DOVER, Del. – The Delaware State University Hornets football program has revealed its 2026 season schedule, featuring six total home contests including a special game at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
The upcoming season will mark the second year for head coach DeSean Jackson, who guided the team through an exceptional inaugural campaign. The Hornets will host five regular games on their Dover campus, with the Lincoln Financial Field matchup serving as an additional home venue opportunity for fans.
Jackson’s first season at the helm of the DSU program was described as historic, setting high expectations for the 2026 campaign. The former NFL star turned collegiate coach will look to build on that early success with the expanded home schedule.
The announcement comes as the university continues to generate excitement around its football program under Jackson’s leadership. Further details about opponents and specific game dates are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
Drivers traveling south on Route 13 near Georgetown should expect delays due to a temporary turn lane closure in effect until 3 PM today.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that the turn lane blockage is located on southbound Sussex Highway between Cart Branch Circle and Market Street (Route 16).
Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and use caution when navigating through the affected area during the closure period.
The Maryland Environmental Trust has distributed $205,134 among 21 organizations through its Keep Maryland Beautiful grant initiative, supporting environmental conservation efforts throughout the state.
This year’s funding cycle represents four decades of continuous grant distribution, with the program celebrating 40 consecutive years of supporting projects that protect Maryland’s natural environment.
Three state agencies collaborate to fund these grants: the Maryland Environmental Trust, Maryland Department of Transportation, and Maryland Department of Agriculture. The Maryland Environmental Trust, operating under the Department of Natural Resources, oversees the program while the Chesapeake Bay Trust handles administrative duties.
“The community work being supported through this program shows that every contribution matters when it comes to protecting our natural resources,” said DNR Secretary Josh Kurtz. “The Keep Maryland Beautiful grants are a testament to the work and collaboration among our funding partners and longstanding supporters who invest in the program year after year.”
Maryland Department of Transportation Acting Secretary Katie Thomson emphasized the importance of environmental accessibility. “Our natural resources are among Maryland’s greatest assets and the Maryland Department of Transportation is proud to be a partner in ensuring a healthy and accessible environment for our families and communities,” Thomson stated. “Funding from the Keep Maryland Beautiful grants fosters stewardship of nature and supports environmental work by organizations, schools and neighborhoods.”
Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks highlighted the connection between environmental stewardship and farming success. “By empowering local communities, land trusts, and non-profits to take ownership of environmental stewardship, we are protecting the very natural resources that the agricultural community relies on to thrive,” Atticks explained. “From supporting soil health to preserving the open spaces that define our rural heritage, these grants ensure that Maryland’s working landscapes remain productive and vibrant. When we invest in the beauty and health of our land, we are directly investing in the long-term success of our farmers and the resiliency of our state’s number one industry.”
The grant program traces its origins to 1967 with the establishment of the Maryland Environmental Trust, though the current streak of annual awards started in 1987. Administrative responsibilities transferred to the Chesapeake Bay Trust in 2023.
MET Director John Turgeon expressed gratitude for ongoing partnership support. “Thank you to our partners for their unwavering support of the Keep Maryland Beautiful grants program,” Turgeon said. “These small but mighty grants help invest in our local nonprofits, communities, and land trusts that protect and care for Maryland’s natural resources.”
Dr. Jana Davis, president of the Chesapeake Bay Trust, praised the program’s community impact. “The Keep Maryland Beautiful grant program empowers people across the state to lead local projects for their communities,” Davis shared. “We are proud to administer this program that engages a wide range of local groups, from students to land trusts to civic organizations, to enhance natural spaces, strengthen neighborhoods, and inspire continued stewardship for the people and places that make Maryland special.”
Educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and land conservation groups across nine counties plus Baltimore City received funding through four distinct grant categories:
The Tree Planting on Agricultural Lands program distributed $98,134 across two grants, funded by the Maryland Department of Agriculture. These awards support cost-effective forest restoration projects on qualifying farmland, contributing to Maryland’s goal of planting 5 million native trees by 2031.
Six Land Trust Assistance grants totaling $55,000 were funded by MDOT and MET. These awards help Maryland land trusts build capacity, develop community programs, and strengthen organizational connections. The program honors Janice Hollmann, co-founder of both the Severn River Land Trust and Arundel Conservation Trust.
Eleven Community Stewardship grants worth $47,000 total were distributed to schools, nonprofits, and community groups by MDOT and MET. These funds support environmental education, community engagement, and green space projects while raising awareness of local environmental challenges.
One Aileen Hughes Grant of $5,000, funded by MET, recognizes outstanding conservation leadership within Maryland land trusts. This annual award honors the memory of Aileen Hughes, former longtime president of the American Chestnut Land Trust and conservation movement leader.
Recipients span from Anne Arundel County’s Scenic Rivers Land Trust to Washington County’s Land and Cultural Preservation Fund, with multiple organizations in Baltimore City and Baltimore County receiving awards. Other beneficiaries include groups in Calvert, Charles, Garrett, Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George’s counties.
Two teenagers were taken into custody in Newark following an incident where someone was struck in the face with a gel blaster projectile at a local shopping center.
Police officers were called to Brookside Shopping Center on the unit block of Marrows Road at approximately 11:45 a.m. on Thursday, March 19, 2026, after receiving reports that an individual had been hit in the face by an unidentified object.
Initially, authorities believed the projectile was from a paintball gun, but the investigation revealed the teens had used a gel blaster device. Law enforcement officials gathered descriptions of two suspects during their response to the scene.
The incident highlights growing concerns about the misuse of gel blaster toys, which can cause injury when used improperly or aimed at people without consent.
Motorists should expect delays on a busy stretch of Polly Drummond Hill Road today as construction crews have shut down the right lane in the northbound direction.
The lane closure affects the section of roadway between White Clay Creek State Park and Old Coach Road, according to DelDOT traffic officials.
The construction work is expected to wrap up by 5 PM today, at which time normal traffic flow should resume.
Drivers are advised to allow extra time for their commute and use caution when traveling through the work zone.
Motorists traveling on Route 9 southbound should expect lane restrictions in the New Castle area this afternoon.
Delaware Department of Transportation officials report that the shoulder is currently closed along the southbound lanes of River Road (Route 9) in the stretch between Federal School Lane and Hamburg Road.
The shoulder closure is scheduled to remain in place until 3:30 PM today. Drivers are advised to use caution when traveling through the affected area and to expect possible delays during the restriction period.
A group of four young agricultural professionals from Delaware made their way to Portland, Oregon this past March to participate in the 2026 Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Leadership Conference. The multi-day event, which ran from March 13-16, brought together agriculture advocates from across the nation for professional development and networking opportunities aimed at strengthening the farming industry’s future.
The Delaware Farm Bureau’s Young Farmers & Ranchers division serves agricultural professionals between the ages of 18 and 40, focusing on building leadership capabilities and advancing careers within the farming sector. The organization ensures its members can attend such conferences through fundraising initiatives including their yearly Tractor Pull event and auction held during the State Annual Banquet, with additional support from sponsors including Horizon Farm Credit.
Representing Delaware at the conference was Emerson Hickey from Middletown, who currently holds the position of DEFB Ambassador. Hickey earned her spot at the national gathering after claiming victory in Delaware’s Collegiate Discussion Meet this past December, which qualified her to compete on the national stage.
“Competing in the Collegiate Discussion Meet allowed me to engage in meaningful conversations about critical agricultural issues impacting not only the United States, but also right here in Delaware, alongside passionate and like-minded individuals from across the country,” Hickey said of her experience.
The conference agenda included educational workshops on various subjects such as policy developments, strategies for connecting with consumers, and leveraging social media platforms for agricultural advocacy. These learning opportunities prepared participants with tools necessary for promoting and protecting farming interests. Attendees also visited Oregon’s diverse agricultural businesses, including facilities producing cider, dairy products, and chocolate, as well as various growing operations that showcased the state’s agricultural variety.
Those seeking additional details about Delaware’s Young Farmers & Ranchers program can reach State Chair Connor Vincent at connor.vincent33@gmail. Questions regarding the Collegiate Discussion Meet can be directed to DEFB Government Affairs Coordinator Sydnie Grossnickle at [email protected] or by calling 302-697-3183.
Motorists traveling on Park Avenue (Route 431) should plan for potential delays this afternoon as construction crews continue work in the area.
According to DelDOT, intermittent lane restrictions are in effect on Park Avenue between Cedar Lane and the Lewes Georgetown Highway (Route 9). The lane closures are expected to remain in place until 5:00 PM today.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and consider alternate routes if possible while crews complete their work in the area.
Motorists traveling on southbound Route 9, also known as River Road, should expect delays due to an ongoing shoulder closure between Federal School Lane and Hamburg Road.
According to DelDOT officials, the closure is currently affecting traffic flow in the area and is scheduled to remain in place until 3:30 PM today.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time when using this route and to exercise caution while passing through the work zone.
Motorists traveling on Shipley Road should expect delays today as construction crews have traffic flaggers directing vehicles through an active work zone.
The flagging operation is taking place on Shipley Road between Philadelphia Pike and Washington Street Extension, according to DelDOT traffic alerts.
The traffic control measures are scheduled to remain in effect until 5 PM today. Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and use alternate routes if possible to avoid potential delays in the area.
Motorists traveling on Peach Tree Run should plan for potential delays today as construction crews have shut down one southbound lane.
The lane closure affects the stretch of roadway between Lochmeath Way and Mifflin Meadows Drive, according to Delaware Department of Transportation officials.
The construction work is scheduled to continue until 5 PM today, after which normal traffic patterns are expected to resume.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and consider alternate routes if possible to avoid congestion in the area.
Drivers traveling on Janice Road are facing traffic delays today as construction crews have temporarily shut down the southbound lane.
The closure affects the stretch of roadway running from Nassau Park Road to Coastal Highway (Route 1), according to DelDOT officials.
The southbound lane is expected to reopen by 5 PM today, though motorists are advised to seek alternate routes or allow extra travel time when passing through the area.
No additional details about the nature of the construction work were immediately available.
Motorists traveling southbound on Kenton Road should expect delays today as construction crews have closed one lane of traffic.
The lane closure affects the stretch of Kenton Road between Chestnut Grove Road and Burning Tree Road, according to DelDOT traffic information.
The construction-related lane restriction is scheduled to be lifted by 5 PM this evening. Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time or consider alternate routes to avoid potential backups in the area.
Drivers should expect periodic traffic delays on Estates Drive as construction crews continue their work in the area.
According to DelDOT, flagging operations will intermittently control traffic flow along Estates Drive between Appleby Road and Conlin Court. The traffic control measures are scheduled to remain in place until 6 PM today.
Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time when using this route and to exercise caution when approaching the work zone.
Drivers traveling on eastbound Route 16 in New Castle County should expect delays today as construction work has forced the closure of the right lane.
The Delaware Department of Transportation announced that the right lane on Route 16 eastbound will remain blocked from Jefferson Street to the Route 1 northbound connector through 3 p.m. this afternoon.
Motorists are advised to use caution in the area and allow extra travel time while work crews complete their construction activities. The lane is expected to reopen once the scheduled work is finished later today.
Good morning, Delmarva! We’re starting off this Friday with beautiful spring weather across the peninsula. Expect plenty of sunshine today with temperatures climbing to a comfortable 65 degrees – perfect weather to welcome the first official day of spring! You’ll notice a south wind picking up throughout the day, ranging from 5 to 20 mph, so secure any lightweight outdoor items.
The nice weather won’t last long, though. Rain showers are likely to move in tonight as temperatures drop to around 49 degrees. It’s a good idea to bring in any laundry or close those windows before heading to bed.
