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.
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 REAL ESTATE
#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
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.
INSURANCE PEST CONTROL
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 N EI G H NEIGH B O RS BORS
ADVERTISING
Contact: Chadd Miller
Email: chaddmiller@bestversionmedia.com
Phone: 302-805-3928
FEEDBACK/IDEAS/ SUBMISSIONS:
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 click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas and photos to: rswick@bestversionmedia.com.
HOA SUBMISSION INFORMATION
Are you on the association board for your subdivision? Contact us for information on how you can submit articles, updates, reminders, events and more to the residents. We create customized homeowners association sections at no cost to the HOA or the residents.
As the winter season settles in, it’s a beautiful time to savor the charm of our beach town without the summer crowds.There’s something magical about Lewes in the quiet months—taking a peaceful stroll along Second Street, hearing the seagulls over a calm bay, and sharing cozy evenings at local spots that always make us feel at home.These are the moments that remind us how lucky we are to live in this incredible community.
We’re also fortunate to have the support of our fantastic sponsors, who make Lewes Neighbors possible.Without their partnership, we wouldn’t be able to bring you the content and connections that celebrate our vibrant town. Please show them some love whenever you can—they are truly essential to our success.
And here's some exciting news: we’ve expanded into the digital world! In addition to our print publication, you’ll now spot Lewes Neighbors and our sponsors across digital platforms. Keep an eye out for their messages and support them whenever possible.
Wishing you a wonderful and peaceful winter season here in beautiful Lewes! Warmly,
When Muriel Pfei er moved here in 1999 from Long Island with her late husband, Van, she knew she wanted to get involved in the community.
Not one for sitting at home, Muriel found the Zwaanendael Women’s Cluba ectionately known at the Z Club - in Lewes.
“I had belonged to a women’s club in Long Island, so I knew this was something I wanted to find here,” Muriel said. “The group really became a home for me. I am one of the longest (living) serving members.”
Muriel recently celebrated her 25th year with the Z Club. Over the years she has served twice as president plus served on many committees.
“The thing I love about being a part of a women’s club is getting involved and giving back to the community,” she said. “We do so many di erent projects that help our neighbors and local organizations.”
In addition to the Z Club, Muriel also belongs to the Women’s Club of Indian River.
Some of her favorite projects in these clubs include donating to the Home of the Brave, Stockings for Soldiers, hosting the annual Geranium sale, and participating in the Victorian Tea fundraisers.
Muriel has fond memories of meetings at the former Z Club clubhouse. The brick building at the corner of Third Street and Savannah Road was sold last year. The Delaware Community Foundation purchased the historic building and plans to have o ices there.
“The Z Club is where I made so many friends, which was important for me when I moved here not knowing anyone,” she said.
The friendships have become even more important in the past years a er
Muriel’s husband, Van, passed away.
“A er he died, so many people just showed up to help me,” Muriel said. “It was really just amazing to see how much people loved him and me and were ready to support me.”
Her husband was known locally as Van the Music Man for his fun musical performances at local bars and restaurants.
At a recent Z Club luncheon at The Peninsula, Muriel was honored and received her 25-year pin. She reminisced about all the projects over the year, saying she especially enjoyed Federation Day when the women would head up to Harrington for a special celebration.
As a part of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, the Z Club, participates in local but also national events, such as Federation Day.
Today, the General Federation of Women's Clubs (GFWC) is made up of more than 60,000 members who are committed to making a di erence through volunteer work and community service projects.
Travel and Camaraderie
Growing up in Patchogue, New York, Muriel recalls a simpler time. She enjoyed riding bikes, swimming, and hanging out with friends.
Her father worked for the Long Island Railroad, so the family was able to enjoy regular trips across the country on the train. To date, Muriel has visited 48 states.
Her favorite state was New Mexico, “because of the people and the landscape - just wonderful,” she said. Her family would travel for three to six weeks each year, both on the train and driving with a travel trailer.
They went to the Death Valley '49ers encampment every year for many years.
