Letters from CAMP Rehoboth, Vol. 33, No. 7

CREATING A MORE POSITIVE REHOBOTH

SUNFESTIVAL 2023

Sounds of Summer Fried Oreos, Anyone?

August 18, 2023

Volume 33, Number 7 camprehoboth.com

Remembering Natalie Moss, see page 12.

46

Letters from CAMP Rehoboth welcomes submissions. Email editor@camprehoboth.com.

Photographs must be high resolution (300 dpi). Documents should be sent as attachments in Microsoft Word®. Deadline for submissions is two weeks prior to the issue release date.

EDITOR Marj Shannon

EDITORIAL ASSOCIATE Matty Brown

DESIGN AND LAYOUT Mary Beth Ramsey

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Tricia Massella

DISTRIBUTION Mark Wolf

CONTRIBUTORS: Ann Aptaker, Chris Azzopardi, Rich Barnett, John Beckley, Matty Brown, Ed Castelli, Pattie Cinelli, Wes Combs, Michael Cook, Robert Dominic, Clarence Fluker, Michael Thomas Ford, David Garrett, Fay Jacobs, Tom Kelch, Kathleen Lehmann, Tricia Massella, Sharon Morgan, Eric Peterson, Mary Beth Ramsey, Nancy Sakaduski, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Peter Schott, Marj Shannon, Tara Sheldon, Leslie Sinclair, Mary Jo Tarallo, Eric Wahl

Letters from CAMP Rehoboth is published 11 times per year, between February and December, as a program of CAMP Rehoboth Inc., a non-profit community service organization. CAMP Rehoboth seeks to create a more positive environment of cooperation and understanding among all people. Revenue generated by advertisements supports CAMP Rehoboth’s purpose as outlined in our mission statement.

The inclusion or mention of any person, group, or business in Letters from CAMP Rehoboth does not, nor is it intended in any way, to imply sexual orientation or gender identity. The content of the columns are the views and opinions of the writers and may not indicate the position of CAMP Rehoboth, Inc.

© 2023 by CAMP Rehoboth, Inc. All rights reserved by CAMP Rehoboth. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of the editor.

CAMP REHOBOTH MISSION STATEMENT AND PURPOSE

MISSION

CAMP Rehoboth, which stands for (Creating A More Positive) Rehoboth, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit LGBTQ+ community service organization. It is the largest and only organization of its type serving the needs of LGBTQ+ people in Rehoboth, greater Sussex County, and throughout the state of Delaware. CAMP Rehoboth is dedicated to creating a positive environment inclusive of all sexual orientations and gender identities in Rehoboth Beach and its related communities. It seeks to promote cooperation and understanding among all people as they work to build a safer community with room for all.

VISION

We create proud and safe communities where gender identity and sexual orientation are respected.

PURPOSE

Promoting the health and wellness of our community through a variety of programs including HIV testing and counseling, mental health support, fitness classes, mindfulness classes, support for LGBTQ youth, and building community and support.

Promoting artistic expressions and creative thinking, and giving aid to artists and craftspeople with an emphasis on the works of LGBTQ people.

Advocating for our community to build a safe and inclusive community through voter information, education, and registration; and analysis of issues and candidates.

Education and outreach to the larger community, including sensitivity training seminars, and printed materials to promote positive images of LGBTQ people and our allies.

Networking resources and information by publishing a newsletter, and functioning as an alternative tourist bureau and information center.

From the Editor

BY MARJ SHANNON, EDITOR

And, just like that—it’s August! Incredibly, we’re ushering out the summer season it seems we ushered in just a few minutes ago….

But hey! CAMP Rehoboth has you covered for a way to bid adieu to summer in style: SUNFESTIVAL! Part entertainment, part auction, part dance—and all great fun. Join us at the Convention Center over Labor Day weekend for a wonderful farewell to summer. Want to know more? Details start on page 8.

Of course, we can’t mention “auction” without tipping our hats to CAMP Rehoboth’s long-time auction organizer extraordinaire, Natalie Moss. There’s a tribute to Natalie, who also was a founding CAMP Rehoboth Board member and served for decades as Treasurer, on page 12. Give it a read and come away inspired.

This issue includes lots of ideas about how you might want to enjoy what remains of summer—have you seen Barbie yet? Chris Azzopardi tells us just how gay the movie is. (We already knew it was pink!) Matty Brown went to Beyoncé’s Renaissance concert—see his (enthusiastic) report in “Hear, Hear!” Mary Jo Tarallo and David Garrett have been enjoying some music performed by local girl groups—they profile four of them, starting on page 74.

Maybe you’re ready for something indoors, out of the sun? Drop by the CAMP Rehoboth Gallery to browse an exhibit comprising works by the winners of the Delaware Division of the Arts’ 2023 Fellowship awards. It’s an eclectic group of artists—and a fascinating group of pieces.

Or hang out in your kitchen on August 26—National Dog Day—and try Ed Castelli’s recipe (page 64) for some special biscuits he’ll be baking for Atti, his beloved canine. You’ll want to treat your very good boy or girl, too.

Elsewhere in the pages of this magazine—remember the feature in our June issue on dragon boat racing? Reader Kathleen Lehmann read it and wrote to tell us about her own experiences on a racing team composed of breast cancer survivors. See “Going for the Pink” on page 40.

There’s lots more, too—Rich Barnett dropped by the Delaware State Fair; Clarence Fluker mulls Labor Day; Michael Cook and Robert Dominic got to interview some fascinating folks—Ross Matthews and Laura Terruso, respectively. Sharon Morgan offers some disaster preparedness tips and resources (September is Disaster Preparedness Month), and Nancy Sakaduski reports the (chilling) stats on suicide risk among Delaware’s LGBTQ+ teens.

Amanda

AT-LARGE DIRECTORS

Garrett, Kim Leisey (non-voting) Teri Seaton, and Jason D. White

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Kim Leisey

CAMP REHOBOTH

37 Baltimore Avenue, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 tel 302-227-5620 | email editor@camprehoboth.com

www.camprehoboth.com

So find some shade, grab something cold to drink, and browse our pages—there’s plenty to keep you engaged.

Comments or questions? You can reach me at editor@camprehoboth.com. ▼

be deducted to the fullest extent of the law. A copy of our exemption document is available for public inspection.

PRESIDENT Wesley Combs

VICE PRESIDENT Leslie Ledogar

SECRETARY Mike DeFlavia

TREASURER Jenn Harpel

Mahony Albanese, Pat Catanzariti, Lewis Dawley, David

Registration Open for Annual Block Party

OnSunday, October 15, CAMP Rehoboth’s annual Block Party returns to the second block of Baltimore Avenue. From 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., join local restaurants, caterers, businesses, nonprofits, and other organizations! Vendor registration and sponsorship opportunities are now available at camprehoboth.com/blockparty.

The event is CAMP Rehoboth’s largest annual outreach event. All ages are welcome. Admission is free but donations to benefit the CAMP Rehoboth Community Center are encouraged. An array of entertainment will take the stage in front of the CAMP Rehoboth Courtyard.

CAMP Rehoboth is committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive environment for all participants. If you plan on joining us for Block Party and have needs related to accessibility, please contact Hope@ camprehoboth.com. ▼

Thank You, Businesses, for Supporting CAMP Rehoboth!

CAMP Rehoboth extends its gratitude to the many businesses that this summer supported its mission to create a more positive environment for all sexual orientations and gender identities in Rehoboth Beach and beyond.

Big Chill Restaurant Group donated $1,000 to CAMP Rehoboth from Pride fundraisers that included drag shows at Big Chill Surf Cantina and a Dine & Donate night with Mama’s Black Sheep at Big Chill Beach Club. Pictured: Laurie Thompson, Tori Dalton, and Tara Sheldon.

Urban Float donated $500 to CAMP Rehoboth from new memberships acquired in June. Pictured: Amy Casas, Derrick Johnson, Laurie Thompson, Diane Winiarczy, and Alyssa Aswell.

Bin 66 held a wine tasting featuring a wine from Stolpman Vineyards in California called Crunchie Roastie. All profits throughout June for Crunchie Roastie benefited CAMP Rehoboth. Pictured: Riley Quinn, Derrick Kelley, Matty Brown, Laurie Thompson. ▼

CAMP Rehoboth Awarded Grant

InJuly, CAMP Rehoboth Community Center was awarded a $300,000 grant from the state of Delaware. The award is part of the General Assembly’s allocation within the bond bill’s Community Reinvestment Fund, a capital grant program for local and community-based nonprofit organizations.

The grant will allow CAMP Rehoboth to invest in high-priority capital repair projects at the center. The projects will allow CAMP Rehoboth to expand accessibility, enhance safety, increase sustainability, and improve efficiencies, all resulting in cost savings. Additionally, the award will enhance space used for the delivery of vital CAMP Rehoboth services, and include several other renovations aimed at preserving the integrity of the property.

Projected renovations include the installation of solar panels, automatic doors, a lift, and a highgrade security system. Further, several repairs/ upgrades are planned for the CAMPus, including new kitchens and bathrooms, and improved siding and awnings.

“CAMP Rehoboth is grateful for the State’s decision to invest in us and see us as a valuable resource in the community,” said Lisa Evans, Interim Deputy Director at CAMP Rehoboth. Kim Leisey, Executive Director at CAMP Rehoboth, said, “We are appreciative of the State’s support and look forward to the improvements which will allow us to continue serving others of all age ranges.”

Watch the CAMP Rehoboth website and social media to stay informed about how these projects will impact the center’s hours of operation. ▼

Imago Workshops Coming to CAMP Rehoboth

CAMP Rehoboth is excited to host first-time workshops with Maya Kollman, Master Imago Coach, the last weekend of September. First up, a singles workshop, “Keeping the Love You Find,” on Friday, September 28; next, a couples’ weekend workshop, “Getting the Love You Want,” on Saturday, September 29, and Sunday, October 1. To register, visit mayakollman.com. For more on Maya and her workshops, see Tara Sheldon’s piece on page 50. ▼

SPEAKOut

Passion Pride with Dogfish Head Throughout

the summer, Dogfish Head’s Beer and Benevolence program has been showing support for CAMP Rehoboth. First, in June, a portion of sales on the Pride t-shirts in the merch store (the aptly-named Off-Centered EmPOURium) benefited CAMP Rehoboth.

On August 4, Dogfish Head Brew Master, Brian Selders, and Head Brewer, Jake Leaf, invited CAMP Rehoboth Board member Teri Seaton, and Laurie Thompson, CAMP Rehoboth Development Manager, to participate in brewing the Passion Pride beer. “It was fascinating to see that brewing is a combination of high tech and manual processes,” said Laurie.

Two Beer and Benevolence nights have been planned at Dogfish Head restaurant in Rehoboth Beach: the first was on Wednesday, August 9, and the second will be on

Wednesday, August 23, from 4:00 p.m. to close (11:00 p.m.). For the latter, Passion Pride will be officially launched and available for purchase. A portion of the beer’s proceeds will be donated to CAMP Rehoboth. ▼ Pictured, L-R: Teri, Laurie, Jake

Bear Weekend Fun Ahead ⊲ Rehoboth Beach Bear Weekend is almost here!

From Wednesday, September 13, through Sunday, September 17, many activities are planned. Among them are the CAMP Rehoboth Bear Art Show, with a reception and happy hour planned for September 16, 3:00-7:00 p.m., at CAMP Rehoboth. Check out rehobothbeachbears.com for more information on premier events on Friday and Saturday nights. ▼

Join CAMP Rehoboth’s AIDS Walk Team

On Saturday, September 16, AIDS Walk Delaware returns to both Grove Park, Rehoboth Beach, and Brandywine Park, Wilmington, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. This year’s theme is “Reignite the Community.” The event is one of the biggest fundraisers for AIDS Delaware and the Delaware HIV Consortium, and CAMP Rehoboth is proud to once again be a sponsor.

Visit camprehoboth.com for more information, including how to join the CAMP Rehoboth team. ▼

Presenting The Bell in the Fog

CAMP Rehoboth is excited to once again partner with the History Book Festival. This year, CAMP Rehoboth will partner on Lev AC Rosen’s The Bell in the Fog, with a presentation planned for September 30. While Rosen’s first book, Lavender House, is available for purchase now, The Bell in the Fog will not hit stores until October 10. That marks Rosen’s presentation as an exclusive first look!

The festival runs September 29 through October 1 across various venues in Lewes. Stay tuned to historybookfestival.org for the lineup. ▼

Dear CAMP Rehoboth Community,

I would like to express my sincere appreciation to CAMP Rehoboth for the lovely tribute to Natalie Moss, and to the entire CAMP Rehoboth Community for the outpouring of love and support.

Natalie was a dedicated proponent of CAMP since its founding by Steve Elkins and Murray Archibald over 30 years ago. She served as Treasurer and Board member until December 2022. She handled all the financial aspects of CAMP Rehoboth, including bookkeeping and tax preparation, and was instrumental in securing CAMP buildings, mortgages, and grants.

In addition, Natalie volunteered for numerous CAMP Rehoboth events, particularly Sundance (now SUNFESTIVAL). Working in the back room of the Rehoboth Convention Center with her capable team of volunteers, each year she tallied the results of the silent auction.

Contributing to the success of CAMP Rehoboth was truly a labor of love for Natalie.

I know her legacy will live on in the hearts of all, for which I will be forever grateful.

– Evelyn Maurmeyer

Send letters to the editor (up to 300 words) to editor@ camprehoboth.com

President’s View

Safety and Security Know No Border

In my never-ending obsession with controlling the world around me, I like to be prepared for what lies ahead, especially when heading from our house in the Pines toward downtown to shop or dine in the summer. How crowded will it be? Can I snag a table without a reservation at Ava’s?

While my barometer is not scientific, there are certain reliable clues that factor into the assessment: 1) How far away from Rehoboth Avenue cars are parked on the street? If they are outside our backdoor, I know to expect lots of strollers and meandering families clogging the sidewalks. 2) The number of bikes passing by our kitchen window. Our house sits a few houses from Henlopen Avenue, which is now a bicycle thoroughfare for those heading to Gordon’s Pond. Vehicles weaving around lollygagging groups has become a dangerous sport of late.

3) Noise coming from two Airbnb homes nearby. For some reason, visitors in these mega-mansions seem to forget that they are staying in a quiet neighborhood—a huge pet peeve of mine.

On my many dog walks during the day, I also notice many of our neighbors in the Pines often leave their expensive bicycles unlocked in their driveways. They almost never lock their car or house doors. This constantly amazes me because living in Washington, DC, for more than 40 years taught me a valuable lesson: people steal things left unattended and accessible.

When I tell houseguests to keep their car and our house doors always locked, they usually look shocked because the Nation’s Summer Capital appears tranquil and safe. “You worry too much” is a common refrain. Unfortunately, being a gay, Jewish man in today’s world has trained me to prepare for the worst and hope for the best.

Sadly, I have personal experiences to back up this point of view. While living in DC, someone jumped over a wall to access our garage and stole items from my car which was unlocked at the time. After leaving a party at our house one night,

a friend was mugged a few steps from our front door. As street crime became more prevalent in our part of the city, we made the decision to install a security system with cameras. Most importantly, I am always aware of my surroundings day and night when walking, never taking my safety for granted.

BY WESLEY COMBS

We have not been immune to threats here in Rehoboth. During the 2020 election, someone entered our yard on two occasions and removed LGBTQ-themed Biden for President yard signs. Just last year, we were one of close to 200 homes in Rehoboth that woke up to find antisemitic flyers thrown into our yard from a passing car. In both cases, the culprits were not caught.

However, it was a gay bashing in 1991 where a good friend of ours was one of two gay men assaulted on Rehoboth Avenue on a summer Saturday night that was a gut punch. This occurred at a time when some full-time residents expressed their anti-gay sentiments in the form of bumper stickers reading, “Keep Rehoboth a Family Town.” A poor response from both city officials and the local police was one of the final straws for Steve Elkins and Murray Archibald when they founded CAMP Rehoboth.

Since that time, CAMP Rehoboth has established a close relationship with the Rehoboth Beach Police Department, helping to raise awareness about the harassment LGBTQ people experience while walking down the street, on the beach, and even when in some business establishments. Our relationship includes conducting sensitivity training for the city’s summer seasonal cadets for the past two decades, and—more recent-

ly—for Delaware Natural Resources and Environmental Control officers, and state park personnel as well.

Even though Delaware is one of 22 states that has passed hate crime legislation for crimes committed with bias toward particular characteristics like sexual orientation and gender identity, hate is alive and well locally and across the nation.

From June 2022 to April 2023, ADL and GLAAD tracked at least 356 incidents of anti-LGBTQ+ hate and extremism in the United States, according to a recent report. Of the 356 total incidents, there were 305 incidents of harassment, 40 incidents of vandalism, and 11 incidents of assault. These alarming statistics reinforce the importance of CAMP Rehoboth enhancing safety protocols on our campus and at our events.

Just three weeks after starting her job, Executive Director Kim Leisey met with Rehoboth Police Chief Keith Banks and City Manager Laurence Christian to discuss this growing epidemic of violence and understand how we can work together to keep our community safe. Kim’s 20 years of experience on the University of Maryland Baltimore County’s campus included convening the campus threat assessment team. That experience, combined with the city’s resources and expertise, will help CAMP Rehoboth implement immediate interventions while also developing a comprehensive plan.

I know my column this issue is not “light beach reading,” but safety is a topic that weighs heavily on the minds of CAMP Rehoboth staff, board, and volunteers. The safety and security of our community is a priority—and not just because it’s part of our mission and name (Create A More Positive Rehoboth). Stay safe out there, everyone.▼

Wesley Combs is CAMP Rehoboth Board President.

Unfortunately, being a gay, Jewish man in today’s world has trained me to prepare for the worst and hope for the best.

Going Once, Going Twice….

Do Well by Doing Good

These days there aren’t many ways your money can go farther—but here’s one: the SUNFESTIVAL Auction.

Thinking of taking a dream vacation? Longing for an original Murray Archibald painting? Loving the idea of a date night a month for a year? By winning one of the SUNFESTIVAL auction items, you not only get something you crave, but also have the satisfaction of seeing your money support the vital programs and services of CAMP Rehoboth.

This year’s SUNFESTIVAL Auction will take place at 7:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:30), Saturday, September 2, at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center as part of A Night of Comedy, Drag, and Song, featuring headliners Dixie Longate and Randy Roberts. It’s an opportunity to laugh, be entertained, and possibly end up with a great auction item.

Here are some of the items up for bid:

8-Day Dutch & Belgian Delights River Cruise for Two

(Aug.

5-12, 2024)

Picture you and a guest sailing for 7 nights/8 days on this 5-star river cruise, which will take you from vibrant Amsterdam through the lush landscapes and the kaleidoscopic colors of the Dutch and Belgium waterways. Explore historic windmills, Amsterdam’s canals, Ghent, Antwerp, Rotterdam, and so much more on the beautiful and intimate Amadeus Star (only 164 guests). Donated by Brand g.

Lisbon in Luxury (7-Night Stay +

Two

Business-Class Airfare Tickets)

You and a guest will fly business class to enjoy an exciting week-long stay at the extraordinary Ivens Autograph Hotel in Lisbon, the capital and largest city in Portugal. Explore fascinating architecture, historical landmarks, white sand beaches, and fantastic cuisine—all in a lively gay-friendly atmosphere. Donated by Danny Sebright.

Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta, Olivia Vacation for Two (Oct. 26 - Nov. 2, 2024)

For the best Halloween (and Dia de los Muertos!) of your life, bid to win this all-inclusive, all-indulgent oceanfront Olivia vacation at the lavish Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta, near Mexico’s most LGBTQ-friendly city—Puerto Vallarta! Relax on a beautiful beach and enjoy a beverage at the swim-up bar, rejuvenate at the Rock Spa or play all day, then dine and dance all night with rockstar entertainment. Donated by Olivia Cruises.

Choose Your Own Cruise on Celebrity

You have no concrete plans, but you DO know you want to get away? Then this item is for you! You and a guest will choose one itinerary from Bermuda, Caribbean, Europe, Panama Canal, West Coast/ Mexican Riviera Mexico, and Accent on Travel will help you plan the trip of your dreams on the award-winning luxury cruise line, Celebrity. Donated by Accent on Travel.

Original Art by Murray Archibald

The Biggs Museum of American Art just acquired an original work by artist and CAMP Rehoboth co-founder Murray Archibald, and you can, too. Murray created SOULMATE especially for SUNFESTIVAL. This remarkable 30” x 30” acrylic gouache and watercolor will be the only artwork in the SUNFESTIVAL live auction, and CAMP Rehoboth is eagerly awaiting its unveiling. Start seeking a special place where you can display this artwork and come ready with your winning bid! Donated by Murray Archibald.

Date Nights for a Year

You can have peace of mind knowing you don’t have to sit and decide where to go for date night for a whole year. This exceptional package includes a total of 12 gift cards from the Rehoboth area’s best and most fun restaurants, with each card valued between $150 and $200. Just close your eyes, pick a gift card, and your dinner plans are set. It doesn’t get much better than that!

Women’s FEST Premier Package, April 25 to 28, 2024

Be ready for an extraordinary experience with this 2024 Women’s FEST Premier Package. Over the Women’s FEST long weekend, April 25 to 28, 2024, you and three of your friends will be treated to an exclusive experience that includes four 2024 FEST Passes, tickets and premier seating to Women’s FEST events, entry to the dances, and access to the famous “Green Room” for a meet-and-greet with the headline entertainment, a stylish place to stay for four nights, and dining out options with five restaurant gift cards.

Cannondale Topstone Neo SL 2 eBike

Want to peddle around town and on the bike trails, but then be able to turn on the motor to get some help? Then this item is for you. The Cannondale Topstone Neo SL 2is a lightweight, capable, and versatile gravel ebike, with the power to chase horizons, explore routes less traveled or accelerate your daily routine. Donated by Seagreen Bicycles.

