Good morning, Delmarva! We’re starting this Friday with steady rain across the peninsula, but the good news is it won’t last all day. Expect rain to continue through this morning and into the early afternoon before tapering off around 2 PM. We’ll see cloudy skies with temperatures reaching a mild 54 degrees, helped along by gentle southeast winds at 5 to 10 mph. You can count on getting wet if you’re out and about – we have a 100% chance of rain with accumulations between a quarter and half inch possible.
Tonight brings much better news as skies begin to clear! We’ll drop to a chilly 37 degrees under partly cloudy conditions – perfect weather to cozy up indoors.
Saturday looks much more pleasant with partly sunny skies and a high near 49 degrees. It’s shaping up to be a nice day for any weekend plans you might have. Saturday night will be mostly cloudy with lows around 33, and we might see some light rain returning late.
Stay dry out there today, Delmarva, and have a wonderful weekend!
Motorists should expect delays along a busy stretch of Ogletown Stanton Road as repair crews work to fix malfunctioning traffic signals.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that lanes are being temporarily closed on an intermittent basis at the intersection of Ogletown Stanton Road and Hygeia Drive while technicians address signal equipment issues.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time when passing through the area and to exercise caution around work zones. The lane restrictions will continue until repairs are completed.
Delaware’s poultry industry is grappling with increasingly sophisticated challenges when it comes to creating profitable feed formulations for their flocks. What was once a straightforward process has evolved into a complex juggling act that requires precise calculations and strategic decision-making.
Poultry nutritionists across the region are working to navigate an environment filled with unpredictable factors that directly impact their bottom line. Raw material quality varies significantly from shipment to shipment, while market prices continue to experience dramatic swings that can affect profitability overnight.
Industry professionals are discovering that success in today’s market requires more than traditional approaches. The key to maintaining strong financial returns while ensuring birds receive optimal nutrition lies in employing sophisticated analytical tools combined with carefully selected feed enhancement products.
Adding to the complexity, poultry operations must now balance traditional performance metrics with evolving environmental responsibility standards and changing production objectives that reflect consumer demands and regulatory requirements.
For Delaware’s significant poultry sector, which plays a crucial role in the state’s agricultural economy, mastering these feed optimization strategies has become essential for remaining competitive in an increasingly challenging marketplace.
A University of Delaware swimmer has made history by becoming the first woman from the Blue Hens program to earn a spot at the NCAA Swimming & Diving Championships.
Victoria Novinskiy achieved this groundbreaking accomplishment by capturing first place in the 100-Yard Butterfly during competition at the 2026 Atlantic Sun Swimming & Diving Championships taking place in Orlando, Florida.
Her victory not only secured her individual qualification for the national championships but also helped propel the Delaware women’s swimming and diving squad to the top of the team standings after two days of competition at the conference meet.
This marks a significant milestone for the University of Delaware women’s swimming and diving program, as no female athlete had previously qualified for the NCAA’s premier swimming competition in the program’s history.
ORLANDO, Fla. – History was made for the University of Delaware men’s swimming and diving program as Kade Snyder captured the institution’s first-ever Atlantic Sun Conference individual championship.
Snyder’s triumph came in the men’s 100-meter butterfly event during day two of the conference championships, marking a breakthrough moment for the Blue Hens since they joined the Atlantic Sun Conference.
The victory represents a significant milestone for Delaware’s aquatic programs, as no male swimmer or diver from the university had previously claimed an individual title at the conference level since becoming members of the Atlantic Sun.
Six Delaware athletes total earned spots on the podium during the second day of competition, showcasing the program’s depth and competitive strength at the championship meet in Florida.
Delaware Department of Transportation officials have implemented a temporary speed reduction on Interstate 495, lowering the maximum allowable speed to 55 miles per hour due to current weather conditions affecting the roadway.
The speed restriction has been put into place as a safety precaution for drivers traveling along the interstate corridor. DelDOT monitoring systems indicate that weather conditions warrant the reduced speed limit to help prevent accidents and ensure safer travel.
Motorists are advised to exercise additional caution while driving on I-495 and to observe the temporary 55 mph speed limit currently in effect. The speed restriction will remain in place until weather conditions improve and normal speed limits can be safely restored.
As spring approaches, a state climatologist is closely tracking water levels in major river systems across the Midwest region. Justin Glisan, who serves as Iowa’s state climatologist, reports that northern states have received sufficient winter precipitation to potentially increase stream flows in the coming months.
“There is snowpack on the ground in parts of Minnesota and Wisconsin which will feed into the Mississippi Basin,” Glisan explained while discussing the current conditions affecting river systems.
The accumulated snow in these northern areas is expected to contribute to water levels as temperatures warm and melting begins, though moisture distribution has been inconsistent throughout the broader Midwest region this winter season.
Delaware farmers and agricultural producers across the country could be in for some relief in 2026, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s top economic forecaster.
Chief Economist Justin Benavidez projects that American agriculture will face somewhat improved conditions next year, with commodity prices expected to climb modestly while the costs of supplies and workforce expenses level off.
The forecast suggests that after facing challenging economic pressures, farmers may finally see market conditions shift in their favor as key crop prices show signs of strengthening and the expense of running agricultural operations becomes more manageable.
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Maryland’s State Soil Conservation Committee has scheduled a virtual public meeting for Thursday, February 19, 2026, running from 9:30 a.m. until noon.
The online session will be open to anyone interested in attending and will center on discussions about soil conservation initiatives and water quality programs throughout the state.
Those who wish to participate in the virtual meeting can obtain access information by reaching out to Loretta Collins, who serves as Executive Secretary for the State Soil Conservation Committee. Collins can be contacted via email at [email protected].
Maryland’s committee dedicated to addressing invasive plant species will convene for a scheduled session on April 28th, 2026, according to a recent announcement.
The meeting will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Maryland Department of Agriculture headquarters, specifically in room 114. Officials are offering flexibility for attendees by providing both in-person participation and virtual access options.
Those seeking additional details about the upcoming session can reach out to David Grow via email at [email protected] for more information.
ANNAPOLIS, MD – A virtual meeting has been scheduled by the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners’ Veterinary Technician Committee for March 12th, 2026, beginning at 7:00 PM.
Committee members will focus on reviewing applications for veterinary technician licenses, including both VTNE and RVT certifications. The group will also examine current requirements for various licensing pathways in the veterinary technician field.
Those seeking additional details about the upcoming meeting can reach out to Executive Director Nathaniel Boan by calling 410-841-5862 or sending an email to [email protected].
ANNAPOLIS, MD – Veterinary professionals and stakeholders can mark their calendars for an upcoming regulatory meeting scheduled for early April in Maryland’s capital city.
The Maryland State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners has announced they will convene on April 2nd, 2026, beginning at 10:30 in the morning. The session will take place at the Maryland Department of Agriculture headquarters in Annapolis.
Board members plan to address several key items during their gathering, including the review and approval of new license applications, evaluation of continuing education requirements, and discussion of routine administrative matters.
Those seeking additional details about the upcoming meeting can reach out to Executive Director Nathaniel Boan, who can be contacted by phone at 410-841-5862 or via email at [email protected].
A motor vehicle collision has forced authorities to completely shut down eastbound Valley Road at its intersection with Limestone Road (Route 7), according to the Delaware Department of Transportation.
DelDOT officials are urging motorists to find alternative routes while emergency responders work at the crash site. The closure is affecting traffic flow in the area as crews address the incident.
No additional details about the severity of the crash or potential injuries have been released at this time. Drivers should expect delays and plan accordingly until the roadway can be safely reopened.
Delaware State University’s College of Business recently wrapped up its fourth annual Black Male Initiative Conference, continuing a tradition aimed at supporting and empowering Black male students in their academic and professional journeys.
The conference represents an ongoing effort by the Dover-based university to address educational and career development needs within the Black male student population, particularly in business-related fields.
This marks the fourth consecutive year that DSU’s business college has organized this specialized conference, demonstrating the institution’s sustained commitment to diversity and inclusion initiatives.
The Black Male Initiative Conference serves as a platform for networking, mentorship, and professional development opportunities specifically tailored to Black male students pursuing business education at the historically black university.
The University of Delaware Blue Hens football program announced Thursday that they’ve brought back one of their own to join the coaching staff. Paul Worrilow, who graduated from UD in 2013 and went on to captain an NFL team, has been named as a new assistant coach.
Head coach Ryan Carty revealed that Worrilow will be responsible for coaching the bandit linebackers. This marks the former Blue Hen’s second time working with the Newark-based program in a coaching capacity.
The addition brings professional football experience to the Blue Hens’ coaching roster, as Worrilow brings his background as both a UD graduate and former NFL team captain to help develop the next generation of Delaware football players.
NEWARK, Del. – The University of Delaware women’s golf squad prepares to launch their spring competition schedule this weekend with a trip to Georgia for the Reynolds Lake Oconee Invitational, an event hosted by Mercer University.
Leading the charge for the Fightin’ Blue Hens will be first-year standout Rhianna Gooneratne, who aims to carry forward the momentum from an outstanding autumn campaign that marked the beginning of her college golf journey.
The talented newcomer demonstrated impressive skills during her initial collegiate season and now serves as a cornerstone player for Delaware’s lineup as they embark on their spring tournament slate.
The University of Delaware ice hockey team saw their season come to a crushing conclusion following an overtime defeat in the opening round of the Atlantic Hockey Association Championship tournament.
The Blue Hens battled through regulation time but were unable to secure victory when the game extended into the extra period, ending their hopes of advancing deeper into the postseason tournament.
The loss marks the end of another chapter for Delaware hockey as they look ahead to rebuilding for next season’s campaign.
The University of Delaware baseball squad is preparing for a demanding road trip as they head to Starkville, Mississippi, for a three-game series against the fourth-ranked Mississippi State Bulldogs.
The Blue Hens will face a significant test against one of college baseball’s elite programs when they take the field in Starkville. The series represents a major challenge for Delaware as they go up against a highly-ranked SEC opponent on their home turf.
This road series will provide valuable experience for the Blue Hens program as they compete against top-tier competition in a hostile environment. The matchup against Mississippi State offers Delaware an opportunity to measure themselves against one of the nation’s premier college baseball teams.
Delaware State Police are working to piece together details from a shooting incident that unfolded Wednesday evening at a Claymont area gas station.
Authorities were called to the Sunoco station at 3615 Philadelphia Pike around 11:50 p.m. on February 18, 2026, following reports of gunfire. According to investigators, a gray sedan pulled up to one of the gas pumps, and the person behind the wheel went inside the convenience store. Shortly afterward, a second car arrived with additional occupants who also went into the store.
Police say there was some kind of confrontation between the groups inside the business. The sedan’s driver then rushed back to their car. As the other two people came out of the store, someone in the gray vehicle opened fire with a handgun, shooting several rounds in their direction. All parties had left the area before officers arrived on scene.
While no one was hurt in the shooting, the convenience store sustained damage from the gunfire.
The case remains under active investigation by Delaware State Police detectives. Officials are asking anyone who saw what happened or has information about the incident to reach out to Detective B. Timmons at (302) 365-8434. Tips can also be shared through private messages to the Delaware State Police Facebook page or by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 1-800-847-3333.
Anyone affected by crime or sudden loss can access support services around the clock through the Delaware State Police Victim Services Unit and Delaware Victim Center by calling 1-800-VICTIM-1 (1-800-842-8461) or emailing [email protected].
A Wilmington woman is now facing serious criminal charges after Newark Police concluded a lengthy investigation into a string of retail thefts that cost local businesses thousands of dollars.
The Newark Police Department launched their investigation at the start of 2024 when they began tracking a pattern of shoplifting cases involving the same individual. Through their investigative work, officers documented instances where a female suspect was caught on surveillance stealing merchandise from various retail locations throughout the area.
