Good morning, Wilmington.

Delaware State University maintained its high standing by ranking fifth among public historically Black colleges and universities and tenth overall—marking its seventh consecutive year in the top tier—while it also recently opened a new $19 million agricultural hub and an Early Childhood Innovation Center with record enrollment growth this year.

The Division of Motor Vehicles announced fee increases that took effect Oct 1 as part of HB 164 to boost the Transportation Trust Fund—changes include a new annual electric vehicle registration fee based on vehicle weight and higher charges for driver’s and dealer licenses.

Officials said the funds will be used for infrastructure work.

A government shutdown started on Oct.

1 when federal budget talks stalled, and Delaware student loan borrowers must still pay their loans despite most nonessential education staff being furloughed—ongoing funding like Pell Grants and Direct Loans continues to be distributed.

Today, retired Brigadier General Karen Berry was sworn in as Delaware’s first Cabinet-level Secretary of Veterans Affairs at the Delaware Veterans Home in Milford—after the State Senate confirmed her nomination on September 22.

The new department will centralize services for over 70,000 veterans and work under the Department of State until it becomes an independent agency by July 1.

After Mayor Carney’s Homelessness Task Force released its report on Sept.

30, housing advocates said the plan focused on controlling homelessness—rather than offering real help. The group, which includes local nonprofits, urged the city to invest in more shelter access, affordable housing and prevention measures—calling for stronger local action.

State lawmakers held the first of four hearings at Legislative Hall in Dover to ask questions about last year's court-ordered property reassessment that spiked tax bills for many Delawareans—county and city officials questioned Tyler Technologies’ methods and noted differences between residential and non-residential properties, and a second hearing is set for October 7th.

The U.S. government shutdown began on Oct.

1 and has led to furloughs for nonessential workers and delays in programs like SNAP and WIC in Delaware—local agencies are working to maintain essential services. If the shutdown continues, travel, health benefits, and state-funded programs may face further delays and reduced support.

Beebe Healthcare will launch a new patient portal system—MyChart via Epic systems—on Nov.

1 that will create a single, connected health record for patients across more than 50 locations.

University of Delaware biomedical engineer Jason Gleghorn is developing tiny organ-on-a-chip models—devices as small as two postage stamps—that offer a faster, low-cost way to study disease and design new drug treatments.

As an Innovation Ambassador, he will share his work with researchers to improve women’s health and other medical fields.

Christiana Care broke ground on an 87,000 square foot Middletown facility that will add specialty services including women’s health, behavioral health, oncology, cardiovascular care, pediatrics, neurology, imaging and lab testing—officials said its first patient is expected in the first or second quarter of 2027—following community input.

Bivouac Pizza was voted Delaware’s best food truck in the Food Truck Frenzy contest—beating 39 competitors.

Founders Steve Schultz and Paul Egnor use a wood-burning oven to cook over 30 pizzas from fresh local ingredients—and they will serve these pies at events later this month.

Sheng Wang Live Comedy Show

8-11 p.m. — The Playhouse on Rodney Square — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of laughter with comedian Sheng Wang, known for his Netflix special 'Sweet & Juicy'.

Kumail Nanjiani Live

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Bob Carpenter Center — Cost Info TBA — Enjoy a night of sharp wit and humor from the star of Silicon Valley as he reflects on his life experiences.

Garden Bros Nuclear Circus

1-5 p.m. — Delaware Park Casino — Tickets starting at $76 — Experience an unforgettable circus show featuring thrilling performances.

DSU Alumni Homecoming 2025

8 PM-2 AM — The Queen — Ticket required — Celebrate the camaraderie of DSU alumni at a vibrant homecoming event.

Stephen Lynch Comedy Show

8 PM – 12 AM — The Queen — $60+ — Enjoy a night of laughs with comedian Stephen Lynch in Wilmington's iconic venue.

Boo at the Zoo

10 a.m.–3 p.m. — Brandywine Zoo — Free entry — Wear costumes and enjoy treats and festive activities while visiting the zoo animals.

Halloween Ghost Ship

12-4 p.m. — Kalmar Nyckel Foundation — Free admission — Experience spooky maritime fun with ghost ship tours, pumpkin painting, and costume festivities for the whole family.

Hagley Craft Fair

10 AM – 4 PM — Hagley Museum — Entry fee may apply — Discover unique crafts and gourmet delights by talented artisans from the Mid-Atlantic area.

Amenazzy Concert

8:30 PM — El Maguey — Check event page for ticket prices — Experience the upbeat sounds of Amenazzy in a cozy venue.

Energize Delaware Community Resource Fair

11 AM – 3 PM — Route 9 Library & Innovation Center — Free entry — Connect with local organizations and discover community resources.