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Old Style Tiles Needed to Restore Destroyed Monrovia Fountain

The historic fountain structure at the corner of Lime and Myrtle that was destroyed by a car accident is about to be rebuilt, and while much of the stonework and timbers were saved and can be reused, many old roof tiles, like these, were broken. If you happen to have a lead on where these may be obtained, contact Monrovia Historic Preservation Group President Jim Wigton, at 599-8187.

Source: Monrovia Historic Preservation Group newsletter

- Brad Haugaard

Swap Produce at Monrovia's Library Park


Picture caption: June's Collard Greens

If you are interested in sharing locally grown food, then come check out the next Produce in the Park meet-up this Saturday, July 5, from 9 AM - 11 AM by the Mark Twain bench in Library Park (on the corner of Lime & Myrtle)! To find out more about us, visit our blog ( http://goo.gl/BDxL1U ) and join emailing list ( produceinthepark@gmail.com ). See you there!

Source: press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Curb Abuse; Men and Women Fighting; Hiker Safe; Etc.

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

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Found Elderly Couple
On June 28 at 10:53 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 200 block of North Mountain regarding an elderly couple inside a truck continuously hitting and running over the curb with their vehicle for approximately 2 hours. Officers arrived and found an 87 and 85 year old married couple. The female believed she was in Oakland and the male did not know where he was. Their son was eventually located in Apple Valley however, could not drive to Monrovia to pick-up his parents. An officer drove the couple home and Adult Protective Services were notified.

Warrant – Suspect Arrest
On June 29 at 1:56 a.m., officers were dispatched to an apartment complex in the 1100 block of Royal Oaks, where a male was reportedly hitting a female in the complex's parking lot. When officers arrived they determined the two were cousins and had only been yelling at each other. A computer check revealed the male subject had an outstanding warrant. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Drunk in Public – Suspect Arrested
On June 29 at 2:28 a.m., officers responded to the rear parking lot located in the 300 block of South Myrtle regarding a male and female possibly fighting. When officers arrived, they found a male, who was so intoxicated he could hardly stand up. After investigating whether they had been fighting or not, it was determined they had not been. The male was arrested for being drunk in public.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
On June 29 at 4:45 a.m., a silver car was stopped at Maple and Primrose for a traffic violation. The officer approached the driver and could smell alcohol on the driver's breath. Field sobriety tests were conducted and it was determined the driver was driving under the influence of alcohol and was arrested.

Outside Assist /Missing Person - Located
On June 29 at 7:20 a.m., dispatch received a call regarding a missing 32 year old female who resides in Pasadena. The missing person told her family she was going hiking Saturday, June 28 at 8:00 a.m., in Monrovia with a co-worker. The family made a missing persons report with Pasadena Police Department when she didn’t return home and she wasn’t answering her cell phone. The missing person left home in her dark grey, Honda Accord. Monrovia Park Rangers were notified and a thorough search was conducted for the Honda, but it was not found. At 1:50 p.m. we received a call from the family stating the missing hiker was located, she was spending time with a friend and had left her cell phone in her vehicle.

Detective Bureau Case Follow-Up: Robbery – Suspect Sentenced
A twenty year old male who has been arrested numerous times for theft and other narcotics offenses was sentenced to five years in state prison this past week for a robbery he committed in May at the Pavilions market. This was a culmination of the collaborative effort of the patrol officers, loss prevention officers and the work of Detectives to finally get a habitual offender off the streets.

Wizard of Oz at Monrovia's Taylor Performing Arts Center



Professional performance of The Wizard Of Oz at the Taylor Performing Arts Center, a.k.a. Monrovia High auditorium, on July 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20. Details:http://goo.gl/FmQlfF 

- Brad Haugaard

New Newspaper Being Distributed on Monrovia


The Los Angeles Register, an offshoot of the Orange County Register, has begun distributing in Monrovia. Well, maybe other people have received it before now, but today they began throwing it on my front yard as a free intro. Has anyone else received it before now?
 
Rather bold to be starting a paper newspaper in a day when newspapers are fading, but interesting. It's "Local" section is, perhaps, local to LA County, but not particularly local to Monrovia. Also it's editorial page is more conservative than the Star-News or Los Angeles Times.
 
Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Starlight Express Chinese Food


Lunch at Starlight Express Chinese Food, in the Pavilions shopping area. Wasn't very hungry, so I got the Starbowl ($4.79),  a rice bowl with veggies and teriyaki chicken. Plus an iced tea for $1.39. Nice. 

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia City Council Meeting: City Manager, Track Athletes, Plastic Bag Ban

At its meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/1v61Gq ) this coming Tuesday, July 1, the Monrovia City Council will ...

~ Continue the process of getting a new city manager. That'll be in closed session before the regular meeting. http://goo.gl/1v61Gq

~ Recognize Monrovia High track athletes for their achievements at 2014 CIF Championships.

~ Vote again (a "second reading," which is sort of a confirmation vote) on the plastic grocery bag prohibition it adopted at the previous meeting.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: 600 Marijuana Plants Seized; Theft from Vehicles; Driving Drunk

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

Comment: In reading these reports week after week, it amazes me how many people leave valuables in locked - and even unlocked - vehicles. That is really not a good idea. - Brad

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 418 service events, resulting in 78 investigations.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol / Non-Injury Hit & Run Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
On June 23 at 3:21 a.m., officers responded to the area of California and Huntington regarding a hit and run traffic collision. A silver truck collided into another vehicle that was stopped for a red light. The driver and passenger of the truck got out of the vehicle and ran. Both suspects were apprehended by the officers. The driver was intoxicated, so field sobriety tests were conducted. He was arrested and taken into custody. The passenger was also arrested for 2 warrants both for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
On June 23 at 6:45 a.m., dispatch received a call reporting a male subject holding a big stick, talking to himself in the area of Huntington and California. The subject was contacted and found to be in possession of uncapped hypodermic needles. He was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia.

Vehicle Vandalism
On June 23 at 11:12 a.m., dispatch received a call from a resident in the 100 block of Encinitas regarding a vandalized vehicle. The resident reported that one of his vehicle tires was slashed sometime on Saturday and several flower pots were broken. No suspects were seen and the victim claims no one specific is suspected. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
On June 23 at 12:06 p.m., a resident in the 400 block of East Olive called to report a burglary. He parked his work truck in the driveway of his residence leaving the left driver side window down about 5 inches. An unknown suspect reached through the window, activated the garage opener and took a bag containing miscellaneous tools. A work lap top computer from inside an unlocked vehicle in the garage was also taken. The investigation is continuing.

Commercial Vandalism
On June 24 at 7:42 a.m., officers responded to a business in the 500 block of South Myrtle regarding vandalism that occurred between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. A light fixture on the ceiling above the front door of the business had been pulled down and thrown on the ground. The investigation is continuing

Vehicle Burglary
On June 24 at 10:05 a.m., a passerby called to report broken glass on the ground from a car window in the 900 block of West Huntington. During his investigation, the officer discovered a witness who saw two male Hispanics in a grey sedan, break the window and take luggage from a Buick, and break a window on a Toyota. The investigation is continuing.

Possession for Sales of Concentrated Cannabis and Marijuana – Suspect Arrested
On June 24 at 12:59 p.m., an officer was conducting extra patrol in the area of California and Cherry when he observed a suspicious male seated in a vehicle. Upon approaching the vehicle he immediately smelled a pungent odor of fresh marijuana. During the course of his investigation, he discovered a large amount of concentrated cannabis and marijuana inside of the vehicle. Also discovered were approximately 25 individually packaged items of concentrated cannabis "wax," additional baggies of marijuana and a digital scale. The suspect was arrested for sales of concentrated cannabis and marijuana.

Theft from an Unlocked Vehicle
On June 25 at 8:27 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 200 block of West Lime regarding a theft investigation. The victim parked his vehicle in the parking lot of his complex at approximately 11:15 p.m., but left it unlocked. Upon returning the following morning discovered his iPod, three cell phones and some cash were missing. The investigation is continuing.

