Images Harnett County: 2011

2011 | imagesharnettcounty.com ®

What’s Online Get a bird’s eye view of Harnett County with a quick video from the sky.

harnett county, north carolina

MOVE IT, MOVE IT Recreation options are new and improved

SECURE AND SAFEGUARD Defense, protection companies move in

Home Improvement Downtowns revamp to boost appeal Sponsored by the Harnett County Chambers of Commerce

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HARNETT County Schools Mission Statement: The mission of Harnett County Schools is to educate students in a safe environment empowering them to focus on lifelong learning, responsible citizenship and global awareness.

FaSt FactS SchoolS (2010-2011) Total Number of Schools Elementary Schools . . . .

Middle Schools . . . . . .

High Schools . . . . . . . .

Alternative Schools . . . .

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27 17 .5 .4 . 1

EnrollMEnt (2010-2011 3rd Mo.) Total Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Elementary (K-5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Middle (6-8) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

High (9-12) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . .

19,444 . 9,235 . 4,469 . 5,373

GraduatES (2010) Total Graduates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,057 aBcS rEcoGnition (2009) Expected Growth/Gain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 High Growth/Gain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Safe Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100% Ethnic diStriBution (2009-2010 5th Mo.) African American . . . . .

Asian . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Caucasian . . . . . . . . . .

Hispanic . . . . . . . . . . .

Multi-Racial . . . . . . . . .

Native American . . . . . .

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. 26.9% . 0.6% 53.6% . 12.9% . 6.3% . 1.0%

tranSportation (Fall 2009) Total Number of Buses . . . . . . . . .

Students Transported Daily . . . . . .

Miles Traveled Daily . . . . . . . . . .

Number of Routes . . . . . . . . . . . .

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. . 238 . 11,775 . 14,021 . . 272

Food SErvicE (2008-2009 School yEar avEraGE) Student Breakfasts Served Daily . . . . . . . 5,371 Student Lunches Served Daily . . . . . . . . 12,569 Per Pupil Expenditures for 2009 . . . . . . . $1,150 EMployEES (octoBEr 2008) Number of Teachers . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Number of Administrators . . . . . . . . . .

National Board-Certified Teachers (2008) Doctoral Degree Employees . . . . . . . . .

State Funded Employees . . . . . . . . . . .

Federal Funded Employees . . . . . . . . . .

Local Funded Employees . . . . . . . . . . .

Total HCS Employees . . . . . . . . . . . . .

. . . . . . . .

. 1,241 . . 85 . . 72 . . .7 1,600 . 380 . 253 2,233

• All middle and high schools accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• Collaborations with Campbell University, Central Carolina Community College and Fayetteville Technical Community College.

• One of the first counties in the state to have 100% participation in crisis management program, initiated by State Attorney General, Roy Cooper.

• Partnerships with businesses and industry county wide and the Harnett County Business Education Partnership.

• Active member of the Base Realignment and Closure Commission (BRAC) Regional Task Force as we continue to meet the needs of incoming military families and their children.

Above: Michelle Cline, Harnett County Schools Teacher of the Year, with some of her sixth grade students at Western Hamett Middle School.

For over a century and a half, the Harnett County School System has been educating its students and preparing them for productive and successful futures. We are proud of our sense of community and the deep-rooted traditions and principles for which the school system was founded. Although we continue to grow at a rapid pace, we still find a strong sense of community and pride in our schools today.

The tremendous growth has made it necessary to have an aggressive and ongoing building plan in place to add new school sites and continue the updating process of some of the older facilities. Much of the growth in the western part of the county can be attributed to the influx of military families moving to our area through the Base Realignment and Closure Commission (BRAC). We face the challenge of having enough space in schools and classrooms to house all of our students and the system has seen a steady increase of pupils each year. We expect between 500-600 new students this year alone – bringing our student population to over 20,000.

In the past nine years, Harnett County Schools has added seven new facilities, including four elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school. Each of these sites was built to address the needs of students today with extensive instructional space, state-of-the-art technology and lab classrooms, and adequate space to ensure safety and security for students, teachers and staff.

There have also been substantial updates and additions to five existing elementary schools and one high school to provide updated technology, more classroom space, larger media centers, cafeterias and computer labs. All of these projects, coupled with hard working custodians and maintenance staff members, have produced clean, orderly, and safe schools with neat and inviting grounds that serve our students well.

Long-range construction plans also include another elementary school, middle school and high school.

Updates in facilities continue to provide even better learning environments for our children and quality spaces for our teachers. Community support has provided mentors, resources, funding and over 80,000 volunteer hours with children in our schools.

The two together have provided a winning combination to help our team as they strive to provide a future-ready learning experience that will prepare our students to be 21st-Century leaders!

Visit us online at www.harnett.k12.nc.us

Welcome Home to Harnett County! Experience …

Southern hospitality at its best.

Peaceful and safe living.

The history and heritage that makes us proud to be here.

Convenience of big-city amenities without all the traffic and stress.

Quality of life – from education to recreation.

“We stand as the voice of business.

We support our members’ success.

We champion community prosperity.”

127 S. McKinley St. P.O. Box 667 Coats, NC 27521 (910) 897-6213 E-mail: chamber@coatschamber.com www.coatschamber.com

Home of the 98th Annual Coats Farmer’s Day Celebration!

Erwin Chamber of Commerce Erwin, North Carolina

Pride in Our Past – Hope in Our Future

Ideally located between Fayetteville-Fort Bragg and Raleigh-Durham.

Proud Hometown of Adrienne Core, Miss North Carolina 2010

Dunn offers affordable living, friendly people and great quality of life.

We invite you to experience our Southern charm, great hospitality and rich history.

Find the perfect place for your home or business.

Welcome Home to Dunn!

209 W. Divine St. • P.O. Box 548 • Dunn, NC 28335 (910) 892-4113

www.dunnchamber.com

E-mail: contact@erwinchamber.org • www.erwinchamber.org Cape Fear River Trail Denim Days Celebration Dunn Erwin Trail (910) 897-7300

100 W. F St. P.O. Box 655 Erwin, NC 28339 (910) 897-5543 Fax

24 W. Front St. P.O. Box 967 Lillington, NC 27546 (910) 893-3751 Home of the County Seat Located on the scenic Cape Fear River

E-mail: contact@lillingtonchamber.org www.lillingtonchamber.org

Need a place to host a meeting or a special event? Call on us! We offer flexible space for up to 80 people, full audiovisual support and full catering services.

