Greater Fayetteville Business Journal - June 17, 2022 Issue

Introducing Dr. Morgan New VA director explains passion

Page 23

June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022 Vol. 2, No. 2

$2.00

bizfayetteville.com

WEB EXCLUSIVE Commercial Real Estate

Carolina Specialities International opens new facility bizfayetteville.com

Commercial Real Estate FCEDC receives funding for talent portal Page 11

Technology

RELEVANT. LOCAL. BUSINESS.

Fort Bragg becomes home to floating solar plant Page 12

STORIES YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

PHOTO PROVIDED BY PFC. ALLEEA OLIVER

According to Fort Bragg’s 2020 stat card, the total direct and indirect economic impact to the Cape Fear Region was $8,305,143,775.

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AN ECONOMIC

EVOLUTION Index Editor’s Note .......................................... 4 Health Care ........................................... 5 Achievers ........................................... 8, 9 Commercial Real Estate .......................11 Technology ...........................................12 Hospitality ...........................................16 The List ................................................18 Profile ..................................................23

From Camp Bragg to Fort Liberty, the local military installation’s economic impact is undeniable

F

ayetteville has long been a hub for the celebration of patriotism. Between winning the All-America City Award from the National Civic League three times, to the Heroes Homecoming celebration hosted since 2011 by the Fayette>>

By Jenna Shackelford

ville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau that honors veterans for their military service, to passing mentions of Fayetteville as being a “military town,” the correlation between the region’s image and the nearby military installation is clear.

Fort Bragg, which overlaps with several of the counties in Greater Fayetteville Business Journal’s footprint, including Cumberland, Moore, Hoke, and Harnett, was founded in 1918 as Camp Bragg.

It was home to 170 families.

In 1922, Camp Bragg was made into a permanent military installation and renamed Fort Bragg.

See EVOLUTION, page 7

Page 2

June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal

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Greater Fayetteville Business Journal

June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

ECONOMIC INDICATORS

bizfayetteville.com

RECENT UNEMPLOYMENT RATES UNITED STATES MAY 2022:

NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY FAYETTEVILLE MSA ROBESON COUNTY APRIL 2022: APRIL 2022: APRIL 2022: APRIL 2022:

3.4%

3.4%

5.1%

5.1%

5.8%

DOWN FROM MAY 2021:

DOWN FROM APRIL 2021:

DOWN FROM APRIL 2021:

DOWN FROM APRIL 2021:

DOWN FROM APRIL 2021:

HARNETT COUNTY HOKE COUNTY APRIL 2022: APRIL 2022:

MOORE COUNTY APRIL 2022:

RALEIGH MSA APRIL 2022:

SAMPSON COUNTY APRIL 2022:

3.8%

4.7%

3.3%

2.9%

3.3%

DOWN FROM APRIL 2021:

DOWN FROM APRIL 2021:

DOWN FROM APRIL 2021:

DOWN FROM APRIL 2021:

DOWN FROM APRIL 2021:

5.5%

5.0%

5.4%

7.1%

6.6%

4.7%

MARCH STATE SALES AND USE TAX COLLECTION (CUMBERLAND COUNTY) STATE SALES TAX COLLECTION MARCH 2022

$20,416,663

7.6%

7.0%

4.2%

Page 3

UP FROM STATE SALES TAX COLLECTION MARCH 2021

$18,182,854

4.4%

Source: NC Department of Revenue

Source: N.C. Department of Commerce

MARCH & APRIL MEDIAN HOME SALES PRICE

LABOR FORCE BY INDUSTRY (FAYETTEVILLE MSA)

(SINGLE-FAMILY, FAYETTEVILLE AREA)

OTHER SERVICES

250K

MANUFACTURING

3.53%

6.75%

GOVERNMENT

TRADE, TRANSPORTATION & UTILITIES

30.99%

200K

19.77%

LEISURE & HOSPITALITY

100K

2020

Source: Realtor.com

80 HOMES

2021

$189,000

$200,000

$170,000

$187,000

50K

$154,900

$143,000

13.57%

FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES 3.06%

EDUCATION & HEALTH SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL & BUSINESS SERVICES

