More than 30 reasons to experience the local music s
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Gerald duPhily • jduphily@tsnpub.com
DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS
Jim Miller • jmiller@tsnpub.com
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
Bob Yearick • ryearick@comcast.net
CREATIVE DIRECTOR & PRODUCTION MANAGER
Matthew Loeb, Catalyst Visuals, LLC
DIGITAL SERVICES DIRECTOR Michael O’Brian
DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL PROJECTS Amy Watson Bish
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Adriana Camacho-Church, David Ferguson, Mark Fields, Pam George, Roger Hillis, Catherine Kempista, Michelle Kramer-Fitzgerald, Larry Nagengast, Ken Mammarella, Mary Ellen Mitchell, Matt Morrissette, Kevin Noonan, Bob Yearick
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jim Coarse, Justin Heyes and Joe del Tufo/Moonloop Photography, Lindsay Rudney duPhily, Joe Hoddinott, Matthew Loeb,
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THE WAR On Words
A monthly column in which we attempt, however futilely, to defend the English language
WHERE ARE THE EDITORS?
• Austin Curtright, in USA TODAY: “ e next Winter Games is only 18 months away, as they will be held from Feb. 6 to 22 in 2026.” He got the verb wrong but the pronoun right in the same sentence.
• Similarly, Curtright’s colleague, Tyler Dragon, wrote this about discus champion Valarie Allman: “She's the rst American women to win two gold medals in the women’s discus,” thus using women incorrectly and correctly in the same sentence.
• From a review of e Instigators, the Apple TV+ lm with Matt Damon and Casey A eck, in USA TODAY: “ e mayor is frantically trying to break into a safe that harbors his elicit gains...” at should be illicit, of course. is mix-up occurs all too often. Elicit means to draw out or extract. E.g., “the detective elicited a confession from the suspect.” Illicit means illegal.
• Reader Joan Burke submits an online story from Getty Images about Jared Cooper, who got stuck 450 feet above the ground when his window-washing equipment jammed while he was working on a building in Mobile, Ala. e story noted that “Cooper wasn't phased after getting stuck and said he planned to go to work [the next day].” at would be fazed
• Larry Hamermesh submits this from Wdel.com and reporter Sean Greene: “Debris cascading down the creek, which was more like a raging rapid that day, struck the 120-year-old bridge, deeming it unsafe.” Says Larry: “ at debris was quite discerning.” Deem means to judge or view in a speci c way. Rendering or making would’ve been appropriate in this case.
• Illinois reader Judy Tribbey sends this notice from her local library: “ is morning, the Morton Grove Chamber of Commerce moderated a panel of your elected o cials who gave updates on projects e ecting Illinois.” Remember, e ect is almost always a noun, while a ect is usually a verb. e correct word in this case: a ecting.
• Rob Tornoe, in e Inky: “‘It had a big impact on my life, and I’m digging into it in an attempt to nally nd out who was the murder,’ [Mike] Missanelli told e Inquirer.” Mike’s a smart guy, so I’m pretty sure he said murderer.
Word Term of the Month
The Gish gallop is a rhetorical technique in which a person in a debate attempts to overwhelm an opponent by abandoning formal debating principles, providing an excessive number of arguments with no regard for the accuracy or strength of those arguments and that are impossible to address adequately in the time allotted. The term was coined in 1994 by anthropologist Eugenie Scott, who named it after American creationist Duane Gish. Scott argued that Gish used the technique frequently when challenging the scientific fact of evolution.
By Bob Yearick
Apologies, but since we’re in the midst of a heated presidential race, this month’s column contains a few political items.
• Let’s start with Fox News commentator Jesse Watters, who (naturally) downplayed the enthusiasm at the Democratic National Convention: “They weren’t that jubU-lant .” Yo, Jesse, the word is pronounced jub-a-lant .
POSSESSIVE POLITICS
The Harris-Walz Democratic ticket has caused much internet discussion about how to form the possessive, the plural, and the plural possessive of both surnames. Here’s a primer.
HARRIS
Possessive: Harris’ (Associated Press style — followed here at O&A); Harris’s (New York Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, and most English textbooks). So, there is no hard and fast rule; the important thing is to be consistent.
Plural: Harrises
Plural possessive: Harrises’ WALZ
Possessive: There’s nothing special about a word ending in z, so simply add an apostrophe and s: Walz’s . MerriamWebster, however, declares that you may add just an apostrophe, but admits that ’s is the more common choice.
Plural: Walzes
Plural possessive: Walzes’
LITERALLY OF THE MONTH
Will Bunch dropped the word twice within the first two paragraphs of his column in the Sunday Philadelphia Inquirer . He wrote that one particular point of disagreement between the two vice presidential candidates “could literally redefine the American dream.” A paragraph later, he asserted that JD Vance “rose in the MAGA GOP by literally declaring U.S. universities ‘the enemy.’” Will should back off this intensifier just a bit.
the rule against inserting apostrophes in plurals.
NEED A SPEAKER FOR YOUR ORGANIZATION, ON A FUN AND INFORMATIVE DISCUSSION OF GRAMMAR?
Contact ryearick@comcast.net for more information.
Buy The War on Words book at the Hockessin BookShelf, at Huxley & Hiro Booksellers on Market Street, or on Amazon. Or email me at ryearick@comcast.net.
Wilmington University School of Law Throws Its First Barristers Ball
Students and faculty celebrated the successes of WilmU Law’s inaugural class.
Completing the first year of law school calls for a celebration, and that accomplishment feels even sweeter for Wilmington University School of Law’s inaugural class. To mark the occasion, students organized WilmU’s first Barristers Ball, an endof-year tradition at law schools around the country.
“For future generations to come, I want the Barristers Ball to welcome them,” says Alynna Wilson, a correctional counselor and Juris Doctor candidate. “I want the next generation to participate, and I want them to know law school can be fun.”
She co-chaired WilmU’s Barristers Ball this spring with fellow law student Hannah Goldston.
“It felt like a family gathering,” Goldston says. “It was a nice time to relax and dress up.”
Although they’d never planned an event like this before, it went off without a hitch thanks to their hard work and help from Professor Nicole Mozee, J.D. — a 2023 Delaware Today Top Lawyer for Civil Rights and the School of Law’s Student Bar Association adviser — and Taylor Warrington-Purcell, a WilmU graduate and the School of Law’s administrative coordinator.
“I was very, very proud of the dedication of the co-chairs, Hannah and Alynna,” says Professor Mozee, who describes the Barristers Ball as an opportunity for students to “take a moment and decompress from the rigor of law school and just enjoy themselves.”
WilmU green was the color of the evening. Held on campus, the party included dinner, dancing and plenty of laughs.
“Everyone was very grateful for it,” says Professor Mozee, herself included.
The WilmU Law community now has its sights firmly fixed on the 2024-2025 school year, which includes welcoming a new set of students and two new professors, Alisa Klein, J.D., and Kimberly Richardson, J.D.
Meanwhile, construction continues at WilmU’s Brandywine location, where a new 52,000-square-foot Law School Building and 85,000-square-foot Convocation Center are being built. These new additions are slated for completion in 2025.
To learn more about Wilmington University School of Law, its leadership, faculty and Juris Doctor programs, please visit law.wilmu.edu
SOMETHING EXTRAORDINARY IN LEGAL EDUCATION
FYI
Things Worth Knowing
HISTORIC FARMHOUSE TRANSFORMED INTO ARTS CENTER
IIt’s our annual look at the local music scene and we’ve hidden vinyl records on four pages in this issue (this page doesn’t count). Tell us what four pages we’ve hidden the vinyl and you could win free lunch. Email your answers to Contact@TSNPub.com with the subject line: I Found The Music! Three winners will be selected from those who answer correctly by October 18. Congratulations to last month’s winners — Robin Lindemann, William Hoffman, Carla Dinsmore — who found the tickets on pages 15, 24, 35, 59.
SOn 2015, a group of artists and skilled professionals saved Jester Farmhouse, a preCivil War residence, from demolition to transform it into a creative hub. On Oct. 5, Brandywine Hundred’s only nonprofit arts center, Jester Artspace, will welcome the public for a housewarming, and will feature a ribbon-cutting and the opening of Volunteers , an exhibition dedicated to those who brought the space to life. There will also be demonstrations in plein air painting, linocut printing, oil painting, and the Urban sketching movement, as well as art from Jester volunteers available for purchase. The event is free and open to the public. Visit JesterArtspace.org.
THE ULTIMATE TUG OF WAR
West End Neighborhood House (WENH) hosts its inaugural Fire Truck Pull on Oct. 26 at the Daniel S. Frawley Stadium on the Wilmington Riverfront. Teams of eight will compete for the fastest pull of a 35,000-pound re truck. To participate, teams need to raise or pay $500 by Oct. 18, and participants must be 18 years or older. e day will also include vendors, a moon bounce, food trucks, and more fun for the whole family. Proceeds bene t WENH and Delaware youth. Visit Bit.ly/DEPulls4Youth.
n Saturday, Oct. 12, cyclists can visit four historic river towns during a one-ofa-kind bike ride. e 11th annual River Towns Ride challenges you to ride for a gold medal by visiting all four river towns (62 miles) or take one of the event’s shorter routes and earn a bronze or silver medal for distance completed. Stops include historic Chesapeake City, Historic Delaware City, Historic New Castle and Wilmington Riverfront. Visit RiverTownsRide.com.
oDel Concepts has announced that they will bring their popular NY-style bagels to Middletown soon. Surf Bagel’s scratch-made bagels have been a favorite of beach residents and visitors since opening its rst location in 2004 in Lewes (founders Dave and Tom Vitella sold the enterprise to SoDel Concepts in 2021). Since 2016, the restaurant group has added locations in Rehoboth, Milford, and Long Neck. e newest site will be in the Dove Run Shopping Center in a spot that was previously leased to Friendly’s. Renovations are underway and an opening date will be announced. Visit SurfBagel.com.
