City Council: Next 'Neighborhood Treasure' is Japanese American Community; Federal Recreation Area Overlapping Monrovia

Proposed plaque honoring Japanese American community.

At its next meeting the Monrovia City Council will ...

~ Consider spending up to $15,500 for a plaque commemorating Monrovia's Japanese American community, the latest in the Neighborhood Treasures series. Called "Pioneers of Monrovia," the plaque, which will be mounted on a post in a neighborhood near Huntington Drive "commemorates the history of Japanese Americans in Monrovia, who made significant advancements for local agricultural and business interests." It also remembers their internment after the attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II. Ten proposals were submitted and the Allocation of Art in Public Places Committee unanimously selected the proposal by Maryrose Mendoza. Installation is scheduled to take place the week of May 13. https://goo.gl/bcYfXS

~  Hear a report on a proposed bill by Senator Kamala Harris, which would mirror Congress member Judy Chu's proposal in the House of Representatives, to create a recreation area in the mountains behind Monrovia, and which would overlap a bit into the city itself. https://goo.gl/cTkEmV

- Brad Haugaard

City Council to Discuss Two Monrovia Properties

Property on Highland that is under discussion.

In a closed session meeting before next Tuesday's regular Monrovia City Council meeting, the council will meet to discuss "price and terms" for two properties:

1. The parking lot at 217 E. Lime, on the north side of the street about a block and a half east of Myrtle. The city is negotiating with Overton Moore Properties, which is "a premier full service commercial real estate company," according to the company's web site.

2. A large property at 347 Highland Place, in north Monrovia and, interestingly, adjacent to the Hillside Wilderness Area.

In both instances it is unclear who the buyer is and who is the seller is. I could guess but I won't.

https://goo.gl/1V47Tj

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Something Healthy Cafe

Lunch at Something Healthy Cafe , on the east side of Shamrock just north of Huntington. Got the Southwest Salad for $9.25 and for $2.25 upgraded from a bag of chips to a cup of coconut curry soup. Nice outdoor seating for pleasant days. The food was really excellent! Why don’t I come here more often?

- Brad Haugaard 

Spring Library Book Sale in May

On Friday, May 17 through Sunday, May 19 the Friends of the Monrovia Public Library will hold its Spring Book Sale. (Members get to pick through books the day before, if you want to join.) Hundreds of books for all ages for sale at rock-bottom prices. Friday noon to 5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., and from 4-5 p.m. for the $5-a-Bag sale. https://goo.gl/orgVCA


- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Mom Won't Give Son Money, He Hits Her; Social Security Phone Scam; She Scratches Him; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for Highlighted Activity for March 21-27. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 424 service events, resulting in 71 investigations.

Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
March 22 at 2:19 a.m., a resident in the 500 block of W. Duarte called to report a male and female arguing in the area and causing a disturbance. Officers responded and located the subjects. An investigation was conducted and the male subject was found to be in possession of methamphetamine. He was arrested for possession of a controlled substance.

Traffic Collision
March 22 at 10:21 a.m., a traffic collision was reported at the intersection of Fifth and Huntington. A motorist was involved in a minor, non-injury, traffic collision with another vehicle. She requested an officer assist them in exchanging information only and did not desire a report. Information was exchanged.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
March 22 at 8:00 p.m., a subject was reported soliciting in a parking lot of a business in the 100 block of W. Foothill. Officers arrived to the location and contacted the subject. The subject smelled of alcohol and was determined to be too intoxicated to care for himself or the safety of others. He was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
March 22 at 8:40 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 400 block of W. Huntington when he saw a man stumbling along the sidewalk, nearly falling into the street. The officer contacted the subject to check on his welfare and determined the man was too intoxicated to care for himself or the safety of others. He was arrested for public intoxication and held for a sobering period.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 22 at 11:07 p.m., officers were patrolling the 2500 block of S. Myrtle when they saw a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed and swerving in lanes of traffic. A traffic stop was conducted and further investigation revealed the driver was intoxicated. The driver was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Battery
March 23 at 6:27 p.m., a physical altercation between a male and female was reported at a residence in the 1700 block of S. Mayflower. Officers arrived on scene, but the male subject fled prior to their arrival. The female victim is the male suspect's mother. She reported that her adult son came to her house asking for money, and when she refused to give him money, he battered her. The victim was treated on scene by Monrovia Fire Department paramedics for minor injuries. An emergency protective order was obtained against the suspect. Investigation continuing.

Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
March 23 at 9:16 p.m., an officer detained a suspicious subject who was loitering in the 700 block of E. Huntington where an alarm activation occurred. During a consensual search of the subject, a methamphetamine pipe was recovered from his pocket. He was arrested and later released with a citation to appear in court.

Fraud / False Personation – Suspects Arrested
March 23 at 10:16 p.m., an employee from a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington called to report a shoplifting incident that had just occurred. Officers arrived on scene and located the suspects. During the investigation, the female suspect produced someone else's identification to officers and tried to pass it off as her own. The male suspect was found to be in possession of various identification cards and bank cards issued to different people. Both suspects were arrested for a variety of charges. During the booking process, it was revealed that the female suspect was not truthful about her name. Once she was positively identified, a computer check revealed she had a full-extradition warrant from the US Marshalls for her arrest.

Driving Under the Influence / Non-Injury Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
March 23 at 11:21 p.m., a vehicle was traveling east in the 400 block of W. Duarte and collided into a parked vehicle. Officers arrived on scene and during the collision investigation, there were indicators that the driver was under the influence of alcohol. Field sobriety tests were conducted, and the driver was found to be under the influence of alcohol. The driver was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Vehicle Burglary
March 24 at 4:45 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 700 block of E. Huntington. The victim called to report his vehicle was broken into while it was parked at a business. The vehicle window was smashed and miscellaneous paperwork was taken. The investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting
March 24 at 4:17 p.m., a shoplifting incident was reported at a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington. An employee called to report that two suspects entered the store, took merchandise and fled in a vehicle. Investigation continuing.

Telephone Scam
March 25 at 7:08 a.m., a resident in the 500 block of E. Los Angeles reported she had received a call from a male suspect who identified himself as working for the Social Security Administration. The suspect threatened that if she did not give him her social security number, he would send the FBI to her house to arrest her. The victim hung up the phone and called the police. The investigation determined this was a scam telephone call with the intent to defraud the resident. Several other residents throughout the city received similar calls throughout the day.

Trash Picking / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
March 25 at 9:17 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of N. Shamrock reported a male subject rummaging through homeowners private trash cans. Officers responded and contacted the subject, who advised he knew he was not permitted to rummage through trash cans, but was going to continue doing it anyway. A computer check revealed he had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested for the warrant and taken into custody.

Shoplifting
March 25 at 4:52 p.m., security for a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington reported a shoplifting incident that just occurred. A male suspect entered the store with an empty shopping bag, filled the bag with clothes, and then ran out of the store without paying for the merchandise. Officers searched for the suspect, but could not locate him. This investigation is continuing.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
March 26 at 9:07 a.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 100 block of W. Duarte. Officers arrived and spoke with all parties involved. No one was injured and the party at fault was issued a citation.

Grand Theft
March 26 at 3:22 p.m., an employee from a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain called police to report a theft. A male suspect went into the business and stole power tools. He fled the location in a green Toyota Camry before the employee could call police. The suspect was not located and the investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
March 26 at 9:23 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 800 block of W. Huntington. The victim reported his vehicle was broken into while he was inside a business. Officers arrived and located an additional vehicle that was burglarized. The two vehicles had the windows smashed and items taken included suitcases, backpacks, a laptop and miscellaneous personal items. Investigation continuing.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia / False Identity / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
March 27 at 9:16 a.m., a Monrovia Police Detective was traveling through the 500 block of W. Colorado when he saw a vehicle with expired registration tags. The detective stopped the vehicle and spoke with the driver. The detective saw a glass pipe that had been used to smoke methamphetamine in plain view in the vehicle. The suspect was arrested and then he provided a false name to officers during the booking process. Previous booking photographs revealed who he was and it was discovered he had a no-bail felony warrant for his arrest, which was added to his charges.

Residential Burglary In-Progress
March 27 at 10:57 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of Mill Run called police to report that two male suspects had just burglarized her neighbor's home and were fleeing the area in a black vehicle after the house alarm was activated. Officers arrived, but were unable to locate the suspect vehicle. Nothing was seen in the suspect’s hands as they ran from the house. The suspects had shattered a window to gain entry. This investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
March 27 at 11:17 p.m., a family disturbance was reported at a residence in the 200 block of W. Pomona. Officers arrived and located the subjects involved. The officers determined there was an altercation between a male and female subject. During the altercation, the male subject suffered multiple scratches and abrasions. After investigation, the female was determined to be the aggressor and was arrested for domestic violence.

