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1776 Gastro Pub Opens in Monrovia

 
1776 - All American Gastro Pub, has opened on the east side of Myrtle just south of Lemon.
 
- Brad Haugaard 

Happy New Year, Monrovia!

 
The crowd is a bit sparse at the New Year's Eve Celebration, but the rain has stopped, the band is playing, and the night is still young. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Dinner at La Adelita

 
Dinner last night at La Adelita, on the south side of Colorado a half block east of Myrtle. I got the Carne con Pappas (potatoes) for $11.99 and a beer for $3 (happy hour price).  Tasty and filling. Had to take a couple of the tortillas home.

- Brad Haugaard 

New Year's Eve In Monrovia | City in Good Financial Health | Dogs and Cats at Council Meetings | Community Services Officer

In his weekly report ( https://goo.gl/o0dtDA ), City Manager Oliver Chi reports that ...

~ New Year's Eve on Myrtle Avenue begins at 6 p.m. with the opening of a kids and family area in Old Town. Then the band, Night Owl, will perform as the beer and wine garden opens at 7 p.m. The party culminates with the New Year's Eve Ball Raising, which will happen as the clock strikes midnight. Admission is free. Beer and wine are $7 each and you must be at least 21 to enter the adult beverage location. ID required.

~ The city's auditor, Lance, Soll, Lunghard (LSL) intends to give Monrovia an "unmodified" (that's the best) opinion of the city's finances. Also, the auditor says the city is in "strong financial health" and has "established effective internal financial controls."

~ The Pasadena Humane Society, which serves Monrovia, will begin presenting an adoptable pet once a month at upcoming City Council meetings. First presentation at the Jan. 17 meeting.

~ The City may hire half of a Community Services Officer, who would handle administrative tasks for the police. Monrovia is chatting about it with the City of Bradbury, which proposed splitting the costs and time of the officer, thus freeing officers for higher priority tasks. Tasks would include: taking over the investigation of crimes with few or no workable leads, investigation of non-injury traffic collisions, enforcing parking restrictions, writing crime reports, and handling other public safety tasks.



Monrovia's Assemblyman to Run Utilities and Energy Committee

Assemblymember Chris Holden, who represents Monrovia, has been named chair of the California State Assembly Committee on Utilities and Energy. Its responsibilities include public utilities, the California Public Utilities Commission, energy companies, telecommunications and international trade, among others. Source: Holden press release.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Christmas Tree Pick-Up

To recycle your Christmas Tree, place it curbside on your regular trash collection day from Dec. 26 through Jan. 8, 2017. Please remove all ornaments, tinsel, plastic bags, nails, lights, and plastic or metal stands. Flocked and trees coated with fire retardant will be accepted. https://goo.gl/N3GoMj

- Brad Haugaard

Merry Christmas, Monrovia!


The birth of Jesus, portrayed in this manger scene in front of Monrovia's First Presbyterian Church at Foothill and Myrtle.
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. - Isaiah 9:6
- Brad Haugaard 

Dinner at Noor's Indian Bistro

 
Dinner last night at Noor's Indian Bistro, at the southeast corner of Foothill and Myrtle. I got the chicken Tikka Marsala for $13.95, a large beer for $9 and rice (not shown) for two for $4. Tasty and filling.
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's Trader Joe's Will Have a Food Train in Rose Parade

Monrovia-based Trader Joe's will have a float in the Rose Parade this year. Called, All Aboard, it is a 75-foot food-meets-train float. https://goo.gl/xZAKSX

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Suspected Thief Bites on Bait; Stolen Mail; Fake Gun; Etc.

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

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 387 service events, resulting in 74 investigations.

Theft of Mail
December 19 at 7:25 a.m., an officer responded to an apartment complex in the 1800 block of S. Alta Vista regarding a theft of mail. This was the second time in a week that the mail had been stolen from the mailboxes. It appears the suspects may have a key, because there was no sign of forced entry and all the boxes were wide open. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
December 19 at 8:46 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 200 block of N. Primrose regarding a vehicle burglary. The victim parked and locked her vehicle on the street in front of her residence the night before. When she returned to the vehicle in the morning, she discovered the driver's side rear window had been smashed out and some items that she left in the vehicle had been taken. The investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft – Suspects Arrested
December 19 at 8:16 p.m., security at a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington called and stated two subjects were hiding items from their store on their persons. Officers arrived and detained the two suspects. One subject was arrested for petty theft and the other was arrested for petty theft and possession of another's identification with intent to defraud. Both suspects were taken into custody.

Attempt Residential Burglary
December 20 at 12:51 a.m., an attempt break-in was reported at a residence in the 500 block of Diamond. The caller had arrived at her boyfriend’s house and was at the door when she heard glass breaking and a male subject running from the rear of the residence. The female activated her vehicle alarm to scare the subject away. The suspect had entered the rear yard of the residence and broke a window. The resident was sleeping inside and did not hear the suspect break the back window. The investigation is continuing.

Ex-Felon With a Replica Gun / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 20 at 2:00 a.m., an officer contacted a subject near a closed business in the 700 block of W. Huntington. A computer check revealed the subject had a warrant for his arrest. A search of the subject's property revealed an orange flare gun that had been painted black to make it look like a real gun. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Stolen Bait Package / Vehicle Pursuit – Suspect Arrested
December 20 at 8:19 a.m., dispatch received an activation alert that a police bait package was taken from a residence in the 200 block of N. Mountain. An officer located the suspect vehicle and initiated a traffic stop, but the vehicle abruptly sped off west on Foothill. The officer advised the vehicle was failing to yield and he was in pursuit of the vehicle. Officers lost sight of the vehicle after the driver entered the 210 Freeway. They were able to relocate the vehicle using the tracking system in the bait package. The officers followed the vehicle to a residence in Baldwin Park, where the male driver and a female passenger fled from the vehicle. The female passenger was taken into custody and detectives are trying to ascertain the male driver’s identity. The investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft / Possession of Burglary Tools – Suspect Arrested
December 20 at 3:15 p.m., security at a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington called to report they had detained a subject inside their store in possession of bolt cutters, but they let him go. The suspect then walked inside another business and selected numerous pieces of clothing and items from the electronics department. He then entered the dressing room. The suspect was inside the dressing room for approximately 30 minutes. When officers confronted the suspect, he was dressed in the stolen clothing. The suspect was arrested for petty theft and possession of burglary tools.

Vehicle Burglary
December 20 at 10:52 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in a public parking lot in the 100 block of E. Lime. Several bags left inside the vehicle were taken. The suspects were possibly driving a Honda Odyssey van, gray in color. The investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 21 at 2:19 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation in the area of Monterey and Huntington. The investigation determined the driver was too impaired to drive a motor vehicle safely due to being intoxicated. The female driver was arrested and taken into custody for DUI.

Traffic Collision
December 22 at 2:11 a.m., officers responded to the report of a solo vehicle traffic collision at Myrtle and Chestnut. The driver was distracted by his cell phone and collided with the center divider, striking a tree. The driver complained of pain, but refused to be taken to a hospital.

Monrovia's Senator Wants a President Obama Freeway

State Senator Anthony Portantino, who represents Monrovia, has introduced Resolution, SCR 8, which would name the 134 Freeway between the Glendale CA-2 and the Interstate 210 Freeway the "President Barack H. Obama Freeway." Obama attended Occidental College in Eagle Rock from 1979 to 1981 and lived in Pasadena during his sophomore year. Source: Portantino Press Release

- Brad Haugaard

Lumber Yard Restaurant/Retail Area Moving Forward; Water Tax; Home Decorating Winners; Carriage Rides - Last Day; Library Training

Proposed Lumber Yard Restaurant/Retail Area

In his weekly report ( https://goo.gl/7plGY4 ), City Manager Oliver Chi writes ...

~ With Planning Commission approval, the Lumber Yard at Myrtle Avenue, an artisan food and beverage village, is set to move forward.  The project, in the Station Square area, is anticipated to have around 23,000 square feet of restaurant and retail space surrounding a courtyard next to the City's Gold Line stop.

~ The Main San Gabriel Basin Watermaster plans to charge an assessment (tax) next year to pay for 40,000-60,000 acre feet of water from the Metropolitan Water District.

~ Holiday Home Decorating Contest winners:
Most Effective Use of Lighting - 214 South Alta Vista Avenue
Best Still Display - 205 Acacia Avenue
Holiday Spirit Award - 300 Block of North Alta Vista Avenue
Best Outdoor Display -911 Crescent Drive
Children's Choice Award - 309  N. Madison Ave.
Best Window Display - 208  S. Mayflower Ave.
Best Decorated Outdoor Tree - 308  W. Lemon Ave.
Snowman Award - 1517 Encino Avenue
Best Neighborhood Effort - Rochelle Avenue (2500 block)
Tim McKeehan "Best of the Season" - 541 Valmont Drive
Judges Award - Valmont Drive & Valmont Place
Santa's Workshop Award - 333 Norumbega Drive

~ Last day for horse-drawn carriage rides in Old Town is this Thursday, Dec. 22 from 5 to 8 p.m.  Rides are $2 per person.

