INSIDE
TREESCAPES TREE EXPERTS
BRINGING EXPERT TREE CARE
MEET A HIGH SCHOOL SWIMMER MAKING WAVES IN THE POOL AND IN CLASS
AMERICAN LEGION AUXILIARY POST 17 POCKET FLAG PROGRAM
GARDENING: A RELAXING HOBBY WITH A PHYSICAL TWIST
LEWES Abraxas Hudson Paints the Soul of Lewes
COVER PHOTO BY DENY HOWETH
Alison Houck Andrew CPA, Managing Partner Faw Casson, Rehoboth Beach (302) 226-1919
alh@fawcasson.com | www.fawcasson.com
Alison Houck is a certified public accountant based in Sussex County. She is a University of Delaware graduate and was named as Best Accountant in Sussex County in 2014, Alison and was named as 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 of Ambassadors 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 of Ambassadors and Finance Committee for the Beebe Medical Foundation and the Board of Directors of Children & Families First of Delaware.
ESTATE
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 #1 real estate team in and has been in 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 Wilkinson Group in the NATION for Berkshire The Lee Ann Wilkinson should be your only call for superior service and outstanding results in real estate at the beach. in real estate 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 financial planning. We focus on addressing the distinctive financial needs of those nearing
Dan White & Associates was founded in and focus on needs retirement and those who have already retired. Today, Dan White & Associates houses five financial professionals between our three offices located in Glen Mills, retirement and those who have Dan White & Associates houses five located in Pennsylvania, Middletown, Delaware and Lewes, Delaware. As a member of Ed Slott’s Elite IRA Advisor Group and Gr SM Dan White trains with Ed Slott and his team of IRA Experts on of IRA a continual basis. They are immediately notified of changes to the tax code and updates on retirement planning, so you can be sure your retirement dollars are safe from a continual basis. They are immediately of changes on your dollars unnecessary taxes and fees. We work with our clients to construct a plan together that will give our clients a clear path toward a safe and secure retirement. At our firm, work with our clients a a safe and secure retirement. we take a different approach than most advisors by priding ourselves in the educational aspect of retirement planning. we take a approach than most advisors by priding ourselves in the educational aspect
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
Born and raised in Rehoboth, Ron and extensive his State Delaware, which established in 2012. A Salisbury University graduate with management experience at State Farm, Ron specializes in comprehensive protection, offering auto, home, established in 2012. A life, and business insurance, along with financial services throughout Sussex, Kent, New Castle, Wicomico, and Worcester counties. His bilingual team serves life, and business services New Castle, Wicomico, and serves the Milton, Lewes, Milford, Georgetown, and Harbeson communities with personalized attention in both English and Spanish. As an active community leader, Ron the in both 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 Yacht Club. His is proud to be a member of the Milton and Rehoboth Chamber of Beebe Medical Foundation, Dewey Lion's Club, and Lewes Yacht Club. His commitment to service extends to supporting local fire departments, Habitat for Humanity, Food Bank and various community initiatives. Whether you're a long- commitment to service extends Bank and time resident or new to the area, Ron's team is ready to help protect what matters most to you. time resident or new to the team is what matters most you.
Sean McMahon Vice President
16803 New Rd, Lewes, DE, United States, Delaware 302-645-1502 info@activpestsolutions.com activpestsolutions.com
We are a family-owned and operated company that focuses on environmentally sound pest solutions.to meet our customer's needs. Activ Pest Solutions provides We meet our customer's needs. Activ Pest an exceptional array of pest control services to maintain a pest-free environment, year-round, in your home or business. Offering both commercial and residential an exceptional pest control services to maintain a pest-free commercial and residential programs, we have a solution for you! Activ Pest Solutions has been serving the Delmarva region since 2000. we 2000.
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Chadd Miller at chaddmiller@bestversionmedia.com or (305) 519-4903.
LEWES NEIGH BORS
ADVERTISING
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Email: chaddmiller@bestversionmedia.com
Phone: 302-805-3928
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Rachel Swick Mavity Content Coordinator, Lewes Neighbors
The Artful Observer: Abraxas Hudson Paints the Soul of Lewes
By Rachel Swick Mavity
Photos by Deny Howeth and Courtesy of Abraxas Hudson
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Along the serene shores of Cape Henlopen, where waves rhythmically meet the Delaware coastline, Abraxas Hudson finds his muse. Known simply as "Brax" to locals, Abraxas has transformed his deep connection to this landscape into a lifelong artistic pursuit that captures the subtle interplay of light, shadow, and natural beauty that defines coastal Delaware.
Rooted in Lewes
"Cape Henlopen remains my favorite place in the world. I try to get there several times each week," says Abraxas, who grew up on Red Mill Pond in Lewes. His childhood was quintessentially coastal—running through neighborhoods with friends, fishing, playing baseball, and frequent visits to the state park that would later become central to his artistic vision.
"Lewes was quieter when I was growing up. Kids were more free range," he recalls with a hint of nostalgia. "Things were wilder then. We spent a lot of time in nature with no supervision. Our parents trusted us.”
