RBMS Newsletter—May 2023—Compilation
Volume 3, Issue 5
Memorial Day
The month of May is met with great anticipation in Rehoboth Beach and the DELMARVA peninsula. The weather has turned decidedly warmer, days are growing longer, and by month’s end the Memorial Day holiday signals the unofficial beginning of Summer and another beach season for all to enjoy. It is the month we turn our thoughts to summer days and look forward to spending more time outside as we observe a number of festive celebrations, beginning with the Mexican Army's victory over France during the French and Indian War of 1882. Cinco De Mayo on May 5th will have us searching for our favorite margaritas. This is followed closely by the 149th running of the Kentucky Derby, a staple of American sports, when a fresh group of colts with dreams of winning the coveted Triple Crown enter Churchill Downs, the legendary racetrack, on May 6th while we all sit back and enjoy mint julips. By the time May 14th arrives it is time to celebrate Mother's Day when we reflect on the importance of mothers in our lives, with their unconditional love and support. We close out May with Memorial Day on May 29th, when we pay tribute to the men and women in our country's military who have died in service to the United States, but not before the biggest spectacle in racing returns to the Indianapolis Motor speedway for the 107th running of the Indy 500 on May 28th at the storied brickyard.
Meanwhile, here in Rehoboth Beach, along with the national festivities, another beach season has arrived with all of the fanfare associated with our holiday celebrations. Thousands will visit Rehoboth Beach and enjoy swimming, boating, and fishing along with cookouts, and trips to the boardwalk for ice cream, French fries, and so much more. Rehoboth Beach Main Street is thrilled to spotlight some of our member businesses that are guaranteed to make your stay here memorable.
First up this month is Double Dippers at 11 N. 1st St., which is beginning Season 25 under new management. They are still a local old-fashioned ice cream parlor serving Hershey's Ice Cream—a crowd favorite. Stop by and welcome Nate and Eluh Diehl and enjoy some of the best ice cream at the beach. Meandering north to 28 1st street you will arrive at Stich-Stash, a unique full-service shop specializing in all things needle point. Customer service is one of their main focuses, and they would love for you stop by for all of your needlepoint supplies.
After leaving Stich-Stash go on over to 33 Baltimore Avenue where you will find Beach Essentials, presenting the latest beach clothes and accessories for men in all the latest fashion styles and colors.
At 316 Rehoboth Avenue you will find Dogfish Head's Brewpub and Chesapeake & Maine—two restaurants joined by a courtyard and merchandise store. The brewpub has become known for original beer, spirits, and food. Serving up a menu of wood-grilled dishes and live music, it is sure to please everyone. Next door is the ever-popular Chesapeake & Maine, Dogfish Head’s seafood and cocktails spot. With seafood sourced exclusively from the Chesapeake and Maine region, you’ll find coastal dishes, handcrafted cocktails, and Dogfish beers in a casual, nautical-themed atmosphere.
Be sure to check out the merchandise at Rehoboth Breeze, 117 Rehoboth Avenue. They are a family-owned business that carries a large selection of high-quality cotton apparel. They have both funky and classic designs in top-quality t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, and bags.
The Cotton Club is another small upscale boutique selling fashionable, comfy women's clothing, located in the Village by the Sea shops at 149 Rehoboth Avenue. Always looking for the next big trend in women's clothes you will be sure to find something to your liking at the Cotton Club.
Victoria's Restaurant in the Boardwalk Plaza Hotel at 2 Olive Avenue offers Oceanfront dining in an intimate setting overlooking the beach and boardwalk. With a full menu, you will be able to find all your favorites while enjoying the views of the boardwalk and ocean.
We hope you find these Rehoboth Beach Main Street member businesses to your liking. We invite you to take a minute to stop and enjoy the myriad of flowers Rehoboth In Bloom has been planting and caring for to enhance your Rehoboth experience. You can read more about each of our spotlighted business later in this newsletter.
Happy Memorial Day!
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 The Ice Cream Store and Somewhere Rehoboth for renewing at the Green Partner level!
RBMS thanks these businesses for renewing as RBMS members!
RBMS also acknowledges the other community not-for-profit organizations in Rehoboth Beach with complimentary memberships recognizing their community contributions. They include Rehoboth Beach Homeowners Association, Village Improvement Association, Rehoboth Beach Public Library, CAMP Rehoboth, Cape Henlopen Senior Center, Clear Space Theatre, and the Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Chamber of Commerce.
For information about levels and benefits of RBMS membership, go to Join | Rehoboth Beach Main Street (downtownrb.com)
Showcasing Rehoboth Beach Businesses
Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats
Dan Slagle
Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats, located at 320 Rehoboth Avenue, originated as the smallest commercial brewery in the United States and is where the Dogfish Head brand began! This off-centered brewpub proudly serves up wood-grilled and wood-fired foods, most notably burgers and pizzas. It’s scratch-made menu also features original pub fare like Crab & Corn Chowder, Seafood Tacos and House Baked Pretzel Bites, alongside sandwiches and tacos, soups and salads, and entrees.
