Southern Delaware Tourism Launches New Restaurant Website
GEORGETOWN – The Southern Delaware Tourism office has launched a new website, Culinary Coast, to showcase restaurants, breweries, and farmers markets in Sussex County.
Culinary Coast provides users with the flexibility to select from a variety of cuisines, including those that feature vegan and vegetarian choices, cooking classes, and food festivals.
Tina Coleman, communication manager at Southern Delaware Tourism, told Delaware Business Times the new website is designed to provide users with a convenient platform to discover new restaurants and events.
“Not only will visitors find all the information and listings they need, but they’ll be treated to a richer virtual experience of the Culinary Coast featuring the stories and people that make Southern Delaware such a vibrant culinary destination,” Coleman said. “As we continue to add content, our goal is to create a virtual feast that makes people hungry to visit.”
The Southern Delaware Tourism office announces that the new website will serve as a destination for users looking to explore the culinary scene and to boost visitation and aid in travel planning.
It also offers a blog that welcomes guest posts from Culinary Coast chefs, restaurateurs, and producers; a news section; local chef bios; and agritourism and aquaculture components.
Are you in search of a vibrant and welcoming place to live? Look no further than the charming state of Delaware. Living in Delaware offers a unique blend of communities and neighborhoods catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Beyond its picturesque landscapes and historic sites, Delaware cities thrive with lively community events, a dedication to education, and cultural attractions that bring residents together and make it an exciting place to call home.
Delaware’s communities and neighborhoods are as diverse as its residents. From the historic streets of Wilmington to the coastal tranquility of Lewes, you’ll find a wide array of options to suit your lifestyle. The state’s cities, such as Wilmington and Newark, offer a bustling urban experience with vibrant downtowns, eclectic dining options, and cultural attractions. For those seeking a more suburban or rural setting, picturesque towns like Middletown and Dover provide the perfect balance of tranquility and convenience. Delaware’s communities pride themselves on their tight-knit nature, making it easy to forge meaningful connections with your neighbors.
Explore Delaware Events
There are many reasons why living in Delaware is exciting. No matter the season, there’s always something happening. In the spring, the annual Dover Days Festival celebrates the state’s heritage with parades, historical reenactments, and arts and crafts vendors. As summer rolls around, the picturesque beaches of Rehoboth and Bethany host free concerts, fireworks, and art fairs. Autumn brings the charming Hagley Craft Fair, where local artisans showcase their handcrafted goods. And as winter approaches, you can embrace the holiday spirit with the stunning Winterthur Yuletide Tour, which transforms a historic mansion into a winter wonderland. These events not only offer entertainment but also foster a sense of community and togetherness among Delaware’s residents.
Delaware’s Education and Culture
Delaware’s commitment to education, culture, and the arts also contributes to its appeal. The state is home to renowned institutions like the University of Delaware and Delaware State University, providing a hub of learning and innovation. You’ll find world-class museums, such as the Delaware Art Museum and Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library, where you can immerse yourself in art, history, and culture. The Delaware Symphony Orchestra and numerous theaters and performing arts centers ensure that there’s always a live performance or show to enjoy.
Life in Delaware Checks All the Boxes
The natural beauty of Delaware further enhances its allure. The state boasts a picturesque coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, where you can relax on sandy beaches, indulge in water sports, or simply enjoy a serene sunset. Delaware’s numerous state parks and wildlife reserves offer endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, from hiking and biking to birdwatching and kayaking. The scenic Brandywine Valley and charming countryside provide an idyllic backdrop for leisurely drives and exploration.
Whether you prefer the urban buzz of Wilmington or the coastal charm of Lewes, Delaware has something to offer everyone. Its commitment to education and the arts, along with its natural beauty, make it a truly enchanting state to call home. So, why wait? Come and discover the unique benefits of living in Delaware and you’ll quickly understand why it’s such an exciting place to live.
