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Trivia Time
What was Hercules originally known for in the late 1800s?
A) Shipbuilding
B) Gunpowder manufacturing
C) Gold mining
D) Railroad construction
(Answer is at the bottom of the newsletter)
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West Contra Costa Schools Face Major Enrollment Decline
The West Contra Costa Unified School District is facing a significant drop in student enrollment, with projections showing a potential loss of up to 2,000 students by 2031.
District leaders say the decline is tied to ongoing trends like lower birth rates, rising housing costs, and families relocating out of the area. Fewer students ultimately means less state funding, which could impact staffing, programs, and school operations in the coming years.
School board members are now beginning early conversations about how to respond, including possible school consolidations and long-term planning to stabilize the district.
For communities like Hercules, Pinole, and surrounding areas, this is something to watch as it could shape the future of local schools and resources.
Some board members also raised concerns about how quickly the district needs to act, emphasizing that waiting too long could make decisions more difficult down the line. Planning ahead now may help avoid more disruptive changes later, especially as enrollment trends continue to shift.
At the same time, leaders acknowledged the importance of balancing financial realities with the needs of students, families, and staff. Any future decisions around closures or restructuring are expected to involve community input, making this an ongoing conversation that will likely evolve over the next several years.
Read more via Grandview Independent here.
Visit the Smuggler’s Stash - A Star Wars Inspired Mystery Pack Market
Date/Time: Sunday - 5/3 1PM - 6PM
Location/Cost: Four Fools Winery - 13 Pacific Ave., Rodeo, CA - FREE
The Force arrives early at Four Fools Winery! Join us for a galactic pre-May the 4th celebration where mystery rules and smuggling is highly encouraged (the fun kind, of course).
Our vendors are transforming into intergalactic traders for one night only each offering exclusive Mystery Packs filled with hidden treasures from across the cosmos along with other fun things.
Explore themed wares, sip stellar wines, and discover what secrets lie inside every stash. Costumes are welcome whether you’re a Jedi, a srebel, a droid, or a stylish Sith on holiday.
What’s inside? Only the Force knows…
✨ Mystery Packs for purchase from every vendor
🎶 Out-of-this-world music
🍷 Wine + Star Wars themed specialty drinks
🎭 Cosplay encouraged
Gather your crew and prepare for an adventure. Smuggler’s honor: this is a day you won’t want to miss!
Wine Run 5K – Rodeo
Join us at Four Fools Winery for a fun run/walk along the Bay Trail!
13 Pacific Ave, Rodeo
Saturday, June 13 | 11 AM
Early bird pricing ends April 22 (prices increase after)
All ages welcome (1–99)
Includes: • T-shirt
• Wine glass
• Finisher medal
• 5 oz wine pour (or soda for under 21)
Supporting the Rodeo Baseball Association
Run now. Wine later
Spring Book Sale
Date/Time: 04/19/2026 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: Hercules Library 109 Civic Drive Hercules, California 94547
Community Clean-Up Day
Date/Time: 05/02/2026 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Location: Corporation Yard 1000 Sycamore Ave., Hercules, CA 94547
FAMILY GAME NIGHT & KARAOKE at THE WATERFRONT
DATE/TIME: Friday, April 24 • 6 PM - 10 PM
LOCATION: The Waterfront Rodeo 13 Pacific Avenue Rodeo, CA 94572
REGISTER HERE
Congratulations to HŌM Coffee on their grand opening! ☕️
It’s exciting to welcome this beautiful new space to the Hercules waterfront. HŌM (pronounced HOME) truly reflects what makes this community special—a dedication to bringing people together, supporting local connection, and creating a warm, inviting place for all.
Small businesses like this play a vital role in strengthening both our local economy and the sense of community here in Contra Costa County.
