(Wilmington, DE) – In his weekly message, Governor Markell highlights education efforts in Delaware focused on ensuring students are motivated to learn by making their studies relevant to their future. “This year our STEM Council is bringing new, hands-on science activities into our middle and high schools, and our students will be exposed to career paths in our fastest-growing industries by working directly with professionals in science, technology, engineering, and math,” said Governor Markell. “By committing to make school relevant and engaging for our students, and asking our students to work hard and push themselves, we’ll have a successful school year and we’ll keep Delaware moving forward.”

Every week, the Governor’s office releases a new Weekly Message in video, audio, and transcript form. The message is available on:

YouTube: http://youtu.be/hdJ_fSa7vdA
Delaware.Gov: http://governor.delaware.gov/podcast_video.shtml
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Transcript of The Governor’s Weekly Message: Motivating Students to Succeed

Change will increase grant funding for statewide outdoor recreation programs

Bellevue State Park – Joined by DNREC Secretary David Small, Lewes Mayor Theodore Becker, and Delaware State Parks Director Ray Bivens, as well as state legislators and members of Delaware State Parks and recreational organizations, Governor Jack Markell signed legislation today that will change the structure and management of the Delaware Land and Water Conservation Trust Fund (DTF) and is expected to generate additional funding for outdoor recreation throughout the state. Senate Bill 75 will allow the management of the DTF as an endowment, producing higher yields from the fund’s investments which will continue to be used to fund grants to improve county and municipal parks, trails, playgrounds and other active recreation facilities, and to purchase additional land for outdoor recreation.

“Just as each of us seeks to maximize our income on investments, this legislation enables the state to do the same,” said Governor Jack Markell. “Changing the investment of the DTF from cash to true endowment management is expected to yield greater returns to fund outdoor recreation projects statewide for generations to come.”

The Cash Management Board and Treasurer’s office will remain the custodians and managers of the Fund. The Board’s expertise will provide valuable oversight and direction to strengthen the management of the investment, resulting in increased recreational opportunities statewide.  Since its inception in 1986, DTF has awarded grants to more than 300 projects such as Soroptomist Park in Seaford, Schutte Park in Dover and the James F. Hall National Recreation Trail in Newark.  Grants to county and municipal governments have leveraged over $64.5 million in local and other investments in outdoor recreation.

The endowment investment income is allocated through a formula that provides two-thirds of available funds to DTF grants, and the final third to stewardship projects for DNREC’s Divisions of Fish and Wildlife and Parks and Recreation, Delaware Department of Agriculture for forestry projects, and the Division of Historic and Cultural Affairs.

“Our municipal, county and state parks, trails, state forests and historical and cultural sites are incredible assets to our citizens and visitors and are an important part of our tourism economy, “ said DNREC Secretary David Small. “We need to assure that we are investing in this infrastructure and this legislation will help provide that funding. We appreciate the support from our Parks’ Friends groups which got behind this bill and does so many valuable services and projects for our Parks and our visitors.”

The legislation will increase the effectiveness of the DTF by enabling the state to lower match requirements for municipal and county projects from 50 percent to 25 percent. The bill also establishes an infrastructure account which will provide $1 million annually for improvements in state parks, and fish and wildlife areas statewide.

“Lewes has been the recipient of several Delaware Land and Water Conservation Trust Fund grants over the past 20 years,” said Lewes Mayor Theodore Becker. “These funds have leveraged local, private and foundation resources enabling Lewes to expand recreational opportunities at Smith Park at Blockhouse Pond, Canalfront Park, and a yet-to-be-built trailhead adjacent to the future library.  Once a forlorn and inactive boatyard, Canalfront Park is now a gathering place and a gem along the Lewes & Rehoboth Canal.  DTF grant awards totaling $1.57 million have improved the quality of life for Lewes residents and created great places for visitors.”

Governor Markell was joined at the bill signing by Sen. David McBride – the legislation’s primary sponsor.

“We’ve worked hard to get this legislation through for some time,” said McBride. “Higher returns on the endowment will generate more funding for outdoor recreation projects throughout the state; projects for which there is great need. I want to thank the legislature and Governor Markell for their support of this legislation – a bill we’ve looked forward to for several years.”

