Living in Monrovia

Transformation

2008-03-17T04:53:00.001-07:00

Living in Monrovia is leaving blogger, but not leaving the blogosphere! Please bookmark the new location for this little blog. Thanks for stopping by.

P.S. This blog will stay here but will no longer be updated at this location. Here is the new version!

Library Webcam

2008-03-14T05:02:00.000-07:00

I just found out that the city has posted a live webcam that allows anyone online to view the construction from the privacy of their own computer. Woo Hoo! It can even pan and tilt. Try it out and enjoy the view of the vast dirt plain! Check out the webcam here.

I suspect that maybe what the really want to do is keep an eye on the place to make sure no pesky teenagers get it in their heads to scale the fence and climb any trees.

Photo courtesy of the City of Monrovia's website.

Revamped Lobby for the Aztec

2008-03-14T04:01:00.001-07:00

Aztec Hotel, Monrovia, originally uploaded by jericl cat.

What happened to the feathered greeters in the Aztec Hotel Lobby? Looks as if I'll have to stop by again one of these days to see what's been done.

Nice photo by jerici cat.

Golden Tracks

2008-02-22T00:23:00.001-08:00

Golden Tracks, originally uploaded by MarshmalloZ.

Dreamy photo of the railroad tracks by Joseph Stevenson.

OPEN THREAD: Focal Points

2008-02-22T00:15:00.000-08:00

I've often thought about what, in addition to Old Town, Monrovia could create as a focal point for visitors and local residents to enjoy. If I could choose anything, it would be a lake with walking trails around it. Land being at a premium, I don't see that happening anytime soon.

What do you think would be a nice focal point for the city? A fountain? A fantastic building? A waterslide?

Finally, a decent bar in Monrovia!

2008-02-22T00:10:00.000-08:00

Ok, I know it's not in Old Town, but at least we now have a decent bar to hang in when the need arises. I attended the opening gala of the "new" Doubletree Hotel on Huntington Drive in Monrovia.

Even in the rain, it left a favorable impression on me as a place to come on some warm evening and sit by the pool. They have made an effort to place lots of lounge furniture both inside and out, and hopefully they will have good food. I didn't bring my camera and so can't post a picture at the moment, but will try to remember to get over there and shoot some pictures later on.

Captain Hook on Dry Land

2008-02-22T00:08:00.001-08:00

Captain Hook on Dry Land, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Ok...this is my last post of famous plastic figures for awhile. I think I'm going to pose next to this guy and get my picture taken one of these days.

ANNOUNCEMENT: Monrovia VFW Post To Honor Blue Star Families

2008-02-21T23:59:00.000-08:00

I drive by the VFW Post all the time. I don't qualify to go in, but I'm happy to help them get their information out.

Arcadia-Monrovia Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2070, based in Monrovia, has announced plans to honor so-called "Blue Star Families" - the parents and siblings of service members currently in uniform.

The First Blue Star Dinner will be held February 29, at Post 2070 in Monrovia, and will honor the local loved ones of soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines and coast guardsmen currently serving, whether at home or abroad.

The term "Blue Star Families" refers to flags that families flew during World War II that marked homes with loved ones in service. Today, the City of Monrovia honors its military families with blue star banners on major streets.

The free dinner is being sponsored by Post 2070, with significant donations from the Monrovian Family Restaurant and Rudy's Mexican Food of Monrovia plus Paco's Mexican Restaurant of Arcadia. However, the Post is still seeking additional donations to make the event complete.

Families of currently serving military personnel from the Arcadia, Monrovia and Duarte area who would like to attend should RSVP to VFW2070@gmail.com. RSVPs are mandatory, though the event is free to Blue Star Families. Businesses who are interested in lending support can use the same email address.

For more information- Robert C. J. Parry (310) 651-0231, rcjparry@yahoo.com

Oh, the irony

2008-02-21T23:51:00.001-08:00

Parking Lot Landscaping, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Something poignant about this particular bit of landscaping spotted in a Monrovia parking lot.

