Dinner at Jake's Roadhouse


Had dinner last night at Jake's Roadhouse on the east side of Myrtle just a bit north of Olive. Got the tri-tip dinner, which comes with two sides, for $19.95, and a large beer for $7.50. Food was good and filling.
- Brad Haugaard 

Walking Tour of Old Monrovia

Monrovia Historic Preservation Group will conduct a walking tour of downtown Monrovia on Saturday, Oct. 8 at 10 a.m. The tour lasts about two hours, and participants will walk eight blocks. $5 per person. Reservations not necessary, just meet at the SE corner of Palm and Myrtle Avenues.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Hit With Crowbar and Stabbed; Domestic Violence; Drugs; Thefts of and From Vehicles; Drunk Driving

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

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 456 service events, resulting in 73 investigations.

Grand Theft Auto / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Receiving Stolen Property – Suspect Arrested
September 26 at 9:52 a.m., officers responded to the report of a suspicious vehicle and subject at a gas station in the 700 block of W. Huntington. When officers arrived, the subject exited the vehicle and fled on foot. As the suspect fled, he was taking items from his pockets and throwing them on the ground. Assisting officers arrived and the suspect was detained. The suspect’s vehicle was determined to be stolen and stolen property was found inside the vehicle, along with a large amount of both heroin and methamphetamine. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon – Suspect Arrested
September 27 at 8:28 a.m., officers were dispatched on the report of an assault with a deadly weapon at a storage facility in the 2100 block of S. Myrtle. The victim reported he had been struck with a crowbar and stabbed. Officers located the subject and saw visible facial injuries to the victim. He identified the suspect, who was located and arrested. The victim was taken to a local hospital for treatment.

Domestic Violence
September 27 at 10:14 p.m., an incident of domestic violence was reported in the 300 block of E. Palm. A male and female subject were involved in an argument and the male subject pushed the female, causing her to fall and sustain injuries to her hand, arm and head. The suspect had left the location prior to officers arriving and could not be located. A wanted person entry was made into the law enforcement system and the investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
September 27 at 10:36 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 300 block of W. Huntington Drive. The victim parked her car in the parking lot of a business and went inside. When she returned to her vehicle, it was gone. The vehicle is a 1991 Honda.

Theft From a Vehicle
September 28 in the early morning hours, police received three reports of theft from unlocked vehicles. The thefts occurred sometime overnight in the 400 block of N. Primrose, the 200 block of W. Scenic and the 200 block of Monroe. In all three incidents the vehicles were ransacked and miscellaneous items were taken. The investigations are continuing.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
September 28 at 9:17 a.m., a suspicious subject was reported in the 800 block of W. Olive. The subject was contacted and found to be in possession of used syringes. He was arrested for being in possession of drug paraphernalia and later released with a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Shoplifting / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
September 28 at 3:56 p.m., a shoplifter was reported at a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain. The suspect entered the business and selected multiple items. He then took the items to the front of the store and returned them. He was given store credit for the merchandise. Officers detained the suspect and a computer check revealed he had warrant for his arrest. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody for the charges.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
September 29 at 3:43 a.m., a motorist called police to report a possible drunk driver in the area of Sixth and Duarte. The driver was swerving from lane to lane. Officers responded and located the vehicle at Eighth and Camino. They stopped the vehicle for vehicle code violations and determined the driver was driving under the influence. The driver was arrested for DUI.

Progress on Hotel for Myrtle and Huntington; Bartlett Memorial Design; Monrovia Library Events

Design for Bartlett Memorial.

In his weekly report ( https://goo.gl/3BHJO7 )  City Manager Oliver Chi reports ...

~ The Tharaldson Hospitality Group is making "good progress" on the proposed Marriott Towneplace Suites Hotel for the southwest corner of Myrtle Avenue and Huntington Drive.

~ The Bob Bartlett Memorial Committee has selected artist, Carole Choucair Oueijan, to design a memorial for the late Monrovia Mayor, Bob Bartlett. The proposed project will be considered by the city council in October.

~ Have thoughts on improving library operations? There will be an open forum on Oct. 8 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the library to discuss this. Questions, call the city at 256-8274.

~ Second- through fifth-grade students can vote for their favorite books between Sept. 28 - Nov. 2, every Wednesday from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the Monrovia Library. Voting is part of a class in which children will hold elections, learn about states, read about presidents, as well as make crafts, and play games. Prizes, tool Those who attend four out of six classes will receive a free book!  Call the Library at 256-8274 for questions.

~ Pajama storytime on Sept. 28 and Oct. 26, at 6:30 p.m. in the Library Storytime Room. Call the Library at 256-8274 for questions.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Fire; Injured Football Player Doing Fine

~ A Monday morning fire in Monrovia caused minor leg injuries to two firefighters and caused about $500.000 damage to four homes, a garage and their contents. https://goo.gl/QaC6BX

~ Monrovia High football player Michael Washington is doing fine after being taken to a hospital after a head and neck injury in Friday's game against Damien. https://goo.gl/7zhziJ

- Brad Haugaard

Astronaut to Speak at Citrus College


Former NASA astronaut and engineer, Jose M. Hernández, the first migrant farm worker to become a NASA astronaut, will be the guest speaker at Citrus College's Haugh Performing Arts Center (1000 W. Foothill Blvd. in Glendora), on Wednesday, Sept. 28 from 2:40-4 p.m. Citrus College serves Monrovia and the talk is free and open to the public.

Hernandez is one of four children born to a Mexican migrant family. He did not learn to speak English until he was 12 years-old and spent most of the year working with his family picking strawberries and cucumbers on California farms.

Hernández completed NASA's astronaut training and has traveled on two space missions where he served as one of two robotic arm operators. He has also taken three space walks and worked on developing quantitative x-ray film imaging analysis techniques for the x-ray laser program at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Fake Gun, Fireworks; Surfboard Stolen; Lying in Parking Lot Smoking; Burglaries; Catalytic Converter; Stolen Ring; Dark Bike

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

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Residential Burglary
September 22 at 8:02 a.m., an officer was dispatched on the report of a residential burglary in the 1500 block of S. Mayflower Avenue. The victim called to report that sometime between 2:00 and 4:30 a.m., someone entered his attached garage and stole items. The investigation is continuing.

