Root Magazine - GMWA - 45th Annual Edition by Publication Printer

1 ISSUE 12

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Greetings from the Chairman of the Board To Our Delegates, Grace be unto you and peace, from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ. It is with the greatest pleasure to be able to officially welcome each of you to the 45th Annual Convention of the Gospel Music Workshop of America, Inc., where the legacy of Reverend James Cleveland is alive and well! More than four decades ago, he dreamed of uniting Gospel artists and musicians to raise Gospel music to a level of national and international recognition. His dream tool roots in the hearts and spirits of like-minded musicians and artists from across the world. So here we are, some 45 years later, the manifestation and on-going reality of that dream. He would have celebrated his 80th birthday on December 5, 2011. As we assemble here this week for this convention, from the various parts of our nation, we must recognize and give God all of the praise & glory for allowing us to once again convene here in Nashville, Tennessee. We lift our voices thanking Him for His Favor and traveling mercies. We know that it is only because of His Grace and Mercy that He has kept us another year. We are looking forward to a great spirit-filled week and we encourage everyone to press toward the mark of the higher calling which is in Christ Jesus. Much thought, prayer and planning have gone into preparation for this week’s convention. Our special accolades to Ms. Tammy Taylor, Chapter Representative and the Music Chapter of Nashville for helping to make this week possible. I would also like to thank the Board of Directors, Auxiliary Leaders and Chapter Representatives for your continued support. Thanks to the Chairman’s staff for a superb job. Thanks to my church family, Pleasant Grove Tabernacle, for fasting, praying and supporting me in all my works. Finally, to my lovely wife Lady Dianette, my sons Jourdan Allen and Joshua Jermelle, thank you for all of your love and understanding. Until then, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know you labour is not in vain in the Lord.” I Corinthians 15:58 Bishop Albert L. Jamison, Sr. Chairman, Board of Directors, GMWA, Inc.

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MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Message From The Director Of Operations

W elcome to all of you to the 45

Annual Convention of the Gospel

Music Workshop of America, Inc. God has blessed us and continues to show favor. We are honored to be able to return to Nashville, Tennessee. As we reflect over these forty-five years, it’s rewarding and encouraging to see how God has wondrously blessed this organization from its humble beginnings to the world’s largest and greatest gospel music convention. We will always remember and honor our founder, Rev. James Cleveland who would have celebrated his 80th birthday on December 5, 2011. G.M.W.A. is blessed to have your dedication and commitment. Special thanks to each of you for your faithfulness and support of our convention. Our continued success would not be possible without you. I’m encouraging each of you to get involved and be active members to receive the best experience that our convention has to offer by attending your classes, auxiliary meetings and nightly sessions. Much prayer, preparation and planning is in place for your disposal and utilization for this week’s convention. We extend special thanks to Ms. Tammy Taylor, Chapter Representative, and the Music City chapter members, assisting, to make this a memorable and rewarding week. MAY GOD CONTINUE TO BLESS EACH OF YOU, Rodena Preston 8

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The Board of Directors, Officers and Members of GMWA invite to you to join in the celebration of the legacy of the GMWA with 5-years of celebratory events, musical concerts, and year-round festivities leading up to the 50th Year Anniversary… 2017.

"he GMWA is a non-profit, interdenominational, interracial, international and voluntary association of gospel singers and musicians. Mission: To preserve the heritage of gospel music in America, while providing a forum for the development of excellence in the presentation of gospel music. Further, to increase opportunities for the perpetuation of Gospel music throughout other industries, arenas and the world. The GMWA includes ministers, educators, business professionals, singers and University-College-Seminary academic partnerships. They are joined together for continuing education, cooperation and communication of ideas for the advancement of sacred and gospel music as African-American and International sacred music art styles and forms of music. For the next 4 years the 50th Anniversary Committee will spearhead major events throughout the GMWA Board Meetings and Summer Conventions. ! We solicit your support in deeds, services and operating expense to make “2017” a gala jubilee celebration. You may register by sending your info to 50anniversary@gmwanational.org or visiting gmwanational.org and look for the 50th Anniversary info. Get ready for 4 years of festivities leading to our climatic celebration in the year 2017! Register yourself today!

