Downtown Milford, Inc.

Design Day on Walnut Street

2010-10-25T10:58:00.004-05:00

Please join us for Design Day on Walnut Street

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Historic Architect, Margaret Westfield, will be touring downtown Milford and providing recommendations for improvements to existing properties and facilitating a public presentation on Main Street Design principles.

Design Day is presented by

Downtown Milford, Inc. and Downtown Delaware

2:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.: Guided by the Downtown Milford, Inc. (DMI) program manager, Margaret Westfield shall provide an architectural tour of the Main Street designated area with members of the DMI program, city representatives and interested members of the general public. If you are interested in taking the tour, please meet at the Community Kiosk on S. Walnut Street.

The purpose of the tour is to look at the architectural features and overall characteristics of numerous existing properties and consider what types of physical improvements can be made (with reference to paint, signage, color, material, lighting, etc.) to better market the business and better compliment existing downtown architecture. Margaret Westfield shall provide verbal recommendations to describe improvements wherever desired.

7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.: Public presentation, with slides/visuals, on Main Street Design principles. Architect & Preservation Specialist Margaret Westfield will mention local examples wherever possible. If you are interested in attending the public presentation, it will be held in the Art Gallery of the newly renovated Riverwalk Center for the Arts building - 4 Park Avenue entrance.

About Margaret Westfield

Margaret Westfield, R.A. joined the Historic Preservation Office as the State Historic Architect in September 26th, 1998 and served in that capacity through April, 2000 where she provided technical advice for projects involving major architectural issues and regulatory reviews for the Investment Tax Credit Program.

Margaret Westfield, R.A. is a founding partner and historic architect with Westfield Architects & Preservation Consultants located in Haddon Heights, NJ. Since 1988, her firm has offered traditional full-scope architectural services paired with specialized historic preservation consulting. Emphasis is given to restoration, rehabilitation and preservation planning projects.

She also provides design services for Main Street New Jersey and has worked as a consultant on behalf of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the National Main Street Center.

About Downtown Milford, Inc.

Downtown Milford, Inc. is a volunteer driven 501 (c)(3) non-profit community organization that promotes quality development of the traditional central business district of Milford, Delaware in order to preserve the area's rich historic heritage and bring new life and purpose to the downtown area. Downtown Milford, Inc. is an accredited National Main Street program. For more information on Downtown Milford, Inc., please visit http://www.downtownmilford.org/ or call (302) 839-1180. For more information on the National Main Street program, please visit http://www.preservationnation.org/main-street/.

Thank you for your support!

2010-09-30T08:12:00.004-05:00

On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff of Downtown Milford, Incorporated (DMI), I would like to thank everyone that voted for our “This Place Matters” community photo. Our organization was presented with a chance to compete for a $25,000 grant from the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Everyone’s hard work and support helped keep DMI as a front runner for most of the challenge. Out of 119 organizations competing nationwide in this challenge DMI finished as number 22.

Although, DMI did not take first place for this challenge we still feel honored that our community of neighbors came together to show that they believe Milford is a kind of place where a children’s class inspires leaders, a landscape inspires artists, and a history inspires vision.

With the help of our local media, DMI’s Facebook, Twitter, and our dedicated community members sharing the news about the challenge, DMI received over 600 votes in a period of 3.5 weeks. Again, on behalf of the DMI Board of Directors, staff and volunteers, I sincerely appreciate your votes, time and effort in showing that “This Place Matters.”

As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, DMI relies on financial support from our community, the City of Milford, the State of Delaware, and corporate sponsors. By placing your vote for our "This Place Matters" challenge you have already shown that Milford Matters to you. Please consider placing a donation to DMI to help our organization keep the strong momentum in revitalizing downtown Milford. To donate visit: http://www.tinyurl.com/milfordmatters

Lorraine J. Dion

Executive Director, Downtown Milford , Incorporated

Meet a Downtown Milford Business Owner

2010-09-05T09:49:00.012-05:00

It is 3:00 a.m. and the workday for the owners of Dolce Coffee & Bakery, George Caroll and Chuck Stanko is just beginning. The oven is warming up and their customer’s favorite baked goods are being prepared. By 7:00 a.m. the Dolce awning is up and the open flag is flying. Within moments, a steady stream of “regulars” begin coming in for their favorite coffee, newspaper, and pastry to start the morning off just right. Although, for customers, Dolce isn’t just about coffee it is about having an experience.

The experience involves being immersed into a world where for a few moments you are in a warm, comfortable surrounding and a place where “where everybody knows your name.” Before a customer is even half way through the front door, they are welcomed into Dolce with a genuine smile from owners Chuck and George or one of their staff members Nick and Jocelyn. If you are a new customer, you then have the challenge of choosing which drink and pastry you’d like to try. If you are a “regular”, chances are that the staff or owners already know your favorite items and can begin making your drink before you are even up to the counter.

Chuck and George opened Dolce in January of 2005. “We drove up and down the East Coast looking for a small town with a homey feel that needed a small coffee and bakery shop,” Chuck stated, “Milford just stood out to us.” Soon, Dolce became a leader among downtown businesses by offering a WiFi spot for customers, creating a website, keeping resources local, developing innovative retailing, and giving back to the Milford community.

Over the years, Chuck and George have created scholarships for local arts organizations, contributed to the local community theater, donates all leftover baked goods on week nights to the Milford Senior Center, and even holds fundraising events for local residents in need.

To assist in promoting their fellow downtown merchants and downtown organizations, Dolce created a display sign featuring merchant information that is utilized during the Farmers’ Market and also features a downtown business directory and events section in their monthly e-mail newsletter.

Chuck and George’s passion for keeping resources local is shown through using a local florist and local artist prints for decorating their counters along with using a Delaware based coffee vendor. Dolce’s coffee is roasted fresh every week by Delaware City Coffee Company and shipped overnight for their customer’s enjoyment. Of course, the only thing that can truly compliment a freshly roasted cup of coffee is George’s baking.

“George loves experimenting. Baking is truly an art form for him,” Chuck stated, “He has a passion and creativity that is shown everyday. Dolce’s Gooey Chocolate cookie recently won second place at Rehoboth’s Chocolate Festival. But, the most popular pastry would have to be the Philadelphia Butter Cake or the breakfast cookie.”

If it isn’t the freshly roasted coffee, large amount of latte flavor concoctions, or the delicious pastries that bring customer’s into Dolce every morning then, it has to be the wonderful customer service that is provided. Chuck stated, “We are so lucky to have Nick and Jocelyn working with us.” Between the early morning city council gatherings outside or the family and friends who come once a week to spend an hour of drinking coffee and playing cards, there is never a dull moment in this home town coffee and bakery shop. Dolce’s awning, outdoor customer seating, and colorful flag showing they are open for business has become a welcoming sight to their patrons driving down Walnut Street. Especially, those who travel all the way from D.C. or across the state once a week just for the Dolce experience.

So what’s the scoop on Dolce? Chuck says they are preparing for the Fall season. Look out for George’s famous pumpkin rolls and the addition of pumpkin spice to their drink line up. Also, don’t forget if you have a favorite speciality from the bakery, Dolce is able to accommodate special orders. Just give them a call!

Dolce is located at 35 North Walnut Street in downtown Milford. For more information you can visit http://www.dolcebakery.com or call (302) 422-5760.

“Meet a Downtown Business Owner” will be a monthly newsletter feature, highlighting a different downtown business every month. Stay tuned...

Meet a Downtown Milford Business Owner

2010-08-04T13:35:00.007-05:00

The EcoChic Boutique experience begins on the street. You are drawn in by a visually stimulating awning and window display, and once you step through the door you are immersed into a world of earth friendly living. Everything from the aroma of the products, to the merchandise displays and even the color of the paint on the walls is pleasing for the customer. “It’s not just recycling, it’s up cycling,” stated EcoChic Owner, Teri Carter.

As a wife and mother, Carter began using earth friendly practices and products at home but, noticed most of the products had to be ordered online. One night, Carter was struck with an idea to open a retail business which would give customers a chance to have a real experience with earth friendly products. Carter expressed, “I wanted customers to be able to feel and touch the products rather than just order everything online.”

“I love a challenge and was ready to just go with the idea,” Carter remarked, with that, a search for a retail space began. Being Milford residents, she and her husband knew they wanted to make Milford the home base for the store. “We came across a building in downtown Milford and I just loved the look of it. I knew immediately. It was as if the building spoke to me and four months later the store was open,” she stated.

Carter believes that a great benefit of being in downtown Milford is not just the foot traffic but, the other complimentary businesses within walking distance of her store. “A lot of my customers also tend to be individuals who enjoy coming downtown. For example, they spend their time at the Art League, Dolce, or the Georgia House,” Carter stated.

