PHOTOS
Carolina Core Housing Summit
LANDMARK STUDY HIGHLIGHTS URGENT HOUSING NEED ACROSS INCOME LEVELS AT CAROLINA CORE HOUSING SUMMIT
On Sept. 27, the Carolina Core Housing Summit revealed the findings of an extensive housing study covering all 21 counties within the Carolina Core region, spanning from the Cape Fear region to areas of the Triangle and into the foothills.
NC REALTORS®, in collaboration with Bowen National Research, conducted surveys involving thousands of individuals and employers and analyzed data from hundreds of thousands of housing units across the region.
Key findings of the report highlight a significant portion of residents facing housing cost burdens.
Housing affordability is an ongoing challenge for many of the region’s renter and owner households.
The region has an insufficient inventory of available-for-sale housing to meet existing and projected housing needs, particularly products priced under $200,000.
Feedback provided by employers in the Carolina Core region states that the majority have had difficulty attracting employees due to the area’s housing issues, while a notable share of respondents indicated that these issues have also presented barriers to employee retention.
Consideration should be given to local zoning and land use policies and if they support current and projected housing needs of each area.
According to the report’s author and president of Bowen National Research, Patrick Bowen, “The Carolina Core Region has experienced and is expected to experience significant population and household growth for the foreseeable future. While such growth brings challenges, in terms of availability and affordability of housing, it also brings numerous opportunities for residential development and economic investment. The key now will be how the region, and more importantly, individual communities and counties prioritize and support
The Carolina Core—a 150+ mile swath of central North Carolina anchored by Greensboro, Winston-Salem, High Point and Fayetteville—has emerged as the state’s next economic engine, propelled by billions of dollars of recent investment from innovative companies from around the world.
housing efforts moving forward. The regional housing needs assessment will help communities make data-informed decisions as they address their housing needs.”
The goal of the Carolina Core Housing Summit is to present this data and unite key decision makers around building solutions, based on important takeaways:
Housing solutions are needed across all income levels
Coalition capacity is needed at the local level to bring all voices together
The challenge is urgent, but solutions are achievable
“The goal of this summit is twofold. One, to bring much-needed attention to this critical issue of housing access and affordability in communities spanning our
The goal of this summit…is to bring muchneeded attention to this critical issue of housing access and affordability in communities spanning our state...”
— John McPherson, NC REALTORS 2025 President
state,” said John McPherson, NC REALTORS 2025 President, in a press release. “Two, and equally as important, is to bring solution-oriented conversation and recommendations based on the findings of this comprehensive report that local communities, business leaders and elected officials can take back home and implement.”
The summit convened policymakers, employers and community leaders, aiming to drive the development of affordable housing solutions. The newly released study equips stakeholders with critical data to inform actionable strategies for addressing the region's housing challenges.
The Carolina Core Housing Summit is a joint initiative of NC REALTORS®, the Piedmont Triad Regional Partnership, NC Carolina Core and 11 Local REALTOR® Associations.
PHOTO BY NC CAROLINA CORE
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EDITOR'S NOTE
Coming together for western Carolina
Iwant to start off this editor’s note by wishing our entire community a heartfelt thank you for the compassion I have seen so far for those affected by Hurricane Helene in the western Carolina region.
I found out about the truly devastating effects of the storm this past Friday when I was scrolling on Facebook of all things and saw a photo of my hometown Boone, NC underwater.
I immediately contacted my family in the area, and while we are so blessed to be able to report that everyone was dry and safe (although without power, internet or water) unfortunately, not everyone can say the same.
On Monday, Sept. 30 I woke up to no less than six emails in my inbox asking for me to help the Journal get the word out about multiple outreach operations that were being organized. That evening I was on a Zoom call with local business owners, nonprofit leaders and more organizing an article on the various donation spots and volunteer requests which, at the time of this issue’s printing, volunteers with the donations should be ready to head out on Friday, Oct. 4.
While I am incredibly thankful
to our local organizations for their help, given the time tables and when this issue will be released, I’d like to give a spotlight to organizations based in the affected areas:
CORNERSTONE SUMMIT CHURCH lead by Pastor Reggie Hunt is located in Boone and is currently collecting donations and providing food, clothing, water, diapers and more for #MissionBoone. If anyone would like to donate or knows anyone looking to volunteer in the area they can contact Donations Coordinator: April Wilkinson (828) 9647126 and Volunteer Coordinator: Sarah Danner (704) 575-7068. Learn more at www.cornerstonesummit.org/hurricane-relief
APPALACHIAN STATE UNIVERSITY'S CAMPUS is also being utilized by nonprofit organizations in coordination with WATAUGA COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES:
Samaritan’s Purse: Tree work, debris cleanup, roof tarping and mud outs. Sign up at spvolunteer.org.
Appalachian Medical Reserve Corps: Coordinating volunteers
with state and national emergency response teams.
Down Home NC is accepting volunteers daily to conduct door-to-door community outreach in various counties across Western NC. Visit Down Home NC’s Facebook and Instagram pages for volunteer opportunities.
MONETARY DONATIONS
CAN ALSO BE SENT TO:
App State Disaster Relief Recovery Fund (support impacted students, faculty and staff)
Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation (small business and community assistance)boonechamber.com/foundation
North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund: nc.gov/donate
As you enjoy this issue, please take a moment to be thankful that most of our areas remain safe.
Happy reading!
PHOTO PULLED FROM THE BOONE KING STREET RESORTCAMS
Morning shot of downtown King Street in Boone, NC on Sept. 27.
Let’s celebrate!
COLDWELL BANKER ADVANTAGE OF FAYETTEVILLE HOLDS CELEBRATION TO COMMEMORATE 50 YEARS IN BUSINESS
Coldwell Banker Advantage (CBA) in Fayetteville, a company long recognized for its pioneering spirit, vision and innovation, is celebrating 50 years of serving real estate clients in southeastern North Carolina.
To highlight this golden anniversary, CBA hosted a gala on Sept. 12, 2024. Realtors from across the company gathered at the Carolina Barn at McCormick farms for drinks, dinner and to hear from leadership about how the business has held the Number 1 market share in the region since 1995.