She worked for Brookhaven National Lab on Long Island for more than 30 years prior to retiring to Delaware. When she was 40, doctors placed a metal rod along her spine to help correct curvature of the spine.
When they moved to Delaware, they were quite the couple around town, enjoying cocktails with friends, live music, and the restaurant scene.
A er her husband passed, Muriel was diagnosed with rectal cancer. As she was going through chemotherapy at Tunnell Cancer Center, she fell at home and broke her neck.
Luckily she was able to call and the ambulance quickly arrived. She was taken to Christiana for emergency surgery where physicians had to place a metal rod in her neck.
“So now, I had two metal rods in me,” she said. “It was fine for years, but eventually it stopped working and now I walk weird.”
Muriel completed her chemotherapy and has been cancer-free for years. At home, her two dogs, Brandy, a Husky, and Rosco, a rescued rat terrier, keep her company and keep her on her toes.
“I have had a good life,” she said. “I feel like I have done a good job by this community and I love being with my friends here. We still get together for cocktails each week at my house.” Other nights, Muriel enjoys going to the Indian River Yacht Club for cocktails and dinner.
Muriel’s home is also a visual representation of her passion for the Z Club, with numerous swans adorning the surfaces. The swan is the icon for the Zwaanendael Club because the Dutch word, Swaanendael, (Zwaanendael) means Valley of the Swans.
“I have collected so many swans over the years,” Muriel said with a laugh. “I have plans for each of them a er I am gone and many will go to other Z Club members.”
Nominate your friendly Lewes Neighbor to be featured in a future issue! Email their name, email address or phone number to Rachel at rswick@ bestversionmedia.com.
Women's Club of Indian River meeting attendees shown are (l-r) Shelby Weilopp, treasurer; guest speaker Katie Leister from Meals on Wheels; Henrietta BelcherStack, president; and Muriel Pfei er, vice president.
Z Club friends (l-r) are Jan Conant, GFWC Delaware President, Muriel Pfei er, and Joyce Skrobot, Z Club President.
Muriel and close friend, Henri Belcher Stack.
Who’s on your child’s IEP team?
By William Lane Ed.D., Special Education Consultant
Navigating the world of special education can feel overwhelming for parents, especially when it comes to understanding who is involved in creating and implementing an Individualized Education Program (IEP). The IEP team is a group of individuals who collaborate to design a plan tailored to meet the unique needs of your child. As a parent, you are a vital member of this team.
Here’s a breakdown of who’s on the IEP team and their roles, so you can feel confident and prepared at your next meeting.
1. The Parent(s) or Guardian(s)
You are the most important advocate for your child. Your role on the IEP team is to share insights into your child’s strengths, challenges, and goals. You bring essential knowledge about your child’s medical history, behaviors, and personality that can help the team design an e ective plan. Be prepared to ask questions, express concerns, and provide input about accommodations, modifications, and services that will benefit your child.
2. The General Education Teacher
If your child spends any time in a general education classroom, their teacher will be part of the IEP team. This teacher provides insights into how your child is performing alongside their peers and o ers suggestions for accommodation or strategies to help your child succeed in a mainstream environment. They also play a role in implementing the IEP in the classroom, ensuring that modifications and supports are in place.
3. The Special Education Teacher or Service Provider
Special education teachers are experts in individualized instruction and accommodations. They work closely with your child, o en providing direct support and specialized instruction.
4. A School Administrator or Local Education Agency (LEA) Representative
A LEA representative, o en a principal or special education coordinator, must attend the meeting. This person ensures that the school is fulfilling its legal obligations under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
5. An Evaluation Specialist
This may be a school psychologist, speech therapist, occupational therapist, or other professional who has assessed your child.
6. Related Service Providers
These could include:
• Speech-Language Pathologists
• Occupational Therapists
• Physical Therapists
• Behavior Specialists
• Social Workers or Counselors
7. Your Child (When Appropriate)
Once your child reaches a certain age (o en around 14 or earlier, depending on state guidelines), they may be invited to participate in their IEP meetings. Encouraging your child to participate helps them develop self-advocacy skills and take ownership of their education.
