Surf, Sand, and Sunshine
Jim Mease
While many attractions lure tourists and residents to our shores few can compare to the natural beauty that surrounds us in the form of surf, sand, and sunshine. As we move into June, we have these three in abundance as our summer season begins. With the Memorial Day Holiday behind us and the 4th of July in front of us, everyone begins to settle into a summertime pattern consisting of increased outdoor activities that include picnics, swimming, boating, and fishing with family and friends.
June was named after the ancient Roman Goddess of marriage and childbirth and remains a popular month for weddings today. Beach weddings here in Rehoboth have become quite popular; however, June is also a month full of celebratory events beginning with Pride, a month-long celebration of the contributions and achievements promoting the dignity, equality, and increased visibility of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) community. On June 5th, World Environment Day is a time to raise environmental awareness, while on June 14 we celebrate Flag Day to honor the day in 1777 the Continental Congress adopted our flag as the official flag of the United States amid the Revolutionary War. Following in quick succession is Father's Day on June 14th, when we celebrate all fathers, grandfathers, and great-grandfathers for their contribution to family unity. On June 19, we celebrate Juneteenth. On this day in 1865, Union General Gordon Granger read the Emancipation Proclamation aloud in Galveston Texas, effectively liberating enslaved people in the state.
Other important June dates include the 20th, known as the summer solstice. It heralds the start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere and is the day with the most daylight hours. June 21 is the month’s full moon known as the Strawberry Moon which marked the ripening of June bearing strawberries ready for gathering by Native American tribes that lived in the northeastern United States.
June is truly a time for celebration and Rehoboth Main Street is proud to highlight several of our member businesses this month. Residents and tourists alike will want to visit Dogfish Head Chesapeake & Maine at 316 Rehoboth Avenue where you will enjoy seafood sourced exclusively from the Chesapeake and Maine regions of the United States. The Aqua Bar & Grille at 57 Baltimore Avenue is always a go-to place during the summer. With its spacious outdoor deck, casual dining, and a full complement of wine, beer, and spirits, you won't want to leave! If you are looking for seasonally driven and locally sourced food and spirits combined with live music, Blackwall Hitch at 52 Rehoboth Avenue is the restaurant you want to try. In the market for designer women's fashion, active wear, or hand-crafted jewelry? Treat yourself to a visit at Grace Boutique at 36 Baltimore Avenue during your stay in Rehoboth Beach.
When visiting any of these member businesses, tell them you read about them here and you can read more about each of these showcased businesses later in this newsletter. Please remember to be mindful of increased bike and pedestrian traffic now that the weather has turned warm. And be sure to check out the new lovely plantings in the earth planters downtown. New planters in front of the Rehoboth Beach Administrative Offices on Rehoboth Ave will increase your enjoyment as you walk around.
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 thanks Second Block Hospitality (Aqua, Bodhi Kitchen, Drift Seafood & Raw Bar, The Pines) and Dos Locos for renewing at the Gold Partner level.
● RBMS thanks Rehoboth Cycle Sports for renewing at the Silver Partner level.
● RBMS thanks these members for renewing at the Bronze Partner Level
o Bernadette’s Beach Boutique
o Penny Lane Lighting
Showcasing Rehoboth Businesses
Chesapeake and Maine
Peter Beck
On a lovely mid-spring evening, my neighbor Maria and I decided it was a perfect night to enjoy some fine dining in town. We’ve been trying to hit all of the places we couldn’t get to during the pandemic, and since a few months back we had a fabulous evening at Dogfish Head Brewing and Eats, we decided to eat at Chesapeake & Maine right next door at 316 Rehoboth Avenue.
Chesapeake & Maine is a lovely brewpub that is part of the DogfishHead Brewing group located in Rehoboth Beach. Established here in Rehoboth in 2016, Chesapeake & Maine offers a quieter ambiance with an aesthetically pleasing interior and exterior, in excellent contrast to their more lively establishment right next door. Throughout the space is the “industrial” look, with metal pipes, exposed venting, and a tin 1890s style ceiling. We also enjoyed the concurrent nautical theme of the restaurant, with porthole windows and chandeliers made from oyster shells. Overall it was a cozy, charming environment to enjoy a meal with a good friend.
The bar is well-stocked with many popular Dogfish head products and a wide choice of other libations. I immediately ordered the Dogfish Head Pineapple Orange Mai Tai, which I love so much that I have several cans of the mai tai in my fridge at home!
Chesapeake & Maine is known for its seafood that is locally sourced from the region.j As well, the menu offers tasty dishes from the New England states and includes a lovely oyster bar for those who are oyster aficionados.
