April 2023 Newsletter
Ready, Set, Go!
April is always a busy time of the year on DelMarVa. Spring has sprung, the days are getting longer and warmer, and the landscape is shedding its winter coat of grey for spring green. Painted eggs and chocolate bunnies will be in abundance as Rehoboth Beach and the world celebrate Easter on April 9. Here at Rehoboth Beach Main Street, Rehoboth in Bloom is gearing up for another beautification season while RBMS is getting ready for both the Gumbo and Margarita Crawls and the ever-popular Oldies Dance. Excitement is in the air as Rehoboth Beach businesses are reopening and busily preparing for another beach season by restocking inventory, sprucing up their store fronts, refreshing menus, and planning for a myriad of special events to entertain the thousands of tourists who will join local residents in celebrating the summer of 2023. This month we are spotlighting a few spectacular inns; sources for massage, yoga, and other services; and a couple of restaurants—as well as a number of shopping destinations for your enjoyment.
The Avenue Inn & Spa at 33 Wilmington Avenue will make you feel at home in one of their air-conditioned rooms featuring refrigerators and microwave ovens, as well as many other amenities such as free onsite parking, breakfast, and high-speed internet. While here be sure to treat yourself to their featured massages, body treatments, and facials.
If you like the feel of a small modern European hotel, then The Bellmoor Inn at 6 Christian Street may be more to your liking. Located within easy walking distance to the boardwalk and beach, it has been reborn with elegant rooms and suites with air conditioning, free breakfast, and high-speed internet to name a few. Many other luxurious amenities to make your stay enjoyable are also featured.
For a fun time for all, be sure to stop by The Purple Parrot Grill Beach Haus & Biergarten at 134 Rehoboth Avenue. A local favorite, open year-round, the Purple Parrot offers good vibes, a lively Key West atmosphere, delicious food, daily drink specials, and much more. Whether you go for lunch or dinner you will be in for a real treat. An extensive menu of appetizers, sandwiches, and daily drink specials are offered for you and your friends, guaranteeing a good time against a backdrop of colorful cartoon murals.
If shopping is on your agenda a visit to Penny Lane Mall at 42 Rehoboth Avenue is worth a walk-through. Nestled in a quaint European-inspired open-air alley between Rehoboth and Wilmington Avenues, Penny Lane Mall features a diverse selection of small shops with art, games, souvenirs, and food. It is a favorite stop for locals and vacationers alike.
Dos Locos Fajita & Stonegrill at 208 Rehoboth Avenue has brought award-winning Tex-Mex fare and stonegrill cooking to the Avenue for decades. Serving some of the best margaritas in town, along with stone-grilled lobster tails, scallops, lamb, shrimp, and steak, there is something here for the whole family to enjoy. You will find the atmosphere pleasantly festive, so pamper your taste buds with a visit to Dos Locos.
Just off the Boardwalk at 18 Rehoboth Avenue is The Coffeehouse Powered by Schell Brothers where you will find delicious hand-crafted coffee and vogue cuisine with a laid-back beach vibe. More than just coffee and great food, they strive to bring happiness to your day by making wholesome and delicious deserts. Using only clean plant-based ingredients filled with vitamins, minerals, protein fiber, and good fats that will make you feel good about yourself. Be sure and glance up at the ceiling as you are entering this establishment.
If you’d like to pamper yourself, the HeartWish Healing Center, at 301 Rehoboth Avenue, Suite G, offers holistic healing of the heart, mind, body, and soul through massage, energy work, and body work. The HeartWish skilled therapists are licensed, insured, and certified in a myriad of healing modalities—to help you feel better.
All of these businesses are members of Rehoboth Beach Main Street, and you can read more specifics about them later on in this newsletter. So, get ready, get set, and go into April and the beginning of the 2023 Rehoboth Beach Season!
Current and past issues of the newsletter are available on the RBMS Website at Newsletter | Home | Rehoboth Beach Main Street (downtownrb.com)
New Businesses & Membership Renewals
RBMS welcomes Avenue Inn & Spa as a new Green Partner!
RBMS thanks Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats and Chesapeake & Maine for renewing at the Blue Partner level!
RBMS thanks these businesses for renewing as RBMS members!
· Go Fish
For information about levels and benefits of RBMS membership, go to Join | Rehoboth Beach Main Street (downtownrb.com)
Showcasing Rehoboth Beach Businesses
Avenue Inn & Spa
Dan Slagle
At The Avenue Inn & Spa, 33 Wilmington Avenue, a comfortable, coastal vibe belies an uncompromising commitment to guest service and attention to detail. A variety of room types and suites accommodate beachgoing families, travelers, and those seeking an extended stay. All guests enjoy a multitude of complimentary amenities.
