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Monrovia High School Auditorium Back in Action

The Monrovia High School Auditorium is apparently fit for habitation again after the fire. In an email today to the congregation of Fellowship Monrovia, which meets there, Pastor Albert Tate wrote: "Last night we got the call that the Performing Arts Center Auditorium is now ready! Everything has been cleaned and cleared from the fire back in November so we'll be meeting in there for the 8:30, 10:00 & 11:30 AM services." http://goo.gl/0vcTWJ

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Jewish Federation Presents: Once Upon a Mattress

The Jewish Federation, based in Monrovia, will present "Once Upon a Mattress," a play performed by the JFed Players at The Clarke Center in Arcadia. A musical interpretation of the children's fairy tale, "The Princess and the Pea" - but for adults. Play dates and ticket information here: http://goo.gl/7HVko9 . Or call 445-0810.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia City Council: Consultants and Budget Adjustments

At the Feb. 2 Monrovia City Council meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/8mDYtv ), the council will ...

- Consider hiring Gibson Transportation Consulting to prepare an Old Town Parking Analysis, and to recommend any improvements. That could cost up to $52,260. http://goo.gl/lW7ReT

- Consider hiring a VCA Code for up to $39,600 to review and update the City's Historic Preservation Program. http://goo.gl/yhbRcp

- Consider some mid-fiscal-year budget adjustments. http://goo.gl/6LFxiC

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Claim Jumper


Dinner recently at Claim Jumper, on Huntington. Got a BBQ Chicken Sandwich for $12.99 and a large beer for $8.25. The sandwich was tasty but I couldn't come close to finishing it, so I got two meals for the price of one.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Company's Electric Charger is Finalist in Automotive Awards Competition

The portable electric car charger, TurboCord Dual, made by Monrovia-based AeroVironment, has been listed among the 2016 Automotive News PACE Awards Finalists. http://goo.gl/HNIuVX

- Brad Haugaard

Emergency Response Training by Monrovia Fire Department

CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) training March 5th, 12th and 19th at Monrovia Fire & Rescue, Station 101, 415 S. Ivy Ave. CERT, according to FEMA, "educates individuals about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills." If you are interested, sign-up information here: [UPDATE: The city says there's a problem with the sign-up page and will get back to me when it's fixed. then I'll plug it back in.]

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Car Broken Into For Six Pairs of Shoes; Harley Stolen; Pedestrian Hit Crossing Against Light

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 25-27. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 371 service events, resulting in 65 investigations.

Vehicle Burglary
January 25 at 7:00 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 800 block of West Olive. An unknown suspect smashed a window on the vehicle to gain entry and stole six pairs of shoes that were left in the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
January 25 at 9:05 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 100 block of Montana on the report of a stolen motorcycle. The victim parked his Harley Davidson motorcycle on the street in front of the location. The victim’s girlfriend noticed the motorcycle was missing at 9:00 a.m. She checked the surveillance camera and could see a male Hispanic subject get on the motorcycle and ride away. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
January 25 at 12:44 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 500 block of South Madison. Unknown suspects broke into the vehicle and took a GPS and tools that were left inside. The investigation is continuing.

Traffic Stop/Weapons Offense/Warrant – Suspects Arrested
January 26 at 2:15 p.m., an officer on patrol stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation. As the officer approached, he smelled marijuana in the vehicle and obtained consent to search the vehicle from the driver. A loaded firearm was located in the trunk of the vehicle and the driver, who admitted it belonged to her, was arrested for the weapons violation. One passenger was also arrested for an outstanding warrant.

Traffic Collision
January 27 at 10:47 a.m., police responded to the report of a traffic collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian. An elderly women stepped onto the street in the crosswalk against the red hand signal and was struck by a vehicle making a right turn onto southbound Mountain. She suffered a broken elbow and was taken to a hospital for treatment.

Monrovia Representative's Bill Would Require License for 'Behavior Analysis'

Assemblyman Chris Holden, who represents Monrovia, has introduced AB 1715, which "would require a person to apply for and obtain a license from the board [Board of Psychology] prior to engaging in the practice of behavior analysis" and "would require the Governor to appoint 2 additional members to the board" ( http://goo.gl/LUF1f9 ). A Holden press release says the bill "protects children with autism," among others.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Restaurant Le Gourmand To Reopen Under New Name | Detail on Big Accident

~ Old Town Monrovia merchant Pam Fitzpatrick reports that Le Gourmand restaurant "will be closing for about 30 days to reorganize, then will reopen with a brand new name and new offerings." http://goo.gl/cghGxo

~ More detail on the big accident at Myrtle and Foothill. http://goo.gl/xeBheT

- Brad Haugaard

Taxes and the Artist Workshop

Feb. 13, 10 a.m. to Noon, "Taxes and the Artist" Workshop at Monrovia Community Center - Monroe Room, 119 W. Palm Ave. Essentials of income tax for artists and artist groups of all disciplines, and the self-employed. Learn to track income and expenses and correctly file taxes. Topics include: record keeping, Form 1040, Schedule C, the self-employment schedule, deductions, hobby losses, home offices, and more. A workbook, "The Art of Deduction," is included with the admission fee. Additional handouts will be provided. Presenter is Abe Carnow, C.P.A., who teaches other accountants about individual income taxation, business income taxation, and ethics. 30 seats available. $20 for MAFA current and past members, $30 for non-members, $10 for students 21 and younger with valid ID: $10 Go to http://bit.ly/1nmsELn to purchase tickets.

- Brad Haugaard

Cop-On-Campus Working Well; Development Standards; Improving Parks

In his weekly report ( ), City Manager Oliver Chi reports that ...

- The state Office of Historic Preservation has included an article on Monrovia in its Preservation Matters newsletter. Starting on page 20. http://goo.gl/MNNTnr

- Assistant Principal Scott Iler of Monrovia High reports that Police Officer James Ruano, serving as School Resources Officer at the school, is "tearing down walls and preconceived notions about law enforcement officers."

- There will be two meetings to go over the city's proposed development standards: Thursday, Jan. 28, 2016 at 7 p.m., and Monday, Feb. 1, 2016 at 7 p.m. Both at the Monrovia Public Library Community Room.

- There will be two Parks & Recreation Needs Assessment meetings to discuss improving city parks. Saturday, Jan. 30, from 9-11 a.m. in the Library Community Room (321 S. Myrtle Avenue), and on Saturday, Feb. 6 from 9-11:00 a.m. at Fire Station 102 (2055 S. Myrtle Avenue).

- Brad Haugaard

State Requiring Monrovia to Spend $231.1 Million Or Face Fines of $10,000 Per Day

City Manager Oliver Chi reports ( http://goo.gl/KVEBSL ) that Monrovia's bill to comply with a state environmental project, the Enhanced Watershed Management Program (EWMP), will actually be $231.1 million, more than the $214.15 million indicated in his last report, and, according to the state's schedule, the first project needs to be finished by 2020 and all the projects need to be finished by 2028.

