Madisyn and Hayden, grandchildren of Garry Blackman, learned to play instruments at Southport Central School. They both learned to play the ukulele and Hayden added the piano. For Garry, an accomplished musician, this is not small potatoes. Learning how to play a musical instrument is a very significant skill.

I know a little about that skill having choked a metal B flat clarinet to an all but lifeless state when in junior high school. My music instructor suggested once that I had the touch of the village blacksmith — a true assessment of my ability. To the best of my knowledge, I was one of the few members of the band who went from second seat second clarinet to last seat third, in one tryout session. My orchestral accomplishments were short lived! I transitioned to sports.

The wonderful thing about the Southport school, for all who know it, is its size, and the sense of community that is encouraged for attendees and staff. This is a special place which is obvious as soon as you enter the building. For the 15 or so students who gather during the school year, Southport Central School is very comfortable.

Garry Blackman was so pleased for the experience of his grandchildren. It meant the world to him. When he found out that the sound system used by students was failing, he offered to replace it. He mentioned the idea to his Knights of Pythias lodge members, and the idea to support the school got a green light. When I arrived to make a photo at the school (seen above), members Joe Hall, Mike Godleski, Pat Michael and Garry were just beginning to unload a pickup full of new and well functioning sound equipment. The idea of being helpful to others in the community is a well-intended and longstanding tradition for the lodge.

Over the years, the Knights of Pythias has offered financial aid and scholarship for area students who have sought to continue their education, particularly in the trades. Additionally, programs “KP Kids,” the “Gong Show” and field trips to Funtown, under Garry Blackman’s watchful eye and the lodge’s blessing, provided alternative activities for interested youth.

In part, Garry’s interest in supporting Southport school’s music program was connected to a longtime friendship and admiration for lodge member Dick McDougall, who Garry admired and chose to honor. Southport schoolteacher Meredith Roberts Fowlie is Mr. McDougall’s granddaughter and daughter of Al and Rebecca Roberts. Many older area residents may recall Mr. McDougall’s longtime work at Sample's Shipyard and his interest and participation in an active baseball career. Garry said he never heard Dick McDougall say a bad thing about anybody. The Knights of Pythias lodge created a scholarship fund in his honor.

The new sound equipment, which included huge speakers, new controller devices and a sophisticated mixing board, will be used for school activities and a talent show which is currently being planned. Ms. Fowlie will be a busy young lady connecting all the wires and learning the new system. It's a great gift and one that will add new sounds for years to come.