Greater Fayetteville Business Journal - August 23, 2024 issue
ince 2015 Veterans in the Fayetteville area have had their lives positively impacted through the efforts of one organization and the specially outfitted Jeep that has become a symbol of hope, caring and belonging for the homeless Veteran community. Off-Road Outreach (ORO), founded by Stacey Buckner in 2015, is a nonprofit organization which has significantly impacted the lives of homeless Veterans. From its inception until now, ORO has organically grown into something amazing.
JUNE UNEMPLOYMENT
Cumberland Hoke Harnett Sampson Robeson Bladen Moore
The Greater Fayetteville Business Journal is published twice a month throughout Fayetteville and the Cumberland County region. News related to the region’s business sector is posted daily at bizfayetteville.com.
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As an entrepreneur and business owner, the term nonprofit has always been a category to try and avoid. When starting out in business, the owner/ entrepreneur takes great risk, many times using their own capital to stand up the business. All this is done to generate a profit, so of course, I never really understood much about how the nonprofit sector worked.
Aside from churches and private schools, I had little knowledge about the value that this sector brings to countless individuals, businesses and communities.
In this issue, we will focus our attention on some nonprofits who are passionate about helping others and making a positive impact in the community. You will also notice on page nine an announcement about our next Power Breakfast on Sept. 24. We will be talking with four
amazing leaders in the arts who also represent some amazing nonprofit organizations. These leaders and their teams are impacting our area in phenomenal ways, and their efforts pay big dividends that end up bringing value to every business in our community. I hope you will join us as we hear from them.
Get your tickets today at www.FayettevillePowerBreakfast.com
Another upcoming event you can play a significant role in (for free, mind you), is our Annual Health Care Heroes Awards which will be held on Nov. 7 (see page two for more information). Our health care community does so much for all of us. You, as a reader of Greater Fayetteville Business Journal, can participate free of charge by nominating a deserving health care professional for one of the
nine different categories we will be honoring on Nov. 7.
Go to www.bizfayetteville.com and make your nominations today by clicking the “Health Care Hero Nominee Form” tab!
At this stage in my life and career, I know more about the nonprofit world than when I first started in business, but I have learned so much just in the last few years about the value that these organizations provide. I look forward to continuing my education in this area and learning how Greater Fayetteville Business Journal can and will be more involved!
God bless you and yours!
MARTY V. CAYTON is the publisher of the Greater Fayetteville Business Journal. 910-240-9697, Ext 101 • martyc@bizfayetteville.com
>> By Thomas Manning
The pursuit of healthfulness
THE HARNETT HEALTH FOUNDATION CONTINUES ITS MISSION FOR A HEALTHIER HARNETT COUNTY; NEW CANCER CENTER UPDATES, PHILANTHROPY AND MORE
Ever dedicated to the health of its community, the Harnett Health Foundation is a 501(c) (3) organization that seeks to inspire awareness, engagement and investment in local healthcare. Its origins date back to 1937, when Nathan M. Johnson Sr. made an anonymous donation for the development of a local health center, the Dunn Hospital, that would provide quality care for people regardless of race, creed, color or ability to pay. Johnson Sr. continued to make donations to expand the hospital, ultimately allowing his gifts to be made public in 1956 when the Dunn Hospital was renamed the Betsy Johnson Memorial Hospital in memory of his mother.
In 1996, the Betsy Johnson Memorial Hospital transitioned into a private not-for-profit organization under an independent board of trustees, becoming the Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital. This led to the formation of the Harnett Health System in 2005, born from the Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital in conjunction with Harnett County Commissioners and WakeMed, allowing for expanded access to healthcare throughout Harnett County. In 2021, Harnett Health became a part of the Cape Fear Valley Health family. By providing essential health services to patients in Harnett County, the Foundation continues to fill the gap between government funding and private insurance programs.
Harnett Health Foundation Chair and Executive Vice President of AdaptHealth Brad Heath comes from an entrepreneurial family, with experience in both the restaurant business and the home medical equipment business. This has in-
group that included Harnett Health President Cory Hess, Cape Fear Valley Health CEO Michael Nagowski and Harnett Health Foundation Chair Emeritus Cornelia T. Stewart. Emmett Aldredge III is also a former member of
stilled his passion for service in the community and his work with the Harnett Health Foundation. Speaking to the needs in the county that are being met by the Foundation, Heath said, “This county has grown exponentially over the years and we have watched health systems in rural areas be contracted and grow smaller as they became part of much larger health systems somewhere else. And we’ve been very fortunate that Cape Fear has invested in this county and invested in, not just the people that are here, but the growth that’s coming.”
