Eden Square Shopping Center Sells for $30 Million

Rise and Shine, 302.

Quick heads up: we're making a change to our publishing schedule.

Starting this week, you'll only get full editions of Above the Canal on Mondays and Thursdays. That means everything you count on, including events, local news, and useful updates, all wrapped into two strong issues each week.

The shortlists aren't gone forever. We're just including them in the main newsletters for now so you still get the same great info without the extra emails.

As we grow and start adding more content, we'll look at adding more days back in. For now, this keeps things simple and easier to follow.

Your 302 Rundown:

• Bear’s Eden Square Bought by Atlanta-Based Group

• Crowds Line Up for Delaware’s First Legal Weed

• Tony-Winning Musical Once Comes to Wilmington

Let’s get to it

NEWS YOU CAN USE

🎭 New Light Theatre’s Once Comes to Wilmington

The Tony-winning musical Once is coming to Wilmington August 7–17, thanks to New Light Theatre. Hosted at Delaware Theatre Company, this stripped-down, folk-rock love story follows an Irish musician and Czech immigrant through one emotionally charged week.

But this production does more than hit the right notes. It supports RISE, Delaware’s refugee resettlement agency. Bring a household item to donate and check the wishlist online. Every contribution helps a family get settled in their new home.

A great excuse to see a moving show and do a little good.

🎨 DelArt’s fall classes are open!

If your creative side’s been in summer hibernation, the Delaware Art Museum is here to wake it up. Their fall art classes just dropped, with multi-week courses and one-day workshops in everything from painting and photography to metalsmithing, ceramics, and even writing. No need to be a pro, just curious and ready to play.

The best part? Classes are held right inside the museum, so you’re learning where the art lives. Spots fill fast, especially for ceramics and jewelry making, so don’t dilly-dally if something catches your eye.

🌿 Delaware’s first recreational marijuana sales draw big crowds

Delaware’s long-awaited recreational marijuana market is finally here. On August 1, twelve dispensaries opened their doors for adult-use sales, and hundreds lined up from Wilmington to Felton to be part of the state’s historic first day.

The rollout wasn’t without drama. Critics say giving a head start to existing medical dispensaries leaves smaller startups behind. Still, the new market is expected to create 1,000 jobs and generate $280 million in revenue.

Whether you’re a supporter or just cannabis-curious, this is a major shift in the state’s economy and culture.

🚿 Newark kicks off overnight water main flushing

Starting tonight, Newark’s Public Works and Water Resources crew will begin flushing water mains across the city to clear out sediment and check hydrants. The work will happen overnight between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. from August 5 through August 15.

Expect occasional dips in pressure or slightly discolored water during that window. If your tap runs rusty, let it clear by running cold water for a few minutes. And maybe hold off on the laundry until morning.

Full flushing schedules, tips, and updates are posted on the City of Newark’s website.

⛰️ Bicyclist critically injured in White Clay Creek

A woman is in critical condition after a serious fall while biking in White Clay Creek State Park on Sunday. She veered off Bryans Field Trail and tumbled down a steep 20-foot embankment near Paper Mill Road, prompting a complex rescue by Aetna firefighters and New Castle County’s high-angle rescue team.

Crews used ropes, ladders, and a rescue basket to lift her out of dense woods and transport her to Christiana Hospital with multiple injuries.

IN BUSINESS

🏪 Bear’s Eden Square sells for $30 million

Eden Square Shopping Center in Bear just changed hands for a reported $30 million. The 230,000-square-foot retail hub, anchored by Giant and home to LA Fitness, Starbucks, Citi Trends, and more, was sold by Acadia Realty Trust to the Atlanta-based Lenox Group.

Despite losing Lowe’s a few years ago, the center has rebounded with a 98% occupancy rate thanks to savvy tenant replacements and upgrades. Real estate pros call it a “generational opportunity” in a strong retail corridor off Route 40.

It’s a reminder that well-located shopping centers still pack real value, especially when anchored by a solid grocery store.

Get the full scoop at Delaware Business Now.

AirJoule brings clean water tech to Newark

AirJoule just opened a 35,000-square-foot facility in Newark to build its energy-efficient system that pulls water straight from the air. It works as a powerful dehumidifier and creates clean, usable water. That combo has data centers and other big water users paying attention.

