- Brad Haugaard
Boys & Girls Club Honors Interns
- Brad Haugaard
A Moment in Monrovia History: Davis Grocery Store at Myrtle and Colorado
J.R. Davis bought the grocery from G.H. Dingman in April 1888. Davis closed it in 1890 to return to Pennsylvania. (Monrovia Messenger 5/29/1890). SE corner Myrtle & Orange [now Colorado]. John H. Bartle on corner; J. R. Davis on walk. Bob Monheim on wagon. The OddFellows Lodge IOOF met on the second floor. From the Myron Hotchkiss collection. See full details here.
Column on Monrovia World Cup Player Ashley Sanchez
Here is an LA Times column about Monrovian Ashley Sanchez, on the US women’s World Cup soccer team.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Council: New Auto Repair Rules; Honoring Isaac Epperson; Fixing Roads and Parking South of Library
~ Rules for auto repair businesses that would regulate working on cars outside of bays, prohibit storing vehicles on-site for more than 14 days, regulate storing auto parts outside, and prohibit parking of vehicles on public streets or alleys. Details.
~ Up to $16,500 for a Neighborhood Treasure Landmark by Phillip Godinez (see sketch) to commemorate Isaac Epperson, first President of Monrovia's National Association for the Advancement of Colored People - a position he held for more than 20 years. Under his leadership, the Monrovia NAACP integrated Monrovia's swimming pool, stores, and restaurants. He helped black women get jobs in retail stores, banks, the school district, and utility companies. Details.
~ $6,042,206 for roadway improvements. For fiscal 2022-2023 this will be for the area between Foothill and Huntington, and from the west city limits to Myrtle. This will include sidewalks, water and sewer lines, and improvements to the parking lots just south of the Library. Details.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Going Green; Cooling Center Open; Youth Sports; Stay Safe From Mosquitoes
~ The Monrovia City Council has decided that, by default, all Monrovia electric power will be from renewable energy sources beginning in March 2024. Unless you decide on a different level of green-ness you will pay about $3 more per $100 of energy you use. However, you can select a lower level of renewable power, or opt out entirely. Details.
~ Monrovia Community Center (119 W. Palm Ave.) cooling center has extended its hours until Aug. 3: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. All ages welcome, minors with guardians. Fans available for check out.
~ Fall season of After School Youth Sports for 4th and 5th graders will be held Aug. 16 to Dec. 21, from 2 to 6 p.m. Registration fee: $105/participant. Full scholarships available. Call 256-8246 for details. Includes transportation, team t-shirt, homework help, snack, sportsmanship lessons, and games on Wednesdays at Recreation Park.
~ There will be a meeting on mosquito health and safety tips Thursday, Aug. 10, 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Library. Learn from SGV Mosquito and Vector Control experts. Free admission, food (while supplies last). For questions, email map@ci.monrovia.ca.us or call 932-5563.
- Brad Haugaard
Meet Cops, Firefighters, and Others at National Night Out Aug. 1 at Library Park
- Brad Haugaard
Talk on Monrovia During World War Two, 2 PM at Library This Saturday
- Brad Haugaard
Paint Your Pet Class Sunday at Community Center
There will be a Paint Your Pet class with Sally Weiss on July 30, 2-5 p.m., at Monrovia Community Center (119 W. Palm Ave). Register by Saturday for the $25 class, limited to 10 participants. MAFA pet portrait artist Sally Weiss will guide you in creating a colorful 9x12" acrylic painting of your pet. Bring a color photo print and a black and white print in your desired size. Materials provided. Free hors d'oeuvres from Rivanis Baking Company, beverages from Wine of the Month Club, and live music by Mina Boktor in the Kay Dalton Room. Register here.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Death by Overdose; Man Pulls Down, Burns, US Flag; Drugs and Alcohol; Etc.
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 20 – 26. - Brad Haugaard]During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 366 service events, resulting in 57 investigations.
Vehicle Burglary
July 20 at 6:40 a.m., a victim from the 300 block of Linwood reported that someone smashed his vehicle’s window overnight and stole property. This investigation is continuing.
Possession of a Firearm – Suspect Arrested
July 20 at 6:45 a.m., a caller from the 1200 block of S. Alta Vista reported two suspicious male subjects in the area. Officers arrived and detained the subjects. One of the subjects was found to be in possession of a loaded firearm. He was arrested and taken into custody.
Theft
July 20 at 8:03 a.m., a victim in the 500 block of N. Alta Vista reported that someone entered into his unlocked vehicle and stole items. This investigation is continuing.
Grand Theft – Suspect Arrested
July 20 at 4:51 p.m., employees from a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington reported a theft. Officers arrived and detained two female subjects as they were leaving the store. The females were in possession of the items stolen. Both females were arrested and taken into custody.
Robbery
July 21 at 1:04 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 1900 block of S. Shamrock regarding a theft. The victim stated that the day prior he was approached by an unknown suspect in the 400 block of E. Duarte, punched and his property was taken. This investigation is continuing.
Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
July 21 at 1:39 a.m., a suspicious person was reported in the 300 block of S. Myrtle. Officers arrived and recognized the subject from prior contacts. A computer check of the subject revealed a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and taken into custody.
Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
July 21 at 1:47 a.m., an officer conducted a patrol check in the 1600 block of S. Myrtle and contacted a female subject for being in the park after hours. A computer check revealed the subject was on parole and had a warrant for her arrest. She arrested and taken into custody.
Drug Possession / Weapon Offense – Suspects Arrested
July 21 at 11:55 a.m., while patrolling the area of Mayflower and Parker an officer stopped two subjects. One of the subjects was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia and the other and expandable baton. Both were arrested and taken into custody.
Grand Theft
July 21 at 12:55 p.m., employees of a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington reported a theft in progress. When officers arrived the two male suspects were driving away. A pursuit ensued but was cancelled shortly after, due to unsafe conditions. Some of the merchandise was tagged with GPS trackers and the suspect vehicle was later impounded by LAPD. This investigation is continuing.
Death Report
July 21 at 1:27 p.m., a caller in the 800 block of Monterey reported that his roommate was not breathing. Officers arrived and the subject appeared to have been deceased for some time. The Coroner's Office responded and are handling the investigation as a possible overdose.
Injury Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
July 21 at 4:19 p.m., a traffic collision was reported in the area of Duarte and Fifth. A DUI investigation revealed one of the drivers was driving under the influence. The other party complained of pain. The drunk driver was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
July 21 at 9:28 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 700 block of W. Huntington regarding a call of a woman passed out in a vehicle at the intersection. Officers arrived and discovered the driver was intoxicated. She was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
July 22 at 2:29 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation in the area of Peck and Live Oak. The officer contacted the driver and observed signs of impairment. A DUI investigation revealed that the driver was under the influence. The driver was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.
Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
July 23 at 9:16 p.m., a disturbance was reported in the 100 block of W. Foothill regarding two males arguing. Officers found that one of the subjects was intoxicated. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.
Battery
July 24 at 10:45 a.m., officers responded to the 2600 block of S. California regarding a subject hitting another subject. Investigation revealed both subject punched and spit at one another. This investigation is continuing.
Arson
July 24 at 2:11 p.m., a male subject pulled the American flag down from a business in the 400 block of W. Huntington and set it on fire. The suspect fled the scene prior to officers’ arrival. Shortly after, LASO notified us that they have had similar incidents regarding this suspect. The suspect was later arrested.
Grand Theft
July 24 at 5:13 p.m., a victim was waved down by a subject. The victim’s purse was in the front passenger seat. While she was distracted by the subject another suspect reached in and stole her purse. This investigation is continuing.
Drug Offense – Suspect Arrested
July 25 at 1:44 a.m., an officer was extra patrolling the 700 block of E. Huntington and noticed a subject loitering. The officer made contact with the subject and a consent search revealed the subject was in possession of drug paraphernalia. The subject was arrested, issued a citation and released at the scene.
Illegal Fire – Suspect Arrested
July 25 at 7:23 a.m., officers responded to 600 block of S. Shamrock regarding a male subject near a trash fire. Officers located the male subject who started the fire. He was arrested, issued a citation and released at the scene.
Attempted Burglary
July 25 at 10:09 a.m., a caller from a business in the 500 block of W. Huntington reported that someone attempted to pry open a door to a business. This investigation is continuing.
Grand Theft
July 25 at 11:56 a.m., a victim in the 300 block of Genoa called to report that his vehicle’s catalytic converter was stolen. This investigation is continuing.
Suspicious Circumstances
July 25 at 12:47 p.m., officers responded to the 3300 block of S. Peck regarding a subject who had a firearm in his bag. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject. This investigation is continuing.
Vandalism – Suspect Arrested
July 26 at 8:15 a.m., officers responded to the 800 block of W. Foothill regarding a male subject that threw a rock at a window, shattering it. The suspect and a witness were located. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.
Brandishing
July 26 at 9:42 a.m., officers responded to the area of Duarte and Santa Anita wash regarding a male subject who brandish a firearm. The officers searched the area but did not locate the suspect, weapon, or witnesses. This investigation is continuing.
Petty Theft
July 26 at 5:08 p.m., an officer responded to the 700 block of E. Huntington regarding a stolen wallet. The victim said her wallet was stolen while she was shopping. This investigation is continuing.
Vehicle Tampering – Suspect Arrested
July 27 at 12:46 a.m., the alarm company for a vehicle dealership in the 700 block of E. called to report a suspicious subject loitering and walking around entering an unlocked vehicle. Officers arrived and detained the subject attempting to leave the area. The subject was arrested, cited, and released at the scene.
Hiker Dies in Monrovia Mountains
The South Pasadena hiker who went missing in the mountains above Monrovia did not survive. A friend of his, Andy Connell, wrote on Facebook:
Today is a sad day - my friend, colleague, & bandmate [band Chorro Famoso] Colin Walker disappeared on a hike in the mountains behind Los Angeles about two weeks ago. Last night, his body was discovered by the Sierra Madre Search and Rescue squad who had been searching for him for over 10 days. I am heartbroken - besides being a fine guitarist with an encyclopedic knowledge of Brazilian music, Colin was a husband, father, mentor, and all round great human being. My heart goes out to his wife Marian, son Nolan, and brother Ian. RIP Colin Walker.
