Dear Ward 8 Residents,

As we enter into this new month, I want to take a moment to remind everyone of the importance of mental health, especially as we continue to navigate through challenging times.

May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, a crucial opportunity to raise awareness and advocate for mental health support and resources. Now more than ever, it's essential that we prioritize our mental well-being and support those around us who may be struggling.

In Ward 8, we understand the significance of mental health and its impact on individuals, families, and the community. We must create a culture where mental health is openly discussed, stigma is reduced, and support is readily available.

I encourage each of you to take some time this month to reflect on your own mental health and well-being. Whether it's practicing self-care, reaching out to a friend or loved one, or seeking professional support if needed, remember that you are not alone. 

Remember, your mental health matters, and there is strength in seeking help when needed. I am wishing you all a month filled with compassion, resilience, and positive mental well-being.

Regards, 

Trayon White, Sr.
Councilmember, Ward 8 
 

ONSE office loses 11% of its operating budget.
This week, the Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety has an oversight hearing for the Criminal Code Reform Commission, the Office of the Attorney General, and the Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (ONSE) on May 1st.

ONSE, an office responsible for building a community-oriented model for violence prevention and public safety rooted in public health lost a shocking 11 percent in the operating budget and 5 percent in full-time employee funding. The Office of the Attorney General has new tools for its mission to hold people responsible for their actions.

Following the passing of SECURE DC, the attorney general's office has more at its disposal to help combat the crime concerns in the District. With this in mind, the office has had an increase of 2 percent in funding. The Criminal Code Reform Commission, an agency created to recommend new criminal provisions, was a temporary agency that ran its course. Councilmember White is concerned about the cuts towards preventative measures such as the ONSE.
 
Furthermore, there are were two other oversight hearings Councilmember White had interest in this week. One was the Committee on Executive Administration and Labor, which was held on May 1^st, with 5 agencies testifying. Councilmember White discussed the Department of Employment Services (DOES) and its funding. The second hearing was the Committee of the Whole Oversight hearing which was held on May 3^rd.
 
Councilmember White is looking to introduce legislation soon surroundingstreet renaming and public school's internal space.

The NCBW meets with Councilmember White's staff for its 2024 advocacy day.

Councilmember White's Chief of Staff and Legislative Director met with the National Coalition of 100 Black Women Inc. Metropolitan Washington, DC Chapter (NCBW) for its 2024 Advocacy Day. 

The DC Chapter primarily focuses on issues impacting Black women and girls. NCBW president and its members discussed budget issues, helping mothers stay healthy, and ensuring women of color learn about their emotions and relationships. 

The organization was launched in 1981 with representatives from 14 states and the District of Columbia. Its mission is to advocate on behalf of women of color through national and local actions and strategic alliances that promote the NCBW agenda, leadership development, and gender equity in the areas of health, education, and economic empowerment. 

DC Public Library 

Ward 8 & Virtual Events 

May 3-May 7, 2024 

DC Jail Video Visitation 

Friday, May 03: 2:00pm - 5:00pm 

 Anacostia Neighborhood Library - Meeting Room 1 (2-6 Person Capacity) 

AGE GROUP:   ADULTS 

EVENT TYPE:  KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD 

DCPL partners with DC Department of Correction to bring a Video Visitation program. 

Game Hour 

Friday, May 03: 3:30pm - 5:30pm 

 Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library 

AGE GROUP:   5 - 12 YEARS OLD 

EVENT TYPE:  GAMING 

Fun for the whole family! Join us for blocks, Legos, board games and Virtual Reality gaming. Ages 3 and up. 
 

Kemetic Yoga with Nzinga - Body N Mind Connectivity 

Saturday, May 04: 2:00pm - 3:00pm 

 Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library 

AGE GROUP:   ADULTS 

EVENT TYPE:  KNOW YOUR POWER, HEALTH 

Kemetic Yoga with Nzinga at Bellevue Library in large meeting room on the Saturdays of May 4th, June 1st, and June 15th. Come out to learn how to become one with the universe by a way of movement. 
 

Build with Legos! 

Saturday, May 04: 2:00pm - 4:00pm 

 Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library 

AGE GROUP:   BIRTH - 5  5 - 12 YEARS OLD 

EVENT TYPE:  STEM (SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING & MATH), GAMING 

Come to Bellevue and show off your Lego and Duplo building skills! 
 

Comic Book Day 

Saturday, May 04: 4:00pm - 4:30pm 

 Parklands-Turner Neighborhood Library 

AGE GROUP:   5 - 12 YEARS OLD  13 - 19 YEARS OLD (TEENS) 

EVENT TYPE:  EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM, ARTS & CRAFTS 

Design your own comic books while browsing our extensive collection! 

