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Monrovia vs. San Marino

Monrovia vs. undefeated San Marino in baseball. http://goo.gl/tpwA75

- Brad Haugaard

Citrus 12th in Degrees to Hispanic Students

Citrus College, which serves Monrovia, has been ranked 12th out of more than 1,100 community colleges in the United States in awarding associate degrees to Hispanic students according to "The Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education," a biweekly publication that reaches more than 50,000 readers. This is the ninth consecutive year the college has been included on the magazine's Top 50 list, and its highest ranking to date. Last year, the college was ranked number 22. Source: Citrus press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Four Catalytic Converters Stolen; Stolen Credit Card Used Fast; Drug Bust; Shoplifting Arrest

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

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 446 service events, resulting in 94 investigations.

Theft From a Vehicle
March 28 at 8:51 p.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 100 block of Sutter Creek. The victim had locked the doors of her vehicle and went inside the residence of a friend she was visiting. While she was inside the residence, her son entered the vehicle to get his backpack and failed to lock the doors when he exited. When they returned to the vehicle to leave, she noticed her purse was missing. She then drove home. Before the officer arrived at her house, she had found out that someone had already used one of her credit cards at a gas station at Huntington and Monterey. The investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 29 at 1:58 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle at Foothill and Canyon for a vehicle code violation. The driver displayed signs and symptoms of alcohol use. The investigation revealed the driver was too impaired to drive a motor vehicle safely. He was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Stolen Vehicle
March 29 at 6:34 a.m., an officer responded to a residence in the 400 block of North Canyon regarding a stolen vehicle report. The vehicle taken is a silver, 2004 Cadillac Escalade. The vehicle was taken sometime between 11:00 p.m. on March 28 and 6:30 a.m. on March 29. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
March 29 at 8:29 a.m., an officer on patrol in the area of Magnolia and Colorado was flagged down by a resident. The resident told the officer that someone had stolen the catalytic converter from her vehicle during the night. The vehicle is a 2009 Honda Element. The vehicle was parked on the southwest corner of Colorado and Magnolia at the time of the theft. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
March 29 at 12:09 p.m., an officer responded to a theft of a catalytic converter from a residence in the 100 block of N. Highland. The vehicle, a 2005 Honda Element, was parked on the street. The investigation is continuing.

Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
March 29 at 3:59 p.m., a possible drug sale taking place at a park in the 300 block of S. Myrtle was reported to police. An officer arrived and detained a subject matching the description. Further investigation revealed the subject was in possession of methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. He was arrested without incident.

Grand Theft
March 29 at 8:28 p.m., a grand theft from a vehicle was reported in the 700 block of W. Hillcrest. The victim parked his vehicle in front of his residence in the evening. When he returned to his vehicle the next morning and started it, the vehicle made a loud noise. A mechanic checked the vehicle and found that someone stole the catalytic converter from the vehicle. A grand theft report was completed and the investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
March 29 at 9:16 p.m., a grand theft from a vehicle was reported in the 300 block of W. Lime. The victim parked and secured her vehicle on the street in front of her house. When she returned to her vehicle the next morning, she started the engine and realized something was wrong based on the sound of the vehicle. A mechanic told her someone had stolen her catalytic converter from her vehicle. A grand theft report was completed and the investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting – Suspects Arrested
March 30 at 7:38 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington regarding three subjects concealing merchandise on their person. Loss prevention personnel reported they were preparing to exit the store. Officers arrived and detained three suspects that exited the store without paying for the merchandise they had concealed. All three suspects were arrested for shoplifting.

Historical Museum Curator Leaves | Belly Dancers

~ Monrovia Historical Museum curator, Mark Sill, has left the museum, he and his wife Peggy having moved to Beaumont, California. The museum's "Museum Musings" says that, "His work over the last seven years has left our museum the center of many cultural events in Monrovia, as well [as] being known all over the San Gabriel Valley for its collection of artifacts and exhibits."

~ The former Bull Taco, on Lemon just east of Myrtle, will become The Diplomat, and hopes to have belly dancers. http://goo.gl/EYOqHp

- Brad Haugaard

Cinderella Movie at Monrovia Library

Free screening of Disney film, Cinderella, Saturday, April 9, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Monrovia Public Library. For tickets call 205-4308 or email movie@monroviaproviders.org. Light refreshments and information on aging. Presented by Monrovia Providers Group.

Addressing Homelessness in Monrovia; Expand Metro Parking; Concerts; Hotel; Shuttle; New Fire Engines; History Test; Beer Fest

In his weekly report ( http://goo.gl/0DC9yE ), City Manager Oliver Chi reported that ...

~ To address homelessness in city parks, Monrovia plans to install video surveillance cameras, develop police and park ranger patrols of parks, and streamline the city process of connecting the homeless with services. The City Council will discuss this at its April 5 meeting.

~ The city is talking with Metro about expanding the 350-slot parking garage at Station Square, which gets up to 70% full during peak hours.

~ The city has been talking with Levitt Pavilion of Greater Los Angeles & Pasadena about putting on a concert series at the new band shell in Station Square.

~ The city got five proposals in response to its request for proposals to build a hotel at the southwest corner of Myrtle Avenue and Huntington. Proposals were from Tharaldson Hospitality Development; Singpoli Group; Arbor Capital Group, Inc.; CFT NV Developments, LLC; CIBA Real Estate on behalf of Corinthian Development Company.

~ The experimental 5-10 p.m. weekend shuttle between the train station and Library Park carries 60-70 people a week, most on Friday evenings. The city will keep running the shuttle for a few more months to see how it works.

~ The city got two new fire engines manufactured by Kovatch Mobile Equipment. They're at Station 102. Also got a command truck. They're red.

~ Test your historical knowledge of Monrovia April 3 at the Monrovia Historical Museum (742 East Lemon Ave.) on Sunday, April 3, from 2-4 p.m. City Historian, Steve Baker will field questions. See if you can "Stump Steve." Also, hear about becoming a member of the Monrovia Historical Museum.

~ Monrovia Station Beer & Music Fest on Saturday, April 16 from 2-6 p.m. at Station Square Park. Over 30 beers from award winning breweries! Live music from Go Betty Go & the Delgado Brothers and food from local vendors. General Admission $45. Proceeds benefit the Monrovia Chamber of Commerce & Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills. Details and tickets: https://goo.gl/fjvze4

Story of Mt. Sierra's Move Across Monrovia

The story behind Mt. Sierra College's move across Monrovia. http://goo.gl/iSkzMn

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Library Offers Forgiveness

The Monrovia Public Library is celebrating National Library Week by forgiving any late fines you have on books, magazines, DVDs, music CDs and audio books.

- Brad Haugaard

State Bill Would Promote Water-Efficient Landscaping

The Water Efficient Landscaping Bill, AB 2525, by Monrovia's Assemblyman Chris Holden, has passed the Assembly Water, Parks, and Wildlife Committee on a 9-3 vote. It would create the California Water Efficient Landscaping Program to encourage Californians to make their landscaping more water efficient. If the legislature allocates money for the program, there will be a residential turf rebate program, jobs program, and public education.

- Brad Haugaard

Metallic Balloons Caused Monrovia Power Outage - Hopefully Fixed by 3:30 P.M.

Southern California Edison is now reporting that the power outage in north Monrovia caused by metallic balloons should be fixed by about 3:30 p.m. today. It is affecting about 460 customers.

- Brad Haugaard

Power Outage in North Monrovia

Southern California Edison reports that there are power outages in parts of north Monrovia affecting about a thousand customers. It is still analyzing the problem. One resident reported a loud explosion, as if a transformer blew out. https://goo.gl/MUxo2e

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Armed Robbery; Racing Cars on Huntington; Car Hits Pedestrian; ID Theft; Domestic Violence x 3

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 24-27. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Grand Theft Auto Recovered / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspects Arrested
March 24 at 1:06 p.m., an officer observed a vehicle that appeared suspicious. It was driving slowly in the 200 block of W. Colorado and making unusual turns. The driver eventually stopped abruptly and motioned to the officer to pass. The officer pulled in behind the vehicle and ran a license plate check, which revealed the vehicle had been reported stolen out of West Covina and had been used in a carjacking. There were three occupants in the vehicle; a male and female were taken into custody and a third female subject fled, but was not located. Drug paraphernalia was found on the male driver of the vehicle. The two suspects were arrested. The male suspect was later released to the West Covina Police Department on the grand theft auto charges.