Be sure to stop by and show your support:
2525 Bayfront Blvd, Suite E, Hercules
HŌM Coffee
2525 Bayfront Blvd, Suite E, Hercules
https://homcoffees.com
MISSING CHILDREN IN THE BAY AREA
Missing Since: June 3, 1988 - Pinole, CA - Age Now: 45 Years OlD - Female
Amber's photo is shown age-progressed to 39 years. She disappeared while she was playing in her front yard. Amber has very poor hearing if she does not wear a hearing aid. When she was last seen, she was missing her right front tooth.
BAY BEST FRIENDS
Located At: Martinez
Description: My name is Bode and I am described as a neutered male, brown and white Pit Bull Terrier.
You will find me in Kennel # ADPT07.
Age: The shelter thinks I am about 4 years old.
Weight: 66.00 lbs.
Bio: I have been at the shelter since Jan 16, 2026.
Bode is a lively, curious dog with a lot of personality! He enjoys exploring his surroundings, chasing toys, and relaxing once he settles in. With an experienced home that can provide structure and outlets for his energy, Bode is ready to be a fun and devoted companion.
Find out more here.
THE BAY TABLE
Million-Dollar Chicken Skillet
Ingredients
4 oz. thick-cut bacon (about 4 slices), cut into 1/4" pieces
2 scallions, white and green parts separated, thinly sliced
4 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup sliced almonds
2 Tbsp. mayonnaise
1 cup shredded cheddar, divided
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
4 (8-oz.) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. hot or regular paprika
2 tsp. all-purpose flour
Directions
Arrange racks in upper and lower thirds of oven; preheat to 400°. In a cold, large, stainless steel or cast-iron skillet, arrange bacon in a single layer. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until crispy, about 10 minutes.
Remove skillet from heat and transfer bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain. Pour off all but 2 Tbsp. bacon fat.
Reserve 2 Tbsp. cooked chopped bacon for serving. Transfer remaining bacon to a medium bowl. Add white scallion parts, cream cheese, almonds, mayonnaise, 3/4 cup cheddar, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/2 tsp. pepper and mix until combined. In another medium bowl, mix breadcrumbs, butter, and remaining 1/4 cup cheese until combined.
Return skillet to medium heat. Pat chicken dry; season all over with garlic powder, paprika, and 2 tsp. salt. Once pan is hot, cook chicken in bacon fat, undisturbed, until bottom side is golden brown, about 5 minutes. Flip chicken and top with cream cheese mixture. Top cream cheese mixture with breadcrumb mixture.
Bake chicken on lower oven rack for 15 minutes.
Turn on broiler. Move skillet to upper rack. Broil, watching closely, until cheese is melted and breadcrumbs are starting to brown, 3 to 4 minutes.
Transfer chicken to a platter. Using a dry kitchen towel or pot holder, return skillet to medium heat on the stovetop. Sprinkle with flour and whisk until combined and gravy is starting to thicken, 1 to 2 minutes.
Return chicken to sauce in skillet or spoon sauce over chicken on platter. Top with green scallion parts and reserved 2 Tbsp. bacon.
BAY SHORE REAL ESTATE
14196 Hercules St, Hesperia, CA 92345
FOR RENT - $2,995/mo. 4bed - 3bath - 2,626sqft - 4,909sqft lot
Designed with an open-concept layout, the home features a stylish kitchen with quartz countertops, white shaker cabinets, a large island, and sleek finishes that flow seamlessly into the living and dining areas-perfect for entertaining. The main floor includes a bedroom and full bath ideal for guests or multi-generational living, while upstairs boasts a spacious loft, convenient laundry room, and a generous primary suite with dual vanities and a walk-in closet. Step outside to a private backyard with block wall fencing, covered patio with ceiling fans, and low-maintenance turf. Additional highlights include a 2-car garage, energy-efficient features including solar, and a prime location near schools, parks, and commuter routes.
Listed by: Michael Gharib (909) 303-1766
More Info here.
BAY SHORE BUSINESS
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.
TRIVIA ANSWER
Answer: B) Gunpowder manufacturing 💥
Hercules was a company town built around the California Powder Works, which later became part of the Hercules Powder Company—giving the city its name!