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Dinner at T Phillips

Dinner at T Phillips, at the southwest corner of Myrtle and Colorado. Got the Buffalo Chicken Salad for $14 And a beer for $4.50.  Very good salad and great, prompt service. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Public Works Yard Accepting E-Waste


- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia City Council Plans Zoning Change to Allow 436-Unit Apartment


At its next meeting (agenda: https://is.gd/AlZxLh) the Monrovia City Council will consider changing the zoning of a 9.6 acre area near the train station to allow the development of a 436-unit, five-story apartment complex and a seven story (eight level) parking structure with 798 stalls.

The property is a full city block, bounded by West Evergreen Avenue to the north, the Gold Line Light Rail tracks to the south, South Magnolia Avenue to the east, and South Mayflower Avenue to the west. https://is.gd/kZJgb5

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Car Hits Skateboarder; Expensive Perfumes Stolen; Gardener Punched After Avocado Argument; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 23-29. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 376 service events, resulting in 65 investigations.

Grand Theft From an Unlocked Vehicle
January 23 at 10:07 a.m., a resident in the 700 block of W. Lemon called police to report a theft from her vehicle. Sometime between 2:00 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., someone entered her unlocked vehicle and took her wallet, which contained U.S. currency and two cashier's checks. Investigation continuing.

Battery
January 23 at 10:58 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of W. Colorado called police to report a battery incident. She said was involved in a physical altercation with another female adult. The reporting party suffered minor injuries, but declined to be treated by Monrovia paramedics. The other female fled the scene prior to officers arriving. Investigation continuing.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered
January 23 at 11:54 a.m., an employee from a business in the 3000 block of S. Peck called police to report the business had purchased a vehicle they now believed to be stolen. An officer responded and confirmed the vehicle was, in fact, reported stolen. The business had already sold various parts off the vehicle before discovering it was stolen. The vehicle was recovered and the investigation is continuing.

Vandalism
January 24 at 7:15 a.m., a vandalism incident was reported in the 300 block of Jasmine. A resident called to report that sometime between January 22 and January 24, the driver-side front window of his vehicle was shattered. Nothing was taken from the vehicle. Investigation continuing.

Warrant / Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
January 24 at 12:24 p.m., an officer was patrolling the 500 block of W. Huntington when he saw a subject he knew had outstanding warrants for his arrest. The officer detained the subject and confirmed the warrants. The subject was arrested for the warrants, and a search incident to arrest revealed the subject was also in possession of drug paraphernalia.

Battery – Suspect Arrested
January 24 at 12:40 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the 200 block of Melrose regarding a battery incident. A male subject called police and reported he had been punched in the face. The victim is a gardener for a resident in the area. The resident accused him of stealing her avocados. The victim said he threw the avocados away because a rodent had eaten a portion of them. A friend of the resident overheard the conversation, approached the victim and punched him in the face. The victim desired a citizen's arrest and the suspect was arrested.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 24 at 1:09 p.m., a traffic collision was reported at the intersection of Primrose and Huntington. A motorist was traveling south on Primrose and entered the intersection without yielding to oncoming traffic, colliding into a motorist traveling east on Huntington. One of the drivers complained of pain to her neck and was treated at the scene by Monrovia Paramedics. The party at fault was issued a citation.

Residential Burglary
January 24 at 9:28 p.m., police dispatch received a call from and alarm company reporting an alarm activation at a residence in the 700 block of Valley View. Officers responded and discovered the rear, sliding glass door had been shattered and the front door was open. Additional officers arrived, and the Foothill Air Support Team helicopter responded to the area to assist. A check of the interior revealed the suspects had gone through some drawers in the upstairs master bedroom, but no suspects were located. The victim was notified and the investigation is continuing.

Warrant / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
January 25 at 3:54 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of W. Colorado called police to report he could smell marijuana, but he was not sure where it was coming from. He thought possibly the top of a parking structure. Officers responded and located a male subject inside a vehicle at the top of the parking structure. A computer check revealed the subject had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. The subject was arrested for the warrant, and a search incident to arrest revealed methamphetamine inside the vehicle.

Vandalism
January 25 at 9:27 a.m., a vandalism incident was reported in the 200 block of W. Palm. The victim reported that sometime during the night or early morning hours, someone threw a rock through his front bedroom window. Investigation continuing.

Warrant / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
January 25 at 9:31 a.m., a resident in the 500 block of Norumbega called police to report a suspicious subject in the area. The resident said he appeared to be casing the neighborhood. Officers arrived and located the subject, and a computer check revealed he had multiple warrants for his arrest. He was arrested for the warrants, and a search incident to arrest revealed the subject was in possession of a pipe used to smoke methamphetamine.

Grand Theft
January 25 at 12:40 p.m., an employee from a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington called police to report a large amount of high-end perfumes had been stolen from the store the previous day. An officer was dispatched to take a report and the investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft From Unlocked Vehicle
January 26 at 8:52 a.m., a resident walked outside his home in the 100 block of N. Ivy and found his unlocked vehicle had been ransacked and items were stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Suspicious Person / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 26 at 10:29 a.m., a caller reported a suspicious female subject banging on the glass window to the historical train station in the 1600 block of S. Primrose. Officers responded and found she had not caused any damage. A computer check revealed she had four warrants for her arrest. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
January 26 at 5:01 p.m., a resident in the 100 block of N. Alta Vista found minor damage to their vehicle that was parked on the street. Officers responded and determined the parked vehicle had been hit by another vehicle, which failed to stop. This investigation is continuing.

Domestic Battery / Violation of Restraining Order – Suspect Arrested
January 27 at 9:30 a.m., a resident in the 800 block of Encino called police to report her ex-boyfriend was at her home in violation of a restraining order. He had initiated an argument with her and then battered her. Officers arrived and, after investigation, arrested the suspect for violating the restraining order and domestic battery.

Injury Hit & Run Traffic Collision
January 27 at 1:55 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 100 block of N. Mayflower when she saw a skateboarder limping along the sidewalk. The officer stopped to see if he needed assistance. The subject said he was skateboarding and a car hit him, causing him to fall. He said the car then fled the area. Paramedics transported him to a nearby hospital for minor injuries. This investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 28 at 8:25 a.m., a traffic collision was reported in the 100 block of W. Colorado. A caller reported a motorist had just collided with a pedestrian. Officers responded and took a report. The involved pedestrian was not seriously injured.

Assault
January 29 at 2:32 p.m., a resident in the 300 block of S. California called police to report an assault incident. She said a family member was visiting her home when he became angry. He began to strangle her and then pushed her into a metal railing, causing visible injuries. A couple neighbors saw what was happening and came to the victim’s rescue. The suspect fled the area. Officers searched the area, but were not able to locate him. This investigation is continuing.

Missing Person Located
January 29 at 4:02 p.m., an elderly man was reported missing in the 200 block of S. Myrtle. He was in the car with his wife, when she went into a bank for about 15 minutes, leaving him in the car. When she returned, he was gone. She worried he was lost because he suffers from memory loss, so she called police. Officers immediately searched the area and located missing subject nearby. He was returned to his wife.

