Halloween Celebrations


There was a huge crowd at Library Park (top) to celebrate Halloween and lots of activities at Calvary Chapel Monrovia’s Harvest event (bottom). 

- Brad Haugaard

Watch for Trick-or-Treaters!

Be especially careful driving on Halloween night. Arcadia Police Department has these tips:
 
Drivers
  • Slow down and watch out for more foot traffic in residential neighborhoods.
  • Take extra time looking for trick-or-treaters at intersections and entering/exiting driveways.
  • Never drive distracted or impaired.
Parents and trick-or-treaters
  • Make sure costumes fit to prevent trips and falls.
  • Decorate costumes and bags/buckets with reflective tape.
  • Have kids use flashlights or glow sticks to make it easier for drivers to see them.
  • Walk on sidewalks, when available.
  • Avoid darting into the street or crossing between parked cars.
  • Stick to familiar, well-lit routes.
  • Look both ways before crossing the street.
  • Make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.
If you are heading to a local bar, restaurant or house party and plan to drink, bring a designated sober driver with you, use a ride-hailing service, or stay the night.

- Brad Haugaard

Halloween Alternative at Calvary Chapel Tomorrow - Petting Zoo, Candy, Etc.


Tomorrow, Calvary Chapel Monrovia will hold a free Harvest event from 5:30-8:30 p.m. with candy, a petting zoo, games, food and a variety of music. The church is at the southwest corner of Myrtle and Cherry.

- Brad Haugaard 

Monroe Principal Slides Through Chocolate; Commended Students; Santa Fe Green Space in News


~ Monrovia High had three seniors recognized as Commended Students in the 2022 National Merit Scholarship Program: Matthew Hui, Andrew Smithwick, and Kristoffer Kaufmann. https://tny.im/kxcyj 

~ Superintendent Ryan Smith reports that because Monroe Elementary School raised $25,000 in its annual fundraiser, more than the $20,000 goal, that Principal Amanda Noriega slid through a slip-n-slide covered with chocolate sauce and whipped cream to celebrate her students' work. https://tny.im/kxcyj 

~ Spectrum News 1 came to Santa Fe Computer Science Magnet School to showcase the school's green outdoor spaces. Here's the report: https://tny.im/l27UA

- Brad Haugaard

Burlington Stores Donates $5,000 to Wild Rose School


Monrovia Unified School District has received a $5,000 donation from Burlington Stores through its partnership with the national non-profit organization, AdoptAClassroom.org. The donation will go toward school supplies to MUSD Wild Rose School of Creative Arts in celebration of the new Burlington store now open at 660 Huntington Dr.

Wild Rose Principal Paige Ramos said the money will be used to purchase musical sound makers and instruments for each classroom. 

"We are delighted to receive this grant from AdoptAClassroom.org in partnership with Burlington," Ramos said. "A donation like this gives us the opportunity to purchase additional supplies that we were not anticipating having this school year."

Each time Burlington opens a new store, the company celebrates by adopting and funding a local elementary school in the store's community.

- Brad Haugaard

Kiwanis Cornhole Competition Nov. 6 to Raise Funds for Student Scholarships

Kiwanis Club of Monrovia will hold a Cornhole Competition on November 6, 2 - 8 p.m. Enter as teams of two to win cash prizes, or come and just have fun. First, second, and third place teams will have a chance to win $250, $150, or $100. Event is 21+ only. All proceeds go towards scholarships for local youth. https://tny.im/oYEFj

- Brad Haugaard

Virtual Meeting to Focus on Homelessness in Monrovia

Speakers will address community and housing resources for the homeless at a Monrovia Area Partnership meeting which will be held virtually on Saturday, November 20, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.  For questions contact the MAP team at map@ci.monrovia.ca.us. Click here to register: https://tny.im/FJu20

- Brad Haugaard

City Council to Consider Honoring Educator Who Desegregated Monrovia School

Proposed art honoring Romney.

At its next meeting (agenda: https://tny.im/8UCrG) the Monrovia City Council will consider ...

~  Spending up to $15,500 in Art in Public Places funds for a Neighborhood Treasure landmark post and art piece commemorating Almera Romney. The staff report (here: https://tny.im/47rdW) says:

"Over her 17-year tenure at Huntington Elementary School as a teacher and then principal, she fought her supervisor (who was also the school superintendent), her church, and the local newspaper to draw resources and attention to give Huntington Elementary Students a good education.

"Huntington Elementary was the segregated school that children of color in Monrovia were forced to attend. From 1946 to 1963, Ms. Romney was the driving force that transformed Huntington Elementary School from an under-resourced and physically unsafe school to a place where students thrived academically and socially. She ensured students not only felt safe and valued, but no longer had castoff books and unhealthy lunches."

~ Assisting the non-profit organization, Grow Monrovia, by purchasing 48 trees at $350 per tree for the organization to plant along Foothill Boulevard. https://tny.im/XvFii

~ Modifying its cell phone tower regulations to reflect changes in technology. https://tny.im/Tica9

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Football Wins Over South Pasadena

Monrovia football triumphs over South Pasadena 56-7. Monrovia's reccord is now 10-0. https://tny.im/Km6

- Brad Haugaard

Weekly Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 33 More Cases, No More Deaths

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 10/27/2021. Changes since 10/20/2021.

City of Monrovia: 4,036 cases (up 33), 83 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 447 cases (up 1), 1 death (unchanged)

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Person Kicks Glass at Police Station; Woman Arrested for Not Using Infant Car Seats; Stealing from Vehicles; Stealing Vehicles; Domestic Violence; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for October 21-27. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 396 service events, resulting in 75 investigations.

Grand Theft Auto / Identity Theft
October 21 at 9:44 a.m., an employee from a business in the 400 block of E. Duarte called to report a rented U-Haul had not been returned. In addition, the renter used fraudulent personal identifying information to process the contractual agreement. This investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence
October 21 at 1:09 p.m., a citizen went to an urgent care in Pasadena with injuries sustained from a domestic violence incident. Officers responded and contacted the reporting party, who stated that he was assaulted by his wife at their residence the night prior. Officers attempted to contact the suspect at her home, but she was not home. This investigation is continuing.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
October 21 at 2:42 p.m., an officer was patrolling the 500 block of E. Olive when he observed a vehicle make a traffic violation. He conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle and contacted the driver. An investigation revealed he had a warrant for his arrest out of Pomona. The suspect was arrested for the warrant.

Weapon Offence / Warrant – Suspect Arrested
October 21 at 8:25 p.m., officers responded to the 500 block of Wildrose regarding a suspicious vehicle. Upon arrival, they located a subject next to the vehicle who had three throwing knives hidden in his waistband. He was arrested for the weapons offense and a warrant.