The good news? Saturday bounces back beautifully! We’ll see sunshine return with highs reaching 62 degrees – another lovely day to get outside. Saturday night stays pleasant with partly cloudy skies and lows around 43 degrees.
Overall, it’s a typical spring pattern with sunshine bookending a brief rainy period. Enjoy today’s gorgeous weather, and don’t forget that umbrella tonight! Have a wonderful Friday, Delmarva!
Delaware Department of Transportation officials have implemented a temporary lane closure on Route 1 northbound as construction crews work in the area.
The affected stretch runs from Painters Drive to Route 16, where the northbound lane has been blocked to traffic. DelDOT indicates the closure will last until 3 PM this afternoon.
Motorists traveling through this corridor should expect delays and consider alternate routes during the construction period. The closure is part of ongoing roadwork in the area.
WASHINGTON — The scorching heat wave that demolished March temperature records throughout the Southwest United States represents far more than an isolated weather anomaly. Scientists say it’s the most recent example of increasingly severe weather patterns occurring as global temperatures continue rising.
Weather experts warn that unprecedented and lethal climate extremes are now appearing at unusual times and in unexpected locations, placing more communities at risk. While the Southwest regularly experiences dangerous heat, this wave arrived months earlier than typical, including a 110-degree reading in Arizona’s desert on Thursday that broke the nation’s highest March temperature on record.
Preliminary temperature measurements from Arizona and southern California reached 109 degrees Fahrenheit on Thursday, potentially marking the hottest March day ever documented in the United States.
“This is what climate change looks like in real time: extremes pushing beyond the bounds we once thought possible,” said University of Victoria climate scientist Andrew Weaver. “What used to be unprecedented events are now recurring features of a warming world.”
According to a Friday report from World Weather Attribution, an international team of researchers studying extreme weather causes, March’s heat wave would have been nearly impossible without human-driven climate change.
Over a dozen scientists, meteorologists and disaster specialists contacted by The Associated Press classified the March heat wave alongside ultra-extreme events including the 2021 Pacific Northwest heat wave, Pakistan’s 2022 flooding, and devastating hurricanes Helene, Harvey and Sandy.
Data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Extremes Index shows the portion of the United States experiencing extreme weather over the past five years has doubled compared to two decades ago, encompassing various severe conditions from heat waves to droughts and intense rainfall.
The nation now breaks 77% more hot weather records compared to the 1970s and 19% more than the 2010s, based on an Associated Press analysis of NOAA data. Billion-dollar weather disasters in recent years occur twice as frequently and cost twice as much as a decade ago, and nearly four times more than 30 years ago, according to NOAA and Climate Central records.
“It’s really hard to even keep up with how extreme our extremes are becoming,” said Climate Central Chief Meteorologist Bernadette Woods Placky. “It’s changing our risk, it’s change our relationship with weather, it’s putting more people in risky situations and at times we’re not used to. So yes, we are pushing extremes to new levels across all different types of weather.”
Government disaster management officials describe the escalating extremes as a major challenge.
Craig Fugate, who led the Federal Emergency Management Agency through 2017, observed increasing extreme events during his tenure.
“We were operating outside the historical playbook more and more. Flood maps, surge models, heat records — events kept showing up outside the envelope we built systems around. That’s just what we saw,” Fugate said via email.
He continued: “We built communities on about 100 years of past weather and assumed that was a good guide going forward. That assumption is starting to break. And the clearest signal isn’t the science debate. It’s insurers walking away.”
Climate researchers at World Weather Attribution conducted a rapid analysis examining climate change’s role in the Southwest heat wave. Comparing this week’s projected temperatures with March observations since 1900 and computer climate models, they determined that “events as warm as in March 2026 would have been virtually impossible without human-induced climate change.”
The warming caused by burning fossil fuels added between 4.7 and 7.2 degrees Fahrenheit to current temperatures, the analysis found.
“What we can very confidently say is that human-caused warming has increased the temperatures that we’re seeing as a result of this heat dome, and it’s going to be pushing those temperatures from what would have been very uncomfortable into potentially dangerous,” said report co-author Clair Barnes, an Imperial College of London attribution scientist.
Stanford University climate scientist Chris Field categorizes the Southwest heat wave as a “giant event,” with temperatures climbing up to 30 degrees above normal levels.
Field identified five similar events from the past six years: Siberia’s 2020 heat wave, the 2021 Pacific Northwest heat wave that made British Columbia hotter than Death Valley, extreme summer temperatures across North America, China and Europe in 2022, western Mediterranean heat in 2023, and a 2023 South Asian heat wave with dangerous humidity levels.
This list excludes East Antarctica’s 2022 heat wave, when temperatures soared 81 degrees above normal — the largest temperature anomaly ever recorded, according to weather historian Chris Burt, author of “Extreme Weather.”
Scientists told the Associated Press that climate-influenced severe weather extends beyond extreme heat to include destructive hurricanes, prolonged droughts and intense storms.
Catastrophic flooding struck West Africa in both 2022 and 2024. Iran continues experiencing a six-year drought. The deadly Typhoon Haiyan that devastated the Philippines in 2013 stunned global observers.
Superstorm Sandy flooded New York City and surrounding areas in 2012, generating tropical storm-force winds across nearly one-fifth of the continental United States. The storm created 12-foot waves spanning 1.4 million square miles with energy matching five atomic bombs, said Yale Climate Connections meteorologist Jeff Masters.
Recent extremes should also include wildfires intensified by heat and drought, such as 2025’s Palisades and Eaton fires, which became the nation’s costliest weather disaster last year, noted Climate Central meteorologist and economist Adam Smith.
“This is due to climate change, that we see more extreme events, and more intense ones and have so many records being broken,” said Friederike Otto, an Imperial College of London climate scientist who coordinates World Weather Attribution.
Three members of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks bowling squad have been selected for All-MEAC team recognition ahead of the upcoming conference championship tournament.
The honored athletes are Santos Rivero, Gordon, and Almeida, who earned the distinction based on their exceptional performance throughout the current season.
This recognition comes as the Hawks prepare for the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference championship competition, where these standout players will look to help lead their team to success.
The All-MEAC selections highlight the strength of the Hawks’ bowling program and the individual achievements of these three student-athletes during the 2025-26 season.
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore women’s basketball team made program history Tuesday night, securing their inaugural postseason victory with a triumph over Wake Forest in the Women’s National Invitation Tournament.
The Hawks’ victory represents a double milestone for the program, as it also marks their first win against a power conference opponent. The team advanced to the WNIT’s second round with the breakthrough performance against the Atlantic Coast Conference school.
This historic achievement caps off a remarkable season for UMES, as the Hawks earned their first-ever invitation to postseason play. The team’s success against Wake Forest demonstrates the program’s growth and competitiveness on a national stage.
The Hawks will now prepare for their next WNIT matchup as they continue their inaugural postseason journey, looking to build on this landmark victory.
Delaware State University’s Early Childhood Innovation Center recently participated in the prestigious SXSW EDU conference, contributing to nationwide discussions about workforce challenges in early childhood education.
The university’s center joined education leaders from across the country at the annual conference, which brings together professionals to address critical issues facing the education sector. The participation highlights Delaware State’s role in addressing early childhood workforce development on a national scale.
The SXSW EDU event serves as a platform for educational institutions and organizations to share innovative approaches and solutions to pressing challenges in the field of education, particularly focusing on early childhood development and staffing needs.
INDIANAPOLIS – Salisbury University freshman swimmer Rowan O’Donoghue secured her second All-America honor at the NCAA Division III Swimming & Diving Championships, further cementing her status as one of the country’s premier first-year athletes.
Competing on Thursday’s second day of competition at the IU Natatorium in Indianapolis, O’Donoghue earned All-America recognition in the 200-yard freestyle for the nationally-ranked Sea Gulls women’s swimming program.
The achievement marks another milestone for O’Donoghue, who has quickly established herself as a standout performer for Salisbury’s 20th-ranked squad during her inaugural collegiate season.
O’Donoghue’s performance continues to bolster her growing reputation as one of the nation’s elite rookie swimmers as she competes at the premier Division III championship event.
INDIANAPOLIS – First-year standout Cameron Byrd from Salisbury University’s men’s swimming program earned All-America recognition during the second day of competition at the 2026 NCAA Division III Swimming & Diving Championships on Thursday.
Competing at the IU Natatorium, Byrd achieved the prestigious honor in the 100-meter butterfly event, marking the second All-America distinction for the Sea Gulls’ nationally-ranked swimming team during this year’s championship meet.
The accomplishment adds to the success of Salisbury University’s men’s swimming squad, which entered the championships ranked 18th in Division III competition.
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks softball squad delivered a commanding performance in their doubleheader matchup against Niagara University, claiming victory in both contests.
The Hawks secured the opening game with a 4-1 triumph before following up with an impressive 9-4 victory in the second matchup of the day.
The doubleheader sweep marks a successful outing for the UMES program as they continue their season campaign. The team’s offensive production was particularly notable in the second game, where they managed to score nine runs against their opponents.
Both victories demonstrate the Hawks’ ability to maintain consistency across multiple games in a single day, showcasing the depth and resilience of the squad throughout the extended competition.
Delaware Department of Transportation crews are conducting flagging operations at the intersection of Lorewood Grove Road and Airmont Drive, causing temporary traffic delays in the area.
The traffic control work began earlier today and is expected to wrap up by 3 PM this afternoon. Motorists traveling through the area should expect potential delays and plan for extra travel time.
DelDOT has not specified the nature of the work requiring the flagging operation, but drivers are advised to exercise caution and follow the direction of flaggers when passing through the intersection.
NEWARK – The University of Delaware women’s tennis team dominated their in-state rivals Delaware State on Thursday, claiming a decisive 7-0 shutout victory that pushed their winning streak to eight consecutive matches.
The Blue Hens showcased their strength in their season-opening match at the DFH Outdoor Courts in Newark, sweeping all competition against the Hornets.
This commanding performance continues Delaware’s impressive run of form as they kicked off their new campaign with a statement victory on their home courts.
The Goldey-Beacom College men’s golf squad kicked off their spring season competition at the Jefferson Invitational tournament in Norristown, Pennsylvania, finishing the opening round in a strong second-place position.
The Lightning posted a combined team score of 294 strokes on the first day of competition, positioning themselves well for the remainder of the tournament.
The spring campaign marks a fresh start for the Goldey-Beacom golfers as they compete against other collegiate programs in the multi-day invitational event.
The Goldey-Beacom Lightning softball team kicked off their 2026 home campaign in impressive fashion, claiming both games of a doubleheader against Lincoln University of Pennsylvania.
The Lightning dominated the opening contest with a commanding 9-1 win over their visiting opponents. The team then followed up with a thrilling 2-1 victory in the second game of the day.
The nightcap provided plenty of drama as freshman player Ayri Hansen from Lakewood, California, came through in the clutch. Hansen delivered the decisive hit in the bottom of the seventh inning, securing the sweep for Goldey-Beacom with her game-winning single.
The doubleheader sweep gives the Lightning positive momentum as they continue their 2026 season at home.
SYDNEY – Officials across Australia’s northeastern coastline issued urgent shelter warnings Friday as a powerful tropical cyclone approached the region, threatening to bring catastrophic winds, torrential rainfall, and widespread flooding.
Tropical Cyclone Narelle was positioned approximately 19 miles offshore in the Coral Sea and was forecast to strike land Friday morning as a Category 4 system, according to Australia’s meteorological agency. The storm ranks just one level below the most dangerous Category 5 classification.