DELAWARE RESTAURATEURS RECOGNIZED FOR CONTRIBUTIONS
On Oct. 7, the Delaware Restaurant Association will host the 22nd Restaurant Industry Cornerstone Awards to recognize the contributions of the state’s restaurateurs and how they enrich communities, the local economy, and offer career opportunities to all. Those being honored this year at Lighthouse Cove Events Center (Dewey Beach) include: Mrs. Robino’s; Second Block Hospitality (Bodhi Kitchen, Drift Seafood & Raw Bar, The Pines); Matt Kern (One Coastal); Katie Kutler (kaffe KARMA); and Hank Rosenberg (COO Hospitality, Harrington Raceway & Casino). Visit DelawareRestaurant.org.
VOLUNTEER BREWING WINS GOLD
VDIAMOND STATE BLACK FILM FESTIVAL
From Oct. 10-13, the 3rd Annual Diamond State Black Film Festival will showcase current and emerging film talent at Theatre N. The four-day festival is the only one of its kind in the state and features film screenings, artist talkbacks, workshops, receptions, and an award presentation. The films presented will include shorts, narratives, documentaries, and a college category. Visit DiamondStateBFF.com.
DELAWARE PARK CASINO DOUBLES DOWN ON OFFERINGS
Dolunteer Brewing is buzzing after winning Gold for their Orange Blossom Honey Wheat at the Annual Honey Beer Competition recently. Hosted by the National Honey Board, the competition featured 12 beer-style categories, a cider, hard seltzer and design category, with more than 200 beers entered from across the country. The small Middletown craft brewery exclusively brews with grain malted in Southern Delaware and, in some cases, grown instate. Their winning light, golden wheat ale is brewed with local honey from Blackbird Creek Apiary and has been brewed more than any other Volunteer beer since opening in 2017. Visit VolunteerBrewing.com.
RESIDENCY PROGRAM FOR LOCAL ARTISTS LAUNCHED
Wilmington Alliance and The Delaware Contemporary have announced a collaboration to launch the “Full Circle” dual-residency program designed to provide four local underrepresented artists with opportunities for professional development and community-led experiences. The artists will have access to studio space and mentorship at both the art museum, located on the Wilmington Riverfront, and the Alliance’s Art O Mat, located in West Center City. Those chosen will play a role in bridging the gap between emerging artists and the local community. To learn more, visit WilmingtonAlliance.org or DeContemporary.org.
elaware Park Casino kicks off October with the opening of its new pop-up bar, The Boo! Bar at LIT. On Friday and Saturday nights from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m., the bar will serve up specialty themed cocktails and DJ entertainment for a ghoulishly good time. While there, enjoy a meal at the new High Steaks Restaurant (previously 1937 Brewing Company), which promises an “exceptional fusion of craft beers and premium steakhouse cuisine in an inviting atmosphere,” according to a post on X (formerly Twitter). The new menu features appetizers such as a “Char-Brew-Terie Board” that includes a mega Bavarian pretzel accompanied by meats, cheeses and more, and several cuts of beef, each “kissed” with their beer steak sauce and seasoned with their own beer salt. Visit DelawarePark.com.
BURGERS BY WILDWICH OPENS IN CLAYMONT
Burgers by Wildwich was born amid the pandemic and the food truck quickly drew a following. Four years later, the truck is gone, and a stand-alone eatery has opened to the delight of its fans. The new shop is at 2616 Philadelphia Pike in Claymont and serves up everything you love from the truck: smashburgers topped with toppings such as drunken bacon jam, “hellish relish,” and sauces with names like “Fetch” and “Dragon”; Icelandic-style hot dogs; french fries topped multiple ways; and their famous scratch-made strawberry lemonade. Burgers by Wildwich is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Visit Wildwich.com.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4
5pm Start
Next Art Loop: NOVEMBER 1, 2024
DOWNTOWN
2nd & LOMA
211 N. Market Street
655-0124 • 2ndandloma.com
Artist: Happy Gatherings by Denise Palestini Pino
Chris White Gallery
701 N. Shipley Street
475-0998 • chriswhitegallery.com
Artists: Awakening Group Show
City of Wilmington’s Redding Gallery
800 N. French Street 576-2100 cityfestwilm.com/redding-gallery
Exhibit: Celebration of Creativity
Gallery at Grace Church 900 N. Washington Street 655-8847
Artist: New Beginnings by Andy Vible
Huxley and Hiro Booksellers
419 N. Market Street (971) 386-8294
Artist: Shadows & Lights by Patrick Kawka
John William Gallery 1313 N. Market Street 585-317-5409 • johnwilliamgallery.com
Artists: Interwoven: Yonnie McFly, Samara Weaver, Tish Williams
Mezzanine Gallery 820 N. French Street 577-8278 • arts.delaware.gov
Exhibit: Theater of the Macabre: A group exhibition of darkly enchanting art
Finist & The Owl 811 Brandywine Boulevard 786-228-6638
Artist: Kim Lucas with Whimsical Connections with Nature
by
Art Loop Wilmington .org
The Hometown Hero Ultimate
Mark Rogers gives local singers, songwriters and musicians a place to be heard
Mark Rogers has devoted the past 20 years to assiduously promoting Delaware Valley artists and their music through his Hometown Heroes radio show.
According to many of the the artists, the ultimate hometown hero is Rogers himself. In addition to devoting his time, energy, and passion to Hometown Heroes week-in and weekout, he organizes and hosts The Homey Awards — an annual awards show honoring the best in local music — all while managing a full-time job writing legal journals for LexisNexis.
By Mary Ellen Mitchell >
Mark Rogers (front, right) at The Queen with 2023 Homey Awards winners. Photo by Nathalie Antonov
Every Sunday from 7 to 9 p.m., approximately 10,000 listeners tune in to hear original songs covering a broad range of genres, performed by artists from what Rogers dubs, “ e Quad-State Area,” which includes Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
“Whatever kind of music you like, you can nd it in the local scene,” he says.
roughout the week, Rogers considers submissions from local artists to determine which songs to play on Sunday night, and he spends Sunday afternoons preparing for the show.
“I receive so much diverse, high-quality music on a daily basis, that it’s di cult to t in a two-hour window,” he says. “I always have songs to carry over to the following Sunday night. It’s a great problem to have.”
e show features recorded tracks and, frequently, live, in-studio performances, which add an element of excitement and intrigue. Rogers’ warm, cheerful demeanor complements the music.
He often shares the mic with a guest, takes questions and comments from fans, and conducts polls to gather listener-recommended songs for play on special episodes,
which adds to the fun.
Hometown Heroes is broadcast from the WMHS (88.1 FM) radio station at omas McKean High School in Pike Creek, where it’s simulcast through WDDE (91.1 FM), an NPR-member station in Dover at Delaware State University, and WMPH (91.7 FM) in Wilmington, at Mount Pleasant High School. e show is also available to livestream at DelawarePublic.org.
ose who missed the show (or want to hear it again) can stream a rebroadcast on Wednesdays at 9 p.m. at DelawarePublic.org, or tune the radio dial to WCHE (95.3 FM and 1520 AM) in West Chester, Pa., on ursdays at 3 p.m. and Saturdays at 8 p.m.
A LIFELONG PASSION FOR MUSIC
"I developed an interest in music in my early teens. I was constantly listening to the radio, playing albums, and making playlists,” Rogers says. “I began attending concerts in college, and my interest grew from there to become a lifelong passion.”
Rogers got his start in radio through an internship at Wilmington’s WSTW while attending Temple University.
Mark Rogers says he receives so much high-quality local music he has difficulty fitting it all into his twohour show. Photo by Greg Boulden
After graduating from Eastern University, he went on to hold a variety of positions at the station, from advertising scheduler and marketing associate to morning show producer. He also co-hosted an ‘80s music show with DJ Phil Matthews, called e Saturday PM.
“My experience at WSTW helped pique my interest in local music, and once I discovered it, I was blown away by the depth of the talent,” he says. “I began attending more shows at local venues, and soon enough, I was hooked on the local music scene.”
In 2006, WSTW invited Rogers to host Hometown Heroes when the show’s creator and long-time host, “Johnny B.,” moved to a di erent city. Without missing a beat, Rogers hosted the show for 14 more years, until new station ownership canceled it in 2020, much to the shock and disappointment of legions of fans.
at’s when General Manager Pete Booker and (then) President Jane Vincent of Delaware Public Media stepped in and picked up the show. “When we heard Hometown Heroes was cancelled, we knew we had to bring it back,” Booker says.
“Music is about connections,” Rogers says. Indeed, the music he plays transforms and unites listeners from across the region.
“Mark has hundreds of amazing friendships that began with a connection through music,” Booker says. “No one has done more to support local artists and strengthen our local music community.
“Mark is a humble talent who accepts criticism and de ects praise,” Booker adds. “For him, it really is all about giving local artists a chance to connect with an eager audience.”
“As a musician myself,” Booker says, “I can attest that it’s an incredible feeling when you hear your song played on the radio for the rst time. It validates your hard work.”
One of Rogers’ close friends, acclaimed singer/ songwriter/musician John Faye, who grew up in Newark and attended the University of Delaware, has been part of the local and national music scene for 30 years. His memoir, e Yin and the Yang of It All, published last year, is an Amazon bestseller.
“Mark is one of the most genuine and kind people I know,” Faye says. “He works incredibly hard to ensure he’s behind the mic every Sunday night doing what he loves. I’m honored to call him my friend.”
Hometown Heroes is sponsored in part by the Delaware Division of the Arts, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts.
AN ORIGINAL HOMEY
“When I took over Hometown Heroes, my radio audience and I missed watching the Grammy Awards that rst year, due to the Sunday night time con ict,” Rogers says. “I felt as though we were missing out, so I came up with e Homeys as a fun, satirical take on e Grammys.”
anks to the work of local musician Joe Trainor and Gable Music Ventures, e Homeys have evolved over the years into a legitimate local music awards show, featuring live performances, award presentations, and statuettes for winners of categories that closely mirror those featured at e Grammys.