This freedom nurtured a young boy who found solace in drawing from an early age. What began with pencil sketches evolved to watercolors, and eventually to the oil paintings that have become his signature medium "Through grade school, I would consistently draw. It helped calm me," Abraxas explains. By age 14, he was selling his artwork, and at 15, he participated in his first outdoor art show at St. Peter's in Lewes—an early indication of the path ahead.
The Western Sojourn
After graduating from Cape Henlopen High School, Abraxas chose an unconventional route. While many classmates headed to the University of Delaware,
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he discovered a six-week oil painting course in Washington State. With his parents' blessing—they have consistently supported his creative pursuits—he ventured west.
"I loved so much about living out West. So many of my paintings are inspired by the landscapes of the west, but of course I always come back to my roots of boats and bays," Abraxas says.
For nearly a decade, he traveled the West Coast, painting and teaching art classes. "I was lucky that I started receiving commissions right away. And I always felt the support of my parents and my hometown. I knew I wanted to paint and I knew I would always continue learning whether I went to a university or not."
The Homecoming
The call of home eventually brought Abraxas back to Delaware in 2004. He opened a gallery in Milton where he painted, taught classes, and sold his artwork. By 2010, drawn to the heart of his hometown, he relocated to 2nd Street in downtown Lewes.
Now, his days are spent painting in his gallery, engaging with regular visitors, connecting with neighbors, and—somewhat unexpectedly—advocating for medical research. Abraxas shared his inspiration for this, “During Covid, things didn’t seem right, so I knew I had to get involved. We built a team and started running events… We host doctors and scientists from around the world. These are brave, intelligent people who offer viewpoints that differ from the mainstream. They are often silenced and we like to hear what they have to say.”
As president of the Delaware Medical Freedom Alliance, Abraxas is engaged in projects locally, and nationally. Their group motto is simple: “where there is risk, there must be choice,” he explains.
Despite his travels for these health summits, Abraxas maintains a quiet life in Lewes. "I love living here because I can get into nature so quickly and easily Besides Cape Henlopen, I love going to all the beaches, inlets, and wildlife refuges that we have here."
The Artistic Process
For Abraxas, painting is "active meditation." Each canvas represents months of patient work, typically taking between two and six months to complete. He describes the process as "bringing light to darkness," always focusing on illuminating what might otherwise remain unseen.
Walking along the beach with Abraxas is a lesson in heightened observation. "I start looking at shadow and light. What's reflected o the surface of the water? What's underneath that causes white water to break up? Look at how the wave is darker, when it rises and blocks the sun, disrupting the light reflecting surface,” he explains, his artist's eye dissecting elements most would overlook.
Even a simple stick in the sand becomes a tool for understanding light direction and intensity—knowledge that translates to his meticulous compositions. "The more intense the light, the more distinct the shadows," he notes.
Abraxas's technical approach is equally distinctive: "I don't use white, grey or black paint, so rendering shadows through their constituent colors makes you think about things." This constraint forces him to see and reproduce the world's true colors rather than relying on shortcuts.
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The Deeper Purpose
Behind Abraxas's artistic practice lies a compelling personal motivation. "I was very shy; my father would say I was too shy to look in the mirror," he confesses. "Painting for me is a kind of conversation; I started early on because my verbal skills were inferior to my artistic skills. Art is my form of communication—that's what drives me."
This communication extends beyond mere representation. "I love nature. In painting, I can accentuate my finite parts of nature. I look at the world with such detail of attention that I discover things others miss," he says. "The artistic choice is deciding what stays and what to leave out. By digging into the science of the world around me, I can create a scene people can connect to. I need to share what I see with other people."
Abraxas credits his parents for their unwavering support and his local art teachers: Elaine Ippolito, Connie Miller, and John Gardoski, for encouraging him to pursue painting as a career. Their confidence helped shape a shy boy into an artist whose work now serves as a visual conversation with everyone who views it.
As the sun sets over Cape Henlopen, casting long shadows across the sand, Abraxas continues his patient work observing, interpreting, and sharing the coastal world through the lens of his uniquely attentive gaze. Each brushstroke connects viewers to the landscape he has loved since childhood, inviting them to see Lewes through the eyes of someone who has spent a lifetime learning its every subtlety of light and shadow.
Nominate your friendly neighbor to be featured in an upcoming issue! Email Rachel at rswick@bestversionmedia.com.
Treescapes Tree Experts: Bringing Expert Tree Care to Coastal Delaware
By Rachel Swick Mavity | Photos Courtesy of Treescapes
Treescapes Tree Experts has been enhancing properties for nearly 20 years and put down roots in Sussex County nearly 5 years ago. Founded by Mike Moran, a passionate arborist with deep roots in family business, and later joined by Monica Galvan, this tree service company combines professional expertise with personalized care.
A Business Rooted in Passion
"I've always had a love for the outdoors and a special interest in trees," says Mike, reflecting on his journey from a desk job at his family's Baltimore-based door and hardware company to launching Treescapes 18 years ago. "A friend in the business helped me get started, and I've never looked back."
Monica handles o ice management, billing, and scheduling, she describes herself as
Client-Centered Philosophy
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"We pride ourselves on our clients being happy," says Mike, who serves as the charismatic, frontfacing representative of Treescapes. "One of the most rewarding parts of my day is meeting new people, educating them on tree care and property safety, and assisting with their individual tree needs. There are issues everyone faces that they can't handle themselves."
