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May 2024 Newsletter



 

Memorial Day

Jim Mease

 

It’s May, and we can feel the excitement building as Rehoboth Beach gets ready to host thousands of visitors as the 2024 beach season begins. Whether they come for a day, a week, or longer, they come to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf up and down the East Coast of the United States.

 

Since ancient times, May has represented spiritual and natural rebirth with life flourishing in various forms. By month’s end, we will celebrate Memorial Day on May 27th. Originally called Decoration Day, the commemoration dates back to the 1860s—when we traditionally honor those who have died serving in the United States Military. 

 

Today, Memorial Day also signals the unofficial start of summer, and it is a time that evokes images of hamburgers, hotdogs, and swimming pools. But before then, May has many more observances of interest to the American people, beginning with the month being designated as both Women's and Mental Health Month. Other May dates of celebration include Cinco de Mayo on May 5th—a day to celebrate the cultural achievements and experiences of people with a Mexican background living in the US. On May 10th we recognize America's favorite Seafood on National Shrimp Day. Americans eat more shrimp than any other seafood. On Sunday, May 12 we honor mothers, grandmothers, and great-grandmothers on Mother's Day, celebrating them for their influence in our lives and society. Other May dates of note include National Apple Pie Day on May 7th, which celebrates America's favorite dessert, and National Wine Day on May 25th, when we celebrate Wine, which has been part of our lives for thousands of years.

 

This month Rehoboth Beach Main Street celebrates some of our fantastic member businesses, starting with the newly opened Shorebreak Lodge at 10 Wilmington Avenue, a casual yet sophisticated modern restaurant serving American cuisine, and Above the Dunes at 101 S. Boardwalk, serving fresh seafood, raw bar, lobster rolls, burgers, and more while you enjoy sweeping views of the ocean.  If you seek libations, stop by Loves Liquors at 305 Rehoboth Avenue, where you can choose from an extensive selection of brand-name wines, spirits, and beer at reasonable prices. If you seek high-quality beach apparel, you should stop in at Rehoboth Breeze at their new location at 138 Rehoboth Avenue for all the latest in classic styles. 

 

You can read more about each of these member businesses later in this newsletter. And while you are out and about in downtown Rehoboth Beach, be sure and check out the beautiful plantings in the earth planters around downtown as the Rehoboth in Bloom volunteers have completed their annual transition from the winter pansy displays to a colorful assortment of annual flowers that will delight residents and tourists during this summer season.  And remember: The 2024 parking season begins this month with meters going into effect on May 15th. Please be mindful of increased bike and pedestrian traffic on our streets during this transitional period. 

 

Rehoboth Beach Mainstreet wishes all a great and safe month of May!

 

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 MG Fashion, Coral Cove, Spice and Tea Exchange, and Cilantro Cocina de Mexico as new members at the Bronze Partner level.

 

·        RBMS thanks Penny Lane for renewing at the Gold Partner level.

 

·        RBMS thanks The Ice Cream Store and Somewhere for renewing at the Silver Partner level.

·        RBMS thanks Robin Hood and Bomshell Boutique for renewing at the Bronze Partner Level.

 

 

 

Showcasing Rehoboth Businesses

Above The Dunes

Peter Beck

 



Above the Dunes is a restaurant that offers breathtaking views of the ocean and serves delicious food that will keep you coming back for more. It's the perfect place to unwind after a busy day on Rehoboth Avenue like my friend, his family, and I did last Halloween after the Seawitch parade.

 

I recommended Above the Dunes to my friends, who have two teenage daughters, because it's a great spot for families with picky eaters. The restaurant is located on Wilmington Avenue, just a few steps away from the boardwalk, and has large windows that provide an excellent view of the ocean. You can choose to eat indoors or, in warmer weather, on the outdoor deck.

 

When we arrived, the restaurant was packed, but thankfully we didn't have to wait long for a table. The spacious room has a beachy vibe with turquoise chairs, butcher block tables, and fun wicker lighting. The bar is also quite impressive, although not suitable for teenagers.

 

Our waiter was friendly and attentive, and our drinks arrived promptly. The menu has a lot of seafood options, but there are plenty of choices for picky eaters as well. The teenagers enjoyed the Margherita pizza and boardwalk burgers without the gouda cheese. At the same time, my friend and his wife savored the delicious crabcake sandwiches, which are some of the best in the Delmarva area. I always order the Caribbean Chicken Bowl, which is a generous portion of jerk chicken, pineapple, and brown rice.

