2023 Beaufort Water Festival Magazine by Todd Stowe

The Official Guide to the 67th Annual Beaufort Water Festival

Letter from the Commodore W

elcome to the 67th Annual Beaufort Water Festival! I am James Nutt, a born and raised Beaufortonian who has enjoyed what the Annual Beaufort Water Festival has brought to the community since my youth. I am thankful to have the distinct honor and privilege to serve as this year’s Commodore. Since 1956, our community has celebrated alongside family and friends, making lasting memories at this timehonored 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 sea.

I would like to thank the community, military, civic organizations, and the hundreds of volunteers who so generously give their time to support the Festival. As an exclusively volunteer event, we rely on this team to ensure the Festival is a resounding success each year. From my first volunteering in 2007, I was locked in. I have made countless memories, enduring friendships, and have cherished working alongside so many dedicated community members.

The crew and I hope you enjoy the traditions that this wonderful, beautiful, and historic city by the sea has to offer at the 67th 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 Annual Beaufort Water Festival. We look forward to making many more great times, and adding to your, “Tides of Lasting Memories.”

James Nutt Commodore 67th Annual Beaufort Water Festival

The 67th Annual Beaufort Water Festival Commodore, James Nutt, with his fiance, Allison Kindwall.

Photo by Shawn Hill Photography

WELCOME FROM THE MAYOR Stephen Murray

Dear Friends and Visitors,

On behalf of Beaufort City Council, City Manager Scott Marshall, and the men and women of Team Beaufort, Welcome to the 67th Annual Beaufort Water Festival!

Commodore James Nutt and his dedicated team of volunteers have an outstanding festival planned for us to enjoy. We are 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 “Tides of Lasting Memories”!

The Official 2023 Annual Beaufort Water Festival magazine is published by the Annual Beaufort Water Festival and distributed free of charge throughout the greater Beaufort area. Publication of advertising contained herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement. All copy is protected and cannot be reproduced without written permission from the Annual Beaufort Water Festival. © 2023.

City of Beaufort

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 67th Annual Beaufort Water Festival will once again feature the Parris Island Marine Band at the Opening Ceremony on July 14th.

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 Todd Stowe, Production Coordinator.

The Parris Island Marine Band will perform at the Opening Ceremony on Friday, July 14. Gates open at 6 pm. The ceremony begins at 7 pm, with fireworks at dusk.

Photo by Shawn Hill Photography

QUESTIONS FOR THE COMMODORE

BWF: Do you have any favorite memories from your time with the Beaufort Water Festival?

JN: There are My fondest memories are shared with friends, family and especially the crew. Watching the ski show with my nephew Hank, for his first Festival experience, and seeing everyone’s smiles as the gates open for an evening’s event are pretty high on the list. One particular memory that will always be one of the best and most hilarious is during a Sunday clean up after the Blessing of the Fleet. Todd Stowe and I had the task of disassembling the fencing. It was so hot and humid that we long regretted staying up until 2am the night before to help get a jump on breaking down the rest of the park. After baking in the sun, the delirium set in, and for some reason we both started talking like Forrest Gump... It lasted for HOURS. There’s still a debate on who started it! [EDITOR’S NOTE: James started it.]

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

JN: My intention with the theme is to incorporate two great passions I have from growing up in Beaufort - the Water Festival and our amazing waterways. The Waterfront Park is a venue that couldn’t be better suited for the Festival to call home, right on the Beaufort River. Can’t ask for a stronger connection there! My time with the Festival is filled with so many great moments and memories that can only be described as beyond fulfilling! We all have a special sense of what Beaufort and the Water Festival mean to us, and I wanted the theme to embody that.

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

JN: I would have to say, though, that my favorite will always be the Opening Ceremony, when the fireworks begin to light up the sky. You can feel and see the excitement in everyone for the start of the Festival, and the fun that’s right around the corner.

