The 4th of July 2023
WOW!! It's hard to believe that July is here. And with its arrival America will celebrate the largest holiday of the summer season on its 247th birthday, Tuesday July 4th, 2023. It was on this day in July, in 1776, that the Continental Congress met in Philadelphia and declared that the 13 colonies were no longer subjects of and subordinate to King George III, who was then the monarch of Great Britain. As one of the original 13 colonies, Delaware was represented as we adopted our Declaration of Independence—and we have celebrated every birthday since then.
Fast forward to July 4, 2023, and the United States of America will celebrate its birthday on a large scale across the country in all 50 states and the District of Columbia with all sorts of events. Here in Rehoboth Beach, it is the beginning of the high season as thousands of visitors will visit our city to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf, along with concerts, family reunions, picnics, and a fireworks extravaganza that will once again be visible from the boardwalk as well as across the city. While here, the visitors—and residents—will visit our restaurants and shops and just enjoy the myriad of things to do while at the beach. All of Rehoboth In Bloom's planters have been beautifully planted and ready for all to enjoy, while our visitors & residents peruse all of the storefronts decked out in their red, white, and blue splendor.
In this month's Newsletter, Rehoboth Beach Main Street has selected an assortment of our business members to highlight for you to visit while you are out and about this month. You can read more about each one of the establishments later in this newsletter. If it’s cycling that has your interest, be sure to stop in at Rehoboth Cycle Sports, 174 Rehoboth Avenue, for all your biking needs. If you are just out strolling, drop in at Gallery 50, 50A Wilmington Avenue, to view their award-winning pieces. The Lilypad Children's Boutique at 149 Rehoboth Avenue is just the place for stylish clothes for boys and girls. If it’s food and entertainment you are seeking, the Rehoboth Ale House at 15 Wilmington Avenue has a large craft beer, cocktail, and wine list to go with their chef-inspired food and live music. And for something cool and refreshing, stop by The Ice Cream Store at 6 Rehoboth Avenue and select from over a hundred flavors.
The members of Rehoboth Beach Main Street wish everyone a Happy 4th of July 2023!
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 Atlantique Gifts & More for becoming an RBMS member!
RBMS thanks Rehoboth Beach Running Company for renewing at the Green Partner level!
RBMS thanks these businesses for renewing as RBMS members!
For information about levels and benefits of RBMS membership, go to Join | Rehoboth Beach Main Street (downtownrb.com)
Showcasing Rehoboth Beach Businesses
The Ice Cream Store
Jeff Balk
The Ice Cream Store, at 6 Rehoboth Avenue by the Boardwalk, is in a league of its own. Open since 1970, they serve some amazing homemade ice cream with a choice of over 100 hand-dipped flavors. Owner Chip Hearn comes up with many original new flavors that you can sample before you buy, whether it be bacon maple crunch, the best cake ever, booger, or death by peanut butter: You will not be disappointed. I will admit, though, that I have never tried the booger flavor. Keep in mind that these flavors may not all be available on the day that you visit, but Chip has made over 50 original flavors over the years.
Sure, if you are more the traditional vanilla, chocolate, or maybe strawberry kind of person, the Ice Cream Store has brought in ice cream from Turkey Hill, HP Food, and Hershey Creamery. Try yours in a freshly baked and rolled waffle cone.
Almost 200 flavors are laid to rest in their graveyard and can possibly be resurrected by contacting them through The Ice Cream Store’s website RehobothBeachIceCream.com.
Maybe it’s a milk shake that you crave, follow them on Facebook or Instagram to find out when the next Milkshake Monday will be, where you can save $1 on your favorite shake. They even hand out free glow sticks sometimes through their social media pages!
If you thought that Taco Bowl Tuesdays were only at a Mexican Restaurant, think again! That’s another one of The Ice Cream Store’s social media specials for their followers on certain Tuesdays. And, the waffle bowl is loaded with ice cream and toppings. Speaking of loaded, how about a flight of ice cream? I’ve enjoyed six scoops in a bowl before. Yes, I shared.
The Ice Cream Store also serves fresh fruit smoothies, Italian ice, and sundaes. I can’t wait for Delaware’s peach season and The Ice Cream Store’s homemade Delaware peach ice cream with lots of peaches added along with nectar puree. It’s one of their best sellers.
I need to stop typing so I can go get an ice cream…
You can contact The Ice Cream Store via their website or by phone, 302-227-4609.
Gallery 50
Peter Beck
When I moved to Rehoboth Beach in March 2020 (not the best timing for a major lifestyle change!), I had a print of a painting by Marc Chagall that was hung in my parents' house for most of my childhood. I inherited the print when my folks did the New York thing and retired to Florida, but the discolored, faded mat had rather unpleasant-appearing water stains. As well, the glass a small crack appeared on the glass in one corner. The print desperately needed some TLC.
