News: brad.haugaard@gmail.com   •  Restaurants   •  Library Catalog   •  Library Activities  •  History   •  Facebook / X/Twitter / RSS

Monrovia Police: Too Close to Library Park; Drunks, Drugs and Shoplifting; Scratchers; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for Highlighted Activity for January 24–30. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 401 service events, resulting in 102 investigations.

Shoplifting
January 24 at 7:06 p.m., an employee from a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain called to report that two male subjects entered the store, selected several tools and left without paying. Both suspects ran to a vehicle, which was occupied by a female driver. All of the suspects fled with the items. The vehicle license plate number was obtained by an employee. The investigation is continuing.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 24 at 11:49 p.m., an officer was conducting extra patrol in the 500 block of W. Huntington, when he stopped a subject on a bicycle for a vehicle code violation. The subject was found to have multiple warrants for his arrest and was taken into custody per the authority of the warrants.

Grand Theft Auto
January 25 at 7:12 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 900 block of W. Walnut. The victim reported his green, 1998 Toyota Corolla was stolen sometime during the night while it was parked in front of his residence. Investigation continuing.

Violation of Court Order
January 25 at 8:15 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 100 block of W. Palm when he observed a known subject who was recently placed on probation and issued a 100 yard stay-away order from Library Park. The subject was detained, a report was taken and a warrant will be requested.

Grand Theft Auto
January 25 at 3:54 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from a business parking lot in the 400 block of W. Huntington. The victim parked his vehicle in front of a business and left the keys on the front seat. She went into a business for a short time, and when she returned, she discovered her car had been stolen. Officers searched the area, but did not locate the suspect or vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
January 25 at 6:47 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 700 block of W. Huntington. The victim parked her vehicle in front of a business and went inside. She returned a short time later and discovered a window to her vehicle had been smashed and items were missing. Investigation continuing.

Bicycle Theft
January 25 at 7:22 p.m., a resident in the 1200 block of S. Magnolia called to report his bicycle was stolen from an unsecured carport area on the property. Investigation continuing.

Public Intoxication/Warrant – Suspects Arrested
January 25 at 9:51 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 1600 block of S. Myrtle when he saw two people walking who appeared to be intoxicated. The officer detained the subjects and determined they were unable to care for their own safety. They were arrested and held for a sobering period. One of the subjects also had an outstanding warrant for his arrest.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
January 26 at 3:26 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 100 block of W. Lime when he saw a vehicle traveling the wrong direction on a one-way street. A traffic stop was conducted. The driver was found to be intoxicated, and after field sobriety tests were conducted, he was arrested for DUI.

Possession of a Controlled Substance/Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
January 26 at 8:48 a.m., an officer observed a bicyclist commit a vehicle code infraction and conducted a traffic stop. The subject consented to a search of his person and his backpack. The officer found drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine in the subject's backpack. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 26 at 5:12 p.m., an officer responded to the 400 block of S. Myrtle regarding an injury traffic collision. The caller reported that a slow-speed traffic collision occurred between a vehicle and a pedestrian. The pedestrian was taken to a local hospital for treatment. Investigation continuing.

Shoplifting/Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
January 26 at 7:09 p.m., an employee from a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington called to report that a female walked into the store and concealed a bottle of perfume in her purse. She exited the store without paying for the merchandise and was detained by officers. The suspect was arrested, and during a search incident to arrest, she was in found to be in possession of burglary tools and drug paraphernalia.

Driving Under the Influence/Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
January 26 at 9:15 p.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop in the 900 block of W. Duarte for a vehicle code violation. During the stop, the officer could smell alcohol emitting from the driver. The driver was intoxicated, and after field sobriety tests were conducted, he was arrested for DUI.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
January 27 at 12:49 a.m., a caller reported a loud argument coming from a residence in the 700 block of W. Foothill. Officers arrived and spoke with a male and female subject, who are boyfriend and girlfriend. They were at local bar drinking with friends and they got into an argument. When they returned home, the argument escalated into a physical altercation and the female scratched the male subject’s face, causing physical injury. She was arrested for domestic violence.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
January 27 at 9:18 a.m., an employee from a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain called police to report a subject known for shoplifting at nearly a dozen other locations was in the store with an accomplice and hiding merchandise. Officers responded and coordinated a perimeter in the parking lot, and when the subjects tried to flee in a vehicle, they were detained safely. The known suspect was arrested for shoplifting.

Warrants/Possession of a Controlled Substance/Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
January 27 at 9:44 a.m., a resident in the 100 of N. Alta Vista reported a suspicious male subject looking around the area. Officers arrived and located the subject. The subject provided his identifying information and police dispatch discovered he had two outstanding warrants for his arrest. During a search of the subject, he was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
January 27 at 8:51 p.m., a caller reported a domestic disturbance in the 300 block of Linwood. Officers arrived and spoke with the family. The investigation revealed the wife came home intoxicated and started arguing with the husband. During the argument, the wife began hitting the husband and grabbed a kitchen knife. He ran into the bedroom and closed the door. The wife dropped the knife and the husband came out of the room. When the husband attempted to leave the house, the wife started pushing him and the mother-in-law intervened and started fighting with the wife. The wife was arrested for domestic battery and brandishing a knife.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
January 28 at 9:33 a.m., a motorist reported his vehicle had just been struck by another motorist in the 700 block of W. Walnut. The other motorist failed to stop and fled the area. Officers arrived and searched for the suspect, but were unable to locate him. The victim was not injured. This investigation is continuing.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
January 28 at 12:09 p.m., a traffic collision was reported at the intersection of Greystone and Canyon, which has a four way stop. Officers responded to investigate. No one was injured in the collision. The driver at fault was issued a citation.

Telephone Fraud
January 28 at 1:37 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of W. Scenic reported he had been receiving several calls from various people claiming he owed them money. The resident believed he had provided one of the callers his bank account information to cover the cost of what he thought he owed; however, no money had been taken from the account. Officers advised the resident to change his bank account numbers, which he did.

Shoplifting/Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 29 at 1:36 p.m., an employee from a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain called police to report a male subject was cutting security tags off of items. As the subject tried to leave, a loss prevention employee stopped him and escorted him to their office. Officers arrived and arrested the subject for shoplifting. He was also found to have an outstanding warrant for his arrest.

Warrants/Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspects Arrested
January 29 at 5:04 p.m., an employee from a business in the 900 block of W. Foothill called police to report a female subject that entered the store, concealed items and left without paying. Officers responded and saw a female matching the description and a male subject. The two were detained, but no theft could be established. A computer check revealed both subjects had outstanding warrants for their arrest, and the female had syringes in her possession. Both subjects were arrested.

Attempt Robbery
January 29 at 9:19 p.m., an attempt robbery was reported in the 100 block of W. Cherry. The victim called to report that while he was sitting in his vehicle with his girlfriend, a male subject in dark clothing approached them and demanded their phones and wallets. The male victim exited his vehicle and was scratched on the face with an unknown object. The suspect fled on foot without any property. Investigation continuing.

Commerical Burglary
January 30 at 1:36 p.m., an employee from a business in the 400 block of W. Maple reported a burglary to the business. An unknown suspect entered the business through a broken window from a previous burglary during closing hours. The suspect stole items and fled on a scooter, wearing a red ball cap with a white logo on the bill. Investigation continuing.

Should Monrovia Raise Its Sales Tax?

In his State of the City speech, Mayor Tom Adams proposed a sales tax increase for the city to preempt what he thinks the county will do.

The idea as I understand it is this: There is a legal limit on how much sales tax can be collected - 10.25% max I believe - so if the County approves another sales tax - which Adams believes is likely - then the money will go to LA County instead of to Monrovia, and the city will get very little of it back. However, if the city maxes out its tax rate first, then the city would get 100% of the new tax and the county would get zip.

Currently, I understand, the total sales tax in Monrovia is 9.5%.

Hmm. What do you think?