 

We were so full that we skipped dessert, but we vowed to make Above the Dunes our traditional spot after the Seawitch Festival. 

 

FYI, the restaurant is also available for private parties, offering many special events throughout the year as well as dining specials during the off-season.  Be sure to stop in during the summer months for happy hour, every day from 1-5.  There will be great deals on food and drinks, and happy hour prices will be available throughout the entire restaurant.

 

Check out their website at https://abovethedunes.com/ to make a reservation and have a fabulous experience!

 

Rehoboth Breeze

Peter Beck

 



For many visitors and residents of our city, Rehoboth Breeze has been the go-to location to buy cool tee shirts, sweatshirts, and hats in a wide variety of designs and styles.  Shoppers need to know that Rehoboth Breeze has recently moved with great fanfare to a new and larger location. Now located at 138 Rehoboth Avenue, the ribbon-cutting ceremony occurred on March 24!  

 

The new shop is 400 square feet larger than the previous location.  Just across the street from its former home, the shop is chock full of colorful and upbeat merchandise for customers of all ages!

 

Rehoboth Breeze is a family-owned business that has had a significant presence on Rehoboth Avenue for 39 years!  Owners Keith and John Riley-Spillane moved to Rehoboth Beach in 2007 from the Lehigh Valley with their two young kids.  The first business Keith and John owned was Wings to Go.  Several years later, they opened their tee-shirt shop, thinking it would provide an excellent option for employment for their kids when they got older.

 

Interestingly, this is the third incarnation of the “Breeze” moniker for the store! During the second incarnation, called It’s a Breeze, Keith worked for a short while at the shop and was friends with the manager.  He knew that the owners of the shop were planning to close the business, so Keith got right to work looking for space, ordering merchandise, and establishing communication with the various vendors who make Rehoboth Breeze special.

 

Comfort Color manufactures most of the garments on display at Rehoboth Breeze.  The company creates "relaxed apparel that people love to live in”.  Comfort Color t-shirts are 100% preshrunk cotton, and all sweatshirts are an 80% cotton / 20% polyester blend.  Note that all the tee shirts sold are made to order for the shop!  Additionally, there is no printer at Rehoboth Breeze for making custom tee shirts, which might be significantly safer!

 

Rehoboth Breeze sells various interesting and colorful sweatshirts and tees from companies such as Buddy by the Sea, Harbor Design, Sea Dog, 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.  39 years in Rehoboth.

 

New this year to the store is the Kenny Dana line of exciting, bright, colorful island styles of women’s casual clothing!  Incorporating advanced technology, the Kenny Dana line offers sun-protective clothing that the modern woman will truly appreciate on a hot and humid summer day!

 

Current hours for the store are Thursday and Friday from 10:00 am–2:00 pm, Saturday from 10:00 am–5:00 pm, Sunday from 10:00 am–3:00 pm, and Monday from 10:00am-2:00pm.

 

However, if you are eager to make a purchase, don’t fret! Check out the Rehoboth Breeze online store!  Open 24-7, shoppers can make exciting purchases from the comfort of their home through their website, Beach Shirts, Sweatshirts, & Souvenirs Catalog | Rehoboth Breeze.

 

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.

 

 

Shorebreak Lodge: Making a Return to Rehoboth’s Dining Scene Under Ben And Diane Winiarczyk’s Leadership

Dan Slagle

 



Ben and Diane Winiarczyk are the dynamic duo behind one of Rehoboth Beach’s most exciting restaurants – Shorebreak Lodge, at 10 Wilmington Avenue. Ben had a vision of owning his own restaurant, and there has always been something special to them about Shorebreak Lodge.  The Winiarczyks’ vision was realized when they purchased the restaurant earlier this year.  They spent some time refreshing the space and refining the menu to honor its culinary history before opening on March 15th.

 

The menu is familiar to the guests who have dined at Shorebreak over the years, with notable additions of a salmon entree, vegan entrée, and weekly fish specials.  One of the elements that makes the Shorebreak menu unique is the option to order half or full-size entrees, which was extended throughout the menu's Gather, Hunt, & Fish sections. 

