TOGETHER WITH

☀️ Rise and Shine 302. If your checkout cart has been open for three days, that is technically budgeting.

Your 302 Rundown:

  • Eight theatre debuts arrive just in time for the holidays

  • Blue Hens secure December bowl appearance on ESPN

  • Delaware's tequila brand prepares for larger ambitions

Let’s get to it

SPONSORED BY FINE REMODELING

Fine Remodeling is a Wilmington-based residential contractor serving families across New Castle County and nearby PA. Owner Randy Jones takes a hands-on approach from the first conversation to the final walkthrough, which means you always know who is on your job and what is happening. The team handles everything from kitchen and bath remodels to additions and finished basements, with clear pricing and a fully licensed, bonded, and insured operation behind every project.

If you want a quick sense of what your own project might run, check out the straightforward cost calculator on their remodeling page. It breaks down kitchens, baths, and additions by size and finishes so you can get a ballpark estimate before you ever pick up the phone.

NEWS YOU CAN USE

🏈 Blue Hens land a bowl game date in Alabama

Delaware fans, pack a warm jacket for Mobile. The Blue Hens are heading to the 68 Ventures Bowl to face Louisiana on December 17 at 8:30 p.m., their reward after snagging six wins and punching into the postseason as a first-year FBS provisional team. The matchup brings a run heavy Cajuns squad that averages nearly 190 yards per game, with two backs combining for 1,400+ yards.

It is the first ever meeting between the programs, and it streams on ESPN.

🔊 Newark’s college noise rules spark student frustration

A story from The Review captures growing tension between UD students and Newark’s strict noise ordinance. Several students say they have been cited for music that felt barely audible, with violations issued any time sound can be heard beyond the property line after 9 pm. Fines run into the hundreds, and many students describe a probation before judgment process that still costs money even if the charge is later cleared. You can read the full piece at The Review.

Students also feel enforcement is uneven, with quiet porches sometimes ticketed while larger parties next door are ignored. City council members say they want students engaged, yet few attend meetings where these rules are debated.

IN BUSINESS

🍹 Bad Hombre tequila eyes its next big chapter

Bad Hombre started as a house beer for Hope Lopez’s restaurant group, but it has quickly grown into one of Delaware’s most recognizable libation brands. After entering the tequila market in 2022, the line has spread through El Azteca, Jackson House, and a growing list of local restaurants and liquor stores. Lopez handles the creative direction herself, blending Jalisco heritage with a strong brand identity that feels polished and personal.

Now she is steering Bad Hombre into a full lifestyle concept with apparel and home goods tied to new collections. It is a big swing, and the momentum is on her side. Full story at Delaware Business Times.

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

📉 Delaware’s jobless rate ticks up in September

Delaware’s unemployment rate nudged up to 4.5 percent in September, slightly above the national rate for the first time since early 2024. The number of unemployed residents climbed to 23,100, compared to 18,400 a year earlier.

The increase reflects a mix of people reentering the workforce and others beginning job searches after long breaks. Even with the bump, employment still grew modestly over the year, especially in healthcare, education, local government, and construction.

🤖 New AI transparency bill aims to help smaller teams

U.S. Rep. Sarah McBride introduced a bipartisan bill that would give businesses, schools, and local governments a clearer view into how AI models are built. The READ AI Models Act asks NIST to create a simple documentation template that shows what data an AI model uses and how it was developed, similar to a nutrition label on packaged food.

Supporters say this would help smaller organizations make smarter decisions about the tools they buy, especially as AI becomes central to everything from hospital records to school district operations.

🗳 State treasurer Colleen Davis will not seek re-election

Colleen Davis announced she will not run again when her term ends in 2026, closing out seven years as Delaware’s state treasurer. During her tenure she oversaw the state’s investments, launched the Delaware EARNS retirement program, modernized the DE529 plan, and helped steer pandemic era relief funds. She also played a role in legislation aimed at helping Delaware’s emerging cannabis industry access banking services.

Davis says she is stepping aside to make room for new leadership and plans to return to the private sector.

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.

A Christmas Carol Live at Winterthur features Gerald Charles Dickens in an energetic one man performance that brings 26 characters to life onstage. See this beloved classic on Wednesday at 1 PM and 6 PM, or Thursday at 1 PM.