ANNOUNCEMENT: Colorado Commons Models Open Feb 23

2008-02-21T23:43:00.000-08:00

The long-awaited Colorado Commons townhomes in Old Town Monrovia will be available for viewing on Saturday, Feb. 23.

The floorplans span up to 2,133 square feet and include one to three bedrooms and one to two and a half baths. Homebuyers aren't the only ones who are excited about experiencing the models for the first time; future homeowners at Colorado Commons are equally thrilled. Priscilla Harris has literally watched Colorado Commons being built from the ground upright from her own backyard. She says she can't wait to move into her one bedroom flat in March. "I've been excited about this community from the very beginning," said Harris, a long-time Monrovia resident. "I'm dying to move in. It's absolutely gorgeous inside and out. I've never seen another community like this before, especially not in Southern California."

Virtual tours are also available online at livecoloradocommons.com.

Quonset Hut

2008-02-21T23:42:00.001-08:00

Quonset Hut, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

There's something fun about spotting bits of history like Quonset Huts in the less traveled streets of Monrovia.

According to Wikipedia, "Between 150,000-170,000 Quonset huts were manufactured during WWII. After the war, the U.S. military sold the surplus Quonset huts to the public for $1,000 each." More on Quonset Huts here.

Man on Monrovia Rooftop

2008-02-16T17:19:00.001-08:00

Man on Monrovia Rooftop, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

I missed this guy last time I drove by the shop with the policeman...He's on the roof!

ANNOUNCEMENTS: Monrovia Learns

2008-02-14T11:31:00.002-08:00

I have lately gotten more requests for posting announcements on my blog, and will do so under the "Announcements" heading. Here is the latest:

The Monrovia Adult School has an exciting new department! Monrovia Learns is offering some great classes that enrich and support family life in our community.

Located inside the Canyon Early Learning Center, some of the classes include:

* Sign Language With Your Child
* Music With Your Child
* Art With Your Child
* Exercise & Nutrition

This is only a partial listing. For more information contact the Monrovia Adult School at 471-3035, or Susan Hirsch, the principal of Monrovia Learns, at 471-3085.

Plastic Police

2008-02-10T16:23:00.001-08:00

Plastic Police, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Ok...what's this guy doing and why is he pulling his gun?

A New Place to Rant

2008-02-04T19:47:00.000-08:00

The website called "Outside.In" has just put up discussion boards that anyone can post to. I started the Monrovia board with one posting, so go ahead, start ranting!

Monrovia seagull

2008-02-04T15:10:00.001-08:00

Monrovia seagull, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Who knew Monrovia had seagulls?

Local TV station needs YOU

2008-02-03T00:28:00.000-08:00

Hey All,

This is a little note to let you know that you are wanted and needed by our local TV station ("Monrovia has a TV station?" I can hear some of you saying... "Who knew?"). Not only does Monrovia have a TV station, but this station has a full-time staff who are willing and ready to help you learn all about producing your own video. They have cameras and stuff to check out as well. So go ahead, put that grand ol' idea of yours in motion. What are you waiting for? For more info, contact KGEM.

Monrovia Press Conference

2008-02-02T14:07:00.000-08:00

Most of you already know about the recent violence that has erupted in our city. I have posted the KGEM video of the press conference here.

OPEN THREAD: Fresh & Easy

2008-02-01T21:54:00.001-08:00

Has anyone been to the new Fresh & Easy market on Foothill? Although their produce looked pretty good, the brands on the shelves seemed pretty standard. Where do you shop when there is no Farmer's Market?

Library Park Playground

2008-02-01T21:51:00.001-08:00

Park Play Facility in Monrovia, CA, originally uploaded by claimsmantoo.

Good shot of the playground by claimsmantoo.

Habitat for Humanity comes to Monrovia

2008-01-31T16:21:00.000-08:00

I've always loved what Habitat for Humanity stands for, and am happy to report that they are planning a build in Monrovia. Right now they are in the fundraising stage, and can use both monetary and in-kind donations. They are looking for both local volunteers and four worthy families to receive homes.

