Monrovia Boys & Girls Club Open House

Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills invites community members to visit this Friday during its open house. The Club will be open all day, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tour the facilities and learn more about its life-changing work with our youth. 600 S. Shamrock Avenue. RSVP to anavar@foothillsbgc.org

- Brad Haugaard

Merengue To Open in Five Weeks | Easter Egg Hunt | After-School at Plymouth | Tech Incubator Program | Historic Preservation Surveey

From City Manager Oliver Chi's weekly report:

- Merengue Bakery & Cafe should open in its new location at 417 South Myrtle Avenue in about five weeks.

- The City's Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Healthy Kids Day will be held this Saturday, April 4, at 10 a.m. in Recreation Park. Registration for the Egg Hunt will begin at 9:45 a.m. Arts and crafts, face painting, carnival games, a book giveaway, refreshments, wellness activities, music, activities for various ages, and a visit by the Easter Bunny.

- The city is making "good progress" in starting an after-school sports program at Plymouth Elementary. "Based on our current discussions, we should be able to work out program logistics within the next several weeks."

- The city wants to develop a science and technology incubator program and has been talking with Oak Crest Institute of Science and with representatives from a firm called Lab Launch.

- If you'd like to take the historic preservation survey, here it is: http://goo.gl/1pw17A

- Brad Haugaard

Montgomery Named 'Woman of the Year for Monrovia'

Mrs. Joanne Montgomery, president of the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees, was recently honored by Assembly Member Roger Hernandez as Woman of the Year for Monrovia at a special awards ceremony on Saturday, March 28.

Montgomery was chosen as one of this year’s honorees because of her ongoing service, leadership, advocacy, and commitment to the city in which she lives. For 32 years, she served the Monrovia Unified School District as an elementary school teacher, working with the district’s gifted and talented education program.  She was also a master teacher for several universities and served on numerous school committees.  Her many honors include a Teacher of the Year award.

In 1998, Mrs. Montgomery was appointed to the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees to fill a vacancy.  She was later elected to the board in 1999, 2003, 2007, and 2011. She is also a member of the Monrovia Chamber of Commerce Business Education and Community Outreach Network (BEACON), the Duarte Chamber of Commerce Education Committee, and represents the Board of Trustees on the Citrus College Foundation Board.

Source: Citrus press release

Monrovia's Chris Wong - Soccer Player of the Year

Star-News names Monrovia's Chris Wong as its 2015 Soccer Player of the Year. http://goo.gl/iqAV1h

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: 13-Year-Old Hit By Vehicle; Car Chase; Drunk in Public; Bike Crash; Wallet Swiped

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 26-29. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Injury Traffic Collision
March 26 at 2:53 p.m., an officer on patrol was driving northbound on California when he approached a traffic collision that had just occurred. The two vehicles collided in the intersection at California and Huntington. One of the vehicles was heading northbound and the other southbound. The vehicle heading northbound turned to continue west on Huntington, but did not yield to the vehicle traveling south on California and was struck. There were no major injuries; however, the occupants of one vehicle, including four children ages 2 through 7, were taken to a hospital for examination.

Injury Traffic Collision – Vehicle vs. Pedestrian
March 27 at 11:07 a.m., police responded to the report of an injury traffic collision. A 13- year-old boy was crossing Foothill at Mountain when a driver failed to see him and struck him as the driver turned. The driver had been stopped, and the contact was as he accelerated from a stop. The boy had no visible injuries, but complained of pain to his leg. He was taken to a hospital for examination. The mother of the boy was contacted and responded to the hospital.

Drunk in Public – Suspect Arrested
March 28 at 2:38 a.m., officers on patrol in the area of California and Huntington observed a male adult who appeared to be passed out in the park. They approached the subject to conduct a welfare check and discovered he was intoxicated. The subject could not stand and was having trouble communicating. He was arrested for being drunk in public and taken into custody, where he was held for sobering.

Outstanding Warrant – Suspect Arrested
March 28 at 2:45 a.m., an officer observed a vehicle driving erratically and conducted a traffic stop to investigate. As the officer approached the vehicle, they observed the rear passenger moving around in the back seat and appeared to be reaching for something. The rear passenger was found to be trying to hide an open alcoholic beverage container. The driver had an outstanding, no-bail warrant, and the female passenger had medical conditions that required paramedics to respond for treatment. The driver was arrested for the warrant and the vehicle was stored.

Solo Bicycle Injury Accident
March 28 at 9:27 a.m., a bicyclist was riding in the number two westbound lane of Huntington when he lost control of the bicycle and fell, injuring himself. He said he hit a rut in the street. He had scrapes and some swelling above his right eye. He was taken to a hospital for treatment.

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
March 28 at 5:20 p.m., an officer observed a subject picking through the trash and throwing it on the ground by a restaurant in the 900 block of West Huntington. He contacted the man and told him he could not pick through the trash. The manager of the restaurant came out and told the man he was not allowed on their property. The manager said he had warned the subject many times for leaving trash on the ground in the patio eating area. He was asked to leave by the manager. He refused and began yelling profanities at the manager. The man was arrested for violation of the trash picking ordinance and for trespassing.

Drunk in Public – Suspect Arrested
March 28 at 10:05 p.m., an officer on patrol saw a male subject lying on the ground at the intersection of Peck Road and Live Oak. The officer stopped to check on the subject’s welfare and determined the subject was intoxicated. The subject had difficulty standing on his own and did not know where he was at. He was arrested for being drunk in public and held for sobering.

Petty Theft From a Vehicle
March 29 at 10:45 a.m., a petty theft from a vehicle was reported in the 500 block of South Mountain. The victim's were at the park walking their dogs. They went back to their car and it would not start. The husband left his wallet on the front passenger seat of the car and walked away to look for a phone. The wife went back into the park with the dogs to find shade. She saw two subjects, a male and female Black, walking on the sidewalk. The male opened their car door, reached inside and the subjects ran. The male victim's wallet was taken. A search of the area was made for the suspects, but they were not located. The investigation is continuing.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered
March 29 at 1:29 p.m., a 2001 Chevrolet Tahoe was reported abandoned in the 1400 block of South Primrose. The caller said the truck had been parked at the location for approximately 2 months. A computer check revealed the vehicle had been reported stolen. The vehicle was dusted for prints and then released to the owner in the field. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Pursuit / Felony Assault on a Police Officer – Suspects Arrested
March 29 at 10:13 p.m., police received a call reporting a vehicle burglary in the 100 block of South California. The owner of the vehicle confronted a female suspect sitting inside his truck, ransacking the contents of his vehicle. The female fled on foot as the victim was on the phone with police. As officers arrived to search the area, they saw a grey Honda Accord in the area of Shamrock and Lemon, where the suspect was last seen. The vehicle was occupied by two male Hispanics and was traveling with no lights on. As soon as the driver saw the police unit, he fled south on Shamrock, failing to stop at a posted stop sign at Colorado. The officer attempted to stop the vehicle, but the suspect vehicle failed to yield and a pursuit ensued. The suspect vehicle entered the eastbound 210 Freeway and was pursued into the City of Azusa with the assistance of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's helicopter.

The suspect vehicle eventually drove down a dead end street. He made a u-turn and rammed into two police vehicles, trying to get away. Two suspects were taken into custody. The driver sustained facial and head injuries from the collision. He was taken to the hospital for treatment. One officer sustained minor injuries from the collision. He was medically treated at the hospital and released. The suspects are facing multiple felony charges.

Monrovia Mayoral Finances; Schubert this Good Friday

~ An article in the Star-News about the financial contributions to the Monrovia mayoral candidates: http://goo.gl/S7Imli

~ This Friday. April 3, Good Friday, at 7:30 p.m., Schubert Mass in G with choir and orchestra at Monrovia First Presbyterian Church (Foothill and Myrtle) http://goo.gl/Wg1YF6

View Jupiter tonight with Monrovia's Sidewalk Astronomers

Jane Houston Jones of Monrovia's Old Town Sidewalk Astronomers, reports that it looks good for viewing the moon and Jupiter tonight at 7-9 p.m. at Library Park at the corner of Myrtle and Lime.