In April - Especially - Monrovia Police Will Bust Drivers Using Cell Phones

April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and the Monrovia Police Department will be joining law enforcement agencies statewide stopping drivers who violate California’s hands-free cell phone law. On April 4 and April 18, Monrovia Police Department will have additional officers on patrol looking specifically for drivers on their cell phones.

Last year, Monrovia Police Department issued 168 citations to drivers texting, calling or performing other functions on their phone. Distracted driving is dangerous, especially when it involves a cell phone. According to preliminary data from the California Highway Patrol, 66 people were killed and more than 6,500 injured in 2017 from distracted driving-related crashes.

“Cell phones remain one of the top distractions for drivers,” Monrovia Police Lieutenant Daniel Verna added, “Like any bad habit, it can be hard to break, but this habit can have life-altering consequences.”

A 2018 observational survey by the California Office of Traffic Safety on driver cell phone use found about 4.5 percent of drivers are still using their cell phone illegally, a nearly 27 percent increase from 2016. “That text or phone call will never be worth losing a life over,” said Lieutenant Verna. “That is why curbing distracted driving is high on our priority list.”

Under the most recent cell phone law that went into effect in 2017, drivers are prohibited from having a phone in their hand for any reason and can only use their phone in a hands-free manner. The phones must be mounted on the dashboard, windshield or center console, and can only be touched once with the swipe or tap of a finger to activate or deactivate a function. First-time offenders face a $162 fine.

If you need to make a call or text someone, pull over and park at a safe location. Struggling to stay off the phone while driving? Put your phone in a place you can’t reach, like the backseat or trunk.

Funding for distracted driving enforcement operations are provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Source: Monrovia Police press release

- Brad Haugaard

Suspects Arrested in Connection with Fire at Magnolia/Chestnut Auto Shop

According to Pasadena Now, three suspects have been arrested in connection with the fire that occurred on Oct. 9, 2017 at the automotive customization and repair shop at 900 S. Magnolia, at the corner of Chestnut. The LA County District Attorney’s Office has filed 10 felony counts against Alan Sosa (39), Delmy Diaz (40) and Daniel Garcia (40). Charges include conspiracy to commit arson, arson of a structure, arson of property, conspiracy to commit insurance fraud, and using a device to accelerate a fire. https://goo.gl/A7AMZx

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Unified Honors 10 Volunteers for Dedication

(From left to right) bottom row: Jan Dunbar, Susanna Aguirre, Gale Maiwandi, Glen Sycip; top row: Brian Johnson, Karyn Godbold, Cissie Andrews, Carlos Vela, and Norma Galan were honored during Monrovia Unified’s Golden Apple Awards. (Not pictured: Bruce Staller).

Ten volunteers were honored for their hard work, dedication, and passion for students during Monrovia Unified School District’s Golden Apple Awards on March 25, recognizing volunteers who have shown love for the community of Monrovia and its students.
The ceremony, which began with a breakfast provided by Monrovia’s local chapter of the Association of California School Administrators, highlighted the important role that volunteers play across the district.

“Without these volunteers at Monrovia Unified School District, our students would be deprived of many of the opportunities we now offer,” Board President Ed Gililland said. “We appreciate them so much for sharing their time to make our schools better for students, teachers, and staff.”

Honorees
• Susanna Aguirre, Canyon Early Learning Center
• Glen Sycip, Bradoaks Elementary School
• Jan Dunbar, Mayflower Elementary School
• Cissie Andrews, Monroe Elementary School
• Norma Galan, Plymouth Elementary School
• Carlos Vela, Wild Rose School of Creative Arts
• Gale Maiwandi, Santa Fe Computer Science Magnet School
• Karyn Godbold, Clifton Middle School
• Brian Johnson, Monrovia High School
• Bruce Staller, Canyon Oaks and Mountain Park School


“Those generous individuals who give of themselves and volunteer in our schools are invaluable resources for our students, teachers, and staff,” Superintendent Katherine Thorossian said. “The support for education at Monrovia Unified is impressive, and we are forever grateful to have such dedicated members of our community be a part of our students’ lives.”

Source: Monrovia Schools press release

- Brad Haugaard

Mountain Recreation Area Would Overlay Part of Monrovia; Serve on a City Board; Church Kids Help Fix Properties; Game of Thrones Trivia; Etc.

In his latest report (https://goo.gl/aOqX7O) City Manager Oliver Chi reports:

~  Perhaps you remember a measure by Congress member Judy Chu, who represents the tippy-top of Monrovia, to create a recreation area in the mountains above Monrovia and also overlaying part of Monrovia. Now California Senator Kamala Harris has introduced companion legislation in the Senate. Chi writes that "the proposed measure does not seem to impact non-Federally owned land, however, it does create an additional overlay of Federal bureaucracy over the entire NRA area (including portions of Monrovia), and it mandates that within 3-years after the passage of the law, the Secretary of the Interior prepare a comprehensive Management Plan to further the goals of legislation." The matter will be on the next City Council meeting agenda.

~  If you would like to serve on a city board or commission, there will be an informational meeting on March 27 at 6 p.m. at City Hall. https://goo.gl/kTrjbn

~  This past Saturday city staff and volunteers from the San Gabriel Valley Volunteer Center partnered with about 80 middle and high school aged students to make improvements at three properties in Monrovia, 222 E. Cyprus, 336 W. Colorado, and 611 W. Lemon. The students were led by Pastor Nick Melazzo of the First Evangelical Church in Monrovia to raise funds for a non-profit called "She Has a Name," which works to rescue girls from poverty-driven child prostitution in the shanty towns of Nairobi, Kenya. https://fecyouth.com/

~  The Library has partnered with Copper Still Grill to host a monthly trivia series.  The next Trivia Night will focus on Game of Thrones on Thursday, April 4, from 6:30-8 p.m. Happy Hour begins at 6 p.m., so attendees are encouraged to arrive early. Marvel Trivia Night in May.

~  The Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills will hold its Youth of the Year Celebration to honor 2019 Mary Wilcox Youth Advocacy Award recipients, Tom and Heidi Luginbuhl, and the Youth of the Year, Mahira Mejia. Cost: $75 per person. Open bar cocktail reception, buffet dinner, and silent auction featuring artwork and home decor. https://goo.gl/PzqGxu

~  If you want to follow planned developments in Monrovia, the city has a new website just for that: http://buildingmonrovia.com/

~ There will be a second community meeting to discuss a potential sales tax measure for Monrovia. The idea is to max out the legal sales tax rate so that if and when (the city thinks "when") the county passes another sales tax it won't affect Monrovia. At the Community Center (119 West Palm Ave.) on Tuesday, March 26, from 6-7 p.m. https://goo.gl/zqwrWW

- Brad Haugaard

Disco to Benefit Mayflower Elementary

Disco, a fundraiser to benefit Mayflower Elementary School, April 27 from 6-10 p.m. Dinner, raffle and auction at Santa Anita Golf Course, 405 S. Santa Anita Ave., Arcadia. This is an adults only event. $50 for an adult or $85 for a couple. Tickets available here: https://goo.gl/1RqRvA

- Brad Haugaard

Nala - Dog Looking for Soulmate

We would like to share a message from Nala with you, "Dearest Person, I have heard myself described as having an old soul. I think that's true, although I'm just a 2-year- old pup. In all honesty, life has held some challenges, but joy is a gift I'm looking to give and receive. My name is Nala which holds the meaning, 'gift'. Could we be a gift to one another? Could you be my soulmate? I hope so very much. My person would be an intuitive human that could guide me towards finding balance. A family that could help me become more trusting and confident. I would love a chance to start a new journey filled with life's gifts; peace, love and happiness. Yours, Nala."

The adoption fee for dogs is $140. All dogs are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated before going to their new home.

New adopters will receive a complimentary health-and- wellness exam from VCA Animal Hospitals, as well as a goody bag filled with information about how to care for your pet. View photos of adoptable pets at pasadenahumane.org.

Adoption hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email.

- Brad Haugaard

How Monrovia High Students Are Getting College Credit

By Joanne Montgomery Citrus College Governing Board Member

Kayla Griffiths is a freshman at Monrovia High School. As with most freshmen across the state, Kayla enjoys spending time with friends, learning about new subjects and staying active on campus. One of the things that makes Kayla unique, however, is that she is already earning credit toward her college degree while still in high school.

How is this possible?

