Clifford DeCosta Election Statement - Running for Monrovia City Council


Clifford DeCosta Candidate for City Council, Monrovia

Who has the time, interest and experience to serve Monrovia?
Clifford DeCosta for City Council - Here’s how…

As a banker, I dedicated 16 years to a national bank, starting as a note teller then quickly moved up to the special assets department where I handled international loans, supervised bankruptcy and foreclosures, specializing in forbearance plans. Eventually, I was promoted to real estate officer.

The next 20 years were devoted to the California State Department of Corrections where I served as a peace officer, sergeant, and correctional counselor. I screened individuals for mandated educational and drug rehabilitation programs, along with work furlough and mother-infant programs. I recruited for the camp program, which trains teams to fight wildfires to preserve our state forests and wildlife.

Now, in retirement, I have the time to serve my fellow Monrovians with my life lessons and experiences. I’m convinced I want the same things that most of my neighbors want:
  • Safe schools with a pipeline from high school to college (instead of prison)
  • The best health care
  • Safe clean parks to enjoy and relax with friends and family
  • Regularly maintained streets, sidewalks, trees, and street lights to reflect our community pride
  • A well staffed police force, fire department, and maintenance crew, to give us the security that our city cares for us as much as we care for our community

I especially want our local businesses to prosper with the addition of the Gold Line and family street fairs.

As you can see, I am not afraid of commitment:
  • 16 years in banking
  • 20 years in law enforcement
  • 35 years living in Monrovia
  • 41 years of marriage

Who can commit and serve Monrovia full time?
I can.

decosta4citycouncil@gmail.com



Monrovia High Wildcat Newspaper Online

The latest Monrovia High Wildcat newspaper is now online: http://goo.gl/RMI14o

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Red Lobster



Lunch at Red Lobster, on Huntington near Arcadia. Got the Hand Battered Fish and Chips for $9.79 and an iced tea for $2.69. Came with biscuits. "Fish" can be plural or singular, and in this case it is singular. One fish but BIG. Tasty. 
- Brad Haugaard 

Astronomy Tonight at Monrovia's Bradoaks School | Rain 60%

~ Astronomy Night tonight, 6-9 p.m., at the Bradoaks School field (south side of Lemon just east of Mountain), hosted by Gate students, who will have drinks and snacks for sale.

~ Chance of rain today up to 60%. http://goo.gl/SLvQTX

- Brad Haugaard

Jewish Federation Open House Coming Up

The Jewish Federation of the Greater San Gabriel and Pomona Valley will hold an Open House Sunday at its new office at 114A W. Lime Ave., February 8, from from 2-5 p.m.

There will also be a phone-a-thon to give Jews in the area an opportunity to make a gift to the Federation to support its programs and services, such as the Jewish Book Festival, Cultural Arts program, Camp Gan Shalom, etc.

Also, the federation will host a rotating art installation of local Jewish artisans. The first is Karen Hochman Brown who makes mandala-like works that begin with photographs that she then spins and adorns into colorful digital prints mounted on aluminum. For more information, contact the Jewish Federation at 626.445.0810 or federation@jewishsgpv.org

- Brad Haugaard

Mandarin in Monrovia | Third Anniversary | Rain? | Black History Display

~ Monrovia School District is providing a Mandarin language immersion program for children to learn to speak, read and write the language. At Plymouth School, 1300 Boley Street. Contact Principal Suzanne Heck for details: 471-2400.

~ Fellowship Monrovia is planning a big party for its third year anniversary on Saturday, Jan. 31 at its 401 E. Huntington building.

~ Forty percent chance of rain in Monrovia tomorrow (Friday): http://goo.gl/S6IWg0

~ Monrovia Library has put up a Black History Month display in its lobby - books and a post-it wall.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Returning Stolen Headphones | Not Stolen, Drunk

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 26-28. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 380 service events, resulting in 58 investigations. 

Fraud - Suspect Arrested
January 26 at 12:58 p.m., police received a call from a business in the 300 block of West Huntington, reporting a suspect at their front counter who was attempting to return items with a stolen credit card. The suspect had purchased $800 worth of headphones the previous day, using false identification and a stolen credit card. Store employees realized the credit card was stolen after the purchase was made and the suspect had left the store. The suspect had now returned to the store and was attempting to return the headphones for cash. Employees recognized the suspect and called police. Officers arrived at the location and detained the suspect without incident. The suspect was still in possession of the fictitious identification and credit cards. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody for fraud charges. After further investigation, it was learned that this suspect had charged over $100,000 in stolen merchandise throughout the San Gabriel Valley. 

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 28 at 8:29 p.m., a female subject called police to report her car was stolen from the 400 block of South Myrtle. An officer was dispatched to the location and he contacted the subject. While he was speaking with her, he noticed signs of intoxication. The officer located the subject’s vehicle on Myrtle, just north of where they were standing. A computer check of the subject revealed she had an outstanding warrant for her arrest; she was arrested and taken into custody for the warrant. 

Monrovia's Myrtle Avenue- Not Named After a Tree


You thought maybe Myrtle Avenue was named after a tree, as many Monrovia streets are named after trees or flowers? Not so. It was named after our founder's eldest daughter, Myrtle Monroe, according to the Monrovia Historic Preservation Group's latest newsletter. Thanks to MOHPG for this photo of Myrtle.

- Brad Haugaard

History of Monrovia's Big M

The Monrovia Historic Preservation Group's latest newsletter has an interesting article on the big M on the hills above town.

The M is 60 feet by 80 feet and was built by the Monrovia High class of 1952. Merchants and community groups donated 500 feet of redwood 2x4s, 25 tons of crushed rock, 500 feet of steel electri- cal conduit, electrical fixtures, and paint. It was later made of concrete to be more permanent. The letter was lit when the school competed and if the football team won, the legs of the M could be dimmed so that only the V, for "victory" showed. It was restored by the MHS Class of 1982, and in 1995 the Monrovia Fire Department Explorers spent two Saturdays clearing weeds and giving the M a fresh coat of paint.

- Brad Haugaard

New Monrovia Church | PTSA Fundraiser

~ A new church has started in Monrovia. Resonate Covenant Church is meeting at 4:30 p.m. at 1307 S. Myrtle, at the corner of Cherry (apparently in the same building occupied by LifeChurch, which meets earlier in the day). It is holding a series of preview services, next  on February 8. http://goo.gl/eiQIn3

~ Fundraiser for Monrovia High's Parent Teacher Student Association Thursday, Jan. 29, 3-9 p.m. at Paco's Mexican Restaurant, 200 E Foothill, Arcadia. PTSA gets 10% of all dine-in and take-out proceeds (alcohol not included). No flyer or coupon necessary.

