Greater Fayetteville Business Journal - August 5, 2022 Issue

>> By Kate Griffin bizfayetteville.com $2.00 Index See MERAKI, page 7 Technology 3 Publisher’s Note .................................... 4 Banking + Finance ................................ 5 Achievers 8, 9 Residential Real Estate 11 Military Business 13 In The News 14 Biz Leads 18, 19 August 5, 2022 - August 18, 2022 Vol. 2, No. 5 a special magic touch to events with ornate installments and fun, colorful decorations.Foundedby Army veteran Karoll Echeverri in 2018, Meraki’s services extend above and beyond. From office parties, grand openings, baby showers and more, the agency provides artistically crafted decorations, installments, and art pieces to make a special day more memorable. An overarching theme of gratefulness and joy powered by passion shared between Echeverri and Graphic Designer Brittany Cobb Meraki Creative Agency provides dazzlingtodisplaysregion PHOTO BY MERAKI CREATIVE AGENCY Founded in 2018, Meraki brightens up celebrations with a variety of customizable decor. Presorted Standard PaidPostageUS GAMonroe, 15NoPermit UnlessGreaterRELEVANT.LOCAL.FayettevilleBusinessJournalisasubscriptionbasedpublication.youarealreadyapaidsubscriber, YOUR SUBSCRIPTIONCOMPLIMENTARYWILLBEENDINGSOON. Get unlimited online access at BizFayetteville.com, twice monthly Business Journals and the annual Book on Business mailed to BizFayetteville.com/subscribeyou!SUBSCRIBENOWAT Government City receives more than $12M for affordable housingEXCLUSIVEWEBbizfayetteville.com Residential Real Estate Data shows volatility of housing market Page 11 Military Business Heroes MAKE America helps train vets in manufacturing Page 13 LIFE OF PARTYTHEFromumbrellastoballoons,joyandcolorcombinetocreatebeautifuldesignsthatbringevenmorepartytothepartyindustry.Afarcryfromtheheliummachineatyourlocalconveniencestore,MerakiCreativeAgencyworkshardtoadd powerstudentsteachgiantsCommunitytoup Page 3 BluePowerRidge&FTCC

Page 2 August 5, 2022 - August 18, 2022 Greater Fayetteville Business Journal CORPORATEbizfayetteville.comGREATER FAYETTEVILLE BUSINESS JOURNAL is bringing our community together around relevant information and ideas. As a Corporate Sponsor, your organization will be publicly recognized for its support of this great resource to our region. The Business Journal keeps our community and those interested in doing business here informed with daily email updates, twice-monthly publications, quarterly Power Breakfasts and an annual Book on Business. Coverage in the Business Journal publications, emails and events ranges from in-depth looks at local industries and economic trends to profiles of new businesses and people in new High-qualitypositions. Business Journals serve as community unifiers. We hope you’ll join us in our efforts to continue giving the Fayetteville region what it deserves — a top-notch business publication that reflects what our business community is and what it can become. CONTACTmarketing@bizfayetteville.com910.240.9697US: OPPORTUNITIESSPONSORSHIP BOOK2022 BUSINESSON bizfayetteville.comVol. 1, No. 1 $2.00 Hotel Tax Fayetteville’s tourism industry banks on hotel tax IndexEXCLUSIVEWEBSUBSCRIBE TO THE NOW BizFayetteville.com/subscribeAT delivered you January. SUBSCRIBE NOW “WE’RE COMMITTED AS A COMPANY TO THE MARKET WE LIKE THE MARKET, IT’S A STABLE MARKET. THEY HAVE A LOT OF COMMERCE GOING ON THERE.” — J. David Allen PRINCIPAL, REALTYLINK UNBOXINGAMAZON’SARRIVAL

Achievers

Page

Retail sales Appliance stores waiting for inventory 31 Technology booster Museums Amazon’s delivery station at 1005 Dunn Road, which currently owned by the Soffe family, will result region and more than 200 full-time and part-time jobs with Amazon and related logistics and delivery firms, Landing Amazon lesson what the region can accomplish when has available properties, moves quickly and knows how it’s being viewed outside the area. “Fayetteville is dynamic mar ket,” said David Allen, principal with RealtyLink in Raleigh who helped broker the deal. “I think the jobs that Amazon will bring to the More than two years before coming to Fayetteville, the project began with modest name — ProjectRobertMove.Van Geons, president and CEO of the Fayetteville Cumberland County Economic Development Corporation, first heard about the opportunity in early 2019. “At the time, we didn’t know who was,” Van Geons said. “Most of our projects start with code name.” In early May, Project Move put Fayetteville on the map of locations selected by Amazon to expand its ever-growing distribution system. 12 Health Care 32

COMMUNITY GIANTS TEACH STUDENTS TO POWER UP We want to deliver timely and relevant news stories that you care about. Send your ideas, comments and business' stories to editor@bizfayetteville.com. GOT BIG NEWS? SEND IT OUR WAY!

Cumberland County Schools

PHOTOS BY FTCC

PowerUp DevelopmentWorkforceProgram

It's wonderful to be part of the workforce.beexperiences,credit,credit,toallowingisopportunities.accesswillthatrealizationopportunitiescommunity.CumberlandThesearetheofourvisioneverystudenthaveequitabletoengagingThisafineexampleofstudentsearnhighschoolcollegegainvaluableandreadyforthe”—Dr.StacyWilson

>> By

Left: Students in a one-week PowerUp Academy training program demonstrate construction of a solar array at Blue Ridge Power in Fayetteville. Right: Chris Dunbar, CEO of Blue Ridge Power, speaks at the BRP PowerUp event. Savanah Ramsey TECHNOLOGYbizfayetteville.com

“On Wednesday, July 20, Fay etteville Technical Communi ty College and Cumberland County Schools joined Blue Ridge Power for the launch of the PowerUp Workforce Development Program. The program will offer opportu nities in solar power construction to high school students starting in January 2023. “It's wonderful to be part of the Cumberland community,” said Dr. Stacy Wilson with Cumberland County Schools. “These opportuni ties are the realization of our vision that every student will have equitable access to engaging opportunities. This is a fine example of allowing students to earn high school credit, college credit, gain valuable expe riences, and be ready for the work force.”These programs are for those who want to jump into a high-paying and fulfilling career in solar through paid internships, pre-apprenticeships, and apprenticeships. Focused on indus try-leading training and support, those enrolled in the program will gain the knowledge, skills, and certi fications to become successful solar technicians.Forthefirst four weeks, students will attend solar classes in FTCC's Continuing Education division and learn about safety, tool skills, basic electricity, and interpersonal skills that are critical for the workplace. For the remaining 12 weeks, FTCC will partner with Blue Ridge Power to teach students about solar con struction, including how to build solar“Thearrays.16-week pre-apprenticeship program will provide high school students with the chance to train for a job in the fast-growing solar construction industry,” said Dr. Mark Sorrells, FTCC's senior vice president for academic and student services.Notonly is the program a good opportunity for young adults to begin their careers immediately, but also a great way to prepare students who plan to attend four-year institu tions“Thisafterward.program will help me in the future because I plan on majoring in a medical field,” said intern Holley Johnson. “I want to major in nurs ing, so as the office manager intern, I have learned how to multitask well. With going into my next chapter of life, I can handle that and not get too stressed about it.” Johnson continued by explaining that having opportunities like this in the community will benefit someone that might not want to go to a fouryear college.

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal August 5, 2022 - August 18, 2022 Page 3

Summer THE PAST AS WE PREPARE TO MOVE FORWARD

FROM STORYWORTH: Marty, How has the country changed during your lifetime? What a great question to try and answer on the anniversary of our country’s 246 years of independence. Some of my earliest childhood memories were in the backdrop of historical events. I vaguely remem ber as a toddler my daddy watching Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins walk on the moon. I also remember gas lines and Water gate. I didn’t understand what was happening but I did understand that it was important to the adults. I remember watching President Nixon resigning on television just before we were leaving for a summer weekend away in little Washington, NC. I remember the day President Reagan was shot. I was in the eighth grade at baseball practice. I guess I could go on and on about my specific memo ries of significant events such as the space shuttle explosion, Clinton’s scandal, 9/11, etc. The country goes on. And I pray that as long as we have this earth as our home, it will continue with the freedoms our forefathers wrote about. It is not a guarantee. World history would predict otherwise. Most long lasting forms of govern

Idon’t know about you, but it seems like I blinked and July was in the rear view! What a great month to spend time with family and friends celebrating life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. During this time, I had some quiet moments to catch up on some read ing and writing. I had fallen behind answering questions from an app my wife bought me a subscription to called Storyworth. Storyworth periodically sends you questions to answer that will later be placed into a book for your family to reflect on. So, as I took some time off on Independence Day morning, I de cided to answer one of the questions below.