Warrant / Altered Imitation Firearm / Possession of Dangerous Fireworks – Suspect Arrested
September 22 at 11:03 a.m., a suspicious subject was reported in the 2700 block of S. Peck Road. Officers responded and contacted the subject, who was seated in a parked vehicle, attempting to hide from the officers. A computer check revealed the subject had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. He was also found to be in possession of a modified replica firearm and fireworks. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
September 22 at 2:23 p.m., a disturbing subject was reported in the 800 block of W. Colorado. The subject was causing a disturbance in front of the high school. Officers made contact and determined the suspect was too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested and held for a sobering period. He was later released from custody with a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Residential Burglary
September 22 at 4:24 p.m., an officer responded to the report of a residential burglary in the 1000 block of E. Lemon. The home had been burglarized sometime between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. The investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft
September 23 at 9:09 a.m., a petty theft was reported in the 500 block of Norumbega Road. The victim left his surfboard and wetsuit on his porch overnight to dry. When he returned the next morning, he discovered someone had stolen his property. The investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
September 23 at 9:33 a.m., an officer responded to the report of a male subject lying in the middle of a parking lot in the 900 block of W. Huntington, smoking a cigarette. Officers contacted the subject and determined he was too intoxicated to care for himself. The subject was arrested for public intoxication and held for a sobering period.

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
September 23 at 9:53 a.m., a business owner in the 700 block of W. Huntington Drive called police to report a subject that was causing a disturbance at his business and was refusing to leave. Officers arrived and contacted the subject. He was arrested for trespassing. The suspect was later released with a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
September 23 at 3:55 p.m., a shoplifter was reported at a business in the 100 block of W. Foothill. The suspect stole merchandise from the business. Officers arrived and located the suspect. He was placed under citizen’s arrest and taken into custody.

Residential Burglary
September 23 at 11:38 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a residence in the 500 block of Bradbury Road on the report of a residential burglary. The resident arrived home after being away from the residence for two weeks to find the home had been burglarized. It appears the suspect removed a swamp cooler from the window to gain entry to the home. Items of jewelry were taken. The investigation is continuing.

Theft
September 24 at 10:50 a.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 200 block of S. Shamrock Avenue. The victim called to report his catalytic converter was stolen from his vehicle sometime during the night. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
September 24 at 6:23 p.m., a grand theft was reported at a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington. The suspect entered the business and asked to look at the best wedding ring in the jewelry department. Once the clerk handed the ring to the suspect, he took the ring and ran out of the store to a waiting vehicle. A second suspect was driving the vehicle, a white Toyota Tercel. An area search for the suspects was conducted, but they were not located. The investigation is continuing

Traffic Collision
September 25 at 8:12 p.m., officers responded to a traffic collision in the 1700 block of S. Mayflower. A vehicle was making a right turn onto Mayflower from Genoa and struck a bicyclist who was traveling on the wrong side of the road with no headlight in the darkness. The bicyclist complained of pain to her arm and neck. She was taken to a hospital for treatment.

Monrovia Predicted to Reach 107 Degrees

A blazing 107 degrees in Monrovia predicted for today. https://goo.gl/0qMTb8

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia School Board to Consider Compensation for Superintendent

At its Sept. 28 meeting ( info here ), the Monrovia Board of Education will consider giving Superintendent Katherine Thorossian an annual salary of $239,213 for the 2016-2017 school year, which includes $10,000 that is paid each year as long as her rating remains "above satisfactory" for the previous year. Plus annual salary increases and benefits.

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Rigo's Mexican Food


Dinner last night at Rigo's Mexican Food at Foothill and Mayflower. Got a beef burrito for $11.95 and a bottle of beer for $4.95. It was fine.

- Brad Haugaard 

Who Knew? A 'Monrovia' Boot

There's a "Monrovia Boot" for sale at Nordstrom. For women. Only $244.95. Hopefully you get two boots for that price. https://goo.gl/3otq0V

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Copper Pipe; Baseball Through School District Window; Robbed of Bike; Stolen Vehicles; Man Comes to Police Station to be Arrested

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

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 445 service events, resulting in 83 investigations.

Attempt Grand Theft
September 19 at 6:48 a.m., residents at an apartment complex in the 1000 block of Royal Oaks reported that someone attempted to remove and take copper piping from the complex, which caused flooding. The investigation is continuing.

Vandalism
September 19 at 7:18 a.m., a vandalism incident was reported at the school district office in the 300 block of E. Huntington. It was reported that someone threw a baseball bat through an office window sometime during the night. The investigation is continuing.

Theft From a Vehicle
September 19 at 8:14 a.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 1000 block of E. Lemon. The victim called to report that someone entered her unlocked vehicle sometime during the night. The vehicle was ransacked and it was unknown if anything was taken. The investigation is continuing.

Strong-arm Robbery – Suspect Arrested
September 19 at 2:47 p.m., officers responded to the report of a strong-arm robbery in the area of Magnolia and the railroad tracks. The victim stated that he had just been assaulted and the suspect took his bicycle. Officers detained the suspect in the 1800 block of S. Mayflower and the bike was recovered. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Theft of Vehicle Registration Tabs
September 19 at 9:24 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 700 block of E. Huntington when he saw a male subject crouched down behind a parked vehicle and there was a female subject with him. As the officer approached, the male subject ran. The officer requested assistance and he followed the suspect in his police unit. The suspect tripped in the area of Huntington and Mountain and was detained by officers. Further investigation revealed the suspect is a gang member and was crouching down removing the registration tabs from a vehicle when the officer saw him and attempted to detain him. The female suspect left the area and was not identified.

Grand Theft Auto Recovery
September 19 at 9:57 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 900 block of W. Huntington when he saw a parked vehicle that looked abandoned. A computer check of the license plate revealed the vehicle was reported stolen on August 26. The vehicle did not appear damaged and the owner was notified.