Complimentary Breakfast • FREE Wireless Internet FREE Local Calls • Business Center • Outdoor Pool Exercise Room • Expanded Cable/HBO 100% Hampton Guarantee Check Out Our Specials …

Golf Packages for Four Beautiful Courses Romance Package to Pamper Yourself and the One You Love Multiple Day Golf Specials

Hampton Inn – Dunn, NC

Enjoy the Hampton Experience While Visiting Harnett County We Love Having You Here!

100 Jesse Tart Circle Dunn, NC 28334 (910) 892-4333 www.dunn.hamptoninn.com

Three Day/Two Night Mini Vacation

2011 edition | volume 4 速

Harnett County, North Carolina

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10 move it, move it Recreation options are new and improved.

14 home improvement Downtowns revamp to boost appeal.

20 secure and Safeguard Defense, protection companies move in.

d e pa r tm e nt s 6 Almanac 16 Image Gallery 22 Biz Briefs 24 Economic Profile 29 Health & Wellness 30 Arts & Culture 32 Sports & Recreation 35 Education 36 Local Flavor 39 Community Profile 40 Through the Lens

on the cover Photo by Todd Bennett Kivett Hall at Campbell University

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All or part of this magazine is printed on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.

Please recycle this magazine

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®

Your child deserves to learn.

Whether gifted, hurting or disadvantaged, your child deserves to learn. There is a school where both gifted and at-risk students can get personal attention … side by side in the same room … and both will excel.

No pressure, boredom or embarrassment for the student.

Digital Edition

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IMPROVEMENT HARNETT COUNTY CITIES REVAMP DOWNTOWNS, IMPROVE INFRASTRUCTURE TO BOOST APPEAL

STORY BY JOE MORRIS PHOTOGRAPHY BY TODD BENNETT

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ant to walk from one end of Angier to another? Feel like doing some shopping in Dunn? How about a nice workout in Lillington, or maybe getting schooled on productivity by a third grader?

All that and more is on tap as Harnett County’s towns revitalize, renovate and add to their quality of life.

Angier Adds Sidewalks, Redoes Façades In Angier, several major projects are literally tying the city together.

New drainage, curbs, sidewalks, lampposts and other enhancements are now in place on Broad Street through downtown and also along Highway 55. Similar upgrades are under way at the new Angier Elementary School, and renovations and modifications to Jack Marley Park will include a multipurpose field, disc golf course, walking trails and more.

“We are connecting all these areas, making a more walkable, safe community,” says Coley Price, Angier town manager. “We also have given grants for façade improvements to our downtown businesses, and so far have had 18 businesses put up new paint, signage and awnings. It’s a real breath of fresh air.”

Dunn Plans Major Downtown Development The shops in downtown Dunn also are taking advantage of an improvement program, one of many major developments being overseen by the Dunn Downtown Development Corporation, says Dal Snipes, chairman.

“We instigated a municipal tax district for downtown three years ago, and have been keeping that money back so we can participate with the city on a planned $3 million streetscape improvement program,” Snipes says.

“The city has gone through a major water and sewer upgrade, and now we hope to bury power lines, add new sidewalks and more.”

The city and development board have applied for USDA funding, but will work with private businesses and other partners to cover any shortfall.

“With the remodeling, it’s just remarkable how gorgeous some of these buildings are. We have a beautiful downtown and everyone is on board,” Snipes says.

Lillington to Open Community Center in 2011 Over in Lillington, all eyes are on a new 10,100-square-foot, $2.3 million community center set to open in July

2011. The facility will have exercise space and rooms for technology, as well as arts and crafts, a fully functioning kitchen and meeting space for more than 200 people. The facility will also have smaller breakout rooms and some city offices.

“Our big emphasis with this was to improve our quality of life offerings,” says Tommy Burns, town manager.

“The building is on 13th Street, within walking distance of most of our neighborhoods. It’s something we’ve needed for a long time.”

Harnett Primary Rolls Out Leadership Program All this well-planned activity is being reflected by the area’s younger citizens as well. Harnett Primary has implemented The Leader In Me, a program to develop strong habits and skills to be successful. Spearheaded by Principal Sabrina Hendley, the program is already achieving remarkable results within a year of its rollout.

“Every child has the potential to be a leader,” Hendley says. “And they have just embraced it. In fact, I have some parents saying they are a little tired of these seven habits, because they’re being used against them! When we can start something at school and see kids take it home, it’s just fabulous.”

Clockwise from top: Frox, a boutique on East Broad Street in downtown Dunn; A neighborhood in Lillington within walking distance to the new community center; One of the new lampposts in downtown Angier

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Harnett Count y, North Carolina

What’s Online imagesharnettcounty.com

Project Manager mitch kline audience development director Lisa Battles Proofreading Manager Raven Petty Content Coordinator Jessica Walker Staff Writer Kevin Litwin Copy Editor Jill Wyatt Contributing writers Cary Estes, Joe Morris, Carson O’Shoney Media Technology Director Christina Carden Senior Graphic Designers Laura Gallagher, Jessica Manner, Janine Maryland, Kris Sexton, Vikki Williams Media Technology Analysts Chandra Bradshaw, lance Conzett, Michele Niccore, Marcus Snyder Photography Director Jeffrey S. Otto Senior Photographers Jeff Adkins, Brian McCord Staff Photographers Todd Bennett, Antony Boshier Web Content Manager John Hood Web project manager noy fongnaly Web Design Director Franco Scaramuzza Web designer ii richard stevens Web developer i Yamel Hall Web account manager lauren eubank Ad Production Manager Katie Middendorf Ad Traffic Assistants Krystin Lemmon, Patricia Moisan I.T. Director Yancey Bond I.T. support technician bryan foriest Regional Sales Manager Chris Sweeney Sales Support/Community, Business, Custom Rachael Goldsberry Senior Accountant Lisa Owens Accounts Payable Coordinator Maria McFarland Accounts Receivable Coordinator Diana Guzman Office Manager/Accounts Receivable Coordinator Shelly Miller Integrated Media Manager Margaret Rose Sales Support Manager Cindy Hall color imaging technician Alison Hunter Chairman Greg Thurman President/Publisher Bob Schwartzman Executive Vice President Ray Langen Senior V.P./Sales Todd Potter, Carla Thurman Senior V.P./Operations Casey Hester Senior V.P./Client Development Jeff Heefner Senior V.P./business Development scott templeton V.p./External Communications Teree Caruthers V.P./Custom Publishing Kim HOlmberg V.P./Visual Content Mark Forester V.P./Content Operations Natasha Lorens V.P./Sales Charles Fitzgibbon, Herb Harper, Jarek Swekosky Controller Chris Dudley Content Director/Travel Publications Susan Chappell Content Director/Business Publications Bill McMeekin Marketing Creative Director Keith Harris Distribution Director Gary Smith Executive Secretary Kristy Duncan Human Resources Manager Peggy Blake Receptionist Linda Bishop

Photos See more photos in our online photo gallery

2011 | IMAGESHARNETTCOUNTy.COM ®

What’s Online Get a bird’s eye view of Harnett County with a quick video from the sky.