Luckily, Maria and I were there on the last day of the off-season Thursday night specials: dinner for two for forty-five bucks, expertly curated by the chef. We enjoyed tasty stuffed fluke, fresh green beans, roasted potatoes, and a lobster salad. To top it off, dessert was an apple rhubarb betty that was to die for, a perfect final act to a fabulous dining experience. We both thought about ordering a second helping, but decided that our waistlines wouldn’t appreciate that!
Chesapeake and Maine offers musical entertainment on the weekends. Additionally, they host special events such as a dinner party benefiting the Rehoboth Beach Farmers Market.
Current hours are Monday-Saturday from 4:00pm–10:00pm and Sundays from 3:00pm–9:00pm. You can also reach them by phone at (302) 226-3600.
Learn more about Chesapeake and Maine at their website, where you can easily book reservations for a wonderful evening. https://www.dogfish.com/restaurants/chesapeake-maine
Aqua Bar & Grill
Peter Beck
My birthday this year was somewhat of a downer: A few days before the big event, I caught a cold and had to spend my special weekend at home recuperating. Once I was back to normal, I was eager to go out with friends and celebrate, albeit a week late. What better place to go to for a celebration than the Aqua Bar and Grill, located conveniently at 57 Rehoboth Avenue!
Aqua is always an exciting and energetic place, filled with people of every possible shape and size who are out to have a good time and enjoy food and drink on the bustling outdoor patio. The atmosphere is always lively with energizing music and friendly bartenders and waiters. I always forget that the patio is dog-friendly; one day I will remember and bring my pooch with me!
When I arrived, I immediately ordered an orange crush from the energetic young waiter. I’m a big fan of orange crushes, as it provides me with some vitamin C along with the vodka and triple sec. My friends enjoyed their favorite drinks: a Rose Kennedy and a deep eddy lime with tonic.
We mingled a bit and decided to stay for dinner as it was a perfect evening for casual dining. The menu is filled with tons of local favorites and includes appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and entrees. Bravely, I decided to try the fried pickle chips: they tasted much better than I imagined. We also had a huge portion of Aqua nachos to share, along with the soft pretzel sticks. We followed that with burgers along with yummy fries. We ate enough to choke a horse, so we wisely skipped dessert!
After several more rounds of drinks, we took an Uber home as all three of us had over-imbibed. Since it wasn’t the “season” yet and we didn’t have to worry about parking meters, it was easy to get to town the next morning and retrieve the car.
As well as serving great drinks and wonderful casual food, Aqua offers several weekly themes for its fans: Sunday tea dance, Wednesday ladies' night, live musical performances, and even “Taco Tuesday.” Additionally, Aqua frequently sponsors fun special events. Who can forget last summer's Barbie blast and the annual bachelor auction?
Learn more about Aqua’s menu, choices at the bar, and special events by checking out their website, https://www.aquarehoboth.com/.
It appears that another fun summer at Aqua is on the horizon!
Blackwall Hitch
Mark May
Located at 52 Rehoboth Avenue, just steps away from the Rehoboth Bandstand, the words Food, Fun, Spirits stand out boldly above Blackwall Hitch. These words give a taste of what’s to be expected when you step into their beautiful, nautically themed dining room. Taking pride in their Chesapeake roots, Blackwall Hitch in Rehoboth offers the same cuisine as its sister location in the heart of Chesapeake Bay country, Baltimore. Both locations imbue their menus with the flavors of the mid-Atlantic while Rehoboth’s atmosphere blends refinement with beach town relaxation.
Embracing the theme of “Eternal Summer,” Blackwall Hitch delights patrons with a selection of fresh salads, fire-roasted flatbreads, and, of course, a wide selection of seafood. Whether you choose the Faroe Island Salmon or the Trident Broiler, Blackwall doesn’t disappoint when it comes to coastal cuisines. Nor does it forget the true star of any Chesapeake feast, the blue crab. Choose to enjoy their Maryland Crab Cakes, the Jumbo Lump Crab Cake handheld, or their Chesapeake flatbread, and discover how Blackwall honors their local cuisine with flavor and brilliance.
With their all-day menu stunning diners, it’s important to remember that Blackwall also offers Sunday Brunch. Starting at 10:00am, this is a delightful way to begin a leisurely day out with family and friends.
Visit Blackwall Hitch to experience their authentic take on the mid-Atlantic’s finest cuisine and enjoy your own Eternal Summer experience. For more information or to reserve a table visit their website at https://www.blackwallhitchrehoboth.com/ or call (302) 226-0550.
Grace Boutique: High-Quality Clothing and Brands Unique to Coastal Delaware
Colleen Evans
Among the bars, restaurants, art galleries and clothing stores that dot Rehoboth Beach, there’s a high-end women’s boutique that offers brands that Coastal Delaware clients cannot find elsewhere—Grace Boutique—owned and operated by Mary Shapiro. Grace Boutique is located at 36 Baltimore Avenue.