The Avenue Inn & Spa is an historic, family-owned and -operated hotel known for its top-notch amenities, exceptionally clean rooms, friendly service, and prime location—just a block from the beach and boardwalk.
From its start as a “tearoom” in 1937, The Avenue has flourished over four generations to become the go-to property in Rehoboth Beach for family vacations, romantic getaways, spa, outings, and events.
The Avenue Inn is an expert in coastal comfort. Thousands of guests have rated it the #1 TripAdvisor hotel in Rehoboth Beach—as well as one of the top-rated hotels in the US and the top 10% of hotels worldwide. Phone (302) 226-2900. Email: frontdesk@avenueinn.com. Website: https://avenueinn.com/ Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/AvenueInn/about
Purple Parrot Grill
Peter Beck
After almost two years of patient waiting, my brother finally stopped making excuses and drove down from Manhattan for a relaxing late winter weekend at the beach. We wanted to have Saturday night dinner somewhere with a chill vibe that reminds us of the time when we were young—in our twenties—and also a place where people of all ages, shapes, and sizes can feel comfortable and at ease. What better place could there be than the Purple Parrot, located at 137 Rehoboth Avenue!
I explained to Steve that the Parrot has been a mainstay of the Rehoboth scene since it opened in the late 90s. Steve immediately noticed the bright cheerful Key West decor and the charming front entrance, as well as the front veranda of the building which is one of the few remaining late nineteenth century masterpieces on Rehoboth Avenue.
We sauntered over to the bar and relaxed with a beer or two. The bar was not very crowded, so we were able to have pleasant conversations and catch up. My brother enjoyed the casual ambiance with all the exposed wooden beams and cheerful decorations; he stated that it did remind him of the kind of place we would have enjoyed in college. In addition, he found all of the dollar bills that hang on the walls and ceilings quite fascinating, and we spent some time trying to imagine how many thousands of dollars in bills are on display!
As the bar began to get more crowded, we went over to the dining area to enjoy our dinner. The crowd indeed contained people of all ages, from just barely drinking age to folks in their seventies. The waiter was quite friendly and provided us with an extensive menu of tasty, casual food. Steve, who is a fitness nut even when on vacation, ordered his typical healthy dinner: a hamburger with no bun and a salad. I am not so health conscious, so I enjoyed some truly scrumptious grilled chicken quesadillas, justifiably billed on the menu as “infamous” for how delicious they are.
Suddenly it was 9 o’clock, and the DJ set up his equipment for karaoke! Within minutes people in the crowd were dancing to the oldies, singing both on and off key, and having a fantastic time. While we decided not to partake, we enjoyed watching everyone relaxing and getting wild.
On the way out I showed Steve the Biergarten, which is a fantastic place to hang out when the weather gets warmer. Added in 2010, the Biergarten has been a big hit with locals and tourists alike during the summer months!
Be sure to stop in at the Purple Parrot at 137 Rehoboth Avenue for fun comfort food and a great time with friends and neighbors. Visit their website at http://www.ppgrill.com for more information about the Parrot.
Dos Locos
Jeff Balk
Dos Locos first opened in 1992 in downtown Rehoboth Beach. The restaurant is known not only for their authentic Mexican food but also their great customer service over the years. Originally opened by two women as just a take-out taco stand, it then turned into a sit-down restaurant.
In 2000, two men now well-known for their restaurants, Joe and Darryl, were on vacation and wanted a change. A For Sale sign was posted on the restaurant window, and after further investigation they saw the business as one that they could work six months out of the year and vacation the other six months.
In 2003, they moved to a larger space on Wilmington Avenue and then onto Rehoboth Avenue in 2007. There went the ‘open six months and closed six months,’ as Dos Locos was now open year-round. What was once a 56-seat restaurant became a 186-seater.
Now owned by brothers Mit and Ayan Patel, many of the traditions remain, including weekly specials. Monday night is a favorite with Stonegrill Steak specials, Tuesdays feature Tres Tacos, Wednesdays $5 off fajitas, Thursdays Stonegrill Seafood Special, Fridays King Crab Legs, and weekends are full of drink specials.
Dos Locos believes in preparing the best food possible with the best ingredients—from stone-grilled lobster tail, scallops, and lamb, to shrimp and steak, to traditional Mexican dishes. Not hungry for food, try their house-made sangria or one of their amazing margaritas!
For more information, visit their web site, doslocos.com, or call 302-227-3353.