“ is area can be a tough nut to crack when trying to nd your place as an artist,” Faye says. “ e Homey Awards recognize and a rm the standout artists, which are nominated by Hometown Heroes listeners.”
“Wearing a tux, Mark kicks o the ceremony and assists the presenters and artists on stage,” Faye adds.
Local music fans look forward to the popular the show every year. “Artists are incredibly pumped when they’re nominated for a Homey Award,” Faye reveals.
THE MAN BEHIND THE MIC
Rogers is known for his dry wit that reliably puts a smile on the faces of family members, friends and listeners. In 2022, he was inducted into the Delaware Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. He’s a diehard Phillies fan and cat lover.
He also happens to have Parkinson’s Disease.
“I try to stay positive,” Rogers says. “My dad set a great example for me and my family when he courageously dealt with health challenges later in life. He was grateful and optimistic, so that’s what I also strive to be.”
In August, Rogers took a hiatus from Hometown Heroes and e Homey Awards to undergo a promising Parkinson’s treatment. In the meantime, his good friend, journalist and podcaster Greg Boulden, who also teaches Audio, Radio and TV Broadcast Engineering at McKean, is lling in as guest host.
Rogers and his team at Delaware Public Media plan to discuss new ideas for the show when he returns.
— Visit HometownHeroesMusic.com and Hometown Heroes Delaware Valley on Facebook.
October Events Worth Trying
From ghost tours and costumed parades to beer tastings and harvest festivals, here is a sampling of the fun fall events happening this month in the First State
By Amy Watson Bish
PARANORMAL ADVENTURE
Fridays & Saturdays, Oct. 4-26 | 6:30 & 9:30pm| Fort Delaware State Park, Delaware City
Kick off spooky season by joining Diamond State Ghost Investigators on a paranormal investigation of Fort Delaware, which served as a prison for captured Confederates during the Civil War. On this three-hour tour, participants will use electromagnetic field detectors and other devices to reveal ghostly activity. Visit DeStateParks.com/History/FortDelaware.
DELAWARE BEER FEST
Oct. 5 | 11am-8pm | Frawley Stadium, Wilmington
This event showcases a lineup of brews from national brands and local breweries such as Bellefonte Brewing and Big Oyster Brewery. Guests will also enjoy live music, food trucks and games, including Giant Jenga, corn hole, and Beer Fest Trivia. Visit DelawareBeerFest.com.
27TH ANNUAL KENNETT BREWFEST
Oct. 5 | 1:30-5pm | South Broad Street, Kennett Square
Hop over to Kennett for a 21+ event featuring 80+ breweries serving up samples of more than 175 beers. There will also be live music and food trucks. Admission is $65, with discounted tickets for designated drivers also available. The “Connoisseur Admission” gets you early entry, lunch from Talula’s Table, unlimited tastings, and voting rights to “Best of Connoisseur” Award. Visit KennettBrewfest.com.
e 200th anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette’s Farewell Tour in America makes a special stop in Delaware. Explore local Delaware sites that the American Revolutionary War general visited in 1824 and discover the life and legacy of the man who played a pivotal role in the founding of the nation. Delaware’s route includes the Robinson House (Claymont), Brandywine Village and Old Town Hall (Wilmington), and Amstel House and Jessop’s Tavern (Historic New Castle), and features such activities as tours and exhibits, guest speakers, colonial reenactors, live entertainment, and more. Visit Lafaye e200.org.
THE REVISIONISTS: A HAUNTED GOTHIC WALK AT ROCKWOOD
On this immersive, lamp-lit guided tour through Rockwood’s grounds, you’ll hear ve spine-tingling ghost stories from the last century — and you may even come across a troubled specter or two along the way. Get into the “spirit” and wear your Gothic garb, and if you need to settle your nerves, drinks will be available for adults in the speakeasy. ( is event is for ages 13 and up.) Visit PoplarHall.life.
If you just can’t get enough of ghost stories, then head over to Historic New Castle. ere, you’ll be taken to the legendary Amstel House by your guide to meet the “Woman in Blue,” and then walk the darkened cobblestone streets while listening to macabre tales that span the town’s 370-year history. Visit NewCastleHistory.org.
The Revisionists return to Rockwood Museum Oct. 11-26.
32ND ANNUAL APPLE SCRAPPLE FESTIVAL
Oct. 11 & 12 | Bridgeville is annual fall tradition welcomes thousands to the small town of Bridgeville to showcase Sussex County’s agri-business with — what else — apples and scrapple. Enjoy apple dumplings, scrapple sandwiches and other delicious delights, plus carnival rides, live music, an invitational scrapple sling, car show and much more. e fun starts at 4 p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m. on Saturday. Visit AppleScrapple.com.
SCHELLVILLE FALL HARVEST FEST
Oct. 12, 13 & 20 | 3-8pm | Schellville, Rehoboth
Schelleville’s signature fall festival is lled with fun for everyone — hayrides, pumpkin painting, scarecrow making, food trucks, local breweries, and more. Plus, you don’t have to wait for winter to enjoy their sled hill or skating rink — both will be open. Visit SchellBrothers.com.
THE GREAT PUMPKIN CARVE
Oct. 17-19 | Chadds Ford Historical Society, Chadds Ford is seasonal three-night tradition showcases more than 70 giant pumpkins carved and illuminated by local artists. Attendees can also enjoy a haunted trail, live music, food, and local craft beer and wine. Hours are ursday and Friday 4-9 p.m., and Saturday 3-9 p.m. Visit ChaddsFordHistory.org.
HAGLEY CRAFT FAIR
Oct. 19-20 | Hagley Museum & Library, Greenville
Now in its 46th year, this show features works in wood, leather, pottery, jewelry, metal and more by some of the nest artisans from the Mid-Atlantic area, along with a specialty food market. Show hours are Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Visit Hagley.org.
e Brandywine Zoo invites all to come in costume and visit the animals at this “merry, not scary” Halloween event, which also features activities and treats (no tricks!). Visit BrandywineZoo.org.
6TH ANNUAL HALLOWEEN GHOST SHIP
Oct. 19 | noon-4pm | Copeland Maritime Center at the Kalmar Nyckel Shipyard, Wilmington
Celebrate Halloween with a maritime twist. All ages are invited to come dressed in costume and enjoy a variety of activities including deck tours of the Kalmar Nyckel, pumpkin painting, Halloween-themed crafts and more. Visit KalmarNyckel.org.
Gerald Charles Dickens, actor and great-greatgrandson of Charles Dickens, returns to Winterthur to perform two of the author’s tales of terror, “Sikes & Nancy” and “Captain Murderer.” Visit Winterthur.org.
is annual family-friendly Halloween celebration is three days of fun. e weekend kicks o on Friday with the iconic Sea Witch Balloon making its grand entrance ahead of a parade of oats and hundreds costumed participants, and continues through Sunday with a costumed dog parade, trick-ortreating, live music, the Sea Witch 5K Run and more. Visit Beach-Fun.com.
Sea Witch Festival is one of Rehoboth Beach's biggest weekends of the year.
Schellville's Fall Harvest Fest has become a Sussex County tradition.
Live & Local
Listen up… Things might be better than you think in the local music landscape.
Sure, a few notable live music joints have closed the past few years, but we were able to find plenty to get excited about this season in the area music scene.
So, without further ado, here’s the latest scoop on the bands, venues, events, shops and mega music fans that make this area what it is!
Hall-of-Fame Bullets
Every Thursday at Gallucio’s
Last month, Kid Davis and the Bullets rocked the Smyrna Opera House during their induction into the Delaware Rock & Roll Society’s Hall of Fame.
If you missed it, don’t sweat it — you can catch the Bullets every Thursday night tearing up at Gallucio’s, with their mix of rockbility and Americana.
In addition to dozens of originals the band has written over three decades, they also do wild rock-roots versions of Pink Floyd, The Who and David Bowie on occasion. Like catching Love Seed Mama Jump at The Rusty Rudder, a Bullets show is a Delaware musical rite of passage.
— More at KidDavisAndTheBullets.com.
TreeWalker Releases "Cardinals"
Following up on the release of their single “Watch It Leave” in September, TreeWalker offers a second treat with “Cardinals” this month.
“It’s a song we started writing pre-COVID but never finished until recently,” says TreeWalker bassist, Dave Filiaggi.
On September 28, TreeWalker headlined Hot Jam at the Center for the Creative Arts in Yorklyn, but will look to hibernate in the studio this winter.
“Our plan after that is to spend the remainder of the fall writing some additional songs, record them over the winter, and release them collectively with the four singles from this year as a full album,” Filiaggi says. “We’ll pick up on shows in Spring 2025.”
“Cardinals” and “Watch It Leave” are available on all digital platforms.
Local Musicians Jam Wednesday Nights at Iconz
Genesis Z and Lucky Jefferson host the Live Band Open-Mic everyone Wednesday night at Iconz Bar & Venue. The music-centric establishment has rearranged the room: widening the stage and expanding the dance floor since the days when it was known as Oddity Bar.
“Wednesday nights by far are our most signature night,” says Iconz coowner Manny Hernandez. “On any given Wednesday, you can catch the guitar player from your favorite local rock band on stage with your favorite local R&B singer.
“ You can bring and instrument, just your voice, or just come for the vibes.”
Iconz Bar & Venue is located in Wilmington at 500 Greenhill Avenue.
A Ladybug Love Letter from France
On May 31, thousands of music fans and dozens of female musical performers flocked to Wilmington’s Market Street for the annual Ladybug Music Festival, a celebration of women in music. One of those musicians, Laura Bourgeois, traveled from France.
Turns out, the folk/pop artist fell in love while she was here — with Wilmington.
