City of Pinole Honors Green Day with a Key to the City

Pinole, CA – September 23, 2024 – Yesterday, the City of Pinole presented legendary punk rock band Green Day the Key to the City, commemorating their deep roots and connection to Pinole. Mayor Maureen Toms presented the honor during a lively ceremony outside the 7-Eleven on Pinole Valley Road—a location of special significance to the band, who fondly referred to it as their “go-to” spot during their formative high school years.

The event, which drew a crowd of around 200 fans, was part of a broader celebration marking the launch of Green Day’s Punk Bunny Anniversary Blend Coffee at 7-Eleven, as well as the 30th anniversary of their breakout album. City Manager Kelcey Young introduced Mayor Toms, who took the stage alongside the band members, as fans and their families—many of whom still call Pinole home—watched in anticipation.

“It’s a special day for the City of Pinole,” said Mayor Toms. “We come together not just to celebrate music, but to celebrate our own. While Green Day may have traveled the world, their roots remain deeply planted here in Pinole.” This Key to the City is the first ever awarded by Pinole, marking a significant moment in the city’s history.

Green Day posed for photos with City staff as well as Mayor Toms and Councilor Murphy. A signed photo and copy of the Key to the City will be displayed at City Hall for Public viewing. “It is exciting to see this kind of partnership between such an influential band, and the City of Pinole,” stated Councilor Murphy.

In attendance was Billie Joe Armstrong’s former music teacher, Mary Louise Fiatarone, a long-standing community figure and Pinole business owner. Fiatarone’s reunion with her famed student added a heartfelt element to the day’s festivities, underscoring the band’s connection to their local community.

Another event highlight included a generous donation given by the 7-Eleven Cares Foundation to the Boys and Girls Club of Contra Costa, which will have a direct impact on Pinole’s Ellerhorst Clubhouse location. Representatives from the Ellerhorst Clubhouse were in attendance, and with the City of Pinole, expressed their appreciation for their support of the local community.

Green Day’s international success is a source of pride for the City of Pinole, because their art, creativity and passion has inspired millions, while the band continues to pay homage to the small town where it all began.

Mayor Toms continued, “Today, we honor not just Green Day’s incredible talent and success, but their loyalty to their roots. This Key symbolizes our appreciation for all they’ve given us, not just in music, but in spirit. May this key always remind them that no matter how far they go, Pinole is home.”