Letters from CAMP Rehoboth, Vol. 35, No. 1

inside

THIS ISSUE

42

44 Words Matter The Art of Conversation

54 View Point The GOP Plays with Fire RICHARD ROSENDALL

56 CAMPshots

Holly Days and Long Winter Nights!

60 OUTlook

PATTIE CINELLI Progress (Impact) Poetry

Ode to the Cubbyhole

SHELLEY BLUE GRABEL

ON THE COVER

Letters from CAMP Rehoboth welcomes submissions. Email editor@camprehoboth.org. Photographs must be high resolution (300 dpi). Documents should be sent as attachments in Microsoft Word®. Deadline for submissions is two weeks prior to the issue release date. Letters to the Editor (up to 300 words) are published at the discretion of the Editor on a space-available basis. Letters may be edited for length or clarity.

EDITOR: Marj Shannon

EDITORIAL ASSOCIATE: Matty Brown

DESIGN AND LAYOUT: Mary Beth Ramsey

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER: Tricia Massella

DISTRIBUTION: Mark Wolf

The Drums and Donald Trump BETH SHOCKLEY 64 Visiting View

The Concrete Jungle ROBERT DEDOMINIC

66 CAMP Arts

LESLIE SINCLAIR

68 Booked Solid TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER

70 Mardi Gras Indians

Their Mystique, Mirth, and Majesty

NANCY SAKADUSKI

CONTRIBUTORS: Ann Aptaker, Chris Azzopardi, Rich Barnett, Matty Brown, Pattie Cinelli, Wes Combs, Michael Cook, Robert DeDominic, Clarence Fluker, Michael Thomas Ford, Shelley Blue Grabel, Fay Jacobs, Leslie Ledogar, Kim Leisey, Tricia Massella, Jean McCutcheon, Christopher Moore, Sharon Morgan, Eric Morrison, Eric Peterson, Mary Beth Ramsey, Stephen Raskauskas, Richard Rosendall, Nancy Sakaduski, Terri Schlichenmeyer, Marj Shannon, Beth Shockley, Leslie Sinclair, Mary Jo Tarallo, Eric Wahl

Letters from CAMP Rehoboth is published 11 times per year, between February and December, as a program of CAMP Rehoboth Inc., a non-profit community service organization. CAMP Rehoboth seeks to create a more positive environment of cooperation and understanding among all people. Revenue generated by advertisements supports CAMP Rehoboth’s purpose as outlined in our mission statement.

The inclusion or mention of any person, group, or business in Letters from CAMP Rehoboth does not, nor is it intended in any way, to imply sexual orientation or gender identity. The content of the columns are the views and opinions of the writers and may not indicate the position of CAMP Rehoboth, Inc.

© 2025 by CAMP Rehoboth, Inc. All rights reserved by CAMP Rehoboth. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the

of the

Consecrated II by Candy Fordjour Frimpon. See CAMP Arts page 66.

CAMP REHOBOTH MISSION STATEMENT AND PURPOSE

MISSION

CAMP Rehoboth is an LGBTQ+ community center determined to Create A More Positive (CAMP) environment that is inclusive of all sexual orientations and gender identities in southern Delaware and beyond. We seek to promote cooperation, understanding among all people, and well-being, as we continue our to work to build a safer community with room for all.

VISION

CAMP Rehoboth envisions communities in Southern Delaware and beyond where all LGBTQ+ people thrive.

PURPOSE

Promoting the health and wellness of our community through a variety of programs including HIV testing and counseling, mental health support, fitness classes, mindfulness classes, support for LGBTQ youth, and building community and support.

Promoting artistic expressions and creative thinking, and giving aid to artists and craftspeople with an emphasis on the works of LGBTQ people.

Advocating for our community to build a safe and inclusive community through voter information, education, and registration; and analysis of issues and candidates.

Education and outreach to the larger community, including sensitivity training seminars, and printed materials to promote positive images of LGBTQ people and our allies.

Networking resources and information by publishing a magazine, and functioning as an alternative tourist bureau and information center.

SFrom the Editor

BY MARJ SHANNON, EDITOR

o—it’s been a LOT, right? And it’s just February!

Not surprisingly, many Letters’ contributors have something to say about the current political situation(s). Their columns range from inspiring (interviews with Sarah McBride and with her parents) to ominous (Richard Rosendall) to an embrace of survival tactics (Beth Shockley’s revisiting her drums). Others speak of finding refuge in refocusing: Michael Thomas Ford is homing in on his village; Eric Morrison reminds us that “There’s good news in Delaware!”

There’s also good news right here at CAMP Rehoboth—see page 48 for an update on Pride in Progress.

Perhaps working to refocus themselves, many of our contributors turned their attention to notable February events—such as Black History Month. CAMP Rehoboth is celebrating in its gallery with Roots and Resilience: Stories of Strength and Spirit. Turn to page 66 to get a glimpse of some of the art exhibited and make plans to visit the gallery to see more. Sharon Morgan, Stephen Raskauskas, and Ann Aptaker have lots to say about the month, too.

And, here comes Valentine’s Day! Jean McCutcheon responded to our invitation (in the December issue) to submit a Valentine (page 35)—thanks, Jean! Terri Schlichenmeyer tells us how we got from the anatomic heart to that little folded-fingers, thumbs-touching hand gesture. Christopher Moore gets us upto-speed on the holiday’s origins, its commercial success, and the (inevitable) backlash. Galentine’s Day, anyone?

In other news, Rich Barnett tells how inspiring he found a recent visit from a stinkbug—yes, really. It’s not the first such visit he’s—ah—enjoyed; read and relish. Pattie Cinelli found ways to work out even amidst January’s punishing cold and snow; she has ideas the rest of us might want to try. There’s a follow-up to our December column on aging in place (page 88) and you can find Fay Jacobs’s latest Aging Gracelessly column on page 36.

What else? Clarence Fluker reminds us of the power (and pleasure) of good conversations; Kim Leisey writes about speaking up with love. Nancy Sakaduski brings us a piece about the Mardi Gras Indians—it’s a fun (and informative) read. Speaking of fun—here comes Women’s+ FEST! You can read about FEST on page 18, and Mary Jo Tarallo takes us behind the scenes (page 20) for a glimpse at the volunteer effort the event requires.

Thanks for reading Letters! ▼

PRESIDENT Leslie Ledogar

VICE PRESIDENT Teri Seaton

SECRETARY Pat Catanzariti

TREASURER Polly Donaldson

AT-LARGE DIRECTORS

Amanda Mahony Albanese, Wes Combs, Lewis Dawley, Mike DeFlavia, David Garrett, Jenn Harpel, Kim Leisey (non-voting), Michelle Manfredi, Kevin Ussery, and Hope Vella

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Kim Leisey

CAMP REHOBOTH

37 Baltimore Avenue, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 tel 302-227-5620 | email editor@camprehoboth.org www.camprehoboth.org

CAMP Rehoboth,

is available for public inspection.

OPPORTUNITY

Flash Fiction Contest: Closes February 15! See page 17.

Limericks:

May 12 is Limerick Day. To celebrate, we want to publish yours in our May 16 issue (now accepting submissions through Friday, May 2).

Updates to the CAMP Rehoboth Board of Directors

At its January meeting, the CAMP Rehoboth Board of Directors elected Leslie Ledogar as President upon Wes Combs’s decision to step down, and Teri Seaton as Vice President, as Ledogar left that office. Combs will continue to serve as a Board member at-large.

Ledogar boasts a background in Administrative Law, and board and community service. She was nominated to the board in 2021 and served as Board Vice President since January 2022. “It is with great humility and enthusiasm that I assume the role of President. I look forward to continuing to grow CAMP’s legacy with purpose and joy,” said Ledogar.

Meanwhile, Teri Seaton, elected to the Board in January 2023, brings a background in business administration and operations and an enthusiastic history of volunteering for CAMP Rehoboth’s Women’s+ FEST and theater program.

The Board also elected two new members: Kevin Ussery, a member of CAMP Rehoboth’s Prism Young Adults group and a human resources specialist with Beebe Healthcare, and Hope Vella, a fervent volunteer and advocate for accessibility and LGBTQ+ rights. ▼

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

DoMore24

Do More 24 is the DC Metro Area’s largest annual 24-hour online fundraiser, powered by United Way of the National Capital Area (United Way NCA) and Spur Impact. In 2025, Do More 24 will run from 6:00 p.m. on March 6 to 6:00 p.m. on March 7. Along with other local nonprofits, CAMP Rehoboth will participate in this fundraiser. Keep CAMP Rehoboth in your giving plans, and check CAMP Rehoboth’s social media and website for more information on how donations during the upcoming 24-hour period can make a difference. ▼

Protecting Progress

On Thursday, January 16, CAMP Rehoboth hosted “Protecting Progress: A Community Conversation” with over 60 attendees in its Elkins-Archibald Atrium. The event featured panelists Mike Brickner, Delaware Rep. Claire Snyder-Hall, and Delaware Sen. Russell Huxtable. Through this event, community members learned more about what protections are already in place in Delaware for the LGBTQ+ community and how to remain active and engaged in local advocacy. ▼

State-Level LGBTQ+ Commission Formed

Thursday, January 16, 2025, proved to be an auspicious day for Delaware’s LGBTQ+ community, as Governor Bethany Hall-Long signed Executive Order No. 1, with which she established Delaware’s first LGBTQ+ Commission. The Executive Order acknowledges the important contributions of members of the LGBTQ+ community to the state of Delaware and establishes a formal, gubernatorial-sanctioned infrastructure through which individuals, nonprofit organizations, and other interested constituents can continue their work.

The Commission is a product of several Delaware LGBTQ+ Community Leaders Meetings held by then-Lt. Governor Hall-Long, with which CAMP Rehoboth’s Board and Executive Director Kim Leisey participated.

“While Delaware is a safe place for the LGBTQ+ community from a national perspective, we lack infrastructure,” said Hall-Long staffer Lacey Erikson. “We cannot solely lean on our advocates and nonprofits to navigate through hard times. The creation of the LGBTQ+ Commission will provide a state government entity to navigate the issues queer people face and advise the government on how to better deliver services to the LGBTQ+ community.”

In expressing her appreciation of EO No. 1, CAMP Rehoboth Board President Leslie Ledogar emphasized the importance of creating a gubernatorial level commission; she is one of the first nine Commissioners to serve. “Having Governor Hall-Long put this level of infrastructure in place is both a testament to the years of hard work by members of our community, and to the Governor’s deep support of how far we’ve come, and of the work that remains ahead,” she said. “This is a huge step in the right direction, and CAMP Rehoboth looks forward to supporting the Commission in any way we can.” ▼

Pictured at left, CAMP Rehoboth Board President Leslie Ledogar with Governor Bethany Hall-Long.

Pride in Progress: Strategic Plan Outcomes

In early 2024, CAMP Rehoboth set Pride in Progress with its five-year strategic plan, setting four landmark goals. Through participation in the Delaware Alliance for Nonprofit Advancement’s (DANA) Accelerator Program, CAMP Rehoboth has identified strategic outcomes alongside each goal. After introducing outcomes for two goals last issue, here are the remaining:

SUSTAINABLE FUNDING PLAN

→ CAMP Rehoboth’s debt is substantially reduced or eliminated.

→ Program and operational support are strengthened by an increase in the number of grants.

STRENGTHEN BOARD GOVERNANCE AND STAFF LEADERSHIP

→ The CAMP Rehoboth Board of Directors is reflective of the community it serves, representing the diversity and geography of southern Delaware.

→ The community believes the Board is transparent.

→ The Board has attained a nonprofit Management Certificate of Accreditation.

Each outcome is a measurable, actionable step towards the plan’s vision to envision communities in southern Delaware and beyond where all LGBTQ+ people thrive. Stay tuned for more updates related to CAMP Rehoboth’s strategic plan by visiting camprehoboth.org/prideinprogress. ▼

Toy & Clothing Drive— Another Triumph!

When CAMP Rehoboth, the CAMP Rehoboth Outreach Program (CROP), and the Rehoboth Beach Bears partnered for the annual Toy & Clothing Drive, the community once again responded generously. Since 2008, the community drive has supported local organizations, nonprofits, and families in need. This year, there were five recipient organizations: Community Resource Center, Higher Ground Outreach, Orgullo Delaware, People’s Place, West Side New Beginnings, and a special family with needs.

Collections across multiple events and donation centers yielded a total of  V

SPEAKOut

To the Editor:

As I marched down Rehoboth Ave [in the January 18, 2025, People’s March] towards the bandshell, a large SUV with two couples and a number of kids slowed down. Two men in red hats started yelling at me in support of the next president. They were hateful and angry, windows down, making violent gestures.

After they passed and the March continued, I was struck by this moment. Walking with me was an ER nurse who would do anything to help heal them. Beside me was a teacher who would educate their kids, regardless of their political beliefs. Just in front of me was a newly-elected state representative who would help them with their passport application or investigate their tax reassessment. Just behind me was a minister who consuls those troubled or bereaved. At the front of the March I spoke with a local board member of a community center providing free tax prep and medical testing.

Not one of these local professionals and healers would ever ask who you voted for before helping you.

“Speak up, act out.” Now, more than ever.

– Russell Stiles

Send letters to the editor (up to 300 words) to editor@camprehoboth.com

MACHU PICCHU | PERU Donna Dolce

ANTARCTICA (L-R) Richard Gamble, Paul Lindsey

From the Executive Director

Salute the Past; Embrace the Future

Nonprofit organizations play a pivotal role in addressing societal challenges. As a nonprofit, CAMP Rehoboth started with passionate founders (Steve Elkins, Murray Archibald, volunteers, and board) who were driven to make a meaningful difference in Rehoboth Beach. It is my belief that our founders relied heavily on their vision, determination, and resourcefulness to translate an idea into a force for change. Thankfully for all of us, this vision became a reality. It is a foundation for which all of us are grateful.

The growth of CAMP Rehoboth began with our founders’ vision—an idea rooted in addressing the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ people. The vision was driven by personal experience, a deep-seated passion, love for others, and a recognition of a gap in existing services. Our founders clearly articulated CAMP Rehoboth’s core mission. This mission serves as the guiding compass for our long-term strategy as we face societal changes.

For CAMP Rehoboth’s first few decades, the board of directors was a working board. As a newly formed nonprofit, the board provided hands-on support for CAMP Rehoboth’s day-to-day operations, beyond what might be more typical governance and oversight functions. Members of the board led programs, activities, and accounting services. There were few full-time staff members. As CAMP Rehoboth began to take shape, the founders’ leadership became critical in navigating the complexities of establishing an organization. The leadership phase involved developing operational plans, creating a legal and financial structure, and securing initial resources. In the initial stages, this involved a great deal of hands-on work, with the founders often performing multiple roles—visionary, fundraiser, operations manager, and advocate.

One of the key challenges during this phase was fundraising. Unlike for-profit entities, nonprofits rely on donations, grants, and other philanthropic resources to support their activities. The founders, therefore, needed to be effective fund-

raisers, able to convince individuals, businesses, and government entities of the importance and urgency of CAMP Rehoboth’s mission. The cultivation of personal relationships with potential donors and creation of compelling stories about the impact of the organization were paramount.

At this stage, it was also vital for the founders to establish a strong organizational culture that aligned with CAMP Rehoboth’s mission. This culture serves as the foundation for future growth and helps attract like-minded volunteers who are enthusiastic about contributing their time and expertise.

As CAMP Rehoboth evolved from a founders’ led organization, CAMP Rehoboth’s board of directors transitioned from one of hands-on management to strategic leadership. This strategy involves expanding the reach and impact of the organization, which may mean increasing the geographic scope, offering innovative programs, and engaging with a broader demographic.

To support this evolution and growth, the board of directors began to invest in infrastructure, capacity-building, and development of the board of directors. Our three-year enrollment in the Delaware Alliance for Non-Profit Advancement (DANA) Accelerator Program provides consultation and support for our evolution.

Recent changes at CAMP Rehoboth include working with an outside accounting firm to re-do our chart of accounts. This past year we launched a new donor platform. To ensure strong governance and oversight, our board of directors enacted a robust board development plan and met all their goals in 2024. Year two of the Accelerator Program will provide consultation with program evaluation. Establishing robust metrics to track the impact (social, health, and economic) of CAMP Rehoboth’s initiatives is crucial to ensuring our transparency and accountability to donors and stakeholders.

As the board worked to build capacity and infrastructure, CAMP Rehoboth hired a Deputy Director in April 2024. New in

BY KIM LEISEY, PHD

2025, thanks to the generosity of anonymous donors, CAMP Rehoboth will hire an Event and Volunteer Coordinator as well as a part-time administrative support person.

We will continue to focus on creating partnerships with other organizations, government agencies, and businesses. These collaborations can help expand our reach and resources, thereby enabling more significant social change in areas such as LGBTQ+ healthcare, aging services, safety, and support of youth. Strategic partnerships also allow us to leverage external expertise, broaden service offerings, and reduce duplication of efforts.

In today’s fast-changing world we must meet the challenge of sustaining impact over the long term. We must think beyond short-term success and plan for financial and organizational sustainability. This involves creating diverse and reliable revenue streams, engaging our donor base, and focusing on long-term strategies for impact. We must negotiate the delicate balance of maintaining our mission-driven focus while adapting to changing social, economic, and political environments. We must stay attuned to shifts in societal needs, technology, and funding landscapes. We must commit to continuous learning and adaptability in response to emerging challenges.

The evolution of CAMP Rehoboth is a journey that is driven by passionate people, strategic vision, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. From the initial spark of an idea to the scaling of operations and the quest for sustainability, the evolution of CAMP Rehoboth plays an indispensable role in shaping the course of social change. Our success lies in our ability to adapt, innovate, and stay focused on the needs of our community, ensuring that the founders’ legacy of service and impact endures. We are happy that you are here because CAMP Rehoboth is here. Thank you! ▼

Kim Leisey, PhD, is Executive Director of CAMP Rehoboth.

WE RAISED $19,740 ON GIVING TUESDAY

WE RAISED $19,740 ON GIVING TUESDAY

WE RAISED $50,473 FOR OUR ANNUAL CAMPAIGN WE RAISED $50,473 FOR OUR ANNUAL CAMPAIGN

SPECIAL THANKS TO JENNIFER RUBENSTEIN, DIANE

SPECIAL THANKS TO JENNIFER RUBENSTEIN, DIANE SCOBEY, AND OUR ANONYMOUS DONORS FOR THEIR SCOBEY, AND OUR ANONYMOUS DONORS FOR THEIR

GENEROUS MATCHING GIFTS THAT INSPIRED 278 DONORS

GENEROUS MATCHING GIFTS THAT INSPIRED 278 DONORS TO SUPPORT CAMP REHOBOTH. TO SUPPORT CAMP REHOBOTH.

OUTGOING PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE BY

WESLEY COMBS

An Honor and a Privilege

When I sat down to write my final column as Board President of CAMP Rehoboth, all sorts of ideas were floating in my head to summarize what the last three years have been like for me personally. Did I want to say something philosophical? Or should I incorporate humor to avoid taking the process too seriously (something I have been accused of before if you know what I mean)?

My marketing-degree trained brain is wired a certain way when it comes to communicating an idea or a concept. No matter what option I considered, there was an approach that kept on bubbling to the top: What would I want the reader to learn about me and my experience after reading this column? In other words, what do I hope to be remembered for—what was my impact?

One way to find this answer is by using an executive coaching technique known as visioning which refers to the practice of guiding your client to actively imagine and articulate their desired future state, by creating a clear mental picture of their goals and aspirations. This can then be used as a powerful motivator to drive action and progress towards achieving them.

Knowing what motivates you to be your best self helps you visualize success in detail, making it feel more attainable. Having this “North Star” equips you with a framework to use when creating mutually beneficial relationships. When we partner with others who share our values, the experience is likely to be easier—and more importantly, more fulfilling.

Speaking personally, the following phrase perfectly sums up this concept when pursuing my dreams: “When you understand your purpose, the possibilities are endless.” For me, that also means playing an active role in contributing to the greater good in my community.

When reflecting upon the past three years, I decided to re-read my very first column as president of the board to help provide some perspective. To my

surprise, what I said then still holds true today. I hope these insights serve more as lessons learned; they should not be interpreted as prescriptive tips for those who assume leadership roles in the future.

It is often said that leadership is not an individual sport but the work of a welloiled team.

I ended my January 28, 2022, column saying: “As I embark on my new role, here are some of the lessons I have learned along the way to help guide the way:

• CAMP Rehoboth’s interests are the priority, not mine: Good decisions are based on data, facts, and not emotion. Leverage knowledge and expertise from those on the front lines when assessing a situation.

• You must believe in what the organization does: My passion for enabling equity and opportunity in communities where I live guarantees I have the energy and attention necessary to stay the course. The privilege to work alongside the amazing staff at CAMP Rehoboth reinforces this every day.

• Having a clear vision aligns all stakeholders towards the same goal: CAMP Rehoboth cannot be everything to everyone. The needs of our community are constantly changing, which requires assessing what we do and if we are providing the right services in the most cost-effective way.”

Let me be clear: these are not Wesisms but instead tried and true approaches that have guided countless leaders who came before me as they navigated through life’s constantly changing circumstances. Unfortunately, the shifting political environment following the recent election is a stark reminder that our work is never done.

Perhaps more than ever before in my lifetime, the safety and security of LGBTQ+ people is under attack at in the workplace, marketplace, and at home. Despite these very real threats, one thing remains constant—our community will not sit back and be complacent. As was the case during the height of the AIDS epidemic, the life-affirming support provided by organizations like CAMP Rehoboth will literally save lives—especially for those at greatest risk.

It is often said that leadership is not an individual sport but the work of a well-oiled team. I owe a debt of gratitude to my fellow board members who have remained steadfast, strengthening CAMP Rehoboth’s fiscal health and overall governance so it can weather the storm ahead. Words cannot express the depth of my appreciation for our dedicated staff, volunteers, and donors whose contributions of time, talent, and treasure ensure CAMP Rehoboth continues to be a beacon of hope when people need it the most.

It has been an honor and privilege to serve alongside such passionate and committed members of the CAMP Rehoboth Executive Committee: Leslie Ledogar, Pat Catanzariti, Polly Donaldson, and our fearless leader, Kim Leisey. I want to also congratulate Leslie Ledogar on becoming the Board’s new President, and Teri Seaton on becoming Board Vice President.

I leave you with this quote from Dan Rather in a recent interview about his time at CBS News: “The closest you can do about legacy is not think about your work; think what you did as a person, those important questions of, Who am I, Why am I here, what can I contribute? Those are the important questions, not how well one did or didn’t do [in their work].” ▼

Wesley Combs is the outgoing President of the CAMP Rehoboth Board.

INCOMING PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE BY

LESLIE LEDOGAR

The Peaceful Transition of Power A Letter in the Resolute Desk

On the eve of his last day as President of the CAMP Rehoboth Board of Directors, outgoing President Wes Combs left in my email the equivalent of the letter that outgoing American presidents traditionally leave for their successors in the top drawer of the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office of the White House. While not comparing the transition in Board president to that of American presidents, I was nonetheless moved to the core by Wes’s thoughtfulness, encouragement, and sage advice, as we peacefully transition the role of president, from one to the other.