Delaware beat out New York for AirJoule’s HQ thanks to our deep bench of engineers and available lab space at DuPont’s Innovation Space.

It's a quiet win for local jobs and clean tech. Definitely one to watch.

Catch the full story at DPM.

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

🔍 County Council wants answers on tax spike

Two New Castle County Council members are calling for an audit of this year’s county-wide property reassessment, the first one in 40 years. The process was supposed to be revenue neutral, but many homeowners saw unexpected tax increases and couldn’t figure out why.

Councilmen Brandon Toole and David Tackett say the system lacked clarity, especially when it came to commercial properties, and they’ve heard from plenty of confused constituents. They’re pushing for a closer look at how values were set and whether small businesses got the short end of the stick.

If your bill jumped and didn’t make much sense, you’re not imagining it. This might be the start of some overdue answers.

🔥 Wilmington celebrates record-setting fire academy class

Wilmington just graduated the largest fire recruit class in city history. Thirty-six new Firefighter/EMTs completed 14 weeks of training, including medical response and firefighting certification, and are now officially on duty.

This milestone follows the city’s expansion into full 911 emergency ambulance service, which boosted the department’s authorized strength to 186. The new recruits were chosen from more than 100 applicants and will hit the ground running to support the city’s growing emergency response needs.

👮‍♀️ Wilmington PD welcomes ten new officers

The Wilmington Police Department just gained ten fresh faces. Graduates from the 104th Police Academy were sworn in Friday at the JPMorgan Chase Building, and they start patrol duty this week alongside veteran officers for hands-on training.

The new officers are joining a department that’s steadily rebuilding its ranks, now just shy of full staffing. Mayor Carney called the moment a win for community-focused policing, while Police Chief Campos praised the group’s dedication and training.

This is more than just a staffing update. It’s a boost for public safety and a sign that Wilmington is investing in the next generation of neighborhood policing.

🏫 Delaware rolls out statewide school safety center

Delaware just launched the Delaware School Safety Center, a new hub to help schools prevent and respond to emergencies. The initiative includes a user-friendly website packed with tools for crisis planning, threat assessment, and emergency coordination.

It expands on a 2012 safety program and adds modern features like secure case tracking and statewide digital maps of public and charter schools. Educators, parents, and first responders all have access to training and resources in one place.

This is a solid step toward making sure every school is better prepared and every student feels safer.

THE HAPPENINGS

Monday

Roberta Faceplant at Rockford Park storms into Wilmington with their gritty blend of honky tonk and outlaw Americana. Monday, August 4, 6:30 PM at Rockford Park, Wilmington—expect a high-octane show from this “cowpunk miracle” straight out of Philly.

Tuesday

National Night Out at Haynes Park, Wilmington focuses on community building and brighter futures with the Wilmington Police, Better Tomorrows, and Rep. Nnamdi Chukwuocha. Tuesday, August 5, 4–7 PM at Haynes Park, 801 W 30th Street, Wilmington—expect family fun, education resources, and neighborhood connection.

Island Vibe at Brandywine Mills Plaza brings high-energy Caribbean rhythms to this free summer concert series. Tuesday, August 5, 5–8 PM at Brandywine Mills Plaza, 18th & N. Market Streets, Wilmington—with food trucks and local vendors to round out the evening.

National Night Out at Battery Park, Delaware City brings the whole community together with live music by Universal Funk Order and a full evening of family fun. Tuesday, August 5, 6–9 PM at Battery Park, Delaware City—enjoy kids’ games, a bouncy house, free harbor cruises, and support for local police and first responders.

National Night Out Block Party at Academy Street, Newark brings food, fun, and games to downtown Newark in celebration of community and public safety. Tuesday, August 5, 6–8 PM on Academy Street between E. Main St and E. Delaware Ave—come hang with Newark PD, Aetna, and local first responders for a night of neighborly fun.

National Night Out at Glasgow Park invites families to connect with local police and enjoy a fun-filled evening of community celebration. Tuesday, August 5, 6–8 PM at Glasgow Park, 2275 Pulaski Hwy, Newark—with free food, police displays, games, and appearances from the Mounted Unit, SWAT, and K9 teams.

