November 2022 Newsletter
Fall into the Holiday Season
As we move into the last quarter of the year our thoughts turn to preparations for the chilly weather we know is coming. Fall arrives changing our landscape from a summer pallet of green to one that also includes vibrant reds, yellows, and browns. The air turns crisper and cool, reminding us that a new season is here, and winter won't be far behind. The Sea Witch has once again made her way down the Avenue accompanied by a menagerie of ghosts, goblins, and ghouls of every imaginable size and color. We have eaten our fill of Halloween candy and are enjoying pumpkin spice flavoring in everything from coffee and tea to cakes and donuts. As we Fall into the Holiday Season we will shop and gather with friends and family as we celebrate the November-December holidays and toast the year just past—happy that we have weathered the past year as we look forward to what a new year will bring. So, as we begin our holiday shopping and dining, we at Rehoboth Beach Main Street want to spotlight some of our many member businesses that will be glad to see you this season. Who doesn't like a piece of jewelry from the beach? The deals at JEWELSTAR are among the best Rehoboth has to offer. The shop is fabulous, clean, inviting, and always ready to help you find just the perfect piece at a price that is right—whether it be for you or someone special on you holiday gift list. Another great gift idea is scented candles. With over 100 candle scents to sniff Shining Sol Candle Company is sure to have just the scent you need. While there, try your hand at making your own candle or check out the most unique Artisan candles around, such as Mermaid Cove, Dragon's Lair, Them Bones, and more. It wouldn't feel like holiday shopping without a trip to The Christmas Spirit! With an ever-changing assortment of decorations, including Christopher Radko ornaments and many more, you will always find just what you're looking for here. After a day of shopping, you may want to consider an organic natural spa experience. You can find it at The Avenue Apothecary & Spa, where they offer a wide array of holistic facials, therapeutic massages, seasonal body treatments, natural nail services, and more. When it comes to dining, your choices are many, and Salt Air offers a fun, cozy bar with creative libations, great wines, and micro brews on tap. Be sure to check out the locally inspired menu featuring fresh seasonal produce, sustainable seafood, and organic meats and poultry. It's the perfect setting to put you in the holiday spirit! And after a full day of shopping in downtown Rehoboth Beach be sure and stop by Archie’s Ice Cream. Well known for its great service and friendly staff, this place is always serving good ice cream and perfectly cooked waffles, in addition to strawberry lemonade, fresh juices, and coffee. These and more shops are waiting to serve you as you whittle down your gift list this holiday season. They will help to put the spirit of the holidays into your step while enjoying all that Rehoboth Beach has to offer. So, Fall into the Holiday Season and enjoy this special time of the year. You can read more about the spotlighted businesses later in this newsletter. Please consider Rehoboth Beach a place that can satisfy all your holiday needs. 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 in2soles and One Spirit Massage Studio as new members! RBMS thanks Rehoboth Breeze and Purple Parrot Grill for renewing at the Yellow Partner level! RBMS thanks Boardwalk Plaza Hotel, Victoria’s Restaurant, and the Sea Shell Shop for renewing at the Green Partner level! RBMS thanks Grace Boutique, Sunny Bay Café, and Thrasher’s French Fries for renewing as RBMS members! For information about levels and benefits of RBMS membership, go to Join | Rehoboth Beach Main Street (downtownrb.com) Showcasing Rehoboth Beach Businesses Archie’s Ice Cream Offers Two Locations & Even More Flavors! Mike Edelin
The original Archie’s Ice Cream is located on the south side of Rehoboth Avenue, at the entrance of Penny Lane. The second location is almost directly across the street, on the north side of Rehoboth Avenue. Both locations offer 23 homemade flavors of ice cream and five lemonades! There are plenty of machines that make the ice cream in-house, with fruit-flavored ice creams such as strawberry and black raspberry being made with real fruit. There are some great fall flavors to indulge in such as coffee, maple walnut, and the infamous butter pecan. Archie’s also offers three soft-serve ice cream flavors, vanilla, chocolate, and twist. Have we mentioned the lemonade? The homemade lemonade comes in regular, mint, strawberry, blueberry, raspberry, and blackberry flavors. During peak seasonal times the store sometimes goes through 600 lemons in a day, according to owner Ercan Sanli. If you are craving some old-fashioned, handmade, hand-dipped ice cream or freshly squeezed lemonade to order, find your Fall fix at Archie’s in downtown Rehoboth Beach! Phone: 302-227-2462. Avenue Apothecary and Spa Jerry Filbin