“As we see this golden anniversary, we need to reflect on what the word ‘golden’ signifies. Gold is known for its purity, its strength and its value. Much like the message our company has weathered challenges, and it [is now] stronger and more resilient. Just as gold shines bright, even under pressure, so to has our company stood the test of time. Over the past 50 years we’ve built a legacy of trust, quality and excellence,” shared Lisa Geddie, president of the Sandhills Division.
Leadership of all levels were in attendance and stepped up to voice their pride in the company and the fantastic people who work there every day. Speakers included: original CBA Founder Murray Duggins, Owner Ralph Huff and Coldwell Banker Seacoast Advantage Owner Tim Milam. President and CEO of Anywhere Franchise Brands Liz Gehringer was also in attendance.
“Every single person gets a hug, or a greeting and a familiar feeling, and yet, this company is the number one company in the entire country. And I think it is just remarkable that you can keep your charm and your grace and your genuine nature and yet be so incredibly successful in business,” shared Gehringer. “And I think it stems from the incredible examples of the leadership team, the examples that Ralph and Linda, the entire team set in the local community and all of you being this incredible face of giving back. You get what you give, and you exemplify that. So I feel incredibly proud to be associated with you, and I thank you deeply for all of the work you do with Coldwell Banker.”
The Fayetteville office has been
To highlight this golden anniversary, CBA hosted a gala on Sept. 12, 2024. Realtors from across the company gathered at the Carolina Barn at McCormick farms for drinks, dinner and to hear from leadership.
Number 1 in North America six times within the Coldwell Banker franchise system.
Coldwell Banker Advantage operates two offices in Fayetteville, on Raeford Road and Yadkin Road, near Fort Liberty. Additional regional offices include Western Harnett County (Cameron), Sanford and Southern Pines/Pinehurst.
The company has a rich history which has been shaped by real estate trailblazers. Founded in 1974 as United Realty by developer Murray Duggins, the company has been managed since 1981 by Ralph Huff, who bought the business in 1990.
“When I bought Coldwell Banker, they had 3.5% market share, and by 1990 it had 10% market share and it was number 1 in the market with 1,000 transactions,” recalled
Huff while sharing a full history of the company. “But today, Coldwell Banker has 15% [market share]... That’s the difference between doing the things that we do and growing, and staying up with the market and always being on the cutting edge [versus] sitting back and doing nothing.”
Huff and Suzanne Pennink merged in 2005.The Coldwell Banker Advantage franchise has grown and is thriving under various owners and leadership, from the coast to the Triangle to the mountains of North Carolina, as well as parts of South Carolina and Virginia.
“We were able to see our potential. We had to do some hit and miss here and there,” recalled Owner and CBA Broker Suzanne Pennink. “We have wonderful training, and we try
to think of everything we can do within reason to make your lives as easy as possible because selling real estate is not for the weak hearted. And I think I have to say to all of you, thank you so much for being the professionals that you are. You make it so much fun to be in the office with you and to see our success.”
Ralph Huff, Tim Milam and Gary Rabon are the core partners in Coldwell Banker Seacoast Advantage, which has 60 offices, 2,000 agents and 24,000 transactions totaling $7 billion in sales annually – those phenomenal numbers make it the largest Coldwell Banker franchise nationally.
“I always tell people we’ve been under one company for the last three years. We’ve done as many as 27,000 transactions. But we all put our pants on one leg at a time. We're not any better than anybody else in the other company, we just talk about what we do and look forward to what we’re doing,” shared Coldwell Banker Seacoast Advantage CEO Tim Milam. “The number one thing that is easy for us to attract other good real estate agents and other good managers and owners and partners is the fact that we have the best people. I do believe in my heart that we have the very best people in the business, and I'm very proud of that.”
“We’ve grown into an industry leader, thanks to the dedication of each and every one of you, our journey has been paved with hard work, but also with moments of brilliance where the company has truly shined. While we honor the past, we also look forward to the next 50 years and as gold symbolizes wealth and success, I am confident that our future will be brighter. We will continue to innovate and grow, building on this strong foundation. As we celebrate with this golden anniversary, I am filled with gratitude, not only for this incredible milestone, but for the people who have helped to make it all possible,” concluded Geddie.
GRAPHIC PROVIDED BY COLDWELL BANKER ADVANTAGE
From DREAM, page 1
include a full line of pedicure chairs, custom built nail station surfaces and a welcoming lobby and reception area, the space is almost complete.
The building’s new look is all the vision of Eva Pi, who has more than a decade of experience as a nail technician.
“
I want to show the young people around here; I came to the United States, and I was a single mom. I brought my son here and I didn’t know English, I didn’t have credit, no money or anything, but I had my dream.”
— Eva Pi, Owner, Eva's Nail Bar
“I did a booth rental for seven years, so that was a small business for myself and before, I was manager in a nail shop and that’s how I know what I need to buy,” shared Eva. “From the tables to everything, I went online and researched and had it custom made. I told people my ideas and they helped me.”
The Pis first bought the building on July 1, 2022 and began construction a little over six months ago.
According to her website, Eva’s Nail
Bar will be a full service salon “where beauty meets precision in a cozy, clean environment.” Offered services will include pedicures, nail enhancements, massages, lash and brow services, waxing services and even kid services for ages two to 10 years old.
An immigrant and single mother from Vietnam, Eva spent time in California and New Jersey before coming to Fayetteville in 2014 where she would later meet her husband Jerry. Now celebrating 10 years in the area, she shared that it was through the friendships she gained from attending church at Village Baptist Church and one very friendly customer that helped her become stronger and believe in herself.
“I really like Fayetteville because
of the people. I made this wonderful friend, her name is Leigh O’ Conner, she’d come to do her nails, and she’s very friendly and she’d take me to church. And before I’d say ‘No, I don’t have time for myself or my family, I don’t know English, what would I go to church for?’ But she spent time with me, she’d read the Bible one by one, she’d teach me and after I believed, ‘Ok the people here will be open,’” shared Eva. “I have so many friends who have helped me. I’m blessed for that, they teach me not just about language, but they teach me about life.”