The cumulative value of the stolen goods reached into the thousands of dollars, prompting authorities to pursue felony-level charges against the suspect. The investigation spanned several months as police worked to build a comprehensive case linking the woman to multiple theft incidents.
Newark Police have not yet released the suspect’s identity or specified which retail establishments were targeted during the alleged crime spree. The case represents a significant retail theft investigation for the department, given the substantial monetary losses involved.
The arrest concludes what authorities describe as a thorough investigation into organized retail theft activity in the Newark area. Police continue to work with local businesses to address ongoing concerns about shoplifting and retail crime.
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks men’s volleyball team claimed victory over Roberts Wesleyan in a 3-1 match, marking their second consecutive triumph against the visiting team.
This latest win continues the Hawks’ successful streak, having now defeated Roberts Wesleyan in two consecutive encounters. The team demonstrated strong performance throughout the match to secure the victory at home.
The Hawks’ consistent play against Roberts Wesleyan shows the team’s ability to maintain their competitive edge in repeat matchups.
Rehoboth Beach city officials are working to clarify confusion surrounding potential modifications to business licensing fees following recent budget discussions. City representatives emphasize that these proposed adjustments are not intended to address any budget deficit, as the fiscal year 2027 budget is already balanced.
The conversation around modifying business license costs began in 2024 but was temporarily paused while the city developed a comprehensive fee and penalty structure. With that framework now in place, municipal leaders believe this budget cycle is appropriate to revisit these licensing discussions along with other fee considerations.
City officials have provided additional context regarding the proposed modifications:
The suggested changes remain under consideration and have not received final approval. Current business licensing costs span from $35 to $1,500, while the proposed structure would range from $45 to $750. The majority of licenses would see approximately 23% increases, such as a fee rising from $325 to $400.
A significant change involves the elimination of complimentary seasonal parking permits historically provided to licensed businesses. These transferable permits carry a $325 value and have been included at no charge with annual licenses. Under the new proposal, businesses would need to purchase parking permits separately, though they could obtain them at a reduced rate of $260, representing a 20% discount.
The Building and Licensing Department distributed 1,480 complimentary permits to business license holders in 2024, followed by 1,454 permits in 2025. Business license revenue represents approximately 1.9% of General Fund budgeted income and 1.1% of total budgeted revenue.
Any approved fee increases would become effective in January 2027, coinciding with the annual business license renewal period. The review encompasses more than just business licenses, extending to building permits, code enforcement fees, water and sewer charges, convention center pricing, traffic fines, and various code violation penalties.
Seniors in Elkton will need to head to a different location for their regular activities starting next week.
The Elkton Senior Activity Center is moving temporarily to the Elk Room while contractors complete heating and air conditioning repairs at the main facility.
The relocation begins Monday, February 9, 2026, according to Cecil County officials.
All regular programming and activities will continue at the temporary Elk Room location during the construction period.
Maryland watermen will get additional time to harvest oysters this spring after state officials announced a two-week extension to the wild oyster season, pushing the end date from March 31 to April 14.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources approved the extension to assist commercial harvesters who lost valuable work days when frigid January and February temperatures created ice coverage across much of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.
All existing equipment restrictions and daily catch limits will stay in place during the extended period. However, handscraping operations in hand tong areas will not be allowed under the new timeline.
“Maryland’s watermen have faced a difficult oyster season after recent declines in market demand and ice on waterways blocked access to traditional harvest areas,” stated DNR Secretary Josh Kurtz. “This oyster season extension will give them additional opportunities to boost their livelihoods and the local communities where they live. DNR made this decision after extensive conversations with industry stakeholders and scientists. Coordinated oyster restoration and management efforts led by DNR have resulted in a multi-year increase of the overall oyster population in Maryland. We are confident that extending the season will not affect the ongoing resurgence of oysters in the Bay and local rivers.”
The decision comes during a period of remarkable recovery for Maryland’s oyster populations, which have reached their strongest levels in over two decades. Recent state assessments show adult oyster numbers in Maryland waters have more than tripled since 2005, jumping from 2.4 billion to 7.6 billion oysters.
Fall surveys tracking oyster reproduction have documented strong breeding success for the fifth straight year in 2024 and 2025, following an exceptional 2023 season when baby oyster populations reached levels not observed in a generation. Scientists recorded approximately 87 young oysters per bushel in 2023, nearly four times the typical median of 23.6 per bushel.
The State Oyster Committee, made up of representatives from county oyster committees, initially requested the season extension. The chair of DNR’s Tidal Fish Advisory Commission, which includes commercial watermen and seafood dealers, reviewed and endorsed the proposal before forwarding it to DNR leadership.
State crews worked continuously this winter to break ice formations using two different vessels, keeping navigation channels open and helping watermen reach fishing areas. Despite round-the-clock ice-breaking efforts, the severe cold caused waters to refreeze quickly, leaving many commercial boats docked and unable to operate.
The extension also addresses challenging market conditions that have affected watermen beyond weather problems. Despite abundant oysters available for harvest, buyers have significantly reduced their purchasing, with many watermen reporting that dealers are only buying oysters one day per week or less frequently over the past two years.
Residents can support local watermen and fishing communities by purchasing Maryland oysters from seafood markets and restaurants throughout the region.
Secretary Kurtz officially approved the two-week extension on Thursday, with DNR posting public notification on its website the same day. The new regulation takes effect February 23, 2026, and covers all commercial oyster harvesting equipment types through April 14, 2026.
Maryland’s Department of Health, Department of the Environment, and DNR work together continuously to ensure oyster-growing waters meet safety standards for shellfish harvesting under the National Shellfish Sanitation Program. This federal program requires regular testing of shellfish waters and oversight of harvesting and processing to guarantee oysters are safe for consumption.
A former University of Delaware baseball standout will take the mound for Team Italy when the 2026 World Baseball Classic gets underway this spring.
Ron Marinaccio, who previously pitched for the Blue Hens, has earned a coveted roster spot with the Italian national team for the upcoming international tournament. The selection marks a significant milestone for the Delaware baseball program alumnus.
The World Baseball Classic brings together top players from around the globe to compete for their respective countries in what has become one of baseball’s premier international competitions.
Contact: M/Cpl. Ryan Schmid, Public Information Officer Email: [email protected] Phone: 302-736-7130
Dover Police have taken Eric Dryden, 61, into custody after a tense standoff situation that unfolded Wednesday afternoon on Stoney Drive. The incident started when authorities received a call at 3:34 p.m. regarding a domestic dispute where gunshots had been fired.
According to police reports, the situation began when Dryden became involved in a heated dispute with a victim inside their shared residence. During this confrontation, Dryden physically attacked the victim and at one point aimed a gun at her before firing a shot into an interior wall of the home. The victim managed to escape the house safely and called for help.
When officers arrived and tried to convince Dryden to come out of the house, he refused to cooperate. This led to the deployment of Dover Police Department’s Special Operations Response Team (SORT), their Crisis Negotiations Team, and Delaware State Police SORT units. The incident caused major traffic problems in the area, requiring Delaware Department of Transportation crews to help manage the disruption.
Throughout the standoff, Dryden came outside multiple times while armed with a firearm but repeatedly went back inside and would not give himself up to authorities.
At some point during the incident, officials decided to cut power to the home. A City of Dover electrical worker, protected by a Delaware State Police armored vehicle and two Dover Police SORT officers, approached the house to shut off the electricity. While this was happening, Dryden fired his weapon from inside the home toward the outside, coming dangerously close to hitting the utility worker and the officers helping him.
The standoff came to an end when Dryden hurt himself inside the residence and finally gave up. Emergency medical teams treated him at the scene before taking him to a local hospital for care.
Dryden is currently receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed hospital and will face formal charges once doctors clear him. The charges include:
Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony
Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited (2 counts)
Reckless Endangering (4 counts)
Aggravated Menacing
Resisting Arrest
Offensive Touching
Dryden is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Dover Police expressed gratitude to several organizations that helped during the incident. The Capital School District opened Dover High School as a temporary shelter for residents who had to leave their homes during the standoff. Delaware State Police provided ongoing support and worked closely with Dover officers, while the Delaware Department of Transportation helped control traffic. Kent County Paramedics and Ambulnz provided medical assistance throughout the incident.
Police also thanked the residents who were forced to leave their homes during the standoff, praising their patience and cooperation, which helped officers do their job safely while keeping everyone out of danger.
ANNAPOLIS, MD – A virtual meeting has been scheduled by the Maryland State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners for February 26th, 2026, beginning at 10:30 a.m.
The board’s agenda will cover several key areas including the approval of new license applications, evaluation of continuing education requirements, discussion of pending legislation affecting veterinary practice, and other standard board operations.
Those seeking additional details about the meeting can reach out to Nathaniel Boan, who serves as the Board’s Executive Director. He can be contacted by phone at 410-841-5862 or via email at [email protected].
A German pharmaceutical company has taken legal action against Moderna in Delaware’s federal courthouse, claiming the American drugmaker stole patented technology for its latest coronavirus vaccine.
BioNTech filed the patent infringement case on Thursday, targeting Moderna’s newly approved COVID-19 vaccine called mNEXSPIKE. According to court documents, BioNTech claims this next-generation vaccine – which received FDA approval in 2025 – uses proprietary technology without permission.
The disputed technology involves an advanced messenger RNA vaccine formula that allows for smaller doses to be administered to patients while maintaining effectiveness. BioNTech developed this innovation alongside partner Pfizer for their Comirnaty vaccine.
This legal battle represents the latest chapter in an ongoing patent war between the two pharmaceutical giants. Moderna previously filed its own lawsuit against BioNTech and Pfizer back in 2022, which remains unresolved in the courts.
These competing lawsuits are part of a broader trend across the biotechnology industry, where companies are pursuing legal claims seeking compensation for intellectual property used in the highly profitable COVID-19 vaccines.
Neither Moderna nor BioNTech provided immediate responses when contacted about the new legal filing. Pfizer representatives, who are not named as defendants in this particular case, also declined to comment.
NEWARK, Del. – The University of Delaware’s football program is gearing up for spring training as the team builds on their successful 2025 season that ended with a 68 Ventures Bowl Championship victory.
The Blue Hens are set to conduct 15 spring training sessions as they begin their preparation for the upcoming 2026 season, following NCAA guidelines for practice limits.
The spring workouts will allow the team to maintain the positive energy and success from their championship-winning season while developing players and strategies for the year ahead.
Delaware State Police have taken into custody two Baltimore residents following an elaborate shoplifting operation at a Newark retail store that netted over $3,300 in merchandise and led to drug charges.
The suspects, identified as 47-year-old Ron Wardlaw and 43-year-old Lashonda Rooks, were apprehended Wednesday afternoon at Dick’s Sporting Goods on Center Drive after employees reported suspicious activity around 4:00 p.m. on February 18, 2026.
According to investigators, the pair worked together to collect thousands of dollars worth of items throughout the store. Police say Rooks took merchandise into a fitting room while Wardlaw left the building, abandoning a cart full of products near the entrance.
Authorities discovered that Wardlaw had coordinated with a third individual who came into the store looking for the abandoned cart, but employees had already secured the merchandise before the accomplice arrived.
When officers reached the scene, Wardlaw tried to flee in his vehicle but was intercepted just a short distance from the shopping center. Meanwhile, troopers found Rooks still in the fitting room, where she was using a cutting tool to remove security devices from stolen items. Both suspects were taken into custody peacefully, though the third accomplice escaped before police arrived.
The investigation took a more serious turn when officers searched Wardlaw’s vehicle and uncovered approximately 17.85 grams of what they believe to be heroin.
