Wilmington, DE – Highlighting the state’s fiscally responsible approach, all three credit ratings agencies announced this week that Delaware has received a triple-A credit rating, the highest mark a government agency can achieve.

In issuing their determinations, Moody’s Investors Service, Fitch Ratings, and Standard & Poor’s Rating Services recognized the strength of Delaware’s economy and labor market, as well as the state’s fiscal practices, such as maintaining significant reserves and providing frequent revenue forecasts. Moody’s specifically noted the addition of 9,600 new jobs in the last year, including steady growth in the state’s financial sector. The agency also mentioned strong financial management “characteristics” and “policies” to support the rating decision.

Fitch echoes those findings, adding that Delaware’s recent employment growth has exceeded the nation’s. Fitch reports that “growth through August 2014 has been very positive with the state recording a 2.7 percent year-over-year employment growth rate compared to 1.8 percent for the nation.”

“The reports released by the agencies affirm our progress in strengthening Delaware’s economy, while budgeting responsibly,” said Governor Jack Markell. “Combined with job growth that has consistently outpaced the national average and the recognition of Delaware as one of the top two states for the new economy, the triple-A ratings show Delaware is well-positioned for continued success. However, our work is never finished. We must continue efforts to ensure our workers have skills they need to compete for jobs and our entrepreneurs have the support they need to start and expand their companies.”

In its analysis, Standard and Poor’s pointed to Delaware’s “relatively diverse economy,” “strong financial and budget management,” “consistently strong general fund reserves,” “moderate overall debt burden,” and “well-funded pension system.”

Delaware has now earned the top rating from all agencies for the past 14 years, including through the recent economic recession and ongoing recovery.

“Delaware has maintained its triple-A ratings through some challenging economic cycles in large measure due to our disciplined adherence to responsible fiscal practices,” said Secretary of Finance Thomas J. Cook. “Confirmation of our rating translates to the lowest cost of capital, which permits greater investment in the essential infrastructure that is essential to attracting new business and spurring job creation.”

Media Contact:

Josh Berkman

Beckerman

jberkman@beckermanpr.com

201-465-8029

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Governor Jack Markell, Senator Coons and other Public Officials Join Ingerman for Groundbreaking at Newark, Delaware’s Alder Creek

Construction Begins on Delaware’s Newest Affordable Housing Community

Newark, DE. (Oct. 9, 2014) — Delaware Governor Jack Markell, Senator Chris Coons and Newark Mayor Polly Sierer were among the officials who joined representatives from Ingerman today to break ground on Alder Creek, Delaware’s newest affordable housing community. Other attendees included State Representative Paul Baumbach, DSHA Director Anas Ben Addi, HUD Regional Administrator Jane Vincent, Newark Housing Authority Executive Director Marene Jordan, Ingerman Development Principal David Holden and Capital One Vice President Thomas Houlihan.

Once built, Alder Creek will include 56 one- to four-bedroom apartment homes in 13 two-story buildings. Each residence will have a private entrance, front porch, rear balcony or patio, and ample parking. The buildings will be situated so as to create a large community green that will allow for active and passive recreational opportunities.

“It’s exciting to see the Alder Creek development put spade to soil and begin construction,” said Governor Markell. “This new community will help meet the area’s pressing need for affordable housing and will have a positive impact on residents including families with small children.”

Alder Creek will also feature a community building which will house a meeting room, laundry facilities, a fitness center, maintenance space and an after-school program, supported by full-time, on-site maintenance and management staff. The community building will house the community’s leasing office as well.

Families with children will be able to enjoy a large, state-of-the-art playground and will benefit from a comprehensive services program that will be established — complete with a part-time coordinator — to bring in outside service providers.

“Ingerman prides itself on developing housing communities in regions and neighborhoods where they can make a difference,” said Brad Ingerman, President and CEO of Ingerman. “We’re honored that so many statewide and local leaders joined us to break ground, which is indicative of the widespread support and partnership that have made this project possible.”

