Why Hello 2013 ~ Nice to Meet You!

Another year has come and gone. The quartet is taking some time off to spend with family before starting a crazy hectic schedule in January, February, and March. I can't go into much detail right now ~ just because it's a bit too early ~ but I will encourage you to hang on tight and stay closely in touch with what's going on with Trust Quartet in 2013!

As I mentioned, we have concerts booked pretty solidly through the first quarter. There are quite a few POPCORN concerts around, too. Find out where they are and circle those dates and places on your calendar and come see us. You won't regret that trip! Several are already on the schedule and more are in the works and just haven't been confirmed yet.

We are planning a trip back to the studio. While it's far too early to even project a release date, look for a new recording to be available during the late summer months or early fall.

And finally, get set for 2013 to be closed out like never before! There are still some details to finish before we can formally release an announcement, but trust me when I tell you that if things follow through with the plans that are on the table right now . . . WELL GLORY!!!

Wanna Help? Here's How!

I was just looking over some of the statistics for this blog. I consider it still in its infancy, and I look forward to it growing as more people become aware of it. Thank you for reading whenever something is posted.

There are two things I'd love for you to do.

One, subscribe to the blog. This way, whenever something new is posted, it sends you an e-mail to let you know. You'd never miss a beat! (Oh, did you catch that music-related terminology there???)

Two, feel free to comment. There has yet to be anyone to comment on what they're reading. It doesn't have to be lengthy or even profound. It would be fun to have some banter back and forth on here.

OK, I'll add a third. This is a bonus, a freebie, even! Please tell a friend about the blog. Go ahead, you can do that. We don't mind a bit! In fact, that'd just tickle our funny bone to the core!

Thanks for being friends of Trust Quartet. We value each of you like you wouldn't believe!

And another freebie . . . be watching for a special Year-End message from me in a couple of days.

Popcorn Concerts Are Coming Quickly!!

Not long ago, I posted a blog about what singers do during our time off. That particular night, I was attending another concert in our town and learning from others how to make our own group better.  If you've been to a Trust concert before, you have probably noticed a video camera in the back by the sound system. While we use those videos to put on our website and YouTube, we also watch them to learn from our strengths and weaknesses.

I've been able to take a couple of days off from my job around Christmas, so what do I do? I watch a concert video from a while back to learn how I might can get better at what I do. Tonight, I decided to watch a Popcorn concert. In fact, it was the Inaugural Popcorn Concert from almost a year ago. I sat and watched the entire concert, from start to finish. As the video was drawing to a close, I pulled out my phone that is smarter than I, and began to make some notes. I saw things that I need to do in order to perform my tasks better. I saw some things that I'll suggest to the others in the group that could make it better. Oh, and I laughed. I worshipped. I enjoyed reminiscing the great time we had that January night in Indiantown.

Having said that, I want to encourage you to check out our schedule at our website. If we are going to be in your area, please make plans to be there. We do work hard to make the concerts worth your while. Yes, we want to do well musically, but before we ever sing a concert, please know that it is bathed in prayer and asking that God speak to the lives of people who gather to hear it.

There are several Popcorn Concerts coming up in the next couple of months. You really do want to find one close by and circle that date on your calendar . . . then attend! We'll look forward to seeing you!

Our Visit with Laura at The Clock

Buzz, Beverly, and Laura

One of the enjoyable things about being with Trust Quartet involves food! If you know me, stop laughing ~ NOW! Seriously, the fellowship on the bus is great, and the concerts are obviously what we get serious about. But when we're in a restaurant enjoying the fellowship around the table, we have a blast!

It's especially great when we have those servers that go above and beyond their call of duty. Such was the case this past weekend when we stopped by The Clock restaurant in Arcadia. On Sunday, we were fortunate to have Laura as our server. She's pictured here with Buzz and Beverly as we were getting ready to get back on the bus. (Hence the messy table!)

I'm not sure if I made her nervous or not when I asked to speak to her manager. Shortly after I mentioned that to her, the manager came out and he asked if everything was alright. I told him these folks (pointing to the quartet family around the table) know I generally don't complain, but I had a complaint that I needed to tell him. In fact, at this point, I think some of the Trust family was getting worried! I just told him that Laura didn't make enough money! Servers at restaurants don't make much money from the place of business. They rely on our tips to make any kind of decent living wage. While we certainly try to leave generous tips, this was one occasion that I don't know that anyone could have left an adequate tip! Laura was just that good!

So, if you're in the Arcadia area, visit The Clock restaurant and ask that Laura be your server! You won't regret that decision. Oh, and when you're there, the shrimp basket with a side of fries is good! 

Trust Quartet Celebrates Christmas

We are on the bus on Saturday night after set up, sound check, and rehearsal for our concert in the morning in Arcadia. Friends, we genuinely love one another and look for every opportunity to share with one another.

Tonight we are together for the last time before Christmas, so we took the time to share Christmas gifts. It was really a special time as we gave of ourselves to each other.

From our Trust Family to all our friends, we wish God's most special blessings on you this Christmas season. May you experience the joy of knowing the Person of Christmas this year!