Let's see now, if we divide the $231 million by the 13 years between now and 2028, we get $17.76 million per year. Monrovia's current annual budget is about $33 million ( http://goo.gl/QhoXAI ), so that means that if the city does not cut, it would have to raise more than half again as much money per year and the annual budget would have to go to about $50.77 million a year.

Chi writes: "Given this overall scenario, it is unrealistic to expect that our EWMP group will be able to comply with the implementation schedule that the State Water Resources Control Board (Water Board) is requesting. We have been doing everything possible within the constraints of financial reality to meet the expectations of the Water Board, however, we have been told that should we be unable to meet the timelines, the Water Board will likely issue us a Notice of Violation (NOV) with fines of up to $10,000 / day for being in noncompliance."

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Library Book Sale | Rain Very Likely Sunday

~ Friends of the Monrovia Public Library Spring Sale on May 13-14, noon-5 p.m. on Friday and on Saturday, May 14, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. $5 a bag sale Saturday from 4-5 p.m.

~ 80% chance of rain this Sunday. http://goo.gl/VnR5SB

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Jewelry Taken From Wall Safe; Unhappy Customer; Driving High; Thefts From Vehicles; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 21-24. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Grand Theft
January 22 at 1:38 p.m., a grand theft was reported at a residence in the 200 block of Greystone. The residents, an elderly couple, noticed the door to their wall safe was open. They inventoried the contents and found several pieces of jewelry were missing. The couple does have two subjects they have hired to help around the property, but do not know who may have taken the jewelry. The investigation is continuing.

Battery/Vandalism
January 22 at 10:56 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 900 block of South Magnolia regarding a battery that had just occurred. The suspect took his vehicle to have an audio entertainment system installed, but there was a dispute over the billing. The suspect pushed and struck the installer and the owner of the business. The installer sustained a swollen hand defending himself from the suspect. The owner sustained a swollen eye, and the suspect was taken to a hospital for complaint of pain. The investigation is continuing and the report will be submitted to the District Attorney’s office for possible filing of charges.

Driving Under the Influence of Drugs/Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
January 23 at 9:15 a.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 400 block of West Maple Avenue. The caller was following a vehicle that struck two parked cars and hit the curb while driving west on Maple. The vehicle pulled into a business parking lot near Fifth and Huntington and stopped. Officers arrived and found the suspect behind the wheel of his vehicle. He seemed disoriented and unaware of his surroundings. The officers determined the subject was driving under the influence of a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Theft From a Vehicle
January 23 at 6:45 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a business parking lot in the 400 block of Huntington regarding a theft from a vehicle. The victim parked his vehicle in front of a business and went inside. He returned 30 minutes later and saw a male adult suspect going through his trunk. He yelled out and the suspect fled in a vehicle. The loss was a backpack containing miscellaneous items. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
January 23 at 8:19 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in 600 block of West Huntington. The victim parked his vehicle in a business parking lot and went into work. He returned later and discovered his vehicle had been ransacked. The victim's checkbook was taken from the center console and a backpack containing baseball equipment was taken from the trunk. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
January 23 at 9:37 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 100 block of Colorado. The victim parked his vehicle in the 100 block of Colorado and went into work. When he returned to his vehicle after work, he discovered his vehicle had been ransacked. The loss was a wallet from the driver's door pocket, which also contained his debit card. The victim reported that the debit card had already been used at a business. The investigation is continuing.

Citrus Top Degree Producer | Holden Bill Would Pay For Stop-Smoking Treatments

~ Citrus College, which serves Monrovia, has once again this year been named one of the nation's top degree and certificate producing two-year institutions by Community College Week. The bi-weekly magazine releases a special report featuring the top 100 degree and certificate producing two-year institutions in the nation. This year, Citrus College was included on seven of the 44 lists, the most since the magazine began publishing the report in 2003.

~ State Assemblyman Chris Holden, who represents Monrovia, has introduced a bill to have MediCal pay for treatment for poor Californians who want to stop smoking. http://goo.gl/ixenfJ

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Council to Meet With MAD Council

A joint meeting tomorrow (Jan. 26) of the Monrovia City Council and the Monrovia-Arcadia-Daurte Town Council (I believe it represents unincorporated area next to Monrovia, Arcadia and Duarte). http://goo.gl/N9xO2w

- Brad Haugaard

Dedication of Monrovia's Station Square

The dedication of Station Square is going on today until 2 p.m. Kid activities and booths for local organizations. 

Note: Better pictures here: http://goo.gl/RbCpuL


Ribbon cutting. 


A bandshell area. 

Play areas for the children. 


A long fountain. 


The old train station still needs to be refurbished. 

A mini train just for today. 

- Brad Haugaard 






Dinner at The Shrimp House


Dinner last Sunday at the Shrimp House, at the corner of Myrtle and Live Oak. Got the Sunday Special, steak, shrimp and lobster for $16.99 and a draft beer for $2.99. It comes with two sides; I chose red beans and rice (in the cup) and a salad which you don't see because I ate it. I liked! Very tasty and filling.
- Brad Haugaard 

The Woman Who Inspired Charles Schulz to Create Franklin, at Monrovia Library

Franklin

For Black History Month, meet Harriet Glickman, the teacher who inspired Charles Schulz to include the first African-American character in his comic strip, Peanuts. Then, watch the 1977 movie, Race for Your Life, Charlie Brown. Saturday, Feb. 20 at 1 p.m. at the Library Community Room. Call 256-8274 for more information. Source: Press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Council/School Board Meeting | New Microbrewery; New Restaurant; New Kids' Center

~ The Monrovia City Council and Monrovia School Board are getting together for a joint meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/YgedBH ) at 6 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 25, to discuss: Santa Fe Middle School traffic; Santa Fe Middle School planters; and Monrovia Days.

The Monrovia Development Review Committee ( http://goo.gl/NQEwL1 ) recommended approval of these three projects:

~ A new microbrewery called Hop Secret is seeking a Conditional Use Permit to move into the Station Square Transit Village.

~ A new Mediterranean restaurant, called Hummos & Pita is hoping to open in the next few months on Lemon Avenue.

~ "Dream Big Children's Center," an indoor play and exploration zone for children ages 1-10, is planning to open somewhere near Old Town.

- Brad Haugaard

Citrus Student Newspaper Cleans Up On Journalism Awards

The Citrus College Clarion student newspaper recently won 14 journalism awards from the Journalism Association of Community Colleges. Citrus College serves Monrovia. Seven reporters and graphic designers received awards in 11 categories, including JACC's highest honor, General Excellence. Evan Solano, the Clarion's managing editor and JACC Southern Region student president for 2015-2016, received eight of the Clarion's awards, establishing a Citrus College record. Source: Press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovians Mostly Positive About Gold Line


An unscientific survey by Monrovian Robert Parry suggests that Monrovia is generally positive about the coming of the Gold Line. Parry said that about half of all those who responded to the survey came to it from MonroviaNow.com.

