DOWNEY – If you hadn’t heard yet, The Downey Patriot recently moved. We are now located at 10927 Downey Ave, Suite C, on the corner of 3rd Street, right across from the US Bank and the Masonic Lodge.

Yup, we’re a part of Downtown Downey now.

Before the move, there was some chatter amongst the Patriot staff about how moving into Downtown would be good for us; how it might make us more visible, put us closer in tune with the city and its happenings.

I have to admit, I was skeptical.

I’m probably going to get in trouble for saying this, but oh well, here it goes: I’ve always thought Downtown Downey was kind of overrated.

Now before our new neighbors start banging on the door with pitchforks, let me explain.

I grew up in the 1990’s and 2000’s, nowhere near old enough to see the Avenue Theatre in its heyday, for example, but around long enough to see downtown’s improvements over the last 10 plus years and appreciate where it’s at today.

I have my opinions, some positive, some critical. Overall, I’ve appreciated that we have a downtown district, even if I find it to be a bit clunky when compared to others.

And truthfully, much to my surprise, I’ve rather enjoyed the change of scenery since we moved here. I dare say, it’s even changed my outlook a bit.

My day-to-day work day has seen changes I never really thought about or anticipated.

For example, coffee runs to Starbucks, often 15-20 minutes or more due to waiting in line, have made way for quick jaunts to Third Street Coffee for a ham, egg, and cheese croissant and a cup of Hawaiian Hazelnut.

Instead of going drive-thru for lunch, I’ve walked to the Downey Gateway for sushi, or to Hall of Fame Market for a sandwich, water, and a cookie.

I even thought about stopping by Portos once or twice.

I used to pay the art on Downey Avenue very little mind (don’t even get me started on the Banana). The other day while taking a break, I walked down to the statue of a boy doing a handstand to take some pictures.

Not to mention, City Hall is visible from out the front door. Assemblywoman Blanca Pacheco’s district office is just down the street as well.

I’ve always said that I love my town; that will always be the case.

But working in Downtown Downey has given me a fresh perspective, a deeper appreciation, and a renewed pride.

There was some chatter amongst the Patriot staff about how moving into Downtown would be good for us. I was skeptical,

But now I guess I see the perks.