Delaware’s biggest antique show returns to the Riverfront

TOGETHER WITH

☀️ Rise and Shine, 302. If you’re wearing something with an elastic waistband, you’re already winning.

Your 302 Rundown:

• Delaware Antiques Show opens for three days at the Riverfront

• Newark 911 can now see live video from callers

• Rockford Tower hosts happy hour and tower lighting

Let’s get to it

SPONSORED BY THE ROSAIO TEAM,
CROWN HOMES REAL ESTATE

Tara Wheeler Presents: A Turnkey Home in the Heart of North Wilmington

Tucked within the tree-lined Wycliffe community, this beautifully updated Colonial blends modern comfort with timeless North Wilmington character. The home offers nearly 2,000 square feet with four bedrooms, two and a half baths, and a thoughtful layout designed for everyday living.

The remodeled kitchen features sleek new appliances, stone countertops, and generous storage that opens to warm, inviting living spaces. Hardwood floors span much of the main level, complemented by a cozy family room with new carpeting and a fireplace centerpiece. Upstairs, the primary suite includes an updated bath with new tile flooring, while three additional bedrooms provide space for family or guests.

Recent upgrades include a 2022 roof, new exterior doors, garage door, paver patio, and modern laundry. Gas heat and central air ensure year-round comfort, and the private backyard retreat is perfect for quiet evenings or weekend gatherings.

See the listing photos and full details.

NEWS YOU CAN USE

📱 Newark 911 can now take live video from callers

Next time you call 911 in Newark, dispatchers might be able to see the emergency in real time. The Newark Post reports that the city’s dispatch center can now receive live video feeds from callers’ smartphones, giving responders a clearer picture before they arrive.

When appropriate, dispatchers can text a secure link to the caller, who can then stream video directly from the scene. Police say it helps with everything from assessing crash scenes to understanding medical emergencies. The system also offers real-time translation for texts in other languages, making it more accessible for everyone.

🛒 Stuff the Bus rolls through Stanton

DART’s annual Stuff the Bus food drive is back, making a stop at the ShopRite in Stanton this week. Governor Matt Meyer joined volunteers to help kick off the 28th year of the campaign, which collects non-perishable items for the Food Bank of Delaware. Last year, the effort filled more than 14,000 pounds of food, and this year they’re hoping to top it.

With federal workers still feeling the pinch from the ongoing shutdown, Meyer says the need is even greater this season. You can drop off donations at Rodney Square, Rocky Run Parkway, or Four Seasons ShopRite through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

💔 Wilmington Senior Center forced to scale back

After nearly 70 years of serving city seniors, the Wilmington Senior Center is cutting hours and laying off staff because of major funding shortfalls, according to Spotlight Delaware. The outlet reports that five of the center’s 15 employees were let go this month, and the center will now close every Friday to save money.

The nonprofit, which offers meals, exercise classes, and social programs for adults over 50, lost its tax-exempt status last year after failing to file federal forms. It was reinstated in June, but several years of financial reports are still missing. The center receives about $200,000 annually from the state, leaving a $400,000 budget gap to fill each year.

Spotlight Delaware also spoke with longtime members who said the center remains a lifeline for many older Wilmington residents, and they hope it can stay open despite the cuts.

🚰 Tap water flavor shifts as Newark draws from reservoir

If your tap water has a hint of earthiness lately, you’re not imagining it. The City of Newark says the change comes from increased use of the Newark Reservoir, which serves as a backup source when White Clay Creek runs low after dry weather.

The reservoir’s naturally occurring algae can cause a mild taste and odor that typical filtration methods cannot remove. City officials emphasize that the water is safe to drink and meets all health standards.

They expect the issue to clear up once rainfall returns to normal. Until then, the city recommends filling a pitcher with tap water and refrigerating it overnight to reduce the flavor.

📱 ‘RaptureTok’ shows the danger of viral misinformation

The Review’s Eamon Bonsall takes a closer look at “RaptureTok,” a TikTok trend that convinced thousands of users the world would end on September 23 or 24. The prophecy, started by a South African pastor’s viral video, sparked panic as young followers sold belongings and posted prayers preparing for what they believed was the rapture.

When the dates came and went, creators and followers alike were left questioning how the idea spread so quickly. Bonsall notes that social media has amplified spiritual misinformation, turning old-fashioned doomsday preaching into viral fear cycles.

