DELAWARE BUSINESS July/August July Ju ly/A ly /Aug /A ugus ustt 20 2012 12 $ $3.00 3.0 00 0
Bon Appétit! 2012 20 2 012 12 R Restaurant Restaurant, estaurant, Meeting & Banquet G uiide Guide
PLUS: •
Guide to Vo-Tech Schools •
Guide to Insurance
A Publication of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce
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THE FASTER MONEY CAN GO AROUND THE WORLD, THE MORE YOU NEED A BANK
THAT’S ALWAYS BEEN RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER. A bank that knows you – and what matters to you. A bank that has people who can give you answers without passing you from one desk to another. That can make decisions right here. And a bank that keeps your money working for you in your community. Where can you find a bank like this? Just around the corner—at your nearest WSFS. Call us at 1-888-WSFSBANK or visit us online at wsfsbank.com.
©2012 Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB | Member FDIC
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Fritz Land and Chuck James admire the work of Mary Page Evans during an evening mixer at the Delaware Art Museum. PHOTO BY COLEEN HEAVER
Departments President’s Message .............................. 2 The DSCC’s legislative prowess. Legislative Priority .................................. 3 Local elections matter, too. Member News and Notes ...................... 5 DSCC partners with Google and the Plus-3 Network, DSU plots a charter high school, EDiS hosts students of its own, the governor talks educational successes, and we preview the next Superstars in Business event. Q&A: Culinary mastermind Dan Butler
In this Issue Features
Nonprofit Spotlight: The Salvation Army Business Spotlight: Parcels, Inc. Welcome New Members ...................... 16 Chamber Scene ..................................... 18
RESTAURANT, MEETING & BANQUET GUIDE ........................................................... 25 Your one-stop shop for places to eat, drink, rest your head or host a party.
Newsbites ............................................... 61
INSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES ................................................................. 47
Calendar ................................................. 63
Delaware Business peeks in on Kelly Benefit Strategies, the consultants that offer the ‘Total Benefits Solution.” BY EILEEN SMITH DALLABRIDA
Affiliates Update .................................... 65
GUIDE TO EDUCATION ............................................................................................. 53
Manufacturing........................................ 67
Soup’s on at New Castle County Vo-Techs, where culinary programs train the next generation of chefs, and a whole lot more. BY LARRY NAGENGAST
Chamber Committees .......................... 70 Chamber Member Benefits ................. 71 For Assistance, Contact the Chamber .......................................... 72
On The Cover The 2012 Restaurant, Meeting & Banquet Guide features The Buttery in Lewes. Photo by Tom Nutter DELAWARE BUSINESS
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Volume 17, Number 4 / 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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DELAWARE
Message from the President One of the biggest strengths of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce is its legislative prowess—our unique ability to spur actual change in Dover. With that in mind, we couldn’t be more pleased with Gov. Jack Markell’s deal with municipalities James A. Wolfe that will lower electric rates in order to foster more economic development. A memorandum of understanding was crafted between the state and town leaders that will provide local governments the opportunity to upgrade their electric utility systems, making them more efficient and cost effective. It’s been a longtime goal to lower Delaware’s utility rates, and the agreement will not only help our current businesses, but will also make Delaware more attractive to those businesses that might want to expand or locate new facilities in the region. Our vice president of government affairs, Rich Heffron, also led the charge in workers’ compensation reform. Despite a one-year average increase in workers’ compensation costs in 2011 (a result of increased accident filings in 2008-2009), overall since the inception of the updated workers’ compensation statue in 2008, costs have gone down 18 percent for the residual market and 22 percent for the voluntary market. First quarter projections for 2012 are for rates to begin dropping again. That adds up to cost reductions in five of the last six years. That’s a big deal. We’re also pleased to have another great Superstars in Education campaign in the books (pun intended). Though we’re sad to lose Education Secretary Lillian Lowery to Maryland, I think we gave her a proper sendoff during our awards dinner. Take a look at the pictures from that evening on page 56. We hope you enjoy the 2012 Restaurant, Meeting & Banquet Guide as much as our board members did. A few of them, including our chairman Bill Allan and our immediate past chairman Tommy Cooper, took the time to tell us about their favorite restaurants. The results of which can be found on page 25. The restaurant, hotel and hospitality industry make up a huge chunk of the retail sector. And in many ways, their health reflects the health of our economy. So do your part to support local business, and we’ll do the same. After all, it is summertime. Start your party here.
BUSINESS EDITORIAL STAFF William R. Allan Chairman
James A.Wolfe President/CEO
Matt Amis Managing Editor
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Sylvia Banks DuPont
Chip Rossi Bank of America
IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIRMAN
Ernie Dianastasis CAI
Richard D. Rowland Rowland, Johnson & Co., PA
Thomas J. Cooper Cooper Realty Associates
Donald T. Fulton George J. Weiner Associates
Dennis M. Salter Summit Realty Advisors, Inc.
CHAIR ELECT
Pierre du Pont Hayward University of Delaware
Fred C. Sears, II Delaware Community Foundation
Alan Levin Delaware Economic Development Office
Mark Turner WSFS Bank
CHAIRMAN
William R. Allan William Allan & Assoc., LLC
Hinton Lucas DuPont VICE CHAIR
Mark Stellini Virtual Resources
Michael S. Uffner AutoTeam Delaware
William E. Manning Saul Ewing LLP
TREASURER
Barry Crozier Belfint, Lyons & Shuman
Richelle Vible Catholic Charities of Delaware
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Linda Ammons Widener University School of Law
Tyrone Jones AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP
Chad Moore The Bellmoor
Julian H. Booker Delmarva Broadcasting Company
Chris Kenny ShopRites of Delaware
Bret Morris A.R. Morris Jewelers
David B. Brown Potter Anderson & Corroon, LLP
Bernhard Koch AAA Mid-Atlantic
Theodore J. Prushinski Citizens Bank
I.G. Burton i.g. Burton & Co., Inc.
Richard H. LaPenta Insurance & Financial Services, Ltd.
Michael Ratchford W.L. Gore & Associates, Inc.
Timothy J. Constantine Blue Cross Blue Shield of Delaware
Robert J. Laskowski M.D. Christiana Care Health Systems
John S. Riley Ashland, Inc.
Charlie Copeland Associates International, Inc.
Renee Lewandowski Agilent Technologies
E. Andrew DiSabatino EDiS Company
Michael MacFarlan TD Bank
Orlando J. George, Jr. Delaware Technical & Community College
Cathy MacFarlane ING DIRECT
W. Laird Stabler, III Laird Stabler & Associates, LLC Gary R. Stockbridge Delmarva Power Clinton Walker Barclaycard US
Martha S. Gilman Gilman Development Company
Scott Malfitano CSC - Corporation Service Company
Robert V.A. Harra, Jr. Wilmington Trust Company
Nicholas Marsini PNC Bank, Delaware
Robert W. Whetzel Richards, Layton & Finger
John E. Healy III Healy Long & Jevin, Inc.
John McCarthy AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP
Katie Wilkinson Fulton Bank
William S. Wallace JPMorgan Chase
Harry L. Williams Delaware State University
Michael Houghton Paul M. McConnell Morris, Nichols, Arsht & Tunnell, LLP McConnell Development, Inc.
STAFF James A.Wolfe President/CEO Marianne K. Antonini Senior Vice President A. Richard Heffron Senior Vice President Janine G. Sorbello Senior Vice President & Executive Director, The Partnership John H. Taylor, Jr. Senior Vice President & Executive Director, DPPI
Matt Amis Communications Manager Cheryl Corn Executive Assistant to the President Senior Vice President Communications Denee Crumrine Program & Communications Specialist Manager, Small Business Alliance Katie Dunn Communications & Events Associate Linda D. Eriksen Accounting Associate
Greg Gross Director of Government Relations Chuck James Account Executive Lisa Prickril Events Manager Arlene Simon Account Executive Bill Stephano Director of Membership Patrina Wallace Information Administrator
ADVERTISING SALES / Miller Publishing, Inc.
Fred Miller President
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
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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PHOTO BY DICK DUBROFF/FINAL FOCUS
LEGISLATIVE PRIORITY
This Year, Don’t Forget Local Officials on the Frontline BY RICH HEFFRON
IT’S A PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION YEAR, and most voters are just beginning to focus on the race between President Barack Obama and his Republican challenger, Gov. Mitt Romney.
The candidates for these and other local offices will not be determined until July 11, the day after the filing deadline. But the issues that all candidates should address are clear.
Turnout is always higher when Americans have the opportunity to choose the person who will lead their country for the next four years. Media attention and the excitement that it generates are primarily focused on national and statewide races for governors, and seats in the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. This is reflected by the quadrennial uptick in voter turnout. But too often overlooked are the races for important local government offices. Two particularly challenging races taking place this year are for New Castle County Executive and Mayor of Wilmington. Political scientists and experts argue that local officials hold greater influence on people’s lives because they make decisions that affect their constituents on a daily basis. In recent years, these New Castle elections have been decided in September primaries because of the growth of the Democratic Party in northern Delaware. That of course is subject to change, but so far it does not appear that the Republican or Independent candidates will be competitive at this stage of the 2012 election.
Public Safety People do not want to live, and businesses will not want to locate in areas where they do not feel safe. Illegal drug trade is indisputably tied to the public safety crisis in this country. New Castle County and Wilmington are not alone in trying to decide how best to address criminal activity, yet far too many crimes involving violence in our area are a product of substance abuse and the competition to profit by feeding people’s dependence. Local government is on the frontline in this battle, and yet there is no easy answer, no silver bullet. There are multiple means of addressing the problem—police enforcement policy, community involvement, alcohol and drug abuse treatment, job creation, youth programs, public education, job opportunities and training for former prisoners—and the list goes on. But the fact is that local government leaders must be willing to find creative means while working tirelessly to reduce crime if they expect their jurisdictions to grow economically and prosper.
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Legislative Priority Fiscal Stability Since the financial collapse of 2008, local governments have faced extremely difficult financial conditions. A sluggish upturn has made things marginally better, but it hasn’t provided a clear path to resolving the nagging budget dilemma. Until the housing market improves dramatically, providing New Castle County with increasing transfer tax receipts and a growing
The leaders of local jurisdictions are fortunate that they have a partner with state leaders who are focused on retaining, expanding and attracting employers who will provide jobs and revenue to state and local governments. property tax base, it will be necessary to carefully monitor spending while looking for potential new sources of revenue. Both are much easier said than done, especially in a time when the taxpayer wants his elected officials to hold the line on spending and taxes while providing the same level of service. The City of Wilmington has a similar problem when it comes to growing the tax base. The only way the city will accomplish this is through the expansion of business opportunities, which will provide an increase in property and wage tax receipts. It will also provide jobs for residents in the local jurisdiction with the state’s highest unemployment rate.
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Economic Development Some degree of economic growth has occurred in isolated locations such as the Christina Riverfront, the Route 301 corridor, and Smyrna. There are future bright spots to anticipate, like the former Chrysler Plant site in Newark, which is now owned by the University of Delaware. Though these are undoubtedly good signs, the struggle continues to keep ahead of those businesses that are cutting back on Delawarebased activities. Sustainable, controlled growth is an absolute necessity if economic conditions are going to improve at a healthy pace. The leaders of local jurisdictions are fortunate that they have a partner with state leaders who are focused on retaining, expanding and attracting employers who will provide jobs and revenue to state and local governments. All Delaware’s local government officials face some aspect of these issues every day. It is essential to address each of them, realizing that resolution is complex, and rarely comes easily. A wise person in the local business community realizes that each of these issues affect their success. Business leaders must offer their cooperation with whomever is elected, and public officials must be willing to approach businesses with ideas and concrete partnership plans. But first, our citizens must decide who they want to tackle these challenging jobs. July / Aug us t 2012
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Member
news&Notes Bridging the Gap DSU LEADERS PLOT STEM-FOCUSED CHARTER SCHOOL
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The concept of “Early College High Schools” has become popular throughout the country and for a good reason — they are helping to bridge the gap between high school and college among low-income and underserved populations. Research from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation shows that if you increase academic standards and rigor, and offer the added incentive of college credits (as Early College Charter Schools do), then students will perform better than those in traditional schools. Delaware State University caught wind of this national trend and began to develop a new charter school to be housed on the DSU campus. “It demystifies the college experience,” says Provost Alton Thompson, chair of the Founding Board of Directors for the new school, and the leader in its development. Their focus for the school is Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, otherwise known as STEM. “The STEM focus will allow us to parlay our university’s strengths into the early college school — these are the areas in which we are strongest as a university,” says Thompson. This school would be the first of its kind in Delaware. If it succeeds like the others around the country, it could mean increased opportunities for underprivileged and low-income students. Plus,
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BY STEPHANIE FITZPATRICK
students who attend could earn up to 60 college credits — which means a potential savings of 50 percent on college costs. This savings encourages students who wouldn’t have otherwise attended college to do so. “If we could get 50 percent of the students from this new school to attend Delaware State University, we will be delighted. If not, it’s still a greater contribution to the community,” says Thompson enthusiastically. To help ensure success of the project, DSU staff have partnered with a group named Innovative Schools, a Wilmington based nonprofit which has a proven record of establishing and developing charter schools. “They have been great to work with and have worked with other top performing schools,” says Thompson. “They will help to establish an infrastructure throughout the first five years.” Innovative Schools will also help them maintain compliance with state standards, find talented staff, and work on the entire portfolio of the school. This open access school will be marketed primarily to students who would be first generation college graduates and who have interest in STEM fields. While grades will not be considered, students will need to generate a letter of interest and sign a contract of behavior and expectations. If interest is
DSU Provost Alton Thompson says the planned STEM charter school could benefit low-income students. PHOTO BY ABBY SAYEG. high, they will also put a lottery system into place. Once approved by the State of Delaware in June, the school would primarily be funded publically and be open to all Delaware residents (at the time this article went to print, the approval was still pending). “Anyone is welcome who can get there, although we expect most of the students will be from the greater Kent County area,” says Thompson. Their target deadline for the school to open is the fall of 2013.
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news&Notes
The tradition known as EDiS Institute has helped galvanize interest from vo-tech students across Delaware. PHOTO COURTESY OF EDIS COMPANY.
Building the Future VO-TECH STUDENTS LEARN CONSTRUCTION AND COMMUNITY AT THE EDIS INSTITUTE BY KELLY MURRAY
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In April, hundreds of vocational education students joined engineers, architects and tradesmen in Wilmington’s Chase Center to discuss the future trends of the ever-evolving construction industry. What brought them together? EDiS Company’s innovative approach to education: the EDiS Institute.
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Established in 1998, EDiS Institute offers a pathway for vocational education students in Delaware to gain insight on the construction industry, examine its role in the economy, and learn about its impact on the environment. The event is put on every two years by the centuryold EDiS Company, and provides industry members and students a platform
to communicate with each other in a thought-provoking setting. “It was originally created as a way for us to celebrate the company’s anniversary and as a benefit for the community and the construction industry,” says Brian DiSabatino, president of EDiS Company. “The tradition has been bringing nationally known speakers to
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Since its inception, the EDiS Institute has raised $165,000 in donations, which have been used towards contributions to vocational education school districts in Delaware. speak and galvanize support for vo-tech education.” In the past, notable speakers have included Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., who spoke at the 2000 EDiS Institute about the construction industry’s role as environmental stewards. This year, the speakers included John Stapleford, director of the Caesar Rodney Institute’s Center for Economic Policy and Analysis; John Patterson, a best selling co-author and customer relations expert; and renowned architect Andres Duany, who spoke about the next generation of community planning. The half-day forum not only offers an educational outlet but maintains a philanthropic focus as well. Since its inception, the EDiS Institute has raised $165,000 in donations, which have been used towards contributions to vocational education school districts in Delaware. DiSabatino says that the Institute is important to EDiS because the company’s culture is innovative and community oriented. “Our community service success hinges on the next generation’s interest and willingness to enter into the fields of construction, engineering and architecture,” he says. “We want to inspire ninth to twelfth graders to love the industry as much as we do.”
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Party Down at Best of Delaware BY MATT AMIS Imagine a ballroom lined with rows of tasty cocktails, fun prizes and lots, and lots and lots of delicious food in every conceivable shape, size and flavor. Now, add in some rockin’ live music, a philanthropic mission, a swanky guest list and a circus performer or two. Is this beginning to sound like the coolest party around? Find out on your own when the mirthmakers at Delaware Today magazine kick off the next Best of Delaware Party later this month. The party, which commences at 6 p.m. on July 26th (a special VIP sneak-peak begins at 5 p.m.), will be held at Dover Downs Hotel and Casino. Best of Delaware has long been one of the most popular shindigs in the state, with an average attendance of 2,000 guests, and 100 exhibitors. The party goes hand-in-hand with the magazine’s annual Best Of issue, which recognizes excellence in Delaware dining, shopping, and much, much more. Exhibitors, which run the gamut from sushi makers to cake decorators, are all Best of Delaware winners, and represent the finest in Delaware. “All of Delaware’s best in one room, and all for a great cause, what could be better?” says Robert Martinelli, president and CEO of Today Media, Inc. This year, funds from the party will go toward Nemours/Alfred i. duPont Hospital for Children, Delaware Guidance Services for Children and Youth, Inc., and Girl Scouts of the Chesapeake Bay. Jellyroll, one of the region’s preeminent party bands, is booked once again as the house band for the evening, and a shuttle service (included with admission) will be transporting guests to and from Aldersgate United Methodist Church in North Wilmington, and the 273 Park-and-Ride near Bear. Tickets cost $75 for VIP access, and $55 for general admission. Visit www.BestofDE.com for more information.
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Member
news&Notes The Most Super Time of the Year 2012 SUPERSTARS IN BUSINESS
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The time is here – this could be your year! The 2012 Marvin S. Gilman Superstars in Business Awards are back. Join the ranks of past Superstars by applying your small business or nonprofit for this prestigious award. The Marvin S. Gilman Superstars in Business Award, named for one of Delaware’s leading small business entrepreneurs, honors businesses and nonprofit organizations for their outstanding achievements and model approaches to business and management. Over 50 worthy companies have achieved Superstar status. To be among them this year, apply now using the form on page 35 or at ssb.dscc.com. Awards of Excellence are also given to companies who show great potential as future winners.