For more information about how you can be involved, visit the San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity website, or if you are a women and would like to join the Women's Build, stop by the Monrovia Women's Build website.

Shutters

2008-01-29T00:45:00.001-08:00

shutters, originally uploaded by billaday.

Love this photo from Billaday.

OPEN THREAD: Paving it over

2008-01-14T15:53:00.000-08:00

I am providing here the text of a recent article by Chet Raymo of Science Musings. I think he raises some interesting points.

Last Sunday's New York Times had a front-page story on the growing fleets of off-road vehicles that are churning up public lands in the American West. The battle is on between the owners of recreational ATVs and conservationists over who and what has the right to use our national forests and wilderness areas.

The natural contours of a landscape and indigenous flora and fauna are no impediments to piston-powered two-, three- and four-wheeled machines that are designed to go just about anywhere. A pristine dune or purling stream can be obliterated in a trice. Even in my domesticated New England village, public green space is regularly (and illegally) befouled by the idiotic offspring of internal combustion.

Of course, off-road vehicles are just part of the problem. An even bigger menace is road vehicles.

Scrape it flat. Pump tar out of the ground and spread it out on the surface. Another road. Another parking lot. Sometimes it seems as if our ideal planet would be as round and smooth as a bowling ball, asphalt black, painted with regular white lines.

We are hellbent on destroying the uniqueness of places.

The automobile is the perfect machine for obliterating a place, especially an automobile with a cellular phone. "Honey, I'm just leaving the parking lot; I'll be home in an hour." "Honey, I'm on the expressway, home in 20 minutes." "Honey, I'm in the driveway."

One place like every other place. And if it's not, well, we can make it so.

Which is not to say that we can leave natural places alone. We no longer have that privilege. Maybe we never had that privilege. When the first human ancestor crafted a chopping tool out of stone, the wilderness was finished. When the first human struck a fire with flint, untrammeled nature was in retreat.

The entire surface of the planet is inevitably going to be a human artifact. A farm is an artifact. A national park is an artifact. A homey neighborhood is an artifact. The question is not whether we will live in artificial places, but whether we will know and love the place we live in.

"If you know one landscape well, you will look at all other landscapes differently," says a character in Anne Michael's novel Fugitive Pieces. "If you learn to love one place, sometimes you can also learn to love another."

And that's what place is all about -- learning to love. No one loves a crowded expressway. No one loves acres of asphalt marked with white lines. The automobile is the antithesis of love because it is the antithesis of place.

The place we learn to love can be a windowsill in a New York high-rise, a patch of New England woodlands, or a thousand acres of the high Sierras. Alaskan nature writer Richard Nelson states: "What makes a place special is the way it buries itself inside the heart, not whether it's flat or rugged, rich or austere, wet or arid, gentle or harsh, warm or cold, wild or tame. Every place, like every person, is elevated by the love and respect shown toward it, and by the way in which its bounty is received."

Civic planners and stewards of public lands have a responsibility to ensure that our parks, greenways and open spaces remain bountiful. One thinks back to that grand era of public places designed and executed by the landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted and his contemporaries. His was the generation who gave us our national parks, national forests, and great city parks. His was the generation who knew we can't survive without roots in nature.

New York's Central and Prospect Parks, Boston's Emerald Necklace, Chicago's Jackson Park and Montreal's Mount Royal Park are just a few of Olmsted's many splendid urban creations, feeding our need to connect to the natural world. He reshaped the landscape, to be sure, but in a way that lets organic nature shine through. Even such ostensibly wild places as Yosemite and Acadia National Parks show the marks of his civilizing influence.

Imagine what our cities and suburbs might be if those in charge of the planning and execution of public and private development were guided by Olmstedian principles. Instead, we have created landscapes that cater to automobiles, not people, even to the point of sacrificing the aesthetic integrity of some of our forbears' most precious gifts, such as Charles Eliot's system of metropolitan parks and parkways around Boston and Connecticut's Merritt Parkway.

