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Monrovia's Meridian Restaurant Now Called Veranda

Meridian, the Mediterranean-style restaurant at the corner of Myrtle and Lime, has apparently been reborn as "Veranda Mediterranean Cuisine" ( http://goo.gl/TE1atr ) and is appearing at the Development Review Committee to get an okay on its proposed new sign. http://goo.gl/lPGBCX

- Brad Haugaard

Water Restrictions Coming to Monrovia

At its next meeting, the Monrovia City Council will likely declare that the city has a "Water Shortage Emergency" and impose Phase 1 of the city's emergency plan. This means ...

1. No person shall hose wash any sidewalk, walkway, driveway, parking area or other paved surface, except as required for sanitary purposes.

2. Washing of motor vehicles shall be done only with a hand held bucket or a hose equipped with a positive shut-off nozzle.

3. No water shall be used to clean, fill or maintain levels in decorative fountains (water features) unless the water is part of a recycling (recirculating) system.

4. No restaurant, hotel, café, cafeteria, or other place where food is sold, served, or offered for sale shall serve drinking water to any customer unless expressly requested by that customer.

5. All customers shall promptly repair all leaks from indoor and outdoor plumbing fixtures within 48 hours of discovery.

6. All lawns, landscape or other turf area shall be watered down not more than every third day, with the watering only during the hours between 5:00 PM and 10:00 AM.

7. No person or customer shall cause or allow water to run off landscaped areas onto adjoining streets, sidewalks, or other paved areas due to incorrectly directed or maintained sprinklers or as the result of excessive watering.

Details here: http://goo.gl/OB9JZ3

Comment: Unlike the plastic grocery bag ban, which I continue to regard as an intrusive imposition by the city in response to a nonexistant problem, I believe the water shortage is very real and even though these measures are also an imposition, I believe they are necessary and I support the city on this. I bike in the mountains above Monrovia and while there is still water flowing in the lower part of Monrovia Canyon Park, all three of the feeder streams between there and White Saddle are bone dry, and have been so for a long time.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Council: Water Emergency; City Manager; Police Contract

At its August 5 meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/huu3Ii ), the Monrovia City Council will ...

~ Consider declaring a "Water Shortage Emergency" and implement a water conservation plan.

~ Continue, in closed session, talking about getting a new permanent city manager.

~ Consider declaring that the city and police union have reached an impasse and unilaterally impose the city's "last, best and final offer" for fiscal year 2014-15, as it did for fiscal year 2013-14. http://goo.gl/iKoCkP

- Brad Haugaard

Apparently No Poached Bear in Monrovia

A reader wrote to ask about a rumor he heard that a poacher killed a bear here in Monrovia and took her paws, leaving her cubs to dig in the trash. I spoke with a couple people at the Police Department, and nobody there has heard of any such incident, so unless someone knows something more specific, I think the rumor is incorrect.
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Bear in Pools; Drugs; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 28-30. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 357 service events, resulting in 58 investigations.

Possession of Stolen Property / Possession of a Controlled Substance / Warrants / Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor – Suspects Arrested
On July 29 at 9:27 a.m., while on patrol in the 900 block of East Huntington, officers observed a suspicious vehicle that had indicators of being stolen. The car was parked in a motel parking lot. Through investigation, officers learned the car belonged to a subject in one of the motel rooms. The officers made contact with several subjects in the room, including one minor, and several arrests were made. The owner of the vehicle in the parking lot, a male adult, was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. Two female adults were arrested for warrants, possession of stolen property, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. The minor was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and was taken into protective custody.

Stolen Vehicle
On July 29 at 6:48 p.m., a vehicle was reported stolen from the 400 block of West Huntington. The victim parked his vehicle in a business parking lot and went into work. When he returned to his vehicle after work, it was gone. He said he did not lock his vehicle and he does not know who would take the vehicle. The vehicle is a black, 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee. The investigation is continuing.

Bear Incident
On July 30 at 1:32 p.m., police received three calls from residents in the 500 block of Terrado Drive, 500 block of Sombrero Road, and the 600 block of Vaquero Road reporting a bear in their yards. The bear was moving from yard to yard and jumping in pools in the area. For safety reasons, officers asked the people to leave the area and the bear eventually retreated back into the foothills.

Stolen Vehicle Recovered
On July 30 at 8:56 a.m., police received a call reporting a possible stolen vehicle parked in a parking lot in the 800 block of East Olive. There was a screw driver outside the vehicle and items from inside were strewn on the ground around the vehicle. The vehicle was reported stolen from Hacienda Heights. The vehicle was recovered.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
On July 31 at 4:02 a.m., a resident from the 400 block of Monrovista called police to report a male subject yelling in his backyard. The subject was yelling that someone was trying to kill him. He kept repeating this and then attempted to get into the resident’s backdoor. Officers responded and located the subject. After investigation, it was determined the subject was under the influence of a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Action on Film Festival Coming Back to Monrovia


The Action on Film festival is coming to Monrovia's Krikorian Theater again, this August 22-30 ( http://goo.gl/nb7zVC ), and I'm starting to get press releases for the films. This is "Daisy's", by first-time director, Ciera Danielle. It follows Daisy, a young woman from an abusive past hitchhiking to Nashville to become a "major music sensation."
 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Station Square Update


 The City of Monrovia presented a progress report on the Station Square project to the community Wednesday night at the Library. Station Square will be the new train station and accompanying developments.

Highlights:

~ The development includes the Gold Line station, a three-story parking garage for 350 vehicles, a plaza, the old Santa Fe depot, a promenade, and a park.

~ Construction begins this September. It should be completed at the end of 2015, and the Gold Line should begin operation in early 2016.

~ It is the largest public works project in Monrovia's history.

- Brad Haugaard

Produce in the Park Saturday

Produce in the Park this Saturday, August 2, 9-11 a.m. in Library Park, at the corner of Lime and Myrtle. Share your home-grown produce and pick up some of your neighbors' extra veggies.

- Brad Haugaard

Interview with Homeless Father and Daughter in Monrovia's Library Park

Video interview with father and daughter who have been homeless for four years and living in Library Park. http://goo.gl/r2L0u6

- Brad Haugaard

Horse Racing Film to Benefit Monrovia Rotary Service Projects

Action on Film will present "Behind the Gate", a documentary film which examines the changes in the horse racing industry. Narrated by Joe Pesci, the film also features some of the biggest names in the industry, many of them local to the San Gabriel Valley, including Oscar De La Hoya, Bob Baffert, Doug O'Neill, Laffit Pincay and Gary Stevens, and many others.

The screening on Saturday August 23, 2014 at 4pm at the Krikorian Theater in Monrovia will benefit the Monrovia Rotary Club's community service projects, including Santa Clothes, Essay, Music & Speech Contests, Camp sponsorships for 8th and 11th graders, Interact Club at Monrovia High School, as well as contributing to worthy local organizations such as Boys & Girls Club, "Yes" Program through City of Monrovia, Girl and Boy Scouts, Santa Anita Family YMCA and many more. See a more complete listing at http://www.monroviarotary.com

Tickets may be purchased here - http://goo.gl/gPFMTw - for $15/person.

Source: Press release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Librarian Writes Book

Monrovia Library's Elizabeth Schneider, librarian for teens, has written a book about putting on teen programming in libraries called, "Create, Relate, & Pop @ the Library." At the July 24 Library Board meeting, she was recognized for her work and did a mini book signing. City of Monrovia Photo.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Nighttime Bedroom Pants Burglar; Intoxication; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 24-27. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events. 

