Library Fine Amnesty

If you are dreading to return those books to the library because they are waaaaay overdue, rejoice! because January is an amnesty month. Zero fine if you return overdue books any time during January, 2018. https://goo.gl/ubwxEp

- Brad Haugaard 

Pari Passu Cafe And Peets Coffee Coming



According to this sign, it appears the unoccupied space in the building at the northwest corner of Myrtle and Foothill will be occupied by “Pari Passu: Cafe &Art” and by a Peets Coffee. Or does this mean the aafe will serve Peets coffee? 

- Brad Haugaard 

Dinner at Elements



Dinner at Elements Restaurant and Bar, in the Double Tree hotel on Huntington. Got the “Airline Chicken Breast” for $19 and a beer for the happy hour price of $4. Odd name for the chicken but very good!

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Councilman Larry Spicer Helps Run Rose Parade

The folks in white suits are the people who run the Rose Parade. One of them is Monrovia City Council member Larry Spicer. https://goo.gl/PXNWgz

- Brad Haugaard 

New Year's Eve on Myrtle


Here's what will be happening on Myrtle during New Year’s Eve:

  • Live atmospheric music in various locations in Old Town, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
  • Enhanced stage and live music at the intersection of Myrtle and Lemon, 9:00 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.
  • Enhanced seating with heaters and lights at the intersection of Myrtle and Lemon,6:00 p.m. – 12:30 a.m.
  • Child Care services from 6:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. for a fee of $20 at the Monrovia Community Center
  • Old Town restaurants small bite offerings
  • Enhanced outdoor dining and drinking at Old Town Restaurants within the event area
  • Opportunity for retail shops to have a Sidewalk Sale
  • Celebratory Ball Raising at Midnight
  • Shuttle Services from Station Square
  • Designated rideshare (Lyft / Uber) drop off and pick up at Library Park

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police Find Homes for Eight Homeless; Library Science; Tree Recycling; Library Reading Challenge

In his weekly report (https://goo.gl/aOqX7O), City Manager Oliver Chi reports ...

~ Monrovia Police Department has found permanent homes for eight homeless people this year, most recently for "Rose," a long-time homeless resident who slept in front of the Community Center or next to the Library. New Community Policing Officer, Javier Leon, found her 87-year-old mother in Seattle, and Rose agreed to fly there. Leon and School Resource Officer James Ruano bought Rose new clothes, she showered at the police station with the help of Jailer, Anisa Ortiz, and a team drove her to the airport for the flight.

~ The library has received a $10,000 grant from the California State Library to partner with the Oak Crest Institute of Science (Oak Crest) in developing an Innovation Station at the Monrovia Library. The money will go for equipment and classes, such as Cool Chemistry, Creepy Crawly Science, environment, circuitry, and 3D printing.

~ Athens Services will recycle your Christmas trees through Jan. 7. Remove ornaments, tinsel, plastic bags, nails, lights, and stands. For questions contact Public Works Division at 932-5575, or Athens Services at (888) 336-6100.

~  Mark Cuban will donate $25,000 to First Book (an organization that provides new books, learning materials and other educational resources for children in low-income households) if Americans read for 1,000,000 minutes in January. Monrovia Library is challenging Monrovians to read for 10 hours, and has a goal of 120,000 minutes.

- Brad Haugaard

Merry Christmas, Monrovia!

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the father, full of grace and truth. - John 1:14

Merry Christmas, everyone!

- Brad Haugaard

Christmas Eve in Monrovia

I always enjoy the manger scene in front of Monrovia First Presbyterian Church. 

Also worth seeing: 

- Valmont Drive. The whole block is lit up. Take Norumbega north almost to the hills. Valmont is on the left.

- A house on the east side of Primrose just south of Greystone has lights that dance to music you can hear through your car radio. The frequency is posted on a sign out front. 

- Alta Vista just north of Hillcrest is decorated in a community theme. 

What am I missing?

- Brad Haugaard 

Rocket Launch Seen From Monrovia




SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket shortly after it takes off from Vandenberg Air Force Base at 5:27 p.m. tonight.

- Brad Haugaard

Four Arrests in Gem City Grill Shootings

Four arrests in Gem City Grill shootings, in which Monrovian Michael Lowe died. Three more suspects are being sought. https://goo.gl/p3jPGz

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at The Monrovian


Lunch at The Monrovian, at Myrtle and Colorado. Got the Grilled Chirizo Sandwich (chorizo, egg, cheese) off the lunch menu for $9.95 and an iced tea for $2.69. Nice!

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: Old Man Arrested for Meth; Toolbox Stolen from Old Train Depot; Two Wallets Stolen Stolen While Shopping; Etc.

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

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 408 service events, resulting in 69 investigations.

Possession of a Controlled Substance / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 18 at 11:08 a.m., an elderly male subject that was acting suspicious in the 200 block of E. Chestnut was reported to police. The subject was knocking on doors and messing around with a water hose at a residence. Officers arrived and contacted the subject. A consent search of the subject revealed a pouch which contained methamphetamine. The subject was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and was found to have an outstanding no-bail probation warrant.

Grand Theft
December 18 at 8:47 p.m., a grand theft was reported in the 100 block of W. Lime. The victim parked her vehicle on the street and left her purse in the vehicle with the doors unlocked. When she returned to the vehicle, she found her purse had been stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft – Suspect Arrested
December 18 at 10:18 p.m., a grand theft of a bicycle was reported in the 700 block of E. Huntington. Officers responded to the area and located the bicycle. A subject was detained in the area and admitted to stealing the bicycle. The subject was arrested for the theft.