I did a quick Google search and found some stellar reviews of Gallery 50, located right downtown at 50-A Wilmington Avenue. I donned my mask and drove to the shop, where I received a friendly greeting from the owner, Ed McGan, who owns the shop along with his wife, Dale.
Ed examined my print and wondered if it was an original Chagall (I wish!); then he helped me to select the perfect mat for the print. Within a few days, I was able to pick up the renovated print, with the mat, some new glass and a cleaned up 1960s frame, and proudly hung it on the wall in my new home!
Ever since then, Gallery 50 has been my go-to shop for any framing needs! I’ve brought several varied pieces there for framing. What is really special is that even though lots of people are in and out of the shop, Ed always remembers me each time I need work done.
Gallery 50 has been a mainstay in Rehoboth since April 2007. The shop offers outstanding professional framing services. Customers can choose from an extensive choice of frames and mats.
In addition, the Gallery regularly offers exciting exhibitions of contemporary artwork from area artists. Currently Pat Whitehead is the artist whose work is on display.
The exhibitions change about every three weeks during the summer season, so feel free to stop in any time to enjoy the art! The shop is closed on Wednesdays, but is open on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 10:00am–5:00pm, Friday and Saturday from 10:00am–6:00pm, and Sunday from 11:00am–4:00pm.
Additionally, you can learn about local artists who have their work displayed at Gallery 50 by going to the shop’s website and clicking on the links to view the work of these artists. Check out their website at https://www.gallery50art.com/. Phone: 302-227-2050.
Rehoboth Cycle Sports
Peter Beck
When I went to my garage a few weeks back to ride my bike for the first time this season, I discovered that the visor was missing from my bike helmet! The visor is a snap-on feature; without it, I assumed that the helmet would not provide me with maximum protection in case of a nasty fall.
I got on my bike wearing the helmet with the missing visor and took it down to Rehoboth Cycle Sports at 174 Rehoboth Avenue. I didn’t know if I could simply buy a replacement visor, or if I had to buy a new helmet, but I knew that I would receive expert advice at the shop.
Owner Katie Baker greeted me cheerfully and explained that the visor is NOT a safety requirement; its purpose is to help block the sun out of the eyes of the bicyclist. Whew! No new helmet needed! Then she went online, found the company that manufactured my helmet, and discovered that a replacement visor is only five bucks! I ordered two of them in case the new visor ends up lost. How’s that for excellent customer service?
Rehoboth Cycle Sports opened in 2019 and is a locally owned, female-run shop. They sell a large variety of bikes of all kinds, from electric bikes to the ever-popular Trex and Townie bikes. Additionally, the shop offers wheels, assorted parts, cycling clothing, and bike accessories. Rehoboth Cycle Sports also provides bike repair services as well as bike rentals for visitors to Rehoboth.
Ski enthusiasts, take note! The shop sells ski equipment such as goggles and helmets, and they’re planning to expand their choices this winter! There is no other place locally to buy ski equipment, so this is an excellent option for area ski bums.
Are you planning to visit Rehoboth or are you a resident coming to town? You can reserve a bike rental online! This ensures that you will be able to get a bike when you need it and makes the rental process very convenient!
You’ll find lots of valuable information about Rehoboth Cycle Sports at their website: https://www.rehobothcyclesports.com/. Phone: 302-227-7600.
Lots Of Fun (And Beer) at Rehoboth Ale House
George Yaksic
Rehoboth Ale House opened its doors at 15 Wilmington Avenue on May 20, 2016, with a fresh new look, a new hand-painted sign, and a fresh approach to food and ale. When restaurateurs Adam Newman and Kyle McLaughlin took ownership, Newman said “We were looking to try something new.” Since then, the beach block of Wilmington Avenue has never been quite the same. “We came into this and saw a great opportunity,” McLaughlin said. “The location is great. We’re excited.”
Rehoboth Ale House originally opened in 2009, taking over for the former Ram’s Head Tavern, and went through a series of owners while retaining the name. In addition to upscale remodeling projects, the “new” Rehoboth Ale House had a large selection and variety of craft beers and cocktails. Newman described the new vision for Rehoboth Ale House as “American, high-quality gastro-bar food. Something easy, but something more than just bar food.” McLaughlin and Newman decided to create an upscale-inspired ale house to appeal to locals and tourists as well. Their wide range of cocktails, good wine, and craft beers are part of the new long-term vision for the restaurant.
Besides being a member of Rehoboth Beach Main Street, Newman is a frequent contributor to local causes. In the past, the Ale House has been associated with Run4Vets, the Margarita and Gumbo Crawls, and hosting charitable and non-profit meetings at the restaurants. During the COVID pandemic, Newman was instrumental in collaborating with other downtown restaurants for outdoor dining spaces and open-air entertainment to attract customers.
Owner Adam Newman was tired of looking at the drab, featureless wall that faces his parking lot and can easily be seen from Wilmington Avenue. He hired local artist Holly Fields-Scott to create a new mural on the parking lot wall. “We wanted to show that we’re not scared of COVID. “We’re not going anywhere,” Newman said. “It shows that even during these times we’re still coming up with some ideas and things to do to keep us all moving and smiling under our masks.”
Like the Kraken mural at Dogfish Head Brewing and Eats (another Fields-Scott creation, the new mural is interactive with a 3D quality. When standing in front of it, it looks like a viewer can see through the letters A-L-E. A staff with musical notes weaving in and out of the letters, and a bottle with Rehoboth Ale House’s address appears to sit behind the wall, seen only through the letters. “People can pose with it,” she said. “It looks like openings in the wall. You can pretend you’re standing inside the letters. Just have fun with it.”
After five years downtown, Rehoboth Ale House owner Adam Newman expanded to a Coastal Highway location on the “Forgotten Mile at 20859 Coastal Highway north of Dewey Beach, the long-time location of the Captain’s Table restaurant and more recently the Forgotten Mile Ale House.
For more information on Rehoboth Ale House (Downtown), 15 Rehoboth Avenue: rehobothalehouse.com, call 302-278-7433 or email rehobothalehouse15@gmail.com.
The Lilypad Children’s Boutique: A Modern Boutique for Fashion Forward Children
Colleen Evans
While shopping for yourself is always fun, there's something about buying children’s clothes and gifts for the special little people in your life. It seems to take retail therapy to the next level.
Kimberly Carey is the owner and buyer extraordinaire for The Lilypad Children’s Boutique, located at 149 Rehoboth Avenue, in Villages by the Sea. Kimberly aims to provide that retail therapy with a wonderful shopping experience for parents, grandparents, and kid-loving friends with her highly fashionable clothes, toys, and accessories, creatively designed and carefully chosen. Kimberly’s hands-on experience with thousands of clients has made her an expert in youth retail. She has done her research to ensure the children’s lines are thoughtfully placed throughout the boutique.
Lilypad launched in May 2018 with one simple goal in mind: To offer a finely curated collection of baby and children’s clothing and accessories sure to please parents and children alike.
Carrying the best and most sought-after brands, Lilypad sells clothing apparel, accessories, and toys for both boys and girls. “We carry the latest collection of our favorite brands from newborn up to the largest size the brand offers” says Kimberly. “Our clients appreciate that we carry larger children’s sizes, which are harder to find in boutique-style brands.”
With a pool of experienced and knowledgeable staff on her team, Kimberly’s top objective is to provide great, individualized customer service to all the boutique’s clients. She also truly enjoys being a part of her clients’ life milestones, such as births, birthdays, and other happy occasions.
“I encourage customers to text or email us if they find something online and have questions before making a purchase” says Kimberly. “We’ll pull the item and have it ready for our client to see in person or for their child to try on.”
Lilypad is also very active on Facebook and Instagram, with a large client following. “We post stories daily and love when our customers tag us in photos of children wearing outfits purchased at the boutique.”
If you are looking for a local children’s boutique experience, something unique and much different than what the large luxury retailers are offering, visit Lilypad Children’s Boutique or check out their website.
If only they came in adult sizes too...
Lilypad Children’s Boutique, at 149 Rehoboth Avenue in Villages By The Sea. Phone: 302-227-4464.
News from RBMS Members
Ribboncutting: Beaches—The Green Truck Shop
RBMS welcomes new member Beaches—The Green Truck Shop. We conducted a ribboncutting on June 7. Pictured: Peter Pizzolongo, RBMS Board; Mayor Stan Mills; Dick Byrne, RBMS Board President; Beaches—The Green Truck Shop owners Kevin and Dana Peccon; Jen Carroll and Terry Kistler, RBMS Board; and Dan Slagle, RBMS Executive Director.
CAMP Rehoboth Community Feedback Survey
Make Your Voice Heard
Take this 5-minute survey to help CAMP Rehoboth develop its next strategic plan that will serve as its roadmap for the next three to five years. Link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2023CAMPsurvey_mailchimp.
CAMP Rehoboth Fundraiser
Peter Beck
In the waning days of spring, I suddenly realized I only had a few days to get some new duds to wear at the 3rd Annual Summer Solstice Fundraiser for CAMP Rehoboth on June 17 in the Lodge at Truitt Homestead. As in the past, the event was a White Party, but this year with a luau theme.
Luckily, all of the outlet malls are a stone’s throw from my house, so it was easy to zip over to the JCrew shop to get a white madras shirt and a new pair of bright white shorts, and to buy a pair of white topsiders at the Sperry store. I was somewhat concerned about wearing all white and spilling food and drink all over my new clothes, I figured “what the hell” and hoped for the best.
I arrived at the Lodge right on time and then the fun began! The terrace of the Lodge looked lovely with a pleasant view of the pond, beautiful decorations and about 200 people decked out in all sorts of creative variations of white! A terrific band entertaining us throughout the evening with cheerful Hawaiian themed music and a lot of dancing.
A very courageous fire eater put on a show for us that was quite exciting and enjoyable. Hula girls danced for the crowd, and after the performance several brave volunteers jumped up and learned to do the hula! There was a silent auction featuring super gifts from area merchants, as well as a ring toss game; if you won, you got a very generous gift certificate to a local business.
The evening featured tons of tasty hors d'oeuvres and wonderful albeit rather strong cocktails! I personally don’t enjoy a “pig roast,” but it appeared that many other guests didn’t mind! Conversation and fun filled the terrace as the evening wore on.
CAMP Rehoboth is an organization that “seeks to promote community well-being on all levels; to foster the development of community groups; to develop community space; to promote human and civil rights; to work against prejudice and discrimination; to lessen tensions among the community at large; and, to help foster the economic growth of the area.” CAMP Rehoboth works towards these ends through activities such as the Arts & Cultural Programs, Education & Advocacy, Health & Wellness, & Community Building. Please check out their website to learn more about this truly amazing organization: https://www.camprehoboth.com/.
As the evening came to an end, I am pleased to report that I did NOT spill anything on my new white outfit. Even the shoes were spared! I can look forward to next year’s event without having to buy new duds!
News from Rehoboth Beach Main Street
RBMS / Rehoboth Beach Museum Dolphin Gets a Makeover
How great is this dolphin? Little Bean Designs’ Loretta Ellingsworth just finished this beautiful piece installed by the Rehoboth Beach Museum and the Rehoboth Beach Main Street office. Stop by and take a selfie and tag us in your posts!
Looking for something to do on a July 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 Cottage and Town Awards, Rehoboth in Bloom activities, and Margarita Crawl! A lot happening this Summer!
RBMS Executive Director Participates in Serving Meals to J-1 Students
Dan Slagle, RBMS Executive Director, has begun volunteering as a server for the program that provides meals to Rehoboth Beach’s J-1 students. Meals are provided at Epworth United Methodist Church, the Lutheran Church of Our Savior, and soon, at St. Edmond Roman Catholic Church.
Epworth Church has seen a large surge in J-1 students coming to their mobile pantry for free food products. The pantry open three days a week with varying hours has enabled many students to have nutritious fruits, vegetables, and proteins necessary to stay healthy during their stay in the Rehoboth area.
The free dinners provided by Epworth and the Lutheran Church of Our Savior on Bay Vista will soon be joined by St. Edmond. Business owners employing J-1 students are urged to let their students know of the availability of these meals:
· Epworth Church, 19285 Holland Glade Road, offers free student dinners on Tuesdays until September 5 from 5:30–7:00pm. Also, meals are provided weekly on Sundays in an open-to-the-public soup kitchen, 1:00–3:00pm.
· At the Lutheran Church of Our Savior, 20276 Bay Vista Road, meals are provided on Wednesdays, 5:30–7:00pm.
· At St. Edmond, 409 King Charles Avenue, meals are provided on Thursdays, July 6–August 31, 5:00–7:30pm.
Demand for Bicycles
There is a huge demand for bikes for J-1 students. DelDot has distributed all their bikes. They currently are putting students on a waiting list should a bike become available.
Supporting RBMS Members’ Hiring Opportunities
RBMS is continuing to include an Opportunities Page on the RBMS website that advertises RBMS member business job openings. We currently have 10 businesses with We’re Hiring announcements! We are promoting this Opportunities campaign to potential job applicants through several vehicles: the RBMS website and social media pages, as well as announcements on Radio Rehoboth and local television stations’ websites.
We plan to post job opportunities on our Opportunities Page through August, unless we are otherwise notified in writing by the Rehoboth Beach business to remove their job opening announcement prior to August 31.
We are asking any downtown Rehoboth business with a position(s) available to email us (dan@downtownrb.com) a 2- to 3-sentence job description and include all contact information, i.e., owner/managers name, email address, and phone number; a link to the business’ website is optional. We would appreciate receipt of a high-quality logo you would like us to use with your position(s) available announcement, as well.
We thank the Rehoboth Beach business community for working with us on this effort! If you have any questions, please contact Dan Slagle at 302-227-2772.
News from Rehoboth in Bloom
Have you seen Rehoboth in Bloom's newest garden by the entrance to Rehoboth Avenue? This is the organization’s biggest project to date. Under the leadership of Bob Arner, volunteers Sheryl Jeske, Dave and Roberta Rizzo, Paula Evans, and Cynthia and Tom Wise, the garden is exploding in color! Keep checking it out, with 3 trees, about 50 perennials, and over 125 annuals, it will only continue to be more and more spectacular.
Volunteer Recognition: Peter Beck
Jerry Filbin
Our volunteer shout-out for July is for Peter Beck! Peter started volunteering for Rehoboth Beach Main Street after a chance conversation with his neighbor, our past-president, Greer Maneval! Peter had moved to Rehoboth from the DC area in 2020—during COVID—and was still teaching remotely at the Lab School in DC. Like many of us, Peter was feeling COVID-isolation and was looking for something to do to get involved and meet people in the community. Joining our team on the RBMS Communications Committee seemed like a great first leap for Peter, and he brought those remarkable skills that teaching English and writing in middle schools can give you to the production of our RBMS monthly Newsletter.
Peter had taught for 30 years in the Baltimore County System and then 13 years at The Lab School. He also served for 3 years as a school librarian and, in the process, developed and implemented a plan to transform the library holdings into a digital collection. Peter is an accomplished writer and editor and is a regular feature writer in the Newsletter. And, those skills are also used at the Truitt Homestead community where he assists in layout and editing for the association’s newsletter. Peter has also been a volunteer for the RBMS Fashion Show and is part of this year’s team currently working on the next show, which will be held in the Spring of 2024. Peter said that working the gift bag counter at the 2022 Show was a great assignment because he could talk to people and join in the fun when they opened their bags! He’s all set for his next big assignment for RBMS, whatever that may be.
Thank you, Peter for all you do and for all you bring to Rehoboth Beach Main Street and our community.
Cottage and Town Awards Competition Scheduled
Nominations are now being accepted—the deadline for entries is August 11, 5:00pm. All construction must have been completed between January 1, 2022, and August 1, 2023.
The award categories are:
1. Best new construction
2. Best renovation/reconstruction
3. Best landscape design
4. Best commercial construction
Sponsors for the Cottage and Town Awards are RBMS Organization Committee Chair Rick Perry and Board Member Sandra Skidmore. Thank you, Rick and Sandra!
Winner announcements will be posted on the RBMS Website on August 21 and in the Cape Gazette on August 24. The Bellmoor Inn and Spa has once again offered to host the Award ceremony, which will take place on September 17.
Visit 2023 Cottage & Town Awards | Rehoboth Beach | Rehoboth Beach Main Street (downtownrb.com) for the application form and details.
2023 Rehoboth Beach Main Street’s Margarita Crawl
The 2023 RBMS Margarita Crawl was held on June 3, sponsored by Dano’s Dangerous Tequila. In addition to Dano’s tequila margaritas, participating restaurants were also asked to prepare Mock Margaritas for Crawl-goers who would prefer a non-alcoholic version.
An award ceremony was held at the Rehoboth Ale House on June 7. Awardees were:
· Best Margarita: Blue Moon
· Best Mocktail: Chesapeake and Maine
· Most Creative Margarita and 2nd Place for Best Margarita: Somewhere Rehoboth
· 3rd Place, Best Margarita: Mariachi Restaurant
Congratulations to the winners!
Winner of Best Margarita Blue Moon, RBMS President Dick Byrne, Blue Moon Owners Randy Haney and Tim Ragan, RBMS board member Terry Kistler, and Wayne Brzoska From Dano’s
Winner of Most Creative Margarita and 2nd Place for Best Margarita Somewhere Rehoboth, L-R Dick Byrne, Terry Kistler, Owners Aileen Hearn and Kyle Ten Eyck, Neli Stoyanova server & bartender, Wayne Brzoska
3rd Place, Best Margarita: Dick Byrne, Owner Yolanda Pineda, Terry Kistler, Wayne Brzoska
Winner of Best Mocktail Chesapeake and Maine, Lanae Drew & Terry Kistler
DelDOT Partners with Sussex Cyclists for Summer Safety Checks
Photo by: Aaron Mushrush
Groups offer riders maintenance checks, helmets, lights, and free air
The Delaware Department of Transportation and the nonprofit Sussex Cyclists are partnering this summer to help bikers in the area remain safe on their travels. At safety checkpoints, they offer tune-up maintenance, helmets, lights, maps, and free air.
Future checkpoints will be held at the following locations:
· Church Street and Canal Crossing Road, 4:00 to 7:00pm, Wednesdays, July 12, August 9, August 16
· Nike Outlet and Royal Farms, 4:00 to 7:00pm, Thursdays, July 6, July 20
· Epworth United Methodist Church, 5:00 to 7:00pm, Tuesdays, July 18, July 25.
More information, including county bike maps, can be found at Delaware Bike Council - Delaware Department of Transportation (deldot.gov) To learn more about Sussex Cyclists, go to Sussex Cyclists - Home.
Backing Small Businesses Grant Program
Main Street America is pleased to announce the 2023 recipients for the Backing Small Businesses grant program, presented by American Express, to provide financial support to small business owners to address critical needs and make a positive impact in their local communities. Grants of $5,000 have been awarded to 350 U.S. small business owners.
In 2021, American Express and Main Street America created the Backing Small Businesses grant program to support U.S. small business owners as they recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic and looked to grow their businesses. In its first year, the program provided $1.65 million in grants to 330 small business owners across the country.
Now in its second year, the program increased the number of grants awarded to 350 and total funding to more than $2.3 million to further support small business owners. In partnership with Bunker Labs, CARE, Center for Community Progress, Disability:IN, HIAS, Hispanic Federation, National ACE (National Asian/Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce & Entrepreneurship), NGLCC (National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce), and Small Business Majority, grantees were selected based on feasibility of project implementation; how the grant would help improve the viability of the business; and the extent to which the grant will help address an acute business need or help a business owner implement innovative solutions to build economic vitality and foster a thriving community.
This program marks the latest effort in American Express’ “Backing Small” initiative to provide financial support and resources to U.S. small business owners. Other Backing Small programs include the Coalition to Back Black Businesses and Backing Historic Small Restaurants. Backing Small complements American Express’ Shop Small, a global year-round movement to spotlight small, independent businesses.
To learn more about the Backing Small Businesses grant program and hear from previous grantees, click here.
City Update
City Adopts Revised Tree Code
The Rehoboth Beach Board of Commissioners adopted a revised tree code on Friday, June 16, that is easier to understand and navigate, more flexible, and focuses on heritage tree preservation and tree quality over quantity. The revised code, which has been a focus of the Board of Commissioners over the past two years, is the culmination of multiple efforts undertaken over the past 11 years.
“Rehoboth Beach is very proud of its abundant tree canopy, which helps to make the city distinctive among coastal communities,” says Arborist Liz Lingo. “The newly adopted code serves not only trees well but also our residents, simplifying, clarifying, and providing more flexibility to the rules related to removal and replacement of trees on private property.”
Some of the changes to the code include:
Reducing the size of trees to be planted from 12’ tall and 3” in diameter to 8’ tall and 2” in diameter.
Simplifying mitigation for removed trees, requiring tree-for-tree replacement.
Expanding the list of city-approved tree species that may be replanted.
Providing greater measures for tree protection during construction, especially of heritage trees.
Setting a fee to cover real costs of planting and maintaining a tree on city property for two years.
Independence Day Fireworks in Rehoboth Beach
The City of Rehoboth Beach is set to put the “ooh” and “ahh” into the July 4th Independence Day holiday weekend with a fireworks display to launch around 9:30pm Sunday, July 2nd. The display, which will launch from the beach between Philadelphia and Hickman Streets, will be visible along Rehoboth’s mile-plus beach and boardwalk.
The fireworks display will be sandwiched by a Funsters concert at the bandstand. A 10-piece band made up of lifelong friends, The Funsters will take the stage at 8 pm and again after the fireworks display. The band boasts a vast song list that covers the likes of Frank Sinatra to the Rolling Stones and the Beatles to Al Green.
Traffic Control and Road Closures
Road closures will be implemented to facilitate access and safety. The bandstand area will be closed to vehicular traffic from 6:00pm tomidnight. Beginning at 6 pm, only bus traffic and residents will be permitted on Henlopen and Surf Avenues. Vehicles will not be able to cross Rehoboth Avenue at the circle beginning at 7 pm.
Rehoboth Avenue eastbound and Church Street from State Route 1 will be closed to vehicular traffic beginning at 8:30 pm. At that point, all vehicles entering Rehoboth Beach will have to do so via State Road to Bayard Avenue.
Residents on Henlopen Avenue, in Henlopen Acres, and North Shores must access their residences via Second Street beginning at 8:30 pm.
To exit Rehoboth after the fireworks, vehicles north of Rehoboth Avenue will be directed to exit via Rehoboth and Columbia Avenues. Vehicles on the south side of Rehoboth Avenue will use Bayard Avenue to State Route 1 southbound only or Hickman or Munson Streets to State Road to Route 1 north- and southbound.
Alternatives for Getting to the Fireworks
Sit back and relax and leave the driving to someone else. The city strongly encourages visitors to utilize the DART Park & Ride Service to travel into downtown. Visit the DART website or call 302-226-2001 for more information. In addition, the Jolly Trolley will operate its Rehoboth Beach and Dewey Beach shuttle services on a revised schedule. For more route information, visit jollytrolley.com or call 302-644-0400.
Parking
The City of Rehoboth Beach provides approximately 2,200 metered parking spaces and additional permit-required spaces throughout town. Metered parking is in effect from 10:00am–10:00pm. Parking permits are enforced from 10:00am–5:00pm; after that, permitted spaces are open for general use. Fireworks parking will be available for $5 at the Deauville Beach lot beginning at 5:00pm.
Save the Date
Author Events at Browseabout Books
133 Rehoboth Avenue
In-Store Book Signing
The Beach at Summerly by Beatriz Williams
July 2, 1:00–3:00pm
In-Store Book Signing
What Humming-Fish Wish by Michelle Meadows
July 1, 2:00–4:00pm
In-Store Signing Just Add Magic by Cindy Callahan July 6, 10:00am–12:00pm
Conversation with Lisa Scottoline, author of Loyalty
Online Event
July 18, 5:00–6:00pm
Boardwalk Stroll
Tuesdays and Thursdays, July 4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25, and 27 at 8:30am, end of Rehoboth Avenue
Hosted by Delaware Coastal Prime Timers, social group for single & coupled gay men. Optional breakfast after walk. For more information contact coastalprimetimers@gmail.com.
Clear Space Theatre
Saturday Morning Children’s Theatre
July 8—August 26, Saturdays, 11am
A Day at the Beach with Pooh: July 8 and July 22 at 11am
The Wizard of Oz: July 15 and 29
Remember Saturday morning cartoons? Go back to a time when we weren’t glued to cell phones and modern technology, but instead ran to see what fate befell our favorite characters! With that in mind, Clear Space has developed a summer Children’s Theatre Series performed by kids FOR kids. Clear Space brings you 30-minute versions of the beloved classics written by Clare Hughes. Only $5 per person.
Clear Space Theatre 2023 Summer Season
Clear Space presents Kinky Boots
July 1, 3, 4, 12, 13, 21, 22, 24, and 25 at 7:30pm
Kinky Boots is the big-hearted musical extravaganza that won six Tonys including Best Musical, the Grammy for Best Musical Theatre album, and London’s Olivier Award for Best Musical. Kinky Boots features a joyous, Tony-winning score by pop icon Cyndi Lauper, and a hilarious, uplifting book by four-time Tony winner, Harvey Fierstein. Billy Porter won a Best Actor Tony Award for his portrayal of Lola.
Charlie Price has reluctantly inherited his father's shoe factory, which is on the verge of bankruptcy. Trying to live up to his father's legacy and save his family business, Charlie finds inspiration in the form of Lola, a fabulous entertainer in need of some sturdy stilettos. As they work to turn the factory around, this unlikely pair find that they have more in common than they realized...and discover that when you change your mind, you can change your whole world.
Clear Space presents Jesus Christ Superstar
July 7, 8, 10, 11, 19, 20, 28, 29, and 31 at 7:30pm
What’s the buzz? The first musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice to be produced for the professional stage, Jesus Christ Superstar has wowed audiences for over 40 years. A timeless work, the rock opera is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary and universally known series of events but seen, unusually, through the eyes of Judas Iscariot. Loosely based on the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, Superstar follows the last week of Jesus Christ’s life. The story, told entirely through song, explores the personal relationships and struggles between Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, his disciples, his followers, and the Roman Empire. The iconic 1970s rock score contains such well-known numbers as “Superstar,” “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” and “Gethsemane.”
Clear Space presents The Spongebob Musical
July 5, 6, 14, 15, 17, 18, 26 and 27 at 7:30pm
The stakes are higher than ever in this dynamic stage musical, as SpongeBob and all of Bikini Bottom face the total annihilation of their undersea world. Chaos erupts. Lives hang in the balance. And just when all hope seems lost, a most unexpected hero rises up and takes center stage. The power of optimism really can save the world!
The SpongeBob Musical is based on the beloved animated series created by Stephen Hillenburg and features a book by Kyle Jarrow, with original songs by Yolanda Adams, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith, Sara Bareilles, Jonathan Coulton, Alexander Ebert of Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, The Flaming Lips, Lady A, Cyndi Lauper, John Legend, Panic! At the Disco, Plain White T’s, They Might Be Giants and T.I., and songs by David Bowie, Tom Kenny, and Andy Paley. Additional lyrics are by Jonathan Coulton, with additional music by Tom Kitt. The musical production was conceived by Tina Landau.
Clear Space presents Christopher Decker’s JUST THE TIP: A Gay Cabaret
July 1, 14, 15, 21, and 22 at 10:00pm
You've seen him on stage at Clear Space, but you haven't seen him like this! Watch as Christopher Decker takes you on a big, GAY, hilarious journey through his life, featuring songs from artists including Cher, Liza Minnelli, Judy Garland, Celine Dion, Britney Spears, and Elton John to name a few! Nothing is off limits as he recalls growing up Catholic, first loves, Grindr, 8 inch...... heels—and that's just the tip of it! Come for a fabulous night of laughs, music, and costume changes.
*Mature content that may not be suitable for all ages*
Buy tickets for all performances at www.clearspacetheatre.org
Rehoboth Beach Library—Farmer's Market Storytime
Tuesday, July 4, 11, 18, and 25 at 10:00am
Grove Park Small Pavilion
Summer is here and the Library is back at Grove Park for Storytime at 10:00am! Gather in the small pavilion during the Farmer's Market to read a few books, chat, play, and make some new friends! This Storytime is open to all ages and does not require any registration.
All-You-Can-Eat Pancakes & Sausage Breakfast at Cape Henlopen Senior Center
There will be no Pancakes and Sausage Breakfast in the months of July, August, and September. The Breakfasts will resume in October.
Jackpot Bingo at Cape Henlopen Senior Center
There will be no Jackpot Bingo in the months of July and August. Jackpot Bingo will resume in September.
Rehoboth Beach Library 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.
· Rehoboth Beach Writers Guild Free Writes: An informal gathering of writers of ALL skill levels! Meets Every Monday at 8:00am.
· Friday Flicks: Enjoy a free screening of a recently released film every Friday afternoon, starting at 1:00. To find out what movie we're showing on a given week, please call the library at 302-227-8044.
Link for all July Events at the Library: https://rehoboth.lib.de.us/
Rehoboth Beach Bandstand Summer Concert Series
All performances begin at 8:00pm, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (Weather Dependent)
From Memorial Day to Labor Day, free entertainment by over forty bands from every musical genre and era at the open-air bandstand just steps from the beach and boardwalk.
Link for July events at the Bandstand: www.REHOBOTHBANDSTAND.com
Summer Recreation Activities Sponsored by The City of Rehoboth Beach
The City of Rehoboth Beach offers recreational programming that brings creativity, activity, camaraderie, and fun to the summer months for residents and visitors of all ages. For more information about city parks and playgrounds, nearby state parks, bicycling routes, and so much more.
Link to Rehoboth Beach Parks and Recreation Department: www.cityofrehoboth.com/parks-and-recreation/summer-recreation-activities
On Thursdays, special programming for all ages will be offered.
· A magic show with Jack & Trixie is scheduled for 9:00am July 6 at Grove Park.
· Face Painting in the Park will take place 9:00–10:00am July 13 and 27 at Grove Park.
· Storytime Yoga with local author Hiba Stancofski is scheduled for 9:00am July 20.
· In addition, the city has set up two volleyball courts on the beach at Hickman Street. The courts are available free of charge throughout the season on a first-come, first-served basis. Tennis and pickleball courts are available for rent on the north end of the beach near Deauville. Court time may be reserved and paid for at https://www.mindbodyonline.com/explore/locations/dave-marshall-tennis-and-fitness Look for "Rehoboth Court Time" under Pricing and Packages.
Grove Park Canal Dock
Off Rehoboth Avenue, near the Rehoboth Beach Museum and RBMS Office (509 Rehoboth Avenue)
The Grove Park Canal Dock provides residents and visitors with access to the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal for travel and recreational purposes.
Located behind the Rehoboth Beach Museum, the canal dock is open from sunup to sundown. In addition to launch space for kayaks, the dock provides two boat slips that may be used for loading and unloading passengers and supplies; private boats may be docked for a maximum of 30 minutes. Fishing is permitted only from the designated fishing portion of the dock. Kayaks, watercraft, and other equipment may not be left at the dock overnight.
In the summer season, Cape Water Tours & Taxi at www.capewatertaxi.com offers tours, cruises, and taxi service from the dock.
Editor’s Note
If you have any questions or comments, please contact Peter Pizzolongo, Newsletter Editor, at PeterRBMS@gmail.com.