Vehicle Burglary
September 20 at 12:49 p.m., the owner of the business in the 800 block of Royal Oaks reported that one of his vehicles had been broken into over the weekend. It was unknown if anything was stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
September 21 at 8:07 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 800 block of E. Foothill. The victim reported that her silver, two-door, 2000 Honda Civic had been stolen sometime during the night. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
September 21 at 9:09 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of N. Primrose called police to report his garage had been burglarized. Several items were taken. The investigation is continuing.

Theft From a Vehicle
September 21 at 10:03 a.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 400 block of Parkrose. The victim reported that items were taken out of his unlocked vehicle sometime during the night.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered – Suspect Arrested
September 21 at 11:01 a.m., an officer on patrol located a stolen vehicle parked in the 200 block of Montana with two occupants inside. The officer requested assistance and the occupants were detained. The male driver had two no-bail warrants for his arrest. He was arrested for the outstanding warrants and grand theft auto. The female passenger was eventually released.

Hit and Run Investigation / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
September 21 at 4:02 p.m., while investigating a hit and run traffic collision, officers discovered the suspect in the case had a warrant for his arrest. They called the suspect and asked him to come to the station, which he did. He was then arrested for the outstanding warrant. The hit and run investigation is continuing.

Monrovia's AeroVironment - Among Biggest Gainers Today


The stock of Monrovia's AeroVironment Inc. was one of the biggest gainers on the Russell 2000 index today, Sept. 21. The stock jumped 6.63 percent, to $25.24. https://goo.gl/3WXLpl

- Brad Haugaard

Wild Rose Teacher Named One of County's Teachers of the Year

Monrovia Teacher, Jennifer Tubbs from Wild Rose Elementary School, has been named an LA County District Teacher of the Year. https://goo.gl/GCdVmg

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia City Council Opposes Prop 57

The Monrovia City Council has come out in opposition to Proposition 57, which the city says would allow dangerous criminals to be released early. The argument against the measure is that while the proposition says it does not apply to "violent" criminals, it does not define "violent," and thus would rely on the California Penal Code for the definition. But a number of crimes that most people would consider violent, such as assault with a deadly weapon, are classified by the penal code as "serious," and so those convicted of these "serious" crimes would be eligible for early release. Here is the full statement: https://goo.gl/qh5NL0

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Council Approves Trail Improvements; Tasty City Manager

At the Monrovia City Council meeting tonight:

~ The council approved hiring the Pokrajac Corporation (the low bidder) to make improvements to the trail system in the Hillside Wilderness Area before opening the entry point on Cloverleaf. Outlined here: https://goo.gl/JcCy8Q

~ Quote of the night: Council member Gloria Crudgington, speaking of a well-received talk by City Manager Oliver Chi on storm water treatment, said Chi "is beginning to look like a tasty appetizer on a tray." She means other cities might want to hire him away. A colorful way of putting it, and I agree with her evaluation.

- Brad Haugaard

Halloween in Monrovia; Side by Side; Taste of Old Town; Make a Difference; Arts Show; Etc.

In his weekly report ( https://goo.gl/AY8Xvu ), City Manager Oliver Chi reports ...

~ Old Town Trick-or-Treat on Monday, Oct. 31, from 3 to 6 p.m., in Old Town and at Library Park. Trick-or-Treating in Old Town; Youth, adult and group costume contests; Dog Costume Contest. Registration beginning at 3 p.m.

~ Trick-or-Treating in Canyon Park, Oct. 31, from 6 to 8 p.m. Park Rangers will guide participants along a portion of the Canyon Park Waterfall Trail. Along the way, you'll meet costumed Park Rangers with treats to all who dare to participate. For details contact the Public Services Department at 256-8246.

~ Side by Side by Sondheim at the Taylor Performing Arts Center (Monrovia High auditorium) Dec. 2-4. "A sparkling retrospective of musical numbers from shows as diverse as Follies, Company, A Little Night Music, Pacific Overtures, and Sweeney Todd." Details and tickets: https://goo.gl/uHb4Bv

~ A Taste of Old Town Monrovia, sponsored and coordinated by the Kiwanis Club, is set for October 9, from 5 to 8 p.m. in Old Town. Tickets are $50 in advance, $60 at the door. Details: http://www.tastemonrovia.com/.

~ Make a Difference Day will take place on Saturday, Oct. 22, from 8 a.m. to noon. Kick-off at Library Park. Projects include: Cleanup alley in Old Town; plant trees at Monrovia parks; pick up cigarette butts in parks; sort food and youth activity program (hosted by Foothill Unity Center); Church clean-up hosted by Bethel AME Church; Monrovia High baseball field improvements. Details: Volunteer Center of the San Gabriel Valley - http://www.vcsgv.org.

~ 53rd Celebrate the Arts Show & Chalkfest by Monrovia Association of Fine Arts on Oct. 29-30 at Library Park. Theme is Art in Motion and featured artists will be Steve and Marianne McCarthy. On Saturday, Oct. 29, activities are from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday's events are from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Details: http://www.monroviafinearts.org/ or 483-0560.

~ Monrovia City Council Member Spicer has been selected to serve on the Board of Directors of the Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills.

~ If you want to vote early, Monrovia will be participating in the Vote by Mail Ballot Drop-Off Program. Drop off your ballot at Monrovia City Hall beginning on October 11.

~ Monrovia Public Library is setting up a Veteran's Resource Center. Want to help? Get in touch with Mabel Cross at mcross@ci.monrovia.ca.us, or 256-8294. The Library will provide training.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Talking on Her Credit Card; Suspect Reports His Car Stolen; Drunks and Drugs; Paint on His Fingers; Etc.

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

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
September 15 at 8:08 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 300 block of S. Mountain regarding a subject acting erratic and throwing objects. The officers arrived and determined the subject was under the influence of drugs. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence / Hit and Run Traffic Collision / Weapon Offense – Suspects Arrested
September 15 at 11:10 p.m., an officer was on patrol when he observed a vehicle driving north on California crash into a pole as it crossed the train tracks. Both the driver and passenger exited the vehicle and fled east, along the train tracks. Officers detained both suspects at Shamrock and the tracks. The driver was found to be intoxicated and a weapon was found in the vehicle. Both suspects were arrested.

