Local lifeguards celebrated for their service

Not only was Thursday a perfect day to hit the beach, it was also a perfect day to honor the men and women who keep beach goers safe.

Lifeguards at the Delaware beaches from the Indian River Inlet to Fenwick Island were honored at the Big Chill Beach Club.

The event is highlighted by a presentation of a $500 check from the local chamber of commerce to each of the patrols for continued service on the weekends during the shoulder season after Labor Day.

"We have these wonderful men and women that keep our beaches safe, show up everyday, help people get on and off the beach, in and out of the water, find kids and so we're really grateful for the above and beyond service that they all provide our beach communities," said Lauren Weaver, the executive director for the Benthany-Fenwick area chamber of commerce.

Seven lifeguards were awarded at Thursday night's event:

Jonathan Kohr from Bethany Beach, James Shiels from the DE Seashore State Park, Keaton Burke from Fenwick Island, Lindsey Grow from Middlesex, David Maldonado from North Bethany Beach, Hannah Venables from Sea Colony Beach, and Katie Lee with the South Bethany Beach Patrol.