Nina Gracie and Griffin Joseph of Rehoboth Beach pick Zombie as their favorite new ice cream flavor in 2012 at The Ice Cream Store 
in Rehoboth Beach. (Submitted photo by Georgia Leonhart)

A crew from The Cooking Channel will be at The Ice Cream Store in Rehoboth Beach to film owner Chip Hearn's Sixth Annual Ice Cream Social and Taste-Testing Contest from 1 to 7 p.m. on Thursday.

Producer Sheri Spitz of Susie Films Production Co. says the show is scheduled to air on The Cooking Channel Sunday, July 14, to open a weeklong series about the best ice cream in the country.

Ms. Spitz is working with executive producer Scott Galloway and field producer John McCalley to produce the television ice cream special.

After filming the event on Thursday, the film crew will be going to the Woodside Farm Creamery in Hockessin. The dairy farm has been owned and operated by the Mitchell family for seven generations, and is Mr. Hearn's sole supplier of the cream he uses to make all of his ice cream.

Mr. Hearn's Ice Cream Store has been praised as one of the top seven ice cream dipping stores in the country by Reader's Digest, and named as home to one of the most inventive ice cream flavors in the country by Newsweek Magazine.

During the event, the public is invited to taste and vote on 21 new ice cream flavors to determine which will earn a coveted place among The Ice Cream Store's list of summer flavors. The event drew nearly 1,000 participants in 2012.

Among this year's new ice cream flavors are Crack These Big Nuts; This Ish Is Off The Hook; Dirt; Peeps; Breakfast in Bed; Blood Orange Mango; The Fig's Up; Mint Milano; Minty Python; Chocolate Rum Raisin; Philly Butter Cake; and What Would Jimmy Buffett Do? It's 5 O'Clock Somewhere.

Dover Downs Hotel & Casino will host R&B/blues singer-songwriter Keith Sweat in concert on Friday, Sept. 20 at 9 p.m. in the Rollins Center.

Mr. Sweat, the innovator of the New Jack Swing, has a host of notable hits including "I'm Not Ready," "I Want Her," "Twisted," "Nobody," "Why Me Baby," "Come and Get Me," "Just a Touch," and "Test Drive." As a record producer, he discovered the group Silk, whose single "Freak Me" was a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. He also discovered the Atlanta-based female R&B group Kut Klose, which produced the hit single "I Like."

Mr. Sweat also formed the R&B super group LSG with Gerald Levert and Johnny Gill and released their self-titled debut "Levert.Sweat.Gill" in 1997. The album featured the hit "My Body," which became a huge hit single. That year, Mr. Sweat won the American Music Awards' Favorite Male R&B/Soul Artist.

He currently hosts the nationally syndicated radio program, "The Keith Sweat Hotel".

Tickets will go on sale Thursday at noon for $35 to $65 and may be purchased by calling VIP Services at 800-711-5882 or visiting the Dover Downs website.

Folk duo The Honey Badgers, featuring Kent County natives Erin Magnin and Michael
Natrin, will appear at this year's R2Hop2 beer and music festival April 27 in Dover.

The Fordham & Dominion Brewing Co. has begun the countdown to the second annual R2Hop2 beer and music festival on April 27.

The event will be held from noon to 7 p.m. at the brewery, located at 1284 Mc D Drive in Dover and will feature the music of six local bands, Lower Case Blues, The Anytime Anywhere, The Splashing Pearls, Runaway Train, The Honey Badgers and The Talent Show Act.

This event will be held rain or shine and it should appeal to a broad range of audiences. Adults will be entertained by sumo wrestling, a keg toss, cornhole and a golf simulator while children will be treated to a giant bounce house.

Throughout the day, there will be firkin tappings and a special event-only beer. Fordham Bier Dawgs and Vitale's Italian Ice and Homemade Ice Cream will be available.

The Dover Fraternal Order of Police will receive a $2 donation for every ticket sold prior to April 27. Additionally, anyone who purchases a ticket online prior to April 20 will be entered to win a night's stay at Dover Downs Hotel and Casino and a pair of tickets to Hogs and Hops.

Tickets for R2Hop2 are $20 in advance and $30 at the door and are available through the R2Hop2 website and at the brewery. Adult tickets include five six-ounce beers and a special event glass. Children under the age of 18 are free and 18-20 year olds are $10 at the door.

Comedian, actor and voice artist Earthquake will perform at Dover Downs Hotel and Casino's Rollins Center Saturday, Aug. 17 at 8 p.m.

Out of Washington, Earthquake will bring his stand-up show of improvisational and observational comedy, hitting on African-American culture, relationships and more. Earthquake's list of credits include HBO's "Def Comedy Jam," BET's "Comic View," Comedy Central's "Premium Blend" and "Weekend at D.L.'s," "Real Time with Bill Maher," and The CW's "Everybody Hates Chris."

Tickets go on sale Tuesday, April 2, for between $25-$40 and may be purchased by calling VIP Services at 800-711-5882 or visiting the Dover Downs website.

On Saturday, Delawarean Gina Scarnati, who has helped design costumes on films such as "The Hunger Games," above, will speak about
the costume design process in a free lecture at Dover's Biggs Museum of American Art. 

On Saturday, the Biggs Museum of American Art will welcome native Delawarean and Hollywood costume craftsperson Gina Scarnati for a free lecture on Costume Design and Wardrobe in Film from 1 to 2:30 p.m.  

Ms. Scarnati has worked on such blockbuster films such as "The Hunger Games" and "Snow White and the Huntsman" and the hit HBO series True Blood."  During this lecture she will examine the costume design process from conceptualization to realization. Through the exploration of various films, Ms. Scarnati will illustrate how vitally important costumes are to storyline development.

This program is planned in conjunction with "The Projectionist" exhibition, which is on display at the Biggs Museum through June 23. 

"Costumes are integral to defining the overall look of a film, and make an immediate and powerful visual statement to the audience by providing information about a character's age, social status and sense of style," said Ryan Grover, curator at the Biggs Museum of American Art. "It is very exciting that Gina is coming back to Delaware to give us this exclusive glimpse into Hollywood costume design." 

"The Projectionist" is an award-winning documentary, book, and multi-media exhibition by former Middletown resident Kendall Messick, which explores Gordon Brinckle's lifelong fascination with film and the grand movie palace.  The exhibition features a fully operational 1920s style movie theater, an outsider-art installation that was created in Mr. Brinckle's Middletown basement. Mr. Messick's documentary and photo stills of Brinckle provide a penetrating gaze into the life of the self-taught artist while revealing the influences that drove him to create such a distinctive art environment. 

The Biggs Museum is at 406 Federal St. in Dover.

The Food Network's "Restaurant Impossible" show is headed to Smyrna next week as the eatery rehab program will be filming at the Wagon Wheel Family Restaurant on U.S. 13 March 21 and 22.

In two days and with only $10,000, chef Robert Irvine and his team of designers will revamp the local restaurant. At the end of the second day, the Wagon Wheel will hold a grand re-opening where they will open the doors to the public and film the service as part of the show.

The Wagon Wheel will be taking reservations for that evening starting at 7. Hungry diners can call (302) 653-1457 to grab a table.

Fordham & Dominion Brewing will present "Animal House" on March 27 as part of the Movie Night at the Brewery series.

Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. with the music of Community Center, an indie Delmarva band. Then, at 7:30 p.m., the frat hijinks begin with "Animal House."

The film will be presented on an outdoor screen on the brewery front lawn at 1284 Mc D Drive, Dover. For $10, each viewer will receive three 10-ounce beers and all-you-can-eat popcorn. Tickets are limited and will be available at the brewery and on their website. Attendeees are asked to bring something on which to sit.

Coming up, the brewery will also be hosting the Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity 5K on April 13 and R2Hop2, the brewery's beer and music festival, on April 27.

The Delaware State Fair announced today that ventriloquist Jeff Dunham will return to the M&T Grandstand Tuesday, July 23.

Tickets will go on sale Friday, Feb. 22 at 10 a.m. at www.delawarestatefair.com. Track/stadium prices are $49 and grandstand/clubhouse seating is $44. There will not be a pit section for the performance.

This year's fair will be held July 18-27.

Tickets go on sale today at noon for Dover Downs Hotel & Casino's next professional mixed martial arts event.

In association with Cage Fury Fighting Championships, the bouts are set for Saturday, March 16 in the Rollins Center, beginning at 7 p.m. The fight card made up of professional and amateur fighters will be announced at a later date.

Tickets are $55-$125 and may be purchased through VIP Services at 800-711-5882 or doverdowns.com.

The first bout will begin at 7 p.m. Doors will open at 6 p.m. Will call will be open from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. 

The Delaware Division of the Arts recently announced the Fiscal Year 2013 winners of its Individual Artist Fellowship grants.
Seventeen Delaware artists are being recognized for the high quality of their work in the visual arts, literature, music, jazz performance, choreography, and folk arts.

The work of 85 applicants was judged by arts professionals from around the country. Through the IAF grants, the artists' achievements are affirmed, helping provide the recognition and exposure that artists need to successfully promote their work.

The artists receive a financial award — $3,000 for the Emerging category and $6,000 for the Established category — allowing them to pursue advanced training, purchase equipment and materials, or fulfill other needs that allow them to advance their careers. The public will have an opportunity to see the varied artwork by these artists as they are required to have a public exhibit or performance showcasing their work in the upcoming year.

The following are the Downstate winners of Established Professional $6,000 award: Linda Blaskey, Lincoln, Literature: Poetry: Anne Colwell, Milton, Literature: Fiction; Ann Jenkins, Milford, Folk Art: Visual; George Lorio, Dover, Visual Arts: Sculpture; Aina Nergaard-Nammack, Lewes, Visual Arts: Painting; and Karin Snoots, Harbeson. Visual Arts: Painting.

Downstate Emerging Professional $3,000 award winners are: Teresa Clifton, Milford, Literature: Fiction; Marjorie Weber, Lewes, Literature: Creative Nonfiction, Georgia Leonhart, Rehoboth Beach, Literature: Creative Nonfiction, Russell Reece, Bethel, Literature: Fiction; and Vanessa Simon, Magnolia, Visual Arts: Photography; and Michele Xiques, Milford, Choreography.

The “Ye Olde Colonial Soap Maker,” Ron Bessette of Dover, helps out a visitor at last year’s Dover Days.
(Submitted photo/C.M. Baker Photography)

The 80th annual Dover Days planning committee announced this week that applications are now open and online for the 2013 Dover Days Festival, set for May 3-5.

The following participants are needed:

· Crafts vendors, artists and artisans; resellers, home and trade show, nonprofits and food vendors;

· Parade participants including marching bands, drill teams, floats, dignitaries, civic groups, youth organizations, marching units and more;

· Pet parade participants including costumed and non-costumed pets, rolling units and floats;

· Colonial and Victorian demonstrating artisans;

· Re-enactment groups (World Wars, Civil War, Revolutionary War);

· Car show participants for a 26-trophy, judged car show;

· Corn hole tournament players; and

· Plein air artists for two plein air competitions with cash and prizes.

Applications are now online on the official festival website. Each application has registration information, deadlines and details. Applications can also be mailed, emailed or faxed by calling Kent County Tourism, producers of the event, at 302-734-4888 or 800-233-5368.

"In addition to traditional activities such as maypole dancing by 300 costumed school children, historic re-enactments and demonstrating artisans," said Lorraine Dion, festival coordinator, "Dover Days is a unique blend of old and new, such as our fireworks show on Friday evening, our lecture series and plein air arts competition."

In 2012, the event was named a "Top 100 USA Event" by the American Bus Association, the first event in Kent County to receive the honor. It is the largest festival in Kent County; in 2012, more than 38,000 festival-goers enjoyed this free-admission event, which celebrates the history and heritage of the First State's capital city.

To celebrate the 80th anniversary, the event will officially open on Sunday, April 28 with a special visit by William Penn, an historical interpreter from the American Historical Theatre of Philadelphia. It was he who chartered Kent County and ordered his surveyors to lay out the town in 1683. A lecture, workshop and performance series will follow Monday through Thursday, May 2.

Friday, May 2 events get under way at 6 p.m. with entertainment on Legislative Mall followed by fireworks. Saturday kicks off with Dover's largest parade, pet parade, more than 300 crafts and food vendors, Colonial and Victorian crafts demonstrators, entertainment stage, reenactments and more; Sunday will continue with a plein air arts competition, arts, crafts and food vendors, a vintage baseball game, corn hole tournament and a judged car show.

For more information including vendor/exhibitor registration forms, car show entry forms, pet parade registration forms or weekend lodging packages, visit the website, follow them on Facebook or call Kent County Tourism, producers of the event, at 302-734-4888 or 800-233-5368.

Dr. Basilio N. Bautista, founding president and executive director of CHILD Help Foundation and Dr. Donald A. Parks, current CHILD Help Foundation president, presented a check in the amount of $40,000 to Linda Danko, Biggs Museum director Dec. 20 at the museum. CHILD Help Legacy benefactors Dr. Amelia Bautista, Avelina Kramedez, and Barbara Parks were also present. 

Formed in 2007, the CHILD Help Foundation is dedicated to serving the needs of children with special needs in the state of Delaware.

For more information, contact Dr. Donald A. Parks at 302-242-2591 or via email at Donaldparks307@verizon.net for the CHILD Help Foundation and Jennifer Kemske at 302-674-2111 ext. 105 or jkemske@biggsmuseum.org for "The New Biggs" capital campaign.

The Biggs Museum of American Art restarts free family movie nights beginning Saturday.

Taking a page from when the Biggs had a summer outdoor series a couple years ago, the museum will present three blockbuster films in its newly renovated Grand Gallery, beginning with a special flashlight tour of the collection.

All ages are invited to bring their own seating, blanket or sleeping bag, and snack to enjoy a free movie with friends and family.

It kicks off with Dr. Seuss’ “The Lorax,” an animated adventure that follows the journey of a boy as he searches for the one thing that will enable him to win the affection of the girl of his dreams. To find it he must discover the story of the Lorax, the grumpy yet charming creature who fights to protect his world.

On Saturday, Feb. 2, audiences will be treated to “Brave.”

In the film, Merida, the headstrong daughter of King Fergus and Queen Elinor, is determined to carve her own path in life. When she decides to defy tradition she unleashes chaos in the kingdom that threatens to change her family forever. Merida uses all her skills and bravery to undo a beastly curse before it’s too late.

On Saturday, March 2, “Madagascar 3” will be shown.
Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Gloria the Hippo, and Melman the Giraffe are still fighting to get home to their beloved Big Apple. Their journey takes them through Europe where they find the perfect cover as members of a traveling circus.

All films are rated PG and pre-registration is not required.

Dover Downs Hotel & Casino announced today that Grammy winner Boz Scaggs will perform live in the Rollins Center Friday, April 5 at 9 p.m. Tickets go on sale Tuesday for $40-$85 and may be purchased by calling VIP Services at 800-711-5882 or visiting the website.

Mr. Scaggs and his band will hit the road in 2013, performing the best known songs of his career. Hits that are constantly requested like "Lido Shuffle," "Lowdown," and many others will be showcased throughout the tour.

Born in Texas and raised with an abiding respect for a wide spectrum of American roots music, he has combined rock, jazz, R&B and blues to create a trademark sound. Mr. Scaggs' current albums are "Greatest Hits Live" and "Speak Low." Doors open to the show at 8 p.m. Will call will be open 6-10 p.m.

This year's "star-studded" community arts initiative, sponsored by the Downtown Dover Partnership has been a major success with close to 30 artists, community organizations and individuals participating.

The completed stars will be hung throughout the downtown area in storefront windows. "Even though many of the stars are now being displayed, there is still time to participate, and the community is anxiously awaiting the completed projects so the downtown will be star studded once again," said Susan Johnston of the DDP's Design Committee, which is spearheading the project.

"Stars are roughly 24 inches in diameter and can be painted or decorated with any theme relative to downtown Dover," she said. "As long as they are completed and turned in by Nov. 21, they can still be judged."

The cost is $25 per star, which includes eligibility to win cash prizes of $250, first place; $100 second place; and three merit awards of $50 each. An awards jury will evaluate the completed artwork based on technical skills, most creative use of materials, beauty and originality.

Stars may be purchased at Forney's Too or at the DDP office, both on Loockerman Street.

At the Jan. 4 First Friday, stars will be made available for purchase through a silent auction during the "Meet the Artists" party set for 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Schwartz Center.

Proceeds will benefit the Downtown Dover Partnership. Artists can choose to donate 100 percent of the proceeds from the auction, or share the proceeds 50-50.

For more information, visit "Star Studded Dover" on Facebook or, contact the DDP office at 302-678-2940.

Given the amount of disruption that still exists on the East Coast related to last week’s Hurricane Sandy, Pro Poker Championship, Inc. and Dover Downs Hotel & Casino have decided to reschedule the filming of the televised series "PPC1." The new dates for the series will be Friday, Jan. 11-Monday, Feb. 11.

 “We wanted to wait as long as possible to make a decision about rescheduling the event, but given the reality that much of the East Coast is still facing devastation, gas rationing and power outages, rescheduling the event is the prudent course of action” stated Eric Ulis, president of Pro Poker Championship, Inc. “We are excited about putting on a world-class event but need to let circumstances return to some measure of normalcy first.”

Pro Poker Championship, Inc. is the sister company to Red Deck Productions, LLC which creates and airs "High Stakes Hold’em" that airs on ComcastSportsNet and other regional sports networks across the United States. 

Calling on all who love history, the Friends of the John Dickinson Mansion recently launched a membership drive to increase its support and preservation of the historic John Dickinson Plantation, the boyhood home and country estate of one of the United States’ most esteemed founding fathers, president of Delaware under the state constitution of 1776 and signer of the U.S. Constitution.

The plantation, which is operated as a museum by the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, is located at 340 Kitts Hummock Road in Dover. It features the patriot’s original 1740 brick mansion, reconstructed farm buildings and a log’d dwelling, surrounded by rich agricultural lands stretching down to the banks of the St. Jones River.

A nonprofit, charitable organization dedicated to the extension of knowledge about Mr. Dickinson and his historic home, the Friends of the John Dickinson Mansion has helped commission many projects including biographies, research, educational films and events. In 2011, the organization funded the production of a documentary film about Dickinson for broadcast on PBS stations. A new longer, more detailed version of this film will be broadcast in the coming months.

Benefits include an annual meeting and many events at the plantation throughout the year; first-hand updates on historical, archeological and architectural research in the state; and discounts on the rental of state-owned historical properties such as the Buena Vista Conference Center.

As part of the membership drive, all new members will receive a magnetic logo of the John Dickinson Plantation and a calendar of events for the upcoming year.

Membership levels include: Student $10, Individual $15, Family $20, Contributing $25, Sponsor $50 and Patron $100. For additional information about the Friends of the John Dickinson Mansion, call Dr. Andrea Pedigo at 302-228-4228.

Dover Downs Hotel & Casino, in association with Poker Pro Championships will host three nationally televised high stakes poker tournaments in the Crown Royal Poker Room starting Friday (Oct. 26). With millions of dollars in prize pools, the tournaments will draw professional and amateur players from across the country.

Fifteen episodes of high stakes cash games will be aired. Three episodes will be high buy-in final tables and two episodes of a high stakes, heads-up cash game between two world-class poker professionals. Episodes will air nationally on Comcast SportsNet in the first quarter of 2013.

The first event begins with single-table satellites Friday through Wednesday and a multi-table satellite on Thursday with a buy in of $375, culminating in no-limit hold’em finals on Nov. 2, 3, 4 and 5 with a buy-in of $3,500.

The second event begins with single-table satellites on Nov. 6 and 7 and a multi-table satellite on Nov. 8 with a buy in of $375, culminating in no limit hold’em finals on Nov. 9, 10, 11 and 12 with a buy in of $3,500.

The third event begins with single table satellites on Nov. 13 and 14 and a multi-table satellite on Nov. 15 with a buy-in of $1,050, culminating in no-limit hold’em finals from Nov. 16 through Nov. 19 with a buy-in of $10,000.

A heads-up match cash game will be held on Nov. 14 with a $100,000 buy-in and a six-handed match on Nov. 15 with a $50,000 buy-in.

For times and information on participating in these tournaments, call 302-857-3275.