Residential Burglary
October 21 at 8:53 p.m., officers were dispatched to a residence in the 1200 block of Alta Vista regarding a burglary alarm. Officers noticed the front door was unsecured and made entry. They did not see anything that appeared disturbed on the bottom floor. They checked the second story and discovered the home office and master bedroom had been ransacked. During the investigation, they discovered that the suspect(s) gained entry to the residence through an unlocked second story window. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto Recovery
October 21 at 10:33 p.m., officers were dispatched to a motel in the 900 block of E. Huntington when a female was seen trying to break into a room. She had removed a screen on a window, but was unable to gain entry. Upon arrival, the female was sitting in a grey Honda Civic. Further investigation revealed the vehicle had been reported stolen out the city of El Monte. The vehicle was searched and revealed stolen items and possible identity theft items. The investigation is continuing.

Fire
October 22 at 12:26 a.m., officers were dispatched to a bus stop near Mountain and Huntington regarding a trash fire. Upon arrival, they discovered the fire had been extinguished by a gas station attendant. No suspect was seen. This investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence
October 22 at 2:15 a.m., a reporting party drove into the drive-thru of a business in the 200 block of W. Huntington and reported that someone had passed out in a vehicle nearby. Officers responded and found a female subject unconscious in the driver’s seat of the vehicle. The suspect was extremely intoxicated and had to be transported to a local hospital for treatment. A blood sample was collected and charges are pending.

Grand Theft Auto
October 22 at 10:15 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of E. Chestnut called to report someone stole her vehicle sometime during the night. She parked it the prior day and went inside for the night. In the morning, she returned to where her vehicle was parked and realized it was missing. The vehicle was entered into the stolen vehicle system. This investigation is continuing.

Battery
October 22 at 2:12 a.m., a female came to the lobby to report she was assaulted at a bar in the 400 block of S. Myrtle during closing. Video surveillance was collected. This investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
October 23 at 8:04 a.m., a resident in the 1300 block of S. Fifth called to report that her vehicle was broken into sometime during the night. She came out to her vehicle in the morning, saw one of the windows was shattered and items were missing. This investigation is continuing.

Sexual Assault – Suspect Arrested
October 23 at 7:32 p.m., a female came to the station to report she was inappropriately touched at a business in the 100 block of W. Foothill. An investigation was conducted and the suspect was later arrested by Monrovia PD detectives.

Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
October 23 at 8:30 p.m., a driver was traveling south in the 200 block of S. Shamrock and lost control of his vehicle before colliding into two parked vehicles. Officers spoke with the driver and he displayed symptoms of being under the influence of a controlled substance. The driver was arrested and transported to a local hospital for a blood sample collection. He was then taken into custody and held for a sobering period.

Vandalism – Suspect Arrested
October 23 at 8:32 p.m., two subjects walked up to the Monrovia Police Department lobby and tried to open the locked door. One of the subjects became upset and then kicked the glass on the door causing it to separate. Officers saw the suspect kick the door from inside the police station. The suspect then began to run from officers and was apprehended a short distance away. The suspect was arrested for vandalism.

Battery
October 24 at 12:27 a.m., officers were dispatched to a fight in the 800 block of S. Magnolia. Both subjects were involved in a verbal dispute and struck each other. Both parties desired prosecution against each other. Complaints will be filed on both suspects and submitted to the District Attorney's Office for filing consideration.

Theft
October 24 at 8:43 a.m., a victim in the 1300 block of Los Robles reported that a package of high end pet food was stolen off his porch the previous night. The victim's doorbell camera captured the theft. This investigation is continuing.

Attempt Grand Theft Auto
October 24 at 7:50 p.m., a caller in the 1400 block of S. Primrose reported that someone attempted to steal his 2003 GMC truck. The victim noticed that his truck's ignition/steering column had been damaged. This investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
October 24 at 11:24 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 300 block of W. Lemon regarding a shirtless male yelling in the alley way. They arrived and located the subject, who was intoxicated and uncooperative with officers. He was detained and it was determined he was too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Vandalism
October 25 at 8:05 a.m., a resident in the 800 block of W. Duarte walked outside her home and discovered someone had shattered the windshield on her vehicle sometime during the night. Nothing inside the vehicle was taken. This investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary
October 25 at 9:17 a.m., the manager of a business in the 1900 block of S. Myrtle arrived to work and discovered her telecommunications business had been burglarized. The male and female suspect arrived at approx. 4:00 a.m. and cut open the realtor lockbox containing the front door key. The suspects entered and removed electronic equipment. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
October 25 at 10:04 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of N. Magnolia reported his vehicle was stolen by a friend of his a week prior. He has been attempting to get his friend to return his vehicle, but he was not successful. He advised that she did not have his permission to take his vehicle. This investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
October 25 at 11:01 a.m., a caller reported a motorist struck a city light pole in the intersection of Huntington and Cypress. Officers responded along with paramedics. The driver was transported to a nearby hospital due to complaints of pain. She was also issued a citation.

Trespass
October 25 at 12:58 p.m., an employee of the Monrovia Library in the 300 block of S. Myrtle reported a male subject inside the library was causing a disturbance and refusing to leave. Officers arrived and provided a warning and notice to the subject regarding trespassing. The subject left the location.

Weapon Offence / Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
October 25 at 2:08 p.m., employees of the Monrovia Community Center in the 100 block of W. Palm reported the same male subject from the library was now causing a disturbance on their property. He was reportedly yelling and throwing rocks at the building. Officers arrived and contacted the subject, who was found to be in possession of a fixed blade knife. He was also previously warned not to trespass on the property. The subject was arrested.

Injury Traffic Collison
October 25 at 4:23 p.m., a traffic collision was reported at the intersection of Colorado and California. Officers responded and found one of the drivers was complaining of pain, so paramedics responded. The injured driver was transported to a nearby hospital for medical care. The other driver was issued a citation for causing the collision.

Commercial Burglary
October 25 at 11:10 p.m., officers were dispatched to a business in the 600 block of W. Huntington regarding a theft report. Unknown suspect(s) entered the business while the employee was throwing away trash and stole the employees backpack. This investigation is continuing.

Attempt Grand Theft
October 26 at 3:47 a.m., a caller in the 500 block of Parkrose reported that someone just attempted to steal the catalytic converter from her vehicle. Officers arrived, but the suspect had already left the area. This investigation is continuing.

