Good morning, Dover.

Spirit Halloween has opened six pop-up stores in Delaware, filling empty retail spots in Dover, Newark, and Stanton.

The seasonal retailer features new costumes, animatronic characters & Halloween decorations, inviting shoppers to embrace the spooky season.

The Greene Turtle in Newark closed Saturday during Parents and Family Weekend at the University of Delaware (a prime draw for visitors) as the Maryland-based chain scales back its local presence after opening on South Main Street in 2012; Dover and Churchmans Crossing remain open.

Delaware Department of Education awarded over $7.1 million in Bridge to Practice grants to 28 school districts and charter schools for the 2026-27 school year to boost early literacy instruction.

The grants will support professional learning and instructional coaching to improve reading outcomes.

The Delaware Department of Education announced more than $7.1 million in Bridge to Practice grants for 28 school districts and charter schools for 2026-27, including seven in Sussex County.

The funds will boost early literacy instruction through coaching, materials and professional learning.

Over 1,200 volunteers gathered over 3,800 pounds of trash and 21,000 items from local shorelines, wetlands, and waterways in mid-September — their efforts helped keep debris from worsening coastal conditions before a storm surge.

DNREC will update its cleanup dashboard with next year’s event details soon.

Governor Matt Meyer signed five bills on Monday in Wilmington to mark the beginning of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (aimed at boosting protections for survivors).

The new laws strengthen help for victims as the Delaware Coalition Against Domestic Violence urges those in need to seek support.

Dover homeowners can schedule a free water test with Leaf Home Water Solutions to check for hard water issues and improve taste—available in one day.

The company offers up to a 25% discount + free consultation through Oct. 31.

Local high school cheerleading squads in District 2A-1 are set for a vote as students choose the team with the most spirit.

Voting is free on Delaware Online from Monday through Thursday + the winner will be announced Friday, Oct. 9.