LEWES
PHOTO COURTESY OF DIANE BARLOW
Expert Contributors
Alison Houck
CPA, Managing Partner Faw Casson, Rehoboth Beach (302) 226-1919
alh@fawcasson.com | www.fawcasson.com
Alison Houck is a certi昀椀ed public accountant based in Sussex County. She is a University of Delaware graduate and was named as Best Accountant in Sussex County in 2014, 2015 and 2016. Alison is an attentive and earnest listener, she takes the time to really understand what is at the core of client issues. She serves on the Board in 2014, 2015 and 2016. Alison is an attentive and earnest what is at the core of of Ambassadors and Finance Committee for the Beebe Medical Foundation and the Board of Directors of Children & Families First of Delaware.
Lee Ann Wilkinson
CEO & Associate Broker, The Lee Ann Wilkinson Group of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty (302) 645-6664
info@leeanngroup.com | www.LeeAnnGroup.com
#1 real estate team in Delaware, #3 nationally for BHHS, and has been in real estate 20+ years. Lee Ann Wilkinson has led the top-selling real estate team in Sussex County for more than 20+ years and now ranks #1 sales spot in the NATION for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. The Lee Ann sales spot in the The Lee Ann Wilkinson Group should be your only call for superior service and outstanding results in real estate at the beach. at the beach.
RETIREMENT PLANNING AND ASSET PROTECTION
Dan White, CLU, ChFC, RICP
President & CEO Daniel A. White & Associates, LLC 1520 Savannah Road, Suite 2, Lewes, DE 19958 (302) 212-4666 | www.danwhiteandassociates.com
Dan White & Associates was founded in 1987, specializing in retirement and 昀椀nancial planning. We focus on addressing the distinctive 昀椀nancial needs of those Dan White & nearing retirement and those who have already retired. Today, Dan White & Associates houses 昀椀ve 昀椀nancial professionals between our three of昀椀ces located in of昀椀ces located in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania, Middletown, Delaware and Lewes, Delaware. As a member of Ed Slott’s Elite IRA Advisor Group℠ Dan White trains with Ed Slott and his As a member of Ed Slott’s Elite IRA team of IRA Experts on a continual basis. They are immediately noti昀椀ed of changes to the tax code and updates on retirement planning, so you can be sure your team of IRA retirement dollars are safe from unnecessary taxes and fees. We work with our clients to construct a plan together that will give our clients a clear path toward a path safe and secure retirement. At our 昀椀rm, we take a different approach than most advisors by priding ourselves in the educational aspect of retirement planning. safe and secure retirement. At our 昀椀rm, we take a
REAL ESTATE INSURANCE
Ron Krajewski
Agent 28354 Lewes Georgetown Highway, Milton, DE 19968-3115 Bus: 302-664-1640 ron@savewithron.com www.savewithron.com
Born and raised in Rehoboth, Ron Krajewski brings deep local roots and extensive insurance expertise to his State Farm agency in Milton, Delaware, which he agency in Milton, Delaware, which he established in 2012. A Salisbury University graduate with management experience at State Farm, Ron specializes in comprehensive protection, offering auto, established in 2012. A home, life, and business insurance, along with 昀椀nancial services throughout Sussex, Kent, New Castle, Wicomico, and Worcester counties. His bilingual team serves the Milton, Lewes, Milford, Georgetown, and Harbeson communities with personalized attention in both English and Spanish. As an active community As an active community leader, Ron is proud to be a member of the Milton and Rehoboth Chamber of Commerce, Beebe Medical Foundation, Dewey Beach Lion's Club, and Lewes and Lewes Yacht Club. His commitment to service extends to supporting local 昀椀re departments, Habitat for Humanity, Food Bank and various community initiatives. departments, Whether you're a long-time resident or new to the area, Ron's team is ready to help protect what matters most to you.
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Chadd Miller at chaddmiller@bestversionmedia.com or (305) 519-4903.
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LEWES N EI G H NEIGH B O RS BORS
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Phone: 302-855-3928
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Do you have feedback, ideas, or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you. Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com and select, “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas, and photos to rswick@bestversionmedia.com.
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Welcome to February!
My theme for February is "Embracing self-love and nourishing the soul." Many call February the month of love, but I think love can span so much more than romantic love.
Love can be loving yourself by taking care of yourself the best way you can whether that is going for lunch with a friend, having coffee and meditating, joining a new yoga class or book club, getting a massage, or even just taking the afternoon off to do something that speaks to your soul.
So often we get wrapped up in the stress of every day living that we forget to take even just a half day for ourselves. Explore Lewes, learn about our vibrant history, try a new coffee shop, or just take a walk along the canal. It's all here for you to rest and re-set your soul.
I hope you enjoy this month's issue, which yes, is all about love! First, meet Diane and Marty - our lovely featured family.They are proof that love comes at all ages and phases of life.
Then love yourself and a spouse or friend by booking a trip with Bethany Travel! I loved getting to know this family-owned business and really enjoy their tagline: "The Internet is for looking; Bethany Travel is for booking."
Next, plan your month with our calendar of upcoming events, and meet the pup of the month, Mico!
Enjoy your February and I will see you back here in March!
Rachel Swick Mavity
Rachel Swick Mavity, Content Coordinator, Lewes Neighbors
Diane & Marty: A Lewes Love Story
By Rachel Swick Mavity
Photos Courtesy of Diane Barlow
In many ways, Diane Barlow and Marty Rosensweig lived parallel lives. They both attended college at Rutgers in New Jersey; Diane at the all-women’s Douglass College. They both have been married in the past, losing spouses to cancer at young ages. Both of their second spouses were treated at Tunnell Cancer Center. They both volunteer with several organizations, including Historic Lewes.
Finding Lewes and Each Other
Marty grew up in New Jersey and, after college, he moved to the D.C. area with his 昀椀rst wife where he was a computer consultant, starting out in telephone billing systems before launching his own company.
He lived there for 40 years where he married his second wife, Karen.
Karen was a professor at the Gallaudet College for the Deaf and when she decided to slow down her working life, they decided
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to move and found Lewes. “We had vacationed in Bethany with friends for several years, but it was more of a summer town and we wanted something that was year-round,” Marty said. “We explored the area and really fell in love with Lewes.”
“I always wanted to live by the water and we wanted to 昀椀nd something within the 3-hour triangle between my kids’ homes,” he said.
Marty’s son, Jason, lives in Arlington and his daughter, Lori, lives north of Philadelphia.
They moved in 2013. Marty continued to work and they began to explore their new home. Marty was on the road frequently and knew the drive to the Salisbury airport like the back of his hand. When Karen was diagnosed with cancer, Marty stayed home more to take her to treatments. Just when they started thinking she was getting better, she passed away.
Marty was 65 and was facing a new reality. With Karen gone, he wasn’t sure how he could keep up his work and travel schedule with their two dogs at home. He decided it was time to retire.
“I didn’t know what I would do, so I decided to try retirement,” he mused.
Retirement did not come easy to Marty. “When I went into retirement, I had no idea what I was going to do. I didn’t really have any hobbies and I wasn’t involved in much at that point in Lewes.”
He decided he better get busy 昀椀nding something to keep him busy, so he started volunteering. The Historic Lewes Farmers Market welcomed him with open arms. He started helping by putting out the signs each week, then he greeted people as they
entered the market. Today he is on the Board.
Next, he started taking classes at OLLI where he also met others who volunteered with Historic Lewes. He now teaches and volunteers at OLLI, and volunteers with Historic Lewes.
Fans of Tavern Talks may remember Marty as one of the presenters. He also served as a docent at Ryves Holt House and the Cannonball House. Just this past month, Marty was serving as the bartender at First Friday dressed in historic garb.
He also found a passion for 昀椀lm and volunteered with Rehoboth Beach Film Society. He is now on the Board and on the committee for the Jewish Film Festival.
He also serves as treasurer for Friends of Canal Front Park and Highland Acres Tax Ditch.
As he continued to expand his friend circle, Diane was just on the periphery.
Diane grew up in Pennsylvania (Chester County) and attended Douglass College where she studied English and Theater. She continued on at Rutgers for her MBA and worked in fundraising for a theater.
She married and also worked in her late husband’s restaurant for a time.
She has two daughters: Ale lives in Annapolis with her husband and two sons, and Johanna and her partner live in Burlington, Vermont.
Diane met and married Peter when she was working in private education as a fundraiser. She knew about Lewes because her parents moved here in the 1990s and she spent time camping at Cape Henlopen.
She and Peter were living in New Jersey and Diane felt ready for a break after 23 years at a private school. She and Peter started considering a move to Lewes.
“I knew I wanted to continue working, but in a different area. That’s when I learned about a position at Beebe Medical Foundation,” Diane said. “I went and interviewed, fully thinking they would never hire this 62-year-old woman.”
However, it was meant to be and she got the job as a gift of昀椀cer with the Foundation. She and Peter found a home in Bay Breeze Estates and made the move to Lewes in 2016.