Marsha T. DuPont

Dennis Cole

Anniversary Chairperson

Anniversary Co-Chairperson

Dr. William Barksdale

Jerry L. Davis

Dr. Sylvester Starkes

Audrey Howard-Harris

Dr. Albert Lemons

Curtis McZee

Wilmer Ham McZee

Bishop Brian Moore

Carla Poindexter

Juanita Suggs

A B T J E E Z D

You may make a tax deductible donation in commemoration of 50 years of service to the world. Donations are being accepted NOW!! All contributions will be posted on our National website. For More Information Contact us at: 50anniversary@gmwanational.org

Immediate questions and concerns please contact: Dennis Cole/773-445-9104 or Dr. Sylvester K. Starkes/757-406-3999 Donations should be sent to: The Office of the Treasurer/GMWA – Dr. Floyd Miles, PO Box 2920 – Chesterfield, VA 23832

Marsha T. DuPont , Anniversary Chairperson

Bishop Albert L. Jamison, Sr., Chairman of the Board

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Bishop Albert L. Jamison Sr.

Keeping the Family Alive and Taking gmwa to the Next Level By Hasan James Photography By Alonzo Boldin Clothing Provided by Nike Air Jordan and Tory Burch

Bishop Albert L. Jamison has been Chairman of the G.M.W.A. for the past 16 years and has continued to make it one of the premier conferences in the gospel arena. In this, his last term as Chairman, Bishop Jamison talks about the direction of gospel music, his last term as chairman, gay marriage and most of all what’s most important to him, family. Root: The theme of G.M.W.A. this year is “Unifying The Family Through Gospel Music”. Why is that important? Bishop Jamison: It’s important because there is a great attack on the family. As African Americans, we always had our family. Even if we did not have a lot of money, friends, homes and cars, the family was always there. I believe that there is an attack on the body of Christ as it pertains to family. I know that we can praise God under any circumstance but it is much easier to praise him when the family is intact. When I look at many gospel preachers and singers across the country, they appear to be one way on stage and another way off the stage. As an African American man, husband, father and preacher, it scares me sometimes because there is such an in-balance in the family. When you look at the book of Genesis, you see that God had a family before he had a church. The truth of the matter is, you have to fight for the family just as hard as you fight for anything else. There is a lot of temptation out there but you must be focused on building the family and keeping the family together. As for me, I not only love my wife but I like my wife as a person and that’s important. Root: In the black church especially, divorce seems to be on the rise, which causes a breakdown of the family unit. What are some things you do to keep your family unit together? Bishop Jamison: You have to spend time with them. You have to make time for a vacation. I had to preach last week in Philadelphia and I took my sons with me and this man was outside of the hotel selling something and he stopped me as I was walking. So of course I had this look on my face like I didn’t want to be bothered. Finally I stopped and he said “Excuse me but I have been watching you and your boys for the past 20 minutes and you don’t know how it makes me feel to see a black man and his two black boys”. After he said that I really had to repent because initially I took offense to this man asking me a question when he was just happy to see a black man with his sons. On Father’s Day we were going to go to Outback Steak House for dinner and my youngest son said that he did not want to go there so I asked him where he wanted to go and he pointed to the White Castle across the street (Laughter). So we ate White Castle on Father’s Day. It just proves that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to spend quality time with your family. You don’t just have to make time but you have to take time. Root: G.M.W.A. is celebrating its 45th year and over the years the conference helped launch the careers of so many artists. In your last term as Chairman, what

are your plans on keeping G.M.W.A. relevant for years to come? Bishop Jamison: Keeping a firm foundation! If the foundation is firm, then you can build upon it. That is what Jesus was saying to the disciples because before you do anything, you must count the cost. After you count the cost, you have to make sure the foundation is strong. The foundation of G.M.W.A. was strong when I became the Chairman because those who served before me set it in place. I was 18 years- old when I became a chapter representative under Rev. James Cleveland and I was the youngest chapter rep at the time and I learned a lot. I did not join G.M.W.A. in hopes of one day becoming the Chairman because I thought that James Cleveland would be around forever. I joined because I wanted to be a servant. So many people join because they want to be “The Greatest”. What I’ve learned is that people must have leadership qualities in them in order to serve. When I was 10 years old, I was president over the junior usher board, so my leadership abilities started there. If it is God’s will, this December I will be celebrating 30 years as pastor. I have been leading in the gospel arena since 1974; therefore I am not a novice. I am currently in my fifth term as Chairman of G.M.W.A. so not only am I in authority but I am under authority as well. I am in authority at Pleasant Grove Tabernacle and G.M.W.A. and under authority at Full Gospel. People know that Bishop Paul Sylvester Morton is my leader. Root: What are some of your fondest memories of Rev. James Cleveland? Bishop Jamison: He was one of the best cooks around! We would go to Pathmark at 12 midnight after a service so that we would have food for the next day. When it came to soul food, nobody had anything on James Cleveland! The last couple of times he spent in New York before he passed, he would come in a few days early and stay later and if you had a nice home, that’s where he stayed because he didn’t like hotels. I enjoyed the times when he would just talk and pour his heart out and tell me where he thought the workshop was headed. He would say, “Jamison, when I am gone, I want you to make sure everything is good.” I thought he was telling me this because I was on the Board of Directors but I guess he was setting me up for something bigger without me even realizing it. I would ask the Reverend why he would not elevate certain people and he would say, “Some people are good performers but they are not good leaders.” So many people put on a performance on the pulpit but when they leave the pulpit, they forget who they were. The bottom line is, “Don’t let your gift take you where your character can’t keep you.” Root: What are your thoughts on the direction gospel music is going in? Bishop Jamison: I think it’s both positive and negative. The bible states that “In the last days we must carry the gospel to every corner of the earth” (Matthew 24:14) and although

