School District Lobby Named After Mimi Mency


Community activist and former Monrovia Unified Board Member Mimi Mency was honored during a dedication ceremony on June 29, when the Monrovia Unified Board of Education officially named the District Office Lobby in her memory.

Mency, who was the first African-American to hold a seat on the Board of Education, died in 2011 at the age of 74.

“We are honored to hold this ceremony, celebrating the life of Mimi Mency and the heroic efforts she made here in Monrovia and in our schools,” Board President Maritza Travanti said. “Naming the District Office Lobby in her name is a way to recognize the positive impact she had at Monrovia Unified and the role she played in ensuring all of our students had access to the tools and resources they needed to be successful.”

The Board, alongside Superintendent Dr. Katherine Thorossian, administrators, and Mency’s family and friends, remembered Mency during the ceremony as a strong advocate of having love and respect for others.

“Mimi Mency was a very significant person in the Monrovia community,” Board Member Rob Hammond said. “She was a force in our town for good and was always willing to step up to have important dialogue. As a community, we benefit today from those conversations 50 years ago. This dedication will enlighten future generations as they come in and ask the important question of who Mimi Mency was. We will get to tell the story all over again about a very important person in our community.”

Joined by Travanti, Hammond and Thorossian, Sheri Parent – the daughter of Mimi Mency – thanked those in attendance while recounting her mother’s life, as well the positive impact Mency had on the Monrovia community in her role as a civil rights leader.

“I have always lived my life in the same manner my mother did and that is by loving and respecting our neighbors” Parent said. “Thank you to the Board of Education and the District for honoring my mother, I am very proud.”

Mency served on the Board of Education from 1972 to 1984, leading the Board as president twice during her term. During her time on the Board, Mency was instrumental in the desegregation of Monrovia schools and led the effort in establishing Monrovia High School’s Black Student Union, a club that is still running strong today.

“Monrovia Unified has always been made up of individuals who are passionate about ensuring a quality education for all of our students,” Thorossian said. “Mimi Mency’s leadership is still felt today, and her activism and role in our school district and lives of our students will never be forgotten.”

Source: Monrovia Schools press release

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Mimi’s

Dinner at Mimi’s at the corner of Huntington and Mayflower. Got the meatloaf for $15.49 and an iced tea for $3.29. Very nice service. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia High Track Student Places Second in State, Sets School Record


Monrovia High School's Madeline Conte placed second in the California State Track and Field meet on June 26, the school district reports. She competed in the Women's Varsity 300 meter hurdles and scored a personal best and school record time of 43.53 seconds!

- Brad Haugaard

Vacation Bible School at Calvary Chapel Monrovia July 21-23


For more information and registration: https://is.gd/p4YYm7

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovian Joseph Callahan Shares His 'War Story' on CBS Report

On CBS LA Monrovia Navy veteran Joseph Callahan shares his experiences in a new book, '1972: My War Story.' Proceeds are being donated to the Veterans Resource Center at the Monrovia Public Library. Veterans' Voices: Joseph Callahan

- Brad Haugaard

Monthly - Maybe - Karaoke at Paragon on Myrtle

"The First (Hopefully) Monthly Karaoke Party" will be held by Karaoke San Gabriel Valley Meet-Up group on Saturday, July 24, from 6-9 p.m. in the Community Room of the Paragon at Old Town (700 S Myrtle). There will be  a professional Karaoke DJ. Details: https://is.gd/VcHLIE

- Brad Haugaard

Image by Pexels from Pixabay


If You Have Patience Melek Will Come Out of Her Shell for You

Melek is three months old and super cute! She can be shy at first, but with time (and treats) she warms up to people. And once she trusts you, she loves getting attention and pets. Melek would do best with an adopter who can give her lots of playtime and socialization. If you have the patience to let Melek go at her own pace and come out of her shell slowly, you’d be the purrfect fit for her.

The adoption fee for cats is $100. 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 and schedule an adoption appointment at pasadenahumane.org. Adoptions are by appointment only, and new adoption appointments are available every Sunday at 5:00 p.m. for the following week.

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

- Brad Haugaard

New Monrovia Schools Superintendent Talks About Challenges Ahead

Monrovia Unified School District incoming superintendent, Dr. Ryan Smith, discusses the  challenges of assuming the top administrative post in the district on the Internet radio program, California School News Radio. https://is.gd/FMz8Co

- Brad Haugaard

A Moment in Monrovia History: First National Bank in 1895

First National Bank at 601 S. Myrtle c. 1895. See full details here. From the Myron Hotchkiss collection.

For more historic photos and papers, see the Monrovia Historical Society’s complete Legacy Project collection here. Learn more about the Monrovia Historical Society here.

- Brad Haugaard

Athens Wants 4.61% Rate Hike; Library Fountain Being Fixed; Hillside Hours


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

~ Athens Services is requesting a 4.61% rate increase for both commercial and residential trash collection. The city's agreement with Athens allows solid waste rates to be adjusted based on the Consumer Price Index plus 1%. A CPI of 3.61% plus 1% makes 4.61%. City staff is reviewing this request.

~ The fountain at Library Park is broken. A pump failed and is on order. The city estimates it will be out of service for the next three weeks.

~ For safety during the Fourth of July weekend the Hillside Wilderness Preserve will have reduced hours.

  • Saturday, July 3, 6 a.m. - 2 p.m.
  • Sunday, July 4, 6 a.m. - 2 p.m.
  • Monday, July 5, 6 a.m. - 2 p.m.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police Department Honors Officers and Staff


On Thursday, June 17, the Monrovia Police Department honored these officers and staff. "If you happen to see any of our award winning officers around town we are sure they would appreciate it if you congratulate them!"


2019 Awards

Distinguished Service Medal
Agent Juan Huerta
Agent Cody Wilkins
Detective Damien Bartholomy
Senior Officer Seth Hermes
Senior Officer (Ret.) John Jefferson

Life Saving Award
Sergeant Gerald DeHart
Sergeant Yolanda Juarez
Agent Travis Ortega
Officer Joshua Granger

2020 Awards

Distinguished Service Medal

Officer Joshua Granger
Communications Operator Erin Maller

Medal of Merit

Officer Rosendo Ramos
Officer Ian Vanderburg

Weekly Coronavirus Count: Nine New Cases, No New Deaths

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 06/23/2021. Changes since 06/16/2021.

City of Monrovia: 3,202 cases (up 9), 78 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 378 cases (unchanged), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Drugs, Drunks and Violence; A Couch on Fire; Vans Stolen; Gardener Shot With BB; Etc.

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

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 327 service events, resulting in 57 investigations.

Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
June 17 at 8:27 a.m., officers were dispatched to the area of Mayflower and Huntington regarding a male subject who was smoking methamphetamine in a parking lot. Officers located the subject and determined he was in possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and issued a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Vandalism / Vehicle Burglary / Stalking
June 17 at 6:32 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 800 block of W. Duarte regarding a felony vandalism. The victim's vehicle had been vandalized by her ex-boyfriend. The interior seats and tires had been slashed. The suspect fled the scene prior to officers arriving. During the investigation, the victim reported that the suspect had appeared at her work numerous times and had sent her numerous text messages threatening her and her son. The victim fears for her life and that of her son. A wanted person entry was made into the law enforcement system for the suspect. The investigation is continuing.

Trespassing / Stolen Property / Identity Theft – Suspect Arrested
June 18 at 1:00 p.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 400 block of S. Myrtle regarding a known subject in the store in violation of a no-trespassing authorization. One of the officers had recently taken a report on the same subject stealing a knife from an antique store just down the street. Officers located and detained the subject about two blocks away. Officers searched the subject for the knife and, in the process, found stolen mail and a stolen wallet. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Battery / Public Intoxication / Warrant – Suspects Arrested
June 18 at 7:51 p.m., officers were dispatched to a restaurant in the 100 block of E. Lime regarding a battery in progress. Officers arrived and detained a male and female subject who were reported to be involved. An investigation revealed they had become upset when their table was given away to another patron when they left to move their vehicle. The female became upset with the staff and several customers tried to defuse the situation. The female threw a glass of water on a customer and the glass fell to the floor and broke. Another customer then slipped on the water and cut her leg on the broken glass. Paramedics responded and treated the customer for the cut. The female suspect was found to be heavily intoxicated and was arrested for public intoxication. Further investigation revealed the male with her had a warrant for his arrest. Both subjects were arrested and taken into custody.

Fighting in Public
June 18 at 10:35 p.m., a male adult reported that he had just been assaulted by another male adult at a park in the 1000 block of S. California. The two subjects were involved in an argument, the situation escalated, and the suspect struck the victim with a clenched fist and fled the area. Officers were unable to locate him. This investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
June 19 at 1:07 a.m., a female subject in the 400 block of W. Duarte called police to report she had been assaulted by her live-in boyfriend. Officers arrived and discovered the couple had been involved in an argument after the boyfriend wanted to use drugs. The boyfriend struck the victim on the face with a clenched fist before fleeing the area. The boyfriend returned to the location an hour later. Officers arrested the male subject for domestic violence and took him into custody.

Violation of Court Order / Mental Evaluation
June 19 at 7:28 a.m., an officer was flagged down in the 800 block of W. Colorado regarding a violation of a trespassing order. An investigation revealed a female subject was being hidden inside a location by the reporting party’s son, and the son had an active domestic violence restraining order preventing him from being near the female. He was arrested and taken into custody. After being housed, he complained of mental health issues and threatened to hurt himself. It was determined that he needed to speak with a mental health professional. He was transported to a local facility for treatment.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 20 at 1:14 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 1500 block of Mayflower after a resident heard a traffic collision. Upon arrival, they found two posted sign poles had been knocked down, but the driver of the vehicle had fled. Officers searched the area and located two subjects and the vehicle. A surveillance system nearby showed one of the subjects had been driving the vehicle. Further investigation revealed he had been driving under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 20 at 2:52 a.m., an officer patrolling the intersection of Peck and Live Oak observed a vehicle speeding northbound on Peck Road. A traffic stop was initiated and the driver exhibited symptoms of being under the influence. A DUI investigation was conducted and the driver was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. He was held for a sobering period.

Grand Theft
June 20 at 7:44 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 500 block of E. Lime when a resident flagged him down to report his catalytic converter had been stolen from his vehicle sometime during the night. This investigation is continuing.

Police Impound
June 20 at 2:22 p.m., a resident called to report a suspicious motorcycle in the 600 block of King. Officers responded and determined the motorcycle was displaying false plates and had stolen registration tabs. A backpack left on the motorcycle contained drug paraphernalia and a replica firearm. The motorcycle was stored for being unregistered and the property was booked. The investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence
June 20 at 5:02 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 300 block of E. Colorado regarding a report of a domestic violence incident that just occurred. The victim reported that her boyfriend had hit her and was now fleeing the area as she called police. Officers searched the area, but were unable to locate the suspect. This investigation is continuing.

Suspicious Fire
June 20 at 5:28 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 600 block of W. Huntington regarding a report of a couch on fire in an alley. Upon arrival, they located the couch that was on fire and were able to extinguish the flames. A possible suspect was identified. This investigation is continuing.

Warrant / Resisting Officers – Suspect Arrested
June 20 at 6:10 p.m., an officer was patrolling the area of Fifth and Chestnut while she searched for the suspect of a suspicious fire. She attempted to make contact with a subject who began running from her. After a foot pursuit, she was able to detain the subject without incident. An investigation revealed he had multiple warrants for his arrest. He was arrested for the warrants and taken into custody.

Grand Theft Auto / Grand Theft
June 21 at 10:30 a.m., an officer was dispatched to a business in the 1800 block of S. Mountain. Two work vans had been stolen over the weekend, and a third van that was broken down had equipment stolen from inside. Officers arrived and collected surveillance footage of the suspects. Both vehicles were entered into the stolen vehicle system. This investigation is continuing.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
June 21 at 12:12 p.m., a female subject was reported inside a dumpster area in the 200 block of S. Madison that was refusing to leave. Officers arrived and contacted the subject. An investigation revealed she had multiple warrants for her arrest. She was arrested for the warrants and taken into custody.

Assault with a Deadly Weapon
June 21 at 5:34 p.m., a gardener working in the 400 block of Linwood called police to report that a co-worker was bleeding from her arm. Officers responded and contacted the victim. The victim was loading up a lawn mower into the back of a van when she felt something pierce her arm. It appeared she had been shot with a BB or pellet gun. She was treated by paramedics and transported to a local hospital. This investigation is continuing.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
June 22 at 4:17 p.m., an officer patrolling the intersection of Mayflower and Duarte saw a vehicle commit a traffic violation. A traffic stop was initiated and investigation revealed the driver had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. He was arrested for the warrant and taken into custody.

Grand Theft
June 23 at 11:27 a.m., a gardener was working at a home in the 200 block of Valle Vista when someone stole gardening tools from the back of his truck. Officers searched the area for the suspects, but could not locate them. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
June 23 at 5:27 p.m., a resident in the 500 block of W. Colorado reported his vehicle was stolen sometime during night. He discovered the theft early in the morning, but had to go to work. He did not give anyone permission to take his vehicle. The vehicle was entered into the stolen vehicle system. This investigation is continuing.

