15th Annual Eventto Feature 27 Acts

MAGAZINE

JUNE 2012Vol. 3 ISSUE 12

Fun on theRiverfront

Complete Schedule and Line-Up of Performers page 9

ALSO INSIDE: Finalists of Riverfront Photo Contest page 12this issue

• Ninth Street Moves to Market Street• Cool Music Choices for a Hot Summer• Riverfront August Activities Calendar

AUGUST 2012Vol. 4 ISSUE 2

8_Wilmington_Cover.indd 1 7/24/12 5:15 PM

RESPECT THE SIGN. ARRIVE ALIVE DE

That guy! The one who cuts people off, merges without looking, ignores yield signs, tailgates, rolls through stop signs, speeds, passes on the shoulder and runs red lights. That’s the guy police

are looking for. How many of these traffic rules do you break at one time? Break three or more and it could cost you up to $300. Plus you could lose your license and have to attend driver behavior

modification classes. Are you that guy? Take our quiz to find out at AggressiveDrivingDE.com

OHS 10773 Agg Print V3 8x10.5_Layout 1 4/11/12 3:15 PM Page 1

8_Inside.indd 3 7/24/12 5:04 PM

OA080012

UD is for you.What do you need to finish that degree?

At UD you can take courses in the evening, during the day, or online…in Newark orWilmington… whatever suits your hectic life.

We have academic advising and careercounseling just for returning students like you.

You know you need the credential. UD makes it possible.

Visit www.pcs.udel.edu/credit/ for details, or contact us at 302/831-7600 or continuing-ed@udel.edu.

The University of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity University.

2301 Kentmere ParkwayWilmington, DE 19806302.571.9590delart.org

Enjoy bluegrass band Boulevard Express and a delicious BBQ dinner with all the fi xins’ at this relaxed family-friendly picnic in the Museum’s Copeland Sculpture Garden! Blankets and lawn chairs encouraged.

Hosted by the Renaissance Social Group of the Delaware Art Museum—promoting art appreciation through dialogue, discovery, and social activities.

Photography by Alessandra Nicole.

$35 per person ($17.50 for kids 12 and under) Purchase tickets at delart.org.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 16 | 6:00 P.M. – 9:00 P.M.

BBQ & BLUEGRASS

8_Wilmington Inside.indd 1 7/24/12 5:07 PM

Produced by

TSN Publishing, Inc. PresidentGerald duPhily

Contributing EditorBob Yearick

Art DirectorShawna Sneath

Production ManagerMatt Loeb

Advertising SalesJim Hunter Miller

Marie Graham

Project Manager Christine Serio

Contributing WritersJosephine Eccel, Carol Kipp,Michelle Kramer-Fitzgerald,

Larry Nagengast, Scott Pruden,

Contributing PhotographersJoe del Tufo, Tim HawkLes Kipp, Matt Urban

For editorial and advertising information:p (302) 655-6483f (302) 654-0569

TSN Media, Inc.307 A Street

Wilmington, DE 19801

What GoodIs YourWebsiteIf NobodyCan Find It?

.com

SEOCampaignsStarting @99 Bucks

3 0 2 - 6 5 5 - 9 9 4 9

8_Wilmington Inside.indd 2 7/24/12 8:46 PM

15 Years of the BluesThe Riverfront Blues Festival has become a regional happening.This year, 27 acts are scheduled to perform. By Scott Harrison

7 Cover Story

Chill Out

Produced by

TSN Publishing, Inc. PresidentGerald duPhily

Contributing EditorBob Yearick

Art DirectorShawna Sneath

Production ManagerMatt Loeb

Advertising SalesJim Hunter Miller

Marie Graham

Project ManagerCarrie Gray

Contributing WritersJosephine Eccel, Carol Kipp,Michelle Kramer-Fitzgerald,

Larry Nagengast, Scott Pruden,

Contributing PhotographersJoe del Tufo, Tim HawkLes Kipp, Matt Urban

For editorial and advertising information:p (302) 655-6483f (302) 654-0569

TSN Media, Inc.307 A Street

Wilmington, DE 19801

August 2012 volume 4, issue 2

Cool music choices for a hot summer in the city. By Michelle Kramer-Fitzgerald

6 The Arts

13 BusinessNinth Street Moves to Market Street

4 “in” Calendar

10 On the Riverfront

14 City Notes

15 Wilmington Renaissance News

all rights reserved

ABOUT THE “IN” CAMPAIGNWilmington is truly in the middle of it all, and the “in” campaign is a celebration of the accomplishments we continue to achieve as a community to make our city stronger and more attractive. From neighborhood and business development to our arts and cultural scene, the people of Wilmington are working together to support our city’s ongoing growth and prosperity.

ABOUT WILMINGTON MAGAZINEThe mission of Wilmington Magazine is to capture, through stories and images, the ongoing energy present in the city. We aim to inform readers, both inside and outside Wilmington, of the city’s residential, financial, and cultural progress while remaining entertaining and vibrant.

