INSIDE: Home Sweet Home • Health Care • Business Digest
MORNING STAR
Business Report March 2015
Sussex County Real Estate Market on the Move
Home Sweet Home: Publisher’s notes By Mike McClure
Whether you are looking for a new home or thinking about making improvements to your home away from home, your business, this month’s edition of the Morning Star Business Report, themed Home Sweet Home, offers a lot of answers to questions you may have. For starters, is it time to make the move? Coldwell Banker Resort Realty offers some input on how to tell if you are in the right financial position to pursue purchasing a new home as well as some options on what to do with your current house. Across Sussex and Kent County, new homes are being built and new and old houses are being bought and sold. Staff writer Tony Russo looks at the recent surge in new home construction and how it relates to the area (page 7). According to representatives of NAI Emory Hill, there are plenty of commercial rentals looking for good tenants.
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Business Report | March 2015
Once you find a house, you need to turn it into a home. Creative Kitchens of Seaford offers custom-designed kitchens and offer installation services. Those who are do-ityourselfers can also do McClure so. A home is not complete without furniture, which is where Mike’s Clearance Center comes in. The facility, located in its current home in Delmar for the past decade, offers an assortment of new furniture that fits all of a new homeowner’s needs. Gardening and landscaping can brighten up your home or business. Business Report writer Annette Silva looks at some of the local options. According to Doug Phillips, president and managing director of certified public accounting firm Horty and Horty, there are new tax rules that may effect whether or not to make repairs or improvements to your business.
Real estate continues on path of sustained growth For the fourth consecutive year, recent data compiled and released by the Sussex County Association of Realtors (SCAOR), indicates a period of sustained growth in the region’s real estate markets. Buoyed by a vibrant and dynamic coastal market, the numbers indicate more than $1.45 billion in southern Delaware real estate changed hands in 2014, an eight percent increase over the previous year. There were more than 4,700 properties sold during the year, a three percent gain from 2013. Single-family home sales for the 2014 calendar year rose five percent over the previous year, with the average three-bedroom home in the county selling for a median price of $366,157 during 2014. In total, 2,707 single-family homes were sold in Sussex County in 2014, with the number of days on the market decreasing from 168 at the beginning of the year to only 151 by the end of December. Three bedroom homes remained the most popular, accounting for 2,343 homes sold at an average selling price of $259,825. “The days on market data is important to mention because it’s decreased from an average of 198 days in 2012 to just 151 days in 2014. That’s a huge difference, which essentially means that homes in Sussex County are selling more than a month-and-a-half faster than they did just two years ago,” says 2015 SCAOR President Fred Dean. “I think that alone is cause for excitement. But coupled with the rest of the data, it just adds to the positive impact of these yearly numbers.” To summarize, year-end figures reveal that 4,722 real estate transactions were completed in Sussex County during the last calendar year. This data includes single-family homes, as outlined above, as well as nearly $300 million in town home and condominium sales, more than $20 million in mobile home sales and more than $110 million in sales of lots and land. Commercial real estate, which has enjoyed a robust recovery of its own in the last couple of years, continued to show improvement in 2014, with nearly $30 million in commercial sales being conducted in the county. This is a 19 percent increase in total sales volume from the previous year. To read more about issues related to Sussex County’s real estate industry, visit SCAOR’s website at www.scaor.com.
De • tailed [dee-teyld] Business requirements are always changing, becoming more complex. You want a firm that you can trust to give care and consideration to all aspects of your business. The Horty professionals are thorough, thoughtful and comprehensive in their approach to providing service. We see the big picture, but we pay attention to the details.
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Business Report | March 2015
Be Strong Be Assured Be Active
Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a seasoned athlete or a person with joint or back pain, trust Beebe Healthcare’s Orthopaedic Services for your muscular-skeletal problems. When surgery is indicated, minimally invasive surgical techniques can often speed your recovery. Beebe’s orthopaedic surgeons all have specialized areas of focus and their treatment teams provide care that is unmatched.
• Spine Care–Range of individualized treatments for neck and back pain from physical therapy to complicated spinal reconstructive surgery • Foot and Ankle Fractures and Replacement • Shoulder and Elbow Care including Replacement • Knee and Hip Care including Replacement
Get yourself moving again. 4
Business Report | March 2015
• Hand and Wrist Procedures including carpal tunnel release and tendon and nerve repair • Sports Injuries of all types treated with rehabilitation, repair procedures and surgery when indicated • Beebe HealthyBack–a new program for people with chronic neck and back pain
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inside March 2015
PAVILION- Palmer of Gillis of Gillis Gilkerson discusses the Delmarva Health Pavilion in Millsboro. Page 25
DEVELOPMENT- The Rehoboth Medical Arts Building in Rehoboth Beach is available for lease on the growing Beebe Health Campus, a sign of medical office growth. Page 16
Features 6
Chamber Listings
8
Modern Day Gardening
10
Business Digest
12
Tourism
13
Small Business Adminstration
14
26
Business Licenses
30
Business Directory
March Theme Home Sweet Home 8
Garden Centers
Health
18
Coldwell Banker
22
Personnel File
19
Mike’s Clearance Center
24
Marketing, Insurance
20
Creative Kitchens and Floors Inc.
On the Cover The Vineyards at Nassau Valley (pictured on cover) is leasing rapidly, just one example of commercial real estate growth in Sussex County according to NIA Emory Hill.
April Theme: First Impressions Contact Chris Redman at (302) 262-9137 or credman@mspublications.com.
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Business Report | March 2015
CHAMBER LISTINGS Chamber
Phone
Key contact
Dues*
Members
Fax
Bethany-Fenwick Chamber of Commerce
539-2100
Kristie Maravalli
$211
800
539-9434
Delmar Chamber of Commerce
846-3336
Diane Johnson $75
67
846-3336
Georgetown Chamber of Commerce
856-1544
Karen Duffield
$150
460
856-1577
Laurel Chamber of Commerce
875-9319
Don Dykes
$130
130
280-6365
Lewes Chamber of Commerce
645-8073
Betsy Reamer
$210
432
645-8412
Milford Chamber of Commerce
422-3344
Jo Schmeiser
$165
310
422-7503
Millsboro Chamber of Commerce
934-6777
Amy Simmons
$150
260
934-6065
Milton Chamber of Commerce
684-1101
Lisa Sumstine
$150
120
684-1101
Rehoboth-Dewey Chamber of Commerce
227-2233
Carol Everhart
$210
1303
227-8351
Seaford Chamber of Commerce
629-9690
Lynn Brocato
$150
300
629-0281
Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce
734-7513
Judy Diogo
$250
1004
678-0189
Delaware State Chamber of Commerce
655-7221
Chuck James
$315
2000
654-0691
Delaware Small Business Chamber
482-2120
Bob Older
$295
170
Delmarva Black Chamber of Commerce
450-4501
Clay Hammond
* Annual membership cost based on businesses with fewer than 10 employees. For Delaware State and Central Delaware chambers membership cost figure is for 1-5 members.
MARCH 2015 CALENDAR
Mar. 4 - 1st Wednesday - Chamber Economic Council Meeting 12-1 PM; Georgetown Wesleyan Church - Georgetown. Special Guest: Commissioner of Del. Dept. of Corrections, Rob Coupe. Lunch served. All welcome! Call 856-1544 for info. Mar. 4 - 1st Wednesday - Chamber Board of Directors Meeting 4 PM; NEW CHAMBER OFFICE - 827 East Market St., Georgetown. Call 856-1544 for more info. Mar. 11 - 2nd Wednesday - Chamber Breakfast Meeting - 7:458:45 AM - DEL TECH - Student Services Center; $9 per person. Guest Presenter: Rep. Daniel Short of the House Small Business Caucus. RSVP by Tues., Mar. 10, by calling 302-856-1544 or email karen@georgetowncoc.com. Stay afterwards for Del Tech’s 1 Million Cups presentation from 9-10 AM Mar. 18 - Global Business Forum & Mixer - 10 AM-12 Noon; DEL TECH - Student Services Center; Fireside Lounge; Learn how small businesses can expand to international markets. Refreshments provided by Java 101. Open to the Public! For more info visit go.dtcc.edu/global. Mar. 18 - 3rd Wednesday - Chamber Mixer - 4:30-6:30 PM; Host: TBA - Always a great opportunity to mix & mingle with fellow business leaders. Call 856-1544 for more details. Mar. 25 - 4th Wednesday - Chamber Luncheon - 12 Noon -1 PM; at CHEER Center, Sand Hill Road in Georgetown; Special Guest Presenter to be featured. Cost is $10 per person. RSVP by Tuesday, Mar. 24, by calling 856-1544 or email karen@georgetowncoc.com.
Call Us If You Want to Grow Your Business
302-856-1544
302-856-1577 Fax
827 East Market St., P.O. Box 1, Georgetown, DE 19947
info@georgetowncoc.com www.georgetowncoc.com
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Business Report | March 2015
2014 1995
1996
1997
1998
Single Family Building Permits (Number of units) NCC
2,263
2,179
2,077
2,327
755
629
632
675
SUSSEX
1,287
1,440
1,505
1,709
STATE
4,305
4,248
4,214
4,711
KENT
Multi-Family Building Permits (Number of units) NCC
85
41
232
380
KENT
186
30
-
SUSSEX
32
51
286
108
STATE
303
122
518
576
88
Total Production (Number of units) NCC
2,348
2,220
2,309
2,707
941
659
632
763
SUSSEX
1,319
1,491
1,791
1,817
STATE
4,608
4,370
4,732
5,287
KENT
Sussex could see surge in home construction By Tony Russo
Last year, housing starts topped predictions handily and this year looks as if it might be even better. More than one million homes were built nationwide in 2014, but forecasts had been between 800,000 and 900,000. At the International Builders Show last month, chief economist and senior vice president at the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Dr. David Crowe projected a 24-percent increase in single family starts for the coming year. In Delaware, growth wasn’t quite in pace with the national average, and in Sussex County the numbers were pretty much flattened out in 2014 after three years of aggressive, post crash surge. According to Marlena Gibson, director of policy and planning at Delaware State Housing Authority, Sussex County num-
bers have been the strongest in the state since well before the crash. “In the boom it went the highest but it didn’t fall the hardest,” she said. “Around 4,000 to 5,000 [average number of new starts annually] is a healthy place to be.” As the weather begins to break and construction stays strong at places like Heritage Shores in Bridgeville and Heron Ponds, Delmar, regional housing could have a banner year. Fred Fortunato, executive vice president of the Home Builders Association of Delaware, said that the trend, in addition to the recent designation of Seaford as a Downtown Development District, could signal things are getting ready to heat up all over Sussex County. The Downtown Development District provides financial incentives for builders to invest in struggling downtowns. It will allow Seaford to better participate in the national downtown revitalization
trend. All over the country, families and young professionals are embracing the prospect of living and working downtown. Better connectivity, more walkable, bikeable communities, alternative industries and the rise of the small-scale entrepreneur have allowed people to invest financially and culturally in the downtown experience. One advantage to downtown redevelopment is infrastructure. Building where the town already has water and sewer, electricity, sidewalks and police and other civil services can reduce costs. “That’s definitely a component,” Gibson said. “We know there’s capacity.” In addition to more building, new construction in Delaware will now have to meet higher standards. “The state legislature passed a new energy code that went into effect on Nov. 11th of last year,” Fortunato said. “That means more insulation, better sealing, more comfort and more energy efficiency.”