The piece calls “RaptureTok” a warning about how easily misinformation can reshape beliefs and behavior online.

IN BUSINESS

🧬 UD researcher wins national award for tackling plastic waste

University of Delaware chemical engineer Mark Blenner is getting national recognition for using biotechnology to solve one of the planet’s biggest pollution problems. Blenner just received the 2025 Langer Prize from the American Institute of Chemical Engineers for his work harnessing microbes to break down polyethylene, a tough plastic found in everyday packaging.

His team studies the yellow mealworm’s gut microbes, which can naturally degrade plastics. By isolating those enzymes and improving their performance, Blenner hopes to turn plastic waste into new, reusable materials instead of landfill trash.

The award includes up to $100,000 to help launch a startup that could take the research from the lab to real-world recycling applications.

💡 Qnity powers up with a $20B market debut

Wilmington’s newest corporate heavyweight just hit Wall Street running. Qnity Electronics, a DuPont spin-off specializing in semiconductor technology, debuted on the NYSE this week and closed its first day at $97 per share, reaching a $20 billion valuation. By Tuesday, it was already climbing past $104.

Led by former DuPont executive Jon Kemp, Qnity builds materials that polish and protect the chips driving data centers and AI systems. With five Delaware locations and 1,300 local employees, it is one of the state’s biggest industrial success stories in years.

Analysts say the strong debut shows investor confidence in Qnity’s “local for local” strategy and in the global chip boom expected to double by 2030.

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

💡 County split over Delaware City data center rules

Tensions flared at New Castle County Council this week as members sparred over whether to tighten rules for massive data centers like the proposed Project Washington near Delaware City. Spotlight Delaware reports that the 6-million-square-foot project from Starwood Digital Ventures has drawn backlash over energy use and grid strain, but union backing may have shifted support its way.

Councilman Dave Carter pushed for new limits on noise and water use, but his colleagues balked at applying them retroactively, citing potential legal trouble. For now, the measure looks likely to fail if Carter does not remove that retroactive clause.

💰 Newark approves tax and utility hikes for 2026

Newark residents will see higher bills next year after city council approved a 3.3% property tax hike and utility rate increases. The average household will pay about $518 more, mostly from a 22% jump in electric rates to fund a $37 million substation project and cover rising power costs. Water rates will rise 12% to help upgrade treatment systems for new PFAS regulations, and sewer rates will go up 8%.

City leaders say the budget was trimmed wherever possible, but inflation and infrastructure costs left little room to cut further. Council voted 5–2 in favor of the plan, calling it a necessary step to keep Newark’s utilities and streets functioning.

🏠 Lawmakers weigh another tax deadline extension

Delaware senators will meet Thursday to decide whether to give New Castle County property owners more time to pay their tax bills. WDEL reports

that Senate Bill 206 would push the payment deadline from November 30 to December 31, giving residents extra breathing room as the county sorts through court challenges tied to its first property reassessment in decades.

The confusion stems from disputes over whether separate residential and commercial tax rates are constitutional. The Delaware Supreme Court is set to hear arguments Monday, which could shape how future tax bills are calculated.

THE HAPPENINGS

Multiple Days

St. Mark’s Holiday Bazaar – St. Mark’s United Methodist Church. Get into the holiday spirit with two days of festive shopping featuring ornaments, gifts, baked goods, quilts, jewelry, and more, plus homemade soups and sandwiches from the church kitchen. Breakfast with Santa kicks things off Saturday at 8 AM. Friday from 11 AM–7 PM and Saturday from 8 AM–2 PM.

Hayrides, Corn Maze, & Autumn Activities at Ramsey’s Farm – Spend the day picking pumpkins, wandering the corn maze, and enjoying family activities, then stick around for Bonfire Nights with hayrides, a flashlight maze, and s’mores under the stars. Open Fridays 1–5 PM and Saturdays & Sundays 10 AM–5 PM, with Bonfire Nights Fridays & Saturdays 6–9 PM.

The Annual Delaware Antiques Show – Chase Center on the Riverfront. Step into a timeless showcase of art, antiques, and design at one of the nation’s most celebrated shows, featuring more than 60 distinguished dealers and exceptional pieces of American craftsmanship. Presented by Winterthur, this elegant event offers lectures, exhibits, and treasures for every collector. Friday–Sunday. Tickets $25; free for children under 12.

