Winter 2024
LoveLivingHere
TM
e-magazine for all things coastal Delaware
www.delawareretiree.com
LoveLivingHere
TM
from the Delaware Retiree Advisor
Len Hayduchok
Fiduciary, CFP ®, Certified Life Coach
Len Hayduchok Delaware Retiree Advisor Nanine Gallo Marketing Director Makopano Mutloatse Editor Bridget Fitzpatrick Resident Journalist
What a pleasure to do life TOGETHER, and do it WELL! Connecting in a meaningful way is one of the most fulfilling components to a rich life. We are committed to help you engage more in our coastal communities as we LOVE LIVING HERE™ together.
Mary Jo Tarallo Resident Journalist Nina Hall Graphic Designer
The Delaware Retiree Connection™ www.DelawareRetiree.com www.facebook/DelawareRetiree This email is published quarterly. Please feel free to email us with questions and thoughts, connect@delawareretiree.com To advertise, please email us at marketing@delawareretiree.com Reproduction of this magazine in whole or in part is prohibited without prior written permission from The Delaware Retiree Connection™.
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Love Living in Southern DE
Welcome Home! The Delaware Retiree ConnectionTM is here to inform, inspire, and infuse your journey with life. As you enjoy your retirement in our coastal communities, we are here to help you to do more, enjoy more, and LOVE LIVING HERE TM! We get to partner with amazing 55 and better’s, helping YOU make the most of this opportune time, learning to flourish as individuals, as well as family and community members. Our goal is to give you fun tips and expert guidance to maximize exploring the many avenues of life you’ve waited years to traverse.
In This Issue Retirement Issues
4 ...............A Financial Resolution 8 ...The Importance of Resilience Health & Fitness
7 ...........................Walk with Ease
10 ........................Winter Exercise
Seasonal
12....................Winter Getaway 16 .............Promises, Promises
24 ...............Upcoming Events Arts & Community
14.........Seaford Historical Soc. 18 ...................Best Pizza Spots 22 ........OLLI’s Spring Semester
Read our e-magazine in a traditional way, flipping through each page to see what’s next OR click on the article title you like to go straight there (with clickable links in many of our articles). Enjoy! LOVE LIVING HERETM Winter 2024 3
Retirement Issues
A Financial New Year’s Resolution that Empowers Retirees By Len Hayduchok, Fiduciary, Certified Financial Planner ®
This is not what it may seem. It’s not a prohibition on spending money or what to cut back on. It’s not about budgeting and accounting for every dollar going forward. And it’s not about reassessing projections or getting financial documents in order. As helpful as these strategies are, this financial new year’s resolution is about intentionally having your money align with whatever in life is most important to you, what provides you both enjoyment and fulfillment.
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What would make life amazing? Not just
Accomplishments is a category that can
fun or socially busy, but truly amazing.
take many forms, depending on the
Of course, every retiree is different. But
retiree’s specific interests, beliefs and
regardless of one’s financial situation and stage in life, there are three life categories
values. They can include acquiring skills, achieving noteworthy goals, securing
that we all plan, dream and hope about.
material acquisitions or building net worth.
These are personal experiences and
Retirees should first consider what
relationships, our accomplishments, and our impact. It’s helpful to understand our desires in each of these areas and establish specific action steps to pursue them for a more flourishing life. We can dedicate time to plan and live them, using different financial strategies for each category. The category of experiences and relationships is about the things we love to do and those we value. The best combination is doing the things we love most with those whom we love to be around. Once retirees reflect on what experiences and relationships are most meaningful and fulfilling, then they can consider how finances could be shifted to empower these goals. Diving into these experiences and relationships may require more spending, and it’s beneficial to have an income plan that generates enough cash flow to pay for them. This may require income-producing assets as part of a portfolio, which could include dividend-paying stocks, fixed-income instruments and lifetime income annuities.