Margaret H. Rollins School of Nursing Class of 2023: Front row, left to right: Marissa Malone, Abigail Derrickson, Michelle Littleton, Gianna Vayda, Madison Tuttle. Second row, left to right: Lillian Santana Lima, Emily Joynt, Ava Moroz, Carleigh Zerkle, Alexandra Marion, Sara Robinson. Third row, left to right: Vicky Murat, Lauren Gulbronson, Madison Hoehn, Makayla Hosler, Abby Olshenske, Sheena Stevenson. Back row, left to right: Julia Jordan, Nathaniel Signor, Hayley McCabe, Madisyn Williams, Sara Wallace, Jessica Rigby, Kirsten Taylor.
LEWES, Delaware– All graduates from the Class of 2023 at the Margaret H. Rollins School of Nursing at Beebe Healthcare have passed the national examination for licensure as a registered nurse (RN). The 100 percent pass rate by students is not the first time the feat has been accomplished at the Rollins School of Nursing.
This accomplishment ranks the Rollins graduates at the top among all RN programs in the Mid-Atlantic region. The Rollins School of Nursing prides itself on outstanding outcomes, with National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) success being a top priority. This continues a long tradition of excellence in nursing education at Beebe Healthcare.
“Beebe Healthcare leadership and the School of Nursing faculty congratulate the Class of 2023 on their success and welcome them to the nursing profession,” said Karen Pickard, DNP, CNE, NEA-BC, director, Margaret H. Rollins School of Nursing. “Graduates of the School of Nursing are well-prepared both academically and clinically to transition into practice and to further their education thanks to our amazing faculty and facilities at Beebe.”
The Margaret H. Rollins School of Nursing is the only hospital-based nursing program in Delaware. Throughout its history, it has consistently prepared its students to earn high pass rates on the nursing licensure examination. The Diploma in Professional Nursing is awarded at the completion of the program, qualifying graduates to be eligible to sit for the National Council of State Boards of Nursing NCLEX examination, leading to licensure as a RN.
The School of Nursing is owned by Beebe Healthcare, which enables the program’s nursing students opportunities in clinical areas that are unsurpassed by other educational programs. The hospital continues to hire 80% to 100% of the program’s graduates, which promotes the graduates’ professional transition to practice in the nursing profession.
The School of Nursing continues to update and revise its curriculum so that the most advanced, evidence-based education is provided. Lifelong learning and the advancement of education is integrated throughout the curriculum and the philosophy of the school.
Beebe Healthcare is a not-for-profit community healthcare system with a charitable mission to encourage healthy living, prevent illness and restore optimal health for the people who live in, work in and visit the communities it serves. Beebe has three campuses: the Margaret H. Rollins Lewes Campus, which houses the medical center; the Rehoboth Health Campus; and the South Coastal Health Campus. Beebe offers primary care as well as specialized services in the areas of cardiovascular, oncology, orthopaedics, general surgery, robotic surgery and women’s health. Beebe also offers walk-in care and lab, imaging and physical rehabilitation services at several locations throughout Sussex County, in addition to a home health program and a comprehensive community health program.
Magazine lauds Northern Delaware location for community, quality of life and outdoor access
Outside Magazine has identified Wilmington, Delaware, as one of the “15 Happiest Places to Live in the U.S.” The publication noted that greenspace has long been valued in Wilmington and that 98 percent of Wilmington residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park.
“Situated within reach of Philadelphia (a 20-minute train ride), New York City, Baltimore and Washington, D.C., this place prides itself on outsize access to the outdoors,” said the article. “Locals love its walkability, abundance of parks (nearly 70), revitalized downtown and riverfront and proximity to Mid-Atlantic beaches.”
To compile its list, Outside examined criteria such as overall well-being, percentage of public land, affordability, climate change effects and community inclusivity. Findings were based on statistics from Sharecare, Headwater Economics, the Trust for Public Land, The New York Times, the University of Notre Dame, the Human Rights Campaign, the U.S. Census Bureau and Redfin.