Update: More detailed data (negative to the left, positive to the right):


- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Thieves and Drunks; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 18-20. - Brad Haugaard]

Note: Some of the dates below say "July." Methinks that is wrong. Will update when I hear back from Police Department.

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 357 service events, resulting in 69 investigations.

Grand Theft Auto
July 18 at 9:25 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 100 block of East Walnut. The suspect took keys from a business and then returned later and stole a box truck containing antiques. The investigation is continuing.

Traffic Violation/Resisting Arrest – Suspect Arrested
July 19 at 12:04 a.m., an officer on patrol conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for a vehicle code violation in the area of Huntington and Fifth. The driver had no identification in his possession and gave the officer a false name. The officer had the driver step out of the vehicle and he fled on foot. Containment of the area was established, but the suspect was not located. The two passengers in the vehicle identified the driver by name. The suspect was later positively identified by his California Driver’s License photograph. A case will be presented to the District Attorney's office seeking charges against the driver for resisting arrest and driving on a suspended license.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
July 19 at 3:40 a.m., an officer was conducting routine patrol in the 200 block of East Hillcrest Boulevard when he located a subject stumbling down the street on Hillcrest. The subject was extremely intoxicated and unable to care for himself. He was arrested for public intoxication and held for a sobering period.

Grand Theft Auto
July 19 at 6:04 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the area of Lime and Shamrock. The victim left his older model pickup truck parked on the street. The door on the vehicle does not lock. An unknown suspect stole the vehicle sometime overnight. The investigation is continuing. 

Petty Theft from a Vehicle 
July 19 at 6:30 p.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 200 block of South Magnolia. The victim parked and locked his vehicle on the street in front of his residence. When he returned to his vehicle, he noticed his backpack was missing from the backseat.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
July 19 at 9:03 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the intersection of Mountain and Duarte on the report of a subject staggering in the roadway. The officer arrived and found the subject was extremely intoxicated and unable to care for himself. He was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
July 19 at 10:16 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the 200 block of east Maple regarding a suspicious subject laying in the driveway of a residence. The officer arrived and found the subject was intoxicated and unable to care for himself. He was arrested and held for sobering.

Injury Traffic Collision
July 20 at 12:27 a.m., officers responded to the report of an injury traffic collision at the intersection of Mountain and Huntington. The investigation revealed that one of the vehicles was traveling westbound on Huntington and ran a red light. The vehicle collided into another passenger vehicle. Both parties involved were taken by ambulance to a hospital for complaint of pain.

Residential Burglary
January 20 at 2:20 p.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 400 block of Genoa. The victims left the residence with the back slider open for their dogs. Unknown suspects entered the home and took a television, a computer, and an iPad. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
January 20 at 6:33 p.m., police responded to a vehicle burglary in the 900 block of West Duarte Road. The victim parked and locked her vehicle in the driveway of her children’s school and walked inside to pick them up. She returned to the vehicle moments later and discovered the passenger side window had been smashed. The victim’s purse and workbag were stolen from the front passenger seat. The investigation is continuing.

City Faces Monstrous Cost In Complying With Environmental Law; Mayor Pro Tem's Mother Dies; Station Square; Development; Etc.

City Manager Oliver Chi says in his weekly report ( http://goo.gl/ecuhtI ) that ...

- Monrovia estimates it will cost the city $214.15 million to comply with state stormwater treatment requirements and at a meeting, representatives from the State Water Resources Control Board "were unapologetic about the implications that we face in complying with the provisions of our MS4 Permit, which mandate the completion of significant capital projects by 2017." Chi adds that, "the indications we received from the State Water Resources Control Board staff point to a situation where we will likely be at odds with the State regarding this particular matter moving forward."

- On Jan. 12, Geneva Monroe Spicer, mother to Mayor Pro Tem Larry Spicer, passed away. She was born on April 26, 1931, and moved to Monrovia in 1954. Known as Mother Spicer by Second Baptist Church of Monrovia, she served faithfully as a foster care parent for Los Angeles County.

- Station Square Park, the new train station area at 1601 S. Myrtle, will be decicated on Saturday, Jan. 23 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Live entertainment, arts and crafts for children, a Canyon Park critter display, giveaways, refreshments. LA Metro will distribute train safety and other Gold Line materials. http://goo.gl/4ey2fM

- The city has been working on proposed modifications to its development standards and is about ready to present the results of its work. Details here on meetings to give feedback on the plan: http://goo.gl/ecuhtI

- The Monrovia Chamber of commerce wil hold a banquet to honor its various award winners. The Iris Award will go to Janet Wall; The Monroe Awar to BMW Monrovia; The Dick Lord Award to Alfredo Mejia (CIBA Real Estate); and Military Service and Stewardship Award to Hector Elizalde.

- The Library has established a display in the Youth Services Room to highlight the 115 entries received for the 2016 Water Conservation Calendar Contest. You can also pick up a calendar when you view the entries.

- Wednesday, Feb. 3, Monrovia will host an open workshop to discuss the Bicycle Master Plan at the Community Center (119 W. Palm.) at 6 p.m. Also, a pre-workshop bicycle ride starting at 5 p.m. at the bicycle rack in Library Park.

- Brad Haugaard

ChapCare Gets New Chief Medical Officer

Dr. Mitchell S. Kushner has been named Chief Medical Officer of Community Health Alliance of Pasadena (ChapCare), which has an office in Monrovia. Kushner is a Board-certified Internal Medicine Physician with more than 30 years experience specializing in HIV and communicable diseases and more than 10 years of senior management experience, having previously been employed as the Medical Director of Community Health for the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and as the City of Long Beach Health Officer. Source: ChapCare press release. Source: press release.

- Brad Haugaard

Effect of Gold Line on Monrovia | Volunteers for Homeless Count | New AeroVironment President

~ What do you think the effect of the Gold Line coming to Monrovia will be? Anonymous survey here: https://goo.gl/tRbDdX . Created by Monrovian Robert Parry. (It'll take about 30 seconds.)

~ Volunteers needed for homeless count on Jan. 26. Details: http://goo.gl/pCIsOE

~ Wahid Nawabi, chief operating officer at Monrovia's AeroVironment, will become president of the company. https://goo.gl/lX7RNY

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: 300-Pound Thief; Argument Causes Car Accident; Domestic Violence; Grand Theft Auto Suspect Arrested; Bike Stolen; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 14-17. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Violation of Domestic Violence Restraining Orders/Warrants – Suspects Arrested
January 14 at 6:22 p.m., police received a call reporting a male and female adult arguing in the 1200 block of South Magnolia. Officers arrived and located the subjects. During the investigation, it was discovered that the subjects had domestic violence restraining orders against each other and both had outstanding warrants for their arrest. The subjects were both arrested and taken into custody.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
January 14 at 9:03 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 100 block of East Cypress regarding a male and female adult arguing. The officers arrived and found the subjects outside the residence, still arguing. The argument was found to be over custody of their children. During the argument, the female struck the male in the face with a clenched fist, which caused a bloody lip. The male refused paramedics. The female subject was arrested for domestic violence.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 15 at 8:43 a.m., officers responded to a disturbance between a male and female in the 200 block of North Shamrock. During the investigation, it was discovered that the male subject had two outstanding warrants out of Monrovia. He was arrested and taken into custody for the warrants.

