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Phillips says farewell to county council

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Coastal Point • Maria Counts  : County Administrator Todd Lawson presents outgoing Sussex County Councilman Vance Phillips with a plaque in recognition of, and appreciation for, his 16 years of service.Coastal Point • Maria Counts : County Administrator Todd Lawson presents outgoing Sussex County Councilman Vance Phillips with a plaque in recognition of, and appreciation for, his 16 years of service.Following a 16-year tenure, Sussex County District 5 Councilman Vance Phillips this week concluded his last council meeting.

“Today is my last day on county council after so many years,” said Phillips on Dec. 16. “During the course of this meeting, it has been a great joy to see so many faces. Everybody in this room means so much to me.”

A reception was held following the meeting, culminating Phillips’ time on council. Those in attendance included former council president Dale Dukes; state Reps. Ron Gray, Dave Wilson, Rich Collins and Tim Dukes, and former county administrators Bob Stickles, Joe Conaway and David Baker.

Phillips thanked all those in attendance for their guidance and friendship over the years.

“As I look around this room, it just fills my heart with joy to know that people like you care about me,” he said. “When I was injured and in the hospital, it was so many of you that prayed me up out of that hospital bed… Just day-by-day I felt God’s hand in it all. It was because so many people were praying for me.”

Councilman Sam Wilson — who had driven to Philadelphia and watched Phillips take his first steps following the 2011 crash that occurred while Phillips was conducting a solo flight in a glider-like aircraft — thanked Phillips for his advice and friendship.

“I’m sure going to miss him,” he said.

“Thank you for all the years you’ve served this county and served it well,” added Council President Michael Vincent.

Tim Dukes presented Phillips with a tribute from the House of Representatives, recognizing his years of service.

“I have appreciated working with you,” said Tim Dukes.

Sussex County Land Trust Board Member Dennis Forney thanked Phillips for his support in preserving areas for Sussex County’s non-voting residents, including the deer, squirrels and skunks.

“We’ve always appreciated your dedication to open spaces in Sussex County,” he said. “We preserve thousands of acres in Sussex County, and we’re not done by a long shot. We appreciate your help, Vance.”

Phillips praised non-profit groups for providing support to county residents, which he said helps keep government small.

“Government cannot be everything to everybody,” he said.

Phillips, who had hoped to stay on council, lost the Republican primary in September to Rob Arlett.

“Just for the record, I have no political ambitions. I am not interested in getting back into the fray,” he said. “I want you all to embrace Rob Arlett. He is a fine gentleman. He is the kind of person I think is going to make a tremendous county councilman if we don’t lose him to Congress or the U.S. Senate. Rob, I hope you will give us at least four years.”

It was a tough day, said Phillips, noting that he had spent the majority of his Tuesdays in council chambers over the last 16 years. However, with the showing of support at the farewell, Phillips said he wouldn’t shed any tears.

“It would be a disservice to have emotion other than joy right now,” he said.


South Bethany resident wants action on new floodplain numbers

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Ed Bintz was excited to save money on flood insurance when FEMA planned to lower the base-flood elevation (BFE) of his South Bethany house from 12 to 10 feet. But that was short-lived, after a letter from a member of the town council prompted FEMA officials to reevaluate the land — and raise the BFE to 13 feet.

“I really don’t think Ocean Drive homeowners have any idea. I kind of stumbled on this with my surveyor,” Bintz told the council on Dec. 12.

BFE is the elevation to which floodwater are expected to rise during a 100-year flood. For years, Ocean Drive had a BFE of 12 feet. Houses had to be built to that elevation or risk even higher flood insurance premiums.

But in re-drawing its Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) in August of 2013, FEMA changed the oceanfront land in South Bethany to BFE 10 feet. Under that measure, when the maps become effective in 2015, houses could be built lower, or people could save more insurance money because their house is suddenly several feet above BFE.

But earlier this year, Town Councilman George Junkin wrote what he called an “inquiry” into FEMA’s BFE calculation method, suspecting an error might have been made. Junkin’s letter said he felt the oceanfront should return to VE-12, and that a southern chunk of land should not become AE-7, but remain AO-2.

Meanwhile, having heard that FEMA would lower the BFE, Bintz looked for public notices and meeting agendas on the issue, but he never found any update until the autumn Zephyr newsletter from the Town informed residents that the oceanfront BFE would increase.

“South Bethany together with DNREC pointed out to FEMA that zones near Ocean Drive were probably not accurately modeled,” read the Town newsletter. “Historically, during nor’easters, oceanfront homes, at an elevation of 12 feet NAVD, have seen repetitive damage. Some homes were even raised by FEMA to reduce their risk of damage.”

‘All we did was ask a question’

“We didn’t do anything but supply historical information. For them to go and say it should be lowered — it just defied logic,” said South Bethany Mayor Pat Voveris. “All we did was say, ‘Hey — you had this at a much higher point.’”

Junkin’s letter included historical photos of flood damage, elevation data and backup support from DNREC’s Michael Powell.

FEMA responded in mid-August that Junkin’s letter had been treated as an official appeal.

Voveris explained the situation: “Council never took any formal action on the matter, but as chairman of Sea Level Rise and Storm Surge [Committee], Councilman Junkin investigated. … He discussed the issue with both DNREC and FEMA and submitted historical documentation to FEMA.”

“It has essentially been 12 for a long time. Could they re-look at it and tell us why it should be 10 rather than 12?” Junkin said of his inquiry. “They took that information as an appeal. It wasn’t an appeal. It was a request for them to look at the information. It was an inquiry. For an appeal to go through, it has to be signed off by a mayor.”

“And an engineer. And an attorney,” Voveris added.

“They have a very rigid process,” Voveris said. “We were very surprised that our inquiry was turned into an appeal.”

FEMA inappropriately decided not to consider South Bethany’s new dune line, Junkin said.

“I indicated I thought it should be 12, but I was asking them to re-look at their analysis,” Junkin concluded.

But when FEMA did just that, the number actually increased.

Junkin’s April letter was received within FEMA’s 90-day appeal period. After that, the Town was encouraged to notify affected homeowners within 30 days and tell FEMA if there were any other comments when that period was concluded. After that, the maps are finalized.

Bintz got the news from the newsletter email. From August until now, Voveris said, there was no public hearing or similar process, because Council did not consider the letter an appeal.

“It was not like a formalized appeal process,” said Voveris. “We felt that we were doing due diligence. We’re a council that’s working hard for our owners. We’re trying to be responsible.”

Homeowner upset

Even though FEMA now says the EBF number should be 13 feet, residents may be eligible for grandfathered 12-foot rates — but Bintz wanted the discount in his rates that he would have seen had FEMA kept the EBF at 10 feet.

“I pay $9,200 in flood insurance. “My premium would have gone down [30 to 40] percent,” Bintz said.

That could also have made his home more attractive to eventual buyers, he noted.

