Happy New Year from the Monrovia New Year's Eve party on Myrtle!
- Brad Haugaard
Lights on In New Monrovia Train Maintenance Facility
The lights have been switched on in the main shop building of the new Gold Line maintenance yard next to Home Depot in Monrovia. http://goo.gl/NMJZrH
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Trader Joe's Float in Parade | Monrovia Drones in Canada | Party Tonight
~ Watch for float by Monrovia-based Trader Joe's in the Rose Parade: http://goo.gl/OmHCDg
~ Canada considering drones made by Monrovia's AeroVironment for search and rescue and other tasks. Privacy a concern. http://goo.gl/xY0ZYR
~ Monrovia's New Year's Eve festival tonight: http://goo.gl/yK6AFI
- Brad Haugaard
~ Canada considering drones made by Monrovia's AeroVironment for search and rescue and other tasks. Privacy a concern. http://goo.gl/xY0ZYR
~ Monrovia's New Year's Eve festival tonight: http://goo.gl/yK6AFI
- Brad Haugaard
Rain | Cold for New Year's Eve | Les Miserables Auditions
~ Chance of rain has risen to 60% this Tuesday. http://goo.gl/scVSkg
~ National Weather Service warns of freezing or near-freezing temperatures in the area for New Year's Eve into New Year's Day morning ( http://goo.gl/JjFZBx ). I guess this means to bundle up tight for Monrovia's New Year's Eve festival: http://goo.gl/yK6AFI
~ Auditions for Les Miserables at IFGF Church in Monrovia (at Primrose and Palm) this Saturday, Jan. 3 at 9 a.m. Bring 16 bars of a piece from the show or a similar selection. Julie Lamouruex, accompanist, provided. All roles except Jean Valjean open. Directed by Keely Milliken. No Pay. Performances March 26-April 4. For information call 297-4758
- Brad Haugaard
~ National Weather Service warns of freezing or near-freezing temperatures in the area for New Year's Eve into New Year's Day morning ( http://goo.gl/JjFZBx ). I guess this means to bundle up tight for Monrovia's New Year's Eve festival: http://goo.gl/yK6AFI
~ Auditions for Les Miserables at IFGF Church in Monrovia (at Primrose and Palm) this Saturday, Jan. 3 at 9 a.m. Bring 16 bars of a piece from the show or a similar selection. Julie Lamouruex, accompanist, provided. All roles except Jean Valjean open. Directed by Keely Milliken. No Pay. Performances March 26-April 4. For information call 297-4758
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Kicking Girlfriend; Mail Theft; Missing Boy Found; Suicide Prevention; Etc.
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 18-28. - Brad Haugaard]
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Residential Burglary
December 18 at 6:14 p.m., a resident in the 400 block of East Cypress called police to report his home had been burglarized. The victim reported that he left his residence in the morning with all doors and windows locked. He returned home in the evening and found his residence had been broken into and ransacked. It appears the suspect(s) forced entry through the kitchen door by prying it open with some type of tool. The suspect(s) ransacked the house and left back out through the kitchen door. The only loss appears to be a laptop computer. The investigation is continuing.
Identity Theft / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspects Arrested
December 19 at 11:30 a.m., an officer responded to a hotel in the 900 block of South Fifth Avenue on the report of a subject using a fraudulent credit card to rent a room. The investigation revealed the two suspects in the room were in possession of several credit cards and mail belonging to possible victims, fraudulent DMV identification cards, and methamphetamine. Both suspects were arrested and held, pending their court appearance.
Identity Theft / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
December 19 at 2:14 p.m., an officer was sent to a hotel in the 900 block of South Fifth Avenue in reference to a fraud investigation. The investigation revealed the suspect in the room was in possession of several credit cards and mail belonging to possible victims. The suspect was also found to be in possession of methamphetamine and heroin. The suspect was arrested and held, pending his court appearance.
Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 19 at 7:55 p.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop in the area of Tenth and El Norte for a vehicle code violation. Upon investigation, he discovered the driver had two outstanding warrants. The subject was arrested and taken into custody for the warrants.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 20 at 2:07 a.m., a vehicle was observed by officers being driven erratically in the area of Evergreen and Myrtle. The driver was stopped and was determined to be driving under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested and taken into custody.
Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 20 at 5:10 a.m., officers on patrol in the area of Duarte and Mayflower observed a male subject who appeared to be loitering near several vehicles. The officers contacted the subject and discovered he had an outstanding warrant; he was arrested and taken into custody.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 21 at 2:15 a.m., an officer on patrol in the area of Magnolia and Huntington stopped a driver for a vehicle code violation. After investigation, the driver was determined to be driving under the influence. The driver was arrested and taken into custody.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 21 at 3:15 a.m., an officer observed a driver make several vehicle code violations near Myrtle and Central. The officer stopped the driver, and after investigating, determined the driver was driving under the influence of alcohol. The driver was arrested and taken into custody.
Commercial Burglary
December 22 at 7:24 a.m., a commercial burglary was reported at a business in the 200 block of East Foothill. Suspect(s) possibly entered the business with a key or through an unlocked door and forced open a safe. The suspects took cash from the safe, a computer system, two hard drives and iPads. Later in the shift, the victim called and reported a credit card had also been taken from the business and was used at a Walmart. The investigation is continuing.
Bicycle Theft / Possession of Burglary Tools – Suspect Arrested
December 22 at 11:22 p.m., officers were dispatched to the report of a bicycle theft in the 400 block of East Duarte Road. While responding to the area, the officers observed the suspect riding the stolen bike. The subject was stopped and detained. The subject was in possession of a backpack, which was found to contain cutting pliers. The suspect claimed he was given the bike, but admitted to cutting the lock on the bicycle. He was arrested for the theft and possession of burglary tools.
Domestic Violence / Criminal Threats – Suspect Arrested
December 23 at 12:46 p.m., officers responded to the report of possible domestic violence at a residence in the 1300 block of South Alta Vista. Upon arrival, they located a female subject with visible injuries. Further investigation revealed the female subject’s boyfriend had punched her in the back of the head during an argument. The female attempted to call the police from her cell phone. The suspect threw her on the ground, started kicking her, and threatened to kill her. The suspect was arrested for domestic violence and criminal threats.
Possession of Methamphetamine – Suspect Arrested
December 23 at 9:36 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the 100 block of West Palm regarding possible drug activity going on around the park area. Upon investigation, officers located and arrested a 58-year-old male subject for sales of methamphetamine. The suspect was in possession of a backpack containing methamphetamine packaged in small baggies.
Mail Theft
December 24 at 2:35 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of Acorn called police to report a suspicious vehicle that was driving slowly and circling through their neighborhood. Officers arrived and contacted the subjects in the car. The driver was found to have a suspended license, and a consent search of the vehicle revealed stolen mail under the passenger seat of the vehicle. The subjects are husband and wife, and both were arrested for mail theft.
Critical Missing Located
On December 25 at 10:40 p.m., a 14-year-old autistic male juvenile was reported missing from a residence in the 500 block of East Walnut. The child had wandered away from the home. A description of the child was broadcast and officers conducted an area search. At approximately 12:35 a.m., the child was located by a relative at a Walmart in the city of Duarte.
Mental Evaluation
On December 28 at 9:50 p.m., an adult female phoned police to report her 28-year-old son was suicidal, aggressive and was threatening her. She had left the residence to phone police for help. Officers responded to the location in the 300 block of North Mountain Avenue and de-escalated the situation. They spoke with the adult son and determined that he was suicidal. He was determined to be both a danger to himself and others; he was taken to a hospital, where he was held for a 72-hour mental evaluation.
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Residential Burglary
December 18 at 6:14 p.m., a resident in the 400 block of East Cypress called police to report his home had been burglarized. The victim reported that he left his residence in the morning with all doors and windows locked. He returned home in the evening and found his residence had been broken into and ransacked. It appears the suspect(s) forced entry through the kitchen door by prying it open with some type of tool. The suspect(s) ransacked the house and left back out through the kitchen door. The only loss appears to be a laptop computer. The investigation is continuing.
Identity Theft / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspects Arrested
December 19 at 11:30 a.m., an officer responded to a hotel in the 900 block of South Fifth Avenue on the report of a subject using a fraudulent credit card to rent a room. The investigation revealed the two suspects in the room were in possession of several credit cards and mail belonging to possible victims, fraudulent DMV identification cards, and methamphetamine. Both suspects were arrested and held, pending their court appearance.
Identity Theft / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
December 19 at 2:14 p.m., an officer was sent to a hotel in the 900 block of South Fifth Avenue in reference to a fraud investigation. The investigation revealed the suspect in the room was in possession of several credit cards and mail belonging to possible victims. The suspect was also found to be in possession of methamphetamine and heroin. The suspect was arrested and held, pending his court appearance.
Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 19 at 7:55 p.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop in the area of Tenth and El Norte for a vehicle code violation. Upon investigation, he discovered the driver had two outstanding warrants. The subject was arrested and taken into custody for the warrants.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 20 at 2:07 a.m., a vehicle was observed by officers being driven erratically in the area of Evergreen and Myrtle. The driver was stopped and was determined to be driving under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested and taken into custody.
Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 20 at 5:10 a.m., officers on patrol in the area of Duarte and Mayflower observed a male subject who appeared to be loitering near several vehicles. The officers contacted the subject and discovered he had an outstanding warrant; he was arrested and taken into custody.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 21 at 2:15 a.m., an officer on patrol in the area of Magnolia and Huntington stopped a driver for a vehicle code violation. After investigation, the driver was determined to be driving under the influence. The driver was arrested and taken into custody.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 21 at 3:15 a.m., an officer observed a driver make several vehicle code violations near Myrtle and Central. The officer stopped the driver, and after investigating, determined the driver was driving under the influence of alcohol. The driver was arrested and taken into custody.
Commercial Burglary
December 22 at 7:24 a.m., a commercial burglary was reported at a business in the 200 block of East Foothill. Suspect(s) possibly entered the business with a key or through an unlocked door and forced open a safe. The suspects took cash from the safe, a computer system, two hard drives and iPads. Later in the shift, the victim called and reported a credit card had also been taken from the business and was used at a Walmart. The investigation is continuing.
Bicycle Theft / Possession of Burglary Tools – Suspect Arrested
December 22 at 11:22 p.m., officers were dispatched to the report of a bicycle theft in the 400 block of East Duarte Road. While responding to the area, the officers observed the suspect riding the stolen bike. The subject was stopped and detained. The subject was in possession of a backpack, which was found to contain cutting pliers. The suspect claimed he was given the bike, but admitted to cutting the lock on the bicycle. He was arrested for the theft and possession of burglary tools.
Domestic Violence / Criminal Threats – Suspect Arrested
December 23 at 12:46 p.m., officers responded to the report of possible domestic violence at a residence in the 1300 block of South Alta Vista. Upon arrival, they located a female subject with visible injuries. Further investigation revealed the female subject’s boyfriend had punched her in the back of the head during an argument. The female attempted to call the police from her cell phone. The suspect threw her on the ground, started kicking her, and threatened to kill her. The suspect was arrested for domestic violence and criminal threats.
Possession of Methamphetamine – Suspect Arrested
December 23 at 9:36 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the 100 block of West Palm regarding possible drug activity going on around the park area. Upon investigation, officers located and arrested a 58-year-old male subject for sales of methamphetamine. The suspect was in possession of a backpack containing methamphetamine packaged in small baggies.
Mail Theft
December 24 at 2:35 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of Acorn called police to report a suspicious vehicle that was driving slowly and circling through their neighborhood. Officers arrived and contacted the subjects in the car. The driver was found to have a suspended license, and a consent search of the vehicle revealed stolen mail under the passenger seat of the vehicle. The subjects are husband and wife, and both were arrested for mail theft.
Critical Missing Located
On December 25 at 10:40 p.m., a 14-year-old autistic male juvenile was reported missing from a residence in the 500 block of East Walnut. The child had wandered away from the home. A description of the child was broadcast and officers conducted an area search. At approximately 12:35 a.m., the child was located by a relative at a Walmart in the city of Duarte.
Mental Evaluation
On December 28 at 9:50 p.m., an adult female phoned police to report her 28-year-old son was suicidal, aggressive and was threatening her. She had left the residence to phone police for help. Officers responded to the location in the 300 block of North Mountain Avenue and de-escalated the situation. They spoke with the adult son and determined that he was suicidal. He was determined to be both a danger to himself and others; he was taken to a hospital, where he was held for a 72-hour mental evaluation.