Friday

Art Loop Wilmington – City of Wilmington. Stroll through downtown galleries and creative spaces during Wilmington’s signature first Friday art celebration, featuring live music, pop-up exhibits, and complimentary receptions across the city. This month’s highlights include Nuestras Historias at Chris White Gallery and Colorful Voices at John William Gallery, plus dozens more shows spanning painting, photography, and mixed media. Friday starting at 5 PM. Free.

Grand Baile Salsa Night – Studio One at The Grand. Heat up your Friday night with live salsa beats from DJ Papi Chulo and dance instruction by Joe Figueroa on The Grand’s spacious dance floor. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, this lively evening of rhythm, movement, and fun is sure to get you moving. Friday from 7–10 PM. $7 admission, cashless event.

ShakesBeer – Wilmington Brew Works. Raise a pint with Delaware Shakespeare for a night of “brews with the Bard,” pairing local craft beer with live performances of Shakespearean scenes and monologues. Expect laughter, wit, and a little iambic mischief in this interactive evening of theater and tasting. Friday at 7 PM. Tickets $25–$35, limited seating.

Grace Vonderkuhn, Sug Daniels & IDLY – Arden Gild Hall. Delaware’s own Grace Vonderkuhn headlines a night of indie rock and soulful storytelling, joined by singer-songwriter Sug Daniels and rising local band IDLY. Expect a mix of sharp hooks, raw energy, and hometown pride in this all-ages show. Friday at 8 PM. Free admission.

Leslie Jones: Live – The Playhouse at The Grand. The Emmy-nominated Saturday Night Live alum and Coming 2 America star brings her sharp wit and unfiltered humor to Wilmington for one night only. Known for her bold takes and unstoppable energy Leslie Jones delivers a comedy experience that’s both hilarious and fearless. Friday, at 8 PM. Tickets available online.

An Evening with Garrison Keillor – Copeland Hall at The Grand. Spend a warm, witty evening with the legendary storyteller behind A Prairie Home Companion, joined by pianist Rich Dworsky. Expect humor, song, poetry, and reflections on aging with grace, from the “News from Lake Wobegon” to sing-alongs and stories of small-town life. Friday at 8 PM. Tickets available online.

North Mississippi Allstars – The Baby Grand. The Grammy-nominated band founded by brothers Luther and Cody Dickinson brings their signature blend of blues, rock, and southern soul to Wilmington. Influenced by Delta legends and fueled by decades on the road, their “Modern Mississippi Music” delivers gritty guitar work and unstoppable groove. Friday, November 7 at 8 PM. Tickets available online.

Saturday

Cannon Firings – Hagley Museum and Library. Experience the thunder and smoke of history as Hagley’s reenactors demonstrate cannon firings along the Brandywine. Visitors can explore the museum grounds, learn about historic weaponry, and witness the power of 19th-century artillery in action. Saturday from 9 AM–4 PM. Included with admission.

Happy Hour at the Tower – Rockford Park. Raise a glass to community and local flavor at this lively afternoon fundraiser featuring food trucks, craft beer and wine, live music from Chorduroy, and local art vendors. Plus the official seasonal lighting of the Rockford Tower. Saturday from 1–5 PM. Tickets available online.

Music on Main – 220 South Main Street. Spend the evening soaking up live music, browsing local craft vendors, and dining al fresco at your favorite Main Street spots. This celebration of Newark’s creative spirit brings together art, food, and community for a relaxed night out downtown. Saturday from 5–8 PM, free to attend.

Nothing in this section is sponsored. Just things worth knowing. I’ll always flag sponsors clearly.

FORECAST AT A GLANCE

Thursday

57 🌡️ 34 | 🌤️ Mostly Sunny | 2% | 💨 NW 15 mph

Friday

64 🌡️ 55 | ⛅ Increasing Clouds | 6% | 💨 S 16 mph

Saturday

68 🌡️ 48 | 🌤️ Mostly Sunny | 21% | 💨 W 9 mph

Sunday

65 🌡️ 38 | 🌧️ Rain Likely | 65% | 💨 SSE 10 mph

💧🌡️ Water temperature = 59ºF Temperature readings taken from the Atlantic Ocean in Rehoboth Beach.

THE NOT SO SHORTLISTS

• 🥳 Casual Plans

• 🌽 Farmers Markets

• 🧒 For the Kids

• 🧘 Health & Wellness

• 🎶 Live Music

• 🎭 Theatre/Arts

• 🎨 Workshops & Classes

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