Mayor Teresa Real Sebastian was sworn into office by her husband, Armen Sebastian on April10 during a Special Council Meeting.

Outgoing Mayor Mitch Ing welcomed everyone to this special meeting. He explained that every nine 1/2 months a Councilmember is rotated into the mayor ship during their four year term.

Callie, Stephanie, Natalie, Julie and Francesca, who are young friends of the mayor, led the flag salute.

Pastor Mamie Ko from the Shepherd of the Hills Methodist Church led the invocation. She said it is a joy to see Teresa Real Sebastian in leadership. She asked God to bless and guide her.

Mayor Ing joked that he has been given a five-minute time limit to give his farewell speech by Mayor Real Sebastian. It has been an honor to serve Monterey Park as a mayor for two terms. He owes his wife, Gloria, for his success.  He thanked his children for their love and support. He and his wife will continue to serve the community. They support the students with scholarships for high school students. He will continue his support of the Mark Keppel band. He helps grad students with internships in their fields. He is proud to help young students get ahead in the world. He told a story of an elderly couple in the 80s holding hands as they crossed the street before the light changed. He stated that age would never diminish his love for Gloria. He is a lucky guy.

Mitch Ing presented Teresa Real Sebastian with a plant and flowers decorated with bunny rabbits in honor of her love for her little furry pets.

Mitch Ing received a proclamation and praise from Tommy Tseng a representative of Congressmember Judy Chu.

Alhambra Councilmember Barbara Messina presented Mitch Ing with a proclamation and a thank you for his service to the community.

Rosemead Councilmember Margaret Clark presented Mitch Ing with a proclamation and praise for his service to the community.

Alhambra School Boardmember Bob Gin presented Mitch Ing with a proclamation and a thank you for his service to the schools.

Mitch Ing received a proclamation and praise from Monterey Park’s Rotary Club President David Anantasin for his service to the community.

Los Angeles Community College District Trustee Mike Eng swore Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Mayor Anthony Wong into office.

Anthony Wong received flowers from Panya Friendship City.

Gail Price was the Mistress of Ceremony. She introduced the special guests that included Tommy Tseng, Joseph Leon, Rita Valenzuela, Pat Reichenberger, David Barron, Barbara Messina, Margaret Clark, Bob Gin, Dr. Sophie Wong, Thomas Wong, Francisco Alonso, Mike Cacciotti and World War II Veteran Sgt. William Sanchez. She also introduced members of the Real and Sebastian extended family to the audience.

Ms. Price introduced her friend Teresa Real Sebastian to the guests. Mayor Real Sebastian, a local resident, was educated at Sacred Heart High School, Cal Poly Pomona and Whittier College School of Law. In 1993 she passed the bar. She practiced law for 15 years in the financial and entertainment industries. She founded a private commercial real estate company after receiving her Broker’s license 20 years ago.  She cares for our environment and animals.  She rescued their dog, Charley and has pet rabbits. She is smart and well prepared. She stands up for the citizens of Monterey Park. Ms. Price stated that she is proud to know Teresa Real Sebastian.

Armen Sebastian and Teresa Real Sebastian met 25 years ago and will be celebrating their 15-year wedding anniversary in August.

Former Mayor Rita Valenzuela presented the official business cards to Mayor Teresa Real Sebastian.

Former Mayor Pat Reichenberger presented a new nametag to Mayor Teresa Real Sebastian.

Gail Price presented the gavel of office to Mayor Teresa Real Sebastian.

Mayor Teresa Real Sebastian and Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Mayor Anthony Wong sitting in their new seats of power.

Alhambra Councilmember Barbara Messina presented proclamations and words of praise to Mayor Teresa Real Sebastian and Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Mayor Anthony Wong.

Rosemead Councilmember Margaret Clark presented proclamations and words of praise to Mayor Teresa Real Sebastian and Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Mayor Anthony Wong.

Alhambra School Boardmember Bob Gin presented a proclamation and words of praise to Mayor Teresa Real Sebastian.

Monterey Park’s Rotary Club President David Anantasin presented a proclamation and words of praise to Mayor Teresa Real Sebastian.

Mayor Teresa Real Sebastian received flowers from Panya Friendship City.

Mayor Real Sebastian said I sit here humbly as your mayor. We came together as a community. We are a diamond in the rough. We need to smooth out the rough edges. Our city is seven 1/2 miles wide with 13 parks. 30 different ethnic groups live side by side. She will work to make Monterey Park a better city. Everyone must contribute to the city. She gave a progress report on the city to the audience. She supports a green environment and wants the 710 Freeway completed. The city requires open bids for all services. She will bring more stores into the city. She supports Neighborhood Watch and public safety. She volunteers for the youth and the seniors. She thanked the staff, sponsors, residents and volunteers for this event. She stated the she invited women and girls to participate in this event. She thanked Rita Valenzuela, Pat Reichenberger and Betty Tom Chu for being her mentors. Now days many avenues are opened to young ladies. Take note that older women are celebrated tonight with support from men. She thanked everyone for their loyalty and support.  She is your advocate. She thanked her husband, Armen Sebastian, and their family for their love and support.  Our city motto is “Pride in the Past” and “Faith in the Future”. She asked the residents what would you put into the future of Monterey Park? Thank you from a humble and grateful heart.

Mayor Real Sebastian adjourned the meeting and invited everyone to enjoy the delicious food donated by local eateries.