So This Happened...Week of Feb. 15-20

So This Happened…Week of Feb. 15-21

So This Happened...Week of Feb. 15-20CONTRA COSTA COUNTY—As state and federal officials weigh in on school reopenings, the Mount Diablo Unified School District (MDUSD) board approved a hybrid plan in which students could opt to continue distance learning.

Although school staff are now eligible for COVID-19 vaccines in Contra Costa County, the MDUSD board said widespread vaccinations are not expected during this school year. Meanwhile, local schools still cannot offer any sports because coronavirus counts remain too high.

Longtime advocate for Clayton. On the eve of his 100th birthday, Bob Hoyer talks with the Pioneer about the town’s evolution. Overall, Clayton’s first mayor is pleased with what he sees. Read the full story.

From index cards to Zoom. When Doug Van Wyck began his insurance business in 1980, he used index cards for client data. As Tim McGallian takes over the Clayton State Farm office, he is relying on video calls for much of his interactions. Read the full story.

Making room for Hampton. In approving plans for a new Hampton by Hilton downtown, the Concord City Council called for traffic mitigation measures and a shuttle to BART. “I believe COVID will not be with us forever. And in the long term, this project is going to help our economic sustainability into the future,” said Councilman Dominic Aliano. Read the full story.

Black History Month. Pioneer columnist Kiku Johnson delves into the everyday bravery of Blackness in America, while Clayton City Councilwoman Holly Tillman looks at the often-overlooked successes of Black Americans. Read the full story.

More stories

Here are some other local stories the Pioneer covered in the last week:

Kara Kohler seeks 2nd Olympic team berth this week at US Rowing trials.

Concord residents feel the big impact of mini art.

49er great, Hall of Famer Charlie Krueger dies at 84.

Concord PD launches pilot programs to serve homeless, mentally ill.

Contra Costa County board limits food delivery service fees.

Concord’s future looking a little more optimistic.

Diablo Valley Wolves joining Women’s Premier Soccer League for 2021 season.

Take an international walk through small park in mid-town Concord.

Program brings girls outside for lessons in empowerment.

Addressing staggering fraud at EDD.

Save Mount Diablo explores aftermath of wildfires.

Tend your garden now for spring planting.

Beware of exterior mold during rainy season.

Timing is everything on sunrise hike.

Still time to catch Starlight Players’ Valentine adventure.

BART prepared to work with city on construction plans around Concord stations.

Each week, the Concord Clayton Pioneer posts a summary of our news stories called “So This Happened…” If you would like to check out past weekly roundups, click here.

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