Residents have been peeking in the windows at 30 N. Main St., the home of The Colfax Pharmacy for years. Everyone seems to be wondering when the new Cafe & Music will open.

While July 3 was a good goal, Aug. 1 is now the reality.

People are quick to comment “Oh, it’s the city. They are so slow” or “It’s the permit department. They take forever.”

I now find myself defending the city and as I announced during public comment at the June 23 council meeting, the permit and building department and the city planner have been timely, speedy and efficient and very helpful. They have expedited all my paper work.

The sewer line in the alley collapsed, which delayed the project, so don’t blame the city.

The Pharmacy Cafe and Music will hold a grand opening from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 1.

As the new owner, I plan to keep the building as historical as possible by keeping the name, outside paint colors and the interior as intact as possible.

As one waits for the trains to go by on top of Grass Valley Road, the word pharmacy and the blue/white colors are part of the charm that should be maintained in Colfax.

The Pharmacy Cafe & Music will have a limited food menu, but it will be rich with atmosphere, ambiance and purpose.

It will serve in the community as host of “Coffee for a Good Cause.” On the list to benefit so far there are the Colfax Pool and the Farmers Market — with more to add.

There is a new, cultural change happening in downtown Colfax. Main Street Pizza, the Secret City Gallery, Zumba classes and now a new café.

There is no better place to be.

Elan Vitkoff, Colfax