accomplishments mean the most to them. The next step is to consider what finances are needed. There are many strategies for building wealth, but particularly in the current investment environment, it is vital to make sure the risk being taken is worth it. Traditional investing strategies that provided historic diversification and strong returns have been highly disappointing in the last few years. The current highinterest-rate environment has made financial choices like CDs and annuities relatively more attractive compared to riskier investments in the stock market. The final category, impact, means making a difference in the world. Many retirees have the freedom and flexibility to pursue their volunteering interests. This can increase the satisfaction and meaning they feel in life. Impact can be made through effective use of time and money. Impact can also be made through gifts to individuals and causes while the donor is alive or after they pass away. If assets are limited, it may (continued to page 6)
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Retirement Issues
A Financial New Year’s Resolution (continued) (continued from page 5) be wise to delay such giving until after it is certain the funds will not be required to meet financial obligations. Alternatively, if assets are plentiful, making an impact during one’s lifetime can provide great enjoyment and fulfillment. Savvy financial tax strategies could allow individuals to make a larger impact with fewer financial resources. This new year’s resolution challenge is to consider what would make retirement – or any stage in life – as amazing as it can be. Using the three categories can help everyone better understand and pursue their life goals, hopes and dreams. This understanding can guide decisions on spending, investing and transferring wealth. With many things in life, it is possible to see goals to completion solely through personal efforts, but sometimes professional assistance can provide better results. In
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this case, the services of a qualified professional like a Certified Financial PlannerTM practitioner for financial advice or a life coach, to facilitate personal reflection and growth are advisable.
For more free, helpful resources, Len offers both his websites for public access: www.DedicatedFinancialServices.com or www.MaxAMAZING.com. As well as his show “MaxAMAZING™ Your Retirement,” Sundays at noon on ABC 47. AUTHOR BIO: Len Hayduchok is a Retiree Advisor, with over 30 years’ experience. As a fiduciary, Certified Financial Planner™ and Certified Life Coach, he has advised many individuals and families regarding both Financial and Retirement Planning. Len’s Amazon International Best Seller, MaxAMAZING™ Your Retirement, combines both his financial and life coaching expertise into free resources to help guide retirees into a more enjoyable and fulfilling season of life. Len is the founder of The Delaware Retiree Connection, and the CEO and owner of Dedicated Financial Services. Investment Advisory services offered through SGL Financial, LLC.
1 n io . 27 s s b Se Fe 2: g n .9 in r by r o r si Sp iste es Ap S g y Re ring r b e t p S gis Re
Walk with Ease
Say Yes to Your Health! Taking part in the Walk With Ease (WWE) evidence-based fitness program helps reduce your pain and improve your overall health. Created by the experts at the Arthritis Foundation, this introductory level program provides techniques to begin and maintain a successful walking program. Program topics will include exercising safely and comfortably, improving flexibility and building strength and reducing pain.
The 6-week program is available in two formats: Weekly email series, or 45-minute, live weekly group educational sessions via Zoom, Tuesdays, 12 p.m.
Both formats include: Walk With Ease Participant Guidebook (available in English or Spanish) Weekly support via email and/or phone, resources and videos Self-guided walking sessions (a minimum of three days per week for at least 10-40 minutes per day is recommended) Certificate of completion (post-program survey must be completed to receive a certificate)
PROGRAM INFORMATION SPRING SESSION 1: March 5 - April 9, 2024 SESSION 1 REGISTRATION DEADLINE: February 27, 2024 SPRING SESSION 2: April 16 - May 21, 2024 SESSION 2 REGISTRATION DEADLINE: April 9, 2024
Cost: $20 Financial scholarships are available. Please indicate your eligibility during registration. Register at: http://www.udel.edu/0011379 or take a picture of the QR Code with your phone.
Adults of any age and physical fitness level* can participate! *If you can be on your feet for 10 minutes without increased pain, you can have success with Walk With Ease. For more information, contact Nancy Mears, mears@udel.edu or 302-856-7303. This information is brought to you by the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension, a service of the UD College of Agriculture and Natural Resources — a land-grant institution. This institution is an equal opportunity provider. If you have special needs that need to be accommodated, please contact the office two weeks prior to the event. TM LOVE LIVING HERE
This material was funded by USDA's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program - SNAP.
