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GOOD NEWS!!!
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16 Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep. If I should die before I awake, I pray the Lord my soul to take. A Childs Prayer (traditional)
As a child, these were some of the first verses that I was taught to memorize. It is probably true that most of my generation memorized them as well. The ideas expressed in those verses formed the bedrock of the religious heritage that sustained our family through the trials and tribulations on our journey to where we are. As we approach the Christmas season, it is my hope that the promise of that heritage will guide and protect our families, and enable them to prosper, as we move into the next century and beyond. It is also my hope and prayer that the power of that heritage will reclaim our family members that have temporarily strayed from the right path. MERRY CHRISTMAS!! Monroe Fordham
REPORT FROM THANKSGIVING REUNION (Cynthia Carter-Bulger, Mckinley Bradley, and Brenda Washington) The Thanksgiving Family Gathering was enjoyed by all. The food was great and there was more than enough. Terry Arnold did an outstanding job as program coordinator. The Mckinley Bradleys, Brenda Washington and the entire southwest Georgia team did their usual outstanding job. Cynthia Carter-Bulger designed the program. The one-day program began at Macedonia Baptist Church in Parrott. Deacons Otis Oxford, Reginald Carter, and Loverture Carter were in charge of the devotion. Ceremonies also included musical selections, scripture reading, and lighting of candles in memory of deceased loved ones. The Rev. Ronnie Jackson of Dawson gave the sermon. (The Rev. Elgin D. Rucker and the delegation from Orlando Florida were unable to get to the reunion because of car trouble en route.) Rev. Jackson’s message was taken from John 15:12-14. Rev. Jackson’s sermon was outstanding. Other speakers, who presented inspirational remarks, included Loverture Carter and Demetrius Smith. The gathering collected $355 for the Mance and Sarah Oxford Scholarship. Following the religious service, the gathering drove down to Dawson Georgia for the old fashion family Thanksgiving dinner. There was enough food to feed a small army. Needless to say, a good time was had by all. Several people who planned to attend the reunion but were unable to because of circumstances beyond their control. Monroe Fordham and his family were unable to get out of Buffalo because of the much publicized snow storm. Janie Dozier (of Jacksonville, FLA.) has been ill. (Remember her in your prayers). Finally, the Orlando FLA contingent had car trouble.
MANCE & SARAH ANN OXFORD MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP AWARD
This is to announce that the Mance and Sarah Ann Oxford Scholarship for 2001 is now open for applications. The scholarship awards, in the amount of $500 each will be made in June, 2001. The purpose of the award is to encourage and assist high school graduates who are descendants of Mance and Sarah Ann Oxford.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
1. Applicant must be a descendant of Mance and Sarah Ann Oxford. 2. Applicant must be a high school senior who plans to attend college or a trade school following high school graduation.
PROCEDURE FOR APPLYING (!!!! IMPORTANT, PLEASE DO ALL OF THE FOLLOWING !!!!)
(Letter of application MUST include the following) 1. Applicant’s name, applicant’s address, phone number, etc. 2. Statement explaining applicant’s relationship to the Oxford clan. 3. Statement explaining applicant’s vocational or professional goals in life, and listing the college or trade school that you plan to attend. 4. A copy of applicant’s high school transcript. 5. The application deadline is May 1, 2001. APPLICATIONS THAT DO NOT INCLUDE ALL OF THE ABOVE WILL BE INELIGIBLE.
Send all of the above to:
Mance & Sarah Ann Oxford Scholarship 49 Calvert Blvd. Tonawanda, NY 14150
GRADUATE STUDENT AWARDS
Oxford descendants who have been accepted, or are enrolled, in a graduate school are eligible for a one time graduate student award of $500. Deadlines for applications are the same as the above. Applicants should submit a copy of their letter of acceptance to graduate school, or a copy of their most recent grades for graduate courses. Applicants should also explain their education goals and list their major course of study.
CONTRIBUTORS TO THE OXFORD SCHOLARSHIP Since the last newsletter, Reggie and Naomi Carter contributed $100 to the Mance and Sarah Oxford Scholarship. Gwen Carter Jenkins contributed $100, and the Thanksgiving Oxford Family Gathering collected $355 for the Mance and Sarah Oxford Scholarship Fund. If anyone wants a complete list of all of the contributors to the scholarship since its inception in 1990, as well as a complete list of all recipients of the scholarship, send your request to Monroe Fordham, 49 Calvert Blvd., Tonawanda NY 14150.
SCRIPTURES TO LIVE BY
I will put an end to the arrogance of the haughty and will humble the pride of the ruthless. Isaiah 13:11
Humility and fear of the Lord will bring wealth and honor and life. Proverbs 22:4
FOR THE HAUGHTY AND ARROGANT; A SOBERING THOUGHT (lyrics from a country western song)
Midnight was a champion, the only horse I could not ride. Now ol’ Midnight’s blind, he rides little children for a dime.
