Busy Memorial Day brings hope for strong, safe summer

Rehoboth Beach Public Works Director Kevin Williams said it best during a May 30 ceremony at the Bandstand: Memorial Day is about much more than a three-day weekend.

Dozens of observances took place across Sussex County. Each honored and remembered members of the armed forces who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

Red, white and blue were the dominant colors of the weekend, even for those who didn’t attend a ceremony. Whether seen in star-spangled banners attached to trucks on the beach or boats in the canal or bay, patriotic hats or shirts worn by people walking down the Boardwalk, or small flags placed by soldiers’ graves, patriotism was alive and well in the Cape Region.

Thanks to near-perfect weather, the resort area was teeming with visitors. Shops and restaurants were busy. Cape Henlopen State Park was forced to close May 29 when it reached capacity. Summer is here, whether we’re ready or not.

If the weekend is any indication, this summer will be strong for local tourism. One problem lingers, though. Many businesses are still operating without a full staff of employees. Restaurants, in particular, may have longer wait times. Although frustrating, it’s important to be kind and patient.

Staffing shortages have hit all sectors, including the Lewes Beach Patrol. Just a few weeks before Memorial Day weekend, the city announced it was planning to forgo a patrol this year due to a lack of qualified applicants. Fortunately, longtime beach patrol Capt. Kent Buckson stepped up to help, working with city officials to hire Strohm Edwards, an experienced swim instructor, as Lewes’ captain. The city was able to have lifeguards on the stands Memorial Day weekend and hopes to have a full complement of guards soon.

So, as we begin a new summer, we pause to remember servicemen and women who’ve died for our country; we thank hospitality workers for stepping up to serve our resort community during its busiest season; and we thank those who work to ensure a safe environment for locals and visitors to the Cape Region.