May 13, 2015 Third Year, 18th Issue This week Tech Trends events will provide glimpse into the future. 3 Grain Bar coming to former Mojo, East End dining, bar site in Newark. 11 Dogfish Head founder to help kick off exhibit in Lewes. 23 More ex-Wilmington Trust execs face criminal, civil charges. 9 DUPONT PREVAILS D UPont management Wednesday proved to be victorious in a battle for four board seat in a contest with billionaire investor Nelson Peltz and his Trian Partners firm. The meeting included a 10-minute speech by Peltz, who was granted the time Kullman by DuPont management prior to the vote announcement. said Trian has a track record of improving companies. He added that Trian will not go away and will closely monitor the performance of the board and management going forward. Kullman, who insisted that Peltz and three other Trian directors not join the board, received a long round of applause after the vote was announced. Peltz received muted applause after his remarks. Kullman emphasized that DuPont is not done Peltz insisted that the interests of DuPont and Trian were closely aligned in an apparent response to in its transformation that includes spinning off its DuPont management claims that Peltz and company Performance Chemicals business into a company wanted to sell off businesses, slash research and load known as Chemours. up the company with debt. The outcome of the election remained a closely Peltz took credit for the cost cutting efforts. He Continued on next page All four members of management slate elected From previous page Cameras were barred and all in attendance had to go through a metal detector. In a bow toward the digital age, tablet computers were permitted as well as tweets guarded secret, with few observers publicly making predictions in the days prior to the meeting. The Wall Street Journal tweeted out news of the management win and other postings as long as laptop computers were not used. a few minutes before the formal announcement of the vote. The crowd at the meeting appeared to be heavily represented by elderly retirees, some of whom cast their ballots during the meet. Retires and employees, who were viewed as the swing vote in the proxy contest, were targeted in multimillion dollar advertising campaigns by both Trian and DuPont. The proxy contest was closely watched in corporate America, since DuPont is not a typical target of firms like Trian that seek changes aimed at boosting stock prices. .It was widely believed that the hundreds of billions of dollars under management by funds like Trian could be used to target other well-managed companies. Pressure to profit from those changes as the stock market remains in record territory and Kullman and other DuPont management members reportedly meet with Peltz and Trian many times, at one point holding out prospects of allowing one Trian nominee to join the board. However, Peltz insisted on joining the board, a suggestion that Kullman emphatically rejected. Security was tight at the meeting, with a contingent of State Police on hand, as well as a large number DuPont security staffers. Innovations to be highlighted at Technology Forum event T wo hundred people are expected to attend the Top Tech Trends celebration, on Wed., May 20. * Internet of Things * Additive Manufacturing * Clean Energy and Sustainable Technologies * Crowdfunding * Client/Cloud Computing * Immersive Content and Gamification Also on hand will be representatives of some of the area’s newest companies. Capital One will also hold an event for information technology and managerial professionals looking for a career with the company. For a list of openings click here. This event is for everyone who is working to adAttendees will see some of the newest tech initiatives vance the top technology trends that are changing the from the familiar leaders in the community such as world, a tech forum release stated. DuPont, Nemours, and the University of Delaware. Continued on next page The event is presented by the Technology Forum of Delaware. Click here to register. “Every year, consultants and tech experts predict the tech trends that are changing the world. We want to spotlight the Delaware tech leaders and innovators who are participating in these trends,” said George Rotsch, board member of the Tech Forum and event co-organizer/marketing chair. The event will be held at the Capital One Benjamin Franklin Building at 802 Delaware Ave., Wilmington. ELECTRONICS RECYCLING DATA DESTRUCTION The event gets under way at 5:30 p.m., with the program getting under way at 6 p.m. Located in New Castle, DE | 302.262.9905 Trends to be covered include: Event to examine cutting edge work by area companies From previous page This event will begin with a networking reception with light food and drinks in the newly renovated Capital One lobby and cafeteria. Master of ceremonies is WDEL host Rick Jensen. Keynote speaker is Jim Lee, founder of Strategic Foresight Investments, and Delaware’s only professionally-trained futurist. “The members of the Tech Forum along with tech leaders from across the region have nominated these innovators. A panel of experts, including Delaware’s only professionally-trained futurist, selected the honorees. You will be amazed at what is happening in our tech community. ” says Jennifer Kmiec, board member of the Tech Forum and event co-organizer / program chair. “We are thrilled to host this celebration of all the innovative things the local tech community is doing,” said Rick Sommer, president of the Technology Forum of Delaware. We are grateful for the support that we received from so many organizations including Capital One, Potter Anderson, the University of Delaware, and so many more”. The event comes after a second successful Idea Challenge, also sponsored by the Technology Forum. The challenge came up with technology-based approaches that would aid the quality of life in Wilmington. The event was held in February. Sponsors and supporting organizations Host Sponsor: Capital One Event Sponsor: Potter Anderson & Corroon Marketing Sponsors:Digital Eye, 3E Marketing Solutions Supporting Organizations: Downtown Visions Start It Up Delaware First State Innovation Delaware Bio Delaware Sustainable Chemistry Alliance Wilmington Renaissance Corp Delamarva Broadcasting/WDEL Delaware Business Daily Delaware Business Times Technical.ly Delaware Radio Newark Artesian Resources reports higher earnings in the first quarter of ‘15 Artesian Resources Corp., Newark, reported higher earnings in the first quarter. Net income for the first quarter of 2015 was $2.5 million, up $500,000 from the same period a year earlier. Revenues for the first quarter of 2015 were $18 million, a 6.3 percent increase from the $16.9 million in revenues recorded for the same three-month period of 