Penny Lane Mall
Peter Beck
The Penny Lane Mall has had an iconic presence in Rehoboth Beach for decades. Visitors often comment that they feel like they are in Europe, strolling around the oldest part of the city where the streets are narrow, charming, and alley sized. The brick walkway meanders from Rehoboth Avenue to Wilmington Avenue, with clapboard siding on the buildings and a beautiful old-world clock in the center of the mall.
The old alleyway was converted into a beautiful, charming lane full of small shops that are locally owned and operated. The extraordinary variety of shops make for a fantastic shopping experience: Shops such as Sea Finds, Gifts of Serenity, the Old Salt Gift Shop, Fun for All Toys, The Sunglass Company, Jewel Star, the Surf Shack, Sean Kelley Art, and Penny Lane Lighting always offer intriguing items for shoppers at great prices! Whether you are looking for birthday gifts, holiday presents, or something for that special someone, you are sure to find something unique at Penny Lane Mall.
If you are in the mood for a cozy respite from the crowds of Rehoboth Avenue during the summer months, Café Papillon is sure to please! Enjoy a wonderful French meal at the outdoor cafe right in the middle of the mall. It’s also a perfect place to “people watch” in a shady location. Finally, you can also enjoy refreshing ice cream at Archie's Ice Cream Shop.
Several years ago, due to its quaint charm, the Penny Lane Mall represented Delaware as one of the most incredible and surprising tourist secrets in the United States! We are proud to have the most unique tourist secret right here in our town! Check out the article at https://www.insider.com/best-kept-secret-tourist-spot-in-every-state-2019-5.
The Coffee House Powered by Schell Brothers
Peter Beck
The Coffee House Powered by Schell Brothers is a coffee shop located just a few steps down from the boardwalk at 18 Rehoboth Avenue. After Mug and Spoon closed shop, the Coffee Shop reopened in 2021 after a hiatus of several years.
Visitors love the bright, cheerful, and "beachy" look of the building. There's a wonderful aroma of coffee right outside the door. The Coffee House offers coffee aficionados a wide variety of wonderful hot drinks. As well, the Coffee House partners with the Local Coffee Roasting Co. to offer customers the highest quality coffee!
In addition, the Coffee House partners with Old World Breads and provides the most delicious and fresh-baked goods! The menu includes tasty breakfast treats such as the Chesapeake Scrambled Egg Bowl, the Newport Breakfast Burrito, and the Whimbrel Oats Bowl. Need lunch to take out to the beach? The Coffee House offers a "picnic lunch box" of delicious, freshly made sandwiches, such as the classic Orchid B.L.T. or the Shearwater Stacked Meat Sandwich. Cookies, doughnuts, and other goodies are available.
Finally, at the Coffee House, all sorts of fun souvenirs of your visit to Rehoboth Beach are displayed along the wall; items such as mugs, thermoses, beach towels, beach bags, and kitchen towels and available to purchase.
The Coffee House is open now for the new season. Currently, hours are Thursday–Sunday from 8:00am–2:00pm; business hours will expand in April! Be sure to stop in or check out their menu at https://schellbrothers.com/the-coffee-house/. Contact TheCoffeeHouse@schellbrothers.com.
The Bellmoor Inn and Spa
Colleen Evans
I’ve been coming to Rehoboth Beach since college, now a full-time resident, and I have always had a fondness for The Bellmoor Inn and Spa. It’s where to go for a stylish, cozy stay!
Whether you’re looking to book a long weekend within driving distance from the mid-Atlantic region, an extended stay, or a corporate or social event, the 78 room-and-suites Bellmoor Inn and Spa, at 6 Christian Street, is a beautiful, tranquil oasis you'll surely make as your new go-to for a sweet escape.
This historic inn, a premier seaside destination oozing coastal chic with modern styling, has local charm and features award-winning service and amenities of a luxury resort.
The hotel staff, led by effervescent hotel manager Kiley James-Smith, mirror her enthusiasm and passion for the hotel with history. “The Dinner Bell was the first hotel in Rehoboth to offer dining in the 1930s” says James-Smith. “We have kept the original structures from the start to uphold the historical feel. which include the King Garden rooms, the Palmer House rooms, and the Gardener’s Cottage. The groundskeeper lived in the Gardener’s cottage. We still have the original Bell they would ring for meals in our adult pool area.”