Its state-of-the-art stage hosts regional and national music acts year round, while also hosting special, music-centric events, like live brand karaoke every other Wednesday at 7:00pm, to get guests involved in the fun!
Stop by for a selection of off-centered ales including cask beers and Brewpub Exclusives “imported” from its onsite brewhouse. Taste something you love? Grab a 4-pack to-go from the Off-Centered EmPOURium right next door!
Brewings & Eats is also currently running a great selection of seasonal specials, available until May 21:
· Tuesday: 25% Off Wood-Grilled Burgers & Wood-Fired Pizzas All Day
· Wednesday: 25% Off Rehoboth Exclusive Draft Beers
· Thursday: 25% Off Wood-Grilled Burgers & Wood-Fired Pizzas All Day
· Friday: 25% Off Vintage Bottles To-Go!
· Saturday: 25% Off Desserts. In Restaurant Only
· Sunday: 25% Off Canned Cocktails. In Restaurant Only
For more on Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats, visit www.dogfish.com/restaurants/brewpub and @dogfishrehoboth on Instagram. Phone: 302-226-2739.
Stitch-Stash
Dan Slagle
Stitch-Stash is a full-service needlepoint store. There are 2 locations, and the shops are in Rehoboth Beach and Darien CT. The Rehoboth Beach shop address is 102 North First Street.
Customer service is one of Stitch-Stash’s main focuses, and they love their stitchers! If you're in the neighborhood, stop by to say hello, or come into stitch for a while. They look forward to meeting you!
Stitch-Stash is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11:00am to 4:00pm. They are closed Sundays & Mondays (all year). Stitch-Stash has free shipping across the country! Phone: 302-569-0063, email: Stitch-Stash@hotmail.com.
Double Dippers
Jeff Balk
Double Dippers was opened April 19, 1999, by Joe Mack and Tom Gile. It’s remained an old-fashioned ice cream parlor at 11 North 1st Street all of these years serving Hershey’s Premium Ice Cream. Order up a cup, cone, or your favorite sundae, shakes, float, or banana split and many other ice cream treats.
After 24 years, Joe Mack handed over the reins to Nate and Eluh Deihl. Nate is no stranger to Rehoboth Beach as his mother, Silvia Taffel Diehl, owned Mizzen Mast for 31 years. The Diehls opened at the end of March and are there seven days a week serving up your favorite ice cream treats.
Double Dippers is a favorite of President Joe Biden. His usual is a waffle cone of chocolate chip ice cream, and on occasion he will leave with a quart to go. He is always very friendly and spends time talking to all the customers.
Over the last twenty-four years, Double Dippers has become a hangout for many locals as well as weekenders and tourists. There is seating inside and benches down the street to enjoy your cold creamy treats.
After 24 years Joe Mack appreciates the support and the friendships that he has made along the way, and don’t be surprised if you see him helping out this summer. And the new owners Nate and Eluh are looking forward to making new friendships in the future.
Beach Essentials
George Yaksic
Beach Essentials, an upscale clothing shop for fashion-forward males, located in the courtyard of the Shops at Baltimore Commons on Baltimore Avenue (33 Baltimore Avenue #G), has always been a shopping destination for Rehoboth Beach visitors and residents alike. In 2022, they celebrated their 25th year in business under the current owner, Gregory Brown. The LGBTQ+ friendly shop is well known in Philadelphia, New York, Washington DC, and the Atlantic coastal region. They are also well known in the Rehoboth Beach community. As members of Rehoboth Beach Main Street, they participated in our Fashion Show and Holiday Decorating Event; they also support charitable causes such as Red Cross Relief and AIDS Delaware.
Originally, Beach Essentials was a men’s apparel and furniture store, but Brown now is laser-focused exclusively on men’s apparel, especially beachwear, casual fashions, and accessories. Once you step into the shop, you can’t help but notice the eye-popping displays with bold and bright primary colors and beautiful fabrics. The store is well organized with dedicated areas for swimwear, underwear, tees and tank tops, and paired tops and shorts or pants on display.
Swimwear, including board shorts, square cuts, and bikini briefs from well-known manufacturers, is their top seller, with a large revolving inventory of over 2,000 swimsuits in the average year. They also carry accessories such as towels, sandals and flipflops, hats and sunglasses, belts, and bags. (You know, the Beach Essentials.)
The knowledgeable and helpful staff are quick to assist or offer suggestions to complete a wardrobe collection. Most are longtime residents of Rehoboth Beach who enjoy interacting with customers who they have known for years. The staff knows their audience’s tastes and preferences and uses that insight to offer them a unique and satisfying shopping experience.