Burglary
December 19 at 6:51 a.m., unknown suspects picked the lock and made entry into the old train depot in the 1700 block of S. Myrtle. The suspects stole tools from a toolbox inside the depot. The investigation is continuing.

Warrants – Suspect Arrested
December 19 at 1:52 p.m., officers responded to the 600 block of W. Huntington regarding the report of a subject acting suspicious. Officers contacted the subject and found he had three outstanding warrants. The subject was arrested for the warrants.

Theft
December 19 at 3:15 p.m., a theft was reported at a business in the 600 block of W. Huntington. An elderly female was shopping at the store and left her open purse inside her shopping cart. An unknown suspect stole the wallet out of her purse without her knowledge. When she tried to pay for her merchandise, she discovered the theft. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
December 19 at 3:39 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a residential burglary that occurred in the 600 block of W. Olive. The resident left her home at 1200 noon and all doors and windows were locked. When she returned at 3:00 p.m., she found that someone had kicked in the back door. The loss is undetermined until the victim can inventory the location. The investigation is continuing.

Theft / Assault – Suspect Arrested
December 20 at 3:54 p.m., a theft and assault were reported at a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington. A male suspect concealed merchandise in his clothing and as he was walking toward the registers, a loss prevention officer stopped him and asked him for the property he concealed. The subject gave the loss prevention officer the property and the officer told him to stay there, but the subject walked out the doors. The loss prevention officer followed the subject and again told him to stay. The subject then hit him in the face with his fists. Bystanders called police and a citizen’s arrest was completed on the subject for assault and theft. The suspect was arrested.

Grand Theft Auto
December 20 at 4:46 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 1600 block of S. Mountain. The victim parked his 1999 Ford F350 in a business parking lot and left for approximately 4 hours. When he returned, the vehicle was not there. All keys are accounted for and the doors and windows were secured. The investigation is continuing.

Theft
December 20 at 5:27 p.m., a theft was reported at a business in the 900 block of W. Duarte. The victim said she was shopping at the store and her wallet was stolen without her knowing. She received a call from her credit card company asking about a purchase and that is how she realized it had been stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Possession of Controlled Substance / Warrants – Suspect Arrested
December 20 at 10:40 p.m., officers responded to the area of Mayflower and Palm regarding two male subjects arguing. They arrived and contacted the two subjects. One subject was found to have multiple warrants for his arrest. He was arrested for the warrants and when he was searched, officers located methamphetamine in his pocket. He was taken into custody. 

See Rocket Launch Early Friday Evening

According to Monrovia Old Town Astronomers and assuming everything goes as planned, you should be able to see the dramatic exhaust plume of a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket shortly after it takes off from Vandenberg Air Force Base at 5:27 p.m. Friday, tomorrow. Look to the west. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Changes Planned for New Year's Eve Party; Parade Award Winners; Playground Finished

In his weekly update, City Manager Oliver Chi reports:

~ There will be a few changes at the New Year's Eve festival on Myrtle:

  • Instead of having a single beer garden, restaurants with a liquor license can expand their service area into the street. 
  • Live music in various locations in Old Town from 6 to 9 p.m.
  • Live music at the intersection or Myrtle and Lemon from 9 p.m. - 12:30 a.m.
  • Enhanced seating with heaters and lights at the intersection or Myrtle and Lemon from 6 p.m. - 12:30 a.m.
  • Child Care services from 6 p.m. - 1 a.m. for $20 at the Library Community Room.
  • "Small bites" from Old Town restaurants.
  • Opportunity for retail shops to hold sidewalk sale.
  • Ball raising at midnight.
  • Shuttle from Station Square.
  • Lyft/Uber drop off and pick up at Library Park.

~ Winners in the Monrovia Holiday Parade are: Best Band – Santa Fe Middle School

  • Best Float – Foothill Oaks Academy
  • Best Themed Entry – Bradoaks Elementary School
  • Judges Award – Plymouth Elementary School
  • Best Cheerleading Squad – Monrovia High School Cheerleaders
  • Best Dance Troop – Infinity Roller Derby
  • Spirit of Santa Award – Monrovia Reads

~ The resurfacing of the Library Park Playground is complete and the playground has been reopened.

- Brad Haugaard

Husband of Monrovia’s Congresswoman Dies

The husband of Congresswoman Grace Napolitano has died of esophageal cancer, according to a report by the San Gabriel Valley Economic Partnership. Napolitano represents much of Monrovia. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Widow Faces Husband’s Killer in Court

Monrovia widow Erica Nelson faces off her husband’s drunk driver killer in court. https://goo.gl/TK4eKw

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Rotary Sponsors Blood Drive

Monrovia Rotary Club is sponsoring a blood drive on Wednesday, Jan. 24, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 800 Royal Oaks Drive, Monrovia. Walk-ins welcome but you can make a reservation here (https://goo.gl/qkw2tM) or by calling City of Hope at 218-7171.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Hiking Shortcut Leads to Fall; Lots of Drunk Driving; Drunk Accidents; Jimmying Mail Boxes; Etc.

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

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Traffic Collision
December 14 at 7:40 a.m., a traffic collision was reported at Duarte and Myrtle. A driver was traveling east on Duarte, approaching Myrtle, when a vehicle pulled away from the curb and failed to yield, colliding into the vehicle. No one was injured in the incident.