Kayla participates in the highly successful Early College program, a partnership between Citrus College and the Monrovia Unified School District (MUSD). Designed to provide high school students with an opportunity to enroll in transferable college courses, Early College allows eligible students to earn college credit during their zero and first periods. Participating students are taught by Citrus College faculty at their home high school. These students not only get a "taste" of college, they also get a jump on their college career. According to Kayla, "I have been college bound since elementary school and this program is helping me get ahead."

In fact, Early College has been so instrumental in advancing students, that Assemblymember Chris Holden (AD-41) spearheaded Assembly Bill 288. This legislation authorized California community college districts to enter into formal agreements with local school districts to provide dual enrollment opportunities. Since 2016, what began as a special collaboration between Citrus College and MUSD has developed into so much more.

The program has now expanded into a customized four-year dual enrollment program that allows students to earn up to 45 units of transferable credit between ninth and 12th grade. Students also receive tutoring and study period support that improves their cognitive, behavioral and emotional engagement. By the time students graduate from high school, they are mere classes away from obtaining an associate degree. This provides students with college credit at community colleges, four-year colleges and universities. High school students who take college-level courses enjoy high acceptance rates at California colleges and universities. In the end, they can graduate with their bachelor's degree almost two years early.

As you can imagine, the dual enrollment program has financially benefited scores of families. Mia Streeter, a 10th grader at Monrovia High School, put it best: "Early College will save my family a ton of money. I have learned to manage my time more wisely. It is actually easier than I thought." One of the benefits of Early College is that high school students are not charged any tuition or fees for these colleges courses.

A recent report compiled by Dr. Eric Rabitoy, dean of natural, physical and health sciences at Citrus College, and Dr. Catherine Real, director of counseling, college and careers at MUSD, found that high school students perform just as well, if not better than college-age students in many of the courses they complete.

As success stories continue to pour in, Early College at MUSD will undoubtedly expand to provide more opportunities for our younger students. The hard work conducted by Dr. Rabitoy, Dr. Real, and others at Citrus College and MUSD has set an example throughout the state, and our team frequently travels to various school districts to help guide them in establishing their own dual enrollment programs.

As Monrovia's representative on the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees, I am especially proud of the relationship that Citrus College has maintained with MUSD. Because of this long-standing partnership, Early College has allowed our students and their families to save an amount of time and money. I am confident that the new Early College pathway will continue to impact and influence the lives of our students.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia is Part of Expanding Tech Cluster

Mike Giardello, Founder and Chairman of Innovate Pasadena, says that city - plus Monrovia and other surrounding cities -  is an ever-developing tech cluster. He mentions the biotech company Xencor, a Caltech spinoff that ran out of space in Pasadena and moved to Monrovia (on Lemon, just west of Myrtle). https://goo.gl/1454ac

- Brad Haugaard

Ribbon Cutting for Douglas Elliman Real Estate

The Monrovia Chamber of Commerce will hold a ribbon cutting followed by reception for Douglas Elliman Real Estate Thursday, March 28, at 4:30 p.m. at 517 S. Myrtle.

- Brad Haugaard

Why - Despite the Rain - We're Still in a Drought

The Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District explains why we're still in a drought - its not the amount of rain, it's the water table, which is still low. https://goo.gl/m1JLwj

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Rotary Names New Scholarship After a Kiwanis Club Member

Monrovia Rotary Club has honored Kiwanis Club member Fred Bowden.  Rotary, with Monrovia Community Adult School and Bowden Development, is creating the Fred Bowden Family Vocational Scholarship. Fred Bowden, for whom the fund was named, was a supporter of both clubs and "all things Monrovia." https://goo.gl/ZNBaq5

- Brad Haugaard

School District to Consider Adding Motion Picture Appreciation Class

At its next meeting (agenda: https://goo.gl/YciuJi) the Monrovia Board of Education will consider adding a high school course called Motion Picture Appreciation, an "introductory course in which the student will learn how to analyze films on technical, aesthetic, and thematic levels. Historically significant films will be used as source material." https://goo.gl/tFEmvC

- Brad Haugaard

Discussion of Native American Pottery

Rowan Harrison of Two Tribes Pottery will discuss Native American pottery culture and techniques at the Monrovia Association of Fine Arts meeting this Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. at Paint n Play Studio, 418 S. Myrtle Ave., in Old Town (a few doors south of the Studio Movie Grill). The public is welcome. REVP to info@monroviafinearts.org. There will also be beer from Pacific Plate Brewing, and other beverages.
- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Hawaiian BBQ and Dim Sum

Dinner at Hawaiian BBQ and Dim Sum, in the Vons shopping area. Got the grilled salmon for $9.58. It came with rice, macaroni salad and veggies, under the salmon. Also got an iced tea for $2.38. Tasty.

- Brad Haugaard

National Puppy Day Celebration/Fundraiser at Wingwalker Brewing

Wingwalker Brewing (235 W. Maple) will celebrate National Puppy Day this Saturday, March 23, from noon to 3 p.m. with a dog adoption and donation event together with the San Gabriel Valley Humane Society. Puppies will be present! Needed items for the Humane Society include pet food and office supplies. Details:  https://goo.gl/KdufBW

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Driver Ticketed for Heroin, Meth; Bike Rider Steals Bike; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for Highlighted Activity for March 14-20. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 446 service events, resulting in 93 investigations.

Attempt Grand Theft Auto
March 14 at 11:16 a.m., a resident in the 800 block of S. Mayflower called to report that someone attempted to steal his vehicle. The resident discovered the steering column had damage consistent with an attempt theft. The suspects did not get the vehicle started, and rummaged through the contents of the vehicle before fleeing. Investigation continuing.

Residential Burglary
March 14 at 1:05 p.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 400 block of E. Lime. The resident had returned home and discovered his front door was closed, but no longer locked. He walked through his home and saw it had been burglarized. He called police. The investigation is ongoing.

Grand Theft Auto
March 14 at 1:30 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 1000 block of Royal Oaks. The vehicle is a 2001 Mitsubishi Galant that was parked on the street. The vehicle was taken sometime during the night. Investigation continuing.

Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
March 14 at 7:47 p.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for a vehicle code violation. During the stop, the officer saw the driver was acting suspicious and appeared to be concealing something behind his seat. A consensual search of the vehicle revealed the driver was concealing heroin, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. The driver also had a suspended license. He was arrested for the charges and taken into custody. He was later released on a citation to appear in court.

Weapon Offense – Suspect Arrested
March 14 at 11:32 p.m., a resident in the 700 block of W. Walnut called to report a suspicious person loitering behind a tree. Officers arrived and contacted the subject. While the officers were speaking with the subject, he indicated he had a fixed blade knife concealed in his pocket, ready for use if needed. The knife was confiscated and the subject was arrested for the weapon offense without incident.

Grand Theft
March 15 at 7:44 a.m., a resident in the 700 block of Crescent called to report someone had entered his unlocked vehicle during the night and took two laptop computers, gift cards, a purse, a wallet and miscellaneous credit cards. Investigation continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
March 15 at 8:53 p.m., officers responded to an injury traffic collision in the area of Foothill and Alta Vista. A motorcyclist was traveling east on Foothill, approaching Alta Vista, when a vehicle made a left turn in front of him onto Alta Vista. The motorcyclist veered to avoid a collision, causing him to fall to the ground. The Honda continued south on Alta Vista without stopping. The motorcyclist complained of pain to his right leg and wrist, but did not want to be taken to a hospital for treatment.

Violation of Court Order – Suspect Arrested
March 15 at 9:59 p.m., a resident in the 1200 block of Sherman called police to report a known female subject that was in violation of an active domestic violence restraining order. Officers arrived and located her in the backyard of the location and she was arrested for violating the court order.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 16 at 1:04 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 2000 block of S. Myrtle when he stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation. During the stop, the officer suspected the driver was under the influence of alcohol. The officer conducted field sobriety tests and determined the driver was driving under the influence. The driver was arrested and taken into custody for DUI.

Public Intoxication / Warrants – Suspect Arrested
March 16 at 2:09 a.m., a disturbing subject was reported in the 400 block of S. Shamrock. Officers arrived and located the subject. The subject was determined to be too intoxicated to care for his own safety and a computer check revealed he had outstanding warrants for his arrest. The subject was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
March 16 at 2:30 a.m., a citizen called police to report a female subject in the 1600 block of S. Myrtle that was acting bizarre. Officers responded and located the subject. She was found to be in possession of used syringes and heroin. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Felony Driving Under the Influence / Evading – Suspect Arrested
March 17 at 10:19 p.m., a caller in the area of Mountain and Huntington called police to report a possible drunk driver. Officers responded and located the vehicle and driver, who would not pull over. A brief, slow-speed pursuit was initiated, but the driver ultimately pulled over and complied. After investigation, the driver was arrested for DUI. A computer check revealed the driver had prior DUI convictions. He was booked for felony DUI and for evading.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 18 at 12:23 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation. During the stop, the officer suspected the driver was under the influence of alcohol. An investigation was conducted and the driver was arrested for DUI. He was taken into custody and held for a sobering period.

