NCCOAST Bus.Journal April 15-June 15,2011

SMALL BUSINESS WEEK YOUNG PROFESSIONALS ROUNDTABLE FINDING A SENSE OF PLACE April 15 - June 15, 2011

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COSTING THE COAST From New Energy-Saving Initiatives to Sea Level Rise, the Face of Construction is Changing in Carteret County PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID Morehead City NC 28557 Permit No. 116

Published by NCCOAST Communications in cooperation with the Carteret County Economic Development Council and the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce.

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CONTENTS Vol. 4 â&#x20AC;˘ Issue 2 April 15-June 15, 2011

nccoast.com email: ncbj@nccoast.com The NCCOAST Business Journal serves to showcase Carteret County as a prime location for doing business.

The NCCOAST Business Journal is published by NCCOAST Communications in cooperation with the Carteret County Economic Development Council and the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce. The advertising deadline for the June-August 15 edition is May 6. For additional information, visit nccoast.com

Published by NCCOAST Communications 201 N. 17th St., Morehead City, NC 28557 252.240.1811 â&#x20AC;˘ 800.525.1403 nccoast.com

Managing Editor: Craig Ramey, (editor@nccoast.com)

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THE COST OF GOING GREEN

How new building codes and the search for energy efficiency will affect construction costs for homes and businesses in the next year. Want more? See our related story on sea level rise, found on Page 20.

6 KEEPING IT SMALL County commissioners give nod to Carteret Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Small Business Weekâ&#x20AC;? this April.

8 TARGETING TOURISM From the NC Seafood Festival being named top festival to Big Rockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economic impact, the fruits of tourist season are coming into bloom.

Sales Director: Jamie Bailey (252.241.9485)

18 CONNECTING POINT Young professionals recently participated in two business roundtables to chart out the current and future needs of their peers.

Advertising Sales: Britt Hardy (252.560.0511) David Pennington (252.247.7442) Ashly Willis (252.723.3350), (sales@nccoast.com)

20 BUILDING BUSINESS The touchy subject of sea level rise is peering down on coastal property owners as studies and debates continue.

Staff Writer: Amanda Dagnino

Creative Director: Kim Moore, (kim@nccoast.com) Graphic Design: Mimi Davis, Eddie BonĂŠ Lindsay Parker and Roze Taitingfong The NCCOAST Business Journal is published six times per year by NCCOAST Communications. Email sales@nccoast.com for subscription information. Copyright 2011. All rights reserved. The NCCOAST Business Journal is staff produced and cannot be held responsible for any unsolicited editorial material. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.

IN OTHER BUSINESS 16 From the EDC 19 The Onlooker, In the News 22 From the Chamber 24 Biz Beat 25 Ask Score 26 In the Network 27 Advertising Index From the Cover: Construction workers for Bluewater Builders, Emerald Isle, set up shop amidst the dunes on Ocean Drive during a recent renovation. Photo by Amanda Dagnino.

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KEEPING IT SMALL Weeklong Effort Shines Spotlight Upon Carteret’s Small Businesses Carteret County observes Small Business Week April 17-23 and the Carteret County Board of Commissioners has proclaimed it so with a Resolution of Appreciation. Here are excerpts from the resolution: “The strength of our local economy is built on the creativity and resourcefulness of small businesses, and small businesses provide thousands of employment opportunities for the citizens of Carteret County.

“Small business owners demonstrate the ideals and principles of entrepreneurship through their investment in the future of our community, and they serve

Small Business Person of the Year Gary McKeel, pictured here with Sandra Sillman, received the Arnold Murray Small Business Person of the Year Award during the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce Crystal Ball.

(Photo by Wes Daniels of NCBoatphotos.com)

as ambassadors for Carteret County, extending the best practices of extraordinary customer service, which are comforting to visitors, tourists and guests in our community.”

The commissioners applauded the partnership of organizations that are working together as partners in the Carteret County Small Business Resource Alliance to advance the interests of small businesses in the community – representatives from Carteret Community College, the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce, the Carteret County Economic Development Council, the JobLink Career Center, the North Carolina Military Business Center and SCORE Chapter #660.

“They are advocates that assist small businesses in the community to improve their competitive advantage and profitability,” the resolution notes.

“Therefore, Be It Resolved, to pay tribute to small

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businesses in Carteret County and to celebrate the achievements of small business owners that enhance the quality of life in our community, the week of April 17-23, 2011, will be recognized by the Carteret County Board of Commissioners as Small Business Week in Carteret County.”

SBA Offers Lending Initiatives for Underserved Communities Lenders who participate in the US Small Business Administration’s Preferred Lender Program can now approve loans through the agency’s new Small Loan Advantage program. At the same time, the agency will begin accepting applications from community-based, mission-focused lenders who are interested in making SBA-guaranteed loans through the new Community Advantage program.

Both the Small Loan Advantage and Community Advantage programs were announced in December as part of the agency’s efforts to increase the number of lower dollar loans being made to small businesses and entrepreneurs in underserved communities.

“Businesses in underserved communities, including minority and women-owned as well as businesses in rural areas, have been among the hardest hit by the recent economic downturn,” said SBA Administrator Karen Mills. “These two new Advantage initiatives can provide critical support to help these businesses and entrepreneurs get much needed financing to start and grow, which will translate into more jobs in these communities.”

Built on what the agency refers to as its “Advantage” platform, both Small Loan Advantage and Community Advantage offer a streamlined application process for SBA-guaranteed 7(a) loans up to $250,000. Advantage loans will come with the regular 7(a) government guarantee, 85 percent for loans up to $150,000 and 75 percent for those greater than $150,000.

Any of the 610 financial institutions across the country in the SBA’s Preferred Lender Program (PLP) can approve loans using the new Small Loan Advantage process. Under PLP, which includes most of the agency’s highest volume lenders, SBA delegates the final credit decisions to these lenders.

SBA and US Dept. of Commerce studies have shown the importance of lower-dollar loans to small business formation and growth in underserved communities. With that in mind, the two new loan initiatives – Small Loan Advantage and Community Advantage – are aimed at increasing the number of lower-dollar SBA 7(a) loans going to small businesses and entrepreneurs in underserved communities. The agency’s most popular loan product, 7(a) government-guaranteed loans can be used for a variety of general business purposes, including working capital and purchases of equipment and real estate.

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TA R G E T I N G TO U R I S M

Celebrating National Tourism Week The task of promoting tourism on the Crystal Coast is a yearlong effort, however, that goal comes to a point during the first full week of May as the county celebrates National Tourism Week.

The Carteret County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has adopted a resolution of support to reinforce the marketing efforts of the Crystal Coast Tourism Authority and the Crystal Coast Hospitality Association and to help promote Carteret County as a preferred destination of travelers and vacationers.

“We want people to discover Carteret Tourism is on the Rise County as ‘America’s A report released in March Recreation Destination,’” by the US Travel Association said Chamber Chair reported that visitors spent Tom Kies of Marketing Research Consultancy. a record $17 billion in “The Crystal Coast is a North Carolina in 2010, vacationer’s paradise, up 9 percent from 2009. and we are the ‘Water Visitors also increased to Sports Capital of North 36.8 million, making North Carolina.’”