12%

10.28%

2022

Source: NC Department of Commerce

2021 vs 2022 (APRIL) FAYETTEVILLE MSA CIVILIAN LABOR FORCE

SALES DAYS ON THE MARKET

(FAYETTEVILLE AREA)

200,000

70

LABOR FORCE

150,000

60

149,563 144,681

50

100,000

40

50,000

30 1/21

2/21

3/21

4/21

5/21

6/21

7/21

8/21

9/21 10/21

11/21 12/21

1/22

2/22

3/22

4/22

Source: Realtor.com/research

APRIL

2021

APRIL

2022

AVERAGE PRICE PER GALLON FOR REGULAR UNLEADED IN FAYETTEVILLE ON JUNE 14, 2022:

$4.67 AVERAGE PRICE PER GALLON IN FAYETTEVILLE ON JUNE 14, 2021:

$2.82

0 Source: N.C. Department of Commerce

Source: gasbuddy.com

Page 4

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal

June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

EDITOR'S NOTES

bizfayetteville.com

4424 Bragg Blvd, Fayetteville, NC 28303 910-240-9697 bizfayetteville.com PUBLISHER Marty Cayton martyc@bizfayetteville.com

Low-context vs. high-context culture

EDITOR Jenna Shackelford jennas@bizfayetteville.com COMMUNICATIONS & OUTREACH COORDINATOR/REPORTER Savanah Ramsey savanahr@bizfayetteville.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Charity Brandsma Diana Hansen Kathie Harris Jenna-Ley Jamison Monica Kreber Suet Lee-Growney CONTRIBUTING WRITER MARKETING CONTENT Stacie Borrello CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER Samantha Lowe samanthal@bizfayetteville.com ACCOUNTING Priscilla Nelson billing@bizfayetteville

The Greater Fayetteville Business Journal is published twice a month throughout Fayetteville and the Cumberland County region.

News related to the region’s business sector is posted daily at bizfayetteville.com.

SUBSCRIPTIONS Your free trial of Greater Fayetteville Business Journal is ending soon.

To subscribe, call 910-240-9697 or visit bizfayetteville.com/ subscribe. Subscriptions cost $9.95 per month or $95 per year.

REPRINT For article reprints, plaques and more contact Jenna Shackelford at 910-240-9697.

ADVERTISING For advertising information, please email us at marketing@bizfayetteville.com or call 910-240-9697. © Copyright 2022 Greater Fayetteville Business Journal CORRECTION: In a recent ranked list of 501(c)3 Nonprofits, the Special Forces Association was listed at No. 13. The organization is a 501(c) 19.

CHECKING YOUR COMMUNICATION BLIND SPOTS VOLODYMYR HRYSHCHENKO/UNSPLASH

People can express their needs in the workplace in two different ways – using low context or high context.

B

usinesspeople understand the importance of good communication, from lengthy email threads, quick texts to keep the team in the loop, to office meetings around the conference room table.

Recently, I stumbled across some insight into effective communication with a team when accomplishing tasks.

UNDERSTANDING CONTEXT CULTURE:

Say you’re needing help with a task. Do you hint or suggest that you could use help, or do you ask outright for assistance?

The first sort of communication is called a high context culture, meaning that you rely on the context of the situation at hand to signal to your coworker that you need help.

The second sort of communication is called low context culture, which is when you use a direct message to communicate your need.

A 2021 article from Glassdoor entitled “High Context Culture: What Does It Mean and How to Adapt” identifies several characteristics of the two kinds of cultures.

LOW CONTEXT CULTURE:

- “Work-related messages tend to be clear and direct.”

- “Communication and work styles tend to follow a monochronic schedule.”

- “Nonverbal communication can be considered noncommittal.”

- “Most forms of communication are verified or concluded in a written format.”

-

“Team members are more likely to turn to statistics or data to make decisions.”

“Employees place a high priority on schedules.”

“Work relationships tend to be open, short-term, and vary among teams and departments.”

