T Two Years Stay in the Know As Downtown Evolves

No. 168 Newsletter of the City of Walnut Creek WINTER 2014-15

CENTENNIAL GROVE DEDICATION. The Centennial Grove at Heather Farm Park, a legacy gift to the future in honor of Walnut Creek’s 100th birthday, will be dedicated at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6. The 100 trees in the grove come from around the world and represent the diversity of people who settled Walnut Creek. Gather at the Heather Farm Community Center. The All Abilities Playground at Heather Farm Park opened on October 25. The project was a partnership between the City, the county, the East Bay Regional Park District, and the CITIZENS INSTITUTE. After a yearlong Walnut Creek Civic Pride Foundation, which raised more than $370,000 in donations. Council sets priorities for next two years Centennial hiatus, the Walnut Creek Citizens Institute returns. Participants learn City Manager’s update first-hand how their City works through tours, lectures and hands-on activities. Stay in the know as downtown evolves Classes will be Wednesdays, 6:30 to 9 p.m., ur downtown housing in the downtown, while protecting Feb. 25 through April 8, with graduation is going our open space and neighborhoods. on Saturday, April 11. There is a $25 fee, through a While it may seem to be happening and space is limited. Email community @ O tremendous time of all at once, many of these projects were walnut-creek.orgdetails. change. Ten major approved years ago, but were put on hold housing and retail by property owners during the economic projects are either downtown. Now, with the economy under construction, recovering and financial institutions approved, or in the City Manager lending money, developers are moving planning pipeline, Ken Nordhoff forward with their plans. bringing slightly Long-term, these additions will more than 1,500 new apartments or strengthen and enrich our community, condominiums to our community over providing housing for people of all the next 3-5 years. ages, ranging from young professionals This is a reflection of the health and HOLIDAY CLOSURES. Most City to empty nesters, in a downtown desirability of Walnut Creek. People facilities, except for public safety, will be environment close to public transit. want to live here, and developers want closed from 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 23 Short-term, this time of intense to invest here. And, it fits the long- until 8 a.m. Monday, Jan. 5. A detailed construction can be disruptive, particularly term vision spelled out in our General list will be posted on the City’s website, if one doesn’t know what to expect. Plan: concentrating higher density new www.walnut-creek.org. See UPDATE, page 11 www.walnut-creek.org In a Nutshell  Winter 2014-15 org) Art wraps make utility boxes less utilitarian leven dull gray utility boxes were Winter highlights transformed into colorful works of art as (check cable listings Epart of a Community Service Day project for showtimes or go sponsored by Walnut Creek Downtown (WCD). to walnutcreektv.) Volunteers cleaned and prepped the utility boxes the morning of Sept. 27 before the eye-catching Congratulations, vinyl wraps were installed that afternoon. Walnut Creek TV! This first-of-its-kind art exhibit in Walnut Walnut Creek TV is Creek is a temporary project that will be the proud recipient of evaluated to determine its impact on the two 2014 awards from downtown. WCD has been looking for public art the National Asso- opportunities for a few years and presented this project in their annual report to the City Council ciation of Telecom- last January, said Kathy Hemmenway, Interim munications Officers Executive Director, WCD. “We hope to include and Advisors. WCTV these in the City’s monthly public artwork was recognized in the walking tours. This is the first of many exciting This North Main Street utility box is now home to Best Documentary art projects planned to beautify downtown.” category for its profile “Windy Day” by Carol Aust. of the Third Thursday Here’s what’s happening Veterans Group, and in the Magazine Style Holiday Toy Drive Kiss & Tail at the Lindsay Wildlife Museum category for a “Creek Spread the magic of the Just in time for Valentine’s Day! Enjoy “tails” of Currents” episode season by donating toys for wild animal romance, along with beverages and featuring the Walnut underprivileged children. sweet treats at the Lindsay Wildlife Museum on Creek Aquanuts. The Walnut Creek Police Thursday, Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. Must be 21 or older. Visit Watch these shows and Department is accepting wildlife-museum.org or call 925-935-1978. others on demand at donations of new, unwrapped www.youtube.com/ toys through Wednesday, Dec. 17. The toys CERT Crab Feed cityofwalnutcreek. will be distributed through the Marines’ Toys The Community Centennial for Tots program. For more information, call Emergency Response Minutes Sgt. David Rangel, 925-943-5899, ext. 7678 Team Crab Feed will be The Centennial Year or WCPD Professional Staff member Lauren Saturday, Feb. 7 at the is ending, but the Gehring, 925-943-5890. Heather Farm Community Centennial Minutes Center Lakeside Room. CERT volunteers use Hug a Tree Hiking Safety Program live on. Watch these the proceeds to purchase emergency supplies so short video stories Geared for the entire family, we’ll share they may respond quickly and safely to help their highlighting Walnut hiking safety tips to assist in your enjoyment neighborhoods in event of disaster. For details, visit Creek history on and safety while exploring Open Space trails, www.walnut-creek.org/cert. demand at www. including what to know before you go, what youtube.com/ to do to keep safe when hiking, and what to How to Create Fire Defensible Spaces do if you become lost. Sunday, Feb. 1 at 2 Each year, the Open