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Geyser At Monrovia's Monroe Elementary School

There are some postings on Facebook showing a large geyser (maybe going 60 feet up) next to Monroe Elementary School from what is apparently a broken water pipe.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Newspaper Open House

The Monrovia-based San Gabriel Valley Newspaper Group - which includes the Star-News and San Gabriel Valley Tribune - will hold an open house at its new office from 6-8 p.m. on Oct. 28. at 605 E. Huntington Drive. Connect with editors and reporters, meet new staff members and hear about new journalism initiatives. Refreshments will be served. http://goo.gl/XUEw0H

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Man Dies in Hiking Accident

24-year-old Monrovian Christian Agudelo died after falling from a cliff in the Angeles National Forest. http://goo.gl/9NsBo3

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's AeroVironment Gets Army Contract

Monrovia's AeroVironment has been awarded an $18.5 million Army contract to supply drones, drone parts and servicing to foreign militaries. http://goo.gl/7fkQ5K

- Brad Haugaard

Safety Ambassadors at Monrovia Train Station



Metro Gold Line has stationed safety ambassadors at some of the new stations, including Monrovia, to prepare local communities for more frequent test trains. There are also safety ambassadors at Arcadia, Duarte and Azusa stations. They show people the proper way to cross rail intersections and hand out information on Metro services and programs and take feedback from the community.

Train Safety Tips:

  • Use designated crossing areas and wait for the walk/crossing signal.
  • If the gates are down, do not attempt to go around them.
  • If a train is coming, be sure to stay behind the yellow warning stripes.
  • Always stop, look, and listen for trains before crossing the tracks, and be sure to look both ways.
  • Never race a train to a crossing.
  • Never climb railroad vehicles or walk on the tracks.
  • Before starting across the tracks, be sure there’s room to get completely across.

Source: Metro press release

- Brad Haugaard

Rehab Plans for Old Monrovia Train Station; Water Use; Community Feud; Neighborhood Movie; Etc.

A few items from City Manager Oliver Chi's weekly update ( http://goo.gl/0NXiEf ):

~ The city has received proposals for how to rehab the old Monrovia Train station to be part of the new Gold Line station area. City staff is considering the proposals and will propose one of the bidders for council consideration in November.

~ This September Monrovia used 33.8% less water than in September 2013.

~ The city is going to install a better audio and video system for the City Council Chambers. http://goo.gl/hJOZqf

~ Monrovia Public Library Foundation will host a "Community Feud" fundraiser on Sunday, Nov. 8, from 1-3 p.m. Build your own team of co-workers, friends, or family members, or just watch. For details call Library at 256-8274, or visit MPLF website at http://www.monrovialibraryfoundation.org .

~ Calvary Chapel Monrovia is renting space in Library Park from 6-10 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 16 for a free screening of "The Neighborhood," a documentary about four gang members who turned their lives around and all became pastors. Also, food and music.

~ Oops. Buildings at the City Annex need work, but they are painted with old, now illegal, lead paint, which must be removed using special safe techniques.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Suspect Arrested in Beating; Bicyclist Without a Light Arrested; Violence Against Girlfriend; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for October 8-11. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Traffic Stop/Resisting and Delaying a Peace Officer – Suspect Arrested
October 9 at 8:34 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the area of California and Cypress when he observed a bicyclist riding at night without a light. When the officer attempted to detain the subject, he fled into the backyard of a nearby residence. Officers quickly set up containment of the area, and the Foothill Air Support Team helicopter responded to assist. The suspect was found hiding inside of a trashcan in the yard. The suspect was arrested and taken to a hospital for medical clearance for a puncture wound he received jumping over a fence. The suspect was determined to be a juvenile. He was medically cleared, booked for the charges, and then released on a citation to appear in court. The juvenile was released to the custody of his mother.

Welfare Check/Public Intoxication – Suspect Arrested
October 9 at 10:17 p.m., officers were dispatched to Palm and Ivy regarding the welfare check of a subject lying on the ground. An intoxicated male was found lying flat on his back. Monrovia Fire Department paramedics responded to the scene to medically evaluate the subject. The subject was determined to be intoxicated. He was arrested for public intoxication and taken into custody. He was held for sobering.

Domestic Violence/Kidnapping – Suspect Arrested
October 10 at 4:01 a.m., officers responded to the report of a domestic violence incident in progress in the 200 block of East Los Angeles. The reporting party said the suspect and victim were leaving the area in a vehicle. Officers conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle as it was leaving the location. The male suspect and female victim are boyfriend and girlfriend. The victim told officers that her boyfriend grabbed her and put his hand over her mouth, causing a visible scratch to her face. When the victim tried to break free, he threw her down onto the grass. The suspect then picked up the victim and forced her into the vehicle against her will, causing her to hit her head. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody. He was held pending his court appearance.

