Monrovia's AeroVironment has reported higher revenue but lower profit. Details: http://goo.gl/bwNpAC
- Brad Haugaard
Former Monrovia Police Lieutenant Zeke Cerecerez Dies
It is with heartfelt sadness that the Monrovia Police Department bids goodbye to one of its most beloved, longtime members. Retired Lieutenant Zeke Cerecerez passed away from natural causes on June 29, 2015.
Lieutenant Zeke Cerecerez served the community of Monrovia and the Monrovia Police Department for 29 years. He began his career in 1985 and only just recently retired from the department in September of 2014. Throughout his career, Zeke served in a variety of assignments including: Training Officer, Canine Officer, SWAT Officer, Special Enforcement Team Sergeant running a gang and narcotics unit, Community Policing Sergeant, and a Patrol Watch Commander as a Lieutenant.
Prior to his law enforcement career serving the citizens of Monrovia, Zeke had an illustrious military career serving his country as an active-duty Navy Seal and a U.S. Navy Reserve Explosive Ordinance Diver. He also served as a U.S. Army Reserve Special Forces Sergeant.
Lieutenant Cerecerez is survived by his wife, three sons and their families. Lieutenant Zeke Cerecerez was one of Monrovia Police Department’s finest and he will be greatly missed.
Source: Monrovia Police press release
- Brad Haugaard
How Route 66 Wandered Through Monrovia
You probably knew that old Route 66 passed through Monrovia, but you may not have known that at first it took a somewhat circuitous route. As the latest issue of the Monrovia Historical Preservation Group explains:
"As travelers from the east arrived in town along Huntington Drive, the route initially turned right on Shamrock Avenue to Foothill Boulevard, then turned left and continued to Santa Anita Avenue, again turning left to rejoin Huntington. That path was altered in 1933 to remain on Huntington as it passed through Monrovia."
- Brad Haugaard
"As travelers from the east arrived in town along Huntington Drive, the route initially turned right on Shamrock Avenue to Foothill Boulevard, then turned left and continued to Santa Anita Avenue, again turning left to rejoin Huntington. That path was altered in 1933 to remain on Huntington as it passed through Monrovia."
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia's Mayflower School Wins $20,000 | Holden Franchise Bill Advances
~ Monrovia's Mayflower Elementary School has won $20,000 for playground equipment from Dr Pepper Snapple Group and KaBOOM! The contest involved getting Monrovian's to vote online for the school, and Mayflower rounded up enough votes to come in number one.
~ A bill by Assembly member Chris Holden, who represents Monrovia, to protect small business franchise owners has been approved in Senate Business, Professions and Economic Development Committee on a 6 to 1 vote. AB 525 makes it more difficult for chains to terminate franchise operators.
- Brad Haugaard
~ A bill by Assembly member Chris Holden, who represents Monrovia, to protect small business franchise owners has been approved in Senate Business, Professions and Economic Development Committee on a 6 to 1 vote. AB 525 makes it more difficult for chains to terminate franchise operators.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Meth Involved in Home Break-In; Burglaries; DUIs; Stealing a Bike to Shoplift; Air Support Tracks Bike Theft
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for June 25-28. - Brad Haugaard]
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Petty Theft – Suspect Arrested
June 25 at 4:14 p.m., officers were dispatched to a residence in the 900 block of South California regarding a juvenile taking a delivered FedEx box from a porch. The officer arrived and located the suspect in a park across the street. The suspect was positively identified by a witness to the theft; he was arrested and taken into custody. The suspect was later cited out to a parent.
Theft From a Vehicle
June 26 at 8:42 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported at a residence in the 700 block of West Huntington. The victim had parked his truck in his driveway, but forgot to put the lock on the outer toolbox. Miscellaneous tools were stolen from the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
June 26 at 11:09 a.m., two vehicles were reported burglarized in the 900 block of South Primrose. The reporting party’s company had parked two trucks in front of the location at approximately 8:00 p.m. All of the tool boxes, windows and doors were secured. The next morning at 8:00 a.m., an employee came to work and saw both vehicles had been broken into, ransacked, and miscellaneous equipment had been stolen. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
June 26 at 9:02 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported at a business parking lot in the 500 block of West Huntington Drive. The victim parked and went into a store. He returned to his vehicle approximately an hour later and saw his vehicle, a white Escalade, had been broken into and the third row seat was missing. The investigation is continuing.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 27 at 12:24 a.m., officers conducted a traffic stop on the 210 Freeway, just past the Myrtle onramp. During the contact, the officer observed several signs that the driver had been drinking. After investigation, the driver was determined to be driving under the influence of alcohol and was arrested, taken into custody, and held for sobering.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 27 at 1:11 a.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop in the 400 block of West Huntington for a vehicle code violation. During the contact, the officer determined the driver had been drinking and was intoxicated. The driver was arrested for DUI and held for sobering.
Bicycle Theft/Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
June 27 at 3:16 p.m., an officer was flagged down by the victim of a bicycle theft that had just occurred in Duarte. The officer obtained a detailed description of the bike, then directed the subject to the Sheriff's substation to report the theft. The officer drove west on Huntington Drive and saw a male subject riding a bike that matched the exact description of the stolen bicycle. He followed the suspect to a business and saw the suspect drop the bike as he went into the store. When the male exited the store, he was detained. It was quickly discovered that the suspect had just shoplifted from the store. The suspect was positively identified by the victim as the suspect who stole the bicycle; he was arrested for both crimes and taken into custody.
Possession of Methamphetamine/Suspicious Circumstances – Suspect Arrested
June 27 at 8:31 p.m., a resident from the 600 block of West Maple called police to report a male adult subject had burst through a door at their residence yelling for help; he appeared bloody, disoriented and scared. The subject ran down a hallway and into a bedroom. The residents went into another bedroom, closed the door and called police. Officers responded, set up containment of the area and requested additional resources. Officers from Irwindale and Arcadia responded to assist in the search, along with a canine unit from Glendora and the Foothill Air Support Team helicopter.
Officers determined the location of the residents and rescued them. The suspect had gone out the window of the bedroom and broke into a second location, where he was found by officers, hiding in the garage. During a search of the suspect, he was found to be in possession of methamphetamine; he was arrested and taken into custody. The suspect claimed to have been involved in a confrontation with another male subject armed with a gun. Police have not been able to substantiate the information reported by the suspect. The investigation is continuing.
Residential Burglary
June 28 at 1:50 p.m., officers responded to a residence in the 500 block of Sombrero regarding a possible burglary. A neighbor noticed an unsecured door and knew the residents were not home. When officers entered the residence, they found it had been ransacked. The suspects had stolen jewelry and cash from the home. The Investigation is continuing.
Stolen Vehicle
June 28 at 2:35 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 200 block of West Lemon. The victim had parked and locked her vehicle in the rear alley behind her residence at approximately 8:00 a.m. She returned to her vehicle at 2:35 p.m. and it was gone. The vehicle stolen is a 2013 Toyota RAV4. The Investigation is continuing.
Stolen Bicycle – Suspect Arrested
June 28 at 3:51 p.m., a bicycle theft in progress was reported at business in the 100 block of East Olive. The suspect threw the bicycle in a vehicle and fled. The Foothill Air Support Team helicopter responded to assist in the search, and the vehicle and stolen bicycle were located in the backyard of a residence in Baldwin Park. The suspect exited the rear of the residence and was arrested and taken into custody.
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Petty Theft – Suspect Arrested
June 25 at 4:14 p.m., officers were dispatched to a residence in the 900 block of South California regarding a juvenile taking a delivered FedEx box from a porch. The officer arrived and located the suspect in a park across the street. The suspect was positively identified by a witness to the theft; he was arrested and taken into custody. The suspect was later cited out to a parent.
Theft From a Vehicle
June 26 at 8:42 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported at a residence in the 700 block of West Huntington. The victim had parked his truck in his driveway, but forgot to put the lock on the outer toolbox. Miscellaneous tools were stolen from the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
June 26 at 11:09 a.m., two vehicles were reported burglarized in the 900 block of South Primrose. The reporting party’s company had parked two trucks in front of the location at approximately 8:00 p.m. All of the tool boxes, windows and doors were secured. The next morning at 8:00 a.m., an employee came to work and saw both vehicles had been broken into, ransacked, and miscellaneous equipment had been stolen. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
June 26 at 9:02 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported at a business parking lot in the 500 block of West Huntington Drive. The victim parked and went into a store. He returned to his vehicle approximately an hour later and saw his vehicle, a white Escalade, had been broken into and the third row seat was missing. The investigation is continuing.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 27 at 12:24 a.m., officers conducted a traffic stop on the 210 Freeway, just past the Myrtle onramp. During the contact, the officer observed several signs that the driver had been drinking. After investigation, the driver was determined to be driving under the influence of alcohol and was arrested, taken into custody, and held for sobering.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 27 at 1:11 a.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop in the 400 block of West Huntington for a vehicle code violation. During the contact, the officer determined the driver had been drinking and was intoxicated. The driver was arrested for DUI and held for sobering.
Bicycle Theft/Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
June 27 at 3:16 p.m., an officer was flagged down by the victim of a bicycle theft that had just occurred in Duarte. The officer obtained a detailed description of the bike, then directed the subject to the Sheriff's substation to report the theft. The officer drove west on Huntington Drive and saw a male subject riding a bike that matched the exact description of the stolen bicycle. He followed the suspect to a business and saw the suspect drop the bike as he went into the store. When the male exited the store, he was detained. It was quickly discovered that the suspect had just shoplifted from the store. The suspect was positively identified by the victim as the suspect who stole the bicycle; he was arrested for both crimes and taken into custody.
Possession of Methamphetamine/Suspicious Circumstances – Suspect Arrested
June 27 at 8:31 p.m., a resident from the 600 block of West Maple called police to report a male adult subject had burst through a door at their residence yelling for help; he appeared bloody, disoriented and scared. The subject ran down a hallway and into a bedroom. The residents went into another bedroom, closed the door and called police. Officers responded, set up containment of the area and requested additional resources. Officers from Irwindale and Arcadia responded to assist in the search, along with a canine unit from Glendora and the Foothill Air Support Team helicopter.
Officers determined the location of the residents and rescued them. The suspect had gone out the window of the bedroom and broke into a second location, where he was found by officers, hiding in the garage. During a search of the suspect, he was found to be in possession of methamphetamine; he was arrested and taken into custody. The suspect claimed to have been involved in a confrontation with another male subject armed with a gun. Police have not been able to substantiate the information reported by the suspect. The investigation is continuing.
Residential Burglary
June 28 at 1:50 p.m., officers responded to a residence in the 500 block of Sombrero regarding a possible burglary. A neighbor noticed an unsecured door and knew the residents were not home. When officers entered the residence, they found it had been ransacked. The suspects had stolen jewelry and cash from the home. The Investigation is continuing.
Stolen Vehicle
June 28 at 2:35 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 200 block of West Lemon. The victim had parked and locked her vehicle in the rear alley behind her residence at approximately 8:00 a.m. She returned to her vehicle at 2:35 p.m. and it was gone. The vehicle stolen is a 2013 Toyota RAV4. The Investigation is continuing.
Stolen Bicycle – Suspect Arrested
June 28 at 3:51 p.m., a bicycle theft in progress was reported at business in the 100 block of East Olive. The suspect threw the bicycle in a vehicle and fled. The Foothill Air Support Team helicopter responded to assist in the search, and the vehicle and stolen bicycle were located in the backyard of a residence in Baldwin Park. The suspect exited the rear of the residence and was arrested and taken into custody.
Monrovia Council Meeting With Supervisor Antonovich
Special Monrovia City Council meeting with Supervisor Michael Antonovich at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, July 1, at the Library Community Room. Topics: County's plan for new jails, Julian Fisher Park, request for supervisors support for Lucinda Garcia Park improvements, and Station Square Park Grand Opening. http://goo.gl/wel0kd
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Bleeding Man Allegedly Breaks Into Monrovia Home
Alleged bleeding intruder detained by police after reportedly breaking down a door to enter a Monrovia home full of people. I think this was on Maple Avenue, a block north of Huntington just off Highway Esplanade. http://goo.gl/Ic2eSI (Thanks to Bard Hori for the tip.)
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Dinner at Pieology
Dinner last night at the new Pieology, at the shopping area on the north side of Huntington at Fifth Ave. It's a build-your-own pizza place, but I got the pre-designed Hickory BBQ Chicken (with some jalapeños I couldn't resist adding) for $7.95 and an iced tea for $1.75. Service was quick and friendly and the pizza was really excellent.
- Brad Haugaard
Fire Danger Rising to 'Very High' in Monrovia Mountains
Starting tomorrow, June 26, the Forest Service is raising the fire danger in the mountains above Monrovia and throughout the region from "high" to "very high," because of fire activity and "drought starved vegetation."effective Friday, June 26. http://goo.gl/aY7ZTl
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Man Falls Off Bike; House TP'd And Burglarized; DUIs
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for June 22-24. - Brad Haugaard]
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 440 service events, resulting in 71 investigations.
Bicycle Accident
June 22 at 9:39 a.m., an officer responded with Monrovia Fire Department paramedics to the dirt fire road in the Angeles National Forest above Monrovia's Canyon Park. A male adult bicyclist reportedly fell off his bike on the trail. This incident was reported by a Park Ranger. The bicyclist suffered minor injuries and was treated by paramedics.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 22 at 11:43 a.m., a motorist reported a female driver in a vehicle traveling in front of him that he believed was intoxicated. Both vehicles stopped at Shamrock and Colorado. Officers arrived and detained the driver. Field sobriety tests were conducted and the driver was arrested for DUI. She was taken into custody and held for sobering. She was later released with a citation to appear in court.
Vehicle Burglary
June 23 at 12:23 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 100 block of South Madison Avenue. The rear window of a 2014 Chevy Tahoe was broken open and the suspect(s) stole the rear seat from the vehicle. Time of occurrence is unknown. The investigation is continuing.