Coronavirus Notice: Don't Send Sick Children to School

Dear Monrovia Unified Community,

On Jan. 21, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the first case of the new coronavirus found in the United States and, since then, two cases have been confirmed in California. Reports confirm that the two known California patients are receiving treatment in the hospital.

Though the CDC has labeled the virus low risk, our district nurse immediately contacted the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health for any additional information they could provide. Their recommendation, which we have since shared with all staff members, is to watch for symptoms which include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing.

According to the LA County Department of Public Health, "there is no immediate threat to the general public, no special precautions are required.”

The LA County of Public Health is working alongside the CDC, ensuring travelers who recently visited Wuhan, China and who are experiencing a fever or respiratory illness symptoms are tested for the virus and receive care. The CDC advises those traveling to China avoid contact with sick people, to avoid animals, animal markets, and to wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

If you have recently visited Wuhan City, it is recommended you contact a healthcare provider and receive care if you become ill within 14 days of your return. While there is no cure for the virus, healthcare providers can treat the symptoms and minimize the transmission.

While attendance is important for student success, our priority is health and safety. As always, we advise parents to not send their children to school if they are sick. This ensures your child is able to get the proper care and rest they need and protects the health and wellness of our students and staff.

We will continue monitoring the situation and provide updates should any new information come to light.

For more information on the coronavirus, visit: U.S. Centers for Disease Control Prevention: cdc.gov/wuhan and Los Angeles County Department of Public Health: http://publichealth.lacountry.gov/media/Coronavirus.

Source: Monrovia Schools press release

- Brad Haugaard

Book Club Discussions at the Library

Enjoy reading? The Novel Ts Book Club meets at the Library on the fourth Tuesday of every month, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., in the Library Community Room, for a book discussion. Here's what's coming up:

January 28 - To The Lighthouse by Virginia Wolf
February 25 - Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
March 24 - There There by Tommy Orange
April 28 -  The Winter of our Discontent by John Steinbeck

- Brad Haugaard

Khufu: Statuesque Beauty and No Barking - Just Snorting

Khufu was named after an Egyptian pharaoh, and you can see why – she’s got the statuesque beauty of a sphinx! She’s such a sweetie, and loves when people sit on the floor and talk to her. And although she loves walks, she’d be happy to be your couch potato buddy. The cutest thing about her might be that she doesn’t really bark, but she makes adorable snorting sounds. If Khufu sounds like the perfect dog, it’s because she is!

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

Monrovia High Open House Showcases Various Student Pathways

Monrovia High School hosted its annual Open House while showcasing scholastic academies, career technical education (CTE) pathways, visual and performing arts programs and extracurricular activities on Jan. 15, giving Monrovia Unified students and their parents a comprehensive overview of what it means to be a Wildcat.

"If you have a passion, we are here to help you connect to it," Principal Kirk McGinnis said. "You will always be a Cougar or a Cub, but when you come to Monrovia High, we are all Wildcats. We all work together to succeed."

Families spoke with teacher and student representatives from Monrovia's Math and Science, Humanities and Digital Arts academies, Theater Arts Conservatory, Achievement Via Individual Determination (AVID), Advanced Placement and eight CTE programs.

Club life, elective classes, student leadership and extracurricular activities were well represented, with students and faculty detailing a diverse array of campus life - including robotics, dual immersion, Renaissance leadership and band.

"Monrovia's Open House is a way to make our new students feel welcome, meet their new classmates, and lessen the anxiety of beginning high school," Superintendent Dr. Katherine Thorossian said. "It also gives our high school students a chance to show their leadership skills by promoting the classes and activities that resonate with them."

Monrovia junior Marc Altamirano pitched the perks of enrolling in French class and joining the French club, which includes celebrating the French Epiphany - the date of the Three Kings - and eating traditional French pastries such as Galette des Rois.

"French class is really fun; I highly recommend it," Altamirano said. "The focus is on comprehension and immersion. We listen to a lot of French music and watch French New Wave cinema. Each week we come in and try to describe our weekend entirely in French."

The Open House was the first step in preparing incoming freshmen for high school. On Jan. 16-17, MHS reps traveled to Clifton and Santa Fe middle schools to make program presentations. A campus tour for all eighth-graders is scheduled for Feb. 4. Fall registration begins July 15 and new freshman orientations will be held Aug. 10

"The Monrovia High Open House is a community event, and it's not unusual to see MHS alumni here with their children, talking with their former teachers and just as excited as their kids," Board of Education Vice President Bryan Wong said. "Our mission is to provide equity and opportunity to every student and encourage them to find the academic path that will help them to become lifelong learners."

Source: Monrovia Schools press release

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Diplomat

Dinner at The Diplomat, on the north side of Lemon just east of Myrtle. Got the Chicken Fattoush Salad for $14 and a beer for $5. Excellent!

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: Helicopter Assists in Arresting Two Following Pursuit and Crash; Police Pursue, Arrest Car-Theft Suspect; Jewelry Burglarized from Myrtle Store; Vehicle Burglar Drives Caddy

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

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 382 service events, resulting in 72 investigations.

Petty Theft From a Vehicle
January 16 at 9:30 a.m., a petty theft was reported in the 800 block of W. Duarte. The victim called police to report items were stolen from their unlocked vehicle sometime during the night. The victim’s wallet and garage remote control were taken. Investigation continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
January 16 at 11:58 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 800 block of W. Foothill. There was video surveillance that showed a white Cadillac Escalade pulled up next to the victim’s parked vehicle and a passenger exited and smashed two of the vehicle windows. Two iPads were stolen from inside the vehicle. Investigation continuing.

Warrant / Violation of Restraining Order – Suspect Arrested
January 17 at 12:21 a.m., an officer was patrolling the area of Mayflower and Fano when he saw two subjects he recognized from prior contacts. A computer check revealed one of the subjects had two outstanding warrants. There was also a restraining order protecting the other subject from the subject with the warrants. The subject was arrested and taken into custody for the warrants and violating the restraining order.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 17 at 7:08 a.m., a caller reported an injury traffic collision near the intersection of Duarte and Myrtle. A motorist was stopped at the railroad tracks, facing south, and another motorist rear-ended the stopped vehicle. One of the drivers complained of pain and was treated at the scene by Monrovia Paramedics.

Grand Theft Auto / Pursuit – Suspect Arrested
January 17 at 8:44 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 1800 block of S. Myrtle, when he was notified of a stolen vehicle in the area. The officer located the vehicle traveling north on Myrtle and attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver did not yield. A pursuit ensued until the vehicle went down a dead-end driveway and had to stop. A high-risk felony stop was conducted, and the solo occupant was arrested for grand theft auto and taken into custody.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
January 18 at 2:52 p.m., an employee from a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington called to report a female subject had concealed merchandise in her purse and exited the store without purchasing the items. She was detained by loss prevention and the property was recovered. Officers arrived, conducted an investigation and the female was arrested for shoplifting.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 18 at 4:09 p.m., a motorist was traveling north on Peck, approaching Longden, and another vehicle was traveling west on Longden, approaching Peck. The motorist traveling north failed to stop at the stop sign and collided into the other motorist. One of the drivers complained of pain to his leg and was transported to a local hospital. The driver at fault was issued a citation for the traffic violation.