Housing Production Report Delaware Building Permits, 1996 - 2014
2008
2009
2014 YTD
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2,273
1,640
1,646
2,099
1,801
2,027
1,569
1,409
1,183
641
627
542
606
686
898
1,095
733
853
958
1,452
1,787
2,046
2,000
1,511
1,345
824
722
658
630
692
861
923
1,844
1,422
1,825
2,514
3,184
3,477
3,589
2,448
2,109
1,375
1,388
1,418
1,573
1,746
2,138
2,085
4,850
3,915
4,429
6,065
6,772
7,550
7,158
5,368
4,637
2,840
2,737
2,618
2,809
3,124
3,897
4,103
302
691
220
156
608
176
182
319
277
181
169
66
105
304
384
431
133
5
60
-
380
132
182
192
139
164
78
135
107
215
76
72
673
625
238
161
167
136
129
258
336
210
1,037
1,136
654
506
414
337
341
777
796
713
990
1,282
1,526
2010
2011
2012
2013
-
-
105
110
-
-
435
696
385
266
988
308
2,575
2,331
1,866
2,255
2,409
2,203
1,751
1,728
1,460
822
796
608
711
866
858
1,018
1,452
2,167
2,178
2,182
1,703
1,484
988
800
793
737
907
937
995
1,844
1,422
1,930
2,624
3,184
3,477
4,262
3,073
2,347
1,536
1,555
1,554
1,702
2,004
2,474
2,295
5,285
4,611
4,814
6,331
7,760
7,858
8,195
6,504
5,291
3,346
3,151
2,955
3,150
3,901
4,693
4,816
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Business Report | March 2015
Centuries-long art of gardening in modern day By Annette Silva “We are revolutionary and progressive,” Karen Fox at Cordrey Gardens in Millsboro offered over the phone. This in answer to an award the garden center just won. Interest, immediately, is piqued. “It’s all good and all about gardening,” Karen said. In Delaware, Cordrey Gardens, formerly known as East Coast Garden Center, is managed by Chris Cordrey and his sister Valerie. The center was recently named one of 100 Revolutionary garden centers in the U.S. by AmericanHort, the national association for the garden industry. (See the January issue of Today’s Garden Center magazine: TodaysGardenCenter.com.) A summing up from a witness: Indoor winter farm market; four season container gardens; micro greens; hydroponic lettuce greens; low maintenance landscapes; garden seminars; re-blooming hybrids; children’s garden; charity events; management seminars; enrichment center; consulting services; seventy greenhouses; 16 acres of land and a man called Chris. (No partridge in a pear tree.) If you can imagine Chris and his workers as machines, they would run revolutions around most of us 24/7. As a modern civilization, we are made aware of daily innovations in the tech industry. However, it may come as a surprise to many that a quiet revolution is taking place in garden centers. Avid four-season gardeners reading this are making plans and orders…and maybe they are growing a few smiles.
The Indoor Farmers’ Market
This is an all-year operation, not just for managers and staff, but for visitors and customers. Traditional gardens rest in the winter but planners, growers, landscapers, designers and artisans are busy. This year, Cordrey Gardens initiated its first Indoor Farmers’ Market with 22 vendors. With microgreens and homemade sausage, Maiale Deli and Maryland cheese from grass fed Jersey cows, the Cordrey Center is jumping on Tuesday afternoons from noon to 3 p.m. On a 28-degree Farenheit day in January, the warmth of the fireplace and scents of soup cooking, homemade breads and sausage, steaming calamari in broth and brewing coffee all seduce visitors in from the cold. Lavender Fields are in the air as its booth of the same name sells soaps, dried 8
Business Report | March 2015
This is an example of how to brighten a modest corner with roses, mondo grass and containers. Submitted photo. Below: Chris Cordrey is shown in his office at the Cordrey’s Garden Center. Photo by Annette Silva
Pictured is a winter container at Cordrey Garden Center. Photo by Annette Silva
flowers and sachets. Katy Shorts brought eight samples of micro greens to market, including arugula, radish, bright lights chard, basil dark opal, sorrel, sunflower shoots and pea shoots. “They are nutritious, grown in 9-by-12 trays in two inches of soil and are ready to harvest in seven to 14 days,” she said. Pappardelle’s Pasta Shop from Rehoboth was cooking with multi-color, home-made pasta of about 10 different colors and flavors including Porcini mushroom linguini and lavender fettucine. A sign says “All pasta is made fresh from Heirloom grains.” It must be good because a lot of people were milling about and pointing. Jakes Old Baltimore Style Seafood set up a make-shift kitchen behind a counter and cooked soup and calamari. I brought a quart of that delicacy home, so I know it’s good.
Landscaping for lovers of leisure
“We have a lot of retired customers who travel,” said Cordrey. So he accommodates them. The center decorates businesses and entire developments that depend on his eight managers and 80 employees. He has solutions for busy people that include hardscaping and container gardening. Chris and his crew build decks, patios, paths, stone surfaces and walls. As the main creator of the four-season containers, he follows certain rules while keeping the balance of color, design and location in mind. “These are not your everyday flower pots,” Chris said. Each pot for customers has four plantings a year, one for each season. “We have a focal point, usually a tall tropical, unique shrub or a miniature tree surrounded by annuals and perennial fillers in two layers of varied combinations with ‘spillers’ to flow slightly over the edges.” Outdoor pots, though they have the look of stone or clay pottery, are made up of a polyfiber combination that is weatherproof. The pots remain outside all year. If a customer is traveling or unable to
Shown is the landscaping outside of Purple Parott in Rehoboth Beach. Submitted photo
water the containers, Chris’s crew shows up at allotted times to water and feed (“our secret formula”) to maintain the beauty of the pot. The container operation (about 3,000 containers a year) is only one aspect of the garden center. Every greenhouse has a label: Shade plants; sun to partial sun; shrubs; annuals; perennials; tropicals; vines; trees, etc. In the office, now under renovation, consultations take place. Each landscape design needs discussion of irrigation (which the center also does), relationship to home and surroundings, lifestyle and how much maintenance an owner is prepared to do. All of this is in addition to a myriad of issues of spacing, color and light. “We work closely with people so the plan will become what the homeowner wants a garden to be,” said Cordrey. “Success depends on making everything look good. Some people just say: ‘Make it look pretty’.”
ing operation has become. There are many new hybrids created every year — hundreds in daylilies alone. The research, buying, shipping and receiving operations never stop. Shade gardening has traditionally offered difficult choices. Not at Cordrey Gardens. It has a plethora of foamflowers, astilbes, Heuchera, veronica, salvia, coreopsis, hosta and painted ferns. There are new and unusual impatiens, geranium and begonias that add color to any landscape. Chris suggests inserting pots among garden plants to add interest, color and height. Putting hostas in pots also keeps the moles and voles at a safe distance. Continued on page 28
New plant materials
In addition to the hybrids one may see at Lowe’s or Home Depot like knock-out roses, twice-blooming azaleas and orange coneflowers, new species of hostas (‘Ambrosia’), Heuchera hybrids (‘Berry Timeless’), smaller, more compact Hydrangeas (‘Little Quick Fire’) and tougher climbing roses (‘Above and Beyond’) are invented every day. This offers an idea of just how important the buy-
A crock pot of Ribollita soup made by Patty’s of Georgetown, located at the farmer’s market at Cordrey’s Garden Center. Photo by Annette Silva. 9
Business Report | March 2015
BUSINESS DIGEST Booker-Wilkins joins KSI board
KSI has welcomed Melody BookerWilkins to its board of directors. A longtime KSI supporter, Booker-Wilkins has been a frequent donor and joined the MakeA-Difference Society to help KSI’s programs remain viable. Booker-Wilkins was previously general manager of Delmarva Booker-Wilkins Broadcasting Company. Most recently, she worked with the Delaware Economic Development Office (DEDO) as the business development leader for Sussex County. She is currently the economic development director for Sussex County, serving as a resource to employers interested in doing business within the county. Booker-Wilkins holds a master’s of public administration and a bachelor’s in political science. She also volunteers with Junior Achievement in Delaware, is an ex-officio
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Business Report | March 2015
member of the Sussex County Economic Development Action Committee (SEDAC), and a board member of Southern Delaware Tourism. She resides in Milford with her husband, James.
Tingle accepts invitation
Melinda Tingle, an Edward Jones financial advisor in Laurel, has accepted an invitation to increase her current limited partnership holdings. Amanda Lowe-Whaley, a senior branch office administrator, accepted an invitation to become a limited partner in The Jones Financial Cos., the holding company for the St. Louis-based financial services firm.
Kent County Tourism recognized
Kent County Tourism has been named a 2014 All Star Award winner by Constant Contact Inc., for the third consecutive year. The award, given annually to the top 10 percent of Constant Contact’s international customer base, recognizes select businesses and nonprofits for their significant achievements leveraging online marketing tools to engage their customer base and drive success
for their organization. “Kent County Tourism utilizes Constant Contact’s digital marketing services for our newsletter communications with various audiences,” said Cindy Small, executive director.
WSFS report quarterly earnings
WSFS Financial Corporation (Nasdaq: WSFS), the parent company of WSFS Bank, reported net income of $12.7 million, or $1.32 per diluted common share for the final quarter of 2014 compared to net income of $11.4 million, or $1.23 per share for the third quarter of 2014 and net income of $12.1 million, or $1.33 per share for the fourth quarter of 2013. Results for both the third and fourth quarter of 2014 included significant corporate development costs primarily related to the merger integration of The First National Bank of Wyoming (FNBW). Net income for the full year of 2014 was $53.8 million, up from $46.9 million for 2013. Earnings per share were $5.78 per diluted common share in 2014, 14 percent greater than the $5.06 per share reported for the full year 2013.
SERVPRO is recognized
SERVPRO, a cleanup and restoration franchise company, maintains its hold on the number seven spot overall, out of a group of 927 franchises that qualified for inclusion in the list in the 2015 Franchise 500 rankings from Entrepreneur magazine. This recognition marks the sixth consecutive year Entrepreneur has included the company in its Top 10 list and the 12th consecutive year SERVPRO has earned the top spot on the magazine’s list in its own industry, Restoration Services. “It’s satisfying to represent the ongoing brand leadership of SERVPRO for disaster cleanup and restoration services in the Sussex County area,” said Ray and JoAnn Hopkins, owner of SERVPRO of Sussex County.