Traffic Collison/Grand Theft Auto – Suspect Arrested
January 15 at 9:22 a.m., a traffic collision was reported at Evergreen and Mountain Avenue. Officers responded to assist the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department at the location. Sheriff’s deputies were in pursuit of a grand theft auto suspect who crashed into another vehicle at the intersection in Monrovia. The suspect fled the scene of the collision, but was apprehended in a business parking lot in Duarte. Monrovia officers handled the traffic collision investigation and sheriff’s deputies handled the grand theft auto investigation.

Petty Theft
January 15 at 1:08 p.m., a mountain bike was reported stolen from a residence in the 400 block of Linwood Avenue. An unknown suspect entered an open garage door and took the mountain bike. The mountain bike is a black and while, 2016, PST Cannondale Synapse with lime green trim. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
January 15 at 1:47 p.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 1700 block of Pilgrim Way. Unknown suspects broke into a residence that is under construction and stole building materials and tools. The investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft – Suspect Arrested
January 15 at 5:10 p.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 500 block of West Huntington regarding a petty theft. Store loss prevention agents phoned to report a female running through the parking lot with stolen merchandise. Officers responded and located the female. She was positively identified by loss prevention and the property was recovered. The suspect was arrested and received a citation to appear in court.

Suspicious Subject/Vehicle Tampering/Parole Hold – Suspect Arrested
January 15 at 5:20 p.m., police received several calls from residents in the area of Alta Vista and Lime reporting a suspicious male subject walking onto their property, up to their homes, and looking into their vehicles. Officers responded and, initially, could not locate the subject. He was eventually located and found to be currently on parole. He was arrested and taken into custody and a parole hold was issued.

Theft of Mail
January 16 at 9:45 a.m., a theft of mail was reported in the 00 block of Hidden Valley Road. The victim described the suspect as an adult, male Hispanic, weighing approximately 300 pounds. The suspect walked up to the front porch of the home and removed a package that had been delivered earlier. The suspect was seen leaving the area in an older, grey Suburban. Police responded, but the suspect was not located. The investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 16 1:24 p.m., police responded to the report of a traffic collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian at the intersection of Myrtle and Huntington. Officers arrived and found a vehicle on the center median that had struck another vehicle in the turn bay. The investigation determined that the traffic collision was caused by an argument between the driver and passenger. The female passenger had exited the vehicle after the collision and ran from the scene. There was no pedestrian involved in the collision. The female was located in the area and was not injured. The male subject was taken to the hospital for complaint of pain.

Possession of Methamphetamine/Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance/Warrant – Two Suspects Arrested
January 17 at 11:59 p.m., officers were dispatched to a residence in the 800 block of West Olive on the report of possible drug activity at the location. Officers arrived and located four subjects at the location that did not have permission to be there. All of the subjects had been drinking or smoking. One subject was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and a second subject was arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance and a warrant.

Monrovia Robotics Team Wins New Award | Bad Cashews!

~ Monrovia High's Kings and Queens robotics team has won the Think Award at the LA Region FIRST Tech Challenge Riobotics qualifying tournament held at De Toledo High School in West Hills. The award is the second highest judged award given at FTC tournaments and is awarded to the team with the most outstanding engineering notebook. (Source: Facebook post)

~ Monrovia-based Trader Joe's is recalling some cashews, which it has discovered may have salmonella. http://goo.gl/otbT7z

- Brad Haugaard

Collection Box Play Set For Feb. 27-28


Ixthus Players presents, "The Collection Box," a presentation for Black History Month set in Virginia during the late 1940s. Feb. 27 (6 p.m.) and Feb. 28 (4 p.m.) at the Fannie M. Goodwin Education Center, 925 Shamrock Avenue, Monrovia. Call 386-8071 for tickets. VIP, $20; General, $15; Seniors, $10; Children, $5. Two adult tickets for $25. Under pressure to save the family farm his parents spent their lives building, Jacob makes a bombshell decision that shocks his new wife, leaves his wedding guests in disbelief and lands him in front of a judge and jury. http://goo.gl/GOl0yw

- Brad Haugaard

Filming CSI in Monrovia


They're about to start filming CSI at 4 PM today, the guard said. On Myrtle just south of Lime. 

- Brad Haugaard

Station Square Park Dedication This Saturday

This coming Saturday (Jan. 23) Station Square Park, the new train station area at 1601 S. Myrtle, will be dedicated. 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Live entertainment, arts and crafts for children, a Canyon Park critter display, giveaways, refreshments. LA Metro will distribute train safety and other Gold Line materials. http://goo.gl/3F423b

- Brad Haugaard

Audition for Monrovia Production of 'The Music Man'

IFGF Church and Centre Stage will hold an open audition for their April 21-May 1 community theater performance of The Music Man. Open to all ages. Auditions are Jan. 23 at IFGF Church, 147 West Palm Ave., Monrovia. Adult/Teens at 9 a.m. Prepare 16 bars of a traditional Broadway piece. Pianist provided. Those auditioning for teen dance ensemble, Harold Hill, Marion, Ethel, Marcellus, Zaneeta and Tommy, will be taught a dance combination. Please wear clothing accordingly. Children at 11 a.m. Children will be taught the opening phrase to Wells Fargo Wagon and a short dance combination. For more information contact Director, Keely Milliken at centrestageinc@yahoo.com Source: press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Council To Consider Hiring Engineering Firms

At its Tuesday, Jan. 19 meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/9WaQII ), the Monrovia City Council will ...

- Consider hiring General Pump Company, Inc. of San Dimas to rehab "Well No. 4" (at 354 Valley Circle, in the south end of town) for $109,100. http://goo.gl/CCua4r

- Consider hiring Gibson Transportation Consulting for $28,000 to prepare an Engineering and Traffic Survey for the city, as required by state law. The survey will include pedestrian and bicyclist safety. http://goo.gl/uglRwV

- Consider paying Civiltec Engineering up to $23,230 to do engineering and design for a proposed Mountain Avenue crosswalk between the Best Buy shopping center on the east side and the BMW dealership on the west. http://goo.gl/us9oNK

- Brad Haugaard

Play, 'Damn Yankees' Playing in Monrovia Jan. 14-16


- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Bella Serra Trattoria


Dinner last night at Bella Serra Trattoria on Myrtle just south of the theater. Got the lasagna ($16) and a beer ($7). The lasagna was good and filling, the place was humming, and the service was great. 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia City Hall Closed Monday | Citrus Receives Grant for Veterans

~ City Hall will be closed Monday in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

~ The Citrus College Foundation has received a grant from the Ludwick Family Foundation that will support the continuing work of the Citrus College Veterans Success Center, which helps student veterans transition from the military to civilian and college life. Citrus College serves Monrovia.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Traffic Accidents; Black Beard Steals Purse; Meth Bust; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 11-13. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 354 service events, resulting in 63 investigations.

