New Year's Eve Celebration on Myrtle

Live music on Myrtle as part of the New Year's Eve party. 

- Brad Haugaard

New Year's Eve Party Tonight In Old Town Monrovia!

New Year's Eve party tonight on Myrtle Avenue, 7 to midnight! Beer, wine, snacks, music, restaurants open. http://goo.gl/NJ2arI

- Brad Haugaard

Nominate Someone as Monrovia Neighbor of the Year

Monrovia Area Partnership is looking for a Monrovian whose volunteer efforts combat crime and blight while encouraging participation in the community. The award honors a person who makes everyone feel welcome, goes above and beyond to help make the neighborhood better. Nomination form here: http://goo.gl/OGqFET

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia State Senator Reports on Her Bills That Have Become Law

State Senator Carol Liu, who represents Monrovia, reports that nine of her bills were signed into law by Governor Jerry Brown this year. Here are six she highlights:

  • SB 64 requires the California Transportation Commission to provide specific recommendations to the Legislature and Governor for improving the California Transportation Plan. The Plan is updated every five years to improve the state’s highway, passenger rail and public transit systems and integrate transportation planning with greenhouse gas reduction and sustainability planning. Comment: It's kind of a sorry situation when you have to require a state agency to do something that should be one of its basic functions.
  • SB 68 expands the time that juvenile courts can provide to reunify teen-age parents with their children who have been placed temporarily in the Foster Care system.
  • SB 172 suspends the outdated California High School Exit Exam and directs the State Superintendent of Public Instruction to convene a task force to recommend an updated exam linked to current Common Core public education standards.
  • SB 219 streamlines a California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation program that helps nonviolent, low-risk offenders complete their sentences and re-enter society as productive citizens.
  • SB 445 will let homeless youth stay in the school where they are currently enrolled if they find housing in another area. This is the same enrollment security that Foster Care Children receive when they change places of residence.
  • SB 675 will make sure hospitals identify a caregiver and engage that person in discharge planning to assure patients receive proper care when they return to their home.

Source: Liu press release - http://goo.gl/Mslv4G

- Brad Haugaard

Frost Advisory Again

Another frost advisory for tonight. Bring pets and sensitive plants inside. http://goo.gl/7PWod2

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Terrorism Prep | Water Main | El Nino Prep

In his weekly report ( http://goo.gl/9PM1Tj ), City Manager Oliver Chi ...

- Described city preparations in light of the terrorist attack in San Bernardino:

* Monrovia is part of a regional tactical response team called FSET, kinda like a SWAT team.

* Police participate in annual tactical training.

* The Community Policing bureau is "a resource of intelligence information from our citizens who may see suspicious activity."

* Police "provide extra patrol to both of the [Monrovia] mosques to try to deter any criminal hate crimes at those locations."

- The water main that broke on Ridgeside Drive near Canyon Boulevard on Christmas Day was a nearly 70-year-old 8-inch main. "It was important that we had to get the pipe repaired as soon as possible, because without that pipe functioning, the Emerson Reservoir would have run out of water within a day. And if the Emerson Reservoir ran out of water, a large segment of the community would be left without water service." Comment: Thanks indeed to the city crew that fixed it.

- Sandbag Saturday, from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Jan. 9 at Recreation Park, "will assist residents with filling sandbags, provide demonstrations on how to properly build sandbag debris walls, and educate on additional ways to best to prepare for the El Nino storms." Also, the city has scheduled two El Nino prep classes at 6 p.m. in the Library Community Room: Tuesday, Jan. 5, and Thursday, Jan. 21.

- Brad Haugaard

Walking Tour of Downtown Monrovia

Walking tour of downtown Monrovia on Saturday, Jan. 9, at 10 a.m. by Monrovia Historic Preservation Group. The tour lasts about two hours, and is 8 city blocks long. $5 per person, reservations not necessary. Meet at the SE corner of Palm and Myrtle Avenues.

C-c-c-cold Tonight in Monrovia

The National Weather Service has a frost advisory in effect from midnight tonight to 9 a.m. Tuesday. Bring sensitive plants, and of course your pets, inside for the night. The report says: "There will likely be at least 2 hours of temperatures at or just slightly above freezing." But Monrovia will miss out on the worst of it... "The coldest area will be in the extreme western San Fernando valley where temperatures could briefly fall into the upper 20s." http://goo.gl/yI30EX

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Driving Drunk With Cell Phone; 12-Year-Old Runs Into Street, Hit; Girlfriend Arrested for Domestic Violence; Cop Firefigher

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

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Vehicle Burglary
December 21 at 4:10 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 200 block of Poinsettia Avenue. The lock securing the doors on the bed of a utility truck were cut and miscellaneous power and cordless tools were taken. The investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication/Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 21 at 6:36 p.m., officers were dispatched to the rear of a business location in the 200 block of West Foothill regarding an ongoing problem of homeless persons sleeping on the property. A subject was located sleeping on the property. He was heavily intoxicated and unable to care for himself. A computer check revealed the subject also had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. He was arrested, held for a sobering period, and later released with a citation to appear in court.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
December 21 at 8:49 p.m., officers responded to a residence in the 300 block of East Olive regarding a family disturbance between a husband and wife. The husband was intoxicated, but agreed to sleep in his vehicle for the night. As the officers were about to leave, the husband became uncooperative. Due to his high level of intoxication, he was arrested for being drunk in public. He was held for a sobering period and later released on a citation to appear in court.

Vehicle Burglary
December 22 at 7:52 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 1300 block of South Alta Vista. The victim parked his vehicle in the carport of his secured apartment complex the night before. When he returned to his vehicle in the morning, he found the passenger window broken and his stereo missing. The investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
December 22 at 6:30 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 1100 block of East Lemon regarding a traffic collision. The driver was traveling east on Lemon and reached for her cell phone, causing her to veer to the right and hit a parked vehicle. The driver was determined to be driving under the influence of alcohol. She was arrested and her vehicle was impounded. She was held for a sobering period and later released with a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Driving Under the Influence Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
December 22 at 10:30 p.m., officers were sent to the area of Foothill and Norumbega regarding a traffic collision. The driver was traveling south on Norumbega and failed to stop at the posted stop sign at Foothill. His vehicle traveled across all four lanes of traffic and collided into a parked vehicle. The driver demonstrated symptoms of being intoxicated and was determined to be driving under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested and his vehicle was impounded. The suspect was held for a sobering period and later released with a citation to appear in court.

Vehicle Burglary
December 23 at 7:52 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 1300 block of South Alta Vista. The victim left his vehicle parked in the carport of his secured apartment complex in the evening. When he returned to his vehicle the next morning, he found the passenger window shattered and his stereo had been taken. The investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence
December 23 at 11:40 p.m., officers responded to the 300 block of West Huntington on the report of an assault in progress. The subjects reportedly left the area on foot and headed south on Magnolia. Officers located the subjects in the 1400 block of South Magnolia. The subjects are boyfriend and girlfriend, and they were involved in a verbal argument that escalated into a physical altercation. The female subject was arrested for domestic violence.

Weapon Offenses / Possession of Methamphetamine / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
December 25 at 4:34 a.m., officers on patrol initiated a traffic stop in the 200 block of East Colorado for a traffic violation. As a result of the stop, the driver of the vehicle was arrested for having a loaded pistol and narcotics in the vehicle.

