Greater Fayetteville Business Journal - September 6, 2024 issue
First ever BBQ competition coming this fall Page 10
awa, a privately held, family and associate-owned chain of more than 1,060 convenience retail stores currently operating in eight states and Washington, D.C., has officially broken ground on its first Wawa Travel Center in Hope Mills, North Carolina located at 5750 Corporation Drive. The store is Wawa’s first in Cumberland County and is projected to open in the second quarter of 2025.
“We are excited to bring our travel center prototype to our newest North Carolina store here in Hope Mills,”
PHOTO PROVIDED BY WAWA
Smithfield
Federal Food Symposium 2024
THE NCMBC TO BRING FOOD FOCUSED SYMPOSIUM TO FAYETTEVILLE; EVENT WILL BE HELD IN PERSON FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 10 YEARS
Committed to bringing together potential federal contractors across industries, the North Carolina Military Business Center (NCMBC) has announced a returning opportunity to connect with government buyers.
The Federal Food Symposium (FFS) is slated to bring food vendors, food science researchers and federal military and defense contracting officials together at Fayetteville Technical Community College this fall.
The event will be hosted by the NCMBC, the Office of US Senator Thom Tillis, the Office of Senator Ted Budd and the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
The FFS will feature keynote remarks, conversations with federal officials and subsistence industry leaders and networking opportunities for industry players to forge new business relationships.
NCMBC Executive Director Scott Dorney described the event as a chance to connect with both the federal government and private enterprise.
“This is an opportunity, like all of our events, to bring buyers and research and development entities on the government side together with suppliers on the industry side,” he noted.
For local producers, the event will signify a learning opportunity in the world of government contracting.
“Understanding how the government acquires that food through prime vendors or other purposes, will help our producers understand the system and sell more,” Dorney said.
This is particularly important, Dorney emphasized, because the agriculture and food production industry is the one that makes the most money in North Carolina.
“It brings in over $90 billion a year,” he said. “Luckily, the military buys food, so we can tap into what is the largest industry sector in North Carolina. So we’re tapping into that biggest industry sector in North Carolina, and [into] our research and development, where we have some really unique research elements in North Carolina. We’re able, through this event, to connect not only our
The Federal Food Symposium will be coming to the FTCC campus and returning to an in-person format for the first time since 2014.
growers and our food producers, but our research and development community with the appropriate folks from the Department of Defense (U.S. DoD), all within this biggest industry sector in our state.”
SOME OF THE GOVERNMENT AGENCIES AND PUBLIC OFFICES THAT WILL HAVE REPRESENTATIVES AT THE EVENT INCLUDE:
⸱ The offices of U.S. Senators Thom Tillis and Ted Budd, both of whom represent North Carolina.
⸱ The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA).
⸱ The Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA).
⸱ U.S. Department of Justice.
⸱ Federal Bureau of Prisons.
Dorney said the diversity of attendees will make the event, which runs from Nov. 19-20, engaging to everyone in the industry.
“It’s not just the government speakers up there,” Dorney said. “We’ll have people from the industries of retail food, tactical rations and troop feeding. We are going to have speakers talking about when and how they acquire food. But we also have industry speakers who are either current contract holders or prospective contract holders, and speakers doing research and development in food science on these panels. It will be a great way to stimulate conversation. We really want to engage the industry.”
Beyond the panels, attendees may
have the opportunity to tour one of the two commissary grocery stores at Fort Liberty. This tour is still pending approval.
“Monthly sales of the very large commissaries on Fort Liberty, which include a North Carolina products section, typically exceed millions,” Dorney said. “This tour will provide insight into the DeCA processes for receiving, displaying and selling fresh and packaged foods to active duty and retired military and their families.”
“Understanding how the government acquires that food through prime vendors or other purposes will help our producers understand the system and sell more.”
— Scott Dorney, NCMBC Executive Director
Similarly, the event will also feature a tour of the troop feeding Dining Facility at Fort Liberty. This tour is also still pending approval.
receiving and preparing food for 50,000 soldiers that work on Fort Liberty every day,” Dorney said.
“The tour – and other FFS sessions that address DLA subsistence contracting – will provide insight to attendees on opportunities to introduce products to the troop feeding supply chain.”
The event will also prove to be a good opportunity to learn about where big federal contracting entities like the U.S. Military are directing their food operations. In the case of the military, Dorney shared that attending the symposium will be especially beneficial for contracting companies when learning the necessary and sought-after innovations in the realm of tactical rations.
This year’s iteration will be the first time the FFS has been held in person since 2014.