Wilmington’s iconic book shop gets a new lease on life. By Matt Amis

Departments

On the cover: Amy Miller and Lenny Hess dance to Kenny Wayne Sheppard at the 2007 Riverfront Blues Festival. photo by Tim Hawk

3

8_Wilmington Inside.indd 3 7/25/2012 1:48:42 PM

WHAT’S ‘IN’ FOR AUGUST 2012

MUSIC ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FOOD & DRINK

IN Pin Design Contest

Saturday Bluegrass Jams

Gin Blossoms

2012 Shipyard Summer Concert Series

Fragile Boundaries

Happy Hour Yoga Session and Wine Tasting

Brandywine Family Film Festival

Art on the Town

Sunset Jazz Series

Bye Bye Birdie

PawPaw Folk Festival

Riverfront Blues Festival

Wednesdays on the Water Wine Cruise

Spin for Jim

Joan Osborne (Acoustic Duo Show)

Think you’ve got what it takes to design the next IN pin? Prove it - let us see What’s IN to you! • bitly.com/MxgfNS

Woodside Farm Creamery 1310 Little Baltimore Rd • 302.239.9847 bitly.com/MxgfO4

Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park 80 Rosa Parks Drive • 302.425.4890 bitly.com/MxgdWq

World Cafe Live at the Queen 500 North Market Street • 302.994.1400 bitly.com/Mxgg4k

Dravo Plaza • Justison St. • 302.425.4890 bitly.com/MxgfO0

Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts 200 S. Madison Street • 302.656.6466 bitly.com/NO1o3l

5:30pm World Cafe Live at the Queen 500 N. Market St. • bitly.com/NO1ojD

Delaware Museum of Natural History 4840 Kennett Pike • bitly.com/NO1ojF

Discover all the amazing artists in your backyard! Starts/Ends at the DCCAbitly.com/NO1o3p

5pm-8pm The Grand Opera House 818 N. Market Street • 302.658.7897 bitly.com/NO1o3n

New Candlelight Theatre 2208 Millers Rd. • 302.475.2313 bitly.com/MxgfO6

Blue Ball Barn 1914 West Park Drive • 302.577.1164 bitly.com/NO1pUS

5:30, 6:30 & 7:30pm Dravo Plaza 302.425.4890 • bitly.com/MxgfNW

Bellefonte Cafe • 804 Brandywine Boulevard • 302.761.9175 bitly.com/NO1pUQ

World Cafe Live at the Queen 500 N. Market St. • bitly.com/MxgecI

NOW - FRIDAY, AUGUST 24

EVERY SATURDAY, 1PM - 5PM

THURSDAY, AUGUST 16, 8PM

THURSDAYS THRU AUGUST 30

NOW - SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16

TUESDAYS THRU AUGUST 28

FRI, AUG 17 - SUN, AUG 19

FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 5PM

WEDNESDAYS THRU AUGUST 15

NOW - SATURDAY, AUGUST 25

SATURDAY, AUGUST 25, 10AM

FRIDAY, AUG 3 - SUNDAY, AUG 5

WEDNESDAYS THRU AUGUST 29

2ND SATURDAY EVERY MONTH

TUESDAY, AUGUST 28, 8PM

IN Wilmington WeekA 9 day celebration of everything arts & entertainment #INWilm! Visit inWilmingtonDE.com for more.

SAVE THE DATE! SEPT 22- SEPT 30

8_Wilmington Inside.indd 4 7/25/12 10:10 AM

WHAT’S ‘IN’ FOR AUGUST 2012

MUSIC ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT FOOD & DRINK

IN Pin Design Contest

Saturday Bluegrass Jams

Gin Blossoms

2012 Shipyard Summer Concert Series

Fragile Boundaries

Happy Hour Yoga Session and Wine Tasting

Brandywine Family Film Festival

Art on the Town

Sunset Jazz Series

Bye Bye Birdie

PawPaw Folk Festival

Riverfront Blues Festival

Wednesdays on the Water Wine Cruise

Spin for Jim

Joan Osborne (Acoustic Duo Show)

Think you’ve got what it takes to design the next IN pin? Prove it - let us see What’s IN to you! • bitly.com/MxgfNS

Woodside Farm Creamery 1310 Little Baltimore Rd • 302.239.9847 bitly.com/MxgfO4

Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park 80 Rosa Parks Drive • 302.425.4890 bitly.com/MxgdWq

World Cafe Live at the Queen 500 North Market Street • 302.994.1400 bitly.com/Mxgg4k

Dravo Plaza • Justison St. • 302.425.4890 bitly.com/MxgfO0

Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts 200 S. Madison Street • 302.656.6466 bitly.com/NO1o3l

5:30pm World Cafe Live at the Queen 500 N. Market St. • bitly.com/NO1ojD

Delaware Museum of Natural History 4840 Kennett Pike • bitly.com/NO1ojF

Discover all the amazing artists in your backyard! Starts/Ends at the DCCAbitly.com/NO1o3p