“I am very happy I got to be a part of Ladybug Music Festival and its 100% female line-up, writes Bourgeois. “We need more women on stage, and this event matters.
“A lot can also be said about the nice places of the city I was officially taken to see: the Riverfront, The Grand, Logan House, among others.
“But it’s also the informal I was fascinated by… Thinking back, I realize that what I’m taking home with me is not only memories from the one-day festival that got me to fly overseas in the first place, nor the official city tour I was offered. I think it’s, most importantly, the greater sense of community I got to appreciate thanks to the inhabitants of Wilmington.”
Aw shucks, we are blushing!
— More at SheIsTheMusic.org/profile/LauraBourgeois.
An Eclectic October at Arden Gild Hall
Arden’s independent music venue has been bringing renowned artists to the area for more than a quarter century — from folk to rock and everything in between. On Friday, Oct. 4, Brooklyn-based Kaleta & Super Yamba Band will have people on their feet dancing to their hot afrobeats, followed by blues-rock group Danielle Nicole Band on Oct. 10. JD Simo & Luther Dickinson will play a powerful night of blues on Oct. 25. Oct. 12 will be a special evening of cultural delights: a performance by Argentinian jazz artist Darío Acosta Teich paired with Argentinian wines poured by Swigg. Prior to the show, guests can enjoy a curated dinner of Argentinian dishes (dinner requires a separate reservation in advance).
— More at ArdenConcerts.com.
Live & Local
Finnegan’s to Make It a Funky and Fun Thanksgiving
Finnegan’s Pub is offering a couple of ways to dance away some of the hundreds of calories music fans will pack in over Thanksgiving.
On the night of Black Friday, What The Funk will serve their groovefriendly fare, promising to pack the dance floor as usual.
Then on Saturday, November 30, Dickens & Ballsworth brings their lively mix of classic rock and ‘80s pop to the stage. The five-piece will follow up that show playing the fourth Saturday of every month.
— More info at Finnegans302.com.
J.D. Webb Spins Spooky Halloween Magic
Looking for an entertaining way to get into the Halloween spirit without having to go door to door posing as someone from a Harry Potter movie? Then hit Gallucio’s on Friday, October 25 when J.D. Webb & The Good God Damn cast a “spell” of a good time during their Halloween Show.
Fresh off the band’s energetic performance at The Odessa Brewfest last month, the band will play a mix of covers and originals, including those from J.D. Webb’s 2023 EP release Royal St. Ann Burgandy
— More at JDWebbMusic.weebly.com.
Gretchen Emery Band Rocks Market Street
The Gretchen Emery Band will double-down in downtown this month starting Wednesday, October 9, with an acoustic duo show The Knight’s Bar at The Queen starting at 5:30 p.m.
The band follows that show with a breast cancer awareness event, Pink Gumbo 4, at the Wilmington Public Library on Saturday, October 26.
— More at GretchenEmery.com.
Wilmington Brew Works & The Queen
WBW continues its partnership with The Queen for the “Live & Local” series featuring local, live music acts in the beer garden Friday evenings from 6:30-9:00 p.m. In case of inclement weather — or chilly temps — the show will move inside the taproom. October features Ed Dwornik (10/4), Sharon & Q (10/11), Kris V & Richie (10/18), and Lucy & Patrick (10/25). In November, catch Jared Obstfeld (11/1), Kat Rivers (11/8), Jenni Schick (11/15), The Knotty G’s (11/22), and Scott Mathews (11/29).
— WilmingtonBrewWorks.com.
John Faye Plays “The Long Game” in December
A musician with more than 15 releases to his name, John Faye is about to add one more to the list. This December, Faye will roll out The Long Game — his first full-length release since his 2025 album Meddling Kid , on which he played every instrument.
The musician says creating the new album was a process of “rediscovering” his musical voice after the longest sabbatical of his three-decade career.
Through the arc of The Long Game , Faye plays the weary Gen X’er confronting concerns no Reagan-era latchkey kid could have predicted: social media addiction, seasonal depression, and the musical relevance (or lack thereof) of a vinyl record kid in a Spotify world.
“In a lot of these songs,” Faye adds, “if I’m addressing you, I’m really talking to myself in my own head.”
Faye will perform The Long Game in its entirety for an album-release show on Thursday, December 26 at Ardmore Music Hall, along with sets from Jealousy Curve and The MAKS.
— More at JohnFaye.com.
Wasted Arrows Plays Café Nola
Following the single, “There’s A Ghost,” which they released over the summer, Wasted Arrows will perform at Café Nola in Frederick, Md.
Look for the band to play heartfelt originals from their 2023 EP, Wharfman’s Blues. It’s an apt title, as band leader David Norbut’s day career sees him working the Port of Wilmington
— More at WastedArrows.Bandcamp.com.
Some "Sweet" Music at The Grand
For more than 150 years, Market Street’s iconic concert hall has been entertaining audiences in its three venues (Copeland Hall, that baby Grand, and The Playhouse on Rodney Square) with performances by world-class artists from around the globe. October welcomes NPR’s Ari Shapiro in an evening of songs and stories (10/5), The Rock Orchestra playing the hits of Chicago (10/12), alt-pop rocker Matthew Sweet (10/17), guitarist Richie Kotzen (10/19), and Friends of the Brothers, a tribute to The Allman Brothers Band (10/25). And you don’t want to miss the legendary Dionne Warwick (11/9), Old Crow Medicine Show (11/10), or Kool & the Gang, who will headline the 48th Grand Gala on Dec. 7.
— More at TheGrandWilmington.org.
TyFest Returns to Theatre N
After a successful debut last year, TyFest comes back with a sequel on Saturday, October 19 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Theatre N in Wilmington.
The event will open with a meditation/affirmation from Simply Sound Vibrations followed by live performances from The Last Word, Grace Vonderkuhn (solo), Sug Daniels, and the event’s creator, Ty Mathis, who will also be premiering a new song. e all-ages show will also feature live painting and close with an open jam session.
— More at TheatreN.com.
Live & Local
Music's Brewing at Bellefonte Brewing Company
Delaware’s nano brewery has two locations to enjoy everything from live music to cornhole leagues. The Old Capitol Trail location features acoustic acts on Thursday evenings at 7 p.m. including Genesis Z (10/3), Andy Shields (10/10), and Geoffrey Giordano (10/17), and Tim Jaudon (10/24). On Sept. 26, the hosts its annual Halloween costume party, with DE Mex Foods slinging the grub and The Yellowstoners playing the tunes. Both locations also offer Music Bingo: every other Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Old Capitol Trail, and the first and third Wednesday of each month at Marsh Road, also at 7 p.m.
— More info at BellefonteBrewingCompany.com.
A Seed of Love Seed Blossoms in Full
Liam Wiedmann — son of Love Seed Mama Jump bassist, Pete Wiedmann — is proving that the apple doesn’t rock-and-roll too far from the tree. Both musicians started playing bars in college.
In recent years, the younger Wiedmann has sat in on occasion with his father and Love Seed and also the band Electric Smoke (with his uncle, Luke Wiedmann) as well as the Fitzee Brothers at various beach locations.
Having finished school at Temple University studying music and technology, the young guitarist now is rocking up in Philadelphia as well. His new band, Trouble at the Dormat, will be at Kung Fu Necktie on Thursday, October 3, performing songs from their new EP, Funk 4 Breakfast .
You can catch both Wiedmanns, father and son, on stage together with Brad Newsom and the Jagermintz on Black Friday, November 29, at Coastal Taproom in Reboboth.
You can find Trouble at the Doormat on Spotify.
Smalls Music Shop Thinks Big This Season
The only music store in Wilmington city limits, Smalls Music Shop, has some expansive ideas. On Sunday, October 13, the store welcomes music acts Katy Pinke from New York and local rockers Team Lift to play live sets starting at 6 p.m.
On Saturday, November 16 starting at 11 a.m., Smalls hosts a free, all-ages pedal clinic with local gear-wizard, John DeMaio, of Voltic Electronic Devices. Then for its Holiday Open House on Saturday, December 7, look for Smalls to kick off the holidays with live music, refreshments, and a visit from the Rainbow Records bus. The free, all-ages event runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
— More at SmallsMusicShop.com.
Pizza By Elizabeths: Serving Slices of Nightlife
Along with its award-winning pizza, Pizza By Elizabeths adds some additional festiveness to its bar area with live music.
This month catch the rock-and-country act Boots ‘N Skirts on Thursday, Oct. 3. The Jonathan Whitney Trio performs the Sunday Jazz Brunch on Oct. 6. The Sin Brothers play classic rock hits on Friday, Oct. 11 followed by Hunter Van Valkenburg on piano Saturday, Oct. 12. Guitar virtuoso Shaun Dougherty entertains on Thursday, Oct. 17.
Look for Ben LeRoy and Friends to return on Thursday, Nov. 14.
— More at PizzaByElizabeths.com.
Cli Hillis and Dennis Schocket
Team Up on New EP
Fans of the Baltimore band Starbelly will be happy to hear that band members Cli Hillis and Dennis Schocket have collaborated on a new EP entitled Pop, Girls, Etc. Songs from the EP have been getting spins on Philadelphia’s WXPN along with rave reviews. “I can’t decide whether they have unearthed the great lost Bad nger record, or just made the record that the Romantics wish they’d been good enough to make,” said acclaimed producer and songwriter Don Dixon (R.E.M., Gin Blossoms, e Smithereens).
Hillis and Schocket will open for Kid Davis & e Bullets at Steel City Co eehouse & Brewery in Phoenixville, Pa., on Friday, October 18.
— More at CliffHills.com.
Wednesday Night Acoustic Music at Kid Shelleen’s Branmar
It’s a Wednesday night in North Wilmington. You want to hang out with some friends, have a couple of cocktails, and listen to some live music.