life, liberty and the pursuit of happi ness.My hope for this and future generations is that we would be careful not to minimize the freedoms and beliefs of others in the process. The vilification of those that don’t support certain policies and ways of thinking is un-American, and worse, dangerous.Itismyprayer that as Ameri cans, we would continue to protect each other’s pursuit of life, liberty and happiness - no matter what our individual beliefs may be. I also pray that as we do this, our imperfect efforts would be blessed by our God and creator. It is my belief that He controls all and is involved in the daily lives of everyone-working His perfectWelcomewill. to August. God bless you and yours!

reflections REMEMBERING

Page 4 August 5, 2022 - August 18, 2022 Greater Fayetteville Business Journal RAKICEVIC NENAD/PEXELS Cayton looks back at the history of America with a hopeful vision moving forward. 4424 Bragg Blvd, Fayetteville, NC bizfayetteville.com910-240-969728303 PUBLISHER Marty martyc@bizfayetteville.comCayton EDITOR Jenna jennas@bizfayetteville.comShackelford ASSISTANT EDITOR Faith faithh@bizfayetteville.comHatton COMMUNICATIONS & COORDINATOR/REPORTEROUTREACH Savanah savanahr@bizfayetteville.comRamsey CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Charity Jenna-LeyDianaKateBrandsmaGriffinHansenKathieHarrisJamisonMonicaKreberSuetLee-GrowneyEddieVelazquez CONTRIBUTING WRITER MARKETING CONTENT Stacie Borrello CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER Samantha samanthal@bizfayetteville.comLowe ACCOUNTING Priscilla billing@bizfayettevilleNelson 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. SUBSCRIPTIONS Your free trial of Greater Fayetteville Business Journal is ending soon. To subscribe, call 910-240-9697 or visit $9.95subscribe.bizfayetteville.com/Subscriptionscostpermonthor$95peryear. REPRINT For article reprints, plaques and more contact Jenna Shackelford at 910-240-9697. ADVERTISING For advertising information, please email us marketing@bizfayetteville.comatorcall910-240-9697.©Copyright2022GreaterFayettevilleBusinessJournal PUBLISHER’S NOTES

ment eventually have come to an end. When I was a kid, I was taught to honor and serve my country. I am proud to be an American. It is an exceptional place, even with all of its past and present flaws. In some ways, it seemed the US was more patriotic when I was a kid. We seemed to hold more honor for the symbols that represented our freedoms, such as the flag, the pledge of allegiance, the Fourth of July, etc. Every generation has the oppor tunity to build on the foundation that our forefathers laid; to make the house stronger and truer to its original plan or not. I believe the current generation is getting it right and doing their part. One way they are excelling is their efforts to help all generations be more active and ac countable in recognizing the inequal ities of the past and correcting these moving forward. They are building a framework to make sure all citizens are included in the original ideal of MARTY V. CAYTON is the publisher of the Greater Fayetteville Business Journal. 910-240-9697, Ext 101 • martyc@bizfayetteville.com

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In recent months, areas across the country have witnessed spikes and drops in the economy. For some this works in their favor, however, the biggest trend across the board is people being more cautious with their “Slowlymoney. people are becoming more cautious,” stated Joseph Jack son, financial planner with Cape Fear Securities in Fayetteville. “They are afraid of losing principle, which has not been a major concern for most people since 2008.” Looking back, it doesn’t appear that 2008 was that long ago, but in fact it was 14 years ago, the equiva lent to two business cycles. During this period interest rates were lowered artificially, and not just in the United States but globally. “In 2008, those interest rates were lowered down to the point where people were paying for almost noth ing on the fixed side,” said Jackson. “With that being the case, assets that involved a bit of risk, were not as risky as people did not have the alternative to be able to go to the fixed markets and get a 6 or 7 percent return.”With these factors in place the appeal of taking risks was higher as most people were willing to be more receptive to taking additional risks. However, many factors have impact ed not only how the economy looks but also how it works. In 2020, the world was taken by storm with the fast growing advances of COVID-19. Many people were forced to work from home or lost their jobs and some businesses closed their doors. Even to this day some of these businesses have yet to reopen, with some never being able to again. Due to these factors forced by COVID-19 the inflation of the econ omy is rising to a new high. “After COVID-19 and the stimulus money that’s been passed, we’re all experiencing this just inflation, which none of us can ever remember seeing before,” Jackson emphasized. “Not only are gas prices rising, but every day purchases are increasing in costs by sometimes 50 percent. People are hoarding their cash a little more now and trying to find things to do that have a little less risk relative to the stockWithmarket.”thesetimes, it makes it hard for the younger generations, espe cially the young adults finally getting a foothold into the workforce, to navi gate the “Firstsystem.andforemost, I would say for the younger generation to real ly get a good plan for their college loans,” Jackson advised. “I think people typically go to one extreme and pay it all off or pay the bare minimum and not make any extra payments when they can.” Jackson went on to explain that there are even some young adults who put every dollar to their loans, which makes living life tedious. “It’s a balance. The old rule of thumb was to save 10 percent of what you make; now I would say it would be wiser to save 15 percent but still allow you to enjoy your income and live life post school.”Onthe flip side, the elder genera tion are facing even more hardships than those younger than them. “This generation, in my opinion, have been unfairly penalized over the last few years due to this inflation,” Jackson stated. “So the ones [peo ple] that are already retired are not benefiting from increases in wages that we’re seeing and are suffering

With these circumstances this gen eration is nowhere close to putting themselves in the same situation that they were a year and a half or two yearsWhenago.looking at the trajectory for the rest of the year, Jackson foresees a continuing presence of volatility. However, there is no real idea of what could happen to the economy and industry until after the mid-year elections come to a close. Until then, Jackson did give ways on how people can be prepared for a worst case scenario. “Where most people are saying to raise a little bit more cash in investment portfolios, which I agree with. I’ve always been in the camp of paying down any and all debt,” he said. “If it's for a positive, long-term type benefit, such as borrowing to go to school or a home, then it’s a better standpoint to have when investing in theWhenmarket.”discussing generalized debt that is not deductible, such as credit card debt and potential automobile loans, consumers need to focus on

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal August 5, 2022 - August 18, 2022 Page 5 from the prices of everything they are consuming skyrocketing.”

CONSUMER SPENDING PATTERNS SHOW MORE CAUTION TOWARD EVERYDAY SPENDING

SHARON MCCUTCHEON/UNSPLASH

Financial experts advise creating a long term plan for financial security while facing an unknown market.

>> By Savanah Ramsey bizfayetteville.com

BANKING + FINANCE

Economic concerns affect spending

getting those paid off and take a breather when it comes to investing in theNotmarket.only is the market making investing a strain straining on con sumers, but it also plays a part in the roles of financial planners and others that work closely in the industry. “We’ve been blessed with a lot of people that are client focused, but the industry does have the inherent con flict of interest that if you’re telling people to take a breather and not to invest and to pay down debt, then it’s counterintuitive to increasing your income,” said Jackson. If this does happen to those in the industry, then it presents a decrease in banks and investment firms trying to drive their revenue for that year. With the future of the market in the unknown, it’s important to not let the negative connotation affect how one makes financial decisions. “We can’t let the constant negativ ity that we experience in the financial news drive all of our decisions,” Jack son added. “We need to ignore those comments and realize if we stick to a long-term plan, you can still enjoy everything else happening in life.”

Page 6 August 5, 2022 - August 18, 2022 Greater Fayetteville Business Journal Simply Better

The owners’ unique designs make events fun and memorable.

Echeverri and Cobb’s creations have been seen at multiple notable events, including the Dogwood Festival’s VIP tent, Campbell University’s summer orientation setup, Methodist University, the Systel building, Habitat for Humanity, Fayetteville Academy, and the Holly Day Fair, just to name a few of the their clients.Meraki Creative Agency brings something special to every event, making it unforgettable. For Echeverri and Cobb,the party doesn’t stop, not even in the face of a global pandemic. The outbreak of COVID-19 brought unexpected challenges for every business. Being a party business in the age of social distancing may seem counterintuitive. Meraki Creative Agency took every precaution into consideration to ensure people could still have their special days safely. “It was an interesting time,” Echeverri said. “Whenever they did virtual meetings, we would create something for the back corner, that way you still have your virtual meetings except it was a little more colorful, a little more vibrant.” Meraki has worked with clients creating special decorations for driveby parties, showers, and other events. The agency found plenty of opportunities with supplying decorations for outdoor events and no-contact assembly. “The people were still wanting to celebrate,” Echeverri said. “People still wanted to do things for theirEvokingpeople.”joy and making memories are some of the goals of Meraki Creative Agency. “People will remember if you created something – like, they’ll remember that specific piece because it’s going to evoke something in them. So, it really is up to anybody who wants to create a nice memory and just wants to have something joy ful,” Echeverri said. Clients have options of choosing to have photo ops at their house for parties, bigger ones and smaller ones. The agency calls those ‘Instagrammable art installations,’ and it’s all to promote making memories. There is something particularly endearing about a company that’s not just selling a product, but a company that sets the stage for moments everyone will remember for their whole lives. “Creating memories, and joyful ones. Once you realize what it really is, it just brings something different to it,” Echeverri said. With the creative utilization of color coupled with the company’s positive philosophy, Meraki Creative Industries makes great strides in spicing up today’s business scene. “Everything is what you make of it,” said Echeverri. “Anything that we do, we try to do it abundantly, and that’s what brings the joy.”