Space Division spends more cityofwalnutcreek. p.m. at the Carriage Barn at Borges Ranch. than $35,000 to create firebreaks around Open Space $2 donation; reservations are necessary. Call sites to protect neighbors from grassland fires. Come Public Meetings Supervising Ranger Nancy Dollard, 925-943- hear about the Division’s actions and share ideas on City Council and all 5899 ext. 2135. what adjacent homeowners can do to help protect Commission meet- their property. Reservations are required. Call 925- ings are televised Comedy Night, Stars to the Rescue for 943-5899 ext. 2135. live and available on Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Found. demand. Always a howling good time, ARF’s Comedy Live! from the Library offers a sneak peek Channel info Night will be Friday, Jan. 9 at the Lesher at “The Book Club” play Walnut Creek TV is Center for the Arts. Then on Jan. 10, get ready Director Michael Butler and members of the Center on Comcast Channel for a star-studded evening at “Stars to the REP cast offer a sneak peek at “The Book Club 28 (incorporated WC Rescue XXIV” at the Lesher Center. ARF’s Play” at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14 in the downtown only), Rossmoor 26, signature talent showcase features outstanding library as part of the “Live! from the Library” series Astound Channel 29, performers, united under ARF’s message produced by the Walnut Creek Library Foundation. and AT&T U-Verse of “People Rescuing Animals ... Animals The series features free public lectures, literary Channel 99; and Rescuing People®.” Tickets available to both events and cultural programs. Learn more at www. walnutcreektvorg. events in early December; visit arf.net. wclibrary.org. page 2 Winter 2014-15  In a Nutshell Authors Gala at the WC Library ix and mingle with noted Bay Area authors on March 14 Mwhen the Walnut Creek Library Foundation hosts its annual fund-raising gala. The 2015 event promises distinctive elegance with a few surprises. The evening will begin with a first-floor cocktail reception and silent SERVING THEIR COMMUNITY Grace Gonsalves and Marlo McCullar rake leaves in front of the Lindsay Wildlife Museum on auction filled with one-of-a-kind items. Community Service Day. More than 1,100 people turned out for the Sept. 27 community work The featured authors will be on hand to day, helping schools, libraries, parks, animal groups and more. Mark your calendar for October autograph their books. This year, discount 10, 2015, the fifth Community Service Day. tickets will be available for those who wish to attend the cocktail reception only. Film society ready to launch second season After the reception, guests and authors will move upstairs and enjoy a catered ountain Shadow, a non-profit film dinner in the library stacks. society that brings foreign and Proceeds from the Authors Gala benefit Mindependent filmmaking to the programs and collections for the Walnut Walnut Creek area, is taking membership Creek and the Ygnacio Valley libraries. applications for its 2015 subscription season. Tickets go on sale in January; Monthly screenings are held in the Oak View check www.wclibrary.org/authors for Room of the downtown library. and an interview with him shortly before details, or call 925-935-5395 to reserve Memberships sold out in just a few months his death. tickets now. This event sells out early. last year, resulting in a second screening The 2015 subscription season offers being added. two screening options: the second Friday Free tax preparation Mountain Shadow’s goal is to bring great or third Saturday of each month. Due to films that are otherwise unavailable in local space limitations, a maximum number of Free tax preparation for the 2015 tax commercial theaters. Typically, there is a 120 memberships will be available for each season is available starting February 2015 feature film, preceded by an award-winning choice; returning subscribers are given first from AARP’s Tax-Aide and United Way’s short. priority. The annual membership fee is Earn It, Keep It, Save It (EKS) programs. The weekend of Nov. 21 showcased $120, and includes 12 shows and an Oscar All tax preparers are trained and certified “Three Still Standing,” which premiered Night Party. by the IRS. Both programs serve taxpayers in October at the Mill Valley Film Festival. More information about the films of any age. EKS can only serve those “Three Still Standing” follows the ups and and Mountain Shadow Film Society is whose incomes do not exceed $50,000; downs of three stand-up comics from the available at http://mountainshadow.org, or Tax-Aide can serve all incomes. golden era of comedy clubs in San Francisco by contacting Mountain Shadow director, Beginning Jan. 5, for information in the eighties to the present. Included in John Bennison, [email protected] or to make an appointment for the Tax- the film are early clips of Robin Williams, or 925-787-6965. Aide sites serving the Walnut Creek area, please call: 925-943-5851 for the Walnut Host families sought for international college students Creek Senior Club site; 925-405-6278 for the Walnut Creek Grace Presbyterian The International Education Center at without children. Students already speak a Church site; 925-979-5013 for the Walnut Diablo Valley College is looking for good level of English. Hosts will receive a Creek St. Paul’s Episcopal Church people to host international students on a monthly stipend of $850 per student, and site. For general information and other temporary basis while they improve their must provide a private bedroom and two site locations, call 925-726-3199. For English skills. meals per day. information on EKS sites call 2-1-1 or All types of people are welcome to Contact Fia Parker at 925-876-0080, or visit www.earnitkeepitsaveit.org. host – single or married adults, with or [email protected] for more information.

