Deltaville shops to recognize trio who loved “The Rivah”

Many knew Cliff Tinsley, Steve Smith and Kevin Wade, three Deltaville men who loved being on the water and all that “Rivah life” means to Middlesex County. As the Passport to Shopping Deltaville group began to plan its annual May sales event, “Romp at the Rivah,” the idea of honoring these three men with some fun made sense.

Cliff and Pat Tinsley started Pat’s Gallery and Gifts to provide excellent service to Pat’s customers, who had for years come to Tinsley’s home for framing needs. Cliff Tinsley was always a smiling face in the shop, sharing his opinions with vigor, and is greatly missed by all who enter.

Kevin and Susan Wade opened J&W Seafood retail 37 years ago and the young couple worked hard as the seafood and tackle shop became what it is today. Locals talk about Kevin selling seafood in front of Taylor’s Restaurant from the time he was a young man.

Steve Smith, better known as “Kaptain Krunch,” and Raynell Smith sailed into Deltaville and put down roots. “Krunch” and Raynell not only started Nauti Nell’s Gifts and Marine Consignments, but also were instrumental in starting the Deltaville Maritime Museum and Family Boat Building Week.

“Romp at the Rivah and Go Wild Sale” sums up the way these three men of Deltaville loved “the Rivah.” “Visit Pat’s Gallery and Gifts, J&W Seafood and Tackle, Nauti Nell’s Gifts and Marine Consignments and Boater’s Boutique at the Deltaville Yacht Club on Friday and Saturday, May 14 and 15, and — for goodness sakes — have fun like Cliff, Kevin and Krunch would have wanted,” said a Passport to Shopping Deltaville retail group rep.