“We had one scheduled for 2020 which ended up getting canceled, so we had to do a virtual [event] in 2021,” Dorney said. “So this is the first time we’ve gotten the band back together for quite some time.”
While Dorney said that virtual events have their place, the networking potential of an in-person gathering is “irreplaceable.”
“This tour will orient participants to U.S. Army processes for ordering,
“So a company that comes to this, let's say they are an egg producer, they will learn how to introduce eggs into the commissary system for retail sale, they will understand how to go about getting their eggs into the dining facilities,” Dorney said. “Those 50,000 soldiers that eat breakfast every day, we want them eating North Carolina eggs. You can’t beat the opportunity if you’re a grower or a producer, or if you’re doing food science research at say NC State, to come and really talk to people one on one across a diverse government market.
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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This past Labor Day Weekend, I was able to celebrate yet another trip around the sun. My husband and I celebrated my birthday on Aug. 31 and, along with celebrating the fact that my birthday fell on a three day weekend this year, it was an opportunity to reflect on my family, my career and everything I’ve learned during my time here on Earth. In honor of my now 29 years of life, here are 29 lessons I've learned:
1. No one is ever looking at/ thinking about you as much as you think they are.
2. Not ever y opportunity is an opportunity for YOU, and that's ok.
3. God's got it. They'll destroy themselves.
4. There are people that you can be useful to and there are people who will use you. Find a way to help the former, lay down some strong, clear boundaries on the latter.
5. You may not have spoken to them in years, but they are still your friend.
6. Never work only for recognition or approval of others. You have to like what you do just a little bit.
7. Money alone is never a good reason to stick with a job, just like a good environment shouldn't be the ONLY reason you stick with a job.
8. A glamorous public perception is never a good reason to stick with a job.
9. Never let your cousin do your hair
10. 9 to 5s are under rated, idk what everyone was on about.
11. Being kind and encouraging to others is not a weakness. Those are the people you never want to anger.
12. Hold your tongue until you get the full picture/ story.
13 Most of our infor mation can be found somewhere online. We've sacrificed a lot of privacy for the ability to socialize online.
14. Trying new things isn't scary. It's good for you, it's how you grow.
15. Sometimes, you move to Minot, ND and end up meeting the love of your life. Take a chance at an adventure.
16. Sometimes, people will do everything in their power to not give you your flowers. It's fine.
17. Alter natively, when those same people do inevitably give you your flowers, humble yourself and accept them.
18. Be dramatic about it for a little bit, and then let it go. Repression isn't good for the body or soul.
19. The word 'NO' is not poisonous, it's a powerful tool to help you keep up with life.
20. It is better to have them build a bridge and get over it than to be someone's doormat.
21. If you see something you like and you can afford it, just buy it.
22. We're only on God's green Earth for so long. Eat the cake.
23. Make sure you know how to really clean by the time you're 20.
24. Master three to four lazy dishes that don't require a chopped onion. Your lazy days will thank you.
25. Don't use third- par ty food delivery services, just go get it yourself.
26. Never wait for others to celebrate you, celebrate yourself.
27. The moment you stop worrying about things you can't control is the day you've freed yourself.
28. It's hard to make friends as an adult.
29. If you're not a mind reader, they're not a mind reader. Use your grown up words and communicate.
I hope you enjoy this issue featuring the latest in military business, an upcoming food festival and new real estate developments coming to Hope Mills! You can also check out page five for the information on our upcoming Power Breakfast series taking place on Sept. 24! This will be my first time moderating the panel as editor of GFBJ and I can't wait to see what our panelists share about Fayetteville’s thriving art community!
Happy reading!
The Greater Fayetteville Business Journal is excited to welcome the business community to our third Power Breakfast of 2024. Everyone is invited to join us at the Ralph and Linda Huff Orangery at Cape Fear Botanical Garden on Sept. 24 from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
Titled “Creative Impact,” this Power Breakfast will highlight some of the prominent arts organizations in our area and what our community can do so the arts have an even greater impact on our lives and local economy.
“People need art; we wear it, we eat it, we get married in it, we listen to it on repeat. I can’t wait to help shine a spotlight on these organizations. I’ve had a chance to meet up with our panelists to learn more about them and some of the unique offerings. In our discussions, we’ve been able to brainstorm some talking points to pique the interest of the business community in Fayetteville,” shared Greater Fayetteville Business Journal Editor Faith Hatton. Hatton will serve as moderator for the upcoming Power Breakfast.
“This is my first time moderating our Power Breakfast event and I plan on making it a little more conversational. Instead of being at a podium, I’ll be sitting with the panelists on the stage. My goal is be with them at their level and have a moderated conversation about the importance of the arts in this community, instead of following the stricter question by question interview structure,” explained Hatton.
