So This Happened… Week of Sept. 13 to 19, 2021

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA (Sept. 19, 2021) — In a joint effort, the Noor Islamic Cultural Center in Concord is working with Congressman Mark DeSaulnier to help the Afghan refugees arriving in Contra Costa County.

“They left the country like you saw – clinging to a plane,” said imam Sedique Popal. “We share the same language, religion, same culture, so we can comfort them.”

And DeSaulnier noted: “We have a moral obligation to support the refugees.” Read the full story.

A century of memories: Clayton’s Diamond Terrace Retirement Community hosted a celebration for three residents turning 100 this year. All three women recall decades of hard work but also the rewards of family life.

Historic streak comes to an end: When De La Salle lost in the final seconds to Saint Francis of Mountain View, it marked the Concord football team’s first defeat to a California team north of Fresno since 1991.

“I give them all the credit in the world. They showed up prepared and fired up and physical. They were the better team tonight,” said De La Salle coach Justin Alumbaugh.

In other football news, Clayton Valley Charter coach Tim Murphy says this will be his last year with the Ugly Eagles.

The local restaurant scene: Fans are clamoring for the spicy kitchen sandwiches that two Mt. Diablo High School grads are serving up at Papi Clary’s Kitchen in Concord. The business started in Claryzza Abille’s backyard, and they also sold out of the trunks of cars and at local events. “Wherever we were, we had a line of people following us,” Abille said.

Meanwhile, Ygnacio Valley High alum Samson Cheung is finding success selling Hawaiian poke with a California flair at Concord’s Fresh Box. It’s one of several Central County restaurants where locals can enjoy the raw fish bowls.

COVID update: It’s important to note that starting Sept. 22, diners in the county will need to show proof of vaccination – or a negative COVID-19 test – before entering indoor areas. The county health order also applies to bars and other entertainment venues as well as places like gyms and yoga studios.

“This order is necessary now to save lives, protect our overburdened health-care system and slow the pandemic enough to keep our schools open,” said Dr. Chris Farnitano, the county’s health officer.

More stories

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

Concord funeral business pioneer John Ouimet dies at 92.

State funding moves Brentwood’s historic John Marsh House a step closer to restoration.

Bocce traveled the world before settling in Concord.

When you work for Concord PD, every day is a new opportunity.

Two rough summer fire seasons – with different causes.

We can all take simple steps to help conserve water.

Ghostlight, Pittsburg theaters preparing October runs.

SB9 deals a blow to local land use control.

Tiny homes could be part of a rapid response to homelessness.

Concord’s Yealimi Noh wins two matches as Solheim Cup rookie but Europeans edge USA.

Pioneer Athlete Spotlights on Ryan Morimoto and D’Antonio Jerome.

Real teamwork is when everyone feels they belong on the team.

The “Estates by Wendy Team” is ready to serve local real estate market.

New versions of “Candyman,” “Suicide Squad” worth a peek.

It’s time to take computing to the Max.

Contra Costa Arts and Culture Commission seeks youth advisor applicants.

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.