Court Order Violation / Mental Evaluation
October 26 at 4:31 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of E. Lime reported a male subject was in her front yard yelling and throwing things. Officers arrived and detained the subject, who they recognized from previous contacts. The resident has a valid restraining order keeping the subject 100 yards from the property. Based on suicidal statements made by the subject, it was determined he needed to be evaluated by a mental health professional. He was transported to a local facility for treatment. The restraining order violation will be submitted to the District Attorney’s Officer for filing consideration.

Vehicle Burglary
October 26 at 7:58 a.m., a victim called to report her vehicle was broken into while parked in the 500 block of W. Duarte. Unknown suspects smashed the front passenger window and stole a backpack from the front passenger seat. This investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
October 26 at 8:54 a.m., officers responded to the 1100 block of S. Fifth regarding a residential burglary. A storage unit had been broken into and pry marks were located. It is unknown what was stolen at this time. This investigation is continuing.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered
October 21 at 9:44 a.m., an officer responded to a business in the 400 block of E. Duarte regarding a stolen U-Haul rental truck. The truck had been left on the property overnight. The truck was removed from the system as stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto / Fraud / Warrants – Suspect Arrested
October 26 at 1137 a.m., officers responded to a business in the 900 block of S. Fifth regarding an unresponsive female inside a parked vehicle. Paramedics also responded. An investigation revealed that the vehicle was reported stolen. The suspect was arrested. During the booking process, property belonging to other people was located in the suspect's belongings. She was also found to have two outstanding warrants for her arrest.

Hit and Run Traffic Collision
October 26 at 9:04 p.m., a witness reported that a U-Haul box truck had collided into a parked vehicle in the 100 block of N. Heliotrope. Officers responded, but were unable to locate the suspect. This investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence
October 26 at 9:47 p.m., officers responded to a domestic violence incident in the 400 block of S. Shamrock. The male suspect had already left the location. The victim stated she had been pushed by her boyfriend earlier in the afternoon. She had bruises on her arms, but did not desire prosecution. An emergency protective order was completed and the charges were submitted to the District Attorney’s Office for filing consideration.

Grand Theft Auto
October 27 at 5:30 a.m., an officer was dispatched to a business in the 700 block of W. Huntington regarding a vehicle that had been stolen. The victim stated he parked and secured his vehicle in the parking lot and noticed that it was no longer there. The vehicle was entered into the stolen vehicle system. This investigation is continuing.

Vandalism
October 27 at 7:30 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the 600 block of W. Chestnut regarding a vandalism investigation. The reporting party stated they heard a loud sound coming from the street. Upon going outside, they saw their neighbor’s vehicle had been vandalized. The owner of the vehicle was notified and a report was taken. This investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
October 27 at 8:40 a.m., officers were dispatched to a fight in progress in the 700 block of W. Chestnut. During the investigation, it was determined the involved parties were in a relationship and had children together. The male suspect had physically assaulted the female. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Child Endangerment – Suspect Arrested
October 27 at 12:30 p.m., a female had driven herself and two infant children to the Monrovia PD lobby without having them secured in child safety seats. She was acting unusual and displayed signs of being under the influence. An officer investigated this incident, which resulted in arresting the parent for child endangerment. The Department of Children and Family Services was notified of the incident, which resulted in them coming to the station to further investigate the incident.

Fundraiser for Bench Honoring Jules and Betty Sandford

City Council member Larry Spicer has set up a GoFundMe page to raise $3,000 to pay for a memorial bench honoring the legacy of Jules and Betty Sandford, who invested considerable time, resources, and influence in improving the lives of Monrovians and the city they loved. https://tny.im/kMRxs

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Lord Empanada

Dinner at Lord Empanada, on the east side of Myrtle just south of the freeway. Got three empanadas, beef, chicken, and spinach-cheese, for $3.50 each (they also have sandwiches) and blindly grabbed a canned drink I later figured out was a mimosa, for $10. All three empanadas were very good but my favorite was the spinach-cheese. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Reserve Detective Fred Hirigoyen Dies



Monrovia Police Department announcement:

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Reserve Detective Fred Hirigoyen. Fred passed after a valiant battle with cancer. We will truly miss Fred and his positive and caring spirit around the station. ⠀
Fred Hirigoyen was a man who spent most of his adult life as a public servant.  He served in the Army, in Europe, and retired from Pasadena PD as an Evidence Technician, a job he loved.  Fred was a superhero, not only did he have his career with Pasadena PD, but he simultaneously volunteered at the Monrovia Police Department for over 30 years as a Reserve Officer on Friday nights. He worked with several of our newer officers, mentoring them and perfecting their skills as DUI investigators. He was part of our range staff and enjoyed teaching, coaching and mentoring our officers with their firearms proficiency.  ⠀
Over the last five years, Fred began volunteering in the Detective Bureau and Evidence Room, processing evidence three days a week.  Needless to say, Fred did it all and always with a smile! We are forever grateful for the knowledge and legacy he leaves behind. He is survived by the love of his life and partner who was devoted to caring for him while he was ill.

- Brad Haugaard 

Teddy: Big, Friendly Teddy Bear


Two-year-old Teddy is a big, friendly teddy bear! At first glance, you might be drawn to Teddy because of his unique chocolate coloring. But once you meet him, you’ll also discover his happy, playful personality and fall in love even more! Teddy likes toys and treats, and acts a lot like a grown-up puppy. He would do best as the only dog in the home with an adopter who can continue his training using lots of positive reinforcement, and give him lots of love and playtime.

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 and Wednesday at 10:00 a.m.

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

- Brad Haugaard

Mary Ann Lutz on Citrus Peace Studies Program

Commentary by Mary Ann Lutz,
Monrovia representative to Citrus College Governing Board

In divided times, it's refreshing to know there is an academic program at Citrus College dedicated to building bridges and finding common ground.

Three years ago, the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office approved the Citrus College Associate of Arts in Peace Studies program. What began as a single course in spring 2016 - Humanities 123: Introduction to Peace Studies - has since grown into a discipline that prepares students for majors in peace studies, conflict resolution and international relations.

Its genesis can be traced to Dr. David Overly, an English instructor who has been with Citrus College for three decades.

On Dec. 10, 2013, five days after the death of former South African President Nelson Mandela, Dr. Overly was reading a newspaper article about Mandela's funeral and wondered what he could personally do to make an impact in the world.

He then hit upon the idea that, as a pathway to peace, he could publicize new genetic evidence suggesting that humans are all closely related to one another. His first step toward starting a peace studies program at Citrus College was the development of this introductory course.

One of the most parts of the program is that it encompasses several important fields, including humanities, biology, history, political science and sociology. Some of the required courses include Biology 145: Environmental Science; Sociology 202: Contemporary Social Problems; History 155: History of the Vietnam War; and Political Science 116: International Relations.