Drug Activity / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Cited
January 18 at 7:34 p.m., a resident in the 2600 block of California called to report a male and female subject that were possibly selling drugs from a parked vehicle. They reported people were approaching the vehicle and it appeared drug transactions were being made. Officers arrived and located the male and female. The female had syringes on her person and in her belongings. She also had other drug paraphernalia in her possession. The male didn't have any contraband. The female was issued a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
January 19 at 12:51 a.m., an officer was patrolling the area of Lime and Myrtle when he saw a male subject lying on the sidewalk. The officers checked the subject’s well-being and discovered he was too intoxicated to care for his own safety. He was arrested for public intoxication and held for a sobering period.

Providing False Information to a Police Officer / Warrants – Suspect Arrested
January 20 at 7:56 a.m., an officer was patrolling the area of Mountain and Lime when she saw a motorist commit a traffic violation. The officer stopped the motorist for the traffic violation. The driver did not have any form of identification and there was no DMV record of him having a driver’s license. He was arrested and taken into custody in order to obtain his identify. He was eventually identified by his fingerprints. It was then discovered he had provided false information to the officer and had four outstanding warrants for his arrest.

Commercial Burglary
January 21 at 1:58 a.m., officers responded to a business in the 500 block of S. Myrtle on an alarm activation and found the front window to the business was shattered. An interior check was conducted, but no one was found inside. A review of the video surveillance showed two suspects wearing dark clothing and hoodies shattered the front window to gain entry. One suspect entered the store, while the second suspect waited outside as a lookout. The suspect took gold jewelry and diamond rings from the display cases. The suspects were inside the store for 60 seconds. Investigation continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
January 22 at 6:51 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 900 block of S. Fifth. The victim reported his vehicle was parked in a hotel parking lot and sometime during the night, his vehicle was taken. The vehicle was entered into the computer system as stolen and the investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
January 22 at 8:21 a.m., an employee from a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain called to report a male subject entered the business, concealed items on his person and exited the store without paying for the items. He was detained by employees and was cooperative. An officer arrived and conducted an investigation. The suspect was issued a citation to appear in court on the charges. The items were recovered and returned to the store.

Grand Theft Auto – Suspects Arrested
January 22 at 5:57 p.m., an officer was patrolling the 1800 block of S. Myrtle when he received a stolen vehicle alert from his vehicle’s monitoring device. The officer stopped the vehicle and performed a felony high-risk stop. A female passenger exited the vehicle and ran. The vehicle then sped off, attempting to evade officers and crashed into a building in the 200 block of W. Foothill. At that time, the male driver exited the vehicle and fled on foot. The Foothill Air Support Team helicopter assisted and was able to locate the suspect. Officers set up a perimeter, and both the driver and passenger were located and taken into custody. The suspects were arrested for grand theft auto, felony evading, and felony hit and run.

Troubles at Burgerim

Once upon a time Monrovia was going to get two Burgerim hamburger restaurants. I'm not aware that either has opened. The company has been having very serious problems. Here's a quote from an article in Restaurant Business titled "The Burgerim Disaster":

"Burgerim was once one of the hottest, fastest-growing brands in the U.S. Then its founder left the country, leaving behind a wreckage of unpaid workers, bankrupt franchisees and others struggling to make it work."

Source: https://is.gd/WHeLIS

- Brad Haugaard

KABC Report On Monrovia's Hippie Bots Robotics Team as It Prepares for International Competition in Spain



This is the KABC report on Clifton Middle School's Hippie Bots robotics team, which is heading to Spain as the only team from the United States invited to compete in the FIRST Tech Challenge Barcelona Championship.

- Brad Haugaard

Mayoral Candidate Grollnek Endorses Mayoral Candidate Taylor

Stephen Grollnek is running for mayor of Monrovia in a three-way contest with incumbent Tom Adams and challenger Melissa Taylor. But what's weird is that he has lawn signs for Melissa Taylor (also running for mayor) in his front yard, and none for himself.

Why?

Grollnek told me that he was thinking of running for mayor but found out that if he was the only challenger that the city would have to pay 80-some thousand dollars for an election.

So at first he decided not to run, but then he heard that Melissa Taylor had filed to run, so the election was on regardless.

So he decided to run.

Then he met Taylor, found that they agreed "on everything except global warming," and decided she would make a good mayor.

So why not drop out?

He said at this point he can't get his name off the ballot, and besides he wants to be at the Feb. 5 candidates forum so he can publicly come out in favor of Taylor at that time.

(Note: With 10 comments on the Monrovia Now blog or MonroviaNow's Facebook page, I think I've met the requirement to publish this. If you don't understand what I'm talking about, it really doesn't matter.) 

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Company Getting Into Cannabis Distribution Business

Monrovia-based Sugarmade, Inc., is getting into the cannabis delivery business and moving away from hydroponics for cannabis cultivation.

It's newly redesigned web site says, "Enjoy California's Newest Premium Cannabis Delivery Service."

Sugarmade CEO Jimmy Chan said, "We see significantly larger opportunities in the California cannabis distribution arena and have entered into advanced talks to make a strategic move into this area." https://is.gd/sNFdaT

The company's stock dropped today and closed at less than a penny per share.

- Brad Haugaard

Why Is One Mayoral Candidate Displaying the Lawn Signs of Another Mayoral Candidate?

Well, here's something you don't see every day.

Stephen Grollnek is running for mayor of Monrovia, in a three-way contest with incumbent Tom Adams and challenger Melissa Taylor.

So, since Grollnek is running against Melissa Taylor, why is he displaying HER signs in his front yard?

I called him up to ask.

He told me the whole reason but then asked me not to publish it yet unless at least 10 people comment on this article.

Hoo Boy!

Anyway, please comment so I can write the rest of this story. I think either here or on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/monrovianow/) will work fine.

- Brad Haugaard

Artist Eric Watkins Paints Utility Box

Artist Eric Watkins is painting a utility box at the corner of Foothill and Magnolia with the founding fathers of Monrovia. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Artists, You Can Paint a Utility Box; Read in a Monrovia Classroom; Construction on Ivy; Canyon Park Volunteers


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

~ The utility box painting program - Art on the Box - is returning. Want to paint a box? Applications are being accepted through March for artists of all ages. General information: https://is.gd/Mx7eqY and application form: https://is.gd/EE4tMv

~  Monrovia Reads will host Read Across Monrovia on Thursday, March 5, at 8 a.m. If you would like to read a story in a classroom, fill out this application: https://is.gd/thI41S. If you need help picking a book, the Library can help.

~  Monrovia Canyon Park recognized three volunteers:  Cree Horner, Joanie Ruggles, and Carl Jack. Cree "brings a great attitude and positive vibes to our hard-working crew of trail builders." Ruggles does "everything" with a "great smile and a passion to serve." Jack has been involved in numerous projects at Canyon Park "for nearly two decades."

~  Beginning Feb. 3, SCE and other contractors will be working around Ivy next to City Hall to make improvements to aging underground equipment and infrastructure. The project should last through March and will require traffic lane and sidewalk closures. Those affected will be notified of two planned power outages. For questions call Public Works at 932-5575.

- Brad Haugaard

Sky Cat: Friendly to Everyone

Tian Mao is two years old and loves to play. Her name means "Sky Cat" in Chinese, which may be due to her owl-like features (didn't you know that owls are the cats of the sky?). This gorgeous kitty isn't just playful, she's also very friendly with everyone, even people she's just met. And unlike the owl that lives in the tree outside your house, Tian Mao loves to be pet (disclaimer: don't pet wildlife.). If you're looking for a cat that checks all the boxes, Tian Mao is the sky cat for you.

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

YMCA Senior Summit Luncheon

Santa Anita Family YMCA senior community will hold its second Annual Senior Summit on Friday Jan. 31 from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. in the Monrovia Y's Multipurpose room.

Executive Director, Eric Boyd, and the leadership team will discuss the plan for year 2020. Free food and drinks. Sign up today at the Welcome Center in person or email julieflores@ymcala.org. Call the Y at 359-9244 for details.

- Brad Haugaard

Police Trying to Find Arcadia Resident

The Arcadia Police Department is seeking the public's assistance in locating Charles Henry Washington, a 70-year-old Arcadia resident.

On Sunday Jan. 19, at approximately 8 a.m., Washington checked out of a local hospital against medical advice. Washington returned to his home, in the 800 block of West Duarte Road. At approximately 6:30 p.m., Washington was last seen walking eastbound in the 800 block of West Duarte Road. Washington requires daily medication. Neighboring law enforcement agencies and hospitals were contacted; however, Washington has not yet been located.

Washington is described as a male, Black, 6'01" tall, 250 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Washington was last seen wearing a blue and green colored button-down shirt, blue jeans, and white shoes.

Contact Arcadia Police if you have any information: (626) 574-5151

- Brad Haugaard

Financial Auditor Gives Monrovia Schools a Thumbs Up

Monrovia School District's auditor reports that the district's finances appear to be correctly stated in its financial documents.

These statements, according to auditor Nigro and Nigro, "present fairly, in all material respects, the respective financial position of the governmental activities, business-type activities, each major fund, and the aggregate remaining fund information of Monrovia Unified School District, as of June 30, 2019." https://is.gd/57YMlm

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Nano Cafe

Lunch at Nano Cafe, at the corner of Mayflower and Duarte Road. Got the fried chicken off the lunch specials menu for $12.99 and an iced tea for $2.79.Came with a cup of soup (I got split pea), which was delicious, as was the rest of the meal

- Brad Haugaard 

Council to Consider 310-Unit Apartment Complex Near Train Station, Adding to Wilderness Preserve; Evaluate City Manager

At its next meeting (https://is.gd/0N3Lic) the Monrovia City Council will ...

~ Consider okaying a seven-story mixed-use residential/commercial development which would include 310 apartment units, 10,000 square feet of ground-floor commercial space, and a three-level (two underground) 479-space parking garage. It would be take up the block just west of Myrtle and immediately south of the freeway. https://is.gd/mVLHZo

~ Consider changing the zoning for two north Monrovia properties off Highland Place (which were donated to the city) from residential to Hillside Wilderness Preserve, which basically means nobody can build on them. https://is.gd/pxzdlF

~ Evaluate (in closed session) the city manager. https://is.gd/XE8hfF

- Brad Haugaard

Clifton's Hippie Bots Is Only US Robotics Team Selected to Compete in Spain!

The 2019-20 Clifton robotics team, Hippie Bots, has been chosen as the sole representative of the United States in the FIRST Tech Challenge Barcelona Championship in Vic, Spain in February, 2020. If you'd like to help the team get to Spain (i.e. - give money), click this link: https://is.gd/NxbEAW

- Brad Haugaard

Workshop on Tree Trimming, Fruit Growing, Grafting on Saturday

Learn about tree trimming, growing fruit and grafting this Saturday at Monrovia Community Garden (at Mountainside Communion Church at Colorado and Magnolia), from 9-10:30 a.m.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Drunks and Drugs; Shoplifting; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 9-15. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 366 service events, resulting in 56 investigations.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
January 9 at 10:50 a.m., a female subject called police to report her husband pushed her while at their home in the 100 block of W. Cypress. Officers arrived and contacted both parties. The couple was involved in an argument that escalated into a physical altercation and the female subject sustained multiple injuries. The male subject was arrested for domestic violence and taken into custody.

Wanted Person / Resisting Arrest – Suspect Arrested
January 9 at 1:54 p.m., a resident in the 500 block of W. Colorado called police to report seeing possible drug activity. When the officer arrived, he saw a vehicle matching the description provided by the caller. A traffic stop was conducted, and the investigation revealed one of the occupants in the vehicle was a wanted person. The subject initially resisted arrest, but was eventually arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
January 10 at 12:39 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 700 block of S. Magnolia, when he saw a vehicle commit several traffic violations. A traffic stop was conducted and the officer spoke with the driver. After field sobriety tests were conducted, the driver was arrested for DUI. He was taken into custody and held for a sobering period.

Theft From a Vehicle
January 10 at 12:14 p.m., a resident in the 500 block of Court called police to report that items were taken from his unlocked vehicle. One of the items taken was a credit card, and it had already been used at a Home Depot and Walmart that same day. Investigation continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
January 10 at 3:12 p.m., an employee from a business in the 3000 block of S. Peck called police to report the theft of a trailer. A male suspect in an older-model, Ford truck drove into the business parking lot at approximately 12:45 p.m. He attached a trailer that did not belong to him to his truck and left the property. Investigation continuing.

Critical Missing Person – Located
January 11 at 1:12 p.m., a resident in the 700 block of W. Foothill called to report that his elderly relative, who has medical issues, was missing for approximately two hours. Officers arrived and set up a search team. The elderly individual was located a short time later and was returned home safely.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
January 12 at 1:36 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 100 block of W. Central, when he saw a vehicle commit several traffic violations. A traffic stop was conducted and the officer spoke with the driver. After field sobriety tests were conducted, the driver was arrested for DUI. He was taken into custody and held for a sobering period.

Weapon Offense
January 12 at 11:44 a.m., a female subject came into the police department lobby to report a suspect that brandished a weapon in the 1400 block of S. Magnolia. The victim reported that when she was getting into her vehicle to go to work at 4:30 a.m., a female Hispanic subject approached her from the residence across the street and said, "right here, right now." The victim does not know the woman. The woman then brandished an object that appeared to be a handgun. The victim immediately started her vehicle and drove to work. She said she did not report the incident immediately because she needed to get to work. Investigation continuing.