8. Advocates or Parent Support Persons
As a parent, you have the right to bring someone with you to the IEP meeting. This could be an advocate, friend, or family member who can provide emotional support or help you navigate the discussion.
9. Other Individuals with Knowledge of Your Child
You may also invite other people who have valuable insights about your child.
Tips for a Successful IEP Meeting
• Come Prepared: Review any documents sent before the meeting and write down questions or concerns you want to address.
• Stay Involved: Your input is critical. Don’t hesitate to share your observations or advocate for specific supports.
• Ask Questions: If something is unclear, ask for clarification. The IEP process can be complex, and it’s important to fully understand your child’s plan.
• Collaborate: Remember, the IEP team is there to support your child. Work together to find solutions and set achievable goals.
Dr. William Lane is a special education consultant helping parents and educators to more meaningfully participate, be better advocates, and prepare inclusive classrooms, so that e ective learning can occur for all students. He can be reached at hello@drwilliamlane.com or 302-745-7472.
Dr. William Lane is a special education consultant helping parents and educators to more meaningfully participate, be better advocates, and prepare inclusive classrooms, so that effective learning can occur for all students.
Depending on your goals for your child my services include: Reviewing the IEP plan
Collaborating with you and the school to help ensure your child’s success Making sure there is consistency at school and at home
Speaking to other IEP team members on your behalf
Providing one-on-one tutoring sessions as needed
Meet Max And Louie!
Submitted by Lisa Dickinson
Greetings from Max and Louie!
The Dickinson family lives on Kings Highway in downtown Lewes and loves taking these two lovable pups on walks.
Max (15 year old pug) and Louie (8 month old Bernedoodle) are stealing hearts with their contrasting personalities. Max, the wise and laid-back elder, enjoys relaxed strolls at Stango Park and plenty of downtime. Louie, full of puppy energy, loves long walks, meeting new friends, and playing fetch. Together, they make the perfect pair. Max o ers calm companionship, while Louie brings the spark of youth. Together, they remind us of the joy rescue pups bring to our lives.
Rehoboth Beach Film Society Announces Bever as Executive Director
By Kim Wilkins
The Rehoboth Beach Film Society (RBFS), a leading organization in arts and culture, is pleased to announce David Bever as the new Executive Director.
Dave will play a pivotal role in driving RBFS’s strategic initiatives and fostering its growth. With a proven track record of success in nonprofit leadership, Bever brings a wealth of experience and expertise. His extensive background in nonprofit management positions him as an invaluable asset to the organization. Bever has a strong reputation for innovative thinking, exceptional leadership, and partnership development. He has a broad and deep understanding of both nonprofit management and the ever-changing landscape of film societies and the festivals that surround and support them.
RBFS president, Barbara Byrd Keenan o ers this: “We are thrilled to have recruited such an amazing leader. Dave’s visionary approach and strategic mindset will serve the film society well. His amazingly focused and mission-driven work with social justice causes aligns him perfectly with our vision: to collaborate e ectively with all segments of our community and to weave a tapestry of inclusion where all are seen, valued - and, yes, entertained!”
Where
In his new role, Bever will be responsible for strategic planning, fund development and strategic partnerships. He also has a proven track record of operational excellence and will be instrumental in guiding RBFS’s continued success and expansion.
Bever expressed unbridled enthusiasm: "As a young man, sitting in a dark movie theater, I was gobsmacked by the creative imagination on celluloid. It’s the ultimate communal experience; we’re all one and the same when we sit in a movie theater, the light of art reflecting back on us. I could never have imagined that my lifelong passion would lead four decades later to running an actual film society. That passion is now dovetailed into a career-long focus on our nonprofit mission. I am confident that together with the volunteers and sta , we will achieve remarkable milestones and create new opportunities in our truly diverse community.”
Bever holds a Master of Social Work from Temple University and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.
