TOGETHER WITH

Good morning, Walnut Creek! As we step into a new week, let's channel our unstoppable energy and positive vibes into every challenge and opportunity. With clear skies ahead, today is a blank page and you hold the pen. Make it a masterpiece. Happy Monday! ☀️✨

In today’s Walnut Creek Spotlight:

• Motivational Monday

• Lafayette and Walnut Creek Residents Advised to Prepare for Smoke from Prescribed Burns

• Walnut Creek to Discuss Zoning Changes for Faith-Based ADUs and Density Bonuses

• Walnut Creek’s First Wednesday: A Perfect Evening of Community and Creativity!

- Walnut Creek Spotlight Team

WEATHER

Cardona Landscape

Enhance your home's curb appeal with Cardona Landscape, where every project is a masterpiece tailored to your vision. Contact us today to create your dream outdoor space with our expert landscaping solutions!

MOTIVATIONAL MONDAY

LOCAL NEWS

Lafayette and Walnut Creek Residents Advised to Prepare for Smoke from Prescribed Burns

Lafayette and Walnut Creek residents are preparing for prescribed burns scheduled by Contra Costa Fire. Starting May 1, these burns are part of the Lafayette/Walnut Creek Shaded Fuel Break Project, designed to lessen wildfire risks by removing potential fire fuels. The public should expect smoke; those nearby are advised to keep their homes closed to avoid smoke infiltration. The fire department has highlighted the importance of safety and comfort during this period, suggesting residents keep windows and doors closed during active burning hours. Forest management experts support these preventive actions as essential for reducing future wildfire intensities and frequencies. Information about specific burn locations and times will be communicated in advance to allow residents to prepare, particularly those with respiratory conditions.

Walnut Creek to Discuss Zoning Changes for Faith-Based ADUs and Density Bonuses

On May 9, 2024, the Walnut Creek Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing at 6 p.m. to discuss significant changes to local zoning laws, as part of the city's strategy to meet its housing targets from 2023 to 2031. The meeting will focus primarily on two key amendments.

The first amendment will introduce the possibility of constructing Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on faith-based properties, such as churches and other religious facilities, which is a shift from the current regulation that limits ADUs to residential properties only. This initiative, aligned with Housing Element Program H.2.Q, aims to expand housing options on these underutilized lands.

The second proposal involves updates to the Density Bonus Ordinance, in line with state requirements, to better incentivize developers to invest in affordable housing projects. These updates are crucial to align with recent changes in state laws that offer developers additional benefits for including affordable units in their projects.

The Planning Commission's role will be to review these proposals and make recommendations to the City Council. The final decision will be made by the City Council in a session scheduled for June 18, 2024, following a public review on June 4, 2024. Citizens are encouraged to participate in this process by providing feedback. Further information can be obtained from Aaron Sage, Principal Planner, or by accessing the draft ordinances on the city’s website before the meeting.

Walnut Creek’s First Wednesday: A Perfect Evening of Community and Creativity!

Walnut Creek's First Wednesday Street Fest, set on Locust Street and Cypress Street, extends a warm invitation to the community to revel in its festive atmosphere. Scheduled for the evenings of May 1st and August 7th from 5:30 to 9:00 PM, these events spotlight local businesses and the arts, encouraging attendees to shop, dine, and relax. This pet-friendly gathering promises a delightful mix of over 50 artisan vendors, mouthwatering food options, and live music. The event's highlights include themed activities that vary by month, adding a unique touch to each occasion, and enhancing the community's engagement and enjoyment.

EVENTS

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

Theatre

Best of San Francisco Stand Up Comedy: @ Lesher Center of the Arts - 2/24 - 8/31 on Saturdays. Tickets

Community

Tai Chi: @ Walnut Creek Library - Mondays at 10:15 AM Learn More

Participants will learn the basic movements of Tai chi which are a series of postures done in sequence, that looks like a slow-motion dance. Participants will learn the basic movements of Tai chi which are a series of postures done in sequence, that looks like a slow motion dance.

Hooked on Books: @ Civic Park Community Center - 1st Tuesday of each month at 12:30 PM Learn More

A different book is discussed each month. 1st Tuesday of the month, 12:30 pm - 2:00 pm

Qi Gong Drop-In (Seniors): @ Civic Park Community Center - Wednesdays at 12 PM

Slow meditative stretching. No experience is needed. Weekly, Wednesdays from 11:50 - 12:10 PM. Civic Park, Assembly Hall.

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.

The Walnut Creek Market, open Sundays 9 am-1 pm year-round on Locust Street between Cole and Lacassie streets, is easily accessible with proximity to BART. It features local produce and goods, supports sustainability, and offers free first-hour parking at Grower’s Square on Sundays. Only certified service animals are allowed. For more information, visit their website here.

Diablo Valley Farmers’ Market @ Shadelands - Saturdays at 9 AM

Located in Walnut Creek's Shadelands Business Park, the Diablo Valley Farmers' Market is a lively community gathering with over 40 vendors. Open Saturdays from 9 AM to 1 PM, it offers fresh produce from nearby Brentwood and features a Kid’s Craft Corner, making it a popular spot for families. Voted #1 in America’s Favorite Farmers’ Market contest, it's a cherished local destination. For more information, visit their website.

Kids

Peek-A-Book Storytime: @ Ygnacio Valley Library - Tuesdays at 10:15 AM.

Peek-A-Book Storytime is a playful event for ages 0-2 at Ygnacio Valley Library in Walnut Creek, CA, featuring books, songs, and activities to enhance early literacy skills. Held on Tuesdays from 10:15 AM to 11:15 AM. Learn More

Baby Storytime: @ Walnut Creek Library - Tuesdays at 12 PM

The Walnut Creek Library hosts Baby Storytime every Tuesday from April 9 to April 30, 2024, from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM. Parents and caregivers with babies aged 0-1 are invited to enjoy stories, songs, and interactive activities. No registration is required for this engaging and nurturing experience designed for the youngest attendees. 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

Know an event for arts & craft? Email us [email protected]

👉 CLICK TO SEE OUR FULL CALENDAR 👈

Add Your Event: https://bayareabizfinder.com/events/community/add/d/

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

Become A Walnut Creek Spotlight Sponsor

Are you a brand new or established business looking to become known in our Walnut Creek community? We are looking for locally-owned businesses that would like to become a Walnut Creek Spotlight sponsor! Sponsorships can include:

• Hero or Section banners

• Logo

• Video

• Print

• Spotlight Directory

• & More…

Reach out to us at [email protected]

We Want To Spotlight Local Businesses!

Would you like us to spotlight your local business in front of thousands of Walnut Creek area residents in an upcoming issue of Walnut Creek Spotlight? Apply Here. Not a business owner, but love a local business? Tell us all about it - send us an email at [email protected]

How Did We Do In This Issue Of Walnut Creek Spotlight?