Weapon Offense / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
January 12 at 2:45 p.m., a family disturbance was reported at a residence in the 300 block of E. Olive. Officers arrived and contacted two adult brothers, who were involved a verbal argument. One of the brothers alleged that during the argument, his brother brandished a pocket knife. The brother who brandished the knife was also found to be in possession of a pipe used for smoking narcotics. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence / Non-Injury Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
January 13 at 4:46 p.m., a caller reported a non-injury traffic collision in the 100 block of Fig. A vehicle had backed into another vehicle, and one of the drivers had to be restrained to prevent her from leaving. Officers arrived and determined the driver being restrained was too intoxicated to operate a vehicle safely. She was arrested for DUI and held for a sobering period.

Vandalism
January 14 at 11:48 p.m., an officer was patrolling the area of Mountain and Evergreen, when he was flagged down by a female subject. The woman stated her vehicle had been broken into while parked in front of a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain. The suspect gained entry by breaking a window, but no items were taken. Investigation continuing.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
January 15 at 12:29 p.m., an employee from a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain called police to report a male suspect just left the location without paying for items he had taken. Officers arrived, located the subject and detained him. The stolen items were recovered and the subject was arrested for shoplifting.

Trespassing / Open Container of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
January 15 at 2:49 p.m., a subject was inside a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington causing a disturbance. He was asked to leave by an employee, but he refused. The employee called police and reported the situation. Officers arrived and spoke with the subject. The subject still refused to leave and he was in possession of an open container of alcohol. He was arrested for trespassing and being in possession of an open container of alcohol in public.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
January 15 at 8:02 p.m., an officer was patrolling the area of Mountain and Oceanview, when he saw a driver commit a traffic violation. He conducted a traffic stop and spoke with the driver. A computer check revealed the driver had several outstanding warrants for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Jeremiah LaCroix Guilty in 2017 Murder at Gem City Grill

A jury has found Jeremiah LaCroix, 33, guilty of the murder of 43-year-old Michael Lowe in 2017 at the Gem City Grill in Monrovia. https://is.gd/qIL5Q0

- Brad Haugaard

Parking Fee at Canyon Park Jumping from $6 to $10

parking feeBeginning Feb. 1 the parking fee for Monrovia Canyon Park will jump from $6 to $10 for weekends and holidays. 

- Brad Haugaard 

State of City Address; New Utility Bill Format; Business Emergency Training; Bullet Journaling

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

~ The State of the City Address will occur on Jan. 29, at Studio Movie Grill, at 7 p.m. The Mayor and City Council will discuss accomplishments of the past year and speak about future projects.

~ Your utility bill will look different starting this February. Here's a preview: https://is.gd/qG97CE

~ The Library's Veterans Resource Center and the American Legion Women's Auxiliary are collecting these items for military personnel who are hospitalized, recovering from injuries sustained during service: White socks for men and women; coloring books for adults; coloring pencils, markers, pens; board and card games for adults. Drop off donations in the large blue box in the Library's main lobby this month. For questions contact Mabel Cross, Adult Services Librarian, at 256-8294.

~  Monrovia Fire & Rescue's Business Emergency Resiliency Training (BERT) is a free six-seminar series covering: Introduction to the Emergency Response System; Employee Preparedness; Fire Safety and Utility Awareness; Emergency Operations Plans and Business Continuity Plans; Disaster Exercise Planning; Terrorism/Crime and Safety Awareness. First session is Jan. 22, 9 a.m. - noon. Sign up here: https://is.gd/oTjX2x

~ Learn bullet journaling on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2:30 - 4:30 p.m., at the Library Community Room. In this two-hour workshop you will set up your own custom planner for 2020. All materials are provided. Register: https://is.gd/OpLl8T

- Brad Haugaard

Information About Monrovia Mayoral and City Council Candidates

Introducing  the candidates for Monrovia Mayor and City Council. I've included email addresses and a web page when I could find one. Alphabetical by last name.

Mayor
- Tom Adams: https://www.facebook.com/highpockets tom@c21ab.com
- Stephen Grollnek: spreeguy@aol.com
- Melissa Taylor: https://www.facebook.com/MelissaforMayor2020/
 melissaformonrovia@gmail.com

Council
- Donna Baker: https://www.donnabakermonrovia.com/ donnabakerformonroviacouncil@gmail.com
- Gloria Crudgington: http://gloriacrudgington.com/ gloria@crudg.com
- Becky Shevlin: https://www.facebook.com/becky4monrovia/ beckyshevlin@gmail.com

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Opens Permanent 'Artist Alley' at Community Center

Launching with a gala reception on Sunday, January 26, Monrovia will have a permanent art gallery in the halls and lobby area of the Monrovia Community Center at 119 W. Palm Avenue. Dubbed Artist Alley, this gallery program is a partnership between the City of Monrovia Community Services Department and Monrovia Association of Fine Arts (MAFA), now in its 58th year of serving the community.

Artist Alley will feature the work of juried MAFA member artists on display and for sale on a three-month rotating installation basis. The inaugural exhibit will feature four distinguished and popular MAFA artists: Ron Husband (world-renowned Disney animator who will display his pen and ink illustrations), Joan Whitenack (oil paintings), Carol Curtis (photography) and Eric Watkins (pen and ink and colored pencil drawings).

The public is invited to attend all gallery receptions and browse the art. All the new exhibit gallery receptions will feature wine and refreshments, and the reception schedule for the rest of the year will be Sunday, April 26, July 26 and October 25, all from 2 to 5 p.m., as each new multi-artist installation is ready for display.

The public gallery hours are the same as the Community Center: Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. – 9 p.m., Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., and closed Saturday and Sunday except for special events (during which the gallery will be open).

Interested buyers can purchase art (via check only) at the front desk of the Community Center. Purchased items will be tagged as sold and the proud new owners may take the art home at the end of the current three-month show.

Artists interested in participating in this gallery should contact Frank Zgonc, gallery Coordinator, at frazgo@msn.com. Participating artists must be active MAFA Artist Members.

For more information and to RSVP for the gallery receptions, contact Christine Geltz at christine@monroviafinearts.org.

Source: MAFA press release

- Brad Haugaard

Win With Wynn

Have you ever met a dog so photogenic that ALL their photos are social media-worthy? That perfectly describes Wynn! This gorgeous guy has the prettiest jet-black fur and the most stunning hazel eyes. He loves to play in the training yard and get his zoomies out, but he’ll usually take a little break to prance around for a bit and show off how handsome he is to anyone walking by. If you’re looking for someone to bring another layer of beauty to your selfies, you can’t lose with Wynn!

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

DC Comics Trivia at Copper Still Grill

Hosted by the Monrovia Public Library.