Requirements for application: • Must be a member in good standing of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce
BY DENEE CRUMRINE
• Must be in business for at least three years • Small businesses are defined as being between one and 150 full-time employees • Application must be submitted no later than August 24, 2012
Luncheon and Keynote Speaker Please save the date for the 14th Annual Marvin S. Gilman Superstars in Business Awards Luncheon on November 14, 2012. Keynote speaker Dan Butler, owner and chef of several popular Delaware restaurants, will speak to the struggles brought on by the economic downturn and how he survived them, using social media to build relationships, and how he has grown his businesses. Read a brief Q&A with him on page 12 and more on our blog: dscc. wordpress.com. To register, apply, sponsor or advertise, visit www.dscc.com/superstarsin business or call (302) 576-6564.
“It was wonderful to receive recognition for the success and business culture we have created. Everyone in the Alliance family was very proud of the award. For companies in Delaware, the Marvin S. Gilman Superstars in Business Award is truly an honor that cannot be understated.” — Mike Vanderslice, Director of Sales & Marketing, Environmental Alliance 2012 Superstars in Business Award Winner “Sunday Breakfast Mission applied to Superstars in Business because to be recognized by the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business Alliance is a reflection of superior non-profit business practices and the accompanying results. To be honored with such an award will only add to the credibility of the work we are doing.” — J Morgner, Mission Advancement Manager, Sunday Breakfast Mission 2012 Award of Excellence Winner
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Superstars in Business winners in 2011 included (from top) Environmental Alliance, Inc., EDiS Company, The Ministry of Caring, Inc., and Corexcel. PHOTOS BY TOM NUTTER.
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news&Notes Net Gains PLUS 3 NETWORK HELPS USERS GET IN GEAR BY MATT AMIS
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At the DSCC’s April 18 Wellness@Work Conference, keynote speakers Bruce Panasuk and Jason Danner yielded the floor to a wiry man from California named Rick Sutton. Sutton, a former sports marketing guru, is today the co-founder and CEO of the Plus 3 Network, an innovative online platform that allows users to log physical activity for personal rewards, to compete in various contests, and move money to nonprofit organizations via Plus 3 Sponsors. The Plus 3 Network fueled a fitness challenge between DSCC employees and their Wellness@Work partners, Kelly Benefit Strategies. The site–which counts about 32,000 users–is equal parts fitness log, social media platform, and fundraising bean counter, which, when used in combination, can work wonders. The more you exercise, the more funds are raised for charity. “There are a lot of different ways people are motivated,” Sutton says. “And the ability to use community, charity, family and additional motivators to get people to participate is great for us. I think we’ve all seen it in the marketplace, whether it’s a three-day cancer walk or a MS ride where you have to
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Plus 3 Network founder Rick Sutton (left) and business account manager David Monico say their site motivates users to exercise while raising money for charity. PHOTO COURTESY OF RICK SUTTON
raise money from your friends. They get amped up because it’s not about them, it’s about making the world a better place.” With Plus 3, every step, every hour in the gym, every stroke in the pool is transformed into “Kudos”–a points system that gets converted into charitable dollars for a cause of the user’s choice. Values are placed on an activity
based on either distance covered (like miles during a run), or time logged (like hours of yoga). There are close to 80 different sports and activities that comprise the system, and each one pays out kudos at a different rate. Users can even sync a GPS, or a GPS-enabled smart phone to log precise data. Sutton, an avid cyclist and athlete, says the site targets the less-athletically inclined with its motivational tools. “We really wanted to nurture people through a system that is inviting friends and family to do what they like at the pace they like to do it. And if you just get out there, it’s really simple, you can be a hero.” For more, visit www.plus3network. com.
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SAVE THE DATE! JULY 26 Best of Delaware returns to Dover Downs Hotel & Casino®
For targeted advertising and event sponsorship opportunities, contact:
(302) 504-1326 • sales@delawaretoday.com
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Member
news&Notes The Butler Did It A Q&A WITH CULINARY MASTERMIND DAN BUTLER
BY KATIE DUNN
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Dan Butler, known around Delaware as Big Chef Guy, has mastered the art of keeping things fresh in his restaurants. From Piccolina Toscana to Deep Blue, Butler knows first-class food and first-rate business. In fact, he will be the keynote speaker at the 2012 Superstars in Business Awards Luncheon on November 14. Delaware Business took a trip to the Trolley Square favorite to gain a little insight behind Butler’s success.
How did you get started in the restaurant business? Well, as a high school student I was a dishwasher at the Hotel du Pont. Even as a high school student, I knew that this was the best place around and the most logical choice to work for somebody who was going to pursue this type of a career. As opposed to looking for a job as a fry cook, which I could have easily gotten. When you’re a young kid like that it’s important to work in places that take these things seriously. I say now that I was very smart about that! The people there are very professional. Even today if you want to concentrate on becoming a chef, look to the Hotel du Pont. As a kid, your first instinct is not to work hard. Being a chef is hard, physical work and you have to know that at an early age. I worked for a lot of people I had great respect for there. From there I went to the Culinary Institute of America under the advice of my executive chef at the
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time. Then I got experience in a lot of different places. In this profession, it’s not an uncommon thing to get what you can out of each job.
What would you say your business philosophy is? My personal philosophy may differ from others, and I can’t discount it, where an important aspect is being consistent. People know what to expect from these kinds of restaurants. I think consistency is certainly important as far as quality and experience goes, but when you’re in a position where what you’re selling is a new experience; things have to be new every now and then. We do want people to come in every week and we need to keep it fresh for them. That’s true of Toscana, but it’s funny about Deep Blue because the clientele there is much less local. There are more business people and travelers who know what to expect. We certainly try new things with the menu, but as far as the décor and the experience goes, we have to keep that consistent. When people are corporate entertaining they want to know that this is going to be good and dependable. I do own restaurants but how I make
Dan Butler, the man behind Piccolina Toscana, Deep Blue, Brandywine Prime and others, will keynote the 2012 Superstars in Business Luncheon on November 14. PHOTO BY COLEEN HEAVER
my trade is a cook. I don’t think of myself differently than any of my cooks. I hope to think that it translates to the people who work for me. I treat everyone as a professional, including servers, managers, bar tenders. I get why people don’t have these jobs as a long term career, but it is a profession. One of the most important aspects in creating a positive guest experience is creating a positive employee environment. I like to say we take our jobs very seriously, but not ourselves very seriously. That has served me well to this day.
What has been an obstacle for you in opening and running a restaurant? Opening my restaurants was not very difficult and I attribute that to being
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very lucky and working very hard. One definite challenge is to not become complacent. We’re here everyday but you have to remember that the customer is not. They can make a judgment about their experience from the one time that they’re here. The customer doesn’t know what you did yesterday or that there is a dishwasher out today. And they shouldn’t know. It’s a challenge to make sure things are fresh for every customer experience.
for one second it is anything like what you see on television. It can capture the pressure, and sometimes you are running off of that adrenaline. But the hours? The hours you have to put in to this are brutal. Be prepared to work very hard. It is tremendously rewarding though. My kitchens are open kitchens, when possible. I want to be part of the buzz and also want people to come up to me and say “Chef that was amazing.” That, for me, makes the whole thing worthwhile.
What advice would you give to someone opening a restaurant?
How do you utilize social media?
I would say to anyone wanting to open or even work in a restaurant, don’t think
I see social media as something for the restaurant, a way to make personal rela-
tionships with customers. Personal relationships are very important to me. That is what drives the whole thing. I think a lot of my success has to do with very individual, very personal relationships. Social media is just another tool in creating relationships.
What do you like to do for fun? I have a seven and a four year old, so when I have free time I do spend it with my kids. But I am a cyclist, I love to ride. Deep Blue has a riding club and we meet once a week in the Toscana parking lot. I would venture to say it is the biggest organized ride in the area.
DSCC Partners with Google to Drive Businesses Online BY DENEE CRUMRINE On a sunny day in April, the Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts underwent a Google transformation. Green, red, yellow and blue ran rampant throughout the building, which was marked with the iconic Google Places pin. The Delaware State Chamber of Commerce was thrilled to be a part of this movement – “Get Your Business Online.” Google has been traveling the country, hosting free events and getting small businesses set up with free websites. “Build Your Free Website” was one of three sessions at this day-long event. The other two included “Grow your Business Online” and “Promote Your Business Online.” Altogether, they comprised a comprehensive and user-friendly experience for small business people. After creating their free website, or if they already had one, attendees moved to the Grow session where they learned how Google took over the Wilmington Riverfront in April. PHOTO BY DENEE CRUMRINE Google search actually works, got an introduction to search engine optimization and received tips for promoting their website. A short introduction to search engine marketing was also given. “Promote Your Business” encouraged website owners to utilize the tools offered by Google, and explained AdWords and AdWords Express. It was an informative overview of advertising on Google and building ads that actually work. Our communications staff had a blast at this event, which was a great resource for our small business members. We thank the DCCA, Aloysius Butler & Clark, and Google for an awesome event filled with extremely valuable information, and for making sure we were a part of the big day.
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Member
news&Notes
Parcels Inc. helps keep Wilmington businesses booming. PHOTO BY NICK WALLACE
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
››
Parcels, Inc.
To maintain a successful business for more than 30 years, the name of the game is evolution. Parcels, Inc. is a model of evolution. Incorporated in 1980, the company opened as a courier service. As the fax machine—remember that?—became popular, naysayers suggested couriers would become obsolete. But Parcels is still going strong in the age of electronic information. “Our courier volume hasn’t gone down at all,” says Vito DiMaio, executive vice president of Parcels, Inc. Instead, the company has taken on a host of new services to grow the company. Parcels currently employs 140 people. Parcels, Inc. is owned by Jim and
14
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BY APRIL HALL
Maureen Johnson, who started the business to serve primarily Wilmington law firms. As the face of Wilmington has changed, Parcels extended its services to banks, hotels and other businesses. At the Delaware College of Art and Design, Parcels even helps students print and finish their final projects in the spring. Parcels is known as “the secret army” of the Wilmington—its uniformed employees rove the city’s busy streets during the work week delivering documents and packages to offices. But the company’s evolution has come to include electronic document management and printing. “Our services generally facilitate the
movement of information,” DiMaio says. “And it’s all about speed and doing things efficiently.” Whether it’s printing banners for a business or setting up electronic documents for a visiting legal team, Parcels does a lot of work on a rush basis. This company cannot sum up what it offers in the classic “elevator pitch.” “We have more than 100 services we offer,” DiMaio says. “What we tell our customers and those considering becoming a customer is if you have a need, please give us a call. If we can’t fill that need, we can certainly give you a good direction. We really try to be that one-stop shop.”
July / Aug us t 2012
| DELAWARE BUSINESS
6/19/12 3:39 PM
Major Philip DeMichael (left) keeps hope alive at the Salvation Army. PHOTO BY NICK WALLACE
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT
››
Salvation Army
People tend to think about the Salvation Army during the holidays, when the organization’s redsmocked volunteers ring bells around the red bucket at the grocery store and the mall. But others think about the charity all year long–especially now. Providing everything from childcare to senior care to help for the homeless has become more challenging as families struggle to make ends meet. Major Philip DeMichael, Delaware regional coordinator for the Salvation Army, says contributions have taken a hit since the recession gripped the nation. “The money has gone down,” DeMichael says, “but we are still able
DELAWARE BUSINESS
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BY APRIL HALL
to put nine cents of every dime donated to the Salvation Army directly into our programs.” The nonprofit had its first meeting in Delaware in 1890 on Wilmington’s Market Street. Over the following 120 years, the Salvation Army expanded to serve the unique needs of Kent and Sussex counties. “I would say New Castle County, being the largest county and largest population, has the largest need,” DeMichael says. “The need we see here is for youth, to keep them off the street.” He says the goal of the teen program is to keep kids involved in the youth center until 9 p.m. every night. There are also waiting lists at their
homeless shelter and for their daycare programs, says DeMichael, a 45-year veteran of the nonprofit who will retire in June. Programs in New Castle County alone run on a $5 million budget each year, he says. “We never have turned away people, we never will,” DeMichael says. “It is not an organization that is open from 9 to 5. We want to be that agency that is here for the community, the one that can still give help to that person who needs it.” And for that, DeMichael believes the funding will always come through. “Maybe it’s because we’re a faithbased organization,” he says, “but we believe that what we need will come from above.”
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6/19/12 3:39 PM
WELCOME New Members 7P’S
ALPFA is the premier business organiza-
HODGSON VO-TECH HIGH SCHOOL
Mr. Christopher Wood 11 Graham Court Newark, DE 19711 (302) 373-1645 Fax: (302) 266-0216 www.7psit.com
tion for expanding opportunities for Latino
ties, adds value, and builds relationships
Ms. Annemarie Linden 2575 Glasgow Avenue Newark, DE 19702 (302) 834-0100 Fax: (302) 834-0598 www.nccvotech.com
IT services are a much needed part of an
for its members, the community and its
Hodgson Vo-Tech promotes a school-wide
organization’s daily well-being. 7P’s service
business partners while expanding Latino
effort to have all students comprehend and
motto is “Fix it right the first time.” Their IT
and diverse leadership in the global work-
apply content as indicated by performance
services will fix it the first time and get your
force.
on career program certifications as well
Leadership in the global market. ALPFA Delaware is an emerging chapter with a membership base of over 100 active members. Its mission creates opportuni-
business back running on all cylinders.
AFLAC WILMINGTON Mr. Ford Downes 1705 Talley Road Wilmington, DE 19803 (302) 377-3459 Fax: (302) 762-1979 www.aflac.com
as state and district assessments. Its mis-
ASSURANCE MEDIA, LLC
sion is to prepare students vocationally and
Mr. Joe Mirolli 590 Century Boulevard, Suite B Wilmington, DE 19808 (302) 892-3540 www.assurancemedia.net
academically to be productive, employable
With multimedia technology integration
HOWARD HIGH SCHOOL OF TECHNOLOGY
through the use of structured cabling,
citizens of society by integrating high quality instruction and technology in a safe, caring, and cooperative school environment.
The largest provider of supplemental insur-
Assurance Media ensures that your entire
ance in the United States, Aflac has been
infrastructure benefits from the speed and
chosen by more than 50 million people
flexibility of IP technology. By utilizing one
worldwide because of its commitment to
vendor for all your voice, data, video and
providing customers with the confidence
CCTV cabling needs, you save money, time
Dr. Stan Spoor 401 East 12th Street Wilmington, DE 19801 (302) 571-5412 Fax: (302) 571-5843 www.nccvotech.com
that comes from knowing they have assis-
and worry.
Howard High School of Technology is a
tance in being prepared for whatever life may bring.
ALPFA/ASSOCIATION OF LATINOS IN PROFESSIONS OF FINANCE AND ACCOUNTING Mr. Brandon R. Blitman 801 S. Grand Avenue, Suite 650 Los Angeles, CA 90017 (302) 634-4697 www.alpfadelaware.org 16
DB_JulyAug12.indd A16
comprehensive vocational-technical high
EXPRESS EMPLOYMENT PROFESSIONALS
school with approximately 860 students in
Mr. David Rodier 2 Penns Way, Suite 205 New Castle, DE 19720 (302) 324-0140 Fax: (302) 324-1173 www.expresspersonnel.com
grades 9 through 12. Students from across
We help businesses achieve their goals
Graduates earn both a high school diploma
by providing cost-effective employment
and a certificate of competency in one of
solutions.
the 13 programs.
New Castle County, Delaware (covering five different school districts) are eligible to apply for admission. In addition to a full academic curriculum, the school offers 13 different career programs of study.
July / Aug us t 2012
| DELAWARE BUSINESS
6/19/12 3:40 PM
HSA BANK Ms. Donna Woe Woerner Street, Suite 320 605 North 8th S Sheboygan, WI 53081 (201) 306-1209 www.hsabank.com www.hsabank.c
Middletown, DE 19709 (302) 449-3609 Fax: (302) 376-6796 www.nccvotech.com
(302) 357-3256 Fax: (302) 357-3276 www.wtplaw.com
St. Georges Technical High School, a 1,000-
Taylor & Preston for trusted representation
Since 1933, clients have come to Whiteford,
pupil facility for grades 9 to 12, is one of
and guidance on issues critical to achieving
HSA Bank is a M Milwaukee-based company
four comprehensive vo-tech high schools
their business goals. With more than 160
nation’s leading Health and one of the na
administered by the New Castle County
attorneys, Whiteford, Taylor & Preston is
Savings Account (HSA) administrators.
Vocational Technical School District. St
one of the region’s largest law firms. Clients
than 300,000 accountholders It serves more th
Georges offers comprehensive high school
range from Fortune 500 companies to small
billion dollars in HSA assets. with nearly a billi
academic curricula and career and technical
businesses to start-up enterprises. The firm
focuses solely on the adminThe company foc
training in the areas of information technol-
helps clients arrange financial transactions,
istration, service and support of our HSA
ogy, construction trades, health care ser-
mergers and acquisitions, and public offer-
product. Its philosophy is to do what we
vices, public and consumer services, and
ings. The firm advises companies and orga-
do best and partner with others who do the
science, energy and drafting technologies.
nizations of all size on tax, employment, and real estate matters.
same to provide a best-of-breed solution.
TOP QUALITY INDUSTRIAL FINISHERS, INC. MODERN WATER, INC.