Vandalism in Progress – Suspect Arrested
January 11 at 3:19 p.m., police received a report of a subject vandalizing a park in the 500 block of West Olive. An officer responded and detained a subject, who was positively identified by two witnesses and arrested.

Traffic Offense/Resisting and Delaying a Peace Officer/Bench Warrants – Suspect Arrested
January 11 at 5:06 p.m., an officer on patrol observed a subject in the 1300 block of South Shamrock that he knew had several warrants outstanding for his arrest. The subject saw the officer and fled on his bicycle. As the officer pursued him, the subject ran several stop signs and eventually abandoned his bicycle and fled on foot. The officer eventually caught up to him on foot and placed him under arrest. 

Traffic Collision with Injuries
January 12 at 3:40 p.m., a vehicle was traveling westbound on Huntington and ran a red light. The vehicle struck another car that was traveling south on California, causing a rollover collision. There were no serious injuries, just complaints of pain.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia/Possession of a Controlled Substance/ Warrants – Suspect Arrested
January 12 at 10:35 p.m., officers responded to the report of a suspicious male subject loitering in the area of King and Highway Esplanade. When officers arrived, they located a subject matching the description given and made contact with him. The subject had two outstanding warrants for his arrest. He was also found to have a methamphetamine pipe and a useable amount of methamphetamine on his person. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Significant Traffic Collision Investigation
A traffic collision occurred at the intersection of Foothill Boulevard and Myrtle Avenue on Wednesday, January 13, 2016, at 12:54 p.m. As a result of the traffic collision, nine people were injured and required medical attention, including the adult driver of the vehicle believed to have caused the collision. Several others were taken to local area hospitals. The cause of the accident is under investigation and the questioning of the driver believed to have caused the collision is pending, as they are being treated for their injuries and have not regained consciousness at this time. Witnesses stated that the driver of a late model Mercedes-Benz station wagon was driving west on Foothill Boulevard at a very high speed, failing to come to a stop behind the already stopped vehicles at the intersection. The driver then drove around the stopped vehicles and through the intersection against a red light, striking the first vehicle, facing east in the number one lane of Foothill Boulevard. The impact caused an additional number of vehicles to collide into each other. The Mercedes-Benz struck a Toyota sedan, which became airborne, landing on the hood of a large pickup truck. The Toyota then rolled off the truck onto the south sidewalk of Foothill Boulevard, narrowly missing a mother walking her child in a stroller. The child was thrown from the stroller and was later taken to the hospital for medical examination. Due to the extensive scene and the serious nature of several of the injuries, a specialized traffic investigations unit was called to assist. Several vehicles were stored as part of the investigation process so accurate data can be gathered regarding the cause of this collision.

As of January 14, the two most seriously injured persons remain hospitalized in critical condition, but are expected to survive. The infant child that was thrown from the stroller was released from the hospital with minor injuries.

Vehicle Burglary
January 13 at 1:31 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 500 block of West Huntington. An unknown suspect smashed the right rear passenger window of a vehicle and stole a purse containing cash, credit cards, and the victim’s driver’s license. The suspect fled the scene and was chased by a witness for several blocks, but he was not caught. The suspect is described as a male Hispanic, 5'7” tall, with a black beard. He was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans.

Monrovia Police Report on Major Collision At Foothill and Myrtle

A traffic collision occurred at the intersection of Foothill Boulevard and Myrtle Avenue on Wednesday, January 13, 2016, at 12:54 p.m. As a result of the traffic collision, nine people were injured and required medical attention, including the adult driver of the vehicle believed to have caused the collision. Several others were taken to local area hospitals. The cause of the accident is under investigation and the questioning of the driver believed to have caused the collision is pending, as they are being treated for their injuries and have not regained consciousness at this time.

Witnesses stated that the driver of a late model Mercedes-Benz station wagon was driving west on Foothill Boulevard at a very high speed, failing to come to a stop behind the already stopped vehicles at the intersection. The driver then drove around the stopped vehicles and through the intersection against a red light, striking the first vehicle, facing east in the number one lane of Foothill Boulevard. The impact caused an additional number of vehicles to collide into each other. The Mercedes-Benz struck a Toyota sedan, which became airborne, landing on the hood of a large pickup truck. The Toyota then rolled off the truck onto the south sidewalk of Foothill Boulevard, narrowly missing a mother walking her child in a stroller. The child was thrown from the stroller and was later taken to the hospital for medical examination.

Due to the extensive scene and the serious nature of several of the injuries, a specialized traffic investigations unit was called to assist. Several vehicles were stored as part of the investigation process so accurate data can be gathered regarding the cause of this collision.

As of January 14, the two most seriously injured persons remain hospitalized in critical condition, but are expected to survive. The infant child that was thrown from the stroller was released from the hospital with minor injuries.

No further information is available at this time. Updates may be available by calling the Monrovia Police Department Watch Commander at 626-256-8030.

Source: Monrovia Police Department press release

- Brad Haugaard

Embezzler Gets 16 Months for Stealing from Monrovia Company | Rain | EV Charger is Finalist | Bartlett Award

~ Walnut woman sentenced to 16 months in prison for embezzling nearly $1 million from Monrovia company, Mask-Off, a maker of protective films, papers and specialty coatings. http://goo.gl/fsSTpz

~ 60% chance of more rain Tuesday. http://goo.gl/VnR5SB

~ AeroVironment's "TurboCord" Dual plug-in EV charger has been named as a finalist for the 2016 Automotive News PACE Awards. The electric car charger can charge nearly three times faster than others. http://goo.gl/JcbBlD

~ Nominate a Monrovia Area Partnership (MAP) leader for the "Bob Bartlett MAP Leader of the Year Award" someone who is tireless in working to improve the community. The person must be a Neighborhood Leader and have completed the MAP Leadership Academy. http://goo.gl/3eOrjl

- Brad Haugaard

Bad Car Accident at Foothill and Myrtle

Facebook posters note a bad car accident at Foothill and Myrtle with at least six vehicles involved. One person posting mentions an elderly driver and another speeding as contributing factors.

Nine injured, no fatalities: http://goo.gl/H232RZ

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Basketball Defeats Mark Keppel

Monrovia basketball victorious over Mark Keppel, 57-41. http://goo.gl/b4KOkX

- Brad Haugaard

Swedes Like Monrovia Drones

Swedish police using drones made by Monrovia's AeroVironment. http://goo.gl/JR0l7G

- Brad Haugaard

Health Insurance Enrollment Help

On Jan. 23 ChapCare will host its final health insurance enrollment event in Monrovia to help people get enrolled before the deadline. The event will take place at its facility at 513 E. Lime Ave. from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Counselors will answer health insurance questions and help people enroll in a low or no-cost health insurance plan.