Heath also mentioned that even as healthcare becomes more available and efficient from a general standpoint, that does not always translate to rural areas. However, they aim to satisfy those needs through the Foundation and their work with Cape
Fear Valley Health.
“They’re investing in bringing doctors and recruiting folks and we want to make sure we’re participating and doing that, because we want folks to continue to raise their kids here for generations,” Heath shared, speaking on the future of healthcare in Harnett County.
The Harnett Health Foundation is also the main fundraiser for the Harnett Cancer Center, which is expected to open in late 2024. This facility is under construction in Lillington.
Harnett Health Foundation Executive Director Scott Childers noted the significance of this for cancer patients in the area.
“It’s going to be a game-changer for Harnett Health and Harnett County. Currently, there’s not any access to radiation therapy for cancer in the county, so patients are having to go up north to the Raleigh area or go over to Fayetteville to Cape Fear Valley Health over there. [Now], we’ll have a comprehensive, complete cancer care facility in Lillington,” said Childers.
The Cancer Center and Medical Arts complex will cover 70,000 square feet and provide additional medical office space and operating rooms, as well as CT scanners and infusion bases.
The board of directors for the Harnett Health Foundation has committed over $100,000 for the
Cancer Center. “We’ve never had a major campaign like this to raise these kinds of dollars. But I feel very good about where we’re going,” said Childers. “The growth that’s taking place in the Harnett County area is going to really demand health care services like it’s never had before.”
Looking ahead to the future progress of the Harnett Health Foundation and the Cancer Center, Heath said, “It really means a lot as far as folks wanting to be near where good healthcare is. And it means a lot for the folks that are able to attract positions and attract folks that are going to provide other healthcare when they have facilities like that nearby. I think it speaks to the overall potential. Not just what we’re going to provide today, but what we’re going to provide in 10 years, 15 years, and that investment is something that, really, we can’t overstate.”
Another upcoming fundraising event for the Harnett Health Foundation is the Taking a Swing at Cancer Golf Tournament, to be held on Thursday, Sept. 26 at the Keith Hills Golf Club. There is also a brick campaign to raise money for the Cancer Center, in which donors can honor and memorialize those who have been affected by cancer. Other generous donors have also contributed significant funds towards the construction of the new cancer center. In early August, it was announced that donors Arc3 Gases of Dunn and the Aldredge family had committed $250,000 joining with other notable donors including P.K. Vyas, M.D., founder of Eastern Carolina Medical Center in Benson, and the Robert P. Holding Foundation who, all combined, have contributed $1 million towards the Foundation’s $5 million fundraising goal.
To learn more about the Harnett Health Foundation and their mission, find them online at:
www.myharnetthealth.org/aboutfoundation
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY HARNETT HEALTH FOUNDATION Brothers Emmett Aldredge III and Christopher Aldredge recently toured the facility with a small
the Harnett Health Foundation Board.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY HARNETT HEALTH FOUNDATION Digital rendering of the future Harnett Health Cancer Center.
From BEYOND, page 1
ORO is an all-volunteer organization meaning every penny they receive goes directly back to the programs. ORO provides essential services such as mobile showers, food, medical aid and companionship directly to Veterans living on the streets and in encampments around Fayetteville, North Carolina.
Buckner’s journey into Veteran advocacy began after she survived a stroke and traumatic brain injury, which nearly killed her. Surviving that experience profoundly influenced her commitment to help others facing adversity.
“The support I received after my injury from my community was awesome!” Buckner said. “Without that support, I could easily have ended up on the street myself.”
Buckner credits her faith with sustaining her on her road to recovery from her TBI and also with motivating her to do something every day to help others.
“After my TBI, I realized I have a purpose… a reason to be here. I couldn’t just exist anymore after surviving that. I had to use my hands to lift others; to make a difference to even one person is a gift and miracle you can’t deny,” Buckner said.
After seeing a group of homeless Vets on her way to work one day and recognizing the gaps in services for homeless Veterans, she equipped her Jeep to deliver necessities and offer support directly to those in need. This hands-on approach has earned her widespread recognition, including being named a CNN Hero, earning the NC Governor’s Medallion Award, being a recipient of the Tom Miller Advocacy Award and more.
ORO’s Veggies for Vets Garden program supplies homeless, at-risk and low-income Veterans with fresh home grown fruits and vegetables. The land is worked and tended to by volunteers and Veterans who want to give back to their brothers and sisters facing food scarcity.
Buckner’s work goes beyond immediate aid; ORO also addresses longterm needs by partnering with local organizations to provide comprehensive support, including job training and rehabilitation services. ORO’s efforts have reached thousands of Veterans, demonstrating a commitment to making a sustainable difference in their lives.