If aliens from outer space visited this planet, they would quickly decide that the ruling beings have four wheels; certainly, the two-legged creatures seem eager to sacrifice to the automobile their time, fortune, and quality of life. Add a lane, pave it over, build a strip mall. If there is a shred of natural beauty left, erase it. All hail to the automobile. The automobile rules.

And now the spawn of the automobile has been unleashed even from the asphalt.

The automobile is here to stay, of course, and properly so, but we are not required to love it, or sacrifice everything to it. A house with a three- or four-car garage is unlikely to become a home. The number of miles on the odometer is a pretty good measure for how far we have gone from where we belong. We might have created a culture that emphasized place rather than mobility, nature rather than asphalt, public rather than personal transport. We chose not to and we are poorer for it.

Christmas Greeter

2007-12-18T17:32:00.001-08:00

Christmas Greeter, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

I like these wooden sentries at the entrance of Old Town Monrovia.

New Townhomes on Foothill

2007-12-18T17:31:00.001-08:00

New Townhomes on Foothill, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

I thought it was time to get a photo of these. They are just east of Myrtle on Foothill. I wonder how long it will take them to sell in this slow market?

A Cold Monrovia Day

2007-12-18T16:10:00.001-08:00

A Cold Monrovia Day, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

View of the mountains from Myrtle Avenue.

OPEN THREAD: Bringing your Dog

2007-12-18T13:52:00.001-08:00

I just read a great article in the New York Times about bringing your dog to work. I did this many years ago when doing a short term gig in San Francisco. It was wonderful. One of the reasons I work at home is to be with my dog during the day. How many of you Monrovians feel the same? Do any of you work for companies that allow you to bring your dog? Would you like it if more stores allowed you to bring your dog inside? (I love that Bank of America lets me take my poodle with me while I wait in line.) Would you like to see more dog friendly areas in town?

Cute Bungalow

2007-12-15T18:40:00.001-08:00

Cute Bungalow, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Just another cute bungalow in my neighborhood...

Winter Oranges

2007-12-15T18:19:00.001-08:00

Winter Oranges, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

It always surprises me when my fruit starts to turn color in December. These are from my neighbor's tree, illuminated by the late afternoon winter sun.

Tangled Beauty

2007-12-08T16:23:00.001-08:00

Tangled Beauty, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

There are so many lovely oak trees amidst the residential streets of Monrovia. They add such majestic beauty to a home, or even a street.

2007-11-30T13:00:00.001-08:00

According to the more current information available on the City's Website, the Colorado Commons construction has entered its last phase. The first residents are expected to move in by early February 2008.

Work on public improvements surrounding Colorado Commons -- sidewalks, landscaping, lighting, signage, etc. -- will begin the week of Dec. 3. Watch for traffic interuptions and possible street closures beginning that week on Primrose Avenue and both Lemon and Lime Avenues east of Myrtle Avenue.

OPEN THREAD: Myrtle and the 210

2007-11-29T16:20:00.001-08:00

It occurs to me that when people come into Monrovia via the Myrtle Avenue off-ramp, they are seeing a big sign that says "Mt. Sierra College" and not much else. In fact there is always trash that has collected next to the chainlink fence, and the whole area is rather unsightly. What are your ideas for making it a bit nicer? For one I think it could use a sign with an arrow that says "Old Town Monrovia."

Trolley!

2007-11-21T12:39:00.001-08:00

Trolley.jpg, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Our cute red and green trolley making the rounds. Would be fun if it were open with people hanging off the sides like in SF. Or maybe have private parties on the trolley on weekend nights...

Trilco Antiques

2007-11-19T23:46:00.001-08:00

TrilcoAntiques.jpg, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

I always enjoy going in here and browsing. They always have interesting stuff lying around. Makes me want to be an interior designer. I also like the leafy wall and the meandering sidewalk alongside some of the shops on Myrtle. It would be fun if eventually Monrovia had a number of walking trails that would go through both retail and parks and residential.

OPEN THREAD: What type of business would you like to see coming to old town?

2007-11-11T14:00:00.000-08:00

Looks like we are getting three new yogurt shops in old town: Sierra Cup, Pinkberry, and another one in the Von's Pavilions shopping center where the photo store is leaving. What sort of business would you like to see come to Old Town Monrovia?