~ The Monrovia Library has been selected as one of 12 libraries nationwide to participate in a new training program put on by Infopeople, which provides continuing education and professional development opportunities to library professionals nationwide.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Girl Makes Tasty Dog Houses for Children's Hospital and Animal Rescue

Monrovia girl makes rawhide and peanut butter houses for dogs. For sale for $10 and all proceeds go to Children's Hospital and animal rescue. https://goo.gl/UWFqNu

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police Plan Drunk-Driver/Driver's License Checkpoint Dec. 30

Monrovia Police Department will be conducting a DUI/CDL checkpoint on Friday night, Dec. 30. Vehicles entering the checkpoint will be stopped. Drivers will then be evaluated for being under the influence of alcohol and checked for having a valid driver's license.

Over the course of the past three years, DUI collisions have resulted in 30 injury crashes, harming 41 of our citizens and neighbors of Monrovia.

In California, this deadly crime led to countless deaths because someone failed to designate a sober driver. Alcohol and drug-impaired deaths still make up the largest category of overall vehicle fatalities, with 29% of all deaths being caused by a drunk driver.

Monrovia Police reminds everyone that they can assist in preventing this crime from ever occurring. If you are planning a gathering or celebration with alcohol included, or if you are out on the town, plan ahead and designate a non-drinking sober driver. A DUI and drug-impaired arrest can cost up to $10,000 or more for the first offense, including time in jail, the loss or your driver's license and higher insurance rates.

These enforcement efforts are funded by a grant from the State of California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Remember, everyone is encouraged to do your part to keep our roadways safe; Report Drunk Drivers - Call 911.

Source: Monrovia Police press release

- Brad Haugaard

Rain Likely, But Christmas Should be Mostly Sunny

Good chance of some rain Thursday (30%), Friday (30%), and Saturday (60%), but should be mostly sunny for Christmas. https://goo.gl/0qMTb8

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Bear Deported to Azusa; Hands in Pockets; Wife Beaten; Drunkeness

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

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Bear Incident
December 16 at 11:10 a.m., a bear was reported in the 100 block of N. Lincoln. The bear had wandered into a back yard. The bear had previously been tagged and it appeared injured. Pasadena Humane and the Department of Fish and Wildlife were notified. The bear was tranquilized and taken into Azusa Canyon.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
December 16 at 4:25 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 1400 block of Magnolia Avenue on the report of several subjects arguing and causing a disturbance. Officers arrived and were told that a male adult had been arguing with residents. The subject left the area prior to police arrival. The officers located the subject and determined he could not care for himself due to his level of intoxication. He was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Grand Theft Auto
December 16 at 9:56 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 500 block of W. Huntington. The victim parked her vehicle at the location and went into work. When she returned, she found her vehicle was missing. The investigation is continuing.

Resisting and Delaying a Peace Officer / Possession of Burglary Tools – Suspect Arrested
December 16 at 10:08 p.m., an officer stopped a bicyclist in the 500 block of W. Huntington for a vehicle code violation. The subject would not comply with the officer's repeated commands to remove his hands from his pockets. Officers gained control of the subject's hands and detained him. The subject was found to be in possession of burglary tools. He was arrested and taken into custody for resisting and delaying a peace officer and possession of burglary tools.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 17 at 2:14 a.m., an officer observed a vehicle commit a vehicle code violation in the 400 block of S. Myrtle and stopped the vehicle. While speaking to the driver, the officer noted obvious signs of alcohol intoxication. The driver was arrested for DUI and held for a sobering period.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
December 18 at 1:04 a.m., police responded to the report of a domestic disturbance in the 1100 block of S. Myrtle. The caller reported that she heard what sounded like a male hitting a female at the location. An officer arrived and contacted a male and female that are married and have a child together. The child was sleeping at the time of this incident. After speaking with subjects, it was determined that the male subject was the aggressor in the incident. He was arrested for domestic violence and taken into custody.

Residential Burglary
December 18 at 7:55 a.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 500 block of Valmont. The resident was out of town, but was alerted by his security alarm that there was movement on his property. The resident called his neighbor to have him check his yard, but did not call police. The neighbor checked and discovered a rear slider had been smashed, so the neighbor called police. Officers arrived and checked the residence, but the suspects had fled the location. The loss was cash from a small safe. The investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
December 18 at 9:15 p.m., police dispatch received a call regarding a subject who was causing a disturbance at a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington. Officers arrived and located the subject in the business parking lot. The subject was found to be extremely intoxicated and unable to care for himself and his own safety. The subject was arrested for being drunk in public and held for a sobering period.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
December 19 at 1:29 a.m., officers saw a subject lying down on the sidewalk at Myrtle and Foothill. They stopped to check on the welfare of the subject. The officers determined the subject was too intoxicated to care for his own safety. The subject was arrested for being drunk in public and was held for a sobering period.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 19 at 3:55 a.m., officers observed a vehicle commit a vehicle code violation at Huntington and Primrose, and they stopped the vehicle. While speaking to the driver, the officer noted symptoms of alcohol intoxication. After investigation, the driver was arrested for DUI, held for a sobering period and later released with a citation to appear in court.

Monrovia Council: Is City Charging Right Amount for Sewer, Water? Selling Myrtle/Huntington Property for Hotel; Monrovia Legacy; Etc.

At its next meeting on Tuesday (agenda: https://goo.gl/W9UAuA ), the Monrovia City Council will ...

~ Consider hiring NBS Government Finance Group for $57,915 to study whether the city is charging the right amount for water and sewer services. https://goo.gl/DD2H86

~ Consider some legal gymnastics required by the state to sell six parcels of property at the southwest corner of Myrtle and Huntington Drive to T.P. Heritage Inn of Monrovia, LLC, which wants to build a Marriott TownePlace Suites hotel project on the site. https://goo.gl/pzaHfz

~ Consider paying the Monrovia Historical Society $50,000 ( https://goo.gl/W9UAuA ) for completing step one of Monrovia Legacy Project. (There are two more steps.) The team ...

- Digitized, preserved, and catalogued 500 photos and 3,000 negatives
- Completed 30 hours of live recordings recounting historically significant Monrovia stories
- Recorded City Historian Steve Baker’s Live Oak Cemetery Tour
- Digitized, preserved, and catalogued 130 house histories developed over the years by City Historian Steve Baker
- Digitized, preserved, catalogued, and indexed all of Myron Hotchkiss’ transcriptions of the Monrovia Planet & Messenger and Monrovia News newspaper articles
- Digitized, preserved, and catalogued all available City directories (beginning in the early 1900s)

~ Receive a mid-year budget update by Administrative Services Director Mark Alvarado. He says: "Based on staff’s overall analysis of the General Fund, there are sufficient revenues to cover all budgeted expenditures and the General Fund remains structurally balanced." https://goo.gl/6rEzTW

~ Consider hiring Environmental Construction, Inc., for $1,086,162 to re-landscape the Huntington Drive median with less thirsty plants. https://goo.gl/cHoXLI

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Mooncat

 
Dinner at Mooncat, on the south side of Lime a few doors east of Myrtle. Got the shrimp tempura udon soup for $8.50 and an ice tea for $3. Very good; just right for a rainy night. 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Student Saves Satellite Company Big Bucks

Monrovian Jacob Lovi, who attends high school at Bosco Tech, came up with a way to save Boeing $100,000 per satellite it builds. The company honored him for it at an assembly at his school. https://goo.gl/izShX6

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Stealing Mail; Lexus Driver Steals Leaf Blower; Ex-Boyfriend Rams Her Car; Etc.

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

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 421 service events, resulting in 87 investigations.

Theft of Mail – Suspect Arrested
December 12 at 7:25 a.m., officers responded to the 200 block of W. Evergreen regarding a male suspect seen taking mail from mailboxes. The officers arrived and detained the suspect. The suspect was in possession of numerous pieces of mail from Evergreen and Magnolia. A computer check revealed the suspect also had outstanding warrants for his arrest. The suspect was arrested for the theft of mail and the warrants. The theft of mail investigation was turned over to postal investigators.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
December 12 at 6:53 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 1300 block of S. Magnolia regarding three subjects that were possibly intoxicated. Officers arrived and detained one of the subjects that was too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Petty Theft
December 12 at 7:22 p.m., the victim of a petty theft came into the police station lobby to report his leaf blower had been stolen at around 9:00 a.m. that morning. The victim is a gardener. He was working when he saw a male adult take a leaf blower off his truck and drive away in a newer-model, blue Lexus. The investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
December 12 at 10:57 p.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 700 block of W. Huntington regarding the report of a male adult that appeared intoxicated. The officers located the subject and determined he was too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 13 at 12:34 a.m., an officer on patrol stopped a male and female adult for traffic violations on their bikes. A computer check revealed the male had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested for the warrant.