>> By Kate Griffin bizfayetteville.com

“ Everything iswhat you makeof it. Anythingthat we do, we try to doit

whatandabundantly,that’sbringsthejoy.”—KarollEcheverri

The agency’s glamorous balloon fixtures, ornate murals, party packages, tasteful large-scale installations, and unique artistic projects are all eye-catching and dazzling. It’s hard to think that it all began in an alleyway just two years ago. “We kinda did a test run, an experiment and it was that alley downtown, right next to the Taphouse. We cleaned it up and painted it and hung the umbrellas on the alley,” Echeverri stated. “Everything’s super colorful, everything’s just a lot of a lot.”The owners say the company's creative repertoire is vast. “Our communications [are] pretty visible, so it exposes us a lot in that way,” Echeverri said. “When you create something so unique, it’s going to stay on people’s minds. And, as a business, that’s marketing.” Clients can pick from the plethora of options listed on the agency’s website. However, in addition, Echeverri and Cobb say they are more than happy to work with a client’s vision. “We want to create joy. We want people to feel happy,” Echeverri said. “We love it now, whenever people reach out to us, they can say, ‘We want to do this. Just do your thing.’” Assembly time varies from project to project, but ever since moving to their larger brick-andmortar location on Marlborough Road, the company can cut preparation time by assembling their creations prior. Clients have the option of curbside pickup, or the agency will prep the installation on the site of their event. The installations are stable. “We always have to tell them [clients], ‘You will have to pop them!’” Echeverri said.Their artistry and engineering behind each and every project Meraki takes on is evident, but of course, none of them are complete without a hefty sprinkling of fun, and none of them possible without heart. “We pour ourselves into it. Thankfully, it shows, so it’s nice that people feel that and get to see that. That’s how that trust has been built with our clients,” Echeverri Everythingsaid.at Meraki Creative Agency means something, from their creations right down to the agency’s name. “A lot of people don’t realize this but the name ‘Meraki’ is Greek for doing everything from the heart, leaving a little bit of you in everything that you do,” Echeverri said. “And that’s what we do – we pour ourselves in everything we do.”

From MERAKI, page 1 made Meraki Creative Agency into the business it is today. “I just hit a wall with what I wanted to focus on with creating my dissertation, and then I started diving into color,” Echeverri stated. “I was trying to find different ways to create a bigger impact and a bigger impression than just the normal stuff.”

Meraki Creative Agency

HOSPITALITY

PHOTOS BY MERAKI CREATIVE AGENCY

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal August 5, 2022 - August 18, 2022 Page 7

“We are pleased to receive this recognition from U.S. News & World Report. Providing exceptional healthcare for all our patients has always been our top priority,” said Mike Nagowski, CEO of Cape Fear Valley Health. “Our team of caregivers is committed to the highest standards for quality and safety, and this recognition is a result of that commitment.”TheBestHospital rankings have been ongoing for 33 years and “are designed to assist patients and their doctors in making informed decisions about where to receive care for challenging health conditions or for common elective procedures,” the press release Additionally,said.the hospital was deemed as “High Performing” for several conditions, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, colon cancer surgery, diabetes, heart attack, heart failure, kidney failure, and stroke.Moreover, the rankings Health Equity measure indicated that Cape Fear Valley Medical Center has more representation of low-income patients compared to other counties. Health equity was measured by data on “various dimensions of equity for historically underserved patients,” the release said. Arts Council staff selected as review panelists for grant programs Three staff members of the Arts Council of Fayetteville|Cumberland County will serve as reviewers for various prestigious grant programs in North Carolina, Kentucky, and throughout the United States.

Harnett GovernmentCountywelcomes new HRJANICEdirectorLANE , a lifelong Harnett County resident will be heading up the county Human Resources Department following an announcement from Harnett County Director BrentWithTrout.over 20 years of experience, Lane has served in all areas of Human Resource management in the private sector including policy development, performance management, conflict resolution, training and development, recruiting, and benefits administration. Lane has also developed and implemented successful recruitment and retention programs, and supported employee engagement during organizational changes. “I am excited that Janice has joined our Harnett County leadership team,” stated Trout in a press release. “Janice’s professional experience in the private sector in Human Resources policy development, performance management, recruitment and benefits administration, along with her personable leadership and communications is a great fit for our organization. I look forward to seeing the impact she makes for our employees.”ASumma Cum Laude graduate of Mount Olive, Lane holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Management and Organizational Development along with a minor in Human Resources. She is also a certified Professional in Human Resources by both the HR Certification Institute and the Society for Human Resource Management.“Iamexcited for the opportunity to lead the Human Resources Department and invest in our employees so that we can continue to help Harnett County thrive,” Lane said in a pressLanerelease.willbe focusing on strategies to recruit and retain qualified candidates for County government positions, leading efforts on the County’s upcoming compensation study, enhancing employee training and development, and managing the annual employee performance review process. Fayetteville insurance agent continues to achieve successJERRYCLEMMONS, a life insurance sales agent with Olde Fayetteville since 2012, continues to bring his agency pride. Clemmons is recognized by life insurance sales organization the Million Dollar Round Table as one of the top 5% of professionals in the world. He has also won the 2021 Silver Agent award for the second highest sales in life insurance for the American National Insurance Company, and the Chieftains Award as one of the top two qualifiers for the organization's conference.

has been named as the new Fayetteville Area System of Transit Director by the City of Fayetteville. Starting in August, Neal will become the first ever woman to direct the system following the retirement of current director, Randy Hume, who is retiring thisAlongSeptember.withtaking over management of FAST’s $13 million annual budget, Neal will also oversee the Transit Development Plan which will work to make FAST a system of choice, and begin transitioning to electric buses by 2024, both projects she began working on during her time as assistant director. The FAST system continues to serve community transportation needs by providing more than 1.6 passenger trips per year through regular bus routes, FASTTRAC! ADA services and is an essential part of the City’s emergency responses.

Neal has served in positions in transit systems in Charleston, South Carolina, Greensboro, Chapel Hill and Washington, D.C. and has been serving in Fayetteville since 2017.

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a Best Regional Hospital U.S. News & World Report has declared Cape Fear Valley Medical Center a Best Regional Hospital for 2022-23, a recent press release from CFVMC said.

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal wants to hear from you and your business to shine a spotlight on your accomplishments.

directorwelcomesFayettevillefirstwomanofFASTTYFFANYNEAL

See

page 9 Neal

City of

To nominate someone for GFBJ’s Achievers section, email editor@bizfayetteville.com with the subject line “Achiever.” ACHIEVERS, Lane Clemmons

Page 8 August 5, 2022 - August 18, 2022 Greater Fayetteville Business Journal bizfayetteville.com

Director of Operations ANTONIO RENTERIA, Executive VP KENNON JACKSON, JR., and Director of Grants and Allocations MICHAEL HOUCK were 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.

In the past few years, FAST has received more than $20 million in federal and state grants, CARES Act and American Rescue Plan funds to expand services to more residents. Neal will be taking over at a time for more growth potential for the system.“Fayetteville is experiencing exciting levels of development and growth and I realize this is a great opportunity for FAST to transition from a need-based transit system to a CHOICE mode of transportation for every resident within our community,” Neal said in a press release. “I am excited for the opportunity to continue working towards ensuring the value of FAST permeates throughout our community.”

ACHIEVERS What

“During her career with the City, Tyffany has proven to be a smart, attentive and passionate leader who will have the ability to continue our success in Transit,” City Manager Doug Hewett said in a press release. “She brings innovative solutions daily and has earned the respect of her peers. I am excited for the future of FAST under her capable leadership as we transition to electric buses and cashless payment options that better serve our riders.” Neal is a graduate of Strayer University, where she earned her Masters of Public Administration Degree and also has a bachelor of arts degree from South Carolina University. Neal is also a member of the North Carolina Public Transit Association (NCPTA) Board of Directors and the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials.

Blue Ridge Power named as one of the country’s Top Solar Contractors Blue Ridge Power Company has been recognized by Solar Power World Magazine as one of the country’s “Top Solar Contractors”. The company ranked #7 for “Top Solar engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) work.” BRPC has more than 1 million KW installed, and projects operating or in development in 16 states across the country including in North Carolina. BRPC so far has placed 6 GW of solar in service and has 1.3 GW currency under construction. Blue Ridge Power was announced as a new EPC company under Pine Gate Renewables’ operations last year. In connection with the launch, Blue Ridge Power acquired the solar division of Fayetteville-based Horne Brothers Construction Inc. BY BLUE RIDGE POWER Blue Ridge Power acquired Fayettevillebased company Horne Brothers Construction last year.

