Live Music Returns to Dew Point Brewing

Rise and Shine, 302.

I spent Sunday into Monday out of town and managed to forget my laptop. So if the shortlist links look a little blank today, it’s not you — it’s me. They’ll be filled in tonight once I’m reunited with my keyboard. Turns out having 5,000 neighbors waiting on me makes forgetting stuff way more obvious.

Your 302 Rundown:

• Outdoor Shows Return to Yorklyn’s Favorite Brewery

• Brio Italian Grille Shuts Down at Christiana Mall

• $25M Settlement Means Credits on Your Electric Bill

Let’s get to it

NEWS YOU CAN USE

🎶 Live music makes its comeback at Dew Point

After four long, quiet years, Yorklyn’s Dew Point Brewing is finally bringing back its beloved outdoor concerts. The brewery just won state approval to host shows again under strict new rules from the Delaware Alcoholic Beverage Control Commissioner—think early end times, capped decibels, and even plexiglass around drum kits.

Since opening in 2016, Dew Point’s summer lawn concerts became a community staple, drawing families from Hockessin and Greenville for craft beer, food trucks, and local bands. A zoning fight shut the music down in 2020, but with the first show set for mid-September, the stage is officially reopening.

Sure, the sound system will be tamed, but for neighbors who’ve missed those summer evenings, this feels like a win worth raising a pint to.

💸 Electric overcharges = refunds for Delawareans

Turns out we all paid a bit too much to keep part of the Indian River Power Plant running. After settling a complaint, NRG returned over $25 million to Delaware utilities, and now those dollars are making their way back to customers.

Delmarva Power, DEC, and DEMEC split the refund, and towns like New Castle and Seaford are already issuing credits or using the money to hold off future rate hikes. Newark’s eyeing a new substation. Milford and Clayton are still weighing options, but the goal’s the same: give it back, one way or another.

Keep an eye on your next electric bill. You might see a little thank-you in the form of a lower rate.

IN BUSINESS

🍝 Brio closes up shop at Christiana Mall

Brio Italian Grille is the latest chain to say goodbye to Christiana Mall. After 15+ years, the Italian spot has closed its doors, following a second Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing by its parent company.

The mall’s restaurant row has taken a hit over the years — Panera and California Pizza Kitchen also exited post-COVID — but the tide may be turning. P.F. Chang’s now fills the old Panera spot, and smaller restaurant groups are stepping in.

It’s tough out there for national chains, especially with strong local Italian competition and shifting dining habits.

🐟 Smoked fish processor plans New Castle plant

According to Delaware Business Now, a Florida fish processor is casting its line up north. North Fish USA just applied for a Coastal Zone Permit to open a smoked fish facility on Centerpoint Boulevard in New Castle — even though it’s not on the water.

The plant would use salt, raw fish, and hickory chips (yum) and include an emissions scrubber to keep things clean. If approved, it’ll be the company’s second site and bring 25 new jobs with it.

DNREC is accepting public comments through Sept. 5.

💰 Delaware’s $14M small biz push is on

The state is racing the clock to keep federal dollars flowing — and local businesses are scoring big in the process. Delaware just awarded another $1.59 million through its Small Business Credit Initiative, bringing the total to nearly $4 million since spring.

The biggest winner? CorriXR Therapeutics in Newark, which got $1 million to move its cancer treatment tech closer to trials. Nourish Markets also got $300K for inventory and office space. The goal is to award $14 million by year’s end or risk losing the next round of federal funds.

If you’re a small business owner with big ideas, this is your chance to make your move.

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

💸 Big jumps ahead for Marketplace premiums

If you’re on Delaware’s Health Insurance Marketplace, brace yourself. Carriers just won approval for sharp rate hikes—averaging around 25–35% depending on the insurer. According to Delaware Business Now, the increases stem from federal rule changes, expiring tax credits, and Delaware’s own high hospital costs.

Marketplace enrollment hit a record 50,000 people this year, with most relying on subsidies that cut monthly premiums by more than $500. But those enhanced credits expire soon, and fewer folks may qualify next year.

Open enrollment starts November 1, so if you rely on Healthcare.gov, now’s the time to check your options. Rate shock may be coming, but planning early could soften the blow.