Among the 10 pieces of advice that Wes offered in his letter, the one that stands out to me as it applies to him is “Leave a Legacy.” I truly believe that Wes has lived up to that piece of advice through his leadership of our organization.

Wes’s energy, intelligence, focus, and dedication have been invaluable as we embarked on several major projects during his tenure. We conducted a search for a new Executive Director and successfully onboarded her. We also completed development of our strategic plan for 2025-2028. Finally, we brought ourselves up to par in nonprofit best practices and ended 2024 by far outpacing our fundraising goals. Wes’s legacy rests in the immense value that he has added to the Board, and for that we are forever indebted to him.

It is therefore with a grateful heart and an abiding sense of humility that I am stepping up as the next President of CAMP Rehoboth’s Board of Directors. This is a monumental responsibility with big shoes to fill. That said, the foundation that Wes, Kim, our Board, and our exemplary staff and volunteers have established is strong and resilient.

As the rights of LGBTQ+ persons are placed on the Federal chopping block, I intend as President to stand tall and strong and to lead by example. I antici-

pate focusing on what I am calling “The Triple A’s: Advocacy, Agility, and Action.”

ADVOCACY→ Fielding a surge in queries in advance of the 2024 presidential election, our Executive Director, Kim Leisey, formed CAMP’s Advocacy Corps. Staffed by volunteers, this small group fielded numerous requests for major research and for testimony (both written and oral) at Legislative Hall in Dover and on the national stage. This is in addition to the numerous media requests that our staff fields on a weekly basis.

We must fight what harms us and we must continue investing in what heals us.

Going forward, we may need to expand this committee in anticipation of receiving even more queries as the rights of our community are attacked at the national level. We anticipate proactively engaging and partnering with like-minded organizations to enshrine those rights in Delaware by Constitutional amendment, supporting and attaching our signature to national initiatives that are pushing back on the federal attack, and fielding what we anticipate will be an upsurge in queries from our community.

AGILITY → Since we have such a strong foundation, it is now possible for the Board and our organization to become more agile. Through our mission and vision statements, we are clear on who we are, and thanks to our Strategic Plan, we are clear about our path going forward. Operating from a position of strength, we also have the institutional self-confidence and knowledge to react to whatever may come at us with agility and grace.

We will also be looking at new ways to draw on the strengths of our community members, and to diversify our funding sources. Growth for growth’s sake is pointless, but smart growth is purposeful and healthy.

ACTION → We will also be action oriented. It is now time to take advantage of the strength of our Board to address long-range goals and alternatives. Whether through new ad hoc committees of the Board or new volunteer opportunities, we will be exploring how best to add value to the Board, our community center, and our community at large.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. reminded us that “this country needs a radical revolution of values.” We must fight what harms us and we must continue investing in what heals us. When our community invests in CAMP Rehoboth, it can be assured that CAMP Rehoboth will be able to reinvest back into our community.

To Wes, thank you for your leadership and your letter of advice and encouragement. To Kim, our Board, our staff, our members, and our volunteers, thank you for a great 2024 and here’s to an even better 2025. To our readers, please consider becoming a new or recurring member, joining a committee, or just offering some advice.

I look forward to all of us joining together to make 2025 a banner year for CAMP Rehoboth and the LGBTQ+ communities it serves. We are in this together. ▼

Leslie Ledogar is the incoming President of the CAMP Rehoboth Board.

CAMPNews

Theater Program Kicks Off New Season

CAMP Rehoboth Theatre Company kicks off its 2025 season with two exciting productions:

The Inaugural CAMP Rehoboth Poetry Jam

CAMP Rehoboth’s Elkins-Archibald Atrium; Friday, February 21, 7:00 p.m., and Saturday, February 22, 3:00 p.m. Tickets $20 at camprehoboth.org.

Directed and produced by Kelly Sheridan, the Jam will feature 12 dynamic poets sharing their personal stories, powerful verses, and unique voices. The Jam will be a celebration of diversity, identity, and the beauty of community, with a brief intermission to relax, enjoy light refreshments, and connect with others.

CAMP Rehoboth Poetry Jam Poets/ Performers include: Debbie Bricker, Kari Ebert, Shelley Blue Grabel, Lavance John, Vanita Leatherwood, Syd Linders, Ellie Maher, Jane Miller, Gwen Osborne, Coco Silveira, Guillermo Silverira, Laura Unruh, Paul Unruh, and Sherri Wright.

5 Lesbians Eating a Quiche

CAMP Rehoboth’s Elkins-Archibald Atrium; March 7-9. Tickets $25 at camprehoboth.org. Back by popular demand, this show first debuted at CAMP Rehoboth in fall 2022. It features returning cast members Karen Laitman, Kelly Sheridan, Gwen Osborne, Darcy Vollero, and Shelley Kingsbury; it is directed by Teri Seaton.

The absurdist comedy follows the Susan B. Anthony Society for the Sisters of Gertrude Stein, enjoying their annual quiche breakfast in 1956. As the assembled “widows” await the announcement of the society's prize-winning quiche, the atomic bomb sirens sound! Winner of the 2012 NYC International Fringe Festival as Best Overall Production, 5 Lesbians Eating a Quiche offers laughs, sexual innuendos, unsuccessful repressions, and delicious discoveries.

This program is supported in part by a grant from the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state agency, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts. The Division promotes Delaware arts events on DelawareScene.com.

For needs related to accessibility, please contact accessibility@ camprehoboth.org. ▼

Pictured above: The cast of 5 Lesbians Eating a Quiche performs at the CAMP Rehoboth stage in 2022.

Thank You, Sharon Marquart!

CAMP

Rehoboth’s Women In Circle is a twice-monthly gathering of LGBTQ+ women. It is a welcoming, inclusive, and positive place to meet, connect, and share with other women in a queer and trans-affirming space. This winter, holistic life coach Sharon Marquart stepped down from her facilitator role. “During the four and a half years I volunteered as facilitator, I have been richly blessed in the opportunity to use my skills for the expansion of CAMP Rehoboth’s reputation in the LGBTQ+ community. I retire from Women in Circle with many good friends and acquaintances for a lifetime,” said Sharon. Please join CAMP Rehoboth in thanking Sharon and wishing her well in her next chapter! ▼

Have a Heart, and Donate Blood This Valentine’s

CAMP Rehoboth is partnering with the Blood Bank of Delmarva for another blood drive on Friday, February 14, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. To learn more about donating blood, including restrictions for individuals who are taking—or have recently been taking— PrEP, visit camprehoboth.org/events. This Valentine’s Day, CAMP Rehoboth encourages community members to donate. Register online at camprehoboth.org/events. ▼

Learning About Welcoming Schools And How the Arts Can Model Change

On February 18, CAMP Rehoboth and Clear Space Theatre invite you to learn more about the Welcoming Schools program, a data-driven, comprehensive bullying prevention program developed by the Human Rights Campaign and piloted at Cape Henlopen School District. Dr. Michael Young (Supervisor of Secondary Education) and Amanda Archambault (Supervisor of Elementary Education) will discuss the program and lead participants in one of the activities from the program.

The Welcoming Schools program is recognized as one of the most comprehensive bias-based bullying

prevention programs in the nation. The program provides LGBTQ+ and gender-inclusive professional development training, lesson plans, book lists, and resources specifically designed for educators and youth-serving professionals.

Additionally, Joe Gfaller, Managing Director at Clear Space Theatre, will speak about the production Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, and how the show and the arts illustrate support for the work that is happening in the Cape Henlopen School District.

Register for this program online at camprehoboth.org/ events. ▼

Addressing a Crisis of Hope

BY MATTY BROWN

A Slingshot Moment

In November, Delaware voted Representative Sarah McBride into the US Congress. She made history as the first transgender elected Congressperson in the nation. The Representative brings a solutions-oriented approach to issues facing her constituents, and is not distracted by obsessive identity politics, bathroom debates, nor discrimination in her wake. McBride boasts years of experience as a Delaware State Senator, advocate, and changemaker to work for a better tomorrow among all Americans.

During the first week of the new presidential administration, Letters caught up with Congresswoman McBride to talk about how to harness hope in the current climate and what policy priorities she’s focused on going forward.

MATTY BROWN: You said recently that the nation is in a crisis of hope. Could you elaborate on what you mean, and how can we harness hope in this next chapter?

SARAH MCBRIDE: I have long said that I think this nation faces a crisis of hope. It is a crisis of hope rooted in the fear that we no longer have the individual or collective capacity to meet the scope and the scale of the challenges that we face. It is a crisis of hope rooted in the insecurities facing so many workers and families right now and the feeling that the government doesn’t see that pain or is not responding to nor addressing that pain. For some, that crisis of hope has been taken advantage of by authoritarian wannabes. For others, that crisis of hope has led them to give up on participating in our politics at all.

I believe that the only way for us to truly address that crisis of hope is to build a government that respects everyone by delivering for all of us. The only way we can address that crisis of hope is to come together and address the issues that make anyone feel despondent, hopeless, or excluded—whether that’s working people who are struggling under the

high cost of living; whether that’s residents who fear discrimination or hatred; whether that’s a young person who fears that they will be the first generation for whom their adulthood is not better than the previous generation’s. There are so many different reasons for hopelessness, unfortunately, right now. But it is critical that we have a government that functions and works together to actually address issues to solve that crisis of hope and to improve people’s lives.

MB: The LGBTQ+ community in Delaware faces uncertainties and challenges ahead. What assurances could you share with us?

SM: I have heard from so many LGBTQ+ constituents who are fearful about what lies ahead, and who are scared about the new administration and the actions that we’ve already started to see.

First, as someone who served in the State legislature, LGBTQ+ Delawareans continue to have a state government that has their back, that sees them, that loves them, and that is defending their rights. We are lucky to have Governor Matt Meyer, Lieutenant Governor Kyle Evans Gay, and pro-equality majorities in both chambers of the Delaware General Assembly who are committed to protecting our

progress in Delaware and more fully living up to our values as a state of neighbors, including for our LGBTQ+ residents.

But there is a clear and concerted effort to roll back the clock on our nation’s progress by the new administration, and these are policies that will sadly have consequences for LGBTQ+ people and non-LGBTQ+ people in red states and blue states alike. I know that my colleagues here in Congress, within the Democratic caucus, share a commitment to equal rights and will continue to stand up for LGBTQ+ people in their districts and around the country.

But the sad reality is that this is going to be a difficult couple of years. One thing I do take comfort in is that as a community, it has always been in our biggest challenges that we take our most significant steps forward. And two, that this crisis of hope that we are feeling is not new in America. Previous generations have faced similar crises of hope. They have faced similar challenges—in fact, challenges much greater than the ones we face as a country right now. They had every reason to believe that change would not come. They had every reason to fear discrimination at the hands of their

Continued on page 16

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Continued from page 14

government. But they didn’t fall prey to cynicism. They didn’t give up. They didn’t lose their hope. In fact, they summoned it, they found the light, and they changed the world.

I truly believe that we have the capacity in this moment—yes, facing real harm and dangerous policies from the new administration—to continue to summon our hope and to turn this moment into a slingshot moment—as an advocate from Florida once called it—which is a moment where, yes we are pulled backward, but the pressure and tension of being pulled backwards ultimately propels us to destinations where we have not yet been.

MB: What is motivating your work and priorities of advocating for the working class, expanding access to healthcare, and reproductive rights, among others, on your platform?

SM: I ran my campaign on the issues that I know were top of mind for so many Delawareans: the cost of living and building an economy that works for everyone. Those were my priorities in the Delaware State Senate, where I lowered the cost of certain prescription drugs, and helped expand

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access to critical care in underserved communities, including rural parts of Delaware. Where I passed paid family and medical leave and secured the largest ongoing investment in our State’s Medicaid program since the Affordable Care Act passed. I was able to do that work with near constant bipartisan support: nearly every bill that I introduced in Delaware passed with bipartisan support.

I am continuing to work on those issues in Congress and continuing to work with that collaborative spirit here. In that vein, I became the first freshman Democrat to introduce legislation this Congress—bipartisan legislation in fact—that provides critical consumer protections to Delawareans and Americans from predatory practices by so-called credit repair organizations. That’s just step one, though. I’m continuing to advocate for policies that’ll bring down the cost of housing, healthcare, and childcare here in the United States. I’m continuing to advocate to build on our progress in Delaware by passing paid family and medical leave nationwide. And I continue to advocate for a higher minimum wage here in Congress, so that

workers across this country, including in Delaware, can get a raise. Those are my priorities. Those are the issues that I continue to push forward. Our work will not be done until we make the American dream affordable and accessible for everyone.

MB: What’s the best way that your constituents can engage with you?

SM: People can certainly always email or call our offices. Information is available on our website: mcbride.house.gov. And of course, I am always out and about in Delaware and encourage folks to share their thoughts and feedback, their concerns and priorities, with me in person as I am at events across Delaware in Sussex, Kent, and New Castle Counties. But in real-time, feel free to reach out to our offices through the website, where all of the contact information is available. ▼

Matty Brown is the Communications Manager for CAMP Rehoboth and Editorial Associate for Letters.

Pictured on page 14: L-R: Rep. Sarah McBride, Sen. Chris Coon, Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester during swearing in ceremonies. Courtesy of the Office of Congresswoman Sarah McBride.

Deadline for Submissions: February 15, 2025

Letters from CAMP Rehoboth Launches Its Inaugural Flash Fiction Contest

THE BASICS

► Original fiction, 300 to 1,000 words

► Timely submitted to flashfiction@ camprehoboth.org

► Target audience: adult or young adult readers

THE REWARDS

► Monetary awards (ranging from $1,000 to $250) to First-, Second-, and Third-place winners, plus two Honorable Mentions

► Public reading at the Elkins-Archibald Atrium, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

► Publication (First Place) in Letters from CAMP Rehoboth

THE DETAILS

Go to camprehoboth.org/letters for Writers’ Guidelines

THE FINE PRINT ► Members of CAMP Rehoboth sta , its Board of Directors, or the Readers Panel are not eligible to compete.

 Check the website often for updates—who knows what speakers, activities, and entertainers may be in store and you don’t want to miss out!

In the midst of snow, slush, and seasonal somnolence, it may seem like the “S” in FEST (for Spring) is a long way from the “F” (for Fun). In fact, Women’s+ FEST will be here quickly, so now is the time to make your plans.

ACTION STEPS

 If you don’t already have a place to stay, book yourself a hotel room—they go faasssst. Women’s+ FEST is partnering with The Atlantic Sands to give you a 15 percent discount on your standard overnight room rate. NOTE: The discount can only be redeemed by booking your stay by phone. Call (302) 227-2511.

 Keep a sharp eye on the website (camprehoboth.org/womensfest) so you can get your FEST passes and tickets as soon as they become available.

 Make a plan—who are you going with (or are you planning to make friends once you arrive)? Which events will you attend? Where will you eat (do they take reservations)?

THE “E” IS FOR ENTERTAINMENT

Be Steadwell (they, she, he, Be) is a queer pop composer and storyteller from Washington DC. Be composes songs on stage using looping, vocal layering, and beat boxing. Their original music features earnest lyricism and affirming queer content. Be’s goal as a musician is to make other Black girls, introverts, and weirdos feel seen and loved.

Gwen La Roka is without a doubt a rising star of stand-up. She hit the comedy scene with an explosive energy that quickly won the hearts of her audiences and led to performances at world-famous comedy clubs such as The Laugh Factory, Zanies, and The Improv. Her honest co

medic approach, meshed with her physical humor, has crowds of all ages and backgrounds laughing at life, together. Other entertainers include returning favorites GirlsRoom and DJ Peggy Castle at the big Saturday night dance, Christine Havrilla, Mama’s Black Sheep, Regina Sayles, Tret Fure, and comedian Poppy Champlin.

THE + MEANS YOU

The plus sign is a signal that the 2025 Women’s+ FEST will be inclusive. The event’s new name and logo is to emphasize that FEST is one of the best events on the East Coast for women, both trans and cis, nonbinary folks, and those that live on the spectrum of the feminine spirit. If you or your companion have any needs related to accessibility, please contact accessibility@ camprehoboth.org. ▼

Pictured L-R: Be Steadwell, Gwen La Roka

Queer pop artist and storyteller from Washington, DC

Women’s + FEST

LISTEN!

To the moving music of Be Steadwell! LAUGH!

Gwen La Roka at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center! PLAY!

Golf, pickleball, bike ride, cornhole, bowling, and more!

DANCE!

Thursday Georgette Krenkel’s Kick Off Party, and Saturday night dance!

EXPERIENCE!

The speaker series and author showcase returns TBA!

DISCOVER!

Popular craft expo, bingo, singles mixer, art show, and more!

PLUS “+”

FEST is one of the best events on the East Coast for women, both trans and cis, nonbinary folks, and those that live on the spectrum of the feminine spirit.

BOOK YOUR STAY! Visit camprehoboth.org for hotel discounts when you call in and mention “Women’s+ FEST” at your booking.

For more information about Women’s+ FEST and accessibility information, visit camprehoboth.org.

To learn about sponsorship opportunities, contact Laurie Thompson at laurie@camprehoboth.org.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Women’s+ FEST 2025’s Volunteers

CAMP Rehoboth’s Women’s+ FEST is one of the biggest events of the year for the organization and a spring mega-weekend for all who attend. It convenes April 10-13. “Women’s FEST has come a long way from its start in 2000,” says long-time supporter Fay Jacobs.

Last year’s FEST drew more than 4,000 participants. It’s a BIG deal not only for CAMP Rehoboth, but also for the community at large and local businesses.

One thing is clear: Were it not for the support and contagious enthusiasm among its volunteers (of which there were 180 in 2024!), Women’s+ FEST probably would not exist. Various committee chairs drive the train and committee members spend countless hours planning and executing four days of sporting events, workshops, speakers, entertainment, and social activities. Their collective talents create a unique event for those attending from far and near.

“It takes a team of great people to put on such an event,” said Michelle Manfredi, whose duties include the drag brunch, marketing, silent disco, and bingo. “FEST has so much to offer everyone. We bring a diverse group of people together to share music, laughs, sports, education, literature, and more. It’s awesome to hear returning supporters tell me about all the lifelong friendships they’ve made here.”

Lewes’s Connie Fox chairs the sports committee that serves up a full menu of golf, pickleball, corn hole, and bowling. She joined CAMP Rehoboth when she moved here 10 years ago. “We have a team of volunteers running each of our sporting events,” she explained. “Kathy Solano and I coordinate those events.”

Nancy Hewish got Fox involved in Women’s FEST. She knew Fox had been a coach and athletics director and asked her to chair the committee. Fox says sports are an important part of FEST. “Many in our community are athletes and understand that participating in sports

is a great way to meet people, to be healthy and active, and to have fun.”

Another 2025 chair, Karen Laitman, hails from New York City but moved to Wilmington, Delaware in 1996. She visited Rehoboth for the first time that year, fell in love with it, and relocated in 2008. She plans to retire here.

Women’s+ FEST…brings a diverse group of people together to share music, laughs, sports, education, literature, and more.

She believes the many social events that CAMP Rehoboth offers, including Women’s+ FEST, are an important element in building relationships, fostering community, enhancing personal connections, and creating a sense of belonging. “It’s a great way to learn about different cultures, lifestyles, and perspectives, and to become more accepting of our differences as we interact during FEST events.”

Laitman got involved with FEST when she submitted a piece of art for the FEST exhibit in 2017. Now, she heads up the dances and singles opportunities, and works closely with other volunteers. She salutes CAMP’s “very small yet mighty” staff and executive director who steer the course, but notes that FEST needs volunteers to “get the driving done.” Christa Marks and her wife moved

BY MARY JO TARALLO

to Rehoboth in September of 2020. They started attending CAMP Rehoboth events as they worked to get involved with the large LGBTQ+ community.

“Women’s+ FEST is a magical time when women, and those who support us, can come together to celebrate the start of spring,” Marks said. She handles the Friday night event. Marks agrees that FEST offers a chance for everyone to unite in sports, song, dance, music, and culture. Attendees can learn new things—and learn about each other—in the safe spaces that CAMP Rehoboth and its volunteers create.

“Being a volunteer can be as little or as big a commitment as you wish. Helping in any way is rewarding,” she said. “Even those of us with health issues and disabilities can still be a part of something important and offer what we can. We are valued as an important member of the CAMP family.”

Lissa Dulany moved to the area in 2022. The native Marylander lived elsewhere for almost 50 years. When she returned to her roots, her friends encouraged her to come “across the bridge.” She did, claiming, “there’s salt water in my veins.”

Volunteering is also in her blood. She landed at CAMP Rehoboth, seeking some like-minded people, and quickly got involved with Women’s FEST 2023, helping organize all the volunteers and meeting folks. This year she is coordinating the speakers, the Expo, and other details that keep the group on track.

“Even though CAMP staff is involved in the administrative details (contracts, insurance, etc.), volunteers are the heart and soul of FEST events,” she said. “AND—if you haven’t figured it out already—a great way to meet folks.” ▼

Mary Jo Tarallo is a former journalist and public relations professional for various nonprofits. She won a Gold Award for a United Way TV program starring Oprah Winfrey.

outweighs Experience uncertainty.

TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER

You Gotta Have 6

Athletes do it. Influencers do it. So do swoony teenagers, grateful grandmas, blushing brides, and maybe you: that thing where it’s elbows out, thumbs together, and curl your fingers touching to make a heart-shaped symbol. It’s immediately understood, ubiquitous, and possibly overused.

But the big question is, how did we go from the pump in your chest, to lace-bordered sappy keepsakes, to a kindergarten cut-out with a pointy bottom, to fingers?

Let’s start with this: at first, there were a lot of odd beliefs about the thing in our bodies that pumps from before our birth until we die, beating roughly 100,000 times a day, more than 2.5 billion times in an average lifetime. Ancient civilizations recognized that the heart was what kept all creatures alive but for humans, they also attributed additional things to it.

In particular, they thought the heart was the seat of the emotions, thoughts, and the soul, and the place from which personality and identity sprang. The Egyptians thought that preservation of the heart was essential for a person’s afterlife. The Greeks believed that body heat came from the heart. Many early cultures thought that a person’s heart was vastly more important than their brain.

The jump from the pump in your body to the pointy-ended shape seems to have taken a few centuries, and the pathway still isn’t completely clear.

Historians have grappled with how

this 6 became synonymous with the human heart, but it’s thought that ancient societies first used the heart-shape for decoration. From there, in the late 1200s, it became a symbol of love for the French, possibly because the shape evoked ivy leaves, which were linked to fidelity, or fig leaves, which supposedly called to mind erotic parts of the body. One theory suggests that the heart shape came from the shape of the seeds of a plant that ancient Romans and Greeks used for contraceptives.

Today…more than 145 million Valentines are sent each year.

Others say that plants had nothing to do with it, that Aristotle described the human heart as having two lobes and a “dent.” Some point to a Catholic artist’s rendition of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Or it’s also possible that the shape was created by Medieval artists who botched copies of ancient anatomical text.

