As of their last correspondence, Terry and Connie Nelson had been in Ghana, Africa for 639 days of a three-year mission.

Saturday, August 14, 1999

As of their last correspondence, Terry and Connie Nelson had been in Ghana, Africa for 639 days of a three-year mission.

When they’re not performing mission work, Terry, the former Pacelli High School principal, and Connie write home regularly.

By holding a benefit concert tonight, Tony Alonso & Friends hope to mail something back to the Nelsons.

"They’re always in dire need of money over there," Alonso said. "They especially need it for the kids. From what I’ve heard the men are fed first, then the women, then the kids."

Alonso and nine of his friends will perform a one-and-a-half hour concert, Songs of Spirit, at 7 p.m. at St. Augustine’s Church.

Alonso will be joined on stage by his sister Laurie Alonso, Erin McHugh, Lindsey Kroc, Erin Kroc, Chris Larson, Vanessa Schrandt, Kelly Jones, Bryan Larson and James Gregg.

The singers, all teens and young adults, will draw from a variety of inspirational material, including one song in Spanish and a couple of African spirituals.

The format will be "solos interspersed with people singing together," Alonso said.

"We’ve rehearsed every night this week," said Alonso, who will also play the piano.

The whole show was produced at no cost.

"The main thing is all of the money goes directly into the Nelson’s mission," Alonso said.

Alonso is hoping to see a couple hundred people turn out for the concert. Tickets are $5 for adults and $3 for children and can be purchased at the door.