Sounds like you should swing by Kid Shelleen’s (newer) location in Branmar Plaza. For instance, this month you can check out Kevin Burns on Oct. 2, Joe Grasso on Oct. 9, Rich O’Hanlon (aka Richie O) on Oct. 16, Ted Stewart on Oct. 23, and Kevin Burns on Oct. 30.
— More at KidShelleens.com.
Elkton Music Hall Keeps on Rockin'
Cecil County’s newest live music venue (it just celebrated its one-year anniversary this past July) offers a diverse lineup of nationally touring acts, as well as local and regional artists in its intimate, 300-seat space. Upcoming shows include Adrenalize – The Ultimate Def Leppard Experience (10/5), Sunny Sweeney (10/8), Judy Sings the Blues (10/9), A Musical Celebration of John Prine (10/12), the Sensational Soul Cruisers (10/17), Shemekia Copeland with Lower Case Blues (10/18), PRS Eightlock (10/24), Yam Yam (10/25), and Steal Your Peach (10/26). But there two shows that Ron Ozer, head of programming for the venue, says are the highlights of the month: David Cross Band plays King Crimson on Oct. 15 (“Cross was with [King Crimson] during a great period in the mid-‘70s,” Ozer says.) and alt-rock group Deer Tick on Oct. 19, co-presented by WXPN.
— More at ElktonMusicHall.com.
Live & Local
Lively Nights at The Chancery Market
Featuring a variety of cuisines, the downtown Wilmington food hall also o ers weekly music entertainment: Music Bingo with DJ Taven every ursday from 6-8 p.m., and live music Friday and Saturday nights. Music on Fridays is 5:30-7:30 p.m. and on Saturday it’s 7-9 p.m., with happy hour available seven days a week from 4-7 p.m. is month musicians include Sidepiece Duo (10/4), Trevor Stubbs (10/5), DJ Den (10/11), Genesis Z (10/12), Hailey & Spadola (10/18), Aaron Poole (10/19), Alvin Alexander (10/25), and Liz Watkins (10/26). e Chancery also o ers 3-hour complimentary on-site, underground parking from 5 p.m. to close on Friday nights and all-day Saturday.
— More at TheChanceryMarket.com.
Olivia Rubini Holds Court at The Queen
After an impressive and wild run on this season of NBC's The Voice , Olivia Rubini is ready to rock in her hometown this fall. The musician will be performing a series of residency shows at The Queen on Friday, November 22; Friday, December 20; and January (TBD).
Look for Rubini to perform her new originals, like “Heartless Woman” and “Love Em & Leave Em,” plus at least one song she performed on The Voice . She plans to release her version of Linda Ronstadt’s “Long Long Time” to coincide with the start of the residency in November.
— More at OliviaRubini.com.
Queensrÿche Gets Heavy at The Queen
If you’re looking for a place to rock out, look no farther than The Queen, another of Market Street’s historic gems. October kicks off with rock group Hinder in the Main Hall on Oct. 1, followed by psychobilly trio Reverend Horton Heat on Oct. 5, and British-Irish boy band The Wanted 2.0 on Oct. 8. Also in the Main Hall: Dirty Honey (10/11), Queensrÿche (10/16), and KMFDM (10/25). The Crown, the venue’s more intimate space, hosts The Blackburns with Early Riser and Synergy Corp (10/11), IVA (10/18), and Hot to Go! The Chappell Roan Party (10/25).
— More at TheQueenWilmington.com.
Catherine Rooney’s Rocks Trolley Square
Catherine Rooney’s brings the fun to fall weekends with live music every Friday and Saturday night starting at 10 p.m.
This month, it’s Turning the Tide on Friday, Oct. 4 and Liquid A on Saturday, Oct. 5; Jumper on Friday, Oct. 11 and Kono Nation on Saturday, Oct. 12; Benderz on Oct. 18 and R1D2 on Saturday, Oct. 19; and Cat 5 on Friday, Oct. 25 and It’s All Good on Saturday, Oct. 26.
— More at CatherineRooneys.com.
Squeezebox Records Holds Contest and More
In the spirit of the season ahead, Squeezebox Records is holding a Holiday Logo Contest. The store is looking for a festive spin on their original logo. Submissions should be submitted at the store at 1901 W. 11th Street in Wilmington. First prize is $100, second $50, and $25 gift cards go to the next three runners up.
On Friday, October 11, the store will host a live set from indie act G.T. Arpe along with a special guest. And on Saturday, October 19th it’s Dollar Day Sale with all budget records $1 each.
— More info at SqueezeboxRecords.com.
The Rock Orchestra's Grand Trifecta
Delaware Valley’s premier tribute group, The Rock Orchestra (TRO), is known for playing note-for-note recreations of works by classic artists such as The Who, Elton John, Tom Petty, and Genesis. The group performs all their shows in Copeland Hall, the main stage at The Grand Opera House. TRO’s eighth season kicks off on Oct. 12 with Chicago’s hits, along with a full performance of their debut album Chicago Transit Authority . On Feb. 15, Phil Collins’ solo career is celebrated featuring hits and deep tracks from Face Value to Testify …and maybe a little Tarzan . And finally on Apr. 26, TRO will rock you when the group (plus a full choir!) performs its biggest show yet at The Grand with a night of Queen’s hits, album cuts and live favorites.
— More at TheRockOrchestra.net.
Voltic Electronic Devices Brings the Juice
This month Voltic Electronic Devices is excited to announce a collaboration guitar pedal called Smalls Fuzz they are releasing in conjunction with Smalls Music Shop in Wilmington.
The addition of the Smalls Fuzz will bring Voltic’s official pedal lineup to three pedals, including the Dual Transistor Fuzz, their flagship unit, and the Awkward Mustache, essentially an op amp muff circuit.
Voltic owner and pedal designer, John-Anthony DeMaio, will be on-hand at Smalls when he holds a pedal clinic on Saturday, November 16.
— More at VolticElectronicDevices.com.
Fred Reed Finds the Charts with New Single
Fred Reed continues to keep rolling out the hits. His latest single, “Found You,” featuring R&B singer Raheem DaVaughn, recently earned airplay across the country climbing to #25 on the R&B Billboard charts.
Reed is also the father of nine children. He and his wife Cora are the CEO founders of Reeds Refuge Center, a non-profit outreach organization for children living in underserved communities on Wilmington’s Eastside.
For more info on Reed’s music — including other recent relationship-based singles “Tug of War” and “Roses” — visit FredReedMusic.com.
— More on his non-profit work at ReedsRefugeCenter.org.
Live & Local
Final Jams at Constitution Yards
The popular beer garden announced over the summer that it would be closing at the end of this season to make room for a new apartment complex and reopening in another area of the Riverfront in the future (no location has yet to be announced). So, make sure you get over there and enjoy it before closing later this fall. The temperatures may be cool, but the music is still hot every Friday and Saturday night from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Catch the following live bands through Nov. 2: Aces High (10/4); Country Night (10/5); Kenny Don’t Play (10/11); Staycation (10/12); Bucket of Hot (10/18); Side Hustle (10/19); Lucky Stone (10/26); Low Tide (11/1); and A Blonde Moment (11/2).
— Visit ConstitutionYards.com
Jazz & More at The Nomad Bar
Downtown Wilmington’s hidden gem is one of the best places to listen to live jazz in the area. Every Thursday through Saturday evening, kick back with a beer or one of their hand-crafted cocktails and enjoy everything from smooth jazz to bluegrass. Performing in October are Pocket Fuzz (10/3); Philly Jazz Ska Quartet (10/4); Island Vibe (10/5); Diamond Swing Jazz (10/10); Mr. B3 (10/11); The Festers (10/12); Skip Barthold Jazz Project (10/17); Tap Room Trio (10/18); The Bullets (11/19); Moxy Rah & Genesis Z (10/24); Alvin Alexander & Friends; (10/25); Roger Girke (10/26); and a Halloween party featuring Genesis Z (10/31).
— More at Facebook.com/WilmingtonJazz.
Intimate Vibes at Bellefonte Cafe
The eclectic cafe has always featured live music by area musicians, but when new ownership took over in February, even more music was promised…and they’ve delivered. You can enjoy music from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. almost every night of the week (they’re closed Mondays), including during Sunday brunch from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Some upcoming acts include The Good God Damn Duo (10/3), Orphan River Band (10/12), Gunpowder Lane (10/16), West Philly Foot Tappers (10/24), and the Collin Bunch Band (10/30).
— To see the full music lineup, visit TheBellefonteCafe.com
Hip Hop Power
Legendary Flavor Flav headlines Delaware Art Museum summit
By Michelle Kramer-Fitzgerald
On Saturday, October 26, hip hop and social justice advocates convene for the Second Annual Hip Hop Cultural Summit, hosted by the Delaware Art Museum, AllHipHop, and Guerrilla Republik. The free family-friendly event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and registration is required to attend.
Savor creative tailgate bites from your favorite local restaurants. Beer trail curated by 2SP Group, plus wine and specialty cocktails. Music by DJ Smooth. Beer & Sport Themed Auction!
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 23, 6-9 PM THE GROVE AT DELAWARE PARK www.mealsonwheelsde.org/event/ultimate-tailgate-2024
Enjoy creative tailgate bites provided by favorite restaurants.
Enjoy creative tailgate bites provided by favorite restaurants.
Enjoy creative tailgate bites provided by favorite restaurants. Craft beer trail curated by 2SP Group, plus wines, & specialty cocktails
Enjoy creative tailgate bites provided by favorite restaurants. Craft beer trail curated by 2SP Group, plus wines, & specialty cocktails
“This Summit is an example how the Delaware Art Museum is committed to arts and culture, especially within the community we reflect,” says Iz Balleto, the Museum’s Community Engagement Specialist.
“This event is not just entertainment,” he continued. “It's an opportunity for empowerment and a chance to learn what hip hop culture stands for. Hip hop began with a message of peace and advocacy for community needs through its elements, and it has always belonged to the people.”