Celebrating over 6 years since opening, Grace Boutique has evolved with its loyal clientele and also continues to showcase emerging lines and quality staples at inviting price points. Unique seasonal clothing—from upscale BOHO type skirts and dresses to jeans and t-shirts, as well as camis and tops, jewelry, and gifts, some made by local artisans—can be found at this Rehoboth Beach boutique.
“By hand-selecting our inventory, we are sure to have a little something for everyone—no matter their age, shape or size,” says owner Shapiro. “We want to make a difference with our customers by fulfilling any and every style need, and we pride ourselves in making our customers feel as beautiful inside as they are out. Our store is a place where mothers and daughters can come and shop together.”
Shapiro is all about having fun, creative self-expression with your wardrobe, and creating loyal customer relationships. “Since owning my own business, I have a fire I’ve never had before. It’s like something is depending on you every day to be successful, so it makes you give it your all.”
A fabulous boutique that will make grandmother, mom, and daughter happy. Escape the summer heat, have a seat, or dive right into their colorful selection of clothes, jewelry, and accessories.
Shapiro wants everyone to know that she and her team are so grateful for loyal customers who have helped build their business into a dream. “We welcome our new customers with love and sparkles and could not be happier to share our journey with every one of you.” Have questions? Contact Grace Boutique at 302-212-5092 or mgracef@aol.com.
News from Rehoboth in Bloom
Cindy Lovett
Rehoboth in Bloom has officially begun our 6th year. We would like to thank our wonderful Team Leaders for keeping us all together; Catherine Perge, Diane Cutler, Jill Shull, Linda Corcoran, Mary Van den Berg, Angela Carbonell-Mulligan, Becky Casey, Phyllis Fisher, Matt Gaffney, Bob Arner, and Carolyn Diefenderfer. We now have 72 volunteers maintaining 111 planters and 3 gardens. Our one major fundraiser, the Oldies Dance, is scheduled for Friday, March 28, 2025 and THE FUNSTERS will provide the tunes!! Mark your calendars!
News from RBMS
Dan Slagle Presents…
On Tuesday, May 7, our very own Dan Slagle, who has been RBMS Executive Director for five years, led an exciting learning session at the annual Main Street Now Conference in Birmingham, Alabama. Entitled “Economic Vitality and Seasonal Economies,” Dan presented along with Lisa Popovich from Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The presentation focused on developing year-round approaches and marketing strategies during the off-season. Since Steamboat Springs is mostly known as a winter resort, it provided an interesting contrast to our summer season.
Our heartiest congratulations to Dan for representing our town at its best and for being an important civic leader in our community. We are proud of him!
Rehoboth Post Office National Register of Historic Places Registration Project
You may have read about Rehoboth Beach Main Street’s post office project in the Cape Gazette. The post office, constructed in 1937 and featuring a fallout shelter in the basement, clearly falls within the historic category.
We are looking for individuals to join a task force created to advance our initiatives. Specific skills that would be beneficial include technical writing and architectural expertise. There are multiple components of the project to research and report. These include sourcing building materials, securing contractors, researching the history of the post office, and identifying what happened to the cupola on the roof.
We will be scheduling a meeting in June to brainstorm ideas and start working through the tasks.
If you are interested in joining our efforts, please contact the Main Street office at 302-227-2772 or email dan@downtownrb.com
Good News for RBMS Member Businesses re: Parking
RBMS member businesses may notify their employees that they may use the Rehoboth Beach Elementary School parking lot as a free parking option from June 14th through August 10th, which are the dates that the school staff will not be using the parking lot. Parking is available at the tennis/pickleball court area, the school bus parking area, and in front of the building.
Many thanks to RBMS Board & Organization Committee Member Rachel Macha, Economic Vitality (EV) Committee Member John Sikaitis, Board member & EV Committee Chair Stephen Scheffer, and Board member Mike Venanzi for taking the lead in arranging for this to happen.
Online News
● We have created an Event Venues page, which is now live on the RBMS Website: Event Venues | Rehoboth Beach Main Street (downtownrb.com). This page lists member businesses that can rent spaces for meetings and other group events to residents and visitors who are planning wedding receptions, conferences, small or large meetings, and other group events in Rehoboth Beach and are seeking a venue. This was an idea of RBMS board member Cindy Lovett, with work completed by Cindy, Rebecca Lertora, Peter Pizzolongo, and Michael MaLoon.
● We have also added an Opportunities Page to the RBMS Website: Opportunities | Rehoboth Beach Main Street (downtownrb.com). On this page, member businesses can advertise available positions for which they are hiring. This is our third year providing this service during the Summer Season. We plan to post job openings on our Opportunities Page May through August, unless we are otherwise notified in writing by a Rehoboth Beach business to remove its job opening announcement prior to August 31.