- Brad Haugaard

Blood Drive Thursday at Police Department

American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at the Monrovia Police Department (119 W. Palm) from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Jan. 16, this Thursday. You can schedule a time here: https://is.gd/E0FcY3

- Brad Haugaard

Fellowship Church Turns Eight Years Old

Fellowship Church, the large congregation that meets at the Monrovia High School auditorium, will celebrate its eighth anniversary Sunday night, Jan. 26, from 6-8 p.m. in the auditorium with music and special guests. https://is.gd/dMfveS

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Schools Has New Promotional Video



Monrovia Schools has a professional new promotional video narrated by Director of Performing Arts, Patrick Garcia.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovians Whose Ancestors Sailed on the Mayflower

At the Hastings Branch Library in Pasadena recently, descendants of the Pilgrim colonists who sailed to America on the Mayflower (including Carole Curran and Erica Hahn of Monrovia) describe the ship's voyage and the life of the early colonists on this, the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower's voyage. https://is.gd/NFMkBn

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Troy Donut and Burger

Lunch at Troy Donut and Burger, on the west side of Myrtle a block south of Duarte Road. Got the Pastrami Sandwich Combo with an iced tea for $8.49. Tasted fine. 

- Brad Haugaard 

School Board and City Council to Discuss Vaping, Active Shooter Drill, and Monrovia Days

The Monrovia School Board and City Council will hold a joint session to discuss vaping, active shooter drill, and Monrovia Days 2020. The meeting will be held this Monday at 6 p.m. in the school district board room, 325 Huntington Drive.

- Brad Haugaard

Endorsement in City Election Reported as Incorrect

Monrovian Gayle Montgomery reports that she was incorrectly cited as having endorsed Donna Baker in her run for City Council. She said a notice saying she (Montgomery) had endorsed Baker appeared on Baker's Facebook page. Montgomery said she received a thank-you letter from Baker. But this is incorrect, she said. She has not endorsed Baker.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Brakes Fail, Causing Injury Accident; Girlfriend Whacks Boyfriend with Dinner Plate; Plus Drugs, Alcohol, and Whatnot

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for January 2-8. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 347 service events, resulting in 54 investigations.

Attempt Commercial Burglary
January 2 at 11:10 a.m., an employee from a business in the 200 block of W. Duarte called police to report one of the windows to the business had been broken and a door was damaged. Video surveillance showed a suspect attempting to make entry into the business at 3:53 a.m., but the suspect was unsuccessful. Investigation continuing.

Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
January 2 at 10:01 p.m., an officer was patrolling the area of Duarte and Myrtle when he saw a bicyclist commit a traffic violation. He stopped the bicyclist and spoke with him. A consent to search was given and the officer located a small amount of illegal drugs and some drug paraphernalia on the subject’s person. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
January 3 at 1:00 a.m., an officer was on patrol near California and Lime when he saw a vehicle commit a traffic violation. A traffic stop was conducted and the officer spoke with the driver. After field sobriety tests were conducted, the driver was arrested for DUI. He was taken into custody and held for a sobering period.

Injury Traffic Collision
January 3 at 12:40 p.m., a caller reported an injury traffic collision in the intersection of Ivy and Chestnut. A vehicle was traveling east on Chestnut, approaching Ivy, and another vehicle was traveling south on Ivy, approaching Chestnut. The vehicle traveling east entered the intersection without stopping at the stop sign and collided with the vehicle traveling south. The driver of the vehicle traveling east said he tried braking prior to the stop sign, but his brakes failed. An officer on scene checked and said there did appear to be something wrong with the brakes. One of the passengers complained of pain to their wrist and was treated at the scene.

Shoplifting
January 3 at 2:19 p.m., an employee from a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington called to report a male subject that selected a pair of shoes and exited the store without paying for them. He fled the area prior to the police being called. Video footage was obtained. Investigation continuing.

Warrants – Suspect Arrested
January 4 at 7:42 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 2000 block of Peck when he saw two subjects he recognized from prior contacts. A computer check of the subjects revealed they both had outstanding warrants for their arrest. The subjects were detained and arrested for the warrants.

Lost / Stolen License Plate
January 4 at 9:53 a.m., a victim called and reported a license plate was removed from his vehicle while it was parked in the 100 block of W. Colorado. Investigation continuing.

Warrants – Suspect Arrested
January 4 at 2:56 p.m., an officer was patrolling the 400 block of E. Huntington when he saw a female who he recognized from prior contacts. A computer check on the subject revealed she had outstanding warrants for her arrest. She was detained and arrested for the warrants.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
January 5 at 6:47 p.m., a male adult subject was reported staggering in front of a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington. Officers arrived and checked on the subject’s welfare. It was determined the subject was too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested for public intoxication and held for a sobering period.

Fraud
January 6 at 8:18 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of Madeline reported someone had opened bank accounts using his name without his permission. He received notices from these banks, but did not know who opened them. This investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
January 6 at 3:03 p.m., a resident in the 100 block of E. Hillcrest arrived home and found her house had been burglarized. One of the back windows was shattered and several items were taken. She had only been gone for a couple hours. This investigation is continuing.

Shoplifting / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia / Warrants – Suspect Arrested
January 6 at 4:36 p.m., security for a clothing store in the 500 block of W. Huntington reported a female subject left the store with merchandise without paying. She was stopped outside the store and found to be in possession of a pipe that had been used for smoking methamphetamine. She was found to be on probation for shoplifting and had a warrant for her arrest. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Parole Violation / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Wanted Person
January 7 at 7:19 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 200 block of Montana when he saw a vehicle belonging to a subject he knew was on parole and was wanted for domestic violence. The vehicle was parked in the garage of a home. He obtained consent to search the home and located the suspect hiding in the home. The suspect was in possession of heroin and a used syringe. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
January 7 at 4:19 p.m., a caller reported two motorists collided into one another in the 2000 block of S. Myrtle. As officers were responding, one of the drivers fled the area and could not be located. No one was injured. This investigation is continuing.

Theft From a Vehicle
January 7 at 5:30 p.m., a caller reported someone had entered his vehicle and stole property from inside. The vehicle was parked in the 1600 block of S. Mountain. The owner was adamant he locked his vehicle, but there were no signs of forced entry. A small amount of change and a pair of sunglasses were taken. Investigation continuing.

Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspects Arrested
January 7 at 11:55 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the area of Myrtle and Cherry when he observed two subjects riding bicycles without proper lighting requirements. The subjects were stopped for the equipment violations and it was discovered both are on probation. The subjects were found to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. Both subjects were arrested, issued a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Theft From a Vehicle
January 8 at 11:52 a.m., a resident walked outside his home in the 400 block of N. Ivy and discovered his pickup truck had been ransacked and several items were taken. The resident had a Ring device at his home which captured the theft occurring. This investigation is continuing.

Graffiti Vandalism
January 8 at 1:30 p.m., a caller reported fresh graffiti written with green paint in the bathroom at Station Square Park in the 1600 of S. Myrtle. Officers responded but could not identify what the graffiti said. Graffiti removal was called and extra patrol requested.