HARNETT COUNTy, NORTH CAROlINA

Get the inside scoop from our photographers’ blog MOVE IT, MOVE IT Recreation options are new and improved

Images Harnett County is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the Harnett County Chambers of Commerce and their member businesses.

For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by e-mail at info@jnlcom.com.

For more information, contact: Dunn Area Chamber of Commerce 209 West Divine Street, Dunn, NC 28335 Phone: (910) 892-4113 • Fax: (910) 892-4071 www.dunnchamber.com Visit Images Harnett County online at imagesharnettcounty.com ©Copyright 2011 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent.

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Facts & Stats Dig deeper with in-depth data on industries, schools and more

SECURE AND SAFEGUARD Defense, protection companies move in

Home Improvement Downtowns revamp to boost appeal SpONSORED by THE HARNETT COUNTy CHAMbERS OF COMMERCE

Get a moving glimpse at favorite local places and attractions

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Almanac

Welcome to Harnett County An introduction to the area’s people, places and events

Historic Sundays If the mysteries of history intrigue you, check out the Coats Museum.

Located at 109 South McKinley Street, the museum is dedicated to preserving the history of this small community through interpretive exhibits, data banks, genealogies and a chronological history of the area. The museum is only open on Sunday afternoons and by appointment, and also keeps an ongoing record of significant events relevant to the history of Coats’ families.

Cold Sweat Ice Cream No need to scream: There are 90 different flavors available at Sunni Sky’s Homemade Ice Cream in Angier.

Perhaps the most interesting flavor is called Cold Sweat, which contains hot peppers and extracts. Cold Sweat was featured on ABC’s Good Morning America and the Food Network, and before he will serve someone a bowl or cone of Cold Sweat, owner Scott Wilson requires patrons to sign a waiver.

Besides the 90 flavors, Sunni Sky’s also serves sherbets, sorbets, no-sugar-with-cream selections, and no-fat-no-sugar flavors.

Market Watch Out of collard greens? Running low on potatoes and tomatoes?

West Produce is a third-generation farm that grows fruits and vegetables on 50 acres along Hayes Road in Spring Lake. The farm includes a market that is fully stocked with items such as sweet corn, tomatoes, squash, cucumbers, peppers, sweet potatoes and melons.

In September and October, West Produce hosts tours, pumpkin patches, hayrides and classes on American agriculture. The market and farm are open from April 15 to Thanksgiving.

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Fast Facts

What a Blessing Summerville Presbyterian Church and Cemetery is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is known for its beautiful interiors.

The church in Lillington was built in 1845-46, and has kept its original architectural design without alterations. Its style is Greek and Gothic Revival, and it is one of the most photographed landmarks in Harnett County.

The church’s cemetery contains the grave of a mysterious stranger who was found dead on the steps of the church in the early 1900s. Since that time, the doors of the church have never been locked.

Park it Here Rock on, Raven Rock State Park.

This outdoor destination in Harnett County is situated high above the Cape Fear River, and spans 4,667 acres. Activities here include camping, canoeing, fishing, picnicking and walking trails, and several education seminars and events are scheduled on a monthly basis by park officials. Raven Rock is known for its wildflowers and pine forestry. It’s also home to reptiles and amphibians like salamanders, snakes and lizards.

There are several species of birds along with wild animals such as beavers, muskrats and raccoons that visitors routinely see. The park is located nine miles west of Lillington and 20 miles east of Sanford, off US Highway 421.

n Besides Dunn, the other towns in Harnett County are Angier, Coats, Erwin and Lillington, which is the county seat.

Unincorporated communities include Anderson Creek, Buies Creek and Johnsonville. n The Dunn Farmers Market is open every Saturday from May through October, and sells a variety of produce in addition to plants and crafts. n The Erwin History Museum documents the history of the small town with old photographs and artifacts. n The 5.3-mile Dunn-Erwin Rail Trail is popular with outdoor enthusiasts who like to walk, bike and hike. n There are 27 schools in the Harnett County Schools system. The newest one, Overhills Elementary School, opened in fall 2009. n Lillington is home to one of the newest courthouses in the country, having opened in 2003 to replace an old, cramped building. n Coats is the home of the oldest farm day festival in the Southeast, the Coats Farmers Day, which was established in 1912.

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J.E. WOMBLE & SONS 300 N. 10th St. • Lillington, NC 27546 • (910) 893-2289 • (910) 893-2702 Fax womblerealty@charter.net • www.womblerealtync.com • www.lillingtonrentals.com Our company has been servicing the area real estate needs for over 20 years.

We offer a full range of service which includes: sales of new and existing homes; land sales; sales of commercial real estate; apartment or home rentals; and property management.

We look forward to serving you in any real estate need.

The righT ageNT makeS aLL The diFFereNCe iN The WOrLd.

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Harnett County At A Glance POPULATION (2009 Estimate) Harnett County: 115,761 Dunn: 10,173 LOCATION Harnett County is in central North Carolina, near the junction of interstates 40 and 95.

On With the Show The downtown Dunn district has been undergoing plenty of revitalization in recent years, and a big project recently completed was the renovation of Stewart Theatre.

The historic landmark on North Wilson Avenue has undergone extensive work and occasionally presents movies on its one big screen.

In addition, Stewart Theatre serves as home to Harnett Regional Theatre, a performing arts troupe that puts on five productions each year. Their plays include musicals, dramas, comedies and documentaries.