Trust's New Look

"Lightning"

This past summer, while Trust Quartet was rehearsing and not "concerting", some very important work was being done. Over the years, Trust has been fortunate to travel to concert venues in a bus equipped with nine beds, a living room, a kitchen, a dressing room, restroom, and of course a driver's seat.

Thanks to God's goodness in using you, our faithful supporters, we were able to get a much needed paint job for the bus. Spence likes to tell folks the bus got saved ~~ now white as snow with the blood of Jesus streaming down the side!

We are so very grateful for our friends who helped provide the means to acquire this new 'addition' to our Trust Family.

Trust Quartet at Point of Life Fellowship in Lakeport, FL

Trust Quartet got back together this weekend after a week off. It sure was good to see everybody again. Our concert Sunday morning was just down the road in Lakeport ~~ and wow, what a time! I've just been watching some video of the concert, and I may post a couple of videos from this one. Not necessarily because of the music quality, but the energy in the place was electric! Point of Life Fellowship and their pastor Eddie Woodham welcomed us with open arms and we were able to just relax and enjoy the presence of the Lord together.

Spence was recovering from a pretty nasty cold and we were a bit apprehensive as to how things would go, musically. But as the concert went on, his voice got stronger. We were so thankful that God gave him the strength to get through this one. Now our prayer is that he didn't give it to any of the rest of us!!

After the concert, several of the church folks took us to a restaurant and treated us to a buffet lunch. That was just another highlight of the day. It doesn't take much to figure out that a buffet meal will put a smile on the faces of Trust Quartet!

To all the folks at Point of Life Fellowship in Lakeport ~ thank you so much for an incredible day!

A Trust Thanksgiving

I've been watching many of my friends on Facebook posting a daily word of thanksgiving this month. That's really cool and I wish I would have thought to do that at the beginning of the month, but I didn't. I didn't want to feel like I was simply jumping on a popular bandwagon a week into it, so I've simply enjoyed looking at what others have written. Please understand that in no way means I'm not thankful, because I am. In fact, what it has also done, is remind me of things I'm thankful for that sometimes I may take for granted.

I may take the time to make a list for my personal blog (Faison Focus) this week, but right now, I want to share some things from the quartet's perspective. These are not written in any particular order.

We're obviously thankful and in praise to our God for allowing us to travel and sing. Our ministry heart is to encourage the believer and evangelize the lost. The abilities that God has given us to accomplish those goals are an unbelievable blessing. It's one we do not take lightly. God has given us many friends who allow us to minister in their church. He has kept us safe over many highway miles. In short, as the Scripture says, "Every good gift and perfect gift comes from the Father..." To God be the glory! The rest of the blessings are certainly in light of the Ultimate Blessing we have in Christ.

We're thankful for our friends that support us, both prayerfully and financially. Some of us were talking this past weekend about how we have some incredible friends who are there for us, through good and bad. There are folks who are so kind and gracious to help us as they are able financially and more importantly hold us up in prayer on a regular basis. Friends, we absolutely could not do what we do without you!

We're thankful for our families who allow us to go and fulfill our ministry. From time to time, we're able to have family on trips with us, but many times we leave them behind on weekends. We do try to schedule our services around important dates in our family's lives, but sometimes that cannot be avoided. Our families mean so much to us and the support they provide helps us beyond what words can express.

We're thankful for Ole Lightning. The bus has many, MANY miles on her. In fact, that bus is younger than any of us (Assembled in 1980, according to the sign on the wall.), but with well over a million miles under her belt, she's holding her age well! We try to take care of her, but we're grateful for the way she helps get us down the road.

We're thankful for our friends in the quartet 'business.' I use that term almost tongue in cheek, simply because it's the term that comes to mind to express who I am referring to. While the list could go on and on, I would simply highlight the folks associated with Simple Faith and Gulf State Quartet. Our partnership with the POPCORN Concerts provide us with opportunities to fellowship together, and when we say we get along well ~~ it's truth! The men and women who make up these three ministries have a genuine appreciation and admiration for each other that cannot be overlooked nor overstated.

And, since I'm the one writing this, I'll mention this ~ I'm thankful for Trust Quartet. The Trust family is a special group of people with a special bond. We enjoy traveling together and sharing the good news of Jesus through song. God has placed a unique group of people together and is using that group to further build His Kingdom. I'm thankful for each one who is working together toward that common goal.

We'll take time off this weekend and do the family thing. But as we do, please know that we are thankful for you, our Trust friends. You are a blessing to us, and we appreciate all you are to us and what you do for us. We love you.

Buzz and Beverly, Jeff and Rhonda, Seth, Spence and Karen, John and Pat, Robin and me ~ and all our families ~~ Happy Thanksgiving!

Singing With Robert!

He first caught my attention during our sound check Sunday morning. Then, when I went to Sunday school class, there he was again. I sat behind him, and throughout the Sunday school time, I found myself observing him. I learned his name is Robert. I watched how he interacted with others in the room much older than he. I listened as he shared prayer requests for those he was concerned about. I listened to how several in the room mentioned his love for music. After all, that's why I had the occasion to be there ~ Trust Quartet would be singing during their worship service that morning.

