2010 DSCC Annual Report

s p r ec e ia p o l r a t n is nu s u al e

bringing jobs to THREE D OLLARS

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delaware J a n u ar y / F e b r u ar y 2 0 1 0

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NCI Chamber Ad

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In This Issue features

37

Government Affairs

14

41

Economic Development

Governor Jack Markell and DEDO Director Alan Levin share their ideas for the state’s economic future.

The Partnership, Inc.

49

Delaware Retail Council

16

Race to the Top

Transforming Delaware’s education system.

53

Small Business Alliance

57

Delaware Manufacturing Association

annual report

61

2

Public Policy

3

Membership

Chamber Staff

State Chamber Board of Directors

5

64

departments

2010 Editorial Calendar

7

Message from the Chairman and President

8 Meet the New Chairman

10

Legislative Priority

bringing jobs

67

Newsmakers

State Chamber members share their news and successes.

71

Welcome New Members

73

State Chamber News

The State Chamber presents its 2010 Legislative Agenda.

Calendar of Events

19

Benefits of Membership

21

Committees

The year in photos.

For Assistance, Call the Chamber

Advocates of Hope

S P R EC E IA P O L R A T N IS NU S U AL E

76 78 79

2009: A Year in the Life of the Chamber

80

to

delaware

On The Cover Bringing jobs to Delaware will help the state recover. from the top: Barclaycard US brought hundreds of jobs to the state this year, a wind turbine signifies Delaware’s future in green energy, Gov. Jack Markell and Delaware Economic Development Office Director Alan Levin work to bring jobs to the state, and Fisker Automotive’s “Karma” hybrid. The company purchased General Motor’s shuttered Wilmington plant.

Photos courtesy of the Delaware Economic Development Office and file photos.

Volume 16, Number 1 / Delaware Business (USPS 012098) (ISSN 153253542) is published bi-monthly by the DSCC Center for Business Management. Subscription price is $18 a year (included in membership dues). Known office of publication is 1201 N. Orange St., Suite 200, Wilmington, DE 19801. Periodicals postage paid Wilmington, DE 19850. Postmaster: Send address changes to Delaware Business, c/o DSCC Center for Business Management, P.O. Box 671, Wilmington, DE 19899-0671. Telephone (302) 655-7221.

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2009 Delaware State Chamber Staff Editorial Staff Richard K. Struthers Chairman James A.Wolfe President/CEO

Katie Grasso Managing Editor Sharon R. Reardon Editor

Kelly Cofrancisco Editor

Executive Committee

James A. Wolfe President and CEO

Marianne K. Antonini Senior Vice President, Finance & CFO

A. Richard Heffron Senior Vice President, Government Affairs

CHAIRMAN Richard K. Struthers Bank of America IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRMAN Alan B. Levin Delaware Economic Development Office

Katie Grasso Communications Manager

Greg Gross Director of Government Relations

Chuck James Account Executive

William E. Manning Saul Ewing, LLP

Richelle Vible Catholic Charities, Inc.

Linda Ammons Widener University School of Law

Dr. Orlando J. George, Jr. Delaware Technical & Community College

Paul H. Mylander The Bank of Delmarva Michael N. Ratchford W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.

Martha S. Gilman Gilman Development Company

John S. Riley Hercules, Inc.

John E. Healy III Healy, Long & Jevin, Inc.

W. Laird Stabler III, Esq. Laird Stabler & Associates

Timothy J. Constantine Blue Cross Blue Shield of Delaware

Michael Houghton Morris, Nichols, Arsht & Tunnell, LLP

Charlie Copeland Associates Graphic Services

Tyrone Jones AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP

Chip Davis AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP

Richard H. LaPenta Insurance & Financial Serv., Ltd.

Allen J. DeWalle AAA Mid-Atlantic

Robert J. Laskowski, MD Christiana Care Health Systems

E. Andrew DiSabatino EDiS Company

Cathy MacFarlane ING DIRECT

Robert F. Dolan General Motors

Michael McMullen Agilent Technologies

Katie Wilkinson Wilmington Trust Company

Linda C. Drake TCIM Services, Inc.

Chad Moore The Bellmoor

Lloyd Wirshba Barclays

Gary R. Stockbridge Delmarva Power Ed Sutor Dover Downs Hotel & Casino William Wallace JPMorgan Chase Robert W. Whetzel Richards, Layton & Finger

staff James A.Wolfe President/CEO

Sharon R. Reardon Senior Vice President & Executive Director, Small Business Alliance Bill Stephano Director of Sales

Michael S. Uffner AutoTeam Delaware

Bret Morris A. R. Morris Jewelers

A. Richard Heffron Senior Vice President

Arlene M. Simon Account Executive

Hinton Lucas DuPont

Christina Favilla Discover Bank

Marianne K. Antonini Senior Vice President

Liz Pretz Events manager

Mark Turner WSFS Bank

Board of directors

Robert L. Byrd Wolf Block Public Strategies Delaware Linda D. Eriksen Accounting Associate

Mark S. Stellini Virtual Resources, LLC

William R. Allan Verizon Delaware

David B. Brown, Esq. Potter, Anderson & Corroon LLP

Cheryl Corn Executive Assistant to the President

Fred C. Sears II Delaware Community Foundation

Richard Kenny Delaware Supermarkets, Inc.

Murray Berstein Nixon Uniform Service

Kelly Cofrancisco Program & Communications Specialist

Marvin N. Schoenhals WSFS Bank

Pierre du Pont Hayward University of Delaware

TREASURER Richard D. Rowland Rowland, Johnson & Co., PA John H. Taylor, Jr. Senior Vice President & Executive Director, DPPI

Sylvia S. Banks DuPont

Donald T. Fulton George J.Weiner Associates

VICE CHAIRMAN Connie Bond Stuart PNC Bank

Janine G. Sorbello Senior Vice President, Education & Executive Director, The Partnership, Inc.

Dennis M. Salter Summit Realty Advisors, LLC

Ernest J. Dianastasis CAI

CHAIRMAN ELECT Thomas J. Cooper Cooper Realty Associates

Sharon Reardon Senior Vice President, Marketing & Executive Director, Small Business Alliance

Tony Allen, PhD Bank of America

Janine G. Sorbello Senior Vice President & Executive Director, The Partnership

John H. Taylor, Jr. Senior Vice President & Executive Director, DPPI

Greg Gross Director of Government Relations Chuck James Account Executive

Kelly Cofrancisco Program & Communications Specialist

Liz Pretz Events Manager

Cheryl Corn Executive Assistant to the President

Arlene Simon Account Executive

Linda D. Eriksen Accounting Associate

Bill Stephano Director of Sales

Katie Grasso Communications Manager

Angie M. Turochy Information Secretary

ADVERTISING SALES / Miller Publishing, Inc.

Fred Miller President

Al Tigani, Sr. Advertising Executive

Delaware State Chamber of Commerce 1201 North Orange Street, P.O. Box 671 • Wilmington, DE 19899-0671 (302) 655-7221 • (800) 292-9507 • www.dscc.com

Angie M. Turochy Information Secretary

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The mission of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce is to promote an economic climate that strengthens the competitiveness of Delaware businesses and benefits citizens of the state. The Chamber will provide services members want; it will serve and be recognized as the primary resource on matters affecting companies of all sizes; and it will be the leading advocate for business with government in Delaware.

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s, LLC

hals

2009 Delaware State Chamber Board of Directors executive committee

CHAIRMAN Richard K. Struthers Bank of America

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRMAN Alan Levin Delaware Economic Development Office

CHAIRMAN ELECT Thomas J. Cooper Cooper Realty Associates

VICE CHAIRMAN Connie Bond Stuart PNC Bank

TREASURER Richard D. Rowland Rowland, Johnson & Co., PA

Tony Allen Ph.D Bank of America

Sylvia Banks DuPont

Ernie Dianastasis CAI

Donald T. Fulton George J. Weiner Associates

Pierre du Pont Hayward University of Delaware

Richard Kenny Delaware Supermarkets Inc.

Hinton Lucas DuPont

William E. Manning saul ewing, LLP

Dennis M. Salter Summit Realty Advisors, Inc.

Marvin N. Schoenhals WSFS Bank

Fred C. Sears, II Delaware Community Foundation

Mark S. Stellini virtual resources, LLC

Mark Turner WSFS Bank

Michael S. Uffner AutoTeam Delaware

Richelle Vible Catholic Charities of Delaware

William R. Allan Verizon Delaware

Linda Ammons Widener University School of Law

Murray Berstein Nixon Uniform Service

David B. Brown Potter Anderson & Corroon, LLP

Robert L. Byrd Wolf Block Public Strategies Delaware

Timothy J. Constantine Blue Cross Blue Shield of Delaware

Charlie Copeland Associates Graphic Services

Chip Davis AstraZeneca

Allen J. DeWalle AAA Mid-Atlantic

E. Andrew DiSabatino EDiS Company

Robert F. Dolan General Motors

Linda C. Drake TCIM Services, Inc.

Christina Favilla Discover Bank

Orlando J. George, Jr. Delaware Technical & Community College

Martha S. Gilman Gilman Development Company

John E. Healy III Healy Long & Jevin, Inc.

Michael Houghton Morris, Nichols, Arsht & Tunnell, LLP

Tyrone Jones AstraZeneca

Richard H. LaPenta Insurance & Financial Services, Ltd.

Robert J. Laskowski Christiana Care Health Systems

Cathy MacFarlane ING DIRECT

Michael McMullen Agilent Technologies

Chad Moore The Bellmoor

Bret Morris A.R. Morris Jewelers

Paul H. Mylander The Bank of Delmarva

Michael Ratchford W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc.

John S. Riley Ashland, Inc.

W. Laird Stabler, III Laird Stabler & Associates

Gary R. Stockbridge Delmarva Power

Ed Sutor Dover Downs Hotel & Conference

William S. Wallace JPMorgan Chase

Robert W. Whetzel Richards, Layton & Finger

Katie Wilkinson Wilmington Trust Company

Lloyd Wirshba Barclays

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editorial

L A U N E N U A ISS L IA T C OR E P P S RE

Delaware Business 2010 Editorial/Ad Calendar*

calendar

jack markell’s B

The Delaware State Chamber of Commerce’s Delaware Business is published six times a year, featuring a wide range of editorial content of interest to the business community. Below is the 2010 editorial calendar, including special advertising sections and advertising space reservation deadlines:

lueprint for Delaware

r g c ea ui o l d n e s es t tr t o u at c e ti & o n

January/February

State Chamber Annual Report The State Chamber’s Year in Review, and a look at Delaware’s economic development.

LE

March/April

Guide to Real Estate & Construction Guide to Health Care & Insurance Guide to Taxes Space reservation: January 19, 2010

G GA UID L E SE TO RV IC

ES

Leading the Nation:

lth Network Delaware’s Electronic Hea

May/June

Superstars in Education Guide to Education Guide to Legal Services Guide to Wellness Space reservation: March 12, 2010

stars

r 2009inSudpuecation

E

July/August

Meeting & Banquet Guide Back-to-School Guide Insurance & Financial Services Space reservation: May 14, 2010 September/October

REDUCEEEN EL

VANPOOL

REGRADABLE GBIOD

FU ALTERNATIVE

LEAN

STR

LEED

EFFICIENT

SSUE

THE GREEEN I RECDYENCERLGY WIN

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INT

PR CARBON FOOT

* This calendar lists cover story topics and special advertising segments.

Editorial topics are subject to change. Advertisers will be notified of any significant changes to content. All ads are due one week after space reservation deadline.

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TY

SUSTAINABILI

REUSE

Superstars in Business Guide to Small Business Guide to Construction & Real Estate Guide to Technology Guide to Banking Space reservation: September 15, 2010

T ENVIROENAMMELN INE

November/December

TY

PRODUCTIVI

SOLAR

Guide to Health Care Guide to Education Green Guide Space reservation: July 14, 2010

Delaware Business magazine covered a variety of topics – from the construction industry to education. above, the covers of the 2009 issues.

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They’re just your typical

wide-eyed idealists

who think they can change the world.

Only they’re actually doing it.

2009 Bank of America Student Leaders: Shanice Sandiford, Monica Wilson, Anthony Williams, Ashley McNeill, and Julie Hall

Community leaders deserve more than just handshakes and homemade cookies for their tireless contributions. That’s why Bank of America created the Neighborhood Excellence Initiative®: to recognize and reward deserving leaders from local high schools, nonprofits and neighborhoods alike who’ve transformed their personal desire to improve lives into a viable ability to do so.

Congratulations to this year’s award winners.

Neighborhood Builders®

Student Leaders®

Local Heroes

Food Bank of Delaware

Julie Hall

Sister Ascension Banegas

Ashley McNeill

Renee Palmore Beaman, R.N.

La Esperanza

Cab Calloway School of the Arts

Donated funds to La Esperanza Donated funds to Beautiful Gate Outreach Center

Cab Calloway School of the Arts

Shanice Sandiford

Diane Carroll

Mount Pleasant High School

Donated funds to Delaware Association for Children of Alcoholics

Anthony Williams

St. Elizabeth’s High School

Joseph McCaffrey

Monica Wilson

Donated funds to Alzheimer’s Association

Tower Hill School

Allen “Duffy” Samuels

Donated funds to Duffy’s Hope

To learn more or apply, visit bankofamerica.com/neighborhoodexcellence © 2009 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. | AR 94703

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message from the abc fg Ch ad i rem an & the President

Making Progress by Working Together Richard K. Struthers Chairman

O

ne positive aspect of the economic challenges of this year is their unifying force. Challenging as our national and state economies are, they’ve brought power to the table together.

Governor Jack Markell started his first year in office with an address to business leaders in the State Chamber Board Room.

He began by saying he had a budget that was made for everyone – in other words, everyone would share the pain that would be necessary to resolve a historic budget crisis. He carried his message to Legislative Hall and demonstrated a willingness to cooperate and negotiate to address the state’s economic woes.

We see progress being made and we are as steadfast as we are optimistic

James A. Wolfe President & CEO

connections with educators and business leaders through our Principal for a Day and Superstars in Education programs, we invest our support and leadership toward the ambitious and aggressive goals of Vision 2015.

Another key issue for Delaware is the management of energy.

We need a stable supply and a reasonable cost structure in order to assure the reliable growth of our state’s economy. Addressing this wisely will yield the combined benefits of renewable energy, regional cooperation and local economic development.

The State Chamber embraces a climate of working together on behalf of our members and all the citizens of Delaware. We are pleased that our state’s leadership has shown it can quickly respond, innovate and cooperate. We’re in solid support of such teamwork. n

for Delaware’s future.

That model of cooperation set the table for progress on all fronts.

The State Chamber plays an important role as the voice of business as steps are taken toward a healthy recovery. From keeping Chamber members informed on current and relevant business issues, to providing frequent forums for legislators and business leaders to connect with shared ideas and experiences, to the finer details of recruiting key new businesses to Delaware, the State Chamber always has a seat at the table of decision-making.

Our message is consistent. We must protect and optimize Delaware’s business-friendly strengths with responsible legislation and we need to find and nurture businesses that will stabilize our community by providing jobs. To that end, we facilitate partnerships with our institutions of higher education and help remove obstacles to business growth by assisting efforts to streamline government permitting and regulatory processes.

We see progress being made and we are as steadfast as we are optimistic for Delaware’s future.

Other issues, equally important as fiscal responsibility and job creation, are health care and education. While we launched a new, exclusive health care coverage plan for Chamber members this year, we also remain focused on the broad topics of reform and the aggregate cost consequences of the uninsured and underinsured. In the same manner, as we make individual local

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l e a d e r s hh i p dscc

New Leader for Chamber Board

By Katie Grasso

T

ommy Cooper has always had a commitment to Delaware. Even when his company moved him out of state, he “couldn’t get back to Delaware quick enough,” he explains. Now, Cooper will take on a new role – one that is committed to bolstering business in the state. In 2010, Cooper will take over as Chairman of the State Chamber Board of Directors from Ric Struthers of Bank of America.

Cooper is the president of Cooper Realty Associates, a fullservice residential, commercial development company with offices in Seaford, Georgetown and Lewes. He began the company in 1984, after working as COO for one of the largest public real estate companies on the East Coast. “[Starting the company] was a lot of fun,” Cooper recalls.

“It was creative, scary at times, but rewarding. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to survive four recessions, which probably gave me my philosophies about business today.”

Staying innovative and maintaining professional relationships are what Cooper believes got his company through the hard times. “The real estate business today is not remotely what it was in 1984 when I started with the company,” he says.

“I think relationships, friendships and continuity are very important to success.”

Over the years, Cooper says those invaluable relationships were developed through his State Chamber membership.

“The networking and cutting-edge programs offered by the Chamber over the years have been very helpful to me and my company.” Cooper became interested in the State Chamber in the 1980s when he realized a Chamber insurance program could save him $3,500. “That’s when I saw the advantage of being a part of a larger effort,” Cooper says.