- Brad Haugaard

Candidate Austin Corrects Candidate Contributions

Note: Mr. Scott Austin, who is running for city council, responds below to my article here ( http://goo.gl/cxfvPJ ) regarding the contributions he has received, and he copies and notates the posting with his corrections (below). I am happy to clear up this matter. The information I originally posted was from Mr. Austin's campaign as filed with the City Clerk's office. Following is Mr. Austin's letter. - Brad Haugaard


Mr. Haugaard,

Too bad your message admits that there could be duplications in my contributions but you didn’t take the time to get the correct information before posting so fair to all candidates.  I have no problem sharing my contributions of which I'm grateful and proud to have their support.  I’d appreciate you showing the corrections with strike throughs and comments as shown below.  The net overstatement is $6,120.61 -- incorrectly overstated by 30 percent!

Thank you for your assistance with this matter.

Scott Austin

Alhambra Firefighters Political Action Committee (Alhambra) $2,500
California Professional Firefighters Political Action Committee (Sacramento, non-monetary gift for printing lawn signs – 02/05/2015) $1,210.61
duplicate of above California Professional Firefighters Political Action Committee (Sacramento – 02/10/2015) $1,210.61
Daniel Haro (Alta Loma, CA) $100
David Brinker (Akron, OH) $200
Debbie Austin $28.52
Debbie Austin (loan) $3,000
Debbie Austin $1,000
Donna Baker $200
Firefighters for Better Government Political Action Committee (Camarillo, CA) $2,500
Joe & Paula Costantino (DPO, AE) $200
Karen Suarez $200
Mary Ann & Cory Lutz $250
Michael Cacciotti (South Pasadena) $100
Monrovia Firefighters Issues Committee (02/02/2015) $3,000
not a valid PAC and not received Monrovia Firefighters Association Local 2415 (02/06/2015) $3,000
Natalie Park (South Pasadena) $100
Pasadena Firefighters Local 809 (Sacramento – 01/17/15) $1,000
Pasadena Firefighters Local 809 (Sacramento – 02/26/2015) $2,000
duplicate of above  Pasadena Firefighters Local 809 (Sacramento – 02/28/2015) $2,000
Pasadena Firefighters Local 809 (Sacramento – 03/05/2015) $2,000
Samuel LaSala $100
Thomas Alan Suess $100
Thomas Fouser $100
United Firefighters of Los Angeles City Local 112 Political Action Committee (LA) $500
Victor Castellanos $500

Dinner at Sena

Dinner recently at Sena, on the west side of Myrtle in Old Town. Got the Kobe Truffle Cheeseburger ($12) off the March Specials Menu, and a beer ($4). Very nice but I think my favorite is still the short rib tacos. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Video Interviews With Monrovia Mayoral and City Council Candidates

Video interviews with the Monrovia mayoral and city council candidates, by KGEM and Beacon Media.

Mayor
Leonard Holen
Mary Ann Lutz
Tom Adams

City Council
Becky Shevlin
Chris Zeigler
Clifford DeCosta
Gloria Crudgington
Jordan Kittleson
Robert Parry
Stephen Grollnek

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Comes From Behind to Defeat Temple City

Monrovia came from far behind, scoring six times in the seventh inning, to defeat Temple City, 8 to 6. http://goo.gl/nbfP0Z

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Rotary Sponsors Race-Prep Sessions | Stress Reduction | Goodbye to Dr. Green

~ Monrovia Rotary Club is sponsoring a series of training sessions to prepare for the Fountain to the Falls run on May 9. Rotarian Lynda Linforth, a personal trainer and owner of Trainer on the Run, will guide participants for an hour walk and will share run/walk tips. First session is this Saturday, March 28 at 10 a.m. on the southeast corner of Foothill and Myrtle. If you are interested, email Julie Roybal at jroybal@orionrisk.com.

~ A stress reduction group for women over 50 is forming in April, with sessions to be held at St. Luke's Episcopal Church. The fee-based group will be facilitated by Dr. Jean Williams, a therapist with over 30 years' experience in treating those suffering from stress-related problems and mood disorders. Dr. Williams says the program can be especially meaningful for women who have experienced a significant loss or been a caretaker of a loved one with a chronic illness. For more information, contact Dr. Williams at wjeanw90@gmail.com

~ Monrovia's First Presbyterian Church will say good bye to Dr. Peter Green and thank him for 20 years of music ministry at the church this Sunday, March 29, following the worship service.

Did Monrovia Have the First 100 Plus Temperature for the Year in the Nation?

The Weather Channel Tweets: Unofficial high of 100ºF reported in Monrovia, CA today; if verified, would be 1st 100º high in the USA in 2015.

Comment: Hmmm. Warm but I don't think that warm.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Failed Escape to Mexico; Smoke 'of an Unknown Origin'; Man and Woman Fight

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 23-25. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 447 service events, During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 447 service events, resulting in 75 investigations.

Outstanding Warrant – Suspect Arrested
March 23 at 11:41 a.m., a male subject was trying to board a flight to Mexico. He was stopped by I.C.E. and a computer check was made on the subject. He was found to have an outstanding warrant for his arrest out of Monrovia. An officer responded and brought the subject back to the Monrovia Police Department, where he was booked on the warrant.

Vehicle Tampering
March 24 at 1:20 a.m., a female resident in the 400 block of Stedman called to report a male suspect wearing dark clothing and a hooded sweatshirt inside their vehicle in front of their house. The woman’s husband ran outside to confront the suspect, but the suspect ran to a waiting vehicle, possibly a 4-door Honda Civic or Accord, and fled the area. The investigation is continuing.

Stolen Vehicle
March 24 at 7:24 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 400 block of South Sunset. The vehicle is a 1991, black, Toyota, pickup truck. The vehicle was stolen sometime during the night. The investigation is continuing.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
March 24 at 6:57 p.m., an officer responded to a business parking lot in the 300 block of West Huntington regarding a hit and run collision that just occurred. The suspect vehicle was described as a white, 1993, Honda Accord. An area check was conducted for the vehicle, but it was not located. There were no injuries and the investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
March 24 at 7:23 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 400 block of Oakcliff on the report of a burglary that just occurred. The suspect was seen leaving the location and getting into a waiting vehicle. The suspect was described as a heavyset, male Hispanic in his 20s. Both suspects had heavy beards. The vehicle was described as a gray, 4- door Nissan. A small amount of cash was taken from a purse inside the location. The investigation is continuing.

Identity Theft / Fraud – Five Suspects Arrested
March 25 at 11:48 a.m., police responded to a hotel in the 900 block of West Huntington regarding suspects using a fraudulent credit card to rent a room. When the officers arrived at the suspect’s room, they found stolen mail and other evidence to indicate the suspects were committing identity fraud. Five suspects were arrested. During the initial entry to the room, the officers were exposed to smoke of an unknown origin. They began to feel lightheaded and experienced heart palpitations. They were taken to the hospital to be checked out.

Domestic Violence – Suspects Arrested
March 25 at 10:29 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the 500 block of South Mountain regarding a male and female subject in a verbal argument. When the officer arrived, he saw the male and female involved in a physical fight and requested assistance. The subjects were separated and paramedics were called out for visible injuries. Through investigation, the officers learned the subjects are in a dating relationship with each other and are living out of their van. The male subject had injuries to his face, was bit on the hand, and was sprayed with pepper spray by the female. The female also had visible injuries. Both subjects were taken to the hospital for treatment. After getting checked out by a doctor, both subjects were arrested for domestic violence.

Drone Made by Monrovia Company to be Manufactured in India

The Raven drone, made for the military by Monrovia-based AeroVironment, is set to be made in India, according to Bloomberg Business. http://goo.gl/jiVWWV

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Trying to Get After-School Program at Plymouth; Parade for High School Winners; Firefighters Save Life; Canyon Park Program is 'Best'

In his weekly report, City Manager Oliver Chi reports ...

- That Monrovia offers an after school sports program at every elementary school in town except Plymouth. "Last year, we approached the principal at Plymouth Elementary school and asked if she would like us to implement the program on her campus. Staff was told by the principal at that time that she would survey her parents and let us know. We ultimately were unable to get authorization from Plymouth Elementary to offer our after school sports program on their campus." Chi said the city has asked again. He said, "We will continue to pursue the matter..."

