A LEGEND LIVES ON…. “The Star” is still shining!

By Kathleen Zehler

We can all count numerous times in our lives when we enjoyed listening to talented musicians play those melodious tunes that made us want to get up and dance, sit back and relax, or just tap our feet to the beat because it brought so much joy to us. Their talents aroused emotions in our hearts and souls that sometimes lasted a lifetime. The pleasure of good music played well is one of the best elixirs of life!

One such musician, who has created a lifetime of memories for a lot of us as he “tickled the ivories” on our Islands and beyond, is Bobby Gideons. Bobby was 4 years old when he first started playing the piano with his musical family and said it wasn’t until he reached high school that he realized he had to learn to READ music in order to play in the band. He was a gifted child with a keen ear for music

and spent endless hours perfecting his gift to play the piano, making him the legend he is today. It is with much sadness that Bobby’s friends have learned that he is battling ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease which is robbing him of one of the pleasures he loves most in life, playing the piano to entertain all of us.

Our community is known not only for its love of fine entertainment and excellent dining but especially for the generosity and quality of individuals who reside within it. Some of those amazing people came together from the Hideaway Beach Community coordinated by General Manager, Chris Reyelt, along with Bobby’s great friend of 50 years, Ray Jones, and created a night full of amazing music and excellent cuisine to show him their support, love and appreciation for all he has given to us.

The evening was a night to remember as famous musicians Ray Jones, Bob Leary and Mitch Peters volunteered their

time and talent to entertain Bobby’s friends and fans. Ray Jones, who has played with Bobby for over 50 years, stated it was an honor to help with the event. “We weep for Bobby but we are here tonight to celebrate his career!” Also there to volunteer for the grand event, was Celtic Spirit School of Irish Dance, whose dancers delighted the crowd with their lively, youthful performances and beautiful costumes.

The event brought a full house to Hideaway Beach Club, truly a house full of love and affection for a legend who has brought so much joy and happiness with his talent for “tickling the ivories.” (Some guests even flew into town just for the special evening.) The generosity of Bobby’s friends and fellow musicians will help immensely to defray Bobby’s medical costs during this crucial time. Once again, our wonderful Island People “Pay it Forward” demonstrating that we live in the best possible paradise, where the importance of our “Legends” is always remembered.