Plans are in place to move into the building on Oct. 14-15 to review the space before holding a grand opening planned for mid October. Eva shared that she is grateful for her customers who support her and inspire her.
“I want the decorations to look good before the grand opening. I have almost 200 customers, so when my customers come they’ll tell me their ideas. I really love Fayetteville because we work with teamwork, they will help me. They’ll give me more ideas and we want the grand opening to look perfect,” said Eva.
The Pis have been married for five years and have worked together to make the business happen. Jerry, who is a retired Veteran following 30 years of service, handles the engineering and contracting portion of renovations, and Eva brings her expertise.
“I just think it's pretty brave of her to start something like this. I wouldn’t know where to start. Her
customers have become her friends,” shared Jerry. “I just think it's amazing. I’ve lived in the United States way longer than she has, 40 some years, I wasn't born here. But for her, to migrate over here, as a woman too, and have the desire and want to do this and actually go through with it, I think that's pretty powerful. Not everybody that comes to America is able to do something like that.”
“I want to show the young people around here; I came to the United States, and I was a single mom. I brought my son here and I didn’t know English, I didn’t have credit, no money or anything, but I had my dream. So that’s what I’d like to say to the people that if you dream a big dream and you work on it, if I can do it, you can do it,” shared Eva.
Eva’s Nail Salon will be open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Sunday’s from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Fore more information, go online to www.evasnailbarnc.com and find her on Facebook at Eva’s Nail Bar for the latest updates and announcements.
PHOTO BY GFBJ
The 5,500 square-foot building was previously a carwash and had to be completely renovated. Featuring a bright, elegant interior, everything in the shop has been custom made to fit Eva’s vision.
PHOTO BY GFBJ
Husband and wife team Jerry (left) and Eva Pi (right) are working together to make this dream a reality. Jerry has handled the contracting portion of the business and Eva brings her industry expertise.
ACHIEVERS
Longleaf Pine REALTORS® welcomes new CEO
Longleaf Pine REALTORS® is proud to announce the appointment of ANNE RENDLE as its new Chief Executive Officer. With more than 25 years of experience as the CEO for local and state REALTOR® associations, Rendle brings knowledge, leadership and dedication to the role.
A graduate of Bates College with a B.A. in English, Rendle has a strong foundation in writing and communications, reflecting her commitment to professionalism and excellence in all aspects of association work. She has a clear vision for advancing the association’s goals and building on its legacy of service, advocacy, community service and professional development.
“We are thrilled to welcome Anne as our new CEO,” said Longleaf Pine REALTORS® President Megan Gerber in a press release. “Her extensive experience and passion for association management make her the perfect leader to help Longleaf Pine REALTORS® continue to thrive. We are confident that under her guidance, we will strengthen our ability to further our mission and provide additional support to our members and the communities they serve.”
Rendle’s leadership will continue the association's commitment to providing the highest level of service to members, fostering professionalism in the real estate industry and ensuring the success of its mission.
Mid Carolina Workforce Development Board announces new leadership
The Mid Carolina Workforce Development Board is thrilled to announce the appointment of Xavier DeBrough as Chairman and Candace Howell as Vice Chair of the Mid Carolina Workforce Development Board.
XAVIER DEBROUGH: CHAIRMAN
Xavier DeBrough is an accomplished leader with a strong background in operations and management and a dedicated contributor to various community initiatives. With over 10 years of problem-solving experience, he consistently brings a positive, solution-focused mindset to every challenge. As the Executive Director of DeBrough & Co., Xavier excels in strategic planning, compli-
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ance and building meaningful relationships. His military service as a Drill Sergeant demonstrates his exceptional leadership abilities and keen attention to detail.
Beyond his professional achievements, Xavier is deeply committed to serving and developing the community with a focus on excellence. DeBrough is an active member of the Fayetteville Cumberland Reentry Council, Genesis Christian School, The Money Box Academy and the Fayetteville NEXT Advisory Commission.
CANDACE HOWELL: VICE CHAIR
Candace Howell is a Fayetteville native and proud military B-R-A-T! A graduate of mathematics from Duke University, she enjoys being a part of the heartbeat of her local community as owner and operator of the Candace Howell State Farm Insurance Agency. With more than 10 brave corporate relocations under her belt, Howell is happy to be back home and serving in Fayetteville.
Resilience is most definitely within Howell’s core with over 37 years of experience in the insurance industry, Howell is a veteran of creating and managing business impact as her teams excel in working with executives, strategic thinking leaders and businesses across all industries to assist them in their legacy building efforts locally and internationally.
Howell is seasoned in small business consulting, mergers and acquisitions, strategic planning and organizational development, administrative and financial operations, marketing and business automation planning.
The appointments of Xavier DeBrough and Candace Howell mark a significant milestone for the Mid-Carolina Workforce Development Board. With their leadership, the organization anticipates a future of robust economic development and enhanced workforce opportunities.
South River EMC donates $9,030 grant to Fire Chiefs Association
South River Electric Membership Corporation (EMC) presented a check for $9,030 to the Cumberland County Fire Chiefs Association to support Emergency Services and its fire prevention education initiatives.
South River EMC Vice President of Member Services and Public Relations Catherine O’Dell made the donation to Fire Chiefs Association President Freddy Johnson, Sr., at the Cumberland County Emergency Operations Center Sept. 23. The grant is part of South River EMC’s Operation Round Up program.
“We are incredibly grateful for the generous grant provided to the Cumberland County Fire Chiefs Association’s Fire & Life Safety Committee,” said Johnson in a press release. “This support allows us to provide essential fire safety materials to elementary school students, particularly those in grades K-2, focusing on home fire safety. We thank South River EMC for helping us educate and protect the future of our community.”
“South River EMC’s generous contribution to the Fire Chiefs Association not only enhances our ability to educate young students about fire safety but also strengthens our commitment to protecting the lives of our community members,” said Cumberland County
Fire Marshal Kevin Lowther in a press release. “Together, we are building a safer future for Cumberland County.”