BEGINNINGS The county was officially established in 1855 and named for Revolutionary War patriot Cornelius Harnett.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Dunn Area Chamber of Commerce 209 W. Divine St., Dunn, NC 28335 Phone: (910) 892-4113, Fax: (910) 892-4071 www.dunnchamber.com

Harnett County

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Wake W ke For k Fo ore or o rrest re

Chapel ha ape Hill Raleigh Ralei Ra ale a eigh 210 10

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Lillington

HARNE T T

Coats Erwin

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What’s Online Take a virtual tour of Harnett County, courtesy of our award-winning photographers, at imagesharnettcounty.com.

You’re Kidding Have a blast, kids – and parents.

Kid Blast Family Fun Zone is a 19,000-square-foot indoor amusement destination in Angier. The facility includes giant slides, an obstacle course, a nine-hole miniature golf course, toddler town and a Circus City.

There is also a large laser tag arena equipped with ramps, platforms and decorated barrels under black lights. Parents can either join their children in the fun zone areas or relax in a parents’ seating area to enjoy a cup of coffee while watching TV. Kid Blast is committed to child safety and uses a numbered bracelet method to ensure children leave with the same adult they came in with.

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Jeffrey S. OTTO

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Move It, Move It Harnett County has new and improved recreation options

Story By kevin litwin

Todd Bennett

A

dventures from mild to a bit wild are all part of the outdoor scene in Harnett County, especially since several recreation improvements have been made recently.

One of them is a $1 million renovation to Barbecue Creek Park in the western part of the county. The upgrade included installing top-grade lighting to baseball diamonds, softball fields and tennis courts, plus adding a multipurpose building and a playground.

What’s Online Go to imagesharnett county.com and click on “recreation” to read more about Harnett County’s sports and recreational activities.

Todd Bennett

Cape Fear River Park Also undergoing recent upgrades was Cape Fear River Trail Park, which now features a pedestrian trail along the river, as well as kayak access points.

“During the warm weather, the parking lot is full of cars and trucks with kayak and canoe trailers attached,” says Carl Davis, recreation program supervisor for Harnett County Parks

Clockwise from top: Bowlers participate in a league at Buffaloe Lanes in Erwin; Cape Fear River Trail Park; Cape Fear River at the Raven Rock State Park

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and Recreation. “Meanwhile, the county also has a master plan in place for Anderson Creek Park, with proposed walking trails, equestrian trails, a playground and mountain bike trails.”

Erwin In the town of Erwin, the name of Erwin Municipal Park was changed to Al Woodall Municipal Park in 2010.

Woodall played high school football in Erwin during the 1960s before

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ultimately quarterbacking Duke University and the New York Jets.

“We received a North Carolina state grant of $395,000 for Woodall Park, and the town matched it,” says Jeff Harmon, athletic program director for the town of Erwin. “Additions to the park include a walking trail around the whole facility, a skateboard park, new tennis courts, an additional multipurpose baseball/softball field, an additional soccer field and new scoreboards.”

Another recreation destination in Erwin is Buffaloe Lanes Bowling Center, located in a former grocery store that closed in the late 1990s and sat vacant for a decade. There is also the 5.3-mile Dunn-Erwin Rail-Trail that is popular with outdoor enthusiasts who like to walk, bike and hike.

“The crushed stone trail has trailheads located in both downtown Erwin and Dunn, with restaurants and shops at both ends,” Harmon says.

Dunn and Lillington Speaking of Dunn, the Dunn Recreation Center gives residents access to a gymnasium, exercise room, meeting facilities, racquetball courts and tennis courts. In Lillington, a new community and recreation center is being constructed to feature a fitness center, gymnasium and craft rooms.

Lillington is also home to Raven Rock State Park, which, at 5,000 acres, is the area’s biggest and best-known

park. The park, by the Cape Fear River, attracts more than 12 million visitors a year for hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking and camping.

Angier The town of Angier recently tackled a $1.4 million improvement project at Jack Marley Park, with upgrades that included a lighted walking trail, disc golf course, sand volleyball court, batting cages, two new playgrounds and a skateboard park.

“There is also new signage throughout the entire facility, and we redid the entrance area,” says Derek McLean, Angier parks and recreation director.

“It’s quite an amazing recreation spot for a town of 4,300 residents.”

Clockwise from left: Coble Water Ski & Wakeboard Camp; A new community center is under construction in Lillington; Dunn Recreation Center

The Wilder Side Harnett County is known for outdoor adventure, and some places go beyond hiking and biking:

Black River Paintball Black River Paintball in Angier is a 55-acre field divided into seven paintball courses. It is open Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. www.brpaintball.com

Carolina Skate Land Carolina Skate Land in Dunn features family nights on Thursdays, TGIF roller skating on Friday evenings and three separate open skating sessions on Saturdays. www.carolinaskateland.com

Coble Water Ski & Wakeboard Camp Coble Water Ski in Lillington offers private lessons on lakes, as well as all-inclusive overnight camps. Children, adults, families, college skiers and groups are welcome. www.cobleskischool.com

Noah’s Landing This non-profit nature center is home to a variety of rare and exotic animals. Visitors are treated to many close encounters and educational opportunities. There is also a mobile nature center that brings animals to local schools and community groups. ww.noahslanding2x2.com

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Home Improvement Harnett County cities revamp downtowns, improve infrastructure to boost appeal

Story By Joe Morris Photography By todd bennett

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ant to walk from one end of Angier to another? Feel like doing some shopping in Dunn? How about a nice workout in Lillington, or maybe getting schooled on productivity by a third grader?

All that and more is on tap as Harnett County’s towns revitalize, renovate and add to their quality of life.

Angier Adds Sidewalks, Redoes Façades In Angier, several major projects are literally tying the city together.

New drainage, curbs, sidewalks, lampposts and other enhancements are now in place on Broad Street through downtown and also along Highway 55. Similar upgrades are under way at the new Angier Elementary School, and renovations and modifications to Jack Marley Park will include a multipurpose field, disc golf course, walking trails and more.

“We are connecting all these areas, making a more walkable, safe community,” says Coley Price, Angier town manager. “We also have given grants for façade improvements to our downtown businesses, and so far have had 18 businesses put up new paint, signage and awnings. It’s a real breath of fresh air.”

Dunn Plans Major Downtown Development The shops in downtown Dunn also are taking advantage of an improvement program, one of many major developments being overseen by the Dunn Downtown Development Corporation, says Dal Snipes, chairman.

“We instigated a municipal tax district for downtown three years ago, and have been keeping that money back so we can participate with the city on a planned $3 million streetscape improvement program,” Snipes says.