Residential Burglary
June 24 at 6:03 a.m., a house sitter was staying at a residence in the 300 block of Highland Place and was asleep upstairs all night at the home. Sometime during the night, the house was toilet papered, and it appears that someone entered an unlocked side window and ransacked the house, stealing a computer tablet and a small amount of cash. The house sitter did not wake up during the incident. The investigation is continuing.
Driving Under the Influence/Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
June 24 at 8:34 p.m., officers observed a male subject driving a motorcycle at night with the headlight off. He drove through the intersection of Colorado and Monterey at approximately 35 mile per hour, honking as he drove through, failing to stop for the stop sign, and swerving back and forth. The officers stopped the driver at Violet and Lime. The driver appeared to be intoxicated. Standard field sobriety tests were conducted and the driver was arrested for DUI. He was also found to be in possession of a controlled substance. The suspect was taken into to custody and held for sobering. He was later released with a citation to appear in court.
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 440 service events, resulting in 71 investigations.
Bicycle Accident
June 22 at 9:39 a.m., an officer responded with Monrovia Fire Department paramedics to the dirt fire road in the Angeles National Forest above Monrovia's Canyon Park. A male adult bicyclist reportedly fell off his bike on the trail. This incident was reported by a Park Ranger. The bicyclist suffered minor injuries and was treated by paramedics.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 22 at 11:43 a.m., a motorist reported a female driver in a vehicle traveling in front of him that he believed was intoxicated. Both vehicles stopped at Shamrock and Colorado. Officers arrived and detained the driver. Field sobriety tests were conducted and the driver was arrested for DUI. She was taken into custody and held for sobering. She was later released with a citation to appear in court.
Vehicle Burglary
June 23 at 12:23 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 100 block of South Madison Avenue. The rear window of a 2014 Chevy Tahoe was broken open and the suspect(s) stole the rear seat from the vehicle. Time of occurrence is unknown. The investigation is continuing.
Residential Burglary
June 24 at 6:03 a.m., a house sitter was staying at a residence in the 300 block of Highland Place and was asleep upstairs all night at the home. Sometime during the night, the house was toilet papered, and it appears that someone entered an unlocked side window and ransacked the house, stealing a computer tablet and a small amount of cash. The house sitter did not wake up during the incident. The investigation is continuing.
Driving Under the Influence/Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
June 24 at 8:34 p.m., officers observed a male subject driving a motorcycle at night with the headlight off. He drove through the intersection of Colorado and Monterey at approximately 35 mile per hour, honking as he drove through, failing to stop for the stop sign, and swerving back and forth. The officers stopped the driver at Violet and Lime. The driver appeared to be intoxicated. Standard field sobriety tests were conducted and the driver was arrested for DUI. He was also found to be in possession of a controlled substance. The suspect was taken into to custody and held for sobering. He was later released with a citation to appear in court.
Example Of Transition To Low-Water Landscaping
An example of the transformation from grass to low-water landscaping on the 800 block of Wildrose Avenue. http://goo.gl/fsnVHf
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Mayflower School Needs Votes to Get Money For Playground Equipment
Monrovia's Mayflower School has slipped to second place in its effort to win $20,000 for playground equipment by getting the community to vote, Carmen Martinez reports. If you'd like to help boost the school up to first place again, you can vote here: https://www.facebook.com/LetsPlay . For more info, see here: http://goo.gl/lJipTh
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Papa Murphy's Pizza Opens In Monrovia
A Papa Murphy's pizza place has opened in Monrovia, next to the Walgreens at 456 W. Huntington. I wouldn't have noticed except they sent a flyer in the mail. The twist seems to be that they hand-prepare the pizza for you, but then you take it home and bake it. "Take 'N Bake," they call it.
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Sidewalk Hole Goes To Abandoned Basement | Why Monrovia Washes Its Sidewalks in Drought | Tree Trimming | Used Batteries | Etc.
In his weekly report ( http://goo.gl/jEssHf ), City Manager Oliver Chi reports that ...
~ The city has discovered a "mystery hole" in the sidewalk at 135 W. Foothill (this appears to be near the veterinarian hospital between Stedman and Primrose) that leads to an abandoned basement. Closed signs will be posted on the sidewalk near the hole while the city figures out what to do.
~ The city has had a complaint about its roughly twice-monthly pressure-washing of downtown sidewalks. Chi said the "Health and Safety Codes supersedes the Water Conservation Order," and the washing only uses about 180 gallons.
~ For the past 7 years, Monrovia has been on a 6-year tree trimming rotation. Now it is switching back to a 4-year rotation, "which is an industry standard best practice."
~ You can now drop off used batteries at the Community Center (119 W Palm).
~ There will be a summer teen program on Friday nights at Library Park weekly, July 10 through August 21, from 7-9:30 p.m. Activities will include music, games, art, leadership opportunities, food, and more.
~ Monrovia's Gold Line Station dedication will take place on Saturday, September 12, 2015, at 10 a.m.
- Brad Haugaard
~ The city has discovered a "mystery hole" in the sidewalk at 135 W. Foothill (this appears to be near the veterinarian hospital between Stedman and Primrose) that leads to an abandoned basement. Closed signs will be posted on the sidewalk near the hole while the city figures out what to do.
~ The city has had a complaint about its roughly twice-monthly pressure-washing of downtown sidewalks. Chi said the "Health and Safety Codes supersedes the Water Conservation Order," and the washing only uses about 180 gallons.
~ For the past 7 years, Monrovia has been on a 6-year tree trimming rotation. Now it is switching back to a 4-year rotation, "which is an industry standard best practice."
~ You can now drop off used batteries at the Community Center (119 W Palm).
~ There will be a summer teen program on Friday nights at Library Park weekly, July 10 through August 21, from 7-9:30 p.m. Activities will include music, games, art, leadership opportunities, food, and more.
~ Monrovia's Gold Line Station dedication will take place on Saturday, September 12, 2015, at 10 a.m.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovians Win Player and Coach of the Year | High Speed Chase Through Town
~ Star-News names Monrovia High pitcher Brian McConnell as its Player of the Year, and Monrovia High Baseball Coach Brad Blackmore as Coach of the Year. http://goo.gl/JSBbIS
~ High speed chase goes through Monrovia, ends in Arcadia. http://goo.gl/jJqCp6
- Brad Haugaard
~ High speed chase goes through Monrovia, ends in Arcadia. http://goo.gl/jJqCp6
- Brad Haugaard
Water Running Down Street In North Monrovia
I saw water running down Oak Grove (in Gold Hills at the top of Myrtle) today. I was surprised to see it was full of algae, so I guess it's been running for some time. Due to the configuration of the homes up there, it's possible the owner doesn't even know about the problem.
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Customers Rank Monrovia-Based Trader Joe's Among Top Four Companies
Monrovia-based Trader Joe's ranked number four in how positively customers feel about various companies.
Based on a study of 10,000 U.S consumers, H-E-B, Publix, Chick-fil-A, and Trader Joe's took the top four spots in the 2015 Temkin Emotion Ratings, which rates how customers feel about their interactions with 293 companies across 20 industries. http://goo.gl/AcybIS
- Brad Haugaard
Based on a study of 10,000 U.S consumers, H-E-B, Publix, Chick-fil-A, and Trader Joe's took the top four spots in the 2015 Temkin Emotion Ratings, which rates how customers feel about their interactions with 293 companies across 20 industries. http://goo.gl/AcybIS
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: From Jail to Jail; Burglary From School; Catalytic Converter Stolen; Etc.
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for June 18-21. - Brad Haugaard]
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Non-Injury Traffic Collision
On June 18 at 7:02 p.m., officers were dispatched to a non-injury traffic collision in the area of Primrose and Huntington. The investigation revealed one of the drivers failed to yield and pulled out in front of on coming traffic. Both vehicles were damaged and a city owned traffic control sign.
Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
On June 18 at 10:03 p.m., officers responded to the 600 block of East Huntington regarding a male subject trying to get into parked cars. The officer arrived and located the subject. The investigation revealed the male was under the influence of a controlled substance and he was arrested.
Violation of Court Order – Suspect Arrested
On June 18 at 10:16 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 600 block of East Olive regarding a restraining order violation. The subject, who was released from County Jail earlier that day, took a cab to his parent’s house, where a valid restraining order is in force. A family member who feared for his safety called police and the violator was contacted and arrested.
Stolen/Vehicle Recovered
On June 19 at 8:04 a.m., an officer on routine patrol was driving through a parking lot in the 400 block of West Huntington Drive. He observed a 1998, gray Honda Civic parked in the parking stall near the rear alley. A computer check revealed the vehicle was a reported stolen out of Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Walnut Station. There was no sign of forced entry and the owner was notified.
Burglary Commercial
On June 19 at 8:06 a.m., an officer was dispatched to a school in the 800 block of West Colorado regarding a burglary investigation. The reporting party was contacted and stated the shed was left locked and secured. Upon returning, he found the lock latch had been pried away from the shed and all their tools and gardening equipment were stolen. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
On June 19 at 2:46 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 200 block of West Lemon. The victim parked her vehicle and rolled up the windows, but unsure if she locked the doors. When she returned the following morning she saw that the interior appeared ransacked and her laptop computers, checkbook and vehicle registration were missing. The investigation is continuing.
Grand Theft
On June 19 at 3:09 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the northeast corner lot at Primrose and Pomona regarding a theft. The victim parked his vehicle on May 30 and returned to his vehicle 2 hours later. He turned his ignition on and immediately heard a loud sound. The victim exited his vehicle and examined the rear end, discovering his catalytic converter was stolen. The investigation is continuing.
Petty Theft – Suspect Arrested
On June 20 at 11:13 a.m., an officer responded to the 100 block of West Foothill regarding a theft. A male subject entered a grocery store and put a bag of disposable razors in his pocket. He ran out of the store without paying for the merchandise. Officers searched for the male and located him at the corner of Magnolia and Huntington. A field show-up was conducted and the male was positively identified as the shoplifter. He was placed under private person’s arrest, and transported to the Monrovia Jail, where he was booked. He was still in possession of the razors, which were returned to the store.
Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Methamphetamine / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
On June 20 at 8:00 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle and contacted the driver. Upon contacting the subject a strong smell of marijuana emitted from the vehicle. Further investigation revealed the subject is on probation for drug related violations. A search of the vehicle revealed a small amount of marijuana. The subject admitted to having syringes in his possession. Also found in his possession was Methamphetamine and Heroine. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
On June 20 at 12:10 p.m., dispatch received a call reporting three subjects drinking in a vehicle at Shamrock/Huntington. The vehicle left before officers arrived. The vehicle was spotted and stopped on Huntington near Myrtle. The driver, a 19-year-old male, was determined to be driving under the influence of alcohol and was arrested and taken into custody.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
On June 21 at 4:00 a.m., officers stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation in the area of Central and Myrtle. The driver was determined to be driving under the influence of alcohol and was arrested and taken into custody.
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Non-Injury Traffic Collision
On June 18 at 7:02 p.m., officers were dispatched to a non-injury traffic collision in the area of Primrose and Huntington. The investigation revealed one of the drivers failed to yield and pulled out in front of on coming traffic. Both vehicles were damaged and a city owned traffic control sign.
Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
On June 18 at 10:03 p.m., officers responded to the 600 block of East Huntington regarding a male subject trying to get into parked cars. The officer arrived and located the subject. The investigation revealed the male was under the influence of a controlled substance and he was arrested.
Violation of Court Order – Suspect Arrested
On June 18 at 10:16 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 600 block of East Olive regarding a restraining order violation. The subject, who was released from County Jail earlier that day, took a cab to his parent’s house, where a valid restraining order is in force. A family member who feared for his safety called police and the violator was contacted and arrested.
Stolen/Vehicle Recovered
On June 19 at 8:04 a.m., an officer on routine patrol was driving through a parking lot in the 400 block of West Huntington Drive. He observed a 1998, gray Honda Civic parked in the parking stall near the rear alley. A computer check revealed the vehicle was a reported stolen out of Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Walnut Station. There was no sign of forced entry and the owner was notified.
Burglary Commercial
On June 19 at 8:06 a.m., an officer was dispatched to a school in the 800 block of West Colorado regarding a burglary investigation. The reporting party was contacted and stated the shed was left locked and secured. Upon returning, he found the lock latch had been pried away from the shed and all their tools and gardening equipment were stolen. The investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Burglary
On June 19 at 2:46 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 200 block of West Lemon. The victim parked her vehicle and rolled up the windows, but unsure if she locked the doors. When she returned the following morning she saw that the interior appeared ransacked and her laptop computers, checkbook and vehicle registration were missing. The investigation is continuing.
Grand Theft
On June 19 at 3:09 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the northeast corner lot at Primrose and Pomona regarding a theft. The victim parked his vehicle on May 30 and returned to his vehicle 2 hours later. He turned his ignition on and immediately heard a loud sound. The victim exited his vehicle and examined the rear end, discovering his catalytic converter was stolen. The investigation is continuing.
Petty Theft – Suspect Arrested
On June 20 at 11:13 a.m., an officer responded to the 100 block of West Foothill regarding a theft. A male subject entered a grocery store and put a bag of disposable razors in his pocket. He ran out of the store without paying for the merchandise. Officers searched for the male and located him at the corner of Magnolia and Huntington. A field show-up was conducted and the male was positively identified as the shoplifter. He was placed under private person’s arrest, and transported to the Monrovia Jail, where he was booked. He was still in possession of the razors, which were returned to the store.
Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Methamphetamine / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
On June 20 at 8:00 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle and contacted the driver. Upon contacting the subject a strong smell of marijuana emitted from the vehicle. Further investigation revealed the subject is on probation for drug related violations. A search of the vehicle revealed a small amount of marijuana. The subject admitted to having syringes in his possession. Also found in his possession was Methamphetamine and Heroine. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
On June 20 at 12:10 p.m., dispatch received a call reporting three subjects drinking in a vehicle at Shamrock/Huntington. The vehicle left before officers arrived. The vehicle was spotted and stopped on Huntington near Myrtle. The driver, a 19-year-old male, was determined to be driving under the influence of alcohol and was arrested and taken into custody.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
On June 21 at 4:00 a.m., officers stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation in the area of Central and Myrtle. The driver was determined to be driving under the influence of alcohol and was arrested and taken into custody.
Support Education Picnic at Monrovia's Shamrock Park
Twenty third annual family day picnic for HOPE (Helping Others Pursue Education) at Monrovia's Shamrock Park, June 27, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Details: http://goo.gl/Wwc88S
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Help Monrovia's Mayflower School Win $20k for Playground Equipment
Jennifer Bray reports that the contest for Mayflower School to win $20,000 for new playground equipment ends on Friday, June 26, and "our lead has diminished - we need all the support we can to finish this strong!" You can vote to help Mayflower win,. here: https://www.facebook.com/LetsPlay . More detail here: http://goo.gl/lJipTh
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Whole Foods to Compete Against Monrovia-Based Trader Joe's
Whole Foods is entering the high-quality/small-store market dominated by Monrovia-based Trader Joe's with a new store chain called 365. http://goo.gl/Jub6Oe
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Forum About Serving Low-Income Families | More on Monrovia/Arcadia Street Fair
~ Community members with ideas or concerns about programs and services for local low-income families can share them at a public forum hosted by Foothill Unity Center on Wednesday, June 24, at the Center's Monrovia location, 415 W. Chestnut Ave. Your input helps to establish program priorities for the 2016/2017 Community Action Plan (CAP). For questions, call the Center at 358-3486.
~ More on the Monrovia/Arcadia street fair dust-up, from an Arcadia perspective ( http://goo.gl/vjJwpt ). Comment: The producer of the Monrovia street fair is moving to Arcadia; the Monrovia street fair is not.
- Brad Haugaard
~ More on the Monrovia/Arcadia street fair dust-up, from an Arcadia perspective ( http://goo.gl/vjJwpt ). Comment: The producer of the Monrovia street fair is moving to Arcadia; the Monrovia street fair is not.
- Brad Haugaard
Looking at the Sun in Library Park
New Monrovian Kristin Kyle looks at the sun in Library Park. Brad Hori has his solar telescope out as part of the Charlie Bates Solar Astronomy Project, a solar astronomy outreach project. http://www.solarastronomy.org/
- Brad Haugaard
Get a View of the Heavens Tonight at Myrtle and Lime in Monrovia
Monrovia's Old Town Sidewalk Astronomers will be at Myrtle and Lime from about 8-10 p.m.
"You might have seen that lovely show last night in the western sky put on by the crescent moon, Venus, and Jupiter. We'll get a repeat tonight with a slightly different arrangement. The nearby moon will make a significant move against the background of the distant planets.
"It should also be a great night for Saturn, which is putting on a fabulous show this year. The rings are tilted toward Earth, making it possible to see the Cassini division in Saturn's rings.
"It's going to be hot and clear. Drop by for a look if you can."
- Brad Haugaard
"You might have seen that lovely show last night in the western sky put on by the crescent moon, Venus, and Jupiter. We'll get a repeat tonight with a slightly different arrangement. The nearby moon will make a significant move against the background of the distant planets.
"It should also be a great night for Saturn, which is putting on a fabulous show this year. The rings are tilted toward Earth, making it possible to see the Cassini division in Saturn's rings.
"It's going to be hot and clear. Drop by for a look if you can."
- Brad Haugaard
No, Monrovia Street Fair is NOT Moving to Arcadia
A lot of Monrovians on Facebook are really upset about a news article that appears to say that the Monrovia Street Fair is moving to Arcadia. http://goo.gl/7jRjoD
The second paragraph of the article says: "On June 2 the Arcadia City Council unanimously approved the new weekly event that has been in Monrovia for 23 years to now be staged from 5-9 p.m. on Fridays in Arcadia..."
Comment: Uh, no. The Monrovia Street Fair isn't going anywhere.
- Brad Haugaard
The second paragraph of the article says: "On June 2 the Arcadia City Council unanimously approved the new weekly event that has been in Monrovia for 23 years to now be staged from 5-9 p.m. on Fridays in Arcadia..."
Comment: Uh, no. The Monrovia Street Fair isn't going anywhere.
- Brad Haugaard
School Board: Roof Repair and 2015-16 Budget
At the June 24 Monrovia School Board meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/2o6NrX ), the board will consider, among other things, ...
- spending $186,787 "for the roof repair, restoration, and replacement at Plymouth Elementary School, Mayflower Elementary School, Canyon Early Learning Center, Santa Fe Middle School, and Monrovia High School." http://goo.gl/ZbiC0M
- adopting the 2015-16 budget. http://goo.gl/g9sA69
- Brad Haugaard
- spending $186,787 "for the roof repair, restoration, and replacement at Plymouth Elementary School, Mayflower Elementary School, Canyon Early Learning Center, Santa Fe Middle School, and Monrovia High School." http://goo.gl/ZbiC0M
- adopting the 2015-16 budget. http://goo.gl/g9sA69
- Brad Haugaard
Dinner at Shrimp House
Dinner at the Shrimp House last night, at Myrtle and Live Oak, on the south end of town. Got the seafood sampler plate for $15.99, and a beer for $3.65. The meal came with coleslaw, not shown, and that bowl is rice and beans. It was really quite good. Kind of an old style restaurant but clean and tidy.
- Brad Haugaard
Prayer Vigil Tonight Following Killing of Lajoya McCoy
Following the recent killing in Monrovia of Lajoya McCoy, Rev. Melanie Mays is opening Bethel AME Church tonight for a prayer vigil. The church is at 148 W Lime Avenue. Mays writes that she "would love to have you come and support to help people feel safe." She added that, "Our church has suffered loss that we can not explain away."
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
'Blue Boy' Unveiled at Monrovia's Wildrose School
Video of the unveiling of Wildrose School's copy of "The Blue Boy." https://goo.gl/6U1LbT
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
'Bluto' Cases Monrovia Bank | 'Athlete of Year' Mosley To State Finals
The "Bluto Bandit" seen casing a bank in Monrovia. http://goo.gl/BqyJTs
Monrovia High's Sydney Mosley goes to CIF State finals and wins "athlete of the year." http://goo.gl/kEfZTJ
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia High's Sydney Mosley goes to CIF State finals and wins "athlete of the year." http://goo.gl/kEfZTJ
- Brad Haugaard
Coming Up in Monrovia
~ June 27 Kattywompus Traditional Music Gathering, in the breezeway behind 412 S Myrtle Ave, 7-9 p.m.
~ June 27 The PG movie Annie at the Monrovia Historic Museum, 742 E Lemon Ave. at 8 p.m. Bring a chair.
~ July 11 The PG movie Maleficent at Rotary Park, 401 S. California; at 8 p.m. Bring a chair.
~ The play, Thoroughly Modern Millie, July 16-19 at The Taylor Performing Arts Center (aka Monrovia High Auditorium), 845 W. Colorado Blvd. Thursday and Friday at 8 p.m.; Saturday 2 and 8 pm and Sunday 4 pm. Tickets at http://www.brownpapertickets.com
~ July 25 Kattywompus Traditional Music Gathering, 7-9 p.m. in the breezeway behind 412 S Myrtle Ave.
~ July 25 MAFA Summer Art Walk in Monrovia Old Town, on the east side of 400 Block of S. Myrtle; 6-10 p.m.
Source: Becky Shevlin's great community calendar
- Brad Haugaard
~ June 27 The PG movie Annie at the Monrovia Historic Museum, 742 E Lemon Ave. at 8 p.m. Bring a chair.
~ July 11 The PG movie Maleficent at Rotary Park, 401 S. California; at 8 p.m. Bring a chair.
~ The play, Thoroughly Modern Millie, July 16-19 at The Taylor Performing Arts Center (aka Monrovia High Auditorium), 845 W. Colorado Blvd. Thursday and Friday at 8 p.m.; Saturday 2 and 8 pm and Sunday 4 pm. Tickets at http://www.brownpapertickets.com
~ July 25 Kattywompus Traditional Music Gathering, 7-9 p.m. in the breezeway behind 412 S Myrtle Ave.
~ July 25 MAFA Summer Art Walk in Monrovia Old Town, on the east side of 400 Block of S. Myrtle; 6-10 p.m.
Source: Becky Shevlin's great community calendar
- Brad Haugaard
Jimmy John's Sandwich Shop Coming to Monrovia? Plus a Hot Dog Stand?
It appears there is a Jimmy John's sandwich shop coming to the Huntington Oaks Shopping Center since the city's Design Review Committee is being asked to approve a "Jimmy John's" sign for 672 W. Huntington.
Also, the committee is being asked to approve a hot dog stand out in front of Home Depot. Comment: HD has had a few a hot dog stands there before, and one of them was really good. Get that one back!
Source: http://goo.gl/ILeKsu
- Brad Haugaard
Also, the committee is being asked to approve a hot dog stand out in front of Home Depot. Comment: HD has had a few a hot dog stands there before, and one of them was really good. Get that one back!
Source: http://goo.gl/ILeKsu
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia High Student Selected to Attend Technology Congress in Boston
Samantha Childers, a freshman at Monrovia High, has been nominated to attend the Congress of Future Science and Technology Leaders in Boston on June 28.
The Congress is an honors-only program for high school students who are passionate about science, technology, engineering or mathematics. The event is to honor, inspire, motivate and direct the top students in the country who aspire to be scientists and technologists, to encourage them to stay true to their dream and, after the event, to provide a path, plan and resources to help them reach their goal.
Samantha Childers was nominated by astronaut Buzz Aldrin, Science Director of the National Academy of Future Scientists and Technologists, to represent California based on her academic achievement, leadership potential and passion for science and technology.
During the three-day Congress, she will join students from across the country and hear Nobel Laureates and National Medal of Science winners talk about scientific research; be given advice from deans of the world's top tech universities; be inspired by fellow teen science prodigies; and learn about cutting-edge advances and the future of science and technology.
Source: press release
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Homicide; Runaway Mental Patient; Burglary Tools; Injury Accident; Etc.
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for June 15-17. - Brad Haugaard]
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 386 service events, resulting in 69 investigations.
Homicide
On June 12, a family member reported a woman, Lajoya McCoy, who lived in Monrovia as missing. The Monrovia Police Department began working on locating the missing person by contacting family, friends, and neighbors. On Monday June 15, Monrovia Police detectives investigating the case gathered information that caused them to suspect the missing person may have been the victim of a crime. Monrovia detectives asked for assistance on the case from the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department. Monrovia Police officers conducted a grid search of the city for the missing person’s vehicle. On June 16, around 5:30 AM, the missing person’s vehicle was located in the 200 block of West Cypress. Inside the vehicle was the body of a female adult. Sheriff's Homicide Detectives and the Coroner responded to investigate. At the time of this report the Coroner has not yet confirmed the identity of the victim in the vehicle. Sheriff's homicide is responsible for the investigation of this case. Anyone with information about Lajoya McCoy is asked to contact the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.
72 Hour Mental Evaluation
On June 16 at 3:03 p.m., dispatch received a call from a County Mental Health Worker in the 2600 block of California regarding mental patient running away. The subject ran from the office after he was notified he would be committed for a 72 hour evaluation. The security officer chased after the subject and caught him. Two hours later as they were preparing to transport the subject by ambulance to the hospital, the subject took off running again. An area search was conducted by health staff workers and day watch officers. Through investigation the officers were able to locate him on a transit bus, which was stopped by Monterey Park Police officers. The subject was then transported back to the hospital for a 72 hour hold.
Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
On June 16 at 7:14 p.m., officers responded to the 300 block of South Myrtle regarding an intoxicated female battering a male transient. When officers arrived the male wished to remain anonymous and did not desire prosecution, but wanted the officers to check on the safety and welfare of the female believing she was too drunk to care for herself. The female was located in the park and she was detained. She did not know where she was or what the date or time were. She admitted to drinking some type of alcoholic beverage, but said she only had two drinks. It was the officer’s opinion that she was intoxicated and if left alone she could injure herself, she was arrested for being drunk in public and held for sobering.
Possession of Burglary Tools / Expired License / Unsafe Turn – Suspects Arrested and Cited
On June 17 at 2:49 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 900 block of West Foothill where he observed a suspicious vehicle parked in the parking lot of a business. There are usually no cars parked at the business at night. As he drove closer to it, he saw both car doors open. As the officer drove around to the alley to see what they were doing, the vehicle began to drive away. The vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation and was occupied by two males and one female. The officer smelled a strong odor of Marijuana emitting from the vehicle. A computer check revealed the driver was on probation and his license was expired. The officer conducted a search and found the male passenger in possession of tools used to commit burglaries. The male passenger was arrested for being in possession of burglary tools and the driver was cited for expired license and unsafe turn.
Injury Traffic Collision
On June 17 at 1:01 p.m., dispatch received a call from Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department dispatch reporting they had patrol units at the scene of a traffic collision in the area of Mountain and Duarte. Officers responded and it was determined the traffic collision occurred in Monrovia’s jurisdiction. Officers conducted an injury traffic collision investigation. During the course of the investigation it was determined one of the drivers was driving with a suspended license and had several outstanding warrants. Identity Theft / Commercial Burglary / Forgery with a Counterfeit Access Card –
Suspect Arrested
On June 17 at 3:00 p.m., an officer responded to a business in the 200 block of South Myrtle regarding a fraud report. The reporting party said a male adult subject was inside the store attempting to cash fraudulent checks. Officers responded and established probable cause to arrest. The subject was arrested for the listed charges and taken into custody.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
On June 18 at 12:57 p.m., an officer was traveling north on Myrtle approaching the 210 freeway. As the officer passed under the freeway with a green light for northbound traffic at Central, a white Honda Civic went west on Central through a solid red light and turned left directly in front of the officer almost causing a collision. The officer made a uturn and followed the vehicle south on Myrtle to Duarte Road, where a traffic stop was conducted. After contacting the male driver, the officer believed the driver was intoxicated. Field sobriety tests were conducted and the driver was arrested for driving under the influence. He was taken to the Monrovia City Jail, where he was booked and held for sobering.