Residential Burglary
December 13 at 7:01 p.m., a burglary was reported at a residence in the 300 block of E. Palm. The suspect partially pried a screen off a window, but was not successful in entering through the window. The resident discovered jewelry missing. It is unknown how the suspect entered the residence. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
December 13 at 9:12 p.m., officers responded to a residence in the 300 block of N. Encinitas on the report of a burglary. The window in the back door to the home had been smashed and entry was made. There were several miscellaneous items and jewelry taken. The investigation is continuing.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 14 at 3:52 a.m., an officer on patrol stopped a subject on a bike for a vehicle code violation in the 800 block of S. Magnolia. A computer check revealed he had two warrants for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody on the warrants.

Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspects Arrested
December 14 at 4:04 a.m., officers stopped to check out a suspicious vehicle in the 600 block of S. Alta Vista with its dome light on. Two subjects were located inside the vehicle. A consent search revealed that both subjects were in possession of baggies of cocaine. Both were arrested and taken into custody.

Theft of Mail
December 14 at 7:08 a.m., a theft of mail was reported at an apartment complex in the 100 block of N. Mountain. The suspect was in a white, newer-model, compact vehicle with no plates and tinted windows. The suspect broke into the apartment mailboxes. The suspect was described as a male white with a gray shirt, pants, and ball cap. The suspect fled in a vehicle southbound on Mountain towards Foothill. Officers made an area check, but were unable to locate the suspect. The investigation is continuing.

Felony Vandalism
December 14 at 4:25 p.m., officers were dispatched to a residence in the 400 block of Hurstview regarding suspicious circumstances. The victim reported that her ex-boyfriend came to her house and caused a disturbance. The victim has a restraining order against her ex-boyfriend. He went to the location and intentionally rammed her parked vehicle with his vehicle when she refused to let him inside her residence. The suspect then fled the scene in his vehicle. The victim’s vehicle sustained moderate damage. Officers searched the area for the suspect, but were not able to locate him. A charge of felony vandalism will be sought against the suspect. The investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
December 15 at 12:20 a.m., a subject was reported inside a vehicle in the 500 block of Myrtle. The vehicle engine was running and the driver appeared to be unconscious. Officers arrived and contacted the driver, who was passed out. He had parked his vehicle sideways in the parking stalls along Myrtle. The officers could see drug paraphernalia in plain view in the vehicle. A further search of the vehicle revealed two baggies of methamphetamine. The driver was arrested for DUI, possession of drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine. His vehicle was stored.

Monrovia High Student is National Soccer Player of the Year

Ashley Sanchez of Monrovia High School has been named U.S. Soccer's "United States' young female player of the year." https://goo.gl/qc0SXX

- Brad Haugaard

Will Library Add a Coffee Shop? Will Unity Center Buy World Vision Building? Santa Tour; Alvarado Retiring; Carriage Ride; How Monrovia Voted

Track Santa through Monrovia using this link: SantaTour

In his weekly report ( https://goo.gl/3IrUZ5 ), City Manager Oliver Chi reports ...

~ Will the library be adding a coffee shop? That possibility is briefly mentioned in the Library Strategic Plan, which you can see here: https://goo.gl/5y0rL3

~ Foothill Unity Center is considering the purchase of the World Vision property located at 790  W. Chestnut Ave. A community meeting has been scheduled to consider the matter on Tuesday, Dec. 13, at 6:30 p.m. at the World Vision building (800  W. Chestnut Ave.).

~ Administrative Services Director Mark Alvarado will be retiring on Dec. 29 after 24 years of service to Monrovia. The City will host a breakfast to celebrate his retirement on Thursday, Dec. 29, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in the Police Department's EOC Room.

~ Horse drawn carriage rides will be available in Old Town Monrovia starting at Library Park every Thursday and Sunday evening in December.  Sunday 3-6 p.m. Thursday 5-8 p.m.

~ How Monrovia voted.

On the propositions ...


For president ...

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Stealing iPhones at Gunpoint; Caught on Camera; Etc.

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

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Shoplifting / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
December 8 at 4:22 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain on the report of a shoplifter. A male adult subject concealed merchandise on his person and left the store without paying. The male suspect was seen leaving the area in a vehicle. The vehicle description and direction of travel was broadcast to officers. A responding officer located a matching vehicle and conducted an investigative traffic stop. The male adult driver matched the suspect description and was acting very nervous. He quickly admitted to stealing the item from the business and told the officer he had methamphetamine in his vehicle. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Commercial Robbery
December 8 at 7:55 p.m., a business in the 900 block of W. Huntington called police to report a robbery. The suspect entered the business and pointed a silver handgun at the employee. He demanded to go to the back of the store. The suspect took cash and ten iPhones from the store, and then fled. The suspect is described as a dark-skinned male, possibly Indian, wearing dark clothing, a dark colored hoodie and possibly a dark beanie. The investigation is continuing.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
December 9 at 7:48 a.m., two vehicles collided at the intersection of Myrtle and Pomona. Both drivers claimed it was the other person’s fault. Officers located a surveillance camera that recorded the entire incident. The party at fault was identified, informed and received a citation to appear in court.

Residential Burglary
December 9 at 7:22 p.m., police dispatch received notification of multiple alarm activations at a residence in the 200 block of N. Mayflower. Officers arrived and discovered forced entry was made through a rear door. The location was searched with the assistance of a neighboring agency canine unit, but the suspect was not located. The residence had been ransacked.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 10 at 12:41 a.m., officers saw a subject they recognized in the 400 block of E. Huntington that they knew had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. A computer check confirmed he had an outstanding warrant and the suspect was arrested without incident.

Petty Theft / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspects Arrested
December 10 at 2:07 p.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington on the report of a theft. Loss prevention officers observed two male subjects load merchandise into two duffle bags and leave the store without paying. Officers arrived and located the suspects in front of the business. They also located the stolen merchandise and arrested the suspects. The officers located other possible stolen property that is being held for observation, and heroin, which one of the suspects had on his person.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol / Drunk in Public – Suspects Arrested
December 11 at 3:16 a.m., an officer observed a driver commit a vehicle code violation in the 1300 block of S. Myrtle Avenue. He stopped the vehicle and contacted the driver. While speaking to the driver, the officer noted obvious signs of alcohol intoxication. The driver was arrested for DUI, held for a sobering period and later released with a citation to appear in court. Two passengers in the vehicle were also arrested for being drunk in public and were held for a sobering period, as they were too intoxicated to care for their own safety.

Mail Theft
December 11 at 8:49 a.m., a theft of mail incident was reported at an apartment complex in the 1800 block of S. Alta Vista. It appears the suspects had a postal key to open all the apartment mailboxes. All mail was taken. Pieces of mail from Arcadia residents were found in the street. Arcadia Police Department was notified and the investigation is continuing.

A Bit of Rain for Monrovia?

60% chance of rain Thursday and Friday. https://goo.gl/0qMTb8

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia School Board to Honor Winning Girls' Volleyball, Football, Wild Rose School

At its next meeting, the Monrovia School Board will, among other things ...

~ Congratulate the Monrovia High School Girls Volleyball team on becoming Rio Hondo League champions and CIF Southern Section quarter-finalists; both accomplishments are firsts in Monrovia High School history.

~ Congratulate the Monrovia High School Varsity Football team on winning the 2016-17 Rio Hondo League championship.

~ Honor Ray Alarcon & Wild Rose Elementary School on receiving a Golden Bell for their "Team Bruin" campus cleanup, climate and leadership program for the 2016-17 school year.

If you want to see the agenda, it is here, but I warn you, it is a huge 258-page PDF file that took me more than three minutes to download.

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at London Gastropub


Dinner last night at London Gastropub, on the west side of Myrtle just south of Lime. It was really hopping. Got the chicken sandwich, straightforwardly called "Chicken Sandwich" on the menu for $11 and a beer for $7.  Great sandwich!

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: Burglar Asks for Bathroom; Trying to Steal an Awful Lot of Baby Formula; Rented Truck and Kept It; Woman With Knife; Etc.

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

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Petty Theft
December 5 at 10:07 a.m., officers responded to the report of a theft in the 1000 block of Royal Oaks. The victim’s gardening blower was on the ground next to his truck when it was stolen.

Driving Under the Influence / Traffic Collision
December 5 at 11:56 a.m., officers responded to a traffic collision in the 400 block of W. Huntington. A male subject struck a parked car. The driver was complaining of pain and was taken to the hospital.

