Welcome to the 34th Annual Frank Brown International Songwriters' Festival

Special thanks to folks who have served in our Festival in the past. Including but not limited
to past Directors Brucie Glassell and Kent Sanderson. Peggy Butler, widow of Larry Butler, is
a huge influence in getting great musicians and connections within the music business. Also,
Richard Hartley, our esteemed Legal advisor, and a BIG thank you to both Linda Ponder
and PatsyAnne Stout for their years of dedication and volunteering. Linda and PatsyAnne
exemplify all that is great about the heart of the Festival and helping in the community.
We will always remember Mr. Frank Brown, the Flora-Bama night watchman, for whom the
Festival is named.
Our special thanks to songwriters who have always taken the time to come to our community
and share their passion and love of music with us.
This year, we make a special effort to acknowledge those of Native American Heritage and
have participated in the Festival. Wild Bill Emerson (a legendary character) well represents the
20+ writers of Native American Heritage in our Festival. We would like to remind everyone
that November is Native American Heritage Month.
Thank you to the venues, organizations and individuals who consistently go above and beyond
to help promote and donate financially to the Festival. Thank you to all the listeners who
eagerly attend venues each year to enjoy almost 2 weeks of original lyrics and music.
Unfortunately, each year we lose some of our writers and volunteers including long-time
festival participant C.J. Watson and dedicated attendee/volunteer, Ross Reishus, whose widow
Beverly continues to participate in the Festival.
In closing, we hope those who take part in FBISF this year including songwriters, volunteers,
and guests, go forth into the world and spread some cheer—the world needs it!
We are proud to bring these good people together in our community.
Joe Gilchrist
Pat McClellan
John McInnis
Cam Price
22 | FBISF.COM