Coastal Point — January 2, 2026 by CoastalPointNewspaper

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JANUARY 2, 2026

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Fenwick, Sussex County seek TRO against State Entities call SB 159 ‘unconstitutional imposition’ By Kerin Magill Staff Reporter The Town of Fenwick Island and Sussex County are seeking a temporary restraining order against the State of Delaware and Gov. Matthew Meyer, following the passage of legislation that

South Bethany votes to cap remote appearances

overrides a Sussex County Council decision denying permission for the installation of an electric substation proposed to be connected to offshore wind turbines. The legal complaint filed Dec. 22 in the state Court of Chancery, calls Senate Bill 159 — passed on a 21-15 vote June 30 — an “unconstitutional imposition” by the State. State Sen. Gerald Hocker, a Republican who represents the coastal Senate

District 20, voted against the bill. The bill essentially overrides the County’s denial of permission for an electrical substation on property at the former Indian River Power Plant, which was to be connected to wind turbines to be built by U.S. Wind. The council’s denial followed the Sussex County Planning & Zoning Commission’s recommendation that it be approved. Meanwhile, U.S. Wind has filed a lawsuit against the Sussex County

Council for its denial of the crucial connection piece for the wind-farm project. M. Jane Brady of the law firm Halloran, Farkas & Kittila of Wilmington and Stephani Ballard, whose practice is located in Montchanin, are representing the Town Fenwick Island and Sussex County in this latest legal action. Ballard said this week that the two are representing the plaintiffs free of See TRO page 3

Birds of a feather

By Susan Canfora Staff Reporter By a 4-3 vote and after considerable discussion, the South Bethany Town Council approved, on first reading, an ordinance prohibiting town council and committee members from participating in meetings remotely more than three times each year, and requiring them to give at least 24 hours’ notice to the mayor and town manager if they won’t be attending in person. Councilman Bob Biciocchi and Councilwoman Chris Keefe — both who were participating remotely that day — voted in favor of the ordinance, as did Councilwoman Cindy Van Horn and Mayor Edie Dondero. Opposed were Councilmen Randy Bartholomew, Mark Giler and Bob Shields. Dondero said the council can discuss

Special to the Coastal Point • Maryfrances Berger

A gaggle of snow geese gather for... well, you see... what does a gaggle of snow geese gather for, anyway? See MEETINGS page 3

IRSD staff survey shows love of teaching, struggling students By Laura Walter Staff Reporter In the first of several opinion surveys, Indian River School District employees were asked to share their honest and anonymous thoughts and suggestions with the IRSD Board of Education. On a scale of 1 to 5, staff could rate topics regarding their jobs, instruction, leadership, school climate and more. Generally speaking, staff recorded that they often appreciated their work

and colleagues, but their concerns included declining morale, inconsistent discipline, overwhelming workloads and even some systemic concerns and distrust. “If you look at those bar graphs … we’re passing in all areas, but we have room for improvement,” said Kim Taylor, board vice president. Overall, the average score for each question landed in the “3” range. (These are districtwide averages, so some schools may have different patterns or

concerns than the majority.) About 651 staff members completed the anonymous survey in September, including teachers, custodians, cafeteria workers and secretaries. Later this year, the board plans to send surveys to administrators, families and the general community. “We did this survey because we think we need to look at ourselves,” said Mark Steele, board president. “See what people think, make changes and make things better … so we can alleviate these

concerns and build better relationships with our stakeholders.” Overall, the staff ’s top two priorities for improvement regarded school culture and student conduct, and staff morale/engagement — and in third place, improvement to student academic achievement. From there, administrators created an initial list of actions for the IRSD school board to consider, based on this first survey. See SURVEY page 6

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January 2, 2026

TidalHealth focused on fair partnerships to sustain quality care As the region’s leading not-for-profit health system, TidalHealth’s goal has always been to provide high-quality, accessible and affordable care for the communities we serve across Delmarva. Our mission guides every decision we make — including our ongoing discussions with insurance partners. Healthcare costs have risen dramatically in recent years. The costs of salaries, supplies and medications have all increased by more than 10 percent, yet reimbursement for many of our services has not kept pace. In fact, publicly available data clearly shows that TidalHealth Nanticoke has been marginalized by payors, receiving significantly lower rates than other hospitals for the same services. These figures demonstrate what our clinicians see every day — that TidalHealth hospitals are reimbursed significantly below

regional averages for the same high-quality services. This disparity directly impacts our ability to sustain programs, recruit skilled nurses and physicians and invest in the next generation of care. Our goal is simple: to ensure fair, marketaligned reimbursement that reflects the true cost of delivering care and supports continued investment in local healthcare. Aligning rates more closely with regional and state benchmarks will help protect access to essential services — from emergency care and advanced surgery to preventive programs such as our school wellness centers, which provide physical and mental health support for teens. TidalHealth is also seeking contract improvements that reduce administrative burdens and streamline claims and payments for both patients and

practitioners. These changes would allow our clinicians to spend more time where it matters most — caring for patients — rather than navigating unnecessary red tape. We remain committed to transparency throughout this process and to maintain strong partnerships with payors who share our vision for healthier communities. Ultimately, these discussions are about one thing: ensuring that families across the Shore continue to have access to the exceptional care they deserve, close to home. To learn more about how we’re protecting access to quality care, visit tidalhealth.org/ yourcarematters. Sincerely,

Penny Short, MSM, BSN, RN President, TidalHealth Nanticoke

January 2, 2026

Meetings Continued from page 1 the ordinance again at a future meeting. During discussion at the Dec. 12 meeting, Giler read Delaware Code guidelines that state elected officials who attend meetings remotely are considered fully participating and said that, if that is good enough for the Delaware Code, it should be good enough for the South Bethany Town Council. “I could read it again, but I know I’m not convincing you,” he told Dondero. He then re-read a part of the Delaware Code that states members who participate electronically are “present for all purposes, including for quorum.” Dondero countered that the state code sets only minimum standards, meaning that municipalities can set stricter standards, beyond those in the state code. Biciocchi asked Dondero if she was trying to hold council to a higher standard, and she said yes, she was. She said having a quorum present for a vote is important, and electronic attendance should not be the default method. Some other municipalities don’t even allow

TRO Continued from page 1 charge. “We are in the process of conferring with the other parties and are awaiting direction from the Court regarding the next immediate procedural steps,” she said. According to the complaint, the State stepping in to override the County’s decision, “issued with proper authority,” will negate the County Council’s zoning decision. “The County’s zoning authority will be compromised and indeed, precluded, preventing the County from exercising its lawful authority and acting in the interests of those citizens whom the members of the County Council were elected to serve.” The Town of Fenwick Island “will be similarly affected,” the complaint claims, and will also “suffer environmental and economic harm,” if the U.S. Wind Maryland project moves forward the filing asserts. The actions by the state legislature, they claim, “violated the constitutional doctrine of separation of powers.” The complaint also claims the state’s passage of Senate Bill 159 “constitutes sleeper legislation in violation of Article II, Section 16 of the Delaware Constitution.” In addition, the complaint asserts, the legislation “infringes on lawful home rule, local authority over zoning, and constitutes unauthorized spot zoning for the benefit of one company. “What has become blatantly clear is that the state legislators determined to impose their own judgment regarding a

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council or committee members to have remote attendance, she said. She said that, for some committees, it’s difficult to participate electronically because members might be reviewing maps or documents in the council chamber, and those participating remotely wouldn’t be able to see them. “What message does it send to the community if there is one person sitting at this table and then five participating by Zoom? … There are some folks who might not ever be able to participate, but I feel strongly there should be a quorum of committee members in the room … and I have not heard a reason as to why that is not a good practice,” the mayor said. Biciocchi said her example of being able to look at maps and documents “is a good one.” He said an in-person quorum is “the best representation.” But Shields noted that Zoom calls and meetings increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Bartholomew agreed and said it is unreasonable to expect five people to be in town for all meetings. Dondero said that if a chairman or chairwoman can’t attend, a meeting would be canceled.

“I tend to believe ‘the more the merrier’ in person,” Keefe said, adding that she felt hypocritical “weighing in on this from a Zoom” but agreed with Dondero that if someone agrees to be on a committee, he or she should plan to attend its meetings in person. Shields said input from Biciocchi and Keefe was “the proof in the pudding,” because both were speaking remotely that day. Giler said it’s better to have a meeting than to cancel it until everyone is present.

local zoning matter over which they had no authority at the time,” the suit asserts. Fenwick Island Mayor Natalie Magdeburger — long an outspoken opponent of wind turbine construction off Delaware’s coast — noted this week that the Town has been “a leader among the Delaware coastal communities in opposing the Maryland Offshore Wind Project, warning our neighbors for years about the environmental, economic and national security inherent in placing wind farms off our coast. “We will continue to oppose the wind farms,” Magdeburger said. “However, our opposition to SB 159 is even broader than opposing the wind farm project.” The bill, she said, “is being challenged because it dispenses with home rule and retroactively targets a specific zoning decision that was legally and lawfully determined by local authorities. SB 159 (which was also known as SB 199 after some revisions) is being challenged because it dispenses with home rule and retroactively targets a specific zoning decision that was legally and lawfully determined by local authorities. “This is wrong on so many levels. We believe local rulings should be respected and defended, as they have for generations, and allowing this dangerous precedent to go unchallenged would be to acquiesce to government by fiat,” Magdeburger said. “Local folks should be permitted to make decisions that involve local property usages, without people who don’t live here and we don’t have the ability to elect saying we cannot. This is a concept that forms the very foundation of the value of local government and local

control,” she said. The complaint asks the court to rule on whether the state law overriding the county zoning decision can stand and requests a temporary restraining order in the meantime.

York Beach flooding remains a concern for residents Gerald Injaian, a resident of South Bethany since 1999 and member of the Town’s Resiliency Committee, told the council he has seen big changes in flooding in York Beach. When he first moved to town, he said, flooding was rare, occurring every three or four years. Then, it was more and more frequent, lasted longer and was more severe, he said. The engineering firm AECOM has

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Meetings Continued from page 3 completed a study and researched the number of flooding days. He said that 25 years ago it was low, in the single digits, but last year it, the number of days with flooding was in the mid- to upper 30s. “That affects many of the streets in York Beach, many of the residents. If you think about it, call it five weeks. That’s a lot of time to have flooding in your neighborhood. Five weeks to have water — saltwater — in your back yard … not really sure if you’re going to get out today. It’s more than a nuisance, and it really affects your quality of life,” he said. He said that, as a member of the Resiliency Committee, he is often asked for updates about what is going to be done to address flooding, but they are difficult and complicated questions he can’t answer. “The answers are going to be tough, and they are going to take some time,” he said. He said that, at a recent cocktail party, “Everybody talked about the flooding, because I’m the guy. … So people were talking all night — 15 of us sitting around a little fire, 15 of us talking about flooding issues in York Beach pretty much all night. … That is the No. 1 concern in our neighborhoods. “There are so many things the town worries about. I understand that. But in our little section of town, the No. 1 concern is the flooding issue. Please continue to develop strategies for flood mitigation. … We really need your help,” he asked the council.

Council OKs RFP Dondero reviewed for the council that, earlier this year, the Resiliency Committee had been planning to submit a request for a Building Resilient & Infrastructure Communities (BRIC) grant from FEMA to fund Phase II of the York Road flood mitigation project. Phase II involves looking at secondary streets that branch off York Road where there is significant, frequent flooding. The BRIC program was eliminated by the Trump Administration, so town officials have been searching for other grant opportunities. (Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings was among officials from 21 states who sued to reverse the termination of BRIC funding

Correction In an article in the Dec. 26 edition of the Coastal Point about the conclusion of the Millville Volunteer Fire Company's capital campaign, fire company financial officer Marc Bogner's name was misspelled. We regret the error, and fully blame our editor for daydreaming about Santa instead of focusing on his job.

Coastal Point and to have it restored. On Dec. 12 — the same day as the South Bethany meeting — a federal judge ruled in favor of the states, citing FEMA’s termination and diversion of the Congressionally-approved funding unlawful and ordering it restored.) While the federal funding was eliminated, South Bethany officials had also applied for a DNREC grant, but the Town’s project was not selected for the state grant. “So, we have run out of grant sources,” Dondero said on Dec. 12. She said the Resiliency Committee had asked for the council’s authorization to issue a request for proposal (RFP) to engineering firms, inviting them to submit scopes of work for proposed flood mitigation strategies for those streets. She said town officials want to keep the RFP general and get ideas on strategies from the engineering firms. Work could include raising roads, raising bulkheads and other possible solutions.

Biciocchi said the Town had started with the York Road project and ended up just raising the road. He said he wants to see the scope of the RFP in writing before voting on it, and whether it will pertain to flooding overall, or raising the road and driving above the water. He said the council should study the language in the RFP “so we understand what we are pursuing.” Shields expressed concern about the process, saying it will be more than two years “before we can do anything.” He said that, in the past two years, nothing has been achieved in terms of flood mitigation there. He suggested putting out an RFP as a design-andbuild project. “Put out an RFP with an optional award that could be awarded with the RFP, and cut out the middle process. If they come back with a solution, you go to that contractor to accelerate the process,” he suggested. But Dondero said that would com-

5 mit the council to funding 100 percent of the project. Shields said it wouldn’t, because the optional award could be awarded at the end, “if you like it.” “You study it, with a request for an optional award. They give you a proposal. You approve it initially, then you move along. At the end of the period, you award or renegotiate it,” Shields said. “Council needs to review what it is we’re sending out and what are the points, and be a little more specific,” Bartholomew said. “This is only mitigating flooding on the streets, because that is the responsibility of the Town,” Dondero said, adding that it’s important not to be too specific in the RFP, “because we feel like we are limiting ourselves.” She suggested keeping the RFP broad because there might be engineering ideas the Town doesn’t know about. See MEETINGS page 6

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Survey Continued from page 1 “In order to make necessary change, people have to feel like you want to listen and understand,” Taylor had previously said. “If they see change, and they see that action is behind the words, we’re hoping it will not only build morale, it’ll build trust and promote positive change.”