Astronomy Tonight in Monrovia? | Rain and Cold Coming?
~ I hear that tonight there MAY be a couple sidewalk astronomers at the southeast corner of Library Park, at Myrtle and Lime. Try around 6 or 7 p.m. They'll have their telescopes aimed at the moon and hope to get a glimpse of Venus as well.
~ 40 percent chance of rain in Monrovia this coming Tuesday, and a low of 35 degrees this coming Wednesday. Brrrr. http://goo.gl/somNLE
- Brad Haugaard
~ 40 percent chance of rain in Monrovia this coming Tuesday, and a low of 35 degrees this coming Wednesday. Brrrr. http://goo.gl/somNLE
- Brad Haugaard
St. Francis over Monrovia :-( Former Mayor Bob Bartlett Celebration
~ Basketball. 58-43, St. Francis over Monrovia. http://goo.gl/MfCLGw
~ Video: Conversations with Ralph Walker, who attends the ceremony celebrating former Monrovia Mayor Bob Bartlett. http://goo.gl/hGvPa9
- Brad Haugaard
~ Video: Conversations with Ralph Walker, who attends the ceremony celebrating former Monrovia Mayor Bob Bartlett. http://goo.gl/hGvPa9
- Brad Haugaard
Lunch at Jersey Mike's
Lunch at Jersey Mike's, in the Sprouts shopping center on Huntington. Got the regular size Famous Roast Beef and Provolone sandwich ($8.25) and a large iced tea ($2.49). Nice.
- Brad Haugaard
Autistic Boy Lost and Found | New Year's Day in Monrovia
~ Monrovia Police report a 14-year-old autistic boy was lost late last night and temperatures were getting down into the 40s, but fortunately he was found at Walmart.
~ Next up, New Year's Eve on Myrtle, from 7 p.m. to midnight. Beer and wine, kids' area, ball drop, restaurants, live music with the Lance and Gary Show. http://goo.gl/yK6AFI
- Brad Haugaard
~ Next up, New Year's Eve on Myrtle, from 7 p.m. to midnight. Beer and wine, kids' area, ball drop, restaurants, live music with the Lance and Gary Show. http://goo.gl/yK6AFI
- Brad Haugaard
Merry Christmas, Monrovia!
"Child and Madonna," oil on canvas board, by Brad Haugaard.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police Provide Christmas Help for Needy Family
Yesterday Monrovia Police delivered a Christmas tree and gift cards to a Monrovia family in need whose baby recently died due to illness. http://goo.gl/lOKLoK
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Salvation Army Chorus at Pavilions Market
A Salvation Army chorus sings at Pavilions market in Monrovia.
- Brad Haugaard
Magnolia to Be Closed South of Freeway for Construction
Magnolia Avenue will be closed from Evergreen Avenue (that's the south-side freeway-access street) down to Genoa Street (that's one block above Duarte) from December 29 to January 9. Crews will be excavating for electrical vaults in the street on Dec. 29. The road will be closed during working hours from December 29 until January 9, but will remain open New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day. Source: press release
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Fire Department Helps Family That Lost Everything | Possible Winds Today
~ Monrovia Fire Department and Spark of Love toy drive have stepped in to make Christmas better for a Monrovia family that lost everything in a fire. http://goo.gl/KHCDq6
~ Possible winds today - 20-30 mph with gusts to 40 - until about 3 p.m. http://goo.gl/gFT2BI
- Brad Haugaard
~ Possible winds today - 20-30 mph with gusts to 40 - until about 3 p.m. http://goo.gl/gFT2BI
- Brad Haugaard
Citrus a 'Fastest Growing' School | Monrovia Providers Group Gets Donation
~ Citrus College, which serves Monrovia, has been named one of the fastest-growing community colleges in the nation, according to a recent Community College Week report. The college ranked fifth among U.S. community colleges with enrollments of 10,000 or more, according to 2012 and 2013 records. Nearly 13,000 students attended Citrus College in 2013, a 10 percent increase over the previous year. Source: press release
~ At its 90th Anniversary Breakfast on December 10 the Arcadia Association of Realtors donated $1,000 to Monrovia Providers Group. MPG is a non-profit organization of community agencies and private resources that provides services to area seniors. Source: press release
- Brad Haugaard
~ At its 90th Anniversary Breakfast on December 10 the Arcadia Association of Realtors donated $1,000 to Monrovia Providers Group. MPG is a non-profit organization of community agencies and private resources that provides services to area seniors. Source: press release
- Brad Haugaard
Police Chief Hunt: Proposition 47 'Terrible' for Monrovia Merchants
Let's say you (foolishly) leave your iPad on the front seat of your car, forget to lock the door, and go shopping. You come out, see someone making off with your iPad and call the Monrovia Police. They catch the guy. Hooray! But what happens next?
A ticket. The thief gets a citation, and he may be ticketed right on the spot and released, though he may be brought in for fingerprinting and identification. But at the end of the day the suspect walks out the door with a misdemeanor citation.
Monrovia Police Chief James Hunt told me why.
With the passage of Proposition 47, which Hunt strongly opposed (see here: http://goo.gl/dETaoI ) many felonies were turned into misdemeanors, including many types of theft.
Previously, he said, if a person stole something worth more than $500, it was a felony, or if he entered a business - for example - with the intent of stealing, regardless of the value of the item, it was a felony. Now, as long as the value of the item is under $950, it's a misdemeanor and it doesn't matter if the criminal has been doing it all day long all over town and has 100 prior arrests for the same crime, it's still a misdemeanor.
And even if the suspect is convicted in court, Hunt said, the likelihood of him spending time in jail is extremely low since there is little room in the jails for misdemeanor offenders.
The effect of the law, he said, was almost immediate. Just after it passed, he said, police stopped crimes and were told by the thieves, "You can't arrest me for a misdemeanor."
"Why break in to steal something when you can just grab it and run out the door?" Hunt said. The worst you face if you get caught is a misdemeanor charge.
"For our merchants," he said, "it's terrible."
All businesses are affected, he added, but the large retailers like Home Depot, Kohl's and supermarkets (where thieves like to grab alcohol) are hit hardest.
Hunt is also concerned that...
~ People serving jail time for felonies are petitioning to be released early since their crimes are now misdemeanors.
~ Probation terms are not applied for misdemeanors, and with some felonies being reclassified as misedmeanors, probation terms will not apply.
~ Possession of drugs, even date-rape drugs, is now just a ticketing offense.
- Brad Haugaard
A ticket. The thief gets a citation, and he may be ticketed right on the spot and released, though he may be brought in for fingerprinting and identification. But at the end of the day the suspect walks out the door with a misdemeanor citation.
Monrovia Police Chief James Hunt told me why.
With the passage of Proposition 47, which Hunt strongly opposed (see here: http://goo.gl/dETaoI ) many felonies were turned into misdemeanors, including many types of theft.
Previously, he said, if a person stole something worth more than $500, it was a felony, or if he entered a business - for example - with the intent of stealing, regardless of the value of the item, it was a felony. Now, as long as the value of the item is under $950, it's a misdemeanor and it doesn't matter if the criminal has been doing it all day long all over town and has 100 prior arrests for the same crime, it's still a misdemeanor.
And even if the suspect is convicted in court, Hunt said, the likelihood of him spending time in jail is extremely low since there is little room in the jails for misdemeanor offenders.
The effect of the law, he said, was almost immediate. Just after it passed, he said, police stopped crimes and were told by the thieves, "You can't arrest me for a misdemeanor."
"Why break in to steal something when you can just grab it and run out the door?" Hunt said. The worst you face if you get caught is a misdemeanor charge.
"For our merchants," he said, "it's terrible."
All businesses are affected, he added, but the large retailers like Home Depot, Kohl's and supermarkets (where thieves like to grab alcohol) are hit hardest.
Hunt is also concerned that...
~ People serving jail time for felonies are petitioning to be released early since their crimes are now misdemeanors.
~ Probation terms are not applied for misdemeanors, and with some felonies being reclassified as misedmeanors, probation terms will not apply.
~ Possession of drugs, even date-rape drugs, is now just a ticketing offense.
- Brad Haugaard
Candlelight Service at Monrovia's First Presbyterian Church
First Presbyterian Church of Monrovia will hold a Christmas Eve (Dec. 24) candlelight service at 5:30 p.m. http://goo.gl/Ht92gf
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Lunch at Church's Chicken
Lunch at Church's Chicken, at the corner of Huntington and Shamrock. Got the three-piece lunch for $7.49. Came with drink, biscuit, mashed potatoes and handy spork. Not health food, but filling and tasty. If you want something healthy, go next-door to Something Healthy. There was a sign saying, "Have a side of chicken genius." No clue what that means and neither did the attendant.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Company Installs Big Battery
CODA Energy of Monrovia has installed the "largest behind the meter lithium-ion energy storage system in the Los Angeles basin." CODA began installations at the beginning of this year and now has nearly 3MWh of energy storage installations. The company designs and builds "industrial energy storage solutions." http://goo.gl/mc7Xph
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Awesome Christmas Street in Monrovia
Wow! Ignore my bad photography and check this street out for yourself. Amazing and enchantingly beautiful! Winner of the Best Neighborhood Effort in Monrovia's Holiday Home Decorating Contest, Valmont Drive and Valmont Place. From Foothill drive north on Norumbega, past Greystone, past Valle Vista, then turn left on Valmont. You're there. Really, it's great!
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police Tip: Don’t Fill Your Vehicle With Presents for Thieves!
It only takes a few seconds for thieves to break into your vehicle and steal your valuables.
It only takes a few seconds to remove your valuables and secure your vehicle.
Don't Be a Victim!
Auto-burglary prevention starts by limiting the criminal's opportunity to commit the crime and can be accomplished with very little time and effort. Criminals are looking for something to steal - don't supply the valuables. Leaving your valuables in your vehicle instantly makes your car a target for thieves.
Take a few seconds to prevent auto-burglary!
The University of Oklahoma Police Department offers great auto-burglary prevention tips, here: http://goo.gl/jnhKHY
- Brad Haugaard
It only takes a few seconds to remove your valuables and secure your vehicle.
Don't Be a Victim!
Auto-burglary prevention starts by limiting the criminal's opportunity to commit the crime and can be accomplished with very little time and effort. Criminals are looking for something to steal - don't supply the valuables. Leaving your valuables in your vehicle instantly makes your car a target for thieves.
Take a few seconds to prevent auto-burglary!
The University of Oklahoma Police Department offers great auto-burglary prevention tips, here: http://goo.gl/jnhKHY
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Snoozing Driver Hits Power Pole; Thefts from Vehicles; Etc.
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 15-17. - Brad Haugaard]
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 369 service events, resulting in 68 investigations.
Injury Traffic Collision
December 16 at 4:06 a.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 700 block of East Huntington Drive. The female driver of the vehicle had just left work, fell asleep at the wheel and struck a power pole. She was not badly injured, but there were downed power lines. Southern California Edison was advised.
Attempt Theft From a Vehicle
December 16 at 5:40 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of West Lime heard noise to the front of her residence. She noticed a male subject dressed in dark clothing trying to get into her car. She called police, who arrived at the location and saw the suspect run north. Containment was set up, but the suspect was not located. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
December 16 at 7:23 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 700 block of West Huntington. Unknown suspect(s) smashed the rear window and took a black backpack with an iPad and an Apple Computer in it, as well as credit and identification cards. A credit card was used at a Walmart in Rosemead a short time later. The investigation is continuing.
Residential Burglary
December 16 at 1:47 p.m., police responded to the report of a residential burglary in the 100 block of North Madison. While the victims were away, the home was broken into and ransacked. Point of entry was a sliding glass door that was smashed and items of jewelry were stolen. The investigation is continuing.
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 369 service events, resulting in 68 investigations.
Injury Traffic Collision
December 16 at 4:06 a.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 700 block of East Huntington Drive. The female driver of the vehicle had just left work, fell asleep at the wheel and struck a power pole. She was not badly injured, but there were downed power lines. Southern California Edison was advised.