Monday-Peer Outreach Specialist 

Monday, May 06: 9:45am - 5:30pm 

 Anacostia Neighborhood Library - Study Room 4 (2 Person Max Capacity) 

AGE GROUP:   ADULTS 

EVENT TYPE:  KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD 

Meet with a Peer Outreach Specialist 
 

Preschool Story Time 

Monday, May 06: 10:30am - 11:00am 

 Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library 

AGE GROUP:   BIRTH - 5 

EVENT TYPE:  STORY TIME, EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM 

Share the joy of reading with your children ages 3-5 years! In these 30-40 minute programs, preschoolers and their grown-ups will explore stories and activities. 
 

Preschool Storytime 

Monday, May 06: 10:30am - 11:00am 

 Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library 

AGE GROUP:   BIRTH - 5 

EVENT TYPE:  STORY TIME, EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM 

Share the joy of reading with your children ages 3-5 years! In these 30-40 minute programs, preschoolers and their grown-ups will explore stories and activities. 

Celebrating Bike Month - Safe Routes 

Monday, May 06: 2:00pm - 5:00pm 

 Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library 

AGE GROUP:   5 - 12 YEARS OLD 

EVENT TYPE:  EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM 

Engaging patrons through safe passage activities to commemorate Bike Month 
 

Sit and Stitch 

Monday, May 06: 2:00pm - 3:00pm 

 Anacostia Neighborhood Library - Meeting Room 2 (8-16 Person Capacity) 

AGE GROUP:   SENIORS  ADULTS 

EVENT TYPE:  ARTS & CRAFTS 

Unleash your inner crafting pro at the library! 
 

Activist Movie/Documentary Night - Watch N Learn 

Monday, May 06: 3:00pm - 4:50pm 

 Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library 

AGE GROUP:   SENIORS  ADULTS 

EVENT TYPE:  KNOW YOUR POWER 

Join us as we watch and learn about the different Activist whom came before us. The point of this program is to learn about the different methods he/she used to assure the validity of their message. 

Peer Outreach Specialist 

Tuesday, May 07: 9:45am - 5:30pm 

 Anacostia Neighborhood Library - Study Room 4 (2 Person Max Capacity) 

AGE GROUP:   ADULTS 

EVENT TYPE:  KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD 

Meet with a Peer Outreach Specialist 

Family Story Time 

Tuesday, May 07: 10:30am - 11:00am 

 Anacostia Neighborhood Library 

AGE GROUP:   BIRTH - 5 

EVENT TYPE:  STORY TIME, FAMILY PROGRAM 

These 30-40 minute story times are designed to be enjoyed by all ages. 
 

Teen Art Workshop - with Project Create 

Tuesday, May 07: 4:00pm - 5:00pm 

 Anacostia Neighborhood Library 

AGE GROUP:   13 - 19 YEARS OLD (TEENS) 

EVENT TYPE:  KNOW YOUR POWER, ARTS & CRAFTS 

Are you looking for a space to get your creative juices flowing? 

Pajama Story Time 

Tuesday, May 07: 5:30pm - 6:00pm 

 Bellevue (William O. Lockridge) Neighborhood Library 

AGE GROUP:   BIRTH - 5 

EVENT TYPE:  STORY TIME, FAMILY PROGRAM, EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM 

These 30-40 minute evening programs are designed to delight children of all ages and their grown-ups. Pajamas are encouraged but not required! 

May 1, 2024

Councilmember White extended a heartfelt appreciation to the Nuns at Missions of Charities for their exceptional dedication and service to the most vulnerable members of our community. Their tireless efforts and compassionate care exemplify the very best of humanity.

He also extended a sincere thank you to Andrew Cho for his unwavering support and commitment.

Councilmember White's constituent services specialist, Louise Thorne, joined seniors at Knox Hill Senior Residences for assistance and conversation.

The seniors said they know they are in great hands with their Councilmember and his staff. Additionally, Ms. Willie May Cobb said she will celebrate her 80th birthday on May 18th, 2024. Councilmember White sends Ms. Cobb happy early birthday wishes.

Mayor Muriel Bowser celebrated the completion of Phase II with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The building will include the new headquarters of the D.C. Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).

“This intersection is often people’s first touchpoint when they come east of the river, a true gateway into Ward 8,” said Bowser, 51. “We wanted it to be an entryway that symbolizes the strength, resilience, creativity, and flavor of Anacostia, while bringing jobs, opportunity, and investment to the neighborhood. While we may be cutting the ribbon on Phase II of the MLK Gateway today, the years-long path that led us here has been dotted with victories along the corridor, driven by a combination of District investment and support from business and community partners.”

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