Delaware artists invited to apply for DNREC Division of Watershed Stewardship?s rain barrel painting contest now through March 17

DNREC's Division of Watershed Stewardship is now accepting applications from Delaware artists for participation in a rain barrel painting contest aimed at educating Delawareans on the benefits of using rain barrels to reduce rainwater runoff and improve water quality.
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DNREC Division of Watershed Stewardship accepting applications for youth artist rain barrel-painting contest through March 17

DNREC's Division of Watershed Stewardship is now accepting applications from children and student groups in grades K-12 to participate in a rain barrel painting contest aimed at educating young Delawareans on the benefits of using rain barrels to reduce rainwater runoff and improve water quality.
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Governor Carney Reestablishes the Family Services Cabinet Council

Council will help coordinate crucial public and private services for Delaware families WILMINGTON, Del. – Governor John Carney signed Executive Order Five on Tuesday, reestablishing the Family Services Cabinet Council to help coordinate public and private services for Delaware families. Delaware families continue to face significant challenges – including the high cost of child care; […]
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Pinelands Nature Trail at Cape Henlopen State Park has reopened

The Pinelands Nature Trail at Cape Henlopen State Park reopened today following tree maintenance work. The trail closed Feb. 17 when Division of Parks & Recreation staff noticed that trees had fallen – or were leaning over – the trail. Parks staff removed a number of those trees within the trail to ensure public safety.
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Statement from Governor John Carney on Bomb Threats to Siegel JCC

WILMINGTON, Del. – Governor Carney released the following statement after a bomb threat to Siegel Jewish Community Center in Wilmington was cleared: “The continued bomb threats to Siegel JCC must stop. These hateful actions place a shadow over our state and country. Our law enforcement officials will continue to work diligently to find the individuals […]
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The Point at Cape Henlopen State Park to close for 2017 beachnesting season

The Point at Cape Henlopen State Park, including a stretch of ocean beach and dunes, and a half mile along the bay shoreline, will close beginning Wednesday, March 1, for the benefit of threatened and endangered beachnesters and migratory shorebirds, including red knot, piping plovers, oystercatchers, least terns and other species.
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DPH Closes Illegal Home Tattoo Operation in Magnolia

The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) on February 23, 2017, ordered a 38-year-old Magnolia man to cease tattooing activities in his home, in violation of Title 16 of the Delaware Code. DPH Health Systems Protection staff issued a Cease and Desist Order to William Smiley of 60 Grays Lane in Magnolia for conducting tattooing activities out of his residence without a required body art establishment permit. In addition to operating without a permit and being entirely unregulated, DPH staff were unable to confirm proper sanitary precautions were used.
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Delaware Libraries, UD Disaster Research Center Present Disaster Planning Summit

The Disaster Research Center at the University of Delaware, the National Network of Libraries of Medicine, and the Delaware Division of Libraries are sponsoring an all-day summit "Disaster Recovery for Delaware" on Tuesday, February 28.
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DNREC Division of Fish & Wildlife announces 2016/17 hunting photo contest winners

DNREC's Division of Fish & Wildlife today announced the winning entries in the 2016/17 Delaware Hunting Photo Contest. First place was awarded to Bo Wilkinson of Dagsboro for "Couples Retreat," featuring his friend Morgan Anton after a successful waterfowl hunt on the Indian River.
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Media Advisory: 2017 Delaware Poetry Out Loud State Finals

WHAT: Thirteen Delaware high school students will participate in the state finals for Poetry Out Loud: National Recitation Contest at the Smyrna Opera House. The winner of this competition will represent Delaware and advance to the National Finals in Washington, DC on April 25-26, 2017, where $50,000 in awards and school stipends will be distributed. This […]
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Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police Blotter: Feb. 13-19

To achieve public compliance through education and enforcement actions that help conserve Delaware's fish and wildlife resources and ensure safe boating and public safety, Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police officers between Feb. 13-19 made 1,840 contacts with anglers, hunters, boaters and the general public, including 18 vessel boardings for boating safety, hunting and fishing regulation compliance checks, issuing 10 citations.
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Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs to hold public meetings seeking input for Delaware?s 2018?2022 state historic preservation plan