Domestic Violence
March 25 at 2:41 p.m., police responded to the 100 block of N. Fifth regarding a domestic violence incident. A male and female that have been living together for 11 years were involved in an argument. During the argument, the male subject punched the female subject in the head and then pushed and shoved her, causing visible injuries. The male subject fled the area prior to police arrival. An Emergency Protective Order was obtained. The investigation is continuing.

Traffic Offense / Speed Contest – Suspect Arrested
March 25 at 6:23 p.m., an officer observed two vehicles that were racing each other on Huntington Drive. The officer was able to stop one of the vehicles. He contacted the driver, who admitted to racing the other vehicle. A police helicopter searched for the second vehicle, but it was not located. The suspect that was detained was arrested and later released on a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Injury Traffic Collision – Vehicle Versus Pedestrian
March 25 at 9:16 p.m., officers were dispatched to Mayflower and Evergreen regarding a pedestrian who was struck by a vehicle. Investigation revealed the pedestrian was walking south on Mayflower in a marked crosswalk at Evergreen. A vehicle was traveling south on Mayflower and made a left turn onto Evergreen. The driver did not see the pedestrian in the crosswalk and struck him. The victim landed on the hood of the vehicle, rolled off and struck his head on the pavement. He was taken to a hospital with serious head trauma. The victim was later listed in stable condition and is expected to survive his injuries.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 26 at 2:14 a.m., an officer observed a vehicle commit a vehicle code violation traveling north on Peck at Live Oak. The officer conducted a traffic stop and contacted the driver. After further investigation, the officer determined the driver was driving under the influence of alcohol. The suspect was arrested, held for a sobering period and later released with a citation to appear in court.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 26 at 2:18 a.m., an officer observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed and conducted a traffic stop on Mountain at Central. Investigation revealed the driver was driving under the influence of alcohol. The suspect was arrested, held for a sobering period and later released with a citation to appear in court.

Traffic Collision / Felony Driving Under Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 26 at 2:58 a.m., officers were dispatched to the intersection of Huntington and Ivy regarding a solo vehicle traffic collision. The investigation revealed the driver was driving under the influence of alcohol, lost control of his vehicle and struck the curb in the intersection. A passenger in the suspect's vehicle was injured during the collision and was taken to the hospital for treatment. The suspect was arrested for felony DUI and held pending his court appearance.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
March 26 at 10:37 a.m., an officer responded to the 200 block of W. Cherry regarding a domestic dispute. When officers arrived, the female victim told them she was involved in an argument with her boyfriend. She reported that he choked her, hit her and threw keys at her, causing visible injuries. The suspect was still at the location and was uncooperative. The suspect was arrested for domestic violence and taken into custody.

Identity Theft – Suspect Arrested
March 26 at 7:40 p.m., officers were on patrol in the area of Primrose and Pomona when they heard a woman screaming. The officers located a male and female involved in a verbal altercation. A consent search of their vehicle resulted in the discovery of a notebook that belonged to the male suspect. The notebook was found to contain personal, identifying information from multiple victims. The suspect was arrested for identity theft and held until his court appearance.

Robbery / Canyon and Colorado
March 26 at 10:48 p.m., a victim called police and reported he was robbed at gunpoint by four male subjects at Canyon and Colorado. The victim stated the suspects were all wearing blue bandanas and all had semi-automatic handguns. The suspects ransacked the victims vehicle and stole his wallet and skateboard. The suspects fled south on foot, but were not located after an extensive search. Later, the victim called and stated he found his wallet in a nearby alley. During the robbery, the suspects made statements about belonging to a local street gang. The investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence
March 27 at 10:39 a.m., a female and male who are boyfriend and girlfriend were in an argument in the 400 block of Duarte Road. The boyfriend began hitting and kicking the girlfriend. She sustained numerous visible injuries, but did not want paramedics to treat her. She also refused a Protection Order. The boyfriend fled the location prior to police arriving. A wanted person entry was issued in the law enforcement system for the suspect. The investigation is continuing.

Vandalism
March 28 at 1:04 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 400 block of Duarte Road for an alarm call at a business. The officer arrived and found a large window had been smashed with an unknown object. The business owner checked the location and found that nothing had been taken. The investigation is continuing.

Suspicious Package Briefly Halts Train Service to Monrovia

Trains temporarily bypass Monrovia after suspicious package discovered. Rice cooker? http://goo.gl/87Liuq

- Brad Haugaard

Man Robbed at Gunpoint | Trader Joe's Recalls Chocolates

~ Man robbed at gunpoint of wallet and skateboard in Monrovia Saturday night. http://goo.gl/sMyRhp

~ Monrovia-based Trader Joe's has recalled its Chocolate Orange Sticks and Chocolate Raspberry Sticks because they may contain milk, which is not listed as an ingredient. http://goo.gl/FISZ24

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Mayor Posts Sign Supporting Bernie Sanders

On Facebook yesterday evening (March 27) Mayor Tom Adams posted a picture of a campaign sign apparently supporting presidential candidate Bernie Sanders:

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Black Angus


Dinner at Black Angus on Huntington the other night. Got a 12 ounce ribeye steak with baked potato soup and a Caesar salad for $25.99, and a large beer for $8.45. Very good!
- Brad Haugaard

Art Class for Children at Monrovia Library

Free introductory drawing and painting class at Monrovia Library for children 5-12, Wednesday, March 30, 3-4 p.m. in the Library Community room. Call 256-8274 for details.

3-D Printing Comes to Monrovia's Clifton Middle School


Clifton Middle School got a 3-D printer from Pasadena-based New Matter, through its education grants program. (Note: New Matter is a sister company to my own company and designed and built the printer, its first production model.) http://newmatter.com/#!/education

- Brad Haugaard

Restaurants Coming to Monrovia

Pam Fitzpatrick reports that the closed Le Gourmand restaurant on Myrtle is reopening as the "Myrtle Street Cafe," and a restaurant called Press Cafe will open in the Paragon building. http://goo.gl/GhC8xX

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Missing Girl Found; Bike Rear-Ended; Store Catches Robbery Suspect; Stealing Hammers; Fighting; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for March 21-23. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 415 service events, resulting in 93 investigations.

Critical Missing Returned
March 21 at 6:31 p.m., detectives were contacted by the grandmother of a critical missing female juvenile. The granddaughter had taken her vehicle without permission. The grandmother reported that the missing juvenile had returned home. She was instructed to come into the station and contact an officer. Both subjects came into the police station as requested. The juvenile was counseled and taken out of the missing persons system.

Hit and Run Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
March 21 at 11:56 p.m., an officer witnessed a driver rearend a subject riding a bicycle with a utility trailer attached to the back of his bike. The rider was thrown to the pavement. The driver drove about 100 yards and stopped. When the officer pulled up to the scene, the driver fled. Monrovia Fire Department responded immediately, along with additional officers to assist the injured bicyclist. The officer was able to catch up to and stop the suspect driver at Duarte and Magnolia. The driver was arrested for felony hit and run. The bike rider was taken to a hospital with minor injuries.

Robbery – Suspect Arrested
March 22 at 1:01 p.m., a male adult suspect entered a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain and concealed merchandise on his person. Loss prevention personnel detained the suspect and asked him to return the merchandise. The suspect agreed to return the merchandise if loss prevention would let him leave. Loss prevention told the suspect that would not happen and the suspect tried to flee with the merchandise. The store employee and the suspect struggled in front of the store on the ground until officers arrived. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody without further incident.

Burglary
March 23 at 1:26 a.m., officers responded to a burglary alarm at a school in the 900 block of E. Lemon. Upon checking the campus, officers discovered someone had broken into a school room. A rock had been thrown through a classroom window and an iPad was stolen, along with other miscellaneous items. The investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting/Providing False Information – Suspect Arrested
March 23 at 9:31 a.m., a male adult suspect attempted to steal two flashlights from a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain. He was detained by store loss prevention personnel. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody, as he had no identification. His prints returned later under a different name than he provided to officers. The crime of providing false information to an officer was added to his charges.