I watched as Robert and his family left the room and went to take their place in the sanctuary and prepare for worship. They sat on the very back row, left side. Smiles rarely left their faces, even through some of their tears of joy as we sang Because He Lives, Treasures Unseen, and Sinner Saved By Grace. What really caught my heart, though, was his response to the very last song we sang. This particular song speaks of going home to see Jesus. As I introduce the song, I'm reminded (so I remind those listening) that life as we know it can be hard. It can be riddled with pain, suffering, and disappointment. There are things we may not understand as we walk through life here, but one day soon, we'll be home with Jesus. Life as we know it is almost over. Those of us who know Christ as our Savior will soon be able to worship Him in all His glory! As we sang It's Almost Over, Robert and his mom, through tears, were smiling from ear to ear! They both had their hands raised in worship of the Almighty God who loved them and was waiting to welcome them to that reward!

You see, Robert is confined to a wheelchair. I don't know all his physical ailments, but I know from his testimony that he loves Jesus with everything he's got! One day, he's not going to be bound to that wheelchair! One day, he's not going to have trouble communicating with those around him. One day, Robert will be able to stand and sing in the Heavenly choir! And for the record, I'm looking forward to joining him!

Trust's Newest Helper

Seth Joiner

Each person in the Trust Quartet family has a responsibility. Whether it is loading or unloading the bus, moving equipment in and setting it up, or being in charge of the product table ~~ you get the idea. There are lots of jobs available, and if Buzz is gonna feed you, he wants some return for his investment! (Just kidding, Buzz.) After all, there are some of us that the investment is significantly larger with that deal!

For the last few weeks, we've had a young man with us who has been trying his best to earn his meals. Seth Joiner is the nine year old grandson of Rhonda and Jeff. He has learned quite well how to bring in microphone stands, stools, tables . . . and he's a pretty good water-go-getter, too! Seriously, if he can help, he's generally ready to do it.

When Seth is not traveling with us, he is a fourth grader in school, and enjoys riding the bright orange bike Papa and G-ma (Buzz and Beverly) gave for his birthday. He hunts with Papa Jeff every chance he gets, and enjoys playing football, baseball, and fishing with dad (Brett Joiner). Maw Maw Rhonda tells me he really enjoys playing drums and guitar and has tried his hand at writing a song or two.

Seth is a talented guy and one day, I wouldn't be surprised to see his name in the credits alongside a song and you may just see him on stage with Trust Quartet some day. Until then, though ~~ Hey Seth, would you please go grab Uncle Steve some water??? Please???? 

What Do Singers Do in Their Free Time?

I tend to visit websites of Southern Gospel artists, and several ask and answer questions about our hobbies. Our site, trust quartet.com is no different. As I type this on my fancy phone, I'm sitting on the front row at Faith Baptist Church in Vero Beach anxiously awaiting the Tribute Quartet concert to begin. If you look on my profile on the quartet's website, you'll find this group listed among my favorites. These guys are great musically, and appear to be the real deal. Coming to concerts of the full time groups is a treat for me, too, because when I do, I learn from them.

I'm going to wait til the concert starts, take a couple of pictures to attach to this blog and post it. Then, I'm going to put the phone up and enjoy the music. If you ever have the opportunity to hear Tribute Quartet in concert, you really need to do yourself the favor and take advantage of that. To learn more about my friends at Tribute, visit their website at www.tributequartet.com.

Oh, here they come!!!!!!

A Few Thoughts From My Heart

It has been a while since I wrote anything here. Thanks for your patience and hanging around.

The results of the election were not at all what we hoped for, but we should be reminded that the same God who was on the throne yesterday is still on the throne. He may not be pleased with the direction our Nation is headed, but our job is not to worry, but to rest ~ in Him! We need not fret, but rather continue to walk in the paths of righteousness, holding firmly to His nail scarred hand.

The song perhaps never meant as much to a collective group of people ~"I don't know about tomorrow, I just live from day to day". Friend, I know who holds tomorrow, and I KNOW WHO HOLDS MY HAND! When I examined my life this morning, I remembered my job here has not changed. I am still called to love God and my neighbor, and pray daily for them ~ yes, even those with whom I disagree.

Stay focused on doing our part to keep our Nation great. I'm still thankful to be an American!

URGENT NOTICE!

Due to illnesses, Trust Quartet has had to cancel appearances this weekend. Buzz is ill and Beverly had to be taken to the Emergency Room with a severe case of vertigo on Friday. Thankfully, she was allowed to go home, but is on complete bed-rest for a few days. The Popcorn Concert (to my knowledge) at Friendship Baptist Church in St. Petersburg will still happen with Gulf State and Simple Faith, but Trust will not be there. The concert that was scheduled for Sunday morning at Faith Temple Church of God in Wauchula will now feature Spence singing and preaching. We are sorry for the inconvenience, and would ask that you remember Buzz and Beverly in your prayers. At this point, we will look to be in Anthony, FL at the Anthony United Methodist Church on both Saturday night (October 27) and Sunday morning (October 28).

Trust Quartet is Thinking About YOU!!!

