Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 526, Up 7; One More Case at Trader Joe's

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 07/30 . Changes since 07/29 .

City of Monrovia: 526 cases (up 7), 34 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 67 cases (up 1), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 3 cases (unchanged), no deaths
Trader Joe's Monrovia Store 6 cases (up 1), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Living With Bears Webinar; Tongva Talk


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

~ On Thursday, August 6, at 11 a.m., the California Department of Fish & Wildlife will present a Living with Bears webinar for Monrovia. Safety tips on how to coexist with bears, how they respond to calls, and more. To join in on the webinar, please register here: https://is.gd/RpASyN. If you are unable to attend but have question, send it to pio@ci.monrovia.ca.us. A recording of the webinar will be available.

~ Learn in this video talk how the indigenous people of the LA area, the Tongva, lived here many years ago: https://is.gd/zKacS1

- Brad Haugaard

Trader Joe's NOT Changing Labels On Its Ethnic Foods

According to a report on ABC7, Monrovia-based Trader Joe's is now saying that it does NOT intend to change the labels on its ethnic foods - such as Trader Ming and Trader Jose - based on a petition that said the names were racist, an accusation it denies. Earlier it had appeared the company did intend to change those brand names. https://is.gd/VX3gtJ

- Brad Haugaard

City Manager, Department Heads to Take Pay Cut; 20 Positions Being Left Open; Increased Trash Fees; Etc.

At its next meeting (agenda: https://is.gd/Q8LvTr) the Monrovia City Council will consider ...

~ Adjustments to its budget, especially in light of the Covid virus. A few highlights:

- The city manager and department directors will take a voluntary pay cut through the end of the
fiscal year.

- 20 non-critical positions are being kept vacant.

- Many contracts were reviewed and renegotiated for price reductions.

- There have been some savings from facility closures.

- Non-essential overtime was eliminated.

Lots and lots of financial data here for the money-minded: https://is.gd/B099aU

~ Giving Athens Services a5.66 percent raise for picking up trash. For two reasons: 1) Because California law now requires recycling organic waste, which is more costly, and 2) as an adjustment to the Consumer Price Index (i.e. - inflation). Here's how much of an increase you can expect:

Typical Residential: $ 1.88 / month
Typical Multi-Family: $10.72 / month
Typical Commercial: $10.91 / month


~ Pulling out of the Foothill Workforce Development Board (an organization made up of various local cities) that provides job assistance with federal money. However, "the City of Monrovia believes that our community, as well as those of Duarte and Arcadia, have been underserved by FWDB." https://is.gd/phHE1S

~ Temporarily hiring back retiring Neighborhood and Business Services Division Manager Sheila Spicer-Batice - who has been with the city for 38 years - at lower pay. https://is.gd/RmRTwy

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 519 Cases, Up 4; 34 Deaths, Up 1

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 07/29 . Changes since 07/28 .

City of Monrovia: 519 cases (up 4), 34 deaths up 1
Unincorporated Monrovia: 66 cases (up 2), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 3 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner from Sena

Got dinner from Sena, on the West side of Myrtle just south of Lime. I got the short rib tacos for $12 and a side of beans for $2. Very satisfying! And I love the salsa. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Fire in Mountains Above Monrovia


It appears there is a forest fire above East Monrovia/Duarte. ABC7 reports it began along the road up Azusa Canyon. 
 
-Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Suspect Escapes into Flood Control Area; Big Vitamin Heist; Thief Switches License Plates; Catalytic Converter Stolen; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 23-29. - Brad Haugaard]


During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 339 service events, resulting in 64 investigations. 

Theft
July 23 at 9:38 a.m., an employee of a business in the 2600 block of California called to report that items were taken from his vehicle while it was parked at the location. The vehicle was left unlocked. Investigation continuing. 

Grand Theft
July 23 at 10:14 a.m., a resident in the 800 block of W. Duarte called police to report that someone stole a large amount of cash from his dresser drawer. He shares the apartment with five other people. Investigation continuing. 

Grand Theft
July 23 at 12:16 p.m., an employee from a business in the 1300 block of S. Mayflower called police to report a theft. She parked her vehicle in the business parking lot, and when she came out later to start her vehicle, she noticed a loud sound. She discovered the catalytic converter had been stolen off her vehicle. Investigation continuing. 

Bicycle Theft
July 23 at 2:41 p.m., a resident in the 100 block of W. Central called police to report her Schwinn beach cruiser had been stolen from her patio. Investigation continuing. 

Suspicious Vehicle / Pursuit
July 24 at 3:01 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 300 block of S. Mountain when he saw a suspicious U-Haul vehicle commit a traffic violation. He attempted to stop the vehicle for the violation and a pursuit ensued. The pursuit continued into Irwindale, where the suspect vehicle deliberately drove into a flood control channel. A witness saw the suspect flee from the vehicle before officers could approach. Outside agencies responded to assist in the search, but the suspect was not located. The vehicle was stored for being used in a crime. Investigation continuing. 

Stolen Vehicle Recovered
July 24 at 3:36 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 700 block of W. Huntington when he discovered a stolen vehicle parked in the parking lot. The vehicle was unoccupied and it was recovered. The registered owner could not be reached. The vehicle was stored and removed from the system as stolen. 

Grand Theft
July 24 at 2:24 p.m., an employee from a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington called police to report that three suspects, two female and one male, entered the store and stole a large amount of vitamins. The suspects had fled prior to police arriving. Investigation continuing. 

Public Intoxication
July 24 at 10:33 p.m., an intoxicated person was reported in the 400 block of S. Myrtle. Officers arrived and located the subject to check on his welfare. He was found to be too intoxicated to care for his own safety or the safety of others. He was arrested and held for a sobering period. 

