Springfield-based Decorize Inc. posted a fiscal first-quarter profit for the first time in the company's history. The fiscal first quarter, which ended Sept. 30, historically is the company's weakest, according to a Nov. 17 news release. But Decorize's net profit for the first quarter of fiscal 2009 increased more than $390,000, compared to a net loss of $371,000 in fiscal first-quarter 2008. Gross margins were 37.2 percent, up 880 basis points from 28.4 percent a year ago. The first-quarter results follow Decorize's largest quarterly profit ever, posted in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008.
"The global Decorize team was successful over the last six months in increasing sales, improving profitability and reducing inventories," Decorize CEO Steve Crowder said in the release. "As with everyone in this industry, we are challenged by reductions in consumer spending and retail store closings. However, we have a fully engaged, focused and informed global work force, which is constantly creating small wins in this challenging business environment." Company shares (OTC: DCZI) closed Nov. 19 at 10 cents, compared to a 52-week range of 7 cents to 32 cents.
Greening Up on Tax Day
Missouri residents now have another way to reduce their home energy bills. On Nov. 19, Gov. Matt Blunt announced a new state program through the Department of Natural Resources that allows Missourians to apply for formal certification as home energy auditors. Homeowners who enlist the help of a certified home energy auditor will be able to deduct the costs of home energy audits and related recommendations from their taxes beginning in 2009. "Certified home energy audits will give Missouri families reliable guidance when it comes to energy use and waste reduction, saving money on overall energy costs as well as offering another tax break," Blunt said in a news release.
Blunt also enacted the Show-Me Green Sales Tax Holiday. Missouri is the fourth state to enact such a holiday, which exempts purchases of Energy Star appliances up to $1,500 - including washers and dryers, water heaters, trash compactors, dishwashers, conventional ovens, ranges, stoves, air conditioners, furnaces, refrigerators and freezers - from state sales tax. Missouri's 2009 holiday will run April 19-25.
Going to the Dogs
Springfield-area dog owners have a new place to let their four-legged companions roam free. The Springfield-Greene County Park Board and the Springfield Citizens Dog Park Committee were scheduled to hold a dedication ceremony Nov. 22 for the Cruse Dog Park at Loren Park, 2100 W. Catalpa St. The first phase of the park includes a six-acre off-leash park - a 1.5-acre fenced area for small dogs and 4.5 acres for larger dogs. Cruse Dog Park is also connected to the greenway trail system via a one-mile section of greenway connecting the dog park with Ewing Park to the southwest.
The park, of which the first phase cost nearly $300,000, was funded by a grant from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and donation from the Cruse Family Trust, as well as proceeds from several events. Efforts are ongoing to raise additional funds for future development, including permanent restrooms and a pavilion. More information about the park, including a list of rules and regulations, is online at www.parkboard.org.
This installment of Springfield Business Journal’s Architects & Engineers Project Report showcases 26 endeavors by area design and engineering professionals.
