As I was strolling in downtown Walnut Creek recently, I spotted this giant butterfly art piece right where Forever 21 used to be. It turns out this is from the same artist who made one of the painted pianos last year. Check out the artist, Ally McKay’s Insta page here. I think I’m most inspired when I don’t expect to see artwork in public. It lightens my mood especially in these times wearing a mask. How does public art inspire you?
Iron Horse Plaza, Danville
Provence Pizzas opened recently at Iron Horse Plaza where Forge used to be. Check out their menu here. I look forward to trying this place out!
From their website:
We use an imported Italian Valoriani oven to prepare almost 80% of our menu items, including our famous Neapolitan-style pizza with its slightly charred crust exploding with flavor. We also use only superior local, organic, and seasonal ingredients, including hard cheeses that can stand up to the heat of our 850-degree ovens!
To support the Walnut Creek Downtown Association, check out the Go Fund Me charity campaign here.
From the Walnut Creek Downtown Association:
For the first time in the 20-year history of Walnut Creek Downtown (WCD) we are faced with a severe budget shortfall. Our goal is to raise $50,000 to cover the loss of our 2020 revenue and to help sustain the organization during Covid-19. Have you ever attended Walnut Creek First Wednesday’s or Oktoberfest? How about Walnut Creek Uncorked or Holiday Stroll? These beloved, long-running Walnut Creek events generate 70% of Walnut Creek Downtown’s income and drive significant foot traffic and sales to the downtown.
Walnut Creek will be back stronger than ever. But right now, we need your support now more than ever. Every contribution will go towards providing valuable services to our community-just as we’ve been doing for the past 20 years.
1525 Locust St, Walnut Creek
They have been open for a while now but Pop Up Pizazz, a party supply company with lots of cool balloon designs, opened in downtown Walnut Creek several months ago.
From their website:
As restrictions ease up, we’ll be ready to help you truly celebrate, whether you’re throwing a backyard party for 10 or a microwedding for your favorite 20 family members. We’ll bring our thoughtful design and creative flair and you can feel like a guest at your own houseparty!
Over the weekend I saw a large contingent of Black Lives Matters protesters march down Main St. in downtown Walnut Creek as they formed a circle in a couple of different sections at Broadway Plaza as they shouted in a megaphone to keep the Black Lives Matter movement alive.
1403 N. Main St, Walnut Creek
Last month we learned that Jos. A. Bank closed in Lafayette and now, thanks to a reader for sending word that they have also closed in downtown Walnut Creek. According to an employee I spoke with, most locations are closing in the west coast with the exception of Sacramento for some reason.
Thanks to a reader for sending word that Coffee Shop, which opened a couple of years ago in Danville, has closed. Not surprising considering that only outdoor dining is permitted these days. Do you miss hanging out at a cafe while sipping a cafe latte? Or have you gotten used to making coffee at home? Have you upgraded your coffee making process? Bought a frother? I’m a tea drinker and brew mostly the same teas, in the same way as before. Maybe it’s time to find something new to drink while at home.
A couple of days ago Contra Costa County passed an emergency ordinance to issue fines for Health Order Violations. Read the ordinance here. Check out all the health orders here.
From the PR:
For health order violations involving non-commercial activities, the amount of the fine is $100 for a first violation, $200 for a second violation, and $500 for each additional violation within one year of the initial violation. For violations involving commercial activity, the amount of the fine is $250 for a first violation, $500 for a second violation, and $1,000 for each additional violation within one year of the initial violation. If a violation continues for more than one day, each day is a separate violation.
Broadway Pointe, Walnut Creek
Last month we learned that the Broadway Pointe parking garage in downtown Walnut Creek was going to start charging for access, and now we know by how much. They offer the first 30 minutes free. How generous! 2-4 hours is $10 and 5+ hours will set you back $30. Which private parking lot will be the next to start charging…
Crossroads of Danville
A new restaurant called Gmama Halal Indian Food is coming to Crossroads of Danville (480 San Ramon Valley Blvd.) where Kohala Kitchen used to be. Stay tuned…