Bintz said he was disappointed with the Town’s seeming lack of transparency, especially when residents could be economically impacted.

“The process was flawed,” Bintz said. “I also think FEMA took advantage of the submission and ran with it.”

He said he feels that FEMA and DNREC would prefer people not live in vulnerable coastal areas, so the agencies leapt at a chance to call the letter an appeal.

Putting the ball in FEMA’s court

The council recently drafted a letter to FEMA on the issue, which Voveris wanted mailed by Dec. 19, after attorney approval.

The letter was to ask FEMA officials to remove Junkin’s letter from the administrative record and reevaluate the numbers using their own technological information.

However, the council did not request specific numbers, such as 10 or 12 feet, for a new EBF, Voveris said.

“It’s not our place. FEMA is the agency that dictates to towns like us. We’re not in that business. We don’t get to choose,” she said.

Voveris also offered an explanation of how, when FEMA’s response came in August, the council didn’t send the letter to FEMA until December.

“This letter is the result of an owner coming forward and saying he was negatively impacted by this change,” Voveris said, calling it a “good-faith gesture.”

“I’m happy the Town is writing this letter and, hopefully, we have some success with it,” Bintz said. “What happened was wrong. … A mistake happened here. And there’s a lot of damage to people on Ocean Drive.”

Ultimately, Bintz called it a flawed process, from FEMA using the inquiry as an appeal to the Town’s not offering more information or public hearings during the 30-day appeal.

Although he was mild-mannered during the council discussion of the issue, Bintz is an attorney and said he is unafraid to litigate if the Town’s letter doesn’t produce results he can accept. Bintz said he is considering legal action against the Town and FEMA, perhaps setting precedent on how FEMA handles appeals.

“I have looked into [legal] claims against the Town. I hope it doesn’t come to that,” he said.

With Bintz’s whisper of a potential lawsuit, Junkin chose not to comment on the issue after the meeting.

FEMA maps can be viewed online at http://maps.riskmap3.com/de/sussex/ for Sussex County.

In other South Bethany Town Council news:

• After years of dealing with crimes related to student vacationers, Police Chief Troy Crowson discussed the department’s planned “Junebug 2015” initiative.

From mailbox smashing to under-age consumption of alcohol, the total reported crimes were 21 in 2012, eight in 2013 and 23 in 2014. Next June, police will continue increased patrols and a zero-tolerance policy, and assist Realtors with the eviction process, if necessary.

“We’re going to contact — as we have in the past — rental agencies, homeowners that rent here,” to compile a list of potential “problem renters,” Crowson said. That includes large groups of young people.

“Last year, we really pulled out the Delaware laws regarding chaperones and their responsibility — just reminding that, if renters [bring teenagers], they are held responsible,” Crowson said.

• Although South Bethany’s major revenue sources met or exceeded expectations, according to Council Treasurer Tim Saxton, other council members asked about over-budget expenses.

Councilman Tony Caputo asked about a plan to address some budget items overspent by $1,000.

“We are looking at doing a budget amendment in February,” Saxton said.

Bank charges are at 155 percent of budgeted figures, Councilman Al Rae noted. “I worked with banks, and I worked with credit cards for years. We should not be paying that amount of fees.”

Processing fees will be offset by citizen fees, Junkin said, and South Bethany is building a payment history for the credit processing company to determine future fee rates, Voveris added.

Rae also noticed that Town functions have cost 129 percent of their budgeted amount, but Saxton said that related to retiree celebrations.

• Coastal floodplain regulations were approved for a first reading, with several adjustments. The council must approve two more readings of the proposed ordinance, on Jan. 29 (a public hearing) and Feb. 13. FEMA mandated most of the changes for towns in the National Flood Insurance Program.

• About 100 empty oyster cages are sitting on a York Road lot, Junkin reported, as by the time Center for Inland Bays got permits for the planned experiment in the canal there, it was too late in the season to get oysters in the water.

If enough complaints come in, Junkin said, the Town can press the CIB to move the cages for the winter, but he expects oysters will go in the water next summer.

The next town council workshop is Thursday, Dec. 18, at 5 p.m. at town hall.

Wreaths Across America honors veterans

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Lola Peters and Karin Harmon didn’t expect to lay their father to rest this year. But they made sure the Korean War veteran was honored during Wreaths Across America 2014. Nearly 500 evergreen wreaths were laid at the Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery on Saturday, Dec. 13, including one for their father, James William Jones.

Wreaths Across America honors the lives of fallen veterans nationwide.

“We have laid wreaths today, and we have laid loved ones here,” said Michaele Russell in her benediction.

“It was a struggle, because my dad always laid the wreaths for our family,” Peters said.

“We miss him, but he lived his life,” said Harmon, who also looks to continue the living legacy he left behind, to help others in her church and community. “There’s still a lot of people still alive who need assistance.”

“The freedoms we have today do not come without a price. … We thank those that gave their lives to keep us free. We will not forget you,” said John Mitchell, VFW state commander, looking around at many veterans in the audience. “Many of you here today have answered that call.”

Millsboro organizer Sally Kubicki spent 300 hours on the effort, from advertising to finding graves.

“It’s in my heart. I am a military wife,” she said. “Remember these days for those who have gone before you. Happy holidays.”

Covered in evergreen wreaths and red ribbon, the Millsboro cemetery was a peaceful location, even with a crowd of people.

“During the day, when you come in here, it’s so peaceful. You can feel the presence of the fallen and the folks who passed on,” said Harmon’s husband, Waymon E. Harmon Jr., himself a National Guardsman.

Even students from Delaware Technical Community College helped with the regional Mid-Atlantic effort. Georgetown’s Commercial Transportation Program delivered wreaths to seven cemeteries throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware.

DCHS celebrates opening of arts and athletic center

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After one basketball season, one graduation, two volleyball seasons, two banquets and several performances, the opening of a new Arts & Athletic Center became a reality on Wednesday, Dec. 10, for Delmarva Christian High School.

The morning celebration began with singing, as the DCHS Praise Team led more than 30 DCHS staff members, 208 DCHS students and parents, grandparents and community members in praise and worship. Principal Mike Vonhof followed by welcoming everyone to the new 27,000-plus-square-foot facility and thanking them for their patience and support. Vonhof also “reflected on God’s faithfulness in providing a great venue for DCHS students and the community,” representatives noted.

The morning continued with the center’s first chapel service and remarks from DCHS board member and one of the school’s founders Lynn Moore. Moore spoke on the school’s history that began more than 15 years ago.

“I am sure most of you have no idea how DCHS came to be, and it is so important for you to have a sense of how God used ordinary people to accomplish something that is truly extraordinary,” said Moore.

Moore reflected on how the vision of a faith-based high school came from a group of four couples. “Each month we would go out to dinner and just enjoy each other’s company,” he recalled. “Although the conversations had a wide range, it seemed they’d always come back to Christian education.”

