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Canyon Park Will Be Closed at Least Six Months; Wilderness Preserve Should Open Soon

City Manager Dylan Feik reports:

"When the Bobcat Fire entered Monrovia Canyon Park, firefighters used a defensive approach to protect buildings and structures, including the Nature Center, Ranger Station, cabins, and restrooms. The fire suppression tactics, which included controlled burns, burned a significant amount of brush in the park but all buildings remain standing with only smoke damage. Some portions of the park remain with plentiful greenery and shrubs, while others are left burned to a crisp. Popular hiking trails are no longer accessible and debris from high above is already rolling down the hills and landing on park trails. In some cases, staff is already noticing trees falling over since the fire. In total, about 278 acres of Monrovia Canyon Park is damaged while much more land area is damaged above the park, but still within the watershed area. With the need for ongoing damage assessments, insurance reviews and repairs, we anticipate the park will be closed for at least six months and possibly longer. During this time, to secure Monrovia Canyon Park, a fence has been installed and a chain lock has been set to secure the gate. Additionally, signs are posted as the area remains very dangerous.

"The community will be relieved to know that the Hillside Wilderness Preserve suffered minimal burns and will be open to the public much sooner. Staff is installing replacement signage and fencing, where appropriate, but please know that popular trails within the Hillside Wilderness Preserve, including Lower Clamshell Trail, will soon be reopened."

- Brad Haugaard

Halloween Movie Nights at Recreation Park

- Brad Haugaard

School Board to Honor Teacher of the Year, Daniel Ray; Report on Start of School; Letting Boys & Girls Club Use Mayflower Campus

At its next meeting (https://is.gd/mSS7sE) the Monrovia Board of Education will ...

~ Congratulate Clifton Middle School teacher Daniel Ray on being named the "MUSD 2020-21 Teacher of the Year."

~ Hear a report by Superintendent Katherine Thorossian on the start of the school year, including an update on the COVID Exposure Management Plan.

~ Consider updating an agreement with the Boys and Girls Club of the Foothills to use the Mayflower Elementary School campus for a Learning Pod and After School Program during the 2020-21 school year.

- Brad Haugaard

Reservations Open to Get Free Compost

Reservations now open to get free compost and mulch at the Public Works Yard on Saturday, Nov. 7 and Nov. 14, 8 a.m. - noon. Face covering required. Bring gloves, a shovel, and a container no larger than 32 gallons. A drive up only event. For more information and to make a reservation, contact Jamie Bumia, at 932-5579.

- Brad Haugaard

Hazardous Waste Roundup in Monrovia Oct. 31

Household hazardous and electronic waste drive-thru collection Oct. 31, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Monrovia City Yard on Mountain. Waste materials must be in the trunk (or bed of pick-up in a sturdy box (you gotta leave the box) with no other items. No explosives, ammunition, radioactive materials, controlled substances, trash, tires, or large appliances (like refrigerators, stoves and washing machines).

- Brad Haugaard

Paper Lantern Kits for Kids to Celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival


Free paper lantern kits for children to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival. Pick up locations and times: 

  • Wednesday, Sept. 30: Kiwanis Park at Grand Avenue, 1 to 4 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Oct. 7: Lucinda Garcia Park, 1 to 4 p.m. 

In Eastern cultures, Mid-Autumn Festival (or Lunar Festival) celebrates family, reunions, and gratitude. On this day, the Autumn moon is at its fullest and roundest, shining brightly in the night.

- Brad Haugaard

Helping Wildlife Injured in Bobcat Fire; Fountain Running; Higher Trash Bills Coming

 


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

~ Library Park fountain is back up and running. The City's maintenance contractor was able to locate the needed replacement part and install it sooner than anticipated.

~ In the wake of the Bobcat Fire residents have been reporting injured wildlife. The city is working with Department of Fish and Wildlife to assist injured animals. To report an an injured animal, call 255-6799. Include: specific location of animal, apparent health of the animal, any description of the animal and its species.

~ You'll be paying extra on your next trash bill. Athens will charge an extra 5.66 percent retroactive to July 1. That's because on Aug. 4 the Monrovia City Council approved a 5.66% rate increase for Athens Services, which includes costs related to Assembly Bill 1594, the Consumer Price Index, and wages. For more information, call Public Works at 932-5575. 

~ With street paving completed, asphalt speed bumps will be placed in two locations along  Bradbury Road and Terrado Drive. The work will take place in the coming weeks and will take two days to complete.

- Brad Haugaard

Max: Full of Puppy Energy and Love for People


Four-year-old Max absolutely loves being around people! He has lots of exuberant puppy energy and loves walks, and he’s super smart and picks up on commands really quickly. With his happy smile and constantly wagging tail, Max is a joy to be around. Max would do best as your only pet, but he truly loves people and will give so much love to his forever family! 

If you’re wanting to spend some time with Max before you adopt, he’s eligible for a 30-day trial. Take him home for a month, get to know and love him, and we’ll provide all the supplies. At the end of 30 days, you can make your adoption official. Email foster@pasadenahumane.org to get your adoption trial started!

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.

