The sixth annual Singing for the Soldiers will be held on Memorial Day evening, May 26 at the Columbus Veterans park in downtown Columbus, across from the fire department at the corner of Ward and Gibson St.
The event collects care package items for troops overseas as well as raising money through food sales for shipping costs and the purchase of additional items to remind troops that the folks back home care.
Music at the event includes southern gospel music legend Archie Watkins, a member of the Southern Gospel Music Hall of Fame whose voice was heard on countless legendary gospel songs for decades as the tenor singer for the Inspirations Quartet.
Two bluegrass groups will also be performing.  The Watkins family from Georgia who have countless national hits and accolades; including being inducted in the Georgia Music Hall of Fame.
Special Guest fiddler player Randall Franks will also perform with the Watkins family.  Franks starred in the hit TV series “In the Heat of the Night” featuring Carroll o Connor.  Franks starred as officer Randy Goode in the TV show.
Colt Creek Bluegrass from Saluda will also be performing as will the southern gospel group Soul Vision who recently had their first two national hit songs on the National Singing News Southern Gospel Charts.
Food on the menu includes grilled hot dogs, roasted corn on the cob, desserts, drinks, beans and chips. Food sales begin at 5 p.m.
Any size monetary donation will be accepted or attendees may bring a bag of toiletries personal items snacks, CDs, battery’s, sunglasses, lotions etc. to send to the troops for the mission.
A special Memorial Day ceremony will be held featuring the Polk County Honor Guard at 6 p.m. to honor Polk County’s sacrifices.
In case of rain event will be held inside the fire department.
For more info call 828-817-3722 or 828-749-3347.
– article submitted
by James Metcalf