Prowling / Theft of Bicycle – Suspect Arrested
March 18 at 3:37 a.m., a resident in the 500 block of Fano called police to report a male subject that jumped the wall of her complex carrying a bicycle. She then saw him riding a bicycle while carrying another bicycle away from the property. The suspect was detained nearby by officers and admitted to stealing the bicycle he was carrying. The suspect was arrested.

Bicycle Theft
March 18 at 8:18 p.m., a bicycle was reported stolen from outside a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain. The victim had left the bike in front of the store and when he came out, his bicycle was gone. There is no suspect information at this time. Investigation continuing.

Driving Under the Influence / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
March 19 at 12:39 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 400 block of S. Ivy when he stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation. The driver showed signs of impairment and a DUI investigation was conducted. The driver was arrested and found to be in possession of a controlled substance. The subject was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Petty Theft
March 20 at 5:09 p.m., a resident in the 1200 block of S. Magnolia reported someone had stolen the catalytic converter from his parked vehicle the day before. No witnesses were located. This investigation is continuing.

Door-to-Door Scam Alert
Over the past weekend, the Monrovia Police Department received reports of two types of door-to-door scams going on in Monrovia neighborhoods. In both scams, the suspects claim to be Monrovia High School students raising money. In the first scam, the suspects claim to be students and use the names of school staff in order to convince residents to purchase magazine subscriptions. In the second scam, the suspects are claiming to be students selling gift cards to raise money for college. Please be aware that these incidents are scams and do not hesitate to contact the Monrovia Police Department to report any suspicious activity. To report a scam, call the police information line at (626)256-8000 or dial 911 if the incident is of a threatening nature or you feel unsafe.

Monrovia Robotics Teams Need Help to Get to Houston

The Kings and Queens, and the Hippie Bots, the two Monrovia robotics teams that have won a spot to compete in the World Robotics Championship Tournament in Houston on April 16-20, have been raising money to get there. So far ...

Monrovia High's Kings and Queens has raised $1,080 of a $16,000 goal, and Clifton's Hippie Bots has raised $600 of a $15,000 goal. Still a long ways from their goals.

If you'd like to help them out ...

Donate to Kings and Queens here: https://goo.gl/NAzmRE
And donate to Hippie Bots here: https://goo.gl/WGcQHM

- Brad Haugaard

Arcadia Police: Seat Belt Enforcement Week

Arcadia Police will join other county police agencies next week in enforcing child and adult safety restraint laws.

Beginning on Monday, March 25, through Saturday, March 30, Arcadia Police will be looking for violations and making enforcement stops and enforcing both child and adult safety laws.

California Highway Patrol reports more than 80% of the children under four years of age killed in traffic collisions since 1990 could have survived if they were properly buckled up.

Here are the rules:

• Children under 2 years of age shall ride in a rear-facing car seat unless the child weighs 40 or more pounds OR is 40 or more inches tall. The child shall be secured in a manner that complies with the height and weight limits specified by the manufacturer of the car seat. (California Vehicle Code Section 27360.)
• ​Children under the age of 8 must be secured in a car seat or booster seat in the back seat.
• Children who are 8 years of age or have reached 4’9” in height may be secured by a booster seat, but at a minimum must be secured by a safety belt. (California Vehicle Code Section 27363.)
• Passengers who are 16 years of age and over are subject to California's Mandatory Seat Belt law.

- Brad Haugaard

Free Counseling for Monrovia Schools Students and Staff

Monrovia Unified students, staff, and families can now use - for free - Care Solace, a live, 24/7 hotline to help people find local mental health and counseling services. The program accepts all types of insurance. https://goo.gl/U6obFP

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Schools Students and Staff Go Bald to Fight Cancer

Clifton Middle School eighth-grader Erin Byrnes raised more than $150 to fight cancer.

More than 15 Monrovia Unified School District students and nine MUSD employees got the bald look at the fourth annual Old Town Monrovia FuzzFest on March 15, when they helped raise more than $25,000 for childhood cancer research through the St. Baldrick’s Foundation.

Students from Santa Fe Computer Science Magnet School, Monrovia High School, Clifton Middle School, and Monroe and Mayflower Elementary schools raised money.

Mayflower Elementary and Monrovia High School claimed two of the top three fundraising spots, raising more than $8,000 collectively. https://goo.gl/M8iGvF

- Brad Haugaard

Complying With Storm Water Law Will *Only* Cost $140 Million; Less City Control Over Development; Etc.

In his latest report (https://goo.gl/aOqX7O) City Manager Oliver Chi reports:

~ The cost for Monrovia to comply with state law regarding the treatment of storm water has been reduced by 90 percent, from $1.4 billion "yes... BILLION," Chi writes. So - if my math is correct - that's $140 million. Chi said "the LA Regional Water Board unanimously and emphatically approved our region's Revised Enhanced Watershed Management Program plan!" There will be Measure W money available to help pay the bill. Comment: Ouch! I'll grant this is good news but even the good news is horrendous.

~ Recent State legislation prevents cities from preventing housing development projects, or imposing conditions that they be developed at a lower density if the developer seeks no variances or exceptions, "unless strict findings can be identified which indicate that a project would have a specific, adverse impact on public health or safety."

~  Assemblyman Chris Holden has named Christine Geltz as Monrovia's 2019 Woman of Distinction. She serves as President of the Monrovia Association of Fine Arts.

~  Friends of the Monrovia Public Library is sponsoring its annual Bookmark Contest, which is open to artists of all ages. Entry forms (here: https://goo.gl/b13bzM) can be turned into the Youth Reference Desk by Saturday, April 13, by 5 p.m.  Winners will be notified by April 27. Winning bookmarks will be printed and available for all in time for Summer reading.

~ Don't be surprised if you see a lot of phone company trucks around town this year. Southern California Edison will be repairing approximately 550 various pieces of equipment throughout town over the next 9 months.

- Brad Haugaard

Bowmore - Timid, But Good with a Glass of Scotch

Bowmore (A470047) is a timid 8-year-old domestic shorthair with cool black smoky coloring. When he came in to the Pasadena Humane Society as a stray in mid-December he didn’t really know what was going on. He would lay under his Kuranda bed avoiding reach with a tense body posture and tucked tail. Three months later he’s doing much better and is opening up. He isn’t the extroverted type, and may never be super confident and rambunctious. He just hasn’t let his introverted tendencies stop him from a few pets now and again. He can’t resist the Churu volunteers bring him so he’ll accept some pets in exchange for the delicious snack and if he wants more attention from them, he’ll head bump their arms and hands. It might be time for a good book, a glass of Bowmore Scotch, and some Bowmore cuddles.

The adoption fee for cats is $90. All cats are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated before being adopted.

New adopters will receive a complimentary health-and- wellness exam from VCA Animal Hospitals, as well as a goody bag filled with information about how to care for your pet.

View photos of adoptable pets at pasadenahumane.org. Adoption hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email.

- Brad Haugaard

Newcomers Group for Women

Women are invited to attend the next general meeting of the social club, Newcomers and Friends of San Gabriel Valley. On April 3 there will be a 10 a.m. "meet-and-greet" coffee in Jordan Hall at Church of the Good Shepherd, 400 West Duarte Road, in Arcadia.  Free but register here: https://goo.gl/aTDHmB

Club activities include a book club, bridge, crafting, day trips, games (Bunco, Rummikub, etc.), golf, hiking, happy hour, Lunch Bunch, Mah Jongg, movies, Pinochle, and wine tasting. For more information email sgvnewcomers@gmail.com or visit www.sgvnewcomers.com

- Brad Haugaard

Glimpse the Heavens Tonight

If you want a look through a telescope the Monrovia Old Town Sidewalk Astronomers will be at the corner of Myrtle and Lime for about two hours tonight, starting at about 7 p.m. tonight.

- Brad Haugaard

Magazine Sales People Not From Monrovia High

Monrovia Schools Superintendent Katherine Thorossian reports that the district has "been alerted to a door-to-door sales scam in our community by individuals claiming to be Monrovia High School students and using the names of school staff in order to convince families to purchase magazine subscriptions." She says they're not students and the district "does not sanction door-to-door selling by its students." https://goo.gl/hUUWMK

- Brad Haugaard

New Ladder Fire Truck for Monrovia; County Leaving GoMonrovia Program; Balanced Energy

Dark purple area will not be in GoMobnrovia service area. Just light purple.