WANTED: FAMILY HISTORIES We want to have a special area on our oxford9 web site that contains family histories of families from the Oxford clan. Those histories can be histories of one or two generations of a family, or they can cover a longer span of time. They can be biographical sketches of one person that covers their personal journey through time, or they can be composite sketches of a group of people. Whatever the format, we want to get all age groups in our family to think about, and more importantly, to begin to record some of what they know about their family’s history. We encourage anyone and everyone to get involved. Parents talk to your children about family history, school aged children write about your family in school, seniors use your spare time to write biographical sketches about your life and the roads you have traveled and the struggles you have encountered. And don’t worry about being eloquent, the content is what’s important—your story. The family histories can be our gift to future generations. Start writing and send your material to M. Fordham, 49 Calvert Blvd., Tonawanda NY 14150.
FAMILY ACHIEVEMENTS Cynthia Carter-Bulger has been nominated and selected by the Macon County (Georgia) Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors to hold the position of President of the Macon County Chamber of Commerce for 2001. She is the first African American to hold this community leadership position. Cynthia currently serves on the BOD and chairs the Membership Drive. Cynthia’s other civic leadership includes Chairperson of the Montezuma Unity Council, Executive Council Member and Treasurer for the Technical Institutes Directors Association, Inc. of Georgia. To celebrate the latest milestone in her career, Cynthia and her husband James, enjoyed a five-day getaway to Lake Buena Vista, FL with grandsons (3 year old Tyler and 1 year old Colby), sons of Demetrius and Shannon Golphin-Smith of Syrmna, GA.
ADDRESS CHANGES, NEW ADDRESSES If you’ve moved and/have a new address, please send the new information to me so that I can change the information in our database. If you know of relatives who don’t get the newsletter, send me their names. Thanks.
The Oxford Family Newsletter "LOOK HOW FAR THE LORD HAS BROUGHT US" October 2000 Number 47
FAMILY REUNION UPDATE
The next Oxford Family Reunion is scheduled as follows:
DATE: Thursday, November 23, 2000 PLACE: Dawson and Parrott, GA
This is the last notice that you will receive prior to the reunion—so keep this information handy. Don’t forget to make your reservations for the Thanksgiving family reunion in Dawson. Persons from out of town are urged to make room reservations at the Ramada Limited motel in Dawson (912-995-5725). Money to cover the costs of the Thanksgiving dinner and the use of the kitchen at the Government Building in Dawson should be sent to Mckinley Bradley, P.O. Box 518, Sasser GA 31785. Each family is assessed a $10 fee to cover the rental of the building. To cover the cost of food, each adult should send in $10 and $5 per child. Send in your money to Brad today, or call him and let him know that you are coming. (912-698-5875) On Thursday morning at 10 A.M. (November 23), we will assemble at the Macedonia Baptist Church, in Parrott GA for a Thanksgiving devotional service. Following that, we will drive in a caravan to the Government Building in Dawson for a thanksgiving dinner.
OXFORD FAMILY ARCHIVES IN OXFORD9 WEB SITE?
At the outset, one of the purposes of the Oxford9 WEB site will be to provide a forum for the development of a series of personal family histories. Many of those historical sketches will be written by the younger generation of Oxford descendants. We are inviting those persons to interview their parents and grandparents, and aunts and uncles and write their own histories of their particular families. In addition, the older generation should write down or put their recollections of family history and old family stories on tape before it is too late. (If the older generation wants to tape record their material and send it to us, we will get it transcribed and typed). When did your families migrate to the cities where they live and why? Where did they migrate from? What was it like growing up? What would you like to tell others about your family? Some may be able to do school term papers on their history of their immediate family. We will even put pictures on the WEB if you send them. Eventually, the series of individual family histories will give us a clearer picture of the larger story of the Oxford clan. From time to time we will publish excerpts from the family history sketches in the Oxford Family Newsletter. Make sure that your family is represented. Get started with your family interviews today. We will begin publishing them on our family WEB site as soon as we receive them. Since our first issue of the newsletter in 1988 (twelve years ago), we have received death notices (and sometimes funeral programs) for 22 of our relatives. During that period, the newsletter has published obituaries of the following; Gerry Deon Collins, Major Wade Carter, Martha Faye Oxford, Leona Walton Huckleberry, Dollie Thornton, Anthony Harden, Willie Lee "Coot Jr." Iverson, Jr., Adolphus "Flick" Oxford Sr., John Albert Hall, Nannie Mae Telafare, Redessa Oxford Powell, Fleta Carter, Theodore Benjamin Alexander, John L. "Jaybird" Oxford, Jesse Adell Oxford, Vera Bell May Mote, and the four persons listed above. We would like