Superintendent Thorossian Honored on Her Retirement

Superintendent Dr. Katherine Thorossian was recognized on her retirement by Monrovia Unified's Board of Education and representatives from local elected officials, thanking her for her dedication to students and the District.

- Brad Haugaard 

Construction Begins on Hotel at Myrtle and Huntington


Construction has begun on a 109-room, five-story, TownePlace Suites Hotel by Marriott at the southwest corner of West Huntington Drive and South Myrtle Avenue. https://is.gd/cMnKCk

Here's what it will look like when it is done.

- Brad Haugaard 

Dinner at Gem City Grill


Dinner at Gem City Grill, on the north side of Olive just east of Myrtle. Got the chicken sandwich for $9 and a beer for the happy hour price of $5.50. The restaurant has been nicely cleaned up. Still has the pool tables in the back. Nice sandwich and the beer nice and cold. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Look Dine-In Theater to Open in July


LOOK Dine-in Theaters plans to open its Monrovia theater (the former Studio Movie Grill) in July, according to this report: https://is.gd/piRKBQ

- Brad Haugaard

Trader Joe's Founder Posthumously Releases Book on Company


Joe Coulombe, founder of Trader Joe's, based in Monrovia, has a new book out about building the company. Although Coulombe died years ago the book, which he was never sure would be published, has recently been released. https://is.gd/kMEr1F

- Brad Haugaard  

Sheriff's Department Looking for This Man In Connection With 2017 Monrovia Homicide


If you see this guy contact the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department Homicide Bureau or Monrovia Police. He is being sought in connection with an unsolved 2017 homicide in the Monrovia.

- Brad Haugaard

Float Through Life With Sweet Sally


Sweet Sally is looking for someone to float through life with her! Sally is three years old and loves her favorite people. She’s very loyal and affectionate once she gets to know you. And don’t tell her she’s too big to be a lap dog, she won’t hear of it! Sally knows her “sit” command and loves playing with her ball. She’s looking for a home where she can be the only pet and get lots of love and attention.

The adoption fee for dogs is $150. 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 and schedule an adoption appointment at pasadenahumane.org. Adoptions are by appointment only, and new adoption appointments are available every Sunday at 5:00 p.m. for the following week.

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

- Brad Haugaard

A Moment in Monrovia History: Interior of Meat Market on Myrtle in 1896

D.C. Bell's Meat Market 619 S Myrtle Ave c. 1896. See full details here. From the Myron Hotchkiss collection.

For more historic photos and papers, see the Monrovia Historical Society’s complete Legacy Project collection here. Learn more about the Monrovia Historical Society here.

- Brad Haugaard

School Board to Consider 'Wellness' Position and $54 Million Budget

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

~ Creating a new Wellness Center Specialist position for the district. This person would provide "leadership in mental health intervention to students in order to promote emotional health, student success, and retention," and "a full range of socio-emotional prevention, intervention, counseling and agency linkage to resources at the comprehensive high school and within the district."  https://is.gd/oz6NL1

~ A proposed 2021-22 budget of $55.1 million. The budget projection also shows continuing declining enrollment of 5,144 students in 2021-22, 5,064 in 2022-23, and 4,989 in 2023-24. https://is.gd/h5vKg7

- Brad Haugaard

Free Water-Saving Devices (If You Qualify); BLM Concert; Auction to Support Garden and Food Science Ed


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

~ A variety of water-saving devices are available for free from the Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District to "qualifying residents." You'll need to call 866 308-8391 to see if you qualify. Details:  https://is.gd/mvaXK6

~ This Saturday, June 19, at 3 p.m., BLM Monrovia will host a Juneteenth Celebration -  commemorating the end of slavery in the United States -  at Station Square Park.

~  Food ED, a non-profit founded by Monrovians, is hosting a Birthday Auction to support garden and food science programs in Monrovia schools and the San Gabriel Valley. https://is.gd/uN4KtX

- Brad Haugaard

Citrus College Selects Greg Schulz As New Superintendent/President

Greg Schulz, Ed.D., has been selected to serve as the eighth superintendent/president of Citrus College, which serves Monrovia. His appointment was made official during the June 15, 2021, meeting of the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees.

With more than 21 years of leadership experience in the California community colleges system, Dr. Schulz is known for being an enthusiastic and student-centered administrator. He has served as the president of Fullerton College since 2016. Prior to that, he held the same position on an interim basis for 10 months.

Dr. Schulz has also served in a variety of other educational leadership roles, including provost of North Orange Continuing Education (NOCE); dean of trades and industrial technologies at Long Beach City College; dean of instruction and student services of NOCE; interim director of fiscal affairs at North Orange County Community College District (NOCCCD); manager of administrative services at NOCE; and adjunct associate professor at California State University, Fullerton.

Dr. Schulz earned his associate degree in business administration from Fullerton College; his bachelor's degree in business administration/accounting from California State University, Fullerton; his master's degree in public administration from California State University, Long Beach; and his doctorate degree in educational leadership from the University of Southern California. He has also participated in a variety of leadership opportunities, including the Wheelhouse Institute on Leadership at the University of California, Davis; the American Association of Community Colleges Presidents Academy Summer Institute; and the Community College League of California Vineyard Symposium. In 2020, he received the Educational Leadership Award from A2MEND (African American Male Education Network and Development) for supporting the organization and championing the work of equity and inclusion for African American men at Fullerton College.

"We are excited to welcome Dr. Schulz to the college community. His extensive knowledge and experience are a great match for Citrus College," said Dr. Patricia A. Rasmussen, president of the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees. "After a nationwide search and input from every college constituent group, my fellow board members and I are confident that Dr. Schulz is the ideal person to continue Citrus College's rich history of student success, leading the institution into the future."

Due to the significance of the position, the recruitment and selection process for Citrus College's next superintendent/president was very thorough. A full-service educational consulting firm helped outline candidate requirements, set a timeline and facilitated the selection process. The process resulted in a diverse group of candidates and included virtual public forums, as well as two rounds of interviews, before Dr. Schulz was appointed to the role.

As superintendent/president, Dr. Schulz will be responsible for providing leadership and advocacy; serving as the educational leader; maintaining community, legislative and college relations; overseeing planning processes; and ensuring the fiscal integrity of the institution. As the chief executive officer of the district, he will supervise all college operations and report to the board of trustees.

"I would like to thank the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees for placing their confidence and trust in me to lead as the next superintendent/president of Citrus College," said Dr. Schulz. "Citrus College has earned an outstanding reputation for being one of the premier colleges in California, and I look forward to working closely with students, faculty, staff, administrators and the community during this exciting time."

