North Wilmington Garden Center To Close After 55 Years

☀️ Rise and Shine, 302. Sunday we move the clocks ahead, the closest thing we have to time travel, and a move that benefits patios everywhere.

Your 302 Rundown:

Let’s get to it

There is always something to respond to. Floating is one of the few places where you do not have to. You rest in warm, buoyant water in a private suite, with control over the lights and music. When outside stimulation drops, your brain activity slows and stress hormones decrease.

That shift out of constant alert mode gives your mind a chance to reset. No conversation. No notifications. Just quiet.

If you are ready for an hour that is actually yours, visit firststatefloats.com and schedule your float.

The Delaware Memorial Bridge opened to traffic in 1951 and quickly became one of the region’s most important crossings. Back then, the toll booth looked a little different and so did the price. See if you can guess what drivers paid the first year.

If you are looking for an easy way to support local nonprofits, today is the day. Delaware’s statewide giving event, Do More 24 Delaware, is underway through 6 p.m., bringing together hundreds of nonprofits and thousands of donors across the state.

More than 525 organizations are participating, with bonus prizes and matching funds popping up throughout the day during special “power hours.” Since launching in 2016, the event has raised more than $12 million for Delaware nonprofits supporting everything from animal welfare and arts programs to housing and hunger relief.

There are also a few in-person happenings today, including a Coffee for a Cause Event and a community blood drive. If you have been meaning to support a local organization, this is a good day to make it count.

The Consumer Protection Unit has identified the top scams affecting Delaware residents in 2025. Imposter scams topped the list with about 2,500 reports, while online shopping and negative review scams followed closely with nearly 1,500 reports. Auto-related and internet service scams also made the list with around 1,000 reports each.

Health-related and business opportunity scams had fewer than 500 reports, and telephone, mobile services, and investment scams were even less frequent. The least reported scams were home improvement, construction, and travel scams.

The Consumer Protection Unit is offering advice to help consumers avoid these scams. For more information, they suggest visiting the Federal Trade Commission's website. Victims of scams are encouraged to fill out a consumer complaint form to seek assistance.

Delmarva Power is rolling out a new initiative to help customers manage rising energy bills. The initiative includes a $6.5 million Customer Relief Fund, flexible payment plans, and energy efficiency programs. So far, nearly $4 million has been allocated to assist over 8,000 customers in Delaware and Maryland.

In Maryland, a new discounted rate program for limited-income customers is set to launch before January 1, aligning payments with the customer's ability to pay. Delmarva Power is also implementing measures to ensure large energy users cover their infrastructure costs to protect residential and small business customers.

Looking ahead, Delmarva Power supports reforms that would allow public utilities to generate power, potentially saving customers billions. This comes on the heels of a recent blizzard that caused significant power outages, affecting over 100,000 customers at the storm's peak.

An explosion occurred at Savitas Naturals in Logan Township, South Jersey, sending shockwaves that could be felt in parts of New Castle County. The incident happened around 2:30 p.m., and first responders quickly arrived at the scene. Residents and businesses within a two-mile radius were initially advised to shelter-in-place, but that advisory has since been lifted.

Four people suffered injuries, with three requiring hospital treatment for possible burns. Savitas Naturals, an oil extraction firm specializing in cocoa butter, was identified as the site of the explosion. The impact was felt as far as the Claymont area, approximately five miles away.

As the situation develops, more information will be released by officials. Stay tuned for updates as they become available.

Old Country Gardens, a beloved fixture in North Wilmington, has announced plans to close its doors in 2026. After 55 years of serving the community with landscaping and gardening supplies, the owners are set to retire. The garden center has been a go-to spot for residents seeking materials and advice for their green spaces.

As they prepare for retirement, the owners are on the lookout for a buyer interested in continuing the garden center's legacy. The site, located at Wilson Road and Foulk Road, holds a special place in the hearts of many local gardeners. The search for a new owner is underway, with hopes to keep the business blooming beyond their tenure.

New Castle County Police Department is embracing new technology with a $50 million contract for drones, tasers, and body cameras. This significant investment aims to enhance officer safety and accountability, though it comes during a tight financial year. Spotlight Delaware noted County officials have yet to clarify how they'll fund this initiative long-term.

County Executive Marcus Henry supports the technology push, emphasizing public safety as a priority. However, some council members, like Jea Street, have raised concerns about the financial implications, especially with a challenging budget season approaching. The department plans to deploy 24 drones over six years, starting with 12 in the first year.

The new contract with Axon replaces a previous deal and includes a Real-Time Crime Center to integrate police data. The upgrade is expected to cost an additional $1.78 million annually over the next decade.

The Delaware Supreme Court has upheld Senate Bill 21, a corporate law reform that shields company leaders from certain lawsuits by smaller investors. According to Spotlight Delaware, this ruling confirms that the bill does not violate the Delaware Constitution, maintaining the Court of Chancery's authority to assess business deals.

The decision ends a contentious debate over the state's business court powers and averts potential embarrassment for Delaware's legal and political leaders. Governor Matt Meyer and others supported SB 21 to keep corporations from leaving Delaware, especially after Elon Musk's "DExit" campaign.

With this ruling, Delaware continues to be a key player in global corporate governance, reinforcing its status as a preferred legal home for companies worldwide.

The New Castle County Council is set to vote on a revised ordinance concerning data center regulations on March 10. Councilmember David Carter, who has been refining this ordinance for six months, has made significant changes to gain support. The updated proposal allows data centers closer to residential zones and mandates noise studies, but retains a requirement for closed-loop cooling systems to conserve water.