Her husband was diagnosed with cancer, so they went to Tunnell for his treatments.
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In 2021, Diane decided it was time to retire so she could spend more time with Peter who was not doing well. He passed away in 2021 – the same week she retired.
“I had been doing some volunteering with the Farmers Market, but it took me some time to really get out there,” Diane said.
During her grieving, she decided to take her experience and help others. She studied to be a death doula through the University of Vermont online. Realizing she enjoyed the classes, she took some classes at OLLI.
Her parents, who are now in their 90s, were involved in Historic Lewes, so Diane started volunteering there.
“As I told my story to others, people kept mentioning that I should talk to Marty Rosensweig,” Diane said. “I knew who he
was to say ‘Hi,’ but we had never really talked.”
It turns out, Marty had volunteered with Diane’s late husband in the back room at the Beebe Thrift Shop where they were in charge of checking used electronics to make sure they worked. Diane and Marty 昀椀nally met up for dinner, and the rest as they say is history.
“It really was like we lived this shared experience. We immediately had so much in common,” Diane said. “Our shared reality helps us value every day.”
Marty agreed. “It does help us 昀椀nd happiness in our every day,” he said. “Having someone to share my life with makes all the difference.”
The couple was married in a beautiful outdoor ceremony at the
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Historic Lewes campus in September.
When asked how this third marriage is different from the previous, the answer is simple. “We have all this past knowledge of how 昀氀eeting life can be, so it makes us really enjoy each moment,” Marty said.
Diane agreed. “My daughter points out that I am more gentle in this marriage and I think that is true. We don’t take the moments for granted,” she said.
Together, the couple has traveled to Chincoteague, Williamsburg, and Belize where they spent time in an eco-resort on an island 36 miles off the coast. They now volunteer together with Historic Lewes – both dressed in historic garb – and with the Farmers Market. And, they continue their participation at OLLI. Diane enjoys singing and dancing classes, and Marty enjoys the opportunity to participate in OLLI’s learning activities.
“Destiny brought us together,” Diane said.
“I think I’ve done a pretty good job 昀椀nding my way in retirement,” Marty said. “Enjoying the little moments and 昀椀nding happiness because you don’t know what the future will bring.”
Nominate your friendly Lewes Neighbor!
Email Rachel at rswick@bestversionmedia.com.
Sussex Academy Supports Families Through Giving Tree Project
Ellen Driscoll
For the 25th straight year, Sussex Academy students and staff have supported the needs of school families through its Giving Tree Project.
Since Sussex Academy’s founding in 2000, its teachers, nurses and counselors have worked together to identify eight to 10 families with students in the elementary, middle and high schools in 昀椀nancial need as Giving Tree recipients.
The Giving Tree provides essential basic needs including toilet paper, toothpaste and soap so that parents can direct their resources to gifts or a special holiday meal their families will enjoy.
This year, staff identi昀椀ed 12 families in need of assistance, the largest number of families served to date.
Sussex Academy’s student-led Interact Club members Morgan Leeper and Shannon McLaughlin helped advertise the project, count student Dress Down Day donations and sorted items.
Student Services teaching assistants Jenna Davis, Emma Mullen and Jayani Boopathi
decorated and delivered collection boxes and gathered and organized items.
The Sussex Academy Scrub Club, led by students Caitlin Redick and Kaylie Pederson, also assembled Brightness Bags for each Giving Tree Project student with personal items and other fun trinkets.
In addition to the Brightness Bags and Harry K Holiday Meal Boxes, each Giving Tree family received household goods and gift cards to Wal-Mart worth over $250. Gift cards were purchased with money collected from Dress Down Day and donations from Sussex Academy families and friends.
Head of School Kyle Bentley said community service is an important part of the Sussex Academy experience. "We could not be prouder of the student and teacher leaders for continuing this tradition of giving back to our community members in need during the holiday season,” Bentley said.
Giving Tree 1: Sussex Academy students (l-r) Jayani Boopathi, Jenna Davis and Emma Mullen stand behind a selection of items purchased through the school’s Giving Tree Project to bene昀椀t Sussex A
Giving Tree 2: The Giving Tree Project has been in place since Sussex Academy was founded in 2000. This year, students and staff provided necessary household items to 12 families in need of assistance, the largest number of families served to date.
Submitted by Pam Sorce and Joe Heisler
Mico is 9 1/2 years old. He is a medium Australian Labradoodle and he 昀椀rmly believes everyone he sees on his walks through Pilottown Village wants to pet him. He lives with his humans Pam Sorce and Joe Heisler.