TAKING THE STAGE FOR THIS EVENT ARE FOUR PROMINENT PLAYERS IN THE LOCAL ARTS COMMUNITY:
MARY CATHERINE BURKE
Artistic Director Cape Fear Regional Theatre Burke joined Cape Fear Region-
CREATIVE IMPACT
The Ralph and Linda Huff Orangery Cape Fear Botanical Garden
al Theatre with nearly 20 years of experience as a Director, Dramaturge, Assistant Director and Artistic Director. During her seven-year tenure as Artistic Director at CFRT the organization's budget has grown from $1.3 million annually to over $2 million annually and increased the number of people served from 43,000 to over 60,000. She is passionate about theatres reflecting the community they serve.
CHRISTOPHER B. HOFFMAN
CEO, Cape Fear Botanical Garden
Hoffman is the chief executive officer of Cape Fear Botanical Garden. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture from Texas Tech University. Hoffman’s work prioritizes connecting people with nature, and each other, through memorable
experiences, meaningful engagement and environmental education.
Executive Director Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra
Meyer is the Executive Director of the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra. Prior to her appointment as Executive Director, Meyer served as the symphony’s Community Engagement Manager. Meyer is a graduate of the University of Minnesota where she studied theatre arts and leadership. She spent several years working as a stage manager in Minneapolis, MN before transitioning into the arts administration field. Meyer is passionate about supporting artists in creating for their communities, and enjoys working with artists, patrons and sponsors.
ROBERT C. PINSON
President/CEO The Arts Council of Fayetteville Pinson serves as President of the Arts Council of Fayetteville and Cumberland County. In his role, Pinson focuses on taking care of the staff and their families and on the mission of the organization to embrace diversity, promote individual creativity, advance economic development and foster lifelong learning through the arts.
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CUMBERLAND COUNTY
and mini fans all gathered together in front of the official
said John Poplawski, Vice President & Chief Real Estate Officer for Wawa. “We look forward to spreading our wings to include the Fayetteville market, while launching our new Wawa Travel Center prototype with features to appeal to both family travelers and professional drivers alike.”
Kyle Watt will serve as the general manager for the Hope Mills location. The approximately 8,300 square foot center will offer Wawa’s signature fresh food and beverages, six high
speed diesel fuel lanes with free water and air at each pump lane and 20 fuel spots for passenger drivers. Other amenities include interior and exterior seating, a CAT weigh station, 18 free short-term parking spaces for tractor-trailers, 83 parking spaces including five parking stalls for RVs and oversized vehicles, two free air pumps, well-maintained restrooms and a family restroom with a changing table and a pet relief area.
“Wawa has a 60-year history of innovating and evolving our store
design to meet the changing needs of our customers,” said Poplawski in a press release. “Our Wawa Travel Center is the latest concept we are testing to combine our one-of-a-kind food and beverage offerings with a new store format to meet the needs of travelers and professional drivers.”
By the end of 2024, Wawa projects to have nine stores open in North Carolina in places such as Kill Devil Hills, Rocky Mount, Elizabeth City, Greenville, Wilson and Goldsboro. In 2025, Wawa plans to open up to 11 stores in additional locations including Robeson and Cumberland Counties. Over the next 8-10 years, Wawa plans to build and open six to eight stores per year reaching a total of 90 stores in North Carolina. Wawa will invest more than $7.5 million per store and employ on average 140 contractors and local partners to build the store. Once open, each store will employ an average of 35 associates with Wawa expecting to create more than 3,000 long-term new jobs as a result of expansion in North Carolina.
Wawa and the Wawa Foundation have contributed over $150 million since The Wawa Foundation’s inception in 2014. As part of the groundbreaking, Wawa and The Wawa Foundation announced a $2,500 contribution to local community partner the USO to support the shipment of
care packages to deployed military personnel from this market.
“Whenever we enter a new market and throughout our time serving the community, we will always look for ways to give back, and this grant for the USO is just one way we will be doing just that in North Carolina for many years to come,” shared Poplawski in a press release.
“
We look forward to spreading our wings to include the Fayetteville market, while launching our new Wawa Travel Center prototype with features to appeal to both family travelers and professional drivers alike.”
— John Poplawski, Vice President & Chief Real Estate Officer, Wawa
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY GFBJ
Left to Right: The groundbreaking ceremony included a “Taste of Wawa” event which allowed guests to sample some of Wawa’s snacks, drinks, and signature offerings; Wawa leadership, superfans
signage marking the new location for a family photo
PHOTO PROVIDED BY WAWA
Designed with all neutral wall colors and pops of bright color, the food service and specialty beverage area are open concept with a casual dining area. The interior will also include large, well appointed restrooms including a family restroom with a baby changing station.
ACHIEVERS
Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County announces staff promotions
The Arts Council of Fayetteville/ Cumberland County is pleased to announce the promotion of two dedicated staff members in support of the organization’s strategic plan. Sarah Busman and Kashia Knight are moving into new roles at the organization.
SARAH BUSMAN, formerly the Arts Education Manager, has been promoted to the newly created position of Director of Community Engagement. In her new role, Busman is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to engage diverse community members in the Arts Council’s initiatives. The Director of Community Engagement leads efforts to build meaningful relationships with community partners, enhance public participation and promote cultural inclusion in the Arts Council’s execution of its strategic plan. Busman manages direct artist engagement by supervising staff responsible for the Arts Council’s Mini Grant, Artist Support Grant, Artists In Schools, Artist in Residence, primary exhibit and Local Artist Spotlight Gallery initiatives.
KASHIA KNIGHT, formerly the Grants Assistant, has been promoted to the position of Arts Education Manager. In her new capacity, Knight manages the Artists In Schools and Mini Grant programs providing administrative and logistical support to individual artists and Cumberland County schools.
Knight has demonstrated exceptional organizational skills, creativity and a deep commitment to supporting the grants department. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences and foster meaningful learning experiences will be instrumental in advancing the organization’s arts education programs.
“Promoting Sarah to the Director of Community Engagement and Kashia to the Arts Education Manager marks an exciting new chapter for the Arts Council. Their combined leadership and vision will enhance our mission to enrich, inspire and connect our community
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.”
through the arts. We are confident their expanded roles will deepen and diversify our community outreach and further elevate arts education opportunities across Fayetteville and Cumberland County” shared Kennon Jackson, Jr., Arts Council Chief of Staff, in a press release.
Cape Fear Botanical Garden welcomes new director of philanthropy
Cape Fear Botanical Garden announces recently appointed SHANNON BELL as the new Director of Philanthropy. With 10 years of experience in fundraising for higher education, non-profit and healthcare organizations, Bell brings a wealth of expertise to the Garden team.
In her new role, Bell will spearhead philanthropic initiatives focused on enhancing the Garden and building strong relationships with donors and community partners. Her extensive background in strategic planning, program development and major giving positions her as a valuable asset in driving the Garden’s mission forward.
“I am energized to join Cape Fear Botanical Garden and contribute to its growth and success,” Shannon Bell said in a press release. “Coming back to Fayetteville to work with such a dedicated team and board as we invest in this new season for our community’s greatest gem is a blessing.”
Bell most recently served as the Director of Development at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She led fundraising efforts for several key centers, achieving a significant increase in revenue and commitments. Her role also involved designing and
implementing philanthropic activities and providing guidance to multiple teams.
“Shannon’s enthusiasm and entrepreneurial spirit align perfectly with our vision for Cape Fear Botanical Garden,” said Cape Fear Botanical Garden CEO Chris Hoffman in a press release. “Her experience in stewardship and rebranding will be instrumental as we embark on new philanthropic efforts and community engagement.”
Fayetteville Regional Airport selects new airport director
The City of Fayetteville has selected a new airport director to lead the regional airport into the next chapter beginning Oct. 2.
ANDREW LAGALA, aviation operation and management professional, was selected as the new Fayetteville Regional Airport Director after an exhaustive 11-month search.
LaGala has over 30 years of experience in the aviation field and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation Business Administration from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He holds a private pilot’s license and is a member of the American Association of Airport Executives, receiving his professional designation of Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) in 2018.
“I am excited to have been selected to assume this critical leadership role as airport director of Fayetteville Regional Airport and to contribute to the airport’s continued success and growth,”
said LaGala in a press release. “Maintaining an efficient full-service airport with quality airline service is a key element in local economic development efforts, and I see tremendous opportunity for FAY to enhance its potential to contribute to those efforts.”
LaGala most recently served as the airport director for Lynchburg Regional Airport for the last five years. He spearheaded several efforts in that role including a postCOVID development strategic plan to recover airline flight frequency, rehabilitating the primary runway at Lynchburg Regional Airport and enacting many other airport capital improvement projects.
“Andrew’s knowledge of both airport operations and air service development will serve the airport well in our future expansion efforts,” shared City Manager Douglas Hewett in a press release. “We’ve already completed more than $60 million in capital improvements over the last several years, were able to secure two additional flights to Atlanta, received $5 million for an international terminal and will break ground on a consolidated rental car facility shortly.”
