So This Happened…Week of April 14-20, 2025

Clockwise from left: Protest rally in Concord April 19. Contra Costa Food Bank desperately needs donations. A shooting reported outside of Clayton.

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA (Apr. 20, 2025) — Residents rallied in Concord on April 19 as part of a national demonstration marking the 250th anniversary of the battles that launched the American Revolution. But those gathered also had another purpose: to protest the policies of President Donald Trump and Elon Musk.

“Today we join the millions of Americans who have hit the streets this month to call for a second, peaceful, non-violent revolution to resist the tyranny of King Donald,” said Frank Sterling, a producer and host at KPFA radio in Berkeley.

Concord Mayor Carlyn Obringer pointed to the $20.6 million in frozen federal grants targeted for tree planting, LED streetlights, and road and bridge repairs. “Does that sound partisan or DEI to you?” she asked the crowd. (Read the complete story and see our photos)

Meanwhile, in light of slashed funding, the Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano is looking locally to meet the rising demand for food assistance. “Our goal is to ensure that no one in our community goes hungry, and hearing about potential cuts and freezes in both state and federal funding is worrying,” said executive director Caitlin Sly.

More news

Here are some other stories the Pioneer covered recently:

In Clayton: Remote cabin encounter ends with justified shooting, budgeting for the city’s future and community, immerse yourself in paradise on garden tour and residents comes together to spruce up Clayton.

In Concord: City survey highlights progress, lingering concerns.

In sports: Abbi Cooper nabs place on USA U20 world championship team, Clayton Valley Charter to host statewide eSports invitational, Pioneer Athlete Spotlight on Kai Parker of Clayton Valley, plus Pioneer Sports Shorts.

In local entertainment:Chicago” is coming to Old Town Pittsburg while “Earnest’ heads to Martinez, little things you can do to help local music-makers and fans flock to meet “God with Us” comic creator.

In finance: Beware of interest rates that seem too good to be true.

From the Historical Society: Picnic on the Green celebrates 50 years of Concord Pavilion.

Letter to the Editor: Offering a different version of Concord protestors.

Obituary: Thomas Hamilton Bedecarré.

Read past installments of “So This Happened…”: Click here.

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