The Amphitheater at Heron Ponds in Delmar, Md., wraps up five shows in October with two concerts this weekend.

Friday (Oct. 26) brings rock groups Eve6 and Everclear while Saturday (Oct. 27) welcomes country star and "American Idol" finalist Kellie Pickler and opening act Randy Montana.

Ms. Pickler was originally scheduled to appear Aug. 25 but had to cancel after the area received more than 5 inches of rain.

"Having to cancel the Kellie Pickler show was a heartbreaking decision for us," said amphitheater owner Doug Marshall.
"We had to think about the safety of the people, performers, and staff first, even if it meant taking a significant loss."

Earlier in the month, the new venue featured country music stars Diamond Rio, Christian rock group Kutless and KISS tribute band Rock Bottom.

Tickets are for the 7 p.m. shows are available online, by phone at 410-896-9600 or on site at 9536 Heron Ponds Parkway.

When tourism industry leaders and local supporters meet on Friday, Nov. 2 to celebrate tourism in Kent County, one of the highlights of this 21st annual luncheon will be the "Best of Kent County" silent auction, set for 11:30 a.m. at the Sheraton Dover Hotel.

In total, more than 80 items will be on the auction block just in time for holiday gift-giving. From overnight stays, jewelry, electronics, paintings, handbags and gift certificates, attendees will have a good chance of taking home something special. All items will go to the highest bidder.

Samples of the items include a basket of cheer from Fordham/Dominion Brewery; "Circle of Friends" pin handcrafted by Dover artist Arden Bardol; gift certificate for the "Miss Scarlett" package at Dover's new tea house, Tea for Two and a birthday party and party goods for up to 15 children from the Biggs Museum of American Art.

The event will also laud this year's tourism leaders including: Fifer Orchards, Tourism Attraction of the Year; men and women of Dover Air Force Base, Volunteers of the Year; and WSFS Bank, Tourism Partner of the Year. Tourism Person of the Year will be announced during the awards ceremony.

The event includes a full buffet luncheon, wine and beer sampling and harvest-themed designer cupcakes by Tricia Vicks, owner of Pattycakes in Dover.

Tickets are $35 each or $250 for a table of eight. They may be purchased online at http://21stcelebrationoftourism-es2.eventbrite.com/?rank=1 or by calling Kent County Tourism, 302-734-4888.

Kent County Tourism, the organizers of this weekend's Delaware Wine and Beer Festival, will have more than one reason to celebrate in 2013.

The Dover Days Festival, another Kent County Tourism event, not only celebrates its 80th anniversary next May, but also has made the American Bus Association's list of the Top 100 Events in North America for 2013 for the first time.

The American Bus Association (ABA) chose two other Delaware events that were also on the 2012 list: the Sea Witch Halloween & Fiddler's Festival and World Championship Punkin Chunkin.

The ABA evaluates hundreds of nominations for fairs, festivals, parades, exhibits, theater performances and other shows and selects those that are best to experience on a group tour. The resulting list is coveted by travel professionals, motorcoach operators and the general public.
Dover Days was lauded by ABA for celebrating the state capital city's "heritage, community spirit" and "Colonial and Victorian traditions mixed with modern twists."

The 80th anniversary celebration of Dover Days will be held May 3-5, 2013, in Delaware's state capital.

The Sea Witch Halloween & Fiddler's Festival draws more than 150,000 people to Rehoboth Beach and will be held Oct. 26-28 this year. World Championship Punkin Chunkin is a nationally known event where contestants fling pumpkins with cannons, sling shots and their own brute strength. It brings more than 80,000 people to Bridgeville each year and will be held Nov. 2-4.

The 2013 Top 100 Events in North America are featured in a supplement in the September/October issue of Destinations magazine.

Don't look now but the Capital Holiday Celebration will fill downtown Dover on Wednesday, Nov. 28 in front of City Hall.

It offers a chance to visit the new Dover Public Library from 5 to 6 p.m. for fun and kids crafts. Attendees will also be able to enjoy hot chocolate and cookies.

At 6 p.m. participants will sing with friends, neighbors, Dover and Kent County dignitaries, Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce board members and Dover Air Force Base representatives during the caroling program.

They will be joined by the voices of students from St. John's Lutheran School, The Little School at Kid's Cottage and Wesley Pre-School and Kindergarten.

The event will be capped off by the Christmas tree lighting and the arrival of Santa Claus who will stroll down Loockerman Street to his workshop at Loockerman Way. The downtown merchants will have extended hours that night until 8.

For more event information visit www.downtowndoverpartnership.com.

Last week's "The Arts Means Business" gathering at the Schwartz Center revealed the findings of an economic impact study that shows that arts in Delaware generates $142 million in annual economic activity.

As a followup to that statewide event, a special presentation exploring the impact of the arts industry on Kent County's economy will be held Wednesday at 5 p.m. at the Delaware State University's Multipurpose Room on the fourth floor of the Administration Building.

Paul Weagraff, director of the Delaware Division of the Arts, will highlight findings from the recent Arts & Economic Prosperity IV study.

"It is important that when we talk about 'The Art$ Mean Bu$iness,' we take time to consider what that means for the individual counties of Delaware," Mr. Weagraff said.

"Leaders may be surprised by the economic impact of the arts in Kent County and how they contribute to the quality of life, in fiscal terms, as well as cultural."

The Delaware Arts Alliance has held events in recent months to help galvanize the arts community in Kent County.

"It is particularly challenging in more rural settings to bring together folks of varied connections to the arts," said DAA Executive Director Guillermina Gonzalez, "But that is why we challenge Kent County artists, arts organizations, and supporters to participate in these efforts, help us get organized, and assist us in showcasing our abundant and rich arts heritage."

Attendees are asked to use the main entrance to Delaware State University off U.S. 13 and take a left. The Administration Building will be straight ahead.

The parking lot is before the building on the left.

For more information, call (302) 734-9118.

Musician and activist Henry Rollins will hit the stage of Dover's Schwartz Center for the Arts Wednesday, Oct. 31 at 8 p.m. for a spoken word show called "Capitalism." Mr. Rollins' latest talking tour, during which he is hitting the capital cities of all 50 states, winding up in Washington, D.C. the night before the election, aims to offers not so much a voting guide as an outside viewpoint – and what he calls "an unflinching quest for truth that's sadly lacking in the profit-driven American mass media."

Mr. Rollins will share experiences that include recent visits to North Korea, Mongolia, Bhutan, Vietnam, India, Tibet, Sudan, Uganda, Haiti and Cuba. And in the spirit of the season, xpect both pointed commentary and wry observations about the American democratic process as it unfolds.

Tickets for the show at the Schwartz Center, 226 S. State St., are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. They are available at www.ticketfly.com.

Academy Award-nominated actress Piper Laurie will be at Millville's Dickens Parlor Theater Friday and Saturday to screen two of her best-known films and discuss them afterward.

On Friday night, "The Hustler" will be shown and on Saturday it will be the horror film "Carrie." Both events start at 6 p.m.

After the movie, guests will retire to the parlour for a meal and Ms. Laurie will speak about the film, chat, answer questions and do book signings and autographs.

Ms. Laurie received Oscar nominations for both films, and another one for her role in "Children of a Lesser God." She also has an Emmy, a Golden Globe Award and a new best-selling autobiography - "Learning to Live Out Loud."

All tickets, which cover the movie and the dinner, are $35. Call 302-829-1071 or visit www.dptmagic.com.

The Air Mobility Command Museum has once again been named the No. 1 free attraction in Dover, according to reviews given on the website tripadvisor.com.

The museum was ranked one out of 22 free attractions in the state.

Many guests have gone to the website to give a candid review of their visit to the museum.

One visitor wrote "We've been coming to this area almost every year for over a decade and today was the first time we'd stepped foot inside this great, free museum. We had really been missing out! Aside from the excellent exhibits, which are all lovingly restored and maintained, the best part of the day was the free, personal tour given to us by one of the great volunteers, Dennis... I can't recommend this place enough. It has enormous appeal for grownups and kids alike. Go!"

Access to the museum is off Del. 9  a half mile from Exit 91 of Del. 1 south of the base. Visitors can follow the AMC Museum signs for easy access. Museum hours are Tuesday - Saturday from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Admission and parking are free and photography is welcome.

Call 302-677-5938 for more information.

Dover International Speedway is teaming up with the Fordham and Dominion Brewing Co. to present the first Craft Brew Pub at the Monster Mile during the Sept. 28-30 NASCAR race weekend.

The Craft Brew Pub will offer race fans a new variety of local, fresh brews with four featured and locally brewed beers on tap, including Fordham's Helles Lager and Copperhead Ale, and Dominion's Octoberfest and Oak Barrel Stout.

Jim Lutz, president and CEO of the brewery, said the partnership between the breweries and the Monster Mile was a natural one.

"The Fordham and Dominion Brewery is less than four miles from the Monster Mile,"Mr. Lutz said. "It made great sense for us to partner with Dover International Speedway to promote both of our local brands. We look forward to introducing folks to an easy going, craft beer that is brewed in their own backyard."

This new offering will be set in a tented area in Victory Plaza, near the Monster Monument. It will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. throughout race weekend.

NASCAR returns to Dover International Speedway for the Sept. 30 AAA 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race, the Sept. 29 OneMain Financial 200 NASCAR Nationwide Series race and the Sept. 28 American Real TV 150 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race.

On the heels of The Rubber Souls presenting a concert of Beatles music Saturday night at the Smyrna Opera House, comes word of a 50th anniversary program celebrating the Fab Four in Dover.

The Delaware Public Archives, at 121 Duke of York St. in Dover, will celebrate with a program on Saturday, Oct. 6 at 10:30 a.m. featuring Delawarean and Beatle historian Joel Glazier.

Mr. Glazier, a resident of Wilmington, is a retired Delaware public school teacher who has been a Beatles fan since 1964, when the group first achieved recognition in America. His interest continued into his teaching career and The Beatles have been used in his classroom and as part of university courses he has taught.

He has met all four Beatles and saw the group in concert when they toured the United States in the mid-1960s. As a speaker with the Delaware Humanities Forum he has given talks on various aspects of The Beatles history at dozens of Delaware schools, libraries and for various social and educational groups.

Along with the presentation, the Delaware Public Archives will have a small, temporary display of documents from its collections about the protest movement of the 1960s.

The program is free and no reservations are required.

For more information, contact Tom Summers at (302) 744-5047 or e-mail thomas.summers@state.de.us.

Multi-platinum country music quartet Lonestar will give a free concert for Dover International Speedway race fans on Sunday, Sept. 30 at 11:30 a.m. in Victory Plaza. The band will then head inside the track where they’ll perform the national anthem prior to the AAA 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race.

Best known for its 1999 hit single, “Amazed,” Lonestar has had two decades of success that include 10 No. 1 country hit songs, including 2001’s “I’m Already There” and 2004’s “Mr. Mom.” The group has amassed RIAA certified sales in excess of 10 million album units since 1995.

Lonestar is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year by releasing a new album titled “Life As We Know It” supported by the current single “The Countdown." The lineup includes lead singer and piano player Richie McDonald, Michael Britt (lead guitar, backing vocals), Keech Rainwater (drums) and Dean Sams (keyboards/backing vocals).

NASCAR returns to the Monster Mile on Sept. 28-30 with the Sept. 30 Sprint Cup Series race, the Sept. 29 OneMain Financial 200 NASCAR Nationwide Series race and the Sept. 28 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East race.

For tickets or more information, call 800-441-RACE or visit the website.

Delaware Friends of Folk will present The 21st Annual Delmarva Folk Festival Friday, Oct. 5 and Saturday, Oct. 6 at 352 Downs Chapel Road in Clayton.

The music begins on Friday night at 7 with the finalists from the three Folk Hero Contests Open Mics in June, July and August. Finalists get a 20-minute set, then while votes are being counted, last year's Folk Hero Salvage Kin will perform and then announce the winner.

The lucky act will receive a cash prize; a longer performance slot on the Main Stage on Saturday; recording studio time with Digital Street Studio which includes two hours for recording and two hours for mixing, editing, and mastering; photo shoot with professional photographer Eric Young. Tickets are $5 for Friday night only. 

On Saturday, the music begins at noon and goes until 10 p.m.

The list this year includes the new Folk Hero, Sand Creek, Chapel Street Junction, Bad Wheel Jonny and the Broke Spokes, a guitar workshop with Chris English, ellen cherry, Joe Baione Quartet, John Flynn, and the Philadelphia Jug Band.

Advance tickets for members are $15 and $20 for nonmembers. Tickets at the gate are $25 Camping is available: tents $20, RVs/campers $50 

To purchase online, visit www.delfolk.org.

Meals On Wheels Delaware's fourth annual Denim & Diamonds will take place on Saturday at the Delaware Agricultural Museum & Village from 6 to 10 p.m.

More than 600 guests will enjoy food and fine while raising money for the five Delaware agencies that deliver meals to Delaware’s homebound seniors. Participating restaurants include Abbott’s Grill, Aqua Sol Restaurant, Cantwell’s Tavern, Chop’s Grille, Circle That Date, Classic Cakes, Cool Springs, Doc Magrogan’s Oyster House, Harrington Raceway, Restaurant 55, Texas Roadhouse, Two Tree Restaurant, Where Pigs Fly, Wild Quail Golf & Country Club, Young’s BBQ and Yukon Korean BBQ! Beer, wine & spirits will additionally be provided by Fordham and Old Dominion Brewing Company, Philadelphia Distilling, Standard Distributing and United Distributors of Delaware.

The event includes live music from Doug James and Wes Davis and a silent/live auction featuring a coveted 3-digit Delaware license plate, getaways and more.

Tickets are $75 per person. To purchase them, visit the Meals on Wheels website or call 302-656-3257.

This 26th annual Amish Country Bike Tour is set to roll Saturday and cyclists may register anytime until 10 a.m. on the morning of the event.  Cyclists have their choice of five loops that start and stop on Legislative Mall in Dover. Loops are 15, 25, 50, 62 and 100-miles that explore farmlands, Amish country, as well as quaint towns and villages.

"We love to break previous records with each new bike tour," said Lorraine Dion, Director of Special Events and Public Relations for Kent County Tourism, producers of the event. 

"And 2012 is certainly a record-breaking year -- we have the most pre-registered cyclists in history with nearly 1,700 already signed up, plus we've broken our previous record of attracting cyclists from 16 states. This year we have cyclists coming from 20 states and two from England."

While the majority of the cyclists are East Coast residents hailing from Maine to Florida, cyclists are coming from California, Texas, Iowa, New Mexico, Arizona and Illinois.  In a pre-event survey, nearly one-third of those registered said they learned about the event from family and friends, "which we interpret to mean that cyclists have had such a good experience they are recommending the tour to others," Ms. Dion said.

"Flat cycling, scenic countryside, locally-baked apple, blueberry, cherry and pumpkin pie served by our Amish neighbors, a full catered barbecue meal, and the variety of food and beverages at four food stops add to the experience."

Proceeds benefit six community organizations including the Central Delaware YMCA.

The cost to register is $60 per adult; $25 for children 5-16; and free under 5 years of age.  To register, visit the website, or between 7 and 10 a.m. on the day of the event at 411 Legislative Ave. in Dover.  For more information, call 800-233-5368.

Singer/songwriter Michael Bolton will appear at the Rollins Center at Dover Downs Hotel & Casino on Friday, Nov. 23 at 9 p.m.  Tickets go on sale Friday for $35 - $65 and may be purchased through VIP Services at 800-711-5882 or doverdowns.com.

Mr. Bolton has had eight Top Ten albums, achieving two number one singles on the Billboard charts and receiving awards from both the American Music Awards and Grammys. 

His most notable hits include “When A Man Loves A Woman,” “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You,” “Time, Love & Tenderness,” “Go the Distance,” and “Just One Love"

Ocean View native Beth Cayhall's music video for her debut single from her first album was released this week.

Ms. Cayhall, daughter of State Rep. Gerald Hocker, has been working hard in Nashville, establishing herself as an up-and-coming country music star. The high-energy single "Boys Eat Your Heart Out" is off the album "Worth Fighting For," which was released this past spring.

Ms. Cayhall co-wrote all but two of the songs on the album, teaming up with writers such as Dave Robbins and Lonnie Wilson. She worked with Grammy-nominated producer Kent Wells as well. 

She is best known to Sussex County residents for her many appearances at the Annual Springtime Jamboree Fundraiser Show, in which she has performed with family and friends since she was 5 years old.

For the video, check it out here.

DOVER, Del. — The Delaware Poker Championship II main event will take place on Sept. 8 in the Crown Royal Poker Room at Dover Downs Hotel & Casino.  The guaranteed prize pool is $50,000.

On Friday, Aug. 31, a $10,000 guarantee tournament will be held with the winner receiving a seat to the Championship in addition to the night’s prize pool.  Single table satellites will be available from 9 a.m. until midnight on the day before the main event.  The entry fee for a single table satellite is $60.

Four seats will be given away on Sept. 2, with drawings held at 1, 4, 7 and 10 p.m.  Entries for seat drawings are earned for every three-hour session completed in the preceding month.

The Delaware Poker Championship II main event will take place at noon on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2012.  The buy in is $450 for 20,000 chips.  Games are at 30-minutes levels; no add-ons or rebuys.  Players who won a seat via single table satellites beginning Aug. 26 and from the seat giveaways, or who have bought in, may participate in the championship.

For more information on any poker tournament, promotion, giveaway or event, visit the website or call the Crown Royal Poker Room at 302-857-CARD.

DOVER — Dover Downs Hotel & Casino presents "America’s Hits on Parade" with the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra and The Pied Pipers Friday, Oct. 26 at 7 p.m. 

The "America’s Hits on Parade" song library includes "Sentimental Over You," "God Bless America," "Don’t Sit Under the Apple Tree," "In the Mood," "So Rare," "I’ll Never Smile Again," "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy," "Dream" and many others. 

The concert will be directed by renowned trombonist Bill Tole and features noted vocal soloist Nancy Knorr, lead singer of famed The Pied Pipers. 

Mr. Tole has recorded and/or appeared with such legends as Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Bing Crosby, Tom Jones and Pearl Bailey, along with big band directors Nelson Riddle, Bob Crosby, Les Brown, Harry James, Ray Anthony and others.  

The Pied Pipers were voted the number one vocal group of all time for six consecutive years in Billboard Magazine.  Along with Nancy Knorr, The Pied Pipers features Kevin Kennard, Christopher Sanders and Don Lucas.

Tickets are on sale for $10 to $15 and may be purchased through VIP Services at 800-711-5882 or the Dover Downs website.

Become the next Del-ebrity! Join members of the Delaware Tourism Office for a video shoot from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday (Aug. 15) at the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand to show your love for the First State’s award-winning beaches.

Be part of the video and earn a prize! For more information, visit www.facebook.com/DelawareTourismOffice.

The Fordham and Dominion Brewing Co. will present “The Big Lebowski” on Sept. 14, as part of their Movie Night at the Brewery series.

The Jeff Bridges cult classic will play on an outdoor screen at the brewery (1284 Mc D Drive, Dover) beginning at 7:30 p.m. and doors will open at 6:30.

During this time, guests will have the opportunity to grab a beer, enjoy some popcorn, play cornhole and listen to live music. The $10 ticket includes three beers and popcorn. Additionally, the sale of Fordham Bier Dawgs will go to benefit local fire departments.

“We are thrilled to host another movie night, especially when it helps to raise money for charity. Over the past couple of months, our brewery has really come to appreciate the participation of the community in our philanthropic activities,” Jim Lutz, president and CEO of Fordham and Dominion said.
“From Friday Night Fire Fights to Hogs and Hops, I can definitively say that this is the most generous community in which I have ever worked.”

Seating is limited and tickets are available at the brewery and FordhamBrewing.com. Guests are encouraged to bring a chair and bug spray.

Hogs and Hops, a beer and barbecue festival to benefit the emergency relief funds of the Dover Police and Fire Departments, is set for Aug. 25 from 3 to 8 p.m. on the grounds of the brewery.

For more information on that event, visit http://hogshopsdover.wix.com/1.

Chuck, left, and Chip Nunan stand with the No. 47 Mason Dixon
marker located at their winery, Harvest Ridge, on Westville Road
in Marydel. Harvest Ridge is Delaware's newest winery.

