Bani Gbadyu made a name for himself battling on the football field. Now, the former Quince Orchard and Penn State student/athlete has a different battle. “I never thought I would hear the words Advanced Pancreatic Cancer in my life, much less at such a young age. Hearing and learning that I have cancer and being in the hospital for over 2 weeks has been the absolute hardest experience of my life.” Gbadyu wrote in a social media post yesterday.
According to the Penn State athletics website, the 2006 Quince Orchard graduate escaped the revolution and poverty in Liberia by taking a boat with his father and brother across the Atlantic to the United States when he was 10. He later attended Gaithersburg Middle School before going to high school at Quince Orchard, where he earned multiple football awards and a scholarship to Penn State. Following his time at Penn State, he had a stint with the Oakland Raiders during preseason.
A friend of Gbadyu’s started a GoFundMe two days ago that has already raised over $30K. Per Gbadyu’s social media post, “One thing that I have realized very quickly is how many amazing people I have in my life, from family, church and friends from every stage of life. Molly and I have been truly overwhelmed with the love and support that has already wrapped around our family. I feel blessed that there is an army invading heaven with prayers on my behalf. I know and can feel that God is loving me through this unimaginable time. I know everyone is supporting me, and most importantly my wife, family and kids believe in me. I hope that my journey can be a lesson for someone, at some point in time. We are going to lean on God and Fight On. #FightOnBani
Many are reaching out asking how they can help. Gift cards to help with family expenses would include Giant, Aldi, Walmart or Target. A dear friend has also started a GoFundMe account to help with large medical expenses coming our way.”
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From the Offices of Councilmembers Will Jawando, Gabe Albornoz and Kristin Mink:
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