Carolina the sixth-most National Tourism Week visited state in the nation. will be observed countywide May 7-15.

“There’s so much to see and do here … in, on and under the water,” he said. “All of our businesses are buoyed by warm-weather tourism, either directly or indirectly.”

The chamber encourages everyone to observe Tourism Week and extend a “Hand of Hospitality” to visitors, guests, customers and clients.

“Collectively, we are all ambassadors for the Crystal Coast,” added Kies.

“There is no question that the travel and tourism industry drives Carteret County’s local economy, and a positive, friendly attitude … coupled with common courtesies … will leave a lasting impression with those who visit. We want these folks to return year after year.”

Fishing for Dollars Fishing tournament season is making its way to the Crystal Coast, beginning with the Swansboro Rotary Tournament in May and continuing with the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament in June. Combined with fishermen chartering local boats and families planning their vacation around fishing spots, fishing translates into serious profits for many local businesses.

A 2010 study by Dr. Scott Crosson with the NC Division of Marine Fisheries shows a direct economic impact of saltwater angling of $943,929,472, an addition-

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Two of Carteret County’s treasures are the 150-year-old Cape Lookout Lighthouse and the famous wild horses that live on Shackleford Banks.

(Photo by Carolyn Temple, Coastal Image Photography)

al indirect income of $319,250,048 and $339,542,720 in induced effect for a total of $1.6 billion a year. A comparable figure from a 2006 report noted an impact of $1.3 billion.

Crosson’s study, which uses data from 2008, goes on to note that the industry is responsible for an estimated 17,758 jobs across the state. From marinas and storage facilities to restaurants and hotels, the offshore fishing industry continues to grow in North Carolina despite a decline in other industries around the country.

May through October were listed as the most active fishing months, however 27 percent of the study’s participants indicated they fish year round in North Carolina’s saltwater fisheries.

Only 44 percent of those surveyed owned their own boats, making piers, charters and boat rentals a necessary part of the industry. The average spent on a charter trip was about $150 and average spent on pier fishing was about $11.

“The economic sectors most affected by trip expenditures in the recreational fishery are food stores, wholesale trade, oil and gas sales, domestic trade, ice manufacture, hotels, charter fees, realty, home work and repair, business management, food services, and medical services,” Crosson wrote in the study. “The estimated $1.6 billion economic impact attributed to recreational fishing trip expenditures is a significant (cont. on page 10)

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TA R G E T I N G TO U R I S M (cont. from page 8)

contribution to the coastal economy, particularly during a time when other economic engines such as development have declined.”

In Carteret County, nonprofit agencies gain from the industry as well. Since 1988, the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament has donated $2.1 million back into the community, supporting programs such as the Broad Street Clinic, The History Place, Martha’s Mission Food Pantry, Take a Kid Fishing Foundation, Newport Developmental Center, the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores and others.

Carolina ShowFest Honors Seafood Festival As Best ‘Overall Event of the Year’ NC Seafood Festival officials announced in February that it was the recipient of several awards at the Carolina ShowFest.

“We have always known our festival was one of the best in North Carolina, now we are excited to say that it is official,” said Stephanie McIntyre, executive director of the festival.

The festival won in three categories: Overall Event of the Year, Best Event Poster, and a new category,

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the Green Award. The awards were given on January 24th at “The 2010-2011 Stars of the Carolinas” awards ceremony in Greenville, SC, which was hosted by the NC Association of Festivals and Events and the SC Festival and Events Association.

“It is an honor to know that our volunteers and staff, who work so hard to make this festival a premier event in our area, were recognized by not just a North Carolina Association but also one in South Carolina,” noted George Ballou, chairman of the festival board. “These awards cover events in both states. This is really a great way to kick off our 25th year hosting the festival,” he continued.

The convention was attended by more than 300 festival event planners and professionals from both North and South Carolina. Associate members from sound, lighting, entertainment and a variety of festival logistics companies participated. The Stars of the Carolinas awards allows the associations to honor and recognize the best of the best in the festivals and events industry. To learn more about this association, please visit ncafe.com.

The NC Seafood Festival, now in its 25th year, is a not-for-profit organization in Carteret County that promotes the importance of seafood and the commercial fishing industry in eastern North Carolina. To learn more about the festival and its mission, please visit ncseafoodfestival.org.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DIRECTORY ATTORNEYS Real Estate, Estate Planning, Wills Debra Whaley, Attorney at Law 252.222.4555, 209 N 35th St, Morehead City, NC 28557 dwhaleylaw@hotmail.com Real Estate, Corporate & Commercial Law Kirkman, Whitford, Brady & Berryman, P.A. Neil B. Whitford 252.726.8411, 710 Arendell St., Morehead City, NC 28557 lawyers@kirkmanwhitford.com www.kirkmanwhitford.com CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE Bill Boulia Enterprise, Inc. Bill Boulia 252.223.2122, Newport, NC 28570 boulia@bizec.rr.com www.bouliaenterprise.com

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The

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of Politics

How New Efficiency Standards will Affect the Construction Industry

By Amanda Dagnino The NC Building Code Council turned a brighter shade of green in December – but many in the industry are left wondering at what price that color will come. The council voted to increase energy efficiency standards in new homes and buildings, a move that can save consumers an average of $30 to $100 each month on energy bills.

But with the NC Home Builders Association (HBA) heatedly contesting the upgrade, North Carolina builders wait on the edge of their seats while $79 million in recovery dollars literally hangs in the balance.

The December vote increased efficiency standards in commercial construction by 30 percent and residential construction by 15 percent. The new building code will take effect in January 2012 across the state and becomes mandatory in March 2012.

The upgrade to the state’s efficiency standards, however, didn’t come without a compromise. In September, the council voted to delay discussion on the new standards,

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causing concern among clean energy and environmental advocacy groups. The governor was called in to mediate, and rightly so. In 2009, it was Gov. Beverly Perdue who accepted recovery funds for the state with a promise, in writing, to US Secretary of Energy Steven Chu that she would bring the state up to 2009 International Energy Conservation Code standards – making these code changes almost mandatory.

To appease all sides of the issue, a compromise was reached – at least for now. To minimize the cost of meeting the standards, home builders have asked to cut costs in other areas, including some that have fire safety and insurance pundits concerned, such as the elimination of sprinkler system requirements in apartment buildings with less than 16 units and/or those with two stories and less.

“We all want to build a better home – we all want to build affordable homes, and this energy code is, of course, going to put a strain on that,” said Jeff Buchanan

of Buchanan Custom Homes & Renovations and president of the Carteret County Home Builders Association.

“We’ve already been regulated to death as far as new changes, new codes. We’re concerned about it, but it’s not that we’re not concerned about building an energy efficient home. We just want to build a home that people can afford at the same time. We’re just trying to roll with the punches and stay busy in this economy.”