The Jamison Family from left to right - Joshua, Bishop Albert Jamison, Jourdan and Lady Dianette Jamison

technology is great, too much of anything can be negative. On the flip side, someone said they was sitting in a club one day and they heard my song “Show Yourself Mighty” playing in the club and they got upset and asked me how I felt about it and I said “Thank God for music because my songs will go places I will never go.” That person was probably offended because it convicted them but another person may hear it and it will help them. Root: Over the past month or so, there has been a lot of controversy regarding the president supporting same sex marriage. What are your thoughts on that? Bishop Jamison: Last year, a news station interviewed me and they asked me if I believed in a homosexual church. My response to them is the same as it is now, I don’t believe in an adulterer church, I don’t believe in a drunken church nor do I believe in a homosexual church. I believe in the church according to the book of Matthew (16:18) “Upon this rock I build my church.” But in the same token, we must be realistic as to what the church is supposed to do. The church is supposed to draw every kind of person so that they can find the help that they need. Although I am against what the president said, I am still for the president. Most pastors hit the pulpit that Sunday and told their members not to vote for Obama again but with anybody, on a scale from one to ten, chances are you will agree on seven things and disagree on three. However, we must not allow the three things to keep us separate. Whatever three things we don’t agree on, we should be able to put those things aside and let God handle it and the seven things we agree on, let’s make it work. Just so we are clear, I will not marry two people of the same sex so they don’t have to take my 501C3, I will give it up. However, we should not let this one incident stop us from supporting our president. I’m still going to vote for Obama in November.

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Bishop Albert Jamison and Family Bishop Albert Jamison in the doorway of his Long Island Estate.

Family Time! Bishop Jamison playing basketball with son Jourdan,.

Bishop Jamison holds a gold locket of his son Albert Jr. who passed away 6 years ago.

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GOSPEL MUSIC WORKSHOP OF AMERICA, INC 45th ANNUAL CONVENTION PROGRAM July 7-13, 2012

“UNIFYING THE FAMILY THROUGH GOSPEL MUSIC” SATURDAY, JULY 7, 2012 8:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

DEAN’S OFFICE

GAYLORD OPRYLAND Ryman Studio L

8:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.

FACULTY OFFICE

GAYLORD OPRYLAND Ryman Studio L

8:00 A.M. - 12:00 A.M. MUSIC KIT ASSEMBLY

GAYLORD OPRYLAND Delta Ballroom Registration A

8:00 A.M.

SECURITY OFFICE

GAYLORD OPRYLAND Delta Island Boardroom

8:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

ACADEMIC LIBRARY

GAYLORD OPRYLAND Ryman Studios M/N/O

8:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

QUARTET DIVISION OFFICE/REGISTRATION

GAYLORD OPRYLAND Ryman Ballroom

8:00 A.M. – 5:30 P.M.

EXHIBITS MOVE-IN

GAYLORD OPRYLAND Edward M.Smith Memorial Hall Ryman Exhibit Hall C2

8:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

PRESS OFFICE

GAYLORD OPRYLAND Governor’s Chamber C

9:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.

CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD'S OFFICE

GAYLORD OPRYLAND Governor’s Chamber E

9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.

HOUSING OFFICE

GAYLORD OPRYLAND Governor’s Chamber E

9:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M.

EXECUTIVE OFFICE

GAYLORD OPRYLAND Ryman Exhibit Hall C2 Registration

9:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M.