“Projects tend to be structured by goals.”

“Knowledge is available to the public or all team members present.”

“Communication tends to be shorter and more to the point.”

“Work styles tend to be task-oriented.”

-

HIGH CONTEXT CULTURE:

-

“Being aware of nonverbal behaviors is important when developing relationships in the workplace.”

“Words are often taken at face value.”

“Questions may be more direct or personal in nature in order to deepen the relationship.”

“Communication and work styles tend to follow a polychronic schedule.”

“Conversations are usually in-person versus written.”

“An employee’s feelings may be used when making decisions.”

“Employees place a high priority on relationships in the workplace, sometimes over their schedules.”

“Work relationships tend to be categorized as either in-group or out-group, referring to the level of information that is shared with others.”

“There is a strong awareness in the group of who is considered in or out of the group.”

“Workplace decisions are often made

-

in-person, usually under the direction of an authority figure or leader.”

“Relationships take longer to build, but tend to last long-term.”

“The completion of projects requires building and maintaining relationships.”

-

Neither style is the right or wrong way to communicate. Rather, the two different styles can stem from cultural diversity, upbringing, or personal preference.

For someone who normally communicates more directly, they may view hinting as vague or unhelpful because they want a clear understanding of the needs of a team. For someone who communicates through hints and suggestions, they may not want to communicate more directly out of concern for inconveniencing someone else.

When I first came into my position at GFBJ in 2020, I was more of a high context communicator. Marty, our publisher, is a low context communicator. For the first few months of the job, we learned to overcommunicate with each other so as to avoid missing each other’s points.

Everyone has blind spots – and communication styles vary so vastly that it can be easy to misunderstand the people you work and live alongside. Understanding this key difference in communicating needs in the workplace can be helpful in recognizing ways that you can communicate more effectively and in understanding people who are communicating with you.

JENNA SHACKELFORD, Editor 910-240-9697, Ext 102 • jennas@bizfayetteville.com

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal >>

Staff Report

June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

bizfayetteville.com

HEALTH CARE

Page 5

DEREK FINCH/UNSPLASH

The ChenMed facility will be in a renovated existing facility, made possible by a North Carolina Department of Commerce Building Reuse Program grant.

Senior medical care

CHENMED TO LAUNCH MEDICAL CENTER GEARED TOWARD SENIORS OFF RAEFORD ROAD

T

he Fayetteville Cumberland Economic Development Corporation announced an update on the incoming arrival of ChenMed, the largest family-owned and physician-led primary care provider in the U.S., to Fayetteville.

The organization, which is opening a medical center in town, serves senior adults who partipate in the Medicare Advantage insurance plan through “VIP, concierge-style medical services to many of the most health-vulnerable, low-income, and underserved patients,” a press release said.

When Greater Fayetteville Business Journal first covered the arrival of ChenMed, it was to announce that the City of Fayetteville had been awarded a $300,000 grant from the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s Building Reuse Program in the Rural Health Category.

The department approved 15 grant requests to local governments at that time. “These Rural Infrastructure grants attract new, innovative businesses, allow existing business to expand, support health care, and bolster water and sewer service in our rural communities,” Governor

Cooper said. “All of these investments are key ingredients in creating and sustaining a strong, resilient economy.”

The grant will be used to renovate an existing 9,500-square-foot building at 4101 Raeford Road.

We are happy to “have received this grant and thrilled about what we will be able to bring to the community as a result. We’ll be able to reach more seniors with more services that will result in better health. We look forward to being a part of the community.”

— E.W. Tibbs Regional Vice President, ChenMed

“We are committed to ensuring that the seniors in our community have access to quality, affordable health care,” Fayetteville Mayor Mitch Colvin said. “ChenMed’s Dedicated Medical Center will help deliver care to Medicare Advantage members in underserved neighborhoods, improving the health outcomes for our residents. We welcome ChenMed to Fayetteville and are happy to support them as they renovate a vacant property for the first ChenMed facility in Fayetteville.”