Cumberland County programs receive Excellence in Innovation awards
Cumberland County has earned Excellence in Innovation awards for a pair of County programs from the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) in partnership with the Civic Federal Credit Union.
The awards, which recognize successful county programs that demonstrate innovative solutions and cost/resources savings for counties, were given for the Cumberland County Public Library System’s Community Navigator Program and for the Department of Public Health’s WIC Office on Fort Liberty. Cumberland County was one of 12 counties recognized by the NCACC and the only county that received multiple awards.
LaGala
Bell
Busman
Knight
“We are honored that the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners saw fit to recognize two Cumberland County programs during this year’s conference,” said Cumberland County Board of Commissioners Chairman Glenn Adams in a press release. “At the end of the day, the work we do as the Board of Commissioners and as County government is about making a positive difference in the lives of our residents and being good stewards of their tax dollars – these awards recognize two programs that do both of those things and that is something we are extremely proud of.”
The Community Navigator Program places a trained community navigator within the Cumberland County Public Library system to work with Library customers who may be experiencing a variety of issues including homelessness, mental illness and substance abuse to connect them with resources. Since its inception in November 2023, the Community Navigator Program has successfully connected more than 100 individuals with resources ranging from housing and food assistance to medical care and reentry support post-incarceration.
“We are elated that less than a year after introducing this new program, we are being recognized by the NCACC,” said Cumberland County Library Director Faith Phillips in a press release. “Libraries provide a safe space and refuge for many of our residents and this program meets them where they are to connect them with resources that can give them the tools they need to improve their lives. This award fuels a fire in us to keep striving to positively impact our community.”
The Cumberland County Health Department opened a satellite
Women, Infants and Children (WIC) office on Fort Liberty in March 2023. WIC is a Special Supplemental Food and Nutrition Education Program funded by the U. S. Department of Agriculture, which has been shown to reduce food insecurity and improve health outcomes.
“Our WIC team has worked strategically with our partners at Fort Liberty and UNC to increase WIC services for military families who have served our country,” said Cumberland County Public Health Director Dr. Jennifer Green in a press release. “Improving access to healthy foods among our military families is important for each of our WIC families and to our overall military readiness.”
Primary Care at Pinehurst Medical Clinic Expands in Pinehurst
SARAH BLAIR, FNP, is the newest addition to the primary care team at PMC–East in Pinehurst. Pinehurst Medical Clinic (PMC) is excited
to welcome Blair to the esteemed medical team. Her addition reaffirms PMC’s commitment to providing comprehensive and advanced care to its patients. She earned her master’s in nursing with a family nurse practitioner concentration from Chamberlain College in Chicago, IL, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Kent State University in Kent, OH.
Starting as a medical assistant during her junior and senior years of high school, she fell in love with healthcare. Eager to learn more and have the opportunity to help others, she pursued a career as a Nurse Practitioner and now has over 14 years of clinical experience.
“It is a delight to welcome Sarah Blair, FNP, to our practice,” said her supervising physician, Dr. Michael Daley in a press release. “She shares our commitment to excellence in patient care and with her extensive experience, she will be a tremendous asset to our team and the community we serve.”
ACHIEVERS
Blair recognized the outstanding quality of care PMC provides to the community and said it greatly influenced her decision to join the team. Blair shared in a press release; “Pinehurst Medical Clinic goes above and beyond for the patients they serve, and I am proud to be a part of their team. My goals align with their mission statement to provide high-quality care and safety to many.”
As a native of Ohio, she moved to North Carolina last summer and looks forward to winters with less snow. Currently, outside of work, Blair is excited about building a home in the Sanford area and planning her wedding.
The physicians and healthcare team of professionals at Pinehurst Medical Clinic share a commitment to patient-centered care that is physician-led and utilizes the latest advances in medical technology.
Blair is one of the newest to join the more than 150 providers, 850+ employees across 16 locations that make up the Pinehurst Medical Clinic.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY NCACC
Cumberland County Board of Commissioners Chairman Glenn Adams accepted the awards on behalf of the County.
Blair
HOSPITALITY
BBQ pitted against each other
FIRST EVER SMITHFIELD CUP SETS THE STAGE FOR TWO BARBECUE TEAMS FROM NORTH AND SOUTH CAROLINA TO BATTLE FOR BEST BBQ RECOGNITION
The inaugural Smithfield Cup will take place this fall in historic Elizabethtown, pitting barbecue teams from North Carolina and South Carolina against each other in a battle of BBQ supremacy.
The new event will be staged on Sunday, Oct. 13 on the grounds of the Cape Fear Distillery as a select group of pitmasters from the Carolinas will prepare pork samplings from title sponsor Smithfield Foods, which operates the world’s largest pork processing plant in the world in nearby Tar Heel.