Among the attractions cited in the Wilmington entry were the Northern Delaware Greenway Trail, whose more than 10 paved miles link “parks, playgrounds, historic estates, the Brandywine Zoo, museums, commercial zones and schools,” and the 5.5-mile Jack A. Markell Trail, which runs along the Christina Riverfront from the Russell W. Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge to New Castle. Also referenced were Alapocas Run, including its 12 bolted climbing routes on Delaware’s only crag, and the access and engagement provided by free entrance and community programming at the three Wilmington State Parks: Brandywine Park, Rockford Park and H. Fletcher Brown Park. Wilmington’s promotion of inclusivity, particularly for the LGBTQ+ community, and its celebration of music through events such as the free Clifford Brown Jazz Festival were noted as well.
The other places identified on the “15 Happiest” list include Reno, Nevada; New Orleans, Louisiana; Cincinnati, Ohio; Charlottesville, Virginia; Hood River, Oregon; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Glenwood Springs, Colorado; Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; Plano, Texas; Anchorage, Alaska; Madison, Wisconsin; Frederick, Maryland; Saint Petersburg, Florida; and Tacoma, Washington.
Cutting the ribbon at the new Springhill Suites by Marriott in Frederica Aug. 22 is Michael Meoli, third from right, with his family, business partners, and leaders from town, county and state governments. Meoli is president of Meoli Companies and principal owner of Asbury Hospitality LLC. Ben Mace, Delaware News Journal
New hotel first of several businesses planned near DE Turf sports complex in Kent County
A new hotel on Route 1 in Frederica will be the first of what could be multiple developments catering to the thousands of visitors each year at the DE Turf sports complex in central Kent County.
The grand opening was held Tuesday for SpringHill Suites by Marriott, an 86-room hotel with a conference/banquet room with a capacity for 66 people, an indoor pool, exercise room and upscale lobby with artwork, tables, chairs, couches and televisions.
“This hotel represents the next iteration of what DE Turf is designed to do: spur economic growth here in Kent County,” said Michael Meoli, president of Meoli Cos., which owns hotels and McDonald’s restaurants in Delaware and Maryland.
On Route 1 south across from the sports complex, the hotel’s address is 208 Dominus Drive at Exit 83, an exit that could soon be the home of restaurants, gas stations, convenience stores and retail stores.
The hotel is part of Asbury Square, about 22 acres that Meoli’s company is developing with six other commercial “pad sites.” One other business already under construction is Empire Wine & Spirits, which also has a store in Middletown. Meoli is the principal owner of Asbury Hospitality LLC, and his partners in Asbury Square are John Paradee and Mike Koppenhaver.
Meoli said what initially drew his attention to the Frederica site was DE Turf. Then the highway interchange with the exit and overpass was built for easy access to and from the sports facility. The third factor was Bayhealth’s new Sussex Campus hospital nearby in Milford with the addition of Nemours Children’s Health.
“With those generating demand, you could see this area needs lodging,” Meoli said. “And we’ll also have guests who are visiting Delaware and traveling through the state.”
The hotel employs a staff of about 25.
Those numbers already sound good to Frederica Mayor William “Chick” Glanden, who said the hotel signals the tip of the iceberg as far as new businesses in the area.
“We need jobs, especially for young people, and this will also help our town’s tax base,” Glanden said.
In the 20 years he’s been mayor, the two biggest development projects in town limits are these Asbury Square plans and a new 285-home home neighborhood, which could boost the town’s population by 50% or more, he said. The U.S. Census Bureau estimated the population at 1,100 in 2022.
Meoli expects the Frederica area near DE Turf to “really take off in the next five to seven years. We’re just on the front end of it.”
Sports facility operates 42 weeks each year
Bill Strickland, chairman of the DE Turf board, said the sports complex was envisioned to be a catalyst for economic growth in Kent County and the new hotel is “the next step in the realization of that vision.”