Patty's Antiques

2007-11-11T13:51:00.001-08:00

PattysAntiques.jpg, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

I've never bought anything from Patty's Antiques, but not because I don't want to...! I do love looking at what they have for sale when I walk by. One of these days when my wallet is feeling heavy I will stop in and pick something out!

The Great Pirate Ship

2007-10-31T00:27:00.001-07:00

Main sail, flag and bow, originally uploaded by frazgo.

I'm going to have to trek over to W. Hillcrest to see this baby. Talk about getting into the holiday!!

Nice photo by Frazgo.

BEWARE

2007-10-31T00:25:00.001-07:00

P60833, originally uploaded by acmelucky777.

Nice shot of Halloween signage by Rüdiger R.

The Secret Pocket

2007-10-31T00:17:00.001-07:00

SecretPocket.jpg, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

I love this little yellow house across from the Peach Café. It's perfect for children's things!

Henna & Glitter

2007-10-27T21:07:00.001-07:00

Henna & Glitter, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

I swear next time I go to the street fair I'm going to get a temporary tattoo. I love tattoos but don't have any because I change my mind quite often as to what I like, so I can't commit to it.

I know that in the next year a company is coming out with a type of tattoo ink that is encapsulated in these tiny beads that will self-destruct when put under a laser, and the ink is absorbable by your body. This is definitely the kind of tattoo for me!

Until then, though, I may end up standing in this line for some temporary body art.

OPEN THREAD: How should I spend my birthday?

2007-10-26T00:21:00.001-07:00

Ok. I know it's tacky, but I'm announcing that yes, today is my birthday. Money is a bit tight, and I've decided to stay in Monrovia. What should I do? What would you do if you were going to stay in Monrovia and it was your birthday? Who can guess what I have planned? Hint: It costs less than $50.

Leaf

2007-10-26T00:11:00.001-07:00

Leaf, originally uploaded by ucicsboy.

The last few days we in Monrovia have been admonished to stay inside. I have done so, for the most part, but would step outside periodically just to see what was happening.

I have been watching the fires off and on for days, and feel the sadness and the devastating power of nature unleashed. At first, when my black poodle came in with white specs on him, I didn't know what it was, but then it sunk in that I was seeing ash that had been carried for miles on the wind from one of the many fires that continue to range on our landscape. This might be part of someone's home, I think.

I feel grateful that I am not in immediate danger, however, I know that our local hills are as much of a dry tinderbox as the areas that are currently burning. So if you are thinking of taking a hike, think again, as the local hiking trails are temporarily closed, as noted by the Monrovia Weekly:

A severe fire danger exists in local hillside areas. Monrovia Canyon Park and Chantry Flat Road have been closed to visitors. Bailey Canyon and Mt. Wilson Trail are also closed.

Local firefighters and police officers are patrolling hillside neighborhoods. All fire personnel have been recalled to duty and the Department is at full staffing.

Photo by Ray Vadnais

The Dollmakers

2007-10-25T23:44:00.001-07:00

Dollmakers.jpg, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

The other day I was walking my Standard Poodle, Theo, past the Dollmakers and he looked very startled and backed up a little after spotting their full sized stuffed dog in the window! I reassured him that it was okay, but I don't think he was entirely convinced.

The other odd thing about this shop is that many years ago, my father had a telephone that was registered to this address, but I didn't find the phone statement until it was too late to ask him. This was in the early 80s, when the family lived in Newport Beach. A little mystery that may never be solved...

Watching the Ponies

2007-10-22T22:51:00.001-07:00

Watching the Ponies, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

I'm not sure what it is about little girls and horses, but everytime I see the pony ride I want to be small again!

Jake's

2007-10-21T18:09:00.001-07:00

Jake's, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Outside Jake's Roadhouse during the Friday night festival...

MissPinky's

2007-10-19T22:10:00.001-07:00

MissPinky's, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Tonight's street Festival was busy as usual. I took my tripod and was able to shoot after dark.