- Brad Haugaard

Planning for Suicide Prevention at Monrovia Community Center

Planning meeting for suicide prevention campaign on Wednesday, Feb. 4 at 5 p.m. at the Monrovia Community Center. Details: http://goo.gl/YKX6Og

- Brad Haugaard

Filming on Myrtle, and in North Monrovia

Diane Delmatoff, of the Monrovia Community Development Department, reports that:

"There will be a filming in Old Town on Monday, February 2nd in front of London Gastropub. It is for an insurance commercial. They will be dressing the scene beginning at noon and will be using a couple of parking spaces. Then at 5:00 PM Myrtle Avenue will be completely closed between Lemon and Lime. Lemon and Lime will still be open. The block will reopen at 7:00 AM. And just in case you see a camera car drive down Myrtle sometime before 5:00 PM, that is for a different filming. There has been a feature film (The Other) being filmed in North Monrovia for a couple of weeks now and they are going to get some footage of our beautiful downtown (all with the flow of traffic)."

- Brad Haugaard

Fixing Restroom Roof in Monrovia Canyon Park

A restroom roof was damaged in Monrovia Canyon Park during the big windstorm a few years ago. Now it's being fixed.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovian Cleared in Girlfriend's Death

Autopsy clears Monrovia man of all charges in girlfriend's death.
http://goo.gl/itRZpD

- Brad Haugaard

Antique Market for Church Building Fund

There will be an antique market in the parking lot of St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 122 South California Ave. on Saturday, February 7, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Part of the proceeds will benefit the church building fund. Items for sale include decorative pieces, jewelry, furniture accents, collectibles and more. Rector Neil Tadken said the funds will help with major infrastructure maintenance, including roof replacement and plumbing/electrical upgrades.

- Brad Haugaard

Antonovich Honors Historic Monrovian

County Supervisor Michael Antonovich honored Monrovia Historical Museum for display on Monrovian Allen Allensworth, the first African American to reach the rank of lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army. http://goo.gl/Buae41

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia High Robotics Teams All Qualify for Championships | House Fire

~ All five of Monrovia High's Robotics teams have qualified for the LA FTC Regional Championships. Congratulations RED, Kings & Queens, Suit Bots, Thavma and Spectrum. Championships will be at Monrovia High on Feb. 14th. Come cheer for your favorite robotics team. Admission is free. http://goo.gl/7EdLmH

~ There was a fire on the 100 block S. Ivy Ave. in Monrovia. According to a report a one story house with a kitchen fire. Robert Perry caught a picture. http://goo.gl/B3Mrke

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's Xylem Salon Spa to Honor Helping, Courageous Person

Monrovia's Xylem Salon Spa is sponsoring a Valentine's contest. Prize: a Day of Beauty and Wellness. Nominate someone "who lives in our local community and has devoted their time to helping others." Someone selfless, courageous, who has changed our community, or a teacher who goes above and beyond. Details: http://goo.gl/M7Adjf

- Brad Haugaard

Stephen Grollnek Election Statement - Running for Monrovia City Council


My name is Stephen Grollnek and I am running for City Council. Most of you know me from writing The Monrovia Shadow, implementing the restaurant rating system and helping people get things done when no one in the City will help them.



Sadly, Monrovia has become a city of potholes, dead trees, rotting pipes, cracked sidewalks and homes being torn down to be replaced by oversized mansions which ruin the City’s history and beauty. All citizens hear from the City is, “We have no money.” Look at the right side of your property tax bill. What are the select few in city government doing with these monies? Businesses are closing at a rapid rate in Old Town. Loans are given to special interest groups and contracts awarded to friends of the City Council and Mayor.

Gloria Crutchington in advance of running for office, was put in charge of the Hillside Preservation Project and attempted to take away our rights on this bond issue. She has also been the linchpin working with special interest condemning older houses in Monrovia to replace them with pseudo-mansions on overbuilt lots.

Robert Perry never met a citizen he likes and only attends City Council meetings when there are bicycle issues discussed. Doesn’t he understand he can’t ride a bike on cracked streets with potholes and branches fallen in the street from untrimmed City trees.

Becky Shevlin, the councilwoman with the million dollar smile, tries to get things done but is stopped at every turn by certain cliques on the Council.

The future of the City is in the hands of you the voter. Help me lead our great city back to the All American City it was.

Stephen H. Grollnek
spreeguy@aol.com 213: 705-2227.

Monrovia Police: Drunk Driving Busts; Missing Teen Found; Multi-Grand Thefts; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 22-25. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
January 24 at 2:00 a.m., an officer on patrol stopped a driver in the area of Hillcrest and Stedman for a speeding violation. He had been drinking at a friend’s house. The driver was determined to be driving under the influence of alcohol and was arrested.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
January 24 at 2:30 a.m., an officer on patrol observed a driver driving on the wrong side of the road. The driver was stopped in the area of California and Monrovista. The driver was determined to be intoxicated and was arrested for driving under the influence.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
January 24 at 3:20 a.m., an officer observed a driver passed out behind the wheel in the 800 block of California. The driver was found behind the wheel and refused all DUI tests. The driver was arrested and taken into custody.

Critical Missing Person – Subject Located
January 24 at 7:48 p.m., a parent came in to report his son missing from a residence in the 500 block of East Walnut. The teenage son is autistic and had run away from their home. Officers quickly began looking for the subject, and he was located within about thirty minutes.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
January 25 at 3:25 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation in the area of Montana and Myrtle. During the course of the stop, it was determined the driver had been drinking and was under the influence of alcohol. The suspect was arrested for DUI.

Grand Theft Auto
January 25 at 9:05 a.m., an officer responded to the 200 block of West Greystone on the report of a stolen vehicle. The vehicle is a Bronze, 1992 Acura. The vehicle was parked in front of the victim’s home and was left unlocked. The theft occurred sometime during the night. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft – Suspect Arrested
January 25 at 12:32 p.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 500 block of West Huntington regarding a possible theft. Store security reported a known suspect in the store that had committed repetitive grand thefts. The suspect was collecting expensive items in the store. This suspect is responsible for a string of thefts at different locations of the business from the Monrovia to Pasadena area. The suspect enters a store and fills up a shopping cart with expensive items, and then pushes the property outside the store to an awaiting getaway car.