Driving Under the Influence / Evading a Peace Officer – Suspect Arrested
September 16 at 12:19 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 2600 block of S. Peck on the report of a possible drunk driver. As officers were responding to the location, they saw the driver heading north without any headlights. The officers attempted to stop the vehicle for the violation, but the vehicle failed to yield and continued driving. The driver eventually yielded at a dead end street by his residence. The driver was found to be driving under the influence and was arrested.

Theft of Package
September 16 at 2:58 p.m., a theft of mail was reported in the 1800 block of S. Fifth Avenue. The victim reported that he was notified a package was delivered by UPS to his residence. When he arrived home, the package was gone. The investigation is continuing.

Burglary / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
September 16 at 8:57 p.m., a business in the 100 block of W. Foothill called police to report a shoplifter that fled the location. Officers responded and conducted an area search. The suspect was located and detained in the 200 block of W. Palm. The suspect also had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested for both the burglary and the warrant.

Public Intoxication / Vandalism – Suspect Arrested
September 17 at 1:30 a.m., officers were on patrol in the downtown area. One of the officers heard glass breaking and saw an intoxicated female who looked like she was talking on her phone. She had her hand up to her ear, but upon closer inspection, the officer saw she had a credit card to her ear and her cell phone was on the ground. She then threw an object at the glass window of a business, causing damage. She was arrested and taken into custody for being drunk in public and vandalism.

Traffic Offense / Evading a Police Officer – Suspect Arrested
September 18 at 3:59 a.m., an officer attempted to stop a vehicle for a vehicle code violation in the area of California and Cypress. The vehicle failed to yield, accelerating through numerous red lights and stop signs, before stopping his vehicle and fleeing on foot. The suspect was identified by the pursuing officer and the vehicle was impounded. A wanted person’s entry was made into the law enforcement system for his arrest. At 8:14 p.m., the suspect called police asking how he could get his car out of impound, claiming that his vehicle was stolen. He came to the police department and filed a grand theft auto report, claiming an unknown person had stolen his vehicle. After signing the CHP form reporting his vehicle was stolen, the suspect was arrested for making a false report and for evading a police officer.

Vandalism / False Information / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
September 19 at 1:35 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 200 block of Kruse regarding three subjects painting graffiti on a vehicle. The officers arrived and detained three subjects, two males and a female. One of the male subjects was a minor. The male adult suspect who painted the graffiti on the vehicle was identified by the victim. A can of spray paint was recovered and the suspect had fresh paint on his fingers. The suspect was arrested and charged with vandalism, contributing to the delinquency of a minor and giving false information. It was later determined through fingerprints that the suspect gave a false name to police and he also had an outstanding warrant for his arrest.

'Computer Cost Recovery' Fee Added to Monrovia Business License

On my Monrovia Business License renewal form I noticed a $5 charge for "Computer Cost Recovery." I asked about it and was told it went into effect on July 1 of this year and is "to assist with the new software program for business license tracking."

- Brad Haugaard

Opening of Wilderness Preserve Trail Delayed For Trail Improvements


Red shows the proposed trail. Blue shows a steep portion of the trail with sharp switchbacks which will be improved. Yellow shows the existing trail. In an interview Chi said the yellow trail would not be shut off to hikers and bicyclists, but they would be encouraged to follow the new red path.

City Manager Oliver Chi reports that the opening of the Cloverleaf entry point to the Hillside Wilderness Preserve will be delayed from four to six weeks, bringing the opening date to late October of this year. At the council's April 5 meeting, at which the city purchased rights of way to obtain access to the preserve, Chi said it could take up to six months to open the gate.

At this Tuesday's meeting ( https://goo.gl/wqksZB ) the City Council will consider a proposal by residents who live in the Wilderness Preserve to delay the opening of the gate until trail improvements can be made so some of the trail traffic could be diverted around the residents homes. In an interview, Chi said city staff is agreeable to the delay in part to minimize the risk of legal complications.

The staff report ( https://goo.gl/lq1wI8 ) says: "[I]t has been estimated that the trail system improvements can be completed in 4-6 weeks following the award of a contract. This would mean that the opening of both the Cloverleaf Access Point and the Ridgeside Access Point would occur towards the end of October 2016."

City staff is proposing hiring Pokrajac Corporation for $194,235 to finish the trail work. The required funding is available in the restricted Hillside Wilderness Preserve Fund.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Council to Meet Again on Legal Threat from MALDEV

The city council will hold another closed session, on Tuesday, Sept. 20, to discuss the threat by the Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Fund to sue the City if it doesn't switch from at-large elections to district-based elections. https://goo.gl/XG6RLZ

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at T Burger


Dinner last night at T Burger, on Foothill just east of Magnolia. Got a chicken sandwich for $5.99 and an iced tea for $1.98. Tasty. 

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia High Over Maranatha

Monrovia High Girl's Volleyball wins over Maranatha. https://goo.gl/n1z7OH

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Stealing Cologne; Fake $20s; Beanbag Persuades Bear to Leave; Disoriented With Warrants; Etc.

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

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 439 service events, resulting in 102 investigations.

Grand Theft Auto Recovered
September 12 at 8:21 a.m., officers were on patrol in the 100 block of E. Lime when they located a stolen vehicle parked on the street. The vehicle was reported stolen out of Temple City. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
September 12 at 10:03 a.m., a grand theft was reported at a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington. The theft occurred on September 10, sometime between 9 and 10 p.m. Several suspects entered the business and stole bottles of cologne and perfume. The store employees did not realize a theft occurred until later that evening. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
September 12 at 10:48 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 300 block of W. Duarte regarding a grand theft of a bicycle. The victim parked and locked his bicycle behind his business on September 9 at around 6:00 p.m. When he returned on September 12 at 11:15 a.m., he found the chain had been cut and his bicycle had been stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Theft from a Vehicle
September 12 at 11:22 a.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 100 block of Highland Avenue. The victim parked her vehicle in the alley behind her residence. She left her vehicle unlocked with her wallet and cell phone inside. When she returned approximately 15 minutes later, her wallet and cell phone had been stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Domestic Battery
September 12 at 4:49 p.m., police responded to a domestic battery report in the 100 block of S. Shamrock. The female victim was involved in an argument with her boyfriend earlier in the day at approximately 6:00 a.m. The boyfriend became angry, assaulted her, and then left the location. The victim had no visible injuries. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft – Suspect Arrested
September 12 at 6:08 p.m., a bicycle was stolen from a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington. The suspect rode the bike to the Monrovia Gold Line Train Depot, where he entered a train with the bike, heading east on the train. Monrovia dispatch contacted the Los Angeles County Sheriffs, who responded to the Irwindale Train Depot, where the suspect was detained and taken into custody.

Attempt Passing of Counterfeit Money
September 13 at 8:42 p.m., police received a call from a business in the 500 block of W. Duarte reporting four suspicious male subjects loitering around the store. One of the subjects entered the store and attempted to exchange five counterfeit $20 bills for a one hundred dollar bill. When the store clerk confronted him about the counterfeit money, the suspect ran from the location. The suspect was not located. Officers recovered the counterfeit money from the clerk and notified the Secret Service

Bear Sighting
September 13 at 11:18 p.m., officers responded to the area of Sunset and Fowler regarding the report of a bear going through trashcans. The officers arrived and deployed one beanbag round at the bear, causing the bear to head north on Highland and back into the foothills.

Welfare Check / Warrants – Suspect Arrested
September 14 at 9:15 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 600 block of E. Evergreen to check on the welfare of a female subject. The officers located the subject, who appeared to be disoriented and admitted to having used drugs recently. She was also found to have several warrants for her arrest. The suspect was arrested for the warrants and taken into custody.

Grand Theft Auto
September 14 at 1:55 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 3300 block of Peck Road. The victim parked his vehicle in a business parking lot and went into the business. He returned to his vehicle ten minutes later and found it had been stolen. The vehicle is a 1996, teal green Chevy Silverado. The investigation is continuing.

Monrovia's STAAR Surgical Signs Deal With Indian Company

Monrovia's STAAR Surgical, a leading developer, manufacturer and marketer of implantable lenses for the eye, has entered into an agreement EyeQ Vision Private Ltd., of India to provide STAAR's intraocular lenses for refractive vision treatment in India. https://goo.gl/oJLxa9

- Brad Haugaard

New Monrovia Apartments to Have Waterfall Art; Video of Street Fair; Bulky-Items Removal


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

~ MODA at Monrovia Station, the 261-unit luxury apartment complex being built next to the Gold Line station will have an artistic waterfall on its south face.  Artis Justin Hansch of San Juan Capistrano entitles his work, Monrovia Falls.  "The concept involves installing tiny cascading reflective discs that are commonly used in billboard advertising, and made famous by Sparkletts' water trucks to highlight their signage. It will stand 36 feet tall and be 16 feet wide, and as the wind blows, the discs will reflect light to create an illusion of moving water.

~ Video taken by a drone of the September 2 Street Fair is now on line: https://vimeo.com/181-48430

~ Monrovia has a bulky-items pick-up agreement with Athens, so if you see anything that needs to be picked-up, contact the city by email at bulkyitem@ci.monrovia.ca.us or by phone at 932-5553.

- Brad Haugaard

Classical Music Tonight in Monrovia

Classical music by composers of African descent during the third Annual Samuel Coleridge-Taylor Concert tonight at St. Luke's Episcopal Church of Monrovia at 8 p.m. http://goo.gl/HX8U7L

- Brad Haugaard

More on Early Moving-Making in Monrovia

More on the early days of movie-making in Monrovia. http://goo.gl/Uuo7FN

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Third-Row Seats Stolen; Criminal Threats; Car vs. Light Pole; Theft From Next Door Storage Space; Burglary; Drugs; More Drugs; Alcohol

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

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Vehicle Burglary
September 8 at 8:27 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 1100 block of Briarcliff. The victim reported that two of his vehicles had the windows smashed and miscellaneous items were stolen. Two male suspects were seen removing items from the vehicles and fleeing the location in a black Jeep Wrangler. The investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
September 8 at 4:11 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 400 block of W. Huntington Drive regarding a subject drinking alcohol and lying on the sidewalk. Officers contacted the subject and determined he was too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested and held for detoxification.

Vehicle Burglary
September 9 at 7:14 a.m., a resident in the 600 block of E. Walnut reported a vehicle burglary. The resident parked and locked his vehicle in front of his home in the evening and went in for the night. When he returned to his vehicle the next morning, he found the door lock had been tampered with and the third row seats had been stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary
September 9 at 7:55 a.m., a burglary was reported at a business in the 800 block of W. Foothill. The victim arrived at his business in the morning to find the rear window had been forced open and items were stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
September 9 at 4:39 p.m., a male and female subject entered a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain, selected merchandise and put it in a cart. The female subject left the store and the male subject completed a return of the items with receipts the two had brought into the store. Loss prevention personnel detained the male suspect. An officer responded to the location and the male suspect was arrested and taken into custody. The suspect was also found to be in possession of narcotics and drug paraphernalia. The suspect was later released with a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Criminal Threats / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
September 9 at 5:37 p.m., a disturbance was reported at a residence in the 500 block of E. Lemon. The investigation revealed two brothers were involved in an argument and one made criminal threats against the other. One of the subjects was taken into custody for criminal threats and was also found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia. He was held pending his court appearance.

Felony Driving Under the Influence / Traffic Collision
September 9 at 9:06 p.m., a traffic collision was reported at Mountain and Evergreen. A vehicle had exited the freeway and collided with two other vehicles. The driver attempted to flee, but was detained by citizens. Through investigation, the driver was determined to be driving under the influence. He was taken to a hospital to be treated for his injuries. The other drivers complained of pain only. The case will be reviewed by the District Attorney’s office for filing consideration.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
September 9 at 11:39 p.m., officers responded to Huntington and Magnolia regarding a possible drunk driver in the area. The vehicle was located and stopped on Huntington for vehicle code violations. The driver was found to be driving under the influence and was arrested for DUI.

Hit and Run Traffic Collision
September 10 at 1:03 a.m., officers responded to Myrtle and Palm regarding a traffic collision. They arrived and found a vehicle on the sidewalk, which had crashed into a light pole and a building. The driver fled the scene of the accident. Witnesses reported seeing a white vehicle fleeing the area at a high rate of speed. A white vehicle was located by officers, but the two occupants stated they were not involved in a collision and the vehicle had no damage. Through investigation, the officers eventually determined that the passenger in the white vehicle was, in fact, the driver of the vehicle involved in the traffic collision. The investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft from a Vehicle
September 10 at 6:56 a.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 100 Block of E. Fig. The victim parked his vehicle in his driveway in the evening and left it unlocked. When he returned in the morning, he found someone had stolen his stereo from the dashboard. The investigation is continuing.

Burglary
September 10 at 11:05 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 2100 block of S. Myrtle regarding a burglary report. The victim arrived at his storage unit and discovered someone had drilled a large hole from the adjoining unit to gain entry into his unit. Several items were stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
September 10 at 1:25 p.m., a burglary was reported in the 200 block of Norumbega Drive. The victim was away on vacation and returned to find his home had been broken into and ransacked. The suspect forced entry through a rear bedroom window and several items were stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
September 10 at 2:59 a.m., loss prevention from a business in the 500 block of Huntington called police to report a shoplifter. The suspect was observed selecting merchandise and hiding it on his person. He then left the store without paying for the merchandise. The suspect was detained by officers in an adjoining business and arrested. The suspect also had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. He was held pending his court appearance.

Residential Burglary
September 10 at 4:24 p.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 100 block of Highland Avenue. The victim was away from the residence for approximately 24 hours and returned to find the home had been burglarized. The suspect gained entry by breaking the glass out of a rear door. The home was ransacked and jewelry was taken. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
September 11 at 11:57 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 800 block of Bonita. The investigation is continuing.

Gardening With Native Plants Topic at Monrovia Garden Club

Orchid Black, a specialist in native plants and landscaping, will speak on "Gardening with Native Plants" at the Monrovia Garden Club meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 27, 7 p.m. in Fellowship Hall at First Presbyterian Church, on the northeast corner of Myrtle and Foothill. Social hour with light refreshments at 6:30 p.m. Visitors welcome. Details: facebook.com/groups/MonnroviaGardenClub/

- Brad Haugaard

Zip Code Day Festivities Begin


Mayor Tom Adams (with Nancy Bond and council members Larry Spicer and Becky Shevlin) opens the festivities for Zip Code Day. If you are at the fountain in Library Park at 1 p.m. You can be in a group picture taken by a drone. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Four Blocks of Old Cars on Myrtle

If you are an old car lover today is the day to visit Old Town Monrovia. Four blocks of beautifully restored cars. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Loses to Arcadia :-(

Monrovia loses to Arcadia in football, 22-21. http://goo.gl/3K0zS4

- Brad Haugaard

Camel at Monrovia Street Fair


I was curious to see the camel at the Friday Night Street Fair. Well, here it is. He (or she - I'm not sure when it comes to camels) can carry children or adults weighing up to 250 pounds.

- Brad Haugaard

Zip Code Day in Monrovia Tomorrow, Saturday

Tomorrow, Saturday 9-10-16, is Zip Code Day in Monrovia. Festivities start at 11 a.m. in Library Park. Here are details: http://goo.gl/EEWpnN

- Brad Haugaard

Citrus College Dedicates $19 Million Visual Arts Building

From left: Jennifer Chavez Ramos, student trustee; Dr. Barbara R. Dickerson, vice president; Dr. Perri; Susan Keith, president; Dr. Patricia Rasmussen, clerk/secretary; Joanne Montgomery, board member; and Dr. Edward C. Ortell, board member.

Citrus College, which serves Monrovia, dedicated a new $19 million, 37,000 square foot visual arts building on Sept. 6 after several years of planning and nearly two years of construction.

It features studio for drawing, painting, printmaking, digital design, transmedia, animation, mixed media and photo and video production, a 150-seat lecture hall, an art gallery, computer labs, a ceramics lab, general purpose classrooms, faculty offices and a space for Citrus College's student newspaper, the Clarion.

The three-story project was funded by Measure G, a general obligation bond measure approved in 2004 by voters in the Citrus Community College District.

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Macky's Noodle House


Dinner last night at a place I hadn't noticed before, Macky's Noodle House, in the shopping center at Sixth and Duarte Road. I got a large bowl of Seafood Noodles for $8.45 and an iced tea for 50 cents. Food was good and the service almost instantaneous. 
- Brad Haugaard

Navy Successfully Demonstrates Sub-Launched Drone Made by Monrovia's AeroVironment

The U.S. Navy has successfully demonstrated the use of a submarine-launched Blackwing drone, made by Monrovia's AeroVironment, to link a swarm of unmanned undersea vehicles and communicate with the submarine combat control system during the Annual Naval Technology Exercise. https://goo.gl/SRSlsk

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Hiding in a Dumpster; Driver Hits Girl on Bicycle - Drives On; Asleep in the Lobby; Intruder Wakens Sleeping Woman; Etc.

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

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 413 service events, resulting in 61 investigations.

Restraining Order Served / Warrants / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
September 6 at 1:33 p.m., a resident in the 100 block of W. Walnut called police to report a male and female adult were his backyard causing a disturbance, and that he had a restraining order against the female. Officers responded and located both subjects. The female was detained, served with the restraining order and later released. The male subject had several outstanding warrants and was in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and taken into custody for the charges.

Wanted Suspect Arrested
September 6 at 7:50 p.m., an officer on patrol in the 100 block of W. Foothill saw a suspect that he knew was wanted by State Parole. The suspect was to be considered armed and dangerous. When the suspect saw the officer, he ran and hid inside a trash dumpster. The suspect was pointed out to police by a witness who saw him get into the dumpster. He was arrested and taken into custody without further incident.

Possession of Methamphetamine – Suspect Arrested
September 6 at 11:37 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 2000 block of S. Mountain when he saw a male subject sitting in a vehicle. The vehicle was parked in front of a fire hydrant. As the officer approached the vehicle, the subject exited and walked away. As he was walking away, he attempted to toss a baggie containing methamphetamine on the ground. The suspect was detained and arrested.