Myrtle Avenue

2007-10-19T14:36:00.001-07:00

StreetViewMtns.jpg, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

We had some nice clouds the other day. Here's a shot looking up Myrtle Avenue in Old Town.

Mikomi Sushi

2007-10-18T19:37:00.001-07:00

Mikomi Sushi, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

I finally got a picture of Mikomi...I'm addicted to their Japanese Steak, and I also love their vegetable tempura, particularly the onions! Light and dreamy! The food has been quite good overall. The service, however, has been a bit spotty, particularly if you sit outside. Despite this, however, it is my favorite Japanese place of the moment.

The Neville Building

2007-10-18T16:23:00.001-07:00

The Neville Building, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Here's the doorway that goes with the antique ironwork I posted a few days ago...

The Tree

2007-10-18T16:05:00.001-07:00

TheTree.jpg, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

My version of the Library Park tree...I should know what kind it is...anyone?

Hot Shots Salon

2007-10-18T16:03:00.001-07:00

I don't always get shots of some of the shops in Old Town's sidestreets, so I thought it was about time to post on of this place.

Colorful Marquee

2007-10-18T15:39:00.001-07:00

KrikorianNight.jpg, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Here's a shot of the Krikorian I took last night with my new wide-angle lens...

Center Stage Academy

2007-10-17T22:35:00.001-07:00

Center Stage Academy, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

I have to say I am fond of their gray and red color scheme!

Family Hare Care

2007-10-16T13:17:00.001-07:00

Family Hare Care, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

One thing Monrovia has no shortage of is hair salons!

Alley Gate

2007-10-16T13:15:00.001-07:00

Alley Gate, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Sometimes three planks is all you need! I couldn't snapping a pic of this funky little back alley gate while walking around town.

Fun Funky Shoes

2007-10-15T18:31:00.001-07:00

Fun Funky Shoes, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Spotted these on the sidewalk in Old Town Monrovia! Their "owners" seemed happy to oblige my wacky request to photograph them...!

Halloween is near!

2007-10-13T13:14:00.001-07:00

Halloween is near, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Skull Scaping

2007-10-13T13:12:00.001-07:00

Skull Scaping, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Macabre landscaping as seen in Monrovia as residents ramp-up for Halloween.

Sierra Cup

2007-10-12T19:34:00.001-07:00

Sierra Cup, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Here's a new Internet Cafe opening up on Myrtle where the old Coffee Gallery used to be...

Lovely Antique Ironwork

2007-10-12T19:20:00.001-07:00

Lovely Antique Ironwork, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

I spotted this on a door in Old Town today for the first time. Whew! It reminds me of something you would see in an old European city. So pretty. Ok...so can you guess where it is?

Hollywood comes to Monrovia

2007-10-11T21:17:00.001-07:00

Snow in Monrovia, originally uploaded by Corey Porter.

It seems that our little city of Monrovia is once again a backdrop for Hollywood, this time for the series "October Road," which city officials say will be regularly shooting here. So get used to it folks...we are just irresistible.

Jumpin' Jalopy

2007-09-19T17:39:00.001-07:00

Jumpin' Jalopy, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Spotted this on Encinitas just north of Foothill. My eyes just about popped out of my head! I hope an old guy with a white beard drives it. Click on pic to see more of this old car.

Branches

2007-09-11T00:36:00.001-07:00

Tree - Monrovia Library Park, originally uploaded by MR38.

Great shot of the Library park tree by MR38!

Oak Park Motel

2007-09-11T00:17:00.001-07:00

Oak Park Motel, originally uploaded by benprks.

I do believe this place has been there for a number of years. If I recall I have an image of an old postcard of this place. I'll have to look back through my posts to find it!

Great shot by benprks.

23 ABOARD

2007-09-11T00:12:00.001-07:00

23 ABOARD, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Late night bus on Huntington Drive.

OPEN THREAD: Local Media Evolves

2007-09-09T13:17:00.000-07:00

The internet is changing the nature of television, and long-standing services, like public-access television, are in the position of re-defining their function. Sites like YouTube make it easier than ever for people to create and share their own movies. How would you like to see your local public-access station, K-GEM, evolve in the next few years?

