🚨 Besa Gordon Launches New FOX Local App TV Commercial

Back2BesaQueens of Converge
Written By Besa Gordon

Written by Besa Gordon - When I launched Back2Besa last year, what was important to me was that one, we uplifted our stories not only from Seattle but all across the region and two, that this show, Back2Besa, was always free and accessible to everyone everywhere, no matter their situation, that way, they can see what I see daily, the beauty, the excellence, and the reliance of our communities across the Pacific Northwest.

Why?... Access to positive images of us is important and necessary, as representation always matters.

So look, no matter where you live—be it the Central District or Centralia, Bellevue or Boise, Portland or Pullman, or anywhere across the country—I want you to join me on this Back2Besa journey by downloading the free FOX Local App on your phone or smart TV. Together, we can elevate the very best of us in our communities.

You'll be able to see what I see, and you will know that our story is amazing and that this uplift is always real.

Featured
On June 14th, Mediums Collective, a fashion powerhouse for nearly a decade, co-founded by brothers Cesar and Roger Maldonado, transformed a city block in Seattle’s Capitol Hill into an extraordinary runway. This event transcended a typical display o

Mediums Collective, a fashion powerhouse for nearly a decade, co-founded by brothers Cesar and Roger Maldonado, transformed a city block in Seattle’s Capitol Hill into an extraordinary runway. This event transcended a typical display of garments; it was a profound celebration of legacy, community, and the transformative power of art. Marking a significant elevation for the collective, the show boldly pushed the boundaries of style and culture.

On June 14th, Mediums Collective, a fashion powerhouse for nearly a decade, co-founded by brothers Cesar and Roger Maldonado, transformed a city block in Seattle’s Capitol Hill into an extraordinary runway. This event transcended a typical display of garments; it was a profound celebration of legacy, community, and the transformative power of art. Marking a significant elevation for the collective, the show boldly pushed the boundaries of style and culture. It served as a vibrant, creative protest, allowing Mediums Collective to express their deepest passions for fashion and storytelling, and to articulate their feelings about the world and their cherished community through a compelling artistic lens.

A special element of the event was the collaboration with Street Queenz, a remarkable women-represented classic car crew. Their presence, with classic cars gracing the runway, created a powerful visual metaphor. The overarching message woven throughout the entire experience was one of human connection and universal love – a particularly poignant and urgent theme in a world that often feels increasingly fragmented and separated. The event meticulously aimed to foster genuine unity, inspire positive change, and uplift every individual present, with a special emphasis on empowering the younger generation.

In a world frequently characterized by frustration and destruction, Mediums Collective powerfully demonstrated the immense capability of utilizing art and voice as potent tools to ignite change and cultivate motivation. The sheer ability to create such a profound and tangible impact within their beloved community was the undeniable driving force behind their unique “protest” through fashion. It passionately emphasized unity, strengthened community bonds, and fostered mutual upliftment for all.

Learn More: https://mediumscollective.com/

Mediums would like to thank the community partners who made this epic event possible: On The Block Seattle Lady West (street Queenz) Siony Bolong-Pleasant Mira Kraft

Powered by Purpose: Mattice Beauty Supply Uplifts Tacoma’s Black Community
Powered by Purpose: Mattice Beauty Supply Uplifts Tacoma’s Black Community

In Tacoma, Washington, Mattice Beauty Supply is a symbol of perseverance and community. Founded by Mattice Hoyt, it's a reflection of her spirit, forged through challenges. Her journey began with a personal struggle, which inspired her to create a supportive environment unlike the negative experience she had endured.

#SupportBlackBusiness powered by Denkyem - In Tacoma, Washington, Mattice Beauty Supply is a symbol of perseverance and community. Founded by Mattice Hoyt, it's a reflection of her spirit, forged through challenges. Her journey began with a personal struggle, which inspired her to create a supportive environment unlike the negative experience she had endured.



Mattice’s path to opening her store was fraught with obstacles, from being blocked by companies to facing an 11-month closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite setbacks, her determination grew. After finally opening, Mattice faced leg amputations. Her community rallied, keeping the store open while she recovered, underscoring the deep connections she cultivated.



What distinguishes Mattice Beauty Supply is her "community conference room." This multi-use space, inspired by her mother's wisdom, offers Black women a place to simply "be." It hosts activities from sewing to homebuyer workshops, fostering belonging and empowerment. Tacoma City Council member Olgy Diaz praises Mattice as an exemplary community member and business owner, particularly highlighting her contributions to children.



Approaching her fifth anniversary, Mattice’s longevity as a Black-Woman, Veteran-owned beauty supply store is a significant achievement, given the high failure rate for similar businesses. Operating a business for four years from a wheelchair, after only walking in the store for three months, powerfully demonstrates her incredible resilience. Mattice Hoyt and Mattice Beauty Supply embody Tacoma's spirit—a story of courage, connection, and an unyielding heart that inspires and uplifts.



Mattice Beauty Supply
3906 S 12th St, Tacoma, WA 98405
(253) 327-1147

Altha’s Louisiana Cajun Store: Bringing Authentic Southern Flavors and Community to Kent
Altha’s Louisiana Cajun Store: Bringing Authentic Southern Flavors and Community to Kent

Reginald Robinson founded Altha’s Louisiana Cajun Store, located in downtown Kent, in 2016 with a vision to bring authentic Southern products to the Seattle area. Naming the store after his mother, he aimed to create more than just a business; he wanted a "home away from home" for his customers.