Traffic Collision
December 14 at 12:36 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 100 block of W. Olive. A driver was traveling east on Olive and began to make a left turn into an alley, failing to yield to oncoming traffic. She collided into a vehicle traveling west on Olive. There were no injuries involved.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 14 at 4:02 p.m., an officer on patrol saw a vehicle run the red light at Myrtle and Foothill. The officer stopped the vehicle, and further investigation determined the driver was driving under the influence of alcohol. The driver was arrested for DUI and held for a sobering period.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
December 14 at 6:09 p.m., loss prevention at a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington called police regarding a male and female subject they were detaining for shoplifting. The female subject had placed store merchandise in her purse and left the store without paying for the items. An officer was dispatched and handled the investigation. The female subject was arrested for shoplifting and the male subject was released.

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
December 14 at 7:50 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of E. Pomona called police to report his adult son was trespassing and disturbing their peace. The son has an active no-trespassing order signed against him. The subject was contacted and arrested.

Attempted Mail Theft
December 14 at 9:36 p.m., a resident in the 1400 block of Monterey witnessed a subject attempting to force open the mailboxes at an apartment complex. A tenant came out and scared the suspect away. The mailbox locks appeared to have been damaged. The suspect was not located and the investigation is continuing.

Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 15 at 7:47 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 800 block of W. Colorado. A driver was dropping off his son in front of the high school and was parked along the north curb. As he pulled away from the curb, he collided into a vehicle that was traveling west on Colorado. The driver who was traveling west on Colorado was determined to be driving under the influence with a suspended driver's license. He was arrested and taken into custody for DUI.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 16 at 2:11 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for unsafe speed in the 700 block of W. Huntington. The investigation determined the driver was too impaired to drive a motor vehicle safely. He was arrested for DUI and the vehicle was stored.

Traffic Collision
December 16 at 3:42 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 700 block of W. Huntington. A driver was traveling in the number two lane heading eastbound on Huntington, just east of Encino. The driver attempted to make a lane change and sideswiped the vehicle in the number one lane. The driver making the lane change was issued a citation at the scene. No injuries were reported.

Vehicle Burglary
December 16 at 3:46 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 200 block of California Avenue. The victim parked his vehicle in front of the location the day before, and when he returned to his vehicle the next day, he saw the lock on the driver-side door was dislodged. Construction tools had been stolen from inside the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
December 16 at 9:12 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 900 block of W. Huntington. The victim reported that someone forced the window open to her SUV and took a purse and a speaker from inside the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Package Theft / Attempted Mail Theft
December 16 at 9:19 p.m., a package theft was reported in the 900 block of California. The victim was expecting a package during the day while both residents were at work. When they arrived home, the package was not there. The investigation is continuing.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 16 at 10:34 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 1000 block of Oakleaf and stopped a vehicle for impeding traffic. A computer check revealed the female passenger of the vehicle had a warrant for shoplifting out of Arcadia. She was arrested and taken into custody for the warrant.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
December 17 at 12:57 a.m., an employee from a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington called police to report a male adult subject who was loitering in their restaurant and acting strange. An officer arrived and contacted the subject, who was walking east on Huntington. The subject was found to be too intoxicated to care for himself or others and was arrested for being drunk in public.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 17 at 12:58 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle at California and Huntington for vehicle code violations. Further investigation revealed the driver was too impaired to drive a motor vehicle safely. He was arrested for DUI and the vehicle was stored.

Grand Theft
December 17 at 1:01 p.m., an employee at a church in the 100 block of W. Palm reported that cash was taken from a locked drawer in their thrift store. The money was taken sometime between December 14 through 17. The investigation is continuing.

Missing Hikers Located
December 17 at 1:21 p.m., a husband and wife that had gone on a hike with their dog in Canyon Park were reported lost. Apparently, they took a wrong trail which led them to a dead end. Rather than back tracking, they tried to take a shortcut, which led them to a cliff area, where the female fell. The couple and dog were then stranded on the side of the cliff. It took the Foothill Air Support Team helicopter about an hour to find them and all three were airlifted. They were then transported to a hospital for treatment of scrapes and bruises.

Theft From a Vehicle
December 17 at 2:58 p.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 800 block of W. Duarte. The victim parked her vehicle in the carport area of her apartment complex and left her vehicle unlocked and the windows down. When she returned to the vehicle, someone had stolen her handicap placard from her car. 

Christmas Cantata This Sunday

Christmas cantata, “When Earth Received Her King,” at Calvary Road Baptist Church (319 W. Olive) Sunday, Dec. 17 at 6 p.m. Refreshments to follow. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Council: Give City Manager a Raise? Two New Taxes

At its Tuesday, Dec. 19 meeting (agenda: https://goo.gl/H2gA76) the Monrovia City Council will consider ...

~ Giving City Manager Oliver Chi a 5 percent raise, to $18,363.51 per month. The staff report says that would still put him below the pay of other local cities. https://goo.gl/J2qqLb

~ Holding a special election on June 5 to vote on a hotel bed tax to help pay for unfunded retirement liability. https://goo.gl/ghE7RA

~ Creating districts where new housing is likely to be built, and levy an additional tax on new housing built in those areas. Again, to help help pay for unfunded retirement costs. https://goo.gl/VpV8oQ


- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Mikomi Sushi



Dinner at Mikomi Sushi on the east side of Myrtle just south of the theater. Got the Spicy Chicken entree ($14), which comes with miso soup, salad and tempura, and a beer for $7.95.  Really quite good food! And a lot; had to take some home.

- Brad Haugaard 

Navy Commander Surprises His Children at Monrovia Schools

A touching story of Navy Commander Jeffrey Mitchel who arrived home to Monrovia early and surprises his children in their schools. https://goo.gl/ZjNwVJ

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Serial Shoplifter; Truck With Keys Stolen; Auto Thief Will Return Car 'When He's Ready'; Etc.