ChenMed has 100 centers across 12 states, employing over 4,700 team members. At the Fayetteville location, ChenMed plans to create over 30 jobs with “benefits, including health insurance, and the company covers at least 60 percent of the cost of health insurance coverage,” for full-time employees, the press release said.

In particular, ChenMed is interested in hiring separating military service members, veterans, and military spouses.

“One of the many great things about the arrival of ChenMed is that their services are meant for some of the more vulnerable of our popu-

lation. Their primary care physician-to-patient ratio is much lower than the national average, and their focus is on preventative medicine and chronic illness management,” said Cumberland County Commission Chairman Glenn Adams. “This type of high-touch care has resulted in lowering ER visits and hospitalizations, so this is a great win for our region and for our seniors. The Medical Center will be highly beneficial in our community as a resource on eldercare and health equity issues.”

ChenMed offers a low patient panel assigned to each physician so that they can see patients once a month – ten times the national average. The average maximum patient panel for a ChenMed facility is 450 patients, which is an 85 percent smaller panel size than the average primary care physician.

E.W. Tibbs, Regional Vice President of ChenMed, said: “We are happy to have received this grant and thrilled about what we will be able to bring to the community as a result.

We’ll be able to reach more seniors with more services that will result in better health. We look forward to being a part of the community.”

Page 6

June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal

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Greater Fayetteville Business Journal >>

By Jenna Shackelford

June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

bizfayetteville.com

Page 7

MILITARY BUSINESS

From EVOLUTION, page 1

According to a report from the U.S. Army, World War I lended a boost to the population of Fort Bragg; a new highway, new barracks, and the headquarters for District A of the Civilian Conservation Corps, which supervised the work and administration of roughly 33 camps in the two Carolinas during the Great Depression were among some of the new additions to Bragg.

By the summer of 1940, the population of the installation had grown to 5,400 people; that number spiked to 67,000 within the next year.

Through many developments in services and real estate, the installation is now one of the largest on earth, boasting 48,000 active duty soldiers, 14,600 civilians, 72,0000 military families, and 120,000 retirees and veterans in the region who depend on Fort Bragg. The installation itself has a population of 270,000.

The continuous growth of Fort Bragg over the years undoubtedly impacts the local economy.

According to Fort Bragg’s 2020 stat card, the total direct and indirect economic impact to the Cape Fear Region was $8,305,143,775.

“Fort Bragg really has an unparalleled impact to the region,” said Rob Patton, executive vice president of Fayetteville Cumberland Economic Development Corporation, who is also a retired Army colonel. “That fiscal impact equates to about $8 billion a year. What makes Fort Bragg’s impact unique is that it is isolated against economic turmoil because the government doesn’t shut down.

We have that constant fiscal impact, as it relates to everything from salaries to dining to retail.”

For one, looking at the execution of federal prime contracts emphasizes this. In 2021, businesses executed $7.3 billion in federal prime contracts in North Carolina, according to the North Carolina Military Business Center.

“Each of these prime contracts and perhaps billions more in subcontracts – grows jobs, expands the economy and tax base and improves quality of life for everyone in North Carolina,” said NCMBC Executive Director Scott Dorney. “The defense and federal economy in North Carolina remained strong in 2021, as the COVID- and hurricane-related surge of 2020 passed and businesses across the state leveraged sustained opportunities to grow their federal business portfolios.”

Businesses in 15 counties performed over $75 million in federal

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ARMY PFC. ROGNIE ORTIZ VEGA PHOTO PROVIDED BY ARMY MASTER SGT. MICHEL SAURET

Although Fort Bragg has yet to be renamed, the Naming Commission is eyeing the name “Fort Liberty.”

prime contracts. Included among that list were Cumberland and Robeson County.

Another area where the impact of the military can be seen is in the technology industry. Aside from the largest floating solar power plant in the Southeast at Fort Bragg (see page 12), the military’s impact can be seen on the sector in transferable skills. According to the NCTECH Association’s most recent monthly snapshot of IT positions in the state, out of North Carolina’s 15 metropolitan statistical areas, Fayetteville ranked fifth in IT job postings in April, clocking in at 1,595 postings – a 62 percent increase from April 2021.

