2022 Beaufort Water Festival Magazine by Todd Stowe

Letter from THE COMMODORE

Welcome to the 66th Annual Beaufort Water Festival! I have the distinct honor and privilege to serve as this year’s Commodore. Since 1956, our community has celebrated alongside family and friends, making memories at this time-honored tradition.

The Festival could not exist without the kindness and generosity of our sponsors. Each year, local and national businesses along with benefactors make generous donations to ensure the Festival lives up to its rich tradition of providing top-notch entertainment, sporting events, arts and crafts and fun for all ages on land and on sea – all at a reasonable price.

I would like to thank the community, military, and civic organizations and the hundreds of volunteers who so generously give their time to support the Festival.

We hope you enjoy the traditions that this wonderful, beautiful, and historic city by the sea has to offer at the 66th Annual Beaufort Water Festival! We are proud of our mission to promote the natural and scenic beauty of Beaufort and the surrounding areas.

On behalf of the entire Water Festival Crew, thank you for supporting the Water Festival. We look forward to seeing you. We could all use some “Fun, Sun, and Vitamin Sea!”

Commodore 66th Annual Beaufort Water Festival

The 66th Annual Beaufort Water Festival Commodore, Shawna Doran with husband, Brett, son, Colton, and daughter, Ava.

Photo by Shawn Hill Photography

Welcome From the MayorStephen Murray

Dear Friends and Visitors,

On behalf of Beaufort City Council, City Manager Bill Prokop, and the men and women of Team Beaufort, Welcome to the 66th Annual Beaufort Water Festival!

Commodore Shawna Doran and her dedicated team of volunteers have an outstanding festival planned for us to enjoy. We’re fortunate to have so many remarkable folks willing to give their time and energy to produce the quality and quantity of events and activities that our region has enjoyed for over half a century.

I hope you will join me in thanking the Beaufort Water Festival volunteers as you encounter them during the festival this year.

I consider the Annual Water Festival Beaufort’s annual Homecoming. A time for residents, guests, and former Beaufortonians that have returned for a visit to celebrate our many blessings. Our pristine natural resources, sensitively preserved historic structures, warm southern hospitality, and authentic sense of community give us much to be thankful for.

Enjoy yourself, look out for each other, and here’s to “Sun, Fun, and Vitamin Sea”!

Mayor City of Beaufort

Opening CEREMONY

Opening Ceremony kicks off the 10-day Beaufort Water Festival and is the favored event for many festival goers. It’s a chance for fellowship with friends, a time to enjoy good music, and fireworks. And it doesn’t hurt that - as always - it’s a free event for the community.

The noise you hear isn’t always just the sound of freedom – sometimes it can be the melody brought out by the trumpets and trombones with the steady backbeat of the timpani. You know the Beaufort Water Festival has officially started once you see the Parris Island Marine Band on the stage, and this year will be no different. The 66th Annual Beaufort Water Festival will once again feature the Parris Island Marine Band at the Opening Ceremony on July 15th.

The band was established on October 28, 1915, not long after the breakout of World War I. Musicians originally doubled as marksmanship instructors, while close combat instructors provided support for various units on the depot. Hitting the high notes in the mornings led to hitting the targets in the afternoons with the quick exchange of instruments for weapons.

Today, the Marines of the Parris Island Marine Band make up the concert band, marching/ceremonial band, brass band, brass quintet and a jazz combo. The Parris Island Marine Band’s primary mission is to provide musical support for recruit graduations and other military ceremonies and events. In addition to playing at approximately 40 recruit graduations each year, the band also performs concerts and parades across the United States. The band was also a 2009 and 2013 recipient of the Col. George S. Howard Citation for Musical Excellence for Military Concert Bands.

In addition to the concert band on Friday night, the jazz ensemble will also perform. Comprised of 15-20 Parris Island Marines, the ensemble performs Jazz, Swing, Rock and other various styles of contemporary music for public performances. Most of the tunes are universally recognizable and always an enjoyable highlight of the Festival’s Opening Ceremony.

At dusk, the music gives way momentarily to the display of fireworks over the Beaufort River that will be once again be provided by Munnerlyn Pyrotechnics, South Carolina’s premiere pyrotechnics company. The fireworks display can be seen from the downtown Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park, the Beaufort River, the bluff overlooking the river and various points in between.

“We’re looking forward to another exciting start to festival week,” explained Cely Johnson, Production Coordinator.

The Parris Island Marine Band will perform at the Opening Ceremony on Friday, July 15. Gates open at 6 pm. The ceremony begins at 7 pm, with fireworks at dusk.

Photo by Shawn Hill Photography

The 66th Commodore, Shawna Doran, is a Registered Nurse and Vice President of Quality for Beaufort Memorial Hospital. Shawna started volunteering with the Beaufort Water Festival in 1999. Shawna and her husband, Brett, own Lohr Plumbing, Inc. They have two children, Colton and Ava.

QUESTIONS FOR THE COMMODORE

BWF: What’s new for the 66th Annual Beaufort Water Festival?