At least 3 of 5 stars In November, board members received a detailed packet of results, sorted by school, including more than 4,000 written comments. In December, they released executive summaries to the public, showing the districtwide

Meetings Continued from page 5 Dondero said other options had been considered for York Road itself, but they were eliminated for various reasons, “And it came down to the road-raising, which was the best idea at this time to mitigate the impacts of the flooding, because it’s always going to flood.” Shields said the tide scale also has to be considered. He asked why engineers are given a year to complete studies, instead of six to eight months. Dondero said the council is asking engineers to complete fieldwork and studies, attend

January 2, 2026

score averages, an AI-generated summary of the written comments for each question, and initial proposals for the board and administration to begin addressing staff concerns. The highest score average was 4.12, regarding “I have pride in my school.” According to the summary of comments, “Across the district, staff show deep pride in their students, strong relationships with colleagues and a genuine commitment to serving their communities. Many emphasize that they love teaching, love their students and feel a strong sense of mission — especially in schools serving highneeds populations, multilingual learners and students with disabilities. … However, that strong personal pride is increasingly overshadowed by major systemic concerns,” which has eroded

school and district pride in some buildings, according to the summary. The higher-rated topics included: high expectations for students; communication with students and families; effective school leadership; and safe school environments. The lowest score average was 3.04 (“The district’s leadership is effective”). According to the summary, “A small number of responses highlight positive individual leaders or pockets of improvement, but these are eclipsed by widespread concerns about disconnect, transparency, decision-making and lack of support” from district leadership. Staff burnout and frustration was another major topic. “While a few staff feel well-re-

sourced or supported, most report that they are doing the work of multiple people and relying on personal time and [their own] money to keep up … and are seeking realistic support to meet student needs,” the results stated. On that front, administrators offered steps for potential improvement, including making teachers aware of state standards and curriculum goals — but with perhaps less pressure to replicate precise lessons, so they can feel the creativity of teaching again. Staff supports could include mentoring by veteran teachers, reducing administrative workload where possible, providing clear communication, protecting planning time and improving

council meetings that are held only once a month, make revisions, then attend more council meetings. “It stretches out,” she said. “We moved that project along as quickly as we could. … I don’t know that we can force an outside contractor.” Shields said if contactors were given six to eight months, they would “do a bang-up job in six to eight months.” Giler said he is willing to have the council meet more frequently, if necessary. “No. Not happening,” Dondero said. “I would be willing to do it. A lot of people are very interested in this topic,”

Giler said. But Dondero said the Town has a Resiliency Committee. “We all have a clear purpose so let’s let them do what we asked them to do,” she said. “We can work up an RFP and have it come back to council at the January meeting if you want to see it before it goes out.” Keefe said taxpayers’ money is going to be used, so the process has to be completed carefully. “The best thing we can do, if we want to get things moving, is to trust that our town manager knows how to write an RFP. ... The thing we do today is to say,

‘Get an RFP out there,’” she said.

See SURVEY page 7

Police department praised Dondero on Dec. 12 also commended the South Bethany Police Department, especially Officer Chase Morris, who she called “the most junior officer,” for making a “recent difficult arrest.” She said state Rep. Ron Gray had also commended Morris for his performance. Dondero said she had congratulated the officer and will also send him a letter of commendation.

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January 2, 2026

Survey

this for us to see we this is about: It’s not about fingerWhen I hear stories about have to do better as pointing. It’s not about putting down. It’s about being mature adults and mov… as a a board teachers being hit and staff, as teachers … ing forward in a mature fashion to make a difference.” but, by golly, we kicked and bit — and Later that night, during her monthly also have to be betthat’s a constant theme ter as parents,” said comments to the board, a staff union representative echoed the need for “the “When I through the survey — I Steele. spirit of unity [and] shared purpose.” hear stories about The ultimate goal is supportive soluteachers being hit think we’ve got to ask tions, fully staffed schools and safe enviand kicked and bit ronments to help graduate well-rounded — and that’s a conparents to work with their stant theme students. “With those goals in mind, we ask children and make them through the survey that whenever a staff member, a board — I think we’ve know right from wrong be- got to ask parents member, a community member shares opinions or facts about our district, they work with their fore coming to school and tochildren do so with the spirit of unity in their and make heart,” said Blair Catlin Brown, presithem know right acting in such a way.’ dent of Indian River Education Associfrom wrong before (IREA), which represents coming to school — Mark Steele and acting in such ation teachers, paraprofessionals, secretaries

Student behavior and discipline data has been taking center stage lately because classrooms can’t function well with frequent disruptions. If a student acts out, there needs to be a balance between holding them accountable for their actions — and, ideally, understanding the root cause and helping them overcome it. Staff referenced an uneven approach to discipline, perhaps feeling that administrators don’t equally apply the consequences for actions. The administration responded that “staff need to feel supported by the administration,” and that everyone should feel comfortable in following through with consequences with “fair but firm, consistent, immediate when possible, and unemotional discipline.” Regarding student behavior, the administration suggested (re)launching schoolwide positive behavior support programs, which teach expected behaviors and celebrate positive outcomes, from classrooms to school buses. Also, staff could receive training

to deescalate student misbehavior. Finally, the “Student Support Suites” would be reemphasized as a temporary placement — not as a discipline consequence — where students can meet their behavioral goals and return to the classroom with learning supports in place. But this survey also alluded to the personal struggles of today’s youth. Although staff generally said they feel safe from outside threats (thanks to secure building entrances and trained personnel), “The overwhelming theme across responses is concern about internal safety threats from student behaviors.” Additionally, the document made a goal to “Train all staff on how to deal with homicidal and suicidal threats, creating consistent procedures and protocols throughout the district.” “Sometimes it takes something like

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a way. Some students can’t help it. I understand that. But a lot can. So, this is going to be an effort, we hope, moving forward, between every group … to make this school district a lot better.”

Summary of staff feedback is public “We can determine that much good is being good in Indian River School District,” Taylor said. “As mature people, we have room for improvement every day in our own lives. And that’s what

and custodians. “A spirit of unity allows us to move beyond surface differences. We may disagree on how best to achieve our shared goals, but we must remain united in our commitment to educating the children of our community.” The survey results are posted online at https://go.boarddocs.com/de/irsd/Board .nsf/Public (Click “Meetings,” click “Agenda,” click “Dec. 15, 2025,” click “View the Agenda,” scroll to “6.08 IRSD Staff Survey,” and click the PDF document.)

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Teen tells students, ‘Being bilingual is a superpower’ By Laura Walter Staff Reporter

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Students at John M. Clayton Elementary School heard from the people at Lord’s Landscaping concerning the benefits of being biingual.

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On Friday, Dec. 19, Lord’s Landscaping owner Amy Hughes, manager Amber Ellis and three crew members — Aniceto Escalante, Ademan De Leon and David Escalante — celebrated burgeoning bilingual students at John M. Clayton Elementary School. Meeting with English languagelearner students in kindergarten and first grade, the crew from Lord’s Landscaping gave school supplies and Christmas treats — as well as an inspirational message that resonated in the JMC halls. David Escalante — a junior at Sussex Technical High School who works at Lord’s Landscaping on the weekends and throughout the summer — spread the message that being bilingual is a superpower. He explained that working hard, listening to teachers, paying attention in class and always doing one’s best are the most important things that people can do to achieve their goals. “Believe in yourself, because you can achieve great things,” Escalante told the students. He is planning to go to college and study to be a dentist. His father, Aniceto Escalante, and See STUDENTS page 9

January 2, 2026

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Tam to speak at Millville meeting By Kerin Magill Staff Reporter Dr. David Tam, president and chief executive officer of Beebe Healthcare, will offer updates on the South Coastal Emergency Department & Cancer Center at the Jan. 13 meeting of the Millville Town Council. Tam, who took the reins at the Beebe healthcare system nearly six years ago, oversaw the completion of the South Coastal facility, which opened in 2020 in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The emergency department opened in May of 2020, with 14 patient rooms and state-of-the-art equipment for treating and diagnosing patients. At the time, South Coastal campus Medical Director Nicholas Perchiniak predicted the new facility would see between

15,000 and 19,00 patients each year. In Beebe’s 2024 fiscal year, which ended June 30, 2025, the facility saw nearly 19,000 visits, according to Beebe spokesman Ryan Marshall. The adjacent cancer center opened in July of Dr. Tam 2020. (Figures indicating how many patients have been treated at the cancer center were not available at Coastal Point press time this week.) Both facilities were lauded when they opened, as a much-needed addition to an area of Sussex County undergoing tremendous growth. Emergency med-

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Students Continued from page 8 colleague De Leon have been working at Lord’s for more than 23 years and are known as the heart of its landscaping and maintenance team. “Many of our multilingual learner students speak Spanish at John M. Clayton Elementary School, so hearing this message from someone who speaks the same language and that has traveled a similar journey means so much more to our students,” said Khara Bauer, the multilingual-learner coordinator at JMC. The school is extremely grateful for the support the local community offers to its programs, students and families, JMC staff members said. “While the donated supplies are very much appreciated and needed, the connections made with our community and the role models for our students are even more meaningful and appreciated,” stated the educators. They thanked Hughes and the Lord’s Landscaping team for supporting JMC students. “It’s moments like these that remind us how powerful a caring community can be.”

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January 2, 2026

Beebe offering three wellness programs Beebe Healthcare is sharing a number of health education opportunities for members of the community to learn and take an active role in improving their health and wellness early in the new year. Upcoming events and educational programs include: • What’s Your Risk? Know Your Numbers! “Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Knowing your numbers is the first step toward reducing risk factors and living a longer and healthier life. Together we will discuss and compare normal and abnormal results. You will have an opportunity to learn your numbers, nurses from Beebe will offer blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol screenings at this preventive health event.” Additionally, they will be available to discuss screening results and the steps that can be taken to improve

numbers as needed. This event is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Selbyville Public Library, located at 11 W. McCabe Street in Selbyville. There is no cost to participate, and registration is not required. • National Diabetes Prevention Program This year-long educational program provides guidance and support for those diagnosed with pre-diabetes, previously diagnosed with gestational diabetes or identified as high risk for diabetes. Individuals must also be 18 or older and have a body mass index of 25 or higher (23 or higher for the Asian American population), and have not been previously diagnosed with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes or end-stage renal disease. The program aims to teach people how to eat healthier, add physical activity to their daily routines, how to manage stress and how to stay moti-

vated to improve their health. Participants meet weekly for four months and will then transition to a maintenance plan for the duration of the program. Meetings will take place at the Selbyville Public Library, located at 11 W. McCabe Street in Selbyville, on Mondays from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., with the first meeting date set for Jan. 26, 2026. To confirm eligibility and to register, call Community Outreach at (302) 645-3210 or email Outreach @beebehealthcare.org. • Workshop: Healthy Living with Chronic Conditions This six-week program is designed to help adults who are living with a chronic health issue, or who want to prevent the development of chronic conditions. Attendees will be encouraged to share their experiences and challenges and help one another solve problems as they work together to improve their health and live happy and

fulfilling lives, despite their medical issues. Key topics for discussion will include techniques for managing frustration, fatigue, pain and isolation, the benefits of exercise and ways to maintain and improve strength, flexibility, endurance, medication management, effective communication, and decision-making and problem-solving. Classes are open to adults of all ages and abilities. The program is being offered by Beebe Healthcare in partnership with the Delaware Division of Public Health. Meetings will take place on Wednesdays from noon to 2:30 p.m. at the Ocean View CHEER Center, located at 30637 Cedar Road in Ocean View. The first meeting is scheduled for Feb. 4, 2026. There is no cost to participate, but registration is required and can be completed by calling (302) 645-3210, or by visiting www.healthydelaware.org.

Tam

ambulance trips to Beebe’s Lewes emergency department. “Dr. Tam will be discussing the Beebe Healthcare strategic growth in Sussex County and the South Coastal area, and the success of the South Coastal campus since it opened in

2020,” Marshall said. During Tam’s visit, he will also be seeking input and feedback from residents regarding community needs, services and priorities they would like to see addressed at the South Coastal campus. Also at the Tuesday, Jan. 13, meeting,

there will be a public hearing on a review of the town charter, with recommendations and a possible vote on potential charter amendments by the Millville Town Council. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. at Millville Town Hall, 36404 Club House Road.

Continued from page 9 ical personnel at area fire companies welcomed the ER facility, in particular, saying it dramatically cut the need for

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Coastal Point

January 2, 2026

Friends, fellow LEOs mourn passing of Snook By Susan Canfora Staff Reporter When he learned of his friend’s death and heard details about Delaware State Trooper Cpl. Matthew “Ty” Snook being shot to death, from behind and at close range, while on duty at the Department of Motor Vehicles in Wilmington the day before Christmas Eve, Randall Simons was in “complete and utter shock.” “It was a very, very painful thing to find out. My initial reaction was, ‘This isn’t real.’ In our community, Ty Snook was somebody different. He was invincible. If Ty had had a chance to face this guy, man to man, this never would have happened. You could never fight him and be alive. He was a very tough person. He wrestled his whole life. He was a tough person but a friendly guy. He could protect anybody as much as they needed to be protected. It’s a shock to the entire community. Everybody knew who he was,” said Simons, who recently moved to Florida and who has organized a GoFundMe page for Snook’s survivors. By early this week, $141,594 had been raised, close to the goal of $160,000. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation also announced it will pay off the

Cpl. Matthew ‘Ty’ Snook mortgage on the family home for Snook’s wife, Lauren, and toddler daughter, Letty. Simons said Letty is a happy child who recently celebrated her first birthday, and his wife is deeply griefstricken. “She wakes up in a loop every day and doesn’t understand. It is going to be hard to process,” he said, calling Snook — a resident of Hockessin and a 10year veteran of the state police force — fearless, and not only a wrestler but a jiu-jitsu enthusiast. See SNOOK page 12

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Coastal Point

January 2, 2026

Intermittent lane closures to begin on Route 54, starting Jan. 5 Motorists should expect delays on Route 54 (Lighthouse Road) between Van Buren Avenue and Dukes Avenue starting Monday, Jan. 5, 2026. Lane closures can be expected until April 30, 2026. The closures are for work that is the

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Snook

was a wrestler in college. He knew a lot of people in Delaware. Until I moved to Florida, we hung out at least once a week. Four or five of us called each other best friends. He was happy-golucky. He was a wonderful guy, maybe 5 feet, 11 inches tall, a very huge wrestler build, a big body, muscular from head to toe,” he said, adding that Snook had also served in the military and had a keen understanding of the risks of being a police officer. Snook is also survived by his mother, Karen, father, Matt, brother, Josh, and sister, Kassi, and is being remembered by fellow officers, including Ocean View Police Chief Kenneth McLaughlin, who called Snook’s death “a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers faced by law-enforcement officers every day in service to their communities.” “Police work carries inherent risks that are often unseen and sometimes only fully recognized after a tragedy occurs,” McLaughlin said. “Our officers willingly accept those risks to protect others, and they do so with professionalism, courage and a deep sense of duty.

It is vital that our communities support their police departments at all times — not only in moments of loss, but every day. “During this holiday season, I ask the public to keep Trooper Snook’s loved ones, the Delaware State Police family and all first-responders — law enforcement, corrections, dispatchers, firefighters and EMS personnel — in your prayers as they continue to serve, often at great personal sacrifice,” McLaughlin said. Bethany Beach Police Chief Patrick Foley said the tightknit Delaware lawenforcement community is “heartbroken by the line-of-duty death of Cpl. Snook.” “His commitment to the badge, which he proudly wore, reflected courage, selflessness and a commitment to protecting others even at the cost of his own life. Cpl. Snook’s sacrifice is an important reminder of the risks law-enforcement officers face every day in serving the public,” he said, adding that Bethany police “honor his legacy and extend our

deepest condolences to his wife, daughter, loved ones and fellow troopers during this painful time.” Foley said Bethany police officers planned to join other law enforcement officers at a vigil in Georgetown on the evening of Dec. 28. Snook’s funeral is planned for Monday, Jan. 5, at the University of Delaware Bob Carpenter Center in Newark. Final honors will be presented outside the center. Simons said Snook’s father is a retired police officer and his brother, too, is an officer. “He grew up looking up to his dad,” he said of Snook, adding that he hadn’t yet thought about life without Snook. Friends, he said, had been planning to celebrate news that another friend and his wife are expecting a baby. “We were going to have an event,” Simons said. “We were all going to have him down to Florida to celebrate. He passed away. Just before that, the night before that, we had a group chat and we were talking about the trip, and then it very abruptly happened.”