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 386 service events, resulting in 69 investigations.
Homicide
On June 12, a family member reported a woman, Lajoya McCoy, who lived in Monrovia as missing. The Monrovia Police Department began working on locating the missing person by contacting family, friends, and neighbors. On Monday June 15, Monrovia Police detectives investigating the case gathered information that caused them to suspect the missing person may have been the victim of a crime. Monrovia detectives asked for assistance on the case from the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department. Monrovia Police officers conducted a grid search of the city for the missing person’s vehicle. On June 16, around 5:30 AM, the missing person’s vehicle was located in the 200 block of West Cypress. Inside the vehicle was the body of a female adult. Sheriff's Homicide Detectives and the Coroner responded to investigate. At the time of this report the Coroner has not yet confirmed the identity of the victim in the vehicle. Sheriff's homicide is responsible for the investigation of this case. Anyone with information about Lajoya McCoy is asked to contact the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.
72 Hour Mental Evaluation
On June 16 at 3:03 p.m., dispatch received a call from a County Mental Health Worker in the 2600 block of California regarding mental patient running away. The subject ran from the office after he was notified he would be committed for a 72 hour evaluation. The security officer chased after the subject and caught him. Two hours later as they were preparing to transport the subject by ambulance to the hospital, the subject took off running again. An area search was conducted by health staff workers and day watch officers. Through investigation the officers were able to locate him on a transit bus, which was stopped by Monterey Park Police officers. The subject was then transported back to the hospital for a 72 hour hold.
Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
On June 16 at 7:14 p.m., officers responded to the 300 block of South Myrtle regarding an intoxicated female battering a male transient. When officers arrived the male wished to remain anonymous and did not desire prosecution, but wanted the officers to check on the safety and welfare of the female believing she was too drunk to care for herself. The female was located in the park and she was detained. She did not know where she was or what the date or time were. She admitted to drinking some type of alcoholic beverage, but said she only had two drinks. It was the officer’s opinion that she was intoxicated and if left alone she could injure herself, she was arrested for being drunk in public and held for sobering.
Possession of Burglary Tools / Expired License / Unsafe Turn – Suspects Arrested and Cited
On June 17 at 2:49 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 900 block of West Foothill where he observed a suspicious vehicle parked in the parking lot of a business. There are usually no cars parked at the business at night. As he drove closer to it, he saw both car doors open. As the officer drove around to the alley to see what they were doing, the vehicle began to drive away. The vehicle was stopped for a traffic violation and was occupied by two males and one female. The officer smelled a strong odor of Marijuana emitting from the vehicle. A computer check revealed the driver was on probation and his license was expired. The officer conducted a search and found the male passenger in possession of tools used to commit burglaries. The male passenger was arrested for being in possession of burglary tools and the driver was cited for expired license and unsafe turn.
Injury Traffic Collision
On June 17 at 1:01 p.m., dispatch received a call from Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department dispatch reporting they had patrol units at the scene of a traffic collision in the area of Mountain and Duarte. Officers responded and it was determined the traffic collision occurred in Monrovia’s jurisdiction. Officers conducted an injury traffic collision investigation. During the course of the investigation it was determined one of the drivers was driving with a suspended license and had several outstanding warrants. Identity Theft / Commercial Burglary / Forgery with a Counterfeit Access Card –
Suspect Arrested
On June 17 at 3:00 p.m., an officer responded to a business in the 200 block of South Myrtle regarding a fraud report. The reporting party said a male adult subject was inside the store attempting to cash fraudulent checks. Officers responded and established probable cause to arrest. The subject was arrested for the listed charges and taken into custody.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
On June 18 at 12:57 p.m., an officer was traveling north on Myrtle approaching the 210 freeway. As the officer passed under the freeway with a green light for northbound traffic at Central, a white Honda Civic went west on Central through a solid red light and turned left directly in front of the officer almost causing a collision. The officer made a uturn and followed the vehicle south on Myrtle to Duarte Road, where a traffic stop was conducted. After contacting the male driver, the officer believed the driver was intoxicated. Field sobriety tests were conducted and the driver was arrested for driving under the influence. He was taken to the Monrovia City Jail, where he was booked and held for sobering.
Look at the Sun This Sunday at Monrovia's Library Park
If you are around Monrovia's Library Park this Sunday, June 21, drop by the northwest corner of Lime and Myrtle to see the sun. Yes, you've seen the sun before, but have you looked at it directly through a telescope? The sun is 93 million miles away, although it looks as big as the moon.
See it through two specialized telescopes, White Light and Hydrogen Alpha. Unlike looking at the moon, which looks the same day after day, year after year, the sun surface changes day by day, hour by hour, and sometimes faster. Sun spots, filaments, prominences, spicules are all visible through these telescopes. It is safe and free!
Sponsored by the Charlie Bates Solar Astronomy Project an Internet outreach program started by Stephen W. Ramsden in Atlanta, Georgia with thousands of members all around the world.
Rain will cancel this event.
Source: Brad Hori
See it through two specialized telescopes, White Light and Hydrogen Alpha. Unlike looking at the moon, which looks the same day after day, year after year, the sun surface changes day by day, hour by hour, and sometimes faster. Sun spots, filaments, prominences, spicules are all visible through these telescopes. It is safe and free!
Sponsored by the Charlie Bates Solar Astronomy Project an Internet outreach program started by Stephen W. Ramsden in Atlanta, Georgia with thousands of members all around the world.
Rain will cancel this event.
Source: Brad Hori
Pieology Pizza Now Open in Monrovia
Pieology Pizzeria has opened its Monrovia location at 915 W. Huntington Drive across the street from the Double Tree Hilton. Monrovia is Pieology's 29th Southern California location, and is one of the first to feature Pieology's new custom salad program. The restaurant seats approximately 48 guests inside and 50 outside, in an industrial-chic and friendly environment where inspirational quotes decorate the walls, menus and employee uniforms. The restaurant is open Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. The restaurant can be contacted at 357-6973. Source: Press release
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Bike Safety Class | Profile of Monrovia Business
~ Free bicycle safety classes at Monrovia Public Library on June 27 from 9 a.m.-noon. http://goo.gl/P5Oe3w
~ A profile of Railcar Fine Goods, and old town store that specializes in creating denim garments and accessories. http://goo.gl/2vSpvz
- Brad Haugaard
~ A profile of Railcar Fine Goods, and old town store that specializes in creating denim garments and accessories. http://goo.gl/2vSpvz
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia School Superintendent's Husband Dies; Parry on Planning; Serving Sierra Madre; Bike Plan; Giggle Interuption
A few items from City Manager Oliver Chi's weekly report (full report: http://goo.gl/ToBl6a ) ...
- Monrovia School District Superintendent Kathy Thorossian’s husband, Rafik Thorossian, passed away suddenly on the evening of June 9.
- Robert Parry, who ran unsuccessfully for City Council, is being appointed to the Planning Commission.
- On June 1, the Monrovia Fire Department began providing Battalion Chief response services for the City of Sierra Madre. Sierra Madre will pay Monrovia for the service.
- City staff met with representatives of Move Monrovia to discuss the steps to develop a bike master plan for the city.
- Because of the Station Square project, Giggle Fiber needs to relocate one of its main lines. The work is scheduled for the late night / early morning of Tuesday, June 16 and Thursday, June 18.
- Brad Haugaard
- Monrovia School District Superintendent Kathy Thorossian’s husband, Rafik Thorossian, passed away suddenly on the evening of June 9.
- Robert Parry, who ran unsuccessfully for City Council, is being appointed to the Planning Commission.
- On June 1, the Monrovia Fire Department began providing Battalion Chief response services for the City of Sierra Madre. Sierra Madre will pay Monrovia for the service.
- City staff met with representatives of Move Monrovia to discuss the steps to develop a bike master plan for the city.
- Because of the Station Square project, Giggle Fiber needs to relocate one of its main lines. The work is scheduled for the late night / early morning of Tuesday, June 16 and Thursday, June 18.
- Brad Haugaard
Australians Training with Monrovia Drones
The Australian Defence Force has begun training with drones made by Monrovia-based AeroVironment. http://goo.gl/kSqkry
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Maintaining Monrovia's Wilderness Area: Milk Vetch, Bad Hiker Boots, Leaving Nature Alone
I attended the study session at City Hall tonight about how Monrovia will maintain its Wilderness area. A few things that struck me:
- The Wilderness Area has an endangered species called Braunton's milk vetch, about which the city has posted warning signs along the Clamshell road leading up from the Ridgeside entry point. In her report, Director of Community Services Tina Cherry said that "milk-vetch actually thrives when disturbed," and Fire Chief Christopher Donovan said that when the road is scraped the milk-vetch "flourishes." Comment: So, maybe the city should replace the threatening warning signs (above) on the Clamshell Road, that tell people not to disturb the milk vetch, with signs that encourage them - in the appropriate season - to stomp on milk vetch. (I'm only half kidding here.)
- Donovan added that the Clamshell road used to be scraped yearly by the county, for free, but now, with the discovery of the endangered-ness of the milk vetch, not so often because you need permission from the Department of Fish and Game. Comment: Um, so we're not going to scrape the road - which makes the milk vetch flourish - because we want to protect the milk vetch?
- Councilmember Gloria Crudgington said hikers' boots and bicyclists' tires are responsible for introducing invasive species into the hills.
- The Council was concerned that the bond money for maintenance will run out in 13 years and advocated a more minimalist cost-saving maintenance approach than city staff proposed. Mayor Tom Adams said, "I don't know that we need a lot of people [employees] to leave nature alone."
- Brad Haugaard
Body of Woman Found in Trunk of Car in Monrovia
Body of missing woman found in trunk of her car in Monrovia. http://goo.gl/ZiWj1w
Update: If you have any information about this case, contact the Sheriff's Department. More here: http://goo.gl/LCrU8M
- Brad Haugaard
Update: If you have any information about this case, contact the Sheriff's Department. More here: http://goo.gl/LCrU8M
- Brad Haugaard
Help Mayflower School Get New Playground Equipment | Street Fair Web Site | Culinary School | Free Cats and Dogs
~ You can help Mayflower Elementary School win $20,000 for new playground equipment by voting on Facebook.com/letsplay. The contest is sponsored by Dr Pepper Snapple and national non-profit KaBOOM! Winners will be announced on June 29. The school writes that new playground for Mayflower would benefit not only the students, but also many after school programs, such as The Boys and Girls Club, Monrovia Youth League Baseball and AYSO. "We hope to provide safe playground equipment for all, including students and community members with special needs." You can vote once a day.
~ The refurbished Monrovia Street Fair has a new website: http://monroviastreetfair.com/
~ Julie Knight writes that Saute Culinary School is going in where Flamzz pizza used to be, at the corner of Colorado and Ivy. I would guess it's this place: http://www.sauteacademy.com/
~ The Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA, which serves Monrovia, will hold its Second Annual Free Adoption Day on June 30. The shelter, located at 361 S. Raymond Ave in Pasadena, will be open for adoptions from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Adoption fees will be waived for all available animals-including dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, pocket pets and reptiles - for the entire day.
- Brad Haugaard
~ The refurbished Monrovia Street Fair has a new website: http://monroviastreetfair.com/
~ Julie Knight writes that Saute Culinary School is going in where Flamzz pizza used to be, at the corner of Colorado and Ivy. I would guess it's this place: http://www.sauteacademy.com/
~ The Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA, which serves Monrovia, will hold its Second Annual Free Adoption Day on June 30. The shelter, located at 361 S. Raymond Ave in Pasadena, will be open for adoptions from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Adoption fees will be waived for all available animals-including dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, pocket pets and reptiles - for the entire day.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Big Bar Fight; Man Reports a Crime, Goes to Jail; Drunk, Drunk, and Very Drunk
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for Highlighted Activity for June 11-14. - Brad Haugaard]
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
On June 11 at 9:30 a.m., officers responded to the 700 block of South Myrtle regarding a family disturbance. When they arrived they discovered a female with scratch marks on her face. She told the officers her boyfriend, whom she lives with, hit and pushed her causing the injuries. After investigating, officers arrested the male for domestic violence.
Vehicle Burglary
On June 11 at 8:11 p.m., an officer responded to a business in the 900 block of West Huntington regarding a vehicle burglary. The victim reported his vehicle was broken into and his stereo and navigation system were taken. The vehicle’s back window was smashed to gain access. The investigation is continuing
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol/Hit and Run Traffic Collision/Suspended License – Suspect Arrested
On June 12 at 2:32 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 400 block of West Duarte Road regarding a call of a traffic collision that just occurred. Officers arrived and discovered a solo vehicle collision into a garage door. The driver had fled the area prior to officers arriving. A witness was located who described the driver of the vehicle and said he fled on foot. Officers located the driver of the vehicle within 10 minutes. The suspect admitted to fleeing the scene of the accident and drinking alcohol prior to the collision. The suspect was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, hit and run and suspended license.
Warrant - Suspect Arrest
On June 12 at 2:16 p.m., an officer responded to the Monrovia Police lobby regarding a violation of court order. The subject’s ex-girlfriend was in violation of child custody orders; however, he did not have the order with him. A computer check to view the order also revealed the male had an outstanding warrant for his arrest with a bail over $200,000 and a request from LA County Probation to not release if arrested. The subject was taken into custody and arrested for the warrant.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
On June 12 at 12:19 p.m., an officer on patrol stopped a motorist for a vehicle code violation in the 100 block of West Olive. A subsequent investigation revealed the motorist was intoxicated. The driver was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.