2014. providing reliable delivery of high quality water,” said Dian C. Taylor, Chair, CEO. “While we await a decision on our pending request for rate relief, we continue to make system improvements to ensure a reliable and safe water supply to our customers. In the first quarter of 2015, we invested another $3.3 million for such improvements,” said Taylor. Non-utility operating revenues for the first quarter of 2015 were $1.1 million, a 3.8 percent increase Water sales revenue increased by $1 million, or from the same period in 2014, reflecting increased 6.3 percent, to $16 million for the first quarter of enrollment in Artesian’s Service Line Protection 2015. Plans. “We continue to see increased enrollment in our water and wastewater Service Line Protection The growth in water sales revenue resulted Plans, with 27.4 percent of our eligible customers primarily from greater consumption and interim now enrolled for water service coverage and 20.5 rate relief placed into effect, pending final review percent of eligible customers enrolled for sewer serand approval by the Delaware Public Service Commission of Artesian’s April 11, 2014 rate appli- vice coverage,” said Taylor. cation. “Artesian invested over $47.1 million in infraArtesian Water Company supplies more than 7.6 structure improvements to ensure water quality and billion gallons of water per year through 1,201 service reliability for its customers since its last rate miles of water main to about 300,000 people on the Delmarva Peninsula. request in April 2011, and remains committed to construction/architecture Bernardon Haber Holloway promotes McCloskey Bernardon Haber Holloway Architects is pleased to announce that Michael S. McCloskey, AIA, LEED AP BD+C has joined the firm’s senior leadership team as a Shareholder and Associate Principal. McCloskey joined Bernardon McCloskey Haber Holloway Architects in 2007 and has since specialized in the design and management of a wide range of project types, including multifamily, corporate, emergency services, retail, and urban design. In his new role McCloskey will also be assisting with the firm’s ongoing business development efforts. He will continue to lead the in-house intern development program and help to reinforce the firm’s presence in several key market sectors, especially multifamily residential. “During his tenure here, Mike has distinguished himself as a talented architect and has demonstrated professional excellence and leadership in multiple areas, including design, client relations, and managing projects and budgets,” says Art Bernardon, founder of the firm. “This is a very positive step for our firm.” Mike is a graduate of Drexel University where he earned a Bachelor of Architecture degree and where he currently serves as an Adjunct Professor. He is a member of the Philadelphia Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, Delaware Valley Green Building Council, Urban Land Institute, and the American Planning Association. He also has a special area of interest in smart urban growth and sustainability. Architects is a regional architecture, interior design, and landscape architecture firm. The firm has also announced several new staff members in recent months, reflecting the firm’s commitment to growth and expansion, which will allow better service to the wide array of clients that rely on the firm’s diverse and creative design solutions. Bernardon Haber Holloway Architects has offices in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania and Wilmington, Delaware. For more information call (610) 444-2900 or visit www.bernardon.com. Nickle wins safety awards Nickle Electrical Companies received two safety awards from local contractors association. “Ultimately, it was an easy decision to make this commitment to the firm,” says McCloskey of his new position. “Moving forward, I think we have a great On March 12, Nickle was selected as one of the opportunity to build upon the solid foundation that recipients of the 2014 Governor’s Safety Awards for the existing principals and our founder have provided the fourth year in a row. The honor was co-sponsored over the last 42 years.” by the Delaware Contractors Association and the Delaware Department of Labor. Continued on next page Established in 1973, Bernardon Haber Holloway construction/architecture From previous page The award is given to contractors that “bring distinction, skill, and integrity to the construction industry.” On May 7, Nickle was presented with its ninth consecutive Associated Builders and Contractors of Delaware STEP Award for safety. The STEP (Safety Training and Evaluation Process) program is designed to support ABC members with development and improvement of safety and training efforts. The awards are given in five levels based on a company’s safety program and this was the second year Nickle received the top award at the Diamond level. Greg Yazidjian, top photo and Ryan Cooke, center photo accept award from Steve Dignan. At bottom right photo, Nickle Safety Director Mike Anderson accepts the ABC Diamond STEP Award. Nickle Co-Ops Ryan Cooke and Greg Yazidjian also received recognition at the event, accepting an ABC Delaware Student Award. The award is presented to students from the New Castle County Vo-Tech School District who are enrolled in the construction trade curriculum and have shown outstanding academic achievement while successfully completing a co-op program with an ABC member. Continued on next page construction/architecture From previous page Gillis Gilkerson to renovate Sussex Academy Gillis Gilkerson, Salisbury, MD, announced it has won a competitive bid to renovate Sussex Academy charter school at 21150 Airport Road Georgetown. The 21,844 square foot renovation will include the construction of a new cafeteria, kitchen, library, chemistry lab and stage. “We value the quality educational surroundings our schools strive to provide for the youth in our community,” said Dwight Miller, president, Gillis Gilkerson. “We know the Sussex Academy students and staff are well deserving of the renovations we are working on for them and look forward to finishing up quickly as to not interfere with the learning environment.” Gillis Project Manager, Michael Truitt and Project Superintendent, Daryl Mitchell have started demolition on Phase 1 (chemistry lab, kitchen and cafeteria) which is scheduled to be complete by August, 2015 with the balance completed in December, 2015. Wohlsen wins safety award Wohlsen Construction Company was awarded the 2nd place Chapter Contractor Safety Excellence Award from the National Association of Women in Construction’s (NAWIC) #96 Chapter in Wilmington. NAWIC is an association for female professionals working in the field of construction, promoting and supporting “the advancement and employment