In a Nutshell  Winter 2014-15 page 3 Thank you to our sponsors The yearlong Centennial Celebration would not have been possible without the support of the community and these generous sponsors:

More than 100 items filled the time capsule, on display at the October 21 City Council meeting. Among the highlights: birthday cards made at the Birthdy Festival, a swimsuit Sponsor of the Century worn by the Aquanuts on America’s Got Talent; a parking meter; a CERT helmet; a Murwood Mechanics Bank Elementary School mascot; and the October 21, 2014 edition of the Contra Costa Times! The time capsule will be stored in the City Hall vault for the next 50 years.Thanks to everyone who Legacy Sponsor suggested ideas or contributed items. The complete list is at www.walnutcreek100.com. Pacific Gas and Electric Company

The Centennial Year Festival Sponsor is drawing to a close. Broadway Plaza The October 18 Centennial Heritage Sponsor Birthday Festival drew more CSAA Insurance Group, than 5,000 people to this historic a AAA Insurer Shadelands Ranch Museum for live Signature Sponsors music, food trucks, activities and, City of Walnut Creek of course, birthday cake! Hall Equities Group The Lesher Foundation The final event will be the ParkSmart December 6 dedication of the Robert Anthony Strategic Marketing & Centennial Grove at Heather Farm Design Park at 11 a.m. Shadowbrook Winery

Other events throughout the year Celebration Sponsors included the opening “Flappers Republic Services and Flasks” event at the Lesher (Photo by Mike Kirwan/Kirwan Photography) Safeway Volunteers Carolina Katz, Heather Stead and Center for the Arts, the “Centennial Jennifer Ruane, who chaired the Centennial Heritage Day” at Old Borges Birthday Festival. Fiscal Sponsor The Walnut Creek Historical Society Ranch, a special Fourth of July Ice are available at walnutcreek100. Cream Social hosted by former com. Media Sponsors mayor, and 100 and more ways Thank you to the Centennial Contra Costa Times to celebrate, offered by dozens of Diablo Magazine Steering Committee, led by Steve community partners. Walnut Creek Magazine and Mackenize Lesher, for a Photos from these special events yearlong tribute to our home town. page 4 Winter 2014-15  In a Nutshell DOWNTOWN WALNUT CREEK Broadway Plaza HOME FOR ALL DECKED OUT FOR THE HOLIDAYS: Broadway Plaza’s new South Broadway parking garage opens THE HOLIDAYS November 22 and the entire shopping center is getting All Decked Out for the occasion! Join the fun on Black Friday, November 28, and celebrate this opening with exclusive shopper giveaways, amazing retailer offers, live entertainment and one very special celebrity guest – Santa Claus! With ample parking, free valet and more than 30 stores open, plus Macy’s, Nord- strom and Neiman Marcus, say hello to hassle-free holiday shopping! HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE AND TREE LIGHTING: Music and festivity will fill Broadway Plaza on December 4th from 6 – 9 p.m. with a Retailer Open House, live entertainment and activities for children of all ages! And, Santa Claus will be making a very special appearance to help light DOROTHY SAID IT BEST – THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME. As we wind our way Broadway Plaza’s magical through the final weeks of 2014, there is much to appreciate right here in alnutW Creek. Christmas Tree and make it snow! Take a peaceful hike in the open space, lace up those skates at Walnut Creek on Ice, or treat yourself to a holiday tea at the historic Shadelands Ranch Museum or the Gardens at Heather Farm. Civic Park Sparkles Over the next three pages, you’ll find a wide array of events and activities to enjoy this TREE LIGHTING holiday season, both downtown and around town, plus a colorful Guide to Holiday Parking. 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29 As a starter, here are three things guaranteed to make spirits bright: Join emcee Dan Ashley for caroling, hot 600 new parking spaces at Broadway Plaza with the Nov. 22 opening of cocoa and holiday happiness. Meet the new South Broadway parking garage at the Ice Rink, and walk together as a group to the gazebo, where the Mayor Return of the Holiday Tree Lighting at Civic Park from 5-6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29 will be on hand to light the holiday tree. Extended evening hours on the Free Downtown Trolley through December 31 Walnut Creek on Ice Through January 11, 2015 at Civic Park Get your skate on at Walnut Creek on Ice! Learn to skate at the Ice Skating Academy, schedule a special birthday party, or just enjoy open skate times. Visit iceskatewalnutcreek.com or call 925-935-7699 for details.