Dr. Geraldine M. Perri, Citrus College's current superintendent/president, will retire on June 30, 2021. Dr. Schulz will begin his tenure on July 1, 2021.

Source: Citrus College press release

- Brad Haugaard

Weekly Coronavirus Count: Just Three New Cases, No New Deaths

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 06/16/2021. Changes since 06/09/2021.

City of Monrovia: 3,193 cases (up 3), 78 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 378 cases (up 2), no deaths

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Employee Punched For Two Beers; Catalytic Converter Stolen; Lots of Drugs; Bugged Pedestrian Hit By Car; Man Attacked, Car Stolen When Came to Meet Woman; And More...

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

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 366 service events, resulting in 61 investigations.

Theft – Suspect Arrested
June 10 at 11:31 p.m., officers were on patrol in the 1800 block of S. Alta Vista when they saw a male subject try to conceal himself. Officers stopped to investigate and the subject ran. The subject was detained and found to be in possession of someone else’s credit card, bank checks, and driver’s license. The victim was located in Arcadia and confirmed the items were stolen out of her vehicle. The suspect was arrested.

Violation of Court Order / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
June 11 at 12:39 a.m., officers were called to an apartment building in the 100 block of W. Olive regarding loud yelling and screaming being heard. Officers arrived and located a male and female arguing. An investigation revealed the male was wanted for a prior domestic violence incident and had a warrant for his arrest for an additional domestic violence incident in another city. The suspect was also in violation of a domestic violence restraining order. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Robbery – Suspect Arrested
June 11 at 10:13 a.m., an employee from a business in the 1500 block of S. Myrtle called to report a suspect entered the store, took two cans of beer and left without paying for the items. The employee confronted him outside the front doors and was punched in the face by the suspect. Officers arrived and detained the suspect. He admitted to stealing the items and punching the employee. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Theft
June 11 at 11:00 a.m., an employee from a business in the 3100 block of S. Peck called to report a theft of a catalytic converter. The vehicle was last used two weeks ago and the employee just noticed the theft. This investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence / Public Intoxication – Suspects Arrested
June 11 at 7:59 p.m., officers responded to the intersection of Myrtle and Pomona regarding a fight in progress. Upon arrival, they discovered the fight was over and the subjects had split up. One of the subjects was leaving in a vehicle and was detained. During the investigation, it was determined that the driver was under the influence. A second male subject was located on foot and, after a short foot chase, was detained and determined to be drunk in public. Both subjects were arrested and held for a sobering period.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 12 at 12:42 a.m., an officer was on patrol near the intersection of Myrtle and Colorado and saw a vehicle run a red light. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver displayed signs and symptoms of being under the influence of alcohol. A DUI investigation was conducted and the driver was arrested. He was held for a sobering period.

Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
June 12 at 1:49 a.m., an officer was patrolling the intersection of Central and Myrtle when he saw a vehicle commit a traffic violation. A traffic stop was conducted and further investigation revealed the driver was in possession of a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Public Intoxication / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
June 12 at 8:00 p.m., officers were called to the rear of a business in the 600 block of S. Myrtle regarding a male subject who was intoxicated. Officers arrived and contacted the subject, who was found to be unable to care for his own safety due to being intoxicated. An investigation revealed the suspect was also in possession of a controlled substance. He was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Injury Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 13 at 1:10 a.m., police received a report of a vehicle that just collided into parked vehicles near the intersection of Foothill and Mayflower. Officers arrived and found four vehicles had been side-swiped and one vehicle had been flipped onto its side. The driver was located and found to be intoxicated. Paramedics responded and transported him to a local hospital for treatment. Officers will be submitting this report to the District Attorney’s office for filing consideration.

Commercial Burglary
June 13 at 5:48 a.m., officers responded to a burglary alarm at a business in the 600 block of W. Huntington. Upon arrival, they found the front door open. They searched its interior and determined it had, in fact, been burglarized. This investigation is continuing.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
June 13 at 12:10 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 1400 block of S. Shamrock to a car dealership regarding a verbal argument between two customers. Once they arrived, the officers determined one of the subjects was under the influence of a controlled substance. An investigation revealed she was also in possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. The suspect was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Wanted Person / Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
June 13 at 5:15 p.m., officers were dispatched to the intersection of Duarte and Magnolia regarding two suspicious persons drinking on a lawn. Officers located and contacted the subjects in question. An investigation revealed one of them was wanted on a parole violation and the other was in possession of a controlled substance. They were both arrested.

Injury Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 13 at 5:39 p.m., officers responded to a solo vehicle traffic collision in the 1900 block of S. Mountain. Once on scene, they determined the driver was under the influence of a controlled substance. He was transported to the hospital for his injuries, where he provided a blood sample and was issued a citation.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
June 13 at 7:01 p.m., a subject in the 300 block of Genoa called police to report that his relative was exhibiting erratic behavior and was possibly using a controlled substance. Officers arrived and, after evaluation, determined the subject was under the influence of a controlled substance. He was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Injury Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 14 at 2:58 a.m., officers responded to the intersection of Colorado and Fifth regarding a traffic collision. Once on scene, they learned the driver, who was determined to be under the influence, was driving eastbound Colorado at a high rate of speed when he hit the dip in the road at Fifth, lost control of his vehicle, and crashed into four parked vehicles. The driver was transported to the hospital for his injuries and provided a blood sample. This case will be submitted to the District Attorney’s office for filing consideration.

Grand Theft Auto
June 14 at 8:54 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 600 block of S. Mountain. The vehicle was last seen on June 4. The vehicle was entered into the stolen vehicle system. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
June 14 at 11:09 a.m., officers responded to a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain regarding a theft that just occurred. The suspects walked out with merchandise without making any attempt to pay for the items. Officers checked the area, but the suspects had fled in a vehicle and could not be located. This investigation is continuing.

Theft
June 14 at 1:12 p.m., a theft was reported at a business parking lot in the 1600 block of S. Mountain. The victim reported that sometime between 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., someone stole the two passenger tires from her vehicle. The victim's vehicle was parked on the north side of the parking lot. This investigation is continuing.

Possible Overdose / Mental Evaluation
June 14 at 1:27 p.m., officers responded to a residence in the 600 block of Monterey regarding a possible overdose. A female subject ingested 15 Benadryl pills. An investigation revealed she was a danger to herself. She was transported to a local hospital for a mental evaluation.

Injury Traffic Collision
June 14 at 1:28 p.m., officers responded to the 200 block of E. Huntington regarding a vehicle versus pedestrian traffic collision. The pedestrian who was struck did not stay at the scene, but officers were able to locate him to obtain a statement. The subject was walking eastbound on the south sidewalk of Huntington, past Ivy. A bug flew on his face and as he was trying to swat it away, he stepped off the sidewalk and onto Huntington. A vehicle was traveling east on Huntington when the subject stepped off the curb and the vehicle struck the subject. The subject had visible abrasions to his left knee, left leg and left rib cage, but he refused medical treatment.