There will be a host of Delaware wineries and breweries — plus one distiller — at this year’s third annual Delaware Wine & Beer Festival set for Oct. 21 from noon to 5 p.m. at the Delaware Agricultural Museum & Village in Dover.
A guest winery, Great Shoals, will represent the state of Maryland, and a guest brewer — Yards — will represent Pennsylvania
Participants include:
To date, the following wineries and breweries have signed up to participate:
•16 Mile Brewing Co., Georgetown
•Argilla Brewing Co., Newark
•Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, Milton
•Fenwick Wine Cellars, Fenwick Island
•Fordham/Dominion Brewing Co., Dover
•Great Shoals Winery, Princess Anne, Md.
•Harvest Ridge Winery, Marydel
• Legacy Distillery, Smyrna
•Nassau Valley Vineyards, Lewes
•Pizzadili Vineyards & Winery, Felton
•Twin Lakes Brewery, Greenville
•Unplugged & Uncorked Sonata Wines, Millsboro
•Yards Brewery, Philadelphia
Tickets are on sale now at http://2012delawarewineandbeerfestival.eventbrite.com/, or call Kent County Tourism at 302-734-4888 for more information.

Director Paul Janiga has set auditions for “Murdered to Death” at the Kent County Theatre Guild’s Patchwork Playhouse, 140 E. Roosevelt Ave., in Dover on Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday evenings Aug. 19, 21 and 22, starting at 7.

The guild is looking to cast 10 actors — five men and five women — over the age of 16. Auditions will consist of cold readings from the script. Also needed are volunteers to fill the many production-related roles.

The play is set in an English country manor house where a murder takes place. The police are called and the bumbling detective arrives with a trusty constable at his side. The inspector trips over the clues and points fingers in every direction while never quite seeing the obvious and nailing the culprit. The other characters are those you’d expect in an Agatha Christie mystery, including an elderly busybody who seems to attract murder whoever she goes.

Show dates are Nov. 2-3, 9-11 and 16-17.

The guild starts its new season Sept. 8 with the comedy “Fox on the Fairway.” It will run for three weekends on Friday and Saturday nights at 8 with a 2 p.m. matinee on Sept. 16.

Tickets may be purchased starting Monday through the website or by calling Brown Paper Tickets at 1-800-838-3006.

Saxophonist Jessy J will headline Fall into Jazz Saturday, Sept. 8 at the Schwartz Center.

The Delaware Charitable Music Inc., has finalized the lineup for Fall Into Jazz III, the organization's annual music event which this year will happen on Saturday, Sept. 8 at 8 p.m. at the Schwartz Center for the Arts in Dover.

Headlining the event will be the saxophonist Jessy J, who has received critical acclaim from internationally respected jazz publications and aficionados across the board.

An accomplished singer and dancer, she sang background vocals for Michael Bolton, played with the Henry Mancini Jazz Orchestra and performed in the off-Broadway production of "Blast!" She's also completed studio work with artists such as Michael Bublé, Seal, the Temptations, Jessica Simpson, Michael Bolton and Mexico's pop diva Gloria Trevi.

Rounding out this event is the return of saxophonist Kim Waters, who headlined the event in 2010.

His repertoire includes traditional and contemporary jazz, soul and R&B. He carries a string of No. 1 Smooth Jazz radio hits and 20 years at the top of the Billboard Contemporary Jazz charts.

It is the mission of Delaware Charitable Music to create opportunities for young musicians to interact with each other and to be able to work with and observe music professionals in order to provide continuity between the generations and to be able to pass on musical traditions.

For tickets call the Schwartz Center Box Office at 302-678-5152. Standard tickets can be purchased for $35. Premium tickets at $45 include a pre-concert meet and greet cocktail party.

Featured performers at the cocktail party will be 12-year-old jazz trumpeter Geoff Gallante with special guests Joe Wilford on guitar, Tom Baione on bass and vocalist Alexis Baione.

Not that you may need it, but there's now an incentive for sampling some of Delaware's spirits: Those who fill out a passport and visit eight of the 12 Delaware Wine and Ale Trail sites will receive their choice of a wine glass or 17-ounce Tankard beer mug.

"The trail invites both the connoisseur and the curious to sample award-winning beers and wines at Delaware's top-notch breweries and wineries," said Delaware Tourism Director Linda Parkowski. "Enjoy a few drinks from the First State and receive a limited-edition prize for doing it."

Other enhancements to the Delaware Wine and Ale Trail include signs at each site featuring MS tags that, when scanned with a mobile ap, connect visitors with a feedback site at the Delaware Tourism Office's website, where comments and photos can be posted and shared.

The Delaware Tourism Office also responded to Wine and Ale Trail travelers who commented that they were looking for establishments that served Delaware wines and beers by adding a Delaware Wine and Ale Trail Dining section to its website. The portal boasts a list of restaurants catering to the beer or wine aficionado.

Delaware Wine and Ale Trail locations include: 16 Mile Brewing Co., Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats, Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, Fenwick Wine Cellars, Fordham Brewing Company, Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant/Newark, Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant/Wilmington, Nassau Valley Vineyards, Old Dominion Brewing, Pizzadilli Vineyard & Winery, Stewart's Brewing Co. and Twin Lakes Brewing Co.

First-day single ticket sales on Aug. 1 proved to be the most successful day in The Grand Opera House’s history.
Wilmington’s Grand opened single ticket sales for the 2012-13 season and promptly smashed previous years’ records by posting a 57 percent increase over the best year on record.
“While we see very dramatic negative effects of a prolonged economic downturn in other critical areas, it’s become obvious that The Grand’s mission to ‘entertain and engage its communities’ is on track,” The Grand’s executive director Stephen Bailey said.
The season begins Sept. 5 with guitarist Steve Vai will also feature artists such as Smokey Robinson, Stephen Sondheim, and Food Network stars Ina Garten and Robert Irvine.
Salsa star Gilberto Santa Rosa and comedians Bill Engvall, Ron White, and Paula Poundstone will also headline at The Grand this coming season.

This year's Delaware State Fair lineup showcased a record-breaking sellout show by country artist Jason Aldean this year attended by 9,609 and near sell-out shows by Sugarland and the annual Demolition Derby.

Other popular shows were Christian artists Casting Crowns with Building 429, Miranda Lambert with Pistol Annies, country stars Justin Moore with Colt Ford, classic rockers Styx and Cheap Trick and comedian Larry the Cable Guy.

In addition to the musical performances, monster truck fans enjoyed Advance Auto Parts' Feld Entertainment-produced Monster Jam featuring Grave Digger, Monster Mutt, Captain America and other popular TV-type trucks. For the first time in recent history, the fair also featured harness racing at night.

A 400-person orchestra pit directly in front of the stage was added this year. 

"The new pit section was a great success allowing fans to be closer than ever before to their favorite artists. In some cases the pit sold out in less than 70 seconds," said Assistant General Manager and Director of Marketing Danny Aguilar.

Hundreds of participants – many in costume – are expected at the second annual Dewey Beach Scavenger Hunt this weekend.

The Dewey Beach Scavenger Hunt which will feature Miller Lite-themed prizes and drink specials throughout the day.

The action kicks off at noon on Saturday with registration and a pre-party at The Starboard at 2009 Del. 1. From there, teams will race to nine other locations where they will need to answer trivia, take photos, or collect a specific item, before proceeding to the next destination. The hunt wraps up at 6 p.m. at The Starboard with a post-party, judging and awards ceremony.

Participating bars include The Starboard, Lighthouse, Gary's Dewey Beach Grill, Woody's, Hammerheads, McShea's, Grottos, Nalu, Que Pasa, Port, Whiskey Beach and Scully's. Participants can win prizes including personalized Miller Lite beach packs, coolers, grills, and tickets. All participants receive a special event koozie.

Last year's inaugural event had more than 400 participants. Teams consist of four to eight people (21 and over only), and cost $30 per team.

For details and to register a team, visit www.lindypromo.com, or contact Lindy Promotions at contact@lindypromo.com or (800) 422-7295.

The Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce will host the 34th Annual Sandcastle Contest on Saturday. More than 100 teams and 800 participants are expected to express their creativity on Fisherman's Beach at the north end of the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, near the Henlopen Hotel.

The contest is open to both adults and children. Participants may register their entry anytime between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Sculptures may be started at any time, but must be completed for judging by 3 p.m. Winners will be announced at approximately 5 p.m. Past creations have included Swamp Animals, Mermaids, Pyramids, Crabs, Dolphins, Sharks and of course traditional sandcastles. 

There is no entrance fee and registered teams will have the opportunity to purchase event T-shirts at a discounted rate of $5 per shirt.

Participants will be divided into three age divisions: Adult (15 and older), Child 7-14 and Child 6 and under. The sand sculptures must contain only objects natural to the beach (shells, stones, seaweed, etc.) 

Prizes will be awarded to the top 10 Judge's Favorites in both the adult and 7-14 child divisions. Special awards given to all participants in the 6 and under child's division. Two People's Choice Awards will be given during this year's contest.

In the event of bad weather, setup and registration may be delayed up until 10:30 a.m. If bad weather continues, this event will be postponed until the following year. If bad weather occurs during the contest, participants may continue at will or at the discretion of lifeguards.

For more information, call the Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce at (302) 227-6446 or visit the chamber website at www.beach-fun.com.

Delaware Dance Alliance will hold open auditions for its "Ballet and Jazz Nutcracker" on Saturday, Aug. 25.

The group is looking for ballet, jazz and hip-hop dancers. There is a $15 nonrefundable audition fee.

The times are 10:30 a.m.–noon for ages 7 to 11 and 12:30-2 p.m. for ages 12 and up or en pointe. Hip-hop dancers need only to present a one-minute dance with a $5 audition fee.

For more information, email dedancealliance@verizon.net or call 302-422-2633. Auditions are held at the First State Academy of Dance, 107 Maple Ave., Milford.

It was confirmed by Firefly Music Festival officials Tuesday that the successful mega-concert festival will return to the Woodlands of Dover International Speedway in 2013.

“The event was wildly successful and we’ve found our home on the East Coast. We’re excited to be amongst the leading festivals in the country,” said Director of Firefly Greg Bostrom in a written statement Tuesday.

In a surprising move, a limited quantity of 2013 general admission presale tickets will go on sale through FireflyFestival.com Wednesday (July 25) at noon with the lineup and date for next year's festival still to be determined. Prices for presale tickets were not immediately known. Neither VIP nor Super VIP packages will be available on Wednesday.

This year's three-day festival drew an estimated 30,000 people, getting rave reviews from visitors, officials and major media outlets alike. Headliners included The Killers, Jack White and The Black Keys, as well as John Legend, Death Cab for Cutie and The Flaming Lips.

The Bowers Beach Maritime Museum will present the fifth annual revival of Big Thursday on Aug. 12 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The day will include music by the Milford Downtown Dixieland Band and children's fun by Jackie McCabe.

Seafood, barbecue and Italian ice and more will be for sale.

A parade starts at 11 a.m. with a car show, local artisans, rock climbing, bungee and trampoline jumping and water guns.

For more information, email bowersbeachmaritimemuseum@hotmail.com, call 302-335-1556 or visit the museum's Facebook page.

Dover's Sarah Biscardi leads a group of young dancers from the Dover area in the Ballet Theatre of Dover's performances of dances from “Carmina Burana” and “Don Quixote” on Wednesday, Aug. 1 and Thursday, Aug 2, at 7 p.m. at the Schwartz Center for the Arts in downtown Dover.

Ms. Biscardi will dance the lead role of Kitri, the Spanish spitfire in “Don Quixote” with Justin Estelle as Basilio. Their performance will be highlighted by the famous grand pas de deux. Highlights of the piece include the “Seguidilla” characterized by quick agile footwork, the “Gypsy Dance” with its strong sweeping movements, and Dream and Market Scene. Spanish motifs and flair are seen in the use of the Spanish fan and skirts. The ballet was first performed at the Maryinsky Theatre in 1869 with choreography by Marius Petipa. The BTD production is a staging of the original Petipa version.

Ms. Biscardi will also partner with Mr. Estelle in Dances from “Carmina Burana” with music by the German composer, Carl Orff, who in the 30‘s set an orchestral and choral score using poems from a medieval text of the same name. Themes of the pieces include the fickleness of fortune and wealth, the ephemeral nature of life, the joys of the return of spring together and the passion for life’s simple pleasures. It’s most famous section is “O Fortuna”. Mr. Estelle performs as "the Young Boy", who dances with Ms. Biscardi as one of the 'Fates'.

Tickets for the show are $15 for adults and $10 for students and seniors and are available at the Schwartz by calling (302) 678–5152.

For more information, visit the Ballet Theatre's website or Facebook page at facebook.com/dancebtd.

Delaware's General Assembly has proclaimed Delaware Wine & Beer Week as Oct. 15-21. The House Concurrent Resolution was presented on July 19 to the Kent County Tourism Board by Sen. Brian Bushweller and Rep. Darryl Scott.  From left are:  Vic Schimp, Sheraton Dover Hotel; Monica Anderson, Rodeway Inn; Diane Simone, WSFS Bank; Zach Carter, At Large; Sen. Brian Bushweller; Elaine Brenchley, First State Heritage Park; Mike Leister, Air Mobility Command Museum; Heather Cregar, Delaware State News; Rep. Darryl Scott; Greg Eroe, Dover Mall; Carleton Carey, Dover mayor; Jo Schmeiser, Chamber of Commerce for Greater Milford; Jennifer Vallee, Dover Air Force Base; Monica Weber, Delaware Today; Claudia Leister, Milford Museum; and Cindy Small, Kent County Tourism.  Seated from left are Tom Smith, Delaware Made General Store; and Mike Baker, C.M. Baker Photography.

The Delaware General Assembly has designated October 15-21, 2012 as "Delaware Wine & Beer Week," which will culminate on Sunday, Oct. 21 with Delaware's official Wine & Beer Festival, to be held at the Delaware Agricultural Museum & Village.

In one of their final pieces of business for the 146th General Assembly, legislators adopted House Concurrent Resolution No. 56, proclaiming an official wine and beer week for Delaware.  The resolution was championed by Sen. Brian Bushweller, Rep. Darryl Scott and Rep. Greg Lavelle.

The bill recognizes Delaware's wineries and breweries "as a vibrant affirmation and expression of our State's entrepreneurial traditions, operating as community based businesses and providing employment."  It also recognizes the Delaware Wine & Ale Trail as a statewide "flavorful tour" and the Third Annual Delaware Wine & Beer Festival as "providing an opportunity for education regarding the state's wines and beers, including their history, culture and proper enjoyment."

"We are so pleased to have an official wine and beer week in Delaware," said Cindy Small, executive director of Kent County Tourism, producers of the Official Delaware Wine & Beer Festival.  "This helps put Delaware on the map in terms of the growing wine and beer industry.  We encourage restaurants, retailers and hoteliers to get creative with wine and beer dinners, lodging packages and more, as we introduce Delawareans and visitors to our state's craft beers and wines."

The proclamation was presented by Sen. Bushweller and Rep. Scott to the Kent County Tourism Board of Directors at their meeting on July 19.

JW's Sports Bar and Restaurant, a longtime Dover nightspot, has closed its doors after more than 20 years.

Postings on Facebook Monday confirmed the closure of the business in the Hamlet Shopping Center that started life as The Dugout in the late 1980s.

JW's was one of the few area establishments to feature live music five nights a week and drew scores of Kent Countians for Sunday afternoon and Monday night football games.

The shuttering of the business left many customers and longtime regulars, who are hoping for a buyer to reopen the establishment, scrambling for a new watering hole.

The music lineup for this weekend's Firefly Music Festival took a bit of a hit early this week when the electropop band Passion Pit bowed out of the festival and other dates. Passion Pit was due to play Firefly and also DJ an after party at the Rollins Center Saturday night starting at 11:30.

To replace Passion Pit, it was announced early Wednesday evening that Firefly had added the Brooklyn-based experimental pop band Yeasayer to the festival lineup. The official after party on Saturday night will now feature a DJ set from Chris Keating of Yeasayer. Tickets will be sold at the door. Yeasayer will take Passion Pit's spot at 8 p.m. Saturday on The Lawn. 

Passion Pit's lead singer Michael Angelakos released a statement earlier this week that he was “going to take the time to work on improving my mental health."

The Firefly Music Festival is set for Friday-Sunday at the Woodlands of Dover International Speedway. For single-day tickets visit the website. No tickets will be sold at the gate.

Milford’s Second Street Players’ 2013 season of shows promises something for everyone — a drama-comedy, a musical comedy revue, a an out-and-out comedy, an edge-of-the seat mystery and a family classic for the holidays.

All shows are presented at Riverfront Theatre, 2 S. Walnut St.

The small-town drama comedy-drama “Steel Magnolias,” by Robert Harling, opens Second Street’s 34th season on Friday, Jan. 25.

“Nunsensations — The Nunsense Vegas Revue,” written by “Nunsense” creator Don Goggin, will be performed starting April 26. When a parishioner volunteers to donate $10,000 to the sisters’ school if they will perform in a club in Las Vegas, Mother Superior is hesitant to accept. But after being convinced by the other sisters that “what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas” Reverend Mother agrees.

“Any Body Home?,” a comedy “whodunit” by Carl Ritchie and Elise Dewsberry, will be presented starting July 12.

“Rehearsal For Murder” a thriller, adapted for the stage by D.D. Brooke from the television play by Richard Levinson and William Link, promises twists at every turn. That show starts Sept. 27.

The Lewis Carroll classic “Alice in Wonderland” closes Second Street’s 2013 season with performances starting Nov. 29.

Season tickets go on sale on Sept. 1. Visit the theatre’s website for more information on all shows and tickets.

Directors for all five shows are also being sought. Anyone interested should submit a request, including relevant experience, to SSP through the website. Applications to direct must be received by Sept. 30.

"Vernoica Veronese" by Dante Gabriel Roseitti is featured outside the Smyrna Opera House.

The Smyrna Opera House is participating in the Delaware Art Museum’s Centennial pop-up art campaign titled “Art is Everywhere.”

“Pop-up” art is an outdoor museum exhibition that uses main streets and landmark outdoor spaces as its gallery space. Realistic reproductions of works of art are printed to scale, framed, and then installed in pedestrian-friendly outdoor locations — including parks, the sides of public or private buildings, and other locations where people gather.

On view from now until Oct. 1, "Art is Everywhere" includes 15 reproductions of some of the museum’s most treasured paintings. The Smyrna Opera House will feature a reproduction of “Veronica Veronese” by Dante Gabriel Rossetti.

“The Delaware Art Museum’s collection really belongs to all Delawareans,” says museum executive director Danielle Rice.

“By sharing reproductions of some of our most beloved works of art, we’re hoping 'Art is Everywhere' will spark curiosity and inspire both new and current visitors.”

In addition to the opera house, other Downstate locations include the Kent County Courthouse, Mispillion Art League, Georgetown Public Library and the Rehoboth Beach Public Library.

For more information, call 302-571-9590 or 866-232-3714 or visit www.delart.org.

The third annual Nam Jam concert is set for Saturday, Aug. 25 at American Legion Walter L. Fox Post No. 2 on Bay Road in Dover.

The event, sponsored by the Delaware Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 850, will start at 2 p.m. and end at 10.

Bands this year are Mike Hines and the Look, The Mason Dixon Band and Semiblind.

Food and drinks will be sold and no coolers or BYOB are allowed. There will be vendors, T-shirts, 50/50 raffle and an auction.

Proceeds go to maintain the Kent County Vietnam Memorial in Dover.

Tickets are $20 per person and $35 per couple. Children 12 and under will be admitted free.

For tickets, visit the website, contact any VVA Chapter 850 member or call 302-535-8304.

“Moonwalker, The Reflection of Michael,” one of the leading Michael Jackson tribute shows, will perform Friday, Sept. 21 at 7:30 p.m. in the Harrington Raceway and Casino M&T Grandstand.

The full-scale show features live vocals, live band, singers and dancers and stars Michael Firestone who brings Mr. Jackson to life. The show is 90 minutes of hits such as “Wanna Be Startin’Something”, “Billy Jean”, “Beat It”, “Thriller” and “Man In The Mirror."

Ticket prices are $16 for grandstand; $20 for stadium and clubhouse seating; and $25 for trackside. They will go on sale at 10 a.m. Tuesday on the website or may also be reserved by calling 1-800-514-3849 or by visiting the Casino Gift Shop. 