The Inn features a unique flair that includes a relaxing library filled with books and games, and The Inn boasts one of Coastal Delaware’s finest day spas. Services and amenities at The Spa—open 7 days a week—include a relaxing sun terrace, two swimming pools, and lush gardens, as well as a variety of skin, hair, and body treatments, like their newly launched HydraFacial. Other amenities include a hot tub, a fitness center, a shuttle to and from Rehoboth’s legendary beaches, and free charging stations for electric vehicles.
Each of its 78 rooms and suites feels more like a bespoke room you might find in a well-appointed manor where no detail is left unturned. Rooms are refined, including hardwood flooring, free Wi-Fi, and smart televisions, and the public spaces are of the intimate kind.
Included with your stay is a lavish complimentary breakfast, served each morning, and complimentary afternoon refreshments, such as fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies. Specialty cocktails and spirits, served by Rehoboth’s most personable bartender, Brett, can be found at the Inn’s bar, which is for hotel guests only. I had the pleasure of sampling one of Brett’s most popular cocktails, the Bellmoor Bellini—Prosecco and raspberry puree. It’s fruity, sweet, and the perfect amount of sparkly goodness.
The Bellmoor Inn is the most pleasing boutique hotel, a quiet escape that awaits travelers looking for luxury, privacy, and amazing food and service. Phone: 302-227-5800.
HeartWish Healing Center
Dan Slagle
Located in Downtown Rehoboth Beach at 301 Rehoboth Avenue, the HeartWish Healing Center has been in business for 10 years. They offer many types of massage such as Swedish, Deep Tissue, Prenatal, & Couples. In addition to massage, HeartWish has facials, dermaplaning, Reiki, and Chakra Balancing to help relax, balance, restore, and rejuvenate the emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical bodies. They regularly hold special events, workshops, and lectures on a variety of spiritual and health related topics. Join them every Thursday for a weekly Cosmic Sound Bath and check their schedule for yoga and dance workshops.
Currently, HeartWish holds a 2-hour Belly Dance Workshop every two weeks and a monthly New Moon Women’s Wellness Workshop. For the month of April, a weekly Sunday morning Restorative Yoga & Breathwork class is held at 11:00am. The Intro to the Chakras 3-hour workshop is Friday, April 28th at 5:30pm. They also host private birthday and bachelorette parties with belly dance and aerial yoga themes. All linens are laundered with natural, dye-free, phosphate-free, and biodegradable detergent. The studio uses only earth-friendly cleaning products. They cater to clients with chemical sensitivities.
The HeartWish Healing Center is located in the Shops at the Pearl Mall. The center's services are available Monday through Saturday. Gift certificates are available. Please call 302-727-5501 or email HeartWish for appointments and more information.
Correction
RBMS regrets that we included an incorrect picture with the Business Showcase for Aroma Mediterranean Cuisine in the March issue of the Newsletter. This is the picture that should have been included with the article. Apologies to our friends at Aroma!
News from Rehoboth Beach Main Street Members
Radio Rehoboth in Need of Studio Space
In support of Radio Rehoboth, RBMS is putting out a call for any in-town business that might have a small space available as a tax-deductible donation that would provide 99.1 with studio space. The requirements are pretty basic: accessibility, climate control, power, and the ability to hook up their own internet access and phone. If you think you may be able to provide a space, please reach out to Jeff Balk at Radio Rehoboth at 302-510-9000 or info@radiorehoboth.com.
Off-Season Daily Specials Return to Rehoboth Beach
Special thanks to RBMS member The Canalside Inn for again publishing the Off-Season Daily Specials in Downtown Rehoboth Beach! Come on out to enjoy a meal with an off-season discount! Off Season Rehoboth Beach Restaurant Deals (subscribepage.com)
News from Rehoboth Beach Main Street
New Staff at RBMS
RBMS is pleased to announce a new staff position! George Yaksic begins as Part-Time Program Coordinator on April 3. In this position, he will be responsible for maintaining the membership database, managing RBMS correspondence, managing and maintaining successful relationships with the media, and other tasks. See the RBMS Newsletter May issue for a Spotlight on George, RBMS Program Coordinator!
Do you know about all the great info on the Rehoboth Beach Main Street Website?
The RBMS Website is a source of valuable information for residents, businesses, and visitors to Rehoboth Beach! If you live or work in Rehoboth Beach—or are coming to town for a short or long stay—you can find:
· Hotels and B&Bs for out-of-town guests, all within walking distance to Rehoboth Beach’s many attractions
· Restaurants, cafés, bistros, and ice cream and candy shops to delight your palate
· Shops to buy souvenirs, clothes, jewelry, paintings, sculptures, and many more items for yourself and to give as gifts
· Places to pamper yourself—for a mani-pedi, massage, yoga, and more
· Sources of fun—amusement parks, bicycle rentals, and more
· Services you can use, such as homebuilding, interior design, co-work office spaces, the public library
What else is on the RBMS Website?