to include an "obituary" section in the Oxford Family WEB site. If members of our extended family would send copies of funeral programs from family funerals to me, we could put copies of obituaries on our WEB site. We would have an alphabetized list of the obituaries preceding the actual obituaries, that way it would be easy to find specific persons. Plus, the actual obituaries would always be in alphabetical order. Eventually we could have hundreds of family obituaries in the section. In a few years almost everyone will either have, or have access to, computers and WEB site links. Wouldn’t it be nice if our family had its own private archives? Well that’s what the Oxford9 WEB site could become if you provide us with the contents to post on the site. Our children could research and learn about their roots from our own private archives. All of our newsletters from previous years will be there. There will be a section with summary writeups of all the past Oxford Scholarship recipients by year. If people respond by sending family historical sketches and obituaries, there could be many individual family historical sketches and a collection of family obituaries. In addition, we will post family pictures, and proceedings and reports from family reunions. The WEB site also has a request form for requesting copies of the Mance and Sarah Oxford descendants/family tree report. That report lists the hundreds of descendants of Mance and Sarah and the families they belong to. The possibilities for our WEB site are endless. Let us know if you have ideas. www.oxford9.com is our special space on the world wide web. That address and space belongs to us and no one else can ever use it. We hope that our extended family will help to develop the site and make it a true family archive that future generations of our children will be able to plug into and get information about their roots. Given the many pitfalls and obstacles of the modern world, our children will need the self-confidence and stability that knowledge of God and family can provide. The Oxford Family Newsletter, the Oxford WEB site, the Oxford Scholarship program and everything else that we do aims to help our extended family cope more effectively with the modern world. What can you do to help? Send us copies of all of your old family funeral programs as well as present and future programs, write and send us historical sketches of your family, help us to keep our descendants reports updated by sending us the information about new births in your family, send us the names and addresses of family members that are not on our mailing list. We will work for the family in publishing a family newsletter, and in maintaining our WEB site—and it will not cost you anything. However, we need your help in doing the things mentioned above. We look forward to hearing from you. "Look How Far the Lord Has Brought Us!!" And "Who Knows What We May Yet Become!!" Monroe Fordham 49 Calvert Blvd. Tonawanda, NY 14150 716-691-4257
FAMILY NEWS
Congratulations to Gwen Carter Jenkins, daughter of Reggie & Naomi Carter. She received her Administrative Degree from Troy State University in Phoenix City, Alabama. Gwen has been employed with the Taylor County School System for fourteen years as a Kindergarten Teacher. She was recently promoted to Assistant Principal of the Taylor County Elementary School in Butler, Georgia. Gwen has two sons, LaRone, a junior at Valdosta State University, and Amanzie II, a fifth grader at Taylor County Elementary. Gwen stated that her goal as an educator is to "help to promote a solid and successful background for all children which will enable them to be proud of their "accomplishments." It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to stand on the heights. (Psalm 18:32-33)
MANCE AND SARAH OXFORD SCHOLARSHIP
2001 This is to announce that the Mance and Sarah Ann Oxford Scholarship for 2001 is now open for applications. The scholarship awards, in the amount of $500 each will be made in June, 2001. The purpose of the award is to encourage and assist high school graduates who are descendants of Mance and Sarah Ann Oxford.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS 1. Applicant must be a descendant of Mance and Sarah Ann Oxford. 2. Applicant must be a high school senior who plans to attend college or a trade school following high school graduation.
PROCEDURE FOR APPLYING
(!!!! IMPORTANT, PLEASE DO ALL OF THE FOLLOWING !!!!)
(Letter of application MUST include the following) 1. Applicant’s name, applicant’s address, phone number, etc. 2. Statement explaining applicant’s relationship to the Oxford clan. 3. Statement explaining applicant’s vocational or professional goals in life, and listing the college or trade school that you plan to attend. 4. A copy of applicant’s high school transcript. 5.
The application deadline is May 1, 2001.
Applications that do not include all of the above will be ineligible Send all of the above to: Mance & Sarah Oxford Scholarship 49 Calvert Blvd. Tonawanda, NY 14150
GRADUATE STUDENT AWARDS
Oxford descendants who have been accepted, or are enrolled, in a graduate school are eligible for a one time graduate student award of $500. Deadlines for applications are the same as the above. Applicants should submit a copy of their letter of acceptance to graduate school, or a copy of their most recent grades for graduate courses. Applicants should also explain their education goals and list their major course of study.
