News Briefs 11/7/25
Milton approves final plat plan for Dunkin’
Milton Town Council, by a 5-2 vote Nov. 3, approved the final plat plan for Dunkin’ Donuts on Route 16.
The approval allows Dunkin’ to move forward with plans to construct a 2,860-square-foot restaurant with a drive-thru on a commercial lot in front of the Cypress Grove development on Route 16.
The lot was partitioned by town council in November. The restaurant would have 38 parking spaces and be accessed from Route 16, with motorists turning onto Grove Circle, which serves the interior lots of the development.
The final site plans were approved by Milton Planning and Zoning Commission Oct. 21.
The two no votes were from Councilman Robert Gray and Vice Mayor Lee Revis-Plank, who objected on the basis that Dunkin’ did not send a representative to answer questions at council’s Nov. 3 meeting.
Personal safety seminar set Nov. 8
BK Defensive will host a seminar on personal safety at 10 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 8, at Bayside Fitness, 34814 Long Neck Road, Millsboro. Topics include how criminals pick their targets, awareness of self and surroundings, and options for protection. The event is free and open to the public. To reserve a spot, call 302-231-8982.
Music School of Delaware to celebrate 100 years Nov. 9
The Music School of Delaware invites the public to join its family-friendly centennial event from 4 to 7 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 9, at its two branches, 23 N. Walnut St., Milford, and 4101 Washington St., Wilmington.
Celebrating a century of music-making across the First State, the events will bring together students, alumni, faculty and neighbors for an afternoon of joy, connection and discovery. Activities include multiple instrument petting zoos—where children and adults can try any instrument they’d like—scavenger hunts, and live performances by small and large ensembles. Guests can explore exhibits highlighting the school’s rich history.
The school provides exceptional music education to students of all ages and abilities, offering private lessons in more than 30 instruments and voice, as well as group classes and ensembles. Outreach programs in collaboration with schools and partner organizations bring music into communities across the state, while ensuring access for qualified students through tuition assistance. Instruction is offered in classical, rock, jazz and folk genres.
To register and learn more, go to musicschoolofdelaware.org.
Estate-planning mistakes session set Nov. 10
The Delaware Money School will offer a free Common Estate Planning Mistakes class from 5 to 6 p.m., Monday, Nov. 10, at Lewes Public Library, 111 Adams Ave., Lewes. Led by instructor Deirdre O’Shea McCartney, Esq., and Robert S. Jeter II, CFP, CRPC, the class covers common estate-planning mistakes and how to avoid them. It will explore some common myths about estate planning and offer suggestions on how attendees can optimize their financial future and legacy for their own and their loved ones’ benefit. Having written, spoken and taught on the subject many times, McCartney and Jeter break down complex subjects to understandable layman’s terms. Everyone should be aware of these mistakes and be able to consult with their attorney and financial advisor on a plan to correct them. To register, go to demoneyschool.org.
Lewes council sets public hearing Nov. 10
Lewes Mayor and City Council will hold a public hearing at 4:30 p.m., Monday, Nov. 10, at city hall.
The panel will take comments on the annexation request by 12 property owners along the unincorporated area of Hoornkill Avenue.
Council has postponed a second public hearing on a proposed ordinance to modify the Historic Preservation Architectural Review Commission’s approval process.
That hearing was also scheduled for 4:30 p.m., Nov. 10. It has not yet been rescheduled. See the full agenda and meeting link at lewes.civicweb.net.
Lewes council to meet Nov. 10
Lewes Mayor and City Council will hold its monthly meeting at 5:30 p.m., Monday, Nov. 10, at city hall.
The agenda includes discussion and possible action on a proposed ordinance that would create three tiers of home occupations based on potential impact.
The ordinance was generated from an application to open a dog grooming business in a row home at 405 Savannah Road. See the full agenda and meeting link at lewes.civicweb.net.
Rehoboth Beach workshop set Nov. 10
Rehoboth Beach commissioners will hold a workshop at 9 a.m., Monday, Nov. 10, in city hall, 229 Rehoboth Ave. The agenda includes discussions about a schedule for temporary traffic closures at the Bandstand during the summer concert series, amendments to city code about housing standards, and two ordinances establishing a schedule of fees and penalties. There will also be a review of the process for implementing new advisory committees and new task forces.