- A parade is scheduled for this Thursday, March 26, at 5 p.m. to honor the Monrovia Boys Soccer Team, Girls Individual Wrestling CIF Southern Section Championship, and a member of Monrovia High School's Girls Wrestling Team, who won her CIF division wrestling title. The parade will start on Myrtle at Colorado and will run north to Library Park and should conclude no later than 5:45 p.m.

~ On March 11, 2015, at approximately 11:24 a.m., the Fire Department responded to 715 E. Huntington Dr. (24 Hour Fitness) regarding a fall involving a 70 year old man. "As our team approached the patient, we noticed that CPR was being performed by off-duty Probationary Firefighter Kyle Eden and Fire Cadet Guiseppe Brandonisio." The man went into full cardiac arrest but responded to the responders efforts, and was taken to Arcadia Methodist.

- The Canyon Park Volunteer Program has been selected as a "Best of the Best" by the California Parks and Recreation Society (CPRS) District XIII and will be honored on March 26 in Diamond Bar.

March 4 Balance Rally at Library Park

Thursday, 3/26, the suicide awareness and prevention program, March 4 Balance, will be held at Library Park. The rally and resource fair will kick-off at 6 p.m. with more than 20 service providers and program speakers. http://goo.gl/6r9lyc

Monrovia's Historic Fountain All Fixed

The historic fountain at the corner of Lime and Myrtle in Library Park is now finished. You can even take a drink out of the drinking fountain. It had been destroyed when a car ran into it.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's AeroVironment Working on New Military Drone

Monrovia's AeroVironment is working with Northrop Grumman to develop a new drone for the military.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Stun Gun at High School; Stalking; Suspect Leaves Backpack With ID

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 19-22. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Residential Burglary
March 19 at 12:00 p.m., a resident in the 700 block of Norumbega left his home, possibly leaving the front door unlocked. At 1:00 p.m., he received a call from the housekeeper, who had just arrived at his home and told him the home appeared to have been burglarized. The resident responded, confirmed his home had been burglarized, and immediately called the police. The resident believed the only thing taken was an unspecified amount of cash. The investigation is continuing.

Outstanding Warrants – Suspect Arrested
March 19 at 11:30 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 800 block of East Olive when he saw a suspicious male loitering in the area. The officer contacted the suspect and a computer check revealed he had two no-bail warrants for his arrest. The suspect was arrested for the warrants and taken into custody.

Possession of a Stun Gun – Juvenile Arrested
March 20 at 1:15 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the high school in the 800 block of West Colorado regarding a 15-year-old, male student being detained for possessing a stun gun on campus. The stun gun appeared to be a cell phone; however, it had no phone capabilities. When you push the volume button, the top of the phone shoots out an electrical volt that could temporarily incapacitate someone. The student said he found the stun gun on the ground at school and decided to keep it. He was arrested and later released to his parents with a citation to appear in court.

Stalking – Suspect Arrested
March 20 at 8:48 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 500 block of East Lime regarding a vandalism incident. The officer contacted the victim and learned that over the past several days, the victim has reported annoying/harassing phone calls, threatening phone messages, and vandalism to her residence. A domestic violence restraining order had been obtained against the suspect, who is the victim's ex-boyfriend and father of their 2-year-old child. The victim was interviewed and a stalking case was documented against the suspect. On March 22, an officer was conducting extra patrol in the area, due to the victim’s fear of the suspect, and just as the victim arrived home from work, the suspect ran a posted stop sign near the victim’s home, abruptly stopped in front of her residence and began yelling at her. He was detained by the officer and arrested. The case will be presented to the DA for filing consideration.

Drunk in Public – Suspect Arrested
March 20 at 11:10 p.m., an officer responded to a business in the 100 block of West Duarte Road regarding a subject causing a disturbance. The officer arrived and discovered the male subject was intoxicated to the point of not being able to care for his own safety. The subject was arrested for public Intoxication and taken into custody, where he was held for sobering.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
March 21 at 12:15 p.m., the California Highway Patrol requested assistance searching for a vehicle that had collided on the 210 Freeway and then fled. Officers located a similar vehicle with collision damage parked in a business parking lot at Huntington and Monterey, near the 210 Freeway. The vehicle had paper license plates and was occupied by one male subject in the driver's seat. A DMV computer check revealed the registration was expired over 6 months. The male subject was also determined to be under the influence of a controlled substance. The CHP advised that the vehicle was not the one involved in the collision, but the male subject was arrested for being under the influence of a narcotic. A pat-down search revealed he was in possession of a vial containing a liquid, which later tested positive for PCP. A search of the suspect’s duffel bag also revealed a bag of methamphetamine. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Felon in Possession of Pepper Spray – Suspect Arrested
March 22 at 2:29 a.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 300 block of Huntington regarding a suspicious male subject inside a business holding a box cutter. Officers responded and contacted the subject inside the location. The suspect was holding a box cutter and pepper spray. The suspect was asked to exit the location and put down the box cutter and pepper spray; he complied. The computer check revealed the subject is a convicted felon and cannot be in possession of any type of tear gas. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Hit and Run Traffic Collision
March 22 at 4:34 a.m., police dispatch received a call reporting a traffic collision in the 300 block of South Canyon. Officers responded and located debris in the area and a parked vehicle that appeared to have been struck by a passing vehicle. The suspect vehicle was not located. The investigation is continuing.

Suspicious Circumstance / Resisting or Delaying a Peace Officer
March 22 at 10:25 p.m., officers made a traffic stop on a vehicle at Myrtle and Huntington for a vehicle code violation. As they stopped the vehicle, a male passenger fled from the vehicle carrying a backpack. Assisting officers searched for the subject, but did not locate him. The driver was cited for possession of marijuana. A resident called a short time later and reported finding a backpack in his yard which matched the name the driver gave for the passenger. The backpack contained a 22 caliber magazine and two receipts in the suspect’s name. A verified complaint is being filed against the suspect for resisting/delaying a peace officer. The investigation is continuing.

Monrovia Juice Bar Opens Location at Arcadia High | Joannie Yuille to be Honored

~ The Monrovia Robeks (Fifth and Huntington) has just opened one of the country's first public school juice bars at the new cafeteria at Arcadia High School. Robeks owner Robert Kenz says the franchise has been providing juices to area middle schools for several years but this is the first location to offer fresh fruit and vegetable juices made to order. Source: press release

~ Congresswoman Napolitano will honor volunteer Joannie Yuille as her Woman of the Year. Yuille was nominated by Mayor Lutz. The award will be presented by Napolitano at a Luncheon on April 10 in El Monte. http://goo.gl/Bn4uzG

- Brad Haugaard

Lenten Fish Fry Dinner

Friday, March 27, Monrovia Knights of Columbus will hold a Lenten Fish Fry Dinner. 130 W. Pomona Avenue, Monrovia; 5:30-8 p.m. Take out available. Call 359-6489 for details.

- Brad Haugaard

Reports on Monrovia City Council and Mayoral Races

A report in the Star-News about the Monrovia City Council race ( http://goo.gl/heuSg9 ) and the mayoral race ( http://goo.gl/DXOm0J ).

- Brad Haugaard

Foothill Unity Center to Celebrate 35th Birthday

Friends of Foothill Unity Center will celebrate the organization's 35th birthday on Saturday, May 2, with a gala evening in the Sofia Ballroom at Noor Event Center, 260 East Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena. Festivities begin with a 5:30 p.m. cocktail reception and silent auction, followed at 7:30 p.m. by dinner and program, featuring a live auction. Tickets are $150 per person. For information on tickets, sponsorships and program ads, contact Barbara Rolf, 358-3486, barbara@foothillunitycenter.org. Proceeds will support Foothill Unity Center's programs helping the most vulnerable children, individuals and families across eleven San Gabriel Valley cities.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia School Board to Consider New Math Classes

At its next meeting the Monrovia School Board will, among other things, consider some new math classes and textbooks. http://goo.gl/3Eb16O

- Brad Haugaard

Contributions in Monrovia City Council Race

Here is the latest list of campaign contributions in the Monrovia city council race. All contributions are from Monrovia unless a different city is noted. Note: I am a bit dubious about the figures for Mr. Austin's campaign; although I checked the dates of the contributions it appears that some of them may be duplicate entries. My apologies if there are errors. Let me know of any problems and I'll correct them.