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
June 15 at 2:11 p.m., a subject was reported to be trespassing at a business in the 300 block of W. Foothill. The caller stated there was a male subject sleeping inside of the office. No one was supposed to be at the location. The reporting party wanted the subject arrested for trespassing. After investigation, the suspect was arrested.

Overdose
June 15 at 5:29 p.m., officers responded to a hotel in the 1100 block of E. Huntington regarding a report of an overdose. The caller advised her boyfriend had overdosed on Fentanyl. Officers found the subject unresponsive in the hotel room. Officers administered Narcan and revived the subject. The subject refused medical treatment and transport.

Vehicle Burglary
June 16 at 1:34 a.m., a window smash on a vehicle was reported at Foothill & Canyon. An officer responded and contacted the registered owner, who confirmed the vehicle had been burglarized. The suspects took an air compressor and work tools from inside. The investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
June 16 at 3:51 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle at Foothill and Mountain for having no license plates. The female driver was found to be under the influence of a controlled substance and was arrested for DUI. Further investigation revealed methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia inside the vehicle. The suspect was taken into custody and held for sobering.

Burglary
June 16 at 7:30 a.m., an employee from an elementary school in the 1300 block of Boley called police to report that several of the window screens were removed from the temporary classroom buildings and a set of walkie-talkies was stolen. Investigation continuing.

Strong-arm Robbery
June 16 at 7:05 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 1600 block of S. Mountain regarding a robbery. A male suspect took merchandise without paying for it and punched an employee while attempting to flee with the property. The suspect was last seen running east across Mountain and jumping a fence. An officer responded to the residential area and located the suspect on Three Ranch Road. The suspect was identified by store employees and was arrested.

Carjacking
June 16 at 11:30 p.m., officers responded to 300 block of W. Walnut regarding a possible carjacking. A male adult called police stating he was attacked by three suspects, one male and two females. The victim said he was talking with a female subject, who agreed to meet with him at the address. When he arrived, he was attacked by the three suspects as he exited his vehicle. The male suspect took his keys, and all three suspects left in his white Honda Accord. Monrovia Fire Department responded and treated the victim for a head injury and transported him to the hospital. The investigation continues.

Commercial Burglary
June 17 at 2:50 a.m. hours, officers responded to a burglary alarm activation at a business in the 100 block of E. Huntington. Officers discovered the key lockbox for the business had been pried open and the key was used to gain entry. Once inside, the suspects broke through the drywall into another business and attempted to disarm the alarm, but the alarm activated and the suspects fled. The investigation is continuing.

Dinner at Basin 141


Dinner at Basin 141, at the corner of Myrtle and Lime. Got the Grilled Sausage Platter for $18 and a beer for the $5 happy hour price. The sausage platter is billed as an appetizer but it filled me up just fine. Loved it. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Take a Drone's-Eye Tour of Monrovia

A drone's-eye tour of Monrovia.

- Brad Haugaard

School District Agreement With Employees

Monrovia School District has reached a tentative agreement with school employees for a 1 percent on-going salary increase retroactive to July 1, 2020, and a one-time off-schedule salary increase totaling 2 percent of salaries for the 2020-21 fiscal year only. Details: https://is.gd/ZhVeRo

- Brad Haugaard


Hot Ahead! Some Fans Available; Community Center Open for Cooling

 The National Weather Service is predicting "dangerously hot conditions," up to 109 degrees, for the San Gabriel Valley into Friday.

The Monrovia Community Center has a limited number of fans available for residents to borrow. Call 256-8246 for details.

Also, the Community Center (119 W. Palm) is a designated cooling center and will be open Tuesday, June 15, through Thursday, June 17, 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. 

- Brad Haugaard

Ron Swanson Would Like a Home With Someone Patient and Kind


Ron Swanson is five years old and looks a lot like his namesake! He can be a little choosy about who he likes, but he’s warmed up to several volunteers with the help of some delicious crunchy treats. This handsome guy would love to go home with someone who’s patient and kind, who can give him the time he needs to come out of his shell. With some crunchy treats, you too can be Ron’s best friend!

The adoption fee for cats is $100. 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 and schedule a virtual adoption appointment at pasadenahumane.org. Adoptions are by appointment only, and new adoption appointments are available every day at 5:00 p.m. for the following day.

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

- Brad Haugaard

Historical Walking Tours of Downtown Monrovia Resume

The Monrovia Historic Preservation Group is again (after 16 months) sponsoring historical walking tours of downtown Monrovia. The first one is Saturday, June 19, at 10 a.m. Meet at the southeast corner of Palm and Myrtle. The tour takes about two hours, and the cost is $5 per person. Walk is from Palm to Olive and back again. Monrovia’s history will be covered, both past and present. Masks will be optional.

- Brad Haugaard


A Moment in Monrovia History: Reworking Myrtle Avenue in 1928

Myrtle Avenue street reconstruction 1928. Photo by William Ward.  See full details here. From the William Ward collection. Identifying information from Kim Ward Anderson.

For more historic photos and papers, see the Monrovia Historical Society’s complete Legacy Project collection here. Learn more about the Monrovia Historical Society here.

- Brad Haugaard

Get Your Kicks on Route 66

This newly painted utility box, at the corner of Madison and Foothill, is designed to recall the days when Foothill was part of Route 66. Route 66 was later changed to be along Huntington Drive. 

- Brad Haugaard

Should Monrovia Stop Electing Mayor at Large? Councilman Spicer's Son Graduates Air Force Academy; Two-Year Budget; Juneteenth; Mosquito Week

At its next meeting (agenda: https://is.gd/pf2aDD) the Monrovia City Council will consider ...

~ Whether it would be a good idea for Monrovia to switch back from having a mayor elected at large to the more common method among smaller cities of having the mayor's position rotate among the members of the city council. Monrovia switched to its current system in 1976. https://is.gd/swOGJ1

~ Recognizing US Air Force Second Lieutenant Lawrence Spicer, son of City Councilman Larry Spicer. Lt. Spicer has just graduated from the US Air Force Academy. https://is.gd/dwpMeF


~  A two-year balanced budget. Detailed budget information here: https://is.gd/BDGhRP

~ Recognizing June 19 as "Juneteenth National Freedom Day," recalling the end of slavery in the United States. https://is.gd/LX7r2P

~ Declaring June 20-26 as National Mosquito Control Awareness Week. https://is.gd/ANFddV

- Brad Haugaard

Warhammer Opening Draws Big Crowd



The Warhammer crowd stretched around the block. 