Continued from page 11 “You always have to be vigilant, but nobody would guess anybody would do anything like this,” Simons said. Police said Rahman Rose of Wilmington allegedly shot Snook, who then pushed a DMV worker out of harm’s way and told others to run before he was shot again. Rose allowed customers to leave the building, but he stayed inside, then shot at officers who were arriving in response to the incident. A New Castle County officer, aiming through a window from outside, shot the 44-year-old Rose, who later died at a hospital. Police haven’t released a possible motive for the shooting. Simon said of Snook, “He was everybody’s friend.” He said they met about 15 years ago at a fitness center, and Simons quickly came to know Snook as “everybody’s friend,” a man well-known in the area. “He touched lives in Delaware, wrestling at St. Mark’s High School. He

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Editorial Columns Letters to the Editor

Editorial

Page 13

ViewPoint

Let’s all remember fallen hero, Snook On Tuesday, Dec. 23, as many people were finishing up what they had to take care of before spending the holidays with their loved ones, an armed assailant took the life of a human being who was himself looking forward to seeing his wife and 1-year-old child. Cpl. Matthew T. “Ty” Snook, a 10-year veteran of the Delaware State Police, was working an overtime shift at the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) near New Castle. According to reports, a 44-year-old man shot Snook, who then pushed a DMV worker away from the gunfire. “His last actions were that of a hero,” Delaware State Police Col William Crotty said during a press conference, as reported by delawareonline.com. “A hero who saved lives today while sacrificing his own. “Hero” gets tossed around a lot. We use it to describe athletes or other role models we look up to for myriad reasons. At its base

meaning, a hero is someone who will risk of themselves for the betterment of their community — however that may look. And however you identify the word yourself, it’s hard to find a scenario where Snook’s selfless actions merit anything less than heroic status. Nobody here at the paper ever had the pleasure of encountering Cpl. Snook, as he obviously worked on the opposite end of the state. But we have had the opportunity to speak to some who knew him, and their stories only make us admire him more. His funeral will take place at the University of Delaware’s Bob Carpenter Center in Newark on Monday, Jan. 5. Public visitation will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., while interment will be closed to the public, according to Delaware State Police. It’s a long way to travel, but we ask that all of us take a moment on Jan. 5 to remember Snook, his family, and the men and women who risk of themselves every single day for the rest of us.

Taking a windy walk back through 2025 Hopefully, you have already replaced that 2025 Coastal Point calendar with the 2026 version, and you currently find yourself looking at that year ahead of you with nothing but enthusiasm and optimism for your journey ahead. Or, you’re still dealing with the aftermath of the holidays and just want a dark, quiet place to lay your head. Either way, just sit back and relax for a minute and enjoy this walk back on Memory Lane as we revisit the year 2025 in our community. As always, there was some good, some bad and some oh-yeah-that-was-weird in the year that was. January usually arrives with a splash — or, make that two splashes, as revelers jumped into the ocean on New Year’s day in both Fenwick Island and Bethany Beach. Doug Hudson was elected president of the Sussex County Council, and a major snowfall hit the area, shutting down schools and driving parents Darin J. McCann crazy in the process. Melissa Hekl purchased Good Earth Market, and the Indian River School District floated the idea of a referendum to help with expenses. On a personal note, my resolution to drop weight fell with a thud as I tore through a breakfast bagel and hash browns for breakfast and decided immediately that 2026 is a better year to lose weight because, well... leave me alone. February is the shortest of months, but there was plenty going on in our area, highlighted by the Ocean View Church of Christ’s amazing Night to Shine event and the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce’s Fire & Ice. The school district announced they were definitely going to hold that referendum, and former Bethany Beach Police Chief Mike Redmon and former Bethany Beach Police Department Capt. Darin Cathell both plead guilty to pay theft. The Joshua M. Freeman First Responders’ Award ceremony celebrated the very best of our local police, firefighters, EMTs and other first-responders once again, spotlighting those who make our community a better place. Personally, I had a really good feeling about the Orioles in the upcoming season and put $10 down on them winning the World Series. March typically sees us begin to unthaw from the winter, and this year we armed up by celebrating a state championship by the Indian River High School Unified basketball team. Mike Meoli

announced he would be opening his 26th McDonald’s restaurant, this one next to the parking lot at Hocker’s in Clarksville. A longtime employee at Giant in Millville, Brett Danver, passed away, leaving many in the community heartsick over his loss. The Indian River School District referendum? It lost. But officials immediately turned their eyes to another one, coming up in June. I celebrated March Madness by seeing my bracket implode by about halftime of the first game. At least those Orioles were about to lift my spirit! April showers bring Easter egg hunts, and our community held a ton of them. Salted Vines Vineyard & Winery also hosted the first Lower Slower Delaware Festival, and Patti Grimes, executive director of the Joshua M. Freeman Foundation, told Sussex County officials that she expected 150,000 visitors to the performing arts stage in the coming season. Fenwick officials discussed parking, again, and the South Bethany Town Council reluctantly voted for the Town’s first tax hike in 16 years. The Orioles didn’t exactly come out of the gate on fire, but it’s a long season. No worries. May carries with it the promise of growth and new beginnings, and Sussex County officials started looking at the possibility of impact fees. St. Ann Parish celebrated the Rev. John Klevence’s 40th year in his vocation, and J. Conn Scott announced they would be closing their doors after 101 years in business. Redmon and Cathell both lost their certifications to serve as police officers, and spontaneous combustion from mulch was believed to be the cause of a residential fire at the Beach Club. The Coastal Point was named News Organization of the Year by the MarylandDelaware-D.C. Press Association for the third time in four years. The Orioles were starting to make me doubt myself a little, but it’s a long season. I feel as if I’ve said those words before. June saw Japanesque celebrate 40 years of serving shoppers in Bethany Beach, and the Town of Selbyville celebrated another Old Timers’Day with the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce. Ocean View’s Hailey Mack was named Miss Delaware, and Ocean View’s Gallery One celebrated 20 years of featuring amazing local

Point of No Return

See REVIEW page 14

Coastal Point encourages the exchange of ideas. Letters to the editor must be signed by the author with phone number included for purposes of verification.

The staff SUSAN LYONS susan.lyons@coastalpoint.com

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M. PATRICIA TITUS patricia.titus@coastalpoint.com

TARYN KING taryn.king@coastalpoint.com

SHAUN M. LAMBERT shaun.lambert@coastalpoint.com

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JILLIAN STOHR jillian.stohr@coastalpoint.com

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The Coastal Point is published weekly at 111 Atlantic Ave., Ocean View, DE 19970. The mailing address is: P.O. Box 1324, Ocean View, DE 19970. Phone: 302.539.1788. Fax: 302.539.3777. Deadline for advertising and news submissions is 5 p.m. Monday. All advertisements created by the Coastal Point are property of Coastal Point LLC, and can not be replicated without permission. www.coastalpoint.com

Coastal Point

Review Continued from page 13 artists.That second referendum from the Indian River School District? Also rejected. And, oh, a “weak tornado”was confirmed to have landed in Roxana, which raised the question: Is there such a thing as a “weak tornado” if it comes anywhere close to you? On a personal level, I put on a swimsuit, stood in front of a full-length mirror and instantly realized I looked like Patrick Star after a three-day allyou-can-eat bender with Spongebob Squarepants. So, I had that going for me. July is associated with fireworks, and we certainly had our share here this year. We also saw Selbyville ban short-term rentals, and longtime Sussex County Economic Director Bill Pfaff move into retirement. Bob McKee became the mayor of Millsboro, and the Hockers stepped out into a new venture with the opening of Hocker’s Family Restaurant & Crabhouse. The State started a ban on polystyrene, which is used

to make Styrofoam, and that impacted my ability to enjoy one of life’s small pleasures — eating chicken wings out of a Styrofoam container. I already did the Patrick Star joke. Stop judging. August saw some of the best young softball players in the world descend on Roxana for the Senior League Softball World Series, as well as the opening of the first leg of the North Millsboro Bypass. Recreational marijuana sales began in the few spots allowed, and the State came in and purchased the original keeper’s house at the Fenwick Island Lighthouse. After 27 years in the Millsboro Police department, Chief Brian Calloway stepped away to become an educator at Sussex Technical High School, and St. Matthews By the Sea celebrated 65 years of service to the community. I got another year older and instantly began forgetting why I had walked into various rooms in my house. September saw our students get back in the classroom, and those at Indian River

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and Sussex Central high schools were greeted with weapon-detection systems. The Ocean View Town Council began receiving some blowback from protestors and the ACLU on their proposed ordinance regarding public assemblies, and a state bill was passed to allow Sussex County to initiate those school impact fees on new developments. A fatal explosion in a house near Dagsboro, sadly, claimed one life. A ton of heroes and their families were greeted warmly during Warrior Beach Week with Operation SEAs the Day, and the two former Bethany Beach officers were sentenced — Redmon got 11 months in prison and fines, and Cathell received two months and fines. It dawned on me that the Orioles weren’t having a particularly successful season, as evidenced by the fact that by the quarter mark of the season I had thrown away two Orioles hats and promised to never watch them again. October brings out all the ghosts and goblins, and it thankfully brought another

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edition of Cops & Goblins, after a little minor sweating over funding. Veronica Faust stepped down as the town solicitor in Ocean View, and former Fenwick Island Mayor Peg Baunchalk passed away. I know I’m not supposed to have “favorites” in my job, but Baunchalk was one of my favorites. Millville annexed 9 acres off Club House Road, and a storm did serious damage to the dunes and beach-access points in Bethany Beach again. On a personal level, I got to go trick-or-treating with my daughter again, and we’re at the age now when I’m just thankful when she wants to keep doing stuff with me. November is a time of thanks, and many in our community were grateful when a fire at B&E Tire & Auto resulted in no one being injured, or worse. The Selbyville Historical Society took over the Townsend home, which appears to be a very good thing, and Rich Collins announced he would not be filing to defend his 41st Representative District seat — a position he has held since 2014. The Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce held their annual awards evening, honoring a remarkable slate of individuals and businesses in the community, and — speaking of local businesses — Sandy Pony Donuts had their products featured on the Apple TV show “Pluribus.” I ate a lot. Watched a little football. Ate a lot more. December is a time for the holidays, and holiday events, and the Town of Bethany Beach was thrilled to have the access points to the beach repaired before all of the holiday events in Bethany began. The ACLU filed a suit against the Town of Fenwick Island, over the Town allowing artificial entities to vote, and David Moyer was formally named the new chief of the Millsboro Police Department, after serving that position in an interim role for several months. An alleged drunk driver ran over some headstones in Clarksville’s St. George’s Cemetery, and Beebe broke ground on its new emergency department in Millsboro. There’s a little more, but it’s literally in this week’s paper. Have fun. Go find the news yourself!

Coastal Point

January 2, 2026

Guest Column

     

One story of the 12 days of Christmas By Jerry Hardiman Special to the Coastal Point The holiday season isn’t over yet. We still have the English tradition celebrating the 12 days of Christmas, which runs from Christmas day to the Epiphany on Jan. 6 — the day they say the three wisemen finally made it to Bethlehem. (This was before GPS and MapQuest, although they did have that bright guiding star.) We hear the story of the 12 days in that well-known carol every year. It’s a love song of a woman who receives a special gift on each of the 12 days from her “true love.” I never understood the meaning and romance of the gifts, except for the five gold rings on the fifth day. Then I found a story about what might actually have happened, in John Julius Norwich’s 2017-edited collection of stories in “An English Christmas.” This is a different account of the 12 Days of Christmas” in the letters from Emily to Edward. Day 1. My dearest darling. A partridge in that lovely little pear tree! What an enchanting, romantic, poetic

present! Bless you and thank you. Your deeply loving Emily. Day 2 (two turtle doves). I am so touched and grateful. With undying love, as always, Emily. Day 3 (three French hens). My darling Edward … It’s a pity we have no chicken coops. Thank you anyway, they’re lovely. Your loving Emily. Day 4 (four calling birds). What a surprise. They are very sweet, even if they call very loudly and make telephoning impossible. Anyway, I’m very grateful — of course, I am. Love from Emily. Day 5 (five gold rings). Dearest Edward. A really lovely present — lovelier in a way then the birds, which do rather take a lot of looking after. But I love the rings. Bless you. Love, Emily. Day 6 (six geese laying eggs). Dear Edward. I rather hoped you had stopped sending me birds. We have no room for them, and they’ve already ruined the croquet lawn. I know you mean well, but let’s call a halt, shall we? Love, Emily. Day 7 (seven swans). Edward. The whole house and yard seem to be full of birds — to say nothing about what

they leave behind. Please, please stop. Your Emily. Day 8 (eight milkmaids and their cows). Edward. I think I prefer the birds. … Is this some kind of joke? If so, I’m afraid I don’t find it very amusing. Emily. Day 9 (nine dancing ladies). Look here, Edward, this has gone far enough. All I can say is that judging from the way they dance, they’re certainly not ladies. The village just isn’t accustomed to seeing things like this. If you value our friendship, which I do less and less, kindly stop this ridiculous behavior at once. Emily. Day 10 (10 leaping lords). As I write this letter, 10 disgusting old men are prancing about all over what used to be a garden. Meanwhile, the neighbors are trying to have us evicted. I shall never speak to you again. Emily. Day 11 (11 pipers). This is the last straw. You know I detest bagpipes. The place has now become something between a menagerie and a madhouse and a man from the Council has declared it unfit for habitation. At least

                   

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   

        

See HARDIMAN page 16

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Coastal Point

January 2, 2026

Letters Reader: Stop reducing speed limits Editor: Enough with the continuing reduction in speed limits around here! Every time we turn around, we find speed limits being reduced (many times without notifying the public). The voices of a few “concerned” citizens are overpowering the voices of the many who have had enough. Most people would agree that slower vehicular traffic re-

Hardiman Continued from page 15 Mummy has been spared this latest outrage; they took her away yesterday in an ambulance. I hope you’re satisfied. Day 12 (12 drummers). Sir: Our client, Ms. Emily Wilbraham instructs me to inform you that with the arrival

duces the likelihood of serious injury, but there are other viewpoints to consider. We have all seen pedestrians and cyclists disregard the laws pertaining to them. E-bikes speeding down the shoulders at a speed exceeding the cars on the road. Pedestrians jaywalking, not wearing reflective clothes at night, walking on the wrong side of the road, etc. Cyclists disregarding the rules of the road, not wearing safety gear, etc. If safety is the main concern when it

comes to the law, then the penalties for disobeying these laws need to be equally enforced. The burden for safe travel should not be borne solely by licensed drivers. Assuming that penalties for disobeying the rules of the road are in place to dissuade such behavior, then the penalties for cyclists and pedestrians should be just as severe and should be enforced with equal fervor. Such steps would help deter the unsafe behavior on the part of these participants. If we want to encourage safe behavior

by those who utilize the roads, then everyone needs to be held to the same standards. Continuing the reduction of speed limits can only be taken so far. We are already having difficulty traversing in and around our neighborhood in any reasonable amount of time. It’s time to hold all participants responsible for their part before any additional speed limit reductions are implemented. Dave Moeller Millville

this morning of the entire percussion section of the Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, we will seek an injunction to prevent your importuning her any further. I am also making arrangements for the return of assorted livestock. G. Creep, Solicitor-at-Law. From love to lawsuit. You can see how that could happen. Now this is just the story of one couple. There may

be other, more romantic experiences. I still like the “true love” theme in the carol, but I may never hear the words the same way again after this. As we come to the end of this holiday season, Rosemary and I wish everyone a healthy and wonder-filled 2026. (Editor’s note: Some theorize that each of the 12 gifts is, in fact, a gift of birds.