ACHIEVERSbizfayetteville.com

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal August 5, 2022 - August 18, 2022 Page 9

Renteria also was a grant review panelist for LexArts in Lexington, Kentucky, dealing specifically with assessing General Operating Support grants. The program aims to provide funding to organizations that benefit the lives of citizens of central Kentucky through artistic, cultural, and educational programs and activities.

selected to review agency grants for three grantmaking programs. Renteria was selected to serve as a grant reviewer for North Carolina Arts Council’s Spark the Arts grant program. The program supports art providers in their engagement with the public through a variety of means including “programming, marketing, rebuilding staff capacity and facilitating safety protocols,” an Arts Council press release said. The grant program’s emphasis is on “The Sparks the Arts Campaign is a great reminder of the diversity, talent, and creativity of our North Carolina artists,” states Antonio Renteria. “It’s an honor to serve on the grants committee and get a firsthand look at programs across the state designed specifically for public engagement and the revitalization of the arts community here in N.C.”

Jackson and Houck were selected as panelists for the National Endowment for the Arts Challenge America grant“NEAprogram.isthe only arts funder in the United States (public or private) that provides access to the arts in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories,” the press release

From ACHIEVERS, page 8 HAVE YOU SECURED YOUR BUSINESS?Video•AccessControl • Intrusion Detection • UL Fire Protection Systems Real Time-LOCAL monitoring Speak with a LOCAL person 24/7/365 910.483.1196 / HolmesSecurity.net Offices in Fayetteville & Wilmington LET’S CONNECT! Stay up to date on the latest business news by following Greater Fayetteville Business Journal www.callahanrice.com · 910.484.6171 HOME I AUTO I LIFE I BUSINESS Your Trusted Choice in the community for over 50 years. PHOTO BY ARTS COUNCIL OF FAYETTEVILLE/CUMBERLAND COUNTY L-R: Renteria, Jackson, Houck PHOTO

The Challenge America grant program, since 2001, has helped the NEA promote and provide equal access to the arts in the communities they serve across the country. Moreover, NEA is committed to “diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility, and fostering mutual respect for the diverse beliefs and values of all individuals and groups,” the release said. “It is a great honor to serve at the request of the NEA,” stated Kennon Jackson Jr. “Many arts organizations across the country continue to struggle in the wake of COVID-19. Our small contribution to the Challenge America grants program creates a sense of pride in knowing that the Arts Council has helped with our time and talent.”

the ranks

The study is conducted on an annual basis. CNBC analyzes 88 metrics across ten categories of competitiveness. Since 2017, N.C. has been in the top five three times. North Carolina also ranked highly in the Economy, Access to Capital and Technology and Innovation categories.“North Carolina is the best place in America to do business and the main reason is our people,” Governor Cooper said. “This is a great honor, and we’re going to continue to work with our state legislature, businesses, education leaders and employees to build the talented workforce and resilient infrastructure needed to support the high paying jobs of the next generation.”

North Carolina falling outside of the top ten states for business was a rarity; but taking the no. one spot was a Creditedfirst. for the accolade were the investments into the state’s economic development were investments into the state’s industry growth and teamwork between opposing political parties to help North Carolina thrive.

Governor of North Carolina

NORTH CAROLINA HOLDS COVETED SPOTS ON TWO RANKED LISTS ON BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT

“To say North Carolina had a record year in 2021 would be an understatement,” said Gene McLaurin, chair of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina’s (EDPNC) Board of Directors. “Our economic development successes would not have been possible without collaboration between Governor Cooper, the North Carolina General Assembly, the North Carolina Department of Commerce, the EDPNC, and other public and private partnerships. Because of that collaboration, we have been able to create an award-winning business climate that the biggest companies in the world want to experience and use for their own successes, as well as for the successes of North Carolinians.”

North Carolina has historically performed well in both Business Facilities’ and CNBC’s competitive rankings; this year, the state takes the top spot on both lists.

The news organization reported that, since 2007, the occasion of up

Earlier in July, CNBC declared North Carolina as “No. 1 in America’s Top States for Business.”

“North Carolina is proud of its economic success that continues to garner national recognition like being CNBC’s Best State for Business,” said North Carolina Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders. “Last year, we announced more than 24,000 new jobs and investments exceeding $10.1 billion from future-focused companies in fields like biotechnology, computers, and electric vehicles. There are many factors for our success, including our central East Coast location, premier quality of life and low cost of business, but our greatest asset is our diverse and highly-skilled workforce that is supported by our top-rated education system. We will continue to focus on creative partnerships for talent development as we evolve to meet the demands of ex isting, new, and future employers like Apple, Toyota, and FUJIFILM that call North Carolina home.”

North Carolina’s business community has been the talk of the town across the nation as it has been recognized as an ideal place to work. Last year, Business Facilities released an annual ranking that placed North Carolina at the no. two spot in the Best Business Climate category. This year, the national economic development magazine dubbed the state as no. one on the list. “We appreciate Business Facilities Magazine for recognizing North Carolina as the Best Business Climate,” said North Carolina Commerce Secretary Machelle Baker Sanders. “Despite the economic impacts of the pandemic, 2021 was a record year for North Carolina with 185 economic development projects, announcing more than 24,000 new jobs and $10.1 billion in “Northinvestments.”Carolinahit a new level for business attraction and retention over the past 12 months, and our ranking of the state for Best Business Climate recognizes what an increasing number of companies have recognized by locating or expanding there,” said BF Editorial Director Anne Cosgrove. “This ranking also looks beyond the sheer numbers, evaluating diversity of growth sectors, incentives, workforce development and training, and education partnerships.”Additionally, North Carolina made the top ten of numerous other categories of the Annual Rankings Report, including Tech Talent Pipeline, Customized Workforce Training, Food Processing, BioPharma, Semiconductors, Manufacturing Output (GDP), Offshore Wind Power (MW by 2030), Solar Installed Capacity, and Foreign Direct Investment for both project and capital investment.“Theseachievements are the result of our strategic and diligent work that continues to propel North Carolina toward a more resilient future,” said Secretary Sanders. “Our diverse, world-class workforce, shovel-ready locations, and top-tier education system combined with a stellar quality of life and low-cost of living and doing business has attracted innovative projects and global companies like Apple, Fujifilm, and Toyota. These big wins are ushering North Carolina to an even brighter future.”

GIORGIA TROVATO/UNSPLASH

North Carolina is proud of its economic success that continues to garner national recognition like being CNBC’s Best State for Business.RoyCooper

Page 10 August 5, 2022 - August 18, 2022 Greater Fayetteville Business Journal IN THE NEWS bizfayetteville.com >> Staff Report

Moving

The number of new listings in June 2021 were 131. The number of new listings in June 2022 were 133 –a +1.5 percent change. From the beginning of 2021 through June 2021, Hoke County saw 626 new listings; from the beginning of 2022 through June 2022, Hoke County saw 592 new listings – a -5.4 percent change. June 2021 saw 123 closed sales, whereas June of 2022 saw 101 closed sales – a 17.9 percent decrease. From the beginning of the 2021 through June 2021, there were 519 closed sales. This year, there was an increase with the number of closed sales from the beginning of 2022 through June 2022 clocking in at 526, a 1.3 percent change. The average sales price from the beginning of 2021 through June 2021 was $209,162. The average sales prices from the beginning of 2022 through June 2022 was $255,167 – a 22 percent change.

The number of new listings in June 2021 were 312. The number of new listings in June 2022 were 273 – a -12.5 percent change. From the beginning of 2021 through June 2021, Harnett County saw 1,461 new listings; from the beginning of 2022 through June 2022, Harnett County saw 1,402 new listings – a -4 percent change.June 2021 saw 312 closed sales, whereas June of 2022 saw 246 closed sales – a - 21.2 percent change. From the beginning of the 2021 through June 2021, there were 1,183 closed sales. This year, there was an increase with the number of closed sales from the beginning of 2022 through June 2022 clocking in at 1,202, a 1.6 percent increase. The average sales price from the beginning of 2021 through June 2021 was $277,746. The average sales prices from the beginning of 2022 through June 2022 was $332,457 – a 19.7 percent increase.

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal August 5, 2022 - August 18, 2022 Page 11

By the numbers DATA FROM LOCAL ORGANIZATION REFLECTS HOUSING MARKET’S VOLATILITY >> Staff Report RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATEbizfayetteville.com

The number of new listings in June 2021 were 655. The number of new listings in June 2022 were 588 – a -10.2 percent change. From the beginning of 2021 through June 2021, Cumberland County saw 3,364 new listings; from the beginning of 2022 through June 2022, Cumberland County saw 3,304 new listings – a -1.8 percent change. June 2021 saw 547 closed sales, whereas June of 2022 saw 502 closed sales – a -8.2 percent change. From the beginning of the 2021 through June 2021, there were 2,683 closed sales. This year, there was an increase of 6.2 percent with the number of closed sales from the beginning of 2022 through June 2022 clocking in at 2,850. The average sales price from the beginning of 2021 through June 2021 was $198,600. The average sales prices from the beginning of 2022 through June 2022 was $223,338, a 12.5 percent increase. HOKE COUNTY

HARNETT COUNTY

CUMBERLAND COUNTY

How volatile is the housing market? Longleaf Pine REALTORS Association, a local professional trade association, provides local market updates and data. The data below refers to existing single family homes in the Fayetteville MSA. The sales price data does not account for sales concessions or down payment assistance. LPR also notes that percent changes use rounded figures, and small sample sizes can make the changes look more extreme.