We are again using Google Ads as a benefit for our members—to attract visitors to Rehoboth Beach. The goal of this initiative is to increase awareness of “The Rehoboth Experience” by potential visitors from major metropolitan areas in driving distance to Rehoboth Beach: Washington DC, Baltimore MD, New York City NY, and Philadelphia, as identified by zip code areas.
The 2024 RBMS Google Ads, which will run from May–September, are:
● Visit Rehoboth Beach, Delaware www.downtownRB.com Stay in Rehoboth Beach! We have fabulous hotels & houses to rent!
● Visit Rehoboth Beach, Delaware www.downtownRB.com Dine and shop in Rehoboth Beach! We have fabulous restaurants, theaters, galleries, & clothing stores!
● Visit Rehoboth Beach, Delaware www.downtownRB.com Play and be pampered in Rehoboth Beach! We have the ocean, the bay, the boardwalk, Funland, spas, & more!
Looking for Something to Do in June?
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.
News from RBMS Members
Ribbon Cutting at Microbiz Accounting
Microbiz Accounting Financial and Business Services LLC and RBMS conducted a ribbon cutting on May 22. Paul Swiderski (owner) and Mary Pissott (office manager) are excited to be part of downtown Rehoboth, where they specialize in accounting services for micro businesses. Microbiz Accounting is located inside CoWork Reho at 511 N Boardwalk. To learn more about their services call Paul and Mary at 302-291-2714 or visit them online at www.mysmallbusinessaccountant.com
Participating in the ribbon-cutting on May 22, left to right: Carolyn Diefenderfer, RBMS Assistant Treasurer; Steve Scheffer, RBMS Board Member; Paul Swiderski, Owner; Mary Pissott, Office Manager; Dick Byrne, RBMS President; and Peter Pizzolongo, RBMS Board Member.
News from CAMP Rehoboth
● Rehoboth Beach Pride Signs, In partnership with Rehoboth Beach Main Street, CAMP Rehoboth will distribute Rehoboth Beach Pride signs for businesses to post proudly! Please contact info@camprehoboth.com if your business or organization would like to receive a sign and honor Pride month.
● Pride Unbound, Saturday, June 1–27; Opening reception: June 8, 2:00–4:00pm, CAMP Rehoboth Gallery
Pride Unbound is an immersive art exhibition dedicated to showcasing the diverse voices and perspectives within the LGBTQ+ community. Through a variety of mediums, LGBTQ+ and queer artists share their talent and explore pertinent themes, inviting visitors to engage with the rich tapestry of queer identity, history, and experience.
● Queering Rehoboth Beach, Sunday, June 2, 4:00pm
CAMP Rehoboth will host a book launch event for James Sears’s Queering Rehoboth Beach: Beyond the Boardwalk. Sears’s book chronicles the rise of the LGBTQ+ community in Rehoboth Beach, and its history through the early 2000s. “It’s important to understand our past so that we can know how to chart our future,” said CAMP Rehoboth Executive Director Kim Leisey about the book and its launch. After a discussion of the history of LGBTQ+ life in Rehoboth Beach, conversation will open up to the community to talk about what’s transpired since the early 2000s, and what lies ahead. Register here.
● Pride Film Festival, June 13-16, Cinema Art Theater, Lewes
The Rehoboth Beach Film Society (RBFS) is proud to present the 2024 PRIDE Film Festival in partnership with CAMP Rehoboth. The four-day festival will showcase LGBTQ+ documentaries, features, and international films. Headlining this year’s PRIDE Film Festival is a 25-year retrospective screening of director Jim Fall’s classic film Trick, which follows the romantic misadventures of two young gay men in Manhattan (1999). Director Fall will attend the Trick screening on Saturday evening—join for a retrospective evening with a party and the film. Purchase tickets here.
For a complete list of CAMP Rehoboth Events, see Save the Date below.
Happy Anniversary, Green Truck Shop!
It's our one-year anniversary in Rehoboth Beach and we are celebrating by offering YOU a free gift! With a purchase of $99 or more, you will receive a free home decor selection! (Pictured below are some of the choices. Home decor selections may vary. In-store purchases only and while supplies last)
Come on over and celebrate with us!
Beaches-The Green Truck Shop
33-C Baltimore Avenue
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Facebook page: Beaches-The Green Truck Stop
Bomshell Boutique Ribbon Cutting at New Location!
Bomshell Boutique has been an established boutique on the Avenue since 2019, and recently relocated to 146 Rehoboth Avenue. Bomshell is owned by Jaime Carter-Houck, and features on-trend women's clothing, accessories, jewelry, gifts, a baby line, and a Versa Spray Tan booth. Bomshell Boutique has unique, insta-worthy vibes and has become a destination for tourists. The shop aims to make every woman at any age feel sexy and confident in her style because when you look good, you feel good!