Monrovia officers arrived at the location, set up containment and waited for the suspect to exit. The suspect exited the store with the stolen merchandise. When he saw police, he dropped the stolen property and ran. Officers detained the suspect, and he arrested without further incident.

Upcoming Monrovia Events: Mudflow, Open House, State of City, Robotics, Etc.

~ Saturday, Jan. 31. City-sponsored discussion of Mudflow and Debris Mitigation Measures at Monrovia Public Library Community Room. City Manager, representatives of Public Works, Fire, LA County will answer questions. 9 -11 a.m. For additional information: Kerri Zessau at 256-8233 or kzessau@ci.monrovia.ca.us .

~ Jewish Federation Open House, Sunday, Feb. 8, 2-5 p.m. at 114A West Lime Ave.

~ Monrovia State of the City Address, Feb. 9, 7 p.m. at the Krikorian Theater. For information or reservations contact Heather Greer at 303-6602.

First Tech Challenge robotics tournament at Monrovia High, Feb. 14, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

~ Dinner and fellowship to honor Monrovia Chaplain President, Minister Terrance Brown. Saturday, Feb. 21. Hosted by Bethel Monrovia African Methodist Episcopal Church at Monrovian Restaurant. Tickets at http://www.bethelmonrovia.com . More information at 930-1120 .

~ Monrovia Chamber Business Seminar Series begins Wednesday, March 11, hosted by the Chamber and City of Monrovia at Exelis Inc., 1400 S. Shamrock Ave., Monrovia; 11:50 a.m.-1 p.m. Free but reservations required (contact Chamber of Commerce at 358-1159 ).

~ Monday, March 30 is the last day to register to vote in the April 14 Local General Election. More info at http://www.lavote.net or contact City Clerk at 932-5505 or aatkins@ci.monrovia.ca.us .

Thanks to Becky Shevlin for her excellent calendar, from which I swiped these items.

Astronomy Tonight in Monrovia

Take a close-up peek at the moon and maybe Jupiter tonight at the Myrtle-Lime corner of Library Park. Monrovia Sidewalk Astronomers will set up their telescopes between about 6-8 p.m. Because of different layers of air temperature and upper level winds, you may notice a slightly watery effect when you view the moon or planets through a telescope, and the stars may be more twinkle-y when you look up at the night sky.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Moms Club Playdate

Moms Club of Monrovia will hold a playdate in the playground at Arcadia County Park on Monday, Jan. 26.

Should Monrovia Allow Push Carts?

A Monrovian writes in letter to the editor that push cart vendors don't belong here: http://goo.gl/WGOuMS

- Brad Haugaard

Jordan Kittleson Election Statement - Running for Monrovia City Council


Renowned philosopher Sun Tzu once wrote “Every battle is won before it’s ever fought.” These words speak volumes to the vital importance of dedication, work ethic, preparation, and strategic planning in achieving pure Monrovian exceptionalism.
Holding a Master’s degree in Public Administration, my background neatly attaches itself with the concept of public service. From serving as a Residential Community Advisor and Secretary of Legislative Affairs in graduate school to providing constituent services to the City of Monrovia as an intern in a Congressional office, I fundamentally believe that my skill set is well-equipped to tackle the toughest of City Council assignments.
Although Monrovia continues to hold an unwavering commitment to excellence and sets the standard on many fronts, there is more work to be done.  The epicenter of my platform will prioritize initiatives designed to stimulate community development, emphasize financial responsibility and accountability, expand city volunteerism, and, perhaps most importantly, optimize our potential of educational support for our youth.
Bearing this in mind, it would be my distinguished honor and esteemed privilege to earn your vote on April 14th for the office of Monrovia City Council.  This truly is our time to shine.


JORDAN K. KITTLESON, MPA
City Council Nominee
Jordan K. Kittleson for Monrovia City Council 2015

a: 133 W. Hillcrest Blvd Monrovia, CA 91016

"Let your soul stand cool and composed before a million universes."
--Walt Whitman

http://kittlesonforcouncil2015.nationbuilder.com/

A Blustery Day in Monrovia Tonight and Saturday

Windy in Monrovia tonight and tomorrow ( http://goo.gl/cFn7tk ), up to 35 mph. In fact, windy throughout much of the county: http://goo.gl/heGnhJ

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Cafe Massilia


Lunch at Cafe Massilia, on the south side of Lemon just east of Myrtle. It's the place with the French flag out front. Got Le Boeuf (beef) Bourguignon for $10.95 and iced tea for $2.60. Came with French bread. Very nice. 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police Explorers Compete in Arizona

On January 16-19, 18 Monrovia Police Explorers joined Explorers from all over the Western United States in the 17th Annual Law Enforcement Explorer Tactical Competition in Chandler, Arizona. http://goo.gl/w1s0m2

- Brad Haugaard

A Bit More Rain for Monrovia?

Sixty percent chance of rain starting Monday, trailing off to 20% by Friday. http://goo.gl/zF7Tbg

- Brad Haugaard

Sex Offender Database - Look Up Those in Monrovia

Monrovia Police Department wants you to know about the Megan's Law database, the state's registered sex offender database, where you can look up local offenders.

Click here, read the disclaimers, click the little box at the bottom and press "Continue." Then you can search.

Monrovia PD adds: "In addition to the Megan's Law information, the State website offers great advice and tips to parents on helping prevent our children from becoming victims of sexual assault. The State of California Attorney General's Office provides information to help protect yourself and your family. They advise to, 'inform children that it is wrong for adults to engage children in sexual activity. Stress to your child that he or she should feel comfortable telling you anything, especially if it involves another adult. If your child does not feel comfortable being completely honest with you, then together you should find another trusted adult your child can talk to in confidence. Make an effort to know the people with whom your child is spending time. Knowledge is power. This is especially true for protecting children from sexual assault...'"

More general information here.

Comment: Thirty in the list at the moment, most with pictures.

- Brad Haugaard

Tom Adams Election Statement - Running for Monrovia Mayor

In the 20 years that Tom has served our community, the last six have been the hardest. In the 1970’s some thought Monrovia was dying, and the last person out of town should turn out the lights. For years Monrovia has worked tirelessly to become the city we all love. Today we are going backwards. Look at our streets, sidewalks, parks and municipal property.

Monrovia has Tens of Millions of Dollars of Deferred Maintenance yet there is no plan to address the problem. The current Mayor’s budget did not address this.
Tom Adams will prioritize a plan and provide the leadership that will initiate a solution.