Learn more about the Film Society’s year-round programs, CAT This Week, our award-winning Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival (November 3 – 9, 2025), special events and theater rentals by visiting RehobothFilm.com.
Local Filmmaker to Screen Documentary March 10 at the Cinema Art Theater in Lewes
By Kim Wilkins
In celebration of Women’s History Month, the Rehoboth Beach Film Society’s Cinema Art Theater presents the compelling documentary FROM ONE PLACE TO ANOTHER: EMMA GOLDMAN CLINIC STORIES produced by local filmmaker LeAnn Erickson. The film showcasing the power of women supporting women is directed by Erickson and Camille Seeman.
In January 1973, the Roe vs. Wade Supreme Court decision swept across America, changing women’s lives as it politicized women’s bodies. At the same time in Iowa City, Iowa, a group of young feminists met to form a women’s health clinic dedicated to the tenets of self-help and access to abortion.
Producer/Director LeAnn Erickson will be present for a post-film Q & A.
1996, USA, 80 min, Rated: NR]
Admission is $9 for members, $11.50 for general audiences and $5 for students (student tickets available only at the theater box o ice). Purchase advance tickets online at rehobothfilm.com or at the Cinema Art Theater box o ice in Lewes, Wednesday-Sunday from
12:00 Noon to 5:00 PM.
The Rehoboth Beach Film Society’s (RBFS) mission is to celebrate the power of visual storytelling, showcasing independent films and creating transformative experiences for people of all-ages and diverse backgrounds here in the mid-Atlantic region. The Film Society cultivates and shines a light on the next generation of filmmakers which benefits the community and raises awareness on the positive impact of cinema as a performance art. The organization values integrity, accessibility and accountability.
Learn more about the Film Society’s yearround programs, CAT This Week, our awardwinning Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival (November 3 – 9, 2025), special events and theater rentals by visiting RehobothFilm. com.
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. www.history.delaware.gov.
Saturday, March 22
Coastal Concerts presents Boyd Meets Girl @Bethel United Methodist Church Time: 7 pm
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Tuesday, April 1
Spring at the Zwaanendael Museum
@Zwaanendael Museum
Time: 10 am to 4:15 pm
Visit the museum and see the spring decoration by the Sussex Gardeners, just in time for the Lewes Tulip Celebration. Learn more at history.delaware. gov or call 302-634-1148.
Saturday, April 5
Race for Open Space 5K to Benefit the Open Space Alliance Fundraising E ort
@George H.P. Smith Park
Time: 9 am
Tickets: $45 (discounts available for select groups) Boyd Meets Girl pairs Australian classical guitarist Rupert Boyd with American cellist Laura Metcalf. The duo has toured the world sharing their eclectic mix of music from Debussy and Bach to Radiohead and Beyoncé, and their two studio albums have received over 4 million streams on Spotify alone. The duo arranges much of their repertoire themselves, drawing inspiration from artists across all genres, and o en speak from the stage about the works to create an engaging, conversational concert experience that breaks down boundaries not only between musical genres but between audience and performer. Purchase tickets in advance at www.coastalconcerts.org or at the door.
Saturday, March 29
Cannon Ball, Supporting Historic Lewes @Lewes Yacht Club
Time: 5 pm
Tickets: $175
An inaugural gala supporting Historic Lewes. Tickets are available at historiclewes.org.
Lazy Mary Productions presents THAT OTHER 70s SHOW
@The Cinema Art Theater, Lewes Time: 5 pm
From the birth of Folk and Country to Rock & Roll, the singer/songwriter was slowly edging into the mainstream. But it really didn't take o until the 70s. Enjoy tributes to Carol King, Carly Simon, Elton John, Billy Joel, and Barry Manilow. For details and tickets, go to lazymaryproductions.com.
Sunday, March 30
Red Caboose Tour
@Red Caboose, next to Lewes Public Library Time: 10 am to 2 pm
View the interior of the recently restored 1917 Pennsylvania Railroad (PRR) “cabin car” which is located at Lewes Junction between the Lewes Public Library and the Lewes History Museum at the Rollins Community Center.
