First of all, a brief apology is offered for not posting on my normal day of Tuesday. We're facing a mass of deadlines on several different projects this week and to be point-blank honest, I just didn't get around to it.

Today, I'd like to direct your attention to one of Southern Gospel music's unsung heroes. Many of you have probably attended the Greenland Park Sing (East Tennessee area) at some point in your life. After all, it's only been going on for 35 years. I remember a time when groups eagerly tried to get on the bill and not just for the opportunity to touch lives. Being on the Greenland Sing meant huge - no, make that HUGE - record sales. Back in the 1980s and early 1990s, especially when Eddie Crook had the careers of such groups as the McKameys, Spencers, Singing Cookes, Bishops, Wilburns (and others) in ultra-high gear, artists couldn't open product boxes fast enough. Jerry Kirksey has told me on more than one occasion there were hundreds and hundreds of people who were introduced to Singing News for the first time because the promoter opened the doors for him.

But sales weren't just the only benefit of being on the Greenland Sing. Many groups found out that they could book dozens of fine dates while there because out in the audience were many other concert promoters and church leaders.

And, just so no one misunderstands, there were indeed many, many lives changed because of an artist's appearance there.

The year 2006 marks the 36th edition of the Greenland Park Sing (September 7-9) - and it also brings down the curtain on the event. Promoter James Lane says the time is right to retire the event.

Doing anything for 36 years on a regular basis is an achievement worth recognizing. And if that achievement has been something that has benefited many others as well, then it's doubly worth recognizing. So, James, on behalf of everyone who has ever been a part of the Greenland Park Sing, congratulations on your retirment - and more importantly...

Thank you.