Commercial Burglary – Suspect Arrested
On July 24 at 4:01 p.m., officers were on patrol in the 100 block of West Foothill when they observed a male subject run out of a grocery store being chased by store loss prevention officers. The subject ran toward a van that was parked south of the business with its sliding door open. The male driver of the vehicle and the subject who ran out of the store were both detained, and the stolen property was recovered. After investigation, it was determined the two suspects had conspired together to commit the burglary at the business. The suspects were arrested and taken into custody. 

Possession of Marijuana – Suspect Arrested
On July 25 at 10:03 p.m., an officer stopped a driver for a vehicle code violation at Mayflower and Diamond. As he approached the vehicle, he smelled the odor of marijuana from inside. During a pat-down search, one of the passengers was found to be in possession of marijuana. He was issued a citation to appear in court. 

Driving Under the Influence / Injury Traffic Collision
On July 26 at 12:11 a.m., officers responded to Foothill and El Nido regarding a vehicle that crashed into a light post. The driver was injured and was taken to a hospital for treatment. The officer saw signs of intoxication, and the driver admitted to having smoked honey oil. DUI Charges will be submitted to the court for filing. 

Drunk in Public / Possession of Marijuana – Suspect Arrested
On July 26 at 12:36 a.m., officers responded to the 600 block of South Myrtle regarding an intoxicated female lying by the curb. The female was accompanied by her boyfriend and they were waiting for a cab. The officer arrived and determined the subject was too intoxicated to care for herself as she could not stand. She was arrested and taken into custody for sobering. During a pat-down search, she was found to be in possession of marijuana. 

Residential Burglary
On July 26 at 4:16 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of South Encinitas called to report his house had been burglarized. He stated that the crime had occurred between midnight and 3:00 a.m. He was asleep, and awoke to find that his pants, which contained his wallet, camera and a flash drive, were missing from the chair where he had placed them. He noticed that his bedroom window was missing the screen and he called police. Nothing else seemed to have been taken. The investigation is continuing. 

Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
On July 26 at 5:43 a.m., a caller reported a vehicle partially blocking the southbound lane of Bradoaks at Greystone. Officers responded and, after investigation, determined the driver was intoxicated. He was arrested for driving under the influence and was taken into custody.

Drunk in Public / Possession of Tobacco Products / Located Missing – One Suspect Arrested
On July 27 at 12:17 a.m., officers responded to the 400 block of West Olive regarding subjects possibly fighting. The officer arrived and saw two subjects walking; one of the subjects was staggering. The subjects were detained. The subject who was staggering was found to be a juvenile. He was extremely intoxicated and was taken to a hospital. A computer check revealed the juvenile had been reported missing four days ago out of Temple City. Charges will be submitted to the court for filing on the juvenile. The second subject, an adult who was also intoxicated, was arrested and taken into custody for sobering.

Disturbing Subjects / Warrants – Suspects Arrested
On July 28 at 2:42 a.m., officers responded to a call reporting disturbing subjects at an apartment in the 800 block of West Duarte. A male and female were detained. A computer check revealed that both subjects had outstanding warrants for their arrest. Both were arrested and taken into custody. 

Lawsuit Filed Against Monrovia Company

A lawsuit has been filed against Monrovia's STAAR Surgical over alleged violations of Federal securities laws. http://goo.gl/sE52TL

- Brad Haugaard

Weekend Music in Monrovia

~ There will be an Art Walk in Old Town Monrovia from 7-10 p.m. today. Art on the sidewalks. The Mill Creek Boys (traditional bluegrass) and the Kattywompus String Band (folk/international) will be performing.

~ Tomorrow, Sunday, July 27, The Answer (classic rock), will perform at the band shell in Library Park, 7-8:30 p.m. Bring a chair or towel.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia's Merengue Moving; Ale House Coming




Merengue Bakery and Cafe, currently on Colorado just east of Myrtle, will be moving onto Myrtle, just across from the theater, in the space formerly occupied by Allure, according to a Merengue employee, and the current Merengue will be replaced with 38 Degree Ale House. 

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Wins Football Shootout

Monrovia beats Buena Park to win SGV football shootout. http://goo.gl/XIb69W

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Blaze Pizza


Lunch at the new Blaze Pizza, in the Pavilions shopping area at Foothill and Myrtle. Nice and cool inside! Beautiful decor. Kinda loud and chattery in a friendly way. Got the BBQ CHKN (chicken, if you didn't guess) for $7.65 and an iced tea for $1.95. Thin crust, almost crackly. Build your own or get a pre-set one. They come in one size and you can get whatever toppings you like for the same price. Fresh and tasty!

- Brad Haugaard 

17 to 38 Homeless in Monrovia | Station Square Open House

~ A report on homelessness in Monrovia in the Star-News. There are "between 17 and 38 homeless" in the city. http://goo.gl/4R5h6g

~ Station Square Open House on Wednesday, July 30 at the Library. http://goo.gl/92dfap

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Stolen Vehicle Door Handle; Sleeping It Off in Her Font Yard; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 21-23. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 394 service events, resulting in 71 investigations.

Vehicle Tampering
On July 21 at 6:53 p.m., an officer responded to the 200 block of West Walnut regarding a vehicle tampering. The victim went to her vehicle which was parked in the carport area and realized the driver side door handle had been removed from her vehicle. Nothing appeared to be taken except the door handle. The investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
On July 21 at 9:10 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the area of Wildrose and Mountain regarding a male suspect sleeping in her yard. The resident said the suspect appeared to have been drinking. The suspect drove his vehicle to the front of her residence, parked his vehicle and then got out and fell down into her yard. Officers determined the suspect had been involved in a traffic collision and driving under the influence of alcohol. The suspect was arrested.

Residential Burglary
On July 22 at 12:18 a.m., dispatch received alarm activation from a residence in the 100 block of Rose Lane. Officers contained the residence and eventually cleared the home. A rear window was broken and the back door window was shattered. The door was locked and it does not appear entry was made by the suspect. The victim was notified and arrived home. The investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
On July 23 at 9:30 p.m. an officer stopped a driver in the area of California and Huntington for a traffic violation. Upon contacting the driver he displayed signs of intoxication. Field sobriety tests were conducted and it was determined the driver was driving under the influence of alcohol and was arrested. The passenger in the vehicle had an outstanding warrant for driving under the influence of alcohol and was arrested.

Monrovia's Foothill Unity Center Collecting for Back-to-School

Monrovia-based Foothill Unity Center is collecting money to provide back-to-school supplies for children whose parents can't afford them. The Center reports that it expects to help 1,500 children grades K-12 at its 16th Back to School Distribution on August 5 at Santa Anita Park racetrack. To donate: http://goo.gl/10nf1g

- Brad Haugaard

Toasty in Monrovia Today; Disney Movie; Big Raffle Prize

~ 102 degrees. Really toasty hot in Monrovia today. http://goo.gl/UP7itf

~ Watch a Disney movie and sing Disney karaoke at the Library Community Room, today at 6 p.m. For teens sixth to 12th grade.

~ Monrovia Kiwanis Club and Chamber of Commerce are doing a "Wine and Dine" Raffle. Top prize is a gift basket that includes $100 giftcertificates to Rudy's Mexican Food, Bella Sera Trattoria. Elements Restaurant & Bar (at the Doubletree), Cafe LuMar, Sena on Myrtle, Jakes Roadhouse, and Wang's. Plus four tickets to this years A Taste of Old Town Monrovia on October 19th, plus 8 tickets to the Krikorian Monrovia Theatre, two Bottles of "Monrovia Station" wine from Wine of the Month Club, four Taste of Old Town wine glasses and more. The drawing is at the October 15th Monrovia Chamber Mixer at the Wine of the Month Club, but you need not be present to win. Raffle tickets are $10 each and you can get them at the Monrovia Chamber office (620 South Myrtle).