At its next meeting (agenda: https://goo.gl/LR8etW) the Monrovia City Council will consider ...

~ Buying a KME ladder truck for the Fire Department for $1.5 million paid for using a lease-to-buy option with annual payments of $341,000 and an interest rate of 3.45%. https://goo.gl/FZCeyj

~ The GoMonrovia service area will be 31% smaller (Just a bit more than Monrovia proper now. See map) because LA County is not willing to pay the $1 million needed to service county area. Currently the County is paying $225,000 a year. https://goo.gl/hfTBZN

~ Dropping out of the County's Congestion Management Program, which the staff report says is "antiquated." https://goo.gl/Y3njKN

~ Adopting a resolution which "supports balanced energy solutions and the maintaining of local control of energy solutions." This because the State has mandated that the state rely "entirely on zero-emission energy sources for its electricity by the year 2045." The city, however, says this could cost the average family $7,200 to switch their homes to all electricity and $388 a year more in energy bills, and besides, 80% of Californians oppose prohibiting gas appliances.

- Brad Haugaard

Rain and Mosquito Breeding - Topic at Garden Club

Levy Sun, with the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control, will speak at the Monrovia Garden Club at its March 26 meeting. 6:30 p.m. in the Fireside Room of Monrovia First Presbyterian Church, at Myrtle and Foothill. Topic: How the recent rains create breeding places for mosquitoes. Bring a friend, and if you like, a snack to share.

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Baja Fresh

Lunch at Baja Fresh, on Huntington at Fifth. Got a BBQ chicken salad for $8.69 and an iced tea for $2.29. Nice, and as the name says, very fresh.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Oops! Forgot to Put the Brake On; Domestic Violence; Lots of Crimes Involving Cars; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for Highlighted Activity for March 7-13. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 414 service events, resulting in 84 investigations.

Theft / Vehicle Tampering – Suspect Arrested
March 7 at 3:38 a.m., a caller reported seeing a male subject attempting to enter his neighbor’s vehicle in the 700 block of W. Olive. Officers responded and located the suspect. The investigation revealed the suspect had stolen items from an unlocked vehicle in the area and attempted to enter another. He also provided a false name to officers. After being positively identified, he was found to be on parole. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Vehicle Burglary
March 7 at 6:12 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 2600 block of Doray Circle. The victim reported both the front and back driver-side windows were shattered on his vehicle, and the suspect ransacked the center console. It did not appear anything was taken from the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Vandalism
March 7 at 8:38 a.m., a vandalism incident was reported in the 2600 block of Doray Circle. The victim reported that the rear driver-side window of her vehicle was shattered. Officers responded and conducted an investigation, but no suspect was identified. The investigation is continuing.

Possession of a Controlled Substance / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
March 7 at 1:57 p.m., an officer was patrolling the area of Olive and Myrtle when he saw a known male subject he knew had a warrant for his arrest. The subject was riding a bicycle and tried to flee when he saw the officer. The officer followed the suspect and called for additional officer assistance. While attempting to evade the officers, the suspect crashed his bicycle and then tried to run. He was quickly taken into custody. He was also found to be in possession of a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Battery
March 7 at 5:33 p.m., a female subject reported a battery incident in the 900 block of W. Duarte. She was involved in an argument with her daughter, and her daughter pushed her and caused some scratches. Officers arrived and found the daughter had fled prior to their arrival. The investigation is ongoing.

Vehicle Burglary
March 7 at 5:52 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 700 block of Monterey. The suspect stole keys, receipts, earrings, and other miscellaneous items sometime during the previous evening. The investigation is ongoing.

Hit and Run Traffic Collision
March 7 at 7:37 p.m., a hit and run traffic collision was reported at the intersection of Peck and Live Oak. A driver was stopped at a red light at the intersection and was rear-ended by another vehicle. The suspect driver reversed the vehicle and fled the area, heading north on Peck Road. Officers arrived and checked the area for the suspect vehicle, but it was not located. The investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
March 8 at 7:16 p.m., officers responded to an injury traffic collision at Duarte and Mayflower. A vehicle was traveling north on Mayflower, when another vehicle traveling south made a left turn and collided into the driver-side rear portion of the vehicle, causing it to flip over. Both drivers complained of pain, but refused transport to the hospital.

Weapon Offense
March 8 at 7:29 p.m., a caller reported a male suspect talking to himself while holding a knife inside a business in the 100 block of W. Foothill. Officers responded and saw the suspect carrying a switchblade. The suspect was cooperative with officers. He was arrested for being in possession of a switchblade knife.

Hit and Run Traffic Collision
March 9 at 3:04 a.m., a caller reported a vehicle hit a parked car while traveling west on Chestnut. Officers checked the area and located the unoccupied suspect vehicle stopped in the middle of the street at Mayflower and Chestnut. After further investigation, officers located the suspect in her nearby apartment. The suspect admitted to the collision. A report was completed and sent to the District Attorney’s for possible filing of charges.

Grand Theft
March 9 at 10:45 a.m., a caller reported that someone stole the catalytic converter off his parked vehicle in the 800 block of W. Walnut. Officers arrived and a report was taken. The investigation is ongoing.

Domestic Violence / Robbery
March 9 at 10:54 a.m., a domestic violence/robbery incident was reported to police. The female victim advised she had just been assaulted by her ex-boyfriend while they were driving near the intersection of Lemon and Mountain. The two subjects were arguing and the victim asked the male subject to exit the vehicle. As he did, he grabbed her cell phone. She attempted to reach for her phone and he punched her in the face. The victim was taken to a hospital for treatment. The suspect is known and a wanted person warrant was issued for his arrest.

Domestic Violence
March 9 at 10:58 a.m., an officer responded to a domestic violence report in the 200 block of Terrace View. The victim was involved in an argument with her boyfriend, who lives with her. He became angry and began hitting and slapping her, causing her to hit her head on the marble seating in the shower. He then began kicking her and drug her down the stairs. He then left the location prior to police arriving. The victim sustained multiple cuts and bruises, and was taken to a hospital for treatment. The suspect is known and a wanted person warrant was issued for his arrest.

Grand Theft of Catalytic Converters
On March 9, police received three separate calls reporting the thefts of a catalytic converters. The thefts occurred in the 500 block of Parkrose, the 1100 block of Teresita Circle, and the 1800 block of S. Alta Vista. The investigations are ongoing.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
March 9 at 10:06 p.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop on a bicyclist for a vehicle code violation near the intersection of Mayflower and Evergreen. The subject was found to be on probation and had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
March 9 at 10:13 p.m., police dispatch received a call reporting that a vehicle had collided into a building in the 1100 block of S. Fifth. Officers arrived and found a delivery driver had forgotten to place his vehicle into park when getting out for a delivery. The vehicle then rolled into the building, causing minimal damage. A report was taken.

Injury Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence
March 10 at 3:03 a.m., a driver was traveling in the 800 block of Magnolia when he collided into multiple parked cars. Officers arrived and found the vehicle had rolled over onto its side. The driver appeared to be intoxicated. He complained of pain to his neck and chest, and was taken to a hospital for treatment. A report was completed and sent to the District Attorney’s office for possible filing of DUI charges.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 10 at 3:10 a.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for a vehicle code violation near the intersection of Duarte and Enterprise Way. During the traffic stop, the officer suspected the driver of the vehicle was intoxicated. After field sobriety tests were conducted, the driver was arrested for DUI.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 10 at 4:04 a.m., a caller reported a driver passed out inside a vehicle that was still running in the 500 block of S. Myrtle. Officers arrived and saw the vehicle on the curb. Further investigation revealed the driver was intoxicated. The driver was arrested for DUI.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 10 at 4:44 a.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for a vehicle code violation near the intersection of Duarte and Myrtle. The driver appeared intoxicated and field sobriety tests were conducted. The driver was arrested for driving under the influence.

Wanted Person – Suspect Arrested
March 10 at 5:45 p.m., officers arrived at a residence in the 600 block of Vaquero to assist a domestic violence victim in retrieving her property. The male suspect was at the location and was contacted by officers outside the home. He was arrested for domestic violence and taken into custody.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
March 11 at 10:11 p.m., officers responded to the 800 block of W. Duarte regarding a family disturbance. An investigation revealed a couple had been arguing and the alteration became physical. One of the male subjects suffered an injury as a result. The other was determined to be the aggressor and was arrested for domestic violence.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 12 at 3:35 a.m., a caller reported a vehicle was driving with only three tires near the intersection of Mountain and Central. Officers responded to the area and conducted a traffic stop. The driver showed signs of intoxication. After field sobriety tests were conducted, she was arrested for DUI.