The current Mayor has brought us seven different City Managers in the past six years and voted for a failed attempt to include Monrovia property in a National Recreation Area against Monrovia’s wishes. Monrovia deserves better. Tom Adams’ vision as Mayor will insure that Monrovia always comes first.

We must stop the sweet heart loans to prior employees!
We must stop giving the Federal Government control over our Wilderness Preserve!
We must stop the seemingly endless cycle of turnover at City Hall!
We must do a better job of protecting our neighborhoods, for Monrovians!
We must rebuild Monrovia, for Monrovians!

Monrovia is at a cross roads, the path that we take will determine our future. Six years of failed leadership is enough, we need to reverse our direction and take us back to the Monrovia that we all love.

This election we all have a choice to make, we can continue down the path of failed leadership and photo ops, or we can change directions, Tom Adams is the change we need.

Tom Adams promises that Monrovia’s needs will always come first!

MonroviaNow Candidate Election Statements

As soon as the filing period ended for those wishing to run for the office of mayor or city council for Monrovia, I sent an invitation to each candidate offering space in MonroviaNow.com to make a campaign statement. (If you are a candidate and didn't get an invitation, check your email.)

Requirements were that they could use up to 300 words, could include one picture and the statement needed to be submitted by Monday, February 16 at the latest. I do not plan to edit the statements at all and intend to publish them in the order I receive them, then, later in the campaign I plan to post a list of links to all the candidates' statements, so they'll be easy to compare.

So, keep an eye out, the first one is coming up today.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Gold Line Yard | Historical Museum to Honor Abolitionists

~ Story on nearly-completed Gold Line Maintenance Yard. http://goo.gl/kMpILN

~ Monrovia Historical Museum will honor abolitionists during Black History Month. http://goo.gl/fkGdrm

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Stereo Stolen from Vehicle; Helping US Marshals

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 19-21. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 359 service events, resulting in 67 investigations.

Theft from a vehicle
January 19 at 6:54 a.m., an officer responded to a residence in the 100 block of El Nido regarding the theft of a stereo from a vehicle. The victim parked his vehicle overnight on the street with the doors unlocked and the windows down. The victim returned to his vehicle in the morning and discovered his car stereo had been ripped out of the dashboard. The investigation is continuing.

Outside Assist – United States Marshals
January 21 at 3:25 p.m., United States Marshals had information that a wanted fraud suspect was at a location in the 600 block of South Primrose in Monrovia. They notified the Monrovia Police Department and requested assistance. Officers and Monrovia’s Special Enforcement Team responded to assist. The suspect was found at the location and taken into custody by U.S. Marshals.

Monrovia Workout Trainer on TV Friday

Trainer Marisa Inda, who works at Monrovia's Foothill Gym, will appear this Friday as a guest on The Ellen Degeneres Show, 4-5 p.m. Channel 4. Here she is turning pull-ups into sort of a dance routine. Cool: http://goo.gl/xK8vbo

- Brad Haugaard

Candidates for Monrovia Mayor, City Council

The filing period to run for the Monrovia City Council and Monrovia City Council closed at 6 p.m. today. Here are the qualified candidates in the order I received them from City Clerk Alice Atkins. ("Qualified" means their nomination papers had at least 20 signatures from eligible registered Monrovia voters who reside in the city, as verified by the City Clerk). They will be voted on at the April 14 general municipal election:

Mayor
Leonard Holen
Mary Ann Lutz
Tom Adams

Council
Scott Austin
Clifford DeCosta
Becky A. Shevlin
Stephen Grollnek
Jordan Kittleson
Gloria Crudgington
Robert C.J. Parry
Chris Ziegler
Tom Gulley

Soon I plan to offer all the candidates space in MonroviaNow to introduce themselves.

- Brad Haugaard

African-American History at Monrovia Historical Museum

African-American history celebration at Monrovia Historical Museum on Feb. 8, from 1-4 p.m. It's at 742 East Lemon, in Recreation Park.

Monrovia Council: Encinitas Historical District? | Wilderness Entrance Won't Be Forgotten

Tuesday night's Monrovia City Council meeting:

~ The Monrovia City Council wants to determine if the residents in the first couple blocks north of Foothill on Encinitas want to be part of an historical district. The issue came during an appeal to block the demolition of a house at 256 N. Encinitas. (The appeal was tabled until Feb. 17)

~ A Monrovia resident (me) said he was concerned that progress in opening the Cloverleaf entrance to the Hillside Wilderness area to hikers and bicyclists "could again slip between the cracks and be forgotten." City Manager Oliver Chi promised it would not slip between the cracks and said he hoped the issue would be resolved within the next several months. He said the city is contacting property owners to negotiate access to the trail.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Electronics Stolen; Husband Scares Wife by Walking Home; Tourist Bus Theft; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 15-18. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Commercial Burglary
January 15 at 11:03 a.m., an officer was dispatched to a business in the 2600 block of South Myrtle on the report of a commercial burglary. Unknown suspect(s) forced entry into two suites in an office building by forcing the doors open by unknown means. Upon entering, the suspect(s) took computers and electronic equipment from both locations. The suspect(s) then left undetected. The investigation is continuing.

Critical Missing Person Located
January 15 at 6:56 p.m., an adult female came into the police lobby to report her husband had walked away from her after an argument in the parking lot across from the police station. She was concerned, because her husband is a 67-year-old male with a severe case of Alzheimer’s. He had walked away 20 minutes earlier and had not returned.

Officers began an extensive area search, using all available resources: the Foothill Air Support Team helicopter, twitter notification sent, neighboring agencies phoned and notified by teletype, units were sent to the missing person’s home in San Gabriel, two teams of scent dogs were used, and local hospitals were contacted. At 10:00 p.m., no leads had developed. Police units continued searching and the wife went home to wait there.

At 1:59 a.m., the woman phoned and reported her husband had just arrived home. He had walked home from Monrovia to San Gabriel. San Gabriel Police Department officers and paramedics confirmed he was home and checked his condition.

Grand Theft from a Tourist Bus
January 17 at 3:46 p.m., police responded to a shopping center in the 500 block of West Huntington. Several tourists reported that someone had boarded their open and unlocked tourist bus, which was parked in the shopping center parking lot while all the tourists were off the bus and shopping for about an hour.