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

- Brad Haugaard

Citrus Opens Automotive and Diesel Tech to On-Site Training.

 

Citrus College, which serves Monrovia, has recently reopened labs for students in the Automotive and Diesel Technology programs to train essential workers for the Transportation and Logistics industry, according to Dr. Edward C. Ortell, Citrus governing board member. Labs and clinical training for several other essential worker programs requiring in-person hours are also available at Citrus College, or will be available soon, he said.

He added that the classes will require basic COVID-19 protections, such as temperature checks, mask-wearing, personal protective equipment, and distancing of work stations. The college has developed a detailed set of checklists for instructional labs that follow guidelines provided by the Los Angeles Department of Public Health. These include specific protocols for parking, arrival and departure from campus, floor diagrams for standing and walking, the cleaning of classrooms and equipment and a great many other details. The limited number of students who are enrolled in these labs have been informed of the protocols and are also reminded of the risk of potential exposure to COVID-19.

Source: Citrus College press release

- Brad Haugaard

Hot This Week - To 105 Degrees

The National Weather Service has issued a heat warning for the Monrovia area extending from Tuesday at 10 a.m. to Thursday at 8 p.m.- temperatures up to 105 degrees. https://is.gd/5rFj11

- Brad Haugaard

Dead of Night to Feature Murder of Monrovian LaJoya McCoy

David and Alicia Clark speak with Dateline this Monday about their niece, LaJoya.

Updated: Dateline's "The Dead of Night," on the murder of LaJoya McCoy, will now air this Friday, October 9 at 10 p.m. It was previously scheduled to air September 28 but was preempted due to sports. Includes interviews with LaJoya's Uncle David and Aunt Alicia Clark, LaJoya's best friend Eva Mendoza, Detective Eddie Brown and more. 

- Brad Haugaard

Weekly Coronavirus Count: 743, Up 13, One More Death

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 9/23/2020. Changes since 9/16/2020.

City of Monrovia: 743 cases (up 13), 38 deaths up 1
Unincorporated Monrovia: 81 cases (up 1), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Suspect Refuses to be Released From Jail; Burglars Removed With Baseball Bat; Amazon Truck Stolen; Burglar Snags Loose Change; Etc.

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


During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 335 service events, resulting in 61 investigations. 

Domestic Battery – Suspect Arrested
September 17 at 1:54 a.m., officers responded to a family disturbance in the 500 block of W. Duarte. A male and female couple had been arguing and the male subject slapped the female. When she tried to call the police, he broke her phone. Officers conducted an investigation and the male subject was arrested for domestic battery. 

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
September 17 at 12:41 p.m., a resident in the 400 block of E. Lemon called police to report a male subject loitering at the location. The subject had already been advised of a no-trespass authorization against him. Officers arrived and located the subject inside the residence. Further investigation revealed he had been advised and knew he was not supposed to be at the location. The subject was arrested for trespassing. 

Grand Theft Auto
September 17 at 8:09 p.m., an Amazon driver left his keys inside his vehicle as he dropped off a package in the 700 block of W. Duarte. As he was dropping off the package, a suspect entered his vehicle and fled the scene. The vehicle was then entered into the stolen vehicle system. This investigation is continuing. 

Weapons Offense
September 17 at 8:27 p.m., a male subject inside a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington threatened to stab a security guard with a pocket knife after being told to leave the store. Officers arrived at the location, but the suspect had already left the area and could not be located. This investigation is continuing. 

Battery
September 18 at 10:29 a.m., a customer at a restaurant in the 400 block of S. Myrtle called police to report an employee hit him. Officers responded along with paramedics. The suspect had left the scene before officers arrived. This investigation is continuing. 

Residential Burglary
September 18 at 12:18 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of W. Walnut discovered someone had forced entry into his garage and took tools and a bicycle. Officers arrived and conducted an investigation. The investigation is continuing. 

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
September 18 at 12:45 p.m., an employee of a hotel in the 700 block of W. Huntington reported a male subject inside the hotel behaving erratically. Officers responded and determined the subject was under the influence of a controlled substance. He was arrested and held for a sobering period. 

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
September 19 at 2:36 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 200 block of E. Central when he saw a vehicle stopped in the middle of a lane. He contacted the driver, who displayed signs of intoxication. Officers conducted a DUI investigation and determined the subject was driving under the influence of alcohol. The driver was arrested and held for a sobering period. 

Warrant / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Identity Theft – Suspects Arrested
September 19 at 2:47 a.m., an officer was on patrol in the 600 block of E. Foothill and observed a vehicle commit multiple traffic offences. A traffic stop was initiated and the driver was found to have a suspended license and a warrant for his arrest. The driver also admitted to being in possession of a controlled substance. The passenger consented to a search of her person and property. The driver was arrested for the warrant and was also found to be in possession of completed checks not issued to him, as well as other identity theft materials. The passenger was found to be in possession of identity theft materials and credit cards not issued to her. The passenger was also arrested for identity theft. 

Drunk in Public – Suspect Arrested
September 19 at 7:06 p.m., officers were dispatched to a family dispute in the 100 block of N. Magnolia. A subject outside the location was found to be heavily intoxicated and unable to care for himself. He did not live at the location and had arrived unannounced. He was arrested and held for a sobering period. 

