Seattle Medium Rhythm & News Podcast

Acts On Stage will present its Teen Summer Musical production of 'Peter Pan' at Seattle Center’s McCaw Hall from August 28 to 30. This year's performance notably features three young Black actors in leading roles, continuing the nonprofit's mission to introduce generations of young people, particularly youth of color, to theater while fostering confidence, discipline, and leadership. Tickets for the upcoming show are available through the organization's website.

Isiah Anderson Jr., co-founder and artistic director of Acts on Stage, shares more information about the production.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast, hosted by Christopher B. Bennett, recently featured Shak Adebimpe, Executive Director and Market Director at Chase in Washington, to address the escalating issue of summer travel scams. The discussion focused on prevalent risks, including fraudulent vacation rentals and deceptive flight offers, aiming to provide consumers with essential guidance to protect their finances during the busy holiday season.

The CD Panthers Cheer Program and its coach, ShaVon Robinson, have been recognized in The Seattle Medium's inaugural Best of the Best Northwest Readers' Choice Awards. Robinson was named Best Female Youth Coach, while the CD Panthers received the honor of Best Youth Cheer Squad. The program is noted for its commitment to mentoring and developing young women, fostering leadership skills and confidence beyond competitive achievements. Robinson recently discussed these accolades and the team's upcoming season on the Rhythm & News Podcast.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

VCBynum Arts and Education is set to launch its Katherine Dunham-Inspired Summer Dance Camp next week, an initiative designed to connect young participants with the influential American dancer's profound legacy. The program aims to cultivate artistic skills, build confidence, and foster a deeper appreciation for African and African American culture. Founder Vania Bynum underscores the organization's commitment to utilizing dance as a powerful tool for community building and personal development, reinforcing the arts' vital role in strengthening societal bonds.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Island Soul Restaurant in Columbia City has earned top honors in The Seattle Medium's inaugural Best of the Best Northwest Readers' Choice Awards. The establishment was recognized as the region's best bar and grill and secured the runner-up position for best live music venue. Owner Theo Martin, during a recent podcast appearance, underscored the importance of cultivating community spaces through food and culture.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

A 4 Apple Family Learning Center has been honored at The Seattle Medium's inaugural Best of the Best Northwest Readers' Choice Awards, recognizing its three decades of providing culturally responsive early childhood education and support. The organization was awarded Best Educational Support Program and achieved runner-up status for Best Youth Organization – Non-Athletic, highlighting its sustained commitment to fostering children's development and community success. Appollonia Washington, CEO and co-owner of A 4 Apple Family Learning Center, joins the Rhythm & News Podcast. 

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Tabor 100 is set to host its Small Business Showcase this weekend, with Jason Tran representing the organization, to empower local entrepreneurs. The event aims to strengthen the community by facilitating networking and introducing business owners to residents, thereby fostering business growth. This initiative underscores the critical role small businesses play as the backbone of the local economy.  Jason Tran of Tabor 100, joins the Rhythm & News Podcast. 

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Byrd Barr Place has transferred its First Right of Refusal for the historic Liberty Bank Building to Africatown Community Land Trust, fulfilling a commitment first envisioned nearly a decade ago. This agreement strengthens the long-term goal of community ownership and preserves the building's legacy as a symbol of Black entrepreneurship, economic opportunity, and community investment in Seattle's Central District. Wyking Garrett, President and CEO of Africatown Community Land Trust, joins the Rhythm & News Podcast. 

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Dr. Angela Griffin, CEO of Byrd Barr Place, has been honored as Best CEO/Executive Director in the nonprofit category at The Seattle Medium's inaugural Best of the Best Northwest Readers' Choice Awards. Byrd Barr Place, a vital cornerstone of Seattle's Black community for over six decades, also earned recognition as Best Community Advocate in Education and was named runner-up for Best Non-Profit Organization. The accolades underscore the organization's enduring commitment to providing essential services and fostering stronger, healthier, and more financially secure lives for families.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Nicole Camp, founder and winemaker of LaShellé Wines, has been honored as Best Black Winemaker in The Seattle Medium's inaugural Best of the Best Northwest Readers' Choice Awards. Her Woodinville-based LaShellé Wines, which began as a backyard experiment, has grown into an award-winning boutique winery. Notably, it is one of Washington state's few Black woman-owned wineries, signifying a significant milestone in regional entrepreneurship and craftsmanship.

Interview By Chris B. Bennett.