5pm-8pm The Grand Opera House 818 N. Market Street • 302.658.7897 bitly.com/NO1o3n

New Candlelight Theatre 2208 Millers Rd. • 302.475.2313 bitly.com/MxgfO6

Blue Ball Barn 1914 West Park Drive • 302.577.1164 bitly.com/NO1pUS

5:30, 6:30 & 7:30pm Dravo Plaza 302.425.4890 • bitly.com/MxgfNW

Bellefonte Cafe • 804 Brandywine Boulevard • 302.761.9175 bitly.com/NO1pUQ

World Cafe Live at the Queen 500 N. Market St. • bitly.com/MxgecI

NOW - FRIDAY, AUGUST 24

EVERY SATURDAY, 1PM - 5PM

THURSDAY, AUGUST 16, 8PM

THURSDAYS THRU AUGUST 30

NOW - SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16

TUESDAYS THRU AUGUST 28

FRI, AUG 17 - SUN, AUG 19

FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 5PM

WEDNESDAYS THRU AUGUST 15

NOW - SATURDAY, AUGUST 25

SATURDAY, AUGUST 25, 10AM

FRIDAY, AUG 3 - SUNDAY, AUG 5

WEDNESDAYS THRU AUGUST 29

2ND SATURDAY EVERY MONTH

TUESDAY, AUGUST 28, 8PM

IN Wilmington WeekA 9 day celebration of everything arts & entertainment #INWilm! Visit inWilmingtonDE.com for more.

SAVE THE DATE! SEPT 22- SEPT 30

8_Wilmington Inside.indd 5 7/24/12 5:13 PM

August 20126 . The ArTs

Cool Music Choices for a Hot Summer in the CityBy Michelle Kramer-Fitzgerald

Finding relief from this summer’s heat has been a challenge, so I’ve found some “ArtStuff ” that’s cool for you and your wallet: a bevy of free Wilmington-area summer concert series that offer genres for every listening ear. Take a musical tour with me, complete with insider tips…

Summer Salon Series & Sunset Jazz Series at The Grand Opera House

The Grand gives you two chances to enjoy great local music. The Summer Salon Series features outdoor performances from the Grand’s Arts Academy students to world beats and classical works. Bring your lunch and relax with mid-day music on Market. Later, the Sunset Jazz Series—hosted by local musician Shaun Dougherty —delivers an end-of-day treat with the area’s best jazz musicians, along with happy hour specials and small plates from Chelsea Tavern. Insider tip: The “Sunset Signature Cocktail” is a winner. Give it a try.

Wednesdays at noon and 5 p.m., through Aug. 15Grand Opera House, 818 N. Market St.

IN the Park Summer Lunchtime Concert Series at H.B. DuPont Park

The City of Wilmington offers awesome summer sounds that drift upward between the tall bank buildings framing H.B. Dupont Park. This lunchtime concert series comes alive with a diverse line-up of acts like Second Chance Blues, Brooklyn 35 and my favorite, World music from the fabulously eclectic ensemble IKIBEAT. In the event of rain, concerts move indoors to Basil Restaurant in the Sheraton Suites Hotel. Insider tip: Just down the block from H.B., Presto! Gourmet has excellent take-out lunch choices as well as good coffee and smoothies. Tell them I sent you!

Fridays at noon through Aug. 31H.B. DuPont Park (Washington Street between 10th & 11th

Streets)

Shipyard Summer Concert Series at Dravo PlazaThis outdoor series under the colorful cranes at Dravo treats

concertgoers to jazz with Red Alert Band, folk with Danny Quinn, and Dixieland jazz with the Barbone Street Band, all with the scenic backdrop of Wilmo’s Riverfront. For more info, call 425-4890, ext.109. Insider tip: Stop by Big Fish Grill beforehand for delicious (and affordable) happy hour food and drink specials (at the bar only).

Thursdays at 7 p.m. through Aug. 26Under the cranes at Dravo Plaza, Justison Street next to the

Shipyard Shops

Rockford Tower Summer Concert SeriesBring a picnic and lawn chair, and relax under the shadow of

Rockford Tower for music variety featuring the likes of the Karen Rodriguez Latin Jazz Ensemble and Pette Gumbo & Who Dat Band. For more info, call the Concert Hotline at 222-7436. Insider tip: During the concerts, access to Rockford Tower is available.

Mondays at 6:30 p.m. through Aug. 132000 Lookout Drive

Lunchtime Concert Series & Summer Concert Series at Bellevue Park

Bellevue’s a truly beautiful setting for this series, with its outdoor amphitheater featuring everything from reggae to the bluegrass/folky sounds of Whirled Peas to show tunes. Enjoy the sounds as you stroll through the property, which is filled with historic charm. For more info, call the Concert Hotline at 761-6965. Insider tip: Afterward, head to nearby Bellefonte Café on Brandywine Boulevard for nosh and a solid bar menu…say hello to proprietor Donna Rego for me.

