AGP Executive Report

Cape Henlopen State Park: Friends of Cape Henlopen State Park secured a $12,460 AARP Community Challenge grant for an ADA-accessible hydration station at Deauville Beach, with free water bottle refills (plus a pet water feature) near the beach entrance, pickleball/tennis courts, and walking/cycling routes. Outdoor Adventures: DNREC launched “Paddle Quest,” a statewide paddling challenge tied to the 75th anniversary of Delaware State Parks, and added self-service kayak rentals at Delaware Seashore State Park; participants can visit qualifying parks and submit a PFD photo by Sept. 1 for prizes. Fall Tourism Push: Southern Delaware Tourism is teaming up with county partners on “Arts Around Our Towns” and “Fall for History” (September–November) to encourage longer fall weekend stays. Health & Safety: Delaware confirmed its first cyclosporiasis case as Cyclospora spreads nationally; Beebe Healthcare shared symptoms and food-safety guidance. Beach Watch: Jellyfish stings are rising at Delaware beaches, with lifeguards noting they’re arriving earlier than usual. Road/Travel Planning: DelDOT plans a near-two-week closure of part of Patriots Way in Millsboro (Aug. 10–21) for reconstruction tied to the new Delaware State Police Troop 4 barracks entrance. Local Crash Update: Delaware State Police identified a 27-year-old Dover man killed in a July 26 single-vehicle crash on Bay Road; the investigation is ongoing.

Wildlife & Nature: Red knots are making a strong spring return to Delaware’s Bayshore, with counts at Mispillion Harbor near Slaughter Beach climbing to about 3,000 and birds staying in Delaware longer than in recent years. Tourism & Community Events: The Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is rolling out free August programs across Delaware, including a “Tory Raid” cold-case mystery at John Dickinson Plantation and fiber guild demonstrations in Dover. Public Health & Travel Planning: Delaware County is launching a back-to-school mobile vaccination campaign as measles cases surge in Pennsylvania, with families urged to get up to date before school. Local Quality-of-Life for Visitors: Rehoboth Beach’s Grove Park farmer’s market may move next year after tree-health concerns tied to soil and root compaction from parking and foot traffic. Safety on the Roads: Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal single-vehicle crash on Bay Road near Dover Air Force Base that closed the roadway for hours. Out-of-State Aid: The Delaware Forest Service is sending crews to help fight Minnesota wildfires, including a 17-person suppression module.

Wildlife & Beaches: Delaware Shorebird Project counts show red knot numbers rising on Delaware Bay beaches, with Mispillion Harbor topping 1,000 birds and peaking around 3,000 during spring migration stopovers. Public Health: Delaware declared a measles outbreak in Kent County after four unvaccinated adult men were confirmed, triggering contact tracing and exposure notifications. Outdoor/Travel Safety: Georgia DOT is joining a multistate “Check Your Height, Know It’s Right” campaign to prevent bridge strikes—another reminder for truckers and travelers heading to Delaware-area roads. Roads & Commuting: Delaware State Police report a fatal single-vehicle crash on Route 1 near Dover Air Force Base; Bay Road was closed about four hours. Local Culture: Dewey Beach’s Bottle & Cork marks its 90th anniversary, keeping live music at the center of the summer scene. Family Travel Notes: Delaware’s cyclosporiasis case count is rising nationally, and Beebe Healthcare highlights food-safety steps as the state confirms its first case.

Dover Military Ceremony: President Trump honored four U.S. service members during a dignified transfer at Dover Air Force Base, with Delaware Sen. Chris Coons among those attending. Road Safety (Seaford): Delaware State Police identified 73-year-old Michael Barrett as the bicyclist killed in a Seaford hit-and-run; investigators say the suspect may have passenger-side damage near the turn signal. Local Health & Community: Novus Health Services opened in Milton, offering adult sexual health care and HIV/STD services, plus medication-based support for alcohol or drug dependency. Tourism & Real Estate: Coldwell Banker Premier named longtime Realtor Carol Barnhardt as sales manager for its Rehoboth Beach, Lewes and Milford offices. Beach Season Fun: Rehoboth’s Lifeguard Olympics drew regional teams for speed and lifesaving skills, while Franklin Square in Philadelphia marked 20 years since its revitalization—an easy reminder for Delaware-area visitors planning a quick day trip. Travel Watch (Food Safety): Cyclospora outbreaks are rising nationwide, and officials still can’t pinpoint how contamination enters the food supply.