DOG OF THE WEEK

Say hello to Dutchess🐾

Every kingdom needs a queen, and Dutchess is more than ready to claim her throne — right on your heart. At 3 years old, this gorgeous gray beauty has the sweetest smile and a personality to match. Loyal, playful, and endlessly loving, she’s the kind of dog who will stick by your side through all of life’s adventures.

Dutchess is just as happy soaking up pets and attention as she is getting her zoomies out in the yard or hanging with her canine companions. She’s the perfect mix of fun and affection, and she’s ready to start her forever chapter with a family who will adore her.

Come meet Dutchess at the Brandywine Valley SPCA’s Copeland Center in New Castle. She’s spayed, microchipped, and waiting to be your one and only.

THE HAPPENINGS

Monday

Tuesday

The Mighty Squids at Brandywine Mills Plaza are bringing their retro vibes to Wilmington with a fun set of ‘60s and ‘70s pop and rock covers. This Philly-based band guarantees a groovy, feel-good Tuesday evening. Tuesday, August 26 at 5 PM.

Play Streets Youth Block Party at Rodney Square is an evening of food, music, games, and community fun honoring the legacy of Rysheema Dixon. All ages are welcome to join the celebration. Tuesday, August 26 from 6–8:30 PM.

Rhythm & Brews at New Garden Township Park returns with live music, local brews, and a laid-back vibe perfect for a summer evening in the park. Bring a chair and enjoy the sounds and sips. Tuesday, August 26 from 6–8 PM.

Wednesday

Lunchtime Concert on the Arts Center Patio at Bellevue State Park features local musician John Pollard for a relaxing midday set. Pack a picnic and unwind in the music garden or on the patio. Wednesday, August 27 at 12 PM.

Lunchtime Concert Series: Kenny Curcio at Hare Overlook Pavilion features an easygoing set of country and rock tunes right on the Riverfront. Bring your lunch and kick back on the lawn for a midweek musical break. Wednesday, August 27 from 12:15–1:15 PM.

Summer Nights at Hagley invites you to unwind along the Brandywine with food trucks, craft beer from Dogfish Head, and live entertainment in a beautiful outdoor setting. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly evening perfect for closing out a summer day. Wednesday, August 27 from 5–8 PM.

Jonathan Barber & Vision Ahead at the Tina Betz Urban Artist Exchange brings high-energy jazz fusion and next-level musicianship to Wilmington as part of the Levitt AMP Music Series. Wednesday, August 27 at 7 PM. Come early for food and fun starting at 6 PM.

Spokey Speaky at Carpenter Recreation Area delivers a high-energy reggae set packed with positive vibes and island-inspired rhythms. Bring a blanket and enjoy the mellow atmosphere. Wednesday, August 27 at 6:30 PM.

Thursday

Sculpture Garden Happy Hour: Karaoke Night at Delaware Art Museum turns up the fun with karaoke hosted by NadjNJea, a cash bar, lawn games, and food trucks including Bivouac Pizza and Federal Donuts. Step up to the mic or just enjoy the good vibes among the art. Thursday, August 28 from 5–7:30 PM.

The X Band Experience at Bellevue State Park Bandshell promises an evening of eclectic tunes from a band known for taking audiences on a musical journey. A great pick for fans of variety and good vibes. Thursday, August 28 at 6:30 PM.

Summer Concert Series: What the Funk at Glasgow Park keeps the groove going with a free show from this high-energy funk band. Come early to check out the farmers market and grab some dinner. Thursday, August 28 from 6:30–8 PM.

FORECAST AT A GLANCE

Monday

82 🌡️ 60 | 🌤️ Mostly Sunny | 15% | 💨 W 5–10 mph

Tuesday

79 🌡️ 59 | 🌤️ Mostly Sunny | 5% | 💨 W ~5 mph

Wednesday

76 🌡️ 57 | 🌤️ Mostly Sunny | 3% | 💨 W 5–7 mph

💧🌡️ Water temperature = 74ºF
Temperature readings taken from the Atlantic Ocean in Rehoboth Beach.

THE NOT SO SHORTLIST

(Check back this evening for the events on the below links)

Now on Their Own Pages

• 🧘 Health & Wellness

• 🎭 Theatre/Arts 

• 🥳 Weeknight Social 

• 🎶 Live Music

• 🌽 Farmers Markets

• 🧒 For the Kids (coming soon)

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Thanks for reading. Now forward it to the neighbor who still brags about their high school track records.

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