39th Annual Fountain Family Reunion District Presidents Antonio O. Barkley Atlanta
June 21-23, 2013 Atlanta, Georgia
Johnny C. Fountain, Sr. North Florida/South Georgia Erica Sanford South Florida Mary L. Brown New Jersey Norma J. Thompson President Emeritus Atlanta
Atlanta District Officers ANTONIO O. BARKLEY President
Norma J. Thompson
Merriam Atwater
President Emeritus
Vice President
Gloria Fountain
Trina Gibbs Rucker
Secretary
Assistant Secretary
Paul Quentin Fortson
Brenda Fountain
Treasurer
Assistant Treasurer
National Officers FELISHA ROBERTS President
Tony B. Thompson
Erica Sanford
Vice President
Secretary
Kenyetta Fountain
Elmira Fountain
Corresponding Secretary
Treasurer
Julia B. Sanford
Norma J. Thompson
Benevolent Fund Chair
Chaplain
From the Desk of the President . . June 23, 2013 Dear Family, Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. I want to personally welcome you to the beautiful city of Atlanta, Georgia. More importantly, I welcome you to the 39TH Annual Fountain Family Reunion. This family reunion affords us yet another opportunity as a family to get together, to grow together, to love together, to share together, to worship together, to look back together, and to look forward together. As always, continue to pray for strength and unity. It is our goal to never let the Fountain Chain gather dust. Links will become weak and break. We will repair those that are broken and replace those that are gone and as the Fountain Family we will press on. As our family song says, We Trust God in All That We Do! Yours in Christ,
Antonio “Tony� Barkley North Georgia/Atlanta District President
The Beginning..
J
FOUNTAIN FAMILY HISTORY
ames Fountain and Mattie B. Fountain Myers were the parents of two boys and two girls: Claude, Henry, Della and Tommie Lee. Later, in 1927, James Fountain was united in Holy Matrimony to Gussie Williams Fountain. The Lord blessed this couple with five children two boys and three girls: Olivia, Maxine, Josephine, James and Julia Bell. James Fountain was blessed with a total of nine children, four boys and five girls. After reaching adulthood, the children went their separate ways. There was a separation of the family members for 24 years, and little communication. The family was reunited in 1971, when Julia Bell met Walter West (Tommie Lee’s son) in Fitzgerald, Georgia while on vacation. Walter lived in the city. After a brief conversation, he advised Julia that Tommy Lee lived in Sparks, Georgia. The vacation was cut short and Julia went to visit Tommie Lee in Sparks. Two weeks later, John (Tommie Lee’s son) brought his parents to Pompano Beach, FL to meet other family members. Information was requested about other family members in preparation to reunite the family. In 1972, the Florida members went to Atlanta, Georgia to visit Henry Fountain. The communication continued. In 1973, they journeyed to Sparks, Georgia to meet Della Mae at Tommie Lee’s home. It was suggested that the family start an annual Family Reunion. Thus, in 1974 the first official reunion was born in Jacksonsville, Florida. It was held in the backyard of Della Mae. The following year, 1975, they met in Atlanta, Georgia. The reunion was hosted by Elder Henry and Gracie Fountain. In 1976, the reunion was held in Sparks, Georgia and hosted by Sister Tommie Lee Moore. The family journeyed to Pompano Beach, Florida, to Sister Julia Bell Sanford’s home and elected officers for the National, District and Local. The national officers were as follows: President, James Hudson; Vice President, James Williams; Secretary, Julia Sanford and Treasurer, Maxine Fields. After the death of James Williams, David Fountain was elected to the office of Vice President. They held these offices until 1996, when a new set of National officers were elected. National President was David Fountain; Vice-President, Johnny C. Fountain, Jr.; Secretary, Gloria Fountain; Assistant Secretary, Castella Dixon; Treasurer, Maxine Fields; Chaplain, Elder Willie James Fountain; Benevolence Committee Chairperson Julia Bell Sanford. Officers were elected for three years. The Family Reunion added the New Jersey District, in 2003, making four districts. The reunion rotates within the four districts each year. We travel from coast to coast. Initially, we slept on floors, chairs and any place we could find. We were happy just being together! We've had happy times and sad times. The Lord has blessed this reunion to multiply each year. We are blessed with Pastors, Preachers, Deacons, Missionaries, Teachers; wonderful Fathers, Mothers, Sisters, Brothers, Nieces, Nephews, Cousins, adopted members into our family and beautiful, strong off-springs. Thanks be to God for his love and guidance that he allowed us to gather another year. God has and is still blessing our family. Our goal is to please God and serve mankind. If I can help somebody, then my living will not be in vain. May heavens riches blessing smile on each and every one of you.
