Tickets Available here:

https://www.ticketmaster.com/andre-3000-new-blue-sun-live-seattle-washington-10-09-2024/event/0F0060D27500118C

Lets find out by bringing them to a day of tennis, learning, and community fun with the Arthur Ashe Champions Day on Sunday, September 8th at Lower Woodlawn Park.

This event is dedicated to young people between the ages of 6 and 15, offering them a free opportunity to engage with tennis, learn the basics, and celebrate the legacy of Arthur Ashe, one of the most inspirational figures in the sport’s history.

Named after Arthur Ashe, the first Black man to win major tennis titles, including the U.S. Open and Wimbledon, this event is about more than just sports. Ashe was not only a trailblazing athlete but also a dedicated advocate for social justice and youth empowerment. Through his efforts both on and off the court, Ashe became a symbol of perseverance, leadership, and integrity. His legacy continues to inspire generations, making this event a meaningful way to introduce children to tennis while teaching them about Ashe’s contributions to both the sport and society.

What to Expect

The Arthur Ashe Champions Day will feature a variety of activities tailored to kids at different skill levels. Whether your child is picking up a racket for the first time or already has some experience, there will be coaching sessions, interactive drills, and mini-tournaments designed to enhance their skills in a fun and supportive environment. Local tennis coaches and instructors will be on hand to provide guidance and encouragement throughout the day.

In addition to tennis instruction, the event will also emphasize the values Ashe embodied—sportsmanship, education, and activism. There will be opportunities for children to learn about Ashe’s life and the importance of giving back to their communities.

Why You Should Attend

This event is a perfect way for families to enjoy a Sunday outdoors, fostering a love of tennis and physical activity in young children. Tennis is a lifelong sport that builds coordination, discipline, and mental toughness. And with free entry, it’s an accessible way for Seattle’s youth to discover or deepen their passion for the game.

Whether you’re looking for a fun family day out, hoping to introduce your child to a new sport, or wanting to honor the legacy of an extraordinary athlete and humanitarian, Arthur Ashe Champions Day at Lower Woodlawn Park promises to be a rewarding experience for everyone involved.

GET YOUR FREE TICKETS HERE!

A New Sonic Direction

Ravenite Social Club showcases Juicy J’s willingness to explore new musical territories. Known for his energetic and often playful persona, Juicy J delves into more serious and socially conscious themes on this album. The production, handled entirely by Juicy J himself, incorporates expansive horns and keys, creating a rich soundscape that highlights his versatility as an artist.

Collaborations and Features

The album’s standout collaborations include Robert Glasper, whose jazz expertise adds a sophisticated layer to the tracks. Juicy J has expressed admiration for Glasper’s genius, describing their studio sessions as a vibrant and creative experience. Additionally, the album features Cordae on the track “Suicide Doors,” adding a fresh rap perspective to the project. Emi Secrest also contributes her vocal talents, further enriching the album’s jazz influence.

Themes and Tributes

Juicy J pays homage to his roots with the track “To You,” dedicated to Three 6 Mafia and the late Gangsta Boo. This song, along with its accompanying music video, reflects Juicy J’s deep respect and nostalgia for the group that helped launch his career. The album’s title, Ravenite Social Club, references the infamous headquarters of the Gambino Crime Family, adding an intriguing historical layer to the project.

Reception and Impact

The reception to Ravenite Social Club has been largely positive, with listeners appreciating Juicy J’s bold artistic shift. While some fans were initially skeptical about the jazz-rap fusion, many have praised the album’s cohesive sound and thoughtful production. Critics have noted that this project positions Juicy J alongside artists like Lupe Fiasco and Common, who are known for their lyrical depth and innovative sounds. In conclusion, Ravenite Social Club represents a significant evolution in Juicy J’s career, demonstrating his ability to adapt and innovate within the music industry. This jazz-inspired album not only expands his musical repertoire but also solidifies his status as a versatile and influential artist.