DSBC announces new board
The Delaware Small Business Chamber has announced the officers and board members for 2015-2016. Each board member serves a scattered three-year term. Bob Older, founder of the Delaware Small Business Chamber and owner of Creative Travel, Inc., was re-elected as chairman. Ed Kessler, owner of The Perfect Wedding Guide, was elected as vice-chair. Kenna Ulbinsky-Yakal, Aflac, was elected treasurer. Neil Stalter, Diamond State Financial Group, was elected secretary. Remaining elected board members are: Denise Allen, Keller Williams Team Allen; Deidre Garoutte, Kona Ice Elkton/Newark; Geneva Fonda, Geneva Fonda Photography; Cathy Turner, WSFS; Amy Eschenbrenner, Blue Hen Bed & Breakfast; and Paul Rada, Clarion Hotel – The Belle.
Pancake on fairness board
Small business owner Robert Pancake II is the newest appointee to the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Region III Regulatory Fairness Board. Pancake will serve as a local resource for small businesses and will work with small business trade groups and other entities to address regional concerns about federal regulatory enforcement and compliance issues. Pancake is the principal, managing member and CEO/COO of High 5 Hospitality. He can be reached at bobbypancake@gmail.com or 302-540-3311.
Consortium welcomes members
Over the last 18 months, the Delaware Library Consortium, in cooperation with the Delaware Division of Libraries, added six new member institutions: Barratt’s Chapel
SHELTER RECEIVES GRANT - Perdue Farms has continued its support of Sussex Community Crisis Housing Services in Georgetown with a $5,000 Arthur W. Perdue Foundation grant. SCCHS, through its Crisis House Homeless Shelter, provides safe and secure transitional housing to homeless individuals and families. From left: Dan Stein, director of Perdue operations in Georgetown; Lavoney Parker, Perdue staffing recruiter; Pat Walls, Perdue associate relations representative, and Nancy Woodruff, program director, Sussex Community Crisis Housing Services Homeless Shelter.
and Museum, Biggs Museum of American Art, Delaware’s Legislative Hall Library, Fort Delaware Society, Positive Outcomes Charter School, and Thomas Edison Charter School. These six institutions join the 35 public libraries, six academic libraries, two school libraries, and seven special libraries
currently in the consortium. Membership in the consortium allows institutions to add their print collections to the online Delaware Library Catalog as well as digitized collections to the online Delaware Heritage Collection. All Delaware libraries are invited to join.
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Business Report | March 2015
TOURISM
No Place Like Home in Southern Delaware By Tina Coleman, Southern Delaware Tourism
There really is no place like home when you live in Southern Delaware. That’s clearly evident in the everexpanding annual events lists compiled by Southern Delaware Tourism. Our 2015 list, at the moment, contains about 120 festivals and events. Generally, that number includes events with the potential to directly attract visitors from outside a 50 mile radius of our area. A huge number of wonderful smaller events, while not included in the list, add to the likelihood visitors will return but may not directly encourage overnight visitation. Some events on our 2015 list are new this year. Most, though, are annual festivals and events that have been successful enough to be repeated, in some instances for decades. These events become part of the tapestry of experiences that make Southern Delaware unique among Mid Atlantic beach destinations and are an important part of the reason
that visitors return again and again. If you’ve never lived anywhere else, you might not realize how extraordinary this superabundance of really-fun-stuff-to-do is, particularly in such a small geographic area with a population of just over 200,000. But it is extraordinary. These events and festivals are the results of lots of brainstorming and planning and cooperation and much grueling, hard work on the parts of lots and lots of civic groups, businesses, and local people, many of them volunteers. Their efforts pay incredible dividends. Festivals and Special Events came in fourth among the top 10 visitor activities in Southern Delaware’s 2014 Visitor Survey (behind only Tax Free Shopping, Going to the Beach, and Dining and Food.) They play a large part in tourism being the second largest economic driver in Sussex County. Our five star beaches are spectacular, but they really, truly are just the beginning. Look
at this sampling of what’s coming up just in the next two late winter/early spring months: March 7: 25th Annual Rehoboth Beach Chocolate Festival; March 8: Eighth Annual Milton St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Third Annual Lucky Leprechaun 5K Run/Walk; March 14: Milford: Fifth Annual St. Patrick Day “Toasting the Town” Pub Crawl; March 21: Rehoboth Beach: Merchants Attic III; April 3: 47th Annual Great Delaware Kite Festival, Cape Henlopen State Park; April 9 -11: Lewes Tulip Festival; April 9–12, Camp Rehoboth Women’s Fest 2015; April 10 (Friday): Rehoboth Beach Fifth Annual Get Down in Town Wine, Dine & Shop Local; April 11-12: Dewey Beach Bacon Fest; April 17-18: Dewey Beach Pop Fest; April 18: Bethany Beach’s 26th Annual Ocean to Bay Bike Tour; April 25: Milford’s 12th Annual Bug and Bud Festival For information on these events, visit the Southern Delaware Tourism website at www. visitsoutherndelaware.com
Big Fish is Rehoboth-Dewey chamber’s business of the year The Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce presented the 2014 Business of the Year Award to Big Fish Restaurant Group on Thursday, Feb. 12, at the chamber’s annual Volunteer Recognition and Officers’ Installation Dinner. The Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce began honoring a member business with the Business of the Year Award in 1997. The selection committee considers several criteria in choosing a recipient. Current criteria requires that candidates be a chamber member in good standing and geographically located in our area. In addition, the business must be independently owned and operated for a minimum of 10 RIBBON CUTTING - The Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony recently to celebrate the new office of PHB Inc., General Contractors in Georgetown. The new office is located at 24207 S. DuPont Blvd. Pictured from left: Patty Burkentine representing the chamber; Danny Burris, owner; Dane Neal Cox, marketing specialist; Mike Ford, project manager; Joe DiFrancesco, project manager.
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Business Report | March 2015
years. The physical location of the business must have a good appearance, the owner must show commitment to the community through in-kind services, volunteerism and/or donations (monetary contributions being of least importance) and the business must demonstrate excellence in operation ethics. Below are comments made by chamber board member Chris Weeks during the presentation to Big Fish Restaurant Group: “It is my pleasure again this year to present the Business of the Year. “Founded in 1997 by two brothers, this year’s recipient has become one of the premier spots for casual dining in the region. A
unique blend of original recipes, must-have favorites and affordable prices has resulted in a dedicated following. “Enough so to earn numerous ‘Best Seafood at the Beach’ awards by Delaware Today magazine. “The secret ingredient of this success story is a commitment to providing fresh, great-tasting dishes, unsurpassed hospitality and impeccable customer service. They offer a diverse menu featuring not only handselected seafood at its absolute freshness but also delicious steaks and pasta in a casual, relaxed atmosphere. There’s truly something for everyone!” “It is my honor to present the 2014 Business of the Year to Big Fish Grill.”
SBA, credit unions help small businesses By Natalia Olson-Urtecho U.S. Small Business Administration Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Two out of every three new, private sector jobs are created by small businesses, making them unique cornerstones of America and the backbone of our economy. That’s why it’s so important for small businesses to have access to capital to start and grow their businesses. To help bridge credit gaps, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is partnering with credit unions. Credit unions in the mid-Atlantic region are incredibly important because they are community-based and mission focused. They help their members finance cars, homes, education, and of course, small businesses! With this partnership we’re engaging 250 credit unions to approve at least 10 loans of $50,000 or less, injecting over $125 million into the small business economy. The economic influence of this partnership cannot be overstated. There are nearly 6,800 federally-insured credit unions with over 100 million members and around $1 trillion in assets. Additionally, this partnership meets our mandate of being “Smart, Bold, and Accessible” since small dollar loans do not count toward the credit unions’ business loan cap. This provides flexibility to distribute small dollar loans, which will increase access to capital to communities and fire up local economies. This partnership is one of the many ways SBA is dedicated to creating jobs and tapping into America’s full entrepreneurial potential. We know that for those who dream big, work hard, and play fair can achieve the American Dream with the SBA, the possibilities are limitless. Along with President Obama, we’re committed to moving America forward by making it easier for entrepreneurs to access fundamental tools and resources to start and grow new businesses. When we strengthen small businesses, we’re driving the overall economy, and increasing opportunities to small business owners and the middle class. SBA has taken additional steps to boost small-dollar lending, which will also bolster our credit union partnership. We’ve stream-
lined credit evaluations by revising credit criteria for SBA 7(a) small dollar loans and we’ve zeroed out fees on small dollar loans ($150,000 or less) making it easier for entrepreneurs to access capital by cutting costs and time. So connect with your local credit union, and ask them to stay tuned for further details from SBA. For now, visit www.sba.com/local to learn more about how you can gain access
to capital to jumpstart your business.
“The initial stages starting up can be the scariest. We would have never tried to do this without the assistance of the Pop-Up program.”
Amy Conroy, Owner, Wine Knot Shop
142 East Market Street, PO Box 751 Georgetown, DE 19947-0751
Attorneys at Law John A. Sergovic, Jr. Shannon Carmean Burton David J. Weidman
Leslie Case DiPietro Seth L. Thompson Elizabeth L. Souceck
Real Estate / Civil Litagation / Family Law / Wills & Estates / Probate / Guardianships Construction Litigation / Land Use Regulation / Zoning / Business Law & Formation Commercial & Residential / Landlord/Tenant
P 302-855-1260 | F 302-855-1270 | www.scdelaw.com
I have the ability to be more... ...when I have ability to work!
Carmen Warren is a valued member of Bayhealth Medical Center’s team, providing janitorial services at Milford Memorial Hospital. Her contribution helps the hospital shine for its patients, and Carmen learns more every day she works. KSI Supported Employment is there to help Carmen stay successful in that job, assisting both she and her employer with updated training, skill development and relationship building throughout the course of Carmen’s employment. That way, Carmen gets to show her best abilities. And Bayhealth gets a great, reliable employee with dedication to her job.
Embrace Abilities in your workplace. KSI can help. Call 302-422-4014 to learn how.
Like us on Facebook. www.facebook.com/KSIworks
Kent-Sussex Industries, Inc. 13
Business Report | March 2015
HEALTH
ANNIVERSARY STEERING COMMITTEE - A committee is preparing for the 100th anniversary of Beebe Healthcare in 2016. Committee members are: Christine Moore, 100th anniversary co-chair; Judy Aliquo, Beebe Foundation president and CEO; Jan McCarty, 100th anniversary co-chair; Jeffrey M. Fried, president and CEO of Beebe Healthcare; Kelly Griffin, director of marketing & communications, Beebe Healthcare; Leanne Silicato-Prosser, 100th anniversary event coordinator; Tom Protack, Beebe Medical Foundation director of development; Lynn Wilkins, history co-chair; Ted Becker, mayor of Lewes; Dr. James Marvel Jr., Cape Orthopaedics; Jean Winstead, history co-chair; Nina Hazzard, Margaret H. Rollins School of Nursing; Mary Green, community engagement chair; Dan Mapes, education co-chair; Frank Molino, education co-chair; Tara Simpson, team engagement co-chair; Eileen Clark, events co-chair; Benedette Cooper, events co-chair.
Kent General receives accreditation
Bayhealth announces that Kent General has been granted a three-year term of accreditation in Echocardiography in the area of Adult Transthoracic Echocardiograms by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC). The IAC grants accreditation only to those facilities that are found to be providing quality patient care, in compliance with national standards through a comprehensive application process including detailed case study reviews.