Theft / Recovered License Plate
July 25 at 10:52 a.m., a resident in the 1900 block of S. Peck called to report the license plate on the back of his vehicle did not belong to his vehicle. An officer responded and ran the license plate. It returned to a stolen vehicle reported earlier in the week. The officer recovered the stolen plate and took a report for the resident’s missing license plate. The investigation is continuing. 

Vehicle Burglary
July 25 at 1:18 p.m., a resident in the 800 block of W. Duarte called police to report someone had broken into her locked vehicle and took cash from her center console. There was no sign of forced entry. Investigation continuing. 

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
July 25 at 1:53 p.m., police dispatch received a call reporting a male subject sitting in his van in the 100 block of W. Foothill, yelling at people as they passed. Officers arrived and spoke with the subject. He said he was going to leave the area and the officers left the location. Another call was received a short time later reporting the same subject causing a disturbance. Officers arrived and a computer check revealed the subject had three outstanding warrants for his arrest. He was arrested for the warrants and taken into custody. 

Grand Theft
July 25 at 3:41 p.m., an employee from a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington called police to report an adult female had entered the store, selected several items of merchandise and concealed them in her purse. She then exited the store without paying for the concealed items and the alarm sounded. She ran quickly to her vehicle and fled the area. Investigation continuing. 

Vandalism
July 26 at 6:54 p.m., an officer was patrolling the 1600 block of S. Myrtle when he saw a building had been vandalized with green spray paint. A report was taken and graffiti removal was notified. 

Driving Under the Influence / Traffic Collision – Driver Arrested
July 27 at 1:17 a.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 900 block of W. Colorado. Officers responded and located the vehicle and the driver. The driver showed symptoms of being under the influence of alcohol. A DUI investigation was conducted and the driver was arrested for DUI. He was taken into custody and held for a sobering period. 

Stolen Vehicle Recovered
July 27 at 5:31 a.m., police dispatched received a call reporting an abandoned vehicle in the 100 block of E. Evergreen. An officer was dispatched and a computer check determined the vehicle was reported stolen to the Los Angeles Police Department. the vehicle was removed from the stolen vehicle system and the registered owner was notified. 

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
July 28 at 9:35 a.m., an employee from a business in the 900 block of W. Huntington called police to report a subject was smoking drugs from a glass pipe in front of the location. An officer arrived and saw the subject holding drug paraphernalia. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody. 

Plans for Education This Fall; Helping Teachers With Tech and World Language Standards

At its next meeting (agenda: https://is.gd/jMhDj9) the Monrovia Board of Education will consider ...

~ Plans for distance education this fall. Here is the plan for elementary grades: https://is.gd/tnnyID

And here is the plan for secondary grades: https://is.gd/gmz1Q8

~ Hiring EmpowerED for $3,000 to help elementary dual immersion teachers integrate technology and world language standards in their classes for distance learning (https://is.gd/8vhrLz). And if you're curious what World Language Standards are ... https://is.gd/ooN3ok

- Brad Haugaard

13 More Cases - Now 515; No More Deaths

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 07/28 . Changes since 07/27 .

City of Monrovia: 515 cases (up 13), 33 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 64 cases (up 5), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 3 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Toasty Hot Thursday Through Saturday

The National Weather Service predicts temperatures between 97 and 107 degrees for the San Gabriel Valley from 11 a.m. Thursday to 9 p.m. Saturday with the hottest day being Friday. https://is.gd/pOjKmN

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count Breaks 500

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 07/27 . Changes since 07/26 .

City of Monrovia: 502 cases (up 6), 33 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 59 cases (unchanged), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 3 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Sweet Oreo Needs a Forever Home



Oreo's owner was moving and couldn't take Oreo with him. This sweet cat deserves a wonderful forever home and we know her pretty eyes and beautiful white whiskers will get her noticed! Five-year-old Oreo is understandably a little shy at the shelter - everything is new for her. But she's still been confident enough to approach our staff and ask for pets with a head bump. With the stability of a loving home, Oreo will be a loving cat. She just needs someone to take a chance on her!

The adoption fee for cats is $90. All cat adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.

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 and fill out an online adoption application. Adoptions are by appointment only.

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

- Brad Haugaard

496 Cases, Up 10. No New Deaths

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 07/26 . Changes since 07/25 .

City of Monrovia: 496 cases (up 10), 33 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 59 cases (unchanged), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 3 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 486 - Up 5

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 07/25 . Changes since 07/24 .

City of Monrovia: 486 cases (up 5), 33 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 59 cases (up 3), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 3 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 481

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 07/24 . Changes since 07/23 .

City of Monrovia: 481 cases (up 7), 33 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 56 cases (unchanged), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 3 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 474 - Up 8

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 07/23 . Changes since 07/22 .

City of Monrovia: 474 cases (up 8), 33 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 56 cases (up 3), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 3 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

ChalkDemic! Sidewalk or Driveway Chalk Art Show

Monrovia ChalkDemic! will be held from Wednesday, July 29, through Sunday, August 2. It's free and the canvas can be your home's sidewalk, driveway or driveway apron.

Prizes are $50 gift certificates to Old Town Monrovia merchants. One each to the top three Monrovia resident entries and top three professional artist entries.

For further information contact Christine Gelz at christine@monroviafinearts.org, or Frank Zgonc at frazgo@msn.com.

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner from Jake’s Road House

Dinner from Jake’s Road House tonight. It’s on the east side of Myrtle just north of Olive. Got the Barbecue Chicken Salad for $13.95.  It was tasty, and filling, and there’s plenty left over for tomorrow.