Trust Quartet had a great September! The month began at FGMA and we put a wrap on it last weekend at the Okeechobee Church of God. In the middle we were at some fine churches and had a blast making some new friends and renewing old acquaintances! October is here and we will be heading towards Frostproof and Lorida this coming weekend; then a POPCORN Concert in St. Petersburg the following weekend. Check the schedule and when we're near you, please come join us for a great time of southern gospel music. I'll not write a lot here right now, because I'll be working on a combination piece for the website and here, but I just wanted to give you a quick hello and we love you. Steve for all of the Trust Family

A Cat-Nap on the Bus

Many of you know by now that I work the midnight shift at a hotel. I was a bit nervous about doing that when I first started. That is due in large part to a failed attempt at being a security officer some 15 years prior to this job. I didn't handle staying awake when the sun was down on a regular basis very well. But quite honestly, it doesn't bother me now. Perhaps its because back then it was not as consistent in working overnights with maybe an afternoon or morning mixed in. Now, I'm working midnights and I know that's what my schedule is. Even still, though, if the other part of my day is different and the routine is disturbed or changed, it does not bode well with my body clock. This past weekend, I chose to get some other work done on Friday instead of taking a nap as I normally do. So, although I slept REAL GOOD Friday night, I guess I was still a bit sleepy after we got on the bus to go to our concerts. We weren't traveling that far away, so I didn't want to go lie in my bunk, but I just couldn't hold my eyes open. When that happens, my thing is to grab one of our 'sofa pillows' and hold it so I don't break my neck as we're rollin' down the road. I had no idea that one of my quartet sisters took a picture of my catnap ~ until I received it via e-mail on Monday! I'm honestly not sure which one of those sisters to give credit to for the photography. I do know either Beverly or Rhonda deserve credit for it. But I figured I'd pass it on, anyway. I'm hoping some other pictures will be able to be posted later either here on my blog or at trustquartet.com.

Welcome Home!

Sunday, September 9 we sang at Carlson Memorial United Methodist Church in LaBelle, FL. As we pulled up on Saturday to load in, this sign greeted us. We're always glad when churches actively promote concerts when we travel, but the part that caught my eye was the 'Welcome Home' sign above the sign!
When we began to get set up, Beverly commented to the Associate Pastor, Joe, who was serving as our host, how beautiful the church was. His response gave us a clue what to expect. He graciously acknowledged the comment about the church 'building', but quickly added that the people attending there was the real 'beautiful church.'
Pastor Joe hit the nail on the head with that assessment! The time Sunday morning with those dear friends was nothing short of sensational. They were such a gracious group of folks and Trust Quartet is so glad to count them as friends.
If you are unchurched in the LaBelle, FL area, we can highly encourage you to attend this fine church and worship with them.
Carlson Memorial UMC, THANK YOU for allowing Trust to be with you! We're already looking forward to our next opportunity to be with you!

It Is No Secret

Among the songs that Trust Quartet recorded on Classics Made New was It Is No Secret. What a great song! To realize that God's love, shown to us through His grace, is enough to save us from a sinful nature; and to know that it does not need to be kept a secret, but spread to anyone who is willing to hear and accept it! The writer of that great song was Stuart Hamblen. Mr. Hamblen is known throughout Gospel music as being a prolific writer of many great songs. In addition to It Is No Secret, he also wrote Until Then and This Ole House. Why do I bring it up in a blog, you ask? Mr. Hamblen's grandson, Bill Lindsay, lives in FL these days and he contacted us about our singing the song. He told us he'd be at FGMA this year and asked if we'd sing It Is No Secret. We couldn't resist and certainly enjoyed meeting Mr. Lindsay and visiting with him some during the convention.

This is Bill after we sang It Is No Secret at FGMA.

Dee Cooper

Over the years, Dee Cooper was a friend of Trust Quartet. He was a founding member and original FGMA board member. He went home to be with the Lord this past year. He was remembered before the concert tonight.

Our sympathies go to his family and friends who are left behind. But as Trust Quartet has sung many times over the last couple of years, Because He Lives we can face tomorrow and know we'll be reunited to sing with him and all those gone before us in Heaven's choir.

Breakfast at FGMA

Trust Quartet is enjoying fellowship at breakfast this morning. We are about to go to our morning chapel service where Randy and Mary Perry lead us in worship.

Last night some 400-500 gathered to listen to some of the best southern gospel music in the state. Then several gathered at the local Denny's for a late night meal. Can I tell you that this singer slept good last night!

I hope you can make plans to join us for the rest of FGMA. Also, plan to stay connected with Trust-Worthy News.

FGMA Reminder

Here's a reminder of the FGMA Convention Labor Day weekend in Wimauma, FL. Lots of Southern Gospel music and preaching by Randy Perry. Trust Quartet will be singing on Sunday night at 6 o'clock. For complete information, click here. We'll look forward to seeing you there!

Trust Quartet Celebrates with New Day Music Ministries

Trust Quartet spent a great (albeit, LONG) day Saturday. Together with Simple Faith Trio, King's Royal Heirs, and comedian Hoss McLeod, Trust Quartet celebrated with our friends, New Day Music Ministries at their 6th Anniversary concert. First Baptist Church of Eagle Lake, FL was the site for the three-hour concert and those who attended were treated to a night full of music and comedy. Trust Quartet would like to thank New Day for inviting us to be a part of the celebration and congratulates them on six years of ministry. We wish for them many more years of spreading the Gospel and building the Kingdom through music. Here's a picture of Trust during our sound check before the concert. You'll notice we're wearing TRUST T-shirts. Those are the very ones that are available at all our concerts and via our website for only $15 (plus S/H if ordering from trustquartet.com).