The opening of the new Warhamner store on Myrtle just north of Lemon drew a crowd that stretched down Myrtle, east on Lemon to Ivy, north to Lime and around the corner at the police station. Warhammer is a game using miniature figurines. https://shrtm.nu/8oBA

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Weekly Coronavirus Count: Zero New Cases; Zero New Deaths

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 06/09/2021. Changes since 06/02/2021.

City of Monrovia: 3,190 cases (unchanged), 78 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 376 cases (unchanged), no deaths

Note: Another week or two of this kind of good news and I think I'll end this feature.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Lots and Lots of Catalytic Converter Thefts; Car Hits Motorcyclist; Thieves Take Woman's Money With Fake BoA Webpage; Etc.

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

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 337 service events, resulting in 74 investigations.

Child Endangerment – Suspect Arrested
June 3 at 3:51 p.m., a female subject called police to report she was having child custody exchange issues with her ex-boyfriend, involving their son, in the 100 block of N. Norumbega. The female subject’s father was eventually able to leave the location with the child, but the ex-boyfriend began chasing him in a vehicle. The ex-boyfriend intentionally drove his vehicle in front of the father's vehicle multiple times, in an attempt to stop the vehicle. At one point the father had to abruptly stop to avoid a collision. The father and the ex-boyfriend eventually drove to the Monrovia Police Department. After investigation was conducted, the ex-boyfriend was arrested for child endangerment.

Possession of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
June 3 at 7:59 p.m., an officer on patrol in the 500 block of Bradbury stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation. During the investigation, the officer discovered the driver was driving with a suspended license and was in possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. The suspect was arrested.

Attempt Grand Theft
June 4 at 12:27 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 500 block of W. Lime regarding an attempt grand theft. The resident heard a sawing sound outside his residence. When he went outside, he saw a subject flee the location in a blue van. He investigated further and discovered the subject had tried to remove the catalytic converter from his vehicle, but was unsuccessful. The investigation is continuing.

Attempt Burglary
June 4 at 10:00 a.m., an attempt burglary was reported at a business in the 500 block of S. Myrtle. Unknown suspects attempted to break into the business sometime overnight. An officer responded to investigate and found pry marks on the door. The suspects did not gain entry. Investigation continuing.

Grand Thefts
June 4, between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., police received three separate reports of stolen catalytic converters. The incidents occurred in the 300 block of W. Walnut, the 100 block of N. Magnolia, and the 500 block of E. Walnut. All three incidents occurred sometime overnight, and all three of the vehicles involved were Honda Accords. The investigations are continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
June 4 at 11:24 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 500 block of W. Foothill. The victim reported his silver, 1999 BMW was stolen sometime during the night. An area search was conducted, but the vehicle was not located. The investigation is continuing.

Burglary – Suspect Arrested
June 4 at 3:09 p.m., police dispatch received a call from a subject that manages a property in the 1400 block of S. Alamitas. He reported that a recently evicted tenant had returned to his apartment, broke inside and was removing items. Officers responded and contacted the suspect outside the apartment. The investigation showed the suspect forced entry into his prior residence in violation of the posted eviction order. The suspect was arrested.

Grand Theft
June 4 at 4:30 p.m., a grand theft incident was reported in the 200 block of Norumbega. A resident called to report that unknown suspects in a gray truck had just stolen landscaping tools from the back of a gardener's truck and fled the area. The investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 4 at 9:26 p.m., a caller reported he was following a possible DUI driver who had stopped in the roadway near the intersection of Myrtle and Taylor, and appeared to be passed out. An officer arrived and contacted the driver, who appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. A DUI investigation was conducted and it was determined the driver was too intoxicated to operate a motor vehicle. The driver was arrested and held for sobering.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 5 at 2:18 a.m., an officer on patrol saw a vehicle commit several traffic violations. A traffic stop was conducted near the intersection of Peck and Live Oak, and a DUI investigation was conducted. The driver was determined to be too intoxicated to operate a motor vehicle and was arrested.

Commercial Burglary
June 5 at 3:03 a.m., an employee of an alarm company called police to report they had just observed a subject break into a business in the 600 block of W. Huntington. Officers arrived, but the suspect was already gone. The front glass of the business was shattered and a large amount of merchandise was taken. Investigation continuing.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
June 5 at 3:36 a.m., an officer was driving in the area of California and Myrtle, and saw an unattended vehicle that had crashed into the rear of a parked vehicle. An area search for the driver was conducted, but no one was located. Investigation continuing.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
June 6 at 3:03 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle at Myrtle and Camino Real for a traffic offense. During the investigation, the officer determined the driver was driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. A DUI investigation was conducted and the driver was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Grand Thefts
June 6 at 3:29 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 800 block of W. Olive regarding a grand theft. A resident heard someone cutting something outside his residence. When he went outside, he saw several subjects get into a vehicle and flee the scene. The victim then realized the suspects removed his catalytic converter from his vehicle. A few minutes later, dispatch received a second call from a resident in the 500 block of W. Lemon, where suspects had removed the catalytic converter from a vehicle, but the suspects left it behind when the resident came outside. Officers searched the area, but were unable to locate the suspects. These investigations are continuing.

Burglary
June 6 at 8:32 a.m., the owner of a construction company in the 200 block of W. Duarte received a call from his alarm company regarding an alarm activation. The owner drove to the business and discovered someone had forced entry into the building. He called the police and officers responded. When they arrived, they found the owner already inside the business. Cash had been stolen from the business. This investigation is continuing.

Medical Assist / Overdose
June 6 at 4:04 p.m., a male subject was reported to be having a seizure at a grocery store in the 300 block of W. Huntington. Officers responded and found the subject unresponsive. The subject was determined to have actually overdosed on narcotics and two doses of Narcan were administered, which revived him. Paramedics transported him to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
June 7 at 2:24 a.m., officers responded to 700 block of W. Duarte regarding a traffic collision. A vehicle crashed into the rear end of a parked vehicle. Witnesses said a male driver and female passenger fled on foot. While officers were at the scene, they responded to an apartment complex in the 500 block of W. Duarte regarding an intoxicated female. Officers arrested her for being drunk in public. A short time later, the boyfriend of the intoxicated female contacted El Monte Police Department to report his vehicle, the one involved in the collision, stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
June 7 at 10:52 a.m., an officer responded to a residence in the 1400 block of Alamitas regarding a male subject who was recently evicted from the property that was back inside the house sleeping. Officers contacted the subject and he was arrested without incident.