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
January 8 at 2:22 p.m., employees of a restaurant in the 100 block of W. Foothill reported a female subject inside the restaurant who was yelling and refusing to leave. Employees of the restaurant had previously told her not to return and had a no trespass authorization signed. Officers arrived and the subject still refused to leave. She was arrested and taken into custody for trespassing.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
January 8 at 10:27 p.m., police dispatch received a call from a male subject who stated he had been hit over the head with a large ceramic plate by his girlfriend, causing injury. Officers arrived at the residence in the 400 block of W. Lime and found the male victim in his front yard bleeding from his head. The female was detained and Monrovia Fire Department paramedics responded to the scene. The investigation revealed the couple lives together and was involved in an argument over their relationship. The male subject began yelling at the female and, during the argument, the female struck him over the head with a large ceramic dinner plate, causing a laceration to his head. The male subject was taken to a local hospital for medical treatment and the female was arrested for domestic violence.

First Evensong of the Year at St Luke's

The choir of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Monrovia will present the first Evensong of the new year on Sunday, Jan. 19, at 4 p.m. at the church, 122 South California Ave., at Foothill Boulevard. 

The choir, with guest singers, will perform music for Evensong in Epiphany led by Director of Music Kent B. Jones. The program will include music by Arthur Sullivan, John Ireland, and three selections from Mendelssohn’s Christus. The Rev. Neil Tadken will be officiant and cantor.  An offering will be taken, and a wine and cheese reception will follow in Guild Hall.

- Brad Haugaard

Alhambra's Super Quarterback Coming to Monrovia High

Monrovia High is getting Alhambra's super sophomore quarterback, Noah Rodriguez, who is transferring to Monrovia. Rodriguez tweeted that he's happy to be coming home. (Apparently he grew up in Monrovia.) In the 2019 season he threw for 2,679 yards and 34 touchdowns. https://is.gd/kyuMIz

- Brad Haugaard

Why We Have a Water District


Some interesting historical images from 1959 about the founding of the Upper San Gabriel Valley Water District, from which Monrovia gets its water, here: https://is.gd/iMAhQF

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia High Open House Jan. 15


- Brad Haugaard

Volunteers Needed for Homeless Count; Five More Big Belly Trash Cans Coming

Big Belly trash cans.

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

~ If you are interested in participating in this year's Homeless Count, show up at the Monrovia Community Center (119  W. Palm Ave.) on Jan. 21 at 8 p.m. for training. The count is expected to begin at 9 p.m.

~  Five more Big Belly solar powered trash compactor units will be installed by the end of January. The units hold about five times as much as the typical trash can and alert city workers when they need to be emptied.

- Brad Haugaard

Fishing for the Friendliest Cat? Here He Is, Mr. Fish

Do you like great restaurants that no one else has heard of? Or bands that haven't made it big yet? Well, we have a hot tip for you about the greatest undiscovered gem in Pasadena: Mr. Fish. Mr. Fish is the sweetest, friendliest boy, and you can be the one to adopt him before everyone else discovers how he is. This five-year-old ginger boy absolutely loves being petted and having his head and cheeks scratched. He's so affectionate, he'll head butt you for more pets. Once word gets out about how great Mr. Fish is, there's bound to be a line of people waiting to meet him, so don't delay.

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

Monrovia Schools and Citrus College Share Golden Bell Award

Monrovia Unified's Early College Program (ECP), a dual-enrollment partnership with Citrus College that allows students to graduate from high school with up to two years of college coursework, has been recognized with a Golden Bell Award by the California School Boards Association (CSBA).

Superintendent Dr. Katherine Thorossian and Director of Counseling, College and Careers Dr. Catherine Real accepted the award on behalf of the District during the CSBA annual conference, held in San Diego on Dec. 5.

"Monrovia Unified's Early College Program is allowing first-generation students to receive a head start on their college education and create a culture of high expectations throughout the District," Thorossian said. "Thank you to the CSBA for recognizing the hard work of our ECP team and the innovative vision of our Board of Education."

The four-year program is designed to ease the financial burden of higher education and increase the number of underserved students who enroll in colleges and universities. The ECP is offered at no cost, with courses taught by college instructors and Monrovia High School teachers at Monrovia High.

Monrovia Unified students can earn up to 54 units of transferable credits - about two years of college - providing a savings of as much as $70,000 for tuition, books, housing and other costs for attending the University of California. Since the program's inception in 2017, more than 150 students have earned nearly 1,400 college credits.

Of the students in Monrovia Unified's Early College Program, 41% qualify for free or reduced-price lunches, 35% are first-generation college candidates and more than 50% are Latino or African-American. The program's passing rate is 95%, surpassing Citrus College's rate by 25%.

"African American, Latino, and socioeconomically disadvantaged students are underrepresented in higher education," Real said. "We want to build upon our district culture of equity and access for every student, increase student engagement, and provide relief for our families as they face the task of financing the ever-increasing cost of a college education."

Students are recruited during their final year at middle school, with many starting the ECP the summer before freshman year with a Strategies for College Success course taught by a Monrovia Unified counselor. Other ECP courses include Basic Photography, History of Rock and Roll, Physical Oceanography, Art History and Public Address.

In 2016, the California State Legislature passed AB 288, which facilitated the establishment of College and Career Access Pathways (CCAP) to expand dual-enrollment opportunities for underserved students.

The Golden Bell Award is one of California's leading educational honors, presented by the CSBA to promote excellence in public education and school board governance by recognizing outstanding programs and governance practices.

"The Early College Program provides an array of opportunities for our college-bound students to experience the rigors of college classes and reduce the cost of a college education," Board President Rob Hammond said. "Monrovia Unified is committed to providing our community the support and resources required to ensure world-class education to world-class students."

Source: Monrovia Schools press release

- Brad Haugaard

Service for Byron Greer Jan. 25

School Board Member Rob Hammond writes: “We are celebrating the life of Byron Greer on Saturday, January 25 at 1 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church on Foothill and Myrtle.”

- Brad Haugaard 

Myrtle Closed Next Week Between Walnut and Chestnut

Next week (Monday, Jan. 6, through Friday, Jan. 10), Myrtle Avenue, between Walnut and Chestnut, will be closed to motorists to replace roadway that was damaged and removed as a part of an underground utility project. Businesses on that block will remain open. https://is.gd/nNKxhl

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Rudy’s Mexican Food

Dinner at Rudy’s Mexican Food, at the corner of Myrtle and Colorado. Got a small Albondigas (meat ball) soup for $7.95 and an iced tea for $3.95. Very good and very pleasant service. 

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Science Experiment Goes Wrong - House Burns; Thefts from Cars; Lots of People With Arrest Warrants - 10 Arrested; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for December 26 – January 1. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 365 service events, resulting in 69 investigations.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 26, at 8:58 a.m., an officer was patrolling the area of Colorado and Ivy when he saw a subject he recognized from past encounters. An investigation revealed he had a warrant for his arrest. The subject was contacted and arrested per the authority of the warrant. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Court Order Violation / Warrants – Suspects Arrested
December 26, at 2:21 p.m., an officer was patrolling the 800 block of W. Chestnut when he saw two subjects he recognized from past encounters walking in the area. An investigation revealed both subjects had warrants for their arrest and one suspect has an active restraining order against the other. Both subjects were contacted and arrested per the authority of the warrants. They were taken to the Monrovia Police Department for booking.