Ed Gmoch, buyer and assistant manager, has been at the store for twelve years—he is always impeccably dressed and a walking billboard for the latest fashions the store has to offer. Even on the hottest July day, he is cool, calm, and very collected.
Since the store is just a block from the beach and boardwalk, you can shop for that night’s casual wear or tomorrow’s swimsuit on the way back from the sun and surf. At times, the store will suddenly fill with a group of friends who create an ad hoc fashion show—trying on outfits, doing a short runway stroll, and hoping for positive reviews from their friends.
With summer just around the corner and the Sidewalk Sale in early May, now is the time to pay your first of many visits to Beach Essentials this year. Beginning May 20, Beach Essentials will be open seven days a week from 10:00am to 6:00pm throughout the summer season. Phone: 302-227-5210, email: beachessentials@verizon.net.
Cotton Club - Classic, Comfortable, and Chic
Colleen Evans
Nestled in the heart of Rehoboth Beach at 149 Rehoboth Avenue, the Cotton Club boutique is owned by local resident Debbie Monroe, who founded the store in 1988. Monroe’s mission since opening 35 years ago has been to make every client feel at home when she or he stops by—offering new and longtime customers styles that are casual yet sophisticated and timeless.
Monroe has always been ahead of the Coastal clothing trend, drawing from her experience as a former buyer for Bonwit Teller, the iconic New York-based luxury department store. Featuring chic, effortlessly elegant, clean, classic pieces, it’s safe to say that Cotton Club’s relaxed-yet-refined spin on your fashion style reminds everyone that expressing themselves through clothing will never go out of style. Monroe is particularly proud of the repeat business she has cultivated through the years, citing that she now has three generations shopping at the boutique.
“Our main goal at Cotton Club is to make everyone feel like the best version of themselves, no matter their age or size,” says Monroe. “We offer you fashion that is not only beautiful but wearable and timeless.”
The Cotton Club adds to the charm of Rehoboth Beach, a small-town destination that is loved year-round by vacationers and full-time residents, where an easygoing vibe and beautiful coastal views make for an intoxicating combination that pairs well with the boutiques’ clothing selections.
One of Cotton Club’s most sought-after brands is clothing by Gretchen Scott. According to Gretchen Scott’s website, they feature “clothing that packs easily, transitions from day to night, office to dinner or cocktails, carpool to the swimming pool”—the perfect brand and look for a Rehoboth Beach lifestyle.
“In this online shopping era, we tend to forget the unique experience of an in-person shopping experience” says Monroe. “The personal touch of a local, seasoned fashion expert assisting you with their knowledge, seeing first-hand what the items look like, how they fit. And how we at the Cotton Club strive to find the best outfits for our clients with no waiting time, delivery fees and the hassle of tracking your order.”
So, on your next visit to Rehoboth Avenue, if you’ve got somewhere to go and nothing to wear, or shopping for the perfect, classic look to add to your wardrobe, the Cotton Club is the spot that’ll earn you all the “oohs” and “ahhs” you could ever want. Phone: 302-226-0640.
Victoria’s Restaurant at the Boardwalk Plaza Hotel
Delaware’s best waterfront restaurant that promises more than a view
Colleen Evans
We’re convinced that food and cocktails taste better when there’s an incredible view. This along with the combination of hot sun and cold drinks can work up an appetite, leading to discussions about where to dine.
That’s where Victoria’s Restaurant at Boardwalk Plaza Hotel checks all the boxes. Located at 2 Olive Avenue on the Boardwalk, Victoria’s is known by locals and vacationers as Rehoboth Beach’s premier dining destination. The restaurant is perched steps from the white sands of coastal Delaware with picturesque beach views that further enhance your breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea, and Sunday brunch. Or, you can chose to order a specialty cocktail or craft beer on the outdoor patio, where watching the people strolling the boardwalk is a sublime way to spend a lazy summer afternoon or evening.
“We strive to give our customers great food and service in a comfortable, beautiful setting” says beverage manager Kathy Townsend and described their menu as comfort food with flair. “Victoria’s offers traditional American dishes with a side of beautiful scenery.”
For a real treat, head over for Happy Hour (Sunday through Thursday, 3:00 to 5:00pm) in Victoria’s Plaza Pub. Take advantage of weekly specials, created by Beverage Manager extraordinaire Kathy Townsend. Monday is Ladies Night from 4:00 to 9:00pm, the perfect place to gather the girls to enjoy $8 Splits of Champagne, Prosecco or Sparkling Rose and $10 Martinis; Tuesday evenings for Flight Night and specially selected wines, Scotch, and Bourbon with cheese, fruit, and crostini for $4 off from 4:00 to 9:00pm; ‘Mack the Nite’ on Wednesday evenings with Keith Mack’s guitar and vocals from 5:00 to 9:00pm, including $10 Martinis from 3:00 to 6:00pm. Thursday is Burger Night from 4:00 to 9:00pm, where you can build your own starting at $10, served with Kettle Chips & Pickle. Or, take a seat at the outdoor patio to enjoy cocktails, food, and the bustling boardwalk activity with a spectacular ocean view.