“The city has gone through a major water and sewer upgrade, and now we hope to bury power lines, add new sidewalks and more.”

The city and development board have applied for USDA funding, but will work with private businesses and other partners to cover any shortfall.

“With the remodeling, it’s just remarkable how gorgeous some of these buildings are. We have a beautiful downtown and everyone is on board,” Snipes says.

Lillington to Open Community Center in 2011 Over in Lillington, all eyes are on a new 10,100-square-foot, $2.3 million community center set to open in July

2011. The facility will have exercise space and rooms for technology, as well as arts and crafts, a fully functioning kitchen and meeting space for more than 200 people. The facility will also have smaller breakout rooms and some city offices.

“Our big emphasis with this was to improve our quality of life offerings,” says Tommy Burns, town manager.

“The building is on 13th Street, within walking distance of most of our neighborhoods. It’s something we’ve needed for a long time.”

Harnett Primary Rolls Out Leadership Program All this well-planned activity is being reflected by the area’s younger citizens as well. Harnett Primary has implemented The Leader In Me, a program to develop strong habits and skills to be successful. Spearheaded by Principal Sabrina Hendley, the program is already achieving remarkable results within a year of its rollout.

“Every child has the potential to be a leader,” Hendley says. “And they have just embraced it. In fact, I have some parents saying they are a little tired of these seven habits, because they’re being used against them! When we can start something at school and see kids take it home, it’s just fabulous.”

Clockwise from top: Frox, a boutique on East Broad Street in downtown Dunn; A neighborhood in Lillington within walking distance to the new community center; One of the new lampposts in downtown Angier

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Historic house in Dunn Photo by Todd Bennett

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Image Gallery

Anderson Creek Golf Club Photo by Jeffrey S. Otto

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Image Gallery

Cape Fear River in Erwin Photo by Todd Bennett

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&

Secure Safeguard County attracts defense and protection companies

Story By Kevin Litwin

R

uss Scales is pleased that Harnett County has a talented workforce of military-trained, college-educated and manufacturingexperienced personnel.

For that reason and many others, the president of American Physical Security Group in Lillington says that the numerous defense and protection companies that operate in Harnett County continue to thrive even in difficult economic times.

“Harnett County is uniquely situated at the midpoint between Fort Bragg and the Research Triangle Park, and it offers easy access to Raleigh-Durham International Airport, as well as the regional airport in Fayetteville, and the ports at Wilmington and Morehead City,” Scales says.

What Does APSG Do? American Physical Security Group produces a complete line of antiram vehicle barriers, and also manufactures forced entry, ballistic-resistant and blast mitigation doors, louvers, security stations and windows that are used for government, commercial and

architectural applications. The company’s product installations are featured in numerous major commercial, financial and industrial centers, as well as military bases and embassies throughout the world.

Meanwhile, Harnett County is also home to a number of other defense and protection companies: ATG Access Inc. ATG Access Inc. is an engineering and manufacturing company in Lillington whose product line mostly involves bollards, which are small and strong vertical posts installed in front of buildings for security purposes.

Boon Edam Boon Edam has a manufacturing facility in Lillington that produces items such as manual and automatic revolving doors, security doors and portals, turnstiles and more.

Esterline Defense Technologies Esterline Defense Technologies in Lillington manufactures a variety of defense industry products that include infrared decoy flares,

torpedo decoy systems, radar countermeasure equipment and anti ship-missile countermeasures.

“Because of the evolving nature of countermeasures, Esterline is in constant communication with the Armed Forces to address any new threat technology,” says Jim Finnegan, vice president of operations. “And, we enjoy doing business in Harnett County because this area offers reasonable tax rates and is central for shipping and receiving our raw materials and end product.”

Ruhl Tech Engineering Owner Andrew Ruhland is a trained tool and die maker with a military background, and Ruhl Tech Engineering in Spring Lake designs and manufactures a variety of defense and protection items.

Saab Barracuda LLC Saab Barracuda supplies America’s war fighters with the most advanced camouflage and heat-reduction products. All items manufactured at its Lillington plant are designed for concealment and deception purposes to aid all branches of the U.S. military.

From top left: Saab Barracuda LLC; Lillington’s Boon Edam created these revolving doors (top right) located in Trenton, New Jersey, as well as the turnstiles shown here (bottom) that are found in London.

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Biz Briefs

A sampling of businesses – large and small – that helps define Harnett County’s strong and well-balanced economic climate.

Scorecard Business At A Glance

$560 million Annual retail sales

$5,778 Retail sales per capita

$49 million Annual hotel and food sales

5,674 Total number of firms Source: U.S. Census QuickFacts

GARY A. HOUSE, CPA, P.A. Biz: Public accounting and tax firm Buzz: Assisting individuals and businesses with finances and taxes, this full-service firm serves Harnett County and the surrounding areas.

Gary A. House, CPA, P.A. ensures each client receives individual attention and offers income tax, accounting and payroll services. QuickBook consultations, aid and training sessions are available to the public, as well. www.ghousecpa.com 22

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KIDDE FIRE FIGHTING INC. Biz: UTC Fire and Security Company Buzz: Kidde Fire Fighting manufactures a variety of products, such as portable and rechargable extinguishers, as well as nozzles and rubber and plastic hoses. The company also supplies materials for airport crash rescue and layflat hose solutions for multiple fluid transfer applications, including municipal water and wastewater, agriculture, groundwater and more. www.kidde-fire.com

INDIGO ROOM Biz: Event venue Buzz: Hosting events such as weddings, receptions, meetings and parties, the Indigo Room opened in October 2010 and is housed in a building built in 1925, which was located near a denim mill.

The Indigo Room is named for the color blue used to make denim. The space can accommodate up to 212 individuals, and offers 20 tables that can seat 150 people. www.indigonc.com

JERNIGAN’S NURSERY & TRADING POST Biz: Garden and gift shop Buzz: Located in Dunn, Jernigan’s Nursery & Trading Post began as a small plant stand. The nursery is home to a variety of plants, including annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs and roses. Customers also enjoy Jernigan’s gift shop, which offers handbags, jewelry and many other items. www.jernigansnursery.com

Coats community building Biz: Event space and meeting area Buzz: The Coats Community Building was built in 1950 and has served many organizations. The Coats Area Chamber of Commerce moved into the building in 1989. The building is used for and by the citizens of Coats and is a very important asset to the community. Parts of the building can be rented for events. www.coatschamber.com

L.P .S. S

LEE PEST

OLUTIONS

Kenneth Lee, Owner

“The solution to your pest problems!”