Shoplifting/Warrant – Suspect Arrested
March 23 at 2:12 p.m., a male adult suspect walked into a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain with the intent of stealing two hammers so he could sell them. He walked out of the store and was followed by loss prevention. The suspect was detained by officers at Mountain and the 210 Freeway. He was also found to have an outstanding felony burglary warrant. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Commercial Burglary
March 23 at 5:23 p.m., a commercial burglary was reported at a business in the 500 block of E. Lime. One of the offices in the building was left unlocked overnight. An unknown suspect entered the business and removed a laptop computer from an office area. The investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
March 23 at 7:21 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the area of Chestnut and Ivy when he heard a subject yelling at people in the area. He contacted the subject, who had been drinking. The subject was determined to be too intoxicated to care for himself and was arrested for public intoxication. He was held for a sobering period.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
March 23 at 7:29 p.m., an officer stopped a vehicle in the 400 block of E. Olive for a vehicle code violation. A computer check of the driver revealed he had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested for the warrant and taken into custody.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
March 23 at 8:35 p.m., staff at a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington called police to report a theft of electronics that had just occurred. The suspect exited the store with the stolen merchandise and went into another business. Officers arrived, waited for the suspect to exit the store and detained him. The stolen property was recovered and the suspect was arrested.

Battery – Suspect Arrested
March 24 at 2:18 a.m., officers responded to the report of disturbing subjects at a parking lot in the 400 block of W. Maple. Officers located two brothers that had been drinking and were fighting. One of the brothers was arrested for battery and taken into custody.

Tours of Historic Monrovia With City Historian Steve Baker

Four one-and-a-half hour historic tours of Monrovia with Monrovia Historian Steve Baker. $50 each; proceeds benefit the Monrovia Historical Society. Each tour limited to 20 people. Tickets at Community Center (119 W. Palm) or contact Historical Society at 256-3423. Tours are:

- June 18, 1 or 3 p.m. Tour 1: Northwest Monrovia. Homes of Monrovia's founders, etc.

- July 17, 11 a.m. or 2 p.m. Tour 2: Northeast Monrovia. Grand estates of early residents, fruit orchards, tuberculosis sanitariums, Canyon Park, etc.

- Aug. 13, 1 or 3:30 p.m. Tour 3: Southeast Monrovia. Homes of Wild Rose, Monrovia airport, Route 66, Live Oak Cemetary, etc.

- Oct. 16, 11 a.m. or 2 p.m. Tour 4: Southwest Monrovia. Site that became Monrovia High, Mayflower Village (Cowtown), dairy, train station, etc.

- Brad Haugaard

AeroVironment Drones Guide Through Antarctic Ice

The Coast Guard is trying out drones made by Monrovia-based AeroVironment to scout routes through the Antarctic ice for ice breakers, a job that has been done by helicopters and satellite imaging. http://goo.gl/aFeUog

- Brad Haugaard

Have a Spa at Home - Class at Monrovia Library

Moms' Night Out, Thursday, April 21 at 7 p.m. at the Library Community Room. Join host Kate Garland to discover ways to have simple spa time at home using therapeutic grade essential oils. Natural skin care tips, safe and gentle detox baths, foot massages for pain relief, improve memory and concentration, tips for better sleep and more energy, and more. Free, and you don't have to be a mom. Class size is limited. Please register at: http://tinyurl.com/z4cgz54 . For more information call 256-8274.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police Officers to be Honored

Monrovia Police Officer David Andrew, Officer Brian Cofield, Officer John Donchig, School Resource Officer James Ruano, and Police Services Representative Evelyn Ruedas will be honored at the Police Department's Annual Awards Ceremony in the Monrovia City Council Chambers on Thursday, March 24 at 5 p.m. A reception will follow immediately after the event in the Police Department Community Policing Room, and everyone is welcome. Source: City Manager Oliver Chi's weekly report: http://goo.gl/qVi1Qy

- Brad Haugaard

Construction About to Start on New Monrovia Apartment Building

Architect's rendering of new apartment building.

Construction should begin on an apartment project at the southeast corner of Fifth and Huntington "within the next month or so," City Manager Oliver Chi wrote in his latest weekly report ( http://goo.gl/qVi1Qy ). It will replace the former self-storage facility with a "four-story, 154-unit apartment complex, along with a small 1,340 square foot commercial space at the north corner of the building."

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Congresswoman Proposes Federal Overlay Over Part of City


Congresswoman Judy Chu, who represents a sliver across the top of Monrovia, has proposed an expansion of the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument to include an even larger chunk of Monrovia. The map above shows the border of Monrovia in black. The green part is already part of the national monument, red is the proposed expansion area for the monument, and blue would be for a proposed San Gabriel Mountains National Recreation Area. In his weekly report ( http://goo.gl/qVi1Qy ), City Manager Oliver Chi said the city has informed Congresswoman Grace Napolitano (who represents most of Monrovia and who co-sponsored the bill with Chu) that the city wants to be excluded from any national recreation area. He adds that "Napolitano’s staff reached out to the City to let us know that the NRA Bill is still sitting in committee and that there does not seem to be any interest by the Natural Resources Subcommittee on Federal Lands – or by the House of Representatives for that matter – to consider the NRA Bill in 2016." Note: Chi politely refrains from mentioning that Chu introduced this measure, but she did: https://goo.gl/tNl5bC

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Baseball Over South Pas

Monrovia baseball victorious over South Pasadena. http://goo.gl/I4Qn2f

- Brad Haugaard

Women's Soccer Calls Up Monrovia Teen

U.S. women's soccer calls up Monrovia teen Ashley Sanchez. http://goo.gl/5HgJ9m

- Brad Haugaard

Meet Author Attica Locke at Monrovia Library


Meet author Attica Locke Saturday, April 16 at 2 p.m. at the Library Community Room as she talks about her latest novel, Pleasantville. Locke is the author of the national bestseller, "The Cutting Season" and "Black Water Rising." She is currently a writer and producer on the Fox drama, Empire. Books available for purchase at the event.

- Brad Haugaard

Lillian Sass Named Woman of the Year


Lillian Sass, coordinator of the Citrus College Foster/Kinship Education and Resources Program (FKCERP), has been named a Woman of the Year for the 25th Senate District by Senator Carol Liu.

Sass was selected because of her commitment to supporting foster youth and her dedication to educating foster and adoptive families. Citrus College serves the Monrovia area. Source: Citrus press release

- Brad Haugaard

Postage Stamp Train Tickets

Using the train regularly now, I think I've figured out the Metro ticketing system.

If you stand at the machine trying to figure out what it costs to get to Union Station or Culver City, or whatever, you will pull your hair out with frustration, but if you think of it as a postage stamp it becomes a lot clearer.

If you send a letter across the street or to New Hampshire it costs the same. In the same way, for $1.75 you can get to wherever the trains go (what a deal!), as long as you can get there in a couple hours. At least I think that's how it works. Metro could be clearer with its messaging but it's not bad once you change how you look at it.

UPDATE: Since I'm on the subject of trains, I just had the worst experience this morning. I waited 20 minutes (during rush hour) for a train in Monrovia and then it was shoulder to shoulder all the way to Pasadena. Sardine City. 52 minutes door to door. I started taking the train because it was almost as fast and much more pleasant. Today it was much slower and much more unpleasant than driving. A few more experiences such as I had this morning and I'll be back in my car.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia School Board Agenda

Here's the agenda for the March 23 Board of Education meeting: here. Doesn't look like anything too earthshaking.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Gang Graffiti At Clifton; Burglaries From Cars; Drunk; Drunk and Driving; Five Arrested in Drug Bust; $100,000 Bail for Driving Without License

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

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Vehicle Burglary
March 17 at 4:33 p.m., the victim of a vehicle burglary came to the police department lobby to file a report. The victim parked her vehicle in a parking lot in the 800 block of West Colorado. When she returned, her purse was missing from inside the vehicle. The victim believes she locked the vehicle. There were no signs of forced entry. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
March 17 at 5:18 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 500 block of S. Shamrock. The front passenger-side window was smashed and a handbag, tablet and other miscellaneous items were taken from inside the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
March 18 at 12:17 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of West Lemon called police to report a male subject on his lawn. Officers arrived and located a male subject wandering around in the area that matched the description. The subject was intoxicated and did not know where he was. The officers determined the subject was too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested and held for sobering.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
March 18 at 12:50 a.m., an officer on patrol saw a male subject stumbling down the street. He stopped the subject to check on his welfare and determined he was extremely intoxicated and unable to care for himself. The subject was arrested and held for sobering.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 18 at 1:50 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation, and while speaking with the driver, the officer could smell alcohol. After field sobriety tests were performed, it was determined the subject was intoxicated. The driver was arrested for driving under the influence.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
March 18 at 4:41 p.m., officers responded to a residence in the 200 block of Norumbega regarding the report of drug activity at the location. The resident gave the officers consent to search the location and officers found drug paraphernalia. A female subject admitted the items were hers and she was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia.