It has been less than a year since EcoChic opened its doors and Carter’s customers are just as excited as she is about the products. While in the store, one couldn’t help but to overhear a comment from a customer stating, “I can’t even get past this one corner in the store, everything is catching my eye. I only had 15 minutes to come in and shop. But, that is just not enough time!”

Once a EcoChic product photo is uploaded to Facebook, it is almost guaranteed to be bought up the next day. EcoChic sells everything from handbags, jewelry, children’s products, to skin creams and even make up. “I really wanted to take organic personal care to another level, I have an on-site Licensed Esthetician, Hillary Reid of Skin by Hillary, to show customers how they can use EcoChic’s products in their daily lives,” Carter remarked.

So what is next for EcoChic Boutique? Carter gave DMI the inside scoop EcoChic will soon be offering eco-clothing and shoes as well as launching an e-commerce section to their website!

EcoChic Boutique is located at 28 Walnut Street in downtown Milford. For more information, you can visit http://www.shopecochic.com/ or call (302) 422-4580. For more information on “Skin by Hillary” you can click here or call (302) 228-7208.

“Meet a Downtown Business Owner” will be a monthly newsletter feature, highlighting a different downtown business every month. Stay tuned...

Be Part of the Largest State of Delaware “This Place Matters” Photo

2010-07-27T17:14:00.004-05:00

Come gather with your friends, neighbors, and co-workers at the

Mispillion River Pedestrian Bridge by Bicentennial Park

August 12, 2010

8:00 a.m.

Local photographers, Leafo Photo, to take a community photo in Milford for a chance to win the National “This Place Matters” challenge.

Join us in showing that our community believes “Milford Matters.” We are the kind of place where a children’s class inspires leaders, a landscape inspires artists, and a history inspires vision. We are Milford, Delaware. River Town. Art Town. Home Town.

Downtown Milford, Inc.’s “This Place Matters” is part of an initiative by the National Trust for Historic Preservation to help raise awareness about the special places that help to define our national heritage. For more information, please call (302) 839-1180.

NEW 3D Modeling Volunteer Opportunity

2010-07-27T11:42:00.002-05:00

Looking for professionals for a breakthrough opportunity

Downtown Milford, Incorporated (DMI) is seeking volunteers for a “Main Streets in 3D” project. Volunteers will be receiving training from GOOGLE and IGLOO STUDIOS experts on how to use 3D modeling programs such as; Google Earth and Google Sketchup to assist in our downtown revitalization projects. DMI is flexible with work/ school schedules. Volunteers are required to attend a daylong training in Milford, Delaware.

Job responsibilities: Working with the project team to create 3D models of the Downtown Milford area buildings; creating fly through 3D models of Downtown Milford; Assisting DMI staff with recruiting and training new volunteers for the project; additional duties may include taking photos of downtown buildings and working on additional projects using 3D modeling technology

Qualifications: Strong computer skills; Experience with Google Earth, Google Sketchup, or other 3D modeling technology is preferred but not required; Willingness to learn new computer technologies; Good organizational, leadership, time management and problem solving skills; Ability to work independently as well as part of a team; Strong communication skills and able to organize and facilitate group or one-on-one trainings

If interested please contact DMI or email your resume:

Elizabeth Purcell

Phone: (302) 839-1180

Email: Elizabeth@downtownmilford.org

About Downtown Milford, Inc.:

Downtown Milford, Inc. is a volunteer driven 501 (c)(3) non-profit community organization that promotes quality development of the traditional central business district of Milford, Delaware in order to preserve the area’s rich historic heritage and bring new life and purpose to the downtown area. Downtown Milford, Inc. is an accredited National Main Street program. For more information on Downtown Milford, Inc., please visit http://www.downtownmilford.org/. For more information on the National Main Street program, please visit http:// www.preservationnation.org/main-street/.

Downtown Milford, Inc. Selected as a 2010 "Main Streets in 3D" Community

2010-07-21T09:44:00.003-05:00

Volunteers and Staff to Receive Free Training

By Google Sketchup and Earth Experts

Milford, Delaware, July 21, 2010 - The National Trust Main Street Center in collaboration with Google and Igloo Studios has chosen Downtown Milford, Incorporated (DMI) as one of five Main Street Programs nationwide to receive free training in the use of 3D technology to empower the organization's revitalization efforts in the downtown historic commercial district of Milford, Delaware.

More than 1,200 accredited Main Street programs nationwide were given the opportunity to compete for the “Main Streets in 3D" Project. The National Trust Main Street Center and representatives from Google and Igloo Studios, creators of Google Earth and Sketchup, chose the top five Main Street programs with the most innovative and creative ideas for using the Google Sketchup and Google Earth 3D technology in their communities. These communities will receive a free "all day", on-site training session and modeling from the Google and Igloo Studios experts.

“Downtown Milford, Inc. is honored to be chosen as one of the five "Main Streets in 3D" communities and plans to use this training and 3D technology to show business owners facade enhancement options, improve our planning process for our streetscape projects, develop a historic 3D timeline of the downtown area, and to create interactive fly through 3D videos of our downtown area to promote cultural and heritage tourism," stated DMI Executive Director Lorraine J. Dion. “By recruiting recent graduates and high school students to work on this project we hope to engage more youth in our historic downtown.”

Within the next few months, experts from Google and Igloo Studios will come to Milford to train our volunteers and staff members on the use of Google Earth and Sketchup as well as the use of photography to enhance the 3D models. While the Google and Igloo Studios representatives are in Milford, they will also be modeling some of the most complicated historic buildings in downtown Milford. The National Trust Main Street Center commended DMI for its strong community partnerships, engaging the area youth and incorporating Milford's heritage and historic architecture in its proposed projects.

DMI 3D modeling project community partners, to date, include: City of Milford, Delaware Architects, Wagamon Technology Group, LLC, Leafo Photo, Dave Kenton, and photographer Bob Connelly. DMI is actively recruiting volunteers for the project from Delaware Technical & Community College and the University of Delaware.

If you are interested in volunteering for the 3D Modeling project, please contact the DMI office at (302) 839-1180.

Meet a Downtown Milford Business Owner

2010-07-06T12:45:00.007-05:00

Welcome Back Wagamon Technology Group, LLC!

When the fire seven years ago tore through sections of Milford's historic downtown district, Wagamon Technology Group, LLC relocated to a shopping plaza along Route 113. Now, Downtown Milford, Inc. is pleased to welcome back Wagamon Technology Group, LLC to Milford's historic downtown business district.

"I always had the ambition to move back downtown," stated Allan Wagamon, owner of Wagamon Technology Group, LLC, "My building partner and myself were just in the right place and the right time for the opportunity to buy a building downtown. Not even a year later, the remodeling was complete and we were ready to move in."

Wagamon Technology Group, LLC, celebrating 15 years in business, is an IT management company. Although the company will perform home user repair, its primary focus is maintaining networks, servers and offering first class service and support to over 200 customers.

From the beautiful flooring to the great use of color on the walls there is much to be admired in the new office space. But, there is one hidden treasure in Allan Wagamon’s new office that truly shows his passion for Downtown Milford. Hanging next to his desk is a 1938 walking survey map of Milford by William P. Richards. “It’s all about the atmosphere when choosing to work and own a business in Downtown Milford. When I need a break I can take a walk, enjoy the Riverwalk, eventually you meet just about everybody on the street. It’s the hometown feel that draws me downtown,” Wagamon stated.

The new building also has a newly renovated 1,000 square foot office suite that is available for immediate occupancy. An exposed brick wall and wooden staircase leads visitors to a great view overlooking Downtown Milford. For more information on this space or to view this space please contact Allan Wagamon (302) 222-0270 or Bill Krieg (302) 542-0816.

Please join DMI in welcoming back Wagamon Technology Group, LLC. We are proud to have you as part of our community.

“Meet a Downtown Business Owner” will be a monthly newsletter feature, highlighting a different downtown business every month. Stay tuned...

Downtown Milford Businesses Featured in Best of Delaware 2010

2010-06-22T09:38:00.005-05:00

Please join us in congratulating 4 of our Downtown businesses for being featured in Delaware Today's "Best of Delaware 2010."

Abbott's Grill received several recognitions. They were voted: Readers Choice - Best Restaurant in Milford; Critics Choice - Best New Restaurant Downstate; Critics Choice - Best Pasta Dish Downstate (Pumpkin Gnocchi)

EcoChic Boutique was voted Critics Choice - Greenest Store Downstate

Lou's Bootery was voted Readers Choice - Best Shoe Store for Kids Downstate

The Victorian Lady Tea Room was voted Readers Choice - Best Tea Room Downstate

Congratulations to Abbott's Grill, EcoChic, Lou's Bootery and the Victorian Lady Tea Room for this great honor and thank you to all of our downtown businesses for all of your hard work!

Downtown Open House

2010-06-08T12:27:00.003-05:00

Downtown Open House

June 9, 2010 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Our downtown businesses will be open for business; the vacant buildings will be open for a potential tenant or buyer to view.