SD: We have not changed anything as for actual events, but we have moved to electronic ticketing for our nightly entertainment. Most if not all concerts and/or festivals have moved to electronic tickets, and we decided it was time to do the same.

BWF: How did you come up with the theme for this year’s Beaufort Water Festival?

SD: Since I am a nurse, I wanted to have something in the theme related to health while tying in the essence of the festival’s fun in the sun! After discussing with my daughter Ava and my cousin, Jana Guard, she came up with the theme, “Fun, Sun, & Vitamin Sea.”

BWF: What drew you to be a BWF volunteer and has what kept you coming back?

SD: In 1999, I was working as a paralegal for Tupper, Grimsley, and Dean and Erin Dean, who was a BWF volunteer asked me if I wanted to volunteer. That year, I worked with the different civic organizations, from pouring beer and checking ID’s. I took a few years off when I had my children but came back and the rest is history. The camaraderie and friendship I made through the years is really what drew me back each year. The BWF crew is truly like family. They have seen my kids grow up and have been there for me through good times and the bad. It is a wonderful group of people that are born, bred, or blessed to be in Beaufort that make the Beaufort Water Festival so special.

BWF: Everyone is excited to get a new Water Festival t-shirt! How did you come up with the idea for this year’s design?

SD: Since it was the 66th year, I knew I wanted to do something different and a little retro but still show the beauty of Beaufort. I knew I wanted to have a First Responder to be the artist and I was able to work with the very talented Nathan Callander who is a veteran and a firefighter Hunter Army Airfield Fire Department in Savannah, Georgia.

BWF: Beaufort Water Festival volunteers usually change jobs every year. What position has been your favorite?

SD: My favorite position was Productions. In Productions you deal with all the evening entertainment, opening ceremonies, fireworks, and Children’s Day. It gives you a great perspective on the multiple wheels turning to make the festival a success.

BWF: What is your favorite event at the Beaufort Water Festival?

SD: My favorite event would be Opening Ceremony. I love to see the military flyover, color guard, boy scouts, Parris Island Marine Corps Band and ending with the fireworks as the official start of the festival. It is a homecoming for many and just a quintessential hometown feeling.

BWF: How do you balance the Beaufort Water Festival with the demands of being a vice president at Beaufort Memorial Hospital?

SD: I have a wonderful team at the hospital and Beaufort Memorial has always been so supportive of my volunteerism with the festival. They have always encouraged their employees to volunteer and sponsor many organizations/events across the county to include the Festival.

BWF: What, so far, has been your favorite Commodore moment?

SD: So far, my favorite moment was Commodores Ball and dancing on stage with my family. I danced with my husband, Brett and then we switched so I got to dance with my son Colton and my daughter Ava danced with her Dad on stage and it was a special moment for us all.

Photo by Shawn Hill Photography

BEAUFORT WATER FESTIVAL SPONSORS BEAUFORT WATER FESTIVAL

ADMIRAL OF THE FLEET

FLEET ADMIRAL

FLEET CAPTAIN

ADMIRAL

Beaufort Water Festival

VICE ADMIRAL

REAR ADMIRAL

Beaufort Eye Center | Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices | Butler Marine, Inc. | Camping World of Ridgeland | Duke’s

CAPTAIN

COMMANDER

FRIENDS & FAMILY

FISHING TOURNAMENT

Title Sponsor: Beaufort Boat and Dock Supply

GOLF TOURNAMENT

Title Sponsor: MED-TRANS - Air Medical Transport Insurance: Sutcliffe Golf Cars | Longest Drive Sponsor: Beaufort Winlectric | Mulligan: Tucker Dry Cleaners

THE 2022 COORDINATORS THE 2022 COORDINATORS

PROGRAM

COORDINATOR:

James Nutt

A Beaufort native, this is James’ 16th year volunteering with the Beaufort Water Festival. He is an Operations Manager for CBM Concrete LLC, covering South Carolina, Georgia and North Carolina. His directors are John Hazel - Festival Director and Samantha Gay - Public Safety.

ADMIN COORDINATOR:

Cori Talbert

Cori works in the Media Center at Lady’s Island Middle School. Originally from Maryland, Cori and her husband Pat made Beaufort their forever home after Pat retired from the US Navy. They have three sons: Patrick, Zachary and Nicholas. Cori has been volunteering with the Beaufort Water Festival since 2009. Her Directors are Ramona Brown and Beth Woodring.

MERCHANDISE

COORDINATOR: Kyle Gentry

Kyle has been back with the festival since 2013 after exiting the military. Kyle and his wife Brandi have seven children, Bradley, Madison, Miya, Aubrey, Aniya, Kylie, and Beau. Kyle’s Directors are Melina Lee, Jeff Maxwell, Theresa Sense and Vonda Young.

PARKS COORDINATOR: Todd Stowe

Todd began volunteering for the Beaufort Water Festival in 1995. He is a teacher at Bridge Preparatory School. Todd and his wife, Patsy, have two children, Christy, and Jessie. Katie Jindrich, Frank Muller, Josh Taylor, and John Turbeville are the Parks Directors.