Injury Traffic Collision
March 12 at 7:48 p.m., a vehicle traveling near the intersection of Duarte and Magnolia turned left directly into another vehicle. Officers arrived and conducted an investigation. One driver complained of pain, but refused medical treatment. The driver of the first vehicle was issued a citation for failing to yield the right of way.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
March 12 at 9:45 p.m., a female caller reported she had been assaulted by her boyfriend in the 300 block of S. Lincoln. Officers arrived and conducted an investigation that revealed the female caller was the aggressor. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Theft
March 13 at 1:15 p.m., a female customer of a grocery store in the 100 block of W. Huntington reported that someone had stolen her wallet from her shopping cart while inside the store. Her wallet was inside her open purse in the shopping cart. She believes someone took the wallet out of her purse when she wasn't looking. The investigation is ongoing.

Injury Traffic Collision
March 13 at 2:20 p.m., a traffic collision was reported at the intersection of Magnolia and Central. Officers responded and conducted an investigation. One of the drivers was transported to a nearby hospital to be checked out. The other driver was not injured.

Monrovia Today Magazine Online

You should have received a paper copy of the Monrovia Today magazine, but if you'd like to flip through it online, here it is: https://goo.gl/WdsFkn

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Robotics Teams Need Money - Lots! - To Get To Championship Games

The Hippie Bots

The Kings and Queens

To donate to Kings and Queens: https://goo.gl/NAzmRE
To donate to Hippie Bots: https://goo.gl/WGcQHM

Monrovia High School's "Kings And Queens" robotics team and Clifton Middle School's "Hippie Bots" are two of seven SoCal Region teams to earn spots in the FIRST Tech Challenge World Championship to be held in Houston April 17-20.

On Saturday March 10th two student robotics teams from Monrovia schools emerged as the victors of the SoCal Region FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Regional Robotics Championship held at Monrovia High School. The competition featured the top 48 teams from the SoCal region, which stretches from Santa Barbara to the San Diego County border. Those teams were competing for 7 coveted advancement slots to move on to the FTC World Championship to be held in Houston, TX on April 17-20. After a grueling day of competition an alliance made up of Kings and Queens, Hippie Bots, and team Brain Stormz of Camarillo overcame mechanical failures and fatigue to not only win the event, but also put up two of the top 10 match scores in the state for this season. Out of over 7,000 FTC teams around the world, only 320 qualify to compete in the World Championship, and only 148 advance from performance on the competition field.

Each FIRST Tech Challenge student team designs and builds their own robot each season from aluminum shapes, metal and plastic sheet, and customized machined metal and 3D-printed parts. Robots compete in teams of two in "alliances" against other pairs on a 12 by 12 foot field to see which alliance can complete the most game tasks in a 2-1/2 minute period. Before the start of the match the robots have to fit into an 18x18x18 cube, but can unfold and expand to any size once the match begins. This year's game "Rover Ruckus" has a space theme where robots act as though they are exploring a distant planet and navigating obstacles to gather mineral samples and claim territory by dropping a team flag in a designated spot. In matches the robots are required to detach from hanging above the field surface on a raised hook on a simulated planetary lander, identify objects on the field by color, and navigate accurately around the field to park in a simulated "crater." Then the robots collect plastic cubes and ball "minerals" from inside the crater, separate them, and deposit them into storage hoppers in the lander 30 inches off the floor. Finally the robot has to reattach to the hook on the lander and raise itself back above the surface to prepare to return to Earth. All this while coordinating with a partner robot and while sharing the field with an opposing team of robots intent on accomplishing the same tasks.

Though each FTC team designs their robots to accomplish the same objectives, the robot they design and the team's choice of name and identity are distinctly different. The Monrovia teams are no exception. The Kings and Queens are true to their name and compete resplendent in purple and black renaissance costumes with gold crowns for the boys and eyecatching purple and gold dresses and gold tiaras for the girls. Their robot, named "Sir Gawain" is striking for his regal purple and gold livery and for his elegant design. The Hippie Bots sport a red-white-and-blue tie dye look harking back to the 1960's. Their robot, named "Bot Marley," is a purposeful square design that is all business. Both robots are strong performers. This marks the fourth year that Monrovia High School's nine-year-old FTC robotics program has sent a team to the World Champions. This is the first time Clifton Middle School has advanced a team. The success of the Kings And Queens and Hippie Bots caps a strong year for the robotics programs of the Monrovia School District which fields ten FTC teams, six at Monrovia High and two each at Clifton and Santa Fe Middle Schools. Of the ten Monrovia teams, five qualified as one of the 48 teams that advanced to the Regional Championship. The Kings and Queens and the Hippie Bots are actively seeking tax-deductible donations and company sponsorships to help cover the approximate $17,000 cost each of taking the teams to Houston in April. Donations may be made through their GoFundMe pages at https://www.gofundme.com/kings-and-queens-to-worlds-2019 or https://www.gofundme.com/hippiebots2019

For more information please contact Thomas Dobson, Monrovia High School Physics Teacher, MHS Robotics coordinator (FIRST Tech Challenge), tdobson@monroviaschools.net, 471-2800 Ext: 7243. Or contact Paul Flores, Clifton Middle School History Teacher, Hippie Bots Coach, pflores@monroviaschools.net, 471-2600 Ext: 4621.

- Brad Haugaard

Intro to Kindergarten Meeting Monday

There will be a meeting to introduce parents to the various kindergarten programs Monrovia Schools offers. It'll be Monday, March 18, at 6 p.m at the Monrovia Unified District Office, 325 E. Huntington Dr. https://goo.gl/q1CVNs

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Robotics Teams Advance to World Championship Competition

Two robotics teams from Monrovia High School and Clifton Middle School are advancing to the FIRST Tech Challenge  World Championships in Houston, Texas. https://goo.gl/WNMfQh

- Brad Haugaard

Friends of Library Book Sale This Weekend

This Friday, May 17, through Sunday, May 19, the Friends of the Monrovia Public Library will hold its Spring Book Sale at the Library. Hundreds of books for all ages for sale at rock-bottom prices. Friday noon to 5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., and from 4-5 p.m. for the $5-a-Bag sale. https://goo.gl/orgVCA


- Brad Haugaard

Students Go Bald to Support Cancer Victims

Twelve students from Monrovia Unified elementary, middle and high schools - and nine district employees - will shave their heads at the fourth annual Old Town Monrovia FuzzFest (Friday, March 15, 5 to 9 p.m. at the Old Town Street Fest), in partnership with the St. Baldrick’s Foundation. Shaving shows support for children who lose their hair during cancer treatment. Fundraising teams from Mayflower Elementary, Clifton Middle School, and Monrovia High School are currently the top three fundraising teams for the event. https://goo.gl/QhYMzD

- Brad Haugaard

Meeting on Four Big Projects Planned for City; Sales Tax Meeting; TWO Burgerim's; Etc.

In his latest report (https://goo.gl/aOqX7O) City Manager Oliver Chi reports:

~ A joint City Council / Planning Commission meeting will be held Wednesday, March 20, at 6 p.m. will consider four major projects planned for Monrovia ...

• Trammell Crow Residential - The Alexan Specific Plan - A 436-unit project proposed to be built at 1625  S. Magnolia Ave.
• Fifield Realty Corporation - West Pomona Transit District - A 310-unit project proposed to be built at 123  W. Pomona Ave.
• MW Investment Group - Arroyo at Monrovia Station - A 284-unit proposed project to be built on the City block by South Magnolia to the west, South Primrose to the east, West Evergreen to the north, and West Pomona to the south.
• City Park-and-Ride Lot - A ~130 key Cambria hotel project located on the City's park-and-ride lot at the southwest corner of Myrtle Avenue / Pomona Avenue.

~ There will be a second community meeting to discuss a possible sales tax at the Community Center on Tuesday, March 26, from 6-7 p.m. Chi writes: "We want to hear from the community to see if a local tax measure could be a viable solution for Monrovia as we search for ways to protect our local sales tax capacity from other governmental jurisdictions, including LA County."

~ Two high-end Burgerim restaurants may open in Monrovia. Chi reports that "a franchise operator recently leased the former Sprint store in Old Town located just north of Studio Movie Grill to open a Burgerim." A Burgerim is already planned for 1108  S. Fifth Ave. at the Areum Apartments. https://www.burgerim.com/

~ Monrovia Neighborhood Services Program Coordinator, Ariel Tolefree-Williams, was selected as one of Assembly District 48's 2019 Woman of the Year recipients.