God Bless Our Reunion
Fountain Family Song
We are members of the Fountain Reunion, We are members of the Fountain Reunion, We are members of the Fountain Reunion, We Trust God in all that we do. (Chorus) Rise, shine, give God the glory, glory, Rise, shine, give God the glory, glory, Rise, shine, give God the glory, glory, Trust God in all that you do God loves the Fountains, the Fountains love God, God loves the Fountains, the Fountains love God, God loves the Fountains, the Fountains love God, We Trust God in all that we do.
BYLAWS FOR THE FOUNTAIN FAMILY REUNION ARTICLES DATE OF AMMENDMENT I.
Be it resolved that the Fountain Family Reunion be incorporated.
II.
There shall be a National and four Local Organizations of the Fountain Family Reunion. The National Organization shall consist of a president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer, and corresponding secretary.
III.
(Amended June 29, 1996) (Amended June 29,1996. Elected Chaplain and Benevolence Committee Chair Person. Elected Education Committee Chairperson June 28, 1998). (Amended June 29, 1996)
IV.
The officers of the National Organization shall be selected from the area from which the National President is located.
V.
The local organization shall furnish a list of each adult family member or friend.
VI.
The local organization shall collect $5.00 National dues from each family member and their children living at home.
VII.
The National Organization shall combine the list and send the compiled list of each family member to the local organizations.
VIII.
National dues shall be used to help cover the expenses of the National Organization.
IX.
The National Organization shall send to each local organization any current news concerning births, deaths, marriages and etc. in the Fountain Family.
X.
The local organization shall furnish the National Organization current news concerning the family members of the local organization.
XI.
The names of the local district organizations shall be South Florida District, Atlanta District, North Florida/South Georgia District, New Jersey District.
XII.
The Fountain Family Reunion shall be held the Fourth Weekend of June.
XIII.
The reunion shall last two or three days depending on the local organization.
lXV.
The reunion shall begin on Friday night with a family get together or Saturday with the reunion dinner and program. The reunion shall always end with the family going to church together.
XV.
Each Family member shall take part in the expense of the reunion to be set by the organization that sponsor's the reunion.
XVI.
The reunion shall rotate among districts as to the place the reunion shall be held.
XVII.
There shall be an executive meeting of the local and National Organization at 6:00P.M.on the Saturday of the family reunion.
(Amended: Time announced by host district)
XVIII.
Family members may invite guest but shall notify the host organization and shall pay extra for guest over three.
(Amended June 27, 1999. Each invited guest must pay the host district)
lXX.
Individuals desiring to become a part of the Fountain Family Reunion, outside of the family, shall meet with the executive board to be voted on by the members of the executive board.
(Amended: June 29, 1996 $5.00 per adult Family member)
(Amended June 27, 1999. Funds used for serious illnesses and deaths within family).
(Amended: June 29, 2003. Trenton, New Jersey added as a new district.) (Amended June 23,2002 to Fourth weekend in June)
(Amended: Host District decide the day of the Reunion Dinner)
Program
39th Fountain Family Reunion Sunday, June 23, 2013 Wyndham Peachtree Conference Center Masters of Ceremony Verlinda “Lynn” Stanford and Tony Bernard Thompson
Opening Song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . “Fountain Family Song” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lannie Fountain South Georgia / North Florida District
Invocation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pastor Smith Atwater North Georgia / Atlanta District
Scripture. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Deacon Ronald Jackson North Georgia / Atlanta District
Welcome. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brenda Fountain North Georgia / Atlanta District
Words of Encouragement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bishop Paul Fortson North Georgia / Atlanta District
Commemoration of Our Loved Ones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Our Talents - Part 1 Instrumental - Christopher Barkley Musical Selection – Carrington Fountain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dinner is Served . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
“Lights, Camera, Action” Fountain Family Fashion Show Hosted by: Karen D. Fountain
A GIFT FOR YOU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Arlene Vanessa Harrell & Angela Mechelle Jackson North Georgia / Atlanta District
Our Talents - Part 2 Musical Selection - Norma Thompson, Mary Brown & Lillie Merritt Musical Selection – Kenyetta “Meechie” Fountain
Greetings from the South Georgia/North Florida District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Johnny C. Fountain, Sr. South Georgia / North Florida District
