MAGAZINE
15th Annual Event to Feature 27 Acts
this issue
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• Ninth Street Moves to Market Street Complete Schedule and Line-Up of Performers page 9 • Cool Music Choices for a Hot Summer ALSO INSIDE: Finalists of Riverfront Photo Contest page 12 • Riverfront August Activities Calendar
AUGUST JUNE 2012 Vol. Vol. 34 ISSUE ISSUE12 2
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OHS 10773 Agg Print V3 8x10.5_Layout 1 4/11/12 3:15 PM Page 1
That guy! The one who cuts people off, merges without looking, ignores yield signs, tailgates, rolls through stop signs, speeds, passes on the shoulder and runs red lights. That’s the guy police are looking for. How many of these traffic rules do you break at one time? Break three or more and it could cost you up to $300. Plus you could lose your license and have to attend driver behavior modification classes. Are you that guy? Take our quiz to find out at AggressiveDrivingDE.com
RESPECT THE SIGN. ARRIVE ALIVE DE
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UD is for you. What do you need to finish that degree? At UD you can take courses in the evening, during the day, or online…in Newark or Wilmington… whatever suits your hectic life. We have academic advising and career counseling just for returning students like you. You know you need the credential. UD makes it possible. Visit www.pcs.udel.edu/credit/ for details, or contact us at 302/831-7600 or continuing-ed@udel.edu.
The University of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity University.
OA080012
BBQ & BLUEGRASS THURSDAY, AUGUST 16 | 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.
Enjoy bluegrass band Boulevard Express and a delicious BBQ dinner with all the fixins’ at this relaxed family-friendly picnic in the Museum’s Copeland Sculpture Garden! Blankets and lawn chairs encouraged. $35 per person ($17.50 for kids 12 and under) Purchase tickets at delart.org.
2301 Kentmere Parkway Wilmington, DE 19806 302.571.9590 delart.org
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Hosted by the Renaissance Social Group of the Delaware Art Museum— promoting art appreciation through dialogue, discovery, and social activities. Photography by Alessandra Nicole.
7/24/12 5:07 PM
What Good Is Your Website If Nobody Can Find It?
T
SEO .com
Campaigns Starting @ 99 Bucks
For ed
302-655-9949
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Produced by
all rights reserved
TSN Publishing, Inc. President Gerald duPhily
August 2012 volume 4, issue 2
6 The Arts Chill Out
Contributing Editor Bob Yearick
Art Director Shawna Sneath
Production Manager Matt Loeb
Advertising Sales Jim Hunter Miller Marie Graham
Cool music choices for a hot summer in the city.
By Michelle Kramer-Fitzgerald
7 Cover Story 15 Years of the Blues
The Riverfront Blues Festival has become a regional happening. This year, 27 acts are scheduled to perform. By Scott Harrison
13 Business Ninth Street Moves to Market Street
Project Manager Carrie Gray
Contributing Writers Josephine Eccel, Carol Kipp, Michelle Kramer-Fitzgerald, Larry Nagengast, Scott Pruden,
Contributing Photographers Joe del Tufo, Tim Hawk Les Kipp, Matt Urban
For editorial and advertising information: p (302) 655-6483 f (302) 654-0569
TSN Media, Inc. 307 A Street Wilmington, DE 19801
Wilmington’s iconic book shop gets a new lease on life.
By Matt Amis
Departments 4
“in” Calendar
10
On the Riverfront
14
City Notes
15
Wilmington Renaissance News
On the cover: Amy Miller and Lenny Hess dance to Kenny Wayne Sheppard at the 2007 Riverfront Blues Festival. photo by Tim Hawk
ABOUT THE “IN” CAMPAIGN
Wilmington is truly in the middle of it all, and the “in” campaign is a celebration of the accomplishments we continue to achieve as a community to make our city stronger and more attractive. From neighborhood and business development to our arts and cultural scene, the people of Wilmington are working together to support our city’s ongoing growth and prosperity.