“When you’re building up to green standards, you’re already taking these things into consideration,” said Pat Patteson, a Bogue Banks-based certified green builder.

“It’s not going to change a lot about what you do on a day-to-day basis. I’m supportive of them and I think it’s a great first step. The next is reaching for 30 percent more efficiency which is eventually where things are going.”

Patteson notes that many of the new codes, such as the use of storm impact windows or shutters on beachfront construction, just make sense.

“Where you used to be able to just put plywood up over your windows during a storm – new construction basically removes the need for that. Things have become more stringent overall – but it takes into consideration where you live and how your home should be constructed. We live in a storm area, we have to think about that when we’re building.”

When it comes to the 230+ members of the county home builders association, Buchanan said support for the new codes is probably split right down the middle.

A certified green builder himself, Buchanan agreed with Patteson that the new higher efficiency standards probably won’t impact his construction methods as much as it may others.

“If you’re building a custom home – a high performance home, you’re not going to have to change much,” he said.

“Who these codes will affect, however, are those people who are building standard builder-grade homes for the general public.”

UP TO CODE There are 21 different offsets being requested by the NC Home Builders Association, two of which are changes in definitions.

The list is broken down to area specific changes, statewide and apartments only. Here’s a sampling of the statewide changes being requested to help facilitate the higher efficiency standards.

Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Change language to require alarms if dwelling has fuel-fired appliances installed or attached garage.

Foundation Vent Size: Change allows reduction in foundation ventilation if vapor retarder is applied.

Rail Posts: Remove bolting requirement.

Weather Resistant Sheathing: Allows elimination of the felt or other approved weather-resistant material behind siding materials if conditions are met.

Water Heaters: Remove requirement for water heater stands for electric water heaters installed in garages.

Framing: Change eliminates the use of engineered lumber or double ridge boards for homes built using hip and valley rafters.

Inspections: Remove requirement that contractors provide ladders for inspections.

Attic Access: Increase the amount of square footage of attic space that requires an access site from 100 to 400.

Estimates vary on what the additional costs are to build with the new efficiency codes in place. While environmental groups quote anywhere from $500-1,000, the HBA claims developers are looking at a difference of about $4,000-5000 per build to meet the new standards.

The press, on the other hand, is reporting an increase of $2,400-3,000. Regardless of the amount, builders want to offset those costs by reducing dollars spent in other areas.

And even though the governor’s office and all sides agreed to the offsets, the HBA is the only entity that has a back-up plan in place. If 10 or more people write letters contesting the new rules, the NC Legislature then picks up the torch – and holds the potential for canceling the new efficiency standards altogether and sending everyone scrambling back to the drawing board with their feet planted firmly in square one. Lisa Martin, the head lobbyist for the HBA has been reported as saying that the board will almost certainly submit the necessary letters – but only as a contingency plan if the offsets promised do not materialize.

“I think everyone knew it was going to come about and we knew that we were going to be accused of making less safe homes,” Buchanan said. “We’re not trying to take away from safety, we’re not trying to take away from the structure period. It’s a fair trade of other codes that aren’t necessary to offset the costs of putting these new efficiency codes into play. We’re not trying to put anyone at jeopardy or our insurance at jeopardy. You know, when you build a home, your credibility is on the line every day and like I said, in today’s economy it’s hard enough to stay busy, nobody wants to risk their reputation.”

In addition to the mandatory 15 percent increase in residential efficiency, the council also established a voluntary compliance path and special recognition for builders who build new homes to the higher 30 percent efficiency standards. Gov. Bev Perdue and supporters of the higher efficiency standards have also pledged to work with the industry to develop improved training and methods of measuring the energy efficiency of homes.

“The Building Code Council has taken a great step forward in making our homes and businesses more energy efficient and recognizing the outstanding efforts of our ‘green’ builders who are building at the 30 percent and above energy efficiency improvement levels, which should be everyone’s goal,” Julie Robinson of the NC Sustainable Energy Association (NCSEA) said in a press release. “Improved education is key to increasing energy efficiency across our state. The new 2012 building code will have an enormous impact by helping our builders, home and business owners, contractors, architects, engineers, building inspectors, appraisers, realtors and lending institutions.”

Environmentalists are calling North Carolina’s growing ‘green’ industry one of the bright spots in a floundering economy. According to the 2010 North Carolina Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Industries Census, conducted by the NCSEA last September, there are at least 1,622 green building jobs in our state, a 13-percent increase since 2009, and a total of 7,326 energy efficiency related jobs. Over the next year, 36 percent of respondents said they expected to add employees.

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From the EDC Creating a Place for Investment In the last issue, we talked about short-term corporate investment taking the form of mergers, acquisitions and buy-outs over the next several years with only “mission critical” projects moving forward.

Corporations will have excess space and a wealth of talent to refill downsized positions. We determined that substantial job growth will come from where it always has … small business, a very compatible target for our community.

In the past, economic development entities would focus on utilizing tax breaks and monetary incentives to lure new investment. While these tools are still very critical components of economic development, many communities are now noting the very positive effects “quality places” have in determining business locations, especially small businesses. Now more than ever, because businesses today can truly locate anywhere, place and investment go together. Not just corporate or business investment but also personal investment from individuals selecting a new community to call home.

Growing “cost-effective” localities with a strong sense of place are a major influence on business location and development decisions.

What makes a great place? The aesthetic perception of a community is the first thing we normally encounter.

Is there a relationship between old and new architec-

ture? Is there a defining style, a sense of space? Is it unique? The arts have been used in numerous cities to spur development and create nightlife in downtowns.

Are the community’s history, art and culture authentic?

Are there green areas and public spaces … parks, plazas to enhance views and encourage interaction?

Is the community connected to its natural environment? Is it pedestrian friendly; are there sidewalks and trails? Does it have walkability and bikeability? Is there access to transit and intermodal centers? Is there a sense of neighborhood? Are there “towns within towns? Is the community maintained? Do the people have “pride of place?”

Can place be created? Yes – and there is a wave of placemaking occurring worldwide. However, the key is to start small, it cannot be done all at once and certainly not in the current economic environment. Starting small and creating a place cluster will generate energy and excitement that spreads. Involve the residents.

What would they like to see in the plan? Build consensus. Creating place celebrates a community’s heritage and diversity. Have a “Pride of Place” competition to highlight the best of the community.

In Carteret County, we are surrounded by an abundance of natural beauty and our towns must continue to make our built environment as beautiful as our natural environment. Good design does not cost more than bad design. However the overall effects are invaluable.

“Place” can start with your place … your home and business. Is it the best place you can make it?

The bottom-line is that people want to be proud of where they live and work. Many mobile small businesses are looking for just that in a new community.

They can locate anywhere and are making place a very large factor in the decision-making process.

Place may also be the best way to keep our young people here and attract other “twentysomethings” to our towns (see related story on Page 18). That group composes the majority of the “Creative Class.” Statistics have shown that during this recession, the regions with a larger percentage of creative workers have fared much better. Knowledge-based companies are following the movement of the creative class. Talent is indeed driving the economy and talent is looking for the amenities an area offers for their particular lifestyle.