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Retirement Issues
The Importance of Resilience By Stacey Himler, Owner of Caring Transitions, Southern DE
So, how is your comeback going? The truth is, most of us are in the middle of a comeback, right now. We’re coming back from a broken heart or a broken leg. We’re coming back from a bad investment, a bad accident, a bad childhood, a bad relationship or a bad experience. We’re coming back from a 48-hour case of the flu or a year-long battle with cancer. We’re coming back from the loss of a job or the loss of a friend. We are all in the ring battling life’s neverending challenges, and everyone has the choice to mount a comeback or accept a setback. How successful we are in bouncing back has a cumulative effect on how quickly we age, how long we maintain our independence and, ultimately, the overall quality of our lives moving forward. If you want to accept the impact of your most recent setback that is your right but understand that life will continue to knock us down. There’ll be another setback and then
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another and each one will extract an active toll on the overall quality of your life. At some point we all have to surrender but for the vast majority of us that time is not now, not yet. Life requires resilience. More than a popular buzzword, resilience is the psychological strength to cope with stress and hardship. It’s critically important as we age because it makes us better able to rebuild our lives after setbacks of any kind. The good news is that we all have the ability to develop resilience. The bad news is that we have to earn it by overcoming challenges. The road to resilience is paved with hardship. At 67, Paula Franetti knows that well. In 2016, she was blindsided by an oncoming car as she was driving. The horrific accident nearly crippled her for life. Remarkably she survived and recovered. It took five surgeries and multiple procedures, months in a wheelchair, and a lot of hard physical and mental work, along with support from family, friends and
the medical community. But mostly it took the commitment to herself. The doctors put Paula’s body back together, but they offered no guarantees. Paula did the rest, returning to competing on a masters basketball team at the National Senior Games. Today she uses the lessons she learned to help others recover, through her business, ReboundPlanner.com. “I’ve been through probably the most catastrophic thing I’ve ever experienced in my life, and it can’t get any worse than that,” Franetti said. “I want to live life to its very fullest from here on out. I don’t know how many more years it’s going to be, but I have a deeper appreciation for who I am and what I’ve been able to achieve and how meaningful life is now.”
Darryl Perry is a former Florida Gators football player that suffered a near death experience. His heart went into cardiac arrest as he slept, his brain was deprived of oxygen and after life-saving measures, Perry went into a coma. Against all odds and the expectations of his doctors, weeks later Perry woke up...but to a different way of life than he had known. He had to learn to walk again, talk again and navigate life in a different way. His resilient, determined spirit and faith carried him forward. “It’s very important for anyone who is facing a life-changing event to stay positive,” said Perry. “I don’t care what’s going on, you have to find the positive in it.” If you want to continue living an active, engaged life and want to keep having adventures and spending time with those you love—doing what you love—resilience is critical. Unfortunately, having resilience doesn’t mean you’ll experience less distress, grief, or anxiety. It just means that you have the healthy coping skills that will allow you to not just bounce back but to emerge stronger than ever. For inspiration for your own comeback journey, enjoy these stories of ”Surviving and Thriving” from our friends at Growing Bolder. LOVE LIVING HERETM Winter 2024 9
Health & Fitness
Winter Exercise By Mary Jo Tarallo
gram called Sit and Get Fit for those who might really have mobility issues.
W
e’ve all probably sung or hummed along to the holiday tune “Let it Snow” that starts off with these lyrics: “The weather outside is frightful but the fire is so delightful….” It occurred to me that this might not be the best message to send to people who have probably been overeating and overindulging during the holidays and need to get up and move instead of sitting in front of a fire, no matter how delightful it sounds. Options for exercise in the winter are plentiful even if you don’t consider yourself an athletic person. For starters, local senior centers offer a plethora of choices including ballroom dancing, La Blast, Zumba, strength and balance classes, fitness rooms and even a pro-
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While not as extensive as 24 Fitness or Midway Fitness, the Cape Henlopen Senior Center’s (CHSC) has a fitness room that has enough upper and lower body machines to provide a good work out plus a wide range of activity programs to serve a variety of needs and tastes. The same room houses two pool tables, so it is fun to watch pool enthusiasts while trekking on the treadmill. Learning to play pool could even be a good “cool down” activity after a workout. The CHSC and Lewes Activity Senior Center (LASC) both offer LaBlast, Line Dancing, Yoga
and a few other options. Some programs are similar at both locations, while others vary. For example, the CHSC has ballroom dancing while the LASC does not. However, LASC has a Balance and Strength program that is not offered at the CHSC. Aside from the nominal annual membership fee ($30 at CHSC and $35 at LASC) classes cost between $5-7 per session. Some programs are free with membership. Joining a regular fitness facility is also an option. Membership at Midway Fitness is free for those who have the AARP Medicare Advantage. Most health insurance programs have a fitness facility tie-in, but distant locations can be an issue. The Easy Striders group is also an ideal option for those who want to get some exercise and socialize with others in the community. Headed by activity enthusiast Peter Gisler, the group meets every other Sunday afternoon throughout the fall, winter, and spring at around 1 pm to walk through various state parks in the area. Gisler often packs in a social gathering after each “hike” at a “local watering hole” like the Wheelhouse. More like walking tours than hikes, most outings are in the Rehoboth/Lewes general area. Many members also participate in the
low key weekly hikes of the Senior Olympics programs. And lest we forget the fastest growing sport in the U.S. today, the Dave Marshall Tennis and Fitness club offers various levels of Pickleball classes and clinics all year long. The facility is located off Plantations Road in Lewes. Since it’s true that any form of exercise is better than none at all, let’s get out there (especially in these colder months where all we want to do is sit by that inviting fire). Even if it’s just the “old fashioned” option of bundling up and walking around the block, let’s grab a buddy (or not) and get moving! Need a great local exercise class? Check out this list of classes at local libraries and activity centers.
