Good morning, Dover.

Dover House of Hope received a $25,000 gift from NeighborGood Partners that will keep its 24-hour shelter for homeless women running for the next nine weeks, and the nonprofit will host its first gala fundraiser on May 23 at the Modern Maturity Center.

Regular unleaded gas prices jumped to more than $4.14 per gallon this week after falling to $3.89 last week, while diesel prices slid slightly, according to Delaware data.

The shift highlights changing fuel costs in our area.

The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control has issued a statewide open burn ban starting May 1 to protect air quality.

The ban (running through Sept. 30) allows outdoor cooking fires, campfires, and ceremonial bonfires using approved fuels.

A young grey seal rescued at a public dock (St. Jones River) was cared for overnight at MERR’s facility and flown to New York Marine Rescue early on Wednesday, April 29, after showing signs of distress.

Community members, including a fisher and police, helped complete the rescue.

The Dover Police Department named Corporal Heather Seibert as 2025 Officer of the Year and Animal Control Officer Caitlyn Smith as 2025 Civilian of the Year, marking the first time in its 101-year history that both awards were earned by women - a milestone that honors their dedication to community service.

Stephen Stoll and Nathan Yoder’s A Blue Million clinched the $22,500 Open Trot at Harrington Raceway on Wednesday with a 1:56.1 finish.

The race energized track fans + highlighted competitive local racing.

Dover Motor Speedway will enhance its fan experience for the NASCAR All-Star Race weekend from Friday, May 15 to Sunday, May 17 — debuting a new All-Star Village alongside updated Miles Beach and Fan Zone attractions with autograph sessions from drivers such as Kyle Larson, Denny Hamlin and Kyle Busch.

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.

Mother's Day Brunch & Bingo

11 AM – 3 PM — The Great Hall — $30-$60 — Enjoy a festive brunch complete with Bingo games, prizes, and more to celebrate Mother's Day.

Delaware Prostate Cancer Summit 2026

9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. — Blue Hen Corporate Center — Refunds available up to 7 days prior — Learn from cancer experts about treatment and diagnosis while hearing personal experiences.