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Friday, Feb. 7
Historic Lewes First Friday Community Nights
@110 Shipcarpenter Street, Lewes
Time: 4-7 pm
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Thursday, Feb. 13
Night at the Museum: Historic Lewes Speaker Series: A New View, The Daisey Family Legacy Photo Collection
Experience a taste of what Historic Lewes has to offer our community on First Fridays! Each month from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., visit the Sussex Tavern for a colonial-inspired beverage, stop into the Lewistown Coffeehouse for a taste of the Revolution, browse the Historic Lewes Antique Shop, listen to live music, take a tour, and enjoy stories from bygone times…all in the beautiful setting of our Historic Shipcarpenter Street Campus. Our community nights are FREE to attend!
Tuesday, Feb. 11
Faux Calligraphy Workshop
@Lewes Lettering Co.
Time: 5-7 pm
Tickets: $55
Join Katy, the owner of Lewes Lettering Co. to learn the basics of Faux Calligraphy! These workshops last about 1.5-2 hours and include instruction on how to use different pens, markers, etc. to create writing that mimics traditional calligraphy! All supplies included and provided upon arrival. Light snacks will be provided and attendees are welcome to BYOB! Registration required: www.lewesletteringcoshop.com/shop/ workshops/46.
DID YOU KNOW?
@Lewes History Museum, 101 Adams Ave. Time: 5-6 pm
Cost: $10 per person, all children under 12 are free
In April 2022, less than a year after his father’s November 2021 passing, Darryl and his siblings came into possession of a cache of old family photos, many of which were stored in an old gold colored can by their late great great Aunt Elsie Daisey Draine. In September 2022 Darryl began sharing hundreds of the photoson the “Memories of Lewes” Facebook page. Unbeknownst to him and his family, the photos offered a rare glimpse into the African American history of Lewes from the late 1800s through the 1960s and would be used to facilitate and enrich the completion of the “Voices Heard: The History and Legacy of the Black Community in Lewes” documentary and exhibit. Join us for this must-experience Speaker Series event presented by Darryl Daisey and learn about the history and legacy of the Black Community in Lewes.
The Zwaanendael Museum was built in commemoration of Delaware’s 昀椀rst European colony, Swanendael, established by the Dutch in 1631. The museum serves as a showcase Swanendael, established Dutch in 1631. The museum serves as a for the Lewes area ’ s maritime, military, and social history. This month, view the Shared for the Lewes area’s maritime, and social This month, the Shared Truths exhibit: An exhibition exploring the people who witness, shape, and record Truths exhibit: An exhibition exploring who witness, record Delaware history Delaware history.
The 昀椀rst person featured in this The featured in this exhibition, Kathy Carpenter, has exhibition, has been advocating for transgender been rights and community acceptance and acceptance throughout her life. In 2022, her life. In 2022, she donated a small collection of objects that commemorate of that commemorate the moment she won the title of moment won Miss Sussex County Amateur in Miss Sussex in 2000. On public display for the 2000. the 昀椀rst time, these objects celebrate 昀椀rst time, these celebrate her work in LGBTQ+ advocacy in her work in LGBTQ+ advocacy in Delaware Delaware.
Located on the ground 昀氀oor of Located on 昀氀oor of the museum. museum.
Image Courtesy of the Zwaanendael Image the Zwaanendael Museum
Wednesday, Feb. 19
Artifact Highlight Chat
@Lewes History Museum, 101 Adams Ave.
Time:1-2 pm
This virtual monthly event will highlight various artifacts from the Lewes Historical Society’s Collections, every third Wednesday of the month. Learn more: www. historiclewes.org.
Saturday, Feb. 22
Coastal Concerts presents Cuarteto Latinoamericano
@Bethel Church, Fellowship Hall, Lewes
Time: 2 p.m.
Tickets: $45, discounts for veterans, students, 昀椀rst responders
Purchase: www.coastalconcerts.org
Coastal Concerts brings world-class classical music to Lewes. The February concert features the 昀椀nal American tour for Cuarteto Latinoamericano who will present Mexico: A Musical Journey. Cuarteto Latinoamericano is one of the world’s most renowned string quartets and, for forty years, the leading proponent of Latin American music for the genre. Tickets are available online or at the door. Bring your friends!
