Fans packed all 400 seats of the Ontario Nazarene Church for seven hours on Saturday, May 19 2007 to celebrate the past, present and future of Southern Gospel Music in Southern California.  The Western States Gospel Music Association (WSGMA) presented the annual Spring Sing and Talent Showcase, and this year's offering was one of the best in recent memory.

 The Everett Evans Memorial Talent Showcase returned this year, and four excellent groups and four soloists – from Santee to Sacramento – participated.  All performances were met with an enthusiastic audience response.  Solid Ground – a new male trio from Sacramento - was recognized as 'favorite group', and Rain Jones was recognized as 'favorite soloist'.

Showcase 'Favorite Group' - Solid Ground

Showcase 'Favorite Soloist' - Rain Jones

All eleven WSGMA groups performed during the main concert, and each group presented professional and thoroughly enjoyable sets.  Reverend Dick Hilleary served as master of ceremonies and delighted the audience with his humorous and thought-provoking poems and messages between groups.  The theme of the concert was "Remembering Our Heritage".  Throughout the afternoon, individuals who were instrumental in bringing gospel music to the west coast were recognized for their contributions.  An especially touching moment was when the 93-year old SGMA hall of fame member Bob Jones Sr. rose from his wheelchair to a standing ovation. 

The highlight of the afternoon was a reunion of the Peck Sisters (also known as "The Sunshine Sisters").  Judy Peck Nelon came all the way from Nashville to join her sisters Sharon and Linda on stage.  After singing a few songs and sharing their stories, Ms. Lillie Knauls and Jerry Roark joined them and led the audience in an enthusiastic rendition of "Oh Happy Day".

 The event closed in the traditional convention-style sing with all WSGMA members and guests on stage.  The next WSGMA concert will be held on Labor Day at the Turlock Community Auditorium.

Photos of the 2007 Spring Sing (Courtesy of Lorene Roark)

Video clips from the 2007 Spring Sing (Courtesy of Peggy Wimberly)