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Monrovia's Senator Upset Over Possible Criminal Releases

Senator Bob Huff is upset that Governor Jerry Brown is going ahead with his plan to shift prisoners to county jails or put them on probation. He said there are "over 500 felony crimes which will no longer lead to prison," including ...
 
- Vehicular manslaughter while under the influence (not involving gross negligence) (Penal Code § 191.5(c)(2)),
- Felony child abuse (pursuant to Penal Code § 273d),
- Elder financial abuse (various subdivisions of Penal Code § 368),
- Street gang recruiting (Penal Code § 186.26),
- Assault by means of force likely to produce great bodily injury (Penal Code § 245(a)(1),
- Hate crimes (Penal Code § 422.7),
- Practicing medicine without a license (Business and Professions Code § 2052),
- Nearly all of the drug crimes, including sales of drugs to children and manufacturing methamphetamine (various Health and Safety Code sections),
- Violations of the Gun Free School Zone Act (Penal Code § 626.9),
- Threats of harm against elected officials (Penal Code § 76),
- Insurrection (Military and Veterans Code § 455),
- Female genital mutilation (Penal Code § 273.4),
- A second violation of domestic violence protective order (Penal Code § 273.6),
- Identity theft (Penal Code § 530.5),
- Knowingly giving/selling a firearm to a person prohibited from possessing a firearm because he or she was committed to a mental institution (Welfare and Institutions Code § 8101),
- Participation in an act of lynching (Penal Code § 405b),
- Willfully and intentionally (or with reckless disregard for the risk of great bodily injury or death of any person) emitting an air contaminant that results in unreasonable risk of great bodily injury or death of any person (Health and Safety Code § 42400.3),
- Mortgage fraud (Penal Code § 532f),
- Bribing electors to vote or not vote (Elections Code § 18521).
 
 
- Brad Haugaard

Portantino to Attend Court Hearing on Whether to Force Assembly to Make Its Records Public

Assemblyman Anthony Portantino, who represents part of Monrovia, plans to attend a court hearing Friday in Sacramento Superior Court stemming from his efforts to force the Assembly to make its budget records public.
  
Portantino said, "The public has a fundamental right to know how its money is being spent and it is outrageous that the Assembly refuses to adopt and adhere to the California Public Records Act. There is no greater abuse of power than to shun accountability and disrespect the citizens of our great state by conducting the people’s business in secret."
 
He has introduced a House Resolution to change Assembly Rules to require transparency and an Assembly bill that would force the legislature to comply with the same open government rules that every agency in the state follows.

"I am hoping that the court forces the Assembly to finally release all budgets so that we can finally shed some light on how our taxpayer dollars are being spent," Portantino said.
 
- Brad Haugaard (from press release)

Monrovia 'Pocket Park' | Dinner for the Band | Lee Murder Trial | Unity Center

~ The Monrovia City Council will hold a special meeting tomorrow (Dec. 1) to consider buying 601 Los Angeles Avenue to be a "pocket park." http://goo.gl/INjt0
 
~ Help the Wildcat band and color guard. Have dinner tonight at Rubio's with this flyer. http://goo.gl/b4wrH
 
~ Prosecution rests in Felicia Lee murder trial. http://goo.gl/21Aum
 
~ Foothill Unity Center reports that it will be distributing food to 2,000 low-income area families. Executive Director Joan Whitenack said, "Over the past three years, the number of people coming to us for help has doubled - and stayed there." Visit foothillunitycenter.org to see how you can help.
 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Firm Connected With Fraud, Money-Laundering

A man has been sentenced for fraud and money-laundering through multiple entities, including a "bogus debt collection agency" in Monrovia.  Details: http://goo.gl/0B3Fn
 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Company Makes iPhone Welding App | Open House Burglaries

~ Need to do welding? There's an app for that from a Monrovia company. http://goo.gl/6vgNF

~ Suspect arrested in Monrovia on suspicion of burglaries at open houses in Glendora and points east. http://goo.gl/FcSLb

- Brad Haugaard

South Pas Mayor Pro Tem Running for Assembly in Monrovia's District

South Pasadena Mayor Pro Tempore Michael Cacciotti has announced he will run for the State Assembly in the new 41st District, which includes Monrovia, Pasadena, South Pasadena, East Pasadena, Altadena, Sierra Madre, San Dimas, La Verne, Claremont, Upland, San Antonio Heights, Falling Springs and the Los Angeles National Forest.

Cacciotti is a deputy attorney general for the California Department of Justice and a member of the South Pasadena City Council.  He has twice served as mayor. He is an environmental advocate, has been an advisory board member on the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy since 2001 and a governing board member on the South Coast Air Quality Management District, representing the Eastern region of Los Angeles County.  He was a volunteer at St. Vincent's Meals on Wheels for over a decade, currently volunteers at South Pasadena's Senior Center, and has served as a youth (AYSO), high school, and college soccer coach for more than 30 years.  He has lived in the district for almost 20 years.  He and his wife, Annie, live in South Pasadena with their labrador retrievers.
 
- Brad Haugaard (from press release)

Garrison Back Coaching Monrovia | STAAR Can Sell Lens in Japan

~ Former Monrovia football coach Steve Garrison is back with Monrovia. http://goo.gl/qpU9H
 
~ STAAR Surgical of Monrovia has obtained permission from the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare to sell its Visian Toric in-the-eye lenses in Japan. http://goo.gl/0L8nQ
 
- Brad Haugaard

Possible Freeway Lane Closures | Carols at Monrovia First Presbyterian | Felicia Lee Murder Trial

~ Some eastbound 210 lanes may be closed at times between now and Dec. 10 for construction of the Gold Line bridge near Santa Anita Ave. If so, the closures will be from no earlier than 10 p.m. through no later than 1 p.m. the following day. The construction crew will be pouring concrete for the support columns.


~ Christmas Carols by Classical Masters at Monrovia First Presbyterian Church. http://goo.gl/7oKoB


~ Monrovia PD officer testifies in Felicia Lee murder trial. http://goo.gl/QRrLe


- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia PD: Suspects Simulate Guns But Get Nothing, Fake $100 Bills, Wrong Way on to the Freeway, Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for Nov. 21-27. - Brad Haugaard]
 
Following are the highlighted issues and events for November 21-27, 2011.  To see a complete listing of crimes reported, go to the City of Monrovia website at www.cityofmonrovia.org and click on the crime mapping link.
 
Burglary / Criminal Threats - Suspect Arrested
On November 21 at 11:45 a.m., a resident in the 1300 block of South Primrose found a male subject rummaging through clothes in her garage.  The suspect told the resident he was running from the police, and if she contacted the police, he would be back to hurt her.  He fled the area and the victim called police.  Officer responded and located the suspect.  The suspect was positively identified by the resident.  He was arrested for the charges of burglary and criminal threats.
 
Driving Under the Influence - Suspect Arrested
On November 21 at 9:26 p.m., officers responded to the report of a drunk driver in the parking lot of a restaurant in the 600 block of West Huntington.  Upon arrival, officers saw the vehicle traveling east on Huntington.  They stopped the vehicle for several traffic violations in the 600 block of West Huntington.  After investigation, the driver was determined to be under the influence and was arrested for DUI.  The vehicle was stored.
 
Grand Theft from Vehicle
On November 23 at 7:43 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of Highland reported that someone had broken into his vehicle.  His vehicle was parked in the driveway and was broken into sometime after 9:00 p.m. the previous night.  The officer found all of the vehicle doors were unlocked and there were no signs of forced entry to indicate a burglary.  A laptop computer worth about $1000.00 was taken.  No witnesses or suspects were located.  Investigation continuing.
 
Petty Theft from Vehicle
On November 23 at 12:35 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Lotone Street regarding theft from a vehicle.  The female victim reported her vehicle was parked in the driveway at 9:30 p.m. the night before.  In the morning, she discovered her Bluetooth earpiece was missing from the center console.  She checked the rest of the vehicle and discovered that her black faux fur coat was missing from the trunk.  All doors were unlocked and there were no sign of forced entry.  The investigation is continuing.
 
Grand Theft from Vehicle
On November 23 at 1:41 p.m., a male subject came into the police department lobby to report a theft of checks from his vehicle.  He had parked his vehicle in the street in front of his residence in the 500 block of West Scenic Drive.  The crime had occurred sometime during the night.  He had several money orders in the center console that were made out to a business and he thought he had locked the doors, but there were no signs of forced entry.  Investigation continuing.
 
Attempt Robbery
On November 23 at 9:52 p.m., officers responded to the 800 block of Mountain View regarding an attempt robbery.  Five juveniles were talking on the corner of Mountain View and Mountain when a white Honda occupied by three male black suspects pulled up. Two of the suspects exited the vehicle and approached the juveniles.  They simulated handguns under their shirts, demanded money and electronics, and threatened to shoot the juveniles.  The third suspect, still sitting in the vehicle, suddenly revved the engine of the car.  The two suspects then returned to the vehicle and they all fled, abruptly, without any property.  Investigation continuing.
 
Driving Under the Influence / Hit and Run Traffic Collision - Suspect Arrested
On November 24 at 7:14 a.m., a traffic collision occurred in the 100 block of North Fifth Avenue and the driver ran from the scene.  When officers arrived, they conducted an area search and observed a subject who matched the description of the driver walking in an alley.  The subject ran, but was detained in a nearby yard.  The suspect was positively identified as the driver involved in the collision by witnesses.  The driver is a 17-year-old juvenile who had been drinking.  The juvenile was arrested, cleared medically, and later released to a parent on a citation.
 
