Good morning, Wilmington.

Paul Calistro retired as Executive Director of West End Neighborhood House after 35 years, with a retirement party held on Oct.

9 to honor his service.

Owner Stephen Keulmann said Old Country Gardens, a long-time fixture in north Wilmington, may close on Dec.

31 if a buyer is not found by end of 2026 as he retires; the store will still host its Christmas shop Oct. 20 (a nod to its community roots).

Delaware chose Jessica Liu of the Christina School District as its 2027 Teacher of the Year on Tuesday, Oct.

13 near Pike Creek. The elementary teacher received a $5,000 grant & a $3,000 award for her work with multilingual learners at Etta J. Wilson Elementary.

First State Educate formed a 12-member Advisory Board (local school board leaders from three counties) to guide districts in improving student literacy and adapting to a new school funding formula.

The group will advise on performance and oversight as changes roll out.

An Appoquinimink School Board member said her video on religious extremism was aimed at discussing global issues rather than targeting local Muslim communities, and she stressed that her remarks do not reflect on the town's diversity plus she remains committed to supporting students and families.

Wilson Elementary teacher Jessica Liu was named Delaware’s 2027 Teacher of the Year, receiving a $5,000 grant for her classroom initiative (chosen from 20 finalists) that promotes multicultural events and belonging.

Christina School District’s Dr. Jessica Liu of Etta J.

Wilson Elementary will be named Delaware’s 2027 State Teacher of the Year during a ceremony in Dover tonight and is also nominated for National Teacher of the Year, earning grants+accolades for her inclusive teaching style.

Local leaders are debating a plan to cap rent increases to help renters in Wilmington; some say it will ease high costs today, while others worry it could reduce new housing developments.

Lawmakers + community advocates plan to revisit the issue in Dover in future sessions.

Delaware’s Environmental Appeals Board voted 5 to 1 on Oct.

13 to send the review of the US Wind Maryland Offshore Wind Project back to DNREC after a coastal homeowner raised concerns that state rules were not followed. DNREC must now issue a new public notice and reexamine the application.

Delaware’s Blue Hens, led by freshman quarterback Tyler Bell, played on Oct.

13 at Johnny (Red) Floyd Stadium against Middle Tennessee State as they fought to bounce back in Conference USA, making key adjustments after a tight loss.

The 76ers named Brad Jones as general manager of the Delaware Blue Coats — after eight years in the NBA G League — and the team will open the 2026-27 season on Friday, Nov.

6 at Chase Fieldhouse, with CJ Marchesani promoted to assistant general manager.