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 466, Up 5. 33 Deaths, Up 1

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m. July 21:

Monrovia: 466 (up 5 since 8 p.m. July 20), 33 deaths (up 1).
Unincorporated Monrovia: 53 (unchanged), no deaths.
Glen Park (assisted living, 110 N Mountain), 3 cases, no deaths.
Trader Joe's market: 5 cases, no deaths.

- Brad Haugaard

School Board to Meet Weekly Until School Starts

In light of all the changes that have to be made because of the plague, the Monrovia School Board has decided to meet every week until the first day of school in order  to better inform the public on its progress. That according to School Board Vice President Bryan Wong.

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: Trespassing to Skate; Stealing Vehicles, and From Vehicles; Drugs and Stuff

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 16-22. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 356 service events, resulting in 76 investigations.

Vehicle Burglary
July 16 at 10:19 a.m., a guest at a hotel in the 700 block of W. Huntington called police to report his vehicle had been burglarized sometime during the night in the hotel parking lot. Officers arrived and discovered several personal items were stolen and the interior of the vehicle was ransacked. This investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence Restraining Order Violation – Suspect Arrested
July 16 at 10:50 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of E. Pomona called police to report that his ex-wife was inside his house. He advised that he had a court order restraining her from being near him due to a past incident of domestic violence. Officers arrived and conducted an investigation, as the female subject was still at the location. The court order was confirmed and she was arrested for violating the domestic violence restraining order.

Grand Theft Auto
July 17 at 7:48 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 1800 block of S. Myrtle. The vehicle is a work van and it was taken sometime during the night. Officers arrived and conducted an investigation. This investigation is continuing.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
July 17 at 8:39 p.m., an officer was conducting extra patrol in a business parking lot in the 1600 block of S. Mountain when he observed a subject asleep in his vehicle. The officer contacted the subject to check on his welfare. As the subject stepped out of his vehicle, the officer observed drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle. Further investigation revealed the subject was in possession of multiple controlled substances. The subject was arrested.

Vandalism
July 17 at 8:39 p.m., an officer drove by the skate park in the 800 block of E. Olive and saw numerous subjects skating. The lock had been cut off. The officer replaced the lock and reviewed surveillance video. The footage showed an adult male cutting the lock off the gate. This investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
July 18 at 6:59 a.m., a traffic collision was reported at the intersection of Huntington and Mayflower. Officers arrived and found one of the drivers was complaining of pain, but did not have any visible injuries. Paramedics from the Monrovia Fire Department responded. After investigating the collision, the driver found to be at fault was issued a citation.

Battery – Suspect Arrested
July 18 at 10:05 a.m., a resident called police to report three male subjects fighting at a home in the 400 block of Monrovista. Officers responded and located the subjects, who had stopped fighting. After investigation, two of the subjects placed the third subject under private person’s arrest. The officers arrested and took custody of the aggressor.

Trespassing
July 18 at 5:07 p.m., an officer was patrolling the Monrovia Skate Park in the 800 block of E. Olive when he saw ten juveniles skating against the City's order, closing skating activity in the park. The juveniles were advised of the order and they left the park.

Warrant / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Weapons Violation – Suspects Arrested
July 18 at 5:33 p.m., officers were patrolling the area of Alta Vista and Walnut when they saw a motorist commit a driving violation. They stopped the vehicle and found the driver had a warrant for her arrest. The driver was also found to be in possession of a controlled substance and an illegal throwing star. The passenger was also found to be in possession of a controlled substance. Both subjects were arrested.

Drug Activity – Suspect Arrested
July 19 at 2:24 a.m., an officer on patrol in the 600 block of S. Myrtle saw a subject walk behind a closed business. He made contact with the subject, which ultimately led to the subject admitting he had a controlled substance on his person. The subject was searched, and it was confirmed that he was in possession of a controlled substance. The subject was arrested.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered
July 19 at 12:01p.m., a suspicious vehicle was reported in the 100 block of El Norte. An officer responded, and the investigation revealed the vehicle had been reported stolen out of El Monte. The vehicle was recovered.

Grand Theft Auto / Stolen Vehicle Recovered
July 19 at 2:32 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen near the intersection of Lemon and Primrose. The vehicle was entered into the Stolen Vehicle System, and about an hour later, the vehicle was located and recovered by Irwindale Police Department. The investigation is continuing.

Possession of a Controlled Substance for Sales / Weapons Violation – Suspect Arrested
July 21 at 2:17 a.m., officers stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation near the intersection of Duarte and Mayflower. An investigation revealed the driver had a suspended license and was on probation for drug sales. A search of the vehicle resulted in numerous controlled substances packaged for sale being found. Also recovered was cash and a large machete. The suspect was arrested.

Grand Theft Auto
July 21 at 7:15 a.m., a resident reported that his vehicle was stolen out of his driveway in the 300 block of N. Myrtle. Officers responded and conducted an investigation. It appears a spare key to the vehicle was used to take it during the early hours of the morning. This investigation is continuing.

Parole Violation – Suspect Arrested
July 21 at 8:15 a.m., officers responded to the 100 block of W. Foothill regarding a male subject screaming profanities. Officers contacted the subject, and the investigation revealed he had a warrant for his arrest for a parole violation. The subject was arrested for the warrant.

Theft / Fraud
July 21 at 8:35 a.m., the victim of a theft called police to report that her credit cards were stolen from her unlocked vehicle in the 100 block of E. Cherry. The cards were currently being used at business in Duarte. Officers responded to the business, but the suspects had fled the location and were not located. This investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Tampering
July 21 at 9:20 a.m., officers responded to the 500 block of N. Alta Vista regarding a possible theft from two vehicles. Both vehicles had been left unlocked while parked in the driveway. Sometime during the night, someone entered both vehicles and ransacked them. It appears nothing was taken. This investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting – Suspects Arrested
July 21 at 7:20 p.m., officers responded to the 500 block of W. Huntington regarding a theft in progress. Two suspects fled from loss prevention officers after taking merchandise from the business without paying for it. Officers searched the area and were able to locate and detain both suspects. The stolen property was recovered and both suspects were arrested.

