Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Jack Ford
Devastating spring freeze wipes out apple crop at Freehold's Battleview Orchards
Devastating spring freeze wipes out apple crop at Freehold's Battleview Orchards Jack Ford • Sep 6, 2026, 1:54 PM • Updated Share: Apple-picking season will look starkly different across New Jersey this fall, as a late-spring freeze has wiped out the crop at the state's oldest pick-your-own orchard. Battleview Orchards in Freehold announced that it will not offer apple picking this season due to severe damage caused by a late April freeze.
Whitehouse Station Rescue Squad adds sensory bags to help patients with autism, communication needs
The Whitehouse Station Rescue Squad has added a new tool, or tools, to every ambulance in its fleet. A small blue bag packed with items meant to help first responders connect with patients who may have autism or other sensory and communication needs. Inside you’ll find noise-canceling headphones, various fidget toys, sunglasses, a whiteboard and markers, and ‘communication cards’ that use colors and common phrases to help someone who may be non-verbal communicate danger, safety, and discomfort.
Made in New Jersey: Handcrafted dinnerware takes center stage at Jono Pandolfi’s Union City studio
A deep dive into New Jersey’s design world brings viewers inside a Union City studio where artisans handcraft the dinnerware found in Michelin‑starred restaurants around the world. Jono Pandolfi’s team shapes each piece by hand inside the light‑filled workspace. Pandolfi says his love for clay began in high school, where he first discovered the medium and the permanence of the objects he created.
Berlin Raises $10K Through Street Sign Auction for Community Center Project
BERLIN — The Town of Berlin has raised more than $10,000 through an online auction of retired street signs, with proceeds going toward the development of a new community center on Flower Street. More than 140 signs were sold in the auction, which concluded at noon on Tuesday. “There were some signs that had 30 bids on them, some just a few,” said Sara Gorfinkel, executive assistant to Berlin’s mayor.
Sand Bypass System in Testing at Indian River Inlet to Combat Coastal Erosion
SUSSEX COUNTY — Sand is set to flow once again across the Indian River Inlet as Delaware’s Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) begins testing its long-idle sand bypass system — a long-anticipated step aimed at addressing chronic erosion on the north side of the inlet. The bypass system, which pumps sand from the south side of the inlet to the erosion-prone north side, has been offline for several years.
Extreme Heat Pushes HVAC Systems to the Limit Across Delmarva
DELMARVA — As scorching temperatures continue across Delmarva, residents are relying heavily on air conditioning to stay cool — and HVAC technicians say the systems are feeling the strain. Real HVAC Services, a local heating and cooling company, has seen a spike in calls. “The extra heat is really hard on the system,” said technician Ben Carter.
Talbot County Removes DEI Statement Amid Federal Funding Concerns
EASTON, MD — Talbot County Council voted 4-1 Tuesday night to remove a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) statement from the county’s employee handbook, citing concerns about losing federal funding tied to infrastructure projects. The decision comes as the county undertakes a major expansion at Easton Airport — a project that relies heavily on federal grants. “It’s always been fiscal in nature,” said Councilman Dave Stepp of the decision.
Talbot County Considers Stricter Short-Term Rental Rules, Faces Pushback
EASTON, MD — Short-term rentals in Talbot County could soon face tighter regulations, as county officials prepare to discuss potential changes in a workshop Tuesday afternoon. The proposals are sparking concern among some local rental businesses. The Talbot County Council will consider several amendments, including a minimum stay increase, new licensing classifications, and expanded reporting requirements for rental operators.
New Public Parking Lot Eyed in Dewey Beach
DEWEY BEACH, DE — A new public parking lot may soon come to the bayside of Dewey Beach, following town commissioners' recent approval of a conditional-use permit for the site of the former Ivy Restaurant on Dagsworthy Avenue. The property, which was initially discussed for residential development, will house the public parking facility operated by Highway One—the same company that manages an adjacent lot on the same property.
With Penny Production Ending, Penny Presses May Face Uncertain Future
OCEAN CITY, MD – The U.S. Treasury Department confirmed last week that penny production will cease in early 2026, and while cashless payment methods become increasingly common, there's one niche attraction that still relies on the coins: the penny press. A longtime boardwalk staple, penny press machines allow folks to insert a one-cent coin, crank a handle, and receive a flattened souvenir with an engraved design.
Dewey Beach Cracks Down on Jaywalking Ahead of Summer Crowds
DEWEY BEACH – Dewey Beach officials are stepping up enforcement of jaywalking violations, a move town leaders say is part of a broader effort to improve pedestrian safety ahead of the busy summer season. While jaywalking has long been illegal, town commissioners say citations will now be issued more frequently and will carry a $50 fine.