However it entered the world’s culture, by middle of the 14th century, Italy had wholeheartedly embraced the heart shape. As the Renaissance (14th to 17th centuries) took hold around Europe, the shape became a firm and fully-acknowledged symbol of love and romance.

In Victorian times (the mid-1800s to early 1900s), when societal rules controlled courtship and marriage, the heart shape became a Valentine, but not always a good one: there were Valentines,

and then there were “Vinegar Valentines,” which were insulting cards sent to people who were uncouth, unliked, and unwanted.

Hallmark sold its first mass-produced Valentine’s Day card in 1913.

At that point, V-Day was for grownups and those swoony teens; schoolchildren didn’t pay much attention to American Valentine’s Day until the 1930s, when schools became less formal. That’s where your average construction-paper Valentine began because any kid can fold a piece of paper in half and cut it with scissors.

Today, not including the classroom cards that those kiddoes give out in school, more than 145 million Valentines are sent each year. In America, by the way, we spend more than $2 billion on Valentine candy. I like caramels. Just saying.

Other fun facts: not quite 60 years ago, the heart symbol became a word, with the “I 6 NY” t-shirts. It’s considered very lucky to find a heart-shaped rock. And that finger-symbol that’s so familiar? It came from South Korea in the late ‘90s when K-Pop stars began using it to show love to their fans, and it was everywhere by about 15 years ago because everybody knows what it means and it’s not “heart” to do. ▼

Terri Schlichenmeyer’s third book, The Book of Facts and Trivia: Science, came out in September 2024.

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health+wellness

Cultural Neglect

I have walked this earth Black, Queer, and HIV positive.

–MYKKI BLANCO

In 1981, the New York Times reported on a rare cancer outbreak among 41 homosexual men. By 1990, 8 million people worldwide had been identified as being infected by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the pathogen that causes the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). At that time, the diagnosis of HIV/ AIDS was a death sentence.

However, in the mid-1990s, antiretroviral medications were developed and by the late 1990s AIDS-related deaths in developed countries began to fall, due to antiretroviral therapy (ART). Today, of the 40 million people worldwide living with HIV, 86 percent know their status and 77 percent are in treatment. In addition, since their approval in 2012, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medications have proven highly effective in mitigating HIV virus transfer during sex or through intravenous (IV) drug use.

While the past 40 years of HIV care in many ways have been a success story, racial, gender, and cultural disparities highlight that not all have benefitted equally. According to the US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS), approximately 40 million individuals worldwide have HIV or AIDS, including 1.4 million children under the age of 15.

Women and girls represent over half of all individuals living with HIV globally. Gender inequalities and violence toward females increase a woman’s vulnerability to acquiring HIV.

Other marginalized groups also have higher risks for acquiring HIV. People who identify as transgender are 14 times more likely to have HIV than the general population; men who have sex with men (MSM) are 11 times more likely; those that inject drugs are seven times more likely; and sex workers are four times more likely.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the US new incidence rate of HIV has remained steady at about 38,000 per year since 2018. However, over 50 percent of

all cases occur in the South, where 59 percent of the Black population resides. While Blacks account for 14 percent of the US population, they represent 37 percent of new cases annually.

Heterosexual Black males and Blacks who identify as gay, bisexual, or transgender all lead their respective categories in annual incidence of new HIV cases. They are also more likely to report unemployment, unstable housing, and food insecurity than their White or Hispanic counterparts.

In Delaware, approximately 3,500 individuals are living with HIV. As with national statistics, Delaware’s Black community carries a disproportionate disease burden. Most alarming, a Black female in the First State is 13 times more likely than her White counterpart to acquire HIV and 75 percent of transmission for Black females occurs through heterosexual sex. Black males in Delaware are four times more likely to contract HIV than White males, with most of the disease transference occurring among MSM.

The response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic reflects not only a new era in global public health awareness and cooperation but underscores how stigma can shape response to a global health threat. The early lessons of the outbreak highlighted the interrelationship between research and application, with a constant focus on communication and adaptation to an evolving public health crisis.

Many US and European universities established HIV research and training collaboratives in developing countries. As a result, professionals in low- and middle-income countries now feel empowered to directly influence the health of the populations they serve.

Other lasting health platforms also have been built between developed and developing countries. For example, in maternal health, HIV vertical transmission between mother and child is now almost non-existent. Launched in 2003, the US Administration’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) represents the largest commitment by any nation to address a single disease. As of the end of 2023, PEPFAR had provided HIV testing

BY SHARON MORGAN

for more than 71.1 million people and supported ART for nearly 20.5 million adults and children.

HIV stigma, however, remains a real barrier to care, particularly for marginalized groups, such as MSM, sex workers, individuals who identify as transgender,

Heterosexual Black males and Blacks who identify as gay, bisexual, or transgender all lead their respective categories in annual incidence of new HIV cases.

and individuals who use IV drugs. The US legal system historically penalized homosexual activity, viewing it as aberrant and worthy of discrimination. Hence, when MSM was the initial population identified as vulnerable to HIV/AIDS, little sympathy or action was generated to address the crisis. In the first decade of HIV, 35 states passed laws criminalizing any act that could potentially transfer the virus.

While the resultant backlash and activism led to landmark decisions to improve access to HIV care, marginalized groups still face barriers to care. For example, HIV criminal laws continue to be used disproportionately against Black MSM. This—coupled with a high concentration of the Black population in states that don’t value public health initiatives as highly— have exacerbated an already poor health outcome.

In 2019, the US launched Ending the HIV Epidemic in the US (EHE) initiative, focused on reducing the number of new HIV infections by 90 percent by 2030. Current HIV data suggests new HIV infections occur in a limited number of counties and among specific populations. The goal of the initiative is to focus critical resources on those areas centered around four key strategies:

• The first two interrelated strategies are to diagnose early and get individu-

als into care. Those in high-risk groups should be tested routinely. ART is highly effective, and when taken properly, the medications lead to viral suppression, preventing viral transmission.

• The third strategy is prevention. Not only is there ART, but the newer PrEP medications can reduce the risk of getting HIV up to 99 percent of the time when taken as prescribed. In addition, syringe services programs have been

You Gotta Have Heart…

It’s American Heart Month! Spearheaded by the American Heart Association, this annual event emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy heart and educates individuals on how to reduce the risks of heart-related illnesses. Heart health is a critical aspect of overall well-being for everyone. Understanding heart health is especially important for members of the LGBTQ+ community, who may face unique challenges that can impact their cardiovascular health.

For example, many LGBTQ+ individuals experience a higher prevalence of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) compared to their cisgender and heterosexual counterparts. Some of these risk factors include:

Chronic stress—can lead to hypertension, an increased risk of heart attacks, and other cardiovascular issues.

Smoking—studies indicate that LGBTQ+ adults are more likely to smoke cigarettes—a major risk factor for CVD— than heterosexual adults.

Dietary habits and physical activity levels—LGBTQ+ individuals may face barriers to participating in traditional fitness spaces due to fear of discrimination or discomfort in gender-segregated environments. They may also engage in emotional eating and lead a sedentary life.

proven to dramatically reduce HIV risk through clean needle access and can provide an entry point for services to stop drug use.

• The final strategy is real time response systems to HIV outbreaks, mitigating further transmissions and reinforcing existing policies.

Each February, Black History Month is celebrated. In addition, in the beginning of February, a day is devoted to

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness. This February 7th let’s remember that HIV is still there and still very real, and commit to engage, educate, and empower to ensure all have an equitable chance at a healthy life. ▼

Sharon A. Morgan is a retired advanced practice nurse with over 30 years of clinical and healthcare policy background.

LET’S STAY CONNECTED!

Mental health—LGBTQ+ individuals report higher rates of anxiety and depression; mental health is linked to heart health.

Treatment side effects—Transgender individuals often face unique challenges related to gender-affirming treatments. For example, some forms of estrogen used in transfeminine individuals may increase the risk of blood clots, while testosterone therapy in transmasculine individuals may alter lipid profiles, raising concerns about cholesterol and heart disease.

Access to healthcare—Many LGBTQ+ individuals report facing discrimination in healthcare settings, which can discourage them from seeking medical care.

Systemic inequities—Lower rates of insurance coverage and economic instability among LGBTQ+ individuals may limit access to preventive care. Routine check-ups, blood pressure monitoring, and lipid screenings—essential for heart health—may be neglected due to these barriers.

Promoting heart health in the LGBTQ+ community requires a multifaceted approach, aimed at enabling individuals to live longer, healthier lives. Components of such an approach include:

• Culturally Competent Care: Healthcare providers must receive training

to understand and address the unique needs of LGBTQ+ patients. This includes creating welcoming environments and addressing concerns related to stigma and discrimination.

• Community Support: LGBTQ+-focused health programs and resources can encourage healthier behaviors. For example, fitness groups tailored to the community can provide safe spaces for physical activity.

• Mental Health Services: Access to affirming mental health care can reduce stress and improve overall well-being, indirectly supporting better heart health.

• Research and Advocacy: Increased research on LGBTQ+ heart health and advocacy for policy changes to reduce healthcare disparities are crucial for long-term progress. ▼

Youth Crisis Support: Crisis intervention services for children under 18. Parents and caregivers are connected to a crisis clinician. Available 24/7. Call 800-969-4357 or text DE to 741-741.

988: Free, confidential support and resources for anyone in distress. Available 24/7. Call 988.

Delaware Hope Line: Free coaching and support. Links to mental health, addiction, and crisis services. Available 24/7. Call 833-9-HOPEDE (833-946-7333).

All of CAMP Rehoboth’s programs, services, and events are listed here: camprehoboth.org/community-calendar. Please visit the site often to ensure you have up-to-date information on what is being offered—and when. ▼

CAMPsafe Serves Our Community

Get Tested for Syphilis in 2025

Happy New Year from CAMPsafe!

As we step into 2025, we are excited to announce the expansion of our services to better support the health and well-being of our community. Did you know, according to the CDC, there has been an 80 percent increase in syphilis cases across the United States between 2018 and 2022? In response to this upward trend, CAMP Rehoboth is now offering syphilis testing at our health suite in downtown Rehoboth Beach. Early detection is key to preventing the spread, and we are here to provide this vital service to ensure that everyone can stay informed and healthy.

Scheduling an appointment for syphilis testing has never been easier! You can now book your appointment online at camprehoboth.org/camp-programs/health-and-wellness/ campsafe-hiv-and-mpox/.

CAMPsafe is committed to making healthcare accessible and supportive for all members of our community. Let’s work together to start the new year with a focus on health, wellness, and prevention. CAMPsafe wishes you a joyful and healthy 2025! ▼

Vincent DeLissio is the CAMPsafe Program Coordinator at CAMP Rehoboth.

PREVENT HIV, SYPHILIS, & MPOX

Free, rapid, walk-in syphilis and HIV testing and counseling is available in the CAMP Rehoboth Health Suite.

CAMP Rehoboth

37 Baltimore Ave., Rehoboth Beach, DE Tel: 302-227-5620

SCAN CODE TO BOOK APPOINTMENT ONLINE

SUSSEX COUNTY’S CHOICE

Shaping the Future of Cardiovascular Health in Our Community.

At Beebe Healthcare, delivering comprehensive cardiovascular care to the people of Sussex County is something we take to heart. We are committed to improving access to education and screenings (mobile and in-hospital) as well as advanced diagnostics, surgical care, and rehabilitation services to help address risk factors, reduce barriers to care, and ensure the best clinical outcomes.

Nationally recognized by the American Heart Association (Get With The Guidelines®), The Joint Commission, and U.S. News and World Report, our heart program is led by a team of highly skilled and experienced specialists and surgeons committed to providing our neighbors access to the safest and highest quality cardiac interventions.

Scan to learn more about heart care at Beebe Healthcare.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Till All of Us Are Free

Black History Month is more than a commemoration of the past. It’s a rallying cry for justice, equity, and visibility today. In an increasingly polarized social and political climate, celebrating Black history is vital. Recognizing its intersection with LGBTQ+ identities fosters unity, understanding, and action.

This year, Black History Month carries heightened importance. It serves as a reminder of the progress we’ve made, encourages us to continue forward, and honors the leaders upon whose shoulders we all stand today.

Black history has been systematically erased or rewritten for centuries. Schools often minimize the horrors of slavery, downplay the impacts of systemic racism, and ignore the contributions of Black leaders. Black stories, including struggles and triumphs, are frequently relegated to the margins of American history…if they’re told at all.

This erasure is no accident. It is part of a broader, systemic strategy to marginalize and suppress Black communities. A lack of representation in textbooks and media perpetuates ignorance and hinders the fight for racial justice. The stakes are even higher now. Across the country, we even see efforts to ban books and restrict discussions about race and racism in schools.

The erasure of Black history also exists within queer communities. Black queer and trans figures have often been excluded from mainstream LGBTQ+ narratives. For example, Marsha P. Johnson, a Black trans woman pivotal in the Stonewall Uprising, is celebrated during Pride Month. Yet, her contributions rarely receive sustained recognition. This selective memory erases the intersectional experiences of Black LGBTQ+ individuals. It diminishes an understanding of how racial and queer justice have always been intertwined.

Black queer people have shaped the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Black art, activism, and resilience have enriched queer culture. Despite this, the contribu -

tions of Black people are often appropriated or forgotten.

Queer culture owes much of its vibrancy to Black culture. The ballroom scene, where voguing and drag competitions originated, is one example. Many words that dominate queer slang today, like “shade,” “read,” and “slay,” also come from Black LGBTQ+ communities. However, these contributions are frequently co-opted by White queer individuals.

Black LGBTQ+ people…face the compounded threats of racism and queerphobia.

This cycle of cultural appropriation doesn’t stop within queer spaces. Elements of Black culture popularized in LGBTQ+ circles often spill over into the mainstream. Straight audiences adopt them while the original creators—Black queer individuals—are left uncredited and, more importantly, uncompensated. Giving appropriate credit affirms the humanity, creativity, and value of Black queer people and Black culture more broadly.

Unfortunately, racism within the queer community is a pervasive issue that undermines the inclusivity and solidarity the LGBTQ+ movement strives to uphold. Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) often face exclusion, tokenization, and systemic discrimination, even in spaces meant to be safe havens. White-centric beauty standards, microaggressions, and the prioritization of White queer voices in activism and leadership perpetuate inequality.

Intersectionality, which recognizes overlapping oppressions like racism and queerphobia, is essential for addressing these disparities. Building a truly equitable queer community requires that we amplify BIPOC voices, challenge racial biases, and ensure representation across all intersections of identity.

Black History Month is critical for spotlighting Black achievements. However,

BY STEPHEN RASKAUSKAS

Black culture and history deserve recognition every day. February often becomes a token month for corporations and organizations. Many post on social media or release Black-themed products but fail to support Black communities throughout the year.

True celebration requires action. It involves investing in Black-led organizations and amplifying Black voices. It means putting money directly into the hands of Black business owners. It means addressing systemic inequities and committing to year-round support.

Black history is American history. It is also queer history and human history. These narratives are interconnected and inseparable.

Black History Month has never been more important. The re-election of Donald Trump, whose presidency emboldened White supremacist ideologies, has fueled a resurgence of hate-filled rhetoric and actions. They remind us of the work that still needs to be done—with urgency.

White supremacy is not just a relic of the past. It is a persistent and dangerous threat in the present. Efforts to roll back voting rights, attack diversity initiatives, and criminalize anti-racist education reflect this ideology. For Black LGBTQ+ people, the challenges are even greater. They face the compounded threats of racism and queerphobia.

Civil rights for Black people and LGBTQ+ rights are deeply connected. Oppression of one group impacts everyone. As the saying goes, “None of us are free until all of us are free.”

Working together is the only way to dismantle systems of oppression. Queer people understand the pain of erasure. We know the importance of visibility and the need for community. During Black History Month, we have an extra opportunity to confront injustices and build a future where everyone can thrive. ▼

Stephen Raskauskas is a Sussex County native who has produced content for radio, TV, digital, and print.

RAISING A HERO

It Started with a Smile

One of the stories Sarah McBride relates in her book Tomorrow Will Be Different is that of a seven-year-old transgender girl who visited Sarah after her historic speech at the 2016 Democratic National Convention. With her mother watching, the girl shyly asked Sarah this question: “What’s your favorite part about being transgender?” Sarah smiled and paused. The question, so different from the ones rooted in ignorance, negativity, or hate, deserved a thoughtful answer.

If you look up the definition of hero, you will find “a person who is admired for their courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities, often acting selflessly to help others, even in the face of danger.” In other words, someone like Sarah McBride. And every hero has an origin story. Here is hers.

One of the first things that strikes people about Sarah McBride is her spectacular smile. When measured in megawatts, it is perhaps second only to that of her political idol, Joe Biden. And apparently, like Superman’s strength, that power was with her from birth.

“When we brought her home as a baby,” recalls her father, David McBride, “I remember bringing her in from the car to the house from the hospital and laying her down on our bed to change her diaper. I laid her down and she had this big, huge grin on her face.”

Sally McBride, Sarah’s mother, remembers something else people tend to notice: “She has always been a wise old soul.” Add to that a heavy dose of optimism, a pound or two of determination, a talent for building consensus, and you have a primordial soup primed to spark a life built around bringing people together to forge solutions for the public good. “She really is in politics for the right reason,” says Sally. “She wants to make a difference. She wants to make things better for people.”

Sarah’s commitment to community service came through both sets of parental DNA. Sally is a former high school coun-

BY NANCY SAKADUSKI

selor who spent much of her life in education-related service, including being a founder of the Cab Calloway School of the Arts. David is an attorney who often does pro bono work. (They now devote much of their time on advocacy work related to LGBTQ+ issues.)

Her parents recall that young Sarah was a voracious reader who had a profound love of history. As early as age seven, she was fascinated with presidential history, earning the nickname “the little president” from teachers and other parents.

When Sarah was 11, David and Sally were sitting with her in a local restaurant when the Bidens happened to come in. Recognizing the opportunity for their child to meet a political idol, they introduced her to then-senator Biden. In what may prove to be foreshadowing, Senator Biden pulled out a sheet from his briefing book and wrote, “Remember me when you are president.”

When Sarah was in eighth grade, her brother Sean came out as gay. David and Sally took it in stride. They are quoted in Sarah’s book as saying, “We all just want Sean to be happy and healthy.” Nevertheless, Sarah waited until she was 21 to come out as transgender.

“I think she was concerned that she would disappoint us,” says Sally. “She was concerned that she would disappoint her political mentors, Jack Markell and Beau Biden. And she was concerned that her hopes and dreams of entering the political arena would not be possible if she came out as transgender.”

Sally admits to reacting badly in the beginning. “I was so scared that she would be discriminated against at every turn, that she would not be able to realize her hopes and dreams.”

David says he didn’t even know what “transgender” meant. He googled it and was horrified by stories about the mistreatment of transgender youth and high rate of suicide. “I read that the attempted suicide rate dropped substantially if the family accepted the child,” he recalls, “and it dropped again substantially if the community accepted the person.” Almost immediately he and Sally decided they would support Sarah in every way they could. They spent several days educating themselves and discussing options. Sally promised, “I’m going to be proactive on this. I’m not going to just sit back.”

Eight years ago, Sally started a support group for parents of transgender and nonbinary children, PTK Delaware (pt-

“She really is in politics for the right reason. She wants to make a difference. She wants to make things better for people.”

kdelaware.org/), partly in response to their own experience of feeling overwhelmed and underprepared. Sally explains that having educational materials available “can mean understanding what transgender means, seeing that they are just like everybody else, with the same hopes and dreams. [Access to information] is just vital because it can mean life or death for a transgender person.”

Although David and Sally McBride, like most parents, don’t feel they did everything perfectly, they clearly got quite a few things right. But even they are still trying to wrap their heads around Sarah’s meteoric career path. “We’re pinching ourselves,” says Sally. “If you had told us when she came out in 2011, 13 years ago, that we would be where we are in this journey, we would have said you’re crazy. No way, no how.”

David and Sally are discovering their own “favorite things” about Sarah being transgender. Sally laughs when admitting that she loves helping Sarah decorate her

condo and offering her fashion advice. But she grows serious when talking about feeling lucky to have gotten a chance to meet Andy (Sarah’s husband, Andy Cray, who died of cancer in 2014). “He truly was one of the best people I’ve ever met in my whole life…we’re still close to his family.”

David points to the outpouring of support they received. “I don’t think I would have ever appreciated how many good friends we have. That has been such a gift.”

Then came 2023. “It was a hard decision when she decided to run for Congress,” says David. He says that part of the problem was that she loved her position as a state senator and knew that being in the US Congress would not be the same. Sally says, “Her safety was a prime issue, for her and for us. And I’ve got to say it continues to be.”

The stellar trajectory of Sarah’s political career has more than a few people revisiting Joe Biden’s prediction for the child nicknamed “the little president,” but the costs of holding high office are

Delaware Takes Pride in McBride

On January 10, within days of taking office, US Representative Sarah McBride introduced her first piece of legislation, a bipartisan bill to crack down on credit repair scams that exploit vulnerable consumers. Because while other elected representatives were wasting their time on petty nonsense about bathrooms, Sarah was working for her constituents.

Sarah McBride was born on August 9, 1990, in Wilmington, Delaware. She is impossibly young for the life she has already led. In just 34 years, she has been president of her university student body, a White House intern, aide to Governor Jack Markell, press secretary for the Human Rights Campaign, a highlighted speaker at the 2016 Democratic National Convention, a state senator, and now a member of the US Congress. She has fallen in love, married, and then tragically

watched cancer take her husband from her. She has broken barrier after barrier, without missing a step.

Sarah readily admits to having a privileged childhood, particularly with regard to her parents, about whom she says she “hit the jackpot.” “I never worried that I would be rejected by my parents or kicked out of the house,” Sarah says in her book. “Like a lot of children, my biggest fear was much simpler. I didn’t want to disappoint them. Statistically speaking, that made me very lucky.”

Sarah has boundless love for Delaware, often answering the question of where she’s from with, “The greatest state in the union, Delaware.” So strong is her boosterism that friends call her a “statriot,” a combination of “state” and “patriot.” Delaware embraced Sarah and made it possible for her to make history here and on the national level.

steep. For that reason, David and Sally emphasize that Sarah’s contributions could come in many ways.

“What I hope for Sarah,” says David, reflecting on President Jimmy Carter, “is that she has a life that is driven by the same kind of meaning and commitment that drove his life. That kind of life can manifest itself in a plethora of ways.… You don’t have to be a representative or a president or a senator. You can live a meaningful, impactful life at the most intimate level or at a broader level. And that’s my expectation for her and that’s my hope for her.” ▼

Nancy Sakaduski is an award-winning writer and editor who campaigned for Sarah McBride and proudly admits to being a huge fan.

Opposite page: Sarah

parents and other family members, along with Speaker of the US House of Representatives, Mike Johnson, in a photo celebrating her swearing-in. Below: Sarah McBride at her swearing-in ceremony; photo courtesy of Office of Congresswoman Sarah McBride.

Sally says that it couldn’t have happened anywhere else and offers this reminder: “Yeah, it’s history making, but the biggest thing is what it will say to transgender people everywhere: that you can dream big, too.” ▼

McBride with her

SPEAKING UP WITH LOVE

While Keeping Our Spirits Safe

We are in tough times. In a world where we are encouraged to remain silent or avoid conflict, speaking up with love becomes an act of courage, vulnerability, and empathy. Whether it’s standing up for ourselves, for others, or advocating for a cause, the manner in which we choose to communicate can greatly influence the outcomes of our interactions.

Speaking up with love is not only about the words we use but also about the intention behind them. It is about speaking with a heart-centered approach that seeks to uplift, heal, and foster understanding, rather than perpetuating division or harm. We’ve had a good example of this from Episcopal Bishop Budde who demonstrated courage while speaking out with love at the national prayer service in January.

At its core, speaking up with love means communicating with kindness, respect, and empathy, even when addressing difficult or uncomfortable subjects. It is about approaching every conversation with the intention to build connection, rather than to win an argument or assert dominance. This practice requires a deep understanding of both our own emotions and the emotions of others, as well as a commitment to honest, authentic expression.

When we speak up with love, we are not ignoring the truth or pretending that everything is okay when it’s not. On the contrary, we are confronting challenges with clarity and honesty but doing so in a way that considers the feelings and dignity of those involved. This approach does not come from a place of fear or defensiveness but from a desire to create peace and understanding.

Speaking up with love is not limited to personal relationships; it also extends to social and political activism. In a world that often feels divided, speaking up with love can be a transformative force for change. When we advocate for justice, equality, or the environment, we can do so with a compassionate, inclusive

approach that seeks to unite people around shared values rather than fueling polarization.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. exemplified this concept in his work for civil rights. He spoke passionately about justice, but always from a place of love and non-violence. His words resonated with people from all walks of life because they spoke

When we speak up with love, we are…confronting challenges with clarity and honesty but doing so in a way that considers the feelings and dignity of those involved.

to the inherent dignity of all individuals, regardless of race, background, or belief. His approach to speaking up with love was grounded in the understanding that true change comes not from hatred or anger, but from a deep love for humanity and a commitment to equality.

When speaking up with love we know that we will not always be met with the same in response. Keeping our spirits safe in activism is incredibly important, as the emotional and mental toll can be

BY KIM LEISEY, PHD

significant. Know how to set boundaries and know your limits. Whether it’s how much time you can dedicate to activism, how much information you consume, or how often you engage with difficult topics, boundaries protect your mental health. Practice good self-care. Take time for activities that recharge you. Have a support system by engaging with those who can offer emotional support and have a sense of shared purpose. Celebrate small wins by acknowledging small victories along the way. Stay connected with your “why” and remind yourself of the bigger picture. Stay connected with your values. Practice reflection and check in with yourself about how you are feeling. Take breaks. We don’t have to be “on” all the time.

As an instructor with KIDPOWER International, I teach kids of all ages (3-95 years) to stay safe—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I don’t deny that words hurt, instead I acknowledge it, and in the face of hurtful words we practice skills to keep our spirits safe. Having skills to protect ourselves is essential to staying centered and not being pulled into situations that are unsafe.

One skill I teach is to “put on your emotional raincoat” when words are hurled at you. When wearing our emotional raincoats, we practice letting the words drip off. Another skill is the “trash can technique.” We keep our spirits safe by imagining hurtful words being tossed into a pretend trash can and replacing them with messages of self-love to our own hearts.

Keeping ourselves safe and protected are acts of love, for us and our community. I’m glad to teach KIDPOWER safety and self-protection skills to anyone who is interested. These days, the only way out is through. Let’s keep our spirits safe through the journey. ▼

Kim

Leisey, PhD, is Executive Director of CAMP Rehoboth.

News Junkie

Ipretty regularly wake up every morning sometime between 2:30 and 3:30. Mostly because I have to pee. But even when I don’t have to, my brain often chooses that time of the night to turn on.

For a long time, my routine when this happened was to pick up my phone and immediately go to a news site to see what was going on in the world. During Trump’s first term, when every hour seemed to bring some new bit of theater, this very quickly became a habit.

I thought it was very important that I know what was going on, everywhere, at all times. I told myself that this is what good citizens do. After all, if I wasn’t informed about a topic, how could I do anything about it? So, I made sure to stay current on events in Ukraine, on whatever nonsense our leaders in Washington were up to, on COVID, on various environmental crises, and, most important of all, on the Taylor Swift/Travis Kelce romance.

Inevitably, reading one story led to reading another. The world is, after all, a wonderful and fascinating place, and I didn’t want to miss out on anything. In addition to the actual news, I read social media posts about what others thought about the news.

I spent hours engaged in trying to keep up. And in the end, it didn’t result in me doing anything. It resulted in me being tense and irritable. Sure, I was informed. And that was the problem. Knowing every stressful thing going on in the world—yet being unable to fix any of these things—made me feel overwhelmed and useless.

When I was growing up, we mostly only knew about the things that were shown on the news. And most of those things seemed far away. What we knew about our little parts of the world was limited. That kept us ignorant about a lot of things, but it also made life feel more manageable. Now, we know what a dumpster fire the whole world is and we have no clue how to put that fire out. The internet in particular has made the

world a very small place. Or at least it feels small. Which is why I feel I should be able to do something about, well, everything. That I can’t makes me feel like it’s all hopeless.

When the latest election cycle ramped up, and particularly when I saw how I was pretty sure it would inevitably end, I held an intervention for myself. I started to disengage from the news.

The more I disengage with a world I can’t control and engage with the one I can do something about, the better I feel.

That’s when I realized that information had become a kind of drug for me. Ingesting it made me feel like I was accomplishing something, gave me a temporary high. But when that high wore off, I was left feeling exhausted and empty. I felt better without that fix, but not checking the news sites was incredibly difficult, particularly when I caught a glimpse of an intriguing headline. Not knowing the latest on this or that ongoing issue made me feel irresponsible.

But the less I checked in on the world, the more I started focusing on my world. Not that I had abandoned it. I had, however, let things outside of it overshadow the things I wanted to accomplish locally. My constant worry about Fixing All the Things kept me from seeing that I can make a difference. Perhaps not on a global scale, but here at home.

During those late night/early morning hours when I can’t sleep, I now either read (something I shamefully stopped doing for a long time because I couldn’t focus long enough without being

BY MICHAEL THOMAS FORD

distracted) or get up and work on ideas for creating, doing, or otherwise making things better in the communities I live and move in.

Last November, for the first time, I put lights on the 20-foot evergreen tree in our front yard. It wasn’t easy. But I’d wanted to do it since we moved in here and it felt like a small thing I could do to make the season more festive for myself. So, I did it.

Over the following weeks, neighbors stopped by to tell us how much they enjoyed the tree. I received messages from local friends saying friends of theirs had mentioned driving through our village and seeing the tree. I saw photos of it on social media, posted by people I didn’t know, with comments about how it reminded them of childhood Christmases. When I eventually took the lights down, a guy driving by in a county work truck stopped and said, “You’re putting them on again next year, right? I liked seeing it all lit up when I drove through in the middle of the night.”

It's an unimportant thing, a tree covered in colored lights. And yet, it can be an incredibly important thing when it lifts the spirits of people who need lifting, when it inspires others to do something to make themselves or others happy.

The more I disengage with a world I can’t control and engage with the one I can do something about, the better I feel.

Now if Taylor and Travis would just get married already. ▼

Michael Thomas Ford is a much-published Lambda Literary award-winning author. Visit Michael at michaelthomasford.com.

Aging Gracelessly

What Goes Around, Comes Around

Negotiating the January snow and packing to drive to Florida, while prepping the house for friends to enjoy in our absence, it was clearer than ever we are aging gracelessly.

A temporary medical issue kept Bonnie from doing things like digging out the cars, hauling landscape stones from the shed, and all manner of other heavy lifting. Consequently, I have been tapped for those butch-adjacent chores. Lordy, I am about to have my Jewish American Princess credentials revoked.

Luckily, we have some wonderful younger friends in our community, who quickly, generously, and energetically shoveled a backyard path for Windsor, cleared off our front porch, and liberated one of our cars.

I joined the shoveling brigade as well, but urgent communication from my shoulder’s rotator cuff quickly sidelined me. Meanwhile, Bonnie, merely watching all the fuss, slipped on the ice and face planted.

No damage, but clearly it was time for cocktails. So later that day our snow day saviors picked us up in their fourwheel drive truck and ferried us to a nearby watering hole.

Over happy hour libations, we admitted it felt a bit odd to be ceding our accustomed roles as helpers to becoming helpees. From the truck’s rear seat, Bonnie, the inveterate designated driver, was coming to terms with her new role as backseat passenger. Also, backseat driver.

It all brought back memories of some of the marvelous intergenerational friendships and experiences we’ve enjoyed in our 26 years as Rehoboth full-timers.

Two couples come to mind, with all four women passed now, but still living and well-loved in our memories.

In our early 50s we met a couple quite a few years our senior. Bonnie and I wound up going to their home fre -

quently for dinner and helping with little chores requiring tools. Okay, Bonnie helped. I poured wine.

When, years later they were shut-ins and pretty isolated, we brought them restaurant carry-out and copies of Letters. We’d share stories of our working locally and in Dover for gay rights, keeping them in the loop. We cherished those evenings and conversations.

Bonnie and I wound up going to their home frequently for dinner and helping with little chores requiring tools. Okay, Bonnie helped. I poured wine.

As for the other couple, you’ve probably read or heard my stories of Anyda and Muriel. They were a couple for 57 years until they both passed in 2005.

They were about 35 years our senior, in their 80s and 90s, and still owned a small publishing company. We heard their tales of 1960s-70s Rehoboth, when two women could not get a mortgage and gays were still called homosexuals. Deeply closeted, Anyda and Muriel started the first National Organization for Women chapter here.

Their work with NOW caused a huge ruckus, as the husbands were displeased their wives were becoming feminists.

Anyda and Muriel told us how they demanded—and got—a family membership at the Rehoboth Beach Yacht and Country Club a full two dozen years before anyone else even tried for that designation.

The ladies published my first four books, and we helped them by doing book distribution chores, taking Muriel

BY FAY JACOBS

to the library, and driving them to CAMP Rehoboth events.

Bonnie and I adored their industriousness in the face of advancing age. For example, before leaving for their annual journey to Florida (driven there by a relative), we offered to help them pack the car.

“No, thanks,” Muriel told me, “We’ll go out in the morning and open up the big trunk on the Lincoln, go back inside and get the suitcases.”

According to Anyda, they would place the empty suitcases, wide open, in the trunk. Then they would amble back inside and start bringing out the clothes.

‘You packed the suitcases in the trunk?” I asked, trying to picture the ladies toddling out their front door with armloads of golf shirts and khaki pants, not to mention unmentionables.

“We could never have gotten the heavy suitcases out of the house filled, so we came up with this plan,” Muriel said, looking at Anyda for concurrence. “Oh, yes, this was the easy way,” Anyda said, describing the reverse tactic upon arrival at their winter home.

I think it’s a joy to have these intergenerational relationships and I wish everyone had the opportunity to do so. And now, as Bonnie and I sit on the cusp of reversing the roles we originally played, it will take some getting used to.

But I promise you, we are still many years away from opening up the luggage in the rear of the SUV and going back inside for our Women’s FEST shirts and Schnauzer socks.

Or are we???? ▼

Fay Jacobs is a freelance writer, storyteller, and author of six books of (mostly) comic essays. She has written for The Washington Post, Baltimore Sun, The Advocate, the Washington Blade, and Delaware Beach Life. A former editor of Letters, she has written for the magazine for 30 years.

CAMPStories

BY RICH BARNETT

Taking Inspiration from the Most Unlikely Sources

Idon’t know about you, but I’ve been struggling to keep a positive outlook amidst the madness and sadness swirling everywhere. Each day seems to bring a new deluge of horrific news. The big snowstorm generated some beauty for a while, but even it eventually turned dirty, icy, and gray.

One morning, a few days before this column was due, I was shaving and pondering whether to skip the first Letters issue of 2025. None of my ideas seemed appropriate for the moment. Then, unexpectedly, a brown marmorated stinkbug minced across my bathroom mirror from right to left and then back again.

Some of you might grimace. But other readers know I’ve had a peculiar relationship with this insect over the years. Its sudden appearance cheered my heart on the cold winter day, for it had been a few years since a stinkbug paid yours truly a visit.

A stinkbug, you might be interested to know, visits me from time to time. When it comes, it follows me around like a loyal dog—sitting on my computer when I write, hanging about the kitchen as I cook, and perching on a bedroom lamp while I read. Until the day it simply vanishes. Admittedly, this is odd. Some insects are attracted to the carbon dioxide we exhale. I am, however, 100 percent convinced my caller is a spirit, though I’ve yet to figure out who. I relish the visits. And I have embraced the spirit insect, even going so far as inking myself with a large stinkbug tattoo on my forearm.

On the morning in question, I flicked the stinkbug off the mirror and watched it buzz about like a tiny helicopter until it settled beside the bathroom window on the tender green stem of a daffodil bulb just starting to peek up from a bed of beige pea gravel in a glass container. My partner, Michael, had earlier planted a dozen dried out and sad looking daffodil bulbs, not convinced they’d survive. Yet here they were thriving on a chilly

windowsill. In my joy, I lost track of the stinkbug. I waited patiently all day for it to reappear, but it didn’t.

What did appear, however, was the inspiration I’d been seeking. While I may not know who the stinkbug is, I realized he or she had come to deliver me an important message.

I shall take my inspiration instead from the stinkbug and the daffodil and ready myself for the fight ahead.

The first thing to know about stinkbugs is they are clever, highly adaptable insects that survive situations where most everyone wants to eradicate them. They endure and persist. In doing so, they remind us to dig deep and find the inner strength to keep going when things look bleak.

The stinkbug's infamous ability to defend itself with odor might also be a sign for us to remain alert and aware of potential threats. It tells me we need to trust our noses and not be lulled to sleep by the bullshit of those who are already starting to normalize and ignore the in-

tolerance, ignorance, and incompetence rising up in this country. And I’m not talking just about GOP politicians.…

So too does the daffodil have poignant meaning for anyone looking for signs of hope in these cold early days of 2025. Daffodils are typically among the first spring bulbs to pop up in the garden and as such have long been associated with renewal and fresh beginnings. Daffodil bulbs might look beaten down, dormant or even dead in the winter—as mine did—but they’re not. They’re simply storing up energy and rejuvenating their soul. Not if—but when—they bloom, their yellow and white flowers reassure us life continues moving forward, even after difficult seasons. On many occasions, I’ve seen daffodils growing through the snow. They are bold and strong. They do not quit.

I can’t tell you how many people I’ve heard say their top 2025 resolution is to eschew politics and spend time instead on “positive things,” whatever the hell that means. I recently saw an NPR article touting such pithy New Year’s resolutions as “host a dinner party,” “become a morning person,” and “make better to-do lists.” Seriously? Is that really what we need to focus on this year?

In closing, I can say rather than “develop a healthier relationship with caffeine,” as NPR suggests, I shall take my inspiration instead from the stinkbug and the daffodil and ready myself for the fight ahead. Admittedly, I write this when I’m neither sure how the fight against the fundamentally evil MAGA movement will play out, nor what my role in opposition to it will be. But I do know both will require resilience, awareness, and persistence, for the price of apathy is to be ruled by evil men. Plato said it and we are now living it. I won’t sit idly by. Will you? ▼

Rich Barnett is the author of The Discreet Charms of a Bourgeois Beach Town, and Fun with Dick and James.

Out & About

Courage and Quiet

When you love movies as much as I do, a new film by your favorite director is always an exciting event. So as soon as Pedro Almodovar’s The Room Next Door was scheduled to screen in my town, I scurried to buy a ticket for the first night.

This was not just any other new Almodovar film. After a couple of shorts (The Human Voice, Strange Way of Life), this newest one was Pedro’s English-language feature debut. All of the other fulllength films he’d ever made (over 20 of them in a career spanning over 50 years) were exercises in reading as well as seeing and hearing. Not that I cared much. The Spanish language is a beautiful thing to hear, and I never minded captions. Also, I’ve loved seeing the company of actors (mostly women) he uses over and over: Penelope Cruz, Antonio Banderas, Carmen Maura, Chus Lampreave, Rossy de Palma, Julieta Serrano, and the recently departed Marisa Paredes. And of course, the settings of Almodovar movies are typically Madrid, Barcelona, and the villages of Extremadura.

The Room Next Door, by contrast, stars Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore. The story begins in New York City and moves upstate to a beautiful home in Woodstock. It centers on Ingrid, a writer (Moore) who hears that Martha, a friend from long ago, has been diagnosed with cancer. Ingrid and Martha weren’t estranged; rather, they just drifted apart, as adult friends sometimes do. But when friends were once very close, as these two were, the bonds of friendship are remarkably elastic.

As the story opens, Martha has some hope for her treatment. Soon enough, this collapses, and the central conflict of the film emerges: Martha wants to end her life on her own terms before it becomes unbearable. Furthermore, she wants Ingrid to accompany her to a quiet house in the woods she has rented for this purpose. Ingrid doesn’t believe she’s strong enough to do what Martha asks

but eventually decides to be brave for her friend—to be “in the room next door” when Martha says her biggest goodbye.

The Room Next Door is a quiet film. Even when emotions run high, no one raises their voice. Some of the biggest emotional climaxes take place while snow is gently falling outside. It has a lot to say about courage, death, and friendship—it’s a beautiful movie, and when it was over, I was very glad to have seen it.

Perhaps what I was experiencing wasn’t so much a divide caused by language, but one caused by culture.

And yet, there was something about it that made me uneasy. Almodovar, who writes his own screenplays, didn’t seem to have an ear for American women speaking English, and it took me at least a half hour to decide not to be annoyed by the formality of their language. His Spanish-language films always felt very natural, but then again, I don’t speak Spanish fluently, so how would I know? Perhaps all of his characters spoke this way and had for decades. Martha and Ingrid are extremely well-educated. They quote James Joyce from memory and are just as happy to talk about the doomed love story of painter Dora Carrington and gay writer Lytton Strachey (the subjects of Ingrid’s next book) as old times. Maybe this was why their dialogue sounded a bit stuffy.

Alissa Wilkinson of the New York Times had another theory. She wrote that the dialogue “takes a second to get used to,” and notes that “[most] movies are full of people saying the opposite of what they mean—but [the dialogue spoken by Ingrid and Martha] also feels refreshing, and true to these women in particular.”

BY ERIC C. PETERSON

Upon reflection, I think Wilkinson is on to something. Perhaps what I was experiencing wasn’t so much a divide caused by language, but one caused by culture. Almodovar’s Spanish women usually aren’t as quiet as Ingrid and Martha, and they are often more passionate than intellectual. But while they sometimes lie to others in service of the plot, they rarely lie to themselves. In fact, just like Ingrid and Martha, they are usually self-aware to an astonishing degree.

Maybe the same can be said about Spain and the United States. Do we do a better job of kidding ourselves than they do? Or are self-knowledge and honesty traits that Pedro Almodovar, a gay man who grew up in a tiny Catholic village in Francoist Spain, has always admired? It might be a bit of both.

While I was watching The Room Next Door, I could see that it was a film about bravery. Martha was bravely staring death in the face, even welcoming it. Ingrid was confronting her own fears about grief and bravely standing by her friend regardless. It was only later that I realized that there is a gentler, quieter form of bravery that the movie was also about: the bravery to know exactly how you feel at any given time, and to be emotionally honest with yourself and everyone else. ▼

Eric Peterson is a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) practitioner, pop culture junkie, and sometime novelist. His debut novel (Loyalty, Love & Vermouth) is available at Broweseabout Books and online.

THE FEAST OF SAINT VALENTINE

Won’t You Be Mine?

It’s not easy being a saint. The title comes with expectations. The pressure to produce is exhausting, and the constant stream of prayers to answer requires the patience only a saintly deity could muster.

In the upper echelons of saintly existence—think VIP for the holy—is an honor bestowed on a select few: holidays in their honor. This is where things get murky as these celebrations, centuries later, are in name only.

St. Patrick’s Day, for example, should be a day one celebrates the traditions of Irish culture, and the banishment of all serpents from the island. Instead, it has turned into a week-long dumpster fire of buffoonish proportion where people drop shots in lager glasses, wear Mardi Gras beads, and black out in parking lots.

All Hallows’ Eve, on October 31, was intended to be a period of reflection before All Saints Day on November 1. Now, that reflection has turned into overindulging in candy and dressing like a naughty nun, or some version of a pirate, much to the amusement of anyone with a social media feed.

St. Nicholas Day, otherwise known by the capitalist crowd as Christmas, honors the patron saint of repentant thieves, brewers, pawnbrokers, toymakers, and unmarried people. Now, it honors the annual pilgrimage of a jolly, bearded man who somehow traverses the globe in less than 24 hours, delivering joy and disappointment in equal measure, year after year.

Valentine’s Day, though, is the outlier. And complicated in its own right. It’s a day many dutifully celebrate love with roses, cards, and chocolates carefully wrapped in heart-shaped boxes. It’s also a day which rankles nerves and invites sneers from those who see through the blatant commercialism. It turns out, though, in a world which has co-opted many of these saintly celebrations, Valentine’s Day has remained true to its origins.

The identity of Saint Valentine is not entirely clear, as there were several individuals with the same name. The most

popular was a priest from the third century, who lived during the reign of Emperor Claudius II. This Valentine was arrested and imprisoned for performing weddings for Christian couples at a time when the Roman Empire had outlawed marriage

Last year, in fact, Americans spent a record $20 billion on gifts, like candy, flowers, jumbo-sized stuffed animals, and gourmet meals.

specifically for young soldiers. The church believed these young men would be better warriors with fewer distractions. Valentine, however, defied this edict, and continued leading these ceremonies.

In prison, Valentine earned his saintly stripes after befriending a jailer's visually impaired daughter. Valentine focused his efforts to heal her through prayer until her sight had been restored. The legend states that before his execution on February 14, in 269 AD, he sent her one last note signed "from your Valentine.” This day soon would be marked as the Feast of Saint Valentine and become an annual day of remembrance.

Over time, the holiday would take on new meanings, merging with older, pagan traditions. By the Middle Ages, it was more associated with romantic love,

BY CHRISTOPHER MOORE

largely due to the influence of poets like Geoffrey Chaucer. In his 1375 poem Parliament of Fowls, he wrote, "For this was on St. Valentine’s Day, when every bird cometh there to choose his mate.”

By the 18th century, the exchange of love notes—elaborate and often hand-decorated—became a common practice in Britain. Over time the “Saint” was shortened, and then mostly dropped.

It should be no surprise that the commercialization of Valentine’s Day blossomed in the United States in the 20th century. Last year, in fact, Americans spent a record $20 billion on gifts, like candy, flowers, jumbo-sized stuffed animals, and gourmet meals. Of course, detractors are quick to note there are 364 other days in the year to show love, and one day for these acts of care is nothing but performative. This has led to some Valentine’s backlash, and the introduction of anti-holidays like Palentine’s Day and Galentine’s Day, and Singles Awareness Day (SAD for short) which promote the benefits of platonic and self-love.

Despite the commercialization of Valentine’s Day, its dotted line back to the saint it was named after still exists. His sacrifices for love and devotion to help couples find happiness remain at the core of modern celebrations. Ultimately, it’s love which serves as the great bonding agent, healing wounds and helping people overcome challenges and hardships.

In a modern world marred by chaos and conflict, something as simple as a Valentine’s Day card is a pleasant reminder of what is important when life gets in the way. Each year, this holiday offers a chance to reaffirm the value of kindness, connection, and compassion, reminding us all of the transformative power of love to unite, heal, and inspire.▼

Christopher Moore is Interim Executive Director of AIDS Delaware. He loves NPR, naughty jokes, and a man who lives in Toronto. Email him at moore.cc@gmail.com.

Image: St. Valentine, Encyclopædia Britannica

THE ONE NAME IN REAL ESTATE AT THE BEACH.

Words Matter

The Art of Conversation

Afew weeks ago, I read a remarkable story in the New York Times about how a chance encounter between a museum curator at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and a security guard on duty in one of the galleries lead to the security guard having one of his pieces featured in an exhibition now on view at the museum. The curator was walking through the gallery searching for a particular piece of artwork that he planned to use in an upcoming exhibition. The security guard noticed that the man was looking for something and asked if he could help. After hearing the name of the piece, he took the curator right to it and they began to talk a bit more. The curator learned that the security guard was also an artist.

The rest of the story unfolds in a way right out of a feel-good film. I’m sure everyone who read it is hoping that the artist will continue to see more success and his works are shown and purchased by many more in the years to come.

Not long after reading that article, I was very fortunate to take a much-needed trip to Los Angeles to visit friends and enjoy a long weekend. While there I had a chance to visit one of my favorite museums, the California African American Museum (CAAM). I like that it focuses both on African American history and culture with a unique California and west coast point of view. You’re as likely to see exhibitions that highlight history, just as much as you are to see some that solely concentrate on art, or the intersection of the two.

The weekend of my visit was the last to view Simone Leigh, a traveling exhibition organized by the Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston (ICA) and co-presented in Los Angeles by CAAM and the Los Angeles County of Museum of Art (LACMA). I was not familiar with the artist and namesake of the exhibition, but I was intrigued by the work. So much so that I took at least three laps through the exhibition and stopped to take photos of two of the sculptures and one image that reminded me of something I’d seen from

BY CLARENCE FLUKER

another artist in a show at the Baltimore Museum of Art a few years prior.

It was a good and thought-provoking show. I understood why Ms. Leigh had been chosen to represent the United States at the 59th Venice Biennial in 2022. I decided I’d use the rest of my time that afternoon to take a trip over to LACMA to see more of her work.

But just before I exited the gallery at CAAM, I turned to the security officer who’d greeted me as I entered and had been paying close attention to a video piece projected on one of the walls. He was a tall, handsome guy. I asked how he was doing and then inquired what was his favorite piece in the exhibition. He paused for a moment and admitted that it would be too hard to pick just one, so instead he’d offer me his top two.

The first was a gorgeous work that hung from the ceiling like a chandelier. The colors were inviting to the eyes and if I had a ladder, I’d want to climb up to touch it. His other favorite was a sculpture. He walked me over to it and pointed out the nuances and subtle drips that I would never have noticed on my own.

We had a long conversation about the imagination and intention required to make such art—the kind of art that not only appeals to the eyes but also, makes

There is beauty in simply discovering and sharing with someone new.

you think and ask questions. Our back and forth heightened the whole museum-going experience for me. I was grateful and so glad that I’d engaged him—and that he indulged me.

Our exchange, of course, did not lead to the monumental event that occurred at the Met where a gallery conversation became the catalyst for the elevation of an artist. But it was a lovely reminder of the wonderful connections we can have with people wherever we are.

There is something to be learned from everyone. In our daily life, as we walk through museums, art galleries, grocery stores, gyms—just about anywhere—there is something to be offered and gained when we are open to talking to someone around us. There is beauty in simply discovering and sharing with someone new. That is its own art, invaluable and worth cherishing. ▼

Clarence J. Fluker is a public affairs and social impact strategist. Since 2008, he’s also been a contributing writer for Swerv, a lifestyle periodical celebrating African American LGBTQ+ culture and community. Follow him on Instagram: @ Mr_CJFluker.

Photo by Diane Picchiottino on Unsplash

Reflections

Flash Fitness

Blending Movement into Everyday Life

I’m going through withdrawal. I haven’t played pickleball outside in months. I haven’t kayaked nor have I played with my SUP (aka standup paddleboard). It’s freezing. It’s so cold I can’t put on enough layers to comfortably walk my doodles. I’ve let my workouts slack off and I’m feeling the difference. Instead of beating myself up for my perceived laziness, I’m getting back my fitness mojo. I’ve incorporated Flash Fitness into my everyday activities. It started on my steps while I was walking up to my office. I felt a stretch coming on. Halfway up, I placed my hands on a step and enjoyed a down dog. Before I got up, I did 10 pushups. Then I changed hand positions and did 10 more. Flash Fitness was born.

Flash Fitness is the modern way to exercise without changing clothes, going outside, hiring a trainer, or paying for a gym membership. It’s easy and very convenient—especially in the dead of winter when it practically takes the lure of an extraordinary dinner or fantastic concert to get me out of the house.

The majority (58 percent) of US adults say their physical activity level decreases during the winter, according to a 2020 National Recreation and Park Association poll. Cold temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and less motivation because of weather conditions are factors that keep people hibernating.

No equipment is required for Flash Fitness. All you need is body awareness (so you don’t get injured) and a basic knowledge of exercises. Flash Fitness is taking just about anything you do and blending a few sets of exercises into the activity. Short bursts of exercise can have health benefits that include increased endurance and strength, weight loss, improved cardiovascular health, improved mood, and lower blood pressure.

For cardio training, I began just walking up and down my stairs. Then I tried jogging, which at first, I found

even one round (especially going down) difficult. It got easier. I also get up during commercials and do a few jumping jacks or, if the ad is playing a good tune, I practice my ‘groovy’ dance moves either alone or with my handsome 60-pound labradoodle as my dance partner.

Integrating these gentle blasts of exercise into my day is a great way to balance out the gaps in my outdoor workouts.

Core strength and balance is so important to maintain as we age. With a few tweaks, many normal activities can turn into challenging core strengthening movements. I like balancing on one leg while I wash dishes or brush my teeth. Sometimes I need to use the counter to help me balance. If I’m rested and focused, I can balance without any assistance.

Can you get out of a chair without

BY PATTIE CINELLI

using your arms? At first it was a struggle, but now I’m amazed how effortless it is for me to stand. When you’ve mastered using two legs you can progress to a variation of the chair squat using just one leg to lift up and down. Another variation is instead of descending into a seated position, tap the chair or couch and immediately stand back up. It engages core strength as well as balance.

I use my 32-pound mini-goldendoodle, Dante, for working my biceps. I also use core strength lifting him off the floor and putting him down. Don’t think the steps are the only place you can do pushups. I use my kitchen counter, my bed, the back of my couch, or one of my benches and do both pushups and tricep dips.

Winter won’t be around forever. As soon as the weather gets above 40 degrees I’m out on the courts and on the trails. Integrating these gentle blasts of exercise into my day is a great way to balance out the gaps in my outdoor workouts. I find the more I strengthen my foundation, the better I play on the court or in the water. It also helps me remain injury-free and diagnosis-free. Only 28 percent of Americans are exercising enough, said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) last year. It also stated half of American adults have at least one illness that could have been prevented by regular exercise.

I love how I feel when I move my body. Sometimes the memory of that ‘love’ is not enough to motivate me. Instead of chastising myself for not doing what I think I “should” do, I try out fun ways to add movement to whatever I do during the day. ▼

Pattie Cinelli is a writer and a holistic health & fitness professional. Email her with questions or column ideas to: fitmiss44@aol.com

Photo: Dante assists the author with bicep curls. Courtesy of the author.

STRIDES In Pride

Throughout 2024, CAMP Rehoboth made Strides In Pride as it pursued its mission to create a more positive environment for folks of all sexual orientations and gender identities in southern Delaware and beyond. Through a vibrant, diverse range of programming and services based in health, arts, advocacy, and community building, CAMP Rehoboth continues to envision a world where all LGBTQ+ people thrive.

According to The Advocate, Delaware boasts the second densest LGBTQ+ population in the country. CAMP Rehoboth is proud to make strides in fostering a community of understanding, well-being, and belonging for all.

Putting Pride in Progress: With CAMP Rehoboth’s five-year strategic plan in action, note below how our programs and services work towards our strategic plan’s outcomes.

Financial Highlights

Sponsors, Grants, & Scholarships

Collaborations – IN

–CAMP Rehoboth partnered and collaborated with more than

arts & CULTURE

The arts at CAMP Rehoboth not only celebrate creative expression, but also build connections within our diverse communities, reinforcing the vital role of the arts in promoting inclusion, creativity, and joy.

“[The concert] left me happy and carefree, and reminded me of the love in my own heart and the love shared by the members of this chorus. Thank you for the reminder of the love within and to be shared.”

CAMP CHORUS AUDIENCE MEMBER

CAMP REHOBOTH BY THE NUMBERS • 2024

Health & Wellness

CAMP Rehoboth continues to foster a sense of well-being among the LGBTQ+ community and its allies, through the following programs.

CAMPsafe

HEALTH TESTING + FLU SHOTS

56|FLU VACCINATION & WELLNESS CHECKS Administered by Bayhealth & Beebe Healthcare

11 |BREAST & CHEST SCREENINGS

With Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition & Planned Parenthood 3 BLOOD DRIVES With the Blood Bank

MINDFULNESS & MOVEMENT

Highest program attendance

YOGA FOR MEN → 22 (WEEKLY)

CHAIR YOGA → 10 (WEEKLY)

MEDITATION → 10 (WEEKLY) TAI CHI → 10 (WEEKLY)

YOGA OVER 50 → 12 (DAILY)

SUPPORT, GROWTH, & HEALING

Highest program attendance

BEREAVEMENT GROUP → 6 (MONTHLY) AA MEETING → 20 (WEEKLY)

AGING IN PLACE SEMINARS

Health & Wellness for 55+

Seminar and Attendance

What Happens When You Die (3 seminars) 127 ATTENDEES

Aging in Place 19 ATTENDEES

CPR Training 20 ATTENDEES

Elder Law Workshop 11 ATTENDEES

“I applaud you for your dedication and ongoing commitment to the health of our community!”

Advocacy

IN ACTION LAW ENFORCEMENT

120 CADETS & SEASONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS TRAINED through CAMP Rehoboth’s expanded LGBTQ+ sensitivity training

“CAMP Rehoboth’s commitment to training our officers in diversity and cultural competency has been invaluable.”

CHIEF KEITH BANKS, RB POLICE DEPARTMENT

CARE DELIVERY

6 LGBTQ+ AFFIRMING MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDERS TRAINED through Yale University’s LGBTQ+ Health Initiative

STRATEGIC FOCUS: LGBTQ+ people have access to LGBTQ+/gender-/trans-affirming medical care across the lifespan.

GOVERNMENT

10+ LETTERS SIGNED onto by CAMP Rehoboth’s Advocacy Team (as part of ActionLink) to support local legislative actions like H.R. 346 and S.B. 212

SCHOOLS

Cape Henlopen School District piloting the Welcoming Schools bullying prevention program

STRATEGIC FOCUS: Schools in Sussex County report reduced bullying/hate for LGBTQ+ youth.

COMMUNITY

2 NEW SETS OF RAINBOW CROSSWALKS painted on Baltimore Avenue in Rehoboth Beach

169 DOWNLOADS of CAMP Rehoboth’s podcast This Month in Queer History

Community Engagement

STRATEGIC FOCUS: LGBTQ+ people are able to experience a community of connection and belonging.

CAMP

Rehoboth fosters a sense of belonging for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies through an array of events, activities, and gatherings.

COMMUNITY PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

MAJOR EVENTS

Event attendance

4.5K

Women’s FEST 4K Block Party 2K SUNFESTIVAL

EVENTS

CAMP REHOBOTH SOCIALS

→ 323 ATTENDEES

3 BUS TRIPS

→ 124 PARTICIPANTS

TOY & CLOTHING DRIVE

→ 613 TOYS, 4 BICYCLES, & 300 ITEMS OF WINTER GEAR TO 5 ORGANIZATIONS & 2 FAMILIES

TRANSGENDER AWARENESS WEEK

→ 34 ATTENDEES for film discussions and Trans Day of Remembrance Vigil

SEA WITCH® PARADE

→ 20 MARCHERS

→ 50 FT INCLUSIVE PRIDE FLAG

→ 200,000 VIEWERS

→ 200 ATTENDEES NEW IN 2024

NATIONAL COMING OUT DAY

“It was really nice to see so many women having a great time. What an excellent sense of community!”

WOMEN’S FEST ATTENDEE

“CAMP Rehoboth has been and continues to be the “Anchor” for the LGBTQIA+ community…here in southern Delaware…”

SUNFESTIVAL ATTENDEE

Established Groups

Highest program attendance

WOMEN’S GOLF LEAGUE →  74 GOLFERS

CAMP FAMILIES →  44 (SCHELLVILLE HOLIDAY HANGOUT & CAPE WATER TAXI CRUISE)

WOMEN IN CIRCLE →  21 ATTENDEES (BIWEEKLY)

FLAMING KNITTERS →  10 ATTENDEES (BIWEEKLY)

BOOK CLUB → 8 PARTICIPANTS | 2 AUTHORS (MONTHLY)

PRISM YOUNG ADULTS →  15-30 (SPORADIC)

3 NEW GROUPS

LGBTQ+ POST-ELECTION SUPPORT →  31 (WEEKLY, NOV-DEC)

LGBTQ+ VETERANS →  10 (MONTHLY)

STRATEGIC FOCUS: CAMP Rehoboth looks to establish a satellite location for programs and community gatherings.

ONLINE READS:

11,594 ONLINE IMPRESSIONS*

68,912

*the number of times Letters content was shown online, personalized feeds, searches, or websites

SOCIAL MEDIA

Percent increase on social media platforms January 2024 to December 2024

NEWSLETTER & EMAIL OUTREACH

CAMP REHOBOTH’S WEEKLY NEWSLETTER

55% – for over –

52K DISTRIBUTION PRINT RUN EMAIL OPEN RATE

5.5K CONTACTS

CAMP REHOBOTH MEMBERSHIP

BY SHELLEY BLUE GRABEL

RAINBOW MEMBERS RECEIVE:

• Basic Membership Package

- Advance ticket sales to CAMP Rehoboth events

- Recognition in Letters from CAMP Rehoboth

- Rainbow Member window cling(s)

- Weekly “What’s Happening at CAMP” email

• Discount on CAMP Rehoboth Event Tickets for Levels Green and above (as noted)

• Free Health Screenings, Counseling Services, and Support Groups

• Youth, Adult and Senior Programs, Services and Outreach

• The satisfaction of knowing you are helping others!

PAY ANNUALLY or MONTHLY

☐ PURPLE LEVEL ☐ $2400 annual or ☐ $200 monthly

Basic + 25% ticket discount and one 1/4 page ad in Letters from CAMP Rehoboth

☐ INDIGO LEVEL ☐ $1200 annual or ☐ $100 monthly Basic + 20% ticket discount

☐ BLUE LEVEL ☐ $900 annual or ☐ $75 monthly Basic + 15% ticket discount

☐ GREEN LEVEL ☐ $600 annual or ☐ $50 monthly

Basic + 10% ticket discount

☐ YELLOW LEVEL ☐ $300 annual or ☐ $25 monthly

☐ ORANGE LEVEL ☐ $180 annual or ☐ $15 monthly

☐ RED BASIC ☐ $50 annual or ☐ Basic Dual/Family, $85 annual

☐ YOUNG ADULT (18-25 years old) ☐ $25 annual

NAME

☐ Enclosed is my check payable to CAMP Rehoboth for the full annual amount.

☐ Please charge my Recurring Monthly or Annual Membership fee to: CREDIT

SIGNATURE

CORPORATE

EMAIL

EXPECTED

Ode to the Cubbyhole— West 12th St. NYC

Dear Cubbyhole, do you still have that spot on the dance floor that fits my boot to perfection? That matches the curve of my shoulder against the back wall? Is the shadow of Stormy still in the doorway watching over us all?

Dear Cubbyhole, does the smoke still cling to the wooden walls? Am I in there still searching for her? Is the music layered with Gloria Gaynor over R&B over Pop over hip hop? My hips cannot stop moving just thinking about you.

Do voices strain to be heard above the din of barbacks? above the sound of glasses and pitchers swishing and slinging bottles into bins? Do people still whisper mouth to ear?

Dear Cubbyhole Is her number still on the wall next to the phone next to the bathroom stalls? Did I ever get through? Do I still hover in your secret corners Nodding to music, and watching for her Did she finally appear with someone else? Do we all wander home at 4 am still traveling in packs for safety?

Dear Cubbyhole

Are you still a parade of hopes? Are your lights still dim? Do warm hands still grab each other to dance in place on your tiny dance floor? Does anyone still order Dewars and milk? Did you ever find my lost earring? ▼

View Point

The GOP Plays with Fire No Magic Eraser for Trump

Pardon my use of a fire metaphor when entire neighborhoods in southern California have been destroyed by wildfires. The sad fact, however, is that political arson is the only thing Donald Trump does or knows how to do.

His own response to the wildfires is a case in point. While they spread destruction from celebrity mansions in Malibu to multi-generation African-American homes in Altadena, Trump exploited them to launch a lie-filled smear of Democrats. He has neither the capacity nor the inclination to bring Americans together in the face of tragedy.

Meanwhile, Republicans insisted that strings be attached to any federal aid for rebuilding after the fires. For example, they demanded that Democrats support raising the debt ceiling to permit another round of tax cuts for needy billionaires. This despite the fact that red states on average receive more in federal aid than they contribute, while blue California contributes billions more in taxes than it receives.

Egalitarianism is not a thing for Republicans, who treat the diversity of America’s population as a leftist plot, feel entitled to hold power exclusively in perpetuity, and assume any election they lose is rigged despite a lack of evidence.

There is no point in soft-peddling the takeover of the United States by fascists, racists, religious fanatics, and conspiracy theorists, especially considering their own addiction to vicious and fact-free rhetoric.

With our nation in peril, the least we can honorably do is stand for the truth in defending our constitutional republic against the flood of right-wing disinformation.

Two owners of social media platforms, Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg, have justified their abandonment of content moderation by invoking free speech. One of the most dangerous lies

in today’s politics is the pretense that fact-checking is a threat to free speech. It is no such thing.

People are entitled to their own opinions, but not their own facts. Trump, however, acts as if he is entitled to have reality alter itself to suit him. It can hardly

People are entitled to their own opinions, but not their own facts.

be a surprise that a man who autographs bibles harbors delusions of godhood.

Many people in the news media appear convinced it is their duty to help normalize this nonsense. No. An election victory—especially Trump’s mere plurality of the popular vote in 2024—is not a magic eraser.

Trump remains a convicted felon. A grift remains a grift. Climate change remains a global threat. Demanding territory belonging to other countries remains a form of imperialistic aggression. Tulsi Gabbard remains a Russian asset. Demonizing people for their gender identity remains dishonest and cruel. Continually stoking social division remains the opposite of leadership.

President Lincoln once said, “If you call a tail a leg, how many legs does a dog have?” The answer is four. Calling a tail a leg does not make it one.

As I write this, it is not known how many proposed members of Trump’s cabinet of saboteurs will be confirmed by the Senate. But it does not look promising if one holds the old-fashioned view that people should be fit for their jobs.

Defense secretary nominee Pete Hegseth at his confirmation hearing repeatedly dodged questions about drunkenness and sexual assaults. Meanwhile, Trump wants to jail former House Republican Conference chair Liz Cheney,

BY RICHARD J. ROSENDALL

who remains stoutly conservative while most of her former GOP colleagues have abandoned their principles in favor of a personality cult.

Let us not pretend we didn’t see this coming. We spent the past decade witnessing Trump’s relentless, successful appeals to voters’ lowest impulses.

The only hope for stopping a slide into oligarchy, which President Biden rather belatedly warned about in his farewell address, is to reaffirm Lincoln’s call for his fellow citizens to heed the better angels of their nature. This requires swimming against the political current.

At my Catholic elementary school in the 1960s, the nuns and lay teachers insisted that students behave like sheep rather than use our human brains to think for ourselves. It did not take hold in my case. Decades later, I helped win civil marriage equality in the Nation’s Capital over the protests of the Archdiocese of Washington.

Now I have the satisfaction that Washington’s outgoing archbishop Cardinal Wilton Gregory and incoming archbishop Cardinal Robert McElroy are both welcoming toward LGBTQ+ Catholics.

Many battles for the soul of our nation lie ahead. This war will be waged not on a distant front, but all around us and unavoidable. Standing against Trump’s willfully mindless rabble will be hard, but in the long run we will feel better for doing it. ▼

Richard J. Rosendall is a writer and activist at rrosendall@me.com.

CAMPshots

SCENES FROM REHOBOTH BEACH

Holly Days and Long Winter Nights!

Santa Bar Crawl, Warm Winter Social, Community Unity Dinner, DC Gay Men's Chorus at CAMP Rehoboth and More!

THIS PAGE (left to right) 1 ) at Santa Bar Crawl: Lynn Hackley, Emalee Sellers, Jim Brezinski, Ted Orzech, Danielle Alboro, Michelle Manfredi, Alonya Diamond, Bill Clark, Derek Thomas, Brian Shook, Jeff Cover, Max Dick, Glenn West, Herold Hannah, Meredith Baker Hruz, Patrick Hruz, John Cihak, Shawna Cihak, Kyle Ream, Steve Cannon, Fran Martin, Andrea Oagliarda, Lida Burber, Carla Held.

OPPOSITE PAGE 2) at Santa Bar Crawl: Edward Haurihan, Willis Bininger, Eric Engelhart, Tony Sowers, Chris Maloney, Mike DeFlavia, Chris Beagle, Victor Camacho, Will Delaney, Tracey Hepner, Tammy Smith, Matt Brown, Kristen Blood, Rob Weed, Tori Trombetta, Katie Brown, Karen Anderson, Brenda Dunn, Donna Shifflet, Kay Young, Jamie Kotchek, Tom Newton, Joe Matassino, Tim Murray, John Hackett.

(More CAMPshots page 58)

SCENES FROM REHOBOTH BEACH

(Continued from page 57)

THIS PAGE (left to right) 1) at CAMP Rehoboth Warm Winter Social: Rick Buske, Matt Lukasiak, Shawn McHugh, Vincent DeLissio, Tony Burns, John Swift, Ron Bowman, Coke Farmer, Denny Pintello, Kraig Turner, Joe Gfaller, Dennis Morgan, Polly Donaldson, Paul Christensen, Marilyn Hewitt, Kathleen Nilles, Gary Colangelo, RB Commissioner Suzanne Goode, Marvin Miller, Gary Seiden, Laurie Thompson, Mike DeFlavia, Wes Combs, Carla Burton, Marj Shannon, Evelyn Maurmeyer, Teri Seaton.