Structure Fire/Arson
December 26 at 2:40 a.m., police and fire personnel responded to a structure fire at a private warehouse in the 300 block of West Chestnut used to store classic vehicles. Further investigation led officers to believe the fire began due to arson. One male adult family member was named as the suspect. The suspect committed suicide at his home in Glendale. The investigation is continuing.

Traffic Collision/Vehicle vs. Pedestrian
December 26 at 1:52 p.m., police responded to a traffic collision at Los Angeles & Ivy. A 12-year-old girl ran into the street and was struck by a vehicle. She sustained minor injuries, but complained of pain to her neck and back. She was taken to a hospital by ambulance.

Vandalism
December 26 at 10:07 p.m., a vandalism incident was reported in the 500 block of Diamond. A resident in the area reported graffiti spray painted on the side of his house. The investigation is continuing.

Vandalism
December 26 at 10:34 p.m., officers located graffiti in the 1800 block of South Myrtle. The officers noticed fresh graffiti all throughout the parking lot, windows and walls of buildings. The investigation is continuing.

Fire Assist
December 26 at 11:38 p.m., officers responded to the report of a fire next to a residence in the 500 block of Normubega. An officer arrived and located a tree and a trashcan that were on fire. The officer put out the fire with the fire extinguisher from his police unit.

'Person of Interest' in Monrovia Warehouse Fire Apparently Kills Himself

25-year-old Glendale man apparently kills himself. He was a "person of interest" in a fire at a Monrovia warehouse that apparently contained valuable cars. (I believe this is the fire on Chestnut just west of Magnolia). http://goo.gl/wntcHx

- Brad Haugaard

Woman of Year Nominations Open

Assemblymember Chris Holden is seeking nominations for the 41st Assembly District's "Woman of Distinction." Nominations, due by Jan. 15, are open to all women who live or work in Monrovia or the rest of the district. No self-nominations. For more information, contact Alex Zucco at Alex.Zucco@asm.ca.gov or 626-351-1917. Source: press release

- Brad Haugaard

Fire Damages Building on Chestnut


Fire damaged a light industrial building on Chestnut, just west of the VFW on the corner of Magnolia. Apparently last night.

- Brad Haugaard

Power Outage Last Night

Power outage 3:45 this morning in neighborhood of Colorado & Magnolia. Lasted abt 15 minutes. Heard siren, but no details. Thanks for the tip, Doran.

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at WaBa Grill

Dinner recently at WaBa Grill, in the Pavilions shopping center at Myrtle and Foothill, where the old Subway used to be. This is rice bowl kind of place, very much like Flame Broiler. I got a chicken and veggie bowl ($6.75) and a drink ($1.80). It was good. And Merry Christmas, by the way!

- Brad Haugaard

Water Cascade in North Monrovia

Hundreds if not thousands of gallons of water are cascading down Ridgeside and along Canyon. Police and Fire have the road blocked off. 

UPDATE: Water has slowed to a trickle. Apparently it was a water main that broke. I suspect some folks up there will be without water for a bit.

- Brad Haugaard

Merry Christmas, Monrovia!

Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and you shall call him his name Immanuel. - Isaiah 7:14

Happy Holy Day!

- Brad Haugaard

Rain and Gusty Winds Possible

National Weather Service reports: "A cold Pacific disturbance is expected to bring rain and low elevation snow and gusty northerly winds to southwestern California Thursday into Friday. Moderate to strong Santa Ana winds are possible Friday night and Saturday as high pressure builds into the Great Basin." http://goo.gl/9XMV6l

- Brad Haugaard

More Citrus College Students Transfer to Four-Year State Schools

The number of Citrus College students transferring into University of California schools has increased by more than 30 percent from the 2013-2014 academic year. 131 students during the 2014-2015 academic year. Also, 693 students transferred to the California State University system, an increase of nearly 20 percent from the previous year. Citrus College serves the Monrovia area. Source: Press release

- Brad Haugaard

4th Dimension; City Hall Landscaping; New Year's Eve; Honor a Vet; Etc.

In his weekly report, City Manager Oliver Chi wrote that ...

- There will be a study session about the proposed 4th Dimension/Community Center project on Jan. 7 at 7 p.m., at the Library Community Room. (The City Council Chambers will be under renovation then.)

- Orchard Supply Hardware (OSH), "is moving full speed ahead to open their new store soon." It'll be at 725 W. Huntington (next to PetsMart).

- The city has finished installing drought-tolerant landscaping at City Hall. 20 drought-tolerant plant species on display. Next it will install a work of "kinetic art." I think that means it moves.

- State of the City speach is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 8 at the Krikorian Premiere Theater.
 
- New Year's Eve party on Myrtle in Old Town on Dec. 31, starting at 7 p.m. A live band, Night Owl, plus beer and wine garden. Merchants and restaurants will be open.

- For November, Monrovia's water consumption was down 22% compared to November 2013. Not quite the target of 28%, but Chi said "conservation is much more difficult during the winter months," so the city is still "excited that the trend of saving water in Monrovia has continued."

- Assembly Member Chris Holden wants nominations for the 41st Assembly District's 2016 Veteran of the Year. Vet must reside or perform community service within the 41st Assembly District (That includes Monrovia). For more information, contact Matthew Lyons at Matthew.Lyons@asm.ca.gov or (909) 624-7876.

- A team of Monrovia Area Partnership volunteers provided drought-tolerant landscaping at the homes of two senior citizens during a work party on Dec. 12.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Christmas Decoration Winners



  • Best Still Display – 309 North Madison Avenue
  • Best Outdoor Display – 541 Valmont Drive
  • Best Window Display – 208 South Mayflower Avenue
  • Most Effective Use Of Lighting – 380 Norumbega Drive
  • Best Decorated Outdoor Tree – 308 West Lemon Avenue
  • Best Neighborhood Effort – Valmont Drive & Place
  • Snowman Award – 632 Terrado Drive
  • Children’s Choice Award – 333 Norumbega Drive
  • Santa’s Workshop Award – 639 Parker Avenue
  • Holiday Spirit Award – 550 South Park Rose Avenue
  • Judges Award – 2500 Block of Rochelle Avenue



- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Rotary Provides Shopping Spree For Local Children

For the fourth consecutive year the Monrovia Rotary Club has provided clothing and a toy to children referred by a local service provider. Dr. Sylvia Domotor, founder and chairperson of the event, said 65 children, many victims of or witnesses to domestic violence or drug abuse, were the beneficiaries of a department store shopping spree, likely providing them with the only gifts they will receive this Christmas. Each was chaperoned through Kohl's by one of 47 student volunteers from the Interact and Renaissance clubs at Monrovia High and by students from Kaizen martial arts. The event was paid for by year-long donations from members of the Monrovia Rotary Club. The sales at Kohl's generated a substantial gift card bonus which will be donated to Monrovia Public Schools.

