Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits, including faith-based organizations, can now apply for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) opportunity. NSGP is a competitive grant program that provides funding for projects that enhance physical security and cybersecurity to nonprofit facilities at high risk of a terrorist attack or other extremist attack. NSGP is funded through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and administered in partnership with FEMA and DEMA.

The deadline to apply is May 22, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

All NSGP activities must be linked to enhancing the security and safety at the physical site of a nonprofit. Nonprofit organizations with multiple sites may apply for up to $150,000 in competitive, reimbursable* funding, for up to three total sites, for a maximum possible award of $450,000. The maximum possible award per site is $150,000.

Applications include an Investment Justification (IJ) document, mission statement, and vulnerability assessment through the online Grant Management System (GMS) portal. Nonprofits applying for more than one site must submit separate applications for each location that include an IJ and vulnerability assessment unique to the individual sites. Applications will be reviewed by DEMA and then forwarded to the DHS/FEMA for final determination of eligibility and award.

To access the GMS portal, applicants must have or create an active my.delaware.gov account at this link and the organization must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). Organizations can obtain a UEI through SAM.gov. If an organization is already registered in SAM.gov, the UEI is viewable in the organizations account. Instructions on how to create a my.delaware.gov account and register in the GMS portal are available under the Resources tab on the DEMA website and will be covered during upcoming informational webinars (see below).

Free self-assessment tools and resources are available from the Delaware Information and Analysis Center (DIAC) and the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) for nonprofits to complete the required vulnerability assessment.

• CISA: Faith-Based Organizations and Houses of Worship Guide and Self-Assessment Tool
• DIAC: Vulnerability Self-Assessment Tool

DEMA will host the following webinars for interested NSGP applicants:

• April 30 at 7:00 p.m.
• May 2 at 12:00 p.m.

Webinars will overview the application process, best practices, and include a Q&A session.

To register for a webinar, complete the 2024 NSGP Webinar Registration Form.

Additional NSGP information and resources are available at fema.gov/grants/preparedness/nonprofit-security and de.gov/nsgp2024

Contacts:
Nicole Carey or Chanel Daniels
preparednessgrants@delaware.gov
165 Brick Store Landing Road
Smyrna, Delaware 19977
Phone: 302-659-3362

* NSGP is a reimbursement grant. Awarded nonprofits should anticipate paying for approved project costs initially. Reimbursement is then requested for incurred costs and provided through DEMA. Purchases may be made (and reimbursed) incrementally rather than the entire amount of awarded funds at once. Expenses must align with the nonprofit’s awarded project and occur within the Period of Performance. Unallowable costs will not be reimbursed.

Download the Nonprofit Security Grant Program Flyer 2024

In FY2023, $2.1 million was awarded to 14 Delaware nonprofits. Projects included installing vestibules, fencing, bollards, and outdoor security lighting; purchasing cybersecurity software; CCTV systems; and upgrading windows and doors to be forced-entry resistant.

Twenty Delaware artists receive significant award from the Delaware Division of the Arts

Dover, Del. (April 22, 2024) – The Biggs Museum of American Art has opened the exhibition, Award Winners XXIV, marking the 24^th consecutive year of hosting this exhibition in partnership with the Delaware Division of the Arts. Showcasing the exceptional work of Delaware’s Individual Artist Fellowship recipients, the exhibition is on view from April 18 to July 28, 2024. An opening reception, awards ceremony, and public performances were held on April 18 in partnership with Delaware State University at the Schwartz Center for the Arts, a short walk from the Museum.

Each year, the Delaware Division of the Arts recognizes outstanding artists through its Individual Artist Fellowships, offering monetary awards and public recognition. The fellows are selected based on the exceptional quality of their work, creativity, and skill in various art forms. This year, the Division received applications from 149 talented artists across disciplines such as choreography, composition, writing, visual arts, and more.  Their work samples were reviewed by out-of-state arts professionals.

“We are thrilled to host our 24^th Award Winners XXIV exhibition at The Biggs. This year, we have decided to incorporate works by Visual Arts, Folk Art, and Literature fellows on the first and second floors of our museum, interspersed among our permanent collection, to showcase works by contemporary makers in dialogue with museum objects.  It is remarkable to see how artists approach similar themes and techniques across generations.,” said the Biggs Museum Curator, Laura Fravel. “Participating in this annual exhibit allows us to connect with the incredibly talented local artists in our community. This year, we also are fortunate that one of the fellowship recipients, Rebecca Raubacher, has a solo exhibition at The Biggs that coincides with Award Winners XXIV and our visitors will be able to explore her work in greater depth.”  Rebecca Raubacher: Horses & Other Creatures opened on March 14 and remains on view on the museum’s third floor through July 7.

Award Winners XXIV features the work from artists from across the state, including fellowship recipients from Arden, Dover, Lewes, Long Neck, Newark, Rehoboth Beach, and Wilmington.  This year, one fellow was selected in the Masters category, ten in the Established category, and nine in the Emerging category. Their diverse creative expressions will be showcased in this group exhibition, which emphasizes the exceptional talent and artistic vibrancy within the Delaware arts community.

“Each year, the Award Winners exhibition showcases the remarkable talent of Delaware’s Individual Artist Fellowship recipients, offering a vibrant tapestry of creativity and skill across various art forms,” said Jessica Ball, Director of the Delaware Division of the Arts. “It’s inspiring to witness the diverse expressions of our local artists in dialogue with the museum’s permanent collection, highlighting the enduring relevance of art across generations.”

The exhibition will premiere at the Biggs Museum of American Art and subsequently travel to CAMP Rehoboth and the Cab Calloway School of the Arts, creating various opportunities for the public to engage with and appreciate these remarkable works.

The museum is open Thursday through Sunday from 10 AM – 5 PM. For more information, please visit the Biggs Museum website www.theBiggsMuseum.org or contact the museum at 302-674-2111.

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Interviews with The Biggs, DDOA or Individual Artists available upon request.

DDOA Contact: Andrew Truscott, Program Officer, Marketing and Communications, 302-577-8280, andrew.truscott@delaware.gov

The Delaware Division of the Arts, a branch of the Delaware Department of State, is dedicated to cultivating and supporting the arts to enhance the quality of life for all Delawareans. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life. For more information about the Delaware Division of the Arts, visit arts.delaware.gov or call 302-577-8278.

Biggs Museum of American Art Contact: Kerri Lacey, Director of Marketing & PR, 302.760.5305, kerri.lacey@thebiggsmuseum.org

The Biggs Museum of American Art, located in Dover, Delaware, celebrates the rich artistic heritage of the United States through its outstanding collection of American fine and decorative arts. With rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and community collaborations, the Museum aims to inspire a deeper appreciation and understanding of American art. For more information visit: www.theBiggsMuseum.org

Secretary of Transportation Nicole Majeski was joined by representatives of the Delaware State Police and AAA Mid-Atlantic on Monday at the 95/896 interchange project to call attention to the importance of safe driving in our work zones across the state.

National Work Zone Awareness Week is held each April at the traditional start of construction season, when the number of workers on our nation’s roadways increases. The theme of this year’s work zone awareness campaign is, “Become a hero toward zero, their lives depend on it.” The campaign features DelDOT workers who put their lives on the line daily as they work within active traffic maintaining Delaware roads.

“Sadly, we have had 22 fatalities over the past three years involving the traveling public in work zones and there have been close calls with employees that have resulted in injuries,” said DelDOT Secretary Nicole Majeski. “We would like everyone to join the Be DelAWARE campaign to help us increase safety for everyone on our roads.”

Major Jason Sapp of the Delaware State Police added, “The Delaware State Police is committed to focused presence and when necessary, enforcement in work zones throughout the State of Delaware. Work zones are inherently dangerous locations not only for those working in them but also for those motorists and passengers attempting to navigate them. Just a little bit of extra attention is really all that is needed to recognize you are entering a work zone so that you can decelerate and take the appropriate steps to maximize safety through responsible driving behaviors.”

Although highway workers are often among the victims of such crashes, it’s important for drivers to understand that four out of five victims of work zone crashes are drivers or their passengers. Generally, crashes occur when drivers speed through a work zone or do not pay attention to the changing road conditions and run into other vehicles, highway equipment or safety barriers, or drive off the roadway completely. In a typical five-day work week, an average of seven motorists and one worker are killed nationwide. The primary causes of work zone crashes are following too closely and inattentive driving.

The National Work Zone Awareness Week began in 1999, when the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA), and the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) signed a Memorandum of Agreement pledging to increase public awareness of work zone safety issues through a national media campaign. Since then, awareness has continued to grow, with state agencies and other organizations sponsoring high-visibility education and outreach initiatives.

Some simple tips for improving work zone safety include:
* When you see the “orange and black,” be extra cautious.
* Warning signs will let you know what to expect.
* Barrels or cones will delineate your path of travel.
* Flag persons will help direct you along the way.
* Avoid distractions.
* Don’t tailgate.
* Don’t change lanes.
* Reduce speed when approaching toll booths.
* Slow down and expect the unexpected.

For complete Delaware work zone statistics check out the Delaware Strategic Highway Safety Plan at: https://deldot.gov/Programs/DSHSP/index.shtml?dc=work_zone_safety

The United States Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration has also developed a Work Zone Safety webpage highlighting the statistics for the frequency and severity work zone crashes:
FHWA Work Zone Facts and Statistics – FHWA Office of Operations (dot.gov)

The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is excited to announce the DMV on the Go trailer will kick off its third season on Monday, April 1, 2024.

This season’s schedule will differ slightly from last year. Instead of appearing in Wilmington on Tuesdays, the trailer will head south to the CHEER Center in Milton. The Georgetown DMV is becoming our busiest DMV location in the state and having the DMV on the Go in three Sussex locations will help us better serve our customers.

“Mobility is one of the DMV on the Go’s greatest assets,” shared Delaware Department of Transportation Secretary Nicole Majeski. “It allows us to adjust our location based on usage and performance ensuring we are serving our customers to the best of our abilities,” continued Majeski.

“The DMV on the Go’s popularity, especially in Sussex County continues to grow,” said Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles Director Amy Anthony. “Customers really appreciate its accessibility, reduced wait times, and the multitude of services we can offer from a 45’ trailer. The feedback from our first two seasons has been overwhelmingly positive and we can’t wait to kick off our third,” assured Anthony.

The DMV on the Go trailer, featuring four fully functional workstations, made its debut in April of 2021. It’s ADA- accessible. It comes complete with an awning for bad weather and a wheelchair lift, and it performs all transactions as a traditional DMV except for inspections and road exams. Customers in need of uninsured motorist or in-person driver improvement assistance still need to visit the Wilmington, Delaware City, Dover, or Georgetown DMV location.

Last year, the DMV on the Go trailer assisted over 1,600 customers by allowing them to renew their registrations, driver licenses, complete title work, and more right in their neighborhood.

DMV on the Go locations April 1 through October 31, 2024:

Mondays from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
DART’s Lewes Transit Center
17616 Coastal Highway
Lewes, DE 19958

Tuesdays from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Milton CHEER Center
24855 Broadkill Road
Milton, DE 19968

Thursdays from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Big Lots Plaza
820 Norman Eskridge Highway
Seaford, DE 19973

For the full DMV on the Go schedule CLICK HERE or visit dmv.de.gov . To access other DMV services, customers can complete more than 20 transactions online at mydmv.delaware.gov/ including Delaware driver license, identification, and vehicle registration renewals, duplicates, and address changes.

Hussein named Delaware’s finalist for second consecutive year

Wilmington, Del. (March 7, 2024) – Following a spirited competition featuring eleven talented high school students from Delaware, Maiss Hussein, a senior from Paul M. Hodgson Vocational Technical High School, emerged as the 2024 Poetry Out Loud Delaware State Champion. The exhilarating state finals took place on February 29th, 2024, at the Smyrna Opera House. Joelle Caternor from Smyrna High School secured the first runner-up position, while Jono McGarvey from Delaware Valley Classical School claimed the second runner-up title.

This victory marks Maiss as only the third participant in Delaware’s 18-year involvement with the program to secure consecutive wins. Reflecting on her achievement, Hussein remarked, “My first win was unforgettable, but the second time around has left me in awe. It feels like I’m still in shock!”

Hussein’s captivating recitation of “If They Should Come For Us” by Fatimah Asghar earned high praise from the adjudicators. The profound poem can be explored on the Poetry Foundation’s website.

In an ode to Maiss’s exceptional achievement, Jessica Ball, Director of the Division of the Arts, remarked, “Maiss Hussein’s victory is not just a triumph for her, but a testament to the power of poetry to transcend and inspire. We are immensely proud of her accomplishment and look forward to witnessing her shine on the national stage.”

As the 2024 Poetry Out Loud Delaware State Champion, Maiss will be awarded $200 and the esteemed opportunity to compete at the National Finals in Washington, D.C., scheduled from April 30th to May 2nd, 2024. Furthermore, Paul M. Hodgson Vocational Technical High School will receive a $500 stipend for the acquisition of poetry materials. Joelle Caternor, the first runner-up, will be granted $100, and Smyrna High School will receive $200 for its school library.

The Poetry Out Loud state competition, presented by the Delaware Division of the Arts in collaboration with the National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation, serves as a pivotal platform encouraging high school students to delve into great poetry through memorization, performance, and spirited competition. A recording of this year’s Competition can be found on the Division’s YouTube page.

For further details regarding the competition and a comprehensive list of state finalists, kindly visit our website.

Photo Credit: Sam Wilson, Moonloop Photography

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Contact: Andrew Truscott, Program Officer, Marketing and Communications

302-577-8280, andrew.truscott@delaware.gov

The Delaware Division of the Arts, a branch of the Delaware Department of State, is dedicated to cultivating and supporting the arts to enhance the quality of life for all Delawareans. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life. For more information about the Delaware Division of the Arts, visit arts.delaware.gov or call 302-577-8278.