Satirical news sweeps Delmarva
The Boardwalk Barker is fetching headlines with questionable sources. This website with satirical stories is covering local and national issues in a salty way. Drew, the local Cape Henlopen High School alum behind the fake news outlet, is working to use Boardwalk Barker as a creative outlet that brings a comedic voice to local matters across Delmarva.
Drew launched his website in October, filling it with news stories, obituaries, historic flashbacks and a unique shop with Boardwalk Barker merchandise. The staff listed on the site could be misleading; Drew likes to write under various pseudonyms to keep his writing anonymous. He recently launched a holiday collection of merchandise where viewers can support him. As the founder and editor in chief of the operation, Drew is behind all aspects of the website and puts in a lot of hours.
“Right now, it is a labor of love,” he said. “I have been getting plenty of support, and the whole process has been wonderful.”
A week after the website’s launch, there was a huge increase in viewers. Drew has been consistently working on revamping the website since his viral spike, while also building his social media presence on the platforms X, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook and TikTok.
After constantly thinking of humorous story ideas, Drew decided to make his creative dreams a reality. His first article on the website was about Cape-Ville: a theme village created by the Schell Brothers planned for Cape Henlopen State Park. His ideas started flowing, and he began to write more satirical stories, such as a Lewes man, Greg Millard, successfully booking a dental appointment. There are many other elements to the site, including “Dear Karen,” who is an advice columnist.
“I think that people seem to appreciate a local voice that brings a salty viewpoint to the absurdity of our life here on Delmarva,” Drew said.
Drew tries to serve as a voice for other people who see and feel the same way about local things. The Boardwalk Barker also gives readers the opportunity to share their insights via email.
“There are things that need to be said about our community,” Drew said.
He keeps his satire lighthearted by sharing his original ideas with the community made by fake people with fake quotes in fake stories. When asked why he does not like to mention local names, he said, “I think good satire punches up, not punches down.”
Not only does Drew like to keep sources anonymous, but he also chooses to keep his full name a mystery.
“I would rather have everyone enjoy the point of view I put across with Boardwalk Barker. That is the voice I want people to hear,” he said.