· News from Rehoboth in Bloom—the RBMS program that promotes the beautification of downtown Rehoboth Beach through community involvement by encouraging the use of flowers, plants, trees, and other environmental enhancements
· A News page that includes updates from RBMS, such as job openings, and the current and past monthly RBMS Newsletters
· An Events page that highlights upcoming events sponsored by RBMS and member businesses, as well as other community events
· A Join page with information about RBMS membership—for businesses and individuals (Friends of RBMS)
· A Member Resources page with information about the Cottage & Town Awards, Sign & Awning Grants, and more
· Pages to Sign-Up for the RBMS Newsletter, to Donate to RBMS, and to Contact RBMS staff and board members
We hope to see you on the RBMS Website soon!
RBMS Member Survey
Current and former members of RBMS were sent a Member Survey in March. The survey is part of our effort to understand downtown business operations, as well as ensure that RBMS is providing the right benefits to our members and offering the types of activities that will help to keep Rehoboth Beach a real hometown and a thriving resort community. Please respond to the survey: It takes only a few minutes to complete; most questions are multiple choice. Please let us know your thoughts and help Rehoboth Beach Main Street know what matters to our members. We will use the information collected from your responses for planning future events and other activities in support of Rehoboth Beach’s businesses, residents, and visitors. Please complete and return the survey by April 7, 2023.
Looking for something to do on an April afternoon...
Rehoboth Beach Then and Now—Take a self-guided walking tour on the Built Story mobile app! Tour takers can explore downtown Rehoboth Beach and learn about the 19th century religious summer camp, how the fires and storms shaped the community, the transformative impact of the railroad, and the illustrious citizens who made Rehoboth Beach what it is today. The app is available from either Android or iPhone app stores for free. The 15-stop tour of downtown focuses on how the city evolved from its 19th century roots as a rural community, the arrival of the summer religious camp in the 1870s, the arrival of the railroad, and the “battles” between the “saints and sinners” that influenced the later development of the community.
The Built Story mobile app is free and tickets for each tour are $10.00. Tickets for individual tours are good for 30 days and may be viewed more than once. The Built Story app is also your gateway to other tours around the world. Half of the proceeds from this tour benefit Rehoboth Beach Main Street. For more information, call the RBMS office at 302-227-2772.
RBMS Activities and Events
See the stories below for information about the new Canalside Garden, Sign and Awning Grant Program, Cottage and Town Awards, Gumbo Crawl, Oldies Dance, and Margarita Crawl! A lot happening this Spring!
Rehoboth in Bloom: Canalside Garden Is Taking Shape!
The brand new Canalside Garden Team—Bob Arner, Roberta Rizzo, Sheryl Jeske, and Paula Evans—planted 40 perennials and shrubs in March. Be sure to stop by and take a look! A little bit of rain will surely help. Once again, thank you Senator Ernie Lopez, the State of Delaware, Dogfish Head and Brewings, and the City of Rehoboth Beach!!
Be on the lookout for the Annuals that will be added to the Garden on May 8!
Volunteer Recognition: Paul Swiderski
Steve Sheffer
Our April volunteer shout-out is for Paul Swiderski, Rehoboth Beach Main Street Economic Vitality Committee Vice-Chair. Paul began as a member of the Economic Vitality Committee in early 2022 and was selected to be Vice-Chair in December 2022. When he is not volunteering for RBMS, Paul is the owner of Microbiz Accounting Financial and Business Services, LLC, in Lewes. Since receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Kings College (Wilkes-Barre, PA) in 1995, Paul developed a passion for helping small businesses thrive. Prior to opening his practice in 2003, he used his accounting background working for a variety of organizations, including serving as controller for Penn State Seed Corporation (Dallas PA), CFO for the Greater Pittston (PA) YMCA, and project controls director for the Bell Corporation (Rochester NY).
It was Paul’s fervor for small business that eventually led him to volunteer with RBMS. In addition to helping with the events sponsored by RBMS, Paul regularly visits downtown businesses to assist them, share with them the benefits that come with being a member of RBMS, and offer assistance for their accounting and other business needs. Paul also volunteers with the Shepherds Office outside of tax season by playing guitar for their morning prayer service; serves on the board of Your Infinite Paths Foundation (Waldorf MD); and is an active volunteer, board member, and financial committee member for Bayshore Community Church. When not working, Paul enjoys fishing and golf, and he can often be found entertaining patrons at local establishments with his guitar, singing 60s and 70s hits.