If all that sounds great but, you want to know how to get the funding to start a small business we are also going to have on hand Commercial lenders to speak with, information on the Small Business Administration and the new USDA money information plus, First State Community Loan Fund will be represented to discuss your ideas and what is available for you.

The entire downtown will be open which includes a variety of businesses ranging from EcoChic Boutique to The Georgia House Restaurant to Wagamon Technology Group.

If you have a business idea and would like to research this area, then Wednesday night is the night for you to come to Downtown Milford. Realtors and Lenders on hand to discuss your idea.

Plus, fun door prizes will be given away! Hope to see you there!

Please Help Support DE's Historic Tax Credit Program

2010-06-01T12:35:00.005-05:00

Take Action for the Delaware State Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program

The Delaware Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program is scheduled to sunset the end of June. The bill to reauthorize the program for another ten years has passed the Senate and will come before the Delaware House of Representatives sometime in the next few weeks.

BACKGROUND

During the past ten years, the Delaware Historic Tax Credit Program has leveraged more than $166 million in private-sector rehabilitation of Delaware's older and historic buildings while creating an estimated 2,400 jobs! The very nature of historic rehabilitation is that it creates local jobs which in turn foster strong neighborhoods and communities. We need support for legislation that will continue to protect and preserve places that matter in Delaware as well as create jobs and spur community revitalization and sustainability.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Please contact your state Representative and ask them to support the bill to extend the Tax Credit Program (SB209w/SA#1). To find out who your State Representative is please click here. To find contact information for your State Representative please click here.

For more information on the effectiveness and social benefits of the Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program, please contact Waller Gallas at the Northeast Field Office of the National Trust for Historic Preservation or Terry Graham at Preservation Delaware.

SAMPLE LETTER

Dear XXX,
I am writing to ask for your support in extending the current Historic Preservation Tax Credit Program. The legislation (SB209w/SA#1) that will soon be considered will extend the current program for another 10 years.

During the life of the program, the Delaware Historic Tax Credit Program has leveraged more than $166 million in private-sector rehabilitation for Delaware's older and historic buildings while creating an estimated 2,400 jobs! The very nature of historic rehabilitation is one that creates local jobs which in turn fosters strong neighborhoods and communities.

Please consider supporting this legislation that serves to create jobs and spur community revitalization and sustainability while ensuring the protection and preservation of the places that matter to present and future Delawareans!

Straight Off the Top at Milford's Annual Bug & Bud Festival

2010-04-25T10:54:00.003-05:00

Straight Off the Top jazz band performing at yesterday's 7th Annual Bug & Bud Festival.

Calling All Fine Artists, Artisans and Musicians!

2010-04-21T21:26:00.004-05:00

Downtown Milford Inc. of Milford, DE is proud to bring back the fun and successful Riverwalk Arts & Jazz outdoors summer fine arts series! After a very snowy winter, the first day of this exciting exhibition will soon be here. Riverwalk Arts & Jazz is looking for musicians, poets, fine artists/artisans and performers to participate sell their work and showcase their talents! This event will be held the fourth Saturday of each month beginning May 22nd and running through September. Each event will be from 11:00 am- 8:00 pm, music will continue until 9:00pm. Fine artists, artisans and performers will exhibit and perform throughout the businesses, streets and Riverwalk of beautiful, historic Milford, Delaware.

Entries are subject to jury so interested artists should submit audio or visual samples of their work, either digitally via email, to dmi@downtownmilford.org, or CD format by mail to Riverwalk Arts & Jazz, c/o DMI, 7 South Washington St., Milford, DE 19963, no later than May 1st. Artists can pick up registration forms at Angelucci Fine Woodwork & Stained Glass Gallery, 7 Park Ave., Milford or download a form by clicking here. You may also call DMI (302) 839-1180 to request a form by mail.

For more information on Riverwalk Arts & Jazz visit: http://www.downtownmilford.org/riverwalk_arts_jazz.html

Downtown Milford Welcomes New Executive Director & Assistant to the Executive Director

2010-04-20T12:59:00.005-05:00

Downtown Milford would like to welcome its new Executive Director, Lorraine Dion. Lorraine was the first to be a Nationally Certified Main Street Manager in the State of Delaware. She has over 22 years of experience starting and working with a variety of downtown programs and initiatives. She has worked successfully in the Dover Main Street Program and more recently, the Middletown Main Street Program. DMI is thrilled to have such an experienced Director join our organization. Welcome Lorraine!

In addition, Downtown Milford, Inc would also like to welcome Elizabeth Purcell as its new Assistant to the Executive Director. Elizabeth is a graduate of University of Delaware and was born and raised in Milford. She has most recenlty served as an Americorps VISTA member at the Delaware Economic Development Office. Elizabeth is honored to have the opportunity to give back to her hometown.

This Place Matters

2010-04-20T12:26:00.008-05:00

Let your community know "What places in Milford Matter to you!"

Suppose someone approached you on the streets of Milford and asked you the simple question, “What places in Milford matter to you?” How would you answer? Would you choose a place that is a regular part of your life, such as a neighborhood home, store, or public building? Maybe you would choose a place where you have shared special moments, like a church, or restaurant, or even a shady tree beside the river. Perhaps it would simply be a unique building that brings a smile of admiration to your face when you pass by.

Your own answer to this question is exactly what Downtown Milford Incorporated (DMI) wants to know. DMI is launching its own version of a national campaign, entitled “This Place Matters”. Started by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, “This Place Matters” is a movement which aims to help people across the country to celebrate the places that make their towns special and better places to live.

To be a part of "This Place Matters" simply:

First, pick up a “This Place Matters” sign from the DMI office across from the library at 7 South Washington Street. Signs also will available at the DMI Information Booth at the Bug & Bud Festival on April 24^th,the monthly Downtown Jazz & Arts Festival, and the Milford Farmer’s Market throughout the spring and summer.

Next, you place the sign in front of a building or place in Milford that matters to you.

You then take a photograph and deliver it in person to the DMI office or by email (dmi@downtownmilford.org). We encourage people to pose in their own photos, as people make the pictures more interesting. We also would appreciate a brief statement as to WHY the place matters to you.

DMI members and staff intend to select as many photos as possible for display. The initial display will be in the window of 23 North Walnut Street. The goal is to gather a diverse collection, incorporating as many unique perspectives as possible on the statement, “This Place Matters”. The Chronicle will join the program by printing photographs throughout the year.

Local Physician and DMI board member Mitch Edmondson is leading the effort to make “This Place Matters” a success in Milford. According to Dr. Edmondson, the Milford version of “This Place Matters” has an historical precedent. “When we started planning this project, several members recalled that many historical photographs in the collection of the Milford Historical Society featured a Milford resident who posed in his own pictures. This discussion led us to local historian David Kenton, who was able to confirm the identity of this photographer, Mr. Andrew Komoroski. Mr. Komoroski was a Polish immigrant, whose family arrived in Milford in 1895. He became the most prolific photographer of Milford scenes between 1910 and 1935. Mr. Kenton and the Milford Historical Society provided us with digital versions of many of Mr. Komoroski’s photographs. We are enlarging them and giving them their own prominent display, right beside our contemporary photographs. We hope to inspire our own Andrew Komoroskis of the twenty-first Century!”

So start looking closely at the places that surround you. Perhaps Milford’s new slogan, “Milford – River Town, Art Town, Home Town” can serve as inspiration. What places would leave Milford a less interesting or inviting place if they did not exist? What places make Milford…Milford? Pull out those cameras and show the rest of our community that “This Place Matters”.

For more information, contact the Downtown Milford, Inc. office at 302-839-1180.

7th Annual Bug & Bud Festival

2010-04-20T11:24:00.006-05:00

Ladybug Parade, Ladybug Paddle Boats & MUCH MORE!

On, Saturday, April 24, 2010, from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., the City of Milford Parks and Recreation Department & Downtown Milford, Inc. invite you to join the fun at the 7th Annual Bug & Bud Festival, presented by festival title sponsor Wilmington Trust, along the Mispillion RiverWalk in historic downtown Milford, Delaware.

Festival highlights are the traditional ladybug walking parade with prizes for best “ladybug” and “tree” costumes, diverse musical entertainment throughout the day such as Soul Selby, the Nanticoke Indian Association and the fifty-member Milford Community Band as well as more than 100 plus arts and crafts vendors, a Kid’s Korner, remote control boats, a youth bass fishing contest, an art show, and “green-themed” and nature related hands-on activities including seedling tree giveaways – just to name a few!

Back by popular demand are “ladybug decorated” paddle boat rides and the FREE 5:00 p.m. jazz concert. This year’s concert performers are the highly acclaimed jazz group Straight Off The Top sponsored by Citizens Bank.