Five meetings to be held at locations across the state in March 2017.
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More Than 30 Years in Prison for Man With Multiple Gun Charges and Resisting Police

Gang Members, Burglar, Child Sex Abuser, Robber Also Sentenced To Jail   Ronald Jackson, 39, of New Castle was sentenced following a trial in which he was convicted of a host of weapons related offenses. Deputy Attorneys General Michael DegliObizzi and Nichole Warner convicted Jackson at trial of Aggravated Menacing, 2 counts of Possession of […]
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2017 DNREC Division of Fish & Wildlife calendars available at reduced price

Remaining copies of the 2017 Division of Fish & Wildlife calendar have been marked down to $3 – $4 by mail, which includes shipping and handling – while supplies last.
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Delaware Holds Successful Bond Sale

Finance Secretary Rick Geisenberger announced today that Delaware successfully sold $225 million in triple-A-rated general obligation bonds in Thursday's competitive bond sale.
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New website launched to help Delawareans locate parks

In an effort to encourage more children and their families to enjoy the outdoors and outdoor-related activity year-round, Delaware State Parks has launched "Play Outside," a new website for Delaware residents and visitors that provides convenient and detailed information about public parks and facilities in Delaware.
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DPH Announces Two More Flu-Related Deaths, Urges Delawareans To Increase Prevention Measures

Influenza continues to significantly impact Delaware for the 216-2017 flu season. The Division of Public Health (DPH) announced today the fourth and fifth flu-related fatalities in Delaware for the current season, as well as a continued sharp increase in cases for those ages 0 – 24. Both of the deceased individuals were elderly, and had multiple underlying health conditions in addition to being infected with influenza. The first week of February, an 86-year-old Kent County man, residing in a nursing home, passed away after being transported to the hospital. Last week, a 90-year-old New Castle County man who lived at home passed away. He had also been transported to the hospital as a result of his illness. Both men were infected with Influenza A.
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Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs to sponsor 14 free programs during March 2017

Highlights include events celebrating National Women's History Month and National Harriet Tubman Day.
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Search Begins for New Delaware Captive Insurance Bureau Director

The Delaware Department of Insurance has commenced a nationwide search for a new director for its Bureau of Captive Insurance & Financial Products.
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Delaware Forestry Association holds annual meeting March 23 in Bridgeville; offers $1,000 forestry scholarship

Celebrating its 35th anniversary, the Delaware Forestry Association (DFA) will present its 2017 "Tree Farmer of the Year" award on Thursday, March 23 at its annual banquet and meeting at the Bridgeville Fire Hall, 311 Market St, Bridgeville, DE 19933, (302) 337-7272. Tickets are $27 for adults and free for children under 12. Reservations are kindly requested by March 17. Forms are available at delawareforest.com
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DHSS? Division for the Visually Impaired Helps with Training for Wilmington Police Department

WILMINGTON (Feb. 22, 2017) The Delaware Division for the Visually Impaired (DVI) partnered with the Wilmington Police Department earlier this month to provide visual impairment sensitivity training for almost 65 police officers at the Walnut Street precinct. With the success of the training, conducted by DVI certified orientation & mobility therapists Heather Dougherty and Maria […]
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?Rose Color to Gold to Glowing Red: Orville and Ethel Peets in Paris 1913-1914?

