Delmarva Plans Third Rate Hike

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Cooking at home, grabbing takeout, or heading out to a favorite spot all say something about how the week is going. This quick poll is a snapshot of real life, busy schedules, standing reservations, and those nights when the fridge just is not cutting it. Tap your answer and see how your routine stacks up with everyone else.

Delaware’s own First State Ballet Company is gearing up to present "Dreams In Motion" at the Baby Grand Theater inside The Grand Opera House. This showcase will run on Saturday, February 21, and Sunday, February 22, featuring the works of choreographer Viktor Plotnikov.

Expect a dynamic mix of performances, including "Fantasy to Dvořák" and "Nonsense (In the Sense of Innocence)," which offer their own unique takes on the dreamy and whimsical. The venue promises a close, intimate viewing experience that enhances the emotional connection between dancers and the audience.

Tickets range between $42 and $62, inviting both seasoned dance lovers and first-time attendees to enjoy this imaginative ballet presentation.

Get ready for a musical treat in Newark as the Bell’Arte Trio brings their concert, “Songs of Wonder & Love,” to the Chapel Street Players on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at 2 PM. This 60-minute show, backed by the Friends of the Newark Free Library, marks the first public concert since the library paused events for new building construction.

The trio, featuring a soprano, oboist, and pianist, will showcase a flavorful mix of vocal and instrumental pieces across several languages. The program shines a spotlight on contemporary and lesser-known composers, promising a bit of adventure for attendees. With limited seating available, it's free but requires advance registration.

In Bear, Nico and Matteo Mucchetti have transformed their basement into a mini Disney-style amusement attraction. These imaginative brothers, one a high school sophomore and the other just 12, designed and built a dark ride complete with animatronics, projections, and autonomous ride vehicles.

The duo not only constructed a multi-room experience but also turned it into a community project by hosting a food drive, with donations going to the Food Bank of Delaware. Though the ride itself has now been dismantled, the creativity and collaborative spirit behind it continue to resonate.

Delmarva Power, serving over 300,000 customers in Delaware, is looking to boost electricity rates yet again, according to Spotlight Delaware. The company has requested a 4% increase, marking their third rate hike attempt in five years, citing the need to shore up an aging infrastructure.

This proposal includes raising total revenue by $67.8 million and involves adjusting a temporary price increase into the base rate. If regulators green-light this move, the typical residential bill could see an uptick of about $6.42 each month.

The rate case will undergo scrutiny by a state hearing examiner before heading to the Public Service Commission later this year. Meanwhile, state officials like Public Advocate Jameson Tweedie and Senate President Pro Tem David Sokola are voicing concerns over the rising costs amidst ongoing economic pressures.

Delaware's EDGE Grant Competition is back this spring—and it's bigger than ever. With $1.15 million on the table across Entrepreneur and STEM tracks, local startups can snag funding for things like new equipment, marketing, or infrastructure upgrades. Finalists will also get bonus support after the pitch. An info webinar on Jan. 29 walks you through everything, including proposal tips and application templates. If you've got a business dream and fewer than 15 employees, it's time to get serious.

Bounce Pickleball on the Wilmington Riverfront just rolled out new membership options designed for anyone hoping to actually stick to those "get moving" resolutions. The all-you-can-play model means you can pop in anytime without racking up fees, and the indoor courts are perfect for winter consistency. Pickleball is easy to learn, surprisingly addictive, and way more fun than a treadmill. If you're craving a workout with a side of social, this could be your game.

Wawa has decided not to pursue a planned store at the former Boston Market location on South College Avenue in Newark. This site was poised to feature a smaller, drive-through Wawa model but now will not move forward. Despite the withdrawal, Wawa is still working on a different site at the former Friendly’s nearby.

The Friendly’s location, approved back in 2024, will house a new convenience store and gas station. Utility work is already underway at this spot, so expect progress soon. Moreover, Wawa has future plans for another store at the Leon’s Garden World site on Elkton Road.

In the meantime, other convenience store options are popping up. Dash In will be building a store, gas station, and car wash across from where the Rodeway Inn stands currently. So, while plans have shifted, convenience store lovers in Newark won’t have a shortage of places to visit.

A new bill aiming to introduce primary elections to the special election process in Delaware is moving forward. State Representative Mara Gorman (D-Newark) crafted House Bill 183, which seeks to have special election dates announced shortly after a legislative seat becomes vacant.

Currently, party members select candidates for special elections, but the proposed bill would set a timeline for primaries and general special elections akin to regular election processes. The plan is to align special election dates with regular ones when possible.

After a unanimous vote, the bill is now on its way to the full House of Representatives for further consideration. Stay tuned to see how lawmakers decide on this push for changing election rules.

Delmarva Power has announced plans for five new data centers in Delaware, raising questions about future power demands. A recent filing reveals these facilities could nearly double the existing energy demand in the state.

To address infrastructure costs, Delmarva has proposed a new large-load tariff targeting data centers. This move aims to prevent these costs from affecting other ratepayers. However, concerns linger about potential increases in energy bills, prompting discussions on additional legislative measures.

The Delaware Public Service Commission will soon hold hearings to evaluate the proposed tariff, providing opportunities for public input. Key stakeholders, including local unions and environmental agencies, are already involved in the proceedings.

In a heartfelt departure, Delaware Senate President Pro Tempore David Sokola announced he won't seek re-election. As reported by Spotlight Delaware, the Newark-area Democrat shared his plans to retire after closing out over three decades in the state's General Assembly.

Sokola, who has been at the helm since 1990, plans to make the most of his last legislative session. His final months will be busy as he tackles education funding reforms and aims to address hospital and utility costs before his term ends.

Colleagues across the aisle praised Sokola’s leadership and contributions. With initiatives shaping education, LGBTQ+ rights, and healthcare, Sokola leaves a significant legacy in Delaware's legislative history.

Wilmington City Council has passed an ordinance adding gender identity as a protected class. The ordinance, proposed by Councilmember Zanthia Oliver in December, was approved with an 11-0 vote, with two members absent.

This new ordinance aligns city code with state law, defining gender identity broadly and aiming to offer protection to Wilmington residents. Councilmember Coby Owens, a new co-sponsor, emphasized its necessity for the city.

The council action underscores the city's position in ensuring inclusivity amidst broader national discussions. Keep an eye on city updates as this becomes part of the local landscape.

On Mondays, opening acts and exhibits are listed here when they debut. After that, you'll find individual dates in the regular Theatre/Arts listings.

The Producers at The Candlelight Theatre brings the classic Mel Brooks comedy to life with its hilarious story of scheming producers and a show destined to flop. Expect a day filled with laughter, catchy tunes, and unforgettable performances. Playing through February 22nd.

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

If your love language is physical touch and unsolicited kisses, Marilyn might be your soulmate. This 3-year-old, delightfully chonky queen has never met a stranger she did not want to befriend immediately. Her signature move is leaning all the way in for pets, followed closely by a generous smooch or two, just so you do not forget how adored you are.

Marilyn is proudly food motivated and refreshingly open minded about snacks. Fruits, veggies, classic treats, she is not picky and she is not shy about her enthusiasm. She also enjoys her daily walks, where she struts with confidence like someone who knows she looks good.

Friendly, affectionate, and full of heart, Marilyn has a way of making any space feel like home the moment she waddles in. Go meet her at the Brandywine Valley SPCA in New Castle and see how fast she steals your heart.

37 🌡️ 14 | 🌤️ Mostly Sunny | 3% | 💨 WSW 14 mph

26 🌡️ 10 | ☀️ Mostly Sunny | 1% | 💨 WNW 14 mph

39 🌡️ 30 | 🌤️ Mostly Sunny | 2% | 💨 S 14 mph

💧🌡️ Water temperature = 40ºF
Temperature readings taken from the Atlantic Ocean in Rehoboth Beach.

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