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Seasonal
Winter Getaways
W
By Mary Jo Tarallo
ho doesn’t have an itch to get away from the Mid-Atlantic’s steel grey look and nippy feel of winter cold for warm temperatures, pleasant breezes, puffy white clouds in azure blue skies. And, if you haven’t already planned on something, the possibilities are endless. Is a land tour your preference or perhaps a water voyage: a river boat, a modest sailing ship or a large cruise ship with several thousand passengers. Each has pros and cons. And what about insurance? Regardless of your travel choice, Charlie Leocha, president of the consumer advocacy group Travelers United, has some advice. “Always read the fine print of any contract you sign. It will let you know when different benefits kick in,” he says. “Better yet, if it is important, ask your lawyer to take a quick look. If friends of yours had to use the insurance, make sure to ask them their experience.” The bottom line. Do your homework, says Leocha.
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Let’s start with cruises! An obvious benefit of being on a cruise is that regardless of vessel size, there is no need to pack and unpack every couple of days. The ship is your hotel and your activity/entertainment center. Cruise Critic does a good job of highlighting the pros and cons of small ships vs. large ones. Size matters. For example, larger ships offer more restaurants for dining, if that is a priority, not to mention bars and lounges. Smaller ocean cruising ships house a modest array of eateries, but compact river boats use the same dining area for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Entertainment varies considerably between larger ships and smaller ones. Larger ships boast large scale Broadway reviews, theater productions, magic acts, and more. Smaller ships offer a more limited selection of entertainment. River cruises include evening entertainment, but they focus more on presenting a single musician who likely sings and plays the keyboard. Karaoke is a popular passengerparticipation pastime. Regardless of ship size, most cruises provide opportunities for excursions at various ports. Smaller ships, including river boats, tend to place more emphasis on the history and culture of places visited simply because they don’t offer the plethora of amenities found on a larger ship. The excursions are more the key focus rather than the vessels themselves. A word of caution though, some excursions can be quite rigorous so it is best to read the descriptions carefully to make sure you can handle the level of activity. Larger cruise ships can seem like a city on the sea. January 2024 marks the debut of the world ‘s largest ship – Royal Caribbean’s “Icon of the Seas” which, in 2024, surpasses in size Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas. At full capacity, Icon of the Seas holds 7,200 guests, sports 20 decks and a cadre of “neighborhoods” called Aqua Dome, Thrill Island, Chill Island, Surfside
and The Hideaway. That might seem a bit overwhelming and more geared to younger families. Considering cost, the basic daily toll for a vacation on a large ship is typically less than for a smaller one, and there are typically packages of different types available (all-inclusive beverage or “play it day by day” etc.). Looking for an itinerary for seniors, whether it’s adventure seekers 55 and over who are quick to hop off the boat for land excursions and water play, or those facing disability/ mobility issues, there are a lot of great websites to search. Locally Accent on Travel is one of those gems to help with great planning. We’ll be writing soon on “Land Packages” to scratch your Winter-Getaway itch. So SUBSCRIBE to be kept in the loop with our latest articles.