Wednesdays at noon Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. through Aug. 26800 Carr Road

Saturday Bluegrass Jams at Woodside Farm CreameryRegional bluegrass musicians gather to play on the grounds

of Woodside Farm Creamery (weather permitting). Performances are free for audiences and jam participants. Insider tip: Woodside’s homemade ice cream is a “don’t miss.” Sample the fun flavors like peanut butter & jelly, cake batter, and dirt.

Saturdays at 1 p.m., Aug. 4 through 251310 Little Baltimore Road, Hockessin

Finally, in a fun twist—connecting art and this month’s pizza theme—noted Delaware folk artist Eunice LaFate will unveil new works during Wilmington’s Art on the Town on Friday, Aug. 3. Her exhibition, “Diverse Perspectives,” will feature paintings “The Art of Pizza.” Her venue? None other than the LoMa hot spot, Extreme Pizza at 201 N. Market St.

Enjoy the rest of your summer, arts pals, and get ready for an art-filled fall just around the corner!

8_Wilmington_Arts.indd 2 7/24/12 5:27 PM

Aug. 3-5 marks the 15th annual event

By Scott Harrison

7

RIVERFRONT BLUES FEST FEATURES 27 BANDS

If you’re part of that legion of people who believe “there ain’t nothin’ like the blues,” then make plans to head to the

Wilmington Riverfront on the first weekend in August. That’s when Wilmington will host its 15th annual Riverfront Blues Festival.

“We have a heck of a line up this year; a really stellar selection,” says Gene Fontana, founder of the Diamond State Blues Society (DSBS).

The event will showcase 27 bands on two stages. Other features include a harmonica workshop conducted by Gary Allegretto, winner of the festival’s 2011 “Keeping the Blues Alive” award, and a jam band session tent led by veteran Delaware bluesman Gary Cogdell, who will discuss the history of the blues in Delaware.

The DSBS, whose goal is to preserve this musical genre, was formed in1997 and was inspired by

a vast local following and Fontana’s passion for the blues. DSBS, which put on the first St.Georges Blues Fest earlier this summer, works closely with Tina Betz, Wilmington’s director of Cultural Affairs, and others to make the festival as pure as possible.

Despite this close working relationship with the city, Fontana, who has been in charge of selecting the performers for the last 11 years, expresses concern about a new administration.

“I hope the festival continues,” he says. “I would hate to see something that’s become so big and loved end, but we have a new mayor coming in next year and they may have a different outlook on the event.”

The blues celebration generates plenty of business for restaurants, bars, and hotels. It also demonstrates the cultural growth of the city.

James Cottonphoto by Paul Natkin

–continued on page 9

JoAnn Clark and Mike Gutierrez of Newark watch Kenny Wayne Sheppard at the Blues Fest. photo By Tim Hawk

8_Wilmington_CoverPackage.indd 3 7/24/12 5:24 PM

Bandwagon Stage

Friday6:15 PM:

Club Phred

8:00 PM: Second Chance Blues Band

Saturday1:00 PM:

alicia Maxwell & the diamond dawgs

2:45 PM: gary allegretto

4:30 PM: the Billy Pierce Band

6:15 PM: Johnny never & the Solar Pimps

8:00 PM: lower case blues band

Sunday2:00 PM:

James day

4:00 PM: nuthin’ But trouble

Fri., aug. 3th4:30PM - gateS oPen

5:00 PM: Southern hospitality

featuring J.P Soars, damon Fowler & Victor wainwright

6:45 pm: Mitch woods & his

rocket 88’s

8:30 pm: Lil ed & the Blues imperials

10:30 PM– 1:30 aM:

diamond State Blues Society

aFterParty hosted by Mikey

Junior & Stone Cold Blues

2012 BlueS FeSt

LineupSat., aug. 4th11aM - gateS oPen

12:00 PM: Blue Cat Blues

1:30 PM: albert Castiglia

3:15 PM: Zac harmon

5:00 PM: Chris Cain

6:45 PM: Maria Muldaur

8:30 PM: Kenny neal Family Band

Check out Garry Cogdell & His Sessions Tent between

acts on the Main Stage

10:30 pm - 1:30 am: diamond

State Blues Society aFter-

Party hosted by dave Fields

Left: Lonnie Brooks above: wayne Baker Brooksphotos by Connie Dee Taylor

Sun, aug. 5th11:30aM - gateS oPen

12:30 PM: the nighthawks

2:30 PM: royal Southern Brother-

hood featuring devon allman, Mike Zito, Cyril neville, Charlie wooten

& willie green

4:30 PM: Brooks Family Blues

dynasty featuring Lonnie Brooks, ronnie Brooks &

wayne Baker Brooks

Check out Garry Cogdell & His Sessions Tent between

acts on the Main Stage

8_Wilmington_CoverPackage.indd 4 7/24/12 5:24 PM

Ronnie Brooks Lil Ed

“We get a good turnout as far as guests in the hotel and we get a good amount of business from that,” says Courtney Hall, chef at Basil Restaurant. “It doesn’t just help us, though; it’s good for the public too.”

