Toby: Excellent Mood Booster and Cuddle Bug

Toby is a handsome guy with a grin that can lift anyone's spirits. Just look at that sweet face! Toby is also an excellent cuddle bug. If you've had one of those days/weeks/years and need someone to boost your mood, Toby is ready to help. At eight years old, he's pretty cool and calm, but he'd love to be your buddy for walks around the neighborhood (and not to brag, but he walks great on a leash). He even looks great in a bandana, so get ready to be that person who wears coordinating outfits with their dog when you go for your walks!
 
The adoption fee for dogs is $140. All dog adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.
 
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 and fill out an online adoption application. Adoptions are by appointment only.

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

Announcement of School Board Candidacy of Jennifer Anderson


Being a parent of four Monrovia students for the last fifteen years, I have continuously volunteered with the goal of improving education for all children. I have held a multitude of roles for PTA in Monrovia schools and currently serve as the President for the Monrovia Council of PTAs. I am also the current President of the MASA Parent Boosters and have coordinated our very successful robotics tournaments held at Monrovia High School attracting participation from schools as far away as San Diego. I have worked in conjunction with our Visual and Performing Arts program to support the Arts for K-12 since 2014 and directed the backstage crew for our annual Monrovia Superstars of Music Showcase for the last seven years. I have also served on numerous district task forces and site committees, including the current secondary school taskforce for distance learning and hybrid learning plans. In some cases, I was the only parent representative, to ensure that all children are recognized, valued, and have the same opportunities I would want for my own children.

As a former mathematics professor, education has always been deeply important to me. Since then, I have worked diligently with teachers, parents, and administrators to build relationships and provide support to ensure we constantly expand our students’ experience and receive a well-rounded education that includes pathways for career opportunities and college and university goals.

In this exceptional time, we must find creative solutions to ensure our kids receive a robust education and provide opportunities to further their education or pursue career-ready pathways. 

Currently, as the President of Monrovia Council of PTAs, I am working closely with our principals and administrators on a daily basis to help ensure that our students are being fed, that every child has the devices and internet they need to connect to their teachers, and that communication to parents is timely, informative, and helpful. Because I have three children currently attending MHS, I am intimately involved in the day-to-day issues in our schools. Within days of schools reopening, I identified holes in our plan. Because of my strong relationships with parents and administrators, and by collaborating with our district leaders, I was immediately able to make these issues known and offer solutions, forestalling greater problems. As an advocate for all children, I will continue to listen to the needs of students, parents, and teachers and advocate for the rights of our kids! 

Strong leadership and deep awareness of daily issues are needed to navigate the challenges brought on by the pandemic. With my experience and proven leadership, I am confident I will help Monrovia Unified thrive through this global crisis and make educational decisions that are innovative, effective, and equitable. 

Please vote for Jennifer Anderson, a Mom, an Educator and a Proven School Leader! www.jenniferanderson4MUSD.com

City Council to Consider Supporting Anti-Rat Poison Bill, 'Nonmaterial' Fixes to Parking Restrictions

At its next meeting (agenda: https://is.gd/PhMTrQ) the Monrovia City Council will consider ...

~ Consider adopting a letter supporting Assembly Bill 1788, which would ban most uses of rodenticides containing such chemicals as brodifacoum, bromadiolone, difenacoum, and difethialone, which, the letter says, "are known to travel up the food chain and kill non-target animals, such as raptors, bobcats, foxes and mountain lions who consume the poisoned rats." https://is.gd/TrBwKy

~ A proposed revision of the "Monrovia Municipal Code Revising Regulations Related to Stopping, Standing, and Parking." The staff report says these are "minor, nonmaterial corrections that are in need of updating to ensure consistent enforcement of the parking restrictions throughout the City." https://is.gd/xDG3ED

- Brad Haugaard

Coronavirus Count: 674 Cases; 1 More Death

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 8/26/2020. Changes since 8/24/2020.

City of Monrovia: 674 cases (up 11), 36 deaths up 1
Unincorporated Monrovia: 74 cases (unchanged), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 2 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Le Roy’s

Lunch today at Le Roy’s Restaurant, on the north side of Huntington just west of Mayflower. Got the Cold Plate for $10.75 and an iced tea for $3.20. A lot! and good. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: First Defrauds Him, Then Hits His Car; Packages Stolen from Homes; Suspect Punches Date, Steals Phone; Assault With Broom Handle; Man Attacks Bus With Fists; Etc.


[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for August 20-26. - Brad Haugaard]


During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 361 service events, resulting in 89 investigations. 

Non-Injury Hit & Run Traffic Collision
August 20 at 2:21 p.m., a hit and run traffic collision was reported in the 600 block of W. Huntington. The victim confronted a male suspect, in a vehicle, that had previously defrauded him. When confronted, the suspect collided into the victim's vehicle in an attempt to escape. He then drove away without exchanging information for the collision. Officers searched the area for the suspect, but were unable to locate him. This investigation is continuing. 

Vehicle Burglaries
August 20 at 2:40 p.m., a caller reported her vehicle had been burglarized while she was shopping inside a hardware store in the 1600 block of S. Mountain. Officers arrived and discovered that another customer's vehicle had also been rummaged through while the owner was shopping. Several personal items were taken. This investigation is continuing. 

Stolen Vehicle Recovered
August 20 at 9:41 p.m., the manager of a moving truck center called police to report seeing a truck she had reported stolen earlier in the week. The truck was currently parked at a hotel in the 700 block of W. Huntington. Officers responded and located the truck parked in a stall. The vehicle was recovered and removed from the stolen vehicle system. This investigation is continuing. 

Theft From a Vehicle
August 21 at 1:43 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of S. Mayflower reported someone entered her unlocked vehicle sometime during the night and took her purse. Officers arrived and conducted an investigation. This investigation is continuing. 

Theft of a Package
August 21 at 1:53 p.m., a resident in the 500 block of W. Duarte reported a male suspect took an Amazon package from his neighbor's porch, then fled the area with it. Officers responded to the area, but were unable to locate the suspect. They found the empty Amazon box nearby. This investigation is continuing. 

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
August 22 at 3:49 p.m., a caller requested a welfare check on a male subject lying on the sidewalk near the intersection of Myrtle and Central. Officers arrived and recognized the subject from previous encounters. After speaking with him, they determined he did not need medical assistance, but was unable to care for himself due to heavy intoxication. He was arrested and held for a sobering period. 

Mail Theft
August 22 at 9:20 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of N. Encinitas reported that a package had been stolen off his porch. Officers arrived and were able to view surveillance footage of the suspect. The subject was male, in his early 20's, wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and black sweat pants. As the officer was conducting his theft investigation, he learned that packages were stolen from two other homes in the same block. This investigation is continuing. 