Wednesday

Lunchtime Concert on the Arts Center Patio offers a laid-back midweek break with live tunes by Sam Smick. Wednesday, August 6, 12 PM at the Arts Center Patio, Bellevue State Park—bring your lunch and enjoy music in the sunshine or from the shady music garden.

Lunchtime Concert Series: Liz Watkins at Hare Overlook Pavilion features singer-songwriter Liz Watkins performing a breezy mix of acoustic, country, and pop. Wednesday, August 6, 12:15–1:15 PM at Hare Overlook Pavilion, Riverfront Wilmington—bring your lunch and enjoy a midweek musical escape.

Summer Nights at Hagley Museum and Library offers a midweek wind-down with live music, food trucks, local drinks, and ice cream. Wednesday, August 6, 5–8 PM at Hagley Museum, 200 Hagley Creek Rd, Wilmington—stroll the Brandywine, bring your pup, and enjoy a laid-back evening outdoors.

Minas Brazilian Jazz Duo at Woodlawn Public Library brings the smooth sounds of Bossa Nova to this outdoor summer concert. Wednesday, August 6, 7–8 PM at Woodlawn Public Library, Wilmington—bring a chair or blanket and enjoy an evening of world-class Brazilian jazz under the stars.

Cindee & Jimi at Battery Park, New Castle – The Wednesday night concert series continues with the soulful, acoustic stylings of Cindee & Jimi. Wednesday, August 6, 6:30 PM at Battery Park, New Castle—bring a blanket or chair and enjoy free live music along the riverfront.

Bones Brigade Free Concert at Anson B. Nixon Park – Close out the Sounds of Summer Concert Series with a night of groovy jams from Bones Brigade, a Grateful Dead and Jerry Garcia tribute band. Wednesday, August 6 at 6:30 PM at Anson B. Nixon Park, 405 N. Walnut St, Kennett Square. Come early at 6 PM for local food trucks, craft brews, and wine.

Acoustically Sound at Carpenter Recreation Area delivers a smooth blend of country and rock in this free summer concert series. Wednesday, August 6, 6:30 PM at Carpenter Recreation Area, White Clay Creek State Park—bring a chair and soak in the tunes under the trees.

Levitt AMP Wilmington Music Series: The Experience Band & Show
The high-energy funk and soul of The Experience Band & Show kicks off Wilmington’s free outdoor concert series. Wednesday, August 6 at 7 PM (with food and fun starting at 6 PM) at the Tina Betz Urban Artist Exchange Amphitheater, 1509 Clifford Brown Walk, Wilmington.

Thursday

Best of Delaware Party at the Chase Center is a high-energy evening celebrating the state’s top restaurants, shops, and services. Thursday, August 7, 6–9 PM at the Chase Center on the Riverfront, 815 Justison St, Wilmington—enjoy food tastings, live music, and dancing with the best of the First State.

Wendy Logan Band at Glasgow Park kicks off another Thursday night of free outdoor music with soulful tunes and summertime vibes. Thursday, August 7, 6:30–8 PM at Glasgow Park, 2275 Pulaski Hwy, Newark—come early for fresh eats at the farmers market and stay for the music.

The Brandywine Riders at Bellevue Bandshell blend country, rock, and jazz into an improvisational Americana sound that’s uniquely their own. Thursday, August 7, 6:30 PM at Bellevue State Park, Wilmington—a standout evening featuring top local talent under the summer sky.

FORECAST AT A GLANCE

Monday

86 🌡️ 64 | 🌤️ Mostly Sunny | 2% | 💨 NNE 5 mph

Tuesday

85 🌡️ 68 | ☁️ Mostly Cloudy | 6% | 💨 E 7 mph

Wednesday

79 🌡️ 67 | ☁️ Cloudy | 20% | 💨 E 10 mph

💧🌡️ Water temperature = 69°F
Temperature readings taken from the Atlantic Ocean in Rehoboth Beach.

THE NOT SO SHORTLIST

Now on Their Own Pages

• 🧘 Health & Wellness

• 🎭 Theatre/Arts 

• 🥳 Weeknight Social 

• 🎶 Live Music

• 🧒 For the Kids

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