A little more polish on the Crystal Coast could go a long way. I

Myles Stempin, Executive Director Carteret County Economic Development Council

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CONNECTING POINT

Mining for a Future Among Young Professionals

Where should Carteret County be 20 or 30 years from now?

What can be done to lure new business to the area? What does the community need to increase the quality of life for its residents? And what can 20 to 40 year olds do now to help the community be an even better place to live?

In an effort to move Carteret County into the future, two area organizations are reaching out to the younger sect in hopes of drawing from their pool of knowledge and energy. On Tuesday, March 15 about 30 young business leaders packed into the meeting room at the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce to show their interest in the Carteret County Young Business Professionals Group (YBPG) organized by chamber president, Mike Wagoner.

It wasn’t the first time these sales managers and lawyers and massage therapists and landscapers had gotten together. A week earlier the Economic Development Council held a round table discussion – but the upshot from both meetings was the same. Young professionals want to have a voice about the future of the community in which they live. Sometimes finding a place to use that voice can be challenging for the young, but once they do, these professionals are full of fresh ideas for helping nonprofits, bringing new industry and business to the area and finding new and innovative ways to support the school system.

From outlet malls and casino boats to rail transport and the desire for beer sales at Morehead City Marlins’ games – the ideas ran the gamut during the after-hours meeting. While making Carteret County a great place to live and work, the group is eager to find some benefits for themselves from the networking the new group affords. Most agreed that professionals age 20-40 are sort of stuck in an unsupported age range. While membership to most networking and professional organizations is open to the younger members of the workforce, most groups are populated by older, more established professionals. And many are frustrated that as they volunteer with different organizations they continue to see the same handful of young people wherever they go.

“If we’re able to provide that platform for young people to have a voice and work together for the community, then everything else, the networking, the business benefit, the social aspect, it will all just fall in to place,” said participant Andrew Wheeler of Wachovia Bank.

The idea for the group spawned from a chamber board conference held in January to brainstorm ideas for where the county is go-

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ing. One of the suggestions was to target younger professionals and create network opportunities for them, said Wagoner, because they are the “future of the community.”

“A lot of chambers have young people’s groups that operate under the same umbrella,” Wagoner said.

“Our goal, at least initially, is to get a consensus and a commitment from these people to see if this is something they’d like to do. Then we’ll begin structuring the group and its mission.

“I think the chamber has done a pretty good job – we’ve been encouraging a lot of younger people to participation,” he continued. “But there are some generational differences. We’re hopeful that there might be interest in seeing a group coming together that may have some social implications as well as philanthropic and networking.”

Wheeler pointed out that Rotary International is also reaching out to the under 40 professionals. The New Generations club meets at 6pm each Thursday at Raps in Morehead City. Active for a little over two years, the group boasts 30 members with an average age of 30.

“I think we have a lot of leadership here. A lot of promise and a lot of enthusiasm,” said Wagoner.

The group will hold one more organizational meeting and hopes to name a board or steering committee to help guide the group. To learn more, or to participate, call the chamber at 252-726-6350. I

IN THE NEWS DMCRA Hires New Executive Director Bill Taylor, chairman of the Downtown Morehead City Revitalization Association Board of Directors, announced that the organization has officially hired Tom Kies as the new executive director.

Taylor said, “We’re extremely pleased to have someone of Tom’s caliber. He has the leadership qualities that will not only provide continuity but will expand our efforts to revitalize downtown Morehead City. Because we had over 30 excellent applicants, we spent a lot of time and effort assessing and interviewing candidates. In the end, we all felt that Tom had the qualifications and skill sets we needed.”

Taylor added, “We’ve got a lot to be proud of here in Morehead City. We have a dynamic waterfront, terrific restaurants, interesting boutique shops and great art galleries. We envision wonderful things for downtown and we know Tom’s going to help us make them happen.”

Kies, a partner at Marketing Research Consultancy, was

Down East Is ‘Open for Business’ When Charles Jones, a Down East community leader, spoke to the Beaufort Rotarians recently, he made a fine choice of words.

Jones said: “The Outer Banks National Scenic Byway begins on US 70, east of Beaufort at the North River Bridge and continues northeast and north on NC 12 and ends at Whalebone Junction in Dare County.” Not the other way around.

This distinction offers an insight into the fresh, new attitude toward tourism that has Down East Carteret County beaming with pride and assuming its rightful place on the map as a bona fide tourism destination – from Cedar Island and Harkers Island to Jones’ home place in Tusk (about midway between Smyrna and Marshallberg).

As chair of the board of directors at the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center on Harkers Island, Jones is quick to recognize the potential of Down East as a cultural and heritage tourism and eco-tourism mecca.

The juices really began to flow at a “Saltwater Connections” get-together, which was hosted by the museum.

They are learning from one of the best in the business – Becky Anderson, founder of HandMade in America, who has performed miracles in the western, mountain counties to market “authenticity.”

“Cultural and heritage travelers are hungry to experience what is real and genuine; it’s the fastest growing segment of the travel and tourism market,” Anderson said.

the publisher of NCCOAST Communications for more than four years. Under his leadership, NCCOAST added The Business Journal, Waterfront, Health & Wellness and Crystal to its roster of publications. Kies has served on the boards of the Downtown Morehead City Revitalization Association, the Carteret County Economic Development Association and the Crystal Coast Hospitality Association and is serving as the chair of the board of directors for the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce. He is also on the Citizens’ Advisory Board for the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores.

Before moving to Carteret County, Kies worked at a number of newspapers and magazines in New York and New England. For four years he was also the president of the Norwalk Seaport Association, a nonprofit environmental, preservation and maritime educational organization offering an array of programs, special events and community projects. He presently lives in Pine Knoll Shores with his wife, Cindy.

Kies said, “I’m thrilled to be chosen by the DMCRA to be their executive director. I’ve worked with this organization ever since I arrived in North Carolina and they’re an energetic, bright group of folks who all want to see Morehead City grow. I’m looking forward to meeting with the business owners and residents in the downtown area to get their thoughts and suggestions on how we can do even a better job representing them.” I

THE ONLOOKER According to her research, 78 percent of all leisure travelers now participate in cultural and/or heritage activities while traveling. And they spend more – an average of $994 per trip compared to $611 for the average tourist.

The assets of Down East are priceless. How many can you name? The most obvious, of course, are: Cape Lookout National Seashore, the lighthouse and the wild horses on Shackleford Banks. (Collectively, the Banker ponies are now North Carolina’s official state horse.)

But Down East residents also claim: Commercial fishing, seafood, boat building, decoy carving, hunting, kayaking, birding, coastal crafts, candle making, sunrises and sunsets … and “the natural beauty that we have taken care of for generations.”

When you look at the bigger picture and see Down East as part of Carteret County – “One Great County” – the assets multiply.