THE WHITING-TURNER CONTRACTING COMPANY
Mr. Michael Jones 15 Reads Way, Suite 100 (302) 669-6901 Fax: (877) 663-3944 www.modernwater.com
Mr. Eddie Camacho 1204 East 12th Street Wilmington, DE 19802 (302) 778-5005 Fax: (302) 778-5006 www.topqualityfinishers.com
Modern Water Group is a leading provider
From industrial spray painting, to powder
of patented water technologies. Led by an
coating, and soon to include chemical
Mr. Joshua George 131 Continental Drive, Suite 404 Newark, DE 19713 (302) 292-0676 Fax: (302) 292-0683 www.whiting-turner.com
experienced management team, we have
film and resin coating, Top Quality has the
The mission of Whiting-Turner is to build on
global reach with operations in the Middle
expertise and experience to get the job
its reputation for integrity, excellence, expe-
East, Europe, South Africa, China, USA
done quickly, correctly and on-budget.
rience and leadership as the nation’s finest
and the UK. In all our markets and across
construction organization by continuously
our suite of technologies, sustainability and
UNIQUE IMAGE
improving the quality of work and services;
environmental responsibility are at the heart
Mr. Jamie Nolte 306 North Maryland Avenue Wilmington, DE 19804 (302) 658-2266 Fax: (302) 658-5864 www.uniquetees.net
constantly striving to exceed each client’s
of what we do.
MPS TRANSPORTATION INC. Mr. Derek Stanford 220 West 35th Street New Castle, DE 19802 (302) 709-1679 Fax: (302) 371-9860 www.MPSTransportation.com
expectations; maintaining dedication to the highest moral principles; providing its people with a challenging, secure and safe environment in which to achieve personal career goals.
Unique Image has been a supplier of custom textile and promotional products since
WILMINGTON DE JOB CORPS
1979. It carries all types of wearables, includ-
MPS provides non-emergency transporta-
sweatpants, hats, jackets, polos, button ups
tion for individuals and groups needing one
and so much more. Promotional products
way and round trip transportation to medical
and advertising specialties are also available,
facilities, private residences, airport shuttling,
from custom clocks, pens, can coozies, key
Ms. Rhonda Austin 9 Vandever Avenue Wilmington, DE 19802 (302) 230-2531 Fax: (302) 575-1713 www.jobcorps.org
shopping and much more. Its aim is to deliver
chains, bottle openers, flash lights, umbrellas,
Job Corps is a free education and training
quality transportation service to customers.
and any other item that you can think of.
program that helps young people learn a
ing but not limited to t-shirts, sweatshirts,
The company values transporting its customers to and from their destinations safely.
ST. GEORGES TECHNICAL HIGH SCHOOL Ms. Terri Villa 555 Hyett’s Corner Road DELAWARE BUSINESS
DB_JulyAug12.indd A17
| Ju l y / Au gu st 2012
career, earn a high school diploma or GED,
WHITEFORD, TAYLOR & PRESTON, LLC
and find and keep a good job. For eligible
Ms. Vicki L. Shoemaker Esq. Renaissance Centre, 405 North King Street, Suite 500 Wilmington, DE 19801
young people at least 16 years of age that qualify as low income, Job Corps provides the all-around skills needed to succeed in a career and in life. 17
6/19/12 3:40 PM
1.
3.
State Chamber SCENE 2.
1. Sec. Alan Levin from DEDO gave an update on the state of business in Delaware to a packed room at the Wilmington Club. Photo by Nick Wallace.
2. Rich Heffron from the State Chamber and Scott Malfitano from CSC Corporation Services Company were among the guests at April’s Legislative Forum. Photo by Nick Wallace.
3. Kaitlin Donovan and Mary O’Brien from KForce Professional Staffing talk with David Bart from ARS Fleet Service at the Blue Rocks Networking Breakfast. Photo by Colleen Heaver.
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6/19/12 3:40 PM
4. 4. Jared Forma from the Blue Rocks crew gives a behind-thescenes tour to attendees. Photo by Colleen Heaver.
5.
5. Chamber members gathered at the Delaware Art Museum for a delightful evening mixer. Photo by Colleen Heaver.
6. Daniel Rice, executive director of the Museum, gave attendees a tour of the exquisite Mary Page exhibit. Photo by Colleen Heaver.
6.
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State Chamber SCENE 7.
8.
9.
7. Sec. Shaileen Bhatt from the Dept. of Transportation addressed an intimate room with some department updates. Photo by Nick Wallace.
8. David Small, deputy secretary for the Dept. of Natural Resources, gave an overview of the progress they have made and what is in the future for DNREC.
9. The 2012 Wellness@Work conference was a huge success thanks to our speakers Dr. Bruce Panasuk and Jason Danner. Pictured here with DSCC President Jim Wolfe and special guest, Rick Sutton. Photo by Denee Crumrine.
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10. 10. Wellness@Work attendees networking among exhibitors at the Medical Society of Delaware. Photo by Nick Wallace.
11. Dr. Bruce Panasuk had people inspired to focus more on their health and wellbeing! Photo by Nick Wallace.
11.
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State Chamber SCENE 12. 12. Lisa, Katie and Denee represented the Chamber as partners in the Delaware Get Your Business Online event presented by Google.
13. A group of Young Executives volunteered with New Castle County Habitat for Humanity for some community outreach. Photo by Colleen Heaver.
13.
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14. 14. Bob Madison and Nancy Solero from engage3SIXTY presented the latest Small Business Alliance Workshop, Social Media and Reputation Management: 10 Steps to Getting it Right. Photo by Nick Wallace.
15. After an afternoon on the green, these gentlemen enjoy a lovely evening mixer at Frog Hollow Golf Club. Photo by Nick Wallace.
15.
16.
16. Carol Ammon, founder and former CEO of Endo Pharmaceuticals, was a remarkable speaker for the latest Leadership Breakfast at the beautiful Winterthur Museum and Gardens. Photo by Nick Wallace.
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2012 Restaurant, Meeting & Banquet Guide The Delaware State Chamber of Commerce’s Restaurant, Meeting & Banquet Guide is a one-stop resource for planning your next event. This guide is also available on www.dscc.com. DELAWARE BUSINESS
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Restaurant, Meeting & Banquet Guide HOTELS NEW CASTLE COUNTY
Crowne Plaza | Wilmington – North
Ballroom is the ideal setting for
Website: www.udel.edu/hotel Working with the School of Hotel,
630 Naamans Road, Claymont
ness meetings for up to 700
Restaurant, and Institutional
Contact: Courtney Alleman
guests. The Crowne Plaza hotel
Best Western Brandywine Valley
Management and University of
Phone: (302) 791-4611
has two executive floors with pri-
Delaware Conference Services,
Fax: (302) 798-6182
vate lounge, complimentary high
1807 Concord Pike, Wilmington
the Courtyard by Marriott is the
Email: Courtney.Alleman@
speed wireless internet, 24-hour
Contact: Mary Taylor
ideal environment to discover,
CPwilmingtonnorth.com
fitness center, business center
Phone: (302) 658-4531
experience and enjoy welcoming
Website: www.cpwilmingtonnorth.com
and outdoor pool.
Fax: (302) 656-8564
accommodations. The hotel’s
The Crowne Plaza - Wilmington
Email: manager@brandywineinn.com
126 guest rooms, with compli-
North is only minutes from
Days Inn
Website: www.brandywineinn.com
mentary high-speed Internet,
Wilmington-area corporations
900 Churchman’s Road, Newark
Best Western Brandywine Valley
can serve as a group headquar-
including DuPont, AstraZeneca,
Contact: Anupe Patel
provides outstanding hotel
ters. Working cooperatively with
Accenture, Evraz, AIG, IBM and
Phone: (302) 368-2400
accommodations, state-of-the art
other first-class Newark-area
many others. While staying in the
Fax: (302) 731-8620
video conferencing, an executive
hotels, the hotel can provide
Crowne Plaza hotel in the pic-
Email: daysinndos@yahoo.com
meeting center and more. Expect
up to 700 group rooms for your
turesque Brandywine Valley, visit
Website: www.daysinn.com
the highest degree of hospital-
event. The adjoining Clayton
Longwood Gardens, Harrah’s
The newly-renovated, three-story
ity and service for your business
Hall Conference Center’s 40,000
Chester Casino and Racetrack,
property is conveniently located
needs. Also, State Chamber
square feet of meeting space
Winterthur Museum, QVC, and
off I-95 at exit 4B. Complimentary
members will receive a 15 per-
includes 21 meeting rooms
Brandywine River Museum—all a
continental breakfast available
cent discount.
and a 500 seat auditorium. A
short distance away. Easy access
and in-room coffee makers are
7,000-square-foot ballroom
to Philadelphia Sports Complex,
offered. Several restaurants are
Courtyard by Marriott Newark – University of Delaware
accommodates 500 banquet-
including Citizens Bank Park,
within walking distance. An on-
style or 450 classroom-style.
Wells Fargo Center and Lincoln
site classroom seats up to 50
400 Pencader Way, Newark
Additional services include video
Financial Field. The Crowne
people.
Contact: Bill Sullivan
conferencing, high-speed Internet
Plaza - Wilmington North features
Phone: (302) 391-2261
access and exhibit capabilities.
12,000 square feet of flexible
Days Inn-Wilmington
meeting space, and the Grand
5209 Concord Pike, Wilmington
Fax: (302) 737-0990
Email: billsull@udel.edu
weddings, social events or busi-
Contact: Pearson L. Williams Phone: (302) 478-0300 Fax: (302) 478-2401 Email: daysinnwilm@comcast.net Website: www.mydaysinn wilmington.com Days Inn Wilmington is located in the heart of the Brandywine Valley, near all area attractions. There are 96 spacious rooms with a microwave, refrigerator and high-speed Internet. Rooms include a complimentary continental breakfast with a hot waffle bar.
Doubletree Downtown Wilmington 700 N. King Street, Wilmington Contact: Eric Chapman
Crowne Plaza | Wilmington – North
Phone: (302) 661-4316 Fax: (302) 429-5979 Email: eric.chapman3@hilton.com
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6/19/12 3:41 PM
Be a meetings hero.
Sheraton Suites Wilmington
Website: www.wilmingtondowntown./
Phone: (302) 368-8521
doubletree.com
Fax: (302) 368-9868
Their Grand Ballroom is the largest
Email: hojonewarkdos@yahoo.com
in downtown Wilmington accom-
Website: www.hojonewark.com
modates banquets, wedding
The newly-renovated Howard
receptions, corporate functions,
Johnson Inn & Suites furnishes
and social occasions with style.
four different banquet rooms for its guests. The Garden Room is
Doubletree Hotel – Wilmington
cozy for up to 20 people. The
4727 Concord Pike, Wilmington
Iron Hill Room is perfect for
Contact: Danielle Hennessy
meetings of up to 30 people.
Phone: (302) 478-6000
The Constitution and Polly
Fax: (302) 478-6049
Drummond Rooms seat up to 50
Email: Danielle.hennessy@hilton.com
people each or 100 when com-
Website: www.doubletree
bined. All of the rooms are quaint
wilmington.com
and inexpensive. Meeting room
More than 11,000 square feet
discounts are available to guests
of meeting and function space
of the hotel.
on two levels makes Doubletree Wilmington ideal for any size
Sheraton Suites Wilmington
group. The Concord Ballroom can
422 Delaware Avenue, Wilmington
accommodate up to 350 guests
Contact: Sales Department
for banquet seating and 600
Phone: (302) 576-8000
for a reception. The Canterbury
Fax: (302) 576-8010
Ballroom can hold up to 300 for a
Website: www.sheraton.com/
reception or up to 200 for banquet
suiteswilmington
seating. Eight breakout rooms will
This all-suite upscale hotel is
accommodate up to 50 people.
conveniently located in down-
Doubletree Wilmington’s expert
town Wilmington. Facilities
planning and catering staff can
include a restaurant, bar, gift
customize menus and special
shop, business center, indoor
touches to make every occasion
pool and sauna, fitness center
successfully memorable.
and Club Suites. Flexible meeting
Greater Wilmington Convention & Visitors Bureau Attention meeting planners, businesses and organizations; for more than 30 years the Greater Wilmington Convention & Visitors Bureau has served as the only destination marketing organization for New Castle County. We are your resource. We are your partner. And we are here to provide you with outstanding support services that will make your next corporate meeting, event, retreat, or team building exercise a resounding success. Assistance with venue selection, rates and dates Access to support services from catering to entertainment Incentive programs available No detail is too small
Contact us when planning your next event.
space is perfect for both corpo-
Howard Johnson Inn & Suites
rate meetings and social events.
1119 S. College Avenue, Newark
A state-of-the-art Legal Center is
VisitWilmingtonDE.com/Meet
Contact: Kirsten Bradley
available for trial teams and high-
Contact a meeting and event specialist today at 1.800.489.6664
DELAWARE BUSINESS
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Restaurant, Meeting & Banquet Guide speed Internet access is available
is the ultimate setting for your
in all suites and meeting rooms.
next meeting, wedding reception, social gathering and spe-
Hotel du Pont
cial event. From initial planning
11th and Market Streets, Wilmington
through execution, we manage
Contact: The Sales Office
the details of your event and
Phone: (302) 594-3100 or (800) 441-
confidently deliver excellence
9019
every step of the way. Our ball-
Fax: (302) 594-3108
room and well-appointed board-
Website: www.hoteldupont.com
rooms, elegant hospitality suites,
Noted for its European distinc-
and private dining areas in our
tion, the Hotel du Pont contains
restaurants provide a complete
217 guest rooms and several
array of flexible meeting space to
first-rate restaurants, as well as
accommodate 30-1,500 guests.
30 conference rooms with more
More than 35,000 square feet of
Internet, onsite AV capabilities
Contact: Linda Graves-Crocker
than 30,000 square feet of avail-
distinctive function space
and Business Center.
Phone: (302) 677-0777
able meeting space. There are
includes the Rollins CenterÂŽ, an
two self-contained conference
18,000 square feet, column-free
Hampton Inn-Dover
Email: Jennifer.Coverdale@marriott.com
areas, each with its own individ-
ballroom with 22-foot ceiling,
1568 N. DuPont Highway, Dover
Website: www.marriott.com/default.mi
ual style: the traditional Executive
sub-dividable into three sound-
Contact: Cindy Price
When every detail must be
Conference Center with five
proof sections. Six meeting
Phone: (302) 736-3500
perfect, guests can count on
dark-paneled rooms (one seat-
rooms include a ballroom and
Fax: (302) 736-6402
Residence Inn’s advanced facili-
ing up to 60) and the Conference
breakout rooms for up to 150
Website: www.hamptoninn.hilton.com
ties and expert meeting profes-
Center, more contemporary
guests. Three hospitality suites
in feeling, with 11 rooms, the
feature racetrack views. Meeting
Residence Inn by Marriott Dover
and successful outcome. Two
largest holding 120. Both have
amenities include wireless
600 Jeffric Boulevard., Dover
meeting rooms, 697 square feet
The Bellmoor Inn & Spa
Fax: (302) 672-8017
sionals to deliver a productive
their own registration and dining areas. The French neo-classic Gold Ballroom will hold groups up to 500. The Business Center provides any needed printing and faxing. All guest rooms have four telephones and dual phone lines. The Hotel du Pont also offers amenities such as 24-hour room service, complimentary shoe shines and concierge service.
HOTELS KENT COUNTY Dover Downs Hotel & Casino 1131 N. DuPont Highway, Dover Contact: Ann Stack Phone: (800) 711-5882
DSCC Chairman Bill Allan and wife Jeanne love BIG FISH GRILL (720 S. Justison St., Wilmington,
Email: casinopromotions@dover
(302) 652-3474, www.bigfishgrill.com, contact: Angela Hasting), a casual seafood and steak restau-
downs.com
rant. Lunch and dinner are served daily. Their private dining room can hold up to 45 people. Photo
Website: www.doverdowns.com
by Abby Sayeg
Dover Downs Hotel & Casino 28
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| DELAWARE BUSINESS
6/22/12 4:05 PM
It doesn’t feel like work when you’re at the beach.
Katie Wilkinson, senior vice president of Delaware Commercial Banking at Fulton Bank, digs the all-you-can-eat Dungeness crabs at FEBY’S FISHERY (3701 Lancaster Pike, Wilmington, (302) 998-9501, www.febysfishery.com, contact: Philip DiFebo). The classic eatery and seafood market has been serving the freshest seafood in the area since 1974. “We’re a big seafood family,” Wilkinson says, “and they are very family oriented. Their staff is friendly, a lot of them have been there for a long time, so we get to know each other.” Photo by Coleen Heaver of total meeting space, on-site
Flexible meeting rooms with state
meeting rooms ideal for small
of the art audio and visual that can
groups of 15 to 50 people and
seat 10 to 1,000 people. Contact
AV can be accommodated.
one of the talented hospitality
Feel the ocean breeze during your next conference or meeting. Our oceanfront banquet rooms are ideal for business or group retreats. We also offer award-winning food and luxurious accommodations. Call or visit us online to learn more.
professionals to assist in planning
Sheraton Dover Hotel
your event. With accommoda-
1570 North DuPont Highway, Dover
tions including audio and visual
Contact: Darrell Dudley
technology equipment, a staff of
Phone: (302) 678-8500
professionals, menu options and
Fax: (302) 678-0107
a 24,000-square-foot facility, the
Email: ddudley@sheratondover.com
Sheraton Dover’s new spacious
Website: www.sheratondover.com
rooms will provide a large gather-
The Sheraton Dover Hotel is the
ing the ultimate satisfaction when
perfect place to hold a meeting.
it comes to doing business.
DELAWARE BUSINESS
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The pink hotel on the boardwalk.
Oceanfront at 2 Olive Avenue ✦ Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 Reservations: (800) 33 BEACH or (302) 227-7169 ✦ www.boardwalkplaza.com
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Restaurant, Meeting & Banquet Guide HOTELS SUSSEX COUNTY
Fountain Courtyard, Rehoboth
rates. Deluxe accommodations
ful views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Beach’s most luxurious outdoor
include 76 king and double rooms
Or choose the intimate Plaza
reception space. The profession-
with ocean and/or bay-view bal-
Cottage for executive-style ses-
al staff is happy to assist with all
conies. Schedule a meeting or
sions. Groups of up to 110 peo-
The Bellmoor Inn & Spa
aspects of creating a successful
reception for groups of up to 150
ple will enjoy full-service meals
6 Christian Street, Rehoboth Beach
conference or social gathering.
in the multi-conferencing facilities.
catered in-house by Victoria’s
Contact: Chad Moore
Banquet/meeting room capacity
Phone: (302) 227-5800
for 10 to 100 people is available.