- Brad Haugaard

Save a Buck on Water

With the chance of rain high later this week i think I’ll switch off our sprinklers. Save a bit of water and maybe a few bucks.

Since the city is particularly concerned about water usage perhaps it should post “Remember to turn off your sprinklers” reminders when rain is anticipated. Just a thought...

- Brad Haugaard 

Hidden Trail Above Monrovia

If you look at a map of the Hillside Wilderness Area it appears the short hike from the top of Highland Place does not connect with the rest of the preserve - but it does!

There is an unmarked walking trail (roughly where I’ve drawn the green line) connecting the two. Here’s how to find it. 

Entry point above Highland. 

If you enter on Highland, hike up the road until you get a peek at a section of k-rail on the left (that little white strip in the photo above). When you see the k-rail the trail is just a bit ahead of you on your left (marked by red arrow).

If you enter on Cloverleaf, follow the trail road (It is to your left just as you enter the gate) and when you get to the sign (below) take the "Experienced Trail Users" trail. 

Climb the hill and you’ll encounter a green bench (below). Just a few feet past the bench on the uphill side the trail branches off to your left (shown by red arrow).


There is one short but rather steep section on this connecting trail, so be prepared. There are always dangers in the mountains and I’m not recommending you take this hike so if you decide to do it it is entirely your decision. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Disco Fundraiser for Mayflower PTA

Get on your boogie shoes and bellbottoms and head to the disco to benefit the kids at Mayflower Elementary school. This adult only event will include dinner, a silent auction, and dancing. All are encouraged to dress the part, and to get in the groove, on April 27, from 6pm-10pm. The event will be held at the Santa Anita Golf Course at 405 South Anita Avenue.

All party lovers are invited to help celebrate with flashing lights and disco balls to raise funds to enhance children’s education at Mayflower Elementary School located in Monrovia, California. “Money from this event will assist with literacy programs, afford to send children on field trips and assist with ensuring classrooms have needed supplies” said Sarah Edgington, Mayflower PTA president.” We invite all the community to help their local school by joining us on this groovy night,” she added.

Ticket prices are $50 a person and $85 a couple and can be purchased at https://mayflowerdisco19.eventbrite.com. Sponsorships and volunteer opportunities are also available. For more information, to give a donation or to learn more about how you can support Mayflower PTA, visit the Mayflower PTA Facebook page at Mayflower PTA, email mayflowerpta@gmail.com, or call 7609088058.

Source: Press release

- Brad Haugaard

Koby is Always Ready for a Walk - and a Forever Home


This is Koby (A469484), a very sweet black and white Chihuahua. He is very eager to put on his leash and go for walks that he practically leashes himself! Koby likes spending time with people and enjoys showing and receiving affection. He is a good boy and knows his sit command well. Volunteers and staff say that Koby is an overall sweet dog who loves interacting with others. Everyone is rooting for this sweet boy to soon find the forever home that he deserves.

The adoption fee for dogs is $140. All dogs are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated before going to their new home.

New adopters will receive a complimentary health-and-wellness exam from VCA Animal Hospitals, as well as a goody bag filled with information about how to care for your pet.

View photos of adoptable pets at pasadenahumane.org. Adoption hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email.

- Brad Haugaard

More Homeless - But a Few More or a Lot More? State of the Chamber

Preliminary homeless data.

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

~ Depending on how you look at it, Monrovia's preliminary homeless count shows the number of homeless in the city is up either a lot or a little - from 9 in 2018 to 18 in 2019, or from 14 in 2017 to 18 in 2019. Why discount 2018? Chi says it was "brutally cold" during the 2018 count, which "many experts have indicated depressed the numbers." Also, a lot fewer people living in RVs, from 33 in 2018 to 14 this year.

~ The Monrovia Chamber of Commerce will hold it State of the Chamber event on Thursday, Jan. 31, from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m., at the Wine of the Month Club to share what it has planned for 2019. It's free. Details: https://goo.gl/KmHanU

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Association of Fine Arts Pre-Valentine Buffet

Monrovia Association of Fine Arts (MAFA) invites the public to enjoy a pre-Valentine buffet supper, musical cabaret and art show on Feb. 10, 5 to 8 p.m. at Myrtle Tree Café, 405 S. Myrtle Ave in Old Town Monrovia.

MAFA's “Heart in the Arts” Cabaret & Art Show will feature live musical acts from Centre Stage Productions and an art display and sale from MAFA member artists.

The event will also feature MAFA’s annual awards presentation of the Heart in the Arts Award and the Renaissance Award, recognizing individuals within MAFA and in the community who have gone above and beyond in their arts leadership. In addition, the group will recognize its generous sponsors: Arcadia Association of Realtors Darrell Brooke at Monrovia Trust, Gentile McCloskey & Company, Monrovia Fellowship, Paint ‘n’ Play Art Studio and Pari Passu Café. Ticket sales and a 50/50 raffle will benefit MAFA’s kids art educational programs.

The buffet dinner menu will feature bruschetta appetizers, vegetable minestrone soup, mixed greens salad, penne pasta with chardonnay butter sauce, chicken marsala over rice, and organic iced tea and coffee. Guests can also enjoy a no-host wine and beer bar.

Tickets are $25.00 and available now at heartinthearts.eventbrite.com. Space is limited to 70 people so attendees should buy tickets as soon as possible. Ticket price at the door will be $35.00. For more information, call (626) 483-0560.

- Brad Haugaard

Wildcat Theater to Perform 'In the Heights'

Coming up at Monrovia High's Wildcat Theater will be "In the Heights,"  March 22, 23, and 29, 30, from 7-9 p.m.  "In the washington Heights neighborhood of Manhattan, a young store owner watches the joys and heartbreaks of this tight-knit community pass through his bodega." Bodega = little grocery store in Spanish speaking neighborhood. https://goo.gl/zd6M4Q

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at X2O Cafe

Lunch at X2O Cafe and Hookah Lounge, on the north side of Foothill just west of Melrose. Got the Chicken Schawarma Sandwich for $10 and an iced tea for $3. Delish! And friendly, prompt service. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: Drunk Rolls Car; Drunk Mistakes Monrovia for Pasadena; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for Highlighted Activity for January 17–23. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 397 service events, resulting in 71 investigations.

Possession of a Controlled Substance / Weapon Offense – Suspect Arrested
January 17 at 12:16 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 600 block of S. Myrtle when he stopped a bicyclist for vehicle code violations. The stop led to a search of the subject and the officer found methamphetamine, a methamphetamine smoking pipe and a throwing star in the subject’s possession. The subject was arrested and later released with a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 17 at 11:39 a.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 1500 block of S. Mayflower. Two motorists had collided into one another, which caused one of the vehicles to collide into two parked vehicles. Officers and paramedics arrived to treat the subjects with complaint of pain. The investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
January 18 at 11:12 a.m., a caller reported a subject in the 300 block of S. Primrose who was possibly urinating in the street. Officers arrived and contacted the subject. They found the subject was heavily intoxicated and unable to care for his own safety. He was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Theft of Package
January 18 at 1:34 p.m., a resident in the 900 block of California called police to report that an unknown suspect stole a package from his front porch. The investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Warrants – Suspect Arrested
January 18 at 6:11 p.m., an employee from a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington called police to report a female subject that concealed merchandise inside a backpack and left without paying. Officers arrived and located the subject. She was found to be in possession of the stolen property, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. A computer check revealed she also had a parole violation and warrants for her arrest. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Vandalism
January 19 at 1:49 a.m., a resident in the 800 block of W. Foothill called to report that one of the windows to his apartment was smashed. The resident said an unknown subject threw eggs at his apartment window, which shattered the window. The subject left in a gray Honda prior to police arriving. Investigation continuing.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 19 at 7:55 a.m., an employee from a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington called to report a shoplifter was being detained by loss prevention. Officers arrived and located drug paraphernalia on the subject. A computer check also revealed the subject had an outstanding warrant. The subject was arrested.