Opening in 2017, DE Turf now holds sports tournaments and instructional programs 42 weeks a year, primarily on weekends with some week-long sessions. The facility has 12 artificial turf fields, all with lights.
The primary sports at the facility are soccer, lacrosse, field hockey and flag football. Teams have come to play from more than 30 states.
Strickland credited the county leaders who advocated for the sports complex including Linda Parkowski, executive director of the Kent Economic Partnership, who received multiple requests for a sports tournament venue when she was state director of tourism.
She called DE Turf a “field of dreams” and said, “For me, today is about courage.”
She thanked Meoli and his partners for their courage in being the first to develop property near the sports complex, the Kent Levy Court commissioners for having courage to sign a long-term lease for the sports facility, and the DE Turf leaders for the courage to persevere in the face of numerous obstacles.
As an example of how the sports complex is driving visitors to the hotel, during a tournament in November, the hotel is already 80% booked with rooms going for as much as $330 per night.
Strickland credited the county leaders who advocated for the sports complex including Linda Parkowski, executive director of the Kent Economic Partnership, who received multiple requests for a sports tournament venue when she was state director of tourism.
She called DE Turf a “field of dreams” and said, “For me, today is about courage.”
She thanked Meoli and his partners for their courage in being the first to develop property near the sports complex, the Kent Levy Court commissioners for having courage to sign a long-term lease for the sports facility, and the DE Turf leaders for the courage to persevere in the face of numerous obstacles.
As an example of how the sports complex is driving visitors to the hotel, during a tournament in November, the hotel is already 80% booked with rooms going for as much as $330 per night.
DE Turf Brings Sports, Community Together in Central Delaware
In this DPP video, DE Turf Executive Director Angie Eliason shares how access and a central location attracts teams and families from all over the state, region and beyond to Delaware.
If you are in the market for a new home, you may wonder which state is the best choice for your investment. One state that often comes up in these discussions is Delaware and for good reason! Delaware has a lot to offer, from a thriving economy to a rich cultural heritage. In this post, we’ll explore some of the reasons why Delaware is a great state to purchase a home.
Low Property Taxes
Low property taxes are among the biggest draws to purchasing a home in Delaware. As of 2023 Delaware has the 6th effective property tax rate in the United States.
Thriving Economy
Delaware is home to a number of thriving industries, including pharmaceuticals, healthcare, financial services, and technology. The state houses prominent companies like DuPont, AstraZeneca, and JPMorgan Chase. Delaware’s workforce stands out for its expertise and knowledge across various sectors, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and professional development. With a highly skilled workforce, the state offers plentiful career opportunities and a high household income — 5.4% higher than the national median. As a result, Delaware is a great place to start your search if you’re looking for job opportunities.
Rich Cultural Heritage
Delaware is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The state was the first to ratify the U.S. Constitution and played an important role in the Underground Railroad. Today, Delaware is home to several museums and historical sites, including the Hagley Museum and Library, the Winterthur Museum, and the Delaware Art Museum. In addition, the state is known for its thriving arts and music scene, hosting many festivals and events throughout the year.
Beautiful Beaches
Delaware’s coastline is a welcome escape for beach lovers. With its sparkling shores, the state boasts some breathtaking views on the East Coast, including the renowned Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, and Bethany Beach. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly activities, exhilarating water sports, or vibrant nightlife, these beaches have something to offer for everyone. Immerse yourself in the sun and sand to create unforgettable memories along Delaware’s coastline.
Education System
Delaware’s education system is highly regarded for its commitment to fostering academic excellence and nurturing the intellectual growth of its students. The state places a strong emphasis on providing quality education to its residents, preparing them for success in a rapidly evolving world. Delaware’s educators are dedicated professionals who strive to inspire and empower students to reach their full potential. The state promotes a well-rounded education, encompassing not only core subjects but also arts, sports, and extracurricular activities. Through a combination of innovative teaching methods, personalized learning, and community engagement, Delaware’s education system aims to cultivate critical thinking, creativity, and lifelong learning skills in its students.