If you are ready to spoil yourself or someone you love, the Avenue Apothecary and Spa is the place you want to visit while you are in Rehoboth Beach. This is the lap of luxury whether you want manicures or pedicures, revitalizing body treatments that include body scrub and Stone Crop Body Oil, or even a Stone Crop Body Wrap treatment. Other restorative treatments include a chill body treatment featuring the regenerative properties of water-soluble cannabinoid body oil or a nourishing body treatment for sensitive skin that uses whipped sugar and oatmeal body polish and vitamin E and agave infused oil. And what’s a trip to the spa without a massage? Avenue Apothecary and Spa features a variety of modalities including herbal therapeutic massage, muscle recovery and deep tissue massage, Nirvana stress relief massage, prenatal rest and renewal treatment, and the use of herbal poultices, just to name a few of the offerings. Avenue Apothecary and Spa also offers a variety of personalized spa packages including couples massage, a 4-hour Bliss At the Apothecary package that includes an exfoliating peel facial, a custom therapeutic massage, manicure, and pedicure. This is just a sample of amazing experiences designed to revitalize, relax, and de-stress a spa visitor. Avenue Apothecary and Spa is located at 110A Rehoboth Avenue. Phone: 302-227-5649 (info@avenuedayspa.com). JEWELSTAR Peter Beck
The Penny Lane Mall, located just a few steps away from the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, is renowned for its unique European, open-air design that attracts customers of all ages. Among the many amazing shops located in the mall is JEWELSTAR. Be sure to stop in! At JEWELSTAR, shoppers will find excellent jewelry at reasonable prices. Many visitors to Rehoboth report that JEWELSTAR is one of their ‘most go’ shops as they visit our town. Shoppers enjoy all of the unique and unusual pieces that are on display throughout the cozy shop. At JEWELSTAR, there is something beautiful waiting for everyone for all budgets. Shoppers always appreciate the warm and friendly ambiance and the excellent service. Additionally, as a special bonus, ear piercing is available! You’ll find JEWELSTAR at 42 Rehoboth Avenue or call 302-260-9158 for more information. They are open daily from 11:00am–5:00pm. Shining Sol Candle Company Peter Beck With the holiday season approaching, I decided to get an early start on shopping. Since it is a tradition each year for me to give my sister-in-law Cathy a scented candle, I thought it would be quite fun to design and make this year’s gift at the Shining Sol Candle Company, located at 110 Rehoboth Avenue.
Carrie, the friendly store manager, greeted me cheerfully and then took me over to the candle-making table. I selected Amber because Cathy likes a gentle, pleasant, and natural aroma. I then selected a pretty teal green container that is similar to the color of the walls in my sister-in-law’s home. Because of the deep shade of the container, it seemed logical to make the candle white, although there are many different color options available. Making the candle was a breeze! I poured the scent into the container and stirred for several minutes. Then, because the wax is very hot, Cindy filled the container with the wax. Next, I chose several colorful wax seashells for the top of the candle and paid the bill. The candle was ready to pick up a few hours later since the wax needs to cool, giving me some time to do some more shopping and pick up lunch. When I went to get the candle, I was extremely happy with the finished product. I can’t wait to give it to Cathy for the holidays!l No appointments are necessary to make your own candle, and the price is the same as the many different candles featuring over 100 scents, which are available throughout the store. Children three and up are welcome to make candles under parental supervision; the store is available for rent to provide a very unique private candle-making birthday party, bachelorette party, or celebration of other special occasions! The Shining Sol Candle Company designs candles from 100% eco-friendly soy wax, and each candle features a crackling wood wick. Open in town since March 2021, the Shining Sol Candle Company is an outstanding addition to the retail scene! For more information, visit their website: https://www.shiningsol.com/shining-sol-rehoboth-beach/. Phone: 302-567-5336. Christmas Spirit Jerry Filbin
Christmas Spirit is a long-time Rehoboth Beach specialty store that features Christmas decorations and other holiday items. There are hundreds of ornaments in themes such as Old-World Christmas—and Coastal Themes and souvenir ornaments such as a Dolle’s, Funland, the watch towers, and Thrasher’s! I think I know someone who could use the “Santa on a shark” ornament! There are also holiday tea towels to make the kitchen festive. This season, Christmas Spirit is also featuring the Christopher Radko designer collection at a 25% discount!
