Hercules: Let Your Voice Be Heard

What popular food product has historical roots in Pinole?

A) Sourdough bread
B) Corn-based Pinole (a ground maize food)
C) Chocolate
D) Olive oil

(Answer is at the bottom of the newsletter)

Like many small and mid-sized cities, Hercules faces challenges that are often beyond local control. Federal and state governments tend to favor larger cities like San José and San Francisco when it comes to funding and resources, and now the State has its own budget deficit. These realities make it especially important for Hercules to have strategies that ensure we can remain self-reliant, with locally controlled funding for our critical City services—funding that stays in Hercules and cannot be taken by the state. More information here:

https://www.herculesca.gov/government/city-clerk/join-the-conversation

 Your input matters. Please provide YOUR feedback on these priorities, or your own, by completing our community feedback form today to help guide decisions about City services and long-term financial planning.

Sincerely,

Chris Kelley

Mayor

Date: May 16, 2026

Check In: 8:30AM - 9:30AM

Walk Begins: 10:00AM

Location: Crockett Community Center, 850 Pomona Street

Honoring the Men and Women who Served Our Nation

​The Phillips 66 Rodeo Renewable Energy Complex invites you to join us in honoring and celebrating the service of our military veterans at the 17th Annual Walk of Honor, taking place on May 16, 2026. This event will provide a platform for us to come together and recognize the incredible sacrifices made by the men and women who have served our nation.

 A Tradition of Success

Last year’s Walk of Honor raised $40,000.  These funds were evenly divided between the Vietnam Veterans of Diablo Valley and the Crockett Community Services District, both of which continue to support veterans and local community services.

TO REGISTER AND MORE INFORMATION CLICK HERE.

Date: April 28th - 5:00PM

Location: 812 San Pablo Ave., Pinole

Attention all families with kids 8yrs - 16yrs. Come to our open house Athletic Training class.

For kids who play sports, athletic training isn’t just about getting better—it’s about building a strong foundation. Between the ages of 8 and 16, young athletes are still growing, which makes proper training essential for developing coordination, balance, strength, and overall athletic ability. Learning the right techniques early helps improve performance and gives kids more confidence on the field or court.

Just as important, athletic training helps prevent injuries. Many young athletes deal with strains or overuse injuries simply because they haven’t been taught how to move correctly or take care of their bodies. A structured training program teaches proper form, conditioning, and recovery—setting them up not just for success in sports, but for long-term health and discipline both on and off the field.

🗓️ May 2nd - Community Clean up Day - 8:00AM - 11:00AM - Corporation Yard 1000 Sycamore Ave., Hercules, CA 94547

🗓️ May 2nd - 3rd - The Girls Empowerment Camp - FREE - 2-day camp for teens ages 14-18. GEC introduces them to the fire service and provides campers with a realistic, hands-on overview of firefighting and exposure to all aspects of public safety career opportunities in the fire service. To register for the camp please click here.

🗓️ May 15th - Crockett Scouts Fish Fry Fundraiser - $30 Adults l $12 Children under 12 - 4:00PM - 8:00PM - Crockett Scout Hall - 991 Loring Ave., Crockett - Tickets are available at the door or you can purchase them in advance via Zelle: [email protected]. Include the scout’s name in the notes section of Zelle. Bring cash for raffle prizes and drinks. Dinner will include all you can eat: Battered Fish, French Fries, Corn, and Coleslaw.

🗓️ May 20th - Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run - 8:00AM - Join Pinole Police Department as they participate in the run to raise mone for the Special Olympics. Click here to donate!

The ultimate destination for Indian fusion pizza lovers!

They have vegetarian, halal, vegan, and gluten free options.

Located: 3700 San Pablo Ave, Hercules

Visit their website here.

Phone: #510-964-9990

Missing Since: April 18th, 2026 - Concord, CA - Age 14 - Female

EBONY ALERT - Contra Costa County

Last seen: Diamond Bar Blvd. and Galaxy Ave., Concord

IF SEEN, CALL 9-1-1

Located: Martinez

Description: My name is Picabo and I am described as a spayed female, black and white Siberian Husky. You will find me in Kennel # ADPT20.

Age: The shelter thinks I am about 3 years old.

Weight: 45.00 lbs.

Bio: I have been at the shelter since Apr 11, 2026.

Picabo is a friendly, happy dog who loves people, pets and playtime! Like many huskys, she is active and intelligent and will need a home prepared to give her plenty of mental and physical enrichment! Ideally, she is looking for a home where she can be your only four legged companion.

Find out more here.

Step 1In a large heavy skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 Tbsp. tomato oil. Season shrimp with salt and black pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until pink and opaque, about 3 minutes. Transfer shrimp to a plate or bowl.

Step 2Meanwhile, in a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta, stirring occasionally, until al dente according to package directions. Drain.

Step 3In same skillet over medium heat, cook garlic, tomato paste, red pepper flakes, and remaining 2 Tbsp. tomato oil, stirring, until tomato paste deepens in color, about 1 minute. Add sun-dried tomatoes, broth, cream, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits, and cook, stirring occasionally, until sauce slightly reduces, about 5 minutes. Add spinach and cook, stirring, until wilted, 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 4Add pasta, shrimp, and Parmesan. Cook, stirring, until pasta is coated and sauce is glossy; season with salt and black pepper. Remove skillet from heat, cover, and let it sit 2 to 3 minutes. Give pasta another stir to coat.

Step 5Divide pasta and shrimp among bowls. Top with basil and more Parmesan.

Find the ingredients here!

$799.000 - 4 bed 2 bath 1,795 sqft

Beautiful Ranch Style Home with covered Deck & Hot Tub. Set in a quiet residential pocket of Pinole Valley, close to schools, shops, and parks, this well-maintained single-level 4BR/2BA home offers 1,795 sq ft of living space*. A modern front yard sets the tone-agave and native grasses, dramatic and no-fuss. Vaulted ceilings and an easy, open flow create a relaxed vibe. The living room, with a brick fireplace for cool evenings, and a formal dining area connect naturally to the kitchen, where quartz counters, a double oven, and bar seating create a hub for chatty guests.

Listed by: Donald Adamson 510-527-3387

More Info here.

Your Local Business Spotlight

Cafe Tapioca & Donuts

1581 Sycamore Ave, Hercules, CA 94547 - (510)-799-4154

Cafe Tapioca is one of those low-key local spots that people keep coming back to—and once you go, it makes sense why. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it hits every time. If you need a solid pick-me-up, their Vietnamese iced coffee is the move. Strong, smooth, and exactly what you want when you need that boost. They’ve also got a full lineup of drinks, so whether you’re in the mood for something refreshing or just your go-to, they’ve got you covered.

Food-wise, this is a go-to for Banh Mi sandwiches, with the BBQ pork being a standout. Fresh, flavorful, and actually filling. They also keep it simple with breakfast options like sandwiches and donuts, making it an easy stop any time of day. It’s not about being fancy—it’s about being good, consistent, and right here in the community.

Answer: B) Corn-based pinole 🌽
The city’s name comes from “pinole,” a traditional ground corn food used by Native Americans and early settlers.