OPPOSITE PAGE: 2) at CAMP Rehoboth Warm Winter Social: Tom Negran, Barb Ralph, Marc-Anthony Worosilo, Marce McCollum-Martin, Alan Tuttle, Susan Leathery, Kevin Pelland, Philip Vehslage, Jim Mease; 3) at Rehoboth Community Unity Dinner: RB Mayor Stan Mills, DE US Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester, Citizen of the Year Chuck Snyder, Terry Kistler, RB Police Chief Keith Banks, Cindy Lovett, Kosta Tsoukalas, Kitty Cole, Niki Tsoukalas, Paul Lovett; 4 ) at CAMP Rehoboth Holiday Handmade Market: Jim Flanagan, Glenn Lash, Richard Thibodeau, Joey Colleli, Nadya Mursalimova, Guillermo Silveira, Coca Silveira, Matty Brown, Marce McCollum-Martin, Brad Cox.

(More CAMPshots page 76)

OUTlook

The Drums and Donald Trump

After it snowed a few weeks ago, we ended up with what looked like Donald Trump’s hair on our back deck. Words simply cannot describe the horror when the melting snow revealed more and more clearly the outline atop our grill. It’s the first thing I saw numerous days in a row when I sat down to coffee in the morning. And of course, there was revulsion at each glimpse as I worked through the day. Until it melts completely, I simply cannot avoid it. I can’t not see it every time I look out the window.

When I pointed this out to my wife, she said I’m online too much and that she didn’t really see it. To her, the shape looked more like a beaver; and then we both started naming things it looked like: a manatee, a lobster claw, a tampon! Even so, maybe I am online too much, but I still see the hair.

Let’s face it, no matter how much we may not like it, the “Melon Felon” is everywhere—it’s difficult to get away. Which makes it even more important than ever to create peaceful, healthy, safe havens, away from your phone, your iPad, computer, social media, news, and other media. It doesn’t have to be forever, even just a half-hour away helps me. Take a break. Look outside, walk around—preferably outside. Listen to music. Work a puzzle. Text and spend time with your friends. Love your family, however it is composed. Spend lots of time with your furbabies and other little ones.

It’s important to express your creativity, no matter how it comes out. Quilt, knit, do woodworking or pottery. Paint or draw a picture, write a story, sing or play some music.

As soon as my foot heals from a break resulting from a misstep going down the stairs in late October—there have been some setbacks and I’m not getting any younger—I’m going to start playing my drums again. I’ve been a part-time, working musician most of my life, but after the last band I was in went

on hiatus in 2018, I pretty much left the kit behind. I still pick up my guitar every once in a while.

But my drum kit, which was always to me the most fun instrument, sits all lonely

I can always tell it’s coming back when the tapping starts.

in the beautiful bay window of what used to be the dining room, all by itself. Sadly, all I do now is dust it. But I never took the kit down. Never “put it away.” And the dining room remains a dedicated, converted music rehearsal space. It’s just been waiting for me to come back.

I’m not panicked; I’ve gone for long stretches without playing before, just never quite this long. The truth is, I got sick of schlepping my drums to gigs, setting them up only to tear them down again, and taking them home and setting them up again. Rinse and repeat. It

BY BETH SHOCKLEY

keeps a girl in shape. But it’s exhausting. Being a working drummer is usually a younger woman’s game. But not necessarily. I don’t have to be in a band to play.

I can always tell it’s coming back when the tapping starts. I listen to music almost all the time, and I’ve noticed my hands and feet tapping out beats lately. There’s even been some…air drumming. Now all I need to do is make sure my foot is fully healed and be careful not to reinjure it. The plan is to play along with what’s streaming through the old PA system. That’s exactly how I started playing in the first place.

The other delightful thing about drumming is the sheer physicality and release that comes from hitting something, and the joy it brings, especially if I’m angry or frustrated, which is, let’s face it, a lot lately, what with the state of the world and everything. I used to enjoy boxing and karate for the same reason. But that was many years ago.

Today, what may be the most delicious thing about drumming is imagining the faces of Donald Trump (and the rest of his Cabinet!) on the drumheads, and even better—on the crashing cymbals. Now THAT is chef’s kiss perfect.

So I’m motivated. By the time this goes to print, hopefully Trump’s hair will have all melted away or been snowed back under. And soon, his imagined face will be on my snare drum. Yep, two snappy beats per measure in four-four time. Surely better days are to come. ▼

Beth Shockley is a retired writer and editor, and shares life with her wife and three kitty boys.

Photo by Sonia Kowsar on Unsplash.

Visiting View

The Concrete Jungle

Greetings Letters readers, Robby from Brooklyn here reporting on my move back to NYC from Fort Lauderdale. It seems kind of poetic that the snow is falling on this day. The snow is light enough that it is pretty. Having grown up near the beach on Long Island, I love all things ocean and water. I am shocked at the next sentence I am going to write: I am much happier in the frigid January NYC cold, and I do mean frigid, than I was in the July, August, September brutal heat of south Florida.

That being said, I am quite happy to report that this has been an excellent several weeks of assimilating back to NYC life. Professionally, socially, physically, mentally—everything has just been better for me here.

Professionally—obviously, the job market here is better than in Fort Lauderdale. I was just shocked at how much better. Since December 4, I have applied to more than 100 jobs on Indeed. (I would be lucky to apply for 10 jobs a month in FLL.) These range from teaching and tutoring jobs to seasonal and holiday work. I have also applied for remote data entry jobs. (I can type really fast—it’s my superpower.) Out of all these applications I have had at least eight interviews with two job offers. Both are in education, both part time. One is working as a substitute teacher for the 241 private, charter, independent schools throughout the five boroughs with the pay nearing $200 a day. By comparison, substitute teachers in FLL made $15 an hour. Big difference.

I also got a gig teaching STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, music) classes to K-5 students after school. This English teacher is broadening his skill set. I didn’t mention the fact that I failed my high school physics Regent test back in the day. (The test was actually after graduation and since I had already committed to an out of state school, a NY Regents Diploma wasn’t something

I needed.) As January continued and schools started up again, my phone has been ringing more and more—a much needed boost to my teaching ego.

You can’t be in NYC without taking advantage of the theater. I’ve seen three shows already, tickets all discounted. Today Tix and BroadwayBox.com are two

I am much happier in the frigid January NYC cold, and I do mean frigid, than I was in the July, August, September brutal heat of south Florida.

great sites for finding cheaper tickets to Broadway shows. Hell’s Kitchen, the Alicia Keys-penned musical was very good, but a very long two hours and 40 minutes. That’s exactly the length of the glorious Wicked movie, which I also saw and loved—even if it was 15 minutes too long. Hello adult ADHD. I also got to see The Big Gay Jamboree, and Eureka Day, both campy; both hysterical. Both were the perfect amount of time: 90 minutes, no intermission.

I was at a live broadcast of The View a few mornings ago. The luminous Brooke Shields was the guest. For future reference when coming to NYC: 1iota. com is where you can request FREE tickets to all of the talk shows that film here, including The Drew Barrymore Show, The Kelly Clarkson Show, Late Night with Stephen Colbert, and The Daily Show, just to name a few.

Socially, my friend group/support system is substantially larger here and— unlike in Florida—constantly growing. Contrary to the stereotype I’ve found NYC people to be much friendlier, much more open and inclusive.

BY ROBERT D e DOMINIC

I got to attend the Gays Against Guns holiday party. Check out our brand-new relaunched website at gaysagainstguns. org.

I also got to attend my friend Donald and Dennis’s annual Christmas party. The two are longtime partners in love and business. They own the fabulous Silberfuchs clothing company. Catering to the queer community with shirts, hoodies, hats, and tanks with words like QUEER, SNACK, VINTAGE, and DADDY, the party was literally hot guy central. Speaking of snacks—the homemade desserts were FAB!

Finally, giving back is a hallmark in my life, not just during the holidays but all year long. One morning very soon after my move back, I found myself in the Gods Love We Deliver kitchen helping the extraordinary staff and volunteers pack meals for those in need. GLWD has served a staggering 40 million since they opened their doors in 1985! I also started volunteering with SAGE, helping serve dinner to our older queer brothers and sisters. We owe them a huge debt of gratitude. They walked so we could run. And it’s fun!

Well readers, that’s about it for now. I am off to explore my city today. I’ve got the new Lianne Moriarty novel with me. I am ready for my next NYC adventure. Like Maleah Joy Moon sings in her Tony winning performance in the glorious finale of Hell’s Kitchen, “Concrete jungle where dreams are made of, there’s nothing you can’t do. Now you are in New York.”

I am in New York! ▼

Robert DeDominic is a queer freelance writer living in Brooklyn, NY. Follow Robert on Bluesky at robertdominic.bsky.social.

DON’T LET PROCRASTINATION

That "update will" note isn't getting any younger. Is it still there on your fridge, nestled between family photos and your grandchildren's artwork? While life moves forward – new homes, growing families, retirement plans – that note stays frozen in time. Perhaps it’s finally time to check it off the list, making sure your plan provides security and peace of mi nd not just for today, but for when your family needs it most.

help families shelter their savings from being depleted on the cost of long-term care.

help families create Wills, Powers of Attorney, and use Trusts to avoid probate.

BY LESLIE SINCLAIR

SPOTLIGHT ON THE arts

CAMP Rehoboth Puts Art at the Heart of Our Community

Roots and Resilience: Stories of Strength and Spirit

On Display Through March 28, 2025

ABOUT NATAKI OLIVER

By the time you read this, the opening reception for Roots and Resilience: Stories of Strength and Spirit already will have taken place. However, the good news is there’s still plenty of time to experience this inspiring juried exhibition celebrating the history, heritage, and creativity of communities of color. The exhibit will remain on display through March 28, 2025, showcasing a vibrant array of art across multiple mediums.

Coinciding with Black History Month and extending into Women’s History Month, Roots and Resilience offers a tapestry of culture, resilience, and identity. The exhibition features the work of 15 talented artists, each sharing their unique perspective and creative voice: Bryant T. Bell, Nicole Brooks, Valerie Brooks, S. Exum, Kiara Florez, Candy Fordjour Frimpong, Taylor Gordon, GUADJOSA, Sakreea Monay Jackson, Ann Martin, Carolina Mayorga, Amuri Morris, Chet’la Sebree, Coca Silveira, Crystal Stokowski, Winifred Way, and Shannon Woodloe.

The exhibition was juried by Nataki Oliver, founder and owner of The Sold Firm Art Gallery in Wilmington, Delaware. ▼

CAMP Rehoboth is honored to have Nataki Oliver as the juror for Roots and Resilience. Since establishing The Sold Firm in 2017, Oliver has become a leading figure in promoting both emerging and established artists throughout the tri-state area. Her curatorial expertise includes exhibitions at Bank of America, Delaware State University, and HBCU Week, all of which highlight diverse artists and artistic mediums.

Oliver’s unwavering dedication to fostering opportunities for underrepresented voices has significantly shaped the Delaware art community. Known for her discerning eye and passion for identifying new talent, she has been instrumental in launching the careers of many artists. Her mission aligns seamlessly with CAMP Rehoboth’s goal of cultivating a vibrant and inclusive arts environment.

Image (left) Homeless in DE by Winifred Way

At the opening reception for Roots and Resilience: Stories of Strength and Spirit: in front row, artist Ann Martin; back row (l-r): artists Caroline Mayorga, Winifred Way, Kiara Forez, Coca Silveira, Juror Nataki Oliver, artists Nikki Brooks, and Taylor Gordon. Photo credit: Leslie Sinclair.

CALL FOR ARTISTS

Women’s+ FEST Art: 2025

WSUBMISSION DEADLINE MARCH 14 2025

omen’s+ FEST is more than an event—it’s a celebration of creativity, inclusivity, and connection. This year, the beloved festival offers an exciting lineup of entertainment, workshops, and the much-anticipated juried art exhibition.

The addition of the “+” to the exhibition title reflects FEST’s commitment to welcoming trans, nonbinary, and all artists who embody and celebrate the feminine spirit.

The call for artists is now open! Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of an inspiring showcase of talent. Last year, the exhibition featured works by 33 artists and was a resounding success.

SCAN THE QR CODE to learn more about this year’s exhibition and submit your artwork by March 14, 2025. We can’t wait to see your creativity come to life! ▼

Leslie Sinclair is a member of the Delaware State Arts Council and a passionate leader of CAMP Rehoboth’s visual arts programs.

CAMP Rehoboth’s Visual Arts Program Salutes Leslie Sinclair

TheCAMP Rehoboth Visual Arts program salutes outgoing team lead Leslie Sinclair and her wife, Debbie Woods.

Says CAMP Rehoboth Executive Director Kim Leisey, “We are deeply appreciative to Leslie Sinclair for her leadership of the Visual Arts program here at CAMP Rehoboth. Leslie has led the program for many years and has developed a program that has a fabulous reputation across the state with the Delaware Division of the Arts, artists, and museum leadership.

“Leslie and her team have a keen eye for exhibition and produce wonderful receptions for our exhibition openings. Now, Leslie and Debbie are at a time in their lives where they’d like to focus on their own art interests (Leslie is a photographer and Debbie is a musician) and travel.” ▼

CAMP REHOBOTH IS SEEKING A VISUAL ARTS COORDINATOR)

CAMP Rehoboth looks forward to continuing Leslie’s legacy of lifting up the stories and expressions of life through the visual arts. If you’d like to help by serving as volunteer Coordinator of the Visual Arts program, we’d love to hear from you!

Please contact the office at 302-227-5620 and ask for Kim Leisey or Matt Castrina.

This program is supported, in part, by a grant from the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state agency, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts. The Division promotes Delaware arts events on DelawareScene.com.

(L-R): Debbie Woods and Leslie Sinclair at Roots and Resilience.

arts+entertainment

BOOKED SOLID

Murder in the Dressing Room by Holly Stars © 2025, Berkeley, $19 368 pages

Your alter-ego, the other half of your double life, is a superhero.

Where you’re quiet, she’s boisterous. Your confidence is flat, hers soars. She’s a better dresser than you are, she’s more popular, and maybe even a little smarter. By day, you live a normal existence. But by night, your other side roars and in the new mystery, Murder in the Dressing Room, by Holly Stars, both of you solve crimes.

Lady Lady had been a little off all evening. As owner of London’s most fabulous, elegant drag club, she was usually in command. But her protégée, Misty Devine, could tell that something was wrong.

She discovered just how wrong when she found Lady Lady on her dressing room floor, foaming at the mouth— dead, poisoned by a mysterious box of chocolates.

Hours later, Misty de-dragged, morphing from an elegant woman to an ordinary, binary hotel employee named Joe who was heartbroken by the tragedy. Only employees had access to Lady Lady’s dressing room—ergo, someone they knew at the club had to be the killer!

Obviously, the London detectives assigned to the case had a suspect list, but Misty/Joe and their boyfriend Miles

BY TERRI SCHLICHENMEYER

knew solving Lady Lady’s murder was really up to them. They knew who the killer wasn’t…but who it was, well, who had reason to kill Misty’s mentor?

Maybe Mandy, the club’s co-owner. The club’s bartender and bouncer were both sketchy. Lady Lady had spats with two employees and a former co-worker, but was that motive enough? When the dress Lady Lady was wearing that night proved to have been valuable stolen goods, Joe’s investigation list grew to include people who might have sneaked backstage when no one was paying attention, and a shady man who was suddenly following them around.

Then Misty learned that she was in Lady Lady’s will, and she figured the inheritance would be minor—but she got a huge surprise. Lady Lady’s posthumous gift could make others think that Misty might’ve had reason to kill her!

And just like that, the suspect list gained another entry….

When you first get Murder in the Dressing Room in your hands, hang onto it tight. It’s fun, and so fluffy and light that it might float away if you’re not careful. The story’s a little too long, as well, but there’s enjoyment to be had here, and authenticity enough to hold a reader’s attention.

Author Holly Stars is a drag performer in London and somewhat of a murder mystery maven there, which gives her insight into books of this genre and the ability to string readers along nicely with solid characters. If you’re unfamiliar with the world of drag, you’ll also learn a thing or two while you’re sleuthing through the story. Drag queens and kings will like the dual tale, and the settings that anchor it.

As a mystery, this is fun and different, exciting, but tame enough for any adult reader. If you love whodunits and you want something light, Murder in the Dressing Room is a double delight. ▼

Mardi Gras Indians

Their Mystique, Mirth, and Majesty

While many think of Mardi Gras in New Orleans as just one big party, look carefully and you will find a fascinating tradition that grew out of a cultural melting pot that included European Catholics, African tribes, and Indigenous peoples. It’s been threatened (and inspired) by racism, harassment, pandemics, and hurricanes. Mardi Gras Indians (also known as Black Masking Indians) have a history shrouded in secrecy, conflicting accounts, and lost records, but survive as a treasured phenomenon unique to New Orleans.

New Orleans was founded by the French in 1718, on land that had been inhabited by the Chitimacha Tribe for thousands of years. Other local tribes included the Choctaw, Seminole, and Chickasaw. The colonizing Europeans began bringing enslaved people from Africa. When slaves escaped, the Indigenous people hid them, taught them how to live off the land, and even assimilated them into their tribes. That generosity is still remembered today.

Mardi Gras began as a celebration of Carnival (a pre-Lent Christian festival). The first Mardi Gras parade held in New Orleans is said to have taken place in 1833. During the mid-1800s, Whites-only clubs in New Orleans created the custom of Mardi Gras kings and queens and restricted participation by Black Americans to subservient roles, often in costumes that reinforced racist stereotypes.

Excluded from mainstream celebrations and restricted by laws that controlled the activities of both enslaved and free Blacks, the African American community developed their own traditions, which included masking (dressing in costumes), dancing, drumming, parading…and paying tribute to both African culture and Native American heritage.

Evidence of Mardi Gras Indians dates to the 1880s, but the tradition is likely much older. Over time, dozens of tribes formed, and rivalries sometimes led to violence. Then, in the 1970s, tribal leaders worked together to end the fighting and

shift the focus to pageantry and friendly competition.

Today, tribes come out, led by their Big Chiefs, wearing spectacular suits that have taken up to a year to create. Each chief is accompanied by the Big Queen (always a woman) and a Flag Boy. The Spy Boy and Wild Man run ahead to awaken the neighborhood and seek out other tribes. They parade, showing

Evidence of Mardi Gras Indians dates to the 1880s…

off their suits, dance skills, and prowess, challenging other tribes and competing to prove they are the “prettiest.”

It is impossible to describe the beauty of the suits, which include intricate beading, towering feather displays, and other elements, many of which showcase Native American imagery and African designs. Pictorial panels help convey the theme the tribe has chosen.

The sewing of the suits, the roles within the tribe, and the associated traditions are passed down within families. Sons of Big Chiefs often follow in their fathers’ footsteps, learning and participating from an early age. Many talk of their experiences in spiritual terms. “It’s just something that comes over you,” the late Chief Joe Jenkins is quoted as saying in the documentary Guardians of the Flame. They speak emotionally about the importance of keeping the culture alive, despite the costs in time and money (suits can cost

BY NANCY SAKADUSKI

thousands of dollars to make).

Another New Orleans African American Carnival tradition is the Baby Dolls— women who parade wearing doll-like fancy dresses. Like the Mardi Gras Indians, they have deep cultural roots.

MEETING A BABY DOLL

I recently had the opportunity to visit the Backstreet Cultural Museum in the heart of New Orleans’ historic Tremé neighborhood. Started in a garage in 1988, the museum now contains the world’s most comprehensive collection related to New Orleans’ African American masking and processional traditions.

As I strolled through the small but jam-packed museum, admiring the spectacular costumes and artifacts, I chatted with LaCharlette Bouie, a culture bearer employed by the museum to tell the history and stories of the culture. She is also BabyDoll Ooh LaLa, a member of the Southern Belle Baby Dolls.

Baby Dolls date back to the Jazz Age or even earlier. Excluded from most Mardi Gras activities, women of color costumed themselves as doll babies, creating a celebration of their own.

Not everyone can be a Baby Doll, explained LaCharlette. “It is by invite or by legacy.” I asked her when she became a Baby Doll, thinking that she might have started as a youngster. “Oh, I was in my forties,” she said with a laugh.

The Baby Doll tradition went dormant for a time but is now back as an expression of empowerment and pride for women of color. Some come out only with a Mardi Gras Indian tribe, but others have their own groups and activities. “This will be our group and my five-year anniversary,” La Charlette says, looking forward to the upcoming Mardi Gras on March 4. ▼

Nancy Sakaduski is an award-winning writer and editor who owns Cat & Mouse Press in Lewes, Delaware.

Pictured above: some of the spectacular Mardi Gras Indian suits on display at the Backstreet Cultural Museum in New Orleans. Photo courtesy of the author.

DEANNA FITZPATRICK

JERSEY BOYS THE STORY OF FRANKIE VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONS 23 SHOWS: THROUGH MARCH 9

Psychic Medium Feb 23 - 7:30PM CELTICA NOVA Celtic Rock Band March 13 - 7:30PM M A R C H 2 8 - D E S T I N A T I O N S O U L T O W N : W i t h T h e S e n s a t i o n a l S o u l C

Q Puzzle The Color Purple Solution on Page 92

Celebrity Interview

Alyssa Edwards Is Officially “Crowned”

And Hits the Road for a New Tour

Find the biggest wigs you can find and the most outlandish costumes and be open to the idea that drag is a cultural language.

Hundreds of queens have come through the RuPaul’s Drag Race Werk Room globally, but there is only one Alyssa Edwards. Whether it was her premiere season on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 5, her All Stars 2 return, or winning the crown on the inaugural season of RuPaul’s Drag Race Global All Stars, Alyssa Edwards is a certified icon. As she embarks on her own global tour this year (titled appropriately “Crowned”), I sat down to chat with her. We went deep on her Global All Stars experience, the relationships she developed while here, and truly, why drag remains so very magical to her.

MICHAEL COOK: Last year you won the inaugural season of RuPaul’s Drag Race Global All Stars and now you are moving on to your own international tour, aptly titled “Crowned” this year. It’s a good time to be Alyssa Edwards, that is for sure!

ALYSSA EDWARDS: Thank you so much and thank you for being a part of this journey! I wouldn’t have had this opportunity if so many people hadn’t supported, rallied behind, clapped, applauded, and showed up. Now I am just full of emotion and just so grateful.

Right now, I am in my getting ready room and I am looking around and I remember wearing “this” there, and I remember doing “that”—and that is the reminder. Through all of the ups and downs that come along with this, that is what makes the inner fight within so worth it; that it is the power of drag that unites us all.

MC: Could you have anticipated this at all?

AE: Did I see all of this coming? To be entirely honest, there were a lot of doubts about me. The “what if” when this project sat on my desk and I started second guessing and questioning myself: Am I too old? Do I still have the magic that was there in All Stars 2? What if I don’t have the energy?