Robbery
August 23 at 2:53 a.m., a robbery incident was reported in the 700 block of W. Lemon. The victim met the suspect on a dating website and they agreed to meet at the location. Before leaving, the suspect claimed he could not find his cell phone. The victim attempted to call the suspect’s cell phone to locate it. The suspect then punched the victim in the face, stole the victim’s cell phone and fled the location. Officers arrived and conducted an investigation, which is continuing. 

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
August 23 at 9:29 a.m., a possible domestic violence incident was reported in the 200 block of W. Pomona. Officers arrived and located a male and female subject at the Station Square platform. It was determined the female subject had struck the male subject with a broom handle. The female was arrested for domestic violence. 

False Report / Fire Alarm
August 23 at 11:11 a.m., the Monrovia Fire Department responded to a fire alarm at a hotel in the 700 block of W. Huntington. Monrovia police were requested after an employee reported she witnessed a female subject pull the fire alarm without a fire being present. Officers arrived and retrieved surveillance footage of the suspect. This investigation is continuing. 

Injury Traffic Collision
August 23 at 9:34 p.m., two vehicles struck each other at the intersection of Alta Vista and Chestnut. Officers arrived and found one of the parties was complaining of pain. Paramedics from the Monrovia Fire Department were requested, but the subject refused any treatment. 

Grand Theft Auto
August 24 at 5:06 a.m., officers responded to the 100 block of E. Cypress regarding the report of a stolen vehicle. The owner parked his vehicle in front of his residence at approximately 9:00 p.m. the night before. He returned to the area at 5:00 a.m. the next morning and saw his vehicle was no longer there. Officers conducted an investigation and entered the vehicle into the stolen vehicle system. 

Injury Traffic Collision
August 24 at 10:51 a.m., a trash service truck was traveling in the 800 block of W. Walnut, when a vehicle backed out of a private driveway and collided into it. Officers arrived and conducted an investigation. The driver of the vehicle backing up complained of pain. The driver was transported to a local hospital for treatment. 

Grand Theft
August 24 at 1:47 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 600 block of W. Huntington. Employees reported that a male subject walked into the location and took two iPhones and two Apple Watches, then left the location on foot. Officers checked the area, but were unable to locate the suspect. This investigation is continuing. 

Injury Traffic Collision
August 24 at 4:15 p.m., officers responded to the intersection of Shamrock and Huntington regarding a traffic collision between a vehicle and a motorcycle. Officers arrived and found the motorcycle under a pickup truck. An investigation was conducted, and it was determined that the motorcyclist had run a red light and hit the front of a separate vehicle. The rider was thrown from the bike, and the bike slid on the roadway and struck the truck, which was driving in the opposite direction. The motorcyclist was transported to a local hospital by ambulance with non-life-threatening injuries. 

Vandalism
August 25 at 9:21 p.m., a subject near the intersection of Myrtle and Duarte approached a Foothill Transit bus and hit it with his fists. He caused some damage to the bus and fled the area. Officers arrived and checked the area, but did not locate the suspect. This investigation is continuing. 

Burglary
August 26 at 5:54 a.m., officers responded to the 200 block of W. Duarte regarding a possible break-in. Employees at the location had arrived in the morning and noticed the business was not secure. This investigation is continuing. 

Monrovia Travel Switches to Online


Monrovia Travel Service, at the corner of Myrtle and Lime, is closing its storefront and switching to online and telephone. On request, agents will meet with clients in person. https://is.gd/iD629M

- Brad Haugaard

Could Reach 103 Degrees Today


Heat warning today. Temperatures up to between 95-103 degrees is expected.  From 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. today. https://is.gd/o9vWdH

- Brad Haugaard

Free Youth and Adult Leadership Programs for Monrovians


Monrovia Area Partnership (MAP) will be holding free leadership programs for both youth and adults this fall.

The purpose of MAP is to use "education, training, networking, and activism" to "make Monrovia a fun, safe, and vibrant place to live."


Youth Leadership

The 8-week Youth Leadership Academy starts on September 9 and goes until October 28. Classes held on Wednesday's from 3:30-5 p.m. Participants must be in grades 6-12.

Sept. 9 - Get to Know MAP & Each Other

Sept. 16 - Caring for Yourself & Others

Sept. 23 - How to be a Leader

Sept. 30 - Virtual Tour of Monrovia

Oct. 7 - Virtual Ride Along with Monrovia PD

Oct. 14 - Public Speaking Do's & Don'ts

Oct. 21 - Career Day

Oct. 28 - Action!

Nov. 17 - Virtual Graduation @ City Council Zoom Meeting

Details: https://is.gd/RTym4k

Adult Leadership

The 8-week Adult Leadership Academy starts on September 10 and goes until October 29. Classes held on Thursday's from 7-9 p.m.

Sept. 10 - Get to Know MAP & Each Other

Sept. 17 - History of Monrovia

Sept. 24 - How to be a Leader

Oct. 1 - Local Government 101

Oct. 8 - Achieving Community Trust (ACT) Program

Oct. 15 - Community Tools & Resources

Oct. 22 - Public Speaking in Local Government

Oct. 29 - Action!

Virtual Graduation Nov. 17 during live City Council Meeting

Details: https://is.gd/3GrxrH

- Brad Haugaard

Russian Arrested in Monrovia for Allegedly Conspiring to Install Malicious Software on Nevada Company's Computer


A Russian has been arrested in Monrovia after allegedly trying to work a deal with an employee of a Nevada company to install malicious software on his company's computer system. The FBI arrested Egor Igorevich Kriuchkov, 27, with assistance by the Monrovia police. https://is.gd/Z3dvvm and https://is.gd/mwubld

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 663, Up 7

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 8/24/2020. Changes since 8/22/2020.

City of Monrovia: 663 cases (up 7), 35 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 74 cases (up 2), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 2 cases (unchanged), no deaths

Note: I'm planning to switch this from a daily to a weekly report that would appear on Thursday. Anybody really anxious that it remain daily?

- Brad Haugaard

Caramela: Bright Eyed, Alert, and Friendly

One-year-old Caramela was found as a stray, injured, and in need of emergency surgery – but now she’s all healed up and eager to be adopted! Despite all she’s been through, Caramela is bright-eyed, alert, and friendly. Even when she was in a fashionable cone after her surgery, she still leaned into people’s hands for head rubs while making biscuits. In her foster home, Caramela revealed that she’s an excellent toy hunter. This well-rounded gal would be a wonderful addition to any home!

The adoption fee for cats is $90. All cat adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.

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 and fill out an online adoption application. Adoptions are by appointment only.

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

- Brad Haugaard

Father of New Washington Football Team President Says Education and Faith Helped Put Jason Wright Where He is Today

Jason Wright, recently appointed as the first black president of an NFL team (https://is.gd/7DVCVg), the Washington Football Team, formerly the Washington Redskins, is the son of Monrovia State Farm Insurance agent, Sam Wright.

In an email, Sam Wright said, "My wife and I are obviously very proud of him. We tried to provide role modeling for him much the same way our parents did for us. We stressed education and faith. Both these things played a role in where he is today."