Attempt Theft From a Vehicle
December 16 at 5:40 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of West Lime heard noise to the front of her residence. She noticed a male subject dressed in dark clothing trying to get into her car. She called police, who arrived at the location and saw the suspect run north. Containment was set up, but the suspect was not located. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
December 16 at 7:23 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 700 block of West Huntington. Unknown suspect(s) smashed the rear window and took a black backpack with an iPad and an Apple Computer in it, as well as credit and identification cards. A credit card was used at a Walmart in Rosemead a short time later. The investigation is continuing.
Residential Burglary
December 16 at 1:47 p.m., police responded to the report of a residential burglary in the 100 block of North Madison. While the victims were away, the home was broken into and ransacked. Point of entry was a sliding glass door that was smashed and items of jewelry were stolen. The investigation is continuing.
Celebrating Former Monrovia Mayor Bob Bartlett
Tomorrow former Monrovia Mayor Bob Bartlett will be celebrated at Bethel AME Church in Monrovia, where he was recently voted Man of the Year. Details: http://goo.gl/KcIxQA
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Best Christmas Displays in Monrovia
If you want a list of Christmas-decorated homes to see, try the winners of Monrovia's Annual Holiday Home Decorating Contest. The winners are:
- Brad Haugaard
- Best Still Display - 702 East Lemon Avenue (Note: a reader believes this may actually be E. Lime)
- Best Neighborhood Effort - Valmont Drive & Valmont Place
- Best Outdoor Display - 409 Meadow Lane
- Best Window Display - 550 South Park Rose Avenue
- Holiday Spirit Award - 639 Parker Avenue
- Snowman Award - 632 Terrado Drive
- Toyland Award - 214 South Alta Vista Avenue
- Best Decorated Outdoor Tree - 308 West Lemon Avenue
- Children's Choice Award - 333 Norumbega Drive
- Judges' Award - 2514 Rochelle Avenue
- Most Effective Use of Outdoor Holiday Lighting - 163 Mauna Loa Drive
- Tim McKeehan "Best of Season" Award - 309 North Madison Avenue
Source: http://goo.gl/X2sXon
- Brad Haugaard
Fire Truck Santa Touring Monrovia
- Brad Haugaard
More Monrovia Christmas Lights
The most Christmas-light covered house I have seen so far this year. Very nice! On Alta Vista south of Foothill, about a half block north of Palm.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Congresswoman Judy Chu Rebuked by House Ethics Committee
Congresswoman Judy Chu, who represents the top edge of Monrovia, has been rebuked for interfering with an investigation by the House Ethics Committee into whether some of her staff members used some of their time to do campaign work. The committee found she didn't know about the improper work, but that she did interfere with the investigation. She apologized. http://goo.gl/Cy2h4R
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Rain Shouldn't Cause Debris Flow Below Madison Burn Area in Monrovia
LA County Department of Water and Power predicts that the current rain shouldn't result in "appreciable amounts of debris on streets or specific public infrastructure locations" from the Madison Fire burn area above Monrovia. http://goo.gl/g0qbj2
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Montgomery Named President of Citrus Board | Monrovia Dancers Place First | More Rain?
~ On Saturday Monrovia High School Dance placed first in its category, first in its division, and first place overall, earning the dance team the championship banner. http://goo.gl/ZxLajd
~ Cloudy with occasional rain tomorrow, Tuesday. 60% chance of showers. http://goo.gl/HdDex8
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Drunken Bicycling; Refusing to Leave Hotel; Domestic Violence; Etc.
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 11-14. - Brad Haugaard]
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
December 11 at 4:40 p.m., officers responded to the 500 block of West Lime regarding a family disturbance. A female subject went to the location in an effort to visit her children. Family members at the location observed the female acting bizarre and called the police. Upon investigation, it was determined the female was under the influence of methamphetamine and she was arrested. The female was taken into custody and later released on a citation after a sobering period.
Theft From a Vehicle
December 12 at 8:53 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 100 block of North Grand on the report of a theft from a vehicle. Unknown suspect(s) entered the victim's unlocked vehicle and stole identification items from the glove box. The theft occurred sometime overnight. The investigation is continuing.
Residential Burglary
December 12 at 8:54 a.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 200 block of Jasmine. The suspect(s) entered the victim's unlocked garage and forced entry into their vehicle by smashing a window. The victim's purse was in plain view and stolen from the passenger seat. The suspect(s) then left the area undetected. The investigation is continuing.
Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
December 12 at 4:40 p.m., an employee from a hotel in the 900 block of West Huntington called police to report a guest refusing to leave. The subject was contacted by an officer and found to be in possession of methamphetamine. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody. He had warrants for his arrest and was held for the warrants.
Riding a Bicycle Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect arrested.
December 13 at 1:15 a.m., an officer observed a subject riding his bicycle on the wrong side of the road in the 1500 block of South Myrtle. Through investigation, the subject was determined to be under the influence of alcohol and was arrested. Battery December 13 at 1:50 p.m., officers responded to a local bar in the 100 block of East Olive regarding a battery report. The fight inside the bar was over a female patron. All parties refused to prosecute.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
December 14 at 1:25 a.m., dispatch received a call from a female subject reporting her husband was intoxicated and left the residence in his vehicle from the 700 block of West Foothill. Officers found the vehicle and stopped the driver. Upon investigation, the driver was determined to be under the influence of alcohol and was arrested.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
December 14 at 3:00 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation in the area of Myrtle and Foothill. Through investigation, the officer determined the driver to be under the influence of alcohol. The driver was arrested and taken into custody.
Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
December 14 at 1:57 p.m., a male was seen walking south in the 100 block of South Myrtle and appeared to be heavily intoxicated, staggering back and forth slowly as he walked. Officers detained the subject and determined his was too intoxicated to care for his own safety; he was arrested.
Petty Theft – Suspect Arrested
December 14 at 5:29 p.m., a female was detained at a store in the 1600 block of South Mountain by store loss prevention. She had entered the store and stole bathroom items, knowing she did not have enough money to pay for them. Officers arrived and accepted the store's private person’s arrest. The female was issued a misdemeanor citation at the store, then released on a citation pending court appearance.
Domestic Battery – Suspect Arrested
December 14 at 6:23 p.m., dispatch received several calls reporting a disturbance in the 700 block of West Foothill. Police then received a 911 call from a female, believed to be the victim, who reported her husband had just beaten her up. Officers responded and determined this was an ongoing marital dispute. The female was taken to a hospital for complaint of pain to her back. The husband was arrested for domestic violence.
Mental Evaluation
December 15 at 5:58 a.m., a caller reported an erratic driver in the 200 block of South Myrtle to police. Officers responded and found the subject in the vehicle. After speaking with the subject, it was determined he was a danger to himself and others. He was placed on a mental evaluation hold and taken to a hospital, where he will be held for 72 hours.
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
December 11 at 4:40 p.m., officers responded to the 500 block of West Lime regarding a family disturbance. A female subject went to the location in an effort to visit her children. Family members at the location observed the female acting bizarre and called the police. Upon investigation, it was determined the female was under the influence of methamphetamine and she was arrested. The female was taken into custody and later released on a citation after a sobering period.
Theft From a Vehicle
December 12 at 8:53 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 100 block of North Grand on the report of a theft from a vehicle. Unknown suspect(s) entered the victim's unlocked vehicle and stole identification items from the glove box. The theft occurred sometime overnight. The investigation is continuing.
Residential Burglary
December 12 at 8:54 a.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 200 block of Jasmine. The suspect(s) entered the victim's unlocked garage and forced entry into their vehicle by smashing a window. The victim's purse was in plain view and stolen from the passenger seat. The suspect(s) then left the area undetected. The investigation is continuing.
Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
December 12 at 4:40 p.m., an employee from a hotel in the 900 block of West Huntington called police to report a guest refusing to leave. The subject was contacted by an officer and found to be in possession of methamphetamine. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody. He had warrants for his arrest and was held for the warrants.
Riding a Bicycle Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect arrested.
December 13 at 1:15 a.m., an officer observed a subject riding his bicycle on the wrong side of the road in the 1500 block of South Myrtle. Through investigation, the subject was determined to be under the influence of alcohol and was arrested. Battery December 13 at 1:50 p.m., officers responded to a local bar in the 100 block of East Olive regarding a battery report. The fight inside the bar was over a female patron. All parties refused to prosecute.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
December 14 at 1:25 a.m., dispatch received a call from a female subject reporting her husband was intoxicated and left the residence in his vehicle from the 700 block of West Foothill. Officers found the vehicle and stopped the driver. Upon investigation, the driver was determined to be under the influence of alcohol and was arrested.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
December 14 at 3:00 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation in the area of Myrtle and Foothill. Through investigation, the officer determined the driver to be under the influence of alcohol. The driver was arrested and taken into custody.
Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
December 14 at 1:57 p.m., a male was seen walking south in the 100 block of South Myrtle and appeared to be heavily intoxicated, staggering back and forth slowly as he walked. Officers detained the subject and determined his was too intoxicated to care for his own safety; he was arrested.
Petty Theft – Suspect Arrested
December 14 at 5:29 p.m., a female was detained at a store in the 1600 block of South Mountain by store loss prevention. She had entered the store and stole bathroom items, knowing she did not have enough money to pay for them. Officers arrived and accepted the store's private person’s arrest. The female was issued a misdemeanor citation at the store, then released on a citation pending court appearance.
Domestic Battery – Suspect Arrested
December 14 at 6:23 p.m., dispatch received several calls reporting a disturbance in the 700 block of West Foothill. Police then received a 911 call from a female, believed to be the victim, who reported her husband had just beaten her up. Officers responded and determined this was an ongoing marital dispute. The female was taken to a hospital for complaint of pain to her back. The husband was arrested for domestic violence.
Mental Evaluation
December 15 at 5:58 a.m., a caller reported an erratic driver in the 200 block of South Myrtle to police. Officers responded and found the subject in the vehicle. After speaking with the subject, it was determined he was a danger to himself and others. He was placed on a mental evaluation hold and taken to a hospital, where he will be held for 72 hours.
Watch Out for Gold Line Testing Train
Watch out for the testing train. It will be riding along the Gold Line track through Monrovia until Dec. 19. It "will be moving very slowly and will result in short-term stoppages of street traffic at the intersection." Occasional short-term stoppages of street traffic at the Mountain Ave. from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Only on weekdays; no weekend testing is expected. Details: http://goo.gl/8tNPsI
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia's First Fire Engine Being Restored - Needs Another $50k
Monrovia's first fire engine, a 1917 Seagrave, is being restored by volunteers but it is going to cost another $50,000 to complete it. If you'd like to donate, send check to "Save the Grave," P.O. Box 2021, Monrovia, CA 91017. Pictures and details here: http://goo.gl/eFbo1r
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
The Origin of Pink Christmas Flamingos on Monrovia's North Alta Vista
A letter from MonroviaNow reader Anna Marie Hetman.
I noticed your compliment in MonroviaNow ( http://goo.gl/E8aSEM ) regarding the flamingos and lights on North Alta Vista. I'd like to tell "the rest of the story", stealing a line from Paul Harvey, so you have the background.
Several years ago my husband, Tom Hetman, and I returned from seeing the lights at Hastings Ranch. Tom was telling our neighbor, Tony Hunt, about the light displays on various streets. Tony suggested we should do a street theme. As the two of them discussed it Tony came up with the idea of pink flamingos with Santa hats. Why? Because no one else has done it. Tom had a friend at work make a prototype that Tony painted. Unfortunately before being able to present the idea to the neighbors Tony developed cancer, and after giving it his best he passed away the summer of 2003.
Every year Tom put up that flamingo in Tony's honor. A couple of years ago when we had the high winds our flamingo took flight. We surmise it broke into pieces and the city crew must have picked it up with the debris.
As autumn of 2013 came Tom started wondering about what we were going to do without a flamingo in honor of Tony. Tom decided it was time, ten years after Tony's passing, to make his idea come to life. He talked with our neighbor, Sherm Jaffee. Sherm, who does a lot of wood work, drew out and painted a flamingo. We invited our neighbors over one Saturday morning and presented the idea. We were not expecting the enthusiastic response that was shown. We were also not prepared for how it touched Tony's wife, Carol, and daughters, Chris and Heather.