As Chairman, Cooper wants to lead the Board in an effort to create new job opportunities and increase state revenues.

“In a respectful way, we need to be a little less politically correct and a little more proactive in promoting commerce and protecting Delaware business’s interest.”

Cutting expenses and raising taxes and fees to address Delaware’s budget shortfalls alone will not work, Cooper noted. He believes the long-term fix is creating manufacturing and tech jobs in unison with permanent operating cuts.

“We have to grow our way out of this,” he says. Cooper also supports the Chamber’s education initiatives, and believes a

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Incoming DSCC Board Chairman Tommy Cooper supports the Chamber’s PAC each year at the Chamber Chase Golf Tournament in Rehoboth Beach.

From left: State Rep. Quinton S. Johnson, IV, Cooper, DSCC President and CEO Jim Wolfe, and Clinton Bunting.

Photo by Kelly Cofrancisco

great challenge will be to examine public education.

Perhaps one of the biggest challenges will be to make Delaware a place where students can stay upon graduation. “We raise and educate our home-grown Delaware kids only to lose them after college because there are very few career jobs available for them here,” he said. “For me that’s very sad and self-defeating. We need to create technical and manufacturing jobs.”

Cooper will officially take over as Board of Director’s Chair from Ric Struthers with the passing of the giant aspirin at the State Chamber’s Annual Dinner on January 11, 2010.

“I’m very proud and humbled to take over the reigns as Chairman of the State Chamber,” Cooper says. “Their wonderful tradition of accomplishment and support of the Delaware business community is truly exemplary. I admire and appreciate the very talented and dedicated staff and it is my goal to try to catalyze them to even higher accomplishments and see that everyone has fun doing it.” n Facts about the New Chair • Cooper’s family moved from Baltimore, Md. when his father became Chief of Surgery at Nanticoke Hospital.

• Graduated from East Tennessee State University and decided to attend there because it was a premier golfing school and many students from the Eastern Shore attended the university at the time.

• Cooper’s first job was with American Hospital Supply Corporation.

• Cooper’s company, Cooper Realty Associates, employs 19 people.

• Other board positions include: former Delaware River and Bay Authority commissioner, member of the riverfront development corporation board of directors, commissioner of the magistrate screening commission, and trustee of the Beebe Hospital Foundation.

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You make smart choices for your health.

And you want to do the same for your health coverage.

Do you have a plan?

Yes, you do.

More people choose Blue Cross Blue Shield of Delaware than any other health plan in the state — with good reason.

We have an extensive provider network, a wide variety of options for individuals, families and employers, and a name Delaware has trusted for nearly 75 years. Our website helps you make the most of your health care, with provider search tools, wellness information, claims status reports and more. And as Delaware’s leading health insurer, we keep affordability and high-quality service as top priorities. Learn more about Blue Cross Blue Shield of Delaware at bcbsde.com.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Delaware is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ©2009 Blue Cross Blue Shield of Delaware

BCBSDE-21354 BrandAd_DSCC.indd 1

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delaware state chamber of commerce

2010 Legislative Agenda

W

hen determining what should be included in the 2010 Delaware State Chamber of Commerce’s legislative agenda for the second session of the 145th General Assembly, it is apparent that the citizens of Delaware will be facing another year with serious economic challenges.

The primary question is what changes will be made during this coming session to address the fiscal challenges the state faces and encourage economic development? With this in mind, the State Chamber’s legislative agenda for 2010 will focus on:

State Fiscal Policy

Since the fall of 2008, the state’s revenue projections have decreased with each subsequent DEFAC meeting, until this past September when revenue projections increased based upon approval of fee and tax increases last June. Yet the September DEFAC revenue projections are approximately $300 million lower than budget requirements. The administration and the General Assembly will need to continue to: • Study how state government functions; • Take an even closer look at where taxpayers’ money is spent; • Continue implementing restraints on state spending; • Develop new revenue sources, without additional fee and tax increases; • Reduce the unsustainable size of government in the state.

All of these efforts are a continuation of the difficult decisions that started last year, and these decisions will not be any easier going forward. It appears the recession is over, with economists predicting a long, slow growth pattern for the economy.

Businesses, along with many of our state’s citizens, are still dealing with the financial squeeze; it’s not the time for government to take additional money out of their pockets. For the economy’s recovery to quicken, businesses and consumers must increase both investment and spending.

Call to Action: All state and local governments need to continue looking at cutting expenses and finding inefficiencies to balance their budgets. Tax and fee increases are not viable options while businesses are still attempting to climb out of a recession.

Public Education

Even though Delaware’s public schools have improved since 1995, they still fall short when it comes to dropout rates, test scores, and preparation for higher education and the job market. President Obama’s aggressive educational improve-

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ment plan, “Race to the Top,” headed by his innovative Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, will provide a new opportunity to further improve the state’s public school system. Required changes will include flexible decision making within each school, measuring student achievement on an ongoing basis, state responsibility for addressing failing schools and including student achievement as part of teacher accountability standards (To read more about Race to the Top, turn to page 16). Delaware’s businesses, along with community, education and government leaders, must continue cooperative efforts to develop a road map for helping Delaware’s public schools achieve world-class status.

To meet these goals, it is imperative that implementation of the Vision 2015 plan be accelerated.

Call to Action: The state government, education community and citizens of Delaware must continue implementing the aggressive education reform agenda outlined in Vision 2015 and align with President Obama’s “Race to the Top” education improvement program. This cooperative agenda will provide our public school systems with the ability to achieve world class status.

Health Insurance

Health insurance costs paid by the state’s small businesses continue to climb. The constantly rising health insurance rates have forced small business owners to make difficult decisions about the level of health care coverage they can provide, and in an ever-growing number of cases, the unfortunate decision has been to discontinue coverage. Efforts in recent years to pass legislation with the intent of offering more affordable rates has been stymied by the state’s difficult fiscal situation.

Governor Jack Markell correctly decided to wait for Congress and the president to enact federal health care reform legislation before proposing changes to the current state law. If the existing congressional effort to pass health care reform legislation is not successful, then Gov. Markell and the General Assembly will need to look seriously at proposals such as a small business purchasing pool and the formation of a catastrophic fund to help lower costs for small business. Two goals that must be the objective of any reform effort at the state or federal level are lowering health care costs and expanding coverage. To do this we need to address the most fundamental issue: how to finance these proposals. The State Chamber understands the enormity of finding a better means of supplying affordable health care to our members and their employees. We also understand the burden

Januar Januaryy // Febr Februar uaryy 2010 D e l a w a r e B u s i n e s s

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ab o uc r dvei fg ew

the current situation places upon Delaware’s small business owners and their employees. With this in mind, the State Chamber is committed to working with our national and state leaders and the health care stakeholders to develop a plan that can lower the cost of health insurance.

Call to Action: Whether at the state or federal level, business needs a health care insurance system that controls costs and provides the ability for everyone to obtain coverage.

COME SEE OUR NEW WELLNESS & RECREATION CENTER! Now offering community memberships.

Energy

Energy independence, coupled with stable supply and a reasonable cost structure, is critical to the continued growth of our state’s economy. The purchase of Bluewater Wind by NRG will provide the investment necessary to move ahead with the construction of an offshore wind farm. Ongoing discussions with our neighboring states regarding a regional approach to providing wind power presents another path for successfully moving ahead with this project. This is not the only opportunity for our state.

Delmarva Power, along with other energy providers, are working hard at finding alternative sources of renewable energy that can not only meet Delaware’s demand, but also offer opportunities for economic development.

Call to Action: Delaware must take advantage of its unique opportunities to become a leader in providing clean, reasonably priced energy for its citizens and businesses.

Infrastructure

Successful economic development efforts can only succeed if the required transportation, water/wastewater and telecommunications infrastructure is in place. Projects that will provide Delaware with the needed infrastructure are best accomplished through public/private partnerships. To be successful, our leaders must be innovative in creating partnership opportunities. Two good examples are Artesian Water’s proposal to construct and manage a southern New Castle County sewer system, and the NRG/Bluewater Wind offshore wind project. Offers to privatize infrastructure have been discussed in the past and should continue to receive consideration. This is especially important during this period when state finances are under pressure. The proper investment in infrastructure will foster economic growth.

The 54,000 sq ft Facility Features: Two Basketball/Volleyball Courts

Recreational Pool Aerobic Rooms Men’s, Women’s and Family

Locker Rooms Weight Rooms 1/8-mi Jogging Track

For more information or to become a member, please stop by the Wellness & Recreation Center on the DSU campus in Dover.

www.desu.edu 302.857.7702

Call to Action: Delaware needs to continue serious consideration of all possibilities of private/public partnerships that will help to increase and enhance our state’s infrastructure.

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view our

Economic Development

Federal Legislation

All of the topics discussed in the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce 2010 Legislative Agenda are essential ingredients for a strategy to foster economic development. During Gov. Markell’s first year, progress has been made with efforts to expand the partnership with our institutions of higher education, finding means of generating greater access to venture capital, streamlining the government permitting and regulatory process, looking for global market opportunities and aggressively promoting what Delaware has to offer to existing and new businesses. Some of the more recent successes include the cooperative agreement between the University of Delaware, Christiana Care, A.I. duPont Hospital, and Jefferson University Hospital for health care training and research, the purchase of the General Motors plant by Fisker Automotive and the Delaware Economic Development Office’s LIFT program for small business lending. These projects are a good start, but the work continues, especially in developing a cooperative and coordinated permitting and regulatory system.

We will be keeping a close watch on federal legislation that will change our health care delivery system, address climate change, alter the way that workers can choose to form a union and challenge Delaware’s position as the corporate capital of the world. The message to our congressional delegation is that the outcome of these legislative efforts can have a profound affect on the Delaware business community. It is important that we provide affordable health care, meet the challenges of efficient energy production and climate change, protect the workers’ rights and address corporate abuse in a way that does not unfairly hurt Delaware’s business.

Call to Action: We must continue the efforts that have proved to be successful in the past year. This ongoing effort to find new business ventures and support existing business will create jobs and produce income for Delaware’s citizens.

Call to Action: Make certain that our representatives in Washington understand the consequences of federal legislation for Delaware and its business community.

Over the past 15 months, Delawareans have been required to meet some of the most difficult challenges we have faced since the 1970s. Working together, business and the state are beginning to find success in addressing these challenges in what has been a unique chapter in our state’s history. n

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development economic

Delaware Economic Development Office (DEDO) Executive Director Alan Levin speaks at a February 2009 press conference announcing the creation of 300 new jobs to Barclaycard US. Photos courtesy of DEDO

Creating Opportunities in Delaware Markell and Levin Work to Bring Jobs to the State

By Larry Nagengast

D

on’t let the big headlines fool you.

Gov. Jack Markell beamed proudly in October as Fisker Automotive announced its plan to buy the shuttered General Motors assembly plant near Wilmington and build plug-in hybrid electic cars there. That news came on the heels of the University Delaware’s (UD) announcement that it will purchase the vacant Chrysler plant in Newark and turn it into a research and technology campus.

In less than two weeks, new uses had been found for the two huge manufacturing sites that had become the most conspicuous symbols of the state’s declining economy.

“The big ones get the front page,” Markell acknowledges, but that doesn’t mean he’s moving away from the economic development strategy he proposed when he took office a year ago.

Working closely with Alan Levin, the former CEO of the Happy Harry’s drug store chain who became director of the Delaware Economic Development Office, Markell continues to emphasize strengthening small businesses that are already operating in Delaware and recruiting small to mid-sized businesses that are likely flying under the radar of larger states.

While it’s too early to project the economic significance of UD’s Chrysler plant purchase, the anticipated impact of the Fisker project – 2,500 jobs at the plant, 3,000 more for Fisker suppliers, with the state offering $21.5 million in incentives – cannot be denied.

But Markell and Levin know they can’t win the economic development game by trying to slug home runs. Small states aren’t long-ball hitters. However, Markell says, “we can be

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faster, more aggressive, more agile.”

Having worked previously as business executives, “we come from similar backgrounds, the Governor and I,” Levin says.

“We’re not used to a lot of red tape. We don’t understand why things can’t get done and why we can’t move forward.”

Small business, Levin notes, “represents 93 percent of the businesses in the state, and 47 percent of the people in the state work for small businesses. That’s a big deal.”

The administration’s signature effort to support small business is a new program called LIFT, for Limited Investment for Financial Traction. It allows businesses with three to 50 employees to borrow up to $25,000; the state pays the interest on the loan for the first two years, then the company pays back the loan, interest-free, over the next five years. Loans are available through eight banks, including Artisans’, Bank of Delmarva, Christiana Bank and Trust, County Bank, Community Bank Delaware, Wilmington Trust and WSFS. Since LIFT was launched in April, more than 30 businesses have signed up, including a toy and kite shop in Rehoboth Beach, a Newark-area dentist who is opening an office in Millsboro, and the Archer Group, the Wilmington interactive marketing agency, which has already more than doubled in size and revenues in the past two years.

“Participating in the LIFT program helps us get more competitive as we continue to compete nationally. All of the investments we are making as a result of LIFT are ones that we were planning to make over the next 18 months, but LIFT allows us to make those investments, and thus reap the

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economic development

Delaware’s leadership was in attendance as Henrik Fisker, CEO of Fisker Automotive, announced its purchase of the General Motors plant.

rewards sooner,” says Lee Mikles, Archer Group co-founder and CEO. “For us, it’s the right jolt of caffeine for our business.”

Markell and Levin are also working to reduce governmentcreated obstacles to efficiency in the private sector.

State officials are now working with their county and municipal counterparts to develop a uniform business license application, so a company that needs licenses to operate in, for example, New Castle County and Wilmington as well in the state, could fill out one form to secure all three licenses.

“If we can do licensing first, then we’ll start looking at [state] regulations” that apply to different types of businesses, Levin says.

“Businesses are not making any money filling out forms. There is a function for government. Government has to do its duty, but you have to make sure you don’t cross the line,” he adds.

“We’re looking for how to get rid of the red tape, get rid of the impediments,” Markell says, inviting businesses to let him know about state regulations they consider particularly onerous. But, he cautions, the state has no intention of embarking on largescale deregulation. “We’re not going to stop protecting workers, we’re not going to permit poisoning waters,” he says.

Another economic development initiative is the Delaware Sports Commission, which aims to capitalize on Delaware’s location and tourism amenities to bring regional and national sports competitions to the First State. Matt Sparks, the commission’s executive director, cites the Little League Softball World Series, held annually in Roxana, and the Eastern Sectional Figure Skating Championships, held in November at the University of Delaware, as examples of the type of event the commission wants to bring to Delaware. Competitions like these increase usage of athletic facilities, bring spectators who fill hotels and restaurants and who spend money shopping and on entertainment, Sparks says.

“It’s a tool for economic development,” Sparks says, “and it also gives the community hosting an event more vibrancy, more visibility.”

As the economy recovers, Levin anticipates growth in manufacturing, not only to support the Fisker initiative but also in conjunction with the wind farm planned off the coast of eastern Sussex County. Levin envisions plants that would manufacture both the towers and turbines for the windmills and believes that if Delaware does become the first state to have an offshore wind

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farm, manufacturing facilities here could provide the components for similar projects elsewhere in the country.

In biotechnology, recruiting smaller companies, some little more than start-ups, adds to the state’s economic diversity, Levin says. “Some are going to hit, some are going to hit it in a big way,” he says. “They fill a void in this community. They are employing people. They are providing research that a DuPont or an AstraZeneca could use.”

Neither Markell nor Levin has the stomach for interstate bidding wars to attract businesses. It’s far better to work with your neighbors and get a significant piece of the pie than to battle them and get nothing at all, Levin says.

Both remain committed to picking up the phone or hitting the road to bring business to the state. For them, no job is too small.

“Some companies tell us that when they deal with other states, if you don’t have 250 jobs or more, they’re not interested in talking to you,” Markell says. “Alan and I went to Seaford for 10 jobs, we’ve been to companies for four jobs, for five jobs. Every job matters.” n Looking Beyond the Border While the Markell administration’s economic development strategy focuses on strengthening small businesses and encouraging small firms with strong growth potential to locate here, the Governor is also paying attention to national and international companies that have single operations in Delaware – Kraft Foods and PPG Industries, for example.

When major companies develop new products, they often need new manufacturing sites. Those expansion and investment decisions, Markell says, “are not necessarily made in Delaware.”

The state’s objective, he explains, is to make sure that local plant managers see that Delaware is a good place to do business, and that they make sure they let their leaders at corporate headquarters know.

“When all the managers of Kraft Foods, for example, get together and talk to their boss,” Markell says, “I want all the managers after that conversation to say, ‘I wish we were in Delaware, because they really get it.’”