 

Ben has been bartending in downtown Rehoboth since 2019 and has won several cocktail awards, most recently First Place at the War at the Shore. The new cocktail program at Shorebreak presents carefully crafted cocktails based on classics with unique twists to challenge the guests with new experiences.

 

Beyond the return of Shorebreak, the Winiarczyks created a place where locals and visitors can comfortably gather to enjoy fine food, crafted cocktails, and excellent service. “We look forward to welcoming you in, and our team is excited to share the new Shorebreak experience with you,” said Diane. “It's a restaurant that has history in the community and we are proud to honor that history while celebrating the present and embracing the future.”

 

Shorebreak Lodge offers high-quality fresh and seasonal menu items, hand-crafted cocktails, an eclectic wine list, and exceptional service in a comfortably chic and welcoming setting.  Reservations can be made through the website www.shorebreaklodge.com or directly with OpenTable. 302-227-1007,

shorebreakrb@gmail.com. .-Dan Slagle

 

Sip into Summer with Loves Liquors!

Colleen Evans

 



What’s not to love about a visit to a boutique wine shop?  No matter what type of summer wine you like to sip, chances are you’ll find something to enjoy at Loves Liquors, at  305c Rehoboth Avenue. The shop also offers spirits such as bourbon, gin, vodka, tequila, and rum, and a diverse selection of local IPAs. Whether you prefer crisp whites, refreshing roses, or vibrant reds, Loves Liquors offers a curated array of top options that are simply unmissable for the summer season. It’s time to delve into the light, refreshing wines of summer.

 

Owners Andres Tremols and Michael Reamy asked team staff member Maggie Ellis, and distributor Laura Lamprecht, President/Owner of Specialty Wines & Liquors, to spill which bottles they’re enjoying this beach season, along with some food pairing recommendations. All wines are available at Loves Liquors as well as at fine dining establishments in the heart of sunny downtown Rehoboth Beach.

 

Here are a few of their favorites:

 

·        Ramon Canals ONNA 100% Xarel.lo, Pendes, SP

·        Desparada, Sau Blanc, NYX, Hapy Canyon, Santa Barbara, CA

·        Fabliest Chardonnay, Edna Valley, CA

·        Hendry Estate Chardonnay, Barrel Fermented, Napa Vly., CA

·        Union Sacre, Pinot Blanc, Santa Lucia Highlands, CA

·        Barter & Trade, Sauvignon Blanc, Columbia Valley, WA

·        Field Recordings SKINS, Orange White Wine Blend, Central Coast, CA

·        Dom DuPay Bandol Rose, Bandol, Provence, FR                           

·        Atlantique Sauvignon Blanc, Loire Valley, FR

After 40 plus years of nursing, Maggie Ellis retired, but had always been interested in growing her knowledge of quality wines. She now “has the best job I could ask for at Loves Liquors.”  Here are a few of Maggie Ellis’ favorites:

 

For summer whites on the lighter side there’s Onna from Mont Paral:  a unique wine made from the Xarel-lo grape better known in the production of the Spanish sparkling cava.  Crisp, aromatic, and acidic, tasting citrus and stone fruits, it is the perfect aperitif; it also pairs well with shellfish and summer salads.  It is served very cold, like its sparkling counterpart.

 

Rosés, like white wines, come in different weights, often suggested by the depth of their color, though color sometimes reflects the skins of the grape blend used.  Maggie’s two favorites are on the lighter side:  Mont Paral Rosé Cava, a dry, refreshing sparkling wine which tastes of citrus, strawberry, and almond.  Its “vintage” designation means that all the grapes were harvested from the same year.   Likewise, Foncalieu Piquepoul Rosé is a pale pink color, dry and acidic, with a touch of rose petal on the nose, flavors of citrus and red berry. Both these gems are best served very cold (38-45 degrees), as an aperitif, or with fresh green salads, summer rice dishes, shrimp, or lobster.

 

Laura Lamprecht, of Specialty Wines & Liquors, says that her first encounter with the Loves Liquors owners, Andres and Michael, was nothing short of brilliant fireworks. Their mutual instant wine-speak and passion was equivalent to a lunar eclipse. Their dedication to quality, and small, crafted brands was a perfect fit—a partnership on so many levels, including the journey of sharing the love and knowledge of wine with Rehoboth Beach customers.

