Jimmy Buffett Musical Hits Candlelight Theatre

☀️ Rise and Shine, 302. It’s not the weekend yet. But you can see it from here. You’re officially in “might as well” territory.

Let’s get to it.

Your 302 Rundown:

• Escape to Margaritaville hits the stage

• CHOP teams up with ChristianaCare

• New Spot for Fancy Takeout Opens Thursday

NEWS YOU CAN USE

🎶 Candlelight Theatre Goes Full Margaritaville

Parrot Heads, rejoice — Escape to Margaritaville is coming to Candlelight Theatre this summer! From July 12–August 24, catch this feel-good musical packed with Jimmy Buffett hits, tropical vibes, and just enough romance to make you say, “aww.”
It follows Tully, a laidback bartender-slash-singer, whose carefree island life gets turned upside down by Rachel, a brainy scientist on vacation. It's sunny, silly, and just the ticket for a night of frozen-drink-in-hand fun — no passport required.

🍽️ Wonder brings high-end takeout to Newark

Move over takeout tacos—Wonder is bringing celebrity-chef cuisine to The Grove in Newark, and it’s not your average delivery joint. This fast-growing chain partners with names like Bobby Flay and Marcus Samuelsson to offer high-end meals for pickup or delivery, all prepared in their own kitchens and delivered by their own drivers.

Opening day is today at 4:30 PM, and yes—steaks are on the menu. It’s part ghost kitchen, part fine dining, and 100% ready to disrupt your dinner routine.

Fancy food in your PJs? Don’t mind if we do.

🧠 Teachers tackling AI in the classroom

Generative AI is here, and Delaware teachers are getting ahead of it. Through a year-long University of Delaware seminar, 11 K–12 educators dove deep into digital distractions, disinformation, and how AI is reshaping student behavior. Some students are using ChatGPT to write papers, while others show up exhausted after late-night YouTube rabbit holes.

Now, these teachers are bringing their insights back to the classroom, from new lessons on propaganda to an entire AI awareness unit. One even launched a Facebook page to help parents and teachers stay savvy.

Why does this matter? Because the kids are already using this stuff—and it’s up to us to help them use it wisely.

IN BUSINESS

👶 More choices for pediatric care in Delaware

Starting next spring, ChristianaCare and CHOP are teaming up to expand specialized care for kids across the region. The partnership brings CHOP’s nationally recognized expertise to ChristianaCare hospitals—meaning local families will have easier access to advanced treatments for everything from rare diseases to neonatal care.

Nemours will still be a major player in Delaware’s pediatric scene, and this new collaboration simply adds to the options. For families navigating complex care decisions, more choice and convenience is always welcome.

🎓 Zip Code Wilmington grads just got a major boost

As a proud Zip Code Wilmington alum myself, I’m extra excited about this one. Goldey-Beacom College just partnered with Zip Code Wilmington to give bootcamp grads up to 12 college credits toward certificates in leadership and management. Starting this fall, all that Python and Java training could count as a semester of college.

It’s perfect for anyone looking to grow into management or add credentials without going back for a full degree. Goldey-Beacom’s flexible setup fits busy lives—and this makes it even more accessible.

I owe a lot to Zip Code Wilmington—this very newsletter wouldn’t be here without it. Now they’re opening doors to even more career moves.

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

Speed cameras approved for Newark’s Main Street

Following two tragic deaths involving fleeing drivers, lawmakers have approved automated speed cameras for Newark’s Main Street. The cameras, which will ticket drivers going 6+ mph over the limit, aim to reduce everyday speeding and improve pedestrian safety in the bustling college corridor.

There’s no install date yet, but they’ll be operated by vendor Elovate in partnership with DelDOT. Similar cameras are also coming to Milltown and McKennans Church roads.

It’s part of a bigger effort to calm traffic without clogging up Main Street.

Julianne Murray nominated as Delaware’s next U.S. Attorney

Julianne Murray has been nominated to serve as U.S. Attorney for Delaware, taking over the role previously held by David Weiss. Murray is currently chair of the Delaware Republican Party and says she expects to be sworn in next week.

The nomination comes as part of a new round of appointments under President Trump’s second term.

It’s a key federal position that oversees major cases in the state—one that often stays out of the spotlight but has a big impact behind the scenes.

Yorklyn residents win more say in development plans

After years of pushing back, Yorklyn neighbors just got a big change: the state quietly rewrote a rule in its capital budget that had let developers bypass New Castle County’s zoning process. Now, only a limited number of parcels can move forward under state oversight—and DNREC and the county must propose a plan to return full control to the county by next April.

This follows DNREC’s recent rejection of a proposal for 151 apartments at the old NVF plant.

It’s not a complete stop to development, but it’s the clearest sign yet that the community’s voice is being heard.

Monica Moriak elected Christina School Board president

The Christina School District has new leadership at the top. Monica Moriak was elected president of the school board on Tuesday night in a 4–3 vote, succeeding Don Patton. Y.F. Lou was also unanimously chosen as vice president.

The district has faced a year of tension, including the firing of former superintendent Dan Shelton and an ongoing lawsuit. Moriak’s election marks a shift in board dynamics and could signal a change in direction.

With more than 9,600 students, decisions from this board have a wide reach—and a fresh start could bring renewed focus.

THE HAPPENINGS

Thursday

Sculpture Garden Happy Hour featuring Benjamin Wagner returns to the Delaware Art Museum with an evening of music, art, and good vibes. Enjoy indie folk-rock from Benjamin Wagner, a cash bar, food from Zaikka, and lawn games at this free community event. Thursday, July 10, 5–7:30 PM at the Sculpture Garden, Delaware Art Museum, Wilmington.