FROM THE INTERNET (SUBMITTED BY PAM FORDHAM) Daily
Prayer
HOMEGOING SERVICES REPORTED
Mr. Almer Clay died on June 23, 2000 at Palmyra Park Hospital in Albany, Georgia. Mr. Clay was the father-in-law of Mrs. Mary Ann Clay of Sasser, Georgia. (The following was excerpted from the funeral program). Almer Clay was born on August 8, 1907 to the late Ellis and Addie Mae Clay. He attended the public schools of Terrell County, Georgia. At an early age he joined the Countyline Baptist Church in Sasser, Georgia, where he served as a faithful member. He was a retired farmer, a devoted husband and a dedicated father and grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 75 years, Tempia Johnson Clay; one brother, Willie Frank; five daughters, Susie, Marie, Ann, Ruth, and Laura; one daughter preceded him in death; five sons, Authur Lee, Willie, Sammie, Jimmy, and Almer Jr.; four sisters-in-law, Vera Clay, Lillie Ruth, Pinkie Davis and Marie Johson; four sons-in-law, Wyley Conic, Sr., Eugene, Dennis and Hiawathia; three daughters-in-law, Mary Ann, Doretha and Laura; forty-five grandchildren, sisty-three great grandchildren and thirteen great great grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. -------------------------------------------------------------------- On June 8, 2000, Willie Lee Ousley, Jr., of Sarasota, Florida was funeralized. Mr. Ousley was the cousin of Mary Ann Clay. (The following is excerpted from his funeral program). Mr. Willie Lee Ousley, Jr. (Billy) was born on September 27, 1930 in Sasser, Georgia to the late Mr. and Mrs. Willie Lee Ousley, Sr. He was a veteran of the Korean War. Mr. Ousley leaves to mourn his loving wife, Queen Ousley; seven daughters, Dorothy Fudd of Atlanta, GA, Linda Johnson, Lelia McRae, Jennifer Ousley, Penny S. Ousley, Billie Jo Thomas, Tara (Nicke) Ousley all of Sarasota, FL; two sons, Benny Johnson and Jack Ousley; two sons-in-law Corey Thomas and Clevis (C.J.) McRae all of Sarasota, FL; grandchildren, Sean, Stefan both of Atlanta, GA, Godenna, Kellie, Ashley, Anqunette, Tyler, Asia, Elexis, Devonte, Christopher, Rochelle all of Sarasota, FL; great-grandchildren, Breunna, Lasean both of Atlanta, GA, Nahryanna and Ashnel both of Sarasota; aunts Leola Ousley, Mary Ousley and Essie Mae Bronner; mother-in-law, Laura Groom; father-in-law, Wesley Johnson; six sisters-in-law; three brothers-in-law, and a host of nieces, nephews and other sorrowing relatives and friends. He was funeralized at New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, Sarasota. Interment-Palms Memorial Park. -------------------------------------------------------------------- Vera Moon Green was funeralized on Sept. 2, 2000 at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Parrott, GA. Sister Green was born in Terrell County, Georgia on July 6, 1926. [Mrs. Green was the daughter of the late Bonnie and Emmaline Moon]. She attended the public schools of Terrell County. She was united in matrimony on December 28, 1942 to the late Lemon Green, Sr, who preceded her in death on September 3, 1999. She was a faithful and dedicated member of Macedonia Baptist Church before leaving to live in Passaic, N.J.. During her residence in Passaic, she was a member of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church for over 30 years. There she served at a member of the kitchen committee and a member of the Willing Workers Club. She was president of the Willing Workers for over 20 years. She leaves one daughter, Dorothy Green of Dawson GA; two sons, Obie L. Green of Bloomfield CT, and Lemon Green, Jr., of Passaic NJ; two daughters-in-law, Denise Green of Passaic NJ and Frances Green of Bloomfield CT; one son-in-law, Lt. John H. McKinney, Jr., of Passaic NJ; four sisters, Carrie Lewis, Alma Goolsby, Beatrice Collins, and Ethel Brack all of Dawson GA; one brother, Deacon Charlie Will Moon of Dawson GA; three sisters-in-law, Pearlie Moon of Dawson, Goris Moon and Marie Moon both of Passaic NJ; one brother-in-law, James Collins of Dawson; fifteen grandchildren, seventeen great-grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Frank Bakon, Jr., was funeralized on Sept. 9, 2000 at the Pineview Baptist Church in Crawford County GA. Mr. Backon was the husband of Josie Garrett Bakon, and son-in-law of Mrs. Annie Lee Oxford. Mr. Bakon was born in Crawford County on May 2, 1944. He attended the Crawford County Training School in Roberta GA. He later attended Muscogee Area Vocational Technical School in Columbus GA to become an electrician. After moving to Mass., he attended the Boston Evening Trade School to earn his Masters Electrician'’ license. In addition to operating his own electrician business, he was a 30 year employee of the Polaroid Corp. as an electrician. Mr. Bakon was a member of the Concord Baptist Church, and was a much decorated Prince Hall Mason. He attained the Masons highest rank—"Worshipful Master." He and Josie were married in 1995. The couple lived in Dochester MA at the time of his death.
RELATIVES SEND MATERIAL
Recently, Brenda Washington, Loverture and Reggie Carter sent the funeral programs that are printed in this issue. Brenda also sent a copy of the program/pamphlet from the 132nd Anniversary of Macedonia Church (Parrott, GA). That’s the kind of support and help that we will need as we build the Oxford Archives on our WEB site. Thanks.
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
Question: In life, what is the basic difference between winners and losers? Answer: When losers get knocked down, they stay down. When winners get knocked down, they get up.
PSALM 49 (New International Version)
Hear this, all you peoples; listen, all who live in this world, both low and high, rich and poor alike: My mouth will speak words of wisdom; the utterance from my heart will give understanding. I will turn my ear to a proverb; with the harp I will expound my riddle: Why should I fear when evil days come, when wicked deceivers surround me— those who trust in their wealth and boast of their great riches? No man can redeem the life of another or give to God a ransom for him— the ransom for a life is costly, no payment is ever enough— that he should live on forever and not see decay. For all can see that wise men die; the foolish and the senseless alike perish and leave their wealth to others. Their tombs will remain their houses forever, their dwellings for endless generations, though they had named lands after themselves. But man, despite his riches, does not endure; he is like the beasts that perish. This is the fate of those who trust in themselves, and of their followers, who approve their sayings. Selah Like sheep they are destined for the grave, and death will feed on them. The upright will rule over them in the morning; their forms will decay in the grave, far from their princely mansions. But God will redeem my life from the grave; he will surely take me to himself. Selah Do not be overawed when a man grows rich, when the splendor of his house increases; for he will take nothing with him when he dies, his splendor will not descend with him. Though while he lived he counted himself blessed— and men praise you when you prosper— he will join the generation of his fathers, who will never see the light of life. A man who has riches without understanding is like the beasts that perish.