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partnerships

Speakers during the session, “Ensuring Highly Effective Teachers for All Delaware Students” are (from left) Jeffry Raffel, professor, University of Delaware, Jack Perry, executive director, Prestige Academy, Diane Donohue, president, Delaware State Education Association, Crystal Harmon, and Sandi Jacobs, vice president for policy, National Council on Teacher Quality. Photo by Kathy F. Atkinson/University of Delaware

Race to the Top

By Larry Nagengast

D

elawareans can expect to see some bold plans to transform public education in 2010 and beyond.

And, the bolder the plans, the more likely it is that Delaware will secure federal funds to make them work.

Governor Jack Markell and various state education leaders offered their thoughts on more school reforms and U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan offered the carrot of significant federal aid during the “Vision 2015 and Delaware’s Race to the Top” conference at the University of Delaware on Oct. 27. The conference was a part of the series, “Creating Knowledge-Based Partnerships,” co-sponsored by the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce and its affiliate, the Delaware Public Policy Institute as well as the Office of the Governor, the Delaware Department of education, The Rodel Charitable Foundation of Delaware, Vision 2015, Education Voters of Delaware, the Delaware Business Rountable, First State Innovation, Delaware State University, Delaware Technical and Community College and the News Journal.

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The conference theme neatly captured the reform message.

Vision 2015 is the collaborative state program, organized in late 2006 by education, government, business and community leaders, that aims to create “world-class schools” in the state by 2015.

Race to the Top is the name of the Obama administration’s new education initiative – $4.35 billion in competitive grants to be awarded in two rounds during 2010 to the states that develop the most innovative plans to increase student achievement, improve graduation rates and narrow the achievement gap between white and minority students.

While making no promises, Duncan’s comments referred to two qualities that help Delaware in its bid for a slice of the federal pie: its manageable size and the work Vision 2015 has already done in edging often-conflicting education constituencies toward a consensus.

“You’re not going to agree on everything, but keep coming together, stay at the table,” Duncan said.

As 2009 raced to its close, state Department of Education officials were polishing the final draft of a new strategic plan

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Partnerships

innovation and useful assistance,” Markell said.

“These schools will be in districts that are given flexibility to innovate and allocate resources to improve performance but will also be held strictly accountable for their work. The state government that offers that local flexibility must reward results and, for the first time, demand an end to business as usual at schools that are not making real progress,” he said.

Among the key points Markell made: The new Delaware Comprehensive Assessment System, successor to the oft-criticized Delaware Student Testing Program, can be administered up to three times a year, giving teachers nearly real-time feedback to gauge students’ progress and the opportunity to make adjustments in teaching tactics.

The state will work closely with schools and districts on a campaign to increase parent participation in school activities.

“Parental involvement can be the most critical factor for student success,” he said.

‘All of the things we need to be doing need to be done because one-third of Delaware’s students are failing every day.’

John Taylor, executive director of the Delaware Public Policy Institute, moderates the panel on “Ensuring Highly Effective Teachers for All Delaware Students.” Photo by Evan Krape/University of Delaware

for Delaware’s public schools and working on their application for Race to the Top funding.

Even before those documents were completed, Markell’s speech at the conference and the key themes at two panel discussions offered strong hints at a new direction for education, one that leaves no room for “business as usual” practices.

The conference’s overriding message is that the needs of students must come first.

“All of the things we need to be doing need to be done because one-third of Delaware’s students are failing every day,” said John H. Taylor Jr., executive director of the Delaware Public Policy Institute and one of the panel moderators. “We have to keep focused on what’s best for our students. If we keep that focus, we’ll end up in the right place.”

Reaching the right place, numerous panelists and speakers suggested, will require putting more decision-making responsibility in the hands of building principals, making an intensive effort to turn around the lowest-performing schools and giving new teachers better preparation for the challenges they’ll face in the classroom.

“It is now our turn to be courageous,” State Secretary of Education Lillian M. Lowery said.

“By placing our children’s needs first and foremost, Delaware schools will produce students prepared to succeed. Those students will learn in schools staffed by highly qualified teachers who are passionate about their profession and are managed by administrators who offer inspiration and collaboration, access to

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— John H. Taylor Jr. The state will review and reduce the number of administrative and classroom mandates that cut into the time teachers have available to work with students.

The state will offer incentives to schools that develop teacher leaders who can serve as coaches and curriculum specialists and will work with districts and schools to create a more collaborative leadership model that will enable principals to spend less time on school operations and more time supervising and supporting teachers.

Additional supports will be provided for low-performing schools and “difficult choices” – including the possibility of new leadership – will be made for those that don’t show improvement.

“You can’t just pull one lever. You have to do four or five things simultaneously” to turn around low-performing schools, said panelist William H. Guenther, president and founder of the Mass Insight Education and Research Institute.

Guenther and other panelists mentioned numerous turnaround strategies, including replacing the principal and most, if not all, of the staff; going to a charter-school model; offering teachers more pay in return for a longer school day or school year; and creating partnerships with outside agencies to manage selected schools.

Delaware’s small size, Guenther said, gives it a significant advantage over other states.

In focusing on the 5 percent of schools whose performance is lowest, he said, “you can become a national model by turning around only six schools in the next three years.” n

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ad bc vo dc e fg ates of hope

Advocates of Hope Provides Resources to Businesses

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dvocates of Hope: Raising Cancer Awareness in the Business Community grew out of a cancer awareness initiative launched by the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce in 2005. Through the generosity of businesses and business owners, the group has presented a statewide summit, a three-part lecture series, and numerous high-quality educational and inspirational speakers. This year, the group created a toolkit that outlines valuable resources available to employers in Delaware to assist and guide them and their employees through the impact of a diagnosis of cancer.

The video, featuring testimonials by First Lady Carla Markell and Delaware Governor Jack Markell, Advocates of Hope founders Linda Drake and Jim Randall and others, will give viewers insight from business people touched directly by cancer. The 2009 package is available free of charge to members.

Chamber members are encouraged to watch the video, review the toolkit and sign on to www.dscc.com to take the free assessment designed to help business leaders identify

The Advocates of Hope toolkit for employers is available to members free of charge.

or create a cancer plan. Assessment results and one-on-one follow-up are available from qualified professionals at Cancer Care Connection. n

2009 Advocates of Hope Committee Katie Wilkinson – Chair Wilmington Trust Company

Susan Forbes American Cancer Society

Pam Marecki Bayhealth Medical Center

Donna Stinson Bayhealth Medical Center

Linda Drake – Co-Founder TCIM Services

Chris Grundner The Kelly Heinz-Grundner Brain Tumor Foundation, Inc.

David McGuigan George & Lynch, Inc.

Janet Teixeira Cancer Care Connection

Priscilla Rakestraw Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition

Sam Waltz Sam Waltz & Associates LLC Counsel

Jill Royston AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, Lp

Jymayce Wescott Office of Senator Thomas R. Carper

Sharon Ruth Willis of Delaware

Nancy Wilson Delaware Department of Education

Jim Randall – Co-Founder Liberty Staffing Joya Asika Delaware Division of Public Health William Bowser Young Conaway Stargatt & Taylor, LLP

Cheryl Heiks LLuminari, Inc. Cathy Holloway Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition Tyrone Jones AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals

Heather Shupe Dover Federal Credit Union

Cheryl Corn Delaware State Chamber of Commerce

Janis Julian WSFS Bank

Jeff Dayton Office of Congressman Mike Castle

Bernadette Lane Westside Family Healthcare

Michelle Sobczyk The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Delaware Chapter

Mike Gallagher The Wellness Community - Delaware

Hugh Leahy Delaware Community Foundation

Janine Sorbello Delaware State Chamber of Commerce

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ae y ba cr d ei n fgr e v i e w

2009:

a year in the life of the chamber

January • Presentation of the Cup

Marvel Cup winner Marvin N. “Skip” Schoenhals poses with the award at the Annual Dinner on January 12, 2009. from left: Congressman Mike Castle, State Chamber President & CEO Jim Wolfe, Sen. Tom Carper, Chairman of the State Chamber’s Board of Directors Ric Struthers of Bank of America, Gov. Ruth Ann Minner, Schoenhals, then Gov-elect Jack Markell, Sen. Ted Kaufman. Photo by Dick Dubroff

January • A Model Winner

Marvel Cup winner Marvin N. “Skip” Schoenhals, left, is welcomed to the stage by Congressman Mike Castle, center, and Sen. Tom Carper, after the Marvel Cup award was announced. Schoenhals was described as “a man to model your life after” during the award presentation. Photo by Dick Dubroff

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in a brced ve ie fg w year

January • Keynote Address

Tony Zook of AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP delivers keynote remarks at the Annual Dinner as then Gov.-elect Jack Markell, right, and State Chamber President & CEO Jim Wolfe look on. Zook is CEO of AstraZeneca North America, Executive Vice President Global Marketing for AstraZeneca and President of Medimmune. Photo by Dick Dubroff

January • Start Your Engines!

Chamber members get ready to race at Mid Atlantic Grand Prix in New Castle. The Chamber hosted a Networking Breakfast where attendees got a chance to meet and greet before racing on the indoor track.

Photo by Kelly Cofrancisco

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February • Budget Briefing

Chamber members packed the Board Room to hear Governor Jack Markell’s budget briefing. Photo by Katie Grasso

February • Networking with a Cause

from left: Cathy Blanchet of Foxfire Printing and Packaging Inc., Noelia Estevez of United Credit Education Services, and Charlotte McGarry of the Food Bank of Delaware chatted at the Networking Breakfast at the Food Bank’s Newark warehouse. The event featured a buffet breakfast and a tour of the facility. Photo by Katie Grasso

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February • Morning Fiesta

Lelia Pierce of Holiday Inn Select, Kenyon Hunter of AT&T and Jarrod Dingle of Enterprise Rent-a-Car talked at the Networking Breakfast at Qdoba Mexican Grill on Market Street in Wilmington. Photo by Kelly Cofrancisco

March • Leadership Luncheon

April • Manufacturing Conference

U.S. Senator Ted Kaufman was the keynote speaker at the Chamber’s Leadership Luncheon at the Hotel duPont.

Approximately 150 people attended the event to hear from Kaufman, who was appointed to the U.S. Senate after Vice President Joe Biden was elected in November 2008. Photo by Katie Grasso

Scott Welch of Mohawk Electrical Systems, right, greets an attendee during the Manufacturing Conference and Legislative Brunch at Dover Downs. Photo by Katie Grasso

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May • One Super Night

Lt. Governor Matt Denn, at podium, gave out awards to educators who successfully replicated a winning Superstar in Education program at their schools. Photo by Eric Crossan

May • Sweet Business

Chamber members picked out flavors of their complimentary ice cream cones at Marble Slab Creamery in Newark during an evening mixer networking loop that included Firebirds Restaurant and Potsticker’s Asian Grill.

Photo by Katie Grasso

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May • Stimulus Program Forum

Joe Zilkowsky of the Delaware Economic Development Office explains the funding options available for small businesses. Photo by Kelly Cofrancisco

June • Beer Heaven

July • The Dog Days of Summer

Dogfish Head Craft Brewery owner Sam Calagione, right, gives State Chamber members a tour of the Milton brewery and explained the brewing process during an Evening Mixer.

Photo by Kelly Cofrancisco

Members got a chance to bring their dogs networking with them at Dogtopia. The day-care facility provides Web cam access so owners can see their dog while they are away.

Photo by Katie Grasso

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August • Networking Breakfast

Attendees at the Networking Breakfast at the Courtyard Marriott at the University of Delaware were given a tour of the hotel, including its outdoor restaurant and X-room, an experimental hotel room used for teaching students. Photo by Katie Grasso

September • Health Plan Launch

Jim Wolfe, president and CEO of the State Chamber, addresses the media and chamber members at a press conference announcing the State Chamber’s health plan. On hand to help with the announcement were from left Tim Constantine, president and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Delaware, Don Fulton, co-chair of the Small Business Alliance, and State Representative Bryon Short. Photo by Katie Grasso

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September • Women in Business

State Chamber members packed the room to attend a meeting of its newest committee, Women in Business, which meets quarterly to discuss business and legislative issues. Photo by Katie Grasso

October • Going for a Spin

A Chamber member takes a break from networking at the Joint Tabletop Networking Mixer to navigate a mini-bike course at the Chase Center on the Riverfront. The mini-bike was an activity set up by The Fun Dept.

Photo by Dick Dubroff

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October • Leadership Luncheon

Delaware Technical and Community College students came to the Leadership Luncheon to hear former Dupont Company executive Stacey Mobley discuss his rise to success. from left: student Vinny Cartolo, President and CEO of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce Jim Wolfe, and students Arnold Hicks and Johnny McClain. Photo by Katie Grasso

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October • Happy Anniversary

Reggie the mascot helped Fast Signs celebrate its 20th anniversary at the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce and Better Business Bureau Joint Tabletop Networking Mixer at the Chase Center on the Riverfront in October.

Photo by Dick Dubroff

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year

October • Leadership Luncheon

in review

from left: Stacey Mobley stops to talk to Bruce Beardwood and Marvin “Skip” Schoenhals before Mobley’s speech at the Leadership Luncheon. Photo by Katie Grasso

November • A Surprise Win

Barry Crozier of Belfint Lyons and Shuman P.A. was awarded the Gilman Bowl at the Superstars in Business Awards Luncheon. The identity of the recipient is a secret until it is announced at the luncheon. from left: Former Governor Pete du Pont, Muriel Gilman, Cindy Dwyer of the Wellness Community – Delaware, Crozier, Al Morris of A.R. Morris Jewelers (2008 Gilman Cup recipient), and Jim Wolfe, president and CEO of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce. Photo by Dick Dubroff

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review year

in

November • Superstars in Business

from left: Richelle Vible of Catholic Charities, Martha and Muriel Gilman of the Gilman Development Company, and Fritz Jones of Catholic Charities pose for the camera. Catholic Charities was named a Superstars in Business winner for the non-profit category. Photo by Dick Dubroff

December • Leadership Luncheon

David Ledford, executive editor of the News Journal, talked about the future of the newspaper industry at the Leadership Luncheon. Photo by Kelly Cofrancisco

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2010

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government a ff a i r s

The Difficult Balance of 2009

By A. Richard Heffron

G

overnor Jack Markell celebrated his election victory on the evening of November 4, 2008, and then woke up the next morning to face an $800 million budget deficit. The crisis was brought on by a global financial collapse 60 days before Election Day. Everything the new Governor wanted to do immediately took a back seat to balancing a state budget that was out of balance because 20 percent of the expected revenue had disappeared virtually overnight.

By common sense, cajoling, arm twisting and salesmanship, the administration and the General Assembly were able to fashion a balanced FY 09 budget and pass a balanced FY 10 budget by 4 a.m. on July 1, 2009. In the end, a combination of $200 million in federal stimulus funds, $200 million in fee and tax increases and $400 million in spending cuts was the formula for meeting the constitutional requirement that the Governor sign budget bills (operating, capital and grant-in-aid) that match spending with revenues.

Included in the spending cut package was the elimination of at least 500 government positions through attrition, the implementation of government efficiency programs and cuts in each department’s spending. Just after the General Assembly adjourned, the Governor announced the state was planning to fold the responsibilities of the Finance Department into other departments and as of September, 1,000 positions will be eliminated through attrition. Every cabinet secretary is in the process of implementing efficiencies that will cut spending.

The fee and tax package included: • HS 1 for HB 260 – Increasing the tax on lottery winnings.

• HS 1 for HB 262 – Increasing the current state surcharge on documents filed with the county recorders.

• HS 1 for HB 263 – Increase fire marshal fees.

• HS 1 for HB 264 – Increase personal income tax for residents making more than $60,000 annually, with a four-year sunset attached.

• HB 1 for HB 267 – Increase fees and taxes charged by the Secretary of State.

• HB 286 – Increase fees for vital certificates.

• HB 288 – Increase tax rates on public utilities other than cable television.

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Shortly after his inauguration in January 2009, Governor Jack Markell came to the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce to brief business owners on the state’s budget. Photo by Katie Grasso

• HB 289 – Roll back the 2007 gross receipts tax cuts, with a four-year sunset restoring the 2007 rates.

• HB 291 – Reintroduce the estate tax for estates valued at more than $3.5 million.

In addition, there was an agreement with the firms managing the vessel-to-vessel transfers of petroleum products to pay an annual $100,000 license fee. Finally, for the second year in a row, an increase on alcohol taxes was defeated.

Education

The General Assembly and the administration continued the education reform efforts started 15 years ago. The federal No Child Left Behind program added more structure to the reform.

Vision 2015, developed by the Delaware Business Roundtable and supported by the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce, has energized Delaware reform efforts. President Barack Obama’s Race to the Top education reform program may provide substantial funding for following the Vision 2015 recommendations.