In a Nutshell  Winter 2014-15 page 5 DOWNTOWN LESHER CENTER

WALNUT CREEK The Lesher Center for the Arts offers holiday performances for every age and interest. Here are some picks; visit Walnut Creek Winter Wednesdays www.lesherartscenter.org or stop by the Wednesdays from 6 to 8 p.m. Box Office for additional details and a Through Nov. 17 complete calendar of events. NOV 19 SUGAR SPUN FAIRIES Cotton Candy Bar NOV 26 DOWNTOWN’S HOLIDAY SOUNDS Acoustic Musicians Northgate Madrigals DEC 3 TREAT STREET Visit with Santa @ Featured Productions: The Candy Counter A CHRISTMAS CAROL Face Painting & Carolers Center REPertory Company DEC 10 December 11 – 21 SANTA’S JOLLY TROLLEY HOLIDAY CONCERT Trolley rides with Santa Walnut Creek Concert Band Northgate Madrigals December 2 DEC 17 THE BIGGEST GIFT OH! WHAT FUN IT IS TO RIDE Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble Horse & Carriage Rides - $5/per person A DIFFERENT EVENT December 18-21 Carolers HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS EVERY WEDNESDAY California Symphony Visit wcwednesdays.com to learn more FROM 6-8pm December 23 Nov. 5 - DEC. 17– h Live Entertainment TAKE THE TROLLEY AND LEAVE Holiday Family Fun Food Trucks TRAFFIC BEHIND Free Sweet Treats Thanks to funding provided by Broadway Plaza, Walnut Creek’s Santa Visits Free Ride Trolley offers extended evening hours from the day after Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve. Horse & Carriage Rides The Trolley (also known as County Connection Route 4) will be avail- And Much More! able until 10 p.m. Nov. 28 through Dec. 13, and also Dec. 26 through h Dec. 31. From Dec. 15 through Dec. 23, trolley hours extend to 11 p.m. (Note: Extended hours are Visit wcwednesdays.com not offered on Sundays; the last trolley leaves Walnut Creek BART at 6:20 p.m. Sundays) The Free Trolley loops between Walnut Creek BART and Broadway Plaza, traveling along for details and locations. Locust and North Main Street. For a detailed route map, visit countyconnection.com/schedule/4.

page 6 Winter 2014-15  In a Nutshell

AROUND FREE PARKING IN ALL CITY GARAGES WALNUT CREEK Wednesdays after 5pm Model Railroad Holiday Shows from Nov. 5 - Jan. 1 Friday, Nov. 28 at 2 p.m. FREE VALET THURS-SAT 5-10PM Saturday, Nov. 29 & First 3 hours free, $5 after 3 hours Sunday, Nov. 30 at 11 a.m. Locust St. in front of Kitchen Table One of Walnut Creek’s secret treasures, the Diablo Valley Lines model railroad will thrill kids BROADWAY PLAZA GARAGE REOPENS NOV. 22 of all ages during the special Thanksgiving 600 additional free spaces! Weekend holiday shows. The railroad is operated by the Walnut Creek Model Railroad FIRST HOUR IS ALWAYS FREE Society. 2751 Buena Vista Avenue. Call 7 days a week in all city garages 50¢–$1/Hr 925-937-1888 or visit www.wcmrs.org. every additional hour Holidays at Shadelands No time limits! THREE-COURSE TEA LUNCHEON, HOLIDAY FAIRE Nov. 29 through Dec. 14 The holidays come to the historic Shadelands Ranch Museum, 2660 Ygnacio Valley Road! A three-course tea luncheon is served at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., while more than 40 vendors will be on hand from 10 a.m to 4 p.m. with handcrafted items for sale. Advance reservations for the tea are required; sittings fill up fast! Call 925-935-7871. Holiday Artists Market SHADELANDS ARTS CENTER 111 WIGET LANE Fri, Dec. 5 - Opening Gala and sale – 5 to 9 p.m. Sat, Dec. 6 and Sunday, Dec. 7 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call 925-943-5846 This year’s sale combines works from the Clay Arts Guild along with other Civic Arts disciplines LOCUST STREET GARAGE for the largest market ever! Buy handmade 1625 Locust St., Adjacent to the Dean Lesher ceramics, jewelry, art glass, paintings, prints, Regional Center for the Arts photography, textiles and more. Get your holiday shopping done while supporting SOUTH LOCUST GARAGE community arts education and local artists. 25 1350 Locust St., Between Mt. Diablo Blvd. percent of all proceeds will benefit Civic Arts and Cypress Street Education and the Clay Arts Guild. Check out BROADWAY GARAGE more event details at 1390 Broadway, One block South of the Public Library www.2014ArtistMarket.eventbrite.com WCPARK.com

