recent burglaries in the area, he watched them enter a pawn store and contacted the two subjects concerning the power tools.  They could not provide a credible story about where they acquired the power tools.  The officer arrested both subjects for receiving stolen property.  

 

Through investigation, it was determined the tools had been taken from the garage of one of the suspect's parents.  The parent was contacted and discovered additional tools had been taken and pawned.  Despite this fact, the parent signed a refusal to prosecute.

 

Residential Burglary

July 3 at 2:35 p.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 200 block of Norumbega Drive.  The resident came home at 2:35 p.m. and found his front door open.  The victim did not enter the home and called the police.  The residence was checked, but the suspect(s) were already gone.  The home was ransacked and it is unknown what property was stolen.  The investigation is continuing.

 

Vehicle Burglary / Outside Assist – Arcadia Police Department – Suspects Arrested

July 4 at 9:31 a.m., a suspicious vehicle with two occupants was seen parked at a closed business near Fifth and Huntington.  As officers contacted the occupants of the vehicle, they observed a marijuana pipe inside the vehicle.  When they investigated further, they found a scanner inside the vehicle set to the Arcadia Police Department frequency.  There were other items of property in the vehicle that seemed suspicious.  The officer contacted Arcadia Police Department and they responded to the location.  

 

Through investigation, it was determined that the property inside the vehicle was stolen from a vehicle in Arcadia and officers were still on scene investigating the burglary.  The victim was brought to the location and identified the scanner as his, along with other property in the vehicle.  Arcadia officers arrested the suspects and took over the investigation.

 

Burglary Alarm Activation

July 5 at 2:53 p.m., officers were dispatched to an alarm activation at a residence in the 600 block of East Almond.  An officer saw what he believed was a possible suspect in the location.  The homeowners, who were out of town, were contacted and stated no one should be in their residence.  Containment of the area was established and when calls for the suspect to come out went unanswered, officers made entry with the assistance of the Pasadena police service dog.  After a thorough search, the house was cleared and no suspect was located.  The investigation is continuing.

 

Attempt Murder / Assault with a Deadly Weapon – Suspect Arrested

July 6 at 5:51 a.m., an injury traffic collision involving a vehicle and a bicyclist was reported at Mountain and Huntington.  Officers arrived and located a witness.  The witness reported that the bicyclist was stopped in the left turn bay, facing south on Mountain.  The vehicle approached from behind and almost struck the bicyclist.  The driver pulled forward, began circling the bicyclist with his vehicle, and then intentionally struck the bicyclist with his vehicle.  The vehicle then fled to the 210 Freeway and two male citizens/witnesses followed in their vehicle, calling the California Highway Patrol to report the incident. 

 

When the suspect realized he was being followed, he pulled over on the Freeway.  As the two witnesses were passing in their vehicle, the suspect drove into them.  The suspect then lost control of his vehicle, hit the center divider, and flipped his vehicle several times at the 210 Freeway and Vernon.  The driver managed to flee on foot, but was quickly apprehended by Azusa Police Department officers.  The driver was taken to a local hospital, where CHP continued their investigation.   

 

It was later learned that the driver had struck another bicyclist at Myrtle and Shrode, in an unincorporated area just outside Monrovia, just prior to hitting the bicyclist in Monrovia.  The bicyclist from the Monrovia incident was taken to a hospital for treatment.  Monrovia Police Department will follow up and request charges of attempt murder and assault with a deadly weapon be filed by the District Attorney's office.

 

Monrovia Assemblymember's Bill Passes Senate

Assembly Bill 139, by Monrovia's Assemblymember, Chris Holden, unanimously passed the Senate today. The bill strengthens penalties that abusers are required to pay to ensure more funding for Domestic Violence Shelters.

"AB 139 clears up a technicality in order to provide more funds for local domestic violence shelters. The bill stipulates that those convicted of domestic violence must pay a minimum $500 fee - not a fine - after they are granted probation. This clarification is important because it would clear up confusion over the $500 payment and ensure funding for local domestic violence programs."