Schedule

The e-mail inboxes have been busy! That means you should check our website and go to our 'Schedule' page and see the updates. We are booking early and often, friends! If Trust Quartet is going to be near you, please make plans to come by and say hello. Speaking of our schedule, let me remind you about a couple of things coming up quickly. Saturday night, August 11, we will be at First Baptist Church of Eagle Lake in Bartow, FL. We will be helping our friends, New Day Music Ministries celebrate their anniversary. There will be four groups plus a comedian there ~ it's gonna be a big night, and LOTS of fun! Then, Labor Day weekend, the Florida Gospel Music Association will have our annual convention at the Church of God Campgrounds in Wimauma, FL. There will be concerts on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights. There will also be a church service on Sunday morning with Randy Perry (formerly of the family singing group, The Perrys) doing the preaching. You can see all the details for both these concerts on the 'Special Events' page of our website.

Prayer Requests

Please be praying for Mark Joiner. Mark is Rhonda's son (Buzz and Beverly's grandson) who was involved in the boating accident earlier this spring. He had returned to work and was progressing, but took a fall at home Thursday night. He has significantly reinjured his surgically repaired knee and will require more surgery Monday. (This past sentence was brought to you by the letter 'R'!) Also, a dear friend of Trust Quartet, Ernie, in the Daytona area has suffered a heart attack and is now scheduled for open heart surgery. Thank you for praying with us for these friends and family of Trust Quartet.

New Products for Trust Quartet

I wanted to let you know about some exciting new products now at the Trust Quartet product table ~ and soon to be available online! Those of you who have been to our concerts lately already know about our selection of Christian T-shirts and caps. We now have TRUST T-shirts! Be watching this blog and our website for some photos of them and how to order them. I can tell you that the shirts are $15 plus $3 shipping / handling. If you're like me, and need that extra size (3X and larger) to be more comfortable, those are $17. But hey, even though there's more material involved, if you order online, we'll still only ask for $3 to ship it to your doorstep ~ or your post office box ~ whichever will get it to you faster. (What can I say ~ we aim to please!) More news will be coming soon so keep watching. Thanks, friends!

Just a Note of Greetings!

I wanted to stop by the Trust-Worthy News blog today to just basically say hello. I talked to Buzz a few minutes last night and while we don't have any concerts in July, there are some exciting news happening in the next few weeks. Some of you have noted in the past few months a special sign at our product table about a paint job for the bus. Praise the Lord, the bus will likely get that needed paint job in the next few weeks! Thank you to those who have helped make this possible! The group also continues to work hard to learn some new music. While a date for a recording has not been scheduled (so please don't get your hopes up for a new CD next month), we are striving to get back to see ole George before long. Please keep us in yoru prayers as we endeavor to make that happen. Keep an eye on our schedule and be sure to come see us when we roll into your area. Remember the New Day Music Ministries anniversary is coming on Saturday, August 11 in Eagle Lake. Also, FGMA Convention is Labor Day weekend in Wimauma. We're so looking forward to seeing a lot of our friends at these places. Thanks for your continued prayerful support!

Trust Quartet Events

I got home a few hours ago from a Trust Quartet rehearsal. We got together at the Okeechobee Church of God and sang for a couple of hours. Then, we went invaded Golden Corral and feasted a little while. It was a good rehearsal. There are some of our friends who have been so kind to us during our last few concerts ~ listening to us sing some songs that are brand new. Please understand, most of the time when we put a new song in a concert, it's just that. A new song ~ singular! Some of our recent concerts have had three and four brand new songs in 'em! And guess what? They sounded brand new! But our friends have been SO kind and encouraged us along the way. THANK YOU!! This rehearsal was focusing more on those songs and trying to get them where you can enjoy hearing them without cringing while you do it. Can I be honest with you? Music rehearsals can be monotonous. They are hard work. Sometimes it's hard to concentrate and focus for that length of time. But honesty compels me to also tell you that it is some of the most rewarding and enjoyable time as well. We are able to bond as a group, as a family. Speaking of family, we were honored to have little Braylee with us. (Rhonda, if I spelled her name wrong, let me know and I'll correct it!) She is the two year old great-granddaughter of Buzz and Beverly. OK, she's Rhonda and Jeff's granddaughter. She had her first ride on the bus, too! Good grief, I just looked at the clock on the bottom of the computer. I think it's time to get some sleep. Church starts in just a few hours!

Concert at New Hope Baptist in Moore Haven Is Postponed

Hey friends ~ I wanted to let you know that the concert at New Hope Baptist Church in Moore Haven, FL has been postponed. It was supposed to have happened this coming Sunday morning (June 24) but due to overwhelming sickness throughout the church, they've asked if we can reschedule. Obviously, we will do our best to accomodte the good folks there. Please remember to lift them in prayer and for their good pastor as he shepherds the flock there.