Don’t Forget the Dance Tickets

After the auction and the Night of Comedy, Drag, and Song, you won’t want to miss the SUNFESTIVAL Night of Dance on Sunday, September 3, starting at 7:00 p.m. This hugely popular annual event, held at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center, features world-class DJs/ producers, amazing light effects, and a dance floor second to none. This year, the Night of Dance will feature DJ Producer Robbie Leslie and DJ Producer Joe Gauthreaux. These world-class DJs will offer an unforgettable musical journey with classic mirror ball memories, dance floor anthems, and the latest club beats, all within a transformed Rehoboth Beach Convention Center, for the ultimate dance party to close out the summer.

Tickets and additional information are available at: camprehoboth.com/ sunfestival2023. ▼

DJ Robbie Leslie

DJ Joe Gauthreaux

The SUNFESTIVAL auction is a great way to snap up the trip or experience of a lifetime while supporting a great cause. For more information on the auction and a current list of items, including trip details, go to camprehoboth.com/sunfest2023live.

Teri Agosta

Tom Balling & Rex Varner

Carolyn Billinghurst & Carol Bresler

In Memory of Al Bulliner

Marc Cheron & Jon Dauphine

Lewis Dawley & Greg Becker

John Hackett & Thomas Newton

Chris Hughes & Kent Swarts

Kelly Johnson & Todd Gerdes

& Amanda Kaufman

Lay & Mari Blackburn

Gifford

A CAMP REHOBOTH LEGEND

Natalie Moss

Honored by Delaware House of Representatives for her CAMP Rehoboth Service

It’s not every day that former Speaker of the House Pete Schwartzkopf drops by with a tribute directly from the Delaware House of Representatives. But one day, in early June, that’s what Pete did.

The tribute came after CAMP Rehoboth’s Treasurer, Natalie Moss, stepped down from her all-volunteer position after more than 30 years in that indispensable role. Pete and Natalie’s colleagues understood the enormity of her donation of time and expertise and were delighted to see the milestone recognized by the Delaware House of Representatives.

According to the tribute, Natalie left an enduring legacy for CAMP Rehoboth with “work spanning the non-profit organization’s very early years and its growth and expansion into a full-service LGBTQ community center known as the heart of the community.

BY FAY JACOBS

Natalie’s thousands of volunteer hours are legendary and are responsible for much of the organization’s financial health. The Delaware House of Representatives extends its sincere gratitude.”

From detailed accounting reports to her penchant for recklessly bidding up live auction items, to the perfection of the Sundance/SUNFESTIVAL auction logistics, Natalie’s three-decade-long passion for CAMP Rehoboth and joy in her job made her a volunteer to both appreciate and emulate.

On Natalie’s way to her volunteer career with CAMP Rehoboth, she had a varied and impressive work history. She played saxophone and guitar in an all-women dance band, traveled up the ranks in the retail fashion industry, and— most famously—owned an ice cream shop called Temptations. Inspired by Oscar Wilde, the shop’s motto was “You can resist everything except Temptations’ homemade ice cream.” With her recipes featuring up to 17 percent butter fat, resistance was futile.

Natalie started visiting Rehoboth regularly in the late 1960s, camping in Cape Henlopen State Park. Tent camping turned into group-house life after Natalie came out of the closet—and began organizing group houses with her friends. She bought her first beach house in 1982.

At that same time, as owner of the ice cream store, she also worked a bit on the side helping people with their tax returns. Realizing she had an eye for business and a mind for numbers, she pursued her accounting degree at the University of Maryland.

After more than a decade of inventing recipes, scooping, and selling her icecream creations, meeting and greeting customers and building a successful business, Natalie sold Temptations and spent an entire summer in Rehoboth Beach. She discovered where she was always meant to be.

But it was a 1992 “wish list” blurb for a bookkeeper in Letters, a newsletter for the newly-born non-profit CAMP Rehoboth, which sealed the deal. Natalie volunteered to keep the books, which turned into an offer to be the CAMP Rehoboth treasurer, and the launch of a 30-year volunteer history.

Never one for all work and no play, Natalie and an enormous posse of friends staked out their weekend spot on the sand at the Gordon’s Pond beaches and held forth there for all to visit. Thanks to Natalie and her pals, over the many years of stake-outs on the sand, untold numbers of men and women were introduced to people who became lifelong friends. It was on the sand where Natalie met Evelyn Maurmeyer, her girlfriend of more than 30 years.

Following a progression experienced by many Rehoboth visitors, Natalie at first vacationed in shared summer rental housing. Her first beach home was out Route 24, followed by the purchase of a beach place in Eagles Landing. Her real estate adventures culminated in the design and construction of a beautiful, contemporary home in the Rehoboth Beach Yacht and Country Club. The house, featuring local artists’ works on the walls, was the site of many warm and wonderful gatherings of CAMP Rehoboth friends.

As a Certified Public Accountant with a growing practice, Natalie split her time between her home and her clients in suburban Washington, DC, and her beach home and CAMP Rehoboth responsibilities. Natalie, Evelyn, and their pups became full-timers at the beach in 2002.

For CAMP Rehoboth, she took on a multitude of tasks, including the financial aspects of the 501(c)3 designation, budgets, complex audits, real estate acquisitions, mortgage details, and much more. Keeping tabs on the fundraising for the community center buildings and overseeing the costs for repairs,

operations, and growth brought both challenges and innovative solutions.

In addition to working with numbers, Natalie was a driving force behind the decade-long Starburst Gayla New Year’s Eve party at the Convention Center. And for more than a quarter-century, she immersed herself in the summer-long job of cataloguing the over 600 Sundance auction items, and tracking them from display to sale to winning bidders. During the last week of August and first week of September each year, Natalie practically lived in the auction room at the convention center, surrounded by glorious artwork, furniture, jewelry, sculpture, clothing, and certificates for luxury trips and experiences—all generously donated to CAMP Rehoboth.

When asked why she had such a passion for CAMP Rehoboth, Natalie would always say “I love the people I work with,” most notably its founders, the late Steve Elkins and his husband Murray Archibald, plus decades of volunteer board members, a tiny staff, and huge roster of volunteers. “But most of all,” she was quick to add, “I love the good we bring to the community. Whether they know it or not, for gay people who retire here or come here in the summer, it is CAMP that has made Rehoboth the accepting community that it is.”

Clearly, the state legislature agreed, as its tribute to Natalie Moss and CAMP Rehoboth also included mention of CAMP Rehoboth’s mission “…to be inclusive of all sexual orientations and gender identities…seeking cooperation and understanding among all people to build a safer community with room for all.”

And Natalie Moss spent over 30 years and inestimable hours as a Certified Public Accountant and passionate advocate for making that happen. ▼

Whether they know it or not, for gay people who retire here or come here in the summer, it is CAMP that has made Rehoboth the accepting community that it is.”

CROP Assists at the Annual Cottage Tour

CROP was honored to be asked by the Rehoboth Art League (RAL) to provide volunteer docents for their annual Cottage Tour, which returned to in-person tours this year. And CROP answered the call.

On July 11 and 12, 14 volunteers, including four other community members, were assigned a beautiful home in Canal Corkran. CROP leaders held training sessions ahead of time, and all docents were ready and eager to tell patrons about the home’s features, notable artworks, and unique furniture pieces and antiques.

Over 700 people enjoyed seeing and hearing about the home over the two days. This was a first-time CROPortunity, and RAL is looking forward to CROP returning next year. Many thanks to both docent teams! ▼

CROP Returns to the Food Bank

OnJuly 11, 10 CROP volunteers made their bi-monthly visit to Food Bank of Delaware in Milford. Tasks performed included sorting donated products into various food categories and preparing boxes of food donations for distribution throughout the Food Bank’s network to provide for Delaware’s families in need. ▼

WE’RE HIRING! Check out camprehoboth.com/employment for a new job position—Health and Wellness Specialist. The Health and Wellness Specialist coordinates and provides HIV education, testing, and distribution of materials in Rehoboth and at several locations in western Sussex County. Deadline for cover letters/resumes is September 1. ▼

WANTED! Sea Witch Parade Float Coordinator

CAMP Rehoboth is seeking creative and organized volunteers to help with this year’s Sea Witch Parade float. Last year’s theme was “Love in the Pumpkin Patch,” and the CAMP Rehoboth float earned a trophy for placing as one of the judges’ favorites.

The Sea Witch Parade will be held on Saturday, October 29, and will sprawl across Rehoboth Avenue. Hundreds of visitors descend on the city to celebrate the holiday, and CAMP Rehoboth is excited to once again join the community for this spectacular festival!

To help CAMP Rehoboth with coordinating the parade’s efforts, email volunteer@ camprehoboth.com. ▼

Program Spotlight!

CAMP

Rehoboth is excited to welcome several programs returning to the Elkins-Archibald Atrium.

First, Beat the Meter Tai Chi returned last week, and will continue Wednesday mornings at 8:30 a.m. at least through the end of September. Tai Chi is a Chinese martial art and system of calisthenics, consisting of sequences of very slow, controlled movements. The classes are led by Master Trainer Marianne Walch, PhD, the Co-Director of the Silver Lotus Training Institute.

Second, A Matter of Balance will return to CAMP Rehoboth on Thursday mornings, from 9 :00-11:00 a.m., from September 14 through November 2. The free program is presented by Delaware State’s Volunteer 50+ program. For more information on these programs, and to register, visit camprehoboth.com. ▼

CAMP News continued on page 34

CAMP REHOBOTH THANKS OUR 2023 ANNUAL SPONSORS

For information on how to become a CAMP Rehoboth Annual Sponsor, email development@camprehoboth.com or call 302-227-5620.

San Diego to Mexico Cruise

Apr 13-20, 2024 | $400 OFF PP

Cancún, Mexico Resort

May 18-25, 2024 | $500 OFF PP

Majestic Alaska Cruise

Sep 21-28, 2024 | $400 OFF PP

Olivia congratulates Dr. Kim Leisey, CAMP Rehoboth's new Executive Directer.

Best wishes, good luck, enjoy the journey — we're glad to have you onboard!

Music of the Night

Letyoursoultakeyouwhereyoulongtobe…

Featuring the songs: Moondance, Fly Me to the Moon, A Hard Day’s Night, In the Still of the Nite, Another Saturday Night, Mister Sandman, Dancin’ in the Moonlight, Blue Moon, Walkin’ After Midnight, Old Devil Moon, Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow – andmore!

September 29 – 7p.m.

September 30 – 7p.m.

Epworth United Methodist

October 1 – 3p.m.

19285 Holland Glade Road Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971

Tickets - $25 camprehoboth.com – under the “Events” tab

CAMP Rehoboth Chorus is a program of CAMP Rehoboth, a nonprofit community service organization dedicated to “creating a more positive” environment in Rehoboth Beach and its related communities.

CAMP Rehoboth Chorus is supported, in part, by a grant from the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state agency, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts. The Division promotes Delaware arts events on DelawareScene.com.

The CAMP Rehoboth Chorus Ensemble presents

The Innkeeper’s Tale

A New View on Life

One day that March, we had a last-minute, single-night reservation appear in our system. This was the winter, during our off-season, and reservations like this were a rare occurrence. Almost as soon as her reservation came in, Shizuka arrived—a lovely lady, tiny in stature, who gave me a warm greeting.

I gave her a warm greeting back, and in casual, icebreaking-type conversation, I asked her, “What brings you to Rehoboth Beach today?”

She immediately started sobbing. I sat her down on the couch and sat next to her as I tried to discover what was going on.

She told me she had run away from her family only a couple of hours earlier. She just got in her car and began driving with no destination in mind. She was coming from Virginia and, as she neared the coast, she decided to head towards the beach and look for a place to crash. When she looked online, she found our listing and something told her, “This is the place, book there.”

I learned that Shizuka was an American citizen who years earlier had escaped from hardship in Taiwan after graduating from high school. She was a wife and the mother of two teenage girls; she worked hard to lead her girls toward honorable and successful lives. She believed her daughters’ success was her duty as their mother, and she was determined to give them the opportunities she never had. Her husband had a more relaxed view of life and parenthood, so her family life wasn’t always smooth.

A few days before, Shizuka had insisted her younger daughter get out of bed to arrive on time for online school (during the pandemic). She didn’t know at the time that her daughter was depressed, and that being isolated from her friends was making her anxious.

In response to her mother’s actions, the daughter called child protective services to report her mother as an

abusive parent. An investigator arrived unannounced at the home for a home inspection and an interview with Shizuka and her husband. She was appalled as her husband described her to the officer as a tough mom who put high pressure on the girls.

BY TOM KELCH

Shizuka was devastated and heartbroken and felt betrayed by her own child. She packed some belongings and left home without saying anything to anyone.

Now, she was at my doorstep, and I was determined to do what I could to help her. We had no other customers booked with us till the weekend, so I had planned a week’s worth of projects and was in the middle of painting several guest rooms.

On the first day, Shizuka stayed close to me and vented. I just painted and listened. She decided she would need another night with us. The second day was very much like the first. The second day finished with booking a third night.

The third day began with a call from the Virginia State Police: Shizuka had been reported missing by her family. They traced her location by the credit card charges and wanted to check on her well-being. I explained the situation to the officer, noting she had turned off her phone, unwilling to speak to her family. After speaking to her himself, he ended the investigation, satisfied this was a family issue.

Hoping to find an apology, Shizuka turned her phone back on, only to see a text message from her husband,

requesting a divorce. After suddenly finding himself shouldering all of Shizukas’s responsibilities, he was finding things at home unbearable.

Shizuka once again broke down. I once again listened while I painted.

The fourth morning began like the rest—eggs, toast, bacon, and a breakdown. But this time I had a different plan. I invited Shizuka to go for a walk with me to get some fresh air, see the ocean, and focus on something else. As we walked down a path, I reached into my pocket and pulled out a joint. I lit it, took a puff or two, and handed it over to Shizuka.

She took it from me and took a puff, then a few more. We sat on a bench and a calmness fell over her. For the first time since I’d met her, she sat quietly and stared out at the ocean. I told her not to let herself focus on the family today, but rather, to focus just on herself and enjoy being at peace.

The next day began very differently, Shizuka came down to breakfast with a smile and her suitcase, ready to see her family and reconcile. She felt she had perhaps been too stern with her kids and husband and was willing to relax a little and laugh more.

She drove home and called the next day to report a beautiful reunion. A couple weeks later, Shizuka sent me an email thanking me for helping her and letting me know child protective services had cleared her.

To this day, Shizuka and I remain very close friends. Although now when we meet, she might be the one more likely to pull a joint out of her pocket. Legally, of course. ▼

Tom Kelch is a former Rehoboth Beach innkeeper who enjoys sharing his stories with Letters’ readers.

The third day began with a call from the Virginia State Police: Shizuka had been reported missing by her family.

Closets of the Rich and Famous

As anyone who knows me can tell you, I’m a big fan of stories. I write fiction, I subscribe to a theatre, I host a podcast about old movies, and I’ll talk your ear off about Severance, the best show of 2022 (where is the second season??!), if you’ll let me.

Mostly, I’m devoted to fictional stories. They’re a little tidier than real life, which is complex enough most days. I will make an occasional detour into nonfiction. These usually take the form of celebrity memoirs and showbiz documentaries. I’ve read the life accounts of Prince Harry, Jeannette McCurdy, and Billy Porter in the past year, and more recently watched two great pop culture docs, Rock Hudson: All That Heaven Allowed (Max) and Wham! (Netflix).

Rock Hudson was, at one point, the biggest male star in Hollywood, best known in his day for Giant (co-starring Elizabeth Taylor and James Dean) and Pillow Talk (alongside Doris Day). He was a classic Hollywood dreamboat: suave, debonair, and impossibly gorgeous. As described in the documentary, he was a man that women wanted to marry, and men wanted to be. Honestly, put me down for a little bit of both.

By contrast, Wham! was a pop group that quickly came and went in the early 80s. Comprised of childhood friends George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley, the duo became famous for songs like “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” and “Careless Whisper.” Their faces adorned the bedroom walls of teenage girls everywhere, and they were the first Western pop group to be invited to mainland China to perform.

Both documentaries were full of interesting trivia about their subjects. For instance, I had not known that Rock Hudson didn’t like James Dean much, and the feeling was mutual. I didn’t realize that towards the end of his life, Rock reached out to old friend Nancy Reagan, who was first lady at the time,

to obtain help receiving admission to a French hospital when he was dying of HIV, and that his request was curtly denied. Perhaps the most surprising information was in what people didn’t say: to a person, everyone from co-stars to friends to ex-lovers said that Rock Hudson was one of the kindest, most decent people in Hollywood.

BY ERIC C. PETERSON

Likewise, I had not known that George and Andrew met in primary school. I didn’t know that George first recorded “Careless Whisper” in Muscle Shoals with producing legend Jerry Wexler, but hated the result and scrapped it. And I wasn’t aware that much of the music video for “Last Christmas” featured George, Andrew, and their friends drinking real wine until they were all completely smashed.

Obviously, the one thing that Rock Hudson and George Michael had in common was that they were gay. Huge stars, household names, and deeply closeted for most of their careers. Both came out before their stories ended, but neither did so willingly. Rock Hudson was outed when news broke of his AIDS diagnosis in 1985, and George Michael when he was arrested for lewd conduct at a park restroom in 1998.

In Hudson’s case, being in the closet was understandable. Homosexuality was officially a mental illness in the 50s and 60s, and there were no openly

gay actors in Hollywood. All the same, his sexuality was an open secret in Hollywood, and he clearly harbored no shame about who he was.

Michael’s story was a little more nuanced. There were a handful of openly gay pop stars in the 80s (Jimmy Sommerville, Boy George), but many more in the closet. Still, upon realizing he was gay, he was initially ready to tell anyone who cared to know. Then, his best friend and bandmate reminded him that this meant telling his father—a conversation the 19-year old George wasn’t up for yet. So, he kept it a secret, and in the meantime became a household name, trapped by the kind of fame he never expected.

Watching both films in quick succession, I was suddenly struck by our community’s obsession with coming out. If someone is openly gay, we are quick to celebrate them, but if we suspect someone of being in the closet, the claws suddenly come out. It never occurs to us that maybe, like Rock, they’re out to everyone in their lives, but not out to People Magazine. Or perhaps they’re like George, unbothered and unafraid by the press but just not ready to tell dad. Perhaps, like both, they’re good, generous, gifted people, who have a lot to share with the world.

Don’t get me wrong; I’m still an advocate for coming out if the person is ready. It’s good for the LGBTQ community, and (in most cases) good for the individual, who no longer has to keep a secret from the world. But sometimes, perhaps it’s more important to be kind and brilliant.▼

Eric Peterson is Interim Managing Editor of Amble Press, a novelist (Loyalty, Love & Vermouth), and a diversity, equity, and inclusion practitioner. In his spare time, he hosts a podcast, The Rewind Project.

If someone is openly gay, we are quick to celebrate them, but if we suspect someone of being in the closet, the claws suddenly come out.

health+wellness

In a New York Minute

“It wasn’t raining when Noah built the ark” — HOWARD RUFF

Leafing through a magazine recently, I came across an ad for Feeding America that read, “The storm just hit and we went from donating to the food bank to needing it.” Life can change in a New York minute.

Disasters can be natural or man-made; occur with fair warning or no warning at all. Disasters do not need to impact whole populations; a family losing control of their vehicle and going off a cliff can be considered a disaster. And despite all that technology can provide, warnings cannot prevent disasters.

Think about what occurred on I-95 near Fredericksburg, Virginia, on January 3, 2022, when travelers became stranded for over 17 hours. Just two days previously, the temperature was an unseasonable 61 degrees. Between seven and 11 inches of snow accumulated in the area on the third, with much of it freezing as the sun went down.

Despite warnings to the contrary, drivers took to the roads, returning from the holidays. Even after more than 2,000 calls about conditions on I-95, this major East Coast north/south artery remained open. A Virginia Department of Transportation review of the incident acknowledged key state agencies “lost situational awareness.” Most stranded drivers lacked any provisions or supplies to buffer them from the bitter cold.

According to a 2021 Wells Fargo financial survey, four out five Americans live in an area that has been subject to some sort of disaster in the preceding three years. Yet, despite the vulnerability, 40 percent of those surveyed say they’ve never thought about making a detailed emergency plan.

In addition to lacking a physical plan, many Americans also are not prepared financially. The survey found that less than half of the respondents have started an emergency savings account, and about 40 percent say they have no emergency cash at home. In addition, only half of those surveyed have recently reviewed

insurance policies to see if they have the needed coverage should disaster strike.

Moreover, only about a third of respondents who are parents have discussed the implications of disasters with their school-age children or have made plans for those children in case the parents can’t get home. Alarmingly, survey results indicate only 13 percent have discussed disaster plans with their extended family, neighbors, or community.

BY SHARON MORGAN

tle or no surplus capacity to absorb crop or livestock income losses.

• Warnings and instructions related to disaster preparations and relief are commonly in English, leading to mis- or even non-communication across many communities.

• Social protection programs providing safety nets and disaster relief are not available to those with a questionable legal status. Even when available, many individuals are hesitant to seek relief for fear of prosecution.

Each September, US government agencies join with over 3,000 organizations globally to highlight what can be done at the individual and community levels to prepare for a disaster. In the US, this is done in part to commemorate the tragedies that occurred in our country on September 11, 2001.

While disasters are an equal opportunity battle axe, recovery is not. According to a Brookings study, females—who account for over half of the 200 million people affected annually by natural disasters globally—are typically at greater risk from natural hazards than males, particularly in underdeveloped nations or among the poor.

The United Nations Disaster Risk Reduction network views poverty as both a driver and consequence of disasters. Those impoverished are more likely to live in hazard-exposed areas and the lack of access to insurance and social protection means that people in poverty use their already limited assets to buffer disaster losses, driving them further into poverty. The communities in which they live cannot support prevention measures, making impoverished areas more vulnerable and devastation greater during disasters.

Age, disability, language, legal status, and location are all factors that can make someone more vulnerable during times of crisis:

• As the US population has grown, more individuals are residing in coastal and flood-prone areas.

• Disaster loss in rural areas may be less visible, as rural livelihoods have lit-

This year’s campaigns focus on older adults, who can be disproportionately impacted by disasters. Mobility, chronic disease processes, and lack of family or social connections all play a role in making those with advanced age more vulnerable. For example, of those who perished during 2005’s Hurricane Katrina, over 70 percent were 65 or older.

Several US websites can assist with disaster planning, including those of the CDC, HHS, FEMA, and Homeland Security. Each site outlines how to set up a basic emergency kit, including food, water, and medications; how and which legal and medical documents to protect; how to handle assistive devices; how to prepare pets; how to plan an evacuation route; and how to communicate with family and community members.

So, this September, start building or reinforcing your preparedness ark—before the rain comes. When the rain arrives, you’ll be glad you did. ▼

Sharon A. Morgan is a retired advanced practice nurse with over 30 years of clinical and healthcare policy background.

Age, disability, language, legal status, and location are all factors that can make someone more vulnerable during times of crisis.

BY TARA SHELDON

Programs & Events

health+wellness

CAMP Rehoboth is committed to providing a variety of health and wellness programs for all. All programs take place at CAMP Rehoboth, unless noted otherwise. Links to those offered on Zoom are provided in the Monday email newsletter and on our website.

Support, Growth, and Healing

Imago Workshops with Maya Kollman Coming This September

Maya provides the tools needed to develop a version of your best self. With her rich appreciation of complex theory coupled with practical skills, you will learn to live more joyously and more consciously in all relationships.

Keeping the Love You Find: An Imago Workshop for Singles | 9/28

To register, visit Maya’s website: mayakollman.com

Getting the Love You Want: A Couples Imago Weekend | 9/29-10/1

Space is limited! To register, visit Maya’s website: mayakollman.com

Grief Support Group: 3rd Thursday 3 PM (Zoom)

A safe place to share with others experiencing grief and loss. Kevin Bliss is a certified End-of-Life Coach. Email kevin@kevinblisscoaching.com or call/text at 202-607-1174.

Women in Circle: 1st & 3rd Saturdays 10 AM, Unity Spiritual Center, Millsboro | 8/19, 9/2

Women in Circle is a gathering of LGBTQ+ women. It is a welcoming, inclusive, and positive place to meet, connect, and share with other women.

Movement and Meditation

Chair Yoga: Tuesdays 9 AM (Zoom)

Erin Shivone guides you to synchronize conscious breath with mindful movement.

Matter of Balance: Thursdays 9-11 AM, 9/1411/2 NEW CLASS!

Do you have concerns about falling? Matter of Balance will help increase your mobility, strength, and coordination. Email Danielle. Briggs@delaware.gov.

Men’s Yoga: Saturdays 8:45 AM

Tim Rennick provides everyone the opportunity to modify or advance their practice.

Morning Mindfulness: Tuesdays 8 AM (Zoom)

Erin Shivone leads a mindful exercise or morning meditation for 30 minutes.

Tai Chi: Tuesdays at 8:30 AM, NEW CLASS!

Tai Chi Master Trainer Marianne Walch, PhD, the Co-Director of the Silver Lotus Training Institute, leads Tai Chi at CAMP Rehoboth.

Yoga Over 50: Monday-Sunday 8:30 AM and M-W-F 4 PM (Zoom)

Sue McCarthy brings compassion, humor, and encouragement and weaves mindfulness, breathwork, and meditation into her classes. To register, email tara@camprehoboth.com. In-person resumes in September.

Bi-weekly and Monthly Events

Ask Your Pharmacist: 3rd Wednesdays 3 PM (Zoom), 9/20

Cape Pharmacy pharmacist Joli Martini, PharmD, BCGP, answers your questions about medications and side effects. Confidential. Register at camprehoboth.com.

Flaming Knitters: 2nd & 4th Mondays 6:30 PM, 8/28, 9/11

Flaming Knitters is an engaging and supportive space for connecting and conversing while working on fiber-related crafts with queer- and trans-affirming peers.

CAMP FAMILIES

CAMP Families is a network of LGBTQ+ inclusive families, who are committed to building community and creating meaningful memories together. For more information or to propose a new activity, email tara@ camprehoboth.com.

Bonfire on the Beach: 8/19: 7 PM

Dolphin Sunset FULL MOON Cruise: 8/31, 6:45 PM

Pack a picnic dinner or snacks and come early to mingle with other CAMP Families! Order tickets SOON at capewatertaxi.com. They will sell out!

PTK (Parents of Trans & Gender Expansive Kids): In-person & Zoom, 7 PM

1st Thursdays: Zoom; 2nd Tuesdays: Lewes; 3rd Thursdays: Wilmington

PTK Delaware offers groups and a private Facebook page. Separate meeting spaces for adults and youth (ages 12-19) may be available. Visit ptkdelaware.com or email ptkdelaware@gmail.com for more information.

YOUTHUP AND YOUNG ADULT PROGRAMS

Contact YouthUp@camprehoboth.com or call 302-277-5620 to register, get more details, or share your ideas. We want to hear from you!

Young Adult Discussion Group: 3rd Thursdays, 6 PM (Zoom), 9/21

This discussion group is for 18- to 25-yearold LGBTQ+ young adults. To register, email YouthUp@camprehoboth.com.

YouthUp Book Club: Last Thursdays, 7 PM (Zoom), 8/31

The YouthUp Book Club meets to discuss youth-selected LGBTQ+ YA books. August’s book is The Feeling of Falling in Love by Mason Deaver. To receive a free copy of the book and to register, email YouthUp@ camprehoboth.com ▼

WANT TO LEARN more about Alzheimer’s? Kicking the sugar habit? Finances? Diabetes? Stepping outside of your comfort zone? How about clearing some clutter? Or plant-based cooking? If any of these topics sound interesting to you, let us know! We are in the process of creating a series of workshops and want to know what topics are of most interest to our community. Send your ideas to tara@camprehoboth.com or call at 302-227-5620.

Lifting Those Who Lift Us F

or years people have lamented that in December we see many more images of Santa Claus, his elves, and Rudolph than we see images of Mary, Jesus, and the others that gathered at the manger. There are some that argue that the true meaning of Christmas has been lost.

In recent years we have seen similar critiques about Pride celebrations. In the beginning, these were marches where members of the community came together in the streets to protest and push for the adoption of policies and practices that would provide equity, freedom, safety, and dignity. Now, some Pride celebrations are seen as mostly parties and opportunities for corporations to virtue signal. Today, there are some who argue that the true meaning of Pride celebrations has been lost.

As we approach Labor Day Weekend, I can imagine there are some—including me—who might feel the same way about this holiday. That the meaning of it and opportunity to celebrate, educate, and elevate the labor movement and working people has been lost—or at least has significantly faded since its origins in the early 1880s.

In 2023 we continue to face growing wealth inequality. We see state legislators across the country attempting to roll back labor laws. There are also too many news stories about companies working to prevent union organizing. All these things make it even more important for us to remember why Labor Day was started and acknowledge it with intentionality.

We should celebrate the efforts of Americans who make tremendous contributions to this country and our daily lives. Our everyday heroes are union members. They are the teachers who educate our children. They are the workers who build the places where we live, work, worship, and recreate. They keep us safe on the roads, the rails, and

in the sky. They take care of us and help keep us healthy in clinics and hospitals. They are public servants who keep the government and its programs and services running smoothly and efficiently. They ensure a good night’s sleep in hotels. They deliver letters and packages we could not function without. They bring smiles to our faces on stages and screens. They produce and distribute the food in our grocery stores that ends up on our tables nurturing our families.

BY CLARENCE FLUKER

All these people do skilled jobs and are not always recognized for their value. They should be celebrated. Too often the only union members who get applause are the ones who play major league sports.

Data from the Center for American Progress show that most Americans are in the working class and are the cornerstone of the American economy— but are concentrated in lower paying jobs. The people who keep this country going should be able to move into safe and affordable housing, have healthcare, reasonable working hours, and attain social mobility for their families.

We can all stand to use some of our time during Labor Day weekend reading books and articles, watching a documentary, or listening to a podcast to learn a bit more about the labor

movement of the past and the current state of affairs for American workers. Beaten Down, Worked Up: The Past, Present and Future of American Labor by Steven Greenhouse is one book to start. A search of titles at the library, skimming through interesting podcasts, and a scan of your favorite newspaper’s websites will keep you going.

Ironically, this summer we have watched Hollywood writers and actors, the people we look to most often to write and elevate stories about others, go on strike. They have themselves become the main characters in a story about workers seeking fair wages, benefits, and protection from having their labor exploited and capitalized upon by artificial intelligence. They are demanding modern contracts for what they call modern issues.

Under the bright lights of Hollywood, in the pressing heat in fields in the heartland, on cold concrete floors in factories in the Midwest, in quiet classrooms soon to be filled with the sound of children at the start of a new academic year up and down the east coast, workers are doing their best to thrive. We should make sure those stories are being told and that our family, friends, and neighbors are honored and appreciated for all that they do.

For those who are fortunate to have Labor Day off, it is not simply because we as individuals earned it. It is also because American workers before us paved the way. ▼

Clarence J. Fluker is a public affairs and social impact strategist. Since 2008, he’s also been a contributing writer for Swerv, a lifestyle periodical celebrating African American LGBTQ+ culture and community. Follow him on Twitter: @CJFluker or Instagram: @Mr_CJFluker.

The people who keep this country going should be able to move into safe and affordable housing, have healthcare, reasonable working hours, and attain social mobility for their families.

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CommunityNews

From Twilight to Sunshine

OnTuesday, October 17, at 5:30 p.m., the Ocean City (Maryland) Library will present a public program, From Twilight into Sunshine: LGBTQ+ History in Maryland and Just Beyond. Lead by Enoch Pratt Free Library librarians and Baltimore Heritage LGBTQ+ History Walking Tour guides, the program offers a glimpse into the fascinating and fabulous history of the LGBTQ+ community from the early 1800s to the beginnings of the current movement toward LGBTQ+ visibility and rights.

Throughout history, there always have been people who would now be seen as part of the LGBTQ+ community. As cities and towns grew in the 19th century, newspapers began to offer tantalizing clues that all was not straight and narrow and that LGBTQ+ people were becoming more visible, finding each other, and building communities.

In Snow Hill, the tragic end to two young women’s tumultuous relationship became national news in the 1880s, while at the same time, in Harford County, a trans man came out in the pages of the Baltimore Sun. In Jazz era West Baltimore, extravagant drag balls drew crowds of hundreds, as winning queens were both celebrated and mocked in the Afro-American. ▼

Photography Contest

Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge will once again host the annual Friends of Prime Hook photography contest. Photographs must be mailed or hand-delivered to the Refuge Office on or before October 7, 2023. Submitted photographs will be judged by professional photographers during the week of October 9. Winners will be announced and awards given at a reception for the artists and the general public, held at the Refuge Auditorium on October 15, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. Entries will be displayed in the auditorium through December 9, 2023.

The contest is open to photographers of all ages. The contest usually draws more than 200 entries and is considered one of the best nature photography contests in the area.

For complete contest details, see friendsofprimehook.com, visit the refuge office at 11978 Turkle Pond Road, Milton, Delaware, or call the office at 302-684-8419. ▼

(Re)claiming Reproductive Justice

In honor of Women’s Equality Day, the Reproductive Justice Task Force of the Unitarian Universalists of Southern Delaware (UUSD) will offer an event on Saturday, August 26, from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Held at UUSD, 30486 Lewes-Georgetown Highway, Lewes, the event will feature keynote speaker Nancy Rosenstock. The focus will be on education, collabo-

ration, and action planning, and will aim to move participants beyond anger to action, creating change and fighting for reproductive justice. There is no fee for the event, but registration is required at: Eventbrite.com; search for “reproductive justice” in “Lewes Delaware.” Contact Joanne Saltzberg for more information at j.saltzberg@uussd.org.

Photo 2023 Best in Show; Kingfisher; Ed Crawford, Lewes

oin us as we say ‘ so long!’ to a too long, too hot Summer celebrate the soon- to-arrive, cooler days of Autumn!

Groome Church

Performing Arts Series

Singing and Playing a Savory Mix of Great Music: a bit of classic Broadway, a measure of memorable Opera, and a dash of on-your-feet patriotic Americana! A FREE out of doors concert

Sunday, September 10 ● 5 PM

Canalfront Park

FOR MORE INFORMATION: danielletalamantes.com groomechurchlewes.org

lewescanalfrontpark.org

Historic Lewes, Delaware

Bass-baritone Metropolitan soprano Composer pianist Kerry Wilkerson Danielle Talamantes Henry Delhinger

It’s My Life

I Know You Are, But What Am I?

In the last week, two men who featured heavily in my teenage life died.

One of them is likely very familiar to you. Paul Reubens, better known as his alter ego Pee-wee Herman, revolutionized Saturday-morning children’s television with his show PeeWee’s Playhouse. The other man, Ronnie Meyers, is someone as unknown as Reubens was recognizable.

Pee-Wee’s Playhouse debuted in September of 1986. I was about to turn 18, and in my second year of college. Our dorm had one television, in the common room, and the show immediately became must-see TV for those of us who were up before noon on Saturdays. We were a generation familiar with the format, having been raised on shows like Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, Sesame Street, and New Zoo Revue. But Pee-wee was unlike anyone on those shows, and the humor was both more ridiculous and slyly more subversive than anything we’d ever seen.

Pee-wee himself was an enigma. He was clearly supposed to be an adult, but he behaved like a child. When it came to sexuality, he existed in a state of veiled queerness. Several of the female characters had obvious, sometimes overt crushes on him, to which he responded with either obliviousness or outright distaste. He seemed much more excited by visits from shirtless lifeguard Tito and tight-shorts-wearing soccer player Ricardo, even if he also didn’t seem to know exactly why their attentions thrilled him.

As a still-closeted young man, I perhaps saw Pee-wee in a way my straight dormmates didn’t. Like Pee-wee, I was shy and nerdy and weird. Also like him, I’d attracted the attention of one or two girls who found my nonthreatening personality charming, or at least a potential relief from what they were used to, and who had started using words like “boyfriend” and “dating” in our conversations. I sensed that this would eventually become a problem, and didn’t know what I would do about it, but for

the moment I could avoid it by escaping into the world of the Playhouse, where Pee-wee was surrounded by a cast of friends who allowed him to be exactly who he was; who celebrated his strangeness and got joy from it.

BY MICHAEL THOMAS FORD

left for college and didn’t look back. But I thought about him many times over the last almost 40 years. Of everyone in my high school, he was the one who reminded me that people can choose to be kind, can choose to look beyond what their friends tell them they should think and how their backgrounds encourage them to behave. He gave me hope.

Before Pee-wee, there had been Ronnie Meyers. I first encountered Ronnie when my family moved to the small town in which my father had grown up. He was there on my first day of fifth grade at my new school and remained a constant in my daily life for the next seven years. In many ways Ronnie was indistinguishable from the great majority of my male classmates in that tiny, rural town. He came from a poor family, with a home life marred by violence and difficulty. He was interested in sports, and rock music, and in getting laid as often as possible.

But Ronnie differed from his friends in one important respect—he never, not once, was cruel to me for not being like them. Where the other boys identified immediately that there was something about me they disliked, and labelled me with the word they found the most shameful, Ronnie never did. While we weren’t exactly friends, he was also not one of my tormentors. Several times he actively defended me. He routinely picked me for his team when chosen as a captain in gym class. And when encountering a group of boys where I saw that he was among them, my panic was less because I knew the possibility of danger was diminished by his presence. Also, undoubtedly, I had a little crush on him in the same way Pee-wee had crushes on Tito and Ricardo.

I had no contact with Ronnie once I

The friend who told me about Ronnie’s death added that the cause was likely associated with addiction. Apparently, life had been unkind to Ronnie and he had responded by escaping into drugs and alcohol. Although he tried to leave the small town that had him trapped, he came back to what was familiar, and eventually it killed him.

I know what it’s like to be told that you’ve made a difference in someone’s life. I get letters and messages from readers of my books telling me this. I’m always appreciative, even though most of these people I will never know beyond those shared words. And I think about it a lot while working on new things, wondering who needs to hear something uplifting, or see someone like them reflected in a story.

Reubens is certainly not the first pop culture figure from my teenage years to pass. Nor is Ronnie the first classmate of mine to die. But as they passed within days of one another, they’ve become linked in my memories in a way I hadn’t thought about before. If Ronnie helped me survive my school years, Reubens’ Pee-wee took over and shepherded me through the next stage of coming out and embracing who I was. Neither, of course, knew that they’d played any role in my journey.

I wish now that I’d told them.▼

Michael Thomas Ford is a much-published Lambda Literary award-winning author. Visit Michael at michaelthomasford.com.

I know what it’s like to be told that you’ve made a difference in someone’s life.

LUNG CANCER

Detect it early.

A lung cancer screening detected my cancer early, when it was most treatable. It could do the same for you.

Talk with your health care provider to schedule a lung cancer screening today. If you don’t have one, a nurse navigator can help — whether you have insurance or not.

You’re eligible for a lung cancer screening if you:

• Are between age 50 and 80; and

• Smoked a pack a day for 20+ years in the last 15 years; or

• Smoked two packs a day for 10+ years in the last 15 years.

Call 2-1-1 or scan the QR code to visit HealthyDelaware.org/Lung.

CAMP Stories

Fried Oreos and Snake Oil

An Afternoon at the State Fair

It’s been 10 years since I last ventured up the highway to Harrington to explore the slice of summertime Americana that is the Delaware State Fair. When I mentioned my desire to go, most people appeared wide-eyed, mouth ajar and forehead wrinkled. You mean you’ve been before? And you’re going back? On one of the hottest afternoons of the summer? What can I say? I like the unusual.

State and county fairs began in the mid-19th century as a celebration of community and summer’s bounty. The first was held in Syracuse, New York, in 1841. Attendees heard political speeches, viewed animal exhibits, and learned about the state’s agricultural offerings. The Kent and Sussex County Fair began in July 1920 with the purpose to promote agriculture and entertain people living in rural communities. In 1962 it was renamed the official Delaware State Fair.

While I enjoy the farm animals and the fruits and vegetables, the main reason I wanted to go was to see if Angel the Snake Girl was still performing. I’d met Angel on my last visit, lured in by a colorful sign advertising the face of a beautiful woman with the body of a snake, an oddity of nature born deep in the jungle of Borneo. Angel is what you call a classic carnival illusion sideshow. They became fixtures in early carnivals and fairs, thanks to an enterprising showman named P.T. Barnum who began exhibiting albinos, contortionists, sword swallowers, and bearded women as part of his circus.

Much to my dismay, Angel was missing, replaced by a booth promoting gutter guards. I’m honestly not surprised. Mores and tastes have changed. People today tend to satisfy their curiosities online and in private. Dr. Pimple Popper, anyone?

BY RICH BARNETT

Just when I was thinking about cutting my losses, I came face to face with a red and yellow food truck advertising fried Oreos. Beside it was another truck selling fried pickles and colossal fried onions. I spun around and saw signs everywhere— beer battered shrimp, corn dogs, sausage, funnel cakes, French fries, tacos, and even fried bacon on a stick! My arteries began to clog. Secretly, though, I was thrilled.

I ordered a basket of fried Oreos, ignoring the large hissing and bubbling pit of amber colored grease. To my surprise, they were quite tasty. Light and fluffy and dusted with powdered sugar, they reminded me of chocolate filled beignets. Fried Oreos in hand, I ventured to the Roost, an outside bar, in an unsuccessful attempt to find a glass of champagne, which I had

decided would pair nicely with my basket of sweets. I opted instead for an Orange Crush cocktail.

Mood improved, I wandered through the vegetable displays and animal barns. Most of the livestock were resting and trying to stay cool in the 100-degree heat. I stepped into the market tent to cool myself off among the barbeque grills, candles, toe rings, t-shirts, pianos, and kitchen knives for sale.

Nothing tempted me until I heard a man’s voice: “Ladies and gentlemen, step right up.” You’ve got to be kidding? I looked around and spotted a small, bald, bespectacled man waving at me. “What’s ailing you friend,” he asked. “Sciatica, high blood pressure, reflux, depression, trouble sleeping…. Just slip on one of my ion bracelets and you’ll immediately feel better. Within six months your health problems will have vanished.” Now this was interesting. And seeing as my sciatica was acting up, I decided to let things play out.

The salesman next unveiled a black and silver bracelet, a custom piece designed for a gentleman who unfortunately passed away before he could pick it up. Had he worn it he’d still be with us, the salesman claimed. I laughed, but he continued. “For a stylish fellow like yourself, I’ll give you a deal—today only—at $150. It’s cheaper than a series of appointments with a chiropractor. Safer, too.” He handed me the merchandise and I held it up, examined it, and slipped it on my wrist. “Now that looks good,” he exclaimed. I made a sucking sound, waited a minute, then looked him in the eye and offered $125.

At the end of the afternoon, I didn’t get to see Angel the Snake Girl, but I got to experience fried Oreos and a modern-day snake oil salesman, a classic figure right out of an early 20th century American fair who sold me a sure-fire cure for my sciatica. What more could you want from a state fair? ▼

Rich Barnett is the author of The Discreet Charms of a Bourgeois Beach Town, and Fun with Dick and James.

…the main reason I wanted to go was to see if Angel the Snake Girl was still performing.

Old

The

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CAMPsafe Serves Our Community Support, Prepare, Prevent

CAMPsafe Walking for AIDS Walk Delaware

Mark your calendars for September 16 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and join our team for AIDS Walk Delaware at Grove Park. Register at AIDSWalkDelaware.org.

Free Condoms: Be Prepared!

FREE condoms are always available at CAMP Rehoboth and many other locations, including: Diego’s, Northbeach, Lighthouse, Shrimpy’s, Freddie’s, The Pond, and Aqua.

Mpox: Stop the Spread!

For the best protection, get two doses of the vaccine! Find the latest information on mpox and where to get your vaccines at cdc.gov/poxvirus/mpox.

Free, rapid, walk-in HIV testing and counseling is available at CAMP Rehoboth and in western Sussex County. To request a home HIV test kit, contact tara@camprehoboth.com.

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AIDS

Walk Delaware

BY JOHN BECKLEY

Honoring and Reigniting the Community

AIDS Walk Delaware, presented jointly by AIDS Delaware and the Delaware HIV Consortium, takes place on Saturday, September 16, 2023. This year we celebrate and honor some of the people in our community who have been fighting the fight against HIV and AIDS since the first case was diagnosed in Delaware in 1981.