Consider the treasures of Civil War history, the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, the NC Maritime Museum and the Old Burying Ground in Beaufort.

Mix in our glorious beaches (with new sand on Atlantic Beach), boating, diving and the newest trend for culinary activities, including local, homegrown foods and wines … and it becomes crystal clear that the Crystal Coast is hot, hot, hot as a multi-talented tourism destination.

Help us spread the word that the Scenic Byway begins here. I

By Mike Wagoner, President Carteret County Chamber of commerce

www.nccoast.com

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BUILDING BUSINESS

Inching Forward Examining the Economic Threat of Sea Level Rise

By Amanda Dagnino

F

ew North Carolinians will forget holding their breath in excitement in July of 1999 when the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the tallest brick lighthouse in the world, began its slow but steady 2,900-foot trek inland. When constructed in 1870 the structure sat about 1,600 feet from the shoreline. By 1998 it was only 120 feet from the encroaching waves, precipitating the $12 million move.

The lighthouse represents one of the more tangible examples of the potential threat of rising sea level in North Carolina.

It’s been a source of concern for scientists for years – and is quickly becoming a source of frustration for political bodies. Instead of debates over why the climate is changing, government now finds itself debating how to tackle the aftereffects.

With nearly 3,400 miles of tidal shoreline, North Carolina tasked a science panel to examine the current state of sea level rise and to provide future projections. The report, which was released in December, gave a range of options, including the current rate of sea level rise, a high-end and a midrange calculation, which is a little over three feet.

With the first draft complete, the Coastal Resource Com-

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mission officially adopted the middle reading, the one meter sea level rise (39 inches) by 2100, and with that decision all CAMA counties were mandated to integrate this information into their land use plans as a guide for infrastructure and future development.

“Once our county board received the information, as you can imagine, it was a lot to swallow,” said Greg “Rudi” Rudolph of the Carteret County Shore Protection Office. “The complaints range from the age of the sea level gauges used to the fact that it’s three times more than what the current rate is. If that’s their best educated guess that’s great – but they better have some data to back it up.”

And then there were the questions: What would the county do with the land that’s going to be flooded? What’s going to happen to the community? To developers? To our ability to obtain insurance? How are you going to secure money for long-term mortgages?

“There are a lot of questions like this out there floating around,” said Rudolph. “Plus, there was no map to illustrate exactly what they were talking about. Some visualization was required. And from a government perspective, the highest tax values are the ones that the study says will be affected.

Before anything is addressed they want to be sure that this is

factual information. All those what ifs were way too much to codify into what sea level is going to do in the next 90 years.

The implications of a policy like that and sea level rise of a meter are huge.

“The good thing is that the state backed off the one meter sea level rise altogether,” Rudolph added. “In fact, they backed away from adopting a rate at all. Instead they simply said that counties and towns under CAMA’s jurisdiction must include this data when developing a land use plan. They basically said ‘you all address it how you want, but you must address it.’”

All three scenarios developed by the science panel had basically the same rate of sea level increase until they start diverging around 2030. And that has encouraged government to take a cautious “wait and see” attitude. New gauges will be installed and the sea level rise will be closely monitored for the next 19 years to see which trend is more accurate.

The NC Dept of Emergency Management has called for an engineering specific study which is due out later this year and is sure to become the next big thing circulating on the topic. To learn more about the study and to read prior reports, visit ncsealevelrise.com.

Why the Sea is Rising With doom and gloom headlines and stories that require a science degree to decipher them, the Average Joe is often left scratching his head before moving on to more pressing matters, like whether or not to cut the grass today. After all, we’re talking about what is going to happen 89 years from now, right?

Well yes, and no. While the recent study put together by the NC Resource Commission’s Science Panel looks at sea level rise through 2100, it’s an incremental process.

“It’s absolutely something we should be concerned about,” said Rudolph. “But it’s hard to get folks concerned mainly because you’re talking about 2mm a year – it’s like the attack of the giant snail. Oh, it’s coming, but it’s going to take

a while to get here. Then if we mention a cataclysmic meter rise in 90 years, it’s too much for people to deal with. It’s overwhelming.

“We are not alone,” Rudolph points out. “Every community in the free world is dealing with this. There is no example, no perfect example, of folks doing the right thing at this point.

Nobody has the magic answer yet. Everyone is pretty much in the same situation we’re in.”

The debate continues over how much of climate change is caused by man (fossil fuels and greenhouse gases) and how much is brought on by the natural cycle of the earth. We’ve had ice ages before, remember. But few people will argue with the fact that the earth is losing glacial ice. About 95 percent of the glaciers in the world are retreating or shrinking at record rates. And while it is also prudent to approach the idea of reducing emissions to slow climate change, most people have reached the point of acceptance. We may be able to slow the rate, but we cannot stop it entirely despite whatever drastic measures we may take. North Carolina’s coastline was vastly different 100 years ago and 100 years from now it will have evolved even more.

It’s easy to surmise that glacial ice plays a big factor in sea level change. As the ice continuously melts and is released into the world’s ocean it slowly, but surely, inches the level up. This type of sea level change, referred to in scientific worlds as eustatic sea level, is added to other changes, such as the rise and fall of the land itself, to estimate relative sea level rise (RSL). Land once compressed by glaciers slowly rises, regions where land was forced up by historical glaciers, slowly settles back down at a rate not visible to the naked eye. These factors along with currents, tides, thermal expansion and more help scientists tally the annual RSL.

How Will it Affect Us? A report in the Charlotte Observer estimates that some 30,500 homes in North Carolina, some of the most expensive in the state, sit within a meter of sea level. Economists have put a price tag of $6.9 billion in property in the four counties they studied.

“I think the biggest impacts are not to the beaches but to the estuarine system,” Rudolph said. “Fortunately for Bogue Banks, we’re very high and dry – naturally 20 feet high – so you can imagine what type of sea level rise you’d have to have to wipe us out.”

And with a 30-year beach plan in place among Bogue Banks’ various municipalities, regularly scheduled beach nourishment projects will help maintain that barrier.

“We always fill the beach to a certain level, and before it gets to a meter rise, it’s going to have to get to six inches and 12 inches and so on,” added Rudolph. “It’s not like we’re going to walk outside and it’s like someone turned on the lights and we’re two feet higher. It’s a gradual increase.”

The estuarine system in Down East Carteret County is the most endangered.

“What I get worried about more is not disaster assistance funding, but rather just the cost of living. It’s going to be harder to get financing, harder to get insurance.

“The new draft language is in and I think it’s looking pretty good. We’ve come along way. But there is still have a long way to go.”

And that brings us back to the Hatteras Lighthouse, still lighting the way for mariners as they etch a path up and down our coastline. To put things in an even more tangible perspective, it took just 8 inches of sea level rise to encourage law makers to undertake the multi-million dollar move. I

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From the Chamber Leadership Carteret Graduates 23rd Class

The 36 members of the Leadership Carteret Class of 2011 graduated with flying colors during graduation day ceremonies on April 13 at the Country Club of the Crystal Coast in Pine Knoll Shores.