Mark Adams of Fayetteville, NC wins Foresters Financial Scholarship
Foresters Financial™ (Foresters), a leading global life insurer committed to empowering its members and their families to do more of the good they want to do, has announced that MARK ADAMS of Fayetteville, NC is the recipient of a $2,500 scholarship and is eligible to reapply each year for up to four years.
The Foresters Competitive Scholarship is awarded annually to 355 students in the US and Canada. They are granted to those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in their contributions towards charitable activities within their communities and have consistently excelled academically.
The scholarships can be awarded for up to four years for students pursuing undergraduate study at accredited two or four-year colleges/ universities or vocational/technical schools.
Adams has chosen to attend Winston-Salem State University in the Fall. He earned his scholarship due to academic achievement and importantly, time spent volunteering with the Boy Scouts of America and Elizabeth Cashwell Elementary School.
“It’s an honor to celebrate Mark for his outstanding contributions to his community. Mark embodies the values that are the heart of Foresters, and we are thrilled to recognize his dedication and achievements,” said Foresters Financial President and CEO Matt Berman in a press release.
DeBrough
Howell
Rendle
PHOTO PROVIDED BY CUMBERLAND COUNTY L to R: Fort Liberty Assistant Chief David Volk, Cumberland County Emergency Services Director Gene Booth, Fort Liberty Fire Inspector Stacey Palmiter, Cumberland County Fire Marshal Kevin Lowther, President of Cumberland County Fire Chiefs Association Freddy Johnson, Fayetteville Fire Department Fire Captain Stephen Shakeshaft and Fort Liberty Fire Chief Scott McGuire. Adams
HOSPITALITY
Honoring legacy & sacrifice
THE U.S. ARMY AIRBORNE AND SPECIAL OPERATIONS MUSEUM STANDS AS A REMINDER OF THE AREA’S MILITARY SERVICE AND HISTORY
Established in August 2000, the U.S. Army Airborne and Special Operations Museum (ASOM) stands as a premier institution dedicated to preserving, exhibiting and celebrating the rich heritage of the U.S. Army Airborne and Special Operations Forces. From its inception, the museum has effectively captured the culture and history of these elite forces, tracing their evolution from 1940 to the present day and beyond. Over the past two decades, ASOM has become a cornerstone in honoring the bravery and sacrifices of our nation’s soldiers.
The museum offers a unique perspective and journey through over 80 years of Army Airborne and Special Operations history. Visitors are invited to explore interactive displays, participate in educational experiences and engage in public programs that vividly illustrate the critical role these forces have played in defending and building our nation. From the harrowing streets and beaches of war-torn Normandy to the intense combat zones of Iraq and Afghanistan, the museum’s exhibits provide a powerful narrative of heroism and sacrifice.
One of the museum’s standout features is its ability to transport visitors to pivotal moments in military history. Imagine walking through a reconstructed scene of Normandy, witnessing a glider delivering a jeep into battle. Feel the intensity as you hear the roar of helicopters and see the brave troops deploying from them during the Vietnam War. Experience the dramatic rescue of Kurt Muse in Panama by observing soldiers and an MH-6 “Little Bird” in action. These immersive displays offer a glimpse into the courageous efforts of troops defending freedom around the globe.
The Airborne and Special Operations Museum chronicles the valor of soldiers from the inception of the Parachute Test Platoon to the ongoing Global War on Terrorism. It preserves the extraordinary feats performed by the United States Army’s Airborne and Special Operations Forces, showcasing their unique ability as “fighting soldiers from the sky” as they jump into bat-
tle. The museum serves as a proud testament to the men and women who have served, and continue to serve, in these prestigious units.
However, the museum’s ability to continue its vital mission is under threat due to significant losses in major funding, as the Cumberland County Commissioners voted in June to stop county funding for the ASOM Foundation, which supports the museum.
The ASOM Foundation’s funding challenges jeopardize its capacity to support public programs, educational opportunities and exhibit and grounds maintenance. Without the necessary financial support, the museum may be forced to scale back
its operations, not only dimming the light on crucial chapters in military history but impacting the community’s economy and educational opportunities.
This is where the community’s support becomes crucial. By contributing to the ASOM Foundation, individuals can help preserve the museum’s ability to inspire, engage and educate future generations about the rich history of the Army’s Airborne and Special Operations Forces. Community support will ensure that the stories of bravery and sacrifice continue to be told and remembered.
A prominent event that underscores the museum’s commitment to honoring service members is the annual Field of Honor, organized by the ASOM Foundation and the Cool Spring Downtown District. This event features a living display of flags, each representing a tribute to current and past service members, as well as those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation’s security and freedom. From Sept. 9 to Nov. 11, 2024, these flags will be proudly displayed on the Parade
Field of the U.S. Army ASOM. Additionally, the museum hosted a temporary display of the 9/11 Memorial Flag in its lobby from Sept. 10 - Sept. 29. The handmade flag, composed of nearly 3,000 small American flags, represents the victims of the 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and Flight 93. The flag also includes 86 national flags to honor the victims’ countries of origin and flags of first responder organizations involved in rescue and recovery efforts. Created by the organization “United We Stand, United We Sew,” the flag debuted at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in 2002 and has since traveled across the country, serving as a poignant symbol of national unity and resilience.
The U.S. Army ASOM stands as a vital institution dedicated to preserving the legacy of those who have served in some of the most demanding and heroic roles in military history. Through your support, the museum can continue to educate, inspire and honor the past, ensuring that the stories of bravery and sacrifice are never forgotten.
Those wanting to provide financial support can make cash donations at boxes inside the museum at 100 Bragg Boulevard; donate online at ASOMF.org; or provide endowments through the Cumberland Community Foundation.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY ASOM Saddle used by Captain Mark Nutsch during the mission. This exhibit debuted in April of 2023 and was curated entirely by high school students featuring artifacts from Task Force DAGGER, America's military response to the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
PHOTO BY GFBJ
The ASOM’s annual Field of Honor, brought to you by the ASOM and the Cool Spring Downtown District, is on display through Nov. 11. Each flag comes with its own story and displays a tag identifying both the person who sponsored the flag and the flag honoree.
