New Castle DIGEST - November 1, 2024
Monthly 'News, Views & Stuff to Do' for the City of New Castle, Delaware
I. October News Round-Up 📰
Standing Room Only for Bluey Event at Library
On Saturday, 10/19, over six hundred families passed through New Castle Public Library at 5th & Delaware, with one lovable, Aussie pup on their mind: Bluey, the immensely popular children’s character, whom the library hosted for Breakfast.
Within a couple days of the event being shared on social media, registrations had blown past the initial maximum. In response, library staff raised the limit - several times - before ultimately recognizing that word of the event had spread beyond the usefulness of even having registrations. The kids wanted time with Bluey - and Children’s Librarian Ewa did not want to disappoint.
Before the library even opened on Saturday, there was a line around the corner and half-way down 5th Street… a line that just kept growing, even as Bluey arrived for Story Time and then began taking visits with families. As kids began dispersing from the main floor to Bluey-themed ancillary events downstairs, more just kept coming.
Breakfast - sponsored by the New Castle Library Friends - consisted of bagels, fruit and cereal/granola bars. A small army of juice boxes was quickly overwhelmed by the larger army of excited kids as volunteers did their best to keep items stocked and to keep the long line moving.
With the astounding turnout, some families had to wait a little bit for their solo time with the beloved children's character, but in the end everybody got their photo op with Bluey and seemed to have a good time. Congrats to the library staff on managing well the barely-controlled-chaos that brims over at any event involving hundreds of children.
WPHS Educator Shelby Borst Named Delaware’s Teacher of the Year
William Penn High School social studies teacher Shelby Borst was recently named Teacher of the Year for 2025 by the Delaware Department of Education, following a highly competitive nominating and review process.
From the Colonial School District website:
With a psychology degree in hand, Shelby Borst wondered what career path to take until she observed and assisted a teacher in a middle school classroom. “I decided on the spot that I will be an educator who supports, empathizes, and challenges young minds. I want young people to know that someone cares about them.”
Borst is honored to be named William Penn’s Teacher of the Year calling her nomination surreal adding, “I grew up in a culture of working hard, even when no one is watching. To know that students, families, and colleagues not only notice but praise my role in our school community means the world to me.”
Borst likes to keep students engaged with creative lessons, activities, and classroom practices. She also cherishes the day-to-day exchanges she has with students saying, “Big moments surely weigh on my mind. But, so many times when I think about what I enjoy most, I think about the little moments that are easy to miss; like the sound of the bell at 7:04 am when the halls fill with students, visibly going from sleepy-eyed to bright-eyed when they see me standing outside of my door to offer them a ‘good morning.’ It is a privilege to relish in the small in-between moments that just exude joy and life”.
Borst [also] knows what it’s like being a student in Colonial. She attended Southern Elementary and Gunning Bedford Middle School before her family moved out of the district and says, “I returned to the Colonial School District because of its community. Colonial creates a sense of community in every strand of its intricate web. Everyone in this district puts time, effort, and heart into what we do by providing access and opportunity to every student enrolled and every educator hired. Simply put, nothing is more rewarding than being an educator!”
Fresh off Success on The Green, Outreach Team Planning Fall Festival in Battery Park
The New Castle Saturday Market series that quickly gained popularity after launching in July had a big, strong finish on October 12. The final market of this season - planning has begun for Spring ‘25 - featured a pumpkin maze for kids, hayrides and lots of great vendors offering special, seasonal tricks and treats alongside their normal fare.
Over the course of its run, the Saturday Market brought a noticeable increase in foot traffic to the downtown area, especially in mid- to late-mornings. New Castilian regulars and visitors from a bit farther afield mingled at the market and then spread out, especially as market mornings got cooler over the last month or so.
The markets were organized by Keenan Jones of Delaware Events, in collaboration with New Castle Outreach Team John Reaves and Phee Price (pictured above in the pumpkin maze).
Now, with vendors and shoppers alike clamoring for more, this group has set their sights on another new event for New Castle: a “Delaware Fall Festival” to be held in Battery Park, November 24. Many vendors have already committed and, with a strong early response on Social Media, this event seems likely to bring more attention - and visitors - to the city.
October Updates from City Council
City Council met three times in October. Two Special Meetings were held at the City Admin building, in executive session, possibly for discussions around city workers’ collective bargaining agreement (see below).