For businesses and individuals who want to know how they can help, Buckner has the following advice:
“Volunteer! Every business with more than 10 employees should have a volunteer corps. I’d ask you to donate your time before you donate your money. Every person can volunteer their time. We are all sharing this trip together and if we can make a difference to even one other person on our way, how can we not be willing?”
ORO consists of four basic programs which impact issues facing Veterans: Homelessness, Veggies for Vets, Suicide Prevention and Peer Support. Buckner and ORO not only directly serve homeless Veterans and at-risk Vets, but act as advocates and guides for them, leading them through the bureaucratic mazes to get them access to assistance available to them.
“Once we connect one of our Vets with services, we follow up with the service provider and the Veterans themselves. They know we are holding them accountable; they know we will be following up,” Buckner said.
Buckner and ORO are pursuing projects including residential treatment facility partnerships, where they are restoring two large industrial greenhouses to support Vets at the MyRover-Reese Fellowship Home.
A project to create a “Tiny Home” community ran into significant issues with zoning and other problems in Cumberland County, but in true Stacey Buckner fashion, she didn’t let adversity stop her. Those tiny homes are now going to the Lumbee Tribal Council in Robeson County, where the homes will be used to house Lumbee Tribe Veterans.
Her attitude and excitement to serve are infectious. She recently left the VA and started a job with Veterans Services of the Carolinas, a position she says aligns her career with her passion for serving at-risk Veterans.
Like a successful coach, she motivates and recruits constantly. She said a single success story is worth it all. She admits we are never going to be without homelessness, “...but I’m still going to do the work. Everyone thinks it’s someone else’s job to do something. Let me tell you something, you’re part of the solution. You can change the world.”
Her final message? “What you do with your time today is important because you are exchanging a day of your life for it. I’ve come to realize that a life lived to help others is the only one that matters. This is my highest and best use as a human.”
To volunteer or learn more about ORO’s mission, visit their website: www.offroadoutreach.com/about
PHOTO PROVIDED BY OFF-ROAD OUTREACH
The Off-Road Outreach Jeep serves as a way to enrich the lives of homeless Veterans and others by providing meals, mobile hot showers, a small mobile laundry service for clean clothes and kindness.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY OFF-ROAD OUTREACH ORO offers suicide prevention services for veterans that includes QPR training, mental health first aid training, suicide prevention symposiums and peer support services in the field.
ACHIEVERS
FSU’s Dr. Pamela Baldwin appointed as the inaugural vice chancellor
for strategic enrollment and student success
For more than 20 years, PAMELA BALDWIN, Ed.D, has enhanced educational institutions by focusing on student success and innovation in the classroom. As the inaugural Vice Chancellor for Strategic Enrollment and Student Success at Fayetteville State University, she is building a clearer path for prospective students to enroll and graduate. Her appointment was effective July 1.
“As the University expands and prioritizes enrollment, retention and graduation rates, this new role was created to chart a path forward,” said Chancellor Darrell T. Allison in a press release. “Dr. Baldwin is an experienced leader who works collaboratively with others to set strategic goals and attain them. I am confident that she will be instrumental in advancing FSU’s aggressive goals of remaining as one of the most affordable institutions in the nation and achieving an even greater rate of success of students obtaining their degree in four years or less.”
The role aligns with FSU’s and the UNC System’s strategic goals, prioritizing not only enrolling students but also supporting them through the academic continuum.
As the new VC for Strategic Enrollment and Student Success Baldwin oversees enrollment management and student success.
“This work includes creating processes in the Admissions Office and the Registrar’s Office to recruit and enroll students, seamlessly moving them to the advising center where they can register for the right courses and establish graduation plans,” Baldwin said in a press release.
She also leads student success strategy, where FSU’s Career Services – paid internships and workforce pipeline – will play a more critical role in the overall academic experience for students.
“The most important part of this role is being a great collaborator across our campus to implement initiatives that improve outcomes and remove barriers to provide a better experience and better pathways for all students,” Baldwin added in a press release.
MG Robert D. Harter
What are you and your peers achieving? Have you reached a new goal? Have you acquired another business? Maybe your business has a new hire you would like to highlight.
Greater Fayetteville Business Journal wants to hear from you and your business to shine a spotlight on your accomplishments.
To nominate someone for GFBJ’s Achievers section, email editor@bizfayetteville.com with the subject line “Achiever.”
confirmed as the next
Chief of Army Reserve and Commanding General, U.S. Army Reserve
The U.S. Army announced on Aug. 1 that the U.S. Senate has confirmed MAJ. GEN. ROBERT D. HARTER for promotion to lieutenant general and assignment in the dual role of Chief of Army Reserve and Commanding General, U.S. Army Reserve Command.
