LATEST TIM DUKES NEWLETTER
Date Posted: Thursday, May 29th, 2025Reps. 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