Another well-loved tradition is Mother’s Day, coming up on Sunday, May 14. One of the most popular yearly events at Victoria’s, this year will feature an elaborate brunch from 10:00am to 3:00pm, with reservations highly suggested.
Boardwalk Plaza Hotel and Victoria’s Restaurant have always had a strong sense of community, giving back to non-profits, and committed to serving the underserved. The hotel and restaurant has partnered with Read Aloud Delaware, a nonprofit dedicated to early childhood literacy and Cashmere Gardens, a “conscious luxury boutique” specializing in timeless classics for women of all ages, for a spring fashion show event with a portion of the proceeds to benefit Read Aloud Delaware. The May 7 event, from 1:00 to 4:00pm will also feature additional vendors for shopping. “Supporting local charities like Read Aloud Delaware and partnering with local businesses show our hotel and restaurant guests how we work hard to support our community,” explains Townsend. Tickets are $25 per person pre-sale and $30 at the door and include a complimentary cocktail and passed hors d’oeuvres and can be purchased through Victoria’s Restaurant.
Victoria’s is the kind of place that makes you feel like a regular and inspires you to become one. Phone: 302-227-0615.
Rehoboth Breeze
Peter Beck
Looking for a great shop to buy souvenir shirts of a trip to Rehoboth Beach? Look no further than Rehoboth Breeze, located just a block away from the boardwalk at 117 Rehoboth Avenue.
Rehoboth Breeze is a family-owned business that has been a fixture in town for many years. They sell a large variety of interesting and colorful sweatshirts and tees from companies such as Buddy by the Sea, Harbor Design, Sea Dog, Fish Out of Water, Planet Cotton, NuBlu Sport, American Fido, and Ocean Beach. In addition, Rehoboth Breeze is also the only store authorized in Rehoboth to sell Big Hed designs: colorful tee shirts and sweatshirts that feature hip and funky original beach-inspired designs.
Current hours for the store are Friday from 10:00am–2:00pm, Saturday from 10:00am–3:00pm, and Sunday from 10:00am–2:00pm. But, if you are eager to make a purchase, don’t fret! The Rehoboth Breeze online store is open 24-7; check out their website at Beach Shirts, Sweatshirts, & Souvenirs Catalog | Rehoboth Breeze. To make online shopping even easier, the shop has its QR code posted directly in the window to ensure easy access via a smartphone!
Stop in at Rehoboth Breeze, enjoy the warm and friendly service, and find just the right gift for that special someone, or even for yourself! Phone: 302-226-5720.
News from Rehoboth Beach Main Street
New Staff at Rehoboth Beach Main Street
RBMS is pleased to announce a new staff position! George Yaksic began as Part-Time Program Coordinator on April 3. In this position, he is responsible for maintaining the membership database, managing RBMS correspondence, managing and maintaining successful relationships with the media, and other tasks. George will work closely with the RBMS Executive Director, Dan Slagle, to ensure that RBMS continues as a successful, well-managed organization.
George comes to RBMS with many years of experience in a variety of fields, which has prepared him to work with the business members of RBMS. He has 15 years of experience in hotel and property management, as well as real estate rentals and sales in the Coastal Delaware environment. He has also been a server in a Rehoboth Beach area restaurant, a hotel general manager and guest services agent, and a Rehoboth Beach condominium resident manager. In addition, George has been a Litigation Support Consultant in Washington, DC, responsible for marketing, design, management, and quality control of computer support projects for large-scale litigation. In this role he also supervised the creation and maintenance of databases for public and private sector clientele.
Born in Youngstown, Ohio, George attended Denison University. He met his wife, Peggy, in Rehoboth Beach and moved here permanently in 1990. He has one son, Andrew.
George is very active in community organizations and activities. He has volunteered with the Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce for the Sea Witch Festival, played Santa Claus at the annual RBMS Community Unity Dinner, and has volunteered with the annual film and jazz festivals.
Rehoboth Beach Main Street is thrilled to have George Yaksic as member of our team of staff and volunteers!
Looking for something to do on a May 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 Rehoboth in Bloom activities, the Cottage and Town Awards, Gumbo Crawl, Oldies Dance, and Margarita Crawl! A lot happening this Spring!
News from Rehoboth in Bloom
Cindy Lovett
May will be a crazy month for the Rehoboth in Bloom Crew. On May 1 and 2, Bloom volunteers will remove the pansies, turn over and refresh the soil, and add fertilizer. Then on May 8 and 9 we will plant new annuals. We have about 900 pots of flowers ordered from Peppers Greenhouses. The new Canalside Garden is getting 105 6” pots of annual flowers.