Here's An Update on Rhonda's Son, Mark

A couple of weeks ago, Trust Quartet put our friends and family on high prayer alert. Rhonda's son (Buzz and Beverly's grandson), Mark was involved in a serious airboat accident. He was life-flighted to a hospital where he underwent emergency surgery. Another young man was killed in the accident and everyone was obviously very concerned about Mark. We asked our friends to pray and you did. We are so thankful for friends like you and for a God who lovingly and graciously heals. I asked Rhonda to give me an update to share with you, so she talked to her daughter-in-law, Mark's wife, Brooke. This is what we've learned. He only has to use his crutches when he walks long distances and the swelling is doing good. He has an appointment with an orthopedic doctor later this month and hopefully will be put into a lockable brace to allow bending his knee just a bit. She went on to say he's trying to be superman! The extent of the injuries to his knee were scary. His knee essentially had to be rebuilt. He also had numerous facial lacerations requiring stitches. Grandma Beverly added, "He looks amazing compared to 2 1/2 weeks ago!! God is good!! Stitches are out of his face and staples are out of his leg." The Trust Family thanks you so much for your prayers and ask that you continue to pray for Mark and Brooke . . . as well as mom and grandma.

The Reason I Sing!

Jim, Chad, Bruce, and Steve. Two brothers (Jim and Chad), their cousin (Bruce), and the preacher's kid ~ the only one left. That was the first quartet I sang in. We were barely older than toddlers at the time. Back in the late 60's / early 70's in a little Southwest Georgia town of Colquitt. The one thing I remember about that is singing that old hymn, The Old Account Was Settled and all four of us singing the BASS part so we could say 'Hallelujah' in the chorus! My love for music truly started as a very small child. Then there was Billy and George. They were brothers in the next church my dad pastored in Hazelhurst, GA. Yep, we sang together and I remember going to the local radio station and singing back then, too. I suppose that's what gave me a love for radio work to go along with singing Southern Gospel Music. It took me a while to figure out how those quartets made it to all those radio stations like they did! (Incidentally, I did get it figured out in time to play lots of 45s and 33s on the radio before modern technology took over!) My dad, sister, and I used to sing a lot as a trio, too. It was not uncommon at all to gather around our piano and sing when I was growing up. When my sister was visiting with us earlier this month, we reminisced a little bit about those days. I remember before that voice changing thing hit me, I'd sing Johnny Cook's part on Looking For A City ~ and I'd sing it higher than my sister could! Oh, then the voice change. Talk about nasty for a young teenaged boy! Whew! By my junior year in high school, I was able to sing in the Glennville High School quartet. I sang baritone that year and we did OK. It wasn't great, but we did OK. Our bass singer (Felles) graduated after that year, and the other three of us (Jimmy, Greg, and me) were rising seniors. We had another senior (Scott) join us, and I sang bass in the high school quartet my senior year. We won our region and went on to place fourth in the State of Georgia High School Literary Competition. We were excited! There have been other quartets and groups I've been able to sing with through the years. Whether in college, in 'scrap-iron' quartets, or with other family groups, music has ALWAYS played a huge role in my life. Now to be able to sing with Trust Quartet though, has been a dream come true. I've been singing as long as I can remember. It is a passion of mine and I'm grateful God has allowed me to do that. I've learned many lessons and continue to learn. I've met many people and I'm still amazed at the people I meet traveling to various places to sing. Whatever God has given you the ability and the passion to do, be encouraged to do it 'heartily as to the Lord!' He's the reason I sing! And yes, there's a song in there somewhere!

June Newsletter

This is the latest Newsletter that is posted at www.trustquartet.com. Just for information's sake, the 'statement above' is referencing this blog. At least now, maybe you don't think I'm COMPLETELY nuts. (Just maybe SOME nuts!) The statement above is the latest rage from Trust Quartet! Well, maybe not a rage, but it is new and I hope you'll make full use of it. The TrustWorthy News Blog edition will contain these articles plus a lot more! Yes, you can send us e-mails and post on our Guestbook here at our website, and you're encouraged to do that! But the Blog edition will allow you to comment on a post that may be of particular interest to you. It will also feature a few more shorter articles and news items that pertain to Trust Quartet that may not be on this website. You can also subscribe to the blog by entering your e-mail address and each time there is a new article (or post), you will be notified by e-mail. Trust is getting good response from the new songs we're singing in concerts these days. People are being gracious to let us practice on 'em, too! The classics, or should I say, Classics Made New, songs are still received well, and we thank you for your response to those as well. I'll put it this way, as long as you want to come hear us sing 'em, we'll sure be glad to do it! Let me give you a couple of things on our schedule to watch for. Saturday night, August 11, we're looking forward to helping New Day Music Ministries celebrate their homecoming. We'll be with them at First Baptist Church in Eagle Lake. The concert is scheduled to begin at 6 o'clock. Also, Labor Day weekend, make plans to be at the Church of God campgrounds in Wimauma for the Florida Gospel Music Association Convention. We'll be singing on Sunday night this year and we're already looking forward to being there. It is always great to be able to be with our friends from around the state who enjoy singing Gospel Music like we do. You can learn more about each of these great events here. We have one more concert before the summer break in Moore Haven. Check out our schedule and make plans to be with us either there or at another place near you. As always, we covet your prayers for our safety and the ministry. Until next time ~~~ Y'all Keep On Singing!