Bomshell Boutique Rehoboth
Phone: (302) 745-2277
Participating in the Ribbon Cutting, Left to Right:Jerry Filbin, RBMS Board Member, Cindy Lovett, RBMS Board Member, Dick Byrne, RBMS President, Carolyn Diefenderfer, RBMS Assistant Treasurer, Sawyer Carter, Fletcher Houck, Diane Lane, Jaime Carter-Houck, Owner, Ed Houck, Brexton Carter, Eddie Houck, Sandra Skidmore, RBMS Board Member, Jen Carroll, RBMS Board Member, Steve Scheffer, RBMS Board Member, James Mease, RBMS Committee Member.
News from Rehoboth Beach Bears
● Rehoboth Beach Bears at Delaware Pride, June 1, 10:00am-5:00pm, Legislative Hall, Dover
● FURst Friday, June 7, 5:00-7:00pm, Aqua Bar & Grill
● Bear Pride, Leather Happy Hour & Bear Party, June 14-15, 5:00pm, Aqua Bar & Grill
● Beer Bust, June 16, 2:00-8:00pm, Aqua Bar & Grill
Come to Town on June 8th for the RBMS Margarita Crawl!
Rehoboth Beach Main Street is again convening one of our most popular events: The Margarita Crawl! On Saturday, June 8, 2024, 1:00pm–4:00pm, an anticipated 1,000 people will be strolling downtown Rehoboth Beach to have a taste of the margaritas (including mock ‘ritas) at 24 participating restaurants. The 2024 Margarita Crawl is hosted by RBMS, Dano’s Tequila, and Schell Brothers.
The participating restaurants are:
Tickets are $20 and are available at the RBMS office, 509 Rehoboth Avenue, or by calling 302-227-2772.
Hope to see y’all on June 8!
RBMS’ Reach via Social Media, the Website, and the Newsletter
● Facebook reach for April was up 267%, with more than 90,000 views. Content interaction is up 11%, with 2,000 Likes/Comments/Shares. We now have 10,000 followers!
● Instagram Reach is 2,900, which is consistent with prior months.
● Facebook top posts in April were: Summer Bandstand (28,000 views), Margarita Crawl (19,000), Purple Parrot (18,000), Gumbo Crawl Results (7,300), Farmers Market (4,000).
● Instagram top posts in April were: Purple Parrot (1,480), Margarita Crawl (1,100), Farmers Market (900), Rehoboth Beach Bears (800), and Back Porch (750).
● Website Views: Webcam (3,800), Calendar (1,100), Gumbo Crawl (760), Shop Directory (500), About RBMS (409), April Newsletter (300).
May Newsletter Stats
● We now have 1,836 subscribers, including new subscribers recently added via the Subscribe pop-up on the RBMS website. The May newsletter open rate is 57%, click rate is 6%. Website newsletter views for the May issue is 220.
● Average rates for non-profit member organizations: 42% open rate, 2.75% click rate.
Exciting Events Planned For…
Celebrate Rehoboth Beach Pride Comedy Night and Dance Party, Saturday, July 20th!!
Gay Women of Rehoboth are planning an exciting Rehoboth Pride event on the evening of July 20th. Beach Pride Comedy Night is being held at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center at 229 Rehoboth Avenue from 6:00-7:00pm, immediately followed by the pride dance from 8:15pm to 11:15pm! Pack the house and enjoy hysterically fun comedy from Roxanna Ward, Vicky Shaw, and Lisa Koch! You are guaranteed to laugh until you cry.
Afterward, dance the night away with friends and family, and participate in a fabulous pride celebration!
For information about the event and the purchase of tickets, go to the following website: EventBrite.
Recognizing Our Volunteers: Peter Pizzolongo
Peter Pizzolongo is Chair of the RBMS Communications Committee, a member of the RBMS Board of Directors, and served as the newsletter Executive Editor from 2021 through March 2024. He and his spouse, Carlos Prugue, moved to the Rehoboth Beach area full-time in 2018 when they purchased a home in the Redden Ridge community. Previously, they divided their time between Washington DC and Rehoboth Beach, with a condo in Eagles Landing, and have been visitors to Rehoboth Beach since the 1970s.
Peter is an early childhood educator and served as an administrator and teacher-trainer for various organizations, including Zero To Three and the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), as well as several consulting firms and institutions of higher education in the Washington DC area, as well as his alma mater, U DE. He enjoys yoga, Tai Chi, Zumba, LaBlast, tap dancing, biking, scootering, and cooking. In addition to his roles with RBMS, Peter is a board member of the Lewes Senior Activity Center; Clear Space Theatre Producer’s Circle member; member and former Vice-President of the Delaware AEYC affiliate; and past-appointee to the U DE College of Education and Human Development Dean’s Advisory Council (2015–2024).