RAIN or SHINE and FREE of charge, you won’t want to miss this “over-the-top” outdoor festival! Come listen to some great music, eat some great food, cruise in a lady bug paddle boat, don your lady bug costume for the parade, shop local and most important of all - “think ladybug!”

For more information, contact the Downtown Milford, Inc. office at 302-839-1180 or visit www.downtownmilford.org and follow the festival links.

Ladybugs on the move!

2009-10-13T09:00:00.002-05:00

Follow the ladybugs down the block to LadyBug Shop's new location at 23 NW Front Street Downtown Milford. LadyBug Shop will still be open during regular business hours, Wednesday through Friday from 10AM-6PM and Saturday from 10AM-2PM. The new location will feature a wider variety of unique gifts including seasonal gifts, ladybug gifts, turtle gifts and much more! Join us for our Grand Re-Opening Friday November 6th.

Ladybug Coloring Contest

2009-03-04T12:54:00.001-05:00

The LadyBug Shop is holding a Ladybug Coloring Contest. The Ladybug Coloring Contest has two age divisions, Division 1, ages 3-6, and Division 2, ages 7-12. The Ladybug Coloring Contest is being held until March 31, 2009. The winner of each division will be decided by Dan and Rhonda Bond and will receive the new Ladybug Doodle Bug Drawing Pad. The Ladybug Coloring Contest Rules are as follows, all drawings must be original artwork, all drawings must be received by March 31st, one entry per person, the artist must use crayons, colored pencils and or markers, artist must use plain white paper (no predrawn lines), and each artist must have tons of ladybuggin' fun!

You may drop off or mail your artwork to LadyBug Shop 131 NW Front Street, Milford, DE 19963, or scan us your image and email it to us at shopladybugshop@gmail.com. Make sure to include the child's name, age, contact information and mailing address.

No artwork will be returned, by sending LadyBug Shop the artwork you authorize us to use the artwork in publications at our sole discretion.

Causey Mansion Holiday Open House

2008-11-20T14:41:00.006-05:00

Visit downtown Milford on Saturday, December 13th & see Causey Mansion dressed for the holidays. Causey Mansion's holiday open house will take place from 5-9 p.m. Admission is $5 at the door and all funds collected will be donated to Kent-Sussex Industries.

The first floor of Causey Mansion will be open for holiday tours and the dining room centerpiece is a Causey Mansion gingerbread house. A variety of homemade sweets will be served and each visiting child will receive a small gift.

Join Causey Mansion, located at 2 Causey Avenue in Milford, Delaware, as they celebrate the holidays and give back to a great local organization. For more information about this event call 302-422-0979.

LadyBug Shop Holiday Sharing Program

2008-11-06T16:44:00.002-05:00

Downtown Milford, Inc. member LadyBug Shop is giving back to the community by offering a Holiday Sharing Program for not for profit organizations. Not for profit organizations can contact LadyBug Shop to fill out an application and be approved. When participants come in to shop and other affiliates come in to shop at the LadyBug Shop 5% of the instore purchases will be donated back to the organization. The Holiday Sharing Program runs now through December 31st.
Stop by LadyBug Shop in Downtown Milford to pick up the Holiday Sharing Form. Have fun shopping this holiday season at LadyBug Shop!

For specific questions about the LadyBug Shop's Holiday Sharing Program please contact the store directly at 302-422-5470. For information on other Downtown Milford businesses visit DMI's website at http://www.downtownmilford.org/.

Pumpkin Painting at Alive After Five

2008-10-31T10:56:00.006-05:00

On October 23rd, Downtown Milford offered Free Pumpkin Painting for children of all ages at Nancy's Fine Foods. The Pumpkins were donated by a farm in Virginia. Each child received a free pumpkin and painting supplies and went to town painting! The Pumpkin Painting offered during Downtown Milford's Alive After 5 was a hit! While patrons waited for their pumpkins to dry, they browsed the local Crafters' Market and other various stores. The entire event was sponsored by Downtown Milford, Inc. Look for more sponsored events during the Alive After 5 Promotion in the local newspapers. Or contact Beth Durham at 302-839-1180.

Downtown Merchants Offer Alive After Five Specials

2008-10-09T12:54:00.003-05:00

Each Thursday through December 18th, a variety of downtown Milford businesses will stay open for extended business hours. One of the participants is downtown Milford's LadyBug Shop. Stop in LadyBug Shop any Thursday during Downtown Milford's Alive After Five to enter your name into their FREE raffle. Winners will be drawn once a month. The September Winner of the LadyBug Shop Raffle is Maureen Panico. Maureen won a cute and cuddly soft winter "Bugsby Bear". Visit LadyBug Shop anytime at http://www.ladybug-shop.com/.

Community Invited to Participate in Visioning

2008-08-22T13:09:00.000-05:00

All Milford community members including residents, business owners, and organizations are invited to attend a visioning session for downtown Milford, which will be hosted by Downtown Milford, Inc. (DMI) and Delaware Main Street, a program of the Delaware Economic Development Office. This session will provide an opportunity to gain the community’s perspective on what the downtown could look like , how it could function, how it might be different or better ten or twenty years from now.

Visioning is part of a larger strategic planning process that the DMI Main Street program is undertaking this fall as they develop plans and activities for the next year and several years beyond. The responses to questions such as “What kinds of retail opportunities exist for downtown Milford?” and “What are several of the downtown greatest assets?” offer insights as to what kinds of businesses might be successful and what should be preserved in the downtown.

The visioning process serves to bring community members together in an attempt to address issues proactively, develop strategies and policies for change, enrich citizen involvement in the planning process, and envision new opportunities and possibilities for downtown. All participants' ideas will be welcomed without criticism so plan to take part in this interactive and informal event that will help to shape the future of Milford's downtown.

The downtown Milford visioning is scheduled for Wednesday, September 10th from 7-9 p.m. in the First Presbyterian Church social hall located at 101 South Walnut Street. Parking is available in public lots on the side and back of the building. Pre-registration is requested so please let us know of your intention to attend by e-mailing milfordvision@gmail.com or calling 302-839-1180.

Card & Game Party Slated

2008-03-10T11:42:00.005-05:00

The GFWC Milford New Century Club will once again host their Card & Game Party. The event will be held Tuesday, April 1st at 1:00 p.m. in their Club House located at 18 Church Street. Tickets for the Card & Game Party are $5 and can be purchased by calling 302-422-3566. "Queen of Hearts" Doris Hoover is planning refreshments and raffle prizes. Raffle tickets can be purchased at the door.

Proceeds from the event will help support the club's various community service projects. The General Federation of Women's Clubs is an international women's organization dedicated to community improvement by enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service.

New Mispillion Art League Gallery

2007-12-05T09:58:00.000-05:00

The Mispillion Art League finally has it own permanent gallery! On December 1st, the League signed a lease for gallery and class room space at 127 NW Front Street—in the recently rehabilitated Governor Tharp Building. The building is located at the corner of NW Front and Church Streets. There is ample off-street parking behind the building. (The lot is accessed from Church Street which is one-way going south.)

The public opening of the new gallery will be this Friday during the Downtown Holiday Stroll organized by Downtown Milford Incorporated. From 5 to 8 PM on Friday downtown merchants on Walnut and Front Streets are staying open late to welcome holiday shoppers. Santa’s House will be open for the kids. There will be Horse Drawn Wagon Rides throughout the night sponsored by Dave Wilson of Wilson's Auction. Through out the evening the will be performances by Milford's Christmas Carol Band, Second Street Players Carolers, the First Presbyterian Church, Jesus Love Temple, Hand Bell Ringers, Zwaanendael Dance Academy and Delaware Music School.

So don’t forget to visit NW Front Street for the Mispillion Art League’s Gallery opening, plus stop by at the LadyBug Shop (131 NW Front in the Tharp Building) and the Victorian Lady Tearoom (112 NW Front, the Marshall Building). There will also be live Christmas Jazz by guitarist Phil Henry throughout the evening at the Governor Tharp building.

New Year's Dinner & Dance

2007-11-29T13:57:00.000-05:00

St. John's Church located at Seabury Avenue and School Place in Milford, Delaware has just announced plans for a New Year’s Eve Dinner & Dance. The event will be held December 31st from 7 pm to 12:15 am. Tickets for the night are $40 per person and include dinner and snacks throughout the evening. Swing City will provide the music for dancing. Anyone interested in purchasing tickets for the event can call 302-422-5123 ext. 13. Make your reservations for single tickets or whole tables today.

People's Day Events

2007-11-21T14:36:00.000-05:00

People's Day is an annual event held throughout downtown Milford, Delaware to celebrate services to people in Milford. A variety of events and entertainment have been planned for 2007 People's Day on Saturday, December 1st. They include:

7:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Holiday Bazaar including book sale and entertainment at the Milford Public Library.

7:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. People's Place 8th Annual Choral Breakfast at the Milford Senior Center featuring Musical Performances, All-You-Can-Eat Breakfast, Holiday Gift Shop, Community Service Fair, Poinsettia Sale, and Visit from Santa (7:30-10:30 a.m.). Tickets for the choral breakfast are $6 for adults, $3 for children 12 & under, under 3 free. Or, concert only tickets can be purchased for $3. All tickets can be purchased by calling 422-8033 ext. 183.

10:00 a.m.-4:00 pm. Special Exhibits at the Milford Museum to include Iwo Jima, Milford History, and Holiday displays.

11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Family Fun Day at the Boys & Girls Club. Stop by for games and activities, youth talent show, Santa shop, and poinsettia sale.

11:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. Santa will be in residence at his house located on S. Walnut Street near the Riverwalk.

1:00-4:00 p.m. $1 off general admission, with free parent passes, at the Milford Skating Center.

All Day -Raffles, Sales, and Specials at downtown businesses.

3:00 p.m. "She Loves Me" performance by Second Street Players at Riverfront Theatre.

6:00 p.m. Holiday Glow hosted by Mayor Rogers in Bicentennial Park. This event is presented by the City of Milford.

7:30 p.m. "The Nutcracker" by Diamond Dance Company at Milford High School.

8:00 p.m. "She Love Me" performance by Second Street Players at Riverfront Theatre.

People's Day is brought to you by: Boys & Girls Club, City of Milford, Chamber of Commerce, Diamond Dance Company, Downtown Milford, Inc., Milford Museum, Milford Public Library, Milford Senior Center, Milford Skating Center, People's Place, and Riverfront Theatre.

Questions about the events may be directed to 422-8033 ext. 183.

Santa Claus is Coming to Town!

2007-11-19T14:29:00.000-05:00

The Santa House sponsored by Downtown Milford, Inc. is busy preparing for Santa's arrival. Santa will come to town on the first Saturday after Thanksgiving which falls this year on November 24th. As in year's past, visitors can find Santa and Mrs. Claus at home in their little red house along the Mispillion Riverwalk, just off S. Walnut Street in downtown Milford. A variety of volunteers have been busy cutting and sewing stockings as well as filling those stockings with candy.

Santa will be in residence downtown each Friday from 6-8 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., and Sundays from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. throughout the holiday season. He'll head North after 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 23rd.

Milford's own Christmas Carol Band will be on site Saturday, November 24th from 10:30-11:00 a.m. to welcome Santa to town. On Saturday, December 1st, the First State Harmonettes will perform from 10:30-11:00 a.m.

There is no charge for visiting Santa. Each child receives a photo, a stocking filled with candy, and an entry into the weekly drawing for a $100 savings bond.

Any questions about the Santa House can be directed to DMI Executive Director, Beth Durham at 302-839-1180.

The Bed Chambers Black Friday Sale

2007-11-19T13:58:00.000-05:00

The Bed Chambers located in Downtown Milford, Delaware is hosting their first ever in-store AND online combo sale. On Black Friday, shoppers at the Penney Square location can take advantage of 20% off everything in the store from 7:00-11:00 a.m. For those internet shoppers, don't fret. You can take advantage of the store sale by entering a special promotions code at check-out. All online shoppers can enjoy 20% off everything on the website from 7:00-11:00 a.m. by entering "BFS-23".

The Bed Chambers has made it easy to shop for your holiday gift list while managing to save you money on high quality and high demand items. Items included in the sale include: Spanx, The Cat's Pajamas, Beanpod Soy Candles, Robes, Day Wear, Loungewear, and more!

For those television fans, you may recognize Spanx from the Oprah Show. Also, given much national recognition is The Bed Chambers' product line of The Cat's Pajamas. The pjs have been featured on Will & Grace, Gilmore Girls, Dawson's Creek, and Buffy The Vampire Slayer just to name a few. The Bed Chambers is one of only two locations in Delaware at which shoppers can purchase these Hollywood favorites.

The Bed Chambers can be reached at 302-422-2902. Happy Shopping!

Festive Events at the Library

2007-11-14T14:53:00.000-05:00

The Milford Public Library, located in downtown Milford, Delaware, is preparing for a busy holiday season. The very popular Christmas Tree Extravaganza will run from November 30th to January 2nd. Visitors are encouraged to vote on their favorite tree by a money donation. All monies collected will be given to a local family and selected senior citizens who are experiencing some temporary hardships. Even if you aren't able to donate, you are encourage to enjoy the Christmas ambiance of over a dozen decorated trees placed throughout the library.

The Holiday Bazaar will be held December 1st from 7:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. to coincide with People's Day. The Friends of the Milford Public Library operate the bazaar and offer many new and used items for sale.

Tuesday, December 4th at 7:00 p.m. brings the delightful musical sounds of Kevin Hubbard. The classical guitar concert with a touch of jazz will include favorites such as "Malaguena", "Aspirations" and the Christmas songs: Greensleeves (What Child is This) and Silent Night. This is a great way to start off your family holiday season.

Holiday Stroll is by far one of the largest downtown events and the Milford Public Library will be open that night with the Friends of the Library "Coffee Boutique" with sweet treats available on the lower level. The Holiday Bazaar will also be open for any holiday purchases.

Rounding out the season's events is Holiday Hors d'oeuvres on December 12th at 7:00 p.m. The annual demonstration of hors d'oeuvres and canapes will provide tips that are sure to delight your guests during the year's busiest season. Chef Phil from "Looking Glass Restaurant" will host the event. Registration is a necessity as samples will be given and seating is limited.

Fore more information about any of the events listed here, please contact the Milford Public Library directly at 422-8996.

Uptown and Over South Exhibit

2007-10-15T13:54:00.000-05:00

The Black History Society, a group dedicated to the chronicling of the history of the African-American citizens of Milford and its surrounding area, is sponsoring an exhibit entitled: "Uptown and Over South" in conjunction with The Milford Historical Society and the Milford Museum.

The exhibit currently consists of photographs of Uptown citizens and their daily lives along with churches, schools, businesses, social activities, sports, etc. The centerpiece of the exhibit is a trombone belonging to a locally famous musician and member of a noted African-American marching band known during the early to mid 1900's as "The Orange Blossom Band". Along with the trombone, a thumb nail history is provided.

A photographic collage DVD entitled "Uptown and Over South" is available for viewing which includes touching photographs of Uptown citizens set to provocative music. All are invited to rediscover this small glimpse of local history.

For further information, please contact the Milford Museum at 302-424-1080.

Community Band Fundraiser

2007-09-25T13:47:00.000-05:00

The Milford Community Band is currently selling 2008 Entertainment Books to raise money for their programs. While all of their performers are volunteers, the group fundraises to help defray the costs of purchasing music and other much needed items.

The 2008 Entertainment Book sells for $30. Every book sold will raise $15 for the Band. Coupons in the book cover cities from Wilmington to Ocean City and several downtown Milford favorites are also included.

The Milford Community Band performs throughout the year in Downtown Milford, Delaware as well as in various other cities around the state. You may have seen them earlier this year at the 4th Annual Bug & Bud Festival or during the Music in the Park series. Also, look for their performance at the Santa House in early December and Holiday Stroll on December 7th from 5-8 p.m.

To support this local band by purchasing a 2008 Entertainment Book, call Kay Meade at 302-422-2395.

Oktoberfest Coming Fast!

2007-09-21T13:37:00.000-05:00

Looks like Fall and St. John’s Oktoberfest will arrive together! The 17th Annual Oktoberfest will begin on Friday, October 5th at 6 p.m. The ‘Jones Boys’ from Seaford will kick off the festivities this year!

Dancing to the music of the Jones Boys is sure to work up an appetite. You won’t go hungry because the ever popular Oktoberfest International food court will be serving up their traditional German entrees, along with Italian, Spanish, Polish, Filipino and American Cuisine. Sounds like something to satisfy everyone’s taste and mostly all “homemade”.

Returning to Milford on Saturday afternoon will be the internationally famous, Joe Kroboth German Orchestra, who started at the very first Oktoberfest in 1989.

On Saturday, festivities begin at 10:00 a.m. with helicopter rides and entertainment to carry you through the entire day. There will be many games, horse rides, and a petting zoo for the children.

Entertainment will run through the day on Saturday. Three major highlights will be the Enzian Folk Group (German dancers) from Reading, Pennsylvania, the Milford Community Band and “Pink Grass”, an all female group playing Blue Grass Music. Everyone’s favorite, The Honey Combs will take center stage to wrap up the weekend festivities.

Mark your calendar for the 17th Annual Oktoberfest Weekend: October 5th and 6th at St. John’s Church located on the corner of Seabury Avenue and School Place in Milford. For more information call 422-5123, ext. 13.