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Arts & Community
Georgetown Historical Society
T
By Bridget FitzPatrick
he Georgetown Historical Society is an all-volunteer organization that quite literally maintains its own village. Approximately 180 volunteers provide services to “members” across Lewes. The museum has an extensive, unique collection of memorabilia and antiques that reflect Georgetown’s growth and culture since its establishment in the midseventeenth century. Georgetown became the county seat of Sussex by decree of Delaware’s governor in 1791 to establish a central location. The museum takes visitors on a fascinating tour of the village, located on South Bedford Street (State Road 431). The buildings, which have all been gifted to the historical society are a reminder of Georgetown’s
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rural, agricultural roots, as well as its growth when it became an important railroad depot. All of the gifted buildings have been moved from other locations such as local farms or businesses, then meticulously restored by society members and other volunteers. There are two barns, including the Barrel Barn, a popular wedding venue. Also on the property is The Lynch Building, often rented for meetings and dinners, and two Pennsylvania Railroad Stations from Selbysville and Frankford. The Service Station complete with Gas Pump was restored in 2001. There is a renovated blacksmith shop originally from nearby Harbeson. There’s also a renovated old service station
complete with its gas pump that was restored in 2001 and evokes our childhood memories, as does the classic dairy delivery truck nearby. But the highlights of the historical society’s “village” are its three unique museums. The Delaware Telephone Museum presents a delightful throwback to our present modes of laptop and cellular communication. The Sanger Western Auto Museum replica and memorabilia were donated by Mr. Sanger, who once was synonymous with auto dealerships throughout lower Delaware – before “big box” dealerships came along. Finally, there is a fan favorite: the Jim Boyer Model Train Museum. Mr. Boyer was legendary in Georgetown for setting up an enormous vintage train display every holiday season, then opening up his home to the public to enjoy. As the historical society president Jim Bowden explains it, everyone knew he had a large collection, but no one imagined it was so massive – so much so that the
society had to add to their existing space to accommodate the largess of his display, as well as his collection. He estimates there are 277 engines, and 1,700 rail cars, many of which are still in their original boxes. They now line an entire wall in the museum. An added bonus to visiting the Georgetown Historical Society and its museums is that admission is free, and docents are happy to guide a tour. The museums are open every day except Sunday, and hours can vary since it is entirely run by volunteers. Visit their website or call (302) 855-9660. Tours of the historic courthouse are also available. READ MORE: Lewes Historical Society Seaford Historical Society Milton Historical Society
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Seasonal
Promises, Promises, New Years Promises
D
By Mary Jo Tarallo
o you make an annual New Year’s resolution and never see it through? Whether the goal is to lose weight, exercise more, drinking less or start a new hobby, there is a whole psychology as to why people can’t fulfill their resolution. While many goals spark hope and enthusiasm, the reality is that most New Year’s resolutions are abandoned within a few months. According to an October 2023 Forbes Health/OnePoll survey, 61.7 percent of the respondents said they felt pressured to set a New Year’s resolution. Many respondents said they plan to set multiple goals, with 65.5 percent saying they planned to make three or more resolutions for 2024. Reasons why vary. According to Very Well Mind.com, we may have 3 particular prob-
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lems: 1) we may be thinking too big, 2) we may not be asking why we think we need a change, or 3) we may not be ready to make a change. According to licensed clinical psychologist Terri Bly, successful resolutions require a process. It includes: k Precontemplation: starting to
become aware that there may be something to change; k Contemplation: Thinking about making a change; k Preparation: Starting to put a plan together to make a change; k Action: Making the change, and k Maintenance: Determining how to maintain the change. Tall order! Lewes resident and life coach Pat Malandra has a few thoughts on the subject. “Of the main reasons we don’t
keep our promises to ourselves is that we don’t feel the same accountability to ourselves that we do to others.” Malandra has a workshop called Promises, Promises that addresses the issue. She defers to a December 2022 article in Time magazine called “Sick of Failing at Your New Year’s Resolutions? There is a Better Way”. The article points out that the NEW
New Year’s resolutions tend to be the resolutions from the previous year, and the year before that, and….you get the picture. The article goes on to say that only 8% of people stick with their resolutions the entire year. According to the article, “Given this less than stellar track record, it is worth asking, what would we do if we were serious? What would we do differently if we really did want to stick to our resolutions for more than a few weeks?” Based on a review of over 100 studies, many present-day psychologists cite “situation change” as the best strategy for exerting self-control. The theory is this: rather than exposing one to temptations and hoping to possess the willpower to resist, it is better to avoid confronting them in the first place.
The Time’s article goes on to note that it is important to remember that people around us and the groups we belong to have substantial influence on behavior— influence that can be leveraged to help achieve goals. Interestingly, writing more may be another saving grace when it comes to fulfilling resolutions. The authors cited their own experience - leveraging the power of groups and writing, by joining a writing group where monthly meetings are held. “Groups help people achieve their goals by setting social norms and creating a sense of accountability,” they say. The Rehoboth Beach Writers Guild does just that with its bi-monthly meetings and numerous “free writes”. All things considered, it is not surprising that the organization has about 500 members who take advantage of the Guild’s benefits. It might be worth a look, as a group time to move forward through tracking and reflection on your resolutions (BONUS: and maybe channel some of those creative juices!). LOVE LIVING HERETM Winter 2024 17
Arts & Community
That’s Amore! Looking at Some of the Area’s Best Pizza Spots By Bridget FitzPatrick
A suprisingly passionate subject for locals, the best local pizza spots can spark some pretty heated debates! This second article on the topic is a chance to feature some spots we missed in round one. So let’s get started with two pizza establishments that hail from my pre-DE roots. Well-known Grotto Pizza originally hails from Northeast PA. More than 50 years ago, founder Dominick Pulieri brought his pizza making talent from Joe’s Restaurant in Harvey’s Lake to Rehoboth Beach (the original Joe’s is now a Grotto Pizza). Known for their (some think) unorthodox signature of putting the sauce on top of the cheese, you can’t argue with success. They have 23 locations. Another location with Old Forge, PA ancestry is Casa DiLeo in Rehoboth Beach. In fact, on its menu is the specialty Old Forge pizza, which is pretty good. Conveniently located near the entrance to Rehoboth, it does have decent parking.
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In downtown Rehoboth Beach, there are more options that are highly rated. Dalmata, an Italian gem, takes pride in its rustic vibe. Plus, it’s very dog friendly. Their pizza dough and sauce are made in house daily, and they serve thin crust from a wood oven. It is proudly family-owned, but beware if you are taking your whole family there because they are pricey. Nearby is Louie’s in the heart of Rehoboth Avenue. Also family owned since 1974, it is more well-known perhaps for its excellent
grinders than its pizza. No specialty pizzas are offered, but it’s a local favorite, especially in summer months because of its walkable location and decent pricing. For many years, the iconic Nicola Pizza was in Rehoboth Beach, but recently moved to a much larger newly built restaurant in Ocean Plaza on Coastal Highway in Lewes. Nicola’s is definitely a family favorite, and their famous Nic-o-BoliTM even has a registered trademark. The more spacious location is a great place to meet a large group, and the reviews love the staff and service. Every week from November through March, 20% of all dining proceeds are gift-
ed to a local nonprofit through their Dine to Donate event. One of southern Delaware’s successful establishments is Crust & Craft on Coastal Highway. With a stylish interior and loads of craft beers on its menu. Their pizza is awesome (I have to say), and their specialties are innovative, including the “Fungi,” with roasted Kennett mushrooms and other goodies. It was even featured in a recent issue of Beach Life magazine. It’s on the pricier spectrum, but you do get what you pay for. Popular Mama Maria’s in walkable Dewey Beach is a family-owned, family-friendly operation. It is open seven days a week and offers other Italian specialties besides pizza. They also offer gluten-free crust upon request. Two Meatballs Deli of Long Neck has an awesome menu, plenty of choices, and you must take home one of their outrageous homemade desserts. On Take-OutTuesday, you can get two generously sized pizzas for $22. Worth the drive. (continued to page 20)
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Arts & Community
Areas Best Spots (continued from pagePizza 19) (continued)
(continued from page 19) A go-to in either location, Touch of Italy of Lewes and Rehoboth Beach, are wellknown for all of their menu, not just their handmade pizza. While you’re there, order the calamari, and definitely sample their house made dessert. A “shoulder season” special is ½ price pasta on Wednesdays. Bring your cash to Mr. P’s Pizza on King’s Highway. Wood-fired thin crust pizza is their specialty, as well as offering all kinds of local craft beer. It’s fun to see them work the oven right in front of you. It’s a local gem, and there’s plenty of parking.