Last year’s inaugural summit attracted more than 1,000 attendees. This year’s event promises to be even bigger, increasing its focus on hip hop, civic engagement, and activism. It will incorporate hip hop battles in MCing, graffiti, and breakdancing; a photography exhibit highlighting hip hop's rich history by T. Eric Monroe; an exhibit celebrating the invention of the record player from the Victrola Museum; and a local artists’ showcase on the art of Activism and Social Justice.
Most exciting of all is that Flavor Flav — legendary co-founder of groundbreaking rap group Public Enemy — is confirmed as the headliner. Chuck Creekmur, CoFounder of AllHipHop, will facilitate a Q&A with Flav.
Additional speakers include Hakim Green (cofounder of 24 Hours of Peace) sharing insights on Hip Hop’s influence on education and activism; Pam Africa (social justice advocate) speaking on the intersection of hip hop and activism; and Dr. Yasser Arafat Payne (University of Delaware scholar) exploring the academic and societal impacts of hip hop culture.
“I'm incredibly excited about this year and the amazing lineup of guests we have in store,” says AllHipHop founder, Grouchy Greg Watkins. “From legends like Flavor Flav to thought leaders like Hakim Green, this event will truly showcase the power of hip hop in driving social change. I’m looking forward to seeing the community come together to experience the art, the discussions, and the battles. It’s going to be an inspiring and unforgettable day for everyone.”
Watkins, a longtime fan of Public Enemy since Yo! Bum Rush The Show, has known Flavor Flav for years. He ran into Flav in L.A. in September 2023 then re-connected with him over Grammy weekend this past February, where Watkins asked if he’d be interested in being part of the Hip Hop Summit.
“To have Flav participating is such an honor,” he says. “He’s a dynamic individual, with an incredible story of activism, personal triumphs and redemption.”
— The Hip Hop Summit on Saturday, Oct. 26 is free to attemd, but registration is required. Register at DelArt.org.
Rock And Rolling
OTime for the Rainbow Records Bus to hit the road. Look for it at a music gathering near you.
By Matt Morrissette
pened in 1979, Newark’s Rainbow Records has borne witness to the tumultuous story of the music industry over the last half century — and survived to tell the tale.
From the arrival of the compact disc in the mid-1980s, to the near collapse of the music business due to the advent of illegal downloading of songs in the early 2000s, to the birth of streaming and the oft-vili ed Spotify from the 2010s on, Rainbow has seen it all. However, by hanging in there through a chain of caring and passionate owners, Rainbow has emerged on the other side to experience a true renaissance in enthusiastic vinyl collecting among young people and old collectors alike.
Rainbow Records owner Melissa Forsythe (front) with team members (l-r): Austen Morgan, Mike Glessner and Chrissy Morgan.
Photos by Joe Hoddinott/Phojoegraphy
In 2024, the Rainbow legacy finds itself in the very capable hands of beloved longtime employee and musician Melissa Forsythe and her husband Myke Glessner. The couple has owned the store since 2022, which is now located at Newark’s Pomoroy Station shopping center.
No business can experience this kind of longevity without a willingness to try new things, and Rainbow Records is no exception. Over the years, the store has hosted shows (now more than ever with there being few places for bands to play in Newark); started a record club; planned shows and festivals for other venues all over Delaware (Forsythe is the mastermind behind the biannual local music and arts festivals called Hot Jam and Cool Jam); and now a plan that spent quite a long time in the incubator has come to fruition: a Rainbow Records mobile record store in the form of a converted school bus.
The Rainbow Records Bus made its official debut at a joyous and well-attended grand opening event this past Labor Day. According to Forsythe, the event was
Customers browse the vinyl options aboard the Rainbow Records Bus.
the culmination of a long journey from the seed of the idea (which drew inspiration from both Jack White’s Third Man Records mobile record stores and the food truck phenomenon finally catching on in Delaware) planted by former Rainbow owners Todd and Miranda Brewer to the fevered rush to complete the bus by Labor Day despite a host of obstacles.
“We bought the bus at the end of April and completed it the night before the grand opening, so we were really cutting it close,” says Forsythe. “It was surprisingly difficult to figure out a way to not have records melt in a hot vehicle! It also took a while to do the building projects, design work and paint job. And the fact that the bus broke down the first day we took it to the hardware store to buy wood and was at the mechanic for a month, was not helpful.”
The completed bus is a glory to behold featuring a stunning retro paint job and the ability to hold about 1,200 records and several hundred compact discs and cassettes. According to Forsythe, the bus comes incredibly close to matching the image she had in her mind’s eye — save for her having to let go of her dream of 1970s van-style shaggy carpets because “they get gross pretty quickly.”
It goes without saying that a school bus full of records is cool and should look the part, and, more practically, function as a rolling advertisement for the business. To this end, Rainbow enlisted the services of local artist and punk musician Dave Spencer (of the band Bad Smidgen) to paint the bus in his inimitable style.
“The mural on the bus is fairly simple and whimsical,” Spencer says. “My art tends to be mainly inspired by animation and cartoons. When I was initially told about the job, my first instinct was to do something fun, but also a bit psychedelic, something that harkens back to the 1960s and '70s.” >
Melissa Forsythe (l) with her mother, Carol Forsythe.
With help from friends and his significant other — and with meticulous planning — Spencer managed to complete the bus painting in a little over a week, likening it to coloring in a really big coloring book.
Now that Rainbow Records has managed to get the mobile store “mobile,” they have big things on the horizon and a packed fall schedule.
“We’re really looking to visit some towns in the local-ish area that don’t have a record store, like Middletown.,” says Forsythe. “We’re going to go to a lot of breweries and music events. We plan to be at Fall Fest at Autumn Arch on October 19, Fall Fest at Workhorse Brewing in King of Prussia on October 26, and the Newark Halloween Parade on October 27.
However, the event of the year for Rainbow is their 45th anniversary, and Forsythe and Glessner are going to pull out all the stops (including the bus) for a party at Newark’s Aetna Fire Hall on November 17. The affair will feature more than 40 vendors, vinyl DJs, food trucks, and, of course, lots and lots of records.
— Get on the Bus! Find a schedule at RainbowRecordsDE.com.
Customers wait their turn to board the Rainbow Records Bus, which plans to be a regular at area breweries and live music events.
The Guitar Man
Some of rock’s biggest stars covet Jim Cara’s custom creations
By Kevin Noonan
If there was a turning point in Jim Cara’s professional life, it came when he met Leo Fender, one of his heroes. Fender, who died in 1991 at the age of 81, was a pioneer in guitar design and innovation, and he belongs on the Mount Rushmore of guitar creators along with Les Paul, Orville Gibson and Paul Reed Smith.
Cara was a musician who also loved to tinker with electronics, which included making his own guitars. Cara ran into Fender one day and eagerly handed him a tape of some demos Cara made of a band he was promoting. And that’s when Fender gave him a piece of life-changing advice.
First, Fender bluntly told him to throw the tape away. Then he compared the guitar to a shovel that oldtime prospectors used to dig for gold. Many dreamed of striking it rich, but few did. So, Fender told Cara to stick with making guitars, rather than playing them. >
Jim Cara (l) with KISS co-founder and frontman Paul Stanley. Photos courtesy Jim Cara
According to Cara, Fender’s exact words were “Make shovels for the other guys that want to dig for gold.”
That light-bulb moment changed Cara’s perspective, and that’s when his career as a shovel/guitar maker really began.
“That was the best advice I ever got,” Cara says. “After that, there was no turning back.”
Fast-forward a few decades and that advice looks even better today. Cara designs and builds guitars for some of the biggest stars in rockand-roll music and has a special bond with members of the band KISS.
career. “It hasn’t always been an easy ride, but it’s always been a fun ride. I’m doing exactly what I was born to do — I was born to create stuff.”
It’s certainly not a surprise that Cara — a 63-year-old who grew up in the Little Italy section of Wilmington and went to Delcastle High — made music his career or, more to the point, made music his life. His father, Jimmy Cara, was a wellknown local musician who played the trumpet with big band legends like Tommy Dorsey and Sammy Kaye and rhythm-and-blues legends like the O’Jays, the Commodores and the Spinners.
Cara has built custom guitars for Ace Frehley and bass guitars for Gene Simmons and was side stage when Simmons appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon the night before KISS’ 2014 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
And he does it all from his shop, Cara’s Hot Rod Guitars, which for many years was part of the NEXTFAB building on North Tatnall Street in Wilmington until that location closed in 2023. Now Cara operates out of the NEXTFAB building on N. American Street in Philadelphia.
“I’ve been doing this for 45 years now,” says Cara, who estimates he’s made more than 1,000 custom guitars in his
Jimmy Cara, who died in 2023 at the age of 86, also worked in a local music store in the 1970s and his son started hanging out there, and that’s when his real love of music, and the instruments that make music, started.
And Jim Cara Jr. went the extra mile to make his career possible. He didn’t want to make ordinary guitars — he wanted his to have flair and a distinct personality. He took inspiration from hot rods and their vivid colors and designs, but there was nobody who taught guitar-building like that. So, Cara did the next best thing: He enrolled in the Automotive Institute of Technology, where he learned how to paint and embellish hot rods, which he then
Cara in front of his father's music store in 1968.
transferred to the guitar-making business. He even earned college credits in Automotive Re nishing. at kind of extra e ort doesn’t surprise Nick Bucci, Cara’s close friend and fellow guitar geek.
Cara credits Bucci with helping him establish himself in the business. Bucci — who also performs locally with singer Kelly Vale, including Wednesday night gigs at V&M Bistro in Brandywine Hundred — is a 1973 graduate of Mount Pleasant High who has his own guitar shop in Claymont.
“I’ve known Jim since he was a teenager, and he hasn’t changed at all over the years,” Bucci says. “He’s still a go-getter. He never stops. And I think the real key to his success is the fact that he’s fearless. He’s never afraid to try new things, no matter how crazy they may seem on the surface. And he usually nds a way to make it work.”
