Features Editor

BRUNDIDGE – The annual Peanut Butter Festival in Brundidge is an invitation to

"come back to the way it used to be" and what better way to end a journey than with a big dose of that old-time religion.

At 7 p.m. Wednesday, the 11th Annual Peanut Butter Festival will come to a close with a Brush Arbor Singing at the Knox Ryals Pavilion in downtown Brundidge.

Even though there is no need for the brush arbor for this after-sundown singing, the brush arbor spirit still abounds on this special night in town.

People come from all around the county for this congregational sing-along sponsored

by First National Bank of Brundidge.

"This year the Brush Arbor Singing will have more significance because of the Sept. 11 attacks on America," said Jimmy Ramage, bank CEO, "A feeling of patriotism is sweeping the nation and people want to a part of it. So, we have asked the Pride of Pike band from Pike County High School to begin playing at 6:30 p.m as people

arrive for the singing. They will play a mix of a patriotic tunes and spirituals. Having them play for us will be a real treat."

Refreshments will be served prior to the singing, but, once the singing begins, everyone is asked to join in.

The Brush Arbor Singing will begin promptly at 7 p.m. The Rev. Carl Hollis of County Line Baptist Church and the Rev. Richard Holmes of Brundidge United Methodist Church will lead the devotionals and Danny Graham will lead the singing.

Bleachers will be provided for seating, but many people prefer the comfort of lawn chairs. Those who do are asked to bring chairs and put them in front of the bleachers so they will not be blocked from the stage and the song leader.

Drawings will be held for doors prizes and everyone may enter.

"The Brush Arbor Singing is always a popular event and we hope to have a big crowd in Brundidge tomorrow night for this event," Ramage said. "Everyone is invited and everyone is welcome."