The flamingo had to come from the same template and be pink; otherwise it was open to each family's creativity. If you take the time to look at each flamingo they are unique. Neighbor, Nancy Matthews, really built up momentum with her encouragement and ideas. Some neighbors had painting parties. Occasionally we would see a neighbor carrying the template to another neighbor to cut out.
It was fun to watch each individual flamingo go up. Tom and I were out of state for a couple of weeks, and Nancy sent reports as to how many had gone up. When we arrived home and saw the lit up flamingos it was truly amazing to see Tony's idea come to life.
The night of judging the neighbors came over, brought food and drink while we awaited the judges arrival. Nancy and Cindy had the idea of luminaries to tie the street together. Along with some of the neighbors we must have had over a hundred luminaries lining the street when the judges came.
One of the lovely things we experienced as a result of Tony's flamingos was getting to know neighbors better. Although this has always been a great neighborhood, with wonderful neighbors, it definitely brought us together with a common activity. And now, the flamingos are spreading. Several neighbors between Foothill and Hillcrest are sporting their own unique take on Tony's flamingos.
You probably are wondering why Tom felt it was necessary to make the flamingos happen in honor of Tony. Well, there are many stories to tell about Tony, but probably bottom line was his role as a homeowner mentor to Tom. Whenever there was a question Tony was right there to help. Tony truly epitomized what it was to be a neighbor. Now, many neighbors did not know Tony, but it was only right that his being a "neighbor" should blossom into the neighborliness this project has developed.
Thank you for letting me tell you about Tony's flamingos.
Merry Christmas,
Anna Marie Hetman
Also, Nancy Matthews has sent along a 12-slide PowerPoint presentation showing how to make your own giant flamingo. She said the neighborhood made the slide show "in response to the numerous requests we have received from others (as far as Sierra Madre) who want to make their own super-size flamingo. We are happy to help others." Here it is: Make a Pink Flamingo
Handel's Messiah Tonight at Monrovia's First Presbyterian Church
- Brad Haugaard
Mud Clean-Up on Highland Place
While not much mud made it down to Hillcrest, as you can see, quite a bit covered Highland Place.
- Brad Haugaard
Power Outage Affects 694 Monrovia Customers
Southern California Edison is reporting a 694-customer Monrovia power outage caused by rain. From the SCE map it appears to be in northeast Monrovia. It says it has identified the problem and is working to restore power. I am also reading reports of lights out on East Lime. http://goo.gl/kgQQJ7
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Rotary Holding 'Santa Clothes' Event Sunday
This Sunday, Dec. 14, Rotary Club of Monrovia will hold its third annual Santa Clothes event at the Monrovia Kohl's store, from 8 a.m. to noon. The club will take 50 4-to-12-year-old shopping for school clothing, shoes, backpacks, alarm clocks, and - new this year - one small toy. The children are chosen from the client families of Santa Anita Family Services. These are families in crisis and unfortunately, these may be the only Christmas presents some of these children will receive.
Sylvia Domotor, chair for the Santa Clothes event adds: "To make it more fun for the kids, we send the children shopping with Interact (Monrovia High School Rotary Club) students - 'cause adults ain't cool! Each child is allowed $125 in purchases ... and we expect them to use every penny! The event is usually a wild circus; 50 children, 20 Interact students, about 20 Monrovia Rotarians, volunteers from Kaizen Martial Arts and the Monrovia Wells Fargo branch and always helpful Kohl's associates."
- Brad Haugaard
Sylvia Domotor, chair for the Santa Clothes event adds: "To make it more fun for the kids, we send the children shopping with Interact (Monrovia High School Rotary Club) students - 'cause adults ain't cool! Each child is allowed $125 in purchases ... and we expect them to use every penny! The event is usually a wild circus; 50 children, 20 Interact students, about 20 Monrovia Rotarians, volunteers from Kaizen Martial Arts and the Monrovia Wells Fargo branch and always helpful Kohl's associates."
- Brad Haugaard
Lunch at Chili's
Lunch at Chili's on Huntington. Got the $7 lunch special with chicken enchilada soup and a Fresh Mex Bowl with chipotle chicken. Plus an iced tea, $2.59. Both soup and bowl tasty. The Mex Bowl was kinda like those teriyaki rice bowl things but with Mexican ingredients.
- Brad Haugaard
Rain Runoff; Small Power Outage; Maintenance on Dec. 15
~ I checked the area below the Madison Fire on Hillcrest near Highland Place early this morning and saw just a thin and spotty bit of mud on the street. Very minimal so far.
~ Southern California Edison reports a small weather-related outage in Monrovia affecting 21 customers. Although it doesn't give an exact address, it appears from the SCE map that the outage is on Lincoln Place north of Foothill. http://goo.gl/gmyRj8
~ The city reports that to perform maintenance, on Dec. 15 Southern California Edison will cut power from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the west side of Peck Road 105 feet south of Atara Street and at the northwest corner of Peck and Jefferies. http://goo.gl/VlP8O8
- Brad Haugaard
~ Southern California Edison reports a small weather-related outage in Monrovia affecting 21 customers. Although it doesn't give an exact address, it appears from the SCE map that the outage is on Lincoln Place north of Foothill. http://goo.gl/gmyRj8
~ The city reports that to perform maintenance, on Dec. 15 Southern California Edison will cut power from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the west side of Peck Road 105 feet south of Atara Street and at the northwest corner of Peck and Jefferies. http://goo.gl/VlP8O8
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Council to Consider Extending Home Demolition and Construction Moratoriums
The Monrovia City Council will consider extending the two moratoriums it adopted at its last meeting from 45 days to 10 months and 15 days, so they'll expire on November 17, 2015.
The moratoriums prohibit demolition of homes built before 1940 ( http://goo.gl/l4G0sr ) and issuing building permits for new homes. (This second moratorium proposal, by the way, includes an interesting map showing the ages of various homes throughout the city: http://goo.gl/k5z13p )
- Brad Haugaard
The moratoriums prohibit demolition of homes built before 1940 ( http://goo.gl/l4G0sr ) and issuing building permits for new homes. (This second moratorium proposal, by the way, includes an interesting map showing the ages of various homes throughout the city: http://goo.gl/k5z13p )
- Brad Haugaard
Cooperative Christmas on Monrovia's Alta Vista Avenue
The folks on Alta Vista, north of Hillcrest, have really worked together this year on their Christmas decorations. In addition to their signature pink flamingos, folks along the street have set up a strand of blue lights a block long. Very cool! Never seen that done before.
- Brad Haugaard
Magnolia Ave. to Be Closed Below Freeway for Construction
The City of Monrovia reports that Magnolia Avenue will be closed from Evergreen Ave. (the south-side freeway access road) for two blocks south to Genoa St. from December 18 to January 5, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., for electrical construction. Detours will route traffic to Mayflower and Myrtle avenues.
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Fork-Lifting Car Stops Car-Jacking; Biting; Cutting Torch Theft; Shirt Theft; Etc.
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 8-10. - Brad Haugaard]
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 359 service events, resulting in 68 investigations.
Commercial Burglary
December 8 at 6:17 a.m., an officer responded to a construction site in the 1800 block of South Mountain regarding a burglary investigation. Unknown Suspect(s) entered the property by cutting through a lock at a neighboring business. Once inside the lot, the suspect(s) used a blow torch to cut open the steel tool crib and stole the construction company’s tools. The tools from this company were for building the Gold Line yard.
Battery / Child Endangerment – Suspect Arrested
On December 9 at 9:37 a.m., an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 300 block of California. A male and female who have a small child together were involved in a dispute with other family members at the location. As the father was leaving with the child in his arms, he kicked a piece of wood and it struck one of the family members. Officers arrived and detained the father. After investigation, the father was arrested for battery and for child endangerment. Additional factors regarding the care and health of the child have also surfaced that need to be addressed and the Department of Children and Family Services was contacted.
Receiving Stolen Property / Suspicion of Auto Burglary – Suspect Arrested
On December 9 at 2:23 p.m., while officers were on a follow-up response for the above battery and child endangerment incident in the 300 block of California, they were approached by a male victim of an auto burglary. The victim reported that a subject at the location the officers were at was wearing a shirt that had been stolen from his vehicle in the 300 block of East Palm earlier in the day. The officers detained the subject and checked his vehicle. A burglary tool was located and prints taken. Other items were also stolen. The suspect was wearing the victim’s shirt; he was arrested and charged with receiving stolen property.
Hazardous Fuel Spill
On December 9 at 5:50 p.m., a fuel truck was leaking a trail of diesel fuel, causing several vehicles to lose traction in the area of Central and Myrtle. The truck had exited from the 210 Freeway and had trailed fuel from the freeway down the off ramp. An absorbent material was applied and a street sweeper removed the remaining material from the street.
Attempt Grand Theft Auto / Car-Jacking / Criminal Threats / Possible Gang Enhancement – Suspect Arrested
December 10 at 12:54 p.m., dispatch received a call reporting a male subject attempting to steal a car at a business in the 3000 block of South Peck. Officers responded, assisted by the Foothill Air Support Team helicopter, and located the suspect hiding in a portable office. The suspect had entered the victim's vehicle and was successful in starting the vehicle. When he began to move the vehicle, the owner of the vehicle utilized a commercial fork lift to raise the vehicle so the suspect could no longer move it. Angered, the suspect threatened the victim. He claimed a local gang and threatened they would come back and kill him. The suspect has numerous gang tattoos on his head, neck and body. The suspect was arrested and a bail enhancement is being sought, due to the nature of the threat and the gang association.
Domestic Violence
December 10 at 1:20 p.m., a male and female who have a child in common were riding on a bus, heading east toward Azusa. The male was angry at the female for leaving the welfare office before they could accomplish what they went in for, and he bit her several times and began choking her. Other passengers on the bus intervened, and the male suspect then assaulted an older Good Samaritan who was trying to help the victim. The suspect exited the bus and fled. The suspect’s identity is known and a wanted person’s entry was made into the law enforcement system. The investigation is continuing.
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 359 service events, resulting in 68 investigations.
Commercial Burglary
December 8 at 6:17 a.m., an officer responded to a construction site in the 1800 block of South Mountain regarding a burglary investigation. Unknown Suspect(s) entered the property by cutting through a lock at a neighboring business. Once inside the lot, the suspect(s) used a blow torch to cut open the steel tool crib and stole the construction company’s tools. The tools from this company were for building the Gold Line yard.
Battery / Child Endangerment – Suspect Arrested
On December 9 at 9:37 a.m., an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 300 block of California. A male and female who have a small child together were involved in a dispute with other family members at the location. As the father was leaving with the child in his arms, he kicked a piece of wood and it struck one of the family members. Officers arrived and detained the father. After investigation, the father was arrested for battery and for child endangerment. Additional factors regarding the care and health of the child have also surfaced that need to be addressed and the Department of Children and Family Services was contacted.
Receiving Stolen Property / Suspicion of Auto Burglary – Suspect Arrested
On December 9 at 2:23 p.m., while officers were on a follow-up response for the above battery and child endangerment incident in the 300 block of California, they were approached by a male victim of an auto burglary. The victim reported that a subject at the location the officers were at was wearing a shirt that had been stolen from his vehicle in the 300 block of East Palm earlier in the day. The officers detained the subject and checked his vehicle. A burglary tool was located and prints taken. Other items were also stolen. The suspect was wearing the victim’s shirt; he was arrested and charged with receiving stolen property.
Hazardous Fuel Spill
On December 9 at 5:50 p.m., a fuel truck was leaking a trail of diesel fuel, causing several vehicles to lose traction in the area of Central and Myrtle. The truck had exited from the 210 Freeway and had trailed fuel from the freeway down the off ramp. An absorbent material was applied and a street sweeper removed the remaining material from the street.
Attempt Grand Theft Auto / Car-Jacking / Criminal Threats / Possible Gang Enhancement – Suspect Arrested
December 10 at 12:54 p.m., dispatch received a call reporting a male subject attempting to steal a car at a business in the 3000 block of South Peck. Officers responded, assisted by the Foothill Air Support Team helicopter, and located the suspect hiding in a portable office. The suspect had entered the victim's vehicle and was successful in starting the vehicle. When he began to move the vehicle, the owner of the vehicle utilized a commercial fork lift to raise the vehicle so the suspect could no longer move it. Angered, the suspect threatened the victim. He claimed a local gang and threatened they would come back and kill him. The suspect has numerous gang tattoos on his head, neck and body. The suspect was arrested and a bail enhancement is being sought, due to the nature of the threat and the gang association.