Monrovia Rotary Club welcomes visitors and seeks service-minded individuals to join its membership. The club meets Tuesdays at noon at the Monrovian Restaurant on Myrtle Avenue. More information and a link to RSVP for a meeting at www.monroviarotaryclub.com

Source: press release

- Brad Haugaard

Early Morning Power Outage in Monrovia

A little blackout hit Monrovia about 5:40 this morning. Power at the Pavilions center was out, but came back on within a few minutes (I watched). Southern California Edison says it is analyzing the problem and should have it fixed by 3 p.m. but looks like everything is working now. https://goo.gl/o4X32G

- Brad Haugaard

Rain Tonight, Tomorrow | Bicycle Plan for Monrovia

~ 80% chance of rain tonight, 70% tomorrow. http://goo.gl/VnR5SB

~ Here is a survey about bicycle conditions in Monrovia for riders and non-riders to help the city complete its bicycle master plan. Here

- Brad Haugaard

Nominees Wanted For Small Business Of The Year

Assemblymember Chris Holden wants nominations for the 41st Assembly District "2016 Small Business of the Year." A business may be nominated by any business owner or resident and/or municipal and chamber of commerce staff within the 41st Assembly District (NO self-nominations). For more information, contact Matthew Lyons at Matthew.Lyons@asm.ca.gov or 909-624-7876.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: 16 Victims of BB Gun Window Breaker; Checking Out Mailboxes; Vehicle Theft; Burglaries

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 17-20. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Vehicle Burglary
On December 17 at 9:51 a.m., an officer responded to a business in the 900 block of West Huntington reporting a vehicle burglary. The victim parked his vehicle in the parking lot last night and returned this morning to find the rear passenger window smashed. The suspects did not take anything from the vehicle. The vehicle was parked outside of the hotel. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
On December 17 at 11:51 a.m., an officer responded to the 700 block of South Magnolia regarding a residential burglary. The victim left his residence unsecured at 11:15 a.m. and returned home at noon. When the victim entered his residence, he observed his computer was missing. When he looked into his room, he saw his bedroom window was pushed open and his jewelry was missing. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
On December 17 at 6:49 p.m., a resident called to report his vehicle was stolen from the 200 block of West Cherry. The victim parked his vehicle in from of his residence at 9:15 a.m. He returned to his vehicle at 6:35 p.m. and discovered it missing. The vehicle is described as a silver, Toyota, Rav. The investigation is continuing.

Vandalism – Suspects Arrested
On December 19 at 10:45 a.m., officers responded to several calls over the past couple of days of unknown suspect(s) using a BB-gun to shoot out vehicle’s windows in the cities of Monrovia & Arcadia. Monrovia Police Department has identified at least 16 confirmed victims. During one of the incidents in Arcadia, a witness wrote down the suspect vehicle license plate and was reported to the Arcadia Police Department. The registered owner of the suspect vehicle is a Monrovia resident. Officers from Monrovia and Arcadia Police Department went to the registered owners address in an attempt to identify the vandalism suspect(s). A subsequent investigation resulted in the arrest of two juvenile suspects. After the booking process, the two juveniles were released to their parents on citations. The parents were very cooperative during the investigation and assisted Monrovia Police Department in recovering the BB-gun used during the vandalisms. One additional suspect was identified. He is an adult and charges will be submitted to the District Attorney for review. The investigation is continuing.

Forgery / Mail Tampering / Warrant – Suspects Arrested
On December 19 at 11:10 a.m., dispatch received a telephone call regarding a male and female suspect walking south in the 1600 block of California, while looking through mailboxes. An officer responded to the location and detained both suspects. A computer check revealed one of the suspects had an outstanding warrant and was placed under arrest. A subsequent investigation revealed the suspects to be in possession of stolen mail, including a stolen check, which they intended to fraudulently cash. Both suspects were arrested and transported to the Monrovia Jail for booking.

Christmas Light Street in Monrovia

The folks on Valmont Drive have done it again. It's like driving through a tunnel of lights. Well worth the drive. Go north on Norumbega and keep an eye out to your left. You should see the street. 

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's Clifton School Wins Up To $100,000 | High Chance of Rain

~ Monrovia School Board member Alex Zucco reports that Clifton Middle School has been named one of five winners of the "Fab School Labs" contest, which means it will receive a grant of up to $100,000 to create a dream laboratory.

~ 80% chance of rain today. Hmm. Doesn't look like it at the moment. http://goo.gl/VnR5SB

- Brad Haugaard

Citrus College Gets Clean Audit Report

Citrus College, which serves Monrovia, reported that it has once again received an unmodified ("clean") audit opinion by independent auditors indicating that the institution's financial data is fairly stated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Source: press release

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Jimmy John's


Had dinner last night at the new Jimmy John's sandwich shop in the Huntington Oaks Shopping Center, on Huntington Drive. Got the Hunters Club (roast beef and provolone) sandwich for $7.99, and an ice tea for a $1.89. A good sandwich and polite and prompt service.

- Brad Haugaard

Trains To Begin Running Day and Night on Gold Line

Foothill Gold Line reports that starting this weekend, Dec. 19-20, Metro will start running trains day and night between the Sierra Madre Villa and APU/Citrus College stations. Metro has been running trains in the late afternoon/evening hours since September. This is still for testing - no passenger service yet.

- Brad Haugaard

New Micro-Brewer Coming to Monrovia

Monrovia's Community Development Department reports that a new micro-brewer, REV Winery/REV Brewing Co. plans to open a manufacturing facility and tasting at Hamby Park. Where? Well, Hamby Park is roughly the area from the freeway south about five or six blocks along Myrtle, Peck and California. http://goo.gl/0Hl0KT

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Running Car Stolen; Thief With a Key; Stolen Ping Pong Paddle; Neighbor Saw, Didn't Report; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 14-16. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 378 service events, resulting in 70 investigations.

Grand Theft Auto
December 14 at 7:17 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 800 block of West Walnut. The victim started the vehicle and left it running and unattended for a few minutes. When he came back to the vehicle, it was gone. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
December 15 at 6:38 a.m., an officer responded to the report of a vehicle burglary in the 1300 block of South Alta Vista. An unknown suspect entered the secured apartment complex and went to the carport area. The suspect shattered a window to gain entry to the vehicle, but nothing was taken. The investigation is continuing.

Theft of Mail
December 15 at 12:41 p.m., an incident of mail theft was reported in the 1200 block of South Alta Vista. The suspect is seen on video approaching mailboxes. He is seen removing an object from his pocket, possibly a key, and opening multiple mailboxes. The suspect then removes mail from the boxes and sets it on the ground. He then picks up the large pile of mail and leaves the location. The investigation is continuing.

Traffic Stop/Warrants – Suspects Arrested
December 15 at 9:58 p.m., officers were on patrol in the 800 block of West Colorado and noticed a vehicle traveling towards them without lights during the evening hours. The officers made a traffic stop and contacted two subjects in the vehicle. A computer check revealed both subjects had outstanding warrants for their arrest. The subjects were arrested and held pending their court appearances.

Found Property
December 16 at 1:37 a.m., while on routine patrol in the 200 block of West Colorado, an officer noticed a subject crossing the street near Colorado and Magnolia. Due to the time and cold weather, it seemed suspicious for someone to be out walking. The officer circled the block and found a subject exiting the alley of the 300 block of West Colorado. The officer recognized the subject from previous contacts. Once the subject was released, the officer drove down the alley and located a suitcase containing over 50 vintage TV and radio electrical tubes and a competitive ping pong paddle. No victims were located and the investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
December 16 at 7:12 a.m. a vehicle burglary was reported in the 1800 block of South Peck Road. The victim parked his vehicle overnight in his assigned parking space in his complex carport. When the victim returned to his vehicle, he found the shell of his truck had been pried open and his tools were missing. Security video showed two suspects enter the parking area in a Chrysler minivan. The suspects got out and one appeared to be talking on the phone, while the other suspect pried open the shell of the truck. Both suspects then took tools out of the truck bed, put them into the van and drove away. The investigation is continuing.