About Those Painted Monrovia Rocks

You have no doubt seen some of the nicely painted rocks around Monrovia. I saw this one way up in the mountains above Monrovia Canyon Park - a rock among rocks.

On the back of the rock was this message…



The Facebook page, Monrovia Rocks, says:

"We have been inspired to paint rocks and spread them everywhere we go. We are based off the nationally recognized Kindness Rocks Project. We hope to spread happiness and cheer to our community and beyond. If you find a rock or feel like joining in the fun, please post pictures!! We LOVE having painters whether you're experienced or just beginning.

"Paint a rock and hide it. People who find it can keep or rehide it. On the back, write @monrovia_rocks so you can see who found your rock. Please only take, replace or move rocks that are on sidewalks or near the street. Do not take off porches, flower beds, in residential/community gardens or rocks that appear to belong to the home or business owner. Use your best discretion. If you want to not lose your rock, it's best to keep it inside, in your garden away from the street, or in your backyard. Have fun!!!"

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 461 and 32 Deaths - Up 1

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m. July 21:

Monrovia: 461 (up 15 since 8 p.m. July 20), 32 deaths (up 1).
Unincorporated Monrovia: 53 (up 2).
Glen Park (assisted living, 110 N Mountain), 3 cases, no deaths.
Trader Joe's market: 5 cases, no deaths.

- Brad Haugaard

Trader Joe's Will Stop 'Exoticizing' Other Cultures

Monrovia-based Trader Joe's is changing the labeling on some of its products, such as Trader Ming’s, Arabian Joe’s, Trader Jose’s, Trader Giotto’s and Trader Joe San, because such labels have been accused of being racist because they "exoticize" other cultures. https://is.gd/QopPvT

- Brad Haugaard

Madeline: A Sweet and Loving Soulmate Kitty

Two-year-old Madeline is such a sweet and loving cat... and beautiful, too! She loves attention and petting, and has so much affection to give. You may find this cutie kneading (or making biscuits, as some call it) because she’s so happy and friendly, or head butting you to get your attention. Madeline would do best as the only cat in the home, because she wants all your love for herself, and who could say no to that face? If you've been looking for your soul mate kitty, look no further!

The adoption fee for cats is $90. All cat adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.

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 and fill out an online adoption application. Adoptions are by appointment only.

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

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 446

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m. July 19:

Monrovia: 446 (up 15 since 8 p.m. July 16), 31 deaths (unchanged).
Unincorporated Monrovia: 51 (unchanged).
Glen Park (assisted living, 110 N Mountain), 3 cases, no deaths.
Trader Joe's market: 5 cases, no deaths.

- Brad Haugaard

Book Review: 1887 - A Slice of Life from the Year of Monrovia's Founding

If you're a Monrovia buff, 1887: A History of Early Monrovia, by Monrovia author Richard Singer, is for you!

It's a slice of life during the founding days of the city, mostly, as the title says, from the year of its incorporation, 1887.

You'll get to know the founders, what they were thinking, the times they were living in, the land boom and bust, the social events, the births and deaths,  the calls for a sewer system (it was getting stinky), and many more details, such as ...

- The story of a Monrovian to USC for a telescope and a building to house it. There was a drive to get the telescope installed on Monrovia Peak, but we lost. It ended up on top of another local mountain.

- A painful but instructive tale of why not to ship dynamite caps inside a kerosene stove.

- The volunteer fire department that - twice! - couldn't find its wrench to open the fire hydrant while buildings burned down.

- The Monrovia illustrator whose pictures of Spanish atrocities in Cuba helped lead to the Spanish-American War.

- The adventures of William Monroe after he founded Monrovia. From South America to Alaska to prospecting in the Klondike.

1887 is Singer's second book on Monrovia. He earlier published Renaissance Years: A History of Modern Monrovia. See review: https://is.gd/3YrUVg

1887 is available at the Monrovia Historical Museum (open Thursday and Sunday afternoons), or by calling (626) 675-8323 or emailing monroviahistoricalsociety1896@gmail.com. Cost is $30, with the full amount going to support Monrovia history projects.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 431, 31 Deaths - Up 1

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m. July 16:

Monrovia: 431 (up 19 since 8 p.m. July 14), 31 deaths (up 1).
Unincorporated Monrovia: 51 (up 1).
Glen Park (assisted living, 110 N Mountain), 3 cases, no deaths.
Trader Joe's market: 5 cases, no deaths.

- Brad Haugaard

Fellowship Church: No More In-Person Church for the Rest of 2020

Monrovia's huge Fellowship Church has decided there will be no in-person church for the rest of 2020.

A letter to church members says: "For the safety of our church and our communities at large, we have decided to suspend our in person weekend worship services for the remainder of 2020."

And ...

"Being led by love, we believe gathering thousands of us together in person, for an hour a week, isn't the most loving to our community, especially when we can not guarantee to keep you, our volunteers, our staff, and all of our kids safe.

"[W]e've reallocated every staff member towards providing help, care, and counseling to anyone in need, and towards creating content for parents/guardians, kids, youth as well as our daily Good News Today show, midweek message, and weekly services."

- Brad Haugaard

School Board to Consider Committee to Check for Inequities; Zoom Subscription; Greening Campuses

At its next meeting (agenda: https://is.gd/T9hrxp) the Monrovia Board of Education will consider ...

