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Indians top Smyrna in playoffs
Students get to Touch-a-Truck
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JUNE 5, 2026
THE LOCAL VOICE OF YOUR COMMUNITY.
Community mourns the loss of ‘Miss Pam’
Volume 23, Issue 23
FREE
Baby, you’re a firework
By Kerin Magill Staff Reporter If “tough love” was a person, it would be Pamela Davis. Davis — known as “Miss Pam” to several generations who either rode her bus to school, knew her from Jay’s Pam Davis Market in Frankford or were part of the Selbyville Middle School community for the past several decades — died Wednesday, May 27, at 63. Within several hours after the Indian River School District posted a tribute to Davis on its Facebook page over the weekend, more than 300 people had posted comments. Many recalled how Davis — who, in addition to driving a school bus and working in the school cafeteria, had served as student liaison at Selbyville Middle See DAVIS page A5
Coastal Point • Laura Walter
Above, the Indian River High School Class of 2026 went out with a bang this year, featuring a green-and-gold array of fireworks. Below right, adoring loved ones showed their support once again.
St. Martha’s hosting IR Class of 2026 sparks largest graduating class ever annual J1 picnic By Laura Walter Staff Reporter
By Susan Canfora Staff Reporter Scores of foreign students who are in the United States for the summer and working in the Bethany Beach area will receive a hearty welcome at the annual J1 Picnic at St. Martha’s Church at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 23. “They give us friends from around the world,” Jim Randle and Marianne Pena, church members who are organizing the picnic, wrote in a congenial email announcing the annual festivity, where students will gather to try allAmerican favorite foods — hotdogs, potato salad, pizza, macaroni-andSee PICNIC page A4
Under clear skies and a pleasant evening, the Indian River High School Class of 2026 lined up at sunset to receive their diplomas on June 1. The stadium was packed with friends, family and loved ones as Indian River School District Superintendent Jay Owens certified that these 285 seniors had completed their courses of study to graduate. “This is the largest class in Indian River High School history,” said Principal W. Michael Williams. “As you move on to the next chapter of your lives, remember that you are the author of your own story. Embrace every opportunity that comes your way. Do not be discouraged by obstacles or setbacks, because challenges often become the moments that shape our character and define our future. … Know that we are proud of you and excited for all you will accomplish.” The graduation ceremony started later than usual, so that it would end around 9 p.m. — perfect for a snappy, green-
and-gold-themed fireworks display, purchased with Class of 2026 funds and donations. Select choir members performed “I Will Sing You the Stars” by Mark Burrows, a gentle and hopeful song about carrying the memories and support of those who have helped us along the way. During speeches, students thanked their parents, friends,
See GRADUATION page A3