Harter previously served as the Commanding General, 81st Readiness Division, after serving as the Deputy Chief of Army Reserve, Office of the Chief of Army Reserve, Washington, D.C.
Harter, originally from Alaska but now a resident of Virginia, was commissioned in the Field Artillery Corps in 1988, after graduating from Virginia Tech with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business and Communications. He also holds a Masters in National Security Strategy from the National War College.
His prior General Officer assignments include the Assistant Deputy Commanding General for Reserve Affairs and Chief of Staff for United States Army Materiel Command in Alabama.
His active-duty assignments include the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Bad Hersfeld, Germany, the 101st Corps Support Group, Fort Campbell Kentucky and the US Army Munition Center and School, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama.
DistiNCtly Fayetteville welcomes new hires
DistiNCtly Fayetteville is pleased to announce the expansion of its team with the addition of three new hires: SIERRA BAXTER as sports devel-
opment manager, DIANA POTTS as director of administration and human resources and PERNELL EDWARDS as sports sales manager. This strategic move aims to enhance the organization’s mission to promote Cumberland County as a distinct destination for tourism and events.
As the sports development manager for Fayetteville’s Sports Commission, Baxter brings a comprehensive background in sports management and community engagement. She joins DistiNCtly Fayetteville from Coastal Carolina University, where she held several pivotal roles within the athletic department. Most recently, she served as the cheerleading coach and associate athletic director for student-athlete enhancement, where she was responsible for programming, development and organization for the Student Athletic Advisory Committee.
As the Director of Administration and Human Resources, Potts will oversee DistiNCtly Fayetteville's administration operations and human resources functions to ensure efficiency and compliance across the organization. She most recently served as the Chief Operations Manager at Fortuna BMC. Her dedication to service is highlighted by her role as a North Carolina delegate to the Small Business Advisory Board for the White House and as an advisor during significant environmental crises. Pott’s achievements include the Congressional Medal of Distinction and recognition as one of North Carolina's Top 50 Women
Leaders. Before joining DistiNCtly Fayetteville, Edwards served as the Sports Director for RDU Sports, successfully leading the organization's sports leagues and marketing initiatives to increase participation in recreational activities within the community. As an experienced recreational sports professional, Edwards is well-versed in project management, community outreach programs and planning large-scale events.
"We are thrilled to welcome Sierra, Diana and Pernell to the DistiNCtly Fayetteville team and look forward to the fresh perspectives and experiences they bring to the organization," said Devin Heath, CEO of DistiNCtly Fayetteville, in a press release. "Expanding our team with such talented individuals reflects our commitment to growth and will help us achieve our mission to strengthen Fayetteville as a premier destination for tourism and events."
Grant-Murray Real Estate welcomes new broker to Fayetteville team
Grant-Murray Real Estate is excited to welcome their newest broker to their team. COREY CROEGAERT started with the real estate firm in mid-August.
Before joining the real estate industry, Corey spent a decade with Speedway and 7-Eleven, progressing from District Manager to Market Leader. He managed operations across several states, including NC, SC, GA, FL and VA, overseeing over 1,000 employees and multiple multi-million dollar businesses. That extensive experience honed his skills in leadership, strategic planning and operational excellence.
Corey played Division 1 soccer at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where he demonstrated leadership as the team captain in his senior year. His commitment to both academics and athletics earned him a spot on the academic All-American team and led his team to a Southern Conference Championship.
Corey is dedicated to delivering results and fostering strong relationships in his real estate career. His proven track record and determination to excel make him a rising star in the commercial real estate field.
Baldwin
Baxter
Harter
Croegaert
Potts
Edwards
Curtain up on Act 2
Cape Fear Regional Theatre (CFRT) is preparing for a groundbreaking later this year to kick off “Act 2” of their expansion plan. The renovated space will include a new main entrance on Highland Ave., two dedicated classrooms, an expanded scene shop, added areas for the community to congregate, a rooftop event space and additional parking.
One of the theatre’s biggest goals with this expansion is to make the space more accessible. Many of the new design features were carefully thought out to best serve CFRT’s specific audience. CFRT’s Artistic Director Mary Kate Burke explained that the reason for changing the main entrance to Highland Ave. is for increased safety of patrons.
