Boy Howdy Music Fans! One thing that living in Ocean City year round teaches us is how to survive and entertain ourselves in conditions of adversity. Of course, all the great deals offered by area establishments don’t hurt. Half priced entrees and Happy Hour deals make it easier to maintain a social existence. The winter O.C. experience for me prescribes more mellow and milk toast activities like catching up on movies, books and practice at guitar playing. Fortunately, these kinds of things aren’t costly and are a constructive way to fill the hours. Between sports and travel destinations, we all do what we can to stay busy. A little bit of downtime is a healthy thing; too much idle time isn’t really a good thing for most people. One plus about year round living here is a perpetual sense of the ‘light’ at the end of the tunnel. Sure, we all can use a break right now, but when spring comes around we’re more than ready!
    Thanks to everyone involved in last Friday’s Jammin for a Cure breast cancer fundraiser hosted by Seacrets. The Fish Tales crew ponied up a giant check, funds accrued by The Poor Girl’s Open. The bands were fun and right on time. Chris English, Margot Resto, Jim Mathias, Fuzzbox Piranha and Pompous Pie all had a good time rockin’ for a cause! Thanks to Rico and the Seacrets staff and also to the countless sponsors and patrons.
    A rare Saturday night off led me to Pickles Pub on 8th St & Phil. Ave. The draw was obvious; one of my favorite people and master music mixer DJ Wax was in the house. Rob was enjoying pulling out the kitchen sink to liven up the crowd. It’s always great to see Aaron, Amber, Tiffany and Adam working the place. The one missing was Monique, and where were you?? Look for DJ Wax and possibly some more live entertainment at Pickles over the winter. Tues. is $2.00 beer night and Pigskin Sundays have been very strong. Come get Pickled!
    A couple of closing parties to look for are next weekend. Fish Tales closes up ‘09 next weekend and M.R. Ducks will shut down for the season next Sun. 10/25 with local fave Johnny Bling! Weather permitting, look for Dr. Harmonica and Rockett 88 this Sat. 10/17. Sunday look for the Coconut Times Entertainers of the Year (‘09), Tranzfusion, down on the dock at The Talbot Street Pier! This time of year all shows start, say 4ish! Thanks to Ducks for another great year and we apologize for the cancellation of Pompous Pie last Sat. due to high winds.
    Don’t forget Fager’s Island is hosting the Claim to Fame talent competition on Tues. nights. Kevin Poole and company are the house band, play with them, play solo or bring your own band. Original music is encouraged while pre-recorded music is NOT permitted. The grand prize is free studio time. Apply at Fager’s Island 59th St and the bay. Break a Leg!
    Beach Music in West OC (Rt. 611) offers whatever gear any musicians might need for whatever reason. Drums, P.A. systems, accessories and, of course, guitars, guitars, guitars! Beach Music also offers music lessons for the beginner or the more advanced player. Now that’s a great winter project!
    One point of interest also brought to my attention this week - Now we’ve all heard of “Ladies Night”; but “Mens Night”? Micky Fins on Rt. 50 has a night geared for the guys: Steak specials, whiskey drink specials and a few more surprises for the gentlemen!
    Look for Pompous Pie this Sat. (10/17) at Duffy’s (130th St) for the monthly Blarney Party at 9pm.
    Til next time, Tah!! – Marco Ink