After one of those dinner conversations, Moore said, he realized the dinner group should stop talking about the “dream” and actually do something about it. Within a few months, after meeting and consulting with numerous businesspeople, educators and pastors, the Board of Directors was formed, a non-profit organization was created, and the process of raising money, finding land, designing a building and establishing a curriculum began.

“Remember, we had no land, no money, no staff, no administration, and — oh, yeah — no students. But, we did have a dream and the feeling that God had inspired this dream,” continued Moore.

Five years later, the doors to Delmarva Christian High School opened on Airport Road in Georgetown, and in 2013, the school moved to its present site on Sussex Pines Road. However, with the move came the need to create additional space for academic, athletic and performing arts activities.

“Today, for the first time in the 11-year history of DCHS, we are in a facility that has all the features that the founders and early supporters dreamed about.” said Moore.

Moore concluded the chapel service by challenging the current DCHS student body. He said, “Dream big, Royals… Dream big in your spiritual life, dream big in the classroom, dream big on this stage, and dream big in athletics. Dare mighty things. They may just come true.”

Following the chapel service, an official ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by DCHS Board President Marlene Elliott Brown and assisted by Vonhof and the DCHS senior class. Current and past members of Delmarva Christian High School’s Board of Directors, as well as representatives from the state legislature, officials from the Town of Georgetown and Sussex County, and members of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce, also participated by holding a purple ribbon across the new performing arts stage.

Delmarva Christian High School’s Arts & Athletic Center houses a student union, classrooms, a green-screen studio, a training/weight room, locker rooms, offices, a stage and a regulation-size gymnasium.

For more information on Delmarva Christian High School, call (302) 856-4040 or visit www.delmarvachristian.com.

DCHS’s Esposito named Regional Coach of the Year

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The National Soccer Coaches Association of America has named Delmarva Christian High School’s girls’ soccer coach, Scott Esposito, as Regional Coach of the Year for the Atlantic Region. Esposito will be receiving the award in January when the NSCAA hosts its annual convention in Philadelphia.

To be considered for the award, Esposito had to meet criteria established by the NSCAA, as well as be nominated by another coach in the region. It was necessary for the coach to exhibit knowledge of the game, rapport with the team and officials, and conduct on the field, as well as seven other categories.

When asked why he thought he was chosen to receive the award, Esposito said, “Honestly, I have no idea. It was by the grace of God. I’m humbled and overwhelmed. This is a team achievement,” said Esposito.

Esposito will be returning this spring as the Delmarva Christian girls’ soccer coach. “There’s a ton of potential. We graduated four players, but we started five freshmen every game.”

Esposito said success is not measured in wins but in the Christian character of the athletes he coaches. He encourages his team to become leaders at school and in the community. The encouragement of his players to spend time in devotions and mentoring is what the award-winning coach said shows there is more to success than winning.

Delmarva Christian High School is a non-denominational Christian high school serving students in Sussex and Kent counties in Delaware, and Wicomico, Dorchester, Talbot and Worcester counties in Maryland. For more information or to schedule a tour, call (302) 856-4040 or visit
www.delmarvachristian.com.

Camp Barnes Wrestling Classic set for Dec. 27

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The 3rd Annual Camp Barnes Wrestling Classic will be held on Saturday, Dec. 27, at Sussex Central High School in Georgetown, with wrestling beginning at 9:30 a.m.

The deadline for mail-in registration to be received was Tuesday, Dec. 23, while online registration, at www.WrestleReg.com, continued until Thursday, Dec. 25 at 8 p.m. Registration costs $25 for mail-in registration or $27 for online registration. Checks should be made payable to Camp Barnes Wrestling Tournament. To obtain a registration form, contact Detective Shawn Hatfield at Troop 4, (302) 856-5850, ext. 212, or via email at james.hatfield@state.de.us. The fee and registration form should be mailed to Camp Barnes Wrestling Classic, Attn: Det. Shawn Hatfield, Delaware State Police Troop 4, 23652 Shortly Rd. Georgetown, DE 19947.

No entries will be accepted after Dec. 25. There will be no walk-ins accepted and no weight changes on the day of the tournament, as brackets will be completed two days prior to the event. Weigh-ins will take place at SCHS on Dec. 26 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 27, from 6:30 to 8 a.m.

Admission for spectators costs $5 for adults or $3 for students, with children 5 or younger admitted free of charge.

National Federation Rules (modified) will govern the tournament. All periods will be 1-1-1, and OT will be 1 min SV followed by NHF Rules. Headgear and singlet are recommended. Proof of age must be available, if challenged. The director has the right to combine weight classes. Division ages are as of Dec. 27 and no varsity experience. Wrestlers may compete in more than one division but must fill out a separate form and must be ready to wrestle when called.

Divisions and weight classes in the double-elimination tournament are:

• Tot (6 and younger) — 40, 45, 50, 55, 60 and 65 HWT (maximum is 85);

• Bantam (7-8) — 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75 and 90 HWT (maximum is 115);

• Midget (9-10) — 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90 and 100 HWT (maximum is 130);

• Junior (11-12) — 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 91, 98, 105, 115 and 125 140 HWT (maximum is 185); and

• Intermediate (13-14) — 77, 84, 91, 98, 105, 112, 119, 126, 133, 140, 148, 158 and 170 HWT (maximum is 235).

Trophies will be presented for first-, second- and third-place wrestlers, with medals presented to those finishing in fourth place.

For more information, contact Detective John Messick at John.Messick@state.de.us or (302) 542-7119.

Camp Barnes was originally designed to provide the children who were unable to attend summer camp an opportunity to experience life at a summer youth camp. It has remained basically unchanged, providing Delaware children with outdoor experiences for more than 60 years.

The summer camp is an overnight residential camp run by the Delaware State Police and is open to children between the ages of 10 and 13 at no cost to the camper or family. Camp Barnes accommodates 60 campers per week for six weeks. The camp is in session from early July through August. All children are eligible to attend, regardless of family income.

Camp Barnes has on its grounds an outdoor initiative course with 17 different initiative and team-building elements. Some of the activities campers participate in throughout the week include swimming in an Olympic-size pool, kayaking in Miller’s Creek, arts and crafts, nature walks and talent shows. Campers also participate in a scaled down version of the Olympics and demonstrations by the DSP K-9 unit.

Camp Barnes has a staff of 12 counselors, two cooks, a kitchen assistant and a nurse. Counselors are required to submit to a criminal background check, as well as an interview. There is also a state trooper on grounds at all times when the camp is in session. For more information, visit the website at www.campbarnes.net.