Spoken-word artist and member of the former punk rock band Black Flag, as well his own group Rollins Band, Henry Rollins is headed to Dover’s Schwartz Center for the Arts on Halloween night, Oct. 31.

Not part of the Schwartz season-ticket package of shows, Mr. Rollins is visiting every U.S. state capital prior to Election Day with his spoken-word show “Capitalism.”

An outspoken human rights activist, Mr. Rollins frequently speaks out on social justice issues and the democratic process. In “Capitalism,” Mr. Rollins will tell anecdotes gleaned and perspective gained from experiences that include recent visits to North Korea, Mongolia, Bhutan, Vietnam, India, Tibet, Sudan, Uganda, Haiti and Cuba. He will start his two-month tour Sept. 6 in Honolulu and wrap up on the eve of the election in Washington.

General admission tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Ticket information can be found on the Schwartz web site.

A local production company will film scenes of the movie “God’s Amazing Grace,” featuring actor and minister Clifton Davis at Delaware State University on Tuesday.

The Dover-based production company Calvary Pictures, Inc. will also feature Mr. Davis, star of the sitcoms “That’s My Mama” and “Amen,” in a fundraising event “An Evening with Clifton Davis” from 6 to 9 p.m. Monday, at the Modern Maturity Center in Dover. The proceeds will go toward the production costs of the film.

Full-access tickets are $75 and $50 for adults and children, respectively, (including the VIP reception from 5 to 6 p.m.) and tickets to the main event are $50 and $25 for adults and children. For more information, call (302) 736-6554 or (302) 399-6869.

The film tells the true-to-life story of two brothers from their youth to their adult years. Despite their Christian upbringing, both brothers become involved with violence, drugs and other crimes as teenagers. One brother is eventually able to break away from the immoral lifestyle to achieve great success in life, while the other brother never escapes the wrong road, eventually reaping the consequences thereof.

Producers say the movie reveals the impact of God’s grace and mercy upon the lives of both brothers, despite their very different life choices.

The screenplay was written by Dr. Warren Rhodes, Professor Emeritus of Public and Allied Health Sciences at Delaware State University, who will also direct the movie. Dr. Rhodes is also an established playwright, having written and directed two gospel musicals, “The Sermon” and “The Sermon, Part 2,” which have been performed over the last two decades locally and throughout the mid-Atlantic region.

Over the years Mr. Davis has also starred in made-for-television movies such as “Scott Joplin” and “Don’t Look Back: The Story of Leroy ‘Satchel’ Paige, as well as big screen films such as “Any Given Sunday” and “Kingdom Come.”

Mr. Davis has made guest appearances on numerous TV shows, and currently appears regularly as the host of “Backstage Pass” on the Trinity Broadcasting Network.

The film company is seeking local people who are interested in participating in the movie as extras. Interested persons should contact Dr. Rhodes via email at warhodes@yahoo.com.

The movie, which is also being filmed in Baltimore, and others sites in Dover, is projected to be released in the spring of 2013.

Those interested in the layout for the first Firefly Music Festival at the Woodlands of Dover International Speedway can get a first look, as Firefly has just released a downloadable map of the grounds.

Set in and around RV Lot 10, the map shows lots of cool little features, such as a Hammock Hangout, Shaded Pavillion, Cooling and Charging Stations, Photobooth, Arcade and more. The map also shows you where the stages will be set up, as well as the food and beverage areas.

The Firefly Music Festival is set for July 20-22. Check out the map here.

The Delaware Ballet is seeking enthusiastic new board members to strengthen and diversify the existing board. Interested individuals should have a desire to promote and strengthen the performing arts in Kent County.  Knowledge of or background in dance or ballet is not required. Interested parties are asked to a letter of interest and resume to artistic director Dan Kaiser at deballet@aol.com.

Delaware Ballet is the area’s only nonprofit 501(c)(3) ballet company. Mr. Kaiser is a former soloist with the Pennsylvania Ballet. Ballet mistresses are Kimberly Noll and Brittany Faulkingham. Though centered in classical ballet, Delaware Ballet diversifies itself by performing contemporary pieces. 

For more information, visit the website.

The Downtown Dover Partnership is seeking Delaware artists and organizations to participate in its second community art project in celebration of Delaware’s capital city and its image of a “bright and shining” star.

More than 30 Delaware artists participated in the first year of this project and they are looking to increase that number in 2012. The goal of the project is to generate visual excitement and aesthetic appeal in Historically Happening Downtown Dover, and to support Downtown Dover’s cultural activities.

“We encourage artists, students and organizations to get involved with this project, not only to demonstrate their creativity, but to also support the arts initiatives for downtown Dover,” said Bill Neaton, executive director of the DDP. He added “Dover has a thriving arts community and we are excited to be a part of it.”

The project is open to professional and amateur artists, students, community groups, clubs, schools and organizations.

Interested participants may register at the DDP office and Forney’s Too, both on Loockerman Street, or the Biggs Museum at 406 Federal St.

Artists will paint or decorate three-dimensional metal stars that are 24 inches in diameter. Stars may be painted or decorated using any media that will adhere to the metal such as fabric, beads or other materials, and stars must be able to be hung for display purposes.

All participating artists must return their completed stars by Oct. 26 to the DDP office, Forney’s Too or the Biggs Museum.

A student category has been added to encourage participation by artists of all ages. Special prizes will be given to the winning entrants age 12 and under. Local businesses, clubs and community organizations may sponsor stars to be decorated by a student or students from the school of their choice. 

Completed stars will be displayed in businesses and public venues beginning Nov. 2 and through the holiday season.

At the Jan. 4 First Friday, stars will be available for purchase through a live and silent auction. Proceeds will benefit the Downtown Dover Partnership.

Artists can choose to donate 100 percent of the proceeds from the auction, or share the proceeds 50-50.

The participation fee is $25, which includes the star and eligibility to win cash prizes of $250, first place; $100 second place; and three merit awards of $50 each. An awards jury will evaluate the completed artwork based on technical skills, most creative use of materials, beauty and originality.

For more information, contact the Downtown Dover Partnership at 302-678-2940.

The Firefly Music Festival announced this week that after the music ends on the fields Saturday night, July 21, an after party will be held featuring a DJ set by electropop band Passion Pit at Dover Downs Hotel and Casino's Rollins Center.

The party will go from 11:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tickets are $24 but can only be purchased through Groupon.

One-day passes are still on sale for Firefly at $68 for Friday, July 20 and $88 for Saturday, July 21 and Sunday, July 22. Check the website for information.

Kent County Theatre Guild has announced its lineup of shows for the 2012-2013 season.

The Ken Ludwig golf-centric comedy "The Fox on the Fairways" will kick things off starting Sept. 7. It will be directed by Patti Gatto. Auditions will be held July 22-23.

"Murdered to Death," a spoof of the Agatha Christie mystery genre written by Peter Gordon, will directed by Paul Janiga. It premieres Nov. 2. Auditions will be Aug. 19, 21 and 22.

"Becky's New Car," a comedy that explores middle age, written by Steven Dietz and directed by Denis Stanton, will kick off Feb. 1. Auditions will be held Nov. 4, 6 and 8.

Finally, the Arthur Miller classic drama "All My Sons," directed by John Muller will bring down the curtain on April 12. Auditions for the show will be Feb. 3, 4 and 6.

Each show is performed for three weekends on Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. with a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. during the second weekend of each run.

For more information, check the guild's website.

The Biggs Museum has announced a "call for entries" for the Biggs Shot 2012 Photography Competition. Biggs Shot 2012, the third juried photography competition hosted by the Biggs Museum, will feature the work of professional and emerging photographers, working and/or living in the Mid-Atlantic region.

The theme for Biggs Shot 2012 is open, and any photographic medium can be submitted for consideration, including film, video and digital formats. The competition is open to all photographers, both amateur and professional living in Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The deadline for entries is Sept. 15. Further details of the application process can be found on the Biggs Museum website. Applications may be obtained by calling the Biggs Museum Administrative Offices at 302-674-2111 or may be downloaded at www.biggsmuseum.org.

The juror is Sarah Stolfa, executive director of the Philadelphia Photo Arts Center. Ms. Stolfa has exhibited her own work and curated the work of others extensively throughout the Philadelphia region. Her portraiture series, "The Regulars," was featured in The New York Times Magazine and published in the artist's 2009 photography catalog of the same title (Artisan, a division of Workman Publishing). With a Masters of Fine Art from Yale University, Stolfa opened the Philadelphia Photo Arts Center in 2009.

Selected entries will be featured in Biggs Shot 2012, a group exhibition to take place at the Biggs Museum Nov. 2 through Feb. 17. This exhibition will offer visitors a wide range of local photographers' work and their perspective of the Mid-Atlantic region. The Biggs Shot 2012 exhibition will culminate with an opening reception in November. In addition to the selected photographs on display, an online version of Biggs Shot 2012 will also be presented on the Biggs Museum website, www.biggsmuseum.org, showcasing the selected photographers' work for wider audiences. Biggs Shot 2012 will be complemented with a set of educational programming on the subject of photography during the tenure of the exhibition.

Due to problems with their server, Firefly Music Festival officials said Friday afternoon that they are putting single-day tickets on sale at Monday at 10 a.m. instead of Friday at noon.
After three-day passes sold out Thursday evening, officials announced that single-day tickets would go on sale Friday for $68 for Friday, July 20 and $88 for Saturday, July 21 and Sunday, July 22.
Unlike the three-day passes, wristbands will not be issued and re-entry will not be permitted.
Three-day VIP passes for $595 and Super VIP passes for $1,195 are still available.

All history enthusiasts are invited to join the Laurel Historical Society, the town of Laurel, The Laurel Chamber of Commerce and the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs as they open the doors of the newly restored Laurel Train Station and cut the ribbon on the long awaited Laurel Heritage Museum.
The ceremony will take place at the train station promptly at 1 p.m. during the Laurel Fourth of July Celebration, with the doors of the museum opening immediately after the program.

Dover bands will be front and center for three Friday nights in July as the Fordham/Old Dominion Brewery will host the Friday Night Fire Fight series.
Starting July 6, Monsterbaiters will take the stage, followed by Thirteen to One on July 13 and Prone to Violence on July 27.
All proceeds will be donated to Delaware fire departments.
The entrance fee is $5 with $1 per beer.
The brewery is at 1284 McD Drive, just off Horsepond Road.

Breakout British band Bombay Bicycle Club will play the Firefly Music Festival Sunday, July 22.

The schedule for next month's Firefly Music Festival at The Woodlands of Dover International Speedway was released Friday and it came with a surprise.

An unknown act was added to the bill for 6:30 p.m. Saturday, July 21 on the main stage. On Monday it was confirmed that the surprise will be indie band Modest Mouse.

The four stages will be called the Firefly Stage, The Lawn, The Backyard and The Porch.

Rockers Turf War will kick things off Friday, July 20 at 2:30 p.m. on The Porch.

Other highlights of Friday include John Legend on the Firefly Stage at 6:30 p.m., Silversun Pickups in The Backyard at 8 p.m. and Jack White on the Firefly Stage closing out the day at 9:30 p.m.

Moon Taxi starts on Saturday at 11:15 a.m. Cake plays on The Lawn at 5:30 p.m. Passion Pit and Lupe Fiasco both are set for 8 p.m. on two different stages. The Killers close out Saturday at 9:30 p.m. on the Firefly Stage.

On Sunday, Delaware's own lower case blues starts things off at 11:25 a.m. Death Cab for Cutie takes the Firefly stage at 6:15 p.m. The Flaming Lips hit The Lawn at 7:50 p.m. and The Black Keys shut it all down at 9:30 p.m.

For the full schedule and ticket information, visit the Firefly website.

Earlier this week, Firefly unveiled the restaurants that will make up the Gourmet Food Alley.

Lemon Grass will provide East Asian fare, Salud brings Mexican food while Trattoria will cook up pizza.

Other eateries include Front Porch, The Burger Joint and The New Kitchen.

On the heels of last week's story about the Hogs and Hops beer festival and barbecue competition coming to Dover in August, news of two more local food and beverage festivals came across our desk this week.

Radio stations WDSD and TOM-FM in conjunction with the towns of Smyrna and Clayton are presenting the first Smyrna/Clayton Craft Beer, Wine & Food Festival July 14.

The event will feature near 100 varieties of wine and craft beer from wineries and breweries throughout Delaware, Pennsylvania and Maryland.

Food, including local Irish favorites from Sheridan's Irish Pub, Italian cuisine from Trevi Ristorante, Jamaican delights from Karribbean Link, American classics from Sports Zone, Opheobes BBQ, Smyrna Diner and more will be on the menu.

A slate of artisans will be showing off their wares. A cornhole tournament, children's section and musical entertainment is also on the docket.

Krista Cooper of WDSD will broadcast from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Brian Moore will then perform from 2:30 to 3:30pm and Crossing Delmar will hit the stage from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Festival hours are from 2 to 8 p.m. on the Market Street Plaza with a rain date of Sunday.

The first 1,000 adults to arrive will receive a commemorative wine or beer glass.

Admission is $35 for adults over 21 and $10 for 12 to 20. Those under 12 will be admitted at no charge. ID is required.

Proceeds for the event will support The Smyrna/Clayton July 4 Association.

Tickets can be purchased prior to the event at any of the following Smyrna locations: Sheridan's Irish Pub located at 42 W. Commerce St., The Right Bottle, Simons Corner Shopping Center, Sayers Jewelers & Gemologists, 19 S. Main St., or Smyrna Sporting Goods, 4 S. Main St.

Ticket buyers will receive five extra tasting tickets for early purchase.

To learn how to become a participating sponsor, vendor or get any additional event information; including online ticket purchase, visit http://scjuly4.com.

Farther south, Brews-by-the-Bay, a celebration of Delaware's brewing heritage, will be held at the Lewes Ferry terminal on Saturday, June 30.

A Delaware Brewers Guild collaboration beer will be available as well as a collection of each brewery's selections.

"The Lewes terminal of the Cape May – Lewes Ferry is the perfect venue for the guild's first ever Brews-by-the-Bay celebration," said Nikky Fisher, Lewes Operations Supervisor. "Great food, music and the best finely crafted beers you can find. Bring a friend and don't forget your blanket and lawn chair!"

Admission tickets get each festival supporter a souvenir glass and a variety of the beer selections.

The participating breweries include 16 Mile, Dogfish Head, Fordham/Old Dominion, Iron Hill, Stewarts and Twin Lakes. Live music will be provided by Reedo and the Front Porch Offering. Food vendors will include Striper Bites, Bethany Blues, and the ferry's On the Rocks Bar and Grill.

The rain-or-shine festival will run from 4 to 8 p.m. Festival gates open at 3 p.m.

The adult festival admission is $30 if purchased in advance while the designated driver admission is $5. Tickets will be available at the gate for $40.

Visit www.delawarebrewersguild.org for ticket information.

As we've already been telling you, tickets are on sale for the Third Annual Delaware Wine & Beer Festival, produced by Kent County Tourism at the Delaware Agricultural Museum & Village Oct. 21 in Dover.

Again this year, a full contingency of Delaware wineries, breweries and artisans will participate in the event.

Live music, the Delaware Artisan Faire (featuring the work of 30 Delaware artisans) and a cornhole tournament will also be offered.

The event will be held from noon to 5 p.m. Admission, which will include a choice of 10 samples, will be $25 if purchased online by Oct. 15 and $35 at the door.

The first 500 wine and 500 beer ticket purchasers will also receive a free souvenir glass. Non-tasting or designated driver admission is $5. Full pours of wine and beer will be available for sale along with non-alcoholic beverages and food provided by local restaurants.

The event will be held rain or shine, and will be moved inside the museum in case of poor weather.

To purchase tickets, visit http://2012delawarewineandbeerfestival.eventbrite.com.

For information, visit the festival website or call Kent County Tourism at 302-734-4888 or 800-233-5368.

Oxygen's new reality show "Best Ink" is looking for skilled tattoo artists to star in the program.

On Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., casting directors from Bunim/Murray Productions, creators of the hit shows "The Real World" and "Keeping up with the Kardashians," will be holding an open casting call at Mad River Old City, 126 Chestnut St. in Philadelphia.

Applicants are asked to bring a recent picture of themselves (which will not be returned), photo ID, and photos of their artwork (which will be returned). The minimum age to apply is 21.

"Best Ink" will feature approximately 12 top tattoo artists as they compete for a cash prize and bragging rights. These unique artists will produce bona fide masterpieces on skin.

The permanent artwork will be created for — and on — real people in a variety of challenges to showcase the artists' talents.

Those wishing to participate who cannot attend the open casting call should email bestinkcasting@bunim-murray.com and submit their name, phone number, city, and short bio about themselves.

Emails must also include several recent photos, as well as photos showcasing their artwork — submissions without photos will not be accepted.

The subject heading of the email submission must be: "PHILADELPHIA"

More information is available at www.bunim-murray.com.

From young entertainers like Dakota Messick and alexandshiloh, to more seasoned groups such as King's Ransom and On the Edge, the stage is set for entertainment at this weekend's Delmarva Chicken Festival at the Centre at Salisbury in Salisbury, Md. The Delmarva Chicken Festival, held annually in a community on the Delmarva Peninsula, is sponsored by the Delmarva Poultry Industry Inc. 

Performing headliners on the festival's Great Scott Broadcasting stage today will be Dakota Messick at noon, Cascading Carlos at 3 p.m., alexandshiloh at 4 p.m. and the Tom Larsen Band at 7 p.m. In between, there will be appearances by a variety of community performers.

Local entertainers. ARA Barrett, will kick off the entertainment schedule on Saturday. Regional favorite King's Ransom will take the stage at 11:30 a.m. for two and a half hours. Evening attractions will begin at 4 p.m. with a two-hour concert by Second Wind. At 6 p.m., the winner of the Rule the Roost talent competition sponsored by MTS Broadcasting will appear, and the festival will conclude with a performance by On the Edge from 7 until 10 p.m.

Along with on-stage performances, the festival program will include a 5K walk/run, a car show, a home and trade show, an arts and crafts show, and a children's activity area.

Traditional festival attractions like Delmarva's famous giant fry pan, an abundance of  food, a carnival, a Chickin' Pickin' competiton, the always popular baby chicks and Chicken Capers featuring Sherman the Shorebird will round out the schedule.

The Centre at Salisbury is at 2300 N. Salisbury Blvd. Admission is free.

To see the full schedule of events for the 63rd Delmarva Chicken Festival, visit the website or call 800-878-2449.

Final numbers are in on last month's Fordham and Dominion Brewing Co. first beer and music festival, R2Hop2 in Dover, and by all accounts, it was a big success.
In honor of American Craft Beer Week, the festival brought together local brews and artisans and featured the music of Bond & Bentley, the Grilled Lincolns, Pasadena and The Rovers.
More than 1,000 attendees consumed 29 half-kegs of beer and three half-kegs of root beer. Throughout the day, two specialty firkins of Hop Mountain and Oak Barrel Stout were tapped. A portion of event profits went to support the Air Force's Morale, Welfare and Recreation program, the Dover Shepherd Place and the Fraternal Order of the Police.
"R2Hop2 was a wonderful day for the brewery and the community. Between catching up with old friends, listening to talented musicians and drinking great beer, I cannot imagine the day going any better," President and CEO of Fordham and Dominion Jim Lutz said.
"I would like to thank the volunteers and staff who made the day possible. We could not have done this without you."
Fordham and Old Dominion provide tours of the brewery at 1284 McD Drive in Dover and provide samples of their products, such as Scotch Ale, Oak Barrel Stout, Baltic Porter and Copperhead Ale, every Wednesday at 5 and 6 p.m., Friday at 4:30 and 6 p.m. and Saturday at 12:30 and 2 p.m.
For more information, visit the website or contact Lauren Bigelow at 302-678-4810 Ext. 201.

Comedian and actor Carlos Mencia is coming to Dover Downs Hotel & Casino on Friday, Aug. 24 at 9 p.m. Tickets go on sale Friday at noon.

Mr. Mencia, known for his Comedy Central television series "Mind of Mencia," was most recently featured in the family film "Our Family Wedding" with America Ferrara and Forest Whitaker.

He has a long list of comedy specials including "New Territory," aired last December on Comedy Central, "Carlos Mencia: Not For the Easily Offended," "and Carlos Mencia: No Strings Attached."

In 2002, he received a Cable ACE Award nomination for Best Stand-Up Comedy Special for his HBO special. Mr. Mencia's other TV appearances include "MADtv," "The Shield," "Moesha," "In Living Color," "The Arsenio Hall Show," "The Bernie Mac Show" and "An Evening at The Improv."

Tickets are $30-$60 and may be purchased through VIP Services at 800-711-5882 or the website

Thanks to a Target Literacy grant, Kent County Bookmobile and Kent County Parks and Recreation have teamed up to provide 10 free family programs at Brecknock Park’s “Picadilly Castle” Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. starting this week. The park is off U.S. 13 South in Camden. 

Hillary Welliver, Kent County librarian, encourages families to pack and picnic dinner and enjoy the shows.

"Brecknock is a great place to hold an outdoor performance series.  Our series is family-focused, making it stand out from other municipal and state summer series," she said.  

"If it is successful, I hope to extend and expand the series over many years to come." 

The schedule is as follows:

Thursday:  Sankofa African Dance Co.

June 14: Storyteller Michael Forestieri

June 21: The Joe Baoine Trio

June 28: Juggler Don Fisher

July 5: Radical Reptiles with Nic Bugg

July 12: Magician Mike Rose

July 19: No Program

July 26: Dick Gilbert, Chief Quiet Thunder

Aug. 2: Mary Ann Jung as Amelia Earhart

Aug. 9: Tuckahoe State Park – "The Secret Lives of Owl"

Aug. 16: Rehoboth Summer Children’s Theatre's "Puss in Boots."

With summer finally here, so too are the summer concerts at our local state parks.

Downstate, Killens Pond State Park in Felton and Trap Pond State Park in Laurel are hosting shows throughout the season. Killens Pond's slate begins June 15 with music from Second Chance Blues. But Trap Pond's series is in full swing with local musician Tony Robinson performing his mix of world music, rock and blues Friday night.

Mr. Robinson, who now goes by Toney, will play his latest music, including his new single "Standing in the Rain" and much more. All shows at both venues start at 6:30 p.m. The concerts are free but park entry fees are in effect.

For more information on the concerts at all state parks, click here.

The 2012 edition of Kids' Fest will offer a double opportunity for kids and teens to show off their talent on stage. The possibilities include a Youth Talent Showcase and a Teen Idol Contest. Both will be held on the main stage during Kids Fest at the Delaware State Fairgrounds in Harrington on Saturday, June 9.
The Youth Talent Showcase is open to performers between the ages of 3 and 19. The variety of talent to be staged can include dance, vocal and instrumental music, acting, cheerleading, juggling, magic and more. This part of the event will have two divisions determined by age: "Under 10" and "10 and Older". Both solo and group performances (limited to four minutes each) will be welcome; up to 10 performers will be selected to participate. Performances should be appropriate for family audiences including young children. All participants will receive gift bags. The Youth Talent Showcase will begin at 10:30 a.m
The second part of the talent equation is the Annual Kids Fest Teen Idol Contest open to teens (13 to 19). This is a vocal competition to determine three winners (out of a maximum of 10 contestants). Judging will be on the basis of natural ability, quality of performance and audience appeal. Performances are limited to four minutes each and should be kid appropriate. The instrumental background music (no recorded voices) is to be provided by the contestants. Teen Idol Contest winners will receive Visa gift cards and gift bags. This competition begins at 11 a.m.
There is no charge to participate in either of the youth talent shows, but pre-registration is required by June 5. Entry forms and information are available on the website or by calling 302-398-5194.
The Youth Talent Showcase and the Teen Idol Contest are part of the entertainment at Kids Fest. Also appearing onstage will be a Mad Science "Fire & Ice" presentation, the High Energy Magic of Speed and a performance by the Sankofa Dancers & Drummers. Elsewhere on the grounds, kids will be intrigued by "Fur & Feathers" (Abbotts Mill) and "Reptiles & Amphibians" (Killens Pond State Park).
At Kids Fest, all entertainment is free, while ride and game tickets are available at 25 for $5. Admission to the grounds is $3 for adults, free for kids; parking is free. A Be Great 5K Run/Walk, early in the day requires a separate registration fee.(Register online at TriSportsEvents.com.) All proceeds benefit the Greater Milford Boys & Girls Club.

Dover Downs Hotel & Casino has reopened The Festival Buffet following an overhaul of the restaurant, complete with redesigned interior and an expanded list of menu items.

"New food items can now be offered and prepared in a variety of ways including a fresh, raw seafood bar, made-to-order action stations, a grill station, and so much more," said George Fiorile, vice president of Hotel Operations for Dover Downs Hotel & Casino. "The goal is to give the customer more choices and selections, from the freedom and immediacy of a self-serve buffet to custom desserts and grilled items, all in a fresh, remodeled environment."

"A new concept for the buffet is freshly plated entrées prepared to order by our chefs, allowing customers to have their meals prepared hot to order. These action stations contribute to the overall sense of a traditional restaurant sit-down meal because items are made to order."

Other action stations include an expanded noodle bar with chef-prepared hot bowls of broth varieties and multiple vegetable choices, as well as a wok option for an individual stir-fry. Chefs can also grill to order including chuck sirloin, beef tenderloin, marinated chicken, sausage, pork chops, and Ahi tuna - served rare if desired.

Specialty offerings include filet mignon and lobster. These offerings will be prepared fresh for each guest for an upcharge.

Upon arrival, customers are able to view fresh seafood selections from the lobby in a new glass enclosure, including oysters, clams, mussels, crab legs, sushi and lobster. Sushi rolls are also prepared fresh daily.

The International station features assorted dishes and breads of Italian, French, Mexican, German, Caribbean, Middle Eastern and Cajun cuisines. A farm fresh selection of meats, seafood, vegetables and ingredients, some from the local area, are prepared when seasonally available. Some  are organic.

Other stations offer omelets to order, lunch sautéed specials of pasta/shrimp dishes, Southern cooking and hot crab legs on Thursday and Friday.

The dessert station has been expanded to include a waffle station and a burner for making to-order bannas foster and cherries jubliee. Other options include house-made donuts, soft-serve ice cream, an ice cream sundae bar with a variety of toppings and sauces, sugar-free fare, and three freshly prepared desserts offered daily by the executive pastry chef.

The interior has been totally revamped with brown and gold color accents, tile work in the foyer and decorative archways to delineate special seating areas. Additional booths for intimate seating and new carpeting have been added throughout.

This is the first complete renovation for the buffet in 10 years, since its opening in April 2002. Prices range from a $11.50 breakfast to $18.50-$19.95 for dinner. Children 5-11 years eat for half price. Children 3 & 4 years eat for $4.25; children 2 years and younger eat at no charge. Capital Club Members receive $2 off the regular priced menu.

The Festival Buffet is open daily. Breakfast is served Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. Brunch is served on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch is served Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Dinner is served Sunday through Thursday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Dover Downs Hotel & Casino will welcome country duo Montgomery Gentry on Friday, Sept. 21 at 9 p.m. in the Rollins Center ballroom. Tickets go on sale Friday from $35 to $65, and may be purchased by calling VIP Services at 800-711-5882 or visiting the website. Doors will open at 8 p.m. and Will Call will be open from 6 to 10 p.m.

Montgomery Gentry's repertoire includes their most-recent hit "So Called Life," as well as "Where I Come From," "Hell Yeah," "My Town," "Roll With Me," "One in Every Crowd," "I Pick My Parties," "God Knows Who I Am," "One Trip" and "It Ain't About Easy."

Montgomery Gentry have recently been nominated for Duo of the Year for the upcoming 2012 Country Music Television Music Awards to be held on June 6. 

After playing to an enthusiastic crowd last September, blues guitarist Albert Castiglia returns to Jonathan's Landing Golf Course in Magnolia Saturday night at 8 for another red-hot show. The local band Lost Weekend opens for Mr. Castiglia at 6:30 p.m.

Born in New York and raised in Miami, Mr. Castiglia began playing guitar at 12. In 1990, he became a member of The Miami Blues Authority and was later voted “Best Blues Guitarist” by New Times magazine in 1997. Shortly thereafter, he was spotted by legendary blues singer/harmonica player Junior Wells, who asked him to join his band as a guitarist and singer.

With Mr. Wells as his mentor, Mr. Castiglia performed at clubs and festivals across America, as well as in Canada and Europe. During that time, he also got the opportunity to play and jam with many other blues stars, including Pinetop Perkins, Ronnie Earl, Billy Boy Arnold, Lurrie Bell, Jerry Portnoy, Eddy Clearwater and Otis Clay. 

After Mr. Wells passed away, Mr. Castiglia toured with Atlanta blues singer Sandra Hall.  

After a date in Connecticut, the Jonathan's Landing show is the second stop on his tour to promote his upcoming CD "Living the Dream" which is due out June 12 on Blues Leaf Records. Check out the title track from a Diamond State Blues Society show in New Castle in March by clicking here. He will spend the month of June doing shows in his home state of Florida.

Jonathan's Landing is at 1309 Ponderosa Drive in Magnolia. The show is open to the public. For more information, call 697-8204 or visit the website.

If you haven't gotten your tickets for July's Firefly Music Festival at The Woodlands of Dover International Speedway, be advised that advance ticket pricing for general admission three-day passes will end on May 29 at 11:59pm with the price jumping from $198 to $218.

More than 40 artists, including The Killers, The Black Keys and Jack White are set to rock Dover July 20-22.

A quick check of this week's Billboard Top 10 albums shows Firefly acts Silversun Pickups debuting at No. 6 with their CD "Neck of the Woods" and Mr. White's "Blunderbuss" at No. 8. The Black Keys' "El Camino" is at No. 40.

For more information and tickets, visit the Firefly website.

The Camden-Wyoming Volunteer Fire Department is sponsoring a carnival from May 29 to June 2 from 6 to 10 p.m. on Tuesday through Friday and Saturday from 3 to 10 p.m. in the parking lot area behind the Camden-Wyoming Fire Department, 200 E. Camden-Wyoming Ave.

There will be rides and food booths for the family. There is no admission fees and tickets for rides can be purchased at the event.

Proceeds go to the Camden-Wyoming Fire Department

For more information, call the fire department at (302) 697-8671 or Dan Dilling at (302) 270-8134. 

Kent County Tourism is hosting a logo contest for the purpose of adopting a new festival logo to be used for future Delaware Wine & Beer Festivals. The deadline to enter is Wednesday, Sept. 12 and the winning logo will be announced at this year's festival at the Delaware Agricultural Museum and Village on Oct. 21.

The contest winner will be awarded $250 cash and four tickets to both the 2012 and 2013 Delaware Wine & Beer Festivals, for a total value of $450. Judges will select the winning entry and the Delaware Wine & Beer Festival Committee will make the final decision. The Festival Committee also reserves the right not to select a winning logo if no entries are deemed suitable.

No more than three designs can be submitted per person, and the winning entry will be the sole property of Kent County Tourism and the Delaware Wine & Beer Festival to be used in any manner. Participants must be at least 18 years of age to enter and there is no entry fee.

Contest rules require that the entry logos:

- Be distinct, unique and representative of the event;

- Be clear and identifiable at small sizes (e.g. 4x4);

- Aesthetically able to fit in with a broad range of site/application designs;

- Provide a clear silhouette that can be rendered in multiple colors, black and white and gray tones; and

- Be submitted in JPG, GIF or PNG formats; however please be prepared to provide high resolution/vector graphic versions of your work.

For a complete set of contest rules, call Kent County Tourism at 302-734-1736. Additional information about Kent County Tourism or the Delaware Wine & Beer Festival can be found on the web at www.VisitDover.com.

On Saturdays during the month of June, Dover's Johnson Victrola Museum will celebrate African-American Music Appreciation Month by shining a spotlight on some of the Victor Talking Machine Co.'s earliest and most successful recording artists — African-American singers and musicians.

Each week, audiences will have an opportunity to learn the history of these artists accompanied by their recordings played on authentic Victor Talking Machines. Featured artists will include the Fisk Jubilee Singers and James Europe Band on June 2, Fats Waller and Jellyroll Morton on June 9, Paul Robeson on June 16, Marian Anderson on June 23 and Duke Ellington on June 30. All programs will take place between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. and are free and open to the public. For additional information, call 302-744-5055.

The Johnson Victrola Museum, located at 375 S. New St., between North St. and Bank Lane highlights the life and achievements of Delaware's native son, Eldridge Reeves Johnson, founder of The Victor Talking Machine Co. Through machines, trademarks, recordings, objects, paintings and advertisements, the museum showcases Johnson, his company and the development of the sound-recording industry.

The DuPont Nature Center at Mispillion Harbor Reserve will host "Peace, Love & Horseshoe Crabs," its third annual festival celebrating the spring spectacle of migrating shorebirds and spawning horseshoe crabs, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is free.

The festivities will feature children's games, music, crafts and vendors, food and a variety of fun and educational activities at eco-stations set up on the grounds. Visitors will have opportunities to check out migrating shorebirds, including the Red Knot. Guides will be on hand to help identify the birds, which depend on horseshoe crab eggs to help fuel their 9,000-mile journey from South America to their Arctic breeding grounds.

Parking will be available at the public boat ramp, with shuttles running to the center throughout the day. The festival will be held rain or shine.

The center is at 2992 Lighthouse Road, east of Milford. From May 1 through Aug. 31, the center's regular hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, closed Mondays. Admission is free and open to the public.

For more information about the festival or the DuPont Nature Center and its programs, call 302-422-1329, or visit the website.

The Bayhealth Milford Memorial Auxiliary sponsors the 55th Annual Milford Memorial Hospital Fair Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the grounds of the Milford Middle School.

Included in the day will be a Civil War re-enactment, the fourth annual Tricycle Race, children's games, stock car track, strolling entertainer, rides and inflatables, a petting zoo, food, crafts, raffles and vendors' booths, as well as a full schedule of entertainment throughout the day that includes the Milford's Got Talent Show. There will be also be a special tent offering free health screenings and the Planetree Carnival showcasing Bayhealth's Planetree model of patient-centered care.

The kickoff to the fair will be a pulled pork or chicken dinner plus flower and book sales today from 5:30 to 7 p.m. To purchase tickets for the dinner, call George Caccamise at (302) 422-6815.

Each year, the Milford Memorial Hospital Auxiliary sponsors the fair to raise money to fund vital programs and purchase lifesaving equipment for Bayhealth Milford Memorial. Net proceeds from this year's fair will be used to purchase equipment for the surgical units.

Visit www.bayhealth.org for more information.

Tickets are now on sale for the Third Annual Delaware Wine & Beer Festival, produced by Kent County Tourism and being hosted by the Delaware Agricultural Museum & Village Oct. 21 in Dover.

Again this year, a full contingency of Delaware wineries, breweries and artisans will participate in the event.

To date, the following wineries and breweries have signed up to participate: 
•16 Mile Brewing Co., Georgetown
•Argilla Brewing Co., Newark
•Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, Milton
•Fenwick Wine Cellars, Fenwick Island
•Fordham/Dominion Brewing Co., Dover
•Nassau Valley Vineyards, Lewes
•Twin Lakes Brewery, Greenville
•Unplugged & Uncorked Sonata Wines, Millsboro

Premier sponsor of the 2012 festival is the Delaware Wine & Ale Trail, created by the Delaware Tourism Office to promote Delaware’s growing wine and beer industry.

Live music, the Delaware Artisan Faire (featuring the work of 30 Delaware artisans) and a cornhole tournament will also be offered.

The event will be held from noon to 5 p.m. Admission, which will include a choice of 10 samples, will be $25 if purchased online by Oct. 15 and $35 at the door.

The first 500 wine and 500 beer ticket purchasers will also receive a free souvenir glass. Non-tasting or designated driver admission is $5. Full pours of wine and beer will be available for sale along with non-alcoholic beverages and food provided by local restaurants.

The event will be held rain or shine, and will be moved inside the museum in case of poor weather.

To purchase tickets, visit http://2012delawarewineandbeerfestival.eventbrite.com.

For information, visit the festival website or call Kent County Tourism at 302-734-4888 or 800-233-5368.

For the first time, the Miss Delaware Scholarship Organization will be announcing a top 11, not a top 10, on Saturday night, June 16.

In an effort that started Sunday, everyone will have an opportunity to vote for their favorite Miss Delaware contestant through Paypal. This means that each dollar donated toward the scholarship fund will be a vote for that contestant. 

In addition, boxes will be placed in the lobby at Dover Downs where audience members may place additional donations (one vote per dollar).

On Friday night, June 15 at 8 p.m., voting will stop and all votes will be counted. The contestant with the most votes will be named the People's Choice winner and will become one of the top 11 contestants to compete for the Miss Delaware title on Saturday night.

This contestant will be the first one announced. If that contestant did not make the original top 10, she will be in the finals along with the other 10 highest scoring contestants.

If that contestant already made the top 10, the 11th contestant will be named to the top 11.

Boxes will be then be placed in the lobby to vote for Saturday's People's Choice. This will not affect being named to the top 11. As in the past, Saturday's People's Choice winner will keep the amount of money in her box. The money in the other boxes will go to the Miss Delaware Scholarship Fund.

To vote for your People's Choice, go to the website. From therec click on People's Choice and follow the directions.

Fourteen artists who participated in the Dover Days Plein Air Paint Out will have their work showcased at the Dover Art League during First Friday, June 1, at a reception and show from 5 to 7 p.m.  The public is invited, free of charge.

The event, co-sponsored by Kent County Tourism, Dover Art League and Becker Morgan, will include refreshments and the paintings that were created during Dover Days on May 6.  Ribbons will notate the first-, second- and third-place winners along with People's Choice and Artists' Choice.

The participating artists include Dianne Bauer, Harrington; Maria Liberto Bessette, Dover; N. Taylor Collins, Dover; Jan Crumpley, Dover; Donna Hansen, Dover; Leah Kinder, Felton; L.D. Kinder, Felton; Claire Lewandowski, Magnolia, Rick Schuman, Hartly; Letitia Schuman, Hartly; Diane Laird, Middletown; Brandon Schaefer, Felton; Dennis Young, New Castle; and Robbin Hare, Dover.

"Plein air" is a French term that basically means painting outside.  It has grown in popularity in the U.S., and several towns nearby have established successful plein air events.  The goal of Kent County Tourism and the Dover Days Committee is to continue to grow the event for 2013, which will be the 80th anniversary of the Dover Days Festival.

"Dover has so many historic homes and structures to paint," said Lorraine Dion, Director of Special Events and Public Relations for Kent County Tourism.  "We believe we can attract more artists next year to paint in our beautiful historic capital city."

For more information, call Kent County Tourism, 302-734-8511.

The Possum Point Players are interested in hearing from potential directors for its 2013 season of five main stage shows. 

There are two application forms for potential directors, one for those who have directed shows at PPP before, and one for those who have not. 

Shows for the season are "The Psychic" by Sam Bobrick (end of January); "Curtains" by Rupert Holmes, John Kander, Fred Ebb and Peter Stone (March/April); "Ten Little Indians" by Agatha Christie; "Baby" by Richard Maltby Jr., David Shire, Sybille Pearson and Susan Yankowitz (September/October). And finally, the Christmas show will be a yet-to-be-conceived, named and written musical review (Early December).

Donna de Kuyper, Chairwoman of the Director Selection/Reading Committee is the contact person for both applications and further information. She can be reached at donnadek@comcast.net or 302-228-1768.

It was such a hit last year, Camden's Delaware Bay Trading Co. is bringing back its popular Coffee House Concert Series again this year.

Starting with Saturday's show by local favorite Joey Fulkerson at 6:30 p.m., the venue will host concerts on most Saturdays through Sept. 22.

"We've scheduled more concerts this year; some old favorites as well as some new folks too," said owner John Green. "I have a new sound system — not louder, just better sounding — and have been working on sprucing up the courtyard area and the milk room."

May 19 will be the series' first singer-songwriter series with Nik Everett and Sol Knopf. 

Admission for the shows are $7, which includes one beverage (soft drink, water, coffee). In the event of rain, the concerts will be moved inside with limited seating at $10.

The shop will remain open during the concerts, as will the coffee shop.

Delaware Bay Trading Co. is at 102 S. Main St. in Camden. For more information, call 698-3550 or visit the website.

This season's schedule is as follows:

Saturday Joey Fulkerson

May 19 Sol Knopf and Nik Everett

June 2 Heavenly Hash

June 9 Rory Sullivan

June 23 Deloy Moore and friends

July 14 Nik Everett

July 28 E.B. Hawkins and Jordyn

Aug. 11 Ashley and Donny

Aug. 18 Rory Sullivan

Sept. 8 Joey Fulkerson

Sept. 15 Nik Everett

Sept. 22 Sol Knopf

Delaware's own lower case blues has been added to the lineup for July's Firefly Music Festival at the Woodlands of Dover International Speedway.

Joining the blues act in the latest additions to the lineup, that will be officially announced Wednesday, are Bassnectar, Silversun Pickups, Fitz and the Tantrums, Polica, The Knocks, Moon Taxi and Turf War.

The festival is set for July 20-22 and will feature headliners The Killers, The Black Keys and Jack White, along with other artists such as Death Cab for Cutie, John Legend, Lupe Fiasco and The Flaming Lips.

These may not be the final acts added to the event.

"That's unclear at this time. We are still exploring opportunities," said Firefly spokeswoman Meghan Roman.

Advance three-day passes are currently on sale for $198 and will rise to $218 once they are sold out. Camping opportunities are also available.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the website.

Local blues band Bad JuJu is "Playing the Blues for Food" on Saturday at J.W.'s Sports Bar and Restaurant in Dover.

The band is teaming up with the Kent County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) to encourage people to remember the animals and their need for additional help at the overcrowded shelters this year. The band will play from 8:30 p.m. until 12:30 a.m. at the nightspot located at 1035 Walker Road in Dover's Hamlet Shopping Center.

Those who come with pet food, pet care items or cash donations will be eligible for raffle prizes which will be given out throughout the night.
Raffle items include gift certificates, CDs and T-shirts and more.

"We are only too happy to play for these guys — they do great work and much of it goes unseen," Bad JuJu manager and bass player Ken Belmont said. "It gets people out of the house, gives them a chance to listen to some good music, see some friends and do something good all at the same time. J.W.'s has always helped to support these events, and we really appreciate it"

Items currently needed by the SPCA include dog food, cat food, towels, blankets, toys, paper towels, and even disinfecting cleaners.

The Kent County SPCA is Delaware's only open admission shelter. You can find out more on its website.

As we told you a couple of weeks ago, the Kent County Theatre Guild will close its current season tonight with the comedy "Moonlight and Magnolias."

The play, starring KCTG veterans Bruce Leister, Mike Polo, John Zinzi and Patti Gatto and directed by guild mainstay Chris Polo, deals with the run-up to film the classic tale "Gone With the Wind."

The story follows producer David Selznick, director Victor Fleming and screenwriter Ben Hecht over a five-day span in 1939 during which the three rewrote the script based on the Margaret Mitchell tale.

To meet the deadline and resume production, Mr. Selznick decided the three men would hole up in his office for five days to work nonstop, eating nothing but peanuts and bananas, which he called "brain food."

The production starts tonight and Saturday at 8. at the Patchwork Playhouse, 140 E. Roosevelt Ave., in Dover and continues May 11 and 12, 18 and 19, at 8 p.m., with a matinee on May 13 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for seniors, military and children.

For more information, call the box office at 674-3568 or visit the website.

Get your tickets now for Emmy-nominated comedian Basile's return trip to the Dover Sheraton's Champagne Ballroom in "A Pinch of Basile" Friday, May 11.

Basile, who just returned from a tour of Australia, has visited Dover a couple of times, most recently in March of last year to a large crowd and rave reviews.

A comedian for 25 years, Basile is best known for entertaining audiences with tales of his Greek heritage, impressions and a slightly off-kilter look on life.

Doors open at 7 p.m. The opening act starts at 8.

Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Audience members must be 21 or older. For reservations call, 734-0907.

The Dover Symphony Orchestra will help to celebrate Dover Days with their annual pops concert Saturday night.

The symphony, under the direction of Donald Buxton, will present "Spirit of America" at 7 p.m., at Calvary Assembly of God in Dover.

Selections include "Fanfare for the Common Man," "Mr. Holland's Opus," and a number of patriotic selections by American composers.

Admission prices are $20 for adults; $15 for seniors, students and military; and children under 16 are always free with a paying adult

For tickets, call 302-270-1903 and for further information, visit the website.

The 60-member orchestra will travel aboard the Cape May-Lewes Ferry's MV Twin Capes on Saturday, May 12, from 2 to 5:30 p.m. as it sails from Lewes to Cape May, N.J., and back to the sounds of "Spirit of America" for its second annual "Symphony at Sea."

Gary Papp of Essential Chef is catering the food for this event, which was a big hit last year.

"In addition to patriotic music, passengers will enjoy wine tasting, lavish hors d'oeuvres, an open bar, and a special silent auction," said DSO President Nancy Pikulik.

Reservations must be made in advance. Tickets are $100 or $125 for VIP Mezzanine seating. Call 800-64FERRY (800-643-3779) or log onto www.cmlf.com and click on "Events."

"The Dover Symphony is a non-profit organization so a portion of each ticket is tax-deductible. This would be a wonderful event for a business to treat its employees or clients, or as a Mother or early Father's Day gift," said Mrs. Pikulik.

Recording artist Kris Allen, the season 8 winner of "American Idol," will perform the national anthem prior to the start of the June 3 FedEx 400 benefiting Autism Speaks NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Dover International Speedway.

Since winning "American Idol" in 2009, Mr. Allen has had five singles on the Billboard charts. His self-titled debut album featured his hit single, "Live Like We're Dying," which has a combined digital sales of more than 1.7 million. His second  album, "Thank You Camellia," is slated for release on May 22 on 19 Recordings/RCA Records, and features the single "The Vision of Love." Mr. Allen co-wrote every song on the album. He has toured with Keith Urban, Maroon 5, Barenaked Ladies and Lifehouse, as well as headlining his own club tour.

The NASCAR tripleheader weekend at the Monster Mile that also includes the June 2 5-hour ENERGY 200 NASCAR Nationwide Series race and June 1 Lucas Oil 200 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race.

For tickets or more information, call 800-441-RACE or visit the website. You can also keep up with the speedway at Facebook.com/DoverInternationalSpeedway or on Twitter @MonsterMile.

The Dover Art League invites artists for one of the first juried art shows that the league has sponsored in several years. Artists do not need to be a member to enter. The title of this summer-themed show is "Time for Art" and the league is accepting up to three pieces of art in one of four categories for the entry fee of $20.

Artwork will be accepted between June 2 and June 9 during regular business hours. The categories are 1) framed art, including watercolors, oils, and acrylic, 2) framed photography, 3) 3-D art, including pottery and sculpture, and 4) wearable art, including original jewelry and upcycled, recycled or handmade clothing. The upcycled and recycled clothing must include before and after photos for entry.

Prizes will be awarded during a Special First Day of Summer reception on June 20.

Visit the gallery at 21 W. Loockerman St., Dover and pick up an entry packet with more information or call the league at 302-647-0402. Business hours are Wednesday-Friday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The second annual Clayton Railroad Days Festival will be held on June 9 from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.

Like last year, the festival will include a large train display in the banquet hall of the firehouse, three live entertainment locations, displays, vendors and food.

Organizers say this year's event will be bigger and better than last year's. Entertainment will again include the Citizens Hose Co. Fireman's Band, the MOT Steppers in the engine room at the Clayton firehouse and singer Sol Knopf on Main Street in front of the Young Bean.

New this year will be The Mix performing midday in the entertainment tent on Railroad Avenue, across from the old firehouse. Also new this year will be a Kids Zone with games and crafts for all kids. Back again this year there will be a petting zoo, pony rides and maybe even a couple surprises at the kids area at the corner of Main and North Bassett streets. 

This year is the 125th anniversary of the town of Clayton and to celebrate, an old-fashioned parade will be held down Main Street. The parade will begin at 9 a.m. at the Clayton Elementary School. Lineup will begin at 7:30 a.m. and will be on School Lane. The parade will proceed east on Main Street past the festival to North Reed Street where it will turn left and end up at Metal Masters.

Each unit that participates in the parade will receive a small plaque to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the town. Those interested are asked to contact Kevin Wilson at skip4515@yahoo.com. Any other questions can be directed to Lisa Thomson at claytonfestival@gmail.com.

The City of Dover Parks & Recreation Department and WSFS Bank are ready for another Spring & Summer Concert Series on Dover's Green.

Nineteen weeks of entertainment starts Thursday night with a performance by the ècartè d ance troupe at the Dover Park Recreation Center. The rest of the series will be held on The Green, weather permitting. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.

Each concert begins promptly at 7 p.m.

In case of rain or impending inclement weather, please call the Parks and Recreation Weather Line at 736-7155, for updated information on relocation or cancellation.

Here is this year's schedule:

May 3 ècartè d ance troupe (held at Dover Park)-Modern Dance

May 10 Runaway Train-Americana

May 17 Glass Onion-Classic Rock

May 24 Triple Shot-Variety

May 31 Honeycombs-Oldies/Show Band

June 7 Miss Delaware-Song and Dance

June 14 Joe Baione-Jazz

June 21 Josh & Toni-Country

June 28 Skinny Leg Pete Band-Classic Rock and R&B

July 5 Reptile World-Reptilian Demonstration

July 12 Island Boyz Band-Island

July 19 TBA

July 26 Bad Juju-Blues

Aug. 2 Libb y McDowell Jazz Band

Aug. 9 June Evans & Mercy City-Jazz, Blues, R&B

Aug. 16 Over Time-Classic Rock

Aug. 23 Oh Boy!-Tribute to Buddy Holly

Aug. 30 Pete Gumbo & Who Dat Band-Classic New Orleans R&B

Sept. 6 First State Harmonizers-Harmony

Legendary country musician Willie Nelson will make his Grand Opera House debut on Sunday, June 17 at 7 p.m. in Copeland Hall. The concert is presented in cooperation with SLP Concerts and WDSD Radio.

Mr. Nelson, who turns 79 today, has been a mainstay of country music and American culture for decades, with such classics as “On The Road Again,” “Always on My Mind,” “Crazy,” “Whiskey River,” and “Blue Eyes Cryin’ in the Rain.”

The concert will be the first event in a planned country music series presented in partnership with WDSD Radio. Grand Country Nights, more concerts of which will be announced with the 2012-13 season, is an initiative to offer more country music at The Grand to serve country fans in the region.

Tickets for Willie Nelson will go on public sale on Friday at 10 a.m. They can be purchased online at TicketsAtTheGrand.org, or by calling 302-652-5577 or 800-37-GRAND, or visiting The Grand’s Box Office at 818 N. Market St., Wilmington.

This year's Miss Delaware Pageant will be held at Dover Downs on June 14 and 15 for the preliminary nights, and on June 16 Miss Delaware 2012 will be crowned. The pageant will begin each night at 7:30 with a silent auction and 50/50 raffle all three nights.
Eighteen young women will be vying for the title, and each night will feature Maria Cahill, Miss Delaware 2011, plus other past winners.
Ticket prices for Thursday, June 14 will be $20 for open seating. On Friday, June 15, riser tickets are $20; square table tickets $35, and a limited amount of round corporate tables are $350.
On Saturday, June 16, riser tickets are $20, Square table tickets are $35 and a limited amount of round corporate tables are $500.
For tickets, call Dover Downs VIP Services at 1-800-711-5882. For corporate tables only, call Mark Zirilli at 302-857-3208.

The Cadbury Foundation will present the legendary Four Freshmen, as part of their community concert fundraising event, taking place at Cape Henlopen High School on Saturday, May 19. Doors will open at 6:15 p.m., with the concert beginning promptly at 7.

Dating back to the 1950s, The Four Freshmen strike a chord with a wide demographic that have one universal commonality; a love for the Great American Songbook. Voted No. 1 Vocal Group of the Year by Downbeat Magazine two out of the last three years, the current ensemble of Brian Eichenberger, Curtis Calderon, Bob Ferreira and Vince Johnson bring back the signature sound of the original ensemble with a 21st century twist.

Ticket information and purchase instructions can be found on the website or secure by phone at (866)798-4483. Seating is limited and therefore this is a first-come, first-served event.

The Cape Henlopen Viking Jazz Ensemble will be the opening act set to begin at 6:15 p.m.

Who says Dover Days doesn't celebrate history and the arts?

Be sure to check out the eight dance groups who will be performing. Nearly 300 area school children will be dress in Colonial costume to dance around the maypole on The Green under the direction of Casey Stokes, a teacher at South Dover Elementary. New this year, the Modern Maturity Center's Steppin' Seniors will perform a maypole dance on Saturday. They too will be decked in colonial attire. Mrs. Stokes has been working with the fourth-graders as well as the seniors, teaching the elaborate ribbon weaving dances.

The Sankofa Dancers will perform in the Dover Days parade, and new this year will be Tinkus Tiataco USA, an award-winning 35-member dance group coming from Silver Spring, Md. They will be wearing tradition "Tinku" attire, which is colorful and varies by gender. The group performs Bolivian folklore dancing, and most recently won the award for "Best Performing Group" in the Washington St. Patrick's Day Parade.

After the parade on Saturday, Dover's English Country Dancers will perform on The Green in front of the Old State House. In addition to their elaborate steps, their Colonial attire is beautiful. Also on Saturday, Bruce Morris and a group of Native Americans will be exhibiting in front of the Biggs Museum on Saturday, and will be demonstrating and teaching Native American dancing.

Providence Creek Academy of Clayton will perform ballet on the Legislative Mall Stage on Saturday at 3:30 p.m., and the Welch Elementary School "Move Forward" Dance Group will also perform on the Legislative Mall Stage on Saturday at 2 p.m.

The Rehoboth Beach Film Society recently announced that Laura Ambler's mixed digital titled "Come to the Fest & Sea the World" was selected as the art theme for the 15th anniversary of the Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival. "Come to the Fest & Sea the World" will be the theme of the poster, program, ads, T-shirts, and other collateral materials. The July release of the poster is a much anticipated annual event in coastal Sussex County.

All of the submissions were very creative and unique which made the selection process very challenging" said Eric Kafka, board president. "The film society appreciates the time and work of each submitting artist".

Ms. Ambler is a Telly Award-winning advertising executive heading her own writing, graphic design, and creative services agency, The Ambler Co., Inc. based in Easton, Md. She illustrated three children's books: "The Fish Tank", "The Turtle Tank", and "The Rat Tank" published by Schiffer Publishing in 2011. Legendary movie producer and director Roger Corman purchased Ambler's first screenplay, "The Theory of Chaos" and hired her to write "The White Pony", the highest-grossing Corman family movie to date.

In addition to author, screenplay writer, and illustrator, Ms. Ambler is executive vice president of East Coast Flight Services, Inc, where she is responsible for strategic planning

Bids for the original "Come to the Fest & Sea the World" will be accepted during the film festival set for Nov. 7-11 through a silent auction process.

The society will again invite artists to submit work for the 2013 Film Festival. Artists interested in participating in this process should email info@rehobothfilm.com for guidelines and due date.

Comedienne Margaret Cho, probably best known for her short-running sitcom "All-American Girl" and as Teri Lee in the Lifetime sitcom "Drop Dead Diva," will perform Saturday night at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center for the annual Comedy at the Beach event to benefit The Jefferson School in Georgetown.

Ms. Cho, known for her outspoken views on social and political issues, will take the stage at 8:30 p.m. with doors opening at 7:30. A cash bar will be available and the show is open to adults only. Only those with valid ID will be admited.

Tickets from $65 to $100 are available at the website or by calling 302-856-3300.

The Jefferson School is a nonprofit, independent, coeducational day school with a traditional liberal arts and science curriculum.

The Delaware State University Department of Music will present its 2012 Spring Band Concert at 7 tonight (April 18) in the Education and Humanities Building. The concert is free and open to the public.

The two-part concert will feature separate performances by the DSU Concert Band and the DSU Wind Ensemble. The DSU Concert Band will be conducted by Dr. Horace Lamar, chair of the University’s Department of Music. The DSU Wind Ensemble will be directed by Timothy Chamber, assistant band director. Randolph Johnson is the director of bands.

Beccy Cooper, Biggs Museum Educational Programs coordinator, has been awarded the 2012 Museum Educator of the Year award by the Delaware Art Education Association.

The 2012 awards ceremony was held at Aqua Sol restaurant in Bear on Thursday, March 16 to recognize recipients in the following categories: Elementary Art Educator, Art Educator, Retired Art Educator, Museum Art Educator, and the Howard Pyle Award.

The Delaware Art Education Association promotes the philosophy of art education which establishes, maintains and integrates art learning as an essential part of education. The DAEA also recognizes excellence in art and art education and supports arts in the community at large. The DAEA presents annual Delaware Art Educator of the Year awards to honor outstanding DAEA members who dedicate their time to outstanding service and achievement.

"I feel so privileged to receive this award and to be recognized among such an outstanding group of art educators from Delaware," Ms. Cooper said.

"It's extremely rewarding to provide engaging and unique educational opportunities for children in a museum setting and to have the opportunity to collaborate with other art educators for tours, youth exhibitions and programs. This is truly an honor."

Lewes' newest fish and chip shop go brit! kicked off the season in style with NBC "Today" morning show host Hoda Kotb cutting the ribbon on April 7.
Ms. Kotb is a loyal customer of go fish! – the sister restaurant also owned by Alison Blyth. 
"Alison runs the finest restaurant in the area and we love talking about it on the 'Today' show," Ms. Kotb said while in coastal Delaware with her family for the Easter weekend.
go brit! fish+ chip shop is Ms. Blyth's first step toward her long-held dream of creating a franchise that promotes Britain's most popular dishes. Her first British eatery, go fish! in Rehoboth Beach, has experienced much success since opening in 2002. 
After the ceremony, she shared her thoughts on Twitter: "Congrats to Alison!!! We loved eating @gobrit....Delish!" On April 9, Kotb showed a picture of Ms. Blyth at the restaurant on her NBC morning show.
go brit! officially opened on March 8 with a fundraiser to benefit The Jefferson School, an organization that Ms. Blyth has supported for years.
The restaurant is at 18388 Del. 1 next to the Atlantic Cellular Verizon store.

The Schwartz Center for the Arts and Comcast are partnering for their annual Comcast Cares Day to support the Joining Forces national initiative to benefit the Fisher House for Families of the Fallen on Dover Air Force Base. The SCA has been asking for cash donations during each performance of the 10th anniversary season to use towards purchasing supplies to put together care packages for the Fisher House DAFB. The community is welcomed to come to the SCA on Saturday, April 21 between 9 a.m. and noon and sign cards that will be distributed to the families of Fisher House DAFB.

Joining Forces is a national initiative organized by first lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden that mobilizes all sectors of society to give service members and their families opportunities and support. The Fisher House is a unique facility among the Foundation's other Fisher Houses currently operating worldwide. The house is 8.462 square feet equipped with nine suites that include private, handicapped-accessible bathrooms and common areas that include a multi-cooking station kitchen, large communal dining and family rooms. It is designed to provide short-term, on-base lodging to families who travel to Dover to witness the dignified transfer of loved ones.

For more information, call the box office Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 pm at (302) 678-5152.

A number of downtown merchants have accepted the challenge to come up with a decorated window for the Dover Days Window Decorating Competition. Winning windows will be announced at First Friday, May 4, which coincides with the opening night of Dover Days weekend.

"We are pleased with the large number of merchants who have joined the competition, and more are registering every day," said Carly James, a Dover Days volunteer who is coordinating the competition. "The contest really serves two purposes," she said, "One, it helps Dover put out a nice welcome mat for the thousands of visitors who will be in town for Dover Days, and two, it will help to draw those visitors downtown where they can continue to make a positive economic impact on our community."

The following merchants have registered: Bel Boutique, Delaware Made General Store, Ordway Group CPAs, Signature Stitches, Dover Newsstand, Suds Bar Soap & Essentials, Fashion Connection, Ancient Way Massage & Day Spa, Madison's Essentials, Next Level Clothing, Needful Things, Simon's Bridal Shoppe, Zuha Trend, Bell, Book, & Candle, Forney's Ltd, Zuha Trend/New Class Act and Forney's Too.

To participate, merchants, eateries and businesses in the downtown district should complete the entry form (there's no charge to participate), and have their businesses decorated by Monday, April 30. Judging will take place on May 2 followed by the announcement of the winners during First Friday, May 4.

First place winner will receive $100; second, $50 and third, $25. All winners will receive ribbons to place in their windows for the weekend.

Ms. James, who is coordinating the competition, is a Revitalization Specialist and AmeriCorps VISTA currently working at the Delaware Economic Development Office under the Downtown Delaware program. She will be visiting businesses during the months of March and April to encourage participation in the program.

This year marks the 79th anniversary of Dover Days. Merchants, businesses and restaurants are encouraged to trim their storefronts in red, white and blue, or with other Dover Days images such as a flower garden motif, a Colonial theme, tri-corner hats or maypole dancing.

For more information or to obtain a participation form, contact Kent County Tourism at 302-734-1736.

"Picturing WWI: The American Illustration Collection of the Delaware National Guard," featuring the work of professional Delaware illustrators, Frank E. Schoonover (1877-1972) and Gayle Porter Hoskins (1887-1962) will open Friday, May 4 from 5 to 8 p.m. in conjunction with Dover's First Friday festivities at the Biggs Museum of American Art.

Mr. Schoonover and Ms. Hoskins are among Delaware's most famous illustrators of the early 20^th century. In a time before televisions or even the widespread use of radio, Americans received their news and entertainment from popular magazines and illustrations. Both Mr. Schoonover and Ms. Hoskins were commissioned by one of America's most popular magazines, The Ladies Home Journal, to illustrate key events and scenes from WWI for thousands of readers.

"Picturing WWI" will be on display through June 24 at the Biggs Museum located at 406 Federal St. in Dover. For more information and museum hours, visit www.biggsmuseum.org.  

By now you’ve probably heard that the Firefly Music Festival is headed to The Woodlands of Dover International Speedway July 20-22.
Featuring such acts as The Killers, The Black Keys, John Legend, Jack White and more than 40 more, excitement over the biggest concert festival to come to the First State spread quickly around town and on social media sites Monday morning as soon as the news broke.
Some even thought it was possibly a late April Fools’ Day prank.
But indeed, a limited amount of early-bird three-day passes went on sale Thursday at noon on Firefly’s website for $178 and officials say they sold out in 20 minutes. Advance tickets are now on sale for $198 and then after they sell out, tickets are $218.
Some music fans have expressed concern over having to buy tickets for all three days, wondering if single-day tickets were going to be available. Reached Wednesday, however, Firefly spokeswoman Lauren Shield said “We are only offering three-day passes at this time.”
A check of the website shows that Firefly is also offering three-day VIP and Super VIP passes starting initially at $595 and $1,195, respectively.
VIP passes offer amenities such as a private cash bar offering specialty liquor, wine and beer; catered gourmet and traditional meals throughout the day; and access to an air-conditioned VIP lounge and shaded seating.
Super VIP passes allow everything from on-stage viewing for several main stage shows, golf cart concierge between stages, VIP access to an exclusive Saturday night casino concert to free hot air balloon rides and much more.
Along with camping options, Firefly has also introduced a new term — Glamping.
According to the site, “with all-inclusive Glamping, guests will have all the amenities of a luxury hotel in the form of their own private safari tent, located steps from the festival entrance.”
Attractions will include the balloon rides, local artists to paint and personalize your canvas TOMS sneakers, arcade games and an interactive art gallery.
Proving that some people around here are pretty good at keeping secrets, officials have been working behind the scenes on this for months.
One of those officials, Cindy Small, executive director of Kent County Tourism, couldn’t be more excited about Firefly.
“The Firefly Music Festival is a wonderful addition to our portfolio of events, and it will bring a different genre of music to Dover,” she said.
“It should draw a new audience to our area, providing a much-needed influx of business to our hotels, restaurants and retailers.”
For updates on Firefly, keep an eye on this space.

We just received word that Dover's Madison Wright will have the honor of singing the national anthem at Philadelphia's Wells Fargo Center prior to the April 15 Philadelphia Soul arena football game against the San Jose Saber Cats.

Madison was given the chance to do it after winning the grand prize in October's Sing for a Cause talent competition at the Schwartz Center for the Arts in Dover. The singing contest benefitted the Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity.

Madison won her 13-17 age group and then went on to take the grand prize in the finals of the competition. 

They are getting the band back together and taking it to Dover's Fordham Brewery Co. April 25.
The beer mecca at 1284 McD Drive will be showing the classic comedy "The Blues Brothers" at 7:30 that night on the outside of the building.
For $5, patrons get the movie, three beers and a popcorn. Guests are also asked to bring a blanket or chair and a can of food to benefit The Shepherd Place homeless shelter in Dover.
Fordham Bier Dawgs and bottled water will also be sold that night. All of the proceeds of Bier Dawg sales will also go to Shepherd Place.
"Our brewery believes deeply in giving back to the community that has welcomed us," said Fordham marketing coordinator Lauren Bigelow.
"We also welcome the opportunity to have another reason to drink beer and have fun with the friends that we have made here."
Ms. Bigelow said Fordham hopes to make movie night a twice-a-year event and is already kicking around ideas for next time.
Tickets are available in advance at the brewery or call 678-4810, Ext. 201.

In today's Delaware State News, read about the three-day Firefly Music Festival coming to a wooded area outside Dover International Speedway July 20-22.

The rock concert, the biggest Delaware has ever seen, will include headliners Jack White, The Black Keys and The Killers and also include such acts as Death Cab for Cutie and John Legend. In all, about 45 artists are expected to appear.

The event will also include a wine and beer garden, food options and hot-air balloon rides.

For a full list of bands and more, see today's paper or visit www.fireflyfestival.com.

Just got off the phone with Stu Cook, bassist and one of the founding members of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame band Creedence Clearwater Revival. 

He will be at Dover Downs April 13 with Creedence co-founder Doug "Cosmo" Clifford as their band Creedence Clearwater Revisited take the stage, performing many of their classic hits.

In a far-ranging interview, Mr. Cook talked about the early days of the band; their appearance at Woodstock and eventual exclusion from the movie and album; and his relationship with former CCR frontman John Fogerty. On the latter, don't expect to see a reunion any time soon.

"Probably not," he said. "When Doug and I started the Revisited project (in 1995), we asked John if he wanted to play again. It probably would have made sense at the time but not now.

"John has been out as a solo artist since 1997. He had refused to play the Creedence stuff for decades and then started to play it again after Doug and I reformed. I heard him say recently that he could have interest in a reunion but Doug and I are the people to talk to - not some reporter for the Toronto Times. We thought 'Wait a minute. We can't even have a cup of coffee and he says he is open to a reunion?' Our management contacted him but there doesn't seem to be much truth to it so we dismissed it. He might have had a moment of deliriousness. Who was he going to reunite with? It obviously wasn't us."

Read the whole interview with Mr. Cook on Friday in this week's Best Bets in Finally Friday! and in the Entertainment section of delaware.newszap.com

Tickets for the April 13 show are on sale for $35-$85, and may be purchased by calling VIP Services at 800-711-5882 or visiting www.doverdowns.com/entertainment.

On Saturday at 7:30 p.m., the nationally recognized Brandywine Harps will perform its “Celtic Crossings” concert at the historic Smyrna Opera House.
Director Janet Witman, a U.S. National Scottish Harp champion, will lead the 16-harp orchestra, singers and special guests on a musical journey featuring musical selections from Ireland and Scotland.

“I am thrilled to bring back the Brandywine Harp Orchestra for our third concert at the charming Smyrna Opera House. Our Celtic harpers are ready to take our audience on a musical Celtic journey, featuring Smyrna’s talented Foraker sisters, Lauren and Emily, and a visit from the ancient Irish King, Brian Boru.”

Advanced tickets are $14 and $16 at the door. Family four-packs are $36.

Discounts are available for children 12 and under and students with ID.

Tickets can be purchased by calling (302) 653-4236; via web at www.smyrnaoperahouse.org; or, in person at the Smyrna Opera House, corner of South and Main street. Box office hours are Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

It's All Good in Delaware Inc, is busy planning the fourth annual You Deserve A Night Out dance, which will be held again at the Sheraton Dover Hotel, 1570 North DuPont Highway, Dover. This year YDANO will be held Friday, April 20 from 8 p.m. to midnight. Live music will be provided by the popular local bands Glass Onion and The Funsters.

Advance tickets are $30 through April 15; $35 at the door. Also available are raffle tickets for chances to win a 46-inch Vizio 3DTV, a Kindle Fire, NASCAR jackets, a night at Sleep Inn in Lewes and dinner for two. Raffle tickets are $5 each, five tickets for $20.

You don't have to present to win.

Tickets are on sale now and can be obtained through the IAG website www.itsallgoodindelaware.com, emailing itsallgoodindelaware@gmail.com by calling 698-1799 or through any IAG board member.

The fall and winter of 2011-2012 was a busy season for IAG. In addition to helping a number of families, IAG contributed to the Stuff The Bus campaign for food bank contributions, made a substantial contribution to Kay's Kamp (a summer day camp for children with cancer), and contributed to the Bless Our Children Campaign Challenge.

All donations, including ticket purchases, are tax deductible.

Artists participating in the Dover Days Plein Air Paint Out on May 6 will be showcased at the Dover Art League on Friday, June 1 during the Downtown Dover First Friday event from 5 to 7 p.m.

"We are thrilled to be adding this new activity to Dover Days," said Lorraine Dion, Dover Days event coordinator.

"Artists will be painting on The Green and within two blocks of The Green in Dover's beautiful historic district. Now, their works will be part of a public exhibition and reception in their honor during First Friday in June," she added.

The Dover Days Festival will host the Plein Air Paint Out on Sunday, May 6 on The Green and in Dover's historic district, with $500 in cash prizes, open to all artists 18 years and age and older.

The public is invited to the Paint Out, free of charge, to see artists capturing historic Dover on paper and canvas.

An independent judge will select, for cash awards (sponsored by Kent County Tourism) and gift certificates (sponsored by Blick Art Supplies).

To register before May 2, artists (18 and older) may take canvases and check for $20 to the Kent County Tourism Office, Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Artists may also register from 10 to 11 a.m. on May 6 by taking canvases to The Green on State Street in Dover with check for $25. Pre-registered artists must check in at that time

Artists' check-in and registration is 10-11 a.m.; painting takes place 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; judging from 2 to 3 p.m.; followed by an awards ceremony and reception on The Green. Rain date is Sunday, May 13.

For more information or to register, call Kent County Tourism, 302-734-8309 or 800-233-5368.

This year's Dover Days Festival, full of food vendors, parades, an arts festival, car show, maypole dancing and more is slated for May 4-6.

On Saturday, April 7 the Smyrna Opera House will offer "Easter Egg-Travaganza" for children between the ages of 4 through 9.

Beginning at 10 a.m., participants will have an opportunity to engage in hands-on arts activities and make their own homemade terrarium. They also will explore the historic Smyrna Opera House auditorium and stage area searching for hidden Easter eggs! A free snack is also included.

Registration is limited to the first 50 children. Tickets are $10 with adults free. Two-packs are $18. Contact the Smyrna Opera House box office at (302) 653-4236; via web at www.smyrnaoperahouse.org; or in person at the Smyrna Opera House, corner of South and Main streets, Smyrna.

MILFORD — A chance to showcase entertainment skills comes at the "Milford's Got Talent" contest at the upcoming Milford Memorial Hospital Fair on Saturday, May 19.

"Milford's Got Talent" will be open for up to eight entertainers in three age categories: under 13 years old, 13-18 years old and over 18 years old.

Performances must be limited to less than five minutes, have no more than five people per act, and perform material that is suitable for a family audience.

Applications may be picked up from the Milford Memorial Hospital Gift Shop at 21 W. Clarke Ave. in Milford or downloaded from www.bayhealth.org. Completed applications must be submitted before May 12.

The 55th Annual Milford Memorial Hospital Fair takes place on the grounds of Milford Middle School from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Each year, the Milford Memorial Hospital Auxiliary sponsors the fair to raise money to fund programs and purchase lifesaving equipment for Milford Memorial Hospital.

For more information about the Hospital Fair, visit www.bayhealth.org. or contact Pat Fisher at (302) 422-7032 or Bev French at (302) 424-4465.

The musical “Bugsy Malone” will be staged March 29 and 30 at 6:30 p.m. and March 31 at 2 p.m. at Dover High School

General admission tickets are $10. For more information, email Takara Hopps at takara.hopps@capital.k12.de.us.

Kent County Tourism announced this week that the Delmarva Historic Haunts programs scheduled for Dover Days have been canceled. 

“We will be refunding 100 percent of the registration fees as soon as possible. We apologize for the inconvenience and to Delmarva Historic Haunts who has worked tirelessly to bring unique programming to the Dover Days Festival, and promote the event,” said Cindy Small, Kent County Tourism executive director.

“Two of the four programs were completely sold out and we anticipated that all four would have been. Again, we apologize.”

This year’s Dover Days Festival is slated for May 4-6.

A new exhibit featuring the Board of Agriculture Glass Negative Photograph Collection is now on display at the Delaware Public Archives.
Running through the middle of June, the exhibit focuses on the photographs of Roydon Hammond, a seed analyst with the Delaware Board of Agriculture, who took more than 2,000 photographs of scenes throughout the First State during the 1920s and 1930s.

Mr. Hammond believed the glass negative process of photography would provide him with the sharpest images.

The 1920s and 1930s were a period of great change in Delaware's agriculture. The once-great peach industry had reached its lowest point, while the improvement of the highway system had stimulated the production of truck crops and dairy products. Delaware's most important agricultural activity, broiler chicken production, was developed at this time and experienced rapid growth that helped soften the effects of the Great Depression on the state's farmers.

In addition to agricultural subjects, Mr. Hammond also photographed other areas of Delaware life in the 1920s and 1930s.

A wide range of topics included business and industry, churches, city and town scenes, historic markers and monuments, houses, portraits, public buildings, recreation, schools, and transportation. Because the photographs were used for promotional and tourism purposes, scenes depicting the Great Depression are not present. To view the entire collection online, visit de.gov/deagphotos.

There is now more space at Clear Space as the company unveiled its new stage at the opening of “My Fair Lady” on March 16.

A 16-by-24 thrust was recently installed in the Rehoboth Beach theatre, which connects to the existing stage, nearly doubling the size of the playing space for performers. Production designer Chris McLaughlin led the charge on this project, assisted by scenic carpenter Tom Craft and a team of volunteers. The project took nearly six days to complete, with two of these being the major construction days.

Audience members will now surround the performers on three sides of the stage, creating a more intimate experience in the 150-seat theatre.

“This really frees us from even the temptation of doing a show with a fixed unit set,” said Mr. McLaughlin. “The action must be clearly seen from three sides, so any large set pieces in this area are out of the question. Essentially, Clear Space just got a whole lot clearer.”

“Our audience members are not the only people getting a new experience from this,” said David Button, co-director of “My Fair Lady.” “The thrust stage presents a new acting challenge for all cast members and directors. Performers are constantly on the move so that audience members, no matter where they are seated, can see everything that is happening. It really keeps everyone on their toes.”

The new stage sits two feet above the floor of the theatre, with ramps leading down to exits through the audience both sides. Steps lead up another two feet in the back to the original stage, which will be used for stationary scenes – in the case of “My Fair Lady,” Professor Higgins’ study.
Clear Space Theatre Company’s production of “My Fair Lady” runs March 16-April 1 at the Clear Space Theatre, with performances Friday and Saturday evenings at 7 and Sundays at 3 p.m.

Tickets, priced $30 for adults, $25 for seniors and $15 for students/children, are available online at www.ClearSpaceTheatre.org, by phone at 302-227-2270 or in person at the box office, located at 20 Baltimore Ave.

On Friday, April 6 at 8 p.m., historical interpreters from the First State Heritage Park dressed in colonial attire will relate the stories of historic Dover. as lantern tours return.

The Dover Green was the site of markets and fairs, suffragists and abolitionists, soldiers and slaves, lawmakers and law breakers. Hear tales of the most infamous resident of Dover's jail, of devastating fires that threatened the town, of poisonings and tragic love.

Admission to all lantern tours is $5. Space is limited; call (302) 739-9194 to reserve your lantern. Lantern tours cancelled due to inclement weather will not be rescheduled.

For more information about this and other programs, call 302-739-9194. The First State Heritage Park can be found online at www.destateparks.com/heritagepark

Area St. Patrick’s Day celebrations will also be highlighted by a couple of pub crawls.

Dover Downs Hotel & Casino will hold its first St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl on Saturday. It will begin at 4 p.m. with registration in Fire & Ice and follow a course to the Gazebo Bar, Terrace Bar, Race & Sports Book and Frankie’s.

Guests may collect trinkets at each outlet, representing entries into prize drawings for dinner for two at Frankie’s, an overnight hotel stay, a $100 resort card and more.

Fire & Ice will have a most spirited contest, karaoke, the Irish folk band Coel Mor, an Irish jig contest between 7 and 9 p.m. and more.
Other festivities include drink and food specials at each restaurant and bar. To further acknowledge the holiday, the hotel will be lighted green for the evening.

Downtown Milford, Inc. is hosting Toasting the Town: St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl.

Eventgoers will purchase a T-shirt around the town prior to the event and then walk around downtown Milford on Saturday anytime after 5 p.m., in the hopes of receiving a check mark next to every participating vendor’s logo on the back of their shirt.

Event T-shirts are being sold for $15 at Abbott’s Grill, Blooming Boutique, Fur~Baby Boutique, Georgia House, Miss Q’s Bar and Billiards, Park Place and the Second Street Players Theatre.

Participating vendors will have specials for T-shirt wearers such as: discounted drinks and food specials, free wine and beer tastings from Fenwick Wine Cellars and 16 Mile Brewing Co., ($2 without a T-shirt).

Additionally, the Mispillion River will be aglow in green for the evening.

For more information, contact Sara Pletcher at sara@downtownmilford.org.

Like Santa Claus at Christmas, this is Sean Fleming's busy season.

A musician for more than 40 years, Mr. Fleming, a native of Ireland, is much in demand for those looking for a St. Patrick's Day soundtrack.

In the last seven days, his Sean Fleming Band has played venues in Cleveland, New York, Connecticut and New Jersey.

"In the last two and a half days, we've done 1,200 miles of driving and performed three gigs. It's definitely a particularly crazy time of year," he said Tuesday.

Next on the itinerary is Dover as the band plays for tonight's Irish Society of Delmarva annual St. Patrick's Day Party at the Dover Elks Lodge, 200 Saulsbury Road. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the band playing from 7 to 11.

Born in a golf clubhouse on the lakes of Killarney, Mr. Fleming said music has always been a part of his life.

"It was ingrained in me from an early age. My parents both were big music people and it's been a part of my life for as long as I can remember," he said.
At a young age, Mr. Fleming began playing traditional Irish music in Irish dance halls, later forming the Rocketeers Irish Showband, which eventually toured throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Although a musician in Ireland, upon coming to the states at the age of 16, he never expected to continue his success here.

"I just came to the United States just to upgrade my life. But within a week of arriving here, I was playing music clubs and getting paid for it. I got more and more gigs and it just mushroomed," said Mr. Fleming, who now lives in Nyack, N.Y., in what he calls "a very creative community," alongside neighbors Rosie O'Donnell and film director Jonathan Demme.
His first big break came through talk show host Merv Griffin, who chose Mr. Fleming from the audience to play on his show which consequently led to several more appearances over the next couple of years. He has shared the spotlight with such artists as The Beach Boys, Della Reese and Rodney Dangerfield.

His backing musicians, drummer Steve Holley, guitarist Justin Jordan and bassist Bruce Gordon, have an equally rich pedigree, having played with the likes of Paul McCartney, Elton John, The Turtles and Ray Davies.

"We've all played together for over 20 years and have just hit it off and all have really the same philosophy when it comes to performing," Mr. Fleming said.

That philosophy is a simple yet ambitious one.

"Every time I stand on a stage, whether it's for 20 people at a house concert or 5,000 at a festival, I always want something to happen that people will remember for a long time to come," he said.