Again this year, we will be repotting 50 of our prettiest pansy plants to serve as centerpieces for the Oldies Dance. Speaking of which, the 2nd annual Oldies Dance will be held on Friday, May 19, from 7:00pm-10:00pm. Dine downtown, then come over and dance the night away with oldies from DJ Sky Brady! Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased at the Main Street office or online at www.downtownrb.com (scroll down). We cannot promise there will be tickets left at the door as we are selling only 350 tickets this year! We want to be sure to preserve the valuable dance floor! By the way, the meters will be working, but you can park for free after 5:00pm anywhere there is no meter.
Volunteer Recognition: Jeff Balk
Jerry Filbin
Our May volunteer shout-out is for Jeff Balk who joined our Communications Committee early this year. Since then, he’s been a frequent writer for this newsletter as well as a helpful and precise editor helping the team make our work more readable, more relevant, and more fun! And could we have gotten a better communications volunteer? Jeff is currently the General Manager of RBMS member Radio Rehoboth (99.1), as well as the voice of the community public radio station’s Daybreak Morning program, weekdays from 8:00am to 9:00am. Jeff also has a background as an executive editor and publisher for print media magazines. Oh my! What a catch for RBMS!
A Missouri native, Jeff first came to Rehoboth Beach in 2002, working on a feature article for a national Gay travel magazine, and fell in love with our community on the coast. It didn’t take him long to make the move to Delaware, relocating here in 2004. Late in 2006, Jeff acquired Snyder’s Candy and planted his feet in downtown Rehoboth. He brought innovation to the store, expanding the products sold to include games and toys—and that gave the business a real bump in sales! Jeff bought a local Gay magazine named The Gayzette in 2004, later re-naming it EXP Magazine to match his other publications. He sold EXP Magazine in 2007.
Jeff’s background in radio started early. When he was 15 years old, he was broadcasting on his high school’s low-power station. A real interest in radio and the fusion of broadcast with the internet surfaced again in 2016 when RadioRehoboth received its construction license from the FCC. In 2018, Rehoboth Radio built its first studio in town and the rest is history! Jeff’s involvement with the community doesn’t stop there. In 2021 he was elected to the Board of Directors for the Cape Henlopen Senior Center; Jeff currently serves as President of the Board as the Center moves forward on construction of a new facility. He also chairs Delaware’s 14th Representative District Democratic Committee. We are amazed that Jeff can find time to give a helping hand to Rehoboth Beach Main Street.
Thank you, Jeff, for all that you do for RBMS and for Rehoboth Beach!
Rehoboth Beach Main Street – Purple Parrot Grill Gumbo Crawl 2023
The 2023 Rehoboth Beach Gumbo Crawl was held on Saturday, April 29, 1:00pm–4:00pm. The Gumbo Crawl was co-hosted by the Purple Parrot Grill and RBMS. 1,000 hungry folks tasted the gumbo at each of the14 restaurants participating in the event:
Above the Dunes
101 S. Boardwalk
Aqua
57 Baltimore Avenue
Blackwall Hitch
52 Rehoboth Avenue
Café Azafrán
18 Baltimore Avenue
Cooter Brown’s
70 Rehoboth Avenue
Dos Locos
208 Rehoboth Avenue
Freddie’s Beach Bar
3 South First Street
Mariachi Restaurant
14 Wilmington Avenue
Purple Parrot
134 Rehoboth Avenue
Rehoboth Ale House
15 Wilmington Avenue
Rigby’s Bar & Grill
404 Rehoboth Avenue
The Pines
56 Baltimore Avenue
Tiki Jac’s Street Eats & Brews
71 Rehoboth Avenue
Zogg’s
1 Wilmington Avenue
The winners will be announced at a reception at the Purple Parrot Grill on xxxx, May X.
Cottage and Town Awards Competition Scheduled
Rehoboth Beach Main Street is hosting an Open House 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). The Open House will be combined with an RBMS Volunteer Appreciation event. 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, the end date for construction is August 1, 2023, at 5:00pm.
The award categories are:
1. Best new construction
2. Best renovation/reconstruction
3. Best landscape design
4. Best commercial construction
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.
2023 Rehoboth Beach Main Street’s Margarita Crawl
The 2023 RBMS Margarita Crawl is scheduled for June 3 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 Dano’s tequila margaritas, participating restaurants are also asked to prepare Mock Margaritas for Crawl-goers who would prefer a non-alcoholic version.