February 27 - March 2
Clear Space Theatre presents EVERYBODY’s TALKING ABOUT JAMIE
@Clear Space Theatre, Rehoboth
Time: Varies by Date
Tickets: $50
Inspired by a true story, this sensational musical is full of heart and hope. At 16, Jamie New knows what he wants to be when he grows up: a drag queen. But in industrial Shef昀椀eld England, he has a mountain to climb to make his dreams come true. But with his loving mum, a steadfast teacher, and his friends on his side, Jaime overcomes prejudice, beats the bullies, and steps out of the darkness into the spotlight. Half off all box of昀椀ce proceeds bene昀椀t CAMP Rehoboth as part of the Clear Space Gives Back program!
Send your events to Rachel at rswick@bestversionmedia.com
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Lighthouse on the Shore Learning Center
33323 E. Chesapeake St. #37
Lewes, DE 19958
Operating hours: Mon-Fri 6am-5pm
Ages: children six weeks to five years old
302-827-2563
Philosophy and Goals
Lighthouse on the Shore Learning Center was customized to provide quality, loving care for children six weeks to five years old. We will provide a safe, positive and caring environment that is conducive to the child’s learning. We will utilize creative curriculum planning for all of our children. With this, a variety of culturally age-appropriate resources can be incorporated to create classroom activities that support our education philosophy and written comprehensive curriculum that is aligned with the Delaware Early Learning foundation for infants, toddlers and preschoolers enrolled. The sta recognizes the importance of balanced growth so they provide opportunities Lighthouse on the Shore Learning Center implements for mental, physical and emotional growth through a variety of creative experiences. Children are encouraged to learn and explore at their own speed in areas that interest them. We support parents as primary educators of their children. Lighthouse on the Shore Learning Center encourages parents to participate in the program activities such as: Helping in the classroom • Attending field trips • Review child(ren’s) learning plans and progress • Engage in learning activities at home with children• Help provide a safe and nurturing learning environment Stay connected in learning about child growth and development
Where History Meets Harmony:
The Best Contractor in the Area
Collaborating
On The Department of Government Efficiency
By Daniel A. White, CLU, ChFC, RICP - President and Founder of Daniel A. White & Associates, LLC
Donald Trump’s inauguration as the 47th U.S. President will be the start of major changes. Trump returns to Washington D.C. with a mandate to lower taxes, cut regulations, and trim the size and scope of government. With some concern, I hope any such changes keep our economy growing and avoid recession and in昀氀ation.
Trump has enlisted two successful business leaders, Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, to lead a new effort--The Department of Government Ef昀椀ciency. The goals of DOGE were outlined by Musk and Ramaswamy as cutting costs, reducing regulations, and reducing the physical size of the Federal work force.
How much inef昀椀ciency, waste, or fraud might there be in our $6.8 trillion annual Federal budget? How much government is overlapping or redundant? What are the bene昀椀ts of reducing government inef昀椀ciency and cost? For example, could reducing the budget de昀椀cit 昀椀nd the money needed to support Social Security and Medicare bene昀椀ts long term? Musk 昀椀rst said the annual Federal budget could be cut by $2 Trillion, while the of昀椀cial DOGE target is a $500 billion.
Even a $500 billion cut raises questions about negative consequences for our economy. If the government cuts spending $500 billion to $1 trillion, that has a ripple effect and reduces total spending 1½ to 2 times the amount of the cut. We do need to be careful.
The US gross domestic product (GDP) is $29 Trillion for 2024 so a $1 Trillion cut is more than a 3% reduction in GDP spending. If this happens quickly, it seems possible that such
a cut in spending could cause a recession. What if 100,000 out of 3 million Federal employees were laid off? Laying off even 50,000 people would be a substantial reduction in force and could also hurt the economy in the short run.
What is the bene昀椀t of cutting government spending? Borrowing less money to 昀椀nance an annual de昀椀cit must be better. Living within our means should reduce 昀椀nancial market risks and boost future economic growth. Reducing spending by government should ultimately increase spending by individuals and businesses throughout the country. These are good things.
Ef昀椀cient government and spending is a good thing, but we do not want to trigger negative consequences in the short run.
Some DOGE cuts Trump can do by executive order, but any big reductions will require the approval of Congress. For that reason, I don’t think DOGE can make big changes as quickly as they say. If they could, I would expect a recession. Not counting the quick Covid pandemic recession, our last recession was in 2008 and 2009. We do not want a recession. Recession might cause a bigger problem than those that DOGE is working to 昀椀x. I think we want better controls over Federal spending and budgeting. At the same time, we must have a growing economy in the long run. Without growth, we will be unable to pay our debts, afford our necessary government, or pay for our social welfare entitlements.