Bureau of Meteorology forecaster Angus Hines warned ABC News that the cyclone could generate wind speeds reaching 155 miles per hour, powerful enough to tear trees from the ground and turn loose objects into dangerous projectiles.
“Winds of that speed are pretty hard to imagine if you haven’t experienced them before. They are just so, so strong,” Hines said during his ABC News interview.
“Obviously that puts a lot of branches and debris into the air flying around that can become really dangerous,” he added.
Weather officials predicted the cyclone would reach shore before 9 a.m. local time Friday and then lose intensity as it moves inland across the Cape York Peninsula during the following 18-hour period.
The storm is anticipated to regain strength, however, after moving over the warm waters of the Gulf of Carpentaria, where it will likely rebuild into a severe tropical cyclone before striking the Northern Territory on Saturday, according to Hines.
Emergency alerts have been issued along a 370-mile section of Far North Queensland, an area where roughly 300,000 people live. Weather authorities also cautioned that heavy precipitation could impact popular tourist destinations near the Great Barrier Reef.
A University of Maryland Eastern Shore basketball player has received national recognition for her exceptional performance on the court this season.
Senior guard Ashanti Lynch has earned a spot on BOXTOROW’s Division I Second Team HBCU All-American roster, marking a significant achievement for both the player and the Hawks women’s basketball program.
The honor recognizes Lynch’s standout contributions throughout the season as a key player for UMES. The All-American selection places her among the top performers across historically black colleges and universities nationwide.
BOXTOROW’s annual All-American teams celebrate the most outstanding student-athletes competing at HBCU institutions across the country. Lynch’s inclusion on the second team demonstrates her impact and skill level among elite college basketball players.
Good evening, Delmarva! We’re wrapping up this Thursday with pleasant spring-like conditions across the peninsula. Tonight will be mostly clear with temperatures dropping to a comfortable 35 degrees. With light south winds at 0 to 5 mph, it’s perfect weather for those evening walks or outdoor dinner plans.
Looking ahead to Friday, we’re in for a beautiful day! Expect mostly sunny skies with temperatures climbing to a delightful 62 degrees – perfect weather to get outside and enjoy what spring has to offer. However, don’t put that umbrella away just yet. Rain showers are likely to move in Friday night as temperatures dip to around 48 degrees.
The weekend kicks off with a slight chance of morning showers on Saturday, but conditions should clear quickly. We’ll see mostly sunny skies return with highs reaching 65 degrees – ideal for any weekend outdoor activities you’ve been planning.
Overall, it’s shaping up to be a gorgeous stretch of weather for our Delmarva communities. Stay dry Friday night, and enjoy the sunshine bookending our forecast! I’m your TV Delmarva meteorologist – have a wonderful evening!
Delaware Department of Transportation crews are currently performing maintenance work along a busy stretch of Route 7 in the Christiana area this morning.
The rolling operation is taking place on the right shoulder of southbound Stanton Christiana Road between Exit 165B and Exit 164A. DelDOT officials indicate the work will wrap up by 11:30 AM today.
Motorists traveling through the area should expect possible delays and are advised to use caution when passing the work zone. Drivers may want to consider alternate routes or allow extra travel time during the morning commute.
SALISBURY, Md. – Despite a stellar pitching performance on the mound, Salisbury University’s nationally-ranked baseball squad fell short in a tight contest against McDaniel College on Thursday.
The Sea Gulls, currently ranked fifth in the nation, dropped a 2-1 decision to the surging Green Terror at Donnie Williams Sea Gull Baseball Stadium. Pitcher Aidan Brinsfield delivered an outstanding effort over eight innings, but Salisbury’s offense failed to provide adequate run support.
The loss came against a McDaniel team that has been playing exceptional baseball recently, proving too much for the Sea Gulls despite Brinsfield’s impressive showing on the pitcher’s mound.
The University of Delaware Blue Hens baseball squad is gearing up to host Dallas Baptist University this weekend in a Conference USA series at home.
The Blue Hens will take on the Patriots in what marks another key conference matchup for the Delaware program as they continue their Conference USA campaign.
The weekend series represents an opportunity for the Blue Hens to compete against Dallas Baptist on their home field, with fans expected to turn out for the conference play.
Both teams will be looking to gain momentum in Conference USA standings as the season progresses.
CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – The University of Delaware women’s lacrosse squad made an impressive debut in Atlantic Sun Conference play, overwhelming Austin Peay with a commanding 19-3 victory on Wednesday.
The Fightin’ Blue Hens dominated from the opening draw, putting up an explosive 14 goals in the first half alone. Ten different Delaware players contributed to the scoring effort in what became a complete team performance.
The victory extends Delaware’s current winning streak to three games, bringing their overall record to 4-4 and marking a perfect 1-0 start in ASUN Conference competition. Meanwhile, Austin Peay drops to 4-6 overall and begins conference play at 0-1.
Delaware’s balanced offensive attack proved too much for the Governors to handle, as the Blue Hens controlled the pace throughout the contest. The team’s depth was on full display with the diverse scoring contributions across the roster.
This historic first ASUN Conference game represents a new chapter for the Delaware program as they continue building momentum in their latest winning streak.
WASHINGTON — Delaware has joined a coalition of 24 states filing a federal lawsuit against the Environmental Protection Agency, challenging the agency’s decision to eliminate a crucial scientific determination that served as the foundation for regulating greenhouse gas emissions nationwide.
The legal action, filed Thursday in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, targets the EPA’s recent elimination of a 2009 scientific determination that classified carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases as threats to public health and safety. This Obama-era determination provided the legal framework for virtually every climate regulation implemented under the Clean Air Act, affecting vehicles, power plants, and other sources of emissions contributing to global warming.
Eliminating this finding removes all emissions standards for automobiles and trucks and may lead to the dismantling of additional climate regulations affecting stationary facilities like power plants and oil and gas operations.
This marks the second significant legal challenge to the rule reversal, following an earlier lawsuit filed by environmental and public health organizations last month.
The coalition’s legal filing argues that the EPA’s decision to abandon the endangerment determination represents a failure of the agency’s fundamental duty to protect Americans.
“Rather than assisting Americans in confronting our current reality, the Trump administration has opted for denial, eliminating essential protections that form the cornerstone of federal climate change response,” stated New York Attorney General Letitia James, who spearheaded the lawsuit alongside top legal officials from Massachusetts, California, and Connecticut.
The legal challenge includes participation from 24 states, 10 municipalities, and five counties, all under Democratic leadership.
“Climate change represents a real threat that is already impacting our citizens and economic stability,” declared Massachusetts Attorney General Joy Campbell. “When federal authorities turn their backs on legal requirements and scientific evidence, ordinary citizens bear the burden.”
Campbell added that Massachusetts “has consistently pioneered efforts to shield our communities from greenhouse gas emission hazards and we take pride in stepping forward once more to champion this battle for our collective future.”
The U.S. Supreme Court established in a groundbreaking 2007 ruling that carbon dioxide and similar greenhouse gases qualify as “air pollutants” under Clean Air Act provisions. Following this high court decision in Massachusetts v. EPA, courts have consistently dismissed legal attempts to overturn the endangerment determination, including a 2023 ruling by the D.C. appeals court.
EPA representative Brigit Hirsch characterized the recent lawsuit as unrelated to “legal principles or substantive arguments.” She claimed the plaintiffs “are obviously driven by political motivations.”
Hirsch explained that the EPA “thoroughly examined and reassessed the legal basis” of the 2009 determination considering recent court rulings, including a 2022 Supreme Court decision that restricted how clean air legislation can be applied to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from power facilities.
Beyond New York, Massachusetts, California, and Connecticut, the legal action includes attorneys general from Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin, plus the District of Columbia and U.S. Virgin Islands.
Pennsylvania’s Department of Environmental Protection has also joined, along with municipalities including Albuquerque, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Columbus, Denver, Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco, plus five counties across California, Colorado, Texas, and Washington state.
Legal experts expect this dispute will ultimately reach the Supreme Court again, which now maintains a significantly more conservative composition than during its 2007 decision.
Motorists traveling on eastbound Fast Landing Road are encountering lane restrictions today as construction crews continue their work in the area.
DelDOT reports that the right lane remains blocked between North DuPont Highway (US Route 13) and East Dennys Road as part of an ongoing construction project. The mobile construction operation is expected to wrap up by 5:00 PM this evening.
Drivers are advised to plan for potential delays and consider alternate routes if possible during the remainder of the afternoon commute.
Delaware Department of Transportation officials have implemented a right shoulder closure on Marsh Road as construction crews continue their work in the area.
The affected stretch runs between Naamans Road and Chestnut Street, with the closure expected to last until 3 PM today.
Motorists traveling through the area should expect potential delays and are advised to use caution when passing through the construction zone.
Maryland Natural Resources Police conducted widespread enforcement operations during the winter months of 2025-26, leading to multiple arrests and citations for violations of hunting, fishing, and firearm laws across the state.
Officers addressed numerous infractions from December 2025 through February 2026, including illegal spotlighting, out-of-season hunting, weapons violations, improper oyster harvesting, and crimes committed on public lands.
West Virginia Resident Faces Gun Charges at C&O Canal
A routine patrol on February 13 in Washington County led to serious charges for a West Virginia man. Officers discovered a vehicle parked after hours at the C&O Canal in Williamsport with three occupants inside. A handgun was visible near the console, and investigation showed the 27-year-old Martinsburg resident lacked proper permits to carry firearms in Maryland. He now faces charges including handgun possession in a vehicle, carrying a loaded weapon illegally, and trespassing, with potential penalties of 20 years in prison and $10,000 in fines.
Hollywood Teen Cited for Roadway Shooting
Officers responded to gunfire reports on January 28 near Lewis Wharf Road and Elliott’s Island Road in Dorchester County. They located a vehicle with three individuals, one of whom confessed to firing a shotgun from the passenger window. The 19-year-old Hollywood man was cited for having a loaded weapon in a vehicle and shooting from a public road, facing up to $3,000 in fines. Police confiscated a Browning 12-gauge shotgun.
Preston Hunter Used Wrong Weapon During Archery Season
An investigation began January 28 when officers found an eight-point deer carcass at a Caroline County processor that showed rifle wounds despite being registered as a crossbow kill. The probe revealed a 33-year-old Preston man had used a Remington .270 rifle during archery season, outside the permitted firearm dates of November 29-December 13, 2025, and January 9-11, 2026. He faces charges for hunting during closed season, falsifying harvest reports, and using improper weapons, with potential fines reaching $6,000.
Frederick County Reporting Violations Uncovered
Data analysis led to citations on January 24 for improper deer harvest reporting in Frederick County. An 18-year-old Thurmont resident failed to report his deer within the required 24-hour window and registered a nine-point buck as a muzzleloader kill without purchasing the necessary stamp. Officers seized an eight-point deer head and hide plus a nine-point European mount, with the hunter facing up to $3,000 in penalties.
Pennsylvania Hunter Exceeds Bag Limits
A 25-year-old Greencastle, Pennsylvania man was cited January 18 for surpassing deer harvest limits at Indian Springs Wildlife Management Area in Washington County. He had already taken an antlered deer during archery season but checked in another on January 17, violating Deer Management Region A regulations. The violation carries a maximum $1,500 fine.
Oyster Storage Scheme Discovered in St. Mary’s County
Dockside inspections on January 14 revealed 21 bushels of oysters being illegally stored underwater at an Island Creek dock in St. Mary’s County. The oysters, harvested between December 12, 2025, and January 9, 2026, belonged to a 67-year-old Piney Point man who admitted to storing them while awaiting better market prices. The storage location was in restricted waters due to water quality concerns. Officers returned the oysters to non-harvest waters and issued citations carrying up to $2,000 in fines.
