Niema Jordan

Mayoral profile: Mike Parker

If elected, the 73-year-old Mike Parker said he will focus on education, affordable housing and job training.

“I believe the school system has failed both the teachers and the parents in Richmond,” said Parker. “People don’t have confidence in it.”

Mural featuring Richmond diversity celebrated

Last June the Richmond Arts and Culture Commission unveiled Richmond Identities: Extraordinary Lives/Ordinary People, an intricate five-panel mural spearheaded by artist Judy Baca, at the Richmond Senior Center on Macdonald Avenue. About 50 people gathered this past Sunday to officially dedicate the mural.

AC Transit gives 72-Hour notice for strike as BART strike looms

While Bay Area residents deal with the disruption of a possible BART shutdown Tuesday, AC Transit hit them with another major blow. AC Transit workers gave a 72-hour notice that they intend to walk off the job on Thursday. If the bus workers make good on their threat and BART is on strike, two of the Bay Area’s largest public transit outlets would be shutdown. Between AC Transit and BART, they transport some 300,000 Bay Area residents each day. With…

Richmond students offered SAT for free

In the past, a limited number of SAT fee waivers were available to students who qualified for free and reduced-cost lunches. This year the school district will cover testing fees out of the general fund. The board says allowing students to take the test free of charge promotes a culture of college and career readiness.

Mobile farmer’s market makes stops in Richmond

Janie Holland, community ambassador for Freshest Cargo’s North Richmond stop, attempts to engage every person walking past the parking lot of McGlothen Temple Church of God in Christ. “Come get some fruit,” Holland says. This is her routine every Wednesday. She knows most of the people who have gathered at the food truck selling only fresh fruits and vegetables. She points out the regulars and names a few people whom she expects to show up before the truck leaves. “It’s…