SAFE. SOUND. SECURE. SINCE 1839.
Now, more than ever, trust is the foundation of any successful relationship. As a leader in banking since 1839, our commitment to building personal relationships with our customers and communities is deeply embedded in who we are. With local bankers you know and trust, it’s no wonder businesses and individuals throughout North Carolina continue to choose United Bank.
Major expansions
ROOMS TO GO TO EXPAND DISTRIBUTION CENTER IN HARNETT COUNTY
Furniture retailer Rooms To Go is in the process of expanding its roughly 1,450,000 square foot distribution center in Harnett County. The current Rooms To Go facility includes a distribution center of approximately 1,390,000 square feet and a retail showroom and outlet center of approximately 65,000 square feet. In need of more warehouse space to continue serving the company’s customers throughout the Carolinas and the northeast United States, Rooms To Go will add approximately 336,000 square feet to its current distribution center facility in the City of Dunn, increasing its total number of employees to about 425 in its expanded 1,790,000 square foot facility.
“The Rooms To Go facility in Dunn has been a success thanks to its location on Interstate 95 and the dedicated employees who work there," said Vice President of Rooms To Go Peter Weitzner in a press release. “We feel fortunate to have found great people in the area
to staff our facility. Both Harnett County and the City of Dunn have been fantastic partners for the past several years. They have facilitated easy development of the facility and also helped us work with the local community to find a great work-
force. We are glad we selected Dunn for this facility several years ago, and we believe the Rooms To Go facility has become a valued corporate citizen in the area.”
Rooms To Go’s expansion in Harnett County is a strong reflection of our area's growth and potential.”
— Brent Trout Manager, Harnett County “
Rooms To Go first announced plans for its facility just off of Interstate 95 in Harnett County back in 2015. The Distribution Center, situated off Exit 75 at Jonesboro Road, currently spans approximately 1,450,000 square feet on 120 acres (before the current expansion). The project was made possible in part by a performance-based grant from the One North Carolina Fund of up to $200,000.
Other key partners that helped bring Rooms To Go to Harnett County in 2015 include: the North Carolina Department of Commerce, North Carolina Department of Transportation, the North Carolina Community College System, Harnett County Government, the City of Dunn and the North Carolina Rural Economic Development Center.
“Rooms To Go’s expansion in
Harnett County is a strong reflection of our area's growth and potential,” said Harnett County Manager Brent Trout in a press release. “The company’s decision to grow their operations in Dunn can be credited to the unique advantages that Harnett County can offer businesses looking to establish or expand their operations.”
The expansion of the Rooms To Go Distribution Center in Dunn is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2025.
“Rooms To Go has been a valued part of the Dunn community for nearly a decade, and we are thrilled about their commitment to growth through this expansion," said William Elmore, Mayor of the City of Dunn, in a press release.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY HARNETT COUNTY Aerial shot of the current Rooms To Go roughly 1,450,000 square foot distribution center in Harnett County.
Lights, camera, films!
ANNUAL FESTIVAL RETURNS WITH MISSION TO ENGAGE AND INSPIRE DIVERSE COMMUNITIES BY SUPPORTING FILMS THAT MAKE A POSITIVE DIFFERENCE
Organizers of the Indigo Moon Film Festival (IMFF) are setting the stage for the stars of national and international independent cinema to shine their brightest.
The festival, which is a staple of the fall for cinephiles from all over North Carolina and beyond, got its start in 2016 and spans over three days. This year’s event will start Oct. 11 and show more than 80 films from filmmakers from all over the country at different venues in downtown Fayetteville.
Attendees will also get a chance to meet filmmakers and discuss their showings. The festival venues are SkyView on Hay at 121 Hay St., Rainbow Room at 223 Hay St., The Capitol Encore Academy at 126 Hay St., the CAMEO Art House Theater and The LOGE at 225 Hay St.
Jan Johnson and Pat Wright, co-founders and co-runners of the IMFF, said the films shown at the festival are primarily independent projects fueled by passion and hard work.
“It's not the big movie houses that are backed by millions of dollars,” Johnson said. “These are films backed by hard-earned sponsors and sometimes they're funded by filmmakers’ own pocketbooks.”
Wright said often filmmakers are not looking to monetize their movies.
“These are things that are a passion project for them,” Wright noted.
Johnson said the experience at the IMFF differs from that offered at a multiplex or even a boutique movie theater due to the presence of the filmmakers.
“Almost every screening you've got filmmakers who will be here to talk about the film you just watched,” Johnson said. “It's really interesting, insightful and entertaining to hear from them. We've got great folks interviewing them, and it's just a really good time to have people from out of town enjoying Fayetteville and bringing their art to our area.”
For Wright and Johnson, IMFF is a way to shine a spotlight on what they believe is an underrepresented art in Fayetteville. As filmmakers themselves, they say they know what
from all over
it is like to be a part of the independent cinema circuit and the struggles and joys that come with that.
“That's what makes this festival a little bit different from others,”
Wright said. “We know what we appreciated when we went to a film festival, when we were having a film
shown and how it made us feel. We just want to provide that same thrill of seeing your film on the big screen and hearing the audience laugh at just the right time. There's just nothing like it.”
The main event is the Friday showing of “Luther: Never Too Much” a documentary following the life of the late Luther Vandross. The documentary is directed by veteran documentarian Dawn Porter, who has made biographical documentaries of other historical figures such as Bobby Kennedy, Vernon Jordan and John Lewis. Porter has collaborated with Oprah and Prince Harry.
“Then everyone after the film will go down to SkyView for the opening night reception,” Wright said. “Where we'll have light bites and music of the era, and we will have all the filmmakers there to meet and greet.”
Saturday will be “wall-to-wall films.”
“Three venues, all day, starting at 10 a.m. ending at about midnight,” Wright said. “We'll be showing all
kinds of films; short films, short film blocks filled with different shorts, We’ll show some feature length documentaries and narratives. We have animation student films, first time filmmakers, North Carolina filmmakers, local filmmakers, documentary shorts and narrative shorts.”