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
September 19 at 8:08 p.m., a business owner in the 1800 block of S. Myrtle called police to report a subject acting strangely and refusing to leave the location. Officers arrived and contacted the subject. He was advised he could not stay at the location and a no-trespass authorization was completed. After the owner left, the subject told officers he was going to go back inside the location. He was told again by officers that he could not return to the location. At that point the subject ran to a side security door and attempted to get back inside. He was arrested and taken into custody for trespassing. 

Residential Burglary
September 19 at 8:16 p.m., a resident in the 1400 block of S. Magnolia was sitting on his couch when he heard someone breaking into his apartment through one of the windows. Two male suspects wearing all black clothing and carrying black backpacks entered. The resident grabbed a baseball bat and chased them out of the apartment. The suspects fled the location. Officers arrived and conducted an investigation. The investigation indicated that the suspects thought they were breaking into a vacant apartment. The suspects dropped items when they fled, which were collected as evidence. This investigation is continuing. 

Negligent Firearm Discharge
September 19 at 10:04 p.m., officers responded to the 200 block of W. Cypress regarding a report of shots fired in a condominium complex. The investigation determined a resident had negligently discharged his firearm while cleaning it inside his garage. Officers were able to locate the bullet impact point in a neighbor's garage door and confirmed there were no injuries as a result. 

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
September 19 at 11:05 p.m., officers were dispatched to a welfare check in the 100 block of W. Huntington. A subject was passed out in a vehicle on the side of the road. Officers arrived and determined the subject was not in need of medical care or assistance, but that his car was broken down. During a consensual search of the vehicle, drug paraphernalia was found, as well as a controlled substance. The subject was arrested. 

Battery on a Peace Officer – Suspect Arrested
September 20 at 2:22 a.m., a subject previously arrested for trespassing in the 1800 block of S. Myrtle was being released from custody and was refusing to leave the Monrovia Police Department Jail. He became argumentative and assumed a fighting stance. During the incident, the subject threw multiple punches at officers and bit one officer on the arm. He was arrested for battery and taken back into custody. 

Grand Theft Auto
September 20 at 5:25 p.m., a caller in the 400 block of E. Greystone reported that her uncle’s motorcycle had been stolen from the garage at the residence. Officers arrived and saw the lock to the garage had been cut. It had been a week or two since she had last seen the motorcycle in the garage. This investigation is continuing. 

Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
September 20 at 7:35 p.m., an officer patrolling a parking lot in the 700 block of W. Huntington saw a vehicle with no license plates. The vehicle was occupied by a female adult that was found to be on probation. Further investigation revealed she was also in possession of a controlled substance. She was arrested. 

Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspects Arrested
September 20 at 11:35 p.m., officers were dispatched to a disturbance involving a male and female near the intersection of Canyon and Greystone. Upon arrival, they stopped a vehicle matching the description given. Neither subject in the vehicle had a driver's license. The vehicle was searched and multiple controlled substances were found. The suspects were arrested. 

Brandishing a Firearm
September 21 at 1:31 p.m., multiple subjects at a memorial remembrance being held in the 700 block of E. Lemon advised police that they were approached by an adult male Hispanic subject in a black BMW with orange stripes on the side windows and on the front windshield. The subject got out of his vehicle holding a firearm with a high capacity magazine. The suspect never pointed the firearm at anyone, he just held it at his side. The suspect got back into the vehicle and drove around the park several times. Officers responded and checked the area, but were unable to locate the suspect. The investigation is continuing. 

Trespassing / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
September 22 at 8:21 p.m., a resident in the 600 block of W. Olive reported two subjects hiding in his backyard. Officers arrived and detained both subjects. One of the subjects was found to have a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested for the warrant. 

Residential Burglary
September 23 at 6:37 p.m., a resident in the 800 block of W. Duarte returned home and found the residence and garage and been burglarized. Officers arrived and learned the only loss was an unknown amount of change taken from a large water bottle. The suspect gained entry by breaking the lock on a rear window to the home. This investigation is continuing. 

Vehicle Burglary
September 23 at 9:37 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 700 block of Monterey. The victim parked her vehicle and left it. Upon her return, she saw a window had been forced down and items were stolen from inside. Officers arrived and determined the loss included change, a phone charger and a credit card. This investigation is continuing. 

Theft
September 23 at 10:14 p.m., a male subject parked his bicycle at a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington and went inside. While inside, he saw a male suspect steal his bike. The suspect was wearing a green shirt and green hat. The bike is a green Cannondale with orange graphics that was just purchased. This investigation is continuing. 

Lunch at Basin 141

Lunch today at Basin 141, at the corner of Myrtle and Lime. Got the pork belly tacos for $12, plus $2 for black beans, and a very tasty beer for $6. Very good!

- Brad Haugaard 

Virtual Craft Beer and Music Festival Oct. 17

The Monrovia Chamber & Volunteer Center of the SGV have organized a Virtual Craft Beer & Music Festival for Saturday, October 17, from 6-8 p.m. The festival will last about an hour and twenty minutes and will include a showcase of craft beers from San Gabriel Valley breweries, and entertainment by the band LA Undercover.