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

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 441 service events, resulting in 74 investigations.

Vehicle Tampering
December 11 at 10:04 p.m., an incident of vehicle tampering was reported in the 800 block of W. Olive. The victim stated that someone entered his unlocked vehicle and went through it, but it appeared nothing was taken. The investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting
December 11 at 2:10 p.m., the manager of a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington called police to report a shoplifter. A male suspect entered a business and filled up a bag with items. He then exited the store with the merchandise and the manager ran after him. The business reported that the same suspect has stolen items before from them. The suspect dropped the stolen items and fled the scene. The store desires prosecution. An area check was conducted, but the suspect was not found. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
December 11 at 8:13 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 900 block of Monterey. The victim parked her vehicle at the location at 2:00 p.m. and returned at 8:00 p.m. The passenger window had been shattered and the vehicle was ransacked. It appears that nothing was taken from the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
December 12 at 8:17 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 600 block of E. Colorado. The victim parked his vehicle on the street and went inside for the evening. The next morning, his girlfriend looked out the window and saw the truck being driven away from the location. She told the victim, who then realized he had left his keys in the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
December 12 at 9:25 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 200 block of W. Colorado. The vehicle was parked at the victim’s residence. The following day it was not there and a family member called the victim to tell her that a male subject they all knew was driving the vehicle. The family member told the male subject he needed to return the car, but the subject replied that he would return it when he was ready. The vehicle was entered as stolen and the male subject entered as the suspect. The investigation is continuing.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
December 12 at 11:04 a.m., a hit and run traffic collision was reported in the 500 block of W. Palm Avenue. The suspect driver struck two vehicles on Palm and fled the area. A witness reported that the suspect vehicle is a green, box-type Scion. The vehicle was last seen traveling east on Foothill from the area. Officers arrived and checked the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Sign Up for Home Security Rebate; Congrats to Fire Department; New Bed Tax; Etc.

From City Manager Oliver Chi's his weekly update ...

~ Monrovia's Home Security Rebate Program has been approved and the city will begin accepting applications in January. The program will rebate you up to $250 when you install a home security system. If you are interested send an email to securityrebate@ci.monrovia.ca.us. You'll be notified when the City begins to accept applications.

~ Congratulated the fire department and other personnel who jumped on the Norumbega fire and doused it so quickly. Comment: Yes! Much appreciated.

~ Just as other fire agencies helped Monrovia, Monrovia has also been sending firefighting support for the fires in the San Diego and Santa Barbara areas.

~ In case of future evacuation orders, "the City will always utilize law enforcement personnel to start knocking on doors to personally notify residents of the need to evacuate."

~ Monrovia's RED Program is designed to help elderly and disabled citizens who may not be able to help themselves in critical and life-threatening situations, such as evacuations. To sign up for the program, contact the Monrovia Fire Department at 256-8181, or visit Fire Station 101 (141 East Lemon Avenue).

~ As part of Monrovia's response to its huge unfunded retirement problem the city wants to raise the bed tax on hotels from 10 to 12 percent. It will have to go on the ballot of a special election in June 2018. Chi said "Staff has spoken with the DoubleTree, Courtyard Marriott, and the developer of the proposed Marriott TownePlace Suite hotel about the proposed 2% increase" and they're okay with it.

~ Horse-drawn carriage rides for $5 on Thursdays and Sundays this month in Old Town. Thursdays, Dec. 14 and 21, from 5-8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 17, from 3-6 p.m.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia High Basketball 'Thriller' Victory; Christmas Parade on Video

~ The Monrovia High boys basketball team beat Bellflower 97-93 in a double-overtime thriller. https://goo.gl/BehGwr

~ Here's the Monrovia Christmas Parade on video, if you missed it in person: https://goo.gl/Mjy4zq

- Brad Haugaard

Unity Center Food Distribution Day on Dec. 16

Monrovia's Foothill Unity Center will hold a food distribution day for families with children on Saturday, Dec. 16, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Ayres Hall, at the LA County Arboretum in Arcadia. Packing Day will be Friday, Dec. 15, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Each family will take home a holiday food box with a meat and the makings for a traditional dinner. Boxes are packed to family size. Families with children will also take home bags of unwrapped gifts specifically requested by their kids through the Center’s Adopt an Angel program. The bags are opaque, so families can wrap and give them as part of their own holiday traditions.

More than 400 youth and adult volunteers will work together to pack nearly 1,000 holiday food boxes and organize the gift bags Friday in preparation for the distribution day on Saturday, staffed by more than 150 volunteers.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Chamber of Commerce Award Winners

Monrovia Chamber of Commerce award winners:

~ Stephen Bray will receive the Iris Award, equivalent to Citizen of the Year.

~ The 2017 Monroe Award honoree, for business person of the year, will go to Paul Kalemkiarian.

~ Penny Arroyo, of Volunteer Center of San Gabriel Valley, has been selected as the recipient of the
Service to the Chamber Award.

~ The Military Service & Stewardship Award will be presented to Gene Glasco.

Source: https://goo.gl/cs9LPk

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: First He's In an Accident, Then His Car is Stolen; Etc.

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

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Warrant / Possession of Personal Identifying Information / Possession of Access Card – Suspect Arrested
December 7 at 10:13 a.m., officers responded to a business parking lot in the 600 block of W. Huntington regarding a male subject walking around and yelling, causing a disturbance. Officers contacted the subject and a computer check revealed he had an outstanding warrant; he was arrested. An inventory of his property revealed he was in possession of someone else's driver's license and debit card. Further investigation revealed the two items were reported stolen from a vehicle in another city. The victim did not know the subject and did not give him permission to be in possession of his license or debit card. The suspect was additionally charged with possessing another person’s identifying information and for possession of an access card without cardholder's consent.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 7 at 9:28 p.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for several vehicle code violations. The driver was found to be too impaired to drive a motor vehicle safely and was arrested for DUI. Due to driver’s high level of intoxication, the Monrovia Fire Department paramedics were summoned. The driver was taken to a hospital for medical treatment.