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Delicious Lip Scrub
Simple Sugar Lip Scrub
Whether you work from home or in an of昀椀ce, your skin’s appearance can sometimes determine how you feel about facing the day. If you are having a dull skin moment, treat yourself to a luxurious scrub or mask using things you have in your pantry!
This tasty scrub is great for polishing your lips or mixing into your tea! Make it for yourself or place it in a cute container to give it as a gift.
Note: This recipe follows a 1:1 ratio, if larger amounts are desired.
By Kat Beasley
Ingredients
1 Tbsp organic brown sugar
1 Tbsp organic honey
Directions
1. Mix equal parts honey and brown sugar in a small container and secure with a lid.
2. Refrigerate for a 昀椀rmer consistency.
To Apply:
1. Using your 昀椀nger, gather a small amount of the scrub.
2. Place the scrub on your lips while you slowly and gently rub the mixture in.
To Remove:
1. You can remove with a warm, wet washcloth or simply lick the mixture off of your lips!
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Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.
CJ NORTON
Submitted by Francoise Lemaire Benz | Courtesy of Sussex Academy
Meet CJ Norton, the phenom in the goal during Sussex Academy's soccer games. CJ helped take the Seahawks all the way to state championships two years in a row!
Some highlights about this Lewes athlete:
• First Team All-Conference
• First Team All-State
• Goalie of the State
• Top XL player ranking 5th Best Player in the State
• Regional All-American
For two years in a row, the state championship soccer game came down to penalty kicks with CJ playing an integral part of his team winning. He is the goalie and a captain for his team.
He also plays for Delaware Futbol Academy. During the summer, he is a lifeguard with the North Shores Beach Patrol.
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Take Your Athletics to the Next Level
By Connor Drislane, PT, DPT
Aquacare Athletics now offers sports medicine services at The Factory, providing comprehensive treatment and training to support athletes in reaching their peak potential.
Earlier this year,Aquacare launched PT PLUS, in-home mobile physical therapy that travels to a client’s home, workplace, pool, or 昀椀tness center. In similar fashion,Aquacare Athletics will bring quality physical therapy and sports medicine services directly to clients, sports teams, and athletes of all ages.
The 昀椀rst arm of this program launched December 2 and brings Aquacare Athletics into The Factory in Lewes.This partnership allows Connor Drislane, PT, DPT, to see patients at The Factory where he can provide a wide range of services from sports medicine to dry needling to golf performance therapy and more.
This new venture represents a signi昀椀cant milestone for Aquacare, offering tailored services designed to meet the unique needs of athletes while driving innovation in physical therapy and performance training.
The state-of-the-art facility will serve as the central hub for Aquacare's athletic and sports programs, expanding the company's reach and enhancing community impact.
"We are excited to embark on this transformative journey," said Cara Konlian, CEO of Aquacare Physical Therapy. "This partnership underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional care and fostering deeper community engagement across all our locations."
Drislane has years of experience in sports medicine and athletics.A graduate of Ithaca College, he played Division III football and worked as a personal trainer. He has completed McKenzie coursework, is a certi昀椀ed vestibular and concussion therapist, a certi昀椀ed Titleist Performance Instructor, and is certi昀椀ed in dry needling. Drislane has been with Aquacare for more than six years and also serves as the Regional Director, overseeing all six of the Delaware clinics.
Aquacare Athletics will provide comprehensive services that combine cutting-edge sports rehabilitation techniques with performance-focused training, supporting athletes of all levels in achieving their peak potential.
To schedule, call 443-359-0562.
What is Sports Medicine and Performance Enhancement?
Sports medicine is a specialized branch of healthcare that focuses on the unique physical demands, injuries, and performance optimization of athletes across various sports and activity levels.This multidisciplinary 昀椀eld combines medical expertise from orthopedics, physiology, nutrition, and rehabilitation to support athletes in maintaining peak physical condition and recovering from sports-related injuries.
At its core, sports medicine addresses the comprehensive health and performance needs of athletes, ranging from professional competitors to weekend enthusiasts. Medical professionals in this 昀椀eld work to prevent, diagnose, treat, and rehabilitate musculoskeletal injuries that occur during athletic activities.This includes everything from acute injuries like sprains and fractures to chronic conditions resulting from repetitive stress and overuse.
Performance enhancement is a critical component of sports medicine, involving strategies to improve an athlete's physical capabilities, endurance, strength, and overall athletic potential.This approach integrates advanced techniques such as biomechanical analysis, strength and conditioning programs, nutritional counseling, and personalized training protocols. Sports medicine professionals use cutting-edge
technologies like motion capture, advanced imaging, and data analytics to develop precise interventions that can help athletes optimize their performance.
Nutritional guidance plays a signi昀椀cant role in sports medicine, with specialists developing customized dietary plans that support training, recovery, and competitive performance.These plans consider an athlete's speci昀椀c metabolic needs, sport-speci昀椀c requirements, and individual physiological characteristics.
Injury prevention is another crucial aspect of sports medicine. Practitioners develop comprehensive screening programs, conduct risk assessments, and design targeted interventions to minimize the likelihood of athletic injuries.This proactive approach includes evaluating an athlete's biomechanics, muscle imbalances, and potential predispositions to speci昀椀c types of injuries.
Rehabilitation is equally important, with sports medicine professionals creating specialized recovery programs that not only heal injuries but also restore an athlete's full functional capacity.These programs often incorporate advanced techniques like manual therapy, specialized exercise protocols, and innovative treatments such as regenerative medicine and advanced physiotherapy.
As sports continue to evolve and become more competitive, sports medicine remains at the forefront of supporting athletes in achieving their maximum potential while maintaining their long-term health and well-being.
To learn more, go to www.aquacarephysicaltherapy.com. Follow Aquacare Athletics on Instagram.
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Bethany Travel: We Make It Look Easy
By Rachel Swick Mavity
Looking for a way to surprise your special someone for Valentine’s Day? What about a trip to a beautiful Sandals resort in the Caribbean or a lovely cruise?
If you have ever booked your own vacation, you know how dif昀椀cult and stressful it can be. The team at Bethany Travel makes it look easy, but there is a lot that goes on behind the scenes.
A recent travel group, for example, was bumped from a 昀氀ight. Unbeknownst to them, Bethany Travel swooped in, 昀椀xed the issue, and got them an upgrade!
“We are really here for our clients every step of the way,” said Cindy McCabe, owner of Bethany Travel. “We don’t stop after you are booked either; we are here to help any time of day during your trip in case you run into any issues.”
Bethany Travel has been serving customers in Sussex County since 2005. On any given day, the of昀椀ce is buzzing with clients coming in and out, agents meeting and greeting old and new friends, and phones ringing with new inquiries.
“Our agents are some of the best in the business,” Cindy said. “We have many who specialize in certain types of trips, such as cruises, Alaska, Europe, and of course Sandals resorts. Everyone here keeps the customer experience as their top priority.”
The team has been recognized with many awards, including:
• Top 10 Agency in the World selling Sandals & Beaches
• Top Club Agency for the Southeast Region
• Millionaire Club with Sandals & Beaches
• Best of the Best Agency
• Chairman’s Royal Club Elite Agent – Cindy
• Sandals Wedding Specialist: SILVER SWS STATUS 2024–Cindy
Cindy started out thinking this would be a part-time job
for her. She worked out of her house for several years before she got the opportunity to take over the existing Bethany Travel of昀椀ce. As she grew, she knew she wanted a more visible location, and she found the current of昀椀ce on Route 113 in Millsboro.
“I enjoy working with clients on all types of travel and feel my niche is planning honeymoons and destination weddings. I have personally visited every Sandals & Beaches Resort and feel by experiencing the resorts myself, I can qualify my clients for the resort that is perfect for them,” Cindy said. “I have also stayed at many other all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico as well as cruised many times, both on my own and as an escort for our large cruise groups. Being a travel agent is not just a job to me, it’s a passion!”
Hence the company mantra, “The internet is for looking; Bethany Travel is for booking!”
To learn more about Bethany Travel, go to www.bethanytravel. net or call 302-933-0955.
LEWES LOVER’S DREAM HOME!
Delaware Paid Family and Medical Leave Act: What Businesses Must Know
By Alison L. Houck Andrew, CPA
Delaware businesses are on the brink of a signi昀椀cant shift in workplace policy with the introduction of the Delaware Paid Family and Medical Leave Act (PFMLA). Signed into law in 2022, this landmark legislation aims to provide paid leave bene昀椀ts to eligible employees, ensuring they have the 昀椀nancial security to care for themselves or their loved ones during critical times. But what does this mean for businesses? Let’s break down the essentials.
What is the Delaware PFMLA?
The Delaware Paid Family and Medical Leave Act establishes a state-run insurance program designed to provide paid leave for:
Parental Leave: For bonding with a new child (birth, adoption, or foster placement).
Family Caregiver Leave: For caring for a family member with a serious health condition.
Medical Leave: For an employee’s own serious health condition.
Military Exigency Leave: For issues related to a family member’s military deployment.
Eligible employees can receive a portion of their wages for up
to 12 weeks within a 12-month period, depending on the type of leave.
Key Deadlines for Businesses
January 1, 2025: Employers with ten or more employees must begin collecting payroll contributions, if sharing the cost with employees.
January 1, 2026: Bene昀椀ts become available to eligible employees.
It’s crucial for businesses to prepare well in advance to ensure a smooth transition.
Who is Covered?
Employers: The PFMLA applies to businesses with 10 or more employees. However, smaller employers (10-24 employees) are only required to provide parental leave.
Employees: To qualify, employees must meet a minimum earnings threshold 1,250 hours during the "base period" (typically the previous four quarters) and have worked for their employer for at least 12 months.
What Steps Should Businesses Take?
Understand Contribution Requirements: Employers and employees may share the cost of the program through payroll deductions with a 50/50 share or employers can choose to fund the entire cost. Rates are determined annually by the Delaware Department of Labor.
Assess Your Workforce: Determine how many employees meet the eligibility criteria and understand which bene昀椀ts apply based on your business size.
Update Payroll Systems: Ensure payroll systems are equipped to handle the new contributions starting in 2025.
Educate Employees: Develop a communication plan to inform employees about their rights, bene昀椀ts, and responsibilities under the PFMLA. Notice must be provided to all eligible employees. Sample notices can be found on the website.
Review Existing Policies: Align your current leave policies with the new requirements. You may need to update employee handbooks and onboarding materials.
Consider Outsourcing or Self-Insurance: Businesses can either participate in the state plan or apply to provide equivalent bene昀椀ts through a private plan, subject to state approval.
Potential Impacts on Local Businesses
While the PFMLA is a win for employees, it presents challenges for employers, particularly smaller businesses:
Administrative Burden: Setting up payroll contributions and managing claims will require additional resources.
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Financial Impact: Shared contributions may strain tight budgets, especially for smaller employers.
Staf昀椀ng Adjustments: Businesses must plan for potential coverage during employee absences.
On the upside, offering paid leave can improve employee retention, attract talent, and boost morale, creating a more engaged and loyal workforce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can businesses opt out of the state plan? A: Yes, employers can apply to offer an equivalent private plan, provided it meets or exceeds the bene昀椀ts outlined in the PFMLA.
Q: What happens if my business doesn’t comply? A: Noncompliance can result in penalties, including 昀椀nes and back payments for missed contributions.
Preparing for the Future
The Delaware Paid Family and Medical Leave Act represents a signi昀椀cant change, but businesses can take proactive steps to prepare. By understanding the requirements, updating policies, and communicating with employees, you can minimize disruptions and position your business to thrive in a more employee-focused landscape.
If you have questions or need assistance navigating the PFMLA, consult with a trusted advisor or legal professional to ensure compliance and readiness for this new era of workplace bene昀椀ts.
Rehoboth Beach
Cuarteto Latinoamericano to Perform in Lewes During Last Tour
By Rachel Swick Mavity | Photo Courtesy of Coastal Concerts
Coastal Concerts proudly announces that Cuarteto Latinoamericano, one of the world’s most renowned string quartets, will perform in Lewes during the group’s 昀椀nal tour. The group will perform on Saturday, Feb. 22 at 2 p.m. in the fellowship hall at Bethel United Methodist Church in Lewes.
For 40 years, Cuarteto Latinoamericano has been the leading proponent of Latin American music for the genre. Founded in Mexico in 1982, the Cuarteto has toured extensively worldwide and premiered over a hundred works written for them. Winners of two Latin Grammy Awards for Best Classical Album, they also have been awarded the prestigious Diapason d’Or, have been recognized with the Mexican Music Critics Association Award, and have received three “Most Adventurous Programming” Awards from Chamber Music America/ASCAP.
Cuarteto Latinoamericano’s members are three Bitrán
brothers: violinists Saul and Aron and cellist Alvaro, with violist Javier Montiel. They have recorded over 100 albums, including nearly the entire Latin American repertoire for string quartets.
Formed in Mexico in 1982, Cuarteto Latinoamericano was, from 1987 until 2008, quartet-in-residence at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. Under the auspices of the Sistema Nacional de Orquestas Juveniles of Venezuela, the Cuarteto created the Latin American Academy for String Quartets, based in Caracas, which was active between 2008 and 2014. The Academy served as a training ground for 昀椀ve select young string quartets from the Sistema, groups that went on to lead active international careers.
Tickets for the February 22 performance are $45 for general admission, with discounts available for students, veterans, and 昀椀rst responders. Purchase tickets online at www. coastalconcerts.org.
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