Becky Shevlin
Alec Jimenez $175
April Soash $200
Becky Rivanis (non-monetary gift – pastries, beverages for event) $330.46
Becky Shevlin (loan) $100
Betty Sandford $250
Chris Kidd (non-monetary gift – room for event) $500
Chris Shevlin (loan) $5,000
Christopher Shevlin $5,000 (Becky says there was only the $5,000 loan)
Glenn Cox, Jr. $100
Hal Leavens $100
Jacen Crehan $100
Janet Cerswell (Alta Loma, CA) $100
Jeanne Miles $300
Joane Spring $200
Judy Schaeffler $100
Pam Barkus $100
Pamela Fitzpatrick $200
Paul Lawrence $150
Pokrajac Corporation (San Jacinto, CA) $500
Rudy Castrellon $300
Susan Hirsch $100

Chris Ziegler
Chris Ziegler (loan) $4,000

Clifford DeCosta
Clifford DeCosta $1,000
Clifford DeCosta $1,000

Gloria Crudgington
Arlene Dunson $150
Ford Printing & Mailing (Irwindale. Non-monetary gift – discount) $150
George Forbes $100
Gwendolyn Jones $100
Judith Pace Twomey $100
Lisa Magno $100
Marie Metsker $100
Marilyn C. Serotko $100
Myrtle Court Apartments $5,000
Samuel J. LaSala, Jr. $100

Jordan Kittleston
Donna Jiminez (Chino Hills), $50
Jordan K. Kittleston, $100
Nipa & John Dunn, $100
Committee to Re-Elect John Valdiria (San Bernardino), $150
Adam Sands (Redlands), $75
Jerry Chambers (Upland), $25
Asja Thomas, $5
Robyn Gordon (Upland), $100
Diamond King, $50
Bianca Slagle (Indianapolis, IN), $50
Jordan K. Kittleston, $20
Jordan K. Kittleston, $25
Eva Baeza (Fontana), $100
Renford R Reese (Pomona), $200
Earl DeVries (Ontario), $25

Robert Parry
Brian Yamaguchi $100
Bruce Merwin $200
Chris Ziegler $100
Danie Oullette $100
Dennis Geary $1,000
Gwendolyn Jones $100
John Jackson (Wildomar, CA) $100
Kevin Kothlow (Laguna Beach, CA) $250
Loresly Dowling $300
RC Stamps $200
Richard Mountjoy $250
Robert Parry $1,500

Scott Austin (corrections from Mr. Austin)
Alhambra Firefighters Political Action Committee (Alhambra) $2,500
California Professional Firefighters Political Action Committee (Sacramento, non-monetary gift for printing lawn signs – 02/05/2015) $1,210.61
duplicate of above California Professional Firefighters Political Action Committee (Sacramento – 02/10/2015) $1,210.61
Daniel Haro (Alta Loma, CA) $100
David Brinker (Akron, OH) $200
Debbie Austin $28.52
Debbie Austin (loan) $3,000
Debbie Austin $1,000
Donna Baker $200
Firefighters for Better Government Political Action Committee (Camarillo, CA) $2,500
Joe & Paula Costantino (DPO, AE) $200
Karen Suarez $200
Mary Ann & Cory Lutz $250
Michael Cacciotti (South Pasadena) $100
Monrovia Firefighters Issues Committee (02/02/2015) $3,000
not a valid PAC and not received Monrovia Firefighters Association Local 2415 (02/06/2015) $3,000
Natalie Park (South Pasadena) $100
Pasadena Firefighters Local 809 (Sacramento – 01/17/15) $1,000
Pasadena Firefighters Local 809 (Sacramento – 02/26/2015) $2,000
duplicate of above Pasadena Firefighters Local 809 (Sacramento – 02/28/2015) $2,000
Pasadena Firefighters Local 809 (Sacramento – 03/05/2015) $2,000
Samuel LaSala $100
Thomas Alan Suess $100
Thomas Fouser $100
United Firefighters of Los Angeles City Local 112 Political Action Committee (LA) $500
Victor Castellanos $500

Stephen Grollnek
No contributions listed

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Office Depot Closing

Robert Parry reports seeing a sign going up over the Office Depot on Huntington saying the store will be closing on May 16.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Gold Line Maintenance Yard Gets Its First Rail Cars

Habib Balian, in charge of Gold Line construction, reports:

"Yesterday, the first light rail vehicles arrived to the nearly completed $265 million, 24-acre Gold Line Operations Campus in Monrovia. The full-service, state-of-the-art facility will be completed and turned over to Metro in early June, ahead of the previous delivery schedule of September... Over the next several weeks, final preparations and live wire testing will be underway throughout the campus."

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's Trader Joe's Recalls Walnuts

Monrovia-based Trader Joe's is recalling walnuts for possible salmonella contamination. http://goo.gl/T3ov2H

 

- Brad Haugaard

Contributions in Monrovia Mayoral Race

Here are the latest campaign contributions in the Monrovia mayoral race. Note, I have not included information about Mr. Leonard Holen as he did not report any contributions. All contributions are from Monrovia unless a different city is noted:

Tom Adams
Blaine Fetter, $1,500
Linda Fetter, $1,500
Reid Samuelson (LA), $1,500
Jack Samuelson (LA), $1,500
Eric Mozilo, $2,000
Gurdev Singh Anand (Glendora), $1,000
Fred Bowden, $1,000
George Forbes, $1,500
Warren Lukesh (Sunland), $1,500
John Bonholtzer, $500
Charles Pollard, $100
J. Harrington Construction (Pasadena), $100
Paul Kalemkiarian, $250
Alice Mah, $100
Roger Dickey, $200
Peter Sylchak, $100
Dan Whoolery (Arcadia), $100
Barbara Radford, $200
G Arakelian, $200
John Radford, Jr., $500
Larry Moore, $100
Joseph Leonard, $250
Danny Crandel, $100
Hal Leavens, $100
Robert Wight (Azusa), $100
Karen Taylor, $100
Donald Eldridge (Glendora), $200
Kurt Anderson, $200
Edward Rigazzi (Covina), $100
Gwendolyn Jones, $100
Judy Schaeffler, $100
Michele Thompkins (Astoria, OR), $100
Richard Mountjoy, $250
Gage Freeman (Northridge), $500
Joseph Leonard (I know; listed twice), $250
Kirsten Jardino (Arcadia), $100
 
Mary Ann Lutz  
Fortune Dynamic (City of Industry), $1,000
Chateau Capital (Arcadia), $1,200
Gloria Huss (Monrovia Floral – balloons, flowers), $171
Hal Dash (Valencia), $200
Kathy Stone, $100
John Wayne Carlson, $1,000
Dick and Jan Singer, $250
Denis & Diana Bertone (San Dimas), $250
Peter & Toni Hoffman (Sierra Autocars), $999
Gary & Karen Sutherland, $100
Hans Liang (Monterey Park), $100
Mike & Cheryl Antos, $100
Frances & David Cash, $100
Brian Ulm, $100
Gloria & Steven Rassmusen, $100
Andre Quintero (El Monte), $100
Jim & Joanne Spring, $200
Felix Villaneva, $100
Janet Wall, $500
Mike & Marilee Mohajer (San Dimas), $100
Michael Cacciotti (South Pasadena), $150
Janet & Norm Cerswell (Alta Loma, CA), $100
Ferne Petrie, $500
Corey & Mary Ann Lutz, $5,000
Anthony Portantino Campaign Account, $250
Gordon & Louise Robertson, $100
Paul and Amy Lawrence, $500

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Driving Drunk With Four-Year-Old; Bike vs Bike

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 16-18. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 441 service events, resulting in 82 investigations. 

Commercial Burglary
March 17 at 6:54 a.m., police responded to a business in the 400 block of West Foothill regarding a window that had been smashed at the location. An officer arrived and found the front window had been smashed and the suspect(s) stole the cash register, which contained a small amount of cash, and 6 packages of cigarettes. The investigation is continuing. 

Weapon Offense – Suspect Arrested
March 17 at 6:06 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the 900 block of Norumbega regarding a complaint of subjects smoking inside a vehicle in a fire zone. An officer arrived and contacted the driver. A check of the vehicle revealed the registration was expired and the vehicle was impounded. A search of the vehicle prior to impound revealed a pair of brass knuckles, which the driver said belonged to him. The driver was arrested for possession of brass knuckles. 