ABOUT WILMINGTON MAGAZINE
The mission of Wilmington Magazine is to capture, through stories and images, the ongoing energy present in the city. We aim to inform readers, both inside and outside Wilmington, of the city’s residential, financial, and cultural progress while remaining entertaining and vibrant. 3
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7/25/2012 1:48:42 PM
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7/25/12 10:10 AM
WHAT’S ‘IN’ FOR AUGUST 2012
MUSIC
NOW - FRIDAY, AUGUST 24
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
FOOD & DRINK
NOW - SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16
WEDNESDAYS THRU AUGUST 15
WEDNESDAYS THRU AUGUST 29
Wednesdays on the Water Wine Cruise
IN Pin Design Contest
Fragile Boundaries
Sunset Jazz Series
Think you’ve got what it takes to design the next IN pin? Prove it - let us see What’s IN to you! • bitly.com/MxgfNS
Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts
200 S. Madison Street • 302.656.6466
5pm-8pm The Grand Opera House 818 N. Market Street • 302.658.7897 bitly.com/NO1o3n
5:30, 6:30 & 7:30pm Dravo Plaza 302.425.4890 • bitly.com/MxgfNW
THURSDAYS THRU AUGUST 30
FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 5PM
FRIDAY, AUG 3 - SUNDAY, AUG 5
EVERY SATURDAY, 1PM - 5PM
2012 Shipyard Summer Concert Series
bitly.com/NO1o3l
Art on the Town
Riverfront Blues Festival
Saturday Bluegrass Jams
Dravo Plaza • Justison St. • 302.425.4890
Discover all the amazing artists in your backyard! Starts/Ends at the DCCA
Woodside Farm Creamery 1310 Little Baltimore Rd • 302.239.9847
bitly.com/MxgfO0
bitly.com/NO1o3p
Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park 80 Rosa Parks Drive • 302.425.4890
TUESDAYS THRU AUGUST 28
NOW - SATURDAY, AUGUST 25
2ND SATURDAY EVERY MONTH
THURSDAY, AUGUST 16, 8PM
Happy Hour Yoga Session and Wine Tasting 5:30pm World Cafe Live at the Queen 500 N. Market St. • bitly.com/NO1ojD
FRI, AUG 17 - SUN, AUG 19
Brandywine Family Film Festival
Delaware Museum of Natural History 4840 Kennett Pike • bitly.com/NO1ojF
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bitly.com/MxgdWq
bitly.com/MxgfO4
Bye Bye Birdie
Spin for Jim
Gin Blossoms
New Candlelight Theatre 2208 Millers Rd. • 302.475.2313
Bellefonte Cafe • 804 Brandywine Boulevard • 302.761.9175
World Cafe Live at the Queen 500 North Market Street • 302.994.1400
SATURDAY, AUGUST 25, 10AM
TUESDAY, AUGUST 28, 8PM
SAVE THE DATE! SEPT 22- SEPT 30
PawPaw Folk Festival
Joan Osborne (Acoustic Duo Show)
IN Wilmington Week
bitly.com/MxgfO6
Blue Ball Barn 1914 West Park Drive • 302.577.1164 bitly.com/NO1pUS
bitly.com/NO1pUQ
World Cafe Live at the Queen 500 N. Market St. • bitly.com/MxgecI
bitly.com/Mxgg4k
A 9 day celebration of everything arts & entertainment #INWilm! Visit inWilmingtonDE.com for more.
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Cool Music Choices for a Hot Summer in the City By Michelle Kramer-Fitzgerald Finding relief from this summer’s heat has been a challenge, so I’ve found some “ArtStuff ” that’s cool for you and your wallet: a bevy of free Wilmington-area summer concert series that offer genres for every listening ear. Take a musical tour with me, complete with insider tips…
Summer Salon Series & Sunset Jazz Series at The Grand Opera House The Grand gives you two chances to enjoy great local music. The Summer Salon Series features outdoor performances from the Grand’s Arts Academy students to world beats and classical works. Bring your lunch and relax with mid-day music on Market. Later, the Sunset Jazz Series—hosted by local musician Shaun Dougherty —delivers an end-of-day treat with the area’s best jazz musicians, along with happy hour specials and small plates from Chelsea Tavern. Insider tip: The “Sunset Signature Cocktail” is a winner. Give it a try. Wednesdays at noon and 5 p.m., through Aug. 15 Grand Opera House, 818 N. Market St.
