A tractor malfunction in Betterton, led to the discovery of a uniquely grooved, man-made stone artifact that is sparking a wave of historical exploration in Kent County. The find occurred at Turner’s Creek, an area rich with layers of history beginning with Native American occupation, then colonial settlement, early American agriculture, and also maritime commerce.   Former U.S. Congressman and current Betterton Councilman Wayne Gilchrest was driving a tractor to prepare a local field for a youth farming project when the machinery encountered operational trouble.  When mechanics inspected the vehicle they found the issue was caused by an unusual stone wedged into the equipment.    The object was taken to Professor Julie Markin, Chair of Anthropology and Archaeology at Washington College.  Dr. Markin noted several possibilities for the origin of the item, but will continue to study the artifact to make a determination. 

The Blood Bank of Delmarva is one of many blood banks running low on blood supply.  A nationwide blood shortage has been declared by the American Red Cross, marking it the second crisis in the organization’s history.   The summer season tends to run dry since schools are on break and many people are on vacation, making blood drives scarce.   With low blood supply, hospitals are struggling to give patients the care they need and delaying surgeries.   Tony Prado, communications specialist at  the Blood Bank of Delmarva  says hospitals are in dire need of blood orders and the Red Cross is having difficulty filling those orders.  For more information on how to donate in your community, visit delmarvablood.org.