Good morning, Wilmington.

Brandywine Valley SPCA needs volunteers to help care for thousands of animals by offering exercise, grooming and play.

Junior volunteers and others can join Shelter Skip Day today at New Castle and Georgetown sites—applications require an adult.

Round 4 of Delaware's Cutest Dogs Contest, running until 11 a.m. July 6, will narrow the field from 25 pups to 15, with later rounds set through July 16 and the winner to be announced on July 19.

Vote now to support your favorite canine.

Delaware recalls its key role in America’s founding as residents remember Caesar Rodney’s midnight ride from Dover to Philadelphia on July 4, which helped secure the state’s decisive vote for independence (a pivotal local moment).

Jane Calvert has championed the legacy of John Dickinson—an overlooked Revolutionary War figure who spent much of his life in Delaware—highlighting his refusal to sign the Declaration and later public service.

Her work aims to reframe his image as a principled leader.

A local mother is planning Chesterton Academy of Wilmington, a classical Catholic high school for families needing stronger academics and values.

The school may open in 2027 with about 23 students using an underused church or school building (details pending).

Delaware offers cool alternatives to busy beaches as locals can swim at Brandywine Creek State Park (open daily 8 a.m. to sunset) or head to the new waterpark at Killens Pond State Park in Felton, which will host theme nights on July 10 and Aug.

10.

DNREC is proposing updates to state park rules to require surf fishing reservations on peak days, ban magnet fishing except at two designated piers, and set new rules for e-bikes and marijuana (a virtual public hearing is scheduled for Aug.

5 at 6 p.m. with comments accepted through Aug. 20).

On July 3, Gov. Matt Meyer biked to Marmy's Creamery in Smyrna and treated about 50 locals to free ice cream as part of his tour to celebrate Delaware.

He headed to Odessa later and continued north on July 4.

Delaware leaders are debating where to re-display Caesar Rodney’s statue after it has been stored for six years — the figure is now on view in Washington for the 250th anniversary celebration.

They may form a committee to choose a location in Kent County when the statue returns.

Delaware craft breweries are offering lighter, citrus-flavored beers to help cool off during the hot season.

Options include Dewey Beer Co’s Light Lime Lager and Wilmington Brew Works’ Woo-Hoo Brew served at Frawley Stadium (home of the Blue Rocks), while Thompson Island Brewing Co’s Summer Pilsner is available until July.

Delaware’s adopted Ivory Coast team, which trained locally in Wilmington, lost 2+1 to Norway in the round of 32, ending its World Cup run.

Meanwhile, Team USA advanced to the round of 16 by beating Bosnia-Herzegovina 2+0 and will face Belgium on July 6 at Seattle Stadium.

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.