Chuck Snyder named Rehoboth’s Citizen of the Year
Chuck Snyder has been serving Rehoboth Beach for 50 years as a firefighter, including three stints as chief.
Snyder said he was speechless when Rehoboth Beach Main Street surprised him with their highest honor, Citizen of the Year, at a meeting in November.
“I’m humbled. I never expected it,” Snyder said.
Main Street presented Snyder the award at the 30th annual Community Unity dinner Dec. 8, at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center.
Snyder was surrounded by his wife and kids and the firefighters who he called his other family. He said he is most proud of his kids and serving the community where he grew up.
“I’m passionate about what I do and I’ve done it for so long. It’s my give back to the people,” Snyder said. “I just got re-elected chief. This will be my ninth year in a row I’ll be chief. I’ve got a great bunch of guys and girls.”
In April, Snyder retired from his job of 34 years as the city’s building and grounds supervisor.
Snyder grew up in an apartment above Snyder’s convenience store on Rehoboth Avenue. He said he was most influenced by the volunteer firefighters who used to stop in for coffee.
“I’ve seen a lot of changes here. I’m a native, a Beebe baby. I hope to be able to continue on as long as I can. It’s an honor to serve you,” Snyder said.
Main Street also presented Snyder with a donation to the Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Company.
The organization also named board members Terry Kistler and Mike Venanzi as its Champions of the Year.
Kistler, who is a senior vice president and regional manager for WSFS Bank, was honored for his volunteering work with the Rehoboth Beach Film Society and other nonprofits.
Venanzi, who is the managing partner of Above the Dunes, was recognized for his work with the Sussex Consortium and as a mentor for small businesses that are looking to get started.
The convention center was decked out with Christmas decor.
Sen.-elect Lisa Blunt Rochester, Sen. Russ Huxtable, Rehoboth Beach Mayor Stan Mills, Rehoboth Beach City Manager Taylour Tedder and Police Chief Keith Banks served meals to guests at the dinner.
The Cape Henlopen Jazz Combo performed holiday favorites throughout the evening.
“The Community Unity dinner is truly an event that illustrates the collaboration that makes the community special,” said Carolyn Diefenderfer, a Rehoboth Beach Main Street board member.