In a Nutshell  Winter 2014-15 page 7

Teddy Bear Tea Holiday Hors D’oeuvres THE GARDENS AT HEATHER FARM CIVIC PARK COMMUNITY 1540 Marchbanks Drive CENTER KITCHEN Saturday, Dec. 6 and Sunday, Dec. 7 Wednesday, Dec. 17, 6:30-9:30 p.m. 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. seatings Just in time for those holiday potlucks A festive holiday tea with story time, and buffets! Chef Chat Mingkwan will favors for children and photos to take teach participants how to mix and match ingredients and techniques from a home. variety of cuisines to prepare both sweet Children: $20 Adults: $25 and savory one-bite appetizers, snacks Call 925-947-1678 or register online and hors d’oeuvres. Register in advance. at www.gardenshf.org $57 class fee; $15 supply fee payable at class. Call 925-943-5858 or go to www.WalnutCreekRec.org to register. Class No. 26771. Winter Animal Tales Sponsored by Walnut Creek Open Space Saturday, Dec. 20, 10 to 11:30 a.m. Howe Homestead, 2950 Walnut Blvd New Year’s Eve Party DECEMBER THE CLUBHOUSE AT BOUNDARY ACTIVITES OAK GOLF COURSE Wednesday, Dec. 31, 6 p.m to 12:30 a.m. Reservations, call 925-934-4775 ext. 20 Lindsay Wildlife Museum WINTER BREAK HOURS December 22 - January 4, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Garden Wreaths! workshop Civic Arts Education Performances Dec. 24 & Dec. 31 - 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. RUTH BANCROFT GARDEN JACK & THE BEANSTALK Closed December 25 (Christmas Day) and 1552 Bancroft Road Presented by the Youth Theatre Company January 1 (New Year’s Day). Saturday, Dec. 6, 1-3 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11 and Friday, Call 925-935-1978 Learn how to incorporate interesting Dec. 12, 7 p.m. materials found in the yard into a hol- Shadelands Arts Center iday wreath. Easy design techniques 111 Wiget Lane, $10 Family Swimming at the will ensure that every participant will 925.943.5846 Clarke Swim Center go home with a wreath they are proud WINTER BALLET GALA The Clarke Swim Center at Heather of, no matter what prior experience he Del Valle Theatre Farm Park is open from noon to 4 p.m. or she may have. Basic wreath materi- Friday, Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays for both als are provided with registration. Saturday, Dec. 13, 2 p.m., $16.75 recreational and lap swimming. $20 General Admission, $15 Garden 925.943.SHOW Call 925-943-5856. Members. WINTER JAZZ BAND CONCERT Space is limited, pre-registration is Shadelands Arts Center recommended. Sunday, Dec. 14, 2 p.m. Be a Blacksmith www.ruthbancroftgarden.org or call 925.943.5846 Saturday, Dec. 6, 6 p.m. 925-944-9352 Borges Ranch YOUTH PERFORMERS Get dirty, make noise, smash things ORCHESTRA WINTER CONCERT and play with fire! Watch Ranger Bruce Breakfast with Santa Tuesday, Dec. 16, 7 p.m. demonstrate the art of blacksmithing, Shadelands Arts Center THE CLUBHOUSE AT BOUNDARY and try it yourself by making a hook. OAK GOLF COURSE 111 Wiget Lane, $10 $5 materials fee; must be at least 12 Sunday, Dec. 14 10 a.m. to noon 925.943.5846 to work on the forge. Reservations are Reservations, call 925-934-4775 ext. 20 required. 925-943-5899 ext. 2665.