Cultivation of Marijuana / Sales / Grant Theft / Conspiracy – Suspects Arrested
On June 25 at 9:33 p.m., Monrovia Special Enforcement Team with the assistance of Los Angeles Inter-agency Metropolitan Police Apprehension Crime Task Force, served a search warrant in the 200 block of West Cypress. The search warrant resulted in the seizure of over 600 marijuana plants, 2 pounds of dried marijuana, 2 vehicles and US currency. Three male adults were arrested and charged for cultivation, sales, grand theft, and conspiracy. Charges will be sought with the Los Angeles District Attorney.

Pets and Fireworks - Keep Your Cats and Dogs Safe

The Pasadena Humane Society, which serves Monrovia, points out that cats and dogs generally don't enjoy Fourth of July fireworks. It recommends:

- Don't take pets to watch fireworks.
- Keep pets inside during fireworks. Playing a radio may help diffuse the sound of fireworks.
- Be certain that pets' ID tags and microchip are current.
- If a pet may become extremely agitated or stressed, consult a veterinarian and discuss sedatives or overnight boarding.
- If a pet runs away, search the shelter closest to home. Many shelters post photos of the animals that come into their facility on their website. PHS' website, www.pasadenahumane.org, is updated hourly. Post signs and visit nearby shelters for at least a month. Animals can run a long way when they are badly frightened.
- If a cat is lost, it may stay in hiding for days or weeks, so leave plenty of food and fresh water outside. (Pick it up at night so unwanted wild animals aren’t attracted.) Post signs and check local and neighboring shelters in person and online; a pet’s description may fit several animals in the shelter.

Source: PHS press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's Canyon Park, Preserve, Closed July 3-5

Monrovia's Canyon Park and the Hillside Wilderness Preserve will be closed July 3-5 in anticipation of high fire danger. http://goo.gl/FpMZLb

- Brad Haugaard

When Will Monrovia Dog License Renewals Go Out?

A reader wonders what is happening with dog license renewals now that animal control has been transferred from the city to the Pasadena Humane Society: "Here it is June 23rd and nothing has been mailed out, at least we didn't get anything, about renewing our dog's license."

I asked Alexis Bakofsky, at the Monrovia City Hall. She responds:

"Pasadena Humane Society will be sending out the renewal for dog licenses. We don't have an exact date yet for the mailing, but residents can call PHS at (626) 792-7151. Or if they know they are due they can go there to pay or they can drop off a check or money order at the PD and PHS has an agent pick up payments once a week."

- Brad Haugaard

Kid Movies at Monrovia's Krikorian Theater

Movies for kids at the Krikorian, Tuesdays 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Details: http://goo.gl/cPpc6C

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Shooting; Drunk Driving; Carport Fire

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

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
On June 21 at 2:10 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation in the 400 block of East Cherry. During the stop it was determined the driver had been drinking. Field sobriety tests were conducted and the driver was arrested for driving while under the influence of alcohol.

Structure Fire
On June 21 at 8:45 a.m., officers responded to a structure fire in the 800 block of West Duarte. A vehicle caught fire in the carport area of a large apartment complex. The vehicle fire lit the carport on fire which ultimately damaged 6 vehicles. The fire was handled by Monrovia Fire Department and the evacuations were completed by Monrovia Police Department patrol staff. No residential structures were involved and there were no injuries. Monrovia Fire Department is investigating the origin of the fire. No foul play is suspected.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
On June 22 at 3:14 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation in the area of Myrtle and Benrud. During the stop it was determined the driver had been drinking. Field sobriety tests were conducted and the driver was arrested for driving under the influence.

Shooting at a Inhabited Dwelling
On June 22 at 4:19 a.m., a resident called to report the sound of a single shot being fired in the 500 block of East Cherry. When officers arrived, they located a residence with a single gunshot hole through the front door. The round went through the door and struck a kitchen appliance. Nearby residents heard the gunshot, but could not determine where the shot came from. No one inside was injured.Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol / Possession of an Open Alcohol

Container / Suspended License – Suspect Arrested
On June 22 at 8:06 p.m., an officer observed a vehicle failing to stop for a red light in the area of Myrtle and Longden. The vehicle was stopped and it was apparent the driver had been drinking alcohol. Field sobriety tests were conducted. The driver was subsequently arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, possession of an open alcohol container in the vehicle and driving with a suspended license. The suspect’s license was suspended due to two previous driving under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Register for Monrovia MAP Conference

Registration is now OPEN for the 5th Annual MAP Neighborhood Conference, hosted by the City of Monrovia Neighborhood Services Division. The Conference will be held Saturday, August 9, 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the Monrovia High School Event Center, 845 W. Colorado Blvd. (enter on Madison Ave).

This popular, annual event is open to residents in and out of Monrovia, and participants are encouraged to register early. At the Conference, participants will enjoy free food, entertainment, workshops and small group discussions with other residents, community leaders, city staff and local officials. This event is free, fun and a great way for Monrovia and area residents to learn more about getting involved in the community.

The Conference includes workshops such as: - Resume Builder - The Shaping of Station Square - Taking PLAY Seriously - Immigration Outlook - Therapy Dogs - Save Money, Save the Earth and more

To find out more or register for the Conference, visit www.cityofmonrovia.org, call (626) 932-5563 or e-mail map@ci.monrovia.ca.us

Those interested in the event can register for classes by visiting www.cityofmonrovia.org, Monrovia City Hall, Community Center, or the Monrovia Public Library. For more information, you can also call Neighborhood Services Staff at 932-5563.

Source: Monrovia press release

- Brad Haugaard

Xpress Car Wash Now Open in Monrovia


The Xpress car wash is now open in Monrovia. It's on Huntington almost across from Target.

- Brad Haugaard

Art Walk in Old Monrovia

Art Walk - art and music - sponsored by Monrovia Association of Fine Arts. June 29, July 27, and August 31, 7-10 p.m. on Myrtle in Old Town. http://goo.gl/yPt1h4

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's Segil Fine Art Gallery Moving to Washington

Laura Segil, owner of Monrovia's Segil Fine Art painting gallery, has announced she and her husband are moving with their gallery to Port Angeles, Washington. She writes:

"Thank you for 10 wonderful years on Lime Avenue in Monrovia! You have helped us grow and become a successful art gallery during some challenging economic times. Now, it's time for a change and we are making it in a big way! My husband, Bill and I have purchased a gorgeous Victorian Bed and Breakfast in Port Angeles, Washington on the beautiful Olympic Peninsula named Sea Cliff Gardens and the gallery will be part of the B&B."

Comment: Monrovia's loss. I've been there many times to enjoy the really excellent paintings by local artists. But I also compared them with my own paintings, and, well, I often joked that I had come in the gallery to be discouraged. Definitely kept me humble. Bon voyage!

- Brad Haugaard

New Monrovia Coffee Shop Planned on Myrtle

A new coffee shop, called Eureka Coffee Lounge, is planning to open at 415 S. Myrtle. That's a door or two down from Sena, on the west side of the street. I wandered by today and it looks as if it may be some time before opening. http://goo.gl/Tw14he

- Brad Haugaard

Dog Care Class at Monrovia Library Park

4th of July is loud and scary for pets! It's the day/night of the year when a lot of pets are so frightened, they bolt.

Romping Dogs Dog Training and Two Dogs Petsitting have gathered local pet care experts for the first ever Pet Safety Fair in Monrovia!

Bring your well-behaved pets (no lunging, excessive barking, growling allowed) and have Family Dog and Cat Hospital, Pasadena Humane Society, or Best Friends Animal Hospital scan them for their microchip. Best Friends is also offering low cost microchips on site!

Learn how to handle basic pet emergencies from Denise Fleck of Sunny Dog Inc. Learn about car ride safety and travel safety from Two Dogs Petsitting! Romping Dogs Dog Training will teach you how to teach your dog what to do when emergency personnel come to the house or during a house fire or fireworks. The Dog Zone will have Thundershirts and Kongs to assist in keeping your dog calm and occupied during fireworks displays. Wonder Dog Ranch can tell you all about their Fireworks Camp at their boarding facility for the dogs who need to be out of the home on 4th of July!