Finally, here are a few noteworthy places recommended for not having to take out a loan for dinner. r Titanic Pizza, Paynter’s Mill, Milton. Offers delivery in Milton and most of Lewes. Their very good pizza is well-priced and generous in size. r Pat’s Family Restaurant, Lewes. You’ve seen their delivery cars all over the place, so that’s saying something. If you dine in, it’s a great place to bring kids. They have 50 locations in the PA, MD, NJ (and upper DE) region and offer a rewards club. Just don’t order online. The website is not user friendly. r Pizza Villa in Midway Shopping Center doesn’t catch your eye from the highway, but inside, it’s very friendly and family owned since 1971. It’s a no fuss menu. They are closed on Sunday and Monday. If I’ve left out one of your favorites, let us know. Mangia!
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Seasonal
Upcoming Events Looking to get active and connected in the new year? There are some great local classes to take and groups to join. • Cape Henlopen Senior Center, Tai Chi, Every Friday 11:10 am - 12:10 pm $6.00 • Indian River Senior Center, LaBlast, Mondays 2:15-3:00pm • Frankford Public Library, Walking club, Fridays 10:30 And so many more! • Hooks and Needles at Frankford Public Library, Mondays at 1pm • The Yarners Group at Cape Henlopen Senior Center, Wednesday, 9 am - 11 am • In the Loop: Knitting and Crocheting Group at Lewes Public Library, Thursdays at 3pm Just to name a few... • Katie’s Book Club at Bethany Beach Books • Book Clubs at BROWSEABOUTBOOKS, Rehoboth Beach • Indian River Senior Center, Virtual Book Club • Cape Henlopen Senior Center, Book Club Click to explore the ones in your area. Whether it’s at a great local activity center (Cape Henlopen Senior Center, Lewes Senior Center, Indian River, etc.) or a local library, there are SO MANY OPTIONS all around us! LOVE LIVING HERETM Winter 2024 21
Arts & Community
OLLI ’s Spring Semester for Adult Learners By Bridget FitzPatrick
courses offered throughout the state, so if something truly sparks your interest (or need), you may have to travel to Wilmington or Dover. Here in Sussex County, there are two primary locations: Trinity Faith Education Building on New Road or Ocean View’s Community Center. New since 2021 and COVID, OLLI also offers courses online and hybrid (choice of either live or Zoom attendance). It became so popular an option that they’ve kept the format going. How it works Calling all learners! The much anticipated catalog, available in both print and online is out, and they’re chock full of courses you wouldn’t even imagine take place. For example, you can study the life of Dean Martin or Robin Williams movies. You can join a ukulele club or learn how to dance Pacific Island style. OLLI at Udel, if you’re not already familiar with it, is an educational cooperative for adult learners of all levels 50+. There are
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Students pay a membership fee of $260 for the spring semester. It may sound a little pricey, but this enables you to take as many courses as you’d like, tuition-free, and this fee also allows a “two-fer.” Your spouse or partner may also attend courses. (An annual membership is offered in the fall, which allows you to take courses in both semesters.) A certain amount of financial assistance is available with a confidential application. Note: some courses require additional fees, such as for materials, books, etc.
Priority registration begins January 4 –17, 2024. Following that, there is a drop/add and late registration between January 29 – February 16 (even though classes begin February 5. For five-week courses that begin later in the semester starting April 1, drop/add reopens March 18 – April 1. Here is the caveat Acceptance into courses is by a lottery system, not by first come, first served. Factors they consider is the prioritization of classes you set up during registration, then during the drop/add period, you can attempt to sign up for any other courses that interest you. This period has a first come first served format. OLLI boasts the benefits of membership, including travel opportunities sponsored by UD, an email and student ID and
access to research databases in their Morris Library. Additionally, there are discounts in some UD stores and at events, lectures and performances. Most impressive is the ability to audit UD classes, tuition free (subject to availability). There are over 300 courses offered this semester in multiple categories, everything from fine and performing arts to economics and history. OLLI’s new statewide director, Karen Asenavage Loptes states, “UD OLLI is one of the largest lifelong learning programs in the US, and it’s a gem in Delaware. For more information and to view the spring course catalog online, visit OLLI.UDEL.EDU,or call (302) 645-4111. Never stop learning!
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