Restaurant (open seven days a
Boardwalk Plaza Hotel
week, all year, for breakfast, lunch
2 Olive Avenue & the Boardwalk,
and dinner), the cozy Plaza Pub
Best Western Gold Leaf
Rehoboth Beach
lounge for cocktails and light fare,
Website: www.thebellmoor.com
1400 Highway One, Dewey Beach
Contact: Sales Department
a variety of gracious accommo-
Combining modern sophistica-
Contact: Sami Awayes
Phone: (302) 227-7169
dations and Victorian charm, full-
tion with the seaside retreat
Phone: (302) 226-1100
Fax: (302) 227-0561
menu room service, a heated spa
atmosphere of Rehoboth Beach,
Fax: (302) 226-9785
Email: bph@boardwalkplaza.com
and AAA Four Diamond award-
the Bellmoor provides the ideal
Website: www.bestwesterngoldleaf.com
Website: www.boardwalkplaza.com
winning service and hospitality.
setting for any event. Conference
Located in the ocean block
Meet in oceanfront, Victorian
rooms offer a feeling of warmth,
between the beach and
elegance at the Boardwalk Plaza
Inn at Canal Square
elegance and charm – a perfect
Rehoboth Bay, the Best Western
Hotel. The oceanfront Kent and
122 Market Street, Lewes
environment for any gathering.
Gold Leaf Hotel offers
Sussex Halls offer state-of the-
Contact: Jesse Burns
The Bellmoor also offers the
vacationers and business travel-
art audio-visual equipment, T1
Phone: (302) 644-3377
lovely Magnolia Garden and
ers affordable packages and value
and wireless Internet and beauti-
Fax: (302) 644-3565
Fax: (302) 227-0323 Email: chadmoore@thebellmoor.com
Email: innatcanalsquare@verizon.net Website: www.theinnatcanal square.com Located on the water in the heart of the Lewes historic district, the Inn at Canal Square offers 22 guest rooms and two two-bedroom deluxe suites with a magnificent view of the harbor. Two meeting rooms are available, the Waterview Room overlooking the canal and the Parkview Room. Any level of service a meeting or event may require can be accommodated.
Lord Baltimore Lodge 16 Baltimore Avenue, Rehoboth Beach Phone: (302) 227-2855
Led by Guiseppe and Anna Martuscelli, 34-year-old LA CASA PASTA (130 Four Seasons Parkway, Newark, (302) 738-9935, www.martuscelliandsons.com/lp, contact: Gianmarco Martuscelli) is all about
RESTAURANTS NEW CASTLE COUNTY
flavorful, homemade coastal Italian cuisine., including homemade pasta, fresh seafood and veal— something that Mark Stellini, a member of the DSCC Board of Directors Executive Committee, and Tom Embley of Precision Air Convey—can attest. “I’ve been going there for 20 years,” Stellini says. “And I love the place for a business lunch or a family dinner.” Photo by Coleen Heaver
Dom’s Pizza & Steaks Filingeri Bros, LLC 224 W. Market Street, Newport
30
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Contact: Dominick Filingeri Phone: (302) 998-7154 Fax: (302) 998-7254 Email: catering@ilovedomspizza.com Website: www.ilovedomspizza.com Dom’s Pizza and Steaks provides catering for any sized event. From large meetings to small office parties, Dom’s Pizza and Steaks can customize a menu to fit specific needs. It was voted “Best Pie for the Regular Guy” by the News Journal in June 2008.
Firebirds Wood Fired Grill Center Pointe Plaza, 1225
Former DSCC chairman Tommy Cooper of Cooper Realty says the ambiance at Lewes classic THE
Churchman’s Road, Newark
BUTTERY (Second & Savannah, Lewes, (302) 645-7755, www.butteryrestaurant.com, contact: Lisa
Contact: Mike Lieber
McDonald) is unmatched. “It’s very casual, but refined,” he says. “The food is always consistent, and
Phone: (302) 366-7577
you can count on having a great dining experience.” The beautifully restored Victorian home in the
Fax: (302) 366-8011
heart of Lewes has been applauded and awarded for excellence in cuisine and service for 16 years.
Website: www.firebirdsrestaurants.
Photo by Tom Nutter
com
TAKE MILES OFF YOUR NEXT MEETING.
Enjoy the convenience of Wilmington’s premier event venue, right in your own backyard. Versatile space that can accommodate groups of 25 to 1,500. Award-winning cuisine. Attentive staff. State-of-the-art audiovisual services. And no sales tax. Why go any further?
815 Justison Street | 302 .425.3929 | www.centerontheriverfront.com
DELAWARE BUSINESS
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31
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Restaurant, Meeting & Banquet Guide Wood grilled steaks, ice cold
that are certain to please both the
experience including a relaxed
ing ‘til midnight, a lively pastry
martinis and more. A semi pri-
most discerning and adventure-
atmosphere, private tables,
bar, chef tastings and brunch.
vate dining room holds up to 8
some palettes. Enjoy a chef’s
attentive service, fine wines and
people.
tasting menu each evening to
signature fondue dinners.
Potstickers Asian Grille
broaden your culinary experience.
The Green Room at the Hotel du Pont
Centre Point Plaza II
Newport Restaurant
1247 Churchman’s Road, Newark
601 Newport Pike, Newport
Phone: (302) 731-0188
11th & Market Streets, Wilmington
Hibachi Sushi and Supreme Buffet, Inc.
Contact: Maria Perdikis
Fax: (302) 731-9188
Contact: Dining Reservations
429 South Walnut Street, Wilmington
Phone: (302) 998-1073
Website: www.potstickersasian
Phone: (302) 594-3154
Phone: (302) 658-8580
For 25 years, Newport
grill.com
Fax: (302) 594-3070
Fax: (302) 658-8581
Restaurant, located in Greystone
Potstickers is an Asian fusion of
Plaza, has served breakfast,
quality ingredients and high-end
Website: www.hoteldupont.com Timeless charm and beauty are
Melting Pot, Chelsun, Inc.
lunch and dinner. The restau-
dining complete with a sushi bar.
reflected in the recent renova-
1601 Concord Pike, Wilmington
rant offers delicious homemade
Voted Best of Delaware 2010 and
tions; a combination of new
Contact: Brad Oberholzer
chicken croquettes and crab
2011.
and old with rich wood panel-
Phone: (302) 652-6358
cakes. Newport Restaurant is a
ing, gold-leaf ceilings and chic
Fax: (302) 652-8101
casual, family restaurant.
Versace-pattern china. Service at
Website: www.meltingpot.com
The Spare Rib Xpress/Kegler’s Pub & Sports Bar
the Hotel du Pont is exquisitely
For more than three decades,
Piccolina Toscana
3031 New Castle Avenue, New Castle
old-fashioned friendly, attentive,
The Melting Pot has defined fon-
1412 N. Dupont Street, Wilmington
Contact: Anthony Georgette, GM
gracious and refined. The Green
due dining niche across America.
Contact:
Phone: (302) 655-7427
Room offers American cuisine
At The Melting Pot, fondue truly
Phone: (302) 654-8001
Fax: (302) 655-2080
with a European flair in an elegant
becomes a memorable four-
Fax: (302) 654-8250
Email: thesparerib@comcast.net
atmosphere that is both comfort-
course dining experience where
Website: www.piccolinatoscana.com
The Spare Rib Xpress is a full
able and intimate. Classic dining
patrons can dip into something
Nestled in Trolley Square,
service dine in/carry-out/cater-
without the stuffiness, the Green
different – and discover all the
Piccolina Toscana is an Italian
ing restaurant located at The
Room features innovative dishes
ingredients for a unique dining
“tapas” restaurant featuring din-
Bowlerama Family Entertainment
DSCC board member Chad Moore of the Bellmoor in Rehoboth Beach appreciates the fine dining acumen of EDEN RESTURANT (23 Baltimore Avenue, Rehoboth Beach, (302) 227-3330, www. edenrestaurant.com, contact: Danielle Panarello), which has captured awards for its wine list and martini bar. “There’s always lots of energy in the room,” he says. “That, and a great wine list. You can’t go wrong with the grilled Caesar salad, or the lobster and crab tower.” Photo by Tom Nutter
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Bowling Center featuring over
charities and non-profits of their
twenty 50” Plasma TV’s and a
choice.
The Green Room at the Hotel du Pont
new 100” HD TV. Its great food has been voted “Best Ribs” in Delaware Today. Live entertainment in Kegler’s (check for dates and
RESTAURANTS SUSSEX COUNTY
times). Meeting capacity up to 90.
Union City Grille
Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats
805 N. Union Street, Wilmington
320 Rehoboth
Contact: Matthew Curtis
Avenue, Rehoboth Beach
Phone: (302) 654-9780
Contact: Matt Patton
Fax: (302) 654-0238
Phone: (302) 226-BREW
Website: www.unioncitygrille.com
Fax: (302) 226-0792
private function room overlooks
Beach
Located in Wilmington’s Little
Email: matt@dogfish.com
the distillery. An enclosed deck is
Contact: Laura McCann
Italy, Union City Grille serves deli-
Website: www.dogfish.com
also available in the spring, sum-
Phone: (302) 227-3567
cious food at affordable prices.
Experience craft-brewed ales and
mer and fall. Dogfish is open for
Fax: (302) 227-4566
Its menu ranges from chili to their
spirits made in Delaware and a
lunch and dinner, seven days a
Website: www.grottopizza.com
signature filets to award-winning
brew rub specializing in wood-
week, year round.
Since 1960, Grotto Pizza has
meatballs. Union City Grille also
grilled seafood and steaks. A
offers “Dine-in for Charity” where
casual, fun environment with
Grotto Pizza, Inc.
was voted Best Pizza in Best of
participants can raise money for
great food and drinks. Upstairs, a
20376 Coastal Highway, Rehoboth
Delaware 2011.
DELAWARE BUSINESS
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been a staple in Delaware and
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6/19/12 3:41 PM
Restaurant, Meeting & Banquet Guide Nicola Pizza 8 North First Street, Rehoboth Beach
COUNTRY/MEMBERS CLUBS
from simple breakfast and lunch
requirement to host events at the
options to extravagant dinners
Club or Brantwyn.
Contact: Nick Caggiano, Jr.
are available. Conference service
Phone: (302) 227-6230
packages make planning easy,
Frog Hollow Golf Club 1 East Whittington Way, Middletown
Fax: (302) 226-3721
Cavaliers Country Club
and any event can be paired
Website: www.nicolapizza.com
100 Addison Drive, Newark
with golf, tennis or an event in
Contact: Carmel Stephano
Nicola Pizza started in Rehoboth
Phone: (302) 737-1200
the park for your next retreat
Phone: (302) 378-4653
Beach in 1971 and is home to
Fax: (302) 737-1212
or teambuilding exercise. With
Email: cstephano@froghollow
the famous, Nic-o-boli. The pizza
Cavaliers Country Club, the
spectacular views of the golf
golfclub.com
shop also participates in fund-
best-kept secret in northern
course and the park, a meeting
Website: www.froghollowgolfclub.com
raising events.
Delaware, is located just off
at Deerfield is sure to refresh and
Frog Hollow Golf Club is
I-95 and 10 minutes south of
reinvigorate.
Middletown’s premiere champi-
Wilmington. Golf outings avail-
COMMUNITY, CONFERENCE & CONVENTION CENTERS
able on Mondays and Thursdays.
Brandywine Executive Center
Deerfield
1521 Concord Pike, Suite 301,
onship 18-hole golf course fea-
DuPont Country Club & Brantwyn Estate
turing The Den Restaurant, which
Banquet and meeting accommodations available for five to 350
1001 Rockland Road, Wilmington
for enjoying food and drink with
people.
Contact: The Sales Office
friends. Not your typical pub
Phone: (302) 421-1730
fare, the Den Chef creates daily
Fax: (302) 421-1770
specials that are sure to please
507 Thompson Station Road, Newark
Website:
many a palate. The Oak Room at
Wilmington
Contact: Jeffrey Robinson
Minutes from downtown
Frog Hollow is the perfect setting
Contact: Chuck Boyce
Phone: (302) 368-6640
Wilmington, the DuPont Country
for your banquet or special event
Phone: (302) 352-9948
Fax: (302) 366-0345
Club & Brantwyn Estate offers
with ample space for 150 guests,
Email: chuck@bwecenter.com
Email: dfinfo@deerfieldgolfclub.com
a variety of meeting and social
scenic vistas and a 5-star wait
Website: www.bewcenter.com
Website: www.deerfieldgolfclub.com
venues accommodating groups
staff to complete this truly unique
Executive office space, shared
Deerfield is Delaware’s most
from five to 500. The Clubhouse
facility located in Middletown.
office space, business identity,
unique and memorable meeting,
features two spacious ballrooms,
meeting space.
conference and special event
eight banquet rooms and a lovely
Kings Creek Country Club
destination. Meetings from 20
outdoor terrace. A former du
One Kings Creek Circle,
Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library
to 500 guests can be scheduled
Pont family residence, Brantwyn
Rehoboth Beach
in any one of our many meeting
Estate offers an elegant and
Contact: Gary Wheeler
5105 Kennett Pike, Wilmington
rooms. A wide array of spaces
unique setting for any event.
Phone: (302) 227-7172
Contact: Isabelle Farrell
from conference rooms to trade-
Conference and wedding pack-
Fax: (302) 227-7015
Phone: (302) 888-6130
show venues, are available for
ages and golf outings are
Email: gwheeler@kingscreek
Email: ifarrell@winterthur.org
your next special event. Menus
available. Membership is not a
countryclub.com
offers a comfortable atmosphere
Fax: (302) 888-4844 Website: www.winterthur.org From off-site meetings to elegant galas for hundreds, Winterthur offers a diverse array of venue options for your special event. Acres of grounds, picturesque gardens, various indoor locations to accommodate your meeting or special event need including a lecture hall that seats 356. Additional services include video conferencing and high-speed internet access. Catering provided by Restaurant Associates.
Heritage Shores Club
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DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES? Apply now for the 2012 Marvin S. Gilman Superstars in Business Award and show Delaware why you deserve star status!
Use this application to apply your small business or nonprofit today. You can also apply online at ssb.dscc.com.
Superstars in Business Awards Luncheon Wednesday, November 14, 2012 11:15 a.m. Hotel du Pont Gold Ballroom Featuring Keynote Speaker: Dan Butler Culinary Mastermind of Piccolina Toscana, Deep Blue, and more!
Delaware State Chamber of Commerce | Superstars in Business | Apply online at ssb.dscc.com DELAWARE BUSINESS DE SS
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WHAT MAKES YOUR BUSINESS SUPER? This application form is a simple self-evaluation that can improve your business management skills, and put you in the running to win the 2012 Marvin S. Gilman Superstars in Business Award! Step 1/Self-Evaluation: • If your organization is a business, please use form A. • If you are a nonprofit, please use form B. Please answer the questions as a separate Microsoft Word file with your company letterhead or complete it online at ssb.dscc.com. Electronic PDFs and paper versions are also available. Please contact Denée Crumrine at dcrumrine@dscc.com or (302) 576-6564. Eligibility: • Member of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce • In business for at least three continuous years • 150 employees or fewer • Previous Superstars in Business winners may re-apply after five years If you would like to be connected with a previous Superstars in Business winner for assistance in completing your application, please contact Denée Crumrine at dcrumrine@dscc.com or (302) 576-6564. Step 2/Submission: Applications must be submitted to the Superstars in Business Committee no later than August 24, 2012. No late entries will be accepted. Please note that materials submitted cannot be returned, but all information remains confidential. Step 3/Application Review: Within each category, the finalists may be contacted for additional information or validation of the information submitted. The review made at this step is held in strict confidence. Step 4/The Awards: Each winner will be presented with a special award recognizing their superior achievement on November 14, 2012 at a luncheon in the Gold Ballroom of the Hotel du Pont in Wilmington. Marketing and recognition will be given to all the Business Superstars throughout the year. Awards may be judged in the following categories: • 1 to 25 employees • 25 to 75 employees • 75 to 150 employees • Nonprofits Please note that the categories will be decided upon at the Selection Committee’s discretion based on number of entries and the quality of applications. Below each question we have provided you with ‘Ideas for Success.’ They aim to help you form more robust answers and provide suggestions on what information may make your response more competitive. These are not requirements, but may help judges compare your business against other applicants. Please answer questions as concisely as possible. Questions and sponsorship or advertising inquiries may be directed to Denée Crumrine at (302) 576-6564.
ENTRY DEADLINE: August 24, 2012 Apply online at ssb.dscc.com or mail completed applications to: Small Business Alliance/ Delaware State Chamber of Commerce 1201 N. Orange Street, Suite 200, P.O. Box 671 Wilmington, DE 19899 Delaware State Chamber of Commerce | Superstars in Business | Apply online at ssb.dscc.com | (302) 655-7221 36
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Form A for BUSINESSES Please answer all questions as concisely as possible on your company letterhead or online at ssb.dscc.com. 1.
Business name, address and phone number; Primary contact’s name, title, phone number and email address.
2. Please describe your business. 3. List the number of years in business and briefly explain how your business was started. 4. Number of employees and average tenure (Please distinguish between full-time and part-time). 5. Please provide your business mission statement and/or business philosophy. A mission statement, vision statement, guiding principles or strategies for success should be listed here or can be included as attachments. How is your mission statement communicated to clients, investors and/or the general public, i.e. word of mouth, through marketing materials, etc.? Also explain how they were developed – were they customer or leadership driven, and how do you ensure they are understood by your entire company? Tell us here if you have team building meetings, strategy sessions and/or safety meetings that may include a regular discussion on these important guiding statements.
6. Given the economic challenges of the recent past and present, how have you been able to sustain or grow your business? The recession created both difficulties and opportunities for businesses. Here would be a good place to reference any strategies or measures taken that have resulted in savings, stability or growth. Profitability results or a steady financial track record would be great evidence of skillful business management. How do your financial records measure up to other companies in your industry? Smaller companies should show growth or sustainability and share projections for the future. Larger, more mature companies normally have a formal budgeting process that should show results against forecasts. An index of profitability, projection and/or financial summary would be helpful. Actual financial metrics will separate your application from the competition. You might also tell us of innovative ways you have used to market or boost sales that have produced a good ROI. Remain assured that all information is kept confidential.