Convenient Location
Finally, Delaware’s convenient location makes it a great place to call home. The state is located in the heart of the Mid-Atlantic region, with easy access to major cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, New York City, and Washington, D.C. In addition, Delaware is served by many major highways and Philadelphia International Airport, making travel easy and convenient.
The recent addition of Avelo Airlines offers convenient flight options for travelers flying from the Wilmington Airport. Avelo Airlines is a regional carrier that operates flights from smaller airports, providing an alternative to larger airports like Philadelphia International Airport. This development brings several benefits to the state and its residents by offering direct flights from Delaware to various destinations, saving travelers time and potential hassles.
There are many reasons why Delaware is a great state to purchase a home. From low property taxes to a thriving economy and rich cultural heritage, there’s something for everyone in Delaware. Whether you’re looking for a beachfront property, rural, urban or suburban community Delaware has somewhere for everyone to call home. So why not consider making the First State your new home?
Beebe Healthcare Welcomes First-Ever Family Medicine Residents
White Coat Ceremony Marks Historic Moment in Sussex County Hospital System’s 107-Year History
LEWES, Delaware – The first four resident physicians in the first town of the first state donned Beebe Healthcare white coats for the first time on July 13 as the healthcare system celebrated the start of its Family Medicine Residency program with a ceremony at the Margaret H. Rollins School of Nursing.
It was a historic moment in Beebe’s 107-year history.
“You can see the future of healthcare in Sussex County on days like this – Beebe Healthcare is growing its own physicians to serve the rapidly growing population of Sussex County,” said David A. Tam, MD, MBA, CPHE, FACHE, President & CEO, Beebe Healthcare. “Beebe is wholly invested in serving Sussex County and that means bringing more physicians to care for the people here.”
The R. Randall Rollins Center for Medical Education also welcomed its second cohort of medical students from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM). These core clinical students will be doing rotations in Family Medicine, Psychiatry, Pediatrics, General Surgery, Obstetrics, and Gynecology.
Undergraduate, graduate, and continuing medical education make up the three areas of the R. Randall Rollins Center for Medical Education at Beebe Healthcare. Thursday’s ceremony capped a multi-year journey that began in 2019.
“I’m so proud of everyone who has made this day possible here at Beebe and also the support from our community,” said Joyce Robert, MD, Founding Program Director for the Family Medicine Residency. “These resident physicians are so excited to be here and be a part of Team Beebe and the Sussex County community.”
Harrison Eckert, DO
Monica Javadian, MD
Sofia Perez Delgado, DO
Jacob Valvis, DO
Beebe’s first class of residents includes:
Harrison Eckert, DO, who is from Orefield, Pennsylvania and completed medical school at PCOM.
Monica Javadian, MD, who is from Aarhus, Denmark and Northern Virginia, and completed medical school at the American University of the Caribbean.
Sofia Perez Delgado, DO, who is from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and Tampa Bay, Florida, and also graduated from PCOM.
Jacob Valvis, DO, who is from Hockessin and Wilmington, Delaware, and graduated from PCOM.
The residency program will give these physicians a place to call home as they fulfill their educational requirements and pursue invaluable experiential learning opportunities in the clinical environment.
In tandem, it will offer tremendous benefits to the people of Sussex County who rely on Beebe for their care. Once fully staffed, the Family Medicine Residency will facilitate a minimum of 7,000 additional primary care appointments for our patients. This translates to increased access to timely care for people with a wide range of medical issues and needs.
“As a physician in this community for more than 25 years, I’m so proud to be a part of this monumental moment for Beebe Healthcare,” said Jeffrey Hawtof, MD, Director of Medical Education at Beebe Healthcare. “On average, 50 percent of medical residents choose to remain in the communities where they train, long-term. This creates a powerful system of continuity in care for those we serve, and who depend on primary care providers over the course of their lifetimes.”