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Thrift Store Having 55%-Off Sale

Monrovia's Giving Hands Thrift Store, 925 W. Foothill, is having a 55%-off sale, 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. now through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

- Brad Haugaard

Story of Monrovia Family and Online Preschool

KPCC story about Monrovia parents whose child attends an online preschool. http://goo.gl/ys2b2k

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Restaurant Round-Up - Free Pizza!

The latest restaurant news:

~ Blaze Pizza - in the Pavilions shopping center - will open this Saturday, July 26, and if you follow the company on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram, you can get a free pizza from 11 a.m. to midnight that day. http://goo.gl/JlXTLw

~ Gem City Images reports that a new restaurant plans to open in the old Allure shop on Myrtle. http://goo.gl/mnfqRt

~ And finally, I reported on a new restaurant, called Le Gourmand, going in on Myrtle next to Sena. http://goo.gl/1y5Ofx

- Brad Haugaard

Trader Joe's Recalls Fruit

Monrovia-based Trader Joe's recalls some peaches, nectarines, plums and pluots. http://goo.gl/RS4Jcb

- Brad Haugaard

New Restaurant Coming to Monrovia - Le Gourmand

It appears a new restaurant will be going in right next to Sena restaurant, on its north side, at 407 S. Myrtle. The city's Development Review Committee (DRC) will be looking at the restaurant's proposed plans for outdoor seating at its July 23 meeting. No details on the restaurant in the agenda ( http://goo.gl/Zy6SDi ), but the applicant is Mark Houston, and there is a Mark and Jonnie Houston who operate several LA area restaurants, and of whom LA Weekly says, "the Houston brothers have been redefining L.A. nightlife" ( http://goo.gl/1LKAjn ). Here is Houston Hospitality's website ( http://goo.gl/tRZaVL ). Again, I'm not sure it's the same Mark Houston, but I'll try to check.

UPDATE: Thanks to Planning Division Manager, Craig Jimenez, who writes:

DRC is reviewing an outdoor seating permit for a new business named Le Gourmand. I haven’t seen a menu, but from what I understand, it will be an upscale cafĂ© and bakery that will also have a small retail component selling prepackaged foods.

The applicant, Mark Houston, is a Monrovia-based designer and contractor who is designing the interior.

- Brad Haugaard

Mountain Lion in Hills Above Monrovia

Photo of mountain lion near Camp Trask, above Monrovia.

Boy Scout dad, Mark D. Peters, writes about encountering a mountain lion near the Scouts' Camp Trask, in the hills right above Monrovia:

While Troop 551 went out for a hike and to work on their Leave No Trace award, they had a pair of eyes watching them, and when hiking back to camp, they came across large drag marks that crossed the road.

Over the edge 551 Troop leaders could see a freshly killed doe. Cub Master Terry Lopez alerted the Camp Master and Scout Master Bill Durini, Webelos Den Leader Erick Bonilla and Asst. Cub Master Mark Peters gathered up the Troop in a tight group and hiked back to camp.

Later I was able to get the shot and show it to the kids as not many of them have ever seen a mountain lion in the wild.

Cub Master Terry Lopez added that, "Unfortunately we had to stay in camp after discovering the Mountain Lion attack, no Saturday night hike, but we saw several fox around our camp...kept us occupied."
Cub Scout Degas Peters, Mark Peter's son.

Monrovia Police: Transient Charged With Theft; Burglary; Vandalism; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 17-20. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Commercial Burglary / Violation of Restraining Order – Suspect Arrested
On July 17 at 11:39 a.m., an officer responded to a business in the 100 block of West Foothill regarding a theft of items. The suspect fled the location prior to his arrival. Security officers observed the suspect sneak behind the stone pillars to the front of the store. The suspect was trying to covertly enter the location without being seen by employees. Once inside the store, a security officer witnessed the suspect grab several items and run out. Upon reviewing the surveillance video, the suspect was identified as one of our local transients that just served time in jail for committing thefts at the same location and served with a restraining order. The officer searched the area and located the suspect. The suspect was arrested for burglary and violation of restraining order.

Petty Theft With Prior – Suspect Identified
On July 17 at 12:20 p.m., an officer responded to the 700 block of South Myrtle regarding a bicycle theft. While the officer was reviewing the security video, he identified the suspect. The suspect was arrested prior to this investigation for another unrelated burglary. The suspect is currently in custody at the Los Angeles County Jail. The suspect has prior thefts and will be charged with petty theft with a prior for the bicycle theft.

Commercial Petty Theft
On July 17 at 3:06 p.m., dispatch received a call from a business in the 500 block of West Huntington reporting a security officer was chasing a male suspect that had possibly stolen some jewelry. The suspect ran east from the location to the rear alley of another business. He got into an awaiting black Lincoln Navigator. There was a second suspect in the driver's seat. The suspect vehicle drove away. The investigation is continuing.

Vandalism
On July 17 at 7:11 p.m., an officer responded to the 600 block of Monterey regarding a vandalism report. The victim stated that he parked his vehicle at 11:00 p.m. and upon his return the following morning saw damage to the hood, the left side of the vehicle, and to the windshield. The vehicle's alarm was set but did not activate during the night. The investigation is continuing.

Burglary / Identity Theft / Forgery / Conspiracy / Possession of a Controlled  Substance / Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – Suspects Arrested
On July 17 at 11:13 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 500 Block of West Huntington regarding a fraud report. The suspect was described as female, white in her late 20s to early 30s, with a black sundress, carrying a large beige purse, and having large tattoos on her back and arms. The female completed a transaction and headed to the exit door. She dropped the items she had "purchased" and walked toward a red truck. The red truck left without picking up the suspect. The truck was stopped by another officer while the suspect headed north through the lot and ran across Huntington Drive where she was detained. The suspect was in possession of fraudulent identification cards and matching Department of Motor Vehicle temporary driver licenses. She was also in possession of methamphetamine and two crack pipes. The suspect was arrested and her two female companions in the truck were also arrested on similar charges.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol / Traffic Collision – Suspect Arrested
On July 18 at 2:45 a.m. dispatch received a call from the 800 block of West Foothill reporting a white Honda Civic that had just hit their parked car. Officers responded and contacted the female driver who exhibited signs of intoxication. Field sobriety tests were conducted and it was determined the female driver was driving under the influence of alcohol and was arrested.

Vehicle Petty Theft
On July 18 at 6:09 p.m., officers responded to the 200 block of South Violet regarding a theft that just occurred. The victim is a contractor and was doing work at the location. The victim went outside the residence and observed a truck park south of his location. The two male occupants exited their vehicle and stood next to the vehicle. The victim went inside to continue working when a witness informed him someone was taking his equipment. As he went outside, he saw one of the suspects that had exited the truck taking his compressor. The suspect vehicle is a black Ford Ranger. The investigation is continuing.

Residential Burglary
On July 19 at 7:25 a.m., an officer was patrolling the 100 block of James Town when he observed a garage door open with no vehicles in the area. Further investigation revealed the power on the house had been turned off and the inside was ransacked with open drawers and jewelry on the ground. The owner of the residence was contacted and responded home for the investigation.

Dedication for Monrovia's Julian D. Fisher Park Playground

Julian Fisher Park, located at the corner of Almond and California Avenues in Monrovia, is set to unveil a brand new playground.  Please join the Monrovia City Council on Saturday, August 2 at 10:00 a.m. for the Grand Opening of the Julian Fisher Park playground.

