🌱County Health Statement On CA Mass Shootings + Orinda DUI Driver

Hello, friends! It's Saturday in Concord and I'm back in your inbox with everything that's fit to print about what's happening in the community. Today you'll find news about:

• $545 million may soon be available for Bay Area transportation projects.
• Small businesses in Antioch may be eligible for a COVID-19 relief grant.
• Help determine the Claycord mascot!

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But first, today's weather:

Partly sunny. High: 61 Low: 42.

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Here are the top stories in Concord today:

1. $545 million that's been sitting in escrow may soon be released to be used on Bay Area transportation projects that have been on hold. The money was collected for Bay Area bridge tolls, but it was put in escrow, pending a decision by the Supreme Court of California as to whether it was a tax. "A third toll increase is scheduled for 2025 and it is anticipated that the tolls will ultimately provide $4.45 billion in capital funding for major transportation projects to relieve traffic congestion in the Bay Area" (Claycord.com)
2. A driver who crashed her car on El Toyonal in Orinda around 1:00 a.m. on Friday was arrested for suspicion of DUI. The car came to rest in "a precarious position off the roadway" and the woman had to be rescued before she was ultimately arrested. (News 24/680)
3. Small businesses in the City of Antioch that were negatively impacted by COVID-19 are eligible for a grant made possible by FORWARD, "the leading integrated program administration solution for local governments" in partnership with the city. The total grant is $1 million, to be allocated in increments of $5,000 - $25,000. Businesses must be within the city limits of Antioch to be eligible. (Contra Costa News)
4. Contra Costa Health Services released a statement regarding the series of mass shootings in California. "Without safety, no community is truly healthy," the statement says. The statement goes on to describe the efforts being put forth in Contra Costa County to curb violence and grow community partnerships to promote both mental and physical health. (Contra Costa News)

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Today in Concord:

• Dr. Gary E. Moulton is coming to the Blackhawk Museum in Danville. "Dr. Moulton, an accomplished historical editor, shares his knowledge of Lewis and Clark's record on the American West and Native Americans. " (10:30 AM)
• The First Lutheran Church in Concord is throwing a Crab Feed. "Event is for Adults 21+ only, childcare is provided." (6:00 PM)
• The Spazmatics are going to be at Dan's Irish Sports Bar in Walnut Creek! (9:30 PM)

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From my notebook:

• A runoff will determine the Claycord mascot! Do you think it should be the bobcat, the hawk or the tarantula? Get your vote in! (Claycord.com)
• Head over to the Concord Life Science Center for an open house on Wednesday, February 22. The event will include a panel discussion and a mixer with light refreshments. (City of Concord, California via Facebook)
• STAND! For Families Free of Violence is looking for volunteers! "Training classes start in March- apply today! https://buff.ly/3jhGE8u" (STAND! For Families Free of Violence via Facebook)

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More from our sponsors — thanks for supporting local news!

Events:

• Blackhawk Museum - Dr. Gary Moulton - The Lewis and Clark Expedition (January 28)
• Open House - 327 Gladys Drive, Pleasant Hill (January 28)
• The history of the Joaquin Moraga Adobe - lunch and program (February 11)
• Add your event

Gigs & services:

• Mold Growth From The Heavy Rains? (Details)
• Add your gig or service

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You're officially in the loop for today! See you tomorrow for another update.

— Jeri Karges

About me: Jeri Karges has been living in and loving the Sacramento region for over 30 years. Her passion is finding new and unique ways to enjoy the city and surrounding areas. On weekends, you can find her pestering her friends to sample the restaurant that doesn't have silverware, or try their hand at throwing an axe. Jeri also enjoys writing about retirement planning at https://rockinretirement.subst...

Have a news tip or suggestion for an upcoming Concord Daily? Contact me at Concord-Ca@Patch.com