Alder Creek is being built on a site that has, for years, been a “brownfield.” Rather than abandoning it, Ingerman, along with the Delaware State Housing Authority, HUD and the Newark Housing Authority decided to put the site to use in a way that could serve the common good. The community is being financed through federal tax credits, a bank loan and funding for environmental cleanup from the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control.

“When government and the private sector work together to meet the interests of our citizens, great things can happen,” said Sen. Coons. “Alder Creek is an example of how vision can become reality if there is a spirit of partnership. In this case, we are realizing the potential of a conveniently located, but neglected, parcel of land to build a community that provides new housing options for families of moderate means.”

Ingerman is currently compiling a contact list of prospective residents for this new development. Individuals interested in joining the list or learning more about the development can call 302-607-7470.

About Ingerman

For more than two decades, Ingerman has been developing, building and managing award-winning multi-family communities throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Founded in 1988, the Company has developed 85 communities consisting of more than 6,700 residential units with total development costs in excess of $1 billion.

The Company’s seasoned team of real estate and construction professionals utilizes state-of-the-art architectural design, cutting-edge, environmentally conscious construction and an array of modern amenities in the development of each community. Through a commitment to responsible development practices, Ingerman works to enhance the sustainability of its communities with several green initiatives.

For more information, please call 856-662-1730, Ext. 100.

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Dover, DE – The Delaware Senate today unanimously confirmed the nomination of James Collins to serve as Chief Information Officer of the Department of Technology and Information (DTI), replacing Jim Sills, who recently assumed the role of president and chief executive officer of Mechanics and Farmers Bank after serving as DTI CIO since 2009. The Governor issued this statement following the confirmation:

“Today’s unanimous vote by the Senate affirms the skills and talents James Collins possesses to lead the Department of Technology and Information as its Chief Information Officer.  He is not only qualified to serve in this position from his years and depth of experience in the fields of IT and data and information systems security, but also because of his commitment to ensure that Delawareans continue to receive the highest standard of service throughout the state.”

Dover, DE – The Delaware Senate today unanimously confirmed the nomination of Judge James T. Vaughn, Jr. to serve as a Justice on the Delaware Supreme Court, replacing Justice Carolyn Berger, who retired on September 1. The Governor issued this statement following the confirmation:

“Justice Vaughn is an accomplished and well-respected jurist whose integrity and commitment to justice are second to none. I believe he will make an outstanding addition to the Supreme Court, and I thank the members of the Senate for their consideration and swift confirmation of his nomination.”

(DOVER, Del.—Oct. 8, 2014)—During the month of November 2014, the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs will be offering 19 special programs at the state of Delaware’s museums. A full schedule of events is included below. All programs listed are free and open to the public. For additional information, call 302-744-5055.

In honor of Election Day, The Old State House, located at 25 The Green in Dover, will present “The People’s House,” guided tours that explore the significance of The Old State House and the many state and county governmental functions that were conducted there between 1791 and 1933. Tours will take place between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, Nov. 4 and 11.

On Saturday, Nov. 15, the John Dickinson Plantation, located at 340 Kitts Hummock Road in Dover, will present two candle-making workshops. In partnership with the St. Jones Reserve, the plantation will present a bayberry-candle workshop from 10 a.m.–noon. Reservations for this workshop are required by calling the St. Jones Reserve at 302-739-3436. Between 1 and 3 p.m., the plantation will present “Light Me Up!,” a workshop on candle dipping and discussion of lighting devices of the 18th century. Reservations for this program are required by calling 302-739-3277 no later than Nov. 14.

Finally, on Saturday, Nov. 15 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the Zwaanendael Museum, located at102 Kings Highway in Lewes, will present Dutch-American Heritage Day, a series of activities exploring the contributions that the Dutch have made to the economic, social, political and cultural life of Delaware and the United States. At 2 p.m., the museum will present a lecture by Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs archaeologist Craig Lukezic exploring Dutch colonial activities in Delaware.