7. What makes your business stand apart from your peers and/or similar businesses? Please use this question to outline how you identify customer needs and priorities. Customer loyalty, years of experience, low associate turnover and industry awards are all competitive weapons. Tell us if you are measuring customer satisfaction or if you have moved to customer loyalty or customer advocacy. Share with us how you brand your company and how you maintain it, i.e. social media, online networking, marketing campaigns, etc. Tell us if you have a customer database or process to retain information about customers to use in the future. If you have a formal process for tracking and resolving complaints, please highlight your program here and brag about your results. If associate training or education reimbursement programs are a big part of your employee retention program or your quality/safety programs, please tell us about that too. Specific examples are appreciated.
8. Identify two or three of the most significant challenges in growing your business, and explain how you handled them. Some companies highlight their hiring and retention programs here and others may share their success in adpating to economic climate changes. If there are challenges, financial or otherwise, how did the leaders of the organization rally associates to meet the challenge? How were the challenges identified and did you anticipate them coming? If they could not have been predicted, what have you learned for the next time to make the company stronger? If there are no challenges/problems to list because all employees are proactively taking care of all aspects of business in the best possible way, tell us that, too!
9. Briefly discuss the nature and involvement of your community service efforts. List key leaders’ involvement – describe investments of time, as well as causes supported financially. This is also the place where you may highlight efforts to care for our environment. List efforts regarding investment in friendlier vehicles or equipment, and to conserve and recycle materials. Do you have a formal program that includes fundraising or service hours donated? Are the commitments or passions you have for certain causes conveyed in your marketing? Are they a part of the image you relate to others? Describe any support for a health and safety program where you may even include family members.
10. Please provide the names of your professional support, i.e. banks, accounting firms, etc. If you are an award winner, we will contact them on your behalf to share the good news. We also encourage you to provide customer testimonials with your application. Delaware State Chamber of Commerce | Superstars in Business | Apply online at ssb.dscc.com | (302) 655-7221 DELAWARE BUSINESS D SS
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Form B for NONPROFITS Please answer all questions as concisely as possible on your company letterhead or online at ssb.dscc.com. 1.
Business name, address, and phone number; Primary contact’s name, title, phone number and email address.
2. Please describe the work of your nonprofit. 3. Number of years serving the community. 4. Number of paid staff and average tenure. 5. Number of volunteers and their average tenure. 6. Percentage of your organization’s budget that is: Program Services_____, Fundraising_____, Management and General_____. 7. Please provide your organization’s mission statement and/or philosophy. A mission statement, vision statement, guiding principles or strategies for success should be listed here or can be included as attachments. How is your mission statement communicated to clients, investors and/or the general public, i.e. word of mouth, through marketing materials, etc.? Also explain how they were developed – were they customer or leadership driven, and how do you ensure they are understood by your entire organization? Tell us here if you have team building meetings, strategy sessions and/or safety meetings that may include a regular discussion on these important guiding statements.
8. What makes your nonprofit stand apart from your peers and/or similar nonprofits? Please outline the measurable outcomes you monitor that indicate client satisfaction, program delivery, volunteer tenure and retention and fundraising effectiveness.
9. What is the number of people or groups that have benefited from your organization? (Please provide results for each of the last three years.) 10. What have been the two or three most significant challenges in meeting the needs of your constituency? And how have you approached these challenges? Do you have a survey process for your constituents and/or your benefactors to identify how their needs are changing? Have any changes to your organization come from this survey process in the past few years?
11. Please provide the names of your professional support, i.e. banks, accounting firms, etc. If you are an award winner, we will contact them on your behalf to share the good news: We also encourage you to provide customer testimonials with your application.
Delaware State Chamber of Commerce | Superstars in Business | Apply online at ssb.dscc.com | (302) 655-7221 38
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Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library Website: www.kingscreek
expansive outdoor patio. Our
countryclub.com
guests will experience exception-
The peaceful setting of the beau-
al amenities, first-class service
tifully lush golf course and ample
and attention to detail when visit-
facilities for all your needs has
ing Heritage Shores Club.
made Kings Creek Country Club a popular destination for all wed-
Rookery Golf Club
dings, receptions, meetings and
27052 Broadkill Road, Milton
banquets. Able to accommodate
Contact: Glenda Adkins
parties of nearly any size; staff of
Phone: (302) 684-3103
food and function specialists can
Fax: (302) 684-3389
readily make arrangements for
Email: gadkins421@aol.com
indoor or open-air ceremonies.
Website: www.rookerygolf.com Inside the Rookery Golf Club is
Heritage Shores Club
the Blue Heron Grille, a restau-
1 Heritage Shores Circle, Bridgeville
rant offering breakfast and lunch
Phone: (302) 337-9926
every day and dinner on Fridays.
Fax: (302) 337-9915
The Rookery Golf Club special-
Website: www.heritageshoresgolf.com
izes in golf outings, small recep-
Located just a short distance to
tions and dinner parties.
the nearby beach cities, Heritage
Capacity: 80 to 100.
Shores Club offers an exciting traditional country club ameni-
University & Whist Club of Wilmington
ties. Complementary to the sur-
805 North Broom Street, Wilmington
rounding golf course, a sprawling
Contact: Margaret Reilly
28,000 square-foot Clubhouse
Phone: (302) 658-5125
inspired by the architecture of
Fax: (302) 658-6415
Nantucket offers an elegant
Email: mreilly@universtywhist.com
venue for hosting special occa-
Website: www.universityandwhist
sions from your wedding recep-
club.com
tion to corporate events and
The University and Whist Club
banquets. With the surrounding
of Wilmington is known for its
golf course offering scenic sur-
quiet elegance and charm. The
roundings the Heritage Shores
Club is recognized for its long-
Club provides a unique venue
standing reputation for fine din-
for weddings with a beautifully
ing and attentive service. Come
adorned grand ballroom or the
and experience the superior
championship golf course with
DELAWARE BUSINESS
DB_JulyAug12.indd A39
| Ju l y / Au gu st 2012
THE
perfect
MIX
Luxurious overnight accommodations, the best steaks in Dover and lavish facilities for gatherings of 15 to 1500. Sacrifice nothing... indoor heated pool and hot tub, all-new core fitness center, high-speed internet, cocktail lounge, award-winning restaurant, pet-friendly accommodations, 37” LCD TVs and complimentary Starbucks Coffee in every guest room. You name it... everything you want is here for you!
Dover’s Premiere Steakhouse
Every night’s a party. It’s z-place to be!
1570 North DuPont Highway, Dover, DE | 302-678-8500 | www.sheratondover.com
39
6/19/12 3:41 PM
Restaurant, Meeting & Banquet Guide food, beverage and services the
facilities available to host events
University and Whist Club has to
ranging from conferences, meet-
offer in an atmosphere of comfort,
ings and seminars to banquets
warm hospitality and camarade-
and concerts. Capacities range
rie. The Club offers eight different
up to 8,000 people. Request
private rooms that can accom-
reservations at least 60 days in
modate from two to 200 guests.
advance for large events; meet-
The Club is open to the public
ings require a 15 business day
for catering, business meetings,
notification. The University is
rehearsal dinners, bridal and
centrally located, includes friend-
baby showers, wedding recep-
ly and courteous service and is
tions, breakfasts, luncheons,
handicapped accessible.
dinners, private parties, holiday gatherings, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs and memorial receptions.
Delaware Technical & Community College, Conference & Training Centers Dover, Georgetown, Stanton &
UNIVERSITIES & COLLEGES
Wilmington Contact: Pat Callahan Phone: (302) 857-1414 Fax: (302) 857-1452
The Bob Carpenter Sports/ Convocation Center
Email: pcallaha@dtcc.edu
University of Delaware
Experience the best of both
631 South College Avenue, Newark
worlds – a learning environment
Contact: Domenick Sicilia
grounded in academic tradi-
Phone: (302) 831-4015
tion, with the finest in hospitality
Fax: (302) 831-4019
amenities and high-tech meeting
Email: dbs@udel.edu
facilities. There are four loca-
Website: www.udel.edu/bcc
tions, with at least one in each
The Bob Carpenter Sports/
of Delaware’s three counties.
Convocation Center (BCC) is a
Each center offers fully equipped
Website: www.udel.edu/conferences
Email: jfee@immaculata.edu
5,000-seat multipurpose facility
breakout rooms, networked mul-
Goodstay Center has the char-
Website: www.immaculata.edu
at the University of Delaware. The
tipurpose computer labs, video
acter and charm typical of the
A spacious ballroom with an
BCC is the home of the Fightin’
conferencing facilities and ample
historic Brandywine Valley. The
entrance hall and terrace, the
Blue Hens men’s and women’s
parking at all locations, all less
1700s-era stone mansion is a
Great Hall is a perfect place to
basketball teams. It also serves
than 20 minutes from any point in
favorite site for weddings and
hold your wedding, anniversary,
as a venue for contemporary
Delaware. A team of experienced
social gatherings. Arsht Hall is
birthday celebration or a corpo-
entertainment for the University
conference and meeting planners
supremely designed for mingling
rate meeting. Old-world charm
and the local community and
will work with you to develop a
and buffets. The building itself is
lends itself to a memorable
offers approximately 20,000
flawless meeting that exceeds
designed in a contemporary style
celebration. From the splendor
square feet of floor space for
expectations. Every detail from
and is full of light, comfort and
of Immaculata’s campus, with
exhibits, conferences, meetings
menu planning to the most
convenience. The meeting and
landscaped lawns and gorgeous
(capacity 5,000) and banquets
sophisticated technology will be
banquet room capacity for meet-
vista, you will enjoy the ambiance
(capacity 1,000).
handled. Capacity: five to 1,300.
ings is 10 to 100, 200 banquet
of the ballroom designed in the
style and 300 for receptions.
early 20th century.
Delaware State University
Goodstay Center & Arsht Hall
1200 N. DuPont Highway, Dover
University of Delaware 2700 Pennsylvania Avenue,
The Great Hall at Immaculata University
John M. Clayton Hall
Phone: (302) 857-7775 Fax: (302) 857-7246
Wilmington
1145 West King Road, Malvern, Pa.
Contact: Polly Weir
Email: events@desu.edu
Phone: (302) 573-4401
Contact: Jackie Fee
Phone: (302) 831-2214
Delaware State University offers
Fax: (302) 573-4402
Phone: (610) 647-4400, ext. 3112
40
DB_JulyAug12.indd A40
Website: www.dtcc.edu/ccp
Biggs Museum of American Art
100 David Hollowell Drive, Newark
continued on page 41 July / Aug us t 2012
| DELAWARE BUSINESS
6/19/12 3:41 PM
continued from page 40
The Center features comfortably
The largest boutique special
Contact: Tim Gilrain
Fax: (302) 831-2998
appointed overnight accommo-
event facility in the Brandywine
Phone: (302) 656-1027
Email: pweir@udel.edu
dations for 50 people and meet-
Valley for meetings, tradeshows,
Fax: (602) 282-9243
Website: www.udel.edu/conferences
ing/dining space for 100-plus
and celebrations. Modern spa-
Email: Tim.Gilrain@phoenix.edu
Clayton Hall’s conference facility
people.
cious design with over 87,000
Website: www.phoenix.edu/Delaware
houses superlative, state-of-
square feet of versatile space
At University of Phoenix, our
the-art facilities and is flexible in
including dedicated exhibit
classes are usually held in the
space, meeting rooms, fixed seat
evenings and on weekends to
auditorium and two beautifully
meet the needs of our students.
appointed ballrooms. The center
This means most of our class-
holds 1,600 for banquets. State-
rooms are available for rent dur-
of-the-art professional in-house
ing the day, allowing you to take advantage of extra space you
floor, drive in access and com-
might not have at your offices.
exhibit area, 22 conference and
A. Felix DuPont Memorial House - Retreat and Conference Center
audio visual services, ground plimentary WIFI. Seamless event
Our Delaware campus is located
meeting rooms and a 500-seat
54 Oak Avenue, Rehoboth Beach
planning, award-winning delec-
on the waterfront in Wilmington,
auditorium.
Contact: Kathy Moore
table culinary combined with
providing easy access to major
accommodating a wide range of conferences, from an intimate gathering for 10 to a full-scale 1,200-person conclave. Clayton
COMMUNITY, CONFERENCE & CONVENTION CENTERS
Hall features include a dedicated conference staff, state-of-the-art audio visual, 7,700 square feet of
Phone: (302) 656-5441 ext. 105
professional, accommodating
highways, hotels and local com-
Neumann University
Fax: (302) 656-7342
service will elevate your event.
munity services. To accommo-
One Neumann Drive, Aston,
Email: kathymoore@dioceseofdela-
Pennsylvania
ware.net
Contact: Alexis Sinkow, Director of Conference and Scheduling Services
date your facility needs, we offer five meeting rooms available in a
Nestled in the Pines section
University of Phoenix Delaware Campus
of Rehoboth Beach, Memorial
900 Justison Street, Suite 920
for nearly any type of technical
Phone: (610) 558-5625
House is operated by the
Wilmington
presentation—offering an ideal
Email: sinkowa@neumann.edu
Episcopal Diocese of Delaware
Website: www.neumann.edu/about/
as a retreat and conference cen-
conferencing.asp
ter for non-profit organizations.
Looking for a Retreat-like
It is an ideal location to conduct
Atmosphere? Neumann
an off-site meeting, and is avail-
Conference and Training Centers
University has meeting space
able for daily or overnight stays.
STANTON AND WILMINGTON CAMPUSES
conveniently located in the
Complete catering service is
Rocco A. Abessinio Building.
available for meals and refresh-
Included in this space are mod-
ments. The house has 30 beds
ern meeting rooms equipped
spread throughout 10 bedrooms
with board tables, audio-visual
offering a variety of sleeping
capabilities, and easy access to
arrangements. There are a num-
vending machines and restrooms
ber of meeting areas to accommodate the entire group and
variety of sizes—and equipped
Delaware Tech Conference Centers offer: Space - More than 2,000 square feet to accommodate up to 500 attendees Technology - Wi-Fi, overhead projectors, video conference equipment Free parking - both locations
Virden Conference & Retreat Center
breakouts. The house is located
University of Delaware
the beach and four blocks from
700 Pilottown Road, Lewes
Rehoboth Avenue.
One-Stop Shopping - Access to our team of professional planners and caterers
Phone: (302) 645-4110
Chase Center on the Riverfront
Let’s plan your next event together.
Fax: (302) 645-4113
815 Justison Street, Wilmington
Email: hjtaylor@udel.edu
Contact: Kerrie Van Horn
Website: www.udel.edu/conferences
Phone: (302) 425-3929 ext. 138
in a quiet oasis two blocks from
Contact: Jay Taylor
The University of Delaware’s
Fax: (302) 425-4897
Virden Center is a full-service
Email: info@centerontheriverfront.
conference and retreat facility
com
situated in a quiet secluded set-
Website: www.centerontheriverfront.
ting in historic, seaside Lewes.
com
DELAWARE BUSINESS
DB_JulyAug12.indd A41
|
Ju l y / Au gu st 2012
For more information contact Gary James at (302) 283-3179 or grjames@dtcc.edu.
41
6/20/12 3:33 PM
Restaurant, Meeting & Banquet Guide setting for your next meeting or
Website: www.rockwoodpark.org
training. You can rent our facilities
Rockwood offers newly renovat-
on a recurring schedule or simply
ed, state-of the-art meeting facili-
for a one-time event. And we
ties, a Victorian house museum
offer highly competitive rates.
and Victorian style cafe, historic landscape garden, and a park
Wilmington Area Planning Council (WILMAPCO)
with more than two miles of light-
850 Library Avenue Suite 100, Newark
the Northern Delaware Greenway.
ed walking trails that connect to
Contact: Randi Novakoff Phone: (302) 737-6205 ext. 111 Email: rnovakoff@wilmapco.org
THEATERS
Website: www.wilmapco.org A meeting/conference room is
Delaware Theatre Company
available for public meetings.
200 Water Street, Wilmington
Capacity: 45
Contact: MaryAnn “MJ” Jones
Easter Seals Conference Center
much more. A 50” Plasma TV,
Phone: (302) 594-1104 ext. 251 Fax: (302) 594-1107
The Grand Opera House
DVD, sound system, wireless
Email: mjones@delawaretheatre.org
818 North Market Street, Wilmington
internet, climate controlled and
Website: www.delawaretheatre.org
Contact: Melissa Lazopoulos
ample free on-site parking are
Biggs Museum of American Art
Founded in 1979, the Delaware
Phone: (302) 658-7897
available. Bowlerama is handi-
406 Federal Street, Dover
Theatre Company (DTC) is the
Fax: (302) 652-5346
cap accessible. Many packages
Contact: Beccy Cooper
flagship professional theatre in
Email: MLazopoulos@grandopera.org
are available that include food,
Phone: (302) 674-2111, ext. 101
the state and one of Delaware’s
Website: www.thegrandwilmington.
refreshments, snacks, bowling
Email: bcooper@biggsmuseum.org
largest cultural institutions.
org
and shoe rental.
Website: www.biggsmuseum.org
Recognized as the cornerstone
The Grand is a Victorian opera
The Biggs Museum of American
in the Brandywine Valley’s rich
house which has been meticu-
Art houses a collection of fine
cultural landscape, DTC has
lously restored to its original
Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, Inc.
and decorative art objects
produced more than 150 plays
grandeur and outfitted to serve
6 Cannery Village Center, Milton
reflecting the State of Delaware,
for over one million residents and
Delaware as a performance
Contact: Mark Carter
the Delmarva Peninsula, and
visitors to its community. DTC
facility. It includes a 1,190-seat
Phone: (302) 684-1000
the Mid-Atlantic region. The
offers rentals of its full stage,
theater, a 300-seat theater and
Fax: (302) 226-0792
Museum’s 16 galleries display
apron, gallery/ lobby, rehearsal
studios with capacities from 16
Email: info@dogfish.com
a careful balance of furniture,
hall and more.
to 300 people.