Tickets are $50 each and each ticket includes a cooler bag filled with an 8-pack of craft beer, souvenir koozie and other items. Local brew masters will share information about their beers and participants will enjoy music by LA Under Cover.

Guests must be 21+ to purchase a ticket, pick up the variety pack and consume alcohol. Pick up location and time will be emailed to you.

You will also be emailed a YouTube link on the week of the event to log in.

Participating breweries include Monrovia's Hop Secret, Over Town, Pacific Plate, and Wingwalker; and Nova Brewing Co. of Covina.

For details and to purchase tickets: https://is.gd/8TRjoo

- Brad Haugaard

Lentil : With Patience He'll Love You.


How is such a cute kitten still waiting for his forever home? Five-month-old Lentil is as adorable as any kitten and loves to lounge around and show off his pink toe beans. He’s also a big fan of toys and is very active. When he first came to us he was a little shy, but now he enjoys petting and being around people. Although it might take him a little time to come out of his shell around new humans, with a little patience, this guy will love you! This handsome guy is a true undiscovered gem of Pasadena Humane, so adopt him before someone else does!

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 make an appointment for a virtual adoption consultation. 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

Monrovia State of Schools Address Postponed to Oct. 21


Monrovia School District has announced that ...

As a result of the Bobcat Fire, we have needed to postpone the event. The new date of our second annual State of the Schools Address is Oct. 21, 2020.

We look forward to sharing our 2020-21 journey with you at 6:30 p.m., Oct. 21 via Facebook and YouTube!

- Brad Haugaard

New Kind of BAER in Monrovia; Helicopters Fighting Blaze on Hwy 2; Painted 'Thank You' Rocks

Fire fighting helicopter refilling with water from a pool near Sawpit Debris Basin.

City Manager Dylan Feik reports a new kind of BAER in Monrovia.

~ The Burned Area Emergency Response Team (BAER) is made up of specialists in hydrology, soil science, archeology, wildlife biology, forestry and plant biology. They'll be looking at the potential for accelerated erosion and runoff resulting from vegetation loss, as well as, identifying fire-weakened hazard trees. Throughout this period, Monrovia Canyon Park and the Hillside Wilderness Preserve will remain closed

~ The helicopters you've heard, he said, are working to secure the line between Mt. Wilson and Highway 2 (Angeles Crest Highway). "These helicopters are utilizing the helipad, located near the Sawpit Dam, since it is the closest in proximity to their drop-off destinations for the south end of the fire."

~ Residents left a Thank You sign for Feik with a dozen painted rocks. He said, "While I certainly would never do this job for praise or accolades, these heartfelt messages mean the world to me. These past two weeks have brought me closer to this community and I can already feel a deeper, more meaningful connection to all of you. I am so proud to be a Monrovian."

- Brad Haugaard

Face Masks for Band and Colorguard


As a fundraiser, the Monrovia High Marching Band and Colorguard is selling spirit green 100% cotton face masks for $6 apiece or $10 for two. Payment options: Check to MHS Band Booster Club at P.O. Box 1122, Monrovia, CA 91016; PayPal at wildcatbandboosters@gmail.com; contact Karen Schultz at 808-7455 to pay by cash.

- Brad Haugaard 

Evacuation Warning Lifted for Monrovia, Other Foothill Cities

From Monrovia Fire Department:

As of 4 p.m. today, Evacuation Warnings have been lifted in the cities of Monrovia, Bradbury, Sierra Madre, Arcadia, and Duarte. Incident Command and the representatives from each community believe that the Bobcat Fire is no longer a potential threat to life and / or property in these regions.

Please note that the lifting of an Evacuation Warning does not mean the fire is 100% contained. There will still be smoke coming from the hillside and the air quality will continue to range between moderate and unhealthy for the next few days.

In addition to the lifted Evacuation Warning, the City of Monrovia will be withdrawing from Unified Command, but will continue to assist and support in any way possible. Monrovia Fire & Rescue will be patrolling the next couple of weeks to mop up and secure the area and will be keeping an eye on the hillside.

- Brad Haugaard

Lifting Evacuation Warning Considered; Working on Opening Canyon Park, Hillside Area; Expect Uneven Air Quality

City Manager Dylan Feik reports that ...

~ While the evacuation warning remains in effect, lifting it is being considered.

~ Canyon Park and the Hillside Wilderness Preserve remain closed. Only authorized personnel will be allowed in the area. Gates will be locked and there will be no public access to these areas.

~ "While the restoration process is expected to take some time, we will be working diligently to make Canyon Park and the HWP ready for hikers, bikers and everyone in-between. Monrovia Police Department, along with the Public Works, will continue to set up barricades to ensure that only residents are driving through the area above Foothill Boulevard."

~ Expect air quality to range from moderate to unhealthy for the next few days as there are still spot fires in the burned areas.

- Brad Haugaard

4.6 Earthquake Hits Monrovia

A small earthquake hit Monrovia today at 11:38 p.m. measuring  4.6 on the Richter Scale and located about 2 miles West Southwest of South El Monte. https://is.gd/vPh3ep

- Brad Haugaard

School Board: Rename Monrovia High Weight Room to 'Fred Bowden Weight Room'? Etc.