Julian Fisher, one of seven Monrovia parks, is named after Julian D. Fisher, Monrovia’s first African-American police officer.  The 1.8 acre park features a gazebo, basketball courts, and a large play area.  However, in 2011, the aging and vandalized playground equipment was removed from the park.

In 2013, Los Angeles County Supervisor Michael Antonovich awarded a $250,000 grant to the City of Monrovia to replace the playground equipment as part of the Safe Neighborhoods Parks Propositions of 1992 and 1996, commonly referred to as Proposition A/Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District.

In a joint effort, the Monrovia City Council, Monrovia Community Services Commission and members of the Fisher family have been collaborating on ideas for the new playground; visiting playgrounds throughout Southern California to find the best fit for the beloved park nestled between established neighborhoods.  The contract was ultimately awarded to Playworld Stations.

The new playground, designed for children of all ages and abilities, will feature a slide with rollers to add zing, a climbing dome for kids of all ages, and a reinforced swing set.  Construction of the new playground began in May 2014.

Source: City of Monrovia press release

- Brad Haugaard

Battle Creek Show to be Filmed in Monrovia


Crews are setting up in Monrovia Canyon Park for filming on a new show called Battle Creek. A summary of the show at IMDB: http://goo.gl/n2zV70

- Brad Haugaard

Magnolia Reopens | Suicide at Monrovia Hotel?

~ Magnolia Avenue is now open through to Duarte Road. http://goo.gl/mtJcZR

~ Possible suicide by falling at Monrovia Marriott hotel. http://goo.gl/oYMjhS

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police Search for Man in Sex Case

Monrovia Police looking for man in sexual battery case. http://goo.gl/In9sOS

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Schools: Rosier Budget; Local Control

At its Wednesday, July 23 meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/iD9L5W ) the Monrovia School Board will consider ...

~ Approving a revised budget, which looks a bit rosier than before. Director of Fiscal Services, David Conway, reports that "District revenues for 2013-14 came in higher than anticipated." http://goo.gl/hEvb5B

~ Modifications to a 72-page "Local Control Accountability Plan" at the request of the LA County Superintendent of Schools. Opinion: There is something a bit bizarre about school districts having to submit 72-page documents to a higher authority in the name of "local control." http://goo.gl/MnKnqR

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Burger Basket


Lunch at Burger Basket, at the corner of Mayflower and Duarte Road. Got the fish and chips combo for $6.65 plus tax.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Pubs Host 'Crawl for a Cure'

Four Old Town pubs will host "Crawl for a Cure," a July 26 fundraising evening for the upcoming Relay for Life of Monrovia. All four hosts will be offering special pricing on menu items, and participants can win "Relay Swag" at each stop.

Registration and wristbands for a $30 donation will be available at the first stop. Crawlers are invited to wear purple to show their support of Relay for Life.

The pub crawl will begin at 4 p.m. at Sena, 409 S. Myrtle Ave., then proceed to London Gastropub, 419 S. Myrtle Ave., and T. Phillips Ale House, 601 S. Myrtle Ave. The evening will end at Gem City Grill, 115 E. Olive Ave. For more information, contact Michele Metcalf, (626) 241-3506, or Mike Laban, (626) 627-5230.

The Monrovia Relay for Life benefiting the American Cancer Society will be held from 9 a.m. Saturday, August 16, to 9 a.m. Sunday, August 17, at Recreation Park, 500 S. Shamrock Ave. For details and team sponsorship and signup forms, visit relayforlife.org/monroviaca.

- Brad Haugaard

'No Reportable Action' On Opening of Monrovia Hillside Preserve

I've been tracking the city's progress in opening to the public the Hillside Preserve ( http://goo.gl/BqEbdI ) and more recently the Cloverleaf access point to the preserve. The preserve was bought in large part by a bond issue paid for by the residents of Monrovia with the promise that they would have access to the area. Now, more than 14 years later, it is not fully open. In April there was a report ( http://goo.gl/gd39xf ) that the Cloverleaf access point might be opened in July. Since it is now well into July I thought I'd ask about it. Here is what I got back:
Good afternoon Mr. Baugaard,
Thank you for reaching out to me and I appreciate your community support.  City staff continues to work on the future opening of the Cloverleaf access point in the Hillside Wilderness Preserve.  There is no reportable action or proposed opening date at this time, but I would be happy to notify you when a firm date is set.
Thank you,

Tina Cherry
Community Services Director
City of Monrovia

- Brad Haugaard

Real Estate Agent Helps Monrovia Men

Real estate agent helps "low-functioning" Monrovia men find housing. Looking for work for them, too. http://goo.gl/rjCewG

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Making Fake Credit Cards; Runaway; Meth and More

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 14-16. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 383 service events, resulting in 52 investigations.

Grand Theft
On July 14 at 2:01 p.m., a grand theft in the 700 block of West Huntington Drive was reported to police. Construction is being done on the street and at the end of the work week last week, the construction crew covered the open trenches with two steel plates. When they arrived at work the next week, the plates were gone. Each sheet is 4 feet by 8 feet and they are worth $1000 each. The investigation is continuing.

Juvenile Problem
On July 15 at 8:40 p.m., officers responded to a home in the 400 block of Royal Oaks to look for a female juvenile who had run away from the residence. A description was obtained and the female was located a few blocks away. Officers counseled the juvenile, returned her to her residence and spoke with the parent. Approximately three hours later, the parent phoned police, reporting she and the juvenile had argued and the juvenile had left the residence again. Officers again located the juvenile, and after speaking with her, determined she needed to be held for mental evaluation. She was taken to a hospital, where she was held for observation and treatment.

Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspects Arrested
July 16 at 3:50 p.m., officers responded to a residence in the 300 block of Beechworth regarding a suspicious male subject sleeping in a vehicle. When officers arrived, they saw a male subject lying in the backseat of a vehicle. The subject reached for a purse on the floor, as if he was attempting to conceal it. He told the officers the purse belonged to a female that was with him, but she was currently visiting a friend at one of the residences. The male subject was arrested on an outstanding warrant. A search of the purse revealed methamphetamine and pipes. While officers were dealing with the male subject, the female who owns the purse returned and approached the officers. She was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and an outstanding warrant.

Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
On July 16 at 7:52 p.m., officers responded to the report of suspicious subjects in a park located in the 400 block of North Grand. Officers arrived, located the subject and determined he was under the influence of a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Detective Bureau Case Follow-up - Grand Theft Auto – Felony Charges Filed
On July 12 at 7:19 p.m., Special Enforcement Team officers observed a suspicious vehicle and driver in the area of Encino and Huntington. They followed the vehicle until it drove into a driveway in the 1800 block of Encino. A check of the license plate revealed the vehicle was stolen. The officers approached the car and driver, but the driver ran inside the house at the location and hid. The suspect was eventually located and arrested. During the course of the investigation, another stolen vehicle was found at the location. Interviewing the residents revealed another suspect at the home, and both suspects were arrested. After follow-up by the Detective Bureau, the case was taken to the District Attorney and felony charges were filed.

Grand Theft / Forgery/ Receiving Stolen Property – Five Felony Counts Filed
On July 14 at 9:30 a.m., Monrovia Special Enforcement Team officers provided information about a subject with a no-bail warrant for his arrest to the San Gabriel Valley Anti-Crime Task Force, which has an officer from Monrovia Police Department assigned to it. The task force tracked the wanted subject to a location in Pasadena. During the contact with the wanted subject, he was found to be in possession of credit card blanks and stolen credit card numbers. A second room at a different location was determined to be involved, so Monrovia Police Department Forgery/ Fraud Detectives responded and searched the room. A credit card embossing machine was also found. After questioning, it was determined the suspect had been making fake credit/gift cards using illegally obtained account numbers.