- Brad Haugaard

4th Dimension Project Dead; Monrovia Bike Master Plan; What To Do With Parks? Sandbags; Volunteers

In his weekly report ( http://goo.gl/Ugi5L0 ), City Manager Oliver Chi reports that ...

- the 4th Dimension/Community Center project is pretty dead. "After discussing the matter further, the Hale Corporation shared with the City that they would cancel escrow on their proposed purchase of the 4th Dimension facility. That cancellation effectively ends the proposed 4th Dimension / Community Center initiative." A formal City Council action upcoming.

- Open House Workshop to discuss Bicycle Master Plan at the Monrovia Community Center (119 West Palm Avenue) on Wednesday, Feb. 3 at 6 p.m. (Preceded by community bike ride at 5 p.m. starting at Library Park.

- Meetings to ask Monrovians what they want in their parks. Saturday, Jan. 30 from 9-11:00 a.m. in the Library Community Room; Saturday, Feb. 6 from 9-11 a.m. at Fire Station 102 (2055 S. Myrtle Avenue). Call Public Services Department for more info: 256-8246.

- With more rain likely, sandbags available here: Public Services Corporate Yard (600 S. Mountain Avenue, from 7 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday through Thursday); Community Center (119 W Palm Ave from 8 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on Friday); Monrovia Fire Station 101 (141 East Lemon Avenue) and Fire Station 102 (2055 South Myrtle Avenue). Also, gravel for residents at 900 Block of Crescent (between Madison and El Nido); 352 Hill Street (North-East corner of Hill Street and Prospect Avenue); and Recreation Park (near Barney Glen Baseball Field Parking Lot). BYO shovel, gloves, goggles.

- Bob Dollins has been recognized as the 2015 Volunteer of the Year for the Canyon Park / Hillside Wilderness Preserve. Also, Tod Barry and Bonny Hidas received Spirit Awards for their humility and loyalty.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Step In Front of Car, Demand $40; Computer Stolen From Library; 'Friend' Takes Her Car; Driving Drunk; Chasing Cars Both Hit Curb

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 7-10. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Attempt Grand Theft Auto
January 7 at 8:35 a.m., an attempt grand theft auto was reported in the 500 block of East Colorado. The victim parked his vehicle at the location overnight. When he returned to the vehicle at 7:00 a.m., he found the steering column was broken and the ignition was punched. The vehicle was not ransacked and nothing was taken. The investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary
January 7 at 10:48 a.m., officers responded to a business in the 900 block of West Duarte Road regarding a burglary. The owner had arrived at work to find the front window to the business shattered and cash had been taken. The investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft
January 7 at 1:00 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the library in the 300 block of South Myrtle regarding a theft. The victim was working on his computer in the library. He walked outside for a moment, leaving his computer on the table. When he returned, the computer was missing. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
January 8 at 3:35 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 800 block of Colorado. The victim had a female friend stay at her home overnight. When she awoke in the morning, her friend and her vehicle were gone. The victim received a call from the friend saying she took the vehicle and would bring it back later. The victim demanded the vehicle be returned immediately, but the vehicle was not returned. A stolen vehicle report was completed and the vehicle was entered into the law enforcement stolen vehicle database. The investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
January 9 at 2:05 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation in the 2600 block of California. Through further investigation, it was determined that the driver was intoxicated and was driving under the influence of alcohol. The driver was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
January 9 at 4:26 a.m., dispatch received a call of a possible drunk driver in the area of Olive and Myrtle. Officers responded and located the vehicle stopped to the rear of a business in the 1600 block of South Shamrock. The officers determined the driver was intoxicated and was driving under the influence of alcohol. The driver was arrested and taken into custody.

Traffic Collision/City Property Damage
January 9 at 11:44 p.m., officers responded to the area of Foothill and Madison on the report of a traffic collision. Two vehicles were following each other, heading west on Foothill. The first vehicle tried to turn south onto Madison, but was traveling too fast. The vehicle struck the curb, then hit a traffic signal pole and a planter. The second vehicle turned onto Madison and tried to avoid the first vehicle, striking the curb, also. The driver and passenger of the first vehicle were taken to the hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. Both drivers were traveling to fast to make the turn. 

Traffic Collision (Vehicle vs. Pedestrian)
January 10 at 4:30 p.m., a traffic collision was reported at Huntington and Mayflower. A pedestrian was hit by a vehicle. When officers arrived, they found the victim arguing with the driver. The driver stated that she was stopped on northbound Mayflower at Huntington, ready to make a right turn. As she began her turn, the pedestrian stepped onto the street and was hit by the vehicle, which was traveling at approximately 2 miles per hour. The victim immediately approached the driver and asked her for forty dollars. The investigation is continuing.

Station Square Dedication Festival Set for Jan. 23

Station Square Park, the new train station area at 1601 S. Myrtle, will be decicated on Saturday, Jan. 23 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Live entertainment, arts and crafts for children, a Canyon Park critter display, giveaways, refreshments. LA Metro will distribute train safety and other Gold Line materials. http://goo.gl/4ey2fM

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Robotics Team Wins Award | E-Waste Options

~ Monrovia High's robotics team, The Kings and Queens, has been awarded the Inspire Award at yesterday's Los Angeles Region Qualifying Tournament in Palm Desert. Pretty good considering that "we had not completed the mechanical build and programming of Sir Percival in time to adequately test and troubleshoot." The win "secures us a spot in the Los Angeles Region Championship to be held on February 27th."

~ You can drop off e-waste at the Allan Company (145 W. Duarte Road) Monday through Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Not accepted: toasters, refrigerators, air conditioners, broken televisions and computers. Or, give Athens a call to arrange curbside pick-up: (800) 336-6100.

- Brad Haugaard

How to Bring More Students to Monrovia Schools

At its next meeting (agenda: Here ), the Monrovia Board of Education will, among other things ...

~ hear about "the features and benefits of increasing the number of international students accepted into Monrovia High School," the main benefit of which appears to be that the district gets $13,000 a year, or about $4,500 more per student than from other students. Details.

~ hear a report on the "Spanish Dual Immersion" program, which is designed to bring more students into the district, and teach language and provide a marketable skill. Details.

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Luscious Dumpling

Dinner last night at Luscious Dumpling, in the shopping center on Duarte Road at Sixth. Got the Pan Fried Pork Dumplings for $8.50 and a hot tea for free. Pleasant, quick service, no language problem and food was very good. Note: it's cash only. 

- Brad Haugaard

Community Center Swap Dead? | Monrovia Soccer Star

~ From what I understand from folks who attended the study session last night regarding the proposal to turn the 4th Dimension into the Community Center and the Community Center into housing, the proposal has hit snags that have nothing to do with its popularity or unpopularity, and is therefore extremely unlikely to proceed.