Eagle Scout candidate builds bridge for IRHS cross-country course

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Coastal Point • Tripp Colonell : From left to right: Indian River High School Principal Bennett Murray, American Legion Post 24 Commander Dennis Daniels Sr., Indian River sophomore John Keller, and cross-country coach Maj. Frank Ryman stand on the bridge Keller built for the cross-country team on the school's course.Coastal Point • Tripp Colonell : From left to right: Indian River High School Principal Bennett Murray, American Legion Post 24 Commander Dennis Daniels Sr., Indian River sophomore John Keller, and cross-country coach Maj. Frank Ryman stand on the bridge Keller built for the cross-country team on the school's course.The rank of Eagle Scout has been the goal for Indian River High School sophomore John Keller since he was 10 years old, and after building a much-needed bridge for the school’s cross-country team, he’s now well on his way to achieving that goal when he goes in front the Eagle board this January.

“My No. 1 goal was always to get Eagle,” said Keller. “By the end of January, I will have gone up for my Eagle board, and I’m hoping by maybe March I’ll have it.”

However, Keller didn’t build the bridge solely to get his Eagle Scout badge — he built it because Indian River cross-country head coach Frank Ryman asked him to help improve the course.

“The main reason was this was definitely an area that they need to get across for the cross-country team,” explained Keller. “They needed to get across to the other side, instead of having to go all the way down and back. It made it two miles shorter. Just in case there was ever an emergency, it’s easier to get across.”

“The coaches that were coming here with their teams were concerned about getting from the one-mile mark to the two-mile mark to get the split times for the runners,” added Ryman. “It’s ease of access. It’s here to facilitate the coaches when we have home meets. We can use this for medical emergency also.”

Before starting the construction, though, Keller needed to come up with the funding for the project. So he went to American Legion Post 24 in Dagsboro, which decided to donate to the project.

“Whenever somebody comes and ask us, if they’re local, we try to help,” explained American Legion Post 24 Commander Dennis Daniels Sr. “We donate to a lot of programs in the community. John came and presented it to us, we thought it was a great idea, and our membership decided that’s what they’d like to do. It’s a beautiful bridge, and I think they’ve done a fantastic job.”

Keller also received help from Lowe’s, in the form of not only discounted materials, but plans to construct the bridge.

“They gave us the plans, and all we had to do was put it together,” Keller explained. “We had to clear it all out first, of all the brush — we had some thorns we had to clear all out — and then we took our measurements.”

But not only did Keller get support from local businesses including Lowe’s and local organizations including Post 24, but also from community members looking to help out — including his own family and Troop 281 Committee Chair Phil Thompson and his son Gunnar.

“It was done within a few weeks,” said Keller of the work shortened by the help he received.

For Indian River High School, students and the community, coming together for causes like this one is a growing trend, and according to Principal Bennett Murray, part of the school’s culture.

“One of our biggest goals is to train our young people to be good citizens once they graduate,” said Murray. “To see a number of our students give back to the community [and] give back our school just means so much to us. It’s nice to know that our future is in good hands.”

As for Keller’s future, he may not be building more bridges any time soon, but he did say that he would definitely be back to help any other future Eagles Scouts with their projects.

The new bridge is located near one-mile and two-mile marks on the Indian River High School cross-country course, behind the soccer fields.

Big Thunder Roadside Kitchen tours local breweries

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SoDel Concepts has been taking its food truck, Big Thunder Roadside Kitchen, on a road trip to Delmarva breweries during the off-season. The truck has trekked to 16 Mile Brewery in Georgetown and, most recently, Mispillion River Brewing in Milford.

SoDel Concepts founder Matt Haley, who passed away in August, put Big Thunder on the road in early 2014.

“Having a food truck that could tour the peninsula was a dream come true for Matt,” said Scott Kammerer, president and CEO of SoDel Concepts, which also has eight coastal restaurants and Plate Catering. “He wanted to bring the SoDel Concepts’ theme — fresh, affordable and local — to people outside of the restaurants’ walls. Big Thunder Roadside Kitchen has been to charity galas and other events, and now it’s hitting the many breweries on the Delmarva Peninsula.”

Not only does Big Thunder bring a fully equipped catering kitchen onsite, but it also introduces SoDel Concepts’ cuisine to potential restaurant customers, he noted.

The brewery tour is also an educational opportunity for SoDel Concepts’ staff, said Ronnie Burkle, a corporate chef with the company.

“We work with a lot of local breweries at our restaurants — particularly at Matt’s Fish Camp and Fish On,” he said. “Being able to tour the breweries, talk to the brewers and see their actual operation gives us a new appreciation for what these guys do and how hard they work to make their products great. That, in turn, makes our restaurants better.”

The next scheduled brewery trip is to Evolution Craft Brewing Company in Salisbury, Md., on Saturday, March 28. To schedule a Big Thunder visit or to find out when it will be in the area, email Jim Affeldt, SoDel Concepts director of operations, at jim@sodelconcepts.com.


Pet Corner: There’s nothing fishy about getting a finned pet

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Fish as pets? Yes! Fish make great pets for the entire family. One of the benefits of fish is that once you get them initially set up, there is minimal maintenance. Also, the initial cost can be kept down. You can even get started for about $100 or so. Also, fish are constantly active, which make them entertaining to look at.

When deciding on fish, you basically have three types to choose from. The least expensive are goldfish types of fish. These are coldwater fish, which means no heater is needed. There are even different varieties of goldfish to choose from. Generally, goldfish do not multiply in a pet tank, which means no little babies to watch. It also means no overcrowding or excess fish.

Goldfish are a dirtier fish, so there is a little more maintenance. The filter will need to be cleaned and changed more often. Also, goldfish can grow to a substantial size, requiring either a larger tank or very limited number of fish in your tank. Goldfish make great pond fish, so if you have an outdoor pond, you can grow your goldfish indoors and then transfer them outside in the spring and get some new smaller ones for your tank.

Next would be saltwater fish. To be honest, if you have never had fish, I would not recommend these. Saltwater fish are generally the most expensive and require a great deal of prep work and continual maintenance. Saltwater fish are more for the experienced fish owner. The fish are beautiful, yes, but they come with a hefty price. Generally, you would not want to start with a smaller tank, like a 10-gallon tank. The fish are also more expensive. The supplies, such as filters, lighting, chemicals, etc., also can add up quickly.

Also, you want to start slowly with your saltwater tank. First set up the tank and let it run empty for several days or more. Then add one fish and then wait a few weeks. If that fish stays healthy, add one more. Wait a few weeks, then add another fish. Many people will even buy a few “practice” fish and then later replace them with the fish they actually want, due to the high cost of saltwater fish. If you lose a saltwater fish, it can be a major hit.

Freshwater tropical fish are an ideal choice, in my opinion. They are a minimal investment, or you can also go high-end. You can start with a small 10-gallon tank or 55 gallons or more. You will need a heater with these types of fish. Many of these fish are also live bearers and will multiply easily in your pet tank. They come in such a wide range of colors and sizes — the sky’s the limit.

The first thing is to decide what type of tropical you want to go with, and that can help to determine your tank size. The best thing to do to help you decide is to go to several pet stores that carry fish and look at all of the fish. Once you find several that you are interested in, ask a salesperson to help you.