Ticket holders will have a chance to vote on the following categories:
· 1st, 2nd, & 3rd Best Margarita
· Most Unique/Creative Margarita
· Best Mock Margarita
The following restaurants are participating in the event:
· Above the Dunes
· Aqua Bar & Brill
· Arena’s Deli
· Blackwall at the Beach
· Blue Moon
· Café Azafrán
· Chesapeake & Maine
· Dos Locos
· Freddie’s Beach Bar
· Kiwi’s Tiki Hut and Kove
· Mariachi Restaurant
· Purple Parrot Grill
· Rehoboth Ale House
· Somewhere Rehoboth
· Victoria’s Restaurant
Tickets for the Margarita Crawl are $20—available at the RBMS Office, 509 Rehoboth Avenue, or by calling 302-227-2772.
See you on June 3rd!
RBMS Member Survey
Sandra Skidmore & Peter Pizzolongo
Current and former members of RBMS were sent a Member Survey in April. 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.
We thank the RBMS members who completed the survey. RBMS board and committee members and staff are reviewing the responses and incorporating the information received to ensure that the services we provide and programs we plan truly meet the needs of our members, residents, and visitors to Rehoboth Beach.
Survey Take-Aways include:
· Most responses were from retail businesses (53.57%), followed by restaurants (39.29%).
· Most respondents were established businesses. 50% had been in business more than 10 years, 25% had been in business between 5 and 10 years.
· The greatest business successes and strengths identified were customer-focused: customer satisfaction and engagement (85.71%), retaining existing customers (75%), and attracting new customers.
· The biggest challenges were getting staffing (70.37%) and issues related to rising costs (supply, labor, and inflation).
· The top business issues identified were transportation/parking for staff (75%) and staffing itself (71.43%).
· Changes that businesses have made to address challenges: reducing operating hours (42.31%) and reducing the number of employees (full time, part time, and seasonal).
The majority of comments cited a lack of affordable housing for staff and parking as concerns. Several also mentioned less “red tape,” better communication and cooperation, and more support for small business from city officials as improvements that would help downtown businesses.
RBMS is undertaking our first initiative to address the staffing concerns raised in the survey. We are creating a website page for members that will advertise available positions and drive potential applicants to the page via highlights on social media and upcoming issues of this newsletter. (See “Supporting RBMS Members’ Hiring Opportunities” article in this issue of the newsletter.)
We thank the RBMS board members who developed the survey—Sandra Skidmore and Rachel Macha, with input from other board members—as well as the RBMS members who responded to the survey!
Supporting RBMS Members’ Hiring Opportunities
Peter Pizzolongo
Based on a request from an RBMS business member and in response to challenges noted in the member survey distributed in April, we sent an email to all members with a proposal: Can we assist you in your efforts to fully staff your business during the 2023 Season? We are preparing an Opportunities Page on the RBMS website that will advertise your business’ job openings. We will highlight this page via our social media outlets and in upcoming issues of the RBMS Newsletter.
We know that not only is Rehoboth Beach a wonderful place to live and to visit, but it is also a wonderful place to work! We want to assist our business members in your efforts to gear up for the 2023 Season by connecting our citizens with our local business community to explore exciting employment opportunities available in downtown Rehoboth Beach.
We plan to post job opportunities on our Opportunities Page May 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 are asking our business members to please send text and logo by Friday, May 5, 2023.
Thank you for working with us on this effort! If you have any questions, please contact Dan Slagle at 302-227-2772.
May Is Small Business Month!
The Delaware Division of Small Business is celebrating Small Business Month by providing resources for businesses in our state.
Resources from the Division of Small Business:
· Register for our Social Media Webinar: The Marketing Mindset: Social Media for Small Business Success with Alexis Harris. May 5th at 9:00am. Registration is required. Download flyer here. (See story that follows)
Other Resources for Small Businesses:
Delaware Division of Small Business Webinar
The Delaware Division of Small Business is sponsoring a webinar—The Marketing Mindset: Social Media for Small Business Success. The webinar will be held on Friday, May 4, 9:00am, via Zoom. Join Alexis Harris, founder of First State Destinations, as she shares the value of social media marketing and how to drive business success with your online presence. Are you ready? Discover the benefits of using social media and how to attract your ideal customer and boost your bottom line with insights and proven concepts.
To register, go to Webinar Registration - Zoom . This webinar is for users with a Zoom account. New to Zoom? Sign up free.
SAVE THE DATE
Rehoboth Beach Farmers Market Opens
Tuesday, May 2, from 10:00am to 2:00pm
Grove Park
Market bags & produce bags available for purchase at entrance, rain or shine. Go to rbfarmersmarket.com for more information.
Boardwalk Stroll
Tuesdays and Thursdays, May 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, & 30
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.
Jackpot Bingo at Cape Henlopen Senior Center
Wednesday, May 3, 1:00pm
11 Christian Street
The doors open at 11:30am; Games start at 1:00pm. The cost is $20 per person and includes one game pack and specials. Additional games and food may be purchased. The public is welcome, but you must be over 18 to participate. “OUR COOKIE JAR” amount will be announced. Plan ahead and mark your calendars: Afternoon Jackpot Bingo is offered the first Wednesday of each month! For more information contact 302-227-2055.
