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- Draper Media Buys WDEL nd WSTW in $11M Deal
Draper Media Buys WDEL nd WSTW in $11M Deal
Delaware’s biggest radio voices get new ownership, state budget shortfall could affect your tax bill, Rumors opens at Chapel Street Players this weekend.
Above the Canal
November 03, 2025
☀️ Rise and Shine, 302. Todd with the perfect lawn missed trash day. We’ve all been there, Todd.
Your 302 Rundown:
WDEL and WSTW sold to Maryland-based Draper Media
Tax law changes spark emergency budget session
Neil Simon’s Rumors opens at Chapel Street Players
Let’s get to it.
QUICK POLL
🥄 The Great Dishwasher Debate
Some people treat the dishwasher like a miracle worker. Others say it’s not a trash compactor for last night’s spaghetti. The real question is, are you a rinser or a risk taker?
Do you rinse dishes before loading the dishwasher? |
NEWS YOU CAN USE
🌲 Scouting grows strong in New Castle County
Scouting is making a comeback across New Castle County, with new programs and open house nights this month for families curious about joining. Scouting America says parents are drawn to its mix of outdoor adventure, leadership, and community service.
Kids can start as Cub Scouts or dive into coed options like Venturing, Sea Scouts, and Exploring, each designed to build confidence (and a few campfire skills). Join Scouting Nights happen Nov. 4, 5, 6, and 18 at local schools around Wilmington and Hockessin.
Whether your child’s idea of adventure is hiking a trail or steering a canoe, there’s a troop ready to welcome them.
IN BUSINESS
🎙️ New voices behind WDEL and WSTW
Delaware’s radio landscape just changed stations. Draper Media closed an $11 million deal to buy six local radio stations from Forever Media, including WDEL, WSTW, and the Shipley Road studios.
The Salisbury-based company already runs WBOC-TV, WRDE, and Telemundo Delmarva, and this move expands its reach into northern Delaware. Forever Media, meanwhile, is leaving the market entirely.
Listeners can expect the same voices and playlists, just new ownership behind the mic.
GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS
💰 Lawmakers called back for budget fix
Delaware’s lawmakers are heading back to Dover this month for an emergency session to tackle a looming budget shortfall. Gov. Matt Meyer is calling a special session for Nov. 13 after the state’s revenue forecast dropped by hundreds of millions thanks to federal corporate tax changes.
The quick fix on the table: decoupling state and federal tax laws to keep new deductions from slashing Delaware’s income. DEFAC flagged the shortfall in October, and the timing couldn’t be tighter as some changes kick in January 1.
Expect a packed few weeks in Dover, with budget hearings and public input all crammed into mid-November.
🏘️ Newark gets state help on housing solutions
Newark just landed a state grant to help craft local laws that make housing more affordable. The new program pairs cities with consultants who’ll research and write policy proposals, from duplex-friendly zoning to rules for basement apartments (also known as accessory dwelling units).
Mayor Travis McDermott called it “a helping hand” for the city’s overworked planning team. The idea is to close Newark’s 2,200-unit affordable housing gap without losing neighborhood character, or waiting for Dover to step in with statewide mandates.
Public input will shape which ideas move forward, but one thing’s clear: housing debates in Newark are about to get real.
OPENING ACTS & EXHIBITS
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 Trail to Oregon! – Wilmington Drama League. Saddle up for this fast-paced, laugh-out-loud musical parody inspired by the classic computer game, where a family of pioneers faces everything from bandits to exploding cows. With interactive twists and over-the-top humor, this StarKid creation promises a night of pure comedic chaos. Thursday–Sunday. Tickets available online.
Rumors – Chapel Street Players. Neil Simon’s classic farce unfolds when a deputy mayor’s accidental gunshot sends a dinner party spiraling into chaos, lies, and laugh-out-loud confusion. With missing spouses, nervous guests, and wild misunderstandings, Rumors promises a night of fast-paced comedy and witty mayhem. November 7–15. Tickets available online.
Griffin Theatre Presents: The Secret Garden – St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church. Step into the world of Mary Lennox as she uncovers the mysteries of a hidden garden that transforms hearts and lives in this stage adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s timeless story. Filled with wonder, warmth, and renewal, it’s a beautiful tale for all ages about friendship and healing. November 7–16. Tickets $15–$20.
Nothing in this section is sponsored. Just things worth knowing. I’ll always flag sponsors clearly.
DOG OF THE WEEK
Say hello to Elijah 🐾
Don’t let that serious face fool you. Elijah’s a big softie with an even bigger heart. This two-year-old sweetheart has perfected the art of the head tilt and the full-body wiggle. Around the shelter, he’s known as a certified “office buddy,” happily lounging at your feet or sneaking in for a belly rub between emails.
Elijah has a lot going for him. He walks beautifully on leash, knows how to “sit” like a champ, and will never turn down a squeaky toy or a treat. But what he really wants is a person to love, someone who doesn’t mind a lap full of dog and a face full of kisses.
Come meet Elijah at the Brandywine Valley SPCA’s New Castle campus (290 Churchmans Road). He’s ready to melt your heart and move right in.
Get PAW-tected at our free drive-thru vaccine clinic! 🐾
Bring your pets to the Delaware State Fairgrounds on Sunday, November 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a free vaccine clinic. We’ll provide rabies and distemper/FVRCP shots for dogs and cats, thanks to Petco Love.
No appointment needed. Just drive through and we’ll handle the rest. Learn more at bvspca.org.
THE HAPPENINGS
Wednesday
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom: The Musical – Copeland Hall at The Grand. The beloved children’s book bursts to life on stage as the alphabet letters race up—and tumble down—the coconut tree in this colorful, musical adventure. Packed with rhythm, laughter, and audience participation, it’s perfect for introducing young audiences to the joy of reading. Wednesday at 9:30 AM and 12 PM. Best for grades Pre-K through 3.
Nothing in this section is sponsored. Just things worth knowing. I’ll always flag sponsors clearly.
FORECAST AT A GLANCE
Monday
62 🌡️ 45 | ☁️ Mostly Cloudy | 24% | 💨 WSW 7 mph
Tuesday
62 🌡️ 40 | ☀️ Sunny | 1% | 💨 WNW 15 mph
Wednesday
67 🌡️ 47 | 🌤️ Partly Sunny | 3% | 💨 SSW 13 mph
💧🌡️ Water temperature = 60ºF
Temperature readings taken from the Atlantic Ocean in Rehoboth Beach.
THE NOT SO SHORTLISTS
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