At the time he was attending St. Martin’s in Gaithersburg. His uncle was helping his mother pay for tuition at the private school prior to her passing. He officially took Helton in and raised him for the next few years until his incarceration and subsequent deportation. He finished that school year living at his best friend’s house, but didn’t know where he’d go next.
Many families offered to take Helton in, but everything would keep falling through at the last minute. It wasn’t until just before his freshman year at Good Counsel that he was taken in by the Abudayeh family. Vivian Abudayeh was battling cancer at the same time Helton’s mother was, but was able to survive. She informed her husband of the situation and Helton has been with the family ever since.
Helton knew he wanted to be a student at Good Counsel after attending a football game when he was in 6th grade. He remembers watching Stefon Diggs play and fell in love with the school spirit displayed at the game. “There was also this letterman jacket in the display case that looked so tuff” Rodriguez told me (“tuff” is local slang for cool, awesome, or simply nice). “Good Counsel was honestly the only school I thought about.”
Fast forward to 2018 and Helton is on his way to the University of Notre Dame. He says there are countless people that have motivated him- mentioning his mother, his uncle, the family he currently lives with, his teachers, his friends, and so many people he has met throughout his life as inspiration. He will major in Biology this fall and his plan is to eventually go to medical school to become a cardiologist.
This young man’s courage and perseverance is something I truly admire. We wish him the best of luck going forward and hope he checks in with us periodically as he takes the nest steps towards the dream. Helton, you’re awesome!
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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!!!