 

With her dual degrees in journalism & RTF, and a tenure in the food & beverage industry, Laura also believes that her destiny is in creating a wine culture for signature restaurants to develop their brand experience—based solely on the synergistic collaboration of culinary delights, paired to perfection with an elixir to the Gods… wine!

 

Laura”s tag line is “Indulge your palate, feed your soul,” which expresses her journey with food & wine. Some of Laura’s favorites, which are featured on wine lists at most of Rehoboth Beach’s top dining venues, are also available for sale at Loves Liquors.

 

A few examples include:

 

·        LA FABLE, with their authentic French cuisine, features Truite Almandine pan seared rainbow trout, beurre blanc, chopped marcona almonds, and haricots verts, perfectly paired with Fableist Chardonnay.

·        SAZIO offers Sea scallops, fennel dusted, risotto, spinach, apple fennel salad with Valencia orange reduction, paired with Desparada Sauvignon Blanc NYX.

·        SALT AIR Kitchen & Bar’s famous shrimp fry cornflake encrusted shrimp, purple cabbage slaw, boardwalk fries, cornbread, salt air cocktail sauce, paired with Union Sacre Pinot Blanc.

·        STINGRAY Sushi Bar & Asian Grill’s signature Caramelized Salmon, miso sweet potato puree, tobacco onions, Mandarin lemon cream, paired with Barter & Trade Sauvignon Blanc.

 

Laura also offers her tips for picking the perfect summer sippers: 

1.   Bubbles and sparkling wines are fun, fresh, and quenching, they have endless pairing options and are always a celebration in a glass.

2.   Rosé all day as the saying goes, dry, fruited, perfect acidity makes for beautiful seasonal cuisine perfection.

3.   Light reds with minimal tannins keep the pace for seasonal cuisine, a diehard Cabernet fan can still enjoy a softer red with food and not feel the heat from the bigger bolder fall winter reds.

4.   Coastal influenced white wines with perfect salinity, fruit, depth, & richness. Unoaked whites are all the rage, simply put you get the genetics from the grapes without the oak influence, Chablis are the quintessential hierarchy of white wine without oak interference.

 

According to Tremols, “Summer memories are truly special, whether you’re enjoying time with family and friends, experiencing a night out at one of Rehoboth Beach’s restaurants, or relaxing at home with that perfectly chilled glass of wine. Please explore Loves Liquors recommendations and enjoy your Coastal Delaware summer to the fullest.”

 

 

 

 

 

News From Rehoboth in Bloom

 

April Showers Bring May Flowers!

Cindy Lovett

 



Rehoboth in Bloom had a busy April with a meeting of the team leads followed up two weeks later with an All-Crew event at the Rehoboth Library. Removal of the winter pansies will occur on April 29 and 30; the plan is to plant fresh, new summer annuals on May 6 and 7. We have 8 new planters to place this year; 3 at Rehoboth Avenue and Canal Street as you come into town which will replace the sad bushes that were there. Then 5 planters will be in front of City Hall, adding some color to the entrance. With the new planters and the Canalside Garden, we are now approaching 1,000 flowers which will planted by the teams!

 

 

2025 Bloomin’ Dance Party Announced!

 

Ladies and gents, Rehoboth in Bloom has big news, BIG NEWS!! Our next Bloomin' Dance Party is already scheduled for Friday, March 28, 2025. The BIG NEWS is that The Funsters will be providing the tunes!!!!! We are all so excited, and we appreciate how the band will help us raise money for our program. Not only is the 11-piece band fabulous, but they are also all super-talented local musicians!! Tickets go on sale in 2025: Save the Date!!

 

 

NEWS FROM RBMS 

 

Congratulations to Main Street Volunteer Paul Swiderski

 



Congratulations to Main Street volunteer Paul Swiderski for being selected for the small business spotlight by the weekly Delaware Division of Small Businesses newsletter.

 

Paul started his company Microbiz Accounting Financial and Business Services in 2003 to focus on an underserved group: small businessesThis full-service accounting firm specializes in helping microbusinesses and their owners achieve their full potential. They help their clients with bookkeeping/accounting, payroll, and tax preparation services. Their firm also helps new and future entrepreneurs with forming their LLCs/corporations and developing business plans.