Bucci says he and Cara are constantly bouncing ideas o each other, even though they don’t always agree with each other.
“I see things he may not see and he sees things that I may not see,” Bucci says. “We’re like two mad scientists who are always experimenting, but he’s de nitely more daring when it comes to designing custom guitars. He’s
really in a class by himself when it comes to that, and that’s why he’s in such demand by so many big stars.” at demand began innocently enough, as Cara had another careerde ning moment that led to a career-making client: Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist of the band KISS.
Guitar World magazine ranked Frehley as the 14th greatest metal guitarist of all time and KISS is one of the most popular rock groups of all time. e various members of KISS have sold more than 100 million albums and earned 30 gold albums and 14 platinum albums. Plus, they’ve made
So, getting a chance to work with a superstar like Frehley was obviously a huge boost for Cara’s career, and a completely unexpected one. What convinced the former KISS star to hire Cara was the way he was able to recreate one of Frehley’s trademarks — a smoking guitar.
“I knew this guy who also happened to be friends with Ace Frehley,” Cara says. “He told me that Ace needed some more smoking guitars. Well, I’ve been playing smoking guitars since I was a teenager. So, this guy calls me and said Ace Frehley wants to play one of your smoking guitars, and I’m like, right, Ace Frehley wants me to >
Cara and Lita Ford with Ace Frehley's "smoking guitar."
make guitars for him.
“So, I basically blew this guy off for a while, but then he convinced me that was telling the truth. So I made a couple of replicas, sent them to him and figured that was the end of it.”
But it wasn’t; in fact, it was just the beginning. Cara got another call and was told Frehley wanted him to build an exact replica of his signature guitar, which had been lost. Better yet, he was told to go to Gibson headquarters in Nashville, Tenn., and present the guitar to Frehley personally.
Frehley was impressed with the job Cara did, and even more impressed with the pains he took to build the guitar. Cara got hold of the original blueprints and then took it a step further — he got in touch with the guy who built Frehley’s original guitar.
“I think Ace was surprised that I went to all that trouble,” Cara says. “And I’ve been working with him ever since.”
His dealings with Frehley opened the door to other
rock stars, and eventually Cara would build guitars and/or bass guitars for Frehley’s KISS bandmate, Gene Simmons, as well as Steve Miller, Lita Ford, Ron Wood of the Rolling Stones, Brad Gillis of Night Ranger and Robbie Krieger of e Doors.
He also customized a guitar for John 5, who has played with heavy hitters like David Lee Roth, Marilyn Manson, Rob Zombie and, most recently, Motley Crüe. John 5 appeared on the July 2024 cover of Guitar Player magazine holding one of Cara’s creations.
And what has been a very lucrative part of those relationships is Cara’s ability to make perfect copies of famous (or infamous) guitars by stars like Frehley and Simmons. It starts when somebody commissions Cara to make a replica of, say, Simmons’ bass. Not only will the customer get the guitar, he’ll get a chance to meet the performer who made the instrument iconic. And here’s the real topper — Simmons will actually play their instrument on stage, then present it to them.
Cara has made about 60 custom pieces for Simmons and said bass guitars that the former KISS frontman played in concert have sold on collector’s markets for $20,000 to $75,000.
Not bad for a shovel.
— You can view Cara’s work at the 1313 Monster Art and Film Show on Saturday, Oct. 12 at e Screening Room (1313 N. Market St., Wilm.). Doors open at 6pm. For details on the event, visit eScreeningRoom.org.
The cover of Guitar Player magazine, featuring acclaimed guitarist John 5 holding a Jim Cara creation.
Apple-utely!
Move over, pumpkin. Apples are the true taste of fall.
By Pam George
Judging by the products on supermarket shelves, pumpkin is the flavor of the month. However, apples have an edge. They’re abundant all year. You can eat them raw, right from the tree, or cook them. Plus, bobbing for an apple is much easier than a pumpkin.
While always plentiful, apples are especially popular in autumn, perhaps because apple trees are deciduous, meaning they lose their leaves each fall. In October, the fruit is also the apple of a chef’s eye. “Apples and onions are my go-to in the fall,” agrees chef Robert Lhulier, operating manager of the rechristened Brandywine Brasserie in Wilmington. “The third element of a trilogy is pork — any kind of pork, but mostly some version of smoked ham hock, pork belly or braise.”
Apples also pop up in desserts. “Apple crisp with oatmeal crust and salted caramel gelato is a crowd pleaser,” maintains David Leo Banks of Banks’ Seafood Kitchen on the Wilmington Riverfront.
Healthwise, you can’t go wrong. Consuming apples may lower your chance of developing cancer, diabetes and heart disease. No wonder they are the most consumed fruit in the world, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Economic Research Services.
An Impressive Past
Apples are symbols in many cultures. For instance, an apple hung from the Tree of Knowledge in the Garden of Eden, and they play an essential part in the Rosh Hashanah feast: Apple dipped in honey symbolizes a sweet new year. Legend has it that apples kept Norse gods from aging and the rst apples may have come from Asia and the Middle East. Some scientists maintain that Kazakhstan is the birthplace. e capital, Alma Ata, means “full of apples.” As the Romans expanded the empire, the seeds traveled to northern Europe, including Great Britain. Settlers brought the seeds to the New World, which only had crabapples until the Europeans arrived.
Delmarva’s oldest commercial apple orchard is T.S. Smith and Sons in Bridgeville, founded in 1907. But in the late 19th century, Kent County was the “Apple Belt” thanks to the Derby farm, which devoted 300 acres to apples.
In north Wilmington, Highland Orchards’ deed — written on sheepskin — was signed in 1832. e land has been used to raise dairy cows, pigs and produce. e farm, known for apples in the fall, remains in the hands of founder Clark Webster’s family.
Delaware’s peak apple production was in the mid-1940s, with a total annual harvest of 550 million pounds. More recently, apple production has averaged about 15 million pounds with a value of just under $3 million.
Washington, New York, Michigan, California and Virginia are top apple-producing states. As for countries, Chile, Brazil, South Africa and New Zealand are the leading worldwide producers.
Ripe for the Picking
Harvesting apples is still a largely manual process impacted by labor shortages. Orchards that let customers pick fruit can ease the burden, although insurance goes up and the customers expect an experience.
At ousand Acre Farm in
Middletown, an increasing number of people are picking their apples versus buying them prepicked, said co-owner Shannon Hynson. Honeycrisp is the most popular choice. Many visitors combine the apple-picking outing with u-pick pumpkins and sun owers, she adds.
Since ousand Acre Farm is a wedding venue, you must schedule a date that won’t con ict with an event. ere is a website calendar at ousandAcreFarm.com.
In Elkton, Maryland, Milburn Orchards takes online reservations at MilburnOrchards.com. e admission includes a wagon ride to the trees. In October, varieties include Stayman Winesap, Fuji, and Sweet Zoe, an apple the orchard developed. “It’s only grown on our farm,” says Olivia Johnston, a fth-generation family member.
In nearby Media, Pennsylvania, Linvilla Orchards requires tickets if you want to pick Honeycrisp. Don’t want to pick? Pay to shoot them out of a high-powered air cannon. Get tickets at Linvilla.com.
Good Enough to Eat
e Honeycrisp was developed in 1974 at the Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station’s Horticultural Research Center at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. Released in 1991, it’s become a favorite apple to eat raw. Juicy Gala and Fuji are other apples you can grab on the go for a ber and anti-in ammatory boost.
Fuji, Honeycrisp and Gala are also suitable for baking. Indeed, don’t be surprised to see apple cider doughnuts at any area orchard. Formerly a fall treat, the sugary confection is available at many farmstands in summer.
e new Sleeping Bird Doughnuts in Talleyville puts a signature spin on the apple- avored doughnut. In September, for instance, a brioche donut was lled with apple butter and tossed in cinnamon sugar. is month, owners Leigh Ann Tona and Zach DeLong plan to use homemade apple pie lling in the brioche doughnut.
At Sleeping Bird Co ee, the couple’s shop on Miller Road in Wilmington, guests can order apple butter spice cake with brown butter-cream cheese frosting. Cake, not pie, is also available at Cajun Kate’s on Philadelphia Pike, where co-owner Kate Applebaum makes Jewish apple
Picking your own apples is still an option at many area orchards.
cake cupcakes for fall.
As part of Crooked Hammock’s Crooktoberfest, the Middletown brewpub is featuring caramel apple strudel sundae: vanilla ice cream with caramelized apples, cinnamon streusel topping, caramel sauce, stroopwafel cookie pieces, whipped cream and cinnamon sugar.
The restaurant’s sister restaurant, Taco Reho, serves apple-cinnamon churros. They’ve grown so popular that co-founder/chef Billy Lucas made them a menu staple.
Apple and beer are evidently a good match. Consider Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant’s walnut-and-pecan upside-down apple pie. Vanilla bean ice cream sits on a candied walnut-and-pecan crust. It’s all topped with Pig Iron Porter salted caramel sauce.
At the newly rechristened Brandywine Brasserie, pastry chef Kaila Brenchi has created honey apple cake, which will be available all season. In late fall, she will add apple crisp with a warm filling and streusel topping.
Apples also appear in salads. Take, for instance, the fall salad at Le Cavalier in Wilmington. Honeycrisp are tossed with roasted beets, endive, feta and Sicilian pistachios.
Meanwhile, mixing apples into savory dishes brings out the natural sugars in other ingredients, Lhulier says. “They create another layer of flavor in roasts and braises or sauteed into greens or potatoes, as well as other root vegetables.”
The fall salad at Le Cavalier in Wilmington features Honeycrisp apples, endive, feta and Sicilian pistachios. Photo by Taylor Mickal
Sip & Savor
Lhulier is also fond of eau de vie-style spirits, such as Calvados from France’s Normandy region. “Distilled from apples or pears, a dash or a splash here and there also kicks things up a little in a sauce or marinade,” he explains.
