I applaud the owners of the Dewey Beer & Food Co. (Clinton Bunting, Brandon Smith, Mike Reilly and Chef Bill Clifton) and the commissioners and planning commission of Dewey Beach for the civil resolution of concerns related to approval of the new Dewey Beer & Food Co brew pub restaurant.
For those of us who treasure the Delmarva beaches as a place to escape for a time from the world of Washington, D.C. political hardball, it has been discouraging to witness the “politics of personal destruction” take root in Dewey Beach. I know that it is easier to take some people out of D.C. than it is to take the D.C. out of those people. But hardball scare tactics based on false and inaccurate statements do nothing to encourage civic harmony.
Moreover, the same old, same old scare tactics lose their effectiveness among those of us who’ve heard of the imminent demise of Dewey Beach for more than 20 years. I share Mr. Bunting’s hope that going forward, all concerned will engage in in a positive manner to improve Dewey Beach.
For guidance, Dewey Beach need look no further than Rehoboth Beach under the stewardship of Mayor Sam Cooper. Rehoboth has been able to tackle numerous thorny issues without the drama (and legal fees) thrust upon Dewey Beach. While I have not always agreed with Mayor Cooper, I’m grateful for the steady hand he has provided for many years. Dewey Beach Mayor Diane Hanson has demonstrated similar courage in this instance and I hope this is a sign of things to come.
Michael Bednarek
Rehoboth Beach
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