Beaufort Water Festival

The Beaufort Water Festival is the largest East Coast festival run by an all-volunteer staff. Planning for the Festival begins 10 months prior to Opening Ceremony and by the time the big day arrives, hundreds of volunteer hours have been invested by a dedicated team.

PR & MARKETING

COORDINATOR:

Josh Schott

Josh is a Beaufort native and is employed with Dominion Energy. He and his wife, Brooke, have two children, Joshua and Ava. Josh started volunteering with the Beaufort Water Festival 2001. His Directors are Renea Gray, Jessie Hazel, and Meghan Pierro.

TREASURER:

Shelley Kolb

Shelley is a 7th and 8th grade math teacher at Riverview Charter School. She and her husband, Jeff, have four children: Mabrey, Carter, Clara, and Tillman. This is Shelley’s 17th year volunteering with the Beaufort Water Festival. Meredith Keene is the Assistant Treasurer.

PRODUCTIONS

COORDINATOR:

Cely Johnson

Cely is a Beaufort native and a fifthgrade teacher at Beaufort Elementary School. She and her husband Ray have two daughters, Chandaa and Brinlee, and one grandson, Asher. This is Cely’s eighth year volunteering with the Beaufort Water Festival. Her directors are Dave Helmer, Alex Brautlacht and Tammy Crooks.

WATER AND AIR

COORDINATOR: Tony Serrato

Tony and his wife, Ruth, are the owners of Low Country Electronics. They reside on Hilton Head but are originally from Beaufort. Tony started volunteering with the Beaufort Water Festival in 2004 because of its community involvement and it allowed him to be close to his hometown. His Directors are Chas Jindrich and Jake Woolsey.

Heart of a VOLUNTEER

In case you didn’t know, the Beaufort Water Festival is an all-volunteer group. Without the help of dedicated volunteers like Tammy Crooks and Greg Godfrey the Festival couldn’t happen.

Displayed prominently at the pavilion of the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park is a bronze plaque that recognizes the tradition of the Beaufort Water Festival, especially the “spirit of the volunteer.” The late, great John Gentry, the 57th Commodore, was the driving force behind this important recognition because without the volunteers, who call themselves “Water Festival family,” the show simply would not go on.

To produce the Annual Beaufort Water Festival, there is a dedicated, well-organized team to carry out more than thirty events that the community enjoys. The Water Festival crew works year-round to plan every detail of every event to make sure they are safe and fun for all.

There is a reason the Water Festival is a successful, 66-year tradition. The community continues to create the demand for the shows and sporting events by participating and enjoying the many moments it brings to their friends and families. The community is the reason Water Festival volunteers work hard to make it all possible. There are no paid staff, not in a monetary sense. Water Festival volunteers are paid in gratitude and the pride they feel in their commitment to the organization. Whether a volunteer helps with a single event or every single event, it is a commendable effort of time, skill, and energy. Two volunteers who encompass all the characteristics of an exceptional volunteer, and treasured members of the Water Festival family, are Greg and Tammy. Tammy Crooks is a born-and-raised Beaufortonian whose kind, generous spirit drives her to give back to place she knows and loves. Twelve years ago, after a lifetime of attending the festival events, Tammy asked how she could help. After years of a myriad of responsibilities, most notably several years as the lead Volunteer Coordinator, she is serving this year as the Director of Hospitality, an important role.

“I love being part of the Water Festival family. It is a great group of people from all walks of life,” says Tammy. “You will see a different side of people when you watch them freely give such a large amount of personal time to this festival. It’s truly a family and we love adopting new generations of people to carry on this 66-year-old legacy. “

Greg Godfrey is a veteran of the U.S. Navy, stationed in Beaufort in 2018 at the Naval Hospital. During his first summer in Beaufort, he heard a lot about the Water Festival and knew he would be in attendance. What he didn’t know was that an offer to help on Kid’s Day as a mascot would bring him into the volunteer family for years to come. Greg jumped right in to help the Water Festival and he specialized in Parks logistics, a hardworking role.

“Every year, when the park is all set up, everything is ready to go and the people fill in, I take a moment to stand near the back to watch everyone have a good time,” says Greg. “I see friends and families making memories, and that’s what it’s all about. That’s the reward.”

This year, Greg is serving as the Director of Sponsors, an important role with a lot of community interaction that works closely with the supporters who make it financially possible to host a festival each year.

These two truly have “the spirit of the volunteer” and are in great company with their Water Festival Family. If you see them, say “thanks!” and if you would like to join them, let us know!

Long-time volunteers Greg Godfrey and Tammy Crooks return another year to help make the 66th Water Festival the best Festival ever.

A Lowcountry Tradition

In 1956 John Bigbee and a group of friends had an idea – to expand Beaufort’s summer sailboat races into a weekend of fun on the water. And with that, the Beaufort Water Festival was born. The idea was to use local civic organizations to plan the ski shows and motorboat races. In the 60 plus years since that first two-day festival it has grown to a 10-day festival. It will celebrate its 65th year this July.