Peace studies, Dr. Overly said, "Helps students to develop an appreciation for diverse cultures and encourages tolerance and respect for multiple points of view, illuminating the underlying reasons for conflict in the contemporary world.

"I would like my students to understand that peace is possible," Dr. Overly added. "There are ways to solve conflicts without first resorting to violence."

The future of the program is bright. Another course - Humanities 130: Conflict Analysis and Resolution - has recently been added, and one instructor is interested in developing a course in human rights. Dr. Overly said he'd also like to bring in guest speakers and establish peace studies scholarships.

As the Monrovia area's representative on the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees, I am proud of what Citrus College's Peace Studies program has achieved. I hope even more will consider taking courses within the program or choosing it as a major.

For more information, visit https://tny.im/m8EeE

Source: Citrus College press release, photo courtesy Citrus College

- Brad Haugaard

A Moment in Monrovia History: The 1917 Seagrave Fire Engine In Its Early Days

1917 Seagrave Fire Engine postcard. 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

Halloween Alternative at Calvary Chapel


Calvary Chapel Monrovia will hold a Harvest event on October 31, 5:30-8:30 p.m. with free candy, a petting zoo, games, food and a variety of music. The church is at the southwest corner of Myrtle and Cherry.

- Brad Haugaard 

Trunk or Treat at Monrovia High Parking Lot October 30

Monrovia's Fellowship Church will host a drive-thru "Trunk-or-Treat" event for families on October 30 from 10 a.m. to noon in the Monrovia High School parking lot.

"Wear a costume, decorate your car, and join us to drive through our playful and engaging experience! You’ll get to see Fellowship staff, participate in an interactive game, and receive a treat bag to take home and enjoy."

- Brad Haugaard


People Warned Against Eating Citterio Salami, Sold at Trader Joe's

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is advising people to avoid eating Citterio brand Premium Italian-Style Salame Sticks sold at Trader Joe's - based in Monrovia. The salami has been linked to a salmonella outbreak. https://tny.im/qasEE

- Brad Haugaard

Saturday Street Dining in Old Town to End October 30; School Safety Street Improvements Near Bradoaks

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

~ Saturday night Outdoor Dining in Old Town will end on Saturday, October 30.  Based on comments from merchants in the 400 block of Myrtle Avenue, the Monrovia Old Town Advisory Board recommended ending Saturday night street closures. Outdoor dining will continue on Friday nights at part of the weekly Street Fair.

~ The contractor on the Safe Routes to School Project has completed a raised crosswalk and thermoplastic traffic markings in front of Bradoaks Elementary School to improve pedestrian safety and reduce traffic speed. To come: Solar speed feedback signs and more concrete work. Should be done by the end of November or early December.

- Brad Haugaard

New Job Opening with the City of Monrovia - Firefighter

Open position:

Firefighter, full time, $76,835 - $102,966 annually. 

Details: https://tny.im/anKoK

- Brad Haugaard


Free Compost October 23

Reservations required. For more information and to make a reservation, contact Public Works at 932-5575 or pwcomments@ci.monrovia.ca.us.

- Brad Haugaard 

Make a Difference Day October 23


Sign up here
- Brad Haugaard 

Weekly Monrovia Coronavirus Count: 30 More Cases, One More Death

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 10/20/2021. Changes since 10/13/2021.

City of Monrovia: 4,003 cases (up 30), 83 deaths up 1
Unincorporated Monrovia: 446 cases (up 1), 1 deaths (unchanged)

- Brad Haugaard

Grow Monrovia Wants Shade Trees Along West Foothill

Foothill today (above), and as envisioned by Grow Monrovia (below).

Next week the non-profit organization, Grow Monrovia, will begin a project to shade west Foothill by encouraging commercial and residential property owners along Foothill Blvd who have space in their front yards to plant a free shade tree. The organization is also looking for donations of time and money. A $100 donation sponsors a tree. Details: https://www.growmonrovia.org/shop-1.  To contact Grow Monrovia write to info@growmonrovia.org.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Roomies Arrest Each Other; Counterfeit Money; Burglary Suspect Caught on Roof; De-Bugging Socks By Burning; Too Drunk for DUI Test; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for October 14-20. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 370 service events, resulting in 72 investigations.

Battery – Suspects Arrested
October 14 at 12:05 a.m., a resident reported that his roommate just assaulted him in the 100 block of W. Central. Officers arrived and, after interviewing both parties, both claimed they were battered by the other and adamantly desired prosecution. Two private person arrests were made and both parties were arrested.

Grand Theft
October 14 at 8:08 a.m., a caller reported an unknown male subject walking into a vacant house in the 600 block of Montana. Officers arrived and checked the interior, but the subject was gone. Officers did find evidence of someone possibly living at the vacant location. The property caretaker responded and stated that property was missing from inside the location. This investigation is continuing.

Counterfeiting
October 14 at 9:29 a.m., an employee from a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington called police to report a subject passed a counterfeit $100 bill the day prior. Officers arrived and took possession of the fake bill and video surveillance. This investigation is continuing.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
October 14 at 9:46 a.m., officers were patrolling the 900 block of S. Primrose when they saw a male subject drinking from a beer can on a public sidewalk. Officers stopped the subject and further investigation revealed the suspect was also in possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and released on a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Vehicle Tampering
October 14 at 10:38 a.m., a vehicle tampering incident was reported in the 900 block of S. Primrose. Someone tried to break into the victim’s work vehicle during the night. The victim had surveillance video of a grey Honda Accord stopping near his vehicle. A male suspect then got out and entered his vehicle through an unlocked door. The victim confronted the suspect, who got back into his own vehicle and fled the area. This investigation is continuing.

Weapon Offense – Suspects Arrested
October 14 at 12:56 p.m., an officer observed a vehicle with expired registration tabs near the intersection of Primrose and White Oak. The officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but the vehicle sped away. The vehicle drove down an alley and collided into a parked vehicle. The officer detained the driver and passenger. A firearm was located inside the vehicle. They were arrested and taken into custody.

Burglary – Suspect Arrested
October 15 at 3:44 a.m., officers responded to the 1500 block of S. Myrtle regarding an alarm activation. While on scene, a suspect attempted to exit the building. He saw the officers and retreated back inside. Additional officers responded, including a Baldwin Park Police Department canine. A building search was conducted and the suspect was found on the roof. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Mental Evaluation
October 15 at 11:44 a.m., a male subject in the 100 block of E. Central called police dispatch and stated he wanted to hurt himself. Officers arrived at the location and spoke with the subject. He continued to say he wanted to hurt himself and that he needed help. Officers determined the subject needed to be evaluated by a mental health professional. He was transported to a local facility for treatment.