IN the Park Summer Lunchtime Concert Series at H.B. DuPont Park The City of Wilmington offers awesome summer sounds that drift upward between the tall bank buildings framing H.B. Dupont Park. This lunchtime concert series comes alive with a diverse line-up of acts like Second Chance Blues, Brooklyn 35 and my favorite, World music from the fabulously eclectic ensemble IKIBEAT. In the event of rain, concerts move indoors to Basil Restaurant in the Sheraton Suites Hotel. Insider tip: Just down the block from H.B., Presto! Gourmet has excellent take-out lunch choices as well as good coffee and smoothies. Tell them I sent you! Fridays at noon through Aug. 31 H.B. DuPont Park (Washington Street between 10th & 11th Streets)
Lunchtime Concert Series & Summer Concert Series at Bellevue Park Bellevue’s a truly beautiful setting for this series, with its outdoor amphitheater featuring everything from reggae to the bluegrass/ folky sounds of Whirled Peas to show tunes. Enjoy the sounds as you stroll through the property, which is filled with historic charm. For more info, call the Concert Hotline at 761-6965. Insider tip: Afterward, head to nearby Bellefonte Café on Brandywine Boulevard for nosh and a solid bar menu…say hello to proprietor Donna Rego for me. Wednesdays at noon Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. through Aug. 26 800 Carr Road
Saturday Bluegrass Jams at Woodside Farm Creamery Regional bluegrass musicians gather to play on the grounds of Woodside Farm Creamery (weather permitting). Performances are free for audiences and jam participants. Insider tip: Woodside’s homemade ice cream is a “don’t miss.” Sample the fun flavors like peanut butter & jelly, cake batter, and dirt. Saturdays at 1 p.m., Aug. 4 through 25 1310 Little Baltimore Road, Hockessin Finally, in a fun twist—connecting art and this month’s pizza theme—noted Delaware folk artist Eunice LaFate will unveil new works during Wilmington’s Art on the Town on Friday, Aug. 3. Her exhibition, “Diverse Perspectives,” will feature paintings “The Art of Pizza.” Her venue? None other than the LoMa hot spot, Extreme Pizza at 201 N. Market St. Enjoy the rest of your summer, arts pals, and get ready for an art-filled fall just around the corner!
Shipyard Summer Concert Series at Dravo Plaza This outdoor series under the colorful cranes at Dravo treats concertgoers to jazz with Red Alert Band, folk with Danny Quinn, and Dixieland jazz with the Barbone Street Band, all with the scenic backdrop of Wilmo’s Riverfront. For more info, call 425-4890, ext.109. Insider tip: Stop by Big Fish Grill beforehand for delicious (and affordable) happy hour food and drink specials (at the bar only). Thursdays at 7 p.m. through Aug. 26 Under the cranes at Dravo Plaza, Justison Street next to the Shipyard Shops
Rockford Tower Summer Concert Series
Bring a picnic and lawn chair, and relax under the shadow of Rockford Tower for music variety featuring the likes of the Karen Rodriguez Latin Jazz Ensemble and Pette Gumbo & Who Dat Band. For more info, call the Concert Hotline at 222-7436. Insider tip: During the concerts, access to Rockford Tower is available. Mondays at 6:30 p.m. through Aug. 13 2000 Lookout Drive 6 . The Arts
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August 2012
7/24/12 5:27 PM
James Cotton photo by Paul Natkin
JoAnn Clark and Mike Gutierrez of Newark watch Kenny Wayne Sheppard at the Blues Fest. photo By Tim Hawk
RIVERFRONT BLUES FEST FEATURES 27 BANDS Aug. 3-5 marks the 15th annual event By Scott Harrison
I
f you’re part of that legion of people who believe “there ain’t nothin’ like the blues,” then make plans to head to the Wilmington Riverfront on the first weekend in August. That’s when Wilmington will host its 15th annual Riverfront Blues Festival. “We have a heck of a line up this year; a really stellar selection,” says Gene Fontana, founder of the Diamond State Blues Society (DSBS). The event will showcase 27 bands on two stages. Other features include a harmonica workshop conducted by Gary Allegretto, winner of the festival’s 2011 “Keeping the Blues Alive” award, and a jam band session tent led by veteran Delaware bluesman Gary Cogdell, who will discuss the history of the blues in Delaware. The DSBS, whose goal is to preserve this musical genre, was formed in1997 and was inspired by