This client-forward approach extends to every aspect of their business. "When people call, they get a person 99% of the time," Monica emphasizes. "It's important that clients can talk to someone directly. Our team is respectful and friendly, and service is our main goal."
Expert Eyes on Every Property
One of Treescapes' most valuable o erings is their free property evaluation and estimate service—a $300 value they provide at no cost. During these assessments, Mike applies his expert knowledge to identify issues that homeowners may overlook.
"People o en don't know what to do with trees planted too close to their homes," Monica notes. These trees can cause multiple problems: roots damaging foundation walls, driveways, and
sidewalks; branches rubbing against siding or shingles; lack of sunlight leading to mold growth; and dead wood attracting termites and carpenter ants that might migrate to the home.
"Anytime a tree has areas of dead wood, it becomes a cyclical problem—attracting insects, followed by woodpeckers, then other wildlife," explains Monica. "That's the beauty of our free property evaluation. Mike can put his experienced
eyes on things and give valuable advice."
Beyond Routine Maintenance
Beyond regular tree care, Treescapes Tree Experts provides crucial emergency services. They're available 24/7 for storm damage clean up, removing downed trees from homes or structures and are able to help clients navigate through insurance obstacles.
Sea, Ships, and History
By Rachel Swick Mavity | Photo Courtesy of Andrew Lyter
Meet Andrew Lyter of Historic Lewes
As a kid, Andrew Lyter’s favorite place was the Nantucket Whaling Museum. His family spent summers on Cape Cod and while other kids were biking and enjoying ice cream, there was no place Andrew would rather spend time than in the museum.
The son of a history teacher and a science teacher, Andrew comes by his love of research naturally.
He is a maritime historian and author, having published and been included in several published works.
A er graduating from West Chester University, he worked in the museum field in Philadelphia for a time before he tired of the commute.
His wife’s grandmother had a place in Rehoboth since the early days, so they came down this way to check things out. About 10 years ago, they made the move o icial.
Andrew started working with the state’s o ice of History and Cultural A airs and focused on the Zwaanendael Museum. He then started to volunteer with some education programs put on
by Historic Lewes and later came on to manage the Lewes History Museum.
Two years ago, he and his wife welcomed their son. Now, as a family man, Andrew put his PhD plan on pause and took on the role as executive director and co-curator of Historic Lewes. He restarted his PhD program this year and spent an exciting 10 days doing research in London.
“It seemed like a natural progression for me and I look forward to all the good work we do here,” he said.
As someone who feels most at home on the water, Andrew spends time sailing on the Kalmar Nyckel and is a member of a sailing group that races on the bay during the summer. He is most proud of the expanded activities that Historic Lewes has been able to take on, thanks to its cadre of 150 volunteers. First Fridays at the Tavern where bartenders and volunteers dress in historic garb have become especially popular. The group has an active events calendar even during the colder months. On any given day, one can stop by Shipcarpenter Square and see volunteers working on projects both inside the historic buildings and outside on the grounds.
Historic Lewes has many exciting events coming up, including the March 29 Cannon Ball, a gala held at Lewes Yacht Club; and the May 17 Shanty Fest as part of National Maritime Day. Volunteers are always needed to support Historic Lewes. Learn more and sign up: www.historiclewes.org.
American Legion Auxiliary Post 17 Pocket Flag Program
By Amanda Armstrong | Photo Courtesy of American Legion Post 17
The American Legion Auxiliary Post 17 in Lewes, Delaware, creates opportunities that all Americans can do to show respect and set positive examples of living as grateful, patriotic citizens. The Auxiliary also provides learning opportunities and instructional resources for important things every good citizen should know, such as learning about the Constitution and flying the flag on patriotic holidays. One mission that is very important to the Post 17 Auxiliary is The Pocket Flag Project.
The Pocket Flag Project was conceived in October 2001 when LuWanda Ford visited with fellow Boy Scout leaders who were veterans of the Vietnam and Gulf Wars. Both Scout leaders carried small, folded flags in their le shirt pockets and shared how important these flags were, and are, to them.
Inspired, Ford adapted the idea into a project for her Cub Scouts to develop patriotism and pride for our country while supporting our military troops. After folding and packaging 100 flags, the Scouts presented them to local Naval Reserve representatives. Her 9-year old son told an attending reporter that the flags were going “to all the soldiers in the war”. The
Pocket Flag Project has since grown into an international non-profit project.
In addition to learning about the United States flag and the sacrifices of our military, volunteers fold and package flags to send to our front line and deployed troops. Included with each flag is a card that says: “A flag for your pocket so you can always carry a little piece of home. We are praying for you and we are proud of you. Thank you for defending our country and our freedom.” There is room on each card for volunteer groups to include a personal message or return address for thank you notes.
American Legion Auxiliary Post 17 has made it their mission to go out into the community to educate groups such as Girl and Boy Scout Troops and school children on the Pocket Flag Project. It is their goal to get as many pocket flags as they can into the pockets of our deployed troops. The flags serve as a pocket full of home, hope, love and support. Unit 17 Auxiliary members are often at the Deployment Ceremonies of the Delaware Army National Guard to give pocket flags to the Army Reserve Units at their deployments.