Rehoboth Beach Reacts to Biden’s Cancer Diagnosis
REHOBOTH BEACH – News broke Sunday night that former President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with what is being described as an “aggressive form” of prostate cancer. The announcement has prompted an outpouring of support from across the political spectrum—and from Rehoboth Beach, a community closely tied to the 46th president during his time in office. President Biden and Rehoboth Beach became synonymous during his presidency.
DelDOT Lowers Speed Limits on Route 1 Following Safety Concerns
SUSSEX COUNTY — Drivers heading along Route 1 will need to ease off the gas, as DelDOT has implemented new speed limit reductions from Dewey Beach to the Maryland state line. The group’s founder, Seth Hamed, said he launched the coalition in response to what he described as dangerous road conditions along the corridor. “The problem was the speed limit — 55 miles per hour. Looks like a drag strip,” Hamed said.
Controversy over Potential Relocation of Police Memorials in Georgetown
GEORGETOWN, DE — There is controversy in Georgetown over possibly relocating the memorials honoring fallen Patrolman Chad Spicer and Chief Harvey Gregg Jr., though no official plans have been made. The Spicer memorial, which stood in The Circle since May 2011, featured Spicer’s image and detailed his life and the events surrounding his death in the line of duty. In November 2023, a vehicle crashed into the memorial, knocking it over. The site remains empty. Spicer, 29, was fatally shot on Sept.
Food Truck Tuesdays Could Return to Georgetown After Six-Year Hiatus
GEORGETOWN, DE — Food trucks could soon be rolling back into downtown Georgetown, as town leaders consider reviving the pre-pandemic event known as “Food Truck Tuesday.” At Monday night’s town council meeting, officials will discuss bringing the event back to East Market Street, with a proposal that would host food trucks on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month from May through August.
Beekeepers sound the alarm over historic bee die-offs
SALISBURY, Md. (WBOC) - Beekeepers are sounding the alarm over the dramatic spikes in honey bee die-offs. Hundreds of millions of bees have died in the past several months, and it’s unknown what’s to blame, according to experts. Beekeepers said the impact may soon be felt not only at farms, but also at your local grocery store. Creating the perfect environment is a labor of love for beekeepers like Tom Babcock. It helps the bugs thrive, produce honey, and pollinate.
Pollinators in Peril: Local Beekeepers Sound Alarm over Historic Bee Losses
DELMARVA - Bee distributors and keepers have reported mysterious and dramatic spikes in honey bee die-offs recently, and local beekeepers say the impacts of the deaths may soon be felt at farms and grocery stores if they continue. Hundreds of millions of bees have died in the past eight months, according to experts, threatening to plunge beekeepers and farmers - both here on Delmarva and nationally - into a crisis. There is currently no consensus on what is causing the die-offs.
FBI Roadblock Could Delay Delaware’s Marijuana Industry Launch
DELAWARE - The launch of Delaware’s legal marijuana industry, originally set for this spring, may be delayed due to an issue with federal background checks. The FBI denied Delaware’s request to conduct mandatory criminal background checks for the state’s recreational marijuana market, citing a lack of specific language in state law. Officials from the State Bureau of Identification and the Delaware Department of Justice worked to obtain a federal service code for the checks.
Warm and Breezy Monday Ahead of Severe Weather Risk Overnight
MONDAY: There's an enhanced risk severe thunderstorms tonight as they move in west ahead of a cold front that is making it's way across the country. Damaging straight line winds will be the real threat, with gusts up to 60mph possible. These storms will also have pockets of heavy downpours so flooding in low-lying areas is not out of the realm of possibility either.
Heavy Rain to Start Monday Morning
MONDAY - There's some incredibly heavy rain out the door this morning across the peninsula. This storm will begin to move out in the next few hours, though, clearing by around 10AM. Out the door this morning please be extra careful on the roads, the downpour has lead to some roads flooding, puddling, and overall extremely poor driving conditions. After the showers, temperatures will remain in the mid 50's and clouds and some strong winds (20-30mph gusts) will hang around.
Wildfire Risk Grows in Delaware as Drought Conditions Persist
DELAWARE - State and local officials are warning Delaware residents of an increased wildfire risk as dry conditions, high winds, and low humidity continue to fuel fire outbreaks across the state. The Delaware Forest Service is urging residents to refrain from outdoor burning, citing a surge in wildfires in all three counties. From November 2024 through February 2025, the state has reported more than 420 outdoor fires, a sharp rise from previous years.
Indian River Volunteer Fire Company Seeks Community Support for Expansion
MILLSBORO, DE – As Sussex County continues to grow, so does the demand on emergency services. The Indian River Volunteer Fire Company is looking to expand, with plans for a new facility to better serve the increasing number of calls. Standing adjacent to the current station on Banks Road near Millsboro, the proposed expansion would include a $3.5 million facility with four new truck bays, a training room, and additional space to accommodate the department’s needs.
Sussex County Forms Land Use Reform Working Group to Address Growth
GEORGETOWN, DE – Sussex County is taking a proactive approach to managing its rapid growth with the formation of the Land Use Reform Working Group, a committee aimed at balancing development with preservation. The group was appointed at Tuesday’s County Council meeting and will begin meeting in the coming weeks to discuss ways the County can address the pace and intensity of residential development in southern Delaware.
Blood Bank of Delmarva Temporarily Closes Salisbury Location
SALISBURY, Md. – The Blood Bank of Delmarva has temporarily closed its Salisbury donation center on Mount Hermon Road. The location was one of five physical donation centers serving the Delmarva Peninsula, but with its closure, Maryland now has no active branches. The nearest location for Salisbury residents is in Dagsboro, Delaware, at least a 40-minute drive away.
Wicomico County Council Revises Controversial Kennel Legislation
WICOMICO COUNTY, MD - The Wicomico County Council is walking back a controversial bill that initially imposed strict restrictions on kennel locations, a move that could have put existing businesses at risk. During Tuesday’s meeting, council members acknowledged the flaws in their original decision, calling it a mistake. The revised bill reduces the setback requirement for kennels from 1,000 feet to 500 feet from the nearest home.
‘No Kings on Presidents Day’ Protest Draws Crowds in Delaware and Across the Nation
DOVER, DE – Demonstrators gathered at state capitals nationwide Monday for the "No Kings on Presidents Day" protest, a movement organized nationally by the Fifty-Fifty-One coalition to push back against what they call executive overreach. In Delaware, dozens of protesters assembled on the steps of Legislative Hall in Dover, joining the national demonstration against the Trump administration.
Wet and Windy Thursday Morning
DELMARVA FORECAST Thursday: Morning rain. Scattered showers in the afternoon. Mild and windy. Southwest winds could gust to 25 mph or more at times. Highs in the low 50s. Chance of rain 90 percent. Friday: Partly cloudy. Mild. Highs in the mid 50s. Saturday: A wintry mix possible in the afternoon. Highs around 40°F. Chance of precipitation 60 percent. Sunday: Partly cloudy and breezy. Chance of a few showers in the morning. Highs in the upper 50s. Monday: A wintry mix possible. Highs in the low to mid 40s.
Cold Wednesday, Eyes On Wintry Weather Tonight
DELMARVA FORECAST Wednesday: Increasing clouds with a wintry mix of rain, freezing rain, and/or sleet developing in the afternoon and evening. Cold. Highs in the mid to upper 30s. Chance of precipitation 30 percent. Wednesday night: A wintry mix of rain, freezing rain, and/or sleet early, changing to plain rain after midnight. Lows in the low 30s. Chance of precipitation 80 percent. Thursday: Morning rain. Mild and windy. Southeast winds could gust to 25 mph or more at times. Highs in the low 50s.
Egg Prices Continue to Rise, Local Restaurants Feel the Pinch
MARYLAND - Egg prices are cracking local restaurants’ budgets as costs continue to rise across the country. The U.S. Department of Agriculture egg prices will climb at least 20% in 2025. In December, the cost of a dozen eggs averaged $4.15, an increase of nearly 37% compared to the same time last year. At the Delmar Diner, owner Yunus Emre Akilli said the soaring prices are cutting into profits, forcing the business to consider raising menu prices—a move they’d prefer to avoid.
Milton Family’s Speed Camera Website Sparks Community Controversy
MILTON, DE – A Milton family frustrated with frequent speeding on their street has launched a website to document the problem, but the initiative has ignited debate over their approach. Joel DeMott, who lives on Atlantic St., set up multiple cameras outside his home and created MiltonSpeeders.com to livestream footage of vehicles allegedly exceeding the speed limit. DeMott said the effort was a last resort to address safety concerns for his family. As well as produce proof that their was an issue.
Icy Conditions Close Two Delmarva River Ferries
DELMARVA - Freezing weather has disrupted more than just roads across Delmarva; icy conditions has forced the on and off closure of the Woodland Ferry near Seaford and the Upper Ferry in Salisbury on Monday, leaving some commuters frustrated. Mike Wessels, who lives near the Upper Ferry landing, says closures can be an inconvenience for many. “When we’re going that direction, it adds 30-40 minutes to our trip. So we sure miss it when it’s closed!” Wessels said.
