We Speak Events
THE HOWARD UNIVERSITY CANCER CENTER BRUNCH TOPS $100,000 FUNDRAISING GOAL

Howard University Cancer Center’s annual Rosemary Williams Breast Cancer Brunch exceeded its $100,000 fundraising goal, furthering the center’s mission to eliminate breast cancer disparities for minority women.
The Oct. 15 brunch honored the late Rosemary Williams who was a tireless advocate for equal access to quality health care for underserved women. To honor Williams’ legacy, proceeds raised through the brunch support the center’s critical breast cancer disparity programs which include screening and other patient-centered services.
Howard University, Howard University Hospital, and the Cancer Center have for decades spearheaded programs to help meet the needs of women lacking access to care in the metro region. Major event sponsors included: The Dana Foundation, Amgen, Inc., the Charmettes, Inc., and the Georgiana Thomas Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star.
More than 300 guests attended the Rosemary Williams Breast Cancer Brunch. Andrea Roane, WUSA 9 News Now Anchor and medical reporter served as honorary chair and MC for the event. Fundraising activities were boosted this year through the work of a committed team of women who served as honorary co-chairs and as co-chairs for the event (pictured).
“We were very excited that this group of dynamic and dedicated women embraced the mission of the Cancer Center and used their time and talents to help us not just achieve, but exceed our fundraising goal,” said Dr. Carla Williams, interim director of the Howard University Cancer Center.
At the brunch, HUH radiologist Dr. Estelle Cooke-Sampson, who served as one of the event co-chairs, donated a 10-day stay at a vacation home in Hawaii for the silent auction. HUH Chief Nursing Officer Dr. Shirley Evers-Manly spearheaded the silent auction and generously donated several original art pieces, jewelry and other items. Ricardo Mavin, son of Howard University Hospital Director of Nursing Sandra Mavin, created an original art piece for the event. The final total of brunch proeeds is still being calculated.
Brunch proceeds support vital services to women in the region, including the Rosemary Williams Mammoday Breast Cancer Screening Program. The program provides free and low cost breast cancer screening, diagnostic services, and patient navigation for uninsured women. For 14 years, Mammoday has been a consistent community resource for women who face a variety of barriers to accessing health care. To sign up or learn more about screening, call (202) 865-4655.
Potential sponsors interested in supporting next year’s brunch can call or email Cherie Spencer (202) 865-5399 or [email protected]
Proceeds also support the Cancer Center’s Transdisciplinary Breast Clinic which provides a patient-centered approach to breast cancer care. Women receive same day, coordinated care from an elite team of cancer specialists. This approach reduces patient burdens and enhances the overall quality of care. In addition, proceeds support the Equal Access to Genetic Testing Fund which assists patients for whom genetic testing is indicated and recommended but not covered by insurance, and/or for patients who are uninsured.
We Speak Brands
Gotham Buds Hosts Community-Centered 4/20 Celebration in the Heart of Harlem


New York, NY– April 16, 2025 – Gotham Buds, Harlem’s homegrown dispensary, is throwing its biggest event of the year to celebrate 4/20 with the community that built it. Hosted by NYC’s own Mr. Commodore and Rayyy Rayyy, the celebration will feature hourly giveaways, classic games, a live DJ, a curated photo booth experience, food vendors, and a major prize giveaway for one lucky winner at exactly 4:20 PM. Leading cannabis brands like TICAL, ROVE, To The Moon, and more will also be on-site, connecting with customers and sharing exclusive offering.
WHEN: Sunday, April 20, 2025
TIME: 12:00 PM- 6:00 PM
WHERE: GOTHAM BUDS- 248 W 125TH ST, NEW YORK, NY, 10027
“Celebrating 4/20 in Harlem with the people we see and serve every day is an honor. This holiday is rooted in freedom, resilience, and the ongoing fight for equity — and for us, it’s also about joy. Creating safe, relaxed spaces where we can come together, laugh, and share in the moment is everything.”
— Malika Bellamy, Co-Owner, VP of Communications & Marketing, Gotham Buds
This event is a love letter to Harlem — a vibrant, chill, and community-rooted day designed to honor those who continue to support Gotham Buds. Expect positive vibes, live IG coverage, and a real celebration of culture, cannabis, and connection.
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ABOUT GOTHAM BUDS
Gotham Buds is the premier cannabis brand built by New Yorkers for New Yorkers. Located in the heart of Harlem, they offer one of the largest curated selections of homegrown cannabis and smoking accessories, luxurious apparel, and audio entertainment in NYC. Gotham Buds is committed to redefining the wellness landscape and making the transformative power of cannabis accessible. Learn more at www.gothambudsny.com.
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