Driving Under the Influence – Driver Arrested
December 5 at 1:50 p.m., officers on patrol stopped the driver of a vehicle in the 800 block of Royal Oaks for a vehicle code violation. Upon speaking to the driver, the officer noticed symptoms of alcohol intoxication. The female driver was arrested.

Vehicle Burglary
December 6 at 9:21 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 200 block of Los Angeles. The victim said someone broke into his vehicle between midnight and 8 a.m. and stole his stereo. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
December 6 at 3:17 p.m., an officer responded to a report of a vehicle burglary in the 800 block of W. Duarte. The victim’s vehicle was parked in his carport. The victim’s yellow cordless Cobalt drill, coins, and checks in the victim's name were stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Mail Theft
December 6 at 4:52 p.m., a resident in the 900 block of Monterey called the police to report a theft. The caller said he heard a banging noise near the mail boxes. When he went outside to investigate, he saw the mail boxes were broken into and ransacked. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
December 6 at 6:32 p.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 100 block of Peppertree. The resident stated he had left his garage door open expecting his wife to be home soon. He heard a noise in his garage and confronted a male adult standing inside. The subject asked where his bathroom was and entered the victim’s residence. The victim was scared and stayed in the garage until he heard the suspect leave. It was determined the suspect stole a bag of items inside the house before exiting out the front door. The loss is unknown and the investigation is ongoing.

Vehicle Burglary
December 6 at 9:44 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 800 block of W. Duarte. The victim reported someone entered his locked vehicle during the night and stole some items from his vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglaries
December 7 at 3:13 a.m., two vehicle burglaries were reported in the 700 block of W. Huntington. The two vehicles that were owned by the same family were broken into during the night. The windows were smashed on both vehicles and property was stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto Recovery – Suspect Arrested
December 7 at 8:18 a.m., an officer on patrol was in the 2000 block of Myrtle when he noticed a vehicle and a computer check revealed it was a stolen vehicle. The officers coordinated units for a high risk stop. The vehicle was stopped and further investigation revealed the driver rented the truck in July and never returned it. The driver was arrested for grand theft auto and a $25,000 warrant.

Mental Evaluation
December 7 at 8:36 a.m., an officer responded to the Library Park regarding a female suspect that charged another female with a knife. The two females quickly separated. The suspect with the knife began showering in the library fountain. Further investigation revealed both females are mentally ill and homeless. The female with the knife started making threats to the other and charged her with the knife. While being detained by officers, the subject was talking to herself and not making any sense. She was taken for a 72 hour psychiatric evaluation hold

Grand Theft
December 7 at 2:25 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 100 block of W. Foothill regarding a theft. Two subjects described as male blacks in their 20’s entered the business and attempted to take $ 1,000 worth of baby formula. The suspects dropped the formula as they were attempting to flee. The suspects’ vehicle is described as a black 2015 Toyota with a third suspect driver. The suspects were not located. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
December 7 at 2:54 p.m., officers responded to the 1300 block of S. Mayflower regarding a vehicle burglary. The victim walked out to her vehicle and saw there was a male Hispanic suspect sitting inside it. The suspect fled on his skateboard. An officer saw a subject that matched the description of the suspect enter a store and when officers confronted this subject, he was in possession of stolen items from the store. Further investigation revealed the subject was not the same suspect that was in the victim’s vehicle. The subject was arrested for the petty theft.

Residential Burglary
December 7 at 2:58 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 700 block of Montana regarding a residential burglary. The victim said $300 worth of presents were taken from the garage. The garage was left unlocked. When the victim returned home, the garage was open and gifts were missing. The investigation is continuing.

Want to Run for a Monrovia Office? Attend This Meeting

In preparation for the 2017 General Municipal Election, the Monrovia City Clerk's Office will host a pre-nomination candidate information meeting on Monday, Dec. 12 at 6 p.m., at the Monrovia Public Library.

This meeting will offer valuable insight on how to run for one of the five available elected positions. Positions open for the upcoming Monrovia General Municipal Election are: Mayor (2 years), two City Council seats (4 years), City Clerk (4 years), and City Treasurer (4 years).

Information will include an overview of forms, campaign reporting requirements, and important timelines. The period to file nomination papers opens on Dec. 19, and ends Jan. 13, 2017. The Municipal Election is April 11, 2017.

The meeting is open to anyone interested in running for local government in any city or those who simply want to learn more about the election process. All Monrovia and non-Monrovia residents are welcome to attend.

The meeting will be: Monday, Dec. 12, 6 p.m., Monrovia Public Library - Library Community Room, 321 S. Myrtle Avenue

To attend the Candidate Information meeting, please RSVP to the City Clerk's Office at 932-5599.

Source: Monrovia press release

- Brad Haugaard

AeroVironment Stock Drops Following Earnings Report


Stock in Monrovia's drone-maker, AeroVironment, dropped 5.86 percent today following a poor earnings report. Because drone sales declined 23 percent for the quarter. https://goo.gl/j3pz1O

- Brad Haugaard

AeroVironment Drones Could Help Water Management for Almond Growers

Monrovia-based drone maker, AeroVironment, has begun a year-long study with California State Fresno to research how imagery and analytics from drone systems could detect water stress levels in almond trees and help producers make better water management decisions. https://goo.gl/QnRLMw

- Brad Haugaard

Fourth Dimension Building Redesign Planned; Road Sign Honoring Bartlett; Exchange Christmas Lights; Library Activities


In his weekly report, City Manager Oliver Chi reports ...

~ The former Fourth Dimension building on Myrtle will be turned into 3,000 square feet of retail/restaurant space in the front and the remaining 24,000 square feet will be for administrative / professional office space. The Historic Preservation Commission approved a proposed facade remodel that will keep much of the mid-century aesthetic and remove design elements that were added in the 1980's.

~ The city has designed a commemorative sign to honor former Mayor Bob Bartlett. (See above.) It will be installed on Royal Oaks Drive between California and Shamrock avenues.

~ Exchange your old Christmas lights for new LED strands for free at the Friday Night Family Street Fair on Dec. 9, from 6 to 8 p.m.  To be eligible you must: be a residential Southern California Edison customer, bring a copy of your SCE bill, present valid id. You can exchange up to two strands of working, incandescent lights per household.  The strands must be 50 lights or more and will be offered while supplies last.

~ Lots going on at the Library, from Creative Coloring for Adults to Candy Cane hunts for children. Here's the month's activities: https://goo.gl/Mxsx6S

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Inhospitable Welcome; Stolen Prius Recovered; Shoplifting; Catalytic Converter Thefts; Man Angry at Bank for Bad Check; Hit And Run

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 1-4. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Petty Theft
December 1 at 10:00 a.m., a petty theft was reported at a business in the 600 block of S. Myrtle. A commercial grade push-cart was taken from the rear of the business. Surveillance footage shows the theft occurred on November 28, 2016. The male suspect was seen riding a bicycle while pushing the cart away from the business. The investigation is still continuing.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon
December 1 at 4:55 p.m., an officer responded to the report of an assault in the area of Cherry and Primrose. The victims drove into the alley and one of them exited the vehicle. The victims were confronted by five male subjects, the subjects yelled "This is Monrovia" and threw two bricks towards the victims and their vehicle. The victims got back in the vehicle and reversed out of the alley in attempts to get away while the subjects continued running towards them. The incident is being investigated.

Vehicle Burglary / Grand Theft Auto Recovery
December 1 at 9:03 p.m., officers were dispatched on the report of a vehicle burglary in the 600 block of W. Foothill. The victim walked out of her office to the back parking lot and found a suspect inside her vehicle. The victim yelled at the suspect who fled on foot. When officers arrived they located a 1994 Toyota Prius with the engine running parked next to the victim’s vehicle. The investigation revealed the Toyota was a reported stolen vehicle from La Puente. The stolen vehicle was recovered and the investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
December 2 at 11:45 a.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 1500 block of Encino. The victim’s catalytic converter was stolen from the victim’s vehicle the night before.

Grand Theft Auto
December 2 at 12:30 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 300 block of Genoa on the report of a stolen vehicle. A package was taken from the front porch of the residence several days ago and a key to the stolen vehicle was inside the package. The victim said he parked and secured his vehicle in front of the location the night before. The victim believes the subject(s) returned with the stolen key. The investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting
December 2 at 2:08 p.m., dispatch received a call from a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington Dr. regarding a theft that had just occurred. The subject was seen taking items without paying. The suspect was detained outside the business and held until officers arrived. The suspect was identified and cited.

Shoplifting
December 2 at 3:03 p.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington Dr. regarding a theft. A male subject left the store without paying for merchandise. The store employees called the police and provided a description of the subject. The officers located a subject matching that description. The suspect was detained and cited.