Commercial Burglary / Forgery - Suspects Arrested
On November 25 at 9:00 a.m., dispatch received a call from the manager of a retail business in the 500 block of West Huntington.  The manager was reporting a female suspect attempting to purchase merchandise with counterfeit 100 dollar bills.  Officers conducting extra patrols in the area responded within minutes and detained a female suspect inside the store.  A second suspect who had selected merchandise and left without paying was detained in her vehicle.  During the investigation, both suspects were found to have additional counterfeit bills in their possession.  A receipt for another store in the same shopping center was discovered on the suspect who was sitting in the vehicle.  Officers checked the second business and discovered that both suspects had also made purchases there using counterfeit 100 dollar bills.  The suspects were arrested and taken into custody.
 
Driving Under the Influence of Drugs / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Warrant - Suspects Arrested
On November 25 at 2:57 p.m., an officer observed a subject at a red signal heading south on Mayflower at Huntington.  The left turn signal turned green and the driver suddenly turned into the left turn lane and cut off several vehicles.  The officer stopped the driver, and through investigation, the driver was determined to be under the influence of a controlled substance and was arrested.  During a search of the vehicle, officers located a small plastic case containing two plastic baggies of methamphetamine and one baggie of marijuana.  There was a passenger in the vehicle that had an outstanding warrant for her arrest.  The passenger was also arrested.
 
Child Endangerment - Suspect Arrested
On November 25 at 8:46 p.m., a Monrovia park ranger observed a juvenile stumbling through a park in the 300 block of South Myrtle.  He contacted the juvenile and determined he was drunk.  Officers and medics were requested as the minor was beginning to hallucinate.  The minor was taken to a hospital and his parents were contacted.  The investigation revealed the minor had been provided alcohol and marijuana by a 20-year-old, male subject.  There were several other adult males present who had also encouraged the minor to drink and smoke.  The adult male who provided the minor with the alcohol was arrested and admitted to providing the alcohol and a marijuana pipe, but he denied providing the marijuana.  He is charged with felony child endangerment and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.  The investigation regarding the other male subjects is ongoing.
 
Commercial Burglary / Felony Child Endangerment - Suspect Arrested
On November 25 at 10:36 p.m., loss prevention at a business in the 500 block of West Huntington reported a female suspect had stolen merchandise, left the store, and was driving away in a red vehicle.  An officer in the area observed the vehicle attempting to enter the 210 Freeway from Huntington going wrong-way up the exit ramp.  The officer was able to catch up and stop the vehicle.  The female suspect had a four-year-old child in the car with her.  The suspect was taken into custody and positively identified by the loss prevention officer.  He advised the officer that the female suspect had the child with her when she committed the crime.  During a pat-down search, a usable quantity of methamphetamine was found on the suspect and a search of the vehicle revealed a usable quantity of cocaine.  The suspect was charged with commercial burglary, felony child endangerment, and the related narcotics charges.  The suspect is the child's aunt.  The child's mother was contacted and the child was released to her. 
 
Medical Assist
On November 27 at 10:44 p.m., an officer responded to a medical assist of an elderly woman having difficulty breathing at a residence in the 400 block of East Olive.  The officer arrived and knocked on the door, but no one answered.  The officer made entry into the residence by forcing the front door open.  Upon entering, he located the woman, who was unable to answer the door, and assisted her until Monrovia Fire Department arrived.  The woman was taken to a hospital by ambulance for treatment. 

Portantino Honored for AIDS Work

Assemblymember Anthony Portantino, who represents part of Monrovia, will be honored by the City of Pasadena Public Health Department with its Andrew Escajeda Humanitarian Award for his work to create greater community awareness about prevention, treatment and social services for HIV/AIDS.  For several years, Portantino has partnered with the Pasadena Public Health Department to offer free HIV testing and has also hosted the annual HIV/AIDS Action Summit at City of Hope Hospital in Duarte.

Portantino authored legislation that enables best-practice models of HIV counseling and testing and has led efforts to ensure that California receives its share of federal HIV funding. 
 
The ceremony, on Dec. 1, World AIDS Day, begins at 5:30 p.m. on the steps of Pasadena City Hall.
 
- Brad Haugaard (from press release)

Monrovia's Green Dot Jumps on Positive Rating


Monrovia's Green Dot Corporation, which provides prepaid charge cards, was rated as "Outperform," and its share prices have jumped. (Well, everything jumped today, but I guess Green Dot really jumped.) http://goo.gl/Oc39I
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia vs. Covina | Suo Boutique

~ A look at the Monrovia-Covina football rivalry. http://goo.gl/rQ7EU
 
~ Profile of Monrovia's Suo boutique. (At the bottom). http://goo.gl/dMYgF
 
- Brad Haugaard

AeroVironment and Mini Police Helicopter Drones

More on the possibility of Monrovia's AeroVironment making little police helicopter drones. http://goo.gl/4efsx
 
- Brad Haugaard

Christmas Already?


We went out to dinner tonight (Wang's Place) and saw Christmas decorations on houses (this one on Canyon) and in Old Town, and, of course, Christmas music at dinner (Oh, Holy Night, my favorite). Well, I hope Christmas saves all the retailers.

- Brad Haugaard

Secret Service Investigates Suspected Counterfeit Bills in Monrovia

Secret Service investigates suspected counterfeit-bill passing in Monrovia. http://goo.gl/Pdbxz
 
- Brad Hugaard

Monrovia Fire Department Collects for Kids


Firefighters collect cash to buy toys for kids who might not get them otherwise. Drop a few dollars in a firefighter's boot.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Football Over Whittier Christian :-)

Monrovia Wildcats scored 67 against 21 for Whittier Friday night. http://goo.gl/N2D20
- Brad Haugaard

Counterfeit Money in Monrovia? | Earthquake Prep | Felicia Lee Murder Trial

~ Woman accused of shopping with counterfeit $100 bills. http://goo.gl/DLkrs
 
~ Profile of a Monrovia earthquake prep company. http://goo.gl/IHuQI
 
~ More on Felicia Lee murder case. http://goo.gl/nhPiz
 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia vs. Whittier Tonight | Drone to Afghanistan

~ Monrovia football vs. Whittier Christian tonight at Whittier. http://goo.gl/5wLpW 
 
~ A killer drone built by Monrovia's AeroVironment is being deployed in Afghanistan. http://goo.gl/322Jg
 
- Brad Haugaard

Happy Thanksgiving, Monrovia!

I love the great holidays of my faith, Christmas and Easter, but what I like about Thanksgiving is that we can all celebrate it without qualms - anyone of any religion or no religion. All you have to be is thankful, even if it is just for football or food. Though it is an American holiday you don't even need to be an American ... I once said to a Brit I worked with, "You guys don't have a thanksgiving day in Great Britain, do you?" "Yes we do," he replied, "We celebrate it on the Fourth of July."
 
So have a happy Thanksgiving, whatever you're thankful for!
 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Football

Monrovia football in the playoffs. http://goo.gl/ve8mu
- Brad Haugaard

Friends of the Monrovia Library Offering Quality Books for 50 Cents

The Friends of the Monrovia Public Library store will hold its end-of-Year clearance during December. High-quality books usually selling for $2 will be available for 50 cents.
 
Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Wednesday and noon to 5 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, books are on display in the Always Open Annex, just north of the Customer Service Desk in the Library. The sale shelves will be restocked daily. The Friends Store will remain open during the sale for additional bargains - some at half-price, for $1. Cash and checks only. Also, during December the Friends Store will feature holiday materials for adults and children.

For more information, call (626) 932-5555, Ext. 3124 or visit www.friendsofmonroviapubliclibrary.org
 
- Brad Haugaard (from press release)

Monrovia's Green Dot to Buy Provo Bank

Monrovia's Green Dot to buy Bonneville Bank of Provo, Utah. http://goo.gl/5kD4O


Green Dot press release: http://goo.gl/ST1jB

- Brad Haugaard

Thanksgiving | Old Town Monrovia Shopping

~ To get you in the mood, three great Thanksgiving proclamations:


George Washington - http://goo.gl/WBQhx

Abraham Lincoln - http://goo.gl/kSHIY



~ Shopping events in Old Town: Santa and elves, KABC7 toy drive, Small Business Saturday (kickbacks - legal ones - from American Express), etc. http://goo.gl/pJRr6 . More details: http://goo.gl/YCdFA


- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's Naked Juice Faces Suit | Partial Freeway Closure | Food Distribution

~ Naked Juice of Monrovia is facing a lawsuit saying the company uses "unnaturally processed and synthetic ingredients" when it says they are "all natural." http://goo.gl/kQe5c
 
~ Gold Line construction may close up to three lanes of the eastbound 210 tonight, between 1 and 6 a.m. Nov. 23.
 
~ A report on the Foothill Unity Center's food distribution project in Arcadia Monday and Tuesday. http://goo.gl/s6sDz
 
- Brad Haugaard

Will Monrovia's McCarthy be a Trojan?