Allegany County Felon Faces Multiple Charges
A mutual aid operation in Allegany County on January 11 led to extensive charges for a 68-year-old Flintstone man. Officers discovered eight deer heads at his residence and found multiple reporting violations. Further investigation revealed the man was a convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms. Three weapons were seized, resulting in 14 natural resources citations and five criminal charges, with potential penalties of 27 years imprisonment and over $18,000 in fines.
Construction Debris Dumped in State Forest
Officers traced illegally dumped construction materials in Garrett State Forest back to a 34-year-old McHenry man on January 6. Evidence found within the debris led investigators to an active construction site, where they identified the responsible party. He received a citation for littering in a state forest, punishable by up to $500.
Smithsburg Pair Caught Baiting on Public Lands
Reports of illegal bait piles and permanent tree stands in Green Ridge State Forest led to citations on January 2. Officers found corn and apple piles where baiting is prohibited, along with permanent stands, cameras, and evidence of ATV use in restricted areas. Two Smithsburg men, ages 48 and 49, confessed to the violations and received citations carrying $500 maximum fines each.
Revoked License Holder Caught Commercial Fishing
New Year’s Day patrol in Caroline County resulted in charges for a 27-year-old Federalsburg man with a permanently revoked commercial fishing license. Officers spotted his registered vehicle at a boat ramp and waited for his return from gill netting activities. Vendor receipts showed he had previously sold blue catfish despite being barred from all commercial fishing. He faces three citations with potential $3,000 in fines.
Christmas Eve Chase Ends in Crash
A surveillance operation using a deer decoy on December 24 in Garrett County led to a dramatic chase when a 63-year-old Oakland man shot at the decoy and fled from officers. His vehicle crashed in wet conditions, and he ran into woods before surrendering. Officers recovered a .22 caliber rifle he had thrown from the vehicle and discovered he was prohibited from possessing firearms due to a felony conviction and had suspended driving privileges. He faces 29 years potential imprisonment and $12,000 in fines on firearms charges alone.
Additional Violations Result in Various Penalties
Other winter enforcement actions included citations for illegal baiting in Garrett State Forest, waterfowl hunting over bait in Dorchester County, roadway hunting by brothers in Garrett County, and multiple cases of prohibited persons possessing firearms while hunting in various state forests and parks. Penalties ranged from hundreds to thousands of dollars in fines, with some cases carrying potential prison sentences for repeat offenders and those with prior felony convictions.
The head coach of Salisbury University’s track and field program has earned prestigious recognition from a national coaching organization.
Jim Jones received the Mid-Atlantic Men’s Region Coach of the Year award for the 2026 indoor season, as announced Thursday by the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA).
The honor recognizes Jones’ leadership of the Sea Gulls’ men’s track and field team during the indoor competition season. The USTFCCCA presents these regional coaching awards annually to acknowledge outstanding performance and achievement in collegiate track and field programs across the country.
Delaware Department of Transportation crews are conducting litter removal operations along Interstate 495 today, working on shoulder areas in both travel directions between the Newport and Edgemoor sections.
The cleanup activities are taking place on both the northbound and southbound lanes of the interstate, with crews expected to wrap up their work by 5 p.m. this afternoon.
Motorists traveling through this stretch of I-495 may encounter the maintenance crews working along the roadway shoulders during the operation.
Motorists traveling on Route 1 southbound should expect delays this morning due to a traffic incident that has shut down the right lane near Route 299.
The Delaware Department of Transportation is reporting the lane closure and advising drivers to use caution when traveling through the area. Traffic is being directed around the incident scene.
DelDOT has not yet provided details about the nature of the incident or an estimated time for when the lane will reopen to normal traffic flow.
Drivers are encouraged to seek alternate routes if possible or allow extra travel time when passing through this section of Route 1.
Federal officials announced Thursday they are conducting investigations into 13 states, including Delaware, over requirements that health insurance plans provide abortion coverage.
These investigations represent the most recent chapter in an ongoing political battle over how to interpret the Weldon Amendment, a federal provision included annually in spending legislation since 2005. This amendment prohibits states from discriminating against healthcare organizations that refuse to provide, cover, or make referrals for abortion services.
During Joe Biden’s presidency, the Department of Health and Human Services’ civil rights division determined this provision did not apply to employers or healthcare plan sponsors. However, the current Trump administration has reversed this interpretation.
Federal officials now argue that states requiring abortion coverage may be breaking the law by failing to provide opt-out options for employers and healthcare plan issuers. The administration is requesting additional information from affected states through formal letters.
Paula M. Stannard, who heads the HHS civil rights office, explained the investigations aim “to address certain states’ alleged disregard of, or confusion about, compliance with the Weldon Amendment.”
“Under the Weldon Amendment, health care entities, such as health insurance issuers and health plans, are protected from state discrimination for not paying for, or providing coverage of, abortion contrary to conscience. Period,” Stannard said.
The targeted states include California, Colorado, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Vermont and Washington. Vermont is the only state among them with a Republican governor.
The Weldon Amendment belongs to a category of legislation called conscience laws, designed to protect individuals and healthcare organizations from being forced to provide abortions or related services that conflict with their religious or moral beliefs.
Mary Ziegler, who teaches law at the University of California, Davis, noted that since the amendment’s passage in 2005, its interpretation has shifted based on “partisan swing” depending on which political party controls the White House.
Ziegler observed that Democrats might have a stronger legal position since the amendment’s text doesn’t specifically mention employers and plan sponsors among protected healthcare entities, though courts have not yet settled this question.
Elizabeth Sepper, a law professor at the University of Texas at Austin, pointed out that Project 2025, the Heritage Foundation’s comprehensive policy blueprint, recommended that a Trump administration should cut Medicaid funding from states found violating the Weldon Amendment.
“What we’re seeing here is the fulfillment of a promise to the religious right,” she said.
During Trump’s previous term in 2020, his administration attempted to cut federal healthcare funding from California over alleged Weldon Amendment violations, but the Biden administration reversed that decision upon taking office in 2021.
Ocean City Police Chief Raymond J. Austin announced that Lieutenant Charles J. Kelley has successfully completed the FBI National Academy’s 297th session. The completion ceremony was held on March 18, 2026, at the FBI Academy located in Quantico, Virginia.
The FBI National Academy is recognized worldwide for its outstanding academic standards and rigorous training program for law enforcement professionals.
Meteorologists issued warnings Thursday that an unprecedented winter heat wave gripping the Southwest will persist through the weekend, following Wednesday’s remarkable temperature milestone in a small California desert town.
The community of North Shore, California, registered 108 degrees (42.2 Celsius) on Wednesday, matching the nation’s highest March temperature first recorded in Rio Grande City, Texas, back in 1954. Meanwhile, the desert town of Thermal, located northeast of San Diego, could see temperatures soar to 110 degrees (43.3 C) on Friday.
Even nighttime brought little respite from the extreme conditions. Phoenix established a new overnight low temperature record for March 19th, with thermometers never dropping below 69 degrees (20.5 C), the National Weather Service reported. Thursday’s daytime temperatures in Phoenix are expected to peak around 105 degrees (40.5 C), with Friday potentially bringing even more intense heat. “For some perspective, the average first 105 degree day of the year normally occurs on May 22nd,” the weather service noted. The last occurrence of triple-digit March temperatures in Phoenix happened nearly four decades ago.
Multiple cities across the region shattered temperature records on Wednesday, experiencing their most intense March heat in 40 years, weather officials confirmed.
Las Vegas soared to 99 degrees (37.2 C), obliterating its previous March benchmark of 93 degrees (33.8 C) established in 2022.
In downtown Los Angeles, thermometers climbed to 94 degrees (34.4 C), surpassing the former daily record of 87 degrees (30.5 C) from 1997.
The resort city of Palm Springs, California, registered 104 degrees (40 C), equaling its warmest March temperature previously recorded in 1966.
The Southwest region will experience temperatures 20 to 30 degrees higher than typical March averages through the remainder of the week before conditions begin moderating Sunday. Weather forecasters predict numerous cities throughout the area may witness their earliest 100-degree (37.8-plus C) days in recorded history.
NEWARK, Del. – The Blue Hens men’s soccer team at the University of Delaware has announced their upcoming spring 2026 season schedule, according to an announcement made Thursday by head coach Tommy McMenemy.
The spring schedule release marks the next phase of preparation for the UD soccer program as they gear up for the 2026 season. Coach McMenemy shared details of the team’s planned matches and training schedule for the spring portion of their athletic calendar.
The University of Delaware soccer program continues to build momentum as they prepare for competitive play in the coming season. Further details about specific match dates and opponents are expected to be released as the spring season approaches.
The Sussex County Farm Bureau recently served as a sponsor for a customer appreciation event organized by Seaford Hoober Inc. The local Case IH equipment dealer has maintained a strong relationship with the Delaware Farm Bureau and actively supports the agricultural community throughout the region.
Given that many of Hoober’s clientele are also members of the Farm Bureau, the gathering provided an ideal setting for SCFB representatives to express gratitude to existing members while introducing the advantages of Farm Bureau membership to potential new members.
The celebration also showcased the collaborative relationship between Case IH and the Farm Bureau organization. As a significant Farm Bureau partner, Case IH provides members with discounts reaching up to $800 on qualifying Case IH machinery and equipment.
Additional details about the Case IH member discount program can be found at https://defb.org/membership/member-benefits-2/.
Salisbury municipal workers will conduct water line replacement operations Thursday, March 19, focusing on the 400 block of Loblolly Lane as part of the city’s continuing water infrastructure maintenance program.
Traffic will be prohibited on Loblolly Lane between Frederick Avenue and Orchard Circle while crews perform the service line work. City officials anticipate completion by approximately 3:30 p.m., assuming favorable weather conditions and no unexpected complications arise.
Utility locating services and Central Alarm systems have received proper notification regarding the scheduled work.
City officials expressed gratitude for residents’ cooperation during the temporary road restriction.
Agricultural producers gathered with state lawmakers on February 27 and March 9 during legislative breakfast meetings hosted by the New Castle County and Kent County Farm Bureaus. At these sessions, farming community members discussed their experiences with recent property tax reassessments, declining profit margins, and growing development pressure.
The legislative breakfast meetings provide a platform for Delaware Farm Bureau (DEFB) members and elected officials to have direct discussions about agricultural challenges while also recognizing lawmakers for their ongoing support of farming interests.
A recurring topic during both gatherings centered on farmers’ financial difficulties in supporting their families. While they remain passionate about agriculture and want to continue their operations, many expressed uncertainty about the long-term viability of farming in Delaware.
DEFB President Bill Powers discussed the recent property reassessment’s complicated impact. While some property owners received tax reductions, others faced such severe increases that they’re contemplating selling their farms. Powers stressed the importance of supporting agriculture, Delaware’s leading industry, and voiced DEFB’s backing for Senate Bill 35, which would establish fair taxation for farm production structures instead of treating them like residential properties.
Multiple farmers provided personal testimonies about dramatic tax hikes. At the New Castle County Farm Bureau breakfast, Matt Linton from Highland Orchards in Wilmington described how his small farm parcel’s tax obligation jumped to almost $35,000. He explained they had to retain legal counsel to challenge the unaffordable assessment, creating additional expenses while operating with narrow profit margins.
Tom Puglisi from Puglisi Egg Farms in Middletown reported his property’s reassessed value exceeded the previous amount by more than twelve times. After following the official appeal procedures, he stated that Tyler Technologies and New Castle County repeatedly dismissed their concerns. Puglisi mentioned that he, along with many others, devoted substantial resources to fighting the reassessment and continues awaiting resolution.