Christmas Spirit is a store you could browse for hours—not only for yourself, but also to find the great Rehoboth Beach souvenir ornament or ornaments from other themes to make a great memory gift for friends. When you are in town, this is a “don’t miss” for the holiday season! Christmas Spirit is located at 129 Rehoboth Avenue. Phone: 302-227-6872. Salt Air Jerry Filbin
Salt Air is a restaurant with a lot of history in Rehoboth Beach. Located at 50 Wilmington Avenue at the corner of S. Second Street, Salt Air is one of the illustrious restaurants in The Big Fish Group of restaurants that includes Sazio, Stingray, Obie’s By The Sea, and the Crab House in town. Salt Air has been the home of upscale dining for many years. It features a relaxed atmosphere and an inviting bar with hand-crafted cocktails and delightful wines. The staff are most helpful and inviting.
Salt Air has won a number of awards including DelawareToday’s 2020 Best Rehoboth Beach Restaurant and the 2018 Best Wine List Downstate and Best Restaurant in Delaware awards. Salt Air is open for dinner and features a broad selection of dishes including soup and salads (try the roasted pepper and tomato bisque!), small-plates, and shareables.
The main menu features a broad selection of seafood dishes (Eastern Shore crab cakes, shrimp and andouille sausage, pan seared halibut, and seafood stew to name a few) and farm-fresh meat and vegetarian dishes, a flawless 14 oz. NY Strip steak with red creamer potatoes, sautéed asparagus, and scorched red pearl onions is just one of the amazing dishes. Don’t overlook the Chef’s Special of the Day: espresso-rubbed salmon was the choice as I write this piece. Salt Air is definitely a keeper and footsteps off of Rehoboth Avenue, it is warm and inviting and a fabulous dining experience. Phone: 302-227-3774.
News from Rehoboth Beach Members Off-Season Daily Specials Return to Rehoboth Beach
Special thanks to RBMS Blue Partner The Canalside Inn for again publishing the Off-Season Daily Specials in Downtown Rehoboth Beach! Come on out to enjoy a meal with an off-season discount! Off Season Rehoboth Beach Restaurant Deals (subscribepage.com) A Request: Available Space for Radio Rehoboth
You may have seen a recent story about Radio Rehoboth in the Cape Gazette that described the current financial challenges for Rehoboth's not-for-profit (501 (c) (3)) community radio station, WWSX 99.1. Radio Rehoboth is an RBMS member and a valuable community communications asset to the City. In support for the station, RBMS is putting out a call for any in-town business that might have a small space available as a tax-deductible donation that would provide 99.1 with studio space. The requirements are pretty basic: accessibility, climate control, power, and the ability to hook up their own internet access and phone.If you think you may be able to provide a space, please reach out to Jeff Balk at Radio Rehoboth at 302-510-9000 or info@radiorehoboth.com. Rehoboth Beach Then and Now—A self-guided walking tour on the Built Story mobile app is now available! As an introductory offer: “Ten Days of Free Rehoboth History”—the tour will be available for residents and visitors at no cost on November 18-27!
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 (before November 18 and after November 27). 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 Is Participating in the Winter Wonderland Toy & Coat Drive
RBMS is collecting new coats as part of The United Way of Delaware’s “Winter Wonderland Resource Fair/Coat and Toy Give Away.” Two Resource Fairs will be held in Sussex County for families and community members. The community fairs allow agencies, organizations, and businesses to promote education, health, prevention, and safety. Participating organizations will provide resources, coats, and holiday gifts—for families and children grades K–8. Resource Fair Schedule Schellville—December 3rd, 2:30–4:30pm Laurel Library—December 10th, 12:00–1:30pm RBMS requests that you drop off donated coats by Friday, December 2 at the Rehoboth Beach Main Street Office: 509 Rehoboth Avenue, Monday–Friday, 10:00am–6:00pm. Mark your calendars for these December RBMS events! Community Unity Dinner
RBMS will again host the Community Unity Dinner, on December 4—a Rehoboth Beach tradition since 1994! At the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center, 4:30–7:30pm. Fun for All. Highlights: a delicious pasta dinner, ice cream bar, Mr. and Mrs. Claus, live music provided by the Cape Jazz Band, Nutcracker ballerinas, and of course Holiday Carolers. Always a Must to start the holiday season.
Holiday Stroll A Holiday Stroll will be held on December 10. Check out our merchants’ holiday window displays. Santa will be all about downtown that day. We’ll also have Holiday Carolers and a photo station. Put on your fun holiday attire and join us downtown! Wreaths Across America
Rehoboth Beach Main Street and Rehoboth Beach Homeowners Association are co-hosting their second annual Wreaths Across America ceremony on Saturday, December 17. This is similar to what happens every year at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington DC. In addition to asking the public to attend and help lay wreaths at the gravesites of the over 150 veterans, we are asking if any former or current Armed Service members would like to represent their branch of service by honoring it during the ceremony. Each service branch: Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, and United States Merchant Marines will have a single member bestowed with the honor of presenting their branch’s ceremonial wreath during the program. Wreaths Across American will take place on Saturday, December 17 at 12:00noon at the Epworth Church Cemetery on Henlopen Avenue, next to Grove Park in Rehoboth Beach. Parking is limited, so arrive early. For more information contact RehobothWreaths@gmail.com. A(nother) New Benefit from RBMS! Are you having difficulty finding and retaining staff? Are you having to deal more and more with frustrated and rude customers? If so, we have some ways to help you.