The suspect was arrested and booked. The case was presented to the District Attorney’s office and five felony counts were filed. It was the great collaborative work by task force members, Special Enforcement Team members, and detectives that brought about this successful apprehension, arrest and filing.

State of Monrovia Football

A look at the state of Monrovia football. QB Asaph Zamora "has been brilliant." http://goo.gl/5UI7Sn

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Church Distributing School Supplies

First Presbyterian Church of Monrovia is collecting school supplies for its 14th annual school supply distribution in August. The church will be distributing everything from backpacks to boxer shorts.

- Brad Haugaard

New Leaders at Monrovia Companies

~ The board of Monrovia's Everlert, Inc. has appointed Darin Shaw as Chief Executive Officer and President of the Board of Directors. Shaw previously held the position of in-house legal counsel of the company's subsidiary, Totalpost Services, Inc. The company provides ink cartridges in the U.S. postage meter industry. http://goo.gl/zXMknD

~ Monrovia's Xencor, Inc. has appointed Kurt Gustafson to its board of directors. Currently, Gustafson serves as executive vice president, chief financial officer and principal accounting officer at Spectrum Pharmaceuticals. Xencor is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing engineered monoclonal antibodies for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, asthma and allergic diseases, and cancer. http://goo.gl/hJKUQF

- Brad Haugaard

Open House to Discuss Monrovia's Station Square

The City of Monrovia will hold an open house on Wednesday, July 30, 6-8 p.m. in the Library to discuss what's going on with the Station Square project. Station Square is the development surrounding the Metro Gold Line station that will open in 2016 on Myrtle just above Duarte Road. The meeting will include a project discussion, photo renderings, and the opportunity to ask questions of staff from all areas of the project.

Source: City news release

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Carrying Knife Into Police Station; Speeding Past a Police Car; Trying to Drive Without Front Tires

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 10-13. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Attempt Grand Theft Auto
July 10 at 9:15 p.m., officers responded to the 200 block of West Lemon regarding an attempt grand theft auto. The victim parked her vehicle outside her garage off a rear alley. She left the vehicle unlocked with the window open and walked away for approximately 15 minutes. When she returned to the vehicle, she found the door open and the ignition had been punched. No suspects were seen or heard. The investigation is continuing.

Mental Evaluation
July 12 at 2:16 a.m., a female subject walked into the police lobby carrying a knife and tried to open one of the lobby doors. Officers approached the door and ordered her to place the knife down on the bench; she complied. They tried to speak to her, but she ran out of the lobby screaming. She was quickly detained and was determined to be a danger to herself and others. She was taken to a hospital, where she was held for a 72- hour mental evaluation.

Stolen Vehicles Recovered / False Information to a Peace Officer – Suspects Arrested
July 13 at 7:19 p.m., Special Enforcement Team officers were on patrol in the 1200 block of Encino when they saw a suspicious vehicle pull into a residence and saw a known gang member exit the vehicle and run into an open garage. Officers stopped and discovered the vehicle was reported stolen. Further investigation revealed a second stolen vehicle on the property. Several subjects were detained and additional units responded. The subject that exited the vehicle was located. Property was located inside the second stolen vehicle that belonged to one of the other subjects on scene. A third subject gave false information to the officers. A total of three subjects were arrested and taken into custody.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
July 13 at 8:29 p.m., a vehicle driving in the area of El Dorado and 2nd Avenue drove by a Monrovia patrol car at a high rate of speed. The officer stopped the vehicle and discovered the driver was driving under the influence. The driver was arrested and taken into custody.

Vehicle Vandalism
July 13 at 9:45 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a business in the 900 block of West Huntington. A female subject received a phone call from her ex-boyfriend while she was at work and she hung up on him when she recognized his voice. The female has a restraining order against the ex-boyfriend. He then phoned back and asked for her again and a second employee told him she was unavailable. The victim went out to her vehicle later in the evening and found her tires had been slashed and something had been poured into her gas tank. The investigation is continuing.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol – Suspect Arrested
July 13 at 2:17 a.m., officers on patrol came across a parked vehicle that was missing one front tire and the other was flat. The driver was slumped behind the wheel and the vehicle was running. The driver was determined to be driving under the influence of alcohol and was arrested.

Thunderstorms? | Clarion Singers Concert

~ National Weather Service reports "threat of monsoonal thunderstorms late tonight through Wednesday" for the San Gabriel Valley. http://goo.gl/MxdIuc

~ The Clarion Singers. Choral concert including works by Purcell, Lassus, Rheinberger and Harris. Sunday July 20, 7 p.m., St Luke's Episcopal Church, 122 S. California Ave. No admission charge but a freewill offering.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Veterinarians Host Fundraisers for Relay for Life

Monrovia's Family Dog & Cat Hospital and Dr. Domotor's Animal House are hosting a series of events to raise funds for the August 16-17 Relay for Life of Monrovia. The relay will honor cancer survivors, remember loved ones lost, and fight the disease.

Family Dog & Cat Hospital, 136 West Lime Avenue, is selling $5 raffle tickets for three pet treatment baskets. The dental basket includes an exam, blood work, anesthesia and dental. A canine and a feline wellness basket each include an exam, nail trim, blood work and Revolution parasite protection. Tickets are available at the hospital, and winners will be announced at the Relay.

Dr. Domotor's Animal House, 135 West Foothill Boulevard, is holding three events. A Dog and Cat Bake Sale July 14 from 12 noon to 6 p.m. will feature homemade dog and cat treats. A Hand Dog Wash July 19 from 8 a.m. to 12 noon will offer a hypoallergenic shampoo and towel dry with shampoo and conditioner to take home for $7 per pet. All dogs must be on a leash. Dr. Domotor's will host a Yappy Hour on July 25 and August 1 from 5 to 6 p.m. Dogs and their humans can relax, unwind and enjoy a puptini (mocktails for the humans) and yappy hour treats. "Cover charge" is $7.

Source: press release

- Brad Haugaard

Lunch at Troy Donuts and Burgers

Lunch recently at Troy Donuts and Burgers, a fast food place on the west side of Myrtle just south of Duarte Road. Got the Bacon Cheeseburger Combo for $6.29. Good price for a tasty burger, drink and fries.

- Brad Haugaard

Weekend Parking Fee for Monrovia Canyon Park Up a Dollar

Looks like the weekend and holiday parking fee for Monrovia Canyon Park has gone up by a dollar, to $6. http://goo.gl/6AQ1OG

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia City Council: Homeless in Park; National Recreation Area

At the next Monrovia City Council meeting (agenda: http://goo.gl/6a2owZ ), there will be a report from the Committee on Homelessness and Park Conduct, and an update on the proposed National Recreation Area boundaries (which currently include part of Monrovia) by Interim City Manager Fran Delach. The Council earlier requested that the city be excluded from being part of the NRA.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Arrest for Making Honey Oil; Fight Over Headphones and Watch; Thief Can't Start Car; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 7-9. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 449 service events, resulting in 85 investigations.

Vandalism
July 7 at 7:51 a.m., an officer was dispatched to the high school in the 800 block of West Colorado on the report of vandalism. Campus security arrived in the morning after the 4 th of July weekend and discovered someone had written graffiti on the auto shop building. The investigation is continuing.