~ A feature story on Monrovia High soccer star Chris Wong. http://goo.gl/v9ORSm

- Brad Haugaard

Fellowship Monrovia Celebrates By Sharing

January is the four-year anniversary of Fellowship Monrovia, the church that meets at Monrovia High, and as part of its celebration the church will provide lunch for teachers and staff of Monrovia High on Friday, Jan. 22, and for teachers and staff of Monroe Elementary and Beardslee Elementary (Duarte) on Monday, Jan. 25. Plus, it is providing 300 "Bags of Blessings" for teachers and staff at Monrovia High, Mayflower Elementary, Wild Rose Elementary, and Plymouth Elementary.

- Brad Haugaard

E-Waste Collection Saturday at Monrovia High

E-waste round-up at Monrovia High School this Saturday, Jan. 9 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. http://goo.gl/MlMuIZ

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Burglar Tries to Steal Battery Owner Had Removed; Vehicle Hits Pedestrian; Duffle Bag Burglar; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 4-6. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 375 service events, resulting in 60 investigations.

Attempt Vehicle Burglary
January 4 at 1:46 p.m., an attempt vehicle burglary was reported in the 400 block of East Duarte Road. An unknown suspect broke a window on the vehicle to gain entry. The handle to open the vehicle’s hood was also broken to possibly steal the battery, but the owner had taken the battery out of the vehicle, due to previous thefts. The investigation is continuing.

Traffic Collision
January 4 at 5:20 p.m., police responded to a traffic collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian at Foothill and Primrose. The pedestrian stepped off of the sidewalk on a green light at the same time that a vehicle was making a right turn on the green light. The pedestrian sustained a possible broken foot.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 4 at 7:20 p.m., an officer on patrol in the area of Myrtle and Pamela observed a vehicle exceeding the posted speed limit and conducted a traffic stop. The investigation revealed the driver was driving on a suspended license and had an outstanding warrant for her arrest. The driver was arrested and later released on a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Burglary
January 5 at 1:19 p.m., a business in the 500 block of West Huntington called police to report a burglary that had just occurred. A subject entered the store and filled two duffle bags with jeans, then fled the location. And officer arrived and checked the area, but the suspect was not located. The loss prevention officer notified their other store locations in the area of the theft. The suspect attempted to burglarize a store in Glendora and was apprehended by the Glendora Police Department.

Gold Line Construction Authority Wins Award For On-Time, On-Budget Project

The Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority has been recognized for the successful completion of the Foothill Gold Line light from Pasadena to Azusa with a Project Achievement Award for design-build projects worth more than $100 million by the Construction Management Association of America's Southern California Chapter. The award follows the on-time, on-budget completion of the nearly $1 billion, 11.5-mile, six-station light rail extension last September.

Construction Authority Board Chairman Doug Tessitor said, "I believe the Construction Authority's design-build process should be a model for other agencies. We were able to manage the needs of three design-build teams, five different cities, and many other third-party agencies using design-build because the process allows for flexibility and is able to adjust quickly to new information and constituents' needs."

Source: press release

- Brad Haugaard

Trader Joe's Accused of Underfilling Tuna Cans

Lawsuit says Monrovia-based Trader Joe's underfilled its cans of tuna. http://goo.gl/2GQ1tM

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Rotary/Kohl's Provide Socks and Underwear to Needy

Janie Duncan of Foothills Kitchen, Dr. Sylvia Domotor and club president Bill Shieff.

Monrovia Rotary Club recently worked with Kohl's Department Store on its Santa Clothes project. Event chairperson Dr. Sylvia Domotor met with Jamie Duncan of the two-year-old Foothills Kitchen project based at the Methodist church and decided to spend the $1,148 Kohl's credit on socks and underwear. Ms. Duncan thanked the “Monrotarians” and explained that the Foothills Kitchen’s mission has expanded from its initial objective of providing meals for those in need to making other essentials such as clothing and blankets available. The Foothill Kitchen is a non-denominational organization with members from various congregations and lay organizations thruought Monrovia.

- Brad Haugaard

Heavy Rain Today | Water Swamping Monrovia Backyard

~ 100% chance of "heavy rain" today in Monrovia. http://goo.gl/VnR5SB

~ Video of water inundating Monrovia backyard. http://goo.gl/iExeoG

- Brad Haugaard

Fellowship Monrovia Hosting Blood Drive

Fellowship Monrovia is hosting a blood drive with Huntington Hospital on Jan. 10 from 7:45 .a.m - 1:45 p.m. in the Monrovia High parking lot. Details: http://goo.gl/2zjfGz

- Brad Haugaard

Evensong at St. Luke's Church

The first Evensong of 2016 will be sung at Saint Luke's Episcopal Church on Sunday, Jan. 17, at 4 p.m. The choir will sing for Epiphany, joined by guest singers, including a contingent from Grace Episcopal Church, Glendora. Selections will include British composer John Linton Gardner's "Entry of the Three Kings." Jacqueline Stong will be oboist. An offering will be taken. Wine and cheese reception after the service. The church is at 122 S. California Ave. at Foothill Boulevard.

- Brad Haugaard

4th Dimension/Community Center | Iris Sculpture

In his weekly report ( http://goo.gl/6Hc6O6 ) City Manager Oliver Chi reports that ...

- There will be a Special Study Session on Jan. 7 at 7 p.m. at the Library Community Room to consider the proposed 4th Dimension/Community Center project. And speaking of which, the 4th Dimension nightclub has ceased operations.

- As part of its low-water re-landscaping in front of City Hall, a purple iris sculpture (Monrovia's official flower) has been installed at the southwest corner of City Hall.

- Brad Haugaard

Sand Bags Available

Mayor Tom Adams writes that the city has gravel bags available for residents at the following locations:

  • Public Services Corporate Yard (600 S. Mountain Avenue, from 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday)
  • Community Center (119 W Palm Ave from 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday; and 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. on Friday)
  • Monrovia Fire Stations on Saturday and Sunday

Please note… residents may request up to 25 bags per resident, however, special circumstances may allow for the distribution of additional bags

Gravel is available on a self-service basis (residents need to bring a shovel, safety goggles, and gloves) for resident use in a containers located at the following places:

  • 900 Block of Crescent (between Madison and El Nido) 
  • 352 Hill Street (North-East corner of Hill Street and Prospect Avenue)
  • Recreation Park (near Barney Glen Baseball Field Parking Lot)

Please note… City staff will be on-call and available to help with filling gravel bags for residents in need of assistance. Please call (626) 932-5575 for additional information.

Monrovia Considering Smoking Ban in City Parks

There will be an open Community Services Commission meeting to discuss a proposed ban on smoking in Monrovia parks at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 27 in the Monroe Room of the Community Center at 119 W. Palm Avenue. For questions, call Tina Wells at the Monrovia Community Center, 256-8234.