In the early days of the Festival, it cost fifty cents to attend the Beauty Pageant, one dollar per couple to attend the Water Festival Ball (later changed to the Commodore’s Ball), and two dollars to attend the Regatta Ball. The first weekend featured sailboat races and the Regatta Ball. The following weekend began with the Beauty Pageant on Friday where the Queen of the Carolina Sea Islands was crowned. The parade and ski show, put on by the Beaufort Water Ski Club, and an air show highlighted the second weekend in addition to the Water Festival Ball.

The cover for the 48th Annual Beaufort Water Festival magazine from 2003 with Mr. Geordie Madlinger as Commodore. Geordie passed on January 20, and will be missed by his Festival family.

Over the years, change has been constant as old events phased out and new ones were added. Originally, all events were held on or adjacent to the municipal parking lot at the Downtown Marina. In case of inclement weather – the word “rain” is never used during the Festival – the pageant would move indoors to the Beaufort Elementary School and the Balls would be held in the Community Club.

Beaufort’s most famous event has grown over the past 60 years. Festival presidents began to be called Commodores, a group of 15 volunteers grew to hundreds, and the Festival’s goodwill ambassadors, the Pirettes, were introduced in 1969.

As the years went by, the Festival began to draw more and more people to Beaufort from other parts of the state and a national level. Events such as fishing and golf tournaments were added outside the 10-day Festival. Other additions include the craft market and Sponsors’ and Community Non-Profit expos were added during the Festival to offer something for every age and interest.

The Festival continues evolving to keep current with the interests of festival-goers and has grown to a ten-day event. Over 400 volunteers from the community and military bases work long hours to bring the events to Beaufort. The Festival is able to offer first class entertainment at reasonable prices due to the generosity of our loyal sponsors.

CHLOE AIMAR

Chloe Aimar is the daughter of Adam Aimar and Rachel Cone. She is a sophomore at Beaufort High School. Chloe is on the Drill team for the Junior ROTC program. She enjoys reading, writing, going out on the boat, and spending time with friends and family. She is planning on attending Clemson University to become a high ranking trauma nurse in the Army National Guard.

COOK

Olivia Cook is the eldest daughter of Jamie and Wendy Cook. She is a freshman of Beaufort High School and a member of the Diversity Council. Her hobbies include boating, fishing, camping with her family and friends as well as drawing. Her future goals is to attend a University to major in Marine Biology with a minor in Art.

THE 2022 PIRETTES

TORI ASHMORE

Tori Ashmore is the daughter of Jerry and Tina Ashmore. She is the youngest of five children. Tori is a sophomore at Beaufort High School and is involved in clubs such as Student Council, Create Club, Voices, and her school soccer team. She enjoys spending time with her friends and family, but mostly her dog Bentley. Tori is planning on majoring in sociology while having a minor in theology.

NORA DAVIS

Nora Davis is the daughter of Otis and Jean Davis. She is a honors freshman at Beaufort high school carrying a 4.9 GPA. She loves to play softball, do art and hangout with her family. Her future goals are to go to college and become an architect like her dad.

KAYLE BROWN

Kayle Brown is the daughter of Jonathan and Crystal Brown. She is an honor sophomore student at Bridges Preparatory School. Some of her hobbies include baking, spending time with friends and family, and going to the beach. In the future she plans on getting a degree in Criminology at the University of South Carolina.

SKYLA FEARS

Skyla Fears is the daughter of Qunderia and Lajarry Fears. She is a sophomore at Whale Branch Early College High School. Skyla is a part of the MCJROTC program, and participates in the theatre program at the PAC. She likes to read, write, dance and sing. Skyla is planning on joining the Air Force Academy, or attend college to study psychology. Another dream of Skyla’s is to become an actress.

ANSLEIGH CARVER

Ansleigh Carver is the daughter of James Still and Allison Still. She is a junior honor student at Bridges Preparatory School. Her hobbies include spending time with friends and family, babysitting, playing soccer, cheerleading, and spending time on the water. Her goal is to attend college and then become a neonatal nurse.

EMMA FRASER

Emma Fraser is the daughter of Jeremiah and Michelle Fraser. Emma has been an honors student at Bridges Preparatory School for nine years. She is a varsity soccer and volleyball player. She is currently taking dual enrollment courses through TCL. In the future Emma hopes to attend Clemson University to become an athletic trainer for college sports teams.

OLIVIA

Each year the Commodore and a committee select a group of enthusiastic, local teenage girls to become Pirettes, who then represent the Festival throughout the year. They serve as the Beaufort Water Festival ambassadors of goodwill and make appearances at several Lowcountry venues.

KAMIRAH FREEMAN

Kamirah A. Freeman is the daughter of Kinard and Yewande Freeman, she is a sophomore at Beaufort Academy where she is on the Varsity Cheer team, Varsity Basketball team, Junior Varsity Volleyball team, and Chaplin of the BA Student Senate. She also plays travel basketball with H2 (843 sports). Kamirah enjoys sports, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. Kamirah plans to attend USC to play basketball and become an attorney.

