Issue 11.31

August 8, 2025

OPPORTUNITY ON THE MENU

SUSSEX COUNTY'S KITCHEN INCUBATOR IS SERVING UP A NEW MODEL FOR HOSPITALITY GROWTH

Some of the jellies that emerge from Marie Boulden’s kitchen will give your PB&J an edge it’s never had before. She sells flavors like orange crush, mango ghost pepper, lemon lavender, and tomato honey butter. She’s even made a jelly with redbud blossoms. “Put that on a graham cracker with triple-cream brie, and it’ll change your life,” says Boulden, the owner of Jam Session Jams.

The kitchen where these flavors happen isn’t only Boulden’s, though. She rents space in the Sussex Kitchen Incubator on Delaware Technical Community College’s Georgetown campus, sharing it with dozens of culinary startups that send their creations out into Southern Delaware and beyond. One makes specialty fermented hot sauces. Another sells soft pretzels. Some provide catering services. Read more >

A SLICE OF SOMETHING NEW

Over Memorial Day weekend, visitors to the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk undoubtedly noticed the fenced-off areas between Rehoboth and Baltimore avenues. The demolition of several landmarks — a Grotto Pizza, the Sirocco Motel, Zelky’s Beach Arcade and the old Dolle’s site —will pave the path for a boutique hotel and new retail. Read more >

SERVING UP SOLUTIONS

Scott Kammerer, CEO of SoDel Concepts, has always been committed to creating better opportunities for his employees and elevating Southern Delaware's restaurant industry. Building on this mission, Kammerer launched SoDel Ventures, designed to support hospitality professionals through innovation, service, and wellness. Read more >

FIRST TO THE COURT

Dill Dinkers Newport is proud to introduce Delaware’s first dedicated indoor pickleball facility — bringing America’s fastest-growing sport to New Castle County in a professional, climate-controlled environment. Located at 500 Water St. in Newport, the facility is designed for players of all levels. Read more >

HISTORY, HERITAGE, AND THE WORLD CUP

As the U.S. approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, communities across the U.S. are preparing to mark this historic milestone. The Semiquincentennial is not just a national event, though. It’s a local one, too, and New Castle County has a vital role to play in telling America’s story. Read more >

UPPING THE STAKES

Delaware Park Casino is creating a buzz this summer with renovations and additions aimed at enhancing the guest experience and reinforcing its role as one of Delaware’s top entertainment destination. Among the most anticipated updates is the new $5 million Outdoor Slot Patio. Read more >

BEHIND THE SCENES IN DOWNTOWN DOVER

The exciting transformation of downtown Dover is well underway, with multiple projects at various stages of development, and several groundbreakings planned in 2025. The Downtown Dover Partnership (DDP) has led the way by launching the Capital City 2030: Transforming Downtown Dover! master plan. The plan, is comprised of 10 key redevelopment sites through the spine of the central business district, including those held by public and private entities, as well as several public recreational projects to support 2,000 new residents in the Capital City. Read more >

FAST FACT: As part of the Transforming Downtown Dover! master plan, more than $100 million in investments are already underway across several priority strategies, including mixed-use redevelopment, transportation enhancements and connections, arts and placemaking initiatives, underground water infrastructure upgrades, and the development of a mobility center.

BUILDING A FUTURE THROUGH ATHLETICS

DE Turf Sports Complex is embarking on an ambitious stadium expansion project that promises to transform our community’s athletic landscape for generations. This comprehensive development represents more than just enhanced facilities — it’s an investment in our youth and our local economy. Read more >

MORE THAN PARKS

In Kent County, Parks and Recreation is more than a service, it’s a community catalyst. With every trail maintained, program hosted, and event coordinated, there is an intentional investment in the physical, mental, and social well-being of our residents. We serve thousands of people each year across our parks, recreation center, sports fields, and open spaces. Read more >