of women in the construction industry.” NAWIC’s annual Safety Excellence Award serves to recognize member companies who recognize safety as a corporate value and commitment by implementing effective safety and loss prevention programs. T he Delaware Business Bulletin is an electronic business journal published in a digital format each Wednesday by Bird Street Media, LLC, Newark, Del. The Business Bulletin offers numerous opportunities for advertising messages and sponsorships for its business-to-business audience at highly affordable rates. For further information on advertising and sponsorships, e-mail Michael Klezaras at [email protected] The Business Bulletin and the companion DelawareBusinessDaily.com website are proud members of Local Independent News Publishers (LION). Criminal, civil charges come down in Wilmington Trust probe T he Securities and Exchange Commission filed civil fraud charges against four former officers of Wilmington Trust, including the ex-company president, for intentionally understating past due bank loans during the financial crisis. of past due real estate loans from financial reports filed by Wilmington Trust in 2009 and 2010. disclosures in the third quarter of 2009, so that the bank disclosed only $38.7 million of such loans. The four former officials allegedly omitted approximately $330.2 million of these loans in the fourth quarter of 2009, so that the bank’s annual report disclosed just $30.6 million in matured loans 90 days or more past due, according to the release. “Corporate officials bear important responsibility for ensuring that corporate filings provide the investing public with accurate information about the company’s financial condition. We allege these defendants doctored a key financial metric to make In addition, the complaint alleges that Gibson, it appear to investors that the bank was financially Harra sound, when the reality was quite the contrary,” said Rakowski and North worked to materially misreport Andrew M. Calamari, director of the SEC’s New York this category of past due loans in the first half of This comes on top of criminal 2010. indictments against two of the officers that were filed Regional Office. Wednesday. Gibson also is alleged to have materially understated The complaint names the bank’s former Chief the amount of non-accruing loans in Wilmington Financial Officer David R. Gibson, former Chief Click here for past stories on Wilmington Trust Trust’s portfolio in the third quarter of 2009 and that also included charges of improper loans between Operating Officer and President Robert V.A. Harra, the bank’s loan loss provision and allowance for loan former Controller Kevyn N. Rakowski, and former bankers. losses in the fourth quarter of 2009. Chief Credit Officer William B. North. Wilmington Trust was acquired by M&T Bank in May 2011 and paid $18.5 million in September 2014 Separately, North and Rakowski were indicted on criminal charges related to the concealing of loan to settle SEC charges of improper accounting and information. disclosure fraud. Harra is the highest ranking official of Wilmington The SEC’s complaint, filed in US District Court in Trust to be named in civil actions. Wilmington, alleged the four took part in a scheme to conceal the impact of real estate market declines on The complaint alleges that Gibson, Rakowski, and the bank’s portfolio of commercial real estate loans. According to the SEC’s complaint, the former officials North omitted approximately $351 million of loans 90 days or more past due from Wilmington Trust’s improperly excluded hundreds of millions of dollars Gibson, Harra, Rakowski and North are each charged with violating or aiding and abetting violations of the antifraud provisions of the federal securities laws. Each also is charged with aiding and abetting violations of the reporting, recordkeeping, and internal controls provision of the federal securities laws. The SEC is seeking to have all four return gains with interest and pay civil monetary penalties, and to have Gibson and Harra barred from Continued on next page Chesapeake Utilities reports higher earnings in first quarter C hesapeake Utilities Corp., Dover, reported higher first quarter financial results. The company’s net income for the three months ended March 31, 2015 was $21.1 million. This represents an increase of $3.4 million over the same quarter in 2014. (“GRIP”) and a base rate adjustment, contributed to our strong performance. In addition, our results were further aided by colder weather and higher retail propane margins,” stated Michael P. McMasters, President and Chief Executive Officer of Chesapeake Utilities Corporation. “We are off to a great start in 2015. Continued growth from natural gas service expansions, customer growth and the impact of regulatory initiatives, such as the Florida Gas Reliability Infrastructure Program “In February, we announced the acquisition of Gatherco, Inc. (“Gatherco”), a natural gas infrastructure company providing midstream services in Central and Eastern Ohio,” continued Mr. McMasters. “The transaction closed successfully ahead of schedule on April 1, 2015, and we are focused on growing Gatherco’s operations. We continue to evaluate other attractive growth opportunities within and beyond our current markets, with the goal of transforming such opportunities into new investments that generate increased earnings growth.” Investigation yields charges From previous page serving as corporate officers or directors. In a related action, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware today announced criminal charges against Rakowski and North. The SEC received the assistance of the U. S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Federal Reserve, and Office of the Special Inspector General for the Troubled Asset Relief Program. Since the first quarter of 2015 and 2014 were both significantly colder than normal (10-year average weather) on the Delmarva Peninsula, weather was not a significant factor in earnings comparisons. Trending The following stories in DelawareBusinessDaily.com recorded the most visits in the past week. 1. (Photo gallery) 500 attend 50th anniversary for Mitchell Associates 2. SEC claims ex-Wilmington Trust president, 3 other officers understated loan problems 3. Tiger Direct closing Christiana store 4. (Photo gallery) Cabela’s opens store near Christiana Mall 4. Elliott runs out of Morning Drive Time at WILM 5. Two former Wilmington Trust officers indicted 6. Business people: May 6-12, 2015 7. Christiana Mall area moves into the fast lane 8. Wastemasters celebrates remarkable period of growth 9. WDEL goes on air at KISS FM slot 10. State grant to extend fiber-optic cable system in Sussex dining Grain to add an inventive touch to Newark dining scene T was not a