Residential Burglary
December 26, at 1:06 p.m., officers responded to a report of a residential burglary in the 400 block of Highland. An investigation revealed the residents went out of town in September and did not return until several days ago. This investigation is continuing.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 26, at 3:18 p.m., an officer was patrolling the 200 block of W. Foothill when he noticed a subject carrying an open container of alcohol. The subject was contacted and an investigation revealed he had multiple outstanding warrants for his arrest. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 26, at 4:35 p.m., a business owner in the 100 block of E. Lemon reported there was a male subject refusing to leave the restroom. Officers arrived and contacted the subject. An investigation revealed he had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. He was arrested per the authority of the warrant and transported to the Monrovia Police Department for booking.

Weapon Offense – Suspect Arrested
December 26, at 8:16 p.m., a caller reported seeing two subjects inside the fenced area of his business located in the 1300 block of S. Myrtle. Officers arrived and found two subjects matching the given description. An investigation revealed one of the subjects was in possession of a weapon.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
December 26, at 9:06 p.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation near the intersection of Ivy and Huntington. The driver had a difficult time putting the vehicle in park and was exhibiting signs of being under the influence of alcohol. An investigation was conducted and the driver was subsequently arrested and taken into custody for Driving Under the Influence.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 26, at 11:40 p.m., an officer was patrolling the intersection of Genoa and Magnolia when he saw a subject he recognized from previous encounters. An investigation revealed the subject had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. The subject was arrested per the authority of the warrant. He was issued a citation in the field with a new court date.

Weapon Offence – Suspect Arrested
December 27, at 12:36 a.m., an officer was patrolling the intersection of Kruse and Myrtle when he noticed a parked vehicle occupied by one subject. The subject consented to a search of his vehicle and the officer located a weapon. The subject was arrested.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
December 27, at 3:25 a.m., a caller reported seeing a vehicle on the curb near the intersection of Mayflower and Huntington. Officers arrived and spoke with the male subject near the vehicle. He said there was a female driver who had crashed the vehicle before running away on foot. This investigation is continuing.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 27, at 8:17 p.m., an officer patrolling the intersection of Myrtle and Brisbane saw a subject walking in the area. The officer made contact with the subject and an investigation revealed the subject had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. He was arrested per the authority of the warrant and transported to the Monrovia Police Department for booking.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia / Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
December 27, at 9:07 p.m., an officer was patrolling the 200 block of W. Huntington when he saw a subject loitering outside a closed business. The subject was contacted and an investigation revealed he had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. The subject was also found to have drug paraphernalia on his person. The subject was arrested per the authority of the warrant and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol - Suspect Arrested
December 28, at 12:30 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation near the intersection of Primrose and Brisbane. The driver displayed symptoms of being under the influence of alcohol. An investigation revealed the driver had been driving while under the influence. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 28, at 2:46 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation in the 400 block of Linwood. An investigation revealed the driver had an outstanding warrant for her arrest. She was arrested per the authority of the warrant and taken into custody.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 28, at 8:02 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation near the intersection of Mountain and Huntington. An investigation revealed the driver had an outstanding warrant for her arrest. She was arrested per the authority of the warrant and taken to the Monrovia Police Department Jail for booking.

Shoplifting
December 28, at 7:52 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington regarding a report of shoplifting. An unknown male subject had stolen merchandise from the business. This investigation is continuing.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
December 29, at 3:22 a.m., an officer patrolling the intersection of Violet and Lime contacted two subjects in a parked vehicle. An investigation revealed one of the subjects was on probation and had an outstanding warrant for her arrest. The subject was found to be in possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. She was arrested and taken to the Monrovia Police Department for booking.

Vehicle Burglary
December 29, at 7:39 a.m., a caller reported seeing a van parked in the 1300 block of S. Myrtle with its windows shattered and glass on the street. Officers responded and did not locate anyone in or around the vehicle. The registered owner was contacted and it was confirmed the van had been burglarized sometime during the night. This investigation is continuing.

Theft
December 29, at 8:43 a.m., a resident in the 400 block of Holly walked outside her home and discovered someone had ransacked the inside of her vehicle sometime during the night. Officers responded and discovered the owner of the vehicle had left her car doors unlocked. The officer found two other vehicles parked next to the first one had also been ransacked and the doors left unlocked. Miscellaneous items were stolen from inside the cars. This investigation is continuing.

Drunk in Public
December 30, at 12:26 a.m., an officer responded to a report of a suspicious person in the 1600 block of Venice. A female subject was contacted and an investigation revealed she was intoxicated and unable to care for herself. She was arrested and taken to the Monrovia Police Department Jail for a sobering period.

Theft
December 30, at 8:19 a.m., a caller reported his wallet was stolen from his unlocked vehicle in the 500 block of Hacienda. Officers responded and an investigation revealed the victim’s credit card was used at a local gas station. This investigation is continuing.

Fraud
December 30, at 10:10 a.m., officers responded to a residence in the 400 block of Parkrose regarding a fraud. The resident reported that a utility account had been opened out of state using his information. This investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
December 30, at 2:23 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 900 block of S. Monterey regarding a traffic collision. A vehicle failed to stop at a stop sign and collided into another vehicle. One party complained of pain and was treated by paramedics from the Monrovia Fire Department. The party at fault was issued a citation.

Grand Theft from Unlocked Vehicle
December 31, at 12:37 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of E. Hillcrest walked outside his home and discovered the inside of his unlocked vehicle had been ransacked. His cellphone and jacket were missing from inside the car. This investigation is continuing.

Petty Theft
December 31, at 1:07 p.m., a customer of a hardware store in the 1600 block of S. Mountain left his wallet in his shopping cart then left the store. An employee found the wallet and placed it in their lost and found, $700 cash from inside the wallet was missing. This investigation is continuing.

House Fire
December 31, at 1:55 p.m., residents in the 200 block of E. Pomona reported a house on their street was on fire. Officers and the Monrovia Fire Department responded. Officers made sure the house on fire and surrounding homes were evacuated, while the Fire Dept. extinguished the flames. The fire was caused by one of the resident's children doing a science experiment which sparked flames at him and the curtains in his bedroom. The child's eyebrows were singed, but the family refused medical care.

Non-Injury Traffic Collision
December 31, at 2:14 p.m., callers reported two motorists collided into one another in the 1100 block of E. Huntington. Officers responded and found no one was injured. The driver who was found to have caused the collision was issued a citation for the driving violation.

Non-injury Traffic Collision
December 31, at 3:57 p.m., a motorist reported he just collided into another motorist in the intersection of Greystone and May. Officers responded and found no one was injured. Both parties did not desire a police report, but only exchanged information.

Shoplifting
December 31, at 5:11 p.m., an employee of a hardware store in the 1600 block of S. Mountain reported a male subject had stolen tools then fled in a vehicle. Officers responded to the area but could not locate the suspect. This investigation is continuing.