Grand Theft
December 2 at 4:20 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of E. Lemon called police to report that her catalytic converter was stolen from her vehicle while it was parked in front of her residence. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
December 2 at 11:49 a.m. an officer responded to a report of a residential burglary in the 1000 block of Orange. The victim left at 7:30 a.m. and upon her return, she found her home had been ransacked. The investigation revealed forced entry was made through a rear window where the suspect(s) stole jewelry and other miscellaneous property. Suspect(s) exited through the front door. The investigation is continuing. Driving Under the Influence – Suspect arrested December 2 at 7:24 p.m., dispatch received a call regarding the driver of a vehicle driving erratically in the 600 block of S. Myrtle. Officers located the vehicle and made a traffic stop for a vehicle code violation. The investigation revealed the driver was too intoxicated to drive a motor vehicle. The suspect was arrested.

Vandalism
December 3 at 9:50 a.m., an officer was dispatched on the report of a vandalism in the 400 block of S. Alta Vista Dr. The caller reported that the large front bay window to her residence had been shattered sometime during the night before. A piece of a brick was located on the porch below the shattered window.

Vandalism
December 3 at 10:51 a.m., a vandalism was reported in the 300 block of E. Olive. The victim parked her vehicle in front of her residence the evening before and upon her return she discovered the side window to her vehicle had been shattered. Nothing was missing from the vehicle.

Vandalism
December 3 at 11:49 a.m., a caller reported a vandalism to her vehicle in the 400 block of Hurstview. The victim said she parked her vehicle in front of her residence the night before and when she returned she found a side window had been shattered. She found a brick wrapped in Christmas paper inside her vehicle. There were three additional bricks wrapped in Christmas paper laying on the ground outside her vehicle.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 3 at 3:00 p.m., officers responded to a report of a suspicious person inside the bank in the 100 block of W. Foothill. Officers contacted the person in question and the subject explained he had a check and the bank would not honor it. The check appeared fraudulent and the officers told the subject he might be the victim of fraud. The subject was upset that the bank would not cash the check but agreed to leave and look into the possibility that the check might be a fraud. A few minutes after all parties left, the bank called the police to report the subject was back and yelling at employees. Officers returned to the location and arrested the subject on two small warrants.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
December 4 at 7:23 p.m., dispatch received a call regarding a hit & run traffic collision in the area of California and Colorado. The suspect’s vehicle rear-ended a vehicle that was stopped at a stop sign and fled the scene. The occupants in the vehicle that was rear-ended were not injured. An extensive search was conducted for the suspect vehicle with negative results. The investigation is continuing.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
December 4 at 10:31 p.m., a caller reported a hit & run traffic collision in the 100 block of S. Fifth. The caller stated he was driving north on Fifth approaching the intersection of Foothill. The suspect’s vehicle was traveling behind him and suddenly passed him on the left. When the suspect vehicle was passing the victim's vehicle, he clipped the driver's side rear fender. The suspect vehicle fled the scene. The victim was not injured. An extensive search was conducted for the suspect vehicle with negative results. The investigation is continuing.

Monrovia Senator Introduces Three Bills; Assemblyman Introduces One

Newly elected State Senator, Anthony Portantino, who represents Monrovia, has introduced Senate Bill 25, which aims to create a K-14 education model in place of separate K-12 and post-secondary education models. He also introduced SB 23 to extend funding for California's Umbilical Cord Blood Collection Program (the blood is used in cancer treatments), and SB 24, which would update the Political Reform Act to create "more accurate financial disclosure requirements for elected representatives."

Also, Assemblymember Chris Holden, who represents Monrovia in the State Assembly, introduced AB 17 to enact the Transit Pass Program to assist with student public ridership.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Couple Die in Mobile Home Fire

A Monrovia man and woman died in a mobile home fire on South Mountain Saturday morning. https://goo.gl/OkW6fg

- Brad Haugaard

Trust Offers Monrovia 157 Acres of Hillside Land - For Free

Purple areas are the properties the city would acquire.

The City of Monrovia is being offered what is essentially a gift of 157.31 acres of open space to add to its 1,416-acre Hillside Wilderness Preserve. The Trust for Public Land would purchase the land from a private owner and turn it over to the city at no cost to Monrovia. The city council will consider the deal at the next council meeting, on Tuesday, Dec. 6. https://goo.gl/iFiYmn

Comment: It appears from this map that the land is well up the mountainside from the newly-opened trail.

- Brad Haugaard

Blindness Doesn't Slow Monrovia Teen - He's Performing in 'Annie'

Blind Monrovia teen Mason Fessenden to perform in local production of Annie. "He just gets up and goes," his mother said. https://goo.gl/BrgPxJ

- Brad Haugaard

Free Pet Adoption on Dec. 8

On Thursday, Dec. 8, Pasadena Humane Society, which serves Monrovia, joins forces with KTLA 5 for Take 5 to Care, a day-long free pet adoption event and donation drive aimed at finding furry friends forever homes for the holidays.

During the event, the adoption fee will be waived for all available dogs, cats, rabbits and other critters. The adoption includes the spay/neuter surgery, a microchip and up-to-date vaccines. Many pets are available to go to their new homes the same day as adoption, while others may need to stay a few extra days at the shelter. After adopting, visitors can head over to the shelter's retail store to pick up food and other supplies for their adopted pet.

The Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA is located at 361 S. Raymond Avenue in Pasadena, California. Adoption hours are from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Regular adoption policies and screening apply.

Website: http://pasadenahumane.org/

Source: Press release

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Casa Jimenez

 
Dinner last night at Casa Jimenez, on Mountain in the Home Depot center. I got the Burritto de Carne Deshebrada (shredded beef) for $9.95 and a beer for $3.95. Good and quite filling. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Four Christmas Eve Services Scheduled at Fellowship Monrovia


Fellowship Monrovia's Christmas theme is that Christmas is really "about home, a home for anyone and everyone." The church invites the community to participate in one of its four Christmas Eve services "for a fun and special time where you, your family, and friends will experience diverse Christmas traditions and glimpses of home expressed through music, stories, and more."

December 24 at 2, 4, 6, and 9 p.m.
Monrovia High School Performing Arts Center
845 W. Colorado Blvd. Monrovia, CA 91016

Childcare will be provided at the 2, 4, and 6 p.m. services for children 4 and younger. To register for childcare and to learn more about the service, go to www.fellowship.christmas.

Fellowship Monrovia is a Gospel-centered, multiethnic, inter-generational church.

Source: Press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Christmas Parade

 
Pictures from the a Monrovia Christmas parade. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Christmas Tree Lit

 

The Munrovia Christmas tree has been lit! It's at the southeast corner of Library Park, at Lime and Myrtle.

- Bread Haugaard 

Santa's Monrovia Touring Schedule

This year, Monrovia will continue our tradition of celebrating the Christmas season by touring Santa Claus around city streets on top of a fire engine. Escorted by a police car and a decorated public works sleigh, Santa will provide candy canes to the public. City employees will again volunteer their time to help make the program fun and successful.

Last year’s event was a great success! This year’s Santa Tour will be another exciting and fun time for members of our community when they see Santa visiting their neighborhoods. Everyone is encouraged to come out and wave to Santa.

  • Monday, December 12, 2016 – will tour streets south of Huntington, west of Myrtle to Fifth, north of southern city boundaries.
  • Tuesday, December 13, 2016 – will tour city streets east of Myrtle, north of Foothill.
  • Wednesday, December 14, 2016 – will tour city streets west of Myrtle, north of Foothill
  • Thursday, December 15, 2016 – will tour city streets east of Myrtle, south of Foothill, north of Duarte Road, west of east city boundaries.
  • Friday, December 16, 2016 – will tour city streets west of Myrtle, south of Foothill, north of Huntington to Mayflower, between Myrtle and Fifth.


Assembly Time: 5:00 p.m. assembly at the City Hall parking lot, 415 S. Ivy, Monrovia, CA 91016

Tour Hours: 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

The police car will be driven by police officers who volunteer their time. The police car will lead the procession using its red lights and siren. Christmas carols will be played over the police car’s P.A. system.

The fire engine will be driven by firefighters who volunteer their time. The fire engine will follow the police car. Santa will ride on top of the fire engine with spotlights shining on him as he wishes everyone a merry Christmas. The fire engine will be decorated with hundreds of Christmas lights.

The public works truck will be driven by public works employees who volunteer their time. Our reindeer sleigh, bright with over 1500 Christmas lights, will play Christmas carols. Community members are welcome to ride with city employees and their families on back of the truck and trailer during the tour. Space is limited and participation is first come first served. Parents are reminded that children must be accompanied by an adult.