Stepping down from the editorship of the newsletter, Peter is happy to turn the newsletter reins over to Peter Beck, who has been a member of the RBMS Communications Committee for several years and has served as a writer of many articles. Peter Beck and RBMS staff member Rebecca Lertora will be responsible for the final production of the newsletter. Peter Pizzolongo will have oversight for newsletter production and will continue as a writer.
City Update
News from DNREC re: Deauville Beach
Following a virtual community meeting and public input through a survey, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control’s proposed user fees for Deauville Beach have been approved by the Parks and Recreation Council and DNREC Secretary Shawn M. Garvin. A daily entrance fee or a Deauville annual pass will be required for use of the beach from Memorial Day weekend through November 30, 2024. Deauville Beach annual passes will be available for sale starting Wednesday, May 15.
Daily and weekend entrance fees remain unchanged from what the City of Rehoboth Beach charged in 2023 at $15 for weekdays and $20 for weekends. DNREC will also have a Deauville Beach annual pass for $115; those with a Delaware State Parks annual pass, lifetime pass, or surf fishing permit will receive a $25 discount, making it $90 for the entire fee season. Walk-ons and bicyclists will continue to use the beach without paying a daily entrance fee.
Daily entrance fees will be collected via two automated fee machines and fee booth attendants. Annual passes will be sold in person at Deauville on the weekends of May 25, June 1, and June 8. In addition, they will be available at the Cape Henlopen State Park and Indian River Lifesaving Station offices or online at destateparks.com/PassesTagsFees throughout the entire fee season.
The Deauville Beach annual pass will not be accepted at other Delaware State Park locations. The City of Rehoboth Beach permits will no longer be honored at Deauville Beach as Delaware State Parks do not accept municipal passes or permits.
Delaware Natural Resources Police will be responsible for the enforcement of state park rules and regulations at Deauville Beach. Delaware State Beach Patrol will provide lifeguard service starting Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Concessions will be available for tennis, beach chair and umbrella rentals, and limited food service.
For more information about the DNREC Division of Parks and Recreation’s management of Deauville Beach, including a list of frequently asked questions and the latest updates, go to destateparks.com.
Bandstand Previews Summer Concert Series with Memorial Day Weekend
Performances at the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand Memorial Day weekend spanned the musical spectrum with a high-energy dance band, the US Navy's premier country-bluegrass ensemble, and a Bon Jovi tribute band all taking the stage.Mike Hines & the Look kicked off the weekend party Friday, May 24. On Saturday, the US Navy Band Country Current two-stepped in, and Shot Thru Heart offered the weekend's curtain call Sunday evening. All concerts begin at 8:00pm and are free and open to the public. Seating is available at the bandstand on a first-come, first-served basis; no reserving seats please.The Rehoboth Beach Bandstand Summer Concert Series kicks off officially when local favorite Love Seed Mama Jump performs Friday, June 14. Free concerts will take place at the bandstand at 8:00pm Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through August 31.The US Navy Band Commodores will offer a special performance Thursday, July 4. And on July 6, before and after Rehoboth Beach's fireworks display, the Funsters will bring their brand of fun and music to the bandstand.
Get to Know the New City Manager
Come share a coffee and conversation with Taylour Tedder, Rehoboth's new city manager, at 9:00am on Wednesday, June 5, in the training room on the third floor of City Hall. The public is invited to drop in between 9:00 and 10:00am to meet and have a brief conversation with Tedder, who began his new role May 15. (Use the elevator across from the convention center to access the third floor training room.)"I'm eager to get to know residents and business owners in the community," Tedder says. "I look forward to this early opportunity to meet people and hear a little bit about what is important to them."In the meantime, Lines in the Sand asked Tedder a few personal questions to help you get to know him.
We started out easy, asking Tedder about his favorite music.Tedder: I love all types of music, anything from pop, rock, and country, but my favorite is '90s music. I'm a really big fan of the B-52s. I've seen them live, and I absolutely love them. Some of my favorites are their lesser-known songs.
Tell us about your first job. My first job was working for my dad's catering company, Two Guys & A Grill. They're onsite grilling specialists for events of 50–5,000 people.... I initially worked as a server, then graduated to being able to manage the grill. I was his bookkeeper when I was in college.... Being a family business, it really strengthened my notion of work ethic and taking ownership in everything you do.
But what did you want to be when you were growing up?I wanted to be a dentist, but then I realized that science isn't my strongest ability. I went as a freshman to college as a pre-dental major. I switched to economics because that was a lot more fun for me and my brain understood it.
What is it about working in local government that appeals to you?City government is probably the most impactful sector of government there is. While people may not always think so, we are the quickest of all government entities. We're able to make an impact on people's daily lives, whether that's fixing a pothole, building a park, or ensuring safe drinking water. Residents can easily reach out to us and tell us what matters to them and what they need. It's rewarding to drive around town and see the differences we're able to make in the community. I love being a servant-leader and helping people through a culture of customer service excellence.