>> Staff Reportbizfayetteville.com

The North Carolina Technol ogy Association released the results for its third quarter poll of leaders in North Carolina’s technology sector. Leaders gave their viewpoints about the economy, hiring plans, success of their own businesses, and“Leadersmore. in North Carolina’s tech community are continuing to hire, anticipate growth in the coming quar ter, and feel that the state’s business climate is positive,” NC TECH CEO Brooks Raiford said. “However, there has been some moderation of opti mism and growth expectations since last quarter’s poll.” NC TECH polled 315 people and had a 40 percent response rate. Among the people who participated were NC TECH Association’s Board of Directors, Board of Advisors, and top executives across the state in the technologyBusinessessector.gave their perspective of how the past quarter has treated their organizations with 19.8 percent of businesses stating they did great, 49.2 percent stating they did good, 12.7 percent being slightly disappointed and 2.4 percent viewed it as terrible. In a press release earlier this month, NC TECH reported that, in June 2022, Fayetteville saw an 8 percent decrease in openings for IT positions, with the number of avail able positions clocking in at 1,608. However, North Carolina witnessed a 41 percent increase from June 2021,

Tech leaders expect growth

THIS IS ENGINEERING/UNSPLASH Tech leaders expect growth with 68 percent of businesses reporting doing good or great in the third quarter.

Page 12 August 5, 2022 - August 18, 2022 Greater Fayetteville Business Journal SUBSCRIBE NOW AND GET UNLIMITED DIGITAL ACCESS TO FAYETTEVILLE’S BEST BUSINESS COVERAGE! Subscribe now for… • 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 bizfayetteville.com/subscribeSubscriberegion!Army Airfield Regional EXCLUSIVEBizFayetteville.com/subscribe BizFayetteville.com SUBSCRIBE DOWNTOWN BOUNCINGFAYETTEVILLEBACK tapped Prismatica,initiatives FireworksFlagsgame with cheering WoodsculpturesbaseballpaintedentrancespublicspacessidewalksexhilaratingpresidentWithnearconditions,Fayettevillebright,andsheddingunderCOVID-19buildingincreasedbeginning ................................................. “Thinking recoverystrategy Shonemanresponses Artplanning helped change approach to withthevibe Summer expected to draw crowdsunprecedentednumerousevents Cameo post-pandemic BizFayetteville.com/subscribeSUBSCRIBEJOURNALsubscriptionUnlimited mailed month delivered January. NOW WHEELS UP 2019, UpWeeklynewspaper.andColemanAugust).more yearsbumpy appearsports, leftlimited recovery,FAY prov-fastest-recoveringcontinues Carolinacommercial-serviceairportsAsimprovededge.Bradleysomethingdestinationsyears.Fayetteville(FAY)experiencedpassengersignificantlyfacilityMayorairport“underperforming,”then-directorfailedbechangethinkwrong,”Jan. .............................................. Hospitality...................................................................................... FAYETTEVILLE REGIONAL AIRPORT IS HOPINGFOR FRIENDLIER SKIES FAYETTEVILLE JOURNAL FayettevilleRegional Airfield TRAVELERSnonstop(January-present) personal/leisure24% BusinessArmy Index EXCLUSIVE “WE’RE COMMITTED AS A COMPANY TO LIKE THE MARKET, IT’S STABLE MARKET. THEY HAVE A LOT OF UNBOXINGAMAZON’SARRIVALM

NC TECH POLL RESULTS INDICATE SUCCESSFUL THIRD QUARTER with a total of 52,650 openings in 2022.With the current economy, 81 percent of the business leaders that participated in the third quarter poll are still expecting to be hiring while 17.5 percent have halted their hiring process.Inthe future, 50.4 percent of the businesses expect to grow and 42.4 percent expect they will stay the same. Almost 7.2 percent of people polled expect that their business will decline during the rest of the year. When still looking at the future of the businesses, some of the partici pants are on the fence when it comes to expanding or going completely re mote. Only 19 percent are looking to continue expansion 26.2 percent plan to decrease their footprint and 39.2 percent plan to stay where they are. Only 5.6 percent of the businesses plan to move completely remote.

“Here at Fort Bragg, we have the Certified Production Technician. All of our training, all of our material is accredited through MSSC (Man ufacturing Skill Standards Council). In addition to the CPT, that is giving them a basic overview of manufactur ing itself,” said Bloomer. “The CPT focuses on four areas: production, maintenance, quality and safety. So in addition to the safety module they’re also getting their OSHA 10 certifica tion and their Forklift certification.” The program also teaches other workforce essentials by bringing in those with military affiliation who have already transitioned into work ing in manufacturing. Topics such as salary negotiation, professional networking, resume development and interview skills are covered by both veterans and by representatives from partner manufacturers. On top of gaining skills in the classroom, students are also intro duced to manufacturing through tours of facilities every Friday to see first hand the kind of work they may be doing after completing the pro gram.“Aservice member could have a role in their mind. So, let’s say they’re wanting to do quality assurance, and they think, ‘Okay, I really want to do quality assurance.’ They might get into a shop floor – let’s say it’s in Smithfield in the pork process ing industry and they think, ‘Okay,

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal August 5, 2022 - August 18, 2022 Page 13

there were about 350,000 jobs open in manufacturing. Here currently, our (The Manufacturing Institute’s) Chief Economist out of D.C Mr. Chad Moutray reports that there are over a million jobs open in manufac turing. So there’s a severe need in the skills gap in the trade industry.” Bloomer says the population of military families, the booming biotech industry found in the Trian gle and the semi-permanent military communities made Fort Bragg an ideal spot for the program to focus on manufacturing.Theclassiscurrently underway at FTCC with 13 students until August 26, with the next course scheduled to begin in October. A total of 124 students have finished the program since it began in 2019 and it currently has a 91 percent hiring placement rate among those graduates. Eldridge says it’s important to have a vast variety of programs available to meet the needs and of the soldiers they serve as well as offer long term success and stability. “We’re trying to meet the soldiers' needs, as well as put them in pro grams that they’ll be able to support themselves in. We can’t give them a program where they’re only going to make $30,000 a year. That’s not a good situation to put someone in,” said Eldridge. “So we have to put these programs that we know the sal ary, and the potential to grow in these programs in your career will increase your salary so you are able to support yourself financially once you exit the military.”Theprogram is available to all branches of the military and those with military affiliation and veteran status including military spouses and dependants.“Ourfocus was, ‘Hey, the manu facturers see how well the veterans skills are translating into manufactur ing.’ And the veterans are like, ‘Hey, we’re making this awesome smooth transition into this manufacturing sector,’” Bloomer said. Anyone interested in the Heroes MAKE America Program can contact FTCC Transition Tech Recruiter Pendy Eldridge at transtech@faytechcc.edu, or find out more about the program online at themanufacturinginstitute.org/veterans.www.

PHOTO BY HEROES MAKE AMERICA

>> By Faith Hatton

One of their recently added pro grams is bringing transitioning veter ans into the world of manufacturing. “Heroes MAKE America'” organized through nonprofit organization The Manufacturing Institute,was added to the FTCC Transition Tech pro grams in April of 2019. The Heroes MAKE America program works to support veterans as they leave the military and ease in their transitional phase into the private sector. The program also partners with manufacturers look ing to increase their workforce with former service members within their organizations.Accordingto

MILITARY BUSINESSbizfayetteville.com

maybe this isn’t what I want to do,’” Bloomer said. “It really opens their minds to the possibilities, all the broad possibilities within manufac turing when they get to go to do the in person tours.”

Even during the COVID-19 Pan demic, introductions were adapted into a virtual event called “Heroes Connect” when tours weren’t possi ble.“The Heroes Connect is what we’ve started on Wednesday after noons to give the manufacturers more involvement,” said Bloomer. “They get on and they tell a little bit about their company and who they stand for and their morals and what they produce, and then they will always have some form of leadership whether it be from HR or a plant manager or, heck, even sometimes the CEO will directly be involved in coming and speaking. And these events aren’t just open to our par ticipants but to the broader military community.”Otherprograms at other military installations cover logistics and mechatronics with their students but Bloomer says manufacturing needs in the Cumberland County area is what decided the program focus for Fort Bragg.“It’s the need. Honestly, there’s a workforce crisis in manufacturing.” said Bloomer. “When I took over as program manager in August of 2020

Military veterans get to Work

THE HEROES MAKE AMERICA PROGRAM & FTCC HELP TRANSITION MILITARY MEMBERS INTO THE CIVILIAN WORKFORCE

Heroes MAKE America Fort Bragg Program Man ager Lauren Bloomer, the program is associated with 14,000 manufacturers and Fort Bragg is one of six training programs available across the coun try.The program collaborated with those partners to figure out what needs they needed to fill as they de veloped their training programs.