Monrovia football star Ellis McCarthy says he's leaning toward the Trojans rather than the Ducks. http://goo.gl/0Uxbw
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Energy Workshop | Randone Trial | Food and Toys | Schools Fundraiser

~ Free home energy upgrade workshop. Get $8,000 back for your energy efficiency improvements. Saturday, Dec. 3 from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the Monrovia Library Community Room. For more information and to register visit www.sgvcog.org/energyupgrade or call (626) 457-1800. http://goo.gl/Utvpr


~ Latest in Randone murder trial. http://goo.gl/Yf54R


~ Drop off canned food or an unwrapped gift for a boy or girl to the Monrovia Fire Department. Food will go to the Unity Center and the gift to Toys for Tots. http://goo.gl/LTyf6


~ Monrovia Schools Foundation is raising money for Monrovia education. For a thousand dollars you can have a plaque on one of the new seats in the Monrovia High auditorium. Checks to Monrovia Schools Foundation, P.O. Box 2447, Monrovia, CA 91017. 


- Brad Haugaard

Dial a Ride Usage Up | Santa at the Library

~ Ridership for Monrovia Transit (Dial-a-Ride) increased 12% in this October compared to October 2010, with more than 4,600 trips. More than 18,450 trips have been made by Monrovia Transit in Fiscal Year 2011-2012, which is a 10% increase over the prior fiscal year to date. Ridership complaints are few, and on-time performance is around 98%.
 
~ Santa at the Library on Saturday, Dec. 10 at 2 p.m. Stories, songs, a film, and a craft. Designed for children in fourth and fifth grade, but for the whole family. No registration required. Call (626) 256-8274 for more info.
 
 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Fire Department Deep-Fried-Turkey Tips

1. If you are planning on frying your turkey this year, prepare in advance, and use proper equipment. Use a specially designed outdoor cooker/deep fryer with a perforated basket insert. The cooking pot should be ten gallon or more capacity and stand three feet high, hooked up to a propane gas cylinder. The propane cylinder must be separated by a minimum of two feet from the fryer. Read and follow the manufacturer's directions and safety instructions. Place the fryer on a flat and level surface. Be aware of your clothing around the hot oil, which can spatter, and the open flame, which could ignite clothing. Roll sleeves up and tuck away loose clothing. Be sure you are strong enough to lower the turkey into, and lift it from, the 350-degree oil safely.
 
2. Keep heated items (hot oil and propane cooker) away from anything that can burn. The entire area for at least 10 feet in all directions must be fireproof. Never deep fry a turkey indoors, in a garage, on a porch, on a deck, or in any other structure attached to a building. Keep children and pets away from the cooking area. Never leave the hot oil unattended. The deep-fryer unit should be positioned so wind will direct the heat away from the gas cylinder, people, and structures.
 
3. Watch what you heat and cook. Deep fryers must always be attended during cooking. Never use a frozen turkey because the ice crystals can cause it to "explode" when it comes in contact with hot oil. Oil should not be allowed to go over 350 degrees; oil can ignite at 375 degrees. Allow oil to cool completely before disposing or storing. Never cover the deep fryer because this could cause overheating, or boiling over of the hot oil. Should a fire start, clear all people from the area and call 911.
 
4. Recycle that oil. Cooking oil can be recycled at recycling centers or household hazardous waste sites. These facilities will usually accept up to five gallons of cooking oil per resident per day during their regular hours of operation.
 
5. Enjoy your turkey when you're done.

 
- Brad Haugaard

Rose Court to Visit Unity Center Food Distribution Project

The 94th Rose Queen Court will visit Foothill Unity Center's 17th Annual Thanksgiving Distribution tomorrow (Nov. 22) between 10:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. at Ayers Hall at the Arboretum in Arcadia.
 
The Center will distribute Thanksgiving food for nearly 2,000 local low-income families. Each family will take home a food box packed to their family’s size.
 
All the Center’s programs are supported by donations of food, funds and volunteer time. http://foothillunitycenter.org/
 
- Brad Haugaard

Integration Plaintiff Dies | Missing Man

~ Monrovian Pat Rostker has died at age 90. The former Pasadenan was a plaintiff in the 1967 case that forced the integration of Pasadena schools. http://goo.gl/NHgJ9
 
~ Sheriff's Department wants help finding missing man last seen near Chantry Flat. http://goo.gl/wRsZh
 
- Brad Haugaard

Church Basement Coffee Bar

The newest coffee bar and music venue in Monrovia is in the basement of the First United Methodist Church, on Palm. http://goo.gl/PCXSG
 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Over Pomona :-)

Monrovia over Pomona in Football, 24-7. http://goo.gl/h0XC3
- Brad Haugaard

Gold Line Bridge | Monrovia PD Retrieves Stolen $28k Chinese Vase |Felicia Lee Murder Trial


Holding the dirt back during freeway bridge construction.

~ The Gold Line bridge construction crew installed 18-foot tall shoring plates this week to prevent earth from falling into the construction site as crews prepare to work on the south side abutment.

~ Monrovia Police retrieve stolen $28,000 Chinese vase. http://goo.gl/8TJtg

~ Testimony in the Felicia Lee murder trial. Medical examiner: She was in a struggle. http://goo.gl/m4NFl

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's World Vision Works to Prevent Food Crises

Monrovia's World Vision International (WVI) and the Food and the Agriculture Organisation (FAO) have signed a memo of understanding to promote global food security by improving early warning systems, preparedness in emergency responses, and gender and nutrition programs ( http://goo.gl/2LP53 ).

And speaking of hunger, World Vision warns that insects and inconsistent rains could result in a "devastating food crisis to West Africa within the next two to six months." ( http://goo.gl/pwwoR )

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Chicken King


Had lunch yesterday at Chicken King Express on Foothill near Mayflower. It's a Mediterranean place. Got the Chicken Tarator. It's a cold dish. I wasn't expecting that, but okay, and filling.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia vs. Pomona Football Preview

Video chat on the Monrovia-Pomona football game: http://goo.gl/vhG7P
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's STAAR Surgical - Waiting on the FDA

Profile on Monrovia's STAAR Surgical. It's new product has been approved for sale in Europe, but not in the U.S. Still waiting on word from the FDA. http://goo.gl/f8s4I
 
- Brad Haugaard

Gold Line Tightens Its Travel Reimbursement Requirements

The Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension Construction Authority Board of Directors is tightening its guidelines for out-of-state travel expenditures by Board members and Authority employees and clarifying reporting requirements for all expenses. Only reimbursement for business-class hotels; travelers should take public transportation when available; no reimbursement for first class or business class air fares; a $90 daily max for food and expenses; and no reimbursement for personal expenses, such as movie rentals.


OPINION: Well... good. Rather bizarre that the Gold Line sent this out to the world as a press release, and it makes me wonder what prompted it, but still... good.

- Brad Haugaard

Portantino to Battle Liu to Represent Monrovia in State Senate

Democratic State Assemblyman Anthony Portantino will challenge Democrat Carol Liu for her seat in the State Senate, according to an informed source. Although Liu's district does not currently include Monrovia, with redistricting, it will.


According to the source, who prefers to remain nameless, Portantino - though he has not officially announced his candidacy - has been quite open about his intentions, attempting to secure endorsements from prominent Monrovians.


Portantino and Liu are both Democrats, and the one who wins would presumably face a Republican in the general election.


- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia PD: Domestic Violence with Child Endangerment, Senior Citizen Scam, Shorts in the Rain, Vandalism, Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for Nov. 10-16. - Brad Haugaard]
 
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 509 service events, resulting in 97 investigations.  Following are the highlighted issues and events.  To see a complete listing of crimes reported, go to http://www.crimemapping.com/map/ca/monrovia for crime mapping.
 
Domestic Violence
On November 10 at 10:36 p.m., police responded to the 100 block of South Alta Vista regarding a domestic disturbance.  The disturbance was between a male and female who have a four-year-old child together and are in the process of separating, but still live together at this time.  The male subject was upset and pushed the female out the front door and down a small flight of stairs.  When she hit the ground, she struck her head and sustained other visible injuries.  The male subject disabled all of the phones so the female could not call police.  He grabbed the small child and held her as he yelled threats to the victim, stating he would harm or kill her.  The child was traumatized by the incident.  Police arrived and arrested the suspect without further incident.  He was booked for domestic violence, criminal threats, disabling the phones, and for child endangerment. 
 
Grand Theft Auto
On November 12 at 1:01 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen in the 200 block of Los Angeles.  The vehicle was a white, 1994 Honda Civic.  The vehicle was stolen some time between 11:00 p.m. on November 11 and 1:00 a.m. on November 12.
 
Mental Evaluation
On November 12 at 4:00 a.m., an officer on patrol in the 900 block of South Mountain saw a male subject walking in the rain wearing only shorts.  The subject told officers he had not slept for three days, he had not taken his medication, and he did not know where he was or where he was going.  He was taken to a hospital, where he was held for mental evaluation.
 
Residential Burglary - Senior Citizen Scam
On November 12 at 11:24 a.m., an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 300 block of North Magnolia regarding a theft report.  The theft had occurred the day before at the home of a senior citizen couple in their late 80's.  On November 11 at 5:00 p.m., the female victim answered her door to two male, White suspects in their late 20's.  She recognized the suspects as two subjects who had come to their home a month prior, soliciting car service.  The two suspects actually did minor repair work at the home on the couple's vehicle.  The victim's husband was not home, so the suspects asked to leave their phone number.  When the victim walked to her kitchen and told them to wait while she got a pen and paper, they followed her inside, uninvited.  One suspect asked to use the restroom while the other distracted the woman, but instead of using the restroom, he went into her bedroom and stole money and all of her jewelry.  The two suspects left and the victim did not discover the theft until later that evening.  The suspects were driving a black, Ford F150 truck with chrome wheels.
 