Seashore Striders are teaming up with The Open Space Alliance Campaign (osalewes.org) for a 5k Run & 1-mile “fun walk” for a great fundraising cause. The Open Space Alliance Campaign is working to maintain the Fourth St. Preserve in its natural state with public access and walking trails. Register at seashorestriders.com/race-schedule.
Make A Del Tile
@Zwaanendael Museum
Time: 11 am to 3 pm
Learn about Del tiles and make one yourself. Cra free and for all ages while supplies last. Call 302-645-1148 or email zmuseum@delaware.gov for more information.
Annual Wine, Cheese & Beer Tasting
@Cape Henlopen State Park
Time: 4 - 6 pm
Tickets: $27 in advance; $30 at the door
Tickets are available at R&L Liquors, Cape Henlopen State Park O ice, Lewes Chamber of Commerce.
SAVE THE DATE
Saturday, May 3 May 3
British Car Show
@Cape May - Lewes Ferry
Time: 11 am to 3 pm Time: 11 am to 3 pm
Learn more at leweschamber.com. more at
Southern Delaware Food and Wine Festival
@Schellville, Rehobooth Rehobooth
Time: 12 - 3:30 pm Time: 12 -
Tickets: sodelfest.com
Coastal Concerts presents EAST OF THE RIVER
@Bethel United Methodist Church
Time: 7 pm
Tickets: $45 (discounts available for select groups) East of the River was founded by internationally renowned recorder players Nina Stern and Daphna Mor. They are known for exploring haunting and virtuosic melodies from the traditional repertoires of the Balkans, Armenia and the Middle East, as well as gems of the Medieval European classical repertory. Tickets are available at coastalconcerts.org or at the door.
Bene昀椀ciaries this year are Sussex County Habitat for Humanity and the Harry K Bene昀椀ciaries year are Sussex for the Foundation Foundation.
Southern Delaware Therapeutic Riding’s Kentucky Derby Day Watch Party! Watch party
Southern Delaware on a large screen; heavy hors d’oeuvres and an assortment of drinks, including the famous on a screen; d’oeuvres and an assortment of drinks, famous Mint Juleps; auction, raf昀氀es and more! auction, raf昀氀es and more!
cOLLEGE SPORTS: Bailey Fletcher, Track Star
SUBMITTED BY
DR. ERIN FLETCHER
BAILEY FLETCHER is a Cape High grad now competing with The Ohio State University Track team!
While at Cape, Bailey competed as a pole vaulter for three years on the track team, completing six track seasons.
He was a Member of Philadelphia Jumps Club where he trained twice a week.
Bailey won many awards, including:
• Most Improved on team Sophomore Year
• Conference Champ Outdoor Sophomore year
• State Champ, 2x Conference Champ, 2x MVP Junior Year
• 2x State Champ, 2x Conference Champ, 2x MVP Senior Year
• Indoor Pole Vault School Record
• Scholar Athlete for all 3 years of Track
Bailey is in his freshman year at The Ohio State University and started competing with the team this past January.
In addition to being a talented athlete, Bailey is also a dedicated scholar. Listed as plans for his future are plans to attend medical school and become a pediatric surgeon a er college (following in his mom's footsteps. Dr. Erin Fletcher is a pediatrician with Beacon Pediatrics.)
COLLEGE SPORTS: Grace Wiggins, Field Hockey Phenom
CURATED BY RACHEL SWICK MAVITY
PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY KERRI
WIGGINS
GRACE WIGGINS, is a native of Milton and a graduate of Cape Henlopen, had an outstanding high school career which landed her on the field hockey team at University of Richmond as a freshman in 2024.
Grace helped the Cape Henlopen High field hockey program win three Delaware State Division I Championships in 2020, 2021 and 2023.
During her high school career, she garnered DFHCA All-State First Team (2022, 2023), NFHCA First Team All-Region (2023), All-Conference First Team (2022, 2023), NFHCA Watch List (2023) and served as team captain as a senior in 2023. Grace also was named as a NFHCA Senior Impact Team member in 2023.
