Good morning, Dover.

The Delaware Division of Small Business announced 17 finalists for the EDGE 2.0 Grant Pitch Competition, scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on April 30 and May 1 at Del-One Conference Center in Dover, as entrepreneurs and STEM startups compete for $1.15 million in funding.

Delaware gas prices reached $4.04 per gallon, up 6 cents overnight and 68 cents in the past month with an 89-cent increase since last year.

Rising crude oil costs due to Middle East tensions may push prices higher for drivers in the area.

The Delaware public advocate warned that Delmarva Power’s plan to raise default service rates by 18% to 20% effective June 1 — this increase is expected to boost bills by about 9% and leave customers facing higher costs.

Delaware voters will cast ballots at local polling places for school board elections on Tuesday, May 12 as Julia Keleher of First State Educate says the vote will set new directions in public education for early literacy, workforce readiness, and funding reform.

A new state bill will establish permitting for Delaware’s freshwater wetlands following nearly 40 years without state-level safeguards.

Conservation leaders support the Wetlands Stewardship Act, noting that protecting these vital areas helps preserve water quality and carbon storage; Sen. Stephanie Hansen has helped drive the effort.

Delaware’s updated Wildlife Action Plan was approved by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service last fall to guide conservation efforts through 2035.

The three-year effort includes 326 new plant species and an online searchable database for local use — a key tool for protecting wildlife.

The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) announced on April 8 a statewide evaluation of wastewater and drinking water infrastructure conditions in manufactured home communities to ensure safe water systems for residents.

U.S. Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester toured the new Kent County EMS station on Milford Neck Road in Frederica Tuesday to review federal-funded upgrades that include updated vehicles, advanced technology, and expanded space for emergency crews.

The improvements aim to speed up response times for residents.

State officials received bids from Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, PwC US Consulting LLP and Tiber Health Public Benefit Corporation (ahead of the March 27 deadline) to build a four-year medical school to boost rural health care.

They will name a winning bid on Friday, May 29.

Dover Duathlon

8 AM – 12 PM — Schutte Park — Cost details not specified — Compete in a thrilling duathlon in the heart of Dover.

Dover Delaware Women's Connection Breakfast

9:30-11:30 a.m. — Maple Dale Country Club — $25 inclusive — Connect with local women for a breakfast buffet featuring guest speakers and a fundraiser.

FrogTown Walks for Autism

1-7 p.m. — Dover Motor Speedway — $15 — Celebrate 20 years of unity and support for Delaware's autism community with this annual family reunion walk.

Paranormal Cirque Specter

7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. — Dover Mall — Ticket prices vary — Experience a thrilling, paranormal journey under a big top with acrobats and illusionists.

Pretty in Pink Spring Shopping & Networking Event

10 a.m. - 3 p.m. — The Ivory Studio and Events — Ticket required — Celebrate women-owned businesses with shopping, networking, and delightful light bites.

93rd Annual Dover Days Festival

5 PM-3 PM — The Green — Free entry — Celebrate Delaware’s heritage with a grand parade, local vendors, and live music at the annual Dover Days Festival.