Beach & family fun: Franklin Square in Philadelphia marked 20 years since its revitalization, a reminder of how public spaces can become real vacation magnets for families. New in Delaware: Novus Health Services opened in Milton, offering adult sexual health care and judgment-free support for HIV/STD testing and treatment plus medication-based help for alcohol or drug dependency. Safety on the shore: Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal Seaford hit-and-run that killed a 73-year-old bicyclist; the suspect vehicle may have passenger-side damage near the turn signal. Summer planning: Rehoboth Beach lifeguards competed in the annual Lifeguard Olympics, showcasing the skills that keep beach visitors safe. Weather check: Delaware’s weekend looks sunny with a moderate rip-current risk at the beaches, plus storms possible later in the week. Health watch: Delaware declared a measles outbreak after cases rose, with tracking and vaccination outreach underway.

Beach Safety & Lifeguards: Delaware State Beach Patrol topped the 49th annual Lifeguard Olympics in Rehoboth Beach, winning the overall title with 116 points. New Clinic in Milton: Novus Health Services opened at 616 Mulberry St., offering adult sexual health care, HIV/STD services, hepatitis-C testing, and medication-based support for alcohol/drug dependency. Road Safety Alert: Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal Seaford hit-and-run where a 73-year-old bicyclist died after being struck on Woodpecker Road; the suspect vehicle may have passenger-side damage. Local Travel & Community: Franklin Square in Philadelphia marked 20 years since its revitalization into a family-friendly destination—an easy add-on for Delaware-area visitors heading to Philly. Outdoor & Family Fun: Wyandot Lake Park’s history photo gallery highlights the Delaware County area’s long-running water-park legacy. Travel Planning Note: A weekend weather update calls for sunny, low-humidity beach conditions with a moderate rip-current risk.

Delaware State Fair Buzz: Franklin Square in Philly marked 20 years since its revitalization—an easy reminder that the region’s family-friendly attractions keep evolving. Beach Life & Safety: Rehoboth Beach lifeguards squared off in the annual Lifeguard Olympics, while the shore also faced a moderate rip-current risk this weekend. Local Travel Disruptions: Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal Seaford hit-and-run that shut down Woodpecker Road for hours—expect delays and use caution if you’re driving nearby. Summer Planning: Delaware’s fishing report points to solid spot and croaker action around Broadkill Beach and Cape Henlopen’s pier. Health Watch for Visitors: Delaware confirmed measles cases again, and health officials are urging vaccination—important for travelers with kids or anyone planning crowded indoor stops. Foodie Angle: A roundup of “signature foods” and a best-budget-airlines list are fueling more trip planning around what to eat and where to fly.

Measles Watch: Delaware declared a measles outbreak after new cases, with Pennsylvania reporting a surge that includes dozens of cases in the Philadelphia region—good news for travelers only if you’re up to date on vaccines before visiting family or crowded events. Beach Safety & Local Governance: Rehoboth Beach officials are set to receive an independent report on how the city handled a Memorial Day “beach takeover,” with a special commissioner meeting scheduled July 30. Tourism & Community Events: The Delaware Whiskey Festival returns to Wilmington July 25 with tastings, a VIP session, and a cocktail competition—plus a reminder that summer weekends in Delaware are packed with food-and-drink stops. Coastal Health Research: A new global database is improving monitoring of coastal microbial health risks, a timely read for anyone planning beach time and water activities. Business & Travel Infrastructure: Delaware’s Division of Small Business launched an Office of Small Business Access to help entrepreneurs with licensing and permitting—aimed at smoothing the path for new local services.