Source: Monrovia Police press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Night Burglary; Man With a Gun; Vehicle Thefts; Burglaries; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for November 28-30. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Felon With a Firearm / Resisting and Delaying a Peace Officer
November 28 at 9:01 a.m., officers were on patrol in the area of Myrtle and Pomona when they stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation that was occupied by a male and female subject. As the vehicle came to a stop, the male subject ran from the vehicle. One of the officers chased after the suspect on foot. The suspect was carrying a black bag, which he discarded as he was running. He ran south and jumped a wall into an industrial yard. Containment of the area was set up with assistance from neighboring agencies and the Foothill Air Support Team helicopter, but the suspect was not found. The bag discarded by the suspect was found to contain a loaded gun. Officers will seek a warrant for the suspect's arrest and the investigation is continuing.

Theft From a Vehicle
November 28 at 9:16 a.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 800 block of Oakdale. The victim called police to report that cash and gift cards were stolen from the center console sometime during the night. The vehicle had been left unlocked in the driveway. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
November 28 at 6:57 p.m., officers responded to a burglary alarm call at a residence in the 300 block of Terrace View. The resident advised that the security system showed there was motion inside the house. Officers arrived and contained the location. The Foothill Air Support Team helicopter and a canine unit from a neighboring agency arrived to assist. The home was searched, but no suspects were found inside. A break-in was confirmed. The investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft
November 28 at 6:58 p.m., the manager of a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington called police to report a petty theft that had just occurred. A male adult came into the store and selected miscellaneous merchandise. The suspect attempted to pay with a credit card, which was declined. He then exited the store with the merchandise without paying. He entered a black vehicle and fled the area.

Vehicle Tampering
November 29 at 1:45 a.m., the victim of a vehicle tampering called police to report that someone had entered his unlocked vehicle and went through his glove compartment. The incident occurred in the 100 block of E. Scenic. It appears that nothing was stolen.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Warrant – Suspects Arrested
November 29 at 2:06 a.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 200 block of W. Huntington regarding several disturbing subjects that would not leave the location. After investigation, one female adult was arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance and a male adult for possession of methamphetamine and a no-bail warrant.

Grand Theft From a Vehicle
November 29 at 8:23 a.m., officers responded to a residence in the 400 block of N. Ivy regarding a vehicle burglary that had just occurred. The suspects took gardening tools from the gardener's truck and fled south towards Foothill in a vehicle. Officers responded to the area, but were not able to locate the suspect vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
November 29 at 9:19 p.m., a grand theft auto was reported in the 200 block of W. Colorado. The victim reported his red, 2004 Volkswagen Touareg had been stolen from the street near his residence. The investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft / Resisting and Delaying a Peace Officer / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
November 30 at 5:37 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of N. Myrtle called police to report a male adult taking items from his neighbor’s car. When the suspect saw the neighbor, he fled on foot. An officer arrived, and after a short foot pursuit, he detained the suspect. The suspect was arrested for petty theft and delaying and resisting arrest. The suspect was also found to be in possession of a baggie of methamphetamine, which was added to his charges.

Contributing Delinquency / Curfew Violation – Suspects Arrested
December 1 at 12:11 a.m., a burglary alarm was activated at a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington. Officers arrived and detained two suspects, a male adult and male juvenile. The adult was arrested for contributing to the delinquency of a minor and the juvenile was arrested for curfew.

Hot Prowl Residential Burglary
December 1 at 12:23 a.m., police responded to a hot prowl burglary in progress in the 500 block of Hacienda. A male and female resident were awoken by two male subjects with flashlights that had broken into their house. When the male victim yelled at the suspects, they exited a window and fled in an unknown direction. An area search was conducted, but the suspects were not located. It appears the suspects thought no one was home, since there were no cars in the driveway. There was no loss reported at the time of the incident. The investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary
December 1 at 3:53 a.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 200 block of W. Foothill regarding a burglary alarm activation. When they arrived, there was glass breakage on the west side doors, but no one was found inside. It appears the suspects attempted to pry open the rear door of the business, but failed. They then smashed the glass to one of the doors to gain entry. The suspects entered the office and attempted to pry the safe away from the wall, but did not succeed. The investigation is continuing.

Aldi, TJ Maxx, Homegoods Will Likely Open at Old Albertson's Center; Worley Parsons Consolidates to Monrovia; Etc.

In his weekly report ( https://goo.gl/jZWx5D ), City Manager Oliver Chi reports (among other things) that ...

~ Aldi Supermarket and TJ Maxx / Homegoods are tentatively set to locate in the former Albertson's Shopping Center. The Development Review Committee formally approved a facade remodel for the shopping center, which is being rebranded and renamed to be called, "Monrovia Landing." The Michael's store will move over next to O'Reilly Auto Parts.

~ Worley Parsons, the international engineering firm, will close its Arcadia facilities and move everybody to its Monrovia offices at 181 West Huntington. This means 300-400 more people who will work, dine, and shop while in town.

~ Starting Dec. 5, roadwork here:
Cherry Avenue - from Alta Vista to Myrtle
Chestnut Avenue - from Monterey to Myrtle
Cypress Avenue - from Alta Vista to Myrtle
Highway Esplanade - from Huntington to Chestnut
King Street - from Monterey to Mayflower
Maple Avenue - from Mayflower to Primrose
Montana Street - from Magnolia to Myrtle
Olive Avenue - from Mayflower to the western end of the cul-de-sac
Primrose Avenue - from Huntington to Central
Walnut Avenue - from Mayflower to Myrtle

~ This Friday, Dec. 2, from 6 to 8 p.m., as part of the street fair, there will be free family portraits at Charlie's House in Old Town (430  S. Myrtle Ave.).

- Brad Haugaard

Walking Tour Of Old Monrovia

Monrovia Historic Preservation Group will conduct a walking tour of downtown Monrovia on Saturday, Dec. 3, at 10 a.m. The tour lasts about two hours, and participants will walk eight blocks. $5 per person. Reservations not necessary, just meet at the SE corner of Palm and Myrtle Avenues.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Craigslist Carjacking; Fire at Apartment Complex; Tossing Firearms; Lost in the Mountains; Screwdriver Burglar; Drunk in Public; Explosives Warrant; Etc.

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

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Recovered Stolen Vehicle
November 21 at 11:02 a.m., an officer was conducting a traffic stop in the 100 block of W. Cypress. After clearing the stop, he noticed a parked vehicle partially blocking traffic. He ran a computer check of the license plate, which revealed the vehicle had been reported stolen. The vehicle was recovered.

Residential Burglary
November 21 at 12:28 p.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 100 block of N. Alta Vista. An officer was dispatched to the location. The victim had been away from the home for a short time, and when they returned, they found the inside of their home had been ransacked and items were missing. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
November 21 at 1:09 p.m., officers responded to an apartment complex in the 1000 block of E. Huntington regarding a burglary in progress. A resident heard glass break outside his front door. He walked outside and saw a male suspect with a screwdriver, and then observed that his neighbor’s front window was broken. The suspect attempted to run, but dropped the screwdriver. The suspect stopped, picked up the screwdriver and then threatened the witness with the screwdriver. He then fled north through the complex. The suspect was described as a tall, thin male Black, wearing all white clothing and a backwards baseball cap. He had tattoos on his upper right forearm. An extensive search was conducted with assistance from local agencies and the Foothill Air Support Team helicopter, but the suspect was not located. The investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspects Arrested
November 21 at 7:29 p.m., officers were dispatched on the report of two intoxicated subjects in a business parking lot in the 500 block of Duarte Road. The two subjects were entering a vehicle. The officers detained the subjects and determined they were extremely intoxicated and unable to care for themselves. The subjects were arrested for being drunk in public. They were taken into custody and held for a sobering period. Their vehicle was stored.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspects Arrested
November 21 at 10:51 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 600 block of W. Huntington regarding two female adults that were intoxicated and trying to leave in a vehicle. Witnesses told the officers that one of the females had entered the vehicle and had driven it closer to the front doors so her friend could get in the vehicle. After investigation, one suspect was arrested for driving under the influence and the other for being drunk in public. Both subjects were held for a sobering period. The vehicle was stored.

Vehicle Burglary
November 22 at 1:00 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the 500 block of E. Walnut regarding a vehicle burglary. The victim parked and locked the vehicle on the street. An unknown suspect forced open the rear tool crib on the truck bed and stole roofing tools. The investigation is continuing.