given, according to Michaels, who noted that the location comes with a less than spotless history. he move toward more upscale beer and dining options continues with plans to open an establishment at the former Mojo Main and East End Café site on East Main Street. Mikles praised the efforts of city officials who proved to be “incredibly helpful” in explaining the approval process. He also had kind words for residents who offered their support. Jim O’Donoghue, Catie Mahoney O’Donoghue, Kathy Malone Mikles and Lee Mikles plan to open Grain Craft Bar + Kitchen. Mikles said in a Facebook post Grain will feature “creative modern American food, craft drinks and a great time.” He went on to add that Craft will focus on locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. Plans call for lunch and dinner and Sunday brunch. Lee Mikles is an entrepreneur with a marketing background who teaches at the University of Delaware. He was a founder of the Archer Group in Wilmington, an advertising agency heavily involved in the digitial world. Mikles will be using his knowledge of social media to get the word out on the new venture. Mikles is also a founder and president Mikles, left and O’Donoughue. of StartItUp Delaware, an organization devoting to building a vibrant start-up community in the state “I felt I had one more start-up in me,” Mikles said as work continues at the East Main Street location. Grain takes its name and inspiration from inventor Oliver Evans, a figure in Delaware history that Mikles stumbled upon when doing research as part of the StartItUp Delaware effort. Evans, who was born in Newport in the 1750s, developed an automated flour mill that went on to revolutionize the industry along the Brandywine Creek and other areas of the East Coast. Mikles and O’Donoghue had been talking for some He is also credited with developing the first time about the venture. Essential to the project were automobile or carriage, which was powered by steam. approvals from the City of Newark and the state Evans’ image and work will be part of the front room Office of Alcohol Beverage Control. of Grain, a gastropub. The landlords are also supporting the project. That Continued on next page dining Continued on next page The back room will be a an area to hang out, with acoustic music offered from singer-songwriters and others. That will mark a departure from the metal and other types of bands that were part of the entertainment mix at Mojo and East End. Thanks to the suggestions and work of Yorklynbased interior designer Katie O’Hara, the early focus of Grain will be on its covered patio, MIkles said. He praised the designer for taking a fresh look at the space. annual Food and Brew event in late July. The interior will not be gutted. Instead, the emphasis will be on keeping the best features of the East End-Mojo, such as the handsome back bar and perhaps the hardwood floor. It’s all aimed at appealing to an older crowd that might have frequented the previous establishments. The East Main Street area has been slow to see the turnaround that has gone in areas to the west. That creates a challenge as well as an opportunity for Grain. A sketch of the outdoor area. Mikles says the restaurant-bar will never be as dependent on students as its counterparts to the west. The hope is to appeal to a growing number of diners who now come to Newark. highly competitive niche with the recent reopening of Stone Balloon Ale House (formerly 16 Mile and Stone Balloon Wine House), and the success of Two Stones in the Brookside area east of Newark. At the same time, the overhaul of the Newark Shopping Center and a large student housing complex at the site of the center’s former bowling alley are expected to bring more pedestrian traffic to the area. Also coming to the area is Churrascaria Saudades, a Brazilian steakhouse that is slated to open later this year in the Newark Shopping Center. Mikles says the large number of restaurants is a plus in bringing people to Newark. The patio could prove to be a competitive advantage in a Newark dining scene. In the past few years, The location also comes with a major advantage on outdoor tables can be hard to find on a nice day. Main Street in the form of a large outdoor seating. In the meantime, the renovation efforts are under way, with the goal of opening in time for Newark’s The craft brew and food scene in the Newark is a Ricky Ricky Nietubicz, community affairs officer for the City of Newark, estimates the Main Street area has a couple of dozen restaurants with liquor licenses. technology Verizon invests $53+ million in Delaware network Verizon invested more than $53 million in its Delaware fiber-optic and wireline networks last year, the company reported. In addition, Verizon Wireless invested more than $270 million in its Philadelphia Tri-State region, which includes Delaware. The upgrades gave Verizon’s customers improved data speeds and enhanced network capacity within the region, a release stated. Verizon Wireless also continued to expand 4G LTE and XLTE networks across the region, to deploy small cells and distributed antenna systems in hightraffic areas, and to begin rolling out Voice over LTE (VoLTE) technology. “Technology has dramatically changed the way people live, learn and work, and Verizon’s network investments ensure that consumers in Delaware have access to the services they need to manage their lives in the Internet Age,” said Paul Sullivan, president of Verizon’s Mid-Atlantic North region. “Our customers can feel confident they are receiving services over the best, in networks and technologies that touch lives and more reliable communications networks available.” makes a difference in our communities.” “Delaware recognizes how competition and technology have changed the communications industry and has promoted forward-looking public policy that encourages investment and innovation,” Sullivan said. “Verizon continues to be a leader in private investment in Delaware and will help fuel the state’s economic development and growth through investments Last year Verizon continued deployment of its 100 percent fiber-optic network, with its FiOS TV and FiOS Internet services. At year’s end, FiOS services were available to more than 220,000 homes and businesses across Delaware. Click here to register May 20, Capital One, Wilmington Delaware Electric co-op using ground, air to boost reliability Peninsula Regional joins Health Information Network D The Eastern Shore’s largest hospital network – Peninsula Regional Medical Center (PRMC) based in Salisbury, MD, joined the Delaware Health Information Network. Last week, McKim & Creed, based in North Carolina, used a helicopter to scan 40 miles of transmission lines in Sussex County using LIDAR technology. LIDAR uses light from a laser to capture