Since Letters from CAMP Rehoboth is not a daily or even a weekly news magazine, I’m often constrained by our publication schedule when it comes to reporting on breaking news items. That being said, the work of all of us involved with Equality Delaware and the passage of the civil union bill (SB 30), has made it an exciting time for politics in the state of Delaware. Though the situation can, and probably will, change between the time I write this and the time this magazine hits the stands, right now, SB 30 has passed in the Senate. The next step will send the bill to the House where we also expect it to pass, and then on to the Governor who has promised to sign it. The law, if passed as proposed, would not take effect until January 1, 2012. The best thing any of us can do to help, is to continue to contact our state legislators and let them know that we support the passage of SB 30. If you do not know your senator or representative, there is a link on the CAMP Rehoboth or Equality Delaware website that will provide all the information you need.
Also happening as we go to press; the CAMP Rrehoboth women’s fest gets underway. Starting Thursday, April 8 and running through Sunday April 10, Women’s FEST is one of the biggest women’s events of the year and includes: concerts, theater, workshops (called FEMinars), parties, dinner and drink discounts at many of the finest area restaurants, and much more. On behalf of CAMP Rehoboth, a word of thanks to all the participants in Women’s FEST 2011, especially the many volunteers and sponsors who make it all possible. The event wouldn’t happen without the hard work of our dedicated FEST Committee; watch for them, they’ll be wearing yellow Women’s FEST t-shirts all weekend long.
Volunteers are crucial to the work of CAMP Rehoboth, and over the past year, our greatly expanded Volunteer Development Committee (VDC) under the guidance of Claire Ippoliti has been working to make the CAMP Rehoboth volunteer experience better for everyone. On Sunday, April 17, from 3-5, the VDC is inviting all our volunteers to a volunteer appreciation party at CAMP Rehoboth. Also, in the works, a brand new and very exciting volunteer orientation program designed to give all volunteers the information they need to be knowledgeable about the work of CAMP Rehoboth.
Looking ahead to summer 2011; both Love and Sundance will return to the line-up of CAMP Rehoboth events—Sundance for the 24th time, and Love for the 17th. Though there was no question of us doing Sundance (it’s our biggest fundraiser of the year), there was a good deal of debate about Love this year. In the end the decision was made to continue to produce it, and I’m excited to say that it will be returning to its roots as an all dance weekend. In fact, it will be the biggest dance weekend of the summer. Both Saturday and Sunday of July 4th weekend will be major dance parties, plus we’re working on plans to add a Lady Love event to the lineup. Watch for details, and if you love Love, make sure to come out and dance. Times being what they are, a lot of events have not survived, and I would hate to see us give up on Love! Sounds tragic, doesn’t it? The Love 2011 Committee is looking for new volunteers and committee members; to get involved contact Murray or me at CAMP Rehoboth.
On Saturday, April 2, the family and friends of Al Bulliner celebrated his life at the CAMP Rehoboth Community Center. Al was a long-time friend and supporter of CAMP Rehoboth and served on our Development Advisory Board. His steady and wise voice of reason will be greatly missed.