What's your secret talent?While I don't always have the time, I love home improvement projects. If I don't know how to do it, I can figure it out. I'm very skilled in many things home improvement, but when I'm not, everything is only a YouTube video away. It's fun for me to figure things out, it's kind of like a puzzle.
You've said that you fell in love with Rehoboth Beach. What is it that attracted you to Rehoboth?I've always been drawn to places that feel like a small community. While there are 1,500 full-time residents in Rehoboth, there's really a lot more going on here—and yet it feels like an intimate community. It's my favorite type of community—you're able to get to know people, and they're able to get to know you. It lends to effectiveness in local government because we can make the changes that people have told us are valuable to them.
Rainbow Crosswalk Installed!
In June, Pride Month is commemorated nationwide. This year, a rainbow crosswalk has been installed at the intersection of Steve Elkins Way, Baltimore Avenue, and Second Street to honor the diverse and significant contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals to our community.
Delaware EARNS Launches Pilot Program Ahead of Official Launch
Delaware EARNS is a retirement savings program for private-sector workers who don’t have access to a workplace plan through their jobs. Beginning on July 1, 2024, employers with 5 or more Delaware employees (full or part-time) are required to facilitate EARNS if they do not offer a qualified retirement plan, such as a 401(k).
In preparation for the official program launch, nearly a dozen private-sector employers will participate in a pilot of EARNS during May to help ensure systems are fully ready.
“The start of the employer pilot is a true milestone,” Treasurer Colleen C. Davis said. “It’s thrilling to see a goal we have been working toward for years become a reality. We have nearly 150,000 private-sector workers in our state with no access to retirement savings through their employers. We now have a real opportunity to change that with the EARNS program.”
Delaware employers that want to get a head start on offering access to a competitive retirement benefit can register as early as July 1 at earnsdelaware.com. For employers, there is no cost for facilitating the EARNS program and no plan-sponsor liability.
For more information about Delaware EARNS, visit earnsdelaware.com.
Can the movie industry be lured to Rehoboth Beach? Here’s an exciting entertainment opportunity!
The Delaware Motion Picture and Television Commission is now accepting applications for a pilot program entitled the Entertainment Industry Fund to grow the entertainment industry in our state.
Through this exciting grant program, applicants with projects of $500,000 or more can seek reimbursement of up to 30% of production, pre production, or postproduction expenditures incurred in Delaware. Reimbursements of up to 20% of approved costs can be sought for projects between $100,000 and $500,000.
Sounds exciting! Perhaps Rehoboth Beach can be used in a film or a tv show as a stand-in for Malibu!
For more information, visit https://www.filmdelaware.com/grant. Applications are due by 4:30 p.m., June 14, 2024, and can be emailed to: info@FilmDelaware.com.
Save the Date!
For full descriptions of the events listed below, go to the Save-the-Date page on the RBMS Website.
Summer Bash
Saturday, 6/1, 11:00am–2:00pm
Grove Park, 501 Rehoboth Avenue
Beaches—The Green Truck Shop 1 Year Anniversary Promotion
Saturday, 6/1, through Saturday, 6/30
33C Baltimore Avenue
Clear Space Theatre Presents “The Roommate”