The Governor signed SB 68 replacing the Delaware Student Testing Program with a series of tests that will be administered in grade levels two through 10 beginning in the 2010-2011 school year. The tests will be given at the beginning of the school year

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a ff a i r s

With the possibility of revenues being as much as $350 million lower than

government

needed to meet the current budget expectations, the 2010 legislative session can be expected to be just as difficult as the last one. and at least one more time later in the year. This bill will also allow parents, teachers, and the state to assess student progress as well as provide benchmarks for students, schools and district achievement.

In an effort to reward schools serving a large number of students from economically disadvantaged families, the General Assembly passed SB 151. This legislation creates a pilot Academic Achievement Awards program using federal stimulus money to financially reward schools that close the achievement gap and exceed adequate yearly progress for these high-risk children.

The DSCC and the Delaware Business Roundtable worked hard for the successful passage of HB 102, legislation enabling the implementation of the Teach for America program in lowincome communities in Delaware. Teachers in this program began teaching this past fall.

Also passed this session was HS 1 for HB 119, designed to give schools more flexibility to spend tax dollars on the education of students, while establishing safeguards to insure responsible spending. This bill creates a process for local schools and districts to seek relief from rules and procedures when they provide evidence that the rules impede its ability to educate students. These changes will allow local districts to make earlier job offers to teachers and help them recruit and retain the best teachers in our region, and allows the tailoring of resources that districts can dedicate to students with disabilities.

The legislature passed SB 72, which will renew the Water Supply Coordinating Council. This entity focuses on updating water availability, water demand projections and achieving the goal of water supply self-sufficiency The General Assembly passed, but the Governor vetoed, HB 201 that would have sunset Delaware’s “bottle bill” statute enacted in the mid-1980s. After vetoing the bill, the Governor explained that he would like to see a more comprehensive recycling policy and has been discussing other methods of accomplishing this with supporters of HB 201.

Labor

Several bills were passed that update the Delaware Limited Liability Company Act to keep it current and maintain its national preeminence.

After years of debate, legislation that forbids discrimination against a person on the basis of sexual orientation in housing, employment, public works contracting, public accommodations and insurance was passed and signed, SB 121.

Two bills were passed this session that will allow the state to receive additional federal funds to address the problems of unemployment. SB 156 provides extended unemployment benefits to states experiencing high levels of unemployment, as defined by certain unemployment rate triggers. The second piece of legislation, HB 170, will expand eligibility standards for unemployment compensation as required by Congress for the receipt of the unemployment insurance federal stimulus money.

Legislation supported by the State Chamber was introduced requiring prevailing wages for school district construction projects shall be no higher than the prevailing wages in effect at the time of the passage of a school referendum. However, SB 28 never made it out of the Senate Labor and Industrial Relations Committee.

Energy & the Environment

Gambling

Senator Harris B. McDowell (D-Wilmington) championed several bills aimed at making Delaware a national leader in energy efficiency. Included is SB 85 that establishes net energy metering, allowing customers to apply credits earned from excess generation of renewable energy to future utility bills.

McDowell also managed SB 106 that deals with energy efficiency resource standards and energy efficiency planning. This act creates Energy Efficiency Resource Standards and establishes goals for consumption and peak demand for electricity and natural gas utilities in Delaware. The goals are 15 percent electricity consumption savings and 10 percent natural gas consumption savings by 2015. Also passed was SB 173 that updates the Delaware Sustainable Energy Utility (SEU) statute.

A bill that will help Delaware agriculture business, SB 115, now permits farmers to use reclaimed water irrigation systems.

As was expected, HB 100, which re-established a sports lottery, taking advantage of an exemption granted to the State of Delaware under federal law, was enacted early in the legislative session. In a surprisingly narrow decision, the federal 3rd Circuit Court ruled that restrictions in the federal legislation only allow Delaware to offer parlay bets on NFL games. This decision significantly reduced the amount of revenue Delaware can expect from sports betting.

The legislation also allowed for the introduction of table games once regulations and rules are promulgated and approved by the legislature. A commission appointed by the Governor is now working on a recommendation to the General Assembly for the adoption of rules and regulations. Once these are approved by the legislature and signed by the Governor, the racinos expect it will take about six months to offer the table game option to their customers.

Corporations

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Health care

After successful negotiations between health insurance companies and the Insurance Commissioner’s office, SS 1 for SB 35 was passed and signed. This grants the Delaware Insurance Department the same ability to review health insurance premium rates that it now has for auto insurance, homeowner’s insurance and all other lines of property and casualty insurance.

Economic Development

In April, the Governor signed SB 107, stating that benefits derived from economic development do not constitute a public use for the purpose of eminent domain proceeding. The State Chamber opposed this legislation, stating that Delaware governments had not abused their eminent domain powers, and this legislation will remove an important economic development tool during a period when the creation of economic opportunity and jobs is most difficult.

With the possibility of revenues being as much as $350 million lower than needed to meet the current budget expectations, the 2010 legislative session can be expected to be just as difficult as the last one. The Governor has said that fee and tax increases are not on the table, so the path forward to a balanced budget will have limited options. With 2010 being an election year for every member of the House of Representatives and half the Senate, the process of passing a balanced budget will be even more fascinating to watch. n

Leadership Through leadership, strength and a commitment to excellence, we can reach new heights together. We proudly salute the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce.

jpmorganchase.com

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© 2010 JPMorgan Chase & Co.

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the partnership

Connecting Education and Business

By Janine Sorbello

T

he Partnership, Inc. is committed to initiatives that focus on raising student achievement and preparing our future workforce for competing in the global economy. And with a national dropout rate of 30 percent, The Partnership Chairman Mark Stellini of Virtual Resources, recognizes that there is a lot of work to be done. “Through the Superstars in Education and Principal for a Day programs the State Chamber is able to provide a venue to recognize and replicate award-winning programs and form partnerships between business leaders and educators,” says Stellini.

Superstars in Education

Since its inception in 1990, Superstars in Education has recognized 236 educational programs that have a direct impact on student achievement. “Winning a Superstars in Education award is one of the most prestigious honors a school or district in the State of Delaware can receive. For teachers and staff members, it is a validation of the hard work they have invested in helping every student be successful in the classroom,” says Susan Bunting, superintendent of Indian River School District and two-time Superstars in Education award winner.

More than 400 people registered to attend and share the limelight with six winning programs at the May 3, 2009 Superstars in Education dinner at the Chase Center on the Riverfront.

Each winning program was presented to the audience through a video showcase followed by an on-stage awards presentation to the educators. Perhaps the most helpful aspect of winning this award was a check for $2,500 to invest back into the program.

Lillian Lowery, Delaware’s secretary of education, addresses the audience at the Superstars in Education Awards dinner in May 2009.

Photo by Eric Crossan

Since its inception in 1990, Superstars in Education has recognized 236 educational programs that have a direct impact on student achievement. school’s achievement. A banner and trophy were presented, as well. “It is always a thrill to display the Superstars banner in one of our school buildings,” Bunting says. “The banner signifies that the school is among the best in the state.”

Superstars Hits the Road

Immediately following the dinner, the Superstars in Education program toured the state. From Wilmington to Milford to Selbyville, a celebration was hosted at each winning school.

Parents, teachers, administrators and district representatives gathered to watch the video with the students and celebrate the

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Principal for a Day

In October, 157 business and government leaders spent the day at a school as part of the “Principal for a Day” program.

Guest principals were immersed in a principal’s typical day, from the morning buses to lunch duty. In addition to the

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partnership the

atmosphere affords business leaders the opportunity to experience both the joys and challenges of preparing students to become tomorrow’s workforce. Since 1993, the Principal for a Day program has connected the business and education communities so that each can learn about the other’s respective professions, share management ideas and often develop ongoing working relationships. To see a list of the 2009 Principal for a Day participants, turn to page 44.

Teacher Externship Program

Jim Coyne of AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP plays the game, Are you Smarter than a Fifth Grader?, with a fifth grade class at Conrad Schools of Science. Photo by Janine Sorbello

routine tasks of running a school, one person helped a custodian with maintenance issues while another played the piano for the fifth grade. Some were interviewed by students; others delivered lectures on financial philosophy and management to students.

Some even calmed flustered substitute teachers. The message of the day seemed clear: jump in and help.

A Principal for a Day follow-up breakfast was held in November so participants could share experiences and discover the similarities and differences among schools. Comparing notes with colleagues provided an even deeper understanding of the issues that principals face. This total immersion in an educational

In June, the Teacher Externship Program, a partnership between the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce, the Delaware Department of Education, and the Delaware Business, Industry, Education (BIE) Alliance, sent 70 educators to 32 different Delaware companies to spend a week in a corporate environment. The business world became a classroom to enable educators to gain first-hand knowledge of current applications in their field. This program allows educators to bring new information back into the classroom to better prepare Delaware students for tomorrow’s career opportunities.

The week culminated with a wrap-up workshop held in Dover with educators sharing their experiences during roundtable discussions. High school civics and U.S. history teacher Bradley Layfield says the Teacher Externship program provided an invaluable opportunity. “This was the single best professional development (experience) I’ve had in eight years in education!” n To learn more about The Partnership, Inc. and its programs, call Janine Sorbello at (302) 576-6575 or e-mail jsorbello@dscc.com.

2009 The Partnership, Inc. Board of Directors

Chairman Mark S. Stellini Virtual Resources, LLC

Christina Favilla Discover Bank

Doug Gramiak Education Voters of Delaware

Dr. Paul A. Herdman The Rodel Charitable Foundation of Delaware

Ralph A. Kuebler Chairman, Superstars in Education Selection Committee

Dr. Lillian M. Lowery Secretary of Education

Dr. Linda F. Poole Educationally Speaking, LLC

Hon. David P. Sokola State Senator

Peggy E. Strine

Joseph L. Yacyshyn Wilmington Trust Company

Carolyn Zogby Red Clay School District

janine sorbello executive director

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Willie C. Martin DuPont

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Principal for a Day

the

The State Chamber salutes all of the business leaders, government officials and principals who took the time to participate in Principal for a Day. Gina Acierno TCIM Services, Inc. McCullough (Calvin R. ) Middle School Bob Alexander Barclays Bank Delaware St. Matthew’s School William Allan Verizon Delaware Silver Lake Elementary School Charles Anderson City of Seaford Blades Elementary School F.M. Ross Armbrecht Delaware Foundation for Science & Mathematics Education Lake Forest East Elementary School Tom Bacon Conectiv Energy West Park Place Elementary School

Tiffany Belcher Seaford Subway Seaford Middle School Christina Bell Belfint, Lyons & Shuman, P.A. Providence Creek Academy Murray Berstein Nixon Uniform Service & Medical Wear Penn (William) High School Joseph Biden, III Office of the Attorney General Newark High School Robert Bird Home Instead Senior Care Bedford (Gunning) Middle School Pete Booker Delmarva Broadcasting Company St. Paul

Ken Brennan Boscov’s Department Store Maclary (R. Elisabeth) Elementary School

Paul Clark New Castle County Council Pyle (Sarah) Academy

Rodney Brittingham Children, Youth and their Families South Dover Elementary School

Amy Colbourn The Star Group Centreville School

Jeffrey Bross Duffield Associates, Inc. Gauger-Cobbs Middle School Ann M. Brown Hilton Garden Inn Frear (Allen) Elementary School Phyllis Buchanan DuPont Pleasantville Elementary School Steve Buckles Remax Twin Counties And Watson’s Auction Holy Cross Elementary School Denise Cairo TechniCare, Inc. Serviam Girls Academy Thomas Carper United States Senate Thomas Edison Charter School Dominic Caruso Barclays Bank Delaware East Side Charter School John Carwell The Rodel Charitable Foundation of Delaware Moyer Academy Jeffrey Chambers DuPont duPont (H.B.) Middle School Linda Chick Chick’s POLYTECH High School

Dori Jacobson of the Rodel Charitable Foundation assists students at Gallagher Elementary School. Photo by Steve Andrejewski

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H.K. Chow Wal-Mart Supercenter #5039 Dover Air Force Base Middle School

Sandy Conner Wilmington Trust Company Claymont Elementary School Dori Connor State Senator Downie (Carrie) Elementary School Sally Coonin Reading ASSIST Institute Eisenberg (Harry O.) Elementary School Charlie Copeland Associates Graphic Services Immaculate Heart of Mary School Edie Corbin Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League Prestige Academy Charter School Brad Cowen EDiS Company Lord Baltimore Elementary School Jim Coyne AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP Conrad Schools of Science Denise Cugler Wilmington Trust Company Dunbar (Paul Laurence) Elementary School John DeEleuterio Office of U.S. Senator Ted Kaufman Concord High School Ernest Dianastasis CAI Salesianum School

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ah t be c dpeafg rtnership

Joseph Joseph “Beau” “Beau” Biden, Biden, III III met met students students from from Newark Newark High High School School when when he he participated participated in in Principal Principal for for a a Day. Day. Photo Photo by

by Matt Matt Andrejewski Andrejewski

Kathleen Dickerson State of Delaware Redding (Louis L.)Middle School Marke Dickinson AAA Mid-Atlantic Calloway (Cab) School of the Arts Brian DiSabatino EDiS Company St. Mark’s High School Rick DiSabatino EDiS Company St. Georges Technical High School Jerry Doherty EDiS Company Wilbur (Kathleen H.) Elementary James Donahue United Way of Delaware Wilmington Manor Elementary School Eileen Donnelly Wilmington University Brader (Henry M.) Elementary School

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Thère du Pont Longwood Foundation McKean (Thomas) High School

Jeffrey Fried Beebe Medical Center Cape Henlopen High School

Kenneth Godwin Belfint, Lyons & Shuman, P.A. Marbrook Elementary School

Peggy Eddens WSFS Bank Skyline Middle School

Tom Frosina Barclays Bank Delaware Highlands Elementary School

Bernice Edwards First State Community Action Agency, Inc. North Georgetown Elementary School

Melissa Gonville Chase Bank Stubbs (Frederick Douglass) Elementary School

Donald Fulton George J. Weiner Associates Ursuline Academy

Rick Gregory New Castle County MOT Charter School

Master Sgt. James Gestwicki Wilmington Police Department Shortlidge (Evan G.) Academy

Sarah Grunewald Rodel Foundation of Delaware Millsboro Middle School (741)

Rob Eppes Junior Achievement Brennen School Gerard Esposito Tidewater Utilities, Inc. Milford Middle School Christina Favilla Discover Bank Phillis Wheatley Middle School Maria Finamore Languages, Ltd., LLC Leach (John G.) School Mike Freda EDiS Company Richardson Park Learning Center

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Martha Gilman Gilman Development Company Mount Pleasant Elementary School Muriel Gilman Gilman Development Company Richey Elementary School Richard Gochnauer Wilmington University St. Elizabeth High School

Greg Gurev MySherpa New Castle School Tom Horne Bank of America Read (George) Middle School Tim Huval Bank of America Christiana High School Dori Jacobson The Rodel Charitable Foundation of Delaware Gallaher (Robert S.) Elementary School

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Kevin McGlynn Barclays Bank Delaware Nativity Preparatory School of Wilmington, Inc.

the

Melinda McGuigan KINfolk St. Mary Magdalen Tom Meadows Barclays Bank Delaware Delaware Skills Center Lynda Messick Community Bank Delaware Rehoboth Elementary School

Ken Brennan of Boscov’s sat in on a class at Maclary Elementary School.

