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Weekend Listen: Aurora Avenue residents call for urgent gun violence measures, Longview rallies after paper mill disaster, students in Bothell are fighting for their SRO, and great blue herons find a home in Redmond

Today, we’re bringing you the best from the KUOW Newsroom First, residents of North Seattle along Aurora Avenue are on edge, after a recent surge of gun violence in a neighborhood that has been a longtime hotspot for human trafficking. City officials say they’re working urgently to close streets and assign police patrols Next, the latest from the paper mill disaster in Longview, where earlier this week, the names were released of the 11 people who died. The scope of the tragedy has sparked concerns about the lasting impact on this Southwest Washington town. Next, students and families in Bothell have been pushing back against a decision to not renew the contract of a popular school resource officer. And finally, typically when you spot a great blue heron in western Washington, you see one flying or fishing alone. In Redmond a huge group of herons have picked a place to nest - in an unusual spot. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed. Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at [email protected], leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Evening Headlines

Mayor Wilson agrees to turn on surveillance cameras near stadiums, King County prosecutor wants to increase penalties for buying sex, and there's huge demand for Seattle's first social housing building. It’s our daily roundup of top stories from the KUOW newsroom, with host Paige Browning. And make sure to join us this Saturday for a live taping of Seattle Now where Patricia Murphy will interview King County Executive Girmay Zahilay at the Cascade PBS Ideas Festival. Get tickets here. Use promo code SEATTLENOW to access a 20% discount. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spectator 2026-05-28

Spectator 2026-06-04

Seattle Commits To Restoration And Preservation Of Central District Pan-African Crosswalks

The City of Seattle has initiated a restoration project to renew and preserve 11 Pan-African flag crosswalks in the Central District. These landmarks have long served as iconic symbols of Black history, culture, and community presence.

Podcast: Seattle Medium’s Readers’ Choice Awards See Increased Community Engagement

The Seattle Medium's inaugural Best of the Best Northwest Readers' Choice Awards has generated significant community engagement, with nominees and residents actively promoting the campaign. This initiative, established to celebrate impactful businesses, organizations, and leaders, has fostered widespread participation and facilitated the discovery of new regional entities.

Podcast: Washington State Microenterprise Association Strengthens Entrepreneur Network

The Washington State Microenterprise Association (WSMA) addresses critical barriers faced by microenterprises, sole proprietors, and early-stage entrepreneurs in accessing capital and vital resources. The organization strengthens the statewide network supporting small businesses, providing essential training, financing, and business development services. Its flagship initiative, Evergreen BizLink, serves as a free online resource navigator, connecting entrepreneurs with trusted support systems.

Ballard FC, Salmon Bay FC host Portland in Music Night doubleheader

Ballard FC and Salmon Bay FC will host a Seattle-versus-Portland doubleheader at Interbay Stadium (3027 17th Ave W) on Saturday, June 6, with both clubs facing new and returning rivals ... Read more

Mike’s Chili Parlor Music Festival returns for its second year

Mike’s Chili Parlor (1447 NW Ballard Way) will host its second annual Mike’s Chili Parlor Music Festival this summer, bringing together local musicians and bands with ties to Ballard. The ... Read more

Northbound I-5 closure this weekend expected to affect travel through Seattle

Ballard-area residents traveling through Seattle this weekend should plan for significant traffic impacts as northbound Interstate 5 will fully close between Interstate 90 and Northeast 45th Street from late Friday, ... Read more

Neonatal Testing: A Game-Changer For Black Moms And Babies

Black infants are twice as likely as white infants to be born prematurely and face significantly higher mortality rates before their first birthday. Despite this, many Black parents decline prenatal tests capable of identifying serious health issues months before birth. This reluctance is attributed to medical mistrust, uneven access to care, and widespread misconceptions regarding the purpose of prenatal screening.

At Hampton, Black Clergy Weigh Faith, AI, and Change

The 2026 Hampton University Ministers Conference will convene thousands of pastors, theologians, and lay persons to confront the evolving landscape of the Black church. The agenda prioritizes critical discussions on artificial intelligence, the integration of younger clergy, the expanding influence of women in ministry, and the strategic imperative of maintaining relevance within a rapidly changing cultural context.