- Brad Haugaard

Mosquito Warning and Win

The San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District is hanging these alerts on front doors in Monrovia (we just got one). Mosquitoes carrying the West Nile Virus were recently discovered in the San Gabriel Valley, Pomona to be exact.

While warning of the dangers and urging people to dump any containers of standing water, the district is actually celebrating its success against the mosquitoes. Coming up on World Mosquito Day, the district reports on its "Short Bites" blog, that, "it appears we've got the upper hand. Through the work of our stealthiest mosquito-fighting crew (A.K.A. You), mosquito numbers were down by 67% last week compared to 2019! A true win for World Mosquito Day."

- Brad Haugaard



Monrovia Coronavvirus Count: 656, Up 4; No New Deaths

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 8/22/2020. Changes since 8/21/2020.

City of Monrovia: 656 cases (up 4), 35 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 72 cases (unchanged), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 2 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 652 - Up 8

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 8/21/2020. Changes since 8/19/2020.

City of Monrovia: 652 cases (up 8), 35 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 72 cases (up 1), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 2 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 644 - Up 8; One More Death

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 8/19/2020. Changes since 8/18/2020.

City of Monrovia: 644 cases (up 8), 35 deaths up 1
Unincorporated Monrovia: 71 cases (up 1), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 2 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Rent a Garden Spot for $60 a Year

If you're a Monrovian - or have family in Monrovia schools - and you'd like to rent a garden spot in the Monrovia Community Garden (at Mountainside Communion Church, at the corner of Magnolia and Colorado), they're available for $60 a year. Scholarships available. Deadline for applications is August 28 and the program runs from October to October 2021. About the program here (https://is.gd/sgWR97), and application here (https://is.gd/6sjAJT).

- Brad Haugaard

Mountain Avenue to Be Re-Repaved


In response to a complaint about a poor job of resurfacing Mountain Avenue, Council Member Becky Shevlin responded on the Nextdoor social media network that, "There were several application issues with the contractor and the work did not perform as desired. The contractor tried a couple of means of fixing it, and, ultimately, the City never paid the contractor for the work."

So, after all of the Monrovia Renewal phases are complete the city is going to "perform a 2-inch Grind and Overlay of Mountain Avenue," which I believe means that they'll grind off the top two inches of paving and repave it.

The idea of doing it after all the other phases are complete is because Monrovia "is pursuing Highway Safety Improvement Funds to overhaul traffic signals, including two signals on Mountain Avenue. If we successfully receive funding for the project, the two signaled intersections on Mountain (Lemon and Royal Oaks) will be cut up pretty extensively, which will destroy any new pavement put in place.

"Practically speaking," Shevlin writes "we should hold off on any major pavement work until we do any other improvements around the intersections."

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia DUI Checkpoint Saturday Night

Monrovia Police Department will be conducting a DUI / CDL checkpoint on Saturday night, August 29, 2020.  Vehicles entering the checkpoint will be stopped.  Drivers will then be evaluated for being under the influence of alcohol and checked for having a valid driver’s license.  Monrovia Police Officers will also be out in force through the end of summer conducting DUI Patrols.

Over the course of the past three years, there have been 336 DUI investigations, with 32 of those resulting in collisions with injuries, harming our citizens and neighbors of Monrovia. 

In California, this deadly crime led to countless deaths because someone failed to designate a sober driver.  Alcohol and drug-impaired deaths still make up the largest category of overall vehicle fatalities, with 29 percent of all deaths being caused by a drunk driver.  

Monrovia Police Department offers these reminders to ensure you have a safe night of fun without a DUI:

  • Always use a designated driver – a friend who is not drinking or other transportation
  • See someone who is clearly impaired try and drive? Take their keys and help them make other arrangements to find a sober way home
  • Report drunk drivers – Call 911 

Getting home safely is cheap, but getting a DUI is not!  Drivers caught driving impaired and charged with DUI can expect the impact of a DUI arrest to be upwards of $13,500.  This includes fines, fees, DUI classes, license suspension and other expenses, not to mention possible jail time. 

Funding for this checkpoint is provided to the Monrovia Police Department by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Source: Monrovia Police press release

- Brad Haugaard


Monrovia Police: She's Busted, He Escapes With Loot; Keys Left in Ignition for Five Minutes - Surprise! Car Gone; Employee Notices Keys Gone, Goes to His Car Just in Time to Stop Suspect; Etc.

 

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for August 13-19. - Brad Haugaard]


During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 365 service events, resulting in 58 investigations. 

Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspects Arrested
August 13 at 12:55 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 700 block of W. Huntington when he saw a suspicious vehicle occupied by two subjects parked near a closed business. The officer contacted the subjects and saw drug paraphernalia in plain view. An investigation revealed one of the subjects was on Post Release Community Supervision. A search of the vehicle resulted in the officers finding a controlled substance and prescription medications not belonging to either subjects. Both subjects were placed under arrest. 

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
August 13 at 12:49 p.m., security for a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain reported he had detained a male subject who shoplifted from the store. The subject left the store with merchandise he did not pay for and was taken into custody by store loss prevention. Officers arrived and conducted an investigation. The subject was arrested. 

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia / Unlawful Possession of Credit Card – Suspect Arrested
August 13 at 7:16 p.m., officers responded to the report of a subject loitering in the 700 block of W. Foothill. The subject was contacted and further investigation revealed he was in possession of someone else’s credit card and drug paraphernalia. He was arrested for the charges. 

Vehicle Burglary
August 14 at 8:39 a.m., a resident in the 1800 block of Sixth Avenue called police to report that her vehicle had been burglarized two days prior. The suspect broke her car window to gain entry and took the victim’s purse, which had been left in the vehicle. This investigation is continuing. 

Grand Theft Auto
August 14 at 9:06 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of W. Walnut walked outside his home and discovered someone had taken his pickup truck sometime during the night. Officers searched the area for the vehicle, but did not locate it. The vehicle was entered into the law enforcement stolen vehicle system. This investigation is continuing. 

Theft
August 14 at 10:54 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of E. Los Angeles discovered someone removed the catalytic converter from his vehicle sometime during this night. Officers arrived and conducted an investigation. This investigation is continuing. 

Injury Traffic Collision / Stolen Vehicle Recovered – Suspect Arrested
August 15 at 11:58 a.m., officers responded to a traffic collision near the intersection of Mayflower and Genoa. Upon arrival, they saw the two vehicles involved blocking the roadway. An officer recognized one of the drivers from previous encounters. Further investigation revealed the vehicle he was driving was stolen. He was arrested, but complained of pain. The suspect was released on a citation and transported to a hospital for treatment. The stolen vehicle was recovered. 

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
August 15 at 2:32 p.m., security for a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain called to say a subject was inside the business concealing property and was about to leave. Officers arrived and contacted the subject as he exited with the unpurchased property. The property was recovered and the subject was arrested. 