Source: Holden press release

- Brad Haugaard

Ford Picks Monrovia's AeroVironment

Ford Motor Co. has switched to using Monrovia's AeroVironment to install home car-charging devices for its electric cars instead of Geek Squad. http://goo.gl/KglEb

- Brad Haugaard

Ramming Bicyclist | Low Truancy Rate in Monrovia

~ Man accused of intentionally hitting bicyclist with car in Monrovia. http://goo.gl/8BJPe

~ Monrovia schools. Low truancy rate. http://goo.gl/6gPMb

- Brad Haugaard

Unity Center Needs Volunteers | Burglar Escapes Monrovia Police

~ Foothill Unity Center could use volunteers for its project to give school supplies to needy children, Tuesday, August 13, at Santa Anita Race Track. Contact Raina Martinez at 626-358-3486 for more information.

~ Monrovia Police search for burglar, but he's gone. http://goo.gl/d69ia

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Shrimp House

Lunch at Shrimp House earlier this week, at Live Oak and Myrtle. Nice decor, friendly and efficient service, and well maintained. I got the combo plate ($8.95) and an iced tea ($2.59). You might like this if you like the traditional breaded style of fish.

- Brad Haugaard

Produce in the Park | Goodwill Fundraiser

~ Produce in the Park tomorrow. Exchange veggies and stuff. http://goo.gl/g2f1m

~ Goodwill Fundraiser on Saturday, a week from tomorrow, at Open Door Church. http://goo.gl/6qmuw

- Brad Haugaard

Happy Birthday America!

Happy birthday America! May you see many many more. 

Fireworks at Library Park. 

 

- Brad Haugaard

Fourth of July Pre Fireworks

This is Myrtle just before the fireworks show. Huge crowd. Next year I gotta get here earlier. 

 

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovians Want Ban on Plastic Bags | Fire Department Flags at Half Staff | Library Closed

~ About six or seven Monrovians asked the City Council Tuesday night to begin the process to ban plastic supermarket bags, saying that other cities are doing it, that the bags get into our waterways and are a hazard to wildlife. Councilman Alex Blackburn said the use of plastic bags is "socially primitive, myopic and childish" and objections to such a ban on them are just "excuses to behave selfishly."

~ Fire Department lowers flags to half staff to honor firefighters killed in the Arizona fire. http://goo.gl/1WCMv

~ The library will be closed both July 3 and 4. http://goo.gl/JgHhv

- Brad Haugaard

Federal Government May Want Control of Monrovia Foothills

At tonight's city council meeting, Monrovia Councilman Tom Adams warned that Congresswoman Judy Chu, who represents Monrovia, wants to include the Monrovia Hillside Preserve in a federal recreation area. Adams said he does not think there would be any advantage to Monrovia in having the Department of the Interior take control of the area. However, everybody else on the council except Alex Blackburn wanted to ask for a presentation on what the federal government plans to do with the land before taking a stand on it.

- Brad Haugaard

More Bad News for Newspapers?

Got this notice in today's Pasadena Star-News, which covers Monrovia. Having a big advertiser drop out - even if it is staying in for the Sunday edition - does not seem like good news for the newspaper. As a former reporter is sad to watch the decline of this industry.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's World Vision Building City in Desert | McFarland Sentenced | Xencor

~ Video: Monrovia's World Vision Christian relief agency, creating a whole city for Syrian refugees in Jordan. http://goo.gl/PrZIN

~ Monrovian Kelvin Bernard McFarland, who ran a "boot camp" in Pasadena, is sentenced. http://goo.gl/k0j7e

~ Monrovia's Xencor has licensed one of its patents "for a therapeutic monoclonal antibody" to the pharmaceutical company Merck. http://goo.gl/9lsf1

- Brad Haugaard

Gold Line to Claremont? Not Even on the List

Will the Gold Line be extended from Azusa to Claremont? Probably not in our lifetimes. http://goo.gl/RmWKV

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Suspects Arrested in Rash of Vehicle Burglaries; 'Well, Yeah, I Got a Meth Pipe'; Gang Members Hit Wrong House

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for June 27-30. - Brad Haugaard]

 

Following are the weekend's highlighted issues and events. 

