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Jack Latta

Staff Writer

NASHVILLE — Three young girls recently took to the stage in Nashville, bringing home several awards and accolades to their native Eastern Kentucky.

Celeste Turner, of Prestonsburg, along with Maranda and Ryan Finney, of Paintsville, recently participated in the Georgia Country Gospel Music Association and the Tennessee Country Gospel Music Association awards show Sept. 2 at the famous Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

Celeste Turner, 12, won two awards in the New Country Division, “Best Female Vocalist of the Year” and “Best Video of the Year.” Turner also had an opportunity to perform on stage during the awards show.

Maranda Finney, 14, was also a nominee in the Gospel Division, and won “Gospel Video of the Year,” “Gospel Entertainer of the Year” and “Most Promising Vocalist of the Year.” Her younger brother, Ryan, also won two awards at the show.

All three will all now advance to the “North American Country Music Association International” competition, which will be held on March 10-17, in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., at the the Country Tonight Theater.

The goal of the TCGMA is to educate and prepare aspiring artists, songwriters and musicians in country, gospel and bluegrass. The association showcases of some of the most talented artist in the Southeast Region. Their chapter is represented by artists from seven states.

Members are given the opportunity throughout the year to showcase their talents through performing, submitting original music, videos, and CDs to be judged on the state level for the opportunity to compete for a National Title in Pigeon Forge Tennessee the first week in March . They are competing with the other state chapters from across the U.S and 3 foreign countries.

Maranda and Ryan Finney are the children of John Finney and Dr. Angela Maggard, of Paintsville.

Celeste Turner is the daughter of Brent and Angel Turner, of Prestonsburg.