By Glenn Rolfe

DAGSBORO — For the third consecutive year, there will be no Beef & Brew. But there will be barbecue, featuring a popular zesty zing.

After a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19, the Indian River High School Alumni Association will cook up support for students’ past, present and future resumes with a chicken cookout, the group’s biggest 2022 fundraiser.

Set for April 9, the event will be held at Masonic Lodge 37 in Dagsboro, across from the Clayton Theatre. The Masons will lend their grilling expertise — and a key ingredient.

“It’s touted as being a secret sauce from the Masons. And it’s a local favorite,” said Karen Ware, president of the alumni association.

The carryout fundraiser will open at 10 a.m., rain or shine. And the hope is for a sellout of some 400 platters.

“It’s delicious because they’re usually sold out within a couple hours,” said Kim (Tribbitt) Roe, treasurer of the group. “So the chicken must be good.”

The $12 platter will include half a chicken, green beans, baked beans, a roll and dessert. While the Masons are sharing their skills, the Tribbitt sisters will once again lead the alumni cooking, from the homemade side dishes to their classic chocolate and vanilla cupcakes.

Cash or checks will be accepted. In addition, raffle tickets will be sold for a giant “wreath of gifts,” including over $700 in local gift cards. Tickets are one for $5 or three for $10, and the winner will be drawn in May.

This is the alumni association’s first big fundraiser in three years, since its annual springtime Beef & Brew events were canceled in 2020 and ’21 due to the pandemic.

However, factoring in COVID-19 uncertainties and the time required for planning, the group decided on the outdoor chicken barbecue instead.

Proceeds will support the IRHSAA Pride Scholarship and other avenues of support, including donations to various school clubs.

“I’m hoping people are generous because whatever we make is what we have to work with,” said Ms. Ware.

Scholarship program

The association will offer three scholarships this spring, to IR seniors and alumni of all ages. Applications are due April 26. The awards aren’t about academics or financial aid but the applicant’s school spirit or character.

Information can be obtained at the high school’s guidance office and here.

First, the Pride Scholarship will award multiple prizes of $500 to $1,000 to current seniors. Applicants must respond to the question, “How have you contributed to make IR a better place?” including with leadership, school spirit or good deeds.

Next, the Pride Scholarship for Current Alumni is offered to graduates of all prior years. Winners can receive $500 for any college level, from an associate degree to a postdoctoral, but applicants must be association members.

Finally, the Ridge Murray Memorial Scholarship is offered in honor of a 2014 IRHS graduate who passed away unexpectedly in November 2021.

“Through the generosity of his family, friends and the community, the Ridge Murray Memorial Scholarship has been established,” said his parents, Dana Murray and E. Bennett Murray IV. “Two $2,500 scholarships will be awarded to IRHS graduating seniors that show similar characteristics to Ridge in making our world a better place by helping others, community involvement, being a team player, respecting others and working hard.”

The Murray family has been overwhelmed by the community’s support and love, and they thanked everyone who contributed to the scholarship, which will be awarded for many years to come, they said.

“The Bennett family is a local, well-loved family with deep ties in the community, and everybody just wanted to find a way to honor his memory,” said Ms. Ware. “People have been really generous with the donations. I’ve just been amazed.”

The alumni association formed in 2012 to connect graduates, while supporting and promoting IRHS. With community support, it has given $61,000 in scholarships to nearly 70 students. The team meets monthly and welcomes new members and ideas.

Donations are accepted by mail to IRHS Alumni, 29772 Armory Road, Dagsboro, DE 19939 (memo line: “IR Pride Scholarship,” “Ridge Murray Scholarship” or “general donation”).

For more information, visit here, email indianriveralumni@gmail.com or follow the group on Facebook.