a vast local following and Fontana’s passion for the blues. DSBS, which put on the first St.Georges Blues Fest earlier this summer, works closely with Tina Betz, Wilmington’s director of Cultural Affairs, and others to make the festival as pure as possible. Despite this close working relationship with the city, Fontana, who has been in charge of selecting the performers for the last 11 years, expresses concern about a new administration. “I hope the festival continues,” he says. “I would hate to see something that’s become so big and loved end, but we have a new mayor coming in next year and they may have a different outlook on the event.” The blues celebration generates plenty of business for restaurants, bars, and hotels. It also demonstrates the cultural growth of the city. –continued on page 9
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2012 BlueS Fest
Lineup
Left: Lonnie Brooks Above: Wayne Baker Brooks photos by Connie Dee Taylor
Bandwagon Stage Friday
Fri., Aug. 3th
Sat., Aug. 4th
4:30PM - Gates open
11am - Gates open
5:00 pm: Southern Hospitality featuring J.P Soars, Damon Fowler & Victor Wainwright
12:00 PM: Blue Cat Blues 1:30 PM: Albert Castiglia
6:45 pm: Mitch Woods & His Rocket 88’s
3:15 PM: Zac Harmon
8:30 pm: Lil Ed & the Blues Imperials
5:00 PM: Chris Cain
10:30 pm– 1:30 am: Diamond State Blues Society AFTERPARTY hosted by Mikey Junior & Stone Cold Blues
6:45 PM: Maria Muldaur 8:30 PM: Kenny Neal Family Band Check out Garry Cogdell & His Sessions Tent between acts on the Main Stage 10:30 pm - 1:30 am: Diamond State Blues Society AFTERPARTY hosted by Dave Fields
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6:15 PM: Club Phred
SUN, Aug. 5th 11:30am - Gates open
8:00 PM: Second Chance Blues Band
Saturday 1:00 PM: Alicia Maxwell & the Diamond Dawgs 2:45 PM: Gary Allegretto 4:30 PM: The Billy Pierce Band 6:15 PM: Johnny Never & the Solar Pimps 8:00 PM: lower case blues band
Sunday
12:30 PM: The Nighthawks 2:30 PM: Royal Southern Brotherhood featuring Devon Allman, Mike Zito, Cyril Neville, Charlie Wooten & Willie Green 4:30 PM: Brooks Family Blues Dynasty featuring Lonnie Brooks, Ronnie Brooks & Wayne Baker Brooks
Check out Garry Cogdell & His Sessions Tent between acts on the Main Stage
2:00 PM: James Day 4:00 PM: Nuthin’ But Trouble
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Ronnie Brooks The Lowrider Band
Lil Ed
Riverfront Blues Fest Features 27 Bands –continued from page 7
“We get a good turnout as far as guests in the hotel and we get a good amount of business from that,” says Courtney Hall, chef at Basil Restaurant. “It doesn’t just help us, though; it’s good for the public too.” This year the DSBS will sponsor two after-parties at Basil, in the Sheraton Hotel on Delaware Avenue, starting at 10:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. There will be live music by Mikey Junior and Stone Cold Blues as well as Dave Fields. The Friday night headliner at the festival will be Lil’ Ed Williams and his band, the Blues Imperials. Born in Chicago in 1955, Williams was surrounded by music as a kid, playing three instruments by the time he was 12. He formed the Blues Imperials in 1975. The band will play cuts from its current CD, Jump Start, which includes electrifying slides, picking, and, according to Williams, meaningful lyrics that his wife helped to write. “Blues is more than the music, it’s how you live day by day,” Williams says. “It’s what you see around you and how you feel. Everyone has the blues in some sort of way because everyone has their ups and downs.” Williams has played the festival before, and he says
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he enjoys the vibe of the crowd at the festival and the camaraderie of other musicians. “Us musicians should stick together,” he says. “We’re all out here for the same purpose—to make people forget about their troubles.” Tickets are available at inwilmington.com in a threeday package for $50 and as individual day passes for $20. Children 12 and under are free. All tickets must be picked up at two will-call locations: the corner of French Street and Rosa Parks Drive or Market Street and Rosa Parks Drive.
