By Pam Fitzpatrick
Some columns are easier to write than others. This one is difficult because two of my friends here in Old Town are closing their stores. Each of them deserve my full attention, so here goes…
Don Collins and his Family Affair Music (510 S. Myrtle) have been a staple in Old Town Monrovia for 45 years. Don has been a music lover all his life: he was a member of the Monrovia High School choir and sang in a band as a hobby (thank you Monrovia Weekly article from 2016), and is a self-taught guitarist. In 1972 the business climate in Old Town was just right for Don – the malls were gaining in popularity, and rent was cheap here in downtown. Not so today: the malls are losing steam, but online shopping is hurting small retail. Add to that, rising lease/rent rates and you have the perfect storm. Don will be here in Old Town with us until the end of the year – please drop in, say “hi,” and watch for sales notices.
Next, we are losing Pat Fore and her family business, Candy Connection (521 S. Myrtle). This announcement has been a shock for some, and a realization of what we know has been Pat’s dream for others. Pat and her husband have been wanting to retire for quite some time now, and the sale of their business has made this dream a reality. All I can gather is that it sold to a “foodie” business, not a restaurant, different than anything we have in town (per Pat). The closest I’ve gotten her to tell me is that it’s is some kind of frozen desert treat with fruit. Pat’s last day will be September 29th, so LET’S GO BUY CANDY!
And here’s some buzz around town: Copper Still Grill just received their final Certificate of Occupancy from the City, so we should see a grand opening soon. Most of you have noticed that they’ve been open here and there, mostly evenings, testing out menu items and preparing for the big day. We wish them well. Also, after all of the wait, and all of the speculation about “Frost” or “Frost My Cake,” the bakery that was supposed to open in the 500 block of east Myrtle is not going to open – as a bakery, that is. “My sources say” (don’t you hate that….) that the owners of the building have leased the space to a specialty donut shop. The new business owners are super nice, friendly, and anxious to be in Old Town. I believe they have one or more other shops, so they’re not novices. I’m thinking that a really good donut shop would add lots to Old Town!
And I’ll end with one more round of kudos to Wil up at the Community Center for his excellent senior stretch and balance classes. Participants say, the only one you’re competing with in Wil’s class, is yourself. So, go see Wil on Mondays (1-2 p.m.), Thursdays (12-1 p.m.), and Fridays (9-10 a.m.).