Mental Evaluation
December 16 at 2:15 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 100 block of West Duarte Road to check the welfare of a subject. The subject was involved in a vandalism earlier in the day. He called a friend and told the friend he wanted to hang himself because he knew he was going to go to jail for the vandalism. When the officers contacted the subject, he had a knife and a rope and told officers he wanted to hang himself. As the officers approached, the suspect tried to run. An officer attempted to stop him and they fell against a wall. The suspect hit his face on the wall and the officer sustained a contusion on his left forearm and strained his neck. The suspect broke away from the officers and, again, attempted to get away, but the officers subdued the subject and he was taken into custody without further incident. The suspect was taken to a hospital and held for mental evaluation.

Petty Theft
December 16 at 8:40 p.m., a petty theft was reported in the 800 block of Oceanview Avenue. Two UPS packages were stolen off the porch of a residence. A neighbor saw the theft, but failed to report it to the police. The suspect is described as a male, wearing a grey hoodie over his head. The suspect vehicle is an early 2000, white Ford F250, possibly a diesel, with large tires and tinted windows. The investigation is continuing.

Felony Vandalisms
December 16 at 8:41, a vandalism was reported in the 300 block of North Encinitas Avenue. The window on the victim’s vehicle had been shattered by an unknown object. As officers investigated the area, they located several other vehicles that had been vandalized and police received additional calls reporting vehicle vandalisms that sustained identical damage, possibly caused by a BB gun. The Investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
December 16 at 9:57 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a business parking lot in the 800 block of West Huntington. The victim parked and locked her vehicle in the parking lot and went into a restaurant for dinner. When she returned to her vehicle, she found the rear window shattered and a wrapped Christmas gift was stolen from the backseat. The investigation is continuing.

Rain on Saturday for Monrovia?

70% chance of rain on Saturday. http://goo.gl/VnR5SB

- Brad Haugaard

Renaming Monrovia's Grand Avenue Park; Train-to-Old Town Shuttle; Termites; El Nino Prep

In his weekly report ( http://goo.gl/kaHkTw ), City Manager Oliver Chi mentioned, among a lot of things, that ...

~ The City is thinking about renaming Grand Avenue Park to "Kiwanis Park on Grand Avenue." A letter and advisory ballot is going out to all residents living within a certain distance of Grand Avenue Park to inform the neighborhood about the proposal to rename the facility.

~ The next company to operate Monrovia Transit will need to continue the existing dial-a-ride services and develop a new fixed-route transportation option connecting Station Square with Old Town, and possibly other locations in Monrovia. The city is evaluating the proposals of four companies.

~ Repairs began on the roof of the Historic Museum on Dec. 7. Unfortunately, it appears the building may have termites.

~ There will be El Nino prep meetings in the Library Community Room coordinated by the Fire Department and Public Services Department on Saturday, Dec. 19, 10 a.m.; Tuesday, Jan. 5, 6 p.m.; and Thursday, Jan. 21, 6 p.m.

- Brad Haugaard

Frost Warning for Monrovia Area | Bursting Bottles

~ Frost warning in effect until 9 a.m. today. http://goo.gl/35m1gp

~ Monrovia's Trader Joe's is issuing a voluntary recall of its Triple Ginger Brew due to reports of unopened bottles potentially bursting, although the ginger brew does not pose a health risk if consumed. http://goo.gl/VVtvpc

- Brad Haugaard

Wind Damage

A bit of damage from last night's wind, on Magnolia Avenue.

- Brad Haugaard

Wind | Paladins of America | Monrovia Neighbor Of The Year

~ Wind tonight up to 17 mph in Monrovia. http://goo.gl/VnR5SB

~ A group called Paladins of America, which "tell[s] the stories of the unsung heroes who embodied the American spirit to the fullest," has rented a room at the Monrovia Community Center (north side of Palm just west of Myrtle) for Friday, Jan. 8, 2016 from 7-8:15 p.m., apparently for a story-telling session. https://goo.gl/WWrNyx

~ Nominate someone for the 2016 Monrovia Neighbor of the Year Award. http://goo.gl/OGqFET

Monrovia Police: Freeway Chase; Argument Leads to Man Being Run Over; Man Beaten For Not Handing Over Money, Cigarettes; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 10-13. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Vehicle Pursuit
December 10 at 10:36 a.m., an officer on patrol in the area of Myrtle and Longden observed a motorist commit a vehicle code violation and conducted a traffic stop. As the officer walked up to the vehicle, the driver abruptly drove away. The vehicle drove east onto Longden on the wrong side of the divider. The officer went in pursuit of the motorist east on Longden and then south on the 605 Freeway. The vehicle drove on the shoulder of the freeway and pulled away from the patrol vehicle at a high rate of speed. The pursuit was terminated at the 605 and 10 Freeway interchange. The California Highway Patrol was notified of the pursuit and were responding to the area. The license plate of the vehicle was obtained and returned to a rental car company. The investigation is continuing.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered/Pursuit – Four Suspects Arrested
December 10 at 11:29 a.m., an officer located a stolen vehicle near the intersection of Colorado and Mayflower. The vehicle had been stolen in a carjacking that occurred in another jurisdiction the day before. The vehicle was headed east on Colorado. As the officer attempted to stop the vehicle by activating his lights and siren, the suspect fled in the vehicle. A short pursuit ensued through city streets and alleys. The suspect stopped at Mayflower and Colorado in an alley, four suspects exited the vehicle and ran in all directions.

Officers responded and set up containment of the area. The Foothill Air Support Team helicopter and additional resources were requested to assist. The Monrovia Detective Bureau also responded to assist with the search. Three of the suspects were located and taken into custody within several minutes. The fourth female suspect had walked onto the Monroe Elementary School campus and into their cafeteria, where students were currently eating lunch.

Police immediately redirected resources to the school. The female subject was located on campus and identified as the fourth suspect. She was taken into custody without further incident. One of the other suspects taken into custody was found to be a fugitive wanted by the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department for escaping from one of their facilities.

Vehicle Burglary
December 10 at 4:29 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 100 block of South Myrtle to investigate a theft from a vehicle. It was determined that a 2007 Toyota Camry had been broken into and several items were taken while the owner of the vehicle was inside the business. The investigation continuing.

Wanted Suspect
December 11 at 1:41 a.m., a resident in the 900 block of South Fifth Avenue who was the victim of domestic violence called police to report the wanted suspect was on his way to the location in a taxi. Officers responded to the area, but the suspect fled on foot when officers attempted to detain him. He was apprehended after a short foot chase. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Vehicle Burglary
December 11 at 10:50 a.m., a resident in the 1000 block of Maurice called police to report their vehicle had been burglarized. The victim parked and secured the vehicle in the early evening on December 10. Upon returning to the vehicle the next morning, they discovered someone had broken into it. The investigation is continuing.

Theft of Package
December 11 at 11:25 a.m., the theft of a package was reported in the 400 block of West Foothill. The package was left by UPS at the front door of the residence. A male Hispanic with facial hair, in his late 30's, wearing a black jogging suit, was seen running by the location. He ran up to the front door and took the package. Officers searched the area, but did not locate the suspect.