 

Paul currently serves on the RBMS Economic Vitality Committee! Thanks, Paul, for all you do!

Ribbon-cutting at Odysea

 



Patrick Turner and Mary Anne Callaghan are excited to join the local Rehoboth Beach business community as the new owners of Odysea...Destination Beach.  RBMS joined with Odysea for a ribbon-cutting on a windy Saturday morning, April 13. The store, in existence for more than two decades, but now under new ownership, offers many coastal-inspired household items and artwork, but is perhaps best known for the unique Fred Pie artwork that is showcased on many of its t-shirts and sweatshirts.

 

 

Gumbo Crawl Winners Announced

 

RBMS and the Purple Parrot Grill hosted the annual Gumbo Crawl on April 6. 25 restaurants participated and provided scrumptious gumbo to 1,000 participants. On Tuesday, April 9, RBMS and Purple Parrot Grill held the first progressive award ceremony for winners of the Gumbo Crawl. It was great to visit the winners in their own restaurants and present their awards to them.

 



The 2024 Gumbo Crawl winners are:

· 1st Place: Blue Moon

· 2nd Place: Above the Dunes

· 3rd Place: Mariachi Restaurant

 

These restaurants certainly know how to bring the flavor!

 

The progressive award ceremony began at Mariachi, then moved on to Above the Dunes and the Blue Moon.

 

Congrats to the winners and thanks to all the restaurants and participants for making this year’s Gumbo Crawl a success!

News on the RBMS Website

 

We’ve created a new page on the RBMS Website, under the About RBMS tab on the homepage: RBMS Information. This page includes information that was provided to the City of Rehoboth Beach Board of Commissioners during a recent budget meeting. “Rehoboth Beach—the Downtown Experience” presents the RBMS board members; an analysis of our membership (i.e., number of members by business category, such as restaurants, retail shops, hotels, galleries, etc.); the work of Rehoboth in Bloom volunteers; stats on the RBMS website, newsletter, and social media; RBMS’ 2023 accomplishments; the planned revitalization of the downtown post office; events planned for 2024; and more!  Check it out!

 

 

RBMS’ Reach via Social Media, the Website, and the Newsletter

 

·        Facebook reach for March was 61,851, almost twice as many views as the previous month.

·        Instagram reach for March was approximately 15,320, higher than the previous month.

·        The top web page views year to date are the webcam, off-season specials, events calendar, shop directory, about RBMS, and the March newsletter.

·        Instagram: Top views in March were Double Dippers, Lilla Cavallo, Robin Hood Restaurant, Shorebreak Lodge, Lupo Italian Kitchen, Arena’s, and The Federal.

·        Facebook: Top views in March were Arena’s, Robin Hood Restaurant, Double Dippers, Egg, The Federal, Indigo, and Lupo Italian Kitchen.

 

April Newsletter Stats

·        Emailed version: Sent 1,794; 63% open rate; 7% click rate

o   Average rates for non-profit member organizations: 42% open rate, 2.75% click rate

·        Website version: 353 views

 

 

Looking for Something to Do in May?

 



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’ Runway ’24: A Fun Time for All!

 

Runway 2024: A Weekend of Fashion Events kicked off on Thursday, April 18th, and ran through Sunday, April 21st, culminating in the grand finale: The most glamorous formal runway fashion show of the season, which featured trendsetting looks from our fashionable RBMS member retailers. The fashion show was held at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center. Champagne, appetizers, dessert, and a fabulous runway show were enjoyed by more than 200 attendees!

 

Participating retailers were:

 

·        Bad Hair Day?

·        Beach Essentials

·        Bomshell Boutique

·        Boutique W

·        Charm City Run

·        Coral Cove

·        Cotton Club

·        Grace Boutique

·        Lilla Cavello

·        Pineapple Princess Swimwear

·        Pink Turtle

·        Quiet Storm Surf Shop

·        Something Comfortable

·        South Moon Under

·        Top It Off

 

Participants also enjoyed shopping opportunities and special events. Using the YappApp, participants were able to view the schedule of events, participating stores, and sponsors—and plan their weekend’s activities.

 

We extend a special thanks to our generous sponsors:

 

·        Above the Dunes

·        Bad Hair Day?