Theft – Suspect Arrested
August 15 at 6:59 p.m., an employee from a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain called police to report a male and female subject that left the store without paying for merchandise. Store security was able to detain the female suspect, but the male suspect fled with the merchandise. Officers arrived and conducted an investigation. The female suspect was placed under arrest. This investigation is continuing. 

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
August 16 at 8:25 a.m., officers responded to the 900 block of W. Huntington regarding a male and female couple involved in an argument. Investigation revealed that the male subject choked and pushed the female against a wall, causing an injury. The male was arrested and taken into custody. 

Grand Theft Auto
August 16 at 6:35 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 300 block of W. Duarte. The victim left his keys in the ignition and walked away from the vehicle for approximately five minutes. When he returned, his vehicle was gone. Officers responded and checked the area for the vehicle, but did not located it. This investigation is continuing. 

Battery
August 16 at 8:55 p.m., officers responded to the 1400 block of Encino regarding neighbors fighting over money. Both parties physically injured the other. Initially, both parties did not want prosecution, but one half later changed his mind. A verified complaint request was filed with the District Attorney’s office. 

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
August 16 at 9:00 p.m., an officer patrolling the 900 block of W. Huntington saw a subject loitering inside a hotel parking lot. The officer contacted the subject and saw the subject was in possession of drug paraphernalia. The subject was arrested. 

Vandalism – Suspect Arrested
August 17 at 1:32 a.m., officers responded to the 400 block of W. Colorado regarding subjects loitering inside an elementary school. Upon arrival, the subjects fled in a vehicle, but were stopped by another officer. A broken window was discovered at the school and the investigation resulted in one of the subjects being arrested for vandalism. 

Attempt Grand Theft Auto
August 17 at 12:32 p.m., an employee of a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain was assisting a customer with a product and placed his personal keys down. The customer picked up the keys and left the area. The employee realized he was missing his keys and went out to his vehicle. He found the customer sitting in his vehicle about to start it. He pulled the subject out of his vehicle and demanded his keys back. The subject returned the keys and left the scene on foot. Officers were notified and searched the area for the suspect, but were unsuccessful. The investigation is continuing. 

Battery
August 17 at 8:00 p.m., officers responded to the 500 block of E. Olive regarding a family disturbance. A male adult was intoxicated and battered his father-in-law. The father-in-law also battered the intoxicated subject in self-defense. A verified complaint request was filed with the District Attorney’s office. 

Warrant / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
August 18 at 8:05 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 500 block of W. Huntington when he saw a subject loitering in a parking lot. He contacted the subject and discovered the subject had a warrant for his arrest. While speaking to the subject, the subject’s girlfriend arrived. The subject then attempted to pass his girlfriend an item, which was intercepted by the officer. The item was discovered to be a bag containing multiple controlled substances. The subject was arrested. 

Non-Injury Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
August 19 at 3:12 p.m., a driver was heading east on Almond when he collided with a parked vehicle near Almond’s intersection at Shamrock. The driver exited the vehicle and began walking away from the scene of the accident. Officers arrived and located the driver down the street and found he had sustained no injuries. Officers spoke with the driver and determined the driver was under the influence of alcohol. The suspect was arrested for driving under the influence and held for a sobering period. 

Lyft Rides in Monrovia (and California) Are Back On!

The Lyft ride-sharing program, which powers most of Monrovia's GoMonrovia transit program, was going to end at midnight tonight, but Lyft has announced that "We’re back on." The company says that rideshare operations will not be suspended in California.

The company adds:

"The California court has granted our request for a further stay, so our rideshare operations can continue uninterrupted, for now. Thanks to the tens of thousands of drivers, riders, and public officials who urged California to keep rideshare available for so many people who depend on it."

The City of Monrovia had earlier announced that the Lyft portion of GoMonrovia would be ending at midnight tonight.

The problem is Assembly Bill 5, which requires rideshare companies, including Lyft and Uber, to reclassify their contract workers as employees.

The city says that, "According to Lyft, the costs associated with reclassification are extreme and cost-prohibitive."

City Manager Dylan Feik said Californians will ultimately make a decision (Proposition 22) about whether to exempt rideshare companies from AB5.” https://is.gd/YkBkHG

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at B&C Teriyaki



Lunch at B&C Teriyaki, at the corner of Foothill and Madison. Got the Chicken Teriyaki Bowl for $6.35 and a small drink for $1.50. Cash only. A nice price for a good meal. 

- Brad Haugaard 

School Board to Get Reports on Start of School Year, Efforts to Ensure Attendance

At a special meeting of the Monrovia School Board, the board will get "the latest updates on the start of the 2020-21 school year in a distance learning environment" from Superintendent Katherine Thorossian, Superintendent and a report on the district's efforts to ensure learning continuity and attendance from Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services Dr. Sue Kaiser. https://is.gd/VilCmK

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 636 - Up 10; No New Deaths

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 8/18/2020. Changes since 8/17/2020.

City of Monrovia: 636 cases (up 10), 34 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 70 cases (up 1), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 2 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Metro Line Detour Saturday Night and Sunday Morning

If you're planning to take the train towards LA anytime between 8 p.m. this Saturday and 10 a.m. Sunday, you'll need to catch a bus at the Monrovia train station. Southern California Edison performs utility work that'll block the rail line. https://is.gd/EPzbSU


- Brad Haugaard

School Meals for After-School Program Participants

Monrovia Unified Schools will be providing breakfast, lunch and supper or snack if children participate in an after school program, based on income. Details: https://is.gd/PAx1E8

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 626, Up 4. No New Deaths

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 8/17/2020. Changes since 8/16/2020.

City of Monrovia: 626 cases (up 4), 34 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 69 cases (unchanged), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 2 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police Want You to Beware of Fake Cop Scam

The Monrovia Police Department wants community members to be aware of a phone scam that is currently active in the area. We know scammers are out there, impersonating the authorities and conjuring up different schemes to fool people into giving them money. Impersonators can create a sense of urgent fear, telling you to send money or provide your personal identifying information. The scammers rig the caller ID to look like they are calling from the police department, when in actuality they aren’t. 

Monrovia officers have received reports from community members, who stated that callers contacted them claiming to be members of the police department. The law enforcement impersonator often times:

  • Refers to the community member by name.
  • Tells the community member they missed a court appearance or jury duty.
  • The caller states they need to send money or a warrant will be issued for their arrest.

Sometimes scams such as these will include spoofing a legitimate police agency phone number and using a real name of a law enforcement officer in an attempt to gain the trust of the victim. No government agency of any kind takes gift cards as payment. 

The Monrovia Police Department reminds you to be aware that:

The Monrovia Police Department does not call individuals and demand or request money under any circumstances.