Photos by Terrell Elmore

The evening commenced with mingling and hors d’oeuvres, setting the stage for insightful discussions led by esteemed speakers. Tremayne Edwards, director of operations at Byrd Barr Place, shed light on the organization’s assistance programs, including LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) and Cooling Assistance Program (CAP), aimed at providing relief and support to eligible individuals facing housing and energy-related challenges.

Amidst ACLT’s 60th anniversary celebrations, Edwards outlined upcoming events, including a block party and panel discussions focused on empowering Black communities. ACLT CEO K. Wyking Garrett underscored the ongoing struggle against systemic racism and highlighted ACLT’s initiatives, including a proposed $1 billion anti-displacement fund to address historical injustices. I really enjoy when Wyking reminds us that they dared to dream! I was there when we painted the block and the vision was laid out. I was so excited that people WE know are building legacy projects!

Keynote speaker Lewis Rudd shared his journey navigating discriminatory lending practices while expanding Ezell’s Famous Chicken. Rudd’s poignant account underscored the barriers faced by Black-owned businesses and the importance of advocacy and resilience in overcoming systemic obstacles.

The event also featured a panel of distinguished speakers, including Damon Brown of Communion Restaurant and Bar, Rodney Hines of Metier Brewing Company, Veronica Very of WOW Gallery, and Monika Mathews of Queencare. Moderated by Jay Martin Jr., the panel delved into the significance of Black businesses and strategies to dismantle barriers hindering Black entrepreneurs’ success.

When I talked with Councilmember Joy Hollingsworth she briefly emphasized the imperative of investing in Black businesses and communities, advocating for policies that prioritize economic empowerment and homeownership within the Black community. She is a proud member of the Black Legacy Homeowners Network so I enjoying knowing that its not just talk, she means it. In other venues we have talked and agreed that there is a need for the redefinition of progressiveness to center on Black concerns.

The Building Black Wall Street Mixer + Chat exemplified the spirit of resilience, unity, and empowerment within Seattle’s Black community. Through dialogue, advocacy, and collective action, events like these pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive future, where Black businesses and communities thrive. I took the time to share my perspective that to create a true “Black Wallstreet” we need to create office space, warehouse space for Non-Retail businesses. When our building was devasted by fire in 2022, I moved the Seaspot Media Group offices downtown. Although we wanted to stay closer to the community that we had been in for nearly 20 years, there weren’t many options for office space in the Central Area.

As the Summer of Soul series unfolds, it serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, embodying the resilience and determination of the Africatown community in the pursuit of social and economic justice. I will see you in the streets this summer.

Kun

At the heart of Bumbershoot’s 2024 programming for our scene are two greats of the hip-hop world: Cypress Hill and Freddie Gibbs. Known for their contributions to the genre, both acts are set to deliver dope performances that will have the crowd on their feet. Especially when that “Insane In the Membrane” drops!

Joining them on stage are local favorites Grynch and Parisalexa, representing the vibrant and diverse music scene of the Pacific Northwest. With their unique blend of talent and charisma, these artists are sure to leave a lasting impression on audiences. Grynch is known for his lyrical bars and delivery and often underestimated at 1st glance.

But the music is just the beginning. Bumbershoot’s Visual Arts program is set to dazzle attendees with the debut of the Animation District, showcasing cutting-edge animation techniques and visual storytelling. Meanwhile, foodies can indulge in a culinary extravaganza featuring the best of the Northwest’s cuisine, with offerings from over 50 local restaurants, wineries, and breweries.

With its rich history and commitment to artistic innovation, Bumbershoot stands as a testament to the enduring power of creativity and community.

Tickets for Bumbershoot 2024 are on sale now, with both single-day and two-day passes available for purchase. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable celebration of art, music, and culture. Join us at Seattle Center from August 31st to September 1st for a weekend you won’t soon forget.

Single Day Pass and Two Day Pass On Sale Now at www.bumbershoot.com.

Check out these photos from Art By Fredrick.