Local

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.

Public health officials in Washington state have issued a warning about the potential for "toilet rats" following historic flooding that displaced numerous rodents. Residents are advised to remain calm and take precautions if they encounter a rat entering their home through the toilet.

Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland's Fairness for Servicemembers and Their Families Act of 2025, co-led by Senator John Cornyn, has been signed into law, ensuring life insurance benefits for military personnel and their families are adjusted to reflect current economic conditions.

Mayor-elect Katie Wilson has appointed leadership for three major city departments as she moves to address homelessness, reduce childcare costs, and improve Seattle’s transportation system.

In a decisive action against human trafficking and sexual exploitation, the Seattle Police Department (SPD) has designated Club Dollhouse, a strip club on Aurora Avenue North, as a chronic nuisance property. The designation follows an extensive investigation revealing illegal activities, including underage individuals working, sexual exploitation, and illegal alcohol sales. SPD has mandated that the club's owner submit a plan to address these public safety concerns within seven days.

The Washington Transportation Commission has approved the renaming of a 10-mile stretch of Benson Road in South King County to Martin Luther King Jr. Way in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy, with the support of the Kent Black Action Commission, State Representative Mia Gregerson, and the Washington State Department of Transportation.