New heart program at Beebe
Beebe Healthcare announces that the Dr. Dean Ornish Program For Reversing Heart Disease will open in late March at Beebe Health Campus on Rt. 24 in Rehoboth Beach. This program is nationally recognized - through the results of more than 35 years of peer-reviewed, published research - for reversing the progression of heart disease. Recently, U.S. News & World Report awarded the Ornish Diet the No. 1 ranking for the Best Heart-Healthy Diet for the fifth year in a row. 14
Business Report | March 2015
Cardiologist Rajinder Prasad, MD, FACC, has been named director of the program. Dr. Prasad is board certified in cardiovascular disease and has been a member of the Beebe Medical staff since 2003. For more information, visit www. UndoItWithOrnish.com. For more information on the program at Beebe, visit www. beebehealthcare.org/ornish or call 645-3295.
Brown named president of board
Thomas E. Brown, senior vice president for Nanticoke Health Services and president of the Nanticoke Physician Network, has been elected to a two-year term as chair of the Delaware Hospice Board of Trustees. Brown has been a member of the board since March 2013. Carol Leashefski and Clarence A. Smith II have been appointed to serve on the board for two year terms. Leashefski is a Brown team member with
Genesis HealthCare Seaford Center. Smith is director of operations at IPC The Hospitalist Company of Newark.
Counselors complete program
Delaware Hospice congratulates Bereavement Counselor, Lesile Eames and New Hope Counselor, Earline Vann on their Certification in Thanatology: Death, Dying, and Bereavement Program with the Association of Death, Education, and Counseling. With their completion of the program, Delaware Hospice has three employees including New Hope Counselor, Robin Murphy, with this distinction.
Nanticoke achieves next level
In December, HIMSS Analytics announced Nanticoke Memorial Hospital achieved Stage 6 on the EMR Adoption ModelSM (EMRAM). HIMSS Analytics developed the EMR Adoption Model in 2005 as a methodology for evaluating the progress and impact of electronic medical record systems for hospitals in the HIMSS Analytics™ Database. Tracking their progress in completing eight
stages (0-7), hospitals can review the implementation and utilization of information technology applications with the intent of reaching Stage 7, an advanced electronic patient record environment. Stage 6 hospitals have made significant investments to reach this stage, have almost fully paperless medical records, have investments in improving patient care, are well positioned to provide data to key stakeholders and more. Stage 6 represents a level that only 968 US hospitals have reached to date.
Conference by the Bay is March 20
Dementia will be the focus of the 21st Conference by the Bay on Friday, March 20, at the Atlantic Sands hotel in Rehoboth Beach. This year’s event, “Nursing Update 2015: Managing Dementia in 2015,” will feature Teepa Snow, an occupational therapist working as a dementia care and dementia educational specialist. She has more than 33 years of clinical experience in geriatrics and dementia care. Registration is $110 for general registration; $85 for Beebe Healthcare employees and retirees; and $75 for full-time nursing students. Registration forms must be completed by March 6 or there will be a $20 late
fee. Beebe Healthcare will award 6.0 contact hours via completion of the program. Call the School of Nursing at 302-6453251, ext. 5469, for a registration form.
Beebe Walk-In expands hours
Beebe Walk-In Care in Millville will now remain open year-round. The hours for Beebe Walk-In Care in Millville, Georgetown and Millsboro have been expanded to 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Hours at Millville are Monday through Friday, while hours at Georgetown and Millsboro are seven days a week. “We have experienced a tremendous population growth in recent years, which has created more demand for medical care,” said Douglas B. Allen, DO, medical director of all Beebe Walk-In Care locations. “We have expanded our hours to meet the needs of the communities we serve.”
Beebe offers free CPR classes
Beebe Healthcare is offering free community CPR classes. Classes are held at 9 a.m. on the second Saturday of each month at Beebe Healthcare’s Medical Center in Lewes for non-medical members of the community. The class includes facilitation by a trained volunteer and a small reference book.
Introducing the perfect development opportunities...
FOR SALE: 182 Acres, Mixed-Use Residential Land on Rt. 14 near Rt. 15 intersection, Milford, DE Site plan includes 1,057 residential units: single family lots, twin homes, town homes and condos/apts.
This is not a full-certification CPR class and cards are not issued. The course teaches adult hands-only CPR, child CPR, infant CPR, automated external defibrillator use, and what to do when someone is choking. The course is a combination of video lecture and hands-on practice with mannequins. Reservations are required. For more information, call 302-645-3248 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday.
Hargreaves named president
Jennifer L. Hargreaves, Educational Institute manager at Beebe Healthcare, has been named president of the Delaware Organization of Nurse Leaders. She has been an active member of the organization since 2011. In her new statewide role, Hargreaves is focused on developing collaborative leadership programs and educational offerings for Delaware nurse leaders together with members of the American Organization of Nurse Executives. Hargreaves
Be part of the excitement in Kent County!
FOR SALE: 238 Acres, Residential, Office & Retail Land on Rt. 12 (Johnnycake Landing Rd.), Frederica, DE Site plan includes 935 residential units plus 225,000 SF of Retail and 110,000 SF of Office availability
For information contact: Ann Bailey: 215-292-6100 annbailey@emoryhill.com Jon Hickey: 302-322-9500 x294 jonhickey@emoryhill.com
10 Corporate Cir., Ste. 100 New Castle, DE 302-322-9500 18335 Coastal Highway Lewes, DE 302.827.4940 www.emoryhill.com
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Business Report | March 2015
COVER STORY
NAI Emory Hill Lewes office is located on Coastal Highway.
Sussex County, Del., Market on the Move! Not only is spring on the horizon in Sussex County, Delaware; so is an increase in commercial real estate growth according to broker Ann Bailey, CCIM of NAI Emory Hill’s Lewes office. “We are experiencing a rise in rental rates in both the office and retail sector, not only along the Route 1 tourist corridor but along the east-west arterials as well,” Bailey said. “Steady economic growth in the region is driving this increase as more people of all ages continue to move to our coastal area. “
The announcement of the Bayhealth Medical network expansion in Milford and the probability of the Beebe Healthcare expansion in the RehobothLewes area demonstrate a growing need for medical and healthcare facilities and personnel. The need for quality office space is increasing as demonstrated by the low vacancy rate of approximately 6-7% along the Route 1 corridor. Rental rates vary based on age and location, and generally new space is renting in the $18-$22/SF
Golf is a big draw as this area has quite a few wonderful courses. 16
Business Report | March 2015
range. Sussex County also saw not only more seasonal, summer visitors than ever before this past year, but an increasing amount of visits during the fall and spring “shoulder” seasons. The attraction continAnn Bailey ues to be seaside relaxation and recreation, low real estate taxes, affordable living costs, and no sales tax. The east-west arterials on Route 9, Route 24 and Route 26 are also growing as the population further west continues to expand. Infrastructure and services, however, are slower to keep up. Those residents relocating to communities in western Sussex County also visit the coast to enjoy entertainment, the beach, boardwalk, restaurants and charitable and social events. Growth poses challenges, and from May until October there is increased traffic not only on Routes 1 but on Route 9, 24 and 26. However, DelDOT road improvements are taking place with sidewalk construction on Route 1 and road widening on Route 26. Retail development is also increasing, with more activity along the Route 1 corridor from the Nassau Bridge to Dewey
NAI Emory Hill has several new office listings in Sussex County including these two buildings on Coastal Highway in Lewes.
Beach. Rental rates remain solid and range from $18-$23/SF, again, depending on age and location. “Look for more national retailers to enter our market, another sure sign of positive growth,� Bailey said. Ann Bailey is a broker with NAI Emory Hill, which represents NAI Global in Delaware and Cecil County, Maryland and is a division of the Emory Hill Companies, which provides Delaware and the Mid-Atlantic region with commercial real estate brokerage, construction, property management, maintenance and residential real estate sales. Complete information is available at: www.emoryhill.com.
The commercial real estate firm also has several retail centers for lease including Bayshore Plaza on Rt. 24 in Long Neck and Mariners Plaza on Coastal Highway in Lewes.
The Delaware beaches are a major attraction in Sussex County. 17
Business Report | March 2015
Thinking about moving? Some questions first Today’s housing market presents considerable opportunities for potential home buyers with the right lifestyle reasons and job security. Prices are stabilizing across the U.S., interest rates are near historic lows and inventory levels are high in many areas. Even amid such incentives, many moveup home buyers remain on the fence about making the lifestyle change they desire due
to the concern over selling their current property. Consumers today are benefiting from the price corrections many markets have seen over the last few years. So while they may have seen the value of their current home decline, they are also finding that the “move up” home has also seen a beneficial price reduction. For example, the difference in a 20 percent price decline for a $300,000
to $400,000 home is $20,000. And, when the market improves and price appreciation returns, the more expensive home will see a higher dollar increase. While potential home buyers are likely aware of the positive impact of low interest rates, high inventory, tax benefits, and affordability of purchasing today, many are confused and concerned if now is indeed the right time for them to buy. Coldwell Banker Resort Realty offers the below five questions to help “move-up buyers” decide if now is the right time to make a move. • Have you built substantial equity in your current home? Home equity can be defined as the value of a home, minus the amount of outstanding debt. Although equity does not generally develop in the first few years of home ownership, five or more years of home payments may create significant unrealized gains. • Has your income or financial situation improved? Homeowners should consider their overall financial situation including current and future expenses in order to make an educated decision on price range for a new home. For example, an increase in salary may allow for an increased mortgage. • Has your lifestyle changed? Lifestyle changes are one of the most common reasons people choose to move. Starting or adding to a family may require an extra bedroom or additional square footage, as well as a desire to live closer to work or family may provide the impetus for a move to a larger home. • Is your current residence one that could potentially be rented out? For homeowners who are ready to make a move but are concerned about purchasing a new home before the current property is sold, renting out the current residence may be a viable option. • Are interest rates attractive? A low interest rate means lower mortgage payments on homes of the same price. Visit sites like Bankrate.com to get most up to date mortgage rates in your area. Coldwell Banker Resort Realty, 20184 Coastal Highway, Rehoboth Beach, 2275000, 800 Kings Highway, Lewes, 645-2881, 22350 Sussex Highway, Seaford, 629-5575, and 711 N. DuPont Blvd., Milford, 4228200, can be found online at www.cbanker. com. The company has served central and lower Delaware for over 30 years. Each office is independently owned and operated. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.