There will also be a “dinner and a movie (director)” event at SkyView at 6 p.m. Saturday, where attendees will be treated to a conversation with director Chris Everette, a North Carolina director from Durham. Everette presented his movie “Wilmington on Fire” at a prior iteration of IMFF. “A heavily armed mob launches a violent attack against African Americans on Nov. 10, 1898, in Wilmington,” reads the synopsis for the film.
The entire lineup for the festival can be found here: www.indigomoonfilmfest. com/full-schedule-of-films.
Johnson and Wright said they have fallen in love with local films and that they want to make sure the IMFF showcases local talent.
“As we started doing our own film festival, we fell in love with the North Carolina films,” Johnson said. “We made additional categories for those, and we were surprised by the number of local films from Fayetteville and Cumberland County. We have very talented filmmakers whose films deserve to be shown.”
This made them, overtime, expand the categories for submissions for IMFF.
“We try to give more categories to allow more filmmakers to participate and be recognized,” Wright said. “We get the list of films that have been submitted and we have a jury who watch every film and rank it according to plot, story, acting, lighting and a bunch of different categories.”
Wright said filmmakers end up loving Fayetteville by the end of their pilgrimage to IMFF.
“We have got so many filmmakers. More than ever before are going to be here,” Wright said. “They love Fayetteville. The reception they get in Fayetteville with the Indigo Moon Film Fest is really one of the few where they are treated practically like royalty.”
PHOTO PULLED FROM THE INDIGO MOON FILM FEST FACEBOOK PAGE
The 9th Annual Indigo Moon Film Festival will take place Oct. 11-13 in historic downtown Fayetteville. The event promises more than 80 films from filmmakers
the country.
PHOTO PULLED FROM THE INDIGO MOON FILM FEST FACEBOOK PAGE
IMFF Founders Pat Wright (left) & Jan Johnson (right) stand with a $5,000 grant award from South River EMC.
Nighttime Could Be the Right Time to Save.
With PWC’s Super Off-Peak Rate
Optional Whole Business rate features substantially lower rates for electricity used during Super Off-Peak Hours, 9:00 p.m. – 5:00 a.m. daily, all year long. Business customers who sign up for this option pay a slightly higher basic facility charge and Peak rate, while benefiting from much lower rates during the nighttime hours. Your business may be able to lower your electric bills with this rate plan. Some of the ways you can save money with this plan include doing things like:
• Charging fleet-managed EVs, or providing managed EV charging for multi business/residential units, during Super-Off Peak hours
• Performing power-hungry tasks or running large machinery/ non-essential equipment between 9:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. For more information, visit: FayPWC.com and click on the TOU Rates for Business in the business section of the website. Or call 910-483-1382 to speak with a PWC representative and learn how our new Whole Business electric rate may benefit your business
Super Off-Peak Hours
Super Off-Peak Hours For PWC Business Customers
Storied home starts new chapter
HISTORIC FAYETTEVILLE HOME GETS RENEWED PURPOSE AS LOCAL BUSINESS OWNERS PREPARE TO SET UP SHOP IN THE OLD HOUSE
The historic Taylor-Utley House in Fayetteville will soon be the new home for two local businesses. Casey and Carl Benander, owners of Haymount Homes LLC, are preparing to open a storefront. Additionally, Casey is opening her own physical therapy studio on the property as well.
It’s fitting that Casey and her husband Carl will be moving into this historic space, as they’re entrepreneurial efforts began with the renovation of old homes.
“My husband and I started the home business in 2017. At the time, there were a lot of older homes being torn down in Haymount, and that bothered us. We knew we couldn’t save every home, but we decided that we could try to get some and renovate them versus replacing them…We both grew up in historic homes, so we saw the value of what they were,” shared Casey.
They began renovating these old homes to serve as rental homes, both long and short term, as they saw the need for them due to the transitory nature of the military community. The Benander family are military as well, with Carl serving actively.
The duo also began to offer styling services to help people achieve their visions for how their home would look and feel.
Casey expanded her talents further following her daughter’s interest in selling baked goods at the local farmers market.
“At that time, I was like, ‘I need to have something to do every Saturday, if I’m going to be at the farmers market.’ So that progressed to starting to do more home products,” explained Casey.
Casey then found her niche in candle making.
“With the candles, as a healthcare practitioner, I was frustrated by the quality of the candles that were available at the price points that they were available at, and so I kind of deep dove into how to make a candle that was legitimately okay for people to burn, sustainable for the planet, high functioning from a standpoint of like it performs well, but was also super affordable,” explained Casey.
As demand for her services and
products grew, so did questions about a permanent home for the business.
“People kept asking us, ‘Where’s your store?’And I was like, we don’t have one,” shared Casey. But the answer to that question has now changed as they continue work on renovations to their new storefront.
“We were excited to find the Taylor-Utley home…it kind of married all [our interests], especially because it also had a small building in the back, and I had been considering having my own physical therapy, dry needling studio for a long time. So we kind of saw it as a perfect opportunity to save a house, create a home store, and for me to be able to launch my clinic all in one place,” stated Casey.
The physical therapy/dry needling studio, Haymount Body Mechanic, is set to open first. Casey hopes to open this month, October 2024, once all of the finishing touches have been added.
Casey has nearly 20 years of experience as a physical therapist. She has gained much of that experience at Cape Fear Orthopedics, and she confirmed she intends to continue
working at Cape Fear Orthopedics even as she opens this new studio.
“What’s making our little studio different is that we are going to be a direct payment studio. We’re not taking insurance, and the reason we’re not is because we know we can provide a faster and better client experience by doing direct payment,” explained Casey.
A referral will not be required to be seen at Haymount Body Mechanic.
In terms of staffing, Casey shared that they currently plan to have two physical therapists, a physical therapist assistant, a dietitian and a Pilates and dance instructor.
The storefront will be called Haymount Homes - The Market and is expected to open sometime in 2025. The store will feature the candles and the home products they currently sell along with vintage art, different decor pieces and used furniture.