Administered by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, the six museums of the State of Delaware—the New Castle Court House Museum, the John Dickinson Plantation, the First State Heritage Park Welcome Center and Galleries, The Old State House, the Johnson Victrola Museum and the Zwaanendael Museum—tell the story of the First State’s contributions to the history and culture of the United States. Through displays, exhibits and special programs, the museums explore how the state’s distinctive physical environment, in combination with the people who came to live there, gave Delaware an identity that is different from any other place.

Special events, November 2014
Note: Recent program changes are indicated in brown.

Saturday, Nov. 1, 2014
“Man’s Best Friend.” Guided tours explore one of the most celebrated canines in the world—Nipper, the dog who adorns the Victor trademark, “His Masters Voice.” Programs will also include original Victor recordings played on authentic Victor Talking Machines. First Saturday in the First State program. Johnson Victrola Museum, 375 S. New St., Dover. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5055.

Saturday, Nov. 1, 2014
“18th Century Market Fair.” Programs explore an era when The Green served as the focal point of life in Dover as historical interpreters explore the goods, wares and political attitudes of the 1700s. The Old State House will celebrate the fair with special tours and appearances by historical re-enactors. Sponsored by the First State Heritage Park. The Green, Dover. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. 302-739-9194.

Saturday, Nov. 1, 2014, and Tuesdays, Nov. 4 and 11, 2014
“An Illegal Activity.” Utilizing the exhibit “An Illegal Activity: The Underground Railroad in Delaware” as a backdrop, guided tours will explore Delaware’s crucial role in the Underground Railroad and on two Delaware leaders who aided in this “freedom enterprise.” First State Heritage Park Welcome Center and Galleries, Delaware Public Archives building, 121 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Dover. Tours at 10 a.m., Noon and 2 p.m. Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5055.

Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2014
“Swing.” In celebration of Election Day, guests will be treated to the sounds of Swing music as recorded by Victor Records on 78-rpm disks and played on authentic Victor Talking Machines. Johnson Victrola Museum, 375 S. New St., Dover. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5055.

Tuesdays, Nov. 4 and 11, 2014
“The People’s House.” In honor of Election Day, guided tours will explore the significance of The Old State House and the many state and county governmental functions that were conducted there between 1791 and 1933. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5055.

Thursdays, Nov. 6, 13 and 20, 2014
John Dickinson’s Birthday Month. Visitors celebrate the birth of John Dickinson by helping to make a great cake and decorate it using royal icing and shaped marzipan. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Saturday, Nov. 8, 2014
Demonstrations by the Thistledown Fiber Arts Guild. Program explores spinning, weaving, knitting and other fabric arts. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 1–3 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Saturday, Nov. 8, 2014
“Delaware’s Decades—the 1970s: ‘Coastal Zone Act of 1971.’ ” Program description TBA. Lecture by Kevin Coyle, principal planner for the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, on the landmark state-legislation that limited industrial development in Delaware’s coastal areas. Part five of an eight-part series exploring decades in Delaware’s history. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Program at 2 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Free admission but, due to space restrictions, reservations are required by calling 302-645-1148 no later than Nov. 6, 2014. Note additional program info.

Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2014
“The Victors of World War I: The Power of Music.” In celebration of Veterans Day, this lively program will examine music’s influence during World War I when patriotic songs were being composed throughout America. Hear 78-rpm recordings of this inspirational music played on authentic Victor Talking Machines, and explore how the Victor Talking Machine Company’s Camden, N.J. factory led the fight to make the world safe for democracy. Johnson Victrola Museum, 375 S. New St., Dover. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5055.

Saturday, Nov. 15, 2014
Candle-making workshops. Bayberry-candle workshop from 10 a.m.–noon examines bayberries and their use in creating bayberry candles. Presented in partnership with the St. Jones Reserve. Reservations required by calling the St. Jones Reserve at 302-739-3436. “Light Me Up!” workshop on candle dipping and discussion of lighting devices of the 18th century from 1–3 p.m. Reservations required by calling 302-739-3277 no later than Nov. 14. Museum also open for visitation 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover.