Battery with Great Bodily Injury – Suspect Arrested
October 11 at 7:38 a.m., an officer responded to a hospital regarding a victim that had been battered during the night at Shamrock and Olive. The victim was involved in an altercation and was extremely intoxicated at the time of the incident. In the morning, he went to the hospital because of eye swelling and head pain. His recollections were vague, but he was diagnosed with a fractured eye socket and a minor bleed in his brain by the medical staff. A detailed investigation identified the suspect, who was located and admitted to striking the victim. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
October 11 at 5:32 p.m., a domestic violence incident was reported in the 200 block of North Shamrock. During an argument, the suspect placed his hand on the victim's neck causing a minor injury. The suspect left the residence before police arrived, but he was located at a park in the 700 block of East Lemon. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
October 12 at 1:36 a.m., police received a call reporting a vehicle that was driving erratically in the area of Mountain and the 210 Freeway. Officers arrived and found the vehicle parked in a business parking lot in the 1600 block of South Mountain. The occupant in the vehicle was obviously intoxicated and admitted to driving while drunk. The driver was arrested, taken into custody, and held for a sobering period.

Former Monrovia Mayor Bob Bartlett Has Died

Former Monrovia Mayor Bob Bartlett died Sunday. He served as mayor for 13 years ( http://goo.gl/Jp322l ). Both current mayor, Tom Adams, and former mayor, Mary Ann Lutz, posted their condolences on Facebook.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Representative's Franchise Bill Signed Into Law

Legislation by Assembly Majority Leader Chris Holden to protect the investment of small business franchisees by strengthening their rights has been signed into law by Governor Jerry Brown. AB 525 protects franchise owners from unreasonable interference by corporations ensuring franchisees can operate their businesses, transfer the franchise to a qualified heir, and renew their contracts. Source: Holden press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Interfaith Thanksgiving Program | Country Music & BBQ | Kids Concert

~ All Community Interfaith Thanksgiving Program, "Hand in Hand: Together We Must Overcome," Thursday, Nov. 19 at 7 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Church, 726 Shamrock Ave., Monrovia. Various faith traditions in Monrovia coming together in prayers, songs and music. An interfaith choir will sing. Pot-luck finger food reception. For information, call 215-2704

~ Stompin' Country Music and Western Line Dancing and BBQ Supper, Saturday, Nov. 14 6 to 9 p.m. at St Luke's Episcopal Church, 122 S. California Ave. Line dancing cued by local caller/instructor Bill Berry. Singer/banjoist Pam Kaye, dance group The Tap Chicks, a ukulele group led by Kelly Lauer, guitar duets by Kevin Ashe and Les Eisel, and more. Proceeds benefit parish community service efforts and the building fund. Order $25 tickets soon at brownpapertickets.com.

~ San Gabriel Valley Choir Company Kids in Concert at St Luke's Episcopal Church, 122 S. California Ave. Saturday, Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m. Tickets $15, Students/Seniors $10, and Kids under 12 are $5 ($20/$12/$5 at the door).

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia School Board to Consider How to Educate Expelled Students, Etc.

California law requires school districts educate expelled students, so the Monrovia School Board will consider at its next meeting (agenda: https://goo.gl/tTMzU1 ) adopting the county's plan, here: https://goo.gl/FF8RHw

The board will also consider proclaiming October 18-24 as America's Safe Schools Week, and October 23-31 as "Red Ribbon Week - Respect Yourself. Be Drug Free."

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's Bethel AME Church Holding Sock and Blanket Drive

Bethel Monrovia AME Church is holding a Thanks-Living sock and blanket drive to help those who need help in town. The kick-off service is Oct. 11 at 11 a.m. and the church (at 148 W Lime Ave., at the southeast corner of Lime and Primrose) will receive items through Nov. 14. For more information contact lchurchmonrovia@gmail.com or call 930-1120

- Brad Haugaard

Open Water Board Meetings | Help Monrovia's Foothill Unity Center

~ A bill by Assemblymember Chris Holden to expand access to mutual water companies' board meetings through teleconference and internet streaming was signed by Governor Jerry Brown today. AB 1077 strengthens the Mutual Water Company Open Meeting Act by requiring all shareholders to be guaranteed, at a minimum, the right to teleconference into any meeting and prohibiting the water company's board from meeting exclusively in executive session. Source: Holden press release

~ If you would like to host a food drive to help Monrovia's Foothill Unity Center provide food for low-income families in the San Gabriel Valley, please email Albert at albert@foothillunitycenter.org

- Brad Haugaard

Dinner at Cafe LuMar


Dinner last night at Cafe LuMar, a little Croatian restaurant on the south side of Colorado half a block east of Myrtle. I got the schnitzel ($16.95) and it was excellent! As was the Croatian beer ($6.50). Everything was very fresh. It came with spinach, mashed potatoes (covered by the schnitzel here) and a tangy cabbage salad. I've also had the goulash here, and my wife loves the crepes. It's all excellent and the service is very pleasant.