Driving Under the Influence / Child Endangerment – Suspect Arrested
March 18 at 12:21 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 600 block of West Huntington when he stopped a vehicle for almost crashing into the center divider. The driver was intoxicated and had her four year old child in the vehicle. The driver was arrested for driving under the influence and child endangerment. The child was released to a relative. 

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 18 at 5:08 a.m., an officer responded to a business parking lot in the 700 block of South Shamrock regarding a female passed out behind the wheel of a vehicle. The subject was determined to be extremely intoxicated. She was arrested and taken into custody for sobering. 

Bicycle Collision With Injuries
March 18 at 1:50 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a bicycle accident at Canyon and Almond. Two juvenile bicyclists were riding on Canyon when one rider hit the other and went down, breaking his arm. The parents were notified and the child was taken to the hospital for treatment. 

Why Does Monrovia Elect Its Mayor Separately?

I got to wondering about why Monrovia elects its mayor separately from the city council, since so many similar-size cities in the area just elect council members, who then elect the mayor among themselves. So I asked City Clerk Alice Atkins, who said the at-large mayor issue was on the city ballot in March 1976. She said it passed with just over 69% of the votes. Here is the voter guide argument that apparently persuaded Monrovians to adopt the change (no argument was filed against the measure):

The complexity of societal problems has forced citizens to re-evaluate their rules in the democratic process.

Today, more than ever, governmental decisions affect the daily lives of all of our citizens. In such an environment it becomes necessary for society to take steps to insure that their elected officials exert greater leadership and become responsive to the majority will. The Mayor, as the titular head of the community, is in the best position to reflect majority opinion, although the powers and general duties of an elected mayor and councilmen are the same, his responsibilities and opportunities for exerting leadership are greater by virtue of the position he occupies. In this light, many neighboring have gone to an elected mayoral system so that citizens may be able too insure that their Mayor has the necessary abilities, time, energy and leadership qualities for such an important office. Responsiveness is also mandated by the people, for the Mayor will have to answer to those who directly elected him.

Our present system, council selection of Mayor, does not adequately provide for Mayor responsiveness, nor does it insure us that such an important position will be filled by a person possessing all of the desirable qualities. Without proper democratic controls, citizens cannot be certain that a council selected Mayor will truly represent the wishes of the people.

The election of Mayor will not cause a change in our present council manager form of government, but it will provide our citizens with a meaningful choice and not leave such an important selection open to chance. An elected Mayor will become directly responsive and responsible to the people. Only by this method can we be certain to gain the community leadership needed in a complex society.

VOTE YES

R.L. DICK MOUNTJOY


- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Relief Agency Begins Vanuatu Aid

Monrovia Christian relief organization, World Vision, reports that it has begun the distribution of emergency supplies after a Category 5 cyclone slammed into Vanuatu in the Pacific earlier this week.

Mike Wolfe, World Vision's national director in Vanuatu reported: "Just severe devastation everywhere you looked. The trees were stripped bare, broken branches everywhere, and many of the homes we saw were completely destroyed." http://www.worldvision.org/press-release/world-vision-reaches-remote-island-vanuatu-finds-utter-devastation

- Brad Haugaard

Boys & Girls Club Youth To Be Honored

On Friday, March 20, the 2015 Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills "Youth of the Year" will be recognized at the annual awards celebration. Presented by DoubleTree by Hilton - Monrovia and chaired by Donna Baker, the ceremony will take place from 5:30-7:00 pm, in the ballroom of the DoubleTree at 924 W. Huntington Drive. The event is free and open to the public, though reservations are required.

The event honors club members who, with the help of their club, have met obstacles head-on and, despite the odds, have given back to their club and community. Youth of the Year winners demonstrate service to Club, community and family; academic success; strong moral character; life goals; and poise and public speaking ability. Local Youth of the Year winners receive a $500 scholarship and then go on to compete at the county, state and national levels.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia PD Helps Rescue Woman Held in Mexico | Champion and Giggle | Montgomery Honored

In his weekly report City Manager Oliver Chi reports that ...

~ Monrovia Police worked with the State Department and Mexican government to free a US citizen held against her will in Mexico.

~ With Champion Cable's Monrovia operations being shut down, if all the company's customers switched to satellite television, "the City would stand to lose somewhere around $60k-$70k / year in franchise fees, while KGEM would lose around $30k / year." The city is talking with Champion successor Giggle Fiber.

~ Assembly Member Roger Hernandez has announced his selection of Joanne Montgomery as Women of the Year for Monrovia. Montgomery is Monrovia's representative on the Citrus College board.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Drugs, Stealing Copper, Stealing Cell Phones, Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 12-15. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events. 

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
March 12 at 5:53 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the area of Shamrock and East Colorado, when he observed a known male subject standing in a park, clenching his fists open and closed, repeatedly, acting very nervous, and scanning the park. The officers contacted the subject and detained him. A second officer responded to assist. When he thought the officers were not looking, the subject attempted to toss a small bindle, which was later found to contain methamphetamine. Through investigation, the subject was determined to be under the influence of a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody. Upon searching the suspect, another bindle of methamphetamine was located on his person. 

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
March 12 at 6:26 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a park in the 300 block of North Grand Avenue on the report of possible drug activity. The officer located a male adult subject in the area and detained him. A computer check revealed the subject had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. The suspect was arrested for the warrant. 

Possession of Methamphetamine / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
March 12 at 8:42 p.m., an officer on patrol contacted a suspicious female in the area of Foothill & Madison. A subsequent investigation revealed the female to be in possession of methamphetamine and a glass pipe used for smoking methamphetamine. She also had an outstanding warrant for her arrest. The subject was arrested for the above listed charges. 

Receiving Stolen Property / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia / Conspiracy to Commit Theft / Identity Theft – Suspect Arrested
March 13 at 9:22 a.m., an officer was following up on search warrants he had written regarding a commercial burglary. His search led him to a hotel in Baldwin Park, where he located a female subject. During the contact, there was drug paraphernalia and items which were very likely stolen, in plain view. After a consent search, items were found indicating that the female at the location was an accomplice to the suspect in the case. The female was arrested and evidence was collected. 

Miscellaneous Theft From Metro Rail
March 13 at 10:03 a.m., unknown suspects stole 20 feet of negative return copper wire by cutting it from the ground near the Metro tracks and Mayflower sometime between March 12 at 3:30 p.m. and March 13 at 7:00 a.m. The suspects left behind a saw blade, box cutter and a work glove. The investigation is continuing. 

Theft of Cell Phones – Suspects Arrested
March 13 at 3:24 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the High School in the 800 block of West Colorado regarding stolen cell phones. Two female students left class with permission. They went to a locker room and located two backpacks that did not belong to them. They looked in the backpacks and removed two cell phones, one each. Other students observed them leaving the area, just prior to the victims returning. School staff located the two females and they still had the stolen phones in their possession. The suspects were arrested, taken into custody and later released on citation to their parents. 

Violation of a Restraining Order – Suspect Arrested
March 13 at 7:42 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 300 block of South Myrtle and saw a subject he knew had a restraining order on file which prohibits him from being within 100 yards of the location he was at. The officer confirmed the restraining order and arrested the subject. 

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 14 at 1:29 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 500 block of South Myrtle and observed a motorist swerving on the roadway and failing to signal while making a turn. The officer conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle and determined the driver to be driving under the influence. The driver was arrested. 

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 14 at 2:12 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 800 block of Wildrose and observed a motorist swerving in the roadway and failing to signal while making a turn. The officer conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle and discovered the driver to be under the influence. The driver was arrested for driving under the influence. 

Felony Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 14 at 4:12 a.m., officers were sent to the 800 block of West Walnut regarding a traffic collision involving injuries. The investigation revealed an intoxicated driver was attempting to drive away from the location and his friend was trying to prevent him from leaving. The friend was standing between the open driver’s door and the vehicle, when the driver suddenly accelerated and crashed into two unoccupied, parked vehicles. The friend was knocked to the ground and sustained head injuries. The driver sustained lacerations to his head and mouth. Both subjects were taken to local hospitals for treatment. The driver was arrested for DUI. 

Family Disturbance / Battery – Suspect Arrested
March 14 at 9:56 p.m., officers were called to a residence in the 1000 block of South Mountain regarding a family disturbance. The investigation revealed that a battery to a dependant adult had occurred. The victim's adult son was arrested and Adult Protective Services was contacted. 

