Good morning, Dover.

Ashley Richardson fled nearly a decade of abuse in April when her partner struck her and she feared for her toddler’s safety.

She found a paid apartment and support through CHILD Inc.’s Rapid Rehousing program—funded by HUD—which now helps her rebuild her life.

A free outdoor screening of Disney’s live-action Lilo and Stitch will take place on October 3 at Kent County Rec Center in Dover—running from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Kent County Public Library will host an event titled 13 Poirots and 7 Miss Marples on October 5 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. — the event will explore Agatha Christie adaptations in film and television.

Delaware Shakespeare will perform The Two Gentlemen of Verona at Kent County Public Library in Dover on Saturday, October 11 from 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM — the live stage presentation is set to showcase classic theater for local audiences.

Delaware employers with five or more W-2 employees must register for or certify an exemption from Delaware EARNS, the state’s small business retirement savings program, by Oct.

15 to avoid penalties starting in 2026. The program, launched in July 2024, has already enrolled 7500 workers who have saved over $6 million.

Dover Air Force Base continues its operations as the federal government shutdown that began Oct 1 forces furloughs for nonessential workers.

Core services remain open for the base’s 11,000 personnel—though some administrative tasks are delayed—ensuring transport missions keep running.

DNREC held an open house Wednesday evening at Cape Henlopen State Park to gather public input on proposed fee hikes for daily entrance, annual and lifetime passes—rising costs and a 35% increase in visits have led to this review since fees have not changed since 2015.

DNREC is hosting another open house today at Killens Pond Nature Center from 5:30 to 7 p.m. for further community feedback.

Delaware's DMV increased service fees effective Oct.

1 as part of HB 164 to boost the Transportation Trust Fund so the state can maintain and improve infrastructure. The changes include a new electric vehicle registration fee based on vehicle weight and higher charges for driver's licenses, replacement cards, dealer licenses, and other services.

The Delaware Department of Labor is modernizing its services with Modernization 2.0 to clear over 6,500 unemployment claims using Google AI — adding 25 seasonal workers to speed up reviews and prepare for the Paid Family and Medical Leave program launching January 1.

This overhaul aims to help people file claims online and get quick decisions.

The Delaware Healthcare Association warned that a potential federal shutdown could disrupt key hospital care services and programs.

The group urged lawmakers in Washington, D.C. to extend crucial funding—such as enhanced premium tax credits—to prevent thousands from losing insurance coverage.

Bayhealth asked Dover City Council to approve a $249 million plan to expand its campus with a larger emergency department and a six-story addition for patient beds.

The emergency expansion may start early next year and the tower is set to open in 2029 after Dover reviews a zoning change to allow a building taller than 150 feet—Terry Murphy said the changes will ease long wait times.

Cirque Italia: Water Circus

7:30 p.m. — Dover Mall — Ticket prices vary — Experience an aquatic spectacular featuring breathtaking performances over a custom-designed water stage.

Community Yard Sale

12-4 p.m. — Sheffield Farms Neighborhood — Free entry — Discover great deals and connect with fellow neighbors in this friendly community yard sale.

Delaware Gospel Comedy Explosion

12 PM – 3 AM — Noble's Pond — $64.80 — Enjoy an uplifting Christian comedy dinner with performances by Comedian Small Fire and Host Comedian Jream.

Dover Delaware Women's Connection Program and Breakfast Buffet

9:30-11:30 a.m. — Maple Dale Country Club — $22 inclusive — Enjoy a delightful breakfast and engaging presentations at the Women's Connection gathering.

Be Great 5K

9-11 a.m. — Greater Dover Boys & Girls Club — Participation fee may apply — Celebrate fitness and community at the 12th Annual Be Great 5K Walk/Run.

Dover Market Fair 2025

8 AM – 4 PM — First State Heritage Park — Free entry — Enjoy a day of community festivities at historic Dover Green.