Village Improvement Association holds May luncheon

The Village Improvement Association held its Annual May Luncheon and installation of officers May 14 at Kings Creek Country Club. They also presented Joan Caggiano with the Citizen of the Year Award. Through personal and business generosity, Caggiano has  made a lasting impact on the Rehoboth Beach area. She and her husband founded Nicola Pizza. In 43 years of operation, it has provided employment to thousands. Joan is the face, heart and soul of the business and has earned the endearing nickname of “Mama Nicola.”

She smiles and warmly greets every customer that she possibly can and is one of the most recognizable women in Rehoboth Beach. She is involved in St. Edmond Catholic Church, Rehoboth Art League, Red Hats, Run for the Roses Sorority and numerous other organizations. Her contributions are done quietly and without fanfare. She established the Rehoboth Cooperative Pre-school located on Sussex Street. She originated and was supporter of the Easter Promenade which was a wildly popular town event for 20 years.

Nicola still feeds the thousands of Special Olympic Polar Bear Plungers every winter for free. Caggiano has also supported the Epworth Church Food Drive and the shelter with food and coats for the homeless.