“We just keep growing, which is awesome. Last year, we impacted over 60,000 people, and 22,000 of them were youth. And then there’s also a lot of mobility challenged or elderly patrons. So outside the building, there’s a drop off zone so that we can drop off the children from school buses and bring them safely into the building. They don’t have to cross a million busy streets,” explained Burke.
They’re also going to add an elevator and ramps to make the space more wheelchair accessible. Another feature to accommodate wheelchair users is demountable seats in the auditorium.
CFRT’s Managing Director Ella Wrenn shared that “7.2% of Cumberland County is Veteran disabled versus 1.2% of the US population.” With this in mind, prioritization of accessibility is a necessity. “That’s a highlight throughout the building, getting more accessible,” added Wrenn.
As their attendance continues to grow it is crucial that they make changes to their space to grow with it. Over the past six years, CFRT reported that their summer camps have grown by 45%, studio classes by 89% and mainstage attendance increased 20%.
“Right now, we turn away almost 25 to 30% of the kids who want to enroll in our youth programming, because we don’t have enough space…So the primary thought
Act 1 of CFRT’s expansion has already been completed. It included upgrading the interior of the theatre with wider seats, deeper rows, a new HVAC system and a custom sound system designed by a TONY-Award winning sound designer.
behind this expansion is, with more space, we can serve more people,” added Burke.
They’re also looking to better accommodate parents and guardians who bring their children to the theatre’s youth programming with the redesign of their lobby. Now there will be space for the adults to congregate and pass the time while the children are busy with the programming.
Another renovation they are excited about is the expansion of their scene shop. This will increase their capacity and function for internal building projects such as set design and construction. >> By
Stephanie Meador
CAPE FEAR REGIONAL THEATRE PREPARES TO BREAK GROUND ON THE NEXT PHASE OF THEIR EXPANSION
ed that as part of phase one… the work we just did on the inside of the theatre itself, all of that stays, the new seats, the cup holders, we did it, people love it, and we’re very invested, and we were deeply grateful for all the support we had for that. And that is a self contained unit. So that’s staying exactly as it is, and then we’re building out everything around it” shared Wrenn.
Now it’s time for the rest of the theater to be brought up to the same level of excellence as the newly renovated auditorium and stage.
“We’re trying to do things that set the institution up for success for the next 50 years, and we’re trying to create more opportunities for us to serve the community,” shared Burke.
This expansion marks a great investment in CFRT’s longevity for serving the community.
“It takes a lot of space and people to put on a show, and it’s a lot of real estate that only earns revenue for two hours a day. Four weeks off, six weeks on, four weeks off… it’s a kind of complicated business model to figure out how to manage, but this institution has done it beautifully. The average nonprofit is 65% contributed income and 35% earned revenue. Cape Fear Regional Theatre bucks that trend. Last season, we were 67% earned and 33% contributed. So what that means is we know how to do things excellently at a price that people can afford and want to join us for. So we’re just going to continue to add spaces that allow us to do what we do excellently,” shared Burke.
With the support of the community, CFRT celebrated the completion of the first phase of their expansion in January of 2021 when they officially opened their newly renovated auditorium.
“The theatre proper, like the auditorium and the stage, that’s contained, and we renovat-
Details about the groundbreaking for Act 2 are soon to come. In the meantime, CFRT’s staff is excited to invite community members to one more show at their main space before they move off-site for the duration of construction. Rehearsals have begun for Footloose: The Musical, which will begin previews Sept. 5. Once that show closes, the theatre will temporarily relocate to 1707 Owen Dr. where they’ll transform the ballroom of the old Holiday Inn Fayetteville-Bordeaux into a 240-seat theater.
CFRT is incredibly grateful to the community for the support they have offered thus far. As they enter into this next phase, they continue to need support to see this monumental project through to completion.
For more information about CFRT’s Capital Campaign visit www.cfrt.org/capital-campaign.
While you’re on the site, grab your tickets for Footloose so you can experience the last show on their mainstage before it’s lights up on Act 2!
PHOTO PROVIDED BY CAPE FEAR REGIONAL THEATRE
PHOTO PROVIDED BY CAPE FEAR REGIONAL THEATRE
This architectural rendering displays the upgraded facility. With a rooftop event space, two new classrooms, an expanded scene shop and more, the renovated building will allow CFRT to serve even more people.
New rules of operation
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® PRACTICE CHANGE
IMPLEMENTED ON AUG. 17
On Aug. 17, 2024, practice changes following the National Association of Realtors® 's Proposed Settlement Agreement, designed to resolve claims brought on behalf of home sellers related to broker commissions, were officially implemented across the country.
REALTOR® MLSs (those owned exclusively by one or more REALTOR® Associations) were required to implement the changes by Aug. 17 to remain in compliance with NAR policy.
