News Briefs 1/16/26

Dock proposed in Silver Lake, again

Property owners at 6 Silver Lane in Rehoboth Beach have submitted an application to the state to build a new dock and pier on Silver Lake.

The state’s Division of Water issued a notice Jan. 14. According to the application, the project includes a 4-by-20-foot pier and a 5-by-20-foot dock.

This is at least the second time a dock has been proposed for the property. In late 2020, plans submitted to the state included work to stabilize the lake’s shoreline, a 4-by-35-foot pier, a 5-by-20-foot L-shaped dock, a 5-by-14-foot floating kayak dock and one associated ladder. According to the application, the kayak launch and stabilization elements of the project have now been removed.

Comments are due no later than Tuesday, Feb. 3. To submit all written comments and a meritorious request for a public hearing, email Wetlands_LegalNotice@Delaware.gov. For more information, contact the Wetlands and Waterways Section by emailing Wetlands_LegalNotice@delaware.gov or calling 302-739-9943.

Holiday concert nets $2,500 for Children’s Beach House

Children’s Beach House accepted a donation of more than $2,500 in proceeds from Seaside Greetings, a holiday concert presented Lazy Mary Productions at Palm Beach Bar & Grill. The show featured vocalists Christine Asero and Paul Maisano, accompanied by Rehoboth Beach pianist Doug Yetter.  “Events like this remind us what’s possible when local artists and businesses come together for children,” said Rich Garrett, CBH executive director. “These funds will directly support programs that help kids grow, belong and thrive. The spirit of generosity will stay with us well beyond the holidays.” CBH helps youngsters with disabilities reach their fullest potential through year-round programs that build confidence, resilience and community connection.

Lewes approves 815 Kings Hwy. site plan

Lewes Mayor and City Council unanimously approved the preliminary site plan for the 815 Kings Hwy. property Jan. 12.

The developer plans to turn the single-family dwelling into a general retail space with an apartment on the second floor. The property is zoned GC, general commercial.

Council attached a condition that a fence separating the property from 812 Kings Hwy. not be white plastic or chain link in an effort to beautify the project, which is on the Lewes Byway.

Lewes executive joins America250

Lewes resident Thomas Jensen has joined America250 and will lead its government relations activities.

The national nonprofit was created by Congress and the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission to celebrate and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

In conjunction with state and municipal sister organizations, America250 has events planned throughout 2026 to celebrate the nation’s 250th birthday, with special emphasis on Independence Day weekend.

Jensen, a longtime Washington, D.C. transportation and infrastructure lobbyist, will lead engagement by the America 250 Congressional Caucus, the largest bicameral, bipartisan congressional caucus in history. "If Republicans and Democrats can agree on anything, it is that we should all celebrate the 250th birthday of our great nation,” Jensen said.

Both the State of Delaware and the City of Lewes have created America250 organizations to bolster and enhance this nationwide celebration.

Lewes rescinds home-based biz ordinance

Lewes Mayor and City Council voted unanimously Jan. 12 to rescind the home-based business ordinance that was passed Dec. 8.

Mayor Amy Marasco said at the time that she did not think council got it right.

The ordinance would classify home-based businesses as either no impact or high impact to a neighborhood.  Council will next discuss the measure during a working session at 10 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 28, at city hall.

The ordinance is the result of a 2024 application by Sarah Prieto and Stephen Matthews to open a dog grooming business in the basement of their historic row home at 405 Savannah Road.

The property is zoned limited-commercial historic.

Their neighbors are opposed, claiming barking dogs, odor and lack of parking for clients would not be appropriate for the neighborhood.

Dewey town council meeting set Jan. 16

Dewey Beach Town Council will hold a meeting and public hearing at 3 p.m., Friday, Jan. 16, at the town lifesaving station, following a 1 p.m. public budget workshop.

The meeting will include a presentation and discussion of the recently completed 2025 Dewey Beach Police Department organizational analysis. The analysis follows one conducted in 2019 and includes progress made by the department since then. 

Commissioners will also discuss and possibly take action on a resolution to amend the FY 2026 budget, as well as a resolution to approve the purchase of a donor recognition wall for the new town hall building. 

They will also discuss recommendations regarding minimum standards for property maintenance, which were a hot topic at the last council meeting. Read more at tinyurl.com/mv4ud53k.

In the hearing, council will discuss a resolution to task the planning & zoning commission to come up with recommendations for amending town code relating to required yards, accessory swimming pools and pool fences, with possible action afterward.

State warming stations open Jan. 16

With Delaware facing dangerously cold temperatures, the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services is opening eight warming stations across the state.