~ If you don't want to use a cell phone app to get a Lyft ride, you can book a GoMonrovia Lyft ride by calling in to the dispatch center. BUT, if you do that you have to pre-register. Chi said this will cut back on underage riders and simplify billing. If you use the app, no change. Here's the registration form: https://goo.gl/PqmYnf

~ The Monrovia Public Library is celebrating Women's History Month with activities and a wall of trivia in the Youth Services Area. Also Wonder Woman display in the lobby.

~ Telecommunication veterans Steve Berkson and Roger Anderson founded the Monrovia business, Jolly Roger Telephone Company, which patches callers through to a robot that wastes their time with absurd conversation: "Did you wash my leggings?" They appeared on Shark Tank. No deal but a lot of exposure.

~  Librarian Mabel Cross and Veterans Resource Center volunteer Joe Callahan were interviewed by CBSLA and told about all the resources the center has for veterans and their families. Video here: https://goo.gl/4jmg57

~ Community Media of the Foothills has a new Executive Director, David Palomares.

~ To raise awareness of suicide prevention, Healing Connections will host "Choose 2 Live" on Saturday, March 16, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Library Park. For more information call (323) 282-9892.

~ The city is accepting nominations for the 2019 Older American of the Year Award hosted by LA County Commission for Older Adults. Candidate must be a Monrovian 60 or older, working or retired, and still active in a volunteer service in Monrovia.  The award is to honor and encourage older individuals to remain active in our community. Nomination form: https://goo.gl/rD7uqg

~  Mt Sierra College and the Monrovia Association of Fine Arts will host a free art show March 15-16.  View the works of students and local artists and meet with them. March 15 from 6-9 p.m. and March 16 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Mt Sierra Campus (800 Royal Oaks Drive, Suite 101).

~  Assemblymember Chris Holden wants to highlight a small business. If you know of one that deserves to be recognized, use this nomination form: https://goo.gl/8WxHKb. Nominations are due by Thursday, March 14.

- Brad Haugaard

Shadow: A Very Large - and Adoptable - Lapdog

Shadow (A471931) is a 3-year-old German Shepherd who doesn’t really know his size and he’ll try to cram his whole fluffy body onto your lap to snuggle. He is an affectionate, mellow dog with a great temperament, looking for a home. He knows his “sit” and “down” commands and volunteers are starting to teach him to “shake.” He hasn’t quite gotten the hang of it yet but we know he’ll get there. He has gone out with our Wiggle Waggle Waggin’ team the last two weekends and has gotten along with other dogs, especially Beauty (A470898). He might have a thing for her. He doesn’t mind when strangers come over and pet him, even kids, and when he gets to know you, he’ll want to give your face a few licks. Just so you know he loves you. Come meet Shadow at the Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA.

The adoption fee for dogs is $140. All dogs are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated before going to their new home.

New adopters will receive a complimentary health-and-wellness exam from VCA Animal Hospitals, as well as a goody bag filled with information about how to care for your pet.

View photos of adoptable pets at pasadenahumane.org. Adoption hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Gets Another Brewery

Monrovia is getting yet another brewery. Over Town Brewing at 227 W. Maple Ave. - just east of Magnolia and two blocks north of Huntington - is holding its grand opening this Friday and Saturday, March 15 and 16. The brewery promises 13 beers on tap and food trucks. Over Town is open from 4-10 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, Friday and Saturday from noon-11 p.m. Closed Monday and Sunday. https://goo.gl/b9Jizi

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia PD to Conduct Drunk Driving and License Checks This Saturday

Monrovia Police Department will be conducting a DUI / CDL (drunk driving and driver's license) checkpoint on Saturday night, March 16. Vehicles entering the checkpoint will be stopped. Drivers will then be evaluated for being under the influence of alcohol and checked for having a valid driver's license.

Over the course of the past three years, there have been 123 DUI collisions, with 32 of those collisions resulting in injuries, harming our citizens and neighbors of Monrovia.

In California, this deadly crime led to countless deaths because someone failed to designate a sober driver. Alcohol and drug-impaired deaths still make up the largest category of overall vehicle fatalities, with 29% of all deaths being caused by a drunk driver.

Monrovia Police Department offers these reminders to ensure you have a safe night of fun without a DUI:

• Always use a designated driver - a friend who is not drinking, ride-share, cab or public transportation.
• See someone who is clearly impaired try and drive? Take their keys and help them make other arrangements to find a sober way home.
• Report drunk drivers - Call 911.
• Hosting a party? Offer non-alcoholic drinks. Monitor those who are drinking and how they are getting home.

Getting home safely is cheap, but getting a DUI is not. Drivers caught driving impaired and charged with DUI can expect the impact of a DUI arrest to be upwards of $13,500. This includes fines, fees, DUI classes, license suspension, and other expenses, not to mention possible jail time.

Funding for this checkpoint is provided to the Monrovia Police Department by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Source: Monrovia Police press release

- Brad Haugaard

Identity of Man Arrested in Connection With Arson Fires

According to the LA Times, the person arrested in connection with recent arson fires is a 25-year-old Monrovia man named Ryan Dhalliwal. https://goo.gl/ugG8Y3

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Pharmacy Closes

Monrovia Pharmacy, just east of Magnolia on Foothill, has closed.

Janice Chen, representing the company, writes on Facebook:

"Dear Monrovians, Monrovia Pharmacy is closed as of today after 1 and 1/2 years of service. It was a pleasure to serve this town but the business isn't growing as much as I was hoping for.

"Thank you for those who come through the doors first as my customers and later became lifelong friends. We will still keep in touch even after the business is closed."

- Brad Haugaard

Price of Monrovia School Lunches May Go Up 25 Cents

At its next meeting (https://goo.gl/tKMjdW) the Monrovia Board of Education will consider ...

~ A twenty-five cent increase for the paid breakfast and lunch rate for the 2019-2020 and 2021-2022 school years.

~  Affirming - as required by law - that the Monrovia Unified School District will be able to meet its financial obligations for the 2018-19 fiscal year and the subsequent two fiscal years.

~ Honoring its Employees of the Month for March, including: Markiena Madison, Teacher at Bradoaks; Jesus Jara, Campus Assistant at Bradoaks; Janette Bacus, Teacher at Clifton Middle School; and Jose Simuta, School Office Manager at Clifton.

~ Commending district employee and US Army Major, Ken Singleton, Logistics Officer, who has been called to active duty and must report to Kuwait later this month.

- Brad Haugaard

St. Luke's Presents 12th Women's Evensong Invitational

St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Monrovia will present its 12th   Annual Women's Evensong Invitational on Sunday, March 17, at 4 p.m. at the church, 122  S. California Ave. at Foothill Boulevard in Monrovia.

The free public performance will spotlight the women's voices of the choir along with many invited guest singers. Music will include Gabriel Fauré's Ave Verum, Denis Mason's Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis, and the Monrovia Preces and Responses, written for this group by Kent Bennett Jones.

The Rev. Neil Tadken, Rector, will officiate. Mezzo-soprano Trisha Rivera will be Cantor.  A freewill offering will be taken. Guests are invited to a wine and cheese reception in Guild Hall following the performance.

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Mooncat Ramen

Lunch at Mooncat Ranen, not to be confused with Mooncat Sushi next door. It’s a cozy little place on the south side of Lime just east of Myrtle. Got the Curry Ramen for $11 and an almond milk-tea for $4. Very nice.

- Brad Haugaard

Wildcat Theatre to Perform 'In the Heights'

Monrovia High School's Wildcat Theatre will put on the play, In the Heights, on March 22,23 and 29,30. The play "tells the universal story of a vibrant community in New Yorks Washington Heights neighborhood  a place where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music. Its a community on the brink of change, full of hopes, dreams and pressures, where the biggest struggles can be deciding which traditions you take with you, and which ones you leave behind." Tickets here:
https://goo.gl/2PcdZw

- Brad Haugaard

Historic Homes Tour Will Have Six 'First Houses'

The Monrovia Historic Preservation Group will hold its 37th Historic Homes Tour on Sunday, May 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The tour will include six of Monrovia's "First Houses" (those built before the end of 1887).