Commercial Burglary
On November 12 at 11:46 a.m., police responded to a burglary that occurred in the 400 block of South Myrtle at a private business.  The business is only accessible from the rear alley and one must walk up a flight of stairs.  The suspect(s) forced a window open to gain entry and stole money and a laptop. 
 
Attempt Armed Robbery
On November 12 at 6:06 p.m., a male subject in his late 20's approached a woman in a parking lot in the 600 block of West Huntington.  The suspect displayed a black handgun and demanded the victim give him her purse.  The victim refused to give up her purse and the suspect turned and fled on foot, heading east.  The suspect is described at a male Hispanic, wearing blue jeans and a grey shirt with a graphic design on the shoulder.  Officers responded and conducted an area search for the suspect, but were not able to locate him.  There was no harm to the victim and no loss.
 
Vehicle Burglary
On November 14 at 7:45 p.m., police responded to the report of a window-smash vehicle burglary that occurred in a business parking lot in the 700 block of East Huntington.  The crime occurred between 6:20 and 7:35 p.m.  There was no loss.  Investigation continuing.
 
Vehicle Burglary
On November 14 at 10:01 p.m., dispatch received a call reporting a window-smash vehicle burglary that occurred in a business parking lot in the 500 block of West Huntington.  The crime occurred between 6:00 and 10:00 p.m.  There was no loss.  Investigation continuing.
 
Vehicle Burglary / Grand Theft Auto Recovery
On November 15 at 1:13 a.m., a 1993 Honda Accord was reported stolen from the front of a residence in the 1400 block of South Magnolia.  The crime occurred between 9:30 p.m. and 1:00 a.m.  The vehicle was found and recovered a short distance away.  The GPS system and a toolbox had been stolen from the vehicle.  Investigation continuing.
 
Possession of Narcotics / Possession of Narcotics Paraphernalia - Suspect Arrested
On November 16 at 7:05 p.m., police received a call reporting a suspicious vehicle parked at Greystone and Ivy.  Officers arrived and found the male occupant was preparing to ingest heroin.  He was arrested for possession of narcotics and narcotics paraphernalia and taken into custody.
 
Serial Vandalism - Suspects Arrested
On November 16 at 8:09 p.m., police received a call reporting a vandalism incident that had just occurred in the 300 block of East Colorado.  Two male suspects were seen "tagging" a wall and fleeing on foot.  Officers arrived and began a search of the area.  A witness told an officer the suspects ran through an apartment complex.  Officers entered the complex and were seen by the suspects, who immediately attempted to run away.  They were detained quickly and positively identified by the witness.  Through investigation, it was learned that these two suspects are responsible for an extensive series of recent vandalism.  The suspects each confessed to other crimes and led officers to additional unreported vandalisms.  Also discovered during the investigation, were the identities of two previously unknown suspects.  These two have also been responsible for many recent vandalism incidents.  The suspects, a male juvenile and male adult, were booked for vandalism.  The juvenile was cited and released to his mother.  The adult was booked for felony vandalism and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.  Other charges are pending on all four suspects.

Monrovia's AeroVironment on Cover of Time | Murder Trial | Huff 'Job Champ'

~ Monrovia's AeroVironment makes the cover of Time magazine for its hummingdrone: http://goo.gl/U3UCX


~ Opening statements in trial of Brian Lee Randone, charged with killing Monrovia woman. Prosecution: http://goo.gl/jFemB - Defense: http://goo.gl/GrTUY


~ Monrovia's state senator, Bob Huff, named "job champion." http://goo.gl/vwTuI


- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Medical Device Company May Sell in Europe

Monrovia's STAAR Surgical has received permission to sell its inside-the-eye lens in Europe. http://goo.gl/lHDuI
 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Christmas Tree Lighting and Home Decorating Contest

~ The annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony will take place on Thursday, Dec. 1, at 6 p.m. in Library Park, followed by the holiday parade - "Santa, Snowmen and Song" - at 7 p.m.
 
~ There will also be a holiday home decorating contest. Details here ( http://goo.gl/jx3ID ), at the bottom of the page, and here is the application form: http://goo.gl/LJq5I
 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's State Senator Backs Off High-Speed Rail

State Senator Bob Huff, who represents Monrovia, said he likes high-speed rail in concept, but with details of the LA-to-San Francisco plan now public, "I can no longer support this project as it is now framed." He said it costs too much ($98.5 billion), would not be finished until 2033, and early construction would be "far away from the state’s major population centers." He says the project needs to be scaled back or modified: http://goo.gl/0q13g
 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia CEO is Entrepreneur of Year | Paintings by Cynthia Britain | Monrovia Hummingbird Wins Award

~ The CEO of Monrovia's Green Dot, Steve Streit, has been named Entrepreneur of the Year in the Financial Services sector by Ernst & Young. http://goo.gl/CbQmK
 
~ Works by oil painter Cynthia Britain now on display at Segil Fine Art, 110 W. Lime. Here's an article about her in American Art Collector Magazine: http://goo.gl/P88Ux
 
~ AeroVironment's nano hummingbird drone wins one of Popular Science's "Best of What's New" awards ( http://goo.gl/ITTWK ). And here's a write-up in Patch: http://goo.gl/U1g6h

- Brad Haugaard

The New Monrovia High School

At the ribbon-cutting tonight for the refurbished Monrovia High School, Board of Education President Ed Gililland called it "a world-class school for world-class students."Pictures show the computer lab in the new science building (that's Mayor Mary Ann Lutz looking on), the refurbished cafeteria, and the refurbished auditorium.

- Brad Haugaard




Portantino Says: I Told You So - Education is at Risk | Duarte City Council to Promote Monrovia

~ In a press release, Assemblymember Anthony Portantino, who represents part of Monrovia, writes that: "Today’s numbers from the well-respected Legislative Analyst’s Office confirm what I feared all along: education funding is at risk.  Back in June, the budget was hastily adopted without vetting the impact on our students and schools.  I thought then and feel the same way now, that it was more important to get the budget right than fast.  Unfortunately, fast was the order of the day and I voted 'no'. I am hopeful that future projections are better but I am quite concerned that the risks facing our schools are too great to take without comprehensive public review."


UPDATE: From the other side of the aisle, State Senator Bob Huff, who represents Monrovia, said the budget shortfall "doesn’t come as a surprise to Senate Republicans." He said "Democrats are already seeking to sidestep the 'trigger reductions' they voted for and calling for new tax increases instead." http://goo.gl/WzjZf


~ The Duarte City Council will soon be wearing Monrovia t-shirts for a lunch or dinner engagement. (Our neighboring city council lost a friendly wager with the Monrovia City Council.) http://goo.gl/G95cY


- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Cross Country Qualifier | Headhunter Firm to Find New City Manager

~ Max Armenta is Monrovia High's first Cross Country CIF Prelims qualifier in the last 10 years.  He finished the course in 15:31.0, a personal record that placed him 34th out of 107 runners. http://goo.gl/ba4Su
 
~ The Monrovia City Council has selected the headhunter company, Bob Murray & Associates, to find a city manager to replace Scott Ochoa, who will be city manager in Glendale. http://goo.gl/o3YbJ
 
- Brad Haugaard

First Monrovia New Year's Eve Party

A band, a ball drop, beer and wine, at the First Annual New Year's Eve Party on Myrtle Avenue. http://goo.gl/Nel9q
 
- Brad Haugaard

Gold Line Bridge - Possible Partial Freeway Closures



Working on the Gold Line freeway bridge abutments.

Construction on the Gold Line bridge near Santa Anita Avenue may mean partial closures of the eastbound 210 between now and Nov. 26 (except for sure not on Nov. 24 and 25), between 10 p.m. and 1 p.m. the following day. The crew will be working on the east abutment (where the bridge hits ground), including digging 18 foundation holes. They may also get some work done on the west abutment and perhaps start pouring concrete for the three main columns.
- Brad Haugaard (from Gold Line press release)



Support Monrovia's Wild Rose School at Souplantation

Help Wild Rose Elementary by having dinner at the Arcadia Souplantation on Tuesday, Nov. 15, from 5-8 p.m. 20% of sales go to Wild Rose, but you gotta present this coupon: http://goo.gl/Esm6t
- Brad Haugaard

Cutting Down Monrovia Eucalyptus Trees | Holiday Parade | Reducing Pollution | Green Dot Emergency Prep

~ Fire crews from LA County Fire Camp 19 have been cutting down eucalyptus trees in Ruby Canyon, next to Monrovia homes. Monrovia Fire Department reports the trees "are notorious for their fire behavior, present a potential obstruction to flood control efforts, and having escaped cultivation and aggressively spread, they threatened to do significant damage to the diverse natural canyon wildlife habitat."
 
~ Monrovia's Holiday Parade is scheduled for Thursday, Dec, 1, starting with a tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. in Library Park. The parade begins at 7 p.m. at the corner of Myrtle and Chestnut Avenues, traveling north and ending at Myrtle and Palm. The parade is sponsored by Monrovia's Old Town merchants.
 
~ The City of Monrovia has again met the South Coast Air Quality Management District's requirement to reduce pollution caused by employee commuting. The weekly city manager's report says: "Monrovia has continuously exceeded its AVR [average vehicle ridership] target by a comfortable margin."
 
~ Seventeen Green Dot employees are currently halfway through Monrovia Fire Department emergency response training and will be graduating by the end of November.
 
 
- Brad Haugaard

Star-News Cuts Paper Size

The Pasadena Star-News, which covers Monrovia, has announced that for its paper edition it will discontinue its weekly television listings on Nov. 27, instead offering subscribers a subscription to TV Weekly magazine "at a highly discounted rate off the cover price."

OPINION: Sad... again. A little while ago the Star-News dropped its Saturday editorial page, now it is dropping TV listings (which will save it from having to print four pages). This does not seem to be going in the right direction.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Football | Profile of Green Dot CEO | Trial Starts for Killing of Monrovia Woman | Maryknoll Boutique

~ A look at the CIF-SS Mid-Valley Division football playoffs. http://goo.gl/EowKe
 
~ Profile of Steven W. Streit, founder and CEO of Monrovia's Green Dot. http://goo.gl/gcvru
 
~ Trial begins for suspect in slaying of Monrovia woman, Felicia Lee. http://goo.gl/7WIQt
 
~ Maryknoll Guild annual brunch and boutique. http://goo.gl/MP88p
 
- Brad Haugaard

Donate a Turkey for Free to Monrovia's Unity Center

Albertsons is offering a "buy one turkey and get another one free" deal. And if you don't need two turkeys, you can have the market donate the second turkey to Foothill Unity Center to give to a local, needy family. http://goo.gl/VijeN
 
- Brad Haugaard

Portantino vs. Liu?

Will Anthony Portantino (who represents part of Monrovia in the state Assembly) challenge State Senator Carol Liu? http://goo.gl/TXV55
 
- Brad Haugaard

How to Help Monrovia's Foothill Unity Center

A cheat sheet for how you can help Monrovia's Foothill Unity Center for the Thanksgiving and Christmas season. http://goo.gl/UKXnj
 
- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Church's Chicken


I noticed that the KFC on Foothill in Arcadia is gone, so thought I'd check out an alternative, Church's Chicken on Huntington at Shamrock. Got a two-piece spicy. Crunchy breading and quite tasty. Maybe not super healthy, but tasty.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Veterans Day Celebration


Veterans Day celebration in Library Park. Including a Nisei Congressional Gold Medal winner from one of the very-highly decorated ethnic Japanese (Nisei) units that fought in Europe during World War Two. Also, the unveiling of a plaque honoring Korean War vets.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Wins Rio Hondo Title :-)

Monrovia High defeats South Pasadena in football, 34-22, winning fifth consecutive Rio Hondo title. http://goo.gl/MgcBE
- Brad Haugaard

Will Your Street Be Paved? | Buying Radios and Computers

At its Nov. 15 meeting ( http://goo.gl/a76wy ) the Monrovia City Council will ...

~ Consider paying Copp Contracting $523,172.50 for the fiscal year 2011-2012 to do street resurfacing. Streets to be repaved:

- Walnut Ave. from Monterey Ave. to Fifth Ave. – 2,740 Linear Feet
- Sunset Place between Violet Ave. and Foothill Blvd. – 2,270 Linear Feet
- Bella Vista – 433 Linear Feet
- Stedman Place from Foothill Blvd. to Hillcrest Blvd. – 2,760 Linear Feet
- Encino Ave. from Duarte Road to south City Limits – 765 Linear Feet
- Fifth Ave. from Colorado Blvd. to Chestnut Ave. – 1,140 Linear Feet
- California Ave. from Duarte Road to Hurstview Ave. – 485 Linear Feet
- Wildrose Ave. from Canyon Blvd. to California Ave. – 430 Linear Feet

~ Consider buying portable radios and accessories from Motorola for $148,686.88, and ruggedized Panasonic mobile computers from CDCE Engineered Solutions for $64,935.13, and paying Day Wireless $7,472.00 to install the lot. Mostly paid for by a grant from Uncle Sam. http://goo.gl/V1TbI

- Brad Haugaard

New Monrovia City Manager by May 2012?

Regarding City Manager Scott Ochoa's own replacement (he's moving on to Glendale), Ochoa estimates that if Monrovia hops on it, "it is conceivable that the new city manager could begin in Monrovia as early as May 1, 2012." He adds: "A worst case scenario might be a July 1, 2012, start date." Also, he says it could cost up to $27,000 for a headhunter firm, plus $60,000 to $90,000 (through next May) to pay for an interim city manager. All of it paid for by not having to pay him. http://goo.gl/VsHCu
 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia PD: Slipping From the Second Story | Lightless Bike to Drug Bust | Grand Thefts

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for Nov. 3-9. - Brad Haugaard]
 
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 504 service events, resulting in 107 investigations.  Following are the highlighted issues and events.   To see a complete listing of crimes reported, go to http://www.crimemapping.com/map/ca/monrovia for crime mapping.

 
Arson - Suspects Arrested
On November 3 at 3:43 p.m., police received a call reporting smoke coming from the railroad tracks at Monterey Avenue.  An animal control officer was near the tracks and saw three juveniles leaving the tracks near the smoke.  Officers responded and were able to detain the three juveniles.  During the investigation, the officers were able to determine that the juveniles not only set this fire, but were also responsible for four previous fires set on the tracks over the past several weeks.  The juveniles were brought to the station and Juvenile Hall was notified.  Juvenile Hall requested the juveniles be cited and released. 
 
Grand Theft Auto - Suspects Arrested
On November 4 at 12:41 a.m., an officer observed a suspicious vehicle eastbound in the 500 block of West Huntington.  A license plate check revealed the vehicle was stolen.  The officer stopped the vehicle in the 100 block of East Evergreen and detained four occupants.  The vehicle was part of a sting operation through the California Highway Patrol's Taskforce for Regional Auto-theft Prevention (TRAP).  CHP was notified and responded to the scene.  CHP TRAP officers took the suspect into custody and stored the vehicle.  Two other occupants were arrested, one for a misdemeanor traffic warrant and the other for a no-bail warrant out of Monrovia.  The fourth person complained of chest pain and was taken to a hospital.
 
Driving Under the Influence / Traffic Collision - Suspect Arrested
On November 4 at 2:28 a.m., officers responded to the 1800 block of Ninth Avenue regarding a traffic collision.  A driver hit a parked vehicle.  The driver was determined to be intoxicated and was arrested for driving under the influence.
 
Medical Assist
On November 4 at 7:45 p.m., a woman was sitting on the window sill of her second floor apartment in the 400 block of East Foothill and fell from the window onto the patio below.  When officers and paramedics arrived, she was conscious and was able to tell the officers she had not been pushed; she simply lost her balance and fell.  Neighbors were questioned and said they did not hear any disturbance from the apartment.  At this time, no foul play or crime is suspected.
 
Hit & Run on Private Property
On November 5 at 3:51 a.m., officers responded to the 100 block of East Huntington regarding a hit and run collision.  An employee who works night hours came out to his car to find it had been struck and shoved up onto the walkway from the parking lot area. He did not know when the incident occurred and no suspects were observed.  There was white paint transfer found on the car.  Apparently, the suspect cut through the parking lot and struck the car, then fled the scene.  An area check was conducted, but the suspect vehicle was not located.
 
Drug Activity / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia - Suspect Arrested
On November 5 at 10:29 p.m., an officer stopped a bicyclist for not having lighting equipment at night.  During the contact, the bicyclist admitted to having drugs and a pipe on his person.  The suspect was patted down and found to be in possession of methamphetamine and a drug pipe. The suspect was arrested.
 
California Highway Patrol Activity in Monrovia / Driving Under the Influence /   Pursuit - Suspect Arrested
On November 6 at 8:29 p.m., the CHP was involved in a pursuit of a suspected drunk driver.  The suspect exited the 210 Freeway at Myrtle and the pursuit eventually terminated in an alley behind a bar in the 1500 block of South Myrtle.  The suspect fled on foot, but was apprehended by CHP Officers in the 100 block of East Pomona.  The CHP did not request Monrovia Police Department's assistance during this incident.
 
Driving Under the Influence - Suspect Arrested
November 6 at 10:11 p.m., an officer on patrol observed an intoxicated subject behind the wheel of a stopped vehicle that was blocking the roadway in the 500 block of West Chestnut.  The engine was running and the driver told the officer he had driven from El Monte.  The officer arrested the driver for driving under the influence.  The suspect's criminal history revealed he had three other DUI arrests within a 10-year period.  The suspect was charged with felony driving under the influence.
 
September 29, 2011, Vehicle Burglary - Suspect Arrested
On November 7, an officer on patrol in the 600 block of East Huntington recognized a suspect wanted for vehicle burglary.  The suspect was with two other subjects.  The officer detained the subjects and subsequently arrested the wanted suspect.  The vehicle burglary occurred on September 29, 2011, at an apartment complex parking structure in the 100 block of West Colorado.  Fingerprints were lifted at the scene from the vehicle and a suspect was identified.  The detective assigned to the case notified patrol of the suspect's identification and the suspect was located on November 7.
 
Vehicle Burglary
On November 9 at 5:17 a.m., a caller reported his vehicle broken into overnight.  The vehicle was parked in a parking lot in the 700 block of West Huntington.  The vehicle had been locked and secured. 
 