Delaware Travel & Tourism: Beach & boardwalk nostalgia: A 1960s postcard spotlights Rehoboth Beach’s “never-ending” boardwalk summer vibe, a reminder of why visitors keep coming back. Cape Region culture: The Cape Current highlights a growing wine scene, plus a mobile bookstore—Salty Girl Books—bringing beach-friendly reading to coastal stops. Outdoor plans: A Delaware River island tour idea points travelers to 330 miles of intriguing islands, forts, and wildlife spots. Family-friendly weekend picks: Delmarva event roundup includes the Delaware State Fair in Harrington, a Chesapeake Bay Paddle fundraiser, and Dewey Beach beach volleyball. Local travel logistics: Railroad work will close Steiner Road Crossing near Georgetown for nearly three weeks starting July 31, with detours in place. Health & safety: Delaware confirmed measles cases for the first time in a decade, with public health urging vaccination. Weather: Cooler, drier July conditions are set to continue into the weekend, with more activity possible early next week.

Severe Weather & Waterspouts: A wild weather week peaked July 21 with a waterspout in Delaware Bay off Roosevelt Inlet, plus lightning and storm damage across Sussex County. Summer Beach Sweepstakes: The Cape Current launched its “Last Blast of Summer” contest, with a chance to win $5,000 and a Rehoboth Beach Staybridge Suites getaway. Road & Travel Disruption: DelDOT says railroad work will close Steiner Road Crossing near Georgetown for nearly three weeks starting July 31, with detours and an Aug. 18 reopening target. Cycling Safety: Bethany Beach police handed out free bike lights and safety gear, and Millville is planning a “Ready, Set, Ride” bike safety event Aug. 5. Beach Events: Dewey Beach hosts the Bump, Set, Light volleyball tournament July 26 to support youth mental health. Health Alert: Delaware confirmed a fifth measles case and is urging travelers to check MMR vaccination status. Local Tourism Spotlight: A new Rehoboth Beach boardwalk condo at The Henlopen just sold, highlighting ongoing demand for prime beach stays. Delaware Bay Infrastructure: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced spring 2027 repairs to the Indian River Inlet north jetty to stabilize the navigation channel.

Dover Military Return: President Trump attended a dignified transfer at Dover Air Force Base for four U.S. service members killed in the Middle East, then met privately with families—another somber stop in the ongoing Iran conflict. Public Health Alert: Delaware’s Division of Public Health confirmed four measles cases in Kent County men, meeting outbreak criteria, and urged residents to check MMR vaccination status via DelVAX. Coastal Travel & Safety: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says repairs to the Indian River Inlet north jetty are planned for spring 2027 to stabilize the navigation channel—good news for boaters and beach-area access. Family-Friendly Events: Millville will host a free “Ready, Set, Ride” bicycle safety event Aug. 5 with helmets and lights while supplies last. Local Spotlight: Indian River High School alum Patrick Callow won bronze at the USA Special Olympics Games, bringing pride to Ocean View and the Delaware sports community.

Dover Honors Fallen Troops: President Trump attended a dignified transfer at Dover Air Force Base for four service members killed in the Middle East, including Pvt. Isabella Gonzales of Carrollton, Texas, with families meeting the president before flag-draped remains were carried off the aircraft. Delaware Health Alert: Delaware Public Health reported two more measles cases, bringing the state’s total to four—unvaccinated adult males in Kent County—with contact tracing underway and guidance for anyone exposed. Coastal Wildlife Watch: The MERR Institute is tracking a rare leucistic (albino-leaning) juvenile dolphin spotted from Bethany and Lewes up toward the Virginia Eastern Shore, asking boaters to keep distance. Park Upgrade for Visitors: Friends of Cape Henlopen State Park won an AARP Community Challenge grant for a new ADA hydration station at Deauville Beach, plus a pet water feature. Public Safety Update: Delaware is moving ahead with Next Generation 911, upgrading statewide emergency communications and raising the 911 surcharge to fund the rollout.

