Good morning, Dover.

The Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce held its annual Awards for Excellence Celebration last Thursday at Bally’s Dover Casino Resort, honoring Delaware Hospice and La Baguette French Bakery as top winners in a sold-out event attended by over 300 local business leaders.

Delmarva Christian High School graduate Lily Divine Jewell was named the 2026 Captain William O.

Murray Scholarship recipient on June 18 by the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce in Georgetown, recognizing her strong community service record.

Juneteenth remained a federal holiday marking the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, but policy shifts meant that free national park entry was moved to other dates while Delaware state workers received a paid day off.

Delaware is now offering the SUN Bucks program to help families access $120 per child in grocery benefits during summer break.

The program—administered by Health and Social Services—will support about 98,000 children, so families should update their school benefits contact info to avoid delays.

Dr. Steven Angelo, chief medical officer for UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare + Retirement of Delaware, advises seniors to support brain health by staying connected, checking hearing, managing heart health, and keeping physically + mentally active during Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month.

Veteran advocate Cristina Johnson urges firefighters to join the National Firefighter Registry for Cancer, designed by the CDC to track long-term toxic exposures and improve safety measures.

Launched in 2023, the program has enrolled over 50,800 firefighters nationwide + 150 locally, and officials are calling for more participation.

Team USA won 2-0 against Australia in a World Cup match on Friday near the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, as Rocking the Docks hosted a free watch party for fans.

The energized crowd cheered the win (U-S-A) and boosted hopes for a bright future for the team.

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.

Dover Hot Air Balloon Festival

5-11 p.m. — Dover International Speedway — $35 for balloon rides — Experience colorful hot air balloons, live music, and a night finale of glow and lasers.