Good morning, Dover.

AAA warns that deer collisions are expected to rise this fall as mating season increases deer activity near wooded and open areas around Dover—drivers face higher repair costs with Delaware claims averaging $5,620 and are urged to review insurance policies and use high beams when safe.

Two flaggers in road construction zones were hit by inattentive drivers this past week — one was seriously injured on Route 13-40 and remains hospitalized as drivers are urged to slow down.

Delmarva Power & Light filed on Aug.

28 and Chesapeake Utilities filed on Sept. 2 to raise natural gas rates that, if approved, will take effect Nov. 1 and could raise household bills by about 13% and 18.6% respectively. The Public Advocate's Office will review the filings to check if the steep new fuel charges are justified — customers may face a double-digit increase in monthly costs.

Delmarva Power and Chesapeake Utilities filed applications with the Delaware Public Service Commission to raise natural gas rates starting November 1; Delmarva seeks a 43% increase that would add about $11.33 to a typical bill and Chesapeake seeks a 30% increase that would add about $16.51. The filings reflect pass-through costs as the Public Advocate reviews the requests—customers can expect further updates soon—while details remain under review.

Senator Chris Coons co-sponsored the Freight RAILCAR Act to modernize Delaware's freight rail sector and boost jobs, economic growth, and safety.

The bill will offer tax credits that help domestic manufacturers upgrade older railcars — a move that benefits communities and the state's GDP.

On Oct. 1, Brigadier General Karen A.

Berry was sworn in as Delaware’s first secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs at the Delaware Veterans Home — the appointment marks a significant milestone for the state’s veterans program.

On October 1, retired Brig.

Gen. Karen Berry was sworn in as Delaware’s first Secretary of Veterans Affairs after lawmakers approved House Bill 1 that created a cabinet-level department. Berry will meet with local veteran groups soon to improve benefits and support—serving over 70,000 veterans—to better coordinate services statewide.

Since the government shutdown began on Oct.

1, some non-essential federal employees in Delaware are furloughed and can file unemployment claims if they meet state requirements—workers who later receive back pay must repay those benefits.

Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings joined the FTC and 19 states to stop a deceptive fundraising scheme by Kars-R-Us.com that raised over $45M but used less than 1% for breast cancer screenings—under a proposed settlement the company and its leaders will face strict fundraising limits—and a nearly $3.9M judgment.

The Delaware Department of Finance and the Division of Revenue issued a warning about text scams that falsely claim tax refunds are processed and approved, urging residents not to click links or share payment details.

Residents should verify any suspicious messages by contacting official channels directly — a measure to help prevent fraud.

Bayhealth is planning a major expansion at its Kent and Sussex campuses to increase patient space and improve facilities.

The Next Wave project will run through 2029 — phase one is valued at $250 million and final approvals from Dover and Sussex County are needed before construction can start early next year.

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.