Chicago at City Theater Company delivers all the jazz, glitter, and sharp-edged satire of the iconic musical in an intimate, high-energy setting. Catch Roxie, Velma, and the rest of the razzle dazzle as CTC brings this Tony-winning classic to life with its signature bold style. See the show December 12 through December 20.

The Little Mermaid at Wilmington Drama League brings the beloved Disney classic to the stage with bright costumes, lively choreography, and all the songs you know by heart. Enjoy a family favorite as Ariel follows her dream of life on land in this colorful holiday production. Shows run December 12 through December 28.

A Christmas Carol by the Reedy Point Players presents Dickens classic with song, dance, and a family friendly touch. Performances run on Friday and Saturday at 8 PM, with matinees on Saturday and Sunday at 2 PM.

The Nutcracker by First State Ballet Theatre at The Grand returns for its 25th anniversary with a full professional production of Delaware's holiday classic. Performances run December 13 through December 21.

Griffin Theatre’s A Charlie Brown Christmas at St Stephen's Lutheran Church brings the beloved holiday special to the stage in a sweet, family friendly production that stays true to the heart of the classic story. Catch this 40 minute show on Friday at 7:30 PM, Saturday at 2 PM or 7:30 PM, or Sunday at 2 PM for a charming dose of nostalgia.

It's a Wonderful Life: The Musical at The Everett Theatre brings the classic story to the stage in a warm, heartfelt production running December 12 through December 21. Enjoy a festive night out as this beloved tale comes to life with music, charm, and holiday spirit.

Delaware Dance Company’s The Nutcracker at UD's Mitchell Hall brings Delaware Dance Company's classic holiday production back for its 42nd year, complete with elegant choreography and timeless storybook charm. Enjoy this beloved tradition December 12th through December 20th.

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

DOG OF THE WEEK

Say hello to Cataleya 🐾

Cataleya is one year old, bright eyed, and built for joy. She walks out of her kennel with a pep in her step and ears that seem to have their own opinions. This girl loves a good adventure, whether it is a simple lap around the yard or a full wiggle fest when she meets someone new.

She is dog friendly, social, and always ready to play. Staff say she is one of the easiest pups to leash, which makes her an excellent match for anyone who enjoys relaxed, happy walks. Cataleya has a sweet nature, a silly streak, and a face that tells you exactly how she feels.

She is ready to start her new life with a family who will adore her.

THE HAPPENINGS

Multiple Days

Holiday Art Sale at The Art Studio turns the pottery studio into a seasonal boutique filled with ceramics and handmade pieces. Browse unique gifts Monday through Wednesday 10 AM to 8 PM.

Tuesday

Light Up the Square at Rodney Square brings a festive glow to downtown with lights, music, and holiday cheer for all ages. Join the community on Tuesday from 5 PM to 7 PM for a bright kickoff to the season.

Local is Better Craft and Vintage Holiday Market – Wilmington Brew Works. Explore a festive mix of artisan goods, baked treats, coffee, honey, art, and vintage finds from a curated group of local makers while you sip a seasonal beer or cider. Tuesday from 6 PM to 9 PM, a relaxed way to browse gifts and support neighborhood vendors in the Alamo Room.

Delaware Symphony Orchestra’s Holidays at the Hotel at the Hotel du Pont offers an elegant evening of seasonal music led by Michelle Di Russo in the Gold Ballroom. Enjoy this festive concert on Tuesday at 7:30 PM for a warm, intimate holiday celebration.

Thursday

Boozewa, Coma Hole, Husband Lost at Sea, Yet it Moves at Elkton Music Hall brings a hard hitting lineup of sludge, doom, noise, and punk for fans of heavy underground sound. Catch this four band bill on Thursday at 7 PM at this 21+ show.

JD McPherson: SOCKS, A Rock n Roll Christmas Tour at Arden Gild Hall brings vintage rock and holiday swagger to the stage for an energetic seasonal show. Catch this WXPN-presented concert on Thursday at 8 PM.

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

FORECAST AT A GLANCE

Monday

31 🌡️ 15 | ☁️ Mostly Cloudy | 1% | 💨 NNE 14 mph

Tuesday

35 🌡️ 29 | ⛅ Partly Cloudy | 1% | 💨 S 8 mph

Wednesday

43 🌡️ 35 | ☁️ Mostly Cloudy | 24% | 💨 SSW 13 mph

💧🌡️ Water temperature = 49ºF
Temperature readings taken from the Atlantic Ocean in Rehoboth Beach.

THE NOT SO SHORTLISTS

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