Receiving Stolen Property – Suspect Arrested
March 19 at 12:56 a.m., officers detained a subject walking through a park in the 700 block of E. Lemon after it was closed. The subject was walking with a bike that had an address and a phone number on it. The officers phoned and spoke to the owner of the bike, who reported his bike had been stolen. The subject was arrested for receiving stolen property and taken into custody.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia/Weapons Offenses – Five Suspects Arrested
March 19 at 10:48 a.m., officers were dispatched to a hotel in the 700 block of W. Huntington regarding foot traffic in and out of one of the rooms. Hotel employees suspected possible prostitution. The subjects had also set off the fire alarm in the room earlier in the week and marijuana was smelled coming from the room. When officers arrived, they contacted two males and one female in the room. The female and one of the male subjects are known gang members. The other male is a known drug user and burglar from prior police contacts in Monrovia. The subject who rented the room was not present. Drug paraphernalia and an empty Beretta handgun case were located in the room. The three subjects in the room were arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia.

As one of the officers was leaving the hotel, he saw another known local drug user pumping gas into a vehicle at a gas station across the street. There was a male and female seated in the vehicle. A computer check of the license plate revealed the vehicle was registered to the subject who rented the room at the hotel. Officers detained all three subjects. A search of the vehicle revealed a loaded Beretta handgun, a large amount of methamphetamine, heroin and cash. A total of 5 suspects were arrested for drug and weapon related charges in this incident.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
March 19 at 7:15 p.m., officers responded to a welfare check of a female subject in the area of Myrtle and Chestnut. Officers located the female subject matching the reported description and determined she had been drinking and was not capable of taking care of herself. She was arrested for public intoxication and held for sobering.

Vandalism
March 20 at 10:25 a.m., the vice principal at the high school in the 800 block of Colorado called police to report vandalism of school property. Someone had spray painted gang related graffiti on several buildings. The vandalism occurred sometime over the weekend. The investigation is continuing.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
March 20 at 5:12 p.m., an officer saw a male subject he recognized walking down the sidewalk in the 600 block of S. Mountain. The officer knew the subject had a warrant for his arrest. A computer check confirmed the warrant for his arrest with a bail set at $100,000 for driving without a license. The subject was arrested for the warrant.

New Art Exhibit in Monrovia | Old Homes Tour on May 1


~ A "Works on Paper" exhibit coming to Saga Fine Arts (south side of Lime across from the Library - http://sagafineart.com/ ) on March 22-April 22.

~ Monrovia Historic Preservation Group will again host its annual home tour, but this year on Sunday, May 1, 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., not on Mothers' Day. This is a docent-led tour of five homes and two museums. The selection of homes includes Spanish Colonial Revival, Craftsman, and English Tudor Cottage. Details: http://www.mohpg.org/

- Brad Haugaard

Telescope Night Tonight in Old Town Monrovia

The Old Town Sidewalk Astronomers will be set up this evening at the corner of Myrtle and Lime from around 7-9 p.m. to give people a good look at the moon and Jupiter. One member plans to bring a large 7-inch refractor telescope.

- Brad Haugaard

Alize Neal - Youth Of The Year

Monrovia High Senior Alize Neal, 17, has been chosen as the Foothill Boys and Girls Club's Youth of the Year. http://goo.gl/eDnWPp

- Brad Haugaard

Raising $26,000 for Children's Cancer Research

The St. Baldrick's head-shearing event in Monrovia on St. Patrick's day raised more than $26,000 for children's cancer research. http://goo.gl/6VJ6w9

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Cafe Lori


Dinner at Cafe Lori, "healthy Mediterranean food" on the south side of Lime just east of Myrtle, built into the side of the Krikorian Theater. I got the beef shawarma ($10.50) and a Diet Coke ($1.25). There is not much emphasis on aesthetics here but I was very pleased with the food.

- Brad Haugaard 

Police Seek Missing Monrovia Teen

Monrovia Police are looking for 16-year-old Briana Ysenia Valenzuela, who left her guardian's home in a 2011 silver Buick Regal 4-door, license 6NYL096. She is Hispanic with long black hair, brown eyes, 5'4" and about 175 lbs. suffers from mental illness and takes medication. Contact watch commander at (626) 256-8031 or (626)256-8032 with information.


Sign for New Monrovia Starbucks at Foothill and Madison

Here's the sign that will be labeling the new Starbucks that is going in at the corner of Foothill and Madison (at the location of the old Burger Shack). It should be opening within the next month or so. http://goo.gl/m6kfQJ

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Porn on Church Walls; Runaway Boy; Hit and Run; Etc.

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

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 407 service events, resulting in 92 investigations.

Hit and Run Traffic Collision/Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 14 at 10:28 p.m., officers were dispatched to the report of a hit and run traffic collision that occurred at Mountain and Huntington. While responding to the call, an officer saw a vehicle traveling west in the 700 block of E. Huntington with damage to the front of their vehicle and a flat tire. A traffic stop was conducted. After investigation, the driver was determined to be intoxicated. The victim of the hit and run signed a refusal to prosecute. The driver was arrested for driving under the influence.

Suspicious Item/World War II Military Ordinance
March 15 at 2:20 p.m., a subject came into the station requesting an officer to look at an item in the trunk of his vehicle, which was parked in front of the station. The subject was cleaning out his father's garage on Magnolia and found some type of military ordinance. Upon viewing the item, officers evacuated the area, blocked off the street and notified the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Bomb Unit for safety purposes. The Bomb Unit responded and x-rayed the device. They determined the item was a military illumination device from World War II, and that it still had a possible bursting hazard. The Bomb Unit was able to remove the device safely and intended to detonate it in an open field.

Vandalism
March 16 at 7:32 p.m., a vandalism incident was reported at a church in the 500 block of West Lemon. A classroom inside the church building had been vandalized. The room had been ransacked and a fire extinguisher was discharged in the room. There was also pornography on the walls. This is the third incident of this kind at the location. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto/At-Risk Missing Juvenile
March 16 at 9:20 p.m., a resident reported her juvenile grandaughter stole her car and was missing from the 100 block of North Myrtle. The missing juvenile has a long history of running away and taking her grandmother’s vehicle. The missing person/suspect was entered into the missing persons system and the vehicle was entered into the stolen vehicle system. The investigation is continuing.

Runaway Juvenile
March 16 at 11:27 p.m., the mother of a 14-year-old male subject called police to report her son had run away from home. An officer responded to the location and was told by the mother that her son has been cutting classes. She was having an argument with him and left him momentarily to put her younger son to bed. When she returned, she found he had left the apartment. He took some clothing and belongings with him. Officers checked the area, but were not able to locate him. The juvenile was entered into the missing persons system, and the investigation is continuing.

Warrant/Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
March 17 at 12:36 a.m., officers reponded to a complaint of subjects causing a disturbance at the location by talking loudly. The officers contacted two subjects, one of which had an outstanding warrant for her arrest. During a search of the subject incident to arrest, a glass pipe used for smoking methamphetamine was found on her person. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Warrants/Unlicensed Driver – Suspects Arrested
March 17 at 4:00 a.m., officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for vehicle code violations. Two of the occupants had outstanding warrants for their arrest and the driver was found to be unlicensed. The two occupants with warrants were arrested and taken into custody. The driver was issued a citation.

Man Finds WWII Era Flare, Monrovia Police Evacuate Part of Station

A man who found a World War II era flare turned it in to the Monrovia Police Department Tuesday, which evacuated part of the building and called in the Sheriff's Department bomb squad. http://goo.gl/d5tjSS

Comment: Reminds me of when I was a kid. After a rain a friend and I found a cannon shell (maybe 105 mm) in a wash in the Eaton Canyon area of East Pasadena. We happily carried it home, where it sat in his parent's garage until his mother got nervous and called the cops, who wouldn't go near the thing and called the bomb squad. So... we were pretty dumb. I'd recommend just calling the cops and not even touching anything like that that you might find. I think old explosives can be rather unstable.

- Brad Haugaard

Give Your Thoughts on Monrovia Website

If you have thoughts on how to improve Monrovia's city website, here's where to give your opinion: https://goo.gl/GWVC8X

- Brad Haugaard

Holden Bill Would Require Medi-Cal to Provide Tobacco Cessation Treatments

Assemblymember Chris Holden's Tobacco Cessation Legislation, AB 1696, passed the Assembly Health Committee today with a 16-1 vote. The bill will now head to the Assembly Appropriations Committee. The bill requires tobacco cessation medications, counseling, and assessments to be covered for Medi-Cal patients. Holden represents Monrovia. Source: Holden press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Looking for New Company to Run Street Fair; Bears on Bikes; Sculpture: Fountain to Falls; Etc.


More from City Manager Oliver Chi's weekly report:

~ Here is the Library mural painted onto the bindings of recycled books by artist Mike Stilkey. It is a project led by Youth Services Librarian Annette Simpson. (Photo courtesy of City of Monrovia.)

~ The City is looking for a company to run the Friday Night Family Street Fair. Green Leaf Events, Inc., was awarded a contract to serve as interim operator of the fair. http://goo.gl/gP3916

~ The State Water Resources Control Board is proposing to lower Monrovia's water conservation goal from a 28% reduction when compared with 2013 water usage levels, to a 26% reduction.

~ A sculpture by Daniel Stern, an actor in the Home Alone movie series has been working on a movie-themed sculpture for Old Town for several months (see earlier report: http://goo.gl/E8AarP ) and will show the almost-done work to a city delegation on March 28.

~ Monrovia's Youth Sports Soccer Program registration is open for youth in the 4th and 5th grades. Fee is $35 per participant, here: https://cityofmonroviarecreation.org/.

~ 6th annual Fountain to the Falls Run / Walk will take place on Saturday, May 7 at 7 a.m. A 6.38 mile race from the Library Park Fountain to the Canyon Park Waterfall. Early registration through May 4 for $35; event-day registration is $45. 325 participants max. Register here: https://cityofmonroviarecreation.org/. For more information, call Public Services at 256-8246.

- Brad Haugaard

The Four Problems Messing Up Monrovia Rail-Crossing Traffic

In addition to a faulty traffic-gate controller device (noted earlier), City Manager Oliver Chi notes in his weekly report three more problems that are contributing to the snarl of traffic around railroad crossings:

1. "It appears that several new operational procedures being implemented by Metro may be contributing to the delay at several at-grade crossings. Issues such as access to the maintenance and operation yard, operator switch-outs, and the amount of time that trains hold at platforms are all being analyzed, and the City has been assured by Metro personnel that they will be streamlining their operations as much as possible to limit any direct traffic impacts."

2. Traffic signal timing. The city has been reviewing traffic signal timing sheets and video detection cameras to improve when lights turn green and red.

3. "[The] left turn pocket for eastbound traffic on Duarte heading northbound onto Myrtle has been functioning very poorly. There are a variety of issues that have exacerbated the situation, including the fact that the left turn signal is getting skipped in the traffic phasing when the train crossing is activated. In addition, the lack of capacity in the left turn pocket is also contributing to the backup along Duarte.... [T]he plan right now is to revise the phasing at this intersection by making the left turn the leading phase after the rail crossing arms go up. This means that immediately after the train crossing, the left turn phase for eastbound traffic on Duarte turning north onto Myrtle will be set to clear, allowing 8-10 vehicles to get through the intersection, before it cycles back to the north / south traffic light signal."

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Traffic Snarl Makes TV News | Beer and Music Fest

~ An interesting video report on CBS LA News about the messed up crossing gates at the railroad tracks. http://goo.gl/MRwxfE

~ Monrovia Station Beer and Music Festival. April 16, 2-6 p.m. 21 and over. Live music by Go Betty Go and The Delgado Brothers.

- Brad Haugaard

Good Friday Tenebrae Service at Monrovia's First Presbyterian

Good Friday tenebrae service, Friday, March 25, 7:30-9:30 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Monrovia, at Foothill and Myrtle. Dr. Anthony Osimo leads in reflection on Good Friday. Featuring a choir and orchestra performance of The Seven Last Days by Joel Raney, directed by David Michael Layne. http://goo.gl/YXbvXj

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Missing Girl Located; Possible Stolen Bikes in Garage; Elderly Man Pushes Wrong Pedal; Man Beaten; Etc.

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

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Vandalism
March 10 at 7:30 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 100 block of N. Myrtle regarding a vandalism report. It appears an unknown suspect smashed the driver-side window on a vehicle. There was nothing inside the vehicle in plain view. Officers received information of a second window smash on another vehicle in the 300 block N. Primrose. There was nothing taken from the second vehicle either. The investigation is continuing.

Possession of Stolen Property/Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
March 10 at 10:56 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 100 block of N. Primrose when he saw a suspicious subject walk out from the side of a residence. The subject saw the officer and attempted to walk away, but was detained. While the officer was talking with the subject, the subject appeared nervous and was visibly shaken. The subject said he was not alone at the residence, and that there were other people in the back garage. He gave the officer permission to search the garage. Additional units responded to assist. While walking to the garage, the officers observed numerous expensive bicycles, which appeared to be in the process of having the serial numbers ground off and rims repainted. A search of the garage also revealed drug paraphernalia. The subject was determined to be under the influence of a controlled substance. He was arrested for possession of stolen property and the drug charges.

Petty Theft – Suspect Arrested
March 10 at 8:04 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington on the report of a male subject that fled the store without paying for merchandise. The officers obtained a description of the suspect and searched the area; the suspect was located at a bus bench nearby. During the investigation, the officers located the stolen property, and store loss prevention personnel positively identified the suspect. He was arrested for the crime and taken into custody.

Critical Missing Juvenile Located
March 10 at 10:00 p.m., a female juvenile was reported missing to the Monrovia Police Department. The missing was last seen at her apartment complex in the 500 block of W. Foothill. She had argued with her father over the use of a cell phone. She had gone to school that morning, but had not returned home. Police conducted an area search and followed all investigative leads, but the juvenile was not located. On March 13 at 2:15 p.m., detectives received a lead on the location of the juvenile and went to the Pasadena area to follow up. During the course of their investigation, they located the juvenile at a residence in Altadena. The juvenile’s parents were notified and responded.

Domestic Violence
March 10 at 11:10 p.m., a disturbance was reported at the intersection of Chestnut and Monterey. Officers arrived to investigate and located a female subject hiding near several vehicles. She had been assaulted and had sustained injuries to her face. During the investigation, the officers learned her husband had struck her several times, causing the visible injuries. The officers went to the residence, where the crime occurred, and located the husband. After speaking with him, he was arrested for domestic violence.

Theft from an Unlocked Vehicle
March 11 at 8:56 a.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 200 block of S. Primrose. The victim had parked his vehicle and left it unlocked. Sometime overnight, an unknown suspect entered the vehicle and rummaged through it. A thumb drive and a pair of sunglasses were stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Non-injury Traffic Collision
March 11 at 10:01 a.m., officers were dispatched to a traffic collision at a business parking lot in the 300 block of W. Huntington. An 84-year-old male subject was attempting to park his vehicle and accidentally pushed on the accelerator instead of the brake, causing his vehicle to lunge forward into the side of a building. There was damage to a wall of the building and the store front glass was broken. The subject was wearing his seat belt and sustained no injuries, however, paramedics still responded to check him. A DMV reexamination was issued.

Felony Warrants/Wanted Fugitive/Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspects Arrested
March 11 at 4:13 p.m., officers conducted a high-risk stop on a white VW Jetta in the parking lot of a closed business in the 300 block of W. Foothill. The registered owner of the vehicle had felony warrants out for his arrest and was listed as a wanted fugitive for a weapons charge. The male suspect was arrested and taken into custody without incident. The female passenger was also arrested for being in possession of drug paraphernalia.