Lots of vendors, dog games/contests, and plenty of pet experts on hand to answer any and all pet safety questions! Let's work together to keep our community pets healthy and safe :-)

All proceeds will benefit the Emma Zen Foundation. EZF donates pet oxygen masks to first responders all over the world!

If you'd like to be a vendor or donate to our raffles, there's still time. Contact info@petsafetyfair.org and check out the Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/petsafetyfairs

Admission is free! The event is at Library Park (fountain side) from 10am-1pm on Sunday, June 29. Pet safety talks by local experts will be from 11am-12pm

Source: press release

- Brad Haugaard

Fire Fighters Extinguish Blaze on Duarte Road | Monrovia's Gillespie Athlete of Year

~ Monrovia firefighters extinguish a multi-vehicle blaze in a parking area on Duarte Road. http://goo.gl/38ZYRB

~ Monrovia's Cravon Gillespie is field athlete of the year. Also, Mike Knowles and Randy Hare, coaches of the year. http://goo.gl/haZG06

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia School Board: Raise Lunch Price 25 Cents; Etc.

At its June 25 board meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/hrRQr4 ), the Monrovia School Board will consider ...

- Approving a twenty-five cent increase for the paid lunch rate beginning with the 2014-15 school year. http://goo.gl/1lMOC8

- Adopting a budget for 2014-15.

- Adopting various regulations permitting shuffling around of money.

- Setting salary levels for various employees.

- Accepting $100,000 from a contractor to settle a dispute over construction work. http://goo.gl/QBV1Bc

- Setting five district goals: 1. Learning for all students; 2. Safe, orderly, positive learning environments; 3. quality staff providing quality service; 4. School/home/community partnerships and communication; 5. Acquisition and allocation of resources to meet goals 1-4. http://goo.gl/5CvHXR

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Max's Mexican Cuisine

Lunch at Max's Mexican Cuisine, on Huntington across from Target. Yes, it is actually in Monrovia. Got a taco and enchilada combo ($8.95) and a beer. ($6). Really fast and efficient service. Very good, fresh food. Liked it!

- Brad Haugaard

Harley Fundraiser for Monrovia's Relay for Life

San Gabriel Valley Harley Owners Group/Black Sheep Division will hold a fundraiser hosted by Monrovia Relay for Life's "Team Big Mike" on Saturday, June 28, at 5 p.m. BBQ, five bingo games and a big-screen showing of a hit movie (PG13 or lower). 28566 Santa Caterina Road in Saugus. $10 for adults, $5 for children 12 and under. RSVP to shaabanx3@sbcgllobal.net. http://goo.gl/4d1nJP

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Mental Evaluations; Drugs; Burglary

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

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 383 service events, During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 383 service events, resulting in 84 investigations.

Welfare Check / Driving Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia / Possession of Marijuana – Suspect Arrested
On June 16 at 12:47 p.m., police received a call reporting a dark gray Toyota Prius with paper plates stopped on the southwest corner of Heliotrope and Lime, with the driver slumped over the wheel and the brake lights on. Officers responded and determined the subject was under the influence of a controlled substance. When officers contacted him, he had a pipe for smoking methamphetamine in his hand and marijuana was found in his vehicle. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Mental Evaluation
On June 16 at 1:14 p.m., a 16-year-old male subject who lives at a group home in the 900 block of West Olive was in a verbal altercation with another subject and punched a wall, hurting his hand. He was taken to a hospital by the on-site keeper. Later that day, police received a call reporting the subject was attempting suicide. He had climbed on top of a chair that he had placed on a pool table and had a sheet. When officers arrived, he denied any suicide attempt. He does not like where he has been placed. He was taken to a hospital for mental evaluation.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
On June 17 at 4:13 p.m., an officer was dispatched to Highway Esplanade and Chestnut regarding an intoxicated subject. An officer arrived and located the subject, who was breathing, but was not responsive. Monrovia Fire Department paramedics checked the subject. He was determined to be intoxicated and was arrested for being drunk in public.

Residential Burglary
On June 17 at 9:16 p.m., a burglary was reported in then 500 block of Valmont. The victim arrived home and found his front door, rear window and back door open. The home had been ransacked and jewelry was missing. The occurrence time is believed to be between 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. The investigation is continuing.

72 Hours Mental Evaluation
On June 17 at 11:14 p.m., officers responded to a residence in the 300 block of East Palm on the report of a family disturbance. The female caller was crying on the telephone and told the dispatcher her husband was acting bizarre and was in possession of a handgun. When officers arrived, the female subject was waiting outside. The subject was inside the house with their two small children. Officers directed personnel around the perimeter of the residence. The dispatcher called the residence in an effort to facilitate a welfare check on the children. The subject refused all suggestions and would not cooperate, and he also admitted that he was armed with a gun. A police sergeant was able to contact the subject and began negotiated with him on the telephone. The subject eventually agreed to put the gun down and go to the door to speak with officers. As officers approached the front door, the suspect began to slowly retreat back into the residence. Fearing for the safety of the children, the officers subdued the subject and detained him without further incident. A semi-automatic handgun was recovered from the kitchen counter. The magazine for the weapon was found nearby and was loaded with five rounds of live ammunition. The children were unharmed. The subject was determined to be a danger to himself and others, and was taken to a mental facility, where he would be held for a 72-hour mental evaluation. The weapon was seized.

Krikorian Theater in Chevy Ad | UFO Over Monrovia?

~ Monrovia's Krikorian Theater featured in a Chevy Cruze commercial, in Spanish. http://goo.gl/XFo4EL

~ UFO over Monrovia? Bright, white, and ping pong ball-ish. http://goo.gl/EFtqrv

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Assemblyman's Education Bill Approved by Committee

Assembly Bill 1451, by Assemblymember Chris Holden - who represents Monrovia - has been unanimously approved in the Senate Education Committee. The bill encourages school districts and community colleges to enter into partnerships to let high school students take college courses or career tech classes. Source: Holden press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Lowers Filming Fees

At its June 17 City Council meeting, the Monrovia City Council voted to lower Monrovia filming fees from $780 per issuance to $500- a reduction of over 35 percent.

The City of Monrovia has always been friendly to filming. Over the years commercials, music videos, feature films, independent films and photo shoots have used Monrovia as a backdrop. Movies like Lethal Weapon, Grosse Point Bank, and Legally Blond, and TV Shows like Revenge, CSI, Mad Men and the entire Picket Fences series all have scenes based out of Monrovia.

Filming brings in revenue to the City, local businesses and residents who offer up their locations for film shoots or staging areas. After a significant drop in film requests starting in 2012, the City Council contracted with Film L.A. in January 2014 to handle film permits and attract more filming to the City. Since that time, Monrovia has seen filming begin to pick up.

"As states and cities around the country begin to see the benefit that filming brings to local economies, we are watching our beloved film industry leave California for places that offer better rates," said Mayor Mary Ann Lutz. "Monrovia is an ideal film location for so many reasons, and we want to be more competitive to keep our film industry here in town."

Special event permit fees in Monrovia also decreased 50% from $50 to $25.

Source: City of Monrovia press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police Employees Receiving Distinguished Service Medal

The Monrovia Police Department will recognize the accomplishments of six employees on Thursday, June 19, at 5 p.m., in the City of Monrovia Council Chambers. The six recipients will be awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for their exceptional work, their dedication to the Monrovia Police Department and their commitment to the community of Monrovia.

Honorees are:

- Detective Roberto Wilken
- Detective Sarah Bushmeyer
- Detective Stewart Levin
- Officer John Jefferson
- Officer James Ruano
- Jailer Christine Garland

Source: Monrovia Police press release

- Brad Haugaard

St. Francis Stolen | Monrovia Giraffe

~ According to this Twitter post, apparently someone stole a small statue of St. Francis from the Upton Sinclair home on North Myrtle. http://goo.gl/YJw1KW

~ Metal giraffe outside condos in Monrovia. http://goo.gl/qXglSI

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Having Difficulties Hiring New City Manager; Trying Again

Following a complaint by Monrovia City Council member Tom Adams at tonight's council meeting that the city is not doing well with only a part-time interim city manager, Mayor Mary Ann Lutz reported that the city hopes to hire a new full-time manager "in a month or so."

