LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth |
CAMP Connect |
by Beth Fitton |
Connect
Each time someone says to me, "Doesn't that Route One traffic make you crazy?" or "I'm just staying home until all the tourists leave!" I think to myself (and sometimes out loud), "If Rehoboth Beach was so important to you that you moved here, why do you think other people should stay away?" While our previous geography may be a bit different, the story is the same for so many of us. In order to move to Rehoboth Beach, my partner and I bought a home here, sold two homes there, resigned from jobs there and found jobs here. Now, you all know that this is the condensed version of moving to Rehoboth Beach. The process involves a great deal of stress and energy. However, for us, we had reached a point where we just didn't want to be anywhere else. It is a strange dichotomy. The longer we live here, the more we appreciate Rehoboth yet the more we take it for granted. You can say, "my partner" and no one misses a beat. You begin to feel more like you are the rule rather than the exception. A few days ago, I ordered from a catalog via the telephone. In the course of the transaction, I was asked for the name on the catalog and was that my name. I said, "No, my partner" without thinking. At the end of the conversion, the fellow taking the order asked me if he could ask a personal question. I said he could and the question was, "How long have you and your partner been together?" I told him almost 9 years and he congratulated me and said, "You're talking to family." (Obviously he paid more attention to the "my partner" than I did.) Some people say it is the "gay night life" that brought them to Rehoboth. Others say that the ocean and beaches are why they are here. I think either may play a role in the decision to come here but no matter your reason, the freedom to be yourself is what makes it "home." Connecting with other community members where you find acceptance would make six lanes of Los Angeles freeway rush hour traffic seem worth it to me. Founders' Circle The community members supporting the CAMP Rehoboth Community Center Founders' Circle now number 424 people. They have pledged $939,967.72 with $655,969.18 received. If you are not a member, you have ten months left to add your name to the Founders' Circle permanent records. You will be making an investment in our community, plus it's a great tax deduction. CAMP Rehoboth is a 501(c)(3) organization and contributions are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. As always, CAMP Rehoboth's board and staff appreciate the commitment of all who have become recent members of the Founders' Circle, upgraded your original pledge, or made your pledge payment. Keep your chin up! I predict the traffic will thin out in less than a month. Pledge Form available in PDF format HERE Beth Fitton is Development Director at CAMP Rehoboth. She may be reached by e-mail at developmentdirector@camprehoboth.com. |
LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth, Vol. 15, No. 11 August 12, 2005 |