- Brad Haugaard
Lunch at B & C Teriyaki
Lunch at B & C Teriyaki, the food stand at the corner of Foothill and Madison. Got the beef, bean and cheese burrito for $8.89 and a small soda for $1.59. I took a couple bites out of the burrito so you could sort of see what’s inside. It’s cash only and there is some outside seating in the shade. Nice fat burrito.
- Brad Haugaard
Hunt for Hiker Still On
The hunt for the missing hiker in the mountains above Monrovia has apparently not been completely called off. A ranger at the Ridgeside entry point to the Wilderness Preserve told me that the entry point was closed because of the search. Also, a helicopter is hovering above one of the hills, as I’m writing this.
- Brad Haugaard
Search for Missing Hiker Above Monrovia 'Scaled Back'
The search for Colin Walker, the South Pasadena hiker missing in the mountains above Monrovia, was "scaled back" as of Sunday evening after consulting with Walker's family, according to a post by Sierra Madre Search and Rescue on its Facebook page.
Sierra Madre Search and Rescue will continue efforts to locate him. If you have any information or clues, please contact the South Pasadena Police Department at (626) 403-7297.
The search began on July 17 when Walker's vehicle was found at the Clamshell trailhead off of Ridgeside Drive in Monrovia. The search involved 20 search and rescue teams, helicopters, search dogs, mounted search and rescue, drones, and ATVs from agencies in Los Angeles County and California. The search area covered roughly 40 square miles, with challenging terrain such as steep ridges, waterfalls, canyons, fire-damaged slopes, and dense brush.
Contributing to the search were:
Altadena Mountain Rescue
Antelope Valley Search and Rescue
California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (OES)
California Rescue Dogs Association (CARDA)
California Search and Rescue
China Lake Mountain Rescue Group
Kern County Search and Rescue
LASD Emergency Services Detail/Aero Bureau (Air5)
LASD Mounted Search and Rescue
LASD Reserve Forces Detail
Los Angeles County Fire Department - Air Operations
Malibu Search and Rescue
Marin County Search and Rescue
Montrose Search and Rescue
Orange County Mountain Rescue
Rim of the World Search and Rescue
Riverside Mountain Rescue Unit
San Bernardino Cave Rescue Team
San Bernardino Mountain Search and Rescue
San Diego Mountain Rescue
San Diego Search and Rescue
San Dimas Mountain Rescue
San Gorgonio Search and Rescue
San Luis Obispo Search and Rescue
Santa Barbara Search and Rescue
Santa Clarita Valley Search and Rescue
Upper Ojai Search and Rescue
Ventura County Sheriff Aviation Unit
Ventura East Valley Search and Rescue
Comment: This is sad. I think it is always wise if you are going anywhere unusual in the mountains to let someone know your exact planned route.
- Brad Haugaard
Paint Your Pet Class at Artists Reception July 30
- Brad Haugaard
More Artists Will Display At Saturday's Summer Art Walk Then in Years
Monrovia Association of Fine Arts Past President Christine Geltz reports that there will be 15 artists displaying their works for the Art Walk this Saturday (6-9 p.m.) in Old Town Monrovia, the third highest number in MAFA history and the most in her five year tenure as president.
- Brad Haugaard
School Board to Evaluate Superintendent
The Monrovia School Board will hold a special session on Wednesday, July 26 at 4 p.m., to evaluate Superintendent Ryan Smith’s performance. There will be a public comment period prior to the board going into close session and a report on the closed session when it reconvenes in open session. Performance evaluations generally occur once a year. Details.
- Brad Haugaard
Mellow Bella Looking for Her Best Friend
Bella is a 5-year-old lab/shepherd mix who is ready to find her best friend. She is a very mellow girl- she likes sniffing around and exploring. Her nose is finely tuned to seek out snacks and she will not let up until she has completely cleaned up everything she can find.
Bella knows some basic commands, but her preferred trick is to follow you around and bat her big brown eyes or nudge you with her nose until you give her a reward. She is just as content to just get pets or scratches as she is to get a tasty treat.
Bella recently went on a field trip with one of our volunteers and had such a great day! She got to go for a car ride, which was so much fun. She met tons of people and sat patiently for pets.
This sweet girl has a very loving personality and adores every person she has met. She’s not much of a fan of other dogs, though, so she should be the only dog in the home.
Bella is eligible for the Seniors for Seniors program. Any dog or cat over five years old can be adopted for free to any adopter over 60.
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
A Moment in Monrovia History: John and Julian Fisher
"Julian D. Fisher was born in Denver, Colorado on August 9, 1896. He grew up on Lucky Baldwin’s Rancho Santa Anita. He came to Monrovia in about 1909 and remained a Monrovia resident for nearly 70 years until he died in 1976. His father, John Isaac Wesley Fisher -- a black man and former slave from St. Louis who was freed at the age of eight -- was the head blacksmith and farrier for Baldwin. He was a prominent breeder and trainer there and later a foreman on the ranch. Baldwin marveled at John Fisher’s horse care abilities and trusted him. Baldwin sent him to North Carolina to bring back families used to working in the fields; some would become blacksmiths. One of the apprentices was his son Julian. Julian had diphtheria and the move to California in 1900 was thought to be therapeutic. Julian was almost 5 years old, small and frail. At first Julian seemed destined to become a jockey, but as his health improved he outgrew that and became an exercise rider instead. He was quite a good rider and Lucky Baldwin gave him a pony. Julian and his pony won 1st prize in the Rose Parade three years in a row. As an adult, Julian was a Special Reserve Officer for the Monrovia Police Department for over 20 tears, a position he began in 1942. Upon his death the Monrovia City Council closed its meeting in his memory; flags at public buildings were flown at half-staff." Monrovia's ChangeMakers 2017. From the Myron Hotchkiss collection. See full details here.