Simon Rents

2007-09-09T13:06:00.001-07:00

Simon Rents, originally uploaded by benprks.

Nice shot of the Simon Rents sign by benprks.

Behold, a door!

2007-08-26T02:40:00.001-07:00

Behold, a door, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

And what lies inside yon door? Something about it makes me think of the super natural, no, the great beyond perhaps. Is it the pools out light in front of it? Or perhaps the glow from the lamp up above? What about the sunburst pattern above the door, further suggesting rays of light bursting from overhead? Finally, the unpotted urn, to your lower right as you approach. What does it make you think of? Any wild guesses to which place this door belongs astute readers?

LOVE SUMMER

2007-08-24T15:06:00.001-07:00

LOVE SUMMER, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

For some reason this stuck me as funny. What sort of controversy drove those responsible to post this particular missive? Were lots of people complaining about how much they hated summer? Did the higher-ups feel that summer was getting a bad rap? The answer: admonish everyone to LOVE SUMMER.

Monrovia Market

2007-08-22T22:18:00.001-07:00

Monrovia Market, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Looks like the market on Shamrock across from the park is undergoing a transformation! Seems there will be a restaurant attached. :)

OPEN THREAD: What first brought you to Monrovia?

2007-08-22T13:34:00.000-07:00

I first discovered Monrovia shortly before I started househunting, and I was so happy to find it. The city appealed to me on so many levels. I loved being near L.A., and yet got the small town feeling I craved.

Also, the locals were helpful and friendly, and hanging on out Myrtle on a weekend night was fun, and reminded me of Mayberry, or some other such mythical small town place.

I love walking and felt it would be easy to walk from many of the homes I saw for sale to shopping and movies. All in all I've been happy with my choice.

What first brought you to Monrovia? What makes you stay?

3 DAY SUITS

2007-08-21T16:15:00.001-07:00

3 DAY SUITS, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Didn't notice the real hand in the window until I looked an enlargement of this pic. My dog was barking intently while looking at the window and I thought he was just mistaking the mannequins for headless people. Ahem.

Aztec Hotel

2007-08-20T22:35:00.001-07:00

Aztec Hotel, originally uploaded by KeithJ.

Great shot of the Aztec Hotel by Keith J.

Wraps 360

2007-08-20T22:34:00.001-07:00

Lunch at Wraps 360, originally uploaded by Tales of an LA Addict.

I'm glad to see the Rosa at Wraps 360 is getting some appreciation. She makes terrific wrap sandwiches, as you can tell by this photo!

Streaming Light

2007-08-20T22:31:00.001-07:00

church in monrovia, originally uploaded by Joits.

Great shot by Joits of the church at Myrtle and Foothill.

Bienvenidos AMIGOS

2007-08-20T22:15:00.001-07:00

Buenvenidos AMIGOS, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Tonight I stopped by Los Guerros mexican restaurant tonight for some quick take-out. I love their crispy chicken tacos. They also make guacamole tableside, and the wait staff is very friendly!

OPEN THREAD: Public Spaces

2007-08-15T10:48:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking over the nature of community lately, and believe that its importance cannot be overemphasized. Take Monrovia, for example. Every Friday night the streets are filled with people walking, talking, and taking each other in. Of course, you say, it's the street fair. But if we look further, and take note that contributing to this is the absence of cars on Myrtle for a night, an area and time dedicated to getting people out and amongst each other.

Some people have said that they'd like to see the area Myrtle Avenue that bisects Old Town be free of cars to encourage walking. What do you think of this idea? I would love to hear relevent discussions from both points of view.

Kitty check-up at Huntington Veterinary Hospital

2007-08-13T20:35:00.001-07:00

Kitty check-up at Huntington Veterinary Hospital, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

I was taking photos today at Huntington Veterinary Hospital and couldn't resist posting a pic of this little guy!

Monrovia on Canvas

2007-08-12T19:43:00.001-07:00

monrovia, originally uploaded by alex_schaefer.