Take a notepad with you. Write down the types of fish they each are and the specific names of those fish. Ask which ones on your list get along together. Some fish do well in community tanks; others do not. Some like acidic water; others don’t. There are even different water temperatures some fish require. Adding live plants can even make the tank more attractive.

Fish tanks can add to your home décor, or they can simply be a small tank in your child’s room. The sky is the limit when it comes to your fish tank. You can even have a tank custom-made for your particular needs and desires.

So, head out to a pet store with fish and start choosing which ones you want. Remember to ask lots of questions. Go back home and do some homework and research. Then, plan where you will put your tank. If you are buying a larger type of tank, do some shopping around. You might be able to pick up a floor model or discontinued style. Then, go home, set it up, and relax and enjoy your new tank.

Cheryl Loveland is a dog groomer, pet-sitter, dog trainer and fosterer for many unwanted animals. She does rescue work for all types of animals and has owned or fostered most types of domestic animals and many wild ones. She currently resides with her bloodhound, which she has shown in conformation and is currently training for search-and-rescue work. Also residing with her are a bichon frisée, two cats and two birds. She welcomes comments, questions and suggestions for future articles at countryservice@comcast.net. Remember, she is not an expert: she offers her opinions and suggestions from her experience and research.

South Bethany police officer recognized for solving burglary case

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Coastal Point • Laura Walter : For solving the crime and aiding the victim, South Bethany’s Cpl. Mark Burton recently received a Certificate of Commendation. Here, pictured is Burton, left, with South Bethany Police Chief Troy Crowson.Coastal Point • Laura Walter : For solving the crime and aiding the victim, South Bethany’s Cpl. Mark Burton recently received a Certificate of Commendation. Here, pictured is Burton, left, with South Bethany Police Chief Troy Crowson.One of the most fearful moments of Kathy Jankowski’s life was discovering that someone had broken into her home.

In a letter to the South Bethany Town Council, the former mayor described how quickly Cpl. Mark Burton had responded to her house, done his job and calmed her down. She called him a “knight in shining armor [who] made me feel safe enough to stay in my house that night.”

Between overwhelming evidence and Burton’s diligence, officials said, the South Bethany Police Department solved the burglary case and recovered the stolen items. In honor of the job well done, Burton received a Certificate of Commendation at the December town council meeting.

Burton had visited four pawnshops, searching the inventory data for hours, “and I do mean hours,” said Police Chief Troy Crowson. That’s before the Internet searches began, including on eBay and Craigslist.

They found the stolen goods and identified the sellers, and a suspect was apprehended less than 24 hours after the warrant was issued. He’d been to the house legally before, with someone who had been contracted to do work. He was not a contractor himself, officials said. His arrest also led police to two more accomplices.

Between security footage, a 3 a.m. hotel raid, confessions from suspects and one suspect voluntarily turning himself in, the SBPD found the perpetrators in two weeks.

“The case is moving very smoothly forward,” Burton said. “We’ve overwhelmed them with evidence.”

They also recovered items the victim didn’t realize were stolen.

“It’s not uncommon for a victim to call us seven months later and tell us, ‘I’m missing my mother’s diamond bracelet,’” Crowson said.

“I feel it is important for the community to know we have this caliber … on our police force,” Jankowski wrote.

More than two dozen new ham radio operators become licensed

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The Sussex Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) offered a ham radio technician class on Dec. 6-7, at Sussex Technical High School in Georgetown.

The objective of the class is to provide a course to assist those interested in obtaining an amateur radio (ham radio) Federal Communications Commission (FCC) -issued license. The course reviews the questions likely to be included on the licensing test, which is composed of 35 questions drawn from a pool of more than 300 possible questions.

The course is taught by local amateur radio operators and is offered several times a year. The class ends with the administration of the FCC license exam, and those who pass the exam are issued a license by the FCC. The Dec. 6-7 class scored a 96 percent passing rate, yielding 25 new amateur radio operators in Sussex County. The class typically yields a 96 percent passing rate.

The next class has not yet been scheduled, but those interested in attending the next class once a date is set can contact Dell Palmer (K3AXR) at k3axr@arrl.net.

ARES provides emergency and public service communications and conducts practice drills by providing communications support to local events such as marathon runs and other community activities. During hurricane Irene, ARES had more than 60 amateur radio operators deployed throughout the area to provide emergency communications support.

Lewes poet publishes first book

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Irene Fick’s first poetry collection, “The Stories We Tell,” has recently been published by the Broadkill River Press. The Lewes poet’s book is available through the publisher’s website at www.thebroadkillriverpress.com and is being sold at Browseabout Books in Rehoboth Beach.

“Irene Fick is a writer of observation, but more, of felt life,” said reviewer Grave Cavalieri, producer/host of “The Poet and the Poem” from the Library of Congress.

Fick writes poetry that spans a landscape including Brooklyn, New York; San Francisco; and Chicago. She peppers her writing characters including an array of aunts, uncles and cousins. Fick describes summer vacations to her extended family in Brooklyn, growing up Catholic in the Midwest, compelling family dynamics; struggles with aging, dementia, terminal illness and loss of faith. Yet, there is humor throughout the collection, with the tone varying from solemn to ironic.

“The book left me wanting more,” said one reader. “I loved the honesty and mixture of humor with sadness, grief and even anger.”

Although Fick has “dabbled” with poetry throughout her life, she said, she began writing seriously in 2010 after retirement from a long career in journalism and public affairs. During the past four years, her poetry has been published in Beach Life, Philadelphia Stories, The Broadkill Review and other national and regional journals.

Fick is active in the Rehoboth Beach Writers’ Guild, as well as Coastal Writers, a critique group that meets at the Rehoboth Art League.

Samaritan Thrift Shop wraps up another successful year of community giving

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Coastal Point • Laura Walter : Volunteers are all smiles at the end of another day at Samaritan Thrift Shop. Pictured, from left, are: front row, Ellen Rankin, and Ruth and Charlie Sheaffer; back row, Pat Plocek, John Regan, Sharon Page, Linda Lewis and Theo Brans.Coastal Point • Laura Walter : Volunteers are all smiles at the end of another day at Samaritan Thrift Shop. Pictured, from left, are: front row, Ellen Rankin, and Ruth and Charlie Sheaffer; back row, Pat Plocek, John Regan, Sharon Page, Linda Lewis and Theo Brans.When Pat Plocek considers the fact that Samaritan Thrift Shop gave the community $48,000 this year, he can only say, “That’s a lot of $1 and $2 pieces of clothing.”

Located in a simple Route 54 warehouse in Williamsville, the nonprofit shop is pleasant. Music is playing, clothes and jewelry are displayed, and Christmas decorations softly light the shop.

Just because they pay less, shoppers shouldn’t have less of a retail experience, said Plocek, who is serving as temporary manager.