 

Burglary / Stolen Vehicle

June 27 at 6:06 a.m., a burglary and grand theft that occurred overnight at a construction site near Magnolia and Evergreen was reported to police.  Unknown suspect(s) broke into a locked storage container and took supplies and tools.  They also stole a white, 1997, Ford flatbed truck, which was parked in front of the storage container.  The investigation is continuing.

 

Residential Burglary

June 27 at 3:21 p.m., residents from the 300 block of North Mayflower arrived home and found the front and back doors of their residence open.  They looked inside and saw the house had been ransacked and called police.  They were unable to determine if anything had been taken at the time.  Investigation continuing.

 

Commercial Burglary – Suspect Arrested

June 27 at 6:13 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a business in the 500 block of West Huntington regarding a burglary.  A male adult entered the store, selected merchandise and tried to return several items in order to obtain store credit.  He was denied the return, so he exited the store with the items he had tried to return.  He was stopped by store security and detained.  An officer arrived and interviewed the suspect; he was arrested for burglary as he admitted he went to the location with the intent of taking the merchandise.    

 

Rash of Vehicle Thefts and Burglaries

On June 28, 29, and 30 numerous vehicle thefts and burglaries that occurred during the night were reported to police.  Some of the vehicles were left unlocked and some were locked.  The suspect(s) entered the vehicles and took cash, paperwork, electronics and other miscellaneous items that were left in the vehicles.  In one incident, a window was smashed and a purse was taken that was left on the floorboard of the vehicle. 

 

Three different suspects were arrested in the City this week, two for drug charges and one for receiving stolen property.  All three suspects have a history of theft from vehicles and were contacted as officers provided extra patrol for thefts from vehicles.  The investigations are continuing.

 

Receiving Stolen Property – Suspect Arrested

June 28 at 10:10 a.m., officers responded to the 900 block of West Huntington on the report of a suspicious subject looking into vehicles.  Officers detained a subject matching the description and found he was carrying two bags.  A search revealed he had two car stereos in the bags, which he said were given to him.  An investigation was conducted, and the subject was subsequently arrested for receiving stolen property.

 

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested

June 29 at 7:40 p.m., an officer on patrol in the 300 block of South Mountain observed a subject who has a history of theft from vehicles.  The subject was contacted and through investigation, it was determined he was under the influence.  He was arrested and taken into custody.

 

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested

June 29 at 8:40 p.m., while on patrol in the area of Magnolia and Olive, an officer saw a suspicious subject duck behind a vehicle in the driveway of a residence.  The subject has a history of theft from vehicles.  The officer stopped and contacted the subject.  During the consensual contact, the officer asked the subject if he had anything illegal on him.  The subject admitted to having a methamphetamine pipe in his pocket.  The officer located a used glass smoking pipe on the subject.  He was arrested.

 

Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested

June 30 at 3:40 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle occupied by three subjects for failing to yield in the 2100 block of South Myrtle.  All three subjects were found to be on probation for theft.  The driver did not have any identification on his person and had a baggie of methamphetamine in his pocket.  The driver was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and his vehicle was stored.  The passengers were identified and released.

 

Injury Traffic Accident

June 30 at 1:38 p.m., two vehicles collided in the intersection of Huntington and California.  One of the vehicles failed to stop for the red light and ran into a car in the intersection.  The jaws of life were used to remove the passenger in the rear seat; she sustained moderate injuries and was taken to a hospital.

 

Shots Fired at Occupied Vehicle

June 30 at approximately 10:15 p.m., a female adult who is living in a motor home was sleeping in the vehicle.  The motor home was parked in the 1100 block of South Ivy.  The woman heard a noise and looked out the window.  She saw a dark-colored, possibly blue, Nissan Maxima or Sentra, occupied by three to four male Hispanic subjects.  The driver of the vehicle yelled out a gang epithet and then fired three or four shots at the motor home.  The suspects then fled in the vehicle, north on Ivy and east on Huntington.

 

Officers arrived and inspected the motor home.  They located three bullet holes in the glass windows.  The victim does not know who the suspects are and did not recognize the vehicle.  She has no gang affiliation.  The investigation is continuing.  Anyone with any information about this crime is asked to contact the Monrovia Police Department.