Carter's revisions aim to modernize zoning while addressing community concerns. He argues that data centers should prioritize community relations and dismisses fears that regulations will deter business. The ordinance no longer includes a retroactive enforcement clause, and Carter remains open to public discussions with developers. If passed, he may amend the ordinance based on future county needs.

Delaware Mineralogical Society Gem, Mineral and Fossil Show – DoubleTree by Hilton Wilmington. Browse sparkling minerals, ancient fossils, and unique gemstones while meeting dealers, watching live demonstrations, and exploring exhibits from collectors across the region. Saturday from 10 AM–5 PM and Sunday from 11 AM–5 PM. Tickets are sold at the door.

Dark Star Orchestra at Copeland Hall recreates the Grateful Dead's legendary live concert experience with a seven-piece band. Performing set lists based on actual shows or unique creations from the Dead’s extensive catalog, they provide a historical perspective and a lively atmosphere. Thursday at 7:30 PM.

Louisiana Calling: Sonny Landreth Band & the Iguanas at Elkton Music Hall brings the vibrant sounds of Louisiana to life, featuring the legendary slide guitar of Sonny Landreth alongside the eclectic mix of roots rock and Latin rhythms from the Iguanas. Enjoy an evening brimming with soulful melodies and infectious grooves. Thursday at 8 PM.

The Grand Presents the Simon & Garfunkel Story at Copeland Hall offers a concert-style theater show that chronicles the iconic duo's journey from their beginnings as Tom & Jerry to their legendary Central Park reunion. Experience hits like 'Mrs. Robinson' and 'Bridge Over Troubled Water' with a full live band and stunning visuals. Friday at 8 PM.

Joyride - 80's Mixtape Live - Ladies of the 80's at Elkton Music Hall revives the iconic sounds of the 80s with a live tribute to legendary female artists of the era. Anticipate a night filled with nostalgic hits and vibrant performances. Friday at 8 PM.

An Evening w/ Katie Henry at Kennett Flash welcomes you to an all-ages show featuring this talented performer. With tickets ranging from $20 to $28, this event promises a delightful night of music for everyone. Friday at 8 PM.

LEGO Shipbuilding Day at the Kalmar Nyckel. Build your own LEGO version of historic and naval ships, bring a creation from home, or design something new on site while competing for prize drawings and a People’s Choice award. Saturday from 10 AM–3 PM. Free and open to all ages and skill levels.

Live! Music Brunch featuring Cultural Restoration Project & Beyond Those Bars at Delaware Art Museum combines vibrant performances by young talents from the Cultural Restoration Project's Beyond Those Bars initiative. Savor a delicious brunch and signature cocktails while supporting emerging artists like BTB REE$E and Dread Head Kier. Saturday at 11:30 AM.

The Grand Presents Dirty Dancing in Concert at Copeland Hall provides a chance to relive the beloved film with a unique twist. The original movie plays on a full-size screen while a live band and singers perform every iconic song from the soundtrack. Wrap up with a dance-along encore party that keeps the magic alive. Saturday at 8 PM.

Total Mass Retain - Yes Tribute at Elkton Music Hall captures the progressive rock magic of Yes with a performance that brings to life the intricate melodies and complex rhythms of the iconic band. Fans of classic rock will appreciate the musicianship and authenticity of this tribute. Saturday at 8 PM.

The Grand Presents an Evening w/ Jimmy Webb at The Baby Grand invites you to experience the storytelling and iconic songs of this multi-Grammy Award-winning songwriter. Enjoy classics like "Wichita Lineman" and hear behind-the-scenes tales of working with legends like Glen Campbell and Frank Sinatra. Saturday at 8 PM.

The Legendary Kennett Flash Open Mic Night Hosted by Todd Chappelle at Kennett Flash welcomes performers of all stripes to showcase their talents in a supportive, all-ages environment. Whether you're a budding singer-songwriter or a seasoned performer, this is your chance to shine. Sunday at 6 PM.

The Grand Presents Blackberry Smoke: Rattle, Ramble and Roll Tour 2026 at Copeland Hall delivers Southern rock, blues, and vintage country with songs that feel like rich short stories. The band’s latest album, Be Right Here, showcases their Georgia roots and has topped charts, promising a night filled with music that embraces the light. Sunday at 7 PM.

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

50 🌡️ 38 | 🌦️ Scattered Showers | 71% | 💨 ENE 9 mph

45 🌡️ 38 | ☁️ Overcast | 19% | 💨 ENE 8 mph

51 🌡️ 50 | ☁️ Cloudy | 24% | 💨 SSE 7 mph

65 🌡️ 41 | ⛅ Partly Cloudy | 24% | 💨 WNW 9 mph

💧🌡️ Water temperature = 35ºF Temperature readings taken from the Atlantic Ocean in Rehoboth Beach.

We’ve been getting a lot of love lately (thank you!). But here’s a little behind-the-scenes truth: when you click on things in this newsletter—links, polls, even the little “Read more” button—it tells the internet powers-that-be that Above the Canal is something people care about.

So if you like what you’re reading, tap below and let us know. It’s a small gesture that helps this whole local thing keep growing.

Thanks for being here. Forward this to someone who probably knows half this already.

Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up
Want your business featured in Above the Canal? Partner with us!
Interested in promoting your music? Feature your band!
Got a live show or event I missed? Just hit reply and let me know!

If Above the Canal adds value to your day, consider supporting it.

Let’s make it official—follow us on Facebook and Instagram!