So This Happened…Week of March 13 through 19, 2023

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA (Mar. 19, 2023) — It’s been a controversial month for both the Concord and Clayton City Councils, with non-profits at the center of both debates.

In Clayton, many residents objected to the council’s vote to end an event agreement with the Clayton Business & Community Association (CBCA) that could affect popular community events like the Art & Wine Festival and Oktoberfest. Mayor Jeff Wan offers an explanation in his column, while residents expressed their views in Letters to the Editor.

Meanwhile, the Concord decision to accept a committee’s recommendation for $7 million in federal money left many non-profits out in the cold. Especially vocal were supporters of Rainbow Community Center. Look for commentaries from Kelly Ferguson of Rainbow and Councilmember Edi Birsan.

From drought to deluge: Contra Costa Water District board president Ernesto Avila reports on the effect of all the recent rains, as the U.S. Drought Monitor declares Contra Costa County drought free. Meanwhile, recent winds brought turbulent times to Buchanan Airport. And, columnist Scott Denslow provides tips for keeping your home safe during this extra-tough rainy season.

New chief in Pleasant Hill: Scott Vermillion is the new chief of police, after working in the department since 2000. He replaces Bryan Hill, who retired last fall. Over in Concord, the Police Association is hosting its annual college scholarship program. Deadline for applications is May 26.

Celebrating trail opening: Save Mount Diablo will host a ceremony March 29 for the new Knobcone Point to Riggs Canyon trail connection. The 1.25-mile trail will expand the amount of open space available to explore on Mount Diablo’s southern hills.

More stories

Here are some other stories the Pioneer covered recently:

City of Concord: Mayor Laura Hoffmeister explains how the city is working on affordable housing from multiple angles. Also, Concord secures nearly $8 million in transportation grants.

In sports: Spring teams battle weather conditions to get rain-soaked seasons underway. Plus, a Pioneer Athlete Spotlight on Gabe Lauricella of Clayton Valley Charter and Sports Shorts.

For your health: New food column helps you change what’s on your plate. And, start your garden wish list with fruit trees and berries.

Now that’s entertainment: More local singers heading to Todos Santos Plaza. Or, head over to Endeavor Hall to get caught up in “Mousetrap.”

Arraignment set in Ladwig cold case from 1994.

Concord crash ends with car in kitchen.

Museum exhibit time travels back to Clayton’s “golden days.”

County Connection Advisory Committee seeks new member.

Grits and Cholula looking for their forever homes.

Obituaries: Richard Edward Purdue and Virginia Evelyn Mott Taylor Loveless Lapworth.

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

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