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RIVERFRONT 3
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MAP OF
1. Amtrak Station 2. Opera Delaware Studios/City Theater Co. 3. Wilmington Youth Rowing Assn., WYRA.ORG 4. Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park 5. Residences at Christina Landing 6. Asnan Sushi Bar & Asian Cuisine, ASNANRESTAURANTS.COM 7. Harry’s Seafood Grill / Riverfront Market, HARRYS-SAVOY.COM 8. Delaware Theatre Co., DELAWARETHEATRE.ORG 9. FireStone Roasting House, FIRESTONERIVERFRONT.COM 10. Cosi at the Barclays Crescent Building, GETCOSI.COM
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11. Hare Pavilion/Riverwalk 12. AAA Mid-Atlantic Travel Center, AAAMIDATLANTIC.COM 13. Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts, THEDCCA.ORG 14. Justison Landing, Currie Hair, Skin & Nails, CURRIEDAYSPA.COM Veritas Wine & Spirits, VERITASWINESHOP.COM 15. Kooma, KOOMASUSHI.COM CrossFit Riverfront, CFRIVERFRONT.COM 16. Delaware Children’s Museum, DELAWARECHILDRENSMUSEUM.ORG
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RIVEFRONT BLUES FESTIVAL
RIVEFRONT FAMILY FEST
August 3,4,5 Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park
August 18 Chase Center
17. Joe’s Crab Shack, JOESCRABSHACK.COM 18. Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant, IRONHILLBREWERY.COM 19. Public Docks 20. Big Fish Grill, BIGFISHRIVERFRONT.COM 21. Frawley Stadium, BLUEROCKS.COM Delaware Sports Museum & Hall of Fame 22. Chase Center on the Riverfront, CENTERONTHERIVERFRONT.COM 23. Dravo Plaza & Dock 24. Shipyard Center Planet Fitness, PLANETFITNESS.COM
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THE AMAZING RIVERFRONT WILMINGTON RACE
WEDNESDAYS ON THE WATER WINE CRUISE
Part of Riverfront Family Fest August 18 Chase Center
Wednesdays throughout August Dravo Dock
25. Timothy’s Restaurant, TIMOTHYSONTHERIVERFRONT.COM Molly’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream, MOLLYSICECREAM.COM Ubon Thai Restaurant 26. Wilmington Rowing Center, WILMINGTONROWING.ORG 27. Russell W. Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge/ DuPont Environmental Education Center, DUPONTEEC.ORG 28. DART Park-n-Ride Lot
Photo by Dick Dubroff of Final Focus Photography
7/24/12 5:33 PM
AUGUST Riverfront Events
Wednesday on the Water Wine Cruise Enjoy a wine tasting on the river, every Wednesday in August. Board at the Dravo Dock near the Shipyard at 5:30, 6:30, or 7:30pm, for a one-hour cruise with hand selected wines from Veritas Wine + Spirits. This unique outing is perfect for happy hour or an after-dinner drink! Cost is $15 per person, which includes wine. Must be 21 or older. Cash only. Dravo Plaza riverfrontwilm.com/destinations/river-taxi Shipyard Summer Concert Series Thursday nights throughout August 7-8:30 p.m August 2:Tony Sands August 9: Urband Ledgend August 16: The Barbone Street Band August 23: Danny Quinn August 30: Red Alert Band Concert attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy entertainment. For more information or questions regarding concert status due to inclement weather please call 302-425-4890 ext. 109 or visit our website. Dravo Plaza riverfrontwilm.com Family Nights on the River Taxi Every Tuesday and Thursday night in August –Cost is $15.00 for families of (4) people or $6.00 per person. After your 45 minute ride up the Christina receive a coupon to receive 10% off of Molly’s Old Fashion Ice Cream. Dravo Dock riverfrontwilm.com/destinations/river-taxi Riverboat Queen All-You-Can-Eat-Crab Cruise Every Thursday and Friday, 7pm Looking for something fun and exciting to do this summer in the Wilmington Area? Price is $44 dollars per Adult and $14 for Children 10 and under. *includes fried chicken and corn on the cob. So come enjoy all the crabs you can eat down on the River. Reservations are required and space will be limited again this year, so purchase your tickets online now to reserve your spot! The Riverboat Queen is docked at the Public Docks behind Iron Hill Brewery. wilmingtonriverboat.com 12