Warrant / Burglary / Fraud – Suspect Arrested
January 19 at 2:24 p.m., an employee from a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington called police to report a subject who shoplifted. Officers arrived and detained the subject. A computer check revealed the subject had warrants for his arrest. He was arrested and found to be in possession of a wallet containing other people’s credit cards and identification. The officers were able to confirm the subject had committed a burglary in Arcadia, where he stole the wallet containing the credit cards and the victim’s identification. Investigation continuing.

Vandalism / Possession of Narcotics for Sale – Suspects Arrested
January 19 at 9:20 p.m., a passerby saw four male subjects in front of a business in the 100 block of W. Duarte, and one of the subjects wrote graffiti on the wall with a green marker. The passerby called the police, who responded and located one of the possible subjects. No marker was found, but the subject was in possession of narcotics for sales and a replica gun. He was arrested without incident. Officers went back to the business and viewed video surveillance. Officers located a second subject who matched the subject in the video. He was also arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
January 20 at 3:06 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of N. Myrtle called police to report a motorist that had crashed and the vehicle had rolled over. The motorist was driving north on Myrtle and clipped a parked vehicle, causing the vehicle to roll over. The driver was found to be intoxicated and had minor injuries. After field sobriety tests were conducted, he was arrested for DUI.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
January 20 at 12:42 p.m., a caller reported two motorists that collided in the 300 block of W. Duarte at the intersection of Magnolia. Officers responded to investigate the collision and found that no one was injured. Both motorists chose to exchange information, but did not desire a police report.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
January 20 at 1:11 p.m., police dispatch received a call reporting a male subject passed out in a parked vehicle in the 100 block of N. Myrtle. The caller believed the subject may be in need of medical attention. Officers responded and found the subject was heavily intoxicated. He thought he was in Pasadena and did not know what day it was. The subject had a court ordered breath tester to start the vehicle. After it was determined that he did not need medical attention, he was arrested for public intoxication and held for a sobering period.

Stalking / Violation of Court Order – Suspect Arrested
January 20 at 5:12 p.m., an officer was completing an investigation from a report of stalking that has been occurring primarily at a business in the 400 block of S. Myrtle. He called the victim to obtain further information and was told the suspect was in front of the business. Officers responded and took custody of the suspect, who has a restraining order against him that prohibits him from being near the victim. The suspect had violated the restraining order three times in the past few days. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Commercial Burglary
January 21 at 9:21 a.m., a commercial burglary was reported at a business in the 2100 block of S. Myrtle. The victim rents a storage unit at the business and called to report the latch on her storage container was broken. It is unknown if anything was missing. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
January 22 at 8:42 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of S. Mountain called to report his vehicle was stolen. He parked his vehicle in front of his residence on the street the previous night. He locked the doors and rolled up all the windows. When he returned the next morning, he discovered his vehicle was gone. There was no glass on the ground and all keys were accounted for. Investigation continuing.

Shoplifting
January 22 at 11:06 a.m., an employee from a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain called police to report a male Hispanic suspect who came into the store and selected a power drill. He made no attempt to pay for the item as he left the location. He ran to a vehicle and fled the location, heading east through the parking lot. As he was leaving, the employee was able to get his license plate number. Investigation continuing.

Vandalism
January 23 at 11:12 a.m., a resident in the 500 block of Sombrero reported her granddaughter’s boyfriend had just shattered one of the house windows, and then ran. Officers responded and searched for the suspect, but were unable to locate him. The granddaughter told officers that her now ex-boyfriend became upset over the telephone. He then showed up at the home and broke the window. This investigation is continuing.

Traffic Collision
January 23 at 12:42 p.m., a motorist called police to report he had just collided with another vehicle in the parking lot of a business in the 900 block of W. Foothill. He believed the other motorist did not have a license, because they refused to provide it. Officers responded and found that both parties had a license and insurance, and no one was injured. Officers facilitated the exchange of information.

Traffic Collision
January 23 at 2:34 p.m., a traffic collision was reported involving two motorists in the 3300 block of S. Peck. No one appeared injured. Officers responded and confirmed there were no injuries. Both drivers exchanged information with one another and did not desire a collision report to be filed.

Wounded Warrior Parking Spots; Homeless Prevention Program Working Well; State of City; Etc.


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

~ Monrovia is considering an American Legion suggestion request to install up to four Wounded Warrior Veteran parking spaces in Old Town, one on Palm between the Community Center and the Library, one of Lime between the Library and the Lime Parking Lot, one in front of City Hall, and one somewhere in the 400 block of Myrtle.

~ Initial results of Monrovia's Housing Displacement Response Program, designed to help prevent homelessness for existing Monrovia residents, "have exceeded every expectation that we had when the program was first launched." Twelve families have been helped since the program started in mid-2018. The city is partnering with Mountainside Communion Church, which runs the program, which only provides help "after a thorough review process."

~  You can attend the annual State of the City Address. It'll be on Monday, Jan. 28, at Studio Movie Grill, at 7 p.m.

~ Monrovia has won a 2018 California Park & Recreation Society Award for its Monrovia Today quarterly newsletter. The award recognizes outstanding achievement in multiple parks and recreation areas, including marketing and communication. The city will be recognized at the annual Recognition Banquet in March in Sacramento.

~  Scheduled for Black History Month: Jazz Brunch Featuring Nolan Shaheed Quintet, Feb. 2, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Monrovia Community Center, Tickets: $32; Children's Art Festival & Dinner, Feb. 7, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Monrovia High; Black History Luncheon, Feb. 23, 1 to 3 p.m., Monrovia Community Center, Tickets: $20. Tickets at Simply Divine Salon, 319 W. Huntington Dr., Monrovia.

~ Caltrans will soon be cleaning up its property along Evergreen Avenue, mostly between Mayflower and Primrose avenues.

- Brad Haugaard

Hillside Areas Closed - Rain Damage

The Monrovia city web site is announcing that, “Canyon Park and the Hillside Wilderness Preserve will remain closed until further notice.”

I spoke with a park volunteer today who told me the rains have messed up the trails and they’re unsafe. She guesstimated they’ll be open by next week, though I got the sense it might be earlier if all goes well.

UPDATE: I spoke to a city official this morning who said the city hopes to have the park and preserve open by tomorrow, Thursday.

- Brad Haugaard 

Plymouth Kindergarten Student Wins Make-A-Wish Trip to Disneyland

Make-A-Wish Foundation gives Plymouth Elementary kindergarten student Addison Iylah MacLellan a family trip to Disneyland. https://goo.gl/NhvuM8

- Brad Haugaard

Sawpit Dam - How Times Change


I just came across these December 2010 pictures of Monrovia's Sawpit Dam overflowing. Even with the recent rain, these days the dam is still virtually empty. Times have certainly changed.

- Brad Haugaard


Apartment Didn't Allow Pets, So Patches Can Be Yours


Meet Patches (A470134), a 7-year-old domestic shorthair who found his way to Pasadena Humane when his owner had to move to an apartment that didn’t allow pets. He came in a bit shy and wouldn’t approach the kennel when visitors came around. In the last month, however, he has slowly come out of his shell and now will hop out of his bed when a visitor comes by. He likes to be petted from head to tail and head bump your hand for more. He’s looking for someone with pets, treats, and the offer of a forever home.

The adoption fee for cats is $90. All cats are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated before being adopted.

New adopters will receive a complimentary health-and-wellness exam from VCA Animal Hospitals, as well as a goody bag filled with information about how to care for your pet.

View photos of adoptable pets at pasadenahumane.org. Adoption hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email.

- Brad Haugaard

Philip Heng to be Honored as Educator of the Year

At its next meeting (https://goo.gl/swBE7V) the Monrovia Board of Education ...

~ Will honor teacher Philip Heng on being named "Educator of the Year," by the California League of Schools.