Rehoboth Beach Main Street is partnering with Community Service Institute and has created a workshop to help Rehoboth Beach downtown residents and businesses. Community Service Institute has developed a primary well-being training system that has become a cornerstone for developing people and organizations desiring to increase levels of effectiveness and improve bottom-line results. Our Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication and What It Says about Us The Hidden Story · Every person is influenced by different challenges and has a back story. · Supervisors, team leaders and associates all need to be aware that there are external influences, which affect people differently. · Today’s reality: labor shortages and frustrated customers · All of us have internal beliefs(biases), feelings, and behaviors, that influence the decisions we make and the actions we take. What Is Your Story? · Do we listen to learn or listen to win? · Do we debate or have dialogue? · What are ten rules for having a better conversation? We will explore these and other communication skills/challenges. Community Service Institute Workshop: $25.00 Date: Tuesday, November 15, 2022 Time: 9:00am–10:30am Location: Rehoboth Beach Public Library, 226 Rehoboth Avenue
Continental breakfast and beverages will be served. Please RSVP by calling John Urbanski at 419-721-3377 or email jurbanski@cservei.com. Seating is limited. Credit cards, checks, and cash accepted (credit card fee will be added). Rehoboth Beach Main Street’s Inaugural Day of Giving Thank you for joining us for 19 hours & 96 minutes of giving Celebrating the year RBMS was founded: 1996 What are you doing on Tuesday, November 29th, 2022? Join us for Rehoboth Beach Main Street’s Day of Giving for 19 hours and 96 minutes!
We are only able to make a difference in our town because of supporters like you. Please join us to help make a difference and support Rehoboth Beach Main Street in all the things RBMS does for our town. Our goal is to raise $25,000 and increase our "new donors" to help support our yearly programs that impact the entire community—residents and businesses alike. But we'll only reach that goal through the kindness and generosity of people like you. Will you help us? RBMS programs include "Rehoboth in Bloom" (downtown planters & gardens), RBMS monthly Newsletter & social media, Community Unity Holiday Gatherings, the popular Gumbo Crawl, as well as a full calendar of events throughout the year. In addition, we continue to develop economic programs that benefit the downtown businesses and our residential community alike. Here's how you can get involved: · Add “Day of Giving” to your calendar: November 29, 2022! · Donate to Rehoboth Beach Main Street. Your kindness and generosity will help. · Spread the word by telling your friends, family, and coworkers why you’re passionate about helping Rehoboth Beach Main Street and all RBMS does for our community. · Visit our website—often! · Follow-us, Like-us, and Share-us on our Facebook page. We'll share updates and stories throughout about how much you and others in our community are making a difference. Make your gift before 12:36pm on December 1, 2022 & be a part of the “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” movement! Gifts of $500+ will receive recognition on the RBMS Website, in our Social Media posts, and in our RBMS Newsletter. We're only able to make a difference in our community because of supporters like you. Please join us on this year's “Day of Giving” to help make a difference and support Rehoboth Beach Main Street in all the things we do! Thanksgiving Dining in Rehoboth Jerry Filbin
If you’ve planned on Thanksgiving dinner in Rehoboth, we’ve got some good news. Calling around, we’ve tagged 8 member establishments that we know are serving downtown. Most have some form of traditional Thanksgiving menu; a few weren’t quite certain yet what the menu will look like. Black Wall Hitch is open with a Thanksgiving buffet. Victoria’s is serving a traditional menu but as of press time they were already fully booked. Dos Locos will serve a traditional Thanksgiving menu. Salt Air will be serving but the menu is not yet set. Purple Parrot will be open but the menu is not yet set. Cooter Brown’s will be open and has a Thanksgiving menu. Drift will be serving take-out—to order call the restaurant or email Info@DriftRB.com, but all orders need to be in by November 17. The meals will come with heating instructions. They are featuring Drift Oyster Stuffing with Rehoboth Bay Oysters, Sweet Italian Sausage, Fennel, Tarragon, Station of Kings Sourdough, and House Brioche. Feeds 4–6 people / $30. Theo’s is also featuring a take-out dinner for 4: traditional dinner. Orders need to be in by November 20 with pick up with instructions on the 23rd. RBMS Fall Fashion Festival: On the Avenue Join us "On the Avenue,” Sunday, November 13, 1:00pm, at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center for an afternoon of fun...fashion...and food!