“We’re here for the community. We’re not here to make money,” he said.

Samaritan Thrift Shop is ready in times of need. So, families suffering house fires can request a recommendation from their churches to shop Samaritan Thrift Shop for free.

But low-priced items are available for anyone on a tight budget.

“We get constant donations, luckily. It takes a lot of items to add up to that,” Plocek said. “Right now, we’ve got jeans for a dollar.”

The store would rather sell overstocked items than pack them up, so the shoppers benefit. Christmas items are already discounted at 75 percent off.

For $5, people might find a name-brand sweater that retails for $50.

“I think everybody’s appreciated the value of what we’ve got in here,” Plocek said.

People can make their house a home with tools, bicycles, furniture and kitchen goods from dishware to bread makers. There are shoes, baby items, housewares, books, movies and games.

Volunteers lightly refinish or repair furniture as needed. Plocek pointed to two glass-top tables that were just delivered 30 minutes earlier.

The thrift shop does not consign, but sometimes privately sells or auctions high-dollar goods. That means the donations truly get the best bang for the buck.

The donations are based on the community’s generosity.

After expenses, all Samaritan profits are directly donated. This year, several food banks got $7,500 each; the Pyle Center’s energy fuel assistance got $15,000; Neighbors Helping Neighbors got $3,000 to help families get back on their feet; and the reserve fund always holds money for major emergencies, such as when a food pantry is in trouble.

Samaritan Thrift Shop doesn’t waste anything that it can’t use. Old clothes and shoes are recycled; sweat clothes go to Shriner burn units; old towels to the SPCA; partial bottles of shampoo and bar-logo T-shirts to international students working at the beach.

“We don’t get anything for it, but at least it’s not going in the landfill,” he said.

The warehouse has grown since the mission began under St. Matthews By-the-Sea United Methodist Church about seven years ago. Samaritan Thrift Shop moved to its current location within the last four years and has expanded to fill the entire building.

There are two part-time paid positions. Everyone else volunteers in three-hour shifts. They don’t have to be affiliated with the church to volunteer.

“We are always looking for volunteers — especially this time of year,” when older volunteers fly south for the winter, said Plocek.

He thanked everyone involved, from the volunteers (“Without their help, we couldn’t do any of this”) to the people who bring donations (“Without the donations, we wouldn’t have anything to sell”).

“I think a lot of the thrift shops are hidden treasures,” said John Regan, marveling at the deals people find.

“Keep coming back,” Theo Brans said, noting that there’s always something new and different.

“We’d love for more people to come out and find the store,” Plocek said. “The more we sell, the more we can give back to the community.”

When they leave each day, the volunteers feel better for serving a good cause.

“And they have fun,” Plocek said.

“We’ve known each other a long time,” Regan said. “It’s a very nice group of people.”

Samaritan Thrift Shop is located in Wiliamsville Industrial Park on Route 54, between Selbyville and the Route 17 intersection. It is open Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon. Call (302) 436-5526 for more information.

Millville fire memorial is a gift for all by one

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Coastal Point • Laura Walter: In donating a new firefighter memorial to Millville Volunteer Fire Company, Denise Santa Barbara honored her late husband with her children, Heather and Paul IV.Coastal Point • Laura Walter: In donating a new firefighter memorial to Millville Volunteer Fire Company, Denise Santa Barbara honored her late husband with her children, Heather and Paul IV.Although Millville’s newest monument was donated in one man’s name, the granite stone honors all past firefighters.

The Santa Barbara family donated a new firefighter memorial to Millville Volunteer Fire Company, honoring their late husband and father, Paul J. Santa Barbara III. He served MVFC as a member and safety officer until his 2012 death at the age of 63.

Every volunteer firefighter who serves Millville will be forever memorialized at the fire station.

“This … will provide a lasting memorial for all the men and women who have served Millville Volunteer Fire Company in the past, as well as today and in the future,” said Bob Powell, MVFC’s public information officer.

“I wanted to make a donation to the fire company, and I wanted it to be something, not just go to the general fund,” Denise Santa Barbara said. MVFC never had a memorial, so this was a perfect fit. “They give a lot of time. That’s a commitment for them, especially in today’s busy world.”

Positioned near the flagpole, the high-quality black granite comes from China, and the polished stone was engraved, with an American flag painted on top.

“Many [passers-by] will realize this stands for people who love their community and … whose sole desire is to protect their community,” said the Rev. Bob Hudson.

In New Castle County, Paul Santa Barbara III was a life member of Holloway Terrace and Christiana Volunteer Fire Departments.

MVFC President Clarke Droney remembers when Santa Barbara first applied to join the company. When Droney called north to get a recommendation, this is what he heard:

“’Every day that Paul Santa Barbara came to work … for over 28 years, every time he walked in that firehouse, he gave 110 percent,’” Droney was told.

He said Santa Barbara gave no less to Millville.

“Paul’s whole life revolved around the fire house,” Denise Santa Barbara said. “He loved firefighting. And he really loved driving the apparatus.

“I just wanted to give back to Millville for all that they have given me,” from support when her husband was ill to a full firefighter’s funeral when the time came.

“You thank us, but we wanna thank you for sharing him with us,” Hudson said. “If we would follow in his footsteps [of service and dedication] it would make us better firefighters.”

At his mother’s side, Santa Barbara recalled firefighting for years alongside his dad. That was their tradition, and part of the reason he has taken a break from fire service.

“It’s sad because he should be here. It hurts,” said the youngest Santa Barbara. “It was a terrible disease. We do the best we can to move on. [But] I don’t think there’s a fire department that wouldn’t honor him.”

“We’re so happy he has a permanent place here. He loved this place,” said Paul Santa Barbara III’s daughter, Heather Santa Barbara, who brought her own children to the dedication.

“Paul will never be forgotten. He will always be near and dear to our hearts,” Powell said.

Grab the golden shovel: Bethany eatery breaks ground

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Coastal Point • Laura Walter: People of all ages got Bethany Boathouse T-shirts as Brent Poffenberger, center, and Tom Neville broke ground on their new restaurant.Coastal Point • Laura Walter: People of all ages got Bethany Boathouse T-shirts as Brent Poffenberger, center, and Tom Neville broke ground on their new restaurant.Construction has begun on the Bethany Boathouse, the newest restaurant venture from Cottage Café business partners Tom Neville and Brent Poffenberger.

The building will be located just off Route 1, south of Bethany Beach, between Walgreens and CVS, sharing a parking lot with the latter. The casual design is reminiscent of the historical Indian River Life-Saving Station, and the gazebo that is part of the restaurant is being built partly over the existing stormwater retention pond, compensating for the small amount of land available for the structure and offering a waterfront view, despite the lack of waterway and dock space.

“Probably people are wondering where the Boathouse is gonna go! Now you know,” Poffenberger said of the site located across Route 1 from the Cottage Café.