THE OXFORD FAMILY NEWSLETTER "LOOK HOW FAR THE LORD HAS BROUGHT US" July 2000 Number 46
OXFORD SCHOLARSHIP AWARDEES, 2000
This year there were seven recipients of the Mance and Sarah Oxford Scholarship Award. Five persons were high school graduates, and two of the recipients got the first two graduate student awards. All of the recipients were given a certificate and a $500 check. The awardees are listed below:
Brandon Walton is the son of Myra Walton, the grandson of Amos "Red" Walton III and Brenda Walton, and the great-grandson of Thelma "Tip" Walton. Brandon was born in Hartford, Conn., but moved to Allentown, PA when he was seven. Brandon is a 2000 graduate of William Allen High School in Allentown. He has been accepted at Temple University, Philadelphia PA. He plans to enroll there in the fall and major in Criminal Justice. He wants to become a lawyer or a court administrator. During the past year Brandon was an intern at the Lehigh County Court House. In high school Brandon was an honor student and was a member of the Allentown Academy of the Arts (a local program for promising young artists), and the Kuntztown Academic Alliance (a local program for talented high school students). He is an active member of the St. Paul Baptist Church. Brandon also reported that he holds a part-time job at K-mart to "help his mother" and save money for college. Brandon had a strong recommendation from his high school counselor.
Tasha Latrice Washington is the daughter of Brenda Darnes-Washington and the late Rayfield Washington. She is the granddaughter of Arthur Lee and Mary Ann Clay. Tasha is a 2000 graduate of Terrell Middle-High School of Dawson GA. She plans to attend the Albany Technical Institute in the fall. She reports that she loves to work with computer, and plans to major in Computer Information Systems. Tasha's two older sisters, Ravan Dorns and Arvelta Washington are both graduates of the Albany Technical Institute (both sisters are also past awardees of the Oxford Scholarship). Raven is employed with Bell South Communications in Albany, and Arvelta is a Dental Assistant. Tasha asks that the family remember her in their prayers.
Tamika Nicole Young is the daughter of Angela Bradley, the granddaughter of Vera Thomas, and the great-granddaughter of the late Arie Jackson-Fordham. Tamika is a 2000 graduate of Jones High School, Orlando FL. Tamika was a member of the high school marching band for four years. She has played the clarinet for seven years. She was a member of the girls varsity basketball team; a varsity cheerleader for two years; a member of student government, and treasurer of the junior class. Her overall high school grade point was 3.0. Tamika plans to attend Valencia Community College and major in Business Administration. Her career goal is to open her own day care center.
Brien Antonio Oxford is the son of Willie and Terry Oxford-Arnold, and the grandson of the late John L. "Jay" Oxfordand Mrs. Ethel Mae Peters-Oxford. Brien is a 2000 graduate of Terrell Middle-High School, Dawson GA. He plans to attend Fort Valley University in the fall. Brien asks that the family remember him in their prayers.
Brandon Brown is the son of Otis Oxford and Jackie Brown, and the grandson of the late Adolphus "Flick" and Annie Lee Oxford. Brandon is a 2000 graduate of Westover High School, Albany GA. He plans to attend Darton College in the fall.
GRADUATE SCHOOL AWARDEES
Kimmetrice Oxford is the daughter of Marilyn Oxford Elliott, and the granddaughter of Mrs. Annie Lee Oxford. Kim earned her B.A. Degree in Spanish and Early Childhood Education from Wheaton College, Norton MA, in May, 2000. During her undergraduate career at Wheaton, she spent a semester in Spain in the college's Study Abroad Program. She also served as an intern with the Children's Defense organization in Washington DC. Citing her "outstanding undergraduate credentials and [her] strong professional commitment", Kim was accepted into the Urban Teaching Program in the Graduate School at Wheelock College, Boston MA. Kim will begin her graduate work in the summer 2000. She is fluent in Spanish, and her stated goal "is to become a bilingual and multicultural educator" and work with Latino and Black children in the Boston Public Schools. Kim was a 1996 recipient of the Oxford Scholarship, and during her four years at Wheaton College she sent us regular progress reports on her studies at Wheaton. It is fitting that Kim is our first recipient of an Oxford Scholarship graduate student award.
Pamela Fordham is our second graduate student awardee. Pam is the daughter of Monroe and Freddie Mae Fordham, and the granddaughter of the late Arie D. Jackson-Fordham. Pam has been accepted in the Information Technology Program at the State University of New York at Buffalo. She is pursuing her second graduate degree. Pam is a high school English teacher (she has a Masters Degree in English). Pam states that computer technology and the internet revolution are changing the ways that teachers teach and the ways children learn. She feels that knowledge of the developments in information technology will help her to be a better educator. Pam is designing and will manage the Oxford family WEB site. We will report to you when the site goes up. If anyone has ideas about content for the WEB site, drop Pam a line (her e-mail address is on the list of e-mail addresses.
CONTRIBUTIONS TO OXFORD SCHOLARSHIP
Since our last newsletter, we received a contribution to the Oxford Scholarship fund from Charles and Josie Johnson. The Johnsons sent their annual contribution of $300. They also reported that our Atlanta relatives are well. Thanks to Charles and Josie.
REUNION, NOVEMBER 23, 2000 DAWSON, GEORGIA
Don’t forget to make your reservations for the Thanksgiving family reunion in Dawson. Persons from out of town are urged to make room reservations at the Ramada Limited motel in Dawson (912-995-5725). Money to cover the costs of the Thanksgiving dinner and the use of the kitchen at the Government Building in Dawson should be sent to Mckinley Bradley, P.O. Box 518, Sasser GA 31785. Each family is assessed a $10 fee to cover the rental of the building. To cover the cost of food each adult should send in $10 and $5 per child. Send in your money to Brad today, or call him and let him know that you are coming. (912-698-5875) On Thursday morning at 10 A.M. (November 23), we will assemble at Macedonia Baptist Church, in Parrott GA for a Thanksgiving devotional service. The church was founded in 1881 by our ancestors. Many of the current members are our relatives. In addition, many of our ancestors are buried in the church cemetery. Following the devotional service, we will travel about 12 miles to Dawson for the family Thanksgiving dinner. Plan to attend. Send in your reservations today.
ANDREA FORDHAM INDUCTED INTO THE NATIONAL SOCIETY OF COLLEGIATE SCHOLARS
Andrea Fordham of Apopka, Florida has been inducted into the National Society of Collegiate Scholars and will be honored during a special campus ceremony this fall at The Florida State University. Andrea is the daughter of Lawrence and Jean Fordham, and the granddaughter of the late Arie D. Fordham Jackson. She is also a 1998 recipient of the Mance and Sarah Oxford Scholarship. The National Society of Collegiate Scholars is a highly selective, national, non-profit honors society. It recognizes first and second year undergraduate students who excel academically. The Society was established on the principal that with scholarship comes a responsibility to develop leadership and a duty to perform service. "NSCS provides the opportunity for students, like Andrea, to be recognized for their outstanding academic accomplishments early in their college experience", stated Steve Loflin, NCSC Executive Director. "Andrea will also have the opportunity to join other high achieving college students in developing leadership skills and a sense of civic responsibility." Andrea is also a member of the W.E.B. DuBois Honor Society at Florida State. Dr. DuBois, an African American, was one of the most brilliant American scholars of the 20th century. Congratulations Andrea!! We are especially proud of the fact that she is a former recipient of the Mance and Sarah Oxford Scholarship.
FAMILY NEWS
L'Overture Carter reports the death of his sister-in-law, Mrs. Odie Butler of Hartford CT. Mrs. Butler died on April 25, 2000. She was born in Plains GA on March 29, 1908. She had lived in the Hartford area for many years and was retired from the Visiting Nurses Association. She was a member of Bethel AME Church in Bloomffield CT.
We received some correspondence from Mrs. Janie Dozier of Jacksonville FL (she is Annie Lee Oxford's cousin). Mrs. Dozier and her husband attended the reunion in Orlando FL. She reported that she is looking forward to attending the reunion in Dawson at Thanksgiving 2000.
Demetrius Smith and his wife Shannon W. Golphin-Smith have relocated to the suburbs of Atlanta GA. (Demetrius is the son of Cynthia Carter-Bulger, and the grandson of Reggie and Naomi Carter). Demetrius and Shannon now reside in Smyrna GA. Demetrius is the Assistant Director of Minority Student Retention Services at Kennesaw State University. Shannon is the Media Specialist for the Hieskell School in Atlanta.
Tanya Perry Teague, Daughter of Vera Fordham Thomas, has accepted a teaching position with the Atlanta Georgia Public Schools. Tanya will teach in one of Atlanta’s oldest elementary schools. Tanya was the first recipient of the Mance and Sarah Oxford Scholarship. Keep Tanya and her husband, Minister Gregory Teague, in your prayers.
OXFORD FAMILY GENEALOGY
Remember to update our genealogy data base by sending in the names of newborns. Today we have a list of over 800 names of descendants of Mance and Sarah Oxford and their relative’s families. We need to keep the database updated. Remember to send in the names of newborns. Send them to Monroe Fordham, 49 Calvert Blvd., Tonawanda NY 14150, (716-691-4257) The genealogy data base is also used to certify applicants for the Mance and Sarah Oxford Scholarship. Update your family listing today. Call Monroe Fordham (716-691-4257), or write (49 Calvert Blvd., Tonawanda NY 14150) to find out how to update.
CALVIN CARTER FAMILY RETURNS TO U.S. FROM TOUR OF DUTY IN EUROPE
Lieutenant Colonel (U.S. Army) Calvin Carter and his wife Avondale and, their children Kayla and Corlin returned to the U.S. after a six year tour of duty in Germany. Calvin will be temporarily assigned to duty in Fort Stewart Georgia. In September, he will leave his family in Butler, Ga while he deploys to Tazia, Bosnia-Herzegovina as part of the United Nation’s peacekeeping role. Calvin is a graduate of Fort Valley State College and the graduate school of Webster University (St. Louis, MO). He offers the family these words of wisdom, "As you enter the crossroads in life, continue in the direction that your heart and mind lead you." Calvin is the son of Master Sergeant (retired) Reginald and Naomi Carter of Butler GA. We will keep Calvin and his family in our prayers.