She helped her club team, Shorebyrds Field Hockey, collect championship hardware at many national and regional tournaments and festivals, including the U16 NIT (2020, 2021), U19 NTS (2022), Winter Festival (2020-22), JPOL (2023), U19 NIT Silver (2023). She was also a highly decorated prep lacrosse player.
As a freshman at the University of Richmond, Grace came out swinging for the field hockey team. She tallied her first collegiate
points with assists on two of Clara Larripa's four goals at William and Mary (Sept. 1). She scored her first two collegiate goals against Davidson (Sept. 27), including the overtime gamewinner. She also picked up assists in wins over Davidson and Towson (Sept. 29); started every game this season; and shot six times against Davidson.
By Rachel Swick Mavity and Lisa Deal | Photos Courtesy of Lisa Deal
The Centre Ice Rink has been a place to call home for hockey players, ice skaters, and the public to enjoy for over 20 years. Recently the board of directors voted to close the rink due to lack of funds needed to support the maintenance and upkeep of the structure and support continued operations. Here in Lewes, we have several families that make the 45-minute trek 2-3 times a week for the ice hockey program.
Hunter Deal
Hunter, an 8th grader at Beacon Middle School, has only been playing ice hockey for less than a year, but he has already fallen in love with the sport, says mom Lisa Deal. In addition to his newfound passion, Hunter is a versatile athlete, participating in middle school football, wrestling, and lacrosse teams, as well as playing for the 13U Delaware Football Club Travel Team.
"Since joining The Generals in the summer of 2024, Hunter has primarily played as a goalie but has also stepped into player positions when needed," Lisa said. "Despite his enthusiasm, Hunter faces frustration with the recent closure of the rink, feeling that he had 'finally found his sport.'"
Nevertheless, Hunter remains optimistic about future rink options and is determined to continue supporting The Generals. He wants to continue travel hockey wherever that may lead.
With the impending closing of the Centre Ice Rink, ice hockey enthusiasts in southern Delaware are hopeful that plans will go through to open another ice rink.
Liam Passo introduced his friend Hunter Deal to ice hockey, and now the two can o en be found playing street hockey whenever they're not at the rink. Both are 8th graders at Beacon Middle School, and their shared passion for the sport has brought them even closer.
Liam, who previously focused on swimming with the Mako Swim Team, has increasingly been drawn to ice hockey this year. He enjoys the various training programs the rink o ers, such as Learn to Play and skating clinics that enhance speed and agility. Additionally, Liam finds joy in helping younger skaters learn the game and spending time on the ice during open skate hours a er practice.
Zachary Wolfe
Zachary, a 13-year-old who has played at the rink for four years, loves everything about being on the ice. Since he was a toddler, he begged to learn how to play hockey and, like many players, started with the Learn to Play and Skate programs. Although Zachary participates in many sports, hockey remains his favorite, saying, "everything feels perfect out there." He speaks highly of the coaches, players, and rink management, appreciating the supportive environment.
Zachary is dedicated to working hard and takes pride in his successes on the ice.
Built at the turn of the 20th century, this classic 6-bedroom Lewes beach house, just one block from the sands of the beautiful Delaware Bay, blends timeless charm with coastal elegance. Originally the vision of former Fire Marshall, William Walsh, this quintessential east coast beach house has been tastefully upgraded and lovingly maintained for decades. The exterior boasts a timeless Victorian aesthetic with crisp white trim and a charming wraparound front porch that offers the perfect setting for enjoying your morning coffee or an evening cocktail. Inside, the home is a harmonious blend of nostalgia and comfort, featuring original pine hardwood floors and thoughtfully curated coastal-chic finishes that create a welcoming ambiance that instantly draws you in. Modern conveniences abound, including central air conditioning, 1st floor primary suite, and a private driveway leading to a one-car garage, plus additional off-street parking—offering a rare total of six parking spaces! Being sold furnished with exclusions. Whether you're looking for a forever home, an idyllic vacation escape, or a rewarding investment, this is your opportunity to own a piece of Lewes history—and begin making your own memories at Lewes Beach! Call for more details! - MLS: DESU2076772
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 pricing for a limited time only.