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

~ Renaming the Monrovia High School weight room to the "Fred Bowden Weight Room."

~ A contract with Cognitive ToyBox, which provides "observation-based tools and touchscreen games" to help teachers to assess kindergarten readiness. https://is.gd/O9u0BZ

~ A contract with ModernBrain Corporation to provide speech/debate instruction for Santa Fe Computer Science Magnet School and Monrovia High School. https://is.gd/O9u0BZ

~ A collective bargaining agreement with the California School Employees Association (basically, non-teacher and non administrative employees) giving them - among other things - the same percentage salary increase or decrease as the Monrovia Teachers Association gets. https://is.gd/VPcKXX

~  An off-campus Federal work study agreement with Azusa Pacific University to provide tutors to the district. https://is.gd/eBLWlm

~ Honor Employees of the Month:  Dennis Rios, groundskeeper; Karen Go, preschool teacher; Katrina Cuasay, SELPA nurse; Shari King, senior account clerk; Chad Miller, Teacher on Special Assignment.

- Brad Haugaard

Canyon Park, Wilderness Area Closed ‘Indefinitely’, Street Fair On

City manager Dylan Feik reports:

Due to fire damage, Canyon Park and the Hillside Wilderness Preserve will be closed to the public indefinitely. Not only does the hillside exhibit dangerous conditions like falling rocks and tree branches, the City still has to perform a damage assessment and clean up the areas. Signs will be posted at the entrance of Canyon Park and along Canyon Blvd.

The Friday Night Street Fair and the closure of the 400 Block on Myrtle for outdoor dining will continue tonight after last week’s cancellation. The air quality is considered moderate as smoke is still in the air. For vulnerable populations, please take extra precautions.

- Brad Haugaard

Weekly Coronavirus Count: 730 Cases, Up 21; No New Deaths

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 9/16/2020. Changes since 9/8/2020.

City of Monrovia: 730 cases (up 21), 37 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 80 cases (up 3), no deaths
Glen Park at Monrovia: 2 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Burned and Unburned


With the air reasonably clear the difference between the burned and unburned areas can be clearly seen. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Police: Shoplifter Waves Machete; Hits Police Car, Runs, Gets Caught; Attempting to Steal from Police Car; Etc.


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


During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 351 service events, resulting in 66 investigations. 

Robbery
September 10 at 9:19 p.m., a robbery was reported at a business in the 1500 block of S. Myrtle. A male suspect entered the business and selected two bottles of wine. He appeared to be standing in line to pay for the items, but then ran out the exit doors. Once outside, he realized he was being chased by an employee. The suspect then retrieved a machete from a suitcase he was holding and waved it several times at the employee. The suspect then fled on foot. Officers arrived and checked the area, but the suspect was not located. This investigation continuing. 

Injury Traffic Collision
September 11 at 6:10 p.m., an officer responded to an injury traffic collision in a business parking lot in the 100 block of W. Foothill. A driver was backing her vehicle out of a parking stall and struck a pedestrian. Officers arrived and saw the pedestrian had sustained abrasions to his right knee and elbow. The pedestrian was treated by paramedics from the Monrovia Fire Department and transported to a local hospital for treatment. 

Hit and Run Traffic Collision
September 12 at 1:46 a.m., a vehicle traveling eastbound through the 100 block of E. Lime struck a parked police vehicle and continued driving away. Shortly after the incident, officers responded to a medical call and found the subject involved in the hit and run. The subject was incoherent and having a medical emergency. He was treated by paramedics from the Monrovia Fire Department and transported to a local hospital. 

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
September 12 at 11:15 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of Melrose reported seeing a male subject stumbling along the sidewalk who appeared to be intoxicated. Officers responded and located the subject at Primrose and Foothill. He had fallen into a bush, picked himself up and fell against a wall. Officers contacted him and found he was so intoxicated he could not care for his own safety. He was arrested for public intoxication and held for a sobering period. 

Battery
September 12 at 3:53 p.m., a battery incident was reported at a business in the 3200 block of S. Peck. The victim reported that he was shopping at a vehicle parts store when he got into an argument with another customer. The argument led to the victim getting struck by the suspect, who fled the area. Officers arrived and searched for the suspect, but could not locate him. This investigation is continuing. 

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
September 12 at 11:06 p.m., officers responded to the 400 block of W. Foothill regarding an intoxicated subject harassing customers inside a business. The subject was contacted and found to be too intoxicated to care for his own safety. He was arrested and held for a sobering period. 

Traffic Stop / Pursuit
September 13 at 2:02 a.m., an officer patrolling the area of Mountain and Central saw a vehicle fail to stop for a solid red light. A vehicle traveling north on Mountain had to swerve to avoid colliding with the suspect vehicle. The suspect vehicle failed to yield as the officer attempted a traffic stop and fled onto the 210 Freeway. California Highway Patrol officers continued pursuing the vehicle. The driver eventually pulled over and fled on foot. This investigation is continuing. 