Council’s regular monthly meeting was held October 8 at the Senior Center.
Highlights from the meeting included:
Ordinance 551 received a first reading. It would add a benefit for resident firefighters to the city’s tax code of $500/yr for an active firefighter, or $900 for a couple if both are active firefighters.
Council unanimously approved amending the city’s Collective Bargaining Agreement with the union representing city admin and public works employees. Resolution 2024-40 authorized the change, which would shift some of the costs of benefits to the city, in an effort to help workers with rising costs and continue to attract and retain a strong workforce.
Resolution 2024-39 passed unamimously, authorizing the Old New Castle Outdoor Recreation (ONCOR) group to apply for an ORPT grant in the city’s name as it continues to seek funding for the Battery Park Playground project.
David Salter, Exec. Dir. of the Community Collaboration of DE (CCD) spoke about the HOPE program, which received a grant from the city in order to set up classes for middle school students about abstaining from drugs and alcohol. Because only a handful of kids had signed up for the 11-week course, he said, CCD was considering other means of delivering the content, including working more directly with local schools such as George Read Middle School. They are also exploring other programming options within New Castle such as town forums and trainings, which would make use of the funds.
From City Administrator Antonina Tantillo’s report…
New Castle has applied for a grant to improve cyber security, and a Homeland Security grant to improve overall facility safety and security.
The order was placed for a new mobile stage for the city, delivery date TBD but should be less than 6 months.
She hopes the city’s new code enforcement officer will start soon, and will be posting another job opening in code enforcement thereafter.
The signs indicating a 2-hour parking limit on Delaware Street between 4th and 5th Streets have been removed. One was replaced with a speed limit sign, the other with a Yield-to-Pedestrians sign.
Police chief Richard McCabe announced that the first Police Advisory Commission meeting had been held, with members getting introduced to each other and oriented to their new roles. He also noted that Capt. Tina Shughart is gearing up for the department’s toy drive, seeking to connect with families in need in the city. Info is on the NCPD website.
Chief McCabe also introduced Harold Stafford of the Lights On program, which offers residents solar-powered exterior lights to improve the lighting (and therefore the safety) around their homes. They also offer other services around energy efficiency, safety and security. There is no cost to the city, and the bulbs they give out last 15 years while costing $2/year to run.
Following citizen input, Council is looking into grants and sponsorships to help with the costs of building and maintaining the dog park, for which Mr. Zeltt said a site plan using the Chestnut Street location was in the works.
Council President Suzanne Souder reported having met with the Flood Resiliency Committee and an informal working group consisting of other city and federal officials. They are looking at how to move forward given the reductions in funding for the federal program into which New Castle had been accepted, and the uncertainty surrounding the 2024 election.
Mayor Leary addressed resident concerns about letters sent by the MSC requesting additional meter deposits. As recalled by Ms. Souder, the mayor “explained that during the pandemic when people fell behind on their bills, MSC applied their prior deposit to their accounts. Residents to whom this applied were told at the time that there would be a new deposit required. This is required only for those who have an irregular payment history. If anyone has questions about this, they should contact the MSC.”
Further Info: Meeting Agenda | Meeting Video | Council’s Meeting Packet (with various monthly reports, plus resolutions, proposals and previous minutes)
Burn Ban Remains Active throughout Delaware
Good Will Fire Company recently shared an “Important Message from the Delaware State Fire Marshal's Office,” which remains in effect:
State Fire Marshal John W. Rudd has ordered a Burning Ban… for all outdoor burning, as current conditions throughout the State of Delaware are extremely dry and pose a fire hazard.
Effective immediately, the following are prohibited:
Bonfires.
Controlled burnings, including burning of leaves and yard waste.
Agricultural burnings.
Fires for land clearing.
Fires for demolition and removal of hazards.
Outdoor rubbish fires, whether or not contained.
What is currently permitted:
Campfires in areas cleared of all combustibles, surrounded by a non-combustible ring no larger than 3’ x 3’, and used for cooking only.
Grills/hibachis in areas cleared of surrounding combustibles and used for cooking only.
Carelessness with matches, discarded cigarettes, and vehicle exhausts are the most frequent causes for ignition of dry grass, mulch, and other landscape materials. State Fire Marshal Rudd asks that all persons properly dispose of cigarettes and matches and avoid parking on or near dry leaves and grass. All persons are requested to cooperate in an attempt to reduce the danger of fire that threatens our State.