New exhibit now open at Lewes, Del.'s Zwaanendael Museum.
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DHSS Library Selected to Host Traveling Exhibition about Native Concepts of Health and Illness

NEW CASTLE (Feb. 17, 2017) – The Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) Library has been selected in a competitive application process to host "Native Voices: Native Peoples' Concepts of Health and Illness," a traveling exhibition to U.S. libraries. The DHSS Library will host the exhibition between March 1 and April 12, 2017. "Native […]
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Governor Carney Nominates Commissioner Mary S. Much as Family Court Judge

Commissioner Much previously served in the Office of Disciplinary Council WILMINGTON, Del. – Governor John Carney on Friday announced the nomination of Family Court Commissioner Mary S. Much to serve as a Family Court Judge in New Castle County. Governor Carney's nomination must be confirmed by the Delaware Senate. "Commissioner Much is well-prepared to serve […]
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Pinelands Nature Trail at Cape Henlopen State Park closed temporarily for tree maintenance work

LEWES – The Pinelands Nature Trail at Cape Henlopen State Park closed today for arbor maintenance work and will reopen after Division of Parks & Recreation staff have removed a number of trees within the trail for safety purposes.
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Murder, Gang, Gun, Robbery Charges Result In Guilty Pleas and Verdicts

A 33-year-old Wilmington man will spend the rest of his life in prison, after being convicted by a Superior Court jury of Murder First Degree, Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony, and Conspiracy First Degree for a 2014 shooting in Wilmington's Hedgeville neighborhood. Deputy Attorneys General A.J. Roop and Karin Volker […]
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Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police Blotter: Feb. 6-12

To achieve public compliance through education and enforcement actions that help conserve Delaware's fish and wildlife resources and ensure safe boating and public safety, Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police officers between Feb. 6-12 made 1,311 contacts with anglers, hunters, boaters and the general public, including 11 vessel boardings for boating safety, hunting and fishing regulation compliance checks, issuing 46 citations.
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DPH Shares ?Preparedness Buddy? Brochure To Help Delawareans Prepare For Emergencies

Winter weather can bring high winds, snow, ice, and extremely cold temperatures. Responding to those and other potential hazards — such as power outages, fires, floods, and disease outbreaks — is less stressful when emergency plans are in place. This is particularly true for adults and children with disabilities, seniors, and those with temporary or chronic health conditions, language barriers or any other issue that might make mobility difficult in an emergency. That's why the Division of Public Health (DPH) is encouraging use of the Office of Preparedness' "Preparedness Buddy Brochure."
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Governor Carney Creates Government Efficiency and Accountability Review Board

Governor signs Executive Order #4 establishing the GEAR Board to identify efficiencies DOVER, Del. – Governor John Carney signed Executive Order Four on Thursday, establishing the Government Efficiency and Accountability Review Board (GEAR) to identify, on an ongoing basis, opportunities for cost savings in state government. Members of the board are listed in the text […]
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Delaware to offer produce safety training

Fruit and vegetable growers who want to learn about produce safety, Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), developing food safety plans and the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule are encouraged to attend several upcoming workshops. On March 16 and 17, the "Delaware FSMA Produce Safety Alliance Training, Produce Food Safety Updates, and Food Safety Plan Writing Workshop" will be held at the Delaware State Fairgrounds in Harrington. The workshop will be from 8 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day. Lunch will be provided and registration is free, courtesy of the USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant and the Delaware Department of Agriculture.
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Division of Parks & Recreation closes portion of Assawoman Canal Trail until early spring during DNREC canal maintenance dredging project

LEWES – Due to the Assawoman Canal maintenance dredging project currently under way by DNREC's Division of Watershed Stewardship, a portion of the Division of Parks & Recreation's adjacent Assawoman Canal Trail has been closed until early spring.
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New Business Tax Return Due Dates for Partnerships and Corporations

The Delaware Division of Revenue would like to inform local business regarding the following changes to due dates for business partnerships and corporations.
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Governor Carney Announces Selections to Lead Independent Review of Hostage Incident at James T. Vaughn Correctional Center

Governor signs order naming Justice Ridgely and Judge Chapman to lead review WILMINGTON, Del. – Governor John Carney signed Executive Order Two on Tuesday, appointing retired Delaware Supreme Court Justice Henry duPont Ridgely and retired Family Court Judge William L. Chapman, Jr. to lead the independent review into the February 1 hostage incident at James […]
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Thirteen High School Students to Compete in 2017 Delaware Poetry Out Loud State Finals