Disturbing Subjects / Drunk in Public – Suspects Arrested
March 14 at 11:02 p.m., officers responded to the 100 block of East Colorado on the report of two subjects fighting. Investigation revealed the subjects were not fighting, but were both extremely intoxicated. The subjects were arrested for being drunk in public and held for a sobering period. 

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 15 at 2:32 a.m., a vehicle was stopped for a vehicle code violation at Mountain and Evergreen. The investigation revealed the driver was driving under the influence and she was arrested and taken into custody. 

Drunk in Public – Suspect Arrested
March 15 at 9:36 p.m., officers were called to the 200 block of East Evergreen regarding an intoxicated subject passed out in the grass. The officer determined that the subject was unable to care for himself. He was arrested for being drunk in public and held for sobering. 

Mental Evaluation
March 16 at 12:40 a.m., officers were dispatched to a location in the 400 block of Hurstview regarding a subject breaking out windows. The subject has been diagnosed as schizophrenic and was acting violent toward his parents and causing damage to the home. The subject was taken to a hospital and held for a 72-hour mental evaluation. 

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
March 16 at 1:06 a.m., an officer made a traffic stop on a vehicle for a vehicle code violation at Madison and Foothill. The female occupant in the vehicle was determined to be under the influence of a controlled substance and was arrested. 

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
March 16 at 3:27 a.m., an officer on patrol in the 500 block of West Huntington noticed a suspicious subject behind a stack of used tires. He stopped and contacted the subject. A computer check of the subject revealed an outstanding warrant for his arrest. A search of the subject’s vehicle uncovered over 200 gift cards that are being held for observation to determine if they are fraudulent or stolen. 

Monrovia Band Fundraiser | Orpheus Play

~ The MHS band will hold a fundraiser yard sale Saturday, March 21 at 608 W. Palm Drive. Finds will go to fix and purchase instruments, new uniforms, music scores, and to hire sectional and colorguard instructors.

~ Opera Animata will present a semi-staged production of Christoph Willibald Gluck's three-act Orfeo e Eurydice - based on the myth of Orpheus - with chamber orchestra on Friday and Saturday, March 20 and 21 at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 122 South California Avenue at Foothill. Tickets at operaanimata.com.

- Brad Haugaard

Many Staff of Monrovia Relief Agency Unaccounted for Following Cyclone

The Christian relief organization, World Vision, which is partly based in Monrovia, reports that it has only been able to contact 26 of its 80 staff on the island of Vaniatu following Cyclone Pam severely damaging the island. http://goo.gl/ccxUXG

- Brad Haugaard

Bad Water Update

At its next meeting the Monrovia City Council (agenda: http://goo.gl/cZ7eqw ) will, among other things, get an update on the draining of dirty water into the ground at a city water well site.

- Brad Haugaard

What Will Happen to Monrovia's Cable Channel KGEM?

Robert Parry posts on Facebook that he has received a letter from Champion Broadband saying it is shutting down its Monrovia service. And he asks, "How do we preserve KGEM?" 

Brian Johnson adds: "KGEM is supported by the fees the cable companies pay to the city as part of their licensing.  I don't think the satellite companies pay those fees.  So, no cable, no KGEM."

UPDATE: Mayor Mary Ann Lutz writes, "I asked the City Manager to invite Mark Haverkate from Giggle to our next Council meeting. He has accepted and will be at the City Council Meeting on March 17."

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Wang's Place

Dinner recently at Wang's Place, on the south side of Lemon a half block east of Myrtle. Got the Lemon Chicken for $12 and a beer for $5. Nice.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Water Leaks | Mayoral Forum | Drones to Ukraine

~ City reports number of water leaks rising. http://goo.gl/NGcuNJ

~ Report on the mayoral forum. http://goo.gl/DYFdgO

~ Drones made by Monrovia's AeroVironment part of package Obama sending to Ukraine.

- Brad Haugaard

BB Breaks Window; Drunk Shoplifting; Etc.

During the last seven-day period, March 9-11, the Police Department handled 400 service events, resulting in 85 investigations.

Vandalism

March 9 at 7:34 p.m., an officer responded to a residence in the 400 block of Monrovista on the report of a vandalism. A second story window of an apartment unit was shattered with a metal BB or similar type object sometime during the day. No one was home when the vandalism occurred.

Petty Theft / Drunk in Public – Suspect Arrested

March 11 at 8:40 a.m., a business in the 200 block of East Huntington called police to report a theft of liquor. A female suspect ran from the store with a stolen bottle of gin. She was quickly located by officers and arrested for shoplifting and being drunk in public.

Drunk in Public – Suspect Arrested

March 12 at 2:09 a.m., police received a call reporting a male subject in the 200 block of East Lemon that was yelling and causing a disturbance. Officers arrived and located the subject. He was determined to be intoxicated and unable to care for himself. He was arrested for being drunk in public and held for sobering. 

Filharmonic Performing at Monrovia High School | CODA Gets CEO

~ The Filharmonic will be performing at the Renaissance Foundation in Monrovia on Friday, April 10, at the high school. http://goo.gl/K2w5yp

~ Monrovia's CODA Energy Names Paul Detering as first CEO. http://goo.gl/o0uj8u

- Brad Haugaard

Warm Weekend in Monrovia

Should be getting up to an unseasonable 90 degrees this weekend. http://goo.gl/Tz07kW

- Brad Haugaard

Free California Gardening Seminar at Monrovia Canyon Park

On March 14, 2015, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., the City of Monrovia will be hosting a FREE California Friendly Landscaping Training at the Canyon Park Cabin Conference Center at 1200 North Canyon Blvd. A representative from the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California will teach participants six steps to a California-friendly, drought tolerant yard.

Topics include: Using a Holistic Approach to Gardening; Building a Living Soil Sponge; Rethinking Elements of Your Site; Right Plant, Right Place; Using Rainwater as a Resource; Managing Irrigation

Source: City of Monrovia press release

- Brad Haugaard

Tiles Found to Repair Fountain | fire Services for Sierra Madre? | Power Outage | Older Monrovian

In a report to the community, Monrovia City Manager Oliver Chi reports that...

~ Sophia Nakov, who works at the Monrovia Recreation Division, found the historic tiles needed to complete repairs on the Library Park wishing well in Frankfort, Illinois. MOHPG representatives will begin the final repairs on March 14 and should be done within a few days.

~ Sierra Madre is asking Monrovia and Arcadia to consider providing it with contract Fire Battalion Chief services. "At this point," Chi writes, "we are still waiting on more concrete details related to the types of service that Sierra Madre will need."

~ There will be a power outage for system maintenance on Saturday, March 14, that will affect parts of downtown on Myrtle Avenue, with the power scheduled to be out beginning at 10 p.m. on March 14 and back on by 8 a.m. on March 15.

~ Monrovia's Department of Community Services is accepting nominations for the 2015 Older American of the Year Award. Qualifications: 60 or older and involved in volunteer service. Send nominations by Friday, March 20, to the Department of Community Services, 119 West Palm Avenue, Monrovia, CA 91016 – Attention: Rebecca Romero.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Mayoral Candidates Forum

The Monrovia Mayoral Candidates Forum is tonight, March 10, at 6 p.m. in the Monrovia City Council Chambers at 415 South Ivy. Hosted by the Monrovia Chamber and facilitated by the Pasadena League of Women Voters.

- Brad Haugaard

Clifton Fundraiser | New Board Member at Mt. Sierra

~ Clifton's Band and Spirit Marcher Bake Sale Fundraiser will be held this Saturday, March 14, from 11-2 pm in front of Pavilions on Foothill Blvd. in Monrovia. Besides the home baked goodies we will have the Clefton Six ensemble performing. 

~ Monrovia's Mt. Sierra College has appointed a new member to its Board of Directors, Screenwriter, Director, Ms. Xialu (Lulu) Xue, currently the Associate Professor and Graduate Study Program Supervisor in the Literature Department of Beijing Film Academy. http://goo.gl/OlndL1

 

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Lots of Overdrinking

Monrovia police activity for March 5-8. 