OXFORD WEB SITE UP AND RUNNING
Pam Fordham has created our family web site. The address is www.oxford9.com. At the present time the website has the entire run of the Oxford Family Newsletter (1988-2000), and the entire list of the Oxford Scholarship recipients. The newsletters are listed by year. It is now possible to access all of the back issues of the newsletter and even print them if you want to. At the opening page of the web site, simply click on the newsletter icon and then click on the year you want to see and there they are. To access the information on the Oxford Scholarship and the scholarship recipients (each with a short bio), click on the scholarship icon and scroll down the page. Shortly, there will be information on the Family Reunion, and biographical information and a picture of the nine children of Mance and Sarah. In the future Pam would like to include the addresses of other web sites that might be of interest to the family members. At the end of the home page of the Oxford web site, there is a web site e-mail address. Communicate with Pam and let her know what you would like to put on the Oxford web site—after all, this is a family site. Pam will manage and keep it up-dated, but you can help shape its content. Ideally, the site should address some of the many needs and problems that confront our family in the 21st century. Let Pam know what you think. Remember the address: www.oxford9.com.
RON BROWN SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
Demetrius Smith reports the following information on the Ron Brown Scholarship: Application Deadline: Jan. 9, 2001 Major: All areas of study Award Value: Maximum $40,000 Number of Awards: 10 The Ron Brown Scholarship is open to African-American high school seniors who are academically talented and highly motivated. Applicants should demostrate excellent academics, exceptional leadership potential, financial need and impact their communities through activities and service to others. Contact: mmallory@cstone.net www.ronbrown.org or CAP Charitable Foundation, Ron Brown Scholarship Michael A. Mallory, Exec. Director 1160 Pepsi Place, Suite 110 Charlottesville, VA 22901
FOOD FOR THOUGHT Monroe Fordham Several years ago I watched a television program on which th Rev. Dr. Billy Graham was being interviewed. It was a reflective interview. Rev. Graham was nearly 80 years old at the time, and his long career as one of the worlds most well known Christian preachers was coming to a close. For decades, Rev. Graham had led revivals and religious crusades around the world. During those revivals, hundreds of thousands of converts had stepped forward in symbolic demonstrations of their commitment to change their lives for the better. His skills as a preacher were known on every continent. He had served as a spiritual advisor to numerous U.S. Presidents. In his career, Rev. Graham had held council with heads of state, and kings and queens from many of the world’s cultures. His achievements easily rank him as one of the most notable Christian leaders of the 20th century. During the program, the interviewer raised the kinds of questions that allowed Rev. Graham to reflect and provide personal insights on many of the highlights of his life as a religious icon. The conversation between the two men was like a walk back through the mid and late decades of the 20th century. Near the conclusion of the interview there was time for one last question. One could sense that the interviewer had given some thought to his final question. "Rev. Graham, as you look back over your career, is there one thing that stands out in your mind about your life?" Rev. Graham hesitated for a moment, and gave his answer. "Yes, The brevity of it," was his reply. If only our young people could connect with that simple truth, most of their values and priorities would change dramatically. FROM THE INTERNET Submitted by Pam Fordham IF
I HAD MY LIFE TO LIVE OVER (Written
after she found out she was dying from cancer.)
THE OXFORD FAMILY NEWSLETTER
"Look How Far The Lord Has Brought Us" April 2000 Number 45
Mance and Sarah Oxford Website Pam Fordham (daughter of Monroe and Freddie Mae Fordham) has agreed to create an Oxford Family website. The website will contain; (1) historical information on Mance and Sarah Oxford; (2) the names, birth and death dates of their nine offspring; (3) pictures of Mance and Sarah Oxford and their nine offspring; (4) information about the Mance and Sarah Oxford Scholarship; (5) a copy of the latest issue (and eventually all of the back issues) of The Oxford Family Newsletter; (6) information on the next family reunion; and (7) a list of all of the E-mail addresses that have been submitted to us. The Mance and Sarah Oxford website should be up and running by June or July. We'll put the website access address in the next issue of the newsletter. Pam is pursuing a second masters degree in Information Technology. She has agreed to create and manage the website. If you have suggestions for other information that should be included in the Oxford website, drop Pam a line at 49 Calvert Blvd., Tonawanda NY 14150.