~ Will consider hiring On-Site Welding & Construction for $23,901 to manufacture and install wrought iron fencing on the east side of Bradoaks Elementary School.

~ Will, together with the Chamber of Commerce, honor Employees of the Month for January:  Jennifer Dana, Teacher at Mayflower Elementary; Cherie Holguin, Instructional Aide at Plymouth Elementary; and Sheena Rehaume, Teacher at Plymouth Elementary.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia School District: Spending More than It's Taking In

A final audit shows that Monrovia School District is spending more money than it is taking in. It appears that in 2018 the district spent about $3 million more than it brought in, and it brought in less than it did the year before: $78 million vs. $82 million in 2017, so it has cut expenses. Also, this is a smaller loss than in 2017, when it spent $3.8 million more than it brought it. I'm not an accountant, however, and if someone with more expertise would like the give the audit a look, it is here: https://goo.gl/SYAc6b

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Nano Cafe


Lunch at Nano Cafe, near the northeast corner of Duarte and Mayflower. Got the Cobb Salad for $12.99 and a coffee for $2.79. Tasty, filling, and cheerful service.

- Brad Haugaard

Goodbye Water

Sawpit Wash. pity to see all that nice water rolling away. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: Harassing Text Messages; Daughter vs. Mother; Stolen Car Parked Next to Police Station; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for Highlighted Activity for January 10-16. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 397 service events, resulting in 90 investigations.

Possession of Burglary Tools – Suspect Arrested
January 10 at 9:14 a.m., a resident in the 600 block of W. Foothill called to report a suspicious person in the laundry room of their apartment complex. Officers responded and located the subject. The subject was recently released from custody and is on probation. During a search of his person, a counterfeit key used to open mailboxes was discovered. He was arrested for possession of a burglary tools.

Drug Possession / Warrant – Suspects Arrested
January 10 at 8:39 p.m., an officer conducted a traffic stop at Ivy and Huntington for a traffic violation. During the traffic stop, it was discovered that the driver had a suspended license and was in possession of methamphetamine. A computer check revealed the passenger had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. Both subjects were arrested and taken into custody.

Fraud / Drug Possession / Warrant – Suspects Arrested
January 11 at 1:00 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 400 block of W. Foothill when he saw two suspicious subjects loitering in the parking lot. Officers contacted the subjects and discovered both were in possession of drug paraphernalia, a large quantity of mail addressed to over 40 different locations, and bank cards/checks in other person's names. The two subjects were arrested and taken into custody.

Vehicle Burglary
January 11 at 1:28 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 700 block of W. Huntington. The victim called to report his vehicle was broken into while he was inside a business. An unknown suspect smashed one of the vehicle windows and took the victim’s wallet. Investigation continuing.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
January 11 at 1:58 a.m., an officer responded to a domestic violence report at a residence in the 1900 block of S. Peck. The victim called to report her husband had scratched and strangled her, and then left the location in a vehicle. Officers arrived and conducted an investigation. Later that morning, an officer located the suspect's vehicle driving south of the location. A high-risk stop was conducted and the suspect was arrested and taken into custody without incident.

Theft / Restraining Order Violation – Suspect Arrested
January 11 at 7:27 a.m., a gardener working in the 200 block of W. Palm saw a male subject steal his leaf blower and walk into the common area of an apartment complex. Officers arrived and knew of a possible suspect, based on the description provided by the victim. Officers conducted a door knock at an apartment and spoke with the female resident. She eventually admitted her ex-boyfriend stole the leaf blower and was hiding upstairs. The victim of the theft did not want prosecution, but the suspect was arrested for being in violation of an active, domestic violence restraining order.

Grand Theft Auto
January 11 at 8:21 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 200 block of S. Fifth regarding the report of a stolen vehicle. The resident had parked her vehicle in the carport at the location and it was stolen sometime overnight. The investigation is continuing.

Violation of Court Order – Suspect Arrested
January 11 at 9:20 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of N. Garfield called to report she had a domestic violence restraining order against her ex-boyfriend and he was sending her harassing text messages. Officers reviewed the text messages and contacted the ex-boyfriend. He initially denied the allegation and said the phone number was not his, but officers proved that to be false. Eventually, the subject admitted he sent the text message, and he was arrested for violating the restraining order.

Vehicle Burglary
January 11 at 3:32 p.m., an officer responded to the report of a vehicle burglary at a business parking lot in the 600 block of W. Huntington. While the victim was inside a business, an unknown suspect broke into her vehicle and took her purse. The suspect gained entry to the vehicle by smashing a window. Investigation continuing.

Attempted Robbery
January 11 at 5:31 p.m., an attempted robbery was reported to police. The victim called to report that while he was walking in the 400 block of S. Myrtle, an unknown, male, Hispanic subject attempted to steal his skateboard through threat of force. When he was unsuccessful, he fled from the area. The investigation is ongoing.

Driving Under the Influence / Public Intoxication – Suspects Arrested
January 12 at 12:16 a.m., a caller reported that a motorist had just crashed into a center divider in the 200 block of W. Duarte. Officers responded and determined it was a solo vehicle collision. The driver was not injured, but was found to be heavily intoxicated. After field sobriety tests were conducted, he was arrested for DUI.

Grand Theft Auto
January 12 at 6:43 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of El Nido called police to report his Toyota 4Runner was stolen overnight. The vehicle was recovered several hours later by the El Monte Police Department. Investigation continuing.

Receiving Stolen Property – Suspect Arrested
January 12 at 8:51 a.m., an officer saw a known subject riding a bicycle in the 200 block of S. Alta Vista. The bicycle matched the description of one that had been reported stolen on January 10. He stopped the bicyclist and determined it was the stolen bike. The subject was arrested for being in possession of stolen property and the bicycle was returned to the owner.

Theft From a Vehicle
January 12 at 9:39 a.m., a resident in the 500 block of Norumbega called to report a theft from his vehicle that occurred overnight. He left his vehicle unlocked, and in the morning, he discovered some clothing that was left inside had been stolen. Investigation continuing.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered / No-Bail Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 12 at 7:52 p.m., an employee from a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain called police to report a possible shoplifting in progress. One subject fled on foot prior to the officers arriving and dropped the stolen merchandise. A second subject was attempting to flee in a vehicle, but was stopped by officers. The investigation revealed the vehicle was stolen and the driver had a no-bail warrant for her arrest. She was arrested and taken into custody. The investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting
January 13 at 11:10 a.m., an employee of a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington called police to report a male subject in his twenties that had just walked out of the store with merchandise and did not pay. Officers responded, but were unable to locate the subject. The subject had taken five pairs of jeans. This investigation is continuing.

Fraud – Suspect Arrested
January 13 at 4:12 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington regarding a male subject who purchased merchandise using someone else’s credit card. The card number had been put into his cellphone, which was used to complete the transaction. The suspect left the store with the merchandise and fled in a vehicle driven by another male subject. Officers arrived and stopped the vehicle. The suspect was arrested and the stolen property was returned to the store. The suspect also had several warrants for his arrest.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
January 14 at 1:30 a.m., an employee from a business in the 400 block of W. Foothill called police to report several intoxicated subjects inside the location. Officers arrived and found one of the subjects was heavily intoxicated and unable to care for his own safety, so he was arrested for public intoxication and taken into custody.

Vehicle Burglary
January 14 at 5:06 a.m., a resident in the 1100 block of S. Fifth called to report that someone had broken into his vehicle. A window was broken and power tools were taken from the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Theft from an Innkeeper
January 14 at 8:06 a.m., an employee from a business in the 400 block of W. Duarte called to report that a customer entered the establishment, ordered food, enjoyed her meal and left without paying. Officers arrived, but the subject had already left. Investigation continuing.