Website: www.dogfish.com
MUSEUMS
paintings, silver, glass, ceramics,
Free tours of Dogfish Head’s
and textiles in a timeline presen-
The DuPont Theatre
tation from 1700 to the present.
1007 N. Market Street, Wilmington
A number of diverse spaces are
Contact: Diana Hunt
available for meetings, recep-
Phone: (302) 656-4401 or (800)
Bowlerama
get all beer and merchandise in
tions, cocktail parties, rehearsal
338-0881
3031 New Castle Avenue, New Castle
our on-site gift shop. The tours
dinners, weddings and other
Fax: (302) 594-1437
Contact: Steve Gross
are fun and give you a chance
occasions. Private gallery tours
Website: www.duponttheatre.com
Phone: (302) 654-0263
to get a behind-the-scenes peek
can be provided. Fees are based
The DuPont Theatre is among
Fax: (302) 654-0263
at our brew house, the cellars
on the number of guests and
the oldest continually operating
Email: sgross@bowlerama.us
(including our 3 huge wooden
hours reserved for the event.
theaters in the nation. Located
Website: www.bowlerama.us
tanks) and our packaging hall.
Milton, Delaware, brewery include
A LITTLE DIFFERENT
sampling (only for those of legal drinking age), and a chance to
in the luxurious Hotel du Pont,
Newly renovated in 2008-2009,
Rockwood Park and Museum
the brightest stars of stage and
Bowlerama Family Entertainment
610 Shipley Road, Wilmington
screen have graced the lovely
Bowling Center offers more than
Junior Achievement of Delaware
Contact: Regina Marini
Victorian stage since 1913. This
1000 sq. ft. of meeting space for
522 S. Walnut Street, Wilmington
Phone: (302) 761-4342
1,200-seat theater is the perfect
over 100 people. Available for
Contact: Perry Bacon
Fax: (302) 761-1723
setting for large meetings and
meetings, team building, parties,
Phone: (302) 654-4510
Email: rockwood@nccde.org
events.
awards banquets, reunions and
Fax: (302) 654-0783
42
DB_JulyAug12.indd A42
July / Aug us t 2012
| DELAWARE BUSINESS
6/19/12 3:41 PM
Email: Perry@JADEL.org
Website: www.de.easterseals.com
event rental. Capacity: 250; 400
Castle
Website: www.jadelaware.org
Easter Seals offers a beauti-
for Gallery 10
Phone: (302) 575-1800
Junior Achievement’s Experiential
ful, brand-new 1,400-square-
Fax: (302) 655-0774
Learning Center provides a
foot Conference Center. The
Provides background and fore-
unique backdrop that is perfect
Conference Center is convenient-
for any type of event. The facility
ly located just off of Commons
offers more than 13,000 square feet of space and is appropri-
PHOTOGRAPHERS
ground music.
Boulevard and is perfect for
Final Focus
FastSigns
professional trainings, confer-
301 A Street, Wilmington
4577 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington
ate for small intimate gatherings
ences, workshops or meetings.
Contact: Dick Dubroff
Phone: (302) 998-6755
or receptions accommodating
Depending on seating and table
Phone: (302) 655-7718
Fax: (302) 998-7542
as many as 200 people. A mini-
arrangements, this room can
Fax: (302) 655-7918
Sign manufacturers that can do
version of a town can simulate
accommodate between 65 to
Website: www.finalfocus.com
one-day service and displays/
a meeting in a village square, a
100 people. The Conference
local bank or a mayor’s office.
Center is fully accessible and
Portraits In The Sand
This one-of-a-kind setting will
includes Internet connection,
110 White Oak Road, Rehoboth Beach
Foxfire Printing
make any function memorable.
video connection, a wireless
Contact: David Koster
750 Dawson Drive, Newark
State-of-the-art audio/visual
mouse and keyboard, a wireless
Phone: (302) 226-9226
Phone: (302) 368-9466
equipment includes 14-foot
microphone, a DVD/VHS player,
Website: www.portraitsinthesand.
Contact: Seif Hussain
screens for DVD/VHS and
and a speaker phone. The room
com
Email: thussain@foxfireprinting.com
PowerPoint presentations, a
also has an audio loop for the
smart board, Internet access and
hearing impaired. Limited food
a computer lab.
exhibits.
Website: www.foxfireprinting.com Foxfire is a full-service, technol-
service is available, as are break-
Terence Roberts Photography Inc.
out rooms. Parking is free and
109 Warwick Drive, Wilmington
company, delivering
Kalmar Nyckel Foundation
just steps from the front door.
Contact: Terence Roberts
turnkey solutions for retailers,
1124 East 7th Street, Wilmington
Our rates are very reasonable,
Phone: (302) 478-1132
manufacturers, direct marketers,
Phone: (302) 429-7447
and all funds are used to support
Fax: (302) 478-1161
and service industries.
The Kalmar Nyckel provides
disability services. Ask about our
Website: www.terenceroberts.com
sails for up to 49 passengers
Dover and Georgetown locations.
ogy-driven marketing solutions
Gable Signs, Inc.
for private charters and has a
Tucker Photographic
301 Harvey Drive, Newport
90 person capacity for dockside
P.O. Box 397, Rockland
Contact: Mike Hewitt
Contact: Kevin Tucker
Phone: (302) 764-7446
Phone: (302) 764-8040
Email: mike.hewitt@gablesigns.com
events. The ship is an excellent
MUSEUMS
showcase for corporate, private, and educational events, such as
Delaware Art Museum
employee meetings, social galas,
2301 Kentmere Parkway, Wilmington
and school groups. Guest are
Contact: Liz Derosier
invited to haul lines alongside the
Phone: (302) 571-9590 ext. 530
crew, join in a sea shanty or two,
Fax: (302) 571-0220
and enjoy tales of the original
Email: lderosier@delart.org
Kalmar Nyckel or pirate history
Website: www.delart.org
BSI Exhibits
Light Action, Inc. is a full service
on the special pirate sails.
The museum offers indoor and
404 Industrial Park Drive, Yeadon, Pa.
production company specializing
outdoor facilities in a variety
Phone: (610) 622-2100
in theatrical lighting, staging, and
of sizes. The Museum’s large
Fax: (610) 622-0773
audio-visual services. A broad
Gallery 10 will be available for
BSI Exhibits offer designers and
range of the most modern prod-
rental, perfect for a sit-down
builders of tradeshow exhibits
ucts and services are available
event (up to 180 people) or
(custom, modular, portable sys-
for our clients supporting meet-
greatly expanded capacity for
tems) and branded environments
ings, banquets, concerts, theatri-
a reception (up to 400). The
including complete turnkey show
cal productions, and corporate
Easter Seals Conference Center
Chihuly Bridge, running along
site services and graphic design
events.
61 Corporate Circle, New Castle
Dale Chihuly’s Persian Window,
and production for all types of
Contact: Nancy Ranalli
is appropriate for smaller gather-
media.
Parcels, Inc.
Phone: (302) 324-4444
ings. The Museum is available for
Digital Music Express (DMX)
230 N. Market Street, P.O. Box 27,
Email: nranalli@esdel.org
corporate, non-profit and social
4008 North Dupont Highway, New
Wilmington
COMMUNITY, CONFERENCE & CONVENTION CENTERS
DELAWARE BUSINESS
DB_JulyAug12.indd A43
| Ju l y / Au gu st 2012
Website: www.gablesigns.com
SIGNS/EXHIBITS/AV/ LIGHTING
Light Action, Inc. 71 Industrial Boulevard, New Castle Phone: (302) 328-7800 Fax: (302) 328-7400
43
6/19/12 3:41 PM
Restaurant, Meeting & Banquet Guide Phone: (302) 888-1718
ness room is available, as well
without the expense of traditional
Phone: (302) 792-2515
Email: metrocolor@parcelsinc.com
as several other meeting rooms.
office space. Several custom-
Website: www.simonandco.com
Parcels offers full service litiga-
The menus are customized to
ized packages are available for
Email: Jennifer@simonandco.com
tion support, high speed copying
meet anyone’s budget and culi-
furnished office space, virtual
Simon & Co. is a gift and spe-
and scanning services, color
nary desires, and the food is
offices and meeting facilities in
cialty food business specializing
reprographics, banner production
presented in a creative artistic
our world-class headquarters
in the most unique fine foods,
and specialty printing – includ-
display with hand-carved fruits
conveniently located in down-
combining them together with
ing short runs. Services available
and vegetables.
town Wilmington. Our dedicated
just the right packaging – creat-
staff enjoys watching our clients
ing the most elegant gifts that
Le Chateau Gourmet
grow their business while we
are “Simply delicious.” Do you
805 South Harrison Street, Wilmington
provide them with professional
need a special favor for a cor-
Contact: Charles Grier
support services.
porate meeting or a wedding?
24/7.
CATERERS
How about fabulous chocolates
Phone: (302) 654-2585
Marble Slab Creamery
Fax: (302) 429-1872
1215 Churchman’s Road, Newark Phone: (302) 224-7522
Urban Café
Fax: (302) 224-1340
1201 N. Market Street, Wilmington
Website: www.marbleslab.com
Phone: (302) 652-3663
From birthday parties to reunions,
Fax: (302) 652-0811
or nuts for your tables? And if
EVENT SERVICES/ SPEAKERS/STAFFING
you have guests or associates staying in a local hotel for your event, we will prepare welcoming gift bags or boxes that will
Michael A. Poppiti, P.A.
make them “ooh and aah.” Our
company picnics to trade shows,
301 Old DuPont Road, Suite C,
gifts can be customized to meet
office parties and other special
Wilmington
anyone’s budget and desires.
Contact: Ciro Poppiti, III
Simon & Co. also offers “fresh
Phone: (302) 521-5461
baked trays” that are perfect
Hoffman Design Group, Inc.
Email: ccpoppiti@aol.com
for any office, a meeting, or just
900 Carpenters Crossing
Website: www.poppitilaw.com
to send to your favorite host or
The Greenery Caterers at Rockwood Park Carriage House
Folcroft, Pennsylvania
A law firm in the practice of those
hostess. Also ideal to send as
Contact: Donna Zettle
areas involving food and bever-
a condolence, “thinking of you”
610 Shipley Road, Wilmington
Phone: (610) 459-1407
age; alcohol licensing; hospitality;
gift. Our delicious cakes, cook-
Contact: Craig and Patti Trostle
Fax: (610) 459-1408
restaurants and banquet facilities.
ies and rugelach are baked from
Phone: (302) 472-2433
Email: info@hoffmandesigngroup.
Fax: (302) 482-1885
com
Email: ctrostle@greenerycaterers.
events, Marble Slab Creamery
FLORISTS
can help turn any event into a special occasion.
scratch for us by wonderful bakeries in Philadelphia and Boston.
Website: www.hoffmandesigngroup.
Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau
com
com
100 West 10th Street, Suite 20,
Sons Tea or some fresh fruit can
The Greenery Caterers are the
Providing interior and exterior
Wilmington
be added as well. ■
exclusive caterers at the newly
landscaping, floral, holiday decor.
Contact: Director of Sales
renovated Rockwood Park
Phone: (302) 295-2213
Carriage House located on the
Fax: (302) 652-4726
grounds of New Castle County’s Rockwood Park. The Carriage House is designed for both outdoor garden wedding ceremo-
COMMUNITY, CONFERENCE & CONVENTION CENTERS
nies, as well as indoor wedding
Email: info@visitwilmingtonde.com Website: www.VisitWilmingtonDE. com From stately mansions and museums to opulent gardens
receptions with a fabulous new
STAT Office Solutions
and historic hotels, GWCVB will
climate-controlled patio area.
1201 North Orange Street, Wilmington
help you find the perfect setting
In addition to weddings from
Contact: Linda Grund
for your next event. GWCVB will
60 – 225 people, the Carriage
Phone: (302) 884-6746
save time and money by doing
House is also ideal for any social
Fax: (302) 573-2507
the legwork for you ... free of
or corporate event of distinction:
Email: lgrund@statofficesolutions.
charge.
anniversaries, showers, bereave-
com
ment gatherings, corporate
Website: www.statofficesolutions.com
Simon & Co.
retreats or business meetings. A
STAT Office Solutions offers first-
130 Hickman Road Suite 10 Claymont
state-of-the-art audio visual busi-
class work and meeting space
Contact: Jennifer Simon
44
DB_JulyAug12.indd A44
LaColombe coffee, Harney &
July / Aug us t 2012
| DELAWARE BUSINESS
6/19/12 3:41 PM
Delaware… Isn’t it time you felt great about your payroll provider?
The Preferred Payroll Provider of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce
Special offer for chamber members First month’s administrative fees waived!
www.ktbspayroll.com | 888-882-1487 KTBSPayroll is a division of Kelly & Associates Financial Services, Inc., an affiliate of Kelly & Associates Insurance Group, Inc.
DELAWARE BUSINESS
DB_JulyAug12.indd A45
|
Ju l y / Au gu st 2012
45
6/19/12 3:41 PM
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Delaware is now HIGHMARK BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD DELAWARE We’re adopting a new name. And while the name changes, what we’ve been doing for almost 80 years doesn’t. Delivering on our commitment to provide members with access to affordable, high-quality coverage as the state’s number one choice for health insurance. Same value, same coverage, same continued commitment to the people of Delaware.
:RUNLQJ ZHOO WRJHWKHU OUR NAME HAS CHANGED. WE HAVEN’T.
HIGHMARKBCBSDE.COM Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Delaware is an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
46
DB_JulyAug12.indd A46
July / Aug us t 2012
| DELAWARE BUSINESS
6/19/12 3:41 PM
Guide to Insurance
Kelly Benefit Strategies weaves wellness advocacy into its Total Benefits Solution
The Full Cycle
AT KELLY BENEFITS STRATEGIES, staff members don’t just talk about ways to keep employees fit and healthy. They walk the walk. And run the run. And bike the bike. “It’s in the fiber of the family that started the business back in 1976,” says Jason Danner, vice president and senior consultant. “Four sons in the Kelly family grew up playing lacrosse and have maintained that dedication to fitness as adults.”
BY EILEEN SMITH DALLABRIDA
Jason Danner and Kelly Benefit Solutions provide affordable and innovative benefit packages to companies around the region. PHOTO BY COLEEN HEAVER; A RT DIRECTION BY LUIS DIAZ.
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Guide to Insurance Kelly offers a variety of services that comprise its customized Total Benefits Solution, which is based on the unique needs and requirements of each customer. This approach includes plan design and strategic vision, underwriting, risk assessment, compliance support and ongoing consulting and advocacy. That translates to bringing affordable group benefits to companies through innovative design, management and administration. That involves taking care of workers when they are sick or injured, as well as coming up with strategies to encourage wellness in order to avoid suffering, expense and lost productivity. “It’s beyond benefits,” Danner says. “People are the greatest asset in any business and if people lead healthier lives, everyone wins.” Companies benefit from lower costs and a more engaged workforce. Because benefits are better, there is less turn over. Management has more time to focus on strategic initiatives. “We are a strategic benefits partner for our clients,” he says. “Companies engage Kelly to optimize their benefits program in a holistic manner.” Currently, about 75 percent of health care costs come from what is known in the industry as “self-preventable” diseases. That is, illnesses employees probably would not develop if not for such bad habits as poor diet, smoking, uncontrolled stress and lack of physical activity. In addition to carrots, companies also are introducing sticks. Increasingly, employers are rolling out a smoking tax, charging workers who smoke a hefty surcharge on their benefits contributions. The rationale is that smoking is a choice that contributes to higher health care costs. “It’s not to pick on smokers,” Danner says. “It’s a fact that smoking causes lung cancer.” Wellness initiatives also can have a significant impact on the bottom line. As an example, he points to an area auto dealership, where management was determined to reduce expenses for its aging workforce of 150 employees. Workers were averaging $1.03 in healthcare costs for every $1 of premiums, far greater than the 85-cent goal established by the federal government. To identify medical problems earlier when they are less expensive to treat, the dealer offered a discount on premiums to workers who volunteered for a health risk assessment and biometric screening. The company also brought in a health coach once a week to talk about nutrition and exercise. In less than two years, employee health costs dropped to 64 cents for every $1of premiums. This year, workers are tracking at 49 cents. Wellness programs also are much less expensive than medical plans. While healthcare benefits might cost an employer $850 each month per worker, a wellness program might cost $13 per employee. 48
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Kelly Benefit Strategies’ commitment to wellness includes sponsoring a professional cycling team.
Kelly’s main headquarters is in Hunt Valley, Md. In 2007, the company rolled out a corporate cycling team, which raises the national profile of the business, as well as its commitment to fitness. “It’s a lifetime sport,” Danner says. “You can ride a bike well into your 80s, while you couldn’t play football at that age.” Riding a bike also is an eco-friendly, low-cost way to get around. Seven of eight full-time employees ride their bikes to work on occasion at Kelly’s office in downtown Wilmington. Instead of hopping on the elevator, staffers often walk the 11 floors to the company suite—and sometimes they take the stairs just for fun “We run up and down the stairs and see how many times we can do it in half an hour,” Danner says. Kelly employees have found that stair climbing is a free source of aerobic exercise that is accessible just about any place there are buildings taller than one story. “I generally take the stairs everywhere now, though not always 11 flights every morning,” says Ryan Schultz, senior account manager. “I just try to find a balance and make sure it’s included in my day.” Joseph Angellini, senior account manager, says biking and working out with fellow employees helps to forge a solid team. “It builds trust and camaraderie between colleagues,” he says. Exercise is a great stress buster, as well. “In the short term, working out gives me an opportunity to unwind and relax,” says Justin Cross, account manager. “But I believe most of the beneJuly / Aug us t 2012
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Guide to Insurance fits will be evident later on in life. I have heard it said that most Americans spend the first half of their life trying to make money at the expense of their health, and the second half of their life spending all their money to repair their health.” Cross brings the fitness message home from the office. He and his family take walks together after dinner. He also does kettle bells, swinging a heavy cannonball-shaped weight with a handle on it up and down. “My little girl, Selah Rose, loves when I do ‘Selah Bells,’” he says. Both Kelly and the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce have offices in Wilmington at One Commerce Center on North Orange Street.