  • The Monrovia Police Department or any other legitimate law enforcement agency does not call community members seeking payment for outstanding traffic citations or warrants. This includes claims of unpaid federal or state taxes.
  • If you are a resident of Monrovia and fall victim to these scammers with financial loss, you are encouraged to file a report by calling the Monrovia Police Department’s Non-Emergency line at (626) 256-8000.

So what can you do to protect yourself against imposters?

  • Don’t trust caller ID – it can be faked. Even if it might look like a real call, don’t trust it.
  • Never pay with a gift card or wire transfer. If someone tells you to pay this way, it’s a scam.
  • Check with the real agency. Look up their number. Call them to find out if they’re trying to reach you – and why.
  • Never give personal or financial information to an unsolicited caller or email.
Source: Monrovia Police Department press release

- Brad Haugaard

COVID Testing Available in Monrovia Tuesdays and Fridays

Drive-through (stay in your car) COVID testing for symptomatic and non-symptomatic people is now available at Monrovia Health Center, at 330 W. Maple Avenue. Results available in 2 - 3 business days. 

Testing is available on Tuesdays and Fridays, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Appointments are required. To make an appointment, call (626) 256-1600, from Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

- Brad Haugaard

Milk Truck Crashes on 210 Near Magnolia

An eastbound big rig carrying 38,000 pounds of milk crashed through the freeway retaining wall and ended up near Evergreen (the south-side freeway access road) near Magnolia about 2 a.m. today (Tuesday). https://is.gd/NogBEA


- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 622 - Up 7

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 8/16/2020. Changes since 8/15/2020.

City of Monrovia: 622 cases (up 7), 34 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 69 cases (unchanged), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 2 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Dan: Sweet and Attentive, Likes Carrots

Five-year-old Dan is sweet and attentive, and loves resting his head on his foster parent’s lap. He enjoys watching his foster parent chop vegetables, and even gets a healthy, crunchy carrot to snack on sometimes! Dan came to us as a stray, but with a little patience he’s warmed up to so many people and discovered that he especially loves back scratches. Dan would do best as the only dog in the home, and just wants to be your one-and-only.

The adoption fee for dogs is $140. All dog adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.

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 and fill out an online adoption application. Adoptions are by appointment only.

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

- Brad Haugaard

Heat Warning Extended to Thursday - Tuesday Expected to be Hottest

The National Weather Service has again extended it's excessive heat warning for the San Gabriel Valley, from Wednesday to Thursday at 9 p.m. "Dangerously hot conditions with high temperatures between 98 and 110 degrees expected. Hottest on Tuesday." https://is.gd/lwnia9

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 615 - Up 1

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 8/15/2020. Changes since 8/14/2020, although County Health is complaining of a backlog in processing cases.

City of Monrovia: 615 cases (up 1), 34 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 69 cases (up 1), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 2 cases (up -1), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Homeless Man Arrested in Connection With Azusa Canyon Fire

A homeless man living in the Azusa Canyon riverbed has been arrested in connection with the Azusa Canyon fire, the "Ranch" fire. https://is.gd/MMuKjK

- Brad Haugaard

Ranch Fire Kicks Up


The Ranch Fire, in Azusa Canyon, northeast of Monrovia, seemed to have burned low today. Fire helicopters were still dropping water but no smoke was visible from Azusa Canyon, as you can see in the top photo here, which was taken Saturday morning. But the fire apparently kicked up again, as you can see from the bottom photo, taken Saturday evening from Monrovia. The City of Monrovia says there is “no immediate threat to our community.“

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 614 - Up 19; No New Deaths

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 8/14/2020. Changes since 8/12/2020. County Health reports that these numbers include "delayed reporting of a few hundred cases from yesterday."

City of Monrovia: 614 cases (up 19), 34 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 68 cases (up 2), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 3 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Hot! Hot! Hot! Through Wednesday - Up to 111 Degrees!

The National Weather Service has extended it's excessive heat warning for the San Gabriel Valley to Wednesday at 9 p.m. "Dangerously hot conditions with high temperatures between 102 and 111 expected." https://is.gd/lwnia9

- Brad Haugaard

Library Park Fountain Has Broken Pump; Canyon Park, Wilderness Areas Closed; And More

Library Park fountain ... when it was working.

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

~ Monrovia Canyon Park and the Hillside Wilderness Preserve are closed through the weekend because of high temperatures and bad air quality.

~ The Library Park Fountain is broken. One of the fountain pumps failed and needs to be repaired. Feik says that, "we are anticipating that the fountain will be down for about the next 4 weeks."

~  LA County is offering COVID-19 Rent Relief  to low-income renters who have struggled to pay their rent and/or who are behind on paying rent. More information at  rentrelief.lacda.org

~ Monrovia Area Partnership (MAP) will hold an online meeting on August 22 at 11 a.m. to update the community on:

  • Meet Your Monrovia Police Officers
  • Mayor Tom Adams gives insight on the Monrovia Ad Hoc Committee
  • Q&A with Monrovia City Manager, Dylan Feik

To register, click here: https://is.gd/7TV7pG

~  The Public Works team has pressure washed and painted the canopies of the bus stops along Huntington Drive.

- Brad Haugaard

School District Releases Back-to-School Roadmap

The Monrovia School District has released its "2020-21 Back to School Roadmap." It includes information about:

  • Elementary and secondary school schedules
  • Student wellness
  • Mountain Park Independent Study
  • Special Education
  • Nutrition Services
  • Technology Support

Details: https://is.gd/XwLuNK

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Air Affected by Azusa Fire


Monrovia is being affected by gunky air from the Azusa fire. The brown you see here is poor quality air. The green is good quality. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 595 - Up 2; No New Deaths

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 8/12/2020. Changes since 8/11/2020.

City of Monrovia: 595 cases (up 2), 34 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 66 cases (unchanged), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 3 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Fire in Mountains Near Monrovia


A huge plume of smoke in the mountains above Monrovia at about 4:45 p.m. today. It appears to perhaps be near Azusa Canyon. 

UPDATE: It appears the fire is near the Azusa community of Mountain Cove, which is in Azusa Canyon. There are reports that portions of Mountain Cove are being evacuated. 

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at The Diplomat

Lunch at The Diplomat - outside under the shade. On the north side of Lime just east of Myrtle. Got the Beef Shawarma for $15 and a beer for $7. Ah! I’ve missed draft beer. So tasty. Shawarma was really good, too!

- Brad Haugaard 

Students! Name - Or Decorate - a Tunnel Boring Machine

"The Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts is inviting Los Angeles County students in grades 1 through 12 to help us name the Clearwater Project tunnel boring machine (TBM) before it starts its quiet journey to build a new tunnel that will protect our local waterways. We also need your help to decorate the TBM with your artwork. To participate in our TBM naming and art contests, please see details below. Winners will receive recognition and cool prizes." Details: https://is.gd/2BMp40

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Cars Hit Bicyclist, Pedestrian; Unknown Woman Accepts Delivery of Someone Else's MacBook; Drunk and Cussing at People; Etc.