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

JN: When you’re from Beaufort, it’s almost like the Festival is a part of you, so when the opportunity came there wasn’t an ounce of hesitation to be a volunteer. That first year was a whirlwind for sure, but meeting the staff and experiencing the accomplishment to help throw the best event in Beaufort kept me coming back. It didn’t take much of the “Kool-Aid” to get me hooked!

BWF: How did you come up with the idea for this year’s design?

JN: This year’s shirt design has been in the making for quite some time actually. It comes from a picture that I took almost 11 years ago, back when I had a photography bug. Once I saw the picture, I knew that if I was ever Commodore, then that would be the inspiration for the shirt. To me there’s nothing more iconic that shows the beauty of our town than the Woods Bridge. It’s also a side of the bridge that isn’t shown as much because you can only get that coloring of the sunset during the winter months.

BWF: What’s new for the 67th Annual Beaufort Water Festival?

JN: We are excited to have introduced pickleball as the newest Water Festival event! The first year was great, and I am looking forward to it growing in the years to come! Also of course, we are bringing back some of the staples that everyone loves on our evening entertainment slate like the USMC Parris Island Band and Deas Guys, but have also changed up a couple nightly act directions to add to the fun. There will be a Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute band Thursday night for Lowcountry Supper, and we are bringing in Led Zeppelin 2 to rock out all night long on the second Friday. There will also be a Military & First Responders expo under the pavilion during the first half of Island Time Tuesday. Representatives from the armed forces branches and all local emergency agencies will be there to chat about, and maybe demonstrate, things they do! continued on

The 67th Commodore, James Nutt, is an operations manager for CBM Concrete, LLC. James started volunteering with the Beaufort Water Festival in 2007.

Photo by Shawn Hill Photography

WATER FESTIVAL

BEAUFORT WATER FESTIVAL SPONSORS

ADMIRAL OF THE FLEET

FLEET ADMIRAL

FLEET CAPTAIN

ADMIRAL

VICE ADMIRAL

REAR ADMIRAL

CAPTAIN

COMMANDER

| The Boathouse | The Point Transportation | Q on Bay | The

Crust | Tradewinds

and Irrigation | Tupper, Grimsley, Dean, & Canaday, P.A. | Veteran’s Pride Entertainment Services

FRIENDS & FAMILY

& Mickey Gray | Joshua Ward, Weichert Realtors Coastal Properties | Julie & Wilmot Schott |

FISHING TOURNAMENT

GOLF TOURNAMENT

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

THE 2023 COORDINATORS THE 2023 COORDINATORS

PROGRAM

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. Tony Serrato is the technology consultant and Sam Thomas is the Director for Public Safety.

ADMIN COORDINATOR:

Katie Jindrich

Katie started volunteering for Beaufort Water Festival in 2013. After a brief overseas tour her husband, Chas retired from the Marine Corps and they were able to settle back into the Lowcountry. They have three sons, Charlie, Zach, and Max. Katie substitutes at Sea Island Presbyterian Day School in her free time. Her directors are Beth Woodring, and Jeff Maxwell.

MERCHANDISE

COORDINATOR: Jerry Ashmore

Jerry works for The Greenery, Inc. and serves on Port Royal Town Council. He and his wife, Tina, have five children and six grandchildren. He has enjoyed the Festival for many years and volunteered since 2018. Jerry’s Directors are Melina Lee, Theresa Sense, Vonda Young, and Chris Hooper.

PARKS COORDINATOR: Aracely “Cely” Johnson

Cely is a Beaufort native and a fourth & fifth multi-age teacher at Beaufort Elementary School. She and her husband, Ray, have two daughters, Chandaa and Brinlee, and one grandson, Asher. This is Cely’s 9th year volunteering with the Beaufort Water Festival. Her directors are Walter Gay, John Hazel, Logan Hofmann, Frank Mueller, and Josh Taylor.

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:

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. Meghan Pierro and Jen Rotz are the Pirette Directors and Renea Gray is Festival Photographer.

TREASURER:

Meredith Keene

Meredith is a Beaufort native and sole owner of Meredith A Keene CPA, LLC. She performs accounting services for local small businesses and income tax return preparation for individual and business clients. She has been involved with Water Festival most of her life, as the daughter of a Past Commodore, a former Pirette and a volunteer with the Sea Island Rotary Club of Beaufort.

PRODUCTIONS

COORDINATOR:

Todd Stowe

Todd began volunteering for the Beaufort Water Festival in 1995. He is a teacher at Bridges Preparatory School. Todd and his wife, Patsy, have two children, Christy, and Jessie. Dave Helmer, Alex Brautlacht, and Tammy Crooks are the Productions Directors.

WATER AND AIR

COORDINATOR:

Shelley Kolb

Shelley is a 7th grade math teacher at Riverview Charter School. She and her husband, Jeff, have four children, Mabrey, Carter, Clara, and Tillman. This is Shelley’s 18th year volunteering with the Beaufort Water Festival. Her Directors are Chas Jindrich and Samantha Gay.

If you don’t know him, YOU SHOULD

Most Festival goers won’t know or recognize Paul Howe, but for decades he kept the Waterfront Park running like a Swiss watch.

Paul Howe began volunteering for the Festival back in 1988. “In that first year, I only worked the set-up weekend,” explained Howe. “The next year I worked on the set-up, the 10 days of the Festival, and tear down. I’m not sure who originally put me on the volunteer list, but I believe he worked for SCE&G,” joked Howe.

There are a lot of different positions in the Festival, but since the start, Paul has always worked in the park. “I started out as a one-night wonder which got me a sticker to get in. I had to buy one to get my wife, Julie, in. The next year, I was able to get two stickers to get us both in,” Howe said. “When I worked the full ten days, I got a t-shirt and a hat. I still have that hat. At that time, we were called Facilities. That is now called the Parks Crew. Past Commodore, Ed Saxon, later made us all Directors.”

As time moved on, Howe became more and more integral to the Festival. “First off, Paul and I became good friends because of the Festival, and we still are to this day. He was the person we all went to for advice or help because he was such a wealth of information. He was the person we went to ask if we were doing this right or wrong. He was always there,” said the 45th Commodore, Craig McTeer.

“What was it like working with Paul? In a word, different,” explained the 43rd Commodore, Mike Yokum. First, Paul came off as the most laid-back person I had ever seen, but that was deceptive. I quickly found out Paul was one of the smartest individuals I have ever met. He strived for perfection, and he had more knowledge over a wider range of topics, than anyone I have ever known.”

Over the years the Festival has changed a great deal and Paul had a front-row seat. “One of the biggest changes had to do with the Street Dance,” said Howe. “We went from pulling three trailers in to set up the Street Dance to having one Street Dance trailer, and now having no Street Dance.”

“There have been other changes,” explained Howe. “We would carry several trailer loads of booths to set up for Children’s Day,” explained Howe. “Now, we outsource it.”

And then there was the stage. “Up until the 50th Festival, we would build the stage ourselves with heavy wooden panels we called A-Panels,” Howe said. “Now, we bring in a company that provides a professional stage and canopy.”

There are many things that kept Howe coming back year after year. “The biggest thing that brought me back each year was working with all the great people. There’s such a great camaraderie, and the work ethic everyone involved brought to the Festival,” Howe said.

Paul Howe retired from the festival several years ago. He slowly worked himself out of the Festival until he felt comfortable stepping down completely. “What I miss the most is picking up cigarette butts and moving A-Panels,” joked Howe. “Honestly, there are several things I miss. I miss the day-to-day friendships I developed with Festival volunteers. I miss the times after finishing an event and getting to relax and enjoy having a drink with friends. I also miss working with Ms. Joy and Mikel.”

There are only a few of us left with the Festival that were there when Paul was in charge of the park. “When I first started, Paul was the man,” reflected the 67th Commodore, James Nutt. “If you had an issue, ask Paul. If there was a problem, ask Paul. Generally, whatever was needed or whatever problem you were having in the park... Ask Paul.”

Even though Paul has retired from the Festival, he is still around. He doesn’t get up for the daily 5:00 AM trash pickup anymore, but if you are lucky, he might invite you to eat breakfast with him after you are done at the Best Western where he and Julie still get a room for the Festival.

Paul Howe back in 2012 at the dedication ceremony for the bronze plaque of the wheel that sits at the entrance of the pavilion at the Waterfront Park.

Tradition A Beaufort

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 67th 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.

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.

The 17th Commodore, Thomas Garrett and his wife, Marguerite.

OLIVIA COOK

Olivia Cook is the daughter of Wendy and Jamie Cook. She is a sophomore at Beaufort High School. In her free time, she enjoys art, gaming, fishing, and family. After high school, she hopes to study marine biology. Olivia has lived in Beaufort since she was six months old and is a second year Pirette.

RIHANNA COOLER

Rihanna Cooler is the daughter of Sabrina and Joseph Cooler. She is a sophomore at Battery Creek High School. Rihanna is part of Interact, HOSA, Student Council, and Project Unify, a student wellness leader, and is on the cheer squad. Rihanna also takes sports pictures for BCHS. She enjoys hanging out with friends, going to the beach, and playing with her dogs. After high school, Rihanna hopes to be a pediatric oncology nurse. Rihanna is a Beaufort native and a first year Pirette.

EMMA GRAY

Emma Gray is the daughter of Mickey and Brandy Gray. She is a freshman at Bridges Preparatory School. Emma is part of the National Junior Honor Society at her school. In her free time, she enjoys making jewelry. After high school, Emma plans to go to college. Emma is a Beaufort native and a first year Pirette.

THE 2023 PIRETTES THE 2023 PIRETTES

TAELYR

DAUGHERTY

Taelyr Daugherty is the daughter of Justin and Tamara Daugherty. She is a sophomore at Battery Creek High School. Taelyr is part of the varsity volleyball, varsity football, and varsity soccer teams at her school. In her free time, she enjoys club soccer and singing. After high school, Taelyr hopes to be an athletic trainer or a sports broadcaster. Taelyr is a first year Pirette.

LAUREN GRICE

Lauren Grice is the daughter of Michelle and Joey Grice. She is a freshman at Beaufort High School. Lauren is part of the Interact Club and HOSA. She enjoys dancing ballet and pointe with the Derrick Ballet Conservatory. She also enjoys acting with the USCB Beaufort Children’s Theater. After high school, Lauren hopes to study at Clemson University and become a certified registered nurse anesthetist. Lauren is a Beaufort native and a first year Pirette.

KAYLEIGH EUBANK

Kayleigh Eubank is the daughter of Jamie Eubank and Jeffrey Eubank. She is a freshman at Beaufort High School. Kayleigh is part of the National Honor Dance Society at her school. In her free time, she enjoys dancing with the Jayne Richardson Dance Studio. After high school, Kayleigh hopes to be on a college dance team and wants to be a neonatal nurse or a phlebotomist.

Kayleigh is a Beaufort native and a first year Pirette.

KELCEY KEEN

Kelcey Keen is the daughter of Mandy and Jay Keen. She is a freshman at Beaufort High School. Kelcey is part of the junior varsity cheer squad at her school. In her free time, she enjoys shopping, going on the boat, and hanging out with friends. After high school, Kelcey hopes to go to college at the University of South Carolina. Kelcey is a first year Pirette.

VIRGINIA O’KELLEY

Virginia O’Kelley is the daughter of Arthur and English O’Kelley and is a freshman at Beaufort High School. Virginia is part of the tennis team, Interact Club, and HOSA. She enjoys playing tennis, babysitting, and performing with the USCB Children’s Theater. Her happy place is out on the boat with her friends and family. Virginia hopes to go to Clemson University and then apply to PA school to become a physician’s assistant. Virginia is a Beaufort native and a first year Pirette.

MADISON GENTRY

Madison Gentry is the daughter of Kyle and Brandi Gentry. She is a freshman at Bridges Preparatory School. Madison is part of the cheerleading squad at her school. In her free time, she enjoys reading, writing, and crocheting. After high school, Madison hopes to be accepted into a 4-year college for nursing to become a registered nurse and later join the travel agency. Madison is a Beaufort native and a first year Pirette.

ELLIOTT PENCE

Elliott Pence is the daughter of Betsy and Todd Pence. She is a freshman at Bridges Preparatory School. Elliott is part of the varsity cheer squad at her school. In her free time, she enjoys hanging out with friends, and being outside. After high school, Elliott hopes to join the Coast Guard. Elliott is a Beaufort native and a first year Pirette.

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.

AVA SCHOTT

Ava Schott is the daughter of Josh & Brooke Schott. She is a freshman at Beaufort High School. Ava is part of the Softball team at her school. In her free time, she enjoys boating, fishing, hanging out with friends, and going to the beach. After high school, Ava hopes to play softball in college for University of South Carolina. Ava is a Beaufort native and a first year Pirette.

LILYAN SCOGGINS

Lilyan Scoggins is the daughter of Mark and Danielle Scoggins. She is a freshman at Bridges Preparatory School. Lilyan is part of the Soccer National Honor Society at her school. In her free time, she enjoys travel soccer. After high school, Lilyan hopes to go to Clemson University and become a nurse. Lilyan is a Beaufort native and a first year Pirette.

CECELIA TRACY

Cecelia (Lia) Tracy is the daughter of Ann Burton and Louie Tracy. She is a freshman at Beaufort High School. Lia is part of the cross country and soccer teams at her school. In her free time, she enjoys fishing, hunting, singing, and playing instruments. After high school, Lia hopes to go to college and law school to become a lawyer. In her free time, she would also like to do missionary trips for her church or at least set them up and help them. Lia is a first year Pirette.

BELLA SMITH

Bella Smith is the daughter of Bailey and Missy Smith. She is a sophomore at Beaufort High School. Bella is part of the National Honors Society for Dance Arts. She enjoys dancing with the Jayne Richardson Dance Studio, being a youth group member at the Baptist Church of Beaufort, babysitting, and spending time with family and friends. After high school, Bella hopes to major in hospitality, and minor in business. Bella is a first year Pirette.

BRICE STEPP

Brice Stepp is the daughter of Crystal Stepp. She is a sophomore at Holy Trinity Classical School. Brice is part of the after-school sports club at her school. In her free time, she enjoys reading and swimming. After high school, Brice hopes to either become a cosmetologist or a marine biologist. Brice is a Beaufort native and a first year Pirette.

JESSIE STOWE

Jessie Stowe is the daughter of Todd and Patsy Stowe. She is a freshman at Bridges Preparatory School. Jessie is part of the Junior National Honor Society and plays volleyball at her school. Jessie also plays for the Beaufort Elite Volleyball club, is a member of the youth group at the Baptist Church of Beaufort, and enjoys fishing, hanging out with friends. After high school, Jessie hopes to attend the University of Georgia. Jessie is a Beaufort native and a first year Pirette.

The New York Times described Randy Houser’s voice as “wholly different, thicker and more throbbing, a caldron bubbling over.” Houser has racked up five consecutive country radio hits and over five million singles sales after shifting record labels to Stoney Creek Records. Houser will headline the Concert in the Park on Saturday, July 15, along with Gabrielle Mooney, and opening act, Andrew Beam.

Randy Houser was born in Lake, Mississippi. His father, a professional musician as well, performed at various local venues. Houser fronted his own band by age thirteen, and while attending East Central Community College in Decatur, Mississippi, he formed a band called 10 lb. Biscuit.

By 2002, he moved to Nashville, Tennessee to begin a songwriting career. One of his first hits as a songwriter was “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk”, which he co-wrote with Jamey Johnson and Dallas Davidson. It was recorded by Trace Adkins for his 2005 album Songs About Me, and was a Top 5 single. After that success, Houser shifted his focus to performing, and started playing at local gigs in Nashville. He was briefly signed to MCA Nashville but did not release anything.

Houser signed to Universal South Records in 2008. His first single, “Anything Goes”, was released in May of that year. It was co-written by Brice Long and John Wiggins. Houser performed the song on Late Show with David Letterman in August after Letterman heard it on a satellite radio station. The song entered the Top 40 of the Billboard country chart that same month. His debut album, also titled Anything Goes, was released in November, at which point the title track was in the Top 20. “Boots On” was released as the album’s second single in February 2009 and became his first Top Ten hit in July. Houser also co-wrote “Back That Thing Up”, the debut single for Valory Music Group artist Justin Moore. It peaked at #38 on Hot Country Songs in December 2008.

Houser received two nominations for the 2009 CMA Awards, including New Artist of the Year and Music Video of the Year for “Boots On.” Houser, along with Jamey Johnson and Jessie James co-wrote “My Cowboy”, James’s

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2023 FESTIVAL SCHEDULE

FRIDAY, JULY 14

Festival Arts & Crafts Market

Location: Promenade at Waterfront Park

Event Details: 2 PM – 7 PM

OPENING CEREMONY

JULY 16

Festival Arts & Crafts Market

Location: Promenade at the Waterfront Park

Event Details: 9:30 AM – 5 PM

River Rally

MONDAY, JULY 17

Festival Arts & Crafts Market

Location: Promenade at the Waterfront Park

Event Details: 12 PM – 7 PM

MOTOWN MONDAY

Fishing Gear  Ice 

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 19th. 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 as early as 6:30 am and there were always chairs and blankets out reserving spaces,” confided the Parks Director, Josh Taylor.

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 19. Gates open at 6 pm and the show starts at 7pm. Tickets are $10 or free with an official 67th Annual Beaufort Water Festival t-shirt. Children five and under are free.

Photo by Shawn Hill Photography

“TURN IT UP!”

And with those words musical history was set in motion! FreeBird is The Ultimate Lynyrd Skynyrd Experience - period.

As a band FreeBird’s members have been in love with the music since childhood, and they play these songs with the same passion and intensity of Lynyrd Skynyrd themselves.

If you saw the original line up in the 1970s you will appreciate the accuracy, if you’re just discovering the music for the first time, you’ll be blown away by hit after hit of incredible music and amazing players.

Vocalist Leon Priest masterfully catches the essence of Ronnie Van Zant’s vocals and stage persona, guiding the band and players through solos, song after song. Guitarists Matt Chenoweth (Ed King/Steve Gains), John Hopkins (Allen Collins) and Jeff Langston (Gary Rossington) play their roles with such explosive energy and skill you’d think you were at a show in the 1970s. Russell Ingram on drums and Jeff Brashears on bass nail down the groove and power of Artimus Pyle and Leon Wilkeson rhythm section, while keyboardist Joey Huffman (formerly with Lynyrd Skynyrd and more) gracefully adds in Billy Powell’s keyboards for a full and amazing rendition of one of the greatest bands that ever recorded and toured.

FreeBird brings all the magic of the music to life in a way seldom heard by any tribute act. Get ready for a full helping of Southern Fried

band around - Fly High FreeBird Nation!

Freebird will headline Lowcountry Supper on Thursday, July 20, along with 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.

Rock

Roll by the best Skynyrd tribute

“Led

Zeppelin 2 is a tribute band devoted to replicating the live shows of the legendary hard-rock dinosaurs. The band is on its way out of the minor leagues, and is now playing bigger venues for a generation of fans too young to have ever experienced the genuine article.” – THE NEW YORKER

LED ZEPPELIN 2 recreates the sights, sounds, and pure rock and roll euphoria of a prime Led Zeppelin concert. The musicians/ songwriters are from the best of Chicago’s indie/alternative/metal music scenes. The LZ2 band is comprised of Bruce Lamont, Greg Fundis, Matthew Longbons, and Paul Kamp.

In concert, LZ2 delivers authentic renditions of classic Zeppelin material, as well as recreating the live improvisation & onstage dynamics that earned Led Zeppelin their legendary status for performing.

LZ2 delivers the intense, raw energy and dynamics of songs such as Whole Lotta Love, Stairway to Heaven, Kashmir, Dazed & Confused and many more from the entire catalog of Zeppelin studio.

LED ZEPPELIN 2 brings forward the Led Zeppelin experience to a new generation while satisfying diehard Zep fans with a raw, fresh approach. They have performed across the US and draw rave reviews for a “spoton” Zeppelin show, playing both deep cuts and classic tracks from the entire Zep studio.

Led Zeppelin 2 will perform at Rockin’ the River on Friday, July 21 with opening act, Killin’ Quaid. Gates open at 7 pm. Show starts at 8 pm. Tickets are $15. Must be 18 or Older with Valid ID to attend.

CRAFT MARKET

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.

A Fitting Tribute: images on framed and unframed glass, and images on canvases of varying sizes and colors

A Little Sheepy: handmade crocheted plushies, hats, decor, and seasonal items

Adoorable Wreaths: Door wreaths & seasonal floral arrangements

Allen’s Gems & Rocks: Allen’s Gems & Rocks

Art by Savannah Bell: watercolor paintings, other paintings, dreamcatchers, candles, sculptures, and stickers

Beachables: beach tote & chair cover all-in-one, handcrafted in Charleston from authentic Turkish materials

Calilou Clay: modern, lightweight, one-of-a-kind polymer clay jewelry

Coastal Country, LLC.: tote bags, doormats, wind spinners, garden flags, koozies, home and car coasters, makeup bags, earrings, ChapStick holders, hand sanitizer holders, dog bowls, and dog treat containers

Coastal Empire Mental Health: watercolors, chalk, painted stones, and other artwork that is framed Crosby’s Cuttings: handmade pens, razors, shaving brushes, wine stoppers, bottle openers, corkscrews, seam rippers, pizza cutters, meat tenderizers, etc.

D&P Woodworks and Engravings, LLC.: laser engraved cutting boards, kitchen items, handmade cutting boards, handmade and CNC carved stoptop covers, wooden flags and decor, and cornhole boards

Daum Stone Works: granite lazy susans, cutting boards, hot plates and

home decor

Deberah Westbrook: wreaths, laser leather, wood vinyl on bags and cross necklaces

DesignPrints LLC: simulation items, earrings, key chains, mouse pads, coasters, bookmarks and more.

Elizabeth Bennett Designs: decoupage oyster shells, paintings, earrings, and painted bottles

Energy Evolution: crystals, herbs, body products, and jewelry

F&B Crafts + Turnings: hand-turned pens in local, exotic, and acrylic material. Laser etched goods, and wooden turned plates and bowls

Finch Sign & Design Metalworks, LLC.: aluminum steel plasma cut metalworks, ground, sanded and painted either by hand or airbrush, and clear coated with automotive clear coat

Fire & Fluff Laser Studio: upcycled bourbon barrel products: earrings, barware, furniture and art

Fire and Ice Outdoor Gear: fishing poles, survival bracelets and necklaces, backpacks and kuska cups

Gracefull Stitches: hand-crafted stuffed animals

Half Pint: painted lowcountry art put on pillows and towels

Hawthorne Leather: handcrafted leather belts, wallets, buckles, cell cases, bracelets, mug covers, etc.

Jam RockWood Creation: custommade wood sculptures of fish, birds, alligators, and turtles made with river cypress, oak, cedar and Camphor

Kostoski Design: 100% handcrafted designs from art, wire jewelry, and monograms

Mitchell Moriarty: artwork made of reclaimed pallets & recycled bottle caps

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

MyTownArt.com: original paintings and lithographs on canvas

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

Old Salt, LLC.: handmade and handpainted furniture, dog feeders, leash holders, and signs

Palmetto Kettle Corn: 6oz. packaged bags of sweet n’salty kettle corn freshly popped in a variety of flavors.

Paper Snapdragon: hand-cut and painted waterproof paper flower art on headbands, hair clips and wreaths

Pip and Nors Boutique: handpainted wooden door hangers, yard signs, home décor, and ornaments

Prickly Pear Pottery: small batch, handcrafted & functional pottery.

Mugs, plates, jars, and planters

Refined: handmade necklaces, bracelets, earrings, permanent, clasps, welded jewelry

Rocking K Apiaries: wildflower, Tupelo, and Sourwood Honey. Orange Blossom Honey and Wildflower comb

Savannah Sam Photography: Coastal & Nautical Themed Photography and Photo Art

Seaglass by Sandra: framed pictures of things like birds, sailboats, and flowers, as well as Sea Glass

Jewelry

Sh’ Thats Hot!: Artisan/craft small batch hot sauce

Side Porch Handmade Soap:

Handmade soaps, scrubs, lotion sticks, shower steamers, bath Fizzies, Chapstick, and linen sprays

Smitty’s Shop Flags: wooden flags and wall hangings

South Carolina Spice Company: hand-crafted local spice blends, infused olive oils, and hot sauce dishes, all locally sourced Southern Certified: designed tumblers

Southern Hotpine Creations: naturally translucent wooden sun catchers, dream catchers, nightlights, dragonfly & Butterfly earrings, lamps, and assorted home decor for both indoor and outdoor enjoyment

Spiritual Creations: a combination of crystals, herbs, resin jewelry, and intention candles. Orgonite, moon decor, and spell jars

The Polawana Puppy, LLC.: embroidered towels, garden flags, shoe bags, napkins, aprons, baby onesies: blankets

The Rustic Chelle: repurposed items and created beautiful pieces out of oyster shells

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

Veterans Fine Arts: cutting boards and small tables made with resin design

We3Potters: hand-built pottery, sculptures, and stoneware jewelry by three generations of potters

PAST COMMODORES

One of the original Beaufort Water Festival events, the Commodore’s Ball, is still going strong.

Originally called the Water Festival Ball, the Commodore’s Ball, is as old as the festival itself and has long been a festival favorite. Not only is it the last big performance of the festival, it is where the upcoming Commodore is announced.

Performing for the first time at the Beaufort Water Festival is the ACE Party Band. They have performed for all generations and perform music from all genres spanning over the past 50 years, from Beach and Motown, to Top 40s, Pop, Rock, Hip Hop, R&B, Country, and Jazz Standards. ACE Party Band is the result of talented musicians coming together for the single goal of enhancing your event.

Leading lady and experienced front-woman, AftanCi, is a powerhouse. She established ACE Party Band in July of 2018 and has since signed on with brioLIVE, a NC-based entertainment agency. Though she has been inspired by many past and present musicians, she says that, “it’s the way music makes me feel that inspires me more than anything.” And if there is one thing she believes in, it is the true power of music and its ability to change hearts, minds, emotions, and lives as a whole. Each time she takes the stage, AftanCi seeks to captivate the attention and hearts of all listeners with her diverse flair, sound, and repertoire of feel-good melodies.

ACE Party Band will be performing at the Commodore’s Ball on Saturday, July 22. Gates open at 7pm, show at 8pm. Tickets are $15. Children five and under are free.

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BWF: The Beaufort Water Festival is a big event with a lot of moving parts. What has been your favorite position?

JN: This has to be the easiest question so far, hands down it would be Parks Coordinator! Between a day job in the construction industry and my first six years volunteering on the Parks Crew, it has always been the most comfortable and rewarding volunteer role. I love a good problem to solve and logistics. Sure, there’s buckets of sweat, late nights, and a few bruises that come along with the park’s responsibilities, but nothing can top that Field of Dreams feeling - “If you build it, they will come!”

BWF: For all intents and purposes, after this year you are done volunteering for the Festival. What do you think you will miss the most?

JN: Well, straight to the hardest question...with the scale of the Festival it’s hard to pick just one. I am going to say that the most missed will be the experiences with the crew that come each year. There is a fellowship that occurs and lifelong relationships that grow when you volunteer for the Festival. Those times each Festival, whether a hurdle to cross or gut busting laughter, are unique and have always been cherished.