Following their arrest, both suspects were transported to Troop 6 for processing. Wardlaw now faces multiple felony charges including Possession of Controlled Substance Tier 3 Quantity, Attempted to Commit Theft – Organized Retail Crime Over $1500, and Conspiracy 2nd Degree. After appearing before Justice of the Peace Court 3, he was sent to the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution with bail set at $60,000.
Rooks is facing four felony counts: Possession of Controlled Substance Tier 3 Quantity, Possession of Shoplifters Tools or Instruments Facilitating Theft, Attempted to Commit Theft – Organized Retail Crime Over $1500, and Conspiracy 2nd Degree. She was also arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 3 and is being held at the Delores J. Baylor Women’s Correctional Institution on $61,000 bail.
The Delaware Blue Hens women’s basketball squad endured a challenging road game Thursday evening, suffering a 62-36 defeat against Florida International University at Miami’s Ocean Bank Convocation Center.
The loss brings Delaware’s record to 12-14 for the season and 6-8 in Conference USA competition. Meanwhile, the Panthers boosted their standing to 16-9 overall with a 9-5 conference record following the victory.
The Blue Hens struggled offensively throughout the contest, managing just 36 points against FIU’s defense. The 26-point margin represents a significant setback for Delaware as they continue their conference schedule.
Local nonprofit organizations in Cambridge now have an opportunity to secure funding through the city’s grant program, as officials announce the opening of the application process.
Cambridge city officials are currently reviewing applications from area nonprofits seeking financial support for their community programs and services. The grant initiative aims to provide assistance to organizations that serve the local community.
Nonprofit groups interested in applying for these grants can find more information and submit their applications through the city’s official channels. The program represents Cambridge’s ongoing commitment to supporting community organizations that provide valuable services to residents.
State officials are organizing a job fair next month designed to help young people explore career options within Delaware government while addressing workforce development needs.
The event is scheduled for February 25, 2026, at Paul M. Hodgson Vocational Technical High School in Newark, according to state officials. Delaware’s Human Resources and Labor departments are collaborating to organize the fair.
The initiative aims to bridge the gap between students seeking career direction and state agencies looking to fill positions. Attendees will have the chance to learn about internship programs, apprenticeship openings, and various career tracks available within state government.
Officials say the fair represents part of broader efforts to strengthen Delaware’s workforce pipeline by introducing young job seekers to public sector employment opportunities.
Drivers traveling on eastbound Federal School Lane should expect delays this afternoon due to ongoing construction work that has forced the closure of the right lane.
According to the Delaware Department of Transportation, the right lane remains blocked between South DuPont Highway (Route 1) and River Road (Route 9) as crews continue their work.
The lane restriction is expected to be lifted by 4 PM today, though motorists are advised to plan for extra travel time and use alternate routes when possible.
DelDOT continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as construction progresses.
The University of Delaware Blue Hens softball squad is making final preparations for their participation in the upcoming Mizuno Classic tournament.
The team will take their talents to compete against other collegiate programs in this anticipated event, adding another chapter to their current season campaign.
Grace Hausamann and her teammates are expected to represent the Blue Hens as they face off against competition at the classic.
This tournament appearance marks another opportunity for the Delaware program to showcase their skills on a larger stage while continuing to build momentum for the remainder of their season.
Drivers heading to Rehoboth Beach should prepare for traffic changes this weekend as Special Olympics Delaware hosts its yearly Polar Bear Plunge Weekend from Friday, February 27 through Sunday, March 1.
City officials have announced several traffic restrictions that will affect downtown Rehoboth Beach throughout the charitable event weekend.
Beginning Friday, February 27, the bandstand horseshoe area will be off-limits to vehicle traffic and will remain closed until the plunge activities wrap up Sunday afternoon.
Saturday, February 28 will feature the 5K Run to the Plunge event, scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. along the Boardwalk.
The most extensive restrictions will take effect on Sunday, March 1, the main plunge day. Motorists will not be able to park along the initial block of Rehoboth Avenue, spanning from 1st Street down to the Boardwalk. Additional parking limitations will be enforced near boardwalk entrances on various streets.
Emergency and rescue vehicles will have designated parking areas on the first blocks of both Wilmington and Baltimore Avenue. These reserved spaces will be clearly identified with traffic cones and “no parking” signs to ensure emergency access remains clear.
All traffic and parking restrictions will stay in place until the Polar Bear Plunge activities conclude on Sunday.
Following a month-long postponement due to inclement weather, Special Olympics Delaware’s beloved annual Polar Plunge Weekend is set to take place next weekend in Rehoboth Beach, drawing thousands of brave participants to the coastal city.
The beloved community event requires extensive coordination from multiple law enforcement agencies, with Rehoboth Beach Police taking the lead role. According to Captain Jamie Riddle, the department handles extensive safety planning for the weekend festivities. “The Rehoboth Beach Police Department conducts comprehensive operational planning for various public safety components of the Polar Bear Plunge weekend. This includes coordinating logistics, developing staffing plans, and organizing assignments for both RBPD personnel and assisting officers from agencies across the State of Delaware,” Riddle explained.
Prior to the weekend events, police distribute detailed operational briefings to all participating officers to ensure seamless coordination. The department also positions essential equipment throughout the area, including traffic barriers, warning cones, directional signs, and establishes emergency vehicle routes.
During the plunge weekend, Rehoboth Beach Police maintain high visibility patrols across all event locations while continuing to respond to regular emergency calls throughout the city. Officers collaborate with partner agencies to manage crowds, direct traffic, ensure pedestrian safety, and provide immediate emergency response when needed.
Captain Riddle emphasizes the collaborative nature of the event, noting the extensive support from law enforcement partners throughout Delaware. Assisting agencies include Bethany Beach Police Department, Camden Police Department, Capitol Police, Clayton Police Department, DelDOT, Delmar Police Department, Delaware Alcohol & Tobacco Enforcement, Delaware Office of the State Fire Marshal, Delaware State Police, Dewey Beach Police Department, Laurel Police Department, Middletown Police Department, Newark Police Department, Rehoboth Beach Patrol, Rehoboth Beach Volunteer Fire Department, Smyrna Police Department, Sussex County EMS, and University of Delaware Police Department.
The fundraising event supports more than 4,000 Special Olympics Delaware athletes statewide. Since its inception in Rehoboth Beach in 1998, the plunge has grown into a weekend-long celebration attracting thousands of in-person and virtual participants while generating over one million dollars annually for the organization.
Residents and visitors should expect city-wide street closures and parking restrictions during the event weekend.
Destructive blazes are ravaging communities throughout the Central Plains, with Kansas agricultural officials reporting they cannot yet determine the complete extent of the devastation. The state’s Agriculture Secretary, Mike Beam, indicated that the fire outbreak originated in Oklahoma on Tuesday, fueled by dangerous conditions including dry air and powerful wind gusts.
According to Beam, “Very few, if any, of these fires that have sprung up have been” contained, highlighting the ongoing threat these wildfires pose to both states. The Rover Road Fire has emerged as one of the most significant blazes causing major destruction across the affected regions.
Weather conditions continue to hamper firefighting efforts as crews work to battle multiple active fires throughout Kansas and Oklahoma. Officials are urging residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and follow evacuation orders as the situation develops.
New Castle County’s bomb disposal specialists are holding training exercises at Glasgow Park this morning, with activities expected to wrap up around 11:00 a.m.
The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team is using the park location for their training session. People visiting the park today should expect to see extra police officers stationed throughout the area while the exercises are taking place.
Officials want the public to be aware of the heightened law enforcement presence during the training period.
The Arbor Day Foundation has once again recognized Rehoboth Beach with its Tree City USA award, marking three and a half decades of consecutive honors for the coastal community’s dedication to urban forestry initiatives.
Cities must meet specific criteria to qualify for this recognition, including establishing a tree board or forestry department, implementing community tree regulations, investing a minimum of $2 per resident in urban forestry programs, and holding Arbor Day festivities. Rehoboth Beach has surpassed these requirements while maintaining its focus on beautifying parks and roadways with tree plantings.
Michael Lilly, who serves as the city’s Urban Forestry and Parks Manager, credits community involvement for helping guide tree selection decisions. Residents provided input that led to choosing Sugar Maples and Northern Red Oaks as replacements for Bradford Pear trees that were removed from Stockley Street Park in the previous year.
The upcoming spring season will see new plantings concentrated around Lake Gerar, where officials plan to introduce six different tree varieties along the walking path. Additional deciduous trees will be planted to create shade coverage for cars parked on Lake Avenue. This initiative is expected to add 21 new trees to the area.
As part of the city’s ongoing multi-year street tree expansion program, Lilly has identified Hickman Street, Country Club Drive, and State Road as locations for new plantings scheduled for this fall. Last year saw the addition of 24 new street trees, and officials aim to match that number with this year’s autumn planting efforts.
“Continuing this planting cycle of public space plantings in spring and city streets in the fall,” Lilly says, “I hope to increase our overall canopy and native diversity.”
Rehoboth Elementary students will join city officials for an Arbor Day celebration in April, featuring a tree planting ceremony and proclamation event at Stockley Park.
The Arbor Day Foundation operates as an international nonprofit organization dedicated to encouraging tree planting, care, and appreciation worldwide. The organization has built a network of over one million supporters, leaders, and volunteers who share the vision that trees can help create a better future. Over five decades, the foundation and its partners have planted more than 500 million trees. The Tree City USA initiative operates through partnerships with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service.
A quick-moving storm system will bring multiple rounds of rain to the Delmarva region beginning Thursday evening and continuing into Friday morning.
Low pressure tracking into the western Great Lakes will push a surface warm front toward the Mid-Atlantic tonight. As this front approaches, moisture will increase across Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore, leading to widespread precipitation.
Two Rounds of Rain
The first round of rain is expected to develop late Thursday afternoon into the evening, spreading across Delmarva and southern New Jersey. A second round will follow overnight into Friday morning, before gradually tapering off from south to north later in the day.
Rainfall totals across Delmarva are expected to range between 0.30 and 0.50 inches, with some locally higher amounts possible depending on how the heavier bands set up. While flooding is not anticipated, ponding on roadways may occur during periods of steadier rain.
Fog Possible Overnight
As milder, moisture-rich air rides up and over cooler surface air, areas of fog may develop late Thursday night into early Friday morning. Reduced visibility could impact the Friday morning commute, particularly in low-lying and rural areas.
Motorists should be prepared for wet roads and localized visibility reductions overnight and early Friday.
Temperature Gradient Friday
A noticeable temperature difference is expected across Delmarva on Friday due to the position of the warm front. Southern areas may turn milder sooner, while northern portions of the peninsula could remain cooler longer before temperatures gradually moderate.
Milder Conditions for Saturday
Behind the system, winds will shift and temperatures will rebound for Saturday. As cloud cover breaks at times, most of the Delmarva coastal plain should see highs climb into the upper 40s to lower 50s, offering a brief break from the recent chill.
A lingering boundary may remain just north of the region, but only a slight chance of light precipitation is expected near the northern fringe of the area. The majority of Delmarva should stay dry Saturday.
The University of Delaware ice hockey program is about to make history with their first-ever playoff appearance, scheduled to take place against Robert Morris.
This milestone represents a significant achievement for the Blue Hens hockey team, marking their debut in postseason competition. The matchup against Robert Morris will be a defining moment for the Delaware program as they enter uncharted territory in playoff hockey.
The historic playoff game showcases the growth and development of ice hockey at the University of Delaware, demonstrating the program’s progression to competitive postseason play.
Delaware’s Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control has announced the schedule for the 2026 spring trout fishing season in downstate ponds, giving young anglers the first opportunity to cast their lines.
The season will kick off on Saturday, March 7, with fishing restricted exclusively to youth anglers who are younger than 16 years old. This special youth-only day allows young fishing enthusiasts to enjoy the newly stocked ponds without competing with adult anglers.
