Seattle Medium Rhythm & News Podcast

The United Negro College Fund's Portfolio Project is a pivotal initiative aimed at empowering African American high school students from low-income and underrepresented backgrounds. By providing essential tools, resources, and mentorship, the program facilitates these students' successful navigation of the college application process, specifically targeting 11th and 12th graders in their pursuit of higher education. UNCF Portfolio Project Coordinator for Seattle and Portland, Dallas Richardson, has the insight.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast explores strategies for cost-effective summer travel, featuring insights from Quincy Crawford of Chase Bank on optimizing credit card rewards and considering innovative vacation options. 

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Cierra Sisters will host a community event, Wellness on the Block, at the Skyway Resource Center in Seattle on July 19th. The event aims to promote community wellness through a block walk, food, games, prizes, vendors, and various activities.

Shayla Akande, the new CEO of Cierra Sisters, alongside Board President De De Scott, share more information about the event and reflect on the organization's commitment to uplifting and supporting the local community.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Byrd Barr Place is set to host its second annual Block Party, a community-focused event celebrating the cultural heritage of Seattle's Central District. Scheduled from noon to 5 p.m. on 18th Avenue, the event will include live music, diverse food offerings, local vendor shopping, and entertainment such as bouncy houses. Performances by DJ Topspin and headliner Royce the Choice will highlight the festivities.

Rosie Grant from Byrd Barr Place provides further insights into the celebration and its anticipated impact on the community.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

King County's property tax relief program for seniors and disabled residents has expanded, increasing income eligibility to broaden access. Despite this progress, the system remains challenging to navigate, particularly for seniors unfamiliar with online applications. The Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle is actively assisting elders in accessing these benefits, ensuring they can age in place with dignity and stability.

Linda Taylor, Housing Director for the Urban League, elaborates on the program's workings and the organization's efforts to support seniors in securing these essential benefits.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Controversy surrounds the potential demolition of the historic building that once housed the Seattle Opportunities Industrialization Center (SOIC) and later the Seattle Vocational Institute (SVI), a site of profound significance to the Central District and African American community. Established in 1966 under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Samuel B. McKinney, SOIC played a crucial role in training and placing African Americans into the workforce during a time of scarce opportunities. Community activist Eddie Rye, Jr. is actively raising awareness about the threat to this landmark, highlighting its historical importance and the need to preserve its legacy.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The U.S. House of Representatives has approved a budget proposal that seeks to reduce Pell Grant funding by $9 billion, a move that could significantly impact low-income, first-generation, and adult students who rely on these grants for educational support. The proposal includes measures to decrease the maximum grant award and impose stricter eligibility criteria, potentially restricting access for many students. Charlene Crowell, a prominent advocate for financial justice, is available to provide insight into the implications of this development.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Sheila Winston, a Senior Business Banking Consultant with Chase Bank, emphasizes the dual nature of small business ownership, highlighting both its challenges and rewards. She underscores the critical role of trust and collaboration, advocating for the support of reliable allies, consultants, and confidants as essential in navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The deployment of National Guard troops in Los Angeles without state consent has evoked comparisons to 2020, when similar measures were employed by the Trump administration to suppress Black-led protests advocating for justice and reform. This development has resulted in an increased federal presence in majority-Black cities and a resurgence of rhetoric that criminalizes protest and dissent. Political commentator Opio Sokoni addresses these concerns on the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast, highlighting the implications for the future of Black cities, Black mayors, and Black-led movements.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Tommie Burton, renowned for his gospel and soul music, has been appointed as the official national anthem singer for the Seattle Kraken. Burton's musical career began modestly with karaoke nights and open mic sessions, evolving to performances before 17,000 spectators at Climate Pledge Arena. He reflects on his musical journey and the elements that sustain his vocal and spiritual vitality on this episode of the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett