Monrovia Now: News and Comment about Monrovia, California

Rain Likely Today and Weekend | Foothill Unity Center: More Needy

~ Forty percent chance of rain today, then 30 percent on Saturday and 10 percent Sunday: http://goo.gl/3cyFu

~ The number of people needing help from Foothill Unity Center continues to climb. The Center expects to give out 3,000 food boxes to low-income families during holiday distributions this year.

Monrovia's Foothill Unity Center reports that it has served about 10,000 people through October, including 35,454 food orders to 12,117 individuals; 2,124 health services; provided 248 emergency hotel vouchers; referred 1,873 individuals to more than 100 service providers; provided 11,898 children with back-to-school supplies; gave 1,643 families Thanksgiving boxes and 11,855 holiday food boxes, and donated toys and clothes to 2,828 children.

If you'd like to help, you can donate here: http://goo.gl/di7XC

- Brad Haugaard

Juvenile Justice Jeopardy Game at Clifton Middle School

Students can win up to $60 playing Juvenile Justice Jeopardy Dec. 4, 3:30-5:30 p.m. at Monrovia's Clifton Middle School while learning about their rights and responsibilities under the law. Presented by the Deputy Public Defender and Deputy District Attorney. Teams of 3-5 can enter. Parents can come too.

- Brad Haugaard

Opinion: Please, Senator Liu, use RSS

In the process of switching over to track Monrovia's new state senator (Democrat Carol Liu) from our previous state senator (Republican Bob Huff), I noticed something strange.

To get news out quickly, I use an old but reliable system called RSS (Really Simple Syndication) that is embedded in virtually every web publishing platform. It let me quickly track additions Senator Huff made to his web page and turn his comments into news, so I thought I would use the same system to track additions Senator Carol Liu makes to her web page.

Well, I can't because she isn't using RSS. Further, in poking around, it appears that only two of her 25 Democratic senatorial colleagues listed here ( http://democrats.senate.ca.gov/members ) are using it. These are Kevin de Leon and Alan Lowenthal.

This strikes me as an oversight and not intentional, but it should be corrected.

RSS lets not only me, but anybody, quickly track what their representatives have to say.

On the other side of the aisle, all 14 Republican state senators listed here ( http://cssrc.us/senators.aspx ) have an RSS feed for their websites and all but two (Ted Gaines and Sharon Runner) have an RSS button displayed right on their home page.

I ask that in reaching toward the ideal of open government, that Senator Carol Liu and her colleagues would activate the RSS feeds on their websites.

- Brad Haugaard

Senator Huff: Prop 30 Won't Bring More Money to Classroom

State Senator Bob Huff - who represents Monrovia until Carol Liu takes over - says that "Proposition 30 will not bring in more money to school classrooms. It simply stops the governor from pulling trigger cuts and further reducing education funding. So now we are in a situation where we are around 47th in the nation in per pupil funding but also have the highest tax rates in the nation. It begs the question, how are all the other states with lower tax rates funding their schools more than California?" More here: http://goo.gl/JJKp8

- Brad Haugaard

Local Jewish Federation Supports Israel

The Jewish Federation of the Greater San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys has issued a press release saying, "The Jewish Federation of the Greater San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys and the local Jewish community stand with Israel and supports its right to defend its citizens from the terror and continued rocket fire from Hamas, Islamic Jihad and other terror groups operating in Gaza."

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Injuring a Cop, Teen Not Tricked, Stealing Meat, Son Hits Mom, Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for Nov. 8-14. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the highlighted issues and events for November 8-14, 2012. During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 469 service events, resulting in 90 investigations.

Battery on a Peace Officer / Parole Violation - Suspect Arrested

November 8 at 6:50 a.m., officers were dispatched to a residence in the 300 block of East Olive regarding a subject trespassing. An officer located and detained a person matching the suspect's description at the corner of Olive and Myrtle. The officer confirmed it was, in fact, the suspect, and also learned that the suspect was on active parole. An assisting officer arrived and during a search of the suspect, a bag of illegal narcotics was found in his possession. The suspect became uncooperative and made attempts to break free from the officers. A brief struggle ensued, but the suspect was eventually taken into custody. As a result of the struggle, one of the officers sustained minor injuries. The suspect was charged with battery on a peace officer and violation of parole.

Residential Burglary

November 8 at 3:43 p.m., a residential burglary was reported in the 900 block of East Greystone. The burglary occurred sometime between 7:00 a.m. and 3:40 p.m. The point of entry appears to be an unlocked bathroom window. The items taken were a Kindle, laptop computers, and a television. The investigation is continuing.