The general trout season for all anglers will commence the following day, Sunday, March 8, beginning thirty minutes prior to sunrise. This timing allows all Delaware fishing license holders to participate in the popular annual tradition.
The announcement follows the state’s established pattern of providing youth anglers with dedicated access before opening the season to the general public, encouraging young people to develop an interest in fishing and outdoor recreation.
ANNAPOLIS, MD – State agriculture officials announced Tuesday they have lifted bird flu restrictions across Caroline County, Maryland, signaling progress in containing the recent outbreak.
The Maryland Department of Agriculture confirmed February 19, 2026, that the control zone previously established in Caroline County has been officially released. This development allows most agricultural operations in the area to return to normal activities.
While the broader restrictions have been removed, the farm where the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) was originally detected continues to operate under quarantine protocols. All other agricultural facilities within the former restricted zone may now resume standard operations, provided they don’t fall within any other active control zones established elsewhere in the state.
The control area release represents a significant step forward in Maryland’s efforts to manage and contain the bird flu outbreak that prompted the initial restrictions.
Salisbury University’s track and field athletes are heading south to Virginia this weekend with championship aspirations at the Coast-to-Coast Athletic Conference Indoor Track and Field Championships. The competition takes place Friday, February 20 and Saturday, February 21 at Christopher Newport University’s Freeman Center in Newport News, Virginia.
Both the men’s and women’s Sea Gulls teams will be looking to capture conference titles during the two-day indoor meet. The university competes at the NCAA Division III level with its primary conference affiliation being the Coast-to-Coast Athletic Conference.
Beyond the C2C, Salisbury also maintains affiliate memberships across multiple conferences for various sports, including the New Jersey Athletic Conference for football and swimming, the Coastal Lacrosse Conference for men’s lacrosse, the State University of New York Athletic Conference for field hockey, and the Colonial Women’s Golf Conference for women’s golf.
The Sea Gulls athletic program encompasses more than 500 student-athletes competing across 23 varsity sports, establishing itself as one of the country’s most successful intercollegiate programs across all divisions. The program’s impressive track record includes 23 team national titles, 24 individual national championships, and 207 conference titles, while producing 54 Academic All-Americans under the guidance of committed coaches and staff who emphasize achievement both in competition and academics.
WASHINGTON—Farmers who grow fruits, vegetables, and nuts may qualify for emergency financial relief through a newly announced federal assistance program targeting specialty crop producers.
The United States Department of Agriculture has rolled out $1 billion in funding through its Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers Program, designed to help growers of crops that weren’t included in the earlier Farmer Bridge Assistance Program.
Operating under the Commodity Credit Corporation Charter Act, the program will be managed by the USDA’s Farm Service Agency. Producers must submit their 2025 acreage information to FSA by March 13 to be considered for assistance.
“The ASCF program payments are designed to address financial stress that specialty crop farmers encountered due to high input costs, such as fuel and fertilizer inputs; persistent inflation; market disruptions; and foreign competition that often benefits from lower labor costs,” explained Tony Banks, senior assistant director of agriculture, development and innovation at Virginia Farm Bureau Federation.
Banks emphasized that specialty crop farmers face unique challenges compared to traditional commodity producers, lacking the same financial safety nets and risk management options available to grain and livestock operations.
“Specialty crops tend to be highly perishable and can’t be stored from one year to the next to wait for better prices,” Banks noted. “These ASCFP payments will help specialty crop producers offset incurred losses.”
Payment amounts will be calculated based on farmers’ reported 2025 planted acreage. Growers must ensure their acreage reports are complete and correct before the 5 p.m. deadline on March 13. The USDA plans to announce specific payment rates for each crop type by the end of March.
Farmers growing dry edible beans and peas who already received support through the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program cannot receive additional ASCF payments.
Additional details about the ASCF program are available at fsa.usda.gov/fba, or by contacting your local FSA county office.
Delaware Department of Transportation crews are currently conducting flagging operations along Collins Avenue and Read Avenue in the area between Coastal Highway (State Route 1) and the beach.
The traffic control operations are scheduled to continue until 5:00 PM today, according to DelDOT officials.
Motorists traveling through the area should anticipate potential delays and consider using alternative routes during this time period.
Motorists traveling through Pike Creek should prepare for lane restrictions this week as state transportation crews tackle dangerous tree removal operations along Upper Pike Creek Road.
Delaware Department of Transportation officials have announced a multi-day schedule of lane closures affecting different sections of the roadway. The tree removal work will begin Monday, March 2nd and continue through Friday, March 6th.
The scheduled closures will impact three separate stretches of Upper Pike Creek Road:
• Monday and Tuesday (March 2nd-3rd): Work will occur between Linden Hill Road and Paper Mill Road
• Wednesday (March 4th): Crews will focus on the area between Route 2 and Old Coach Road
• Thursday and Friday (March 5th-6th): Operations will take place between Old Coach Road and Linden Hill Road
DelDOT advises drivers to plan alternate routes or allow extra travel time when passing through these work zones during the scheduled dates.
New Castle County police have taken three suspects into custody in connection with a shooting that took place at the Paladin Club Apartments complex.
Law enforcement officers responded to the scene in the 8600 block of Park Court on Monday, January 12, 2026, around 9:16 p.m. after receiving reports of gunshots being fired.
According to investigators with the New Castle County Division of Police, the incident began as a dispute that took place outside the residential complex. During the confrontation, shots were fired.
Police detectives have since made arrests in the case, though additional details about the suspects and charges have not yet been released.
Motorists traveling along Route 40 should expect to see cleanup crews working on the roadway shoulders today as DelDOT conducts litter removal operations.
The cleanup work is taking place in both the eastbound and westbound lanes of Route 40 between Christiana Road (Route 273) and the Maryland state line. Crews are scheduled to complete their work by 4 PM this afternoon.
Drivers are advised to use caution when passing through the work zone and to be aware of crews working along the shoulder areas.
Delaware Department of Transportation crews are conducting litter removal operations along Route 40 today, working on the roadway shoulders in both the eastbound and westbound lanes.
The cleanup efforts are taking place along the stretch of highway between Christiana Road (Route 273) and the Maryland state line, with crews expected to wrap up their work by 4 PM this afternoon.
Drivers using this section of Route 40 should use caution when approaching the work zones and may experience minor delays as crews perform their maintenance duties along the shoulder areas.
Dense fog conditions have developed across Delaware, creating hazardous driving conditions throughout the First State. The Delaware Department of Transportation is urging all drivers to exercise extreme caution while on the roads.
Visibility has been significantly reduced in multiple areas across Delaware, with fog intensity varying from location to location. The atmospheric conditions have created a safety concern for motorists traveling on state highways and local roads.
Transportation officials recommend that drivers reduce their speed, increase following distances, and use low-beam headlights when navigating through the foggy conditions. Motorists should also avoid using high-beam headlights, which can reflect off the fog and further reduce visibility.
The fog advisory remains in effect as weather conditions continue to impact travel safety throughout Delaware.
Agricultural professionals are encouraging Delaware area farmers to begin inspecting their machinery immediately to prevent potential setbacks when the busy spring planting season arrives.
Alex Case, a retail sales agronomist with Brevant Seeds, notes that many producers have likely already begun examining their equipment. “Those planters, tending vessels, all those things out and look them over. And not just the bearings, bushings, belts, pulleys, motors, the technology piece right,” Case explained.
The recommendation comes as farmers across the region prepare for another planting season, with proper equipment maintenance being crucial for avoiding expensive delays during the narrow window when field conditions are optimal for planting operations.
Good morning, Delmarva! We’re starting this Thursday with some patchy fog that should lift by 9 AM, but don’t put that umbrella away just yet.
Today brings cloudy skies and a 70% chance of rain, with temperatures reaching a cool 45 degrees. You’ll feel a gentle east wind at 5 to 10 mph, and while we’re expecting rain, the good news is rainfall amounts will be light – less than a tenth of an inch.
Tonight, rain becomes more likely as temperatures dip to around 40 degrees. Friday continues the wet pattern with light rain throughout the day, though it’ll be a bit milder with highs near 52 degrees – a nice little warm-up for us!
Friday night offers some hope as we transition from a chance of light rain to mostly cloudy skies, with lows dropping to 36 degrees.
While it’s not the most exciting weather pattern, this gentle rain will be great for early spring preparations. Keep those rain jackets handy, and remember – we’re getting closer to those beautiful spring days ahead!
Stay dry, Delmarva!
An extended period without snowfall in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains created the dangerous conditions that led to Tuesday’s fatal avalanche near Lake Tahoe, according to avalanche experts analyzing the tragedy.
Craig Clements, a meteorology professor at San Jose State University who studies avalanches, explained that several feet of fresh snow landed on top of a hardened layer from earlier in the season. The two layers failed to properly connect, creating hazardous and easily triggered conditions.
“The new snow did not have time to bond to the earlier layer before the avalanche,” Clements said. The disaster claimed the lives of at least eight backcountry skiers, while six others survived the ordeal. Search teams continued looking for one missing person on Wednesday.
The skiing party had embarked on a three-day wilderness expedition in the Sierra Nevada mountains when the avalanche struck Tuesday morning, coinciding with a powerful winter storm battering the West Coast.
According to Clements, avalanche risks typically peak during the initial 24 to 48 hours following significant snowfall, and officials had already posted avalanche advisories for the region.
The meteorology expert described how prolonged dry conditions, which had persisted in the Sierra Nevada since January, cause snow crystals to transform and develop angular or rounded shapes over time.
When substantial amounts of new snow accumulate on these altered crystals, the different layers frequently cannot form proper connections. This creates what avalanche specialists call a storm slab positioned above a weaker foundation layer.
“Because it’s on a mountain, it will slide,” Clements explained, noting that any shift in pressure from above or below can trigger the slide. While some avalanches occur naturally, human activity in the area can also set them off. Officials have not yet determined what caused Tuesday’s avalanche to begin.
Clements noted that more regular snowfall throughout the winter season would have allowed different snow layers to bond more effectively. However, even when dangerous storm slabs develop, the hazardous conditions typically last only a few days before the new snow becomes more stable.
While climate change can create weather extremes including both drought conditions and intense precipitation events, scientists say it remains challenging to determine how this might influence avalanche patterns or locations.
Clements characterized this week’s avalanche as typical for California’s Sierra Nevada region and does not believe it connects to climate change impacts.
He described avalanches as dependent on snowfall amounts and the stability of underlying layers, calling this incident “a meteorological phenomenon, not a climate phenomenon.”
Weather reports indicate that between 3 and 6 feet of snow accumulated since Sunday, when the group began their expedition. The region also experienced below-freezing temperatures and powerful winds. The Sierra Avalanche Center warned Wednesday that additional avalanche threats remained, leaving snow conditions unstable and unpredictable.
Recovery teams located eight bodies near California’s Lake Tahoe following Tuesday’s avalanche, which authorities describe as the nation’s most deadly in nearly 50 years. Six members of the guided tour were rescued six hours after the slide occurred.
Nevada County Sheriff Shannan Moon announced Wednesday that investigators will examine the decision to continue with the planned trip despite storm forecasts.
The skiers had traveled Sunday to isolated mountain huts located at 7,600 feet elevation in Tahoe National Forest, bringing their own food and equipment. At 6:49 that morning, the Sierra Avalanche Center had issued an avalanche watch for the area, warning that large slides were probable within the following 24 to 48 hours.
Motorists traveling on Lancaster Pike in New Castle County should expect delays as utility crews have shut down the westbound right lane for ongoing work.
The lane closure affects the stretch of roadway between Hedgerow Place and Courtney Road, according to Delaware Department of Transportation officials.
Drivers are advised to use caution when traveling through the work zone and allow extra time for their commute. Traffic is being directed around the construction area using the remaining open lanes.