#SupportBlackBusiness - Reginald Robinson founded Altha’s Louisiana Cajun Store, located in downtown Kent, in 2016 with a vision to bring authentic Southern products to the Seattle area. Naming the store after his mother, he aimed to create more than just a business; he wanted a "home away from home" for his customers. The store serves as a hub for those yearning for the flavors of the South, offering not just products but a strong sense of community and cultural heritage.

Customers like Aaron Adams and Rachael Kinney expressed the importance of authenticity, noting the challenge of finding genuine Southern cuisine in Washington. The store offers "real soul food" and evokes memories of Louisiana, fostering an emotional connection to the food and its place. The sense of community is palpable, as both Robinson and customer Shawn Pimpleton emphasized the family-like environment and the support for black-owned businesses.

The variety of products, including specific items like red beans, oxtail dinner, jambalaya, and unique ingredients like Blue Bell ice cream and boudin, sets Altha’s Louisiana Cajun apart. This highlights the store's commitment to offering a genuine taste of the South, not just generic items. These distinct offerings contribute to the store's unique position and appeal.

Looking to the future, plans include expansion, franchising, and educating children about financial literacy. This reflects the store's growth and the owner’s commitment to both business success and community enrichment. The story of Altha’s Louisiana Cajun is a testament to the power of food to bring people together and preserve cultural traditions.

Altha’s Louisiana Cajun Store

201 E Meeker St, Kent, WA 98032

(253) 719-2242

https://althascajunspices.com/

Beyond the Bottle: La Cha-Bliss Wines Pours Soul into Seattle's Capitol Hill
Beyond the Bottle: La Cha-Bliss Wines Pours Soul into Seattle's Capitol Hill

In the heart of Capitol Hill, a new kind of wine shop is uncorking conversations as much as it is diverse vintages. La Cha-Bliss Wines, which officially opened its doors on May 17, 2025, is more than just a retail space; it's a passion project brought to life by owner Howard Russell, a seasoned entertainer with a vision for inclusion.

#SupportBlackBusiness - Seattle, WA – In the heart of Capitol Hill, a new kind of wine shop is uncorking conversations as much as it is diverse vintages. La Cha-Bliss Wines, which officially opened its doors on May 17, 2025, is more than just a retail space; it's a passion project brought to life by owner Howard Russell, a seasoned entertainer with a vision for inclusion.

Russell, known in the Pacific Northwest for his long-running drag show "Lashes," has channeled his vibrant energy into creating a wine experience that champions underrepresented voices. "I wanted to focus more on diversity," Russell explains, "especially women wines, and especially PC wines, especially women of color." This ethos is evident in his carefully curated selection, which aims to provide customers with both a bottle of wine and the compelling history behind it.

The inspiration for La Cha-Bliss Wines struck Russell during a trip to Portola, where a small wine shop sparked the idea of owning his own. Back in Seattle, he secured the location over seven other contenders by clearly articulating his unique vision. The shop's name itself is a nod to his entertainment background and a playful twist on the wine region Chablis, encouraging a unique pronunciation: "La Cha-Bliss."

What truly sets La Cha-Bliss Wines apart is its commitment to showcasing wines from diverse producers. Russell highlights "Descended Wines," owned by two gay men, as a top seller. The store also features "Her," a wine made by an African American woman who is a breast cancer survivor, and "House of Brown," from an African American family, which consistently sells out. For those seeking non-alcoholic options, a robust selection is also available.

Beyond the bottles, Russell offers tasting experiences where he not only samples his top wines but also delves into their stories and aromas. His personal favorite, a cold Chardonnay, reflects his approachable and authentic demeanor.

Opening a Black and queer-owned business has been a journey of both excitement and challenge for Russell. He acknowledges the fear factor of starting a new venture but emphasizes the overwhelming community support he has received. "To be black and to have the support that I've gotten from the community is very overwhelming," he shares.

Russell's advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple: "Whatever your mind is set at, just do it." He meditates daily to clear his mind and firmly believes in manifestation, stating, "If I believe it, I receive it." This unwavering faith has been crucial, especially as he has personally invested his entire 401(k) into the business.

For Russell, La Cha-Bliss Wines is "pure love." He sees it as his "child," a creation he nurtured from the ground up, placing every detail from the floor to the ceiling himself. His dedication extends to the community, having raised significant funds for HIV awareness and children with cancer.

Looking ahead, Howard Russell envisions expanding La Cha-Bliss Wines to include its own wine bar and eventually, a full-fledged winery producing "Labavis wines" with unique grape blends. His drive and belief in his own ability are palpable. "I believe I can do it, and so why not give it a try?" he asserts. "I know that I can make it to the top."

In a city known for its vibrant and inclusive spirit, La Cha-Bliss Wines is not just selling wine; it's cultivating a space where every bottle tells a story and every purchase supports a vision of diversity, passion, and Black joy. As Russell aptly puts it, "Black joy is living."

La Cha-Bliss Wines

1412 12th Ave, Seattle, WA 98122

https://www.lachablisswines.com/

Besa Gordon
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