“This bill is a big win for everyone involved – the state, our counties and municipalities, especially smaller towns,” said House sponsor, Rep. Debra Heffernan. “We all know that increasing funding to enable more outdoor recreation projects is good for the health of all Delawareans – especially the health of our children. These projects can also bring tourism dollars and many other benefits to our state, without costing Delaware any additional funds.”

Ray Bivens, Director of DNREC’s Division of Parks and Recreation said, “This bill takes a great program and makes it better by giving it tools to fight inflation and be sustainable for generations to come.”

Photos from the event

-New programs added; changes made to previously announced events-

The Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs will be sponsoring 23 special events during the month of September 2014 at the museums of the state of Delaware. Six of the events—on Sept. 1, 6, 13, 20 and 27—will explore the First State’s rich Native-American heritage including programs on the Lenape and Nanticoke Indian tribes. A schedule of all of the division’s September special programs is listed below. Except for the lecture/tours of His Majesty’s Sloop DeBraak, admission for all programs is free and open to the public. For additional information, call 302-744-5055.

According to Nena Todd, site supervisor for the state’s downtown Dover museums, September is a time for Native-American people to return to their homelands. Traditionally, the coming of cooler weather provided a signal for native peoples to transition from their summer hunting and fishing grounds to more secure winter lodging. This tradition of seasonal travel continues in today’s Native-American communities with September serving as a time when families come together and communities celebrate their heritage. One of Delaware’s most well-known Native-American celebrations is the annual Nanticoke Indian Pow-Wow that will take place this year on Sept. 6 and 7.

Administered by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, the six museums of the state of Delaware—New Castle Court House Museum, John Dickinson Plantation, First State Heritage Park Welcome Center and Galleries, The Old State House, The Johnson Victrola Museum and the Zwaanendael Museum—tell the story of Delaware’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 at the museums of the state of Delaware, September 2014:

Monday, Sept. 1, 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 8 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5055. Note change in museum hours.

Monday, Sept. 1, 2014
“The Star Spangled Banner: Then and Now.” Programs examine the development of America’s national anthem through time with original recordings played on authentic Victor Talking Machines. Johnson Victrola Museum, 375 S. New St., Dover. Programs at 11 a.m. and 2 3 p.m. Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5055. Note time change.

Monday, Sept. 1, 2014
“The Test of Time: The Relationship Between the Lenape Indian Tribe of Delaware and the Swedish Royal Family.” Elected Chief Dennis Coker discusses the rekindling of that relationship after 300 years and the advancements made by both communities. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Program at 1 p.m. Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5055.

Thursdays, Sept. 4, 11, 18 and 25, 2014
“Taper Thursdays.” Learn to make your own candle and help the plantation dip 200 candles that John Dickinson would have required from his tenants are part of their leases. 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, Sept. 6, 2014
“Drums, Drums, Drums.” Guided tours explore Victor Talking Machine Company founder E.R. Johnson’s role in making music a fundamental subject in public education and in helping children to become familiar with the most popular musical instruments. In this program, visitors will learn about the significance of drums as both a means of communication and as entertainment, featuring original 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, Sept. 6, 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 Saturday in the First State program. 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.

Saturday, Sept. 6, 2014
“Delaware’s Native People and Archaeological Study.” Program examines Native-American artifacts from the collections of the state of Delaware and how those artifacts interpret the rich culture of the first residents of the First State. First Saturday in the First State program. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Program at 1 p.m. Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5055.

Mondays, Sept. 8, 15, 22 and 29, 2014
Lecture/tour of His Majesty’s Sloop DeBraak. Explore the history of the DeBraak which was capsized and lost off the Delaware coast on May 25, 1798. Program includes a trip to the hull facility in nearby Cape Henlopen State Park for a tour of the surviving section of the ship’s hull. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Programs at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Limited seating. Admission $10 in advance by reservation through the Shop Delaware website. For additional information, call 302-645-1148.