Battery – Suspect Arrested
January 14 at 11:47 a.m., a male resident in the 500 block of W. Colorado called to report that his sister was at the location and was fighting with his mother. Officers arrived, conducted an investigation, and the mother placed the sister under private persons arrest. The suspect was arrested for battery and taken into custody.

Theft From a Vehicle
January 14 at 8:02 p.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported at a residence in the 800 block of E. Lime. The resident was unloading her vehicle in front of her residence and made several trips back and forth, leaving the vehicle unlocked. When she was finished, she noticed her laptop had been stolen from inside the vehicle. Investigation continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 15 at 12:33 p.m., a traffic collision involving three motorists was reported in the 1800 block of S. Duarte. Officers and Monrovia Paramedics arrived and found two of the parties were injured. They were taken to local hospitals for treatment. One of the vehicles was traveling west and the other was traveling south. They both claimed they had a green light. The third party advised they weren't paying attention and were struck by one of the other vehicles. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto Recovery – Suspect Arrested
January 16 at 10:10 a.m., police dispatch received a report of a stolen vehicle that was traveling north on Myrtle in the downtown area. Officers located the vehicle with the help of the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department helicopter. The vehicle turned east onto Lime and parked near the Monrovia Police Department. Officers responded and detained the two occupants inside the vehicle, a female passenger and a male driver. The passenger was identified and released, and the driver was arrested. The stolen vehicle was returned to the owner.

Presentation on Founder of Oldest African-American Architecture Firm in LA

On Martin Luther King Day, this Sunday, Jan. 20, from 1-2 p.m., the Monrovia Historical Museum (742 E. Lemon) will host a program on Monrovia's Robert Kennard, founder of the oldest African-American architecture firm in Los Angeles. Details and registration: https://goo.gl/1ULuEf

- Brad Haugaard

BurgerIM Opening in Monrovia; Dal-A-Ride Will be for Disabled Only; Etc.

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

~  A new burger restaurant, BurgerIM, will in the retail space at the Areum Apartment complex (Fifth and Huntington). The restaurant offers a variety of toppings, proteins, sauces, and buns, so that customers can create their own combinations. https://goo.gl/jcksD8

~  Monrovia's Dial-a-Ride program will soon be for disabled people only (others use Lyft) and they will have to register before using the service. You can do that here: https://goo.gl/h6m3qt. There will be a community meeting about this Tuesday, Jan. 22, from 5:00-6:30 p.m. in the Library Community Room.

~ The annual State of the City Address is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 28, at Studio Movie Grill in Old Town, at 7 p.m.

~  City staff and local service providers have developed a Homeless Response Kit to provide tangible ways Monrovians can assist the homeless. Here it is: https://goo.gl/yoMKzq

~  Members of Monrovia Historic Preservation group spent three months last summer getting permission from 44 owners of pre-1888 homes to put 8" wide by 6" high brass plaques placed on their homes, identifying them as "First Houses."

~ A Senior Resource and Wellness Fair will be held Thursday, Jan. 17 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Monrovia Community Center. Flu shots, pulmonary testing, blood pressure screenings, information on transportation, senior housing, at-home care and more. Call the Community Center at 256-8246 for more information.

~ Assemblymember Holden is looking for nominees for his Woman of the Year award. Last day to submit a nomination is Wednesday, Jan. 30. Nomination form here: https://goo.gl/tN9qQz

- Brad Haugaard

Aries - Young at Heart


Aries (A469666) is a sweet 9-year-old dog with an attitude of a puppy. He's a little shy when you first meet him, and tends to hide in his den when there is a lot of noise, but he warms up quickly. He likes the attention of others, especially volunteers who come into his kennel with a lot of treats, and likes to be petted. He’s an obedient dog who knows the sit and down commands and knows shake! Aries is eager to find his forever home and family so he can start cuddling all day long!

The adoption fee for dogs is $140. All dogs are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated before going to their new home.

New adopters will receive a complimentary health-and-wellness exam from VCA Animal Hospitals, as well as a goody bag filled with information about how to care for your pet.

View photos of adoptable pets at pasadenahumane.org. Adoption hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email.

- Brad Haugaard

Hazardous Waste Roundup Jan. 26


There will be a hazardous waste roundup Saturday, Jan. 26, From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Millennium Center, at the northwest corner of Myrtle and Huntington. (Enter on eastbound Huntington.)

Acceptable:

Motor oil, antifreeze, paint, paint thinner
Turpentine, cleaners with acids or lye
Pesticides and herbicides
Household and car batteries
Old computers and television sets
Sharps or used needles
Expired pharmaceuticals and mercury thermometers

Unacceptable:

Explosives, ammunition or radioactive materials
Waste from businesses
Trash or old tires
White goods such as washers, stoves, refrigerators or air conditioners

Limit of 15 gallons or 125 lbs. per vehicle.
Bring items in a sturdy box, preferably in original labeled containers. Be prepared to leave your containers. Do not mix products.

- Brad Haugaard 

Services for Charlotte Schamadan

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia High Retires Jersey of Former Student Corie Blount

Monrovia High has retired the jersey of former MHS basketball player, Corie Blount, who went on to an NBA career. At a ceremony Blount thanked those who helped him along the way, particularly his former coach, Mel Simms. https://goo.gl/rsuxGe

- Brad Haugaard 

Lunch at 38 Degrees


Lunch at 38 Degrees, on the south side of Colorado about a half block east of Myrtle. Got the Roasted Chicken Sandwich with lentil soup as the side from the lunch menu for $10 and a beer for $7.  Delicious!

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia-Based Trader Joe's Named Top Grocery Store

Monrovia-based Trader Joe's has been selected by shoppers as their top grocery store,  based on its understanding of customer needs, price and quality. Following behind in second and third place are CostCo Wholesale and Amazon. https://goo.gl/N25g64

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Drunk Driving Shopping Cart; Whose Tax Deductions Are These Kids? Robbery With Knife

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for Highlighted Activity for January 3-9. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 372 service events, resulting in 86 investigations.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 3 at 11:30 a.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 900 block of S. California. A vehicle was traveling north on California and failed to stop for the red traffic signal. The vehicle collided into a vehicle that was traveling west on Central. Both parties complained of pain and one was transported to a nearby hospital. The driver at fault was issued a citation.

Grand Theft
January 3 at 6:45 p.m., a grand theft incident was reported at a business in the 900 block of W. Huntington. An unknown male and female suspect picked up a package that did not belong to them. The suspects had the tracking number to the package, which contained computer parts, and were given the package by an employee. This investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary
January 4 at 2:27 a.m., officers responded to a burglary alarm activation at a business in the 100 block of E. Maple. When they arrived, they found the front door had been forced open. They searched the inside of the business, but no one was located. The alarm keypad had been ripped off the interior wall next to the front door. It is unknown what was taken. This investigation is continuing.

Attempt Residential Burglary
January 4 at 2:48 a.m., officers responded to a burglary alarm at an apartment building in the 1100 block of S. Fifth. The maintenance storage room alarm had been activated. When the officers arrived, they found the front door had been damaged. It appeared that someone attempted to force the door open, but was unable to gain entry. Officers searched the area, but did not locate any suspects. This investigation is continuing.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
January 4 at 5:33 p.m., a hit and run traffic collision was reported in the 900 block of E. Evergreen. The victim was traveling east on Evergreen when another vehicle collided into his vehicle and fled east on Evergreen without stopping. The investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 4 at 7:37 p.m., a caller reported a male subject pushing a shopping cart in the middle of the road in the 600 block of S. Myrtle. The subject was yelling at motorists, who had to stop to avoid hitting the subject. Officers arrived and found the subject in the roadway, blocking traffic. He was found to be heavily intoxicated and unable to care for his own safety, so he was arrested and taken into custody.