Additionally, Casey shared that they plan to transform the upstairs of the store to be a space for candle production, shipping and inventory. Then further down the line they hope to utilize some of the space for small events and as a photo studio.
“What we’re planning to do with the initial launch is to basically host what we’re calling market weekends, where like once every six weeks we are open, and we are almost like an event, at least initially, and then as the store grows...as it develops, we will consider opening more frequently,” explained Casey.
This will also allow Casey time to curate a new collection of vintage items and redesign the spread between each market.
Across all of her disciplines, Casey is attentive to the needs of clients and helps them to lead a more comfortable and happy life — whether that’s helping people take the necessary steps to perform at their highest level through physical therapy or helping people settle into a home that they can feel is their own no matter how long or short a time they may be staying in it.
To find out more about Haymount Homes LLC visit www.haymounthomesllc.com.
For more information on Haymount Body Mechanic visit www.haymountbodymechanic.com.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY CASEY BENANDER
The nearly 200-year-old historic Taylor-Utley House in Fayetteville is being renovated by local business owners Casey and Carl Benander to serve as the storefront for their company Haymount Homes LLC and Casey’s new physical therapy and dry needling studio, Haymount Body Mechanic.
BIZ LEADS
Reader’s Guide
BizLeads is a collection of information gathered from greater Fayetteville courthouses, state government offices and information websites. The listings are intended to help the business community find new customers and stay on top of happenings with current customers, vendors and competitors.
New Corporations lists firms from the Greater Fayetteville Business Journal region that were recently incorporated in the State of North Carolina.
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
Core Golf LLC
7711 S. Raeford Rd Ste 102 #159
Fayetteville Agent: Jonathan Clevenger
AST Express Solutions LLC 516 Mayview St. Fayetteville Agent: Rebecca Brock
First Fruits Behavioral Health Services LLC 9065 Turnbull Road
Fayetteville Agent: Tonya Yvette Pone
Worker Bee Commercial Cleaning LLC
429 Person St. Suite 1-A
Fayetteville Agent: BossLady Corporate Services LLC
FC WB LLC
3311 Turtle Point Dr Fayetteville Agent: Franklin S. Clark IV
MacArthur Miller Jr
The Qompound 1763 Wilmington Hwy
Fayetteville Agent: Hughie
Eugene Fewell Jr
Beach Bumz
Trina The Traveling Stylist LLC 2504 Forest Lodge Drive
Fayetteville Agent: Trina Jerald
Jamyla Tax Services llc 3807 Constance road Hope Mills Agent: Marieanelle Soier
Z-Y Juice & Coffee Corp.
5554 Yadkin Rd
Fayetteville Agent: Yahya S Alsaidi
Dunamis Christian Counseling LLC 15 North Dakota Court Spring Lake Agent: Althea Jackson
Pure Supps Inc LLC 4386 Black Bridge Rd Parkton Agent: Michael Frederick Kamaka
Miller Family Investments LLC 5821 Gentleman Hope Mills Agent: John
Ann Peppers
L. B. Corporation LLC
9447 Buddy Cir
Fayetteville Agent: Paul D Lovett
I Clean 4 U LLC
Beauty Bar and Spa LLC 2779 Rivercliff Rd.
Fayetteville Agent: Ryley
Maurine Nikiema
DT Management Services LLC 2603 Cherry Plum Dr
Fayetteville Agent: Torrey Lynne Locklear
KWLM HOLDINGS LLC
6380 Lake Trail Dr
Fayetteville Agent: TERESA LORENE KIBBE
Geranium Geospatial Solutions (GGS) L.L.C 727 BERWICK DRIVE
Fayetteville Agent: Austin Erran Joseph
M Squared Customs LLC 5544 Bear Creek Cir
Fayetteville Agent: James Milo Martin Jr
EZ TAX SERVICES LLC 6421 Tarbert Ave
Fayetteville Agent: Elizabeth
LLC 6012 Mezzanine Ct
Hope Mills
Agent: Vidal A Thomas
Floribunda Holdings LLC 7143 Honeydip Dr
126 Dysart Place
Fayetteville Agent: Jonathan Larry Grizzard
LegacyForge Contracting LLC 831 Log Cabin Rd
Fayetteville Monisa Dobbins
USA TIRE SALES and STORAGE LLC 3696 Gillespie St
Fayetteville Agent: Rebecca Payne
NoMak Inc. 2314 Gillespie St
Fayetteville Agent: David Finol
Youth on a Mission Outreach (YOMO) 7210 Mariners Landing Drive
Fayetteville Agent: NEAL ANTHONY HARRIS
We Have Lanes Logistics LLC 3011 Town Center Dr Ste 130 Unit 202
Fayetteville Agent: Lindsey Henderson VEE TEE EXPRESS
Fayetteville Agent: Abundant Living Consulting Corporation LLC
Richards International LLC
100 Hay Street Ste 503
Fayetteville Agent: Abundant
Parkton Agent: Troy Dale Townsend
Pine Needle
Homes LLC
3052 N Kilchattan Dr
Fayetteville Agent: Muhammad A Kafi
Summit Recycling Inc 804 Glen Reilly Dr
Fayetteville
Agent: Javon Tyrik Smaw
Oppa Nail LLC 713 Emeline Ave
Fayetteville Agent: An Thu H Chu
3E COUNSELING AND CONSULTANT PLLC
