The National Quartet Convention Awards were held during the event last week in Louisville.

“I Know A Man Who Can,” recorded by Greater Vision, was selected song of the year. The song is currently No. 2 on the Singing News Top 80 Chart and will move to the top spot for October.

Jason Crabb won soloist of the year. Kim Collingsworth, of The Collingsworth Family, was selected as musician of the year.

The favorite mixed group was won by The Collingsworth Family. Male group of the year was selected by The Booth Brothers.

The Perrys took the award for album of the year with “Celebrate Me Home.”

The vocal part winners were as follows: Eric Bennett, Triumphant Quartet (bass of the year), Jim Brady, Booth Brothers (baritone of the year), Ronnie Booth, Booth Brothers (lead vocalist of the year), David Phelps, Gaither Vocal Band (tenor of the year), Sheri Easter, Jeff & Sheri Easter (alto of the year) and Kim Hopper, The Hoppers (soprano of the year).

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Evangelist Wanda Osborne, formerly of Harlan County, has released a new book which is available through Amazon.com.

“THEN” is not only a look into the path of tragedies in her life but an account of the victories through her faith in the Lord Jesus. She talks about her early childhood, through traveling as the Doorway Singers, until now, singing and evangelizing as Latter Glory.

“This book will encourage the reader in their walk while building their own faith in God,” said Osborne.

As her story unfolds it is certain that you will see the hand of God guiding her steps all along the way; be inspired, be encouraged, be uplifted, in the assurance that God will guide your steps too.

Find Osborne on Facebook or call (606) 523-4028.

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Harlan County’s own The Tony Dean Family will make their debut at No. 75 on the Singing news Top 80 Chart for October.

“Consume Me,” was written by Victoria Johnson, and is the group’s first Top 80 song. They are on the Patterson Promotions label. Their new single “Either Way I Cant Lose,” was recently released to radio.

For more information, call 837-8733 or visit their website at tonydeanfamily.com.

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In September 2014, NQC will be held in Pigeon Forge, Tenn.

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A number of group member changes have been announced.

HisSong, a popular trio, has saw the departure of Adam Elrod and Michael Frost.

Two charges has occurred with the group Mark 209. Baritone vocalist Jimmy Reno has left the road due to the personal issues and bass vocalist Joe Armstrong has left to join The Florida Boys.

Bryan James Hatton has been named the new baritone and Ray Woconish will be filling the bass position for Mark 209.

Dan and Ginger Pitchers will be leaving The Lesters. he has accepted the position of pastor at First Baptist Church in Annapolis, Mo., effective immediately. She will stay with the group until a replacement is found.

Jordan James has been named the new bass singer for the Dixie Echoes. Craig Thomas is the new tenor and Ben Hart will be the new pianist for the popular quartet.

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One of the industry’s most talked-about new artists, 11th Hour, has just entered a long term recording agreement with Crossroads Entertainment & Marketing.

“Crossroads is such a reputable company, representing the finest Christian music artists. Being considered a part of their family is such an honor,” said group member Amber Eppinette. “11th Hour’s prayer is to always be found doing the will of God and we are very thankful He has led us to Chris White and Crossroads. We look forward to a long and successful relationship for many years to come!”

The new project, “Steppin’ Out,” is scheduled to be released Oct. 16.

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Paul Lunsford can be contacted via email at plunsford@heartlandpublications.com.