When it comes to drinking apples, most people are familiar with cider, the most common beverage in the American Colonies in the mid-17th century, according to Washington State University’s extension o ce. at’s not surprising, given it dates to Roman times.
Unlike apple juice, which is filtered, “fresh” or “sweet” cider still has pulp and sediment. Drink it hot or cold. Cajun Kate’s, for instance, sells hot mulled cider in colder months.
Hard cider is fermented and can have an ABV of less than 3% to as much as 8.5%. Last year, the American Swedish Museum in Philadelphia approached Liquid Alchemy in Wilmington to make Rambo’s Revival Cider with heirloom Rambo apples grown on its property. e meadery plans to do the same this year.
“ e Rambo apples have an exciting history dating back hundreds of years,” says Terri Sorantino, who founded Liquid Alchemy with “Doc” Je rey Cheskin. e Rambo family brought the seeds from Sweden to the colonies, he explains. Side note: Supposedly, Sylvester Stallone met a Rambo family member and asked to use the name for his movie. “ e rest is history,” Cheskin says.
Similarly, Wilmington Brew Works (WBW) in Wilmington has used Hagley’s apples and cherries to make Fruits of Eleuthrian Mills cider. e brewery produces cider all year, but “fall is cider’s time to shine,” says John Fusco, vice president of creative and brand marketing.
Wilmington Brew Works has brought back at Pie Girl’s Apple Pie Cider, a collaboration with Amy Watson Bish, WBW’s neighbor, fan and winner of multiple Delaware State Fair blue ribbons. (She also works at Out & About.)
“With hints of nutmeg, cinnamon and allspice, it’s the perfect beverage for autumn,” Fusco says. “It will be on draught at the Wilmington Brew Works taproom and available in bottles as we get closer to anksgiving.”
For something completely di erent — and nonalcoholic — consider Drip Café’s caramel-apple milkshake, available at the Hockessin and Newark locations through fall.
Cold, hot, raw or cooked — with so many options, there’s no excuse to miss an apple a day in October.
That Pie Girl's Apple Pie Cider returns to Wilmington Brew Works.
Photo courtesy WBW
Keeping It Fresh
Newark brewery Twisted Irons adds new brewer and introduces golf simulator
TBy Scott Pruden
he guys who built a thriving craft brewery around their shared frustration with golf cordially invite you to play a round on the links while satisfying your craving for one of their tasty brews. >
Twisted Irons founders Dave Markle (l) and Matt Found. Photos by Joe Hoddinott / Phojoegraphy
But don’t look for a Twisted Irons Craft Brewing pop-up at your favorite golf course. Instead, founders Matt Found and Dave Markle are building a hightech golf simulator next door to their thriving Newark brewpub. It’s yet another clever play on the golf theme from the team that launched their shared venture back in 2021, just as the world was recovering from widespread COVID-19 lockdowns but still limiting occupancy at public gathering spaces.
Given the links-related theme, the team considered
the idea for a golf simulator as Twisted Irons initially got rolling, says Markle.
“It was knocked around early as an idea, but we didn’t have the space to support something like that,” he says. “And it was a question of how many things we wanted to take on.”
However, after buying the space adjacent to the existing brewpub building in July of 2023, the limitations disappeared, allowing Twisted Irons to expand from 3,000 to 6,000 square feet. e added room initially made it possible for Twisted Irons to add extra o ce and inventory space, as well as an automated canning line to replace the hand canning setup they had used since they opened.
MAXIMIZING THE EXPERIENCE
Meanwhile, they knew that if they added the simulator, they wanted to make sure they did it right.
“Once we had expansion capabilities, we started really brainstorming the golf simulator — the concept of the idea and the business model that we wanted,” Found says. “ en we started to work with an architect to design it and go through the permitting process, the general contractors, build-outs, the inspections, all that.”
With the simulator set to open this month,
Brandon Gouge brewing on Twisted Irons' new small-batch system.
the pair are making sure they provide a great gol ng experience to complement their hand-crafted beers. Session times will run three hours, which they estimate is the ideal time for a foursome to nish 18 holes. Reservations are highly recommended.
MUSIC AND MISSION
Two of the things both Found and Markle have focused on since opening — live music and supporting charities to ght breast cancer — remain steadfast in the Twisted Irons philosophy. e brewpub books local bands consistently, holds Music Video Bingo and features a regular open-mic night.
With crowds of regulars for the popular openmic nights and new visitors rotating through to see various bands, the music keeps the customer base vibrant and consistent, says Joe Hoddinott, who in addition to handling marketing for Twisted Irons is also the mastermind behind the pinup/comic art labels that adorn the brewpub’s cans.
“So, it's almost like our di erent nights have di erent crowds, whereas the weekends we tend to get a lot of new faces that I think a lot of the bands tend to bring in,” he says. “Matt is a musician, and I think he just realizes the importance of having a space for musicians to come play and what it does for the venue.”
Meanwhile, Twisted Irons’ commitment to supporting breast cancer charities comes from personal connections with breast cancer survivors in the brewpub family, Hoddinott says. e brewery donates $1 from the sale of each pint of its Pinipple IPA to the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition. is year marks Twisted Irons’ third annual F*ck Cancer Charity Bene t held last month and they will again sponsor Delcastle Golf Course’s annual Drive Out Cancer event on Oct. 14. >
Twisted Irons plans to have its golf simulator ready for action this month.
NEW FACE, NEW FLAVORS
While Found has served as brewmaster since Twisted Irons’ opening, this year the team added Brandon Gouge (formerly of Mispillion River Brewing Company, Milford) as an additional brewer. And with Gouge came a welcome taste for additional experimentation.
The brewery’s five-gallon “small batch” system allows brewers to play with new flavors without the commitment of creating an entire barrel run, Hoddinott says. The result is small-batch beers that give the brewers a chance to try something new and gauge the response of customers. Gouge has also begun experimenting with beers aged in wine and liquor barrels to build more complex flavor profiles.
“There's been nine or 10 of them now, and all have been pretty successful,” Found says. “We get to make something a little quirky or weird or something that we might not be able to get away with — or we're not sure on the bigger production system.”
— For events and new releases visit TwistedIronsBrewery.com.
Twisted Irons' Pinipple IPA. "Pi-nipple" was named by one of the brewery's regulars who battled breast cancer.
The City
MAYOR, CULTURAL AFFAIRS DIRECTOR IN BUSINESS LEADERS HALL OF FAME
Mayor Mike Purzycki and Cultural Affairs Director Tina Betz are among the 2024 Delaware Business Leaders Hall of Fame Laureates to be inducted on Tuesday, October 8, 2024. Hall of Fame Laureates serve as role models to the thousands of local young people served by Junior Achievement of Delaware each academic year. The 2024 Hall of Fame focuses on the Arts & Wilmington Riverfront. The 2024 Delaware Business Leaders Hall of Fame Laureates are:
Artist/Advocate Tina Betz , Director of Cultural Affairs for the City of Wilmington; Artist/Entrepreneur Christian Kanienberg of Wish Unlimited; Artist/Entrepreneur and Advocate; Eunice LaFate of Lafate Gallery; Delaware Theatre Company founder Cleveland Morris ; and former Riverfront Development Corporation director, the Honorable Michael Purzycki.
CITY LAUNCHES WILMINGTON WATER WEBSITE
MThe City of Wilmington has launched its new Wilmington Water Utility website, now live at WilmingtonDEWater.gov. This new platform is designed to make it easier for consumers to manage their accounts; find essential information about ongoing projects; and learn about the City’s environmental efforts.
The website is centered around easy-to-use navigation tools, enabling a seamless experience that quickly directs customers to details about their bills, as well as educational content about our water quality and lead reduction programs.
The web launch coincides with the rebranding of the City’s Water Division to Wilmington Water. Recognizing how the next few years will bring increased attention to the nation’s drinking water and wastewater services, the
The Honorable Michel Purzycki (left) and Director of Cultural Affairs, Tina Betz.
City wanted to elevate awareness of our water, wastewater, and stormwater operations.
Powered by CivicPlus, WilmingtonDEWater.gov offers a range of enhanced features like improved account management, updated billing services, and essential contractor guidelines. Consumers will also find comprehensive info. on our continuing work under the Lead and Copper Rule; our latest water quality reports; our current rate structures to help them control their costs; and regular updates on our ongoing projects and capital improvement plans.
“We’re excited about this step forward and hope the public finds the site to be a valuable resource they can regularly refer to for years to come,” said Kelly A. Williams, Commissioner, Dept. of Public Works. “As always, we thank our customers for their continued support as we work to provide Wilmington with cleaner, safer water, both today and for future generations.”
MAYOR CELEBRATES MINORITY BUSINESSES
Mayor Purzycki in September helped welcome to Downtown Wilmington two new minority-owned small businesses — 10kthelongway (404 N. Market St.) and Freakishly Awesome by Shaun Anthony (5 E. 4th St.) — at two ribbon-cutting ceremonies. At the community block party along Market Street, the Mayor also helped mark the five-year anniversaries of two other nearby minority-owned small businesses — Jet Phynx Films (408 N. Market St.) and Green Box Kitchen (400 N. Market St.). In celebrating the grand openings, Mayor Purzycki said that small businesses are the heart and soul of Wilmington’s economy. “We’re very excited to welcome these two enthusiastic entrepreneurs into this community of successful businesses at 4th and Market streets,” said the Mayor, “and I wish them much success moving forward.”
Mayor Purzycki (left) and Ryan Johnson of 10kthelongway. Cutting the ribbon at 10kthelongway (top) and Freakishly Awesome by Shaun Anthony.
Explore the Riverfront
Restaurants & More riverfront market
open
mon-fri: 9AM-6PM sat: 9AM-4PM
Stop in and enjoy fresh produce, salads, sandwiches, Mexican, Thai cuisine, Peruvian rotisserie, and much more!