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Make your house a home at Mike’s Clearance Center “Build it and they will come,” Mike Bradley was advised in 2005 when the rented facility where he’d built his business, Mike’s Clearance Center, was about to be sold out from under him. He found property two miles north of the old location which had been just inside the Delaware line on U.S. 13 and had a building erected that was twice the size of the old one. And the people did come, loyal customers who followed him to the new location and new customers looking for a smaller operation with affordable prices on furniture and bedding. The furniture at Mike’s is all new, and ranges from casual to formal, country to modern. You can buy a single piece or a whole living room or bedroom set, including the mattresses. “We run as lean as possible and pass the savings on to the customer,” Bradley said. Even a website is an expense he can do without. “My priority is taking care of the people in the store. You can’t tell quality from a photo. Before you make a major purchase, you’ll want to have a look at it, get a feel for it. You can’t do that online. “My main concerns are to keep the pricing the same, the merchandise the same and the customers the same.” He has found his niche and wants to stay here, he added. “I like selling to the masses. I want my customers to be able to shop without being intimidated.” He is not concerned about expansion of other furniture stores in the area. “I’m like a hound dog next to the table. Sometimes the scraps are the best part of the meal,” he said. Since opening Mike’s Clearance Center in 1990, Bradley said, he has watched a trend develop in which furniture has become a commodity, just like electronic equipment that is usually replaced rather than repaired. People get tired of furniture after several years, he said. They are less inclined to buy heirloom furniture to pass down to their grandchildren. His customers would rather pay $600 to $800 on a sofa and replace it in seven to 10 years than to pay $2,500 to $3,000 or more for one that might last longer but will still show wear and tear. As for his employees, “they’re lifers,” he said. “I’m not training employees for someone else. I pay them well and treat them right because I want to keep them.” Bradley wants to keep his customers also, and one way he does that is to help with deliv-
eries himself. “I like to be busy, and I like to stay in touch. It surprises the customers when the owner of the business brings their furniture,” he explained. “My delivery guys are outstanding.” Bradley said he learned when he worked for Acme grocery store that customers always remember the last person they have contact with. “If the bag boy breaks the eggs, that’s
what they remember. Delivery is as important as any simple part of my business.” For Mike’s Clearance Center, success is not the first sale. It’s when customers send their family members and friends in, and when they come back for a repeat purchase. Visit Mike’s Clearance Center at 36404 Sussex Highway in Delmar, or call 302-8460310.
The Elements of Extraordinary Style Discover designer furniture and unique home accessories to enhance the look of every room in your home. RECLINERS ROCKERS SOFAS & LOVE SEATS DINING TABLES & CHAIRS END TABLES BAR STOOLS SYMBOL MATTRESSES & MUCH MORE
s ’ e Mik
CLEARANCE CENTER
Mon-Thurs 9-6, Fri 9-7 Sat 9-5:30 Sun 11-5
Rt. 13 South, Delmar, DE
846-0310 19
Business Report | March 2015
Seaford business specializes New tax rules in custom-designed kitchens By DOUG PHILLIPS, CPA
With their spouses, Mike Griffith and Charles Hardesty purchased Creative Kitchens and Floors from their former employers in 1993. Together they have 40 years of experience. Griffith, whose wife is Bonnie, is a certified kitchen designer, and Hardesty, married to Joan, is a professional floor installer. The two couples specialize in custom designed kitchens and baths in new and remodeled homes. They carry superior products and offer professional installation of cabinetry and floorcoverings. “We pride ourselves on giving one-on-one attention to each prospective client,” they say, whether the customer wants a complete design or just new countertops, cabinets or flooring. “If you’re a do-it-yourselfer we can supply cabinets at a discount and we will guarantee
the fit of every cabinet we sell, whether we do the installation or not,” they add. “Customer satisfaction is our primary goal.” Quality cabinet lines include Aristocraft, Brookhaven, Bertch/Legacy, and Wood Mode Custom Cabinetry. Choose countertops made of Caesarstone, ceramic tile, Dupont-Corian, granite, laminate, Meganite, Silestone or Zodiaq. Floorcoverings include six lines of carpet, Armstrong and Congoleum vinyl, Pergo laminate flooring or four name brands of hardwood flooring as well as ceramic tile. Stop in Creative Kitchens & Floors at 8 North Arch Street, around the corner from Seaford Middle School, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. or call (302) 629-3166 to make an evening appointment. For promotions and coupons, visit online at www.creativekitchensandfloors.com.
G
IN EL
D O M
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Professional Design & Installation of Cabinetry Cabinetry by
Wood-Mode • Brookhaven Legacy • Aristocraft
Floorcovering by
Armstrong • Mohawk and Shaw Counter Tops and Floor Coverings
kitchens and floors, inc. Corner of Arch & State Sts., Seaford, DE 20
Business Report | March 2015
Call Mike Griffith 629-3166 email: ckfinc@verizon.net 302
Businesses have a new set of Internal Revenue Service regulations to navigate this year. The rules will affect any business that repairs or improves its tangible assets, like buildings and equipment, and there is virtually no way to get around the new regulations. This is your typical bad news, good news situation. The bad news: applying the new regulations to your business situation will take more of your accountant’s time, and thus increase the cost of preparing your returns. Also, the complexities of initial compliance may make it more likely that you file for an extension on filing your return. The good news: the new regulations eliminate some of the guesswork that had been involved in tax preparation in years past, and there is a chance that you can recover some of the taxes paid in previous years by applying the new regulations to earlier returns. The new rules, called Tangible Asset & Repairs regulations, or TARS, are “allencompassing and complex, and implementation will require careful consideration of each taxpayer’s facts and circumstances,” according to a recent article in the Journal of Accountancy. And, the article warns, “taxpayers may need to devise new collection procedures to capture the necessary data to implement these regulations.” Chances are you have heard something about TARS already, since the new rules were issued in September 2013, but they didn’t take effect until the 2014 tax year. A recent announcement by the Internal Revenue Service, made on Feb. 13, makes an understanding of TARS even more important. The IRS announced provisions for relief for small businesses – defined as those with less than $10 million in assets as of the beginning of their 2014 tax year or with average annual gross receipts of less than $10 million for the three years prior to their 2014 tax year – allowing these taxpayers to elect to apply certain provisions of TARS on a prospective basis. The simplest way to start a discussion about TARS is to say that the rules the IRS uses for capitalizing (depreciating) assets and for deducting the cost of repairs on your tax return have changed. Because the rules are complex, most businesses will run into trouble if they try to make determinations
may require expertise of an accountant on their own. Although it will take a little more time, your accountant will be able to determine which expenses qualify as repairs under the new rules and can be deducted immediately and which ones must be depreciated over time. Your accountant should also be able to provide you with a summary of the new rules so the people who handle your books will know in the future how to classify expenses as they are incurred. Learning the new rules, and how they apply to your business, will be an educational process, so let’s take a look at some of the rules that you will most likely encounter. First, there is a general rule that amounts paid to improve a unit of property must be capitalized. An improvement is something that betters a unit of property, restores it or adapts it to a new and different use. On the other hand, expenses for repair and maintenance of a unit of property are deductible. The previous paragraph seems pretty clear – provided you understand what constitutes a “unit of property.” For example, consider the engine in one of the vehicles in your fleet. If you classify the engine as a “unit of property,” work done on the engine might well be considered an improvement, and have to be capitalized. However, if the vehicle is your “unit of property,” the work on the engine would most likely be considered a repair, since it enables the vehicle to run again, and the expense could be claimed as an immediate deduction. Your accountant can work with you to determine how to categorize the equipment and buildings owned by your company as “units of property” so the regulations will more often apply favorably to your situation. Next, consider the basic factors related to deductions for materials and supplies. You are allowed to deduct the amounts paid to produce and acquire materials and supplies that are consumed during the year by your business. A “unit of property” that has a useful economic life of no more than 12 months will qualify as materials and supplies under the new rules, provided that it costs $200 or less to acquire or produce. (This limit constitutes an increase over the $100 maximum in temporary regulations issued in 2011.) The new rules also include several “safe harbor” provisions. One of them permits businesses that have an “applicable financial statement” or AFS (ask your accountant for details) to claim deductions of up to $5,000 for the acquisition of certain tangible personal property.
Another “safe harbor” allows for certain routine maintenance deductions to be deducted rather than capitalized. Under the regulation, routine maintenance means recurring activities that keep business property in ordinarily efficient operating condition, such as inspection, cleaning, testing, and replacement of damaged or worn parts. The new regulations permit this deduction to be taken not only for equipment maintenance but for building maintenance as well. Opportunities for tax savings exist in areas where the new regulations permit businesses to take deductions rather than capitalizing expenses. If your business capitalized expenses in any prior year that might qualify for deductions under the new rules, you might want to consider correcting the treatment in 2014. Many business owners will find it prudent to ask their accountants to take the time to review their historical depreciation records to determine whether favorable adjustments are possible. Taxpayers should note that, with the new
Risk Control
Captives
regulations, it is likely that they will have to file at least one IRS Form 3115, Application for Change in Accounting Method, as evidence that they are changing, or have changed, procedures to comply with the new regulations. Of course, it is also possible that, under the new rules, a business may find that its tax liability will be greater than under the old ones. In such situations, taxpayers may sometimes be tempted to “play by the old rules” and hope that deductions being claimed will pass IRS muster. However, an IRS regulation allows for censure, suspension or prohibition from practicing before the IRS for any tax-preparation professional who willfully or recklessly signs a tax return that the professional knows or should know contains a position that lacks a reasonable basis. Doug Phillips is president and managing director of Horty & Horty P.A., a public accounting firm with offices in Dover and Wilmington.
Workers Compensation
lyonsinsurance.com Wilmington 302.658.5508
Rehoboth 302.227.7100
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Business Report | March 2015
PERSONNEL FILE
BAYHEALTH RECOGNIZES CRNAsBayhealth recently celebrated National Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists Week. Two student Registered Nurse Anesthetists, Michael Davis and Laura Covalli from Drexel University, promoted their specialty at a booth outside Kent General’s cafeteria. They answered questions and explained their career goals.
Phillips joins SCFCU
Sussex County Federal Credit Union has expanded its efforts to support small businesses with the addition of Christine Phillips. Phillips joins the credit union’s business development team of Deb Jewell and John Rodriguez. Combined, they have 28 years of experience in the financial Phillips industry.
Coldwell Banker welcomes realtors Coldwell Banker Resort Realty announces the addition of agents Debra Hartney, Rachael Carey and Roxanne Sprague. Hartney has joined the firm’s Milford branch. She launched her real estate career 17 years ago and has specialized in new construction sales since 2000. She is a graduate of Coastal Carolina University with a BA in sociology and health Hartney promotion. She is a member of the Sussex 22
Business Report | March 2015
County Association of Realtors, the Delaware Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. Carey and Sprague have joined the firm’s Seaford branch. Carey has worked as a realtor for over Carey seven years and has experience in residential, commercial, farm and property management. She is a Top Producer and has been recognized as a Five Star Professional. Rachael has a paralegal degree from Widener University. She is a Sprague member of the Sussex County Association of Realtors, the Delaware Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors. Sprague, who ran her own cleaning business for more than 20 years, orginally went into real estate with Era Curasi Realty in Montgomery, N.Y. She has also worked with Coldwell Banker Residential in Bethany Beach. She is a member of the Sussex County Association of Realtors, the Delaware Association of Realtors and the National Association of Realtors.
