The Banquet that was held on Saturday, May 10, 2003 can only be described as “awesome.”  The Keynote Speaker, Elder Barry S. Mitchell[1], of Bibleway Northeast Temple, gave the audience a trip down memory lane regarding South Carolina’s contribution to gospel music and he certainly had a word from the Lord.  Praises, upon praises, upon praises, were sent up to our Lord and Savoir.  The Holy Spirit was certainly present.  The audience was treated to the music of Brothers and Sisters of Willacoochee, Georgia featuring Elder Troy Jackson, and Bill Pinkney and The Gospel Drifters. 

Those supporting this weekend’s events came from around the country, such as Ann Jackson of Brunswick, Georgia, Clarence Conner of The Gospel Incredibles of Atlanta, Georgia, Carolyn Roberts from New York, Minister and Mrs. Wayne Dandridge from Ohio, Minister George Stewart and Dr. Jackie Stewart from Alabama, and Michael McAlister of Chicago.

Of course, everyone was on pins and needles waiting for the awards presentation.  Nero “Mr. Gospel” Tindal received special recognition for being selected by the American Gospel Quartet Convention as one of the eleven cornerstones from across the country in Gospel Music.  Reverend Jesse Gilmore received the O. E. Martin Award, the highest award presented, for being a pioneer in gospel music.  A special award was also presented to Minister and Dr. Stewart for their dedication to the preservation of gospel quartet music. 

And now the winners in the various categories –