In addition, the Town of Elizabethtown is one of several presenting sponsors of this unique culinary experience.
“It’s exciting to celebrate one of our area’s agricultural industries with a true culinary experience for everyone to enjoy,” said Elizabethtown Mayor Sylvia Campbell in a press release. “We know this event will attract more people to see our beautiful small town, shop our downtown and discover what southern hospitality is all about.”
The two barbecue teams will consist of two professional pitmasters and two amateurs. The North Carolina pros are Lewis Donald of Sweet Lew’s BBQ in Charlotte, N.C., and Jake Wood of Lawrence Barbecue in Durham, N.C. The South Carolina pros are Dylan Cooke of Fork Grove Barbecue in Anderson, S.C. and Robbie Robinson from City Limits Barbeque in Columbia, S.C.
“We’re thrilled to open our doors to Elizabethtown and share our rich heritage through one of our top attractions,” added Elizabethtown Town Manager Dane Rideout in
It’s exciting to celebrate one of our area’s agricultural industries with a true culinary experience for everyone to enjoy.”
— Sylvia Campbell, Elizabethtown Mayor “
Barbecue enthusiasts are invited to the inaugural Smithfield Cup on Oct. 13. Two teams, one from South Carolina and one from North Carolina, will put their skills to the test to see who gets to take home the trophy.
a press release. “What better way to celebrate than with a showdown between BBQ masters from North Carolina and South Carolina? No matter who claims victory, attendees are in for a mouthwatering experience.”
Patrons to the event will be provided samples of chopped barbecue, ribs and more, along with one
southern side dish from each team, and then cast their People’s Choice vote for the best BBQ. The winning team will be awarded the Smithfield Cup and display the trophy for one year in that winning state.
The barbecue competition will also feature live music and entertainment, a vintage car display, a Kids Zone with petting zoo, pre-
senting sponsor Carolina CoPacking barbecue sauce and rub vendor sampling and competition, along with a selection of local craft beer, wine and spirits.
Cape Fear Distillery, one of the event’s presenting sponsors, is now one of North Carolina’s leading distilleries, with 13 different liquor options in addition to an array of wine selections.
Elizabethtown, with a charming downtown area, celebrated its 250th anniversary in 2023. The Bladen County town is located about an hour northwest of Wilmington and 35 miles south of Fayetteville and 20 minutes from Lumberton.
The Smithfield Cup will be operated by Tarheel Festivals, a full-service event management and production company headquartered in Pinehurst, with over 40 years of producing signature events.
Tarheel Festivals also stage the fourth annual Pinehurst Barbecue Festival which took place over Labor Day weekend in the Village of Pinehurst.
The Smithfield Cup is scheduled for noon-5 p.m., with general admission tickets available for $20. A limited amount of VIP Early Bird tickets are available for $40. That VIP experience gets patrons into the event at 11 a.m. (one hour before the General Admission ticket to beat the crowds) and allows for a second sampling of each of the team’s offerings.
Active and retired military tickets are $15 and kids 14 and under are admitted free.
For tickets to the Smithfield Cup and additional information log on to www. smithfieldcup.com.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY TOWN OF ELIZABETHTOWN
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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
The Renterz LLC
121 Buckingham Ave
Fayetteville Agent: Josie Spradling
GSE Flooring LLC
7335 Van Grayson Loop
Fayetteville Agent: Miguel Angel Dominguez Argueta
CarTech Enterprises LLC
429 Person St. Suite 1-A
Fayetteville Agent: BossLady
Corporate Services LLC
ALL AMERICAN AUTO GLASS LLC
4928 US Highway 301 S # 192
Hope Mills
Agent: Andrew Victor
Lighthouse Cove Services Inc
707 Murchison Road Suite 5
Fayetteville Agent: Brenda McNair
A Grace Encoun-
Demar Endevores LLC
5612 Tahoe Court
Fayetteville Agent: Waldemar Cosme
FRIENDS CATERING GROUP LLC 253 WESTWOOD SHOPPING CTR
ter LLC
109 Lamb Street
Fayetteville Agent: Robert W Bankhead
Agape Estates LLC
5075 Morganton Road STE 10C1403
Fayetteville Agent: Olympus Tax Solutions LLC
Dependable Janitorial Associates LLC
910 Person Street Ste D
Fayetteville Agent: Toranique Adams
Stroup Gun Company LLC 5626 Little Lake Drive
Hope Mills Agent: Christopher Stroup
ADVANCING THE KINGDOM INC.