9027 Grouse Run Lane
Fayetteville Agent: Alicia Moore
Rvolve LLC
3020 S Kilchattan Dr
Fayetteville Agent: Nariyah Nixon
JLO OPERATIONS LLC
100 Hay Street Ste 503
through Veteran Improvement Services (MCDVIS)
3513 Sids Mill Road
Fayetteville Agent: Alisa
Veronica Murchison
Living Consulting Corporation LLC
C&J24 Logistics LLC
281 SHADS FORD BLVD
Fayetteville Agent: Corey K Butler
Miracles Barber training institution LLC
402 Santa Fe Dr Suite #1
Fayetteville Agent: Derwin Jones
Become your own president LLC
8521 Independence Drive
Hope Mills Agent: Shantavia Nisson Odom
Ivy Weight Loss & Wellness PLLC 1540 Purdue Drive Suite 200
Fayetteville Agent: Cynthia Wilson Richards
Natural lash babe L.L.C 7559 Carrollburg Dr
Fayetteville Agent: Jada Leche Jordan
Maisha Community Development
3928 BUS 17 LLC
IGLESIA CRISTIANA VISION DE
DIOS INC 1037 71ST SCHOOL RD
Fayetteville Agent: JOAQUIN
VALENCIA CRUZ
Seven5 FaY LLC 311 Dunn Rd
Fayetteville Agent: Tanari A Smith
Veterans Of America Roastery LLC 1412 Friar Rock Circle
Hope Mills Agent: Stephen Shimizu Esquer Jr
Coco Monroe Closet LLC 223 Person St Ste B
Fayetteville Agent: Aasha Elise Holland
Rockbridge Consultants LLC 2828 Flowering Bradford Way
Fayetteville Agent: Michael Holland
River Roots Farm LLC 2744 River Rd
Fayetteville Agent: Alan Stewart Nazarchyk
205 WESTWOOD SHOPPING CENTER Fayetteville Agent: OMAR Y ALSAIDI Jab Enterprise LLC 2129 Biltmore Drive
Fayetteville Agent: Jeffrey Barnes
On Point Plumbing & Construction LLC
3475 Nesbit rd
Fayetteville Agent: Christopher Lamont Johnson
Jeff Deaver Home Improvements and More LLC 5328 Brower Trail
Hope Mills Agent: Jeffrey Kurt Deaver
The Sunshine Cowgirls LLC 2535 Cameron Woods Lane
Fayetteville Agent: Tiffany Drain
Triple J's Kettle Corn LLC
342 Stacyweaver Dr
Fayetteville Agent: Robert J Hodge
Madel Store LLC 809 Durwood Dr
Fayetteville Agent: Delphine Nkengafac
Angela's Family Care Services
L.L.C 25 Conatser Dr
Parkton Agent: Ray Guinyard
Open Project Builders LLC 5204 Roy C. Stallings Jr. Street
Hope Mills
Agent: Jorge E Vargas
Bethage Inc.
2549 Sourwood Drive
Fayetteville Agent: Linda T Davis
Fully Loaded Xpress LLC
7414 Burnett Road
Godwin Agent: Antoinette Young
LRC Homes LLC
5938 Laguna Dr
Fayetteville Agent: Megan Wells
TRAVEL NURSE
SAFESTAYS LLC
3813 Madison Ave
Fayetteville Agent: shari michele port
New Song School of Music LLC 1612 LaGuardia Dr
Hope Mills Agent: Carissa Lee Ospina
Heart 2 Hands Home Care LLC
2603 Cherry
Plum Dr Fayetteville Agent: Torrey Locklear
Urban Fresh Cleaning LLC 1810 Wendover Drive
Fayetteville Agent: Jamilah Goode
Freddy's Sound & Lights LLC 1647 Winnabow Dr
Fayetteville Agent: Wilfredo perez-burgos
Twisted Best Buds Exotics Inc
429 Person St. Suite 1-A
Fayetteville Agent: BossLady Corporate Services LLC
Blue Moon Pools LLC
429 Person St. Suite 1-A
Fayetteville Agent: BossLady Corporate Services LLC
WEvolve Inc. 240 Highgrove Dr
Spring Lake Agent: Jayden Martinez
Wisdom Well Coffee Shop LLC 211 Skyland Plz
Spring Lake Agent: Melissa A Creson
P2H Solutions LLC 923 Orchard
Drive Fayetteville Agent: Brian K. Perry
True Vine Seminary 5301 Morganton Rd. Fayetteville Agent: Ernest West Jones
Floral Oasis LLC 312 Hay St Fayetteville Agent: Savannah Lauren Pace Nelson
Pineapple Express Transportation LLC 1602 CAMELOT DR Fayetteville
Agent: Tanya Michelle Oxendine
Roaming Grill LLC
957 Horne Farm Rd
Stedman Agent: Jennifer D Horne
DUNN AND SON’S KENNELS LLC
5946 Timkin Dr Hope Mills Agent: Jonathan Dunn
The Bryant Legacy Group LLC
100 Hay Street Ste 503
Fayetteville Agent: Abundant Living Consulting Corporation LLC
My Grocery Lady LLC
5731 Mcdougal Dr
Fayetteville Agent: Shara C Kibler
Brookdale
Property Management LLC 128 Bow Street #D
Fayetteville Agent: Daniel Francis DiFilippo
McGeachy Industires LLC
DBA MCgeachy Transports 8554 Godwin Falcon Rd
Godwin Agent: Quontavia McGeachy
Organically Inspired Satisfying
Lifestyle LLC
100 Hay Street Ste 704 #1156
Fayetteville Agent: Joseph Lee
Makeovers by Morgan LLC 3140 Legion Rd
Hope Mills Agent: Morgan Leigh Rich
IGNITE FAMILY SERVICES 3109 BRADDOCK DRIVE
Fayetteville Agent: LATRICIA DONALDSON
East Watts Properties LLC
3947 Dunn Rd Eastover Agent: Elnaz R Watts
Sweet Leaf Map Inc
429 Person St. Suite 1-A
Fayetteville Agent: BossLady Corporate Services LLC
Designers Showcase Remodeling LLC 1316 Carolee Ct
Fayetteville Agent: Jeffrey N/A Cannata
Eccentric Therapy & Consulting PLLC
1203 John Mc-
Millan Road
Hope Mills
Agent: Amy Elizabeth Cox
Blender & Baker LLC
129 Hunter Circle
Fayetteville Agent: Rosetta Arintha Thompson
Konrad Chapman LLC
4134 Village Rd
Fayetteville Agent: Konrad Chapman
Clean It LLC
466 Baywood Rd
Fayetteville Agent: Donnell Harden
Residential Real Estate