Photo by Steve Andrejewski

Debbie Jewell Del-One Star Hill Elementary School James Johnson DE River & Bay Authority Shields (Richard A.) Elementary School Tyrone Jones AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP Howard High School of Technology Janis Julian WSFS Bank Newark Charter School Richard Kapolka Connecting Generations W. Reily Brown Elementary School Jeanne Kasey Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Delaware duPont (Alexis I.) Middle School Ralph Kuebler Superstars in Education Selection Committee Chair Maple Lane Elementary School Richard LaPenta Insurance & Financial Services, Ltd. St. Anthony of Padua Gregory Lavelle Puglisi & Associates Mount Pleasant High School

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Richard Lavesque Chase Card Services McVey (Joseph M.) Elementary School Lewis Lazarus Morris James LLP Brandywine High School Hugh Leahy Delaware Community Foundation Indian River High School Patricia Dailey Lewis Department of Justice St. Peter the Apostle School Wanda Lopez Governor’s Advisory Council on Hispanic Affairs Academy of Dover Lillian Lowery Delaware Department of Education Lake Forest High School Robert Lydum Agilent Technologies Linden Hill Elementary School Ed Macchi Barclays Bank Delaware Porter Road Elementary School Cathy MacFarlane ING DIRECT Mote (Anna P.) Elementary School

William Major Wilmington Trust Company Stanton Middle School Genevieve Marino YWCA Delaware St. Elizabeth Elementary School Melanie Marshall Richards, Layton & Finger, P.A. Leasure (May B.) Elementary School Vicky Martelli Pettinaro Relocation, Inc. Keene (William B.) Elementary School Willie Martin DuPont duPont (Alexis I.) High School Dennis McCarthy Barclays Bank Delaware Padua Academy Thomas McCarthy DE Economic Development Office Paul M. Hodgson Vocational Technical High School Pam McCutcheon WSFS Bank Long Neck Elementary School Charles McDowell Potter Anderson & Corroon, LLP Lewis (William C.) Dual Language Elementary School

Joseph Miro House of Representatives Wilson (Etta J.) Elementary School Stephen Mockbee Bancroft Construction Company North Star Elementary School Karen Morris Morris and Morris LLC Counselors at Law Warner Elementary School Terry Murphy Bayhealth Medical Center Stokes (Nellie Hughes) Elementary School Paul Mylander The Bank of Delmarva Mariner Middle School Elizabeth Olsen State of Delaware Dept. of Safety St. Thomas More Academy William Parks Colonial Parking, Inc. Talley Middle School Skip Pennella CAI Smith (Jennie E.) Elementary School Michael Petit de Mange Kent County Levy Court Dover High School John Pickering Valero Delcastle Technical High School Steve Pieper Atlantis Industries Corporation Milton Elementary School

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Lewis Schiliro DE Dept. of Safety and Homeland Security Dickinson (John) High School

Linda Poole Educationally Speaking, LLC Marshall (Thurgood) Elementary School

Susan Schmidt Barclays Bank Delaware St. Ann School

James Randall Liberty Staffing Services Ursuline Academy Jeff Raser Wilmington Trust Company North Smyrna Elementary School Michael Rasmussen The Rodel Charitable Foundation of Delaware Sussex Technical High School Scott Reihm Delaware Association of School Administrators North Dover Elementary School Robert Rescigno Vision 2015 Caesar Rodney High School Jack Riddle Community Bank Delaware H.O. Brittingham Elementary School Lynne Robinson PAWS for People Lancashire Elementary School Dennis Rochford Maritime Exchange for the Delaware River and Bay Delaware Military Academy Chip Rossi Bank of America Colwyck Elementary School Mariella Rossi AAA Mid-Atlantic Heritage Elementary School Christine Sauers Better Business Bureau of Delaware, Inc. East Dover Elementary School Chris Schell Schell Brothers East Millsboro Elementary School Preston Schell Ocean Atlantic Companies Sussex Central Senior High School

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William Ward Bill Ward, Inc. Corpus Christi

William Trench Barclays Bank Delaware Waters (Alfred G.) Middle School

Catherine Weaver Catholic Diocese of Wilmington, Inc. Southern Elementary School

Fred Sears Delaware Community Foundation Kirk (George V.) Middle School

Al Turchan Turchan Delaware National Bank North Laurel Elementary School

Carolann Wicks DE Department of Transportation Meredith (Everett) Middle School

Mark Turner WSFS Bank Wilmington Montessori School

Katherine Wilkinson Wilmington Trust Company Brandywine Springs School

Ray Seigfried Christiana Care Castle Hills Elementary School

Michael Uffner AutoTeam Delaware Pencader Charter High School

Ted Williams Landmark Engineering, Inc. Milford Senior High School

Albert Shields Delaware House of Represenatives Central Middle School

Peggy Vavally DuPont Richardson Park Elementary School

Lloyd Wirshba Barclays Bank Delaware St. Edmond’s Academy

Buck Simpers Buck Simpers Architect + Associates, Inc. Woodbridge High School

R. Thomas Wagner DE Auditor of Accounts Major George S. Welch Elementary School

Keith Schuck JPMorgan Chase Bancroft Elementary School

Bradley Skelcher Delaware State University Smyrna High School Janine Sorbello Delaware State Chamber of Commerce Sunnyside Elementary School Phil Steitz Barclays Bank Delaware Brandywood Elementary School Mark Stellini Virtual Resources, LLC Archmere Academy Thomas Stevenson WSFS Bank Brookside Elementary School

James Wolfe Delaware State Chamber of Commerce Shue-Medill Middle School

Enid Wallace-Simms Delmarva Power Bayard Middle School

Jacquita WrightHenderson Delaware Technical & Community College Middletown High School

Amy Walls Discover Bank Woodbridge Elementary School

Joseph Yacyshyn Wilmington Trust Company Our Lady of Fatima School Katie Wilkinson of Wilmington Trust assists a student with an assignment at Brandywine Springs Elementary School.

Photo by Janine Sorbello

Helen Stewart JPMorgan Chase Elbert-Palmer Elementary School Karen Weldin Stewart Delaware Insurance Jones (Albert H.) Elementary School Peggy Strine Partnership Board Vice Chair Baltz (Austin D.) Elementary School

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Connie Bond Stuart PNC Bank, Delaware Kuumba Academy

ah t be c dpeafg rtnership

Paul Pomeroy Aloysius Butler & Clark Downes (John R.) Elementary School

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Thank you

Sponsors

for your support of the Delaware State Chamber’s 173rd Annual Dinner Dinner sponsored by:

Reception sponsored by:

Supporter level:

Gunnip & Company Santora CPA Group Invitation & program by:

DesignDesign, Inc. Delaware State Chamber of Commerce www.dscc.com

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ab r et ca di e l fg

DRC Helps Retailers Weather Storm

By Ken Brennan

I

t is news to no one that we are living in transformational times.

If the speed of technological advances, rising expenses, and an explosion of competition weren’t enough to keep retailers’ attention, a serious recession has forced those in the retail arena to become very focused.

For these reasons, the retail industry is often more sensitive than other sectors to serious financial impacts resulting from increased government regulation.

The Delaware Retail Council (DRC) serves the state’s retail community in a number of ways: it monitors emerging legislation and its impact on retailers and effectively represents retailers’ concerns in the state legislature.

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Through the power of the Delaware State Chamber’s membership and the cooperation of Delaware’s legislature, the DRC has highly interactive relationships with many legislators who are willing to listen and work together to achieve fair legislative outcomes which do not threaten a retailer’s viability.

The DRC, often in partnership with the Delaware Food Industry Council, has helped shape legislation on issues ranging from the gross receipts tax to workers’ compensation to plastic bag recycling. The DRC was also instrumental in The Delaware Retail Council hosted a Networking Breakfast at the Christiana Mall to celebrate retailers and take a sneak peak at the mall’s renovations. Photo by Katie Grasso

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adding a special prosecutor to the state attorney general’s office dedicated to prosecuting growing retail crime.

Retailers comprise a large and vital element of our Delaware economy. Delaware retailers employ about 84,000 Delawareans, about 20 percent of the state’s total workforce. We contribute almost $18 billion in sales activity through the 5,400 retail establishments that call Delaware home.

Delawareans rely on retailers to help them put food on their kitchen table or to buy that kitchen table. From food to furniture to automobiles, retailers supply the products that shape our lifestyles.

The easing economic crisis has left considerable damage and pain in its wake. One thing, which may be a clearer as a result of this economic mayhem, is how interconnected and interdependent we are. Business is reliant on customers for sales.

Customers are reliant on employment for income. Governments depend on business and workers for tax revenue in order to provide needed services.

When employment and tax revenues decrease, personal spending slows, then retail sales decrease and retail employment shrinks, further decreasing tax revenue and economic decline.

But there are growing signs that consumers are slowly and cautiously emerging from their economic storm cellars. Monthly reports of retail performance have signaled a recovery is underway. As the crisis abates, Delaware’s retailers will continue to benefit from the DRC’s ability to monitor and respond to legislative activity that can negatively impact profitability and in some cases, even survival in these challenging times. n

The Kenny Family ShopRites Welcome You!

Ken Brennan is the 2010 chair of the Delaware Retail Council.

2009 Delaware Retail Council Board of Directors

De Supermarkets Thomas R. Zapf (Chairman) Macy’s

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Kenneth L. Brennan (Vice-Chair) Boscov’s

Richard Kenny (Immediate Past Chairman) Delaware Supermarkets

Albert R. Morris A.R. Morris Jewelers

Left to Right: Matt Kenny, Kathy Singer, Steve Huff, Bernie Kenny, Bob Singer, Melissa Huff and Chris Kenny

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Michael Uffner AutoTeam Delaware

Roberta Wuttke Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory

Januar y / Febr uar y 2010 D e l a w a r e B u s i n e s s 11/18/09 10:34 AM 3/3/10 12:09 PM

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BeeBe Medical center delivers For delaware What began in 1916 as a four-room hospital in Lewes has become southern Delaware’s leader in advanced healthcare. The unyielding efforts of our staff, physicians, volunteers, and friends have brought awards and innovation for the people of Delaware.

BeeBe delivers QUalitY • Rated among Top 5% in the nation and Best on Delmarva in Orthopaedics by HealthGrades® • Commission on Cancer 2008 Outstanding Achievement Award for Excellence • First hospital to earn the W. L. Gore Delaware Quality Award for Excellence • Golden Apple Award for Quality Leadership

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InsIst on qualIty. InsIst on BeeBe. Januar y / Febr uar y 2010 D e l a w a r e B u s i n e s s

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The Hon. Pete du Pont was the keynote speaker at the Marvin S. Gilman Superstars in Business awards luncheon. Du Pont spoke about the state and national economy, and the impact it has on business and citizens in Delaware. Photo by Dick Dubroff

Small Business Plays Big Role

By Sharon Reardon

T

he Small Business Alliance of the State Chamber exists to serve the needs of Delaware’s small business employers and employees. Its position in the Chamber mirrors the role small businesses play in our state.

Small businesses are, in fact, the majority of Delaware’s employers. According to the 2009-10 U.S. SBA Small Business Resource, small businesses make up 92.9 percent of all Delaware employers and create more than 50 percent of the American non-farm private gross domestic product. They also comprise the majority of the membership of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce.

It’s no surprise then, the amount of effort and activity paid by the State Chamber to this critically important segment of our membership. This year, we were pleased to find the attention to be even more of a two-way street. Our members signaled that in every aspect of their business, they were looking for their return on investment. And we responded by providing more ways to embrace their Chamber membership and derive certain value.

New Benefits

Every event, workshop, magazine issue, committee meeting and e-newsletter is a benefit of membership, but this year the

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State Chamber negotiated the delivery of premium, exclusive benefits and services for our members, with the small business group in mind.

The launch of the DSCC Health Plan, underwritten by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Delaware, was a notable achievement on behalf of small business employers who want to provide quality, affordable health coverage for their employees while helping to drive the increasing cost of health care down.

From discounted cell phones to savings on office supplies and more, the State Chamber helps our members save money on quality products and services. Our renewed emphasis on member benefits reaped increased rewards and savings for our members. A new Benefits e-News delivers information on preferred provider benefits and the expanded Memberto-Member Discount Directory. To read more about benefits, turn to page 78.

New Partnerships

Small business resources are plentiful in Delaware. It can sometimes be challenging, however, to identify the right resource for the expertise needed. The Small Business Alliance teams up with the existing small business support organizations – the Delaware district of the U.S. Small Business

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Adminstration, the Small Business Development Center, and the Delaware Economic Development Office’s Entrepreneurial and Small Business Development Center among many others – and we advise members where to access the specific support they need.

In addition, a new valuable ally of small business was formed in Legislative Hall. State Representatives Bryon Short (D) and Daniel Short (R) are the co-chairmen of the Small Business Caucus. The Caucus was formed specifically to address the needs and issues of small businesses and the State Chamber’s Small Business Alliance stays in close contact with these valuable small business advocates.

Another successful partnership was formed this year when the State Chamber and the Better Business Bureau collaborated on the largest business networking event of the year at the Chase Center on the Riverfront. The introduction of our memberships created some valuable new business opportunities and a model for similar future events.

Small Business Events

From the annual Marvin S. Gilman Superstars in Business Awards luncheon in the Hotel du Pont’s Gold Ballroom to a jam-packed Bethany Blues evening mixer in Lewes to a getdown-to-business public speaking workshop in Dover, the Small Business Alliance hosted a multitude of events and workshops.

Committee meetings offer connections to new contacts and interests – the Women in Business Committee has become a

From discounted cell phones to savings on office supplies and more, the State Chamber helps our members save money on quality products and services. legion of influence with an impressive roster of women leaders as guest speakers. The Education and Development, Benefits and Services, and Legislative Committees offer additional opportunities to get connected.

For members who find it difficult to leave the office, the Alliance offers a full calendar of Webinars on business topics in demand. Savvy managers get maximum value by gathering staff around one computer to learn as a group.

Small Business Alliance events, workshops, Webinars and special business events are taking place year round. Get your return on your membership investment by taking part in all that the Chamber offers. n For more information about the Small Business Alliance, call Sharon Reardon at (302) 576-6578 or e-mail sreardon@dscc.com.

2009 Small Business Alliance Board of Managers

Donald T. Fulton (Co-chair) George J. Weiner Associates

William B. Parks (Co-chair) Colonial Parking

Timothy U. Boulden Boulden, Inc.

Nash M. Childs Bancroft Construction Company

Pam Cornforth Ronald McDonald House of Delaware

Cynthia Dwyer Joseph Farley, Jr. Wellness Community- Farley Printing Delaware Company

G. Kevin Fasic Law Offices of G. Kevin Fasic

Janice Giannini Paradigm Associates, LLC

John E. Healy III Healy Long & Jevin, Inc.

Stephan Lehm VanDemark & Lynch, Inc.

Chad Moore The Bellmoor Inn & Spa

James D. Randall Liberty Staffing Services

Michael Reath Delmarva Broadcasting Company

Scott Thomas Southern Delaware Tourism

William F. Ward, Jr. Bill Ward, Inc.

sharon rearon executive director

Richard D. Rowland Rowland, Johnson & Company, P.A.

Dennis M. Salter Summit Realty Advisors, LLC

Priscilla Turgon Professional Staffing

2009 Small Business Alliance Senior Advisory Council

Martha Gilman Gilman Development Company

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William Major Wilmington Trust Company

James B. O’Neill, Ph.D. William B. Robinson, University of Jr. Delaware George & Lynch, Inc.

William M. Topkis Topkis Financial Advisors, LLC

Michael S. Uffner AutoTeam Delaware

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Save the Date Monday, May 3, 2010 Superstars in Education Awards Dinner

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Chase Center on the Riverfront 4:45 p.m. Registration 6:00 p.m. Dinner Program immediately following

2010 Sponsors LEADERSHIP Agilent Technologies AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP

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Sponsorship opportunities available. Contact Janine Sorbello at (302) 576-6575 or e-mail jsorbello@dscc.com for more information.

When business leaders work hand in hand with educators to ensure that today’s students are being prepared for the business needs of tomorrow – that is truly a partnership that strengthens Delaware’s economic future.

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Fisker Automotive Inc.’s first venture, the Karma, will begin production in the summer of 2010 in Finland with 65 percent of its parts coming from the U.S. Photo provided by Fisker Automotive, Inc.

Delaware Manufacturing

By Jim Wolfe

M

anufacturing in Delaware has faced some serious challenges over the past few years. Manufacturing sector jobs shrunk by 12 percent from September 2008 to September 2009. The first blow came with the closing of the Chrysler plant in Newark at the end of 2008 followed by the shuttering of Wilmington’s General Motors (GM) Boxwood Road plant in July. Many workers whose families have been employed in the auto industry for several generations find themselves in uncharted territory. The area suffered another blow in late November when Valero announced it was permanently closing its Delaware City Refinery, eliminating more than 500 jobs. The impact has hit hard as displaced workers find themselves in a depressed job market and a challenging economy.

But there is a bright spot for Delaware’s Manufacturing sector.

Fisker Automotive, Inc. signed a letter of intent to purchase the GM plant and expects to invest $175 million over the next three years to retool the facility. On October 27, 2009, Vice President Joe Biden, Delaware’s Congressional delegation, Governor Jack Markell, Delaware Economic Development Office Director Alan Levin, Delaware business leaders, and former autoworkers were

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on hand to welcome Fisker Automotive, Inc. to Delaware.

The venture was made possible when the California-based luxury automaker received a Department of Energy loan of $528.7 million to build plug-in hybrids. Of this, $359 million will be poured into Project NINA (named after the Christopher Columbus ship) scheduled to be built in Delaware. The plug-in hybrid family sedan has yet to be publicly unveiled; it will carry a price tag of $47,400 with a $7,500 federal tax credit. Fisker’s first venture, the sleek high-end Karma sedan, which sells for $87,900, is expected to roll off the production line in the summer of 2010. The Karma is built in Finland with 65 percent of its parts coming from the U.S. With the Delaware economy hitting bottom, the state facing high unemployment rates, even the gloomiest manufacturing outlook has found a hopeful prospect with the production of Project NINA slated to begin in 2012. Production levels are anticipated to reach 75,000 to 100,000 vehicles per year by 2014.