Jay Baxter and fellow farmers discussed the challenges of staying profitable while input costs keep climbing. They described how agricultural producers typically buy supplies at retail prices but sell products at wholesale rates, making family support difficult. Baxter urged other farmers to tell their stories and communicate with neighbors and legislators about agricultural life.
Direct-to-consumer agricultural producers also addressed regulatory challenges. One local intensive agriculture farm operator explained being subject to the same requirements as much larger operations. This situation creates substantial obstacles when hiring assistance, especially H-2A workers.
The latest U.S. Drought Monitor outlook shows a split pattern across the Mid-Atlantic, with some areas seeing improvement after recent rainfall, while others continue to dry out amid persistent warmth and long-term precipitation deficits.
Rain Brings Limited Relief to Northern Areas
Across the northern Mid-Atlantic, including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and parts of Maryland, a widespread 0.5 to 2 inches of rainfall over the past week has helped improve drought conditions in some locations.
Locally higher amounts, topping 2 to 3 inches, were recorded in central and northeastern Pennsylvania and surrounding areas. This rainfall helped boost groundwater levels and ease longer-term precipitation deficits, allowing for modest improvement in drought classifications.
However, the relief has been somewhat tempered by unseasonably warm temperatures, which ran 9 to 12 degrees above normal across much of the region. These warmer conditions increase evaporation rates, limiting how effective the rainfall is in fully recharging soil moisture.
Drying Concerns Growing to the South
Farther south into Virginia and the broader Southeast, drought conditions are becoming more concerning.
In west-central Virginia, severe drought has expanded as soil moisture remains depleted and longer-term rainfall deficits continue to worsen. The same above-normal temperatures have only accelerated drying, increasing stress on soon to be planeted vegetation and water resources.
While isolated rainfall in parts of North Carolina brought minor improvement, it was not enough to significantly change the broader dry pattern.
Wider Regional Context
The Mid-Atlantic sits between two contrasting regimes:
To the north: Periodic storm systems are providing temporary relief
To the south:Persistent dryness and heat are driving worsening drought conditions
This transition zone places areas like Maryland and Delaware in a more uncertain position, where short-term rainfall may help, but longer-term deficits remain a concern heading into the spring growing season.
What This Means Going Forward
Despite recent rainfall in some areas, the overall trend suggests that consistent, widespread precipitation will be needed to fully reverse developing drought conditions.
If the current pattern of above-normal temperatures and inconsistent rainfall continues, parts of the Mid-Atlantic could see further drought expansion as we move deeper into spring.
For now, the region remains in a fragile balance, with improving conditions in some locations, but increasing drought pressure just to the south that could easily expand northward in the coming weeks.
Students across Delaware now have more time to showcase their artistic talents in the state’s public transit poster competition.
The Delaware Transit Corporation has pushed back the submission deadline for their yearly student art contest to April 17th, giving young artists extra time to complete their entries.
This year’s theme centers around “DARTLEY’s Passport to Discovery: Where Could DART Take You?” The competition encourages students to use their creativity while featuring DARTLEY, the transit system’s mascot and travel companion.
The contest asks participants to envision the many destinations and opportunities that become accessible through Delaware’s public bus system. Students are encouraged to think about how public transportation opens doors to new experiences and adventures throughout the state.
The extended deadline gives Delaware students additional weeks to develop their poster designs and submit their artwork for consideration in the statewide competition.
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Three prominent Maryland officials are set to launch the annual Chesapeake Oyster Week celebration this Friday, March 20, at the Guinness Open Gate Brewery.
Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks will join Maryland Secretary of Natural Resources Josh Kurtz and Oyster Recovery Partnership Executive Director Ward Slacum for the official kickoff event of the 2026 Chesapeake Oyster Week.
The ceremonial launch will take place at the popular Guinness Open Gate Brewery location, marking the beginning of a week-long celebration of the Chesapeake Bay’s oyster industry and recovery efforts.
Delaware State Police have taken a Georgetown resident into custody on multiple felony drug charges following an incident that included a foot chase and brief escape.
Authorities arrested 26-year-old Jayson Willin on March 17, 2026, after members of the Sussex County Governor’s Task Force and Probation and Parole officers went to the 500 block of Union Drive seeking the probationer, who had an outstanding warrant for breach of release. When law enforcement spotted Willin and tried to make contact, he fled on foot before officers quickly captured him. A search revealed he was carrying roughly 6.97 grams of cocaine, about 1.45 grams of crack cocaine, around 0.52 grams of methamphetamine, a buprenorphine and naloxone strip, a digital scale, and drug-related equipment. After being secured in a probation officer’s vehicle, Willin managed to exit the car but was swiftly caught again. Officers conducting an administrative search of Willin’s residence discovered an additional 19.96 grams of cocaine, baking soda, a digital scale, and a Pyrex cup and spoon containing white powder residue.
Following his arrest, Willin was transported to Troop 4 and processed on numerous charges before appearing before Justice of the Peace Court 3. He was then sent to Sussex Correctional Institution under a $78,200 secured bond.
The charges against Willin include: Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Tier 3 (Felony); Possession of a Controlled Substance, Tier 3 (Felony); two counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance (Felony); Unlawful to Knowingly Operate or Attempt to Operate a Clandestine Laboratory (Felony); three counts of Possess Consume a Controlled or Counterfeit Substance except Human Growth Hormone without a Prescription; three counts of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Resisting Arrest; Attempt to Escape 3rd Degree; and two counts of Breach of Release.
State government workers in Delaware will now have access to comprehensive artificial intelligence education through a newly implemented training program designed to promote ethical technology use across all departments.
The curriculum has been made available via the Delaware Learning Center, the state’s digital education platform, and focuses on teaching employees how to implement AI tools responsibly and effectively in their daily work.
This educational initiative represents Delaware’s commitment to ensuring that as artificial intelligence becomes more prevalent in government operations, state workers are properly equipped with the knowledge and guidelines necessary to use these technologies in ways that serve the public interest while maintaining ethical standards.
The training program addresses the growing need for government employees to understand both the capabilities and limitations of AI systems, helping them make informed decisions about when and how to incorporate these tools into their work processes.
A former Salisbury University football player has created a permanent endowment to benefit his alma mater’s gridiron program and foster better relationships among graduates who once wore the Sea Gulls uniform.
Wayne Clemons, who completed his bachelor’s degree in 1978 and master’s in education in 1981, has launched The Wayne Clemons Football Alumni Fund through the Salisbury University Foundation. The endowed fund will provide ongoing support for the Sea Gulls football team while working to build stronger bonds between current players and program alumni.
The initiative represents a significant commitment to the future of Salisbury University athletics, creating a lasting resource that will continue supporting the football program for years to come.
After a stretch of cooler conditions, temperatures across the Delmarva Peninsula are set to moderate heading into the end of the week, with a brief taste of spring expected this weekend before cooler air returns early next week.
A warm front lifting through the region on Thursday will begin the transition, allowing temperatures to rebound into the upper 40s to low 50s. This marks a return to more seasonable conditions across Delaware and the Eastern Shore of Maryland.
The warming trend continues Friday as a stronger system passes north of the region. Southerly winds will increase, helping push highs into the upper 50s to near 60 degrees across much of Delmarva. A weakening cold front associated with this system will move through Friday night, bringing a period of light rain. Rainfall amounts are expected to remain on the lighter side, generally around a tenth to a quarter inch.
Heading into the weekend, conditions turn even milder. Saturday looks partly to mostly sunny with highs climbing into the low to mid 60s. By Sunday, even warmer air surges into the region ahead of the next approaching system, with temperatures reaching the mid to upper 60s inland. Coastal areas may stay slightly cooler due to onshore flow and the influence of colder ocean waters.
Another cold front is expected to cross Delmarva late Sunday into Sunday night, bringing a second round of scattered rain showers to end the weekend.
Behind this system, cooler Canadian air filters back into the region early next week. While temperatures will drop back closer to seasonal averages, conditions look dry and stable through at least midweek.
Overall, Delmarva will experience a classic early spring pattern: a brief warm-up with passing systems bringing light rain, followed by a return to cooler, quieter weather.
Motorists traveling on State Route 16 near Lewes should expect delays this afternoon as construction crews have temporarily closed the eastbound right lane.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that the lane restriction is in place between Jefferson Road and State Route 1, with work expected to continue until 3 PM today.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and use caution when approaching the construction zone. Traffic is being maintained in the left lane during the work period.
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Maryland agriculture officials announced Thursday they have lifted restrictions on a second quarantine zone in Caroline County following an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza.
The Maryland Department of Agriculture stated that while the original infected farm location continues under quarantine measures, all other agricultural operations within the former restricted zone may now return to normal activities, assuming they fall outside any remaining active control zones.
The announcement represents continued progress in containing the bird flu outbreak that prompted the establishment of multiple control areas in the county as health officials worked to prevent the disease’s spread to other poultry operations.
Delaware Department of Transportation officials are alerting drivers about ongoing construction activity causing periodic lane restrictions on Andries Road.
The roadwork is taking place along the section of Andries Road that runs from Red Mill Road to the cul de sac, where motorists can expect intermittent lane closures throughout the day.
DelDOT indicates the construction-related lane restrictions will remain in effect until 6 PM today. Drivers traveling through the area should plan for potential delays and exercise caution around work zones.
Delaware Department of Transportation crews are conducting flagging operations on St Augustine Road (Route 9) southbound that are causing traffic delays for commuters.
The work zone spans the area between 6th Street and Bayview Road, with operations expected to wrap up by 6PM today.
Drivers are advised to expect delays and consider alternate routes if possible during the remainder of the afternoon commute.
Motorists traveling on Atlanta Road should plan for potential delays as construction crews have closed the northbound shoulder between Tull Drive and Oak Street.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports the shoulder closure is scheduled to remain in effect until 3 PM today. The construction work is taking place along the northbound lanes of Atlanta Road, also known as Route 30.
Drivers are advised to use caution when traveling through the work zone and allow extra time for their commute during the closure period.
Motorists traveling on St Augustine Road, also known as Route 9, should expect delays and lane restrictions due to ongoing flagging operations in the southbound direction.
The traffic control activities are taking place between 6th Street and Bayview Road, with crews expected to wrap up work by 6PM today.
Drivers are advised to plan for extra travel time or consider alternate routes while the flagging operation remains in effect.
Drivers using Pike Creek Road are experiencing intermittent lane restrictions today as construction crews continue their work along the busy corridor.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that lanes are being periodically closed between Kirkwood Highway (Route 2) and Abbey Lane, with the restrictions expected to remain in effect until 5 PM.
Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and exercise caution when navigating through the construction zone. Traffic delays are possible during peak travel periods.
Drivers in Newark should expect significant traffic disruptions this Saturday as the city hosts the First State Half Marathon.
The running event is scheduled for Saturday, March 21, 2026, beginning at 7:30 AM and continuing until roughly 12:30 PM. Race organizers have mapped the course through central and western sections of Newark, which will require multiple street closures throughout the morning hours.
Motorists traveling through the affected areas are advised to exercise extra caution around runners and race volunteers. Officials recommend allowing additional travel time and considering alternate routes when possible during the five-hour event window.
The annual race brings hundreds of participants to Newark’s streets, creating both celebration and transportation challenges for local residents and commuters.
Motorists traveling on Foulk Road are dealing with lane restrictions today as construction crews work in the area.
DelDOT reports that the right lane is currently blocked on Foulk Road between Naamans Road and Grubb Road. The lane closure is expected to remain in place until 3:30 PM this afternoon.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and use caution when passing through the construction zone. Traffic may be slower than usual during the work period.
