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A Dream Realized: Rainier Beach High School's New Era
SEATTLE, WA – Decades of unwavering advocacy and community dedication have culminated in a breathtaking reality at Rainier Beach High School. What stands today is more than just a building; it's a testament to the power of collective vision, a symbol of self-worth, and a vibrant hub for a community that has historically fought for its fair share.
Celebrating 40 Years: The Enduring Legacy of the Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Fund
Seattle, WA – What began as a heartfelt initiative by dedicated neighbors 40 years ago has blossomed into a beacon of hope and opportunity for countless students in the Mount Baker community.
Umami Kushi: Harold Fields' Culinary Journey to Reinvent Grab-and-Go
Seattle, WA – In a recent interview on "The Day with Trae," Harold Fields, owner of the acclaimed Umami Kushi, shared the inspiring story behind his unique restaurant, a culinary venture born from a keen observation of shifting food trends and a deep-seated passion for flavor.
Championing Mental Health: Jennifer Winslow's Vision for King County's Crisis Care Centers
Seattle, WA – In a compelling interview on "The Day with Trae," Jennifer Winslow, Strategic Planning Manager for the King County Crisis Care Centers initiative, offered an insightful look into the ambitious program designed to revolutionize mental health and substance use care in the region.
Juneteenth at Grant Park: Spokane Celebrates Unity
Spokane, Washington, recently celebrated Juneteenth with a vibrant community event at Grant Park, featuring a range of activities and powerful testimonies. The celebration, described as a "city-wide family reunion," brought together a diverse group of attendees to honor Black excellence, history, and joy.
Besa Gordon: Good Vibes and Indigenous Joy at Waterfront Park's Indigiqueer Celebration
Hey everyone! Besa Gordon here, and let me tell you, my day at Seattle's Waterfront Park, Pier 62, for the Indigiqueer Celebration was fast-paced, as I was also shooting a segment with my producer, Tavis Conway, for a future episode of Back2Besa.
Unveiling History Through Performance: Chris Hopper's "Reparations Play"
Seattle, WA – In an insightful interview on "The Day with Trae," Chris Hopper, the writer and director of the "Reparations Play," shed light on his powerful theatrical production, which aims to educate and remind audiences about the resilience and history of African Americans in the United States.
Jazz Highlights the Need for Crime Survivor Resources on Good Day Seattle
#Back2Besa - Jazz from Seattle appeared on Good Day Seattle with Erin Mayovsky yesterday to discuss King County's first-ever Summit on Crime Survivors. Held earlier this month, this significant event gathered crime survivors, victims' loved ones, elected officials, and various professionals to amplify the voices of those impacted by crime.
Spokane NAACP Celebrates Juneteenth with a Focus on Community, Leadership, and Education
Gonzaga University hosted the Spokane NAACP Juneteenth Fireside Chat on Juneteenth. This event brought together community leaders, a former NFL star, and an enthusiastic youth council to discuss the enduring importance of Juneteenth and the ongoing fight for liberation. The discussion emphasized themes of community, leadership, and the critical role of education in shaping the future.
Shining Bright: King Leo & the Power of Community on "We Live In Color"
A recent episode of "We Live In Color" on Converge Media was nothing short of powerful and insightful, featuring host Deaunte Damper in conversation with the incredible Lee Angelo Jones, also known as King Leo. This episode was a deep dive into identity, community support, and the vibrant world of drag kings.
The Beat Goes On: Brian Kirk's Journey to Village Theatre's "The Color Purple"
Seattle, WA – In a recent interview on "The Day with Trae," Brian Kirk, the talented drummer for the Village Theatre's production of The Color Purple, shared his inspiring musical journey, revealing how a childhood surrounded by jazz legends led him to the stage and pit alike.
Episode 2 of Almost the Weekend Serves Events, Culture, and Community Realness
Besa Gordon and Curtis “Cuddy” Delgardo II are back for Episode 2 of Almost the Weekend, and this week’s show is packed with energy, laughs, and a whole new set of weekend picks from Seattle to Tacoma. Whether you’re into yacht parties, iconic statues, or discovering new artists on the rise, this episode taps in with everything—and everyone—you need to know.
Celebrating Community, Heritage, and Milestones with Daemeon "Big D" Burrell
In a heartwarming and insightful episode of "The Day With Trae," host Trae Holiday sat down with long-time community member and Converge Media supporter, Daemeon "Big D" Burrell, for a deep dive into the essence of growing up in Seattle's Central District, the importance of maintaining community ties, and celebrating significant life milestones.
Jazz is Going National! Hosting Back2Besa on FOX SOUL!
Get ready, Seattle! This week, we're thrilled to announce that our very own Jazz from Seattle is stepping into the national spotlight as she guest hosts Back2Besa on FOX SOUL. While Besa Gordon is on leave, Jazz is taking the reins, bringing her unique voice and perspective to a national audience – a massive leap for this talent from the Central District.
Bruised, Not Broken: Besa Gordon Opens Up About Eczema and Confidence Struggles
By Besa Gordon - Whew, can we chat for a moment? On this day, I stopped by Good Day Seattle for the first time in over a month since taking my break from Back2Besa. Topic? Juneteenth Events. Speaking of Juneteenth, shoutout to everyone I met, you truly allowed me to leave the festival with my heart full.
PHOTOS: Juneteenth @ Jimi through the lens of Susan Fried
Here is King County Equity Now’s Juneteenth Celebration at Jimi Hendrix Park in Seattle, Washington through the lens of photographer Susan Fried.
Zara Jo Beauty Supply: A Central District Newcomer Leads With Representation
Six days a week sits Jamal Wilson, the owner and founder of Zara Jo Beauty Supply, in his new storefront on Martin Luther King Jr. Way. Opened on May 10 of this year, the vibrant Central District storefront provides beauty products and services for the Black community that were otherwise scarce.
Almost the Weekend with Besa & Cuddy Kicks Off with Juneteenth Vibes and Must-Attend Events 6/18 @ 5pm PST
Seattle’s weekend scene just got a fresh new vibe with the launch of Almost the Weekend, hosted by media personality Besa Gordon and community connector Curtis Delgardo II, aka Cuddy. In the very first episode, the dynamic duo sets the tone with infectious energy, witty banter, and a curated list of Juneteenth events that stretch from Seattle to Portland and beyond.
14th Annual Linda Sweezer Memorial Juneteenth Festival is Coming to Kent This Juneteenth
By Besa Gordon - If you're looking for a meaningful way to celebrate Juneteenth this year, Kent is the place to be. On Saturday, June 21st, two powerful community events will be happening side by side at Morrill Meadows Park, and both are free, family-friendly, and centered on Black excellence, health, and history.
Voices of Hope and Healing: King County's Inaugural Summit on Crime Survivors Marks a Pivotal Moment
Seattle, WA – June 13, 2025, will be remembered as a landmark day for King County, which hosted its first-ever Summit on Crime Survivors at the Sea Mar Museum of Chicano/a/Latino/a Culture. The event convened a broad spectrum of individuals—survivors of violent crime, families of victims, elected officials, law enforcement, victim advocates, community organizations, and mental health experts—to confront the profound impact of crime and the urgent need for robust community support.