Felony Hit and Run Traffic Collision
September 7 at 8:27 a.m., a female juvenile was riding her bicycle west on Colorado and passed the intersection at Mayflower. The suspect was traveling North on Mayflower in a vehicle and made a left turn onto Colorado. After the turn, the suspect veered to the right and sideswiped the bicyclist, causing her to lose control of her bike and fall to the ground. The suspect fled the scene of the collision. The bicyclist sustained abrasions to her knee and elbow. The investigation is continuing.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
September 7 at 2:03 p.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 200 block of W. Huntington regarding a male subject passed out in a bathroom. The officers arrived and contacted the subject. The subject was found to be in possession of a methamphetamine pipe and was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia.

Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
September 7 at 7:46 p.m., an officer stopped a bicyclist for a vehicle code violation. During a consent search, the subject was found to be in possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
September 7 at 9:06 p.m., a business in the 900 block of S. Fifth Avenue called police to report a subject sleeping in their lobby who was refusing to leave. Officers arrived and contacted the subject, who was uncooperative. The subject was subsequently arrested for trespassing.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia / Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
September 7 at 9:09 p.m., officers responded to the 1300 block of S. Sherman regarding the report of a suspicious vehicle in the area. Officers located the vehicle and contacted the occupants. The subject in the driver seat was determined to be under the influence of drugs and was arrested. The passenger was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia.

Hot Prowl Burglary
September 8 at 1:22 a.m., officers responded to a residence in the 2100 block of S. Peck Road regarding a suspect who opened a sliding glass door and began entering a home. The female resident was asleep inside. She heard the sliding glass door opening and screamed. The suspect immediately fled the home. Containment of the area was set up and the Foothill Air Support Team helicopter responded to assist. A search of the area was conducted, but the suspect could not be located. The investigation is continuing.

No Parking Shortage in Old Town Monrovia - Just a Distribution Problem; Small Victory in Stormwater Mandate; Compost Give-Away; Etc.

In his weekly report ( http://goo.gl/EC3d2W ), City Manager Oliver Chi reports that ...

~ Monrovia's Traffic Engineer has concluded that Old Town does not have a parking shortage problem, but rather, a parking distribution problem, which could be solved by better utilizing outlying parking spaces. Solutions: relocate employee parking, better signs, sharing private parking spaces during busy times, adding a 15-minute spot for each block of Myrtle, restriping to pick up an additional 10 spaces. Most crowded parking times for Old Town: Noon for weekdays; 8 p.m. Fridays; 2 p.m. for Saturday.

~ You may recall that government stormwater requirement would have put Monrovia (and other cities) on the hook for expenses many times its total annual budget. Well, the California Supreme Court has ruled "that various requirements of the 2001 Los Angeles County Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit could be considered unfunded state mandates subject to reimbursement by the State." Chi said this is "a small but helpful step in our efforts to reconcile the financial challenges associated with complying with the provisions of the MS4 Permit, while also working towards cleaning up stormwater."

~ City Hall is going to be repainted. The body of the building will be painted "Shortbread."

~ There will be a compost and mulch give-away for Monrovians on Sept. 24, from 8 a.m. to noon on Chestnut Avenue, between Ivy Avenue and Myrtle Avenue. It's self-serve.

~ It is now illegal to smoke in Monrovia parks. Warnings at first, then citations after a few months.

~ With interest rates very low, the city may refinance some of its bonds.

~ Monrovia will be posting new signs to direct visitors to the city's Historical Museum.

~ This month the library will be giving out a free gift to people who get a library card. No idea what it is.

- Brad Haugaard

Donate Shoes for Monrovia Football

Monrovia High School Football is holding an Angel Bins shoe drive fundraiser. Donate new or slightly used shoes. Pair them by tying the laces together or rubber banding them together. The team will be collecting on Saturdays 9/10 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the student parking lot, and at the first home game on Friday 9/9.

- Brad Haugaard

Leading Up to Monrovia's Zip Code Day - We Have an Ambigram!

The Monrovia Community Development blog ( http://goo.gl/lhg1D2 ) has some interesting background information on zip codes, leading up to Monrovia's Zip Code Day on 9.10.16 in Library Park (lots of details here: http://goo.gl/EEWpnN ) . Did you know, for instance, that Monrovia's zip code is an ambigram? That means it is the same if you turn it upside down. Cool!

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's AeroVironment to Sell Drones to Australian Military

Monrovia's AeroVironment is going to sell some of its Wasp drones to the Australian military.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Assault With Knife; Stealing Car Seats; Bicyclist With Improper Lighting; Drunks and Drugs

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

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Grand Theft Auto
September 1 at 6:45 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 800 block of Genoa Avenue. The victim reported his 1992 Honda was stolen from in front of his home sometime during the early morning hours. The investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
September 1 at 12:44 p.m., a suspicious subject was reported under the 210 Freeway at Mayflower. Officers arrived and determined the subject was extremely intoxicated and could not care for himself. The subject was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Grand Theft Auto
September 1 at 10:42 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 500 block of W. Huntington. The vehicle is a green, 1998 Honda Civic. The investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
September 2 at 5:23 a.m., officers were dispatched on the report of a suspicious vehicle in the area of Linwood and Alta Vista. The officers located and contacted the driver, who worked for a transportation company. The female passenger was intoxicated and did not know where she was or where she was going. She was determined to be too intoxicated to care for her own safety. The subject was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
September 2 at 6:49 a.m., a domestic dispute was reported at a parking lot in the 1500 block of S. Myrtle. Officers arrived and contacted a female subject who was involved in the dispute. The investigation determined that no crime had occurred, but the female subject was discovered to have an outstanding warrant for her arrest. She was taken into custody and held pending her court appearance.

Grand Theft
September 2 at 11:45 a.m., a grand theft was reported in the 900 block of S. Fifth Avenue. The victim parked and locked her vehicle in a hotel parking lot. When she returned to the vehicle, she found the third row seats had been stolen. Forced entry was made through a rear window. The investigation is continuing.