May 5, 10:00am until 1:00pm
19335 Coastal Highway
Shred It & Forget It with WSFS and the Rehoboth - Dewey Chamber!
Rehoboth Beach Museum
The Hickman Street Gang
Friday, May 5, at 5:00pm or Saturday, May 6, at 2:00pm
511 Rehoboth Avenue
Come to the Rehoboth Beach Museum for a digital photo album of generations of Hickman Street Families.
Over a hundred years ago, a family gathered at “The Pittsburgh Cottage” on Hickman Street in Rehoboth Beach. Their friends came to visit. New cottages were built. Families and friends gathered together to form “The Hickman Street Gang.” Come hear the past and present stories of four families who still own their family properties and still gather on Hickman Street. Family members of different addresses will narrate the photo story of their home on and their ties to Hickman Street.
Due to the anticipated popularity of this program, we will have two show times and registration is required. For registration go to rehobothbeachmuseum.org.
Weekend of Compelling Ales & Spirits
Friday, May 5 to Sunday, May 7
Several Dogfish Head Locations
Dogfish Head’s Weekend of Compelling Ales & Spirits is back and more SPIRITED than ever!! Join the Dogfish staff for three days of off-centered goodness from May 5th-7th. Kick off the festivities with an all-you-care-to-eat-&-drink party hosted at Dogfish’s Rehoboth campus on Friday, May 5. Then, enjoy new beers, a special gin collaboration release, food pairings, and so much more on Saturday, May 6’s Walking & Tasting tour in Milton and finish off the weekend with Brunch at Chesapeake & Maine in Downtown Rehoboth. Tickets are on sale now! Visit www.Dogfish.com/wocaas for tickets and more information.
Clear Space presents "Next to Normal"
Friday, May 5 & Saturday, May 6 at 7:00pm and Sunday, May 7 at 2:00pm
Clear Space Theatre
20 Baltimore Avenue
Winner of three 2009 Tony Awards, including Best Musical Score and the 2010 Pulitzer Prize, Next to Normal was also chosen as "one of the year's ten best shows" by critics around the country, including The Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, Rolling Stone and The New York Times.
Dad's an architect; Mom rushes to pack lunches and pour cereal; their daughter and son are bright, wise-cracking teens, appearing to be a typical American family. And yet their lives are anything but normal because the mother has been battling manic depression for 16 years.
Next to Normal takes audiences into the minds and hearts of each character, presenting their family's story with love, sympathy, and heart.
For tickets, go to https://clearspacetheatre.my.salesforce-sites.com/ticket/#/events/a0S2M00000OhlDCUAZ or call 302-227-2270.
VIA to Host Music Bingo
Saturday, May 6, 7:00 to 9:00pm
VIA Clubhouse, 415 N. Boardwalk
DJ Rich Baum from DJ For All Occasions will lead the games. A $50 cash prize per game. Music bingo, aka “mingo,” is great fun for both music lovers and bingo buffs.
Doors open at 6:30pm. Admission is $20 which includes snacks, sweets, and five games of bingo. Beer, wine, soda, and water are available for purchase. To purchase tickets, go to rehobothbeachvia.org or buy at the door. For more information, call 302-670-1534 or 302-270-5430.
Philadelphia Gay Men's Chorus – BROLO
Saturday, May 6 at 4:00pm and 8:00pm
Elkins-Archibald Atrium at CAMP Rehoboth
37 Baltimore Avenue
The select ensemble of the PGMC presents musical selections from classical, Broadway, and contemporary genres, including a preview of their upcoming concert GAY ICON: The Music of Elton John. The show runs 75 minutes with no intermission. Seating is limited and it is expected that both shows will sell out. So, purchase your tickets now! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/philadelphia-gay-mens-chorus-brolo-tickets-595059698577
Rehoboth Beach Museum Presents Monday Activities for Children
Monday, May 8, 10:00am to 11:00am
511 Rehoboth Avenue
Designed for children ages 3–8, the programs will include a story-time and a hands-on craft activity to take home. Each Monday is a new story and craft (this event was also offered in March and April). Caregivers must remain on-site during the program. A $5 donation is suggested. Registration is required. To register, please visit www.rehobothbeachmuseum.org/events.
Free parking is available, and the museum is handicap accessible. Grove Park is adjacent to the museum and is an ideal spot to play or enjoy your lunch after the program.
Rehoboth Beach Museum
Photo ID Night 2
Monday, May 8 at 7:00pm
511 Rehoboth Avenue
The Rehoboth history buffs and historical society members are invited to join staff and volunteers as we display and discuss some photos in the museum’s collection that contain mysteries. Help us identify people and/or places in some photos that will be shown. These are photos in our collection that we would like to have as much information as possible for cataloguing. Participants are asked to bring their recollections and their enthusiasm for Rehoboth Beach history. All photos will be shown on a large screen for easy viewing.