Two Delaware Army National Guard soldiers receive their pocket flags.
Grocery Outlet Bargain Market: A Treasure Hunt for Savvy Shoppers
By Rachel Swick Mavity | Photo by Rachel Swick Mavity
In the competitive landscape of Rehoboth Beach retail, Grocery Outlet Bargain Market stands out with its unique business model and community-focused approach. At the helm is Bridgette Jarrett, a seasoned retail professional whose entrepreneurial journey has brought Delaware's only Grocery Outlet to this popular coastal town.
From Store Manager to Business Owner
With more than 20 years of experience as a store manager for major retailers like Food Lion and Walmart, Bridgette Jarrett has always harbored an entrepreneurial spirit. Growing up in Hurlock, Maryland, she developed a fascination with business operations from a young age.
"I'm kind of a perfectionist and like to learn and work my way back up," Jarrett explains, reflecting on her career journey. This drive for excellence and understanding what makes businesses successful prepared her for her current role as an LLC owner of The Grocery Outlet in Rehoboth Beach.
A Unique Business Model
Grocery Outlet operates through an innovative LLC partnership model that allows local entrepreneurs to partner with the parent company to open independently owned stores. When Jarrett learned about this opportunity to become a business owner while maintaining support from an established brand, she eagerly pursued it.
"I like how this company engages with its owners and allows us to give back to the community," she says of the arrangement that combines entrepreneurial freedom with corporate backing.
Originally founded in California, Grocery Outlet has expanded to multiple states including Maryland and Pennsylvania. The Rehoboth Beach location holds the distinction of being Delaware's only Grocery Outlet store, bringing its unique retail concept to Sussex County shoppers.
The T.J. Maxx of Grocery Shopping
Jarrett describes her store with an apt comparison: "We are like the TJMaxx of grocery stores – it's like a treasure hunt." This aptly captures the shopping
Grocery Outlet Bargain Market
Grocery Outlet Market
18910 Rehoboth Mall Blvd, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
(302) 727-0907
Open daily: 8 AM–9 PM
groceryoutlet.com/circulars/storeid/742
experience at Grocery Outlet, where inventory changes weekly based on available deals.
"We are not a traditional grocery store. We are able to get products at a discount," she explains. "What we tell customers is to come here first and get the best deals on the items we have that week. Then you get the best prices even if you have to finish shopping somewhere else."
Each week, Jarrett carefully plans her inventory based on supplier availability, customer requests, and popular items. She sources products from warehouses in both Pennsylvania and California, creating a diverse and ever-changing selection that keeps shoppers coming back to discover new bargains.
Community Impact
Beyond the business aspects, Jarrett finds particular fulfillment in Grocery Outlet's community engagement. The store has established partnerships with local organizations including the Milton Food Pantry and Epworth Food Pantry. Last year alone, Jarrett's store donated more than 55,000 pounds of food to help address food insecurity in the region.
As a seasonal destination, Rehoboth Beach presents unique staffing challenges that Jarrett navigates adeptly. Currently employing 18 team members, she plans to expand her workforce during the busy summer months to accommodate increased tourist traffic.
Having previously vacationed in Sussex County herself, Jarrett understood the area's potential and was excited to establish her business in the beach community. Now, she's becoming an integral part of Rehoboth's retail landscape while offering residents and visitors alike a different approach to grocery shopping.
Photo of Bridgette Jarrett in the Rehoboth Grocery Outlet.
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“Ihavepersonalunderstandingofbeingdifferently
Depending
Providing
May 3 – 25
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Peninsula Gallery hosts “Traveling Palette” Exhibition and Artist Reception
@Peninsula Gallery, Lewes
Times: 2 pm, 7 pm
Learn more by visiting Peninsula Gallery, 520 East Savannah Road, or call 302-645-0551.
Saturday, May 3
Lewes British Motorcar Show
@Lewes Terminal, Cape May-Lewes Ferry
Time: 11 am to 3 pm
The British are coming again! his great event is cosponsored by the Lewes Chamber of Commerce and the British Car Club of Delaware and will welcome a wide array of classic British vehicles. The Lewes Chamber of Commerce and the British Car Club of Delaware are co-sponsors of the show. It will be held at the Lewes Ferry Terminal, 43 Cape Henlopen Drive, with no spectator entry a er 2 pm. The show is supported by Southern Delaware Tourism.
Changing Seasons and Historical Traditions
@Zwaanendael Museum
Time: 11 am to 3 pm
Learn about the changing seasons and historical traditions – a presentation will be followed by the opportunity to make a unique, nature-based cra . Contact the Zwaanendael Museum for more details: call 302-645-1148 or email zmuseum@delaware.gov.
Southern Delaware Food and Wine Festival
@Schellville, Rehoboth
Time: 12 – 3:30 pm
Delaware’s most indulgent wine, food and music festival with 20+ top restaurants, 100+ wines, cra beer & cocktails, 2 bands, bourbon tasting, silent auction, wine wall, live artist demonstration(and auction) & more. Having a great time while pouring vital proceeds into local non-profits! Beneficiaries this year are Sussex County Habitat for Humanity and the Harry K Foundation. Tickets are on sale at www.sodelfest.com.
SDTR’s Kentucky Derby Day Watch Party
@Southern Delaware Therapeutic Riding
Time: 4:30 - 7:30 pm
Southern Delaware Therapeutic Riding’s Kentucky Derby Day Watch Party at 17170 Harbeson Road, Milton. Enjoy a Watch Party on a large screen, heavy hors d’oeuvres and an assortment of drinks, including the famous Mint Juleps, auction, raffles and more! Visit www.sdtrhr.com for information and tickets.
Sunday, May 4
Water Family Fest & Native Plant Sale
@James Farm Ecological Preserve Time: 10 am to 2 pm
Free and family-friendly. The event features “feet-wet, hands-dirty fun,” outdoor recreation and educational opportunities, multiple exhibits,
live music, food trucks, and a native plant sale. Come out to the James Farm Ecological Preserve, 30048 Cedar Neck Road, Ocean View. For more information visit www.inlandbays.org.
Saturday, May 10
National Train Day
@Red Caboose, next to Lewes Public Library In 2025, we’ll be honoring the completion of the transcontinental rail line on the actual date of its occurrence, May 10. Mark your calendar to join us and our neighbors, the Lewes Public Library and Lewes History Museum, for a potpourri of tours, displays, and presentations, including the third annual ceremonial driving of the gold spike! More details to come.
Saturday, May 17
Wheels for Meals — Meals on Wheels’ Jack O’Hollaren Annual Bike Ride
@Hudson Field, Milton Register: www.bikereg.com/mowlr
Enjoy beautiful rural Sussex County while riding in the 2025 Wheels for Meals event! This fully supported ride to accommodate all: a 10-mile family ride, 25, 40, 50 & metric century, begins and ends at Hudson Field where you’ll enjoy a delicious barbeque chicken lunch, tasty beverages, great live music and incredible door prizes.
SAVE THE DATE
Saturday, May 17 17
2025 Lewes Maritime Day 2025 Lewes Maritime
@Canalfront Park Park
Time: 11 am – 3 pm Time: 11
Hustle for the House
@Big Oyster Brewery, Lewes
Time: 8 am
Hustle for the House Run/Walk to benefit the Ronald McDonald House will step o at 9 am. Registration opens at 8 am. Learn more: www.rmhcdelaware.org/hustle.
Sunday, May 18
DQ Dash
@Dairy Queen, Lewes Benefits Go Fourth fireworks!
Thursday, May 22
Canalside Happy Hour
@Lightship Overfalls, Canalfront Park
Time: 5 pm
Live music and fun. Learn more at www.overfalls.org
Monday, May 26
Veterans Memorial Project Dedication Ceremony
@Cape Henlopen State Park
Join us for the Veterans Memorial dedication, where engraved bricks will be unveiled. If you order your brick before May 13, it will be in place for the dedication. Organized by Race4Warriors. Bricks honor those who served or lost their lives in the Middle East. Learn more and order bricks: leweschamber.com on the Events calendar.
Celebrate America’s Proud Maritime History! And Sail on the AJ Meerwald. Lewes,
Celebrate America’s Proud Maritime And Sail on the known as the First Town in the First State, enjoys a heritage that is rich in both its known as the First Town in the First State, a that is rich in both it maritime history and its current maritime interests. Sail aboard AJ Meerwald from the maritime history and its current maritime interests. Sail aboard AJ the Lewes waterfront and/or on a History Happened Here Cruise. Journey back through Lewes waterfront and/or on a Here the centuries with Cape Water Taxi into Lewes’ maritime past. See the full schedule and the centuries with Water Taxi into Lewes’ See the full schedule ticketed events information under the Events tab at leweschamber.com
CALENDAR
Saturday, May 31
Rally for Our First Responders
@Hudson Field, Milton Time: 12 pm (doors open 11:30 am)
Join us for live music, children’s activities, food trucks, vendors, a car show, live auction, 50/50 raffle, and more! Attendees will also enjoy displays and demonstrations featuring vehicles, K9 units, aviation, and specialty equipment from fire, rescue, EMS, and police organizations. Tickets can be purchased at the gate. Prices are: $10; children 12 years and under are free and First Responders are free.
Tuesday, June 3
Lewes Summer Concert Series Begins
@Stango Park (behind Lewes History Museum) Time: 7 pm
The Lewes Summer Concert Series begins on June 3 at Stango Park, with a rain location at Cape Henlopen High School. The concerts are free to the public and familyfriendly. We welcome you to bring a chair or blanket, snacks, drinks, and your love of music. Oh, and dancing is encouraged! Sign up for event reminders: www.ci.lewes.de.us.
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The first concert features Roger Girke and the Wandering Souls.
