Mayor Joins Efforts Calling for Budget Compromise at Federal Level

With the $1.2 trillion across-the-board cuts scheduled to go into effect March 1, news agencies continue to report of the impacts that sequestration may have to governments, cities, states and the nation. Here is one article that details what sequestration is. And here is a link that details what this means to LA County.

The City of Monrovia has been monitoring these cuts for several months. Today, Mayor Mary Ann Lutz joined the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation, along with regional economic development advocates, cities and defense companies, calling on our U.S. State Senators Diane Feinstein and Barbara Boxer to find a "grand bargain" with "a balanced and comprehensive package of solutions that include: tax code reform; entitlement reform; Workforce Investment Act (WIA) reauthorization; and short- and long-term job growth and economic prosperity strategies," according to the letter.

The impacts of sequestration to Monrovia businesses alone are significant. 

Back in October, the City of Monrovia released information that reported that local defense companies including could be impacted. More than 1,000 people are employed by Monrovia companies that have defense contracts. In some cases, up to 80 percent of the contracts that these companies have are defense related. 

Should the sequestration cuts move forward, it has the potential to curtail defense contracts, which could ultimately lead to job losses at these locations.

Hong Kong Supermarket Celebrates Opening

Customers filled the store on Thursday as dignitaries celebrated the grand opening of Hong Kong Supermarket in front of the store, located at 935 W. Duarte Road.

New Smoothie, Nutrition Store Opens in Old Town

When you order a smoothie at New Liberty Nutrition, you get more than a $6.50 shake. You also get an aloe drink, an herbal tea and access to free bootcamp, weight management and sport nutrition advice.

Wellness Coach Sherry Shi is now on her second day of running her business at 139 E. Lemon Avenue. For her, the reason she decided to open her business here was that Monrovia appeared to have fit and friendly people.

Bistro 21: Kobe Ranch Steak or Seared Scallops with Truffles?

Even though the early morning fog has burned off, a chill in the air still lingers. And with two more hours left until noon, you find yourself wondering, "What should I have for lunch today?"

You want something warm, somewhere cozy. Somewhere where you can order an espresso, a bowl of soup or an entree reminiscent of that trip you took to Paris.

Ok. Maybe that's not exactly what  you are thinking, but if you have a hankering for something French, today may just be the day you give Bistro 21 a try. This French Bistro opened a few months ago in Old Town Monrovia at 110 E. Lime Avenue, where Baldwin's Baked Potatoes was formerly located. 

There are always a couple of specials for lunch in addition to things like the Cream of Potato soup, a colorful beet salad, or the slow braised beef short ribs served over mash potatoes. Yelpers, you know that five stars are hard to come by, yet Bistro 21 has been able to maintain that status. Here is the Yelp review.

So grab your beret, brush up on your French, and stop by Bistro 21 for lunch. Bon Appetit!

Celebrate Grand Opening at Xylem Spa

Xylem Spa and Salon, which recently underwent a renovation, is hosting a Grand Opening Celebration from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday, February 10 at the salon, 198 S. Myrtle Avenue.

According to a press release, the celebration will include a journey throughout the Salon and Spa to experience complimentary Aveda Sensory Rituals for skin, body, hair and make-up, along with complimentary gift bags, and exclusive incentives. 

"Spa Xylem is an elegant oasis in the heart of historic Old Town Monrovia, embracing AVEDA’s mission.  AVEDA’S signature organic treatments will awake your spirit and invigorate your senses.  The team at Xylem’s luxurious Spa is eager to nurture, nourish and replenish your senses.  Every detail has been considered, every need anticipated and every luxury indulged," the press release stated.

To RSVP, contact 626.539.3244 

American Express Filmed Commercial in Old Town

Skunk Productions filmed a national American Express commercial on Thursday morning in Old Town. The commercial will promote Small Business Saturday.

In the past some of our merchants were actually participants of Small Business Saturday, which is a program that promotes businesses just like the ones we have in Old Town Monrovia.

It was a one day filming. The crew and extras were seen on the 400 block yesterday morning. The extras had shopping bags and were walking and sitting along Myrtle.

Check out the City's twitter account for a photo at https://mobile.twitter.com/MonroviaCA/status/297045618650673152