The state-operated warming stations will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Friday, Jan.16, and Tuesday and Wednesday, Jan. 20 and 21.  Sussex County locations are: Adams State Service Center, 546 Bedford St., Georgetown, 302-515-3080; Laurel State Service Center, 31039 N. Poplar St., Laurel, 302-875-8402; and Shipley State Service Center, 350 Virginia Ave., Seaford, 302-628-6700.

Blood drive set at Midway theaters

The Blood Bank of Delmarva will hold its third annual blood drive in partnership with the Movies at Midway from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 17, at the theater complex, 18585 Coastal Highway No. 1, Rehoboth Beach. All donors will receive a free movie ticket.

January is National Blood Donor Month and typically one of the most challenging months for the blood supply. Holiday travel, school breaks, winter weather and seasonal illness often prevent donors from keeping appointments, even as patient needs remain constant.

To sign up for this blood drive, go to tinyurl.com/ye3u2znx or call 1-888-8-BLOOD-8.

Genealogical society to meet Jan. 17

The Sussex County Genealogical Society will meet at 10 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 17, at Lewes Public Library and via Zoom. The guest speaker will be local historian Katherine Henn, PhD, discussing the historical significance of the Erie Canal and the nearby towns. Henn’s grandfather was born on an Erie Canal boat owned by his father, with whom he worked on the canal until his early 20s. Henn will discuss key municipalities and smaller towns situated along the canal. All members and guests must register at lewes.lib.de.us; find the meeting date under Events. For more information, go to scgsdelaware.org.

UUSD to meet Jan. 18

The Unitarian Universalists of Southern Delaware will hold a service at 10 a.m., Sunday, Jan. 18, with I Must Resist as the topic. The Rev. Heather Rion Starr said, “On this weekend of celebrations honoring Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we will ponder the life and legacy of Bayard Rustin. He was a principal organizer of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. What is there still to glean, consider, learn and be inspired by from Bayard Rustin’s life and stories?”

Lewes City Hall, BPW closed Jan. 19

Lewes City Hall and the Board of Public Works offices will be closed Monday, Jan. 19.

Both will reopen at 8 a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 20

Milford community celebration to honor MLK Jan. 19

Downtown Milford Inc. will host a free community celebration honoring the life, legacy and enduring impact of the Rev. Dr.  Martin Luther King Jr. at 6 p.m., Monday, Jan. 19, at the Milford Senior Center, 111 Park Ave., Milford.

Held in partnership with the City of Milford, and local faith- and community-based organizations, the Rev. Dr.  Martin Luther King Jr. Day event of music, community conversation, activities for children and local vendors will offer a welcoming and inclusive experience for all ages.

Delivering the keynote address will be Cliffvon Howell, associate vice president of engagement and impact at United Way of Delaware. Howell will lead a thought-provoking dialogue focused on service, equity and community impact principles that continue to define King’s vision and align with Downtown Milford Inc.’s commitment to a vibrant, connected community.

The event is made possible through collaboration with Jesus Love Temple, Avenue Church, I Am My Sister’s Keeper, The Culture Club, Mount Enon Baptist Church and other community partners working together to uplift voices, inspire unity and strengthen Milford.

To learn more, go to downtownmilford.org or call 302-393-6808.

Route 1 SB lane closures begin Jan. 19

The Delaware Department of Transportation announced lane closures on southbound Route 1 between Best Lane and Janice Road will be in place daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., starting Monday, Jan. 19, and continuing for about four weeks (weather permitting). The closures will allow for widening, grading and resetting/shifting of temporary barriers related to the Minos Conaway Road Grade Separated Intersection Project.

Motorists are reminded to slow down in work zones and expect minor delays while traveling in the area. 

Sussex Family YMCA to host open house Jan. 19

The Sussex Family YMCA will welcome the community for a free open house for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday, Jan. 19, at 20080 Church St., Rehoboth Beach.

Guests will enjoy access to facilities, fitness classes, activities for kids and families, and opportunities to learn about programs that support youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

In honor of King’s legacy of service and inclusion, the Sussex Family Y is one of several YMCA of Delaware locations hosting open houses that day. These family-friendly events will showcase the Y’s mission to strengthen communities and provide opportunities for all to belong.

“Dr. King’s vision of unity, service and justice continues to inspire the work we do every day at the YMCA,” said Jarrett Royster, president and CEO of the YMCA of Delaware. “Opening our doors on MLK Day allows us to welcome the community, honor his legacy and reaffirm our commitment to serving all.”