Warrant – Suspects Arrested
November 22 at 2:29 p.m., officers were extra patrolling a hotel in the 700 block of W. Huntington when they saw a known gang member and his girlfriend. A computer check revealed the male subject had a traffic warrant out of El Monte and the female had an explosives warrant out of San Bernardino. The female subject was in possession of postal arrow keys for mailboxes, checks, identification cards and fraudulent credit cards. Both suspects were arrested and turned over to federal postal investigators.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
November 22 at 11:52 p.m., an officer contacted a male adult subject camping at a business in the 100 block of E. Maple. A computer check of the subject revealed a warrant for his arrest. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence / Traffic Collision / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
November 24 at 1:48 a.m., a single vehicle traffic collision was reported at Mountain and Evergreen by Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputies, who were on scene. A vehicle had crashed into a traffic signal. Monrovia officers responded and conducted an investigation. It was determined that the driver was under the influence of alcohol and there was an outstanding warrant for the driver's arrest for a previous DUI. He was arrested without incident.

Structure Fire
November 24 at 2:28 a.m., dispatch received calls regarding a structure fire at an apartment complex in the 100 block of N. Canyon. Officers arrived and found an adult male still inside the location, attempting to fight the fire. The subject refused to leave and had suffered severe burns. Officers were able to get him out of the home, but the subject had to be restrained to keep him from going back into the building. He was taken to a hospital with serious burn injuries. Two additional families were displaced from their units, as well. The American Red Cross responded to assist the residents.

Commercial Burglary
November 24 at 2:35 a.m., an alarm activation was reported at a business in the 900 block of W. Huntington. A burglary was confirmed. The suspect smashed a front door window to gain entry to the location. The investigation is continuing.

Hit and Run Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
November 24 at 1:08 p.m., a witness saw a vehicle collide into a parked vehicle in the 100 block of W. Lemon Avenue. The driver of the vehicle continued driving east and then south on Primrose. Officers responded and conducted an area search. The vehicle was located in an alley in the 100 block of W. Lemon. The driver was also located. The vehicle was towed and the driver received a citation to appear in court on the hit and run charges.

Vehicle Burglary
November 24 at 9:45 a.m., officers responded to the report of a vehicle burglary in the 400 block of W. Lemon. The victim parked his vehicle in front of the location the evening before and secured the vehicle. He returned in the morning and saw one of the windows to his vehicle was shattered. Items were missing from the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Firearm Violation – Suspect Arrested
November 25 at 10:16 p.m., an officer observed a vehicle run a stop sign at Mayflower and Evergreen. He attempted to stop the vehicle in the area of Fano and Alamitas. As the vehicle made a left turn onto Alamitas, a passenger tossed an item from the open window into the front yard of a residence. The vehicle came to a stop and two passengers fled the vehicle on foot. The driver was detained and the investigation revealed a loaded firearm behind the driver’s seat. The item tossed out of the window was found to be an additional loaded firearm. The suspect was arrested for the firearm violation. An extensive search was conducted for the passengers of the vehicle, but they were not located. The driver was found to be a convicted felon. He was arrested and held pending his court date. The investigation is continuing.

Missing Person
November 25 at 11:26 p.m., a female subject called police to report her husband and seven-year-old son were lost on a trail above Monrovia. She said her husband and son left at 12:00 p.m. to take a mountain bike ride from Mount Baldy into Monrovia on one of the mountain trails. She became concerned after several hours when they did not return. She received a text message at 9:50 p.m. from her husband, stating the ride was much longer than anticipated and he was attempting to locate the trail exit into Monrovia. Police made contact with the subject and by using his flashlight, the Foothill Air Support Team helicopter was able to locate the victims on the top of the Monrovia ridge and they gave police a GPS location. The Los Angeles County Search and Rescue unit was requested and they responded and safely rescued the victims.

Commercial Burglary
November 26 at 3:36 a.m., the Monrovia Fire Department responded to a smoke detector activation at a business in the 900 block of W. Huntington. When they arrived, they found the glass entry door had been smashed. Officers responded, searched the interior and determined a burglary had occurred. The suspects forced entry into the business by smashing the front door and made their way to a back office, where the suspects smashed open a safe and stole cash. The investigation is continuing.

Felony Hit & Run Traffic Collision
November 26 at 7:13 p.m., dispatch received a call reporting a hit and run traffic collision in the area of Myrtle and Colorado. A vehicle hit a pedestrian who was walking in the crosswalk and fled the scene. Monrovia paramedics arrived on scene and provided medical treatment for the pedestrian. The pedestrian complained of pain to her left shoulder and right hip, and was taken to a local hospital for her injuries. An extensive search was conducted for the suspect vehicle, but it was not located. The investigation is continuing.

Carjacking / Robbery
November 27 at 3:25 p.m., a carjacking/robbery was reported in the area of Royal Oaks and Bradbury. The victim met with the suspect, a male white adult, to sell a computer tablet he had listed on Craigslist. The victim did not want to meet the buyer at his residence, so they agreed to meet at Royal Oaks and Bradbury. The victim requested the buyer email him a photo of himself so he would know who to look for and the buyer sent one.

The victim met the suspect at the location and they got into the victim’s vehicle to complete the sale of the tablet. While in the vehicle, the suspect sprayed the victim in the face with pepper spray. The suspect grabbed the victim and attempted to keep him inside the vehicle, but the victim managed to get out of the car. The suspect then climbed into the driver’s seat and drove off in the victim’s car, a white, 2014 Ford Mustang. The vehicle the suspect arrived in, a yellow Ford Focus, was driven off at the same time. The victim then walked back to his residence and phoned police. Officers arrived and conducted an area search, but the suspect was not located. The victim's vehicle was entered into the law enforcement stolen vehicle database. The photo the victim received was of the suspect who committed the crime. The investigation is continuing.

Sow House Becomes Craft Hill


The Sow House restaurant (at the corner of Myrtle and Lime) has changed its name to Craft Hill and changed its menu, which you can see here: https://goo.gl/QfqCT7

Comment: Probably a good thing. It wasn't clear whether it was "sow" as in "sow seeds" or "sow" as in "oink."

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Fire Fighters Collect Toys

 
Monrovia fire fighters are in front of the Krikorian theater on Myrtle today collecting toys for the Spark of Love toy drive, which collects Christmas toys for needy children and teens. 

- Brad Haugaard 

'Annie' at Monrovia Church Dec. 8-11


A stage production of "Annie," by Monrovia's Center Stage, will be held at the International Full Gospel Fellowship church (at the corner of Palm and Primrose) on Thursday through Sunday, Dec. 8, 9, 10, and 11. Showtimes and tickets: https://goo.gl/rDa1UK

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Las Marias

 
Had lunch today at Las Marias, a little restaurant in the 7-Eleven strip mall on Foothill. I got two carnitas tacos and a regular size iced tea for $9.24, including tax. Very fresh and tasty and the staff was friendly.

- Brad Haugaard 

Ceramic Sale to Benefit Monrovia Adult School


Monrovia Adult School's Wheelhouse Ceramics is having its holiday sale on Friday, Dec. 2, from 6-9 p.m., and on Saturday, Dec. 3, from 10 a.m,-4 p.m. at 1833 Santa Fe Place (behind AAMCO and Troy's Burgers). Cash or check only. Wheelhouse Ceremics is a non-profit group and proceeds help fund the studio.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police Safety Tips Seminar

The Monrovia Police Department will host a holiday safety tips event titled, "Don't Let the Grinch Ruin Christmas" on Thursday, Dec. 8, from 7 to 8 p.m., in the Library Community Room.

This past year, the City of Monrovia has seen an approximate 25 percent increase in crime activity, a situation which law enforcement personnel have attributed to new laws that have been adopted in California.  Those laws include AB 109 and Proposition 47, as well as the recently approved Proposition 57, which will result in an estimated 10,000 incarcerated individuals who will be released from prison during the next few months.

With the increase in crime activities, safety is a high priority for all residents.  Join us as representatives from the Monrovia Police Department address public safety issues, answer questions and concerns, and provide information on ways to stay safe during this holiday season.  

For more information about this event, please contact the Monrovia Police Department at 256-8000.

Source: Monrovia Police Department press release

- Brad Haugaard

Sunny Thanksgiving; Rainy Saturday?

It should be sunny for Thanksgiving and Friday, but then hopefully some rain. 80% chance on Saturday and 40% chance on Sunday. https://goo.gl/0qMTb8

- Brad Haugaard

Crime Up 20% in Monrovia; 10% Off Emergency Supplies; Signs and Seating on Myrtle; Christmas Light Swap; For Vets in Hospitals

In his weekly report ( https://goo.gl/qeE0y1 ), City Manager Oliver Chi reports that ...

~ Crime is up about 20 percent in Monrovia compared to last year, so the police department will hold a safety seminar Thursday, Dec. 8, from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Library. The department says part of the problem is new laws (AB 109 and Proposition 47). Also, newly approved Prop 57 means "an additional 10,000 incarcerated individuals will be released from prison during the next few months, which could further negatively impact crime rates."

~ Monrovia has worked a deal with a couple online emergency-supply stores to help Monrovians with emergency preparations. You can get 10% off on emergency preparedness supplies at Super Gen Products ( http://www.supergenproducts.com - enter promo code MONROVIA at checkout), and at SOS Survival Products ( http://www.sosproducts.com - enter promo code HC02591M at checkout).