She said since former City Manager Laurie Lile retired last October the city has gone through a search process and made offers to two candidates, but couldn't agree with either of them on a salary. So, she added, the city is now going through the search process again.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Council Again Votes to Ban Plastic Grocery Bags

The Monrovia City Council again adopted a ban on plastic grocery carry-out bags on a 3-2 vote, with Mayor Mary Ann Lutz and council members Larry Spicer and Alexander Blackburn in favor and council members Tom Adams and Becky Shevlin voting against. The only change from the previous time the council voted for the ban is that the enforcement date will be later, on Jan. 1, 2015.

Interesting points:

- A representative of a grocers association said its members support the plastic bag ban, but just want the ban to be uniform throughout local communities. Also, Mayor Lutz later said she contacted several local grocers and found they were all in favor of the ban. Council member Adams said that is hardly surprising since a ban would mean the cost of the bags would be shifted from the markets to their customers.

- Councilmember Becky Schevlin said she was bothered that the ad hoc plastic bag committee approved the ban with only two members voting. Mayor Lutz responded by quoting council member Tom Adams, who said at a previous meeting that if you don't show up, you don't get to vote.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's McCarthy Player of Year | Curio Shop Gone

~ Monrovia's Elise McCarthy named player of the year. http://goo.gl/fWNhlC

~ Route 66 Curio shop gone from Aztec Hotel. http://goo.gl/ScHTt5

- Brad Haugaard

Opinion: How Big a Problem are Plastic Bags for Monrovia?

The Monrovia City Council will again consider a ban on plastic carry-out grocery bags this evening (7:30 p.m. if you want to show up and have your say), so I thought I'd make the following point.

One of the core unaddressed questions in the entire plastic bag ban discussion is this:

What percentage of Monrovia's trash volume is made up of plastic grocery store carry-out bags?

I have not seen the answer to this question, and if the city cannot show that plastic grocery store carry-out bags comprise a significant percentage of its trash volume, then a ban is an utterly unwarranted governmental intrusion into the itty-bitty details of people's lives.

- Brad Haugaard

Electricity Rates Going Up | Monrovia Helping Test Backflow Devices | Plastic Bag Ban

~ It appears electricity rates will go up this summer. Southern California Edison doesn't exactly say "go up," but does say rates will "change." Reasons: The cost to generate or buy power is increasing; SCE is updating the grid; high-usage customers are subsidizing low-usage customers and this will spread costs more evenly. http://goo.gl/s1A0pM

~ Monrovia Today magazine reports that Monrovia is partnering with USC and a number of backflow prevention device makers to test new backflow devices. These things prevent water (usually contaminated) from flowing the wrong direction in pipes. [Comment: Kinda nice to live in a quiet town where backflow prevention devices can make the news.] http://goo.gl/w4xU6d

~ At its 7:30 meeting tonight, the Monrovia City Council will again consider whether to ban plastic grocery store carry-out bags. [Comment: Just got back from a trip and those bags are great for storing dirty clothes so they don't mess up clean clothes. Please, no more nonsense about these bags being single-use.]

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Summer Activities

Lots of fun activities and classes in the summer calendar which should have been mailed to you as part of the Monrovia Today pamphlet, but which is here in case you missed it: http://goo.gl/w4xU6d

- Brad Haugaard

For Your Calendar: Monrovia Summer Concerts in the Park

Sunday evenngs, 7-8:30 p.m. at the bandshell at Library Park.

July 13 - Jumpin' Joz Band (Jazz)

July 20 - Lily Wilson (Folk Pop)

July 27 - The Answer (Classic Rock)

August 3 - Mariachi Divas (Mariachi)

August 10 - Person to Person (Top 40)

August 17 - The Yari More Latin Band (Salsa)

August 24 - The Undercover Girls (80s)

August 31 - Doo Wah Riders (Country)


For more info call Department of Community Services at 256-8245. http://goo.gl/w4xU6d

- Brad Haugaard

Did You Lose a Dog?


Is this your dog? Amanda Wray reports that "a friend found this little dog running loose around Olive and Shamrock. It has a collar and looks cared for but no tag. Does anyone know the owner?

"If so, please contact Kelly at 626-802-7278"

- Brad Haugaard

Wrong-Way Driver on Freeway | Monrovia Explorers

~ Wrong-way driver causes freeway crash in Monrovia. Some injuries. Man arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. http://goo.gl/pYJlvd

~ Photo of Monrovia grads of the San Gabriel Valley Law Enforcement Explorer Academy. http://goo.gl/Q7ywx0


- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Fourth of July Celebration Linked to Friday Night Family Festival

The City of Monrovia's 4th of July Concert and Fireworks Show is scheduled for Friday, July 4th, in Library Park; located at 321 South Myrtle Avenue.

For the first time in Monrovia history, the 4th of July event will be held in conjunction with the very popular Friday Night Family Festival. After saving seats for the Fireworks show, those who attend the event can look forward to great shopping and dining along Myrtle Avenue, kids' activities, arts and crafts vendors, and a farmers' market. The Family Festival will run from 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Live entertainment in Library Park will begin at 7:00 p.m. with a performance by "Stone Soul" followed by the free 20 minute Fireworks Show at 9:00 p.m.

Spectators may reserve a park space no larger than 10 x 10 feet which must be supervised at all times.

This event is made possible by: Presidential Sponsor - Mary Ann and Corey Lutz, Wendy's Hamburgers, Samuelson & Fetter, Monrovia Old Town Merchants, Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District, The Sierra Family of Dealerships, and Ducommun AeroStructures.

Come celebrate our Nation's Independence Day in the Star Spangled City of Monrovia! For additional information, please contact the Monrovia Department of Community Services at (626) 256-8246.

Source: City of Monrovia press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's Dollmakers Kattywompus Named Business of the Year

A longtime Monrovia business has been named Small Business of the Year for the 41st Assembly District. At the California Small Business Day ceremony in Sacramento today, Assemblymember Chris Holden (D-Pasadena) recognized Pam Fitzpatrick as owner of The Dollmakers Kattywompus. The annual awards program honors small businesses throughout the state.

"I am pleased to honor Pam Fitzpatrick not only for all her hard work, but for her civic commitment as well," said Assemblymember Holden. "Pam is a success not only because she's a good businesswoman, but because she gives back to the community. Businesses like hers are the backbone of the community and it is important that we recognize their contributions to the economy of California."

"I was both surprised and honored to receive the phone call that our family business had won this award. And it makes me smile every time I think about it: it IS possible to pursue your dream and succeed, and it IS possible to do it with your family," said Pam Fitzpatrick.

Fitzpatrick, the owner of The Dollmakers' Kattywompus, has been a part of the Monrovia business scene since 1991 when the store first opened in Old Town. Since then, her doll and retro toy store has expanded to offer music lessons and free Friday night concerts. Fitzpatrick is also very active in her community and has helped many non-profits by donating toys and giving of her time and energy. Her sister and co-owner, Jennifer Ranger accompanied her to Sacramento.

She was nominated by Becky Shevlin, Mayor Pro Tem, City of Monrovia who stated, "Pam Fitzpatrick is beyond tireless in her pursuit to not only promote her own family business but to also promote and protect the interests of other businesses in Monrovia Old Town."

source: Holden press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Police Follow GPS Signal to Make Arrest; Child Abuse; Drunk Driving; Etc.

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

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events. 