Rzewnicki named vice president
Chaz Rzwenicki has been appointed vice president of member services at Dover Federal Credit Union where he will be responsible for the lending, branch network and call center divisions of the credit Rzewnicki union. Rzwenicki has over 15 years of diversified credit union experience which includes sales, service, lending, collections, operations, compliance, branch and call center administration. Rzwenicki, who obtained his degree in business administration from Baker College, is working toward completing his master’s degree in strategic leadership from Central Michigan University.
Viselli promoted to chef
Scott Viselli has been promoted to chef at Papa Grande’s Coastal Taqueria in Fenwick Island. Viselli started with SoDel Concepts in 2013, when he joined the staff of Catch 54 in Fenwick Island. Viselli, who grew up in northern Virginia, worked in country clubs and later owned a seafood market and restaurant in his home state. Since moving to Delaware in 2009, he has worked at Two Seas in Dewey Beach, Viselli Rehoboth Seafood and The Globe in Berlin, Md. Viselli and his wife, Anne, have three sons and a daughter.
Wood joins Choptank Transport
Choptank Transport of Preston, Md., announces the appointment of Paul Wood as its new director of carrier services. From 1992 to 2010, Wood held several managerial positions at Tyson Foods in the warehouse and transportation division. Later, Wood was assigned project manager for the newly acquired Tom McLeod Software, transportation management platform. In 2010, Wood joined McLeod Software first as an implementation manager and then as a customer advocate. Accepting the new Wood position with Choptank Transport in January, Wood oversees carrier compliance and is responsible for strategic planning, carrier development and customer relations.
Hospice announces new hires
Delaware Hospice welcomes Donna M. Forster, Candice Graham and Susan P. Mumford. Donna M. Forster, Mohnton, Pa., joins Delaware Hospice as a registered nurse. She received her BSN from Bloomsburg University. Candice Graham, Dover, joins Delaware Hospice as a licensed practical nurse. She received her practical nursing degree from Delaware Technical Community CollegeDover. Susan P. Mumford, Lewes, joins
Delaware Hospice as a nurse practitioner. She received her post master certificatefamily nurse practitioner from the University of Delaware. She is a certified nurse educator, registered nurse and nursing instructor.
Burkle promoted to corporate chef
Scott Kammerer, president and CEO of SoDel Concepts, announces the promotion of Ronnie Burkle to corporate chef. Burkle, who grew up outside Philadelphia, got into cooking at an early age. At age 14, he got a job at the Cottage Café in Bethany Beach, which led to a series of restaurant positions in Bethany and Rehoboth as well as jobs in the Philadelphia area. Burkle studied at the Art Institute of Philadelphia and then moved to the beach full-time. His career with SoDel Concepts began as a sous chef at Catch 54 in Fenwick Island. Before his promotion, he was chef at NorthEast Seafood Kitchen. As corporate chef, Burkle is now in charge of the kitchens at Catch 54, Papa Grande’s Costal Taqueria – both in Fenwick Island – Matt’s Fish Camp in Bethany Beach, NorthEast Seafood Kitchen and Big Thunder Roadside Kitchen. Burkle lives in Millville with his wife and two sons.
Steinmann joins Thrivent Financial
Marshall K. Steinmann of Lewes has joined Thrivent Financial as a financial representative with the organization’s Pennsylvania/Delaware Regional Financial Office. Steinmann offers comprehensive financial strategies, personal customer service and a wide range of financial products. His office is located at 31401 Coventry Drive in Lewes. Before joining Thrivent Financial, Steinmann worked for the Boy Scouts of America. He graduated from Greensboro College, in Greensboro, NC, receiving a bachelor’s degree in religion and history. He attends Bethel United Methodist Church. “We see Marshall as a valuable addition to our office’s field staff,” said managing partner David Schairer, managing partner of the Pennsylvania/Delaware Regional Financial Office in Lancaster, Pa. “We look forward to the energy and dedication Marshall will bring to the team. He will play a key role in serving our members’ financial needs.”
RIBBON CUTTING - The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Milford, Owner and Operator Dawn Hart, Milford Mayor Bryan Shupe and chamber secretary Alicia Hollis celebrated a ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration for Girl Friday and Tranceformations Massage recently. Girl Friday provides landscaping, sitting, errands, cleaning, painting, tutoring, light snow removal and more. Tranceformations Massage can travel to you to provide you with a professional massages and/ or nail services. For more information on Girl Friday or Tranceformations Massage, contact Dawn Hart at 302-236-4565. Pictured from left: chamber secretary Alicia Hollis, business owner and operator Dawn Hart and Mayor Bryan Shupe.
FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM - Seven Bayhealth nurses have earned their stripes, after completing the fourth Bayhealth Emergency Department Fellowship, a 20-week education program for Bayhealth nurses with an interest in critical and emergency. The course, offered at Kent General and Milford Memorial hospitals, combines online emergency nursing modules, scenario-based (didactic) learning, and hands-on training on site in the emergency department. The seven fellows included Adriana White, RN; Deena Weeks, RN; Yesenia Rosado, RN; Katina Stamat RN, BSN; Allison Larusso, RN; Brittany Martin, RN; and Chris Betz, RN. 23
Business Report | March 2015
Repurpose content and grow your client base with translations . . . but use caution! By Patricia Rivera
any other foreign language? You avoid some common mistakes!
Here is a littleknown fact: More than 300 languages are spoken in the United States. That may sound like a lot, but, in fact, almost 7,000 Rivera languages are spoken worldwide. As marketers figure out how to reach more people, they’re looking toward populations that speak a language other than English. To be sure, it’s a smart way to repurpose content, particularly for organizations that develop educational content that could enlighten the lives of immigrants. Most marketers start the process of going multicultural with one language, the one most commonly used in their target communities. Nationwide, Spanish is by far the most-spoken non-English language in the U.S., according to the Census Bureau, followed by Chinese, Hindi, Urdu or other Indic languages, French or French Creole, and Tagalog. But in your quest to go multicultural, how do you ensure that the words carry the same meaning and editorial precision in Spanish or
Poor translations can mean trouble
Consider these five common mistakes that could spur a headache, at the least: • Choose the wrong people. When you decide it’s time to translate your content into another language, select the right people to do the job. Don’t try to do it yourself. Knowing another language doesn’t make you an expert. Likewise, don’t rely on a bilingual friend. Opt for trained and certified translators who have a deep understanding of both languages (such as Spanish and English). Remember, translation inaccuracies might render your digital content useless. • Work with a single translator. Take extra steps to make sure the translation is accurate, particularly when you’re dealing with a foreign language that you don’t understand. Don’t trust that a single translator will do the job correctly. As with any writing project, you need an editor and proofreader. Hire a team for your content. Demand the same high standards for the translation as for the original. After all, they both bear your name and reputation. • Provide incomplete specs. Once you’ve found the right people, make sure you’re telling them exactly what you want. Every
aspect of the project needs to be clear: What’s your purpose? What are the characteristics and education level of your target audience? What file format do you need? When’s the deadline? The translation specifications should be clear and complete to ensure a high-quality output. • Trust machine translations. Automated translations are OK to use if you’re browsing the web and you need to clarify the meaning of a foreign passage. But don’t use them to publish your information. The results can be very damaging. If you must, make sure a professional reads your text and corrects it. • Send incomplete copy for translation. If you’re still updating your final copy, you should wait until it’s finished. The process will be greatly hindered if you start sending messages like “add this here” or “add that there.” The overall consistency and coherence of the text can be severely damaged by last-minute additions. Patricia V. Rivera is owner of Hook PR Group, a content marketing consultancy in Lewes that develops strategic content, in English and Spanish, across multiple platforms — including email, social media, web, mobile and the press. To learn more visit, www.hookpr.com.
Tips for preventing — and surviving — house fires By Karen Weldin Stewart Delaware Insurance Commissioner You may have seen the recent tragic news out of Annapolis, Md., about a house fire that claimed the lives of two grandparents and four of their grandchildren. Authorities believe that the blaze was sparked by an electrical problem which ignited a live but dried-out Christmas tree. The most important thing you can do to ensure that your family is alerted of smoke and/or fire in the home is to make sure that there are numerous smoke detectors located throughout the home. The National Fire Protection Association says that smoke detectors should be installed on every floor, inside bedrooms, outside each sleeping area, and in the basement. Make sure that the bat24
Business Report | March 2015
teries are working in the smoke detectors at least once per season. Some people aren’t aware that there are two different kinds of smoke detectors: photoelectric and ionization. Photoelectric smoke alarms are more responsive to fires that begin with a long period of smoldering (called “smoldering fires”). Ionization smoke alarms are generally more responsive to flaming fires. For the best protection, use both types of alarms in your home. • Never leave an open flame (like candles) unattended. • Create an escape plan for each bedroom and each level of the home. Fire can spread throughout the entire home in just minutes. Practice the escape plans with everyone in the family during the day and in the dark. • The NFPA recommends that portable
space heaters should be kept at least three feet from flammable materials like curtains and furniture. • If you burn wood in your stove or fireplace be sure to empty the ashes into a metal container with a lid. Allow the ashes to sit at least three or four days before disposing. • According to the U.S. Fire Administration, fire departments respond to roughly 2,900 clothes dryer fires each year, with an estimated $35 million in property damage. The leading cause of these fires was the failure to properly clean the dryers. Clean the lint filter before and after each load of laundry. Replace coiled-wire foil or plastic venting with rigid, non-ribbed metal duc. Make sure the outdoor vent flap opens when the dryer is operating. Turn the dryer off if you leave home or when you go to bed.
Room for doctors, offices, in health pavilion By Mike McClure Three months after holding its grand opening, Delmarva Health Pavilion hosted Peninsula Regional Medical Center’s quarterly media luncheon. PRMC leases threefifths of the 48,000-square foot facility in Millsboro, with the other two-fifths available for lease. The multi-disciplinary healthcare facility was a collaboration between PRMC and Gillis Gilkerson. Current tenants include: Peninsula Regional Family Medicine Millsboro- Peninsula Regional Medical Group; Peninsula Orthopaedic Associates, P.A.; Peninsula/NRH Regional Rehab; Peninsula Regional Lab; and PRMC Home Scripts Millsboro (coming soon). According to Palmer Gillis, a partner with Gillis Gilkerson, most of the spaces are finished. He added that the company can have someone in the unoccupied space within 60 days. As of Jan. 30, when the press luncheon took place, there was 25,000 square feet of space available for lease. Gillis said the group has no timeline to fill the space. “I’ve had projects where it’s taken 10 years to fill up and I’ve had project it’s taken nine or 10 months to fill up,” said Gillis. Chris Hall, PRMC VP, Strategy and Business and Business Development, said some physicians use space in the facility like a condo, wheeling in equipment and seeing patients then leaving. The family medicine office moved into the building in late September. The office are could hold six to eight physicians. There currently two physicians using the space. The facility includes a full lab with the results processed at PRMC in Salisbury. Peninsula Radiology, a group partnership, will offer services such as MRI, CT, and eventually mammography. It too is connected to the hospital in Salisbury, allowing doctors to look at rest results right away since there are no doctors on staff in the office. The Delmarva Health Pavilion held its groundbreaking on Oct. 9, 2012, with the grand opening taking place Oct. 22, 2014. PRMC is hoping to open a similar health pavilion in Ocean Pines by late spring. That facility will offer a community pharmacy and drive up. The Millsboro facility will open its pharmacy in the near future. PRMC is considering a drive up there as well. PRMC has a partnership with Bayhealth, a medical group Hall says is likeminded that
Palmer Gillis of Gillis Gilkerson speaks about the Delmarva Health Pavilion during a media luncheon in tour.
is similar in size and services. “We started out with similar organizations, where it leads we don’t know,” Hall said during the Jan. 30 luncheon and tour.