Possession of Methamphetamine / Fraud – Suspects Arrested
January 4 at 9:31 p.m., officers were patrolling in the area of 500 W. Huntington when they saw a vehicle commit a driving violation, so they stopped the vehicle. The vehicle was occupied by two subjects. The officers found both subjects to be in possession of methamphetamine and credit cards that did not belong to them. Officers were able to locate the owner of the credit cards, who said she has been defrauded out of thousands of dollars recently. Both suspects were arrested and taken into custody.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
January 4 at 11:31 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 2600 block of S. Myrtle when he saw two bicyclists in violation of riding laws. He stopped both subjects and found one of them to be in possession of glass pipes that had been used to smoke methamphetamine. The subject in possession of the pipe was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia, and the other subject was issued a citation for the vehicle code violation.

Driving Under the Influence / Public Intoxication – Suspects Arrested
January 5 at 3:02 a.m., an officer on patrol observed a vehicle in the 3000 block of S. Myrtle exceeding the speed limit by 25 miles per hour. He stopped the vehicle and approached the driver, who he found to be heavily intoxicated. After field sobriety tests were conducted, she was arrested for DUI. There was a passenger in the vehicle who was too intoxicated to care for his own safety, so he was arrested for public intoxication and taken into custody as well.

Violation of Court Order
January 5 at 9:01 a.m., a resident in the 1200 block of Sherman called police to report her adult daughter was on the property, as she has a restraining order against her daughter. The suspect fled onto a nearby property when she saw officers arriving. Officers stayed in the area for an extended period of time, but the suspect was not located. The neighbors on the nearby property completed a No-Trespassing Form against the subject.

Vehicle Burglary
January 5 at 11:37 a.m., an employee at a business in the 400 block of W. Walnut walked outside and saw the front driver-side door of a work truck had been pried open while parked on the street in front of the location. Painting tools and equipment had been taken. Investigation continuing.

Theft by False Pretenses
January 5 at 11:54 a.m., two victims came into the lobby to report a theft. They had hired a woman through WeChat to transport gifts of purses and clothing to their family in another country. The suspect told the victims she travels to and from that country often, and for $100 fee she would transport all of the items for the victims. The suspect provided the victims with a tracking number that she allegedly obtained from the postal service. When the victims discovered their family members never received the gifts, they called the postal service and discovered that the tracking number was not valid. Investigation continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 5 at 2:25 p.m., a caller reported two motorists had just collided into one another at the intersection of Lime and Alta Vista. One of the vehicles was traveling west on Lime and entered the intersection without noticing the vehicle on Alta Vista and the two collided. Both parties complained of pain, but refused transport to a hospital. The party at fault was issued a citation.

Grand Theft / False Identification to Police – Suspect Arrested
January 5 at 3:45 p.m., employees from a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain reported a subject exiting the store without paying for merchandise. An employee saw the suspect in the parking lot and he was detained by officers. The items the subject took were recovered and the suspect was arrested. The suspect initially gave a false name to officers, but was eventually identified.

Possession of Methamphetamine / Warrants – Suspects Arrested
January 6 at 1:52 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 100 block of W. Duarte when he saw two subjects he recognized from previous contacts. A computer check revealed one of the subjects had a warrant for his arrest. Both subjects were stopped and found to be in possession of methamphetamine. One of the subjects had a glass pipe that had been used to smoke methamphetamine. They were both arrested and taken into custody.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
January 6 at 2:40 a.m., a resident in the 700 block of W. Duarte reported a motorist in a white sedan had just collided into his parked car and one of his neighbor’s cars, then left the area without stopping. The caller was inside his home when he heard the collision, then went outside just as the suspect fled the scene. Officers responded and searched for the suspect vehicle, but could not locate it. This investigation is continuing.

Burglary / Resisting a Police Officer – Suspect Arrested
January 7 at 1:08 a.m., officers responded to a business in the 100 block of W. Lime regarding a burglary alarm activation. When they arrived, they heard a suspect inside the location. The suspect fled from the building on foot. As officers attempted to detain him, the suspect fought and punched one of the officers. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody. He was found to be in possession of burglary tools and had moved a safe inside the location.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
January 7 at 4:18 a.m., officers responded to a residence in the 200 block of W. Cherry regarding a male adult causing a disturbance. Officers arrived and saw a subject lying in the front yard, only partially clothed. He was heavily intoxicated to the point he could not care for himself and was arrested. He was held for a sobering period.

Vehicle Burglary
January 7 at 7:54 a.m., a resident in the 600 block of Parkrose called to report someone broke into her vehicle. Her vehicle was parked in the complex overnight. The doors were locked and the windows were rolled up. She came outside the next morning and saw the rear, driver-side window was shattered. Her bag containing a computer was missing. Investigation continuing.

Criminal Threats
January 7, at 4:17 p.m., a resident in the 400 block of Norumbega called police to report that he had been threatened. His grandchildren have been living with him and he claimed them on his taxes last year. The children’s biological father found out and became very upset. He called the grandfather and threatened to shoot him. The investigation is continuing.

Battery
January 9 at 6:37 a.m., a female subject reported she had been battered the day prior at a park in the 300 block of S. Myrtle by a male subject. She stated that the subject approached her from behind while she was walking through the park and grabbed her by her hips. He attempted to start a conversation with her, but she ignored him. She described the subject as a male Black, 5’5”, normal build, with tight curled hair, and carrying a black backpack. The investigation is continuing.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
January 9 at 8:14 a.m., a motorist reported she just collided with another vehicle in the 1500 block of S. Myrtle. Officers responded to investigate. It was found that one motorist bumped the back of a vehicle that was stopped in front of them for a red light. Both parties exchanged information, but did not desire an official report filed.

Domestic Violence
January 9 at 11:32 a.m., a female subject who is homeless came to the police station with her four children to report her husband had hit her four times earlier in the morning. Officers connected her with a women's shelter for her and her children. The officers were unable to contact the husband and the investigation is continuing.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
January 9 at 1:28 p.m., a caller reported three motorists collided into one another in the 1700 block of S. Myrtle. Officers responded and found none of the involved persons were injured. All three motorists exchanged information and did not want a police report filed.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 9 at 5:22 p.m., a caller reported a motorist just collided into an occupied parked vehicle in the 600 block of E. Royal Oaks. Officers responded and contacted the driver and the occupant of the parked vehicle. Both subjects were complaining of pain, so paramedics responded. The driver of the vehicle was suffering from a medical issue and was transported to a nearby hospital. Investigation continuing.

Robbery / Assault with Deadly Weapon
January 9 at 6:17 p.m., dispatch received a call from a victim who reported a male suspect had pulled a knife on him in the 800 block of W. Duarte. Officers arrived and contacted the victim, who stated he had interrupted a female suspect stealing his mail. When he confronted her, a male suspect arrived, brandished a knife and threatened him. The male suspect also sprayed pepper spray on the victim and the two suspects fled on foot. An area search was made, but the suspects were not located. Investigation continuing.

Weapon Offense – Suspect Arrested
January 9 at 6:22 p.m., a caller reported a subject urinating in public in the 800 block of E. Olive. Officers arrived and contacted the subject, who was now sitting in a parked vehicle with another subject. The driver of the vehicle had a large, fixed-blade knife protruding from his pocket. He was arrested for possession of the knife and taken into custody.

Petty Theft / Bench Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 9 at 8:40 p.m., employees from a business in the 100 block of W. Foothill called to report they just detained a female adult for shoplifting. Officers arrived and discovered the female also had several warrants for her arrest. She was arrested for shoplifting and the outstanding warrants.

St. Luke Will Present Evensong in Epiphany

St. Luke Episcopal Church will present its annual Evensong in Epiphany on Sunday, Jan. 20, at 4 p.m. The performance will be officiated by Canon Judith Heffron, with mezzo-soprano Trisha Rivera as cantor. Music will include the Denis Mason Preces and Responses, the Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis by Ralph Vaughan Williams, and the Peter Cornelius anthem The Three Kings, with baritone soloist David Hobbs. The music for the introit, Christ, Mighty Savior, was composed by David Charles Walker, a former interim rector at St. Luke's, who died on Dec. 3 of last year. A freewill offering will be taken, and a wine and cheese reception will follow the program. Epiphany focuses on biblical events revealing the divinity of Jesus. The church is located at California Ave. at Foothill Boulevard.