detailed images of transmission lines and the surrounding terrain, allowing engineers to see where trees may be in danger of falling on lines and if electrical equipment needs to be replaced. When fully online later this year, laboratory, pathology and radiology test results as well as the transcription summaries of thousands of Delawareans who seek care at PRMC will be delivered and accessed through DHIN. elaware Electric Cooperative is using new helicopter and ground-based technology to improve reliability. Scanning took place near Angola, between Laurel and Seaford, Five Points, the Retreat at Love Creek and Ocean View.This is the first time Delaware Electric Cooperative has used LIDAR technology and a helicopter to improve the system. According to co-op Engineering Manager Troy Dickerson, “The technology being used isn’t new, but this is the first time the co-op has been able to utilize the scanning equipment. Maintaining thousands of miles of power lines is a tough job and this is going to make our job easier. This is good for members and good for DEC.” Results from the aerial imaging are expected in June. Co-op employees will then fix any problems that are found on the system. Dickerson said the project cost the co-op $200,000, an important investment that will result in fewer outages, saving Coop members money by avoiding future repairs. Starting on May 11th, contract crews from PowerServices, an engineering firm which specializes in electric utility infrastructure and operations will also begin a ground inspection of transmission lines, which may take several weeks to complete. Co-op officials said using a combination of aerial and ground inspections is a more cost-effective and efficient way to gauge the health of the electrical system. Delaware Electric Cooperative is a member-owned electric utility serving 90,000 member-owners in Kent and Sussex County, DEL. For more information, visit www.delaware.coop “The days of patients being asked to carry copies of their own records, or of medical practices needing to fax, scan or mail results is diminishing,” said Dr. Jan Lee, CEO of DHIN. “This is a very exciting moment for all of us. It is the deepest across-statelines agreement we have developed to-date, and it will result in saved time and effort for medical professionals and better care for patients.” PRMC is the largest Maryland hospital to join DHIN, continuing the momentum begun in 2013 when Atlantic General Hospital in Berlin, MD came aboard and expanding earlier this spring when Union Hospital came onboard. DHIN was the first statewide health information exchange to launch in the United States. Verizon to buy online pioneer AOL for $4.4 billion V erizon Communications Inc. has agreed to buy online pioneer AOL Inc. for about $4.4 billion. Verizon’s acquisition further drives its LTE wireless video and OTT (over-the-top video) strategy, the company stated. The transaction was puzzling to those who did not know that AOL was building up online advertising platforms. The company is best known for its dial-up internet service in the 1990s and its ownership of online properties like the Huffington Post. AOL also operated the local news website chain, Patch, which lost tens of millions of dollars and was later sold. Patch never operated in the Delaware market after first indicating it would set up a presence in Newark. The agreement will also support and connect to Verizon’s IoT (Internet of Things) platforms, creating a growth platform from wireless to IoT for consumers and businesses, Verizon further stated. The combination of Verizon and AOL creates a scaled, mobile-first platform offering directly targeted at what eMarketer estimates is a nearly $600 billion global advertising industry,” a Verizon release stated. AOL’s key assets include its subscription business; its premium portfolio of global content brands, including The Huffington Post, TechCrunch, Engadget, MAKERS and AOL.com, as well as its original video content; and its programmatic advertising platforms. we’ve been strategically investing in emerging technology, including Verizon Digital Media Services and OTT, that taps into the market shift to digital content and advertising. AOL’s advertising model aligns with this approach, and the advertising platform provides a key tool for us to develop future revenue streams.” Tim Armstrong, AOL chairman and CEO, will continue to lead AOL operations after closing. The transaction is subject to customary regulatory Lowell McAdam, Verizon CEO, said “AOL has approvals and closing conditions and is expected to once again become a digital trailblazer, and we are close this summer. excited at the prospect of charting a new course together in the digitally connected world. At Verizon, Click here to register May 20, Capital One, Wilmington Aero Ways now flyADVANCED flyADVANCED, a provider of executive and personal aircraft management, Fixed Base Operations (FBO), charter, rental and flight training services, announced the renaming of Aero Ways Inc. to flyADVANCED. Aero Ways was purchased in 2014. “The Wilmington location (ILG) extends our geographic footprint and expands our capabilities, providing existing and prospective clients with a tremendous benefit,” noted flyADVANCED owner Regis de Ramel. flyADVANCED manages and is the sole fixed base operator at Wings Airfield (LOM) in Blue Bell, PA, a suburb of Philadelphia. The company also operates a maintenance facility at Lancaster Airport. “Wilmington is ideally situated as a highly desirable alternative to the Philadelphia airport, both in terms of geography and the surrounding population of businesses,” Ramel said. “We are uniquely positioned to provide the infrastructure and focus needed to expand both our own business and that of the airport in general.” flyADVANCED continues to add charter aircraft to its fleet. It now offers a fleet of four jets, two turbo props and four props for charter, and nine Cirrus aircraft for rental. “We are pleased to have flyADVANCED at the New Castle Airport,” said Victor Ferzetti, CFO of the Delaware River and Bay Authority. We expect that flyADVANCED will be a strong part of the region’s success in air travel and management services going forward.” Comcast adding 5,0000 jobs in bid to boost customer service Comcast announced a multi-year plan Comcast does not operate stores in Delto improve customer service that will aware but does have a return center in include 5,000 jobs new jobs nationwide a New Castle shopping center with emin coming years, as well as investments in ployees sitting behind glass barriers. technology and training. Comcast, while claiming its customer Comcast has more than 1,000 employ- service is better than reports indicate, has ees in Delaware, with a large number de- continued to be plagued by problems