Stolen Vehicle Recovered / Receiving Stolen Property – Suspect Arrested
On June 13 at 7:00 a.m., a stolen vehicle was recovered in the 100 block of West Colorado. The vehicle was a rental and was stolen out of Pasadena. At 1:53 p.m., the owner of the vehicle came to the police station to report that his GPS tracker was stolen from the vehicle. Police were able to track the GPS unit to the 200 block of West Chestnut. Officers followed the GPS signal to a motor home parked at the curb. A subject answered the door to the motor home and allowed the officers to search the motor home. The GPS unit was recovered, along with other possible stolen property. The suspect denied all knowledge of the GPS and the other property. He was arrested for receiving stolen property and taken into custody. 

Commercial Burglary / Robbery – Suspect Arrested
On June 13 at 8:17 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 500 block of West Huntington regarding a burglary. The suspect was seen selecting merchandise and concealing it in his backpack. The suspect walked out of the location without paying and was approached by loss prevention. The suspect tried to strike one of the loss prevention officers and managed to retrieve a pocket knife, but dropped it. Loss prevention backed away and the suspect fled on foot. He was detained by arriving officers on a nearby street. Loss prevention positively identified the suspect and he was arrested. 

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspects Arrested
During the evening of June 13 and early morning hours of June 14, officers stopped five separate vehicles for driving under the influence of alcohol in the city. The drivers were arrested and taken into custody.
 
The Monrovia Police Department would like to remind the public of the danger and consequences of driving under the influence. Not only are you putting your life in danger, but you put the life of others in danger when you choose to get behind the wheel while intoxicated. If you see a driver that appears to be driving under the influence, call 911 and report their location to police. 

Child Abuse – Suspect Arrested
On June 15 at 10:52 p.m., officers responded to a residence in the 700 block of Monterey regarding possible child abuse that had just occurred. The suspect had fled in a vehicle, but was apprehended by officers on the 605 Freeway at Arrow Highway. Officers arrived at the residence and discovered that a 13-year-old female had been strangled by her father, after he became upset with her for not helping with housework. The child sustained injuries. The father was arrested for child abuse and taken into custody. Paramedics responded and examined the child and the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services was notified. 

Family Disturbance / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
On June 15 at 12:55 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 800 block of West Olive regarding a male subject who was reported by his family to be out of control and possibly on drugs. He had been yelling at everyone in the house. As officers were responding, the family reported that the subject had fled the home in a white vehicle. The vehicle was located and the subject was detained. He was not determined to be under the influence of drugs; however, he did have a felony warrant for his arrest with a bail set at $300,000 for assault, which was a Monrovia case. The suspect was arrested. 

Look at the Sun - Safely, at Monrovia's Library Park

Your mother always told you to never look directly at the sun, and she was right, except for this day.

Sunday June 22nd is International SUNday.

Come out to Library Park and look at the sun through several specialize solar telescopes.

One is for white light, which you will see sunspots.

The second one is for Hydrogen Alpha or Ha.

This one will show a very active spectrum of the sun where you will see filaments, prominence and spicules.

After looking at our nearest star, you will never see the sun in the same way.
Unlike looking at the Moon or Saturn through a telescope at night, which will look the same for the most part, the sun can and will change every hour, and sometimes even minutes.

I'll have some freebies like solar (sun) glasses that you can use to look directly at the sun.

Sometimes you can see sunspots with them if they are large enough.

I will be at the park around 9 AM to 4 PM on the 22nd near the corner of Myrtle Ave and Lime Ave, on the grassy area. If you are not going to be able to make it Sunday, I'll also be in Pasadena on the 28th.

This is part of the Charlie Bates Solar Astronomy Project, a non profit Internet outreach club.

Source: Brad Hori


- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Freeway Crash Kills One

Man killed in freeway crash in Monrovia. Collision between car and big rig. http://goo.gl/tyfePV

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Chicken King Express

Lunch at Chicken King Express, at the shopping center at the northeast corner of Mayflower and Foothill. Got the falafel plate ($7.95) and a lemonade ($2). Friendly guy at the counter and food was fine.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Council: Vote on Plastic Bag Ban; Budget; Sex Offendrs

On the June 17 Monrovia City Council agenda ( http://goo.gl/3LkGqY ):

- Reconsider adopting a ban on plastic carry-out grocery bags. http://goo.gl/pwpIzq

- Adopt budget for 2014-15 fiscal year. Nice discussion in the staff report ( http://goo.gl/KvCx4Y ) showing a slow but steady economic recovery for the city.

- Consider repealing an ordinance that prohibits loitering by sex offenders. A court has ruled against such ordinances and therefore they cannot be enforced. http://goo.gl/pBYkcg

- Brad Haugaard

Citrus College to Confer a Record Number of Degrees

Citrus College, which serves Monrovia, will hold its 98th commencement ceremony on June 14. This year, the college will award 2,119 associate degrees to 1,296 students, breaking its record for the fourth consecutive year.

Source: press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Big Rig vs. Motorcycle; Catalytic Converter Stolen; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for June 9-11. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 388 service events, resulting in 64 investigations. 

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance / Resisting Arrest Causing Injury – Suspect Arrested
On June 9 at 9:34 a.m., officers responded to Myrtle and Huntington regarding a male subject walking in and out of traffic. Officers arrived and located the subject, who was exhibiting signs of being under the influence of a controlled substance. When officers attempted to arrest him, he pulled away and a struggle ensued. The suspect was taken into custody. One of the officers was injured in the incident. 

Residential Burglary
On June 9 at 10:32 a.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 600 block of Ranchito Road. The residents left for work at different times. When they returned from work, they found their dogs had been separated and locked separate rooms. The master bedroom was ransacked, and a wallet and jewelry was taken. The investigation is continuing. 

Commercial Burglary
On June 9 at 2:17 p.m., a business in the 1600 block of South Mountain called police to report a burglary that had just occurred. A male suspect walked in and selected electrical switches. He walked past open registers and exited without paying. He fled in a waiting vehicle. An employee of the business took a photo of the vehicle, which turned out to be a rental. The officer obtained the name of the renter. A DMV photo was obtained and compared to photos provided by the business. The suspect was positively identified and a wanted person entry was made into the law enforcement system computer for the suspect. The investigation is continuing. 

Commercial Burglary – Suspect Arrested
On June 9 at 7:24 p.m., an officer was on patrol in a shopping center in the 500 block of West Huntington. An employee of a business ran outside and reported a theft that just occurred. The employee provided a description of the suspect and the suspect vehicle. Another officer in the area located the suspect vehicle, parked, with the suspect seated in the right, front passenger seat. The suspect was detained and arrested for commercial burglary. The store merchandise was recovered from the suspect vehicle and returned. 

Warrant / Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
June 10 at 2:58 a.m., an officer on patrol near Myrtle and Pomona observed suspicious subjects walking around in the area. Officers detained one of the subjects and determined she had an outstanding warrant for her arrest. The suspect was also determined to be under the influence of a controlled substance. She was arrested and taken into custody. 

Grand Theft
On June 10 at 1:20 p.m., the victim of a grand theft came to the police department lobby to report the crime. The victim parked his vehicle, a 2002 Honda Accord, across the street from his residence in the 100 block of South Madison. When he returned to the vehicle, he started it up and heard a loud noise. He looked under the car and saw the exhaust pipe had been cut and the catalytic converter was missing. The investigation is continuing. 

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
On June 10 at 7:34 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a business in the 900 block of West Huntington regarding a disturbing subject. The subject entered the store the day before and caused a disturbance by yelling and throwing trash on the floor. The subject had now returned to the location and continued his bizarre behavior. The subject refused to leave, as requested by store management and was placed on a private person's arrest for trespassing. The subject was arrested and taken into custody. He was later released on a citation to appear in court. 

Traffic Collision with Injuries
On June 11 at 5:48 a.m., an officer responded to Evergreen and Myrtle regarding a traffic collision. It appears the drivers of a big rig truck and a motorcycle were both attempting to make a right turn from Evergreen to southbound Myrtle. The motorcycle was attempting to make the turn by passing the big rig on the right. The motorcycle was hit by the trailer of the big rig and dragged a short distance. The motorcycle rider sustained a broken right leg and some minor abrasions. He was taken to a hospital for treatment of his injuries. 