CLARA KOLB

Clara Kolb is a sophomore at Beaufort High School and a first year Pirette. She is the daughter of Jeff and Shelley Kolb. She has two older sisters and a younger brother. She is active in her church and Younglife. Clara is a cheerleader at Beaufort High. She is a member of the National Dance Honor Society and continues to dance with Jayne Richardson Dance Studio where she started at age three.

GRACE GIBSON

Gibson is the daughter of Christopher and Wendy Gibson. She is a junior at Bridges Preparatory School. She enjoys hunting, fishing, and spending time on her family’s farm. Grace is planning on attending the nursing school at the University of South Carolina and then head to medical school to become a dermatologist.

HAYES MORRISON

Hayes Morrison is the daughter of Stroh and Jennifer Morrison. She is a sophomore honors student at Beaufort High School where she is a member of the French National Honors Society. She is a member of First Scots Presbyterian Church and enjoys spending her summers as a camp counselor. She loves hanging out with her friends and family, going to the beach, and baking. She plans to attend college where she hopes to study medicine.

AUBREY GOGOL

Aubrey Gogol is the daughter of McCall and Nick Gogol. She is a sophomore at Beaufort Academy. She is a varsity basketball, soccer and softball player she also participates in Club Volleyball and plays for Beaufort Select. Her hobbies are spending time with family, friends, her dog “ Hildy” and soaking up the sun on the beach. Her future plans are undecided between the USMC or college abroad.

BELLA PATTERSON

Bella Patterson is the daughter of Joseph and Nicole Patterson. She is a freshman at Lowcountry Montessori School. Bella has a passion for dance, and loves going to compete at competitions. She enjoys spending time with family and friends and likes to try new extracurricular activities. She has three siblings and cares a lot for them. Bella’s dream College is University of South Carolina. She wants to be a surgical tech and pursue her dance career.

GLENTIA GRAHAM

Glentia Graham is the daughter of Glenton and Althea Graham. She is a sophomore at Whale Branch Early College High school. Glentia enjoys spending time with her friends and family and traveling. Glentia’s main goal is to go to college and study medicine. This is her first year as a Pirette.

MARIELLE POULIN

Marielle Poulin is the daughter of Ellen and Roger Poulin. She is a sophomore at Bridges Preparatory School, where she is a member of the National Honors Society. Marielle enjoys spending time with her friends, family, and animals. She is a dancer at JRDS, in the performance company. In the future she plans to attend college and major in either broadcasting or computer science. She is delighted to be a 2022 Beaufort Water Festival Pirette.

What started out as a garage band while attending the University of North Texas, turned out to become an award-winning, storied career in country music for Mike Eli, James Young, Jon Jones and Chris Thompson of the Eli Young Band.

The Eli Young Band’s story began when Mike Eli and James Young both enrolled at the University of North Texas and found themselves sharing a dorm room as freshmen. Both played guitar, and the two new friends started writing and singing together. Under the name Eli & Young, they began playing acoustic shows at local bars and coffee houses, and in time they expanded the band into a full electric quartet with the addition of fellow students Jon Jones on bass and Chris Thompson on drums, thus giving rise to the Eli Young Band.

The group became a potent local draw, and in 2003 opened a show for rising star Miranda Lambert. Producer Frank Liddell saw the show and was impressed enough to offer the band a deal with his independent label, Carnival Recording Co. The Eli Young Band’s debut album, Level, appeared in 2005, and the songs “That’s the Way” and “When It Rains” began scoring significant airplay in the Lone Star State. Their enthusiastic live show helped them draw a large and loyal audience in the Southwest, where they were able to fill 2,000-seat venues as a headliner, and they toured the country as an opener for the likes of Pat Green, Cross Canadian Ragweed, and Jack Ingram.

continued on page 24

2022 FESTIVAL SCHEDULE

FRIDAY, JULY 15

Festival Arts & Crafts Market

Location: Promenade at Waterfront Park

Event Details: 2 pm – 7 pm

OPENING CEREMONY

SUNDAY, JULY 17

Festival Arts & Crafts Market

Location: Promenade at the Waterfront Park Event Details: 9:30 am – 5 pm

River Rally

DEASGUYZ

It wouldn't be Monday night at the Beaufort Water Festival without the sounds of Deas-Guyz, back again for Motown Monday.

The high-energy group, Deas-Guyz, will take the stage again at the Beaufort Water Festival for Motown Monday.

Deas-Guyz features an entertaining mix of Old Motown, Rhythm and Blues, Pop, Rock, Reggae and Dance beats. The range of musical selections includes Motown sounds of the Temptations, The Drifters, Smokey Robinson and Marvin Gaye, Bob Marley classics to the dance sounds of Pharrell Williams and Montell Jordan.

The band officially formed in January 2000 (as Nu World Beat) and evolved to the tight group now known as Deas-Guyz. Each member adds a rich and varied musical background to the mix. The artists bring many years of prior experience performing professionally in other bands, clubs, colleges, various festivals and hundreds of private functions and wedding receptions.