·        Big Fish Charitable Foundation

·        Dogfish Head Brewing & Eats

·        Downtown Blues

·        Grace Boutique

·        Schell Brothers

·        WSFS Bank

·        WRDE (Media Sponsor)

 

 

Volunteer Recognition: Rehoboth in Bloom Volunteers

Cindy Lovett

 






In this issue we celebrate the dedicated Rehoboth in Bloom volunteers!

 

Rehoboth in Bloom is starting season six, and we can’t believe how fast time is going.  On April 24 we had our kick-off lunch meeting. Sixty-two of the Bloom crew enjoyed lunch and lots of catching up with their team.  We have 12 new members this year and 15 who will reach their 5-year anniversary.  We have come so far since that first meeting in February of 2019: 111 planters, 3 gardens, 11 teams, and 72 volunteers!!  The commitment by the teams to their planters is incredible.  We could not do it without the background help of the amazing volunteers at Rehoboth Beach Main Street.

 

 

 

 

 

Main Street America News

 

From the Main Spotlight: Announcing the 2024 Main Street America Designated Communities and Collective Impact of Local Programs in 2023

 

In the April 24 issue of the Main Spotlight, Main Street America proudly announces that 1,188 programs have achieved designations as Main Street America programs in recognition of their commitment to preservation-based economic development and community revitalization through the Main Street Approach™. 

 

The 2024 network of designated Main Street members includes 800 programs that earned Accredited status — the top designation tier — for demonstrating a proven track record of achieving outcomes in alignment with the Main Street Approach and exceptional performance in the six standards of community evaluation. Additionally, 388 programs have received Affiliate status for showing a strong commitment to the Main Street model and creating meaningful improvements in their communities. (Note: Rehoboth Beach Main Street is an Accredited Main Street America program.)

 

In 2023, Main Street America programs generated $5.68 billion in local reinvestment, helped open 6,630 net new businesses, facilitated the creation of 35,162 net new jobs, catalyzed the rehabilitation of 10,556 historic buildings, and leveraged 1,664,763 volunteer hours. On average, for every dollar that a Main Street program spent to support their operations, $18.03 of new investment was generated back into their downtown and commercial corridor communities.* Learn more about the collective impact of the Main Street Movement here.​“We are incredibly excited to celebrate this year’s 1,188 designated Main Street America programs, and their remarkable efforts to reenergize their local economies and public spaces,” said Main Street America President and CEO Erin Barnes. ​“Main Street leaders are visionaries that see things that no one else can see and create the future world we all want to live in. The size and impact of our network demonstrates that great things happen when visions are realized through strategic, grassroots collaboration.” 

 

Each program’s performance was evaluated through assessments conducted by the organization’s personnel and board of directors, and their Coordinating Program, which works in partnership with Main Street America to identify local programs that meet rigorous national community evaluation standards. These standards provide the Main Street America network with a strong foundational framework to review progress, recognize strengths, understand trends, and identify strategies that move Main Street programs forward. To quality for designation, communities must demonstrate a strong commitment to the Main Street model, meet a set of baseline requirements, and achieve outcomes in six areas: broad-based community commitment to revitalization; inclusive leadership and organizational capacity; diversified funding and sustainable program operations; strategy-driven programming; preservation-based economic development; and demonstrated impact and results. Learn more about the framework, standards, and designation here.

 

*Main Street America (MSA) leads an inclusive, impact-driven movement dedicated to reenergizing and strengthening older and historic downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts through place-based economic development and community preservation. MSA works in collaboration with thousands of local partners and grassroots leaders across the nation who share the MSA commitment to advancing shared prosperity, creating resilient economies, and improving quality of life. 

 

Since its founding in 1980, the MSA network has helped to generate over $100 billion in local reinvestment, rehab 325,000 buildings, create 700,000 new jobs, and start 160,000 new businesses in over 2,000 communities. Main Street America is a subsidiary of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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, 1:00 pm–4:00 pm, 1,000 people will be strolling downtown Rehoboth Beach to taste 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:

 

·        Above the Dunes

·        Arena’s Deli & Bar

·        Aqua Bar & Grill

·        Blackwall Hitch

·        Blue Moon

·        Chesapeake & Maine

·        Cilantro Cocina de Mexico

·        Claws Seafood House

·        DiFebo’s Rehoboth

·        Dos Locos Restaurant

·        Downtown Blues

·        Fins Ale House & Raw Bar

·        Freddie’s Beach Bar & Restaurant

·        Kiwi’s Tiki Hut

·        Mariachi Restaurant

·        Purple Parrot Grill

·        Rehoboth Ale House

·        Shorebreak Lodge

·        Sirocco Food & Drink

·        Somewhere

·        Summer House

·        Sunny Bay Café

·        The Pines

·        Victoria’s Restaurant

 

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!

