Local

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell has closed his term with record progress in many areas, including increased police hiring, reduced crime, increased affordable housing, and the creation of the Community Assisted Response and Engagement Department (CARE), while also maintaining strong relationships with the Seattle City Council and attending 1,065 community events.

The Academy for Creating Excellence (ACE) is a Seattle-based organization that provides mentorship and support to young Black males, helping them to succeed in academics, life skills, and leadership development.

A recent analysis by WalletHub has ranked Seattle as the fourth best city in the United States for celebrating the New Year. The city is praised for its vibrant atmosphere, impressive fireworks display, and diverse culinary and entertainment offerings, making it a popular choice for holiday revelers.

The Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers are set to compete for the NFC West championship this Saturday at 5 p.m., with the game broadcast on ABC and ESPN. As anticipation builds for this pivotal matchup, the Seattle community is urged to support local Black-owned businesses. Residents are encouraged to actively engage with these enterprises, fostering economic growth and community solidarity.

Washington state officials emphasize the urgent need for proactive flood protection measures as recent storms highlight vulnerabilities. However, efforts are stalled due to federal funding delays and cuts under the Trump administration, leaving critical projects in limbo.

On the 36th day of their strike, Starbucks workers continue to demand improved wages, scheduling, and guaranteed hours, bolstered by support from local officials and unions. The labor dispute has intensified with over 130 open cases filed against the company, highlighting significant legal challenges.

Seattle firefighters swiftly responded to a significant fire in the Central District on Friday night, successfully containing the blaze to the original house and preventing its spread to nearby homes. Despite the intensity of the flames, no injuries were reported among residents or firefighters, underscoring the effectiveness of the emergency response.

The Making A Difference Foundation's Feeding Our Future program recently celebrated the graduation of its third cohort, which helps disadvantaged youth develop confidence, leadership, and practical business skills through paid skill building, mentorship, and community service.

Despite progress made by the African American Male Achievement (AAMA) program, graduation rates for Black males in Seattle Public Schools remain a concern, as 25 to 30 percent of Black male students still struggle with academics, attendance, and truancy, and community advocates are calling for increased support and engagement from the community.

Black leaders and entrepreneurs have expressed their concern over the Trump administration's policies, which have deepened inequities in wealth, health, and opportunity for Black Americans, as well as harmed Black-owned businesses through tariffs, deportation policies, and the dismantling of DEI initiatives.