Saturday, 6/1, 7:00pm, and Sunday, 6/2, 2:00pm
20 Baltimore Avenue
Rehoboth Beach Bears at Delaware Pride
June 1, 10:00am–5:00pm
Legislative Hall, Dover
2024 Coastal Delaware Restaurant Week to Support the Red, White & Blue on the Culinary CoastTM!
Sunday, 6/2, 11:00am, through Friday, 6/7, 11:30pm
CAMP Rehoboth—Book Launch: “Queering Rehoboth Beach: Beyond the Boardwalk” by James Sears
Sunday, 6/2, 4:00pm
CAMP Rehoboth, 37 Baltimore Avenue
Rehoboth Concert Band Performance
Monday, 6/3, 8:00pm–9:15pm
Rehoboth Beach Bandstand
Rehoboth Beach Farmers Market
Tuesday, 6/4, 6/11, 6/18 and 6/25, 10:00am to 2:00pm
Grove Park, 501 Rehoboth Avenue
Story Time at the Farmer’s Market
Tuesdays, 6/4 – 8/27, at 10:00am
Grove Park, 501 Rehoboth Avenue
Cash Bingo Fundraiser
Wednesday, 6/5, Doors open at 11:30am - Games start at 1:00pm
Cape Henlopen Senior Center
11 Christian Street
Delaware Law Enforcement Torch Run Ceremony
Wednesday, 6/5, 4:00–8:00pm
Rehoboth Beach Bandstand
Those Who Led the Way: Pride
Thursday, 6/6, 5:00pm–7:00pm
Rehoboth Beach Museum
Rehoboth Beach Bears
FURst Friday
Friday, 6/7, 5:00–7:00pm
Aqua Bar & Grill, 57 Baltimore Avenue
Rehoboth Avenue Railroad Era Diorama with Paul Lovett
Friday, 6/7, 6/14, 6/21, and 6/28 at 10:30am - Lecture
Monday, 6/10, 6/17, and 6/24, at 2:00pm - Lecture
Rehoboth Beach Museum, 511 Rehoboth Avenue
Browseabout Books June Book Signings
133 Rehoboth Avenue
Author Judy Murray – Peril in the Pool House
Saturday, 6/8, from 3:00 to 6:00pm
Author Brooke Foster Book Signing – All the Summers in Between
Sunday, 6/9/ from 2:00 to 4:00pm
Author Elin Hilderbrand – Swan Song
Sunday, 6/16, 3:30pm – Tickets required
Clear Space Theatre Tony Party
Sunday, 6/9, from 4:00 to 7:00pm
Top of the Pines, 56 Baltimore Avenue
True Blue Jazz ’24 Returns to the Pines
Tuesday, 6/13, 8:30pm
The Pines, 56 Baltimore Avenue
Rehoboth Beach Bears
Bear Pride: Leather Happy Hour & Bear Party
June 14–15, 5:00pm
Aqua Bar & Grill, 57 Baltimore Avenue
Rehoboth Beach Bears
Bear Beer Bust
Sunday, 6/16, 2:00pm–8:00pm
Aqua Bar & Grill, 57 Baltimore Avenue
34th Father’s Day 5K
Sunday, 6/16, 7:30–9:00am
Zogg’s, Wilmington Ave & The Boardwalk
CAMP Chorus to Present “On the Road Again”
Friday & Saturday, 6/14 and 6/15, at 7:00pm
Sunday, 6/16, at 2:00pm
Epworth United Methodist Church, 19285 Holland Glade Road
Jolly Trolley—Rehoboth Beach-Lewes Orientation Tour
Monday, 6/17, 1:15–2:25pm
Rehoboth Beach Bandstand
CAMP Rehoboth – Pride in the Courtyard
Thursday, 6/20, 5:00–7:00pm
37 Baltimore Avenue
Jack O’Hollaren Annual Wheels for Meals Bike Ride
Saturday, 6/22
Hudson Fields on Eagle Crest Road, Milton, DE
Clear Space Theatre Presents “Jersey Boys”
Tuesday, 6/25 through Thursday, 8/29
Tuesday, 6/25, 6:30pm Reception, 7:30pm Curtain
Wednesday, 6/26, and Thursday, 6/27, 7:30 pm
20 Baltimore Avenue
CAMP Rehoboth
National HIV Testing Day
Thursday, June 27, all day
37 Baltimore Avenue
Clear Space Theatre Presents “Rock
of Ages”
Friday, 6/28, through Saturday, 8/31
Friday, 6/28, and Saturday, 6/29, 7:30pm
20 Baltimore Avenue
CAMP Rehoboth – Voices from Stonewall: 55th Anniversary
Friday and Saturday, 6/28 & 6/29, 7:00pm
37 Baltimore Avenue
The Rehoboth Art League has the following exhibitions scheduled in June:
The Paper Forest – Paper Art by Jennifer Hudson
Friday, 6/14, through Sunday, 7/14
Ventures Gallery, 12 Dodds Lane
51st Annual Members’ Fine Craft Exhibition – RAL Member Artists
Friday, 6/14, - Sunday, 7/14
Corkran and Tubbs Galleries, 12 Dodds Lane
Rehoboth Beach Bandstand Summer Concert Series
Friday–Sunday, 6/14 – 6/30, 8:00pm–9:15pm
Rehoboth Beach Bandstand. Rehoboth Avenue and the Boardwalk
Irreverent Warriors Silkies Hike
Saturday, 6/29, 8:00am–5:30pm
Rehoboth Beach Library
226 Rehoboth Avenue
For a full calendar of events during June at the library, please visit Rehoboth Beach Public Library - LibCal - Delaware Libraries
Mark Your Calendars for This July Event
Saturday, 7/20, 8:15pm to 11:15pm
Rehoboth Beach Convention Center
229 Rehoboth Avenue
The famous and legendary 2D arcade game Dinosaur Game asks you to assist the T-Rex dinosaur in its journey through the vast desert. Enjoy yourself by joining today!
One thing that caught my attention was the emphasis on regular equipment maintenance to prevent costly breakdowns. This is especially true for those in industries relying heavily on machinery, where electric motor repair is a critical part of keeping operations running smoothly. It’s good to see tips on how to detect early signs of motor wear and tear before they escalate into major issues. I think highlighting practical advice like this really helps businesses stay on top of their maintenance game and avoid unexpected downtime.