Wednesday, June 4
Overfalls Family Program
@Lightship Overfalls, Canalfront Park
Time: 10 am 12 pm
Learn more: www.overfalls.org
Friday, June 6
First Friday
@Lewes Historical Society Time: 7 pm
Every month The Lewes Historical Society welcomes locals and visitors alike to our Historic First Fridays. The Sussex Tavern comes alive as history interpreters dressed in period garb share fascinating tales and ales from the past. Visit the Lewistown Co ee house for a taste of the Revelation, browse the Historic Lewes Antique Shop, listen to music, take a tour, all in the beautiful setting of our Historic Shipcarpenter Street Campus. Admission to the LHS Campus and its historic structures is FREE on First Fridays! At First Friday, around the fire pit, you can learn about our exciting history from sta sharing tall tales at 4:30, 5:30, and 6:30 pm.
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BY CHRISSIE MAUGHAN
GRETCHEN MAUGHAN
is a freshman at Sussex Academy and an honor roll student. She has been passionate about sports, particularly swimming, since joining her first team at the age of four. Gretchen competes for Sussex Academy, where she was the Henlopen Conference Champion in both the breaststroke and the 200 IM. She also earned 3rd place in the Delaware High School Championships for the breaststroke. In addition to her school team, Gretchen swims with the SFY Tsunamis and will travel to Greensboro, NC, to compete in the YMCA Nationals this April. When she’s not in the pool or on the field, Gretchen enjoys attending concerts, exploring her love of music, spending time with her family, and traveling during the summer.
Balancing her dedication to academics and athletics, Gretchen exemplifies what it means to be a hardworking student-athlete. She aspires to pursue a career in medicine and is considering the possibility of swimming at the collegiate level.
COURTESY OF CHRISSIE MAUGHAN
So many Lewes residents messaged me last month with the exciting news that Cape's own Mason Fluharty was called up to the Big Leagues to play for the Toronto Blue Jays against the Baltimore Orioles. Lewes is so proud of you, Mason!
SUBMITTED BY MANY LEWES RESIDENTS
Shown are Lynn and Mason Fluharty.
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Skylar Jamele, Future Star
By Connie Jamele | Photos Courtesy of Connie Jamele
Skylar Paige Jamele is a sophomore at Cape Henlopen High School and is sure to be a future star.
Skylar has a 4.1 GPA, is a member of National Honor Society, National Thespian Society, member of Cape Chorale, and continues to show kindness and humility in all she does. She has appeared in many local theater productions at Milton Theatre and Possum Point Playhouse. She also appeared in Cape High's recent production of Chicago.
Skylar was recently a Broadway Blaine theater program with Broadway stars this summer in NYC!
Sussex Academy students shine in Science Olympiad
By Ellen Driscoll
For the first time, Sussex Academy participated in the Delaware Science Olympiad at Cab Calloway School of the Arts March 1, with one team placing sixth in the Ecology event.
STEM teacher Tim Elmer advises the school’s new Science Olympiad club, which was launched by students Noah Benz, Matthew Perchiniak and Keenan Williams.
Matthew said he started looking into Science Olympiad a er his father told him he participated in the event while a high school student.
“In researching it more, I thought it would be a good opportunity to bring it back to Sussex Academy,” Matthew said. “Keenan Williams, Noah Benz and I worked together to bring the team back with the significant help of Mr. Elmer as our coach.”
The hard work paid off, as Keenan and Matthew placed sixth in the Ecology event, which tested students on various topics including environmental policy, pollution and carbon cycle.
Other student finishes included Ben Steimel and Sarah Lester-Stranick, 12th in Disease Detectives; Natalia Gatti and Eva Navitskaya, 13th in Astronomy; Keenan Williams and Sarah Lester-Stranick, 13th in Forensics; Noah Benz and Owen Schrader, 15th in Geologic Mapping and 16th in Chem Lab; and Jack Thomas, 16th
in Optics. Other notable finishers at the State Competition included George Sapna, Liam Stegall and Isabella Nguyen.
Students have already started to plan for next year's competition and look forward to moving up the final rankings list, including adding building events to their schedule, Matthew said.
“This experience was a first for all students and me,” Elmer said. “Our students were very excited to participate and scope out the events for next year.”
and Matthew Perchiniak. In front are Sarah Lester-Stranick, Isabella Nguyen, Natalia Gatti, Eva Navitskaya, George Sapna, Owen Schrader, Ben Steimel, Liam Stegall and Jack Thomas.
The team plans to hold future fundraisers to support the purchase of materials needed for next year's build events.
Sussex Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Georgetown, Del. Its mission is to foster academic achievement and social responsibility in a small school environment where students participate in a highly accelerated college preparatory program that prepares them for the technological and global mindedness needed for the 21st century and that instills ethical conduct and service to others in their day-to-day lives.
Photo Courtesy of Ellen Driscoll
The Sussex Academy Science Olympiad team competed at the Delaware Science Olympiad at Cab Calloway High School March 1. Gathered in back (l-r) are Keenan Williams, Noah Benz
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Rescuing Chinola
By Lauren and Brendan Wiggins | Photos by Lauren Wiggins
Our latest family vacation had a dual purpose: Operation Chinola Rescue!
Since 2022 this little feral calico cat has been hanging around our Dominican house. She is the most a ectionate cat I have ever met, and used to come by with her kittens. Sarah named her Chinola (meaning passion fruit, a favorite local ingredient) and every time we went to DR asked “can’t we bring Chinola home? She wants to be a pet!”
Chinola claimed our patio as her home turf to mostly positive reviews from our guests “love the cat!” “Best part was the sweet cat!” But of course her need for attention mixed with a penchant for stealing unattended chicken dinners was not always welcome. Then in December I saw the post below on the “Amigos of Las Terrenas” page and I instantly recognized Chinola. I knew she was not anyone’s pet cat as she had been living on my patio for years and obviously we don’t live in DR. Thankfully the local vet Coco Dogs runs a yearly spay and neuter campaign for the feral animals and I
assume Chinola got spayed that way. When no one responded a er a couple of days I reached out. The nicest woman (who also rescued a tripod dog o the beach) had been feeding Chinola, but as she is a Canadian snowbird she would be headed home in the spring. Chinola would be le to surviving on lizards and bugs again. Chinola’s numerous scars showed she had a tough time being such a tiny cat and holding her own among the other stray dogs and cats that populate this beach area. We teamed up and did a bunch of research- she brought the cat to the vet and got her vaccinated and microchipped and secured a pet passport. I had to get Chinola through the animal export o ice and onto a flight. We caught Chinola on Friday night at midnight and brought her inside. She was very confused by the whole “indoors” concept. Then she went on a 14 hour ordeal of cars/airport/ plane/train where she mewed the whole time, but in the end Chinola is finally a pet cat. She has adapted very well and has spent her first day as a US citizen making biscuits and purring.
Lemon Chicken Kalamata
By Denise Clemons
This tasty chicken dish includes a bed of fresh baby spinach and the bright tang of capers and lemon.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 sliced lemon
1 sliced onion salt and pepper, to taste
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves flour
2/3 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon drained capers
1/4 cup sliced Kalamata olives (pitted)
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375 F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Arrange the lemon slices in a single layer, turning to coat both sides with oil. Scatter onion slices on lemons and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for 25 minutes.
When lemon edges are barely browned, remove pan from oven and set aside. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, deep skillet. Season chicken on both sides with and salt pepper; dust with flour and shake o excess. Place chicken in pan and cook over medium heat until golden, turning once, about 4 minutes each side.
Pour in the stock and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in capers and olives and bring to a boil; cook until liquid is reduced by half. Add lemons and onions; adjust seasonings, and simmer until chicken is cooked through.
Serve on a bed of blanched baby spinach or arugula garnished with cilantro.
Yield: 4 servings.
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Gardening: A Relaxing Hobby with a Physical Twist
By Melinda O'Bier, PTA, Aquacare Physical Therapy
Gardening is a wonderfully therapeutic activity, o ering a chance to enjoy nature, get fresh air, and even sneak in some exercise. However, it also requires a lot of bending, stretching, reaching, and repetitive movements—actions that can easily throw o your balance or strain your muscles if not done properly. Whether you’re planting flowers, trimming bushes, pulling weeds, or tending to your lawn, it’s easy to overlook the physical demands gardening places on your body.
Aquacare Physical Therapy, with two locations in Lewes, wants to support you and help you prevent injury by giving tips on e ective stretching, posture, foot positioning, and proper form while kneeling and squatting.
Stretching and Warming Up for Gardening
While gardening may seem like a low-intensity activity, it can put strain on muscles and joints you don’t use regularly. To avoid injury and maximize comfort, it’s important to start with some gentle stretches and mobility exercises to activate the key muscles involved. Begin by loosening up your neck. Gently turn your head from side to side and up and down, repeating each movement ten times. Since gardening involves a lot of forward, flexed motions, it’s a good idea to counterbalance this by doing backward shoulder rolls or shoulder squeezes. This helps open up your chest and shoulders.
Next, sit at the edge of a non-rocking chair, straighten one leg, and gently reach for your toes until you feel a stretch in the back of your leg. Hold this for 30 seconds to a minute to lengthen those hamstrings. Finally, before standing up, complete ten ankle rolls clockwise and ten counterclockwise to get the blood flowing and prepare your feet for action.
By incorporating these simple stretches, you can get your body ready for gardening and reduce the risk of strain or injury while you dig in
Maintaining Good Posture and Foot Positioning
Proper posture is key to maintaining balance while gardening. Slouching or hunching over can throw o your center of gravity and increase your risk of injury.
When standing or bending, keep your feet shoulder-width apart, engage your core muscles, and avoid arching your back. Keep your chest open, and imagine a string pulling you upward from the top of your head. This
helps distribute your body weight evenly and promotes a balanced, stable stance.
Gardens are o en full of uneven surfaces, so it’s essential to be mindful of where you place your feet. Uneven ground can quickly cause you to lose your balance. When standing or kneeling, place your feet firmly on the ground and try not to rock forward or backward. Avoid standing on slippery or unstable surfaces like wet soil or rocks. You can also use your hands for extra stability when moving across challenging ground, such as large stepping stones or uneven patches.
Proper Form for Kneeling and Squa ing
To prevent strain or injury, it’s crucial to be mindful of your form when kneeling or squatting. Bending over to tend to plants can be tough on your knees and lower back, so it’s helpful to use proper technique.
When kneeling, consider using a so pad or gardening knee cushion to reduce strain on your knees. Keep one foot flat on the ground and bend the other knee to rest on the ground before transitioning onto the pad. For
squatting, keep your feet flat on the ground, with your knees behind your toes. Engage your glutes and core for extra support, and keep your back straight. Alternating between kneeling and standing can also help avoid staying in one position for too long.
Taking Breaks and Staying Hydrated
As with any physical activity, it’s important to be aware of your limitations to stay safe. To prevent fatigue, which can negatively impact balance, take frequent breaks. Stand up, stretch, and walk around every 20-30 minutes to improve circulation and reset your posture. And remember, especially on warmer days, hydrate regularly to keep your muscles functioning properly!
Gardening is a fantastic way to connect with nature, but maintaining balance is essential to avoid injury and ensure you can continue enjoying this hobby for years to come. By following these simple balance tips—warming up, paying attention to body mechanics, and taking breaks as needed—you can make your gardening experience safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable.
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What is Rewilding?
By Nina Melillo
According to Rebecca Wrigley a chief executive of Rewilding Britain, rewilding means “a large-scale restoration of ecosystems that reinstates natural processes to the point where nature can take care of itself, meaning everything from ensuring rivers are free-flowing to restoring ‘natural levels’ of herbivores and predators”.
The act of restoring natural processes, hence restoring the earth’s biodiversity, is based on three components. First, ensuring there are enough predators and decomposers throughout the food chain to sustain themselves. Second, make connections between ecosystems so they can easily move from one area to the next. And thirdly, allowing natural occurences to occur such as floods and fires for wildlife to build resilience to these “natural disasters”. This allows for a balance of species so one doesn’t dominate the others.
How to Rewild
On a large scale scientists have been performing long range experiements in nature to see whether rewilding can help restore ecosystems. Their results have been promising, however, some controversy exists. For example adding predators in and around grazing areas. Below are some techniques being implemented to accomplish this.
1. Bringing Back Animals
Reintroducing wild animals can help maintain balance and also help with natural disasters. For instance, reinstating large predators such as wolves will help balance deer populations. Introducing beavers to creeks and rivers will naturally create dams to prevent flooding.
2. Planting Trees
Vegetation absorbs carbon. Excessive carbon dioxide in the air creates a greenhouse e ect, which traps the heat in the atmosphere causing
rising air temperatures. Rising temperatures create shi s in weather patterns causing extreme weather such as droughts and larger and stronger storms (hurricanes/typhoons/blizzards, etc).
Planting trees throughout cities helps reduce rising temperatures in urban areas. In more rural areas, it’s best to allow for natural reseeding of trees to occur. This will promote diversity in species which maintains balance in ecosystems.
3. Sca ering Native Wildflower Seeds
Again, vegetation absorbs carbon from the air. Many places have opted to scatter wildflower seeds along highways and in fields. This will not only restore the natural flora but also the natural fauna including pollinating insects which are crucial to agriculture.
Rewilding and Everyday Gardeners
You’re probably wondering how, as a typical gardener, you can help ecosystems return back to their natural state.
By following some of the suggestions below we can help reduce carbon, moderate temperatures in urban areas, create habitats for pollinators, and encourage movement between patches of habitats through connecting them in our communities. This is only one aspect of how we can help, but every little bit helps.
1. Native Plants
Native plants create natural ecosystems for your area. Click here to find specific plants for your location. Shop from local nurseries that sell naturally occuring plants rather than from big box stores. Big box stores import exotic plants from throughout the world that, if planted, will not help maintain native ecosystems.
2. Wildflower Garden
If you have some land that is covered with
grass, till the grass under and scatter wildflower seeds that are native to your area. You’ll have constant color and will not have the burden of maintaining a lawn.
3. Local Species of Milkweed
Butterflies feed on milkweed. They also lay their eggs on it. Be sure to purchase local milkweed and do not cut down the stalks in the fall or early spring. The stalks may contain eggs that will form into crysali and then butterflies. It also provides food for the emerging butterfy.
4. Fill Patio and Balcony Boxes and Pots With Native Plants
If you do not have a large plot of land to work with, adorn your pots with native plants. You will be amazed at how many pollinators, including hummingbirds, you will attract. Remember, hummingbirds like tubular flowers into which they can tuck their long beaks to suck out the nectar.
5. Native Grasses
According to Openlands, “native grasses have deep roots that make them drought-resistant, reduce soil erosion and flooding, filter pollutants from groundwater, and increase rainwater infiltration”. They also store carbon in their roots a er absorbing it from the air.
6.
Incorporate Native Trees Into Your Property
This helps your property become more resilient to floods since they have long tap roots that absorb water and will not blow over easily in wind storms.
Read the full article at Best Gardening for Beginners by Nina Melillo: https://bestgardeningforbeginners.com.
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Learning
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
Since 2012, our customers have provided us with overwhelming positive feedback that our Tick Abatement program has been incredibly effective. In an effort to expand our program & recruit additional Delaware Residents who desire to enjoy their outdoor environment, we are offering preseason
Lighthouse on the Shore
Center