Under the settlement, the following practice changes are now in effect:
Offers of compensation will be prohibited on Multiple Listing Services (MLSs). Offers of compensation will continue to be an option consumers can pursue off-MLS through
negotiation and consultation with real estate professionals.
Agents working with a buyer must enter into a written buyer agreement before the buyer can tour a home. The practice changes do not
require an agency agreement or dictate any type of relationship.
Additionally, Aug. 17 marked the first date members of the “Settlement Class”— home sellers who sold a home on an MLS anywhere
in the U.S. during the eligible date ranges and paid a commission to a real estate brokerage in connection with the sale of the home—can be informed about NAR's proposed settlement of the Sitzer-Burnett case, through a process called class notice. Notice will be distributed by mail and electronically. Class notice informs class members of their rights, options and deadlines to exercise those rights and options under the proposed settlement.
Visit www.nar.realtor/the-facts for the latest updates on the settlement and practice changes and for additional resources to assist with implementation of the settlement terms.
Consumers with questions about the class notice or eligibility processes should reference the settlement website or call the settlement administrator at 888-995-0207 for further guidance.
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
A Taste of Jamaica LLC
5846 Ramsey Street
Fayetteville Agent: Saverna Williams
Rojas Landscaping Plus LLC 1346 Worstead Dr
Fayetteville Agent: Angel Rojas
8OMIFY LLC
2918 Peacock St
Hope Mills Agent: Shaka Robinson
Bulldawg Ventures LLC
3426 Sugar Cane Circle
Fayetteville Agent: Michael Bryan Moore
Select RV Service
L.L.C. 1833 Notre Dame Pl
Fayetteville Agent: Gregory Raymond Koonce
Patriot Realty Group LLC
2929 EASTOVER NORTH DR
Fayetteville Agent: Anthony P Ashton
CAYNEAL
Logistics LLC
7670 Raeford Rd
Fayetteville Agent: Lamora Gordon
ZerimaragLLC
Eastover Agent: Jessica Erin Deshotel
VetsGame2 508 Dale Drive
Fayetteville Agent: Kamisha Delarosa
B. Mercer Septic Tank Service LLC
5010 Tabor Church Road
Fayetteville Agent: Buckie F. Mercer Jr.
Consulting with Pride LLC 1488 Jim Johnson Rd
Fayetteville Agent: Ivan L Pride
Pinchos Deluxe LLC
829 Varsity Dr
Fayetteville Agent: Hector Javier Gonzalez
DP1 LLC 669 Bartons Landing Place Apt. 2
Fayetteville Agent: Starsky Norman
APA Global Investing LLC 1127 Capeharbor Court Apt 37
ACH and Sons
Discount LLC
21 Poplar Street
Parkton Agent: Antwain Cornelius Hentz
NEW ENVY NAILS
SPA INC
2132 Skibo Rd Unit 108
5641 Duncan St
Hope Mills
Agent: Leandro M Aguilar Gonzalez
Stowe Home Improvements LLC
100 Hay Street Ste 503
Fayetteville Agent: Abundant Living Consulting Corporation LLC
JC Investment Properties Inc. 636 Blawell Circle
Stedman Agent: Jason Oliver Alphin Sr
Ultima Start
Distribution LLC 1635 TYSOE DR
Fayetteville Agent: Tynese Malone
Iron Grip Logistics LLC 3834 Marksbury Dr. Apt. 305
Fayetteville Agent: Marvin Kirk Williams
Asset Haven LLC
5075 Morganton Rd STE 10C #1301
Fayetteville Agent: Alfonzo
Devone Whittington Jr
4156 NC-210
Fayetteville Agent: Joseph Harry Toney
Castelucci Construction Inc. 100 Hay Street Ste 503
Fayetteville Agent: Abundant Living Consulting Corporation LLC
HEM Transportation LLC 5347 Cubby Cir Hope Mills Agent: Herber Alexander Marroquin
Amplify Faith & Love International Ministries 1537 Stackhouse Drive
Fayetteville Agent: Charay Dupree Smith EdD
Lv Vacation Rentals LLC 569 lambert at Fayetteville Agent: Stephan Johnson
Inferno Grill Inc
2061 Skibo Rd Suite 18
Fayetteville Agent: Lindeng Lan
JXL TRANSPORTATION LLC
1917 Poplar Dr Fayetteville Agent: Cavier
Omar Ortiz
Premier Carwash Services Inc.