BY MICHAEL COOK

Then I just said to myself—What If? What if you just dared yourself to accept this challenge with open arms and an open heart and carry it on? Find the biggest wigs you can find and the most outlandish costumes and be open to the idea that drag is a cultural language. While we all may speak it and celebrate it differently, it is what unites us all.

MC: For each of you on Global All Stars, it was about the journey and where each of you came from both globally and in terms of your experiences. Your journey went from your original Drag Race Season 5 to All Stars 2 to Alyssa’s Secret to Global All Stars and now the Crowned tour. Did that girl bring you here or is it like looking back at another person?

AE: Good question! I giggle (laughs). This is interesting for me to say out loud, but I get weird about watching myself on TV. I was watching some clips of myself on Season 5 and I giggled out loud. That was an interesting time in my life, I was like the real-life Hannah Montana of Mesquite, Texas; no one really knew that I did drag.

Being queer here in the South and a drag queen in the South, I didn’t think I would be well received. I was totally wrong. Everyone celebrated me when that Season 5 promo came out. Fast forward from that to All Stars 2, taking the backrolls and turning them into bankrolls and getting in on the giggle with that. I learned not to take everything so seriously, you know? I remember RuPaul told me during Season 5, he said "Alyssa you are so funny.” I was offended; I was like “I’m being very serious with you right now.” And that’s what made it hilarious.

I look back and I thank that lady from Season 5. I thank that lady for being brave and courageous, I thank that lady for being silly and campy and funny. I got on that TV show and said “What is America’s Next Drag Superstar gonna do, travel around the world and tell jokes?” Now I’m traveling around the world, telling the story, and laughing! I have learned

so much. So I thank that lady. I thank that lady for taking the first step. Throwing their hands up in the air and saying, “Here I am!” She is a fighter, a dreamer, and a doer. I know her—and I am proud of her.

MC: You and Tessa Testicle from Drag Race Germany truly hit it off; has that relationship continued?

AE: Totally unexpected, I go in and this queen from Germany beelines across the Werk Room! Tessa had one goal (laughs)! I’ll tell you, I get very emotional talking about this because this is the magic of it all. She wrote me this letter, and this is a testament to what drag can do…. I’ll just read a little bit of it; I can’t read all of it because I’ll be a bawling mess!

She wrote, “Justin, I still remember

It goes above and beyond the wigs, lashes, and fingernails; you gave someone a world to believe in.

being a little gay boy searching for pieces of myself and looking for heroes who didn’t just walk the path, they dance, they kick, and they twirl their way through it, just like you did. You were the beacon that showed me it was okay to be exactly who I am and to celebrate. Now here you are, standing at the top. It just reminds me and the whole world just how far love, determination, and just a little Mesquite Texas sass can take us.”

MC: It sounds like moments like this are the magic of drag that we hear talked about so much….

AE: Absolutely. That is when you know you made an impact on people. It goes above and beyond the wigs, lashes, and fingernails; you gave someone a world to

believe in. I learned so much about myself throughout this experience and this journey. Throughout my worldwide travels, a lot of life lessons learned, no regrets. I am everything that I am today because of all of that. This is a magical moment.

For all things Alyssa Edwards, follow her on Instagram: instagram.com/ alyssaedwards_1/?hl=en

Michael Cook has been a part-time resident of Rehoboth Beach for over a decade. He is currently a contributor to WERRRK.com., OUTSFL, and the Philadelphia Gay News.

Photos: courtesy of Paramount Plus/World of Wonder

SCENES FROM REHOBOTH BEACH

(Continued from page 59)

THIS PAGE (left to right) 1) at Aqua: Palmer Sampson, Billy Porter, David Briggs, Leo Conrad; 2) at Diego’s: Alex Reed, Brian Gray, Charlie Jones, Brian Principe, Charlie Browne, Sandra Skidmore, Rod Cook, Brian Sparrow, John Bator, Brian Buebel, Kevin Naff, Matty Allen, Austin Taylor, Tammy Costello, Billy Costello, Brad Scanlan, Greg Davies, Brad Wing, Tom Graham, Scott Forman, Paul Frene, John Hurley, Jeff Donovan, Michelle Hall, Todd Sorensen, William Hill; 3) at Purple Parrot: Jeff Enck, Steve Fisher, Mark Koppersmith, Mike Reimer, Christian Becker. OPPOSITE PAGE 4) at Purple Parrot: Laura Mason, Nancy Kaiser, Sharon Miken, Mary McElhone, David Gonce, Yolanda Mendoza, Brian Mendoza, Kurt Hochstuhl, Ken Horn, Steve Papel, Jerry Clark, Rich Norcross, Cory Peterson, Tim Langran, Lowell Scott, Jacob Anthony; 5) at Blue Moon: Randy Haney, Artez West, Tim Ragan, Summer Schizel, Miss Mann, Roxy Overbrooke, Jean Louise, Magnolia Applebottom; 6) at Eden: Jutine Berdini, John Berdini, Kyle Berdini, Matthew Berdini, Cory Rose, Jeff Rose.

(More CAMPshots page 78)

(Continued from page 77)

THIS PAGE (left to right) 1) at Mix and Mingle Night at Freddie’s Beach Bar: Freddie Lutz, Patrick Yoder, Cheryl Siskin, Joe Hayden, Marce McCollum-Martin, Chad Stover, Mike Kluk, Kevin Pelland: 2) at Rigby's Holiday Party: Ricky DiDominic, John Glenstrup, Mike McLean, Michael Davitt, Paul Frene: 3) at Coastal Concerts: Joosep Reimaa, Elizabeth Stewart, Stergios Theodoridis, Peter Wiley, Marija Raisanen, Roberto Diaz, Carol Dennis, Kimberly Cann, Michael Leibowitz, Michelle Cann, Norma Morris, Daniel Bruner, Lisa Evans; 4) at ACLU/ Sussex Pride Quilt Decorating Night at Lewes Public Library: Carina Christenbury, David Mariner, Vienna Cavazos, Samantha Maloney-Gracie, Norma Eckard.

OPPOSITE PAGE 5) at RB Museum Piano Recital: Victor Frush, Kyrstian Jamrozek, Heidi Nasstrom Evans, Stephen Cole; 6) at Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington Cabaret at CAMP Rehoboth: Jimmy Villareale, Mike English, Mary Ann Egger, Maggie Ottato, Barbara Carrow, Shawn Morris, Thea Kano, Tommy Adams, Kim Leisey, Josh Myers, James Trinidad, Demitrian Cook, Wayne Hodge; 7) at Gay Women of Rehoboth’s New Year’s Eve Jingle Ball: Pixie Snyder, Lisa Gilley, Carol Scileppi, Valerie McNickol, DE State Rep. Claire Snyder-Hall, Mikki Snyder-Hall; 8) at Drag King Showcase at The Top of the Pines: Lovey Love, Sauvage, Les Boman, Shady P, Orpheus Rose; 9) at Edmund Bagnell at Clear Space Theatre: Mark Hartman, Edmund Bagnell.▼

There Is Good News in Delaware!

Just When You May Need It Most…

What’s happening in other states and at the national level is frightening for our community. We face increasingly repugnant rhetoric. Hate crimes have skyrocketed. Hundreds of anti-LGBTQ+ bills have been introduced in state legislatures and many of them have passed into law. But as I emphasized during comments at a recent LGBTQ+ rally, “There is good news in Delaware!” In fact, Delaware ranks among the best states for LGBTQ+ individuals and families to live.

In 2020, along with Senators Sarah McBride and Marie Pinkney, it was my honor to be one of the first openly LGBTQ+ individuals ever elected to the Delaware General Assembly. In one election cycle, we went from no seats at the table in Dover to three. Just five years later, we have five LGBTQ+ legislators who span the rainbow spectrum. We’ve had terrific allies in Dover for years but it’s not the same as a seat at the table. Before 2020, Delaware had already made major steps forward in terms of LGBTQ+ rights and protections. In 2011, Delaware became the eighth state to recognize same-sex civil unions. Two years later, Delaware became the 11th state to legalize same-sex marriage. (During this time, Sen. Karen Peterson came out and became the first openly LGBTQ+ individual ever to serve in the Delaware General Assembly.) In 2018, Delaware banned “conversion therapy” for LGBTQ+ minors.

When I was elected in 2020, I pledged to keep fighting for our community. In 2021, I worked with Sen. Marie Pinkney to modernize and expand our hate crimes statute. Senate Bill (SB) 144 did several important things. It updated the definition of a hate crime to include a crime motivated partially—and not just in whole—by hate. It established that individuals can be prosecuted whether or not the victim actually belongs to a minority group. (Before this legislation, for example, if the perpetrator perceived the victim as gay but the victim was not,

the perpetrator couldn’t be charged with a hate crime.)

SB 144 also clarified that a hate crime can be motivated by hate for a group and not just an individual, instituted higher penalties for hate crimes committed against minors, allowed for civil remedies for victims, and required tracking and public posting of Delaware hate crime statistics.

…we have five LGBTQ+ legislators who span the rainbow spectrum.

In 2023, my House Bill (HB) 142 made us the 17th state to ban the LGBTQ+ panic defense, a legal strategy asking a jury to find that a victim’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression is to blame for a defendant’s violent reaction up to and including murder. One of the defendants in the Matthew Shepard case attempted to use this defense, which has been around since the 1800s. The defense has been used successfully at least to significantly reduce a perpetrator’s sentence. It has been used in Delaware multiple times.

In recent years, efforts have been successful in making Delaware law more inclusive of the entire LGBTQ+ community, ensuring that every individual in our community enjoys the same protections. In 2021, Rep. Kendra Johnson’s HB 224 made the definitions of sexual orientation and gender identity consistent throughout Delaware law and in alignment with federal law. Last year, my HB 275 added asexuality and pansexuality to the definition of sexual orientation in Delaware law.

In 2021, Rep. Sean Lynn’s HB 111 prohibited discrimination in the issuance or renewal of disability, long-term care, and life insurance based on an individual’s use of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Last year, Sen. Sarah McBride followed up with SB 194, allowing phar-

BY ERIC MORRISON

macists to provide HIV pre-exposure and post-exposure prophylaxis treatments. Also last year, my HB 19 added a Pride license plate to the list of special license plates Delawareans may request, with a portion of proceeds benefiting the United Way of Delaware Pride Council which serves Delaware LGBTQ+ youth. (For more information about the Pride plate, see the Delaware DMV’s “Special Plates” page.)

Work continues in the current General Assembly session. Currently, I am working on two pieces of legislation directly impacting the LGBTQ+ community. The first bill would align non-discrimination categories throughout Delaware law. (Right now, different non-discrimination areas of Delaware law include different minorities.) The second bill would require non-discrimination in state-funded public accommodations. Also, Rep. DeShanna Neal continues their work on legislation providing the same legal protections afforded providers of contraceptive and abortion services to providers of gender-affirming healthcare.

Not everything we’ve accomplished in Delaware has come through legislation. For example, I’ve partnered with the state to update plumbing regulations, mandating the roll-out of a requirement that all public single-stall bathrooms be gender-neutral with appropriate signage. I’ve worked with the Department of Corrections to hire a consultant to advise on issues related to transgender and nonbinary inmates. I’ve met with multiple middle and high school GSAs, passed annual resolutions since 2020 declaring June as Pride Month in Delaware, and worked with the governor’s office to increase the United Way of Delaware’s Pride Council tenfold.

I know things look bad for our community right now. But please remember: “There is good news in Delaware!” ▼

Eric Morrison serves as state representative for the 27th District which includes parts of Newark, Bear, and Middletown.

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Historical Headliners

Party On! The Savoy Ball Room

There are after-parties and there are after-parties. In 1920s and ‘30s New York, the swingin’-est and classiest after-parties were held in the city’s famous Harlem neighborhood. It was the era of the Harlem Renaissance, the Jazz Age years when African American culture blossomed, and its literature, fine art, performances—and especially music—became major elements of American culture as a whole. Its influence is still felt today.

Fabulous nightclubs and vast dance halls opened in the heart of the neighborhood: the Cotton Club, Small’s Paradise, the Savoy Ball Room, the Rockland Palace, the Hei-Dee-Ho, and others. Patrons from all over the city, and visitors from around the country and even around the world, visited these famous nightspots. Some, like the Cotton Club, however, admitted only White patrons into their establishments, despite the fact that all the musicians, singers, and dancers were Black. Other venues attracted a primarily Black clientele. But the Rockland Palace and the Savoy welcomed everyone.

Of those two big dance halls (the Rockland Palace could hold about 6,000 people; the Savoy Ball Room about 4,000) the Savoy was known as the class act, an elegant hall fitted out in pink décor, mirrored walls, crystal chandeliers, a marble staircase, and a block-long polished mahogany dance floor that was spring-supported to give a bit of bounce to the Jitterbugging and Lindy Hopping dancers. The floor was cleaned and polished every night to keep it in prime condition for dancing. The perfection of the dance floor attracted the best swing dancers in New York. The era’s best swing bands, especially Chick Webb’s band, Benny Goodman’s, Count Basie’s, even the Duke Ellington Orchestra, played at the Savoy. The Savoy’s patrons danced to the hottest music in town.

At 3:00 a.m., the standard closing time for the city’s nightspots on weeknights, and 4:00 a.m. on Saturday night, many in the nightly crowd took their tired feet

home. But that’s when the after-party of all after-parties started: the Savoy Ball Room Drag Ball.

The Harlem Renaissance of the period, and the Black culture that dominated it, was a messenger of adventurous fashion. The Savoy’s Drag Balls featured elegantly, exotically, and flamboyantly dressed performers and attendees, both Black and White. The balls were also multi-gendered, featuring gay men, lesbians, and the cross-section of genders we identify today as nonbinary, gender fluid, trans, and so on. The highlight of the ball was a drag competition, honoring the most elegantly—or outrageously— dressed in a variety of categories across genders.

The balls were a social sensation among Harlem’s creative Black and LGBTQ+ elite. Poets Langston Hughes, Countee Cullen, and Zora Neale Hurston, among others, would regularly attend, as would blues greats and lesbians Bessie Smith and Ma Rainey, and drag performer Gladys Bentley. The sub rosa nature of the after-hours balls attracted White patrons, too, from the city’s high society and show business crowds. On any given middle-of-the-night through the pre-dawn hours, adventure-seeking socialites, male and female, made their way uptown to Lenox Avenue to enjoy the show, or even participate safely—a pleasure denied them in their everyday life in the straight world.

BY ANN APTAKER

The Savoy is generally credited with being the first fully integrated ballroom in America…

The Savoy is generally credited with being the first fully integrated ballroom in America, where Blacks and Whites could dance together freely, and queer folk were welcomed and appreciated. What mattered during the regular evening sessions were the music and the skill of the dancers. What mattered during the after-hours drag balls was the originality of the drag performers and attendees. By the time of the Savoy Ball Room’s heyday of the 1920s and ’30s, Harlem had an already long tradition of drag balls. But unlike the often hidden, deeply secret balls of the 19th and early 20th centuries, where raids and arrests always loomed as threats, the drag balls at the Savoy Ballroom were generally celebratory affairs, where hatred was left outside the door and creativity and freedom of expression were enjoyed within.

The glamour of the Savoy’s drag balls lingers in New York’s drag culture today. In the face of ongoing anti-gay prejudice, particularly against drag performers and trans folk, members of the drag community have created family units where questioning youth can find acceptance, safety, and creativity.

The celebration continues. ▼

Ann Aptaker is the author of short stories and the Lambda & three-time Goldie award winning Cantor Gold series. Her latest book is A Crime of Secrets.

BE THE EXAMPLE

MELISSA ETHERIDGE’S Guide to Joy, Resilience, and Unity

For some perspective on recent assaults on LGBTQ+ rights brought by the Trump administration, turning to a gay icon with decades of experience in resilience and unity is always worthwhile. Our community can draw inspiration from Etheridge’s strength, activism, and the unwavering fortitude she’s embodied since her highly public coming out in 1993. Through the unapologetic truth expressed in her music and embodied in her public persona, Etheridge’s voice has consistently carried a message of hope and authenticity.

For Etheridge, the stage is more than a place for entertainment—it’s a platform for healing and connection. Currently on

tour, she’ll soon embark on what is bound to be one of the queerest tours of 2025: a co-headlining run with the Indigo Girls that kicks off in Colorado in July. Her message remains clear: through joy, music, and inclusion, we can weather life’s storms together.

I caught up with Etheridge during a particularly trying week, as the LA fires left her and many others reeling. Power outages at her home almost forced her to reschedule our interview, but she and her wife, Linda Wallem, eventually found refuge at a hotel in Santa Barbara.

In this candid conversation, Etheridge opens up about the transformative power of rebuilding and her long history with the Indigo Girls, and shares lessons learned

BY CHRIS AZZOPARDI

from decades of being a trailblazer.

CHRIS AZZOPARDI: We’ve connected throughout the years through some challenging times. I can’t imagine what you’re feeling right now.

MELISSA ETHERIDGE: Well, we are right on the edge. We’re in Calabasas, so that’s on the edge of the Palisades fire. Our power’s up. We did evacuate, but my house is going to be fine. To know that the Palisades are gone, it is just like…. It doesn’t hit my head, and this is my city. This is where I eat. Restaurants I eat at once a month, they’re gone. And it’s overwhelming. I know it will come back so beautifully, and so I know it’s going to be a good thing in the long, beautiful run as change is, but man, this is devastating.

CA: Where do you go in your head in a time like this? Do you turn to music?

...let’s be an example of...a unified community ourselves...

ME: My wife and I were talking last night—we got away far enough and we’re safe and OK—and then you turn on the news and you see it, and you can’t go backwards now. There is no backwards anymore. It’s not there. And when we think, wow…as we move forward now, let’s make sure the institutions we create and the housing and the infrastructure we create is what we’ve been spouting all these years. That it’s a forward-thinking, diversified, embracing kind of city we want to build.

CA: There’s no other way to rebuild but to unify.

ME: Exactly.

CA: Well, it feels almost awkward to talk to you about work. I know for me, it’s good for me to go into my writing head in difficult times, so maybe that’s also good for you?

ME: That’s exactly what I did. I’m about to record my next album and I’m going into the studio in March, and so I’ve been really writing and just soaking everything in. And last night, all of a sudden, I was like, “Oh god, I want to write a song about this experience.” I wouldn’t be surprised if there was a song about Los Angeles or Hollywood.

I would encourage the activists now, people in the LGBTQ+ community, to work for something and not against something.

CA: How did you and the Indigo Girls, Amy Ray and Emily Saliers, decide on “Yes We Are” as the name of this tour?

ME: Well, we did about 11 shows last year. It was part of my tour and their tour, and we had such a blast together. We caught up. We loved the audience. The audience that came to see us was on fire. They were enthusiastic. It was very cathartic, like, everything we’ve been going through, let’s just remember the songs we love. Remember the songs that made us feel good.

And it was multi-generational, which I loved. There were daughters with their mothers, with their grandmothers. The whole family would come. Of course, it was very queer, but it wasn’t exclusively queer. There were a lot of straight folks out there listening to that music they liked in the ’90s.

CA: What do you remember from first meeting the Indigo Girls?

ME: My first album [in 1988] was out when I met them, and their big album wasn’t out yet. And I remember they were such fans. They were just really, really sweet. Someone brought them over to my house. I didn’t know who they were, and it wasn’t until I listened to them and went, “Oh, this is great.” I wore that “Closer to Fine” album out. It was a staple of that

time, and I just loved seeing everything they did. It was just a really special time back then.

CA: There were so few out queer people in the ’80s when you initially met. Did you bond over all being gay public figures?

ME: Yes, and we both came from that deep women’s culture, lesbian culture, and women’s music festivals. They came from the Southern coalition. I came from Southern California, the San Francisco kind of lesbian, gay, bi [world]. AIDS had really brought us all together. They were a big part of the indie music movement that was coming out of Athens, Georgia, at the time with R.E.M. So it was a very musically driven time and they just happened to be gay.

I always tell people that the late ’80s and early ’90s was, “Don’t ask, don’t tell.” We were all out, but we just didn’t cross that line publicly where we were saying, “I’m gay” until I finally did in 1993. We were more political, not so much about gay, but about women’s rights. And we did a lot of reproductive rights stuff back then with [women’s liberation activist] Gloria Steinem. So then the gay thing just developed, and we just followed the path. CA: Thinking back to your activism in the ’90s, did you think this is where we would be as an LGBTQ+ community in 2025? And how do you think you can bridge music and activism at this point in your career?

ME: I remember speaking in 1994 about gay marriage, and it was a very foreign idea. It was just a weird thing to even say. And even in the gay community, we never even thought about marriage because we weren’t going to marry. It just wasn’t possible. Then the whole LGBTQ+ community went, “Wait a minute, I deserve that too. That’s right, I’m part of this ‘we the people.’” The community came together behind that.

CA: There is now a queer uprising happening in reaction to the current administration. What do you say to young queer activists, having seen so much

yourself, especially the ones who may think they’re fighting for something that is a new fight?

ME: Well, is it a new fight? Is it or not? Because I think what’s always considered is, “Hey, I just want to be considered one of the many,” and this idea of “all of us—except for them,” is being tried in our society.

That’s what we’re really saying, because people can’t even understand the many different layers and differences in our own community. So it’s just not even, “Give us these things, stop taking away these things, stop taking away the protections that you would give any other human being.”

We are just human beings, and it’s showing what being human means. And so I would encourage the activists now, people in the LGBTQ+ community, to work for something and not against something. It’s when we work against it that we give more energy to it than it deserves, so let’s work for inclusion. Let’s work for unity.

And let’s be an example of being a unified community ourselves, who may say, “Look, I don’t understand some things, but being a human being is a right. And you can make whatever choice you want, whether it’s to change your gender identity or to be a Republican and hate. I give you that. You have the right to do that.”

And it’s very hard, but let’s be the example of that. Accepting and loving ourselves is the example. Let’s show how that looks, and that’s the best thing we can do to work for and fight for inclusion. ▼

Chris Azzopardi is the Editorial Director of Pride Source Media Group and Q Syndicate, the national LGBTQ+ wire service. Reach him via Twitter @chrisazzopardi.

Photo opposite page by James Moes; photo above by Primary Wave.

The REAL DIRT

Rosemary & Thyme—Herbs for All

Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) and thyme (Thymus vulgaris) are two of the most revered evergreen herbs in the world. These aromatic plants have been used for centuries in culinary, medicinal, and cultural practices. Originating from the Mediterranean region, they have become staples in gardens and apothecaries worldwide due to their resilience, versatility, and enchanting folklore.

Rosemary is from the Lamiaceae family and originated in the Mediterranean region. It is considered a woody perennial evergreen herb and grows in planting zones 7-10. Rosemary’s growth habit is upright and bushy with needle-like aromatic leaves.

Rosemary prefers full sun (six to eight hours per day) and well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. Propagate rosemary through cuttings or

seeds, spacing plants two to three feet apart to allow for airflow. (Rosemary is susceptible to powdery mildew and root rot, so proper airflow is essential.) It is ideal for container gardening or raised beds. It is drought-tolerant once established. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot, and prune after flowering to encourage bushy growth.