Domestic Violence
December 10 at 1:20 p.m., a male and female who have a child in common were riding on a bus, heading east toward Azusa. The male was angry at the female for leaving the welfare office before they could accomplish what they went in for, and he bit her several times and began choking her. Other passengers on the bus intervened, and the male suspect then assaulted an older Good Samaritan who was trying to help the victim. The suspect exited the bus and fled. The suspect’s identity is known and a wanted person’s entry was made into the law enforcement system. The investigation is continuing.
Flash Flood Preparation Tips from Monrovia Fire Department
The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch for all LA County burn areas for tonight through Friday evening for Los Angeles County. The storm has the potential to produce 2 to 4 inches of rain in the Foothills with the possibility of hourly rainfall between one half and one inch. Additionally, L.A. County Public Works issued a Phase 1 Alert (the first of the three levels that can be issued) for the Madison Fire Area.
Gravel bags are available to Monrovia residents impacted by the Madison Fire. Residents are encouraged to pick-up gravel bags at the Public Works Office at 600 S. Mountain Avenue, Monday - Thursday 7:00 am until 5:30 pm (please note - Thursday 12/11 the Public Works office will be closed at noon) however the Monrovia Fire Station 101 at 141 E. Lemon Avenue will be open after hours and Friday-Saturday-Sunday. Gravel to fill the bags is available at two locations, 443 Highland Place and 839 Crescent Drive in Monrovia. Residents will need eye protection, gloves and a shovel to scoop gravel into the bags.
Due to the Flash Flood warning for the Madison Fire Area, Athens has rescheduled the Friday solid waste collection to Saturday, December 13. Please remember to keep your streets cleared which includes removing vehicles, trash bins and any other obstructions from the public streets in preparation. Athens will be contacting each customer to notify them. Athens can be reached at (888) 336-6100.
For more information and tips on how to prepare go to our website at http://www.cityofmonrovia.org or contact Public Works at (626) 932-5575 or email pwcomments@ci.monrovia.ca.us
Source: Monrovia Fire Department press release
- Brad Haugaard
Gravel bags are available to Monrovia residents impacted by the Madison Fire. Residents are encouraged to pick-up gravel bags at the Public Works Office at 600 S. Mountain Avenue, Monday - Thursday 7:00 am until 5:30 pm (please note - Thursday 12/11 the Public Works office will be closed at noon) however the Monrovia Fire Station 101 at 141 E. Lemon Avenue will be open after hours and Friday-Saturday-Sunday. Gravel to fill the bags is available at two locations, 443 Highland Place and 839 Crescent Drive in Monrovia. Residents will need eye protection, gloves and a shovel to scoop gravel into the bags.
Due to the Flash Flood warning for the Madison Fire Area, Athens has rescheduled the Friday solid waste collection to Saturday, December 13. Please remember to keep your streets cleared which includes removing vehicles, trash bins and any other obstructions from the public streets in preparation. Athens will be contacting each customer to notify them. Athens can be reached at (888) 336-6100.
For more information and tips on how to prepare go to our website at http://www.cityofmonrovia.org or contact Public Works at (626) 932-5575 or email pwcomments@ci.monrovia.ca.us
Source: Monrovia Fire Department press release
- Brad Haugaard
Christmas Eve Service at St. Luke's Episcopal Church
Christmas Eve service at St. Luke's Episcopal Church features the choir performing a 7:30 p.m. program of Anthems and Carols, including "Fantasia on Christmas Carols" by Ralph Vaughan Williams with baritone David Kress, who also performs with the Los Angeles Master Chorale. At 8 p.m. a Holy Eucharist featuring a lighthearted yuletide play about the keeper of the inn where Christ was born. 122 S. California at Foothill. Source: Press release
Citrus Ranks High in Preparing Students in Tech Jobs
Citrus College, which serves Monrovia, has been ranked among the top 125 of 1,600 participating U.S. colleges and universities in preparing students for technology jobs. Victory Media, specializing in higher education and employment recruitment, named the school a STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) Jobs Approved College for 2015. Citrus is the only California community college on the list. The company ranked institutions based on public data and responses to questions concerning three indicators of success: STEM job alignment, STEM job placement, and diversity in STEM programs.
Source: Citrus press release
- Brad Haugaard
Source: Citrus press release
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Rain Report: Possible Flash Floods
The National Weather Service is again warning of possible flash floods below burn areas, such as in Monrovia: http://goo.gl/O7DeFZ . Also, the NWS says: Rainfall totals with this system from Thursday afternoon through Friday night are expected to range from 1 to 2 inches for coastal and valley locations and 2 to 4 inches across the foothills and mountains." http://goo.gl/YIYyjb
The prediction (at the moment) is 10% chance of rain this Thursday, Dec. 11, and 90% Friday. http://goo.gl/qHZq84
- Brad Haugaard
The prediction (at the moment) is 10% chance of rain this Thursday, Dec. 11, and 90% Friday. http://goo.gl/qHZq84
- Brad Haugaard
Christmas Lights in Monrovia
I saw this beautiful tree on Lemon just west of Magnolia.
- Brad Haugaard
Gold Line 80% Done; Art Tiles About Ready to Install at Monrovia Station
Cha-Rie Tang discusses the tiles that will be installed at the Monrovia station.
The Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension Construction Authority reports that the historically-inspired tiles for the Monrovia Metro station should be ready to be installed at the Monrovia station in early 2015, as will the art for all the new Gold Line stations.
The 11.5-mile Foothill Gold Line from Pasadena to Azusa is now more than 80% complete. All 28 miles of light rail track are now installed; all 14 at-grade crossings are complete; and the project’s 24 bridge structures are finished. Last month, the final traction power substation was installed and all ten substations are being prepared for service. These substations convert the electricity provided by the local utility company into the type needed to power the Overhead Catenary System, which then delivers power to the trains.
Source: Press release
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Public Works Director Out - Is It About Halloween Costumes?
Public Works Director Carl Hassel is no longer working for Monrovia.
Yesterday I got an email from an anonymous and quite upset person who said he (or she - I don't know which) is a city employee. This person said Hassel has been let go because he "did not encourage Public Works Staff to compete in the City staff Halloween Costume Contest".
This is a personnel issue and by law the city is very limited in what it can say, but still I checked and confirmed that Hassel is no longer working for the city and Community Services Director Tina Cherry is now, as my anonymous source said, the acting public works director.
Here is what Human Resources and Risk Management Division Manager Danielle Tellez wrote back:
- Brad Haugaard
Yesterday I got an email from an anonymous and quite upset person who said he (or she - I don't know which) is a city employee. This person said Hassel has been let go because he "did not encourage Public Works Staff to compete in the City staff Halloween Costume Contest".
This is a personnel issue and by law the city is very limited in what it can say, but still I checked and confirmed that Hassel is no longer working for the city and Community Services Director Tina Cherry is now, as my anonymous source said, the acting public works director.
Here is what Human Resources and Risk Management Division Manager Danielle Tellez wrote back:
Mr. Hassel is no longer employed by the City of Monrovia as the Public Works Director effective Monday, December 8, 2014.UPDATE: City Manager Oliver Chi denies that a Halloween party had anything to do with it: http://goo.gl/Tvbytt
Ms. Tina Cherry was appointed to an interim position of Acting Public Works Director effective Tuesday, December 9, 2014. In the interim, all public works projects are proceeding without interruption. There will be no disruption in public services.
City staff was notified first thing the morning of Tuesday, December 9, 2014 of the staffing change. As you acknowledged below [in my email], this is a personnel matter and the City cannot comment on the reasons for separation.
- Brad Haugaard
Gold Line Construction Authority Now Testing Track
The test train that rolled in to Monrovia yesterday will continue on today from California Avenue in Monrovia to the San Gabriel River Bridge in Irwindale.
Over the next two weeks, the test train will be used to test clearances at stations and with the Overhead Catenary System (OCS), wheel/rail interface, rail switches, and more. This phase of testing will also include live wire testing of the OCS system within the segment of the line where power is now energized.
"This is just the beginning of several months of testing ahead that will ultimately test every aspect of the light rail line and its safety and communications systems," said Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority CEO Habib Balian. "We will continue testing from now until substantial completion next September, when we will be turning the line over to Metro for pre-revenue service."
Source: press release
- Brad Haugaard
Over the next two weeks, the test train will be used to test clearances at stations and with the Overhead Catenary System (OCS), wheel/rail interface, rail switches, and more. This phase of testing will also include live wire testing of the OCS system within the segment of the line where power is now energized.
"This is just the beginning of several months of testing ahead that will ultimately test every aspect of the light rail line and its safety and communications systems," said Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority CEO Habib Balian. "We will continue testing from now until substantial completion next September, when we will be turning the line over to Metro for pre-revenue service."
Source: press release
- Brad Haugaard
100% Chance of Rain | Robot Competition at Monrovia High | Brush Clearing Scam
~ Rain coming! 20% chance on Thursday; 100% chance of heavy rain on Friday; 20% chance on Saturday: http://goo.gl/12GO8M
Also, From National Weather Service: 2 to 4 inches across the Foothills and mountains between Thursday and Friday night. "Since this storm system has the potential for greater dynamics and instability...as compared to last week's system...rainfall rates around one half inch per hour will be possible with the front." Also, "Isolated thunderstorms...potentially producing localized rainfall rates in excess of one half inch per hour. Rainfall rates of this intensity could bring a threat of flash flooding along with mud and debris flows in and near recent burn areas. http://goo.gl/mlnquf
~ Robot competition at Monrovia High. http://goo.gl/vKZkJG
~ If a company comes to your door saying it is working on behalf of the Monrovia Fire Department to clear brush around your house, that's not true. Details: http://goo.gl/BMZE5Q
- Brad Haugaard
Also, From National Weather Service: 2 to 4 inches across the Foothills and mountains between Thursday and Friday night. "Since this storm system has the potential for greater dynamics and instability...as compared to last week's system...rainfall rates around one half inch per hour will be possible with the front." Also, "Isolated thunderstorms...potentially producing localized rainfall rates in excess of one half inch per hour. Rainfall rates of this intensity could bring a threat of flash flooding along with mud and debris flows in and near recent burn areas. http://goo.gl/mlnquf
~ Robot competition at Monrovia High. http://goo.gl/vKZkJG
~ If a company comes to your door saying it is working on behalf of the Monrovia Fire Department to clear brush around your house, that's not true. Details: http://goo.gl/BMZE5Q
- Brad Haugaard
First Train Comes into Monrovia on Gold Line Tracks
"At dawn, a light rail vehicle from Metro’s fleet entered into the Foothill Gold Line project jurisdiction for the first time. The vehicle, a $4 million AnsaldoBreda P2250 weighing over 100,000 pounds, was outfitted with specialized gear to test clearances, wheel/rail interface, rail switches, and the Overhead Catenary System. The testing will take place over the next two weeks between Arcadia and Irwindale and include live wire testing between California Ave in Monrovia and the San Gabriel River Bridge in Irwindale, where power is now energized."
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Door-Busting Burglary; Victim Recovers Stolen Bike; Fake ID; Etc.
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 4-7. - Brad Haugaard]
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Residential Burglary – Suspect Arrested
December 4 at 6:30 a.m., officers responded to a residence in the 400 block of West Duarte Road on the report of a burglary in progress. The suspect forced entry into the victim's home by kicking the front door open. The victim locked his bedroom door and went out to his balcony, where he immediately called the police from his cell phone. The suspect then kicked open the bedroom door and entered the bedroom closet to search through it, as the victim watched through the sliding glass door. Officers arrived and found the suspect in the victim's kitchen. The suspect was arrested for burglary and taken into custody.
Traffic Collision
December 4 at 11:59 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 400 block of South Magnolia. A driver crashed into a parked car and then fled the scene. The driver was found several blocks away and taken to a hospital for treatment. A blood sample was drawn to support a DUI investigation. No arrests were made pending the results of the blood test.
Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 5 at 8:15 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 400 block of West Duarte Road when he observed a male subject he knew had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. A warrant check confirmed the subject had a $50,000.00 warrant for his arrest. The officer contacted the subject, confirmed the warrant and the subject was arrested.