Theft of Package
March 11 at 6:42 p.m., a resident in the 300 block of N. Encinitas reported the theft of a package that was delivered and stolen from her porch sometime during the day. The investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
March 11 at 7:57 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 300 block of W. Chestnut when he noticed a subject sitting in a vehicle slumped over. The subject was found to be extremely intoxicated and unable to care for himself. He was arrested for public intoxication and held for a sobering period.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 12 at 4:36 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 300 block of W. Foothill and observed a vehicle commit a vehicle code violation. He conducted a traffic stop and contacted the driver. Through investigation, the officer determined the driver was intoxicated and driving under the influence. The suspect was arrested and held for a sobering period. The suspect was later released with a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
March 12 at 2:34 p.m., two subjects, a boyfriend and girlfriend, were arguing in the area of Palm and Primrose. The male got angry and threw the female to the ground, causing scrapes on her arms. He was arrested for domestic violence and a temporary restraining order was issued.

Traffic Collision/Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
March 12 at 7:27 p.m., officers responded to the area of Duarte Road and Magnolia for a non-injury traffic collision. While speaking to the subjects involved, officers noticed the subject suspected of causing the collision appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. Field sobriety tests were administered and the driver was arrested for DUI. The driver was later released after a sobering period with a citation to appear in court.

Injury Traffic Collision
March 12 at 8:06 p.m., officers were dispatched to an injury traffic collision at Myrtle and Evergreen. A vehicle traveling east on Evergreen was struck by a vehicle traveling north on Myrtle that had failed to stop at a red signal. Three people in the vehicle traveling east suffered minor injuries and were treated at the scene by Monrovia Fire Department personnel.

Fight in Progress/Assault With a Deadly Weapon
March 13 at 1:23 a.m., Monrovia Fire Department personnel were at a business in the 400 block of S. Myrtle for a medical assist and observed a disturbance to the front of the location involving three adult male subjects. The subjects separated and left the location heading in different directions. The subjects came back together around the corner on Lemon. A physical altercation began and the two suspects assaulted the victim. During the assault, he was pushed to the ground, kicked in the head and his head was struck against the pavement. The victim was taken to a hospital for treatment of multiple head injuries. The two suspects had fled the location. The investigation is continuing.

Hit and Run Traffic Collision
March 13 at 1:57 a.m., a hit and run traffic collision was reported in the 100 block of W. Colorado. The victim reported a vehicle had crashed into her parked car and fled. The suspect vehicle was described as a gold-colored, four-door vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Vandalism
March 13 at 3:22 a.m., a resident in the 500 block of W. Duarte Road called police to report a vandalism that had just occurred. The victim was inside his residence when he heard noises outside. He looked out and saw an ex-roommate standing by his vehicle. He went out to confront the subject, but he fled. The victim looked at his vehicle and noticed the tires had been slashed. The suspect was not located and the investigation is ongoing.

Monrovia Police Seek Missing Girl

Monrovia Police are looking for 14-year-old Bertha Calderon, last seen at her apartment in the 500 block of West Foothill Boulevard. She is 5'01", about 100 pounds with brown hair and eyes. Last seen in short sleave black t-shirt and blue jeans. Originally from Pasadena. If you have information, please call Monrovia Police at 256-8000.

- Brad Haugaard

Faulty Part Causing Traffic Jams at Monrovia Rail Crossings

One cause of the traffic jams around the railroad tracks going through Monrovia is a faulty part in the traffic gate controller. The part is manufactured by Siemens and was recalled by the company back in December. http://goo.gl/W6pevG

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Council: Study Gold Line Traffic Problems; Park Smoking Ban; Educate Council Members; Etc.

At its March 15 meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/u9DY3R ), the Monrovia City Council will consider ...

- Hiring Gibson Transportation Consulting, Inc., for $12,000 to study "the impact of the Gold Line on the traffic flow at key intersections." http://goo.gl/teS3cy

- Establishing a ban on smoking in public parks. http://goo.gl/KLRvYW

- Spending $10,000 to educate and train city council members. http://goo.gl/FRQmf3

- Adding Station Square Park (at the train station) to the list of city designated parks. http://goo.gl/QPCDaz

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Sakura Asian Kitchen


Dinner at Sakura Asian Kitchen, a sushi place in the shopping center at the corner of May and Foothill. Got the Bento Box A dinner for $16.95 and a beer for $3.95. The dinner came with miso soup and a salad. We also got some sushi, not shown here. Really excellent meal. ! I'm  surprised this place isn't busier because it certainly deserves it.

- Brad Haugaard

Gold Line Tips

Some tips on using the Gold Line and how the train and buses interact (thanks to Dennis Sanchez): http://goo.gl/u0w8b7

Comment: I've been giving the train a workout this week and am enjoying it more and more. I think I may check traffic before I leave home and if it is clear, I'll drive, and if not, take the train. Or maybe I'll just take the train. Love trains.


- Brad Haugaard

Shuttle Service from Monrovia Library to Station Square

Schedule for weekend shuttle service starting this Friday between the Library (on Lime) and Station Square. Every Friday and Saturday from 5-10 p.m. It'll cost a dollar. Here's the schedule:


Monrovia Police: Shoplifting; Catalytic Converter Stolen; Girlfriend Battered; Pushing Woman in Shower

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

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 395 service events, resulting in 59 investigations.

Petty Theft – Suspect Arrested
March 8 at 1:32 p.m., an officer responded to a business in the 500 block of West Huntington regarding a shoplifter in custody. A male adult was detained by loss prevention for stealing merchandise. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Petty Theft – Suspect Arrested
March 8 at 2:20 p.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 600 block of West Huntington regarding a shoplifter in custody. A male adult was stopped by the store manager outside of the store after he concealed a Polaroid tablet in his waistband and left the store without paying. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Grand Theft Investigation
March 8 at 7:53 p.m., a grand theft incident was reported in the 100 block of Madison. The victim had left their residence and was away for four days. When they returned to the home, they discovered the catalytic converter had been stolen off of their parked vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence Investigation
March 8 at 10:25 p.m., Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department deputies called and reported they were in the 400 block East Pamela in Duarte with the female victim of a battery. The victim stated she had been battered by her boyfriend near the corner of Duarte and Myrtle in Monrovia. The boyfriend was not at the scene. Monrovia officers arrived and took over the battery investigation. The investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
March 9 at 9:06 a.m., officers responded to the 100 block of Garfield regarding a domestic dispute between a male and female subject. The female victim was in the shower and refused to give the male suspect a ride to work. The male suspect broke the door and pushed the female. He then left the location and went to work. The male was eventually arrested at his place of work and was taken into custody.

Trader Joe's Pistachios Recalled

Pistachios sold by Monrovia-based Trader Joe's and other markets are being recalled after reports of salmonella. http://goo.gl/ddQMpk

- Brad Haugaard

Free Screening of Film, Robot & Frank

A free screening of the Sundance Film Festival Winner, Robot & Frank, Saturday, March 19, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Monrovia Public Library. Plus, light refreshments, information about aging resources. To reserve free tickets call 205-4308, email movie@monroviaproviders.org



- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Garden Club Tea Party

Monrovia Garden Club Annual Tea Party, March 22 at 7 p.m. with social time at 6:30 p.m. in Fellowship Hall at First Presbyterian Church at Foothill and Myrtle. Theme is a "Tea-Story." There will be a forum for participants to share a tea story, which may include a special teapot, tea items or experience. Tea, refreshments, and homemade goodies will be available. Participants should bring a tea cup or mug and any food items, teas or coffee they would like to share.

Stock in Monrovia's AeroVironment Jumps Up


The stock of Monrovia-based drone maker, AeroVironment, jumped 6.09% today, to $28.20, after announcing that it had beaten analysts' estimates. http://goo.gl/J3bl0U

- Brad Haugaard

7th Annual Monrovia Area Partnership Neighborhood Conference


MAP is a partnership of residents, agencies and city departments, joining unique skills, knowledge and expertise to make Monrovia a strong and vibrant community. Since 2006,  MAP has worked year round to develop and promote programs that enhance public trust,  practice effective problem solving and educate residents on the subjects of neighborhood  safety and community pride.

This event only comes once a year and it’s not to be missed.  Be sure to save your spot by registering early and tell your friends to do the same. At the Conference, participants will  enjoy free food, workshops, an information/health fair and small group discussions with other  residents, community leaders, city staff and local organizations. This event is on Saturday, April 23, 2016 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.. It's free, fun and a  great way to be part of Team Monrovia!