Breast Cancer Tea

2007-09-10T12:35:00.000-05:00

The Victorian Lady located in downtown Milford, Delaware will host a special Breast Cancer Tea during October in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For $35, each guest will be treated to The Queen's Tea which includes a personal pot of tea, soup, fruit, a delicious scone served with lemon curd & Devon cream, assorted finger sandwiches, and assorted desserts.

The Susan G. Komen Foundation will receive $15 from the cost of each tea and an additional 20% of the days gift shop proceeds. A breast cancer survivor will be on hand to share her experiences while traveling this path.

The Breast Cancer Tea hosted by The Victorian Lady provides a wonderful chance to enjoy an afternoon with friends while supporting a great cause. To obtain reservations or for more information, please call 302-424-8272. The Victorian Lady is located at 112 N.W. Front Street in downtown Milford, Delaware. Seating is limited so make your reservation early.

Botox Pajama Party

2007-08-24T12:23:00.000-05:00

Downtown Milford business The Bed Chambers is partnering with Attitudes Medi Spa to bring you a unique and fun-filled evening. Thursday, August 30th from 6:00-8:00 p.m. The Bed Chambers and Attitudes Medi Spa will host a Botox Pajama Party at 808 Seabury Avenue in Milford, Delaware.

Guests can relax and have fun with friends while enjoying decadent chocolate, beautifying with Botox, and of course shopping for new sleepwear items. As an added bonus, shoppers will receive 10% off Bed Chambers merchandise and $50 off Botox all night long.

RSVP is required for this special evening. Interested participants can call 302-422-3356 for more information.

Photography Exhibit

2007-08-13T13:57:00.000-05:00

A Photography Exhibit Open Reception will be held Thursday, August 23, 2007 at Angelucci Fine Woodworking & Stained Glass. The exhibit will be open from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at the 7 Park Avenue location in Downtown Milford, Delaware.

Digital and Black & White Film students will have their works on display. The Digital Class photographers include Diane Riley Brown, Dean P. Geyer, Kristie Hazel, Margaret Melson, and Barbara Rowe. The Black & White Film Class photographers are Jessica Daleiden, Jamie Holzman, Michelle Peters, and Tejas Sheth.

Instructor Marc Clery is a professional photographer experienced in photojournalism, commercial, wedding, portraiture and fine art photography. The heart of his work is his pursuit of photography as a medium of artistic expression and a means of examining the human condition.

Currently the Director of Photography at the Delaware Coast Press, Clery has received numerous awards from such professional organizations as the National Press Photographers Association, the Florida Press Association and the Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Press Association. He has worked with The Miami Herald ,The Vero Beach Press-Journal, The Wilmington, Del. News-Journal and the Delaware State News and his work has also been published in USA Today, The Washington Post, The Philadelphia Inquirer, and The Wall Street Journal newspapers and in Delaware Today and Wine magazines.

Clery started his full-time career in photojournalism in 1978 with The Milford Chronicle, where he was the first and only full-time photographer. “The Chronicle gave me a sense of community that has stayed with me throughout my photojournalism career,” he said.

Marc's photography can be viewed at http://www.marcclery.com/. He can be contacted at 302-228-8616 or via e-mail at fstpo8@comcast.net.

Pictured above: The 2006 Capturing Light Photography class images.

President's Message

2007-08-13T13:42:00.000-05:00

Progress is “positive movement”. I am happy to report that Downtown Milford, Inc. (DMI) is making progress in all areas of operation. Some of that positive movement is at a speed we are all pleased with; other movement is slower than expected, but is movement nonetheless.

Since my last message, Dan and Rhonda Bond completed their amazing renovation of the “Governor Tharp Building” at the corner of NW Front and Church Streets. This total rehabilitation of one of Milford’s most historic structures surprised many skeptics who saw only condemnation and demolition in the building’s future. The work was financed in part through monies obtained through DMI. The building now houses offices and the LadyBug Shop on the ground level and five modern apartments on the upper levels.

The week of April 28-May 4 was “Ladybug Week”. It started with the most successful “Bug & Bud Festival” ever and culminated with the “Ladybug Gala & Auction” at which many thousands of dollars were raised for DMI and our partner, the Mispillion Art League--all through ticket sales and the auction of the 15 ladybug art forms that had been on display in local businesses prior to the Festival.

Slower progress, yet progress still, is being made in our two main projects. In partnership with the City of Milford, DMI hopes to complete the process of making Milford a “Main Street” community as soon as the state Main Street Office prepares its new application and schedules a training session for prospective members. While DMI emulates a traditional main street community in its current operations, membership will bring much-needed consultative advice to help us better manage in the future. Information about the nation-wide Main Street Program can be found on their website at www.mainstreet.org.

Slow but sure progress is also being made on the extension of the “Streetscape” project on N.E. Front Street, from Washington Street to the renovated Riverwalk Shopping Center. This project will involve the burying of utility lines, removal of utility poles, rebuilding the street surface, and creating sidewalks, plantings, benches, and lighting similar to what we did in the first phases on Walnut and N.W. Front Streets. This project will be funded through the generous help of our local state legislators, Senator Gary Simpson, Representative V. George Carey, and Representative Bob Walls and the in-kind contributions of the City of Milford.

Finally, you may have noticed the unruly bushes along the sidewalks in downtown have been removed by the City. In the near future they will be replaced by annuals and perennials chosen and paid for by DMI’s streetscape improvement fund.

All this work is carried out by our dedicated Executive Director, Beth Durham, and our many volunteers. Ongoing work and future projects will need additional volunteers. Please contact us if you can give a lot or a little of your time.

Pictured above: Downtown Milford, Inc's Board of Directors President, Mitch Crane

Farmers' Market Week Proclamation

2007-08-06T12:21:00.000-05:00

Governor Ruth Ann Minner has signed a proclamation declaring August 5 through August 11 as Farmers’ Market Week in the State of Delaware.

The Delaware Department of Agriculture (DDA) strongly supports and promotes the development, operation and expansion of First State markets and the “Grown Fresh with Care in Delaware” campaign, as well as other direct-to-consumer marketing activities for Delaware’s agricultural producers. Gov. Minner and Agriculture Secretary Michael Scuse recognize that farmers’ markets provide farmers with excellent marketing opportunities while providing consumers with delicious, nutritious, fresh-picked local fruits and vegetables.

There are currently 10 farmers’ markets throughout the state of Delaware offering consumers a variety of fruits and vegetables, herbs, cheeses, flowers baked goods, meat and much more.

The growth in Delaware farmers’ markets reflects the national trend. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the number of farmers’ markets nationally increased more than 7 percent between 2005 and 2006.The new numbers are based on an update of the National Farmers Market Directory by USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), and the preliminary results of the 2006 USDA National Farmers Market Survey, conducted by AMS in partnership with Michigan State University.

Gov. Minner’s proclamation urges all Delawareans to recognize and support Delaware’s 10 farmers’ markets while celebrating the bountiful production and the significant contributions First State farmers and agricultural producers make to our way of life in Delaware.

Vist Downtown Milford's Farmers' Market on Saturdays through October from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The market is located just off S. Walnut Street near the Mispillion Riverwalk.

Things to do at Milford Public Library

2007-08-01T13:27:00.000-05:00

The Milford Public Library, located along the scenic Riverwalk in the heart of downtown, has many exciting programs and events coming up. On August 17th, a cancer screening will be sponsored by the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition, Inc. Interested participants can contact Melany or Laura at 888-672-9647 to schedule an appointment and learn more about FREE mammograms for those who qualify. The screening will be done by health professionals in their mobile health van in the library parking lot from 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

The Friends of the Milford Public Library will continue their well-known and highly anticipated book sales beginning August 31st at 7:00 a.m. and ending September 8th and 3:00 p.m. Stop in the lower level of the library to browse thousands of titles as well as a variety of second-hand gift items. Put this date on your calendar now!

And of course, the Music in the Park series continues in August with two performances in the library's amphitheater. Bring your picnic blanket or beach chairs. Riverfront Cafe will open at 6:00 p.m. for pre-concert BBQ. Relax in the early evening twilight with your friends and family as highly talented musicians entertain you. The concerts begin at 7:00 p.m. In the case of inclement weather, the concerts will be held inside. August 8th features Mark Mitchell, jazz and gospel saxophonist and on the 22nd visitors will be entertained by Barbara Benedett and Mary Kate Newell's "Pop, Jazz, and Light Classical" concert.

Adult Book Clubs continue to meet once a month for a lively discussion and light refreshments. Call 422-8996 for more information. Each monthly book selection can be Found in the Kent/Sussex Library system.

Be sure to check back here for further details conerning October's Mystery Book Sale and December's Holiday Bazaar.

August Board Meeting

2007-07-26T12:56:00.000-05:00

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.

Marvel Agency: Existing Business Feature

2007-07-23T13:15:00.001-05:00

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.

Country Flowers: New Downtown Business

2007-07-12T13:20:00.000-05:00

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.

