“When I feel that chill, smell that fresh cut grass, I’m back in my helmet, cleats, and shoulder pads. Standing in a huddle, listening to the call, fans going crazy for the boys of fall.” (Kenny Chesney). Football season is upon us, and there is nothing like cheering for your favorite team. Mine is the Redskins, albeit not too much to cheer about yet this season. However, there is still plenty of turf ahead. The one thing I don’t like about football season is the music is turned off and the TV on.
    My favorite places to go during football games are the ones that have the TV on to view and the music in the background. If you are looking for a break from the sportscasters on Sunday, then start the day off with a jazz brunch at Fager’s with Everett Spells. To keep the music playing, step it up a notch and head to Coconuts for an afternoon with the Chest Pains. Follow that up by swinging in to M.R Ducks to hear Ginger. If you’re not familiar with the band Ginger, you may recognize its members. Lead vocalist, Nancy Micciulla, joins Dale Loeser, Corey Bonser, Dave Jarrell & Mike Curry to round out a full velocity dance band. They specialize in Motown, Pop, Rock, and Disco. So put on your favorite jersey and get out and dance and cheer.
    If you have not made your way to the Reel Inn this summer, you should definitely plan to on Saturday. Not only will it be the last chance until next spring, but Colossal Fossil Sauce will be keeping the crowd rolling. Not only have I spent many nights at the Reel Inn listening to them, but I have also seen the band on numerous occasions elsewhere. I can guarantee a fun night that shouldn’t be missed.
    The Annual Beach Bash to benefit Believe in Tomorrow took place at Seacrets last Monday. It was a great success. This organization benefits families of critically ill children who spend a large portion of every-day life in hospitals. Funds are used to upkeep properties that allow these families the opportunity to escape & enjoy the beauty and activities that we sometimes take for granted. Wayne Littleton, who operates the Beach Respite Housing Program, puts his heart and soul into each event and once again outdid himself.  As a volunteer selling raffle tickets, I was able to take part and witness the many businesses and citizens come together to support this very worthy cause. In addition, Full Circle entertained us with full spirit & DJ Batman kept the crowd in suspense as to the next number out on the $10,000 raffle. A quote taken from a mother of a sick son who spent a week at The Children’s House by the Sea… “This was a safe harbor, not a retreat, but a respite for my soul... I saw my son turn into a pirate, a fisherman, a golfer, a speedboat "captain," a seagull, a dolphin, a Coast Guard member, a biker, a mermaid... but most of all I've seen him surf.”  There are many volunteer opportunities available for young and old alike that are both rewarding & fun.
    Live music during the week is dwindling down. However, BJ’s on the Water helps us out with getting over “hump day”. From 5-9 on Wednesdays all through the off season, they provide live entertainment. This week Sir Rod will take the stage.
    I just left a really fun party with a group of friends who were all dancing and singing. As I was preparing to leave, the host said you can’t go without hearing Ray Charles. So, with the legendary singer on my mind, I will bid this week’s farewell with a quote from him... “I was born with music inside me. Music was one of my parts like my ribs, my kidneys, my liver, my heart… like my blood. It was a force already within me when I arrived on the scene. It was a necessity for me - like food or water.”