5 things to do in Richmond this week
Highlights include: North Richmond celebrates the grand reopening of Shields-Reid Park; Little Shop of Horrors opens at Masquers Playhouse; Point Richmond Music Festival returns.

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Latest News
North Richmond blues festival returns for 15th year at renovated park
The free July 11 festival at Shields-Reid Park doubles as a tribute to the neighborhood’s blues legacy and the debut of a $7 million park makeover.
Sandwich surge: New banh mi, sub, burger and tea room options hit the East Bay
A running list of restaurants that have recently opened in Berkeley, Oakland, Richmond, and beyond.
I overcame years of addiction. Now I help my Richmond neighbors make healthier choices
Iron Triangle resident Wanette Foreman got her life back on track with support from her church community and assistance from county programs. Today sheโs giving back as an organizer with Richmond Rising.
City
Where to watch Fourth of July fireworks
The Golden Gate Bridge will be closed during its fireworks show, so the Richmond bridge will serve as a detour.
Community
OpenAI co-founder is among billionaires pouring money into a Berkeley-based firm
KoBold Metals, which is prowling the world for critical minerals needed for artificial intelligence, is backed by the company that’s opening a facility on Richmond’s waterfront.

Taste the latest in East Bay cuisine at Pop Nosh 2026
Join the Nosh team July 18 at Temescal Brewing for an afternoon of food, music, prizes and more.
SCHOOLS
Hercules High teacher told Latino student she would support his deportation if he was ‘illegal’
Update: WCCUSD said Wednesday that it investigated complaints made against English teacher Michelle Gerst in February, put her on paid administrative leave and ultimately reinstated her.
Public safety
Richmond’s fight against fireworks now includes a fulltime police drone officer
Along with the extra eyes in the skies, the city and community members are educating Spanish speakers and considering tougher penalties that would hold property owners accountable.
How Richmond works
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Richmondside’s Alejandra Armstrong recognized as โunsung heroโ by SPJ NorCal
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