~ Creating a Policy Review Committee to "review district policies and procedures that may be a potential barrier to equity." https://is.gd/HbsMHh

~ Spending $18,000 for a one-year subscription for Zoom video conferencing software for the 2020-21 school year. https://is.gd/nfecsd

~ An agreement with AMIGOS, a California nonprofit, to implement an urban greening project on the campuses, including, "grass clearing, regrading to create concave rain gardens and bioswales, removal of grass, planting native  and drought‐tolerant  species, removing  hardscape, installing  permeable surfaces, installing trashcans, installing  interpretive  elements, and engaging  local youth and  their families in the design, installation, and monitoring. https://is.gd/nYBeYV

- Brad Haugaard

Free Money - If You Qualify; Online Water Safety Information

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

~ If you are "income eligible" and have had your income affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, you can apply for a one-time payment of up to $500 for rental assistance and for a one-time payment of up to $150 for utility assistance, paid for by the federal government. The city will begin accepting applications this Monday, July 20, through Thursday, July 30. Details: https://is.gd/btm0ys

~  The Red Cross wants to help parents, caregivers and kids to learn about water safety. If your child is not able to take formal swim lessons right now, you can still help them learn to be safer around backyard pools, ponds or other natural bodies of water. Videos and activity sheets for kids and free online courses for adults, here: https://is.gd/w4qnvp

- Brad Haugaard

A Bit About Those Big Old Pipes in Monrovia Canyon


If you've been to Canyon Park you may have seen the original pipes that William Monroe put in place to provide the city with water. Hear a bit of the history and pictures of those pipes in this video.

- Brad Haugaard

Adapting to the Plague

Monrovia businesses adapt to the Coronavirus. Top, Foothill Gym has moved its exercise equipment outdoors. Bottom, Peach Cafe has expanded its outdoor seating into the street. 

- Brad Haugaard 

City Council to Consider: Nominees to Equity Committee, Budget, Proposed Condo, Historic Landmarks

At its next meeting (agenda: https://is.gd/BlatPh) the Monrovia City Council will ...

~ Consider appointing Rev. Neil Tadken, Edward Elizalde, Susie Ling, Henry Olivas, Jr., and Ruhiyyih Yullie to an ad hoc committee to look over city policies, procedures and practices to see if there are any systemic inequities in how the city treats people. https://is.gd/e3Tes4

~ Review the proposed 2020-21 budget. https://is.gd/cLD9Kq

~ Consider a conditional use permit to allow development of a six-unit, two-and-three-story condominum complex at at 910 S. Ivy, a bit south of Chestnut on the east side of Ivy. https://is.gd/rfJcpS

~ Consider declaring properties at 234 W. Greystone (https://is.gd/Aq6sk5) and 408 East Colorado (https://is.gd/mJ6LwY) as historic landmarks.

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner from Rudy’s Mexican Food

Dinner tonight from Rudy’s Mexican Food, at the corner of Myrtle and Colorado. Got the carnitas plate for $17.25.  Very tasty and filling and enough for lunch tomorrow. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: Arrest for Murder Threats; Cash Register Unattended for Two Hours, $300 Lost; Woman Leaves Car Running, Someone Drives Off With It; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 9-15. - Brad Haugaard]


During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 350 service events, resulting in 62 investigations. 

Grand Theft Auto
July 9 at 8:19 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 1800 block of California. The victim reported the vehicle belonged to his business and it was stolen off the street sometime during the night. Officers arrived and conducted an investigation. This investigation is continuing. 

Criminal Threats
July 9 at 11:55 a.m., officers responded to the 1300 block of S. Mayflower regarding a subject going into the location and threatening to kill the security guard. Multiple calls on the same subject acting erratically had been made over the last two weeks at the location. A no-trespassing order had also been completed against the subject. Officers tried to locate the subject at his home, but he was not there. Investigation continuing. 

Theft
July 9 at 7:01 p.m., a resident reported that the catalytic converter had been stolen off his vehicle. The vehicle had been parked in the 700 block of S. Ivy. This investigation is continuing. 

Criminal Threats / Wanted Person – Suspect Arrested
July 10 at 8:15 a.m., a security guard for a commercial building in the 1300 block of S. Mayflower reported a male subject who made death threats toward him the previous day had returned. Officers responded, located the subject, and arrested him for making criminal threats. 

Fraud
July 10 at 10:13 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of E. Hillcrest reported that she was a victim of fraud. She had received a telephone call from someone claiming they could remove viruses from her computer, so she gave this person access to her computer, then ended up wiring him $26,000 from her savings account to a bank in Thailand. This investigation is continuing. 

Commercial Burglary
July 10 at 11:06 p.m., a hotel in the 900 block of S. Fifth called to report a burglary. The front desk was left unattended for approximately two hours. During that time, a male suspect entered, looked around for a few moments and then jumped over the front desk. The suspect proceeded to open the register and retrieve money. Approximately $300 was stolen from the register. The investigation is continuing. 

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
July 11 at 7:13 a.m., a caller reported a vehicle collided into a parked car in the 1100 block of S. Magnolia, then flipped over. Officers and paramedics responded, but the driver was not injured. He was using his cellphone and became distracted, causing the collision. After investigation, the driver was issued a citation. 

Theft from a Vehicle
July 12 at 8:51 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of E. El Norte reported someone had entered her unlocked vehicle which was parked in front of her house and took money and groceries that were inside. This investigation is continuing. 

Vandalism
July 12 at 3:33 p.m., an officer was patrolling the 2600 block of S. Myrtle when he saw graffiti on the side of a building. The officer contacted the owner of the building, but he did not know how long it had been there. The graffiti will be removed. This investigation is continuing. 

Theft From a Vehicle
July 12 at 9:49 p.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 400 block of W. Huntington. The victim left his vehicle unlocked while he went into a restaurant. When he returned, he found his jacket was missing, along with his wallet containing his credit cards. This investigation is continuing. 

