LATEST TIM DUKES NEWLETTER
Reps. Dukes and Ron Gray had the opportunity recently to attend the ribbon-cutting for Mountaire Farms’ new Industrial and Technical Training Center in Selbyville.
According to Mountaire President Amanda Irwin: “The reason why Mountaire has been so successful is because of our people. And that’s not by accident. We’ve been laser-focused on workforce development, identifying talent, and finding ways to encourage people to grow their careers. Our graduates are proof that investing in our people is worth every single penny.”
The first graduates of the maintenance training program were also on hand for the grand opening event.
Delaware’s highest civilian honor is bestowed upon former Sussex County Council President Mike Vincent
CONGRATULATIONS to former Sussex County Council President Mike Vincent.
Governor Meyer recently presented Delaware’s highest civilian honor—the Order of the First State—to five Delawareans, including Mike.
The Order of the First State recognizes individuals whose service, leadership, or achievement has made a profound and lasting impact on Delaware and its people. This award is reserved for exceptional service, leadership, or achievement in any field—public service, philanthropy, education, business, the arts, or community building—that strengthens the fabric of Delaware.
Mike, a lifelong Seaford resident, dedicated decades to public service—serving 14 years on Seaford’s Planning and Zoning Commission and three years on Seaford City Council. He was elected to Sussex County Council in 2008 and served as Council President from 2010 until his retirement last year. His tenure was marked by a focus on public safety, land use, and economic development.
Mike’s fire service record is equally distinguished. He is the Past President and Chief Emeritus of the Seaford Volunteer Fire Department and a former president of the Delaware Volunteer Firefighters Association.
The other four recent recipients of the Order of the First State were: Brooks Banta, Ellen Bartholomaus, Anand Panwalker, and Robert “Bob” Vanderhost.
Fees resume at Delaware State Parks, starting on Sunday (March 1st)
Delaware State Parks are celebrating their 75th anniversary at the beginning of the 2026 fee season on Sunday (March 1st). Daily entrance fees will remain in effect through Monday, November 30th.
DNREC is also rolling out new payment conveniences, including mobile pay via QR codes and routine parking validation tied to daily or annual passes. Surf‑fishing permits—available in one‑ and two‑year options—are currently on sale, with reservations required on select drive‑on beaches during weekends and holidays.
Park-generated revenue covers 65% of operating costs, supporting maintenance, programming, natural resource protection, and visitor amenities across more than 27,000 acres statewide.
Park Fees may be purchased here
Daily entrance fees
Residents – $5 for inland parks, $10 for beach parks
Nonresidents: $10 for inland parks, $20 for beach parks
Annual passes
Residents are $50 and non-residents are $100.
Mark your calendar for a Job Fair at the Laurel Public Library on Tuesday, March 17th
The Laurel Public Library and the Delaware Department of Labor are hosting the 8th annual multi-employer Job Fair at the Laurel Public Library on Tuesday, March 17th between 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Employers, to reserve a table, please e-mail a JPG of your company logo, along with the completed Job Fair registration form, to kristen.chelmow@lib.de.us no later than Friday (February 27th). Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
To contact Tim: Timothy.Dukes@delaware.gov
Delmarva Power Grant Program Information
Delmarva Power and Sustainable Maryland Partner to Fund $45,000 to Support Stronger, More Sustainable Communities
Funding will support organizations across Delaware and Maryland working to protect natural resources and strengthen community resilience
NEWARK, D.E. (April 29, 2025) – Delmarva Power is proud to announce the opening of the Sustainable Communities Grant Program in partnership with Sustainable Maryland. Together, the organizations will distribute $45,000 in funding to support community development, enhance local resiliency, and expand access to open spaces across Delaware and Maryland. The application period is open now through July 16, 2025 and applications are available on Sustainable Maryland’s website.
“Our communities know their needs best, and this program is about giving them the resources to bring smart, sustainable solutions to life,” said Phil Vavala, Region President of Delmarva Power. “Whether it’s improving access to sustainable transportation, creating energy efficient affordable housing, or building a community garden, these projects reflect the resourcefulness and commitment of the people we serve.”
The 2025 Sustainable Communities Grant Program offers $30,000 in environmental stewardship funding for projects that strengthen local ecosystems, promote community access to nature, and support sustainability efforts. An additional $15,000 is available for resiliency projects that help communities prepare for and respond to emergencies—such as severe storms or power disruptions — through locally driven, forward-thinking solutions. Municipalities and nonprofits across Delaware and Maryland are encouraged to apply.
“Community leaders in Maryland and Delaware understand the urgency of preserving, protecting and futureproofing the places their residents call home,” said Mike Hunninghake, Director of Sustainable Maryland. “Delmarva Power’s Sustainable Communities grants provide critical funding for local projects that boost capacity, engage residents, and yield tangible and replicable results.”
Delmarva Power is committed to supporting cleaner, more resilient communities across Delaware and Maryland. The Sustainable Communities Grant Program is one way the company invests in local projects that promote environmental stewardship and community preparedness. This initiative complements Delmarva Power’s broader efforts to help customers reduce energy use and costs through programs, appliance rebates, home energy assessments, and more.
STAY AWAY TO STAY SAFE – DELMARVA POWER
Did you know that May is National Electrical Safety Month? At Delmarva Power, safety is our top priority – for our customers, employees, and the community. As your local energy provider, we’ve pulled together three tips for you to be safe around electricity all year-long.
Be aware of the power lines where you live and work. Always assume power lines are energized. This includes power lines on utility poles as well as those entering your home or buildings. Always keep yourself, your equipment, and anything you carry at least 10 feet from power lines. Even though you may notice a covering on a line, NEVER assume it is safe to touch. Stay Away!
Ladders
Never stand ladders near power lines. When working on or near ladders, keep all tools, the ladder, and anything you carry well away (at least 10 feet) from power lines.
High Reach Equipment
Keep all cranes, scaffolding, and high reach equipment away from overhead power lines. You do not have to make actual contact with an overhead power line to cause a flash which can cause serious burns or electrocution. Never use cranes, derricks or lifting equipment within 20 feet power lines unless you have notified Delmarva Power and know clearance requirements. When performing construction activities, keep people, tools, and equipment at least 10 feet away from overhead power lines carrying up to 50kV and 25 feet for transmission lines (wires on steel poles or towers). If overhead lines are present and you or your equipment will be working within these distances, the law requires that you MUST contact Delmarva Power at 1-800-375-7117 prior to the start of any work.
Fallen Power lines
Keep yourself and others away from any fallen power lines. You never know when they might be energized. Call Delmarva Power at 1-800-898-8042 right away and report the location of the downed wires. If a line falls on your car, stay in your car. If you must get out of the car, jump clear, do not touch any part of your car and the ground at the same time and stay clear of the fallen line.
Trees Near Power Lines
Do not climb or trim trees near power lines and keep children from doing the same. Hire a qualified contractor to trim trees near power lines. Contact Delmarva Power if you have any questions about removing limbs or trees near power lines.