The annual poetry recitation finals will be held at the Smyrna Opera House on Tuesday, February 28 at 7 p.m. The event is free and the public is welcome to attend. Scott F. Mason, president of Chapel Street Players and award-winning actor, playwright, and director will serve as the Master of Ceremonies and introduce the […]
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Surge in Fentanyl-Related Overdoses Pushes State?s Fatal Overdose Total Past 300 for 2016

NEWS FROM THE DELAWARE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES AND THE DELAWARE DEPARTMENT OF SAFETY AND HOMELAND SECURITY   Surge in Fentanyl-Related Overdoses Pushes State's Fatal Overdose Total Past 300 for 2016; Health and Law Enforcement Officials Urge Delawareans Struggling with Addiction to Seek Treatment NEW CASTLE (Feb. 13, 2017) – An alarming increase […]
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Fiscal Responsibility Earns Delaware a Universal Triple-A Credit Rating

Rating agencies express confidence in Delaware's financial management WILMINGTON, Del. – The three major rating agencies have once again awarded Delaware a Triple-A credit rating, the highest mark that a state can achieve. Delaware has earned the Triple-A rating for 17 years, and the rating agencies continue to express confidence in Delaware's strong financial management […]
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First Flu-Related Death In Sussex County Senior; Cases Among Children And Youth Surging

As influenza continues to spread across Delaware, the Division of Public Health (DPH) announces the first Sussex County flu-related death for the 2016-2017 season. The deceased was a 74-year-old female who was a resident at a long-term care facility. The Delaware Public Health Laboratory confirmed that she had been diagnosed with Influenza A and had multiple underlying health conditions. Her death brings the state total this flu season to three. The three people who died all had underlying health conditions, in addition to being ill with the flu.
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Delaware farmers? markets sales hit $2.9 million

Photos are available for media use on Flickr. DOVER — Delawareans still value local foods and farm-fresh products as demonstrated by a strong 2016 farmers’ market season with over $2.9 million dollars in direct sales, the Delaware Department of Agriculture announced today. "Delaware's farmers' markets play an important role in providing delicious fruits, vegetables, and […]
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Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police Blotter: Jan. 30-Feb. 5

DOVER (Feb. 10, 2017) – To achieve public compliance through education and enforcement actions that help conserve Delaware's fish and wildlife resources and ensure safe boating and public safety, Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police officers between Jan. 30-Feb. 5 made 1014 contacts with anglers, hunters, boaters and the general public.
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Two Teen Gang Members Sentenced to Prison Time

Man pleads to 2001 Wilmington barbershop murder; other defendants face weapons, fraud, and theft charges. Deputy Attorney General Mark Denney secured a guilty plea and jail time for gang related charges from a 16-year-old who was prosecuted as an adult, and is now prohibited from owning or possessing a handgun for the rest of his […]
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Harrington man arrested by F&W Natural Resources Police for multiple deer hunting and firearm violations

DOVER – Following an investigation, DNREC Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police arrested a Harrington man Feb. 6 for deer hunting violations and multiple charges related to possession of firearms and ammunition by a person prohibited.
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DNREC extends public comment period through March 3 on Blessings Greenhouse and Compost Milford facility?s Non-Hazardous Liquid Waste Transporters permit application

DOVER – Due to the volume of requests and interest expressed at a Jan. 25 public hearing regarding an application by Blessings Greenhouses and Compost's Milford facility for a Non-Hazardous Liquid Waste Transporters Permit, DNREC Hearing Officer Lisa Vest announced that the record will remain open through March 3 to allow more time for concerned groups and individuals to submit additional public comment.
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Delaware Forest Service offers volunteer fire grants