Vehicle Burglary
December 11 at 11:55 a.m., an officer responded to a residence in the 300 block of Madison to the report of a vehicle burglary. Change was missing from the center console and the vehicle appeared ransacked. There was no sign of forced entry, but the owner believed the vehicle was locked. The investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
December 12 at 1:45 a.m., an officer in the area of Brisbane and Myrtle observed a motorist commit a vehicle code violation. During the stop, it was determined that the driver was under the influence of alcohol. Field sobriety tests were conducted and the driver was arrested for driving under the influence. The driver was held for sobering.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon/Vehicle
December 12 at 2:10 p.m., dispatch received a call reporting that a vehicle had just run over a pedestrian in the area of Linwood and Violet. When officers arrived, they located a male subject suffering from a possible broken leg. The victim reported that he and his adult sister were in an argument. She got into a vehicle and started to leave. He asked her not to take the vehicle and stood in front of it. She then hit him with the vehicle. The victim was thrown onto the windshield and then rolled off the side and onto the ground. He sustained injuries to his leg and soreness to his upper body. Officers arrived and searched the area for the suspect, but did not locate her. A wanted person entry was made into the law enforcement database for the suspect and the vehicle.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
December 12 at 7:03 p.m., a citizen called to report that the driver next to her was consuming an alcoholic drink while stopped at Shamrock and Foothill. The citizen followed the driver while officers responded to the area. The officers located the vehicle traveling south on the 605 Freeway. Officers conducted a traffic stop and during the investigation, they determined the driver was under the influence. The driver was arrested and booked.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
December 12 at 9:57 p.m., a driver was stopped when he almost collided into a patrol unit as he failed to stop at a stop sign. The driver was stopped and determined to be under the influence of alcohol. The driver was arrested.

Robbery
December 12 at 11:00 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 700 block of West Huntington. The victim reported that he parked behind the business to purchase cigarettes. While walking back to his vehicle, he was approached by two or three male Black subjects. They asked for a cigarette and then asked for money. When the victim refused to give them either, he was punched and kicked, and he fell to the ground. The victim did not call police after the incident. He drove himself to the hospital. No further description was provided on the suspects. The investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
December 12 at 12:02 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 100 block of Montana regarding subjects drinking in public. Officers arrived and determined one of the subjects was so intoxicated that he was unable to care for himself. He was arrested for public intoxication and held for sobering.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
December 13 at 1:43 a.m., officers were notified of a possible fight in progress in the 300 block of South Myrtle between a male and female subject. When the officers arrived, the male subject had fled on foot. He was quickly detained and determined to be intoxicated to the point he could not care for himself. He was arrested for public intoxication.

Gang Injunction Violation – Suspect Arrested
December 13 at 1:47 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 800 block of West Walnut regarding a subject seen trespassing. The caller had reported that the subject had a knife and was last seen entering another nearby property. The Foothill Air Support helicopter heard the call and responded. The subject was spotted by the helicopter attempting to hide from officers. The officers were directed to the subject's location by the air unit and he was detained. During the investigation, it was determined that the subject was listed on the gang injunction and was in violation of the curfew section. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Stolen Vehicle
December 13 at 9:34 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 400 block of East Lemon. The victim parked his vehicle in front of his residence in the evening. He returned to his vehicle the next morning and discovered it missing. The vehicle is described as a black, 1993, Nissan King Cab truck. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
December 13 at 10:30 a.m., an officer responded to the 300 block of Lincoln regarding a vehicle burglary. Unknown suspects pried open the passenger door of the victim’s vehicle with some type of pry tool. The suspects then took new windshield wiper blades that were still in the box and placed on the passenger seat in plain view. The investigation is continuing.

ChapCare Gets Grant For Its Monrovia Office

UniHealth Foundation has provided a $300,000 (over 2 years) to support the Monrovia office of Community Health Alliance of Pasadena (ChapCare). ChapCare provides primary healthcare services to underrepresented, underserved, and underinsured families in Monrovia, Duarte, and Arcadia. The office is at 513 E. Lime Ave., Suite 102. Source: Press release

- Brad Haugaard

Coroner Reports Monrovia Woman Killed By Strangulation

The Coroner's Office reports that Lajoya McCoy, the Monrovia woman who was found dead in her car in June, was killed by strangulation. http://goo.gl/BsUZuR

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Council: Replace Reservoir; Ban Marijuana; Historic District; Train Depot; Etc.

At its December 15 meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/jcOvJp ), the Monrovia City Council will ...

- Consider doing some preliminary work to replace the "structurally compromised" Oakglade water reservoir, which is full of "leaks, cracks, and root intrusion" with a larger capacity reservoir, which will cost about $3 million and take two years to complete. As part of the same action, the council will consider a new water well, which will eventually cost $2.7 million. In this action, however, the council will just consider hiring Civiltec to do the design work on the projects, for $616,620. I believe the reservoir is up Canyon, right at the point where it turns into Oakglade. http://goo.gl/eIOjEb

- Consider prohibiting the delivery of marijuana and medical marijuana products to and from the city, and prohibiting mobile marijuana dispensaries in the city. http://goo.gl/ihahxd

- Hear a report on historic districts in Monrovia. Here's the report: http://goo.gl/3mvGPO

- Again consider a deal with Daylight Limited, LLC to fix up the historic Santa Fe Depot. (The deal was on the agenda last meeting but the proposal wasn't ready, so i was put off to this meeting.) http://goo.gl/cVrlSQ

- Consider contracting with two companies to do engineering and landscape design work for Julian Fisher Park. http://goo.gl/eIOjEb

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Sow House


Dinner at the new Sow (as in "sow" seed) House at Myrtle and Lime. The former Opera Cafe. Got The Burger with sweet potato fries ($16) and a beer ($6). Good big burger.
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Young Musicians' Ensemble Offering 'Carol-Grams'


A new community band called MYME (Monrovia Young Musicians' Ensemble) is having its first annual "Carol-Gram" fundraiser. For $5 have the band sing for family or friends at their homes. Carol-Grams delivered in the evening, at varying times. Pricing: $5 per song, three-song minimum. Send desired date, time, and number of songs to monroviayoungmusicians@gmail.com Please include your name, phone number, the recipient of the carolgram's name and address, and any other important information or special requests. Payments accepted as cash, check, or through PayPal. Available dates: Saturday, Dec. 12, Sunday, Dec. 13, Friday, Dec. 18, Saturday, Dec. 19, Sunday, Dec. 20, Monday, Dec. 21, Tuesday, Dec. 22, Wednesday, Dec. 23.

MYME is comprised of Monrovia middle and high school students, with the goal of serving our community, nurturing the artistic and personal growth of young musicians, sharing music with local audiences, and raising awareness of the necessity to keep music education alive in local schools.

- Brad Haugaard

Getting Monrovia Ready For El Nino

Monrovia has set up a couple of meetings on how to be prepared for El Nino. Plus some links. Here: http://goo.gl/ZIJYDR

- Brad Haugaard

Suspects Arrested in Monrovia in Suspected Car Theft

Suspects arrested in suspected car theft after Monrovia Police match license to stolen car list. http://goo.gl/Q9oPsG

- Brad Haugaard

Anti-Theft Tips For Christmas From Monrovia Police

Don’t Fill Your Vehicle With Presents for Thieves!
It only takes a few seconds for thieves to break into your vehicle and steal your valuables. It only takes a few seconds to remove your valuables and lock your vehicle.