This year the DSBS will sponsor two after-parties at Basil, in the Sheraton Hotel on Delaware Avenue, starting at 10:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. There will be live music by Mikey Junior and Stone Cold Blues as well as Dave Fields.

The Friday night headliner at the festival will be Lil’ Ed Williams and his band, the Blues Imperials. Born in Chicago in 1955, Williams was surrounded by music as a kid, playing three instruments by the time he was 12. He formed the Blues Imperials in 1975.

The band will play cuts from its current CD, Jump Start, which includes electrifying slides, picking, and, according to Williams, meaningful lyrics that his wife helped to write.

“Blues is more than the music, it’s how you live day by day,” Williams says. “It’s what you see around you and how you feel. Everyone has the blues in some sort of way because everyone has their ups and downs.”

Williams has played the festival before, and he says

Riverfront Blues Fest Features 27 Bands –continued from page 7

Left: Lonnie Brooks Above: Wayne Baker Brooksphotos by Connie Dee Taylor

The Lowrider Band

he enjoys the vibe of the crowd at the festival and the camaraderie of other musicians.

“Us musicians should stick together,” he says. “We’re all out here for the same purpose—to make people forget about their troubles.”

Tickets are available at inwilmington.com in a three-day package for $50 and as individual day passes for $20. Children 12 and under are free. All tickets must be picked up at two will-call locations: the corner of French Street and Rosa Parks Drive or Market Street and Rosa Parks Drive.

8_Wilmington_CoverPackage.indd 5 7/24/12 5:25 PM

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1. Amtrak Station2. Opera Delaware Studios/City Theater Co.3. Wilmington Youth Rowing Assn., WYRA.ORG4. Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park5. Residences at Christina Landing6. Asnan Sushi Bar & Asian Cuisine, ASNANRESTAURANTS.COM7. Harry’s Seafood Grill / Riverfront Market, HARRYS-SAVOY.COM8. Delaware Theatre Co., DELAWARETHEATRE.ORG9. FireStone Roasting House, FIRESTONERIVERFRONT.COM10. Cosi at the Barclays Crescent Building, GETCOSI.COM

11. Hare Pavilion/Riverwalk12. AAA Mid-Atlantic Travel Center, AAAMIDATLANTIC.COM13. Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts, THEDCCA.ORG14. Justison Landing, Currie Hair, Skin & Nails, CURRIEDAYSPA.COM Veritas Wine & Spirits, VERITASWINESHOP.COM 15. Kooma, KOOMASUSHI.COM CrossFit Riverfront, CFRIVERFRONT.COM16. Delaware Children’s Museum, DELAWARECHILDRENSMUSEUM.ORG

MAP OF

RIVERFRONT

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11. Hare Pavilion/Riverwalk12. AAA Mid-Atlantic Travel Center, AAAMIDATLANTIC.COM13. Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts, THEDCCA.ORG14. Justison Landing, Currie Hair, Skin & Nails, CURRIEDAYSPA.COM Veritas Wine & Spirits, VERITASWINESHOP.COM 15. Kooma, KOOMASUSHI.COM CrossFit Riverfront, CFRIVERFRONT.COM16. Delaware Children’s Museum, DELAWARECHILDRENSMUSEUM.ORG

17. Joe’s Crab Shack, JOESCRABSHACK.COM18. Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant, IRONHILLBREWERY.COM19. Public Docks20. Big Fish Grill, BIGFISHRIVERFRONT.COM21. Frawley Stadium, BLUEROCKS.COM Delaware Sports Museum & Hall of Fame22. Chase Center on the Riverfront, CENTERONTHERIVERFRONT.COM23. Dravo Plaza & Dock24. Shipyard Center Planet Fitness, PLANETFITNESS.COM

25. Timothy’s Restaurant, TIMOTHYSONTHERIVERFRONT.COM Molly’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream, MOLLYSICECREAM.COM Ubon Thai Restaurant26. Wilmington Rowing Center, WILMINGTONROWING.ORG27. Russell W. Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge/ DuPont Environmental Education Center, DUPONTEEC.ORG28. DART Park-n-Ride Lot

28

Photo by Dick Dubroff of Final Focus Photography

RIVEFRONT FAMILY FEST

August 18Chase Center

WEDNESDAYS ONTHE WATER WINE CRUISE

Wednesdaysthroughout AugustDravo Dock

RIVEFRONTBLUES FESTIVAL

August 3,4,5Tubman-GarrettRiverfront Park

THE AMAZING RIVERFRONT WILMINGTON RACE

Part of Riverfront Family Fest August 18 Chase Center

8_Wilmington_Riverfront.indd 3 7/24/12 5:33 PM

AUGUSTRiverfrontEvents

Wednesday on the Water Wine CruiseEnjoy a wine tasting on the river, every Wednesday in August. Board at the Dravo Dock near the Shipyard at 5:30, 6:30, or 7:30pm, for a one-hour cruise with hand selected wines from Veritas Wine + Spirits. This unique outing is perfect for happy hour or an after-dinner drink! Cost is $15 per person, which includes wine. Must be 21 or older. Cash only.Dravo Plazariverfrontwilm.com/destinations/river-taxi

shipyard summer ConCert seriesThursday nights throughout August7-8:30 p.m

August 2:Tony Sands August 9: Urband Ledgend August 16: The Barbone Street BandAugust 23: Danny Quinn August 30: Red Alert Band