~ The city is concerned about outdoor displays, signs, banners, and restaurant seating in Old Town, and will be "working with businesses to ensure that all necessary City reviews and permits have been satisfied."

~ The city and Metro believe they can work out an arrangement by February or March for non-transit parking at the Monrovia Gold Line station during low-traffic times.

~ You can swap incandescent Christmas light strings for new LED light strings on Dec. 9, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Friday Night Family Street Fair. You must be a SCE customer (bring a bill), with valid ID. The strands you turn in must have at least 50 lights. While supplies last.

~ The Library's Veterans Resource Center is collecting new items for veterans in hospitals: White Socks for both men and women; adult coloring books; colored pencils; crayons; markers; board and card games for adults. A donation box is in the library lobby. For information contact Mabel Cross at 256-9294, or mcross@ci.monrovia.ca.us.



Monrovian Collects 1,009 Christmas Gifts for Children Around the World



Sixteen year old Monrovian, Grayson Wade, has been supporting Samaritan's Purse Operation Christmas Child for seven years since being introduced to it as a Cub Scout.  Monday he delivered 1,009 shoebox gifts to the relay center in Arcadia.  From there the shoeboxes are transferred to a collection center in Orange County.  Once processed, they will ship all over the world to children in need.

Grayson's shoeboxes contain school supplies, hygiene items, toys, puzzles, art supplies, games, stuffed animals, musical instruments, clothing, etc.  In addition to the items he places in the shoeboxes, he includes $7 per box for shipping costs, so he needed to raise a substantial amount of money.  Grayson launched an aggressive door to door campaign to raise money for the boxes he packed at home.  Monrovians not only donated money, but also items for sewing kits, toys, stuffed animals, games, as well as packed shoeboxes.  He appealed to Monrovia Rotary Club and Monrovia Kiwanis Club.  Local stores, A Snail's Pace, Payless and Marshall's, saved empty shoeboxes for Grayson.  Also supporting his efforts were kids from scout troops and student clubs from several local high schools, including his own, Bosco Tech.

- Brad Haugaard

Auditions Set in December for 'Curtains' Play

Auditions for Curtains, a JFed Players Community Theatre production, will be held in mid-December with performances scheduled for mid-March. Singers, dancers, actors needed - principally young adult and up. Auditions at 7 p.m. on Sunday-Tuesday, Dec. 18-20, and Thursday, Dec. 22, at the Jewish Federation, 114A Lime Ave.. Performances will be in March at a venue in the San Gabriel Valley. More information at www.jewishsgpv.org or call the Jewish Federation of the San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys at 445-0810.

Set in 1959, Curtains is a musical satire of backstage murder mystery plots. The story begins when the untalented star of the musical within the musical, Robbin' Hood of the Old West, is murdered during her curtain call. The plot unfolds as Lieutenant Frank Cioffe, a police detective and musical theatre fan, arrives to solve the case and ends up saving the show and, perhaps, even finding love.

- Brad Haugaard

Christmastime Activities in Monrovia: Toy Drive; Carriage Rides; Tree Lighting and Parade; Santa Breakfasts: Santa Tours City; New Year's Eve

~ Spark of Love Toy drive on the 400 Block of Myrtle on Saturday, Nov. 26.

~ Horse-drawn carriage rides 3-6 p.m. on these Sundays: Dec. 4, Dec. 11, and Dec. 18. Also on Thursday evenings.

~ Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6 p.m. at the corner of Myrtle and Lime on Thursday, Dec. 1, followed by Christmas parade at 7 p.m. (Parade Route is along Myrtle through Old Town.

~ Santa Claus breakfasts in Old Town: Peach Cafe Dec. 3 and 17 at 8 a.m.; Monrovian Family Restaurant Dec. 17 at 9 a.m.; Jake's Roadhouse Dec. 3 and 10 at 9:30 a.m.; Rudy's Mexican Restaurant Dec. 12 and 17 at 11 a.m.; and Myrtle Tree Cafe Dec. 10 at 10:15 a.m. Contact restaurant for reservations.

~ Santa in a fire truck tours the city. Here's his schedule:

- Monday, Dec 12: south of Huntington, west of Myrtle to Fifth. Also includes Valley Circle.

- Tuesday, Dec 13: East of Myrtle, north of Foothill.

- Wednesday, Dec 14: West of Myrtle, north of Foothill.

- Thursday, Dec. 15: East of Myrtle, south of Foothill, north of Duarte Road.

- Friday, Dec 16: West of Myrtle, south of Foothill to Huntington,  between Myrtle and Fifth

For more information, contact The Monrovia Police Department at 256-8000.

~ New Year's Eve in Old Town, with a beer and wine garden (for adults), family fun, and a midnight ball raising.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Hillside Wilderness Preserve Officially Open


Monrovia City Council members and the Community Services Commission officially and fully opened the Hillside Wilderness Preserve with a ribbon cutting ceremony this morning at the Cloverleaf entry point to the preserve.

Comment: Thank you to the city officials and staff who have finally resolved this issue. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Dinner at Cafe LuMar

 
Had dinner last night at Cafe LuMar, on the south side of Colorado a half block east of Myrtle. Croatian food. I got the goulash for $17 and a Croatian beer for $6.50. It came with a little toast and spread appetizer and a tangy cabbage salad. I've eaten here several times and always been pleased and it was just as good this time. I was full but my wife got a dessert crepe. I took one bite: wonderful!
- Brad Haugaard 

Christmas Celebration Concert at Monrovia's First Presbyterian Church

Monrovia's First Presbyterian Church is holding a Family Christmas Celebration with Gospel Choir and Orchestra concert on Friday, Dec. 2, at 7:30 p.m. Photos with Santa following the concert. The church is at the corner of Foothill and Myrtle.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Assault on Family Member; Wallet Stolen From Kitchen; Victim Finds His Stolen Car; Etc.

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

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Felony Battery – Suspect Arrested
November 14 at 10:58 a.m., dispatch received a call from a resident in the 1200 block of Sherman stating their son was currently at the residence in violation of a court order. Officers arrived and detained the son. Further investigation revealed the son was wanted by the Monrovia Police Department for felony battery for assaulting another family member. The suspect was arrested without incident.

Residential Burglary
November 14 at 7:51 p.m., an officer responded to a residence in the 200 block of W. Lemon and spoke to the victim of a residential burglary. The victim stated he had put his wallet on his kitchen table and then went to sleep. Two hours later, he woke up and discovered his wallet missing. The investigation is on-going.

Public Intoxication
November 14 8:21 p.m., an officer responded to a church in the 700 block of Shamrock regarding some items placed on their property between the buildings. The officer contacted a subject on the property that did not belong there after hours. The subject was too intoxicated to care for himself and was arrested for being drunk in public. He was taken into custody and held for a sobering period.

Injury Traffic Collision
November 15 at 10:50 a.m., a traffic collision was reported at the intersection of Shamrock and Huntington. A vehicle was driving west on Huntington and made an illegal u-turn at Shamrock. The vehicle was hit by another vehicle driving east on Huntington. When the vehicles collided, one of the vehicles went out of control and up into a gas station, where it hit a fire hydrant. Both parties were taken to a hospital for injuries.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia / Mail Theft / Parole Violation – Suspect Arrested
November 16 at 10:36 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 100 block of W. Cypress and noticed a suspicious subject sleeping in a parked vehicle. The officer contacted the subject and further investigation revealed the subject was on active parole and a search uncovered stolen mail and drug paraphernalia. The suspect was detained and taken into custody.

Grand Theft Auto Recovery
November 16 at 6:43 p.m., an officer responded to the report of a recovered stolen vehicle on the 1000 block of E. Huntington. The victim had reported his vehicle stolen to Temple City Sheriff’s and called the Monrovia Police Department stating he had located his vehicle.

Monrovia's AeroVironment Has New Drone for Farm, Energy, Transportation Industries | Garden Club Potluck

~ Monrovia-based AeroVironment has a new drone called Quantix out that targets the agricultural, energy and transportation markets. It is equipped with four rotors, two on the ends of a single wing, and takes off vertically. Product line manager Tom Stone said, "If you can draw a box on a screen and push a button, you can fly Quantix. You don't have to learn how to fly it, how to land it, and it'll take off automatically, plan the mission automatically, fly that mission automatically, come back and land, and you can take the data card and put it in this tablet and you can look at the results immediately."

~ The Monrovia Garden Club will hold its Annual Holiday Pot Luck on Tuesday Dec. 6, at 7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall at First Presbyterian Church, at Myrtle and Foothill. There will be a silent auction for items donated by members. The meeting is open to the public and starts at 6:30 pm.

- Brad Haugaard