Laser Tag at the Library August 11
Laser tag for teens, grades 6-12, at the Library's Community Room on Friday, August 11, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Register here. Seven slots remaining.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Gets $2 Million From State to Fix Canyon Park
The California Legislature passed Assembly Bill 102 (Item 18) that included an appropriation, promoted by Assembly member Chris Holden, of $2 Million for the Canyon Park Restoration Project. Funds will go towards restoring roads, sidewalks, the water system, and facilities located at the Canyon Park that were damaged during the 2020 Bobcat Fires and the 2021 mudslides.
- Brad Haugaard
Learn About Living With Bears
- Brad Haugaard
Junior Naturalist Day August 11
- Brad Haugaard
Former Monrovia Mayor Lutz Announces Candidacy for Congress
Former Monrovia Mayor Mary Ann Lutz has announced her candidacy for the congressional seat of retiring Grace Napolitano. On LinkedIn she wrote:
I am Mary Ann Lutz, candidate for U.S. Congress.
I am running to serve the residents of the San Gabriel Valley as the next Congresswoman for District 31. We live in challenging times. We need serious, experienced leaders who can deliver for the valley and for our nation. I know how to lead through difficult times and produce positive results.
For more than 35 years, my husband and I have lived in the district. During that time, I have had the honor to serve as Mayor, Councilmember, and Member of the Board of Trustees as well as for numerous government and non-profit organizations. I also worked as an advisor to our current Congresswoman to further advance the health and safety of our neighborhoods.
Now it is time for me to take my knowledge and skills to Washington, D.C. to represent your voice and the needs of the San Gabriel Valley with honesty and integrity. As your Congressmember, I will focus on how we move our nation forward. By working together, we will all thrive.
I hope to earn your support.
~ Mary Ann Lutz
Lutz will be running against two state senators Bob Archuleta (30th district), and Susan Rubio (22nd district). All three candidates are Democrats.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Texas Car Recovered; Car Stolen From Dealership; Thefts, Drugs and Alcohol, Etc.
Grand Theft Auto Recovery
July 13 at 8:26 a.m., an officer patrolling the 700 block of W. Huntington saw a suspicious vehicle in a parking lot. A computer check of the vehicle revealed it was stolen out of Texas. This investigation is continuing.
Drug Activity – Suspect Arrested
July 14 at 2:37 a.m., a caller reported seeing a suspicious male adult in the back of a closed business in the 2100 block of S. Myrtle. Officers arrived and located the subject who was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and taken into custody.
Theft
July 14 at 4:13 p.m., a mail carrier in the 800 block of W. Duarte parked his vehicle and walked away. An unknown male subject approached the vehicle and stole items. This investigation is continuing.
Drug Activity – Suspect Arrested
July 15 at 1:22 a.m., while patrolling the 700 block of W. Chestnut an officer stopped a bicyclist for a vehicle code violation. A search revealed the subject was in possession of drug paraphernalia. The subject was arrested.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
July 16 at 1:43 a.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a traffic offense in the 2500 block of S. Myrtle. The driver displayed symptoms of intoxication and admitted to consuming alcoholic beverages. A DUI investigation revealed the driver was driving under the influence. The driver was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.
Grand Theft
July 16 at 11:08 a.m., an employee from a retail store in the 700 block of E. Huntington reported that merchandise was stolen the day prior. This investigation is continuing.
Domestic Violence
July 17 at 9:36 a.m., officers were dispatched to a residence in the 100 block of N. Garfield regarding a battery. Upon arrival officers recognized the victim from a previous call for service where she suffered injuries to her head and face. The victim reported that she returned to the home she had been sharing with her girlfriend in order to retrieve property. When she arrived her girlfriend assaulted her. An investigation revealed that the prior incident was also a domestic violence. This investigation is continuing.
Grand Theft
July 17 at 10:12 a.m., an employee from a business in the 700 block of E. Huntington called to report a theft. Two unknown male subjects entered the store and took merchandise without paying. The suspects fled prior to officers’ arrival. This investigation is continuing.
Non-Injury Traffic Collision
July 17 at 11:54 a.m., a delivery driver in a cargo truck collided with low-hanging utility wires connected to a pole in the 900 block of W. Duarte. The wires became loose and the pole broke. No injuries were reported.
Attempt Grand Theft Auto
July 17 at 7:19 p.m., a theft from a vehicle was reported in a parking structure in the 700 block of S. Myrtle. An investigation revealed it was a vehicle theft attempt. This investigation is continuing.
Mental Evaluation
July 18 at 8:31 a.m., officers responded to a residential complex in the 300 block of W. Duarte regarding a subject who jumped from a second story window. Officers arrived and located the subject. An investigation revealed the subject was under the influence of drugs. His injuries were treated on scene by MFD and he was later taken to a hospital for a mental evaluation.