Man Attempts to Lure Teen into Car

November 8, at approximately 4:00 p.m., a 14-year-old middle school student was walking home alone after attending an after school sporting event. As the student approached the area of Canyon and Colorado, a male suspect approached her and made inquiries about schools, as if he were unfamiliar with the area. When the student answered the suspect's questions, he told her he needed to go to the high school and was in a hurry. The suspect asked the student to get in his car and direct him to the high school. When the student refused, the suspect offered her $200 to get in his car and direct him to the high school, but she refused again and continued to walk away. The student glanced back and observed the suspect enter his vehicle and drive away.

The suspect is described as a male, Hispanic, 20-25 years old, 5-09 to 5-10, 180 to 190 pounds, black shaggy hair - medium length, brown eyes, clean shaven, with silver metal-framed prescription glasses. The suspect was wearing a black t-shirt and khaki pants with a brown camouflage pattern stripe on the legs. The suspect vehicle is described as a silver, late 90's model, Honda Civic, 4-door, with a bicycle rack attached to the back of the trunk. Click on Press Release to see a sketch of the suspect. The investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary - Two Suspects Arrested

November 9 at 6:24 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 700 block of East Huntington regarding a burglary. A male and female entered a grocery store and concealed packages of meat on their person; the female suspect concealed meat in her purse. Both suspects attempted to exit without paying. Loss prevention attempted to stop them. The female stopped long enough for the loss prevention agent to grab her purse, and then both the male and female fled to a waiting car, which was driven away by another male suspect. Officers located the vehicle with the suspects. One suspect fled, while the other two were detained by officers. Despite an area search, the male suspect that ran was not located. The other two suspects were arrested and taken into custody.

The female admitted they had planned the theft and to several prior thefts from the same store. The three subjects are suspected of several thefts of meat and alcohol in recent weeks from the location. Both have extensive prior criminal history.

Vandalism

November 10 at 6:59 p.m., vandalism was reported in the area of California and Cypress. Green spray paint was used to write graffiti on a residential wall. Three male Black subjects were observed tagging the wall with a spray can; however, they were not located. The investigation is continuing.

Grand Theft Auto

November 11 at 3:00 a.m., a blue, 1989 Toyota Camry was stolen by unknown suspects. The reporting party saw the vehicle being driven away toward the City of Arcadia. Officers made an area search, but were unable to locate the vehicle. Investigation continuing.

Residential Burglary

November 11 at 7:29 p.m., a burglary was reported in the 200 block of North Encinitas. The victim left his home on November 9 at 9:00 p.m. in the evening and returned at 7:15 p.m. on November 11 to discover his backdoor had been broken into and items had been taken. Four firearms, one laptop, and a tablet were taken. The investigation is continuing.

Battery Report

November 11 at 9:14 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a hospital regarding a female victim who was battered by her adult son. The victim stated she was punched by her son, who had recently been kicked out of a sober living home. The son also pushed the victim's boyfriend during the attack. The victim sustained a fractured nose. A wanted person entry for felony battery was made into the system for the suspect. Investigation continuing.

Attempt Burglary

November 13 at 11:09 a.m., an attempt burglary was reported in the 600 block of Laurel Lane. Neighbors witnessed a suspect coming out of a residence on Laurel Lane. It initially appeared that the suspect was carrying a laptop. The suspect was chased away and the neighbors called police. Containment was set up and the area was searched on foot and by air, with no results. The investigation continues. The home owner responded and determined there was no loss.

Vehicle Burglary

November 13 at 6:35 p.m., police responded to the report of a vehicle burglary that occurred in a business parking lot in the 700 block of East Huntington. The passenger side window was smashed and a purse that was left in the vehicle was stolen. The investigation is continuing.

Special Enforcement Team Activity

Possession of a Controlled Substance - Suspect Arrested

November 8, Special Enforcement Team officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle near the 200 block of East Cherry. The driver and vehicle were searched, and the driver was arrested for possession of cocaine. The vehicle was stored.

Support Monrovia's Boys & Girls Club

Support Monrovia's Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills (600 S. Shamrock) on Nov. 17, 4-8 p.m. by attending a free Festival of Trees kick-off at The Promenade at Westfield Santa Anita. Santa arrives by fire truck at 4:30 p.m., a drawing for a $500 Westfield gift card, kid activities include cookie decorating, holiday photo frame craft, color your own Hanukkah magnets, snowflake ornaments, holiday coloring books, glitter tattoo artist, wax hand making, and a balloon artist. Pasadena Symphony & POPs will provide entertainment. Plus, gingerbread cookies, hot chocolate and hot apple cider.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's AeroVironment Gets US Patent on Hydrogen Airplane

Monrovia's AeroVironment has been granted a U.S. patent on a hydrogen powered aircraft. http://goo.gl/UtwLf

- Brad Haugaard

Goodbye Message from Assemblyman Anthony Portantino

Retiring Assemblyman Anthony Portantino, who represents part of Monrovia, writes:

Dear Friends,

For the past six years, it has been my honor to represent the diverse and unique communities that make up the best Assembly District in California. I have worked hard to expand educational opportunities, keep our communities safe and hold state government accountable. It has been a learning experience every day and I couldn't have done it without you.