Petty Theft from a Vehicle
On November 9 at 8:11 a.m., an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 1300 block of South Primrose regarding a theft from a vehicle.  The victim reported that he parked his vehicle in his driveway at approximately 4:00 p.m.  He left the vehicle unlocked and the windows were cracked about 2 inches on both sides.  Overnight, the suspect(s) entered the vehicle and took his wallet, which was left in the driver side compartment. 
 
Graffiti Vandalism
On the morning of November 9, three locations called to report vandalism that had occurred overnight.  The locations had been vandalized with similar graffiti.  The vandalism occurred in the 500 block of Fallen Leaf, 600 block of South Shamrock and the 100 block of East Chestnut.  Investigation continuing. 
 
Grand Theft Auto Recovery
On November 9 at 4:42 p.m., an officer drove by a suspicious vehicle parked in the 300 block of Genoa.  He conducted a DMV check on the vehicle's plate and it returned as stolen out of Sacramento on November 6, 2011.  The vehicle was recovered.
 
Driving Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance - Suspect Arrested
On November 9 at 5:35 p.m., a caller reported a subject who appeared to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs trying to start his vehicle at Myrtle and Foothill.  A second caller reported the subject drove off east in his vehicle.  Officers responded, located the vehicle and stopped it east of Myrtle.  The investigation revealed the subject was under the influence of a controlled substance and he was arrested and taken into custody.
 
Grand Theft Auto
On November 9 at 8:33 p.m., a 2005, 4-door, white Chevy Silverado was reported stolen from the 800 block of Bonita.  The crime occurred between 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
 
Grand Theft Auto
On November 9 at 8:50 p.m., a 2000, white Honda Civic was reported stolen from the 500 block of West Huntington.  At 10:40 p.m., an officer located the vehicle parked in the 600 block of West Huntington.  The vehicle's engine was cold when it was found.  It appeared the suspect(s) took the vehicle for a joyride, ransacked it, stole a toolbox and the vehicle's registration, and abandoned the vehicle.

New Monrovia Restaurant | Cheap Car Charger

~ Cafe LuMar plans to open on East Colorado in December, serving "homemade baked goods, crepes, sandwiches, and salads." And, "Croatian imported goods." http://goo.gl/4uypL


~ Nissan and Sumitomo plan to use Monrovia's AeroVironment to bring a low-cost (starting at $9,900) electric car charger to the U.S. market.  AeroVironment will be the wholesale and retail distributor, and the preferred installer. http://goo.gl/wLXc4


- Brad Haugaard

Christmas on Myrtle


Christmas decorations are going up on Myrtle.

- Brad Haugaard

Comment on Monrovia Elections | The Unknown Film | Gold Line Video

~ Comment on the School Board Election


A word for the winners: Congratulations!


Several words for the rest: Be not discouraged! I think Covarrubias and Williams, in particular, were strong, passionate candidates, but you guys were up against two incumbents on a board that has done a truly outstanding job, and against a generally popular former mayor. It could hardly have been a tougher battle, but you are good and there will other opportunities in the future. Don't give up.


~ Come to the Library for a film, the title of which you can only find out by calling the library. http://goo.gl/9eEZq


~ A 15-minute video to learn about the transformation that has occurred around the Phase 1 Gold Line stations, as well as what is being planned around the future stations. http://goo.gl/9CwcF


- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Election Results: Hammond, Wong, Gililland, and Montgomery

11:06 - Joanne Montgomery retains her seat on the Citrus College Board of Trustees.

11:04 - Rob Hammond, incumbent Bryan Wong and incumbent Ed Gililland are the new Monrovia School Board members.

10:45 - Hammond still on top, with Wong switching places with Gililland for second place, and Gililland taking third. But look how close these two are. A mere four votes difference.

9:56 - It seems clear Hammond's long history in city government, and service as mayor, is paying off for him. He's even ahead of the incumbents.

9:54 - Hammond, Gililland and Wong still strongly ahead, as is Montgomery for Citrus College Board.

9:37 - Pretty ridiculous. Still no new numbers.

8:56 - Early voting, but still, I'm surprised at McCarthy's strength. I'd have thought Williams would be ahead of him. Crabtree very low. It didn't seem he put a huge amount of effort into his campaign.

Early voting: Hammond, Gililland, Wong winning. Montgomery ahead for Citrus College.

I'll be updating this page thoughout the evening. Reload the page occasionally to see the latest, or if I'm not fast enough for you, click on the source links below.

Monrovia Board of Education (top three vote-getters win)
Lechuga Covarrubias: 849
David D Crabtree: 230
Ed Gililland: 1,402 
Rob Hammond: 1,444
Ed McCarthy: 599
Terrence Williams 816
Bryan J Wong: 1,411

Precincts: 18 of 18 reporting
Source: http://goo.gl/UF7dp

Citrus Community College Board
Bruce A Carter: 1,070
Joanne Montgomery: 1,704

Precincts: 17 of 17 reporting
Source: http://goo.gl/I1WmG

- Brad Haugaard

Vets Day in Monrovia | Prayer Breakfast | Engineers Like Huff

~ Monrovia's annual Veterans Day commemoration will take place at 11 a.m. on Friday, November 11, at the Armed Services Memorial in front of the Monrovia Public Library in Library Park. The public is invited.
 
~ Forty-Sixth Annual Mayor's Prayer Breakfast, "Achieving Your Life's Dreams," Friday, Nov. 18, 2011 at 8 a.m. Speaker is Damon Colaluca of the Santa Anita Family YMCA. Details: http://goo.gl/JOqKQ
 
~ Senator Bob Huff (who represents Monrovia) has been named Legislator of the Year by the American Council of Engineering Companies. http://goo.gl/ng9bT
 
- Brad Haugaard

Harley Dogs (not Hogs) in Old Monrovia, Etc.

At the link, check out the doggy Harley commercial (now airing) featuring Old Town Monrovia. Also, details on other filming in Monrovia. http://goo.gl/Uv0uI
 
- Brad Haugaard

Foothills Unity Center Executive Director Whitenack Retiring

Foothills Unity Center Executive Director Joan E. Whitenack has announced her retirement, according to the organization's newsletter.

The newsletter article says: "She has been instrumental in generating millions of dollars of foundation grants for the Center, expanded operations to serve a client base that grew from 300 to over 4,600 families, and increasing food distribution from 50,000 to 4,230,000 pounds a year. Facilities have expanded dramatically, from a single 900 square foot location to three sites in Monrovia and Pasadena."

Opinion: She's excellent and will be a tough one to replace.
 
- Brad Haugaard

The Other Monrovia Has An Election Today, Too

Monrovia, California, isn't the only Monrovia having an election today. Monrovia, Liberia, is having a presidential run-off. http://goo.gl/8Iz9F

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Election Today

Vote today for Monrovia School Board  (top three vote-getters win) and Citrus College Board (one candidate wins).
If you are unsure of where to vote, check here: http://www.lavote.net/LOCATOR/
Monrovia School Board Candidates:
Janeane Lechuga Covarrubias
David Dale Crabtree
Ed Gililland
Rob Hammond
Ed McCarthy
Terrence G. Williams
Bryan J. Wong
Citrus College Board of Trustees:
Bruce Carter
Joanne Montgomery
- Brad Haugaard


No Monrovia Kidnapping - a Hoax

The story of the attempted kidnapping of a Monrovia boy was a 'hoax.' Suspect released. http://goo.gl/nWfu3

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Restaurant Goes Green

A video report on how Monrovia restaurant Something Healthy - which has mighty tasty sandwiches, by the way - is going green. With host Dan Bell, of the City Manager's office.

 
Opinion: Ya know, I'm not sure what the big attraction is to hosting video on Vimeo (as is this video). YouTube works fine for me but all Vimeo ever does  is jerk and stall. I hope everybody else gets better results with it.
 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Chamber Honors Citizens

The Monrovia Chamber of Commerce has announced the winners of three awards. They are:


~ The Iris Award, Citizen of the Year will be presented to Karen Sutherland

~ The Monroe Award for Business Person of the Year will be presented to Rutilio Castrellon, Rudy's Mexican Food.

~ The Dick Lord Award for outstanding contributions to the Chamber will be presented to Gloria Huss, Monrovia Floral. 




- Brad Haugaard

Arrest in Monrovia Almost-Kidnapping Case

Police have made an arrest in the Monrovia attempted kidnapping case. http://goo.gl/8qtDP and  http://goo.gl/hZZ4Z and http://goo.gl/yDsOh

Monrovia Fire Department: Rescues from Vehicles and Canyon Park

Monrovia Fire Department responded to 76 emergency calls between Oct. 25, 2011 and Nov. 1 Here are some:

Traffic Collision - At 9:45 a.m. on October 29 Monrovia fire units responded to a traffic collision with victims trapped. The incident was at Foothill and Alta Vista with three vehicles involved. Upon arrival, fire personnel determined that there was one patient with minor injuries and a second patient trapped in a vehicle with possible life threatening injuries. Fire personnel performed extrication of the trapped victim by removing the right side of the vehicle. The victim with minor injuries was transported to Arcadia Methodist Hospital for evaluation. The victim with possible life threatening injuries was transported to Huntington Memorial Hospital Trauma Center for further evaluation and treatment.