Bird Flu Fears Escalate on Delmarva as Dead Birds Found on Beaches
DELAWARE - Concerns about avian flu are growing across Delmarva, with confirmed cases in Sussex County affecting both livestock and wild snow geese. At Cape Henlopen State Park, one man’s weekend walk turned into a disturbing encounter. Jack Hartford, who lives in Lewes, said he was shocked by what he discovered during a stroll to the lighthouse on Saturday. “In our mile down to see the lighthouse, we encountered at least 15-20 birds before we just lost count,” Hartford said.
Trump Supporters Celebrate Locally After Weather Alters Inauguration Plans
SALISBURY, MD — While millions of Americans tuned in to watch Donald Trump take the oath of office as the 47th president, a group of supporters in Salisbury found a local way to celebrate after weather altered their original plans for Inauguration Day. Around 30 Trump supporters from Delmarva had planned to bus to Washington, D.C. When the weather forced a change, the group gathered at Lombardi's in Salisbury instead, cheering as Trump was sworn in.
Cold and Windy Day Comes to Delmarva Wednesday
DELMARVA FORECAST Wednesday: Sunny, cold, and windy. Northwest winds could gust to 30 mph or more at times. Highs in the low 30s, feeling like the low 20s. Thursday: Mostly sunny, cold, and breezy. Highs in the mid to upper 30s. Friday: Increasing clouds. Not as cold. Highs in the low 40s. Saturday: Mostly cloudy with scattered showers in the afternoon and evening. Mild. Highs near 50°F. Chance of rain 60 percent. Sunday: Mostly cloudy with a few showers. Highs in the mid 40s. Chance of rain 30 percent.
Sunny and Warmer Monday Brings a Brief Relief from the Cold
Monday is our warmest day we've had in a while! Temperatures will reach the mid 40's in the afternoon with sun in the sky and clear skies as well. Wind gusts will be moderate, just up to around 10mph at most for much of the day. That's not the story for the rest of the week, though. Tuesday mostly in the low to mid 30s for the afternoon with winds becoming gusty, up to 30mph, especially near the coast. Temps quickly drop overnight with lows in the low/mid teens.
UPDATE: Governor Carney, DNREC Sign Agreement With US Wind
DELAWARE - The agreement details renewable energy, community, and lease benefits to Delaware and its residents worth more than $128 million. Governor John Carney and the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) announced the agreement on Jan. 6. It comes ahead of two proposed offshore wind projects from US Wind in the coming years. The finalization of the agreements came after US Wind received needed federal and state environmental and permit approvals in Dec.
Laurel School District Implements Weapon Screenings Following Teen Shooting Incident
LAUREL, DE — The Laurel School District is increasing safety measures, announcing that weapon detection systems at Laurel Middle and High School will now be used for the foreseeable future. The decision follows the arrest of a 14-year-old in connection to a weekend shooting in the community. The district’s superintendent, Dr. Shawn Larrimore, announced the move in a statement posted on Facebook, emphasizing the importance of student and staff safety.
Georgetown Firefighter Thomas Berry III Honored With Memorial Holiday Tribute
GEORGETOWN, DE — Four months after the loss of firefighter Thomas Berry III, who died on August 13 while responding to a crash on Route 9, the Georgetown Fire Company is keeping his memory alive with a heartfelt holiday tribute. Inside the firehouse, Berry’s gear hook remains empty—a silent reminder of his service and sacrifice. Chief Mark Rogers said his presence is deeply felt by his fellow firefighters.
Community Rallies Around Sal’s Italian Restaurant After Negative Social Media Post
SEAFORD, DE — A social media post criticizing Sal’s Italian Restaurant in Seaford sparked an overwhelming wave of community support, bringing scores of loyal and new customers to the family-owned eatery. The post, which said they threw their pizza in the trash and described Sal's as a "dump," quickly turned into a rallying cry for customers eager to counter the criticism. Hundreds of comments poured in online, and hundreds turned up to support the restaurant.
Smith Island’s Mary Ada Marshall Finds Sweet Success After "60 Minutes" Appearance
SMITH ISLAND, MD – Life has been anything but quiet for Mary Ada Marshall, a beloved Smith Island cake maker, since her feature on CBS's 60 Minutes aired this past Sunday. The segment shined a brief spotlight on Marshall’s life and work, sharing her story—and her cakes—with a national audience. Almost immediately, the phones started ringing. As calls poured in from across the country to order cakes, Marshall reflected on the whirlwind experience.
Friends Mourn the Loss of Beloved Smith Island Captain Larry Laird
SMITH ISLAND, MD – The Smith Island and Crisfield communities are in mourning after the passing of Larry Laird, the 78-year-old captain of the Jason 2 ferry. For 35 years, Captain Laird served as the lifeline between Smith Island and the mainland, bringing supplies and connection to the island's residents. Laird, who passed away this Wednesday, was remembered by friends and neighbors as more than a skilled captain. He was a man with a larger-than-life personality and an even bigger heart.
Thanksgiving Meal Costs Drop, but Wallets Still Feel the Pinch
SALISBURY, MD – Thanksgiving is just a day away, and while grocery stores are bustling with last-minute shoppers, there’s mixed news about prices. According to the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), the cost of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner for ten has dropped nationally by about 5% compared to last year. But shoppers on Delmarva say they’re not feeling much relief.
Thanksgiving for Thousands packs meals for families across Delmarva
SELBYVILLE, Del. — A Thanksgiving tradition of giving returned to Delmarva as Mountaire Farms hosted its 30th annual "Thanksgiving for Thousands" event. Hundreds of volunteers gathered in Selbyville to pack boxes of Thanksgiving meals for families in need. The meal boxes include chicken, corn, green beans, cranberry sauce, yams, stuffing, gravy, and brownie mix for dessert, all carefully packed in the spirit of community giving.
Mountaire Farms Celebrates 30 Years of Thanksgiving for Thousands
SELBYVILLE, DE – A Thanksgiving tradition of giving back returned to Delmarva as Mountaire Farms hosted its 30th annual Thanksgiving for Thousands event in Selbyville. This year, hundreds of volunteers gathered to pack approximately 14,500 boxes of Thanksgiving food for families in need. The event, now three decades strong, is a hallmark of community generosity.
Cape Henlopen School District Faces Funding Challenges, Third Referendum Considered
LEWES, DE – The Cape Henlopen School District continues to grapple with funding issues for several projects, including expanding the high school, purchasing property for a new district office, and constructing a pool. Despite previous efforts, the district may be forced to turn to voters for another referendum next year. The district has already tried twice this year to secure approval for funding. In March, voters rejected a referendum proposing a tax increase to fund these projects.
USDA Issues Disaster Designation for Accomack County Due to Drought
ACCOMACK CO., VA - The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has designated Accomack and Northampton Counties as primary natural disaster areas as severe drought conditions persist on the Commonwealth’s Eastern Shore. The USDA says Accomack has been experiencing a drought and excessive heat since April 16, 2024. On November 15th, the Secretary of Agriculture approved the primary disaster designation for 62 Virginia counties including Accomack and Northampton.
Rain on the Way After a Cloudy Day
DELMARVA FORECAST Thursday: Mostly cloudy early, then showers likely in the late afternoon and evening; rain is most likely on the Lower Eastern Shore into Virginia. Highs in the mid 50s. Chance of rain 70 percent. Friday: Showers early, then becoming mostly sunny. Highs in the mid 50s. Chance of rain 20 percent. Saturday: Sunny. Highs in the low 60s. Sunday: Mostly sunny and mild. Highs in the low mid 60s. Monday: Partly cloudy with a chance of showers. Highs in the mid 60s. Chance of rain 20 percent.
WBOC WEATHER 11/2/2024
Rain has finally made its way to Delmarva! Temperatures will remain warm in the AM, with your lowest in the 60 degree range. The rain will begin to clear around 8AM. As we work our way through the day, temperatures will increase slightly above our seasonable average to 71 degrees around 2PM. The cloud coverage from Sunday will also begin to clear around noon, leaving us with a sunny and warm afternoon.
Drought Continues on Delmarva, Setting Record Dryness
DELMARVA - As October closes, the drought on Delmarva shows no sign of easing. If no rain arrives by Thursday, October could become the driest month in Delaware's recorded history. According to the National Weather Service data, Georgetown Airport’s previous record for the driest month was set in October 1963 with just 0.09 inches of rainfall. So far this October, rainfall has been recorded at 0.00 inches, with no traceable moisture.
Incumbent Shupe, Challenger Baltazar-Lopez Vie for Delaware’s 36th District Seat
SUSSEX COUNTY, DE — Incumbent Republican Bryan Shupe and Democratic challenger Rony Baltazar-Lopez are vying for Delaware’s 36th District seat, a position held by Republicans for over 40 years. Shupe, a Milford business owner and former Mayor of Milford, says the district needs a Republican representative to counter Delaware’s Democratic-controlled legislature. “This seat here in the 36th District represents a vote against the status quo,” Shupe said.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with Jack
Contact Jack, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack