❤️ In this issue of Pasadena Spotlight 

🌤️ Pasadena, CA Weather

🚨 Metro Station Attack: 66-Year-Old Pasadena Resident Injured, Suspect at Large

💣 Pasadena's Las Encinas Hospital Receives Bomb Threat, No Explosives Located

🥨 Wetzel’s Pretzels Celebrates 30 Years with 400th Store Opening

🏡 Pasadena's Washington Park Community House to Debut on January 13, 2024

😃 Viral Meme

✨ We Want To Spotlight Your Business!

🗓️ Upcoming Local Events

Pasadena's weather on Friday, January 5, will offer a delightful mix of cloudy, sunny, and clear skies. In the morning, expect mostly cloudy conditions with temperatures ranging from 44° to 51°. Dress in light layers, such as a sweater or jacket, to accommodate the slight chill.

By noon, the clouds will part, giving way to sunshine and warmer temperatures of 58°-60°. You can shed the layers and enjoy the mild weather in a simple t-shirt or blouse. The light breeze will provide a refreshing touch.

During the afternoon, the mercury will rise to 62° under the bright sun. Opt for short-sleeved shirts or dresses to enjoy the warmth. The wind will remain light, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

As evening falls, the temperature will drop to 50°-54°, with clear skies and a slight breeze. Don your favorite sweater or light jacket to stay comfortable. The evening is ideal for stargazing or a late-night walk.

Metro Station Attack: 66-Year-Old Pasadena Resident Injured, Suspect at Large

On Tuesday, a 66-year-old Pasadena resident was assaulted and injured with a scooter after declining to sell cigarettes to a man near the North Lake Avenue overpass above the Metro Station. The unidentified 20-year-old Hispanic male suspect, believed to be a transient, remains at large.

The victim was approached by the suspect, who asked to purchase cigarettes. Upon the victim's refusal, the suspect allegedly struck him with a metal scooter he was carrying. The victim managed to block the blow with his hand, sustaining a laceration and bruising.

The suspect was last seen wearing a light blue T-shirt and sweatpants of an unknown color. He fled the scene on foot, leaving the victim injured. Despite a search by responding officers, the suspect has not been located.

The victim declined medical treatment, and the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about this case is encouraged to contact the Pasadena Police or report information anonymously through Crime Stoppers.

Pasadena's Las Encinas Hospital Receives Bomb Threat, No Explosives Located

On Tuesday, January 2nd, a bomb threat was reported at Las Encinas Hospital in Pasadena after an employee received an email from an unknown sender stating that explosives had been placed at the facility. The employee received the email on January 1st but did not read it until the following day.

After reviewing a secondary email from the same sender, the employee conducted a search of the facility but found nothing suspicious. Pasadena police also conducted a brief search and found nothing. The employee did not believe the threat to be credible.

No explosives were found during the search, and no suspects have been identified. The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information about this case is encouraged to contact the Pasadena Police or report information anonymously through Crime Stoppers.

Wetzel’s Pretzels Celebrates 30 Years with 400th Store Opening

Wetzel’s Pretzels, a well-known national pretzel brand born and raised in Pasadena, is set to open its 400th store in 2024, marking its 30th anniversary. The company expanded by approximately 40 new stores in 2023 and entered the international market with a location in Toronto.

Wetzel’s Pretzels COO and Brand Leader, Vincent Montanelli, said, "In 2023, we set the new standard as to what a pretzel brand can achieve.

Our current momentum combined with our growth strategy and development goals positions us as a standout leader in the snacking industry."

The company introduced Twisted by Wetzel’s, a streetside concept that revolutionizes the pretzel experience, with three locations launched nationwide. Wetzel’s Pretzels also advocated for greater inclusion within the restaurant industry through its Access to Equity Program in 2023.

For 2024, Wetzel’s Pretzels plans to introduce new and innovative food items and bring back some classic pretzel favorites to keep the brand fresh and exciting in the snack industry.

Pasadena's Washington Park Community House to Debut on January 13, 2024

The City of Pasadena is thrilled to announce the grand opening of the Washington Park Community House on Saturday, January 13, 2024, from 10 a.m. to noon, at Washington Park, 700 E. Washington Blvd.

The new facility, which includes a multi-purpose room, kitchenette, gender-neutral restroom, storage room, accessible office for recreation staff, Wi-Fi, and outdoor gathering space, will serve as a hub for various events and activities.

The grand opening will feature a celebration filled with exciting activities for people of all ages, including program demonstrations, information booths, live music, arts and crafts, and more. For more information, please call (626) 744-7330 or email [email protected].

We Want To Spotlight Your Business ✨

Would you like us to spotlight your local business in front of thousands of Pasadena area residents in an upcoming issue of Pasadena Spotlight & on our social media?



We ❤️ Local Businesses!



We know our community is brimming with businesses that fascinating stories and big hearts.



If you’re a local business owner making waves, crafting unique experiences, or simply putting a smile on our faces, we want to chat with you!



“Pasadena Spotlight” is eager to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our town.

Let’s collaborate and let the community know what makes your business special. 

Send us a message, and let’s celebrate the spirit of Pasadena together

👇 Select an option below:

✅ Own a local business? Apply to be featured.

❤️ Love a local business? Nominate them.

Upcoming Local Events

Friday January, 5

Monthly Food Bank Distribution - 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Bilingual Drop-In Talks: Zhou Dunyi Admiring Lotuses - 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Free First Friday - 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Alison Dundes Renteln discusses International Human Rights - 7:00 p.m.

Saturday January, 6

Pasadena Farmers' Market at Victory Park - 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Meet Me in the Garden - 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

The Art Deco Architecture of the Playhouse District - New Tour! - 10:00 a.m.

Winter Frolic - All day event

Beginner Sewing - Wildlife Project (Ages 14+) - 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Storytime @ Vroman's Hastings Ranch - 10:30 a.m.

140th Anniversary Celebration Kick-off Event & 10-Year Time Capsule - 11:00 a.m.

Vroman's Special Storytime featuring Marcia and Kori Withers presenting Grandma's Hands - 11:00 a.m.

The Gibbs Sisters discusses and signs Ghost Roast - 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Cool Nights Comedy - 7:30 p.m.

Cat Ce & Friends - 9:30 p.m.

Sunday January, 7

Pop-Up Adoption Event at PCC Flea Market - 8:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Crafts with Carmen at Vroman's Hastings Ranch! - 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Beethoven Symphony No. 9 "Daiku" - 4:00 p.m.

Enchanted Forest of Light - 5:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Nalo J. Stewart discusses and signs "Narration After Dark" - 6:00 p.m.