::THE SLICE REPORT WITH MONA AUSTIN

OFFICIAL WHITE HOUSE PORTRAIT OF THE 44TH PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES BARACK OBAMA AND FIRST LADY MICHELE OBAMA By Mona Austin There have been many artistic depictions of the Obamas, the first African Americans to serve in the White House, but none as significant as the portraits that  permanently reside there.        On September 7, 2022  the couple returned to the White House  to unveil their official  portraits, a tradition that was established by First Lady Jackie Kennedy, but an honor that goes back to George Washington.  “Welcome home,' said Pres. Joe Biden who served as the vice president during the Obama administration. Current and former staffers attended the affair which served as a pat on the back for the collective impact of their service. Mr. Obama fused humor into his remarks, while Mrs. Obama spoke of the magnitude of being the first Black FLOTUS. The couple reminisced about their time White House and some of the important ...

buzzz worthy. . . “So whatever or whoever inspired you to join public service; whether you’re a young person who just signed up because you want to make a difference, or a career employee who has dedicated your life to that pursuit – I want you to know that it has been my privilege to call you my colleagues.  This precious experiment in self-government only works when we have selfless citizens like you.” -- President Barack Obama Our Nation’s civil servants are making Government smarter, faster, and more responsive to the needs of the American people. They’re partnering with leaders and advocates from State and local levels to help ensure the voices of the American people are heard. They’re finding ways to process health benefits applications for disadvantaged tribal populations more efficiently and effectively, and making important strides in ending veterans’ homelessness. They’ve worked to swiftly transport American aid workers with Ebola to the United States for life-...