Grand Theft Auto
July 18 at 9:31 a.m., a resident of a residential complex in the 700 block of S. Myrtle called to report that her vehicle was stolen overnight. This investigation is continuing.
Grand Theft Auto
July 18 at 11:09 a.m., an auto dealership in the 800 block of E. Central reported that a subject walked onto the lot and stole a vehicle. This investigation is continuing.
Fraud
July 18 at 4:41 p.m., a victim in the 200 block of E. Cypress came to the MPD lobby to report they had been scammed. A subject impersonating a representative of the Social Security Administration called the victim and claimed the victim’s SSN had been compromised and requested the victim send money to fix the issue. The victim complied, then later realized he'd been scammed. This investigation is continuing.
Theft
July 19 at 12:47 p.m., a retail store in the 700 block of E. Huntington called to report an unknown male subject entered the location and stole merchandise. This investigation is continuing.
Grand Theft Auto Recovery
July 19 at 1:55 p.m., a business in the 3300 block of S. Peck called to report that a vehicle turned in to them appeared to be stolen. The suspect(s) were unknown and not at the location. An officer responded and confirmed the vehicle had been reported stolen. The vehicle was returned to the registered owner. This investigation is continuing.
Mental Evaluation
July 19 at 6:22 p.m., a mother in the 1200 block of Encino called to report her son, who suffers from a mental issues, had hit her husband. Officers arrived and detained the adult son. Due to the mental state of the son, officers determined he was a danger to others and he was transported to a medical facility for a mental evaluation
Man Still Missing; Tracker Dogs Come In
A South Pasadenan man is apparently still missing in the mountains above Monrovia. A search team with tracker dogs has come in.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Twins Collecting Supplies for Humane Society Animals
- Brad Haugaard
Second Summer Art Walk on Saturday, July 29
- Brad Haugaard
Jewish Federation to Honor Chu For Medal Proposal
- Brad Haugaard
Bradoaks Student Honored for Hat He Invented That Warns Visually Impaired of Obstacles
Bradoaks student Ian Machado Borel was recognized at the June 14 Monrovia School Board meeting for the hat he invented that alerts the visually impaired with a beep, warning of obstacles ahead.
- Brad Haugaard
Austin Is Ready to Play Ball - He's a Fetch-a-holic
Handsome Austin is a three-year-old Belgian Shepherd who is just looking for someone who wants to play ball!
Austin is very smart, affectionate and ready to go on adventures. He likes going on walks and hikes and then settling down to relax in the grass. He has lived with a small dog and appears to be house trained. He also knows several commands and is happy to show off his repertoire of tricks, especially for treats! He is a master at “sit” “down” and “shake”.
Austin's favorite thing to do is play fetch! He loves chasing a tennis ball and will diligently bring it back and then toss it to you, so you’ll throw it again. And again.
Austin bonds very quickly with the volunteers at Pasadena Humane who have gotten to spend time with him. He is surely going to be someone’s BFF soon!
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. 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
Dinner at Basin 141
Dinner at Basin 141, at the corner of Myrtle and Lime. Got the two-taco plate with a crisp pork belly taco and a chicken mole taco for $14.50, and a “Basin 141 Blonde” lager for $5.50. Nice and spicy.
- Brad Haugaard
South Pasadena Man Missing in Mountains Above Monrovia
A South Pasadena man is reportedly missing in the hills above Monrovia. He entered the Hillside Wilderness Preserve at the Ridgeside entry point and has not been seen or heard from since.
- Brad Haugaard
A Moment in Monrovia History: CF Crank, Railroad Man, Capitalist, Co-Founder of Monrovia
J.F. Crank was one of the founders of Monrovia. "In 1885, Hon. E. F. Spence, former Mayor of Los Angeles, Judge J. D. Bicknell, a prominent Los Angeles attorney, and J. F. Crank, a Lamanda Park railroad man and capitalist, purchased some land of E. J. Baldwin. In the Spring of 1886, they and Mr. Monroe decided to found a town upon the land included in their holdings, and John Quinton and John Flannagan, two engineers, laid out sixty acres, with a center at Orange (now Colorado) and Myrtle Avenues. The tract extended from Magnolia to Canyon Avenues on the western and eastern boundaries, and from a half block south of Walnut to a half block north of Lime. These were the boundaries of the original town of Monrovia." John L. Wiley, History of Monrovia, 1927, p 47. From the Myron Hotchkiss collection. See full details here.
Poems for Monrovia's Sidewalks
At its July 19 meeting (agenda here) Monrovia's Art in Public Places Committee will consider adopting eight poems to be stamped into concrete sidewalks around town this year.
Here's one I like:
Then Monrovia Called
I grew up as a rolling stone
With no town to call my own
Then Monrovia called, I came this way
To finally stop, and smile, and stay
See the rest here.
- Brad Haugaard
Book Review: Fabulous New Book on Monrovia During World War II
Monrovia author Dick Singer has produced a fabulous new book, People Like You and Me: A History of Monrovia in World War II.
Obviously, it is about Monrovia and Monrovians, but even if I lived in Minot, North Dakota, I’d still think it was a great book because it tells in a very engaging fashion of a small town’s part in the drama of a huge war - what Monrovia was like at that time and what it’s people were doing both at home and overseas.
