The Lincolnton-Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce is once again hosting Southern Gospel Night in conjunction with the 20th Annual Lewis Family Homecoming and Bluegrass Festival set for May 3-5 at Elijah Clark State Park.

The chamber's 13th Annual Southern Gospel Night will be held Wednesday, May 2, beginning at 7 p.m. under the festival tent at the park.

As is the tradition, "Little Roy" Lewis is set to serve as the emcee for the occasion. He will be assisted by Lizzy Long, a home-grown bluegrass musician now living in Nashville, Tennessee.

The show will feature a variety of local talent such as Rev. Dan Rosser, pastor of Lincolnton Baptist Church; Renee Hall, minister of music at Lincolnton Baptist; the Lincolnton United Methodist Church Sanctuary Choir; the Lincolnton UMC Children's Choir; In Jesus' Name; the First Assembly of God Choir; Shannon Cox and Laney Aycock; The Paradise Seekers; the Morningside Baptist Church Choir; and The Gays.

During the evening, festival tickets, "LincolnCHECKS," and gift certificates will be given away as door prizes.

In his remarks, Ernie Doss, who is chairing the event for the chamber, said, "The success of Southern Gospel Night would not be possible without Norman Adams and Tony Anderson (promoters of the bluegrass festival), who allow us to come together in worship and song each year during the festival. I would also like to thank our church families for their musical contributions to the program."

Doss further expressed the chamber's appreciation to the following businesses and individuals for their help in sponsoring the program:

American Legion Post 194, B & R Seafood, Beggs Funeral Home, Cliatt Crossing, Commercial Insurance Services, Inc., Cullars Inn, Farmers State Bank, Fast Times Convenience Store.

Goldman & Wengrow Clothing & Shoe Store, Dr. Gregory M. Griffin, J.W. Spratlin & Son Construction, Lee Builders, Inc., the Lincoln County Republican Party, MTA & J Tire Service, NAPA Auto Parts.

Rowland and Ware Auto Parts, Inc., Soap Creek Marina, Soap Creek Restaurant, Sons of the American Legion Squadron 194, and Spratlin's Hardware & Building Supply Company.

Those attending Southern Gospel Night are asked to bring lawn chairs.

There is no admission charge.

For more information, contact the chamber of commerce office at 706- 359-7970.