Warrant / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
September 3 at 4:19 a.m., an officer on patrol stopped a bicyclist riding at night without the proper lighting equipment. A computer check revealed the subject had multiple warrants for his arrest. The subject was arrested and taken into custody. During a search of his property, the officer located drug paraphernalia, which was added to his charges.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
September 3 at 9:39 a.m., an officer on patrol in the 700 block of W. Duarte Road stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation. The investigation determined the subject was driving under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
September 3 at 4:09 p.m., police responded to the report of a subject lying on the sidewalk near a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington. Officers were dispatched and contacted the subject, who was determined to be too intoxicated to care for himself. The subject was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
September 5 at 9:56 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of E. Cypress called police to report that his neighbor lost control of his vehicle, hitting his fence and colliding into his tree. Officers arrived, contacted the subject and observed symptoms of intoxication. The investigation determined the subject was driving under the influence of alcohol and he was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
September 4 at 9:22 a.m., a vehicle was reported at a gas station at Huntington and Shamrock with a driver that appeared intoxicated. As officers arrived, the vehicle left the gas station and failed to stop for a stop sign. The vehicle was stopped and the driver was determined to be driving under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Robbery / Assault with a Deadly Weapon
September 4 at 5:31 p.m., staff from a local hospital called police to report an assault victim that came into the emergency room for treatment. Officers responded to investigate and determined the victim had been assaulted and robbed. The victim sustained lacerations and contusions to the face. The weapon used was the suspect's foot. The suspect is known to the victim and the investigation is continuing.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
September 5 at 9:56 p.m., officers responded to the 700 block of W. Huntington regarding a male subject running in and out of traffic and acting strange. When officers arrived, the subject tried running in and out of traffic to avoid contact. Officers detained the subject and determined he was under the influence of a controlled substance. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Vandalism / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspects Arrested
September 5 at 1:59 p.m., graffiti vandalism in progress was reported in the 100 block of W. Maple Avenue. When officers arrived in the area, four male juveniles were located that matched the description of the suspects. One of the juveniles admitted to tagging graffiti nearby, one had marijuana on his person, and one had prescription medication, marijuana and a scale on his person. Three of the subjects were arrested and the investigation is continuing.

Island Luau at Monrovia United Methodist Church

5th Annual Luau, Sept. 24, 5:30 p.m. at Monrovia United Methodist Church, 140 E. Palm Ave., in the Fellowship Hall downstairs. $20 per person. Kids 5 and under are free. An evening of Polynesian food and entertainment, authentic island style buffet, live South Seas dance show, silent auction, fundraiser For more information call Pastor Alena Uhamaka at 303-2783.

- Brad Haugaard

City to Consider Spending $95,000 to Film Videos - But Will Be Reimbursed

At the Sept. 6 City Council meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/1ygrjg ) the council will consider a number of contracts related the Renew Monrovia (the city-wide sewer, water and sidewalk repair project), and will consider spending $95,000 to film police training videos. The city would have to pay the money but would then be reimbursed by the state: http://goo.gl/kNNDe6

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Loses to La Salle - Badly :-(

La Salle over Monrovia in football, 37-0. Ouch! http://goo.gl/iOjhAp

- Brad Haugaard

Pet Vaccination at Monrovia's Library Park

The Pasadena Humane Society will hold a low-cost pet vaccination, chipping and licensing event on Sept. 15 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Library Park. Details: http://goo.gl/lcJJfn

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Suspect Captured using GPS Tracker; Stoned; Loot Not Taken

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for August 29-31. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 405 service events, resulting in 68 investigations.

Vehicle Burglary
August 30 at 7:45 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported by a resident in the 1200 block of S. Alta Vista. The victim parked and locked his vehicle in the late afternoon the day prior. When he returned to his vehicle in the morning, he found it had been ransacked. There was no signs of forced entry. A pair of sunglasses and change was stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Felony Battery / Obstructing and Delaying a Peace Officer – Suspects Arrested
August 31 at 12:52 a.m., officers were dispatched to an apartment complex in the 500 block of E. Olive regarding two male subjects fighting. When officers arrived, the suspect had fled and the victim was lying inside one of the apartments with severe cuts to his head and back from glass. The investigation revealed the suspect went to the apartment and started a fight with the victim. During the fight, the suspect pushed the victim through a glass window and fled the scene. The suspect was also cut, as a trail of blood was found. Officers conducted a search, but the suspect was not located. The identity of the suspect was known. He is currently on parole and wears a GPS tracker. On September 1 at 12:49 a.m., State Parole was able to plot the wanted suspect's location to the 300 block of E. Walnut in Monrovia. Monrovia officers and the Foothill Air Support Team helicopter responded to assist in the search. Officers set up containment of the area with assistance from neighboring agencies. The suspect was located hiding in a shed in the rear yard of a residence. The suspect ran from the shed to an apartment complex in the 300 block of S. Canyon, where he entered an apartment through an open sliding glass door. The suspect then jumped out of an upstairs window and attempted to run, but was taken into custody. While the officers were taking the suspect into custody, his girlfriend showed up and became confrontational with the officers. The suspect was arrested for felony battery and his girlfriend was arrested for obstructing and delaying the officers.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
August 31 at 8:58 a.m., a suspicious person was reported in the 400 block of W. Colorado. The subject was not wearing a shirt and was acting strange. Officers responded and located the subject, who was determined to be under the influence of a controlled substance. He was also found to be in possession of methamphetamine and a methamphetamine pipe. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Found Property
August 31 at approximately 5:00 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of W. Cherry saw a suspicious person in the front yard of his apartment complex. The male subject was described as 25-30 years old, wearing black sweats and a grey hooded sweatshirt. The resident confronted the subject, who then left the area on foot. At approximately 9:45 a.m., the resident returned home and found two backpacks, a flat screen television, and a gardening tool by the property line wall that might have been left behind by the subject. There were no thefts of similar items reported to police so the items were stored and are being held as found property.

Gold Line Construction Authority Wins Awards For Rail Line

The Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority has recently been awarded with four distinguished industry awards for the nearly $1 billion, 11.5-mile Foothill Gold Line light rail extension from Pasadena to Azusa. They are: Outstanding Rail Project of the Year (American Society of Civil Engineers, Metropolitan Los Angeles Branch; Sustainability Excellence Distinction Award (Western Council of Construction Consumers); Exceptional Project Achievement Award (Western Council of Construction Consumers); Excellence in Dispute Avoidance & Resolution (Dispute Resolution Board Foundation). Source: press release

- Brad Haugaard