Theft
June 7 at 2:12 p.m., a theft of a bicycle was reported in the 800 block of W. Duarte. The reporting party stated that sometime within the past week, someone stole his bicycle, which was locked in the bike rack. The lock was broken. Investigation continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
June 7 at 2:37 p.m., officers responded to the 300 block of W. Huntington regarding a traffic collision. A driver of a vehicle was traveling eastbound on Huntington, approaching Magnolia, when she made an unsafe lane change and sideswiped a motorcycle, causing the motorcycle to go down. The motorcyclist had complaint of pain to his right leg, but refused medical attention. The driver of the vehicle was issued a citation for the unsafe lane change.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
June 7 at 5:02 p.m., an officer responded to a business in the 300 block of W. Huntington regarding a female suspect that stole merchandise. This same suspect shoplifted from the location a few days prior, as well. She was arrested and a no trespass order was also issued.

Grand Theft Auto – Vehicle Recovered
June 7 at 9:47 p.m., officers responded to the 500 block of Terrado regarding a male subject riding a motorcycle and playing loud music. The officer located the motorcycle on Royal Oaks and conducted a traffic stop. A check on the license plate revealed the motorcycle was reported stolen by the Los Angeles Police Department. The subject riding the motorcycle was listed as the suspect. Further investigation revealed the subject’s girlfriend reported the motorcycle stolen after they got into an argument. The motorcycle was taken out of the stolen vehicle system.

Grand Theft Auto
June 8 at 6:46 a.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 400 block of W. Maple. The victim called police to report that sometime during the night, his black, double-axle, dump trailer had been stolen. The trailer was entered into the law enforcement stolen vehicle system. The investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
June 8 at 8:11 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 600 block of E. Duarte. The victim reported that sometime during the night someone broke into his vehicle. The suspect broke the vehicle's right rear window and stole a toolbox and winch.

Fraud
June 8 at 9:53 a.m., a resident in the 900 block of Crescent called police to report that funds were taken from her bank account and transferred to an unknown account. The victim received a text message advising her to verify her account information. She clicked on the link, which sent her to a site that appeared to be Bank of America, but was actually a fraudulent site. She input all of her bank information into the website and, as a result, money was withdrawn from her account. The investigation is continuing.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
June 8 at 11:35 a.m., officers responded to a hit and run traffic collision near the intersection of Los Angeles and Ivy. The victim stated her vehicle was parked on the street. A driver who was leaving a residence reversed his vehicle and backed into her vehicle. The driver then left the location without attempting to contact anyone. Investigation continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
June 8 at 2:01 p.m., a traffic collision was reported near the intersection of Encinitas and Palm. A driver was parked along the north curb of Palm, just east of Encinitas. A second driver was making a left turn into the mail drop-off driveway. As the driver was making the left turn into the driveway, the driver parked along the curb pulled away from the curb and they collided. One of the drivers had complaint of pain to his lower back and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Vandalism
June 8 at 11:11 p.m., a vandalism incident was reported in the 800 block of W. Walnut. Officers were at the residence earlier due to the resident arguing with her boyfriend. The boyfriend left the residence at that time. A short time later, the resident walked out to her vehicle and saw it was vandalized with some type of etching tool. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
June 9 at 2:52 a.m., officers responded to the 1700 block of Alamitas regarding a theft of a catalytic converter. The victim said he walked outside his residence and saw three male suspects removing his catalytic converter. The suspects fled on foot to a newer red van and fled the location. An area search was conducted, but officers were unable to locate the van. The investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary
June 9 at 7:15 a.m., an employee from a business in the 200 block of W. Duarte called police to report the business was broken into and items were missing. A window on the front of the business had been shattered and various items were taken. Officers responded and collected evidence at the scene. Investigation continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
June 9 at 11:02 a.m., a caller reported a traffic collision at the intersection of Mountain and Royal Oaks. Officers arrived and checked on the well-being of the occupants. One of the drivers had minor injuries and was transported to the hospital for treatment. A police report was taken and the driver at fault was issued a citation.

Monrovia High Schools Celebrate Graduates

Monrovia High and Canyon Oaks graduates.

Nearly 430 graduates from Monrovia Unified School District cheered as they walked across the graduation stage to receive their diplomas during in-person and drive-thru commencement ceremonies, held June 8 and 9.

Canyon Oaks High School and Mountain Park School celebrated the success of 45 graduates on June 8 during a drive-thru ceremony, where administrators and teachers delivered emotional speeches that detailed each student’s hardships and successes that led to graduation day.

“We are incredibly proud of the Class of 2021 and are thrilled to have celebrated their achievements in-person, acknowledging their dedication during a year that challenged us all,” Board President Maritza Travanti said. “On behalf of the Board of Education, we wish all of the graduates continued success as they go on to college and career.”

During the Canyon Oaks and Mountain Park graduation, students received thousands of dollars in scholarships from local organizations, including Rotary, Kiwanis, Monrovia Reads, Citrus Bright Futures, Terrance Hall Memorial and more. Many Class of 2021 graduates from Canyon Oaks and Mountain Park will continue their education at four-year universities such as California State University, Los Angeles, Utah State University and the University of La Verne.

“Congratulations to all of our graduates, who have gone above and beyond to get to where they are today,” Director of Alternative Schools Flint Fertig said. “Our graduating Class of 2021 is made up of devoted students who have a great capacity to love and to serve, and that is our motto at Canyon Oaks and Mountain Park – to go forth and serve.”

On June 9, Wildcat Stadium roared as administrators, teachers, and families celebrated 378 seniors who persevered during an unprecedented school year.

This year, Monrovia High School honored Zoe Gathers, Charlie Heatherly, James DeLisio, Zachary Szymkowski, Haily Sarmiento, Cory Spaeth, Allen Santos, Brooke Gould, and Anthony Nava as valedictorians for receiving a cumulative unweighted GPA of 4.0 or higher.

During the ceremony, the high-achieving scholars were recognized by Principal Kirk McGinnis as he celebrated the entire graduating class for their exceptional educational journey while at Monrovia High School.

“Congratulations to the Class of 2021 – you are all exceptional and have reached this milestone in your life during a year filled with many adversities,” McGinnis said. “Your dedication to your studies is admirable and we cannot wait to see where life after high school takes you. We know that with the skills and knowledge you have gained while being at Monrovia High, there is truly nothing you cannot achieve.”

Valedictorian Heatherly, who has helped build the school’s prestigious game development team Forge Interactive and will attend USC in the fall to study game design, addressed his classmates during a heartfelt speech which recounted their time at Monrovia High and the challenges of the last year.

“I don’t talk about all of these magical moments simply to reminisce, I do it to define. They are the meaning and value of our high school experience,” Heatherly said. “This class has been made stronger because of that struggle – not in spite of it – and now, whenever you encounter those same feelings of fear and isolation in your future, know that you have a network of friends to support and care for you. We will always be connected by the moments that defined us, and I am certain that the Class of 2021 will not leave this ceremony as graduates saying goodbye; we will leave it as Wildcats greeting the future hand-in-hand.”