 [Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for August 6-12. - Brad Haugaard]


During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 380 service events, resulting in 76 investigations. 

Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
August 6 at 7:44 a.m., officers were patrolling the parking lot of a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain when they saw a male subject sleeping in his vehicle. They approached the vehicle and saw a methamphetamine pipe on the passenger seat. When the subject was contacted, he was also found to be in possession of methamphetamine. The subject was arrested. 

Package Theft
August 6 at 3:23 p.m., a resident in the 600 block of W. Lime received a text notification that her UPS packages were delivered and signed for the day before. She had no knowledge of this. She contacted UPS and confirmed her Apple Mac book and Air pods were given to an unknown female suspect. This investigation is continuing. 

Theft From a Vehicle
August 6 at 5:04 p.m., a resident in the 100 block of N. Garfield reported a theft that occurred sometime during the day from their vehicle, which was parked in their driveway. An officer reviewed a security camera, and it appears the suspects entered the vehicle through an unlocked driver-side door. A set of keys were taken from the center console. This investigation is continuing. 

Injury Traffic Collision
August 7 at 10:26 a.m., a caller reported a bicyclist and a motorist had just collided into one another at the intersection of Primrose and Colorado. The bicyclist was complaining of pain to his left knee, but refused medical attention. The driver of the vehicle was found at fault and was issued a citation for the driving violation. 

Drunk in Public – Suspect Arrested
August 7 at 10:17 p.m., an employee from a business in the 400 block of S. Myrtle called police to report a subject at the location who was yelling obscenities and racial slurs at patrons. Officers arrived and determined the subject was intoxicated and unable to care for himself or others. He was arrested and held for a sobering period. 

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
August 8 at 12:34 a.m., a caller reported a possible drunk driver in the area of Colorado and Myrtle. Officers arrived in the area and located the vehicle. The officer observed the driver commit a traffic violation and conducted a traffic stop. After a DUI investigation, it was determined the driver was intoxicated. She was arrested for DUI and held for a sobering period. 

Trespassing Authorization
August 8 at 7:06 a.m., a resident in the 400 block of Hurstview reported her neighbor had trespassed onto her gated property earlier that morning, yelling and screaming at the resident. The resident completed a no-trespass authorization against her neighbor and the neighbors were advised. 

Petty Theft From a Vehicle
August 8 at 11:16 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of Norumbega reported that two days prior someone took his backpack out of his unlocked vehicle, which was parked in front of his home. His backpack contained a locked, disassembled handgun. He waited to report the crime because he thought he may have misplaced his backpack at first and had been searching for it. 

Stolen Mail Found
August 8 at 11:26 a.m., a resident in the 600 block of W. Foothill reported finding someone's mail scattered across his apartment complex parking lot. The mail belonged to an Arcadia resident, so Arcadia Police Department responded and collected it. The Arcadia resident confirmed it had been stolen. 

Missing Person Located
August 8 at 8:59 p.m., an employee from a business in the 700 block of W. Huntington called to report a suspicious subject loitering in the lobby. An officer responded and spoke with the subject. The officer learned the subject was a critical missing from Alhambra. The officer bought the subject some food while they waited for Alhambra Police Department to respond. 

Petty Theft From a Vehicle
August 9 at 7:23 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of Atara reported someone had entered her unlocked vehicle sometime during the night and took personal items. Another resident in the same block reported the same thing happened to two of their unlocked cars during the night. This investigation is continuing. 

Bicycle Theft
August 9 at 8:56 a.m., a resident in the 400 block of Genoa, adjacent to the wash, reported someone entered his backyard and took his blue bicycle. This investigation is continuing. 

Injury Traffic Collision
August 10 at 9:06 a.m., a pedestrian was walking in a parking lot in the 1600 block of S. Mountain when she was struck by a vehicle at a speed of less than 10 miles per hour. The pedestrian was thrown a few feet and struck the ground. She suffered non-life- threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. The driver was determined to be at fault and was issued a citation. 

Wanted Person – Suspect Arrested
August 10 at 4:43 p.m., a caller reported a subject in the area of Greystone and Mountain that he knew was wanted by the police. Officers located a vehicle matching the description provided to dispatch and initiated a traffic stop. When the vehicle came to a stop, the subject exited the vehicle and fled on foot. Officers chased the subject through several yards and streets. The subject was eventually detained and arrested. 

Injury Traffic Collision
August 11 at 7:12 p.m., a traffic collision was reported at the intersection of Huntington and Shamrock. Officers responded and checked on the wellbeing of the occupants. Two people were transported to a local hospital for complaint of pain. Investigation continuing. 

Vehicle Burglary
August 12 at 6:59 p.m., a resident in the 300 block of N. Canyon called to report a vehicle burglary. Officers arrived and saw the driver-side window had been smashed and the vehicle had been ransacked. The owner stated nothing was taken from the vehicle. Investigation continuing. 

Pro Active Tutoring's Duke Freyermuth Retiring to Texas

Here's a nice story on the retirement of Monrovia's Duke Freyermuth, who headed PAT (Pro Active Tutoring), which provides tutoring to students whose families may not be able to afford traditional tutoring. Freyermuth is moving to Texas to be closer to his grandchildren.  https://is.gd/hrxXpB

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 593, Up 7 - No Deaths Since July 30

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 8/11/2020. Changes since 8/10/2020.

City of Monrovia: 593 cases (up 7), 34 deaths (unchanged since July 30)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 66 cases (unchanged), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 3 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Heat Blast As High as 106 Degrees - Friday to Monday

The National Weather Service has issued a heat warning for the San Gabriel Valley from 11 a.m. Friday through 9 p.m. Monday. "Dangerously hot conditions with high temperatures between 102 and 106 expected." https://is.gd/6zpdia

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: Up 6, to 586

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 8/10/2020. Changes since 8/08/2020.

City of Monrovia: 586 cases (up 6), 34 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 66 cases (unchanged), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 3 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Sushi Nakata Review

Restaurant reviewer Merrill Schindler has a very positive review of the tiny Sushi Nakata restaurant, on the south side of Lime just east of Myrtle. Here: https://shrtm.nu/YPR7

- Brad Haugaard 

Help a Monrovia Scout Help Those Who 'Need a Little Bit of Help'

"My name is Nathan Schwandt and I am working on my Eagle Scout project. I am serving the Foothills Kitchen here in Monrovia, which helps the homeless population. I am holding a donation drive for blankets, sleeping bags, tents, and brand new socks.

"The blankets and sleeping bags can be used, but they must be washed before brought to our collection day. We are going to hold the collection day outside of the Methodist Church At 140 E. Palm Ave., Monrovia CA 91016. We will be out there on August 22 from 10 AM to 2 PM. We will also be collecting monetary donations if you don’t have blankets to give but you want to help. The money will be used to purchase new items that are still needed after the collection day.

"I just graduated from Monrovia High School as part of the Math and Science Academy. I am going to be attending Pasadena City College in the fall. I really like the idea of this project, because it helped so many people who are overlooked in our society. Sometimes people just need a little bit of help, and I am happy to offer that help for them."

If you would like to donate prior to the collection day, please contact Nathan at 253-0185 to arrange a drop-off time. You can also donate to: gofundme – Nathan Schwandt’s Eagle Scout Project

- Brad Haugaard

School Board Member Ed Gililland Won't Run Again - Endorses Jennifer Anderson

School board member Ed Gililland has announced that he will not run again for school board. He writes:

Hello Monrovians!  Contrary to earlier posts I made, I have decided not to run for another term on the Monrovia Unified School District Board of Education.  After 15 years on the Board, making that decision was not easy. MUSD is special, and we have created a District that is recognized for excellence in LA County and also by several nationwide organizations and even internationally. I have felt privileged and proud to be a part of the leadership of this great organization. I will miss that, but have realized that over the next two years I have several personal issues that will require much of my time and will not allow me to give our schools the attention they need and deserve. We have a great Board and am happy that two of our more experienced members are running to stay on the Board. 

I am also happy to put my support firmly behind an outstanding candidate that has given more to MUSD over the last 10+ years than any other volunteer I have ever known. She is smart, dedicated , and a very proud parent of MUSD students. Jennifer Anderson has been a wonderful leader for our PTAs, High ...

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 580 Cases - Up 15 In 2 Days - No New Deaths

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 8/08/2020. Changes since 8/06/2020.

City of Monrovia: 580 cases (up 15), 34 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 66 cases (up -1), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 3 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Barney - It's Time to Settle Down

 

Nine-year-old Barney probably spent his entire life up until now on the streets, and now he's ready to live that cozy indoor life. Even though Barney isn't used to being around humans, he'll still meow and approach people briefly. We can't say for sure whether he'll ever be a lap cat, but with patience and love, Barney still has so much potential to be a wonderful pet. His fur may be a bit ragged, but his eyes are as bright as his future!

The adoption fee for cats is $90. All cat adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines.

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 and fill out an online adoption application. Adoptions are by appointment only.

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

- Brad Haugaard

Citrus College Wins Top Credit Rating

The credit rating of the Citrus Community College District, which serves Monrovia, was upgraded to the second highest level, Aa1, this July by Moody's Investors Service. Also, Standard & Poor's reaffirmed the district's AA rating.

Moody's said the district has demonstrated continued growth in its tax base, has a proactive management team, and a conservative approach to budgeting.  Standard & Poor's

- Brad Haugaard

Announcement of School Board Candidacy of Traci Gholar

Following is an announcement by Traci Gholar of her candidacy for the Monrovia Board of Education. Other candidates are welcome to submit announcements. - Brad Haugaard



As a long time Monrovia resident, I am excited to announce my candidacy for the Monrovia Unified School District Governing Board. I have lived in Monrovia for thirty-four years and I have been an educator for thirty-three years.

Prior to being recruited to serve as principal at Samuel Gompers Middle School, I served for twenty years in Monrovia Unified School District. Initially, I was a classroom teacher at Clifton Middle School and then I transferred to Monrovia High School in 1992. While working at Monrovia High, I transitioned from the classroom to administration, first as Activities Director and then, eventually, I became an Assistant Principal. In 2008, I was appointed Principal of Clifton Middle School where I served for three years. My passion in education has been fueled by the moral imperative to cultivate a public school system that functions with collaboration, positive restorative practices, and collective action.

I am looking forward to continuing my service as an educator by seeking a seat on the MUSD Governing Board. Being a member of the School Board will provide me an opportunity to expand my sphere of service from one school site to an entire school system and to help to create positive change for the entirety of Monrovia’s youth.

Now is the time to elect a Monrovia educator. Now is the time for a voice who represents the diversity of our community. Now is the time to bring experience, integrity, and inclusivity to the challenging work of reimaging the Monrovia schools so that they are equipped to meet the needs of our current and future realities. Now is the time to cast your vote for someone who will passionately fight for the education of all Monrovia students.

Please take the time to visit my website at tracigholarmusd.com to learn more about my core values and how you can support my candidacy. I hope to earn your vote on November 3rd.

Monrovia 2120

I'd love to hear Monrovians respond to this question:

What would you like Monrovia to look like in 100 years?

I'm asking you to look beyond the Coronavirus and the November elections and imagine what you would like Monrovia to look like not in your lifetime, or probably even your children's lifetimes, but perhaps in your grandchildren's lifetimes.

Respond in the Comments section below, or on Facebook, here.

- Brad Haugaard



School Board to Consider Revised High School Music Courses, Garden Programs, Revised Budget

At its next meeting (https://is.gd/7h0AF8) the Monrovia Board of Education will consider ...

~ A revised high school stringed instruments course (https://is.gd/pjZ6Gc) and a revised Marching Band course (https://is.gd/4csgAw).

~ A contract with Food ED for an Elementary Garden and Food Education program for Bradoaks and Plymouth elementary schools. $6,000. https://is.gd/pRAZgB

~ Another contract with Food ED, this one to rehab garden areas at Santa Fe Middle School for $7,565, plus annual maintenance of $2,500. https://is.gd/0UDgm5

~ Approving a revised budget for the 2020-21 school year. Income $51.3 million; Expenditures $45.46 million. https://is.gd/rGuiES

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: Up 10 to 565. No New Deaths

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 8/06/2020. Changes since 8/05/2020.

City of Monrovia: 565 cases (up 10), 34 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 67 cases (unchanged), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 3 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Water Meets 'All Water Quality Standards'; Two-Truck Trash Pick-Up; Water Conservation Campaign

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

~ "We are happy to report that, again, for 2019, the City of Monrovia has met all water quality standards." Here's the report: https://is.gd/YdcAAe

~ Because of the plague Athens was picking up trash and recyclables in a single truck, only sorting recyclables mechanically. But, as of August 1, it has returned to the separate collection of trash and recyclables.

~ Monrovia is again participating in the Wyland National Mayor's Challenge for Water Conservation. To support the city visit www.mywaterpledge.com and commit to conserving water. The challenge will recognize and award cities with the highest level of pledges.

- Brad Haugaard

Fellowship Church Reports More Than $3 Million Income for First Six Months of 2020

Monrovia's Fellowship Church has released a financial report of its general fund for the first six months of 2020 which shows income of more than $3 million. (The 2019 numbers do not include $545,000 in special gifts to purchase the church's Huntington Drive building.)

The church reports that because of the pandemic, giving is down 4%, but that it was able to reduce its spending by 15%. 

Also, it reports that it has moved its "accountability to the hands of a nationally recognized non-profit CPA firm called CapinCrouse. CapinCrouse performed reviews for 2018 and 2019, and is scheduled to perform a full audit for 2020. They present their findings to the Fellowship Board on an annual basis."

