[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 152 (2006), Part 12]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 16101]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



[[Page 16101]]

                          EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS

     RECOGNIZING THE 2006 TENNESSEE STATE GOSPEL SINGING CONVENTION

                            HON. BART GORDON

                              of tennessee

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 26, 2006

  Mr. GORDON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 2006 Tennessee 
State Gospel Singing Convention. For 72 years, this convention has been 
celebrating the State's rich gospel singing tradition. This year, the 
two-day event will be held in Carthage, TN, which I am proud to 
represent in this esteemed body.
  This statewide convention began in 1934 with the goal of honoring 
Tennessee's historical roots in the gospel movement. By building on 
traditions of county music festivals, the convention drew a crowd of 
more than 6,000 people just 4 years later.
  Since then, the festival has drawn several noted performers from 
across Tennessee and surrounding States. Along with quality 
entertainment, the convention also boasts a string of acclaimed 
leaders, including Sergeant Alvin C. York, who once served as vice 
president of the convention.
  Today, the Tennessee State Gospel Singing Convention draws hundreds 
of people and continues to honor the tradition of gospel music in 
Tennessee. I am sure this year's convention will be a wonderful event 
and I commend all involved for their commitment to preserving Tennessee 
culture.

                          ____________________