“It’s beyond benefits. People are the greatest asset in any business and if people lead healthier lives, everyone wins.” — Jason Danner, vice president and senior consultant
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Kelly and the chamber partnered with Plus 3 Network, a social networking company that combines personal fitness with charitable giving. Plus 3 plotted both teams’ progress as employees racked up points for such activities as walking, rowing and putting in time on the elliptical machine. The goal was to raise money for two good causes, the Sunday Breakfast Mission and Delaware Hospice. “The competition with Kelly was a way for us to put our money where our mouths are, so to speak,” says James Wolfe, chamber president. “In the weeks leading up to our annual Wellness @ Work Conference, the competition not only energized and engaged our staff, but it proved to me the power of implementing simple wellness programs in the workplace.” So, which team won? Danner says it was a draw, meaning no one lost—and everybody won. After all, it was a friendly competition. “The chamber has more people but we had higher average points per person,” he says. Adds Wolfe, “the DSCC team had more energy, better focus and a renewed passion for health. We have Kelly to thank for that.” Harnessing competitions, rewards and other interactive tools helps to inspire workers to embrace habits that are good for them—and to stick with them when the going gets rough. “Wellness has to be fun,” Danner says. “It just can’t be clinical.” Workplace fitness doesn’t have to be expensive, either. Small businesses, in particular, can benefit from managers and employees pooling exercise equipment that might not be getting a good workout at home. So, why not move that idle treadmill out of the garage and into an informal company fitness center? “My weights were collecting dust in my basement,” Danner says. “Now, they are in the office for everyone to use, so colleagues can hit the weights at work.” ■ July / Aug us t 2012
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Guide to Education Culinary careers (as well as many others) blossom at Delcastle Technical High School under the watch of instructor James Berman (center). PHOTO BY NICK WALLACE.
Recipe for Success
Top chefs at Delcastle Technical High School lead an exciting mix of programming at Delaware Vo-Techs BY LARRY NAGENGAST
IT LOOKS LIKE ANY SMALL RESTAURANT. Cooks in the kitchen are pan-roasting fish, mixing soup, grilling cheesesteak sandwiches and whipping up a mean stir fry. Servers on the food line are filling salad bowls and taking orders for wraps and panini. The cashier makes change while hosts and hostesses refill water glasses and keep the tables clean. But this 52-seat restaurant is different in a significant way. No one on the staff is over 18, and in fact, every one here is a high school student. It’s Binders Café at Delcastle Technical High School, where students in the school’s award-winning culinary arts program prepare lunch four days a week, fill catering orders for school and nonprofit organizations, and learn the skills essential for success in the food service industry. DELAWARE BUSINESS
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The boss, chef Jim Berman, is head of the culinary arts program, and wears the same white cook’s jacket as his students. But his presence is hardly noticed. Except for two students asking for advice on how to make the crust for a cheesecake they had never tried before, Berman does little other than observe. “The operation should be autonomous—the kids working with very little guidance, focusing on quality and time management,” Berman says. The students do it all—not just cooking and serving but also choosing menus, scheduling assignments for everyone on the team, contacting vendors and making sure everything gets done on time, he says. “We’re a restaurant, subject to all state health regulations, so the students 53
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Guide to Education know we have to stay on the right page at all times,” Berman says. As restaurants go, there’s nothing simple about the menu either, even though an entrée, beverage and dessert can be had for less than $10. Entrees one week in May included chargrilled flank steak and pan-roasted amber jack and mushroom quinoa with roasted golden beet and bacon relish. Compared with the gingered chicken dumplings in shitake mushroom duck broth, the bacon-potato soup seemed positively mundane. “We make everything from scratch here, even the skins for the dumplings,” Berman says. “It’s good—too good sometimes,” says Delcastle dental assistant teacher Annette Shimp, who usually eats in the café twice a week. “You can see the improvement throughout the year, both in cooking and in presentation,” added Jan Spence, a paraprofessional on the Delcastle staff. From the sophomores learning the basics to the seniors who take on
supervisory roles, Delcastle’s 75 culinary arts students learn the importance of working together. “Everybody is so close, it’s like a family,” junior Ashley Morole says. “It’s a struggle,” added junior Chris Pedrogo. “But when we have to get it done, we get it together.” Getting it done together extends far beyond the kitchen that serves as their primary classroom. Students work at one of the concession stands at Frawley Stadium during Wilmington Blue Rocks games, take co-op jobs at restaurants and bakeries throughout New Castle County, and even in the Delcastle school cafeteria. Their support for charitable causes in the community adds up to 4,000 to 4,500 volunteer hours a year. In March, 15 students collaborated with local artists in the Taste for Art fundraiser to benefit Children and Families First. In April, students worked alongside top chefs from across the nation at the Meals from the Masters benefit for Delaware’s Meals on Wheels program. In late June, another 15
More Cool School Programs NEW CASTLE COUNTY VO-TECHS OFFER A WIDE ARRAY The New Castle County Vocational-Technical School District
grams. They learn not only biology and chemistry but also how
offers a total of 41 career programs. Three programs—culinary
to maintain and operate instruments and equipment commonly
arts, carpentry and auto technology—are offered at all four high
found in biotech labs. They learn to analyze data and to pres-
schools: Delcastle, Hodgson, Howard and St. Georges. Some
ent facts and ideas graphically, orally and in writing at a quality
programs are offered at only one school. They include:
level consistent with standards of the biotechnology commu-
Digital Media and Graphic Arts programs are unique to
nity. Highly competent graduates may obtain work immediately
Delcastle Technical High School. The Digital Media curriculum
as lab technicians, but they are advised that an associate’s
includes courses in video production and in web and graphic
degree, and often a bachelor’s degree, is required for continued
design, preparing students for careers in television and other
advancement in the field.
video-oriented professions. The Graphic Arts curriculum prepares
Students apply for vo-tech schools in eighth grade, ranking the
students to produce printed communications using offset, screen
four schools in order of preference and listing three desired areas
and digital technologies.
of study. About three-quarters of all applicants are selected, most
The Computer Network Administration curriculum, unique to the Howard High School of Technology in Wilmington, trains students for entry-level employment in the information technology industry.
of them at the school of their choice, according to district spokeswoman Kathy Demarest. Although there are some differences in organization at each of the
Students learn about computer hardware and operating systems,
schools, the freshman year is devoted to career exploration, with
networking, software applications, and receive introductions to web
students gaining exposure to many programs offered at their school
and video game design technologies.
and then applying to a specific career program. After two years of
Environmental Landscape Technology is a specialty program at Hodgson Vocational-Technical High School in Glasgow. Preparing students for careers in landscape management, the curriculum encompasses the entire ecosystem, with hands-on experience provided on the school’s landscaped grounds, turf grass areas, woodland and wetland areas. The program prepares graduates for many green careers in the environmental, horticultural and land-use fields. At St. Georges Technical High School, the newest of the vo-
intensive work in their career area, many seniors spend up to onehalf of the year in co-op work programs. Each school has a staff member responsible for its co-op programs. They are: • Delcastle, Kevin Thomas, 995-8187, kevin.thomas@nccvt. k12.de.us • Hodgson, Bryan Moxley, 832-7740, bryan.moxley@nccvt.k12. de.us
tech schools, Biotechnology is one of several unique programs.
• Howard, Vince Lofink, 571-5410, vince.lofink@nccvt.k12.de.us
This career program challenges students to master the science
• St. Georges, Roger Seedorf, 449-3617, roger.seedorf@nccvt.
and math skills needed to enter competitive college-level pro-
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students headed to Kansas City, Mo., for the Skills USA national competition (where a Delcastle team won a first place award in 2010). And, for the last two years, Delcastle students have bested Delaware professional chefs in the competition at the March of Dimes’ Farmer and the Chef fundraiser. In July, a group of 21 students will head to Ripatransone, Italy, for a two-week cooking tour and plan to write a book chronicling their experiences, Berman says. Delcastle graduates are ready to work in “above entry-level positions” in food service, Berman says, but many choose to continue their education at Delaware Technical Community College or in two- or four-year programs at the Culinary Institute of America, Johnson & Wales University or the New England Culinary Institute. Culinary programs at the vo-tech districts other schools are similar to the one at Delcastle, but they are slightly smaller, enrolling an average of around 55 to 60 students, Berman says. Delcastle senior Kelsey Grant was looking to start a full-time job this summer, figuring she would work for a year or two before going to college to prepare for a career in restaurant management. “Based on what I’ve done here, I feel that I’m 100 percent ready,” she says. Pedrogo is looking forward to honing his skills during his senior year before enrolling in a college culinary arts program. “I see myself getting old cooking,” he says, “because cooking never gets old.” ■
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A Night with W
Supporting S i their h i
award winning school, the choir from Thomas McKean High School sang the national anthem.
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the Stars
The 2012 Superstars in Education were honored at an awards dinner held on May 7. PHOTOS BY ERIC CROSSAN S
Brandon
Jackson, Keri Fulcher and Jack Perry get some networking in before the dinner starts. W
Students from
Delaware Technical Community College wait their turn to talk to Attorney General Beau Biden.
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Superstars in Education
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W
Clockwise from top left: Sec. of Education
Lillian Lowery was proud to share the night with the Christina School District, the Lt. Governor Parental Involvement Award winners. Lowery is a former superintendant for the district. Sec. Lowery and Peggy Strine from the Partnership, Inc. chat before sitting down to dinner. The room at the Chase Center looked stunning waiting for the nearly 400 attendees to arrive! X
Ralph Kuebler from the selection commit-
tee hands Katie Kravitz from Thomas McKean High School a Superstar Award for the “Absence and Recovery Work� program. T
Gov. Jack Markell caught up with many
guests before addressing the crowd with aspirations to make Delaware schools the best in the country.
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Superstars in Education X
Lt. Gov. Matt Denn gave out the
Parental Involvement Awards to some outstanding programs in the Christina School District. T
Sen. Tom Carper (left) celebrates
the exceptional winning education programs and Sen. Chris Coons (right) addresses the crowd and commends the winning programs.
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Newsbites District of Delaware, serving as chair of the House Judiciary Committee and a member of the Joint Finance Committee. She co-founded and cochairs the Delaware Kids Caucus, a group of legislators who advocate for children’s issues. Smith is also a member of the Child Protection Accountability Commission, which monitors Delaware’s child protection system to ensure the health, safety and well-being of the state’s at-risk children.
Artisan’s Bank Promotes Three
Artisans’ Bank is pleased to announce the promotions of the following three bank officers: Richard M. Tulin, promoted to Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer; Elizabeth D. Albano, promoted to Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer; and Joel S. Schiller, promoted to Senior Vice President & Chief Risk Officer. As Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Tulin will be responsible for the Senior Management of Bank Administration WSFS Investment Group and Bank Operations. He will oversee Hires New Financial Advisor the planning, organization and controls of day-to–day activities of the Bank. Mr. WSFS Financial Corporation, the Tulin will develop strategies for current parent company of WSFS Bank, today & future organizational needs and attain announced that Frank FitzGerald II has established Bank operation joined WSFS Investment and financial goals. Mr. Tulin Group, Inc. as a Financial will be a member of the Senior Advisor. WSFS Investment Management Group and reports Group is a subsidiary of directly to the President and WSFS Bank, providing brokerage, retirement and insurCEO. ance services to its clients Mr. Tulin joined the Bank’s through INVEST Financial Finance Division in 1998 as Corporation. Finance Asset/ Liability Officer Prior to joining WSFS, Mr. Frank FitzGerald II after having been with Zurich FitzGerald was Vice President Commercial in Baltimore, of Investments at Citizens Investment MD. He went on to assume addiServices (formerly Dreyfus Investment tional responsibilities within the Bank’s Services), where he was responsible for Finance Division; his most recent posithe sales and service of investment prod- tion being Vice President and Group ucts to individuals and businesses. Finance Manager before his promoMr. FitzGerald began his career in tion to Senior Vice President and Chief marketing with John Hancock Insurance Operating Officer. Mr. Tulin is a graduate Company in Philadelphia. He then spent of the University of Delaware, Newark, the next seven years with Prudential DE where he received a B.S. degree Insurance Company of America, servin Business Administration. Mr. Tulin ing as a manager in the sales and resides in Bear, DE. marketing departments before joining Mrs. Albano will assume the Senior Dreyfus. A resident of Lewes, Delaware, Management duties of the Finance Mr. FitzGerald is a graduate of Widener Area. She will be responsible for the University with a Bachelor of Science in financial management of the Bank Psychology and an Associate degree in to include cost accounting, budgets, Business. forecasting needs, regulatory agency
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& government reports. Mrs. Albano will oversee the management & coordination of all fiscal reporting activities and ensure compliance with Bank policies and procedures. Mrs. Albano will be a member of the Senior Management Group and report directly to the President and CEO. Mrs. Albano joined the Bank in 1991 as a Management Trainee and has progressed through a variety of positions in both the Control and Finance Divisions. Before her promotion to Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer she was Vice President & Controller. Mrs. Albano is a graduate of Mount St. Mary’s College, Emmitsburg, Maryland where she received a B.S. degree in Business and Finance. Mrs. Albano resides in Wilmington, DE. As Chief Risk Officer, Mr. Schiller will assume the Senior Management duties of the Bank’s Control Division to include Compliance & CRA, Physical and Account Security, Internal Audit, and Enterprise Risk Management. Mr. Schiller will be a member of the Senior Management Group and reports directly to the President and CEO. Mr. Schiller joined Artisans’ in 1999 as Assistant Vice President and Compliance Officer. He had previously worked 19 years in the Audit Division for the former Beneficial Corporation, including two years as Audit Director for its Stuttgart, Germany office. Before his promotion to Senior Vice President & Chief Risk Officer, Mr. Schiller was Vice President, Compliance & Community Reinvestment Officer. Mr. Schiller is a graduate of Rider University in Lawrenceville, New Jersey where he received a B.S. degree in Accounting. He obtained his MBA from Widener University, Chester, PA. Mr. Schiller resides in Wilmington, DE.
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Wolfenden appointed President of Committee of 100
High Honors for Delaware Today Magazine
David Wolfenden, CPA, MS Delaware Today magazine has recently been elected as recently received top honors from President of the Committee the Delaware Press Association of 100 for a term of two (DPA), earning several awards in years. David has been an the 2012 DPA Communications David Wolfenden active board member of the Contest. Nine members of the Committee of 100 for three years and Delaware Today editorial team and affiliis looking forward to the opportunity to ated freelancers earned a total of 16 honors continue to be involved in such a presit- in 10 categories. The team accumulated gous organization. The Committee of seven first place honors and a host of other 100 is a business organization that proaccolades. Categories included feature stomotes responsible economic developries, columns, page layouts, headline writment and addresses issues that affect ing, and electronic newsletters. Delaware’s economic health. Organized The Delaware Press Association is dediin response to problems in land use cated to promoting the highest standards planning and state and local finance, of excellence in communication, as well the Committee of 100 has evolved into as protecting First Amendment freedoms. a broad-based organization that funcEach year the DPA Communications tions as a positive force, as well as a Contest welcomes entries from all profescritical observer. It can bring to bear sional communicators in Delaware and the expertise of our membership for the provides an opportunity to compete in benefit of all Delaware citizens. various fields. All DPA contest winners are David Wolfenden, CPA is also presihonored at the DPA Annual Meeting and dent of Wheeler, Wolfenden & Dwares, Contest Awards Banquet each spring. CPAs a large, local full-service CPA firm, First place winners who are members of with offices in Lewes and Wilmington, the National Federation of Press Women Del. WW&D offers a broad range of tra(NFPW) may enter the national competiditional tax, accounting, and advisory tion: Delaware Today magazine will submit services to individuals, businesses, and seven entries to the national competition nonprofit entities. this year.
Saint Francis Introduces New Name, Identity Saint Francis Healthcare in May officially introduced its new brand identity and expansion of services through a comprehensive multimedia marketing campaign that will run through the remainder of the year. The new brand identity includes a change in the healthcare organization’s name, logo and tagline, all supported by the organization’s newly coined and trademarked concept of “Care-ology™. Formerly Saint Francis Hospital, the integrated healthcare system is now Saint Francis Healthcare, with the tagline “We specialize in you.” The health care system now offers greater access to quality health services for the people of Delaware. Saint Francis is already known for its comprehensive array of women’s health services and remains the sole provider of comprehensive obstetrics in Wilmington. The healthcare system’s expansion now includes: • The first program of all-inclusive elderly care (LIFE) based out of a new facility on the Wilmington Riverfront by the end of the year • An expansion of Saint Francis Home Care through service and technology to bring round-the-clock care to the homebound
Calendar of Events JULY 24
AUGUST 2
AUGUST 15
Evening Mixer at Blue Rocks Game
Young Executives Mixer
Evening Mixer at Deerfiled
5:30-7:30 p.m.
5:00-7:00 p.m.
5:00-7:00 p.m.
Location: Frawley Stadium
Location: Union City Grille
Location: Deerfield Golf and Tennis Club
Pre-registration required
Pre-registration required
Pre-registration required
For more information, contact Lisa Prickril
For more information, contact Lisa Prickril
For more information, contact Lisa Prickril
at 302-576-6586 or lprickril@dscc.com
at 302-576-6586 or lprickril@dscc.com
at 302-576-6586 or lprickril@dscc.com
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Newsbites • An expansion of the Family Practice, Women’s Health and Surgical networks • Renovations and an enhancement of service at the Franciscan Care Center, which provides long-term care • An expansion of the Saint Clare Van program, which meets the needs of the underserved in the community
Wilmington-based MilliCare by EBC Carpet Services Recognized with Awards MilliCare, a leading provider of commercial carpet and textile care, recently recognized MilliCare by EBC Carpet Services with six awards for business and financial excellence. EBC Carpet Services is a local, independently owned member of the MilliCare network – and received the Financial Excellence, Greatest Total Market Share and Greatest Gain in Market Share Awards. In addition, EBC owner Chip Rankin was given an individual award for his dedicated service to the network’s Advisory Council. EBC associates Gary Nantais and Rob Holt were also recognized with Sales Network and Operations Network of Excellence Awards, respectively.