Thank you, Paul, for all that you do for RBMS!
Gumbo Crawl 2023
The 2023 Rehoboth Beach Gumbo Crawl will be held on Saturday, April 29th, 1:00pm–4:00pm. The Gumbo Crawl is co-hosted by the Purple Parrot Grill and RBMS. Skip breakfast on Saturday, April 29th, so you can be good and hungry for the 2023 edition of the Rehoboth Beach Gumbo Crawl!
Fifteen area restaurants are participating in this year’s event.
Above the Dunes 101 S. Boardwalk | Mariachi Restaurant 14 Wilmington Avenue |
Aqua 57 Baltimore Avenue | Purple Parrot 134 Rehoboth Avenue |
Blackwall Hitch 52 Rehoboth Avenue | Rehoboth Ale House 15 Wilmington Avenue |
Café Azafrán 18 Baltimore Avenue | Rigby’s Bar & Grill 404 Rehoboth Avenue |
Cooter Brown’s 70 Rehoboth Avenue | The Pines 56 Baltimore Avenue |
Dos Locos 208 Rehoboth Avenue | Tiki Jac’s Street Eats & Brews 71 Rehoboth Avenue |
The Federal 62A Rehoboth Avenue | Zogg’s 1 Wilmington Avenue |
Freddie’s Beach Bar 3 South First Street | |
The 2023 Gumbo Crawl is a perfect way to kick off the Spring in Rehoboth Beach. Tickets for the event are $20 each and allow you to taste a variety of delicious creations at any or all this year’s participating restaurants. Tickets are now on sale and available for purchase Monday and Friday, 10:00am–6:00pm, Tuesday–Thursday, 10:00a–5:00pm and Saturday 10:00am–1:00pm at the Rehoboth Beach Main Street Office, 509 Rehoboth Avenue, next to the Rehoboth Beach Museum and Grove Park. Only 1,000 tickets will be sold, so if you’re planning to attend—get your tickets NOW!
RBMS is selling Gumbo Crawl T-shirts, as well! Get yours at the RBMS office when you purchase your Gumbo Crawl tickets! The T-shirts are available in sizes S to 4XL.
Tickets and T-shirts payments by cash and check are $20.00 per ticket/shirt purchased (no fee); or pay with a credit card: $21.00 per ticket/shirt purchased.
For more information, email dan@downtownrb.com or info@ppgrill.com, or call RBMS at 302-227-2772.
The 2023 Oldies Dance
RBMS–Rehoboth in Bloom will hold the Second Annual Oldies Dance fundraiser on Friday, May 19, from 7:00pm to 10:00pm, at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center. Music will be provided by the awesome DJ, Skye Brady. The dance is the annual major fundraising event for the fabulous work Bloom does to make downtown a very special and picturesque place to visit.
Tickets for the event are $25 per person and are available at the Rehoboth Beach Main Street office or through Eventbrite at downtownRB.com/Bloom (scroll to the bottom of the webpage). Only 350 tickets will be sold; if available, they will be sold at the door. Beer, wine, coffee, and dessert will be available. The event will also feature a Wine Pull: For a $20 donation you can take a chance on ‘pulling’ a ‘top shelf’ wine valued at $20 or much more! So—dine downtown and then come to the Convention Center to do the slop, mashed potato, twist, jerk, Bristol stomp, pony, disco swing, hustle, and any other favorite Oldies Dance moves! For more information, email Cindy Lovett at info@pdlovett.com. Tickets are available online.
Sign and Awning Grants Available for RBMS Members
If you are a merchant, business, or property owner in Rehoboth Beach’s downtown historic commercial district, we want to help you save money on your sign and awning purchases. Rehoboth Beach Main Street has allocated $2,000.00 for (4) $500.00 sign and awning matching grants per calendar year. The Grant will provide funding for up to 50% of the total cost of the sign or awning, but not to exceed $500. The sign must be installed in the calendar year it is applied for. Grants are competitive and will be awarded if applications meet with proposed guidelines, on a first-come first-served basis until funds are depleted.
The RBMS matching grant requirements and guidelines are designed to improve visual unity and enhance the historic look of our downtown.
For more information on the Sign and Awning Grants program, go to Sign & Awning Grant | Rehoboth Beach Main Street (downtownrb.com) or contact Cindy at info@pdlovett.com.