Park as close to entrances and exits as you can. No one wants to circle the lot for an hour waiting for a good spot to open up, but give it a shot, at least for a few minutes. If forced to the far reaches of a lot, seek a spot that's well-lighted.

Stow your purchases in the trunk. When you're weighed down with packages, you may be tempted to throw them in the back seat and return to the mall to continue shopping. You may even want to move your vehicle in case someone is watching you put your purchases in your trunk. If your purchases are in plain view, you may return to find your car windows smashed and your presents stolen. Save your most expensive purchases for last, so you can head straight home. Have your keys ready when you approach your vehicle. Before entering, check that no one is hiding in the back seat.

Auto-burglary prevention starts by limiting the criminal's opportunity to commit the crime and can be accomplished with very little time and effort. Criminals are looking for something to steal - don't supply the valuables. Leaving your valuables in your vehicle instantly makes your car a target for thieves. Always lock your vehicle. Take a few seconds to prevent auto-burglary! Don't be a victim!

Prevent Theft of Packages
Theft of packages is an easy crime to commit and can be perpetrated by even the least professional type of criminal.

Request a specific drop off time when you know that you will be at home to receive the package. Ask for your parcel to be placed on a back porch or even beside the front porch or anywhere that is not visible from the street.

Arrange to pick up your parcels at a package store, such as a UPS store that is convenient for you. Let a trustworthy neighbor know you are expecting a package delivery on a specific day and ask them to look out for it and bring it into their home for you.

Have your package delivered to your work address during daytime hours. Know when a package is scheduled to arrive and if it doesn't, contact the sender to track the transport status of the package. And if you see mail theft happening in your neighborhood, be sure to call your local police at once to report exactly what you have seen. Time can be a decisive factor in the apprehension of mail thieves.

Monrovia Police: Burglars Can't Break a Safe; Stealing from Mailboxes; Stolen Credit Cards Used In 30 Minutes

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 7-9. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 389 service events, resulting in 72 investigations.

Residential Burglary
December 7 at 3:51 p.m., police responded to the report of a residential burglary in the 400 block of Highland. Suspects shattered a rear glass door of the home and entered the property. They removed a safe that was bolted down and took it out of the house. They attempted to open the safe in the driveway using various tools, but were unsuccessful. They fled the scene with jewelry taken from the residence. The investigation is continuing.

Attempt Vehicle Burglary
December 7 at 5:01 p.m., an attempt vehicle burglary was reported in the 300 block of South Heliotrope. An unknown suspect shattered the window on a 2006 Toyota Camry. Nothing was taken. The investigation is continuing.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 7 at 6:53 p.m., officers were dispatched to a domestic violence incident in the 100 block of East Lemon Avenue. The investigation revealed no crime had occurred. The subjects involved had been in an ongoing verbal argument throughout the weekend. The female subject was found to have an outstanding warrant for her arrest. She was arrested and taken into custody for the warrant.

Grand Theft Auto
December 7 at 8:45 p.m., a stolen vehicle was located in the 2000 block of South Myrtle. The suspect vehicle turned into a residential driveway in the 200 block of Montana Avenue. The suspect exited the truck and fled on foot. Containment of the area was established and a search was conducted with the assistance of the Sierra Madre Police Department, The Foothill Air Support Team helicopter and an El Monte Police Department canine unit. The suspect was not located. The investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
December 8 at 12:53 p.m., officers responded to a domestic violence incident in the 600 block of Parker. A husband and wife were involved in an argument. During the argument, the wife attempted to walk away and the husband struck her in the neck with a closed fist. The husband was arrested for domestic violence.

Mail Theft
December 8 at 3:19 p.m., an incident of mail theft was reported in the 1200 block of South Mayflower. Several mailboxes were forced open and mail was taken from six of the mailboxes. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
December 8 at 7:20 p.m., an officer responded to the 400 block of Sunset regarding a residential burglary. The resident left the location at 6:00 p.m. and believes he secured all the doors and windows. As the homeowner was driving away, he noticed a 1990's, white, Toyota Sienna van driving slowly in the neighborhood. At the time he did not think anything of it. He returned home at 7:05 p.m. and found his home had been ransacked and a jar of coins and two old cell phones were taken. It appears the suspects gained entry through an unlocked rear sliding door. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
December 9 at 12:32 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a vehicle burglary that occurred in the 600 block of West Huntington. Suspects smashed the window on a 1997 GMC Safari and took a stereo from the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Theft From a Vehicle
December 9 at 7:17 p.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 900 block of West Duarte Road. The victim parked her vehicle on the street and walked to the preschool to pick up her child, leaving her purse and cell phone in the vehicle. After picking up her child and driving away from the school, she noticed her purse and cell phone were missing. Although less than 30 minutes had passed, her credit cards had already been used at the mall in Arcadia. There was no sign of forced entry to the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Rain for Monrovia?

50% chance of rain Friday and Sunday. http://goo.gl/VnR5SB

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Library Creating Giant Index

Monrovia Library is embarking on a "Giant Index Project" to create a - uh - giant index of all the "annotated indexes of the major histories of Monrovia currently in our possession." http://goo.gl/Z10Qtf

- Brad Haugaard

December events in Monrovia

~ Friday, Dec. 11 - First Presbyterian Church presents "A Family Christmas Celebration" for the entire family and friends. 101 E Foothill. Musical performances, Christmas carole sing-a-Long, Santa Claus and more; 7:30 p.m. Information 358-3297.

~ Saturday, Dec. 12 - Cookie Exchange for MS at United Methodist Church of Monrovia, 140 E Palm Ave (downstairs on west side of the building) Bring 6 dozen preferably homemade cookies in disposable container and bring another container to take home 5 dozen cookies; remaining dozen is packaged at end of exchange for a special holiday gift for MS Group members. No need to RSVP. Information/questions call Janie Duncan 358-8157.

~ Friday, Dec. 18 - Foothill Unity Center Holiday Food Box Packing Day distribution. Varying shifts available; must RSVP, contact Rachel Black at rachel@foothillunitycenter.org.

~ Saturday, 2-3:30 p.m. Dec. 19 - Monrovia Library Gingerbread House Decorating. Create your own masterpiece. For the family. Supplies limited. Free for all ages.

Thanks to Becky Shevlin for letting me draw from her excellent community calendar.

- Brad Haugaard

AeroVironment Stock Jumps | Christmas in Old Town Monrovia

~ Stock in Monrovia's AeroVironment has taken a big jump following a good quarter. Up about 15%, from about 24.5 to 28.21.

~ Nice Christmas pictures of Old Town Monrovia at Gem City Images: http://goo.gl/FBCRrn

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's AeroVironment Profitable On Drone Sales

Monrovia's AeroVironment jumped to profitability in the latest quarter with revenues up 23% on sales of its drone aircraft. http://goo.gl/YV5ssd

- Brad Haugaard

Christmas Safety Tips from SCE

Tips for safe decorating with lights this Christmas season from Southern California Edison: http://goo.gl/2Z57F0

- Brad Haugaard

'Around the Clock' Construction at Monrovia High; Subdividing Old Albertson's; Pension Cost Worries; 4th Dimension Hearings

From City Manager Oliver Chi's weekly report ( http://goo.gl/kaHkTw ) ...

- By special permission of the city, reconstruction at Monrovia High will continue "around the clock." Chi said that, "Given the emergency situation, the City has authorized the MUSD staff and contractors to work beyond normal construction hours."

