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MERR’s Finraiser makes a splash in Rehoboth Beach

Suzanne Thurman is the executive director of the Marine Education, Research, and Rehabilitation Institute. TED PFIRRMANN PHOTOS
Ted Pfirrmann
November 22, 2023

The coastal community gathered with enthusiasm as the Marine Education, Research and Rehabilitation Institute hosted its annual Finraiser auction Nov. 18, drawing in locals and visitors alike at the picturesque Salero atop the Henlopen Hotel in Rehoboth Beach. The Atlantic Ocean served as the backdrop for an evening dedicated to preserving marine life and fostering environmental stewardship. The evening featured music from 33 1/3, a wine tasting with local celebrity bartenders, hors d'oeuvres, desserts, and both live and silent auctions.

The Finraiser welcomed an eclectic mix of attendees passionate about safeguarding the region's marine ecosystem. The Finraiser is MERR’s premier fundraising event. All proceeds go to MERR’s work with endangered marine mammals and sea turtles. MERR Institute Inc. is authorized by National Marine Fisheries Service and the State of Delaware to be the official stranding respondent for marine mammals and sea turtles in Delaware. Last year, the institute helped 22 dolphins, one porpoise, 162 seals and 27 sea turtles.

For more information about the MERR Institute, call 302-228-5029.

 

Ricardo Negret is a very convincing Capt. Don Ricardo of Spain.
Gathering before festivities begin are (l-r) Paige Marley, broadcast journalist with WRDE; Suzanne Thurman, executive director of MERR; and Emily Beale, Miss Delaware 2023.
Andy and Debbie Whitehead, who recently moved from New York, look at the items available for auction.
Local band 33 1/3 performs classic rock, soft rock and a bit of country for the audience.
The crowd looks over the vast array of items available for auction.
Diane Barlow and Michel High are supporting MERR, and having a great time doing it.
Rehoboth Beach Commissioner Ed Chrzanowski, left, and Sussex County Councilman Mark Schaeffer enjoy the evening.
Donna Celentano, left, and Kathy Revera are neighbors supporting their neighbors who are MERR volunteers.
Frank McCraghan entertains the crowd while conducting the auction.
Rob Rector, board member for MERR, enjoys the 33 1/3 performance.
The crowd enjoys dessert during the auction.
Terrance Vaughn of Pittsburgh, Pa., entertains the attendees as they exit with the 1960 Gibson Classic Les Paul he had just purchased at the auction.

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