The Dream Lives On . . . in YOU!

Brittany Adamson, Amere Bates, Aninya Bates, Chavonne Christian, Chase Cline, Wayne Collins Jr., Aubrina Comer, Tyler Daniels, Cyeve Ford, JoAnn Ford, Zaria Gray, Kindra Littman, Elise McCorkle, Annette Moss, Amira Poindexter,

Laila Poindexter, Tiajma Poindexter, Tanisha Primas (Moss), Brittany Russell, Christopher Russell, Kendall Parker Shackleford, Ansley Smith, Tia Taylor, Kwynn Trammel, Janice Temple,

Metay Vinson, Rubyona Whitworth, John & Joan Williams. To you and to those whose accomplishments are unspoken, unwritten, unreported . . . CONGRATULATIONS!

Stories in this issue are also in either the July or the August Print Version. Be sure to pick up both at the 2015 Family Reunion.

The Hansie Solomon, Ford-Bryson Family Newsletter - July/August, 2015 News to inform, promote, inspire, and encourage the greatness within each of us

“Building a legacy today for generations yet unborn”

On-line at www.familyaffairnews.blogspot.com

The Family Affair is prepared and distributed as a public service. For additional information contact Henry Ford at successisyou@yahoo.com or 216-348-4612

Congratulations to Chavonne Christian Chavonne is a student ambassador, member of the poetry slam club, a journalist for the Cauldron Literary magazine, member of National Honors and member of the bowling team. A senior at Cleveland Central Catholic High School, and 7th in her graduating class, she

will walk across the stage with her cousin Tyler Daniels. Chavonne will attend John Carroll University with a double major in psychology and English. Chavonne is the daughter of Cerita Christian, Granddaughter of the late Larry "Butch" Middlebrooks, and Great Granddaughter of Harvey & Ella Pearl Williams. A big Thank You to Chavonne’s aunt Barbara Bennett, who made me aware of Chavonne’s accomplishments and supplied photos.

Congratulations to Tyler Daniels on his graduation from Cleveland Central Catholic High School Class of 2015. THANK YOU Natasha Daniels for shar ing these photos and the accomplishments of this fine young man. THANK YOU Natasha Daniels, Barbara Bennett, and Tyler’s “Village” (you know who you are!) for your very active role in setting standards to be lived up to, and for your compassionate love, caring, direction and support. Publisher’s Note: Consider ing the academic success of these two young people and their family relationships and support, it is difficult to ignore the influence of “The Village.” Thank you to all who helped them achieve in spite of the challenges! Congratulations to Cyeve Ford on completing his 1st Year at Shawnee State University where he is majoring in Marketing. Cyeve is the son of Rachel Longstreet and Henry Lawrence Ford.

Throughout history, it has been the inaction of those who could have acted; the indifference of those who should have known better; the silence of the voice of justice when it mattered most;

that has made it possible for evil to triumph.

Haile Selassie - Former Emperor of Ethiopia

On-line at www.familyaffairnews.blogspot.com - Page 2 -

Congratulations to Brittany Adamson who recently obtained her degree in Nursing. Brittany is the daughter of Cassandra Adamson and Henry Lawrence Ford.

Surrounded by family and friends at Ohio State University’s Mershon Auditorium, Brittany received a portion of the reward for her hard work and dedication. The rest of the reward will come as a bright future for this personable young lady who is following her

dream, and giving hope to others. Calling Brittany a strong role model is an understatement. Brittany’s achievements actually “Lit up” the Facebook Timelines of her and many of her relatives and friends. It comes as no surprise that one of the most moving tributes was from her mom, Cassandra Adamson who wrote these words, and in true Adamson spirit, gave me the go-ahead to share them here: “Today is one of the happiest days of my life. My daughter has completed her dream of becoming a nurse. Since the 9th grade she has always told me that she wanted to become a nurse (pediatric). When the devil see that you are focused on a goal he will step in to do anything possible to stop you; from financial problems, car problems to death. It was days when I wanted to ask her if it's something else she would like to major in but when I witnessed her up late night studying frustrated test after test and get back up at it again there was no way I could kill that dream. All I could do was continue to pray for her. Let us not grow weary of doing good for in due season we will reap if we do not give up. So here's to you Brittany; God has answered our prayers. Congratulations beautiful you deserve everything that life has to offer.“ Mom has said it all. After those words and the heartfelt emotions within the lines, there is nothing left to add except Congratulations Brittany. Know that you have our prayers and best wishes for the future you have worked for and deserve.