While the victims were shopping, an unknown suspect rummaged through the tourists’ personal belongings and took six cell phones, one laptop computer, and one passport. The driver was waiting in the driver's seat. It is possible that the driver had fallen asleep while the theft occurred. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
January 18 at 7:02 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported at a business parking lot in the 500 block of West Huntington. The victim had parked and went into a store in the shopping center. When he returned to his vehicle, he found the passenger side window had been shattered and personal items that were left in the vehicle had been taken. The investigation is continuing.

Monrovia Students Benefit from Citrus' Haugh Scholarship

201 Haugh Scholars

This fall 25 Citrus College freshmen from Monrovia began a mentoring program to facilitate their transition from high school to college, thanks to Judy Haugh, Citrus College alumna and daughter of the late Dr. Robert D. Haugh.

The Haugh Scholars Program honors Dr. Robert D. Haugh, Citrus College's third superintendent/president, who served the college from 1967-1981. Under his leadership, the present Citrus Community College District was established, enrollment and diversity increased, the college expanded its programs, and new facilities were built, including the performing arts center that bears Haugh’s name.

The Haugh Scholars Program is for Citrus College freshmen from Monrovia, where Dr. Haugh and his family were longtime residents. Throughout the semester-long program, the Haugh Scholars will attend seminars to facilitate communication and foster community. Seminars cover such topics as developing educational and career goals; applying for financial aid; accessing Citrus College’s educational resources; and transferring to a four-year institution.

Judy Haugh provided input into the structure of the program. She is a longtime community college educator who recently retired as articulation officer and associate professor of counseling for Riverside City College.

Source: Paula Green at Citrus College

- Brad Haugaard


Paradis Ice Cream Coming to Monrovia


On the west side of Myrtle south of Lime. There is another store in Montrose. Here are some pictures on their Facebook page of their ice creams. Look good! http://goo.gl/b3P6uY

- Brad Haugaard

Trader Joe's Murals By Monrovia Artist

Murals at Monrovia Trader Joe's store by Monrovia artist Bryan Hillberg. http://goo.gl/l2dxdd

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's World Vision Part of Ebola Vaccine Effort | Johnson to Cathedral

~ The Christian relief organization, World Vision, partly based in Monrovia, has been chosen to be part of a $250 million dollar initiative across several groups to help bring an Ebola vaccine solution to West Africa. http://goo.gl/s5U0jA

~ Monrovia High running back Kameron Johnson transferred to Cathedral High. http://goo.gl/0Il5lP

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Taisho Teriyaki Grill


Lunch at Taisho Teriyaki Grill, in the shopping center at the corner of Huntington and Fifth Avenue. Got the Combo Sushi Bowl with spicy tuna and salmon ($10.95) and a drink (1.65). Came with seaweed. Very good.
- Brad Haugaard

Free Gas in Monrovia Today?

In a Twitter posting, KIIS is offering free gas somewhere in Monrovia today. I can't figure out where. Anyone know? http://goo.gl/r8QqbE

UPDATE: I have a report that it is at the Shell station at the corner of Monterey and Huntington, 7-9 a.m. Up to $40 in free gas.

UPDATE 2: Apparently it is over now. I guess they were swamped quick.

- Brad Haugaard

Filming on 'The Other' Beginning in Monrovia | Extension to File to Run for Council

~ About 14 days of filming will begin Tuesday at 127 and 131 Highland for a feature film called "The Other." Diane Delmatoff of the Monrovia Community Development Department says: "It will be mostly interior shots. The neighborhood is going to be pretty impacted, so I'm not sure they would want any looky-loos."

~ Deadline for filing for those who want to run for Monrovia City Council extended. http://goo.gl/QknCnn

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Breathalyzer Ignition Switch Outfoxed; Stopping Attempted Suicide; Vehicle Burglary

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 12-14. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 395 service events, resulting in 67 investigations.

Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence of Drugs – Suspect Arrested
January 12 at 8:24 a.m., an officer on patrol discovered a collision that had just occurred between two vehicles at the intersection of Huntington and California. It was determined that one of the drivers was traveling east on Huntington and failed to stop for a red light. The vehicle struck another vehicle traveling north on California with a green light. The driver who failed to stop for the red light had a court ordered breathalyzer ignition starting machine in his vehicle from previous DUI convictions. He was determined to be driving under the influence of prescription narcotics that prohibit him from driving. He was arrested for driving under the influence.

Mental Evaluation
January 13 at 12:44 p.m., officers were dispatched to an apartment in the 700 block of South Myrtle regarding a female who was reported to be suicidal. When officers arrived, the female subject refused to open the door. Officers forced entry into the apartment to ensure the female subject was okay. Upon entering, they found her swallowing multiple methadone pills in an attempt to kill herself. They stopped her from swallowing the pills and cleared her mouth of the pills. Paramedics responded and took the female to a local hospital, where she was treated.

Vehicle Burglary
January 14 at 6:11 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 100 block of West Huntington Drive. The victim parked and locked her car, and then went into work. When she returned at the end of the day, the car was open. A gym bag and items from the glove compartment were missing. It is unknown how the suspect(s) gained entry into the car, as there was no sign of forced entry. The investigation is continuing.

Looking for Low-Income Home Buyers | Cookie Kick-Off | Monrovia Representative Introduces School Construction Bill

~ San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity is trying to find low-income first time home buyers who are living in poor or inadequate housing conditions and are willing to contribute 500 hours of sweat equity to build their home. Three of the nine homes in the planned Desiderio project are reserved for low-income veterans. Details: http://goo.gl/d1FCdN

~ Local Girl Scouts held a cookie kick-off rally at Holy Angels Church on Jan. 10. Cookies will be on sale until March 8. New cookies are "Rah Rah Raisin" (oatmeal with raisins and Greek yogurts chunks) and Toffee-tastic (gluten free crispy, buttery cookie with golden toffee bits). For more information: http://goo.gl/Fz5bxG .

