PJ Whelihan's taking over former Ruby Tuesday in Pike Creek

☀️ Rise and Shine 302. There is always one moment that gives the whole day its personality. Here is hoping yours is a good one.

Your 302 Rundown:

• New PJ Whelihan's will replace Ruby Tuesday in Pike Creek

• Center for the Creative Arts opens winter registration

• Festival of Lights returns to Delaware Park

Let’s get to it

I’m looking to meet more entrepreneurs

I am trying to expand my circle a bit, so if you run a local business or have a project you are building, I would love to connect. I am open to meeting for coffee, swapping ideas, or just hearing what you are working on. If that sounds interesting, shoot me an email.

QUICK POLL

Restaurant reality check

Splitting a meal sounds simple until it is not. Where do you stand?

NEWS YOU CAN USE

🎨 Winter art classes now open at the Center for Creative Arts

If you have been itching to try something creative once the holiday rush settles, the Center for the Creative Arts just opened registration for its full slate of Winter 2026 programs. You can browse everything from beginner pottery and stained glass to teen theater and family workshops on the full class list. There are weekday, evening, and homeschool options, plus a few sessions already showing limited spots. It is a nice excuse to learn something new while the weather keeps you indoors, and the variety makes it easy to find a class that fits your schedule.

🎓 WilmU opens new Brandywine law school

Wilmington University has opened a new three-story law school and convocation center in Brandywine, featuring mock trial courtrooms, advanced lecture halls, and open study spaces. The $39.5 million facility will serve up to 500 students and supports the university’s goal of offering an affordable, flexible path to a law degree.

⛽ Gas prices fall just in time for Thanksgiving travel

Delaware drivers are seeing a welcome dip at the pump, with regular gas prices down 11 cents in the past week. As Thanksgiving travel picks up, statewide averages hover near $3.05 per gallon, and some warehouse clubs are offering regular gas for as low as $2.73.

🩸 Blood Bank of Delmarva needs donors

The Blood Bank of Delmarva says its supply still hasn’t bounced back after an unusually slow fall. Holiday travel, seasonal illnesses, and school breaks have all kept regular donors away, leaving the blood supply at just four days’ worth instead of the ideal seven.

Officials are asking for donations before and after Thanksgiving to help rebuild inventory, especially for Type O blood, which is used most often in emergencies.

If you’ve been meaning to give, now is the perfect time. Donors between November 23 and 30 will also get a long-sleeve “thank you” shirt as a little bonus.

IN BUSINESS

🍔 PJ Whelihan’s coming to Pike Creek

Big news for Pike Creek’s dining scene: PJ Whelihan’s Sports Bar & Restaurant is moving in. The South Jersey-based chain, known for its wings, burgers, and loyal Eagles fans, is taking over the former Ruby Tuesday spot at Pike Creek Shopping Center.

The new location is expected to open next year, adding a lively spot for game days and casual bites. PJ Whelihan’s has more than 30 locations across the region, and its mix of pub food and sports energy should fit right in.

Pike Creek just scored a new neighborhood hangout.

🏬 Ocean State Job Lot to open former Big Lots location in New Castle

Discount retailer Ocean State Job Lot will take over the former Big Lots space in the Penn Mart Shopping Center, with plans to open in early 2026. The 43,000-square-foot store will be the company’s third Delaware location and will hire up to 70 employees as it brings its mix of home goods, apparel, and seasonal bargains to New Castle County.

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

🏗️ Data center rules on pause in New Castle County

The New Castle County Council has tabled an ordinance that would set new regulations for data centers. The proposal, introduced by Councilmember David Carter, included rules on water use and minimum distance from residential areas.

The vote was delayed after Councilmember Janet Kilpatrick presented several last-minute amendments that would significantly change the bill. Some members raised concerns about the ordinance’s constitutionality and the impact tighter regulations could have on future development.

The measure could return for consideration at the Council’s December 9 meeting, depending on how much review time officials need.

📉 Delaware still waiting on jobs data

For the second month in a row, Delaware’s unemployment and jobs numbers aren’t being released. The state’s Labor Department says it’s still waiting on guidance from the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics after the 43-day government shutdown.

Officials hope to share September’s numbers in early December, but October’s data may never be published since much of it wasn’t collected during the shutdown. The most recent report available still reflects August’s job market.

Economists say missing data can make it harder to track local job trends, but the state expects to be back on schedule by late December.

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 and Holiday Events listings.

Holidays at the Brandywine Museum of Art. This longtime holiday favorite fills the museum with model trains, intricate dollhouses, and sparkling seasonal displays that delight visitors of all ages. Runs daily through January 4, included with general admission.

A Longwood Christmas at Longwood Gardens. Wander through dazzling indoor and outdoor displays inspired by gemstones, with glowing trees, half a million lights, and elegant scenes throughout the Conservatory and Gardens. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM through January 11, with timed tickets required.

Holiday Magic at Riverfront Wilmington. The Christina Riverwalk glows with a scenic walkway of lights draped across trees and archways, creating a calm and colorful seasonal stroll along the water. Open nightly at dusk through January 4, with free parking nearby.

Festival of Lights at Delaware Park. Explore a glowing walk-through display with photo ops, a holiday market, and a festive tent offering warm seating and live entertainment. Fridays and Saturdays from 4:00 to 10:00 PM through December 21, perfect for easing into the season with family and friends.

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 and already a world-class goofball. Those ears? Always on alert. That tongue? Out more often than it should be, usually mid-zoomie or right before a treat. This sweet, caramel colored cutie loves walks, handles her leash like a pro, and lights up any playgroup she joins. She gets along great with other dogs and has that playful energy that makes her the instant fun friend of the yard.

If Cataleya were a human, she’d be the friend who shows up early with snacks, remembers everyone’s birthday, and still manages to make funny faces in every photo. She’s pure joy with four paws.

Cataleya is currently in a foster home and ready to meet her forever family. If her happy heart and silly expressions are calling your name, stop by the Brandywine Valley SPCA’s New Castle campus or check out her profile below. Your new best friend might be this tongue out champ.

Come meet Cataleya at the BVSPCA’s New Castle campus.

FORECAST AT A GLANCE

Monday

55 🌡️ 36 | 🌤️ Mostly Sunny | 5% | 💨 NNW 11 mph

Tuesday

55 🌡️ 51 | 🌧️ PM Rain | 92% | 💨 S 8 mph

Wednesday

63 🌡️ 37 | 🌧️ Scattered Showers | 57% | 💨 SW 10 mph

💧🌡️ Water temperature = 53ºF
Temperature readings taken from the Atlantic Ocean in Rehoboth Beach.

THE NOT SO SHORTLISTS

• 🥳 Bar, Brewery, & Nightlife Events

• 🧒 For the Kids

• 🧘 Health & Wellness

• 🎄 Holiday Events

• 📚 Library & Community Events

• 🎶 Live Music

• 🎭 Theatre/Arts

• 🎨 Workshops & Classes

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