The Delaware Forest Service (DFS) is offering up to $4,500 in grants to help fire companies in the First State improve their readiness and ability to fight wildfires. The deadline is May 1 and the form is available on-line. Funded by the U.S. Forest Service, the Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) program has provided more than 120 grants worth almost $300,000 to Delaware volunteer fire companies over the past 10 years. All grants require a 50-50 cost-share match and priority will be given to applicants that have not received funding in the past three years.
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New grants available from DNREC?s Division of Energy & Climate to support strong, sustainable communities

Municipalities, county governments and partners invited to apply for new Sustainable Communities Planning Grants DOVER – DNREC's Division of Energy & Climate invites municipalities, county governments and their academic and non-profit partners to apply for the new Sustainable Communities Planning Grants now available. These competitive grants support planning and assessment projects that improve a community's […]
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Delaware Public Archives Celebrates African American History Month

The Delaware Public Archives will celebrate African-American History Month with guests Governor John Carney and Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester on Monday, February 13.
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Public input sought by Delaware Open Space Council regarding Open Space Program Plan

DOVER – Public workshops will be held this month in all three Delaware counties for gathering comment about the Open Space Program Plan following amendments made to the state's Land Protection Act last year and public concern about certain components of the Open Space Program.
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Governor Carney?s Statement on the Retirement of Supreme Court Justice Randy J. Holland

Holland is the longest serving Justice in Delaware history WILMINGTON, Del. – Governor John Carney received formal notice on Thursday that the Honorable Justice Randy J. Holland will retire from the Delaware Supreme Court at the end of March. Governor Carney issued the following statement: “Justice Holland has been a model jurist and a steady […]
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DelDOT Status Report for Thursday Morning

Governor Carney shares DelDOT's winter travel information for February 9, 2017 Dover, Del. – Governor John Carney urges all Delawareans to travel with caution and to read important information from DelDOT regarding today's winter weather event: As rain is just now beginning to change to snow in parts of New Castle County, officials from the Delaware […]
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Governor Carney Announces Economic Development Working Group Members

Membership guidelines outlined in executive order   WILMINGTON, Del. – Governor John Carney announced Wednesday the members of the Economic Development Working Group who will develop recommendations for implementing a public-private partnership at the Delaware Economic Development Office. The working group will explore how state government can work with the private sector to improve economic development […]
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DNREC?s 2017 Delaware Fishing Guide and fishing rulers now available

The Division of Fish & Wildlife's 2017 Delaware Fishing Guide and fishing rulers have arrived, with distribution to fishing license agents throughout the state, including sporting goods, bait & tackle and hardware stores.
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DNREC now accepting grant proposals for community water quality improvement projects

DOVER – DNREC's Division of Watershed Stewardship is now accepting project proposals for matching grants for community water quality improvement projects. Delaware non-profit organizations, conservation districts, community organizations and homeowner's associations are eligible to apply. Proposals must be received by 4:30 p.m. March 15, 2017.
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Delaware Toxics Release Inventory Report for 2015 shows overall progress in lowering state?s waste releases

DOVER – The annual Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) data report from Delaware's industrial facilities as compiled by DNREC's Emergency Prevention and Response Section show continued progress by the state in reducing toxic releases into the environment, with an overall decrease in toxic waste of 14 percent from 2015 statistics when compared to 2014 figures. The latest report also indicates that there's still work to be done, however: While TRI data recorded a decrease in onsite releases to air, onsite releases to both water and land increased – all as compared to the state's TRI figures for 2014, the most recent year for DNREC's compiling the data.
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Governor Carney Announces Independent Review of Incident at James T. Vaughn Correctional Center

Governor will announce selection to lead review by February 15 WILMINGTON, Del. – Governor John Carney announced on Tuesday that he will initiate an independent review of the hostage incident at James T. Vaughn Correctional Center last week that led to the death of a 16-year correctional officer, Lt. Steven Floyd. Governor Carney will announce […]
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Four Delaware Leaders to be Honored at 36th Annual Hall of Fame of Delaware Women Ceremony

The Delaware Commission for Women will add four outstanding female leaders to the Hall of Fame of Delaware Women at its annual induction ceremony on March 22. This year's nominees have each made substantial and meaningful contributions throughout their careers to improve the lives of countless Delawareans.
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Dr. Kara Odom Walker Sworn in as New DHSS Cabinet Secretary