The five gold rings may refer to ringnecked pheasants, for example. So, we expect Emily’s solicitor may have gotten involved even earlier, perhaps when the 10 leaping lords arrived in the form of grey herons and started feasting on the fish in Emily’s ornamental pond. But then each of the birds may also have themselves been intended for feasting. That’s a lot of feathers to pluck!)

Pronchick presents research during biology symposium Jessica Pronchick of Selbyville presented research during the McDaniel College Biology department’s fall research symposium, titled “Antennae, Tentacles, and Beyond,” on Wednesday,

Dec. 3, held at McDaniel College, 2 College Hill, Westminster, Md. Pronchick is a sophomore biology major. Pronchick presented “Identifying Novel Antibiotics from Polyandrocarpa

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Coastal Point

January 2, 2026

‘Music is magic’

Special to the Coastal Point • Submitted

For Bethany Beach’s Ray Jozwiak, the process of building a song is the joy behind it.

Jozwiak f inds music to be a personal journey By Susan Canfora Staff Reporter In the vein of Shakespeare, who wrote, “The man that hath no music in himself, nor is not moved with concord of sweet sounds, is fit for treasons, stratagems and spoils,” Bethany Beach’s Ray Jozwiak also believes those who don’t have music in their lives are “missing a wonderful dimension.” “Music is magic,” said the 68-yearold, who learned how to play the accordion as a boy. “I am trying to get the people who listen to my music in the direction that the music moves them. Very subjective, very personal,” he said. In early December, Jozwiak released “Ray’s Music,” containing instrumental songs “exclusively, with lots of in-depth improvisation, primarily featuring the piano — my weapon of choice — but in contrast to many of my earlier solo piano albums. All of the instruments you’ll hear are reproduced and self-performed digitally, with my acoustic babygrand Kawai piano blended into the mix,” he said. No physical CD or album was produced, but eight original compositions

can be heard at https://open.spotify.com/album/37PLX We0C3uqeBlUJzBSKv, https://rayjozwiak.com, https://www.youtube.com/user/RayJoz wiak, https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCddYvAMASspamahkMS5XKu w or https://soundcloud.com/rayjozwiak. “I play piano, but I delve into virtual instruments using computer programs, so the music is a complete band, but it’s all me. … Think of karaoke, where you have music and vocals, but you take the vocals out and anybody can sing along to it. That is the basis, except this is not canned music prepared by a computer. “I have a keyboard I plug into the computer, and I find a bass, an acoustic bass, which means it was recorded and stored electronically — each note. So when I play notes on my keyboard, you can hear a bass playing those notes. Then I record bass. Then I can pull up a drum set, a piano, guitars, horns, saxophones, trumpets, trombones. I have a whole orchestra at my disposal. I enjoy what I do, and I’m proud of what I do,” he said. The music has jazz influences, as well as rock-and-roll and classical music elements. “When you play music as long as I have, things come out from your entire life,” he said, recalling starting accordion

lessons as a boy, after a man in his East Baltimore neighborhood started offering them. “He was selling accordion lessons, and he got a bunch of takers. I wanted to do it. My father played accordion. I have been playing with bands at weddings, at clubs, for a long time. I was with a rock band until ’23. Then we disbanded, so I’m not playing in public now. When you create your own music, Bethany is not the place to perform the music live in front of people, because they want to hear things they can sing along to. They want to hear what they know the words to,” he said. He has been concentrating on his music — mostly instrumental, sometimes writing songs with lyrics, “about whatever occurs to me along the way — but this new release, this is all instrumental. It doesn’t have a theme. Instrumental evokes emotions. It’s very subjective. In hindsight, music was first and foremost in my heart. When you create something from your imagination, from your heart, whatever skill you have you want to share it with people. When they hear it and they like it, it’s very rewarding,” he said. Jozwiak — retired from a career in transportation for ocean shipping lines, handling marketing, customer service, exporting and importing — and his wife, Pam, have three sons. They have

lived in Bethany Beach since 2018. He doesn’t have a favorite artist or song, he said, quoting Billy Joel, who said choosing a favorite song is like a parent being asked to name a favorite child, but he said he listens to a variety of music. “We always have music in the house. If I listen to a particular artist, they might inspire something in me. With a lot of pop music, you hear a song and you want to write a song like that. Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, so you try to make something that sounds like it, but you aren’t copying it,” he said. He said he has been impressed by Sun Ra, a Birmingham, Ala., musician who died in 1993. Ra was a band leader composer and pianist who claimed he was born on Saturn. “He had these influences, ancient Egyptian things. His band members wore skullcaps and had sparkles all over their costumes. He had his own unique way. He played free jazz, avantgarde jazz. … I had some influence from him. He was really great, but he had his schtick. People who play music like this — they don’t make money like Mariah Carey or Celine Dion, but they make a living because they love what they do,” he said. “There is a market for everything, and that is true when it comes to music. You can always touch somebody.”

Coastal Point

January 2, 2026

Obituaries Roy David Barger, 70 Roy David Barger, 70, of Millsboro, Del., passed away peacefully, at home, on Dec. 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born in La Plata, Md., on June 3, 1955, he was the son of the late James Barger Jr., and Parry Welch. Though born in Maryland, he grew up and was raised in Pennsylvania. Following his graduation from high school, he went on to attend and graduate from Pennsylvania State University. He dedicated his career to refrigeration and facilities maintenance. He was a plant manager at Kellogg’s for 26 years, a maintenance manager at Perdue Farms for 16 years and then at Allen Harim for another 10 years. He was known for his strong work ethic, technical skills and reliability throughout his professional life. In his free time, Barger enjoyed fishing, woodworking and spending time outdoors. He loved his weekly Sunday breakfast with his sister, Janet. He also found great delight in driving down to Massey’s Landing and enjoying the tranquility of just watching the water. Above all else, he cherished time spent with his family — especially his grandchildren Johnny Wilkerson Jr., Tayetum Ruhl, Jaxson Wilkerson, Jadyn Ruhl and Jason Ruhl Jr., who brought him immense joy and pride. Barger is survived by his beloved wife of 45 years, Kay Virginia Barger of Millsboro, Del.; his daughters, Heather Wilkerson (and John) and Dawn Ruhl (and Jason), all of Millsboro; and his siblings Janet Byers, also of Millsboro, Joan Alexander (and Mark) of Keystone Heights, Fla., and Randy Barger (and Grace) of Marshall, Va. Services are to be held at a later date.

school food service, and enjoyed caring for and working with children. She remained active, keeping in touch with family, friends, former classmates and coworkers, and attending church, and especially loved cooking and decorating for Christmas, including her treasured train and village display. Bryan is survived by her sons, Charles Campbell-King and his husband, Steve, and Chris King and his wife, Kathy; her grandchildren, Amanda (and Mike) and Kyle; several nieces and nephews; her close friend Sylvester Bunting; and many friends. The family extended sincere thanks to the teams at Beebe Healthcare’s South Coastal Cancer

Center in Millville and Meadowcrest at Middletown Assisted Living for their care and kindness. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 2, 2026, in the chapel of Short Funeral Services, 609 E. Market Street, Georgetown, Del., where a time of visitation will begin at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at Union Cemetery in Georgetown. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Concord Church, 25332 Church Rd., Seaford, DE 19973; Asbury Church, 26146 Asbury Rd., Seaford, DE 19973; St. John’s UM Church, 22910 Park Avenue, Georgetown, DE 19947; or St. Johns Church, 22179 Gravel Hill Road, Georgetown, DE 19947.

Claire Jo Hakun, 93 Claire Jo Hakun, 93, passed away peacefully, after a long illness, on Dec. 17, 2025, at her home in The Hamlet at Dirickson Pond near Frankford, Del. Born on Oct. 10, 1932, in south Philadelphia, Pa., she was the daughter of the late Frank Rocco and Catherine (Perri) Rocco. She brought to the world a loving spirit, wonderful sense of humor, and a boundless energy and passion for life. Her school years began at Francis Scott Key Elementary School, Thomas Junior High School and South Philadelphia High School. Her school years were marked by acSee OBITS page 38

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Patricia ‘Patsy’ Bryan, 82 Patricia “Patsy” (Elliot) (King) Bryan, 82, of Georgetown and Seaford, Del., passed away on Saturday, Dec. 26, 2025. Born Dec. 6, 1943, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Hilda Elliott and the youngest of seven children, with all of her siblings having preceded her in death. Known affectionately by her self-given nickname, “Trouble,” Bryan was well known for her humor, candor and strong personality. Bryan had formerly been married to the late Wayne King and later to the late Norris Bryan. She served for many years as secretary of the American Legion Unit 8 Auxiliary in Georgetown, was formerly employed at Rust Jewelry Store, operated a daycare, worked in

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Coastal Point

January 2, 2026

Real EDvice Does a preapproved letter really matter when making an offer? A pre-approval assists you in being confident with your home search. It not only helps you understand affordability in your budget but helps you learn which loan programs — conventional, FHA, VA, USDA or others — best fit your goals and how your credit impacts McCoy each option. For a preapproval, the lender fully reviews your income, debts and credit score, which directly affects the interest rate you qualify for.This is very different from a pre-qualification, which is an estimate based on self-reported information. Pre-approvals carry real weight, while pre-qualifications don’t guarantee borrowing power and are therefore riskier to the seller when accepting an offer. Once you have the preapproval, examine what you are comfortable spending. Review the total cost of ownership for the homes in which you are interested.That includes adding in insurance, taxes and any HOA or condo fees. One of my clients spent months touring homes but never found anything that met their needs. After speaking with a lender, they realized they were under-looking — they could afford more than they assumed. We expanded their search, and within two weeks they were under contract on their dream home. Pre-approval gives you the full picture of affordability — and the confidence to find the right home within a budget that meets your needs.

The short answer is yes! When a seller is reviewing your offer, they are not just looking at the price you’ve offered. They are considering the terms and contingencies. No seller wants to go under contract only to find out later that the Schifano buyer is not qualified for the financing. They would lose time on the market for other potential buyers and lose momentum with showings. A pre-approval provides peace of mind to the seller — it shows them you are credit-worthy and qualified for the loan terms you are offering. A pre-approval letter also shows that you’ve taken preliminary steps toward purchasing and indicates how serious of a buyer you are. It is also beneficial to you as the buyer to have these conversations beforehand with regards to interest rate and loan programs available. You may find that you can make your offer more attractive than you originally thought. There are times when it’s imperative to move very quickly on submitting an offer, so if you are looking at properties to buy, it’s best to have a letter prepared in advance so it’s ready to submit when you are!

When you find a property that you love and you decide to make an offer on it, having your preapproval letter — or, if you are paying cash, having your proof of funds — will make your offer more appealing to the seller. Hook Typically, we will not see a seller accept or even counter an offer until they see and know the buyer’s ability to purchase the property. A seller does not want to go under contract only to find out down the road that the buyer has financing issues or that they really do not have the funds. So, present your offer with the pre-approval or proof of funds, and the seller should take your offer seriously. And, honestly, to dive deeper, the actual lender has influence too. The lender has a lot to complete to get the loan to close. So, choose wisely, as all lenders are not the same. Local knowledge is powerful, and being here to solve the many issues that can arise through the lending process is important both to the buyer and to the seller. And as real estate agents, we love to see offers with strong area lenders that will help get the property to final settlement!

Sarah Schifano Long & Foster (302) 858-3945 Sarah@seasideseven.com

Kim Hook RE/MAX Coastal (302) 462-5504 Kim@KimHook.com

Christine McCoy The Real McCoy Group of Coldwell Banker (302) 339-5368 Christine.McCoy@CBMove.com

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January 2, 2026

Coastal Point

January 2, 2026

Calendar will be a bonfire after the dive, and folks can get a cup of hot chocolate and grab a commemorative T-shirt to remember the day.

Jan. 1-Jan. 2 Tiny Art Show Registration — The South Coastal Library has partnered with the Town of Bethany Beach to expand the 4th Annual Tiny Art Show, offering a theme, more prizes and greater fame! In recognition of the Town of Bethany Beach’s upcoming 125th anniversary, all artwork will portray special Bethany Beach moments — past, present and future! Registered participants age 6- Adult will receive a free art kit and entry form. Completed artwork and entry form must be returned to the library before 3 p.m. on Sat. Jan. 3, 2026, where it will be displayed by age group and judged by local professional artists. Prizes will be awarded in each age division at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026! All prize-winning artworks will be included in the 2026 Bethany Beach Town Calendar and also displayed online so the public can vote for a Grand Prize Winner, which will appear on the cover of the calendar, and the artist will receive a $400 voucher for a new bicycle! Details and registration are available at www.southcoastal.lib.de.us, as well as in person at the library or by calling 302-858-5518.

January 4 Olde Christmas — The historic Prince George’s Chapel Museum in Dagsboro is hosting an Olde Christmas Celebration at 2 p.m. This is sponsored by The Friends of Prince George’s Chapel. There will be music from Dave Morgan, Jack Andrews and Ashley Veasey. Light refreshments will follow the concert. Admission is free. All donations will benefit the upkeep of this historic museum. For more information, call Vickie at (302) 732-3824 or Jo Ann at (302) 858-2720.