A GIFT FOR YOU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Arlene Vanessa Harrell & Angela Mechelle Jackson
Our Talents - Part 3 Stand-up Comedy – Mark Kevin Fortson Musical Selection – Vanessa Thompson Greetings from the New Jersey District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mary L. Brown President, New Jersey District
Our Talents - Part 4 Musical Rap – Elder Derryl Fountain Greetings from the South Florida District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Erica Sanford President, South Florida District
A GIFT FOR YOU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Arlene Vanessa Harrell & Angela Mechelle Jackson
Our Talents - Part 5 Musical Selection – Ellison Harrell SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Antonio “Tony” Barkley & Brenda Fountain North Georgia / Atlanta District
Special Remarks Evang. Norma Thompson President Emeritus—North Georgia/Atlanta District
Antonio “Tony” Barkley President—North Georgia/Atlanta District
Tony B. Thompson National Vice-President—Fountain Family Reunion
Felicia Roberts National President—Fountain Family Reunion
Benediction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pastor Willie J. Fountain North Georgia / Atlanta District President
Fun Time! K D A M K N K F R V R S W A L Y B L S F N F E N V E S A J S Z E X Q Z S O M U E R E J V I B R N T N E V P I R E B F O R T O M M Y L E E H E T Y T A M G K B N I P L X S R M B I S E T N U A I E P T H C H H O S M O R Q E E H W L U R Z D J E C A E L V T U A T P Q P E G X I E I O M C E M T O O D U M P I S A I I J F A J F E I P P U G S S W E E W C O C W L Y O H F R A N M S F S E M I T N U F A Z H M V G I I O T I S V D I F N G L O D H E N R Y T Z O L Z L K S E P A Q E A H H H S N O F O U N T A I N F A M I L Y R E U N I O N T B D F E D I E B Y M A X I N E V L L N E C I N C I P H Z E E N O U U R W P R U R D I Z S V E T O D F R Y G G F O C D L V X A N A Q H Y O G R Y R F V B C V K F G X Z H Q U H A L R S O C L D L K J T S E I R O M E M S U O I C E R P Z S X O L H L L K T I C J H G R A N D M O T H E R H D C A L R Q L O J E N S C E A N G E J V Z C J O Q N Y E B Y Z O Q G L K U B F P A D A K Y R G R ACHIEVEMENTS
FATHER
LAUGHTER
PICNIC
ATLANTA GEORGIA
FELLOWSHIP
LOVE
PICTURES
AUNT
FUN TIMES
MAXINE
PRECIOUSMEMORIES
BONDING
GRANDFATHER
MEETING
SISTER
BROTHER
GRANDMOTHER
MOTHER
TOMMYLEE
BYLAWS
HENRY
NEPHEW
UNCLE
CLAUDE
JAMES
NIECE
WISDOM
COUSIN
JOSEPHINE
OFFICERS
DELLA
JULIABELL
OLIVIA
College Graduations.. FOUNTAIN “You measure the size of the accomplishment by the obstacles you had to overcome to reach your goals”. ~Booker T. Washington
Karen Davita Fountain graduated from Strayer University on Saturday, May 18, 2013 at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Georgia. She received a Master of Business Administration degree, with a concentration in Hospitality and Tourism. She is also a member of the GOLDEN KEY INTERNATIONAL HONOUR SOCIETY. Karen is the daughter of David and Gloria Fountain and the granddaughter of the late Henry and Grace Fountain. She has two sisters, Kim and Kristie.
GAINES Siedai Gaines graduated from Ramapo College of New Jersey, in Rutherford. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. Siedai plans to take the NCLEX Licensure exam during the summer of 2013 in order to become a Registered Nurse (RN). She plans on working in a hospital and later continuing her education to become a Certified Nurse Midwife / Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner. Siedai is the daughter of Rodney and Marilyn Gaines and the granddaughter of Tommie and Williene Neal, Sr. and Alberta Gaines.
HARRELL Elisa Harrell graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in Sociology and English. She is currently living in Tennessee to pursue her career as a teacher. She is the daughter of Ellison Harrell and step-daughter of Vanessa Harrell. She has one brother, Ellison Harrell, III.
High School Graduations.. EVERS Justice Evers graduated from Palm Beach Lakes Community High School. Justice is the daughter of Felisha Roberts and Jeffrey Evers.
FOUNTAIN From the desk of Jamarius Fountain… “I have completed what seems to be the most important stepping stone in my life. I am finally graduating from high school," Class of 2013"! After 12 years, I have finally completed my educational career....this is a big accomplishment. I am now moving on to start my career as a U.S. Army Soldier, where my job will be Food Service Specialist, and my title will be, U.S Army Airborne. My plan is to serve in the Army for three years, and continue until I feel I have served my country to the best of my ability. My departure date is August 6, 2013. I am more than happy with my decision, and know I will make my family and my country proud.” Jamarius is the son of Andre Fountain and grandson of Audwin and Bert Fountain.
MOORE Kayvon Moore graduated from High School and is now attending his second year of College. He is the son of Tyisina Smith and the great-grandson of Mary L. Brown.
Middle School Graduations.. Diamond Brooks graduated from Parkway Middle School. Diamond s the daughter of Somer Sanford.
Jala Evers graduated from William Dandy Middle School. Jala is the daughter of Felisha Roberts & Jeffrey Evers.
Ashley Howard graduated from Bair Middle School. Ashley is the sister of Erica Sanford.
Corinthians Tweensey graduated from Silver Lakes Middle School. Corinthians is the granddaughter of Maxine Fields.
Ashonta Williams graduated from Westglades Middle School. Ashonta is the daughter of Betty Fields & Dwayne Williams.
Elementary School Graduations.. Kayjah Matthews graduated from Eagles Nest Charter School. Kaylah is the daughter of Kevin Matthews.
Awards & Recognition.. BARKLEY
FOUNTAIN Christopher Aguirre Barkley was selected from 35 schools to participate in a 5th grade honor band for a concert. Christopher plays the trumpet. He was also promoted to the to the 6th grade. “Chris” is the son of Justin Barkley and grandson of Brenda Fountain.
Emmitt Fountain is a, A&B Student. he scored above average on the national CRCT test. he is being promoted to the 5th grade. Emmitt is the son of Derryl Fountain and grandson of the late Annie Sarah Fountain.
JACKSON
BOSWELL
Raegan M. Jackson was inducted into the Jr. Bets Club at Colonial Hills Christian School. She earned a place on the Honor Roll and was promoted to the 8th grade. Raegan is the daughter of Ron and Mechelle Jackson; and the granddaughter of the late Doris Murry.
Kevin Boswell, Jr. placed 2nd in the Science Fair at his school. Kevin created the “Naked Egg”. He is the son of Kevin and Marlysha Boswell and the great grandson of Mary L. Brown.
EASON Tyler Eason was awarded for making A/B honor roll for the entire 2012/2013 school year, he made and participated in the Fayette County Science Olympiad and for passing all subjects, exceeding in Science & Social Studies on the GA CRCT. He also played basketball, ran track and was promoted to the 4th grade! Tyler is the son of Lisa Tolbert and Winston Eason.
FOUNTAIN Donovan Fountain is an A & B student. He also scored above average on the National CRCT test, and will be promoted to the 4th grade. Donovan is the son of Derryl Fountain and grandson of the late Annie Sarah Fountain.
JONES Zamya Zones made the Honor Roll. Zamya is a 3rd grade student. She is the daughter of Jamar and Nyeesha Jones and the great-grand-daughter of Mary L. Brown.
LYNUM Braylon Jo’el Lynum continues to make progress in all areas of his development. Braylon has been seizure free for over a year and off medication. He is learning to walk and learning to communicate his needs and wants through simple sign language and pictures. Braylon continues to receive therapy 3 times a week. He is currently learning to use the iPad for learning, entertainment and communication. Braylon, although a little behind most his age has made huge strides in catching up. He is a healthy, happy active 2 year old that loves his mommy, his sister and Elmo in that order. Braylon is the son of Tamara Fountain, the grand-son of Larry and Viola Fountain and the great grand-son of the late Papa and Madea Fountain.
Awards & Recognition.. LYNUM
PORTER
Brooklynn Brielle Lynum participated in her first dance recital at the Southwest Arts Center in South Fulton County on May 18th. She along with 7 other little girls performed to a version of “Shoo Fly”. Brooklynn loves to dance and entertain, but if you ask what she wants to be when she grows up she’ll tell you a doctor and a super hero! Besides her love for her family she also adores President Obama. Brooklynn is 3 years old and the daughter of Tamara Fountain, the grand-daughter of Larry and Viola Fountain and the great grand-daughter of the late Papa and Madea Fountain.
Noree Porter made the Honor Roll and was received an award for being the most polite in school. Noree is the daughter of Maryisha Boswell and Bernard Porter. She is the great-grand-daughter of Mary L. Brown.
MURRY Avis Murry was promoted to 8th grade, at Hapeville Charter Middle School. Avis earned honor roll status both semesters of his 7th grade school year. He also placed 1st in the School Science Fair, at the 7th grade level and he achieved second place over all for the school level. Avis went on to compete at the Fulton County Regional Science and Engineering Fair. He received a certificate for participating in the school "Mock Trial". He was a member of the school soccer team. Avis is the secretary for the Junior Laymen, at Bethlehem Baptist Church. He remains active on the Jr. Usher Board and continues to enjoy attending Sunday School. Avis won first place in the church’s "Earth Day Poster” contest. Amari Murry was promoted to 7th grade, at Hapeville Charter Middle School. Amari earned Principal's List status for the entire school year. She achieved the highest average in Social Studies, second highest average in Science and Spanish and the third highest Math average for the 6th grade during the first semester. She is a member of the "Student Government Association" and holds the position of school " treasurer". She was also a member of the group, "Odyssey of the Mind" and the school’s soccer team. She remains active in the church choir, Girl Scouts and the church’s praise dance team ministry. She also continues to enjoy Sunday School. Avis and Amari are the children of Avis and Teky Murry and the grandchildren of the late Doris Murry.
RAYMOND Tyshawn Raymond placed 2nd in the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Tyshawn is the son of Deborah and the grandson of Mary L. Brown.
THOMPSON Antonio Christian Thompson was promoted to the 5th Grade at Suder Elementary School. He received several awards for “Outstanding Work” and “Most Improved Student”. He created a project for the school’s Science Fair called, "The Stars and Our Solar System”. He was entered in the Science Fair at Suder Elementary School. Antonio was promoted to WEBELOS II Rank, in Cub Scout Pack 543 of Jonesboro, Georgia. He was the winner of the Pinewood Derby (car race)- 1st Place for Cub Scout 543; and winner of the Rain Gutter Regatta (Boat Race) 1st Place for Cub Scout Pack 543. He received the Highest Award for "Scouting for Food" Project in which he collected over 500 can goods for the Homeless Shelter. Antonio is also a member of the Battle Droids Soccer Team for Henry County, where he received several awards for "Outstanding Player". Antonio is the son of Tony and Vanessa Thompson and the grandson of Norma J. Thompson and the late Theodore Thompson.
Sports Stories.. BARKLEY
JOHNSON
McKenzie L. Barkley received her Yellow Belt in Karate, from the Green Room Martial Arts Studio in Mableton, Georgia. The Yellow Belt, historically, “signifies the first beams of sunlight which shines upon the seed giving it new strength with the beginning of new life. A yellow belt student is given his/her first ray of knowledge, opening his/her mind, from his/her instructors.” McKenzie is the daughter of Antonio “Tony” Barkley and granddaughter of Brenda Fountain.
Efren Johnson II was selected as Drum Major of Dillard High School Band for the upcoming 2013-2014 school year. This position is usually held by seniors only, however Efren was selected as junior. Efren is the son of Erica Sanford & Efren Johnson.
FOUNTAIN Bailey Fountain's play on the CHAMPIONSHIP WINNING, Blue Devils football team in Fayette County, Georgia. Also, he scored above average on the national CRCT testing, earned a place on the honor roll, and won first chair in the band as a percussionist. Bailey is being promoted to the 7th grade. He is the son of Derryl Fountain and the grandson of the late Sarah Fountain.
FOUNTAIN Carrington Grace Fountain is an avid softball player, whose team placed runner up in tournaments this year. She attends Bennett's Mill Middle School, achieved 3 out of 5 “Exceeds Expectations” scores on her CRCT exam, and is in gifted classes. Carrington loves to sing, read, and socialize. Her bubbly and outgoing personality makes her a leader among her peers. Carrington is the daughter of Kenyetta Fountain, the granddaughter of Smith and Merrian Atwater and the great-granddaughter of the late Annie Sarah Fountain.
PRESSLEY Dasia Sharnae Pressley is fifteen years old, and is a freshman at Neshaminy High School, Langhorne PA. She is the youngest daughter of Darren and Denay Pressley. Her older sisters are Demeka and Demetria. She is the grand -daughter of Lillie Merritt. Dasia is currently the 6th fastest freshman in the state of Pennsylvania. She qualified for Nationals as a freshman and made the 1st Team USA. In the midst of her great track season, she continues to remain an honor roll student. God has truly blessed Dasia with the gift of running. Her new found Bible verse is, Joshua 1:9 "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
THOMPSON Aryana Thompson is a rising Junior at Jonesboro High School, in Jonesboro, Georgia. She made the Cheerleading Squad and was awarded "Most Spirited" for her exuberant display of school pride. Aryana was also appointed to be on the team again for the 2013-2014 school year. She is the daughter of Tony and Vanessa Thompson and the grand-daughter of Norma J. Thompson.
Achievements, Appointments and Promotions FORTSON Paul Quentin Fortson, the eldest son of Bishop Paul and Carolyn Fortson, was ordained as an Elder in the Church of God in Christ, on October 26, 2012. His father, Bishop Paul Fortson was the officiate for the ordination service. He is a member of the Paradise Church of God in Christ, in Forest Park, Georgia. Paul Quentin is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity degree from the Interdenominational Theological Center, in Atlanta, Georgia.
McDOWELL Sharon McDowell was appointed as the Sunshine Band president for the South Central Georgia Jurisdiction of the Church of God in Christ. Sharon also celebrated 25 years of service at the Georgia Institute of Technology. This year, she received a promotion as an Assistant to the Chair for the School of Mathematics. Sharon is the first lady of the Word Warriors Ministries Church of God in Christ and her husband Elder Jerome McDowell is the pastor. They are the parents of one lovely daughter, Christine. She is the daughter of the late Doris Murry.
OGISTE Willa Ogiste was appointed as The Eastern Florida Jurisdiction Sunday School Representative. STANFORD Chimere Stanford Jefferson begin working in the Office of the President, at Morehouse College in 2010. Since that time, she has been afforded the opportunity to meet and speak with several prominent persons in education, government, business and entertainment. Recently, she served on the Commencement Planning Committee, that welcomed the 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama to the campus of Morehouse. Specifically, she was assigned to the VIP section for high-profile guests, including, Atlanta Mayor, Kasim Reed, Congressman John Lewis, Eddie Levert, Marvin Sapp, Johnny Gill and Kandi Burruss and Jasmine Guy. Chimere has one son, RJ, who she hold very near to her heart. She is the daughter of Verlinda Stanford, sister of Shuron Stanford and granddaughter of Norma J. Thompson and the late, Theodore Thompson.
THOMPSON Tony Bernard Thompson was honored by the Clayton County Public Schools System as "Man Of The Year" for Community Involvement and Mentoring Program. He also received a Certificate Of Excellence for Volunteer Service "Mentor" at Suder Elementary School and a Certificate Of Excellence for Involvement in the "Mentoring and Partnership in Education� for Clayton County Schools. Tony is a member of The Henry County Coaches Association and the United States Soccer Federation for Georgia Soccer. He serves a coach of The Battle Droids for Henry County Soccer. He was also promoted to Chaplain for Cub Scout Pack 543 Jonesboro, Georgia. Tony is married to Vanessa Thompson and they have two beautiful children, Aryana and Antonio. He is the son of Norma J. Thompson and the late, Theodore Thompson.
Exciting Moments in Time.. STANFORD ONE OF MY EXCITING MOMENTS by Verlinda Stanford This is to inform my family of one of the most exciting moments of my life. At the age of 13, when I received Christ as my Lord and Savior, that was the most exciting inward feeling that I have ever experienced. For eleven years, I was my mother’s (Norm Thompson) only child. When she came home from the hospital with my baby brother, Tony, my heart was filled with joy – another exciting moment for me. When my eyes looked upon my children (Chimere & Shuron) for the first time, it was another exciting moment in my life. Oh my goodness when my grandchildren (RJ and Willow) were born I was speechless, another exciting moment. When I graduated from college, wow, another great moment. Of course when I received my evangelist license, that was another precious moment in my life. The list actually could keep going, but I guess I better stop.
My daughter, Chimere Stanford-Jefferson, who works in the Office of the President at Morehouse College, as a third level Administrative Assistant, invited me to attend the college’s 129th Commencement. The ceremony was held on May 19, 2013, at 11:00 a.m., on the campus of Morehouse College, in Atlanta, GA. I had the great opportunity to be seated with many dignitaries such as: Congressman John Lewis; Atlanta Mayor, Kasim Reed; Atlanta City Councilmember, Michael Bond; the family of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr; Real Housewives of Atlanta star, Kandi Burruss; R&B artists Eddie Levert and Johnny Gill; and many more. The noted Commencement speaker was the 44th President of the United State of America, BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA! This is the exciting moment that happened in my life!!! WOW!! What an honor to be that close to our President! It is a feeling that I can’t explain!!! After the Commencement, I attended the President’s reception, host by the College’s President and First Lady, Dr. John Silvanus Wilson and Dr. Carol Espy-Wilson. I thank God for that great opportunity. “I Corinthians 2:9, But as it is written, eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” To, Chimere my precious daughter, many, many special thanks to you, because of you my dream unfolded. I offer a big thanks to President Wilson and the Morehouse College staff. MAY 19, 2013 @ 11 A.M. WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED
Ministers of the Gospel.. Smith and Merrian Atwater - Pastors of Unity Christian Church in Fayetteville, GA
Paul and Carolyn Fortson -
Pastors of Paradise Church of God in Christ, in Forest Park, GA / Bishop of Barbados & Caribbean Jurisdiction
Quentin Fortson – Associate Pastor at Paradise Church of God in Christ in Forest Park, GA
Will and Patricia Fountain – Pastors of Hogansville Church of God in Christ in Hogansville, GA
Sharon and Jerome McDowell - Pastors of Word Warriors Ministry in Newnan, Georgia
John D Moore-
Associate Pastor at World Changers in College Park, GA
Derryl Fountain – Youth Pastor at Unity Christian Church in Tyrone, GA
J Bell Sanford - Evangelist in Fort Lauderdale Church of God in Christ in Fort Lauderdale
Verlinda Stanford – Evangelist at Paradise Church of God in Christ
Norma Jean Thompson – Evangelist at Paradise Church of God in Christ
Family Businesses..
Paradise Childcare Development Center Bishop Paul & Carolyn Fortson Fountain Flow Entertainment Reginald Fountain, Jr. (DJ)
Angelic Joy Designs Yolanda N. Fountain
Arlene’s Christian Childcare Arlene Vanessa Harrell Victorious Christian Servant Designs Verlinda , Chimere & Shuron Stanford Fountain Transportation Services, Inc. and the Learning Station Childcare Andre & Sharona Fountain
Careers on the Move.. ATWATER Gina Atwater currently works for J.J. Abrams at Bad Robot Productions, and she earned her first big screen credit in this year's Star Trek Into Darkness. Look for her in the film! Her short film Crossing recently won the Spike Lee Student Film Award at the Starz Denver Film Festival. It has played in dozens of film festivals around the world, including Paris, Los Angeles, New York, Atlanta, and Washington DC. It will next be seen in Montreal, Canada. Gina is the daughter of Smith and Merriam Atwater, Pastor and First Lady of the Unity Christian Church, in Fayetteville, Georgia. She is the granddaughter of the late Annie Sarah Fountain. Gina has two siblings, Kenyetta “Meechie” and Joshua.
MOORE Qulanda R Moore has recently released her 1st feature film. The movie, "A Time for Love" was filmed in her hometown Atlanta, Ga. On Sunday, May 26th. The movie premiered for its 1st theatrical release at the Plaza Theater in Midtown to a sold out crowd! Qulanda has been blessed to be living her dream and is witnessing her visions come to life. She is thankful for all of the love and support of her friends and family as she embarks on this new journey of her career as a filmmaker. She wishes to continue to inspire other young aspiring artists to live their dreams and tap into their God-given, fullest potential. Qulanda is the daughter of John D. Moore .
Careers on the Move.. LET’S LEARN ABOUT HYPERTENSION – THE SILENT KILLER Knowledge Is Power On April 14, 2013, I had the privilege of working in the 9th Annual Health fair sponsored by my Sorority: Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.-Atlanta Alumnae Chapter. I worked at Booth #10 and conducted blood pressure screenings. I discovered that many people were familiar with the term “Hypertension” but many did not truly understand what it is, and more importantly many people were unaware of the adverse effects if left untreated. Medical education is key, which is why I felt compelled to share some basic information on hypertension, a potentially very serious yet treatable disease. Hypertension (HTN), most commonly known as High blood pressure (BP), is a chronic condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is elevated. Blood pressure is summarized by two measurements: the systolic (top number) and the diastolic (bottom number). Systolic is the measurement during an actively contracting heart (a heartbeat) and diastolic is the measurement of a temporarily resting heart (between beats). A normal blood pressure reading is “120 over 80” (120/80), meaning the systolic BP is 120 and the diastolic BP is 80. While this is the standard number, a normal blood pressure reading can vary from person. Chronically elevated blood pressures damage the heart as well as other organs such as the eyes and kidneys, where these high pressures damage tiny blood vessels. A person is said to have high blood pressure if their blood pressure readings are equal to or higher than 140/90. (Please remember this number- this is very important.) Hypertension (HTN) is globally divided into two categories: Essential HTN and Secondary HTN. Essential HTN is the most common type and is the focus of this article. It is due to a nonidentifiable cause and accounts for most cases of HTN (90-95%).These are the cases where people just seem to get high blood pressure “out of the blue” and it’s usually diagnosed during and health screening or discovered when the patient seeks medical care for a different medical problem. There are several factors that contribute to the development of Essential HTN. We break these down into modifiable risk factors and non-modifiable risk factors. Nonmodifiable risk factors are things that you cannot change (such as age and genetic make-up), and modifiable risk factors are things that can be changed, such as weight, diet, and exercise. Aging contributes to HTN because as our ar-
teries get older they get more stiff and create more resistance for the heart. We cannot change the fact that we get older, but we can make changes to how we eat and how we exercise. Hypertension (HTN) has been nicknamed the” Silent Killer” because most times patients have no symptoms, until it’s too late (“Too late” often means they are having a stroke). Studies have shown that 1 in every 4 African Americans has HTN and many of these patients are undiagnosed. We routinely discover HTN during a clinic visit or a health fair. Patients won’t complain because, they never feel anything, so they won’t know to ask about their blood pressure. . A patient is not officially diagnosed on the first high reading. We have them come back to the office in about 2-4 weeks. If the blood pressure is still high (140/90), then we will diagnose them with hypertension (HTN). The final diagnosis is classified in stages and treatment is based on how high the blood pressure is; the higher the number the greater the need for medication, but all HTN treatment must start with recommendations for modifiable factors, meaning change in diet and exercise. These changes include reducing your salt intake, drinking more water and getting more daily exercise. In addition to making changes to your diet and exercising, you can monitor your blood pressure at home. Many drug stores and pharmacies sell blood pressure monitors that you can use. (See picture). These are very affordable (around $30 bucks) and very simple to use. If you chose not to purchase a BP monitor, you can check your blood pressure for free at a local fire station and at local grocery stores and pharmacies. I often check my blood pressure at CVS, Wal-Mart and Publix and I have found these machines to be very accurate. You can write down the number and share it with your healthcare provider at your next visit. The most important thing you can do for yourself is to stay educated. An educated patient is more likely to adopt a healthy lifestyle, take their medicines and take charge of their health. DO NOT LET YOUR QUESTIONS GO UNANSWERED. You have too many resources to not be informed. If your healthcare provider is unavailable, please ask me or your local pharmacist. You can also find a lot of helpful information on the internet, but please confirm any information on line with counseling from a health care professional. If we continue to work together and take charge of our health, we can eliminate and/or curtail many or our ailments. Let’s all work together so that we can have happier and healthier lives. Yours in Great Health, Kimberly T. Fountain, M.D., M.S.
Nuptials.. FIELDS
STANFORD
Nemiyah & Wendy Fields were joined in holy matrimony on March 23, 2013. Nemiyah is the son of Bonnie Fields and grandson of Josephine Hughes.
Willie Shuron Stanford and Ashleye Renee Newson were engaged in December of 2012. They will be joined in Holy Matrimony on July 20, 2013 at the Paradise Church of God in Christ, in Forest Park, Georgia. “Shuron” is the son of Verlinda Stanford and grandson of Norma J. Thompson.
Births.. BARKLEY
BROWN (Great-Grands of Mary Brown) Alana Faith Barkley was born on July 18, 2012. She is the daughter of Justin & Nicole Barkley and the grand-daughter of Brenda Fountain.
Tyrianna Hill Ty-Rome Hill Gabriella Jones Janiyah Jones Cameron Moore Cianna Moore Kaylyn Walker
Passages.. Veronice Fountain passed away in February of 2013. Ms. Fountain was married to "Little John" Fountain and was the mother of three. She was the daughter-in-law of Johnny & Cornelia Fountain.
Pastor Alonzo Penson passed away in May of 2013. He was the grandfather of Queesie Moore and David Moore (children of John Moore).
Tyrone Andrew Hill, Jr. passed away in April of 2012. He was the son of Deborah Hill and grandson of Mary L. Brown.
Milestone Birthdays
80th
70th Birthday
40th Birthday
40th Birthday
40th Birthday
Birthday John H. Fountain February 26, 2013
David Fountain May 2, 2013
Kenyetta Fountain January 21, 2013
Kimberly Fountain March 14, 2013
Paul Q. Fortson October 5, 2012
40th Birthday
25th Birthday
21st Birthday
ThirTEEN Raegan M. Jackson April 18, 2013
1st Birthday Willow R. Stanford October 13, 2012
Stephanie Fountain December 12, 2012
Ashley Wilson September 4, 2013
Joshua Atwater August 28, 2012
Sweet 16 Aryana Thompson November 4, 2012
ThirTEEN Avis M. Murry, Jr. October 25, 2012
ThirTEEN Carrington Fountain November 7, 2013
Terrific Two Braylon Lynum January 17, 2013
Terrific Two Royce “RJ” Jefferson April 7, 2013
Service with a Smile.. On the occasion of the 39th Annual Fountain Family Reunion we pay heartfelt tribute to
Mrs. Norma Jean Thompson
for offering more than 30 years of faithful service, as President of the Atlanta District. As the torch is passed, we pray that the spirit of your stellar leadership will follow us into the next era of our reunion. We Love You!
2013 P lanning Committee North Georgia/Atlanta District PLANNING COORDINATOR Merrian Atwater FINANCE COMMITTEE Brenda Fountain Paul Quentin Fortson LOGISTICS COORDINATOR Gloria Fountain BANQUET PROGRAM COMMITTEE Chimere Stanford Jefferson Verlinda Stanford MEET& GREET COMMITTEE Trina Rucker Kenyetta “Meechie” Fountain Nina Fountain Chimere Stanford Jefferson PICNIC COMMITTEE Derryl Fountain Larry Fountain Viola Fountain Willie James Fountain Audwin Fountain Maurice Murry Shuron Stanford Tony Thompson T-SHIRT COORDINATOR Bishop Paul L. Fortson MEDIA COMMITTEE Joshua Atwater Kevin Fortson Ronald Jackson HOSTESSES Carrington Fountain Raegan Jackson Amari Murry Aryana Thompson
Special thanks to all members of the North Georgia Atlanta District that assisted in making this year’s Fountain Family Reunion a success.
Program designed by Chimere Stanford Jefferson - VCS Designs chimeresstanford@yahoo.com