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Digital Photography in Nature Series Wednesdays, August 1, 8, 15, 22, 6:30-8:30 pm Capture beauty through the lens of the camera. Learn how to use your digital camera effectively and to compose the perfect photo with instruction from the Delaware Photographic Society. Bring your own camera or we can provide one. DuPont Environmental Education Center riverfrontwilm.com Riverfront Blues Festival August 3, 10:00am August 4, 11:00am August 5, 11:30am The Riverfront Blues Festival is a 3 day, outdoor music festival held on the riverfront in Wilmington, Delaware. Please visit: www.RiverfrontBluesFest. com for a schedule and more information! Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park riverfrontbluefest.com Blue Rocks Vs. Winston-Salem Dash August 7-9 Frawley Stadium Please visit: bluerocks.com for more information on game times and promotions. Parents Night Out! August 10, 6:30 - 8:30pm Set mom and dad loose to have dinner along Wilmington’s Riverfront while you stay at DEEC and have all the fun with games, a scavenger hunt and an evening hike. Dinner provided. Parents receive a coupon for Timothy’s Riverfront Grill. DuPont Environmental Education Center riverfrontwilm.com Pace for Prevention 5K August 11, 8:45am Benefits Tancredi Colon Cancer Prevention Foundation. Race begins at Iron Hill Brewery. Registrations opens at 7:45am. Iron Hill Brewery races2run.com Blue Rocks Vs. Salem Red Sox August 10-12, 6:00pm Frawley Stadium Please visit: bluerocks.com for more information on game times and promotions. KK’s 5K Run/Walk for Eosinophilic Esophagitis August 13, 6:30pm Come Join us for the Sixth Annual KK’s 5k! Event benefits: Eosinophilic Esophagitis Research at the Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia. Registration opens at 5:30pm. Hare Pavillion giving.chop.edu/site/TR/Events/ General?pxfid=7540&fr_id=1030&pg=fund
Blue Rocks Vs. Lynchburg Hillcats August 16-19 Frawley Stadium Please visit: bluerocks.com for more information on game times and promotions. 3rd Annual Riverfront Family Fest August 18, 11:00am The fun starts at the Chase Center on the Riverfront, where families can play on the mega blow up obstacle courses and slides, soccer kick, Hooley ball and tee-ball. Check out the “Get up and Move Stage” with programs every hour. Move to the sounds of local entertainment. There will be food, beverages and snacks available for purchase. riverfrontfamilyfest.com Amazing Riverfront Wilmington Race Part of the 3rd Annual Riverfront Family Fest August 18, 12pm Families will race to complete the hunt, searching for clues, answers to riddles, collecting pictures and tokens to complete the map at participating attractions and businesses on Riverfront Wilmington. Families of 3 or more will use their skill to win great prizes including the grand prize trip–four round-trip Amtrak tickets to Baltimore, with hotel stay included! Chase Center riverfrontfamilyfest.com 7th Tour de Lance Run/Walk August 22, 6:30pm Benefits the Lance Armstrong Foundation, Cancer Care Connection, and Gift of Life Donor program. Registration begins at 5pm. Dravo Plaza races2run.com August Quarterly August 25, 12:30-6pm August 26, 12-6pm Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park Christina River Safari August 25, 1 – 3pm Cruise Wilmington’s rivers on a pontoon boat and search for wildlife. Use binoculars to identify birds, try your luck at fishing with a cast net, and spy basking turtles. How many species of riverside animals can we find? The results of the cruise will be posted on the DNS blog, so keep your eyes peeled! DuPont Environmental Education Center riverfrontwilm.com Blue Rocks Vs. Myrtle Beach Pelicans August 27-30 Frawley Stadium Please visit: bluerocks.com for more information on game times and promotions.
August 2012
7/24/12 5:33 PM
By Matt Amis
Gemma and Jack Buckley have owned Ninth Street Book Shop for 35 years.
Ninth Street Moves to Market Street It’s a new look at a new location for Wilmington’s By Matt Amis
G
emma and Jack Buckley were on the brink. After 35 years of running their beloved Ninth Street Book Shop in downtown Wilmington, “We were about two weeks away from announcing we were retiring,” Jack Buckley says. “We had been looking for a new place for two years, and frankly, we were ready to close up and call it a day.” Then the Buckleys were approached by representatives from the development firm Buccini/Pollin Group, who presented them with an opportunity to relocate to a building the firm owned on Market Street. “As soon as relocation became a possibility, it just kept sounding better and better,” Jack says. In the spring, extensive renovations unfolded at 730 N. Market St., the former site of Genelle’s Café. And the Buckleys, along with a crew of volunteers, a pick-up truck, and an army of hand carts, relocated their entire operation in about 10 days. “We just started hauling shelves and books, a lot of the time right down Market Street at 5:30 in the morning,” Jack says. “We did have a truck, but I’d say the majority of the store came via little hand trucks, one piece at a time.”