- Brad Haugaard

Chef To Speak at Monrovia Rotary Club

Chef Alexander Reyes from the Saute Culinary Academy will speak Jan. 5 at the Monrovia Rotary Club. Details: http://goo.gl/2H3TMl

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Stolen Car Rolls Over; Car Window Busters; Hit and Run - Walking Dog Without Dog; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 28 – January 3, 2016. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Vandalism
December 28 at 9:02 a.m., a vandalism incident was reported in the 500 block of Parkrose. An unknown suspect shattered the driver-side window of the victim’s vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
December 28 at 4:58 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 700 block of West Foothill. A 2001 Saturn was taken from the rear carport of the property sometime between 5:20 a.m. to 6:45 a.m. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
December 29 at 9:15 a.m., an officer responded to the report of a vehicle burglary in the 700 block of South Myrtle. An unknown suspect shattered the right rear window of the victim’s vehicle and stole a purse and other miscellaneous items that were left in the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
December 30 at 9:48 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the 500 block of West Huntington on the report of a vehicle burglary. The victim parked and locked his vehicle in a parking lot and went into a business. He returned approximately 40 minutes later and found his rear hatch door ajar and the third row seat had been stolen from his vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Weapons Offense – Suspect Arrested
December 31 at 12:27 a.m., a suspicious person was reported in the 800 block of Ridgeside. The subject was seen coming out of the backyard of a home where the residents were on vacation. Officers responded and located a vehicle leaving the area. The driver matched the description of the suspicious subject reported. The officer stopped the vehicle and the investigation revealed the subject was in possession of a loaded firearm that was concealed in his vehicle. He was arrested for the weapons offense. No crime could be confirmed at the residence on Ridgeside. The suspect was later released with a citation to appear in court on the weapons charge.

Grand Theft Auto
December 31 at 8:35 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 700 block of Wildrose. A family member’s vehicle was missing from the residence. The vehicle owner was contacted and confirmed the vehicle had not been loaned out to anyone. The vehicle was entered into the stolen vehicle database. The stolen vehicle is a silver, 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
December 31 at 9:37 a.m., the victim called police to report that his vehicle was stolen from in front of his residence in the 800 block of West Walnut on December 30. He did not report the theft right away, as he initially thought someone was playing a joke on him. The vehicle is a silver, 2002 Ford Escort. The vehicle was entered into the stolen vehicle database and the investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
December 31 at 11:39 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 200 block of East Colorado. The victim said the vehicle was locked and he had no idea how the suspects gained entry. Several tools were taken from the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered – Suspects Arrested
December 31 at 3:24 p.m., a stolen vehicle was located in the 1800 block of South Myrtle. Officers followed the vehicle as it entered the 210 Freeway at Myrtle Avenue, heading west. Officers coordinated their traffic stop and the vehicle was directed to exit the 210 Freeway at Huntington. The officers detained and arrested three subjects: one was held for the stolen vehicle charges, one was held on fraud charges, and the third subject was later released. The vehicle was inventoried and released back to the victim.

Hit and Run Traffic Collision/Trespassing – One Suspect Arrested
January 1 at 1:00 a.m., police received a call reporting a hit and run collision in the area of Montana and Bonita. The resident stated that their parked vehicle had been struck by a vehicle that fled the scene. Police received a second call from another resident indicating their parked vehicle was also struck. The occupants were last seen walking away from the vehicle.

Officers searched the area and located a subject on the railroad tracks nearby. The subject indicated he was walking his dog, but he didn't have a dog with him. The vehicle was registered to a Monrovia residence. Officers went to the residence and found the owner, who indicated he did not know his vehicle was missing. The investigation is continuing. The subject located on the train tracks was arrested for trespassing on railroad property. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
January 1 at 11:10 a.m., the victim reported his vehicle was stolen from in front of his residence in the 500 block of South Magnolia Avenue. The vehicle was taken sometime between 7:30 a.m. and 11:10 a.m. The vehicle is a silver, 1996, 4-door, Honda Accord. The driver-side doors are blue and grey. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto/Vehicle Pursuit/Hit and Run Collision
January 2 at 2:45 a.m., a stolen vehicle was located in the 1800 block of South Myrtle. Officers followed the vehicle as it entered the 210 Freeway and the driver fled from officers. Officers pursued the vehicle, which exited in Pasadena. The driver headed south on El Molino and tried to make a turn onto Huntington, where his vehicle collided into a vehicle making a u-turn. The suspect vehicle rolled several times. The driver was able to get out of the car and flee on foot. An area search was conducted, but the driver was not located. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
January 3 at 10:24 p.m., a resident in the 300 block of Highland called police to report their home had been burglarized sometime between 4:30 p.m. and 10:15 p.m. Entry was made by force through a rear window and the residence was ransacked. Some jewelry was taken. The investigation is continuing.

'The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel' at Monrovia Library

Monrovia Providers Group will present a free screening of the British Comedy, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (PG-13) on Saturday, Jan. 9, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Monrovia Public Library. A multi-generational event for baby boomers, friends and family. Light refreshments and aging information and resources. For free tickets call 205-4308 or email movie@monroviaproviders.org

Man Shot in Unincorporated Monrovia | Mt. Sierra College Moving Across Town

~ Man was shot Sunday night while sitting his car in an unincorporated area of Monrovia. http://goo.gl/Bi8o5A

~ Monrovia's Mt. Sierra College is moving from Huntington Drive to a new campus on Royal Oaks. http://goo.gl/OhexQf

- Brad Haugaard

Rain Forecast for Monrovia

Rain shouldn't be too intense in Monrovia today, but tomorrow, Tuesday, there is the possibility of more than an inch of rain ( http://goo.gl/VnR5SB ). Areas below burn areas should prepare for possible mudslides. Overall, a rainy week. This might be a good time to remind folks that the city has a "Sandbag Saturday" event planned for Jan. 9: http://goo.gl/zgjb3V

- Brad Haugaard

Rain Coming Next Week to Monrovia

Looks like a rainy week coming up. Monday 60%; Tuesday 100%; Wednesday 90%; Thursday 60%; Friday 50%; Saturday 20% and next Sunday 50%. http://goo.gl/VnR5SB

The National Weather Service warns of flooding around burn areas from recent fires. I suppose that applies to sections of North Monrovia as well: http://goo.gl/fnIZfr

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at 38 Degrees Ale House


Dinner recently at the new 38 Degrees Ale House, just east of Myrtle on the south side of Colorado. Got the pork schnitzel ($17) and a 12 ounce beer for $7. All very tasty. And Happy New Year, by the way!

- Brad Haugaard 

Politics Over Monrovia

Don't know if you can read this picture I just snapped, but it says "America is great! Trump is disgusting." Well, Happy New Year to you too.

Followed just now by: "Trump loves to hate anybody but Trump. US  Trump is delusional"

Hmm. I'm beginning to think somebody doesn't like the man.

- Brad Haugaard

Happy New Year - Good Chance of Rain Next Week

Good chance of rain Tuesday (60%), Wednesday (80%) and Thursday (60%). That's a good way to start the new year. Happy New Year! http://goo.gl/VnR5SB

- Brad Haugaard