Sit back and enjoy a delicious champagne brunch while discovering the fabulous men's and women's fashions available from Rehoboth Beach’s finest local retailers! Your first glass of champagne, dessert, and coffee are included, with a cash bar available for additional cocktails. These are the stores participating in the runway fashion show:
Beach Essentials Bombshell Boutique of Rehoboth Boutique W Brashhh Carlton’s Cashmere Garden Charm City Running Coral Cove Grace Pineapple Princess Quiet Storm Something Comfortable South Moon Under The Pink Turtle Top It Off
We will have a boutique (holiday) shopping area including Bad Hair Day?, in2soles, The Lion’s Den Candle Company, and more. Gift Card Grab Bags…50/50…and many surprises.
Looking forward to seeing y’all at the Fall Fashion Festival! Tickets are on sale NOW at downtownrb.com/ontheavenue.
A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Harry K Foundation.
Rehoboth in Bloom: A New Garden!
Rehoboth in Bloom’s Canalside Garden is ready to move forward, and we are so excited!! Thank you, City of Rehoboth, for giving Bloom this opportunity. With contributions from Dogfish Head and community transportation funds secured by Senator Ernie Lopez, we will be able to create a beautiful welcoming entrance into downtown Rehoboth. We can’t thank Dick Byrne enough for spearheading the effort to secure the funding from the community transportation funds (via Senator Lopez) and coordinating the effort with the City of Rehoboth.
The garden will be located on the Rehoboth Avenue side of Rehoboth Beach Museum.
Our plans include moving three planters currently on the museum grounds to the west side of the garden…
Repositioning the rocks that are in the current space…
Moving the low grasses in the current garden, and…
Placing two sets of pilings with stones and beach grasses to the rear of the garden.
The work will be completed by RSC Landscaping and is expected to begin in November. We already have a team for this project, with Bob Arner as the Lead. Diane Cutler has been instrumental in the planning and execution. This garden will be Rehoboth in Bloom’s hallmark project! We have many more projects in the queue, but we have to be careful to take it slow—our motto from the start has been “Think Big but Start Small.”
Volunteer Recognition: Dick Byrne
Dick Byrne is a dynamic volunteer for RBMS, currently serving on the RBMS Board of Directors. He is also co-chair of the Organization Committee and a member of the RBMS Rehoboth in Bloom Management Committee. Dick is a retired teacher, professor, and University Administrator in youth and family development (University of Minnesota and University of Maryland).
Since retiring and moving full-time to Delaware 13 years ago, Dick has served as Vice-Chair of the Delaware SPCA Board of Directors, Chair of the Sussex Family YMCA Board of Governors, a member of the Delaware YMCA Association Board, a member of the Cape Henlopen Senior Center Board of Directors, a member of the Clear Space Theatre Board of Directors, Chair of the 14th Representative District Democratic Committee, Treasurer of the Eastern Sussex Democrats, Campaign Manager of Leslie Ledogar for Sussex County Council campaign, and as an elected City of Rehoboth Beach Commissioner for 3 years. During that time, he served as Chair of the Animal Issues Committee, he created the City Environment Committee, and served on the Tree and Green Infrastructure Committee. Currently, Dick is president of his condo association.
Dick spearheaded the effort that resulted in Delaware Senator Ernie Lopez donating $17,000 in state money for the new Rehoboth in Bloom project: the Canalside Garden (see related story in this issue). Dick has also been a Lead and active volunteer for Rehoboth in Bloom since its inception in 2019. We are so grateful for Dick’s continued contribution to Rehoboth in Bloom.
Dick lives in the City of Rehoboth Beach with his wife Sherri Wright and rescue critters Joey and Gracie.
Rehoboth Beach Main Street is honored to have Dick Byrne as a volunteer and utilize his vast experience, knowledge, and drive to grow this organization.
What’s the GAMSA Award?
And a Review of RBMS’ History
Fay Jacobs
Each year, Main Street America recognizes exceptional Main Street communities whose successes serve as a model for preservation-based commercial district revitalization with the Great American Main Street Award (GAMSA). In 2009, there were 1700 Main Street communities, and five were chosen as Great America Main Streets. Rehoboth Beach was one of them! Since the award’s inception in 1995, over 100 Main Street programs have been honored.