Congratulations to Brittany Russell (also known as Brittane) Brittany no stranger to achievement and good citizenship. From taking college pre-med courses while still in high school to making a difference at her school and in the community, Brittany maintains high standards and set new ones. Her love of people influenced her to change her major to Special Education where she is achieving equally well.

Brittany does not let brainpower or willpower impact her personality. She is cheerful, outgoing with a compassionate heart toward others. Congratulations Brittany, for being named Ambassador of the Year by The University of West Georgia, and for keeping it real, and making us all proud. Brittany is the daughter of Charli Russell and Henry Lawrence Ford. Congratulations to Christopher Russell Taken from his own words . . . “Recently I decided to dedicate a year of my life to community service. I applied to FEMA Corp and they officially accepted me. They are flying me to Baltimore, Maryland, where I will be training with NCCC and FEMA. We will be working in disaster response and recovery in the Atlantic region for 10 months. It's a huge sacrifice but it's better to give than to receive. Wish me luck.” Prayers and Best Wishes to this fine young man. Christopher is the son of Charli Russell and Henry Lawrence Ford.

Photo Courtesy of Quentin Adamson

Those who are lifting the world upward and onward are those who encourage more than criticize.

Elizabeth Harrison - 1849-1927, Educator

Janice Temple announces her engagement to Mr. Alvin Torrance. Their wedding is set for September 19, 2015 in Atlanta, GA. Congratulations to all and a Big Thank You to Latasha Temple for sharing this information with us.

Congratulations to Wayne McArthur Collins Jr. on his recent graduation from Wylie E. Groves High School. Wayne is the son of Wayne Sr. and Jordonna Collins, who shared these inspiring words . . . “From boy to man, here you stand. We are honored by the accomplishment of our son.”

Tameica Vinson, proudly announces the graduation of her daughter, Aubrina Comer, from Millard North High School in Omaha, NE. Aubrina is the granddaughter of Valerie Vinson, great granddaughter of William and Gwen Vinson, and great great granddaughter of the late Willie and Sara Vinson. Aubrina will be attending the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, MO in the fall of 2015. She has been awarded several scholarships and grants including the UCM Go Red Grant, Millard Public School Foundation Scholarship, and the William Cody Elementary School PTA Scholarship. Aubrina’s major will be Education. Aubrina will be studying towards becoming an excellent Elementary Educator and would like to teach Kindergarten once she has obtained her degree.

Ken and Latasha Shackleford (Atlanta, GA) announce the birth of their second daughter, Kendall Parker Shackleford on December 8, 2014.

Tanisha Primas (Moss) graduated from Fort Valley State University with her Master's degree in mental health counseling in December 2014. She also married Mr. Nicholas Primas on July 12, 2014. Annette Moss retir ed fr om Creekside Elementary School after 30 years of teaching.

On-line at www.familyaffairnews.blogspot.com - Page 3 -

Henry & Dianne Ford recently visited the Washington, DC and Maryland area. A big thank you to John & Joan Williams for their usual fantastic hospitality during our travels. They treated us like royalty as they always do.

On-line at www.familyaffairnews.blogspot.com - Page 4 -

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION by Danna Smith

Chase Cline, Son of Janet Der r -Littman and the late Keith Littman, has completed his High School Education at the Hargrave Military Academy, Chatham, VA. During his time at the Military Academy, Chase served as Manager of the basketball team and he was a key member of the football and track teams. Chase also served in many leadership and mentoring roles for the incoming freshmen and transfer students, helping them to adapt to life at the Military Academy. Chase will continue his post high school studies at Catawba Valley Technical College, Hickory. He is the Grandson of Margaret Littman, Iron Station, NC and the Great Grandson of the late Mattie Vinson. RETURNING TO SCHOOL by Danna Smith Kindra Littman, daughter of Margaret Littman, has been accepted into the Master of Nursing program at Winston Salem State University, Winston Salem, NC. Kindra plans to pursue a career as a Nurse Practitioner. She currently holds her BS in Nursing and has worked as an ER Nurse for many years. Kindra will begin her graduate studies in August 2015. An avid promoter of healthy living, Kindra also successfully completed her first half marathon (13 miles) in April 2015 in the Biltmore Estate’s Half Marathon. Kindra is the sister of the late Keith Littman and the granddaughter of the late Mattie Vinson.