In 1982 the Gay & Lesbian Alliance of Delaware (GLAD) established a Health Issues Committee, which in 1984 would officially become the Delaware Lesbian and Gay Health Advocates (DLGHA), and eventually AIDS Delaware. These two organizations, a statewide AIDS hotline, and a much-needed buddy system were all started by James Welch, Ivo Dominguez, Jr., and their friends Joan Schwartz and John Wills. These are the Delaware pioneers who saw the need and responded. James and Ivo as well as 18 other community members who have contributed to the fight against HIV will be featured on this year’s commemorative AIDS Walk t-shirt.

This year’s AIDS Walk Delaware theme, REIGNITE THE COMMUNITY: Test, Treat, Prevent, Respond, ties directly to the four key strategies of the Ending

the HIV Epidemic (EHE) initiative that aims to end the HIV epidemic in the United States by 2030. It’s also a call to action for all of us to get reengaged in the fight.

Our best chance of eliminating HIV is assuring people get tested, know their status, and—if they are HIV positive—to get them into care and on a structured, medical regimen. This helps them stay healthy and reduces the spread HIV. People living with HIV who have an undetectable viral load have virtually no risk of spreading HIV to another person. There is also a prevention medication, PrEP, which is 99 percent effective at reducing the risk of contracting HIV. We need to create community awareness about PrEP and let people know how to get it.

The Walk, which takes place in both Wilmington (Brandywine Park) and Rehoboth Beach (Grove Park) on September 16, is the state’s oldest and largest HIV/ AIDS fundraising and awareness event. Funds raised help provide free HIV testing, medical case management services, HIV-specific mental health counseling, HIV education and prevention programs, housing, and transportation services.

Walk funds also benefit other Delaware HIV service organizations: Ministry

CAMPNews continued from page 14

CAMP Families Bonfire Night

OnJuly 8, CAMP Families hosted a Bonfire Night to celebrate the summer season. The next Bonfire Night will be held on August 19 at 7:00 p.m. For more details on how to register, visit camprehoboth.com.

CAMP Families is a network of LGBTQ+ inclusive families who are committed to building community and creating meaningful memories together.

Throughout the summer, activities included trips to Funland and the Cape Water Taxi’s sunset cruises. ▼

of Caring, Beautiful Gate Outreach Center, Latin American Community Center, William J. Holloway Community Program, and CAMP Rehoboth.

Join us to REIGNITE the Fight! Every Delawarean should get tested to know their HIV status. If you are HIV negative, we can give you strategies to keep you negative. And if you are HIV positive, we can help you access care to lead a long and healthy life. ▼

WALK DETAILS: Walk check-in begins at 9:00 a.m. in Wilmington, at Brandywine Park, 1080 North Park Drive, and in Rehoboth Beach, at Grove Park, Columbia Avenue and Grove Street. The Walk kicks off at 10:00. Walkers are encouraged to visit the Knowledge Neighborhood at their respective park before and after walking. Dogs are welcome at both locations. For more information, visit AIDSWalkDelaware.org, or contact John Beckley at jbeckley@aidsdelaware.org or 302.652.6776, x221.

John Beckley is the Director of Development and Marketing at AIDS Delaware.

Above, left to right: Frankie Sheldon with Harley, Dayle and Maya Poole; Justice Bromley-Salie, Tallulah BromleySalie, Lily Pietras-Weed. Photos by Tara Sheldon and David Salie.

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LGBTQ+ Teens at Risk

If you or someone you know is in suicidal crisis or emotional distress, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-8255.

This article will be tough to read (and was tough to write), but it’s important that we not look away.

In 2021, suicide was the second leading cause of death for people aged 10–24. While the rate remained stable from 2001 through 2007, it increased 62 percent from 2007 through 2021. The difference is even more stark for the 10–14 age bracket, where the suicide rate tripled from 2007 through 2018.

Lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth are at higher risk—more than twice as likely to have attempted suicide as their heterosexual peers. And many suicide risk factors are linked to being gay or bisexual in a hostile environment and the effects that environment has on mental health.

The 2021 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) High School Youth Risk Behavior Survey found that in Delaware, 11.4 percent of heterosexual students seriously considered attempting suicide during the previous 12 months. The rate jumped to 44 percent for gay, lesbian, or bisexual students; 8.7 percent of straight students actually attempted suicide, while nearly a quarter (24.3 percent) of gay, lesbian, or bisexual students did.

Suicide is rarely caused by a single circumstance or event, but the CDC has identified risk factors that can increase the possibility that someone will attempt suicide. Many of these factors affect LGBTQ+ youth disproportionately.

Depression ⊲ More than half (54 percent) of LGBTQ youth, 61 percent of transgender youth, and 61 percent of questioning youth are battling symptoms of depression, compared to 29 percent of non-LGBTQ youth. In Delaware, 29.8 percent of heterosexual high school students reported that they felt sad or hopeless almost every day for two or more weeks in a row during the previous 12 months, as compared to 63.1 percent

of their gay, lesbian, or bisexual peers.

Bullying ⊲ Nearly a third (31 percent) of LGBTQ youth, 43 percent of transgender youth, and 40 percent of questioning youth have been bullied at school, compared to 16 percent of their nonLGBTQ peers. In Delaware, LGBTQ+ high school students experienced bullying at a rate more than double that for straight students.

Loss of relationships/social isolation ⊲ After coming out, LGBTQ+ teens may find their friendships change (or are lost) and their relationships with family members are affected as well. LGBTQ+ youth who have at least one accepting adult in their life were 40 percent less likely to attempt suicide.

Victimization ⊲ LGBTQ+ youth are more likely to be assaulted or threatened. The rate of stalking among bisexual women is more than double the rate among heterosexual women, and of those women who have been raped, almost half of bisexual women (48 percent) experienced their first completed rape between the ages of 11 and 17.

Lack of Access to Healthcare ⊲ Nearly one in ten (9 percent) LGBTQ+ people and one in five (21 percent) transgender people said that they received harsh or abusive language from a doctor or other healthcare provider when receiving care. LGBTQ+ youth may be less comfortable confiding in a medical professional and often must access care through their parents.

How to Help Yourself

Talk to someone. Don’t keep thoughts of suicide to yourself. Confide in someone you trust, find a therapist or support group, or reach out to one of the resources listed below.

Build a support network. Identify people (and organizations like CAMP Rehoboth) in your life that will help keep you safe and that you can go to if you feel depressed or suicidal.

Make a safety plan. Have a step-bystep plan ready for what to do if/when you feel depressed, suicidal, or in crisis,

so you can start at step one and continue through the steps until you feel safe.

Seek help. If you’re struggling, you can call, text, or chat with the 988

Lifeline, 24/7. For specialized LGBTQI+ affirming counseling for youth, text Q to 988 or press 3 when prompted while calling. There are crisis counselors available to support you without judgment.

How to Help Others

Be an ally. Publicly show your support for the LGBTQ+ community. Ensure that you are supporting loved ones by affirming their identity, using their pronouns, and being committed to providing a non-judgmental and safe space. A recent study found that transgender children whose families affirmed their gender identity were as psychologically healthy as their non-transgender peers.

Ask and listen. Be an active part of your loved ones’ support systems and check in with them often. If they show any warning signs for suicide, be direct and ask. Tell them it’s OK to talk about suicidal feelings. Listen to their story without offering advice or judgment. For more guidance on steps you can take to help someone thinking of suicide, visit bethe1to.org.

Link them to resources. Work with your loved one to get them any help they might need.

Continued on page 112

In 2021…the CDC [Survey] found that in Delaware…8.7 percent of straight students actually attempted suicide, while nearly a quarter (24.3 percent) of gay, lesbian, or bisexual students did.

DRAGON BOAT RACING | PART 2

Going for the Pink

Editor’s Note: We published a piece about dragon boat racing in our June issue. A reader reached out to let us know that dragon boat teams also are an important experience for some in the breast cancer survivor community, offering something good for the body, mind, and soul. Evidence one team’s signature phrase, describing its race experience: “We seldom place, but we always win.” Below, our reader’s account….

In 1996 a doctor in Vancouver, British Columbia brought together a group of 24 breast cancer survivors (ranging in age from 31 to 62 years) and organized a dragon boat team. Donald McKenzie, MD, PhD, was a professor in the Department of Sports Medicine at the University of British Columbia and an exercise physiologist. He wanted to challenge the commonly held idea that breast cancer patients should not do repetitive motion and rigorous upper body exercise so as not to risk developing lymphedema.

The 24 women, many of whom had never been athletic in their lives, volunteered to train and practice. The goal was to build a team that would be able to participate in Vancouver’s Dragon Boat

Festival. The team, Abreast in a Boat, entered its first race in 1996. None of the women developed lymphedema.

After that first season, Dr. McKenzie thought that would be the end of the enterprise, but the women on the team had other thoughts. They wanted to continue. A movement was born.

The seeds that were sown grew rapidly. The women became ambassadors for the sport, helping other teams get started. The earliest teams started in Canada, but it wouldn’t be too long before teams started springing up in the United States and beyond. Currently there are at least 260 breast cancer dragon boat teams around the world.

The benefits of being a part of a breast cancer survivors’ team are many. Yes, there is exercise. Hard exercise! There is teamwork—you need to paddle in harmony if you’re going to move that boat forward. There is camaraderie—the experience of sharing a common goal with women who understand the journey. There is shared laughter, and sometimes tears when a team loses someone to the disease. And there is a special kind of grit, born of determination to dig in, just as we dug in on our way back to health.

One thing that sets breast cancer

BY KATHLEEN LEHMANN

dragon teams apart is the flower ceremony that takes place at festivals. It typically takes place after the final breast cancer survivor division races at an organized festival. If it’s a dedicated breast cancer

survivor festival, the ceremony would take place at the end of the festival. Boats filled with women, all holding pink flowers, converge in the water. Women hold hands across boats. A speaker makes some remarks, celebrating the lives of survivors, offering home for those currently battling the disease, and honoring those who have passed. Flowers are then tossed in the water.

The International Breast Cancer Paddlers’ Commission (IBCPC) is an organization whose mission is to encourage the establishment of breast cancer dragon boat teams within the framework of participation and inclusiveness. The organization supports the development of recreational dragon boat paddling as a contribution to a healthy lifestyle for those diagnosed with breast cancer.

The IBCPC organizes international festivals every four years. In 2018, the festival was held in Florence, Italy, with teams racing on the Arno. When I lived in New Jersey, I was a member of the Machestic Dragons, a team that practiced at Mercer Lake. The team hosted an annual festival that included club teams, community teams, and breast cancer survivor teams. We traveled as a team to Florence, Italy. It was an experience I treasure. ▼

Kathleen Lehmann is a retired social worker and breast cancer survivor who moved to Delaware from New Jersey in 2020. She has been a part of the Women’s FEST planning committee the last two years.

And there is a special kind of grit, born of determination to dig in, just as we dug in on our way back to health.

I Gotchu, Girl!

Ross Matthews’ Message for Us All

Whether he’s sitting alongside RuPaul on the judges panel on RuPaul’s Drag Race or revolutionizing daytime talk with Drew Barrymore, Ross Matthews remains—at heart—a fan first. As he hits the road for his one-man tour with his aptly titled show, I Gotchu, Girl!, Matthews is thriving both personally and professionally: He is married to Dr. Wellinthon Garcia (since 2022) and is finding himself on some of the most culturally important television shows today. I sat down with Ross to chat about his brand-new tour, the powerful women who helped frame the person he is, and how at all times, he remains leading with gratitude.

MICHAEL COOK: There is a very simple trait of yours that both I and so many other people who are massive fans of yours notice about you and every project you dive into, including your tour, I Gotchu Girl! Simply, you’re still a fan at heart, and are so inherently thankful for the opportunities that have come your way.

ROSS MATTHEWS: Oh, a super fan. And such gratitude. Because you have to remember, when I started on television back in 2001, there were not people like me on television— especially unapologetic people who refused to be the butt of the joke because there was no other choice. I am so grateful that my gratitude comes across on the screen because it is absolutely 100 percent real.

MC: You’ve been touring with your stand-up show, I Gotchu, Girl! How do you narrow down the stories you are going to tell from such a storied career?

RM: That’s a great question. I went on tour with both of my books, and they were their own thing. This tour is specifically about a few things. It is about getting back together with everybody, knowing what I know—and what we all know—after those rough few years of solitude and missing each other. Really, it’s about life through my point of view, my lens, life through Ross-colored

glasses; it’s what I wanted to say. Mostly though, it’s about making people laugh.

MC: I think it is so important to see someone like you represented and sitting on the panel of RuPaul’s Drag Race You seem to truly see the contestants’

BY MICHAEL COOK

hearts and getting to see them flourish year after year seems like a complete joy. What does it feel like for you to be able to be a part of this show and family?

RM: I still don’t know how it happened! I am not a drag queen, but I am a super fan of what they do and I always have been. I hope you notice when I judge, it’s never me telling them how to do it. Ru can give them advice on how to be a drag queen—and does— and no one knows better, and Michelle, too. And Carson can give advice on fashion. I really try to bring the super fan point of view. All I can do is give you my thoughts on how to be the best version of yourself.

MC: There is absolutely nothing like working with drag performers and helping them see their fullest and greatest potential, and seeing the best in themselves, don’t you think?

RM: Completely, that is absolutely it. Let me tell you something: not an episode, not a moment goes by that I take for granted. You know, getting to make RuPaul laugh—it is one of the best sounds I’ve ever heard. I love the sound of my chihuahua eating her food in the corner because that means she is safe and she’s eating. I love certain songs, I love the sound of Judy Garland’s voice, and I love the sound of RuPaul’s laugh.

MC: You and Drew Barrymore have put a 70s-style spin on daytime talk and it’s wonderfully revolutionary. You have definitely put your own special ingredients into the recipe of daytime talk and the result is something beautiful.

RM: When I met Drew in 2020, it felt like I was meeting a sibling, that’s what it felt like. Right away, the trust level that I felt…here she is, one of the most iconic people in the world, but I never thought of her like that once I met her. And I just felt like I could speak the truth to her. Even with our relationship out there, we so support each other, but if she says something that I disagree with, I’ll roll my eyes and be like “girl come on.” The fact that I can do that to someone of her stature and notoriety says so much about her behind the scenes.

MC: Meeting friends like you have met Drew, and I have met friends of my own in adulthood—it’s almost like when you say you’re “done” dating; that is when you end up meeting someone who is truly a game changer.

RM: I think you’re right. I believe my mother made this all happen; she passed away in 2020. That same year I came to New York, got engaged, and met Drew Barrymore. It’s almost like when she passed away, she was like, “Let me carve out some paths for you; you have some weeds in the way.” She did this.

Continued on page 112

When I talk about my mom, Drew comes and hugs me because, she says, “I feel your mom here.”

The Lodge at Truitt Homestead

The Lodge at Historic Lewes

Rigby’s: Simple Home Cooking, Casual Style

Oh, Rigby’s. It’s an institution at 404 Rehoboth Avenue in downtown Rehoboth. And the site on which it stands has been a welcoming place for LGBTQ+ folks and their straight allies for as long as anyone around here remembers. Personally, I ate and drank at the bar when it was called Harlows in the late 90s. Next came Partners Bistro after the turn of the millennium. It happily held forth for a few years and continued the tradition of good music, food, and drink.

But by 2009, it became Rigby’s Bar and Grill under the purview of John Black and John Glenstrup. They’ve made it a popular tradition over the last 14 years for good food, drink, and music. It’s a friendly place with speedy servers and great menu selections.

On a super-busy Friday night at the end of July (one of those oppressive steamy hot nights!) we ducked into the cool oasis of Rigby’s for dinner and drinks. From the beginning, it was a pleasure as the bartender knew just how to blend a Cosmo for me and a Rob Roy for Bonnie. We did not have to explain that a Rob Roy is a Scotch Manhattan.

We sampled the crispy fried shrimp appetizer, simply done and delicious followed by three entrees (our friend Diane joined us)—I sampled the crabcake as I am always seeking a true Baltimore version. Well done! The two jumbo lump blue crab cakes (no filler!) are served with two sides. I chose the creamy mashed potatoes and a very fresh side salad.

Bonnie ordered the seared scallops served with asparagus, nicely prepared and wonderfully tasty. Diane went for the signature Friday night Prime Rib special—cooked perfectly to order and an enormous portion. Now that’s some red meat! I loved the big bite I sampled.

By 8:00 p.m. the already-lively atmosphere went up a notch when the karaoke guys, Scotty and Mike, got started. They are at Rigby’s on Wednesdays,

Fridays, and Saturdays, and judging by the crowd at the bar they are quite the hot ticket. On Sundays, musician Ed Mills offers live acoustic music beginning at 5:00 p.m., through happy hour, and on till 9:00 p.m.

Some more good things about Rigby’s:

• Its reasonable price points to match its casual atmosphere

• The fact that it’s on upper Rehoboth Avenue and parking spaces are often more plentiful in that area, and

• They have a large patio outside for nights when the world is not on fire. As we enjoy what’s left of the summer and head into the fall, know that Rigby’s also offers Sunday Brunch from 10:00 a.m. till 2:00 p.m., featuring breakfast and light lunch selections (Eggs Benedict and Croque Madam to crab cakes). With their specialty entrees, a complimentary mimosa or bloody Mary comes with!

In addition to the brunch and prime rib specials, Wednesday is Burger Night, with a ½-pound hand-crafted burger with choice of hand-cut fries or coleslaw.

So check out Rigby’s and enjoy dinner and a cocktail, plus some karaoke or live music on a site that has hosted years and years of LGBTQ+ people and our allies. It’s a sweet refuge. ▼

Fay Jacobs is the author of five published books and is touring with her one-woman sit-down comedy show, Aging Gracelessly.

It’s a friendly place with speedy servers and great menu selections.

Photos, top to bottom: Rigby’s Restaurant exterior; Bonnie Quesenberry (L) with legendary Ladies 2000 promoter Diane Lusk; On a busy summer night it’s cool and casual.

Here is a sampling of our commitment to all our clients/friends!

“They were great to work with throughout the entire sales process. They made recommendations for property improvements that would result in the highest return on investment. Also living in another state, They went the extra mile by helping to clear out unwanted items f rom the property and coordinating and giving access to various vendors working on the property. I have no hesitations to recommend this team to another customer!”

“Warriors! Our settlement, due to the house-of-cards effect caused by multiple settlements relying on others, was difficult. Challenges were many. John & Bill were there not only as moral support; they worked tirelessly to get the job done. They are good men… and in the end, that is who I want representing me. That is what is most important to me. Trust.”

“John Black is a very good person. He was extremely generous to my father over the years. My father Claude Lesieur spoke very highly of John. My parents left Lewes in 2015, John handled all their real estate needs. He was attentive and very kind during the process. When it came time to consider selling one of the Rehoboth Beach lots, John was the only agent I considered. While the closing process was delayed and beyond the Seller's control, we got it done with an excellent result.”

"Great realtors, great guys. Work hard for their clients...both internally and externally. Wish I could give 10 stars"

IMAGO THERAPY BY TARA SHELDON

Love Travels at the Speed of Light

There is a book titled Too Good to Leave, Too Bad to Stay by Mira Kirshenbaum. I found it useful during a tumultuous relationship I couldn’t seem to end in a healthy way for either of us. Initially, I thought, “if only we could communicate better, then all would be well.” HA! Only a few flips through the book, and it was clear ours was a relationship that leaned heavily toward “too bad to stay,” and needed to end.

For some, however, communication truly is the stumbling block. Learning how to listen, how to share honestly, and how to love fully is transformative, and ultimately the key to a lasting, loving, caring relationship. Enter Imago!

I first attended one of Maya Kollman’s Imago workshops in the 90s in Washington DC. I was in graduate school pursuing my master’s degree in social work, and over the next decade I attended every workshop I could.

When Maya, who holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology, was first introduced to Imago, she was prohibited from having her partner, Barbara Bingham, join her. Now 33 years later, she is one of five Master Trainers of Imago Relationship Therapy, trained and certified by Dr. Harville Hendrix, the founder of Imago Therapy. She has since travelled around the world with Barbara, teaching the ideas and skills of Imago in 15 countries and 26 states, counting Delaware.

The daughter of holocaust survivors, Maya is a spirit of love and light. Together for over 40 years, she and Barbara, a yoga teacher, believe yoga to be the key in waking the body and letting go of emotional stress. “The principles of Imago and yoga are similar: letting go, taking responsibility for yourself, growing your container to manage reactivity, being loving and open, etc.,” says Maya, who practices yoga daily.

Maya’s exploration of relationships has shown her that key elements in healing— both the self and the relationship—include self-love, curiosity, openness, connection, and compassion. Her questions for those in relationship strife might include:

• How do you keep the relational field

Aspen and Reyes: One Couple’s Imago Experience

What was different or better about Imago?

open, i.e., how do you communicate meaningfully and with positive impact?

• How do you create partnership?

• What is the power in relationship?

Conflict is growth trying to happen. Says Maya, “Imago uses sentence stems rather than questions to get underneath the content into what the issue is really about. Intentional dialogue and the many tools used in Imago enhance the positive, which is different from traditional relationship therapy.”

A few key phrases she finds useful for self-reflection and exploration include:

• Spot it/Got it—We can only see in others what lives in us.

• If hysterical/it’s historical—Our childhood experiences deeply affect our reactivity today.

• Taking Inventory—Focusing on another person’s shortcomings rather than taking responsibility for ourselves.

She notes that, “Surrendering to love forces us to face our deepest fears. When we surrender to loving someone, we are always vulnerable to deep hurt because they may leave us or die.”

Through Maya and Barbara’s “exquisite capacity to connect,” participants in their workshops learn to create a sense of belonging in all aspects of their lives.

Maya, Barbara, and their Havanese companions, Lou and Mo, will be at CAMP Rehoboth in late September. The singles workshop is on September 28, and the couples’ weekend is September 29-October 1, 2023. To register, visit mayakollman.com. ▼

We have been in couples therapy with multiple therapists trained in emotionally focused therapy (EFT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) methodologies. Our first exposure to Imago was absolutely life changing.

Which tools or skills were the most transformative for you?

Learning how to unpack conflicts remains the most powerful for us. Imago provides a framework to share hurts in a way that shares accountability (the person who feels hurt also shares what unproductive things they do in response at the outset), fosters empathy (explore what big feelings, fears, and childhood traumas are at play), and facilitates actual communication (the “receiver” actively mirrors and summarizes and synthesizes what the “sender” has said) and makes it impossible to “listen to talk” which is a dynamic we had in our relationship.

What helps bring you back to connection when you want to shut down or run away?

One of the things we worked on is thinking about our partner as they were as a child, with unmet needs. It is immediately grounding and empathy-building. It was powerful to experience Maya and Barbara model the Imago tools and compassion for each other throughout the weekend. Imago changed the course of our marriage, and our lives.”

Tara Sheldon is the Health & Wellness Manager at CAMP Rehoboth.

L-R: Maya Kollman and Barbara Bingham

CAMPshots

SCENES FROM REHOBOTH BEACH

Hot Fun in the Summertime!

Rehoboth Beach Hot Spots, Dining Out, a Celebration of Life, Pride, Politics, Poodle Beach, and a Whole Lot More from Summer 2023!

THIS PAGE (left to right) 1) at Freddie’s Beach Bar: Veronica Kozlova, Sam Ferguson, Ken Lane, Matt Dnrened, Tony Zacchei, Jacob Anthony, Doug Lynn, Pam Lynn; 2) at Diego’s: Joe Smith, Dusty Abshire, Cathy McCallister, Karren Hughes, Manny Tejeda, Chad States.

OPPOSITE PAGE 3) at Diego’s: Joe Zuber, Edmund Bagnell, Daryl Ciarlante, Craig Scindiver, Mark Hartman, Gary Alexander, Channing Daniel, Bill Gluth, Stephen McMahon, Jack Papiernith, Ken Currier, Joan Rivers, Mike Tyler. 4) Bodhi Kitchen Restaurant: Philip Livingston, David Gonce, Carl Grimm, Rick Perry, RB Commissioner Edward Chrzanowski, Tarra Kennedy, Meghan Gardner.

More CAMPshots page 54

SCENES FROM REHOBOTH BEACH

(Continued from page 53)

THIS PAGE (left to right) 1) at Celebration of Life for Evie Simmons: Jen Rubenstein, Deb Qualey, Diane Scobey, Pat Heil, Kerry Williams, Diane Lusk, Bonnie Quesenberry, Sharon Miken, Beth Cohen, Barb Thompson, Susan Jiminez, Cathy Benson, Fran Sneider, Roseanne Madden, Pattie Magee, Pam Notarange, Lana Warfield, Jen Walker, Chris Legato, Elaine Kakareka, Rina Pellegrini, Ruth Kloetzli, Linda Kemp, Joanne Yurik, Deb Knickerbocker, Geri Dibiase, Vicki Martina, Nancy Hewish; 2) at Eden Restaurant: Chris Walsh, David Park, Jon Duphane, Timmy Murphy, John Hackett, Marc Charon.

OPPOSITE PAGE: 3) at Blue Moon: Nate Buccieri, Tommy Dose, Jeff Seese, Mike Lutz, Michael Eisinger, Joe Maggio, Juan Perez; 4) at Rehoboth Art League: Paulette Lanza, Courtney Gibb, Charles Plante, Justin Brown, Sara Ganter, Mike McSorley, Patricia Truitt; 5) at RB Village Improvement Association: Rob Crosby, Rick Hardy, Ron Whitsel, Michael Craig, Dan Kyle, Rich Barnett, Leon Vignes, Jonathan Lockerby; 6) at Gallery 50: Chad Bender, Kim Klabe, Brad Berg: 7) at The Mill Creamery: Sheily Tzun, Ashley Tzun, Cubby D’Orta, Mary Rose D’Orta; 8) at Aqua: Larry Pennington, David Lasher.

(More CAMPshots page 108)

JUST HOW GAY IS BARBIE?

It Depends on Who You Ask

Let’s face it: Barbie was going to be gay. Maybe not gay enough, according to some gays. Maybe too gay, according to anti-gays.

The fact is, this is a movie about Barbie, and wherever Barbie goes, some inherent queerness will go, too. As a kid, I remember wanting to be Barbie’s best gay friend—I imagined we’d have some pretty fun sleepovers in her Dreamhouse. I also imagined some pretty fun sleepovers with Ken.

So now that Barbie is a splashy, pink-soaked blockbuster, director Greta Gerwig serves up a feminist fantasia in which a diverse group of Barbies, including several played by LGBTQ+ actors, reclaim their world from their Ken-ruling counterparts. As a gay boy led into gay adulthood by strong women, I am on board with all that girl power in Gerwig’s Barbie

I also appreciate that the film, starring Margot Robbie as the leading Barbie and Ryan Gosling as the leading Ken, is full of queer subtext that has sent right-wingers into an anti-queer meltdown because, god forbid, dolls should be for everyone. Fox News reported that a Christian news site “warns” that the film ‘“forgets core audience’ in favor of a trans agenda and gender themes.”

Let them have their bigoted feelings while the rest of us admire Barbie for what it is: a coming-of-age film that lets

underdogs come out on top. Here are five queer things to love about Barbie.

LGBTQ+ Actors Play the Dolls

Queer actors are among those portraying the Barbies and Kens in Gerwig’s Barbie Land. I’d say that’s remarkable, but that kind of casting, where queer people are just in the mix of onscreen talent, should be the norm in all films. In Barbie, it is, however, especially meaningful seeing the iconic but historically heteronormative dolls portrayed by openly queer actors.

Scott Evans, who is Chris Evans’ gay brother, is a Ken, while queer Love, Simon actress Alexandra Shipp plays a Barbie. Trans actor Hari Nef also plays a Barbie (excuse me, Dr. Barbie), and Kate McKinnon is “Weird Barbie,” who emanates some real lesbian vibes (McKinnon herself is openly lesbian) particularly when she offers Robbie’s Barbie some more practical, everyday footwear— those being Birkenstocks.

Ken’s Queer Energy

It would be a shame to feature Ken as prominently as this film does without at least winking at the queer boys, such as myself, who loved him. Thankfully, this fact is realized in Gerwig’s Barbie, which suggests that Ken is both the object of desire of men, including other Kens, and that he may even be chasing Barbie for

BY CHRIS AZZOPARD

reasons that aren’t exactly amorous in nature. Maybe Ken needs Barbie like Jack needs Karen?

The Kens in this movie, after all, are confused about who they should be, spending so much time proving their masculinity because they are convinced that is how they should act. That societal pressure alone is a familiar stress to any gay man, but Barbie does loosely put Ken somewhere on the spectrum of queerness, whether that be a quick cameo from Magic Earring Ken, modeled on gay fashion, or by showing Evans riding a horse stick in a way that doesn’t exactly register as totally straight. Meanwhile, Gosling’s Ken gets kissed on the cheek by two other Kens, including Evans, during a homoerotic ballet sequence that includes the lyric “put that manly hand in mine.” He does not seem to mind.

Gender Neutral Bathrooms

One of the most obvious displays of queer inclusivity in Barbie involves just a few words spoken by Will Ferrell: “gender-neutral bathrooms.” I nearly applauded when Ferrell, beloved for potty-humor comedies that surely attract those who have issues with transgender people using whatever bathroom they want, was running down the list of what you’d find at the Mattel headquarters. At Mattel, people pick whatever bathroom

best suits them. For one of the biggest films of the year to be given the stamp of approval from a giant corporation that makes products for children, some of the same kids these anti-trans bathroom bills affect, that’s a small victory.

The Indigo Girls

When I first saw the trailer for Barbie, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of vindication for the Indigo Girls, whose name I’ve often heard come up in mainstream culture as “lesbian music” for the mere fact that duo Emily Saliers and Amy Ray are lesbians. Suddenly, here was Barbie, a beloved commercial figure, flipping the script on that stereotypical notion, driving her pink Corvette and belting out “Closer to Fine” as she leaves Barbie Land for the real world.

“You don’t imagine a folk lesbian duo to be in this hot-pink Barbie movie,” Tig Notaro told Trish Bendix at the New York Times. “Kind of just selfishly and personally, I feel like, ‘Yeah, we were onto something all these years,’ you know? It’s validating. Obviously, it’s been a huge hit forever, but this is so next level.” Perhaps as a way to emphasize this union of commercial and queer culture, openly gay Grammy winner Brandi Carlile and her wife Catherine cover the song on the soundtrack’s expanded edition.

Allan

Always an Allan, never a Ken. If Ken was the object of so many queer boys’ affection, Allan was the doll many of us could relate to—when we weren’t daydreaming about being Barbie, that is. Allan, por-

trayed by Michael Cera, is the awkward doll version of me at 13, avoiding all the Kens at the bus stop while I exclusively shuffled between women artists on my Walkman. In Barbie, Cera’s Allan, who wears a crocheted button-down with colors that resemble a rainbow and whose body isn’t tan and chiseled like the Kens, is right at home with the Barbies, not so much the Kens and all of their abs and swaggering machismo. For those reasons alone, Allan is the outsider in all of us. ▼

Chris Azzopardi is the editor of Q Syndicate, the LGBTQ wire service. His work has appeared in the New York Times, Vanity Fair, GQ, and Billboard..

In Barbie, it is, however, especially meaningful seeing the iconic but historically heteronormative dolls portrayed by openly queer actors.

CAMP REHOBOTH BEACH GUIDE

BEACH

REHOBOTH RETAIL SHOPS

New Wave Spas, 20660 Coastal Hwy

Unfinished Business, Rt. 1 behind Panera Bread

302-227-8484

302-645-8700

REHOBOTH ART | GALLERIES | MUSEUMS

Caroline Huff, Fine Artist www.carolinehuff.com

Gallery 50, 50 Wilmington Ave

Philip Morton Gallery, 47 Baltimore Ave

Rehoboth Art League, 12 Dodds Ln

Rehoboth Beach Museum, 511 Rehoboth Ave

REHOBOTH FOOD & DRINK

1776 Steakhouse, Midway Shopping Center

Aqua, 57 Baltimore Ave

Back Porch Café, 59 Rehoboth Ave

Blue Moon, 35 Baltimore Ave

Café Azafrán, 18 Baltimore Ave

Café Papillon, Penny Lane Mall

Coho’s Market & Grill, 305 Rehoboth Ave

Diego’s Bar Nightclub, 37298 Rehoboth Ave

Dos Locos, 208 Rehoboth Ave

Freddie’s Beach Bar & Restaurant, 3 South First St

Go Fish, 24 Rehoboth Ave

Goolee’s Grille, 11 South 1st St

Just In Thyme, 38163 Robinsons Dr

Lori’s Café, 39 Baltimore Ave

Loves Liquors, LLC, 305c Rehoboth

302-227-2050

302-727-0905

302-227-8408

302-227-7310

302-645-9355

302-226-9001

302-227-3674

302-227-6515

302-227-8100

302-227-7568

302-227-2646

302-227-1023

302-227-3353

302-527-1400

302-226-1044

302-227-7653

302-227-3100

302-226-3066

Gay/Lesbian Alcoholics Anonymous—add’l schedules

302-856-6452

Saturdays 6 pm: Epworth UMC, 19285 Holland Glade Rd (step meeting)

Saturdays 7:30 pm: All Saints’ Church, 18 Olive Ave (step meeting)

Tuesdays noon: St. Peter’s Church, 211 Mulberry St, Lewes (step meeting)

Lewes Senior Activity Center (age 50+) 302-645-9293

PFLAG-Rehoboth—3rd Tuesdays, Public Library, 111 Adams Ave, Lewes

SLAA and SAA—Thursdays, 7:30 pm, All Saints’ Church

Social Security Administration—Lewes office

TransLiance of DE—Rehoboth—4th Tuesdays at 7 pm, MCC of Rehoboth; contact: TransLiance@gmail.com COUNSELING/THERAPY/LIFE

LEGAL/ACCOUNTING/TRUST SERVICES

Lawson Firm, 402 Rehoboth Ave

PWW Law LLC, 1519 Savannah Rd, Lewes

Steven Falcone CPA, Taxes & Planning

MASSAGE THERAPY/FITNESS

Midway Fitness & Racquetball, Midway Center

One Spirit Massage, 169 Rehoboth Ave

Reiki CENTRAL, thecentralfirm.com

PEST CONTROL

Activ Pest Solutions, 16803 New Rd, Lewes

PET RETAIL

Critter Beach, 156 Rehoboth Ave

Pet Portraits by Monique

PET SERVICES

Brandywine Valley SPCA, 22918 Dupont Blvd, G’twn .........

302-226-3700

302-703-6993

302-644-8634

302-645-0407

302-226-3552

302-408-0878

302-645-1502

302-226-2690

717-650-4626

302-856-6361

Humane Animal Partners (formerly Delaware Humane Association & Delaware SPCA)

Little Landmines Pet Waste Removal. littlelandmines.com

Parsell Pet Crematorium, 16961 Kings Hwy, Lewes

REAL ESTATE

Allen Jarmon, NextHome Tomorrow Realty

Bill Peiffer, Patterson Schwartz, 18958 Coastal Hwy

Chris Beagle, Compass

Donna Whiteside, Berkshire Hathaway, 16712 Kings Hwy

Hugh Fuller, Realtor

John Black, Patterson Schwartz, 18958 Coastal Hwy

Lana Warfield, Berkshire Hathaway, 37230 Rehoboth Ave

Lee Ann Wilkinson Group, 16698 Kings Hwy

Lingo Realty, 246 Rehoboth Ave

302-200-7159

302-521-3983

302-645-7445

302-745-5122

302-703-6987

302-273-4998

302-381-4871

302-745-1866

302-703-6987

302-227-6101

302-645-6664

302-227-3883

McWilliams Ballard, Kevin McDuffie kmcduffie@mcwb.com

McWilliams Ballard, Justin Orr jorr@mcwb.com

Randy Mason/Shirley Kalvinsky, Lingo Realty

Sea Bova Associates, 20250 Coastal Hwy

The Joe Maggio Group, 37169 Rehoboth Ave Ext., #11

Troy Roberts, Mann & Sons, 414 Rehoboth Ave

302-227-3883

302-227-1222

302-226-3770

302-228-7422

RETIREMENT LIVING/SENIOR CARE FACILITIES

Springpoint Choice, 17028 Cadbury Cir, Lewes

The Lodge at Truitt Homestead, 36233 Farm Ln .................

TRAVEL & TRANSPORTATION

Accent On Travel, 37156 Rehoboth Ave

CHEER Transportation (age 50+)

Jolly Trolley Shuttle from Rehoboth Ave & Boardwalk

INSURANCE

Eric Blondin, State Farm

George Bunting, State Farm

Jeanine O’Donnell, State Farm

Williams Hwy

302-645-6671

302-644-3276

302-227-3891

302-645-7283

302-313-6658

302-232-6372

302-278-6100

302-856-4909

302-644-0400

Olivia Travel 800-631-6277 ext. 696

POPULAR LGBTQ BEACHES

Poodle Beach, south end of the Rehoboth Boardwalk

Cape Henlopen State Park, Ocean Dr north to Cape Henlopen State Park. Daily parking rate in effect March-November.

HUMAN RIGHTS FOR ALL BY PETER

The History of Delaware’s Stonewall PAC

Having worked in the US Congress for 25 years, retiring when I was 50, I still had the stamina, skills, and contacts to work on projects I really wanted to pursue as a Democratic activist and a member of the LGBTQ+ community. The Log Cabin Republicans, the gay Republican organization, was getting lots of publicity even though in 1996 it was clear that Republicans did not embrace our community.

I thought we needed a comparable gay Democratic organization, so after making some personal contacts and finding people online, I helped organize the National Stonewall Democrats. Early in our development we met with Vice President Al Gore, and I served on the organization’s national board.

Shortly after moving to Delaware, I learned that despite having a Democratic-controlled Delaware State Senate, a broad nondiscrimination bill was not attainable. I began making inquiries about active local LGBT Democrats, and through National Stonewall Board member Mike Marsico I was introduced to Delaware-born Tim Spies. We put together a team of activists to begin building a local organization.

In February 2003, the first membership meeting of Delaware Stonewall Democrats was held to approve the bylaws and elect officers. The goals of the organization were also approved, including support for legislative initiatives protecting and enhancing the rights of LGBT individuals living in Delaware, and working within the Democratic Party to assure more support on LGBT issues.

State Democratic Party Chair Richard Bayard invited us to sit on the party’s executive committee. Future Delaware Governor Jack Markell helped us become a viable political organization and suggested we raise funds to give to supportive Democratic candidates.

That first year we were able to persuade Congressman Barney Frank to attend our summer fundraiser, which was attended by 300 people.

We raised enough money that first

SCHOTT

summer to give financial support to candidates who were LGBT supportive; we have since continued to provide financial support to our allies and individuals we believe will support our issues. About 90 percent of the money raised by Delaware Stonewall PAC by membership and fundraising goes to supporting candidates. Our summer activities have become must-attend events for many of the state’s political leadership.

As we continued to have electoral success, we are able to work with allies to move a legislative agenda. We wrote the hospital visitation law, secured passage of the non-discrimination bill, a civil union bill, and marriage equality legislation. We continue to work on passage of a constitutional amendment to protect gender equality, and legislation to establish Delaware as a state that protects access to transgender healthcare.

Learn more about the Delaware Stonewall PAC and its upcoming (September 9) 20th anniversary summer event at delawarestonewall.org. ▼

Peter Schott is secretary of the Delaware Stonewall PAC.

Our summer activities have become must-attend events for many of the state’s political leadership.

The Sea Salt Table BY

Dog Days of Summer Biscuits

Saturday, August 26, is International Dog Day. A whole day set aside to celebrate dogs that’s international! What a great way to bring the world together.

Shore towns are notoriously dog-friendly, especially Rehoboth. I see you, stores with water bowls outside your doors. You rock!

I’d be remiss on this auspicious occasion to not celebrate our best friend Atticus. Half Westie, half Scottie. All “terrior,” all hunter.

We adopted Atti at six months old and we just celebrated his third birthday. Bringing him into our home was a decision we didn’t take lightly. We were still hurting from the loss of our previous dog, Chester, a purebred Westie.

Frankly, we weren’t sure we could go through that painful loss ever again. Chester lived to be almost 18. We couldn’t remember a time without him and then suddenly he was gone.

Thankfully, we opened our hearts and it’s been shenanigans ever since. Atti’s loving, loyal, and so very fun. He loves other dogs, kids, adults, and anything that resembles food.

To put it plainly, Atti’s the manliest creature in our house. A happy day for him would include a romp in mud with the occasional snack of deer poop. Truly, he’d be fine in the chilly Scottish Highlands, filthy and grimy, with matted fur, jumping from cliff to cliff. And then a lie-down in front of a roaring fire.

Westies were bred to root out varmints. It is nothing for Atticus to while away an afternoon attempting to climb a tree to get to a squirrel. Lately, too, he has it in for eagles and falcons, running the yard in circles, jumping to reach them in the sky. And of course, barking the entire time.

With the run of nearly a half-acre, Atti has caught numerous little critters. Chester did the same but to a lesser degree. Afterwards, Chester would shake uncontrollably with what we assumed was an adrenalin rush. He’d forlornly look at us as if to say “I’m not sure what I just did nor why I did it.” Whereas Atti’s demeanor says, “Hold my beer, I’ve got work to do.”

Like Chester, Atticus watches TV,

although much more intensely. He literally throws himself at the screen for a dog that you can’t even place. Oh, there it is, across the lake, behind that far-off house.

Having a TV-watching dog gets kind of old. Especially when they know jingles for pet commercials and charge the TV from anywhere in the house. And when that commercial is over, Atti runs behind the wall of the TV to see where the dog went. Not even kidding.

STEPS

ED CASTELLI

Lastly, Atticus has a stomach of steel. One time, we panickily called Poison Control after he’d gotten into some chocolates. Several doses of hydrogen peroxide later, he wouldn’t even throw up. Meanwhile, his caffeine high lasted 24 hours. Imagine everything I’ve described thus far—the hunting, the TV watching—times 10.

We were still finding tinfoil wrappers in his poop three days later. And we found more candies under bedroom pillows and buried in sofa cushions. To this day it makes me smile when I think of him running all over the house squirrelling away his treasure.

So, this month I’m highlighting my favorite recipe for dry dog biscuits. There’s something very pleasing about making your fur baby treats, especially with a limited number of ingredients that you control (and pronounce).

Let’s get started, shall we?

 In a large bowl, combine the following::

• 2 cups of flour

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup canned pumpkin

• ¼ cup natural peanut butter (without xylitol!)

• pinch of salt

 Knead the dough into a ball, then roll on a lightly floured surface to about ¼” to ½” thick.

 Cut desired shapes, rerolling any scraps until you’ve used up all the dough.

 Transfer the treats to a parchment-lined cookie sheet and bake about 20 to 30 minutes in a 325° oven until golden brown.

 Cool completely and store in an airtight container in your refrigerator.

TIPS

• Be very careful your peanut butter doesn’t have the sweetener ingredient xylitol. It truly is unsafe for our furry friends.

• The thickness at which you roll these treats combined with the length of time they spend in the oven will affect how hard they are. Atticus loves crunchy treats. If your dog doesn’t, you might want to pull these from the oven a little earlier. ▼

Ed and his husband Jerry split their time between homes near Harrisburg Pennsylvania and Bethany Beach. Ed builds websites to pay the bills but loves to cook, garden, hike, and dote on their dog Atticus. Recipe requests and feedback welcome: ed@ seasalttable.com.

To put it plainly, Atti’s the manliest creature in our house.

View

Queer Film Director Laura Terruso

The Youngest Person to Direct GOAT Robert DeNiro

Award winning director, producer, and screenwriter

Laura Terruso is forging a path through Hollywood few others have. Only eight years out of film school, Laura has already directed four feature films, an episode of Apple TV’s Dickinson, and a forthcoming experimental documentary. She recently directed About My Father for Lionsgate, starring Robert De Niro, Kim Cattrall, and Sebastian Maniscalco. At age 40, Laura is the youngest woman to direct De Niro and is well on her way to icon status herself.

I got to sit down with Laura after attending a screening of About My Father.

ROBERT DOMINIC: Thanks for sitting down with Letters! First of all, I loved the movie. It was so funny yet also really heartwarming—my favorite combination. How did you originally meet/get connected with Sebastian Maniscalco, the writer and star?

LAURA TERRUSO: My agent sent me the screenplay for About My Father, and it was the first time after reading a script that I leapt up out of my seat and said, “I have to direct this!” The film is about Sebastian’s relationship with his Sicilian immigrant father, and I have a Sicilian immigrant mother. Both our parents came to the US in the 1960s. I immediately felt such a connection to the story and themes of the film.

RD: Coming from a very Italian family myself, I know exactly what you mean. Growing up in Brooklyn, did you relate to Sebastian’s character? Were there any specific lines he said that you were like, “Yep, that was my life.”

LT: Absolutely! There were so many moments on set where I felt like DeNiro was channeling my mother. Sebastian has a stand-up bit about “the parent price,” about how kids of immigrants have to tell their parents they paid a lower price for something because if they knew what we actually paid, they would freak out. It’s so relatable.

RD: Did you have a favorite DeNiro performance before working with him?

LT: It’s too hard to choose! He’s such a master of the craft and is so committed to every film and performance. Working with him was a dream. He’s a brilliant collaborator.

BY ROBERT DOMINIC

RD: You also directed Sally Field. What is one thing about the three-time Emmy winner that would surprise our readers?

LT: She’s into booty rap. OK, maybe not exactly…but on the set of Hello, My Name is Doris, I put on some female forward dirty rap music (think Iggy Azalea) to set the tone for one of the party scenes, and she said she liked it!

RD: Love that! “Black Widow” was my summer jam back when it came out. Any dream queer actors you would love work with in the future?

LT: I’m working on a project with Fortune Feimster in mind. I think she’s one of the funniest comedians out there. I’m also working on a TV idea with my friend Emily Hampshire. I’d love to work with Kate McKinnon, Sarah Paulson, and Wanda Sykes. Our community is full of hilarious women. I think it’s time for a

lesbian Girls Trip!

RD: I already can’t wait to see it! Looking back on your youth, were there one or two movies that specifically ignited your love of filmmaking?

LT: I saw A League of Their Own when I was a kid and remember how thrilling it was to see. It was smart, funny, and inspiring and there were women at the center of it which in 1992 was a rare thing. I had the VHS and would play it over and over again—I memorized every word of it.

RD: I have to mention that you have directed a movie with a—wait for it— whopping 100% Fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes: Good Girls Get High. Why do you think that film has resonated so much with audiences?

LT: It’s amazing when critics respond positively to your work and similarly, it can be devastating when they don’t. Good Girls Get High is critic-approved, but not many people got to see it since it was only on HBO Max for a year. Meanwhile, About My Father seems to be dividing critics for some reason, but audiences love it. Ultimately, I put my heart into every film I make, and I know audiences can feel that in the work.

RD: What is one piece of advice you would give to the queer youth reading this article?

LT: Don’t be afraid of the things that make you different! They are your superpowers and embracing them will help you become the best version of yourself. ▼

About My Father is currently available to rent on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.

Robert Dominic is a freelance writer/blogger in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He is proud to be one small blue dot in a very red state. He writes for numerous publications including Instinct magazine and his own blog, “The Gays of our Lives” (gaysofourlives.net).

There were so many moments on set where I felt like DeNiro was channeling my mother.

BY DAVID GARRETT & MARY JO TARALLO

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun … And Make Music!

BETTENROO

Lori Jacobs tells an amusing story about her first encounter with a musical instrument when she was a kid. She wanted a trumpet, but her mother desperately tried to steer her toward a flute or clarinet. When her mom asked what her second favorite instrument was Lori said DRUMS. Her mother responded, “get the trumpet.”

Jacobs started playing professionally as a union musician in southeastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey at the age of 15. She plays several instruments, including lead guitar.

Anne Davey, on the other hand, never even took lessons on bass guitar, which she now plays at their shows. Instead, she borrowed her brother’s bass guitar and played along to tunes on the radio.

For years the two women had day jobs to pay the bills. Jacobs squeezed in a plethora of mini careers, working as a certified building inspector in Vermont and Pennsylvania, and as an IT pro in many locations. She owned a women’s gym in Pennsylvania, meanwhile playing as many music gigs as possible. She spent four active-duty years in the Air Force at NORAD in Colorado Springs and four years in the Air Force Reserves.

Davey was a customer service rep and quality control supervisor at Amtrak. “I also worked as an aide to special needs children while mostly raising my two boys at home,” she said.

Davey and Jacobs met in 2011, playing for the band Tangled Web in the Philadelphia area. It was Anne’s first band experience. A friend asked her to come to his band practice and join in. “I was so shy that I had never even sung karaoke before,” she said. “That one

friend was my catalyst.”

“Anne and I immediately clicked vocally,” said Jacobs, “so they hired me for rhythm guitar and vocals.”

Singing wasn’t the only thing that clicked for them. They married last summer. “Once we acknowledged that there was more than just a friendship between us, we both knew that we wanted to be together forever,” said Davey.

This year, Jacobs and Davey are celebrating their 10th year performing as Bettenroo. They claim to have had many memorable moments, giving accolades to the Rehoboth Beach community which, they say, constantly builds on their experiences. And there are others: They were interviewed on North Sydney (Australia) radio while enroute to playing a concert in Dunedin, New Zealand. “It was totally unexpected and yet another example of how connecting music can be globally,” Jacobs mused.

Known for their melodic harmony, Jacobs and Davey play at popular spots in their two home locations—Rehoboth Beach and Grand Island, Vermont. Both love the ocean and the mountains, so they feel fortunate being able to live in what they consider two of the most beautiful areas of the US—which also are areas that understand diversity and acceptance. They appreciate the sense of community, and the support of music and the arts in both locations.

“We learn a lot about different artists from our “framily” in both places; there are subtle differences in taste which really helps to expand our musical horizons, too,” said Jacobs.

Bettenroo is back in Rehoboth through August 29 for their ‘home tour.’

“I was so shy that I had never even sung karaoke before. That one friend was my catalyst.”

GIRLSROOM

Most local music lovers are quite familiar with the rock band GirlsRoom. The all-female group plays frequently at local venues plus an occasional private party.

GirlsRoom was officially formed in February 2020 when lead singer Barb Phillips reached out to Terri Brady on Bandmix.com, a website that matches up musicians, because she wanted to start a band. Brady mentioned that her sister, Jill, was the former drummer of The Girlfriends, a band that Phillips loved. Jill was putting together GirlsRoom with Terri and with Kathy Nace-Jones. The pieces all fell into place among the women and GirlsRoom became a reality. Phillips says that meeting was one of the highlights of her life.

“Our first showcase was to be on March 16, 2020,” says Phillips. “We all know what happened on that date with the shut down, so we waited until September 2020 for our first gig, at Frantic Music in Milton.” They have been busy ever since.

Nace-Jones left the group in December 2022, and in February 2023, GirlsRoom 2.0 regrouped with Lois McDuffee and Glenda Diem. McDuffee and Diem didn’t know each other until they met at their first rehearsal. The newcomers had to learn more than 50 songs in two months,

“We present a variety of music from past decades to current hits that appeal to dancers,” says Diem. “Keeping our music fresh is salient. Weekly three-hour rehearsals keep us finely tuned.” Phillips mixes up the set lists.

The Brady sisters, McDuffee, and Diem all do vocals throughout their exten sive playlist. Songs are suggested by all the band members. “If it’s danceable and we think we can all cover it, we’ll try it. If we like it, we keep it,” said Phillips.

All GirlsRoom musicians have extensive experience.

Jill Brady began playing drums at age 10 for the Media, Pennsylvania, Fawns Drum & Bugle Corp. Her first band was an all-female one called Liberty 1920. The band performed along the east coast in the mid-70s. She played in various bands around Philadelphia and joined The Girlfriends in 1983, touring along the east coast. “When Girlfriends disbanded, I really felt inclined to form a new all-female band,” said Jill. GirlsRoom jump-started her new journey.

Terri Brady also loved music from a young age. She started with acoustic guitar and percussion. Eventually, she found her niche, the bass guitar, while playing with the Natalie Darkes band, and has been known to “rock it out” on percussion with her sister Jill on any Santana song.

McDuffee plays several instruments, including the clarinet, mellophone bugle, and baritone horn, but says her first and greatest loves are singing and playing guitar. Originally self-taught, she took lessons from Steuart Smith, former guitarist for the Eagles, and jazz guitarist Ken Navarro.

Diem began her musical career in New York City, with the all-female band Girly Action. The trio played at The Village Music Hall, and other local haunts. She did a stint at Jazzmobile, where she studied guitar. For a change of pace, she sat in pit bands for theatrical performances on Broadway.

“Encouraging audience participation adds that personal touch,” adds Diem. “Music enlivens the spirit GirlsRoom delivers. Fans are the magic. We are the music. Personally, I love sharing the universal language of music because it brings joy to many.”

MAMA’S BLACK SHEEP

Once you hear Mama’s Black Sheep, you realize that you have heard some of the best music around. Ashland Miller and Laura Cerulli are the two creative and talented women who comprise this local band. The harmonies you experience; the driving drum beats and melodious guitar notes simply allow you to sit back and enjoy.

On their start as a group, they say, “We met in 2001 at a festival where we were playing in different projects. We started collaborating musically and did some studio work and touring together in various bands. Mama’s Black Sheep was formed in 2008 and we’ve been touring full-time together since then. We have always considered ourselves the black sheep of our respective families and wanted to put ‘black sheep’ in the name of the band. There was already a band called The Black Sheep and one called Black Sheep Band, so we decided putting ‘Mama’s’ in front of ‘black sheep’ added a feminine element to the name, and sort of sounded like a good band name. However, neither of our mothers think we are the black sheep of the family!”

These musicians make St. Croix their winter home in February and March each year. Their aggressive schedule reflects their dedication to their craft. St. Croix became a destination for Mama’s Black Continued on page 76

“Our first showcase was to be on March 16, 2020. We all know what happened on that date…

ourselves the black sheep of our respective families and wanted to put ‘black sheep’ in the name of the band

Listen Up!

Continued from page 75

Sheep from Miller’s time with a previous band that played there. Once she and Ce rulli got together, they vacationed there. It was a natural draw for a musical return to the island they loved.

And it’s not just about music. As they share, “St. Croix holds a very special spot in our hearts, and we do what we can to give back to this place that has been so welcoming and supportive of us. While on-island we generally perform charity events helping adults/kids/families in need, animals, and the environment. For the past several years we’ve also hosted an underwater and land clean-up at the Frederiksted Pier, a world-renowned scuba diving site.

“For the past two years we’ve had the great pleasure of playing the farewell party of the CAMP Rehoboth Women’s FEST weekend along with [other dear performers]. These shows have both been memorable and fun for us not only because we get to play music with our friends, but also to see the women’s community of Rehoboth, including many who travel in for Women’s FEST each year to support the festival, CAMP Rehoboth, and the many programs they offer.”

Deb Bievenour, of Off 24, has special insight into Mama’s Black Sheep. She occasionally sings “7 Bridges Road” with them. Her take on Cerulli and Miller is this: “They are very talented musicians and songwriters. I have followed them for years. It all started at the Pond downtown; we all looked forward to when the Sheep would come and play. Laura is amazing on percussion and singing. Her voice is like no other voice. It’s hard to believe the sound she gets out of this little drum set that she has put together. I love watching Ashland play guitar. She has such a beautiful sound and I love her southern twang that she adds.”

If you have not yet done so, make it a point to hear that twang—and great music—soon!

OFF 24

As you see these three women performing, you will get to know (left to right) Deb Bievenour (known as the Beave), Kaye Sullivan, and Lisa Balestrini Faber. None of the three members of this group are

native to the Rehoboth area. Quite by accident, they all settled here in proximity to one another—Off Route 24!

Balestrini Faber is a retired attorney, having grown up in the Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, area. She is married to her best fan, Karen. Sullivan, retired from management and HR, recalls how she made her first guitar out of wood and rubber bands as a young girl in Baltimore. Her partner lives in Spain, and they exchange trips back and forth to keep their relationship nurtured. Beave grew up in York, Pennsylvania, and is still employed in sales. She got her first guitar from her mother licking and pasting S & H Green Stamps! Beave is married to Sue, who handles the band’s equipment.

All three played guitar years ago and knew the same core set of songs. They enjoyed being together just for fun. The time it took to rehearse and do some fine-tuning was not a problem, as all this came about in the spring of 2020, the early days of COVID, and time was plentiful.

After playing around at this new gig, Beave, Sullivan, and Balestrini Faber decided to invite some friends over to listen to them jam. That paved the way for a few deck parties, and word began to spread.

The jump Off 24 needed to move from backyard gigs to serious stage presence came when Beave was asked if they

were simply a deck party-type of band, or whether they had higher aspirations. It took her all of two seconds to point toward the nearby stage and said, “That is where we want to be!” They were soon booked to play at Big Chill Beach Club.

The average patron does not realize how dependent performing groups are on good equipment, not only to generate sound, but also to enable the band members to hear themselves as they perform. That was one early discovery Off 24 made when they played at the Beach Club. It was apparent that they needed to upgrade, and quickly.

No group of musicians can just take the stage and perform; lots has to happen behind the scenes first. Off 24 has each role unofficially defined. Beave is the manager, Sullivan is the producer, and Balestrini Faber is the “muscle” and legal analyst. Though they have been performing publicly for a couple years now, they feel like they are just getting started.

Their sense of humility is evident as they pay homage to the professional musicians in the area. Balestrini Faber shared that they are cohesive and doing well for a relatively new band. Beave stated that their resume is more extensive than it used to be. New venues are now seeking to fill their band slots with Off 24.

Considering the way in which these women met, their early love of playing guitar, and their passion for singing, it is no wonder that they have become a regular part of the stage presence in the Rehoboth area. Through happenstance— or perhaps by some greater design— Beave, Sullivan, and Balestrini Faber make beautiful music together. And they live…Off 24! ▼

David Garrett, a CAMP Rehoboth Board member, is a straight advocate for equality and inclusion. He is also the proud father of an adult trans daughter. Email David Garrett at davidg@camprehoboth.com.

Mary Jo Tarallo is a former journalist and public relations professional for various non-profits including a ski industry trade association. She won a Gold Award for a United Way TV program starring Oprah Winfrey.

her mother licking and pasting S & H Green Stamps!

HEAR, HEAR! BY MATTY BROWN

Welcome to the Renaissance

When Beyoncé’s Renaissance World Tour hit the ground in Philadelphia on July 12 as the first date of the American leg, it had been almost a year since the parent album arrived. Without much promotion from the singer, Renaissance’s live outing marked an overdue, joyous, and collective release for over 70,000 fans.

Simply put, Beyoncé’s raised the bar (again) for the art of live performance. Acting as her own opener, she first sauntered out in a gown to start by belting a run of beloved ballads like “Dangerously in Love,” “1+1,” and “Flaws and All.” Then, the true party began.

Lights down, the sun set, and an invitation, “Welcome to the Renaissance,” properly set the seismic scale of the evening. It was a call to stand up and get ready to move.

The mission statement of Renaissance celebrates the unapologetic Black queer artistry that often runs overlooked in mainstream pop culture. The album incorporates elements of house, disco, and electronica amid various samples from the likes of Robin S. (“Show Me Love”) and Donna Summer (“I Feel Love”). Yet, it’s far from pastiche; it paints within the same canvas of queer touchstones and updates it with lean futurism. Even the title Renaissance suggests a callback to history, but the imagery doesn’t so much borrow from the historical period as represent its literal meaning, “rebirth.” At the show, this rebirth manifested as dancing robotics, chic Barbarella fashions, and a floating mirror ball that would rival the size of SUNFESTIVAL’s.

Plus, who knew a rebirth could be so jubilant? Surely, after the pandemic, escapist pop music was bound to be more resonant, but Beyoncé heightens that ecstasy to highlight the importance of community. In the album’s dedication, Beyoncé paid tribute specifically to her “uncle” Jonny—her gay cousin who helped raise her until his death during the AIDS epidemic, and whose photo flashed across the screen in the

concert’s final image.

In queer spheres, her commitment to the LGBTQ+ community meant devoting much attention to ballroom culture. Some highlights include Beyoncé channeling her inner ballroom emcee in the electric closing minute and a half of “HEATED” while strutting the runway in the show’s fiercest catsuit. Elsewhere, a transcendent transition from number one hit “BREAK MY SOUL” to its “Queen’s Remix,” sampled and paid homage

stunning display of liberating, LGBTQ+ artistic expression, and a satisfying understanding from Bey for when to step aside.

Perhaps the album’s thesis, “ALIEN SUPERSTAR,” hit the hardest though. It’s a declarative, powerful ode to selflove: “I’m one of one / I’m number one / I’m the only one,” so start the lyrics. It’s a thumping, electronic oddity that understands the queer paradox that in order to cloak yourself with confidence, you must simultaneously be able to not take life so seriously. In other words, it takes some masterful gusto to interpolate the meme track “I’m Too Sexy” and still sound so effortlessly cool.

Indeed, this was one of Beyoncé’s most notable feats: known as one of the industry’s biggest perfectionists, the star is now having more fun than ever with herself on this tour. She’s laughing at flubs, interacting with fans’ signs, and shimmying silly to the “AMERICA HAS A PROBLEM” introductory bassline. Mind you: this is still a well-oiled, tightly produced pop show. But it’s nice to see her adopt the joyful spirit of Renaissance as a chance to let loose.

to Madonna’s 1990 hit “Vogue,” while updating its Hollywood reference points to salute the Black women who inspire Beyoncé.

Not only did that transition feature the introductory “Vogue” synth known to summon all in earshot to the dancefloor, but it also captured an impromptu heartfelt “I love you… thank you” from Bey to drag queen and club artist Kevin Aviance, who was in attendance and whose 90s single “C*nty” is sampled on the penultimate tour number “PURE/ HONEY.” A clip circulated after the show of Kevin overwhelmed with emotion, crying into his hands at the recognition. It’s a testament to the power in bringing art previously reserved for the sidelines to the stadium stage.

Later, during “PURE/HONEY,” Beyoncé left the stage while centering the tour’s dance troupe, who launched into a voguing dance-off. It was a

In essence, Renaissance World Tour became its own safe space to release stress, feel freedom, and join with others to, for a moment, embrace one’s own alien superstar without judgment. The celebration felt earned for its audience. In a time when hundreds of bills and legislation nationwide aim to target the LGBTQ+ community for its existence, one of the biggest popstars in the world is using her platform to show the unfettered defiance of queer joy. Here’s hoping this Renaissance—just like the historical one—becomes a movement. ▼

Matty Brown is the Communications Manager at CAMP Rehoboth.

In a time when hundreds of bills and legislation nationwide aim to target the LGBTQ+ community for its existence, one of the biggest popstars in the world is using her platform to show the unfettered defiance of queer joy.

THOSE SUMMER NIGHTS

How Well Do You Sleep?

Sleep is my favorite activity. I love to snuggle in my king-size bed with my dogs and drift into darkness almost as soon as my head hits the pillow. I never get into bed before I am tired, which is usually the same time every night.

Adequate sleep always has been a priority. I’m cranky, groggy, hungry, and slow-moving if I don’t get my seven to eight hours. I’m not alone.

I envied those friends and work colleagues who say they only need five hours of sleep a night but, according to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), they are fooling themselves. Very few adults can function optimally on just five hours. NSF says adults need at least seven hours per night.

While sleep patterns may change as we age, the amount of sleep the body needs usually does not. Older people may wake up more frequently throughout the night and end up getting less sleep during the overnight hours. However, their need for sleep is not drastically less than that of younger adults.

I was often teased for being the party pooper who HAD to get a good night’s sleep. But it turns out my stubbornness has contributed to my excellent health. According to NSF, sleep allows the brain and body to slow down and recover, promoting better physical and mental performance the next day and over the long term.

What happens when you don’t sleep is that these processes are short circuited, affecting thinking, concentration, energy levels, and mood. Yet more than one-third of US adults sleep less than seven hours per night on average. This may be why almost half say they are tired during the day.

Sleep science has developed significantly in the past 20 years, providing more insights into the importance of sleep. Chronic insufficient sleep and untreated sleep disorders are linked to increased health and safety risks such as cardiovascular disease, compromised

immune function, diabetes, obesity, workplace accidents, and motor vehicle crashes.

Sleep duration is important, but sleep quality is also important. Fragmented sleep marked by numerous awakenings can interfere with the ability to properly move through the sleep cycle, decreasing time spent in the most restorative stages of sleep—a time when cells and organs are rejuvenated.

insomnia all wrong.

BY PATTIE CINELLI

Some friends turn to naps to make up for a bad night. While naps may increase performance and better your mood, if you struggle with frequent insomnia, they may worsen the problem. The Mayo Clinic suggests taking 10- to 20-minute naps before 3:00 p.m. if you must. Having a routine time to nap seems to help.

The past few years I began waking up and was not able to go back to sleep. I’d just toss and turn and stay in bed (sometimes for hours) hoping and praying my eyelids would become heavy and I’d drift off. Sometimes I’d put on the TV. I was dealing with my middle-of-the-night

Research has shown it’s better to get up, keep the lights low, and do something relaxing and quiet such as reading a book, until you get drowsy. Do not use any electronic devices, including a TV. It’s that blue light stimulation you want to avoid. It messes with your circadian rhythm and melatonin production. Abrupt changes in sound and loud noises also can disrupt sleep.

I surmised that part of the reason I woke up during the night was because I had cut down on my exercise. I was onto something: research has demonstrated that exercise can reduce the amount of time it takes for adults to fall asleep and decrease the amount of time spent lying awake in bed. Today’s workout will improve tonight’s sleep.

You may initially feel sleepy from having a few nightcaps, but consuming alcohol will disturb restorative sleep later in the night. Alcohol blocks REM sleep and turns on alpha brain waves which inhibit quality sleep. Avoid alcohol within three hours and caffeine within 10 hours of bedtime.

The pandemic shutdown upended routines, created more screen time, increased alcohol consumption, and dissolved boundaries between work and private life—all of which contribute to sleep problems. Even before the shutdown, between 50 and 70 million Americans suffered from a sleep disorder, usually insomnia, according to the NSF.

The good news is solutions are abundant. It takes a bit of experimentation, determination, and consistency to easily fall asleep and enjoy a great night of uninterrupted sleep. But it’s oh, so worth it!

For more information: nationalsleepfoundation.org. ▼

Pattie Cinelli is a journalist who focuses on non-traditional ways to stay healthy, get fit, and be well. Please email her with questions or column suggestions at: fitmiss44@aol.com.

Photo: Oriel Mizrah on unsplash.

I was dealing with my middle-of-the-night insomnia all wrong.

BY ANN APTAKER

Harlem Rebel: Richard Bruce Nugent

Generally, when we think of the Harlem Renaissance, that great outpouring of African American cultural creativity in the 1920s, we think of the major figures of that movement, i.e., Langston Hughes, Alain Locke, Zora Neale Hurston, Countee Cullen, and Claude McKay, among others. Theirs was a two-pronged, sometimes contradictory cultural effort; on the one hand, to express an original African American voice in literature and the other arts, independent of dominant white culture; on the other hand, to have African American creative expression find a respected place as an integral part of American culture.

Writer, artist, actor, and dancer Richard Bruce Nugent had a rather different attitude. For him, the concept of acceptance by the mainstream, both Black and white, was less important than a life—and an art—lived in personal truth.

Though it was an open secret that a number of the Harlem Renaissance’s most noted figures were homosexual, it was nevertheless still treated as a secret, the details of their gay life kept among themselves. Nugent was having none of that.

So who was Richard Bruce Nugent?

He was born in Washington, DC, in 1906, to Richard Henry Nugent and Pauline Minerva Bruce Nugent. The family was solidly middle class, with Henry’s secure job as a Pullman porter and Pauline’s career as a pianist. When Henry died of tuberculosis when Richard was just 13 years old, Pauline moved with Richard and his younger brother Gary to New York’s Harlem.

The neighborhood was in its early stages as a Mecca of African American culture and politics, and young Richard thrived in the brewing energy. He worked odd jobs through the age of 18 to contribute money to the family, but his inner energy was quickly plugging into Harlem’s evolving cultural excitement. Sometime in 1924, he admitted to his mother that he wanted to become a writer. Pauline, worried about her son leading the unstable

life of an artist, sent him back to Washington to live with his grandmother.

But the urge to create was too strong in young Richard, and luck, too, was on his side. According to Nugent’s bio at the Academy of American Poets, Nugent became a regular attendee at the Saturday

only—issue featured Nugent’s short story, “Smoke, Lilies and Jade.” The story is credited as the first literary work by an African American with homosexuality as its central theme. The story’s protagonist, Alex, proudly states, “You see, I am a homosexual. I have never been in what they call ‘the closet.’ It never occurred to me that it was anything to be ashamed of, and it never occurred to me that it was anybody’s business but mine.”

That was in 1926, when such declarations could get you arrested, or worse. How’s that for Out and Proud?! Nugent lived his gay life openly, refusing to hide or sublimate it.

In addition to his literary life, Nugent was also an actor and dancer. In 1927, he appeared in Porgy, the non-musical play which prefigured Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess, and in 1933 Nugent danced in the Broadway production of Run, Little Chillun

night literary salons hosted by playwright and poet Georgia Douglas Johnson. It was at one of these evenings in 1925 that Nugent met poet Langston Hughes. The two became friends, and Nugent returned to Harlem with Hughes, who introduced the young aspiring writer to Harlem’s other literary and artistic figures.

It was now that Nugent’s radical spirit found its strength. Rather than practice an art which sought a place in the dominant heterosexual literary and cultural worlds, Nugent, who had fully embraced his homosexuality, began writing works which reflected this personal truth. Together with Hughes and novelist Wallace Thurman, Nugent launched the culturally radical publication Fire!!

The magazine’s first—and, sadly,

Nugent remained faithful to the idea of a unique and independent African American art and culture centered in Harlem, and in the 1960s became one of the founders and guiding lights of the Harlem Cultural Council. The council was largely responsible for much of the funding for the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, an institution which still thrives today under the auspices of the New York Public Library system.

In the 1980s, Nugent’s work gained new attention. His literature was featured in Michael J. Smith’s 1983 publication, Black Men/White Men: A Gay Anthology. In 1986, his interview with Joseph Bream was published in In the Life: A Black Gay Anthology.

Writer, actor, dancer, visual artist— Richard Bruce Nugent was a true Renaissance man of Harlem. Out and proud, indeed. ▼

Ann Aptaker is the author of short stories and the Lambda & Goldie award winning Cantor Gold series. Her new book, A Crime of Secrets, was released July 4, 2023.

Nugent’s short story, “Smoke, Lilies and Jade,”…is credited as the first literary work by an African American with homosexuality as its central theme.

BY LESLIE SINCLAIR

SPOTLIGHT ON THE arts

CAMP Rehoboth Puts Art at the Heart of Our Community

Summer may be winding down, but the visual arts at CAMP Rehoboth are going strong with two fabulous group shows and a lot of talent and fun!

Award Winners XXIII Exhibition

Work by the Delaware Division of the Arts Individual Fellowship Award Winners is on display at CAMP Rehoboth until September 8. If you have not yet seen it, make the time to stop by!

A fun opening reception was hosted at CAMP Rehoboth on August 10. Many community members, including VIPs, stopped by to congratulate the artists, and enjoy the exhibition and readings by the literary winners.

Each year, the Delaware Division of the Arts awards individual fellowships to several Delaware artists working in a variety of mediums, including literature,

visual arts, performance arts, photography, and sculpture. These Individual Artist Fellowships recognize artists for the outstanding quality of their work and provide monetary awards.

In 2023, 17 fellowships were awarded to artists living throughout Delaware. Of the 17 awards, two were awarded in the Master category ($12,000), seven in the Established Professional category ($8,000), and eight in the Emerging Professional category ($5,000).

One highlight of the CAMP Rehoboth exhibit is work by B. Proud, winner of a Master award in Photography, whose photographs feature transgender and gender nonconforming couples and families. Lauren E. Peters’ large self-portraits in oil have impact. Cony Madariaga’s George Floyd acrylic is moving.

The exhibit also includes sculptures, fabric art, and a reading nook. Spend some time watching TAHIRA, winner of a Master award in the category Folk Arts: Oral Literature, tell her story, and read poems by Christopher Penna (Established Professional, Literature: Poetry).

Upon its conclusion at CAMP Rehoboth, the art in this exhibition will travel to New Castle County where it will appear at Cab Calloway School of the Arts.

The complete list of awardees includes:

MASTERS

• B. Proud (Visual Arts: Photography)

• TAHIRA (Folk Arts: Oral Literature)

ESTABLISHED PROFESSIONALS

• Joyce Barbagallo (Literature: Fiction)

• Ron Meick (Visual Arts: Sculpture)

• Michael Miller (Folk Art: Music)

• Mary Pauer (Literature: Creative Nonfiction)

• Christopher Penna (Literature: Poetry)

• Lauren E. Peters (Visual Arts: Painting)

• IVA (Music: Contemporary Performance)

EMERGING PROFESSIONALS

• Jill Althouse-Wood (Visual Arts: Painting)

• Bryant “Tee” Bell (Visual Arts: Painting)

• Liz DeJesus (Literature: Creative Nonfiction)

• Constanza (Cony) Madariaga (Visual Arts: Painting)

• James Morgan (Media Arts: Video/ Film)

• Charlese Phillips (Visual Arts: Interdisciplinary)

• Kim Hoey Stevenson (Literature: Fiction)

• Anne Yarbrough (Literature: Poetry)

Read more about each Individual Artist Fellow at arts.delaware.gov/ iafrecipients/

This program is supported, in part, by a grant from the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state agency, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts. The Division promotes Delaware arts events on DelawareScene.com.

Left: George Floyd by Cony Madariaga.

Paper Boats (below) is a poem by Established Professional Christopher Penna, who began writing poetry in his teens.

PAPER BOATS (2021)

It’s drawn from memory this lake of violets near the broken branches last winter’s storm took down. The rest of the yard fades to twigs and leaves and bare background.

Shape the lines, work in the breathing blue, look up again to see if you remember what you saw before you looked down to draw.

Or compose some different lines across a different page.

Stare again before you look down to write the words, cross out, rephrase.

It’s against the grain this drawing from memory, this launching of paper boats on the fading blue

of what we see hoping just the same to hold onto what we saw, or what we thought we knew, before we wrote or drew.

The CAMP Rehoboth Gallery is open from 10:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. ▼

It’s All About the Bear

InSeptember, the Bears are back in It’s All About the Bear, an art exhibition on display at CAMP Rehoboth from September 14 until October 7, 2023.

These are not your four-legged variety of bears, but a group of men in the gay community who call themselves “Bears.” CAMP Rehoboth uses art to illuminate the talent of the community and explore pertinent themes that enlighten, educate, and build community. This exhibition celebrates the bears and

runs in conjunction with the annual Rehoboth Beach Bears Weekend (September 14 to 17).

A team of community members will curate this exhibit of bear-friendly art.

This exhibition is open to all. Watch the website (camprehoboth. com) for details, or call to register and enter (302-227-5620). Move quickly as deadline is August 20, 2023, at 11:59 p.m.▼

(Left, top to bottom): Quinta Brunson by Charlese Phillips; Self portrait (coquette) by Lauren E Peters; Wolf Whistle by Jill AlthouseWood; Pray for Us by Bryant T. Bell.

- CHRISTOPHER PENNA

Beary Black Bear by Max Fleishman

BOOKED SOLID

Gays on Broadway by Ethan Mordden c.2023, Oxford University Press, $29.95, 233 pages

You had to look around you and check your seat.

Yep, you were still in a theater in a large building, fanny planted in a dusty red seat. You weren’t in a Brooklyn tenement or a castle, or at a society party, but the performance you caught made you think you were, at least for a couple hours. As they say, and as in the new book, Gays on Broadway by Ethan Mordden, the play’s the thing.

Perhaps not surprisingly, the LGBTQ+ history of the Great White Way “starts with drag queens.” In the earliest parts of the twentieth century, many comedies were written “specifically calling for a male character forced...to disguise himself as a woman,” often to the delight of audiences. Still, any overt mention of such things was forbidden then.

By the 1930s, Mordden says, “our tour mostly starts now.” Not only were audiences treated to titillating hints of gayness that were barely concealed, but the “odd gay character” often showed up in plays on purpose. And yet, behind the scenes, few gay or lesbian actors dared to come out; many of them, instead, entered “lavender marriages.”

In 1942, New York’s “Wales Law,” a sort of Hays Code for Broadway, shut down a “salute to vaudeville,” putting all of Broadway on notice. Even so, “gay characters did turn up in a few postwar titles.” This was, after all, a time when Tennessee Williams’ hand was all over theater—especially with what Mordden calls his “Beautiful Male” character: shirtless, buff, and

by Terri Schlichenmeyer

highly memorable for gay audiences.

In the 1950s, Williams’ influence was joined by some “honestly gay characters” onstage, and by the talents of Tallulah Bankhead, who “maintained a strong association with camp humor.” By the 1960s, “gay characters were everywhere on Broadway,” the word “gay” was acceptable, and the adventurous theatergoer could find nudity off-Broadway.

A decade later, though Broadway was “still partly stuck in stereotype mode,” says Mordden, “now it was the turn of gay people.”

You’ve seen your favorite play...how many times? You’ve followed a handful of actors from off-Broadway to on, and you’ve discovered some intriguing talent. And now you need Gays on Broadway to fill in the gaps in your knowledge and to see how it all began.

Starting more than a century ago—before movies were a thing and TV was invented—author Ethan Mordden acts as a sort of usher as he takes readers on a trip that goes both backand on-stage. Mordden casually but constantly name-drops, and it’s good to see often-forgotten actors mentioned in a way that may spur you to learn more about them and their long-ago plays. He also delightfully highlights the cleverness of actors and writers who winked at audiences when “gay” was a bad word.

Almost as much fun as collecting playbills, almost as good as a seat behind the orchestra, this is one of those books that theatergoers will want to take to the show to read during intermission. Get Gays on Broadway and take a seat. ▼

Terri Schlichenmeyer’s second book, The Big Book of American Facts, comes out this fall. Her first (Big Book of Facts) is available now in bookstores.

Vince Nikolov PARTNER

LIGHTS OUT

Tribute To Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons

September 3 - 8PM

T H E J O K E M A N " M A R T L I N G : C o m e d y S h o w

S E P T 6 - D E L M A R V A B I G B A N D : 1 8 - P i e c e E n s e m b l e

S E P T 7 - U N I V E R S A L F U N K O R D E R : Q u a y s i d e @ N i t e

S E

Continued

Shirley Semple*

Joann Seppelt

Dale Sheldon & Pat Coluzzi X

Banner Sheppard & Marlin Hubler

Kelly Sheridan & Debra Quinton*

David Sherman X

George Shevlin & Jack Suwanlert*

William Shively & TD Stanger

Davis Short & Beverly Castner

Frank Silverio X

Marc Silverman & John Campbell*

Joanne Sinsheimer & Margaret Beatty*

Sandra Skidmore X

Ken Skrzesz X

Jeffrey Slavin X

Anne Smith & Lisa Taylor

Carol Smith*

Harlan Joe Smith & Dustin Abshire*

Leonard Smith X

Rosanne Smith & Brenda Butterfield*

Rich Snell X

Sandra Sommerfield & Cindy Scott X

Dee Speck & Linda Kauffman X

Jim Spellman X

Lorraine Stanish & Beverly Miller*

Christy Steer X

Frank Sterner X

Diane Stetina

Shelley Stevens & Joanne Locke

Lisa Stewart X

Libby Stiff & Bea Wagner X

Russell & Patricia Stiles*

Allison Stine & Pete Jamieson*

Terry Stinson*

Caroline Stites & Elizabeth Coit X

Tracy Stith & Laura McCarthy

Dr. Frederick C. Stoner *

Michael Stover*

Christine Strauss X

Lois Strauss X

Jackie Sullivan & Sharon Padbury

John Swift & Ron Bowman X

Stephen Szymanski

Gail Tannenbaum & Wendy Walker*

Ronald Tate & Jacob Schiavo X

Susan & Jill Taylor

Micaela Tedford X

David Thomas & David Tiburzio X

The Hon. Henry E. Thomas IV & John-Kevin Litschgi X

Barb Thompson X

Thomas Tibbetts X

Otto F. Tidwell X

Cassandra Toroian X

Manny Tortosa X

Steve Touzell & Marshall Scott Beadle

Cheryll & Bill Trefzger*

Steve Triglia X

Roz Troupin & Mary Harris X

Patricia Truitt*

Matt Turlinski & Jerry Sipes X

Ed Turner & Steve Baker X

Judy Twell & Cheri Himmelheber*

Charles Tyrrell

Bruce Uliss X

Michael Utasi

Debra Van Dyke*

Jennifer Varone*

V. James Villareale - & In Memory of Dale Ebert*

Beverly Vogt & Waneeta Mack X

Patrick Wadsworth & Mike Converse X

Scott Wagner & John Sohonage*

Eric Wahl & Eric Coverdale*

Marianne Walch X

Jennifer Walker & Mary Ann Veitch X

Paula Walker & Gayle Dumonceaux

David Wall & Robert Houck*

Valerie Walters

Kenneth E. Walz & Robert G. Ward, Jr. X

Garold Wampler X

Michael E. Ward X

Sharyn Warwick X

Ellen Watkins X

Troy Watson & Dennis Wolfgang*

Debbie Webber & Terry McQuaid*

Michael & Angel Welborn

West Side New Beginnings

Donna West

Patricia West

Carl R. Wetzel X

Liz Wheeler & Ruth Morse X

Steve White X

Thomas White & Robert Freeman X

Phil & Stephanie Wikes*

Steven Wildasin

Keith Wilkinson X

Diane & Ken Williams

Jim Williams*

Rich Williams X

Kelly Williamson & J Ellis

Donna L. Wilson & Laurie R. Levin X

Lynn Wilson*

Sue Wilson

David Wolanski*

Max Wolf X

Carol Woodcock & Carol Lewis*

Cody Woodfin & Rich Morgan

Robert B. Wright X

Alexander G. Yearley X

James E. Yiaski X

Linda Yingst*

Vickie York X

Kay Young

James Zeigler & In Memory of Sam Deetz*

Lisa Zimmerman X

Karl Zoric & Mark Pipkin X

RAINBOW MEMBERS RECEIVE:

• Basic Membership Package

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PAY ANNUALLY or MONTHLY

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Basic + 25% ticket discount and one 1/4 page ad in Letters from CAMP Rehoboth

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Basic + 20% ticket discount

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Names in bold are new or upgraded members as of August 6, 2023

Founders’ Circle designation has been added to our Membership roster. Please send kudos, questions, or listing updates to membership@camprehoboth.com.

☐ Enclosed is my check payable to CAMP Rehoboth for the full annual amount.

☐ Please charge my Recurring Monthly or Annual Membership fee to:

THE LEE ANN WILKINSON GROUP

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HOMESERVICES I PENFED REALTY AND DELAWARE HUMANITIES PRESENT

FIND YOUR PLACE IN HISTORY

2023 HISTORY BOOK FESTIVAL LEWES, DELAWARE

Two of the 24 authors featured at the seventh annual History Book Festival

Lev AC Rosen | The Bell in the Fog

In 1952 San Francisco, gay men like Andy Mills walk a tightrope daily: if people find out who they really are, their careers—indeed their lives—could be threatened. Andy, a former cop, has started a new life as a private detective, but no one in the queer community trusts him enough to ask for help. When James, an old flame from the war who had mysteriously disappeared, arrives in his office, Andy wants to kick him out. But the job seems to be a simple case of blackmail, and Andy’s debts are piling up. He agrees to investigate, despite everything the case stirs up from his past. Presented in partnership with CAMP Rehoboth.

Cheryl A. Head | Time’s Undoing

This novel about a young Black journalist’s search for answers in the unsolved murder of her great-grandfather in segregated Birmingham, Alabama, in 1929 was inspired by the author’s own family history. Meghan McKenzie, a reporter at the Detroit Free Press in 2019, has grown up hearing family lore about her greatgrandfather’s murder, but no one knows what really happened, and his body was never found. Determined to find answers to her family’s long-buried tragedy, and spurred by the Black Lives Matter movement, Meghan travels to Birmingham to uncover the truth.

Presented in partnership with Southern Delaware Alliance for Racial Justice.

BOOK SALES BY BROWSEABOUT BOOKS

SEPTEMBER 29, 30 & OCTOBER 1, 2023

BY ERIC W. WAHL

An Alternative Groundcover: Coreopsis

Many people ask how to keep weeds down in their planting beds, or how to fill empty space in their beds, or even what to plant as an alternative to ivy, juniper, or other commonly used groundcovers. One answer: consider using one of the many species of coreopsis as an alternative groundcover, as it offers numerous benefits, especially those species native to the mid-Atlantic region.

Coreopsis is one of my all-time favorite perennials and I use it quite a lot in my designs for groundcover. It fills space with a low-flowering species and brightens a corner of a garden with the intense yellow blooms. (Coreopsis comes in varying shades of yellow and may even have oranges, reds, and pinks in their color spectrum.)

Their name comes from the Greek words “koris” and “opsis” meaning “like a bug.” Their common name is tickseed, which also reflects this bug-like meaning. The name comes from the seeds’ resemblance to ticks.

Birds may feed on coreopsis seeds, but oftentimes homeowners cut back their blooms before—or right after—they go to seed. Consider deadheading once during mid-season and then let the second flush go to seed in the fall, providing some much-needed nourishment to our feathered friends.

Growing coreopsis is quite easy and can be done in the garden or in containers on a patio. They prefer well-drained soils and will do very well in sandy areas. Some species form clumps and some spread by rhizomes (underground stems). Coreopsis verticillate, or thread leaf coreopsis, spreads by these underground stems and overwinters better than species that clump. They prefer full sun and bloom best under these conditions.

There are numerous cultivars and varieties of Coreopsis verticillata. “Moonbeam” is very common and has a beautiful creamy yellow flower. They are

readily available at local nurseries. Mt. Cuba, in northern Delaware, performed trials featuring coreopsis that concluded with a report in 2015. They found one of the best-performing thread leaf coreopsis was “Zagreb,” which only grows to be roughly 20 inches in height. It also grows in such a way that all their blooms are close to the same height, making it appear like a carpet of gold in your garden. Because they spread by rhizomes, be sure to give them room as they can expand up to two feet over a couple of years.

Besides being attractive, coreopsis also helps to control weeds since they can grow to be a dense groundcover, suppressing weedy plants. They also attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. As mentioned previously, birds consume their seeds if left to remain on the plant after pollination. Coreopsis is drought tolerant and said to be rabbit and deer tolerant as well.

Planting coreopsis in your gardens will most assuredly bring joy and cheer with their boundless blooms of golds and yellows that brighten the garden, as well your day. Coreopsis can also be a sharing plant as they can be divided once every two to three years to help keep their appearance and shape. Many of my previous articles talk of sharing the bounty that’s in the garden with friends and family, and coreopsis works very well for that purpose.

With all these amazing attributes and benefits, it sounds like coreopsis is a must-have plant in your landscape! Try it—you won’t be disappointed.

Be well, and let’s garden together. ▼

Growing coreopsis is quite easy and can be done in the garden or in containers on a patio.

Eric W. Wahl is Landscape Architect at Pennoni Associates, and President of the Delaware Native Plant Society.

A MEALS ON WHEELS DELAWARE EVENT

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2023

10:30AM - 1:30PM I REHOBOTH BEACH COUNTRY CLUB

Guests will enjoy a seated upscale brunch with cocktail pairings overlooking the bay. Mix and mingle during the welcome reception featuring local chefs preparing hors d’oeuvres and desserts plus wine, spirits, craft brews and specialty cocktails.

