Community Briefs 2/28/24

CBH applies for grant to expand Milton after-school programming

Children’s Beach House has submitted a funding application for a 21st Century Community Learning Center grant to support after-school programming at Milton Elementary School and H.O. Brittingham Elementary School in Milton. For two years, Children’s Beach House has been offering program support to the Friends at Milton Elementary after-school program, which has also been funded by a 21st Century grant. Under the new grant proposal, Children’s Beach House would partner with Cape Henlopen School District and the two schools, and would serve as lead agency and fiscal sponsor of FAME and EmpowerED Milton Futures, a new after-school program at H.O. Brittingham. Each program would offer four days of after-school programming for up to 140 students with a focus on academic support and social-emotional skills, all within the context of positive, nurturing relationships that are the hallmark of all programs at Children’s Beach House. There will also be five weeks of summer programming, four days per week, at the two elementary schools.

“We are so excited to expand our relationship with the town of Milton and its schools in this way,” said Rich Garrett, CBH executive director. “Again and again, research reveals that quality, dependable after-school and summer programming is an essential part of positive outcomes for children, families and communities. The children of Milton are at the heart of who we are and how we show up as an organization, here and across the state. We can’t wait to realize the next phase of this partnership.”

CBH’s 21st Century Community Learning Center grant application is available for public review at 1800 Bay Ave., Lewes. Interested parties may request to read it by calling 302-645-9184.

March is National Home Watch Month

The National Home Watch Association reminds property owners that March is National Home Watch Month, aiming to educate homeowners about the need for home watch services.

With estimates of as many as 10 million second and vacation homes in the U.S. and Canada, the home watch industry provides a risk-mitigation service that not many second homeowners outside of the southern-tier states may be aware of.

Home watch is defined as a visual inspection of a home or property looking for obvious issues. Association Executive Director Jack Luber said, “Because the home watch industry is not recognized by any government entity in the U.S. or Canada, the National Home Watch Association accredits those legitimate businesses that carry the proper business credentials and insurance coverage to protect their clients. All members pass a criminal background check and are vetted for consumer complaints.” There are trillions of dollars’ worth of real estate that goes unchecked for months at a time, leaving homes and properties vulnerable to undiscovered problems such as water damage, mold and even squatters. 

Home and Boat Watchdog of Lewes and Rehoboth Beach is an accredited member of the National Home Watch Association.

For more information, call owner David Koster at 302-226-2362 and go to HBwatchdog.com.

Caesar Rodney scholarship applications due March 1

The Caesar Rodney Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution is accepting applications for the 2024 Caesar Rodney Chapter scholarship until Friday, March 1. This scholarship seeks to recognize outstanding student volunteer service and honor young people who have made a difference by inspiring others toward volunteer service. Eligible applicants must be high school seniors who reside in Sussex or Kent counties, or who are the child or grandchild of a primary member of the Caesar Rodney Chapter living outside these counties. Successful applicants must be active volunteers in school and the community, and have a minimum GPA of 2.5. To apply, go to dessar.org and select CR 2024 Scholarship. For more information, contact Michael Fritz, chapter president, at vepamberi@aol.com. The Sons of the American Revolution honors Revolutionary War patriot ancestors by promoting patriotism, serving communities, and educating and inspiring future generations about the founding principles of the country.

IRHS Hall of Fame nominations due March 1

The Indian River High School Hall of Fame continues to honor alumni who make outstanding achievements in this community and the world. The nomination deadline is Friday, March 1, for the 2023-24 Hall of Fame induction. The selection committee is looking for graduates who show great character, citizenship and leadership, and who have made significant contributions in their field and community. The nominee must have graduated from Indian River High School at least 10 years prior to the nomination. The candidates will be evaluated on achievements and recognition in their chosen fields.

Today’s students are following in great footsteps. Previous inductees include educators, legislators, artists, civic leaders, athletes, first responders and more. They’ve come from as near as Dagsboro, and far as Texas and Michigan. The ideal candidate would be considered a role model whose life and work will inspire Indian River students in their pursuit of excellence. Download nomination forms at IRHSAlumni.com. Submissions must include the nomination paperwork, plus a second recommendation letter from another individual. Late applications will not be accepted. 