page 8 Winter 2014-15  In a Nutshell PACE financing: coming November

Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) is an innovative way for property owners to finance energy efficiency, water conservation, renewable energy, and electric vehicle infrastructure upgrades. In September, the City Council Meet your Walnut Creek Police Department weekend day shift Patrol Officers! With the holiday approved several PACE programs to shopping season here, they would like to remind everyone not to let thieves ruin the day. allow Walnut Creek’s residential and commercial property owners to access Holiday shopping crime prevention tips PACE financing. hopping during a thousand different things. Be aware of The CaliforniaFIRST program the holiday season the people around you, especially strang- launced Nov. 18 and offers up to $1,000 can present unique ers who appear to be approaching for no in rebates for projects approved before S reason. danger. People become the end of of 2014. Learn more at www. busy and sometimes zz Avoid carrying a lot of cash; pay for californiaFIRST.org. careless, which can lead purchases with a check or credit card. The California HERO program and to being a victim of theft zz Keep cash and credit cards in your Figtree Financing will launch in early and other crimes. Here are a few tips to front pocket. 2015. Homeowners, multi-family, and help keep you safely in the holiday spirit! commercial property owners can choose zz Avoid overloading yourself with bags the program that best fits their needs. zz Shop during daylight hours if possible. and boxes. To learn more about PACE, visit the If you must shop during hours of darkness, Financing section of our Going Green zz Never leave shopping bags in your park close to the building and near a light. car while you continue to shop. While it Together website at www.walnut-creek. Take advantage of shuttles or escorts if the org/goinggreen. might be inconvenient to drive home and shopping center provides them. then come back, think about what it would Homeowner workshop zz Don’t carry a purse. Carrying items be like to return to your car and have a like a checkbook, ID and credit cards on window smashed and everything you just on energy efficiency your person will make it more difficult for bought gone. On Oct. 2, the City partnered with someone to take them. If you must carry zz Consider shopping in pairs or groups. Contra Costa County to hold a workshop a purse, carry a cross-body style bag and The more the merrier, as the saying goes! for homeowners on the Energy Upgrade keep the bag part in front. California Home Upgrade program. zz Stay alert to your surroundings even Enjoy the season! Here’s to a safe and More than 85 homeowners learned when you are rushed and thinking about happy New Year. how to participate in the program, which offers rebates of $1,000-$6,500 to homeowners for installing multiple energy John Muir Health to open pediatric intensive care unit efficiency upgrades. ohn Muir Health will open a new respiratory problems. Homeowners were also able to connect pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) in The new inpatient unit includes with contractors participating in Home J its Walnut Creek medical center through eight private rooms adjacent to the Upgrade, learn about environmental issues a partnership with Stanford Children’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and from two local non-profits, and receive Health in January 2015. The inpatient pediatric units. Each room is structured to information on the SmartSolar program, hospital unit will be the first of its kind to accommodate parents and family staying which offers free, independent advice and serve Contra Costa County. overnight. With funding from the John guidance to homeowners interested in The PICU is designed to allow health Muir Health Foundation, the new PICU going solar. If you missed the workshop care providers to care for sick and injured rooms will be outfitted with equipment and would like to learn more, contact a children ages 0 to 18. These experts will and furniture appropriately sized for free, neutral Home Upgrade Advisor to be able to treat a wide range of conditions, younger patients, as well as adult-sized walk you through the program and answer such as congenital heart and neurological amenities for parents and families such as your questions at 866-878-6008 or visit disorders, scoliosis, diabetes and sleep chairs, a family lounge, and kitchen. www.bayareaenergyupgrade.org.

In a Nutshell  Winter 2014-15 page 9 How diagonal crosswalks work Making it easier - and safer - for people, bicyclists and drivers to get around is a critical piece of planning for an active downtown. That’s the goal behind Walnut Creek’s first “Scramble Intersections” being implemented in November at Olympic Boulevard and South Main Street, and Olympic Boulevard and Locust Street intersections.

1 Green lights for north/south traffic, 2 East/west traffic gets green lights. 3 All traffic stopped. Pedestrians pedestrians wait. Right turns are safer Pedestrians continue waiting, traffic flows and bicyclists are free to cross the with no pedestrians using crosswalk. smoothly through the intersection. intersection in any direction safely.