This will bring jobs to Delaware. Fisker chose the GM Plant because it is strategically located near rail and shipping lines, there is a skilled labor force, and the plant has the capacity to

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2009 Delaware Manufacturing Association Board of Managers

Robert F. Dolan (Chair) General Motors Corporation

Mike Crawford (Co-Vice Chair) AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP

Scott Welch (Co-Vice Chair) Mohawk Electrical Systems, Inc.

Charlie Copeland Associates Graphic Services

John J. Czerwinski Plumbers & Pipefitters Local Union #74

Rick Deadwyler DuPont Company

Joseph P. Farley, Jr. Farley Printing Company, Inc.

Tom Inagaki W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc.

Gary Knight INVISTA

Mitch Magee PPG Industries, Inc.

Rudy Merstetter Ciba Specialty Products

John Pickering Valero

reach these production levels. The project is estimated to create 2,000 factory jobs in Delaware over the next five years, but the impact goes far beyond that. An additional 3,000 supply chain jobs will be created across the U.S., countless local businesses will feel the impact on the consumer side, and Delaware and New Castle County will benefit from the tax revenue.

There are other bright spots in the manufacturing sector as well. In April, Newport manufacturer Ciba Corporation joined forces with BASF Corporation and the Newark-based science center, Isogen, LLC, officially opened its doors, providing sterile processing and laboratory testing of injected pharmaceuticals.

W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc. received approval in November from New Castle County Council to develop 148 acres in Glasgow for office and manufacturing space. And Bridgeville’s Miller Metal Fabrication Inc. has improved efficiency by implementing Lean Manufacturing techniques.

The Spring Legislative Brunch and Manufacturing Conference with keynote speaker Governor Jack Markell was held April 1 at Dover Downs Conference Center. The focus of the popular event was on green manufacturing. The governor’s office has encouraged the growth of green manufacturing to help the stagnating sector find new levels of prosperity and with Fisker, it has found its first test. n For more information about the AM Delaware SD-816 Meeting 11/19/09 11:05 Page 1Manufacturing Association, call (302) 655-7221.

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FAIR SHARE CITY OF WILMINGTON FINANCE DEPARTMENT 2009-2010

O

ver the past three years, the City of Wilmington has taken steps to ensure that every company and individual subject to the City’s wage tax and licensing requirements, pays their fair share. This is being accomplished through auditing and other various revenue initiatives. As new laws are passed and new initiatives occur, the city wants to communicate these changes to it’s taxpayers so everyone has the information that is needed to keep them compliant and in good standing with the city.

What has changed in Tax Year 2010?

How can I contact the City with questions?

• Ordinance no. 09-062 was recently passed requiring that all General Contractors/Construction Managers are responsible for ensuring that all of their primary subcontractors maintain an active, current City of Wilmington business license at all times relevant to the said construction project.

• Send your question by email to citytaxquestions@wilmington de.gov.

• You may call Monday through Friday, from the hours of 9:00am to 5:00pm at 302-576-2415 or 302-576-2418.

In May of 2009, ordinance 09012 was passed increasing the head tax rate from the current level of $10 per employee, per month, less a five (5) person per month exemption, to $15 per employee, per month, less a five (5) person per month exemption.

• You may visit our offices on the days and time listed above • For purposes of this ordi- at 800 N. French St., 6th Floor. nance, subcontractors who hire other subcontractors will • You may submit a written be deemed as being General question to the above address.

Contractors and will inherit the responsibilities required by ordinance 09-062.

How will I learn of any

• The Department of Finance new changes? will ensure that all required taxes • The city will send written are paid. communication to those directly • A roster card will be required affected by any new laws or to be kept on site for inspecchanges. tion by city inspectors or on file with the City’s Department of Fi- • You may also utilize the above nance. contact information.

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DPPI Strengthens Delaware

R

eform of public schools remained a principal focus for the Delaware Public Policy Institute in 2009, but the institute also initiated or helped to conduct a wide range of other endeavors on permitting and strengthening partnerships among the business and education community.

Direct, Ellen Kullman of DuPont, and Terri Kelly of W.L. Gore.

Jared Bernstein, chief economist to Vice President Joe Biden, delivered the keynote address. The conference spanned a day and a half, and on the second day, three workshops were held to delve into specific ways to grow the economy.

Non-profits and Philanthropy

Vision 2015

DPPI helped to form an ad hoc study group called the Philanthropy Forum in 2008. Last year, the group hired Mary Kress Littlepage to conduct a study of Delaware’s non-profits, individual donors and grant making organizations. In December 2009, the 59-page report entitled “Philanthropy in the First State” was released. The report provided the basis for an upcoming Creating Knowledge-Based Partnership series: “The Future of Non-profits in Delaware” to be held March 22 to 23, 2010.

DPPI’s Executive Director John Taylor serves as a member of the Vision 2015 Implementation Team, the seven-member group that oversees the Vision Network of Schools that are putting into practice the basic Vision 2015 principles. This team develops the network’s budget and provides management oversight.

In related work, DPPI joined other organizations to smooth the path for Teach for America (TFA) to come to Delaware. State law prohibited students without full qualifications to teach in regular public schools or in charter schools. TFA’s approach is to provide intensive pedagogical training in the summer before the new

Creating Knowledge-Based Partnerships

Approximately 1,000 people attended the three “Creating Knowledge-Based Partnerships” conference series developed in 2009 by the University of Delaware and DPPI. In March, the conference focused on health issues and provided the setting for announcing the new science alliance that includes Jefferson University Medical School, the Nemours Foundation and its pediatric hospital, Christiana Care and the University of Delaware. In October, the conference focused on the progress of Vision 2015 and Delaware’s efforts to secure Race to the Top funding with U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan as the featured speaker. To read more about this conference, turn to page 16.

In November, the conference focused on “Creating New Economies for Delaware, the Region and the Nation.” State Chamber President and CEO Jim Wolfe and former DSCC Chairman and now Delaware Economic Development Office Director Alan Levin were among those who participated. Others included Gov. Jack Markell, U.S. Sens. Tom Carper and Ted Kaufman and U.S. Rep. Mike Castle. Among the business leaders participating were Robert Harra of Wilmington Trust, Arkadi Kuhlmann of ING

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from left: New Castle County Executive Chris Coons, Nicole Majewski, policy director for New Castle County, and Rich Heffron of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce, joined a panel on streamlining the permitting process on development, brought together by the Delaware Public Policy Institute in September.

Photo by Katie Grasso

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college graduates enter the classroom and to provide ongoing support for them during their two-year commitment. Now state law permits this approach and also makes it possible for teacher residency programs to be developed.

From mid-June through mid-August, DPPI participated in Delaware’s Education Secretary Lillian Lowery’s Innovative DPPI is involved in the following projects:

• Conducting a major study of permitting process difficulties involving the State of Delaware and New Castle County; • Helping to organize a series of conferences, Creating Knowledge-Based Partnerships, with the University of Delaware; • The unveiling of an enhanced version of “How Delaware Compares” after an eight-year absence; • Helping with the release of a report on non-profits and those who support them called “Philanthropy in the First State;” • Issuing a report on Delaware’s revenue sources and how they compare with the national average and surrounding states; • Working with the Department of Education and Education Secretary Lillian Lowery to develop a strategic plan for public education in the state; • Assisting the Rodel Charitable Foundation of Delaware and the Department of Education to seek legislative action to permit

Action Team’s efforts to develop a strategic plan for public education. All of the subcommittees were focused on the critical needs of public schools and were keenly aware of developing plans that would mesh with the federal Race to the Top program that was announced by Secretary Duncan. Secretary Lowery presented Gov. Jack Markell with her plan in September 2009 and Markell released his plan in December.

Permitting Process

Gov. Markell and New Castle County Executive Chris Coons asked DPPI to explore new ways of streamlining the permitting process for development. In May, DPPI hired the Consensus Building Institute (CBI) of Cambridge, Mass. to conduct a study and to convene a two-day dialogue on this topic. The months of investigation and dialogue resulted in the release of a major report in December titled, “A Dialogue on Application and Permitting Process for Land Use Development in New Castle County Delaware.” The report made 12 recommendations including that the governments establish clear, measurable review times, increase use of subregional planning and create an ombudsman role.

More than 50 people participated in the interviews and the two-day dialogue. The project was led by Patrick Field, managing director of CBI who also worked with DPPI three years ago when it studied the problems of funding the infrastructure of clean water and waste water in Delaware.

Teach for America to operate in Delaware; • Helping to organize a major conference on child poverty in Delaware with “Kids Count in Delaware.”

How Delaware Compares

After an eight-year absence, DPPI released an update of “How Delaware Compares” which illustrates how the state

2009 Delaware Public Policy Institute Board of Directors

Marvin N. Schoenhals (Chair) WSFS Bank

Dr. Tony Allen Bank of America

O. Francis Biondi, Esquire Morris, Nichols, Arsht & Tunnell

Dr. Thomas M. Connelly, Jr. DuPont Company

Gov. Pierre S. du Pont IV Richards, Layton & Finger

Dr. Patrick Harker University of Delaware

Dr. Paul Herdman Rodel Foundation Delaware

Dr. Robert J. Laskowski Christiana Care Health System

Robert W. Perkins AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals

Dr. Daniel Rich University of Delaware

Gary Stockbridge Delmarva Power

Richelle Vible Catholic Charities

William T. Wood, Jr. Wood & Associates

john taylor executive director

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ranks against other states in 13 different categories including taxation, transportation and education. This new version is not just a compendium of numbers; each category is enhanced with essays written by University of Delaware experts in the various fields.

The information is Web-based and will be made publicly available.

Child Poverty in Delaware

Taylor, a member of the Kids Count in Delaware board, helped to organize a day-long conference on child poverty in Delaware that was attended by approximately 600 people. There were both national and local speakers and several workshops. Taylor also wrote an op-ed for the News Journal explaining why business has a strong interest in eliminating poverty, particularly child poverty: it is not conducive to a good business atmosphere.

Delaware Revenue Study

In the spring of 2009, DPPI examined how Delaware generates revenue and to explore what revenue sources are used by other states that might be considered by Delaware should current revenue practices falter. The study was funded by a grant from the Rodel Charitable Foundation of Delaware. It began in late October and is not complete as of press time. n To learn more about the Delaware Public Policy Institute, contact John Taylor at (302) 576-6590 or jtaylor@dscc.com.

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m e mb a becrdsehfg ip

The Delaware State Chamber of Commerce welcomed new member Hibachi Sushi & Supreme Buffet to the state at their ribbon cutting in December 2009. from left: Arlene Simon, DSCC account representative, Gov. Jack Markell, Andy Yang, owner of Hibachi Sushi & Supreme Buffet, Wilmington Mayor James Baker, and Bill Stephano, DSCC director of sales, help cut the ribbon. Photo by Katie Grasso

A Valuable Membership

By Bill Stephano

B

usinesses today are evaluating their budgets and looking to slash costs, which is why the State Chamber’s membership department is working hard every day to prove that a Chamber membership is a valuable investment. From the Chamber’s lead groups to networking events, State Chamber members successfully obtain new leads and uncover new business opportunities.

Business leaders are looking for ways to leverage their membership at the Chamber to gain a competitive advantage. The opportunity to work with new and existing members and assist them in meeting their goals is a challenge we take very seriously.

“Being an active member of the DSCC has allowed me to interact with many other business professionals through networking events and lead groups,” says Frank Dowling of Primerica. “The relationships I’ve built have been invaluable in growing my business.”

Jack Coleman of Maintenance Engineering echoes this statement, “The Chamber staff has truly helped me get connected with more business people and expand my opportunities to a far

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greater extent than I could have on my own,” Coleman says. “My dues paid and time spent attending events are the best investment I’ve made in my business.”

Connecting to Members

The Ambassador Committee is a specifically chosen group of volunteers that assists in increasing membership and retention, and acts as a liaison between the State Chamber staff and the membership at large. The committee originally began in New Castle County, but continues to expand. The Sussex County Ambassador Committee was launched in 2009 and the membership department is anticipating the creation of a Kent County Ambassador Committee in 2010. The Ambassador Committee program continues to be a great way to monitor the pulse of the Chamber’s membership.

The New Member Acquisition Plan (NMAP) project has made significant headway since the pilot phase in June 2009.

During that time we have created the telemarketing script, escalating voicemail message scripting and an integrated

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ab m ec mb d eefg rship

performance and our overall goal for 2010 is to keep the trend line going.

New Member Sales Statistics with Exponential Trendlines (08vs.09)

YTD 2008 P rojected Q4 2009 Actua l YTD 2009 E xpon. (YTD 2008) E xpon. (Actua l YTD 2009)

Jan

from left:

Tom Corcoran of Corcoran & Associates, P.A. and Angel Vega of AT&T compare iPhones at the Annual Joint Tabletop Networking Mixer at the Chase Center on the Riverfront. This B-to-B event brought together more than 600 members. Photo by Dick Dubroff

e-mail/phone process to increase the effectiveness of dials/ contacts per day. After the first few months the NMAP has a run rate of six to eight new members per month. Examining the initial results, the team has committed to increase the run rate to average between 12 to 15 new members per month that will augment our current sales team’s efforts. From June through September 2009, the NMAP program has made 4,970 calls, spoken to the correct contact 660 times and has 144 pipeline opportunities.

Feb

Ma r

Apr

Ma y J un

J ul

Aug S ep

Oct

Nov Dec

With the introduction and projected success of the NMAP, the sales department has adopted an aggressive retention program that dedicates 70 percent of the State Chamber’s account executives’ time for renewals. We are realizing similar trending in membership renewal status as compared to the exit percentage’s of 2008. n To learn more about your Chamber membership, call Bill Stephano at (302) 576-6574 or e-mail bstephano@dscc.com.

Hear what other members are saying about their membership with the State Chamber:

“Being a member of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce has been an incredible opportunity to connect with insightful business leaders and valuable resources to be more effective in my

Looking Ahead

The membership department continues to monitor and track its effectiveness as a sales team. One way we do this is to monitor how our new members come to join the State Chamber. Year-todate results for 2009 are presented below. Our program goal is to achieve a 40/40/20 ratio of prospect/referral/call-in for 2010.

business. It is inspiring to have people who want you to succeed!”

Elizabeth Roche, Mixed Greens, LLC “The DSCC serves as a highly visible networking canvas upon which we are able to artfully and effectively portray the mosaic of our different businesses to the discerning eye of the public.”

Alan Spiro, Clarion Belle Hotel

2009 New Member Source Data - YTD

“In tough economic times it is important to have solid partnerships to help you through the storm. I can’t think of a better partnership Pros pects 36%

then the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce.”

Dave Tiberi, TNT Video “My organization held a grand opening party in Jan 2009. I was

Referral 36%

grateful to the chamber for their assistance in getting the word out to their members about the event. Along with the chamber and Call in 28%

the hotels ownership, we had more than 150 guests at the grand opening event. I have met some wonderful contacts in our business community by attending chamber mixers and other events. These contacts have needed meeting space, overnight accommodations,

In forecasting our dues-based revenue for 2010, we look at statistical trends over the past few years and overlay projections of the current economy to build the schedule. The exponential timeline indicates we are trending upward over 2008

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and catering. I have benefited from their services as well, from printing to assistance in doing presentations.”

Ann Brown, Hilton Garden Inn

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Newsmakers

What does AstraZeneca stand for?

My name is Peggy, and I’m a cancer survivor.

AstraZeneca has given me a positive lease on life, not only through the medicine they make but also the programs they support.

Healthy communities mean healthy people. That’s why AstraZeneca is providing $10 million to support the American Cancer Society Patient Navigator Program nationwide. This program connects people with cancer to personal advocates who guide them through challenges they may face following a cancer diagnosis. We also provided $9 million to support the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge® facilities in Boston and Philadelphia, which offer a free “home away from home” for cancer patients and their families who need to travel for treatment.

Supporting communities.

That’s what we stand for.

www.AZandMe.com

©AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP. All rights reserved.

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Newsmakers

Newsmakers

Compiled by Kelly Cofrancisco & Katie Grasso

Food Bank Graduates Culinary Students The Culinary School at the Food Bank of Delaware graduated 11 students in October 2009. The students have spent the past 12 weeks developing their culinary arts skills with Chef Instructor Tim Hunter.

This session’s class received 10 weeks of hands-on training in basic and high-end kitchen skills, safe food handling and life skills. The training culminated with a two-week paid internship. Students spent time interning at Sodexho corporate cafeterias and Iron Hill Brewery.

Ronald McDonald House Holds Gala Ronald McDonald House of Delaware held its Second Annual Dinner Gala.