Bug & Bud Festival Receives National Recognition

2007-07-11T13:20:00.001-05:00

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.

July Board Meeting

2007-06-28T12:16:00.000-05:00

Downtown Milford, Inc. will hold their monthly Board of Directors meeting on Thursday, July 5th 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, Farmers' Market, and Street Beautification committee chairs. Also, up for discussion is DMI's participation in the 2007 Chamber of Commerce Riverwalk Freedom Festival and 2008 Downtown Milford, Inc. House Tour.

The Downtown Milford, Inc. board meetings are open to the public.

Milford Published in "101 Best Outdoor Towns"

2007-06-27T12:30:00.000-05:00

Milford, Delaware is one of 101 cities listed in a new book written and prepared by Sarah Tuff and Greg Melville. The book, published by The Countryman Press of Woodstock, Vermont, is titled "101 Best Outdoor Towns, Unspoiled Places to Visit, Live & Play". Downtown Milford Inc.'s own consultant, Dan Bond assisted Melville by submitting information and photographs for his review.

The book touts itself as "a unique guide for the millions of American urban dwellers and suburbanites seeking quick getaways to small, breathtaking locales where there are pulse-quickening activities but a slower pace of life." We are thrilled not only for Milford to be included in this list, but to have many of our downtown businesses noted as well.

The book is already getting top reviews on Amazon and is selling well in bookstores. Remember, if you purchase books from Amazon, go to the Downtown Milford Inc. website and click on the Amazon tool bar before purchasing and DMI will get a commission on your purchase. (at no additional cost to you, of course)

Victorian Lady Announces Special Events

2007-06-22T09:33:00.000-05:00

The Victorian Lady Tearoom, located in Downtown Milford Delaware's Marshall House, has just announced their special events for the summer. The Victorian Lady is the premier tearoom in Kent County offering 65 types of loose teas.

On June 30th, The Victorian Lady will host a Bridal Tea at 2:00 p.m. where customers are invited to wear a bridal dress to tea. The ever popular Teddy Bear Tea for children 4 and up will be held on July 13th at 11:30 a.m. For children and adults alike the fun continues on July 21st at 11:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. with the Princess Tea. In addition to these special themed teas, the Victorian Lady Tearoom is open Wednesday-Friday from 10:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Saturdays for Queen's Tea from 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Visit the Victorian Lady for a cup of great tea served in true Victorian elegance. Contact them via phone at 302-424-8272 or visit them online at www.victorianladytea.net.

Group Advertising Campaign

2007-06-14T12:42:00.000-05:00

For over six months, Downtown Milford, Inc. business members have been working together to advertise as a group on a weekly basis. This most recent group advertising campaign is run through two local newspapers: Milford Chronicle and Harrington News Journal. Business members of Downtown Milford, Inc. are eligible for a special rate when advertising in these papers. Each individual ad is 4" x 2" and printed in full process color.

Anyone wishing to advertise in this or future group campaigns should contact the Downtown Milford, Inc. office.

Music in the Park Dates Released

2007-06-14T12:10:00.000-05:00

Downtown Milford, Inc. is pleased to embark upon a new partnership with Milford Public Library. MPL approached DMI concerning their summer concert series titled “Music in the Park”. This partnership will allow for “Music in the Park” to be held the second and fourth Wednesdays of June, July, and August; thereby doubling the number of performances offered in 2006. DMI is responsible for the sponsorship of the two concerts in August and marketing endeavors.

While DMI has worked with local and regional live entertainment performances through our Annual Bug & Bud Festival and Holiday Stroll events, this is our first venture into an ongoing event that is truly focused only on the arts. In addition to bringing quality entertainment to the racially and socio-economically diverse Milford population, the “Music in the Park” series will also allow us to showcase downtown’s attributes which include a picturesque amphitheatre, Riverwalk and park areas, and a variety of unique shopping and dining options.

Each concert will begin at 7:00 p.m. and last for the duration of one hour without an intermission. They are held just outside of the Milford Public Library which is centrally located in downtown along the Mispillion Riverwalk. The library’s amphitheatre is the perfect setting for individuals to bring chairs or blankets and truly enjoy an evening of quality entertainment. Local businesses are invited to participate by staying open during the later hours on concert days and offering specials to attendees. In case of inclement weather, the concerts can be held inside the Library’s Meeting Room which easily accommodates 100-150 people.

June will feature Andrus Family Singers on the 20th and Downtown Dixieland Band on the 27th. Performances in July will feature a steel band duo playing calypso, reggae, and soca music on the 11th and lyric soprano and guitarist duo on the 25th.

This August, we have invited jazz and gospel saxophonist, Mark Mitchell to perform on the 8th. Mark is originally from Philadelphia and is currently a saxophone instructor and administrator at the Mount Airy Culture Center. We are thrilled to welcome him to Milford just prior to his August 31st performance at the Tony Williams Jazz Festival over Labor Day weekend. The second performance to be held on August 22nd will offer Barbara Benedett from Philadelphia and her chamber group featuring clarinet and piano. Barbara’s show will feature pops and light classical tunes which are sure to delight the varied group of downtown visitors.

DMI’s partnership with MPL will allow the “Music in the Park” series to be much more visible than any one group going at it alone. This program is made possible, in part, by grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state agency dedicated to nurturing and supporting the arts in Delaware to enhance the quality of life for all Delawareans. The Delaware Division of the Arts provides technical and financial assistance to artists and arts programs and serves as a clearinghouse for information on the arts.

Bug & Bud Festival Offers Big Thank You!

2007-05-18T11:00:00.000-05:00

Bug & Bud Festival 2007 was by all accounts the best year yet! The festival organizers, Downtown Milford, Inc. and City of Milford Parks & Recreation department wish to acknowledge the numerous volunteers and capital givers whose contributions helped make this festival an event for the entire Milford community to enjoy.

Capital givers who made this year possible are:

Capital Fund Patrons
Mispillion Development Corp.
Richard Y. Johnson & Son General Contractors
Supporters
Artisans’ Bank
Country Life Homes, Inc.
Discover Bank
Mobious Investments, LLC
Friends
County Bank
Kent County Delaware CVB
LaCrosse Homes of Delaware
Lank, Johnson & Tull
Pepsi of Delmarva
Perdue Farms, Inc.
PNC Bank
Sea Watch International
Smith & Co. Restaurant
The Ladybug Shop

In addition to financial contributions, many community members volunteered their special talents to provide both organization and activities. These include:
Abbott’s Mill Nature Center led by Jason Beale for their hands-on snakes and turtles show as well as their Mispillion River canoe rides, Applebee’s for their children's coupon giveaways, Ben Franklin Plumbing for providing over 400 free kites to children, Bonanza for their raffle contribution, Delmarva Pigeon Club for their pigeon display and roller pigeon demonstrations, Milford Garden Club led by Verna Walls for their information booth coverage, Milford New Century Club with Gesine Abrutyn and Jan D'Agastino for their work with the local school art projects, Milford Public Library and Friends coordinated by Pat Palmer who graciously oversaw the children's art area as well as offering a variety of other activities, Milford Senior Center for donating their time and shuttle bus for festival participants use, Rhoda Friedman for her wonderful photograhy coverage of the event, Wilmington Trust, Co. for their generous raffle donation, and vendor ushers Al Lauckner, Pete Peterson, Scott Adkisson , Steve Robbins, and Don Abrutyn .

We appreciate Michelle Parisi of Zwaanendael Dance Studio for organizing the entertainment which included:
Milford Community Band, Miss Milford Organization, Harmonettes, Zwaanendael Dance Academy, Diamond Dance Company, First State Harmonizers, and Itinerant Dance Theater. A special thank you to Mark Dissinger who entertained festival-goers with his MC talents, Scout Troop 911 for the posting of the colors, Alison Clendaniel for her rendition of the "Star Spangled Banner", and Mayor Ronnie Rogers for his Arbor Day Proclamation. We also wish to thank Mitch Crane for his presentation of the downtown achievement award to Gary Emory.

The list is long, but not yet complete. It is important to recognize the tireless hard work of the staff of Parks & Recreation led by Gary Emory with much hard work by Mary Betts, City Electric, City Ground, Milford Police and Senior Volunteer Police, Houston Fire Co., Sussex County EMT, Downtown Milford, Inc. board members, Patty Masten, and Milford High School Honor Society. We can't forget Susan Newark of the festival committee and downtown farmers' market for her work on media coverage, Don Abrutyn who worked on every detail of this year's festival after retiring as 2006 co-chair, Dan Bond who not only served with his wife Rhonda as parade grand master, but also assisted in the festival planning stages, and Vicki Hudson, Lulu Ross and Banneker elementary art teach for her work on the children's artwork display and hands-on activity held in the library.