January 5 Hooks and Needles — Join Frankford Public Library on Mondays at 1 p.m. for a fun afternoon of knitting and crocheting. All levels are welcome. Call 302-732-9351 or visit us online at frankford.lib.de.us. Find us on FB @FrankfordPublicLibrary and Instagram @frankfordlibrary. Chix with Stix — Join Mary Beth Leonard at South Coastal Library at 10 a.m. for our monthly meeting about crocheting, knitting and needleworking. All skill levels welcome. Make new friends, get inspired by what others are making and learn needlework tips and tricks in this fun group meet-

January 1 Fenwick Freeze — The 21st Annual Fenwick Freeze will take place on the Bayard Street Beach. Registration is from 9 to 10 a.m., and the dive is at 10:30 a.m. There

ing. We encourage you to bring your current project with you. Have leftover yarn? Bring it and swap with others. Free, for ages 18-plus. Registration is appreciated and available at southcoastal.lib.de.us or by calling 302-858-5518. Walk-ins accepted if space allows. Hosted by the South Coastal Library, 43 Kent Avenue, Bethany Beach, DE 19930 Intermediate Jewelry-Making Class — Join artisan Ria at South Coastal Library at 2 p.m. for a fun, intermediate level jewelry-making class at the library. We will be making a pendant necklace with matching earrings in this two-hour session. This project is more difficult than our standard beginner's level jewelry-making classes and some experience with jewelry-making is highly suggested. Free, for ages 18-plus Registration is required and begins at 2 p.m. on Dec. 29 at southcoastal.lib.de.us or by calling 302-858-5518.(Online registration recommended.) Hosted by the South Coastal Library, Bethany Beach, DE

January 6 Dine & Donate Event — Join Coastal Concerts and support local arts at a Dine & Donate at Big Fish in Rehoboth Beach from noon to 9 p.m. Big Fish will donate 15 percent of your tab to help artists. No coupon is required. Cozy Story Time — Snuggle with your little ones age 5 and under during a cozy story time of sweet stories, songs and simple

fun at South Coastal Library at 10:30 a.m. To keep this a calm, comfortable experience, space is intentionaly limited to approximately 20 children, so registration is required and available at https://southcoastal.lib.de.us or by calling 302-8585518. Parents/caregivers must accompany children, but please only register children. Hosted by the South Coastal Library, 43 Kent Avenue, Bethany Beach, DE 19930 Vinyasa Yoga — Join Sarah Schaber, RYT500 certified yoga instructor, at South Coastal Library at 4:30 p.m. for a free, one-hour Vinyasa Yoga class. This class is moderately-paced with more challenging poses than the Gentle Flow Yoga classes we offer. Create energy, build strength, and promote flexibility and circulation throughout the body. Deep relaxation and stress release also included. Please bring a yoga mat and foam blocks. Registration is available at https://southcoastal.lib.de.us or by calling 302-858-5518. (Online registration recommended!) Walk-ins accepted if space allows. Hosted by the South Coastal Library, 43 Kent Avenue, Bethany Beach, DE 19930

January 7 Mahjong Open Play — Frankford Public Library’s Mahjong group plays Wednesdays at 1 p.m. for casual play. Registration is not required, but prior playing experience

See CALENDAR page 35

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Continuing Events Clubs/Organizations Marines Meet — The First State Detachment of the Marine Corps League meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Dagsboro American Legion Post 24. Any Marines and Navy Corpsmen who have served in the Corps, and living in Sussex County, are welcome to join to meet their fellow veterans and consider joining the organization. Their mission is community service through camaraderie and volunteerism. For more information, call (571) 332-8263. Community Club — The Selbyville Community Club is welcoming new members, and meets on the second Thursday of each month at Salem Methodist Church at 1 p.m., with a social hour from noon to 1 p.m. For more information, visit selbyvillecommunityclub.org or email selbyvillewomensclub@gmail.com. In the Genes — Sponsored by the Lewes Historical Society and the Sussex County Genealogical Society, the Genealogist in Residence program is on the first Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Reading Room at the Lewes History Museum. Members of the Society will be available to help anyone who has questions about their family tree. The Lewes Historical Society Archives Family Files will be available for research. For more information, visit them at scgsdelaware.org or historiclewes.org. VIP Meets — VIP is a social group for visually-impaired persons, and meets the first

and third Wednesday of each month at the Masterson center at St. Ann Church from 1 to 3 p.m. New members are welcome. For more information, call/text/leave a message at (240) 315-4361. Women’s Civic Club — The Women’s Civic Club of Bethany Beach meets on the second Thursday of the month at Cripple Creek Country Club at 10 a.m. The organization has expanded throughout Sussex County, and has been serving the community since its founding in 1925. The Club is a nonprofit organization, formed in friendship and dedicated to civic and charitable purposes and the education of its members. For more information, or if you are interested in attending, send an email to patishelen@msn.com. Lord Baltimore Lions Club — The Lord Baltimore Lions Club meets the first and third Wednesday of each month at Big Fish Grill. This is a service organization that performs projects in the Sussex county area. For more information, visit them on Facebook, at Lordbaltimorelionsclub.org or by phone at (301) 543-0329. Rotary Meets — Southern Sussex Rotary meets weekly at Doyle’s Restaurant in Selbyville every Thursday at 8 a.m. For more information, call Brendan Crotty at (302) 858-3234 or visit SouthernSussexRotary.org. Lord Baltimore Women’s Club — Organized in 1934, Lord Baltimore Women’s Club (LBWC) is celebrating its 90th anniversary of service to Sussex County. LBWC is a non-

profit organization which meets the third Monday of every month (September through June) at 11 a.m. at Cripple Creek Golf & Country Club near Dagsboro. Dedicated to helping the local community, LBWC raises funds for education projects in local schools, scholarships for high school students, veteran’s programs and other charitable organizations. It also provides social opportunities to foster friendship, camaraderie and individual enrichment among its members. To learn more about LBWC, visit Lbwclub.com. Bonsai Club — The South Coastal Bonsai Club meets the first Wednesday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon at Inland Bays Garden Center. Writers Guild — The Rehoboth Beach Writers Guild sponsors a weekly two-hour FreeWrite session in the conference room at the Millville Town Hall from 9 to 11 a.m. Participants, 18 and older, of all skill levels can practice creative writing in a friendly and nurturing atmosphere. Attendance is free. For more information, email Lynn Massey at bookmom42@yahoo.com. Legion Auxiliary — The American Legion Auxiliary Unit 24 meets the first Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. If you are a member or interested in joining, please attend. Meetings are held at the American Legion Post 24 in Dagsboro. Women’s Club of Indian River — The Women’s Club of Indian River (WCIR) is a non-profit dedicated to serving the communities in and around the Indian River. WCIR

raises funds and volunteers to support local charities, education projects, veterans, women’s empowerment and the environment. It also provides an opportunity for individual enrichment and camaraderie amongst its members. To learn more, contact Lynn at lthomp018@gmail.com. Saltwater Fly Anglers of Delaware — Fly fishermen and women of all ages and skill levels are invited to attend the club’s meetings on the second Wednesday of the month (February through December) at the Rolling Meadows Clubhouse in Lewes at 7 p.m. For more information, and directions, visit sfaod.com. Irish Men Meet — If you are Irish by birth or descent, consider joining The Ancient Order of the Hibernians. They are welcoming new members, and meet on the second Thursday of each month at St. Edmonds Hall in Rehoboth Beach at 6 p.m. For more information, visit aoh.com, call or text (516) 770-1822 or email pcurran43@aol.com. Polish American Club — The Polish American Club of Delmarva meets the second Wednesday of each month at Columbus Hall (behind St. Luke’s Church) in Ocean City, Md., from 2 to 4 p.m. For more information, email rwc21tbk@gmail.com. Leathernecks Meet — The Delmarva Leathernecks, a tax-exempt foundation, meets the first Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at the Residence Inn at 300 Seabay Lane in Ocean City, Md. You don’t have to

See EVENTS page 26

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Events Continued from page 25 be a veteran to join — just a patriot interested in supporting their mission of service to veterans and worthy charities on the easterns shore of Maryland, Delaware and Virginia.

Drop-Ins We the People — "We the People" is an effort put together by Bill Murphy to celebrate patriotism and celebrate the flag, by meeting at the Bethany Beach bandstand every Wednesday at 8:30 a.m. to support the military, law enforcement and firefighters who serve and protect. All are welcome. Adult Time — Adults can stop in the South Coastal Library anytime they’re open to work on jigsaw puzzles, play checkers or color. This is free, and all materials are provided. Book Donations — South Coastal Library only accepts book donations from 2 to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays. There is a list on their website, southcoastal.lib.de.us, of what they

do or don’t accept. Teleservice Navigators — The Georgetown Public Library hosts Teleservice Navigators every Monday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Get help with virtual resources, such as telehealth appointments, appointments with lawyers and social service appointments using the new Telehealth Kiosk. A Navigator will be at the library to help set up virtual appointments. For more information, call (302) 856-7958, email georgetown.library@lib.de.us or visit the library at 123 W Pine St., Georgetown. La Esperanza in the Library/Biblioteca — The Georgetown Public Library hosts La Esperanza in the Library/Biblioteca every Wednesday from 3:30 to 6 p.m. Déjenos ayudarle a: completar sus papeles, interpretar sus cartas, inscribirse en la escuela, renovar sus documentos, crear una vida major, y mucho más. La Esperanza: (302)854-9262. Paws for People Reading Time — The Georgetown Public Library hosts Paws for People on the first and third Thursdays of every month from 4 to 5 p.m. Read aloud to

a furry, friendly therapy companion to help inspire a love of reading. Offered by Paws for People. Readers of all ages and stages are welcome. Elementary Homeschoolers Program — The Georgetown Public Library hosts its Homeschool Program on the third Tuesday of every month at 1 p.m. Every month, they offer a different activity for elementaryschool-aged children. Socrates Café — Socrates Café is a group of individuals from different backgrounds that discuss philosophical ideas. Meetings are the first Tuesday of each month, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Bethany Beach Christian Church. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call Bonnie at 537-9440, or send an email to bonniejd.rae@gmail.com. Flip Five — American Legion Auxiliary Unit 24 in Dagsboro is hosting Flip Five games on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. Participants must arrive at 6 p.m. to be eligible for winner-take-all prize. The public is invited to attend. You must be 18-plus to attend or play. Post 24 kitchen also serves from 4-7 p.m. Proceeds benefit 501(c) charities, with an emphasis on veteran programs and com-

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January 2, 2026 munity. Wing Night — American Legion Post 24 in Dagsboro is hosting Wing Night every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. Members, guests and the general public are all invited. Seafood Night — American Legion Post 24 in Dagsboro is hosting Seafood Night every Friday from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Karaoke follows from 7 to 11 p.m. Members, guests and the general public are all invited. Dinner Night — American Legion Post 24 in Dagsboro is hosting dinner every Saturday from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. DJ/Karaoke will perform from 7 to 11 p.m. Members, guests and the general public are all invited. Community Luncheon — The Mariners Bethel’s Hope Center is hosting lunch every Tuesday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. They serve a choice of homemade soups, fresh sandwiches and homemade desserts. Carry-out is also available. Thrift Shop Open — The Bethel Thrift Shop will be open on Wednesdays and Saturdays, weather permitting, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. They have a large selection of gifts, holiday items, clothing, household wares, toys, books, jewelry and more to benefit the church’s projects. Donations of items are accepted each day they are open. The Thrift Shop is located at 111 Hazzard Street in Dagsboro. For more information, call (302) 519-2984. Cash Bingo — Ocean City Elks Lodge 2645 is hosting Cash Bingo every Wednesday, and it is open to the public. Doors open at 5 p.m. and the Bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. Food is available from the kitchen before Bingo starts and at intermission. For more information, call (443) 605-5028. Roller Skating at Salem — Salem Church in Selbyville will host roller-skating on the second and fourth Fridays of the month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. There is a $1 registration fee. Rental skates come in child and adult sizes. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase. They follow the Indian River School District in case of inclement weather. For more information, visit them at www.sumc.com. Table Meals — Salem Church in Selbyville will host free meals every Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. There will be a different meal offered every week, and dine-in or carry-out is available. All meals are served with drinks, salads and desserts. The first Wednesday of the month will feature pork tenderloin, with mac & cheese and green beans. The second Wednesday will feature chicken and dumplings, green beans, mashed potatoes and gravy. The third Wednesday will feature lasagna, alfredo with chicken and broccoli, bread and Italian wedding soup. The fourth Wednesday will feature chicken leg quarter with baked beans and cole slaw. The fifth Wednesday will be chef’s choice. Grief Share — Mariners Bethel Global Methodist Church offers a free Grief Share support group every Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m. at the church. There will be valuable guidance and tips on dealing with the loss of a loved one. For more information, call 5399510.

Politics

Dems Meet — The 41st Democrat RD meets the third Thursday of every month at Pizza King Restaurant in Millsboro at 6 p.m. This is open to any Democrats. For more information, call Tom Brett at (443) 257-2061.

Each office is independently owned & operated

See EVENTS page 28

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Continued from page 26 Shore Dems — The Shore Democrats meets at the Den at Bear Trap Dunes clubhouse from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the third Wednesday of the month. This is a social organization that educates, informs and creates camaraderie among their members through monthly lunch meetings that feature engaging speakers. For more information, visit shoredemocrats.com. Republicans Meet — The 38th District Republican Club meets the first Monday of the month. Social hours begin at 6 p.m., and the meeting starts promptly at 6:30 p.m. Information on the club and meetings can be found at 38thdrcp.com, or through email at info@38thdrcp.com. Democrats Meet — The 38th Representative District Democratic Committee meets the first Wednesday of every month at 5 p.m. For more information, updates on speakers and meeting locations, visit deldems38.org or emailing them at Deldems38@gmail.com. Sussex Republicans Meet — The Sussex County Republican Committee meets the second Monday of every month at the Millsboro fire hall. Meetings start promptly at 6:30 p.m. and all are welcome. Information on monthly guest speakers, legislative updates and meeting updates can be found at sussex.gop Democrats Meet — The 4th Representative District Democratic Committee meets the third Tuesday of every month. Social hours begin at 5 p.m., and the meeting starts at 6 p.m. The business meeting is open to all

registered Democrats. For more information, visit rd4deldems.org. Republican Women Meet — The Sussex County Republican Women’s Club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month on the second floor of Nicola’s Pizza in Lewes. Check-in begins at 4:45 p.m. for dinner, and the meeting starts at 5:30 p.m. The cost is $40. RSVP by the 15th of each month to info@scrwc.net. The organization educates, informs and creates fellowship with like-minded people. For more information, visit scrwc.net or email them at info@scrwc.net.

Fitness/Health/Dance Tuning Up the Temple — Mariners Bethel GMC hosts “Tuning Up the Temple” exercise/fitness classes on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, from 8:30 to 9:45 a.m. at The Hope Center. The classes are session-based, not drop-in, so contact Carol Lynch at (302) 745-8237 or cklynch03@gmail.com for more details on these classes. Yoga Classes — Mariners Bethel GMC hosts yoga classes at 5 p.m. on Wednesdays in the Armor Room, upstairs in the church building, with Heather Murphy. Yoga is also offered on Saturday at 9:30 a.m. with Micole Linehan. The drop-in fee for yoga is $7. Classes are open to the community and all are welcome. Zumba Class — Mariners Bethel Church is holding a zumba exercise class in the Hope Center gym every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10 a.m. There is a $8 drop-in fee. No registration is necessary, and all are welcome. For more information, send an email to zumbabyjo@gmail.com.