Source: City of Walnut Creek www.chucktodd.net Boundary Oak Business park sees $200 million in investment Clubhouse owntown isn’t the only part of Walnut improvements to Creek that is going start with new year Dthrough a Renaissance. The Shadelands Business Park mprovements to the Boundary Oak is attracting attention and Golf Course Clubhouse are scheduled investors to the tune of an to being on Jan. 5. The first of two estimated $200 million in I 2014. projects includes a much needed remodel of the upstairs restrooms, ADA compliant The Business Park is upgrades, and a new front entry door. significant because of its size These improvements are scheduled — 240 acres and 2.4 million to be completed by April 2015 and square feet of office space 2014 was a milestone year for the Shadelands Business Park. patrons to the Clubhouse will notice the — and potential as magnet improvements right away. for emerging and innovative businesses primary care facility. This development is The second project for 2015 will begin and industries, and the high-paying jobs expected to result in 100 to 150 new jobs; that come with them, said Economic in May and will include upgrades to the zz UC Davis is going to occupy 4,500 Development Manager Ron Gerber. building’s infrastructure and painting of square feet for a treatment center at 100 Site work is under way on the Orchards the clubhouse. This phase is expected to North Wiget; conclude in July. project at the corner of Ygnacio and Oak Additional improvements to the Grove roads. In addition to a new Safeway zz Public Employees Local 1 acquired clubhouse are scheduled for 2016 and store, the Orchards will include retail and 420 N Wiget and is undertaking a major 2017. The entire remodel will encompass restaurants, a 4-acre park, walking trails renovation; parts of three years and is projected to and a fitness center. zz The recently acquired 150-190 North cost $3.5 million. The projects are funded Other signs of Shadelands’ economic Wiget buildings are under renovation; by user fees generated through the Golf resurgence include: zz The vacant Kindercare building has Course Enterprise Fund. zz Koll Company/Rialto Capital pur- been purchases and is being renovated; The golf course will remain open chased the 428,000- square-foot Walnut z for business during all phases of the Creek Executive Park for $48 Million z Bay Area Surgical Associates is Clubhouse project. and will be spending additional funds to developing two surgery centers (general For more information or to book your upgrade the campus; ambulatory and vascular); next event at the Clubhouse, contact z zz Muir Orthopaedic acquired the vacant z And, for something really different … Boundary Oak at 925-934-4775 or Cali Craft Brewing Company is harvesting www.playboundaryoak.com. building at 2625 Shadelands Drive to accommodate a new orthopaedic center and their crop of heirloom hops grown on site. page 10 Winter 2014-15  In a Nutshell Update From Page 1

To make sure the community is kept in the loop, we are setting up a “one stop” webpage that will include an interactive map with details about each project: when it’s scheduled to begin, what roads might be impacted during construction, what public amenities the developer is contributing, etc. Find it after the first of the year at www.walnut-creek.org. For those of you who prefer getting information in person, I am always willing to come out and talk to neighborhood groups and organizations about what is happening with these changes in Walnut Creek, or about anything else that is of interest to you. My office number is 925- 943-5812. — Ken Nordhoff

What’s on your mind? What questions do you have about downtown development, Construction is under way at The Arroyo, a 100-unit apartment complex at 1250 Arroyo Way. or any other topic relating to Walnut Creek? Email Downtown Development [email protected]. Project Update 1 - Walnut Creek BART/200 Ygnacio Get the flood facts Valley Road -- Approved in 2012, the first phase of construction will not begin loods are one of the most common until 2016. The Walnut Creek BART natural disasters. Walnut Creek and Transit Village will create 600 apartment Fits tributaries drain over 146 square units, a new parking structure, and 30,000 miles within central Contra Costa County. square feet of commercial space. The primary flood hazard areas are in the 2 - 207-235 Ygnacio Valley Road downtown area, along Walnut Boulevard, near Tice Creek in south Walnut Creek, -- The Landing at Walnut Creek will offer and portions of northwest Walnut Creek. 178 apartment units across the street from the Walnut Creek BART station. Localized flooding, however, can occur in 7 - Broadway Plaza is in the midst of an any location and over 30 percent of flood 3 - 1500 California Blvd. -- 141 extensive remodel and expansion. A new losses nationally occur outside of mapped new apartment units, ground floor retail 600-space garage opens Nov. 22. flood areas. and restaurant space, and a new public Flood insurance is available for courtyard are under construction next to 8 - 1500 Newell --- Approved in 2009, purchase to all residents in Walnut Creek the Lesher Center/North Locust garage. the former site of the 8-story “Peace Building” will soon house a four-story and unincorporated portions of the County 4 - 1960 North Main Street – The due to Walnut Creek’s participation in building featuring retail space, 49 North Main Street Apartments project will apartment units, and a creek promenade. the National Flood Insurance Program add another 126 apartment units with live/ (NFIP). It takes 30 days after purchase work options. 9 - 1500 Mt. Diablo -- This 12,000 for a policy to take effect, so it’s important square foot commercial building at the to buy insurance before the floodwaters 5 - 141 N Civic Drive - Tenants are corner of Mt. Diablo and North Main will start to rise. Visit www.floodsmart.gov/ moving into the 300-unit BRIO Apartment include retail space and rooftop dining. floodsmart/pages/about/nfip_overview. complex on Civic Drive, which celebrated jsp to learn more about flood insurance its grand opening on Nov. 18. 10 - 1271 S California Blvd -- Centre coverage. Contact the City’s Engineering 6 - 1250 Arroyo Way --- Approved in Place South would include 22 residential Division at 925-943-5839 for additional late 2013, The Arroyo at 1250 Arroyo Way condos, underground parking, retail and information or to determine if your is already under construction and will be a restaurant space. The project is currently property is in a 100-year floodplain. 100-unit apartment building. under review.