I hope that you enjoyed your time at the festival and will continue to visit downtown Milford to enjoy the variety of retail shops, restaurants, and services offered. With the beautiful days starting to become more plentiful I also hope you take advantage of downtown's Riverwalk Trail and well maintained park areas. If you see any of our 100+ volunteers, please join me in thanking them for their hard work!

Gala a Big Success!

2007-05-18T09:51:00.000-05:00

All those who attended the Gala on May 4th at the Shawnee Country Club seemed to have a great time. They enjoyed good food, lively dancing and a most entertaining auction. Perhaps the best news is that DMI and the Mispillion Art League will get a significant boost to their operating budgets. In addition, each of the artists who made such great contributions to this effort will receive 20% of the price paid for their ladybug to help cover their expenses. Of course this was all made possible by the DMI Merchants who paid the full cost of purchasing the ladybug forms and having them shipped to Milford. And it would not have been possible without the wonderful support of those who attended the Gala and bid on the ladybugs. We would like to recognize here the artists, sponsoring merchants and buyers:

List in order of Artist, Sponsor, and Buyer:

*Jackie Carmean, The Breakfast Club, Richard Carmean
*Diane Deeney & Terry Marsh, Triple M Farms, Barbara Steele
*William Paul Robbins, Wilmington Trust, Co., Barbara Steele
*Harry Humes, I.G. Burton of Milford, David Burton
*Diane Johnson, The Ladybug Shop, Dan & Rhonda Bond
*Kauriee Wood, Nancy's Fine Foods, Dan & Rhonda Bond
*Katja R. Lackey, Lou's Bootery, Heritage at Milford
*Franklin C. Deputy, Mispillion Art League, David Rutt
*Dee Sudimak & Cliff Clark, Milford Beacon, Peter Gosnell
*Herman S. “Ham” McNatt, Davis, Bowen & Friedel, Mollie Brown Rust
*H. Earl Abbott, Jr., Milford Parks & Rec, Harry Humes
*Deborah Young, Milford Chronicle, Dan & Rhonda Bond
*Sonja M. Frey, That Boutique!, Richard Carmean
*Michael A. Sollazzo, Milford Medical Associates, Barbara Rutt
*Linda Rehm, QUEST Fitness & Kayak, Ryan Durham

And we would like to give special recognition to Gwen Guerke and the Milford Chronicle for all the publicity they gave to this event through their series of articles on the artists and the wonderful full page color poster that they created of all the ladybug sculptures. The poster accompanies this post.

March Board Meeting

2007-02-21T12:15:00.000-05:00

The next Board of Directors meeting will be held Thursday, March 1st at 7 p.m. in the Milford Public Library meeting room. The public is invited to attend this meeting.

Items on March's agenda include Farmers' Market plans for 2007 and Streetscape Project Updates.

DMI Board meetings are held the first Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. in the Milford Public Library unless otherwise posted.

Rehoboth Main Street Manager to Address Milford City Council

2007-02-21T11:41:00.000-05:00

The Rehoboth Beach Main Street Manager will speak to Milford City Council during their February 26th work session. Fay Jacobs, who has overseen the nearly completed Streetscape improvements on Rehoboth Avenue, has accepted DMI's invitation to address the council at 7:00 p.m. in the City Hall meeting room located at 201 S. Walnut Street.

As Rehoboth's Main Street Manager, Ms. Jacobs has established a highly successful working relationship with downtown businesspeople, city officials, and civic organizations that has helped create an attractive and pedestrian friendly Rehoboth "Main Street".

In addition to her day job, Fay Jacobs is Features Editor of "Letters", the bi-weekly Rehoboth Beach publication, is a regular columnist for that publication, and is the authos of the very popular book compiling her best work-As I Lay Frying-a Rehoboth Beach Memoir.

The public is invited to this work session, but come early as seating is limited!

A Walk Through History

2007-02-06T09:45:00.000-05:00

By all accounts, the City of Milford's Bicentennial Celebration last night was a rousing success. The Milford City Council Bicentennial Committee, chaired by Councilman John R. Workman with assistance from Councilwoman Katrina Wilson, Councilman James Starling, Councilman John Kramlich, and DMI board member Don Abrutyn organized a variety of local history and local entertainment. Almost 40 Milford organizations participated ranging from the oldest, Christ Episcopal Church founded in 1704, to the newest, Mispillion Art League founded in 2004. Downtown Milford, Inc. was one of the younger participants of the night with an incorporation date of October 26, 1995.

If you weren't able to attend last night you may not know that the town of Milford was incorporated by an act of legislature on February 5, 1807. This act specified that the governing body should be a board of five commissioners, one assessor, and one treasurer, to be elected by ballot at a convenient place in town on the first Monday of March. Serving on this board were Dr. Joseph Sudler, John Wallace, Martin Dewaile, and William Davis. The legislation also defined the corporate boundaries of the town according to the lines drawn and specified by Mr. E. Dallas Hitchens on his Milford map c. 1792. Milford of 1807 was completely situated in Kent County, whereas areas south of the Mispillion River were referred to simply as "Sussex County".

Thanks to everyone who stopped by the Downtown Milford, Inc. display. We look forward to building on what started February 5th, 1807 with you.

Bicentennial Celebration

2007-02-02T14:02:00.000-05:00

Milford's Bicentennial Celebration will be held Monday, February 5th from 6-9 p.m. at Carlisle Fire Hall. Over 30 civic organizations will be on hand this night tauting their histories, current projects, and future goals. Please join Downtown Milford, Inc. during this once-in-a-lifetime community event.

Revolving Loan Funds Available

2007-01-25T14:21:00.000-05:00

DMI currently has funds available in the Revolving Loan Program. The funds assist the commercial revitalization of the downtown area by providing low-interest loans to qualified parties. These loans can be provided to new businesses to help them get started or to existing businesses to help them improve or expand. All loan applications are reviewed by a committee that includes professionals experienced in analyzing business loans. Applicants must provide background financial information and a business plan.

The Revolving Loan Program was initially funded with a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture in the amount of $15,000. To date, four businesses have taken advantage of this opportunity.

To learn more about the Revolving Loan Program, contact the DMI office.

Board Meeting

2007-01-25T14:08:00.000-05:00

The monthly DMI board meeting will be held Thursday, February 1st at 7 p.m. in the Milford Public Library Meeting Room. The meeting will include action on old business items and the final report of the 2006 Santa House committee.

Nancy's Fine Foods 5th Anniversary

2007-01-25T14:05:00.000-05:00

Nancy's Fine Foods is celebrating the fifth anniversary of opening downtown on Valentine's Day, Wednesday, February 14th. Please join us at 1 North Walnut Street from 5 to 7 p.m. to celebrate this milestone. Lots of food and fun will be shared!

Downtown Milford, Inc.

Design Day on Walnut Street

Thank you for your support!

Meet a Downtown Milford Business Owner

Meet a Downtown Milford Business Owner

Be Part of the Largest State of Delaware “This Place Matters” Photo

*NEW* 3D Modeling Volunteer Opportunity

Downtown Milford, Inc. Selected as a 2010 "Main Streets in 3D" Community

Meet a Downtown Milford Business Owner

Downtown Milford Businesses Featured in Best of Delaware 2010

Downtown Open House

Please Help Support DE's Historic Tax Credit Program

Straight Off the Top at Milford's Annual Bug & Bud Festival

Calling All Fine Artists, Artisans and Musicians!

Downtown Milford Welcomes New Executive Director & Assistant to the Executive Director

This Place Matters

7th Annual Bug & Bud Festival

Ladybugs on the move!

Ladybug Coloring Contest

Causey Mansion Holiday Open House

LadyBug Shop Holiday Sharing Program

Pumpkin Painting at Alive After Five

Downtown Merchants Offer Alive After Five Specials

Community Invited to Participate in Visioning

Card & Game Party Slated

New Mispillion Art League Gallery

New Year's Dinner & Dance

People's Day Events

Santa Claus is Coming to Town!

The Bed Chambers Black Friday Sale

Festive Events at the Library

Uptown and Over South Exhibit

Community Band Fundraiser

Oktoberfest Coming Fast!

Breast Cancer Tea

Botox Pajama Party

Photography Exhibit

President's Message

Farmers' Market Week Proclamation

Things to do at Milford Public Library

August Board Meeting

Marvel Agency: Existing Business Feature

Country Flowers: New Downtown Business

Bug & Bud Festival Receives National Recognition

July Board Meeting

Milford Published in "101 Best Outdoor Towns"

Victorian Lady Announces Special Events

Group Advertising Campaign

Music in the Park Dates Released

Bug & Bud Festival Offers Big Thank You!

Gala a Big Success!

March Board Meeting

Rehoboth Main Street Manager to Address Milford City Council

A Walk Through History

Bicentennial Celebration

Revolving Loan Funds Available

Board Meeting

Nancy's Fine Foods 5th Anniversary

NEW 3D Modeling Volunteer Opportunity