Above the Canal
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Delaware Leads the Nation in Hospital Quality

Delaware Leads the Nation in Hospital Quality

Hospital rankings, business grants, and weekend events.

Above the Canal
May 09, 2025

Rise and shine, 302. Mother’s Day is Sunday — so shout out to the moms who made us snacks, gave us advice we ignored, and loved us anyway.

Your 302 Rundown:

Top hospitals
Small business support
Local events you’ll actually want to go to

Let’s get to it

NEWS YOU CAN USE

♻️ UD’s Move-Out Goldmine

UD students are packing up, and that means UDon’t Need It is back! From May 20–31, students and landlords can donate gently used furniture, kitchenware, rugs, and more at UD’s STAR Campus. Then on May 23 and 31, the public can shop the stash—most items are $10–$20 and proceeds benefit local nonprofits.

It’s like a yard sale meets treasure hunt, and it’s a great way to score cheap finds while keeping stuff out of the landfill.

🏥 Delaware’s Hospitals Are #1

Feeling good about living here? You should—Delaware just ranked first in the nation for hospital quality. U.S. News & World Report gave top marks for things like cancer care, joint replacements, and organ failure treatment. The state also scored big in overall healthcare quality and access.

ChristianaCare led the charge, earning A+ safety scores and top hospital honors. Safe to say, you’re in good hands here.

IN BUSINESS

💰 Delaware’s EDGE Grant Gets a Boost

Big news for local entrepreneurs: the EDGE Grant program is getting a major upgrade. Governor Meyer’s proposed budget includes a $3 million allocation—more than double previous funding—to support small businesses across the state. That means more opportunities for startups to snag up to $100K in matching funds to grow their ventures.

Since 2019, EDGE has awarded $7 million to 110 companies, fueling innovation from STEM to food trucks. With this new funding, Delaware is doubling down on its commitment to small business success.

WEEKEND PREVIEW

🌼 Flower Market Is Giving Spring Fever

The Wilmington Flower Market is back in full bloom this weekend at Rockford Park! From May 8–10, enjoy flowers, food, carnival rides, and live music—all for a good cause. This free, family-friendly event supports over 50 children’s charities in Delaware. Catch performances by national artists like Nine Days, Dylan Schneider, and Emerson Hart of Tonic. Don’t miss the beer garden, craft tents, and a chance to meet the Phillie Phanatic!

It’s the perfect Mother’s Day outing—bring the whole family and support a century-old tradition that’s raised over $6 million for local kids.

👟 Run, Mom, Run!

Celebrate Mother's Day with a heart-pumping 5K at the I LOVE Mom 5K on Sunday, May 11, at Canal Little League in Newark. The race kicks off at 9 AM, and every mom gets a flower at the finish line—because she deserves it! Participants receive a race tee or tank, custom bib (if registered by April 10), post-race snacks, and a Surfside drink to toast your effort. Proceeds benefit Josie's Grace, supporting new moms' mental health.

Whether you're a seasoned runner or a casual walker, this event is a fun way to honor the incredible moms in our lives. Don't miss out on this opportunity to create lasting memories and support a great cause.

🌽 Pike Creek’s Friday Favorite Is Back

The Carousel Park Farmers Market is officially open for the season! Every Friday from 2–6 PM (now through October 31), you’ll find fresh produce, artisan goods, and plenty of local treats at 3700 Limestone Road. We’re talking Big Sky Bread, Donut NV, Blue Hen BBQ, and even Randalia Bee Hives for your honey fix.

Cash, card, or EBT? They take it all—so no excuses not to swing by.

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

🗳️ Darby’s Headed for Dover (Maybe)

Wilmington Councilwoman Shané Darby is officially running for state rep in 2026. She’s aiming to represent the 1st District, after narrowly losing to Rep. Nnamdi Chukwuocha in 2022 by just 90 votes.

Known for her bold, grassroots style, Darby’s running on a platform of equity, housing reform, and community empowerment. Buckle up—it’s going to be an interesting race.

LIVE ON STAGE

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

FORECAST AT A GLANCE

Friday
65 🌡️ 49 | 🌧️ | 60% | 💨 N 10 mph (9 knots)

Saturday
73 🌡️ 53 | ☀️ | 10% | 💨 NW 10 mph (9 knots)

Sunday
81 🌡️ 53 | ☀️ | 2% | 💨 NW 9 mph (8 knots)

💧🌡️ Water temperature = 55.6ºF
Temperature readings taken from the Atlantic Ocean in Rehoboth Beach.

APPRECIATE YA!

Thanks for reading — now go text this to someone who still hasn’t made Mother’s Day plans.

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