~ Assemblymember Chris Holden, who represents Monrovia, today introduced Assembly Bill 148 to offer an alternative solution to school construction funding. He said: "AB 148 will begin discussions about the future of school financing, which may include both bond financing or tax financing, and also streamline the state facilities program, currently a burdensome layer of bureaucracy." Source: Holden press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's AeroVironment May Build Drone in India

Monrovia dronemaker, AeroVironment, could begin building its military drone, Raven, in India. http://goo.gl/fKreQJ

- Brad Haugaard

Three Monrovia High Students Selected as Top CIF Talent

Top CIF football talent includes three Monrovia High students: Octavious Spencer, Tysean Brown, Anthony Marquez. http://goo.gl/mCzd9L

- Brad Haugaard

Giraffe Removed from Monrovia Condos

Giraffe statue in front of the Ivy At Monrovia Condominiums has been removed. Gem City Images has the before/after pictures: http://goo.gl/yXJN8U

- Brad Haugaard

Report Monrovia Potholes Online | Jazz Vespers

~ The December-February issue of Monrovia Today says you can report crimes on the city's website, here ( http://cityofmonrovia.org/police ), however I don't think it has been implemented yet as there is no reporting form there. It is supposed to be like the Covina system, which you can see here: http://goo.gl/mSr97I . However, the Public Works reporting form, to report potholes, burnt out street lights, and so forth, is available here: http://goo.gl/0DLgwJ

~ Theodicy Jazz Collective will present a Jazz Vespers performance on Saturday evening, Jan. 31, at 7 p.m. at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 122 S. California Ave. Admission is free; there will be a freewill offering.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Peeing While Drunk; Not-Exactly Animal Abuse; Get Caught, Yell Rape

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 8-11. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events. 

Animal Problem
January 9 at 3:08 p.m., police received information reporting possible animal cruelty occurring at a residence in the 400 block of Monrovista. An officer responded to the location and found there were seven dogs at the residence. Pasadena Humane Society was contacted and also responded to the location. The dog owner voluntarily released custody of five of the dogs to Pasadena Humane and two remained at the location. The two remaining dogs were unlicensed and the owner was given a time period in which to get the dogs licensed. There was no evidence of physical abuse to the animals; however, there was an element of general neglect, based on the poor condition of the home, where the animals were kept. The Community Policing Office will follow up on this case regarding code enforcement violations. 

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
January 9 at 6:15 p.m., an intoxicated female subject was found at the skate park in the 800 block of East Olive. The subject was arrested and held for sobering. 

Urinating in Public / Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
January 10 at 7:50 p.m., officers observed a male subject urinating against a wall in the 1800 block of South Myrtle. The subject was found to be too intoxicated to care for himself and was arrested. He was held for sobering. 

Disturbance / Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
January 10 at 10:00 p.m., police responded to the theater in the 400 block of South Myrtle regarding a male subject causing a disturbance inside the theatre. Officers determined the subject was intoxicated and could not care for himself. He was arrested and held for sobering. 

Vehicle Burglary
January 11 at 5:03 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 1800 block of South Fifth Avenue. The victim parked and locked the vehicle in its assigned parking space. Unknown suspect(s) smashed one of the vehicle windows and took a Nikon camera that was left inside. The investigation is continuing. 

Petty Theft – Suspects Arrested
January 12 at 4:22 a.m., police received several calls reporting a disturbance at a residence in the 00 block of Hidden Valley. When officers arrived, the victim reported that two females had come onto his property and were stealing yard art, pots and plants from his front yard. The victim heard the suspects and confronted them. When confronted, the females began yelling that they were being raped and residents in the area phoned police to report someone was being raped. The females were able to get into their vehicle and they fled. Officers arrived and locked down the street. They located the suspects still nearby on Hidden Valley. The stolen property was recovered. The victim positively identified the suspects and made a citizen's arrest. The suspects were arrested and their vehicle was stored. 

Cherry on Top Gone; Flamzz Being Remodeled


Cherry on Top, the yogurt place in the Pavilions shopping center, has a notice on the door saying it has been evicted. Too bad, I liked that place. Also, Flamzz Pizza, at the corner of Colorado and Ivy, is closed for remodeling. Thanks to Doran for the tip.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Robotics Team: Second in Qualifying Tournament


Monrovia High's robotics team, The Kings and Queens, won second place, the Inspire Award, at the LA Region Qualifying Tournament this weekend in Perris, California.

- Brad Haugaard

Chance of Rain in Monrovia Now Higher

Up to 40% chance of rain today and 90% tomorrow. Soup weather. http://goo.gl/mfKHJ2

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Schools: New Fencing; Honorees; District Audit; Space for Work Swap

At its Jan. 24 meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/WcfJSu ), the Monrovia School Board will ...

- Hear a report on what it will cost to install new fencing at Mayflower Elementary School and Santa Fe Middle School. http://goo.gl/YE03sb

- Congratulate Margaret "Jeanie" Antillon as 1st Place Winner for her essay, "Fighting For My Life," in a national essay contest.

- Honor (along with the Monrovia Chamber of Commerce) these district employees: Mary Peterson, Monroe School office manager; Juana Kramer, Monroe School teacher; Karen Meza Plymouth School playground aide; Jeffrey Crowell, Plymouth School teacher.

- Hear a report on the audit of the school district finances. http://goo.gl/zkJyN8

- Consider working a deal with Community Media of the Foothills to broadcast the Board of Education's meetings on KGEM in return for office space. http://goo.gl/04WTda

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Rubio's Fresh Mexican Grill


Lunch at Rubio's Fresh Mexican Grill, in the Huntington Oaks shopping center next to Toys R Us. It specializes in fish, so I got the Signature Beer-Battered Fish Burrito for $6.29 and a drink for $1.89. Tasty. I could use another. 

- Brad Haugaard

More Rain? | Monrovia Running Back to Cathedral | Library Book Sale

~ Sixty percent chance of more rain this Sunday: http://goo.gl/dPNZ7C

~ Monrovia High loses running back Kameron Johnson to Cathedral High. http://goo.gl/99kcfs

~ Friends of the Monrovia Public Library is planning its annual Spring Sale May 15-16. Shoppers can select from several thousand books in excellent condition at low prices. No time or place details yet, except it is usually held at the Library. http://goo.gl/pneqgq

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Trash News: Rates Rising; Curbside Electronic Waste Pick-Up; New Tiny Trash Barrel

~ Expect a bump in your trash bill starting this month (90-gallon barrel from $21.65 to $22.76; 60-gallon from $17.96 to $18.80; the new 30-gallon for $15.99), plus a one-time bump this month because the city agreed to a raise for Athens retroactive to July 1, 2014, and that back pay will will be on the January bill.

~ You can get Athens to pick up electronic waste, old DVD players, phones, TVs, etc. You can put up to ten items at a time on the curb, but you need to call Athens to schedule pick-up: (888) 336-6100.

~ Athens is now offering a 30-gallon trash barrel (along with its 60 and 90-gallon barrel) if you just generate an itty-bitty amount of trash.

