The Mid America Gospel Music Association recently  presented their Lifetime Achievement Award to Gary O'Neal and Kent Mathes. The  presentation took place on November 3rd and 4th at the 18th Annual MAGMA convention. Both of these men have been involved in the association since it's inception and are charter board members. 

Gary O'Neal has been involved in Gospel Music for the last 47 years and has served as president of MAGMA for the last 10 years.  He currently sings with the Wanda Mountain Boys.  His career highlights include singing with full time groups, the Brashears and Solid Gospel. He is also an established songwriter and  has had several songs recorded by a number of major Southern Gospel artists.

Kent Mathes has been involved in Gospel Music for 36 years.  His career highlights include singing with the Fox Brothers, a full time quartet based in Nashville, TN, and being featured on the top 10 single, "It's Time For Love".  He managed and performed with the popular midwest quartet, Crimson Gold for 28 years.

The MAGMA board would like to congratulate these two gentlemen for their service in the Gospel Music field and to the association.