636 Blawell Cir
Stedman Agent: Jason Alphin
Vitale Rental Cars
L.L.C. 1733 Daisy Ln
Fayetteville Agent: Jonathan Dana Vitale
Amaris Enterprises LLC
5102 Hayden Ln
Fayetteville Agent: Joyce A Kinney Cornerstone Strategic Consulting LLC
5704 Pooh Ave
Stedman Agent: Curtis Anthony Walker Sun HS Warehouse of Fayetteville LLC
813 Gillespie St
Fayetteville
Agent: UBALDO
TORRES RODRIGUEZ
King Viv Entertainment LLC
842 Turkey Ridge
Fayetteville Agent: Vivian
Rodean Robert Smith
Reliance Packaging, LLC
PLASTIC EXTRUDER TO EXPAND IN MOORE COUNTY WITH $7M INVESTMENT
Reliance Packaging, LLC, a manufacturer of printed plastic packaging, will invest more than $7.4 million to expand its operations and increase its capacity in the Town of Aberdeen.
Operating in Aberdeen since 2014, Reliance Packaging extrudes plastic resin into printed heavy duty plastic bags and film for the lawn and garden market as well as many other outdoor applications.
A joint venture with Sigma Plastic Group, Reliance extrudes, prints and converts, along with developing brands and graphic designs for high-quality products to hold mulch, soil and decorative lawn rock that are sold throughout various outlets, including Home Depot, Lowe’s and Walmart, across the United States. This expansion includes building improvements and two additional multi-layer film extruders for the 180,000-square-foot manufacturing facility.
“We are excited about the opportunity to expand our manufacturing facility here in Aberdeen and create jobs in Moore County,” said Satish Sharma, President & COO of Reliance Packaging, in a press release. “The new investment will enable the use of Post Consumer Recycle as a major effort to support sustainability within our industry. Reliance Packaging already reprocesses between 10,000 to 20,000 pounds of waste plastic every day and the installation of this new technology and automation will facilitate higher quality products with an eco-friendly solution.”
This expansion will add 32 new jobs in Moore County. New positions, including extruder operators, material handlers and quality control
“
This company has been a great member of our business community, and we are ready to support them in their next phase of growth.”
—
technicians, will have varying salaries, but altogether the average annual wage is $53,000. The Moore County average is $51,824. These new jobs could potentially create an annual payroll impact of more than $1.6 million.
“We welcome the new jobs from Reliance Packaging,” said N.C. Representative Ben T. Moss, Jr. in a press release. “This company has been a great member of our business community, and we are ready to support them in their next phase of growth.”
“This will be Reliance’s third major expansion since coming to Aberdeen,” said Darryn Burich, business development director for the Moore County Economic Development Partnership, in a press release.
“Reliance started with 10 employees here in 2014 and has grown to 70. Not including the current expansion, they have already grown by more than 285% in floor space. Both are incredible accomplishments that attest to Reliance’s continued success in Aberdeen.”
A performance-based grant of $50,000 from the One North Carolina Fund will help facilitate Reliance’s expansion in North Carolina. The One NC Fund provides financial assistance to local governments to help attract economic investment
and create jobs. Companies receive no money upfront and must meet job creation and capital investment targets to qualify for payment. All One NC grants require matching participation from local governments and any award is contingent upon that condition being met.
To further support Reliance’s current expansion, the N.C. Department of Commerce also approved more than $435,600 in sales tax exemptions on machinery & equipment purchases as well as several workforce-related incentives, including customized training, valued at $82,800. Sandhills Community College will work with Reliance at the local level to develop a comprehensive training plan to meet the company’s specific workforce development requirements.
“Aberdeen is proud to be home to a large number of Moore County’s manufacturing businesses, and we are especially proud when the Town can directly support one of our local manufacturers and contribute to their continued growth and success in our community,” said Paul Sabiston, Aberdeen Town Manager, in a press release.
“Initially two other out-of-state facilities within Sigma Plastics Group were being considered for
this expansion; however, our proven track record of success and growth in Aberdeen, combined with the incentives awarded by the State of North Carolina, made it clear the expansion should take place at our facility here in Aberdeen,” added Sharma in a press release. “We greatly appreciate the support we have received from the N.C. Department of Commerce, the Economic Development Partnership of N.C., Moore County, the Town of Aberdeen, and MCEDP.”
In addition to the North Carolina Department of Commerce and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, other key partners in this project include the North Carolina General Assembly, North Carolina Community College System, Sandhills Community College, Moore County and the Town of Aberdeen.
“This announcement is yet more proof that North Carolina is the best state for business,” said Governor Cooper in a press release. “When companies like Reliance Packaging choose to expand in Moore County, it validates the strength of our manufacturing economy, workforce and our quality of life.”