Concert attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets to enjoyentertainment. For more information or questions regarding concert status due to inclement weather please call 302-425-4890 ext. 109 or visit our website.Dravo Plazariverfrontwilm.com

Family nights on the river taxiEvery Tuesday and Thursday night in August –Cost is $15.00 for families of (4) people or $6.00 per person. After your 45 minute ride up the Christina receive a coupon to receive 10% off of Molly’s Old Fashion Ice Cream. Dravo Dockriverfrontwilm.com/destinations/river-taxi

riverboat Queen all-you-Can-eat-Crab CruiseEvery Thursday and Friday, 7pmLooking for something fun and exciting to do this summer in the Wilmington Area? Price is $44 dollars per Adult and $14 for Children 10 and under. *includes fried chicken and corn on the cob.So come enjoy all the crabs you can eat down on the River. Reservations are required and space will be limited again this year, so purchase your tickets online now to reserve your spot! The Riverboat Queen is docked at the Public Docks behind Iron Hill Brewery.wilmingtonriverboat.com

digital photography in nature seriesWednesdays, August 1, 8, 15, 22, 6:30-8:30 pmCapture beauty through the lens of the camera. Learn how to use your digital camera effectively and to compose the perfect photo with instruction from the Delaware Photographic Society. Bring your own camera or we can provide one.DuPont Environmental Education Centerriverfrontwilm.com

riverFront blues FestivalAugust 3, 10:00amAugust 4, 11:00amAugust 5, 11:30amThe Riverfront Blues Festival is a 3 day, outdoor music festival held on the riverfront in Wilmington, Delaware.Please visit: www.RiverfrontBluesFest.com for a schedule and more information!Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Parkriverfrontbluefest.com

blue roCks vs. Winston-salem dashAugust 7-9Frawley StadiumPlease visit: bluerocks.com for moreinformation on game times and promotions.

parents night out!August 10, 6:30 - 8:30pm Set mom and dad loose to have dinner along Wilmington’s Riverfront while you stay at DEEC and have all the fun with games, a scavenger hunt and an evening hike. Dinner provided. Parents receive a coupon for Timothy’s Riverfront Grill.DuPont Environmental Education Centerriverfrontwilm.com

paCe For prevention 5kAugust 11, 8:45amBenefits Tancredi Colon Cancer Prevention Foundation. Race begins at Iron Hill Brewery. Registrations opens at 7:45am.Iron Hill Breweryraces2run.com

blue roCks vs. salem red soxAugust 10-12, 6:00pmFrawley StadiumPlease visit: bluerocks.com for moreinformation on game times and promotions.

kk’s 5k run/Walk For eosinophiliC esophagitisAugust 13, 6:30pmCome Join us for the Sixth Annual KK’s 5k! Event benefits: Eosinophilic Esophagitis Research at the Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia. Registration opens at 5:30pm.Hare Pavilliongiving.chop.edu/site/TR/Events/General?pxfid=7540&fr_id=1030&pg=fund

blue roCks vs. lynChburg hillCatsAugust 16-19Frawley StadiumPlease visit: bluerocks.com for moreinformation on game times and promotions.

3rd annual riverFront Family FestAugust 18, 11:00amThe fun starts at the Chase Center on the Riverfront, where families can play on the mega blow up obstacle courses and slides, soccer kick, Hooley ball and tee-ball. Check out the “Get up and Move Stage” with programs every hour. Move to the sounds of local entertainment. There will be food, beverages and snacks available for purchase.riverfrontfamilyfest.com

amazing riverFront Wilmington raCePart of the 3rd Annual Riverfront Family FestAugust 18, 12pmFamilies will race to complete the hunt, searching for clues, answers to riddles, collecting pictures and tokens to complete the map at participating attractions and businesses on Riverfront Wilmington. Families of 3 or more will use their skill to win great prizes including the grand prize trip–four round-trip Amtrak tickets to Baltimore, with hotel stay included!Chase Centerriverfrontfamilyfest.com

7th tour de lanCe run/WalkAugust 22, 6:30pmBenefits the Lance Armstrong Foundation, Cancer Care Connection, and Gift of Life Donor program. Registration begins at 5pm.Dravo Plazaraces2run.com

august QuarterlyAugust 25, 12:30-6pmAugust 26, 12-6pmTubman-Garrett Riverfront Park

Christina river saFariAugust 25, 1 – 3pm Cruise Wilmington’s rivers on a pontoon boat and search for wildlife. Use binoculars to identify birds, try your luck at fishing with a cast net, and spy basking turtles. How many species of riverside animals can we find? The results of the cruise will be posted on the DNS blog, so keep your eyes peeled!DuPont Environmental Education Centerriverfrontwilm.com

blue roCks vs. myrtle beaCh peliCansAugust 27-30Frawley StadiumPlease visit: bluerocks.com for moreinformation on game times and promotions.