DelDOT has not provided an estimated timeline for when the utility work will be completed and normal traffic patterns restored.
WASHINGTON — A scene of political cooperation unfolded in the nation’s capital this week that has become increasingly uncommon in today’s polarized environment.
Republican Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt and Democratic Maryland Governor Wes Moore appeared together on stage, exchanging friendly banter and praise rather than the heated rhetoric that typically dominates political discourse. The two leaders represent the National Governors Association, among the few remaining bipartisan organizations in American politics.
The association is conducting its yearly gathering this week, though maintaining its reputation as a haven from political division may prove challenging. President Trump has departed from longstanding protocol by choosing not to extend invitations to all governors for the customary White House reception and dinner.
Trump has publicly criticized Stitt, who serves as the NGA’s chairman, labeling him a “RINO” (Republican in name only). The president has also continued his disputes with Moore, the organization’s vice chairman, holding him responsible for a sewage incident involving a federally overseen pipeline.
This departure from established customs mirrors Trump’s overall strategy for his second presidency. He has adopted an adversarial position toward certain states, threatening to withhold federal funding or deploy military personnel despite local officials’ opposition.
As the Republican-led Congress appears reluctant to check Trump’s authority, numerous governors are positioning themselves as a balance against White House power.
“Presidents aren’t supposed to do this stuff,” remarked Utah Governor Spencer Cox regarding the growth of executive authority in recent years. “Congress needs to get their act together. And stop performing for TikTok and actually start doing stuff. That’s the flaw we’re dealing with right now.”
Cox, also a Republican, stated that “it is up to the states to hold the line.”
Moore shared similar views during his conversation with The Associated Press.
“People are paying attention to how governors are moving, because I think governors have a unique way to move in this moment that other people just don’t,” he explained.
Despite these challenges, governors maintained a positive outlook during Wednesday’s discussions and interviews. Stitt described the conference as “bigger than one dinner at the White House.” Moore anticipated “this is going to be a very productive three days for the governors.”
“Here’s a Republican and Democrat governor from different states that literally agree on probably 80% of the things. And the things we disagree on we can have honest conversations on,” Stitt commented while seated next to Moore.
Disputes over White House event invitations highlighted the week’s uncertainties. During the ongoing disagreement, Trump clashed with Stitt and declared that Moore and Colorado Governor Jared Polis were excluded because they “are not worthy of being there.”
Whether the cooperative spirit demonstrated Wednesday evening will persist throughout the conference and beyond remains uncertain.
“We can have disagreements. In business, I always want people around me arguing with me and pushing me because that’s where the best ideas come from,” Stitt noted. “We need to all have these exchange of ideas.”
WASHINGTON — Maryland Governor Wes Moore finds himself repeatedly in President Donald Trump’s crosshairs, but the Democratic leader says he harbors no ill will toward the commander-in-chief.
Trump has excluded Moore from an upcoming White House gathering with state leaders from across the political spectrum, declaring the governor “not worthy” of attending. The president has also blamed Moore for a sewage leak contaminating the Potomac River, despite the damaged pipeline being under federal jurisdiction.
Additional friction may arise as Moore, currently the nation’s sole Black governor, pushes to restructure Maryland’s congressional districts to benefit Democrats. This effort is part of a broader national map-drawing fight that Trump initiated to aid Republican prospects in upcoming midterm races.
Speaking with reporters Wednesday during the National Governors Association’s annual Washington conference, Moore addressed the president’s escalating attacks with measured restraint.
Regarding Trump’s blame for the Potomac sewage incident, Moore called the situation almost laughable if it weren’t so serious. “This is a Washington, D.C., pipe that exists on federal land. How this has anything to do with Maryland, I have no idea. I think he just woke up and just said, I hate Maryland so I’m just going to introduce them into a conversation. This literally has nothing to do with us, with the exception of the fact that when we first heard about what happened, that I ordered our team to assist Washington, D.C.,” Moore explained.
When asked whether Trump’s criticism feels personal, Moore took the high road. “I know it’s not for me. I have no desire to have beef with the president of the United States. I didn’t run for governor like, man, I can’t wait so me and the president can go toe to toe. I have no desire on that. But the fact that he is waking up in the middle of the night and tweeting about me, I just, I pray for him and I just feel bad for him because that has just got to be a really, really hard existence,” he said.
The governor, who serves as vice chair of the National Governors Association and is often mentioned as a potential Democratic presidential contender, defended his redistricting efforts as a response to Trump’s actions. “All we’re asking for is a vote. And however the vote goes, however the vote goes. But that’s democracy,” Moore stated after meeting with Democratic House leader Hakeem Jeffries.
Moore characterized his redistricting push as necessary oversight rather than partisan politics. “I don’t look at it as I’m doing it because I’m trying to help a party per se. I’m doing it because I think we have an unchecked executive and right now Congress does not seem interested in actually doing its job and establishing real checks and balances,” he explained.
He placed responsibility for the current redistricting battles squarely on Trump’s shoulders. “This would not be an issue had it not been for Donald Trump saying, you know what, let me come up with every creative way I can think of to make this pain permanent. And one of the ways he did was he said, let’s just start calling states — the states I choose — to say let’s have a redistricting conversation mid-decade. This would not even be an issue had Donald Trump not brought this up and introduced this into the ecosystem.”
When questioned about Trump’s relationship with Black Americans during Black History Month, Moore pointed to what he sees as a troubling pattern. “Listen, I think the president has long had a very complicated history with the Black community. We’re talking about a person who has been sued from his earliest days from his treatment of Black tenants. We’re talking about a person who is one of the originators of birtherism. We’re talking about a person who has now spent his time trying to ban books about Black history, a person who has spent his time now doing the greatest assault on unemployment of Black women in our nation’s history. You know, so, I’m not sure what anyone is going to gain from an event by Donald Trump about Black history.”
Looking at the broader political landscape, Moore emphasized governors’ crucial role as “the final line of defense” and stressed the importance of remaining true to one’s principles. “You stay consistent with who you are. I think if you’re a polarizing person or polarizing personality, then that’s just who you are. That’s just never been me,” he concluded.
Delaware Department of Transportation officials have shut down the exit ramp connecting northbound Interstate 295 to Route 141 after a vehicle accident occurred in the area.
The closure is currently impacting traffic patterns as emergency responders and cleanup crews work at the crash site. Motorists traveling northbound on I-295 who planned to exit onto Route 141 will need to find alternate routes.
DelDOT has not yet provided information about when the ramp might reopen or details about the severity of the collision. Drivers are advised to expect delays and plan accordingly if their commute typically includes this route.
ORLANDO, Fla. – The University of Delaware men’s swimming and diving squad delivered strong performances on the opening day of the 2026 Atlantic Sun Swimming & Diving Championships, earning a third-place position after day one of competition.
The Blue Hens demonstrated their competitive strength by securing top-three finishes in three out of the four events they entered during the championship’s first day in Orlando, Florida.
The team’s solid start to the multi-day championship meet positions them well as competition continues at the Atlantic Sun conference tournament.
ORLANDO, Fla. – The Blue Hens women’s swimming and diving squad is sitting in second place following the opening day of competition at the 2026 Atlantic Sun Swimming & Diving Championships.
Delaware’s team secured four third-place individual finishes during Tuesday’s events in Orlando, positioning themselves well for the remainder of the conference championship meet.
The strong opening day performance puts the Blue Hens in contention for a high team finish as the multi-day championship continues in Florida.
NEWARK, Del. – In a devastating finish Wednesday evening, the University of Delaware men’s basketball squad lost a heartbreaking overtime battle against Western Kentucky University by a single point, 88-87.
The crushing defeat brought an end to the Fighting Blue Hens’ three-game victory run and pushed their overall season record to 9-17, while their Conference USA standing fell to 5-10.
Meanwhile, the visiting Hilltoppers boosted their season performance to 15-11 overall and improved their conference record to 8-7 in CUSA play following the narrow victory in Newark.
The nail-biting contest required extra time to determine a winner, with both teams battling through regulation before Western Kentucky managed to edge out the Blue Hens by the slimmest of margins in overtime.
Delaware drivers should expect delays on a busy stretch of State Route 1 southbound due to ongoing lane restrictions in the Willow Grove Road area.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that the right lane is currently blocked along SR-1 southbound starting at Willow Grove Road and continuing through the end of the Exit 93 off-ramp.
Transportation officials indicate the lane closure will remain active until 3 a.m., affecting the morning commute for drivers in the area.
Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and use caution when approaching the work zone.
Motorists traveling along Route 202 will need to find alternate routes for left turns at Fairfax Boulevard as Delaware Department of Transportation crews conduct signal maintenance work.
The left turn lanes in both the northbound and southbound directions at the Route 202 and Fairfax Boulevard intersection have been temporarily closed while workers repair traffic signal equipment.
DelDOT officials say the lane closures will remain in effect until 6 AM as crews complete the necessary signal work. Drivers are advised to plan for potential delays and consider alternative routes if they need to make left turns at this intersection.
The maintenance work is part of ongoing efforts to keep Delaware’s traffic infrastructure functioning properly and safely for all motorists.
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore men’s volleyball squad delivered a commanding performance Tuesday evening, sweeping Roberts Wesleyan in three consecutive sets at the Hytche Athletic Center.
The Hawks demonstrated complete control throughout the match against the visiting Redhawks, never allowing their opponents to claim a single set in the decisive victory.
The straight-set triumph showcased UMES’s dominance on their home court, as they efficiently dispatched Roberts Wesleyan without dropping a game during the entire contest.
FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – Salisbury University’s men’s basketball squad encountered a challenging road test on Wednesday evening, dropping an 88-72 decision to the nationally-ranked Mary Washington Eagles at the William M. Anderson Center.
The Sea Gulls faced off against the eighth-ranked Eagles in what proved to be a difficult contest for the visiting team. Mary Washington controlled the game throughout, ultimately securing a 16-point victory over Salisbury.
The loss came during Wednesday night’s action in Fredericksburg, Virginia, as the Sea Gulls continued their season against tough competition.
Delaware motorists are facing significant traffic delays this morning following a vehicle collision on Route 1 southbound near Fast Landing Road.
The accident has forced authorities to shut down several travel lanes in the area, creating a bottleneck for commuters and travelers heading south on the major Delaware highway.
DelDOT officials are monitoring the situation as emergency responders work to clear the crash site and restore normal traffic flow. Drivers are advised to seek alternative routes or allow extra travel time if they must use this corridor.
The incident location is approximately at milepost 42 on the southbound side of Route 1, a heavily traveled stretch of roadway that serves as a main artery for Delaware traffic.
Through traffic will be blocked on a stretch of Beaver Dam Drive this Thursday afternoon as city crews continue work on a major water system upgrade.
The roadway will be shut down at North Park Drive between East Main Street and Hillside Drive from 12 p.m. until 4 p.m. on February 19th. People who live on North Park Drive, East Main Street, Hillside Drive and Beaver Dam Drive can still get to their homes with help from traffic control personnel, but everyone else will need to find different routes.
Both Ben’s Red Swings and the Salisbury Zoo will stay open during the work. While the zoo entrance near Ben’s Red Swings at the intersection with South Park Drive will have some blockages through Friday, visitors can still find parking spots. The main zoo entrance at South Park Drive with the traffic circle leading to Memorial Plaza should remain clear.
This temporary shutdown is connected to a large-scale infrastructure upgrade by Salisbury’s Department of Water Works to install a new raw water pipeline that moves water from the city’s well system to its treatment facility.