As shown in the 2009 GAMSA application essay, RBMS was founded in 1996, fighting big box and Route One competition. The fledgling program developed a streetscape revitalization plan (which went on to be embraced by the City), brought July 4th fireworks back downtown after a 15-year absence, and developed tourism and business generators.
Membership jumped from 60 to 297 members between 1999 and 2009, with businesses embracing the four-point plan. In 2000, RBMS launched a matching grant sign and façade program leading to grants for 60 front-lit signs and 22 façade improvements.
The City and Delaware Department of Transportation launched its streetscape project in 2002, with RBMS advising on aesthetics and serving as communication liaison between merchants, the City, and the contractor.
Then, the City funded Main Street’s massive print and radio campaign to bring people downtown despite construction. The local newspaper donated space and a nationally known photographer donated hilarious weekly ads to bring people downtown.
Then, Main Street launched regional TV ads initially funded by a state grant, promoting Rehoboth as "the year 'round beach town." There was increased hotel, restaurant, and retail business throughout the fall and winter 2003-2007.
Main Street and Rehoboth Art League tackled the Dolphin Project, with outdoor animal sculptures. Main Street added its gift certificate program in 2005, driving business downtown. By 2006, the $33,000,000 streetscape was complete with almost all merchants surviving the huge disruption. Main Street then added lightpole banners and raised $50,000 for Rehoboth’s first outdoor sculpture: a 12-ft Bronze Dolphin.
Main Street won the 2008 U.S.Small Business Administration’s Small Business Community of the Year for Delaware, and in 2009 followed up with the Great American Main Street Award.
Members of the Board and the Executive Director were honored at a Main Street National Meeting in Chicago in 2009 and were celebrated here at home by Governor Ruth Ann Minner, the state Main Street organization, and the City.
The GAMSA application itself is a compilation of budgets, numbers, types of downtown businesses, number of volunteers, letters of support by businesses and other non-profits, public, and private investment numbers, and much more. The organization spotlights its promotion efforts, economic development, and adherence to the four-point Main Street program.
Rehoboth Beach Main Street continues to do great things for Rehoboth Beach. We have a talented Executive Director and tremendously active volunteers on the board and our five committees, as well as working on various projects such as Rehoboth In Bloom, the Cottage and Town Awards, the Gumbo Crawl, Then and Now Virtual History Tour, supporting sidewalk dining during the COVID pandemic, and the upcoming Fall Fashion Festival, Community Unity Dinner, Holiday Stroll, Coat Drive, Wreaths Across America, and more! We work hard to keep downtown Rehoboth Beach the best hometown and tourist destination around!
SAVE THE DATE
Towers Comedy Festival
Thursday, November 3–Saturday, November 5
The inaugural Towers Comedy Festival will be held at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center. To learn more, go to Live Comedy | Towers Comedy Festival.
Rehoboth Art League Holiday Fair Fine Craft Show
Saturday, November 5–Sunday, November 6
10:00am–4:00pm
Rehoboth Art League,12 Dodds Lane, in Henlopen Acres.
RAIN OR SHINE
The 38th Annual Holiday Fair Fine Craft Show will feature a variety of artisans exhibiting and selling their work, including jewelry, glasswork, ceramics, mixed media, and decorative and wearable fiber creations. Patrons can stroll the campus and find artists throughout the historic Homestead, Chambers Studio, and the Corkran and Tubbs galleries to select the perfect gifts for family, friends and themselves. https://www.rehobothartleague.org/events/holiday-fair/
Rehoboth Beach History Lecture
The Belhaven
Thursday, November 10, 7:15–8:30pm
Sussex Room Boardwalk Plaza
Built in 1899 by the railroad as a casino, this stately hotel dominated the head of Rehoboth Avenue for over 60 years. An early owner was an internationally renowned portrait artist. The hotel had the same Maitre’D from 1915 to 1950.
Call Paul at 302-893-9391 to reserve your seat. $25/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.
Clear Space Theatre presents Spotlight on Young Performers
"The Little Mermaid, Jr"
Friday, November 11, 7:00pm
Saturday, November 12, 2:00 and 7:0 pm
Sunday, November 13, 2:00pm
Clear Space Theatre, 20 Baltimore Avenue
A musical based on one of Hans Christian Andersen's most beloved stories and the classic animated Disney Film. Tickets available at:
'On the Avenue' Champagne Brunch and Runway Fashion Show
Sunday, November 13, 1:00–4:00pm
Rehoboth Beach Convention Center
This festive event will provide the opportunity to see the fabulous fashions available from Rehoboth Beach’s fine retailers! A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Harry K. Foundation. (See article above.)
To purchase tickets: https://www.downtownrb.com/ontheavenue Info: Rehoboth Beach Main Street 302-249-6525
Annual MERR Finraiser (Marine Education, Research & Rehabilitation Institute)
Sunday, November 13, 4:00pm to 8:00pm,
at Solero atop the Henlopen Hotel in Rehoboth Beach
The evening will feature music from 33 1/3, a wine tasting with celebrity bartenders, hors d'oeuvres, desserts, and both live and silent auctions. This will be the first time in three years that the event will be in-person and will follow all recommended CDC protocols the night of the event. https://www.merrinstitute.org/events
Encore of “Aging Gracelessly: Still Rock ‘n Roll to Me”
Sunday, November 13, 7:0 pm
CAMP Rehoboth
37 Baltimore Avenue
Fay Jacobs will perform an encore of “Aging Gracelessly: Still Rock ‘n Roll to Me” at 7 p.m., in the Elkins-Archibald Atrium at CAMP Rehoboth.
Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at eventbrite.com. Seating is limited and sales are open now.
Federal Spirit Dinners
Seacrets Rum
Friday, November 18
7:00pm Start Time
The Federal, 62A Rehoboth Avenue
Spirit dinners at The Federal are an opportunity to experience & learn about our featured spirit each month. Guests enjoy a four-course tasting menu paired with cocktails from our roster. A representative from each company will be on-site to guide us along our expedition. Cost - $55.00 per person plus gratuity. Three dinners - $150.00 per person plus gratuity & 10% discount onsite purchased spirit. Six dinners - $288.00 per person plus gratuity & 15% discount onsite purchased spirit. AND the Very Fine Print: All dinners take place at The Federal 62A Rehoboth Avenue. Tickets available at: https://www.federalfritter.com/
Seacrets Distilling Company proudly produces award-winning Seacrets Spirits—A fearless collection of premium small-batch, spirits handcrafted locally in Ocean City Maryland. Established in 2016, SDC has earned 44 awards. Discover “The Taste Worth Fighting For!” With the Maestros Mezcaleros and the Oaxacan Communities, Seacrets Distilling Company created their own distillery to collaborate and produce traditional Mezcal. Los Siete Misterios is a family created by the Maestros Mezcaleros and the Oaxacan communities to share their dedication to Mezcal and the Mexican Spirit.
Menu for this event is online. Sign up on the website. Seating is very limited so sign up early, a credit card is required but will not be charged until conclusion of the dinner. A cancelation fee for a “no show” is the full price of the dinner with a 72-hour cancellation window.
Cape Henlopen Senior Center's Annual Holiday Fair
Saturday, November 19, 9:00am–2:00pm
Cape Henlopen Senior Center
11 Christian Street
What a convenient and fun way to find something unique and special for everyone on your holiday list. For additional information or to sign up as a vendor call the Cape Henlopen Senior Center at (302) 227-2055 and speak with Bernita Hackney.
Clear Space Theatre presents "Elf: The Musical"
Friday, November 25, 7:30pm
Saturday, November 26, 2:00 and 7:00pm
Sunday, November 27, 2:00pm
Clear Space Theatre, 20 Baltimore Avenue
Based on the cherished 2003 New Line Cinema hit, ELF brings us Buddy, a young orphan, who mistakenly crawls into Santa's bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised, unaware that he is actually human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. Tickets available at
Rehoboth Beach Library
226 Rehoboth Avenue
November Events
November 4: Bryan & the Barn Owls Concert @ 7:00pm
Bryan Scar has performed at the library several times as part of the Sunsets Live Music Series. He is an Americana artist who has been entertaining folks from the coastal waters of Delaware to the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. His sound is a mix of John Denver, Jim Croce, & Johnny Cash. Accolades thus far include multiple appearances on Delmarva Life/local radio stations, 4 studio albums, & an endorsement by Teton Guitars.
November 5: Ultimate Super Smash Bros. Tournament at 1:00am
In honor of International Games Month, it's time for another Super Smash Bros. Tournament! As always, the doors open at 10:30 and the tournament starts at 11:00. All ages are welcome to play. Several game stations will be set up for participants to enjoy while waiting for your turn at the controller.
November 18: Among Us IRL @ 6:00pm
EMERGENCY MEETING - A special, after-hours library event: playing Among Us...IN REAL LIFE! Complete tasks in the "spaceship," wear funny hats, and try to figure out who among the players is the impostor. Because this event is being held after the library closes, you'll have most of the first floor at your disposal to explore and try to avoid suspicious crewmembers. This event is open to all ages, from kids to adults!
Recurring & Weekly Events
· Start a Book Club at the Rehoboth Beach Public Library!
· Creative Movement Sunday Yoga: Every Sunday, 10:30am, free of charge.
· Basic Computer Skills Help Desk: Third Tuesday of every month, 2:00pm to 4:00pm.
· Dancing with Thom: Every Wednesday! Check times for skill levels.
· 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 November Events at the Library: https://rehoboth.lib.de.us/
EARLY DECEMBER EVENTS
Rehoboth Beach Santa Bar Crawl 2022
Saturday, December 3, 1:00–6:00pm
Various venues in and near Rehoboth Beach
Welcome to Rehoboth Beach’s Santa Bar Crawl to benefit the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. The event will take place on Saturday, December 3rd beginning at 1:00pm. Dress up as Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, or one of his elves, and head to Rehoboth to spread some holiday cheer as you hop from location to location. Most importantly, don’t forget a new and unwrapped toy.
All participating restaurants/bars will have official Marine Toys for Tots Foundation toy drop boxes for your convenience. We hope to have a few Marines on location to accept your toys donations in person and to pose for pictures.
The event will begin at 1:00pm and wrap up around 6:00pm as Santa needs to head back to the North Pole in order to prepare for the big day later in the month.
Below is a list of participating restaurant and bar locations. You are welcome to start and progress in any order and timeframe you prefer:
Above the Dunes – 101 S. Boardwalk Aqua Bar & Grill - 57 Baltimore Avenue Arena’s Deli & Bar – 149 Rehoboth Avenue
Freddie’s Beach Bar - 3 South 1st Street Jam Bistro - 21 Baltimore Avenue Nalu Rehoboth Beach - 41 Rehoboth Avenue The Pond Bar & Grill - 19266 Coastal Highway The Purple Parrot Grill - 134 Rehoboth Avenue Rehoboth Ale House - 15 Wilmington Avenue Zogg’s Raw Bar & Grill - 1 Wilmington Avenue
A drop box for toys is also available at Rehoboth Beach Main Street’s Office, 509 Rehoboth Avenue, (behind the Rehoboth Beach Museum at Grove Park) in case you cannot make it to the Santa Crawl. RBMS Office hours are 10:00am to 4:00pm Monday through Friday.
Note: All new and unwrapped toys will go to Nassau, DE LCO. Nassau DE LCO (Local Campaign Organization) is sponsored by Marine Corps League Diamond State Detachment 704 for the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation in Central (Eastern-Western) and Northern Sussex County, Delaware.
Community Unity Dinner
Sunday, December 4, 4:30–7:30 pm
Rehoboth Beach Convention Center
Rehoboth Beach Main Street Annual Community Unity Dinner is fast approaching. Tickets are on sale now! Stop by the RBMS Office or call to reserve your tickets for pickup.
Time: 10:00am–6:00pm
Phone: 302-227-2772
Location: RBMS Office 509 Rehoboth Avenue
Credit cards, checks, and cash accepted (Credit Card Fee will be added).
(See article above)
Rehoboth Holiday Stroll
Saturday, December 4, 1:00–4:00pm
Downtown Rehoboth Beach
Rehoboth Beach Main Street is excited to announce a new event for this December - The Rehoboth Beach Holiday Stroll. This event will take place on Saturday, December 10 in Downtown Rehoboth Beach. The RBMS Rehoboth Beach Holiday Stroll will be known as “Our Hometown for the Holidays.” Come downtown and shop for the holidays. Stop for a coffee in one of our amazing coffee shops. Shop in any one of our award-winning specialty shops. Take time to enjoy a meal at any of our great restaurants.
Our downtown stroll will feature:
· Santa and Mrs. Claus walking thru the Downtown
· Town Carolers strolling and singing tunes of the seasons
· Several locations where you and your family can stop and take a picture.
Be on the lookout for Snowmen walking throughout the downtown!
2022 Rehoboth Beach Hometown Christmas Parade
Monday, December 5, 6:00pm
The 2022 Rehoboth Beach Hometown Christmas Parade will be presented by the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company. Their goal is to make the 2022 Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company Hometown Christmas Parade the largest we’ve ever had. If you know any other groups who are interested in participating, please refer them to the RBVFC website at www.rehobothbeachfire.com. All parade participants and attendees are invited to the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Station Museum after the parade for SANTA’S CHRISTMAS PARTY for refreshments, and children to visit Santa Claus for a small gift. Bring your friends and family out for a night of holiday fun for all. Thank you for making our community’s parade a success, and have a Merry, Merry Christmas.
Editor’s Note
Thank you all for your support of RBMS. If you have any questions or comments, please contact me, Peter Pizzolongo, Newsletter Editor, at PeterRBMS@gmail.com.