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 555, up 9

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 8/05/2020 . Changes since 8/04/2020 .

City of Monrovia: 555 cases (up 9), 34 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 67 cases (up 1), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 3 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner from 38 Degrees

Got dinner from 38 Degrees, on the south side of Colorado a bit east of Myrtle. Got the brisket plate for $16. Very good and enough for two meals. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: Fight on Bus Over Mask; Beemer Flasher; Not Speeding; People Drunk and High; Fake $100 Bills; Driver Sorry He Hit Cyclist; And So Forth...

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 30 – August 5. - Brad Haugaard]


During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 408 service events, resulting in 75 investigations. 

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
July 31 at 7:44 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 800 block of Alta when he saw a male subject sleeping in his vehicle with a can of beer on the center console. When the subject was contacted, he was found to be in possession of a pipe that had been used to smoke methamphetamine. The beer can was empty. The subject was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia. 

Vandalism
July 31 at 10:55 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 100 block of E. Maple when he saw fresh graffiti spray painted on a wall. Graffiti removal was notified. 

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
July 31 at 4:14 p.m., a caller reported a male subject sitting in his parked vehicle in a business parking lot in the 100 block of W. Huntington, and she said he appeared to be intoxicated. Officers arrived and located the subject. He was heavily intoxicated and officers determined he was unable to care for his own safety. He was arrested and held for a sobering period. 

Shoplifting / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
July 31 at 6:36 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain regarding a shoplifting incident that just occurred. A male subject entered the business, concealed merchandise, and then exited the store without making any attempt to pay for the items. The suspect was detained, and further investigation revealed he was also in possession of a controlled substance. The suspect was arrested. 

Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspects Arrested
August 1 at 1:42 a.m., an officer observed a vehicle traveling at a very low rate of speed, impeding traffic near the intersection of California and Huntington. A traffic stop was conducted. The investigation revealed the female driver was in possession of a controlled substance and the male passenger was in possession of drug paraphernalia. Both suspects were arrested. 

Vehicle Tampering – Suspect Arrested
August 1 at 3:05 a.m., officers responded to the 400 block of Genoa regarding a report of a suspicious subject checking door handles to various vehicles in the area. A female subject matching the description given was found and positively identified by witnesses. She was arrested for vehicle tampering. 

Warrants – Suspect Arrested
August 1 at 4:10 a.m., an officer observed a vehicle traveling near Mayflower and Huntington without its headlights on during hours of darkness. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was found to have several outstanding warrants for his arrest. The driver was arrested for the warrants. 

Grand Theft
August 1 at 9:31 a.m., an employee of a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington reported that four days earlier a male subject had stolen a large dollar amount worth of merchandise. They did not call the police immediately to apprehend the suspect while he was committing the crime because they needed to obtain permission from their corporate headquarters to call the police. The investigation is continuing. 

Battery
August 1 at 10:31 a.m., the driver of a public bus that was traveling along Huntington at Myrtle called police to report a fight. One of the passengers hit another passenger during an argument over not wearing a mask. The suspect then exited the bus and fled the area. Officers searched for the suspect, but were unable to locate him. This investigation is continuing. 

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
August 1 at 6:30 p.m., officers responded to a park in the 700 block of E. Lemon regarding an assault. The victim reported that the father of her children hit her. She had a large bruise on her cheek. The male suspect was arrested for domestic violence. 

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
August 1 at 6:57 p.m., officers responded to the intersection of Eighth and Duarte regarding a suspicious vehicle parked along a red curb line. Officers made contact with the single occupant of the vehicle, who said he had been parked there for three hours waiting for his daughter. Further investigation revealed the occupant was in possession of a pipe used to smoke methamphetamine. The suspect was arrested. 

Counterfeit Money
August 2 at 12:24 a.m., officers responded to a business in the 200 block of W. Huntington regarding two suspects in the drive-thru, attempting to pay with a counterfeit 100 dollar bill. The clerk kept the bill and called police. The suspects left prior to officers arriving. This investigation is continuing. 

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
August 3 at 4:08 a.m., officers responded to a school in the 900 block of E. Lemon regarding a burglary alarm activation. While checking the classrooms, they found the door to a classroom ajar and a subject inside. The subject said he was looking for water and a place to relax. The school's principal responded and confirmed that nothing was missing and no damage had been done. Further investigation revealed the subject was in possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arrested. 

Public Intoxication / Battery – Suspect Arrested
August 3 at 11:23 a.m., officers responded to the 400 block of W. Foothill regarding a subject urinating in public. Officers located the subject, who was extremely intoxicated and unable to care for himself. While attempting to take the suspect into custody for public intoxication, he spit in the face of one of the officers. He was arrested and held for a sobering period. 

Indecent Exposure – Suspect Arrested
August 3 at 12:18 p.m., officers responded to the intersection of Myrtle and Palm regarding a male suspect in an older blue/gray BMW exposing himself to female subjects in the area. Officers located the suspect and he was positively identified by the victims. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody. 

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
August 3 at 7:16 p.m., numerous calls were received by police dispatch reporting a heavily intoxicated man walking in the 200 block of W. Foothill. Officers located the subject and determined he was too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested and held for a sobering period. 

Traffic Offense / Stolen Property Located
August 4 at 6:53 a.m., an officer saw a vehicle commit several traffic violations near the intersection of Monterey and Huntington. The officer initiated a traffic stop. As the officer approached the driver, the vehicle fled the area. Officers searched the area and located the vehicle, unoccupied, near Myrtle and Pomona. The driver had fled the scene and was not located. An investigation revealed stolen property inside of the vehicle. This investigation is continuing. 

Commercial Burglary
August 4 at 1:18 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 1600 block of S. Magnolia regarding a commercial burglary. The property manager realized someone had broken into the location sometime during the night and removed numerous key fobs to company vehicles. This investigation is continuing. 

Vandalism – Suspect Arrested
August 4 at 7:56 p.m., a caller reported a female subject vandalizing numerous vehicles and windows in the 700 block of W. Huntington. Officers checked the area and located the suspect. She was arrested and taken into custody. 

Hit and Run Injury Traffic Collision
August 5 at 2:47 p.m., a bicyclist was traveling north on Primrose and entered the intersection of Primrose and Olive. A white sedan traveling west on Olive drove through the stop sign and collided into the bicyclist. The bicyclist was thrown to the ground by the impact. The driver pulled up next to the bicyclist on the ground and yelled that he was sorry, but did not stop and fled the area heading west. The bicyclist sustained minor injuries. The investigation is continuing. 

Wanted Person – Suspect Arrested
August 5 at 7:28 p.m., an officer saw a vehicle commit a vehicle code violation in the 700 block of W. Huntington. He initiated a traffic stop and saw there were three occupants in the vehicle. An investigation revealed all three were on parole for burglary and robbery. One of the subjects was wanted for a grand theft auto in Monrovia. She was arrested.