Commercial Burglary – Suspect Arrested
December 6 at 2:47 p.m., a business in the 600 block of West Huntington called police to report a male subject attempting to make a purchase using a fake California driver's license with one of their customer's names on it. Officers arrived and detained the suspect. He was positively identified by his true California driver's license. The suspect was arrested for fraud and commercial burglary.
Grand Theft
December 8 at 3:30 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of Oaks called police to report a grand theft. The resident woke to a loud noise coming from outside his residence. He went outside and found his garage door open. He looked in and saw his mountain bike was missing. He ran down his driveway and saw a male suspect riding away on his bike. The victim went after the suspect in his vehicle. The suspect saw he was being chased, jumped off the bike and fled through side yards. The victim recovered his property, returned home and called police. Officers responded and searched the area on foot and by vehicle, but the suspect was not located.
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Residential Burglary – Suspect Arrested
December 4 at 6:30 a.m., officers responded to a residence in the 400 block of West Duarte Road on the report of a burglary in progress. The suspect forced entry into the victim's home by kicking the front door open. The victim locked his bedroom door and went out to his balcony, where he immediately called the police from his cell phone. The suspect then kicked open the bedroom door and entered the bedroom closet to search through it, as the victim watched through the sliding glass door. Officers arrived and found the suspect in the victim's kitchen. The suspect was arrested for burglary and taken into custody.
Traffic Collision
December 4 at 11:59 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 400 block of South Magnolia. A driver crashed into a parked car and then fled the scene. The driver was found several blocks away and taken to a hospital for treatment. A blood sample was drawn to support a DUI investigation. No arrests were made pending the results of the blood test.
Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 5 at 8:15 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 400 block of West Duarte Road when he observed a male subject he knew had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. A warrant check confirmed the subject had a $50,000.00 warrant for his arrest. The officer contacted the subject, confirmed the warrant and the subject was arrested.
Commercial Burglary – Suspect Arrested
December 6 at 2:47 p.m., a business in the 600 block of West Huntington called police to report a male subject attempting to make a purchase using a fake California driver's license with one of their customer's names on it. Officers arrived and detained the suspect. He was positively identified by his true California driver's license. The suspect was arrested for fraud and commercial burglary.
Grand Theft
December 8 at 3:30 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of Oaks called police to report a grand theft. The resident woke to a loud noise coming from outside his residence. He went outside and found his garage door open. He looked in and saw his mountain bike was missing. He ran down his driveway and saw a male suspect riding away on his bike. The victim went after the suspect in his vehicle. The suspect saw he was being chased, jumped off the bike and fled through side yards. The victim recovered his property, returned home and called police. Officers responded and searched the area on foot and by vehicle, but the suspect was not located.
Citrus College Fined for Violating Student's Free Speech
Citrus College, which serves Monrovia, will have to pay $110,000 to a student for violating his First Amendment right to free speech by telling him he could not collect signatures outside of the college's designated "free speech" zone. This is the second time Citrus has lost a free-speech zone lawsuit. The previous time it had to pay $24,500. http://goo.gl/1EH51K
Comment: Twice, Citrus? Are citizens' constitutional rights so dangerous that you are willing to repeatedly pay fines to restrict them?
- Brad Haugaard
Comment: Twice, Citrus? Are citizens' constitutional rights so dangerous that you are willing to repeatedly pay fines to restrict them?
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Schools: New Stagecraft Class; Finances Okay
At its Dec. 10 meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/zvf8qA ) the Monrovia School Board will, among other things, consider ...
- offering a course in Stagecraft and Design to high school students. http://goo.gl/mp6z4X
- certifying, according to state law, that the district can meet its financial obligations for the current year and following two years. And, yup, the staff report says it can. http://goo.gl/7YJldA
- Brad Haugaard
- offering a course in Stagecraft and Design to high school students. http://goo.gl/mp6z4X
- certifying, according to state law, that the district can meet its financial obligations for the current year and following two years. And, yup, the staff report says it can. http://goo.gl/7YJldA
- Brad Haugaard
French Market Saturday
Dec. 6, the Monrovia French Market's Winter Wonderland Holiday Show - nearly 50 specialty vendors. 122 S. California Ave. http://goo.gl/rN3sBX
21 Bistro Being Acquired by Mooncat
Apparently the little restaurant, 21 Bistro, on the south side of Lime just east of Myrtle, is being acquired by the Japanese restaurant, Mooncat, which is right next-door. This sign is in the window. Comment: Too bad, I always liked 21 Bistro.
- Brad Haugaard
Lunch at Mooncat
Lunch at Mooncat, south side of Lime just east of Myrtle. Japanese food. Got the sushi and tempura bento box ($12) and an iced oolong tea ($3.50). Came with miso soup and rice. Very nice.
- Brad Haugaard
Ridgeside Entrance to Monrovia Hillside Preserve Reopened
The Ridgeside Drive entry point to the Monrovia Hillside Wilderness Preserve, which was locked briefly, has been reopened.
Opinion: Thank you very much to Director of Community Services Tina Cherry, City Manager Oliver Chi and anybody else who was involved in reconsidering this decision (which I fussed about here: http://goo.gl/jZf1b2 ).
Opinion: Thank you very much to Director of Community Services Tina Cherry, City Manager Oliver Chi and anybody else who was involved in reconsidering this decision (which I fussed about here: http://goo.gl/jZf1b2 ).
- Brad Haugaard
Roof Added to Historic Monrovia Fountain
The roof has just been replaced on the historic drinking fountain that had to be rebuilt after a car accident destroyed it. The fountain is at the southeast corner of Library Park. The roof tiles, however, still need to be replaced.
Jim Wigton, of the Monrovia Historic Preservation Group, writes: "The replacement Spanish tiles have not yet been delivered to Public Works (we are getting them from Architectural Detail in Pasadena).. When they are, we will be re-installing them on the roof so that the fountain will look almost exactly the same as before the accident."
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Lights Its Christmas Tree
After a song by Centre Stage students about wanting a hippopotamus for Christmas, and opening remarks by Mayor Mary Ann Lutz, children from the Canyon Early Learning Center lit the Monrovia Christmas tree in Library Park.
- Brad Haugaard
Santa's Monrovia Schedule
This year, Monrovia will continue its tradition of celebrating the Christmas season by touring Santa Claus around city streets on top of a fire engine. Escorted by a police car and a decorated public works sleigh, Santa will provide candy canes to the public. City employees will, again, volunteer their time to help make the program fun and successful.
Last year’s event was a great success! This year’s Santa Tour will be another exciting and fun time for members of our community when they see Santa visiting their neighborhoods. Everyone is encouraged to come out and wave to Santa.
Monday, Dec. 15 – will tour city streets south of Huntington, west of Myrtle to Fifth, north of southern city boundaries.
Tuesday, Dec. 16 – will tour city streets east of Myrtle, north of Foothill.
Wednesday, Dec. 17 – will tour city streets west of Myrtle, north of Foothill.
Thursday, Dec. 18 – will tour city streets east of Myrtle, south of Foothill, north of Duarte Road, west of east city boundaries.
Friday, Dec. 19 – will tour city streets west of Myrtle, south of Foothill, north of Huntington to Mayflower, between Myrtle and Fifth.
Assembly Time: 5:00 p.m. assembly at the City Hall parking lot, 415 S. Ivy, Monrovia, CA 91016
Tour Hours: 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
The police car will be driven by volunteer police officers who will lead the procession using their red lights and siren. Christmas carols will be played over the police car’s P.A. system.
The fire engine will be driven by volunteer firefighters, who will follow the police car. Santa will ride on top of the fire engine with spotlights shining on him as he wishes everyone a merry Christmas. The fire engine will be decorated with hundreds of Christmas lights.
The public works truck will be driven by volunteer public works employees. Our reindeer sleigh, bright with over 1500 Christmas lights, will play Christmas carols. Community members are welcome to ride with city employees and their families on back of the truck and trailer during the tour. Space is limited and participation is first come first served. Parents are reminded that children must be accompanied by an adult.
To all Monrovians: Venture outside, welcome Santa, and enjoy his candy canes! MERRY CHRISTMAS to all and have a safe holiday season.
Source: Monrovia Police press release
- Brad Haugaard
Shop Monrovia Selfie Contest
Post a "selfie" (picture of yourself) while dining, shopping or doing business in Monrovia and you could win a prize in the Shop Monrovia Month Contest. This week's prize is a $25 gift certificate to The Dollmakers' Kattywompus. Post on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram with the hashtag #ShopMonroviaSelfie.
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Mental Evaluation; Stolen Bike Arrest; DUI; Etc.
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 1-3. - Brad Haugaard]
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 323 service events, resulting in 51 investigations.
Traffic Collision
On December 1 at 12:11 p.m., officers responded to a traffic collision in the area of California and Lemon. An elderly female failed to stop for the stop sign at the intersection and was struck by a motorist traveling south on California. The victim in the other vehicle sustained minor redness and complained of pain and dizziness. He was taken to a hospital for treatment.
Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance / Driving Under the Influence of Drugs / Mental Evaluation – Suspect Arrested
On December 2 at 10:16 a.m., officers were dispatched to the corner of Lime and Ivy, where a male subject had driven his car on the wrong side of the street, exited his car, and began yelling, frantically, that someone was shooting at him and trying to kill him. He fell over the curb, then stood up and tried to open the doors to the Police Department Emergency Operations Center. When he could not get the doors open, he ran to the front of City Hall and entered, still yelling that someone was trying to kill him. He was detained by officers. He was arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance and for driving under the influence of drugs. Later in the evening at 7:53 p.m., the jailer requested the subject be reevaluated for mental issues. After talking to the subject and having him checked by Monrovia Fire Department paramedics, it was determined that the subject fit the criteria for a mental evaluation. The subject was taken to a hospital, where he was held for a 72 hour mental evaluation.
Attempt Residential Burglary / Hot Prowl
On December 2 at 6:54 p.m., a resident in the 800 block of West Colorado called police to report an attempt burglary. The resident woke up upon hearing noises at the door. A check of the door revealed the framing around the door was broken as if someone tried to break into the home. The investigation is continuing.
Grand Theft Bicycle – Suspect Arrested
On December 4 at 3:58 a.m., a bicycle was reported stolen from the front of a business in the 400 block of West Foothill. The bicycle is a higher-value mountain bike. The bicycle was locked and secured to a concrete trash receptacle. As patrol units were searching the area for the bike, an officer saw a male subject riding the stolen bike in the 1200 block of Encino. The suspect rode the bike up the driveway of a residence. As the officer pulled up to the residence, he saw the suspect walking out from the side of the garage. The suspect was arrested and the stolen bicycle was recovered.
Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
On December 4 at 5:19 a.m., officers were dispatched to a traffic collision in the 1200 block of South Alta Vista. A vehicle had collided into a parked car. Upon investigation, the driver was determined to be driving under the influence and was arrested.
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 323 service events, resulting in 51 investigations.
Traffic Collision
On December 1 at 12:11 p.m., officers responded to a traffic collision in the area of California and Lemon. An elderly female failed to stop for the stop sign at the intersection and was struck by a motorist traveling south on California. The victim in the other vehicle sustained minor redness and complained of pain and dizziness. He was taken to a hospital for treatment.
Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance / Driving Under the Influence of Drugs / Mental Evaluation – Suspect Arrested
On December 2 at 10:16 a.m., officers were dispatched to the corner of Lime and Ivy, where a male subject had driven his car on the wrong side of the street, exited his car, and began yelling, frantically, that someone was shooting at him and trying to kill him. He fell over the curb, then stood up and tried to open the doors to the Police Department Emergency Operations Center. When he could not get the doors open, he ran to the front of City Hall and entered, still yelling that someone was trying to kill him. He was detained by officers. He was arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance and for driving under the influence of drugs. Later in the evening at 7:53 p.m., the jailer requested the subject be reevaluated for mental issues. After talking to the subject and having him checked by Monrovia Fire Department paramedics, it was determined that the subject fit the criteria for a mental evaluation. The subject was taken to a hospital, where he was held for a 72 hour mental evaluation.
Attempt Residential Burglary / Hot Prowl
On December 2 at 6:54 p.m., a resident in the 800 block of West Colorado called police to report an attempt burglary. The resident woke up upon hearing noises at the door. A check of the door revealed the framing around the door was broken as if someone tried to break into the home. The investigation is continuing.
Grand Theft Bicycle – Suspect Arrested
On December 4 at 3:58 a.m., a bicycle was reported stolen from the front of a business in the 400 block of West Foothill. The bicycle is a higher-value mountain bike. The bicycle was locked and secured to a concrete trash receptacle. As patrol units were searching the area for the bike, an officer saw a male subject riding the stolen bike in the 1200 block of Encino. The suspect rode the bike up the driveway of a residence. As the officer pulled up to the residence, he saw the suspect walking out from the side of the garage. The suspect was arrested and the stolen bicycle was recovered.
Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
On December 4 at 5:19 a.m., officers were dispatched to a traffic collision in the 1200 block of South Alta Vista. A vehicle had collided into a parked car. Upon investigation, the driver was determined to be driving under the influence and was arrested.
Monrovia's AeroVironment Wins Army Contract
Monrovia's AeroVironment announced today that it has won a $4.3 million cost-plus fixed-fee award and a $7.1 million option for Switchblade tactical missile system support services from the United States Army. http://goo.gl/WtnpbJ
Share Home Grown Produce in Library Park
The last Produce in the Park of the year this Saturday, Dec. 6 from 9-11 a.m. at the corner of Lime and Myrtle in Library Park. Share home-grown produce.
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Santa Paws at Wonder Dog Ranch Today
Santa Paws will be at Wonder Dog Ranch (220 Taylor Street, Monrovia) today Dec. 3, 2014 for photos with your dog from 4-8 p.m. Free event, but contributions to the Pet Food Bank of the Foothill Unity Center welcome - unopened dog or cat food, or cash. You'll get one digital copy of a great picture of your dog with Santa. Please bring dogs on a short leash.
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Seidner’s Collision Centers Presents Cars to Veterans
Seidner’s Collision Centers along with the Auto Club of Southern California and California Casualty presented two vehicles to local military veterans enrolled in Citrus College Veterans Success Program through the National Auto Body Council, Recycled Rides program. Citrus serves the Monrovia area.
Veteran Ashley Bozeman, U.S. Navy, got a a 2013 Kia Rio donated by the Auto Club, and Allan Weaver, U.S. Army, got a 2010 Toyota Camry, donated by California Casualty.
Ashley served in the Navy from 2007-2011 aboard the USS Ronald Reagan. In Japan she was exposed to radiation and has suffered many illnesses related to the exposure. Later she was sent to the Persian Gulf during the Iraq invasion where she again was injured. Ashley is taking courses at Citrus College towards her AS degree and holds a 3.7 GPA. She also volunteers with many non-profits in the area and helps tutor veterans.
Allan served in the Army for over 7 years, joining right after 9-11. During his deployment in Iraq, Allan was injured. After returning home in 2008, he struggled to find a job and eventually became homeless. Six years later Allan remarried, has a 2 year old son and is pursuing a degree in business at Citrus College. Allan lends a hand to the elderly or disabled with home and car repairs.
- Brad Haugaard
Veteran Ashley Bozeman, U.S. Navy, got a a 2013 Kia Rio donated by the Auto Club, and Allan Weaver, U.S. Army, got a 2010 Toyota Camry, donated by California Casualty.
Ashley served in the Navy from 2007-2011 aboard the USS Ronald Reagan. In Japan she was exposed to radiation and has suffered many illnesses related to the exposure. Later she was sent to the Persian Gulf during the Iraq invasion where she again was injured. Ashley is taking courses at Citrus College towards her AS degree and holds a 3.7 GPA. She also volunteers with many non-profits in the area and helps tutor veterans.
Allan served in the Army for over 7 years, joining right after 9-11. During his deployment in Iraq, Allan was injured. After returning home in 2008, he struggled to find a job and eventually became homeless. Six years later Allan remarried, has a 2 year old son and is pursuing a degree in business at Citrus College. Allan lends a hand to the elderly or disabled with home and car repairs.
- Brad Haugaard
Santa Story Time at Monrovia Library
Children's story time with Santa at the Monrovia Public Library on Wednesday, Dec. 3 at 6 p.m. Stories, film, snacks, crafts and Santa. http://goo.gl/M22b6r
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Stock in Monrovia's AeroVironment Tumbles
The stock of Monrovia's drone maker, AeroVironment, has been having a rough time since it released disappointing financial results for its second quarter. The stock is down from about $30.65 on Nov. 25 to $26.32 today. http://goo.gl/OsBJj4
- Brad Haugaard
A Hansel and Gretel Not for Young Children
Hansel and Gretel by Opera Animata, Dec. 12, 13, 8 p.m. at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 122 N. California Ave. An interactive operatic version of Hansel and Gretel. Audiences will travel along with the lost children as they wander the enchanted forest and encounter the gingerbread house of the evil witch! (Not for very young children.) $20, students/seniors $16, children $10. Tickets at OperaAnimata.TicketLeap.com or at the door.
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: SUV vs Utility Pole; Skillet vs Husband; Vehicle Burglaries; Etc.
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for November 24-30. - Brad Haugaard]
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Traffic Collision
On November 25 at 1:31 p.m., police received a call reporting a possible rollover traffic collision which impacted a utility pole in the 800 block of East Huntington. Officers arrived and found the female driver of an SUV still in the vehicle and she appeared injured. She was treated by Monrovia Fire Department paramedics and Southern California Edison was called out to attend to the damaged utility pole. Wires from the pole struck a parked vehicle and caused minor damage. The driver was taken to a hospital for medical evaluation. The officer completed a DMV driver reevaluation form.
Vehicle Burglary
On November 26 at 10:06 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 1000 block of Royal Oaks on the report of a vehicle burglary. Unknown suspect(s) smashed the window of a vehicle parked inside an apartment complex sometime overnight. The suspect(s) stole a backpack containing a laptop computer. The investigation is continuing.
Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
On November 26 at 12:30 p.m., an officer responded to a residence in the 1100 block of Royal Oaks on a domestic violence incident. A married couple was involved in a heated argument that escalated. The wife struck her husband on the head with a cast iron skillet and threw a flashlight at his face, causing lacerations. The husband was treated at the scene by Monrovia paramedics, but he declined to be taken to a hospital. The wife was arrested for spousal abuse.
Felony Vandalism
On November 27 at 7:59 a.m., a vehicle was reported vandalized in the area of Canyon and Colorado. The victim said his vehicle was parked on the street and unknown suspect(s) broke out his rear window and driver's side window. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
On November 27 at 8:14 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 600 block of West Foothill regarding a vehicle burglary. The victim parked and locked his vehicle in the rear carport of his complex. Overnight, unknown suspect(s) smashed the driver's side rear window to gain entry. The suspect(s) stole an iPod from the center console cup holder and ransacked the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
On November 27 at 11:38 a.m., an officer responded to the 200 block of South Violet regarding a vehicle burglary. The victim parked and locked their vehicle in the rear carport. The suspect(s) smashed the driver's side rear door window to gain entry and took a backpack that was left in the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.
Stolen Vehicle
On November 28 at 11:32 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the area of Bella Vista and Alta Vista regarding a stolen vehicle. The victim parked his vehicle at the location around midnight. When he returned to the vehicle the next day, he discovered the vehicle missing and reported it stolen to police. The vehicle is a 1989 Toyota Camry. The investigation is continuing.
Outstanding Warrants – Suspect Arrested
On November 28 at 1:00 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 100 block of West Lemon when he saw a known subject walking in the area. The officer had prior knowledge that the subject had outstanding warrants for his arrest. The officer contacted the subject and confirmed the warrants. He then arrested the subject and took him into custody, where he remained pending his court appearance date.
Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
On November 28 at 3:37 p.m., Special Enforcement Team officers were on patrol in the area of Fifth and Huntington, when they stopped a motorist for a vehicle code violation. Upon contacting the driver, they discovered she had two outstanding no-bail warrants for her arrest. The driver gave verbal consent for the officers to search her vehicle. The officers located heroin and drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle. The driver was arrested and taken into custody. The driver was also found to have methamphetamine concealed in her clothing.
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Traffic Collision
On November 25 at 1:31 p.m., police received a call reporting a possible rollover traffic collision which impacted a utility pole in the 800 block of East Huntington. Officers arrived and found the female driver of an SUV still in the vehicle and she appeared injured. She was treated by Monrovia Fire Department paramedics and Southern California Edison was called out to attend to the damaged utility pole. Wires from the pole struck a parked vehicle and caused minor damage. The driver was taken to a hospital for medical evaluation. The officer completed a DMV driver reevaluation form.
Vehicle Burglary
On November 26 at 10:06 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 1000 block of Royal Oaks on the report of a vehicle burglary. Unknown suspect(s) smashed the window of a vehicle parked inside an apartment complex sometime overnight. The suspect(s) stole a backpack containing a laptop computer. The investigation is continuing.
Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
On November 26 at 12:30 p.m., an officer responded to a residence in the 1100 block of Royal Oaks on a domestic violence incident. A married couple was involved in a heated argument that escalated. The wife struck her husband on the head with a cast iron skillet and threw a flashlight at his face, causing lacerations. The husband was treated at the scene by Monrovia paramedics, but he declined to be taken to a hospital. The wife was arrested for spousal abuse.
Felony Vandalism
On November 27 at 7:59 a.m., a vehicle was reported vandalized in the area of Canyon and Colorado. The victim said his vehicle was parked on the street and unknown suspect(s) broke out his rear window and driver's side window. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
On November 27 at 8:14 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 600 block of West Foothill regarding a vehicle burglary. The victim parked and locked his vehicle in the rear carport of his complex. Overnight, unknown suspect(s) smashed the driver's side rear window to gain entry. The suspect(s) stole an iPod from the center console cup holder and ransacked the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
On November 27 at 11:38 a.m., an officer responded to the 200 block of South Violet regarding a vehicle burglary. The victim parked and locked their vehicle in the rear carport. The suspect(s) smashed the driver's side rear door window to gain entry and took a backpack that was left in the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.
Stolen Vehicle
On November 28 at 11:32 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the area of Bella Vista and Alta Vista regarding a stolen vehicle. The victim parked his vehicle at the location around midnight. When he returned to the vehicle the next day, he discovered the vehicle missing and reported it stolen to police. The vehicle is a 1989 Toyota Camry. The investigation is continuing.
Outstanding Warrants – Suspect Arrested
On November 28 at 1:00 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 100 block of West Lemon when he saw a known subject walking in the area. The officer had prior knowledge that the subject had outstanding warrants for his arrest. The officer contacted the subject and confirmed the warrants. He then arrested the subject and took him into custody, where he remained pending his court appearance date.
Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
On November 28 at 3:37 p.m., Special Enforcement Team officers were on patrol in the area of Fifth and Huntington, when they stopped a motorist for a vehicle code violation. Upon contacting the driver, they discovered she had two outstanding no-bail warrants for her arrest. The driver gave verbal consent for the officers to search her vehicle. The officers located heroin and drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle. The driver was arrested and taken into custody. The driver was also found to have methamphetamine concealed in her clothing.
Monrovia High Robotics Team Blood Drive
The City of Hope and Monrovia High Robotics are out for your blood.
This coming Saturday, December 6, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. the Kings And Queens robotics team of Monrovia High will be hosting a blood collection drive for the City of Hope at Monrovia High. The COH Bloodmobile will be located in the main MHS parking lot off Madison Ave, outside the Event Center. This blood drive is being held in conjunction with the county-wide First Tech Challenge robotics competition taking place at the High School on Saturday and Sunday.
City of Hope is critically short of blood for surgery patients. During the holiday season we give gifts to express our love to those closest to us. This year why not also give the most important gift of all to someone you don't even know, the gift of life.
If you would like to reserve your VIP time slot, visit the scheduling site at http://www.idonateblood4hope.org and enter event code MORT. Reservation is not required.