Commercial Burglary

March 6 at 9:22 a.m., an employee from a hotel in the 900 block of South Fifth Avenue called police to report a burglary. Sometime during the night, unknown suspects broke into the locked housekeeping closets that are located on three different floors and stole several items, including paint and electronic equipment. The suspect then fled without being seen. This investigation is continuing.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested

March 6 at 9:22 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 200 block of Montana, when he made contact with a suspicious male subject who had an outstanding warrant for his arrest issued out of Monrovia. The officer arrested the suspect and took him into custody.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested

March 7 at 11:38 p.m., dispatch received a call reporting a male subject walking down the center of Myrtle Avenue, swaying as he walked. Officers responded and located the subject at the intersection of Maple and Myrtle Avenues. The subject was determined to be extremely intoxicated and was not able to care for himself. He was arrested for being drunk in public and held for sobering.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested

March 8 at 12:02 a.m., a resident in the 100 Block of East Evergreen called to report her front vehicle gate had been opened and a male adult was lying on the driveway near the open gate. An officer responded and found the subject had passed out and smelled of alcohol. The officer was able to wake the subject, but he could not walk without assistance. He was arrested for being drunk in public and held for sobering.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested

March 8 at 3:35 a.m., an officer on patrol observed a vehicle driving very slow, heading north on Myrtle Avenue. The officer stopped the vehicle at Myrtle and Live Oak and discovered the driver had been drinking. Through investigation, the driver was determined to be driving under the influence and was arrested.

 Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested

March 9 at 12:11 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 300 block of South California regarding a fight in progress. Upon arrival, officers located one subject who was extremely intoxicated. He was arrested for being drunk in public and held for sobering.

Felony Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol / Injury Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
March 9 at 12:58 a.m., officers responded to the area of Duarte Road and Walker regarding a traffic collision. Witnesses reported the vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed and ran a red light at Myrtle, nearly colliding with northbound vehicles. The vehicle lost control near Walker, rolled and came to rest on its side with three occupants inside the vehicle. All three subjects were intoxicated and were taken to a hospital for complaint of pain and minor injuries. The driver was arrested for felony drunk driving. 

Independent Lab Confirms Monrovia Water Is Good

From city press release

On Thursday, February 26, 2015, Monrovia City Officials were made aware of alleged unlawful disposal of wastewater at the City's main water well field located at 2655 South Myrtle Avenue. Upon discovery of this practice, the City immediately initiated a comprehensive review of the overall situation to ensure that stringent water quality and safety standards are maintained. This review included the retention of a third-party contractor, Clinical Laboratories, to perform additional testing of the City's water.

On Tuesday, March 3, Clinical Laboratories conducted thorough tests of Monrovia's water supply. The tests were conducted at all City water collection, holding, and distribution sites, and the test results showed that the entire water supply in Monrovia is sanitary and safe. This third-party report supports the results that have been determined through the City's ongoing monthly testing processes, which has shown that Monrovia's water supply consistently meets or exceeds State and Federal drinking water standards.

Moving forward, to ensure that the City is taking proactive measures regarding the safety of our water, the City will be implementing bi-weekly testing to ensure that our water continues to meet or exceed every State and Federal drinking water standard. Also, the Water Utilities Operation in the City will be preparing an overall water report on a quarterly basis, rather than on an annual basis, as an added layer of public communication.

Current water testing information, including our Annual Water Reports as well as the updated reports provided by Clinical Laboratories, can be found on our city website at www.cityofmonrovia.org.


- Brad Haugaard

Rita's Opening in Monrovia

Rita's of Monrovia is opening March 12 in the Sprouts shopping center. Italian ice, frozen custard, etc. http://goo.gl/DhEUX6

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia School Board Agenda

On the agenda for the next school board meeting ( http://goo.gl/sUfPqB ):

- Review of supplemental algebra and geometry curriculum materials.

- Enrollment and staffing projections.

- Interim financial report.

Boys Soccer Wins COF | Historic Walking Tour of Old Monrovia Planned

~ Monrovia boys soccer wins CIF title with 1-0 win over South Pas. http://goo.gl/J9mgiC

~ The Monrovia Historic Preservation Group will lead its first walking tour of downtown Monrovia on Saturday, May 16, at 10 a.m., as part of the Monrovia Days celebration. The tour will begin at the corner of Palm and Myrtle, go down to Olive Avenue (4 blocks) and back. The tour is expected to last 1 1/2 hours. The tour includes a history of the downtown area as well as the history behind the development of Monrovia itself. Tickets are $5 per person (12 and under free). Reservations required. Go here ( http://goo.gl/n80u3u ) to reserve a space.

- Brad Haugaard

Trader Joe's Best | Monrovia Boy's Soccer in Championship Battle

~ Monrovia's Trader Joe's named best grocer in the country. http://goo.gl/BsQrUQ

~ Monrovia boys soccer faces off against South Pasadena in CIF championship game. http://goo.gl/4XXiTR

- Brad Haugaard

BearVid | Monrovia Y Fundraiser | City Income from Canyon Park

~ Another Monrovia bear video. http://goo.gl/GkOj1r

~ A fundraiser for the Santa Anita Family YMCA will be held Wednesday, March 18 at 5:30 p.m. at Pacific Plate Brewery, 1999 S. Myrtle Ave. in Monrovia. 239-8456

~ Parking fees for Monrovia Canyon Park brought in $125,106 in the 2013-14 fiscal year. http://goo.gl/d5TSHf

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Council Forum Video | Barks and Books

~If you missed it, here is a video of the Monrovia City Council Candidates Forum. http://goo.gl/VmBllo

~ Barks & Books, Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA's reading enrichment program, branches out to the Monrovia Public Library starting Monday, March 16. Barks & Books makes reading fun, boosts confidence and encourages respectful, humane treatment for all animals for children ages 5 to 12. PHS Volunteer Judy and her canine companion Daisy will meet at the library on the third Monday of every month at 4 p.m.

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Domenico's

Dinner at Domenico's, on the south side of Huntington just east of Magnolia. Got the spaghetti with meatballs for $14.95 and a beer for $7.50. Domenico's is an old-fashioned Italian restaurant. Nothing trendy about it, but I liked it.

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia City Manager Oliver Chi On Lost Grants

Here is the presentation City Manager Oliver Chi gave regarding the various grants the city has had then lost. http://goo.gl/V5r6t2

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Boys Soccer to Championship | Kittleson Announces Endorsements

~ Monrovia Boys Soccer wins a trip to the CIF Southern Section Division VI championship match. http://goo.gl/TGOhAl

~ Monrovia City Council candidate Jordan Kittleson writes that he has rounded up endorsements from: Los Angeles County Business Federation; Jack Orswell, 2014 Republican Congressional Nominee (CA-27); Dr. Paul Chabot, 2014 Republican Congressional Nominee (CA-31); Mountain View GOP; State Senator Bob Huff; Retired State Senator Bob Dutton; Upland Councilwoman Carol Timm; San Bernardino Councilman John Valdivia.

Note: If any other candidate wants to send me a list of endorsements (please, no more than 10) send them to me.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia City Council Candidate Forum Tonight

I just wanted to remind everybody that there will be a Monrovia City Council Candidate Forum tonight, March, 4 at 6 p.m. in the Monrovia City Council Chambers, 415 South Ivy. It will be hosted by the Monrovia Chamber and facilitated by the Pasadena League of Women Voters. I'd like to attend, but unfortunately, I will not be able to. This does not involve the race for mayor. The candidate forum for the mayoral race will be Tuesday, March, 10 at 6 p.m. also in the Monrovia City Council Chambers.

- Brad Haugaard

Report on Grants Monrovia Has Lost; Criminal Charges in One Case

City Manager Oliver Chi reported on three different grants that the city received but did not use until the grants expired, meaning the money was lost. In one case - a downtown streetscape grant - criminal charges were filed against a former city employee for filing false progress reports on the project. Chi did say that the city may be able to get a re-grant on one of the grants. Chu's full report should be posted on the city website soon.

