Wilmington, DE – The Governor today extended his condolences to the family of former state Supreme Court Justice Henry Ridgely Horsey, who passed away yesterday at the age of 91. Judge Horsey served on the Delaware Supreme Court from 1978 until 1994:

“Justice Horsey left a successful career in private legal practice to pursue the higher calling of public service, continuing the commitment made by generations of Delaware’s Ridgely family since before the Revolutionary War. His intellect and wisdom on the bench strengthened Delaware’s Judiciary and contributed to our reputation for the finest state courts in the country, and his support of education, the environment and other causes will leave a lasting and positive impact on our state. I am saddened to learn of his passing and extend my condolences to his loving family.”

(DOVER, Del.—Feb. 24, 2016)—On Feb. 23, 2016, Woodburn, the governor’s official residence in Dover, Del. was lit up in blue and green in honor of National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, an annual campaign sponsored by the National Eating Disorders Association to bring public attention to the critical needs of people with eating disorders and their families.

The theme of the association’s 2016 campaign is “3 Minutes Can Save a Life: Get Screened. Get Help. Get Healthy” which focuses on early detection and intervention. As part of the campaign, the association has partnered with Screening for Mental Health, Inc. to develop a confidential online eating disorders screening which takes as little as three minutes to complete, and from which participants can learn if it’s time to seek professional help.

Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any mental disorder and 30 million Americans will suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their lives. According to Claire Mysko, the association’s interim chief executive officer, “eating disorders can hide in plain sight and frequently go undiagnosed until someone’s health is at significant risk. These are life-threatening bio-psycho-social illnesses, not a ‘lifestyle choice.’ It’s time to get beyond the stigma and stereotypes and recognize the diverse experiences of people affected by disordered eating. Early intervention is a critical first step toward ending this epidemic, and everyone who is struggling deserves to be able to access help without delay to provide them the best chance possible of full recovery.”

In support of the campaign, Gov. Jack Markell noted, “”Too many people suffering from these disorders, suffer in silence. Bringing awareness to disordered eating is vital to support these individuals and their families to overcome their challenges and thrive.”

Located at 151 Kings Highway in Dover, Del., Woodburn is one of Delaware’s most historic homes and an outstanding example of late-18th-century Georgian architecture. The house was built in 1798 by Charles Hillyard, III (1759–1814), a fourth-generation Delawarean from a family of affluent landowners who were frequently active in the governmental, social and economic life of Kent County. Woodburn has served as the home of Delaware’s governor since it was purchased by the state in 1965. It was listed individually in the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. The Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs has been responsible for the care and conservation of Woodburn since August 2009. The division’s charge includes repair and maintenance of the building; design and upkeep of the property’s garden and horticultural displays; and furnishing of the home.

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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

DOVER – With the passing of former State Representative Benjamin Ewing on January 26, Governor Markell has ordered the American and Delaware flags at state buildings and facilities be flown at half-staff beginning Thursday, January 28, as a mark of respect for Representative Ewing and his service to Delaware. Representative Ewing served in the Delaware House for more than 21 years, from 1987-2008, representing the Bridgeville area. During his time in the legislature, Representative Ewing served as chairman of the Public Safety Committee and was a member of the Homeland Security Committee. Prior to his election as state representative, Representative Ewing served as a Delaware State Police Trooper from 1958 to 1978, rising to the rank of Deputy Superintendent and also serving as an instructor at the Delaware State Police Academy for 13 years.
 
Flags are to be returned to full-staff on Monday, February 1.

DOVER – State of Delaware offices in all three counties will open at 10 a.m. on Monday, January 25, 2016. Non-essential employees do not report until 10 a.m. Essential employees are to report as scheduled.

DOVER – Governor Jack Markell announced today that Thursday, December 24, 2015, will be an additional holiday for state government.

“Our state employees have an unwavering dedication to serving our friends and neighbors. In spite of increased demands and fewer resources, they continue to provide excellent service and support, delivering every day for the citizens of Delaware,” said Governor Markell. “In appreciation of all of their hard work and their commitment to Delaware, I am 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 28, 2015, with normal business hours.