“When anybody sees the first boat pull up to this spot, please take a picture,” joked State Sen. Gerald Hocker Sr. at the Dec. 4 ribbon-cutting for the eatery.

“It really got our creative juices going again. It’s gonna be totally different food,” Neville said.

The menu focuses on “really great fried chicken,” sandwiches, fresh fish and more, he explained.

State Rep. Ron Gray quipped that this could be a good backup for when he can’t get into Cottage Café. As a small-business owner, he said he understood the risk and the thrill of trying a new venture.

With a few pilings in place, construction was scheduled to really get going in December, with a grand opening in May.


‘Please — no gifts for Mrs. Claus!’

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Bethany hostess pays gifts forward to shelter animals

Coastal Point • Laura Walter: The Christmas tree at Jackie Boyd’s house looks pretty appetizing — for animals, that is.Coastal Point • Laura Walter: The Christmas tree at Jackie Boyd’s house looks pretty appetizing — for animals, that is.Jackie Boyd loves hosting holiday parties for her friends and neighbors. But cozily situated in Bethany Beach, she had to be honest about the hostess gifts.

“I don’t need one more candle, one more bottle of wine,” Boyd said. “I’d rather the money go to a good cause.”

Boyd wanted to give shelter animals some comfort. So, instead of bringing an appetizer, holiday guests have been bringing dog or cat food for the past four or five years.

“I really felt bad for our little furry friends, … the poor shelters, especially with the economy.”

The Boyds deliver everything to the House Pets donation box in Millville. What gets put in there is split between Delmarva Cat Connection, Worcester County (Md.) Humane Society and Kennille’s Kupboard, which gives pet food to families struggling to feed their pets.

Boyd heard there were a few tears when shelters saw the gifts. Her guests donated 300 pounds of food and items last year.

“They all send their dog food or cat food” — even the absentees, she said. “It’s a nice thing, and it’s a nice way to kick off the holiday season.”

Boyd loves animals, including her own shih tzu, Bella, and the late Buddy.

Boyd sent invitations from herself, “Mrs. Claus” and Bella.

“Bella is asking that you bring dog or cat food so she can give to her friends in need,” the invitation read. “Please — no gifts for Mrs. Claus!”

“It’s a wonderful idea,” said guest Mary Van Scoyoc. “At this time of the year, you know there are people who are [needy], but you don’t think about God’s other creatures.”

“People entertain a lot at this time of year,” Boyd said. “It’s so easy” to collect for pet shelters, food pantries or women’s shelters.

Boyd has made a habit of entertaining with some philanthropy. She collects donations during her parties for the Super Bowl and Cinco de Mayo, as well as doing Lunch With a Purpose fundraisers.

“We all love to get together,” Van Scoyoc said. “We’re grateful we’re invited. … This is a happy event.”

Community members invited to plunge into 2015

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Coastal Point • File Photo: People have literally gone ‘head over heels’ for the Exercise Like the Eskimos event in Bethany Beach over the years.Coastal Point • File Photo: People have literally gone ‘head over heels’ for the Exercise Like the Eskimos event in Bethany Beach over the years.This New Year’s Day, many people will flock to the beach in order to participate in the time-honored tradition of taking the plunge into the Atlantic Ocean to ring in 2015.

On Jan. 1, the Town of Fenwick Island will hold the Fenwick Freeze at the beach just off Bayard Street.

Those who wish to participate may on the register day of the event, between 9 a.m. and 10 a.m. The cost is $25 per person, and participants will receive a Fenwick Freeze beach towel. Everyone will run into the ocean at 10:30 a.m.

Now in its 11th year, the Freeze supports the Fenwick Island Lifeguard National Competition Fund.

Tim Ferry, captain of the Fenwick Island Beach Patrol, said the swim used to support both the beach patrol and Sussex County EMS teams but now solely donates the money to the patrol.

“With the success the beach patrol was having on the competitive level and sending more people to the championships — to the regionals and nationals — it got very expensive,” explained Ferry, adding that the national competitions switch from East Coast to West Coast each year. “It could be in Florida. It could be in California. It could be a very expensive trip.”

Ferry said the competitions are a great way for the guards to showcase their skills.

“We’ve been extremely successful,” he said. “For probably the last eight years we have been one of the top three teams in the country.”

The town council, town manager and beach committee have all been incredibly supportive of the patrol, said Ferry, for which he is grateful.

“The Town has supported us 110 percent in providing the guards with what we need to do our job properly and at the highest level,” he said. “The beach committee have been another integral part of the success of the beach patrol and the fundraising aspect… They’ve done just a great job in providing support for us. It’s been a team effort, and we couldn’t ask for anything more than what they’ve done.”

Ferry said approximately 150 people participate in the Freeze every year. Last year, six of his guards joined the crowd in jumping into the ocean.

“I think it’s a great way to support local causes and find a different way to ring in the New Year. It’s a good time for all.”

Ferry said he looks forward to seeing everyone at the Freeze and marking the start of the New Year.

“As soon as the Freeze is over, we’ll be looking forward to summer 2015,” he noted.

Soon after the Fenwick Freeze, the Bethany-Fenwick Chamber of Commerce will commence the 19th annual Leo Brady Exercise Like the Eskimos ocean plunge in Bethany Beach.

Online registration for the Eskimos event closes Monday, Dec. 29, at noon. Those willing to brave the chilly waters may check in or complete day-of registration from 7 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at the registration tent on the bandstand, with a plunge time of noon.

The Bethany plunge raises money for the Quiet Resorts Charitable Foundation (QRCF), the Chamber’s charitable arm, which provides “financial aid, resources and other assistance in support of programs, individuals and organizations” that enhance the entire community.

The event raises $3,000 to $5,000 annually for QRCF to donate back to the community.

“We’ve had anywhere from our largest group of over 600 plungers to 350. It’s really based on the time of the week that the holiday falls on,” explained Lauren Weaver, event and member relations manager for the Chamber.

Individuals can register as part of a team — commercial, noncommercial or student groups — and compete to see who will win the Iceberg Trophy awarded to the team with the highest number of participating team members. In order to participate, plungers may only wear bathing suits into the ocean — no wetsuits or street clothes.

“South Bethany has a team. There’s Team Neptune in Frankford,” said Weaver. “The Freezin’ Indians is one of our student groups. Of course, our presenting sponsor, Cottage Café — Team Cottage — they bring in the largest team every year, because they have all the festivities in the morning before the actual plunge.”

Weaver said the event draws participants of all ages, all of whom have a great time.

“You’ll see families come out and they’ll have shirts made or banners… A lot of people have different philosophies behind it. Some people run in and run out, other people kind of splash around in there. A lot of people look at it as a cleansing or a New Year purge. Other people think it’s really good for you.

“There’s a family from Fifth Street — they paddle up in their wetsuits and kayaks and do a countdown from the water. It’s a really good time.”

In conjunction with the plunge, the Hair of the Dog 5K/10K will be held New Year’s morning.