Violators of the Burning Ban may be punished by civil or criminal penalties to the extent allowable by Delaware Code.
II. ICYMI: Social Media Spotlight 📸
‘In Case You Missed It’ … October brought out Nature’s Majesty - and her Mean Streak. We had Northern Lights in this ‘Southern’ state, while locals lent aid after brutal storms battered states to our south.
The gorgeous photo below was taken by Michael Reilly, a member of the private City Topics Group on Facebook. He permitted us to share it more widely for those - like us - who missed the beautiful Aurora Borealis that was visible from New Castle on October 10.
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New Castilians’ heroism was on display as members of Good Will Fire Co. and the Municipal Services Commission headed south to North Carolina and Florida, respectively, to help out following the hurricanes that affected so many there.
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History came alive in vivid ways this month, with events honoring the return of the Marquis de Lafayette to New Castle after his famed ancestor’s visit 200 years ago. (See the video from which the below snapshot was taken, here.)
Local history also resumed, in a way, with the Saturday Markets bringing commerce back to the “Market Plaine” - aka The Green.
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Of course, as always, a few lovely Fall things caught our Autumnal eye…
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And, finally, in these final days of October, if you’re on Facebook, look out for a special Spooky Series of photos by Frank Moriarty. Here’s a teaser shot for his ‘Beyond the Boo’ series, a play on the ‘Beyond the Book’ shots he has been sharing on his page to promote Within Walking Distance: Historic New Castle.
III. General Election Info 🗳
On Tuesday, November 5, New Castilians will join citizens throughout Delaware and the U.S. in casting ballots for state and federal offices, including:
Delaware Governor & Lt. Governor
Delaware Insurance Commissioner
U.S. Representative
U.S. Senator, and
U.S. President & Vice President
While they will be on the ballot, local state Representatives Franklin Cooke (Dist. 16) and Melissa Minor-Brown (Dist. 17) face no opposition. State Senator Nicole Poore’s term is not up until 2026.
In New Castle County elections, Marcus Henry (D) is running unopposed for County Executive. For president of County Council, Monique Johns (D) is running against Melissa S. Brayman (R) for the open seat. In Council District 12, which includes New Castle, Keven Caneco (D) is running unopposed.
For excellent local coverage of the state & county candidates, check out:
For direct links to candidate pages, election integrity sites (watchdogs) and more, chek out our previous Primer from the Primary in September.
Election Day is Tuesday, November 5
Polls will be open from 7am to 8pm.
Local polling places include the New Castle Senior Center, William Penn High School, and others. If you’re unsure, go to iVote.de.gov to find out where to vote if casting your ballot on Election Day. That site can also be used to check your registration.
Absentee ballot requests must be received by the Dept. of Elections by November 1. Early voting is also available, with the closest location for that being the Department of Elections building on Lisa Drive (off of US Route 13). Hours at that location are shown in the image below.
The Vote is the most powerful instrument ever devised by human beings
for breaking down injustice and destroying the terrible walls
which imprison people because they are different from others.
President Lyndon B. Johnson
IV. Event Calendar 📅
There are lots of Seasonal and Spooky events coming up in Historic New Castle!
For a farther view and to catch more events as they are added, check out and bookmark our website’s Community Calendar.
Remaining in OCTOBER…
10/26 - Celebrating William Penn Day at NC Court House Museum, 10am-4pm.
Commemorating the anniversary of William Penn’s Oct. 27, 1682 arrival at New Castle, his first landing in the New World. Admission for all programs is free. Learn about the treaty Penn made with the Lenni Lenape at Noon, then enjoy music from the period, performed by Delaware Music School’s Suzuki Academy at 3pm.10/26 - Fire Prevention Open House & Award Ceremony at GWFC, 11am-3pm.
Good Will Fire Company welcomes guests and announces winners of its Poster and Essay Contest… See equipment and apparatus from Good Will and other companies and pick up valuable information from various aid agencies.10/26 - Nora Lee’s Halloween Party at Nora Lee’s French Quarter Bistro, 6-10pm.