The massive undertaking spans roughly 3,300 feet and involves installing pipes of various sizes from 24 inches down to 8 inches in diameter. Some sections will require special drilling techniques, including boring underneath the river. The current raw water pipeline system has components dating back nearly 100 years to 1925 and needs replacement to maintain dependable water service. City officials previously had to replace a section near the treatment plant in 2006 when it failed. This current effort will swap out the rest of the main pipeline, connecting pipes and valves linked to operating wells.
Work crews are designing the construction to avoid disrupting the current raw water system, well connections or active wells. The replacement main will connect to existing infrastructure, but control valves will stay shut until the changeover is finished. New well connections will be built individually to coordinate well shutdowns when making the final hookups.
City park users should expect some disruption to walking trails that go through City Park and by the Salisbury Zoo during construction periods. The work started near the Dog Park and Tennis Courts area and will move along the East Branch waterway past Memorial Plaza.
Officials expect the entire infrastructure project to wrap up by autumn 2026. City leaders are asking for public patience while this critical infrastructure work moves forward.
A section of Wesline Road remains impassable this evening after a utility pole came down, prompting officials to block traffic in both directions.
Delaware Department of Transportation reports the roadway is shut down between Providence Church Road and Old Racetrack Road while crews work to address the situation.
Motorists should expect the closure to continue until approximately 9 PM tonight and are advised to seek alternate routes when traveling through the area.
Delaware Senator Chris Coons joined fellow lawmakers on a fact-finding mission to Ukraine this week, where they pledged to return to Washington with renewed calls for tougher economic measures against Russia.
Speaking to reporters during a phone call from Ukraine on Wednesday, the Democratic senators emphasized their commitment to advancing harsh energy sanctions and other legislative measures designed to force Russia to halt its military actions against Ukraine.
New Hampshire Senator Jeanne Shaheen, accompanied by three other Democratic colleagues, stated their intention to intensify efforts upon returning to the Capitol. “I would hope that we would see a stronger effort and some real work when we get back to put pressure on (Russian President Vladimir) Putin,” Shaheen declared.
Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal highlighted the need to target nations purchasing Russian energy resources. “We are united that countries buying Russian oil and gas – and they are China, India, Hungary, Brazil – should be given very strong incentives to stop doing so, and it’s a way to really positively impact Ukraine’s fight,” Blumenthal explained.
The senators conducted their discussions amid challenging weather conditions in Odesa, where they engaged with Ukrainian coast guard personnel, naval representatives, American business officials, and local community leaders before departing for Moldova Wednesday evening.
Their visit coincided with the conclusion of two days of diplomatic negotiations in Geneva between Ukrainian and Russian representatives, which wrapped up Wednesday without achieving any significant breakthroughs. The talks occurred as Russia’s comprehensive military campaign against Ukraine approached its four-year mark.
While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed disappointment with the negotiation results, President Donald Trump’s administration characterized the discussions as showing “meaningful progress.”
Ukraine continues to face mounting pressure from the Trump administration to accept a potential agreement that might require significant territorial or political compromises, even as Russian military forces continue targeting the nation’s electrical infrastructure and making gradual territorial gains.
Congressional members from both major political parties, including Republicans aligned with Trump as well as Democrats, have argued against placing excessive pressure on Kyiv to accept unfavorable terms. In recent months, they successfully enacted legislation providing hundreds of millions of dollars in aid to Zelenskiy’s administration, which Trump ultimately signed into law.
A key piece of pending legislation in Congress would establish sanctions against nations that purchase Russian petroleum products, natural gas, and uranium. This bipartisan measure, co-sponsored by Blumenthal and South Carolina Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, has garnered support from 85 out of 100 senators but has yet to receive a floor vote.
Republican Senate leadership has refrained from scheduling the bill for consideration due to opposition from Trump, who has maintained control over sanctions policy within the executive branch rather than allowing Congress to direct such measures since beginning his second presidential term in January 2025.
The Democratic senators currently visiting Ukraine expressed hope for swift passage of the sanctions legislation and voiced optimism regarding separate proposed legislation targeting Russia’s “shadow fleet” – a network of aging oil tankers used to transport Russian crude to China, India, and other purchasing nations.
Rhode Island Senator Sheldon Whitehouse emphasized the importance of maintaining pressure on Russia. “Nobody, literally nobody, believes that Russia is acting in good faith in the negotiations with our government and with the Ukrainians. And so pressure becomes the key, and the shadow fleet is one element of that pressure,” Whitehouse stated.
Graham participated in discussions with more than a dozen Republican and Democratic senators who met with Zelenskiy during last weekend’s Munich Security Conference. Following those meetings, Graham indicated that Trump had endorsed his sanctions proposal and called for a congressional vote.
During Wednesday’s call, the visiting senators indicated their readiness to oppose any negotiated settlement that would force Ukraine into excessive concessions, stating they would refuse to ratify such an agreement.
Delaware’s Senator Coons emphasized the importance of security assurances in any potential deal. “We will be looking for very strong security guarantees,” Coons said.
New Castle County police continue their investigation into the fatal shooting of a 29-year-old man that occurred seven years ago at an apartment complex in New Castle.
John Marcus Fryer was killed during an early morning shooting incident on February 18, 2017, at the Coachman’s Manor Apartments located on Surry Court in New Castle.
Police officers were dispatched to the scene around 4:00 a.m. following reports of gunfire at the residential complex on the 1600 block of Surry Court. When law enforcement arrived at the location, they discovered Fryer at the scene.
The case remains open as investigators work to identify those responsible for Fryer’s death. Authorities are encouraging anyone with information about the shooting to contact police.
The homicide is part of New Castle County’s ongoing efforts to solve cold cases and bring closure to families affected by violent crimes in the community.
The University of Delaware women’s lacrosse team came up short against 11th-ranked Navy, despite a notable offensive performance that saw half a dozen Blue Hens players contribute multiple points to the scoreboard.
Six Delaware players managed to record multi-point efforts during the contest against the highly-ranked Midshipmen, showcasing the team’s balanced attack and offensive depth.
The loss comes as the Blue Hens continue their season against tough competition, facing off against one of the nation’s top-ranked programs in Navy.
While the final result didn’t go Delaware’s way, the strong individual performances from multiple players demonstrates the team’s offensive capabilities as they move forward in their campaign.
Outdoor enthusiasts across Maryland’s Eastern Shore will gather this Saturday for an inaugural celebration of the region’s recreational traditions. The Explore the Shore Expo debuts February 21 in Cambridge, bringing together families for a day dedicated to the area’s hunting, fishing, camping and adventure culture.
The debut festival combines outdoor equipment displays, educational workshops, vendor booths, regional food and drink offerings, plus an official Bucks-Bears-Stags measuring event. This family-oriented gathering aims to unite outdoor companies, regional businesses and community members in honoring the Shore’s recreational heritage.
Cambridge’s renovated Packing House will serve as the venue for the expo. The historic structure dates back to 1920 when it operated as part of Phillips Packing Company, which became Dorchester County’s largest employer during the 1900s and significantly shaped Chesapeake Bay’s industrial legacy.
Multiple organizations are backing the event, including Cross Street Partners/The Packing House, Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Office of Outdoor Recreation, National Wildlife Refuge System, Bucks-Bears-Stags, Visit Dorchester, Waterfowl Festival, RaR Brewing, and J.J. McDonnell & Co.
“Explore the Shore is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of who we are on Maryland’s Eastern Shore,” said Amanda Fenstermaker, community manager at The Packing House. “This expo highlights our region’s love for nature, adventure and community, and showcases the local organizations and businesses that help people experience it.”
Maryland Department of Natural Resources staff from various divisions will attend, including representatives from Maryland Park Service, Wildlife and Heritage Service, Natural Resources Police, Watershed and Climate Services, and Fishing and Boating Services. These experts will provide information on hunting, fishing, camping fundamentals and environmental conservation practices.
“Outdoor recreation is such an important part of Maryland’s culture and economy, but it’s also unique to each region,” said Sandi Olek, director of the Office of Outdoor Recreation. “It’s been wonderful to work with the Packing House and local partners to highlight the businesses, organizations, tastes, and outdoor experiences of the Eastern Shore.”
The expo runs from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Admission costs $5 per person, while children 12 and younger enter free. Attendees can buy tickets online or pay with cash at the entrance.
Additional details are available at thepackinghousecambridge.com/outdoor-expo.
Motorists are being advised to avoid a section of Forrest Avenue in the Dover area where police activity has prompted authorities to temporarily shut down the roadway.
Delaware Department of Transportation officials report that Route 8, also known as Forrest Avenue, is currently impassable to traffic in the area between Mifflin Road and Cranberry Run Drive.
The nature of the police activity has not been disclosed at this time. Drivers are encouraged to seek alternate routes while authorities work to resolve the situation and reopen the roadway to normal traffic flow.
Motorists traveling through a section of Old Mill Bridge Road should expect delays today as construction crews have temporarily closed one lane of traffic.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that the northbound lanes of Old Mill Bridge Road at the intersection with Tidal Road are currently restricted due to active construction work in the area.
Officials indicate the lane closure will remain in effect until 3 PM today. Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time and consider alternate routes if possible to avoid potential congestion in the construction zone.
Ocean City, Maryland officials received welcome news last week when a federal judge ruled entirely in their favor regarding a legal challenge from offshore wind developer US Wind.
On February 13, 2026, Judge Gallagher of the United States District Court granted a motion that completely threw out US Wind’s cross-claim against federal defendants in the case. Ocean City announced the court decision on February 18th.
City officials are calling the ruling a major procedural win in their ongoing legal battle. The judge’s decision means that US Wind’s cross-claim cannot proceed any further in the federal court system.
The dismissal represents the latest development in what has been a contentious legal dispute between the Maryland resort town and the renewable energy company over offshore wind development plans.
GREENBELT, Md. — A federal jury is deliberating the fate of a renowned Supreme Court attorney who secretly earned tens of millions of dollars as a high-stakes poker player while allegedly evading taxes on his massive gambling winnings.
Thomas Goldstein, who co-founded the influential SCOTUSblog and argued more than 40 cases before the nation’s highest court, faces 16 federal charges following a six-week trial that concluded Wednesday in Maryland. His indictment last year stunned Washington’s legal circles, where Goldstein was a respected figure until his 2023 retirement.
Federal prosecutor Sean Beaty described Goldstein as among the most brilliant attorneys ever to appear before the Supreme Court during closing arguments.
“He’s not a dummy. He’s a willful tax cheat,” Beaty told the jury.
Defense lawyer Jonathan Kravis countered that federal investigators rushed to judgment and wrongly believed an accountant’s fabricated claims about his client’s gambling activities without proper investigation.
“Not even close,” Kravis said. “Tom Goldstein is innocent.”
The proceedings, which began January 12, featured testimony from Hollywood actor Tobey Maguire, known for his “Spider-Man” films and poker enthusiasm, who sought Goldstein’s legal assistance in collecting gambling money owed by a billionaire. Goldstein also testified on his own behalf.
Federal authorities allege Goldstein concealed millions in gambling earnings from tax collectors, siphoned funds from his law practice Goldstein & Russell to cover poker debts, and improperly claimed gambling losses as business write-offs.
“It was a textbook tax-evasion scheme,” Beaty stated. “And Mr. Goldstein executed that nearly flawlessly.”
Goldstein maintains his innocence, claiming he consistently directed his firm’s staff and accountants to properly categorize his personal expenditures. In a 2014 message to an employee, he wrote that “we always play completely by the rules.”
His defense team acknowledges Goldstein should have monitored his company’s financial matters more carefully and concedes he made unintentional errors on tax documents. However, Kravis insisted his client never deliberately cheated on taxes or knowingly filed false information.
“A mistake is not a crime,” he argued.
Additional charges accuse Goldstein of deceiving IRS investigators and concealing gambling debts from accountants, staff members, and mortgage companies. Court documents claim he failed to disclose a $15 million gambling debt on home loan paperwork while house-hunting in Washington, D.C., with his spouse in 2021.