Attempt Grand Theft Auto / Vehicle Burglary
July 7 at 11:10 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of North Lincoln called police to report that someone had attempted to take his vehicle. The victim parked his vehicle on the street and secured it on July 3. When he returned to his vehicle on July 7, he discovered the driver side door lock was punched. The suspect tore the steering column apart, attempting to take the vehicle, but it appears they couldn't start it. The suspects took some welding books from inside the vehicle. The investigation is continuing.

Manufacturing of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Honey Oil – Suspect Arrested
July 7 at 3:24 p.m., an officer on patrol in the 100 block of West Greystone came upon a vehicle with the door left open. When he stopped and looked inside, he saw approximately 50 butane bottles and a pipe with possible honey oil on it. The driver of the vehicle could not be located and the vehicle was registered out of town. Due to the extreme hot weather and the butane bottles sitting in the sun, the Monrovia Fire Department was requested and responded to the scene. A resident from the 300 block of Stedman told officers the vehicle belonged to his son's friend, who was inside the house. The 19-year-old suspect was located and arrested for manufacturing honey oil.

Vehicle Tampering – Suspects Arrested
July 7 at 12:21 a.m., a resident in the 300 block of Fowler Drive saw two male subjects lift the door handle to his vehicle, checking to see if the door was unlocked. He chased the suspects, but wasn't able to keep up. A few minutes later, a security officer from an alarm company who was patrolling the 700 block of West Foothill saw the two males running. He called the police and then detained the suspects, who cooperated. The victim arrived just as officers arrived and placed the two under private persons arrest for vehicle tampering. The suspects were taken into custody.

Strong-arm Robbery – Suspect Arrested
July 9 at 6:35 p.m., officers responded to a business parking lot at Foothill and Myrtle regarding a robbery. Two male adults who knew each other began arguing in the shopping center parking lot. One of the subjects took the other subjects headphones and then demanded the subject’s wrist watch. The victim did not attempt to recover the headphones out of fear for his safety and attempted to walk away; however, the suspect wanted the watch and began hitting the victim, attempting to remove it from the victim's wrist. A bystander broke up the fight and the suspect fled in a vehicle with the victim's headphones. The victim was able to identify the suspect, and he was located and apprehended by police, as the vehicle was still in the area.

Registration Open for Monrovia Neighborhood Conference

Registration is now open for the Monrovia Area Partnership (MAP) Neighborhood Conference on August 9, where you can learn about what is going on in and around town. http://goo.gl/9sAaXP

Comment: Ya know, I think it would be good to record these sessions on video and post them online for those who can't attend.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia-Based Jewish Federation Supports Israeli Response to Rocket Attacks

The Monrovia-based Jewish Federation of the Greater San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys has issued a statement saying it and the Jewish community "unequivocally stand and support the Government of Israel and its right, and duty, to defend its citizens from the terror and continued rocket fire from Hamas, Islamic Jihad and other terror groups operating in Gaza. Over the past 48 hours days, Hamas and other terror groups in the Gaza Strip have indiscriminately fired over 150 rockets and mortars at civilians of Southern Israel[.]"

Source: Jewish Federation press release

- Brad Haugaard

Historic Monrovia Drinking Fountain Being Restored

Construction has begun to repair the historic drinking fountain in Library Park at the corner of Myrtle and Lime. It was destroyed in a car accident. Comment: Hooray!

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Loses Deputy Fire Chief to Monterey Park | Another Bear Video

~ Monrovia Deputy Fire Chief Scott Haberle will move to Monterey Park to become its fire chief. http://goo.gl/NczlqP

~ Yet more Monrovia bears. These eating Cocoa Krispies. http://goo.gl/aUJWbj

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Companies: Good Earnings for AeroVironment; STAAR Surgical in Class Action Suit

~ For its fourth quarter ended April 30, Tim Conver, CEO of Monrovia's AeroVironment, reported: "An 87 percent increase in diluted earnings per share on an adjusted basis, the achievement of our financial and operating objectives and the delivery of solid results that exceeded our guidance for fiscal 2014." http://goo.gl/SQQDyA

~ Pomerantz Law Firm has filed a class action lawsuit on behalf of shareholders against STAAR Surgical, of Monrovia, charging that "Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that the Company's Monrovia Facility: (i) lacked adequate methodologies and facilities for the manufacture, packing, storage and installation of the Company's implantable lenses; (ii) lacked adequate procedures for documenting complaints, sterility testing, and maintaining required records; and (iii) as a result of the foregoing, the Monrovia Facility was not in conformity with current good manufacturing practice requirements at all relevant times." http://goo.gl/hcPcSn

- Brad Haugaard

Photo Tour of Gold Line Yard in Monrovia

A photo tour of construction at the Gold Line maintenance yard, just west of Home Depot in Monrovia. http://goo.gl/SyHjOR

- Brad Haugaard

Coming Up: Concerts at Monrovia's Library Park

Reminder: Summer concerts begin this coming Sunday evening in Library Park. Here's the schedule: http://goo.gl/CCHwzD

- Brad Haugaard

Big Marble Dragons Stolen from Monrovia Home

On June 26, a theft was reported by the resident at 111 McKinley Place. Two very heavy white marble sculpture dragon pieces were stolen from the yard. The sculptures were situated near the mailbox in front of the property. They were extremely heavy and it would have taken more than one person to lift them. Most likely the suspects used a truck to haul them away. The theft occurred sometime between June 14 to 23, 2014. If anyone in the area saw or heard anything regarding this crime, please contact the Monrovia Police Department and reference case #14-009940.

Source: Monrovia Police notice

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Burglar Surprises Woman in Bed; No Bomb, Just a Typewriter; Walking in Middle of Street; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for July 3-6. - Brad Haugaard]

Following are the weekend’s highlighted issues and events.

Structure Fire
July 4 at 6:58 p.m., an officer was on patrol in the 600 block of West Lime when he noticed smoke emitting from a residence. As he approached, he noticed a two story detached garage was on fire. The Monrovia Fire Department was notified and responded. Adjacent residents were evacuated while the fire was extinguished. The second story sustained severe damage.

Grand Theft Auto Recovery – Suspect Arrested
July 4 at 11:26 p.m., police received information and responded on the report of a possible stolen vehicle in the area of Monterey and Chestnut. The vehicle was reported as a white Ford Mustang with paper plates. Officers located a vehicle matching the description in a parking lot and observed the vehicle for a while. A female subject was seen getting into the vehicle and driving away. Officers observed a traffic violation and conducted a traffic stop. A computer check was run on the vehicle's identification number and it was confirmed that it was a reported stolen out of Ontario. The driver was arrested and taken into custody.

Suspicious Package
July 5 at 11:40 p.m., two residents called police to report a suspicious package that was left in the middle of the street in the 200 block of North Mayflower. Officers arrived and found a briefcase in the middle of the street. It appeared that someone may have deliberately left the case. As a precaution, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Bomb Squad was notified and responded. They X-rayed the briefcase and determined it contained an old typewriter.

Hot Prowl Burglary
July 6 at 1:13 a.m., a resident in the 200 block of North Ivy called police to report a burglar in her house. She was asleep when she heard a creeping sound on her wood floors and noticed a light in her room. She sat up in bed and noticed a dark round object on the floor next to her bed. Suddenly, a man wearing all black clothing stood up. She screamed and the suspect fled the room. The resident locked her bedroom door and yelled she was calling the police. Officers arrived and noticed the front door was wide open. An area search was conducted, but the suspect was not located. There was no loss. The investigation is continuing.