12 August 2012

8_Wilmington_Riverfront.indd 4 7/24/12 5:33 PM

Gemma and Jack Buckley were on the brink. After 35 years of running their beloved Ninth Street Book Shop in downtown Wilmington, “We

were about two weeks away from announcing we were retiring,” Jack Buckley says. “We had been looking for a new place for two years, and frankly, we were ready to close up and call it a day.”

Then the Buckleys were approached by representatives from the development firm Buccini/Pollin Group, who presented them with an opportunity to relocate to a building the firm owned on Market Street.

“As soon as relocation became a possibility, it just kept sounding better and better,” Jack says.

In the spring, extensive renovations unfolded at 730 N. Market St., the former site of Genelle’s Café. And the Buckleys, along with a crew of volunteers, a pick-up truck, and an army of hand carts, relocated their entire operation in about 10 days. “We just started hauling shelves and books, a lot of the time right down Market Street at 5:30 in the morning,” Jack says. “We did have a truck, but I’d say the majority of the store came via little hand trucks, one piece at a time.”

By Matt Amis Photo by Shawna Sneath

Ninth Street Moves to Market StreetIt’s a new look at a new

location for Wilmington’s

Gemma and Jack Buckley have owned Ninth Street Book Shop for 35 years.

The brand new, back-from-the brink Ninth Street Book Shop re-opened on Monday, June 18. But one small issue remained: It wasn’t on Ninth Street anymore.

Jack suggested they change the name to the Eighth Street Book Shop (the new location is at Eighth and Market streets), but Gemma sensed their customers’ deep connection with the name, and thought it should remain as it had been since 1983.

The store’s history actually began in 1977. That’s when the Buckleys, both former teachers, purchased the Paperbook Gallery near the corner of Wilmington’s Ninth and Orange streets. For a period, they sold both books and potted plants out of the shop as they slyly attempted a name-change by printing two-sided bookmarks with “Paperbook Gallery” on one side and “Ninth Street Book Shop” on the other. Six years later, they relocated to Ninth Street. Since then, the store has become a neighborhood landmark, endearing itself to Wilmington bookworms thanks to its impressive selection and personalized attention from the owners.

A new name would almost seem like sacrilege.

“It’s how we’re identified,” Gemma says. “A lot of people feel ownership over this place besides us.”

The Buckleys put the decision to a customer vote, and a ballot box inside the shop revealed an overwhelming verdict: keep the old name. More than 400 customers voted. “It was something like a three-to-one margin,” Jack says with a laugh. “It was pretty bad.”

Their name (and iconic lamppost logo) reinstalled, the couple collaborated with Buccini/Pollin designer Sarah Lamb to create a bright, cozy and modern-looking storefront that pays homage to the area’s history. There are exposed brick walls, and natural light

shining through bold, wall-length windows. “Very sharp,” Jack says. A few hanging photos chronicle Market Street history. A corner for children’s books is awash in oranges, yellows and greens, with ornate hanging lamps.

“It’s bright, it’s not overbearing,” Jack says. “Perfect for a bookstore.”

Ninth Street has been the perfect bookstore for its loyal customers, whether they’re dropping in to browse the shelves, grabbing a summer reading book, or picking up a best-seller, like 50 Shades of Gray. (“Those runaway hits do help,” Gemma says.)

The Buckleys credit their customers for helping the store survive lean times. “We’ve been at this long enough to know we’re not going to get rich doing it,” she says. “But it’s an avocation as much as it’s a job.”

The store survived major changes in the industry, including discount outlets like Books-A-Million and Encore Books, big-box stores like Borders and Barnes & Noble, and online retailers and the advent of digital readers.

But the Buckleys endured, thanks in no small part to their affable, personal interface with customers, and plenty of know-how.

“Books are a very personal business,” Jack says. “We know our customers’ likes and dislikes and we buy specifically for them.

“We know so many people. There are something like 6,000 to 7,000 people in our customer base that we think of as frequent buyers. You know, we still are the bookstore for the people in this city.”

The Buckleys hope to remain active at Ninth Street Book Shop for another five to 10 years. Along with their new modern space, the couple is developing their first website, which will enable online browsing and ordering. They’ve also ramped up their Facebook presence—their page kept customers abreast of construction with pictures and videos.

That the shop has survived is a victory for loyal fans. “Most cities this size don’t have a bookstore like this,” Jack says. “But we didn’t want to give it up, and our customers certainly didn’t either.”

By Matt Amis

7

By Matt Amis

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The Wilmington Trolley serves Route 32 and provides a little extra character to our downtown by replicating a turn-of-the-20th-century streetcar. While you may have noticed the trolley as it travels down Market Street, have you ever taken a ride on it? Now is your chance. In mid-July DART bus route changes took effect and there are two important changes that you should take advantage of, particularly if you’re not already a public transportation user.

