Thursday, July 26, 2007

August Board Meeting


Downtown Milford, Inc. will hold their monthly Board of Directors meeting on Thursday, August 2nd at 7:00 p.m. at the Milford Public Library Meeting Room. Items on the agenda for that night include reports from Facade & Structural Improvements, House Tour, and Holiday Stroll. The Downtown Milford, Inc. board meetings are open to the public.

Monday, July 23, 2007

Marvel Agency: Existing Business Feature


Marvel Agency, Inc. has been a downtown staple on Walnut Street for 54 years. Since 1977, brothers Harvey Marvel, Jr. and Randy Marvel have owned and managed the business founded by their father, Harvey Marvel, Sr. Their current location, 15 N. Walnut Street was formerly the Milford City Hall and Police Station.

When Marvel Agency was around in the 1960’s and 1970’s downtown was the only retail and business center in Milford. They maintained in place despite a decline in downtown’s popularity during the 1980’s and within the last 10 years have seen the re-birth of a lively business center with offices, cultural institutions, and specialty retail shops. Owner Harvey Marvel cites the commitment of the city government to the streetscape and Riverwalk improvements as a critical component of the current revival.

Marvel Agency is an Independent Insurance Agent, selling all forms of personal and business insurance as well as a Real Estate broker, handling sales and rentals of all types. Their exceptionally trained and experienced staff is comprised of 27 employees, each bringing a different achievement and professional educational designation to the team. Several staff members have multiple decades of experience in their respective fields.

Stop by Marvel Agency during their office hours Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m.-12 noon. Or call them at (302) 422-9626 to schedule an appointment. Visit their website at http://www.marvelagency.com/ to learn more about their business.

Thursday, July 12, 2007

Country Flowers: New Downtown Business


Country Flowers, located at 42 N. Walnut Street, brings a much desired service into the heart of downtown. While owners Bill Payton and Todd Bruce were running their first Country Flowers location in Harrington, a mere eight miles away, their Milford customers repeatedly encouraged them to move to Milford. In January of 2007, Bill and Todd opened their second shop here and have been on the go ever since.

With five employees and extra hires for holidays, Country Flowers’ staff stays busy with the demands of every season. The uniqueness of their arrangements and the ability to make each design special for the intended recipient is just one reason that this small business is successful.

Bill Payton has over 15 years experience in the floral business and doesn’t remember a time when he wasn’t growing, cutting, or arranging flowers. He credits his grandmother for encouraging his passion. Potential customers might be surprised to find that this downtown shop is not only a place for exceptional floral finds, but also offers a wide selection of country décor, candles, balloons, and silk arrangements.

In fact, Country Flowers has really thought of everything when it comes to gift giving options. When looking for something less traditional than flowers, ask the staff about their candy bouquets, junk food, or fruit baskets. Health conscious shoppers need not fret; they will gladly arrange a gift tailored to your loved one. Consistency and class pays off for this local business, just ask their growing customer base, many of whom come from referrals.

Country Flowers is open M-F 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m.-12 noon. If you don’t have time to visit the store location, they will happily take your order over the phone and arrange for delivery. Call the shop at (302) 424-4457.
Pictured above: Country Flowers staff Bill Payton, Nita Watkins, and Todd Bruce.

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

Bug & Bud Festival Receives National Recognition


Travelocity and IgoUgo have named Bug & Bud Festival as one of their 2007 Local Secrets, Big Finds. Ranging from scenic drives and historic towns to fabulous festivals and cultural events, more than 10,000 nominations poured in from around the continent. Bug & Bud Festival, co-sponsored by Downtown Milford, Inc. and City of Milford Parks & Recreation Department, is one of five Delaware picks and one of 295 winners from Travelocity’s editorial team as a best local find.

According to Amy Ziff, Travelocity editor-at-large, “our expansive collection of local secrets is one of the most valuable tools for travelers in search of authentic local flair or unique charm”. Bug & Bud Festival visitors are encouraged to call the Local Secrets, Big Finds insider hotline at (877) 771-2007 to share their recent experiences from the festival.

Visit www.travelocity.com/localsecrets and click on Delaware to see all state winners.