YOUTH OFFICE

GAYLORD OPRYLAND Governor’s Chamber D

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You have a SPIRITUAL MISSION - the message & your music. You deserve to get paid quickly and accurately. SESAC provides fast, accurate payments, so you can focus on what’s important -

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SPECIAL RECOGNITION On behalf of Bishop Albert L. Jamison and the Board of Directors, we are paying tribute to a few Board of Directors’ members who traveled alongside our founder, the late Rev. James Cleveland.

Helen J. H. Stephens Chapter Representative and Member, Board of Directors Gospel Music Workshop of America Helen J. H. Stephens was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. She was educated in the public schools in New Orleans and obtained her degree of music from Dillard University of New Orleans, Louisiana. While attending Booker T. Washington High School, Helen played the piano for weekly assembly programs, sang in the school choir, performed in operettas, and was active in the school band. While in New Orleans, she sang with a choral group, “The Southland Spiritual Chanters.” Helen, being the aggressive and progressive woman formed her own group, “The Ebenezer Echoes.” In addition to this, she played for several churches in the area. After completing her degree at Dillard University in

James L. Ford James L. Ford was born in 1937 in Philadelphia, PA and is a product of the Philadelphia Public School System. He acquired his love of Gospel Music from his parents who took him to all the big gospel shows at the “Met: to hear the “big name” quartets. James’ career in gospel began in the early 1950’s when he started singing with and managing the Starlight Harmoneers (a poplar young quartet group in the Philadelphia area). In 1958, James was one of the founding members of the Victory Choral Union Young Adult Division – in the Thomas A. Dorsey Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses. During these formative years with Victory and The Dorsey Convention, James met and formed life-long friendships with such gospel greats as Sally

1949, Helen married Arnold E. Stephens in 1950, and shortly thereafter, moved to California in 1953. She initially played for the Solid Rock Baptist Church of Oakland. She played at the Antioch Baptist Church of Oakland, California as well as Progressive Missionary Baptist Church of Berkeley, California. Helen is now a member of the Olivet Institutional Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Gordon Humphrey, Jr. In 1966, Helen organized the “Stephens Singers.” In 1969 she organized the gospel group, “The Voices of Christ” of Berkeley, California with 23 members. By 1970 the choir had grown to 92 members strong. The choir has recorded eight albums and has received numerous awards. This phenomenal choir is also in the Hall of Fame of the Gospel Academy Awards. Many outstanding music directors and gospel singers were trained under the direction of Helen Stephens. Helen has many “firsts” to her credit along with being founder of the “Voices of Christ.” She also organized the Northern California Chapter of the Gospel Music Workshop of America and has remained Chapter Representative. This involvement takes her to many gospel workshops throughout California and other states to teach and learn gospel music. At the invitation of the California State College of Hayward, Helen introduced and incorporated gospel music into that institution’s curriculum and instructed there for six years. She is currently a teacher of gospel music at the College of Marin in Kentfield, California and formerly Dominican College of San Rafael, California.

Singers. They have a membership of 36 singers. Under Helen’s fine direction, they sing throughout the Bay Area, the state of California and nationally. As an example of her influence, the Lighthouse Singers of Marin won an award at the Gospel Academy Awards for the most promising choir of 1983. Helen and the Lighthouse Singers have completed two recordings, their first, “See the Glorious Light,” and their second, “Lighthouse Sings, Steven Roberts Music.” In addition to being one of the greatest directors around, Helen also sings beautifully. IN 1992, Helen was appointed to the National Board of Directors of the Gospel Music Workshop of America in Chicago, Illinois. She has made her mark in gospel music for more than 50 years. Helen was also appointed to and served on the Marin Arts Council in Marin County for two – 1 year terms. Helen attributes her success in gospel with Northern Cal, Voices of Christ, the Lighthouse Singers, to her faith in God and the support of Arnold E. Stephens, her husband of fifty-eight years. They have three children, six grandchildren, and seven greatgrandchildren. Helen Stephens’ goal in life would be to spread the inspiration of gospel music and teachings for the education, spirit, and joy to the world.

IN 1979, Helen became the director of the “Lighthouse Singers of Marin.” The choir was formed from the Family Light School of Music and the Tamalpais

Martin, Charles Fold, Rev. Norma Jean Pender, The O’Neal Twins, The Caravans, Joe Ligons and the Mighty Clouds of Joy, Ira Tucker and the Dixie Hummingbirds, The Clara Ward Singers, The Roberta Martin Singers and the late Rev. James Cleveland and many others. These movers and shakers in the gospel world served as mentors and tutors to this young man in cultivating his love of gospel music and led him in a new direction producing and promoting gospel programs. James served as Business Manager of the Victory Choral Union/Ensemble for many years and this blend of talent and business sense made Victory’s anniversaries the gospel “event” of the year. Victory recorded their first album in 1962 and went on to record ten more albums over the next several years. One of which went “Gold” – “Victory, Victory Shall Be Mine.” James also served as President and Business Manger from 1964-1975. For several years prior to the “great event” Rev. James Cleveland and James Ford would sit around the kitchen table and Rev. Cleveland would share his dreams with James of founding a church in L.A. and founding a

gospel convention “Where Everybody is Somebody” and young people could be taught the fundamentals and roots of gospel music. In March 1967, the dream became a reality. James Ford and others were called to Detroit, Michigan where the First Annual Board Meeting convened. The Gospel Music Workshop was founded and James was appointed to the Board of Directors. At this time, he is the only original member of the Board of Directors of the G.M.W.A Inc. and has served continuously since 1967. James L. Ford resides in Philadelphia with his wife of 35 years, Geraldine whom he met while singing with the Victory Choral Union/Ensemble over 47 years ago. They are the parents of five daughters, 11 grandchildren, 9 (and an angel) great-grandchildren.

N Shirley Mae K. Berkeley Mrs. Shirley Mae K. Berkeley, popularly known as Ma Berkeley, has graced music ministry for more than 74 years. Mrs. Berkeley is a fourth generation native Washingtonian, who studied under Mrs. Etta M. Judkins from 4 -16 years of age. She is a graduate from D.C. public schools and a graduate of Howard University. Minister of Music Emeritus (First Baptist Church of Glenarden), Director, Musician, Song Writer, Instructor, and consultant are positions held at many churches. She has served and contributed greatly to influencing gospel and sacred music in the church worldwide. Several churches have benefited from her gift such as Walker Memorial Baptist Church (26 yrs.); Zion Baptist Church (29 yrs.); Jerusalem Baptist Church (6 yrs.); First Baptist Church Highland Park (11 yrs.); New Bethel Baptist Church (14 yrs.); Lincoln Park United Methodist (12 yrs.); McKendree United Methodist Church (10 yrs.); St. Stephens Baptist Church (2 yrs.); Pilgrim Baptist Church (2 yrs.); New Abundant Life Missionary Baptist Church (7 yrs.); retired First Baptist Church of Glenarden (10 yrs.). She presently serves as musician at Maryland

Family Christian Center and New Canaan Baptist Church and still serves at First Baptist Church of Glenarden as musician and director. Her musical career spans for more than 65 years. Retired from the U.S. Department of the Treasury since 1984, Mrs. Berkeley is a member and has served on the Board of Directors of the Gospel Music Workshop of America, Inc. for 43 years, 16 of which she served as the Treasurer. She is the founder, and Chapter Representative for D.C. Chapter, GMWA for 42 years. She has served as an instructor for 26 years at Edwin Hawkins Music and Arts Seminar. Mrs. Berkeley embraces excellence and is well respected in the music industry. She is a songwriter, composer, arranger, musician and musical director. Songwriter of many and arranged 6 hymnals. “He Has Done Great Things” (3) hymnals; “I Will Bless The Lord” (2 hymnals); “Now Unto Him Who Is Able” (1 hymnal). Instilling in many in the music industry that “music that is thoughtfully prepared and presented, is a spiritually enriching and powerful experience.” Mrs. Berkeley is a lifetime member For her contribution to sacred gospel music she was awarded the Gospel Heritage Foundation Award in 2006 (Minister of Music of the Year). Married for 61 years to Deacon William S. Berkeley Sr., mother of their two ordained children --- Reverend Williams S. Berkeley, Jr. and Minister Rhonda Berkeley Belt. They have six grandchildren, and seven greatgrandchildren and is a Godmother to many.

the Chicago chapter of Illinois Grammys. He was awarded a “Living Legend Award” by the Gospel According to Chicago in 2010. He is the recipient of many awards and certificates from religious and civic organizations throughout the country.