Source: City of Monrovia newsletter, "Recycle News"

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Ex-Boyfriend Problems; Injury Accident on Foothill; Flat-Tire Bike Stolen; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 5-7. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 390 service events, resulting in 80 investigations.

Commercial Burglary
January 5 at 7:00 a.m., a commercial burglary was reported at a business in the 100 block of West Chestnut. Unknown suspect(s) gained entry by smashing a front window. A 42 inch television was the only item taken. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
January 5 at 12:35 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the area of Magnolia and Colorado. The vehicle is a Blue, 2006 Toyota Matrix. The vehicle was locked and was taken sometime between 6:00 p.m. on January 4 and 12:35 p.m. on January 5. The investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
January 5 at 12:23 a.m., an officer responded to a residence in the 200 block of South Madison regarding a domestic violence incident. The suspect is the ex-boyfriend of the victim. They had recently broken up. The victim was at a friend’s home on Madison when the suspect approached them and started a fight with the victim’s male friend. He then turned his aggression toward the victim. The victim sustained injuries, but was able to get away from the suspect and drove home to Covina. The suspect left the location. Officers were able to track down the suspect and he was arrested for domestic violence.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 6 at 4:41 p.m., police received a report of a traffic collision in the 100 block of West Foothill. A car was entering onto Foothill Boulevard from a parking lot and was struck by a vehicle traveling east in the number one lane of Foothill. Both vehicles were occupied by solo male drivers and both vehicles sustained heavy damage, with airbags deployed. Both drivers were taken to a hospital for treatment. There was no indication of driving under the influence. The accident occurred during heavy traffic on Foothill.

Robbery
January 6 at 11:51 p.m., a male subject came into the police lobby to report he was the victim of a robbery. The victim was walking south on Monterey and was pushing his bicycle, which had a flat tire. He was attacked by two male suspects that were standing in the area of Monterey and Walnut. One of the suspects had a small, light-colored dog on a leash. The suspect dropped the leash and began punching the victim and trying to go through his pockets to take his belongings. The victim dropped his bicycle to defend himself, and the second suspect picked up the bicycle and rode away, despite the flat tire. The first suspect then fled the area. The bicycle was the only item taken. The investigation is continuing.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered
January 8 at 1:09 a.m., officers on patrol in the 400 block of West Huntington noticed a vehicle that looked out of place. They ran the license plate and it returned as a stolen vehicle. The car was recovered, printed and the registered owner was notified.

Evensong

St. Luke's Episcopal Church will hold an Evensong choral service on Sunday, Jan. 18, at 4 p.m. 122 S. California Ave. Choir and guest singers performing selections for Epiphany, including: the Alan Knight Preces and Responses, the John Ireland Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis. The anthem will be the Epiphany suite from Christus by Felix Mendelssohn; Dermot Kiernan, Victor Mazzone, and Jim Campbell will sing the roles of the three kings. Rev. Neil Tadken will be officiant and cantor. A freewill offering will be taken and a wine and cheese reception will follow.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Grocery Bag Ban in Effect; Get free Reusable Bag | Care Cafe for Elderly

~ The plastic grocery bag ban is now in effect for Monrovia. If you need a reusable grocery bag you can get one at City Hall or the Public Works office while supplies last. Details: http://goo.gl/AHJXIT

~ Care Cafe, a morning of relaxation for the elderly (60 ) and their caregivers, February 19, at the Monrovia Community Center, 119 West Palm Ave., from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sponsored by Monrovia Providers Group. Program includes manicures by Citrus College Cosmetology, lunch by Market Grill, dessert from Rivanis Baking Company, and mini-massages. Reservations required. Call Rebecca at 256-8232 to reserve a spot.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Car Fix Scam; Indecent Exposure; Car Stripped; Robbery Suspect Arrested; Cigarette Heist

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 29 – January 4, 2015. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Vehicle Repair Scams
December 29 at 1:13 p.m., an elderly male subject came to the police station to report being the victim of a scam. The victim parked in a handicap stall at a business in the 600 block of West Huntington. He was approached by a male white subject who claimed the victim hit something with his vehicle. The suspect said he could fix the problem. He reached under the dash and said a computer part was burned out. He convinced the victim to withdraw $400 from the bank kiosk in the parking lot. Once the victim handed the suspect the cash, the suspect fled.

This is the third incident that has been investigated with a similar suspect description and involving elderly victims and car repair scams. The two additional cases occurred in Arcadia. The suspect approached elderly females in parking lots and told them they had a wobbly front tire. The suspect attempted to dupe the victims into handing over large sums of money for the vehicle repairs. The two victims refused and reported the incidents to a local repair shop that, in turn, reported the incidents to police. The investigations are continuing.

Indecent Exposure
December 29 at 2:50 p.m., a female subject was at the library in the 300 block of South Myrtle Avenue. She was seated at a desk in a rear corner cubicle. A male subject walked up to the cubicle and mumbled something toward her. She did not understand what he was saying and continued to study. A few minutes passed and she looked up again. She now saw the male subject standing in the book aisle between the book cases, and he was masturbating. After seeing the suspect, she stood up and walked to the front counter and called the police. Officers arrived and searched the area for the suspect, but he was not located. The suspect is described as a male white, early to mid 30s, approximately 6'1" to 6'2" tall, thin build, clean cut, bleached blond buzz haircut, with a small earring stud in his left ear. He was wearing a light gray sweater and possibly carrying a backpack. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
December 30 at 5:23 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 200 block of West Walnut. The victim parked and locked her car in her assigned parking space at about 6:00 p.m. She returned to her vehicle early the next morning and noticed a window had been smashed. A carry-on bag was stolen from the front seat, which contained $30.00 in rolled coins in plastic wrappers. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
December 30 at 9:41 a.m., officers responded to the report of a vehicle burglary in the 300 block of South Primrose. They arrived and found the driver side door of the vehicle unlocked and no sign of forced entry. Several items were missing from the vehicle. The surrounding area was searched and some of the stolen items were located inside a dumpster. They were returned to the victim. The investigation is continuing.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered
December 30 at 12:52 p.m., an officer on patrol noticed a vehicle that was parked irregularly in the 800 block of South Primrose. He ran a computer check on the license plate and discovered it was stolen out of Pasadena. The vehicle had been stripped. A rubber glove was found inside the vehicle. The owner said it was not in the vehicle when it was stolen on December 29. The vehicle had been left unlocked with the keys in the ignition when it was stolen.