The Gala raised more than $12,000 to help defray the costs of housing families of seriously or chronically ill or injured children seeking specialized medical treatments at nearby hospitals. Jimmy Murray, one of the founders of the first Ronald McDonald House in Philadelphia and a former Philadelphia Eagles general manager, shared the story of the founding of the first Ronald McDonald House and the growth of the organization to 288 Ronald McDonald Houses over the past 35 years.

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Element Design Earns LEED Award Element Design Group in Lewes designed a home that was recently awarded LEED Gold certification by the U.S. Green Building Council.

Eleven Southwood Shores in the Glade was given the award for achievement in green homebuilding and design.

This is the first LEED home in Rehoboth Beach, and it is also the highest-rated, single-family LEED home in Delaware.

LEED for Homes is a green home certification system for assuring homes are designed and built to be energy and resource efficient and healthy for occupants. LEED certified homes complete a technically rigorous process that includes a home energy rating and onsite inspections to verify that the home is built to be energy and water efficient, environmentally sound, and a healthier place to live. Green homes have substantially lower utility bills and may qualify for advantageous financing, lower insurance rates and government incentives.

SBA Offers Training for Vets The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) entered a three-year agreement to expand and deliver entrepreneurship training for service-disabled veterans of the wars in Iraq and

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The Mirenda Center for Sport, Spirituality and Character Development at Neumann University was designed by Tevebaugh Associates. Photo provided by Tevebaugh Associates, Architects and Planners

New Facility Opens at Neumann University The Mirenda Center for Sport, Spirituality and Character Development has opened at Neumann University’s Aston, Pa. campus. Named in recognition of President Rosalie M. Mirenda, the 72,000-square-foot building provides space for a variety of sports, community recreation, dance and fitness studios and traditional athletic training and administrative offices. The center emerges as a direct embodiment of the nationally and internationally recognized research and practice of the Institute for Sport, Spirituality and Character Development. The building’s unique visual style presents messages of sportsmanship, camaraderie and ethics, as well as compelling visual depictions of the spirituality inherent in sports.

Designed by Tevebaugh Associates, Architects & Planners, with offices in Wilmington, Del. and Philadelphia, Pa., the building is a candidate for LEED Silver Certification.

Afghanistan. The agreement with SBA’s Office of Veterans Business Development will sup-

port the expansion of the yearlong Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans with Dis-

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Newsmakers

abilities (EBV). The expansion of this innovative management training and mentorship program will maximize small business programs for veterans, service-disabled veterans, reservecomponent members, and their dependents or survivors. Additionally, SBA launched a new online contracting tutorial

on www.sba.gov, as part of its ongoing efforts to expand services to veterans and service-disabled veterans. Veterans and military spouses who own small businesses can utilize this free online course to learn how to identify and take advantage of federal contracting opportunities.

Newsbites n Delaware Hospice welcomed three new members to its Board of Trustees: Colm F. Connolly, JD, a partner at Morgan Lewis & Bockius, Dana L. Newswanger, DO, boardcertified family physician at Christiana Care Health System and Mindi Moore Tunnell, BA, JD, director of marketing for Tunnell Companies, LP. Colm F. Connolly

n Henry (“Hank”) E. Gallagher, Jr of Connolly Bove Lodge & Hutz LLP was inducted as a Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America at the Fall Conference in October. n Maverick Network Solutions Inc., a provider of debit payment solutions, has appointed Philip A. Valvardi, III as chief executive officer. Valvardi is the former president of the MAC Network.

Mindi Moore Tunnell

n The Web-based Simon & Co., www.simonandco.com, by Jennifer Simon, specializes in exclusively designed towers and gift baskets ideal for corporate gifting, or for the individual. The food-themed gifts include picks from artisan cheeses to the finest handmade chocolates and delicious sweets and savory snacks from every corner of the Jennifer Simon globe. Simon & Co. specializes in finding the most unique foods and food purveyors around the world, baby gifts, spa gifts for men and women, and fun gifts for the cat or dog in your life. Local delivery is available.

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Archer Group Named to Philadelphia 100 The Archer Group, the Wilmington-based interactive marketing firm, earned recognition this month as a member of the 2009 “Philadelphia 100,” an annual program tracking the fastestgrowing privately held companies in the Greater Philadelphia area. Sponsored by the Entrepreneurs’ Forum of Greater Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Business Journal and the Wharton Small Business Development Center, the project strives to promote the economic vitality of the Greater Philadelphia region and to recognize the contributions of these entrepreneurial businesses to the region’s economy. With a growth rate of 190.2 percent from 2006 to 2008, the Archer Group ranked 36th among the companies honored. In that period, its work force more than doubled — from 18 employees to 38.

The Archer Group was one of four Delaware companies listed in the Philadelphia 100.

“We’re proud to be recognized as one of the Philadelphia 100, and we look forward to continuing growth,” said Archer Group CEO and co-founder Lee Mikles, who moved the business into larger quarters in Wilmington’s Lower Market (LOMA) Design District in late 2007.

Friends of Furness Awarded Exhibit Grants The Friends of Furness Railroad District (FFRD), will be installing a permanent exhibit in the Amtrak Station that will

showcase the history of railroad development in Wilmington. When completed, the museum quality exhibit will be seen by the thousands of passengers and visitors that travel through the busy station every year. The exhibit is made possible by grants received from the Delaware Humanities Forum and the North American Railroad Foundation and will feature the period of growth between 1880 and 1910 when the Pennsylvania Railroad elevated four miles of tracks through the City and built the current Amtrak Station and the adjacent office building. “The exhibit will tell an exciting story of the fantastic amount of industrial and human energy that went into the development of our national railroads at the turn of the century,” said FFRD founder and President Jim Tevebaugh. The exhibit opening will coincide with the completion of the station renovation scheduled for the Spring 2011.

Catholic Charities Coat Drive Catholic Charities is collecting new and gently used coats and blankets at each of its office locations throughout January. The drive is prompted by the growth the agency is seeing in requests for assistance during these harsh economic times.

Coats, blankets, and other clothing items should be in good condition and ready to use.

Tax receipts are available for donations. For more information on where donors can bring their coats and blankets, go to www.cdow.org.

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Newsmakers

Wesley College Named Among Best Wesley College earned a spot among the “Best Baccalaureate Colleges” in the North Region for the 2010 edition of America’s Best Colleges by U.S. News Media Group. The annual rankings, which include more than 1,400 schools nationwide, were made available in the September issue of U.S. News & World Report and online at http://www.usnews.com/colleges. Over the past ten years, Wesley has been consistently ranked among the top for baccalaureate colleges.

The U.S. News & World Report survey’s “baccalaureate colleges” category includes 319 schools within four geographic regions (North, South, Midwest and West). It encom-

passes institutions focusing on undergraduate education and offering a range of degree programs in the liberal arts and in professional fields such as business, nursing and education. The U.S. News college rankings group schools based on categories created by The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.

The 2010 America’s Best Colleges includes rankings for the Best National Universities, Best Liberal Arts Colleges, Best Historically Black Colleges, Best Colleges for Financial Aid, A+ Schools for B Students and Up-and-Coming Schools. This year, the ranking categories were expanded to include Best Colleges for Undergraduate Teaching.

The 2010 America’s Best Col-

See. Learn. Share. Network. Celebrate.

Tevebaugh Associates Wins Design Competition Widener University has awarded the design of a new academic building to Tevebaugh Associates, Architects and Planners with offices in Wilmington and Philadelphia. The new building, which will house the university’s expanded nursing school, two leadership instuitions, meeting and student academic space, will occupy a strategic location on the urban campus. Situated between the original 1860 campus and the expanded newer campus, the building will be highly visible at the main entrance to the University. The limestone-clad building is being designed as a green or sustainable building under the guidelines of the USGBC leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, LEED standards. Occupancy of the new

Save the Date Monday, May 3, 2010 Superstars in Education Awards Dinner Chase Center on the Riverfront 4:45 p.m. Registration 6:00 p.m. Dinner Program immediately following

building is scheduled for winter semester 2011. Rendering provided

by Tevebaugh Associates, Architects and Planners

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Sponsorship opportunities available.

Contact Janine Sorbello at (302) 576-6575 or jsorbello@dscc.com for more information.

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Newsmakers

leges package provides a thorough examination of how more than 1,400 accredited four-year schools compare on a set of 15 widely accepted indicators of excellence. Key measures of quality are: peer assessment, graduation and retention rates, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources and alumni giving.

Bancroft Receives Award Bancroft Construction Company has been awarded both the 2009 Construction Excellence Award, co-sponsored by the Delaware Contractors Association and the State of Delaware Office of Management and Budget; and the Associated Builders and Contractors Delaware Excellence in Construction Award. Award criteria included design and craftsmanship, excel-

lence in project teamwork, innovation in techniques or materials, meeting the challenges of a difficult job, and safety.

Both awards were received for the AstraZeneca Service Provider Center in Wilmington. Certified LEED Gold by the U.S. Green Building Council, the 3,600-square-foot building incorporates sustainable products and green building concepts within an exceptionally functional building.

Careful and deliberate planning went into things such as site location and roof design in order to minimize the structure’s impact on the surrounding environment. Through the use of water efficient landscaping, dual action flush-ometers, touchless faucets, and waterless urinals, the building uses 30 percent less water than conventional designs.

The building’s thermal envelope, 10kw photovoltaic panel system and ground source heat pump provide increased energy efficiency. In addition, the materials used in construction contain more than 21 percent recycled content, more than 90 percent of construction site debris was recycled or

reused, and more than 26 percent of construction materials were manufactured locally.

Members of the Bancroft project team include Project Manager Rob Jadick, Construction Manager Ben Krapf, Superintendent Dave Fielder, and Project Coordinator Cheryl Fearn. n

Lt. Governor Matt Denn presents a proclamation to Bayhealth Senior V.P. and Chief Nursing Officer Bonnie Perratto. Photo provided by Bayhealth Medical Center

Bayhealth Celebrates Nurses Delaware Lieutenant Governor Matt Denn joined Bayhealth officials in honoring Medical/Surgical Nurses on Med-Surg Nurses Day on Monday. Denn issued a proclamation declaring Med-Surg Nurses Week in Delaware, and acknowledging the nurses’ lifesaving work.

Bayhealth President & CEO Terry Murphy, applauded the Med-Surg nurses for their clinical excellence and their key role in delivering outstanding patient care.

“These nurses sacrifice each day to save lives and help patients during their most difficult hour. For that, we are grateful,” said Murphy.

“At Bayhealth, more than 20 percent of the nurses are serving patients in the Med-Surg Unit. Even if you begin your hospital stay in another unit, there’s a good chance you will receive care from a Med-Surg nurse at some point later during your hospitalization,” said Bayhealth Medical-Surgical Nurse Manager Kathleen Boyer, RN, BSN. Boyer notes that Med-Surg nurses are highly trained in a wide variety of areas since the patients they care for may suffer from a diverse range of different illnesses.

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STATE

DAISEY INSURANCE INC.

Middletown, DE 19709

Newark, DE 19711

(302) 898-1563

Supplemental insurance marketed through business.

Insurance agent.

(302) 504-4261

Mr. Harry C. Daisey

Fax: (888) 330-8395

Fax: (302) 391-0802

8959 Fruitland Avenue

www.delaware-guavahomecare.com

www.matricellc.com

HIBACHI SUSHI & SUPREME BUFFET

MILLIGAN & COMPANY, LLC

Asian restaurant.

Mr. Michael Riesenberger

Bridgeville, DE 19933

11 Cardiff Court East

(302) 337-9400

Newark, DE 19711

Fax: (302) 337-9404

(302) 893-1422

www.daiseyinsurance.com

AMERIPRISE FINANCIAL

DELAWARE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

429 South Walnut Street

Full service consulting and certified public accounting firm.

Wilmington, DE 19801

Electric distribution company with more than 75,000 member/owners in Kent and Sussex counties.

Mr. Calvin Christopher

(302) 658-8580

1201 N. Orange Street

Fax: (302) 658-8581

Suite 764

Financial planning, small business retirement plans, and investment management.

Mr. Stephen Rifici 200 Bellevue Parkway, Suite 250 Wilmington, DE 19809 (302) 798-3199 Fax: (302) 798-3166 www.ameriprise.com

Mr. Andy Yang

(302) 884-6770

P.O. Box 600

Loan guarantee and investments.

www.MilliganCPA.com

Greenwood, DE 19950

Ms. Maria Graca Alves

(302) 349-9090

1521 Concord Pike

Fax: (302) 349-4840

Brandywine Plaza,

www.delaware.coop

Suite 301

14198 Sussex Highway

B-FIT ENTERPRISES, INC.

Personal training salon with one-on-one fitness.

Mr. Marcellus V. Beasley 35 Salem Church Road, Suite 23-26 Newark, DE 19713 (302) 292-1785 www.bfitenterprises.com CONTRACT ENVIRONMENTS, INC.

A woman-owned business that provides professional interior design services for corporate, commercial and health care clients. Also provides facility management and turnkey furniture services.

Wilmington, DE 19801 JP INTERNATIONAL HOLDING

Mr. Robert Book

Wilmington, DE 19803 DELMARVA INSURANCE SOLUTIONS, LLC

Insurance broker specializing in health, life, dental, short and long term disability, and workers’ compensation insurance.

(888) 943-7770 www.jpiholding.com LAW OFFICE OF PAUL WERNLE, JR.

Mr. Irvin Chewning, Jr.

Law office specializing in workers compensation and personal injury cases.

8827 Gumboro Road

Mr. Paul Wernle, Jr.

Pittsville, MD 21850

92 Reads Way,

(410) 835-8805

Suite 106

Fax: (410) 835-3368

New Castle, DE 19720 (302) 221-3340

Fax: (215) 496-0980

RARTECH, INC.

Software consulting services.

Mr. Ravi Pottapinjara 113 Berwyck Ct. Newark, DE 19702 (302) 559-7986 Fax: (302) 689-4462 www.rartechinc.com RUDY MARINE

New and used boat dealer.

Mr. Thomas W. Rudloff 411 S. Maryland Avenue Wilmington, DE 19804 (302) 999-8735 Fax: (302) 892-9078

GUAVA SENIOR HOME HEALTHCARE

Fax: (302) 221-3343

www.RUDYMARINE.com

MATRICE CONSULTING, LLC

SENTRYLIGHT, INC.

(302) 658-0668

A non-medical, medical, and staffing business that provides health care services from pediatrics to geriatrics. The services are available for in-home, assisted living, nursing home and hospitals.

Fax: (302) 658-5012

Ms. Jacqueline J. Lieske

Mr. Mark Pescatrice

(866) 494-4431

www.contractenvironments.net

53 Meadow Drive

6 Shenandoah Drive

www.SentryLight.com

Ms. Beverly J. Thomes 19B Trolley Square Wilmington, DE 19806

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NE W S

AFLAC INSURANCE-NEWARK

C H A M B ER

Welcome New Members

Providing consulting services for Oracle ERP installations, advisement services, health checks and product evaluations for technology applications.

SentryLight invents, manufactures, markets, and distributes innovative life safety products.

Ms. Kristin Corbett P.O. Box 7308 Newark, DE 19714

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NE W S

U.S. SMALL BUSINESS

ASSOCIATES

ADMINISTRATION -

C H A M B ER

Insurance broker specializing in, auto, life, health, business, homeowners insurance and more.

Delaware district

Ms. Debbie Short

Suite 1120

133 N. Cannon Street

Wilmington, DE 19801

Seaford, DE 19973

(302) 573-6294

(302) 629-0999

Fax: (302) 573-6060

Fax: (302) 629-6833

www.sba.gov

SOUND-N-SECURE, INC.

WYSHOCK &

Sales, service, installation, and integration of security, CCTV, access control, sound, and A/V systems.

ASSOCIATES INC.

STATE

SHORT INSURANCE

Commercial Brokerage and Financing Services Construction Management and General Contracting Residential and Commercial Management and Maintenance Concierge Residential Real Estate Services, Homes & Land

10 Corporate Circle, Suite 100 New Castle, DE 19720 888.322.9502 | 302.322.9500 www.emoryhill.com

Federal agency.

Ms. Jayne Armstrong 1007 N. Orange Street

Ms. Melissa E. Pingue

Broker for group benefits for employers specializing in health, dental, life and disability insurance.

20444 Pingue Drive

Mr. Thomas R. Wyshock

Milford, DE 19963

2702 Capitol Trail, Kirkwood Highway

(302) 424-3670

Newark, DE 19711

Fax: (302) 424-4764 06_176 Sponsor_DE CC www.SoundNSecure.net

(302) 995-6000 11/20/06 8:37 AM Page Fax: (302) 995-6080 n 1

Goldey-Beacom College “Moving Beyond Business As Usual”

AAA is a proud member of the

Delaware State

New Degree Programs, New Pathways to Success!