Join us to celebrate our community and learn about all the ways we continue to work together for a stronger Monrovia.  Register today to save your spot in workshops like:


  • Achieving Renewal for Monrovia
  • How to Grow a Vegetable Garden
  • Coffee with a Cop
  • Examining our Snack Foods
  • Drought Tolerant Landscaping
  • ChangeMakers & The Monrovia Legacy Project and much more!


To find out more or register for the Conference, visit https://goo.gl/cenAe3, call 932- 5563 or e-mail map@ci.monrovia.ca.us

While the MAP Neighborhood Conference is being offered free of charge, registration is recommended. Register online at cityofmonrovia.org or in person at the following locations:  Monrovia City Hall, Monrovia Community Center or the Monrovia Public Library. For more  information, you can also call Neighborhood Services Staff at (626) 932-5563.

Source: City of Monrovia press release

- Brad Haugaard

Rain Coming to Monrovia | Big Opening Day for Gold Line

~ 90% chance of rain for Monrovia this Friday and 60% chance on Monday. https://goo.gl/0qMTb8

~ The Gold Line estimates that there were about 30,000 riders on its opening day, Saturday, March 5, free-ride day.

- Brad Haugaard

Taking the Train to Work

I took the train to work in Pasadena today, from the Monrovia station to Memorial Park station. Parking is free at the Monrovia station and parking slots are nice and wide. 

It was standing room only when I got on the train about 7:35 or so and I stood all the way to Pasadena. (Metro reported later that the Irwindale parking garage was packed by 7 a.m. I believe it.) Otherwise, the ride was beautiful. At exactly 45 minutes door to door, it took about 10 to 15 minutes longer than by car, but on the other hand, no battling traffic. On the way home (I left at 5:08) it was crowded but I had no trouble finding a seat. It took 41 minutes door to door - pretty close to driving time.

My one complaint is with the Tap card ticketing system. It is far better than when I took the train from the Sierra Madre Villa station several years ago, but is still pretty poor. It appears Metro knows how poor its system is because it had an employee helping people figure out how to use it. I would have held up the line for ten minutes if I'd had to do it myself. As I walked up in the morning a woman finishing said to the Metro employee, "Pretty confusing." Indeed it is. Unlike the last time I used the system, at least this time there were some instructions, but they are unhelpfully placed AFTER you encounter the machines. You could decipher them to guess (I'm still not sure this is true) that you don't exactly buy a ticket to a destination but I think you buy for a certain amount of time... maybe just  one way. Very confusing but I'm sure you get used to it.

Anyway, I had a good time overall, but then I love trains. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Art Show in Monrovia



A tour of some of the finest California and US artists on Wednesday, March 16 at John Moran Auctioneers, 145 E. Walnut Ave., in Monrovia, with wine and hors d'oeuvres by The Kitchen for Exploring Food. The event will benefit the at-risk teen art workshop program of Monrovia Association of Fine Arts and the Make a Difference Day outreach of the Volunteer Center of San Gabriel Valley. Art work will span the last century and each attendee will receive an auction catalogue and will be able to preview the sale. Tickets are $50 at www.moranprivatepreview.eventbrite.com or at the door. For more information contact Christine Geltz at 483-0560 or at christine@monroviafinearts.org.

- Brad Haugaard

Fixing Train-Caused Traffic Problems; Monrovia Days Parade Returning; Easter Egg Hunt; Etc.

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

~ The city and Metro have been working to fix the "tremendous traffic impacts" associated with new train service. Chi says top priority is that, "The train stop arms need to function correctly." And, "We also need to develop better traffic signal light coordination, which is a more complex issue that requires coordination between the City, Metro, LA County, and CalTrans."

~ Monrovia Days Parade will return as part of Monrovia Days this year., May 13-15. Community activities May 13, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.; parade Saturday, May 14 at 9 a.m.; music May 15, noon to 7 p.m. in Library Park.

~ The Library Board is hosting a planning meeting on Sunday, March 13, at 2 p.m. at the Community Center (119 West Palm Avenue) to develop a strategic plan for the library.

~ The unveiling of a new mural "that incorporates art, books, recycling, and whimsical fun" will be on Friday, March 11, at 6 p.m. at the Monrovia Public Library. Light refreshments.


~ Easter Egg Hunt and Healthy Kids Day Event at Recreation Park on Saturday, March 26. To participate, make sure you show up at Recreation Park when registration begins at 9:45 a.m.

~ Monrovia Area Partnership's Care for Your Neighbor Program helped a senior couple fix up their property at 222 East Cypress Ave. The couple's health had prevented them from maintaining the property themselves.

~ Teen Movie Mania Night on Friday, March 11, from 7-9 p.m. Sixth to 12th graders can enjoy popcorn and snacks while watching. Call the Monrovia Public Library at 256-8274, to find out the name of the movie.

~ Monrovia is accepting nominations for the Monrovia 2016 Older American of the Year Award, presented to a Monrovian 60 years or older who is involved in volunteer services for our community. Suggest a nominee to Rebecca Sandoval at 256-8246 or rsandoval@ci.monrovia.ca.us.

- Brad Haugaard

Women's Evensong at St. Luke's

St. Luke's Episcopal Church will present its ninth Women's Evensong Invitational on Sunday, March 20, at 4 p.m. at the church, 122 South California Avenue at Foothill Boulevard in Monrovia. Music will include Suscepit Israel (the trio from Bach's Magnificat) and the premiere of the Monrovia Preces and Responses by Kent Bennett Jones. Mezzo soprano Sarah Reynolds will be the cantor, and St. Luke's Deacon Ann Dumolt will be the officiant. A freewill offering will be taken, and a wine and cheese reception will follow.

Monrovia Police: Busted for Cigarette Lighter; Mountain Lion; New-Car Fire; Woman Found; Etc.

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

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

False Gun Scare
March 3 at 12:20 a.m., officers responded to the high school in the 700 block of Colorado regarding a student that possibly had a gun in his backpack. Officers detained the student to determine if there was a gun. The investigation revealed the student had a cigarette lighter that was shaped like a gun. The student received a citation for the lighter.

Critical Missing Adult Located
March 3 at 8:00 p.m., the family of an 88-year-old female contacted Monrovia Police Department to report her missing. The subject left her residence in the 200 block of West Evergreen Avenue at 4:00 p.m. in her vehicle and had not returned. The subject has minor dementia, is diabetic and takes medication. The subject does not usually drive at night and becomes disoriented. An area check was made for the subject and local hospitals were checked, but the subject was not located. A Silver Alert was put out on Freeway signs through the California Highway Patrol, all Southern California law enforcement agencies were notified, and the subject was entered into the missing person’s database, along with her vehicle information.

On March 4 at approximately 3:00 p.m., the critical missing subject was found in Newport Beach and was reunited with her family.

Mountain Lion Sighting
March 3 at 11:09 p.m., officers were dispatched to the report of a mountain lion carrying a domestic cat in the area of Stedman and Scenic. The mountain lion was located north of the reported area. Officers were able to confirm that it was an adult female mountain lion. The mountain lion was persuaded to go north, back into the hills.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
March 4 at 2:25 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the area of Monterey and Bonita when he observed a vehicle commit a vehicle code violation. The officer conducted a traffic stop and contacted the driver. He immediately noticed signs of intoxication. The driver was determined to be driving under the influence and was arrested. The driver was held for sobering.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
March 5 at 8:28 p.m., an officer observed a suspicious male and female looking into a parked vehicle in the 900 block of Fifth Avenue. Officers contacted the subjects, who were now sitting in a vehicle. Investigation revealed one of the subjects was in possession of smoking paraphernalia; she was arrested and taken into custody. The subject was booked and later released with a citation to appear in court.

Vehicle Fire
March 6 at 1:12 a.m., a resident in the 500 block of Diamond called to report his vehicle was on fire in his driveway. Officers responded and located the vehicle, which was fully engulfed in flames and parked near the garage. The intense flames were near the roof of the structure. Officers used two fire extinguishers to hold down the flames until the Monrovia Fire Department arrived. The vehicle was recently purchased and had been parked at the location for several hours prior to catching fire. The quick reactions of the officers kept the home from catching fire. The vehicle was a complete loss; the cause is believed to be an electrical malfunction.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
March 6 at 8:36 a.m., officers responded to the 100 block of Montana regarding a domestic dispute. When they arrived, they determined a male and female adult were involved in an argument. During the argument, the male struck the female in the face with an open palm. The male subject was arrested for domestic battery.