Theft from a Vehicle
On June 11 at 8:09 a.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 1200 block of Orange Avenue. The victim's GPS was taken from his work van sometime during the night. The investigation is continuing. 

Congresswoman Introduces Bill to Create Rec Area Above Monrovia

Monrovia's congresswoman, Judy Chu, has introduced a bill in Congress to create a National Recreation Area in the mountains above Monrovia. Her draft proposal included land within Monrovia city limits, and the City Council specifically asked that Monrovia be excluded from the NRA. http://goo.gl/zZewnv

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Rotary Helps Explorers

The Monrovia Rotary Club has donated more than $1000 to the Monrovia Police Department Explorer program. http://goo.gl/kvk8Qh

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Summer Reading Program for Kids, Teens... and Adults

Summer Reading is not just for kids and teens... Adults can join in the fun too! The City of Monrovia encourages readers of all ages to join the Summer Reading Program. Read books and get prizes. You don't want to miss this FREE program!

The Monrovia Public Library is presenting the annual Summer Reading Program from Monday, June 16 through Saturday, August 2. The Library is located at 321 S. Myrtle Avenue, in Old Town Monrovia's Library Park.

Registration begins Monday, June 16. Sign up at www.cityofmonrovia.org/library and click on the Summer Reading tab or visit the Library for assistance.

Readers must have a valid Monrovia Library Card to sign-up. To obtain a Library Card, please visit the Customer Service Desk for more information.

Library hours are Monday through Wednesday 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Thursday through Saturday 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Source: Monrovia press release

- Brad Haugaard

Holden's Obama Bill Passes Senate Committee

A bill by Assemblymember Chris Holden, who represents Momrovia, to "encourage" schools to recognize the full significance of President Obama as the first African American Presiden,t has unanimously passed the Senate Education Committee on a vote of 7 to 0.

Source: Holden press release

Comment: I guess Mr. Holden has a rather low opinion of the state's educational establishment if he feels the legislature needs to butt in even down to this level of detail in curriculum development.

- Brad Haugaard

Fire at King's Ranch Shopping Area

A fire shut down the King's Ranch shopping center. http://goo.gl/mlnHUi

- Brad Haugaard


Henry Ford, a Fan of Monrovia

Pioneer car maker Henry Ford preferred Monrovia groceries and baked goods to those of Pasadena. Who knew? http://goo.gl/N5NeXP

- Brad Haugaard

New Monrovia Weather Station

Monrovian Brad Hori reports that he has recently put his Personal Weather Station (PWS) on the Internet for the Monrovia area. Data is updated every couple of seconds and his weather station is 25+ years old and has been operating for that long).

"This is real time info, not what you would get from the TV news, which maybe hours old or not from this area, as stuff like temperature, humidity, wind and rain will vary, even blocks away.

"I try to keep my sensors calibrated (within reason) as I have calibrated equipment at work that I can use and portable equipment."

His station, one of a number of Monrovia stations, is called Route 666 Monrovia, KCAMONRO6, and you can see it here: http://goo.gl/S5v5KE

- Brad Haugaard

AeroVironment Drone Gets Over-Land Permission | Citrus Best | Mason Joins Staar Board

~ The FAA has granted a first-ever over-land restricted type certificate to the AeroVironment Puma AE Drone for use in operations at the BP-operated Prudhoe Bay oil field on Alaska's North Slope. AeroVironment is based in Monrovia. http://goo.gl/qkQBBp

~ San Gabriel Valley residents have voted Citrus College as the best community college in the region in the 2014 Readers Choice Award for Best Community College in the San Gabriel Valley's Best competition, which is conducted annually by the Pasadena Star-News, San Gabriel Valley Tribune and Whittier Daily News. Source: Press release.

~ Caren Mason has been elected to the board of Momrovia's STAAR Surgical. http://goo.gl/ZBRqpv

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Softball Star in All-Star Game

Monrovia's Elise McCarthy and three other softball MVPs will be featured in the 10th annual private vs. public all-star softball game in Temple City. http://goo.gl/qFVleu

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Bad Dating Relationship, Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for June 5-8. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events. 

Theft from a Vehicle
On June 6 at 4:00 p.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 300 block of West Foothill. The victim parked and locked his car in front of his home, but did not roll the windows up all the way. An unknown suspect reached inside and removed the handicapped placard from the rearview mirror and fled with the item. 

Domestic Violence
On June 7 at 3:27 p.m., a female subject ran into the police department lobby to report an incident of domestic violence. She is in a dating relationship with the suspect. They were driving in a car in the 500 block of West Maple when they began to argue. The male suspect slapped the female victim in the face a couple of times, causing injury. The victim jumped from the car and ran to the police station. The male suspect was not located. A wanted person’s entry was made into the law enforcement computer data base for the suspect. 

Yet Another Monrovia Bear Video

Moma bear and cub caught on video. http://goo.gl/l2Ofhv

- Brad Haigaard

Monrovia Has Second Fastest Runner in State

Monrovia's Cravon Gillespie wins second place in statewide track competition. http://goo.gl/MPNXJI

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia School Board: Budget, Congratulate Track Members, Etc.

At its June 11, 7 p.m. meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/8MjsD8 ), the Monrovia School Board will ...

~ Consider a 2014-15 combined general budget with revenue of $53,142,291 and expenditures of $53,827,927 - $685,636 more than revenue. http://goo.gl/xugnn3

~ Congratulate Monrovia High Girls Varsity Track Team members Madison Herrera, Elise McCarthy, Sydney Mosley, and Jordyn Tucker as the CIF-Southern Section Division 3 Champions in the 4x100m Relay.

~ Congratulate the Monrovia High Varsity Track members who qualified for the CIF State Championships: Sydney Mosely - 100m Hurdles; Crayvon Gillespie - 100m Dash; Aubrey Mosely, Seth Raines, Octavius Spencer, Crayvon Gillspie - 4x100m Relay.

~ Hear a report on the district's Latino Family Literacy Project. http://goo.gl/hGBwMH

~ Hear a report on concussion training for coaches. http://goo.gl/ZmDPz2

~ Hear a report on the outcomes of the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress.

- Brad Haugaard

Salad Restaurant Coming to Monrovia

There is a new restaurant called The Salad Bistro going into the building that was occupied by The Irish Gardener. Just below Lemon on the east side of Myrtle. 

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Something Healthy


Lunch at Something Healthy, just north of Huntington on the east side of Shamrock. Got the cold roast beef sandwich ($6.60) and an iced tea ($1.50). Nice sandwich. It had a tangy sauce I really liked.

- Brad Haugaard

Religious Diversity Hikes

June 14, Boy Scouts Religious Diversity Hikes. Five-mile hikes with check-in at 5:45 a.m. and 7:30 a.m., at First Baptist Church at 223 S. Encinitas. Religious leaders from various faiths will speak on various topics. Open to boys and girls of any youth organizations and their families. Details: http://goo.gl/1Bg86M

- Brad Haugaard

Gold Line Sound Walls Installed in Monrovia

The Gold Line Construction Authority reports its crews have completed installation of these concrete sound walls from the Santa Anita Wash to Mayflower Ave. Source: press release

- Brad Haugaard

Ice Cream Bowls Fundraiser

Buy an artistic bowl and have it filled with ice cream. A fundraiser for Foothill Unity Center, Saturday, June 21, 4-7 pm. Details: http://goo.gl/y8StWn

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police Carry Special Olympics Torch

Monrovia police carried the Special Olympics torch through Monrovia and handed it off to Arcadia police this morning. http://goo.gl/9v7D7A

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Runners to Finals | Nick Bueno | Questioning National Recreation Area

~ Monrovia to send runners to the state finals in Clovis. http://goo.gl/rxzS4G

~ Photo of Nick Bueno, for three years starter quarterback for Monrovia, trying out pro football. http://goo.gl/xhz2iq

~ A column by former Glendora Mayor Lois M. Shade questioning Representative Judy Chu's proposed National Recreation Area, which would affect Foothill cities, including Monrovia. http://goo.gl/g4j7tW

- Brad Haugaard

Women Painters at Monrovia's Segil Fine Art


Tulips 14x16, monotype by Joan Baral

Summer Solstice, an annual show by Women Painters West at Segil Fine Art, 110 West Lime, June 7-30.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Graduation Graffiti; Car Left Running Stolen; Husband vs. Wife; Shoplifting

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for June 2-4. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 384 service events, resulting in 80 investigations.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered
On June 2 at 7:37 a.m., an officer was dispatched to a business in the 2600 block of South California regarding an unreported stolen vehicle that was taken on May 30. After taking the report, the officer made an area check and located the vehicle in an alleyway, just north of the location. The vehicle was recovered.

Felony Vandalism
On June 2 at 10:37 a.m., the high school in the 800 block of West Colorado reported graffiti on the north side of the school. The reporting party took pictures of the graffiti and had it cleaned up before graduation ceremonies. The damage was estimated at over $700. The investigation is continuing.

Burglary / Forgery / Receiving Stolen Property
On June 2 at 1:31 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 100 block of East Pomona. The victim reported that someone broke into his vehicle and took his personal checks. A subject went into a credit union in the 500 block of South Myrtle on May 29 and cashed one of the victim’s checks for $175.00. The subject returned on June 2 and tried to cash a second check, but was denied. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
On June 3 at 12:36 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 300 block of North Alta Vista. The victim stopped to pick up his daughter at the caretaker's home. He left the car running and the key fob in the driver's seat. He went in the location to get his daughter, and when he returned to the car, it was gone. The vehicle is a dark gray, 2014 Toyota Prius with a black car seat in the back seat and a green carpool sticker on the passenger side. The investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence
On June 3 at 1:56 p.m., the Monrovia Fire Department responded to the 600 block of West Duarte Road on an unknown medical call. Upon their entry into the residence, the female stated that she wanted to press charges. Officers responded and determined the husband and wife were involved in an altercation. The wife had a small cut on the top area of her nose and scratches on her arms. The husband was arrested and taken into custody. A Temporary Retraining Order was obtained on the wife's behalf.

Petty Theft – Suspect Arrested
On June 4 at 2:00 p.m., a business in the 500 block of West Huntington called police to report a female subject shoplifting and putting merchandise inside her purse. The suspect exited the store without paying for the merchandise. Officers responded and located the suspect in the 600 block of West Huntington. She was arrested.

Monrovia's AeroVironment Makes Cheaper Car Charger

Monrovia's AeroVironment introduces a cheaper way to charge electric cars; TurboCord for $599: http://goo.gl/8IVm6E

- Brad Haugaard

Opinion: Thoughts on Plastic Bag Ban Discussion at Monrovia Council Meeting

A 12-year supply of plastic bags.

A few observations about discussion at the City Council meeting the other night about banning plastic carry-out grocery bags. As always, I know people have different views on this topic, so please feel free to tell me I'm an idiot in the Comments section below.

1. One speaker said the average number of plastic bags used is 83 per person per year, as if that was shocking. Okay, assuming that is true, this little package of 1,000 shopping bags (available at Smart & Final, where I took this picture) represents a 12-year supply. I wish all our trash was so compact.

2. Chris Shevlin, who was on the ad hoc committee considering banning the bags, asked where the banning stops. What, he asked, are we going to ban next? Then, as if to prove his point, several speakers in favor of the ban said that the ban will not solve everything, but it is a start.

3. One speaker in favor of the ban said that even banana peels and newspapers, when buried in landfills, do not decay because the earth keeps the air away. Umm. Okay. But isn't one of the objections to plastic carry-out bags that they don't decay? So if banana peels and newspapers also don't decay, are we supposed to stop eating bananas and stop reading newspapers?

4. There was an approving reference or two to Pasadena and its plastic bag ban. For me, "Let's be more like Pasadena" is not a good argument. My wife and I moved here from Pasadena because we prefer Monrovia to Pasadena. My wife, incidentally, does volunteer work in Pasadena, and she and another woman were going through a cabinet trying to locate something and came upon a wad of plastic carry-out bags. "Oh!" the other woman said, "Can I have those? I live in Pasadena and we can't get them."

5. One speaker in favor of the ban said that there are lots of nice products for sale for picking up dog waste. So... forcing people to buy plastic bags to replace free plastic bags is less polluting?

6. A couple speakers said people simply need to be "trained," or to "train themselves" to use reusable bags. Not a big selling point for me as I'm not wild about being "trained" by my government.

- Brad Haugaard

Learn About Monrovia

Sign up for the Monrovia Area Partnership (MAP) conference to learn about the community and how to be involved. Saturday, August 9, 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Details: http://goo.gl/EEnMr9

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Plastic Bag Ban Returns

After being adopted, then rejected, the proposed plastic grocery carry-out bag ban is back again. The Monrovia City Council voted 3-2 tonight to put the proposed ban back on the council agenda for reconsideration. Voting in favor of reconsidering the ban were council members Alexander Blackburn, Larry Spicer, and Mayor Mary Ann Lutz. Council members Tom Adams and Becky Shevlin voted against.

If you haven't been following, the council first voted in favor of the ban (with Blackburn, Spicer and Lutz voting in favor and Adams and Shevlin voting against). Then, at the next meeting, when the measure came up for 'second reading' - a normally routine confirming vote - Blackburn and Spicer were absent, so Adams and Shevlin voted the ban down, with Lutz voting against them.

At tonight's meeting, Blackburn called the vote at the previous council meeting "surreptitious." Adams said it was not surreptitious because it was right there on the agenda and was voted on by those council members who were present. All council members had the opportunity to show up, he said, and if you don't show up your vote doesn't count.

Anyway, the result is that the ban will be reconsidered by the council. If you would like to contribute your thoughts, here is email contact information for the council members: http://goo.gl/XhKYcN . Also, when the issue is rescheduled, residents will be able to address the issue when it comes up at council meetings.

- Brad Haugaard

Virgin Mobile Commercial to Film on Myrtle

Diane Delmatoff of Monrovia's Community Development Department, reports that there will be a Virgin Mobile commercial filmed on the 400 and 500 block of South Myrtle between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. Tomorrow, Wednesday. 
 
- Brad Haugaard

Watch Out For 'Attack' Hawks on North Myrtle

Reader Karen E. Karlsson  warns of hawk attacks on North Myrtle. She writes:

  Just an item of interest regarding the interaction of humans and wildlife.  I live in the 300 block of North Myrtle and there is a hawk family living high up in a Chinese Elm tree on the east side in the middle of the block.  There are 3 young hawks in this nest and the parents are doing everything in their power to keep all of us away.  Their talons are vicious and dangerous.  Several of us have been "attacked" and one neighbor is being checked out by the paramedics right now as she has a few hits on her head and face.   Everybody out there who walks our street must be very aware of this situation.  It is no laughing matter.  Some of us carry umbrellas when we walk - actually a hard hat would be good too - but that's a bit much.  So - heads up everyone!!

- Brad Haugaard

Opinion: Please, Monrovia City Council, No Plastic Bag Ban!

Because the Monrovia City Council will tonight again consider putting a plastic shopping bag ban on its agenda for consideration, I thought I'd publish an email I sent to the council members urging them not to adopt a plastic bag ban. (Here is tonight's agenda,  http://goo.gl/li8CxH . Look for item RCC-4.) I know not everyone agrees with my view, so feel free to comment, pro or con, in the Comments section, below.

Dear Mayor Lutz and City Council Members,

I am writing to request that you do not adopt a plastic bag ban for Monrovia.

Every waste product I can think of has possible negative consequences:

- Human and animal waste can cause disease.
- Glass never decays and can have sharp edges that can cut people.
- Paper is flammable and is easily windblown.
- Yard waste, in large piles, can spontaneously burst into flame, and it gives off methane gas when buried.

The obvious answer to all these problems is that when handled properly these problems can be minimized or eliminated.