Family Reunion Update Mckinley "Brad" Bradley and Brenda Washington are chairing the family reunion committee that is planning the reunion in November. Please make a note of the following information on the reunion: DATE: Thursday, November 23, 2000 PLACE: Dawson and Parrott, GA To reduce costs per family, the official reunion activities will be scheduled for one day. Thursday morning at 10 A.M., we will assemble at Macedonia Baptist Church (Parrott), the church that was founded in 1881 by our ancestors, for a thanksgiving devotional service. At 1 P.M. we will assemble at the Government building in Dawson (about 12 miles from Parrott) for our Thanksgiving family reunion dinner. The dinner will end our official activities. Persons from out of town are urged to make reservations at the Ramada Limited, 938 Forrester Dr, Dawson GA 31742. (ph. 912-995-5725) The motel is directly across the road from the Government building in Dawson. The room rates are as follows: SUITES (4 rooms & 3 beds)-$75 per night; ONE ROOM with 3 double beds-$57 per night; ONE ROOM with 2 double beds-$57 per night; ONE ROOM with king-sized bed-$48 per night. Persons are are asked to call the motel and make their own room reservations. The motel phone number is 912-995-5725. REUNION COSTS: To cover the costs of renting the Government building and kitchen facilities, each family will be assessed a $10 fee. To cover the costs of food, each adult will be assessed $10 or bring a covered dish that will feed at least 6 people. A $5 fee will be assessed for each child under 12. Persons who plan to attend are asked to complete the attached form and submit it and the payment to cover costs to: McKinley "Brad"Bradley P.O. Box 518 Sasser GA 31785 912-698-5875 If paying by check, make checks payable to McKinley Bradley. Quiz (Submitted by Demetrius M. Smith) 1. What percentage of U.S. newspapers do not have any black reporters on staff? a. 53% b. 45% c. 33% d. 15%
2. How many poor black families, and poor white families are there in America? a. 5 million black families, over 2 million white families. b. 3 million black families, 3 million white families. c. Over 2 million black families, 5 million white families. d. 4 million black families, 5 million white families.
3. Between 1980 and 1990, in terms of the rate of increase for children born to single mothers: a. The black rate grew nine times as much as the white rate. b. The white rate grew nine times as much as the black rate. c. Both rates are increasing rapidly. d. The black rate is increasing and the white rate is decreasing.
4. What percentage of the 71,000 Americans employed as professional athletes are African-Americans? a. 60% b. 25% c. 10% d. 7%
5. In what year did Patrick Francis Healy become the president of Georgetown University, and the first African-American to head a white institution of higher learning? a. 1774 b. 1832 c. 1874 d. 1932 (answers at the bottom of page 2)
Mance & Sarah Ann Oxford Memorial Scholarship Award This is to announce that the Mance and Sarah Ann Oxford Scholarship for 2000 is now open for applications. The scholarship awards, in the amount of $500 each will be made in June, 2000. The purpose of the award is to encourage and assist high school graduates who are relatives of, or members of families related to the Oxford clan.
Eligibility Requirements 1. Applicant must be a relative of, or a member of a family related to a descendent of the Oxford clan. 2. Applicant must be a high school senior who plans to attend college or a trade school following high school graduation. Procedure for Applying (Letter of application must include the following) 1. Name, address, phone number, etc. 2. Statement explaining your relationship to the Oxford clan or related families. 3. Statement explaining your vocational or professional goals in life, and listing the college or trade school that you plan to attend. 4. A copy of your high school transcript. 5. The application deadline is May 1, 2000. Send all of the above to: Mance & Sarah Ann Oxford Scholarship 49 Calvert Blvd. Tonawanda, NY 14150 Graduate Student Awards Beginning in 2000, Oxford descendants who have been accepted, or are enrolled, in a graduate school are eligible for a one time graduate student award of $500. Deadlines for applications are the same as the above. Applicants should submit a copy of their letter of acceptance to graduate school, or a copy of their most recent grades for graduate courses. Applicants should also explain their education goals and list their major course of study.
News From Around The Circuit Deborah Allen and her husband Robert Earl Allen are the proud parents of a son, Robert Michael Allen, born on February 24, 2000. Deborah is the daughter of Vera Thomas and the granddaughter of the late Arie D. Fordham Jackson. The Allen's have one other child, a daughter--Jessica Janell Allen. The family lives in Orlando, Florida. Angela Thomas, daughter of Vera Thomas, married David Bradley on February 13, 2000. The couple lives in Orlando, Florida. Ivey Rochell Williams, a 10th grader at Orlando's Jones High School, was a member of her school's Concert Choir that went all the way to South Dakota during their annual spring break concert tour. The choir of 40 members left Orlando on March 9 and returned on March 18. The tour included engagements in Maryetta, Georgia; St. Charles, Missouri; and at Mt. Rushmore in South Dakota. The group also visited Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee. Evelyn Williams, Ivey's mother, also went along as one of 10 adult supervisors. The choir director was Mrs. Edna Hargnett, and assistant director was Ms. Darlene Coleman. Mrs. Janie J.Dozier and her husband Mr. Clarence Dozier (of Jacksonville, FLA) will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Thanksgiving day, 2000. The Doziers are descendants of the same line as the father of Razzie Smith (grandson of "Bud" Oxford--Mance Oxford's brother), and Annie Lee Oxford (wife of the late Adolphus "Flick" Oxford). The Doziers plan to celebrate their anniversary during the Oxford family reunion in November, 2000. Include news about your family in the next newsletter. Send the information to: Monroe Fordham, 49 Calvert Blvd., Tonawanda, NY 14150. or e-mail FORDHAM@BUFFALOSTATE.EDU or call 716-691-4257. Also submit inspirational poems, essays, or family anecdotes. Answers to quiz on page 1) 1.b 2.c 3.c 4.c
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