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY MCEDP
L to R: Operating in Aberdeen since 2014, Reliance Packaging extrudes plastic resin into printed heavy duty plastic bags and film for the lawn and garden market as well as many other outdoor applications; This expansion includes building improvements and two additional multi-layer film extruders for the 180,000-square-foot manufacturing facility.
N.C. Representative Ben T. Moss
HOSPITALITY
Countdown to fun
CUMBERLAND COUNTY FAIR RETURNS TO CROWN COMPLEX FOR 2024
Established in the late 1860s, the Cumberland County Fair has been a staple event in the Fayetteville area for years, bringing entertainment and family fun for community members of all ages. Organized and hosted by the Crown Complex, this year the fun begins on Aug. 30 and runs through Sept. 8.
The fair provides a platform for exhibitors to demonstrate their talent, artistry and effort. North Carolina locals work hard and dedicate their time and energy to bringing the best to the platform and exhibitions, be it handmade sewing projects or livestock showing.
“I wish people knew how much work goes on behind the scenes to organize, host and run the fair. It’s a massive team effort that dozens of people spend weeks and weeks working on putting together – all with the goal of educating and entertaining our community,” said Madeleine Eversole, marketing director at the Crown Complex. “The educational aspect of the fair is one that our team takes seriously. We think it’s so meaningful for people to get a look at where their food and other products come from. It’s also a great reminder that there are many farmers in our community who raise crops or livestock. For many people who live in the more urban areas of our county, seeing farm animals in person is a new experience.”
The Cumberland County Fair never fails to recognize the efforts of the community with discounted admission rates on select days for military and first responders, Senior Nights and various deals throughout the course of the event. There will be a sensory friendly time during select hours. There are opportunities for the community to give back as well.
“One of the biggest donation opportunities is on A Day of Giving which will take place on Thursday, Sept. 5 and will benefit Second Harvest Food Bank. Attendees can bring in six non-perishable food items in exchange for one free admission ticket to the Cumberland County Fair. We would love to collect a lot of food that we can donate back to our community on the Day of Giving. It also gives the community a chance to enjoy the fair for a
games, rides, food, livestock shows and more. Entertainment scheduled for this year include Bob Bohm’s Family Entertainment, Ember Fire Arts and more acts still to be added!
highly reduced rate,” said Eversole.
The Cumberland County Fair features a host of exciting events every night. In addition to the midway with all its food, games and rides, a full roster of talents and acts will be lighting up the stage for added fun.
“We are bringing back last year’s popular show, Ember Fire Arts, who will perform two shows nightly. Bob Bohm’s Family Entertainment will also be returning with his mix
of humor, magic and variety shows. This year he will also be hosting a hula hooping contest. There will also be live music on weekends and on Labor Day. On Sundays, there will be gospel music. On nights when there isn’t a performance from a band, there will be karaoke,” said Eversole. Additions to the entertainment lineup are still being added, so there will always be something new to look forward to for attendees.
A vast array of local talent and hard work will be on display with livestock shows and arts and crafts exhibitions returning in 2024. Livestock shows will present only the best of different breeds and an array of artisanal artwork, handicrafts, produce and much more will be on display to be judged as well.
“It’s fascinating to see the talent in our community,” said Eversole. “The 4-H members who show their animals in the livestock shows raise them, care for them and do a ton of practice to show them. It’s a really huge time commitment for young people to be ready for these shows and the dedication is so impressive.”
The importance of agriculture is easy to ignore, but it's important for the community to understand how the grocery stores fill their shelves. Events like the Cumberland County Fair emphasize agricultural education while providing days of fun for everyone to enjoy.
A Fayetteville area classic, the Cumberland County Fair is not one to be skipped this year!
“There’s something about seeing a kid clutching a snow cone that’s dying their face four different colors as their eyes light up watching the fire show that makes all of the hard work, long hours and days in the heat feel worth it,” said Eversole. “I think that’s why so many of us in the events industry love it. The moment when the gates open and we get to provide people with an escape from their everyday monotony or struggles always makes an impact. Plus, I love being able to walk down the midway from my office and grab a funnel cake or turkey leg!”
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY CROWN CENTER. PHOTO CREDIT TONY WOOTEN, LRP MEDIA Thrills return to the Crown Complex with
• Unlimited access to all current and archived stories on BizFayetteville.com
• The twice-monthly Business Journal mailed to your office or home
• The annual Book on Business publication mailed to you in January
• In-depth coverage of complex issues
• Advanced notification of Business Journal events
• Assurance you know about business happenings in the Fayetteville region!
Nighttime Could Be the Right Time to Save.
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• 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