Public Intoxication
On June 13 at 12:16 p.m., an officer was flagged down by a security officer in the 300 block of South Myrtle. The security officer reported a male subject in front of the business who was intoxicated. It was determined he was unable to care for himself and arrested for public intoxication. He was later released after sobering.
Medical Assist
On June 13 at 12:37 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a business in the 300 block of South Myrtle regarding an unconscious subject. The subject was found to be extremely intoxicated and was transported to the hospital for treatment.
Fight in Progress
On June 13 at 1:41 a.m., officers were dispatched to a business reporting a fight in progress in the 300 block of South Myrtle. During the evening a large group of subjects gathered at the bar and celebrated downstairs. Upstairs another group of subjects were playing pool. Between the two groups there were well over 300 patrons in the bar. A reporting party came to the police station to report subjects were "Mad Dogging" each other. Officers extra patrolled the bar and talked to the bar owner who agreed to close at 1:30 a.m. As the bar closed and subjects were leaving, three separate fights broke out. A large fight ensued on Myrtle Avenue in front of the bar. Monrovia officers, with the assistance of Arcadia and Sierra Madre Police Department arrived on scene. Numerous subjects dispersed spilling out onto neighboring streets. Due to the large crowd and subjects fighting each other, officers were unable to determine who was involved in the fight and no assault victims came forward. Officers were on scene for over 40 minutes.
Grand Theft Auto
On June 14 at 10:15 a.m., an officer responded to the 200 block of East Central regarding a vehicle theft. The victim stated he left his locked vehicle on the street. The vehicle was taken between the hours of 1:00 a.m. to 5:30 a.m. The vehicle taken was a black, 1995 Honda Accord. The investigation is continuing.
Grand Theft Auto
On June 14 at 10:03 p.m., an officer was dispatched to 1100 block of South Alta Vista regarding a stolen vehicle. The victim last saw her white, 1997 Honda Accord, on June 13, 2015, at 5:00 p.m. She noticed it missing from in front of her house on June 14, 2015, at 10:00 p.m. There was no evidence of forced entry. The investigation is continuing.
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
On June 11 at 9:30 a.m., officers responded to the 700 block of South Myrtle regarding a family disturbance. When they arrived they discovered a female with scratch marks on her face. She told the officers her boyfriend, whom she lives with, hit and pushed her causing the injuries. After investigating, officers arrested the male for domestic violence.
Vehicle Burglary
On June 11 at 8:11 p.m., an officer responded to a business in the 900 block of West Huntington regarding a vehicle burglary. The victim reported his vehicle was broken into and his stereo and navigation system were taken. The vehicle’s back window was smashed to gain access. The investigation is continuing
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol/Hit and Run Traffic Collision/Suspended License – Suspect Arrested
On June 12 at 2:32 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 400 block of West Duarte Road regarding a call of a traffic collision that just occurred. Officers arrived and discovered a solo vehicle collision into a garage door. The driver had fled the area prior to officers arriving. A witness was located who described the driver of the vehicle and said he fled on foot. Officers located the driver of the vehicle within 10 minutes. The suspect admitted to fleeing the scene of the accident and drinking alcohol prior to the collision. The suspect was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, hit and run and suspended license.
Warrant - Suspect Arrest
On June 12 at 2:16 p.m., an officer responded to the Monrovia Police lobby regarding a violation of court order. The subject’s ex-girlfriend was in violation of child custody orders; however, he did not have the order with him. A computer check to view the order also revealed the male had an outstanding warrant for his arrest with a bail over $200,000 and a request from LA County Probation to not release if arrested. The subject was taken into custody and arrested for the warrant.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
On June 12 at 12:19 p.m., an officer on patrol stopped a motorist for a vehicle code violation in the 100 block of West Olive. A subsequent investigation revealed the motorist was intoxicated. The driver was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.
Public Intoxication
On June 13 at 12:16 p.m., an officer was flagged down by a security officer in the 300 block of South Myrtle. The security officer reported a male subject in front of the business who was intoxicated. It was determined he was unable to care for himself and arrested for public intoxication. He was later released after sobering.
Medical Assist
On June 13 at 12:37 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a business in the 300 block of South Myrtle regarding an unconscious subject. The subject was found to be extremely intoxicated and was transported to the hospital for treatment.
Fight in Progress
On June 13 at 1:41 a.m., officers were dispatched to a business reporting a fight in progress in the 300 block of South Myrtle. During the evening a large group of subjects gathered at the bar and celebrated downstairs. Upstairs another group of subjects were playing pool. Between the two groups there were well over 300 patrons in the bar. A reporting party came to the police station to report subjects were "Mad Dogging" each other. Officers extra patrolled the bar and talked to the bar owner who agreed to close at 1:30 a.m. As the bar closed and subjects were leaving, three separate fights broke out. A large fight ensued on Myrtle Avenue in front of the bar. Monrovia officers, with the assistance of Arcadia and Sierra Madre Police Department arrived on scene. Numerous subjects dispersed spilling out onto neighboring streets. Due to the large crowd and subjects fighting each other, officers were unable to determine who was involved in the fight and no assault victims came forward. Officers were on scene for over 40 minutes.
Grand Theft Auto
On June 14 at 10:15 a.m., an officer responded to the 200 block of East Central regarding a vehicle theft. The victim stated he left his locked vehicle on the street. The vehicle was taken between the hours of 1:00 a.m. to 5:30 a.m. The vehicle taken was a black, 1995 Honda Accord. The investigation is continuing.
Grand Theft Auto
On June 14 at 10:03 p.m., an officer was dispatched to 1100 block of South Alta Vista regarding a stolen vehicle. The victim last saw her white, 1997 Honda Accord, on June 13, 2015, at 5:00 p.m. She noticed it missing from in front of her house on June 14, 2015, at 10:00 p.m. There was no evidence of forced entry. The investigation is continuing.
Monrovians Save the Day for What Might Have Been a Very Lonely Birthday Party
What would happen if your son invited his classmates to his seventh birthday at Recreation Park and nobody came. Well, in Monrovia something wonderful happened when a mom wrote on Facebook:
"I'm at my sons 7th bday party at the recreational park, passed out invites and only invited his classmates from school 26 invites and rented out a game truck... Not one kid showed up. This really sucks"
Carmen Martinez describes what happened next:
"In no time at all Monrovians responded and a community came together. Many people showed up with kids of similar age to the birthday boy, and even the fire truck came to save the day!"
Here's a video report from abc7: http://goo.gl/4apXvQ
- Brad Haugaard
"I'm at my sons 7th bday party at the recreational park, passed out invites and only invited his classmates from school 26 invites and rented out a game truck... Not one kid showed up. This really sucks"
Carmen Martinez describes what happened next:
"In no time at all Monrovians responded and a community came together. Many people showed up with kids of similar age to the birthday boy, and even the fire truck came to save the day!"
Here's a video report from abc7: http://goo.gl/4apXvQ
- Brad Haugaard
Questions and Answers Regarding Cloverleaf Entry Point to Monrovia Wilderness Preserve
I had a few questions about a section in City Manager Oliver Chi's latest weekly report regarding the Cloverleaf entry point to Monrovia's Wilderness Preserve. Here are my questions followed by his answers.
My questions:
- When you write about "access controls to allow for pedestrian use only at the Cloverleaf Access Point," do you mean the city is considering preventing bicyclists from using the gate? The *only* part is what concerns me.
- Could you clarify "On-street parking restrictions"? I asked Councilwoman Becky Shevlin about parking years ago before the city council voted to open the Cloverleaf gate and she said there was no plan to reduce the amount of parking. Is the city now considering reducing the amount of parking or limiting the time people can park, or what?
- It is clear that the city is doing a fine job of soliciting residents' input. Could you tell me what the city is doing to solicit input from potential users of the trails, such as hikers and bicyclists?
City Manager Oliver Chi's responses:
At this point in time, the City is not considering preventing bicyclists from utilizing the Hillside Wilderness Preserve. We are, however, considering and discussing the types of mitigations that might facilitate a solution to the concerns that residents living near the Cloverleaf Access Point have raised regarding bicyclists. One of the proposed solutions we have been reviewing is the possibility of installing some type of access gate at the Cloverleaf Access Point that would require bicyclists to dismount and walk through the gate as though they were a pedestrian. This discussion point has centered around the fact that some bicyclists have impacted residents with the speed in which they are traveling through the Hillside Wilderness Preserve.
With regard to your question regarding on-street parking restrictions, we have not been discussing a reduction in on-street parking, rather, we have been reviewing with the residents living near the Cloverleaf Access Point the possibility of creating a permit-parking only zone. The City has an existing process for residents who wish to create a permit-parking zone in their neighborhood, and in fact, we recently facilitated such a request from residents living along Ridgeside Drive just north of Canyon Boulevard. We have discussed with the impacted residents the possibility of instituting a permit parking only designation in their neighborhood to address the concerns that have been raised regarding neighborhood traffic impacts after the Cloverleaf Access Point is opened.
Finally, with regard to soliciting input from other potential users of the Hillside Wilderness Preserve, I can tell you that the City does have plans to seek input from others interested in the issues at hand, including hikers and bicyclists. However, engaging those constituencies right now would, in my opinion, be slightly premature. We have received enough feedback from the biking / hiking community to know that creating linkages and connections between all of our Hillside Wilderness Preserve Access Points is a key priority. We have also heard that the Cloverleaf Access Point is critical given the current connection available at the Ridgeside Access Point. The feedback we have received is that opening up the Cloverleaf Access Point would allow for bikers to ride from the Ridgeside Access Point through to Cloverleaf Drive, which is an important priority for the mountain biking community.
It is important to note, however, that at this point in time, we do not yet have any definitive plans to share with bikers and hikers regarding how access into the Hillside Wilderness Preserve will look, as we are still in the process of developing and updating possible concepts. Individual residents living near the Cloverleaf Access Point each have different concerns and issues they would like to see addressed as it relates to access into the Hillside Wilderness Preserve, and we have only just started to develop a consensus amongst the impacted neighbors regarding the key issues that the City should address prior to opening the Cloverleaf Access Point. Given the work that has been done date, I would imagine that within the next 2-3 weeks, we should have made enough progress to be able to have an intelligent conversation with the hiker / biker community regarding potential options moving forward. We will, of course, be certain to keep you informed as to where / when those follow-up discussions will take place.
- Brad Haugaard
My questions:
- When you write about "access controls to allow for pedestrian use only at the Cloverleaf Access Point," do you mean the city is considering preventing bicyclists from using the gate? The *only* part is what concerns me.
- Could you clarify "On-street parking restrictions"? I asked Councilwoman Becky Shevlin about parking years ago before the city council voted to open the Cloverleaf gate and she said there was no plan to reduce the amount of parking. Is the city now considering reducing the amount of parking or limiting the time people can park, or what?
- It is clear that the city is doing a fine job of soliciting residents' input. Could you tell me what the city is doing to solicit input from potential users of the trails, such as hikers and bicyclists?
City Manager Oliver Chi's responses:
At this point in time, the City is not considering preventing bicyclists from utilizing the Hillside Wilderness Preserve. We are, however, considering and discussing the types of mitigations that might facilitate a solution to the concerns that residents living near the Cloverleaf Access Point have raised regarding bicyclists. One of the proposed solutions we have been reviewing is the possibility of installing some type of access gate at the Cloverleaf Access Point that would require bicyclists to dismount and walk through the gate as though they were a pedestrian. This discussion point has centered around the fact that some bicyclists have impacted residents with the speed in which they are traveling through the Hillside Wilderness Preserve.
With regard to your question regarding on-street parking restrictions, we have not been discussing a reduction in on-street parking, rather, we have been reviewing with the residents living near the Cloverleaf Access Point the possibility of creating a permit-parking only zone. The City has an existing process for residents who wish to create a permit-parking zone in their neighborhood, and in fact, we recently facilitated such a request from residents living along Ridgeside Drive just north of Canyon Boulevard. We have discussed with the impacted residents the possibility of instituting a permit parking only designation in their neighborhood to address the concerns that have been raised regarding neighborhood traffic impacts after the Cloverleaf Access Point is opened.
Finally, with regard to soliciting input from other potential users of the Hillside Wilderness Preserve, I can tell you that the City does have plans to seek input from others interested in the issues at hand, including hikers and bicyclists. However, engaging those constituencies right now would, in my opinion, be slightly premature. We have received enough feedback from the biking / hiking community to know that creating linkages and connections between all of our Hillside Wilderness Preserve Access Points is a key priority. We have also heard that the Cloverleaf Access Point is critical given the current connection available at the Ridgeside Access Point. The feedback we have received is that opening up the Cloverleaf Access Point would allow for bikers to ride from the Ridgeside Access Point through to Cloverleaf Drive, which is an important priority for the mountain biking community.
It is important to note, however, that at this point in time, we do not yet have any definitive plans to share with bikers and hikers regarding how access into the Hillside Wilderness Preserve will look, as we are still in the process of developing and updating possible concepts. Individual residents living near the Cloverleaf Access Point each have different concerns and issues they would like to see addressed as it relates to access into the Hillside Wilderness Preserve, and we have only just started to develop a consensus amongst the impacted neighbors regarding the key issues that the City should address prior to opening the Cloverleaf Access Point. Given the work that has been done date, I would imagine that within the next 2-3 weeks, we should have made enough progress to be able to have an intelligent conversation with the hiker / biker community regarding potential options moving forward. We will, of course, be certain to keep you informed as to where / when those follow-up discussions will take place.