Ticket sales will begin the end of March (not yet!) at the group's online store (using PayPal or a credit card or you can download an order form to pay by check), or at the Monrovia Chamber of Commerce (620 S. Myrtle Ave), Dollmakers' Kattywompus (412 S. Myrtle Ave) or Foothill Gym (202 S. Myrtle Ave).  https://goo.gl/I9gLrc

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Two Arson Fires - Little Library Set Afire; She's Drunk, He's Violent; Man Runs Off With Visitor's Luggage; Man Whacks Suspects With Cane

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for Highlighted Activity for February 28 – March 6. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 437 service events, resulting in 84 investigations.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
February 28 at 1:05 p.m., a shoplifting incident was reported at a business in the 3300 block of S. Peck Road. Loss prevention was reviewing security cameras when they saw a subject tossing merchandise over a fence and into the county park area. They detained the suspect and an associate at the exit. Both were cooperative. The merchandise was recovered and returned. The suspect was arrested and issued a citation to appear in court on the shoplifting charges.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia/Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
February 28 at 11:04 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 1100 block of E. Huntington and conducted a traffic stop on a bicyclist for a vehicle code violation. During the stop, it was discovered the bicyclist was in possession of drug paraphernalia and narcotics. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Shots Heard
February 29 at 2:24 a.m., police dispatch received three separate calls reporting approximately 4 gunshots in a rear alley in the 300 block of California. Officers responded and conducted an area check, but did not find any evidence of gun shots. The reporting parties were contacted; however, they did not see anything, but only heard shots. Officers continued to stay in the area, but nothing was located. The day watch shift conducted an additional search during daylight hours, but again, nothing was located.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered – Suspects Arrested
March 1 at 7:52 p.m., Special Enforcement Team officers located a stolen motorcycle with a punched ignition at a motel in the 900 block of E. Huntington. Further investigation revealed the suspect was staying at the motel along with two other subjects who had warrants for their arrest. Additional officers responded to assist and all three subjects were arrested.

Battery/Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
March 2 at 12:17 a.m., a caller reported a physical altercation in the 700 block of S. Magnolia with a female screaming. Officers responded and learned that a boyfriend and girlfriend were sitting in their vehicle arguing. The female was intoxicated. A man walking past the vehicle tried to intervene because he thought the female needed help. The boyfriend exited the vehicle and became involved in a physical altercation with the man who tried to intervene. The boyfriend was arrested on a private person's arrest for battery and the girlfriend was arrested for public intoxication.

Driving Under the Influence/Warrant – Suspect Arrested
March 2 at 2:22 a.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop for a vehicle code violation at Central and Myrtle. During the traffic stop, the driver was determined to be intoxicated and one of the passengers was found to have a warrant for his arrest. After further investigation and field sobriety tests being conducted, the driver was arrested for DUI and a passenger was arrested for a warrant.

Commercial Burglary
March 2 at 3:02 a.m., an alarm activation call was received for a business in the 900 block of S. Alta Vista. Officers arrived shortly after and discovered that forced entry had been made to the front door. A perimeter was set up and an interior search was conducted; however, the suspects had already fled the scene. One of the employees responded and indicated the suspects had ripped the alarm panels off the wall. It was unclear if anything was taken at the time. The business contains jewelry, however, all of the jewelry was secured. The investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting/Parole Violation – Suspect Arrested
March 2 at 4:36 p.m., loss prevention at a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington called to report a shoplifting incident in progress. Officers responded and waited for the suspect to exit the store, where they detained him. Store loss prevention made a private person's arrest of the suspect. The suspect was arrested and found to currently be on parole and was in violation on his parole. He was transported to the city jail.

Possession of Burglary Tools/Warrant – Suspect Arrested
March 2 at 8:04 p.m., officers observed two male subjects acting suspicious to police presence in the south alley of 100 W. Chestnut. As they approached the subjects, they saw they were wearing dark hoodies and had masks covering their faces. The subjects were detained. One subject had a warrant for theft and was also found to be in possession of burglary tools. The second subject was arrested for possession of methamphetamine. Both suspects were arrested and later released with citations to appear in court on the charges.

Theft of Luggage
March 3 at 9:40 a.m., a theft of luggage was reported at a hotel in the 900 block of W. Huntington. The victim set his luggage out in front of the hotel and went inside. When he came back, he saw a male Hispanic subject in his 50's running away with his luggage. He lost sight of the suspect and called the police. The luggage contained his passports and other personal property. An area search was completed, but the suspect was not located.

Commercial Burglary
March 3 at 8:03 p.m., police dispatch received a burglary alarm activation at a commercial building in the 400 block of W. Maple that had been burglarized multiple times. Officers quickly responded and saw a boarded-up window had been forced open. An El Monte Police Department canine unit responded to the location to assist in searching the building. The interior was searched, but the suspect was not located. The owner responded and reviewed surveillance video of the break-in. It appears to be the same suspect from the previous burglaries and an unknown amount of cash was taken from the tip jar. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
March 3 at 11:35 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 800 block of S. Myrtle. The victim reported that someone had broken into his work vehicle. The victim saw a male and a female Hispanic inside his vehicle. The victim confronted the male suspect and began hitting him with his cane. Both suspects fled in a silver, Volkswagen hatchback. The victim did not find anything missing at the time. The investigation is continuing.

Hit and Run Traffic Collision/Driving Under the Influence
March 5 at 1:23 a.m., officers responded to a traffic collision at the intersection of Shamrock and Valley View. A motorist was traveling north on Shamrock and collided into a parked vehicle near the intersection. The impact was so severe it disabled both vehicles. The driver fled the scene on foot, but was quickly detained nearby. The driver was possibly under the influence of drugs, but due to his injuries, he was taken to a hospital for immediate medical aid. Charges are pending and the investigation is continuing.

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
March 5 at 1:13 p.m., police received a call reporting a female subject trespassing at a vacant residence in the 400 block of E. Maple. An officer responded and found a female subject sleeping inside the residence covered up with a blanket. An officer made contact with the subject and she said she entered the location through an unlocked door. The officer searched the location and found no signs of forced entry. The subject was arrested for trespassing; she was booked and later released on a citation.

Arson
March 5 at 11:49 p.m., Monrovia Fire and Rescue requested officers respond regarding a suspicious fire in the 900 block of Monterey. Officers arrived and found a bush had been set on fire. They were also told by fire personnel that an earlier fire had occurred in front of the Unity Center on Chestnut. The self-serve library box had been set on fire about an hour earlier. An unknown suspect filled the book box with sticks and debris, and then lit the box on fire. The investigation is continuing.

Structure Fire
March 6 at 12:35 a.m., police dispatch received numerous calls reporting a structure fire at a residence in the 700 block of W. Colorado. Officers arrived and found the location on fire, and the fire had spread to an adjacent home. Multiple agencies responded to assist Monrovia Fire and Rescue with firefighting efforts, including Pasadena and Arcadia Fire Departments. Arcadia and Sierra Madre Police Departments also assisted with evacuations and traffic control. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Theft of Mail
March 6 at 3:56 a.m., dispatch received a call reporting two subjects stealing mail from a location in the 200 Block E. Foothill. They fled west on Foothill in a blue vehicle. Officers arrived and confirmed a theft had occurred. An area search was conducted, but officers were not able to locate the suspects. Investigation to continue.

Theft of Wallet From Shopping Cart
March 6 at 10:45 a.m., a female customer of a grocery store in the 600 block of W. Huntington reported someone had taken her wallet and credit cards from her shopping cart while she was shopping inside the store. She discovered her wallet had been stolen when she went to checkout at the registers and pay. This investigation is continuing.

Theft of Purse From Shopping Cart
March 6 at 11:33 a.m., a theft of a purse at a grocery store in the 600 block of W. Huntington was reported to police. The female victim reported that someone had stolen her purse and credit cards from her shopping cart while she was shopping the day before on March 5. This investigation is continuing.

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
March 6 at 11:42 a.m., the owner of an unoccupied rental home in the 400 block of E. Maple called police to report a subject that had gained entry into the home somehow and was using it as their temporary residence. Officers arrived and found no-trespassing signs posted around the home. The subject inside was detained, and after an investigation, was arrested for trespassing.

Traffic Collision – Citation Issued
March 6 at 1:30 p.m., a caller reported two motorists had just collided into one another in the 900 block of W. Huntington. Officers responded and found no one was injured. After an investigation was conducted, the party at fault was issued a citation.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
March 6 at 7:31 p.m., officers were dispatched to the area of Myrtle and Alta Vista regarding a male subject that appeared extremely intoxicated. They arrived and found the subject, who displayed obvious signs of intoxication. The subject was too intoxicated to care for himself and was arrested for being drunk in public. He was held for a sobering period.

Arson
March 7 at 12:03 a.m., dispatch received numerous calls reporting a structure fire at a residence in the 800 block of W. Walnut. The residence was occupied by one male adult, who escaped injury. The Monrovia Fire Department arrived and put out the fire. The Police and Fire Departments are investigating the cause of the fire. Monrovia Police Detectives were called in to assist with the investigation. The investigation is ongoing.