I am proud to say that throughout my time in the Legislature, I had 38 bills signed into law and I remain committed to helping in any way I can. Look for me at council meetings and on the soccer field, helping to preserve our open spaces and leading the charge for affordable higher education for all Californians.

My time with the California State Assembly ends November 30, and a new chapter begins. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been able to represent you. My wife, Ellen and I, and our daughters Sofia and Bella feel blessed to be a part of this wonderful community. I want to take a moment to wish you the best and to thank you for all that you have done to make the 44th Assembly District a special place to live.

Happy holidays and warmest thoughts for a healthy and happy New Year.

Anthony Portantino

Gold Line Bridge Almost Done

Gold Line spokesman Habib Balian writes:

"The Gold Line Bridge Construction will be complete in just one month. The Construction Authority and Skanska are focusing on final bridge details including the basket reeds, barrier and retaining walls, lighting and landscaping. Overall, the bridge is coming together as envisioned and will only be enhanced by the completion of these final details....

"As mentioned previously, another significant project element is the $160 million Gold Line Operations Campus in Monrovia being built to accommodate Metro's light rail vehicle fleet. With demolition now complete at the 24-acre site and grading underway, FTC crews are focused on completing the material removal, relocating utilities, and preparing to mass grade the largest single project element of the Foothill Extension project."

- Brad Haugaard

Helping for Thanksgiving | Busy Saturday | The Baptists | Fantastic Sams

~ Foothill Unity Center Thanksgiving Packing Day, LA County Arboretum; various days. For volunteer info call Raina at (626)358-3486, or email volunteer@foothillunitycenter.org.

~ Nov. 17, Monrovia Library's Thanksgiving Book Feast for ages 4 years through 5th grade. Stories, songs, craft, film, snacks and more. 2 p.m. in the Libaray. Info: 256-8274

~ Nov. 17, Monrovia Library teen program, Hunger Games Challenge. 6th-12th graders only, come dressed as a tribute, join a district; test mental and physical skills in Hunger Games trivia and challenges. 7-9 p.m. Info: 256-8274

~ Nov. 17 and 18, Free electronic waste recycling at Monrovia Park N Ride (corner of S. Myrtle & W. Pomona Avenues) 9 a.m.-3 p.m. For more info call (909) 591-8408, visit www.attanrecyclingcorp.com , or call the Monrovia Chamber at (626)358-1159

~ First Baptist Church (223 South Encinitas) will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a re-dedication service on Nov. 24 at 4 p.m. To RSVP or for info, call 359-4533 or www.firstbaptistchurchmonrovia.com

~ Second Baptist Church (925 South Shamrock) will hold its annual Thanksgiving dinner and food drive on Nov. 20, noon to 2 p.m. Info: 358-2136

~ Fantastic Sams (barber) will be opening soon at the Pavillions shopping area. I saw the "Coming Soon" sign.

Source: Thanks to Becky Shevlin for the events.

- Brad Haugaard

Editorial Supports School Decision in Cheerleader Prank

The San Gabriel Valley Tribune agrees with the Monrovia High administration and argues that the cheerleader prank went too far. http://goo.gl/kRu0e

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Bear on Hillcrest

This bear thing is beginning to lose its novelty. I took this on Hillcrest today, just east of Myrtle. Baby bear was just across the street so I assume this is mamma bear. As you can see, the parks folks try to chase her back into the hills. Sorry for the lousy quality. I could have moved closer but figured discretion was the better part of valor.

- Brad Haugaard

Freeway Closure Tonight

Full closure of the 210 eastbound starting with up to three lanes closed at 10 p.m. tonight, full closure at 11 p.m., and ending at 5 a.m. For the removal of bridge construction materials.

- Brad Haugaard

Residential Burglary

Police are searching now for a suspect on a residential burglary in north Monrovia, around Canyon and Ridgeside. Marked and unmarked cars and copter.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Bear vs. Pepper Spray

Video: Bear gets a blast of pepper spray. http://goo.gl/aaCIg

- Brad Haugaard

Republican Congressional Candidate May Leave California

Republican David Miller -- who ran against winner Grace Napolitano to represent the 32nd Congressional District, which includes Monrovia south of Hillcrest/Grand/E. Greystone -- is considering leaving California. He writes in the Letters section of the Star-News that as a small businessman he is paying about 70% of his income in various taxes, which he says is too much. (Can't link to it because the letter does not appear to be on line yet.) Update - Here's the link: http://goo.gl/YoQdd

- Brad Haugaard