The brand new, back-from-the brink Ninth Street Book Shop re-opened on Monday, June 18. But one small issue remained: It wasn’t on Ninth Street anymore. Jack suggested they change the name to the Eighth Street Book Shop (the new location is at Eighth and Market streets), but Gemma sensed their customers’ deep connection with the name, and thought it should remain as it had been since 1983. The store’s history actually began in 1977. That’s when the Buckleys, both former teachers, purchased the Paperbook Gallery near the corner of Wilmington’s Ninth and Orange streets. For a period, they sold both books and potted plants out of the shop as they slyly attempted a name-change by printing two-sided bookmarks with “Paperbook Gallery” on one side and “Ninth Street Book Shop” on the other. Six years later, they relocated to Ninth Street. Since then, the store has become a neighborhood landmark, endearing itself to Wilmington bookworms thanks to its impressive selection and personalized attention from the owners. A new name would almost seem like sacrilege. “It’s how we’re identified,” Gemma says. “A lot of people feel ownership over this place besides us.” The Buckleys put the decision to a customer vote, and a ballot box inside the shop revealed an overwhelming verdict: keep the old name. More than 400 customers voted. “It was something like a three-to-one margin,” Jack says with a laugh. “It was pretty bad.” Their name (and iconic lamppost logo) reinstalled, the couple collaborated with Buccini/Pollin designer Sarah Lamb to create a bright, cozy and modern-looking storefront that pays homage to the area’s history. There are exposed brick walls, and natural light
shining through bold, wall-length windows. “Very sharp,” Jack says. A few hanging photos chronicle Market Street history. A corner for children’s books is awash in oranges, yellows and greens, with ornate hanging lamps. “It’s bright, it’s not overbearing,” Jack says. “Perfect for a bookstore.” Ninth Street has been the perfect bookstore for its loyal customers, whether they’re dropping in to browse the shelves, grabbing a summer reading book, or picking up a best-seller, like 50 Shades of Gray. (“Those runaway hits do help,” Gemma says.) The Buckleys credit their customers for helping the store survive lean times. “We’ve been at this long enough to know we’re not going to get rich doing it,” she says. “But it’s an avocation as much as it’s a job.” The store survived major changes in the industry, including discount outlets like Books-A-Million and Encore Books, big-box stores like Borders and Barnes & Noble, and online retailers and the advent of digital readers. But the Buckleys endured, thanks in no small part to their affable, personal interface with customers, and plenty of know-how. “Books are a very personal business,” Jack says. “We know our customers’ likes and dislikes and we buy specifically for them. “We know so many people. There are something like 6,000 to 7,000 people in our customer base that we think of as frequent buyers. You know, we still are the bookstore for the people in this city.” The Buckleys hope to remain active at Ninth Street Book Shop for another five to 10 years. Along with their new modern space, the couple is developing their first website, which will enable online browsing and ordering. They’ve also ramped up their Facebook presence—their page kept customers abreast of construction with pictures and videos. That the shop has survived is a victory for loyal fans. “Most cities this size don’t have a bookstore like this,” Jack says. “But we didn’t want to give it up, and our customers certainly didn’t either.”
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7/25/2012 2:00:15 PM
CITY NOTES DART Changes Trolley and Route 12 Routes The Wilmington Trolley serves Route 32 and provides a little extra character to our downtown by replicating a turn-of-the20th-century streetcar. While you may have noticed the trolley as it travels down Market Street, have you ever taken a ride on it? Now is your chance. In mid-July DART bus route changes took effect and there are two important changes that you should take advantage of, particularly if you’re not already a public transportation user. First, the Trolley will now have shorter head-way times—only 10 minutes! You can easily get from one end of Market Street to the other on your lunch break. Everyone who works in Downtown Wilmington can now jump aboard. If you work on 12th Street, you can ride the trolley down to the 200 block for lunch at Zaikka Indian Grill or pick up a bouquet of flowers from Bloomsberry
14 . CITY NOTES
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Flowers. You’ll be able to make the roundtrip during your lunch hour. Another major difference in the Trolley route is that it will no longer go to the Riverfront area. It will make its final stop at the AMTRAK Station. Besides the Trolley route changes, the Route 12, which does go to the Riverfront, will now feature later hours. If you have ever wanted to ride the bus to go to dinner at Ubon or stroll the Riverwalk, now you can. And in a few months you’ll also be able to go to the new IMAX Theater, which is expected to open by the end of 2012. Now all of that is available by bus with the Route 12 late night service. Learn about all the bus changes and schedules at dartfirststate.com.