Leadership Carteret is all about teamwork. It’s not as easy as it looks for classmates to rearrange themselves in order of their birthday month … without falling off the log in the TP Shuffle activity.

The 10-week program, offered through the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce, is designed to build stronger community leaders, according to Alan Leary of Century 21 Newsom-Ball Realty, co-chair of the Leadership Carteret Steering Committee.

“Now, we welcome these new graduates to the ranks of Leadership Carteret alumni,” he said.

Committee co-chair Steve Hellersperk of ACS Computer Services, Toastmasters-Morehead City and PACS Network Solutions said: “Each class to go through Leadership Carteret has its own personality, and the class of 2011 was one of the most inquisitive groups ever. We expect they will continue to make a contribution as business leaders and involved citizens in our communities.”

Chamber President Mike Wagoner said: “The chamber launched Leadership Carteret in 1988, and the steering committee is made up of past graduates who believe in the power of this program. The curriculum gets better each year, and faculty members volunteer their time and talent.”

Applications for Leadership Carteret 2012 will be available in September. If interested, contact the chamber at (252) 726-6350.

Chamber Awards Honor Top Performers

Four individuals recently received major annual awards from the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce. They are as follows: Joan Lamson, former mayor of Pine Knoll Shores, was recognized as the Citizen of the Year for her accomplish-

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ments in support of small businesses in Carteret County. She is an active SCORE counselor and facilitator of the Morehead City Small Business Roundtable meetings. Lamson regularly conducts workshops and seminars for business owners and entrepreneurs through Carteret Community College, specializing in the areas of business plan development, marketing and communications.

Gary McKeel, owner of ECI Communications and Boardwalk Screen printing and Embroidery in Morehead City, received the chamber’s Arnold Murray Small Joan Lamson (Photo by Wes Business Person of the Year Daniels of NCBoatphotos.com) Award. A former tug boat captain, McKeel launched ECI Communications as a small cellular store in the mid 1990s, and the company has now evolved into an electronics and communications company, providing public safety and mission critical systems for police, fire, EMS and military organizations.

Steve Hellersperk of ACS Computer Services, Toastmasters-Morehead City and PACS Steve Hellersperk (Photo by Wes Daniels of NCBoatphotos.com) Network Solutions, won the Cassie Algeo Award for Extraordinary Chamber Leadership.

Within the chamber, he serves as co-chair of the Leadership Carteret Steering Committee and is a longtime member of the Ambassadors Club.

Debbie Fisher received the Debbie Godwin Ambassador of the Year Award. She is affiliated with four businesses – Mary Kay Cosmetics, Office Fusion SoluDebbie Fisher (Photo by Wes tions, Hyper International BusiDaniels of NCBoatphotos.com) ness Development Center and Coastal Heritage Construction & Realty. She was Ambassador of the Month six times in 2010.

Beach Run Event is May 14

The Military Affairs Committee of the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce presents its 2nd annual Capt.

MAC Beach Run on Saturday, May 14, on the beach in

Having a Ball The Chamber of Commerce’s annual Crystal Ball is always a wellattended night of who’s who among Carteret County’s business community. While snow caused the 2011 event to be postponed until a week later, everyone finally came together and as always, the night did not disappoint. Here are a few of the faces spotted during this year’s event.

Shana Olmstead of Floyd’s 1921 Restaurant joined friends Amy Lewis, Tina Purifoy and Sue Stanley, all of the Sheraton Atlantic Beach Oceanfront Hotel, at the chamber’s Crystal Ball.

Ashly Willis, Kim Moore and David Pennington of NCCOAST Communications will be there to welcome you to the Business After Hours Expo on May 5.

Make New Contacts At Chamber Expo Event Here are Bobbi & David Brown of Emerald Isle at the Chamber’s Crystal Ball.

More than 185 people came to the Chamber’s 2011 Crystal Ball, including Linda Whalen of Balloons for You and her husband, Brian.

front of the Sheraton Atlantic Beach Oceanfront Hotel in Atlantic Beach.

The 5K race begins at 9:30am and a 1-mile Fun Run follows.

To register and pay online, go to carteretchambermac. com. For more information, contact Diane Warrender at the chamber at diane@nccoastchamber.com or (252) 726-6350.

Co-sponsors are the Sheraton, Molly’s Beachside Bar & Grill at the Sheraton and the V103.3 FM Radio/Beasley Broadcast Group. I

Army Chief Warrant Officer 3 Clark Patton was interviewed after the 2010 Capt.

MAC race by a local television station reporter.

The Carteret County Chamber of Commerce presents its 2011 Business After Hours Expo on Thursday, May 5, at the Crystal Coast Civic Center in Morehead City. Open to the public from 4-7:30 p.m. Admission is $5 per person. Adults only, please.

This year’s event features a “Cinco de Mayo” theme.

More than 65 local companies are expected to participate as exhibitors. Come preview their products and services … and take advantage of special discounts.

Restaurants have been invited to provide samples of their specialty dishes for guests to enjoy. Register for door prizes.

It’s not too late for your business to sign up for a booth … but we are filling up fast. To inquire, call us today.

Open for Business and At Your Service 801 Arendell Street - Suite 1, Morehead City

www.nccoastchamber.com

252-726-6350 • 1-800-622-6278 www.nccoast.com

23

B I Z B E AT Moving Forward With the loss of yet another county manager, Carteret County moves into a trying budget cycle without a permanent captain at the helm. Doug Harris, chairman of the Carteret County Board of Commissioners, is optimistic, however, that the county can find the ideal person for the job as they move forward in planning for the upcoming fiscal year.

“We have advertised in several different publications for the county manager position. We have been in touch with the Association of County Commissioners, who help with things of this nature. And we feel pretty confident that we’ll be able find someone who fits Carteret County,” he said recently from home.

After a little more than four months at the post, Duncan Ballantyne rendered his resignation in early February.

Ballantyne, who had taken the job from Florida, had yet to move his family to the area. He had reportedly told the board that he didn’t want his family to move into an “unstable environment,” at least one indication that it wasn’t a permanent position for him.

“Do we want to have full-time manager? Yes. Do I think it’s a big issue? I don’t think so,” said Harris. “Wayne Deal who is serving as our interim is a long-term North Carolina county manager. His most recent full-time job was in Nash County so he’s familiar with some of the issues and he served as our interim manager prior to Ballantyne taking the job. So I feel comfortable with Wayne, and with our staff and with our fellow commissioners.”

Harris said he finds it much more important to find that person who not only understands the concerns facing Carteret County, but who fits well with Carteret County.

“We are geographically challenged,” Harris said. “And we are diverse – we are very diverse. I want to find somebody who will fit in with that diversity and somebody who has a working knowledge of North Carolina law and policies and how things are done in North Carolina.”

Taylor Brothers Marine Construction Receives Contract with Battleship North Carolina Taylor Brothers Marine Construction of Beaufort, has been awarded the contract to begin construction this spring on the starboard bow of the Battleship North Carolina.