- The new owner of the old Albertson's building on Huntington Drive is Warner Pacific Properties. Chi said the company would like to subdivide the space for three users and build a 2,500 square foot structure closer to Huntington Drive.

- The State Auditor's Office decided not to do a full audit of Monrovia, but did, Chi said, express "their specific concerns about our overall operations, which centered around pension costs, the City's ability to pay for non-pension related retirement benefits, public safety overtime costs, grant management, and contract administration." But, he said, representatives of the Auditor's Office "acknowledged that the City was already working on the development and implementation of better systems to address the areas where they had identified operational weaknesses."

- More hearings on the proposal to turn the 4th Dimension pool haall into the Community Center and the Community Center into housing: At the Community Services Commission (Tuesday, Dec. 8, 7 p.m., Community Center). Presentation of a preliminary floor plan for the new proposed Community Center. Also, at the Historic Preservation Commission (Wednesday, Dec. 16, 6:30 p.m., City Hall). Discussion to include the exterior designs for the proposed Community Center. And, there should be a City Council study session sometime in January about the project. Here's an overview of the project: http://goo.gl/6tkpNh

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Burglar Gets Books; Too Many Christmas Lights; Lawn Decorations Stolen; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 3-6. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Grand Theft Auto
December 3 at 6:33 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 600 block of West Lemon Avenue. The victim parked his vehicle in front of his residence the night before. He returned to the vehicle in the morning and discovered it was missing. The investigation is continuing.

Found Property
December 4 at 8:59 p.m., an officer on patrol found several pieces of mail laying in the street in the area of Oakglade and Ridgeside. The mail belonged to two addresses in the area. There have been several recent cases reporting mail tampering in Monrovia that have been reported to the United States Postal Inspector. The investigation is continuing.

Warrants/Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
December 5 at 6:24 p.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 500 block of West Huntington regarding a possible theft that just occurred. The subject fled the store followed by a loss prevention officer. Officers arrived and located the suspect, but no theft could be substantiated. An identification check, however, revealed the subject had over $400,000 in outstanding warrants for his arrest. During a pat-down search, a baggie of cocaine was found on his person. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
December 5 at 11:47 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 900 block of West Foothill. A driver was traveling east on Foothill and reported that he veered for a pedestrian and struck a parked vehicle. The pedestrian could not be located, and the investigation revealed the driver was unlicensed and uninsured. The suspect was issued a citation for driving without a license, unsafe turning movement and not having insurance. His vehicle was impounded.

Warrants/Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
December 6 at 12:44 a.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop in the 900 block of South Fifth Avenue for a traffic violation. The investigation revealed the passenger had outstanding warrants for her arrest. She was also found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody. She was later released to the custody of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department on the warrants.

Vehicle Burglary Investigation
December 6 at 8:47 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 100 block of Mauna Loa. The victim parked his vehicle on the street. Sometime overnight an unknown suspect entered the vehicle by smashing the right front passenger window. The suspect then reached through the window and removed the victim's nylon bag, which contained books and miscellaneous papers. The investigation is continuing.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision/Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 6 at 2:13 p.m., officers responded to a non-injury traffic collision in the 500 block of Duarte Road and discovered one of the drivers involved in the collision was intoxicated. The driver was arrested for driving under influence and was taken into custody. The suspect was held for sobering and later released on a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Structure Fire
December 6 at 7:33 p.m., officers were dispatched to a structure fire in the 200 block of West Palm. The investigation revealed the tenants had plugged in too many Christmas decorations into one outlet, which caused an electrical fire. The structure sustained extensive damage and is uninhabitable.

Petty Theft of Christmas Decorations
December 6 at 7:48 p.m., a resident in the 100 block of West Greystone Avenue reported that Christmas decorations displayed on her lawn were stolen. A witness described the suspect as a thin male subject in a dark colored Acura Integra, but had no further description. The investigation is continuing.

Watch for Christmas Grinches! | Battle of the Cookies



~ I've heard several reports of Christmas decorations being stolen, so be careful, though I'm not sure how. A correspondent writes that Sunday evening "this display plus multiple strings of Christmas lights were stolen from our front yard. A neighbor had come to our door, saying that he had just seen the thief throwing the items into his trunk before taking off."

~ Pepperidge Farm, Inc. is suing Monrovia-based Trader Joe's, claiming trademark infringement because TJ's is selling a cookie that it claims looks too much like its Milano cookie. http://goo.gl/ZTkC9e

- Brad Haugaard

Have Breakfast Sunday With the Monrovia VFW

Join VFW Post 2070 for its monthly Sunday breakfast, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. "Eggs and omelettes made to order, bacon and sausage, potatoes and hash-browns. You will not leave hungry! And, it's just $6! 825 S. Magnolia Ave."

- Brad Haugaard

Hyundai Picks Monrovia's AeroVironment as Electric Car Partner

Hyundai picks Monrovia-based AeroVironment to provide dealer charging stations for the new 2016 Sonata Plug-in Hybrid model. http://goo.gl/XpqE79

- Brad Haugaard

Damage to High School Estimated at $6 Million; Etc.

At its Dec. 9 meeting (agenda: here ), the Monrovia School Board will ...

- Have the unhappy duty of authorizing money to repair the damage to the high school caused by the recent arson. The district estimates the total cost at about $6 million, most of which will be covered by insurance but the district will have to pay the $25,000 deductible, and may get its insurance costs jacked up. Source

- Have the happier duty of honoring Santa Fe Middle School teacher Nedra Graham and Monrovia High teacher Ann Van Dyke as winners in the California League of Schools "Educator of the Year" program; Mountain Park student Heather Merceica for her top entry in the national Future Engineers 3d Space Container Challenge; Monrovia High's Math and Science Academy for winning a Golden Bell award.

- Thank the Monrovia Fire and Police for their prompt response to the recent high school fire.

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Saigon Avenue


Dinner Wednesday night at Saigon Avenue, just off Myrtle on the south side of Lemon. Got the chicken curry ($9.95) and a beer ($5). Very good! I enjoyed it a lot. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Ask A Scientist About DNA Sequencing - Science Series Launches in Monrovia

Ask Dr. Marc M. Baum, President and Senior Faculty of the Oak Crest Institute of Science about "DNA Sequencing in Our Daily Life," Tuesday, Dec. 8, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. at Jake's Road House, 622 S. Myrtle Ave. This event, hosted by MADIA Tech Launch, begins a new "Ask a Scientist" series. Each event will feature an expert speaker who will present a casual, educational and entertaining 5-10 minute overview on a scientific topic. Audience members can then ask all the tough questions.

The Oak Crest Institute of Science is launching this quarterly "science cafe" to let local scientists, researchers, entrepreneurs and community members meet and discuss current scientific or technological topics with the region's leading scientists. The events will be held at various locations throughout the San Gabriel Valley.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia High Smoke Damage Forces Church to Meet on Football Field

Smoke damage from the recent arson at Monrovia High means Fellowship Monrovia, the church that meets in the school auditorium, will not be able to meet there, so it's meeting on the school's football field at all three services (8:30, 10, and 11:30 a.m.). They're calling it, "Fellowship in the End Zone."

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Shoplifting Suspect Given Ticket; Apologetic Thief; Car Rollover; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for November 30 – December 2. - Brad Haugaard]

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

Non-injury Traffic Collision
November 30 at 9:55 a.m., a traffic collision was reported at the intersection of Primrose and Maple. The collision occurred when a vehicle made a complete stop at Primrose and Maple, failed to yield for an oncoming vehicle and the two collided in the intersection. No injuries were sustained.