Cottage and Town Awards Competition Scheduled
Rehoboth Beach Main Street is hosting an Open House/Press Event for the 2023 RBMS Cottage and Town Awards on Saturday, May 20, 11:00am, at the RBMS office (509 Rehoboth Avenue, adjacent to Grove Park). Refreshments will be served, and details about the upcoming Cottage and Town Awards will be available. Nominations are now being accepted. The begin start date for construction can be anytime in 2022 through early 2023, the end date for construction is August 1, 2023, at 5:00pm.
The Cottage and Town Awards recognizes excellence in 4 categories: Residential Renovation or Reconstruction, New Construction, Commercial Construction, and Landscape Design. The winner in each category receives a bronze plaque commemorating this achievement, which can be mounted to the home or business.
Winner announcements will be posted on the RBMS Website on August 21st and in the Cape Gazette on August 24th. The Bellmoor Inn and Spa has once again offered to host the Award Ceremony in mid-September. Visit www.downtownrb.com for the application form and details.
Sponsor Request
Rehoboth Beach Main Street is offering RBMS members and others an opportunity to become sponsors for the upcoming 2023 Cottage and Town Awards program. Sponsors who donate $500 will be included in all promotional material and events, including the May 20 Award Competition Open House/Press Event and the mid-September Award Ceremony. Rehoboth Beach Main Street is a 501(c)(3) organization, which means your donation is tax deductible.
We would love to welcome RBMS members and others as sponsors for this year’s competition. For more information, contact Mary Vandenberg, Cottage and Town Awards Chair for the RBMS Design Committee, at vandenberg1000@comcast.net.
Mark Your Calendars!
The 2023 Margarita Crawl
The 2023 Margarita Crawl is scheduled for June 3, 2023, from 1:00–4:00pm. RBMS thanks Adam at Rehoboth Ale House for trusting us with this event—and we are working hard to get everything set up to ensure a successful, fun Crawl!
This year’s Margarita Crawl is sponsored by Dano’s Dangerous Tequila. We are thrilled to be pairing with this great company! In addition to the Dano’s tequila margaritas, participating restaurants are also asked to prepare Mock Margaritas for Crawl-goers who would prefer a non-alcoholic version.
There are only 15 spots to participate. RBMS Restaurant Members have been invited to request one of the spots—and we will take the first 15 restaurants that respond.
Ticket holders will have a chance to vote on the following categories:
· 1st, 2nd, & 3rd Best Margarita
· Most Unique/Creative Margarita
· Best Mock Margarita
To purchase a ticket for the Margarita Crawl: Look for information in the May issue of the RBMS Newsletter, as well as on the Featured Events | Rehoboth Beach Main Street (downtownrb.com) and via the RBMS Facebook and Instagram pages.
See you on June 3rd!
SAVE THE DATE
Fine Art and Fine Craft Show
Thursday, April 6, 5:00pm–7:00pm
Village Improvement Association Clubhouse
Boardwalk and Grenoble St.
Members and local artists will display and sell their art.
Coastal Delaware Running Festival
Friday, April 14–Sunday, April 16, 7:00am
Rehoboth Avenue & Boardwalk
Start and Finish on the iconic Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk. 5k in Dewey Beach on Saturday and weekend combined Challenge Runs. Scenic, Flat & Fast Course.
Big Finisher Medals for Full, Half, 9k & 5k! Special Gift for all 9k, Half & Full Marathoners and Challenge Runs! Gender Specific Technical T-Shirts for 9k, Half & Full Marathons.
Friday & Saturday Packet Pick Up & Expo. Sunday Funday Finish Line Party at Grotto Pizza w/ pizza, pasta, salads, wings, beer, DJ Rupe, & more! Complimentary Post Race Beer (21 & over). Both Saturday & Sunday. FREE Race Photos! Great Race Swag!
For more information, go to: https://www.codelrun.com/
Rehoboth Beach Museum
Lecture: The Story of the Dinner Bell Inn
Friday, April 14, 2:00pm and 4:00pm
511 Rehoboth Avenue
Visit the Rehoboth Beach Museum on April 14th for a presentation on the Dinner Bell Inn, one of Rehoboth’s most popular restaurants from 1937 to 1999. The Inn was founded by Ruth Cowgill Emmert; the lecture speaker is Ruth’s granddaughter Donna Emmert Vassalotti. There will be history and stories about the folks who worked, ate, and stayed at the famous restaurant and motel.
Due to the anticipated popularity of this program, the Museum is holding two presentations. You may sign up for the 2:00pm or 4:00pm time slot. rehobothbeachmuseum.org Phone: 302-227-7310.
Clear Space Theatre
MATILDA (Spotlight on Young Performers)
Friday, April 14, 7:00pm; Saturday, April 15, 2:00pm and 7:00pm; & Sunday, April 16, 2:00pm
20 Baltimore Avenue
Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, the Tony Award-winning Roald Dahl's Matilda The Musical is the captivating masterpiece from the Royal Shakespeare Company that revels in the anarchy of childhood, the power of imagination, and the inspiring story of a girl who dreams of a better life. With the book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin, Matilda has won 47 international awards and continues to thrill sold-out audiences of all ages around the world.
Matilda is a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence, and psychokinetic powers. She's unloved by her cruel parents but impresses her schoolteacher, the highly loveable Miss Honey. Over the course of her first term at school, Matilda and Miss Honey have a profound effect on each other's lives, as Miss Honey begins not only to recognize but also appreciate Matilda's extraordinary personality. Matilda's school life isn't completely smooth sailing, however: The school's mean headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, hates children and just loves thinking up new punishments for those who don't abide by her rules. But Matilda has courage and cleverness in equal amounts and could be the school pupils' saving grace!
Packed with high-energy dance numbers, catchy songs, and an unforgettable star turn for a young actress, Matilda is a joyous girl power romp. Children and adults alike will be thrilled and delighted by the story of the special little girl with an extraordinary imagination.
BUY TICKETS to Matilda
The First Annual Harry K Foundation Chocolate Crawl!
Saturday, April 15, from 1:00pm to 4:00pm
Downtown Rehoboth Beach
The Rehoboth Beach Chocolate Festival hosted by the Harry K Foundation will now become The First Annual Harry K Foundation Chocolate Crawl! Over 20 restaurants and retailers will offer candy, baked goods, beverages, and other delights before participants vote for their favorite. Cost is $25 for adults, $10 for ages 10 & under. For Tickets, go to: https://bit.ly/3Gfxqos
CAMP Rehoboth Community Center
Women's Fest 2023
Thursday, April 27 to Sunday, April 30
9:00am–7:00pm
37 Baltimore Avenue
Save the date and book a room (if needed) because the MidAtlantic’s largest event specifically for women is returning to Rehoboth Beach April 27–30. Now in its 22nd year, CAMP Rehoboth’s Women’s FEST is known as the event where women can meet old friends and new, dance, laugh, learn, compete, and celebrate. CAMP Rehoboth is an organization that supports the health of the local community and the fair and equitable treatment of everyone, no matter what their sexual orientation or gender identity is.
Women’s FEST offers activities throughout the April 27–30 period. Starting with the traditional kick-off party on Thursday night, Women’s FEST will run through the weekend and will feature entertainers, dances, sports events, an expo, an auction, health information and screenings, and other activities. Plans are still in the works, with details to be unveiled soon, but look for a jam-packed weekend of women-oriented activities. The FEST initials say it all: Fun, Entertainment, Spring, Tradition.
For information go to: https://www.camprehoboth.com/womensfest
Rehoboth Beach Main Street and Purple Parrot Grill
2023 Rehoboth Beach Gumbo Crawl
Saturday, April 29, 1:00pm to 4:00pm
Various Downtown Restaurants
Rain or shine. The Purple Parrot Grill will again partner with Rehoboth Beach Main Street to host the event. Tickets are available for sale at the RBMS Office, 509 Rehoboth Avenue. See article above. For additional information, go to https://www.facebook.com/Rehobothgumbocrawl special thanks to our supply sponsor Holt Paper & Chemical.
Pizza & Paperbacks
Wednesday, April 5, 4:30pm–5:30pm
226 Rehoboth Avenue
Calling all teens! Come to the Rehoboth Beach Library for Pizza and Paperbacks, a fun event where you can eat pizza, make friends, and talk about the books you've been reading!
The event is free for teens 12-18 to discuss books they have been reading. Pizza and drinks provided. Go to delawarelibraries.libcal.com/event/10044589.
Recurring & Weekly Events
· Start a Book Club at the Rehoboth Beach Public Library!
· Creative Movement Sunday Yoga: Every Sunday, 11:00 a.m., free of charge.
· Basic Computer Skills Help Desk: Third Tuesday of every month, 2:00pm to 4:00pm.
· Rehoboth Beach Writers Guild Free Writes: An informal gathering of writers of ALL skill levels! Meets Every Monday and Saturday at 9:00am.
Link for April Events at the Library: https://rehoboth.lib.de.us/
Editor’s Note
Thank you to our writers, and thanks to our RBMS members and other newsletter subscribers for your support of RBMS. If you have any questions or comments, please contact Peter Pizzolongo, Newsletter Editor, at PeterRBMS@gmail.com.