2904 NORTHBANK ST
Fayetteville Agent: DEBORAH WALLACE Combat Woodworks LLC 19 Baltic Cir For t Liberty Agent: Maira Angelica Sias
Cuisine LLC
500 Saint Thomas Road
Fayetteville Agent: Patricia Anderson
G & E Home Rentals LLC
3032 Branscombe Rd
Fayetteville Agent: MAKALLAH RIDEN
Lichita Solutions INC
7711 S. Raeford Rd Suite 102-199
Fayetteville Agent: Mind Creation Vision And Solution LLC
B. Fly LLC 6869 Brasswood Drive
Fayetteville Agent: Asia Williamson
Velez Renovations LLC 1623 Eureka Ave
Fayetteville Agent: Carlos J Velez
Exspress Cleaning LLC 2504 Raeford Rd suite 212
Fayetteville Agent: Christopher R Mclean
HumbleWombs
Birth and Wellness LLC 3412 Park Hill Road
Fayetteville Agent: Toni Anthony
Flash Jamaican
1000 Har vest Grove Ct.
Hope Mills Agent: Kenneth Eugene Miley
7 Hills Investments LLC
150 N. McPherson Church Road Ste B
Fayetteville Agent: anthony nguyen
Dragonfly Mobile Oil Change LLC 6385 Bingham Place
Fayetteville Agent: Piyachat Hirunadulvit
Invigorate Wellness NC PLLC 662 Amusement Drive
Hope Mills Agent: Dani Ann Haveron
ADG Investors LLC
423 W. Summerchase Dr. Fayetteville Agent: Dwight DeWayne Grayer Sr.
Jacob's Line Construction LLC 3316 Auckland Ct
Fayetteville Agent: Jacob Elliott Gavia
Patriot Realty Group LLC 2929 EASTOVER NORTH DR
Eastover Agent: Jessica Erin Deshotel
Longtab Solutions LLC
Lane Wade Agent: William Sylas Terricciano
Property Revival Ventures LLC
429 Person St.
Suite 1-A
Fayetteville Agent: George D. Regan Jr.
Cilla Groups Project LLC
4808 Japonica Dr. Fayetteville Agent: Nicol Maldonado
Fountain Transport Services LLC
412 St Thomas Rd
Fayetteville Agent: KEVIN ANTONIO FOUNTAIN II
SALMERON CLEANING LLC
3595 GAZELLA CIR
Fayetteville Agent: MIGUEL A SALMERON DIAZ
K P Hotel LLC 521 Ramsey St Fayetteville Agent: Udaysinh Parmar
Strategic Innovations Enterprise Corporation Inc 201 Oates Dr. Fayetteville Agent: Stephen Ray Maynor Sr.
DEFENSE ALLIANCE OF NORTH CAROLINA VOTES TO DISCONTINUE ITS OPERATIONS AND DISSOLVE ORGANIZATION
The Defense Alliance of North Carolina (DANC), a novel non-profit trade association focused on improving the defense-related business environment for North Carolina companies, has come to the difficult conclusion that it is no longer able to support this critical aspect of the state’s economic growth. The Alliance’s Board voted in early August to discontinue its operations and dissolve the organization.
Recent challenges with funding and membership have made continuing DANC’s mission a tough proposition.
“Resources are key to continuing our efforts and we have not been able to get ahead of the curve since COVID,” said retired U.S. Marine Corps Lieutenant General, Mark Brilakis, DANC Board Chair in a press release. “Much of our success was predicated on bringing our members together to network and expand their knowledge of potential opportunities in the state. After going virtual it has proved to be more difficult to regain our momentum than anyone could have imagined.”
The Defense Alliance of North Carolina was created in August 2019 when the Boards of the North Carolina Military Foundation (NCMF) and the North Carolina
Resources are key to continuing our efforts and we have not been able to get ahead of the curve since COVID.”
—
Following challenges with funding and membership, DANC has made the
dissolve the organization.
Defense Business association (NCDBA) agreed to merge.
The North Carolina Military Foundation (NCMF), founded in 2006, was a state-wide, non-partisan, privately funded economic development group comprised of distinguished military retirees and some of the state’s preeminent corporate citizens. NCMF led high-impact strategic growth initiatives and positioned NC’s leaders to preserve and grow the state’s defense economy.
The Defense Business Association (NCDBA) was founded as a professional trade association of businesses with interests in military contracting, government affairs and supporting the state’s military installations. NCDBA provided networking opportunities and connections to promote defense related business within the state of North Carolina. It has hosted numerous events across
the state lead by volunteer members since 2009.