Domestic Violence – Suspect Arrested
July 6 at 1:26 p.m., officers were dispatched to a residence in the 200 block of West Cypress on the report of domestic violence. The call was transferred from the CHP. A female was heard crying and was in an altercation with her husband. The phone was disconnected by the victim. When Monrovia dispatch called the number back, a child answered the phone and said the mother and father were fighting. The child said the father hurt the mother and she was bleeding on one of her fingers. Further investigation revealed the mother and father were both threatening to leave the house and started to fight over the car keys. During the fight, the father bit the mother on the hand. The father was arrested for domestic violence and was served with an emergency protective order.

Residential Burglary
July 6 at 7:16 p.m., a resident in the 1000 block of Winding Oak called police to report a burglary at his home. He had locked his house and left for a weekend vacation. Upon his return home, he discovered the back bathroom door and a sliding glass door wide open. The house had been ransacked. Officers responded to investigate the burglary. The resident's flat screen television, laptop computer and Sony PlayStation were taken. The investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary
July 6 at 11:49 p.m., an alarm company called police to report that a burglary alarm at a business in the 100 block of West Duarte Road had been activated. Officers responded and discovered the front door to the business was open. They searched the building and determined the business had been burglarized. The owner of the business was notified. The cash registers had been forced open; however, the owner said no money was kept in the registers. An area search was conducted, but no suspects were located. The investigation is continuing.

Possession of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
July 7 at 2:52 a.m., an officer on patrol was driving east on Huntington, passing Mountain, when he saw a female walking in the middle of the street. He told her to move out of the street and she responded and walked to the center raised median. The officer made a u-turn and was driving back west on Huntington. The same female stepped out in front of the patrol car, causing the officer to brake rapidly. He ordered the female to the sidewalk, where he was going to issue her a citation. A computer check revealed she was on active probation for assaulting a peace officer and she was subject to search. The female consented to having her purse searched, and a small bag of methamphetamine was found. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Car Wash for Monrovia High Band and Colorguard

The Monrovia High School Marching Wildcats Band and Colorguard will hold a car wash and bake sale Saturday July 12 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Walgreens at 253 E. Foothill Blvd. in Arcadia. Suggested donation: $6 for cars, $8 for trucks and SUVs.

- Brad Haugaard

Happy Birthday, America!


The Monrova fireworks show was great, as usual. I was particularly impressed by how well the music synced with the fireworks. (Sorry about the bad cell phone photo.)

Much better pictures at Gem City Images: http://goo.gl/jXz3ZO

- Brad Haugaard

Waiting for the Monrovia Fireworks Show


2:30 PM on a hot Fourth of July and there are already lots of people camped out waiting for toniight's fireworks show. Actually, I heard there were people camped out at eight in the morning.

- Brad Haugaard

Will 19-Acre Property in North Monrovia Be Subdivided into Seven Parcels?

A 19-acre property containing six leased houses is for sale at an asking price of almost $4 million in north Monrovia. The real estate listing says the City of Monrovia has said the property, at 537 Cloverleaf Drive, "can be subdivided into a minimum of 7 huge residential parcels." http://goo.gl/kePMuI

- Brad Haugaard

Fourth of July Fireworks Safety Tips

No home fireworks are allowed in Monrovia (but there'll be a great fireworks show at Library Park: http://goo.gl/JGJ6yg ), but if you are going to be in an area that allows fireworks and decide to use fireworks, the city recommends you follow these safety tips:

- Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.
- Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.
- Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.
- Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Parents don't realize that young children suffer injuries from sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees - hot enough to melt some metals.
- Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse.
- Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
- Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
- Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
- Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
- Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
- After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Fourth of July Event Schedule

Here's the schedule for Fourth of July in Monrovia:

- 3:00-7:00 p.m. DJ will play recorded music
- 5:00-9:30 p.m. Old Town Family Festival will be held until 9:30 p.m.
- 7:00-8:30 p.m. Live performance featuring the band "Stone Soul", playing your favorite 1970's songs
- 8:50 p.m. Formal welcome from the Mayor, City Council, and other dignitaries in attendance
- 9:00-9:20 p.m. Firework show

Event sponsors include: Presidential Sponsor, Mary Ann and Corey Lutz; Wendy's Hamburgers; Samuelson & Fetter; Monrovia Old Town Merchants; Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District; The Sierra Family of Dealerships; and Ducommun AeroStructures.
 
Source: City news release
 
- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Police: Runaway Juvenile; Fraud; Meth; Under the Influence; Etc.

[Monrovia Police activities from the Police Department's Neighborhood Watch Report for June 30 – July 2. - Brad Haugaard]

During the last seven-day period, the Police Department handled 431 service events, resulting in 77 investigations.

Vandalism
June 30 at 7:21 a.m., staff from an elementary school in the 400 block of West Colorado called to report graffiti spray painted on tables, benches, and the fence. Black spray paint was used and most of the graffiti was unreadable. The investigation is continuing.

Vandalism
June 30 at 8:09 a.m., staff from the high school in the 800 block of West Colorado called police to report that a number of buildings at the school had been vandalized. Graffiti had been written on them in a red wax or paste. The investigation is continuing.

Commercial Burglary / Possession of Burglary Tools – Suspect Arrested
June 30 at 5:55 p.m., officers responded to a business in the 500 block of West Huntington on the report of a burglary. Three female suspects entered the store, selected clothing items, and went into the dressing room, where they entered the same dressing stall. Two of the females came out of the dressing room and exited the store. They were detained by arriving officers at their vehicle. The females had no stolen items in their possession. They were identified and released. The third female was detained inside the store. She had store merchandise in her purse, along with a pair of wire cutters. She had attempted to remove the security tags. She was arrested and taken into custody.

Suspicious Person / Runaway Juvenile Located
July 1 at 11:13 a.m., an officer was dispatched to a business in the 300 block of West Huntington on the report a female sleeping on the rear dock area. The officer located a 16-year-old female, who told him she had run away from a group home in Bakersfield. A computer check revealed she was a reported missing person out of Bakersfield. She said she took a bus to Union Station in Los Angeles and called a male friend, who drove her to Monrovia. When she arrived in Monrovia, she and her friend got into an altercation, and she was left on foot. The Department of Children and Family Services was contacted and they took custody of the juvenile.Under the influence of a Controlled Substance / Possession of Drug

Paraphernalia – Suspect Arrested
On July 1 at 3:03 p.m., an officer on patrol in the 1400 block of South Mayflower stopped to contact a subject in the park. As the officer was talking to the subject, he noticed that the subject displayed signs of being under the influence. After further evaluation, the subject was determined to be under the influence of a controlled substance. A search of the suspect revealed two syringes. He was arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Commercial Burglary / Possession of Forged Drivers License / Possession of Forged Access Card – Suspects Arrested
July 1 at 9:48 p.m., an officer responded to a business in the 500 block of West Huntington on the report of a fraud in progress. The officer arrived and met with the loss prevention employee, who pointed out the suspects that were still in the process of making a transaction at the register. The suspects exited the store and were detained outside by the officer. Further investigation revealed the two suspects entered the store with the intent to purchase store merchandise using fraudulent identification and credit cards. Both suspects were arrested for burglary and the fraud related violations.

Possession of Methamphetamine – Suspect Arrested
July 2 at 4:31 a.m., an officer on patrol in the area of Myrtle and California stopped a motorist for a minor vehicle code violation. Upon contacting the driver, the officer discovered he was on probation for drugs. The driver consented to a vehicle search that revealed a case for sunglasses containing methamphetamine and a glass pipe concealed between the center console and the right front passenger seat. The right front passenger admitted the pipe belonged to him. The passenger was arrested and taken into custody. The driver and his vehicle were released in the field.

Vehicle Burglary
July 2 at 7:15 a.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 200 block of West Scenic. The victim reported that a window on the vehicle had been smashed and his wallet was taken from inside. The vehicle had been parked on the street overnight. The investigation is continuing.

Mental Evaluation
July 2 at 12:26 p.m., officers responded to a residence in the 300 block of South Fifth Avenue regarding a family disturbance. A 19-year-old male was holding a knife to his throat and threatening to kill himself. The knife was taken from the subject prior to police arrival. The subject was taken to a hospital, where he was placed on a 72-hour hold for mental evaluation.

Driving Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance – Suspect Arrested
July 2 at 10:12 p.m., an officer was dispatched to the area of Alta Vista and Colorado to a fight in progress. When he arrived, many of the subjects began to leave the area, including one motorist who was detained to further investigate the fight call. The investigation revealed that no one was injured as a result of the fight and that no one desired prosecution. The detained motorist was found to be operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs. The subject was arrested and taken into custody.

Traffic Collision / Driving Under the Influence – Suspect Arrested
July 3 at 1:49 a.m., a rollover traffic collision was reported in the 1100 block of Orange. A solo vehicle veered off the roadway and struck a brick wall. The vehicle came to rest in the roadway on its side. The driver received minor visible injuries, but was complained of pain. The investigation revealed the driver was operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. The motorist was taken to a hospital for treatment of his injuries. A verified complaint request will be submitted to the court for filing DUI charges.

Opinion: What Will People Push Monrovia to Ban Next?

In watching the discussion about banning plastic carry-out grocery bags, I heard so many ban advocates indicate that banning the bags is "just a start," which leads me to think that now that Monrovia has prohibited the bags (starting Jan. 1) that we will soon see attempts to ban other things.

Like what?

Well, based on comments I've heard at various City Council meetings, I'd guess that there will be pressure for the city to go after smoking in multi-unit dwellings - or in public parks, or both - so if you smoke, not only do you get to die young, but you may also get to be harassed in your own home.

Second-hand smoke is bad, and I support bans on smoking in confined places that the public can freely enter (businesses, government offices, etc.) and smoking near the doors of such buildings, but in the great outdoors every additional foot of distance between me and a smoker dilutes the smoke, and at some not-very-great distance the smoke becomes barely a smell. And at that point, I think we should stop harassing these poor people.

And, no, I don't smoke.

- Brad Haugaard

No Home Fireworks in Monrovia

The City wants to remind everybody - no home fireworks in Monrovia ( http://goo.gl/zQ4YpH ). There is a great fireworks show at Library Park, however: http://goo.gl/ZmNSE1

- Brad Haugaard

Citrus College Sued - Charged With Limiting Free Speech

A student is suing Citrus College, which serves Monrovia, for limiting free speech to "a small 'free speech area' on the campus quad." http://goo.gl/uhfNwc

- Brad Haugaard

Proposed New Building for Monrovia BMW Dealership


The BMW dealership at 1425 S. Mountain Ave. may get a new building. The Monrovia Design Review Committee recommended accepting a proposed three-story, 208,783 square feet structure. http://goo.gl/zRM2qG

- Brad Haugaard

Will Your Home Be Made Part of a National Recreation Area?


A section of the boundary of the proposed National Recreation Area (the yellow line). The area includes parts of Monrovia - including homes. For a full interactive map (zoom in to see Monrovia): http://goo.gl/WPHmHm

Former State Senator Dick Mountjoy, a Monrovia resident, thanked the City Council for opposing the National Recreation Area proposed by Congresswoman Judy Chu, who represents the top edge of Monrovia. He said the boundary for the proposed federal area cuts through his property and that of his neighbors. He asked that the city write a letter to Congress opposing the NRA.

Councilman Tom Adams added that Congresswoman Chu has not responded to the city's request to be excluded from the federal area and asked for a staff report on how to proceed when a congresswoman "ignores a city request."

- Brad Haugaard

Monrovia Plastic Bag Ban Finalized

The Monrovia City Council tonight approved the second reading of the plastic grocery carry-out bag ban, which means the ban will go into effect on January 1, 2015.

Councilmembers Larry Spicer and Alexander Blackburn did not make the same mistake of missing the council meeting. Last time there was a second reading on the ban, they failed to show up and the bag ban was reversed. Blackburn then reintroduce the ban and it was approved tonight. Councilmembers Tom Adams and Becky Shevlin again voted against the ban.

- Brad Haugaard

New Monrovia Craftsman House | Fourth of July Event

~ Craftsman style house being built at the corner of Foothill and Canyon. Picture: http://goo.gl/IEFJaH

~ Details about Fourth of July concert and fireworks show at Library Park. The band Stone Soul playing from 7-8:30 p.m. A 20-minute fireworks show beginning at 9 p.m. http://goo.gl/ZmNSE1

- Brad Haugaard

Three Law Firms Say They Will Investigate Monrovia Company

At least three law firms have announced they will be investigating Monrovia's Staar Surgical in connection with the warning letter the company received from the Food and Drug Administration ( http://goo.gl/E6lxdY ). These are: The Rosen Law Firm ( http://goo.gl/CT0HRX ), the Law Offices of Howard G. Smith ( http://goo.gl/nmlB96 ), and Harwood Feffer LLP ( http://goo.gl/6Y1plj ).

- Brad Haugaard

Jewish Federation Moving to Monrovia

The Jewish Federation of the Greater San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys is excited to announce that it has just signed a lease to move to its new offices in Monrovia. The Jewish Federation will be temporary located at Temple Beth David in Temple City while its new offices are being built out. With this move, the Jewish Federation is moving closer to the center of our community – an area from Glendale to Rancho Cucamonga.

The Jewish Federation had been located in Arcadia at the former Congregation Shaarei Torah building on Second Avenue since September 2010, after over 30 years in Covina. During its tenure there, the Jewish Federation was able to expand its programming and the services it offered. With the many events and performances that took place here (An Evening with the Consul General of Israel, plays and musicals, concerts and lectures), our Arcadia location become a center for Jewish life in the greater San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys. As one community member put it, “We now have a place for all Jews from across our community, to come together and feel connected.”

The new facility will allow the Jewish Federation to continue its valuable work it does for and on behalf of the local Jewish community, as well as have a multipurpose room for small meetings and gatherings, along with a rehearsal space for Kol HaEmek (the community’s Jewish community choir), the Jewish Youth Orchestra, and upcoming plays and musicals.

“While the physical space of our new location will have a distinctly different look and feel,” Jason Moss, Executive Director explains, “the Jewish Federation’s Board of Governors and Staff are completely committed to continue providing the services and our current programs that so many people have come to count on.”

Jewish Federation’s new address is 116 W. Lime Avenue, Monrovia, CA 91016. The tentative move in date will be August 1, unless the build-out is completed in a shorter period of time.

For more information about the Jewish Federation’s move, or upcoming plans, please contact the Jewish Federation at 626.445.0810 or by email at federation@jewishsgpv.org.

The Jewish Federation of the Greater San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys provides programs and services that meet the needs of the local Jewish community – from Glendale to Rancho Cucamonga and south to Whittier – and provides the Jewish voice and leadership in addressing issues that affect the Jewish community as a whole.

Source: press release

- Brad Haugaard

FDA Warns Monrovia's Staar Surgical

Monrovia's Staar Surgical, which makes replacement lenses for the human eye, has received a warning letter from the Food and Drug Administration. It appears to be mostly about record keeping. http://goo.gl/E6lxdY

- Brad Haugaard