In a Nutshell  Winter 2014-15 page 11 From blogging to botany - PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE Bedford Gallery highlights PAID 1666 North Main Street WALNUT CREEK CA The Jealous Curator: Walnut Creek, CA 94596 PERMIT # 282 From Blog, to Book, to Gallery ECRWSS Dec. 7 – Feb. 1 The Jealous Curator, an internationally POSTAL CUSTOMER renowned contemporary art blogger and author, Linda Fleming, Spires has created The Object and the Void: an exhibition West Coast Metal Sculpture designed to Feb. 17 – April 12 tackle creative blocks that The Object & the Void features four can inhibit us west coast sculptors who use metal all. The show Jealous Curator fave: to explore weight and balance. “ID” by Hollie Chastain 925-943-5800 features art in Through their sculptures, the artists www.walnut-creek.org a variety of art-making stations. Come express narrative, poetic, and make some art and make your mark! abstract concepts. CITY COUNCIL The public is invited to an opening The public is invited to an opening reception on Thursday, Mayor Kristina Lawson * reception on Sunday, Dec. 7, from 3 to Mayor Pro Tem Bob Simmons Feb. 19, from 6 to 8 p.m. 5 p.m. Admission is $5; wine and hors Loella Haskew d’oeuvres are hosted by the Bedford Admission is $5; wine and Justin Wedel Gallery Guild and supported by JP hors d’oeuvres are hosted by Cindy Silva Morgan Chase. The Jealous Curator the Bedford Gallery Guild and * Term ends December 2, 2014 supported by JP Morgan Chase. will be signing her book Creative For appointment, call 925-256-3504 Block, on sale in the gallery as well. Don’t miss An Evening with ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF the Jealous Curator: Blogging Ken Nordhoff, City Manager 101, Tuesday, Dec. 9, from 6 to Steve Mattas, City Attorney 8 p.m. Hear the history of The Suzie Martinez, City Clerk Jealous Curator and how she got her Ronald Cassano, City Treasurer start. Glean tricks of the trade for creating a successful blog—how to Administrative Services design it, “feed it”, market it, and Jeff Mohlenkamp, Director Open Call for Artwork: build your online following. The Arts, Recreation & Community Services Botanica: All Things Plant Life evening includes snacks, wine and Kevin Safine, Director an exhibition walk-through with The Artists are invited to enter Community & Economic Development Jealous Curator. artworks for a national juried Sandra Meyer, Director RSVP by calling 925-295-1423. exhibition at the Bedford Gallery. Human Resources Cost is $10. The deadline for submitting Fran Robustelli, Director artwork is May 8; the exhibition is Rent the Bedford! July 12 through Sept. 6. Police Department Tom Chaplin, Chief of Police Host an event in the spacious From 16th century Flemish gallery and offer your guests the painters to the Post Impressionists, Public Works opportunity to view engaging the color and variety found in plant Heather Ballenger, Director artwork while mixing and mingling. life have long served as artistic The Bedford is perfect for both the inspiration. For our annual juried ABOUT THIS NEWSLETTER artistically savvy and culturally exhibition, we ask artists to expore The Nutshell Newsletter is published curious. Located in the Lesher Center how plant life can be represented quarterly. For questions and comments, for the Arts, the gallery’s 3,500 square by a diverse range of media. contact editor Gayle Vassar, feet make it the largest community- The Bedford only accepts online 925-943-5895 or [email protected] based visual arts facility in the region. submissions via SlideRoom. To FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA! find out more about SlideRoom and For more information, please visit facebook.com/cityofwalnutcreek how to enter artwork, visit www. www.bedfordgallery.org/rentals or twitter.com/walnutcreekgov email [email protected] bedfordgallery.org/botanica.

Winter 2014-15  In a Nutshell