Steve's Family Visits

It's been a few days since I last posted. That's because it has been a bit hectic! My youngest daughter graduated from High School last weekend, so I spent a good bit of time helping get things ready around home for the company coming in. This week has been spent recuperating from all the whirlwind of activity! It was good to have my family in town for the graduation and they were able to go to Mercy Church of God in Cocoa to be with us for the concert this past Sunday morning. We had a good service, good food, and good fellowship ~ what more could anyone ask for?! This is a picture of my sister, Lynette and me before the concert Sunday morning. Beverly took it and she did a great job because if you look between my sister and me, you'll see my mom sitting with her husband listening to us singing. Be sure to check the website in the next couple of days for a few more new pictures that should be posted. We'll be back on the singing trail in a few weeks but between now and then, I'll try to keep you posted with all things Trust!

Trust Quartet To Sing During Sunday Night Concert at FGMA

Hey folks, please make plans to be with us in Wimauma over Labor Day! It's going to be a blast as we join together with dozens of Gospel Music folks from across Florida. The Florida Gospel Music Association will have their annual convention Friday through Sunday night before Labor Day. Concerts will begin at 6:00 PM each night and preaching on Saturday and Sunday morning by Randy Perry. Trust Quartet will be singing on Sunday night this year. You can check out the poster at trustquartet.com or at fgma.org. Our friends, New Day Music Ministries and the Florida Sunshine Boys will also be there ~~ along with many more! Lodging is available on site at either hotel or RV hookups. You won't want to miss this exciting weekend!

Memorial Day

Don Sutton, Major League Baseball Hall of Famer verbalized a sentiment I've long felt, but never said. Essentially, he said he didn't like to hear, 'Happy Memorial Day.'

This is a holiday that we honor the memory of those service men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice. We owe a debt of extreme gratitude to these who have paid for our freedom. We are indeed blessed.

Update on Mark

I just got off the phone with Rhonda. When I asked her how I (we) could pray more effectively for Mark, she mentioned to me that he's struggling with both physical pain and emotional pain. This was a two airboat crash. Another young man was killed instantly and Mark is also dealing with the stress and trauma of losing a friend and co-worker. Physically, while in a lot of pain, he is recovering as well as can be expected. Rhonda and Jeff, along with Buzz and Bev do thank all our Trust friends for lifting them up in prayer.

Special Friends Join Trust Quartet

It's always flattering to have people follow Trust Quartet around to various cities when we're close-by. There are several folks who surprise us from time to time. We were REALLY SURPRISED this past Sunday while singing in Lakeport, FL at the Maple Grove Baptist Church and again at the Midway Road Baptist Church in Ft. Pierce. The Johnstons from Cullman, ALABAMA were at both those concerts! This incredible couple spend a good portion of the winter in South Florida and made the trip back from Alabama to visit with us this past weekend. We put some new songs (yes, that's plural) in the concert and they still came back on Sunday night. Bless their hearts, we sure do love 'em! Keep watching our schedule and if we're within 350 miles of you, come on out and visit with us!

Trust~Worthy News: May 2012

It's the wee hours of the morning as I'm typing this edition of Trust-Worthy News. I'm listening to some music that Trust Quartet is learning and about to put into our concerts. The result of that is I'm being challenged two fold. Yes, I'm stretching my mind and memory to try to remember lyrics; but more importantly than that, I'm being spiritually challenged by those lyrics. Our concert schedule has slowed considerably now that many of our friends have begun their Northern pilgrimage. I had to insert that word, 'concert' before schedule for a reason. I left my home church the past two weeks headed to Okeechobee to rehearse these new songs. One Sunday as I was leaving the parking lot, a friend asked what I was going to do that afternoon. My reply was something along the lines of, "I'm going to Okeechobee to sing a few hours." That's precisely what I did. We sang ~~ and sang ~~ and sang a little more. When we thought we were about to wrap it up, yep, we sang some more! Did I mention that I love to sing? I say that to remind you that while we have not been actively doing concerts for a couple of weeks, we are alive and well . . . and busy. The folks who attend our next few concerts will see the fruits of those labors. When you come, though, prepare to be challenged. When you come, prepare to worship. As always, please pray for Trust Quartet. Pat is constantly working to fill our schedule. If you are interested in having Trust Quartet in your area, please contact her and get that ball rolling. Ultimately, we desire your prayers. Trust Quartet covers many miles and we have been so blessed with safety. We do not take that lightly. Also, please pray that we will remember the things we have practiced. It is no joke that learning new music is tough sometimes. And pray that we will be good stewards of the financial blessings we have been entrusted with.

Trust Quartet took some time to pose for the camera before singing at the Church of the Brethren in Basinger, FL. In this picture, you see (from left to right) Steve, Rhonda, Spence, Parm, and of course that's Buzz hiding behind the shades! Seriously, Buzz wasn't trying to hide, it just kinda happened that way. Thanks for praying for the Trust Family. We love you!!

Urgent Prayer Request!

Please remember Rhonda's son, Mark in your prayers. He was involved in a serious boating accident Thursday, May 24. He was airlifted to a hospital in Ft. Myers, FL where he underwent surgery. Obviously, this is a great concern to the Trust family. Please keep Rhonda and Jeff as well as Buzz and Beverly in your prayers. Updates will be made available as possible.