The FTCC class group tours the Kinston, NC Smithfield packing plant for a firsthand look at job options.

Every year, men and women prepare to leave their life of military service and transi tion to civilian life – 200,000 in fact, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.For those service men and women, finding work in the private sector can be tricky as many navigate life outside of military schedules, assign ments and work culture and choosing whether or not to reenter the work force.According to the Department of Defense, 98,507 Army retirees and their family members reside at Fort Bragg alone. For those retirees looking to jump from the armed forces to the workforce can start at Fayetteville Technical Community College through their Transition Tech Department.“Wecurrently have ten different programs that transitioning service members or veterans can enroll in to help secure employment outside of the military,” said Pendy Eldridge Transition Tech Recruiter with FTCC. “The majority of our stu dents coming out of the military are specialists and they’re 11B’s which is Infantry and they don’t have a lot of job skills to help them find employ ment. And that’s where we step in.”

Where can trades seek talent? Historically, diversity within skilled trades remains low so an expansion of this talent pool needs consideration.More women in the industry and more minorities such as people of color, for example, are necessary to create a diverse workforce. Careful speech with potential candidates and attracting them with a solid, long term career path and employee value may prove successful. Rather than just an hourly job in the trades and regular paycheck, growth potential and incentives must be incorporated into the Regardpackage.andrespect for talent when they onboard into the system remains a top priority. The millennial workforce brings the focus to ecosystems compatible with millennials. Correct technology and dedicated training keep employees engaged and productive. This focus gives a longterm workforce family a home base. This dynamic must remain a high priority.Thekey to labor force participation identifies the key to what these potential employees crave. The market perspective must focus on the target audience. Rather than a reactive approach – a proactive perspective must TRAINING AND TECHNOLOGY TO BENEFIT INDUSTRY

Achlerkar takes great strides to address employee retention issues. “We have an understanding for what it takes and the key to that is understanding what these people are starving for, right? So, is it pay, is it benefits? Is it work/life balance, is it a happy workplace where they would like to come enjoy working for those companies? We have to really understand,” he told Carolina Business Review.One alarming statistic shows the average age of the home services technician or installer is 55, Achlerkar told Carolina Business Review. Fresh talent must flow quickly to the home services market sector. Diversity and inclusion needs demand focus. This talent pool requires quality education. Talent must see the purpose behind a financial reward as incentive besides the reward itself. Workers in trades serve customers dynamically so they require a strong support system behind them to stay energized. NearU follows this model. The reach for talent begins with technical schools and community colleges.Students who enjoy customer interaction and possess natural talents for technical repairs or installations can see these open opportunities when presented and reviewed with them. The door opens and sheds light and a new perspective on career directions and possibilities. Targeted outreach can help. The labor shortage remains currently most prominent in the various trades sectors and the demand to keep workers in the trades and prevent turnover persists. Traditional talent pools need a “think outside the box” approach to attract diverse populations into the trades. The implementation curve falls far behind here with pronounced failure to address these issues years ago. The more proactive approach can circumvent the fallout we see today. NearU recognizes the growing requirements and expectations customers desire for quality and dedicated customer care, reliability, and convenience. Companies receive the resources, training, and tools to deliver high quality service to the customer thus a seamless experience. Trade sector workers realize how their valuable contributions make a difference on so many levels. Customers receive quality and courteous help with jobs done right the first time. The overall concept creates a win-win, positive experience for everyone. The NearU approach to acquisitions allows for a very smooth transition for the business owners and their employees. Customers are always held in the highest regard within the transition and continue to receive personal care, service, and value. The customer remains honored utmost. Business owners retain more control over the sale of their business with NearU acquisitions. The seller focused transaction allows for the business to continue their individual legacy. Businesses receive fair value for efforts and time investment recognized, and NearU provides ongoing support and builds the business stronger with more resilient growth. To find Skilled Trades Champion podcasts Achlerkar has developed, visit the NearU website at www.nearu-services. com. To contact NearU by phone, call 215-341-7561. The headquarters for NearU is located at 2101 Sardis Rd N, Charlotte, North Carolina 28227.

>> By Diana Hansen

PHOTO BY NEARU NearU has acquired several HVAC companies locally and continues to make its mark on the home services industry.

Page 14 August 5, 2022 - August 18, 2022 Greater Fayetteville Business Journal IN THE NEWS bizfayetteville.com

NearU began a revolution in the home services industry utilizing a people centric and process driven model. Ashish Achlerkar, Founder and CEO at NearU, started the company in August 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina; since then, NearU has acquired a total of six companies – two companies are in Fayetteville. Two are in Carthage, and one is in Holly Springs and one is inTheseDudley.locations are all in the Fayetteville region and surrounding areas. NearU stands out as a family of home services companies. Seasoned visionaries create a dynamic industry niche. First, the company focuses on HVAC, plumbing, and electrical brands to serve residential and commercial markets. Coupled with acquisition management teams and employees of acquired companies, NearU provides methods and resources to better the lives of customers, employees, and communities. NearU works to build their home services industry to benefit everyone. Whether an employee, customer, or business owner, all see great benefit within this revolution. Employees can expect better pay and excellent benefits. Paid training at the onset and continuous training while working on the job to assist employees. NearU recognizes that the success of their employees reflects the success in the home services industry with their concept to invest in those they hire. They will even assist with licensing and certification and a career path for growth. Flexible work schedules deliver another perk. Achlerkar, when asked about the issues with the labor market by Carolina Business Review, noted that labor continues to be a challenge. He stated that the situation could escalate to a crisis mode unless addressed promptly. Achlerkar sees gaps between skills in available talent versus market requirements that increase day by day and takes a proactive approach to address the widening skills gap. According to Achlerkar, “It is – it continues to be – and if someone does not proactively address that, it will become a crisis very, very soon. We are kind of on the cusp of crisis.”

NearUexist.homerevolutionizesservices BUSINESS UTILIZES

6 LEWIS, DEESE & DITMORE, LLP 310 Dick Street, Unit A https://www.ldnlaw.com/910-672-4600 63 Real Estate, Family Law, Estate Law and Appellate Work Renny W. Deese, Senior Partner 1970

11 ARMSTRONG & BARRINGTON, PLLC 127 S. Cool Spring Street Fayetteville,N.C.28301 armstrongbarrington.com910-433-2000 62 Personal Injury, Wrongful Death, and Traffic, DWI, and Criminal Defense C. AdamBarrington III, Managing Partner;C. BruceArmstrong, Founder and Partner1988

6 MURRAY & CRAVEN, LLP 2517 Raeford Road Fayetteville,N.C.28305 https://www.mcilaw.com/910-483-4990 23 Tax, Corporate Law, Estate Planning, Probate, and Guardianship Ocie F. Murray Jr., PartnerAttorney/Managing1995 6 RAY, O'CONNOR, COLEMAN & HALVERSON, PLLC 345 Hay FayettevilleStreet,N.C.28301 https://raylawnc.com/910-483-2101 33 Estate Planning (Wills, Trusts, Powers of Attorney, Living Wills), Estate and Trust Administration; Taxation; Commercial Real Estate Robert G. Ray 2009

On August 11, Fayetteville’s of Fay-

Fayetteville,N.C.28301

Public Works Commission will host its Industry Day networking event. The event will take place at the PWC Administrative Offices at 995 Old Wilmington Road from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Those in attendance will get to experience PWC and City

