Seattle Medium Rhythm & News Podcast

Seattle basketball icons Shawn Kemp and Gary Payton are set to reunite at the Kent YMCA for the Community in the Unity Back to School Fair on August 17. Scheduled from 1 to 6 p.m., the event invites youth 18 and under to participate in a day of sports, music, and resources. A highlight of the fair is the "Battle on the Blacktop," a 3-on-3 basketball competition where Kemp and Payton will lend their expertise as celebrity coaches. Paula Sardinas of FMS Global Strategies has more details on the event. 

Interview by Chris B. Bennett

The Odessa Brown Children's Clinic is set to celebrate the grand opening of its new Central District location on August 9, featuring live music, games, arts and crafts, giveaways, community resources, and a vaccine clinic. This event signifies a return to the neighborhood where the clinic first established its roots over 50 years ago. Dr. Shaquita Bell, Senior Medical Director at OBCC, and Christian Love, a member of the OBCC Governance Council, will provide insights into the event and the significance of the new location.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

When engaging in transactions with unfamiliar sellers, it is imperative to comprehend the risks and safeguards associated with various payment methods. Checks, credit cards, wire transfers, and person-to-person apps each present distinct vulnerabilities and protections. Quincy Crawford, Branch Manager at Chase Bank in Seattle, highlights prevalent payment scams such as counterfeit cashier's checks, overpayment schemes, and wire transfer solicitations. Crawford advises utilizing secure payment methods like credit cards and exercising caution with wire transfers and person-to-person apps to safeguard financial assets.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett

Kyla Marks is poised to achieve her goal of becoming a dentist by age 25, graduating without debt thanks to securing over $700,000 in scholarships for her undergraduate and dental education. Her journey underscores the significance of determination and community support in overcoming financial barriers to higher education. The Seattle Medium's Summer Intern Sydney Goitia-Doran has the story.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The United Negro College Fund's Portfolio Project is a pivotal initiative aimed at empowering African American high school students from low-income and underrepresented backgrounds. By providing essential tools, resources, and mentorship, the program facilitates these students' successful navigation of the college application process, specifically targeting 11th and 12th graders in their pursuit of higher education. UNCF Portfolio Project Coordinator for Seattle and Portland, Dallas Richardson, has the insight.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

The Seattle Medium's Rhythm & News Podcast explores strategies for cost-effective summer travel, featuring insights from Quincy Crawford of Chase Bank on optimizing credit card rewards and considering innovative vacation options. 

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Cierra Sisters will host a community event, Wellness on the Block, at the Skyway Resource Center in Seattle on July 19th. The event aims to promote community wellness through a block walk, food, games, prizes, vendors, and various activities.

Shayla Akande, the new CEO of Cierra Sisters, alongside Board President De De Scott, share more information about the event and reflect on the organization's commitment to uplifting and supporting the local community.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

Byrd Barr Place is set to host its second annual Block Party, a community-focused event celebrating the cultural heritage of Seattle's Central District. Scheduled from noon to 5 p.m. on 18th Avenue, the event will include live music, diverse food offerings, local vendor shopping, and entertainment such as bouncy houses. Performances by DJ Topspin and headliner Royce the Choice will highlight the festivities.

Rosie Grant from Byrd Barr Place provides further insights into the celebration and its anticipated impact on the community.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

King County's property tax relief program for seniors and disabled residents has expanded, increasing income eligibility to broaden access. Despite this progress, the system remains challenging to navigate, particularly for seniors unfamiliar with online applications. The Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle is actively assisting elders in accessing these benefits, ensuring they can age in place with dignity and stability.

Linda Taylor, Housing Director for the Urban League, elaborates on the program's workings and the organization's efforts to support seniors in securing these essential benefits.

Interview by Chris B. Bennett.