I can't resist telling part of my schnitzel story. I've had quite a few schnitzels in Germany, but one of the best I ever had was in Osaka, Japan. I won't tell the whole story. Too long.
- Brad Haugaard 

100 Today and Rain Next Friday?

Possible 100 degrees today, but 40% chance of rain next Friday: http://goo.gl/VnR5SB

- Brad Haugaard

Bear | College Access | Parking Lot Sale | Evensong

~ Another Monrovia bear video. http://goo.gl/uRAKbt

~ Governor Brown today signed Assembly Majority Leader Chris Holden's AB 288 College and Career Access Pathways Act to allow high school students, especially those in under-served communities, greater access to college courses and career tech classes at both high school and college campuses. Holden represents Monrovia. Source: press release

~ Parking Lot Sale with Monrovia League and Rebuilding Together Saturday, October 17, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The two organizations will raise funds by selling clothing, household items and more. Proceeds will help fund the League's support of local organizations and Rebuilding Together's rehabilitation projects for low-income homeowners, particularly the elderly and those with disabilities. At St Luke's Episcopal Church, 122 S. California Ave.

~ Twelfth Annual Men's Evensong Invitational Sunday, October 18, 4 p.m. Sung by the choir of St. Luke's with guest singers from many other parishes. An offering will be taken, and a wine and cheese reception will follow. At St Luke's Episcopal Church, 122 S. California Ave.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Camping in the Park; Truck Vs. Fire Hydrant; Intoxication; Ex-Boyfriend Takes Car; Ex-Felon With Ammunition; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for October 5-7. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 383 service events, resulting in 68 investigations.

Residential Burglary
October 5 at 9:36 p.m., a burglary alarm was activated at a house in the 200 block of Bradoaks. Officers arrived and discovered a backdoor open with the window in it shattered. They surrounded the house, then made entry; however, no suspects were located inside or in the surrounding area. The home had been ransacked and evidence was collected, but the loss is unknown until the owner can inventory the property.

Shoplifting – Suspect Arrested
October 6 at 7:36 p.m., officers were dispatched to a grocery store in the 100 block of west Foothill, where a 25-year-old male suspect was being detained by store security for shoplifting. The suspect had entered the store and placed merchandise in his pockets. He went to a register and paid for a box of tea, but not for what he had hidden in his pockets. As he left the store, he was stopped by store security. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Camping in a Park after Closing – Suspects Arrested
October 6 at 11:41 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 900 block of South California when he observed a male and female subject camping in the park after the park was closed. The male and female had both been issued citations in the past for the same violation; however, they continued to refuse to leave the park. They were both issued citations to appear in court on the violation and escorted out of the park.

Traffic Collision
October 7 at 10:00 a.m., a semi-truck with a trailer was making a turning movement in the 300 block of West Maple. The driver cut the corner short and struck a fire hydrant, causing the water pipe to burst. The Fire Department and City Public Works crews were able to stop the flow of water, but significant damage was caused to the sidewalk near the hydrant.

Vandalism
October 7 at 3:25 p.m., officers were called to a residence in the 100 block of Norumbega for a vandalism incident that had just occurred. An intoxicated female who had been living at the residence for two weeks was involved in a verbal argument with the owner of the home. The female became angry and kicked a stereo speaker, causing damage. The owner of the property completed a Private Person's Arrest for the female and she was arrested and taken into custody. After sobering, she was released on citation to appear in court on the charge.

Warrant – Suspect Arrested
October 7 at 3:56 p.m., an officer stopped a vehicle for a vehicle code violation. A computer check revealed the driver had an outstanding warrant for her arrest. She was arrested and taken into custody for the warrant.

Fight in Progress
October 7 at 4:06 p.m., officers were dispatched to a reported fight in progress in the area of Mayflower and Olive. Upon arrival, one female juvenile was being taken to the hospital for minor injuries and a second female juvenile was no longer in the area. The investigation revealed the two subjects had texted each other and agreed to meet at the park to fight. The subject at the scene was uncooperative and refused to provide an account of what occurred. The parents of the minor signed a refusal to prosecute form. The investigation continues to identify the second suspect in this case.

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
October 8 at 12:37 a.m., police were notified by a citizen of a possible drunk driver in a Mitsubishi at Myrtle and Lemon. The vehicle was located by an officer at Lemon and Ivy. The driver failed to stop for the stop sign at Lemon and Ivy and was stopped by the officer. The officer contacted the driver and determined he was intoxicated. Field sobriety tests were conducted, and the driver was arrested for driving under the influence. He was held for a sobering.

Grand Theft Auto
October 8 at 2:08 a.m., officers responded to the 100 block of West Walnut, as a resident reported her ex-boyfriend had just stolen her vehicle. He had stolen her car keys a week prior after an argument. She reported the theft to the police, but the suspect had fled the scene and was not apprehended. The victim was inside her home at 2:08 a.m. and heard the engine to her vehicle start. She ran outside and saw her ex-boyfriend driving away with her car without her permission. She called police. Officers arrived and searched the area for the suspect, but he had fled the area in the vehicle and was not located. The vehicle is a 2010, four-door, black Ford Flex. The vehicle was entered into the stolen vehicle system, and the suspect was entered into the wanted persons system.

Detective Bureau Case Update - Possession of a Controlled Substance/Receiving Stolen Property/Ex-Felon with Ammunition/Ex-Felon with a Firearm
On October 2, 2015, a suspicious subject was seen in the 600 block of West Palm unloading property. Monrovia Police Department’s Special Enforcement Team established surveillance of the location and observed the minivan leaving the area being driven by the female suspect. They stopped the van and noticed property in the van. The driver could not account for why she was in possession of the property. They also recovered ammunition for a shotgun and a pistol in the vehicle. The female suspect was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, receiving stolen property, and ex-felon with ammunition.

A search warrant was written and served on October 3, 2015, at 7:00 a.m. on the residence, as the ammunition and stolen property was recovered in the vehicle. The firearm was recovered, and a separate individual, the resident, was arrested for possessing the firearm, as he is a convicted felon.

100 Degrees in Monrovia? | Golf Tournament

Friday, Oct. 8, could get up to 100 degrees. http://goo.gl/VnR5SB

~ Monrovian Robert Parry reports that the Duarte Rotary Club is seeking golfers for its 29th Annual Golf Tournament next Thursday, October 15, at the Rancho Duarte Golf Course starting at 1 p.m. Proceeds to benefit literacy programs. For details contact Brian Villalobos, bcvillal@lasd.org or Robert Parry, rcjparry@yahoo.com

- Brad Haugaard

Feral Cat Neutering | Choral Company Presentation

~ On October 15 and 16, the Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA will hold a free spay and neuter clinic for feral cats residing in the shelter's nine service cities, which includes Monrovia. To make an appointment, email snip@pasadenahumane.org or call 626.792.7151 ext. 166.

~ San Gabriel Valley Choral Company Presents "Night, Sleep, Death, and the Stars" on Saturday, October 24, at 7:30 p.m. Featured selections include Erlkönig by Schubert, Jabberwocky by Pottle, and Night, Sleep Death and the Stars by Gawthrop. Also solo and ensemble selections by Mozart, Bach, Fauré. Rev. Neil Tadken as narrator in Saul by Hovland. Tickets: $15 advance, $10 seniors/students; $20 at the door. www.svccsingers.org

- Brad Haugaard

Feral Cat Neutering | Choral Company Presentation

~ On October 15 and 16, the Pasadena Humane Society & SPCA will hold a free spay and neuter clinic for feral cats residing in the shelter's nine service cities, which includes Monrovia. To make an appointment, email snip@pasadenahumane.org or call 626.792.7151 ext. 166.

~ San Gabriel Valley Choral Company Presents "Night, Sleep, Death, and the Stars" on Saturday, October 24, at 7:30 p.m. Featured selections include "Erlkonig" by Franz Schubert, "Jabberwocky" by Sam Pottle, "Night, Sleep, Death, and the Stars" by Daniel Gawthrop, and "Saul," by Egil Hovland and narrated by St. Luke's Reverend Tadken. Tickets at the door are $20 ($15 seniors/students); advance tickets are $15 ($10 seniors/students). Available at http://www.eventbrite.com or by check (SGVCC; P.O. Box 2225; Monrovia, CA 91017). Donations to SGVCC are accepted online and by check.

- Brad Haugaard