NEWS FROM THE DELAWARE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES   Dr. Kara Odom Walker Sworn in as New DHSS Cabinet Secretary NEW CASTLE (Feb. 6, 2017) – With Gov. John Carney and the leadership team of the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) looking on, Dr. Kara Odom Walker was sworn as DHSS […]
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Delaware Water Infrastructure Advisory Council to meet Wednesday, Feb. 15 in Dover

DOVER – The Delaware Water Infrastructure Advisory Council (WIAC) will meet Wednesday, Feb. 15 at 9 a.m. in Conference Room 220, Kent County Administrative Complex, 555 S. Bay Road, Dover, DE 19901.
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Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police Blotter: Jan. 23-29

To achieve public compliance through education and enforcement actions that help conserve Delaware's fish and wildlife resources and ensure safe boating and public safety, Fish & Wildlife Natural Resources Police officers between Jan. 23-29 made 1173 contacts with anglers, hunters, boaters and the general public, including 40 vessel boardings for boating safety, hunting and fishing regulation compliance checks, issuing 27 citations.
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Attorney General Warns Delawareans About Bogus Online Lead Generators

Attorney General Matt Denn's office warns Delawareans to be wary of online lead generators or list services that claim to provide potential client leads to certain professionals, particularly real estate agents. The Consumer Protection Unit of the Delaware Department of Justice has investigated complaints about lead generators or list services that claim to provide advanced […]
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DNREC reminds hunters to take advantage of Snow Goose Conservation Order starting Feb. 6

DNREC's Division of Fish & Wildlife is again implementing a federal Snow Goose Conservation Order, an Atlantic Flyway-wide effort to use hunting as a management tool to reduce and stabilize the population of greater snow geese. The 2017 Conservation Order to harvest snow geese will open Monday, Feb. 6 and run through Friday, Feb. 10, then will reopen Monday, Feb. 13 and run through Friday, April 7.
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DNREC revises proposed amendments to Aboveground Storage Tank Regulations and reopens public comment period

DOVER – DNREC's Division of Waste & Hazardous Substances has reopened the public comment period and revised proposed amendments to Delaware's Regulations Governing Aboveground Storage Tanks, as set forth in 7 DE Admin. Code 1352. The 30-day public comment period regarding the revised proposed amendments will be from Feb. 1 through DNREC close of business March 3.
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Governor Carney Orders Flags at Half-Staff for Fallen Correctional Sergeant Steven Floyd

Governor Carney today ordered both the U.S. and State flags to be flown at half-staff in memory of fallen Correctional Sergeant Steven Floyd. Sergeant Floyd died in the line of duty valiantly protecting the community and fellow Delawareans during a prison disturbance at the James T. Vaughn Correctional Center in Smyrna. Flags are to remain […]
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Statement from Governor Carney on Fallen Correctional Officer

Governor Carney released the following statement today on the fallen correctional officer from James T. Vaughn Correctional Center. “I’m praying hard for the fallen officer’s family. This serves as a tragic reminder that members of law enforcement risk their lives every day on behalf of the people of Delaware. We will stand by the fallen […]
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Delaware Department Of Justice Statement On Litigation Over President?s Executive Order On Travel Into The United States

The State of Washington, through its Attorney General and Governor, has filed a federal lawsuit challenging the Executive Order issued by the President imposing new restrictions on travel to the United States. The lawsuit seeks to enjoin and invalidate certain provisions of the order that violate either federal law or the United States Constitution. Attorney […]
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New Protections for Safe Prescribing of Opiates

DOVER – Continuing efforts to curb the abuse of opiate pain medication in Delaware, the state agency charged with regulating medical practice and drug prescription recently unveiled rules that will help doctors and pharmacists more closely monitor and control the use of opiates by patients under their care. The new requirements contain expanded procedures related […]
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