Donald “Clay” Clay, an Air Force veteran, was enjoying his stogie while chit chatting with friends, watching boats slipping by. On every weekday afternoon when the weather is fine, he and half dozen of his perennial friends such as Robert “Bleu” Jones and Kimo Tavares gather at the Slip Inn to chill, booze up and snack on the crowd-favorite George wings. No one knows for sure why they call them George, but rumor is one of the cooks from the earliest days in the 80s came up with the secret breading.

The Tiki bar and restaurant wasn’t located in the Navy Yard, Old Town Alexandria or the National Harbor — places packed with tourists. Instead it was tucked away at the edge of Joint Base Anacostia Bolling, a well-kept secret amongst retirees.  That’s why Clay, Bleu and a handful of old timers made it a daily ritual when the clouds are clear and the skies are blue.

And the weather forecast for the next three days was bright and promising. There was a ton of activity as military personnel and their families kicked off the glorious weekend with Country Western Night featuring a local, up-and-coming talent.

Sara Gray is a singer, song-writer from Indian Head, MD., just down the beaten river in Southern Maryland.  The first time she sang in public was at the age of three on a cruise ship — from the soundtrack of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. She watched her father sing in his local band, then started performed at church and has rendered the National Anthem at various community events.  At 16, she wrote her first song and her budding repertoire focuses on country and classic rock.  For the last year, her schedule has been in high demand, opening for country stars such as Toby Keith, Dierks Bentley, the Zac Brown Band and Luke Bryan and performing all over the DMV.

“What a gorgeous day,” Sara proclaimed. “I’m honored to be here at Joint Base Anacostia Bolling performing for our heroes — Freedom isn’t free, and thank you for fighting for our country.”

The Country Western Night event was organized by Freedom Live which brings quality, live entertainment to the military community within the National Capital Region.

“I’m so happy to be on the stage where I feel right at home. I love getting the crowd involved, clapping, dancing and singing along. They inspire me.”

Sara with her rich, soothing voice was not the only star of the show. Justin Voskuil and his illustrious team of bartenders were also performing on all cylinders.

“What a totally rad event,” Justin remarked. “We’ve ripped through a half dozen cases of rum and tequila and another half dozen of Goose Island [IPA].  People are celebrating as if it’s already the Fourth.”

The Parrot head cocktails revolved around tequila and rum with lime and pineapple wedges — something off the beaten path — and the right medicine for my spirit and mood.

When they were not concocting drinks, they were chatting up the clientele and running back and forth to the kitchen to order more of the crowd-favorite wings.

I most definitely was having a delightful time, but midway through the concert, I decided I needed a break. The water was calm reflecting the blue skies and silent clouds. The wind was mild, ensuring that I wouldn’t have to fight my way out or labor to get back. It was indeed a perfect time to go paddle boarding in the Potomac. At the landing, I launched my carbon fiber board and began to paddle briskly towards Haines Point — the peninsular that brings me peace. And serenity and inner soul was what I longed for.

After finding peace and solace with the bright, beautiful memorials alluring in the background, it was time to return to Sara and the revelers.  

I made it back in time for retreat, and after Clay and his buddies placed their hands over their hands for the National Anthem, they diverted their attention to the ensuing sunset.

“Such a wonderful moment” Clay remarked. “Love hanging out at the Slip Inn with my best of friends. So glad I got to enjoy this evening with Sara Gray and her beloved fans.”

“This moment is priceless, and y’all have been beyond inspirational,” Sara said. “I’ve enjoyed every minute here.  Just spending time with you has brought me a whole host of ideas, and God willing, it will be part of my next song.”

Sara is indeed highly talented with a bright future ahead. And thanks to Sara, the clouds are clear and the skies are blue.

Photos by Skvora limited media