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
July 12 at 11:58 p.m., officers responded to a residence in the 400 block of Lotone regarding a male and female yelling at each other. When officers arrived, the female said she and her fiancé were arguing and he choked her multiple times. Officers found there was an existing restraining order issued three months prior, due to a similar incident. The male suspect was arrested for domestic violence. 

Injury Traffic Collision
July 13 at 9:04 a.m., two vehicles collided at the intersection of Foothill and Shamrock. Officers responded along with paramedics from Monrovia Fire and Rescue. One of the drivers was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. 

Theft of a Firearm
July 13 at 5:56 p.m., officers responded to the 300 block of E. Palm regarding the theft of a shotgun. The victim allowed a subject to stay at his house overnight. The subject had offered to purchase the shotgun from the victim. The victim refused to sell the shotgun and the next day the shotgun went missing. This investigation is continuing. 

Assault with a Deadly Weapon (Vehicle) – Suspect Arrested
July 14 at 10:12 a.m., a caller reported a traffic collision involving a tow truck near the intersection of California and Evergreen. Officers responded to the scene of the collision. During the investigation, an officer learned the tow truck picked up a disabled vehicle out of town and was towing it to Monrovia, but there was a disagreement regarding the extra fees. The tow truck driver left the shop with the vehicle, and the owner’s husband followed the tow truck. At one point, the husband cut off the tow truck and began to argue with the driver. The tow truck driver backed up his vehicle, and the husband reversed his vehicle and intentionally collided into the tow truck. He was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon. 

Grand Theft Auto
July 14 at 11:34 a.m., a female subject called police to report her vehicle was stolen from the 1000 block of S. Canyon. Officers responded and conducted an investigation. The victim left her vehicle running while she dropped off items inside of a building. She was away from her vehicle for approximately three minutes. When she returned, the vehicle was gone. This investigation is continuing. 

Anderson House Gets New Roof

The historic George Anderson House, home of the Monrovia Historical Society, is getting a new roof. The museum is on the north side of Lime just east of Ivy. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 412, Up 10

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m. July 14:

Monrovia: 412 (up 10 since 8 p.m. July 13), 30 deaths (unchanged).
Unincorporated Monrovia: 50 (unchanged).
Glen Park (assisted living, 110 N Mountain), 3 cases, no deaths.
Trader Joe's market: 5 cases, no deaths.

- Brad Haugaard

Calvary Chapel Monrovia to Meet in its Parking Lot

Although the state has re-closed church buildings, Monrovia's Calvary Chapel has announced that it plans to meet government requirements but continue to  meet physically by meeting in its parking lot, perhaps under a tent.

- Brad Haugaard

Online Bugs and Critters Seminar This Saturday

Monrovia Community Garden is holding a seminar on, "All Things Pests, Bugs, and Critters," this Saturday, July 18, 10-11:30 a.m. Send an email to info@monroviacommunitygarden.org with your email and you will be registered for the Zoom meeting.

- Brad Haugaard

School Will Be 100% Online This Fall

In a special meeting Tuesday night the Monrovia School Board voted unanimously to start the school year 100 percent online. https://youtu.be/1xdtMuh_BJI?t=7195

Why Board Member Gililland is upside down I don't know. ;-)

Board President Rob Hammond added in a Facebook post: "We all wanted to be able to welcome your children in August. We worked tirelessly to create a system that would sustain the increased traffic and interaction. While current conditions prevent us from implementing that plan on August 19, we will have it ready for the day conditions do allow it. We start school in this manner with every intention of having our students return as soon as safely possible."

Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 402, 1 More Death

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m. July 13:

Monrovia: 402 (up 9 since 8 p.m. July 12), 30 deaths (up 1).
Unincorporated Monrovia: 50 (up 3).
Glen Park (assisted living, 110 N Mountain), 3 cases, no deaths.
Trader Joe's market: 5 cases, no deaths.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 370, Up 23 in Two Days

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m. July 12:

Monrovia: 393 (up 23 since 8 p.m. July 10), 29 deaths (unchanged).
Unincorporated Monrovia: 47 (up 1).
Glen Park (assisted living, 110 N Mountain), 3 cases, no deaths.
Trader Joe's market: 5 cases, no deaths.

- Brad Haugaard

Stoney - A Wallflower No Longer


Four-year-old Stoney was a little bit of a wallflower when she came into the shelter as a stray, and also had painful bladder stones. But with surgery and healing, and now lots of treats and play time, she’s really warmed up to our staff and shown her puppy-like demeanor. She has lots of fun romping in the yard during Small Dog Play Group with all her other little dog friends, so she would probably do well with other dogs in the home. She loves play so much, she’s always the one trying to get the other dogs to join her fun and games! Stoney had some trust to build and some healing to do when we first met her, but now she’s ready for her forever home!

The adoption fee for dogs is $140. All dog adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.

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 and fill out an online adoption application. Adoptions are by appointment only.

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

- Brad Haugaard

Old Town Advisory Board to Meet Regarding Outdoor Dining

The Monrovia Old Town Advisory Board will meet Tuesday, July 14, at 9:30 a.m., to further discuss outdoor dining in Old Town. Send comments to tcherry@ci.monrovia.ca.us before 8:30 a.m. on July 14. Comments may be summarized in the interest of time, however the full text will be provided to all members of the board prior to the meeting.

To watch the meeting and/or provide public comment from your computer or smartphone, call (626) 698-8630 or email rsandoval@ci.monrovia.ca.us before 8:30 a.m. on July 14 to get an ID and password. To comment, click the Participants "raised hand" icon at the appropriate time indicated during the meeting, and you will be selected from the meeting queue. Please limit comments to three minutes.