Mail Tampering
September 13 at 6:42 a.m., officers responded to the 300 block Elfwood regarding suspects tampering with mail. A male and female were seen in a 4-door, white vehicle loitering near the mailboxes. After the subjects left, a resident found mail on the ground next to the mailboxes belonging to residents in El Monte. This investigation is continuing. 

Vehicle Burglary
September 13 at 8:22 a.m., officers responded to the report of a vehicle window smash in the 400 block of W. Duarte. A passerby saw the broken window and called police. The owner of the vehicle said he left a new stereo sitting on the seat in plain view and was going to have it installed today. While he was away from the vehicle, someone smashed the window and took the stereo. The officers saw a couple subjects sitting on a couch in a nearby parking lot. The officers contacted them and noticed the stolen stereo sitting behind the couch. This investigation is continuing. 

Injury Traffic Collision
September 13 at 11:49 p.m., a traffic collision was reported at a parking garage in the 200 block of W. Pomona. A pedestrian was walking inside the parking garage and was struck by a vehicle at slow speed. Officers arrived and determined the pedestrian had sustained minor injuries. The pedestrian was treated by paramedics from the Monrovia Fire Department. 

Commercial Burglary
September 14 at 3:07 a.m., the owner of a business in the 600 block of W. Huntington was contacted by his alarm company advising there was a window break at the location. He logged into his business cameras on his phone and saw a suspect inside stealing lottery tickets. He called police. Officers arrived at the location, but the suspect had already fled the area. This investigation is continuing. 

Theft / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
September 14 at 3:29 a.m., while officers were handling a call in the 600 block of W. Huntington, a subject waited for officers to walk away from their units. He then reached in and was going through the officer's bags attempting to take items, when another officer coming from the rear happened upon the crime in progress. The suspect was arrested. During a search incident to arrest, he was also found to be in possession of multiple controlled substances. 

Vandalism
September 16 at 12:12 a.m., a witness saw a male subject break a window in the 100 block of E. Colorado and called police. Officers responded, but the suspect had already left the area. This investigation is continuing. 

Theft
September 16 at 2:31 p.m., a business owner in the 100 block of E. Chestnut called to report that sometime during the night someone had stolen a catalytic converter from one of the vehicles parked on his property. Officers arrived and conducted an investigation. This investigation is continuing. 

Theft
September 16 at 3:13 p.m., a theft was reported at a business in the 2600 block of California. A large shipment of E Cigarettes had been set outside the business and was waiting for pickup by a customer, but someone else arrived and took the boxes. Officers arrived and collected video surveillance showing a suspect loading the boxes into his vehicle. This investigation is continuing. 

Burglary
September 16 at 6:09 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 1600 block of S. Mountain. The victim parked his vehicle at 8:30 a.m. that morning and left his vehicle. When he returned at 6:00 p.m., he noticed his trunk had been opened. The door locks had been tampered with and a duffel bag containing baseball equipment had been stolen. This investigation is continuing. 

Lunch at Nano Cafe

Lunch at Nano Cafe, on the north side of Duarte Road just east of Mayflower. The restaurant has lots of shaded outdoor seating. Got the Reuben Sandwich with coleslaw for $12.99 and an iced tea for $2.99. Enjoyed it a lot. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Free Flu Shots at Monrovia Church on Oct. 3


First Evangelical Church, Arcadia - which, despite its name, is in Monrovia - will provide free flu shots on Oct. 3. Details: https://is.gd/8UMmTb


- Brad Haugaard

Neighbors Express Thanks to Firefighters, Police

As you might expect, the neighborhoods of North Canyon Blvd, Ridgeside Dr, and Oakglade Dr., all at the very top of Monrovia, are mighty grateful. The residents expressed their gratitude with these signs, collected into a collage by Scott Morgan, who lives on North Canyon. (Thanks Scott!)

- Brad Haugaard

Mopping Up the Fire - You May See Spots of Smoke or Fire - Not to Worry

City Manager Dylan Feik reports that some firefighters are remaining on the scene to perform mop up operations. "Small pockets of fuel remain in the burn area that will periodically burn out. As these areas burn out, we would like to assure residents that crews are nearby monitoring the situation. Residents can expect to see pockets of smoke from Monrovia Canyon Park during the day and possible small flames at night. Again, these flare ups are in the burn areas and are carefully watched. Throughout the week, the fire line above the Clamshell Truck Trail and along the Spanish Canyon ridge will also be patrolled and monitored. 

"Due to the hot spots that remain in the foothills, the Evacuation Warning remains in effect for residents of Monrovia."

- Brad Haugaard

No School - Virtual or Otherwise - For Rest of This Week - Bad Air

School's out for the rest of the week for Monrovia School District. Bad air. Not even virtual learning from home.

School Superintendent Dr. Katherine Thorossian wrote to parents that, "Given the perilous air quality, we are dismissing students from school through the end of this week. We understand the burden placed upon families during these continued crises and hope that this offers some level of relief.

"To support the health and well-being of our staff members during this time of crisis, we are closing all our facilities through Friday, Sept. 18, and asking all staff members to stay home. Unfortunately, that means that we will not be distributing meals on Friday, as originally scheduled. We apologize for this disruption in service."