Halloween party with costume contest at 10pm. Prize giveaway for best costume. Enjoy delicious food and drinks and special treats from staff.10/27 - Halloween Kids’ Tea Party at The Window on Delaware Street, 2-4pm.
A fun event with a Halloween theme featuring Fancy tea cups, Halloween sweet treats from Dream Bakery, and a Halloween craft lesson, with take home. $35, limited seating.10/27 - Shakespeare, Poe & Friends at the Read House, 3pm.
Presented by DHS & Delaware Shakespeare - tickets & info here.
10/29 - Theology on Tap Monthly Discussion Series at Oaxaca Bar & Grill, 6pm.
This month’s conversation is on “Disinformation, Misinformation, and the Perils of Political Mega-Identities,” led by UD professor Dr. Dannagal Goldthwaite Young and presented by Immanuel Episcopal Church on the Green.10/30 - New Castle Lions’ Annual Halloween Parade, Delaware Street, 6:30pm.
Open to residents of all ages, and friendly pets. Costumed participants should be at the St. Peter’s School lot at 6pm to register/line up. Cash prizes for winners in 12+ categories.
Coming Up in NOVEMBER 2024
11/2 - PRIDE Pop-Up Market, on The Green, 12pm-5pm.
Vendors, music, food and fun celebrating and supporting LGBTQIA business/community.11/2 - Día de los Muertos Celebration at Oaxaca Bar & Grill Patio, 2pm-close.
Honor loved ones lost at a community ofrenda. There will be vendors, artists, musicians, and fun activities for everyone! Ends at dusk prior with a ceremonial lighting of ofrenda candles in celebration and remembrance.
11/3 - Champagne, Chocolate & Couture at the Immanuel Parish House, 3pm.
A fashion show centuries in the making! Sip champagne or sparkling cider and enjoy delectable chocolates while live models show off women's fashion from 1760 - 1970! The show is narrated, and explains the styles that shaped fashion over three centuries. Ticketed event with limited seating - more info here.11/8 - Designer Bag BINGO! at Good Will Fire Hall, 7pm. (Doors open at 6.)
Play for a chance to win designer handbags from brands like Michael Kors, Kate Spade and Coach. Organized by the Ladies’ Auxiliary in support of GWFC. Tickets are $30, available to purchase at the door. Food and drinks will be available.11/12 - City Council (Triple) Public Hearing at the Senior Center, 6:45pm.
Council will hear public comments on three proposed Ordinances:Ord. 550 - Moratorium on Approval of Large Apartment Structures,
Ord. 548 - Amending code to simplify lot frontage around wetlands, and
Ord. 551 - Adding a tax incentive for resident firefighters.
11/12 - City Council Regular Meeting at the Senior Center, 7pm (or after hearing).
Agenda to be posted.11/15-16 - ‘Escape New Castle!’ Escape Room at NC Court House, 6 & 6:30pm.
Have fun after hours in the Assembly Room at the New Castle Court House as you try to move the Capital before the British arrive in this exciting escape room. This is a free event but registration is required - just email the Court House. Light refreshments served.11/16 - Holiday Bake Sale & Bazaar at New Castle United Methodist, 9am-3pm.
11/19 - Networking Breakfast at the Delaware Skills Center, 7:30am-9am.
A morning of networking at DSC, part of the New Castle County Vo-Tech School District. Free to DSCC members, $15 for future members. Light breakfast included.11/24 - First Annual Delaware Fall Festival, in Battery Park, 12pm-6pm.
First annual Delaware Fall Festival event in Battery Park. It is a FREE family event celebrating fall and all it has to offer.
Then in DECEMBER…
12/1 - CCD’s Holiday Race for Recovery 5K around New Castle, 10am.
Starting at St. Peter’s School. Holiday attire is not required but is highly encouraged. Info and registration here. Organized by Community Collaboration of DE.12/4 - Natural Materials Donation Drop-Off behind The Arsenal, all day.
Wreath Workshop pre-event for dropping off natural decor (in the fenced area). Visit the link for info on accepted materials.12/5-6 - Arasapha’s Wreath Workshop at The Arsenal, Thu. 11a-7p, Fri. 9a-Noon.
Help New Castle’s Historic Garden Club make wreaths and greens to decorate historic and civic buildings throughout the city - and make one for your own, while supplies permit (for $30, starting 5pm on Thursday). Info at Arasapha.org.
Thank you for reading!
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