Arson – Suspect Arrested
October 15 at 4:01 p.m., multiple residents from the 800 block of W. Chestnut called to report a subject who lit something on fire and smoke was coming up from the object. Officers arrived and located the subject. The fire was out, but smoke was still visible. The subject lit a pair of her socks on fire because she thought bugs were in them. She was arrested and released on a citation to appear in court on the charges. The subject refused any assistance.

Injury Traffic Collision
October 15 at 5:15 p.m., a traffic collision was reported at the intersection of California and Evergreen. Three vehicles were involved and one occupant was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The driver at fault was issued a citation.

Grand Theft Auto Recovery
October 15 at 7:42 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 1800 block of S. Mayflower regarding a welfare check. While in the area, they noticed an unoccupied vehicle parked on the street. Further investigation revealed the vehicle had been reported stolen. It was recovered and taken out of the stolen vehicle system. This investigation is continuing.

Vandalism / Destruction of Jail Property – Suspect Arrested
October 15 at 10:39 p.m., officers were dispatched to the skate park in the 800 block of E. Olive regarding a male subject causing a disturbance. Upon arrival, they discovered the suspect had destroyed candles at a memorial and broke a sprinkler at the park. He was arrested and taken into custody. During the booking process, he proceeded to punch one of the scanners at the booking station, damaging the equipment. The charge of destroying jail property was added to the booking.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
October 16 at 10:54 a.m., an employee from a business in the 400 block of W. Foothill called to report a male subject was inside the store damaging property. Officers arrived and located the suspect, who they recognized from past contacts. He was acting irrational and he displayed symptoms of being under the influence of a controlled substance. He was arrested and held for a sobering period.

Residential Burglary
October 16 at 12:00 p.m., a resident from the 1000 block of Royal Oaks called police to report her home was burglarized sometime during the night. Her purse, cell phone, and car keys were missing when she woke up in the morning. She said sometime during the night, she was awakened by a noise inside her apartment. She sat up in bed and saw what she believed was a male figure. She yelled and the subject ran out of the house. This investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence
October 16 at 12:18 p.m., a resident from the 400 block of W. Walnut called to report his ex-wife showed up at his home and began yelling at him. During the argument, she punched him in the shoulder and pinched his forearm. She left prior to the police being contacted. This investigation is continuing.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
October 16 at 3:58 p.m., officers were patrolling the 1600 block of Myrtle, near Station Square Park, when an officer saw a subject smoking a glass pipe typically used to smoke methamphetamine. The subject was contacted and it was confirmed he was in possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and released on a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Weapon Offense – Suspect Arrested
October 16 at 5:03 p.m., officers were patrolling the 800 block of W. Colorado when they observed a driver make several traffic violations. The officers conducted a traffic stop and contacted the driver and passenger. The driver admitted to having a firearm in the vehicle. Officers retrieved the firearm, which was loaded. The driver was arrested and taken into custody.

Residential Burglary
October 16 at 10:18 p.m., residents in the 1200 block of S. Mayflower left their home around 7:30 p.m. and returned three hours later. Upon entering, they noticed numerous drawers were open and the home appeared to have been ransacked. Officers arrived and the investigation revealed numerous items were taken from the residence, including a safe containing a firearm. This investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
October 17 at 2:19 a.m., an officer patrolling the intersection of Myrtle and Olive noticed a vehicle stopped partially on the sidewalk. The officer approached the vehicle, which was still running, and found two occupants unresponsive. Paramedics also responded. Both occupants were extremely intoxicated. The driver was unable to perform any DUI tests and was transported to a local hospital, along with the passenger. A blood sample was drawn from the driver at the hospital.

Commercial Burglary – Suspect Arrested
October 17 at 8:29 a.m., a commercial burglary was reported at a business in the 900 block of W. Duarte. The burglary occurred sometime overnight. Cash and three tablets were taken. The victim had surveillance video of the suspect. While the officer was conducting his investigation, a second call came out reporting a subject sleeping in someone's vehicle. Officers contacted the subject and determined it was the suspect from the commercial burglary, and he still had the stolen property in his possession. Officers also located property from several nearby vehicles that were unlocked and had been ransacked by the suspect. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Annoying Phone Calls
October 17 at 11:10 a.m., a subject in the 300 block of N. Grand called police to report she has an ongoing issue with a subject who keeps harassing her, and she had just received threatening text messages from her. This investigation is continuing.

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
October 18 at 11:46 a.m., an employee from a business in the 300 block of W. Foothill called to report a subject attempting to climb the wall of a business. Officers arrived and contacted the subject, who they recognized from previous contacts. He had drug paraphernalia in plain view. He was arrested and released on a citation to appear in court on the charges.

Commercial Burglary
October 18 at 11:57 a.m., a caller reported a large amount of water coming from a business in the 900 block of W. Huntington. Officers arrived and saw that the back covered storage area of the business had a water leak. Upon further inspection, it was discovered that copper piping was stolen from the exterior of the wall. This investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft
October 19 at 10:15 a.m., a caller reported a catalytic converter was stolen from their motorhome, which had been parked at a business in the 3000 block of S. Peck. The motorhome had been parked at the location for several months. This investigation is continuing.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
October 19 at 10:30 a.m., a citizen came into the lobby to report a hit and run traffic collision that occurred in the 100 block of E. Lemon. The reporting party parked his vehicle in a nearby parking lot and went to work for the day. When he returned to his vehicle, he noticed damage that was not there before. This investigation continuing.

Vandalism
October 19 at 9:14 p.m., a resident in the 800 block of Ridgeside reported that his vehicle had been vandalized the night before. His surveillance cameras do not view the area where his vehicle was parked. This investigation is continuing.

Dinner at Mikomi Sushi

Dinner at the new Mikomi Sushi, moved to the former T Phillips site at the corner of Myrtle and Colorado. The location has been nicely redone. I got the Chicken Katsu for $16.95 and a beer for $5.95.  A very tasty and generous portion of chicken, good service, and it came with a green salad and some very nice tempura, not shown. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia High Girls Volleyball Team Raises Money for City of Hope

The Monrovia High School Girls Volleyball team raised $1,703 for the City of Hope Cancer Center with its annual Breast Cancer Fundraiser match against Arcadia on October 4. The Wildcats won. The fundraiser runs until the end of October and the team is hoping to go beyond its $2,000 goal. Here's more information on how to donate.

- Brad Haugaard 

Sate of Monrovia Schools Address November 17

Monrovia Board of Education will present its 2021-22 State of the Schools Address at the Louise K. Taylor Performing Arts Center (845 W Colorado Blvd) on Wednesday, November 17 at 6 p.m.

Highlights will include how the District navigated COVID-19 and school closures; moving from virtual learning to hybrid learning; the return to in-person instruction; how MUSD has maintained a sound budget; expansion of student support systems; and school programs such as athletics, the arts, early college and more.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Auctioneer to Put Rare Apple-1 Computer on Block; Estimated worth - $400,000-600,000

Monrovia's John Moran Auctioneers will put a rare, hand-built Apple-1 computer on the auction block on November 9. The Apple-1, which belonged to Chaffey College, is estimated to be worth $400,000-600,000. 

This year marks the 45th birthday for Apple, the world's largest technology company, currently valued in the trillion-dollar range, and it all began with two Steve's, one garage, and Apple Computer 1, more commonly referred to as Apple-1. The company was created in 1976 when electronic engineer Steve Wozniak (b. 1950) teamed up with marketing guru and industrial designer Steve Jobs (1955-2011).  

Source

Citrus College Board Member Edward Ortell Dies - Represented Part of Monrovia

Edward C. Ortell, J.D., who represented part of Monrovia on the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees, where he served for more than 50 years, passed away on Oct. 16, 2021, at the age of 82.

As a trustee, Dr. Ortell held all board offices, including more than 10 terms as board president. He also served on other boards and associations, including the California Community College Trustees Board, the California Master Plan for Education Task Force and the Los Angeles County School Trustees Association. 

A professor emeritus of business and computer technology at Pasadena City College, Dr. Ortell also authored two college textbooks on mathematics and received several National Science Foundation grants. He was also the former executive director of the Pasadena Education Association, received the CBS anchor Ralph Story Service Award, the Community College Association We Honor Ours Award and the Duarte Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Civic Service Award.

"The board extends our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Dr. Ortell," said Dr. Patricia A. Rasmussen, president of the Citrus Community College District Board of Trustees. "For more than 50 years, Dr. Ortell has advocated on behalf of all community colleges and was instrumental in helping promote significant initiatives at Citrus College. I served alongside Dr. Ortell since 2007, and I will always remember him for his passion, devotion and commitment. This loss is enormous, and we will all miss him tremendously."

Source: Citrus College press release

- Brad Haugaard

A Moment in Monrovia History: Snowy Mountains Above Monrovia in 1927

Winter in Monrovia 1927 showing the 300 block of Myrtle Avenue and snow on the mountains. 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

Monrovia Police Asking: You Know This Motorcyclist?

Monrovia PD Tweet: "The Monrovia Police Department is asking the public’s help in identifying the subject pictured here.  Over the course of many miles yesterday this subject failed to yield to an officer who attempted to pull him over for a traffic violation, choosing instead to drive recklessly through red lights and stop signs and weave in and out of traffic at speeds topping 100 mph, both on city streets and on the 210 Freeway. He is currently wanted for felony evasion and reckless driving. Anyone with information should call the Monrovia Police Department at (626) 256-8000, or may make an online report at lacrimestoppers.org."

- Brad Haugaard

Silly Girl Is Shy But Sweet ... and Totally Up For Birdwatching!


Seven-year-old Silly Girl is a little shy but very sweet! She loves being pet on her head and shoulders, and will even lay on her back and roll around when she’s relaxed. This beautiful tabby has a calm personality and would be a wonderful companion for movie marathons or lazy Sundays birdwatching through the window. Silly Girl is ready to bring lots of light and love to your home!

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 and Wednesday at 10:00 a.m.

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

- Brad Haugaard

Bridgestone Provides New Van for Boys & Girls Club


Bridgestone Retail Operations, a subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas, surprised Monrovia-area youth last Friday by unveiling a new passenger van donated to the Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills, one of 12 clubs to receive a van nationwide. The van (equipped with Bridgestone tires) will provide kids with transportation to and from their clubhouse, on field trips, college tours and other enrichment activities. The donation is part of the Bridgestone Driving Great Futures initiative, which has helped youth connect with Boys & Girls Club resources across the U.S. since 2015. Bridgestone will also maintain the vehicle.

"We are so grateful to Bridgestone and are honored to be selected as a recipient for a new passenger van to help our club youth and families overcome transportation barriers," said John Wilson, executive director of Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills.

Last year, Bridgestone raised $3.6 million for Boys & Girls Clubs of America to help Club kids and teens gain access to high-impact, out-of-school support amid the COVID-19 pandemic, including bridging technology and transportation gaps. Since 2015, Bridgestone has contributed a total of $15.3 million to Boys & Girls Clubs of Amereica.

Source: Bridgestone press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Defeats San Marino in Football

Undefeated Monrovia football adds to its triumphs with a 63 to 13 victory over San Marino. https://is.gd/Kp8cW1

- Brad Haugaardd

Monrovia Needs Substitute Teachers

The Monrovia Unified School Board has unanimously approved a resolution to increase the substitute teacher pay rate to $190 as the substitute teaching daily rate; $205 as the 60-plus cumulative days daily rate; and $220 as the long-term daily rate. This is a $50 per day increase and is in effect until the end of the 2021-2022 school year. For more information on being a substitute teacher please visit: https://is.gd/XLnpLF

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Reads Gets New Electric Van

To celebrate its acquisition of a new electric van, Monrovia Reads will hold a celebration at Library Park on Wednesday, October 27, at 4 p.m. with speakers from the City and Monrovia Reads. The van wil bring library services to local schools and community events throughout the year. It was paid for by a grant from the California State Library.

Tell City How to Spend Measure K Money; What That Helicopter's Doing; Neighborhood Watch

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

~ He will visit community groups to share an update on Measure K, the Keep Monrovia Revenues Local Sales Tax Measure, which should bring in about $10.8 million for fiscal years 2021-23. If you have thoughts on how the city should spend the money, fill out this form on the City's website: https://is.gd/doyimg

~ If you see a helicopter going back and forth overhead on Wednesday, October 20, or Thursday, October 21, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., it's SoCalGas checking for methane gas leaks in Monrovia and other local cities. Yeah, they can do it from the air.

~ If you'd like to get involved in Neighborhood Watch, the Monrovia Police Department will host a Zoom meeting on Tuesday, October 19, at 5 p.m. to introduce the program and answer questions. Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88694096685?pwd=MmhYa2UrOXdRVkRqZXErcHErNTduUT09 Meeting ID is 886 9409 6685; Passcode is 369680

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia In Better Financial Shape Than Predicted

Monrovia is in better financial shape than expected - by $2.03 million - according to a budget update (https://is.gd/rKGXlJ) that will be presented to the City Council at its next meeting (https://is.gd/w71JZL).

The staff report says:

Due to a variety of factors, the General Fund is expected to close the Fiscal Year 2020-21 significantly better than originally anticipated. When the Fiscal Year 2020-21 Budget was originally approved in August of 2020, at a critical time during the pandemic, City Council utilized a conservative budget approach to prepare the City for the uncertainty of the negative financial impacts of the pandemic, the potential for new business closures, and the impacts of stay-at-home orders. In addition to conservative budgeting, the original Fiscal Year 2020-21 Budget incorporated expenditure savings measures, such as staffing vacancies, adjustments to maintenance and operations budgets, and savings from renegotiated vendor contracts. To ensure sound financial management throughout the pandemic, staff monitors the budget regularly as the City cautiously navigates the financial impacts of the pandemic.

The General Fund’s estimated surplus of $2.03M can be attributed to higher than expected revenues, most notably sales tax, Redevelopment Residual Property Tax Revenue, and hotel tax. Additionally, staff’s diligence in managing costs has also contributed to the overall savings. The General Fund was originally expected to close the year with a deficit of $663,201.

- Brad Haugaard


Monrovia Weekly Coronavirus Count: 18 More Cases, No More Deaths

Coronavirus cases from LA Department of Public Health as of 8 p.m., 10/13/2021. Changes since 10/06/2021.

City of Monrovia: 3,973 cases (up 18), 82 deaths (unchanged)
Unincorporated Monrovia: 445 cases (up 3), 1 death (unchanged)

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Detectives Arrest Grand Theft Suspects; Women Fight in Road-Rage Incident; Sleeping Driver Hits Light Pole; License Plate Swap; and More

 [Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for October 7-13. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 422 service events, resulting in 74 investigations.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
October 7 at 7:24 a.m., a caller requested a welfare check on a female subject in the 800 block of Alta. She had told a co-worker she was punched in the face by her boyfriend. Officers arrived and talked with both parties. During the investigation, it was learned the boyfriend slapped the girlfriend, causing a small scratch. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Grand Theft – Suspect Arrested
October 7 at 1:46 p.m., detectives conducted surveillance at an address in a neighboring city in an attempt to locate two wanted burglary suspects. While at the location, the two suspects left in a vehicle. A traffic stop was conducted and one of the occupants threw a loaded handgun and drugs from the vehicle. The two individuals were positively identified as the suspects in the grand theft case. They were arrested and taken into custody.

Assault – Suspect Arrested
October 7 at 4:59 p.m., a caller reported a fight between two females in the parking lot of the business in the 600 block of W. Huntington. Witnesses intervened and one of the parties left the location. Officers learned the fight was over a road rage incident. One of the females used her car keys to hit the other female over the head, causing a large gash. The suspect later turned herself in to police and was arrested.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
October 7 at 8:24 p.m., officers responded to a family disturbance in the 1900 block of Peck. The reporting party advised the male suspect had left the area in a white SUV and appeared intoxicated. Officers located the vehicle driving erratically in the area and conducted a traffic stop. The driver was too intoxicated to operate the vehicle safely and was arrested for DUI.

Weapon Offence – Suspect Arrested
October 8 at 7:43 a.m., a caller reported that he was assaulted by a subject in the 800 block of E. Royal Oaks. Officers arrived and learned the victim had his phone knocked out of his hands by the suspect after a dispute over a parking space. The suspect then brandished a knife at the victim. The suspect was arrested.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
October 8 at 8:51 a.m., a suspicious vehicle was reported parked in the 500 block of S. Lincoln. Officers arrived and located a male subject who was sleeping in the vehicle. An investigation revealed he had multiple warrants for his arrest. He was arrested for the warrants.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
October 8 at 1:49 p.m., a caller reported that her vehicle was involved in a hit and run traffic collision in the 600 block of W. Huntington. No suspect information was obtained. This investigation is continuing.

Fraud
October 8 at 3:36 p.m., the owner of the business in the 400 block of S. Myrtle reported that someone fraudulently cashed one of his employee's paychecks. An online banking application was used. This investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
October 8 at 9:48 p.m., an officer patrolling the intersection of Mayflower and Evergreen observed a vehicle fail to stop for the stop sign. The driver also made several unsafe turning movements. The driver was stopped and the officers noticed he displayed symptoms of being under the influence. It was determined the driver was under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested for DUI and held for a sobering period.

Traffic Collision
October 9 at 1:30 a.m., officers responded to a traffic collision at the intersection of Foothill and Mayflower. A driver was traveling east on Foothill when he fell asleep behind the wheel and collided with a light pole. The driver was not injured and had not been drinking.

Mail Tampering
October 9 at 8:46 a.m., a resident in the 500 block of N. Alta Vista called to report his mailbox was tampered with and mail was missing. This investigation is continuing.

Mail Tampering
October 9 at 9:41 a.m., a resident in the 500 block of N. Alta Vista called to report her mailbox was also tampered with and mail was missing. This investigation is continuing.

Mail Tampering
October 9 at 9:50 a.m., while an officer was patrolling the 500 block of N. Alta Vista, he located an empty mail package. The address on the package was from a residence in the 500 block of N. Alta Vista. He spoke with the victim and confirmed a mail theft did occur. This investigation is continuing.

Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
October 9 at 10:22 a.m., a caller stated a male subject was urinating on the wall of a business in the 100 block of W. Foothill. Officers arrived and located the subject. He was extremely intoxicated and unable to care for himself. He was arrested and transported to the Monrovia PD Jail for booking and a sobering period.

Court Order Violation / Mental Health Evaluation – Suspect Arrested
October 10 at 12:00 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 200 block of E. Pomona regarding a subject trespassing in a rear yard. Officers arrived and found a subject who had a domestic violence court order restraining him from being at the location. They noticed the subject had open sores on his neck. Paramedics were dispatched to the location, but the subject refused to be treated. The suspect was arrested. While in custody, the subject began displaying behavior indicating he was in need of mental health treatment. He was then transported to a mental health facility to be evaluated by a professional.

Possession of Burglary Tools – Suspect Arrested
October 10 at 12:15 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 900 block of E. Royal Oaks regarding a subject causing a disturbance at the location. The subject had a dispute with a resident and refused to leave. Officers arrived and spoke with the subject. During the investigation it was discovered he was in possession of property he claimed was given to him to polish. He also had lock picking tools. The subject was arrested for possession of burglary tools and released on a citation.

Fight in Progress
October 10 at 12:54 a.m., officers responded to a fight in progress in the rear parking lot of a business in the 100 block of W. Lime Avenue. When officers arrived, they located several subjects who said they had been involved in a fight with subjects who left the area in a Grey Nissan. Additional officers searched for the vehicle, but were unable to locate it. Officers had Monrovia Fire Department respond to make sure all subjects were medically okay. All the subjects had been drinking and would not provide further information. Later the same day, two of the subjects came into the Monrovia Police Department station to provide additional details about the event and file a report. A report was taken and the investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto
October 10 at 6:17 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from a parking lot in the 3300 block of S. Peck. Surveillance footage of the theft was collected by the investigating officer. This investigation is continuing.