Those who wish to register for the run may do so that morning beginning at 7 a.m. on the bandstand. Walkers and runners with dogs may only participate in the 5K. People of all ages may participate, and more than a dozen awards will be presented following the completion of the races.

“It’s a great tradition, and we’re really looking forward to doing it again this year, especially in collaboration with the Hair of the Dog,” said Weaver, noting that joint registration is also available to those who wish to both run and plunge. “It’s just from one event to the next — it just flows. You can make it an all-day event or just do one or the other.”

Weaver said she hopes the event will be a success and that many residents and visitors will chose to ring in the New Year in Bethany Beach.

“Anyone looking to have fun that’s in the area and wants to start the year off right, come take a plunge in the ocean.”

For more information on the Fenwick Freeze, visit www.fenwickisland.org/index.aspx?NID=872 or call (302) 539-3011. For more information on the Exercise Like the Eskimos and Hair of the Dog, visit hairofthedogrun.com. All the events will take place rain or shine.

Alesi hosting open mic evening in Rehoboth Beach

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Singer and songwriter Melissa Alesi has been a staple in the local music scene for the past few years and has recently taken over hosting an open-mic night at Casa Dileo restaurant in Rehoboth Beach.

“It’s been going really well,” said Alesi. “We just started a couple months ago, and last week I think we had maybe nine to 12 musicians sign up.”

Alesi said the restaurant has hosted open-mic nights on and off for years; however, they just recently began hosting them again.

“My friend Regina was up from Florida visiting, and she asked if she could start one. She was only here a few weeks before she had to go back, and I offered to take it over,” she explained.

Alesi said the open-mics, held every Wednesday night from 8 to 11 p.m., are different from others in the area.

“I feel like it’s a very warm, welcoming environment. It’s not restricted to solo/duo players, but it’s kind of more of a listening-type open-mic night. I think people feel more comfortable sharing their originals,” she said. “We have a lot of people that come out every single week. That’s been cool. It’s kind of like a little family almost.”

Alesi is a contemporary singer-songwriter who fuses folk, alternative and a bit of country into her music, and she has released two albums, “Alesi” and “House of Stones.” She said that open-mics offer a variety of music that everyone can enjoy.

“We have people who perform ’60s/’70s music and people who are 20 years old singing the newer country style. We have a steel drum player that comes out every week, so there’s a little something for everyone.”

Open-mic nights are how Alesi got her start in the local music scene, and she noted that is true of many other local musicians.

“There are a couple other guys there, a duo — they booked their first gig through this open-mic night. I think it gives people a chance to share their music and get out in front of people if you’re new to the whole music scene.”

Those who attend to listen and enjoy can take advantage of Casa Dileo’s pasta night and half-price bottles of wine special.

Alesi said those who wish to perform do not need to bring any equipment, other than their instrument. To sign up, they may contact her on Facebook or sign up that night.

“It think it’s a really important part of the local music scene, as far as getting started and meeting new people,” she said of open-mic nights. “You get to meet a lot of local musicians, which isn’t something you really get to do. You get to sit in and enjoy other people’s music. That has been really cool to experience.”

Casa Dileo is located at 721 Rehoboth Avenue in Rehoboth Beach. For more information about Alesi and the Casa Dileo open-mic night visit www.melissaalesi.com or message her at www.facebook.com/mmalesi.

Going out for New Year’s Eve? Plenty of options

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For those ready to celebrate New Year’s Eve with a night on the town, local restaurants have got things covered. (Reservations are recommended for all the events, and some spots are filling up fast.)

Cottage Café has a party featuring D.J. Bump, from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. Just south of Bethany Beach, it’s also the official after-party site for the Leo Brady Exercise Like the Eskimos ocean plunge taking place downtown on New Year’s Day.

Dickens Parlour Theatre in Millville has an afternoon performance scheduled, with “magic, mirth and munchies.” Show tickets include hors d’oeuvres, beverages and champagne. Owner Rich Bloch and other magicians will entertain at the tables, in addition to the main stage show.

DiFebo’s restaurant in Bethany Beach has three seatings, plus a champagne toast.

The Fat Tuna in Millville has live music, party favors and champagne at midnight. Drink specials, dinner combos and the regular menu are available.

Harpoon Hanna’s, just south of Fenwick Island, has an option for those who like to fly by the seat of their pants — no reservations or cover necessary. D.J. Jon Boi will spin at 9 p.m.

Just Hooked in Fenwick Island and Off the Hook in Bethany Beach both have several specials to choose from, plus a midnight champagne toast.

Mango’s goes all night at its location on the boardwalk in Bethany, with a dinner package and live music. Drinks are included. Call for details.

Mio Fratello in West Fenwick has three seatings, with 9 p.m. entertainment by Mario Rocco.

Parkway’s bash in downtown Bethany includes a special menu and reservations every half-hour. Party favors are included.

Just down the street, Patsy’s will have two seatings and a special à la carte menu. Guests will be home in time to see the ball drop.

Perucci’s in Millville also has two seatings and a special planned menu, which includes beverages and a glass of wine.

The Salted Rim in Ocean View is open until 1 a.m. with a D.J. and party favors.

Families may also enjoy a late holiday celebration of “The Polar Express,” with four showings from noon to 3 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. Tickets include a movie showing on the Salted Rim trains, holiday dinner buffet, hot chocolate with Santa and special gifts.

Sedona has a party package deal after 8:30 p.m. for people to dine and dance in the new year in downtown Bethany. Party favors are included.

Also in downtown Bethany, Bethany Blues is now accepting reservations for the evening, and Nantucket’s in West Fenwick and Turquoise, just south of Bethany Beach, are now accepting reservations.

Anyone who doesn’t see their favorite restaurant listed above should contact them for more information on what may be on offer for a happy New Year’s Eve.

OVP&Z approves Silverstock annexation conditions, Royal Farms air pump location

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The Ocean View Planning & Zoning Commission voted 3-0 this week to recommend Ocean View Town Council to amend the conditions of approval for lands owned by Silverstock LLC to be annexed into the town.

Administrative Official Charles McMullen stated that when a residential planned community (RPC) is created, either through change of zoning approval or annexation, conditions are normally imposed, such as lot lines and setbacks.

In the Silverstock annexation, McMullen said, no special conditions were imposed for setbacks. The proposed conditions for the lots include 20-foot front and rear yard setbacks, along with a five-foot side yard setback. Additionally, wells would not be permitted on individual lots.

The commission voted unanimously to recommend the ordinance to council.

The commission on Dec. 18 also approved a request to amend a previously approved land development plan for the Royal Farms located on Atlantic Avenue.

In the original plan, said McMullen, a free air pump station was not included; therefore, the commission would need to approve its current location in order for the pump to remain.

Garth Jones of the Becjer Morgan Group, who submitted the request, acknowledged that the lack of the pump on the original plan was an oversight on their part.

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