First Key West Retreat was a Success!
Operation Song®, in partnership with Papa’s Pilar Rum, held its first retreat & performance in Key West, Florida. The retreat featured several new local songwriters, along with Operation Song’s® own Pete Sallis. The writing took place at the distillery on November 14th, and the veterans songs were performed the following day. Joe Forte warmed up the crowd with an 80’s set list that rocked, and Storme Warren did a phenomenal job as emcee for both performances.
Songs written and performed include:
“Brothers in Arms,” written by veterans Juan Llera and Abe Conn with songwriter Kurt Stevens
“Hemingway,” written by Mark Vitale with songwriter, Pete Sallis
“In The Dark Blue,” written by Michele Dravidian with songwriters Larry Baedar and Channing Griggs
Kurt Stevens (songwriter) stole the show with the song he wrote with veterans Juan Llera & Abe Conn, titled “Brothers in Arms.” Key West is very pro-military, and we were able to make several connections that will help us grow the program within the community. Papa’s Pilar Rum was an exceptional host, and we look forward to continuing this relationship in 2024.
Trisha (2nd from right) and her crew from Papa’s Pilar Rum Distillery.