Nice painting by Alex Shaefer....!

Back Alley Beauty

2007-07-30T22:31:00.001-07:00

Green Door, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

I like that despite this entry is on a scruffy alley, it still has a certain grace to it.

Dark Door

2007-07-24T00:58:00.001-07:00

Dark Door, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Looks like someone was inspired by this door to carve on it...

Yellow Brick

2007-07-20T12:11:00.001-07:00

Yellow Brick, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

I love this yellow brick wall in the alley west of Myrtle.

The competition

2007-07-18T23:26:00.001-07:00

The competition, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Spotted these two at the dog park today. What a face that little guy has!

Chang Thai Bistro

2007-07-17T11:39:00.001-07:00

ar_chang_610.jpg, originally uploaded by somewhat unusual.

It appears that Chang Thai Bistro is now open. Can't wait to try!

Photo by Ashley Russell

Los Chilies Locos

2007-07-17T11:37:00.001-07:00

Los Chilies Locos, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Has anyone tried Los Chilies Locos? I am curious to hear some reviews...

Left Turn Only

2007-07-16T22:10:00.001-07:00

Left Turn Only, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Sometimes you just gotta go left.

Beauty Supply

2007-07-14T15:21:00.001-07:00

Beauty Supply, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Hmmmn, will be be the pink wig or the black one?

San Gabriel River Trail

2007-07-13T21:53:00.001-07:00

San Gabriel River Trail, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

More shots from the San Gabriel River Trail off Huntington Drive in Duarte.

San Gabriel River Trail, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Footprint Rock

2007-07-11T14:03:00.001-07:00

Footprint Rock, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Spotted this at the San Gabriel River Trail today. Looks just like a
footprint, but it's not, really.

Windmill against the sky

2007-07-08T22:55:00.001-07:00

Windmill against the sky, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Would be fun if Monrovia had a big windmill that generated electricity. I wonder why people don't do that anymore....this one is small, of course.

Bricks and Pipe

2007-07-07T00:34:00.001-07:00

Bricks and Pipe, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

A composition of sorts, with its own courtyard, in the heart of Old Town.

Monrovia Fireworks

2007-07-05T19:35:00.001-07:00

Monrovia Fireworks, originally uploaded by Anne Bonney.

A great shot of the fireworks from Stephanie.

Monrovia's Fourth

2007-07-05T08:37:00.000-07:00

Open Thread: How did you all feel about the 15 minutes of fireworks? Use the comments to discuss.

Shady Stairs

2007-07-04T07:44:00.001-07:00

Shady Stairs, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Happy Fourth everyone! I know it's going to be a scorcher so I thought I'd post a very "cool" photo of early morning shade. Remember today to be thankful for all of your freedoms and know that for them to work you have to speak up and take action. You may not feel that you can have a huge effect on federal government, but our local government is close by and available for you.

Nu Way Car Wash

2007-07-03T17:08:00.001-07:00

Nu Way Car Wash, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

I love the 50s retro of this car wash. Reminds me of something I'd see in Disneyland's original Tomorrowland...I wonder if it will get bulldozed when the train station goes in?

Shadow wall

2007-07-03T17:07:00.001-07:00

shadow wall, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Ok...this one is a bit harder. Does anyone know where this wall is?

Stix Rideshop

2007-07-02T09:34:00.001-07:00

Stix Rideshop, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

The Monrovia David

2007-07-02T09:02:00.001-07:00

The Monrovia David, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Props to anyone who can guess where our "David" is... :)

Early a.m. worker on the Colorado Commons development

2007-07-02T08:59:00.003-07:00

Early a.m. worker on the Colorado Commons development, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

The Heat has Arrived

2007-07-02T08:59:00.001-07:00

The Heat has Arrived, originally uploaded by Living in Monrovia.

Looks like summer is finally here in Monrovia. I read the other day
that this past winter was the driest on record since 1889. I guess
that means we have to be extra careful not to set off any kind of
fire. Doesn't take much in hot dry conditions like this.