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal August 5, 2022 - August 18, 2022 Page 15 FREEPIK.COM People with questions regarding the event can call 910-223-4016 or email nikole. bohannon@faypwc.com. THE LISTbizfayetteville.com Law Firms Ranked by number of local lawyers RANK ADDRESSFIRM WEBSITEPHONE NO. LOCAL LAWYERS/ NO. FULL-TIME STAFF AREAS OF PRACTICE TOP LOCAL EXECUTIVE(S) YEAR LOCALLY FOUNDED 1 HUTCHENS LAW FIRM 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville ,N.C.28311 https://hutchenslawfirm.com/910-864-6888 9619 Creditor’s Rights, Real Estate, Litigation, Family Law, Wills & Estates, Corporate and Business Transactions H. TerryHutchens, Managing Partner 1980 2 THE CHARLESTON GROUP 201 Hay FayettevilleSt.,N.C.28301 https://www.charlestongroup.com/910-485-2500 1610 Business & Commercial Transactions, Public Finance, Affordable Housing, Government Affairs & Public Policy, Regulatory, and Complex Business & Commercial Transactions R. Jonathan Charleston, Principal 2003 3 PLAYER MCLEAN, LLP 400 Westwood Shopping Center, Suite 210 Fayetteville,N.C.28314 https://www.playermclean.com/910-426-5291 105 Complex Civil Litigation, Business Law, Real Property, Contract Law, Condemnations, Incorporations, Collections, Wills and Trusts, Employment Law Lonnie M.Player Jr., Managing Partner 2010 3 THE RICHARDSON FIRM 455 Ramsey Street Fayetteville,N.C.28301 https://www.therichardsonfirm.com/910-488-5050 115 Criminal Defense, Traffic Violations, Civil, Personal Injury, Wrongful Death, Professional Malpractice, Workers Comp, Family Law, Military Law, Federal Traffic Violations Matthew H.Richardson; Kris Poppe; William O. Richardson, Partners 2008 5 WUNSCH LAW FIRM 760 McKinney Pkwy Lillington,N.C.27546 wunschlawfirm.com910-814-8777 44 Criminal, Traffic/DWI, Family, Civil, Entertainment Suzanne Matthews, Harnett DA 2001 6 BUZZARD LAW FIRM 728 S. Main Street, PO Box 700 Lillington,N.C.27546 https://www.buzzlawfirm.com/910-893-2900 63 Criminal Law, Civil Litigation, Personal Injury, Medical Malpractice, & Family Law Robert A. “Tony" Buzzard, Managing Partner1991 6 COTTON LAW FIRM 219 Dick FayettevilleStreet,N.C.28301 (910) https://cottonlawfirm.com/702-4878 63 Criminal defense, personal injury, traffic matters, and estate planning, divorce NicholeCotton, Managing Attorney 2010

etteville procurement opportunities, such as: • Purchases and inventory needs • General and professional service needs • Electric and water system construction/repair needs • Building constr uction//repair needs • Fleet vehicle needs In addition, attendees will get the chance to become a supplier of PWC and City of Fayetteville, certify as a small local supplier, and enroll in iSupplier/get online support. Anyone interested in attending the event can register at industry-day-tickets-372713846147.www.eventbrite.com/e/ >> Staff Report bizfayetteville.com PWC Industry Day FAYETTEVILLE’S PUBLIC WORKS COMMISSION AND THE SMALL BUSINESS AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT CENTER TO HOST NETWORKING EVENT ON AUG. 11 LIST IS BASED ON VOLUNTARY RESPONSES TO A BUSINESS JOURNAL SURVEY.

IN

PHOTO BY CAPITOL ENCORE ACADEMY Faculty, staff, board members, and government officials were among some of the attendees at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Capitol Encore Academy facility. bizfayetteville.com

>> Staff Report

The Capitol Encore Academy, an arts-integrated public charter school located in downtown Fayetteville, has purchased a building to expand its educational reach from K-8 to K-12. The new building is located at 200 Mason Street. The building was orig inally built in 1968 and was renovated in 2010.Atjust around 30,000 square feet, the three-story building also comes with 67 parking spaces. “The first two floors of the building will hold the regular academic classrooms, officers, cafeteria, and conference rooms,” stated in the press release. “The third floor will host the art classrooms and the TCEA High School theater space.”With this new building, the stu dent capacity will increase from 600 students to 730 The school expects enrollment of 1,000 scholars in the years to Currently,come.the school has 67 fulltime employees and nine part-time. The academy hopes to add 14 FTEs and increase employment by 36 per cent.The current expansion and sup porting construction costs are valued at $7,500,000, according to the press release. The project is being funded with educational bonds. The academy celebrated the occa sion with a ribbon cutting in late July.

Page 16 August 5, 2022 - August 18, 2022 Greater Fayetteville Business Journal • Share your ideas and perspective with the Business Journal audience • Position yourself and your firm as the thought leader in your industry • Host a dedicated page on the Business Journal site with your content and contact information with shareable links accessible 24/7 SPONSOR BENEFITS Insights will be featured throughout the Business Journal website, daily emails, with additional distribution via social media DISTRIBUTION GREATER FAYETTEVILLE BUSINESS JOURNAL | 910.240.9697 | MARKETING@BIZFAYETTEVILLE.COM TO FIND OUT MORE VISIT bizfayetteville.com INSIGHTS

Capitol Encore Academy GETS NEW BUILDING DOWNTOWN FAYETTEVILLE

SCHOOL

>> Staff Report IN THE NEWS

In addition to being an NC Promise campus, which reduces in-state undergraduate tuition to $500 per semester, we offer these free payments to ensure everyone who wants to attend college has that opportunity.” The payments are made possible by the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund, which the university received as part of the CARES Act, stated the press release. The tuition payments will be awarded on a first-come first-served basis. For more information, call 910-521-6255.

payments INCOMING FRESHMAN

DOM

The state of North Carolina’s unemployment rate saw a minor decrease in June 2022, down 1.6 percentage points from June of 2021. The state's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate for June 2022 was 3.4 percent, unchanged from May’s revised rate. The national rate also remained unchained at 3.6 percent. The number of people employed across the state increased 12,675 through the month of June bringing the new total of employed people to 4,929,133, a 0.3 percent increase. This number also saw an increase of 215,137 for the full year. The total number of unemployed totaled 172,658 seeing an increase of 1,767 or 1.0 percent, over the month and a decrease of those unemployed by 74,565 over the year. The labor force participation rate went up 0.1 percent to total 60.5 percent since last month. Total nonfarm employment data gathered through the monthly establishment survey, reported seasonally adjusted Nonfarm employment increased to 4,754,100 in June. Total Nonfarm jobs increased by 152,000 while the Total Private sector saw an increase by 160,800. Major industries seeing increases in their employment numbers include Education & Health with an increase of 5,700, Professional & Business services at 5,000, Trade Transportation & utilities at 3,700 and Construction at 3,000. Other industries also saw growth on a smaller scale including Government with 2,600, Financial activities with 2,500, Leisure & Hospitality Services at 900 and Information with 700.Major industries experiencing decreases include Government, 8,800, Manufacturing by 1,100, Transportation & warehousing by 800, Other Services, 200 and Mining & Logging,100.Theamount of Initial Unemployment Insurance claims has dropped 47.1 percent since June of 2021 and job openings have seen an increase of 0.2 percent since may of 2022 with an additional 641 openings bringing the total to Cumberland393,902.County and surrounding counties saw a slight increase in their unemployment rates from May to June 2022. According to Local Area Unemployment Statistics, Robeson County’s unemployment rate remains the highest at 5.9 percent seeing a continued increase of 0.1 percent since May of 2022. Cumberland County saw a 0.1 percent increase to 5.3 percent overall.Hoke County rose 0.2 percent to a total unemployment rate of 4.9 percent. Bladen County has a current rate of 4.5 percent in unemployment. Harnett County saw a 0.3 percent increase to 4.1 percent in unemployment, and Moore County had a slight increase of 0.3 percent bringing the total unemployment rate to 3.7 percent. Sampson County saw a 0.3 percent increase since May bringing the total rate to 3.6 percent.

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal August 5, 2022 - August 18, 2022 Page 17

N.C.decreasesUnemploymentslightly

Payments made available

NORTH CAROLINA SEES MINOR DECREASE IN UNEMPLOYMENT RATES COMPARED TO MAY 2022

The University of North Carolina at Pembroke will be offering up to $1,000 in tuition payments to incoming freshmen this school year. For freshmen to participate in this offer, applications must be received by August 5 and be enrolled for the fall semester to qualify. “One of the major concerns for potential students is cost and how they are going to pay for college,” said Tim Sampson, director of Financial Aid. “As a university, we want to make college affordable.

UNCP

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ERNIE JOURNEYS/UNSPLASH June 2022 unemployment rates saw a slight decrease but overall remained unchanged.

