#ConvergeOnTheRoad - Taking the long way around is more than just miles. It's a pursuit of the narrative found in the margins. For Converge Media co-founder Erik Kalligraphy (@kalligraphy), his camera is a constant companion, turning every pit stop into a potential gallery. Recently, the Converge On The Road series hit the pavement for a two-and-a-half-hour journey east of Seattle to Quincy, Washington, to document a local youth group. For Erik, the assignment is only half the story; his lens is how he processes the world, bringing him peace and helping him remember where he's been. On the road to Quincy, Erik photographed the Ellensburg Rodeo sign, a landmark on the home turf of Washington State’s first Black Rodeo Queen Jessa Thomas. Jessa was the focus of Converge Media’s documentary “Facing the Reign,” adding a layer of significance to the photo. Erik’s eye for detail also captured a simple parking lot puddle in George, Washington, which became a study in reflection during a golden sunset. This work is vital to him because, as Seattle and the world change, he believes in preserving the Northwest legacy. Converge on the Road continues to bridge the gap between Seattle and the rest of the world, one thoughtful shutter click at a time. Photos curated by Erik Kalligraphy (@kalligraphy) #WWConverge #ConvergeOnTheRoad #Photography

#ConvergeOnTheRoad - The mics were on fire in Mt. Vernon, Washington when Curtis Delgardo II and Besa Gordon (@besagordon) linked up with DJ Defkawn and DJ Troll King on “The Re-Up” on KSVR 91.7 FM radio. Sure, Besa and Curtis light up the Black Media Matters Studio like nobody’s business, but as a pair, they’re also everywhere like air. On “The Re-Up,” Curtis talked about the imperative nature of Black Media, and Besa highlighted the critical role of representation, acknowledging that little Black girls are watching and seeing what’s possible. It’s safe to say that the good vibes and connections in Mt. Vernon were well worth the drive up I5. Big shout out to co-hosts DJ Defkawn and DJ Troll King for welcoming Besa, Curtis, The Big O (@Omarisal), and Converge co-founder Erik Kalligraphy (@kalligraphy), alongside Thaartist Kali (@Tha_Artist_Kali) and DJ Peg (@DJPeg206) for sharing the air time. Continue to catch us on the road. Where will the Converge team show up next? Shout out to the Skagit Valley Food Co-op (@SkagitFoodCoop) for the good eats. Photos curated by Erik Kalligraphy (@kalligraphy)

#WomensHistoryMonth - Noelle Quinn's journey from standout player to head coach of the @seattlestorm is an inspiring tale of leadership and dedication. A WNBA champion as both a player (2018) and assistant coach (2020), Quinn took the helm as head coach in 2021, bringing her transformative vision to the team. "One of the principles that I try to live by is to be a transformative leader," Quinn states. "It's not performative... It's about making sure I impact the individuals that I'm leading." This philosophy goes beyond winning games, focusing on leaving a lasting legacy and impacting those around her. Quinn emphasizes building relationships and fostering growth. "At the end of the day, it's really about the relationships that you build," she explains. "And like I said prior, the lasting impact." She also values communication and understanding individual strengths. "You have to really take the time to see how to pull strengths from individuals and how to communicate with individuals," she notes. Her experience as a player gives her unique insight into team dynamics and player development. She cites Jordan Horston's growth as an example, highlighting the importance of communication and mutual respect. "The reciprocity is not just me to her, it's her to me, expressing, you know, that she wanted to be great," she shares. Quinn believes in leaning into faith and surrounding herself with supportive people during tough times. "Adversity reveals character," she says. "Basketball is what I do. I coach basketball, but is not who I am." For young women aspiring to leadership roles, Quinn advises finding a mentor and dreaming big. "The fact that young girls can see that it's possible," she says, is crucial. She also encourages authenticity and enjoying the journey. "My charge would be to be 100% authentically yourself in leadership and enjoy it," she asserts. "Don't take it too serious and have fun." Noelle Quinn's story is a testament to her commitment to making a positive impact. #Leadership #WNBA #SeattleStorm #NoelleQuinn #WomenInSports

In a ceremony decades in the making, Jimi Hendrix was posthumously awarded Washington’s highest civilian honor — the Medal of Merit. This week on Back2Besa, go inside the emotional tribute at the Capitol, where his family and state leaders reflected on his legacy, artistry, and impact on the world. Tune in deets below 👇 🎸 Watch Saturday at 10:30PM on FOX 13 Seattle 📺 Replay Sunday at 10AM on FOX 13+ 📱 Stream nationwide for free on the FOX Local app

Did someone say Yearbook Photos? On Sunday, Converge Media host Deaunte Damper (@DamperDeaunte), T Dub (@tdubcustoms), and Besa Gordon (@besagordon), plus Converge Media's Lead Converge Music, Culture, & Lifestyle Erik Kalligraphy (@kalligraphy) came down to the #BlackMediaMatters Studio to celebrate the kick off of The Day With Trae season 3 hosted by the Community Queen of Converge herself Trae Holiday (@HolidayTraeanna). During this moment filled with Black Joy, the team took some family photos with Susan Fried. In case you missed it, not only is The Day With Trae officially back for season 3 which kicked off today and season 3 of We Live in Color hosted by Deaunte Damper, and season 2 of Art of the Matter hosted by T Dub are on the way next. The Day With Trae Season 3 will continue to focus on #BlackBrilliance from around the Puget Sound, bringing various guests and topics to her show each weekday as viewers tune in for exciting content curated around themes like health & wellness, fashion, travel, business and more. We Live in Color season 3 will continue to be a platform that introduces the community to our strong Black leaders in the LGBTQ+ community and have conversations about “the diaspora of the Black community.” Art of the Matter (@AOTM_Converge) season 2 will continue to bring a more personal perspective to the world of art. Art Of The Matter hopes to continue being a platform for artists to express what thoughts, feelings, and emotions are present in their works and provide viewers with a unique backstory on some of the art world's greatest creations. @Back2Besa which is currently on season 2 will continue to uplift Black voices, stories and Black joy across the Pacific Northwest, while also shinning a light on our Black-owned businesses. We are wishing the entire team an amazing 2025, and we are excited for you all to be with us on this journey.

🙏🏾 – at Seattle, WA

To end their six-game homestand, the @SeattleKraken prevailed victorious over their aquatic foe, the @SanJoseSharks! @CirclingSports has the recap: whereweconverge.com/post/kra… #SeaKraken #SeattleKraken #SJSharks #SJSvsSEA #NHL #TheNextWave #FearTheDeep #KrakenHockey #SanJoseSharks