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January 2, 2026 Multiple Myeloma Support — The Delaware Multiple Myeloma Support Group meets the third Saturday of every month via Zoom from 1 to 3 p.m. For more information, contact Sue Iwahashi at myelomaemailsue@gmail.com. Line Dancing — Cape Henlopen Senior Center is hosting line-dancing classes on Mondays. Beginners classes take place at 10 a.m., and Improvers are at 11 a.m. For more information, call (302) 227-2055. Al-Anon — Al-Anon is a support group for the families and friends of alcoholics. Meetings are held every Tuesday, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., at Ocean View Presbyterian Church. For more information, visit ovpc.org. Argentine Tango — The Lewes Senior Activity Center is hosting Argentine Tango Dancing on Tuesdays, from 7 to 9 p.m. Adults of all ages are welcome, and no experience or partner is required. There is a $5 fee, but the first visit is free. Enter through the back door of the facility. For more information, visit the group online at TangoByTheBeach.com. Georgetown Walkers — The Georgetown Public Library host GPL Walkers every Monday at 9 a.m. The walking club goes to Sandhill Fields for a 30- to 40-minute walk, weather permitting. The trail begins at the Murray’s Lane Parking lot, 109-199 Murrays Lane. For more information, call (302) 8567958, email georgetown.library@lib.de.us or visit the library at 123 W Pine St., Georgetown. Tai-Chi Classes — Bethel Methodist Church is hosting free Tai-Chi classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 to 11 a.m. This is open to the public, and all are welcome. Organizers decribed the classes as “easy,” and casual attire is suggested. For more information, call (302) 519-2984. Stroke Support — A stroke support group meets at PAM Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Georgetown on the second Tuesday of every month at 2 p.m. The class will consist of linking into the Jefferson Health Stroke support Group and also have in-person support. Reservations are recommended, but walk-ins are welcome. For more information, call (302) 440-4866. Alzheimer’s Caregivers Meeting — A meeting for Alzheimer’s caregivers is held the first and third Thursdays of every month at the Ocean View CHEER Center at 1 p.m. The meetings last for up to two hours. Pickleball — The Hope Center at Mariners Bethel is hosting pickleball every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Al-Anon Family Groups — Al-Anon is a support group for family and friends of alcoholics. The group says you never have to be alone again. Al-Anon Family Groups meet at Ocean View Presbyterian Church every Tuesday from 7 to 8 p.m. Yoga Sessions — St. Martha’s Episcopal Church is hosting Yoga on Mondays at 9:30 a.m. Billiards at IR Senior Center — The Indian River Senior Center hosts a billiards 8-Ball League on Mondays and Tuesdays at 8:30 a.m., and its billiards Scots Doubles League on Thursdays at 9 a.m. for senior center members. Tai-Chi at IR Senior Center — The Indian River Senior Center hosts Tai Chi at 10 a.m. on Mondays for senior center members. Senior Strength & Balance at IRSC — The Indian River Senior Center hosts Senior Strength & Balance on Mondays at 1:30 p.m.

See EVENTS page 31

Coastal Point

January 2, 2026

Southern Delaware Orchestra announces new president as Greifer set to retire By Susan Canfora Staff Reporter

and our values. “Now, we move forward into this next phase,” he conThe Southern Delaware tinued. “There is no one betOrchestra has “an incredibly ter equipped to lead this exciting year ahead,” coevolution than Stephen. His founder Steve Greifer said, commitment, strategic mind, also announcing that business acumen, dedication Stephen Mohr is taking over to the music and deep underas president as Greifer steps standing of Sodelo’s mission aside to retire. are exactly what the orchestra Mohr will also continue needs right now. I have every leading the orchestra’s perconfidence that he will guide cussion section. Sodelo with integrity and vi“After four years as cosion, steering us toward a fufounder and president, the ture where our artistic time has come for me to priambitions continue to be Coastal Point • Submitted oritize practicing music over matched by strong, clear oppromoting it and to embrace Sodelo’s Stephen Mohr is set to take over as president of erational and outreach goals the organization with the retirement of Steve Greifer. true retirement,” Greifer and accomplishments. Mohr will still lead the orchestra’s percussion section. said. “I will remain on the “While I may be retiring board and continue to lead from the presidency, I remain our marketing initiatives, but chestra, a deep commitment to one of Sodelo’s most devoted advoStephen will now lead the business music and perhaps a touch of cates. I eagerly anticipate being part of Sodelo. This transition will be naiveté. From that shared dream, of the future under Stephen and supported by Jim Anderson’s contin- Sodelo was born. As I step down Jim’s leadership as we continue to ued inspirational leadership as our from the presidency, I feel both an serve you, our family and neighbors, music director,” he said. overwhelming sense of pride in what and spread the joy and awareness of Four years ago, he said, he joined we have achieved and a deep sense of orchestral music. … If you love what Eva DelGallo and Anderson as they optimism for the future. I am prowe do, tell your friends and relatives. “embarked on what seemed an imOr, better yet, take them to our next foundly grateful to every musician, probable journey” and formed the board member and volunteer. Our concert,” he said. orchestra. People can join the orchestra’s success is truly owed to our shared “We shared a vision for an ormailing list at www.sodelomusic.org. love for our orchestra, our mission,

“Thank you once again for your role in our collective success. You have made each of our four years wonderful for our orchestra and volunteers, making it possible for us to bring our music and our excitement to the community. We hope to play some small part in your enjoyment of the coming year,” Greifer said. In 2025, he said, thousands were reached through concerts and programs including the orchestra’s debut performance on the Freeman Arts Pavilion near Selbyville and its alliance with the Children’s Beach House. “Capping it off with two sold-out performances of Handel’s ‘Messiah,’ alongside the Southern Delaware Chorale, was truly the icing on the cake. The joy of neighbors playing for neighbors continues to thrive,” he said. In 2026, the orchestra has several events planned, including a concert in March that will feature Mozart overtures and arias, as well as Dvořák’s “New World Symphony,” the annual DoMore 24 fundraising initiative, celebrating the nation’s 250th birthday, introducing a season ticket option and developing a longdreamed-of holiday program with Anderson.

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Coastal Point

January 2, 2026

‘Songs of good cheer’ by Singers of Note Coastal Point • Laura Walter

The Singers of Note performed at the Selbyville Public Library on Wednesday, Dec. 10. The group entertained the public with holiday songs during the free concert.

By Laura Walter Staff Reporter

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A joyful noise swept through the Selbyville Public Library when the Singers of Note sang a free holiday concert on Dec. 10. Some people had already marked their calendars, while others joined the audience midway, lured by the live music to delay their regular library explorations. Founded in 2000, the South Coastal Delaware AARP chorus comprises members from Millsboro, Millville, Lewes, Rehoboth, Georgetown and surrounding areas. After the concert, singers shared how much they enjoy being part of the group and the recent growth. Rehearsals are held weekly in Ocean View, ahead of the winter and spring concerts. To inquire about joining, contact Laura Weaver at LWeaveraarpchorus@gmail.com or (302) 382-4564.

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Coastal Point

January 2, 2026

Events Continued from page 28 and Fridays at 10 a.m. for senior center members. LaBlast Fitness at IRSC — The Indian River Senior Center hosts LaBlast Fitness on Mondays at 2:15 p.m. for senior center members. Chair Yoga at IRSC — The Indian River Senior Center hosts chair yoga at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesdays for senior center members. Zumba at IR Senior Center — The Indian River Senior Center hosts Zumba at 11 a.m. on Fridays for senior center members. Al-Anon Family Group — The Wednesday Mindfulness Al-Anon Family Group meets at Community Lutheran Church every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m.

Hobby/Craft Needlepoint Guild — Delaware’s Seashore Chapter of The American Needlepoint Guild meets on the first Monday of the month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Georgetown Public Library. Bringing a box lunch is encouraged. New members are always welcome. For details, send an email to the chapter at delawaresseashorechapter@needlepoint.org. Radio Operators — Any Ham radio operator, or people wanting to meet and greet others, can get together at the Millsboro Pizza King on Thursdays at 8:30 a.m. The ARRL Section Manager usually attends. For more information, contact Jack Magar at k8uyc80@gmail.com. Pen Pal Program — Thanks to a partnership between South Coastal Library, Kent

County Library and Wellington City Libraries, you can now communicate by letter with a New Zealander. This is a fun way to learn about another country and make a new friend. All international postage is handled, and you can bring in and pick up your letters at the library. For more information and registration, visit them at delawarelibraries.libcal.com/event/11366 626 or call (302) 858-5518. Book discussion — The Georgetown Public Library hosts its Wednesday Morning Book Discussion on the fourth Wednesday of every month at 10:15 a.m. In November and December, however, they will meet on the third Wednesday. Books are available for pickup each month at the library.

Music Music Jam — St. Matthews By the Sea United Methodist Church is hosting a Music Jam on the first and third Fridays of the month at 4 p.m. All levels are welcome. Women’s A Capella Chorus — A chapter of Sweet Adelines International Inc. holds rehearsals every Monday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Ocean Pines (Md.) Community Center. They are looking for ladies who love to sing. Members come from Maryland and Delaware. For more information, call Elissa at (410) 641-8050, find them on social media or visit delmarvachorus.org.

See EVENTS page 35

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Page 32

January 2, 2026

Dollars&Sense

Palazzo Jewelers open second location in Long Neck By Susan Canfora Staff Reporter Opening Palazzo Jewelers in early December in the Bayshore Plaza on Route 24 in Long Neck has been exciting for Sergio Palazzo, chief operating officer of the family business. It’s the second store for the team of son Sergio, mother Cathy and father Ruben, a master jeweler who owns Ocean View Jewelers in Millville. “We are very excited to be in Long Neck, to expand the company, to offer our services to more people,” Sergio Palazzo told the Coastal Point. “Business in the new store is really just duplicating what we have in the OVJ store. We are service-focused. We sell fine jewelry out of the cases, but our specialty is custom and repair, so we wanted to open here, to extend to more people. “We do custom work and we do tons of repurposings. If you had your grandmother’s piece and your mother’s piece, and you wanted to make one piece of jewelry that you would wear and you had stones that are very sentimental to you, we can help you do that. You are building something sentimental. That’s our specialty. “When you work with us, we are going to help you build your legacy. That’s what jewelry is. It’s your legacy. It’s your ancestor’s legacy. That’s why we are excited to be in a new area, in a new store and really fulfilling our purpose as a company,” Sergio Palazzo said. That purpose, noted on the website at www.palazzojewelry.com, is to “provide clients with exceptional fine jewelry, expert craftsmanship and unparalleled service.” “We are dedicated to building lasting relationships founded on honesty, integrity and trust. Beyond jewelry, we strive to make a meaningful impact by enriching lives and reinvesting in the communities we serve,” it states. “Our purpose as a company is really important to us and it is close to our

Coastal Point • Submitted

Ocean View’s Palazzo Jewelers opened a new location in the Bayshore Plaza in Long Neck. Pictured, from left are: Sergio (son) and Ruben Palazzo (father). hearts,” Palazzo said, adding that the family is also working on finding a third location, but it isn’t yet certain where it will be. Ocean View Jewelers relocated from Atlantic Avenue (Route 26) in Ocean View to Millville, at 35785 Atlantic Avenue, a few years ago. Both stores specialize not only in custom design but also in repairs. And four times each year, the owners welcome National Rarities — which, Sergio Palazzo said, “sets up shop in our stores for three days, and they evaluate everything from coins to memorabilia.” “It’s like an antiques road show. The community really likes it. It’s really is cool,” he said. The next one is planned for Tuesday through Thursday, Feb. 10-12, 2026, at the new Long Neck store. The history of the family jewelry business extends back to Ruben Palazzo’s

uncles — all expert jewelers who immigrated to the United States from Florence, Italy. He was 10 years old when he started helping them, he had previously told the Coastal Point. “I watched. I went up and down in this 14-floor building to deliver. My uncles designed jewelry. Everything was made by hand. One uncle had a jewelry store, and two uncles had a wholesale business. You have to be creative. If you don’t have that creativity in this business, you’re no good. Since I was 10, I watched and learned the procedures. They told me, ‘Sit down and don’t move.’That was in New York, in Rochester, N.Y.,” he said. “What I like best is, I like giving people the information that they need. I love doing that. I always believed — and I heard this from other people — information is power. If you have the information, you have the power. And to inform

people about what they are purchasing, what they are looking at, what they are buying, that is the best thing for me. If you have that information inside of you and you know it, no one can try to fool you,” he said. He said he never forgot the gem of advice his father bestowed: “If you do good, if you do the right thing, follow procedures, the money will come. You don’t have to worry about it. Don’t chase the money. Just help the people. And the people will help you. And that’s what it’s done, what this entire thing is built on, and giving people a little more than expected. This jewelry, this business, is in our blood. It’s our calling,” the senior Palazzo said. The new store is open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call (302) 288-0548 for more information.

January 2, 2026

Coastal Point

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January 2, 2026

School choice application period to end Jan. 14 The 2026-2027 school choice application period will run through Jan. 14, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. All Indian River School District school choice applications must be submitted online at schoolchoicede.org. The online system offers both English and Spanish options for applications. Decisions on Grades K-12 will begin Feb. 27, 2026. Parents must accept the invitation by the designated deadline within the invitation. Note: Kindergarten students must be pre-registered with their home school before school choice applications will be processed. When visiting schoolchoicede.org, parents must create an account with a username and password. It is recommended that the username be an e-mail address. Once an account has been created, the parent can complete the application for selection of choice schools.There are up to three choices available. However, the parent is not required to request three schools.They can simply request the school(s) of interest. A separate application is required for each child. Parents may also apply for the Spanish Immersion Program available at John M. Clayton Elementary, East Mills-

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See Crossword Answers page 37

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January 2, 2026

Calendar Continued from page 24 is preferred. Call 302-732-9351 or visit us online at frankford.lib.de.us. Find us on FB @FrankfordPublicLibrary and Instagram @frankfordlibrary. Teens & Tweens Book Club — Join Frankford Public Library at 5 p.m. in discussing The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. New members are always welcome. Pick up your book at the library or download it on Hoopla. Spots are limited, so registration is encouraged. Call 302-732-9351 or visit us online at frankford.lib.de.us. Find us on FB @FrankfordPublicLibrary and Instagram @frankfordlibrary. Winter Story Time — Join South Coastal Library at 10:30 a.m. for a magical Winter Wonderland story time filled with snowy tales, fun songs and cozy winter cheer! Perfect for children ages 5 and under. No

Events Continued from page 31

Museums/Displays Railroad Museum — The Delaware Seaside Railroad Clubhouse is an interactive museum of model railroading, and is located at 36668 DuPont Boulevard, in Selbyville. They are open to the public every Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m., and every Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. They are closed Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Admission is free. For more information, visit them online at delawareseasiderailroadclub.com. Dinker-Irvin Museum — The Bethany

Coastal Point registration required, but parents/caregivers must accompany children. Hosted by the South Coastal Library, 43 Kent Avenue, Bethany Beach, DE 19930 https://southcoastal.lib.de.us 302-858-5518 Yarn Swap — Instead of tossing leftover yarn you no longer can use, bring it to South Coastal Library at 2 p.m. for a fun swap! Swap out old skeins (limit of 10 skeins) of gently used or new yarn for newto-you ones! Yarn must be in good condition, but partial skeins are accepted. (Please do not donate other crafting supplies.) Any yarn left over will be donated to the library for future use at our discretion. We will also have needleworking, knitting, macrame and yarn-related inspirational books available for checkout! Free, for Ages 13-plus. No registration required. Hosted by the South Coastal Library, 43 Kent Avenue, Bethany Beach, DE 19930 https://southcoastal.lib.de.us 302-8585518 Beach Museum at Dinker-Irvin Cottage is open to the public currently on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. During summer months, from May through September, hours are Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 10 a.m. to noon. Private tours are available by appointment. Interested groups of 10-15 may call (302) 5398725. Admission to the museum is free, and parking is available in front of the museum. The museum is not handicapaccessible. For more information, visit online at townofbethanybeach.com, and click under “Residents/History/Town Museum.” Nanticoke Indian Museum — The Nanticoke Indian Museum is the only Native

January 8 Adult Craft: Watercolor Bookmarks — Join Frankford Public Library at 10:30 a.m. in making Winter Scenes or Spring Flowers watercolor painting bookmarks. Artist Michele Crane will show us how to paint watercolor bookmarks—the perfect gift for the reader in your life! No watercolor painting experience necessary. Registration is required. Call 302-732-9351 or visit us online at frankford.lib.de.us. Find us on FB @FrankfordPublicLibrary and Instagram @frankfordlibrary Let’s Play Games: For Adults — Join Frankford Public Library on Thursdays at 1 p.m. to play games such as dominoes, Scrabble, and card games. Call 302-7329351 or visit us online at frankford.lib.de.us. Find us on FB @FrankfordPublicLibrary and Instagram @frankfordlibrary. Beginner’s Crochet Series, Part 1 — Mary American museum in Delaware, and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, along with being part of the Delaware History Trail. The museum is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays to Saturdays. Admission is $5 per person. For more information, visit nanticokeindians.org/locations/nanticokeindian-museum.