Metro Line Reopens | Limiting Monrovia Home Size | Day of Prayer

~ If you are thinking of taking the Gold Line to work today, service from Monrovia is operational again, according to a Twitter post by Metro. Service on the track was halted on the first day of paid service (Sunday) after a semi crashed through the freeway barrier into the track area. Metro tweets: "GOLD LINE: Resumes normal weekday service; minor inbound speed restriction in repair segment near SMV."

~ The Monrovia Planning Commission will hold a study session this Wednesday at 6 p.m. to consider a set of regulations that would reduce the size of new home construction in the city. (Agenda: http://goo.gl/PMGzMP ). And here are the details of the plan: http://goo.gl/h1xU62

~ All community "National Day of Prayer Program" sponsored by the Interfaith Council of Monrovia on May 5 from 7 to 8 p.m. at Mountainside Communion Church - 303 West Colorado Blvd. Finger-food reception following. Any donations taken will go to Foothill Unity. For information call 804-3494.

Monrovia School Board Meeting

At its March 9 meeting, the Monrovia Board of Education will honor the Monrovia High Boys and Girls Varsity Soccer teams and coaches as Rio Hondo League champions, and honor students who participated in the First District PTA Reflections Competition. Also, among other things, it will consider naming the baseball field at Monrovia High as the "Dave Moore Baseball Field." Agenda: here

- Brad Haugaard

Full Train Service Comes to Monrovia

First train rolls in to Monrovia. 

The first full-service train arrived at the new Monrovia station at 12:11 p.m today, heading into LA.. Rides as far as Union Station and back are free today until midnight. Also, information  booths and live music. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police Officers Association Appreciates Trump Police Comments

The Monrovia Police Officers Association (the police union), while emphasizing that it is "NOT" an endorsement of Donald Trump, tweets that it supports his comments (in a video) about the need to respect police officers: https://goo.gl/uL9Nq8

- Brad Haugaard

Train Station Audio Art Tour and Book; Missing Woman; 'Parchment' Opens; Women in Government

~ If you take a free Gold Line ride tomorrow you can listen to an audio description of the art work at the various stations that you'll see along the way. Here: http://goo.gl/Xl1JCc

~ Also, the Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority has released "Art of the Journey: the Foothill Gold Line," a commemorative book describing the artwork and artists of the 11.5-mile, six-station light rail project.

~ Police are seeking Mary Cerchio, a missing 88-year-old Monrovia woman. http://goo.gl/rUOmJ2 (Update: Found in Newport Beach: http://goo.gl/Ud5mPx )

~ The former Friends Cafe on Myrtle has reopened as "Parchment," still serving coffee. http://goo.gl/AOhhdS

~ This month, Women's History Month, the Monrovia Library will have displays honoring women in public service and government.

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Cafe Mundial


Dinner last night at Cafe Mundial, on the east side of Myrtle north of Colorado. Got the Seared Ahi (tuna) for $22, and a beer for $7  It came with bread and humus dip. Elegant, and food was fine. 
  
- Brad Haugaard

Free Ride on Gold Line This Saturday - 12 to 12

Reminder: Free rides on the Gold Line into downtown LA (and back) starting from noon until midnight on March 5. A nice Q&A here: http://goo.gl/82kwB7 . Also, ribbon cutting on March 5 for Monrovia Gold Line Station at 11:30 a.m. for the first day of public train service. Also, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. - Music, crafts, games, booths, giveaways, food, trackless train rides. Free shuttle between Old Town Monrovia and Station Square. Noon - Live entertainment begins by the band, Person to Person.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Brandishing Knife at Skateboarder; Cash Taken From Unlocked Vehicle; Drugs; Alcohol

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for February 29 – March 2. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 427 service events, During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 427 service events, resulting in 60 investigations.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance/Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
February 29 at 9:27 p.m., an officer responded to a business in the 400 block of West Huntington. Staff at the business reported that a subject was possibly using drugs inside their restroom. Officers arrived and contacted the subject, who admitted he had drug needles in his possession. He was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia and being under the influence of a controlled substance.

Theft of Vehicle Parts
March 1 at 8:36 a.m., an officer was dispatched to a business in the 400 block of West Evergreen regarding a theft of vehicle parts. The suspect entered the work yard and used tools to remove a 52 inch LED light bar from the top of one of the trucks in the lot. The employees were working inside the building during the theft. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
March 1 at 7:34 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported at a business parking lot in the 700 block of East Huntington. The victim arrived at the parking lot and went into the gym to work out. When she returned to her vehicle approximately an hour later, she found that someone had punched the driver side door lock to open her truck. She discovered a pair of sunglasses were missing from her vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Brandishing a Weapon
March 2 at 4:30 p.m., officers responded to a skate park in the 800 block of East Olive on the report of an altercation where a male adult brandished a pocket knife at a skateboarder. Officers arrived and determined the subject brandished the knife from a distance. The subject was interviewed and displayed behavior of mental illness. He was taken to a local facility and held for a 72-hour mental evaluation. The subject does not reside in Monrovia.

Grand Theft from Vehicle
March 2 at 6:17 p.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported at a hotel parking lot in the 900 block of South Fifth Avenue. The victim was checking into the hotel two days ago. While she was checking in with the office, someone took cash from her unlocked vehicle. She delayed reporting the theft because she thought she had just misplaced the money. The investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
March 2 at 10:18 p.m., an intoxicated subject was reported at a business in the 300 block of West Huntington. He was following employees around in the parking lot. An officer arrived and arrested the male adult subject, who was determined to be too intoxicated to care for himself. He was held for a sobering period.

Possession of a Controlled Substance/Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
March 3 at 12:43 a.m., a citizen called police to report a male adult subject running in the street at Palm and Ivy, acting unusual. Officers arrived and saw the subject throw something onto the ground. The subject was detained. An officer located an object containing a white powder substance on the ground near the subject. A search of the subject revealed a baggie containing what the officer believed to be a controlled substance. The suspect was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and being under the influence of a controlled substance. The substance tested positive for cocaine.

The Diplomat Restaurant Opening in Monrovia

Old Town merchant Pam Fitzpatrick reports that a new restaurant, called The Diplomat, will open on East Lemon (where Bull Taco was) in about three weeks. http://goo.gl/AQr9Va

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's Staar Surgical Doing Better

Monrovia-based STAAR Surgical, a manufacturer and marketer of implantable lenses and delivery systems for the eye, is reporting a full year net loss for 2015 of $0.17 per share vs. prior year net Loss of $0.22 per share. For the fourth quarter the net loss was $0.02 per share vs. a net loss of $0.07 per share for the same period in 2014. http://goo.gl/aeOWiY

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Boys and Girls Club Open House


Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills invites community members to visit this Monday, March 7, during its open house.  Tour the facilities and learn more about the club's life-changing work with youth. 3:30-6 p.m., 600 S. Shamrock Ave. RSVP to anavar@foothillsbgc.org

- Brad Haugaard

KGEM Gets Big Donation From Monrovia's Mt. Sierra College

Monrovia's Mt. Sierra College has just given KGEM TV the largest donation the cable television station has ever received - $60,000, to implement a collaboration between the station and Mt. Sierra College film students. http://goo.gl/PJqatk

Skylights at Station Square; Monrovia Bucks Upward Crime Trend; Honorees; Baseball Field Improvements


In his weekly update ( http://goo.gl/F5q8Ee ), City Manager Oliver Chi reports that ...

~ Skylights (city photo above) were installed last week at the Station Square Bandshell.

~ For 2015 California suffered a dramatic increase in crime rates for both violent and property crimes, but Monrovia "experienced no increase in our violent crime rates, and a 2% decrease in property crime rates."

~ Monrovia Station Square Project and City Council Member Gloria Crudgington will be honored at the California Association of Park and Recreation Commissioners & Board Members  awards event on March 10 in Long Beach. Station Square won the group's 2016 Outstanding Project Award and Crudgington won the President's Award for chairing the Measure A and Measure B Committee that resulted in the creation of the Hillside Wilderness Preserve. Comment: It would be nice if the city would finally open the Cloverleaf gate and let the citizens who paid for the thing actually enjoy it. A 16-year wait is FAR too long, but I'm hopeful the gate will be open soon.

~ The city and Monrovia Youth Baseball League have been making improvements to Barney Glenn Baseball Field at Recreation Park.

- Brad Haugaard