Vandalism
November 30 at 4:44 p.m., a caller reported that several street signs in the 400 block of North Grand Avenue had been vandalized with a black Sharpie marker. The investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting
November 30 at 5:09 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a business in the 100 block of West Foothill on the report a shoplifter in custody. A male suspect entered the store, selected alcohol and miscellaneous medications, and then fled the store without paying for the merchandise. The suspect was detained by a store loss prevention officer. An officer responded and the suspect was arrested and taken into custody. He was later released with a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Shoplifting
November 30 at 8:29 p.m., a male suspect entered a business in the 500 block West Huntington. He selected a pair of black gloves and walked out of the store without paying for the merchandise. The suspect was followed across the street by a loss prevention officer. Police arrived and detained the suspect. The suspect was positively identified by the loss prevention officer and placed under citizen’s arrest for petty theft. The suspect was taken into custody. He was later released on a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Grand Theft
November 30 at 8:59 p.m., a business in the 400 block of South Myrtle called police to report a grand theft. A male Hispanic suspect entered the business and walked around the store several times. The suspect then grabbed two Black Smart Balance Wheels that were near the cash register area, apologized to the clerk and fled on foot with the merchandise. The suspect was captured on video surveillance and the investigation is continuing. The Monrovia Police Department is seeking help in identifying the suspect. Please see the Monrovia Police Department website for photos of the suspect.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered
December 1 at 2:45 p.m., a stolen vehicle was located in the 300 block of East Central. Officers followed the vehicle and stopped the suspects in the 400 block of Montana. Two suspects in the vehicle were arrested and taken into custody.

Rollover Traffic Collision
December 2 at 4:45 p.m., officers responded to the report of a rollover traffic collision in the 700 block of Monterey. The occupants had to be extricated by the Monrovia Fire Department, but only minor injuries were sustained.

Residential Burglary
December 2 at 8:31 p.m., officers were dispatched to an alarm activation at a residence in the 100 block of Sutter Creek. The suspects shattered a rear glass door to enter the home and ransacked the master bedroom. They left the location through the front door, leaving it ajar. The investigation is continuing.

'Hairspray' Play Moves to Arcadia After Monrovia High Arson

With the arson at Monrovia High, the performance of Hairspray is moving to the Arcadia Performing Arts Center, 188 Campus Road, Arcadia. Performances at 8 p.m. on Friday (Dec. 4), at 2 and 8 pm on Saturday (Dec. 5) and at 5pm on Sunday (Dec. 6). Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors, and $15 for students with I.D. Tickets can be purchased through LKTaylorperformingarts.com and brownpapertickets.com or at Monrovia Travel on Myrtle Avenue. Tickets will also be available at the door at each performance.

Comment: Thanks for helping, neighbors!

- Brad Haugaard

Robot Competition at Monrovia High This Saturday

Monrovia High is hosting an open-to-the-public robot qualifying tournament this Saturday, Dec. 5. Qualifying matches are from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and elimination matches from 3-5 p.m. Almost 300 robotics students and their robots will compete. Monrovia has 50 robotics students divided into five teams: R.E.D., Kings & Queens, Suit Bots, Thavma, and Spectrum. If you'd like to support the MHS program contact Thomas Dobson at tdobson@monrovia.k12.ca.us

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia New Year's Eve Party

New Year's Eve on Myrtle, Dec. 31, 7 p.m. to midnight. Beer and wine garden, midnight toast and ball rising, live band "Night Owl", family-friendly area, kids area. For more information contact Pam Fitzpatrick 862-4297. http://goo.gl/f9ucmO

- Brad Haugaard

State Auditor Decides Against Full Audit of Monrovia | Train Station Rehab Decision Delayed

~ Following an initial assessment, the State Auditor's Office has decided not to do a full audit of Monrovia's finances. http://goo.gl/elzebG

~ The City Council decided to delay until its Dec. 15 meeting a decision about hiring Daylight Limited to rehab the old Monrovia train station. http://goo.gl/rPy3fV

- Brad Haugaard

MOOYAH Burger Coming to Monrovia

MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes will open a restaurant in the Pavillions shopping area at Foothill and Myrtle in Monrovia. It'll be in the unit just west of Blaze Pizza. I've asked the publicist when and am waiting for an answer. It is a "new fast casual 'better burger' concept." Here's the website: http://www.mooyah.com/

- Brad Haugaard

Healthcare Enrollment Event in Monrovia

ChapCare will host a Covered California health insurance enrollment event at its 513 E. Lime Ave. location on Dec. 12 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Counselors will answer questions and help people enroll in a low or no-cost health insurance plan. Open enrollment lasts until Jan. 31. During the first two open enrollment periods, 90% of people who purchased a Covered California plan qualified for financial assistance. ChapCare can also help enroll in Medi-Cal or the Los Angeles County My Health LA Program. You will need a California driver's license, ID, passport, or utility bill; recent paystubs, last year's tax return; Social Security Card, Naturalization Certificate, Employment Authorization Card, Residency Cards.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia To Consider Marijuana Regulations | Christmas Tree Lighting And Parade

From City Manager Oliver Chi's weekly update (http://goo.gl/B2TU39) ...

- In response to the state passing the Medical Marijuana Regulation and Safety Act, which added new procedures pertaining to the cultivation, distribution, and transportation of medical marijuana facilities, the city plans to change its municipal code on medical marijuana dispensaries and related activities. The proposed ordinance will be introduced on Dec. 15, with the final public hearing and consideration scheduled for Jan. 19, 2016.

- The Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Parade will take place this Thursday, Dec. 3 at 6 p.m. with the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony in Library Park, then the Holiday Parade at 7 p.m. The parade will travel north on Myrtle from Chestnut to Palm and will be led by Grand Marshal Chuck Keen, a Monrovia resident who has dedicated his life to support our local veterans and military personnel.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Merchant Robbed; Church Holiday Events


~ The Monrovia store Dollmakers Kattywompus, on Myrtle in Old Town, is looking for the man in this photo. The store writes on Facebook: "If you recognize him, please call the Monrovia PD @ (626) 256-8000. He stood there and did some friendly chatting with our Miss Cindy, then said "Sorry!" as he picked up two Hoverboards and ran out the door with them. A HUGE financial loss for a small family owned store like ours." More info: http://goo.gl/wJv6FL

~ The San Gabriel Valley Choral Company presents "Ring in the Holidays!" on Saturday, Dec. 12 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Luke's Episcopal Church at 122 S. California Ave. The event features Cantata 140 "Wachet Auf" by J.S. Bach, plus film music, popular hits, folk songs, and traditional choral favorites with a holiday theme. In addition to the adult singers, students in Kindergarten through 7th grade will sing to culminate their participation in the "Kids in Concert!" singing workshop produced by SGVCC. Tickets are $20 at the door ($15 seniors/students, $5 children under 12). Purchase tickets at http://www.sgvccsingers.org or by check (SGVCC; P.O. Box 2225; Monrovia, CA 91017).

~ Sacred Christmas Service at Bethel African Episcopal Church, 148 W. Lime, Dec. 13 at 11 a.m. with guest preacher Rev. Lynn Gabriel. http://www.bethelmonrovia.com/ or 930-1120

- Brad Haugaard