Governor Jack Markell announced today that Friday, December 26, 2014, will be an additional holiday for state government.

“I know how challenging it has been to meet the increased demands placed on our government in the last several years, and to do so in many cases with fewer resources. State employees have continued to provide excellent service in spite of these challenges and deliver every day for the citizens of Delaware,” said Governor Markell. “I want to recognize them for their commitment by allowing them to spend an extra day with their families this holiday season.”

Employees at 24-hour facilities, such as state hospitals and correctional centers, will report to work. State offices will re-open on Monday, December 29, 2014, with normal business hours.

(Lewes, DE) – In his weekly message, filmed at the Lewes Public Library, Governor Markell discusses the importance of continued investments in Delaware’s libraries.
“This past week, we celebrated the groundbreaking for what will be the state’s 14th library opening or expansion since 2009, bringing our state’s investment in library construction to nearly thirty million dollars over the past seven years,” said Governor Markell. “By supporting public libraries, we can help give everyone the resources and information they need to increase their knowledge, find new economic opportunities, and build stronger bonds within their communities.”

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/wUU31d6RhQg
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

You may view the Governor’s Weekly Message Transcript: Supporting Public Libraries, Building Stronger Communities

No matter how much technology changes the way get information, we will always rely on the value of public libraries in our state. They bridge the digital divide, bringing computers, the internet, and other technology to people who otherwise may not have access. Children gain opportunities to develop a life-long love of literacy and learning, while people of all ages can find accessible spaces to come together. And library resources help unemployed and underemployed workers find and apply for jobs. This past week, we celebrated the groundbreaking for what will be the state’s 14th library opening or expansion since 2009, bringing our state’s investment in library construction to nearly thirty million dollars over the past seven years. The new Lewes Public Library will exemplify the growing importance of libraries to our communities. With support from the city and state, as well as local organizations and individuals, the facility will be filled with state-of-the-art meeting rooms; dozens of computer stations; and a special section designed to meet the electronic needs of young people. And library initiatives will be integrated with the surrounding area. Bicyclists and hikers will have the opportunity to pick up music or an audio book for a ride to Rehoboth Beach and back via our state’s growing network of trails, which are attracting new residents and visitors to Sussex County. By supporting public libraries, we can help give everyone the resources and information they need to increase their knowledge, find new economic opportunities, and build stronger bonds within their communities. And that will keep Delaware moving forward.

On Tuesday, December 2, Governor Markell ordered the American and Delaware flags at state buildings and facilities be flown at half-staff to mark the passing of former State Representative Clifford G. “Biff” Lee.

Services for Representative Lee are scheduled for Saturday, December 6, and Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day will be observed on Sunday, December 7. Flags should remain lowered through the weekend, and all flags should be returned to the full staff position on Monday, December 8.

With the passing of former State Representative Clifford G. “Biff” Lee on Tuesday, December 2, Governor Markell has ordered the American and Delaware flags at state buildings and facilities be flown at half-staff beginning immediately as a mark of respect for Representative Lee and his service to Delaware.

Representative Lee served in the Delaware House from 1990-2012, representing the 40th district in Laurel. He served on numerous committees, including Public Safety and Homeland Security, Judiciary, Veterans Affairs and the Joint Committee on Capital Improvement. Representative Lee was a retired Delaware State Police trooper and a U.S. Air Force veteran who also served his community as a volunteer at the Laurel Fire Department for more than 40 years.

Flags are to remain at half-staff until the date of interment. Funeral services for Representative Lee have not yet been announced.