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Winter gala held in Dewey Beach

February 22, 2013

The Fifth Annual Winter Gala was held at the Starboard Restaurant in Dewey Beach Feb.16, benefiting the Dewey Beach Patrol and the Dewey Beach Police Department. The event, usually held at the Baycenter in Dewey Beach, was held at the Starboard due to damage to the Baycenter by Superstorm Sandy.

The Starboard created an intimate atmosphere for more than 500 guests who attended, and spirits were high, despite the snow and wind that raged outside.

Halfway through the night, gala chairmen Steve Montgomery and Jim Baeurle took the stage to thank the guests of honor.  “We’re here for the police and the lifeguards,” Montgomery said.  “Everyone in this room loves Dewey Beach for what it is.”

Delaware House Speaker Rep. Pete Schwartzkopf, D-Rehoboth Beach, who attended the event, said he was a lifeguard for six years and a law officer for 25 years.  “What you guys do, you’re a hero every day,” said Schwartzkopf, D-Rehoboth Beach.

The gala featured a silent auction, several food stations and five open bars and music from the Keith Mack and Ed Shockley Band, Comfort Zone and Jimi Smooth & Hit Time.

Montgomery said when construction of the new Grand Hyatt Hotel and Convention Center at Ruddertowne is complete, the gala will return to its home venue, likely next year or in 2015.