Grand Theft Auto
December 7 at 10:01 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the area of Myrtle and Central. The victim called police and reported that he had been in an accident on the freeway and he exited at Myrtle. He parked his car near Myrtle and Central and then went to call his daughter. When he returned to the vehicle, it was gone. The investigation is continuing.

Domestic Battery – Suspect Arrested
December 8 at 2:29 a.m., officers were dispatched on the report of a family disturbance at a residence in the 500 block of E. Olive. After interviewing both parties, the husband was arrested for battery and taken into custody.

Theft From a Vehicle
December 8 at 12:00 noon, a theft from a vehicle was reported in the 200 block of W. Lemon. An unknown suspect entered the victim's unlocked vehicle and stole his wallet from the center console. His wallet contained various debit and credit cards. One of the cards had already been used at an unknown location. The investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
December 8 at 3:58 p.m., a female subject was detained for shoplifting at a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington. She entered the location, grabbed a handbag and exited the store without paying. The suspect did not have any identification or form of payment on her. She was arrested and taken into custody. The suspect was also found to have an outstanding warrant. She was later released with a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
December 8 at 8:27 p.m., a disturbing subject was reported at a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington. Officers arrived and contacted the subject, who showed signs of drug influence. A search of his person revealed he had a methamphetamine pipe in his possession. After investigation, the subject was arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Shoplifting / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
December 8 at 8:40 p.m., officers responded to the report of a shoplifting in progress at a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington. As officers arrived, the loss prevention officer was detaining a male adult for shoplifting. A search of the suspect revealed methamphetamine and a methamphetamine pipe. The suspect was arrested for shoplifting, possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 9 at 2:02 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for vehicle code violations in the area of Mountain and Royal Oaks. The investigation revealed the driver was too impaired to drive a motor vehicle safely and the suspect was arrested for driving under the influence. The vehicle was stored.

Warrants / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
December 9 at 4:18 a.m., an officer observed a suspicious subject in a vehicle at a closed business. He contacted the subject and a computer check revealed he had two warrants for his arrest. During a search of the subject, he was found to be in possession of methamphetamine. The subject was arrested.

Grand Theft
December 9 at 10:19 a.m., a grand theft was reported at a business in the 100 block of W. Chestnut. Unknown suspects cut the lock to the gate and took a compressor from the rear of the business. The investigation is continuing.

Theft
December 10 at 11:29 a.m., a theft was reported at a business in the 600 block of W. Huntington. The victim realized her wallet had been taken from her purse while she was at the business the day prior. When she contacted the bank to cancel her accounts, she was informed of two fraudulent transactions made to her account. The investigation is continuing.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 10 at 7:43 p.m., an officer on patrol saw a subject trying to jump start a vehicle parked in a no-parking zone. The officer contacted the subject and noticed the subject appeared to be under the influence of a controlled substance. A computer check of the subject revealed he had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and held for a sobering period. He was later released on a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Grand Theft Auto
December 10 at 8:24 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from a business parking lot in the 500 block of W. Huntington. The victim had been shopping and was returning to her vehicle, when she saw her vehicle being driven away. The vehicle had been parked and secured at the location. Officers conducted an area check, but did not locate the vehicle. The investigation is continuing. 

Norumbega Fire Under Investigation

The city reports that, "The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, and fire investigators have already been deployed on scene to assess the situation."

Comment: Yeah, two fires in just a few days. Suspicious.

- Brad Haugaard

Burned Water Tank Above Monrovia Not Being Used

On the TV news last night you may have seen a large water tank on a hillside north of Monrovia engulfed in fire. Well, that won't cause any disruption because it is not in use. City Manager Oliver Chi reports that it was decommissioned in late 1950s.

- Brad Haugaard

Fire Above East Monrovia



A substantial fire is burning in the hillsides of east Monrovia. Possibly around Norumbega. This bad picture taken from Hillcrest near Magnolia. Apparently just above Grant Park.

Update: No homes damaged yet but it appears a water tank on the hillside may be damaged.

Update: People evacuating the area may go to the Community Center, just north of the library.

Update: You can take your dog to Wonder Dog Ranch if you are evacuating the area. 220 Taylor Street, east off Myrtle two blocks south of Duarte Road.

Update: Very low winds helping a lot. Firefighters seem to be getting a handle on it. Encouraging, except I'm wondering about the cost of fixing/replacing that water tank.

Update: Mayor Tom Adams reports that Foothill Gym has opened for anyone needing a place to go. On the east side of Myrtle just across from the Pavilions shopping center.

Update: From TV coverage it looks like firefighters have it pretty much under control. It looks as if it is now a job of keeping an eye on the embers to make sure there are no flare-ups.

- Brad Haugaard 

School Board to Consider Social Justice Camp; New Courses; Online Chat Software

At its December 13 meeting (agenda), the Monrovia School Board will consider ...

~ Approving a deal for 20 students to attend a free multi-day Building Bridges Camp by the California Conference for Equality and Justice during the 2017-18 school year. "After attending Builing Bridges Camps, students return to campus as leaders on anti-bias and social justice efforts." Details here.

~ Approving several new courses: Global Affairs, Avid (college prep), Math II and III, and Advanced Video Production.

~ Approving a contract with Fulcrum Management Solutions for its online software "that creates online conversations for meaningful engagement by parents, staff, and community members." Details here.

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Gem City Grill




Had lunch yesterday at Gem City Grill, on the north side of Olive just east of Myrtle. Got a Bacon Cheddar Ranch Sandwich for $7.95 and a beer for $5. Nothing trendy about this place. It’s an old style bar and grill with pool tables but the  sandwich (really a burger) was great. Patty was twice as thick compared to burger patties at most places. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Bake Sale Sunday to Benefit Young Musicians

The Monrovia Young Musicians Ensemble will hold a bake sale this Sunday, Dec. 10, from 3-5 p.m. at the Pavilions market. Live music and goodies to buy.

- Brad Haugaard

Firefighters Put Out Brush Fire in North Monrovia

Firefighters last night quikly put out a small brush fire in north Monrovia, in back yards near the entrance to Canyon Park.  Details here.

- Brad Haugaard

Christmas Tree ... With Snow



The Monrovia Christmas tree was lit this evening by Mayor Tom Adams. A new addition was a couple of snow machines that started up as the tree went on. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: Woman Accidentally Spends Fake $100 Bill; Cannon Shell Found in Car; Arrest In Auto Theft; Etc.

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

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 425 service events, resulting in 59 investigations.

Counterfeit Bill
December 4 at 9:33 a.m., a female subject called police to report she had inadvertently used a fictitious $100 bill at a gas station in the 900 block of W. Foothill. She reported that she received the bill from a bank. An officer responded and confirmed the $100 bill was fictitious and the U.S. Secret Service was notified. The investigation is continuing.

Battery / Hit & Run Traffic Collision
December 4 at 10:47 a.m., a caller reported a disturbing subject at a gas station in the 900 block of W. Huntington. Officers arrived and learned the subject had punched a customer at the gas station and then while attempting to drive away, the subject collided into a vehicle. The suspect fled the scene. The investigation is continuing.

Artillery Round Found – Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Bomb Squad Notified
December 4 at 1:01 p.m., officers responded to the 100 block of E. Pomona to assist a subject with retrieving property from his impounded vehicle. While the subject was getting his property, the tip of an artillery round was located in the trunk. The item belonged to the registered owner’s grandfather. The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Bomb Squad was notified; they responded and took possession of the device.

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
December 5 at 9:51 a.m., the manager of a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington called police to report a disturbing male subject at the location. The subject has a notrespassing order issued to him for the location. Officers arrived and detained the subject. The no-trespass authorization was posted on the front entry and exit doors, and the subject has been notified that he is not to be at the location. He was arrested for trespassing.

Stolen Vehicle
December 5 at 8:17 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 400 block of W. Huntington. A female subject parked her vehicle in the business parking lot and went into work. When she returned to her vehicle, she found it had been stolen. The vehicle is a 2004 Acura. The investigation is continuing.

Mail Tampering
December 6 at 11:26 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of Wildrose reported an incident of mail tampering. She was at her home when FedEx dropped off a package and she heard a knock at the door. When she opened the door, she saw a female, White subject, wearing jeans and a jean jacket, walking away with her package. She yelled at the female, who then dropped the package and fled in a brown, 4-door Honda, with a male suspect driving. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto / Felon With a Gun / Warrant – Suspects Arrested
December 6 at 1:42 p.m., a parking control officer observed a suspicious black Honda Accord with no plates making two quick turns in what he thought was an attempt to get away from him. The vehicle parked in an alley in the 200 block of east Colorado. A computer check revealed the vehicle had been reported stolen out of Westminster. Patrol officers responded and the vehicle went mobile. As officers were attempting to stop the vehicle, the male, front passenger threw a handgun out the window. Once the vehicle was stopped, the three occupants were detained. The driver was arrested for grand theft auto, the front passenger was arrested for felon with a gun, and the rear passenger was arrested for a no-bail warrant. The investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
December 6 at 3:14 p.m., loss prevention at a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain saw a subject in the store taking items and placing them in his clothing. Officers responded to the location and also observed the suspect placing items in his clothing. The suspect walked past the manned registers without stopping to pay for the items and was detained. The suspect was arrested and received a citation to appear in court on the charges. 

What Does Hayley Mills Have to Do With Restoring the Monrovia Train Station?

A really great article about the soon-to-be-completed restoration of the old Monrovia train station. Did you know that one of the best sources of historical images for the restorers came, oddly, from the 1966 comedy, "The Trouble with Angels," starring Hayley Mills and Rosalind Russell?   https://goo.gl/rbWCDj

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Aldi Supermarkets Now Open




Although the Grand Opening is tomorrow, Thursday, The Aldi supermarket (in the old Albertson's shopping center site on Huntington) is open today. I walked through and two things struck me: 1. How wide the aisles are, and 2. That you need to deposit a quarter to get a cart, but you get the quarter back when you return the cart. The store opens at 9 a.m. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Stock in Monrovia's AeroVironment Jumps 30 Percent

The stock in Monrovia drone-maker, AeroVironment, jumped 30 percent after it reports a 45 percent quarterly revenue jump compared to last year: https://goo.gl/8apqDd

- Brad Haugaard

Santa's Monrovia Schedule

This year, Monrovia will continue our 19 year long tradition of celebrating the holiday season by touring Santa Claus around city streets on top of a fire engine. Escorted by a police car and a decorated public works sleigh, Santa will give candy canes to the public in the spirit of giving. City employees will be volunteering their time to help make the program fun and successful for all Monrovians and visitors in our premier city.

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

Monday, December 18, 2017 – will tour streets south of Huntington, west of Myrtle to Fifth, north of southern city boundaries. Also includes Valley Circle.

Tuesday, December 19, 2017 – will tour city streets east of Myrtle, north of Foothill.

Wednesday, December 20, 2017 –will tour city streets west of Myrtle, south of Foothill to Huntington, between Myrtle and Fifth.

Thursday, December 21, 2017 – will tour city streets east of Myrtle, south of Foothill, north of Duarte Road, and west of the eastern city boundaries.

Friday, December 22, 2017 – will tour city streets west of Myrtle, north of Foothill.

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

Sleigh Departure Time and Tour Hours – 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

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

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

The public works truck will be driven by public works employees who are volunteering their time. Our reindeer sleigh, bright with over 1500 lights, will also be playing holiday carols. Community members are welcome to ride with city employees and their families in the sleigh during the tour. Space is limited and participation is first come first served. Parents are reminded that children must be accompanied by an adult, and you must bring appropriate warm clothing for cold weather and umbrellas for possible rain, as the sleigh is open air.

Venture outside, welcome Santa and enjoy the candy canes!  HAPPY HOLIDAYS to all and may you all have a safe holiday season.

Source: Monrovia Police press release

- Brad Haugaard
 

Monrovia Sells Bonds Cheap; Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade Thursday; Aldi's Opening; Etc.

In his weekly report (https://goo.gl/aOqX7O) City Manager Oliver Chi reports that ...

~ The City successfully sold $111.6 million worth of pension obligation bonds to refinance all of the City's pension liabilities at a lower cost than projected, resulting in an estimated savings of $50.3 million rather than just $43.2 million, as earlier estimated. Chi said this was because of "the City’s strong financial position and an uptick in demand for municipal securities."

~ The Annual Tree Lighting will be at 6 p.m. this Thursday, followed by the Christmas Parade at 7 p.m. The parade will travel north on Myrtle from Chestnut Avenue to Palm Avenue.

~ And here's a great, compact list of Christmas and New Year's events in Monrovia: https://goo.gl/XjXPsq

~  Aldi’s Supermarket will have its grand opening celebration on Thursday, Dec. 7, with a ribbon cutting at 8:25 a.m. Aldi's is in the old Albertson's shopping center in east Monrovia.

~ Here's a video of the rehab work at the old train station: https://goo.gl/Zu93eC

~ The bouncy rubber coating on the Library Park Playground is scheduled to be replaced Dec. 11-20.  While the work is being completed, the playground will be closed.

~ The Library's Veterans Resource Center is partnering with the American Legion Women's Auxiliary to support the USO and local military personnel who are hospitalized. They are collecting white socks for men and women; coloring books for adults; coloring pencils, markers, and pens; and board games for adults. You can drop off donations in the large yellow box in the Library's main lobby. contact Mabel Cross, Librarian, at 256-8294 if you have any questions.

- Brad Haugaard

Former Monrovia Mayor Lutz Plans a Run for Congress

Former Monrovia Mayor Mary Ann Lutz has announced on Facebook her intention to run for Congress representing the 32nd Congressional District ...  someday, but only after the current representative, Grace Napolitano, steps down. 

Here is her full statement:

“Running For Congress...

“Like many of you, the past few months have been incredibly difficult for me to watch. The current administration creates one national crisis after another as their reckless, wrong-headed and discriminatory actions create unprecedented anxiety and division throughout the country.   We need to fight back against the fear-mongering forces that divide us and remake our country into one that has immense promise for all, not one that is dominated by a politics driven by fear of the unknown. 

“After serving 3 terms as Mayor of Monrovia and six years as council member, my experience in local, regional and federal policy and public service, and decades as a neighborhood activist, I know what it takes to generate positive change and produce tangible results for the people in our local neighborhoods. 

“ In 2015 I was honored to join the staff of Congresswoman Grace Napolitano, as a Policy Advisor for Water, Transportation and Environment.  This experience led me to a greater understanding of how Congress can work with and for our community.

"Congresswoman Napolitano is a widely respected leader in the community, is still the sitting Member and representative for California’s 32nd District. She is my mentor and has my support.   That said, at some point in the future, the Congresswoman will likely retire.  I believe I have the knowledge, passion and experience to represent you in Congress, thus I have opened a campaign committee in anticipation of a future race.   As I have said publicly, my plan is to run when the seat opens.

“If I have the privilege of representing the 32nd District in Congress, I will fight tooth and nail to resist the Trump agenda and work toward reducing inequality, fighting for social and economic justice, and a future full of hope and possibility for all.”

- Brad Haugaard 

Unity Center Needs December Volunteers

Foothill Unity Center needs help sorting and packing food for family distribution events this month. A limited number of volunteers are needed for each shift. Registration is mandatory and is available for individuals and groups until December 10. Register at www.foothillunitycenter.org.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Package Theft Suspect Caught; Woman's Foot Run Over; Drugs, Alcohol, and Gem City Grill Shooting

