2:10 p.m., April 20, 2007--Weekend and weekday stays at attractive preseason rates at the Virden Center on UD's H. Rodney Sharp Campus in Lewes are available for members of the UD community, including alumni. The center is named in honor of Captain John Penrose Virden, a founder and leader of the Pilots' Association for the Bay and River Delaware.

Close to the center of picturesque, historic Lewes, near the Delaware Bay and ocean beaches, with golfing, fishing, shopping and boating nearby, the Virden Center offers hotel-like accommodations with overnight lodging in 23 rooms for up to 44 guests.

The rates per room are:

• April weekend rates are $59;
• May weekend rates are $69 and weekday rates are $59; and
• June weekend rates are $79 and weekday rates are $59.

In July and August, summer rates are $99.

The Virden Center offers conference facilities with six meeting rooms for groups up to 100 people. Professional meeting planning specialists are available and complete banquet and catering services are offered. The center has a full range of audiovisual equipment, satellite down-linking and teleconferencing capabilities and computer registration services, plus free, convenient parking.

For individuals, the center also is a perfect place for family reunions, wedding receptions, anniversary and birthday parties and church retreats.

For more information, call the Virden Center in Lewes at (302) 645-4100 or visit [www.ocean.udel.edu/ships&facilities/Virden.html].