Drivers traveling through a Delaware neighborhood should expect delays today as construction work has forced the closure of a southbound lane on Peach Tree Run.
According to DelDOT traffic reports, one lane heading south on Peach Tree Run is blocked between Lochmeath Way and Mifflin Meadows Drive while crews complete construction activities.
The lane restriction is scheduled to remain in place until 5 PM today. Motorists are advised to plan alternate routes or allow extra travel time when passing through the area.
DelDOT continues to monitor the situation and will update drivers when the lane fully reopens to traffic.
Motorists traveling on Christina Avenue should expect delays today as construction crews continue work that requires intermittent lane closures.
The affected area spans Christina Avenue, also known as Route 9, from Terminal Avenue to A Street. Delaware Department of Transportation officials report the lane restrictions will remain in place until 5 PM today.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and consider alternate routes if possible to avoid potential delays in the construction zone.
Drivers should expect delays on Janice Road this afternoon as construction crews have shut down one southbound lane between Nassau Road and Coastal Highway (Route 1).
According to DelDOT, the lane restriction affects southbound traffic and will continue through 5 PM today. Motorists are advised to seek alternate routes or allow extra travel time when heading through this area.
The construction work is taking place along the stretch of Janice Road that connects Nassau Road to the busy Coastal Highway corridor.
Good morning, Delmarva! We’re looking at a pleasant Thursday to kick off our spring weather pattern. Expect mostly sunny skies with temperatures climbing to a comfortable 52 degrees this afternoon. A gentle southeast breeze at 5 to 10 mph will keep things feeling fresh across the peninsula.
Tonight, we’ll see partly cloudy conditions as temperatures drop to a chilly 34 degrees – so you’ll definitely want that jacket if you’re heading out after sunset.
Friday brings even better news with mostly sunny skies and a nice warm-up to 62 degrees! It’ll be a perfect day to get outside and enjoy some of that beautiful spring weather we’ve all been waiting for.
However, Friday night tells a different story. We’re tracking light rain moving into the area, with temperatures holding steady around 48 degrees. You might want to move any weekend outdoor prep to Friday afternoon while conditions are still dry.
Overall, it’s shaping up to be a great end to the work week here on the peninsula. Stay tuned for updates, and have a wonderful Thursday!
A small desert town in Southern California experienced scorching 108-degree temperatures on Wednesday, matching the hottest March reading ever documented across the United States.
North Shore, California now shares this extreme weather milestone with Rio Grande City, Texas, which first established the record back in 1954. The blistering heat is occurring during an unprecedented winter heat wave sweeping the Southwest region, with forecasters warning temperatures could climb even higher through the weekend.
Weather experts predict the nearby community of Thermal, California could see temperatures soar to 110 degrees by Friday, potentially setting a new national March record.
Phoenix, Arizona also made weather history Wednesday when thermometers climbed to 101 degrees – the earliest triple-digit reading ever recorded in the desert city. The National Weather Service reports this surpassed the previous early-season record of March 26, 1988, marking only the second time Phoenix has seen 100-degree weather during March.
National Weather Service meteorologist Bryan Lewis described the current conditions as extraordinary. “We’ve broken so many records yesterday and even today we’ve broken quite a few so far,” Lewis stated. He characterized this as among the most remarkable March heat waves ever documented.
Multiple Southwest cities experienced their warmest March day in nearly four decades on Wednesday, according to weather officials.
Las Vegas shattered its March temperature record by reaching 99 degrees, far exceeding the previous high of 93 degrees set in 2022.
Los Angeles recorded 94 degrees downtown, surpassing the former daily record of 87 degrees from 1997.
Palm Springs, California hit 104 degrees, equaling its hottest March temperature originally recorded in 1966.
The National Weather Service forecasts temperatures will remain 20 to 30 degrees higher than typical March averages throughout the Southwest for the remainder of the week before moderating slightly during the weekend. Many additional regional cities are expected to record their earliest 100-degree days in history.
Drivers traveling north on State Route 1 should expect delays this afternoon due to ongoing construction activity.
DelDOT has temporarily shut down the left northbound lane between Painter Drive and State Route 16 to accommodate construction crews. The lane closure is scheduled to remain in effect until 3 p.m. today.
Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and use caution when driving through the work zone area.
Delaware State University’s softball squad experienced a challenging game against their in-state rivals, falling to the University of Delaware Blue Hens in a 9-0 shutout defeat.
The Hornets were unable to generate any offensive momentum throughout the contest, while the Blue Hens dominated both at the plate and in the field to secure the comprehensive victory.
This latest result adds to Delaware State’s ongoing struggles this season as they continue to work toward finding their competitive rhythm against conference opponents.
The team will look to regroup and bounce back in their upcoming games as they seek to turn their season around.
PORTLAND, Ore. – Salisbury University’s women’s tennis squad stretched their winning streak to eight games with a commanding 5-2 victory over the Lewis & Clark River Otters on Wednesday night at the L&C Tennis Dome.
The Sea Gulls dominated the match against their Oregon hosts, securing another solid win in what has become an impressive run of consecutive victories. The team’s performance in Portland demonstrates the continued strength of Salisbury’s women’s tennis program as they build momentum through their current campaign.
With this latest triumph, the Sea Gulls have now won eight matches in a row, showcasing consistent play and team chemistry that has carried them through their recent stretch of competition.
INDIANAPOLIS – After nearly three decades away from the national spotlight, Salisbury University’s men’s swimming team stepped back onto college swimming’s biggest stage Wednesday at the NCAA Division III Swimming & Diving Championships.
The Sea Gulls, currently ranked 18th nationally, competed at the IU Natatorium in Indianapolis, marking their first NCAA championship appearance since 1998. The team faced the pressure of representing their university at the highest level of Division III competition after their 28-year drought from the national meet.
Wednesday’s competition represented the opening day of the championship meet, where the Sea Gulls aimed to make their mark against the nation’s top Division III swimming programs.
INDIANAPOLIS – Salisbury University’s women’s swimming program reached a significant milestone Wednesday at the NCAA Division III Swimming & Diving Championships held at the IU Natatorium.
The Sea Gulls, currently ranked 20th nationally, sent their biggest team ever to compete at the national championships. That decision paid off quickly when swimmer Rowan O’Donoghue earned All-American status, becoming the first member of this year’s squad to achieve the prestigious honor during the competition.
The achievement marks an important moment for the Salisbury program as they continue competing at the national level with their record-sized delegation of athletes.
The Trump administration plans to temporarily display a controversial statue of Delaware’s Caesar Rodney in the nation’s capital, four years after it was removed from Wilmington during nationwide racial justice demonstrations.
The bronze sculpture depicting the Declaration of Independence signer on horseback will be placed in Freedom Plaza, a federal park in downtown Washington DC, for up to six months according to the National Park Service. The installation is part of the current administration’s efforts to mark America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
Rodney, who owned a Delaware plantation, made his historic journey to Philadelphia in 1776 to cast his vote for American independence. However, he also held approximately 200 individuals in bondage throughout his life.
The statue stood in Wilmington for nearly a century before city officials took it down in 2020 following widespread protests after George Floyd’s death. Since its removal, the monument has remained in storage at a warehouse facility.
According to reports from the Washington Post, the decision to display Rodney’s statue aligns with President Trump’s broader initiative to combat what he terms “anti-American” ideology. This campaign has included removing slavery-related exhibits and restoring Confederate monuments, actions that civil rights organizations warn could undo years of social advancement.
The Interior Department’s announcement made no reference to Rodney’s history as a slaveholder or the circumstances surrounding the statue’s removal from Delaware. A department representative stated that showcasing the monument reflects the administration’s dedication to “acknowledging the full breadth of our nation’s history, including the story of Caesar Rodney.”
Rodney battled a severe facial cancer that left him disfigured and ultimately led to his death in 1784. Last year, officials also reinstalled a statue of Confederate General Albert Pike in Washington, which had been toppled during Black Lives Matter demonstrations in 2020.
Traffic is at a complete standstill on Route 13 after a vehicle collision forced authorities to shut down all lanes of traffic at Exit 119.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that both northbound and southbound lanes remain blocked as emergency crews respond to the crash scene.
Drivers traveling through the area should expect significant delays and are encouraged to find alternative routes until the roadway can be safely reopened.
Officials have not yet provided details about the severity of the accident or an estimated timeline for when normal traffic flow will resume.
The University of Delaware softball team bounced back in a big way Wednesday afternoon, shutting out Delaware State 9-0 to break a frustrating five-game skid.
The Blue Hens dominated from start to finish in the March 18, 2026 matchup, blanking their in-state rivals to continue their recent success in the series. With Wednesday’s win, Delaware has now beaten the Hornets in eight straight meetings.
The decisive victory provided much-needed momentum for the Blue Hens, who had been struggling before Wednesday’s breakout performance against Delaware State.
The University of Delaware football program has expanded its coaching staff by bringing on three new analysts in preparation for the upcoming 2026 season, according to an announcement made Wednesday by head coach Ryan Carty.
The Blue Hens have hired Gabriel Mendez to fill an offensive analyst role where he will focus on developing the tight end position. Erik Pratt joins the staff as another offensive analyst and will concentrate his efforts on the offensive line unit. Meanwhile, Anthony Puntolillo comes aboard as a defensive analyst with responsibilities for coaching the linebacker corps.
The additions represent a strategic investment in the program’s analytical capabilities as the Blue Hens continue building toward the 2026 campaign under Carty’s leadership.
NEWARK, Del. – The Fightin’ Blue Hens baseball squad delivered their most dominant showing of the season Wednesday afternoon, crushing St. Joseph’s University 18-0 in a seven-inning contest at Bob Hannah Stadium.
The University of Delaware’s offensive explosion marked the team’s strongest overall performance since the season began, with the Blue Hens completely overwhelming their opponents in the shortened game that ended due to the mercy rule.
The lopsided victory took place on the Blue Hens’ home field in Newark, where the team showcased both powerful hitting and solid pitching to secure the shutout win against St. Joe’s.
Drivers traveling on westbound Pulaski Highway should expect delays due to ongoing construction work that has shut down the left lane in a key stretch of the roadway.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that the left lane closure affects the section of westbound Pulaski Highway running from Wellington Drive to Brookmont Drive. The construction-related restriction is scheduled to remain in place until 6 a.m.
Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and use caution when driving through the work zone area.
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks baseball team traveled to Towson University for a midweek contest but came up short, falling to the Tigers by a score of 8-3.
While the Hawks were unable to secure a victory on the road, there was a notable highlight during the game. Julian Jimenez connected for his first home run of the season, providing a spark for the team despite the challenging outcome.
The loss represents a setback for the Hawks as they continue their season schedule. The team will look to bounce back from this defeat and build momentum moving forward.
Jimenez’s milestone home run serves as a positive development for both the player and the program as they work to establish offensive consistency throughout the campaign.
The Goldey-Beacom Lightning baseball squad traveled to Philadelphia’s East Falls neighborhood for a Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference matchup against Jefferson University on Tuesday, but came up short in a high-scoring contest.
The Lightning were unable to keep pace with their hosts, ultimately falling by a score of 16-10 in the conference battle. The loss came as Goldey-Beacom made the trip to Jefferson’s home field for the league game.
The defeat adds to the Lightning’s conference record as they continue their Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference schedule this season.
Emergency crews and volunteers have now spent a full week fighting devastating wildfires across Nebraska’s western and central regions, with the largest blaze becoming a record-breaker for the state while claiming one life and destroying vast stretches of rangeland.