Solo Vehicle Accident - At 2:46 a.m. on October 30, Monrovia Fire Units responded to the report of a vehicle accident where the vehicle had exited the freeway with one person trapped. The accident presented a challenging extrication of the patient, since the vehicle was on its side. Monrovia Firefighters used heavy equipment to remove the roof of the vehicle to gain access to and rescue the trapped occupant. The victim was treated on the scene by Monrovia Fire Paramedics and transported to Huntington Memorial Hospital Trauma Center for further evaluation and treatment.

Canyon Park Rescue - At 9:19 a.m. on October 30, Monrovia Fire Department, assisted by Arcadia Fire, responded to a canyon rescue in Canyon Park. Engine 101, Truck 101, Patrol 101, Sq101, and ARC Engine 107 were all dispatched. The incident involved a 54-year-old female who had fallen at the base of the waterfall. Her injuries prevented her from being able to walk. Fire units treated her injuries, secured her in our rescue basket, and wheeled the patient out of the canyon by foot. The patient was stabilized and transported to Arcadia Methodist Hospital. The entire rescue was performed over a two-hour time period.
 
 
- Brad Haugaard

Photo Conversation Pieces from Monrovia Suicide?

Monrovia City Manager Scott Ochoa said people may have snapped pictures of the suicide on Myrtle Avenue last Saturday to create an "electronic conversation piece."
 
He said, "I have to presume that some earnestly felt that there was some journalistic value in taking the pictures (although most professional news outlets forswear the use of such images), yet based on the rumors that followed, it seems most others simply wanted the picture as an electronic conversation piece."
  
 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia City Manager Says Goodbye

[Statement from Monrovia City Manager Scott Ochoa in his weekly report.]

"This week, I was appointed by the Glendale City Council to become their next City Manager, effective January 3, 2012.
It is awfully bittersweet to leave this job, this organization and this community. Over the nearly 19 years that I've worked here, and over the last 7½ that I've had the privilege of being City Manager, I've gotten to know many, many amazing people. Giving and kind neighbors in the community, visionary Mayors and City Councilmembers, and dedicated and expert professional staff and employees - all of these folks comprise a city that is, pound-for-pound, one of the best in the state.
 
"Whether it is building a new library, planning the redevelopment and future growth of our town, or simply making it through the Great Recession, Monrovia's can-do spirit and consistency make it a truly special place.
 
"Thank you, Monrovia, for a wonderful run."

 
- Brad Haugaard

Board of Education election endorsements of Board of Education memberAlex Zucco

Re-Elect Gililland and Wong, Elect Covarrubias to Monrovia School Board
I have had the pleasure of serving on the Monrovia School Board for the past 2 years and encourage the voters to re-elect Board President Ed Gililland and Board Member Bryan Wong. I am also supporting Janeane Covarrubias. I  believe she would be a great addition to the Board and serve our community well.
Ed and Bryan each bring strengths that none of the other candidates offer; experience in school finances at the local, State and Federal levels. They also work through our many existing community partnerships, maintain a healthy cooperative relationship with all of our employee associations and show a deep understanding of how steady improvement in instruction and community involvement has lead to continued growth in Monrovia Schools. As we  enter 2012 and face the possibility of “trigger cuts” that could wreak havoc on our education community, we will have an even greater need for Ed and Bryan’s experience in navigating the uncertain future thoughtfully.
Ms. Covarrubias would bring her strong dedication to seeing that all of our students are challenged and parents are engaged. She brings a new perspective through her own experience in both private and public education and has good ideas for easing the transition to public. While the Monrovia Schools and community have formed many award-winning partnerships, having a new voice and resource for bringing new partners into our Monrovia “family” can only work to our schools' benefit. And finally, her own personal connections to Monrovia and her community involvement with organizations like the Monrovia Latino Heritage Society, Girl Scouts and our PTAs will bring a broader, more representative look to the Board.
Monrovia Schools have continued to perform well even in this financial meltdown.  That is a testament to our staff, students and their families. Monrovia is the only school district in our area to show an INCREASE in enrollment. This clearly demonstrates that the work done in our “world class schools” by our “world class students” is not going unnoticed, nor did it happen by accident. In order to continue our excellent forward progress, we must stay on message and avoid political grand-standing, personal agendas or using our Board as a spring board to higher State office. Now is the time to stay vigilant and ensure the good work continues to happen and send good people to represent Monrovia Schools.
Vote November 8th for Ed Gililland, Bryan Wong and Janeane Covarrubias.
Alex Zucco
Monrovia School Board Member

Sketch of Monrovia Kidnapping Suspect

Here is a sketch of the guy suspected in an attempted kidnapping in Monrovia. http://goo.gl/AensB
 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Senator Honored by Lawsuit Abuse Group

State Senator Bob Huff, who represents Monrovia, has been recognized as "Legislator of the Year" by Citizens Against Lawsuit Abuse. http://goo.gl/830DI
 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Wildcats Over Temple City :-)

Monrovia over Temple City in football, 45-0. http://goo.gl/dSEsv
 
- Brad Haugaard

Attempted Kidnapping of Boy in Monrovia

Attempted kidnapping of 6-year-old boy reported. http://goo.gl/iCQgS and http://goo.gl/pfzq4



- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia School Board: Should State Make It Easier for Schools to RaiseTaxes?

At its Nov. 9 meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/JGmKs ), the Monrovia School Board will:

~ Consider whether to support a proposed state senate constitutional amendment that would allow school districts to raise parcel taxes by a 55 percent majority rather than the current two-thirds majority. http://goo.gl/ert5O

~ Discuss pushing the state to stop cutting school funding, to provide a less-volatile funding source ("revisit Proposition 13 and the property tax arena"), give districts maximum local control, and pony up years of money the state already owes districts. http://goo.gl/DIwGD

~ Consider refinancing a loan, bringing the interest rate from 5.3 down to 3.3 percent and saving $380,000. http://goo.gl/lzZA9

~ Consider creating two new positions, a Campus Supervisor job ( http://goo.gl/sMmhT ), which will replace a discontinued job and save the district $3,400 a year, and an "Instructional Assistant-Special Education" ( http://goo.gl/c7uEs ) which will be paid for by an outside funding source.
- Brad Haugaard



Man Who Shot Himself on Myrtle Identified

The man who shot himself in front of Library Park last week was 45-year-old Sue Chee Ng, of Allen, Texas. http://goo.gl/yCfmm
 
- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at The Flame Broiler


Tried the new Flame Broiler (next to Sprouts on Huntington). It is a rice bowl type restaurant. New, clean, and very fast. I got the chicken bowl, which was fine. Good place especially if you are in a hurry.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Unity Center Has Most Clients Ever, Needs Turkeys | McCarthy to USC?

~ Monrovia's Foothill Unity Center reports that while "we are barely into November, and we're on track to register the most client families ever for our Thanksgiving distribution. That has us talking turkeys. We're going to need more of those than ever before, too. (Or gift cards for them.) Our freezers in Monrovia and Pasadena are waiting. Call Joan at (626) 358-3486. http://goo.gl/pTfnL
 
~ USC really wants to get Monrovia defensive tackle Ellis McCarthy ( http://goo.gl/HEC70 ) and Monrovia coach Ryan Maddox would like to see them get him ( http://goo.gl/k4dO0 ).
  
- Brad Haugaard

SGV Tribune Endorsements for Monrovia Races

The San Gabriel Valley Tribune is endorsing:

~ Bruce Carter for Citrus College Board of Trustees. 

~ Ed Gililland, Terrence Williams and Bryan Wong for Monrovia School Board.

 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia is Most Business Friendly Small City in LA County

Monrovia has won the Most Business-Friendly City in LA County in the under-60,000 population category in the LA County Economic Development Corporation's 16th Annual Eddy Awards ceremony. http://goo.gl/1rAXH


The award was presented at a ceremony tonight.


Monrovia was up against four other finalists: Commerce, Duarte, Gardena and La Mirada.


Criteria LAEDC considered in selecting the winner were:


~ Demonstrated commitment to economic development as a priority

~ Excellence in programs and services designed to facilitate business entry, expansion, and retention

~ Economic development activity over the past three years

~ Competitive business tax rates and fee structures

~ Availability of economic incentives

~ Effective communication with and about business clients


- Brad Haugaard

Tree Festival to Support Monrovia Boys & Girls Club

A new charitable event, The Festival of Trees, will support Monrovia's Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills. The event, a long-time tradition in communities throughout the United States, will feature a display of Christmas trees and wreaths donated by individual and corporate sponsors, and decorated by local florists and artisans. Full-sized, fully-decorated trees, as well as wreaths and table-top trees, will be available through raffle tickets and a silent auction. Trees will be delivered the following day to the winners’ homes. Pasadena florist, Jacob Maarse, will decorate the grand prize tree. The event, also featuring the Citrus College Singers, dining and dancing, will be held from 6-10 p.m. on Dec. 3 at the Annandale Golf Club in Pasadena. For tickets or more information, call: 626-305-5353 or email foothillsfestivaloftrees@gmail.com.
 
- Brad Haugaard (from press release)

Two Monrovia Candidates for Citrus College Board of Trustees

In addition to the three seats open for the Monrovia School Board, there is also a contest for who will be the next Citrus Community College District trustee for area 5 (that's us). The choices are Bruce Carter, retired college professor, and Joanne Montgomery, the incumbent. Here are their websites:
Bruce Carter: http://goo.gl/pFlAZ
Joanne Montgomery: http://goo.gl/6MO3a

Remember, the election is this coming Tuesday, Nov. 8.
- Brad Haugaard

Moving a Drain for Gold Line | Burnett & Son | Miyachi Unitek



Moving a storm drain.