An unfinished space at the Delmarva Health Pavilion in Millsboro. The facility, which opened last October, is collaboration between Peninsula Regional Medical Center and Gillis Gilkerson. Photos by Mike McClure
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Business Report | March 2015
BUSINESS LICENSES BETHANY BEACH Coffee, Jeremy Graham; 17 S. Pennsylvania Ave., Bethany Beach; professional and/or personal services Cozza, Teresa M., Beyond Coaching; 39528 Jefferson Bridge Rd., Bethany Beach; professional and/or personal services BRIDGEVILLE Affordable Home Repairs; 6 Cook St., Bridgeville; contractor-residential Agworks LLC; 11712 Glen Cir., Bridgeville; professional and/or personal services Southland Industrial Supply LLC; 618 Market St., Bridgeville; wholesaler-machinery equipment & supplies DELMAR Ammons, Martin L., Delmar Saw Shop; PO Box 507, Delmar; personal servicesgeneral repairperson Ammons, Martin L., Martin L. Ammons Farms; 36705 Bi State Blvd., Delmar; retailer-farm machinery dealer Piper, Geraldine M., Pipers Playhouse; 36298 Susan Beach Rd., Delmar; retailerrestaurant DOVER A Woman’s Touches Moving and Packing; 80 Royal Grant Way, Dover; drayperson/mover Berserk Enterprises LLC; 1782 S. Taylor Dr., Dover; wholesaler-transportation equipment BES Family Enterprises, Inc., Georgia Boy’s Bagel Cafe; 136 Greentree Dr., Dover; retailer-restaurant Brimars General Service LLC; 108 E. Sheldrake Cir., Dover; residential contractor/development Calan Corporation, Riverside Mobile Home Park, 151 Roosevelt Ave., Dover; personal services-mobile home park ChangingFacez Makeup Artistry; 642 Nimitz Rd., Dover; sales representative Clear Hope LLC, Visiting Angels of Dover; 230 Beiser Blvd., Ste. 101, Dover; professional and/or personal services Curto, Anthony; 19 Bellrive Ct., Dover; 26
Business Report | March 2015
contractor-residential Devane, Shanee; 262 E. Sheldrake Cir., Dover; direct care worker Event Personel Solutions, EP Solutions; 4322A Massachusetts Dr., Dover; professional and/or personal services Hola Hello Boutique; 3039 Raintree Dr., Dover; retailer-dry goods & apparel Holt, Parks H. III, Parks Purposelife Coaching; 9 Gristmill Dr., Dover; professional services-counselor Hygenie LLC, Enviro-Master of Delaware; 25 Maggies Way, Ste. 3, Dover; professional and/or personal services JJMax Contractor Drywall LLC, Jose Cruz Perez; 1133 S. Little Creek Rd., Trlr. 49, Dover; contractor-residential JN Construction LLC; 110 Katherine Dr., Dover; contractor-residential Macolm, Patricia A., Guiding Hands; 1275 N. Farmview Dr., Dover; professional and/or personal services McKinley, Larry; 5119 N. Dupont Hwy., Dover; commercial lessor Quality Home Improvements; 1440 John Clark Rd., Dover; contractor-residential Smile Place LLC; 773 S. Queen St., Dover; professional services-dental office Stryker, Amanda C., Amanda Szymczak, LPCMH; 22 S. Nace Ln., Dover; professional services-counselor Stuff You Up; 86 Peyton St., Dover; retailer-restaurant Sully’s Vapor Shop; 96 Salt Creek Dr., Unit 1, Dover; retailer-electrical goods Ulynx Golf LLC; 131 Sweetgum Dr., Dover; personal services-amusement conductor Vilone, Denise, California Dreamin; 235 W. Loockerman St., Dover; retailer-dry goods & apparel Walters, Kenpo; 250 Northdown Dr., Dover; professional and/or personal services Womens Empowerment Inc.; 9 E. Loockerman St., Ste. 3A, Dover; professional and/or personal services Xia Zhihong, Artful Wellness Body Works; 589 N. Dupont Hwy., Dover; professional and/or personal services GEORGETOWN CCES; 5 Helen St., Georgetown; residential contractor/developer
Family Rentals LLC; 24635 Hollytree Cir., Georgetown; lessee of tangible property/personal property GREENWOOD Anything’s Possible Handyman Inc.; 11546 Adamsville Rd., Greenwood; personal services-general repairperson Kelsey Ann Makeup Artistry; 11388 Sussex Hwy., Greenwood; professional and/ or personal services Walls, Joshua L. Sr., Walls & Sons; 14469 Sand Hill Rd., Greenwood; contractor-residential HARRINGTON Morrison, Anastasia A., Trinity Home Daycare; 19 W. Mispillion St., Harrington; professional and/or personal services Panda Property Investments LLC; 113 East St., Harrington; professional servicesreal estate broker LAUREL East Coast Steel Specialties LLC; 30835 Old Landing Rd., Laurel; contractor-residential JKara LLC; 11290 Trussom Pond Rd., Apt. F30, Laurel; retailer-metals & minerals LEWES Bateman Enterprises LLC, Hydroshield of Delmarva; 30723 Molly B Rd., Lewes; contractor-residential Carlisle, Clover, Cleaning Made Simple; 22388 Holly Oak Ln., Lewes; professional and/or personal services First State Petcare Company LLC, PUPS of Lewes; 117 2nd St., Lewes; retailervarious products Guyer Contracting LLC; 31662 Siham Rd., Lewes; contractor-residential Kristine Hutchison; 30152 Regatta Bay Blvd., Lewes; contractor-residential Leny Cleaning LLC; 34510 Bushnell Ct., Unit 7, Lewes; professional and/or personal services SBC Management Services LLC, Swift Payroll; 17569 Nassau Commons Blvd., Lewes; professional and/or personal services
MILFORD Kraft, Janice A., Love2Sew4Kids; 806B Moyer Cir., E, Milford; retailer-dry goods & apparel Real Estate Resource LLC; 20576 Wilson Dr., Milford; reconciliation purpose code MILLSBORO Bonnie Lee Reed, Holistic Healthy Life; 36285 Sandy Ln., Millsboro; professional and/or personal services Bread Winner; 29308 Raccoons Pt., Millsboro; wholesaler-food (except processor) Colby, Gordon J., Gordons Handyman Services; 35310 Bay Winds Ln., Millsboro; contractor-residential Conaway Developers; 29753 Millsboro Hwy., Millsboro; residential contractor/ development Delmar Vapor Lounge; 28521 Dupont Blvd., Unit 4, Millsboro; retailer-various
products Families 1st Choice Home Care; 29787 John J. Williams Hwy., Unit 5, Millsboro; professional and/or personal services Fisher, William, Dune Technology and Security; 36914 Nob Hill, N., Millsboro; professional services-security business Montague, Marion Jo Ann, Kids Design Crafts; 34351 Cowhouse Branch Rd., Millsboro; retailer-various products Patriot Firearm Safety LLC; 6 Arrowhead Trl., Millsboro; professional and/or personal services Powers Properties LLC; 29549 Whitstone Ln., Millsboro; reconciliation purpose code Singer, Richard L., Total Comfort; PO Box 78, Millsboro; contractor-residential SEAFORD Bookkeeping Plus LLC; 10477 Foxtail Ct., Seaford; professional and/or personal services-unclassified Congadanga Entertainment; 724
Rosetree Ln., Seaford; wholesaler-any products Exterior Homeworks LLC; 18 E. 6th St., Seaford; contractor-residential Little Sprouts Learning Academy; 425 Stein Hwy., Seaford; professional and/or personal services MD Investments LLC, Easy Living One LLC; 5707 Galestown Reliance Rd., Seaford; retailer-various products
SMYRNA 1st State Bowstrings; 2467 Sunnyside Rd., Smyrna; wholesaler-any products Johnson Mechanical; 90 Malvern Ln., Apt. 6, Smyrna; personal services-general repairperson Moore, Tom, ICracked; 110 Hunting Way, Smyrna; personal services-general repairperson Sheridan, Ross A., Sheridan Consulting; 44 W. Commerce St., Smyrna; professional and/or personal services
HOSPICE RECEIVES DONATION - Delaware Hospice appreciates the hard work of the home-grown community-centered organization, The Rose Colored Lasses, for their continued support over the past 10 years. For the past two years, The Rose Colored Lasses have held a Christmas House Tour to raise money for the Delaware Hospice Center in Milford. This past year’s tour raised $2,400 for Delaware Hospice. Delivering a check, back row, from left: Harriet Davies; Dee Greenlee; June Allen; Judy Woofter; Linda Potter, Delaware Hospice medical office manager; Sharon Brown; Becky Sharp; Peggy Dolby, Delaware Hospice assistant director of development. Front row: Rosi Babel; Debbie Taylor, clinical supervision of inpatient services; Norn Aquilani. 27
Business Report | March 2015
Two additional garden centers to choose from, and a place to go for classes By Annette Silva
Barton’s: Growing a business
With its home office located in Seaford, Barton’s Landscaping has grown over the years from a Southern States store with a side lot that sells plants and an indoor shop with garden and feed supplies. Phil Barton grew up in Laurel doing gardening during his summer vacations. In 1986, Phil teamed up with Tim Conaway and in 1990 they moved to Seaford to expand their operation geographically and creatively. Barton’s Landscaping now does “Outdoor living,” hardscapes for commercial and residential customers as well as ornamental gardens for just about anyone who can afford it. They still sell plants, only now you’ll find a larger variety of ornamentals, perennials, shrubs and trees. If you want to do your own landscaping, they sell varied (field to flag to slate) stone palettes, mulch by bag or truckload and home gardener pre-cut stones and ornaments. A large part of Barton’s Landscaping has become commercial customers all over the county. They plan and maintain hospital grounds and country clubs; they build retaining walls, decorative walls and sitting walls. They build patios, paths, and plan garden plantings. As a full-service garden center, Barton’s can do just about everything, including irrigation. Phil says the “design and build” aspect of creating your outdoor living space is Barton’s specialty. “From the first creative idea to the construction and completion of the project we are with you all the way.” And they instruct customers on maintenance
or, in fact, create maintenance plans with customers. If you have pictures or ideas of something beautiful you’d like to adapt to your own property, bring it to Barton’s designers, Barton says. “We will create your own personal hardscape with a trellis, cupola or a garden room.” Barton’s is located on the northeast side of Seaford on U.S. 13. They are open Monday through Fridays until 6 p.m. and Saturday until noon.
