First for Friday, January 31, 2014

Paratransit overhaul
Governor Markell put a lot of emphasis on fixing infrastructure and overhauling the way transportation is run in Delaware. Another part of that transformation is set for public transit as well. For the first time in decades DART will change the way it provides service for those with disabilities. DelDOT calls the design a “right fit” for transit customers. Our First Look reports on that fit, and what disability advocates think of it.

Budget proposal
Creating jobs, fixing infrastructure and other projects were outlined by Governor Markell in his State of the State message. This week the Governor outlined how he wants to pay for them. Here’s a brief look at the 2015 Delaware spending plan.

First Person: City Councilman Bud Freel
Tackling the crime issue and high rate of shootings in Delaware’s largest city is the goal for state, county and city leaders. Many believe they have the answers to the problem. One name you may recognize is that of City Councilman Bud Freel, he’s our First Person this week.

Cold crossing
The phrase “Polar Vortex” is fast becoming one of the most used phrases of 2014, making this January one of the coldest January’s in a decade. For the Cape May Lewes Ferry, the cold has presented some challenges it hasn’t seen in the last 10 years.

State of Play
State of Play reviews Governor Markell’s State of the State message, including help for Delaware distress cities, the ban the box initiative, and the need for infrastructure improvements.

First Experience
First Experience this week thinks outside the box. For eight years, Michael Quattrociocchi has worked perfecting his woodworking craft. He describes the design of his boxes as ‘Mission Japanese’, using beautiful wood and sweeping accents to highlight the natural beauty of the wood rather than ornate carvings. There is more to these boxes than meets the eye and they are as functional as they are beautiful.