I’m only 162 pages into it (there are 373 pages of story), the war has barely begun and I’ve already learned about Monrovia’s part in the famous Doolittle Raid on Tokyo, about leading citizens leaving their businesses’ lights on during blackouts (Oops!), the restrictions placed on Japanese (and some Germans and Italians), Japanese internment, and people’s surprise at one Japanese family being interned; they thought the family was Chinese because they ran a chop suey restaurant.
As with his other Monrovia books, 1887 and Renaissance Years, the book is meticulously documented, with 39 pages of references in itty-bitty type. Scholarly yet exciting. It feels very much like a Ken Burns documentary, but in print.
You can buy People Like You and Me at Charlie’s House, 430 S. Myrtle. Books will also be available when Singer speaks about the book at the Library, 2 p.m, July 29.
If you need it mailed, email Sandy Burud of the Monrovia Historical Society at monroviahistoricalsociety1896@gmail.com. Cost is $30+$5 shipping. She’ll fill you in on the details.
Now, if you will please excuse me, I want to get back to my reading.
- Brad Haugaard
School District Releases 2030 Strategic Plan Overview
- Brad Haugaard
Broken Gas Line on Royal Oaks
Crews working on a broken gas line at 1048 Royal Oaks Dr., at Royal Oak Village. Adjacent condos evacuated.
- Brad Haugaard
Free Monrovia Leadership Academies, For Youth and Adults
Monrovia Area Partners Youth Leadership Academy, a free 7-week program held Wednesdays from Sept. 7 to Oct. 19 from 3:30-5 p.m. is designed to help youth learn and grow to take active roles in their community. Details
The Monrovia Area Partnership's annual Adult Leadership Academy starts Sept. 7 and runs seven consecutive Thursdays through Oct. 19 from 7-9 p.m. The program educates residents about city government and provides leadership skills to connect them to the community. Many graduates serve in various community roles. Details
- Brad Haugaard
Phishing Hits Monrovia; Cooling Center Open; Share Your Concerns for Disaster Plan
In his latest report (https://goo.gl/aOqX7O) City Manager Dylan Feik reports:
~ Phishing attacks are now targeting Monrovians. Phishing involves deceptive emails or messages that mimic legitimate entities to trick people into sharing sensitive information. Recently, a resident received a suspicious email (shown above), seemingly from the city, urging them to click a suspicious URL. Signs of a scam include: no existing account, lack of personalization, poor grammar, and requests for personal information or passwords. If you suspect a phishing email, report it to reportphishing@apwg.org. For more information, visit www.ftc.gov/phishing.
~ Share your concerns regarding natural disasters in Monrovia for the city's Hazard Mitigation Plan, which will be designed to reduce the loss of life, personal injury, and property damage. Survey here.
- Brad Haugaard
Council to Consider Letting Baker's Homes Become 11-Room Hotel; Designating Canyon Home as Historic; Recognizing Kiwanis and Plastics Free Month
City Historian Steve Baker's former homes.
At its next meeting (agenda here) the Monrovia City Council will consider ...
~ Allowing the two homes on a single lot formerly owned by long-time City Historian and City Treasurer Steve Baker to be converted into a small historic, 11-room hotel with catered events, a small café and the service of alcoholic beverages. The Planning Commission and Development Review Committee have both recommended approval. Details.
~ Designating the house at 332 North Canyon as an historic landmark. The house is Spanish Colonial Revival style and was designed by a "notable builder," Charles S. Cramlet. Details.
~ Recognizing Kiwanis Club's 101st birthday. and proclaim July as Plastics Free Month.
- Brad Haugaard
Monrovia Police: Bear Hit By Car; Roof Burns; Indecent Exposure to Cars; Armed Robbery of Catalytic Converter; Arrest in Decades Old Rape
[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 6 – 12. - Brad Haugaard]
During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 407 service events, resulting in 80 investigations.
Elder Abuse
July 6 at 3:44 a.m., officers responded to the 600 block of W. Duarte Road regarding a possible dispute and struggle inside an apartment. Officers knocked on the door of the apartment and spoke with a female adult. The female told officers she lived there with her elderly mother. Officers requested to check on the welfare of the mother, but the female refused and argued with officers. Officers made entry into the mother’s room and discovered she had been assaulted. This investigation is continuing.
Grand Theft Auto
July 6 at 7:21 a.m., the reporting party called and stated his vehicle had been stolen from the 500 block of E. Colorado. This investigation is continuing.
Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
July 6 at 11:31 a.m., employees in the 1600 block of S. Mountain reported a theft. An adult male took merchandise and left without paying. The suspect was located and the merchandise was returned. He was arrested, issued a citation and released at the scene.
Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
July 6 at 10:01 p.m., a resident in the 400 block of S. Ivy reported she and her boyfriend were in an argument and needed police assistance. Officers arrived and found the caller had caused multiple visible injuries to her boyfriend's face. She was arrested and taken into custody.
Grand Theft Auto
July 7 at 5:36 a.m., a victim in the 1000 block of E. Royal Oaks walked outside his home and discovered someone had taken his car without permission sometime during the night. This investigation is continuing.
Grand Theft
July 7 at 11:17 a.m., a caller in the 900 block of W. Olive called to report that his vehicle's catalytic converter had been stolen. This investigation is continuing.