For over a decade the band has been packing the house. With the popularity of the group growing it has lead them to performances across the state of South Carolina as well as several Venues in Georgia, Florida and North Carolina.

Deas-Guyz will perform on Motown Monday on Monday, July 18. Gates open at 7 pm. Show starts at 8 pm. Tickets are $15. Five and under FREE.

Located in Historic Downtown Beaufort for over 40 years offering Coastal Gifts, Souvenirs, Jewelry, Year Round Christmas, Collectible Coins, and so much more!

In 2006, the group’s live show was captured for posterity on the concert recording Live at the Jolly Fox, taped during a gig at a club in Huntsville, Texas. The Eli Young Band then landed a deal with the Universal-distributed Republic Records; a video for a new recording of “When It Rains” subsequently received extensive play on Country Music Television, and the group’s first album for Republic, Jet Black & Jealous, was released September 2008, with “When It Rains” and two other songs from the album, “Always the Love Songs” and “Radio Waves,” becoming Top 40 hits.

The follow-up album, Life at Best, delivered another hit, the Liz Rose- and Lee Bricepenned “Crazy Girl.” The album was well-received by fans and critics alike, and the following year the Eli Young Band were nominated for a host of awards, including a clutch of Academy of Country Music Awards where they took home the Song of the Year accolade for “Crazy Girl.” They were also up for Grammys for Best Duo/Group Performance and Best Country Song. They soon returned to the studio to record sessions for their fifth album, and in 2013 the fruits of their labor appeared in the shape of the “Drunk Last Night” single, which raced to number one on the U.S. Country Airplay chart. Building on this success, they headed out on tour before announcing that 10,000 Towns was set to be released in 2014; it was preceded by the second single “Dust.” An EP called Turn It On was released in the spring of 2015. For 2017’s Fingerprints, the Eli Young Band signed with the Big Machine subsidiary Valory; the record entered the Billboard country charts at 17.

In March 2019, Big Machine released the compilation This Is Eli Young Band: Greatest Hits, which spawned the number one single “Love Ain’t.” Two years later, the band issued “Lucky for Me,” followed by “Love Talking” in 2022. Both singles are slated to appear on the group’s forthcoming seventh long-player.

Eli Young Band will headline the Concert in the park on July 15, along with KIDD G, and Peytan Porter. The gates open at 6 pm and the show will begin at 7 Tickets are $30.

Eli Young Band continued from page 15

ISLAND TIME

The Island Time band is a collaboration of North Carolinas finest laid back musicians playing not only the music of Jimmy Buffett but many other island specialties.

Island Time is a nautical themed band, which means all songs have a connection to either sailing, captains, pirates, oceans, islands, etc. So, they are a natural for Island Time Tuesday at the Beaufort Water Festival!

The Island Time band likes to think of themselves as an Island Rock Band. In addition to the high quality of the music, Island Time also provides a show complete with stage props, costume changes and characters. Character synopsis: Guitarist/Lead Vocalist is Captain Jimmy Buffoon. A long lost cousin from the outback in Australia of the well known Jimmy Buffett from Key West. Keyboardist/Lead Vocalist is Mark Arrita. A disgruntled pirate whose time on shore has him believing a mutiny is in order to get this band of misfits back out to sea. Bass Guitar/Backing Vocals is Bud Wiser. A smooth talking soft spoken Albino from Jamaica Drummer/Percussionist is Flip Flop who happens to be a deaf mute. Island Time Tuesday is first responder and military appreciation night. Admission is free for all and first responders and military personnel with an active duty ID.

Island Time will perform at Island Time Tuesday on Tuesday, July 19. Gates open at 7 pm. Show starts at 8 pm. Tickets are $5. Five and under free. Tuesday is First Responder and Military Appreciation Night - free admission with active duty ID

Supplies

Talent Show

For many, the idea of performing in front of thousands of strangers would be a deal breaker, but not for a select group of performers.

The Beaufort Water Festival wouldn’t be the same without the annual Talent Show on Wednesday, July 18th. And if chairs are any indication of popularity, the Talent Show is one of the most popular. “In the past, I’ve set up the judges’ stand. I’d always start at 6:30 am and there were always chairs and blankets out reserving spaces,” confided the Parks Coordinator, Todd Stowe.

The Talent Show wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of the ladies from the Preceptor Omega Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi. When asked how long the Beta’s had been working with the Talent Show Beta member Rhonda Conner replied, “When we first started in 1974 we had to put the microphone up to a record player.”

Throughout the years the Talent Show has grown from 15 contestants to more than 40. As it has grown, so has it’s impact. “We put the proceeds back into the community,” explained Conner. “A few of the beneficiaries are the YMCA, CAPA, and the Boys and Girls Club of Beaufort.”

The Talent Show will take place on Wednesday, July 20. Gates open at 6 pm and the show starts at 7. Tickets are $10 or free with an official 66th Annual Beaufort Water Festival t-shirt. Children five and under are free.