Saturday, Nov. 15, 2014
Dutch-American Heritage Day. Learn about the contributions that the Dutch have made to the economic, social, political and cultural life of Delaware and the United States. Program will include a lecture by Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs archaeologist Craig Lukezic. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Lecture at 2 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148.

Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2014
“Two Civil War Soldiers.” Historical play about two Confederate soldiers captured at the battle of Gettysburg and subsequently imprisoned at Fort Delaware. Presented by the New Castle Court House Museum and staged at the Arsenal, 30 Market St., New Castle. 7 p.m. Free admission but reservations required by calling 302-323-4453. Recently added program.

Saturday, Nov. 29, 2014
“Handmade for the Holidays.” Seasonal program in which visitors can learn to create and decorate cards through the art of paper quilling and stenciling, and write a personal note with a quill pen. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 11–2:30 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Sunday, Nov. 30, 2014
“Two Civil War Soldiers.” Historical play about two Confederate soldiers captured at the battle of Gettysburg and subsequently imprisoned at Fort Delaware. Presented by the New Castle Court House Museum and staged at the Arsenal, 30 Market St., New Castle. 2 p.m. Free admission but reservations required by calling 302-323-4453. Recently added program.

Exhibits and displays, November 2014
In addition to special programming, the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is presenting the following exhibits and displays:

Thru Dec. 7, 2014 Ongoing Thru July 31, 2014
“An Illegal Activity: The Underground Railroad in Delaware.” Exhibit explores the First State’s role in the Underground Railroad by showcasing Thomas Garrett and Samuel D. Burris and the actions they took in following their consciences rather than the law. Presented in partnership with the Underground Railroad Coalition of Delaware. First State Heritage Park Welcome Center and Galleries, Delaware Public Archives building, 121 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Dover. Mon.–Fri., 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sat., 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30-4:30 p.m. 302-744-5055. Note changes in closing date.

Ongoing
“Archaeology of the New Castle Court House.” The exhibit highlights the many phases of archaeological investigations at the New Castle Court House including artifacts representing over 300 years of continuous use of the building. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. 302-323-4453. Note: Exhibit closed on Sept. 28, 2014.

Ongoing
“Delaware and the War of 1812.”Exhibit examines the service and sacrifice of Delawareans of 1812 to 1815, and the important role that the state played in a conflict that helped shaped the development of the United States. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. from Nov. 1–March 31. Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. from April 1–Oct. 31. 302-645-1148.

Ongoing
“Emeline Hawkins: Her Journey From Slavery to Freedom on the Underground Railroad.” Exhibit chronicles the compelling story of Emeline Hawkins and her family and their 1845 odyssey on the Underground Railroad from slavery in Maryland, through Delaware to freedom in Pennsylvania. New Castle Court House Museum, 211 Delaware St., New Castle. Mon.–Sat., 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-323-4453.

Ongoing
“A Seaborne Citizenry: The DeBraak and Its Atlantic World.” Exhibit utilizes artifacts recovered from His Majesty’s Sloop of War DeBraak, a British warship that sank off the Delaware coast on May 25, 1798 to tell the story of the vessel, its crew and the historical context within which it operated in the Atlantic World of the late 18th century. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. from Nov. 1–March 31. Tue.–Sat., 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. from April 1–Oct. 31. 302-645-1148.

 Ongoing
“Simple Machines.” Exhibit demonstrating the six “simple machines”—incline ramp, screw, wedge, pulley, lever and wheel—that constitute the elementary building blocks of which many more-complicated machines are composed. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Wed.–Sat., 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Ongoing
“Simple Pleasures: Picnic, Play and Dance.” Display of original Edwardian and roaring 20s fall-fashions and sporting attire that reflect the spirit of the liberated “modern” woman as depicted in the Downton Abbey television series. From the collections of the state of Delaware. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Mon.–Sat., 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Sun., 1:30–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5055.

-End-

Contact:
Jim Yurasek
Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs
Phone: 302-736-7413
E-mail: Jim.Yurasek@delaware.gov
Web: http://history.delaware.gov