Ticket & Event Information: MealsOnWheelsDE.org

SCENES FROM REHOBOTH BEACH

(Continued from page 55)

THIS PAGE (left to right) 1) at Poodle Beach: Tony Zacchei, Bryan McNulty, Jacob Anthony, Tim Steffen, Danny Purcell, Cole Sinclair, Bobby Kilpatrick, Anthony Alba, Steve Damatto, Shelley Raimondo, Jon Kaplan, Brian Helsdon, Sam Gambino; 2) at The Pines: DE House Majority Whip Kerri Evelyn Harris, Misondri Smartt-Harris, DE State Auditor Lydia York, Mitch Crane, DE US Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester, Alyssa Bradley, Michele Broadway, Chris Beagle, Mark Purpura, Andora Te’Tee, Roxy Overbrooke, Tatyianna Voche, DE US Representative Lisa Blunt Rochester, Dana St. James, Mona Lotts. 3) at Aqua: Thomas Thompson, Larry Richardson, Steve Falchek, John Offanini, David Bedeg, Sam Meinke.

OPPOSITE PAGE: 4) at Aqua: Lowell Scott, Matt Carr, Jonathan Shellem, Scott Helms, Jeffrey Kusch, Jorge Alonzo, Jeff Brydzinski, Jorge Alvarez, Tyler Prete, Norman Hunt, Ken Davies, Chris Cahill, Kirk Rieckhoff, Charlie Salem, Terry Johnson, Scott Toland, Mark Lenard, Cody Ratcliffe, George Bailey, Brian Wright, Eileen O’Neill, Jacob Anthony, Brad Driver, Stacey Jennings; 5) at Theo’s Restaurant: John Roane, Doug Lingenfelter, Keith Fatula, Casey Bateman, Michael Skinner, Mark Wiedorfer, Michael Fishman, Mark Tucker, Jeremy Clark, Charles Bounds. ▼

A HOME AWAY FROM HOME BY

MARY JO TARALLO

Hosting the Troupe

Peter Pizzalongo admits that he always wanted to be an actor/ singer/dancer, preferably on Broadway. He did some acting in high school and with his Catholic Youth Organization.

“I wanted to be Barnaby in Hello Dolly, Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors, Marius or Jean Valjean in Les Mis,” he mused. “Now I’d be Mr. Vandergelder, Mr. Munchkin, Mr. Thenardier,” some of the more “mature” characters in those shows. His husband, Carlos Prugue, also acted in college.

They moved from DC to Rehoboth in 2018 with their passion for the theater intact. Pizzalongo and Prugue are among the Clear Space Theater Company’s cadre of host families who volunteer to house actors performing in shows. The experience seems to offer a whole new perspective to the theater.

“Having a 20-something in the house is energizing,” Pizzalongo said. “Because our actors have the whole second floor— living room, bedroom, and bathroom—we become a gathering place during the July-August season.”

Their current actor is Thomas Higgins who plays the lead in The Spongebob Musical. “From the second I arrived they have been nothing but kind, generous, and truly have welcomed me with open arms,” he said. He grew up in Wichita, Kansas, but currently attends Rider University in New Jersey.

Sam and Diane Markman started hosting summer actors five years ago and have accommodated eight so far, including their current two—Leilani Carr and Tiffany Beckford. The Markmans gave hosting “a try” because their house had ample room, and they felt it was great way to stay in touch with a younger generation. A side benefit is meeting and networking with other hosts.

Actors appear in all three rotating shows during the summer and juggle demanding schedules. They often do not frequently cross paths with their hosts.

“Doing shows six days a week is hard work but, especially with the casts we

have, it’s also fun,” said Beckford who has a starring role in Kinky Boots. “Also, switching between shows each week is an interesting experience because you must reorient yourself in a way to gear

saw it as an opportunity to attract quality performers from outside the region. They have hosted eight actors, mostly during the summer, but also have hosted for the spring and fall productions. Dan Feldman is their current actor.

This was Matt Lukasiak’s first summer hosting. He believes in supporting live theater at the beach and has made several friendships because of his volunteer efforts. “Inviting a stranger into your home is an interesting experience,” says Matt. “My actor, Dean Marino, has stayed all over the place and in many different situations, so he is much more accustomed to sharing the space.” Marino also has a lead role in Kinky Boots

Manino says he chose to be an actor because “I have a passion for bringing people joy and entertainment.” He graduated in 2022 from NYU with a master’s degree in Theatre Education. “This has been a wonderful summer and I’m so happy to be in a town where everyone is excited to make others smile, whether they are buying ice cream or purchasing a book at Browseabout,” he said.

up for each character. You also surprise yourself with how many things become muscle memory.”

John Pitchford and husband Lenny Stumpf are hosting Val Kilmer look-alike Scott Taylor-Cole this summer and they follow the careers of former actors-in-residence. “Many have gone on to roles in national tours and Broadway shows,” said Pitchford. Their first actor, Zach Bravo, performed as Rum Tum Tugger in the national tour of Cats and he is currently performing six swing roles in a national tour of Hamilton

“Actors have their own personalities, eating habits, and cooking skills, but we typically end up living together as a family, with them welcome to share our food and eat with us when their schedule permits,” said Pitchford. “We want them to be comfortable.”

2023 Season Sponsors Alice and Alfred Willis have hosted for six years. They

Forming new relationships with actors and their families, meeting and networking with other host families, and a strong sense of support for the theater are common denominators for hosts.

“The excitement of being in a theater with hundreds of people who share the same love, to see a production written and performed by the best of the best, to be taken away by a good story told in an excellent way—it’s exhilarating,” says Pizzalongo. ▼

Mary Jo Tarallo is a former journalist and public relations professional for various non-profits including a ski industry trade association. She won a Gold Award for a United Way TV program starring Oprah Winfrey.

Photo L-R: Carlos Prugue, Thomas Higgins, Peter Pizzolongo. Photo by Mary Jo Tarallo.

“Having a 20-something in the house is energizing…”

DELAWARE HOSPICE AT SAINT FRANCIS

B E N E F I T S F O R L O V E D O N E S

• 24/7 Expert Care

• Home-Like Setting

• Respite Stays

Call

LGBTQ+ Teens at Risk

Continued from page 38

Advocate for safe schools. Make sure your community’s schools are providing an inclusive and safe environment for LGBTQ+ kids and are actively preventing bullying.

RESOURCES

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers 24/7 specialized services for LGBTQ+ young people. To access them, LGBTQ+ people under age 25 can call 988 and press 3 or opt in via chat or text.

The Trans Lifeline is a grassroots hotline offering direct emotional and financial support to trans people in crisis—for the trans community, by the trans community: translifeline. org; 877-565-8860.

The It Gets Better Project is a nonprofit organization with a mission to uplift, empower, and connect lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer youth around the globe. itgetsbetter.org/

The Trevor Project is a national organization focused on crisis and suicide prevention among LGBTQ youth: thetrevorproject.org.

Celebrity Interview

Continued from page 42

When I talk about my mom, Drew comes and hugs me because, she says, “I feel your mom here.” My mom had only been to New York one time—it’s not like she was based in New York where we do the show—but my mom is there.

MC: For myself, there is no “me” or what I have gotten to accomplish without my partner in my corner. Do you feel the same way?

RM: What’s interesting is that my husband and I met each other when we were 40. I brought with me my level of success and he is very successful in his own right—he has a doctorate in education. We came to the table as fully formed people, or so we thought. Because then when we met each other, it was almost like he lent me his power and I lent him mine and we became stronger individually—and a superpower together. ▼

Follow Ross Matthews on Instagram: instagram.com/ helloross/?hl=en

Ross Matthews is on the road now with his show I Gotchu, Girl! Get tickets here: helloross.com/

Michael Cook has been a part-time resident of Rehoboth Beach for over a decade. He is currently a contributor to Instinct Magazine, World of Wonder’s WOW Report, and South Florida Gay News.

Nancy Sakaduski is an award-winning writer and editor who owns Cat & Mouse Press in Lewes, Delaware.

“If someone has an interest, a passion that they want to follow, the DCF makes it very easy to set up whatever vehicle they decide they want to use. It might be a scholarship, it might be a research fund, but the DCF is very knowledgeable and can tailor it to what the person may be thinking about.”

Anonymous Donor, Frankford

Judith Ann Celli

Judith Ann Celli, 80, of Millsboro, passed away July 21, 2023. She was born June 24, 1943, in Norristown, Pennsylvania, daughter of the late Joseph and Dorothy (Primavera) Celli.

Judith was a 1962 graduate of Plymouth White Marsh High School in Norristown. A proud veteran, Judith had a brief career in finance before answering the call to serve her country in the US Army. Judith served honorably and after she had completed her service, she returned to a career in finance, working for the Department of Defense until her retirement. During that time Judith met her life partner, Lisa, and after 21 years together, they married July 5, 2013.

Judith had a passion for classic cars and loved her little red ’98 Chevy S10 SS, which she enjoyed taking for a drive

Stephen O’Donnell

Stephen O’Donnell passed away on July 6, 2023, after a hard-fought battle with COVID-19/pneumonia. “Steve,” as he was known by everybody, was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, April 6, 1965, to the late Hugh Patrick and Anna Mae O’Donnell.

Steve grew up in Glenolden, Pennsylvania; a huge Philly sports fan, he loved watching and attending the games with his family and friends. This past year he fulfilled a dream to see his Eagles at the Super Bowl in Arizona.

Stephen, as he was called only by his wife, would have celebrated 39 years of marriage this September. He and Jeanine met in high school while working at Roy Rogers, where he boldly asked her to the prom. They created a beautiful life together, which began in Millsboro at 19.

Steve went to school for accounting and graduated with a master’s degree from Wilmington University. A successful career in manufacturing accounting took him to Scott Paper and Playtex. He then landed his Irishman’s dream job at Dogfish Head and finally, Mispillion River

to enjoy nature, local farm animals, and especially, cruising her neighborhood to say hello to everyone. Being mechanically inclined, Judith always gave it her best shot to fix things that were broken. She was a natural problem-solver, and always wanted to help those in need.

Judith had a green thumb and could nurse any wilting plant or flower back to health. Judith believed that every living thing had value, and if she could help something thrive that most people would discard, it brought her joy. She had a soft spot for animals less fortunate and always thought the Canada geese got a bad rap!

Judith and Lisa enjoyed traveling whenever they could. Some of her favorite memories were of the Caribbean cruises that they took together.

Judith was a woman of high standards

Brewing, and Brick Works Brewing and Eats.

Steve and Jeanine loved to travel and were of the mindset that good health and life were never promised. They did as much as they could together and with their family and friends whenever they were able. A lover of an eclectic mix of music from Aerosmith, Foo Fighters, Fleetwood Mac, and Irish music to Andrea Bocelli and his favorite Broadway musical, Phantom of the Opera, Steve never passed up a good concert.

Steve adored his daughters, Michele and Ashley, and was an incredible Dad to his girls; he was always present and proud. He was, hands down, their favorite guy and they each had their own special bond with him. Steve felt very fortunate to have Hayes Glanden join the family when he married Michele in 2014. Then was blessed to meet his granddaughter, Ellie, in 2016, who brought him such joy.

Everyone will miss Steve’s amazing sense of humor, kindness, generosity, and love. In addition to Jeanine, Michele, Ashley, Hayes, and Ellie, Steve is survived by his siblings, Mike O’Donnell, Nan-

and expected the best of herself, and encouraged the people she cared about to be the best that they could be. She always took the time to let the people she cared about know how important they were. She was selfless; always putting the care, concern, and welfare of her loved ones before her own.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Ronald. She is survived by her wife and partner of 31 years, Lisa L. Tusick; her nephew, Ron, and his wife Judy of Malvern, Pennsylvania; her fur babies, Molly, Murphy, and Martin; her cat, Cooper; and many pond fish.

All services were private. Memorial donations may be made to Home of the Brave Foundation, 6632 Sharps Road, Milford, Delaware (homeofthebrave.org).

cy Janssen, Marie O’Neill (Tom), Kathy Lougheed (Earl), and Brian O’Donnell (Chris McGaha); his extended family; and so many friends.

Steve’s beautiful and wonderful life was celebrated with a Mass of Christian Burial on July 27. Memorial contributions may be made to Beebe Medical Foundation, 902 Savannah Road, Lewes, Delaware 19958 (beebehealthcare.org/ donate). ▼

Gene Cavazos

Gene Cavazos passed away July 6, 2023, at his Rehoboth Beach residence, just days after celebrating his 67th birthday (July 2). Gene was born in McAllen, Texas, to Genaro Cavazos and Grace Reyes. He attended Missouri State University and then embarked on his military career; he served in both the Army and Navy, completing his military service in Bethesda, Maryland. He then managed restaurants in Washington, DC. Gene was a talented lead singer and song writer and performed in DC clubs with his band, Talk Show.

On Memorial Day, 1991, he met his future husband, Paul Frene, at the Strand Dance Club in Rehoboth. They met most weekends in Rehoboth before both moving to Nutley, New Jersey, in 1992.

After moving, Gene joined the Manhattan rock group Temple 23 as their song writer and front man. He performed in CBGB’s, the club where Madonna got her start. Following a gig there, a groupie of the band offered Gene a temp job in her advertising agency, Bozell, in the pharmaceuticals division.

Gene quickly found his niche, drawing on his background in the military as a physician’s assistant, his

WE REMEMBER

restaurant managing experience, and his gift for entertaining and performing. In his first month, he was invited to sit in on a new business pitch. When his boss stepped out to take a call, the client asked Gene to start the presentation.

Gene improvised a sales pitch. When Gene’s boss returned to the room, the client told him that they were awarding the multimillion-dollar business to Bozell with the stipulation that Gene be account manager.

Gene received fast-track promotions and within a year had a corner office on Park Avenue and was written up in advertising magazines. After Bozell, he served as Executive Vice president for Euro RSCG. He coordinated the advertising campaigns for many of the most successful pharmaceuticals and traveled the world.

Paul and Gene spent many weekends together in Rehoboth in the 1990s before buying a condo in 1998. Gene was active in CAMP Rehoboth, over the years participating in, sponsoring, and attending CAMP Rehoboth events. Gene put his singing talents to work performing in the CAMP Rehoboth Follies with his troupe, Victoria Seacrets, winning bronze, silver, and two gold “Barbie” Awards over a five-year period. Gene and Paul were legally married in 2013.

In addition to his husband, Gene is survived by his five younger siblings: Norma, Ricky, Syboney, Yvette, and Rodney. A military funeral and a celebration of life are being planned. ▼

Sandi S. Snowberger

Sandi S. Snowberger, 70, of Lewes, passed away Thursday, July 27, 2023. She was born May 24, 1953, in Wilmington, daughter of the late Marguerite and Vernon Hastings.

Sandi spent her career as a letter carrier and retired from the US Postal Service after many dedicated years.

Sandi enjoyed sports and spent years lending her talents to many softball, basketball, field hockey, billiard, and bowling teams. She took advantage of coastal living and all it had to offer; one could often find her boating, fishing, or swimming.

Sandi liked relaxing in her pool and driving her golf cart

around Lewes, or any of the many campsites she frequented; she was always up for a good party. She was a loving and devoted wife, sister, aunt, fur mom, and friend.

Sandi is survived by her beloved wife, Tootie Springer, of Lewes; her brothers, Steve Snowberger (Karen) of Augusta, Georgia, and Vernon Hastings (Jackie) of Ocala, Florida; her sister, Dawn Windett, of Dover; her many nieces and nephews; and her adored pets, Spicey, Roman, and Abby.

A celebration of Sandi’s life was held August 17, at Irish Eyes, in Lewes. Memorial contributions may be made to any animal shelter or to a veteran’s center of choice. ▼

Send your check for $50 to CAMP Rehoboth, 37 Baltimore Ave., Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. If you prefer to use your Visa, MasterCard or American Express call 302-227-5620.

CAMP Rehoboth Volunteer Opportunities

SUNFESTIVAL

Join the festivities this Labor Day weekend and volunteer for SUNFESTIVAL 2023! Help is needed for registration, décor, set-up, breakdown, auction spotters, and more.

BLOCK PARTY

Sign up to volunteer for this great annual event! Block Party 2023 will be held on October 15 from 11 a.m.- 4 p.m.

DOGFISH DASH

Join Dogfish Head for its DASH, the off-centered road race that starts and ends at Dogfish Head‘s Milton Brewery. Proceeds benefit the Delaware Center for the Inland Bays. Help is needed with registration, parking, and event flow.

CROP: CAMP REHOBOTH OUTREACH PROGRAM

The CAMP Rehoboth Outreach Program (CROP) is constantly working to cultivate community and strengthen relationships and the connections among us all. Check the site for monthly volunteer opportunities.

CAMPSHOTS PHOTOGRAPHERS

Shoot CAMPshots for Letters! Use your camera or iPhone, or the CAMP Rehoboth office camera. More guidelines will be shared with volunteers. Sign up at camprehoboth.com/volunteers.

Your volunteer efforts benefit you and others. Please

thank you

ARTS TEAM

Logan Farro

Jane Knaus

Lois Powell

Leslie Sinclair

Patricia Stiles

Debbie Woods

CAMP DATABASE

Sondra Arkin

CAMP LIBRARY

Glenn Lash

CAMP MAINTENANCE

Carol Brice

Eric Korpon

CAMPCIERGES

Joe Benshelter

Barbara Breault

Ken Currier

Bob Grant

Jim Mease

Mike Merena

Kim Nelson

Patricia Stiles

Russell Stiles

Joe Vescio

CAMPSAFE CONDOM STUFFING PARTY

Tom Downey

Mark Eubanks

Bob Horne

Tripp Jones

Shawn McHugh

Barry Moshinski

Doug Sellers

Dave Walker

Joe Vescio

CAMPSAFE HIV TESTING AND COUNSELING

Tom Chaplin

E.J. Kenyon

Mike Merena

Sharon Morgan

Alan Spiegelman

Joe Vescio

CAMPSHOTS PHOTO VOLUNTEERS

Jason Bradley

Tony Burns

Paul Frene

David Garrett

Alonza Parker

CHORUS LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE

Bill Fuchs

Dianna Johnston

Judy Olsen

Dave Scuccimarra

Sandra Skidmore

CROP AT DELAWARE FOOD BANK

Deb Carroll

Mark Eubanks

Susan Goudy

Daphne Kaplan

Jim Mease

Steve Scheffer

Doug Sellers

Dave Walker

CROP AT THE REHOBOTH

ART LEAGUE’S COTTAGE TOUR

Robert Amer

Kathy Board

Rick Buske

Yvonne Cipressi

Bruce Clayton

Claire Ippoliti

Jackie Maddalena

Patti Magee

Shawn McHugh

Jane Rice

Leslie Sinclair

Matt Swalga

Linda Wolf

Debbie Woods

GRANTS COMMITTEE

Leslie Calman

Kate Cauley

David Garrett

John Roane

Leslie Sinclair

LETTERS

DISTRIBUTION TEAM

Todd Hacker

Glenn Lash

Jim Mease

LETTERS

MAILING TEAM

Nancy Hewish

Grant Kingswell

Vicki Martina

Stephen Palmer

Russell Stiles

Linda Yingst

MEMBERSHIP TEAM

Jane Blue

Ann Evans

VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

Jim Mease

Kim Nelson

Rina Pellegrini

Leslie Sinclair

John Michael Sophos

Debbie Woods

CAMELOT MEADOWSRehoboth. 2001 Commodore 3BR/2BA home has formal LV & family room. Big kitchen. Community pools & just 3.5 miles to beach. Call for Price (New) Lot Rent $927/mt.

VILL. OF COOL BRANCH - Seaford. Remodeled 1999 3BR/2BA home is 1,456sf. Front & rear decks. Shed. Community pool & catchn-release pond. $139,000 (2042950) Lot Rent $526/mt.

SEA AIR -Rehoboth. 2013 RV w/main BR & 2 sleep sofas (sleeps 6). Big LV. Nice kitchen. Dinette area. Full bath. Community pool & 3 miles to beach. $47,500

(2042576) Seasonal 4/15-11/15

VILL. OF COOL BRANCH - Seaford. Remodeled 1997 3BR/2BA home is 984sf. Front & rear decks. Community pool & catchn-release pond. $124,999 (2044252) Lot Rent $526/mt.

SUSSEX

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ANGOLA BEACH - Lewes. 3BR/2BA 2015 Skyline. 28’x56’. Private backyard. Community pools, marina. 10 miles to beach. $203,999

(2044926) Lot Rent $695/mt. includes water & sewer

LOCHWOOD -Lewes. New Construction. 3BR/2BA

1,767sf. Granite & stainless steel appliances. Hurry - Still time for “pick outs.” $525,000

(2044614) Theresa Cappuccino cell 609-515-5820

OAKWOOD VILLAGE -Lewes. New Construction. 4BR/2BA home is 1,877sq. ft. on a ¼-acre lot that backs up to a wooded buffer. Bamboo floors in the main living area. Cathedral ceilings in the Great Room. Kitchen has granite countertops, stainless steel appliances & tile backsplash. Dining area. Split bedroom plan. BIG mud room with storage closet & laundry room. Large 12’ x 17’ deck. 2-car garage with attic access. Community pool & 8 miles to the Lewes beach, 10 miles to the boardwalk. $489,900 (2041926)

LOCHWOOD -Lewes. New Construction. 3BR/2BA

1,634sf. Vinyl plank flooring. Gas FP. SS appliances & granite in the kit. $474,900

(2027444) Theresa Cappuccino cell 609-515-5820

SEA AIR -Rehoboth. 2019 Clayton 4BR/2BA

2,128sf doublewide! 3 miles to the beach. Community pool. $295,000 (2045590) Lot Rent $620/mt. Luz Escobar cell 302-260-2080

SUSSEX WEST - Lewes. 2002 3BR/2BA. 1,454sf home w/1-car oversize garage on corner lot. Large deck. Indoor community pool & 6 miles to beach. $170,000 (2041516) Lot Rent $937/mt.

SILVER VIEW FARMRehoboth. 1983 2BR/2BA. Gas FP. Eat-in kitchen. Split BR plan. Patio & shed. Community pool & 3 miles to beach. $69,900 (2040774) Lot Rent $646/mt.

COLONIAL EAST - Rehoboth Beach. 1978 3BR/2BA doublewide. Split BR plan. Extra parking. Shed. Community pool. Just 4 miles to the beach. $115,000 (2039994) Lot Rent $563/mt.

SEA AIR -Rehoboth. 2020 Champion 3BR/2BA doublewide home is on a corner lot. This home has exquisite finishes! $299,000 (2027444) Lot Rent $689/mt. Luz Escobar cell 302-260-2080

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