Women of Delaware History kids’ programs to start March 1

The Georgetown Public Library will host a kids’ program on Women of Delaware History at 3:30 p.m. each Friday from March 1 through March 22, at 123 West Pine St., Georgetown. From the mother of Delaware’s chicken industry to the most famous woman astronomer in the U.S., the First State boasts a long list of extraordinary women. Weekly programs will explore these women, their lives and the reasons they were inducted into the Delaware Women’s Hall of Fame. “This will be a great way to celebrate Women’s History Month for the children that come to the library,” said Rachel Culver, library director. For more information, call 302-856-7958 or go to georgetown.lib.de.us.

Browseabout book club meetings continue March 3

Browseabout Book Club, celebrating its 27th year, discusses works of literary fiction, poetry, nonfiction and a range of genres. Members select works for their timely and timeless importance, and uniqueness of perspective. Its next discussion, set for 3 to 4:30 p.m., Sunday, March 3, will focus on “The Netanyahus” by Joshua Cohen.

Browseabout’s Words That Bleed book club will meet from 3 to 4:30 p.m., Sunday, March 24, for a discussion of “Horrorstor” by Grady Hendrix, a comic horror novel about a haunted Ikea-like store. Led by staff member and published author Kelly Lidji, the club is for fans of horror and suspense.

Browsers Forensic Files, led by staff member and intrepid sleuth Steve Swain, is for enthusiasts of true crime and investigative journalism. Its next discussion is set for 3 to 4 p.m., Sunday, March 31, focusing on “We Keep the Dead Close” by Becky Cooper.

The book clubs are free to join and require no registration. For more information, go to browseaboutbooks.com.

UUSD to meet March 3

The Unitarian Universalists of Southern Delaware will hold an in-person and livestreamed service at 10 a.m., Sunday, March 3, with the topic Celebrating What Is. The Rev. Heather Rion Starr said, “Congregational continuity, consistency, growth and change all take vision, time, persistence and especially your support. Drawing upon stories of visionary activists from the deep roots of the past, we will look ahead to our goals and challenges for the coming year. This is fiscal year 2025 pledge drive kickoff Sunday as we celebrate the many ways that we can lift each other up.” For more information, go to uussd.org.

AARP Georgetown to meet March 4

The American Association of Retired Persons Chapter 5340 will meet at 11 a.m., Monday, March 4, at Pizza King in Millsboro. Individuals pay for lunch of their own choosing.

Speaking will be Alta Porterfield, director of the Delaware Library Navigator Program. Through the program, individuals learn about the use of library resources in everyday life and navigate the various social support programs available in Delaware using library resources.

Scheduled to speak at the April meeting is Pamela Laursion, who has gained an expertise in biblical studies and studied at archaeological sites in Saudi Arabia. She will discuss her work and travels in undertaking the exploration of Middle Eastern history through ancient artifacts.

For more information, email Carol Ann Stone at casflowers@comcast.net. 

Common fraud schemes and scams program set March 7

Shore United Bank will host a workshop on common fraud schemes and scams at 11 a.m., Thursday, March 7, at Rehoboth Beach Public Library, 226 Rehoboth Ave., Rehoboth Beach. Topics to be covered include fraud awareness related to employment, romance, travel, internet and mobile device usage.

Reserve seats by March 7 for NARFE lunch

NARFE Chapter 1690 will hold a luncheon meeting at 11:30 a.m., Thursday, March 14, at 1776 Steakhouse in the Midway Shopping Center, Route 1, Rehoboth Beach. Reservations must be made by emailing luncheon@narfe-de.org by Thursday, March 7. Cost is $19 per person including gratuities. Payment is due upon arrival by cash or check made out to NARFE Chapter 1690. Attendees are asked to arrive by 11:30 a.m. to facilitate check-in.