Holy Family Summerfest continues this week with more rides, games, live music, and family fun. The 21st annual celebration runs through Sunday, July 13, with hours Thursday and Friday, 5:30–10 PM, and Saturday and Sunday, 1–10 PM. Don’t miss out on the food, raffles, and entertainment for all ages at Holy Family Catholic Church, 15 Gender Road, Newark.

Summer Concert Series at Glasgow Park: Koser brings high-energy rock to the stage at Glasgow Park this Thursday evening. Come early to grab dinner at the farmers market before enjoying a free outdoor concert under the summer sky. Thursday, July 10, 6:30–8 PM at Glasgow Park, 2275 Pulaski Highway, Newark.

Levitt AMP Wilmington: Dobet Gnahoré brings Grammy-winning global rhythms to the Urban Artist Exchange this Thursday. Experience the dynamic blend of African pop, dance, and soul in a powerful live performance. Thursday, July 10, 6:30 PM at 1509 Clifford Brown Walk, Wilmington.

Gunpowder Lane at Bellevue Bandshell brings bluegrass, gospel, and folk harmonies to the stage for an evening of acoustic roots music. Enjoy the rich sounds of mandolin, banjo, guitar, and more from this Wilmington-based quartet. Thursday, July 10, 6:30 PM at Bellevue State Park, Wilmington.

Friday

Parks on Draft at Norma B. Handloff Park serves up cold brews and live music for a good cause. Sip Iron Hill Brewery beers while enjoying a performance by Bella Von, all in support of the Friends of Fusion Foundation. Friday, July 11, 4:30–8 PM at Norma B. Handloff Park, Newark.

First Fridays at the Farm – Coverdale Farm Preserve returns this week with live music by Green Eggs and Jam, food trucks, farm animals, lawn games, and local shopping. Beer, wine, and soft drinks available for purchase—picnic blankets encouraged! Friday, July 11, 5–7:30 PM at Coverdale Farm Preserve, Greenville.

Folk Art Friday at Blue Ball Barn is back with an evening of music, food, and family fun. Enjoy live music by McMark and Company, art activities with the Brandywine Zoo, and bites from La Casa De Lulu and Ma Ada food trucks. Friday, July 11, 5–8 PM at Blue Ball Barn, Wilmington (free with park entry).

Fountain Fest Weekends brings the sparkle to summer nights with a “Divas of the Decades” theme and nightly Illuminated Fountain Performances celebrating iconic women in music. Enjoy live music in the Beer Garden, organ demos with Adele hits, and themed concessions. Friday–Sunday, July 11–13, 5–10 PM at Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Rd., Kennett Square.

Summer Concert Series at 7th & West Park: Richard Raw & The Word Warriors brings soul, spoken word, and hip-hop to Wilmington’s West Side this Friday. Bring something to sit on and enjoy this free outdoor show from one of the city’s most dynamic musical voices. Friday, July 11, 6–7:30 PM at 7th & West Park, Wilmington.

Christina Cultural Arts Center at Mt. Cuba Center brings vibrant music, dance, and family-friendly creativity to the gardens this Friday evening. Enjoy live performances by students and staff of CCAC as you explore the grounds and unwind for the weekend. Friday, July 11, 6–7:30 PM at Mt. Cuba Center, Hockessin (included with garden admission; rain date: Saturday, July 12).

Saturday

New Castle Saturday Market brings together local produce, artisan goods, and great vibes in one of Delaware’s most charming towns. Enjoy live music by 🎸Liz Watkins, plus crafts, kids’ activities, and a scenic stroll along the river. Saturday, July 12, 9 AM–1 PM on The Green in Historic New Castle.

Shady Grove Music Fest at Arden Gild Hall packs a full day of indie and alternative music from local and regional acts like Grace Vonderkuhn, Death by Indie, and Kilynn Lunsford. Bring a chair or blanket, grab food and drinks on-site, and enjoy a lively outdoor concert experience. Saturday, July 12, 11 AM at Arden Gild Hall, 2126 The Hwy, Wilmington.

KS-QUE BBQ Festival at The Creamery fires up the flavor with a Kansas City Barbeque Society-sanctioned competition and a chance to judge the best wings. For $25, you can taste all 12 pitmasters' entries, cast your vote, and score a festival t-shirt. Saturday, July 12, starting at 12 PM at The Creamery, 401 Birch Street, Kennett Square, PA.

Sunday

Chorduroy at Bellevue Bandshell caps off the weekend with a high-energy show featuring hits from the ’70s to today. Expect a fun, dance-friendly mix of rock, pop, funk, reggae, and more. Sunday, July 13, 6:30 PM at Bellevue State Park, Wilmington.

FORECAST AT A GLANCE

Thursday

82 🌡️ 71 | ☁️ | 24% | 💨 W 5 mph

Friday

89 🌡️ 72 | ⛈️ | 35% | 💨 ESE 7 mph

💧🌡️ Water temperature = 76ºF
Temperature readings taken from the Atlantic Ocean in Rehoboth Beach

🎶 Live Music, 🥳 Events & 🧘 Health Picks — Now on Their Own Pages!

Quick heads up:
Our listings are getting so full each week that Gmail sometimes clips the message. To keep things easy (and unclipped), we’ve moved them to their own pages:

Just click through to get the full listings!

• 🧘 Health & Wellness

• 🥳 Weeknight Social 

• 🎶 Live Music

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