- Brad Haugaard

School Board to Discuss School in the Fall, Bill to Require Ethnic Studies Class

The Monrovia Board of Education will hold a special meeting Tuesday at 7 p.m. (agenda: https://is.gd/z2YcW5) to discuss:

~ What school is going to look like in the fall. Board President Rob Hammond writes on Facebook that the board wants to give both parents and the district as much time as possible to adapt to whatever plan is adopted.

~ Discuss supporting Assembly Bill 331 (https://is.gd/xKYuhZ), which would require students take a class in ethnic studies as a graduation requirement.

Watch at www.foothillsmedia.org/MUSD. Send public comments to publiccomments@monroviaschools.net

- Brad Haugaard

School Board Member Brian Wong is "Less Comfortable" Opening Schools

Monrovia School Board member Brian Wong writes on Facebook that while "the initial Task force and surveys may have indicated a hybrid model of returning back to school with the option of full time distance learning, things are very fluid. New cases in LA County are continuing to increase, not decrease.

"The health and safety of our students, staff and their families are our primary concern. It is possible that the first semester will again be 100% distance learning and we are preparing for that as well. The LA County Dept of Health and the CA Dept of Education are the driving forces on what the first day of school is going to look like. 

"Every day I am becoming less comfortable opening the schools."

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Today Activity Guide Available Online

Here is the online version of the Monrovia Today Summer Activity Guide. Lots of virtual stuff: https://is.gd/Lm2Wsa

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 370, No New Deaths

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m. July 10: Monrovia: 370 (up 12 since 8 p.m. July 8), 29 deaths (unchanged); Unincorporated Monrovia: 46 (up 1). Trader Joe's market: 5 cases, no deaths.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia School District's Plans for Reopening

Monrovia School District surveyed parents to see what they want school to look like, and here are the results ...


And here are the preliminary plans for opening Monrovia schools in the fall:

Elementary schools

Secondary schools

Full report here: https://is.gd/wMZDxy

- Brad Haugaard

Equity Committee Needs Members; Racism Discussion; Movies In the Park

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

~ The City Council has approved forming an ad hoc committee  to provide workshops for Monrovians to express their opinions regarding the policies, procedures and practices of the city and to identify structural and systemic problems within City Government. If you are interested in serving on this committee, or who would like more information, contact a City Councilmember: https://is.gd/qay5th

~ On Wednesday, July 15, 6-7:30 p.m., ChangeMakers will hold a meeting and discussion on racism, bigotry, and injustice in our community. Dr. Wen Chen, of Cal Tech will discuss her experience with human rights and society in China and beyond. Details: https://is.gd/wCXjzt

~ Movies in the Park is back. Yes, physically, though you'll need reservations and plague rules apply. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, sit back with the family, relax and enjoy the evening with a movie under the stars. At Recreation Park, 620 S. Shamrock Ave. Events start at 6:30 p.m. and movies begin at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, July 18, 2020 - Detective Pikachu - Reservations
Saturday, July 25, 2020 - Little Rascals - Reservations
Saturday, August 1, 2020 - Frozen 2 - Reservations
Saturday, August 8, 2020 - Toy Story 4 - Reservations

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Summer Concerts ... Online


Summer concerts on the Internet. Not quite the same thing but hey! no ants or mosquitoes! :-) Click to enlarge.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 358

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m. July 8: Monrovia: 358 (up 6 since 8 p.m. July 7), 29 deaths (unchanged); Unincorporated Monrovia: 45 (unchanged).

Trader Joe's market: 5 cases, no deaths.

- Brad Haugaard

Toasty This Weekend - Highs of 104!

High temperatures in the San Gabriel Valley this Saturday and Sunday. A heat advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. Saturday to 8 p.m. Sunday. Temperatures in the upper 90s to 104 expected each day. Warmest in the foothills. https://is.gd/SvCxH9

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Wins Awards for GoMonrovia and Monrovia Renewal Project

The City of Monrovia received two Local Government Excellence Awards from the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), the Community Partnership Award for the GoMonrovia program and the Strategic Leadership & Governance Award for the Monrovia Renewal project.

"Enhancing the quality of life through programs and projects is one of our highest priorities in Monrovia and GoMonrovia and Monrovia Renewal have done exactly that," said Monrovia Mayor Tom Adams. "Whether it's taking a discounted Lyft ride anywhere in the city or walking on a newly paved sidewalk, we are thrilled that our community is proud of and continues to support these award-winning programs and projects."

GoMonrovia uses ride-share programs offered by Lyft, which is the city's primary public transit provider for all non-disability-related (ADA) services. It collaborates with the city's existing dial-a-ride operator to serve passengers with ADA needs and helps transition dial-a-ride shuttles onto the Lyft platform.

Monrovia Renewal is a multi-year initiative to repair and restore the city's aging infrastructure that was plagued by a backlog of deferred maintenance. Since implementation, the city has completed approximately $41.7 million in improvements and repairs. Additionally, the city has made more than 8 million square feet of street improvements, 154,000 square feet of sidewalk replacements, 114,000 linear feet of new curbs and gutters, over 2.5 miles of new water pipelines, nearly 5 miles of sewer improvements, 197 point repairs to sewer lines and 800 new water service lines installed.

ICMA is the world's leading association of professional city and county managers and other employees who serve local governments.

Source: City of Monrovia press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: No Bomb, Just Ice Packs; Theft Suspect Drives 'Happy Birthday' Truck; Dog Bites Waitress; And More...

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 2-8. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 456 service events, resulting in 48 investigations.

Petty Theft
July 2 at 5:18 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of W. Evergreen called police to report a theft. Sometime during the night, someone removed the storage rack that had been mounted on his truck and stole it. This investigation is continuing.