- Brad Haugaard

Bakery Coming to Old Town Monrovia

According to a speaker at tonight's City Council meeting, the former Monrovia Bakery will again become a bakery, to be called Frost My Cake.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovian on Let's Make a Deal

CBS reports that Monrovian Alzaharaa Mouzon will be on CBS' Let's Make a Deal on Wednesday, March 11.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's AeroVironment Reports Lower Q3 Earnings

Monrovia's AeroVironment today reported third quarter earnings of $2.3 million compared with $11.2 million last year. http://goo.gl/CNnSBa

- Brad Haugaard

STAAR Gets New CEO | Monrovia's First Lutheran Hosting Craft Fair

~ Monrovia's STAAR Surgical Company, which makes implantable lenses for the eye, has named Caren Mason President and Chief Executive Officer effective immediately. Ms. Mason, who was elected to STAAR's Board of Directors in June 2014, and was appointed by the Board to chair the Quality and Regulatory Committee in September 2014, replaces Barry G. Caldwell who retired as of March 1, 2015. http://goo.gl/x56MYs

~ First Lutheran Church at 1323 S Magnolia is having a multi-church craft fair on Saturday, April 25, from 2-5 p.m. There will be easy family-friendly crafts to make, items to purchase, and food to buy.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Has Been Draining Unclean Water into Soil Above Drinking Water Pump

Map key: The green line encloses the French drain; the red area is for trash containers with a pipe leading to the French drain, and the blue area is where vehicles are washed.

Note: I sent the following article to Monrovia City Manager Oliver Chi and Public Works Director Tina Cherry for comment, and received the response directly below my article.

My Article ...

Is Monrovia draining dirty water from trash and sewer-truck clean-outs directly into the ground above its water well at the corner of Peck Road and Jeffries Avenue?

According to a source, a city supervisor was placed on administrative leave last Thursday as a result of what is apparently a continuing investigation.

I am told that apparently all the drinking water coming from the well is still clean, but will it remain so as wash-water slowly percolates down to the point where it would be pumped out?

According to my source, water from leaky trash containers goes down a pipe which leads to a "French drain," a perforated underground pipe surrounded by gravel. The water goes out through the holes in the pipe, through the gravel, and sinks into the soil.

I'm told that the sewage truck - which I occasionally see pumping out the septic tanks at the rest rooms in Monrovia Canyon Park because the sewer line from the park does not work - is emptied into a main line of the sewer system, then is rinsed and again drained into the sewer system. But then it is rinsed a second time, and the water from this second rinsing is dumped on the ground near the French drain. Definitely better than dumping raw sewage there, but still not clean water.

My source said this water is supposed to be drained into the sewer system (a sewer line runs along the north side of the property) and not leached into the ground, and that elected officials have not been aware of this issue.


The City's Response ...

On Thursday, February 26, 2015, Monrovia City officials were made aware of alleged unlawful disposal of wastewater at the City’s main water well field located at 2265 South Myrtle Avenue. Upon discovery of this information, the City immediately initiated a comprehensive review of the overall situation to ensure that stringent water quality and safety standards are maintained. This review included the retention of a third-party contractor to perform additional testing of the City’s water and the hiring of a third party investigator to perform a comprehensive investigation into the allegation. That same day, one supervisor was placed on paid administrative leave, pending the completion of the review.

It is important to emphasize that ongoing monthly testing shows that Monrovia’s water supply consistently meets or exceeds State and Federal drinking water standards. Our most recent monthly report attests to the fact that the City’s water is safe for consumption, and the alleged unlawful disposal of wastewater has not impacted the safety of Monrovia’s water.

Furthermore, the City employs multiple additional layers of water testing to ensure that Monrovia’s water is safe for human consumption. In addition to monthly testing, the City performs Annual Water Reports, tests water nitrogen levels monthly, and conducts additional daily monitoring of our water production operation. These ongoing efforts help to ensure that the water provided to Monrovia customers is not only safe, but meets or exceeds every State and Federal drinking water standard. Moving forward, to ensure that the City is taking proactive measures regarding the safety of our water, the City will be implementing bi-weekly testing to ensure that our water continues to meet or exceed every State and Federal drinking water standard. Internally, the Water Utilities Operation in the City will be preparing an overall water report on a quarterly basis, rather than on an annual basis, as an added layer of public communication.

Furthermore, the City has made plans to hire a third party contractor to perform immediate environmental testing of our water facility site where the alleged disposal occurred. The tests will include taking samples from the City’s water and the soils surrounding the water facility site. Also, the City will be contacting the Regional Water Quality Control Board to make them aware of the situation and the details of all actions being taken to address the issue. Additionally, the investigator will also look deeper into the situation and ensure that all proper mitigation measures are being taken.

In an effort to distribute information to the public, the City will also continue to make all reports available to the public. Current water testing information, including our Annual Water Reports, can be found on our city website at www.cityofmonrovia.org. Finally, in an effort to enhance all services provided to the community, the City has been working on a proposed reorganization. This proposed plan includes the addition of a Utility General Manager to ensure additional attention and oversight of all utility functions.

The City of Monrovia is taking this matter very seriously and we are implementing robust response measures to ensure the safety and quality of our community’s water source. We will continue to have updates on the city website (www.cityofmonrovia.org) to keep the public apprised of the situation.

Monrovia Police: Off His Meds; De-Mail Man; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for February 26 – March 1. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

72-Hour Mental Evaluation
February 26 at 5:35 p.m., police responded to the report of a male subject in his twenties, walking down Myrtle, talking to himself and holding a sharpened stick. He entered a local restaurant on Myrtle with the sharpened stick and continued to act in a bizarre manner. Police arrived and contacted the subject. He was determined to be off his required medication and a danger to himself and others. Monrovia Fire Department paramedics were summoned, as the subject began to complain of chest pains. He was taken to a hospital to be medically checked and held for 72-hour mental evaluation.

Outstanding Warrant – Suspect Arrest
February 26 at 8:00 a.m., an officer was sent to the 1200 block of South Myrtle on the report of a subject causing a disturbance. The officer contacted the subject and discovered he had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. The subject was arrested for the warrant and taken into custody.

Outstanding Warrants / Mental Evaluation – Suspect Arrested
February 27 at 11:49 a.m., a male subject was reportedly removing mail from business mailboxes in the 500 block of South Myrtle and throwing the mail on the ground. He was also reportedly making vague threats to people in the downtown area of Monrovia. Officers responded and detained the subject. He had outstanding warrants for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody for the warrants, and then taken to a hospital, where he could be evaluated for his abnormal behavior and threats to harm people. He was held for 72-hour mental evaluation.

Outstanding Warrant – Suspect Arrested
February 27 at 3:42 p.m., an officer observed a male subject he recognized at the corner of Buena Vista and Huntington Drive in the City of Duarte. He believed the subject had an outstanding warrant. A computer check confirmed the subject did have a warrant for his arrest on a Monrovia Police Department case, with a bail set for $50,000.00. The officer detained and arrested the subject without incident.

Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
February 27 at 8:12 p.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 100 block of West Foothill Boulevard regarding a fight in progress. Upon arrival, officers detained several subjects in the parking lot. One subject was found to be in possession of a hypodermic syringe and heroin. The suspect was arrested for the drug related offenses and taken into custody. No arrests were made in reference to the initial fight call.

Grand Theft Auto / Stolen Vehicle Recovered – Suspects Arrested
February 28 at 1:18 a.m., officers responded to a business complex in the 2600 block of California Avenue to investigate the report of a male subject in dark clothing walking around the complex. When officers arrived, they located two subjects and a motor home parked to the rear of the complex, hidden from the street and public view. Officers immediately checked the plate of the vehicle and it had been reported stolen. One of the suspects admitted to taking the vehicle. The second suspect was found to have checks on his person belonging to the victims of the stolen vehicle. Both suspects were arrested and the vehicle was returned to the victims.

Vehicle Burglary
February 28 at 3:41 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 400 block of West Central Avenue. A vehicle was broken into and a backpack with an iPad in it was stolen. Police were able to track the iPad to the 200 block of West Palm Avenue in Monrovia. Officers responded and began searching. They located a backpack matching the description of the stolen item in plain view inside the cab of a pickup truck. The victim responded to the location and confirmed the item was hers. The vehicle was taken to the Monrovia Police Department, where it was stored for evidence. A search warrant will be written to recover the property from the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Outstanding Warrant – Suspect Arrested
February 28 at 10:00 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a park in the 400 block of North Grand on the report of suspicious subjects loitering in the area. Upon contacting the subjects, one of them was found to have an outstanding warrant for his arrest. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.