Taylor Brothers Marine Construction will perform the hull repairs from its Wilmington office. The father and son team of Julius Taylor, Jr. and Julius Taylor, III will bring more than 40 years of experience in marine construction to bear on the hull. Their work for the battleship will include a custom-made steel coffer dam, which will be inserted against the hull to displace water and mud.

The coffer dam will provide a dry work area against the hull. Working from barges floated over the mud that now surrounds the ship, Taylor will replace steel at the battleship’s “wind-water” line where water meets the hull. The

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NEW CORPORATIONS Business is on the move and each edition of NCCOAST Business Journal makes sure you know how fast it’s going with regular listings of Carteret County’s newest corporations. The following were formed January through March.

81 Restaurant Group – 5407 Cedar Tree Lane, Emerald Isle Angel’s Emerald Dreams LLC – 8204 Emerald Drive, Unit 5, Emerald Isle Blackwell & Scibal Optometry Consulting, PLLC – 109 Core Drive, Morehead City Bella Potenza, LLC – 100 S. Charlotte Ave., Atlantic Beach Best People Operations Consulting, Inc., – 210 MacGregor Drive, Beaufort Burbella Properties, LLC – 2706 One Iron St., Morehead City Cape Lookout Tackle, LLC – 105 Bogue Sound Drive, Newport CivilStar, Inc. – 2936 Mill Creek Road, Newport Clipston Property, LLC – 113 Ocean Oaks Drive, Emerald Isle Crystal Coast Recreation, LLC – 100 12th St., Emerald Isle Eli’s Landing Homeowner’s Association, Inc. – 100 Sutton Drive, Cape Carteret Fitzula Properties, LLC – 304 N. 35th St., Morehead City Hair Cuts, Inc. – 1616 Hwy 101, Beaufort Harrikas Brew Haus, Inc. – 911 Cedar Point Blvd., Cedar Point Juhl Designs, LLC – 223 Star Hill Drive, Cape Carteret Khu Global, LLC – 316 Country Club Lane, Newport Kidz World USA, LLC – 115 Azure Drive, Emerald Isle Killin’ Time Rentals, LLC – 117 Riverside Ave., Morehead City L & L Innovations, LLC – 414 Channel Drive, Emerald Isle Manning Accounting Services, LLC – 304 N.35th St., Morehead City MDC Distributors, Inc. – 304 N. 35th St., Morehead City Mommicked Ventures, LLC – 102 Breakwater Drive, Newport Morehead City Cigar & Tobacco, LLC – 4862 Arendell St., Morehead City Nelson Coastal Properties, LLC – 304 N. 35th St., Morehead City North River Headwaters, LLC – 3714 Guardian Ave., Ste. E, Morehead City Procastinator Sportfishing, LLC – 508 Island Drive, Beaufort Q Consulting Group, LLC – 722 Cedar Point Blvd. #123, Cedar Point Royer Family, LLC – 304 N. 35th St., Morehead City RW Raper, LLC – 115 Riverside Ave., Morehead City Sharon Strickland Photography, LLC – 217 Lejeune Road, Cape Carteret St. Francis Thrift Shop, Inc. – 5087 Arendell St., Morehead City Streamline Developers, LLC – 1102 Woods Court, Morehead City TN TEC Security Products Group, Inc. – 206 Spruce Drive, Morehead City Victoria Wallace, Inc. – 1101 Beaufort Manor Drive, Beaufort VRSA Switch, Inc. – 911 Arendell St., Morehead City Wendy Joy, LLC – 103 Clipper Court, Emerald Isle Woody’s, Inc. – 801 Deerfield Drive, Beaufort

current work will be confined to the starboard bow where rust is most prevalent.

The battleship has not been drydocked since 1947 and over time the hull has shown signs of deterioration with the starboard bow having the most significant needs of repair. Funds raised from Operation Ship Shape, 1998, have been allocated to pay for the $2.1 million project.

This case will serve as the feasibility study for the more substantial in-place hull repair.

“New technologies are giving us the opportunity to move forward with a larger capital project,” said Captain Terry Bragg, executive director of the Battleship North

Counselors to America’s Small Business

Getting on the Same Page

Q:

Amanda Dagnino Photo

Carolina. “We have an obligation to maintain our prime artifact, which is the ship.”

The Battleship North Carolina, located on the Cape Fear River at the junction of Hwys 17, 74/76 and 421, is a self-supporting (not tax supported) entity and relies primarily upon admissions to tour the ship, sales in the Ship’s Store, donations and investments. No funds for its administration and operation come from appropriations from governmental entities at the local, state or federal levels. Visit battleshipnc.com or follow the ship on facebook.com/battleshipnc and Twitter.com/battleshipnc for more information.

Governor Vetoes Proposal to Cut Business Development Funds Gov. Bev Perdue’s first veto of the current legislative session came on Feb. 22 in opposition of Senate Bill 13, which she claims will raid funds the state uses to attract new jobs and help existing businesses expand.

“This bill started out as a way to help North Carolina secure $400 million in additional savings from state government agencies during this difficult budget time,” said Gov. Perdue in a press release. “I suggested that bill to the General Assembly and was ready to sign that legislation.

But the bill in its current form forces a one-time cash-grab from funds that are intended to create jobs and spur economic development. That’s not the right move for North Carolina, where jobs simply must be our No. 1 priority.”

Specific programs that were at risk in the bill, which gave the governor authority to cut $400 billion in spending, included Golden Leaf, the Tobacco Trust Fund, the One North Carolina Fund and Job Development Investment Grants. Perdue agreed to the $400 billion in cuts, however, her solution to helping solve the state’s $2.4 billion deficit was a proposal to leave business incentive programs alone and instead divert funds away from the Employment Security Commission.

Claiming a diversion of funds from the ESC would be unconstitutional, the republican state senate passed a motion to override the veto on March 9 and sent the bill back to the house of representatives, where it remained as of presstime. Although the house is also controlled by republicans with 68 members in the party, overriding the veto would require 72 votes.

Follow the progress of Senate Bill 13 and at ncleg.net. I

I run a small business with only three employees, plus myself and my spouse. I’m having the hardest time trying to get everyone on the same page. Everybody seems to think that they know best. We have issues with administrative procedures and with customer service.

It’s like herding cats! How do I get them to do things the way I want them to?

A:

Your question is a very common question in small businesses. Many people who start a business are so passionate about what they want to do and how they want to do it that they expect everyone else will want to do it the same way. Plus, we sometimes have unspoken expectations about what we want. We assume we are understood, when we might not have been clear about what we really wanted.

The first step is to know what you really want and to write it down. Create a list of procedures and how you want them carried out. Some businesses have procedure manuals that are available to employees. The second step is training. Training needs to be more than just telling someone how to do something. Since humans seem to vary in the ways that we learn, it is also important for the trainer to understand how “this particular” person learns. Some of us learn from reading, some from seeing, and some from hearing. And, then there are some who may find it very hard to learn something new because of prior experience. It can be a show, tell, or watch session but then let them do it and provide observation and feedback. You can also provide incentives for good performance. Incentives can include things such as bonuses, praise, recognition, awards, and opportunities for advancement.