Gardening with a budget
In the past few years, Lowe’s Garden Center has increasingly offered unusual and hardy plants for home gardeners who like to do their own planning and work. Lowe’s has increased its variety and species to offer unusual hybrids and shade tolerant ornamentals. There is actually a Master Gardener who works at Lowe’s part-time who will tell you everything you want to know about plants: How to grow them, what kind of soil and light they need and how much and often to fertilize. Paul Alexander, a certified Master Gardener, sold me an ornamental peach that still adorns our patio after four years. Every spring it blossoms beautifully because I planted it and fertilize it according to Paul. Vicki Skirka, the Nursery Specialist at Lowe’s Garden Center in Seaford, said the garden center will be getting in its trees, shrubs, boxwood and Nandina in late February. “In March we will have the Mediterranean heather, snap dragons, pansies and Dianthus,” said Skirka. For those of you who are dying to have a living thing in your house now, the early-blooming daffodils and
‘Let Nature never be forgot’ Continued from page 9
In addition to working alongside his dad in the family business for 25 years, Chris continued his studies of horticulture and garden management. Now he gives seminars along the East Coast on the subject. “Along the way, I’ve had time to create and learn by doing,” he said. “We are definitely a family business. This is a full-time job of keeping all gears moving in the right 28
Business Report | March 2015
direction.” One could allude to revolutions per minute. The Revolutionary 100 program, which began in 2006, surveys garden centers and managers throughout the country. The requisites include customer and community service, a creative management philosophy, marketing skills, use of technology, purchasing and, of course, profitability…without which they couldn’t survive. A poem written by Alexander Pope in
hyancinths will be available in mid-February. Of course, as most people know, Lowe’s sells hardscaping materials to make your own patio, path or just to create edging around a bed. The helpful workers at Lowe’s will help you load up your truck, van or trunk, but when you get home you are on your own. Then the fun begins. That’s why you might want to browse the gardening books in the front of the store.
Back to school for gardening
The University of Delaware Cooperative Extension program is offering classes for fledgling to avid gardeners in its 2015 UD Horticulture Short Courses. The Co-op Extension courses are organized by Tracy Wootten in Sussex County, Jan Unflat in Kent County and Carrie Murphy in New Castle County. There are new offerings this spring that cost $10 to $15 a session. A sample includes: “Pruning, Wednesday, March 4, 4:30 – 5:30 pm in Newark’s UD Delaware Botanic Gardens (UDBG with instructor Sue Barton): “Plant Identification – Evergreens, March 18, 4:30-5:30 pm, UDBG with Valann Budischak and Sue Barton.” A brief run-down of classes offered includes: “soils”, “plant identification”, weed identification/maintenance,” “disease and insect identification workshop”, “turf maintenance,” “small flowering trees” and a new class on hostas offered by a Master Gardener. The listing for all classes in three counties can be found at http://extension.udel. edu/ag/. There are classes offered in all three counties. To locate and register for offerings in Sussex County, call Tracy Wootten (302) 856-7303 or email her at wootten@udel.edu.
1731 could apply to revolutionary gardens in a back-to-the-future state of mind: “To build, to plant, whatever you intend; To rear the column, or the arch to bend; To swell the terrace, or to sink the grot; In all, let Nature never be forgot.” Cordrey Garden Center is located on Cordrey Road, east of Millsboro. The winter indoor farm market is open every Tuesday from noon to 3 p.m. through March 17.
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BUSINESS DIRECTORY ACCOUNTING Horty & Horty, P.A. Doug Phillips, CPA, Cr.FA 302-730-4560 cpainfo@horty.com 3702 N. DuPont Hwy. Dover, DE 19901 ADVERTISING Morning Star Business Report Chris Redman 302-629-9788 302-629-9243 fax www.msbusinessreport.com sales@mspublications.com 951 Norman Eskridge Hwy. P.O. Box 1000 Seaford, DE 19973 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce Kristie Maravalli 302-539-2100 302-539-9434 fax www.bethany-fenwick.org info@bethany-fenwick.org 36913 Coastal Highway Fenwick Island, DE 19944 Central Delaware Chamber of Commerce Judy Diogo 302-734-7513 302-678-0189 fax www.cdcc.net jdiogo@cdcc.net 435 N. DuPont Hwy. Dover, DE 19901 Chamber of Commerce for Greater Milford Jo Schmeiser 302-422-3344 302-422-7503 fax www.milford.com 411 N. Rehoboth Blvd. Milford, DE 19963 30
Business Report | March 2015
Georgetown Chamber of Commerce Karen Duffield 302-856-1544 302-856-1577 fax www.georgetowncoc.com info@georgetowncoc.com 827 E. Market St., PO Box 1 Georgetown, DE 19947 Lewes Chamber of Commerce Betsy Reamer 302-645-8073 Toll Free 877-465-3937 302-645-8412 fax www.leweschamber.com inquiry@leweschamber.com 120 Kings Hwy., P.O. Box 1 Lewes, DE 19958 Greater Millsboro Chamber of Commerce Amy Simmons 302-934-6777 302-934-6065 fax www.millsborochamber.com info@millsborochamber.com P.O. Box 187 Millsboro, DE 19966 Milton Chamber of Commerce Lisa Sumstine 302-684-1101 www.historicmilton.com chamber@historicmilton.com 707 Chestnut St., P.O. Box 61 Milton, DE 19968 Rehoboth Beach - Dewey Beach Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center Carol Everhart 302-227-6446 302-227-2233 ext. 13 302-227-8351 fax www.beach-fun.com carol@beach-fun.com 501 Rehoboth Ave. Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
Greater Seaford Chamber of Commerce Lynn Brocato 302-629-9690 302-629-0281 fax www.seafordchamber.com admin@seafordchamber. com 304 A High St. Seaford, DE 19973 EDUCATION Delaware Technical Community College Corporate and Community Programs Christopher M. Moody, Director (302) 259-6330 302-259-6759 fax www.dtcc.edu/owens/ccp cmoody@dtcc.edu Jason Technology Center 21179 College Drive Georgetown, DE 19947 University of Delaware Professional & Continuing Studies Tara Kee 866-820-0238 302-831-3292 fax www.pcs.udel.edu continuing-ed@udel.edu FINANCIAL Bank of Delmarva Scott Rukowicz 302-875-5901 302-875-1766 fax www.bankofdelmarva.com srukowicz@bankofdelmarva. com 200 East Market St. Laurel, DE 19956
County Bank 7 Sussex County Locations 302-226-9800 302-226-3182 fax www.CountyBankDel.com 19927 Shuttle Rd. (Main Office) Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 Del One Federal Credit Union 9 Statewide Locations Amy Resh 302-672-1492 302-739-1790 fax www.Del-One.org amy.resh@del-one.org 270 Beiser Blvd. Dover, DE 19904 Delaware State Police Federal Credit Union Stephen Cimo 302-856-3501 ext. 120 302-856-2539 fax www.dspfcu.com scimo@dspfcu.com P.O. Box 800 Georgetown, DE 19947 Edward Jones Investments John F. Rittenhouse Sr, AAMS速, FInancial Advisor 302-629-6094 john.rittenhouse@ edwardjones. com 559 N. Hall St. Seaford, DE 19973 Sussex County Federal Credit Union Debbie Jewell 302-629-0100 302-629-0966 fax www.sussexcfcu.com djewell@sussexcfcu.com 1941 Bridgeville Hwy. Seaford, DE 19973
FUNERAL SERVICES Watson Yates Funeral Home Gary Yates 302-629-8561 302-629-7961 fax Front & King St. Seaford, DE 19973 GRAPHIC/WEBSITE DESIGN Dean Design Marketing Group Jane E. Dean 302-674-5007 302-229-3633 717-898-9570 fax www.deandesign.com thestudio@deandesign.com 13 Water St. Lincoln, DE 19960
INSURANCE Farnell & Gast Insurance Joe Gast, CPCU 302-629-4514 302-536-6257 fax www.averyhall.com jgast@averyhall.com dflood@averyhall.com 500 W. Stein Highway Seaford, DE 19973 IFS Benefits Patrick Fitzgerald Ryan Dunn Bob Sonchen 302-645-2356 302-645-5723 fax www.ifs-benefits.com 17527 Nassau Commons Blvd Suite 208 Lewes DE 19958
HEALTH Bayhealth Kent General Milford Memorial Pam Marecki 302-744-7013 302-735-3227 fax www.bayhealth.org pam_marecki@bayhealth. org 640 S. State St. Dover, DE 19901
Lyons Companies David F. Lyons, Sr. David F. Lyons, Jr. Lew Harrington 302-227-7100 www.lyonsinsurance.com info@lyonsinsurance.com 19643 Blue Bird Lane, Unit 8 Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
Beebe Medical Center Kelly Griffin 302-645-3220 302-644-9032 fax www.beebemed.org kgriffin@bbmc.org 424 Savannah Rd. Lewes, DE 19958
INTERNET SERVICE & WEB PAGE DESIGN Delmarva Digital Tim Smith 302-875-7700 302-875-8288 fax www.ddmg.net ddmg.netsales@ddmg.net 220 Laureltowne Laurel, DE 19956
Nanticoke Health Services Sharon Harrington 302-629-6611 302-629-3211 fax www.nanticoke.org harringtons@nanticoke.org 801 Middleford Rd. Seaford, DE 19973
INVESTIGATIVE & COLLECTION SERVICES Mohr Investigative Services, Inc. James W. Mohrmann 866-370-1004
www.mohrinvestigations. com jmohrmann@mohrinvestigations.com 9 East Loockerman Street, Suite 201 Dover, DE 19901 JEWELERS Holland Jewelers 302-947-1200 20750 John J. Williams Hwy. Peddlers Village Lewes, DE 19958 www.hollandjewelersinc@ yahoo.com LEGAL Sergovic, Carmean & Weidman, P.A Attorneys At Law John A. Sergovic, Jr. Shannon D. Carmean Leslie Case DiPietro 302-855-1260 302-855-1270 fax www.scdelaw.com 142 E. Market St. PO Box 751 Georgetown, DE 19947 Law Offices of Karen Y. Vicks, LLC 302-674-1100 888-598-8890 kvicks@vickslaw.com 500 W. Loockerman St. Suite 102 Dover, DE 19904 PORTRAITS Portraits In The Sand Dave Koster 302-226-9226 302-226-8424 fax www.portraitsinthesand.com businessreport@portraitsinthesand.com 110 White Oak Rd. Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 31
REAL ESTATE Callaway, Farnell and Moore, Inc. 302-629-4514 302-628-8500 800-966-4514 www.cfmnet.com admin@cfmnet.com 500 W. Stein Hwy. 22128 Sussex Hwy. Seaford, DE 19973 Coldwell Banker Resort Realty Skip Faust 302-227-5000 office 302-745-8764 cell 302-227-3804 fax www.skipfaust.com skipfaust@hotmail.com 20184 Coastal Hwy. Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971 Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. Tracey Espada 302-227-2541 800-462-3224 302-227-8165 fax www.longandfosterde.com 37156 Rehoboth Ave. Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971
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Business Report | March 2015