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- Issue #055
Issue #055
Walnut Creek's Latest Amendment Faces Free Speech Concerns; Plus, Unwind with Moss Art & Matchmaking at Rotator Taproom!
In This Walnut Creek Spotlight Issue…
New Amendment to Curb Protestor Noise at Planned Parenthood Sparks Free Speech Debate in Walnut Creek
Nature Meets Nurture: Rotator Taproom's Evening of Moss Art and Matchmaking!
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New Amendment to Curb Protestor Noise at Planned Parenthood Sparks Free Speech Debate in Walnut Creek
The Walnut Creek City Council is poised to enhance an ordinance aimed at diminishing noise and harassment around the local Planned Parenthood facility on Oakland Boulevard. This initiative arises in response to numerous complaints from residents and businesses about the disruptive conduct of protesters, which includes loud speech and music. In a bid to foster a quieter environment, the council is considering a ban on the use of sound amplifiers like bullhorns within 100 feet of the health center's entrances. The proposed amendment is a follow-up to a 2022 ordinance that established an 8-foot buffer zone around Planned Parenthood entrances to protect access and maintain public safety. The adjustment to the ordinance reflects the city's ongoing efforts to balance free speech rights with the need to ensure unobstructed access to healthcare services and a peaceful community atmosphere.
Despite the intended purpose of the amendment to safeguard both patients and residents from excessive noise, the proposal has ignited a debate between Planned Parenthood supporters and anti-abortion advocates. Supporters argue that the noise generated by protestors using sound amplifiers disrupts patient care and contributes to an environment of intimidation and distress. In contrast, anti-abortion advocates contend that the restrictions infringe upon their First Amendment rights, hindering their ability to communicate with patients entering the facility. The city's Assistant City Attorney, Ali Wolf, underscored the necessity of the ordinance by highlighting the adverse effects of amplified noise on patient health, including increased stress and anxiety. Meanwhile, opponents of the amendment, including members of the sidewalk outreach ministry group Love Life, assert that the amplification devices are essential tools for engaging with patients due to existing barriers that limit their ability to offer counseling and support.
The council is scheduled to conduct a final reading of the ordinance amendment in the upcoming week, with its enactment anticipated 30 days thereafter. This legislative move reflects Walnut Creek's commitment to ensuring a balanced approach that respects both the rights of individuals to protest and the rights of patients seeking medical care in a safe and tranquil environment.
Nature Meets Nurture: Rotator Taproom's Evening of Moss Art and Matchmaking!
Rotator Taproom, a popular local venue in Walnut Creek, has announced a vibrant line-up of events aimed at bringing the community together. In a refreshing twist, the taproom combines the spirit of creativity with social interaction.
On Friday, April 5th, Rotator Taproom will be a hub of activity, starting with the Moss Art Workshop from 6-7 PM. The workshop, in collaboration with Planting Nancies, promises a hands-on experience in creating unique preserved moss art. Attendees will have a variety of moss textures, shapes, and colors at their disposal, along with all necessary tools, to craft a personal green masterpiece. Participants will also receive a care card, plant advice, and their first beverage, all for the price of the ticket.
The evening continues with a Spring Speed Dating event from 8-10 PM, offering an opportunity for singles in the area to meet and mingle. Set in an engaging and relaxed atmosphere, the speed dating session encourages participants to forge new connections, with laughter and conversation as the backdrop. The event ensures privacy and comfort, with the upstairs area designated for the occasion, while the taproom remains open to regular patrons downstairs.
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Inside Walnut Creek: Updates and Events with City Manager Dan Buckshi
Get the latest on Walnut Creek Recreation's Transportation Program, the Walnut Creek Jazz Band Benefit Concert, upcoming Lesher Center performances, and more from Walnut Creek’s City Manager, Dan Buckshi.
Community
Tai Chi: @ Walnut Creek Library - Mondays at 10:15 AM Learn More
Hooked on Books: @ Civic Park Community Center - 1st Tuesday of each month at 12:30 PM Learn More
Qi Gong Drop-In (Seniors): @ Civic Park Community Center - Wednesdays at 12 PM
Bridge Drop-In (Seniors): @ Civic Park Community Center - Wednesdays at 12:30 PM
Mah Jong Drop-In (Seniors): @ Civic Park Community Center - Wednesdays at 1 PM
Bingo Drop-In (Seniors): @ Civic Park Community Center - Thursdays at 12 PM
Native Plant Growers: @ Civic Park Community Center - Fridays at 11 AM
Farmer’s Market Walnut Creek: @ Locust St - Sundays at 9 AM. Learn More
Kids
Peek-A-Book Storytime: @ Ygnacio Valley Library - Tuesdays at 10:15 AM Learn More
Baby Storytime: @ Walnut Creek Library - Tuesdays at 12 PM Learn More
Family Storytime: @ Ygnacio Valley Library - Thursdays at 10:15 AM Learn More
Toddler Storytime & Play: @ Walnut Creek Library - Thursdays at 10:15 AM Learn More
Arts & Crafts
Food & Drink
Trivia + Karaoke Night: @ Retro Junkie - Wednesdays at 6 PM
Trivia: @ Mike Hess Brewing - Wednesdays at 6 PM
Geeks Who Drink Trivia: @ Rotator Taproom - Wednesdays at 6:30 PM
Karaoke Wednesday: @ Bourbon Highway - Wednesdays at 8 PM. Watch Video
Live Music/Dance
Salsa Tuesdays: @ Retro Junkie - Tuesdays at 6 PM. Watch Video
Line Dancing Lessons: @ Bourbon Highway - Tuesday, Thursday - Saturday at 8 PM. Watch Video
Red Hot & The Saltines + The Great Space Coaster! 70s-90s Rock (Free Tix!) @ Retro Junkie- 4/4 at 6 PM. Learn More
ROSES N’ GUNS (Guns N’ Roses Tribute) + MAIDEN UNITED (Iron Maiden Tribute) @ Retro Junkie- 4/6 at 6 PM. Learn More
Theatre
The Great Leap: @ Lesher Center of the Arts - 3/16 - 4/7. Tickets
Best of San Francisco Stand Up Comedy: @ Lesher Center of the Arts - 2/24 - 8/31 on Saturdays. Tickets
Add Your Event: https://bayareabizfinder.com/events/community/add/
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