Coalition spokesman David Boyd explained Wednesday’s changing conditions: “What’s different today is the wind will be less — still, with gusts to 30 miles an hour — but we’re starting to dry out and heat up again. If we get fire, you know, across the containment line, it’s got the potential for rapid spread.”
Governor Jim Pillen offered a brief update while visiting the affected areas, posting on Facebook: “We are making progress, but the fight isn’t over.”
The destruction spans approximately 1,300 square miles across four distinct fires — an area exceeding Rhode Island’s total size. The most devastating blaze, known as the Morrill County fire, has ravaged roughly 1,005 square miles across five counties, extending over 80 miles from Bridgeport in the Nebraska Panhandle eastward to Lake Ogallala, establishing it as Nebraska’s most extensive wildfire on record.
Powerful wind gusts exceeding 60 mph began driving the fires across the region’s terrain last week, feeding on bone-dry prairie vegetation and red cedar groves. The blazes burned without containment for several days until Tuesday, when calmer winds combined with precipitation allowed firefighting teams to begin controlling the flames. Despite this progress, the Morrill County fire remained just 16% contained by Wednesday afternoon.
The Cottonwood fire ranks as the second-largest incident, consuming over 205 square miles after igniting approximately 10 miles southeast of North Platte. Boyd reported this fire reached 40% containment by Wednesday.
Two additional fires burning further north have proven more manageable, covering about 56 square miles and 27 square miles respectively, with both largely contained by Wednesday.
The fires have claimed at least one life — an 86-year-old woman from rural Arthur who died at her residence Thursday while attempting to flee the approaching flames, according to Pillen’s weekend news conference statement.
Numerous buildings have been destroyed, and authorities evacuated at least one residential community near Jeffrey Reservoir in the Cottonwood fire zone since last weekend.
Boyd described the challenging terrain around that evacuation area: “That area is forested with red cedar, and so that holds fire more. That’s a little more complex to fight fire in. We actually have hand crews in there that are cutting fire line in with chainsaws, you know, pretty close to the edge of what was burning.”
The agricultural impact presents long-term concerns for cattle operations throughout the region. Nebraska Agriculture Department Director Sherry Vinton highlighted during Saturday’s news conference that the Morrill County fire zone alone supports grazing for over 35,000 cattle. Agricultural specialists warn that several growing seasons may be required before the scorched land can support livestock grazing again.
Current firefighting strategies involve creating trenches around the fire perimeters and extinguishing remaining hot spots within established boundaries. Officials anticipate significant progress Thursday and Friday when lighter winds are forecast. However, Saturday’s weather outlook brings renewed wildfire risks with stronger winds returning alongside potentially record-breaking temperatures near 90 degrees.
These Nebraska wildfires represent part of a broader pattern of extreme weather affecting the nation this week, including intense heat across California and severe storms that swept the East Coast, resulting in approximately 4,000 flight cancellations nationwide on Monday.
Motorists should expect delays on a busy stretch of Pike Creek Road as construction crews continue their work throughout the day.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that drivers will encounter periodic lane restrictions along Pike Creek Road in the area between Kirkwood Highway (Route 2) and Abbey Lane. These temporary closures are necessary to accommodate ongoing construction activities in the corridor.
The lane restrictions began earlier today and are scheduled to remain in effect until 5:00 PM. Traffic may experience intermittent delays as crews alternate which lanes are available to vehicles.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time when using this route and to consider alternate paths if possible. The construction work is part of ongoing infrastructure improvements in the area.
SALISBURY, Md. – After taking a week off from competition, the Salisbury University men’s lacrosse squad returned to action in dominant fashion, overwhelming Colorado College with a decisive 21-5 victory on Wednesday at Sea Gull Stadium.
The Sea Gulls, currently ranked fifth nationally, showed no signs of rust following their extended break, delivering an offensive masterclass against the visiting Tigers. The lopsided score demonstrated Salisbury’s superior play on both ends of the field throughout the afternoon contest.
The commanding performance reinforced Salisbury’s position as one of the top programs in collegiate lacrosse, as they improved their record with the convincing home victory.
A traffic accident has resulted in the closure of the right lane on northbound Route 7 at Tarry Lane, according to Delaware Department of Transportation officials.
The lane restriction is currently in effect as emergency crews and transportation workers respond to the crash scene. Drivers traveling through the area should anticipate potential delays and may want to seek alternative routes if possible.
DelDOT has not yet provided information about when the lane is expected to reopen or the extent of any injuries involved in the collision.
CHESTERTOWN, Md. – Salisbury University’s nationally-ranked baseball squad delivered a dominant performance against regional rival Washington College on Wednesday, crushing the Shoremen 15-1 in a seven-inning contest at Athey Park.
The Sea Gulls, currently ranked fifth in the nation, showcased their offensive power throughout the afternoon matchup against their fellow Delmarva Peninsula competitors. The lopsided victory demonstrated the strength of Salisbury’s baseball program as they overwhelmed Washington College in the shortened game.
The decisive win adds another impressive result to Salisbury University’s season as they continue to establish themselves among the top collegiate baseball programs in the country.
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. — President Donald Trump attended a solemn ceremony at Dover Air Force Base Wednesday as six fallen U.S. service members were returned home to their loved ones. This marks the president’s second attendance at such a ceremony since military conflict with Iran commenced in late February.
The six military personnel lost their lives when their KC-135 aircraft crashed in western Iraq over territory controlled by friendly forces during ongoing operations. Family members requested that Wednesday’s ceremony remain private, with no media present, following standard military protocol.
The ceremony consisted of a photo collection assembled by Associated Press photo editors.
Motorists traveling through the area of Upland Court at S Skyward Drive should plan for potential delays as construction crews continue their work with intermittent lane restrictions.
According to DelDOT traffic officials, the lane closures will affect traffic flow periodically throughout the day, with work expected to wrap up by 5:30 PM this evening.
Drivers are advised to use alternate routes when possible or allow extra travel time when passing through the construction zone.
Spring has officially arrived for Maryland fishing enthusiasts, bringing two highly anticipated species into prime season: yellow perch in tidal waters and trout in freshwater locations. Current spawning migrations for yellow perch are active throughout the region, while trout management areas designated as closure 0 have opened for the season.
Young anglers under 16 will get their special opportunity this Saturday, March 21, when closure 1 trout management waters become available exclusively for youth fishing. The general trout season opener for all anglers is scheduled for March 28.
Maryland has received recognition as the nation’s second-best fishing destination according to FishingBooker’s latest annual ranking, climbing significantly from seventh place in 2025 and eleventh in 2024. The website cited consistent angler demand, exceptional access to bays, rivers, tidal systems, and Atlantic coastal waters, plus cost-effective fishing opportunities as key factors. According to their analysis, approximately one-fifth of Maryland consists of water, creating outstanding prospects for both saltwater and freshwater fishing.
The 2026 striped bass season schedule has been established for Chesapeake Bay and tributary waters, with complete details available on the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website.
Weekly Outlook: March 18-24
Rising temperatures and longer daylight hours continue gradually warming Chesapeake Bay waters, encouraging gamefish to migrate toward spawning areas. Monitoring buoy data shows main Bay and river mouth surface temperatures remaining in the mid-40s, while smaller rivers and streams register around 50 degrees. Protected coves and downwind locations on sunny days will reach the mid-50s more quickly, creating ideal conditions for yellow perch as they move upstream from winter holding areas to prepare for spawning in Maryland waters over the coming weeks.
Maryland rivers and streams should experience typical flow levels this week. Water clarity throughout most Maryland sections of the Bay and rivers should remain normal. The March 18 new moon will generate stronger than average tidal currents throughout the week.
Upper Chesapeake Bay Region
Anglers fishing the lower Susquehanna River and surrounding Bay areas are encountering murky water conditions and significant floating debris from recent Conowingo Dam releases. While these releases have decreased, challenging conditions will persist temporarily. Yellow perch fishing opportunities are currently better in the North East, upper Bush, Sassafras, Chester, and Magothy rivers. Water temperatures reaching 50 degrees have triggered yellow perch movement toward spawning grounds, with white perch following closely behind.
Small minnows hooked through the lips remain the preferred yellow perch bait. Anglers can fish them near bottom using split shot in shallow areas or bottom rigs with adequate weight for deeper, stronger current locations. Small jigs and shad darts enhanced with scent or small minnows work effectively in spawning areas. Grass shrimp or bloodworm pieces provide the best white perch attractants.
Blue catfish activity improves daily as warming temperatures increase their feeding behavior. Channel catfish are also becoming active. Gizzard shad ranks as the top bait choice, though any cut fish or scented offerings will produce results. Blue catfish inhabit every tidal river in the upper bay plus open bay areas, with the Susquehanna mouth and Chester River middle section offering prime fishing locations.
Catch-and-release striped bass fishing continues in the Susquehanna Flats, lower Susquehanna River, and Northeast River until April 1, when these areas close through April 30. During the closure period, fishing is prohibited above the line connecting the Lapidum state boat ramp to Twin Rocks to Tomes Wharf in Port Deposit. Natural Resources Police actively monitor this boundary. The southern boundary extends from Turkey Point to Sandy Point.
Middle Bay Waters
Middle Bay anglers are concentrating on yellow perch and white perch spawning runs this week. Significant yellow perch spawning occurred last week in the Hillsboro section of the Tuckahoe and upper Choptank River near Greensboro, where water temperatures reached approximately 50 degrees. Choptank River anglers near Denton caught early white perch run fish, mostly smaller males, along with numerous 10-inch blue catfish. Shore anglers primarily used bloodworms, while boat and kayak fishermen preferred small jigs with added scent or lip-hooked minnows.
Increasing water temperatures are stimulating blue catfish activity throughout the Choptank River. The stretch from Dover Bridge to Denton provides excellent fishing opportunities, with fish typically holding in deeper channel sections. Sliding sinker rigs with non-offset circle hooks work best for blue catfish, with 8/0 circles being ideal sizes. Gizzard shad makes the premier bait when available, while cut white perch and menhaden also produce well. Chicken liver and scented chicken breast work effectively if kept securely on hooks.
Striped bass anglers can enjoy catch-and-release action in main bay waters this month. Proper fish handling requires minimal contact and preferably keeping fish in water. Planning before fishing helps protect these valuable breeding females. Have cameras ready, use rubber landing nets, support fish horizontally with rubber gloves, work quickly, and return fish immediately to water.
Lower Bay Areas
Lower bay anglers are finding yellow perch in spawning areas including Mattawoman Creek at Mason’s Branch, Wayson’s Corner on the Patuxent, and Marshyhope Creek off the Nanticoke River. Some locations have completed spawning, creating post-spawn yellow perch opportunities. Lip-hooked minnows remain popular, but small jigs and shad darts tipped with minnow pieces or fish attractant provide exciting ultralight tackle action.
White perch are entering these same areas and can be found in Eastern Shore’s Wicomico and Pocomoke rivers. Bottom rigs and small jig heads tipped with grass shrimp or bloodworm pieces work excellently for white perch. Early run fish are typically smaller males, with larger females arriving soon.
Blue catfish fishing remains strong in tidal Potomac, Patuxent, and Nanticoke rivers as warming temperatures end their winter inactivity. Fish are holding in channel areas.
Catch-and-release striped bass action features the largest fish along steep channel edges during their bay migration toward spawning rivers. Jigging and trolling are the most effective techniques. The main Potomac River allows catch-and-release fishing, but all other lower bay tidal rivers remain closed to striped bass targeting.
Freshwater Opportunities
Saturday, March 21 marks youth trout fishing day beginning at 6:30 a.m. in all closure 1 trout management waters for anglers under 16, with a two-fish limit. The traditional opening day for all trout waters occurs March 28, with closure 1 waters receiving fresh stockings for the event.