 Saturday, Sept. 13, 2014
“The First People of the First State: A Lenape Celebration of Heritage.” Third annual celebration featuring the Lenape Indian Tribe of Delaware as they honor mother earth and Native-American culture with dancing and demonstrations. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Celebration Noon 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5055. Note time change.

Saturday, Sept. 13, 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, Sept. 13, 2014
“The Star Spangled Banner: Then and Now.” Program examines the development of America’s national anthem through time with original recordings played on authentic Victor Talking Machines. Johnson Victrola Museum, 375 S. New St., Dover. Program 2 p.m. Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5055. Recently added program.

Saturday, Sept. 20, 2014
“Hearth Cooking Basics.” Hands-on workshop. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. Program 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. 302-739-3277.

Saturdays, Sept. 20 and 27, 2014
“First People of the First State.” Two-part lecture, based on the research of Delaware archaeologist Cara Blume, explores Delaware’s Native-American communities of the past and present. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Program at 1 p.m. on both days. Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5055. Programs cancelled.

Saturday Sept. 20, 2014
“Lost and Found: Native American Identity in Delaware’s Public Schools.” Panel discussion examines the challenges that Delaware’s Native-American students faced during segregation and the subsequent integration of the public schools. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Program at 1 p.m. Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5055. Recently added program.

Saturday, Sept. 27, 2014
“Arts in the Estuary.”Celebrate National Estuaries Day from the artistic viewpoint including the work of artisans, performers and authors. Partnership with the St. Jones Reserve. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. John Dickinson Plantation, 340 Kitts Hummock Road and St. Jones Reserve, 818 Kitts Hummock Road, Dover. 302-739-3277.

Saturday Sept. 27, 2014
“Smoked, Pickled and Salted for Survival.” Learn how smoked, pickled and salted meats helped stretch food reserves in the winter, and participate in pickling meats with brine and smoking meats in the plantation’s smokehouse. 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 Sept. 27, 2014
“Surviving Invasion: Learning About the First Peoples of the First State.” Based on the research of Dr. Cara Blume, this lecture will explore Delaware’s Native-American communities of the past and present. The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover. Program at 1 p.m. Museum open 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-744-5055. Recently added program.

Saturday, Sept. 27, 2014
Native-American-themed program. Speaker TBD. “Capt. John Smith and his Encounter with the Nanticoke Indians.” Lecture by archaeologist Dan Griffith explores the natural environment of the Nanticoke River watershed in the early 17th century with a focus on the indigenous Nanticoke Indians and their encounter with Capt. John Smith. Zwaanendael Museum, 102 Kings Highway, Lewes. Program at 2 p.m. Museum open 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. 302-645-1148. Note additional program description.

-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

As a guest host for the Governor’s weekly message, filmed at Children & Families First, Division of Public HealthDirector Dr. Karyl Rattay discusses expansion of the Nurse-Family Partnership in Delaware and its positive impact on the children and families who participate in the program.

“The initiative is based on over 37 years of research that has found amazing results: a decrease in pre-term deliveries for women who smoke and nearly a 50% reduction in child abuse and neglect cases,” said Dr. Rattay. “The women are more likely to eat healthy, stop smoking, enroll in school, find work, and achieve better health outcomes for their children.

Every week, the Governor’s office releases a new Weekly Message in video, audio, and transcript form. The message is available on:

YouTube:http://youtu.be/jN8E1lRHHE4

Delaware.Gov: http://governor.delaware.gov/podcast_video.shtml

By email: Please contact our press team to subscribe to our press list

Facebook: www.facebook.com/governormarkell

Twitter:  www.twitter.com/governormarkell

Transcript of The Governor’s Weekly Message:Creating Healthier Communities Through Nurse-Family Partnership

Wilmington, DE –GovernorMarkell extended his deepest sympathies to the family of Matt Haley and issued this statement:

“Carla and I are devastated by the loss of our friend, Matt Haley. We joined Matt just last month at two of his restaurants and were inspired by his plans to bring his message of making the most of second chances and the importance of a healthy recovery to people across Delaware and the country. He was a world class humanitarian and we will miss him greatly. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”