- Brad Haugaard
More Water Restrictions for Monrovia; Buying Extra Water; Contracting With Chamber of Commerce; Wilderness Preserve
At its Tuesday meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/r0CyyP ) the Monrovia City Council will consider updating its water rules for "residential, commercial, industrial, institutional and public landscaped areas" (except for "commercial nurseries, golf courses and other water dependent uses" ( http://goo.gl/8YbNao ). If adopted, the new rules will require ...
- Spray-irrigating only every third day and only between 6 p.m. and 8 a.m. Drip irrigation systems are okay. Also, it's okay to use extra water to plant low water usage plants, or if you use reclaimed water as permitted by law.
- You can water a landscaped area for no more than 15 minutes per watering day.
- You can't have water spray or flow onto "any impermeable private or public surface, including but not limited to, walkways, driveways, sidewalks, alleys, streets, or storm drains."
- No sprinkling or running fountains when winds could cause runoff onto those impermiable surfaces.
- You can't water for at least 48 hours after it rains more than a tenth of an inch.
- Hotels, motels and bed-and-breakfast places "shall provide customers the option of choosing not to have towels laundered daily."
- Low-flow waterless toilets for non-residential buildings, and new dishwashers and washing machines must be water-efficient.
Also, the council will consider ...
~ Purchasing $612,430 of water from the Azusa Valley Water Company ( http://goo.gl/3slP3X ) and $336,500 of water from the Main San Gabriel Basin ( http://goo.gl/QQ2Yg0 ). Monrovia's allotment is 5,740 acre feet of water per year, but it consumes 7,095 acre feet per year, creating a shortage of 1,355 acre feet.
~ Contracting with the Monrovia Chamber of Commerce in the amount of $43,819 for providing support services related local businesses. http://goo.gl/AUB6nF
And, at a special 5:30 p.m. meeting, the council will hold a study session on maintaining the city's wilderness preserve. http://goo.gl/MuITHI
- Brad Haugaard
- Spray-irrigating only every third day and only between 6 p.m. and 8 a.m. Drip irrigation systems are okay. Also, it's okay to use extra water to plant low water usage plants, or if you use reclaimed water as permitted by law.
- You can water a landscaped area for no more than 15 minutes per watering day.
- You can't have water spray or flow onto "any impermeable private or public surface, including but not limited to, walkways, driveways, sidewalks, alleys, streets, or storm drains."
- No sprinkling or running fountains when winds could cause runoff onto those impermiable surfaces.
- You can't water for at least 48 hours after it rains more than a tenth of an inch.
- Hotels, motels and bed-and-breakfast places "shall provide customers the option of choosing not to have towels laundered daily."
- Low-flow waterless toilets for non-residential buildings, and new dishwashers and washing machines must be water-efficient.
Also, the council will consider ...
~ Purchasing $612,430 of water from the Azusa Valley Water Company ( http://goo.gl/3slP3X ) and $336,500 of water from the Main San Gabriel Basin ( http://goo.gl/QQ2Yg0 ). Monrovia's allotment is 5,740 acre feet of water per year, but it consumes 7,095 acre feet per year, creating a shortage of 1,355 acre feet.
~ Contracting with the Monrovia Chamber of Commerce in the amount of $43,819 for providing support services related local businesses. http://goo.gl/AUB6nF
And, at a special 5:30 p.m. meeting, the council will hold a study session on maintaining the city's wilderness preserve. http://goo.gl/MuITHI
- Brad Haugaard
Service for Mother of Monrovia Treasurer Steve Baker
A service for the mother of Monrovia Treasurer and Historian, Steve Baker, will be held this coming Sunday, June 14, 1 p.m. at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 122 S. California Avenue in Monrovia.
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
A Whole Line of People Blessed at Monrovia Wendy's
Monrovian Deanna Robinson writes on Facebook about a whole string of people being blessed at Wendy's:
"We don't normally eat fast food, but we decided to go to Wendy's tonight. To be honest, I didn't feel like cooking because this is the anniversary of the death of someone who was/is still very important in my life. Well, someone in the drive-through decided to 'pay it forward' tonight and started a chain reaction where a whole line of cars paid for the car behind them. There were no cars behind me at all, so, I think I was a final recipient of a string of the kindness of strangers. Thank you for being so kind and showing a total stranger a piece of compassion today, on a day my heart is so heavy. Don't worry, I will also be paying it forward because of you. I wish you many blessings, whoever you are."
- Brad Haugaard
"We don't normally eat fast food, but we decided to go to Wendy's tonight. To be honest, I didn't feel like cooking because this is the anniversary of the death of someone who was/is still very important in my life. Well, someone in the drive-through decided to 'pay it forward' tonight and started a chain reaction where a whole line of cars paid for the car behind them. There were no cars behind me at all, so, I think I was a final recipient of a string of the kindness of strangers. Thank you for being so kind and showing a total stranger a piece of compassion today, on a day my heart is so heavy. Don't worry, I will also be paying it forward because of you. I wish you many blessings, whoever you are."
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police Carry Torch For Special Olympics
- Brad Haugaard
New Monrovia Starbucks at Foothill and Madison?
The Monrovia Development Review Committee has recommended that the Planning Commission approve a drive-through Starbucks at 860 West Foothill Blvd. ( http://goo.gl/CtEvWT ), which appears to be at the location of the current Burger Shack, at the corner of Foothill and Madison ( http://goo.gl/MkD4KM ).
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Cell Phone Stolen from Unlocked Car; Jeans Swiped From Store
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for June 8-10. - Brad Haugaard]
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 431 service events, resulting in 76 investigations.
Petty Theft From a Vehicle
June 8 at 7:02 p.m., police responded to a parking lot in the 600 block of South Shamrock on the report of a petty theft. A female adult went to pick up her child at the location and parked her vehicle in the lot. She left her vehicle unlocked with the windows open and her cell phone on her seat. She went inside the location for approximately 5 minutes. When she returned to her vehicle, her cell phone was gone. The investigation is continuing.
Petty Theft
June 8 at 8:08 p.m., a business in the 500 block of West Huntington called police to report a petty theft from the store. The loss prevention officer reported that a male adult entered the store and picked up a pair of jeans. He then ran out of the store without paying for the item. The investigation is continuing.
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 431 service events, resulting in 76 investigations.
Petty Theft From a Vehicle
June 8 at 7:02 p.m., police responded to a parking lot in the 600 block of South Shamrock on the report of a petty theft. A female adult went to pick up her child at the location and parked her vehicle in the lot. She left her vehicle unlocked with the windows open and her cell phone on her seat. She went inside the location for approximately 5 minutes. When she returned to her vehicle, her cell phone was gone. The investigation is continuing.
Petty Theft
June 8 at 8:08 p.m., a business in the 500 block of West Huntington called police to report a petty theft from the store. The loss prevention officer reported that a male adult entered the store and picked up a pair of jeans. He then ran out of the store without paying for the item. The investigation is continuing.
Samson the Bear Re-Unveiled
The Samson the Bear statue in Monrovia Canyon Park has been repaired. Here he is: https://goo.gl/f9n8xo
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Cuts Water Usage; Cloverleaf Access; Summer Reading; Etc.
From City Manager Oliver Chi's weekly report ...
~ In May, Monrovia cut its water usage by 19.8%, from 217.4 million gallons of water to 174.4 million gallons, a reduction of 43 million gallons.
~ The Cloverleaf Access Point Working Committee discussed concerns raised by neighbors living along Cloverleaf and Hidden Valley about the Cloverleaf access point to the city's Wilderness Area. Topics: On-street parking restrictions; new gates / access controls to allow for pedestrian use only at the Cloverleaf Access Point; enhanced city patrols; bike related concerns.
~ On June 20, starting at 12 p.m. at Library Park, there will be reading events held throughout the day to kick off the summer reading program. For more information, call the Monrovia Public Library at 256-8274.
~ Monrovia's Gold Line station dedication will take place on Saturday, September 12, 2015, at 10 a.m.
~ If you have an opinion about public transportation, the Southern California Association of Governments is inviting the public to provide input on the Regional Transportation Plan. June 29, 2015, from 9-11 a.m. at the Monrovia Community Center, 119 W. Palm Ave.
Source: http://goo.gl/B08bo9
- Brad Haugaard
~ In May, Monrovia cut its water usage by 19.8%, from 217.4 million gallons of water to 174.4 million gallons, a reduction of 43 million gallons.
~ The Cloverleaf Access Point Working Committee discussed concerns raised by neighbors living along Cloverleaf and Hidden Valley about the Cloverleaf access point to the city's Wilderness Area. Topics: On-street parking restrictions; new gates / access controls to allow for pedestrian use only at the Cloverleaf Access Point; enhanced city patrols; bike related concerns.
~ On June 20, starting at 12 p.m. at Library Park, there will be reading events held throughout the day to kick off the summer reading program. For more information, call the Monrovia Public Library at 256-8274.
~ Monrovia's Gold Line station dedication will take place on Saturday, September 12, 2015, at 10 a.m.
~ If you have an opinion about public transportation, the Southern California Association of Governments is inviting the public to provide input on the Regional Transportation Plan. June 29, 2015, from 9-11 a.m. at the Monrovia Community Center, 119 W. Palm Ave.
Source: http://goo.gl/B08bo9
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Reads Chili Bowl and BBQ
Monrovia Reads Chili Bowl and BBQ fundraiser, Sunday, July 12 at 4 p.m. at the Monrovia Historical Museum (742 E. Lemon). $100 per person. Includes food, drinks, ice cream sundae bar and entertainment. RSVP by July 3 to Diane Delmatoff: ddelmatoff@ci.monrovia.ca.us
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Mario Andretti Fuels Up at Monrovia Shell Station
Mario and Shell Owner Ramzi Rabadi.
Monrovia Shell Station owner Ramzi Rabadi writes to say: "We had an exciting moment last night at Monrovia Shell. Mario Andretti filling up gas (v-power nitro) in his Ferrari heading to Jay Leno garage.
Shell was doing a roadshow driving across the country. It started June 1 in Time Square and it ended at Monrovia Shell before going to Jay Leno's garage. Shell is promoting its new V-Power Nitro and our site was the winner as best image station in the Los Angeles Area. We knew Ferraris would be fueling up before ending at Jay Leno garage but were surprised to find out the driver of the lead Ferrari was Mario Andretti."
- Brad Haugaard
Netflix Commercial To Be Filmed in Monrovia
Diane Delmatoff, of the City of Monrovia, writes: "There will be a Netflix commercial filmed at 401-1/2 S. Myrtle (K.C. Hopper) on Thursday, June 11 from 6 a.m.-10 p.m. They will be prepping the store tomorrow from 8 am - 8 pm. They will be using the green zone on the south side of Lime alongside Monrovia Travel on the prep day for loading and unloading. They will use parking on Myrtle in front of the location, a few spaces on the north side of Lime next to Library Park for a generator and a craft service vehicle and the east side of Primrose."
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Fundraiser at Max's in Monrovia
Fundraiser for Relay for Life at Max's Mexican Cuisine, 1101 E. Huntington, June 10 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Details: http://goo.gl/mX42Y8
Cat and Dog Vaccination at Monrovia's Library Park | Vacation Bible School
~ Cat and Dog Vaccination Clinic, Thursday, June 18, 6:30-8 p.m. at Library Park. Vaccinations and microchips. Details: http://goo.gl/Lf0lL8
~ Vacation Bible School at Monrovia United Methodist Church, July 20-22, 9 a.m. to noon. 140 E. Palm. Registration: 303-2783. $10 per child.
- Brad Haugaard
~ Vacation Bible School at Monrovia United Methodist Church, July 20-22, 9 a.m. to noon. 140 E. Palm. Registration: 303-2783. $10 per child.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Two Green Lights? Snoozing at Stop Light; Minibikers Arrested; Etc.
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for June 4-7. - Brad Haugaard]
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 5 at 1:13 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 100 block of West Walnut when she stopped a motorist for failing to obey a traffic sign. A subsequent investigation revealed the motorist was intoxicated. The officer arrested the motorist and took him into custody. The motorist was held for sobering.
Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
June 5 at 12:58 a.m., an officer was in the area of Lime and Primrose on patrol when he observed a subject stumbling. The officer contacted the subject and determined he was too intoxicated to care for his own safety. The officer arrested the subject for public intoxication and took him into custody. The subject was held for sobering.
Injury Traffic Collision
June 5 at 4:35 a.m., an injury traffic collision was reported at Bradbury and Royal Oaks. A motorist was driving eastbound on Royal Oaks and struck a driver who was southbound on Bradbury, turning to eastbound Royal Oaks. Both drivers claimed the light was green in their direction. No independent witnesses could be located. Both vehicles sustained major damage and both drivers were checked for injury at the scene by Monrovia Fire Department paramedics. Both drivers declined to be taken to the hospital for minor injuries that were sustained. The vehicles were towed.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 5 at 4:50 a.m., an off-duty officer observed a vehicle stopped at Evergreen and Myrtle that did not move as the traffic light cycled through, and the driver appeared to be asleep behind the wheel. When the officer knocked on the window, the driver awoke and drifted into the intersection, swerving. The driver struck a curb on the right side of the freeway on-ramp and continued driving onto the freeway. The off-duty officer followed the driver onto the freeway and Monrovia and California Highway Patrol units responded to handle the incident. The vehicle then exited the freeway and drove west on Live Oak, where it was stopped by police. The driver was arrested for driving under the influence and his vehicle was stored. A marijuana pipe and marijuana was also located inside the vehicle. The driver was held for sobering.
Traffic Offense / Evading a Peace Officer / Driving Without a License – Suspects Arrested
June 5 at 4:25 p.m., an officer responded to Mayflower and Hillcrest regarding speeding vehicles. While he was speaking with the reporting party, two young men on minibikes drove by on the street. They were on vehicles that were not properly equipped for public streets. The resident told him that these young men ride the minibikes on the street frequently. The officer followed and attempted to stop them by activating his red light and siren. The subjects looked back at the officer and increased their speed, failing to yield. The officer was able to get the subjects to stop after a brief pursuit. One rider was a licensed adult and the other was an unlicensed seventeen-year-old subject. They were arrested for the above listed violations. The minibikes were stored as evidence.
No-bail Warrants – Suspect Arrested
June 5 at 5:20 p.m., an officer was in the area of Huntington and Buena Vista on patrol, when he observed a male subject that he knew had an outstanding no-bail warrant for his arrest. He was able to stop and detain the subject and confirmed he had two no-bail warrants. He was arrested without incident.
Critical Missing Adult – Subject Located
June 6 at 10:37 a.m., a 21-year-old female took her mother’s car from her residence in the 500 block of East Almond and drove away, even though she is unlicensed. Her mother was extremely concerned because of her daughter’s state of mind. She was entered into the law enforcement system as a critical missing person and law enforcement agencies were notified. At approximately 3:30 p.m., detectives received a call from a California Highway Patrol officer advising that the missing female had been arrested for driving under the influence. She was arrested on Interstate 15, about an hour past Barstow. Her mother was notified that she was located, and she was removed from the missing person’s system.
Driving Under the Influence Traffic Collision With Injuries – Suspect Arrested
June 6 at 5:19 p.m., officers responded to an injury traffic collision in the 700 block of East Central. The male driver was westbound on Central and struck a pedestrian who was crossing the street. The victim suffered head trauma and a broken rib. He was taken to a hospital for treatment. The driver was determined to be intoxicated and was arrested for DUI. He will be charged for felony driving under the influence traffic collision with serious injury.
Grand Theft Auto
June 6 at 1:38 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 700 block of South Mayflower Avenue. The victim reported parking and securing her vehicle at approximately 1:30 a.m. She did not return to the vehicle until 1:30 p.m., when she found it was missing and called police. She does not know who took her vehicle and did not give anyone permission to drive her car. The vehicle stolen is a blue/green, 1994 Honda Accord. The investigation is continuing.
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 5 at 1:13 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 100 block of West Walnut when she stopped a motorist for failing to obey a traffic sign. A subsequent investigation revealed the motorist was intoxicated. The officer arrested the motorist and took him into custody. The motorist was held for sobering.
Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
June 5 at 12:58 a.m., an officer was in the area of Lime and Primrose on patrol when he observed a subject stumbling. The officer contacted the subject and determined he was too intoxicated to care for his own safety. The officer arrested the subject for public intoxication and took him into custody. The subject was held for sobering.
Injury Traffic Collision
June 5 at 4:35 a.m., an injury traffic collision was reported at Bradbury and Royal Oaks. A motorist was driving eastbound on Royal Oaks and struck a driver who was southbound on Bradbury, turning to eastbound Royal Oaks. Both drivers claimed the light was green in their direction. No independent witnesses could be located. Both vehicles sustained major damage and both drivers were checked for injury at the scene by Monrovia Fire Department paramedics. Both drivers declined to be taken to the hospital for minor injuries that were sustained. The vehicles were towed.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 5 at 4:50 a.m., an off-duty officer observed a vehicle stopped at Evergreen and Myrtle that did not move as the traffic light cycled through, and the driver appeared to be asleep behind the wheel. When the officer knocked on the window, the driver awoke and drifted into the intersection, swerving. The driver struck a curb on the right side of the freeway on-ramp and continued driving onto the freeway. The off-duty officer followed the driver onto the freeway and Monrovia and California Highway Patrol units responded to handle the incident. The vehicle then exited the freeway and drove west on Live Oak, where it was stopped by police. The driver was arrested for driving under the influence and his vehicle was stored. A marijuana pipe and marijuana was also located inside the vehicle. The driver was held for sobering.
Traffic Offense / Evading a Peace Officer / Driving Without a License – Suspects Arrested
June 5 at 4:25 p.m., an officer responded to Mayflower and Hillcrest regarding speeding vehicles. While he was speaking with the reporting party, two young men on minibikes drove by on the street. They were on vehicles that were not properly equipped for public streets. The resident told him that these young men ride the minibikes on the street frequently. The officer followed and attempted to stop them by activating his red light and siren. The subjects looked back at the officer and increased their speed, failing to yield. The officer was able to get the subjects to stop after a brief pursuit. One rider was a licensed adult and the other was an unlicensed seventeen-year-old subject. They were arrested for the above listed violations. The minibikes were stored as evidence.
No-bail Warrants – Suspect Arrested
June 5 at 5:20 p.m., an officer was in the area of Huntington and Buena Vista on patrol, when he observed a male subject that he knew had an outstanding no-bail warrant for his arrest. He was able to stop and detain the subject and confirmed he had two no-bail warrants. He was arrested without incident.
Critical Missing Adult – Subject Located
June 6 at 10:37 a.m., a 21-year-old female took her mother’s car from her residence in the 500 block of East Almond and drove away, even though she is unlicensed. Her mother was extremely concerned because of her daughter’s state of mind. She was entered into the law enforcement system as a critical missing person and law enforcement agencies were notified. At approximately 3:30 p.m., detectives received a call from a California Highway Patrol officer advising that the missing female had been arrested for driving under the influence. She was arrested on Interstate 15, about an hour past Barstow. Her mother was notified that she was located, and she was removed from the missing person’s system.
Driving Under the Influence Traffic Collision With Injuries – Suspect Arrested
June 6 at 5:19 p.m., officers responded to an injury traffic collision in the 700 block of East Central. The male driver was westbound on Central and struck a pedestrian who was crossing the street. The victim suffered head trauma and a broken rib. He was taken to a hospital for treatment. The driver was determined to be intoxicated and was arrested for DUI. He will be charged for felony driving under the influence traffic collision with serious injury.
Grand Theft Auto
June 6 at 1:38 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 700 block of South Mayflower Avenue. The victim reported parking and securing her vehicle at approximately 1:30 a.m. She did not return to the vehicle until 1:30 p.m., when she found it was missing and called police. She does not know who took her vehicle and did not give anyone permission to drive her car. The vehicle stolen is a blue/green, 1994 Honda Accord. The investigation is continuing.
Slight Chance of Rain for Monrovia Tuesday, Wednesday
20% chance of rain Tuesday and Wednesday ( http://goo.gl/VnR5SB ), but the National Weather Service puts it more strongly: "As moisture from tropical storm Blanca streams into the area...the threat of showers will increase across the area during the day on Tuesday...with the shower threat peaking in the afternoon." Hmm. I think I'd prefer the word "promise" to "threat," but whatever. http://goo.gl/14uNvx
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Dance Against Cancer | Removing Fallen Tree in Monrovia's Canyon Park
~ Dance against pediatric cancer, Sunday, June 7 from noon to 4 p.m. in the courtyard of the Aztec Hotel. All proceeds to St. Jude Children's Hospital. For a donation of $5 or more you get a $10 coupon for services at Mane Salon. Auctions, face painting, gold fish pong, a jumper and food trucks.
~ Pictures and video of removing a fallen tree on the trail to the Canyon Park waterfall. http://goo.gl/t1OyhU
- Brad Haugaard
~ Pictures and video of removing a fallen tree on the trail to the Canyon Park waterfall. http://goo.gl/t1OyhU
- Brad Haugaard
Stats on Monrovia's Fountain To The Falls Run
- Brad Haugaard
Tile at Monrovia Gold Line Station
- Brad Haugaard
Citrus College - Serving Monrovia - Celebrates its Centennial
A letter from Geraldine M. Perri, Ph.D. Superintendent/President Citrus College
The year was 1915. A gallon of gas cost 15 cents, and you could use it to fill the tank of your new car purchased from the pages of the Sears catalog. At Harvard University, tuition was $160 annually, and the cost of the most expensive mathematics textbook available was $2.50.
At a time in America when only 13.5 percent of people over the age of 25 had a high school diploma, a new idea in higher education was sweeping the nation—the junior college. In the early 1900s, three-quarters of high school graduates were choosing not to further their education due to financial, logistical or social reasons. National leaders were beginning to realize that a more highly-skilled workforce was vital to the country's economic strength. Extolling the ideals of democracy and education for all, advocates of the junior college movement proposed providing the first two years of a college education—tuition free—to high school graduates at schools they were already attending.
On the evening of June 5, 1915, the forward-looking board of education of Citrus Union High School voted to establish Citrus Junior College, making Citrus College the oldest community college in Los Angeles County and the fifth oldest in the state.
Who could have imagined 100 years ago that Citrus Junior College, with its first class of 27 students and no more than seven courses to choose from, would evolve into a nationally acclaimed community college with more than 18,000 students, awarding degrees and certificates in 94 academic and career technical program areas?
Today, Citrus College is a recognized leader among community colleges in the nation, the state and the region. This year alone, the publication Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education ranked Citrus College as one of the Top 25 community colleges in the country for degree completion by Hispanic students. Citrus College has been recognized by PayScale, Inc. as one of the nation’s top 10 public two-year colleges based on alumni earning potential, and GI Jobs magazine named Citrus College a Military Friendly School® for the fifth consecutive year.
In the state, Citrus College has received commendation as a leader in developing and awarding Associate Degrees for Transfer, or ADTs, which allow students to transfer to the California State University system with junior standing. In fact, since the first class of students eligible to earn an ADT from Citrus College graduated in 2012, the number of ADTs awarded at commencement has grown from 39 to 549. Currently, Citrus College offers 16 ADTs, and the college ranks number one among California’s community colleges for awarding ADTs in science.
Locally, for the second consecutive year, Citrus College was honored to be named “Best Community College” in the San Gabriel Valley in a reader’s choice poll by the San Gabriel Valley Newsgroup publications.
In 2012, Citrus College students, faculty, staff and institutional leaders signed a pledge to make Citrus College a College of Completion. Since that time, the college has set new records for the numbers of degrees and certificates awarded at commencement each year. On June 13, 2015, we expect to break another college record by awarding more than 2,500 degrees and certificates, up from 2,119 last year.
All of these amazing achievements—and many others—can be credited with the fact that Citrus College was recently named the fifth fastest-growing community college in the United States among its peer institutions by Community College Week magazine.
Although much has changed since the college was founded in 1915, there are several fundamental tenets that have guided the institution throughout the decades. Those include an emphasis on transfer; outstanding faculty and staff that are committed to student success; board members and administrators with a vision for the future; and strong reciprocal partnerships with the communities we serve.
On the occasion of our 100th anniversary and on behalf of the entire Citrus College Community, it is my honor to thank all those with whom Citrus College has partnered throughout the years—our K-12 school districts, our alumni and donors, community and business leaders, and the members of the communities we serve. We couldn’t have done it without you!
Today, it is evident that Citrus College stands at the threshold of a future filled with exciting possibilities. We look forward to continuing our ongoing pursuit of educational excellence, as we begin our next 100 years.
- Brad Haugaard
Dinner at Mimi's
Had dinner last night at Mimi's, at the corner of Huntington and Mayflower. Had the roasted chicken and french fries ($15.99) and an iced tea ($2.99). It was all pretty good.
- Brad Haugaard
Assembly Approves AP Classes Bill Sponsored By Monrovia Assemblyman
The Assembly today approved a bill (AB 252) creating a grant program to help school districts in poor communities develop Advanced Placement courses in science, technology, engineering, math and computer science. The bill was authored by Assembly member Chris Holden, who represents Monrovia. Source: Holden press release
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Suspects Hang Around After Robbery, Get Arrested; Drunk Driving; Wife Yells For Help, Then Is Arrested For Assaulting Husband
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for June 1-3. - Brad Haugaard]
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 397 service events, resulting in 70 investigations.
Armed Robbery – Suspects Arrested
On June 1 at 1:13 a.m., an officer on patrol stopped a red Chevy Camaro on Foothill for a traffic violation. The vehicle was occupied by two male subjects in their twenties. The subjects claimed they were looking for an address and were distracted. The driver was let go with a warning. Shortly after, a female victim was robbed of her Verizon note pad by two male suspects in a red Chevy Camaro with handguns. Officers searched for the suspects and vehicle, but were unable to locate them.
On June 1 at 10:27 p.m., the officer that made the original traffic stop saw the vehicle and suspects stopped at Madison and Foothill. A high-risk stop was made with the assistance of the Foothill Air Support helicopter. A search of the vehicle revealed two Airsoft guns and the property stolen in the robbery. The suspects were arrested and taken into custody, and the vehicle was stored as evidence.
Hit and Run Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 2 at 10:02 p.m., officers responded to a traffic collision at Colorado and Mayflower. One of the vehicles tried fleeing the scene and the other driver chased after the vehicle. Both vehicles stopped at Olive and Monterey until officers arrived. Further investigation revealed the fleeing driver had been drinking alcohol. The driver was arrested for driving under the influence. There were no injuries from the collision.
Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
June 4 at 12:06 a.m., officers responded to the report of a female yelling for help in the 1800 block of South Mayflower. Officers arrived and located the house where the screaming was coming from. Investigation revealed the female subject had attacked her husband while he was trying to go to sleep. The husband had visible injuries to his neck and face. The wife was arrested for domestic violence.
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 397 service events, resulting in 70 investigations.
Armed Robbery – Suspects Arrested
On June 1 at 1:13 a.m., an officer on patrol stopped a red Chevy Camaro on Foothill for a traffic violation. The vehicle was occupied by two male subjects in their twenties. The subjects claimed they were looking for an address and were distracted. The driver was let go with a warning. Shortly after, a female victim was robbed of her Verizon note pad by two male suspects in a red Chevy Camaro with handguns. Officers searched for the suspects and vehicle, but were unable to locate them.
On June 1 at 10:27 p.m., the officer that made the original traffic stop saw the vehicle and suspects stopped at Madison and Foothill. A high-risk stop was made with the assistance of the Foothill Air Support helicopter. A search of the vehicle revealed two Airsoft guns and the property stolen in the robbery. The suspects were arrested and taken into custody, and the vehicle was stored as evidence.
Hit and Run Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 2 at 10:02 p.m., officers responded to a traffic collision at Colorado and Mayflower. One of the vehicles tried fleeing the scene and the other driver chased after the vehicle. Both vehicles stopped at Olive and Monterey until officers arrived. Further investigation revealed the fleeing driver had been drinking alcohol. The driver was arrested for driving under the influence. There were no injuries from the collision.
Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
June 4 at 12:06 a.m., officers responded to the report of a female yelling for help in the 1800 block of South Mayflower. Officers arrived and located the house where the screaming was coming from. Investigation revealed the female subject had attacked her husband while he was trying to go to sleep. The husband had visible injuries to his neck and face. The wife was arrested for domestic violence.
Emergency Repair to Prevent Water System Failure; Homelessness In Park; 4th of July; Etc.
From City Manager Oliver Chi's weekly report ( http://goo.gl/zzv6vb ):
~ The city is doing emergency repairs to prevent a water "system failure." A pump at the 510 South Mountain Avenue facility hasn't been working since 2005, and now another pump is threatening to go out. This water-booster station supplies the "Cloverleaf Pressure Zone," which sounds like a stretch of north Monrovia near Cloverleaf.
~ Monrovia Police Chief Hunt is reconvening the Homelessness and Park Conduct Committee to review the effectiveness of our current strategies, and discuss potential adjustments.
~ The 4th of July Concert and Fireworks Show will begin at 7 p.m. with the band, Person to Person, in Library Park. Then at 9 p.m., a free 20 minute fireworks show. You may reserve a space no larger than 10 x 10 feet, which must be supervised at all times.
~ City Treasurer and Monrovia's Historian Steve Baker lost his mother last Friday, May 29, 2015. She lived to be 101 years old. Comment: Sorry to hear that, Steve.
~ Two drinking fountains in Old Town are being fixed. The Wishing Well Drinking Fountain (I think that's the one in Library Park) was totally inoperable, while the drinking fountain between Chang Thai Bistro and Pinkberry was leaking.
- Brad Haugaard
~ The city is doing emergency repairs to prevent a water "system failure." A pump at the 510 South Mountain Avenue facility hasn't been working since 2005, and now another pump is threatening to go out. This water-booster station supplies the "Cloverleaf Pressure Zone," which sounds like a stretch of north Monrovia near Cloverleaf.
~ Monrovia Police Chief Hunt is reconvening the Homelessness and Park Conduct Committee to review the effectiveness of our current strategies, and discuss potential adjustments.
~ The 4th of July Concert and Fireworks Show will begin at 7 p.m. with the band, Person to Person, in Library Park. Then at 9 p.m., a free 20 minute fireworks show. You may reserve a space no larger than 10 x 10 feet, which must be supervised at all times.
~ City Treasurer and Monrovia's Historian Steve Baker lost his mother last Friday, May 29, 2015. She lived to be 101 years old. Comment: Sorry to hear that, Steve.
~ Two drinking fountains in Old Town are being fixed. The Wishing Well Drinking Fountain (I think that's the one in Library Park) was totally inoperable, while the drinking fountain between Chang Thai Bistro and Pinkberry was leaking.
- Brad Haugaard
Citrus College Voted Best Local Community College
Citrus College, which serves Monrovia, has once again been recognized as the region's "Best Community College" in a poll conducted by the San Gabriel Valley Newsgroup. For the second year in a row, readers of the organization's newspapers and websites indicated that they preferred Citrus College over the area's other community colleges.
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Loses to Temple City :-(
Temple City defeats Monrovia to advance to baseball title championship. http://goo.gl/Rxe6XB
- Brad Haugaard
- Brad Haugaard
Assembly Approves Monrovia Assembly Member's Bills
~ The Assembly today unanimously approved Assemblymember Chris Holden's bill would create a partnership between high schools and community colleges to allow students to take college-level courses at their high schools or on community college campuses. The vote was 75 to 0.
~ The Assembly has overwhelmingly approved legislation authored by Assemblymember Chris Holden to allow those over age 55 or the disabled to transfer the base value of their property to a new residence as long as the new house is in the same county and costs less than the old residence's sale price. Currently, California seniors over 55 and disabled adults are permitted to transfer the assessed value of their present home to a new home - but only one spouse or partner can claim the tax transfer. AB 1378 ensures both property owners in a recognized partnership are entitled to the base tax transfer.
Holden represents Monrovia. Source: Holden press release
- Brad Haugaard
~ The Assembly has overwhelmingly approved legislation authored by Assemblymember Chris Holden to allow those over age 55 or the disabled to transfer the base value of their property to a new residence as long as the new house is in the same county and costs less than the old residence's sale price. Currently, California seniors over 55 and disabled adults are permitted to transfer the assessed value of their present home to a new home - but only one spouse or partner can claim the tax transfer. AB 1378 ensures both property owners in a recognized partnership are entitled to the base tax transfer.
Holden represents Monrovia. Source: Holden press release
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Lots of Bears; 'Influencing' a Bear; No License But Lots of Social Security Numbers; Take It All But Spare My Phone! Etc.
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for Highlighted Activity for May 28-31. - Brad Haugaard]
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Vehicle Burglary
May 29 at 2:45 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 900 block of West Huntington. The victim's vehicle was parked and locked in a parking stall. Unknown suspect(s) smashed the victim's passenger window and removed property that was left on the front passenger seat. The investigation is continuing.
Bear Incident
May 29 at 10:03 a.m., and officer responded to a residence in the 800 block of Wildrose regarding a bear. The homeowner saw a bear rip the metal screen off of the crawl space under her house, but didn't know if the bear had crawled inside the space. The officer checked the crawl space and the surrounding area, but the bear was gone from the location.
Bear Incident
May 29 at 2:44 p.m., a resident in the 800 block of East Foothill called police and reported a bear swimming in the backyard pool of the home. An officer arrived and saw a juvenile bear in the backyard. He attempted to get the bear to move back into the foothills, however, it wouldn't leave the area. The officer then deployed two beanbag rounds at the bear, which successfully influenced the bear to return to the foothills.
Bear Incident
May 29 at 3:14 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 800 block of Crescent on the report of a very large bear in a resident's backyard, but when officers arrived, the bear was gone. Callers began reporting the bear walking along Hillcrest. Officers responded to Hillcrest and located the bear in a backyard at the base of a large tree. They discovered her two cubs at the top of the tree. The mother began walking toward the officers, so two beanbags rounds were deployed at her, causing her to run away from the officers. She jumped a fence into another yard and then couldn't be found. The Department of Fish and Wildlife responded and stayed in the area until the cubs came down out of the tree to reunite with their mother and they all returned to the foothills.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
May 29 at 8:25 p.m., a non-injury traffic collision was reported in the 800 block of Monterey. The investigation revealed that one of the motorists was driving under the influence of alcohol. The driver was arrested, taken into custody, and held for sobering.
Unlicensed Driver / Incident Report – Suspect Arrested
May 30 at 1:17 a.m., an officer stopped a motorist for a vehicle code violation. Further investigation revealed the motorist was an unlicensed driver and was found to be in possession of documents containing other people’s social security numbers. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody. The officer determined the suspect was using the social security numbers for employment purposes. The investigation is continuing and the report will be forward to the IRS to protect potential victims from receiving IRS penalties for unreported income.
Warrant Arrest
May 30 at 2:02 a.m., an officer was on patrol and stopped a motorist for a vehicle code violation in the area of Peck and Emery. The officer discovered the motorist had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. The warrant was issued by the El Monte Police Department. The officer arrested the suspect for the warrant and El Monte police officers responded to the Monrovia jail and took custody of the suspect.
Possession of Methamphetamine / Under the Influence of Methamphetamine – Suspect Arrested
May 30 at 9:38 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a business in the 500 block of West Huntington Drive regarding suspicious subjects loitering behind a store. When the officer arrived, he contacted the subjects and determined one of them, a female, was under the influence of methamphetamine. She was also found to be in possession of a small amount of methamphetamine and a glass methamphetamine pipe. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.
Possession of Metal Knuckles / Minors in Possession of Alcohol – Suspects Arrested
May 30 at 11:04 p.m., an officer was patrolling the 200 block of East Olive when he noticed two suspicious subjects loitering in the alley. The officer attempted to contact the subjects and they ran from him. The officer eventually found the subjects hiding behind a vehicle and discovered they were minors that were consuming alcohol. The officer also found metal knuckles beneath the vehicle where the juveniles were hiding. The juveniles were arrested and released on citations to their parents.
Armed Robbery
June 1 at 2:03 a.m., officers responded to the 400 block of South Myrtle on the report of a robbery that had just occurred. The female victim reported she had been robbed approximately 15 minutes prior at the intersection of Myrtle and Huntington. She told the officers she had left a bar in the 400 block of South Myrtle and had walked to Huntington and Myrtle alone. A red Chevrolet Camaro drove up next to her and stopped. A male passenger exited the vehicle, pointed a black handgun at her and demanded she give him her purse. The victim refused, so the suspect grabbed the purse and they began to struggle with it. She told him to take everything except her phone. The male driver then leaned over the passenger seat, pointed another gun at the victim, and ordered the other suspect to shoot her. Distracted, the purse was pulled from the victim's grasp and its contents fell onto the ground. The suspect began picking up the contents and putting it back into the purse. The female picked up her phone. Once all the contents were back in the purse, the suspect walked up to the female and grabbed her phone. Both suspects then fled in the vehicle west on Huntington. Officers searched the area for the suspects, but were unable to locate them. This investigation is continuing.
Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.
Vehicle Burglary
May 29 at 2:45 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 900 block of West Huntington. The victim's vehicle was parked and locked in a parking stall. Unknown suspect(s) smashed the victim's passenger window and removed property that was left on the front passenger seat. The investigation is continuing.
Bear Incident
May 29 at 10:03 a.m., and officer responded to a residence in the 800 block of Wildrose regarding a bear. The homeowner saw a bear rip the metal screen off of the crawl space under her house, but didn't know if the bear had crawled inside the space. The officer checked the crawl space and the surrounding area, but the bear was gone from the location.
Bear Incident
May 29 at 2:44 p.m., a resident in the 800 block of East Foothill called police and reported a bear swimming in the backyard pool of the home. An officer arrived and saw a juvenile bear in the backyard. He attempted to get the bear to move back into the foothills, however, it wouldn't leave the area. The officer then deployed two beanbag rounds at the bear, which successfully influenced the bear to return to the foothills.
Bear Incident
May 29 at 3:14 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 800 block of Crescent on the report of a very large bear in a resident's backyard, but when officers arrived, the bear was gone. Callers began reporting the bear walking along Hillcrest. Officers responded to Hillcrest and located the bear in a backyard at the base of a large tree. They discovered her two cubs at the top of the tree. The mother began walking toward the officers, so two beanbags rounds were deployed at her, causing her to run away from the officers. She jumped a fence into another yard and then couldn't be found. The Department of Fish and Wildlife responded and stayed in the area until the cubs came down out of the tree to reunite with their mother and they all returned to the foothills.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
May 29 at 8:25 p.m., a non-injury traffic collision was reported in the 800 block of Monterey. The investigation revealed that one of the motorists was driving under the influence of alcohol. The driver was arrested, taken into custody, and held for sobering.
Unlicensed Driver / Incident Report – Suspect Arrested
May 30 at 1:17 a.m., an officer stopped a motorist for a vehicle code violation. Further investigation revealed the motorist was an unlicensed driver and was found to be in possession of documents containing other people’s social security numbers. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody. The officer determined the suspect was using the social security numbers for employment purposes. The investigation is continuing and the report will be forward to the IRS to protect potential victims from receiving IRS penalties for unreported income.
Warrant Arrest
May 30 at 2:02 a.m., an officer was on patrol and stopped a motorist for a vehicle code violation in the area of Peck and Emery. The officer discovered the motorist had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. The warrant was issued by the El Monte Police Department. The officer arrested the suspect for the warrant and El Monte police officers responded to the Monrovia jail and took custody of the suspect.
Possession of Methamphetamine / Under the Influence of Methamphetamine – Suspect Arrested
May 30 at 9:38 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a business in the 500 block of West Huntington Drive regarding suspicious subjects loitering behind a store. When the officer arrived, he contacted the subjects and determined one of them, a female, was under the influence of methamphetamine. She was also found to be in possession of a small amount of methamphetamine and a glass methamphetamine pipe. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.
Possession of Metal Knuckles / Minors in Possession of Alcohol – Suspects Arrested
May 30 at 11:04 p.m., an officer was patrolling the 200 block of East Olive when he noticed two suspicious subjects loitering in the alley. The officer attempted to contact the subjects and they ran from him. The officer eventually found the subjects hiding behind a vehicle and discovered they were minors that were consuming alcohol. The officer also found metal knuckles beneath the vehicle where the juveniles were hiding. The juveniles were arrested and released on citations to their parents.
Armed Robbery
June 1 at 2:03 a.m., officers responded to the 400 block of South Myrtle on the report of a robbery that had just occurred. The female victim reported she had been robbed approximately 15 minutes prior at the intersection of Myrtle and Huntington. She told the officers she had left a bar in the 400 block of South Myrtle and had walked to Huntington and Myrtle alone. A red Chevrolet Camaro drove up next to her and stopped. A male passenger exited the vehicle, pointed a black handgun at her and demanded she give him her purse. The victim refused, so the suspect grabbed the purse and they began to struggle with it. She told him to take everything except her phone. The male driver then leaned over the passenger seat, pointed another gun at the victim, and ordered the other suspect to shoot her. Distracted, the purse was pulled from the victim's grasp and its contents fell onto the ground. The suspect began picking up the contents and putting it back into the purse. The female picked up her phone. Once all the contents were back in the purse, the suspect walked up to the female and grabbed her phone. Both suspects then fled in the vehicle west on Huntington. Officers searched the area for the suspects, but were unable to locate them. This investigation is continuing.