NAI Emory Hill Opens Second Location in Lewes NAI Emory Hill is excited to announce it is opening a second location in Lewes to better serve the needs of its commercial real estate clients in Sussex County. With the opening of the new office, Emory Hill hopes to grow from its strong roots in New Castle County to expand its offerings throughout the entire state of Delaware. Brittany Danahy has joined Emory Hill to head the new office as a commercial real estate broker. Brittany comes to Emory Hill from Sperry Van Ness/Miller Commercial Real Estate where she specialized in the sale and
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lease of retail and professional office space throughout Kent and Sussex counties. Prior to joining Sperry Van Ness, she served as a commercial realtor for Ocean Atlantic Commercial, which she played an integral role of creating and growing. A graduate of the University of San Diego, Brittany majored in Business with an emphasis in Real Estate and has also worked for Grubb & Ellis/BRE Commercial and Marcus and Millchap. Danahy said she will continue to maintain the already strong relationships she has formed with industry leaders and will continue to be involved in the ICSC (International Council of Shopping Centers), the CCIM PA/NJ/DE Board as Education Chair and the Lewes and Rehoboth Beach Chambers of Commerce. She lives with her husband and two children in Rehoboth Beach and is also an active volunteer with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
Delaware Hospice Opens New Office in Eastern Pennsylvania Delaware Hospice, the first and largest hospice provider in the state of Delaware, is pleased to announce the opening of its new office in Glen Mills, Pa. In addition to its new Glen Mills office, Delaware Hospice has offices in Wilmington, Dover, and Milford Delaware. In 2008, the Delaware Hospice Center opened its doors, enabling Delaware Hospice to offer a new option of specialized hospice care for those patients requiring brief stays for symptom management at its state-of-the-art in-patient unit.
Emory Hill’s Morrison Achieves CCIM Designation
Dave Morrison, of NAI Emory Hill in New Castle, has been designated a Certified Commercial Investment Member by the CCIM Institute. A CCIM is a recognized expert in the Morris Nichols’ Donald Isken commercial and investment real estate Honored by Delaware State industry who successfully completes Bar Association a designation process that ensures proficiency not only in theory, but also Donald Isken, head of Morris Nichols’ in practice. The elite designation is commercial real estate law practice, is awarded to those who have successthe Delaware State Bar Association’s fully completed an intense curriculum, (DSBA) 2012 Community Service Award a portfolio demonstrating their depth of recipient. The Award recognizes annucommercial real estate experience and a ally a member of the judiciary or the comprehensive examination. Delaware Bar who has demonstrated a The CCIM designation is considered commitment to leadership and service one of the most coveted designations in in activities that enrich and strengthen the industry, and experts who the community over a subpossess the CCIM designation stantial period of time. are considered an invaluable Isken is a member of Morris Nichols’ Commercial Law resource for commercial real Counseling Group. His pracestate owners, investors and tice is concentrated in real clients. CCIMs are part of a estate law and land use reguglobal commercial real estate lation. Chambers USA ranks network with members across Don among Delaware’s most North America and in more respected real estate lawyers. than 30 countries. Donald Isken
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Affiliates UPDATE DPPI was a co-sponsor of the Christiana Care Value Institute Symposium in April
DPPI UPDATE BY JOHN TAYLOR
RETAIL COUNCIL: CONSUMERS NOTCH GAINES AS SOME PRICES DECLINES BY GREG GROSS
The Delaware Public Policy Institute was co-sponsor of the Christiana Care Value Institute Symposium on April 30 at the John Ammon Center. The day-long event featured speakers from Delaware and the nation. The focus was on how health care providers like Christiana Care Health Systems can provide more value to the patients they serve. DPPI Executive Director John Taylor helped to organize and moderate three Democratic Party political debates in May. The first on May 8 was for candidates for mayor of Wilmington. The next featured candidates for New Castle County Council president and the third focused on candidates for New Castle County executive. These two were held May 21.These debates, co-sponsored by the Wilmington Democratic City Committee was seen as a prelude to the Democratic Party primary election in September. At the end of May, Taylor helped to organize and was master of ceremony for a tribute to Rep. Terry Schooley, who retired in January as executive director of Kids Count Delaware. Taylor is a member of the Kids Count board of directors. The event, which was co-sponsored by DPPI and DSCC was a fund raiser for Kids Count.
Retail sales are unlikely to tell the whole story behind the nation’s slow but stable economic recovery. Locally, consumer spending for 2012 is on somewhat sounder footing as everyday prices ease and the labor market strengthens. Macy’s reported a 6-percent increase in sales at their stores and affiliates. It has not been easy to pin down the trajectory of consumer spending lately, which, after all, still is the single biggest part of the economy. One minute consumer credit is jumping due to the summer season and retailers are raising earning targets, and the next minute they are pulling in their horns. There is continuing hope and optimism that retail spending will continue to strengthen through the summer and into the 2012 holiday season. Jobless claims are down for a fourth month in a row. Average hourly earnings have ticked up as well. Confidence is improving at the pump, too. An average price of $3.57 per gallon of gasoline was reported during a May weekend in Newark. While still high, gas prices are unlikely to repeat last year’s run-up—barring a geopolitical upheaval. These are all strong indicators that can help separate the real signal from all the other consumer noise out there. They suggest America’s gradual healing process continues with Delaware leading the way.
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DEMEP Profile Efficiency at Evraz Claymont Steel— which was built in 1917—has improved, with help from DEMEP.
Steely Reserve: DEMEP Helps Rejuvenate Aging Steel Plant BY EILEEN SMITH DALLABRIDA
WITH AN ANNUAL CAPACITY of more than 500,000 tons, Evraz Claymont Steel is North America’s only carbon-plate mini mill, focusing on customers with special product and service needs that are not filled by traditional commodity-oriented steel plate producers. Located on 425 acres fronting the Delaware River, the Claymont plant is specifically configured to provide low-cost steel plate in small-order sizes and non-standard dimensions. The customer base includes service centers, bridge fabricators, manufacturers of railcars, heavy construction machinery, mining equipment, storage tanks, pressure vessels, and shipbuilding. Evraz’s marketplace extends through the United States, Canada and Mexico. But the plant, built in 1917, was showing its age. Maintenance and clutter were issues. Time-worn equipment did not perform reliably, resulting in unplanned downtime. Workers often sacrificed what should have been productive time cleaning up after a previous shift. “There is nothing more frustrating than coming to work and having to make things right before you can even think about being productive,” says Scott Diestelkamp, director of technical services at Evraz. “We needed to make an about-face in our mindset.” DELAWARE BUSINESS
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Evraz’s parent company, based in Russia, is the 15th largest steel maker in the world with steel, mining and vanadium operations in Russia, Ukraine, Europe, South Africa and North America. The mill was selected by Evraz for a pilot program in the A3 format, a methodology that is used to identify a problem, analyze it, formulate corrective actions and devise an action plan. The company received a training grant from the Delaware Economic Development Office. Evraz turned to the Delaware Manufacturing Extension Partnership for assistance in reducing waste throughout their processes while maintaining a reputation of providing high-quality products to customers on time. Accredited by the National Institute for Standards and Technology, DEMEP’s mission is to substantially improve the quality, productivity and profitability of Delaware manufacturers by identifying, transferring and implementing best practices. “At DEMEP, we are wholly committed to helping manufacturers to get better at what they do,” says executive director Steve Quindlen. “We had worked with Evraz on a previous successful lean manufacturing initiative and have developed a relationship of cooperation and trust with the company.” 67
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DEMEP Profile Corporate management provided an executive overview of their vision for improving efficiency by eliminating waste. After reviewing the overview, DEMEP developed a five-day training package that incorporated such procedural tools as check sheets and templates that mill employees work with every day. “A3 is a custom-designed, problem-solving methodology,” says Jim Jones, a DEMEP field agent. “We came up with a program that would address the mill’s specific goals and integrate A3 into the culture of the workplace.” Through the DEMEP program, supervisors learned to write a problem statement that would serve as the launch pad for resolving issues that are an impediment to productivity. That is the first step in the four-step A3 cycle: Plan, do, check and act. “The problem statement is essentially a communications tool and it has proved to be highly effective in clearly defining an issue,” Diestelkamp says. Training days were spaced out over a four-month period. Between sessions, trainees were required to work on a project of their choice, using the problem-solving tools of A3 methodology. At the conclusion of training, each individual did a presentation for mill management and coworkers on the status of their project and how A3 training resulted in finding a solution.
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“DEMEP taught us to take a step back, talk about the problems we encounter in the workplace and then come up with solutions that increase our efficiency,” Diestelkamp says. Input from employees was an essential part of that process. Workers were asked to create to-do lists of what needs to happen for a productive shift. “How does your work area need to be set up so that the next person who works there has a successful shift?” he asks. “The answers to those questions helped us to put housekeeping and organization procedures in place so that people can keep their areas tidy.” The A3 procedures Evraz employees learned from DEMEP empowered the staff to solve expensive, complex problems through clear communication and analysis. For example, problems with the plant’s caster were creating frustrating delays in production. A caster might be compared to a giant Play-Doh machine that takes liquid steel and turns it into a solid product. But mechanical and electrical problems with the machinery were keeping the steel from solidifying properly. “We sat down to document the problems with the caster, develop an action plan to address the issues and strategize their implementation,” Diestelkamp recalled. As it turned out, three separate issues were contributing factors. To resolve the problem, workers did maintenance on the dummy bar used to start the cast, realigned the rollers and performed hydraulic and electrical repairs in the straightener. As a result, caster downtime has been reduced 90 percent. The principles of A3 are now routine procedure at the mill. For example, each time there is an injury on the job, the supervisor must go through the A3 cycle. “What created the injury?” Diestelkamp asks. “What needs to be done so the injury is not repeated?” The transformation has been dazzling. As a result of Evraz’s innovative approach to changing the cultural dynamics of the mill with an emphasis on continual improvement, the Claymont operation went from an underperforming plant to a corporate model. Based on that success, the parent company now plans to roll out A3 training at 10 other plants. To keep the momentum going, Evraz allocated an additional $10 million to the Claymont budget. As a result of increased efficiency, the mill is ideally positioned to meet increased demand for steel generated by an improving economy. Productivity and sales have increased, while costs have decreased. Operations in the melt shop and plate mill increased from 96 hours to 160 hours each week. Instead of two shifts working four days, Evraz is productive 24 hours a day, seven days a week. To keep up with the demand, 125 employees have been added to the payroll. Employee morale has improved dramatically. During a recent tour of the plant, Evraz corporate executives remarked on the energy and enthusiasm of workers. “It is always good to be working for a company that is adding employees and sales,” Diestelkamp says. “Our morale is excellent.” July / Aug us t 2012
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WILL YOU BE THE NEXT
SUPERSTAR IN BUSINESS?
Small Business, Great Big Event
APPLY NOW Visit ssb.dscc.com for the online application Winners will be honored at the 2012 Marvin S. Gilman Superstars in Business Awards
Wednesday, November 14, 2012 Keynote Speaker: Dan Butler, Chef/Owner, Piccolina Toscana
For more information, visit www.dscc.com/superstarsinbusiness Sponsorships and advertising opportunities are available. Call (302) 576-6564 for details.
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CHAMBER Committees & Forums 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: The 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. Benefits & Services Committee: This committee identifies group-oriented benefits, such as health care coverage, dental and vision care, discounted office supplies, phone service, direct mail, radio advertising and much more to help Chamber members be healthy and competitive. Contact: Katie Dunn at (302) 576-6578 or kdunn@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: Denee Crumrine at (302) 576-6564 or dcrumrine@dscc.com. The Employee Relations Committee: This 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: Matt Amis at (302) 576-6566 or mamis@dscc.com.
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Holding Company Committee: Provides a forum to discuss issues affecting Delaware holding companies on the state and national levels. Contact: Matt Amis at (302) 576-6566 or mamis@dscc.com. Legislative Forum: 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. Tax Committee: This 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: The 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 Forum: The Women in Business Forum was formed to forge relationships, break boundaries and build a better business environment for women in our community. Former guest speakers include First Lady Carla Markell, Gov. Ruth Ann Minner, Family Court Chief Judge Chandlee Kuhn, State Reps. and Sens., and business leaders. Contact: Katie Dunn at (302) 576-6578 or kdunn@dscc.com. Young Executives Committee: The Delaware State Chamber of Commerce’s newest committee was formed to encourage young executives in Delaware to be involved in the Chamber, network with other young professionals and further their business growth. The Young Executives Committee, for professionals between the ages of 21 and 40, aims to develop Delaware’s young workforce through professional business networking and personal growth. Contact: Denee Crumrine at (302) 576-6564 or dcrumrine@dscc.com.
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Delaware State Chamber of Commerce
SMALL STATE. BIG BENEFITS. The State Chamber Health Plan The cost of employee health care is a top concern among Delaware business owners. DSCC has devised an affordable, quality health care plan for its members. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Delaware announced new reduced rates and added an additional lower-cost plan choice. Visit www.dscc.com/healthplan. htm today or call (302) 576-6580 for more details. Prescription Drug Discount Card The Delaware Drug Card will provide savings of up to 75-percent on prescription drugs at more than 50,000 pharmacy locations across the country. The Delaware Drug Card has no restrictions to membership, income or age, and you are not required to fill out an application. This program helps all residents of Delaware afford their prescription medications. For more information, go to www.dscc.com/rxdiscount.htm. Payroll Services KTBSPayroll combines innovative technology with seamless administrative solutions, creating a payroll management system that is fully integrated, accurate and easy. With a single point of entry through KTBSOnline technology, KTBSPayroll’s service features offer Chamber Members a fast, accurate and efficient tool that will allow them to spend more time on business needs and less time managing payroll and benefit services, all at a competitive rate. In addition, the first month’s administrative fees are waived for all DSCC Members. For more information, visit KTBSPayroll.com or call Michaela Kammer at 888-8821487.
655-7221 for more information. Certificate of Origin Documents Certificate of Origin documents are $20 for Chamber members ($100 for non-members). Call (302) 655-7221 for more information. Delmarva Broadcasting Company Fifteen-percent in bonus airtime on commercial orders placed by new advertisers on any Delmarva Broadcasting radio station. Contact Mike Reath at mreath@dbcmedia.com or call (302) 4782700 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. Call (800) 598-8791 to apply, mention priority code FABLHRAQ. Dental and Vision Plan Dominion Dental Services provides dental and vision benefits on a group and individual basis with competitive, member-exclusive rates. Dental care coverage for most diagnostic and preventive services is 100 percent with up to 80 percent coverage for restorative care including fillings, root canals, crown and bridge work, periodontal treatment, oral surgery and more. Go to www. dscc.com/chamber/dental_plan.aspx or call (888) 518-5338 for more information. No application fee for DSCC members.
Notary Service 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. W.B. Mason Office Supplies W.B. Mason offers Chamber members exclusive deep discounts off their most commonly used items. Discounts are up to 90 percent. Contact Doreen Miller for more information at doreen.miller@wbmason. com or (888) 926-2766, ext. 8358. Blood Bank Membership Member companies with five employees or less are offered unlimited group coverage in the Blood Bank of Delmarva. Call (302) DELAWARE BUSINESS
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Constant Contact Email Marketing Service State Chamber members are eligible to receive discounts on their Constant Contact account subscriptions. Members can save 20-percent if they prepay for 6 months and 25-percent if they prepay for 12 months. That is a 10-percent deeper discount than what is available to other customers. To sign up, visit the Constant Contact link Member-to-Member on the State Chamber’s members-only Discount Directory page or call (866) 876-8464 to activate your member discount. State Chamber members offer substantial savings on products Access full details on these benefits of and services to fellow members. membership in the members-only section To see the full list of discounts of the DSCC website. For more information online, visit www.dscc.com about obtaining your company’s membersand click on Member2Member only login credentials, please email webDiscounts. master@dscc.com. 71
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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 Email 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 Marianne K. Antonini Sr. Vice President Finance & CFO
576-6560 jwolfe@dscc.com 576-6567 mantonini@dscc.com
A. Richard Heffron Sr. Vice President Government Affairs
576-6563 rheffron@dscc.com
Janine G. Sorbello Sr. Vice President Education & Exec. Director, The Partnership Business Mentoring Alliance Principal for a Day Superstars in Education
576-6575 jsorbello@dscc.com
John H. Taylor, Jr. 576-6590 Sr. Vice President & jtaylor@dscc.com Exec. Director, Delaware Public Policy Institute Matt Amis Communications Manager Delaware Business Production Website Health Care Committee Holding Company Committee
576-6566 mamis@dscc.com
576-6564 dcrumrine@dscc.com
Katie Dunn Communications & Events Associate Women in Business Benefits & Services Committee
576-6578 kdunn@dscc.com
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576-6572 ccorn@dscc.com
576-6569 leriksen@dscc.com
Gregory L. Gross Director of Government Affairs Employee Relations Committee Environmental Committee Legislative Forum Tax Committee Transportation Committee
576-6568 ggross@dscc.com
Chuck James Account Executive Ambassador Committee
576-6562 cjames@dscc.com
Lisa Prickril Events Manager Young Executives Committee
576-6586 lprickril@dscc.com
Arlene M. Simon Account Executive
576-6576 asimon@dscc.com
Bill Stephano Director of Membership
Denee Crumrine Program & Communications Specialist Manager, Small Business Alliance Young Executives Committee Education & Development Committee
Cheryl Corn Sr. Vice President Communications Executive Assistant to the President
Linda D. Eriksen Accounting Associate
576-6574 bstephano@dscc.com
Patrina Wallace Information Secretary
655-7221 pwallace@dscc.com
Miller Publishing, Inc. Fred Miller President, Miller Publishing, Inc. Advertising Sales
576-6579 fmiller2@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 Blog: dscc.wordpress.com facebook.com/delawarestatechamber flickr: flickr.com/dscc twitter: @Destatechamber
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