Photo by Shawn Hill Photography

Local favorite, Mike Ponder, a.k.a., Steel Rail Express, is back headlining this year’s Lowcountry Supper!

Mike Ponder was born in Hot Springs, NC. Mike first began playing the drums when he was six years old. Soon he was touring with the family band, J. L. and the Country Squires, on weekends and after school, playing churches, festivals and doing opening shows for the likes of little Jimmie Dickens, The Kendalls, Kitty Wells and Archie Cambell.

As the years progressed, Mike joined the military at 18. Serving in the United States Marine Corps and then joining the United States Navy serving as a Corpsman until retirement in 2009. Mike continued his music while enlisted and started the band, “Steel Rail Express,” in 2001 right here in Beaufort, SC. Steel Rail Express entertains people with Classic Country, Top 40 Country, Beach and Funk, and Motown.

Mike and Steel Rail Express began to play the Beaufort Water Festival in June 2006 and continues to support and entertain the Beaufort Water Festival on local nights. Mike resides in Lady’s Island, SC with his partner Tanya, and his son, Jeremiah. Mike is also the CEO and owner of SREJAMS.COM.

Mike is an alumni member of Zac Brown’s Camp Southern Ground, where he completed the CSG Warrior Wellbeing Program and volunteers to help several times a year to veterans that are in need. Mike gives back to the military community by coordinating and leading active-duty local marines and military family members every week in music lessons and jam sessions. Mike’s motto, “ Do good, feel good, repeat.”

Steel Rail Express will headline Lowcountry Supper on July 21, along with Katie Godowns, and opening act, Chris Jones. Gates open at 6 pm and supper will be served from 6 pm to 7:30 pm. No refunds, outside food or beverages, or coolers. Children age 5 and under are free. No pets are allowed. Tickets are $15.

CRAFT MARKET

Allen’s Gems & Rocks: gemstone products

Bossy Brand by Morgan: handmade polymer Clay earrings

Burnt Treasures/Funky Flatware: hand drawn and burned boxes, frames, plaques, jewelry, leather purses and wallets, earrings, and spoon jewelry

Crosby’s Cuttings: handmade pens, razors, saving brushes, wine stoppers, bottle openers, cork screws, seam rippers, pizza cutters, meat tenderizers, etc.

Finch Sign & Design Metalworks

LLC: aluminum, steel plasma cut metalworks, grinded, sanded and painted either by hand or air brush that clear coated with automotive clear coat

Fishtown Signs, LLC: unique outdoor fish and maritime related signs for the home, office, or marina

Half-Pint Designs: paint and printed pillows, towels, etc.

Hawthorne Leather: handcrafted

The Beaufort Water Festival attracts crafters from all over the state and the southeast with some having made the trip to Beaufort for more than a decade. Whatever your taste or budget, you’ll be sure to find something at the Beaufort Water Festival’s Craft Market.

leather belts wallets, buckles, cell cases, bracelets, mug covers etc.

Kostoski Design: unique 100%

handcrafted designs from art jewelry wire including rings, earrings and monograms

K’s Designs Jewelry: mixed metal, wire wrapped, woven jewelry handmade upcycled guitar string jewelry

Larkspur & Pine: laser engraving; home decor and jewelry

L’ava’nder’s Cork: embroidered cork wallets, coin purses, money clips

Lazer Edge: Handmade wooden decor, wall plaques, coasters, ornaments, and magnets made from cherry and maple wood

Modern Forestry LLC: 100% soy candles hand poured into glass mason jars

Nectar of the Vine: wine frappe; gourmet wine slush mises in 20+ flavors

Old Salt LLC: handmade and hand painted furniture, dog feeders, leash holders, signs

Olive Wood Kitchenware: Bowls, plates, utensils, and cutting boards made from olive wood

Prickly Pear Pottery: small batch, hand crafted, functional pottery

Recycled Reels: vintage film reels repurposed into functional home wares such as wire racks, lamps, end tables, book ends, clocks

Rick Lott: original wildlife photographs, matted and framed

Rocking K Apiaries: wildflower, tupelo, sourwood, orange blossom, and wildflower comb honey

Savannah Sam Photography: Coastal & nautical themed photography and photo art

Shell Yeah Charleston: locally handcrafted oyster home decor and jewelry

Side Porch Handmade Soap: Handmade soap, scrubs, lotion sticks, shower steamers, bath Fizzies, Chapstick, & linen

sprays

Steel My Heart Metal Art: custom designed, hand painted metal art and signs. Flags, military badge and sport memorabilia

Street Sauce Pickles: homemade pickles with various flavors sold in quart sized containers

The Art Factory: low and high fire clay earthenware pottery

Three Oaks Outfitters: hand crafted leather and textile products such as wallets, bags, totes, and key fobs as well as hand poured candles

Visions to Remember: photography and hand color photography illustrations

Well Designed Wood: wooden beer koozies, sawdust shot glasses, wooden bottle openers, wooden coasters

Hardwired is the premier Metallica tribute band located in Tampa and is quickly becoming a household name in the world of Tribute Bands.