St.Patrick’s Day is annually celebrated on March 17th with the intention of honoring Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. Born in Britain during the late 4th century, Patrick was kidnapped by Irish raiders at age 16 and brought to Ireland as a slave. A er 6 years, he escaped. He later returned to Ireland as a missionary, playing a significant role in converting the Irish to Christianity. One popular legend suggests he used the three leaves of the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity.
The tradition of celebrating St. Patrick’s Day dates back over a thousand years. In Ireland, it was observed as a religious feast day, with families attending church in the morning and celebrating late in the a ernoon. Lenten prohibitions against meat were waived, allowing people to dance, drink, and feast on traditional meals like Irish bacon and cabbage.
The first recorded St. Patrick’s Day parade took place not in Ireland but in
America. On March 17, 1601, a Spanish colony in what is now St. Augustine, Florida, held a parade organized by the colony’s Irish vicar, Ricardo Artur. Later, in 1762, Irish soldiers serving in the English military marched through New York City, further establishing the parade tradition.
Over time, St. Patrick’s Day evolved into a celebration of Irish culture, especially in the United States. Cities like Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Savannah host large parades, with Chicago famously dyeing its river green since 1962. These festivities o en feature music, dancing, and the wearing of green attire, symbolizing Irish pride and heritage.
Today, St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated worldwide, transcending its religious origins to become a global festival honoring Irish culture and the legacy of St. Patrick.
References: https://www.history.com
Proud to support the neighborhood
Being a good neighbor means being there for my community. As your local State Farm® agent, I’m ready to help whenever you need me. Give me a call.
Hello neighbors! I am honored to be your local expert. As a lifelong resident I am passionate about our town and look forward to our dialogues.
Spring is an extra special time of year to connect to nature. Hiking is a unique experience during this season when there’s a chance to see the first signs of renewal in plants, trees and wildlife.
While it’s a gorgeous season to get outside, keep in mind weather can also be volatile in the springtime. Before heading out on a hike, it’s essential to do some planning and preparation.
Weather
Weather patterns can change quickly in the spring – be prepared for rain showers! Prior to heading out the door, check the forecast so you can dress and pack appropriately.
Helpful tip: Before you go, download a weather app on your phone so you can keep an eye on the radar throughout the day.
Trails
A er a long winter, it’s crucial to know which trails are maintained this time of the year. Be aware of trail conditions and closures, as some paths may be inaccessible due to snowmelt or muddy terrain. When looking at trail maps and conditions online, make sure all the data and information has been recently updated. Your best bet for the most up-to-date information would be to call the park o ice to find out the most current report.
Safety
It’s not only more fun to hike with a friend or group, but also more safe in case of an emergency. Slippery trail conditions in the spring can increase the chances of injury, so it’s best to hike with a buddy. If you’re hiking alone, tell a family or friend where you are going and when you will expect to return.
Wildlife activity also increases in spring with animals emerging from hibernation. Remember to keep a safe distance from wildlife and avoid disturbing nesting areas. Bring a basic first aid kit with you and know how to use it, especially for common springtime issues like allergies or insect bites.
Gear
During this transitional season, it can be challenging to know what to wear and bring for gear. While you don’t want to over pack, it’s beneficial to bring a backpack for water, snacks, insect repellant, sunscreen and extra layers. If rain is in the forecast, be sure to pack wet weather gear, including a waterproof outer layer and comfortable hiking boots. Even if it’s not rainy, the trails might be muddy from snow melt. You may also consider bringing trekking poles for extra stability on uneven or slippery trails.
As you step on the trails this spring, take time to notice and observe the remarkable changes taking place in nature. Appreciate the springtime air, scenery, beauty and sounds – take it all in and enjoy your hiking adventure!
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