Chamber of Commerce

MBA Degrees:

Comprehensive Finance Management Human Resource Management Information Technology International Business Management Marketing Management

Master of Management MS in Finance MS in Taxation

Apply Today! www.gbc.edu

4701 Limestone Road · Wilmington, DE 19808 · (302) 225-6248 72

174487 DSCC_JanFeb10.indd 72

AAA. Use it for all it’s worth.® ©2007 AAA Mid-Atlantic

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STATE

Joint Tabletop Networking Mixer

October 13, 2009

October 14, 2009

NE W S

Networking Breakfast

C H A M B ER

State Chamber Scene

Mark Quinlan of Marble Slab Creamery handed out complimentary bowls of ice cream to tabletop mixer attendees Mark and Barbara Carlson of Signs Now. Photo by Dick Dubroff

Leadership Luncheon Attendees enjoyed a buffet and tour of the newly renovated Christiana Mall at a Networking Breakfast. Photo by Katie Grasso

October 15, 2009

Joint Tabletop Networking Mixer October 14, 2009

Teresa Gray and Sharmina Ellis of Goodwill Industries take a break from networking to play the Rock ‘em Sock ‘em Robots Boxing Game. Photo by Dick Dubroff

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Stacey Mobley, a retired DuPont company executive, spoke about his path to success and being resilient in the face of negativity at the leadership luncheon at the DuPont Country Club in Wilmington. Photo by Kelly Cofrancisco

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NE W S C H A M B ER

November 9, 2009

STATE

Legislative Committee Meeting

Mountaire Farms is a leading verticallyintegrated poultry processor, servicing customers from coast to coast and internationally

. . .

Mountaire Farms is committed to: Protecting the environment now and for generations to come Preserving farming and the family farm here on Delmarva

Being a valued member in the communities where we live, work, play and pray

Mountaire Farms P.O. Box 1320 Millsboro, DE 19966 (302) 934-1100 www.mountaire.com

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Delaware Insurance Commissioner Karen Weldin-Stewart addressed the Legislative Committee of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce. Photo by Katie Grasso

November 17, 2009 Networking Breakfast

from left: Aimee Burke of Get Life Coaching and Tarra Ketley and Kate Shanahan of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society chat with Kim Riccio of Cin-Cin Cuisine. The Chamber hosted a networking breakfast at the Clarion Hotel - The Belle, in New Castle. Photo by Katie Grasso

Januar y / Febr uar y 2010    D e l a w a r e B u s i n e s s

3/3/10 12:10 PM

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8201-MKT 12/7/09 5:07:02 PM State COC Annual Report.indd 1

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o fa b ec vd en e fg ts calendar

Delaware State Chamber Calendar of Events January 12, 26 & February 9, 23

January 20 & February 17

NEWARK LEAD GROUP MEETING 8:15 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Location: 5301 Limestone Road, Suite 123, Wilmington Pre-registration required. For more information, contact Chuck James at (302) 576-6562 or cjames@dscc.com.

HEALTH CARE COMMITTEE MEETING 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Location: State Chamber Board Room, 1201 N. Orange Street, Wilmington For more information, contact Katie Grasso at (302) 576-6566 or kgrasso@dscc.com.

January 14, 28 & February 11, 25 DOVER LEAD GROUP MEETING 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Location: Hilton Garden Inn, 1706 N. DuPont Highway, Dover Pre-registration required. For more information, contact Chuck James at (302) 576-6562 or cjames@dscc.com.

January 14 EDUCATION & DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Location: DSCC Chairman’s Room, 1201 N. Orange Street, Wilmington For more information, contact Sharon Reardon at (302) 576-6578 or sreardon@dscc.com.

January 15 & February 5, 19 WILMINGTON LEAD GROUP MEETING 8:15 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Location: State Chamber Board Room, 1201 N. Orange Street, Wilmington Pre-registration required. For more information, contact Arlene Simon at (302) 576-6576 or asimon@dscc.com.

January 15 DSCC ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE MEETING 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Guest Speaker: U.S. Senator Tom Carper Location: University of Delaware’s Arsht Hall, 2600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Wilmington Cost: $20. For more information, call Greg Gross at (302) 576-6568 or ggross@dscc.com.

January 20 & February 3, 17 WEST SUSSEX LEAD GROUP 8:00 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.

Location: Delaware National Bank, 21035 N. DuPont Blvd., Georgetown Pre-registration required. For more information, contact Chuck James at (302) 576-6562 or cjames@dscc.com.

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January 20 & February 17 EMPLOYEE RELATIONS COMMITTEE MEETING 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Location: State Chamber Board Room, 1201 N. Orange Street, Wilmington For more information, contact Greg Gross at (302) 576-6568 or ggross@dscc.com.

January 22 & February 12, 26 WILMINGTON LEAD GROUP MEETING 8:15 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.

Location: State Chamber Board Room, 1201 N. Orange Street, Wilmington Pre-registration required. For more information, contact Chuck James at (302) 576-6562 or cjames@dscc.com.

January 26 NETWORKING BREAKFAST 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.

Location: Urban Cafe, 1201 N. Market Street, Wilmington January 27 BENEFITS & SERVICES COMMITTEE 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Location: State Chamber Chairman’s Room, 1201 N. Orange Street, Wilmington For more information, contact Sharon Reardon at (302) 576-6578 or sreardon@dscc.com.

February 1 DSCC LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE MEETING 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Guest Speaker: TBD Location: State Chamber Board Room, 1201 N. Orange Street, Wilmington For more information contact: Greg Gross at (302) 576-6568 or ggross@dscc.com

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NETWORKING BREAKFAST 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.

Location: TBD For more information, contact Liz Pretz at (302) 576-6586 or lpretz@dscc.com.

February 4 SMALL BUSINESS ALLIANCE BOARD OF MANAGERS (Open To Board Members Only) 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Location: State Chamber Board Room, 1201 N. Orange Street, Wilmington For more information, contact Sharon Reardon at (302) 576-6578 or sreardon@dscc.com.

events

SMALL BUSINESS ALLIANCE WORKSHOP: Social Media Questions Answered - A Panel Discussion 8:15 a.m. Registration; 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Workshop Location: State Chamber Board Room Cost: $25/Members; $50/Non-Members. For more information, contact Sharon Reardon at (302) 576-6578 or sreardon@dscc.com.

of

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ab c ac le dn ed fg ar

February 2

February 25 EVENING MIXER 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Location: TBD For more information, contact Liz Pretz at (302) 576-6586 or lpretz@dscc.com. n

February 8 AMBASSADOR COMMITTEE MEETING (Open To Committee Members Only) 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Location: State Chamber Board Room, 1201 N. Orange Street, Wilmington For more information, contact Chuck James at (302) 576-6562 or cjames@dscc.com.

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NE W S C H A M B ER

Delaware State Chamber of Commerce

STATE

Small State. Big Benefits

The New State Chamber Health Plan

Certificate of Origin Documents

The cost of employee health care is a top concern among Delaware business owners. The Delaware State Chamber of Commerce (DSCC) has devised an affordable, quality health care plan of real value for its members. The DSCC is proud to announce our relationship with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Delaware to offer an exclusive program for DSCC members which meets the challenge of value, innovation and wellness. Visit www.dscc.com/healthplan.htm today or call (302) 576-6580 for more details.

Certificate of Origin documents are $20 for Chamber members ($100 for non-members). Call (302) 655-7221 for more information.

Provide Group Modern Mailhouse

15-Percent Discount on Direct Mail Would you like to get your marketing message out to other State Chamber members? Provide, LLC can handle printing, fulfillment and mailing. Plus, they are the chosen vendor for managing direct mail to the State Chamber’s mailing list. Contact Jim Basso today at (302) 391-1200 ext. 225 or jim.basso@providegroup.com to see how you can save 15 pecrcent on your mailing needs.

Notary Service

Free for DSCC Members Did you know that Notary Public services are free for Chamber members? Call (302) 655-7221 to make an appointment to stop in for a notary seal on your documents.

Staples Business Advantage

Delmarva Broadcasting Company

Discount Radio Advertising 15 percent in bonus airtime on commercial orders placed by new advertisers on any Delmarva Broadcasting radio station.

Contact Mike Reath at mreath@dbc1.com or call (302) 478-2700 for more information.

DSCC Affinity Credit Card with WorldPoints Rewards

The DSCC affinity card by Bank of America is a business credit card offered exclusively to State Chamber members that also offers a rewards program for discounted airline tickets, free hotel nights and car rentals and more. The Chamber affinity card with WorldPoints® lets members combine points from personal and business cards to get rewards even faster. Redeem rewards for yourself, your employees or your business with this exclusive Chamber benefit. Call (800) 598-8791 to apply; mention priority code FABLHRAQ.

Member-to-Member Discount Directory

State Chamber members offer substantial savings on products and services to fellow members. To see the full list of discounts online, visit www.dscc.com.

Discounted Office Supplies Staples Business Advantage offers Chamber members 25-to-75 Discounted Cell Phone Service percent off their most commonly used items and 25-percent State Chamber members can get a 10-percent discount from off the list price of everything else in their catalog. An online T-Mobile on qualifying monthly recurring charges and other ordering system with next-day delivery is available. Call special offers. Call Aimee Marcionetti at (302) 507-0070 to Dorothy Knauss at (302) 234-4614 or e-mail her at dorothy. learn more about this benefit. knauss@staples.com to receive a welcome kit and a password to access the special Web Discounted Constant Contact Access full details on these site, www.stapleslink.com.

E-mail Marketing Service benefits of membership in State Chamber members are eligible to receive the members-only section of discounts on their Constant Contact account Blood Bank Membership subscriptions. Members can save 20 percent if Small Business Benefit the DSCC Website. For more they prepay for 6 months and 25 percent if they Member companies with five employees or information about obtaining prepay for 12 months. That is a 10-percent deeper less are offered unlimited group coverage your company’s members-only discount than what is available to other customers. in the Blood Bank of Delmarva. Call (302) login credentials, please e-mail To sign up, visit the Constant Contact link on the 655-7221 for more information. Contact the webmaster@dscc.com.

State Chamber’s members-only page. n Blood Bank at www.delmarvablood.org.

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STATE C H A M B ER

Chamber Committees State Chamber members play a visible, active role in the business community by serving on committees. If you would like to get involved, contact the committee’s Chamber representative or register online at www.dscc.com.

Ambassador Committee is a specially chosen group of volunteers that assists in increasing membership and retention, and acts as a liaison between the State Chamber staff and the membership at large.

Contact: Chuck James at (302) 576-6562 or cjames@dscc.com.

NE W S

Ambassador Committee: The

Legislative Committee: Members,

lobbyists and legislative representatives work together to address legislative issues of interest to Chamber members. Monthly lunchtime meetings feature guest speakers who cover current topics of interest to the business community. Contact: Greg Gross at (302) 576-6568 or ggross@dscc.com.

Education & Development Committee: This

committee provides practical, valuable and affordable education and development programs to help existing members and potential members be more successful. Contact: Sharon Reardon at (302) 576-6578 or sreardon@dscc.com.

Tax Committee: This

The Employee Relations Committee: This

Transportation Committee: The

committee meets each month and brings in knowledgeable experts to discuss ever-changing labor and employment laws and regulations that impact all Delaware businesses.

The interaction between speakers and committee members provides a cost-effective and efficient way to obtain up-to-date information that helps employers create or modify personnel policies and procedures before legal problems arise. Contact: Greg Gross at (302) 576-6568 or ggross@dscc.com.

Environmental Committee: Working closely with the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), members are involved in the review and shaping of environmental legislation and regulation. Contact: Greg Gross at (302) 576-6568 or ggross@dscc.com.

Health Care Committee: Members

discuss key health care issues facing Delaware businesses and provide feedback to the Chamber legislative team to assist in formulating policy.

Contact: Katie Grasso at (302) 576-6566 or kgrasso@dscc.com.

Holding Company Committee: Provides

a forum to discuss issues affecting Delaware holding companies on the state and national levels. Contact: Katie Grasso at (302) 576-6566 or kgrasso@dscc.com.

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committee reviews tax legislation and lobbies for the reduction of personal and business taxes in Delaware. Contact: Greg Gross at (302) 576-6568 or ggross@ dscc.com. transportation committee creates a unified voice when making recommendations to the Delaware Department of Transportation. Contact: Greg Gross at (302) 576-6568 or ggross@dscc.com.

Women in Business Committee: This

group helps to support, develop and promote Delaware women in business through networking, education and information exchange by providing connections to accomplished women leaders in business and legislature, and working in partnership with existing organizations with a common purpose. Contact: Sharon Reardon at (302) 576-6578 or sreardon@dscc.com.

committee spotlight: Benefits & Services Committee:

This committee identifies group-oriented benefits, such as health care coverage, discounted office supplies, phone service, direct mail, shipping and much more to help Chamber members be strong and competitive. Contact: Sharon Reardon at (302) 576-6578 or sreardon@dscc.com.

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For Assistance, Call the Chamber

The State Chamber of Commerce staff works for you, serving nearly 2,800 member companies and organizations statewide. This State Chamber staff directory lists phone numbers and e-mail addresses, as well as individual areas of responsibility. If you need business assistance or information, please don’t hesitate to call.

James A. Wolfe President & CEO

576-6560 jwolfe@dscc.com

A. Richard Heffron Sr. Vice President Government Affairs

576-6563 rheffron@dscc.com

Marianne K. Antonini Sr. Vice President Finance & CFO

576-6567 mantonini@dscc.com

Sharon R. Reardon Sr. Vice President Marketing & Exec. Director, Small Business Alliance Superstars in Business Media Relations Membership Marketing Benefits & Services Committee Education & Development Committee Women in Business Committee

576-6578 sreardon@dscc.com

Janine G. Sorbello Sr. Vice President Education & Exec. Director, The Partnership Business Mentoring Alliance Principal for a Day Sharing Forum Teacher Externship Superstars in Education Advocates of Hope

576-6575 jsorbello@dscc.com

Cheryl Corn Executive Assistant to the President Linda D. Eriksen Accounting Associate Liz Pretz Events Manager

576-6566 kgrasso@dscc.com

Gregory L. Gross Director of Government Affairs Employee Relations Committee Environmental Committee Legislative Committee Tax Committee Transportation Committee

576-6568 ggross@dscc.com

Chuck James Account Executive

576-6562 cjames@dscc.com

Arlene M. Simon Account Executive

576-6576 asimon@dscc.com

Bill Stephano Director of Membership

576-6574 bstephano@dscc.com

Angie M. Turochy Information Secretary Meeting Room Rentals General Information

John H. Taylor, Jr. 576-6590 Sr. Vice President & jtaylor@dscc.com Exec. Director, Delaware Public Policy Institute Kelly Cofrancisco Program & Communications Specialist

Katie Grasso Communications Manager Delaware Business Production Web Site Health Care Committee Holding Company Committee

576-6564 kcofrancisco@dscc.com

Miller Publishing, Inc. Fred Miller President, Miller Publishing, Inc. Advertising Sales

655-7221 aturochy@dscc.com

576-6579 fmiller2@dscc.com

Al Tigani, Sr. Advertising Executive

576-6570

576-6572 ccorn@dscc.com 576-6569 leriksen@dscc.com 576-6586 lpretz@dscc.com

Delaware State Chamber of Commerce 1201 N. Orange Street, P.O. Box 671 Wilmington, DE 19899-0671 (302) 655-7221 / Fax (302) 654-0691 (800) 292-9507 Kent & Sussex counties www.dscc.com

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WSFS5373_PJFitz_8.5x11 4C:Layout 1

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“What WSFS means to me.”

Rick Stover, President P.J. Fitzpatrick “To build a successful business, customers need to trust you and feel they’re getting great service. Trust and exceptional service are why P.J. Fitzpatrick has its full banking relationship with WSFS. My relationship manager immerses himself in the company and understands our unique business cycles. I appreciate the bank’s flexibility and nimbleness—and the fact that loan decisions are made quickly and locally—which allows our business to grow.”

www.wsf sbank.co m 1-888-WSFSBANK

©2009 Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB | Member FDIC

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We’ve been his banker for 106 years.

We don’t take that responsibility lightly.

Across economic cycles that have spanned 20 U.S. recessions, 18 U.S. presidents, two world wars and one Great Depression, Wilmington Trust has played a role in the life of his family since 1903. We remain committed to a set of business practices and core values that reflect our focus on building long-term relationships.

We’re proud of our past and equally confident about our future. We owe this to the clarity of purpose in our corporate strategy, the disciplined management of risk, the outstanding work ethic of our staff members, and the hard-won loyalty of our clients, many of whom have been with us for multiple generations.

Our steady approach has served our company and our clients well through the extraordinary economic, social, and technological changes that have taken place since our founding.

We believe it will serve us well in the years ahead.

To find out how Wilmington Trust can help, call Katie Wilkinson today at 302.651.1460.

©2009 Wilmington Trust Company. Member FDIC.

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