Locally Owned & Operated • Over 40 Years of Experience “Quality Without Question”

608 N. Ellis Ave. Dunn, NC 28334

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economic profile Business climate Harnett County is a progressive business community with a dedi­cated workforce. It is part of the Research Triangle Regional Partnership and is close to the North Carolina Biotechnology Center.

Harnett Correctional Institution 381 employees

CSX Corp. Inc. (877) 744-7279 www.csx.com

Edwards Brothers, Inc. 280 employees

Norfolk & Southern Railway (404) 529-1591 www.nscorp.com

Wal-Mart 270 employees Carlie C’s IGA 185 employees SAAB Barracuda, LLC 167 employees

Taxes

6.75%

income

Total Sales Tax

$19,091

major employers

Per Capita Income

Harnett County Public Schools 2,221 employees

$41,996

Harnett County Government 887 employees Food Lion Distribution Center 758 employees

Average Annual Household Expenditure

Transportation

Campbell University 750 employees

Harnett Regional Jetport (910) 814-2740 www.harnett.org/airport

Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital 709 employees

HARTS (910) 814-4019 www.harnett.org/harts

Homes  Condos  Golf  lodGinG

Gated, Family Community

866.465.3568 125 Whispering Pines Dr. • Anderson Creek, NC 28390 info@andersoncreekclub.com www.andersoncreekclub.com

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Economic Resources Angier Area Chamber of Commerce (919) 639-2500 www.angierchamber.org Coats Chamber of Commerce (910) 897-6213 www.coatschamber.com Dunn Area Chamber of Commerce (910) 892-4113 www.dunnchamber.com Erwin Chamber of Commerce (910) 897-7300 www.erwinchamber.org Lillington Chamber of Commerce (910) 893-3751 www.lillingtonchamber.org

Health & Wellness

Get Healthy Here County grows with health-care options As Harnett County grows, so does its health care.

The region already offers comprehensive services in fields such as pain management, rehabilitation, pediatrics and women’s services. And recently the Harnett Health System was selected to receive a $25 million federal loan for the construction of a 50-bed acute care hospital and central campus in Lillington.

Neurology & Pain Management Center works with patients suffering from a variety of physical and neurological disorders, including arthritis, chronic headaches, sleep disorders, carpal tunnel, Alzheimer’s and memory loss. The center’s goal is to decrease pain through a treatment plan that is designed specifically for each individual patient following a thorough evaluation.

Total Body Therapy & Wellness At Total Body Therapy & Wellness, patients of all ages can receive professional therapeutic care intended to prevent injury, correct work-related injuries and post-surgery pain, and more. The facility’s sport-specific athletic training and weight-loss programs provide clients with customized exercise programs based on individual goals. Yoga classes, cold laser therapy, prenatal wellness, and nutritional consults and supplements also are offered.

Todd Bennett

Carolina Regional Radiology Imaging Center Doctors and nurses at Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital

Harnett Health System

Bob Etheridge says in announcing the loan for the project.

Science and technology laboratories and other educationrelated organizations will be part of the 128-acre Central Hospital Campus. The facility will enable Harnett County residents to have even better access to top specialists and the latest medical treatments. HHS officials say the number of physicians will increase in many areas.

“Access to quality health care is a critical issue in rural North Carolina, and the new Central Hospital Campus will increase quality health care and bring jobs to Harnett County,” U.S. Rep.

Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital

The locally owned, not-forprofit Harnett Health System also owns Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital in Dunn. The 101-bed facility is an area leader in cardiopulmonary, critical care, emergency services, outpatient and inpatient surgical services, medical imaging and digital mammography.

Neurology & Pain Management Center Lillington has two facilities that specialize in pain treatment. The

The Carolina Regional Radiology Imaging Center provides the latest in imaging technology, from MRI and CT scans to ultrasounds and mammography. The Angier facility is part of Fayettevillebased Carolina Regional Radiology, which is one of the largest radiology practices in North Carolina. Among the stateof-the-art equipment at the CRR Imaging Center is a computed radiology system that generates high-resolution images in approximately 40 seconds.

Instead of using standard X-ray film, images are formed digitally and can be output on a disk and shown on a high-resolution monitor. This allows for quicker interpretation and comparison by the radiologist, and shortens the patient’s testing time.

– Cary Estes i m ag e s h a r n e t t c o u n t y. c o m

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Arts & Culture

Photo Courtesy of Gregory Taylor Photography

See It All Here Arts and festivals are plentiful in Harnett County Harnett County has a vibrant arts scene and an array of annual festivals. From Dunn’s Touchstone Energy Cotton Festival to the Fourth of July extravaganza in Lillington, there’s plenty to celebrate year round.

Harnett County arts council The Harnett County Arts Council promotes area artists

frequent festivals.

with exhibits, receptions, dinners

Festivals, Events

and even a featured artist of the

The Touchstone Energy Cotton Festival, held each November in Dunn, celebrates one of the region’s most important crops

month. The organization works with visual, performing and literary artists, as well as

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organizations that preserve the county’s history. Heritage is also preserved in Harnett County’s

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with exhibitions of cotton being ginned and baled.

In recent years, Dunn also has been the site of a series of free nighttime street concerts dubbed Boogie on Broad. Held in the heart of downtown, the periodic event takes place in the spring and fall in order to take advantage of the ideal evening weather.

In September, the Angier Crepe Myrtle Festival offers a number of classic activities worthy of the old state fairs, such as square dancing and a hot-dog eating contest.

The Crepe Myrtle Festival used

Photo Courtesy of Gregory Taylor Photography

Clockwise from far left: A performance at the Harnett Regional Theatre; A work by Tonia Michno; Actors at the Harnett Regional Theatre; Crepe Myrtle Festival

to include a motorcycle show, but that part of the festival became so popular that it spun off into a separate entity held in June called the Angier Bike Fest.

One of the area’s oldest celebrations is the Farmer’s Day and Wagon Train Festival in Coats, which began more than 98 years ago as a way for farmers to celebrate after their crops had been harvested and sold. Other festivals include Erwin Denim Days, which honors the era when Harnett County was home to one of the largest Levi Strauss plants in the country.

Theaters and Live Performances Children in Harnett County quickly become accustomed to the cultural scene by taking part in Harnett Off Broadway, a festival that showcases the musical, dancing and artistic abilities of Harnett County School students. Months of preparation and practice culminate with performances and art showings over a two-weekend span in March.

The school district also holds an annual Very Special Arts Celebration that exposes students with disabilities to a variety of

performing and visual arts. Aspiring actors in Harnett County can take to the stage at the Harnett Regional Theatre in Dunn and the Heart of Harnett Playhouse in Lillington, where productions range from locally written plays to such Broadway smash hits as Beauty and the Beast.

And for those who prefer to look instead of participate, there are nearly a dozen museums in Harnett, including the Gourd Museum in the Angier Library, with hundreds of gourds from throughout the world on display.

– Cary Estes i m ag e s h a r n e t t c o u n t y. c o m

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Sports & Recreation

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photos by Jeffrey S. OTTO

Always Something To Do golf courses, parks, natural assets offer fun for all ages Harnett County may lack a major city – with a population of a little more than 10,000, Dunn is the county's largest – but it does not lack in things to do.

Visitors and residents have a variety of outdoor activities, from golf to horseback riding. Area parks provide an outlet for leisurely afternoons, while the Cape Fear River is a great place for paddling.

Golf

Todd Bennett

Golf is one of Harnett County's main attractions – and residents and county officials take pride in it.

It may not be as nationally known as its nearby neighbor Pinehurst, but avid golfers know that Harnett County is a great place to play affordable golf while surrounded by gorgeous scenery. The county boasts a total of eight courses that mix quality with affordability.

Included in the mix is Anderson Creek Golf Club, a course that was designed by 1997 PGA Championship winner Davis Love III and was named Best New Course of 2001 upon its opening

by North Carolina Magazine.

Keith Hills Country Club I and II are owned by local Campbell University, and the courses are ranked among the best in the state for their mix of challenging holes and fun playability. Pine Burr Golf Course, Carolina Lakes Golf Club,

Sandy Ridge Country Club and Chicora Golf Club can also be found in Harnett County.

Fun For All Ages The city of Dunn hosts the outdoor concert series Boogie on Broad, where families and children are welcome. For another fun family outing, parents and kids head to Duffie’s Exotic Bird Ranch, also in Dunn, which is home to more than 1,000 colorful live birds from all over the world.

Seniors in the area have plenty to do, with county-sponsored senior golf tournaments and bus tours in addition to the many community senior center’s educational programs, craft classes and more. Little league and municipal sports leagues are also offered throughout the county, giving younger kids and adults an opportunity to participate in team activities.

Parks & Water Recreation The Dunn-Erwin Trail was converted from old train tracks into a new destination for bikers, hikers and casual walkers. The trail stretches from downtown Erwin to downtown Dunn, with plenty of beautiful scenery on the way and shops surrounding the trailheads.

The 5,000-acre Raven Rock State Park attracts more than 12 million visitors per year, who come for a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, biking, paddling and camping. Anderson Creek Park and Jack Marley Park will soon add to the already numerous trails in Harnett County. The Cape Fear River Trail Park is a great place to access the Cape Fear River for kayaking and canoeing.

The river has a stretch of 56 miles set aside specifically for recreational water travel.

– Carson O’Shoney

From left: A kayaker travels down the Cape Fear River just outside of Lillington; Golf at Keith Hills Country Club; Raven Rock State Park attracts more than 12 million visitors each year

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Brookfield is an assisted living health-care community located in the heart of Harnett County, adjacent to the soon-to-be new Harnett Health Hospital. We live the three “Cs” – Compassion, Concern and Caring.

Services and amenities available include, but not limited to the following: • Personal Care Director monitors all resident’s care. All medications are administered by State Certified Medication Aides.

• Trained, experienced and certificated staff assists with personal care, such as dressing, grooming, bathing, eating, locomotion, toileting, walking, wheelchairs, etc.

• Additional in-home health-care services are available from Home Health for those who may require specialized care, such as physical and rehabilitation therapies, etc.

• Diets ordered by physician are supported, including therapeutic, pureed diets and others.

• Two in-house full-service beauty/barber shops staffed with licensed professionals.

• Backup generator, and state-of-the-art smoke and fire protection.

There are also 24 independent living apartments serving all ages behind Brookfield.

We are available to discuss your needs at any time. ~Joe & Janet Boone, Owners/Administrators

2041 NC 210 N. | Lillington, NC 27546 | (910) 893-8181 | (910) 893-3612 Fax brookfield@charter.net | www.brookfieldassisted.com

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Campbell University

Central Carolina Community College’s Small Business Center

photos by Todd Bennett

Education

Learning Made Easy Education in Harnett County prepares all students Beginning in elementary school and continuing after college, Harnett County provides education opportunities and advanced facilities that enable students to grow and succeed no matter their goals or needs.

Harnett County School System

Central Carolina Community College

Students in the Harnett County School System receive more than an education. No matter the student's interest or strength, they are taught in a safe environment and are prepared to be lifelong learners and responsible citizens. There are several programs that cater to any child's need, including an ESL program, a gifted program, exceptional children program, and career and technical education courses for high school students, to name a few. With 27 schools and a student population of 19,000, the system also maintains strong bonds with the military, local businesses and colleges providing community awareness and support. Due to the Base Realignment and Closure Commission, the area experiences steady growth, allowing the system to expand and offer students updated facilities and new technology.

There is much to learn at Central Carolina Community College in Harnett County. The two-year public college, located in Lillington, offers students smaller classes, highly trained and skilled professionals, as well as a variety of credit and not-for-credit classes.

The 76,000-square-foot facility has classrooms, labs, offices, a full library and an Academic Assistance Center. This campus also houses the Harnett County Small Business Center. Students may acquire an associate degree in the arts or sciences that can also transfer to a four-year university.

For those who want to brush up on a subject or learn something new, the college offers non-credit studies in basic education, technical, vocational and more, where students may receive a certificate of completion, or they can receive a diploma or certificate through the Adult High School/ GED program.

Campbell University For more than 120 years Campbell University has been a reputable source for quality higher education. Located in Buies Creek, Campbell University is a private university that focuses on liberal arts, sciences, business, education and religion. Enrollment is approximately 9,400, with students not only from North Carolina but also from all 50 states and more than 40 countries. The faculty-tostudent ratio of 1:19 ensures that students have smaller class sizes and more personal attention, and only professors are allowed to teach classes. Offering approximately 100 majors and concentrations for undergraduate students and several for graduate students, the university provides an education experience that not only teaches the mind, but also allows students to grow in faith and experience.

The university works to prepare students for professional areas and also encourages them to lead purposeful lives. – Raven Petty i m ag e s h a r n e t t c o u n t y. c o m

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Local Flavor

Delicious Dining County offers a variety of food choices At its heart, Harnett County is farm country. For years farming was the primary occupation among residents, and it remains an important way of life for many.

Sherry's Bakery The Dunn Farmers Market is located in a parking lot behind another local institution, Sherry’s Bakery, which refers to its location as being the “sweetest smelling corner in town.” Owned by

Family Restaurant, Japanese and Pizza Over in Angier, the longtime local eatery is called Family Restaurant. The name is appropriate, since so many regulars show up week after week that they might as well be family.

The restaurant is famous for its buttermilk biscuits with country ham and red-eye gravy at breakfast, and its seafood dinners on Friday night.

A taste of Japan recently arrived in Harnett County with the opening of the Yamato Japanese Steak & Seafood House in Dunn. Area residents no longer need to travel far in order to have fresh sushi and classic tempura dinners.

And of course, every town has to have a favorite Mexican place.

One of the most popular in the area can be found near Lillington at Mi Casita. Owner Juan Macias, the son of a butcher, grew up in San Jose, Mexico and has spent a lifetime refining traditional dishes.

– Cary Estes

Bottom left: Sherry’s Bakery is well known for its 10-layer chocolate cake.

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Jeff Adkins

The city of Dunn celebrates that farming tradition every Saturday from May through midOctober with the Dunn Farmers Market. This is locally grown produce at its most local. The first item on the market’s official list of rules and regulations states that the vendors “must reside and produce the items they sell within a 50-mile radius of the City of Dunn.”

The current version of the Dunn Farmers Market began in 2006, with only a half-dozen or so vendors showing up each week. By 2009, there were more than 30 vendors setting up at the market on any given Saturday.

The market sells much more than just produce. Take a stroll among the stalls and you are apt to find vendors hawking cakes, flowers, fresh honey, folk art, jewelry, soap, dog cookies and even butterfly houses. There also is a farmers market held in Lillington each Wednesday afternoon during the late spring and summer.

Freddie and Mary Williford, Sherry’s has been in business for more than 40 years. In addition to breakfast, lunch and dinner, Sherry’s serves all the bakery favorites such as doughnuts, honey buns, cookies, pies and cakes for all occasions.

Todd Bennett

Dunn Farmers Market

Todd Bennett

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visit our

advertisers Anderson Creek Realty www.andersoncreekclub.com Conveniently located along I-95 and I-40, just a few hours to the beach or the mountains, and just minutes to your workplace.

Brookfield Assisted Living Center Inc. www.brookfieldassisted.com Campbell University www.campbell.edu

We invite you to unwind with us … stay a few days, or stay a lifetime.

Welcome Home …

City of Dunn (910) 230-3500 www.dunn-nc.org

Dunn Area Tourism Authority (910) 892-3282 www.dunntourism.org

Central Carolina Community College www.cccc.edu Dunn Area Chamber of Commerce www.dunnchamber.com Dunn Travel & Tourism www.dunntourism.org Faith Education Academy Hampton Inn www.dunn.hamptoninn.com Harnett County Economic Development Commission www.harnettedc.org Harnett County Schools www.harnett.k12.nc.us Harnett Health System www.bjrh.org Lee Pest Solutions O’Quinn-Peebles Funeral Home www.oquinnpeebles.com Realty World – JE Womble & Sons www.womblerealtync.com South River Electric Membership Cooperative www.sremc.com Southeastern Medical Center PC www.centerformedicalweightloss.com

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community profile Snapshot Harnett County is located in the central portion of North Carolina.

The area is two hours away from the Crystal Coast and less than four hours away from the mountains.

time zone Eastern

Land area

595

Square Miles

Climate

cost of living

The coastal plain transitions into the Piedmont region in Harnett County, giving the area four distinct seasons.

The climate is temperate for the most part, with only a few days over 90 degrees or below freezing.

$44,165

29 F

Median Rent for a Two-Bedroom Apartment

Median Household Income

July Average High Temperature

48�

Annual Rain Fall (vs. National Average Annual Rain Fall of 37�)

Married

48% Single

28% Age 19 and Under

50% Age 20-54

$129,357

22%

Median Home Price

Age 55 and Over

$612

60%

January Average Low Temperature

89 F

52%

Household information

White

18% Black

115,761

8%

Total Population

Hispanic

35

14%

Median Resident Age

Other

This section is sponsored by

1310 S. Main St. Lillington, NC 27546 (910) 893-3232 www.oquinnpeebles.com

i m ag e s h a r n e t t c o u n t y. c o m

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Through the Lens

Get the Story Behind the Photo Now that you’ve experienced Harnett County through our photos, see it through the eyes of our photographers. Visit imagesharnettcounty.com to view our exclusive photographers’ blog documenting what all went in to capturing those perfect moments.

From Our Photo Blog: Harnett County Driving past the airport while shooting for Images Harnett County, I spotted a glider being towed into the air. I pulled in to take a look and discovered several more gliders on the infield.

I began taking pictures and struck up a conversation with glider pilot George Kiefer, who offered to take me up in the air. I had flown in a lot of different contraptions over the years, but never a glider.

The ride was surprisingly noisy and bumpy due to the high temperatures that day, but it was a thrill with breathtaking views of Harnett County.

Posted by jeffrey s. otto

More Online See more favorite photos and read the stories behind the shots at imagesharnettcounty.com.

The Harnett County Courthouse 40

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Broad Street Deli & Market

Ad Index

24 Anderson Creek Realty

25 Harnett Health System

34 Brookfield Assisted Living Center Inc.

23 Lee Pest Solutions

38 Campbell University

39 O’Quinn – Peebles Funeral Home

34 Central Carolina Community College

1 Dunn Area Chamber of Commerce

C4 South River Electric Membership Cooperative

C3 Southeastern Medical Center PC

38 Dunn Travel & Tourism

4 Faith Education Academy

2 Hampton Inn

8 Harnett County Economic Development Commission

C2 Harnett County Schools

8 Realty World – JE Womble & Sons