Antique tractor club to meet Jan. 20

The First State Antique Tractor Club will meet at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 20, at the Greenwood VFW on the corner of Governors Avenue and Mill Street, Greenwood. A review of 2025 will be discussed, along with new business and plans for the annual scholarships. The club is always looking for new members. Contact Maralene Givens, 302-228-2674 or maraleneg1@verizon.net, for more information.

Lewes bike panel to meet Jan. 20

The Lewes Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee will hold its monthly meeting at 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 20, at city hall.

The agenda includes discussion and possible action on a proposal to relocate stop signs at Monroe and Railroad avenues. 

Lewes finance panel to meet Jan. 20

The Lewes Finance Committee will meet at 10 a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 20, at city hall.

The agenda includes presentation and discussion of the fiscal year third-quarter and year-end projections.

Speak Out Against Hate sets education panel discussion Jan. 21

Speak Out Against Hate will host When Hate Invades the Classroom, a panel discussion, from 5 to 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 21, at Lewes Public Library, 111 Adams Ave., Lewes, and online via Zoom. Moderated by Adrienne Fyock, the discussion will feature a panel of Sussex County educators sharing real-world experiences and practical strategies for fostering safer, more inclusive learning environments. Panelists include Elyse Baerga, Frederick Thomas Middle School principal; Channel Chaplin, Sussex Academy counselor; Matthew Eskridge, Indian River School District counselor; and a representative from Pathways To Success. 

Love INC Seaford open house set Jan. 22

Love INC of Mid Delmarva will hold its Quarterly Open House from 5:30 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 22, at its Cross Campus location, 703 East King St., Seaford.

The event provides an opportunity for the public to learn about the ministry, meet staff and volunteers, and experience the work being done to help individuals and families move from crisis to stability.

Guests will be able to tour Love INC’s clothing closet, food ministry, case management offices, Connection Center and more. Staff will be available to share how Love INC works alongside churches, businesses and community organizations to meet immediate needs while also supporting long-term growth and stability.

Those interested in getting involved may learn how they can connect with Love INC as a volunteer, donor, church partner or advocate to be part of positive change in the community.

Light refreshments will be available, and no registration is required; the event is open to all.

For details, visit lovedelmarva.org.

Rehoboth streets and safety meeting set

The Rehoboth Beach Streets & Safety Advisory Committee will meet at 10 a.m., Thursday, Jan. 22, at city hall, 229 Rehoboth Ave. The agenda includes updates on synchronization of seasonal prohibitions and on traffic-calming recommendations, a presentation on opportunities for King Charles Avenue and a discussion on how to approach the topic of bicycles.

A full agenda, meeting materials and a livestream are accessible at cityofrehoboth.civicweb.net. Only in-person attendees may make comments. For more information, contact the city at 302-227-6181 or information@cityofrehoboth.com.

Women’s Club of Indian River dine-and-donate set Jan. 22

In support of the GWFC Women’s Club of Indian River, Brick Works Brewing and Eats will host a dine-and-donate event from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 22, at its Long Neck location. A flyer is required for donations to be applied. Guests must show the flyer and inform servers they are dining in support of the women’s club. The restaurant will donate 15% of proceeds for qualified dine-in customers to benefit the club’s ongoing community service projects. To obtain a flyer, find GFWC Women's Club of Indian River Delaware on Facebook.

Rehoboth planning commission to meet

The Rehoboth Beach Planning Commission will meet at 1:30 p.m., Friday, Jan. 23, at city hall, 229 Rehoboth Ave. The agenda calls for two lot consolidation public hearings. The first is for the Belhaven Hotel properties, which include multiple lots on Rehoboth and Wilmington avenues. The second is for the properties at 605 South Boardwalk and 1 Stockley St.

Agenda, meeting materials and a livestream are accessible at cityofrehoboth.civicweb.net.

VIA dining fundraiser set Jan. 27

In support of the Village Improvement Association, Stingray Sushi Bar and Asian Grill will host a dine-and-donate event from 4 p.m. to closing, Tuesday, Jan. 27, at 59 Lake Ave., Rehoboth Beach. The restaurant will donate 15% of all proceeds to the VIA, a women’s civic and charitable organization dedicated to community improvement through volunteer service.

League of Women Voters sets organizational meeting Jan. 31

The League of Women Voters of Sussex County invites anyone interested in empowering voters and defending democracy to its semiannual organizational meeting, Kickoff to 2026 – Be the Light, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 31, at the Lewes Public Library, 111 Adams Ave., Lewes.

A nonpartisan organization, the league is already working to register voters and plan candidate forums for the 2026 elections.