Beebe Healthcare is a not-for-profit community healthcare system with a charitable mission to encourage healthy living, prevent illness and restore optimal health for the people who live in, work in and visit the communities it serves. Beebe Healthcare has three campuses: the Margaret H. Rollins Lewes Campus, which houses the medical center; the Rehoboth Health Campus; and the South Coastal Health Campus. Beebe Healthcare offers primary care as well as specialized services in the areas of cardiovascular, oncology, orthopaedics, general surgery, robotic surgery and women’s health. Beebe also offers walk-in care, lab, imaging and physical rehabilitation services at several locations throughout Sussex County, in addition to a home health program and a comprehensive community health program.
Middletown is Fortune’s #5 Best Place to Live for Families
Delaware town ranks highly in magazine’s analysis of nearly 1,900 communities across United States
Fortune has ranked Middletown, Delaware, fifth on its 2023 list of the “50 Best Places to Live for Families,” noting that “Middletown offers residents a small-town atmosphere while providing easy access to major metros.”
The magazine evaluated nearly 1,900 cities, towns, suburbs, exurbs, villages and townships with approximately 20,000 residents from all 50 of the United States on more than 200,000 unique data points across five broad categories: education, aging resources, general wellness, financial health and livability. According to the business publication, these parameters “provided a broad universe of places that offered high-quality amenities in communities with a hometown feel.”
Travel guide ranks Delaware’s largest city 10th for riverside attractions
Fodor’s has identified Wilmington, Delaware as having one of the “15 Best River Walks in the USA.” The travel guide placed the Wilmington Riverfront 10th in its survey of pedestrian-friendly river-adjacent destinations, based on attractions such as outdoor dining, open-air concerts and natural beauty.
“There may be no better way to enjoy the sunshine of a warm day than a stroll or bike ride along the riverside,” says the Fodor’s article. “Whether exploring the natural scenery, stepping into one of the dozens of local shops dotting a boardwalk or riverfront park or indulging in a cocktail and trying some freshly made cuisine at a waterside eatery. These are some of the best and most famous United States, from the San Antonio Riverwalk to the Chicago Riverwalk.”
The Wilmington Riverfront, which runs along the Christina River, offers locals and out-of-towners activities such as shopping, art attractions and outdoor dining. Its entry on the Fodor’s list recommends visitors “Visit the Constitution Yards Beer Garden, which is open seasonally, and offers a changing rotation of craft beers and outdoor games like cornhole, axe throwing and live music on the weekend. Stop by Mexigrill and tequila bar Taco Grande, which overlooks the riverwalk with outdoor seating, serving delicious margaritas and made-to-order guacamole. Next, enjoy a craft beverage at the local brewery, Iron Hill Brewery, and finish off the day with some friendly competition at the Riverwalk Mini Golf. Book a stay at The Westin Wilmington, a short walk from the river with great water views.”
The full list of “15 Best River Walks in the USA” is as follows:
Ohio River Trail – Cincinnati, Ohio
Waterfront Park – Louisville, Kentucky
The San Antonio River Walk – San Antonio, Texas
The Chicago Riverwalk – Chicago, Illinois
The Detroit RiverWalk – Detroit, Michigan
The Tampa Riverwalk – Tampa Bay, Florida
Breckenridge’s Riverwalk – Breckenridge, Colorado
Reno’s Riverwalk District – Reno, Nevada
The Tennessee Riverwalk – Chattanooga, Tennessee
The Riverfront Wilmington – Wilmington, Delaware
Greenville’s Riverwalk – Greenville, South Carolina
The Potomac River Waterfront – Alexandria, Virginia
The Napa Riverfront – Napa, California
Providence’s Waterplace Park and Riverwalk – Providence, Rhode Island
Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park – Portand, Oregon
