Good morning, Dover.

The Delaware Grocery Initiative and First State Food System Program awarded $712,500 in grants to 28 local organizations and businesses to help expand access to healthy, affordable food in areas at risk of becoming food deserts.

Projects must be completed by year end.

Delaware is gearing up for a series of free Juneteenth events honoring freedom and community—parades, history workshops, and family festivals are scheduled from June 13 to June 27 in Wilmington, Dover, Delaware City, Rehoboth Beach, Milford and Lewes.

At the Smyrna Opera House this week, 40 Delaware high school seniors were honored at the Future in Arts Celebration with cords and certificates as Education Secretary Cindy Marten stressed the importance of arts education (boosting future career programs in music, dance, theater, visual arts, film design, and education).

DSU asked a judge for more time to meet Title IX sports rules (the university still needs to add a women's varsity team by the start of the 2027-28 school year and reach a 60-40 ratio) and got preliminary approval with a final hearing set for Nov.

17.

Gov Matt Meyer announced Tuesday morning that Thomas Jefferson University will partner to open Delaware’s first four-year medical school as part of a $157 million rural health initiative + the school may open in fall with Sussex County among the potential sites.

Governor Matt Meyer announced a partnership with Thomas Jefferson University to establish Delaware’s first medical school — with pre-clinical courses in New Castle County and clinical training planned in Kent and Sussex counties — to build a homegrown pipeline of physicians.

Governor Matt Meyer announced today a partnership with Thomas Jefferson University to build Delaware's first four-year medical school at the University of Delaware in Newark; the school will launch in fall 2028 + it aims to increase local healthcare access.

Advocates from EdTrust support SB 302 (a school funding reform measure) that gives districts more flexibility to allocate funds for students from low-income backgrounds, disabilities, and language needs.

The proposal requires clearer public reporting and a multiyear investment plan to help every student succeed.

Kelly O'Hanlon from Harry's Hospitality Group said Delaware small businesses are facing rising credit card fees as summer nears & lawmakers are considering House Bill 315 to cut fees on tips, aiming to let merchants keep more of their earnings.

Jordan McClements, a local artist and writer, urged DSU president Tony Allen to secure a deal for a Hope Center-based initiative to expand beds and services for Delawareans facing overdose and homelessness in Sussex and Kent counties.

Delaware Black Music Festival 2026

10 AM – 12 PM — G & R Recreation Campground — $50 — Celebrate the vibrant sounds of Black music with top performances in a festive family-friendly atmosphere.

Firefly Music Festival

Daytime and evening — Dover Motor Speedway — Cost TBA — Experience a magical camping festival with music, food, and community spirit.

Share Your History Event

5-7 p.m. — John Bell House Interpretive Center — Free entry — Share your personal stories and connect with the rich history of Dover, Delaware.