- Brad Haugaard

Donut Dog - Full of Puppy Energy

Have you always wanted to own a black velvet panther? Look no more! Donut (A469873) is a 1-year-old black Labrador Retriever-Pit Bull mix with excitable puppy energy who loves play time, but is also responsive to commands. He also knows “shake” and looks directly into your eyes when he does it. When he was out on our Wiggle Waggle Waggin’ he did well with nearby dogs, adults and kids. He’s a sweet, very large puppy who needs a patient dog owner to teach him more dog manners and stay active with him. Come visit a staff favorite at the Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA.

The adoption fee for dogs is $140. All dogs are spayed or neutered, microchipped, and vaccinated before going to their new home.

New adopters will receive a complimentary health-and-wellness exam from VCA Animal Hospitals, as well as a goody bag filled with information about how to care for your pet.

View photos of adoptable pets at pasadenahumane.org. Adoption hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email.

- Brad Haugaard

No One-Way Streets for Ivy and Primrose - for Now; Big Rocks and Low Groundwater; Homeless Count; Neighborhood Treasures; Wet Basement

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

~  Monrovia has been denied funding for its "ACTV Monrovia" proposal, which would have installed protected bike lanes and a pedestrian walking paths on (primarily) Primrose and Ivy, making them one-way streets, "to better connect all parts of Monrovia with Old Town and Station Square." Chi said, "staff will continue searching for funding options."

~ Though the LA Regional Water Board has told Monrovia to do groundwater testing at its park-and-ride lot at Station Square, there are problems: "We have repeatedly run into boulders bigger than cars, which has damaged drilling equipment." Also, "groundwater levels have fallen dramatically." Instead of drilling down to 220 feet, "we've found that we are not hitting groundwater until we get down past 300 feet underground."

~  If you would like to participate in Monrovia's homeless count, there will be an orientation session at the Community Center  (119  W. Palm Ave.) at 8 p.m. on Jan. 22. The  count is expected to begin at 9 p.m.

~ The next Neighborhood Treasure to be considered by the Art in Public Places Committee is Francisco Gutierrez and his son, Felix Gutierrez. Francisco opened a cement business in 1925 and did a lot of work in town, including the sidewalks around the former Monrovia Plunge swimming pool. Felix, started a newspaper called Mexican Voice, and asked why Mexican volunteers were considered "white" by the World War II draft board, but "colored" by Monrovia Plunge, school districts, and neighbors.

~  If you are wondering about the storage pods adjacent to the Historic Museum, they are to store stuff from the Historic Museum basement while repairs are being made to the basement, which has been subject to flooding.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's Staar Surgical Expects 37% Annual Growth; 42% Growth for Last Quarter

Monrovia's STAAR Surgical, manufacturer and marketer of implantable lenses and companion delivery systems for the eye, estimates its sales for its fourth quarter - which ended December 28, 2018 - will have increased approximately 42% over the same period for 2017. Total net sales for the fourth quarter are expected to be approximately $31.2 million and total net sales for fiscal 2018 are expected to be approximately $124.0 million, representing approximately 37% growth over fiscal 2017. https://goo.gl/WGzvH8

- Brad Haugaard

Auditions for 'Long After Crystal Night' Feb. 2-4

Auditions for The Jewish Federation's JFed Players' Spring 2019 production of Long After Crystal Night, will be held on Feb. 2, 3, and 4 at the Jewish Federation, 114A Lime Ave., Monrovia, with performances in late April.

Long After Crystal Night by John Herman Shaner, takes place over several days in the life of the Seymour Goldstein household in Beverly Hills, in 1983. Seymour has attended a meeting to determine whether Jewish militants from the Jewish Defense League should be allowed to speak to his B'nai B'rith lodge. The ramifications of this meeting will cause everyone in the family, and those close to it, to confront their roots and question their lives, their history, their future, their motivations, the depths of their assimilation, their relationships with each other and ultimately their personal courage and convictions. Full of humor and emotion, the climax is compelling and satisfying, a play about Everyman for Everyman.

Audition dates and times:
Sunday, Feb. 3, 1:00-3 p.m.
Monday, Feb. 4, 7:00-9 p.m.
Tuesday, Feb. 5, 7:00-9 p.m.
Thursday, Feb. 7, 7 p.m. (if needed for call-backs)

Contact the Jewish Federation at (626) 445-0810 for more information.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Fire in Wheelbarrow; Meth Nudist; Lottery Ticket Switches; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for Highlighted Activity for December 27 – January 2, 2019. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 368 service events, resulting in 78 investigations.

Fraud
December 27 at 3:59 p.m., a resident in the 100 block of N. Alta Vista called to report she was the victim of a phone scam. She received a phone call from an unknown phone number and the person on the other end claimed to be her grandson. The caller told her he needed money, which she sent via gift cards. The victim later learned the subject on the phone was not her grandson.

Traffic Collision
December 27 at 6:15 p.m., a vehicle collision was reported in the 800 block of E. Foothill. From a stop, one motorist moved forward and rear-ended the stopped vehicle in front of them. Information was exchanged and the motorist at fault was issued a citation.

Shoplifting / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
December 27 at 9:02 p.m., an employee of a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington reported an adult female subject had taken clothes into the fitting room, concealed them, and then left the store without paying for the merchandise. Officers arrived on scene and detained the subject outside the store. The merchandise was returned and the subject was arrested for shoplifting. She was also found to be in possession of a pipe that had been used to smoke methamphetamine. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Injury Traffic Collision
December 27 at 9:17 p.m., an officer responded to the report of a traffic collision in the 1500 block of S. Mountain. Both vehicles had been stopped for a red light, when the motorist in the back rolled forward and bumped the vehicle in front. A passenger in the front vehicle complained of neck pain and was transported to a nearby hospital.

Warrant / Possession of Methamphetamine – Suspect Arrested
December 28 at 1:54 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 300 block of S. Myrtle when he saw a male subject he recognized from previous contacts. A computer check revealed the subject had a warrant for his arrest, so he was detained. During a search incident to arrest, the subject was also found to be in possession of methamphetamine. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Grand Theft
December 28 at 3:11 p.m., a grand theft was reported in the 1600 block of S. Mountain. The victim parked his truck in a business parking lot and went inside the business. When he returned, he discovered several tools had been taken from the bed of his truck. Investigation continuing.

Burglary
December 28 at 3:14 p.m., the manager of a business in the 2100 block of S. Myrtle reported that several storage units had been broken into and burglarized. The loss is still being determined. Investigation continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
December 28 at 5:33 p.m., a resident in the 700 block of N. Canyon called to report his locked vehicle had been broken into while it was parked on the street. One of the windows was smashed and his wallet was taken. Investigation continuing.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
December 29 at 12:42 a.m., an officer responded to the report of two motorists that had collided into one another in the 700 block of S. Monterey. Both drivers exchanged insurance and license information. The driver at fault was issued a citation.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
December 29 at 12:58 a.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 500 block of S. Myrtle regarding a female subject in the bar that was heavily intoxicated, smoking in the bar and was refusing to pay her bill. Officers contacted the subject and found she was too intoxicated to care for her own safety. She was arrested and held for a sobering period after she paid her bill.

Fire Assist / Code Enforcement Response / Warrants – Suspects Arrested
December 29 at 9:08 a.m., several callers reported smoke coming from a building in the 800 block of S. Myrtle. Monrovia Fire Department and officers responded. The fire was coming from a make-shift fire pit inside a wheel barrow that was sitting on a piece of carpet on the property. As officers were arriving, two subjects started walking away from the property quickly. They were detained and, after further investigation, arrested for warrants and possession of smoking paraphernalia.