that voted to technical support and customer have “gone viral” in social media. service. In a Consumer Reports survey last year, The plan includes creating more than Comcast ranked 15th in customer satisfac5,500 customer service jobs over the next tion, while Delaware rival Verizon ranked few years and setting a goal to always be first. on time for customer appointments by Among business internet users, Comthe third quarter of this year. cast has a better reputation, thanks to a Also planned are investments in tech- separate support staff. This announcenology and training. The company will ment also comes after a planned merger simplify billing and create better policies with Time-Warner Cable fell apart. to provide greater consistency and transparency to customers, a release stated. While challenges from federal regulators were cited in the decision, customer Additionally, the plan includes the service issues at both companies did not help. renovation of hundreds of stores across the country and the development of new technologies. SBA military-business transition program aids 100 in Delaware The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), today announced that the agency’s Boots to Business program has now trained 25,000 transitioning service members. The number includes 100 people in Delaware For two years, Boots to Business—the entrepreneurship track of the Department of Defense’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP)—has provided entrepreneurship and business planning training to members of America’s armed forces who are transitioning to civilian life, giving them the tools to start their own successful companies. Fresh Faced opens second location Fresh Faced Skin Care held a grand opening late last month at its newest location off Route 52 in Mendenhall, PA, west of Centreville and Greenville, DE. The business is owned by Erica Suppa. Suppa, left, was joined in the ribbon cutting ceremony by members of the Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce. Fresh Faced also has a location in Old New Castle, DE. “We have been very successful in Delaware delivering the Boots to Business program at Dover Air Force Base. While some of the trainees move from the state after leaving the Air Force, we still have a large number that start businesses and hire employees locally,” said SBA Delaware District Director, John Fleming. The two day class is presented at Dover Air Force Base every other month. For information on the program, contact Jim Provo at james.provo@sba. gov Boots to Business is now available on more than 165 military installations worldwide. opinion Time for a long-term approach to transportation funding issue Legislators, who have been looking for ways to deal with a worrisome gap in transportation funding, have come up overlooked revenue source. (Video) Small Business Week (Click on image above to view video) In his weekly message, Gov. Jack Markell recognized National Small Business Week and highlighted statewide efforts to support small businesses and entrepreneurs, including the Small Business Focus Program and Small Business Assistance Program. “These employers helped our state outpace the nation in job growth, and we’re committed to helping them realize their potential,” said Markell.” According to WHYY Newsworks, a bill proposes increases in various fees that include drivers licenses and added penalties for expired tags. The fees have not been raised since the 1990s. It’s a modest amount of money and does not provide a long-term solution. An opportunity was lost last year when election year politics and an overly ambitious 10-cent increase proposed by the Markell administration led a toll increase that brought in a few bucks. Some tweaking of the prevailing wage has also been mentioned. Abolishing the set wages for construction wage for transportation projects would. by most estimates, free up millions of dollars. Also, few are ruling out the possibility of some sort of gas tax increase plan emerging toward the end of the session. Republicans have countered with a plan to move transportation salaries over to the general fund over a period of years. It’s a sound approach, but one that would result in spending cuts at a time when the gaming industry, a sizable employer, is in need of relief from a high “take” from the state and revenue growth remains sluggish. Rather than turning over the couch cushions at the end of each session, it would be good to see a longer-term solution that has somehow emerged in nearly every state around us. kudos (business honors) Trinity Logistics makes top truck brokerage list For the 13th consecutive year, Trinity Logistics, Seaford, was named to Transport Topic’s list of the top brokerages in the industry. mitment to being a trusted and transparent organization,” stated Seth J. Katzen, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Delaware. “Being one of only five Delaware charities to receive this honor is a true testament to our dedicated leadership and staff.” coveted Four-Star Rating from Charity Navigator, the Delaware End-of-Life Coalition Honors Beebe The list is assembled by Transport Topics Magazine nation’s largest and most-utilized evaluator of chariHealthcare physician and chaplain with 2015 Excelties. annually and ranks logistics companies based on lence Awards their net revenue, company reports, and data from Charity Navigator rates charities by evaluating two Armstrong & Associates. broad areas of performance; Financial Health and Ac- Beebe physician, chaplain honored countability & Transparency. These ratings show doThe company ranked No. 20 on the list. The nors how efficiently a charity uses their support today, Delaware End-of-Life Coalition recognized Beebe company cited «the relationship-driven Trinity how well it has sustained its programs and services Healthcare’s Physician Advisor Michael Salvatore, team members who have created a unique and over time and their level of commitment to being ac- MD, and Chaplain Keith Goheen, for making o enviable culture of teamwork, cooperation, and countable and transparent. contributions toward advancing palliative care in Delempowerment.» aware. Charity Navigator provides these ratings so that do“Trinity Logistics is empowered by our ability nors can make intelligent giving decisions, and so that “We are proud and honored that both Dr. Salvato evolve in the industry through relationships, the philanthropic community can be more effectively tore and Rev. Goheen have been recognized by this teamwork, and our core values,” said Jeff Banning, monitored. statewide coalition for the care and compassion they CEO. “We never lose sight of doing the right thing provide our patients,” said Jeffrey M. Fried, CEO for our customers, our team, or our business.» Jewish Federation