Why no distance learning?

School Board President Rob Hammond writes that, " It is the environment the students are learning in. If a classroom were full of smoke and unhealthy to breath in we would not want a student in that environment.  Now the student's home is their classroom.  If the air is not healthy it can cause many disruptions to learning. Frequent headaches, watery eyes,  and a host of respiratory problems all contribute a less than desirable environment whether it is virtual (at home) or on campus. Student safety and welfare will always be our guiding principle.

- Brad Haugaard

Fire Crews Monitoring Hills, City Declares Smoke a Threat

Fire crews will continue to operate on the ridge above Spanish Canyon to ensure that the fire remains contained in the canyon and there are no spot fires, and there will be crews in Monrovia Canyon Park where there are small pockets of brush that may need extra attention, according to City Manager Dylan Feik.

He added, "We do not predict a large amount of fire activities in Monrovia today, however residents may see smoke coming from Monrovia Canyon Park and Spanish Canyon as crews mop up the area."

Also, Monrovia has declared smoke as a dangerous threat, especially for those with preexisting conditions such as chronic heart and lung disease (i.e. asthma, emphysema and COPD).

The city has attempted to purchase air purifiers to loan out to vulnerable people, but they are out of stock and the city has been unable to acquire them. Feik said, "We encourage those who have air conditioning to turn them on and keep windows closed. It is also recommended, for the most vulnerable population, to wear masks indoors."

- Brad Haugaard

Candle of Hope Event Thursday, 7 p.m.



Planned Power Outages Postponed

Power outages planned for this week have been postponed. City Manager Dylan Feik reports that city staff “has coordinated with Southern California Edison (SCE) and outages planned for Wednesday, September 16, will be postponed to a later date. We will continue to coordinate with SCE to postpone the outages planned for Thursday and Friday.”

- Brad Haugaard

Spanish Canyon Controlled Burn Should End Tonight

Forest Service photo.

Angeles National Forest posted this on Facebook:

The strategic firing operation from Trask Camp to Spanish Canyon is almost complete.  Crews will finish the operation by this evening.  This will reinforce an existing handline further protecting the foothill communities.

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia State of the Schools Address Oct. 7

- Brad Haugaard

Spanish Canyon Controlled-Burn Working Well; Bad Liars

I'm guessing, but I'd say those green lines are fire breaks.

City Manager Dylan Feik reports that much of the action today is in saving Mt. Wilson, but in Monrovia, he said, fire crews will continue to control-burn Spanish Canyon. "The team made great progress last night and they will continue in their efforts today," he said.

Feik added that you'll notice an increase in smoke, and if you live around Norumbega you'll see a heavy presence of fire crews there to support the Spanish Canyon operation.

Feik said that at the "Resident Only" roadblock, drivers are being stopped and asked where they live. "I live right there on that corner," was the most common response," one officer said. When the officer asked the name of the street, people just turned around and left.

- Brad Haugaard

Fire Advances to South

These two screenshots were taken yesterday (Sept. 14), and today (Sept. 15). They show how the fire has advanced to the south towards Norumbega and Bradbury, the result of the controlled burn in Spanish Canyon.

- Brad Haugaard 


Fire Moving South; Firefighters Aim to Protect Communities

The Bobcat Fire is coming down Spanish Canyon.

From City Manager Dylan Feik: "With the fire slowly burning down Spanish Canyon towards the Monrovia Canyon Park, the priority will remain to protect the communities south of the fire by continuing strategic firing operations and utilizing fixed wing aircraft. The Spanish Canyon area is thick with heavy brush, tall trees and is located in an area where burning is visible. To combat the fire, dozer lines and retardant were put into place and strike teams are assigned to the ridge line to monitor the fire as it slowly burns downhill. As fire crews are working at the very top of the Spanish Canyon, residents will see an increase in flames, smoke and fire activities.

- Brad Haugaard

Sally: First Place In Loving and Sweet Category


Sally has been described by her foster parent as one of the most loving and sweet dogs you will ever meet. This two-year-old dog is young and likes to play with toys, but most of the time she's very calm and just wants to snuggle up with her head in your lap. She's very well-behaved, does great on walks and in the car, and is even great with kids. Sally has been a wonderful companion and work-from-home buddy for her foster parent during quarantine, and is ready to bring that same energy to a forever home!

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 make an appointment for a virtual adoption consultation. 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

Bobcat Slowly Coming Down Spanish Canyon

The fire is slowly coming down Spanish Canyon, underlined in red here. Spanish Canyon empties into the Sawpit Debris Basin at the gate to Canyon Park.

City Manager Dylan Feik Reports:

Along the eastern edge of the Bobcat Fire, there is an active fire pushing up and over the ridgeline near the northeastern corner of Spanish Canyon. As the fire begins to burn, it will back down the canyon in a slow-backing position, similar to what was seen in Monrovia Canyon Park earlier this week. The fire is moving from the eastern ridge of Spanish Canyon and down into the canyon towards the helipad. 