COLLEGE GRADUATIONS by Danna Smith Rubyona (Ana) Whitworth completed her studies in Community Health by earning a Bachelor of Science Degree from Lenoir Rhyne University, Hickory, NC in December 2014. During her time there, she was a member of the Lenoir Rhyne Bears Cheerleading Team. Ana is taking some time to gain work experience while preparing for graduate school. She plans to pursue a Master’s Degree in Health Administration. Ana’s proud guardian is Glenda Vinson, Iron Station, NC. Ana is the daughter of the late Debbie Whitworth, granddaughter of the late Ruby and Ardell Whitworth and the great-granddaughter of the late Mattie Vinson. Ansley Smith is a 2015 graduate of Woffor d College, Spartanburg, SC. She earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry with a minor in Mathematics. While at Wofford, Ansley served as a Student Ambassador and a mentor for incoming freshmen students. She was also a member of the Wofford Terrier Dance team where she served as Captain and lead choreographer her senior year. Ansley will be returning to school in August 2015 at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC where she will be pursuing her Doctor of Pharmacy Degree. Ansley is the daughter of Danna and McCoy Smith of Fort Mill, SC. She is the granddaughter of Sarah Vinson of Iron Station, NC and the great granddaughter of the late Mattie Vinson.

Consortium of African American Organizations

www.caao.net Eagles of Success International

www.eagles-of-success.blogspot.com

People of Distinction Humanitarian Awards

www.peopleofdistinction.org

World Kindness Liberia www.worldkindnessliberia.org

On-line at www.familyaffairnews.blogspot.com - Page 5 -

To the Family: HAPPY 42nd FAMILY REUNION From the son, grandchildren and a great granddaughter of Henry Ford

LITTLE ONE’S ACCOMPLISHMENTS by Danna Smith

Amere Bates, was named Apr il 2015 Terrific Kid for his Preschool. His big Sister, Aninya, was named Student Athlete for her excellent achievements in Physical Education. Their proud mother is Imari Littman, Lincolnton, NC. They are the grandchildren of Janet Derr-Littman and the late Keith Littman, the Great grandchildren of Margaret Littman and the great-great grandchildren of the late Mattie Vinson.

Aninya and Amere above left with Margaret Littman

Congratulations to Metay Vinson, Daughter of Willie Vinson, Granddaughter of William & Gwen Vinson of Omaha Nebraska. Great granddaughter of the late Willie & Sarah Vinson. Metay is a recent graduate from Omaha North High School where she has already received her certification to be a CNA. Metay will attend Iowa western community college to obtain a nursing degree and plans to run track. Extremely qualified and proven, Metay lettered in varsity track and field four times, and twice in volleyball. She was declared the 2nd fastest young lady in the state of Nebraska in 2014.

Congratulations to the Family from . . .

On-line at www.familyaffairnews.blogspot.com - Page 6 -

SURPRISE and CONGRATULATIONS! JoAnn Ford is known for always being “on top” of everything, but recently “fell victim” to daughter Bonita “Bonnie” Pratt’s ability to plan and execute. To help celebrate JoAnn’s 70th Birthday, nearly fifty people came quietly and secretly from Ohio, Florida, North Carolina, Nevada, California, Maryland, Virginia and Washington, DC. They gathered at the historic Billingsley House in Upper Marlboro, Maryland.

Guests who arrived extra early for the event were able to tour the stately mansion, read about its history and enjoy spectacular views of the grounds. The evening featured excellent food, music and company as guests mingled and in some cases reunited for the first time in many, many years.

Tears of joy flowed along with the gratitude of the celebration, as guests and the guest of honor partied, partied, partied. Dianne and I took advantage of being in the area by spending an extra day visiting family and friends. Its was truly a weekend to be remembered and cherished.

To view the complete Photo Slide Show and Video Clips from JoAnn’s Party, visit her Blog at www.joannford1.blogspot.com.

Kwynn Trammel, daughter of Dr . Kimber ly Taylor has been accepted into Howard University. She is a recent graduate of Cleveland Heights High School’s Mosaic School of Fine & Performing Arts.

Tia Taylor, daughter of Thomas Taylor r ecently returned from a 10 Day trip to Johannesburg, South Africa. We are grateful that Tia was able to travel and experience the culture of South Africa. Beyond the excitement of her travels, the trip will certainly be life-enhancing in many ways.

Congratulations to Kwynn and Tia. Both are granddaughters of Margaret Ford-Taylor. A Big Thank You to Terri L. Taylor for sharing information and photos on this page.

You don't choose your family. They are God's gift to you,

as you are to them.

Archbishop Desmond Tutu

NEWS from Terri L. Taylor

On-line at www.familyaffairnews.blogspot.com - Page 7 -

GOOD NEWS from

FACEBOOK!

Congratulations Zaria Gray!

Ebony Custer Gray has good reason to share the message below. In her own words (borrowed from her Facebook posting), she comments, “Thank you God for your continued blessings! My baby Zaria did her “thang” y'all! She received awards for highest class average in Science, excellence in Art, best all around Math student, Honor roll for the entire year and might I add she has been on A and A/B honor roll all year every year 6-8th grade, Camp Med acceptance award, and VPAC early college acceptance award!!!! Can't believe she's on her way to high school. I am overjoyed! Please continue to pray for my girls to stay on the path of greatness.” One of Ebony’s Facebook Friends Elizabeth Baucum responded “You go girl. Congratulations to all. I see generations mom, Grandma & great Grand hanging and looking good. Now that's family working together.” Hmm, “family working together.” What a great idea!

PRIDE TIMES

THREE!

What could make someone more proud than a celebration for one grandchild? Well, two would be twice as nice, but proud grandpa Arthur Hunt believes in celebrating in a big way, so here they are; granddaughter Laila’s graduation from kindergar ten at age five, Amira’s 12th birthday, and Tiajma’s graduation fr om Enloe High school in Raleigh, North Carolina. For “frosting” on that “cake,” Tiajma’s graduating class of 630 students were awarded scholarships valued at 15 million dollars. Tiajma has been awarded The Capstone Scholarship from Howard University where she will be studying Legal Communication and also received the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Chi Rho Omega, Chapter, Crystal Creech Shepherd Memorial Scholarship. Mark and Eboni Poindexter are the proud parents of these three great girls. Grandpa Arthur states it best; “What a blessing to get a good education. God bless them all.” A big thank you to all who have helped these fine young ladies achieve, including Arthur’s wife Doris who must have been busy taking this photo.

Get Connected!

As family members seek to maintain and strengthen connections to one another, the Internet remains a powerful tool. I use both Facebook and the Family E-Mail List to share news including reunion announcements. Facebook allows you to see updates on the Family Group Page, and also interact with others privately. Our Family Email List allows you to receive announcements that I send to the family. You may choose either or both to get connected.

Where to Find . . .

- Family Blog/Web Site -

- Family Facebook Group -

- Family Newsletters -

- Family E-Mail List Signup -

Elise McCorkle completed her elementary education at Blackburn Elementary School. She received an award for maintaining "A's" in every class for the entire year. Elise also plays soccer and enjoys spending time with her friends and cousins. She will be starting middle school in August at Jacobs Fork Middle School. Elise is the Daughter of Rashawn and Kendra McCorkle of Newton, NC; the Granddaughter of Mary and Alfred McCorkle of Hickory, NC and the Great-granddaughter of the late Mattie Vinson. Thanks to Danna Smith McCoy for sharing this with us.

Congratulations to all who are featured in this issue, and to those who encouraged or assisted them in their accomplishments. Congratulations also to those who are not mentioned. Some choose to keep their journeys and their achievements quiet. Whether you are celebrated here is much less important than you remembering to always celebrate yourself. As you reach for your goals, I urge you to remain committed to the ideals that brought you to this point and seek an even higher calling. Continue to seek knowledge and extend compassion. Please keep in mind that . . .

"We each have a calling that if left unanswered

will become a challenge unmet, a problem unsolved,

an opportunity missed, a dream and a legacy unfulfilled,

a link missing in the chain of events

that were meant to form the history of the world."

Thank you to the Dallas Chapter for hosting the 42nd Annual Family Reunion On behalf of the family, please know that your efforts to continue this strong and proud tradition are greatly appreciated. Through this newsletter I am honored to have shared a few of the accomplishments of this great family.

Henry Ford Author, Speaker, Consultant, Publisher

www.successisyou.org

successisyou@yahoo.com

On-line at www.familyaffairnews.blogspot.com - Page 8 -

In every conceivable manner, the family is link to our past, bridge to our future.

Alex Haley

Because we received several stories after the July edition of The Family Affair was printed,

we also printed an August issue. The content of both

issues are included in this on-line and PDF version. If you

see this posting before leaving the reunion, be sure to pick up

both printed copies.