Seattle Medium Rhythm & News Podcast

Washington Lawmakers Weigh Millionaire's Tax To Fund Education, Infrastructure

Washington lawmakers have commenced a new legislative session with significant proposals on the agenda, including a 9.9% "millionaire's tax" on incomes exceeding $1 million. Governor Bob Ferguson advocates that this tax could yield billions for education, infrastructure, and tax relief for working families. Additionally, the session will address investments in housing, transportation, education, public safety, and protections for immigrant communities—issues that disproportionately impact African Americans and other marginalized groups throughout the state. Ed Prince shares more information on the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Sheila Winston Offers Practical Budgeting Advice To Help Manage Finances

In the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast, Sheila Winston, a business consultant with Chase, provides insights into effective budgeting strategies. As financial pressures mount due to increasing costs and competing priorities, budgeting emerges as a crucial instrument for financial management.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Congresswoman Strickland Leads Bipartisan Effort To Prevent Reinstatement Of Confederate Base Names

In a significant move addressing the contentious debate over race and history, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland of Washington's 10th District is spearheading a bipartisan initiative to prevent the reinstatement of Confederate names on U.S. military bases. This effort comes in response to the Trump administration's indication of plans to reverse previous renaming efforts aimed at promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Political commentator Opio Sokoni joins the Rhythm & News Podcast to talk more about this issue.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Benson Highway Renamed Martin Luther King Jr. Way After Community Efforts

The Washington State Transportation Commission has approved the renaming of a 10-mile stretch of Benson Highway in South King County to Martin Luther King Jr. Way, following nearly two years of advocacy and public engagement. This decision reflects the legacy, resilience, and power of community action. Gwen Allen-Carston, executive director of the Kent Black Action Commission, played a pivotal role in leading this effort.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Rhonda Lewis Appointed As First Black Woman On King County Council

In a historic move, Rhonda Lewis has been appointed to represent District 2 on the King County Council, marking her as the first Black woman to serve in this capacity. Her appointment signifies a pivotal shift, as women now constitute the majority of the nine-member council for the first time in the county's history. Lewis's presence on the council is expected to introduce fresh perspectives and priorities, underscoring the evolving dynamics of local governance. 

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Concerns Emerge Over Seattle King County NAACP's Direction

The Seattle King County NAACP's readiness to progress is under scrutiny as Dr. Carl Mack, its former president, returns to the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast. Last week's discussion raised questions about the branch's future trajectory, suggesting potential challenges. This morning's dialogue seeks to explore these concerns further, providing clarity on the branch's capacity to advance.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Seattle Public Library Marks Half-Century Milestone Of Douglass-Truth Branch

The Douglass-Truth Branch of the Seattle Public Library, named in honor of abolitionists Frederick Douglass and Sojourner Truth, commemorates its 50th anniversary with a community celebration on December 13.

Elisa Murray from the Seattle Public Library shares more information on the historical significance of the branch's name change and the planned festivities.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Debate Sparks Over Choice Of Consulting Firm For Washington Reparations Study

The Washington State Department of Commerce has appointed Truclusion as the consulting firm to lead the state's inaugural reparations study for descendants of enslaved Africans. This decision has prompted scrutiny from community leaders regarding the firm's credentials, its connection to Washington's Black community, and the transparency of the state's procurement process.

Former State Representative Jesse Wineberry, a key advocate for the reparations legislation, is addresses these concerns on the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

National NAACP Clears Local Branch After Database Anomalies Investigation

The Seattle–King County NAACP, recognized as the oldest NAACP branch west of the Mississippi, has resumed full operations following the national office's decision to lift the suspension on local elections. This development comes after an internal review addressed database anomalies from the branch's 2024 elections. Dr. Carl Mack, former president of the Seattle–King County NAACP, elaborated on the matter during an appearance on the Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Tips To Safeguard Against Holiday Fraud As Scammers Exploit Busy Season

As the holiday season unfolds, the threat of scams looms large, with fraudsters employing increasingly sophisticated tactics. Last year, nearly one-third of Americans were ensnared by online holiday scams, resulting in losses exceeding $302 million for Washington state consumers alone. To safeguard their finances and avert falling prey to such schemes, individuals are advised to exercise caution, particularly regarding deceptive travel websites and fraudulent package delivery notifications.

Quincy Crawford, Branch Manager at Chase Bank, talks about how people can help protect their money and avoid falling victim to holiday scams.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.