But that is precisely the case with plastic bags.

Handled properly, plastic bags present no more of a problem than other forms of waste, and arbitrarily banning them is an inconvenience and an unnecessary infringement on the rights of Monrovians.

Any problems presented by plastic bags are a triviality and the city should not be concerning itself with the little details of people's lives.

Thank you,

Brad Haugaard

Monrovia High Coach Moore Retiring

Monrovia High baseball coach Dave Moore retiring after 32 years. http://goo.gl/F4Amml

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Assaulted by Hallucinations; Drunk and Feisty; Drug Sales; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for May 29 – June 1. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Commercial Burglary / No-Bail Warrants – Suspect Arrested
On May 29 at 4:50 p.m., loss prevention personnel at a business in the 1600 block of South Mountain called police to report a shoplifter in custody. The loss prevention officer observed the suspect concealing merchandise in the pockets of his pants. The suspect then left the store without attempting to pay for the merchandise. An officer responded and arrested the suspect. A computer check revealed the suspect had two no-bail warrants for his arrest. The warrants were added to his charges.

Vehicle Burglary
On May 29 at 6:11 p.m., an officer responded to the 900 block of West Huntington regarding a vehicle burglary. The victim parked and secured his vehicle. Upon returning to it a half hour later, he noticed his rear passenger door window was shattered. A brown leather duffle bag containing a laptop and a credit card reader were stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
On May 31 at 12:08 p.m., officers responded to the 500 block of West Duarte regarding a subject being threatened by several subjects in the common area of his apartment complex. When officers arrived and spoke to the person reporting the incident, it was determined he was hallucinating because he was under the influence of a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Possession of a Controlled Substance for Sales / Convicted Felon in Possession of a Stun Gun – Suspects Arrested
On May 31 at 1:36 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle in the 800 block of West Chestnut for a vehicle code violation. During the course of his investigation, he discovered the driver and the passenger were in possession of narcotics, a scale, cash, and information relating to the sales of narcotics. A stun gun was located in the vehicle and both subjects were found to be convicted felons. Both subjects were arrested and taken into custody for the above listed charges.

Injury Traffic Collision
On May 31 at 5:22 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 700 block of Valley View. A female subject was driving her vehicle on Valley View and ran into a parked trailer. It appeared as though the driver had some type of seizure. She was taken to a hospital for evaluation. There were three people inside the trailer when it was hit, but no one was injured.

Drunk in Public – Suspects Arrested
On May 31 at 10:42 p.m., dispatch received a call reporting a male and female arguing and possibly fighting in 600 block of South Myrtle. Officers arrived to find a husband and wife arguing. Both subjects were so intoxicated they could not explain what they were arguing over. The female became belligerent and aggressive. Both were arrested and taken into custody for being drunk in public.

Drunk in Public – Suspect Arrested
On June 1 at 1:44 a.m., dispatch received a call reporting a male and female arguing in the 100 block of North Ivy. When officers arrived, the male subject had left the location. The female had been drinking and became belligerent. The subject’s friends asked officers if they could arrest the subject because she was angry and combative with them. Officers tried speaking with the subject and she became irate and combative with the officers. The subject was arrested for being drunk in public.

Domestic Violence / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspects Arrested
On June 1 at 12:25 p.m., officers responded to the 1800 block of Eighth Avenue regarding the report of domestic violence. The officer observed minor visible injuries to the male subject and determined the female subject to be the aggressor. The officer arrested the female for domestic violence. The male subject was found to be in possession of a glass methamphetamine pipe and was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
On June 1 at 4:22 p.m., an officer on patrol noticed a pedestrian gate left open in the 100 block of West Foothill. Earlier in the day, the officer noticed that same gate was closed. As the officer exited his vehicle to investigate, he found two subjects loitering in the area. One of the subjects was under the influence of a controlled substance and was arrested. The other subject was released.

Zombie Apocalypse at Monrovia's First Presbyterian

Monrovia's First Presbyterian Church will begin a new "mini series" this Sunday entitled: "How to Survive a Zombie Apocalypse, and other Thoughts About the End of the World". http://goo.gl/Gg6GJB

Comment: Sounds like useful information :-)

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia FD Providing CPR Training Thursday

The Monrovia Fire Department will provide free CPR Training Thursday, June 5 at the Library Park fountain, 312 S Myrtle, between 9 AM and noon. http://goo.gl/8sYRXS

- Brad Haugaard

Swap Produce in the Park this Saturday


Spring and summer are the best times for cultivating produce in our gardens! Produce in the Park is a group of people dedicated to sharing locally grown food to decrease food waste; exchange gardening, cooking and other useful tips; and create an awesome community of awesome people. If all these things sound like you, then come check out our upcoming PitP meet-up this Saturday, June 7, 9-11 AM by the Mark Twain bench in Library Park (on the corner of Lime & Myrtle). To find out more, visit our blog and join email list. Source: PitP press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Old Home Tour Attendance Nice, But Lower | Dillard in Need of Heart Operation

~ Jim Wigton, of the Monrovia Historic Preservation Group, reported this morning that attendance at the group's annual Old Homes Tour was about 500, a nice crowd, but down from previous years when it has been over 700. He attributed the decline to other old home tours, which has given people more choices.

~ Terrance Williams, who serves on the Monrovia School Board, reports that Bishop Wm. LaRue Dillard, who has long led Second Baptist Church of Monrovia, is publicly asking for prayer because he needs a heart transplant. Williams, who attends the church, said Dillard is at the top of the list for the operation.

- Brad Haugaard

Coming up in Monrovia

~ Job search workshops: http://goo.gl/wTnO36

~ A Friendship Tea sponsored by United Methodist Church and Foothills Pregnancy Resource Center, June 7, 11 a.m. To 2 p.m. At 140 E Palm. $15 advance or $20 at the door. Fashion show, thrift store shopping, gold purchasing. Tickets: 358-2122.

~ Fundraiser for Centre Stage June 10 at Flamzz pizza restaurant. 15% of purchases to Centre Stage. Details: 930-0973.

~ Summer movie schedule: June 14, Surfs Up at St. Luke's Episcopal Church; June 28, Frozen at Second Baptist Church; July 12, The Avengers, on IvyAvenue between Fig and Los Angeles; July 26, The Lego Movie, at Monrovia High.

~ Black Alumni Association picnic, June 28, 11 AM to 6 PM at Shamrock and Olive. Games, raffle, food. More info, call Eloise Hart at 529-5671.

~ Knights of Columbus charity golf, San Dimas Canyon Golf Course. June 27. BBQ to follow. Info, call Hal Leavens at 359-8648.

~ Fourth of July concert and fireworks. Featuring Stone Soul. Library Park, starting at 7 PM, fireworks at 9 PM.

~ Professional performance of The Wizard Of Oz at the Taylor Performing Arts Center, a.k.a. Monrovia High auditorium, on July 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20. Details: http://goo.gl/FmQlfF

- Brad Haugaard

Historic Group to Oppose Large Homes | Fountain to be Replaced | Monrovia in WWII

~ Gloria Crudgington, in the Monrovia Historic Preservation Group's newsletter, writes: "Historically, MOHPG has focused much of its energy on the preservation of our old home stock. Now, we also are directing our attention to the preservation of our neighborhoods." She says the group would like to prevent small houses being replaced by "McMansions."

~ The Monrovia Historic Preservation Group's newsletter reports that the insurance company of the driver who clonked the historic drinking fountain structure in Library Park at Myrtle and Lime has agreed to a settlement, so hopefully the fountain can be rebuilt to its original condition (I've been told all the rocks making up the fountain have been saved.)

~ The Monrovia Historical Museum has officially unveiled its newest exhibit, "Monrovia at War," about the city during World War II. The museum is at 742 E. Lemon, and is open Thursdays and Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Admission is free.

- Brad Haugaard

New Coffee Shop on Myrtle

A new coffee shop is apparently going in on Myrtle - Eureka Coffee Lounge. http://goo.gl/MunNb6

- Brad Haugaard