Good morning, Wilmington.

Immigrants in Delaware now make up 11.5% of the state's population and contributed over $1 billion in taxes in 2023.

Researchers say their numbers—primarily from Mexico, India, and Guatemala—support local business and services while some face strict federal enforcement in rural areas.

Burlington and BJ’s in Delaware are offering back-to-school deals this week as public schools will reopen on Aug 25.

Burlington deals include discounts on clothing, book bags and lunch boxes at its Dover, Newark and Wilmington locations—BJ’s is saving on school supplies at its Elsmere, Millsboro, New Castle and Newark stores.

On August 11, law enforcement in Ellendale arrested 53-year-old Andre Mullen during a search warrant at a South Old State Road home where police detained three people and recovered 44.92 grams of crack cocaine, 15.7 grams of powder cocaine, buprenorphine films, scales, and $793 in drug proceeds; he faces multiple felony charges and is held at Sussex Correctional Institution (bond $178,200).

Wilmington Police investigated a Monday shooting in the 500 block of West 9th Street—officers responded at 6:10 p.m. and found a 32-year-old man suffering a gunshot wound in critical condition.

A portion of the Cape Henlopen State Park fishing pier is still closed with 145 feet out of service since November 2023—state officials say rebuilding the 1300-foot structure will cost between $22–$25 million instead of repairing it for up to $1.5 million.

State leaders plan to hold stakeholder meetings soon as they seek bond funding for the project.

On August 12, the Wilmington Fire Department graduated 36 recruits from its 44th Recruit Academy—the largest class hired to support expanded 9-1-1 ambulance services.

The new firefighters and EMTs were chosen from 116 applicants and joined the department as it increased its emergency response coverage.

Delaware legislators passed six bills during a Special Session on Tuesday to address property reassessment and school tax changes, including one that lets school districts offer interest-free payment plans for tax increases affecting about 80% of residents and another that extends deadlines and mandates refunds for overpaying taxpayers. Lawmakers have 10 days after Governor Matt Meyer signs the bills to vote on new tax rates + may review the fairness of the assessment process for future changes.

Delaware hospital leaders say that cuts to Medicaid funding will force hospitals to raise charges for privately insured patients over the next decade—officials warn that lost revenue could also lead to higher emergency room wait times.

Music Bingo Night

6 AM – 6 PM — Makers Alley — Enjoy 25% off wings and burgers with 3 hours free parking — Great music meets friendly competition in Wilmington's best beer garden.

Back to School Bash

10 AM – 1 PM — Delaware Museum of Nature & Science — Free entry — Dive into an educational adventure with engaging activities about nature and science as summer transitions to fall.

Kid Davis and the Bullets Live

8-11 p.m. — Gallucio's Restaurant — No cover — Enjoy half-price burgers while jamming to Americana tunes from Kid Davis & the Bullets.

Afro Fest Featuring DJ Shinski

10 PM – 4 AM — Pure Flavor Lounge — Admission fee varies — Experience a vibrant night with Afro beats, food, and drinks.

Bully Proof Seminar

9:30-10:30 a.m. — Elevated Studios Martial Arts — Free entry — Equip your child with confidence and self-defense skills in an action-packed seminar.

Kid Davis and the Bullets Live at Gallucio's

8-11 p.m. — Gallucio's Restaurant — No cover — Enjoy half-price burgers while grooving to Americana tunes by Kid Davis and the Bullets.

Chaka Fest

9 p.m. — El Maguey — Ticket info available — Experience lively performances at Chaka Fest in the heart of Wilmington.

Wilmington Sports Card & Collectible Show

8 AM – 2 PM — Chambers Memorial Hall — $3 Admission — Experience a vibrant showcase of sports cards and collectibles from top vendors.

Kid Davis and the Bullets Live at Gallucio's

8-11 p.m. — Gallucio's Restaurant — No cover — Enjoy half-price burgers while grooving to the Americana sounds of Kid Davis & the Bullets.

George Thorogood & The Destroyers Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — The Grand Opera House — Tickets available — Experience rock legends George Thorogood & The Destroyers live in Wilmington.