There were several other subjects hanging out on the property and sleeping in tents. Once on the property, officers observed spliced electrical wires laying on the ground that were coming from a power source and were next to a pool of water on the ground. Code Enforcement responded to the location and the entire property was red-tagged and deemed unsafe to occupy. Edison also responded and shut off the power to the property. The investigation is continuing.

Indecent Exposure / Possession of Methamphetamine – Suspect Arrested
December 29 at 7:07 p.m., a guest at a motel in the 1100 block of E. Huntington called police to report a male subject loitering and exposing himself in the motel parking lot. Officers responded and contacted the subject. He was detained and also found to be in possession of methamphetamine. He was arrested for indecent exposure and possession of a controlled substance.

Violation of Restraining Order
December 29 at 8:24 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of W. Cherry reported her ex-girlfriend was at her home in violation of a restraining order. Officers responded to the home, but the subject was gone. The resident reported the subject has violated the order several times since it was obtained a few weeks prior. This investigation is continuing.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
December 29 at 8:28 p.m., a traffic collision was reported involving two motorists that had just collided in the 1500 block of S. Myrtle. Officers responded to investigate. One of the vehicles needed to be towed and the other was driven away. The driver who was found to be at fault was issued a citation.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance
December 29 at 9:23 p.m., a caller reported his 30-year-old brother was at their mother's home in the 100 block of W. Cypress and was under the influence of methamphetamine. Officers arrived and found the subject to be in need of medical care due to the narcotics. Paramedics responded and transported the subject to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Possession of Methamphetamine – Suspect Arrested
December 29 at 11:47 p.m., an officer was patrolling the 700 block of E. Huntington when he saw a motorist commit a driving violation. He stopped the vehicle and contacted the driver, who was subsequently found to be in possession of methamphetamine. The driver was arrested and taken into custody.

Grand Theft Auto
December 30 at 11:13 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 300 block of W. Huntington. The victim parked his vehicle in front of a business at 6:00 a.m. and went into the business. He returned to his vehicle at 11:00 a.m. and discovered it was missing. The investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft of Lottery Tickets
December 30 at 6:43 p.m., a petty theft of lottery tickets was reported at a business in the 700 block of W. Huntington. An adult male suspect entered the business and attempted to purchase the lottery tickets with a debit card. When he was told the lottery tickets must be purchased with cash, he switched old lottery tickets he had in his possession for new ones and fled the location without paying for the tickets. Investigation continuing.

Injury Traffic Collison
December 30 at 8:16 p.m., a caller reported a traffic collision that occurred in the 800 block of E. Foothill. A motorist traveling east on Foothill collided into parked vehicles. The driver complained of pain and was treated at the scene by Monrovia Paramedics. There were no signs of impairment for the driver.

Petty Theft of Lottery Tickets
December 31 at 12:43 a.m., an employee from a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington called to report a petty theft. An adult male entered the business and attempted to purchase lottery tickets with a debit card. When the subject was told the lottery tickets must be purchased with cash, he switched old lottery tickets he had in his possession for new ones and fled the location without paying. This was the second incident involving similar circumstances. The investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft
December 31 at 11:24 a.m., a resident in the 700 block of S. Myrtle called to report several items had been taken from his unlocked vehicle. This occurred sometime during the night. Investigation continuing.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
December 31 at 2:31 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 700 block of E. Cypress. A motorist was traveling east on Cypress and slowed due to traffic. The motorist was rear-ended by another vehicle. The party at fault was issued a citation.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
December 31 at 3:13 p.m., an employee at a restaurant in the 400 block of S. Myrtle called to report a customer that was yelling at employees. Officers arrived and contacted the subject. The subject was found to be too intoxicated to care for her own safety. She was arrested for public intoxication and held for a sobering period.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
December 31 at 10:23 p.m., an officer on patrol in the 400 block of W. Duarte saw a male subject that appeared to be intoxicated. The officer detained the subject and found the subject to be too intoxicated to care for his own safety. He was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Domestic Battery
December 31 at 11:06 p.m., police dispatch received a call reporting that a male was attempting to take a female's purse in the 400 block of S. Myrtle. Officers arrived and determined the two were a couple and they were involved in an argument. During the argument, the male battered the female, but did not cause any injury. The male subject fled prior to officers arriving. An Emergency Protective Order was obtained for the victim and the investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspects Arrested
January 1 at 12:12 a.m., police dispatch received several calls regarding disturbances in the 400 block of S. Myrtle. Officers arrived and arrested three subjects who were found to be too intoxicated to care for their own safety. They were transported to the Monrovia Jail for booking and held for a sobering period.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
January 1 at 2:45 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 100 block of N. Melrose when he saw a vehicle driving without headlights. A traffic stop was conducted. Field sobriety tests were completed and the driver was arrested for DUI. He was later released with a citation to appear in court.

Vandalism
January 1 at 12:48 p.m., a resident in the 400 block of N. Canyon called to report her vehicle had been vandalized. The victim’s vehicle had two smashed windows, nothing else was tampered with and no items were missing. Investigation continuing.

Commercial Burglary
January 2 at 10:15 a.m., a business owner in the 2600 block of S. Myrtle called to report that sometime during the night the rear door to the business was pried open and a laptop and two monitors were taken. Investigation continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
January 2 at 2:36 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 300 block of W. Duarte. The victim called to report that sometime during the past week his motorcycle was taken from a parking space at his complex. The investigation continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 2 at 4:26 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 200 block of W. Primrose. A motorist was traveling east on Colorado and stopped at the intersection of Primrose. A pedestrian was running south on Primrose and crossed the intersection at Colorado while outside the crosswalk. Neither the pedestrian nor the vehicle saw one another and both entered the intersection at the same time. The pedestrian was struck by the vehicle and suffered an abrasion to one of his arms. He was transported to a local hospital. Investigation continuing.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence
January 2 at 5:00 p.m., a motorist collided into two parked vehicles in the 200 block of E. Cypress. When officers arrived, the vehicle was in the middle of the intersection of Cypress and Sherman and the driver was located outside the vehicle on the ground, face down. He admitted to driving the vehicle. Numerous beer bottles were seen inside the vehicle. The driver was taken to a hospital for treatment. The investigation is continuing.

‘Bird Box’ House Attracts Tourists to Monrovia

A Monrovia house featured on the Netflix show, Bird Box, has become a minor tourist attraction. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Volunteer Your Sewing Skills




Monrovian Laura Tartaglione is looking for someone to assist her nonprofit organization, HonorBands.net, which creates the bands to honor fallen law enforcement officers, by sewing 28-30 wristbands like the one above. If you’d like to help you can call her at 626 353-2554.

- Brad Haugaard 

Sidewalk Vendors Coming to Monrovia; Recycle Your Christmas Tree; History of Robert Kennard

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

~  Expect to see sidewalk vendors in Monrovia.  Beginning Jan. 1, all cities and counties in California are required to allow sidewalk vendors to sell food and other products from a mobile cart or stationary (but temporary) stand on any city sidewalk or in any city park. The city is planning to institute some minimal regulation that the state will allow. Details: https://goo.gl/LG12jS

~  Through Jan. 12 you can recycle your Christmas tree by placing it on the curb during your regular trash collection day. Remove all decorations.

~  On Martin Luther King Day, Jan. 20, from 1-2 p.m., the Monrovia Historical Museum (742 E. Lemon) will host a program on Monrovia's Robert Kennard, founder of the oldest African-American architecture firm in Los Angeles. Details and registration: https://goo.gl/1ULuEf

- Brad Haugaard

Walking Tour of Downtown Monrovia

Walking tour of downtown Monrovia on Saturday, Jan. 5, at 10 a.m. $5 per person and the tour lasts about two hours. Eight city blocks. Meet at the southeast corner of Palm and Myrtle. No RSVP is necessary.

- Brad Haugaard