First, the Trolley will now have shorter head-way times—only 10 minutes! You can easily get from one end of Market Street to the other on your lunch break. Everyone who works in Downtown Wilmington can now jump aboard. If you work on 12th Street, you can ride the trolley down to the 200 block for lunch at Zaikka Indian Grill or pick up a bouquet of fl owers from Bloomsberry

Flowers. You’ll be able to make the roundtrip during your lunch hour. Another major difference in the Trolley route is that it will no longer go to the Riverfront area. It will make its fi nal stop at the AMTRAK Station.

Besides the Trolley route changes, the Route 12, which does go to the Riverfront, will now feature later hours. If you have ever wanted to ride the bus to go to dinner at Ubon or stroll the Riverwalk, now you can. And in a few months you’ll also be able to go to the new IMAX Theater, which is expected to open by the end of 2012. Now all of that is available by bus with the Route 12 late night service. Learn about all the bus changes and schedules at dartfi rststate.com.

CITY NOTESDART Changes Trolley and Route 12 Routes

AUGUST 201214 . CITY NOTES

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Mark Your Calendar for IN Week

IN Wilmington Week is coming! This inaugural event will offer a wide array of programming that includes diverse organizations in the city. Many restaurants, arts and entertainment venues, and organizations will showcase the vibrancy of the city.

Mark your calendars now for Sept. 22-29. With the Fringe Festival, special IN Week discounts and promotions, concerts and other activities, Wilmington will be alive with fun for all. Whether you work here, live here, or are just visiting, IN Wilmington Week will display the unique features of the city. Check out all that’s “IN” at inwilmingtonde.com.

Uschy’s Cafe Opens on Market Street

Got a hankering for bratwurst or schnitzel? How about some German potato salad? If you’re a fan of German fare, we’ve got good news for you. New to Downtown is Uschy’s Café, located at 913 N. Market St. It features modern German cuisine and catering menus, and owner Ursula Roehm will greet you with a smile and encourage you to try one of the restaurant’s amazing German bakery items. Take out, sit down, catering, outdoor seating and Wi-Fi are all featured at Uschy’s. Call 654-9131 for more information and keep an eye on Facebook and Twitter for updates.

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Wilmington Renaissance Corporation

• WRC News

D o w n t o w n W i l m i n g t o n . c o m

It’s hard to believe how quickly the summer is fl ying by and that August is already here. Before we know it, school will be back in session and those lazy days of summer will be gone. But with summer still in full swing, there’s still plenty to do in Wilmington this month – especially if live music is what you’re

seeking.If you’re looking to duck out of your offi ce for a few minutes and enjoy the

summer weather, why not take in the IN the Park Summer Lunchtime Concert Series. Hosted by the Mayor’s Offi ce of Cultural Affairs, concerts take place every Friday in HB DuPont Park from noon to 1:30 p.m. through August. Located on West Street between 10th and 11th, this is a great park with lots of shade and a beautiful fountain. Check out www.facebook.com/InTheParkLunchtimeConcerts for more information.

If an after-work outdoor concert series is more your speed, stop by the Shipyard Summer Concert Series on the Wilmington Riverfront. Every Thursday evening through Aug. 30, the Riverfront’s DRAVO Plaza comes alive with foot-stomping music for all ages. Concerts start at 7 and attendees should bring their own seating. You can bring a picnic dinner or pick up dinner to go at any of the riverfront restaurants, including Molly’s, Timothy’s and Ubon in the Shipyard Shops. Go to www.riverfrontwilm.com for more information.

If a whole weekend of live blues music sounds like what you’re looking for, don’t miss the Riverfront Blues Festival. This three-day event will take place at Tubman-Garrett Riverfront Park from Friday, Aug. 3 through Sunday, Aug. 5. For information on artists, the schedule, parking, how to purchase tickets and more, visit www.inwilmingtonde.com.

This is only a sampling of all the fun that’s happening in Wilmington this month. Be sure to stay up on everything that’s going on by visiting www.inwilmingtonde.com or sign up for WRC’s weekly Downtown News by visiting www.downtownwilmington.com.

See you around town!

Staff Picks

Every month we feature a few of the staff’s favorite things that are happening in the city. Our favorites for July include (in no particular order):

1. “Spielberg Under the Stars,” a fi lm series featuring all of Steven Spielberg’s classics, is on the roof of the ShopRite on the Riverfront every Tuesday night in August. Check out theatren.org or www.facebook.com/UnderTheStarsRooftopMovies for more info.

2. The Delaware Art Museum has launched “Art Is Everywhere,” a pop-up art campaign that will use main streets and landmark outdoor spaces across the state as its gallery space. Visit delart.org for locations and information.

3. The Delaware College of Art & Design’s new student housing building will open on Market Street later this month in the 700 block. See dcad.edu for more info.

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