In every community, there are devoted people behind the scenes helping to make the folk music scene vibrant, thriving by keeping the wheels rolling. Whether it's a longtime volunteer at a folk club or house concert series, a festival or venue director, a local folk radio host, or a writer who reviews CDs or concerts - one common thread is that these people love the music. They are passionate about serving artists and fans and making sure the folk scene in their community is strong and active.

We chose the name Folk Spokes from listener submissions for Folk Alley's new feature because spokes support wheels while connecting an unbroken circle of the best of musical traditions. Folk Spokes is an opportunity for you to nominate the unsung individuals (or spokes) in your community and to give them a well-deserved moment in the spotlight.

Jim Colbert

I nominate Jim Colbert from Bellefonte, Pennsylvania as this month's Folk Spoke for his many contributions to our local folk community. Jim is active in numerous musical events and organizations here in central Pennsylvania, including the Acoustic Brew Concert Series, Greenwood Folk Gathering, Folk College, Wordstock, and is a Folk Show DJ on our local public radio station, WPSU.

Jim has taught workshops on songwriting, the music of the Carter Family, and Pennsylvania songs. Jim also hosts a monthly open mic event in Bellefonte, an event which welcomes and encourages both seasoned performers and neophytes and typically donates any tips to a local charity. At last count, 8 people have played for the first time in public under Jim's supportive watch, something he's especially proud of.

In addition to all that's been mentioned so far, Jim is a darn fine songwriter. He first played his songs in public two days before his fortieth birthday and has since opened for or shared the stage with Red Molly, Sparky & Rhoda Rucker, Deirdre Flint, Joe Crookston, Small Potatoes, Simple Gifts, Pat Wictor and Cheryl Prashker, and more.

Jim is an invaluable resource in our local folk community.

Nominated By: Doug Irwin from Bellefonte, Pennsylvania

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