Rosemary also repels many pests due to its strongly aromatic leaves. In addition, rosemary is popular in Mediterranean dishes, used in meat rubs, soups, and breads, and even infused in oils and vinegars.

Medicinally, rosemary is considered an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, being rich in carnosic acid. It also helps with digestion and is associated with cognitive improvement.

Rosemary has long been associated with mystical properties of protection, purification, and remembrance. It is often correlated with the element of fire, the sun, and with the goddess Aphrodite. It can be hung above doorways for spiritual defense, carried by brides for love and faithfulness, and can be used to clear negative energies and purify spaces.

Thyme is also in the Lamiaceae family. It comes from southern Europe and Mediterranean regions. It also is an evergreen perennial herb and can be found in planting zones 5-9. Thyme is a low-growing, spreading, woody perennial with tiny aromatic leaves.

Thyme prefers full sun and well-draining, sandy soil with a pH range of 6.08.0. It grows well from seed or cuttings; space plants 12-18 inches apart. Thyme is ideal for ground cover or rock gardens as it is drought-resistant once mature. Trim after flowering to maintain its shape. Thyme is generally pest-resistant due to its strong essential oils, but watch for root rot in poorly drained soil.

Thyme is common in Mediterranean and French cuisine, used in soups, stews, and roasted vegetables. It is essential in spice blends like Herbes de Provence. Medicinally, thyme has antiseptic and antimicrobial properties due

BY ERIC W. WAHL

to thymol content. It may help with colds and congestion, as well as bloating and indigestion.

Rosemary and thyme, with their rich histories and potent properties, offer far more than culinary delights.

Thyme has long been linked to courage, healing, and prosperity. It is associated with the element water, the planet Venus, and the goddess Freya. Thyme was carried by warriors for bravery in battle and used in healing sachets and baths. It was even sprinkled around homes to attract wealth and placed under pillows to ward off nightmares. Brew thyme tea before a challenging event to inspire courage or mix thyme with cinnamon and basil for an abundance charm.

These herbs can be companion planted due to their similar care requirements. Both thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them perfect for Mediterranean-style herb gardens.

Rosemary and thyme, with their rich histories and potent properties, offer far more than culinary delights. Their mystical qualities make them essential tools for any spiritual practitioner or herbalist. Whether you grow them for their beauty, aroma, or metaphysical powers, these herbs will undoubtedly enrich your life. By understanding their growing needs and cultural correspondences, you can harness the full potential of rosemary and thyme for both everyday use and mystical workings.

Be safe, and let’s garden together. ▼

Eric W.

Wahl

is Landscape Architect at Pennoni Associates, and President of the Delaware Native Plant Society.

AGING IN ANOTHER PLACE

As Time Goes By

Staying as healthy as possible for as long as possible is top of mind for most of us. The Health & Wellness column in the December issue of Letters outlined numerous ways to do just that.

However, there may come a time to determine if your health or the health of a loved one is declining and that a change in lifestyle or living conditions is the right choice. It is important to know what options are available.

An excellent resource for just about everything on the topic is the Delaware Aging and Disability Resource Center (dhss.delaware.gov/dsaapd/adrc.html).

Lifestyle change may simply mean relocating to a 55-plus or retirement community. There are pros and cons to both. Many 55-plus communities boast built-in amenities like fewer exterior maintenance chores, landscaping services, fitness rooms, walking/biking trails, club houses, pools, and a myriad of social activities. Two examples are Heritage Shores in Bridgeville and Bay Crossing in Lewes.

Retirement communities offer similar amenities with added features like meals, personal care options, and enhanced security.

One of the cons for both is having to pay a monthly HOA fee that can significantly range in cost depending on what is included. The Moorings (mentioned in the December column) is one example of a full-service retirement community.

Two newer, up-scale establishments are The Homestead in Rehoboth Beach and the Lodge in Lewes. Both are Truitt complexes. The Homestead focuses on independent living, including a sizable apartment-style building and single-family homes.

The Lodge in Historic Lewes offers independent living, assisted living, and a memory care unit all housed in one tastefully decorated building divided into specific sections. Milford Place (in Milford) is another, less expensive option.

Care can be expensive. Assisted living and memory-care facilities can top

$10,000 per month. It might be prudent to consider long term care Insurance.

Stay-at-home patients might need fullor part-time professional caregivers, who also can be costly. “I think it is important to accept that care costs money. And if your loved one is at home, get help and get help early,” said CAMP Rehoboth member Jen Leonard, who cared for her father who had Alzheimer’s. “Professional caregivers have a lot of tips and tricks that can make your life easier.”

Caring for dementia patients… is particularly challenging.

“If funds dwindle, long term care Medicaid can be a helpful service to keep loved ones at home. The caregiver could get paid to prevent the additional financial stress of not being able to work, if the caregiver is still working,” says Liz Miller, LCSW.

She says there are ways to protect spousal assets, enabling spouses to maintain their own needs. “They do a five-year look-back for transfer of assets, so keep that in mind as well. We never know when we will need care and do not want that [look-back period] to impede us from getting the care we need,” she said. Differentiating between palliative care and hospice care is important. Both concentrate on patient needs and their quality of life. Palliative care focuses on maintaining the highest quality of life while managing treatment and other needs.

BY MARY JO TARALLO

Hospice care focuses on the period closest to death and does not necessarily mean going to a hospice facility. It can be care that takes place at home. It is a specialized type of palliative care for patients suffering from an incurable illness or multiple illnesses, with a life expectancy of six months or less.

Delaware Hospice and Compassionate Care are two options. Delaware Hospice also has a palliative care division.

Caring for dementia patients (Alzheimer’s disease is one type of dementia) is particularly challenging. Leonard advocates getting the necessary paperwork done to help a loved one and be their advocate, legally. “You often think ‘these things can wait; my loved one will improve.’ But with Alzheimer’s they don’t really improve.” Paperwork may mean putting assets in a trust to better protect them.

Leonard also recommends talking to the families of those living in a facility, doing due diligence, and spending time there. For those who can participate, facility life can be rewarding due to many activity options.

She warns that costs for dementia or Alzheimer’s patients can increase with additional needed care. They may not be able to use a call button or understand some of the facility living nuances, in which case memory care or skilled nursing should be considered. She knows from experience that there is no guarantee a facility will be able to keep a loved one if the disease leads to behavioral problems.

“Appreciate today, although your loved one isn’t the same,” she urged. “Appreciate what they can still do, not what they can no longer do or what they lost. Spend time with them and try to understand their personality so you can provide advice to assist in their care. Use the resources and family available to you. It takes a village.” ▼

Mary Jo Tarallo is a former journalist and public relations professional for various nonprofits.

Shannon Christie Keith

Shannon Christie Keith, 47, of Lewes, passed away Thursday, December 12, 2024. Her loving wife, Michelle Kelly, survives.

Shannon was born September 8, 1977, in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, daughter of Joseph Marino (and companion Kathleen Eva Reviello), of Old Forge, Pennsylvania, and the late Candace Brodhead Marino. She graduated from Marywood University with both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in arts, media, and communication, and also earned a Master of Fine Arts degree in digital cinema from National University. To earn that degree, she wrote, produced, directed, and filmed a movie called Glass House as her graduate thesis.

Shannon initially worked for the Scranton Times and was the editor for the Triboro Banner newspaper. She then moved to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where she worked at the Democratic Caucus. She later became the director of digital content, strategy, and media relations for the Delaware House Dem-

Michael F. Behringer

Mike Behringer, 62, of Rehoboth Beach, passed away December 11, 2024. He was born October 19, 1962, in Wilmington, to the late Francis and Helen Behringer.

Mike graduated from Salesianum School and University of Delaware, then went to work for the USPS. He started as a letter carrier and then worked in various management positions, eventually finding a home in the marketing and sales departments. Before retiring after a dedicated 40-year career, he served as postmaster of Ocean View.

Mike enjoyed traveling to tropical destinations, always making sure there was a good beach nearby. Eventually, in 2010, Mike and his husband, Nelson, finally made the leap and built their home in Rehoboth Beach, a dream of theirs for many years.

Mike was a loving husband and father, sharing his life with his husband, Nelson Correa, with whom he celebrated over 30 years of partnership. He was a proud father to two cherished sons, Mason and Logan, both at home, who will remember him for his unwavering love and guidance.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, stjude.org. ▼

ocrats. She was also a professor of Arts, Media, and Communications at Keystone College, Southern New Hampshire University, University of Scranton, and Luzerne County Community College. Shannon also was the sound director for several bands in the Delaware area.

Shannon was a parishioner of All Saints’ Episcopal Church, Rehoboth Beach, where she belonged to its parochial vestry.

Surviving, in addition to her wife and father, are her brother, Matthew Keith (Lisa); her sister, Samantha Marino (fiancé Mark); her stepson, Joshua Kelly (Lauren); and many extended family and friends.

Shannon’s Celebration of Life was held December 21, at All Saints’ Episcopal Church, Rehoboth Beach. Memorial donations may be directed to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, Delaware 19963, delawarehospice.org/donate; or All Saints’ Church, 18 Olive Ave., Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971, allsaintsandstgeorges.org/welcome/online-giving.html. ▼

Elton “E.J.” Jackson Killmon Jr.

Elton “E.J.” Jackson Killmon Jr., 73, rounded third and slid safely into home on December 7, 2024. Surrounded by his loving family in Lewes, Delaware, E.J. completed a life filled with love and adventure

E.J. graduated from Pocomoke (Maryland) High School in 1969 and attended St. Mary’s College of Maryland. He spent 43 years with the Maryland Division of Parole & Probation, earning a reputation for fairness, humor, and compassion. Upon his retirement in 2017, he was honored for his exemplary service and dedication to giving others second chances.

In 1982, E.J. married Christine O. Killmon, and together they raised five children in Salisbury, Maryland. Their home was filled with laughter, adventure, and countless rescue dogs. After retirement, E.J. and Christine moved to Lewes, Delaware, where he shared his passions with friends and family, continuing to inspire with his endless curiosity and “Hall of Fame” humor.

A lifelong Orioles fan, E.J. rooted for his team with the same loyalty he gave to his family, friends, and community. He believed in living with intention and heart, reminding everyone he met of their own unique value. As Maya Angelou once said, “People will never forget how you made them feel.” E.J. made everyone feel like part of his team, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and inspiration.

E.J. is survived by his wife of 42 years, Christine, their five children— Meredith J. Paulsen (Brian), Jonathan Killmon (Chrissy), Megan Bounds, Michael “Mike” Killmon, and David Killmon (Jim Caso)—and three grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sister, Jacquelyn Lambro, and numerous extended family. His beloved dog Ellie will miss him deeply.

E.J. was predeceased by his parents, Mary and Elton “Jack” Jackson Killmon Sr.; in-laws, Charles and Roma O’Donnell; and his rescue dogs, including Tiny, Sam, and Rowdy.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on December 21, 2024, at St. Jude the Apostle Catholic Church, Lewes. Memorial donations may be made to Accent Care Hospice. ▼

Sheila A. Chlanda

Sheila A. Chlanda of Lewes passed away peacefully at home Monday, December 16, 2024. Born in New York City, New York, March 12, 1936, she was the beloved daughter of Muriel Connolly and Joseph Chlanda.

Sheila spent most of her life in Manhattan, where she forged a remarkable career in the music industry. In 1966, she began her journey at Columbia Records as a secretary. Her exceptional talent, dedication, and charisma quickly earned her a promotion to record promoter, where she worked closely with radio stations nationwide to bring the music of iconic artists to audiences across the country. Sheila’s success was reflected in the Gold and Platinum records that adorned her home, a testament to her instrumental role in the careers of countless artists. She retired in 1991 as the national director of promotions for Sony Records. In the same year she joined Columbia Records, Sheila met the love of her life, Phyllis Zwarych. Together, they shared 58 beautiful years of love, adventure, and unwavering devotion. Sheila and Phyllis created cherished memories in their many homes, including the one in Lewes,

Amy Lynne Shupard

Aalways surrounding themselves with family, friends, and the joys of life.

Sheila embraced her time at the beach, where she delighted in surf-fishing, walking along the shore, and soaking in the beauty of nature. A lifelong learner and enthusiast, she enjoyed traveling, playing pinochle, reading, and watching football and tennis. Sheila was an active member of Cape Henlopen Senior Center in Rehoboth Beach and Lewes Senior Activity Center, forming meaningful connections within her community.

Sheila is survived by her devoted partner, Phyllis Zwarych, of Lewes; her brother, Kimberly Chlanda, and his daughter Zoe, of Deer Park, New York; and many extended family. She was predeceased by her parents and her sister, Judith Schopmeier.

Sheila’s warmth, kindness, and radiant smile will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and colleagues. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Sheila wished that any memorial donations be made in her name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 50, Memphis, Tennessee 381019929. ▼

my Lynne Shupard passed away January 18, 2025. Born on September 14, 1976, Amy’s warm spirit and infectious smile became a beacon of light for her family, friends, and community.

A resident of Dewey Beach, Delaware, Amy graduated from Cape Henlopen High School in 1994. She went on to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees in communications from the University of Delaware, graduating at the top of her class. Following her passion for education, she became a communications professor for the University of Delaware, where she adored her students and inspired countless minds over a long and accomplished career.

Beyond academia, Amy’s vibrant personality touched many people through her work at Eden and Blue Moon Restaurants, where she cherished her regulars and made everyone feel at home. She also had a fulfilling and successful career as a realtor with Dave McCarthy and Associates in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.

A selfless and compassionate individual, Amy always lent a helping hand to anyone in need. She volunteered tirelessly, running several anonymous support groups and embodying

Wyndell Keith James

Wyndell Keith James, 61, of Seaford, Delaware, passed away December 31, 2024. Wyndell was born on July 22, 1963, in Calhoun, Georgia, to Walter and Joyce James, who predeceased him.

A 1981 graduate of Calhoun High School, Wyndell went on to study culinary arts in Georgia. Though he began his career with a love for cooking, Wyndell later became a licensed optician, working in that profession for many years.

Wyndell married Michael Roob in October 2020, a love that brought him great joy and companionship. He was an avid enthusiast of model building, gardening, fishing, and camping. His creative spirit, love for the outdoors, and culinary talents touched the lives of everyone he met.

Wyndell is survived by his devoted husband, Michael Roob; his son, Josh, and daughter, Jessica; three brothers; one sister; and his grandchildren in Georgia. His memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved him.

Memorial donations may be made in Wyndell’s memory to CAMP Rehoboth, 37 Rehoboth Avenue, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware 19971. ▼

the very essence of kindness and support.

Amy was a gifted musician with a deep love for the arts. She shared her beautiful voice with her college a cappella group, The Golden Blues, and contributed her talents to the college newspaper, The Review

Amy cherished her community in Dewey Beach, embracing outdoor activities, music, and treasured moments at the beach. She valued time spent with her family, especially her nieces and nephews, and her beloved dogs.

Amy is lovingly remembered by her spouse of 15 years, Chris Capriotti; her father, Herb Shupard; her sister, Tammy Shupard Brandt (JB); her brothers, Malik Lopez (Jennifer) and Geoff Shupard (Nichole); many extended family; and her two beloved King Charles Spaniels, Nikki and Brodie. ▼

She was preceded in passing by her mother, Susan Francis.

A Celebration of Life was held on February 3, 2025, at Parsell Funeral Homes & Crematorium, Lewes. The family suggests that any memorial donations go to Gift of Life House, giftoflifehowieshouse.org/, or University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, vet.upenn.edu/giving. ▼

Subscribe today.

Don’t miss a thing. 11 issues of LETTERS from CAMP Rehoboth by first class mail.

PARTNER’S NAME ( IF APPLICABLE) STREET MAILING ADDRESS CITY, STATE, ZIP

CAMP Rehoboth Volunteer Opportunities

ACCESSIBILITY

Hope Vella

ADVOCACY TEAM

Daniel Bruner

David Garrett

Leslie Ledogar

Sherri McGee

ARTS TEAM

Logan Farro

Jane Knaus

Lois Powell

Leslie Sinclair

Patricia Stiles

Debbie Woods

CAMP ADMIN

Sherri McGee

CAMP CHORUS

LEADERSHIP COMMITTEE

Bill Fuchs

Karen Gantz

Send your check for $50 to CAMP Rehoboth, 37 Baltimore Ave., Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. If you prefer to use your Visa, MasterCard or American Express call 302-227-5620. YOUR NAME

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES MEETING

Looking to learn more about what it means to volunteer for CAMP Rehoboth? Stay tuned to the 2025 Volunteer Opportunities Meeting schedule. The first meeting is slated for mid-February with a focus on volunteer needs at Women’s+ FEST.

WOMEN’S+ FEST 2025

Join in the fun, entertainment, sports, and tradition by volunteering at the CAMP Rehoboth Women’s+ FEST! With over 20 events over four days, many people are needed to make this a success.

CROP: CAMP REHOBOTH

OUTREACH PROGRAM

The CAMP Rehoboth Outreach Program (CROP) works constantly to cultivate community and strengthen relationships and the connections between us all. Check the site for monthly volunteer opportunities..

Sign up at camprehoboth.org/volunteers.

Your volunteer efforts benefit you and others.

— PLEASE VISIT camprehoboth.org/volunteers to register as a volunteer and to sign up for available opportunities.

thank you

Carolyn Laurenzo

Judy Olsen

Gloria Richards

Dave Scuccimarra

Travis Stevens

CAMP DATABASE

Sondra Arkin

CAMP FACILITIES

Carol Brice

Lisa Evans

Eric Korpon

CAMP LIBRARY

Glenn Lash

CAMPCIERGES

Joe Benshetler

Barbara Breault

Ken Currier

Adam Emel-Firestone

Will Freshwater

Jim Mease

Kim Nelson

Pamela Rule

Mitchell Shahade

Patricia Stiles

Russell Stiles

Joe Vescio

CAMPSAFE HIV TESTING AND COUNSELING

Dick Hospital

E.J. Kenyon

Joe Vescio

CAMPSHOTS PHOTO VOLUNTEERS

G Michael Beigay

Tony Burns

DEVELOPMENT TEAM

Jane Blue

Pat Catanzariti

Wes Combs

Mike DeFlavia

Will Freshwater

Amanda Mahony

Albanese

GAY MEN’S CHORUS OF WASHINGTON— POSTCARDS CABARET

G Michael Beigay

Deb Bricker

Joanne Caputo

Bruce Clayton

Adam Emel-Firestone

Max Fleishman

Marce McCollum-Martin

Kevin Pelland

Larry Rosen

Kathy Solano

LETTERS DISTRIBUTION TEAM

Glenn Lash

Jim Mease

LETTERS MAILING TEAM

Nancy Hewish

LETTERS PROOFING

Barb Ralph

to all the CAMP Rehoboth Community Center Volunteers for the period: December 6, 2024-January 24, 2025

RAINBOW THUMB CLUB

Chris Bowers

Carol Brice

Linda DeFeo

Patty DiModugno

THIS MONTH IN QUEER HISTORY

Beth Shockley

TOY & CLOTHING DRIVE

Desiree Aurillo

Kathy Board

Paul Christensen

Karen DeSantis

Jeff Donovan

Kate Frampton

Jackie Maddalena

Marce McCollum-Martin

Timothy Miller

Dennis Morgan

Kevin Pelland

Barbara Ralph

Holden Umanzor

Julio Umanzor

Joe Vescio

Lee Whitehead

VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

Madelyn Jablon

Marce McCollum-Martin

Jim Mease

Kim Nelson

Rina Pellegrini

John Michael Sophos

Joe Vescio

WARM WINTER SOCIAL

Desiree Aurillo

AD INDEX

SANDPIPER VILLAGERehoboth. 2BR/2BA 3rdfloor condo is an end unit. 1,060sf Chesapeake model. 4.5 miles to Rehoboth or Lewes beaches. Near bike trail. $340,000 (2072724)

WHISPERING PINES - Lewes. 2011 3BR/2BA 14’x70’ singlewide. Vaulted ceilings. Spacious kitchen. Shed. Community pool. 4 miles to beach. $85,000 (2077124) Lot Rent $850/mt.

CAMELOT MEADOWS - Rehoboth. 1979 3BR/1.5BA w/sunroom. Fenced yard. Deck w/retractable awning. Community pool. 4 miles to beach. $99,900 (2074074) Lot Rent $850/mt.

ANGOLA BEACH - Lewes. 1983 1,100sf 3BR/2BA fully remodeled in 2023. Furn. Community pools, marina. 10 miles to beach. $184,500 (2073060) Lot Rent $780/mt. includes water & sewer.

4 SEASONS AT BELLE TERRE - Lewes. ”Like New” 2023-built 4BR/3.5BA home w/full finished basement is approx. 3,800sf. Premium lot. Community pool & 7 miles to bch. $895,000 (2075518)

WHISPERING PINES - Lewes. Remodeled 1974 3BR/2BA doublewide is 1,368sf w/the addition. Big shed. Community pool. 4 miles to beach. $114,900 (2073284) Lot Rent $728/mt.

CAMELOT MEADOWS - Rehoboth. 1972 3BR/2BA is 1,288 sq. ft. Fully fenced side yard. Main bedroom is en Suite. Community pool. 4 miles to beach. $129,000 (2071060) Lot Rent $1,080/mt.

ANGOLA BEACH -Lewes. Remodeled 1977 2BR/2BA w/sunroom. Fenced yard. Community pools, marina. 10 miles to beach. $128,000 (2073722) Lot Rent $686/mt. includes water & sewer.

A SPEN MEADOWSRehoboth. 1985 3BR/2BA. 1,284sf. Nicely updated! Big screened porch. 2 sheds. Close to community pool. 4 miles to beach. $184,000 (2077028) Lot Rent $907/mt.

SEA AIR -Rehoboth. 2013 RV w/main BR & 2 sleep sofas (sleeps 6). Nice! Big LV. Community pool & 3 miles to beach. $36,000 (2073114) Seasonal 4/15-11/15. Lot Rent $5,870

CAMELOT MEADOWS - Rehoboth. 1976 2BR/2BA home was fully remodeled inside & out in 2011! Community pool. 4 miles to beach. $120,000 (2074132) Lot Rent $1,080/mt.

SILVER VIEW FARMRehoboth. 2016 3BR/2BA is 1,624 sq. ft. w/family room addition. Split bedroom plan. Shed. Community pool. 3 miles to beach. $314,900 (2071230) Lot Rent $725/mt.

CAMELOT MEADOWS - Rehoboth. 1977 3BR/2BA. New LVP flooring, furnace, electric panel. 2 sheds. Fence. Community pool. 4 miles to beach. $109,000 (2077158) Lot Rent $1,000/mt.

w/wood FP. Fenced yard. Shed. Community pool. 4 miles to beach. $219,000 (20774942) Lot Rent $868/mt.

COLONIAL EAST - Rehoboth Beach. Remodeled 1981 2BR/2BA. Shed. Furnished. Community pool. 4 miles to Rehoboth/Lewes beaches. $145,000 (2076236) Lot Rent $566/mt.