~ Moving a storm drain pipe and demolishing the old bridge's foundation to put in the abutments for the new Gold Line bridge near Santa Anita Avenue.

~ Burnett & Son Meat Co. is purchasing new x-ray packaging and contaminant detection systems. http://goo.gl/UHFGp

~ Spot-welding and music ministry. Jack Lantz of Monrovia's Miyachi Unitek. http://goo.gl/BkkLD

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia PD: Playing With Fire, Two Vehicle Roll-Overs, Myrtle Suicide, Pumpkin Throwing, Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for Oct. 27-Nov. 2. - Brad Haugaard]
 
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 502 service events, resulting in 96 investigations.  Following are the highlighted issues and events.  To see a complete listing of crimes reported, go to crime mapping at http://www.crimemapping.com/map/ca/monrovia.
 
Trespassing - Suspect Arrested
On October 27 at 11:24 a.m., a 19-year-old male subject was placing pizza advertisements on the front door of houses when he came across an unlocked door in the 200 block of Sunset.  He decided to enter the home.  He was found loitering in the kitchen by the housemaid, and when discovered, he ran out of the house and out of sight.  Police responded and he was apprehended on the next street over, continuing his work.  He was placed under private person's arrest for trespassing.
 
Fire
On October 27 at 3:40 p.m., a fire was reported on the railroad tracks behind the 700 block of Montana.  Officers responded and discovered a cloth towel on fire.  They put out the fire.  Witnesses saw two junior-high-school-aged, male subjects, leaving the area of the tracks, walking west along the tracks out of sight.  Both had skateboards.  It is unknown if they were the subjects who started the fire.  Officers searched the area, but did not locate any suspects.
 
Attempt Burglary
On October 27 at 6:16 p.m., police were dispatched to a residence in the 200 block of North Myrtle.  The victim estimates the suspect attempted to enter the property between 8:15 a.m. and 5:35 p.m. on October 27.  A rear window screen was cut, allowing access to the door handle.  There was no loss.  The suspect may have been scared off prior to completing the burglary.  Investigation continuing.  
 
Residential Burglary
On October 27 at 7:19 p.m., an officer responded to the 500 block of East Olive regarding a burglary report.  The victim saw that her jewelry box appeared to be tampered with earlier in the week, but due to being in a rush, did not investigate further.  She later discovered that five gold rings and a bottle of Brandy were missing.  There was no forced entry or evidence discovered.  Investigation continuing.
 
Warrant / Gang Injunction Service - Suspect Arrested
On October 28 at 5:39 p.m., Monrovia Police Department received a call from San Gabriel Police Department advising they had a female in custody for a no-bail warrant out of Monrovia.  The female is a documented gang member named in the gang injunction, but had not been served.  Her warrant was for felony vandalism she had committed in the City of Monrovia.  An officer responded and served her the gang injunction papers and took her into custody for the warrant.  She was transported to the Monrovia Police Department jail.
 
Driving Under the Influence / Traffic Collision - Suspect Arrested
On October 28 at 10:02 p.m., an adult, male subject left a World Series party on Beechwood and collided with a parked vehicle; both vehicles were heavily damaged.  Police responded to the scene and the driver was determined to be driving under the influence.  He was arrested and taken into custody.
 
Traffic Collision
On October 29 at 4:57 a.m., police received the report of a traffic collision with a vehicle rolled over at Myrtle and Huntington.  A driver had grown impatient waiting at the traffic light and drove north on Myrtle to make a u-turn.  The driver failed to see an approaching vehicle and struck it.  The driver of the second vehicle lost control and the vehicle rolled over. Injuries were complaint of pain only and one person was transported to a hospital by paramedics.
 
Domestic Dispute / Suicide
On October 29 at approximately 12:01 p.m., officers responded to a disturbance in the 300 block of South Myrtle.  When officers arrived, they found a man holding a woman at gunpoint.  Officers immediately confronted the male suspect and ordered him to put the gun down.  The suspect then turned the gun on himself and took his own life.  The investigation revealed that the suspect was the woman's ex-husband and they had one child together.  The suspect had followed his ex-wife and child and had confronted them where the incident occurred.  The woman and child were not injured.  The investigation is continuing and is being conducted by the Monrovia Police Department Detective Bureau.
 
Outside Assist - California Highway Patrol
On October 29, a caller reported a drunk driver on the 210 Freeway, striking walls with his vehicle and driving on the rim of one tire.  Another caller then reported a traffic collision with the vehicle rolled over in the area of Myrtle and the 210 Freeway.  The driver had exited the freeway at Myrtle, striking the cement construction barricades.  He lost control of his vehicle and went through the fence for the freeway embankment.  The vehicle struck a large light standard with such impact it sent the light fixture flying off the pole and bent the pole severely.  The driver was found unconscious trapped inside his vehicle.  Monrovia Fire Department personnel responded and extracted the driver by cutting off the top of the car.  The subject was taken to a hospital by ambulance.  
 
Felony Vandalism
On October 30 at 2:53 a.m., officers were dispatched to the area of Magnolia and Genoa regarding a subject that was using a realty sign post to vandalize two cars.  On arrival, the officers found the suspect had fled.  Two vehicles parked on the street were heavily damaged.  A search was conducted for the suspect, but he was not located.  Investigation continuing.
 
Vandalism
On October 31 at 7:32 a.m., a school district employee called to report graffiti on their warehouse in the 400 block of Almond.  An officer responded and located the graffiti on the warehouse east facing wall and on a small retaining wall.  The graffiti is gang related and was written in black spray paint.  Investigation continuing.
 
Vandalism
On October 31 at 9:16 a.m., an officer on patrol in the 1200 block of South California was flagged down by a resident.  The resident reported that the north facing wall of a house had been vandalized with graffiti.  The graffiti is gang related and was written in green spray paint.  Investigation continuing.
 
Vandalism - Suspect Arrested
On October 31 at 9:45 a.m., a witness called police to report a male subject vandalizing a stop sign at Ivy and Walnut with yellow paint.  The witness stayed on the phone and helped direct police to the suspect's location, and the suspect was detained.  The subject was positively identified by the witness and arrested.  The reporting party was notified that they would be eligible for Monrovia Police Department's Stop Graffiti Bounty Program for reporting the incident that led to an arrest. 
 
Vandalism / Petty Theft / Curfew / Trespassing - Suspect Arrested
On November 1 at 2:10 a.m., officers responded to a call of three subjects throwing pumpkins in the 200 block of North Encinitas.  Officers discovered pumpkins broken up on several streets in the area, but no suspects were located.  At 3:33 a.m., a caller reported hearing someone throwing pumpkins in the area again.  Officers arrived and located a subject dressed in all black.  When officers attempted to detain him, he fled the area, jumping fences.  The 17-year-old male subject was eventually detained.  There were no other suspects located.  The suspect was arrested for the above listed charges.  He was eventually cited out and released to his mother.
 
Grand Theft Auto
On November 1 at 7:30 a.m., an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 800 block of West Duarte regarding the report of a stolen vehicle.  The victim parked his vehicle in his assigned carport stall and locked it.  Sometime between 2:00 and 4:00 a.m., the vehicle was stolen.  The vehicle is a black, 1995 Nissan Maxima.  All keys are accounted for.  Investigation continuing.
 
Vehicle Burglary
On November 1 at 7:59 a.m., a subject from the same complex in the above incident approached the officer and reported that someone had broken into his vehicle.  This vehicle was parked across from where the stolen vehicle had been parked.  The vehicle was found with the trunk ajar and the two front doors open.  The loss was undetermined.  Investigation continuing.
 
Vehicle Burglary
On November 1 at 9:06 a.m., an officer responded to a residence in the 1000 block of Maurice regarding a vehicle burglary.  The victim reported that she parked her Lexus in the driveway at 6:00 p.m.  The vehicle was secured and locked.  She returned to her vehicle the next morning at 9:00 a.m. and saw the front passenger window smashed. She looked in the vehicle and noted her purse was missing from the front passenger seat.  The victim did not hear or see anything during the night.  Investigation continuing.
 
Vehicle Burglary
On November 1 at 9:57 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 1500 block of Pilgrim Way.  The victim parked his vehicle on the street in front of his house at 6:00 p.m.  The vehicle was secured and locked.  The victim returned to the vehicle at 9:00 a.m. the next morning and noticed the inside had been ransacked.  The stereo, navigation system and an iPod were taken.  The victim did not hear or see anything during the night.  Investigation continuing.
 
Vehicle Burglary
On November 1 at 10:07 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of Norumbega called police to report a vehicle break-in.  The vehicle was broken into sometime between 5:00 and 7:30 a.m. in the morning.  The victim's purse was taken from the vehicle.
 
Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance - Suspect Arrested
On November 2 at 1:47 a.m., a resident in the 900 block of South Primrose called police and reported unknown subjects on his roof.  Officers responded, but no subjects were located on the roof.  The officer noticed that the reporting party was displaying signs of drug usage.  After checking the subject further, the officer determined that he was under the influence.  The subject was arrested and taken to Monrovia Police Department, where he was charge with being under the influence of a controlled substance.