Warrant Arrest – Suspect Arrested
July 7 at 1:28 p.m., an employee at a hotel in the 1100 block of E. Huntington called to report that a renter was refusing to leave his room after the checkout time. Officers contacted the subject and a computer check revealed that he had an outstanding warrant. He was arrested, issued a citation and released at the scene.
Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
July 7 at 8:45 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 400 block of Royal Oaks regarding a domestic violence incident. During an argument the male grabbed the female by her arms tightly. The female desired prosecution. He was arrested and taken into custody.
Non-Injury Traffic Collision
July 8 at 1:24 a.m., a caller reported he was driving in the 500 block of W. Foothill and had just collided into a bear. The driver was not injured, however, the bear did not survive his wounds. California Fish and Wildlife were notified.
Traffic Stop – Suspect Arrested
July 8 at 2:42 a.m., while on patrol in the 400 block of S. Primrose officers stopped a vehicle for numerous traffic violation. An investigation revealed the female driver provided officers with false identifying information. She was arrested and taken into custody where she was correctly identified.
Structure Fire
July 10 at 12:50 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of Fig reported seeing black smoke coming from the roof of a vacant house that is being renovated. When MPD officers and MFD arrived the roof was fully engulfed in flames. MFD quickly extinguished the fire. No one was found inside. The arson investigator's initial investigation revealed the fire was caused accidently by the construction work.
Commercial Burglary / Pursuit – Suspects Arrested
July 10 at 3:10 a.m., an alarm activation was reported in the 700 block of E. Huntington. Officers arrived and saw a vehicle fleeing the location and a pursuit ensued. Officers confirmed the business had been burglarized. The California Highway Patrol took over the pursuit in the 605 freeway and were able to successfully apprehend the two suspects. Both suspects were arrested and taken into custody.
Traffic Collision
July 10 at 9:18 a.m., officers responded to a non-injury traffic collision near Huntington and Shamrock.
Sexual Battery
July 10 at 9:22 a.m., a sexual battery was reported in the 300 block of W. Cypress. Officers arrived and located the victim who reported that an adult male subject on a bicycle passed by the victim and inappropriately touched her. This investigation is continuing.
Traffic Collision
July 10 at 3:10 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 1100 block of Orange regarding a traffic collision between a solo driver and numerous parked vehicles. Officers arrived and determined the driver suffered a medical emergency.
Indecent Exposure – Suspect Arrested
July 11 at 6:11 p.m., officers responded to a bus stop in the 800 block of E. Huntington regarding a male adult exposing himself to passing vehicles. Officers arrived and spoke with a witness, who desired to make a citizen's arrest against the suspect. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.
Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
July 11 at 8:15 p.m., an employee from a business in the 200 block of E. Foothill called to report an intoxicated subject inside the store attempting to purchase more alcohol. As officers were responding, the employee advised the subject got into a vehicle and drove away. An officer located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop. A DUI investigation revealed the driver was under the influence. The driver was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.
Driving Under the Influence / Injury Traffic Collision
July 11 at 10:00 p.m., officers responded to an injury traffic collision in the area of Palm and Magnolia. Officers arrived and saw a solo vehicle had crashed into two other parked vehicles. The female driver displayed symptoms of being under the influence of alcohol and was transported to a hospital for minor injuries. This investigation is continuing.
Armed Robbery
July 12 at 4:45 a.m., a resident from the 600 block of W. Colorado reported three suspects stole his catalytic converter. When the victim confronted the suspects, one of the suspects pointed a handgun at the victim and told him to go back in his house. This investigation is continuing.
Detective Bureau Update:
October 21, 2002 at 12:30 a.m., officers responded to the 1800 block of S. Sixth regarding a rape. DNA was located and processed, there were no matching DNA records on file. On April 14, 2023 MPD was notified that a DNA match was located from a recent DNA entry. The suspect has been arrested in Illinois and is pending extradition to Monrovia.
Monrovia Schools Job Fair
Monrovia School District is hosting a Recruitment and Job Fair on Wednesday, July 26, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Monrovia Community Adult School (920 Mountain Ave). The district is hiring for several positions for the upcoming school year:
- After School Activity Leader
- Bus Driver
- Campus Assistant
- Campus Security Officer
- Food Service Worker
- Instructional Aide and more
Bring your resume and be prepared to interview.
For more information go to edjoin.com/monroviaschools or contact humanresources@monroviaschools.net.
- Brad Haugaard
Vacation Bible School July 19-21 at Calvary Chapel Monrovia
- Brad Haugaard
Dinner at Bella Sera
Dinner at Bella Sera, on the east side of Myrtle just north of Lemon. Got the antipasti salad with chicken for $19 and a beer for $8. Very nice.
- Brad Haugaard
Possible Weekend Temperatures As High as 107 Degrees
- Brad Haugaard
Register for Community Meeting on Mosquitoes
- Brad Haugaard
Yolanda - Sassy Confident and Sweet Sensitive
Lovely Miss Yolanda ("Yo" for short) has been waiting patiently for her forever home for quite some time! We really don't know why, as she is such an amazing girl!
Yolanda has been in a foster home and gotten stellar reviews. Her foster tells us Yolanda has been a wonderful house guest. She adjusted really well to the foster home and learned the routines quickly. She sleeps when left alone during day, no barking or separation anxiety.