of Delaware is one of only five of Beebe Healthcare, Lewes. “End of life is a diffiFour-Star Rated charities in Delaware. cult time for patients, their families and friends, their Jewish Federation wins Four-Star rating caregivers, and for the Beebe team members who “Receiving Charity Navigator’s Four-Star rating The Jewish Federation of Delaware has received a Continued on next page recognizes our financial health as well as our com- kudos (business honors) ter working at Beebe for more than 18 years as a have cared for them. Dr. Salvatore and Rev. Goheen pulmonologist and critihave a great depth of knowledge, understanding and cal care specialist. He is compassion for individuals who are at or near the end Board Certified in Pulof their lives. They are advocates for the patients and monology, Critical Care have mentored many of our team members dedicated medicine and Sleep Medito maintaining the patient’s dignity and compassion cine. during all stages of care. We are fortunate to have both Dr. Salvatore and Reverend Goheen as part of Goheen, who has led our healthcare team.” Beebe’s Palliative Care Team since 2012, was Salavatore was recognized for his leadership qualirecognized for his work ties, compassion and knowledge in providing educaSalvatore and Goheen in assisting hundreds of tion to end-of-life patients through his role in Case patients and families in Management and on the Palliative Care Team at Beebuilding consensus on be. medically appropriate and ethically responsive treatment plans. He provides education to Beebe case managers on how to advocate for “quality of life” to patients and He is known for being available at any hour, day or to give them options, introducing quality care versus night, to meet the needs of patients and their families. always treatment as the best choice. He also recently His strong communication skills promote cooperawas recognized as one of our top speakers for the tion in every emotional situation. Maryland/Delaware Chapter of the American Case Management Association. Goheen joined Beebe as Chaplain in 2005 and leads its chaplaincy team. Salvatore became Physician Advisor in 2012 af- From previous page He also coordinates the Pastoral Visitors Program, assisting local religious groups who provide religious support to their memberships. Ernst & Young names Bench finalist Ernst & Young announced that CEO Thad L. Bench, Sr. of Benchworks, Chestertown, Md., is a finalist for the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2015 Award in the Bench Maryland Region. The awards program recognizes entrepreneurs who demonstrate excellence and extraordinary success in such areas as innovation, financial performance and personal commitment to their businesses and communities. Thad Bench was selected as a finalist by a panel of independent judges. Benchworks is a marketing and branding firm. not for profit 10,000 meals packaged On Saturday, the Newark Morning Rotary Club partnered with students and faculty from the University of Delaware Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Management program to package 10,000 meals. The half-day event took place at the Courtyard Newark at the University of Delaware. The meals will feed hungry people in all parts of the world. Sales contest aids charities charities will receive a $250 donation. • Cullin’s donation will go to the American Cancer Society • Swingle’s donation will go the Southern Delaware Therapeutic Riding of Nassau. “Giving back to the community is part of our culture here at Long & Foster, and our Rehoboth Beach family greatly enjoys being able to support so many local and national organizations in their efforts to improve the lives of so many of our fellow Americans,” said Carol Materniak, manager of Long & Foster’s Rehoboth Beach office. “At a time when many organizations have a great need for extra support, we are honored to have an opportunity to assist them in getting the job done.” When Long & Foster Real Estate held its Coastal regional sales competition in March, the firm Terry Spahr, senior vice president and regional decided to award its winning agents with both a cash prize and a donation of the matching amount to the manager for Long & Foster’s Coastal Region, agreed. “At Long & Foster, we coordinate numerous charity of that agent’s choice. charitable events throughout the year, but this is the first year that our sales competition has rewarded not Long & Foster’s Coastal region includes all the only our sales associates for their hard work, but also firm’s offices on the New Jersey shore, the Delaware contributed to their favorite charity. We’re thrilled to beaches and Maryland’s Eastern Shore. help the community in this new way, and we’re In the Rehoboth Beach, DE office, Bill Cullin and committed to making the competition an annual Jennifer Swingle were named as winners. The selected event.” people (Click here for the online photo gallery) Two join IFS benefits IFS Benefits, LLC announced two new hires. Terry Vreken has joined as a Senior Client Manager, and Alexis Wall as a Benefit Specialist. A Wilmington University graduate, Vreken has spent nearly 25 years in the health insurance industry. She has served in various roles within the Sales organization at Coventry Health Care, she spent the last 15 years in Account Management, where she spent five years leading the Coventry Account Management team in Delaware and Maryland. She is licensed in Delaware, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. Vreken is a Certified Health Care Reform Specialist, and a member of National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors. She is a recent founder of Fund for Women (FFW) and serves on the FFW Grants Committee. Wall served various roles within Aetna and comes with 8 years of health insurance experience. Ferry named to NAWBO board Diane Ferry, president and CEO of Star-Med was recently elected as a member to The National Association of Women Business Owners® (NAWBO) 2015-16 Board of Directors for a two- year term. Ferry She started Star-Med, LLC over 14 years ago to provide customized solutions in health information management services to hospitals and physicians’ offices. Ferry is a former Director of Health Information Management at several academic medical centers and was Chief Operating Officer of a national Health Information Management company serving over 400 facilities before starting Star-Med. Ferry was President of the Delaware Health Information Management Association twice and is a presenter at educational seminars. She is also very active among her peers and supporting women in business, having been twice elected as President of the Delaware chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners. Ferry has recently been awarded the New Castle County