Good morning, Wilmington.

Officials said the cause of the fire that gutted the historic Mother African Union Church on May 17 at 812 N.

Franklin St. remains unknown — investigators continue working with federal, state, and private experts while the community offers its support.

SMU DataArts released its 10th annual Arts Vibrancy Index on June 25, placing Delaware 11th among states and Wilmington 57th among communities — the index measures arts supply, demand, and government support from over 900 areas.

Delaware’s Dan Stabb won on NBC’s Password in a clip provided by NBCUniversal — his quick thinking impressed viewers on the popular game show.

Beach events heat up the summer as the Running of the Bull takes place tomorrow in Dewey Beach, drawing locals along Coastal Highway, and upcoming Fourth of July celebrations in Lewes, Rehoboth, and Bethany include parades, live music, and fireworks.

The US Regional Arts Organizations (USRAO's) announced the Walking Together grants on June 25, awarding $3.34 million statewide to 96 grantees; Wilmington’s Terry Sammons received $15,000 for beadwork supplies and Claymont’s Treinta Y Tres Delaware Rueda got a $50,000 grant to expand Cuban dance classes.

Delaware students won six national championships at the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference in Atlanta earlier this month, earning 44 Skill Point Certificates with 119 delegates in attendance.

The record-breaking performance follows a year of strong growth, with SkillsUSA Delaware now having 1,233 student members and 20 active chapters.

UD researchers discovered that Antarctic glaciation shifted Earth’s glacial cycles from 41,000 to 100,000 years by altering deep ocean circulation (using samples from IODP Expedition 383 collected in 2019), and their study published on June 25 offers key insights for future climate predictions.

On June 25, the Delaware Environmental Institute selected three UD professors as 2026 Faculty Fellows to support community-driven environmental projects in Delaware.

Their work will launch climate risk assessments, improved weather forecasting & collaborations that boost sustainable innovation for local residents.

Rep. Bill Bush introduced House Bill 335, which would force online lottery players to purchase prepaid cards in retail stores—making Delaware the only state with such a requirement—to support small businesses; Lottery Director Helene Keeley warned that the change might reduce future iLottery revenue if adopted.

The closed Plummer Community Corrections Center in Northeast Wilmington may soon become affordable housing as the state bond bill funds $760,000 to tear it down and allows the Wilmington Housing Authority to purchase it for $1.

This plan follows resident calls for closer, local facilities.

Philly Ska Jazz Quartet

9:30 p.m. — The Nomad Bar — No cover charge — Experience the vibrant fusion of traditional Jamaican jazz with the Philly Ska Jazz Quartet.

Fourth of July Celebration on the Riverfront

2-10:30 p.m. — Riverfront Wilmington — Free entry — Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with music, food, and fireworks along the Christina River.

Latin Friday Night

9:15 p.m. — Take The Lead Dance Studio — $15 at the door — Experience the vibrant energy of Delaware's largest Latin dance party with a mix of salsa, bachata, and more.

Shady Grove Music Festival Featuring Heavy Temple

12-3 p.m. — Arden Club — Free entry — Celebrate original music in a family-friendly outdoor environment.

Matt Maeson Concert

8 p.m. — The Queen — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of emotive music from rising artist Matt Maeson.

Third Thursdays at Nemours Estate

5-8 p.m. — Nemours Estate — Local food truck offerings and live music — Enjoy the gardens while sipping beer and savoring bites from local vendors.

Concert by Taj Mahal

8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Grand Opera House — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening with the legendary blues musician at a historic venue.

Nike Field Hockey Camp at Banning Park

9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. — Banning Regional Park — $399 — Elevate your field hockey skills with expert coaching in a supportive environment.

Luther Re-Lives Featuring William 'Smooth' Wardlaw

5-8:30 p.m. — P.S. DuPont Middle School — Refunds up to 7 days before event — Enjoy the soulful sounds of Luther as William 'Smooth' Wardlaw brings his style to life.