AUGUST 2012
7/24/12 5:39 PM
Wilmington Renaissance Corporation •
WRC News
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Mark Your Calendar for IN Week
IN Wilmington Week is coming! This inaugural event will offer a wide array of programming that includes diverse organizations in the city. Many restaurants, arts and entertainment venues, and organizations will showcase the vibrancy of the city. Mark your calendars now for Sept. 2229. With the Fringe Festival, special IN Week discounts and promotions, concerts and other activities, Wilmington will be alive with fun for all. Whether you work here, live here, or are just visiting, IN Wilmington Week will display the unique features of the city. Check out all that’s “IN” at inwilmingtonde.com.
Uschy’s Cafe Opens on Market Street
Got a hankering for bratwurst or schnitzel? How about some German potato salad? If you’re a fan of German fare, we’ve got good news for you. New to Downtown is Uschy’s Café, located at 913 N. Market St. It features modern German cuisine and catering menus, and owner Ursula Roehm will greet you with a smile and encourage you to try one of the restaurant’s amazing German bakery items. Take out, sit down, catering, outdoor seating and Wi-Fi are all featured at Uschy’s. Call 654-9131 for more information and keep an eye on Facebook and Twitter for updates.
t’s hard to believe how quickly the summer is flying by and that August is already here. Before we know it, school will be back in session and those lazy days of summer will be gone. But with summer still in full swing, there’s still plenty to do in Wilmington this month – especially if live music is what you’re seeking. If you’re looking to duck out of your office for a few minutes and enjoy the summer weather, why not take in the IN the Park Summer Lunchtime Concert Series. Hosted by the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, concerts take place every Friday in HB DuPont Park from noon to 1:30 p.m. through August. Located on West Street between 10th and 11th, this is a great park with lots of shade and a beautiful fountain. Check out www.facebook.com/InTheParkLunchtimeConcerts for more information. If an after-work outdoor concert series is more your speed, stop by the Shipyard Summer Concert Series on the Wilmington Riverfront. Every Thursday evening through Aug. 30, the Riverfront’s DRAVO Plaza comes alive with foot-stomping music for all ages. Concerts start at 7 and attendees should bring their own seating. You can bring a picnic dinner or pick up dinner to go at any of the riverfront restaurants, including Molly’s, Timothy’s and Ubon in the Shipyard Shops. Go to www.riverfrontwilm.com for more information. If a whole weekend of live blues music sounds like what you’re looking for, don’t miss the Riverfront Blues Festival. This three-day event will take place at Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park from Friday, Aug. 3 through Sunday, Aug. 5. For information on artists, the schedule, parking, how to purchase tickets and more, visit www.inwilmingtonde.com. This is only a sampling of all the fun that’s happening in Wilmington this month. Be sure to stay up on everything that’s going on by visiting www. inwilmingtonde.com or sign up for WRC’s weekly Downtown News by visiting www.downtownwilmington.com. See you around town!
Staff Picks Every month we feature a few of the staff’s favorite things that are happening in the city. Our favorites for July include (in no particular order): 1. “Spielberg Under the Stars,” a film series featuring all of Steven Spielberg’s classics, is on the roof of the ShopRite on the Riverfront every Tuesday night in August. Check out theatren. org or www.facebook.com/UnderTheStarsRooftopMovies for more info. 2. The Delaware Art Museum has launched “Art Is Everywhere,” a pop-up art campaign that will use main streets and landmark outdoor spaces across the state as its gallery space. Visit delart.org for locations and information. 3. The Delaware College of Art & Design’s new student housing building will open on Market Street later this month in the 700 block. See dcad.edu for more info.
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