Entrepreneur of the year and The NAWBODE Business Woman of the year. Schenck becomes CPA Santora CPA Group announce that Melanie A. Schenck recently completed all of the Delaware State Board of Accountancy’s requirements to become a Certified Public Accountant. She is a graduate of the University of Delaware Schenck with Bachelor of Science Degrees in Accounting and Finance. She provides auditing, accounting, and a variety of tax preparation services to the firm’s clients. Wright named to Council on Banking Governor Jack Markell appointed Wright Stephen Wright to the Council on Banking. The Council consists of seven persons, each Continued on next page people From previous page of whom is appointed by the governor for a term of three years. The membership of the Council is politically balanced, as required by statute. The Council meets periodically during each year to consider matters relating to the administration of the banking laws and the strengthening and improving of community banks that operate within Delaware. The Council may study, research, plan and advise on matters to enable the Office of the State Bank Commissioner to function in the best possible manner. Schimkaitis named chairman of Chesapeake Utilities years of service as the non-employee Vice Chairman of the Board. His knowledge about the Company, its service territories and the utilities industry, as well as his business acumen and skills, has contributed to Chesapeake’s continued growth. Chesapeake Utilities Corporation, Dover, announced that its Board of Directors appointed John R. Schimkaitis to serve as Chairman of the Board, effective May 6. Schimkatis Schimkaitis has served as a director of the Company since 1996 and Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors since 2010. “I want to thank Ralph for all of his contributions and leadership and look forward to working with the Board, as well as with the management team to continue the strong growth and success of Chesapeake as we further expand the business in current and new territories,” said Schimkaitis. “It has been a privilege to serve as Chairman and I am proud to continue to serve on the board. Given the strength of our business and the significant opporWright began his career in the financial industry in tunities ahead of us, we are well positioned for con1995 after graduating from Bradley University in PeoIn recognition of his contributions over the past 50 tinued success,” added Adkins. ria, IL with a B.A. in International Business. years to the company, its employees, and the com“Ralph and John are exceptional directors who have munities it serves, the Board has designated Adkins as He joined CNB in October of 2010 where his rerepeatedly demonstrated their ability to lead and capisponsibilities include developing new business to in- Chairman Emeritus. The announcement follows the talize on opportunities that generate value for our succession plan for the board. crease commercial and residential loans and deposit shareholders,” said Michael P. McMasters, president relationships for the bank, primarily in Kent and Susand chief executive officer of Chesapeake Utilities Mr. Schimkaitis has 40 years of experience in the sex Counties. He also manages existing loan portfoCorporation. utilities industry, including 25 years in key managelios in the Delaware region. ment roles with Chesapeake as well as more than five He succeeds Ralph J. Adkins, who has served as Chairman of the Board since 1997. Adkins will continue to serve as a director on the company’s board. Calagione to kick off exhibit on history of brewing in state S peakers Sam Calagione and John Medkeff will introduce The Lewes Historical Society’s 2015 exhibit, “Brewing in Delaware & 20 Off-Centered Years of Dogfish Head Craft Brewery” on Friday, May 15, at 7 p.m. on the Rabbit’s Ferry Lawn at The Lewes Historical Society Campus at 110 Shipcarpenter Street, Lewes. In the case of poor weather, the presentation will be held at St. Peter’s Church Hall in Lewes. Calagione, founder & president of Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, will talk about getting Dogfish Head off the ground, some of the innovations that have taken place at the company, and the contemporary American Craft Beer scene. Calagione got the brewing bug back in the early 1990s while working at a bar in New York City that featured micro-brewed beer. After a number of homebrew batches, Sam put his English degree to the test while writing the brewpub business plan. Sam is the brainchild behind all the wacky things that happen at Dogfish Head. He’s often on the road promoting Dogfish Head through beer, song, dance and words. The Dogfish Inn opened in Lewes in the summer of 2014, a historical society release noted. John Medkeff, of Newark, DE., a Delaware beer historian, will preface Calagione’s talk and review the history of brewing in Delaware from the colonial era until 1955. Medkeff is the author of the forthcoming book “Brewing in Delaware” available in August 2015. U.S. Senator Thomas R. Carper is scheduled to appear and will offer remarks regarding the significance of brewing in Delaware. Calagione and Medkeff will present after the opening of The Lewes Historical Society’s 2015 exhibit, “History of Brewing in Delaware & 20 Off-Centered Years of Dogfish Head Craft Brewery,” to take place in the Ellegood House and Blacksmith Shop on The Lewes Historical Society’s Campus from 6 p.m.-7:00 p.m. Admission is free. “History of Brewing in Delaware & 20 Off-Centered Years of Dogfish Head” examines 400 years of brewing in Delaware. Brands like Diamond State dominated the local beer market for decades until Prohibition and then were able to survive until 1955 when the doors to the last commercial brewery closed. Dogfish later grew from the smallest commercial brewery in America at its opening in 1995 to an internationally recognized label. Following the opening on May 15, the exhibit will be open through October 3, 2015, Monday-Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free. business licenses Editor’s note: Business licenses are issued in Delaware as a revenue raising tool. Retail YOLO EXPRESS CORP YOLO EXPRESS 69 KENNARD DR NEWARK, DE 19711-2701 Contractor ADEOLU OMOLARA 66 GREENWAY SQ APT K22 DOVER, DE 19904-8298 ACE PROPERTY SOLUTIONS INC 425 HOPKINS BRIDGE RD NEWARK, DE 19711-2101 ABSOLUTE SYSTEMS ENGINEERING LLC 836 RITCHIE HWY STE 3 SEVERNA PARK, MD 21146-4133 ABSCOPE ENVIRONMENTAL, INC. 7086 COMMERCIAL DR CANASTOTA, NY 13032-4763 HUNTINGDON VY, PA 19006-7196 A.R.I LLC 141 COUNCIL CIR NEWARK, DE 19702-4167 A TOUCH OF COLOR 207 ORCHARD AVE DOVER, DE 19901-4447 AB SERVICES 38504 S HAMPTON DR FRANKFORD, DE 19945-4719 AARON WEINER CONSTRUCTION INC. 1510 BRYANT LANE JENKINTOWN PA. 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