Rehoboth Beach Pride is thrilled to officially announce its major honorees for the 2026 Pride celebration. This year, the organization proudly recognizes Jim Bianchetta as the 2026 Ally of the Year and Tony as the 2026 Hero of the Year. Both individuals have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to lifting up, protecting, and celebrating the LGBTQ+ community.
The annual awards honor those whose trailblazing efforts, quiet dedication, and fierce advocacy ensure that the coastal community remains a welcoming beacon of diversity and inclusion.
2026 Ally of the Year: Jim Bianchetta
Jim Bianchetta is a dedicated advocate and community leader who has spent decades advancing LGBTQ+ support, education, and resources. As a committed ally, his engagement began in 1995, eventually leading him to serve as the long-time President of PFLAG Wilmington/Northern Delaware. He previously served as the President of PFLAG Houston, Texas.
Driven by a mission to support LGBTQ+ individuals, Bianchetta extended his impact by forming and chairing the Delaware LGBTQ+ Housing Safeguard Committee. In this vital role, he has led efforts to address youth homelessness, expand anti-discrimination training within state departments, and secure safe housing, medical care, and basic needs for vulnerable individuals. Through his enduring leadership in PFLAG and his systemic advocacy for secure housing, Bianchetta continues to serve as an indispensable ally championing equality and dignity for the LGBTQ+ community.
Jim is the first person to receive an Ally of the Year Award from Rehoboth Beach Pride.
2026 Hero of the Year: Tony
Dr. Tony Zacchei is a retired Philadelphia-based ophthalmologist who is also the founder of Rehoboth Beach Pride. Recognizing a missing chapter in the Delaware beach town’s vibrant summer lineup, Zacchei took matters into his own hands in 2023 to orchestrate a dedicated multi-day Pride extravaganza. Collaborating closely with local advocacy groups like Sussex Pride and CAMP Rehoboth.
Zacchei’s ongoing financial support and dedication to bringing people together continue to foster safety, visibility, and lasting connections for the LGBTQ+ community in Southern Delaware. Tony is the second person to receive this award. Glen Lash was recognied as Hero of the year in 2025.
“We are incredibly proud to celebrate Jim and Tony this year,” said David Mariner, Executive Director of Sussex Pride which organizes the annual Rehoboth Beach Pride Festival. “True progress requires both fierce advocates within our community and dedicated allies standing right beside us. Jim’s unwavering support and Tony’s heroic contributions perfectly embody the spirit of unity and resilience we are celebrating at Rehoboth Beach Pride 2026.”
Both honorees will be officially recognized during the 2026 Rehoboth Beach Pride festivities, including a special presentation at the main festival stage.
For more information about Rehoboth Beach Pride Events, schedule updates, or to purchase tickets for special events, please visit the official website at www.rehobothbeachpride.org.
About Sussex Pride
Sussex Pride is proud to organize the annual Rehoboth Beach Pride Festival.
Sussex Pride works to celebrate, strengthen,and support the LGBTQ+ community in Sussex County and the state of Delaware, working through a social justice lens. We focus on arts & culture, health & wellness, social and support groups, and advocacy for our community.