 

 

 

City Update

 

City Update Rehoboth Beach Hires Taylour Tedder as New City Manager*

 

During a special meeting on April 8, city commissioners voted unanimously in favor of hiring Taylour Tedder, who has been the city manager of Boulder City NV since August 2021. His first day on the job in Rehoboth Beach should be on or around Wednesday, May 15.

 

Mayor Stan Mills said Tedder is fiscally savvy, experienced in the day-to-day operations of a destination community, enthusiastic and energetic, and a fantastic communicator.

"Taylour is extremely qualified. His experience and skills align well with the challenges and opportunities that exist in Rehoboth Beach," said Mills in a prepared statement.

Tedder is replacing former City Manager Laurence Christian, who left the city in November after roughly 10 months on the job. Christian replaced former City Manager Sharon Lynn, who stepped down in May 2022 after nearly a decade in her position.

 

Following the meeting, Lynne Coan, city spokesperson, said Tedder's annual salary will be $250,000. Christian received a starting salary of $160,000 but received a prorated amount for his 10 months.  Then, Tedder was hired as a consultant at $120 an hour until the city found a new city manager. Lynn's beginning salary was $120,000, but had risen to $141,250 by the time she left.

 

Tedder is an International City/County Management Association credentialed manager and an International Economic Development Council certified economic developer. He has a Master of Public Administration degree from Wichita State University and a bachelor's degree in economics from Emporia State University. Prior to Boulder City,

 

Tedder was assistant city manager in Leavenworth KS, a suburb of Kansas City MO with more than 36,000 residents.

 

*This story was adapted from a Cape Gazette article written by Chris Flood, published on April 8, 2024.

 

Rehoboth Beach Bandstand Summer Concert Series

 

Get ready to rock Rehoboth Beach this summer!  The Rehoboth Beach Summer Concert Series lineup is here—and it’s incredible! From Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day, enjoy FREE live music very Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 8:00 pm.

Each year, over 40 bands are selected to perform in an open-air concert venue just steps from the beach. The goal of the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand is to provide entertainment through music, movies, variety acts, and other local, regional, and national performances.

 

The Rehoboth Beach Bandstand is not just a venue for entertainment, it is also a cultural and historical landmark. The Bandstand is a source of pride for the community and has been a staple of Rehoboth Beach for decades. Thousands of visitors and residents have fond memories of attending concerts and events at the Bandstand, and it continues to be a popular destination for generations of families.

There’s something for everyone: blues, rock, country, tributes, originals—even Celtic and World music!  Here’s a taste of what you can expect:

·        Memorial Day Weekend kicks off with Mike Hines & the Look, US Navy Band Country Current, and Shot Thru the Heart (Bon Jovi tribute).

·        Highlights include The Devil’s Brigade (Celtic rock), US Navy Band Commodores on July 4th, The Whiskey Crows (rock & soul), Scott Tourney & The Spark (bluesy roots), Red Dirt Revolution (country), and Sensational Soul Cruisers (Motown). There’s also a Billy Joel Tribute: We May Be Right.

·        The season finale on August 31st brings Sons of Pirates & the Big Buffett Beach Band for the best of beach music!

For the full lineup and descriptions, go to Rehoboth Beach Bandstand summer concert series.

 

 

Save The Date

 

For full descriptions of the events listed below, go to the Save-the-Date page on the RBMS Website.

 

Wednesday, 5/1, Doors Open at 11:30am.  Games Start at 1:00pm.

Cape Henlopen Senior Center

11 Christian Street

 

Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, Route 1

Friday, 5/3, 10:00am to Sunday, 5/5, 8:00pm

 

Friday, 5/3, And Saturday, 5/4, 7:00pm, Sunday, 5/5, 2:00pm

Thursday, 5/9, 11:00am; Friday, 5/10, and Saturday 5/11, 7:00pm; Sunday, 5/12, 2:00pm

Friday, 5/17, and Saturday, 5/18, 7:00pm; and Sunday, 5/19, 2:00pm

20 Baltimore Avenue

 

Saturday, 5/4, 11:00am–3:00pm

Rehoboth Beach Convention Center

229 Rehoboth Avenue

 

Saturday, 5/4, 4:00pm and 8:00pm

Camp Rehoboth’s Elkins Archibald Atrium

37 Baltimore Avenue

 

Tuesday, 5/7, 10:00am to 2:00pm

Grove Park

501 Rehoboth Avenue

 

Thursday, 5/9, 8:30am–2:00pm

11 Christian Street

 

Rehoboth Beach History Lecture Series:  Horn’s Pavilion

Thursday, 5/9, 7:15pm–8:30pm

Sussex Room, Boardwalk Plaza

2 Olive Avenue

 

To reserve a seat, call Paul At 302-893-9391 or e-mail Paul Paul@Pdlovett.Com

 

Saturday, 5/11, 11:00am To 4:00pm

37 Baltimore Avenue

 

Saturday, 5/11, 8:00am Through Sunday, 5/12, 8:00pm

Check-In between 7:45am and 8:30am at Atlantic Jewelry Shop

Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk & Laurel Street

 

Meals On Wheels Lewes-Rehoboth:  Top Chef of the Culinary Coast

Wednesday, 5/15, 6:00–8:30pm

136 Dagsworthy Street

Dewey Beach, De

 

Thursday, 5/16, 8:30–10:00am

11 Christian Street

 

Saturday, 5/18, 10:00am–5:00pm (Rain or Shine)

Grove Park

 

 

From River to Ocean – Textile Work by Anne Bellas

Friday, 5/10, -  Sunday, 6/9 (Opening Reception Friday, 5/10, 5;00–7:00pm)

Corkran Gallery, 12 Dodds Lane

 

The Everyday – Oil Paintings by Michael Mcsorley

Friday, 5/10, - Sunday, 6/9 (Opening Reception Friday, 5/10, 5:00–7:00pm)

Ventures Gallery, 12 Dodds Lane

 

Sea Change – Oil Paintings by Stephen Estrada

Friday, 5/10, - Sunday, 6/9, (Opening Reception Friday, 5/10, 5:00–7:00pm)

Tubbs Gallery, 12 Dodds Lane

 

Sitting Pretty:  A Collections Showcase

Friday, 5/10, - Sunday, 7/14, (Opening Reception Friday, 5/10, 5;00–7:00pm)

Dewitt Gallery, 12 Dodds Lane

 

Self-Taught:  Work from Ral’s Fine Art Collection Highlighting Self-Trained Artists

Friday, 5/10, - Sunday, 7/14, (Opening Reception Friday, 5/10, 5:00–7:00pm)

Homestead, 12 Dodds Lane

 

“When The Angels Left the Old Country”

Online Event

Wednesday, 5/22, 5:00pm

 

Friday-Sunday, 5/24–5/26, 8:00pm–9:15pm

Rehoboth Beach Bandstand

Rehoboth Avenue and The Boardwalk 

 

Honoring Women Veterans

Monday, 5/27, 9:30am

Rehoboth Beach Bandstand

Rehoboth Avenue and The Boardwalk

 

Memorial Day Ceremony

Monday, 5/27, 11:00am—Noon

Rehoboth Beach Bandstand

Rehoboth Avenue and The Boardwalk

 

Thursday, 5/30, Friday, 5/31, And Saturday, 6/1, 7:00pm, Sunday, 6/2, 2:00pm

20 Baltimore Avenue

 

Dine Out with the Bears

Thursday, 5/16, 5:00–8:00pm

Kiwi’s Kove

101 N. Boardwalk

 

Bear Beer Bust

Sunday, 5/19, 2:00pm–8:00pm

Aqua Grill

57 Baltimore Avenue

 

226 Rehoboth Avenue

 

For a full calendar of events during May at the library, please visit Https://Delawarelibraries.Libcal.Com/Calendar/Rehoboth?Cid=9418&T=M&D=2024-05&Cal=9418&Inc=0

 

511 Rehoboth Avenue

 

For information on events during May at the Rehoboth Beach Museum, please visit:  Https://Rehobothbeachmuseum.Org/Index.Php/Calendar 

 

 

 

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