Earlier Editions of Trust~Worthy News, Pt. 2

From November 2011 Right now I'm sitting on the Trust bus, winding down from a typical Trust Quartet day. We left Okeechobee and headed a bit north, stopped and ate supper along the way. While we were eating supper, we enjoyed visiting with our server, Destiny. We made it to our destination, unloaded the bus and did our sound check. Then for two hours, we sang. A Trust Quartet rehearsal can quickly turn into a time of worship. When Rhonda started singing with Trust, we also invited Parm Bailey, a dear Trust alumnus to come along and sing some of the older songs with us. One of the songs we have started singing again is taken from the 101st Psalm, "I will look unto the hills from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord." As we sang that song tonight, I closed my eyes and thought how God wants to protect us, to help us. Then we sang another song that we will begin to put back in the concerts ~ I Rest My Case At The Cross. As we sang that song, we went from rehearsing to worshipping. We sang it time and again, and I honestly believe we sang it more because of the way the song ministered to us than the rehearsal value. Back to the bus, and I'm listening to stories being swapped. We've told some jokes and laughed. More importantly, we were able to share around God's Word. What I've just described is a typical day on the Trust Bus. We spend quality time rehearsing and singing, but we are a family that enjoys spending time together. We genuinely love one another. October was a month of learning one another. The group transformation has taken on a new life and it is exciting. The response to our concerts has been positive. We were fortunate to be with our friends, Simple Faith Trio to celebrate their Fourth Anniversary. Our friends, New Day also sang with us as well as some surprise guests. The concert was great, but then we all invaded Steak and Shake ~~~ 'nuff said! Columbus and LaGrange, GA came along on the schedule, and although it was a long trip, we enjoyed some real bonding time. E.W. and Mary Rawlins, Bev's brother and his wife along with some family were able to be with us in Columbus. My Uncle Terry and his wife Sue were able to be with us for a concert in LaGrange. Family and some close friends made this trip extra special. Oh, and three concerts in 24 hours and an all night trip back has a tendency to build relationships quickly! Anthony, FL hosted Trust Quartet for a Saturday night and Sunday morning at the Anthony United Methodist Church. We are thankful for the opportunity to minister to the dear friends there and look forward to a trip back real soon. It was Round-Up Day in Port Charlotte, FL to wrap up the month of October. A record attendance came to Berean Baptist Church to celebrate! Oh, and you'll not find any better BBQ than what was slow-grilled that day! Is there a GLORY in the house?? As you listen to Classics Made New (you HAVE gotten your copy now, right?), the first song you'll hear is one Bill and Gloria Gaither wrote, Loving God, Loving Each Other. Friends, that honestly describes Trust Quartet. We love God, we love each other, and we love you who help us in this ministry. Without you, it simply would not be possible. As we prepare to get in the bunks, and sing in the morning, we look forward to seeing what God will accomplish. This is a typical day in the life of Trust. And as we move along the road, please come see us when you can, and most of all, pray for us as we minister.

Earlier Editions of Trust~Worthy News, Part 1

Here's a Trust~Worthy News from August 2011... Trust Quartet sang Sunday night, July 31 at the First Free Will Baptist Church in Auburndale, FL. We had a great time. I know several folks at that church, and it was good to be with them and introduce them to Trust Quartet. The match was a good one! When the concert was over, we went to Kentucky Fried Chicken in Auburndale to celebrate Buzz and Bev's anniversary. Friends, if you are ever in the Auburndale area, please go by and patronize those good folks! Mr. Owen and the staff there at KFC went out of their way to make our visit a good one. And so, if you're in the area and want some of the Colonel's best, tell 'em that group that sang for 'em late on that Sunday night sent you. It was finger-lickin' good! As Gary, Buzz, and Bev sat around a restaurant table in Vero Beach recently (don't worry, Spence had his own private time with the bossman), we were talking about former members of Trust Quartet. There have been quite a few, and they each have a special place and provide memories to Buzz and Bev, in particular. We had met to pick up a preview copy of Classics Made New ~ the copies for us to listen to and offer our approval for the duplication process to begin. I was already thinking about this newsletter and knew it would be a bit shorter than ususal. I couldn't help but think about what we were able to enjoy today. Some sang only a brief time, some sang for several years. Each will always be a part of the Trust Quartet legacy. In that respect, they each played a special role in this latest recording effort. Speaking of Classics Made New, word from George at Shelton Sound is that the master has been mailed to the duplication house. There are many steps to releasing such a project and it is quite tedious at times. It seems we are always in a 'hurry up and wait' mode. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the release will not be as long as it has been, and trust me when I write, we're ALL excited about it! We think you'll be just as excited to hear the finished product! If you haven't ordered yours yet, please go ahead and send a check for $16.50 ($15 + $1.50 S/H) to Trust Quartet, and we'll get that right out to you as soon as we get it. As I prepare to close the newsletter this month, let me ask you to earnestly pray for Trust this month. Although we are not singing on stage in August, we are involved in several activities to prepare ourselves for those concerts that will begin in September. Thank you for remembering the Trust family in your prayers. God knows all the needs we have and will meet them according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus!