JOSH DAVIS/BAYSIDE GAZETTE
BCIA Chairman D.J. Lockwood speaks during a public meeting in February.

By Rachel Ravina, Staff Writer

(April 25, 2019) Preparations for the Old Fashion Memorial Day Parade in Berlin are underway, but organizers are calling for additional participation ahead of the May event.

DJ Lockwood, chairman of the Berlin Community Improvement Association, said organizers need help setting up, sees the need for more food and arts and crafts vendors.

“This parade [is] … a major outdoor event for the town for the town, for the east side of Berlin,” Lockwood said. “We don’t really have a major outdoor event.”

The parade starts at 11 a.m. on May 27, and the lineup will begin at 9 a.m. at Stephen Decatur Middle School on Seahawk Road in Berlin.

Lockwood said this year’s theme is “’Celebrating Women of Service,’ where we will recognize some of the women’s success and service in our community.”

Lockwood also encouraged people to come out because “the more the merrier.”

He said attendees could expect vendors, food, a dance competition and games at Dr. William Henry Park, in addition to the parade itself.

“This [event] brings patriotism to our neighborhood,” Lockwood said.

Lockwood said the association also is looking for photos, articles or other Memorial Day memorabilia related to past Memorial Days that the organization can display at the multipurpose building on Flower Street.

Lockwood is also hoping for sunny skies on parade day.

“Pray for good weather,” he said.” That’s the one thing that kills the parade is rain.”

He added that parade participants need to show an American flag, and attendees should don red, white and blue.

Applications for participation are due May 13.

Anyone who has questions or interest in participating should contact Lockwood at 443-497-3242, or via email at djlockwood334@gmail.com.