#ICYMI - Last weekend on Back2Besa on we covered Seattle Kraken Pride Night where Deaunte Damper and the Lavender Rights Project were honored for their advocacy work in the LGBTQ community in Seattle. We also spotlighted artist Nikita Ares who designed the pride night themed jersey. Segment was produced by Belinda Garcia and Mathew Bermudez from Drip Media.

Make sure you tune and and catch Besa Gordon every Saturday night at 10:30pm on FOX 13 and Sunday at 10am on FOX13+

Nestled in the heart of downtown Burien, just south of Seattle, is a culinary gem that has captured the hearts and palates of locals and visitors alike. Classic Eats, owned by the passionate Chef Tony Hayes, has not only become a beloved dining spot for Burien residents but also a destination for food enthusiasts across the Seattle metro area. With its carefully curated comfort food menu, steeped in the flavors of Louisiana, Classic Eats offers a dining experience crafted with love and rooted in tradition.

Last week, Besa Gordon had the pleasure of revisiting Classic Eats after at least three years. During her visit, she sat down with owner Tony Hayes to delve into the restaurant's beginnings, the inspiration behind the menu, and, of course, to indulge in the delicious foods.

Tony's journey in the culinary world traces back to his roots in Louisiana, where a passion for cooking was instilled in him from an early age. Drawing from this rich culinary heritage, he has infused Classic Eats with a menu that offers something for everyone, from hearty classics to innovative twists on Southern favorites.

Beyond its role as a restaurant, Classic Eats serves as a hub for community gatherings and connections. It's a place where people from all walks of life, spanning from across the street to across King County, converge to enjoy not only delicious food but also the warm and welcoming atmosphere that Tony and his team have cultivated.

According to Besa, her recent visit to Classic Eats left her and her crew in awe. Tony's hospitality was unparalleled, as he graciously laid out a spread of dishes for them to sample, even going the extra mile to prepare to-go meals for their editors back at the studio.

Among the standout dishes sampled by Besa and her team were the tantalizing jambalaya grits, mouthwatering meatloaf sliders, refreshing salmon salad, and irresistible beignets. She highly recommends trying the beignets with the accompanying marshmallow dipping sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

Classic Eats isn't just a restaurant; it's a culinary destination where food, community, and hospitality intersect. With its roots firmly planted in Southern comfort and a commitment to creating memorable dining experiences, it's no wonder that Classic Eats continues to draw diners from near and far.

Whether you're a local looking for your new favorite spot or a visitor seeking a taste of Southern hospitality, Classic Eats invites you to pull up a chair, savor the flavors, and become a part of its vibrant culinary community.

This segment was first aired on Back2Besa on FOX 13 Seattle. See past episodes and segments at whereweconverge.com/back2besa and on the FOX Local app.

March 30th marked a poignant moment as N The Kutt Dance Studio in Des Moines, WA, closed its doors for the final time. The studio, along with its founder Koach "Giggz" Crosby (who is also the founder of Kutt’ N’ Up dance team), has been an integral part of the greater Puget Sound community for years, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless young dancers, including our own Besa Gordon.

N The Kutt Dance Studio, under the visionary leadership of Koach "Giggz" Crosby, has served as a beacon of creativity and empowerment for youth across the region. Through dance, Koach Giggz has not only taught choreography but instilled confidence, discipline, and resilience in his students. The studio's legacy extends far beyond its walls, reaching stages and audiences around the world, showcasing the talent and dedication of its dancers.

For years, Kutt’ N’ Up has provided young dancers with opportunities to showcase their skills and passion, from local performances to international competitions. Under Koach Giggz's guidance, dancers from Kutt’ N’ Up have graced stages across the globe, leaving a lasting impression wherever they go. The studio's impact transcends borders, uniting dancers from diverse backgrounds in a shared love for dance and community.

As we bid farewell to N The Kutt Dance Studio, we pay tribute to the visionary behind it all, Koach "Giggz" Crosby. His dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to his students have left an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come. Koach Giggz's impact extends far beyond the dance studio, touching the lives of all who have had the privilege of learning from him.

This segment was first aired on Back2Besa on FOX 13 Seattle. See past episodes and segments at whereweconverge.com/back2besa and on the FOX Local app.

Not too long ago, the Tacoma Art Museum buzzed with energy as the Griot Party Experience made its triumphant return. This time, the vibrant celebration of culture and creativity found its home within the walls of the museum, marking a shift from its previous spotlight at Langston Hughes in the Central District. The even was produced Logic Amen who orchestrated another unforgettable evening, infusing the atmosphere with pulsating vibes. The legendary Vitamin D took control of the turntables, setting the tone for an evening of storytelling and inspiration.

The event hosted by Mecca Amen, had a lineup of six remarkable individuals: The Messenger, Caution, Dani Marie, Miz Floes, Ibrahim Arsalan, and David Bennett. Their narratives, interwoven with humor, wisdom, and raw emotion, illuminated the transformative power of art. Comedian Boe Blast and hip-hop artist Asim, also known as E Real, added their voices to the chorus, sharing personal experiences that resonated deeply with the audience. SIOA and I am Chamel contributed their own stories, highlighting the profound impact of artistic expression on healing.

Guiding us through this immersive experience was the charismatic Mecca Amen, whose presence as host elevated the evening to new heights. As the Griot Party unfolded, it became clear that we were not merely spectators but active participants in a collective journey of healing and empowerment.

Stay tuned for updates on future events by following them at TheGriotParty.com.

See photos from the event below taken by Marvin Patterson on behalf of Converge Media.

This segment was first aired on Back2Besa on FOX 13 Seattle. See past episodes and segments at whereweconverge.com/back2besa and on the FOX Local app.