Faith Community Bible Study — Grace United Methodist Church in Millsboro is hosting a Bible Study this fall on Wednesday mornings, starting on Sept. 6, from 10 a.m. to noon. For more information, and to register, visit sussexcounty.cbsclass.org.

35 Beth Leonard will teach a free introductory crochet class at South Coastal Library at 10 a.m. in three two-hour sessions. Part one will cover a brief history of the craft, introduce you to basic tools and materials, and teach you basic techniques and tips. Taking the steps together, you’ll begin making a basic project using three main stitches. Class two (Jan. 15) will introduce more crochet stitches and teach you how to read crochet patterns and charts while working on your project. You will finish your project and discover additional crocheting resources in the final class (Jan. 22) Free, for ages 18-plus, all materials provided. Registration is required, and available to those who intend to participate in all three sessions. Registration opens at 10 a.m. on Jan. 2 at https://southcoastal.lib.de.us or by calling 302-858-5518. (Online registra-

See CALENDAR page 36 Community Bible Study — Community Bible Study, focusing on the Book of Psalms, will meet every Thursday at Mariners Bethel in the Fellowship Hall from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. To register, go online to bethanybeacheve.cbsclass.org. Bible Study — Salem Church in Selbyville is hosting Bible study every Thursday at 10 a.m. Women of Faith — The women’s group meets the first Monday of the month at Salem Church in Selbyville at 6:30 p.m. For more information, visit sumc.com. Men of Christ — The men’s group meets the second Monday of the month at Salem Church in Selbyville at 6:30 p.m. For more information, visit sumc.com.

Coastal Point

Calendar Continued from page 35 tion recommended!) Hosted by the South Coastal Library, 43 Kent Avenue, Bethany Beach, DE 19930 Cooking by the Book — Each month, participants in this cookbook club at South Coastal Library at 1 p.m. will choose a recipe from the same cookbook and then make and bring in the dish to share with the group. Participants are encouraged to discuss cooking, recipes (and how to improve them,) as well as the book itself. This month, we will be sharing foods from Every Season is Soup Season by Shelly Westerhausen Worcel, which is available for checkout (while supplies last,) or you may look at a copy in the library. Also, in celebration of the holidays, we encourage participants to bring cookies to exchange with others. There will also be a cookbook swap. Participants are encouraged to bring their own Tupperware to take home leftovers. FreeE, for ages 18-plus. Registration is required and available at

www.southcoastal.lib.de.us or by calling 302-858-5518 Hosted by the South Coastal Library, 43 Kent Avenue, Bethany Beach, DE 19930 Herbal Slime Fun — Mix up stretchy slime infused with herbs for a fun, hands-on sensory experience at South Coastal Library at 5 p.m. This program for elementary-aged children explores textures, plant properties, and sensory integration through creative play. Conducted by ROOTS Youth Development. Registration is required and available at https://southcoastal.lib.de.us or by calling 302-8585518. (Online registration recommended!) Walk-ins accepted if space allows. Hosted by the South Coastal Library, 43 Kent Avenue, Bethany Beach, DE 19930

January 9 Book Club — Frankford Public Library’s Adult Book Group generally meets on the first Friday of the month except January (meeting has been moved to second Friday) for an informal discussion about a fiction, nonfiction or classic title. For Jan-

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January 2, 2026

uary, we will discuss The Glassmaker by Tracy Chevalier at 1 p.m. Copies of the book are available at the Frankford Public Library. Call 302-732-9351 or visit us online at frankford.lib.de.us. Find us on Facebook @FrankfordPublicLibrary and Instagram @frankfordlibrary. In the Genes — This bi-monthly group meeting by the South Coastal Genealogy Group at South Coastal Library at 10:15 a.m. is for genealogy enthusiasts of all skill levels. Learn genealogy resources, tricks, and methods from each other in a welcoming environment while meeting others and conversing about current projects. The meeting is setup as a discussion, however, select genealogy resources are also shown/demonstrated by meeting facilitator. Meetings are held every other month on select Fridays at 10:15 am (no meetings June–September). Free, for ages 18-plus, no registration needed. Hosted by the South Coastal Library, 43 Kent Avenue, Bethany Beach, DE 19930 302-858-5518 https://southcoastal.lib.de.us Wetlands 101 in Delaware — Join us at South Coastal Library at 2 p.m. for a free educational program on wetlands, including what wetlands are, how they function, and why they are important and in need of protection. "Travel" through the first state to see these unique ecosystems upclose and personal, gain knowledge on how DNREC conducts research and education, and much more. Presented by DNREC’s Division of Watershed Stewardship. Registration is appreciated and coordinated by DNREC. Visit www.southcoastal.lib.de.us for details and registration link. Hosted by the South Coastal Library, 43 Kent Avenue, Bethany Beach, DE 19930 302-858-5518

January 10 A.R.I.S.E. Financial Literacy Workshop — Teens are invited to join the A.R.I.S.E Youth Mentoring team in becoming financially literate, at Frankford Public Library at 11 a.m. Local Fulton Bank employees, Jvonne Oliver and Liz Castellanos, will guide students through this workshop on learning how to manage money, budgeting, and building financial confidence.

Reserve your spot today and take control of your financial future! Habrá un traductor de español en este evento. Learn more about them at ariseyouthmentoring.com Call 302-732-9351 or visit us online at frankford.lib.de.us. Funs us on FB @FrankfordPublicLibrary and Instagram @frankfordlibrary.

January 12 Hooks and Needles — Join Frankford Public Library on Mondays at 1 p.m. for a fun afternoon of knitting and crocheting. All levels are welcome. Call 302-7329351 or visit us online at frankford.lib.de.us. Find us on FB @FrankfordPublicLibrary and Instagram @frankfordlibrary. Gentle Yoga Flow — Join Sarah Schaber, RYT-500 certified yoga instructor, for a free, one-hour Gentle Flow Yoga class at South Coastal Library at 10:15 a.m. Ideal for beginners, seniors, and anyone looking for a slower flow practice. We will learn breathing techniques, postures, and exercises to promote flexibility and strength, balance, and relaxation. Please bring a yoga mat or towel from home. The instructor also recommends 4-inch-deep foam yoga blocks. If you are unable to get onto the floor easily, do not worry, we will provide chairs. There are options for all! Registration opens at 12 p.m. on Dec. 8 and is available at www.southcoastal.lib.de.us or by calling 302-858-5518 (calling unavailable Dec. 4-14.) (Online registration recommended!) Walk-ins accepted if space allows. Hosted by the South Coastal Library, 43 Kent Avenue, Bethany Beach, DE 19930 Concert: Music of the 50s and 60s — Join Vincent Varrassi, Ken Schleifer and Jeff Cooper of Notes on the Beach as they celebrate music from the 50s and 60s at South Coastal Library at 3 p.m. Revisit the emergence of “rock n’ roll” with songs by artists such as Elvis, Chuck Berry and Fats Domino, with a little Motown and the Beatles thrown in. Free, no registration or library card is required. Hosted by the South Coastal Library, 43 Kent Avenue, Bethany Beach, DE 19930 302-858-5518 https://southcoastal.lib.de.us

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Coastal Point

January 2, 2026

School choice Continued from page 34 boro Elementary and North Georgetown Elementary for kindergarteners. (Certain conditions apply for applications to the Spanish Immersion program in later grades.) Existing school choice students currently in the fifth or eighth grades require completion of another school choice application to be considered for the next building level next school year. Failure to complete the new school choice application will result in the student being placed in his/her home school for the 2026-2027 school year. Current eighth-grade Southern Delaware School of the Arts students wishing to attend a high school other than their designated feeder school (based on

home address) must also complete a school choice application. The school choice system will also designate district schools that are anticipated to have openings and those that are at capacity. Parents will still be permitted to submit applications for “at capacity” schools. However, those applications may be placed on a waitlist or denied due to capacity. The parent/guardian will receive an email confirmation once the school choice application has been submitted.The parent/guardian may review, edit or withdraw the application at any time prior to the Jan. 14, 2026, deadline with the use of the established username and password. For more information about school choice or the online application system, contact the IRSD district office at (302) 436-1000.

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 grid contains the digits 1 through 9.That means that no number is repeated in any row, column or box.

Crossword Answers from 34

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Obits Continued from page 21 ademic success. She skipped two grades, leading to her graduating high school at the age of 16. In addition to her studies, she participated in many activities, with particular interest in theatrical productions. She earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Temple University and did further graduate work in English at Temple. Hakun was proud of having had jobs early in her life. During and after high school, she spent summers in Seaside Park, N.J., working jobs to help finance her college education. She went on to work in the city of Philadelphia as a clinical chemist at Episcopal Hospital and as a biochemical research associate at Philadelphia General Hospital. Her graduate studies in English led naturally to her work in pharmaceutical advertising, starting at Wyeth Laboratories as a medical copywriter. She has been a licensed Realtor, and did freelance and portrait photography. Her many interests included music, literature, theater and the fine arts. She also had a love of adventure and travel. She traveled across the U.S., explored Peru, going to Machu Picchu, and traveled to Italy numerous times. She had visited other

Coastal Point countries in Europe, including Spain and had been to Mexico several times (Acapulco, Cozumel and Merida in Yucatan). She traveled in the Caribbean to St. Thomas, Jamaica and St. Maarten/St. Martin. While in St. Thomas, she took brief instruction in scuba diving and then proceeded to swim 85 feet below the surface. She always returned from her trips with exciting stories of her many encounters. Her love of adventure even extended to the kitchen, where she and her sister spent many happy hours cooking and laughing together. Hakun moved to New York City in 1978. Working as a medical copywriter initially for Pfizer, she then did pharmaceutical advertising writing at the Kallir, Philips & Ross medical advertising agency, and then finally worked for 14 years at the William Douglas McAdams medical agency achieving the titles of senior vice president and copy director. She received many pharmaceutical advertising awards for her work. While living in New York, she enjoyed and appreciated its many orchestras, museums and theaters (Broadway, off-Broadway and offoff-Broadway). After living in New York City, she retired to Bowie, Md and enjoyed the D.C., Baltimore and Annapolis environment. Being near her grandchil-

dren was a real pleasure for her. She also liked gardening and put in a pond that frogs couldn’t resist. Later, she moved to Delaware to be near her sister. In Delaware, she became an early resident of the new community The Hamlet at Dirickson Pond and became active in the Hamlet Women’s Club. In the early days of the club, she was president for one year and also organized social activities like for July 4th, Oktoberfest and Christmas celebrations. Hakun always loved dogs. She had dogs in Pennsylvania, Maryland and Delaware. In her ode to Ami, who was with her in Maryland and Delaware, she said, “You showed me the true meaning of love.” She had longstanding interests and skills in interior decoration. Her dining room in The Hamlet has one wall that makes one feel like they are in Tuscany. She always worked hard and persevered through difficulties, coming up with unique and creative ways to be successful. She brought that same energy to the people in her life. She mentored and championed them, always being kind and compassionate. She was always open and present to the lives she touched. Hakun is survived by her longtime partner, James Searl; her son, Claef Hakun and his wife, Marijane;

$1,845.

January 2, 2026 Claef Hakun’s father, Joseph Hakun; her grandchildren, Jenna Hakun and her husband, Nick Stawinski, and Maxwell Hakun and Luke Hakun. She is also survived by her sister, Carol Britsch Miles and her husband, Jim. The family thanked Griswold Home Care for their caring staff, and particularly their caregivers Mary Suarez and Takesha Major, and to AccentCare Hospice as well, for their care and support. Interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery in Yeadon, Pa., on Jan. 12, 2026, at noon. Condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com.

Joseph Brian Manning, 64 Joseph Brian Manning, 64, of Millsboro, Del., passed away on Dec. 22, 2025, at Beebe Healthcare in Lewes, Del. Born on March 4, 1961, in Baltimore, Md., he was the son of the late John Manning Sr. and Audrey Williams. After graduating from high school, he proudly served his country by joining the U.S. Army and continued his dedication to service with more than 17 years in the National Guard. He was a devoted employee who dedicated 25 years of his life to Beebe Healthcare, where he was known for his commitment and strong work ethic. Growing up in Baltimore, Manning was a lifelong fan of the Baltimore Orioles and the Baltimore Ravens, faithfully supporting his hometown teams. He enjoyed shopping and, most of all, spending time with his family, who meant everything to him. He will be remembered for his service, his loyalty to family and the love he shared with those around him. Manning was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved daughter, Crystal Manning; his siblings, Sharon Forsythe and Louis Manning; and his niece, Jackie Manning.