“It is with heavy hearts that we move forward with this dissolution,” said Tammy Everett, DANC Executive Director in a press release. “It has been very rewarding for all of us to passionately support North Carolina businesses and align them with defense-related opportunities. We are immensely grateful for the dedication of our volunteers, our members, the trust placed in us by donors, and the meaningful partnerships established along this journey.”
“DANC has played a crucial role in directing more military funding to North Carolina, which has always been central to our mission. Although DANC is dissolving, the impact of our work will endure for many years. I am grateful to our Executive Director, Tammy Everett, as well as to my fellow board members and corporate sponsors, who have been instrumental in our sustained success,” said K2’s CEO Lane Kjellsen, DANC President in a press release. “I am proud of the
long-standing relationship K2 Solutions Inc., former CFO Jim Lynch and I have had with the Defense Alliance of NC and the contributions we’ve made to the military community through this organization.”
The last day of operations for the Defense Alliance of North Carolina was on Aug. 30, 2024.
“This was a very difficult decision and not one the board took lightly. The DANC, its predecessors and member organizations, are incredibly proud of their accomplishments. Because of DANC’s support of the state’s defense of the Base Realignment and Closure 2005-2011, the Secretary of Military and Veterans Affairs in 2015 and the adoption of the North Carolina Military Business Center in 2005, the current and former DANC members can look back on their history with satisfaction. They have achieved impactful results in the state supporting our military bases, our Veterans and their families,” concluded Brilakis.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY DANC
difficult decision to discontinue its operations and
Mark Brilakis, Retired U.S. Marine Corps Lieutenant General, DANC Board Chair
RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE
Double the developments
CAVINESS & CATES COMMUNITIES SHARE THEIR PLANS FOR DEVELOPING LONG ANTICIPATED RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOODS IN HOPE MILLS
The Town of Hope Mills, NC can expect to see a lot of construction underway, very soon. Along with the incoming Wawa Travel Center (cover story), and the addition of Dirtbag Plaza announced to be joining the Dirtbag Ales Taproom campus, two new residential developments will soon be added to the Hope Mills and Grays Creek landscape.
Local developer Caviness & Cates Communities is developing 80 acres off of Corporation Drive and Chickenfoot Road in Hope Mills, NC. Currently named Eagle Cove, the new subdivision will include 46 two-car and single car garage townhomes and 203 single family lots.
Owner of Caviness & Cates Communities, Chris Cates, shared that the project has just begun and is still in its early stages of development and planning.
“We haven't determined our amenities yet, but we plan on having a recreational area with picnic areas, covered shelters, firepits, a dog park and possibly some pickleball. We’ll figure out, once we get the open spaces identified, where we’re going to put everything,” shared Cates.
“We’re just now starting to clear [the area]. We're going to do all 46 townhomes in the first phase, along with 62 single fam ily lots.”
While it’s still too early in the development process for pricing on the properties to be set, the company hopes to be able to begin construction in summer of 2025.
Cates also shared that Hope Mills based Autry Grading, Inc. has been contracted to do the site work.
Caviness & Cates has been developing in Hope Mills for a number of years with projects such as The Gardens at Cypress Lakes Village and The Meadows at Roslin Farms West under their belt.
“We’ve always been attracted to this area. Now you have quick access back to I-95 and with the expressway pretty much two miles to the south, you can get to that and it’s pretty much a straight shot to Fort Liberty. It’s a growing area. We’ve been in this area for a long
“
We've always been attracted to this area. Now you have quick access back to I-95...We’ve been in this area for a long time building, so when we had a chance to get this property, we were really excited.”
—
Chris Cates, Owner, Caviness & Cates Communities
time building, so when we had a chance to get this property, we were really excited,” shared Cates.
Further down into the Gray’s Creek area, another housing option has also broken ground and is in its early stages of development.
Caviness & Cates is also working on a 264 unit apartment complex right beside Grays Creek High School off of Celebration Drive.
“It will be a mix of one, two and three bedroom units. Like we do with most of our communities, we’ll have a pool, a clubhouse with a bathhouse, a picnic shelter and a lot of open space. Connectivity is really important to us when it comes to apartments. You can see on our site plan we like to connect our buildings with open spaces,” shared Cates. “We’ve owned this property
CAVINESS & CATES COMMUNITIES
Above: Local developer Caviness & Cates Communities is developing 80 acres off of Corporation Drive and Chickenfoot Road in Hope Mills, NC.
Left: They are also working on a 264 unit apartment complex right beside Grays Creek High School off of Celebration Drive.
for a long time, maybe close to 15 years, just kind of waiting on this, and we feel like now is the time.”
Learn more about Caviness & Cates Communities, their current projects and current home design options online at www.cavinessandcates.com.