March provides excellent crappie fishing in both tidal and non-tidal waters statewide. Early spring crappie remain close to submerged structure including sunken brush, fallen trees, submerged wood, and marina docks. Small minnows under slip bobbers are most popular, though marabou jigs suspended under bobbers also work well.
Many crappie anglers employ “spider rigs” – multiple rod holder arrays allowing simultaneous fishing of numerous outfits while drifting near structure. This technique proves very effective in tidal waters. The tidal Potomac near Wilson Bridge, plus the Nanticoke, Wicomico, and Pocomoke rivers offer excellent crappie fishing.
Grass beds in tidal and non-tidal waters are beginning to emerge, so chain pickerel still hold near sunken wood and advanced submerged vegetation. Largemouth bass activity is increasing as they patrol between shallow and deep waters searching for food.
Northern snakeheads are becoming more active, often found in shallow, sunny areas of tidal rivers during afternoon hours. Large minnows under bobbers work well during marginal water temperature periods.
Atlantic Ocean and Coastal Waters
Ocean City waters remain near 40 degrees this week. Surf fishing produces mainly spiny dogfish and clearnose skates. Inside the inlet, some catch-and-release striped bass action occurs near the Route 90 Bridge, though most fish fall short of the 28-inch minimum length while providing entertainment.
Offshore wreck and reef sites offer excellent tautog fishing, with party boat anglers landing substantial fish, many reaching double-digit weights. The daily tautog limit remains four fish at 16-inch minimum length through May 15.
Drivers using Gerald Drive are experiencing intermittent lane restrictions today as construction crews work along the roadway.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that the lane closures affect the stretch of Gerald Drive running from Powderhorn Drive to Ralph Road.
Officials indicate the construction-related lane restrictions are temporary and are expected to conclude by 5:00 PM today.
Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time when using this route and to exercise caution while passing through the work zone.
Delaware Department of Transportation officials have announced a temporary shoulder closure on Ingram Branch Road that will affect traffic patterns through this afternoon.
The shoulder closure is in effect along the stretch of Ingram Branch Road that runs between Whiteleysburg Road (Route 59) and Layton Corners Road (Route 296). DelDOT expects the closure to remain in place until 4:00 PM today.
Motorists traveling through the area should exercise caution and expect possible delays while the shoulder work is being completed.
Northampton County in Virginia is currently accepting applications for tourism infrastructure grants, with the submission deadline now in effect.
The grant program aims to support local tourism development initiatives and infrastructure improvements throughout the county. These funding opportunities are designed to enhance visitor experiences and boost the local tourism economy.
Interested applicants should ensure their submissions meet all program requirements and are submitted by the specified deadline. The grants represent an investment in the county’s tourism sector and economic development efforts.
The University of Delaware women’s lacrosse squad is gearing up to begin their Atlantic Sun Conference schedule this weekend with a pair of road games.
The Blue Hens will hit the road to take on Austin Peay and Lindenwood as they launch their conference campaign. This marks the start of ASUN play for Delaware’s women’s lacrosse program.
The team will face both opponents away from home as they begin what could be a crucial stretch of their season. Conference play often determines postseason positioning and championship opportunities for collegiate programs.
Delaware enters ASUN competition looking to make their mark in conference standings. The weekend doubleheader will test the Blue Hens against two different opponents in quick succession.
...NWS Damage Survey for 03/16/26 New Windsor, MD Tornado...
.New Windsor, MD Tornado...
Rating: EF-0
Estimated Peak Wind: 80 mph
Path Length /statute/: 1.68 miles
Path Width /maximum/: 150 yards
Fatalities: 0
Injuries: 0
Start Date: 03/16/2026
Start Time: 12:02 PM EDT
Start Location: 2 SSE Linwood / Carroll County / MD
Start Lat/Lon: 39.53609 / -77.12975
End Date: 03/11/2026
End Time: 12:05 PM EDT
End Location: 2 ESE Linwood / Carroll County / MD
End Lat/Lon: 39.55740 / -77.11459
Survey Summary:
A line embedded supercell developed and tracked over north-central
Maryland during the late morning into early afternoon hours on
Monday, March 16, 2026. This storm was part of a much larger system
that brought multiple rounds of severe weather to much of the
eastern United States.
Rotation was evident within the storm around 2000 to 3000 feet above
ground on the KLWX WSR-88D radar, prompting a Tornado Warning as the
storm moved from Frederick into Carroll County. The FAA TDWR TBWI
showed this rotation quickly strengthen and lower to below 2000 feet
just to the southeast of the mid-level mesocyclone being sampled by
the KLWX WSR-88D. The tightened lower-level rotation persisted on
TBWI for 1 to 2 minutes after the mid-level rotation on KLWX had
notably weakened.
It was beneath the tightening low-level rotation at around 12:02 PM
EDT that the first evidence of tornadic damage was found. Several
trees in a weakened state just southeast of the intersection of
Hawks Hill Road and Beth Way snapped near the trunk, and fell toward
the east, west, and north. The parent storm motion was northeast.
The trees that fell were only around 100 feet apart at most, with an
undisturbed landscape around it indicating an initially very narrow
vortex perhaps no larger than about 25 to 50 yards in width.
The tornado then crossed through open fields, lifting the south end
of a long irrigation system and rolling it about 100 feet toward the
north just east of Winters Church Road.
After this, the circulation continued northeastward crossing several
more fields and groves of trees, as well as Little Pipe Creek. The
next visible and accessible damage was noted as the tornado
approached and crossed MD-75 Green Valley Road near the intersection
with MD-84 Union Bridge Road. Here, a couple dozen trees fell in
opposing directions (southeast, northeast, east, northwest, and
north). One large tree toppled onto power lines taking down a power
pole and briefly trapping a motorist between the downed wires, pole,
and downed trees. Several large pine trees at the intersection had
their tops sheared off, falling toward the north, northeast, and
east. Two trees on a hill just east of Mill Dale Lane fell toward
the north-northwest, likely just outside the circulation but in its
inflow as it passed across MD-84 Union Bridge Road. Meanwhile, an
outbuilding just to the southwest of MD-75 Green Valley Road
suffered a near total roof collapse, with the west-northwest facing
walls partially collapsed inward. Similar to the trees off Mill Dale
Lane, this outbuilding may have been just outside the tornadic
circulation, with the damage a result of inflow winds into the
vortex as it passed. It is at this point where the tornado reached
its largest and strongest, with an estimated path width of 150 yards
and peak winds of 80 mph. Despite the extent of the damage, only
about one-third of the trees in its path at this point sustained
visible damage, with no other visible damage to other outbuildings
or the farmhouse at the nearby farm.
A video taken from the Carroll County Emergency Operations Center
showed a swiftly rotating lowering, likely the tornado in progress
as it approached and crossed the intersection of MD-75 Green Valley
Road and MD-84 Union Bridge Road, just northwest of their facility.
Although trees in the foreground obstructed the view and could not
confirm ground contact, the video was directly coincident with radar
and the observed (convergent) damage.
A few trees had their tops snapped off just northeast of MD-84 Union
Bridge Road, but no visible damage was noted beyond this point. It
is possible, based on the rotation signature on TBWI, that the
tornado could have persisted for up to another mile over open
fields, but the path length in this survey can only confidently
conclude a path up to this point, approximately 1.68 miles in length.
The National Weather Service Baltimore/Washington Weather Forecast
Office thanks Carroll County Office of Emergency Management for
their assistance. Additionally, thanks to the trained spotters,
media, and public that sent in reports of damage.
EF Scale: The Enhanced Fujita Scale classifies tornadoes into the
following categories:
EF0.........65 to 85 mph
EF1.........86 to 110 mph
EF2.........111 to 135 mph
EF3.........136 to 165 mph
EF4.........166 to 200 mph
EF5.........>200 mph
A powerful line of storms swept across the Delmarva region Monday evening, leaving behind a trail of damage now confirmed by the National Weather Service as a mix of tornadoes and destructive straight-line winds.
According to storm survey teams from the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, New Jersey, at least two EF-1 tornadoes touched down in the region, along with several corridors of intense wind damage reaching up to 100 mph.
One tornado was confirmed near Ridgely, Maryland, where winds between 90 and 100 mph carved a nearly one-mile path. Significant damage was reported, including a barn that was completely destroyed, debris thrown hundreds of yards, and numerous large trees uprooted or snapped.
A second EF-1 tornado was confirmed near Frederica, Delaware, with a shorter path of about 0.7 miles. Damage in this area was primarily to trees, along with a shed that was destroyed after being struck by a falling tree.
In addition to the tornadoes, multiple areas experienced intense straight-line wind damage, some of which rivaled tornado strength.
Photo from Magickal Mal
Near Camden, Delaware, winds were estimated between 90 and 100 mph, where several trees were snapped and fell onto mobile homes. One injury was reported in this area.
Further west in Queen Anne’s County, Maryland, a large swath of wind damage stretched nearly two miles from near Sudlersville toward Millington Road. Here, winds between 80 and 90 mph snapped power poles, tore metal roofing from farm buildings, and caused widespread tree damage.
Another concentrated pocket of wind damage was observed just south of Ridgely, Maryland, where winds up to 90 mph destroyed part of a farm outbuilding and scattered debris across nearby fields.
Outside of these hardest-hit areas, much of the region experienced widespread wind damage in the 60 to 70 mph range, consistent with the passage of a strong cold front.
Fortunately, no fatalities were reported, though the storms serve as a reminder of how quickly severe weather can intensify across the Mid-Atlantic.
The National Weather Service notes that this information remains preliminary and could be refined further as additional analysis is completed.
Maryland officials have greenlit more than $747,000 in state funding to support recreational improvements and environmental conservation projects spanning four counties, including areas on the Eastern Shore.
The three-member Board of Public Works, consisting of Governor Wes Moore, Treasurer Dereck E. Davis, and Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman, authorized the grants from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources during their March 18, 2026 meeting.
The largest single allocation directs $200,000 through the Community Parks and Playgrounds Program toward renovating athletic courts and playground equipment at Berwyn Heights Elementary School in Prince George’s County. These upgraded facilities will serve both students and community members.
In Talbot County, officials approved $3,000 for installing a specialized communication board at the Home Run Baker Sports Complex. The board will feature visual aids including photographs, symbols, and illustrations designed to help individuals with communication challenges participate more fully in recreational activities.
Environmental conservation efforts received substantial backing through two separate easement acquisitions. Somerset County will benefit from $125,000 allocated for securing a permanent conservation easement within the Dividing Creek Rural Legacy Area through the Rural Legacy program. This protection will safeguard working farmland that supports the regional economy while maintaining 1,500 feet of scenic roadway views.
The largest conservation investment totals $420,000 for acquiring a Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program easement covering 59 acres in Queen Anne’s County. This project will establish 2,000 feet of forested buffers along a waterway that feeds into Southeast Creek within the Chester River watershed, helping maintain water quality standards.
The Community Parks and Playgrounds Program has channeled over $90 million into more than 900 recreational projects statewide since its inception in 2002, providing competitive grants to help local governments upgrade existing parks and develop new recreational spaces.
Maryland’s Rural Legacy Program, established in 1997, focuses on preserving large-scale working landscapes across 36 designated areas throughout the state. The program recently earned national recognition from the American Farmland Trust alongside the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation.
The Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program’s permanent easement component, active since 2009, works with voluntary landowners to maintain conservation practices beyond the expiration of federal contracts.
Complete details regarding all approved funding items can be found in the official Board of Public Works meeting documentation from March 18, 2026.