According to prosecutors, Goldstein earned approximately $50 million in poker proceeds during 2016 alone, including about $22 million from games in Asia. The alleged tax scheme unraveled when another gambler, believing Goldstein had cheated him, reported a 2016 debt to the IRS.
The indictment also claims Goldstein misused his law firm to inappropriately pay wages and health benefits to four women with whom he maintained or pursued romantic relationships from 2016 through 2022. He reportedly met three through a “sugar daddy” dating platform that connects older men with younger women seeking financial assistance, while encountering the fourth at a poker event where she worked as a server and masseuse.
Government lawyers say these women held fictitious positions and contributed minimal work to Goldstein’s firm. The charges allege he avoided taxes by categorizing the women’s compensation and healthcare costs as legitimate business expenses.
Goldstein’s legal team criticized prosecutors for inappropriately presenting sensational details about his romantic relationships to grand jurors. Days before his January indictment, his attorneys claimed Justice Department officials hastily pursued charges before the presidential transition.
“This roving search for a crime appears to be motivated in large part by personal animus towards Mr. Goldstein,” defense lawyers wrote ten days before formal charges were filed.
Goldstein previously served on the legal team representing Democrat Al Gore in Supreme Court litigation following the contested 2000 election ultimately decided in favor of Republican George W. Bush. Last November, after learning of the investigation but before facing charges, Goldstein published an opinion piece in The New York Times calling for dismissal of criminal cases against Republican President Donald Trump.
“Although this idea will pain my fellow Democrats, all of the cases should be abandoned,” he wrote following Trump’s 2024 election victory.
Prosecutors sought to introduce statements Goldstein recently made to The New York Times Magazine regarding his criminal case. He told the publication that his wife, who helped establish SCOTUSblog alongside him, remained unaware of his gambling activities or relationships with other women.
“I just had this entirely separate life,” he revealed to journalist Jeffrey Toobin.
Delaware and regional farmers are grappling with a challenging financial reality as the costs of running their operations continue to climb while their income streams shrink. According to agricultural finance experts, this troubling pattern represents a significant break from past trends.
Bill Moore, who serves as an agricultural economist with Compeer Financial, explains that farm income has failed to match the rising expenses of agricultural production. “And for the last two-plus years we’ve seen a real divergence where historically they tend to trend together, but production costs have really kind of [stayed elevated],” Moore stated.
The economist notes that this separation between income and expenses marks an unusual departure from historical agricultural economic patterns, where farm revenues and production costs typically followed similar trajectories. The sustained period of elevated input expenses while revenues lag behind is creating budget pressures for farming operations across the region.
The City of Cambridge is encouraging residents to think about participating in their 2026 spring cleanup program.
The municipal initiative appears to be part of Cambridge’s ongoing community beautification efforts, though specific details about dates, locations, and collection procedures have not yet been announced.
Residents interested in learning more about the spring cleanup program can check the city’s civic alerts for additional information as it becomes available.
A Seaford resident is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say he targeted construction sites across Sussex County to steal appliances last fall.
James Deshields, 57, was taken into custody by Delaware State Police on February 17, 2026, in connection with a string of break-ins at homes still under construction during September 2025. According to investigators, Deshields would break into these properties and steal refrigerators or attempt to remove them, often severing water lines in the process and causing additional property damage.
The Sussex County Criminal Investigations Unit took over the case after multiple similar incidents were reported. Detectives discovered that witnesses had spotted a suspect along with a Honda CRV at various crime locations. Through their investigation, they identified Deshields as a person of interest and learned that both Georgetown and Seaford police departments were looking into comparable cases.
Deshields was initially taken into custody on September 23, 2025, for an unrelated offense. During that detention, investigators secured a DNA search warrant to test his genetic material against evidence gathered from one of the burglary locations. Although Deshields fought against providing the DNA sample, authorities were able to collect it and forward it to the Division of Forensic Science for analysis.
The forensic lab returned its findings earlier this month, which investigators used to connect Deshields to the crimes. An arrest warrant was then issued.
Following his February arrest, Deshields was processed at Troop 4 and appeared before Justice of the Peace Court 2. He was released after posting a $27,500 unsecured bond.
The charges against Deshields include three counts each of second-degree burglary, theft of $1,500 or more, and criminal mischief under $1,000. He also faces one count each of attempted theft of $1,500 or more, second-degree conspiracy, resisting arrest, and second-degree criminal trespass.
Two Smyrna residents found themselves in handcuffs Tuesday after police say they swiped packages from front porches in the downtown area.
Smyrna Police Department officers responded to a call on February 17, 2026, regarding stolen packages from a home in the first block of South Main Street. Following their investigation, law enforcement officials identified the alleged thieves as 27-year-old Angel Fish and 34-year-old Sean Cornwell, both residents of Smyrna.
Police were able to track down Fish and Cornwell quickly after the initial report, successfully retrieving the stolen merchandise. During the arrest process, investigators discovered the duo had also targeted a second home in the area, taking another package from that residence as well.
Two University of Delaware women’s tennis athletes have received recognition from Conference USA for their outstanding doubles performance.
Blue Hens players Maryia Hrynashka and Paulina Jurkowska were selected as the CUSA Women’s Tennis Doubles Team of the Week for February 18, according to Wednesday’s conference announcement from Dallas.
The weekly honor highlights the pair’s exceptional play on the court and adds to the University of Delaware’s growing list of conference accolades this season.
Maryland officials have given the green light to more than $7.1 million in state grants supporting recreational improvements and environmental protection efforts spanning seven counties, including several on the Eastern Shore.
The Maryland Board of Public Works endorsed the funding package, which will benefit Allegany, Cecil, Dorchester, Frederick, Kent, Queen Anne’s, and St. Mary’s counties through various Department of Natural Resources programs.
Recreation projects received the largest portion of funding, with over $3.6 million allocated through the Program Open Space – Local initiative for four separate endeavors. Two major recreation facilities will be developed with this money: Cecil County plans to build a new recreation center at Calvert Regional Park that will include an indoor track, sports courts, and community gathering spaces. Meanwhile, Dorchester County will upgrade the Thendara Center in Hurlock with kitchen and restroom improvements, plus replacement of an outdoor shooting facility.
An additional $73,000 from the Local Parks and Playgrounds Infrastructure Program will fund two smaller projects. Frederick County’s Thurmont will receive $19,000 toward constructing a pedestrian bridge on the Gateway Trail, while Kent County gets $53,000 to enhance the boardwalk and install new seating at Betterton Beach. This infrastructure program was established during fiscal years 2022 and 2023 specifically to support municipal and county park development.
Environmental conservation efforts also received substantial backing, with $522,000 designated for permanent conservation easements through the Rural Legacy program covering 262 acres in St. Mary’s County. The Patuxent Tidewater Land Trust will oversee protection of two separate properties – a 57-acre agricultural site and a 205-acre wooded area – within the Huntersville Rural Legacy Area. These preserved lands will safeguard 7,800 feet of predominantly forested stream corridors serving both the Patuxent River and Potomac River watersheds.
The board additionally approved nearly $2.9 million through the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program for acquiring conservation easements on 394 acres total. Queen Anne’s County will see protection of 290 combined acres that will preserve 2,500 feet of forested stream buffers along waterways feeding into Tuckahoe Creek. Kent County’s 104-acre easement, managed by the Eastern Shore Land Conservancy, will protect more than 9,000 feet along Tavern Creek, which flows into the Chester River.
Complete details about these approved items can be found in the Board of Public Works meeting materials from February 18, 2026. The board consists of three members: Governor Wes Moore, Treasurer Dereck E. Davis, and Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman.
The Program Open Space – Local component has operated since 1969 under the Department of Natural Resources, supporting county and municipal governments in planning, acquiring, and developing recreational properties and amenities. Property transfer taxes provide the program’s funding source.
Maryland’s Rural Legacy Program, launched in 1997, focuses on preserving extensive working landscapes across 36 designated areas statewide. Both this program and the Maryland Agricultural Land Preservation Foundation recently received national recognition from the American Farmland Trust.
The state’s Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program permanent easement option has operated since 2009, acquiring conservation agreements from voluntary participants that ensure continued maintenance of conservation practices beyond federal contract expiration dates.
A Catholic diocese in New Jersey near Philadelphia has reached an agreement to pay $180 million to settle clergy sexual abuse cases, marking another major payout in a scandal that has plagued the church for over twenty years.
The Camden diocese settlement requires bankruptcy court approval and follows years of the diocese resisting a state grand jury probe before cooperating last year.
Similar to dioceses across the nation, Camden declared bankruptcy while facing numerous lawsuits after states loosened statute of limitations laws.
This settlement joins a growing list of substantial payouts by Catholic Church organizations throughout the United States.
The Los Angeles Archdiocese reached an $880 million agreement in 2024 to compensate over 1,000 clergy abuse survivors from incidents spanning decades.
Covering Santa Barbara, Ventura and Los Angeles counties, this archdiocese had already distributed more than $740 million to survivors, bringing their combined payments above $1.5 billion.
In December, a federal judge approved the New Orleans Archdiocese’s commitment to pay at least $230 million to hundreds of clergy abuse survivors.
This agreement concluded lengthy negotiations and established safeguards aimed at preventing future abuse incidents. The archdiocese declared bankruptcy in 2020 to manage more than 500 abuse claims collectively rather than individually.
Back in 2007, San Diego’s Roman Catholic Diocese committed to a $198 million settlement covering more than 140 clergy abuse cases.
However, the diocese filed for bankruptcy in 2024 when confronted with approximately 400 new lawsuits alleging decades-old abuse by priests and other church personnel. These cases emerged after California removed statute of limitations restrictions on childhood sexual abuse claims in 2019.
The Oregon Province of the Society of Jesus, a Jesuit religious order, agreed in 2011 to distribute $166 million among more than 450 Native Americans and Alaska Natives who suffered abuse at the order’s educational institutions throughout the northwestern United States. This same order had previously settled another 110 abuse cases in Fairbanks, Alaska, for $50 million in 2007.
Orange County’s Roman Catholic Diocese finalized a $100 million settlement with approximately 90 abuse survivors in 2004, followed by an additional $7 million agreement three years later to resolve four more sexual abuse lawsuits.
Portland’s archdiocese became the first Catholic diocese to declare bankruptcy over abuse allegations in 2004 after resolving more than 100 cases. When the bankruptcy concluded three years later, the archdiocese had addressed over 300 claims and distributed nearly $90 million in settlements and legal costs. The archdiocese later agreed to pay almost $4 million in 2019 to settle eight additional clergy abuse claims.
Boston’s Roman Catholic Archdiocese committed to an $85 million settlement covering more than 500 clergy abuse lawsuits in 2003. The extensive nature of Boston’s abuse crisis sparked nationwide and international reporting on widespread priest abuse and institutional cover-up efforts.
The Diocese of Covington distributed more than $81 million to over 200 sexual abuse survivors through a 2006 court settlement. A diocesan report released in 2020 revealed that 59 Catholic priests and 31 other church-affiliated individuals had abused children since the 1950s.
Philadelphia’s Archdiocese has distributed more than $78 million to resolve 438 clergy sexual abuse claims as of 2022, according to official reports. In 2023, the archdiocese committed an additional $3.5 million to settle another abuse case.
The Catholic Diocese of Wilmington, serving Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore communities, committed to a $77 million settlement for approximately 150 clergy abuse survivors in 2011.
Oakland’s Diocese reached a $56 million agreement with 56 abuse survivors in 2005. The diocese declared bankruptcy in 2023 after facing more than 300 childhood sexual abuse lawsuits filed under a new state law that temporarily extended litigation time limits for such cases.
A Delaware State University researcher has secured significant federal funding to advance his work in agricultural science.
Dr. Vincent Fondong has been awarded a $1.13 million research grant to continue his investigations into potato virus studies. The substantial funding will support ongoing research efforts at the Dover-based university.
The grant represents a major investment in agricultural research at Delaware State University, where Dr. Fondong serves on the faculty. His work focuses on understanding viral infections that affect potato crops, research that could have important implications for agricultural production.
Delaware State University continues to attract significant research funding for faculty projects across various scientific disciplines. The university has been building its reputation as a research institution in recent years.
Details about the specific scope and timeline of Dr. Fondong’s potato virus research project were not immediately available.
Farmers and travelers throughout the Midwest are dealing with dangerous winter conditions as heavy snow and strong winds batter agricultural regions from North Dakota and northeastern South Dakota through the upper Great Lakes area. The severe weather is creating hazardous driving conditions and putting additional strain on farm animals.
Northern sections of Lower Michigan are experiencing freezing rain, adding to the challenging conditions, while light rain showers are moving through eastern farming areas of the Corn Belt. The contrast is stark compared to much of the rest of the nation, which continues to see temperatures well above normal for this time of year.
Transportation officials are urging caution in affected areas as the combination of snow, wind, and icy conditions makes travel treacherous. Livestock producers are taking extra precautions to protect their animals from the harsh weather conditions.
Drivers using Clay Road should expect delays this afternoon as construction crews have shut down the left lane in both directions between Wescoats Road and Marsh Road.
According to DelDOT traffic officials, the lane closure is necessary for ongoing construction activities in the area. The restriction is expected to be lifted by 3 PM today.
Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and use caution when navigating through the work zone. Traffic may be reduced to single-lane conditions during peak construction periods.
Two standout players from Salisbury University’s highly-ranked baseball program have earned national recognition for their exceptional early-season performances.
Pitcher Aidan Brinsfield and third baseman Jackson Inman from the fifth-ranked Sea Gulls were named to D3baseball.com’s inaugural National Team of the Week for 2026, the organization announced Wednesday morning.
The prestigious weekly honor recognizes the top Division III baseball performers across the country, putting both Salisbury athletes in the national spotlight for their outstanding contributions to the team’s strong start to the season.
Both players helped elevate their already impressive programs to national attention, with their stellar performances earning them spots among the nation’s elite Division III baseball talent for the week.
An active weather pattern continues across the Mid-Atlantic, and are now monitoring the potential for a coastal storm to impact the Delmarva Peninsula during the second half of the weekend.
While details remain uncertain, confidence is increasing that a developing area of low pressure will track west to east across the region late Sunday before strengthening offshore along the northern Mid-Atlantic coast. But there is also key details I’m not very fond of trusting.
Storm Track Will Determine Impacts
Most computer models show a storm developing and passing near the region Sunday. However, the exact track and strength of the surface low will ultimately determine how impactful this system becomes for Delmarva.
Recent trends in both deterministic and ensemble guidance have nudged the system slightly farther south and east. That shift could reduce overall impacts totals locally if it continues. Still, there remains a signal for a widespread precipitation event across the peninsula.
If the storm tracks close enough to the coast, stronger dynamics could enhance precipitation rates. At this stage, it is too early to determine rain and even snowfall amounts or pinpoint exact impacts.
Cold Air Will Be Key
The amount of cold air in place ahead of and during the storm will play a major role in determining precipitation type and accumulation potential.
Forecast guidance suggests that sufficient cold air may be present for accumulating snow across Delmarva if the storm tracks favorably. However, small shifts in the storm’s path could significantly change the outcome.
Relying On a Norlun Trough & Dynamic Cooling Never Fair Well For Delmarva
A Norlun trough is a narrow, elongated area of low pressure that can develop between two larger weather systems, often in New England or the northern Mid-Atlantic.
These features often form in cold, unstable air behind a departing coastal storm or between competing pressure systems. They can be difficult to forecast because they are small-scale and highly sensitive to subtle atmospheric changes.
On Delmarva, Norlun troughs are less common than in New England, but similar narrow deformation bands can produce comparable localized snowfall.
Dynamic cooling refers to a process where strong upward motion in the atmosphere causes temperatures to cool rapidly, sometimes enough to change rain to snow.
If precipitation falls heavily enough, it can also contribute to cooling through melting and evaporation, reinforcing the transition to snow.
Much Colder Air Early Next Week
Behind the potential weekend storm, a notably colder air mass is expected to settle into the region early next week.
High temperatures Monday and Tuesday may struggle to climb out of the 30s across Delmarva, with overnight lows dropping into the teens in many locations. The colder conditions could lead to icy spots lingering if snowfall occurs over the weekend.
Multiple weather systems are making their way across the United States this week, with one potentially affecting the East Coast by the weekend.
Meteorologists report that a weather disturbance currently positioned over the upper Midwest is expected to lose strength and remain stationary in the coming days. Meanwhile, another system moving through the Intermountain West is forecast to advance toward the Great Lakes area by Friday.
A third storm system originating from the Pacific Ocean is projected to make landfall in California on Thursday. This weather pattern is then anticipated to move quickly eastward, potentially reaching either the mid-Atlantic or southern Atlantic coastal regions by Saturday.
Delaware area seniors looking to better understand their Medicare options can attend free virtual workshops being offered by Virginia Farm Bureau Health Insurance over the coming months.
The educational sessions will cover Medicare qualification requirements, when to enroll, and the various coverage plans available to beneficiaries. Six different workshop times are scheduled to give participants flexibility in choosing when to attend:
April 15 at 10 a.m.
May 27 at 6 p.m.
June 4 at 2 p.m.
July 15 at 10 a.m.
Aug. 20 at 6 p.m.
Sept. 10 at 10 a.m.
Those interested can sign up for their preferred session through the organization’s website. The workshops are free and open to everyone, with participants able to join using a computer, smartphone, tablet, or by calling in on a regular phone. For those who need it, closed captioning will be provided during the presentations.
Motorists in Bear should expect delays on eastbound Christiana Road this afternoon due to a lane restriction.
The Delaware Department of Transportation reports that the right lane of Route 7 eastbound is currently blocked between Pulaski Highway (Route 40) and Newton Road.
Officials say the lane closure will remain in effect until 3 PM today. Drivers are advised to use caution in the area and consider alternate routes if possible.
State education officials are taking steps to shut down a Delaware charter school after identifying serious problems with its operations.
The Charter School Accountability Committee within Delaware’s Department of Education voted Tuesday to pursue closure of the Bryan Allen Stevenson School of Excellence, commonly known as BASSE. The panel cited multiple issues including problems with student enrollment numbers, financial management, and organizational structure.
Community members will have a chance to weigh in on the closure proposal during a public hearing set for 5 p.m. on March 9. The meeting will take place at Delaware Technical Community College’s Owens Campus located in Georgetown.
The hearing will also include time for public comments regarding the committee’s recommendation to terminate the school’s operating charter.
NEWARK, Del. – The University of Delaware’s Department of Athletics, Community, and Campus Recreation has unveiled a time-sensitive fundraising initiative called “302 for the 302.”
The campaign aims to secure donations from 302 supporters for Delaware Athletics within a 302-hour timeframe. The fundraising effort started Wednesday, February 18 at 10 a.m. and will conclude on Monday, March 2 at 11:59 p.m.
Those interested in contributing to the campaign can make donations by visiting bluehens.com.
A developing storm system will bring a steady round of rain to the Delmarva Peninsula late Thursday through Friday, delivering a beneficial soaking rainfall to a region that remains in drought.
Cool, Cloudy Start Thursday
Thursday will begin under mostly cloudy skies as a backdoor cold front settles south of the area. High pressure building over New England will promote a northeast wind, keeping temperatures cooler than recent days.
Highs are expected to run near or slightly below seasonal averages. The combination of low clouds, onshore flow, and increasing moisture may also lead to areas of fog Thursday morning, with pockets of dense fog possible.
Rain Moves In Thursday Evening
Rain is expected to overspread Delmarva Thursday evening as low pressure tracks through the region Thursday night into Friday. While northern Pennsylvania and far northern New Jersey may see some wintry precipitation, temperatures across Delmarva will remain warm enough to support an all-rain event.
The system appears fairly quick-moving but may produce periods of off-and-on rain from Thursday evening through Friday night. Overall, this looks to be a steady soaking rainfall rather than a high-impact storm.
Rainfall Totals and Drought Relief
Current projections suggest rainfall totals ranging from 0.50 to 0.75 inches across much of Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
Given ongoing drought conditions across the region, this rain will be welcomed. While it won’t erase long-term deficits, it should help improve soil moisture and reduce short-term dryness.
Fog and Low Visibility Possible
As milder, moist air rides over cooler surface air, areas of fog may develop at times, especially late Thursday night into Friday morning. Motorists should be prepared for reduced visibility during periods of heavier rain and fog.
Good news for morning commuters across the Delmarva Peninsula – a Dense Fog Advisory that impacted the region this morning is showing signs of improvement as visibility begins to rise.
The National Weather Service issued the advisory at 9:38 AM, affecting parts of Delaware including New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties, along with Queen Anne’s County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The advisory extends into New Jersey and Pennsylvania, covering a broad swath of the Mid-Atlantic region.
While the fog created hazardous driving conditions earlier this morning with visibility dropping significantly, meteorologists report conditions are steadily improving. The advisory is set to expire at 10:45 AM.
Drivers should continue to exercise caution during the morning commute, using low-beam headlights and maintaining safe following distances. Even as visibility improves, patchy fog may linger in some areas.
For those traveling on major routes including Routes 1, 13, and 50, conditions should continue to clear throughout the morning hours. The improving weather pattern suggests clearer skies ahead for the remainder of Tuesday.
Stay with TV Delmarva for continued weather updates and traffic conditions throughout your morning commute.
Weather officials issued a short-lived dense fog advisory for the Delmarva Peninsula early this morning as thick fog reduced visibility across the region.
The National Weather Service office in Mount Holly, New Jersey activated the advisory at 9:38 AM on February 18th, warning residents of hazardous driving conditions due to severely limited visibility.
The foggy conditions cleared quickly, with meteorologists canceling the advisory at 10:00 AM the same day after visibility improved throughout the area.
During dense fog events, the National Weather Service typically advises drivers to reduce speed, use low-beam headlights, and maintain extra distance between vehicles to ensure safe travel.
A Dense Fog Advisory remains in effect until 10 AM this morning across much of the Delmarva Peninsula, creating hazardous travel conditions with visibility dropping to just a quarter mile or less in some areas.
The National Weather Service warns that patchy ice is also forming due to freezing fog, making road conditions particularly treacherous. The advisory covers New Castle, Kent, and Sussex counties in Delaware, along with Queen Anne’s County on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
Drivers are experiencing significantly reduced visibility on major roadways, including Routes 1, 13, and 50. The combination of dense fog and potential icy patches creates a double threat for morning commuters.
Transportation officials are urging extreme caution for anyone who must travel. Drivers should slow down considerably, use low-beam headlights, and maintain extra following distance. High-beam headlights should be avoided as they can reflect off the fog and actually reduce visibility further.
The fog is expected to gradually lift as temperatures warm throughout the morning. The advisory expires at 10 AM, but motorists should continue to exercise caution even after conditions begin to improve.
For the latest traffic updates and road conditions, stay tuned to TV Delmarva and check our website before heading out.
Lewes residents have the opportunity to examine their city’s property assessment records for 2026, according to a notice from municipal officials.
The comprehensive assessment documentation can be accessed at the City Manager’s Office inside City Hall at 114 E. Third Street in Lewes. For those who prefer digital access, the records are also available through the city’s website.
The public review period runs from February 13, 2026, through March 6, 2026, giving property owners and interested residents approximately three weeks to examine the assessment information.