Dover Air Force Base Ceremony: President Trump attended a dignified transfer at Dover for four U.S. service members killed in the Middle East, saluting flag-draped caskets as families met the president and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Travel Safety & Disruptions: Delaware State Police are investigating a fatal pedestrian crash in New Castle on Christiana Road involving a wheelchair user struck in a crosswalk; the roadway was closed for hours and investigators are seeking video or witness info. Weather Watch: A waterspout off Cape May and reports of funnel clouds in North Jersey were investigated after sporadic damage and downed trees/power lines; officials say more severe weather could shift toward southern Delaware and southeastern Maryland. Outdoor Access Upgrade: Delaware County cut the ribbon on renovations to the Chester Creek Trailhead in Middletown Township, expanding parking and improving drainage to boost access to the trail network. Local Culture: Bethany Beach will keep its long-running jazz funeral tradition going after the organizer’s death, with the city taking over planning for the Labor Day event.

Severe Weather & Flooding: A tornado watch was issued for parts of Delaware and the Philly region as storms brought heavy rain, downed trees, and power outages; Newark saw major tree damage and some areas in Sussex got more than 2 inches of rain in about an hour. Public Health: Delaware confirmed a measles case in Kent County (and a second case in an unvaccinated male), with DPH running contact tracing and urging residents to check vaccination status. Cyclospora Update: CDC says cyclosporiasis cases have surged past 4,000 across 41 states, with a reporting lag expected to push numbers higher. Family & Community Travel Stops: Dover’s long-delayed splash pad at Dover Park still isn’t open nearly three years after construction began, with final utility work and public health approvals still underway. Rehoboth Health Access: Beebe Health Suite at CAMP Rehoboth opens for scheduling July 27, with first appointments July 29, adding HIV/STI services, PrEP, vaccinations, and care navigation downtown. Animal Adoption: Brandywine Valley SPCA is running “pick-your-price” adoption fees through July 26 at PetSmart locations across Delaware, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Safety on the Road: Delaware Office of Highway Safety is urging extra caution for motorcyclists as summer riding ramps up.

Health & Tourism: Beebe Healthcare and CAMP Rehoboth are expanding downtown access with a new Beebe Health Suite at 39 Baltimore Ave. Scheduling opens Monday, July 27, with first appointments starting Wednesday, July 29. Services include HIV/STI screening, PrEP, vaccinations, care coordination, and health education. Road Safety: Delaware Office of Highway Safety is urging extra caution for motorcyclists after recent crashes left one rider dead and two seriously injured, highlighting that motorcycle fatalities make up 15% of Delaware’s traffic deaths in 2026. Local Events: The Coastal Delaware Artisan Market returns Aug. 16 at the Cambria Hotel in Rehoboth, featuring 35 local artists and fine-craft makers plus food and kids’ activities. Coastal Sports: Sydney Pizza of Dewey Beach won the pro women’s division at the 2026 OBX Skim Jam at Jennette’s Pier, with Elian Juarez taking pro men’s. Public Health: Delaware DPH confirmed its first measles case in more than a decade—an unvaccinated adult male in Kent County—while contact tracing continues. Weather Watch: Severe storms and tornado risk are in the forecast for parts of the Northeast, including Delaware. Travel Economy: West Marine filed for Chapter 11 and plans to close 59 stores nationwide, including three Ohio locations; the company says it’s reorganizing to keep serving boaters. Scam Alerts: Seaford is tied for 13th among Delaware cities for BBB Scam Tracker reports in June, with one report.

Coastal Cleanup Call: DNREC has opened volunteer registration for the 39th annual Delaware Coastal Cleanup on Saturday, Sept. 19, with a rain date of Sept. 26—more than 45 sites are available statewide, from Wilmington down to Fenwick Island. Weather Watch for Beach Plans: Tuesday’s forecast for Sussex and Delaware beach communities (Lewes/Rehoboth to Bethany and Fenwick) calls for multiple rounds of storms, with damaging wind gusts the main risk and heavy rain possible, raising flash-flood concerns. Health Alert: Delaware Division of Public Health confirmed the state’s first measles case in over 10 years—an unvaccinated adult man in Kent County—triggering contact tracing and urging residents to check vaccination status. Travel Safety Reminder: A deadly Ohio river incident (Scioto River) followed a rescue attempt for a struggling swimmer, underscoring why visitors should know local water conditions and skill levels before getting in. Road Work Note: Seal coat operations are scheduled to begin on Indiana’s State Road 1 and U.S. 35 in three counties starting July 27, with flaggers on site.