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for November 30 – December 3. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Package Theft – Suspect Arrested
November 30 at 2:14 p.m., a suspicious subject who was looking into vehicles in the area of Primrose and Linwood was reported to police. An officer responded and located the subject nearby. The subject was wearing a backpack when officers first saw him, but he had dropped the backpack and walked away from it before he was detained. The subject gave officers consent to search the backpack, which contained a package that had been stolen from a residence in the 200 block of S. Primrose. The suspect was arrested for possession of the stolen property and taken into custody. The victim did not desire prosecution and the suspect was released after he was identified.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
November 30 at 3:15 p.m., a parking control officer was impounding a vehicle and trailer that had suspended registration as of 2015. After the tow truck arrived to tow the vehicle, a subject came out and confronted the parking control officer. Officers responded to assist and discovered the subject had multiple warrants for his arrest. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Ex-Felon in Possession of a Firearm / Warrants – Suspect Arrested
November 30 at 4:20 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 100 block of W. Foothill regarding a disturbing subject who management wanted to complete a no trespass authorization form against. Officers recognized the subject from previous contacts and a computer check revealed the subject had warrants for his arrest. During a pat-down search of the subject, he admitted to officers that he had something he shouldn't have in his pocket. The officers recovered a .38 caliber revolver from his right pants pocket and black gloves in his left pocket. The suspect was arrested for being an ex-felon in possession of a firearm and the warrants.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
November 30 at 9:57 p.m., officers responded to the area of Foothill and Mayflower regarding the report of a suspicious subject loitering in the area. They contacted the subject and a consent search revealed the subject was in possession of a pipe for smoking methamphetamine. The suspect was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia.

Warrant / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
December 1 at 1:43 a.m., an officer contacted a suspicious male subject in the area of Myrtle and Lemon. A computer check revealed he had a warrant for his arrest and during a consent search of the subject, he was found to have cocaine in his possession. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
December 1 at 2:59 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle at the intersection of Peck and Live Oak for vehicle code violations. The driver was determined to be too impaired to drive a motor vehicle safely and was arrested for driving under the influence. The driver was taken into custody and held for a sobering period.

Injury Traffic Collision
December 1 at 11:01 a.m., an injury traffic collision was reported in the 500 block of W. Huntington. An elderly female was walking through a business parking lot to her vehicle when a driver made a left turn into the parking lot and struck her foot at a slow rate of speed. The vehicle's tire hit the pedestrian's ankle. Paramedics responded and the pedestrian was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Homicide Investigation
December 2 at 12:01 a.m., officers responded to shots fired at the Gem City Grill in the 100 block of E. Olive. When they arrived, they found three subjects had been shot. All three subjects were taken to local hospitals for treatment. One of the victims involved in the incident succumbed to his injuries while at the hospital. The crime is being investigated by the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Homicide Unit.

Public Intoxication / No-Bail Parole Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 2 at 8:34 p.m., a citizen called police to report an intoxicated subject causing a disturbance in the 2100 block of S. Myrtle. Officers arrived and detained the male adult, who they recognized as a subject they knew had a no-bail warrant for his arrest. The subject was also determined to be too intoxicated to care for his own safety. The warrant was confirmed and the subject was arrested for public intoxication and the warrant.

Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence Investigation
December 3 at 4:19 a.m., officers responded to a traffic collision in the 2600 block of California. A driver struck a telephone pole, cutting his vehicle in half. The driver was taken to a hospital for treatment and an officer responded to have blood drawn for a DUI investigation. The investigation is continuing.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
December 3 at 6:32 p.m., employees at a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington called police to report a subject that was a causing a disturbance at the location. Officers responded and contacted the subject, who was found to be in possession of a pipe used for smoking methamphetamine. He was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia. He was later released on a citation to appear in court on the charges. 

Man Killed in Bar Shooting Identified

The 43-year-old man who was killed at the Gem City Grill has been identified as Michael Lowe, a Monrovia resident, according to the coroner's office. https://goo.gl/uA6t94

Update: A GoFundMe page has been set up for the funeral expenses of Michael Lowe: https://goo.gl/jrcgw1

- Brad Haugaard

Horse Drawn Carriage Rides in Old Town Monrovia

Horse drawn carriage rides have begun in Old Town Monrovia for the Christmas season. Gem City Images has a picture and details about how to take a ride: https://goo.gl/XxhYEe

- Brad Haugaard

Police Search for Suspect in Bar Killing

Police are looking for a adult Hispanic man as suspect in Gem City Grill shooting. Police surrounded a home on West Olive but apparently did not make any arrest. The shooting left one man dead and two wounded.  https://goo.gl/tM1Dj5

- Brad Haugaard 

Man Killed, Two Injured This Morning at Monrovia Bar

One man was killed and two injured in a shooting just after midnight this morning at Gem City Grill, on the north side of Olive just east of Myrtle.  https://goo.gl/LTrdwT

- Brad Haugaard

City Council: $500 Rebate for Home Security Systems; Ban Additional Food-Styrofoam From City Facilities

At its next meeting (https://goo.gl/F13rp3) the Monrovia City Council will consider ...

~ Setting aside $100,000 to fund a program in which the city would kick in up to $500 per home to reimburse homeowners for "alarm systems, security cameras, home protection devices, and other related products." If you already have a security system, sorry, the offer is not retroactive. Why? Because, "Monrovia, like many communities throughout California, has experienced an alarming increase in crime." https://goo.gl/iBj488

~ Banning any additional use of expanded polystyrene ("Styrofoam") food products at city facilities. Why? Because - the staff report says - it is "a major source of litter and marine pollution, which frequently clogs storm drains and waterways throughout our region. Furthermore, as a non-biodegradable and non-recyclable plastic, expanded polystyrene has the potential of continuing to persist in the environment for hundreds to thousands of years if not managed properly." https://goo.gl/sp2c6H

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Peach Cafe



Had lunch yesterday at Peach Cafe, on the north side of Colorado just west of Ivy. Got the chicken sandwich with scalloped potatoes for $12  and an iced tea for $2.75. Pleasant atmosphere and food was very tasty. That pancake-looking thing, by the way, is the scalloped potatoes. 

- Brad Haugaard