"Whether it's one song or one moment, I really strive to make an imprint on every person that comes to see us."
While tonight's show will lean heavily on Irish tunes, Mr. Fleming said there will be something for everyone.
"We play everything and really try to stay on the cutting edge. We'll do a lot of cover stuff that will make you get up and dance — from the oldies right up to Adele," he said.

But it's those Irish tunes that he knows people will want to hear this time of year and he is more than happy to oblige.

"I always describe Irish music as 'joyful' and 'uplifting.' Irish music can touch your heart more than any other music I know. In this day and age, when you find something to give you a good lift, I don't think that's a bad thing at all," he said.

And after 40 years and untold miles, Mr. Fleming is not ready to pack it up anytime soon.

"To be honest, I was thinking about this the other day. I really have no desire to retire. It's not in the cards for me. I don't know what I'd do if I had the standard job where you retired at age 65," he said.
"Look at Tony Bennett. He's in his (80s) and still singing with Lady Gaga. How cool is that?"

Tickets for tonight's party are $25 at the door. There will be a cash bar with light snacks provided. There will also be door prizes, 50/50 raffle, a basket of cheer raffle and a free memento.

For more information, contact Robin Engstenberg at (302) 674-4834.

If you think there’s nothing funny about getting older, a group of comedians may change your mind.

Whether you’re single, married or divorced, the standup comedy show “Four Sides of 40” makes light of middle age March 16 at Dover’s Schwartz Center for the Arts.

The show features single guy Lenny Marcus, newlywed Al Ducharme, married father of three girls Eric McMahon and divorcee Patty Rosborough giving their takes from their very different points of view.

“We’re all headliners in comedy clubs with over 80 years of standup experience between us,” Mr. McMahon said.

“I’m biased but it’s really a quality show. You’re going to have a hard time deciding who you like best.”

The show was the brainchild of Mr. McMahon, who handpicked each of the comics.

“We all knew each other from The Comic Strip in New York City and it’s really nice to take this out of the comedy club and put it into theaters, where you don’t have to deal with waitresses and bartenders and spilled drinks,” he said.

“It just makes for a nicer experience for the audience and for us on stage.”

Mr. McMahon thinks the travails of 40-somethings make for a perfect topic of humor due to each comedian having a great deal of “life experience.”
“You go see a comedian in his 20s and what does he know? He’ll go up and talk about smoking pot in his parents’ basement for 20 minutes. Each of us our own voice,” he said.

Case in point.

“(Single man) Lenny calls himself a curmudgeon. He will just never be happy and he will tell you that,” Mr. McMahon said.

“(Newlywed) Al bounced around New York City so much and has so many stories as anyone does who waited until they were in their 40s to get married. I’m old and married with kids and talk about all the grief that comes with that.

“And Patty is divorced from a man who turned out to be gay. There’s a lot of life experience there and the audience gets to know each one of us and comes into our lives.”

Although the show is targeted to those in their late 30s to early 50s, Mr. McMahon said he sees all demographics at their shows.
“I’ll get good-looking young girls coming up to me after the show and say, ‘Oh my gosh, you are just like my dad.’ One part of you wants to say, ‘Well that doesn’t make me feel any better,’” he joked.

“But it’s nice to hear. They themselves also get a kick out of knowing this is what they have to look forward to. And older folks remember what it was like, so they like it too.”

Mr. McMahon cautions that the show is for those 21 years and older as it does contain material that could be considered PG-13 rated.
He says the show fills a niche for those not looking to see the run-of the-mill comedy show.

“Once you hit 30 years old, you are treated like a dinosaur in the standup comedy world. No one wants to even look at you. But I’m funnier now than I’ve ever been,” said Mr. McMahon who has worked with comedians as diverse as Ray Romano to Andrew Dice Clay.

“If I get a funny thought, I’ll go up on stage that night and try it out. It’s not like it is with the younger kids who don’t understand the process. They are more concerned with their image and look and what their management tells them is funny. If it’s funny, it’s funny.”

Ultimately, he’d like to do for middle age what The Blue Collar Comedy Tour has done for rednecks.

“Hopefully a kind of show like this has legs and a place like HBO will take a look and realize there is a market for this kind of comedy,” he said.
Tickets for the 7 p.m. show at the theater at 226 S. State St., are $30 for adults, $27 for seniors/military, $22 for students and $18 for children 12 and under, although the humor is adult in nature.

For more information or to reserve tickets, call the box office Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at (302) 678-5152 or visit www.schwartzcenter.com.

For more on the show, visit www.foursidesof40.com.

If he were alive today, musician E. Shawn Qaissaunee thinks his father would be very proud.
A big believer in education and the library system, the reading room in the new Dover Public Library, scheduled to open in mid-September, is set to be named for his father Abdul, an environmental engineer and professor at Wesley College. Dr. Qaissaunee died in 2001 at the age of 68.
In an effort to raise money for the construction of the room, Shawn Qaissaunee’s quintet, featuring his wife and vocalist Sharon Sable, will perform Saturday night at Wesley Chapel on the corner of Division and Bradford streets in Dover for a night of music, a silent auction and refreshments.
“My dad would have been very excited about this,” Mr. Qaissaunee said. “My mom (Barbara) is a retired librarian and very passionate about this as well. She’s talking about it 25 hours a day it seems like.”
The reading room effort began last April after a concert by Mr. Qaissaunee and Ms. Sable at the Delaware Public Archives for First Friday.
“It was my mother’s idea and it was announced that night. But we didn’t necessarily want to ask people for donations then. But people just started opening their wallets and the money started coming in. It was quite astonishing really,” said Mr. Qaissaunee, who was born in Afghanistan but relocated with his family to Dover when he was 1 year old and now lives in Wilmington.
Saturday night’s silent auction will include items such as an overnight stay in Kennett Square, Pa., with admission to the Hagley Museum in Wilmington; tickets to the Grand Opera House; a Delaware Valley museum package; and a Kids Day at Chuck E. Cheese.
But the main attraction of the evening will be the mostly Brazillian-tinged jazz by Mr. Qaissaunee on guitar and piano and Ms. Sable at Wesley Chapel.
They recently performed at the chapel for a Delaware Friends of Folk coffeehouse event and Mr. Qaissaunee said they loved the sound of the venue.
“It’s a really nice place to play. I contacted Wesley to find out how much it would cost to rent it for the evening but they went ahead and donated it to us, which was really nice of them,” he said.
The duo will be joined by bassist Andy Lalasis, percussionist Harry “Butch” Reed and trombonist John Harris.
A pianist since he was very young and guitarist since ninth grade, Mr. Qaissaunee found jazz in his sophomore year at Dover High after listening to a record by the late great jazz guitarist Wes Montgomery.
“There is a great freedom in jazz that doesn’t exist in many other forms of music. The improvisation in it makes it a real pleasure to just create your own sound,” said Mr. Qaissaunee, who shuns the label of jazz artist opting instead to be known as an improvisational musician.
Mr. Qaissaunee is a Berklee College of Music alumnus and has been in demand as a multi-instrumentalist and composer for nearly 20 years. He is sought out for his talents on guitar, bass, piano and both the rubab and dutar, instruments from his native Afghanistan.
His most recent CD, recorded in 2007, is entitled “The Afghan Project.”
“I’m just really fascinated with the Afghan culture on my father’s side. My mother is from Virginia. I can drive there. It’s not as exotic,” he joked.
“I’d really like to get back there someday.”
He has opened for the likes of Al Green, Derek Trucks and Joss Stone and studied and performed with luminaries such as David Bromberg, Benny Golson and Pat Martino.
“When I found his music, I just freaked out,” said Mr. Qaissaunee of Mr. Martino.
“Up to that point, I had just been exposed to jazz guitar that was kind of mellow. Pat was mellow but he can also be very fiery, which I liked and I focused on that style after that.”
Tickets for the evening are $15 in advance or $20 at the door. They can be purchased at the Dover Public Library on State Street or Forney’s on Loockerman Street. The goal of the project is to raise $9,000, some of which has already been donated by Forney’s.
“My dad was a guy who family members knew they could come to with any important decision. He wasn’t a big talker but he would listen very intently and then tell you exactly what he thought,” Mr. Qaissaunee said.
“He was just very respected and very much loved.”

Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Downstate Delaware?
On the surface, one of these things is not like the other, but magician Will Fern would disagree.
With Millville’s Dickens Parlour Theatre featuring top magicians and the city of Milford holding monthly Magic Mondays, where Mr. Fern will be featured next week, the North Jersey resident says our area is becoming a mecca for magic.
“As far as really top places to see magic goes, there is the Magic Castle in Los Angeles and the Dickens Theatre in Delaware,” said Mr. Fern, who has appeared at both venues.
“And when a place like Milford gets behind magic, that really makes a person like me get excited to really want to knock their socks off. Magic is really not a known art. Beyond the magicians who appear in Las Vegas, there really aren’t a whole lot of folks who people know.”
Mr. Fern will amaze and astound at the Milford Senior Center at 111 Park Ave. Monday night at 7 as part of Downtown Milford Inc.’s series that started last month with Dickens owner Rich Bloch. That January show drew an audience of more than 200.
DMI is producing the shows in conjunction with Mr. Bloch and Dickens, who next month will bring mentalist Jon Stetson to town.
“What Rich did at the Dickens was very special. He is such a good guy and a real ambassador of magic. He has mentored so many young magicians and is the rare person who can produce tricks as well as perform them flawlessly,” Mr. Fern said.
Mr. Fern has earned plenty of kudos himself, winning the International Brotherhood of Magician’s Award for the International Champion of Strolling Magic in July and in 2010, he was named one of 10 Stars of Magic by the National Theater in Washington.
Although his show Monday night will be more of a traditional stage show, mixing humor and magic, Mr. Fern’s strolling magic is his mainstay. He is regularly featured in bars, restaurants and corporate events where he will do close-up magic for anyone who has a few moments to be mystified.
“Strolling magic forces you to be very tight and sharp. Folks are right there in front of you watching everything that you do. There are those who do well on stage who don’t do well in that kind of an environment and vice versa,” he said.
“It took me about 10 years to get comfortable enough before I really felt like I had a good, solid stage show.”
He points to the universal appeal of magic as one of its real highlights.
“It’s one of the rare art forms that can engage a 5-year-old just as much as it can a 95-year-old. Vegas shunned magic for years before they realized how potent it can be for the whole family,” he said.
Mr. Fern vividly remembers entertaining at a restaurant one night and seeing three women — a grandmother, mother and daughter — sitting at a table looking rather unhappy.
“I went up to them and asked if they wanted to see some magic and they did. I started doing something and the youngest girl just sat their with her eyes wide open and all of them just started getting so excited to the point where the woman next to them told them to keep it down,” he said.
“After I walked away, the mother came up to me and asked if she could hug me. She said ‘I haven’t seen them so happy in over a year since my dad died and I can’t thank you enough.’ It was a wonderful thing to hear.”
Mr. Fern got the magic bug at 7 years old when his brother’s teacher came by the house one day and showed young Will a trick.
“I asked him ‘How do I get to be like you?’ He told me to go to the library and study up. I ended up checking out a 400-page book that I had no business having at that age,” Mr. Fern said.
“I ended up checking it out of the library for literally three years straight. Forty years and 4,000 books later, he we are.”
Mr. Fern regularly performs for leading corporations at their events and at many venues around the world.
Although always having an interest in magic, Mr. Fern made sales his living not thinking he could make much money at magic. That all changed about 20 years ago.
“I met a magician named Tim Conover at a corporate event who told me how much he made at one of those and it was more than I made doing sales in a month,” he said.
“I just started knocking on doors and ended up performing at the No. 1 restaurant in New Jersey doing what I really love to do.”
Tickets for Monday’s show are available at the DMI office at 7 S. Washington St., the Milford Senior Center and online at downtownmilford.org. Prices are $15 for adults and $10 for children under 12. For more information call DMI at 302-839-1180.

Grammy, CMA and ACM award winner Sugarland will perform at the 2012 M&T Bank Grandstand at the Delaware State Fair on Saturday, July 21 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets go on sale Thursday at 10 a.m. at www.DelawareStateFair.com.
“We are thrilled to welcome back such a high-caliber artist as Sugarland to perform here at the 2012 Delaware State Fair. We are currently working to book and opening act for Sugarland, so keep checking our website for more details,” said Danny Aguilar, assistant general manager and director of marketing.
Tickets are $69 for track and stadium seating and $64 for grandstand and clubhouse seating. Tickets for the new orchestra pit section are $94.
The “pit” section is located just feet away from the stage and will be a general admission, standing room only (with no chairs) section. All other tickets (track, stadium, grandstand, and clubhouse) will be reserved seating with chairs. Concert attendance does require the purchase of a separate gate admission ticket.
The country music duo of Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush, which was last at the fair in 2007, are embracing a creative rebirth, a musical awakening that permeates their adventurous fourth album, “The Incredible Machine.”
“We are in a place of discovery,” Ms. Nettles said.
“It is the essence of who we are as people in this band. There is never a moment where we think, ‘This is good enough.’ There’s always a place for growth.”
Co-written and co-produced in full by Ms. Nettles and Mr. Bush, “The Incredible Machine” is an album elevated by sky-high choruses, ringing guitars, and pulsing drums that recall the beating of the album’s titular engine, the human heart.
The 2012 Delaware State Fair will be held July 19-28.
Currently, Jason Aldean, Larry the Cable Guy, and Casting Crowns tickets are already on sale.
Officials say that other artists in the Delaware State Fair Summer Concert Series will be announced in the coming months as each artist is confirmed.

Of all of her collections, Ann Marcus of Wilmington takes one to heart.
A longtime lover of antiquing, Ms. Marcus came across a pop-up valentine popular in the late 19th and early 20th century in a Maryland shop more than 15 years ago.
"They are just so pretty, really lovely and very complicated," Ms. Marcus said.
A decade and a half later, she has amassed more than 1,000 of them, many of which will be displayed at The Biggs Museum of American Art in Dover starting today in an exhibit entitled "Loving Traditions."
Her collection includes cards decorated with the iconic valentine motifs of flowers, hearts and cupids. These collapsible three-dimensional, or "pop-up" cards, became especially popular with the addition of delicate layers of brightly colored tissue paper and a sculptural quality that was easily mailed.
"I have many collections including things like napkin rings of which I have over 100 — more than I'll ever use — and I got carried away with these too I guess," Ms. Marcus said.
"But with the valentines, you can put them in albums and drawers and take them out and look at them at your leisure."
Mrs. Marcus said her collection of pop-up valentines range from 3 inches to "massive."
Last produced in the 1920s, although some are still made today, Mrs. Marcus said the delicate valentines are getting to be very hard to find.
"About the only places you can find them now are in antique stores and there is a valentines association where people from across the country can purchase them from each other," she said
"And of course eBay has changed the world. But they are getting progressively harder to find. That's for sure."
She said many antique stores will have them available in February, around Valentine's Day, but the rest of the time she has to specifically ask for them.
Mrs. Marcus said the valentines are a fascinating glimpse into history as well.
"If you look on the back of them, often you can see a child's handwriting and see who they sent them to," she said.
Some she said have pictures of flowers on them which would be a code known only between the sender and recipient.
"This was mainly during the Victorian era where the flower meant different things to different people depending on the code," she said.
"There were many layers to some of them."
This is the second time she has displayed her collection for others to enjoy. Mrs. Marcus got in touch with Biggs curator Ryan Grover through a friend who thought Mr. Grover would be interested in them.
"I just turned over my whole collection to him and said 'Go through them and see what you think. Pick what you think people would be interested in.' I love them all. It would be impossible for me to choose," Mrs. Marcus said.
She has also displayed some of the valentines at an antique club in Florida, where they are staying until March, along with giving a talk on the history of valentines.
The exhibition, which will last through March 25, will be featured within the museum's new Curator Choice Gallery on the first floor. At the end of the exhibition, museum guests will find materials to create their own valentine cards in the museum's interactive art program gallery, Sewell's Studio.
"I think that is just a great idea," Mrs. Marcus said of the craft making.
"It will really give people a chance to see what they are all about."
For more information about the exhibit, call 302-674-2111. The Biggs Museum is at 406 Federal St.
The opening of the exhibit is part of downtown Dover's First Friday events, which include special sales, music and book signings. 

Art League reopens
After being closed for the month of January to rejuvenate inventory, Dover Art League, at 21 W. Loockerman St., will reopen today as another facet of First Friday.
As we told you last week, the Dover Art League presents an exhibition of watercolors and photographs by husband and wife artists Rosemary and Bob Connelly of Live Cheap and Make Art Studios in Milford. 
The exhibition, “From Italy, with Love”, will run through Feb. 29. The opening reception will be 5 to 7 p.m. Light refreshments will be available.
The exhibit will include more than 40 images, both original watercolors and photographs of Italy. At 6 p.m., at the opening reception, the Connellys will present a talk about the two years they lived in Italy along with a digital slide presentation. 
Also at the Dover Art League, “Art From the Heart” is the theme of a presentation of jewelry also occurring that evening. For those seeking inspiration for a piece of jewelry for a Valentine’s Day gift, Dover Art League will be showcasing the jewelry creations by member artists. 
A highlight of this event will be models wandering throughout the reception and gallery wearing selections of jewelry by Art League jewelers. All modeled pieces will be available for purchase at the event. 
For further information about this exhibit, call the Dover Art League at 302-674-0402, or visit www.doverartleague.com.

Casting Crowns at fair
Top recording Christian group Casting Crowns presented by 88.7 The Bridge will perform in the M&T Bank Grandstand at the 2012 Delaware State Fair on Friday, July 20. Tickets for the concert go on sale Thursday at 10 a.m. and can be purchased by visiting www.DelawareStateFair.com.
“In 2012, we wanted to explore the Christian genre of music as it is a genre that we have not showcased in many years. Along with our partners at 88.7 The Bridge, we felt that Casting Crowns was such a great fit”, says Danny Aguilar, assistant general manager and director of marketing.
“We are very excited to offer our patrons a different type of concert to attend.”
Tickets are $36 for track and stadium seats and $31 for grandstand and clubhouse seating. Tickets for the new orchestra pit section are $61.
The fair is set for July 19-28. Currently, Jason Aldean and Larry the Cable Guy tickets are on sale. Officials say other artists in the Delaware State Fair Summer Concert Series will be announced in the coming months.

Skrzesz leaving Clear Space
It was announced this week that Ken Skrzesz, co-founder and executive director of Clear Space Theatre Co. in Rehoboth Beach, has accepted a new position with the Anne Arundel County Public Schools to help guide their arts education programming, officially as the Performing and Visual Arts Magnet Events and Extended Day Teacher Specialist.
The first task he has been charged with will be to work with the faculty of the Performance Plus and Saturday in the Arts programs to clarify curriculum and instruction at Wiley H. Bates Middle School in Annapolis. While working at Bates, Mr. Skrzesz will be instrumental in the creation of a new performing arts high school for the district.
“While I am heartbroken about leaving Clear Space and the wonderful community here, the next phase of my life is also very exciting,” said Mr. Skrzesz.
“I fell in love with the people here. Their remarkable generosity has allowed and will continue to allow Clear Space to thrive and grow in wonderful new ways.”
In eight years, Mr. Skrzesz developed, nurtured and guided what started as a discussion between himself, co-founder and Artistic Director Doug Yetter and members of the community into one of the most successful arts organizations in the state.
“I’m not certain anyone else could have believed as strongly in the dream of bringing professional quality theater to the area in the same way Ken always did,” Mr. Yetter said.
In addition to directing and choreographing nearly 50 shows for Clear Space and writing the book and lyrics for their annual production of “Scrooge!,” which has been staged many times at Dover’s Schwartz Center for the Arts, Mr. Skrzesz was a frequent performer with the company and instrumental in the development of the company’s performing arts classes.
Mr. Skrzesz will continue his involvement with Clear Space as a consultant and guest director.

At the movies
Starting today at Dover Mall’s Carmike 14 is the action-adventure films “Big Miracle” with John Krasinski and Drew Barrymore and “Chronicle”; and Daniel Radcliffe in the thriller “The Woman in Black.”
Coming to DVD Tuesday is “The Twilight Saga-Breaking Dawn Part 1” and “A Very Harold and Kumar Christmas.”

To share news of your entertainment group, venue or event, contact Craig Horleman at 741-8224 or chorl@newszap.com.
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