"Yo walks great on a leash, loves to go for rides. She's a good mix of sassy confident and sweet sensitive. Very loving, she will nudge up to your hands and get excited with her butt and tail wagging asking for attention. She wants to be close and is a great cuddler. She really enjoys bones and her kong. During the day, she's either sleeping on dog bed by my desk or snoring behind me on couch. She's a great couch companion watching a show or game. She sleeps in bed next to me peacefully at night. I can tell that she's used to being a family dog. This sweet old lady is going to make whoever adopts her incredibly happy!"
Yolanda is truly a special girl ready for her special home. Could that be yours?
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
Leslie Van Houten Paroled
Former Charles Manson follower and Monrovia High School cheerleader, Leslie Van Houten, has been released from prison on parole. Details.
- Brad Haugaard
Police, CHP Catch Burglary Suspects After Long Chase
Monrovia Police and Highway Patrol arrested men suspected of attempting to burglarize a Monrovia business after a long, multi-freeway chase. Details.
- Brad Haugaard
A Moment in Monrovia History: Monrovia High School Students in 1906
Monrovia High School in 1906, on Ivy Avenue. From the Steve Baker collection. See full details here.
Progress on Canyon Park - What's Planned
Construction has begun on the damaged rock wall below the Nature Center in Canyon Park. The roadway is being replaced, parking lots are being renovated, and infrastructure improvements are being made, including water main replacement and sewer line installation. The project estimate is between $17-$18 million. Additional park features and enhancements are being added, such as picnic areas, seating areas, an educational center, and improvements to the Veterans Memorial. the park should hopefully open in winter, 2024.
The road work below the Nature Center is major because, "the wall and surrounding roadway began sliding downhill this past spring. Unfortunately, the wall has moved enough that we needed to excavate a large portion of the roadway only to find that fixing the wall will mean removing large portions so we can install a proper footing since the rock wall sat on a foundation of piled rock, and lasted for decades. Fixing the wall means we have to take it down and rebuild."
Construction plans for Canyon Park are almost complete. Here's what's planned:
- Replacing the roadway from Canyon Blvd. to the Damkeeper's House
- Replacing all parking lots and adding 24 new parking spaces
- Replacing the water main, installing a booster pump to feed water from the Oakglade tank, and removing the old Canyon Park water tank
- Installing a 6" sewer line and removing septic tanks
- Repairing damaged culverts, guardrails, walls, etc.
- Enhanced park entrance with new picnic tables and a public art piece
- Enhancing the park entrance kiosk to enclose it, add air conditioning and storage
- A small picnic and parking area just beyond the road to Trask Boy Scout Camp
- A new raised deck/platform near the small picnic area to provide a quiet and peaceful
- place to sit next to the stream and observe nature
- A new ADA parking area near the cabin
- A new small seating area near the cabin and near a large heritage oak tree
- Enhanced seating that is being called the "Canyon Park Educational Center," with seating near the entrance to 3 Graves Trail, where park naturalists can teach us about the park, nature, wildlife, plants and more
- Enhancements to the Veterans Memorial, adding native landscaping, seating and perhaps signage to make it a destination within the park
- A renovated overlook at the top of the park
- Renovation of the Damkeeper's House to be used for special events and rentals on a limited basis. This area has the best views within the park and we will begin making renovations and repairs for future public use.
- Brad Haugaard
Bear Dies on Monrovia Family's Front Lawn
A bear, possibly hit by a car, died on a Monrovia woman's front lawn. Details
- Brad Haugaard
Fellowship Church Gathering Back-to-School Supplies for 500 Students
Fellowship Church at Monrovia High School is collecting school supplies for 500 students in need. Drop off donations at the 9 or 11 a.m. Sunday gatherings between June 25 and August 6. Items needed include backpacks, lunchboxes, notebooks, reusable water bottles, pencil packs, folders, erasers, crayon boxes, marker packs, glue sticks, colored pencils, pencil boxes. Details
- Brad Haugaard
Police Call Tow Truck to Haul Wheelchair
An elderly man fell out of his wheelchair. An ambulance took him to the hospital, but what to do with his heavy duty wheelchair? So police called a tow truck to haul it to the hospital. Here is a Facebook video.
- Brad Haugaard
Job Openings in Monrovia
Here are links to the latest job opportunities for Monrovia:
- Brad Haugaard
Names Have Changed But Buildings Are the Same
The magazine has been quite the world traveler. I received it from a friend who married a Monrovia woman and had a career in the Army. Here’s what he writes about the magazine:
“I think I picked it up shortly after we moved back to Monrovia in 1982. Since then the magazine was moved from Monrovia to our first house in Santa Barbara, to Butzbach in Germany, to Giessen in Germany, back to our first house in Santa Barbara, to our second house in Santa Barbara, to Heidelberg in Germany, to Stuttgart in Germany, to our house in Montecito, to our third house in Santa Barbara, to a storage unit while we lived in the rental house, and then to our fourth and present house in Santa Barbara. I found it while sorting boxes in the garage and thought this might be a good time to return it to Monrovia.”
A couple of pictures from the magazine appear above. Although the names on these buildings have changed, I’m sure you’ll have no trouble identifying them.
- Brad Haugaard
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