Registration is required. Free parking is available, and the museum is handicap accessible. A $10 donation is suggested.
Comedy at Clear Space
Wednesday, May 10, 7:00pm
20 Baltimore Avenue
Clear Space is proud to announce it is adding stand-up comedy to its repertoire! Start off your Mother’s Day Week celebrations with a comedy show featuring a dad, 2 moms, and a confirmed bachelor! Please join Delaware’s Own Frank Vignola and his good friends Rich Carucci, Ruthie Parramore, and Emily Epstein White for an evening of family-friendly (mostly) stand-up comedy at Clear Space Theatre. Tickets are $20. For details, go to Buy: Comedy at Clear Space May 10, 2023 (salesforce-sites.com)
Rehoboth Beach History Lecture—Rehoboth's Railroad
Thursday, May 11, 7:15 to 8:30pm
Boardwalk Plaza Hotel, Sussex Room
2 Olive Avenue at the Boardwalk
Rehoboth’s railroad tracks extended up Rehoboth Avenue from 1884 through 1940—for 66 years! In the summer, in addition to two regularly scheduled daily trains, excursion trains of six to eight passenger train cars came into town with day trippers. Excursion trains brought visitors on Thursdays and weekend days, from the major cities, but also special trains would pick up folks along routes that stopped at a sequence of Sussex County towns.
Contact Paul at 302-893-9391 to reserve. $25.00/lecture. All proceeds support the “Railroad Era Rehoboth Avenue” diorama.
Enjoy dinner in the beautiful Victoria’s Restaurant (not included in lecture fee). Call Victoria’s at 302-227-0615 to make a 5:00 to 5:30 dinner reservation.
First Rites of Summer 2023 Volleyball Tournament
Saturday, May 13 to Sunday, May 14
Atlantic Jewelry Shop
Boardwalk on Laurel Street
Beach Volleyball Doubles, Triples, Sixes and Juniors. Play starts at 9:00am. Check out the fun. http://www.mavolleyball.org.
Rehoboth Arts League
Rehoboth Arts Festival
Saturday, May 20, 10:00 am to 5:00pm
Grove Park
(Rain Date: Sunday, May 21)
The Rehoboth Art League and the City of Rehoboth Beach have partnered again to present the City’s arts festival on Saturday, May 20, in downtown’s picturesque Grove Park, where artists will showcase and sell their work. Known for its annual events that draw discerning local collectors as well as those vacationing from the Baltimore/Washington, DC, area as well as Philadelphia and New York City, the Rehoboth Art League is proud to present this new event as another way to bring creative minds to coastal Delaware. Held just prior to Memorial Day weekend—the unofficial start of summer for this beach town—the event will fill Rehoboth Beach with tents of original, quality artwork, where Rehoboth Art League member artists can sell their work. https://www.rehobothartleague.org/events/2023-grove-park-festival/
Rehoboth in Bloom to Host Oldies Dance
Saturday, May 20, 7:00 to 10:00pm
Rehoboth Beach Convention Hall
229 Rehoboth Avenue
Dine downtown, then come on over and dance at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center! $25 per person. Buy in advance in person at the Rehoboth Beach Main Street office or online at www.downtownRB.com/Bloom. Beer, wine, coffee, snacks, and dessert. Questions? 302-521-4190
Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce
Annual Spring Sidewalk Sale
Friday, May 5, through Sunday, May 7, 10:00am to 8:00pm daily
(Store hours may vary)
Downtown Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, and Route One
The Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce announces the Annual Spring Sidewalk Sale. NOTE: THIS IS A RAIN OR SHINE EVENT. It is a weekend for deals and fabulous finds! Shopping in downtown Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, and Route One has never offered more merchandise at discount prices!
For more information, call the Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce at 302-227-2233 or visit the Chamber website at www.beach-fun.com.
Rehoboth Beach Library
May Events
226 Rehoboth Avenue
Super Saturday: Watercolors—Saturday, May 13
Come to the Children's and Teen spaces to try out some watercolor painting. This program is self-led and runs from 10:00am to 2:00pm. Come when you can and leave whenever you need to. All materials will be provided.
Walk to End Alzheimer’s
Saturday, September 23, 8:00am
Rehoboth Beach Bandstand
For more information, go to act.alz.org/rehobothbeach
Recurring & Weekly Events
· Start a Book Club at the Rehoboth Beach Public Library!
· Creative Movement Sunday Yoga: Every Sunday, 11:00am, 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 May Events at the Library: https://rehoboth.lib.de.us/
Editor’s Note
If you have any questions or comments, please contact me, Peter Pizzolongo, Newsletter Editor, at PeterRBMS@gmail.com.
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