REHOBOTH BEACH, Del.- A crowded day along the shore in Delaware, despite recommendations to social distance. Delaware recently extended its State of emergency another 30 days, still calling for people to follow all safety recommendations. Unfortunately in Rehoboth Beach today, that was not the case. Tons of people in Rehoboth Beach again. Crowds packing the beach and the boardwalk. Upsetting some people who noticed many not wearing masks and social distancing. Derek Lopez, from Pennsylvania said, "Yeah you know you don't want to take any chances, I don't know why people are just like this but you know it is what it is." Some were worried if coming days continue to see crowds like the ones today, it could be shutdown once again. But others think this is expected as we get into summer, hoping the beaches stay open. Ky Sirmens, from Middletown said, "Like people not really gonna like that, like you see everyone out here having a good time with their family. That's what it's about summer you know, I understand it's a virus going around and it can get really serious but it's summer time it's kind of hard." Delaware Governor John Carney extended the State of Emergency and said, “It’s important to remember that COVID-19 is still active. Following social distancing and face covering guidelines makes it possible to reopen our economy by helping to reduce the spread of COVID-19." The crowds even turned some people away from their plans. Some people did try to come to the beach today to enjoy the nice weather but once they saw how big the crowds were, they decided to turn around and try something else.
Tim Cooney, from Rehoboth Beach said, "And use as much reasonable thinking as you can and try not to follow along with what your friends are doing. So we're going to walk back and keep our distance from everybody and get back to our spot and stay home I guess." Stores in Rehoboth Beach say the crowds have been huge the past few days. But for them, social distancing is not much of an issue in their stores. Chad Miller, the Owner of Pet Wants said, "We have the markings on the ground and also the arrows so I haven't really seen a big problem, the only issue that we've ever had is too many people in the store and just have to ask a couple patrons to wait outside until we can clear the store out a little bit." Outside of his store he says people are taking advantage of the warm weather. And despite recommendations from the state, many people are not wearing masks and social distancing. This was the first weekend out-of-state travelers did not need to self quarantine. The State of Emergency is now in effect until the first week of July.