Stolen License Plate
October 10 at 7:03 p.m., a female subject reported that her vehicle's license plate had been stolen and replaced with another vehicle's license plate while parked in the 200 block of W. Lemon. This plate was later found to be stolen from a vehicle in Sierra Madre. It is unknown when the plates were switched, but the recovered plate was reported stolen in the early part of September. This investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
October 11 at 6:48 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 500 block of S. Myrtle when he witnessed a traffic collision in the intersection of Myrtle and Colorado. He stopped and found one of the drivers was complaining of pain, so paramedics responded. The injured driver did not want to go to a hospital. After investigation, the driver found to be at fault was issued a citation for the traffic violation.

Theft
October 11 at 7:24 a.m., a resident in the 700 block of Wildrose started his car to go to work and heard something wrong with his exhaust. He looked under his vehicle and saw someone had cut off and stolen his catalytic converter. This investigation is continuing.

Vehicle Burglary
October 11 at 7:58 a.m., a resident of an apartment complex in the 800 block of S. Myrtle walked to their vehicle, which was parked in the building's parking structure, and discovered someone had broken into it sometime during the night. Personal items had been stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Injury Traffic Collision
October 11 at 9:25 a.m., a caller reported two motorists collided into one another at the intersection of Huntington and Primrose. Officers responded and found one of the drivers was complaining of pain so paramedics also responded. The injured driver did not want to go to the hospital. The non-injured driver was found to be at fault and was issued a citation for the traffic violation.

Vehicle Burglary
October 11 at 12:53 p.m., a resident of an apartment complex in the 800 block of S. Myrtle walked to his vehicle, which was parked in the parking structure, and discovered someone had shattered one of the windows. The loss from inside the vehicle is undetermined at this time. This investigation is continuing.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
October 11 at 3:40 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 1600 block of S. Primrose when he contacted a subject who was found to have a warrant for his arrest. The subject was arrested for the warrant and taken into custody.

Trespassing – Suspect Arrested
October 11 at 6:05 p.m., a caller reported a male subject that was trespassing at a business in the 100 block of W. Palm. Officers arrived and contacted the subject. He had been advised previously about trespassing on the property and was subsequently arrested.

Court Order Violation / Mental Evaluation – Subject Evaluated
October 11 at 7:25 p.m., a caller reported that her adult son was at her residence in the 200 block of E. Lime in violation of a court order. She also said it appeared he was under the influence and possibly overdosing. Officers and paramedics responded. The subject then made suicidal statements and it was determined he needed to be evaluated by a mental health professional. He was then transported to a facility for treatment and the case was forwarded to the District Attorney’s office for filing charges.

Grand Theft
October 11 at 9:10 p.m., a witness observed a male subject underneath a vehicle using a power tool near the intersection of Mayflower and Chestnut. Officers arrived and located the vehicle, however, the suspect was gone. It was learned that the suspect had stolen the catalytic converter and was last seen driving a grey truck. This investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary
October 12 at 1:15 p.m., the manager of a coin laundry business in the 900 block of W. Duarte reported someone had burglarized the business at around 3:00 a.m. that morning when the business was closed. This investigation is continuing.

Vandalism – Suspect Arrested
October 12 at 7:20 p.m., a caller reported that a subject was vandalizing a wall in the 800 block of E. Olive. Officers arrived and detained the suspect. He was identified by a witness and admitted to the crime. He was also in possession of spray paint. The suspect was arrested.

Residential Burglary
October 12 at 10:03 p.m., a resident arrived home in the 900 block of California to find their rear sliding glass door shattered and the home ransacked. Two suspects were seen on surveillance at the front door, before they entered the backyard, at approximately 7:20 p.m. A sum of money, jewelry, and the family's passports were stolen. Investigation continuing.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
October 13 at 3:29 a.m., an officer located a vehicle stopped in the roadway, blocking traffic near the intersection of Myrtle and Foothill. The driver provided a false name to the officer. After further investigation, the driver’s identity was confirmed and she was found to have a warrant for her arrest and no driver’s license. She was arrested for the warrant and taken into custody.

Mental Evaluation – Subject Evaluated
October 13 at 12:55 p.m., several callers reported a female subject running naked in the middle of the street in the 2600 block of S. Myrtle. Officers responded, along with paramedics, and located the subject. It was determined she needed to be seen by a mental health professional. She was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Injury Traffic Collision
October 13 at 2:21 p.m., a caller reported two motorists collided into one another in the intersection of Mountain and Royal Oaks. Officers responded and found one person involved in the collision complained of pain. Paramedics responded and she was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Package Theft
October 13 at 3:09 p.m., a caller reported seeing a male subject on a bicycle stop in the 600 block of Monterey, walk onto someone's front porch and take a delivered package. The subject fled the area on his bicycle. Officers searched for the subject, but could not locate him. This investigation is continuing.

Hit & Run Traffic Collision
October 13 at 3:51 p.m., a resident in the 100 block of E. Cypress walked outside his home and discovered his vehicle, which was parked on the street in front of his house, had fresh collision damage that occurred sometime in the morning. This investigation is continuing.

Local Water District Honored as 'WaterSense Partner of the Year'

For a third consecutive year, the Monrovia-based Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District has been honored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as a 2021 WaterSense Partner of the Year.

The district received the award at the WaterSmart Innovations Conference and Exposition in Las Vegas for its helping residents and businesses save water.

The EPA highlighted Upper District's creative outreach efforts to promote water efficiency in 2020 despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. https://is.gd/M4mDEn

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Basin 141

Dinner at Basin 141, at the corner of Myrtle and Lime. Got the Chicken Mole Tacos for $13 and a beer for $6. Really good. 

- Brad Haugaard 

Monrovia Historical Society President to Speak on City's Founding Women on Nov. 13

Monrovia Historical Society President Steve Baker will speak on Saturday, Nov. 13 at the Monrovia Community Center on "Monrovia's Founding Women and What they Created." The event, jointly sponsored with the Monrovia Historic Preservation Group, will be both in-person and virtually by Zoom, at: https://wmp.zoom.us/j/92755488491?pwd=dlJJRDg5ZEk4YkhPamU0ZzVXTHZidz09 Password: 639273.

There will be refreshments for those who come in person. Masks will be required.  The Community Center is at 119 E Palm in Monrovia.

- Brad Haugaard