Monrovia Unified School District implemented health guidelines as outlined by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, such as the use of face coverings and social distancing throughout both events, to ensure the safety of its students, families, and entire school community.

“Congratulations to the Class of 2021! You have achieved this milestone under the most difficult of circumstances,” Superintendent Dr. Katherine Thorossian said. “As you commence your journey outside our school walls, continue to work hard and be nice. We are proud of your resilience and resolve; and we look forward to celebrating your future successes.”

Source: Monrovia schools press release

- Brad Haugaard




Grollnek Restarts 'Monrovia Shadow'


Stephen Grollnek, who has run for mayor of Monrovia several times, has re-started a publication he once produced, a paper called The Monrovia Shadow, containing his thoughts and criticisms. The new version is online here: https://is.gd/3l0eSl

Note: I am NOT endorsing The Shadow, I merely note its existence as an element in Monrovia life.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia High Graduation On Line Live Today at 5 p.m.

Monrovia High School's graduation ceremony will be streamed live today (June 9) at 5 p.m. here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxBBSfxT5Ek

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Los Chiles Locos



Lunch today at Los Chiles Locos, at the corner of Myrtle and Duarte Road. Got two large carnitas tacos ($2.89 each) and a Coke for $1.35. Very good. 

- Brad Haugaard

Daughter of Former Monrovia Mayor Bob Bartlett Tells Her Story of Success as Hollywood Talent Agent

Lorrie Bartlett, the daughter of former Monrovia Mayor, Bob Bartlett, has had a very successful career as a Hollywood talent agent. In this article and video she tells her story, including her experience being "fat shamed." https://is.gd/23t6GP

- Brad Haugaardd

Daisy Mae Wants to be Your Shadow


Daisy Mae is nine years old and loves to snuggle! She wants to be her favorite person’s shadow all the time. If you leave the house, she’ll give you lots of wiggly tail wags and excited little huffs when you return. Daisy Mae’s hobbies include exploring outside, playing “find the kibble”, and anything that lets her be close to her person. Daisy Mae would do best as the only pet in the home and can’t wait to bond with you!

View photos of adoptable pets and schedule a virtual adoption appointment at pasadenahumane.org. Adoptions are by appointment only, and new adoption appointments are available every day at 5:00 p.m. for the following day.

- Brad Haugaard

A Moment in Monrovia History: Colorized Photo of First National Bank on Myrtle

First National Bank on Myrtle Ave and Colorado. See full details here. From the William Ward collection. Identifying information from Kim Ward Anderson.

For more historic photos and papers, see the Monrovia Historical Society’s complete Legacy Project collection here. Learn more about the Monrovia Historical Society here.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia High Wellness Center Renamed Susan Hirsch Wellness Center


Samara Hirsch helped honor her late mother during Monrovia Unified's dedication event on June 3, during which Monrovia High School's Wellness Center was renamed in memory of Susan Hirsch. Artwork on the Wellness Center was created by MHS student Casey Clark.

Longtime Monrovia Unified educator Susan Hirsch dedicated her career to championing student wellness and equipping students with the skills and support for success.

Hirsch, who died in December 2020, worked in Monrovia Unified for more than 30 years, building a legacy of compassion and connection. On June 3, the Board of Education dedicated Monrovia High School’s Wellness Center – of which Hirsch was the architect – in her memory, renaming it the Susan Hirsch Wellness Center.

“Susan Hirsch’s compassion and understanding of what the needs of our students were, to creating partnerships with organizations to support our students, is why naming the Wellness Center after Susan Hirsch is not only the right thing to do, but also ensures that generations to come will know about Susan’s legacy and will have access to the resources they need,” Board President Maritza Travanti said. “On behalf of the Monrovia Unified Board of Education, we are forever thankful for Susan’s love and dedication to our students, families and her colleagues.”

Joined by members of the Monrovia and MHS community, Travanti, MHS Principal Kirk McGinnis, Susan’s daughter and MHS counselor Samara Hirsch, and Superintendent Dr. Katherine Thorossian delivered emotional speeches that recounted Hirsch’s time at Monrovia Unified and the impact she had on students and the entire school community.

“We are extremely grateful to have the opportunity to rename our Wellness Center in honor of Susan Hirsch,” McGinnis said. “During her time at Monrovia Unified, Susan developed relationships with students, families and staff, ensuring they had mental health support and so much more. We are forever thankful for her years of service to our community.”

During her career in Monrovia Unified, Hirsch served as a special education teacher, then as an administrator, focused on creating and leading intervention programs for at-risk students. She also developed parent education opportunities through the Adult Education program.

Drawing on her skills in working with at-risk students, Hirsch ensured the Wellness Center provided tools and resources such as counseling, tutoring, family support, and family/parent education programs in English and Spanish.

“It is only fitting that we dedicate the Wellness Center in name of Susan Hirsch, with hope that all who enter, leave with their hearts filled and their minds cleared,” Thorossian said. “That was Susan’s vision when she introduced the concept five years ago. That will be her legacy.”

Source: Monrovia Schools press release

- Brad Haugaard

Covered Drinking Fountain at Library Park Considered for Historic Status; Monrovia Today Online; Invitation to Artists; And More ...


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

~ The historic covered drinking fountain at the  southeast corner of Library Park, the Farmers Club Fountain (built and donated to the City by the Farmers Club in 1909) is being considered for historic landmark status under the City's Historic Preservation Ordinance.

~ The summer edition of Monrovia Today is now online, here: https://is.gd/aWDCby

~ Artists are invited to submit proposals for the Almera Romney Neighborhood Treasure by July 1, 2021. Over her 17 years at Huntington School Romney fought local officials to give students equal rights and transformed segregated Huntington Elementary from a under-resourced and physically unsafe school to a place where students received an excellent education. For questions contact Kerri Zessau at 932-5564 or kzessau@ci.monrovia.ca.us.

~  After 22 years of service, Foothill Unity Center Executive Director, Betty McWilliams, is retiring. She led the center during the expansion of the Food and Health Services Departments, the creation of the Workforce Development Department, and the purchase of - and relocation to - its 28,000-square-foot Monrovia center. She plans to remain involved at the center.

~ The City Council has proclaimed June as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ+) Pride Month.

~  Joseph Callahan, who volunteers at the Library, has donated all proceeds of his book, "1972: My War Story," to the Veterans Resource Center at the library. The book, released this March, highlights his service as a Navy Diver during the Vietnam era. https://is.gd/zbUYND

- Brad Haugaard