Throughout the day, the Incident Command Team has made the decision to bring in extra aircraft to combat the fire and lay fire retardant along dozer lines surrounding Spanish Canyon. In addition to the aircraft, residents of Monrovia, Duarte and Bradbury will see an increase in smoke, flames and firefighting activities during this time. Please know, the fire is beginning at a point high up the mountain but will be backing downward slowly and in a controlled manner. As we move into the evening, the fire will get closer to the foothill communities. 

- Brad Haugaard

You Can Water Your Lawns Now!

Take a shower, run your sprinklers, wash your clothes. The need for water conservation for fire fighting is over, according to City Manager Dylan Feik.

But... he adds, “We will continue keeping an eye on water supply, quantity and pressure as well.”

- Brad Haugaard 

'Great News,' Firefighters Now Cleaning Up Spot Fires, Checking for Flare-Ups


 City Manager Dylan Feik shared the "great news" that "firefighters are working in the hills to clean up fires, suppress any remaining flames and watch for flares and startups until the hot areas begin to cool."

However, he added, "flares may occur as the hills are still smoking and embers could ignite residual fires. Call 9-1-1 if you see a new fire ignite."

"The evacuation warning remains in effect and residents should remain prepared for evacuation if unexpected weather and fire conditions require."

- Brad Haugaard

Canyon Park and Camp Trask - Brush Burned But Buildings Safe

Meeting Room in Canyon Park.

Road to top of park, and right fork to Camp Trask.

Top of the park.

Camp Trask.

City Manager Dylan Feik reports that firefighters kept the structures in Canyon Park undamaged even if the brush around the buildings is burned out.

He added: "When the Incident Command Team was discussing fire engagement strategies, the City of Monrovia made it clear that Monrovia Canyon Park and the Hillside Wilderness Preserve are community gems and should be protected. We cannot express enough our deep appreciation to the many agencies and crews who fought tirelessly to preserve our Park. Though work is not complete and fire remains in the City, it is a comfort to see progress has been made, fire lines are being held and resources are focusing on the fire area near the Santa Anita Wash in Arcadia. Please remember, conditions may change and fire can always change direction."

- Brad Haugaard

Flame Broiler and Fellowship Monrovia Provide Free Meals for Monrovia Schools Families

Monrovia School Board President Rob Hammond reports that last Friday, almost 500 meals were distributed by Flame Broiler and Fellowship Monrovia to families with children in the district.

A letter from the district says, "We are so grateful for their generosity, as well as the generosity of Fellowship Monrovia.  When we were forced to close our doors, they opened theirs."

The letter adds that, "Tomorrow and Wednesday we will distribute two and three days worth of grab-and-go meals from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. at Plymouth Elementary School and Santa Fe Computer Science Magnet School."

Also, Sept. 14-18, any order at Flame Broiler will be half off for MUSD families, Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. at the Monrovia location: 446 W. Huntington Dr. #436.  Phone orders will be accepted: (626) 358-8318. Use the code word "hope."

- Brad Haugaard

North Arcadia Ordered Evacuated

The City of Arcadia is ordering all residents north of Elkins Ave. and east of Santa Anita Ave. to evacuate due to dangerous wildfire conditions. A Red Cross Evacuation Center has been established at Santa Anita Race Track. To follow the Arcadia part of the fire, see this website:  ArcadiaCA.gov/Bobcat

- Brad Haugaard

Canyon Park and Trask Still Standing; Defensive Lines Hold; Fire Moves West; Keep Conserving Water


City Manager Dylan Feik reports ...

- Canyon Park facilities (ranger station, cabins, and the Nature Center) are still standing. Trask Boy Scout Camp is also still standing.

- The fire has pushed into the Santa Anita Wash. It is now positioned in a drainage area below Chantry Flats and presents a threat to not only Monrovia, but to Arcadia and Sierra Madre.

- Today's priorities on the south end of the fire are to  prepare defensive lines near the Santa Anita Wash and maintain and reinforce the southern edge in Monrovia, including Canyon Park. This line is holding well, including throughout the night, and Incident Command is maintaining those lines. 

- Lower Clamshell Trail served as a fire break and access road for hot shot crews working on those portions of fire. The fire never reached the trail – which was graded – but burn spots did come very close and portions of the Hillside Wilderness Preserve did burn.

- The city decided 5 or 6 homes at the top of Cloverleaf Drive needed to be evacuated, but when city officials attempted to contact the people, they found the residents had already left.

-  Please continue to conserve water, avoid driving or visiting areas near the active fires or damaged areas, and don't fly drones in the area - it is illegal.

- Brad Haugaard

Use a Drone, Get Arrested; Water Conservation Worked

City Manager Dylan Feik reports that police received two reports of illegal drone activity in the fire area. One person was caught but the other was not. He notes that "drones would 100% ground aerial firefighting operations. Individuals who interfere with wildfire suppression efforts may be subject to civil penalties and criminal prosecution."

Also, he thanked Monrovians for saving water. "Throughout the day, from the time we issued the Emergency Alert to conserve water, Emerson and Canyon water tanks never dropped below 90% capacity….what a miracle! Your efforts helped us ensure that water quantity, supply and pressure never became an issue for our firefighters."

- Brad Haugaard