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Page 18 August 5, 2022 - August 18, 2022 Greater Fayetteville Business Journal COUNTYCUMBERLAND Center Span LLC 4929 US Hwy 301 Hope#201 CarolineLamourAgent:Fayetteville6489LLCLamour'sRutgersAgent:Fayetteville118anderLawWright-RichardsonAgent:Fayetteville1715ingComingFillyawAgent:Fayetteville364Art'sSweezyAgent:Fayetteville1930EnterprisesPhoenixPalmerAgent:Fayetteville4601LLCCapeDavisAgent:MillsBenjaminRidgeGroupHoeCourtJacobVirtualLLCAlderRdJamicaN.RVSitesL.L.C.WindermereDrLeonArthurThurTruckLLCSwannStAshelyOfficeofAlexRutgersP.C.RushStAlexanderEstatesSudburyDrLuidorRemote Paralegal LLC 324 Bitterroot Ct Agent:FayettevilleAlida Caro line PrestigBoyceeClean LLC 100 Bradford Ave Apt FayettevilleApt121tionsOrganiqueRodriguezAgent:FayettevilleTrail406PaintingCrossingShabaazAgent:Fayetteville155HoldingsM&MPollardAgent:F901keepingTriciaROBLESAgent:FAYETTEVILLE1017JRNicholeAgent:Linden7264BHJamarAgent:Fayetteville10DominiqueGreenMr.HaulingLLCHoneybeeLnChristinaBoardmanSTEVENSLLCRIMROADJOYCES.LynnBookLLCBucknellRdayettevilleTriciaLynnCaribbeanLLCBienvilleDriveMalikMeadowsColorsLLCWoodstreamAptGSelvinDSoluL.L.C.WestwickLn19 Agent: Shatara T. 4SearcyKids Rentals LLC 5328 N Sumac Agent:FayettevilleCircleKristin Cole man Woodall Devasthali Law Firm PLLC 816 Elm St 3017tiesDJHarmonAgent:Flevard5177BoutiqueGlamorJamesAgent:Hope6635Inc.PineburrHaverAgent:Hope2310BKHBradyAgent:Eastover3914LLCAngelaCorporationLivingAgent:Fayetteville503100PTGOGallberryAgent:TeresaHopeStreet5579CorpCommunityArtistDevasthaliAgent:Fayetteville#35202ManishaVillageTheatreHeatherMillsDavisFarmLLCHayStreetSteAbundantConsultingLLCBradyREDunnRoadAngelaJ.ConsultingLLCHBullardRdMillsBritaniaKGroupLoblollyDriveMillsFairleyGrimesQueenLLCBraggBouayettevilleAshiaJRaymerProperLLCScottyHillrd Agent:FAYETTEVILLEDoyle L. Raymer Jr Uniquely clean cleaning service 5150LLC meadow brook drive FayettevilleAgent:MoniqueLashonWaddyKEEPITABANAGENCYLLC1900SHILOHCTFAYETTEVILLEAgent:KEITHWELLSPhasesRecoveryCommunityPLLC3771RamseyStreetSte109-145FayettevilleAgent:NikiaD.RitchieTheFamilyConnectionLLC711BrentwindsLnApt208SpringLakeAgent:DaniellePeguesCouncilmenLogisticsLLC4801MonticelloAveHopeMillsAgent:BarnabasCouncilMimi'sPersonalHomeCareLLC3011TownCenterDrSte130Unit#152FayettevilleAgent:MikailaRochelleJohnson-HusamudeenMackandMackLogisticsLLC3208PointCrossingPlFayettevilleAgent:MarcusMccollumTRGGeneralServicesLLC3011TotleyDrFayetteville Agent: GregoryJimmieRogers Jr Brown Family Prop erties LLC 271 Saint Johns 5448GrailgosAgent:HopeStreet3057AssociationPhaseWinsteadBrownAgent:FayettevilleWoodRobertPlaceIOwnersInc.NorthMainMillsLouisFran1LLCWichitaDr. J8 5448GrailJeffersonAgent:FayettevilleJames2LLCWichita Drive Agent:Fayetteville2658Aquarigo360MontgomeryAgent:Fayetteville1619TruckingOnSlatonAgent:FayettevilleBox6380NetworkanesAgent:FAYETTEVILLEAPT617trationSSMckoyAgent:FayettevilleRd817mentsM&MJeffersonAgent:FayettevilleJ8JamesAssetInvestLLCHarryTrumanMakkitiaJAssetsAdminisLLCDUGGINSWAYGShaniceSkPlusLLCCliffdaleRd.26072MarvinNtheMoneyLLCWinnabowDrDerrickDLLCRivercliffRdTraciHughes East Ramsey LLC. 1821 McArthur Agent:FayettevilleRoadTerry A Bill Crossroads Assist ed Living LLC 1720 Shaw Road Agent:FayettevilleElouise Cr PMWoss Holdings LLC 2560 John McMil lan 10CMorganton#1031GroupFlawlessAgent:FayettevilleBlvd2724SY&ZRumaAgent:Fayetteville2121tographyArianneWallaceAgent:FayettevilleRoad46351SolidarityYEOMANSAgent:FAYETTEVILLE206INCBARRY'SShaneseAgent:FayettevilleAve5409LLCReinventedDeniseAgent:FAYETTEVILLE1608VWHLeighAgent:HopeRdMillsJenniferWoodsTruckingLLCROGERSDRVandellaHaynesbyJayFredCatesApt3JessicaJacksonFREIGHTRODIEAVEBARRIANLLCDuncastleAPT2EBilsonJ.ClarkPhoLLCHeathcotedr.ArianneClarkNCINCSTEBBraggZhiguiZhongLogisticsLLC5075RdSTE Agent:FayettevilleJanethea M DestinedBoyd For Purpose 4409vicesFourAgent:Fayetteville681SuccessHandBethelAgent:FayettevilleRd3499CustomsBrandonYelvertonAgent:FayettevilleDrive500MinistriesApostolicIncTradewindsLaKeishaLBethelLLCThamesfordBrandonOverHandInc.EdgehillRdWR&JTINCPointsSerLLCDivotPointFayettevilleAgent:ReneeSKilgoreEagleEyeMaintenanceLLC.910HollowBridgeRdAutryvilleAgent:ShandrikaMcNair-WilliamsROBESONSTREETINVESTMENTSLLC3057NORTHMAINSTREETHOPEMILLSAgent:LOUISFRANGOSRAEFORDVENTURESLLC100TwinAcresDriveFayettevilleAgent:RobertL.KirkTweakedByJahneyLLC2751GeorgeOwenRdFayettevilleAgent:JahneyMoniqueBranch WhatdaHec LLC 5114 Foxfire Rd Agent:FayettevilleHector Anto nio Ruiz MarieAgent:Fganton#1285SingLaronAgent:Fayetteville801priseMcCororyMorriseyAgent:FayettevilleMALL410QueenAgent:FayettevilleBranch1568LLCTdinMitchellAgent:Plion4505LLCEndurancePachecoAgent:FayettevilleSuite111CenterAaliyah'sEverlyAgent:Fayetteville4037StudioTheneeAgent:Fayetteville215LunastellaSmithLLCJuddSt.AshleyReKingBohoBeeHairLLCLifestyleRdBreannaCloudDayCareLLCLamonStreet115GabrielaLogisticsBlackStalCtarktonJamesKolbe-HarwinConfectionzGrassyDr.AmyJordanofSkinLLCCROSSCREEKDanyelleEnterMc2LLCLewisStreetMarticeMcCororyforLifePLLC5075MorrdSTE10cayettevilleCourtneySingharath 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. BIZ LEADS bizfayetteville.com

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal August 5, 2022 - August 18, 2022 Page 19 Freeman Coaching Institute LLC 106 Oakridge Ave Unit Agent:Fayetteville58554Rejeana G T&KFreemanLogistics and Transport LLC 9380 Castle Falls Fayetteville2247SalesJonesCurtisAgent:FayettevilleDrive3639LLCAFranklinAgent:Fayetteville4400VentureMASTCrumplerAgent:Fayetteville626SOULFOODSusanAgent:FayettevilleDr2841StreetMadeLEAHAgent:SPRINGRD3325IT'SWilsonAgent:FAYETTEVILLESTE907CYMARKETINGSILVERMoniqueAgent:FayettevilleCirTashondaHughesPALMSAGENLLCBrightonRd.41613SheltonSBEYONDLLCARROWHEADLAKERAMONAMCCRAEonMapleLLCBargemasterAndreaToddFORYOUR"LLC"BladenCircleBarbaraRavenJointLLCBraggBlvdSheffieldFordIIIPowellTransportDornochApt.EAnthonyPowellJRAutomotiveLLCRusticTrl Agent: YASHICA TransitionsJONES Lawn Care & Landscap ing 3767LLCCOLONIAL CV HOPE Fayetteville109WHHElizabethAgent:FayettevillePlace639GroupMurphyAKROFI-AYEHAgent:FAYETTEVILLEDRIVE7898MandielAgent:FayettevilleDrive2948ADOJohnsonAgent:Stedman5630MerphiHaddockAgent:FayettevilleDr.3516tiveHaddock'sLashunAgent:FayettevilleApt3581RecyclingCarRENZOAgent:Fayetteville3653ingK&DvisCharlesAgent:MILLSCodyBrisson-traHealthyVendLLCStandardDr.KEVINLOWHITEScrappersAutoLLCBirchfieldCt301KatinaCherryInnovaGroupLLCClearwaterJamesGroupLLCMurphyRoadGloriaLLCMirrorLakeAndrewDanO'QuinnJr.yALLCRIVENDALEAMANDAPropertiesLLCExecutive#101KatherineMurphyExpressLLCGroomsStreet Agent: Gloria Mary HEATHER VICTORIA MUSIC LLC 5637 MUM CREEK LloydVictoriaAgent:FAYETTEVILLELANEHeatherGavinTransport LLC 91 Walter West Rd Agent:FayettevilleJoe Lloyd Beautifully Woven Counseling and Consulting Services 1734PLLC Boros Drive Agent:FayettevilleKishia Jones SmithWayWilliams Logistics 6790LLC Stone Moun tain Farm Road FayettevilleAgent:Dennis C. 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