Grand Theft Auto
December 30 at 11:33 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from a residence in the 1100 block of Starlit Lane. The resident had a party where alcohol was served. All guests that drove to the party were required to put their car keys in a basket, but the basket was not secured. After the party, the owner of one of the vehicles noticed her car was gone and reported her car stolen to police. The next morning, the Los Angeles Police Department located the car and it had been crashed. The investigation is continuing.

Strong-arm Robbery – Suspect Arrested
December 31 at 6:00 p.m., police responded to the report of a strong-arm robbery that occurred in the area of Fifth Avenue and Duarte Road. The victim was riding his skateboard on the sidewalk and listening to his headphones. He heard something behind him and stopped and took off his headphones. A male subject who claimed to be in a gang told him he wanted his wallet and valuables. The victim stumbled back off his skateboard and the suspect grabbed his headphones. The victim’s wallet fell out of his pocket as he fell and the suspect grabbed it, too, and ran. An officer arrived and located the suspect in the area. The victim was able to identify the suspect and he was arrested and taken into custody.

Residential Burglary
January 1 at 6:52 a.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 100 block of North May. Sometime between 6:00 p.m. on December 31 and 5:00 a.m. on January 1, unknown suspect(s) entered the victim's unlocked, detached garage. The suspect(s) took ten $2.00 bills and left undetected. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
January 1 at 10:58 a.m., the victim of a residential burglary reported that sometime overnight unknown suspect(s) entered her home in the 100 block of North Canyon through a bedroom window. The suspect(s) took the victim's purse from a room and left undetected through the front door. The victim believes she was at home sleeping during the burglary. She found the latch broken on the bedroom window and the front door left unlocked. The investigation is continuing.

Manufacturing Synthetic Marijuana
January 1 at 8:10 p.m., officers responded to assist the Monrovia Fire Department on a residential structure fire in the 100 block of Fig. Evidence at the scene led the fire fighters to believe the location was being used to manufacture some form of drug. The initial indication is that the suspect was attempting to manufacture a synthetic form of marijuana. A lit cigarette caused the solution to ignite, burning the suspect's face and hands. The suspect was treated at a hospital for the burns. The investigation was turned over to the Los Angeles Interagency Metropolitan Police Apprehension Crime Task Force (LA IMPACT) for location cleanup and possible prosecution.

Residential Burglary
January 2 at 1:21 p.m., a family returned to their house in the 100 block of North May Avenue after a three day holiday vacation and discovered their house had been burglarized. A men's bicycle and an Xbox video game console was taken. It is unknown how the suspects entered the home, as there were no signs of forced entry. It is possible the victims may have left a rear door unlocked. The investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
January 3 at 6:07 p.m., police responded to the area of Duarte and Encino regarding a female driver observed striking several parked cars with her vehicle. She was located at Encino and third in Arcadia. The driver was positively identified by witnesses. She was determined to be driving under the influence and was arrested.

Grand Theft Auto
January 4 at 1:06 p.m., a female victim called police to report her vehicle had been stolen. The vehicle was taken from a hotel parking lot in the 700 block of West Huntington Drive. The vehicle is a 1998 Honda Civic and was taken sometime overnight. The investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary
January 4 at 11:45 p.m., police received an alarm activation at a business in the 300 block of West Huntington Drive. Officers arrived and found the back door of the business open. Additional resources were requested to help search the location for suspects. Arcadia Police Department officers, the Glendora Police Department canine officer and the Foothill Air Support helicopter responded to assist. The location was searched, but no suspects were located. A large quantity of cigarette cartons was stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Pirate Joe's Imitates Monrovia-Based Trader Joe's

Video interview of the owner of Pirate Joe's, a Vancouver knock-off of Monrovia-based Trader Joe's. He buys from Trader Joe's stores in the US, then resells in his store in Canada. http://goo.gl/c3LfqK

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovian Burned Alegedly Making Synthetic Marijuana

Monrovian burned while alegedly making synthetic marijuana. http://goo.gl/TwMtBP

- Brad Haugaard

City Plans Improvements to Entrance Trail for Monrovia Canyon Park

Monrovia is planning $149,904 of improvements to the trail alongside the entrance road to Monrovia Canyon Park - four concrete aprons and 1,930 linear feet of concrete curb to divert rain water into the Sawpit Debris Basin to help eliminate trail erosion.

However, the property belongs to the Los Angeles County Flood Control District and, oops, turns out there is no formal agreement between the district and the city for a trail. So this measure, if the council approves it at its Jan. 6 meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/FFK6nj ), would essentially formalize the current arrangement between the city and the flood control district.

Source: http://goo.gl/8JPi7M

- Brad Haugaard

People Thinking of Running for Monrovia Council

A number of people have "pulled" (taken out) papers they need to fill out to run for mayor or city council. Here is the status of people who are interested in running, from City Clerk Alice Atkins:

For Mayor:
- Leonard Holen (pulled 12/29/2014)
- Tom Adams (pulled 12/30/2014)
- Chris Ziegler – appointment for orientation 12/29/2014 but postponed pulling papers, indications are he may run for City Council instead
- Mary Ann Lutz (appointment to pull on 1/6/2014)
 
For City Council:
- Becky Shevlin (pulled 12/22/2014)
- Tom Adams (pulled 12/22/2014 – forfeited 12/30/2014)
- Robert Parry (pulled 12/22/2014)
- Victor Castellano (pulled 12/22/2014, Filed and Qualified 12/26/2014)
- Clifford DeCosta (pulled 12/22/2014)
- Gloria Crudgington (pulled 12/26/2014)
- Tom Gulley (pulled 12/26/2014)
- Scott Austin (pulled 12/30/2014)
 
- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at La Adelita


Lunch at La Adelita. Mexican food. Half block east of Myrtle on the south side of Colorado. Got the Two Items Quick Combo with a shredded beef taco and chili relleno for $5.99, plus an iced tea. Good food. Attentive service.
- Brad Haugaard 

Adams to Run Against Lutz as Monrovia Mayor

Monrovia Councilman Tom Adams will challenge incumbent Mayor Mary Ann Lutz in the upcoming election. He says the city is slipping backwards, with unstable management and infrastructure in poor repair: http://goo.gl/IzwC1r

- Brad Haugaard

Stealth Bomber Over Monrovia


After flying over the Rose Parade, the Stealth bomber banks right over Monrovia. If you see it on TV then run outside you can almost always catch it. [Corrected. Bomber not fighter.]

- Brad Haugaard