See OBITS page 39

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Coastal Point

January 2, 2026

Obits Continued from page 38 He is survived by his loving wife, Sonia Manning; his children, Holly Kirby (and Martin) and Becky Manning (and Charles); and his cherished grandchildren, Kaleb Friend, Jace Speleos, Zoey Speleos, McKenzie Friend, Lyla Kirby, Cash Kirby, Cooper Friend, Tristan Friend, Addison Friend, Wren Kirby, Laney Friend and Ava Friend. He is also survived by his brothers, John Manning (and Diane), Mike Manning (and Joanne), Bobby Manning (and Karen) and David Manning (and Valerie); and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and greatnephews. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025, at Watson Funeral Home & Crematorium, 211

S. Washington Street, Millsboro, Del., at 11:30 a.m. A viewing will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., prior to the service. Interment will follow immediately at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

Larry Wayne Mitchem, 85 Larry Wayne Mitchem, 85, of Millsboro, Del., peacefully passed away at home, surrounded by his loving family, on Dec. 22, 2025. He was born on Aug. 14, 1940, in Montcalm, W.Va., the son of the late Roy Marvin Mitchem and Elsie Nell (Asbury) Mitchem. On Sept. 26, 1959, Mitchem married the love of his life, Lucille Marie Belcher. Together, they shared many devoted years of marriage until her passing. He spent his life working as a farmer — a role that perfectly reflected his character. He was known

as a very hardworking man who valued dedication, perseverance and providing for those he loved. In his free time, he enjoyed the simple pleasures of life: he never missed an auction, especially at Dill’s, and spent countless hours on the water fishing — activities that brought him great joy and peace. His legacy lives on through the many generations who were blessed to know his strength, love, and quiet devotion to family. Mitchem was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Lucille Marie Mitchem; his children, Anthony Wayne Mitchem, Ronnie Dale Mitchem and Sheila Jane Mitchem; and his grandson Nicholas Martin Hoover. He is survived by his cherished grandchildren Crystal Baldwin, Jason Mitchem, Christopher Mitchem, Jennifer Mitchem, Jessica Sealey and Leah Bowler; his great-grandchildren Spencer

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Hitchens, Cohen Burns, Aubree Jane Cobo, Alexis Houseman, Joylin Rathbone, Aria Mitchem, Hannah Mitchem, Andru Mitchem, Aailiyah Mitchem, Airabella Sealey and Kegan Sealey; his great-great-grandchild Greyson Ryan Hitchens; his nephew Kevin Catron; his daughterin-law, Robin Buckles Mitchem; and his closest friends: Mr. Jim, Albert, his dear friend Ms. Leslie and his little auction buddy, Jason. A celebration of Mitchem’s life will be held on Friday, Jan. 2, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Watson Funeral Home & Crematorium, 211 S. Washington Street, Millsboro, Del. Visitation will take place from 10 to 11 a.m., prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made by visiting the funeral home’s website and planting a tree in his memory. His life memorial webpage is at www.watsonfh.com.

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Get the news with a local perspective! Find it each week in the THE LOCAL VOICE OF YOUR COMMUNITY

In print every Friday and online 24/7 at www.coastalpoint.com

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Coastal Point

January 2, 2026

Religious Services Transforming Lives by the Power of the Gospel for the Glory of God

St. Andrew The Apostle Orthodox Church Saturday Vespers 6:00 pm Sunday Orthros 9:00 am Sunday Liturgy 10:00 am

Get-acquainted coffee hour after the service

The beautiful church with a small congregation and a

Service Schedule Sunday Morning Life Groups

ST. MARTIN’S IN THE FIELD EPISCOPAL CHURCH Sunday Service at 10 a.m. Big, Welcoming Heart!

10:00 am 11:15 am

Visitors Always Welcome!

75 West Church St.; Selbyville Parking: Front or Back The Rev. Glenn Duffy 302.436.8921 • StMartinsSelbyville.org

22860 N. Dupont Blvd., Georgetown • 302-856-3773 office@calvarygeorgetown.com Pastor Jeremy Barbrow

Fr. Herman Acker, Pastor

33384 Mackenzie Way - Lewes, 19958 OrthodoxDelmar.org 302.645.5791

SUNDAY SCHEDULE MILLVILLE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Grounded in God’s Grace Moving in Christ’s Love

Join us for Sunday worship at 9:30 am. All are welcome! Adult Sunday School following the service Everyone is welcome as we share the good news of God's love and grace.

36405 Club House Road, Millville, DE 19967

MillvilleMethodistChurch.org

Like us on Facebook

Pastor Wendy Butterworth

ST. MARTHA’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

Join us on Sundays

9 am Praise & Worship Service 9 am Kids’ Church 11 am Traditional Worship Service Childcare available at the 9 AM service Check us out on Facebook and YouTube

302.539.9510 81 Central Avenue, Ocean View

MarinersBethel.org Rev. Dr. Rebecca Collison Rev. Dr. Leo Park

SUNDAY HOLY EUCHARIST

302.539.9077

Ocean View Presbyterian Church

with music and on YouTube

CHOOSE WELCOME All WE Are Welcome SUNDAY WORSHIP 9:30 AM In This Place 67 Central Ave., Ocean View, DE 19970 ovpc.org PC(USA) 302-539-3455 SUNDAY WORSHIP

Visit our website to sign up for our twice-weekly news and Saturday Inspiration emails. We offer Bible Study, adult education courses, and more!

Informal 30 minute outdoor service for you and your animal friends with coffee and treats!

8:00 am 10:00 am

StMarthasBethanyBeach.org God is Love and those who live in love, live in God, and God lives in them. 1John 4:16

302.539.7444 The Rev. Victoria Pretti, Rector 117 Maplewood Street Bethany Beach

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Pastor Terry Dougherty Walkers & Waggers - 8:30 am

Traditional Service - 9:30 am live on Facebook & YouTube

Bible Study Tuesday at 10:00 am 67 Central Ave. (Enter Church Street from West Avenue) Ocean View, DE 19970 ovpc.org PC(USA) 302-539-3455

Join us for in-person services Fridays at 7pm

Saturdays, January 3 & 24 at 10am

Call for More Information 410-641-4311 or email office@templebatyam-oc.org 11036 Worcester Hwy., Berlin, MD 21811 TempleBatYam-oc.org

Coastal Point

January 2, 2026

Religious Services FENWICK ISLAND BAPTIST CHURCH

BETHANY BEACH CHRISTIAN CHURCH

36806 Lighthouse Rd., next to Float-ors

Chapter by Chapter, Verse by Verse Approach to Scripture

(Disciples of Christ)

SUNDAYS

SUNDAY SERVICE 9:30 am

Sunday School - all ages - 9 a.m. Worship & Celebration - 10 a.m. Evening Bible Study - 5 p.m.

In-Person & Live-Streaming on YouTube Celebrating 25 years of full-time ministry

WEDNESDAYS

Serving • Inclusive • Open-Minded • Open Communion

Interactive Bible Study - 6 p.m.

FenwickIslandBaptist.com

THE BEACH FELLOWSHIP Sundays at 9am

Worship on the Beach 15 N. Pennsylvania Ave. Bethany Beach (octagonal building) Sharing the Truth of God’s Word, Verse by Verse

TheBeachFellowship.com

302.539.4118 BethanyBeachDisciples.org

St. Mark’s Episcopal Church

You are Welcomed No matter who you are, where you’re from, what you look like, or who you love 9:30am Sunday Service Bible Study Wednesdays at 11am Ellis and West State Streets in Millsboro DE 19966

Ocean View Church of Christ

SOUND UNITED

METHODIST CHURCH

Established in 1779 “Loving & Living so that Others see Jesus in us”

In-Person & Live-Streamed Facebook.com/RoxanaZionAndSoundUMC

every Sunday, 8:30 a.m.

Pastor John Schutt 302.436.4011 37890 Sound Church Road, Selbyville 19975

Seaside Jewish Community

55 West Ave., Ocean View

Celebrating 25 Years An egalitarian unaffiliated congregation

Sunday 8:30 & 10 am In-Person LIVE broadcast on:

CCOVDE.org Wednesday 6:30 pm In Person

Bible Study

Shabbat Services

A Big Church With A Bigger Heart Sunday Worship Services

Preacher Ethan Magee • 302.539.7468 • CCOVDE.org

PCC4God.com on Facebook at

Where the Word and the Spirit agree

7 N. Pennsylvania Avenue, Bethany Beach

Facebook.com/ groups/PCChurch

Sunday Worship 10 am

8:30AM Praise & Worship Service 9:00AM Kids’ Church

Visit our website to sign up for our email newsletter for notification of events and worship services. Adult and youth education programs, activities, social events, discussion groups, religious school

Religious Leader Rabbi Julie Hilton Danan (302) 226 8977 www.SeasideJewishCommunity.com 18790 Holland Glade Rd., Rehoboth Beach

PreK thru 8th Grade 10:30AM Traditional Worship Service Nursery is available for both services

KidsPort Kids Church 10 am

302-934-7969 www.gracechurchmillsboro.com 300 E. Church Street, Millsboro

Saturday 6 pm Sunday 9 & 11 am

Pastor Bill Lorman 302.436.4522 28574 Cypress Road Selbyville

graceofficeemail@gmail.com Pastor Missy Rekitzke

River Kids is Available During All Services RiverOnline.Church

Frankford Presbyterian Church

You are welcome here!

Helping others help themselves

10 am Sunday Worship in-person

A welcoming church family committted to serving a God known for Unconditional Love and Acceptance.

302.732.6774

Pastor David McNeilly

Main Street, at the foot of Thatcher Street in Frankford

Nearly New Thift Shop Fri., 9-5 & Sat., 9-1

St. Matthews by the Sea United Methodist Church 1000 Coastal Hwy., Fenwick Island

Sundays: 9:30 am Rev. Jake Macklin, Pastor • 302.537.1402

35175 Roxana Rd. Frankford, 19945

CC Delaware Coast A Calvary Chapel Fellowship

Sunday Worship 10 am

Wednesdays Bible Study @ 7 pm Spirit-Filled, Verse by Verse Teaching 48 N. Main Street, Selbyville or join us on Facebook - click link on

ccdelcoast.church For more information, contact Pastor Rob LoRusso

302.500.1774

info@ccdelcoast.org

Coastal Point

Our licensed Realtors ors invite you to their

January 2, 2026

EN! GO GRE ur yo Submit line from on s e s u Open Ho t the top of our a k n li the ge. Visit homepa int.com o lp coasta y! toda

Having an Open House? Call us at 302.539.1788 302 539 1788

ADDRESS

PRICE

BR/BA

STYLE

AGENT/AGENCY

DAY

TIME

23516 Stone Ln., Millville by the Sea, Millville

$674,900

4BR/3.5BA

House

Denise D’Adamo | Coldwell Banker Realty

Fri., 1/2

12-2

33 Waterside Dr., Bridgeville

$425,000

2BR/2BA

House

The Real McCoy Group | Coldwell Banker Realty

Sat., 1/3

10-12

339 Fairway Ln., Greens at Indian River, Dagsboro

$629,900

3BR/2BA

House

Steve Morgan | Keller Williams Realty

Sat., 1/3

10:30-12:30

26925 White House Rd. #14556, White House Beach, Millsboro

$99,000

3BR/2BA

Double Wide

Bogi Szabo | Keller Williams Realty

Sat., 1/3

11-1

33172 Ponte Vecchio Plaza, Reserves, Ocean View

$850,000

4BR/3BA

House

Jo Ann Glakas Pappalardo | Coldwell Banker Realty

Sat., 1/3

11-1

36287 Sunflower Blvd., Bayside, Selbyville

$598,000

3BR/3BA

Townhome

Anne Powell Del Vecchio | Coldwell Banker Realty

Sat., 1/3

11-1

25512 Fox Point Ln., Bishops Landing, Millville

$689,000

4BR/3BA

House

Chrisy Tingle | Keller Williams Realty

Sat., 1/3

11-1

37199 Sand Dollar Ln., Keen Wik West, Selbyville

$2,499,500

4BR/4.5BA

House

Don Conant | Layton Associates

Sat., 1/3

11-2

23516 Stone Ln., Millville by the Sea, Millville

$674,900

4BR/3.5BA

House

Denise D’Adamo | Coldwell Banker Realty

Sat., 1/3

12-2

26395 Timbercreek Ln., Millsboro

$437,500

4BR/2BA

House

The Real McCoy Group | Coldwell Banker Realty

Sat., 1/3

12-2

46 Broad St., Greenwood

$389,900

3BR/2BA

House

The Real McCoy Group | Coldwell Banker Realty

Sat., 1/3

12-2

31870 Mill Run Dr., Ocean View

$599,500

4BR/2.5BA

House

Steve Morgan | Keller Williams Realty

Sat., 1/3

1-2

38179 Greenport Ln., Ocean View

$425,000

3BR/4BA

Townhome

The Real McCoy Group | Coldwell Banker Realty

Sat., 1/3

1-3

25512 Fox Point Ln., Bishops Landing, Millville

$689,000

4BR/3BA

House

Chrisy Tingle | Keller Williams Realty

Wed., 1/7

2-4

Coastal Point

January 2, 2026

Best Bets FRIDAY NHL Hockey (19) TNT (24) TRUTV 8 p.m. ’Tis the season for NHL action, and the battle of I-95 brings Artemi Panarin and the struggling New York Rangers down to Miami’s LoanDepot Park to face Aleksander Barkov and the defending champion Florida Panthers in an Eastern Conference showdown. The Last Woodsmen (44) DISC 9:10 p.m. With fire season rapidly approaching, a shutdown is imminent in the Pacific Northwest. In this new episode, Jared and his crew need to move fast to fill one final barge. But when a chainsaw sparks a fire at the Forever Claim, Jared must decide whether to end the season.

SATURDAY Stolen Girl (22) LIFE 8 p.m. When her daughter is kidnapped and taken to the Middle East by her ex-husband, a mother (Kate Beckinsale) teams up with a former marine (Scott Eastwood) and travels to Beirut to find her. Instead, they’re pulled into a treacherous web of corruption and international espionage. This thriller is inspired by a true story. House Hunters (41) HGTV 10 p.m. A Texas couple looks to leave the Lone Star State and move to Tampa, Florida., to be closer to his family. She won’t move unless they get something big and beautiful, while he is hoping to make the move to the Sunshine State without breaking the bank.

SUNDAY Worst Cooks in America (43) FOOD 8 p.m. Another group of horrible cooks are ready to send the culinary field back 50 years in this season premiere. But this season has a twist: chefs Jeff Mauro and Tiffany Derry will be mentoring celebrity misfits such as stars from the Real Housewives franchise, professional dancers, Olympians and more. The Simpsons (5) FOX (69) WTXF 9:30 p.m. There’s always time to enjoy a fun-filled trip to Springfield. This beloved sitcom returns from a brief holiday break with a parody of the hit Apple TV series “Severance.” In this episode, Homer lands a job at a highly secretive company with a mind-altering agenda.

Bethany

6 PM (3) CW (5) FOX (6) WBOC (7) WMDT (11) WBAL (12) WCPB (19) TNT (21) FX (22) LIFE (23) A&E (24) TRUTV (28) ESPN (29) ESPN2 (33) GOLF (41) HGTV (43) FOOD (44) DISC (45) HIST (46) ANPL (48) DISN (50) TVLND (60) AMC (61) BRAV (69) WTXF