Warrant / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
July 3 at 6:36 a.m., police received a call reporting a suspicious person inside a parking structure in a 200 block of W. Pomona. Officers arrived and detained the subject. A computer check revealed a no-bail warrant was issued for the subject for a parole violation. The subject was arrested for the warrant and during a search incident to arrest, drug paraphernalia was located on his person, which was added to his charges.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
July 3 at 10:34 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 700 block of W. Huntington when he saw a vehicle commit a vehicle code violation. The officer conducted a traffic stop and the driver admitted to being in possession of drug paraphernalia. She was arrested for possession of a drug pipe.

Theft – Suspect Arrested
July 3 at 6:59 p.m., a resident in the 500 block of W. Duarte called police to report she saw a male subject walking out of her apartment complex with her bike. When she yelled at the suspect, he fled. Officers set up containment of the area and were assisted by the Foothill Air Support Team helicopter. The suspect was subsequently located and arrested.

Suspicious Circumstances / Bomb Squad Call-Out
July 3 at 7:41 p.m., officers responded to the north gate of the police department regarding a suspicious package. Surveillance video was reviewed and it showed a female subject place a box at the location. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Bomb Squad was called to investigate. They determined the box was safe and, upon inspection, found it contained three large ice packs.

Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspects Arrested
July 4 at 9:29 a.m., officers were patrolling the 1100 block of Encino when they contacted two suspicious subjects in a hotel parking lot. One of the subjects was registered as a guest at the hotel. Both subjects were found to be in possession of methamphetamine and were arrested.

Brandishing a Weapon
July 4 at 9:36 a.m., a male subject called police to report the brandishing of a weapon. The subject rents a room from a resident in the 300 block of Prospect. The renter went to the house to collect a refund after being told to leave the location that same morning. When he knocked on the door, the owner of the home answered, knowing the renter was coming to collect money. The owner went to get something and said he would be right back. He returned brandishing a handgun and told the renter to get off the property. He also told the renter he was not going to get his money back. The renter left the area and called the police. This investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
July 4 at 11:51 a.m., a subject went to visit Canyon Park and left her vehicle parked in the 600 block of N. Canyon. When she returned, she discovered someone had shattered one of the windows to gain entry and took several personal items. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft from a Vehicle
July 4 at 12:26 p.m., a resident in the 800 block of W. Foothill reported a grand theft. Someone took his tools from his unlocked truck, which was parked in front of his home. Surveillance video shows the theft occurred at 11:30 a.m., and the suspect vehicle was a green Toyota Tacoma with Happy Birthday written in pink lettering all over the truck. This investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting
July 4 at 1:13 p.m., an employee of a beauty supply store in the 600 block of W. Huntington reported a male subject had just left the store with electric hair clippers without paying for the item. Officers searched the area for the suspect, but were unable to locate him. This investigation is continuing.

Dog Bite
July 4 at 2:48 p.m., a dog bite incident was reported in the 400 block of S. Myrtle. The victim is a server at a restaurant. At 1:00 p.m., she walked outside the restaurant where a customer was sitting at a table with their dog and the dog bit her on the leg. The victim went to a nearby hospital for medical care after obtaining the owner's information. Pasadena Humane was notified and will be handling this incident.

Driving Under the Influence / Traffic Collision – Driver Arrested
July 5 at 11:08 a.m., a caller reported a traffic collision at Myrtle and California. A motorist was driving south on California and fell asleep, colliding into a parked car. Officers responded and, after investigation, determined the driver was driving under the influence. He was arrested for DUI and held for a sobering period.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
July 7 at 9:22 p.m., a caller reported a subject lying on the sidewalk in the 400 block of W. Duarte. Officers responded to check on the subject’s welfare. They located the subject and determined he was too intoxicated to care for his own safety. He was arrested for public intoxication and held for a sobering period.

Grand Theft Auto
July 8 at 9:42 a.m., a caller in the 600 block of W. Duarte reported someone had stolen his daughter’s 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe sometime during the night. Officers arrived and conducted an investigation. The vehicle was entered into the stolen vehicle system. Investigation continuing.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered
July 8 at 12:14 p.m., a caller reported a vehicle had been parked in the 1600 block of S. Myrtle for the past eight days. Officers arrived, and the investigation revealed the vehicle had been reported stolen out of North Hollywood. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
July 8 at 6:34 p.m., officers responded to the 200 block of W. Colorado regarding a stolen vehicle. The caller reported his vehicle had been parked in front of his residence earlier in the day. The vehicle was entered into the stolen vehicle system and later that night, it was recovered by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department with the suspect driving. The suspect was arrested.

Vandalism
July 8 at 7:00 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 600 block of W. Huntington regarding a window smash to a vehicle. The victim had been away from his vehicle a short time. When he returned, he saw the driver-side, rear window had been smashed. All doors were still locked and nothing was taken from the vehicle. This investigation is continuing.

Editor's Note: Be careful leaving valuables in your vehicles. I got a note from reader, "Ali Kat," who said: "I wanted to alert the citizens to not leave any valuables in the trunk of their cars because thieves have some sort of slim jim or master key to get into them. Especially if they park on the street. They got me." Good advice.

Lunch from Gene’s Grinders

Lunch from Gene’s Grinders, at the southeast corner of Myrtle and Olive. Got the Combination sandwich (ham, salami, provolone) for $8. Yum!

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: Up 16 in Two Days, to 352 - 1 More Death

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m. July 7: Monrovia: 352 (up 16 since 8 p.m. July 5), 29 deaths (up 1); Unincorporated Monrovia: 45 (up 7).

Brookdale Monrovia: 8 (unchanged), 1 death (unchanged).

Trader Joe's market: 5 cases, no deaths.

- Brad Haugaard