Source: press release
- Brad Haugaard
Flash Flood Watch for Monrovia
Flash flood watch for burn areas in LA County. That's us. Monrovia has a burn area from the Madison Fire. http://goo.gl/QlY7Jv
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Gravel Bags Available for Monrovians Below Madison Fire Burn Area
Residents are encouraged to pick-up gravel bags at the Public Works Office at 600 S. Mountain Avenue, Monday - Thursday 7 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. or at the Monrovia Fire Station, 101 at 141 E. Lime Ave., Monday - Thursday and after hours including Friday-Saturday-Sunday. Gravel to fill the bags is available at 443 Highland Place and 839 Crescent Drive in Monrovia. Residents will need eye protection, gloves and a shovel to scoop gravel into the bags. Source: City of Monrovia press release
Informational Meeting for Those Wanting to Run for Monrovia Municipal Offices
If you are interested in running for public office in Monrovia, for the April 14, 2015 election, there will be a "pre-nomination candidate informational meeting" at 6 p.m., Dec. 22 at the Monrovia Community Center. Nomination papers must be filed between Dec. 22, 2014 and Jan. 16, 2015. Contact City Clerk Alice Atkins for further information: 932-5505 or aatkins@ci.monrovia.ca.us.
"I began this candidate information meeting several years ago in an effort to raise awareness about what it means to be a candidate so that people weren’t blind-sided when they came to pull nomination papers," said City Clerk Alice Atkins. "Hopefully this meeting demystifies the process a bit."
Positions open for the upcoming Monrovia General Municipal Election are: Mayor (2 years), and two Council Member seats (4 years). The meeting is open to anyone interested in running for local government in any city or those who simply want to learn more about the election process.
Source: Monrovia press release
- Brad Haugaard
"I began this candidate information meeting several years ago in an effort to raise awareness about what it means to be a candidate so that people weren’t blind-sided when they came to pull nomination papers," said City Clerk Alice Atkins. "Hopefully this meeting demystifies the process a bit."
Positions open for the upcoming Monrovia General Municipal Election are: Mayor (2 years), and two Council Member seats (4 years). The meeting is open to anyone interested in running for local government in any city or those who simply want to learn more about the election process.
Source: Monrovia press release
- Brad Haugaard
'Significant Rain' for Monrovia Area? Possible 2-3 Inches
A Pacific storm system may bring "significant rain" Tuesday and Wednesday, with maybe some sprinkles as early as tonight and Sunday. Two to 3 inches possible in the foothills and mountains. http://goo.gl/yKR1II
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Opinion: Why Cloverleaf Is Vital for the Monrovia Hillside Wilderness Preserve
In a previous post ( http://goo.gl/sX3x5z ) I gave my thoughts on the gate that accesses the Monrovia Hillside Wilderness Preserve from Ridgeside Drive, and a reader asked for an update on the Cloverleaf entrance to the area. I want to answer that question and two more questions that haven't been asked, so ...
1. What is happening with the Cloverleaf entry point?
2. What am I missing back in those hills?
3. Why is the Cloverleaf entry point so important?
What is happening with the Cloverleaf entry point?
The Cloverleaf entry point is not open because it needs a right-of-way from private property owners. On October 27 of this year ( http://goo.gl/ctqLh2 ) I was told that the city had completed its appraisal and was ready to meet with the property owners.
A few days ago (Nov. 25) I got an update from Director of Community Services Tina Cherry, who wrote:
What am I missing back in those hills?
Well, the other day I took these pictures on the road going down toward the Cloverleaf exit. A very pretty area and I am anxious to for others to enjoy it as well.
The problem is that at the bottom of the road you encounter this patriotic but very locked gate, and are faced with the dilemma of violating someone's property rights or going all the way back the way you came.
Why is the Cloverleaf entry point so important?
The Hillside Wilderness Preserve cannot really be enjoyed by most people unless Cloverleaf is opened. Consider this map (and please forgive my poor graphics skills).
Suppose you began a hike or bike ride at the corner of Myrtle and Hillcrest, at the big blue dot. Following the blue line I've marked out, you walk up Hillcrest, onto Canyon, then Ridgecrest, then take what looks like a driveway to get to the Wilderness Preserve gate (the red bar), which you climb over and continue up, up, up to a point just before it says "New Trail." Congrats! You've made it to the top, and from your starting point you have climbed about 710 vertical feet (if my map reading is correct), plus a few miles horizontally.
Now you head down, taking the zig-zag New Trail to avoid crossing private property. Down, down, down, down. About 600 vertical feet down to the Cloverleaf gate. Plus some more mileage.
Whew! You are almost back at your starting point. You've had a great hike today and are glad you are almost done.
But no!
The Cloverleaf gate (the other red bar) is closed, locked, and you will either violate private property if you climb it or squeeze through, or you will have to keep following the blue line and climb all the way back up and circle back the way you came.
It would be so much easier if you could just continue on the purple line to get back to your starting point.
Hopefully sometime very soon.
1. What is happening with the Cloverleaf entry point?
2. What am I missing back in those hills?
3. Why is the Cloverleaf entry point so important?
What is happening with the Cloverleaf entry point?
The Cloverleaf entry point is not open because it needs a right-of-way from private property owners. On October 27 of this year ( http://goo.gl/ctqLh2 ) I was told that the city had completed its appraisal and was ready to meet with the property owners.
A few days ago (Nov. 25) I got an update from Director of Community Services Tina Cherry, who wrote:
"We have contact[ed] one of the property owners to discuss our next step; however, they will not be available to discuss until the first of the year. We will continue to do our best to reach out to the second owner and move this forward."I believe Cherry is trying to get this done, but I am disappointed that this discussion will not begin until the first of next year.
What am I missing back in those hills?
Well, the other day I took these pictures on the road going down toward the Cloverleaf exit. A very pretty area and I am anxious to for others to enjoy it as well.
The problem is that at the bottom of the road you encounter this patriotic but very locked gate, and are faced with the dilemma of violating someone's property rights or going all the way back the way you came.
Why is the Cloverleaf entry point so important?
The Hillside Wilderness Preserve cannot really be enjoyed by most people unless Cloverleaf is opened. Consider this map (and please forgive my poor graphics skills).
Suppose you began a hike or bike ride at the corner of Myrtle and Hillcrest, at the big blue dot. Following the blue line I've marked out, you walk up Hillcrest, onto Canyon, then Ridgecrest, then take what looks like a driveway to get to the Wilderness Preserve gate (the red bar), which you climb over and continue up, up, up to a point just before it says "New Trail." Congrats! You've made it to the top, and from your starting point you have climbed about 710 vertical feet (if my map reading is correct), plus a few miles horizontally.
Now you head down, taking the zig-zag New Trail to avoid crossing private property. Down, down, down, down. About 600 vertical feet down to the Cloverleaf gate. Plus some more mileage.
Whew! You are almost back at your starting point. You've had a great hike today and are glad you are almost done.
But no!
The Cloverleaf gate (the other red bar) is closed, locked, and you will either violate private property if you climb it or squeeze through, or you will have to keep following the blue line and climb all the way back up and circle back the way you came.
It would be so much easier if you could just continue on the purple line to get back to your starting point.
Hopefully sometime very soon.
- Brad Haugaard
Lunch at the Taqueria el Diablo
Lunch at the new Taqueria el Diablo at the corner of Myrtle and Olive. Got two chorizo tacos at $1.50 each and a medium horchata for $2.75. I wasn't brave enough to try the beef cheek, beef tongue, snouts, or intestines, but the chorizo tacos were excellent.
- Brad Haugaard
Opinion: Monrovia, Please Reopen the Gate to the Hillside Preserve!
The public access gate off of Ridgeside Drive to Monrovia's Hillside Wilderness Preserve (map: http://goo.gl/PNzQYT ), which has been open most of this year, has now been locked tight, but is still officially open - Hikers can climb over the gate and bicyclists can lift their bikes over the gate or lay them down and shove them under the gate.
I asked Director of Community Services Tina Cherry why the Ridgeside gate has been locked. She responded:
Cherry said there is a sign. She wrote:
I have blown up the part of the picture that shows the prohibition against unauthorized vehicles.
Yes, I completely agree that this sign could use additional clarification. I imagine one reason the sign hasn't eliminated unlawful activity is because it is unclear. I find it difficult to imagine why someone riding a little electric- or gas-assist bike would suppose this rule - illustrated by what is clearly an automobile - referred to him or her.
I'm glad that, as Cherry says, this decision will be reviewed, because I think the gate should be reopened even while the city is planning a new gate. To lock a gate to an area the public should have easy access to because someone - who may have had no clue he or she was violating the law - rode a motor-assisted bicycle up the trail seems very unfair. I think that once the prohibition is clearly posted, then the solution should be to give warnings or tickets to those who violate the law, which should not be hard since, as she mentioned, the Park Rangers "patrol the Hillside twice a day, every day."
To most people a locked gate means "keep out" or "closed," and that is the wrong message to send to people who are approaching an area that is in fact open, and which they are entitled to enter, and which they have been waiting something like 15 years for reasonable access to, and which they have been paying for through their taxes for year after year.
I don't want to be overly critical because I know the city has made some effort to open this area, but I think closing this gate was the wrong move.
Some history: Monrovians approved a bond measure something like 15 years ago to purchase this area as an open-to-the-public preserve, but both ends of this trail have been locked shut until January of this year, at which time a new gate was installed at the Ridgeside entrance and the old gate behind it was left open ( http://goo.gl/K5IGAk ). Then, recently, the new gate was removed but the old gate remained open enough so hikers and bicyclists, but not cars, could still walk or ride through ( http://goo.gl/zeccIn ). Now both ends of the trail are again locked shut. The gate at the other end of the trail, at the end of Cloverleaf Drive, has never been opened.
- Brad Haugaard
"A few of the residents near Ridgeside voiced their concerns about seeing motor bikes in the Hillside. As you know unauthorized motor vehicles of any kind are not allowed and our Park Rangers patrol the Hillside twice a day, every day. The area is still open and accessible. Until the new gate can be installed, we wanted to give the area residents peace of mind that no unauthorized vehicles will be accessing the area.And in response to a later question she added this:
"As for the new gate," she added, "we want the location to be reviewed and approved by adjacent property owners. We hope to reach an agreement in the coming weeks and install the gate, shortly thereafter."
"The thought was that pedal-power bikes can be lifted over the gate or slid under the gate; whereas someone may have more difficulty with a motorized bike. The future gate will have a separate pedestrian access, where if someone wanted to walk a bike through they could. Keeping out all unauthorized vehicles is a challenge and we are trying our best to find a balance between allowing approved access and restricting unapproved access."It seemed that if the city wanted to exclude motorized bikes, there should be a sign at the gate prohibiting them. I looked and didn't see one, so I asked if it wouldn't be a good idea to just post a notice that motorized vehicles are not allowed.
Cherry said there is a sign. She wrote:
"Our hope would be that the signs are enough to eliminate any unlawful activity; however, that has not been the case. The attached picture shows a sign at Ridgeside where we have referenced no unauthorized vehicles, including the Municipal Code. I can see how additional clarification regarding motorized vehicles could be helpful. We will take time to review this a bit more."
Here is the picture:
Yes, I completely agree that this sign could use additional clarification. I imagine one reason the sign hasn't eliminated unlawful activity is because it is unclear. I find it difficult to imagine why someone riding a little electric- or gas-assist bike would suppose this rule - illustrated by what is clearly an automobile - referred to him or her.
I'm glad that, as Cherry says, this decision will be reviewed, because I think the gate should be reopened even while the city is planning a new gate. To lock a gate to an area the public should have easy access to because someone - who may have had no clue he or she was violating the law - rode a motor-assisted bicycle up the trail seems very unfair. I think that once the prohibition is clearly posted, then the solution should be to give warnings or tickets to those who violate the law, which should not be hard since, as she mentioned, the Park Rangers "patrol the Hillside twice a day, every day."
To most people a locked gate means "keep out" or "closed," and that is the wrong message to send to people who are approaching an area that is in fact open, and which they are entitled to enter, and which they have been waiting something like 15 years for reasonable access to, and which they have been paying for through their taxes for year after year.
I don't want to be overly critical because I know the city has made some effort to open this area, but I think closing this gate was the wrong move.
- - -
Some history: Monrovians approved a bond measure something like 15 years ago to purchase this area as an open-to-the-public preserve, but both ends of this trail have been locked shut until January of this year, at which time a new gate was installed at the Ridgeside entrance and the old gate behind it was left open ( http://goo.gl/K5IGAk ). Then, recently, the new gate was removed but the old gate remained open enough so hikers and bicyclists, but not cars, could still walk or ride through ( http://goo.gl/zeccIn ). Now both ends of the trail are again locked shut. The gate at the other end of the trail, at the end of Cloverleaf Drive, has never been opened.
- Brad Haugaard