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.
Special Rehoboth meeting set Nov. 10
Rehoboth Beach commissioners will hold a special meeting right after their 9 a.m. workshop concludes Monday, Nov. 10, in city hall, 229 Rehoboth Ave. The agenda includes possible awarding of a contract for the installation of pedestrian safety improvements on Rehoboth Avenue at the Boardwalk and Bandstand, as well as consideration of a resolution supporting the city's participation in the Delaware State Housing Authority's Zoning and Land-Use Reform Pilot Program.
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.
Lewes city hall, BPW closed Nov. 11
Lewes City Hall and the Board of Public Works offices will be closed Tuesday, Nov. 11, in observance of Veterans Day.
Both will reopen at 8 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 12.
Species diversity is topic Nov. 11
The Sussex Preservation Coalition will meet at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 11, at Lewes Public Library, 111 Adams Ave.
Guest speaker Dr. Donald Moore III, a renowned biologist, will discuss species diversity and its ecological role in Delaware. He will explain how conservation of wildlife habitat affects the resilience of human communities as both face threats from overdevelopment and climate change.
All are welcome to attend; the meeting will also be available via livestream at SussexPreservationCoalition.org.
Lewes ordinance panel to meet Nov. 12
The Lewes Ordinance Review Ad Hoc Committee will meet at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 12, at city hall.
The agenda includes review and discussion on the possible impact of a wetlands ordinance on private and individual property owners’ ability to remodel existing structures or build new structures.
See the full agenda and meeting link at lewes.civicweb.net.
Mariachi dining to benefit Community ESL program Nov. 12
To benefit the Community English as a Second Language Program, Mariachi Restaurant will hold a dine and donate fundraiser from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 12, at 14 Wilmington Ave., Rehoboth Beach. Patrons can support the cause by stopping in to enjoy lunch or dinner. Owner Yolanda Pineda will donate a portion of the restaurant’s net profits earned throughout the day to the community ESL program. Both dine-in and takeout meal purchases will benefit the nonprofit, which assists adults seeking to improve their English speaking, reading and writing skills. For reservations, call 302-227-0115, or go to mariachirehobothde.com. To learn more, go to lcosrehoboth.org/esl-program.
Saltwater Fly Anglers to meet Nov. 12
The Saltwater Fly Anglers of Delaware invites fly fishermen and women of all ages and skill levels to attend its meeting at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 12, at the Rolling Meadows Clubhouse, Lewes. The featured speaker will be Capt. Mark Sampson, a fishing guide and outdoor writer who will talk about fly fishing for sharks and shark research. To learn more, go to sfaod.com.
Relay For Life dining fundraiser set Nov. 17
A dine and donate fundraiser for the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life of Sussex County is set from 3 p.m. to closing Monday, Nov. 17, at Fins Ale House, 19269 Coastal Highway, Rehoboth Beach. The restaurant will donate a percentage of proceeds to support cancer research, patient support and advocacy. To learn more, go to relayforlife.org/sussexcode.
Rehoboth applies for amendment
The state Division of Water issued a notice Nov. 5 saying Rehoboth Beach has applied to the Commercial and Government Services Section for an amendment of its Non-Hazardous Liquid Waste Transporters Permit. The amendment will authorize transport of municipal or industrial biosolids to Delaware Solid Waste Authority’s Southern Solid Waste Management Center.
The requested amendment to the permit is the next step for the city’s treatment plant to truck waste produced by its new belt filter press. The press takes sludge, which is 2% solid, and turns it into a material called cake, which is about 18% solid. Currently, Sussex County is removing the cake for the city.
For questions, contact Commercial and Government Services Section, DNREC Division of Water, at 302-739-9948 or Commercial_Government_LegalNotice@delaware.gov. Comments are due by 4:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 20.
Israel UMC sets Norwood Family Day Nov. 23
Israel United Methodist Church, under the direction of the Rev. Marjorie Belmont, will host Norwood Family Day at 10 a.m., Sunday, Nov. 23, at 20230 Plantation Road, Lewes. Guest speaker will be Dr. Roger LeBlanc of New Holy Trinity Church of God in Christ, Millsboro. Rooted and Grounded in Christ will be the theme.
‘Coney Island Christmas’ to open Nov. 28 in Milford
Second Street Players directors Rachel Loper and John H. Hulse announced show dates for the 2025 holiday production, “Coney Island Christmas,” will be Friday to Sunday, Nov. 28 to 30, and Dec. 5 to 7, at the Riverfront Theater, 2 South Walnut St., Milford.
Pulitzer Prize-winner Donald Margulies weaves together nostalgia, music and merriment in this new seasonal classic story. A holiday show for people of all ages and all faiths, “Coney Island Christmas” introduces audiences to Shirley Abramowitz, a young Jewish girl who, much to her parents’ displeasure, is cast as Jesus in the school’s Christmas pageant. As Shirley, now much older, recounts the memorable event to her great-granddaughter, the story comes to life, capturing a timeless and universal tale of holiday traditions.
Friday and Saturday shows begin at 7 p.m.; the Sunday matinee begins at 2 p.m.
Learn more at secondstreetplayers.com.
Milford holiday stroll and market set Dec. 6
Downtown Milford Inc. announced its holiday stroll and Christmas market will be from 3 to 8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 6.
“This is one of our favorite events,” says Sadé Truiett, coordinator for Downtown Milford. “Bringing the Christmas season to life in our beautiful downtown is a joy. With twinkling lights in the trees, a cozy bonfire with s’mores, and live animals, it promises to be a magical evening for families.”
Santa will be available for visits in his house at 1 North Walnut St., Milford. Along the Riverwalk, the Christmas market will feature exceptional artisan-made gifts and more.
To learn more, go to downtownmilford.org.
Marine Corps League meets monthly in Millsboro
The members of Marine Corps League Diamond State Detachment 704 are looking for a few good men, women and FMF Navy Corpsmen to join them for meetings at 7 p.m., the fourth Thursday of the month at American Legion Post 28, 31768 Legion Road, Millsboro.
The detachment’s objectives are to continue to preserve the history and traditions of the Marine Corps, specifically the camaraderie all Marines and FMF Corpsmen have experienced during their careers, and to ensure the adage, Once a Marine, Always a Marine, lives on.
For more information, go to mcldet704.org.
Local podcast host earns nod in national contest
The National Federation of Press Women Communications Contest Awards announced Blue Coast Talk host Jack Bucchioni of Milton received an honorable mention in the podcast category for his episode on Delaware Offshore Wind Investigative Journalism.
“The NFPW professional communications contest puts a spotlight on outstanding entries from throughout the United States,” said Helen S. Plotkin, NFPW professional contest director. “Our judges continue to comment about the high quality of entries they judge in the contest. The entries showcase outstanding work and exceptional efforts.”
A distinguished group of professional journalists, communications specialists and educators judged entries in a wide variety of categories. Only first-place winning entries at the state level are eligible to enter the national contest. All entries were published or broadcast between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2024.
Rehoboth seeks task force members
Rehoboth Beach is seeking applicants for the new Boardwalk Historic Designation Task Force. The purpose of this task force is to acquire historic designations for the boardwalk from the Delaware Public Archives and the National Register of Historic Places.
The task force will include seven to nine members of varied experience who will work collectively to seek and acquire the noted historic designations. Voting task force members should primarily be residents, property owners and business owners. The group may also include selected members with special related experience who live outside city limits. Experience in historic preservation or complementary fields is preferred.
Task force members will be chosen by the mayor and confirmed by the board of commissioners. The task force will meet for a limited time, with an end date to be determined when the designations are obtained. This process is expected to take up to one-and-a-half years. Meetings will be conducted in person in the commissioners room at city hall, 229 Rehoboth Ave.
Interested applicants can find details and apply at forms.cloud.microsoft/g/fRi3d1D4yB. For more information, contact Mayor Stan Mills, task force chair, at smills@rehobothbeachde.gov.