If you are just hiring someone, it is easier to set the standard for performance at that time than it is to impose a standard at a later date. But there are ways of bringing change into organizations. Consider the possibility that there may be better ways of carrying out a procedure than the one you first envisioned. What about engaging your employees in a search for “best practices?” Is it possible that you might discuss together “why should it be done this way or that way?”

You might find that your employees bring fresh insight to a procedure resulting in more efficiency, ease or benefit to all.

Even if nothing worthy of change results from this exercise, you and your employees now will clearly understand why it is the way it is.

There are additional benefits from involving employees in a “best practices” search. Some people will respond very favorably to the opportunity to be part of a solution. Trust and respect can grow both ways and result in a stronger team.

Good luck with the “herding!”

Joan Lamson, SCORE Counselor SCORE “Counselors to America’s Small Business” is a nonprofit association dedicated to educating entrepreneurs and the formation, growth and success of small business nationwide. SCORE is a resource partner with the US Small Business Administration (SBA) with 364 chapters across the US, including one in Carteret County. Each edition of NCCOAST Business Journal will include a small business question submitted to SCORE. To ask your own question call 252.222.6126. I

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IN THE NETWORK

Working After Hours Business Expo Returns to Civic Center May 5

Combining the efforts of a networking event with the flavor a business trade show, the Business After Hours Expo is set to draw more than 400 people to the Crystal Coast Civic Center. Held from 4-7:30pm on Thursday, May 5, the expo is presented by the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce, NCCOAST Business Journal and others.

“We have room inside the Civic Center for about 65 exhibitors, and booth space is in high demand; we expect to fill the hall with companies who will be displaying and/or selling products and services,” said Julie Naegelen, director of membership services.

Sporting their “Meet on the ‘Banks’” aprons at last year’s Business After Hours Expo were members of the staff at the Sheraton Atlantic Beach Oceanfront Hotel, Tina Purifoy, Jan Daughety, Amy Lewis and Alyce Kelly.

Matt Tynes and Butch & Randy Bryant of Pro Environmental Services participated in last year’s Business After Hours Expo at the Crystal Coast Civic Center.

Exhibitor information packets are available at the Chamber, 801 Arendell St., Morehead City, or call the Chamber at 252-726-6350.

The Business After Hours Expo is open to the public and admission is $5 per person. Area restaurants and caterers will bring free samples of their specialty dishes and complimentary adult beverages will be available, beginning at 5pm.

“We expect the May 5 Expo will be the talk of the town, and we are suggesting a ‘Cinco de Mayo’ decorating theme,” Naegelen said. “The networking opportunities will be huge, and we invite everyone to come and experience the broad spectrum of businesses that will be exhibiting.

Attendees can register to win some great door prizes, too.”

“As usual, chamber-sponsored events are designed for adults only,” she said. “No children, please, at the Business After Hours Expo.”

Other partners are: Carteret County News-Times, Beasley Broadcast Group, Crystal Coast Tent & Event Rentals, the Crystal Coast Tourism Authority and the Crystal Coast Hospitality Association. I

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Chalk & Gibbs Insurance and Real Estate was represented at the 2010 Business After Hours Expo by Rodney Kemp, Win Chalk, Dharma Gibbs and Cyndie Cox.

Meredith Cornett Hart of Meredith Cornett Photography exhibited her work at last year’s Business After Hours Expo.

Chamber Business After Hours: Combining Business with Pleasure The Carteret County Chamber of Commerce presents Business After Hours as a forum for members to gain exposure, greater visibility and make new business contacts. Put these dates and locations on your calendar: Thursday, May 19: Sponsored by Branch Banking & Trust Company (BB&T) at Bistro by the Sea, 4031 Arendell St., Morehead City.

Thursday, June 16: Sponsored by Discovery Diving Company at Beaufort Harbour Suites, 313 Cedar St., Beaufort.

Thursday, July 21: Sponsored and hosted by Ashley Furniture HomeStore, 5160 US 70 West (Crystal Coast Plaza), Morehead City.

All events are from 5:30-7pm. Admission is $5 per person and a business card for chamber members. Preregistration is required and advance payment is preferred.

Guests are welcome, but please contact Julie Naegelen at (252) 726-6350 to make arrangements. I

Melody Squires and Denise Guldner, both of Wachovia – A Wells Fargo Company, attended the January Business After Hours at the Morehead Center for Performing Arts & Events.

BUSINESS directory

The following is a list of businesses advertising in the NCCOAST Business Journal with the corresponding page number of their advertisement. For information on advertising in a future issue of the NCCOAST Business Journal, email sales@nccoast.com or phone 252.247.7442 or 800.525.1403.

AL WILLIAMS ............................................. 11 252.726.8800 ALBERT J. ELLIS AIRPORT ......................14 910.324.1100 ANNIE’S VEGGIES ..................................... 11 252.504.2812 ART STUDIO 500........................................15 252.723.0311 BALLY REFRIGERATED BOXES, INC .....14 252.240.2829 CARTERET COMMUNITY COLLEGE .........5 252.222.6000 CARTERET COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ...............................................23 252.726.6350 CARTERET COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL .......................17 252.222.6120 CARTERET COUNTY JOBLINK ..................5 252.726.7151 CHALK & GIBBS INSURANCE & REAL ESTATE SERVICES .....................................7 252.726.3167 COASTAL CAROLINA CORP. ....................14 252.728.5717

COASTAL CAROLINA REGIONAL AIRPORT ......................................................3 252.638.8591 ECON DEVELOPERS, INC ...BACK COVER 252.726.9583 FLOYD’S RESTAURANT ........................... 11 252.727.1921 G.A. JONES CONSTRUCTION ....................7 252.726.3318 GARNER’S FARM ........................................9 252.223.5283 J. K. ELLINGSWORTH TILE ...................... 11 252.726.2201 KATHRYN’S ..................................................9 252.354.6200 LAWRENCE FAMILY DENTISTRY ...............3 252.247.3922 LPL FINANCIAL..........................................15 252.222.0194 MCQUEEN’S INTERIORS ..........................15 252.247.3175 PCS PHOSPHATE ........................................7 252.726.4234

PORT CITY MOTORS ...................................3 252.247.6850 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES .....................10 QUINN PRODUCE ......................................17 252.223.6982 TASSELS ....................................................14 252.247.7463 THE UPS STORE..........................................9 252.726.4433 WASTE INDUSTRIES .................................17 252.223.4176 WILLIAM’S FLOOR COVERING & INTERIORS ..............................................7 252.726.4442 WILLIAM’S HARDWARE..............................9 252.726.7158 WILLIS FARM ...............................................5 252.223.5227 WINBERRY FARM ........................................4 252.393.2281 YORK PROPERTIES, INC. ..........................2 252.247.5772

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