Expect an accurate vocal portrayal of Hetfield from opening to last note, to the screaming leads of Kirk Hammett and actually resembling the man himself. The beast rhythm section representing Ulrich and a combination of Burton, Newsted and Trujillo complete this visual and sonically accurate lineup.

Hardwired will perform on Rockin’ the River on Friday, with opening act, Killin’ Quaid, on July 22. Gates open at 7 pm. Show starts at 8 pm. Tickets are $15. Must be 18 or Older with Valid ID to attend.

PAST COMMODORES

With one of Soul Music’s all-time great group names, the Chairmen of the Board has pleased music lovers for over 30 years.

Formed in Detroit, the group came out of the box strong in 1970 with the wonderful “Give Me Just A Little More Time,” a classic early 70’s radio smash highlighted by lead singer General Johnson’s emotive, plaintive vocals. “Give Me” was the foundation of the group’s excellent debut album, which also featured the infectious “(You’ve Got Me) Dangling on a String,”.

Over the years, the Chairmen of the Board were among Soul Music’s most consistent hit-makers, scoring big with “Pay to the Piper,” “Finders Keepers,” “Chairman of the Board,” and the blissful “Everything’s Tuesday.”

The Chairmen continued to record with moderate success, scoring a surprise hit in Europe in the early 2000’s with the joyous “Bless Your Heart,” a great tune and performance that sounds like it was plucked from their early 70s catalog.

and a Half Time Performance and continues to play their music during home games. Chairmen of the Board are members of the NC Music Hall of Fame.

Chairmen of the Board will be performing at the Commodore’s Ball on July 23. Gates open at 7pm, show at 8pm. Tickets are $15. Children 5 and under are free.

BEAUFORT STANDOUT TO BE GRAND MARSHALL

Beaufort’s Ron Parker, the Beaufort High standout, Newberry alumni, and longtime Kansas City Chiefs starter has been selected as the Water Festival Grand Parade Grand Marshal.

Parker’s story to the NFL is a testament to perseverance. After High School, Parker went to Independence Community College in Kansas and after two years landed a scholarship at Division II Newberry College. Parker was nicked named “The Ghost” due to his ability to appear out of nowhere on the field. In 2011, the Seattle Seahawks selected Parker as an undrafted free agent, a rarity for a division 2 football player. After playing for the Seahawks, Oakland Raiders, and Carolina Panthers, he found his home with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Over eight seasons, Parker played in 105 NFL games, making 78 starts. He finished his career with 394 tackles, 345 solo tackles, 10 tackles for loss, eight sacks, five forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries and 11 interceptions (one touchdown). He was inducted into the Newberry College Athletic Hall of Fame in 2021.

Parker has said is his path to the NFL was unconventional and has always thanked God for blessing him with a healthy NFL career.

Water Festival Commodore, Shawna Doran said Ron Parker is a great role model in what perseverance and hard work can do to achieve your dreams. We are honored to have Ron as our Grand Marshall.

The Water Festival Grand Parade is sponsored by Taylor’s Landscape Supply & Nursery, and is organized by the Beaufort Lions Club. The parade will take place in downtown Beaufort. It will begin at 10 am and will last until noon on Saturday, July 25

The past few years, The NFL Carolina Panthers have featured the group in a video,

FIT TO A TEE

Nathan Callender is the artist behind the 2022 Beaufort Water Festival t-shirt. “It meant a lot to have the opportunity to create this year’s design and I really appreciate that chance.”

Shawna Doran started bouncing around ideas for the 66th shirt back in August of 2021. “I wanted this year’s shirt design to be a little retro, but something that would still represent downtown Beaufort.”

A Beaufort Memorial Hospital colleague recommended a former BMH ED Tech, Nathan Callender. Nathan Callender stared a career of public service as a firefighter in the U.S. Air Force. His time in the service took him to Las Vegas, Japan, and Korea. “After that, I worked as a contractor in Hungary and Uzbekistan before taking a position as a paramedic/firefighter at Parris Island in 2003,” explained Callender. From there he worked for Beaufort Memorial and eventually as a firefighter at Hunter Army Airfield Fire Department in Savannah, Georgia where he is a captain.

Callender has also worked as a graphic artist for several years. “My mother, Linda, was a costume designer for Disneyland and growing up I was surrounded by art and artists,” confided Nathan. “I’ve always been drawn to graphics and began a screenprinting company called Dustbone Apparel in 2013. That’s when I began doing logo and illustration work. My first art project was for the City of Beaufort and was painting one of the mermaids featured at Waterfront Park called The Princess of Atlantis.”

That’s when the 66th Commodore came calling. “Shawna approached me and wanted a simple vintage design for this year’s festival,” said Nathan.

“It was important to me to have a first responder create the shirt and Nathan did an incredible job bringing my vision to life,” added Doran.

U.S. Air Force veteran, first responder, graphic artist, and business owner, Nathan Callender, lends his talents to the 66th Annual Beaufort Water Festival.