MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE

2001 Regular Session

To: Rules

By: Representative Broomfield, Fredericks, Hamilton, Read, Wells-Smith, Young

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING MRS. EARNESTINE ELLIS FOUNTAIN FOR HER MANY YEARS OF OUTSTANDING COMMUNITY AND PUBLIC SERVICE.

WHEREAS, Mrs. Earnestine Ellis Fountain takes pride in helping the people of her community by giving generously of her time and hard work; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Fountain earned a bachelor's degree from Jackson State University, a master's degree from Tuskegee University and has studied at New York University, Hampton University, University of South Alabama and the University of Southern Mississippi; and

WHEREAS, having received her teacher's license at age 17, Mrs. Fountain taught school for over 40 years and instituted an adult learning class, where she taught parents to read; and

WHEREAS, in addition to teaching, Mrs. Fountain was an elementary school principal for 20 years and was instrumental in the desegregation of public schools in Jackson County; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Fountain has impacted the lives of many people through her involvement in many organizations including United Way, Jackson County Mental Health Association, March of Dimes, Our Daily Bread, Jackson County Kidney Foundation, National Association of Educators, Red Cross, Eastern Star, the National Council of Negro Women and many more; and

WHEREAS, Mrs. Fountain has received numerous awards for her outstanding service including the Harriet Tubman Award from the Magnolia Bar Association, Inc., a special award from the Boys and Girls Club of Jackson County and an award for service from Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to recognize and commend outstanding Mississippians such as Mrs. Fountain, whose dedication, determination and selfless acts have improved the quality of life of citizens in this state:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend Mrs. Earnestine Ellis Fountain for her many years of outstanding community and public service and express our deepest appreciation for her tireless devotion to the people of this state.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Mrs. Earnestine Ellis Fountain and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.