Following a reading of Amanda Gorman's poem, "Be the Light," by Fern Goodhart and Pam Jussino, speaker Tiffany Lydon, Delaware League of Women Voters president, will deliver the keynote address.

Representatives of various league committees will share their action plans and opportunities for involvement. While the league never supports or opposes any candidate for public office, it does act on agreed-upon political issues. The Sussex league focuses primarily on local and state issues and concerns.

To register, go to sussexlwv.org and click on the News and Events link.

Library seeks businesses to take part in teen job fair March 28

The Lewes Public Library welcomes local businesses to participate in it its Annual Teen Job Fair from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, March 28, at 111 Adams Ave., Lewes. The annual fair connects teen applicants with local businesses to discuss seasonal and/or year-round employment opportunities. The fair is free of charge for both businesses and applicants. Past fairs have drawn nearly 400 interested teens ages 14-19. “This is an amazing opportunity for businesses to reach a large group of motivated teen applicants,” said Jennifer Noonan, director of youth services. “Several of last year’s participating businesses recruited their entire summer staff from this event.” Interested businesses should contact Noonan at Jennifer.Noonan@lib.de.us. Space is limited, so early registration is recommended.

Rehoboth shade tree meeting canceled

Due to a lack of agenda items, the Rehoboth Beach Parks and Shade Tree Commission has canceled its January meeting. For more information, call 302-227-6181 or email information@cityofrehoboth.com.

Men’s Bible study group to meet weekly

The Statesman’s Forum, a new men’s study group, is set to meet at 6:30 p.m., Thursdays, at the Georgetown Public Library, 123 West Pine St., Georgetown. Through scripture-based discussion, the free weekly gathering is designed to help men grow in wisdom, character and leadership. Open to all men in the community, the forum is nondenominational and nonpolitical,. Each session runs about 60-70 minutes and includes guided teaching, group discussion and practical application focused on everyday life, family and community leadership. No prior experience or preparation is required. Attendees are encouraged to bring a Bible if they have one; scripture will be provided for those who do not. There is no cost to attend, and seating is available for up to 120 participants. To learn more, contact Gregory E. Markomanolakis at info@statesmanforum.org or 302-331-5444.

Hanwell files for Cape school board

Janis Hanwell, an at-large member of the Cape Henlopen School District Board of Education, filed for re-election Jan. 13.

The election will take place Tuesday, May 12. The candidate filing deadline is 4:30 p.m., Friday, March 6.

Hanwell is currently in her second term on the board. She is also the Delaware representative in the National School Board Association Delegate Assembly and a vice president and Cape Henlopen representative on the Delaware School Board Association’s board of directors and serves on its Legislative Committee. 

She worked in education for 31 years as a special education teacher, principal and school district-level administrator.

She was the project director for construction of Cape High and, after almost 28 years of service, retired from the district in 2010 as assistant superintendent.

For more information about the election, visit elections.delaware.gov/school/index.shtml.

Jones-Giltner files for re-election

Rep. Valerie Jones-Giltner, R-Georgetown, filed Jan. 14 to run for the 37th District seat she has held since 2023.  She won a special election to fill the seat long held by Rep. Ruth Briggs King, who resigned after moving out of the district. Jones-Giltner won unopposed in 2024.

Pettyjohn files for Senate seat

Sen. Brian Pettyjohn, R-Georgetown, filed Jan. 14 to run for re-election for the District 19 Senate seat, which he has held since 2012. 

Republican primary set for 41st District

A second Republican has filed to run for the seat vacated by retiring Rep. Rich Collins, R-Millsboro.

Jacki Slonin filed Jan. 12, setting up a primary against Douglas Conaway, who had filed Nov. 20.

Collins announced in November that he would not seek re-election to the seat he has held since 2014.

Sussex County selects officers, legal staff for 2026

Sussex County Council at its Jan. 6 meeting selected Councilman Douglas B. Hudson of Ocean View as president for the second consecutive year and Councilman John L. Rieley of Millsboro to return as vice president. Both held the positions in 2025, so council leadership will remain stable and intact for another year.

It is customary for council to elect officers and appoint legal staff during the first meeting of each year. Hudson will continue to preside over all council meetings in 2026, with Rieley substituting as presiding officer anytime Hudson is unable to attend.

Council also approved J. Everett Moore Jr. for reappointment as county attorney. Moore serves at the pleasure of the county council as its chief counsel.

Staff from the Moore & Rutt and Parkowski, Guerke & Swayze law firms will represent the county’s board of adjustment and planning & zoning commission, respectively, as assistant county attorneys.