Rev Dr. Issac Whittmon Rev. Dr. Issac Whittmon is a native of Chicago, IL. All of his academic and religious training was completed in Chicago. At the age of 17, he organized his own group, the Clefts of Faith. It was with this group Rev. Dr. Issac Whittmon earned the respect of many great artists. The late Rev. James Cleveland, King of Gospel, once said of Rev. Dr. Issac Whittmon, “He is an important force in Gospel Music. He is the last of the old school and the first of the new school”. School is to be interpreted as school of Gospel Music. The aforementioned quote was stated in part because of the vocal versatility of Rev. Dr. Issac Whittmon and his electrifying performances. Dr. Whittmon was the first Gospel Artist in Chicago nominated for a Grammy Award for “The Lord Is My Light.” He is a lifetime member of the national board of Directors of the Gospel Music Workshop of America. He was the founder and director for the Soft Sheen choir, an outreach music ministry of Soft Sheen Products, Inc, a major manufacturer of health and beauty aids. He received an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity degree from the Gospel Ministry Outreach Theological Institutes of Houston, TX. He has been honored at the Chicago Gospel Fest twice, 1997 and 2008. He received the first Governor’s award from

Rev. Dr. Issac Whittmon is Founder and Pastor of the Greater Metropolitan Church of Christ, Inc. presently located 2430 East 75thh street in Chicago, IL. This year the church celebrates their 45th Year Anniversary. Not only is the church known for being filled with the Holy Ghost, there have been many outreach programs. “Feed the Hungry Program”, Thanksgiving and Christmas Gift Basket Program”, a Radio Outreach Program and in 2007 launched a Television Telecast on a local cable network which airs a minimum of 5 times a month and a radio internet broadcast on Saturday afternoon. Feeling the need to help the community, Dr.Whittmon organized, “The “Mother Ruth Whittmon Society”, (MRWS) a Non-Profit Organization developed to help those in need. The main focus of this organization is to stress health, education as well as mentoring black men and women by building their self esteem so that they can provide for their families. The Society has a free Summer Breakfast and Lunch Program for youth from 1-20 years old every summer and a Back to School Rally held in August of each year. Dr.Whittmon’s many exhibits, and awards were featured at the DuSable Museum in Chicago, Illinois from September 2011 thru May 2012 in a display entitled: “Spread the Word ~ Evolution of Gospel from Chicago Throughout the World”. Dr. Issac

Reverend James Cleveland

December 5, 1931 - February 9, 1991

Whittmon strives to serve his congregation by visiting the sick and shut-in as well as feeding the poor. His constant prayer is to help others so that they can help themselves. A consummate giver, Rev. Whittmon works tirelessly to support and encourage all who come to him for prayer. He is known as one of the most outstanding versatile artists of his time. He stands his ground and takes a backseat for no one. Dr. Whittmon has recorded many albums with Rev. James Cleveland (He’s Working It Out & The Lord is My Light) and has appeared in Ebony, Score and Billboard Magazine and has appeared at the Apollo Theater, Arie Crown Theater and the Civic Opera House.

Thank you all for your continued years of service to GMWA

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Congratulations and Welcome!! Music Workshop of America 45th Annual Convention

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One of the most sought after courses in the GMWA Delegateshave asked for this course and WE LISTENED! “Christian Hip Hop & the African American Church”

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Welcomes The Gospel Music Workshop of America!

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Booking Information P.O. Box 332165. Murfreesboro, TN 37133-2165 dlc.musicministry@yahoo.com 615.653.1167 !

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2012 CANDIDATES FOR A TWO (2) YEAR ELECTED GMWA BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ SEAT PLEASE NOTE: MEMBERSHIP.

THESE TWO (2) SEATS ARE VOTED ON BY OUR CANDIDATES

1. Dr. Joan Hillsman, Syracuse, N.Y. 3. Dr. Linda Rolle, Minneapolis, MN • • • •

2. Mr. Stephen Roberts, Haywood, CA 4. Bishop Andre S. Woods, Detroit, MI

Voting will take place on Thursday, July 12, 2012, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Voting will be on the Ryman C2 Exhibit Hall Foyer of the Gaylord Convention Center All delegates must have a 2012 Convention Badge to vote Election results will be announced on Friday, July 13, 2012 at our 7:00 PM Service

GMWA Dress Code For Board Meeting & Convention

FEMALES No Pants: During Communion and Nightly Services. All leaders during Convention (Board of Directors, Auxiliary Leaders, etc. – permissible at Board Meeting Sessions). Relaxed Time: Workshop Classes, Mass Choir, Auxiliary Meetings and the Midnight Services. Pant Type/Specification: NO outer wear, stretch leotard type (exception with top of minimum length-immediately below knees). Conservative pant suit or pant/top combinations (preferred). Other Current Code: NO halters, shorts, mini skirts more than 4” above the knee, hair rollers, etc. MALES Current Dress Code continues in force: NO exposed tank top undershirts, shorts, hair rollers, etc.