One could easily see the parallel between military skill sets and tech skill sets upon viewing the top ten credentials across the state. They included: Certified Info Systems Security Professional; Security Clearance; Secret Security Clearance; Certified Scrum Master; Certified Information Systems Auditor; Certified Information Security Manager; Cisco Certified Network Associate; Project Management Institute; Cisco Certified Network Professional; and Top Secret Sensitive Compartmented Information Clearance.

Between the sector’s demand and the talent in the region, educational institutions are seeking to bring in exiting military service members to fill the workforce’s gaps. UNCP recently announced that it is introducing a cybersecurity degree this fall (see page 14); Fayetteville Technical Community College launched an expansion of its partnership with Red Hat and the Transition Tech program that provides high quality IT training to military veterans; Fayetteville State University offers cy-

bersecurity certifications at its Center for Defense and Homeland Security for which military-affiliated students can use their Post-911 or Vocational Rehab Benefits to career-ready in under four months.

Additionally, Fayetteville State University announced free tuition for military connected students.

These are just a couple of examples of Fort Bragg’s impact, and the list goes on.

But soon enough, the installation may have a new name. Fort Bragg is one of ten military installations across the nation named after Confederate figures or supporters that have been mandated by the U.S. Congress to be renamed by 2023.

One of the names suggested, Fort Liberty, may be selected. The Fort Bragg Naming Commission said, “Liberty connects with U.S. Army Special Operation Command’s motto ‘De Opresso Liber,’ and the second stanza of the 82nd All-American song. In World War II, Liberty Makers were placed from Utah Beach to Bastogne as allied forces liberated French towns. According to the 1776 U.S. Declaration of Independence, all have a natural right to ‘life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.’”

A statement from The Naming Commission website described the history of liberty in America’s history, ending with a summary that reads, “In the 21st century, liberty remains the central tenet of America and its Army. Liberty graces our currency and our landmarks, and is essential to our founding documents. Liberty unites our varied politics – although different Americans have always held different ideas about how to best secure the blessings of liberty to the citizenry, they have always agreed that the enjoyment, enlargement, and

endorsement of liberty is paramount to our national purpose. Liberty continues to unite the Army. It features on crests, centers the Divisional song of the storied 82d Airborne Division, and anchors the motto of the equally heralded U.S. Army Special Forces.

'Where liberty dwells,’ Benjamin Franklin is rumored to have said, ‘there is my country.’ At the greatest moments of its history, the United States Army and its soldiers have earned our nation’s liberty, secured it for all Americans, and expanded it internationally. Fort Liberty symbolizes the U.S. Army’s defense of liberty for almost 250 years within our nation and throughout the world.”

The search for a new name has included input from the stakeholders and community members. Although Fort Liberty has not officially been approved, the Naming Commission must submit its recommendation to Congress by Oct. 1, 2022.

What will a new name mean for the iconic installation that has seen the arrival and departure of so many service members over the years and the impact that it has on the local economy? With businesses including Bragg in their branding and well-traveled roads such as Bragg Boulevard and Fort Bragg Road being frequented bearing the installation’s name, the question lingers.

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal previously reported that the cost of renaming Fort Bragg alone will cost approximately $7 million dollars; but time will tell if the namesakes of the military installation will change and how much those changes will cost. Greater Fayetteville Business Journal will continue reporting on this story as it develops.

Page 8

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal

June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

ACHIEVERS

bizfayetteville.com

Ramsey promoted to new role SAVANAH RAMSEY, a contributing writer and reporter for Greater Fayetteville Business Journal, has been promoted to the role of communications and outreach coordinator.

A 2021 graduate of Campbell Ramsey University, Ramsey joined the GFBJ team in January and has made a significant impact on the company.

“Already, she has helped facilitate the publication of our daily newsletters, written dozens of stories, assisted in the launch of our first-ever Book On Business, surveyed business contacts for the Book, attended networking events and made new connections for the company, and so much more,” said Editor Jenna Shackelford. “Congrats on the promotion, Savanah! Well deserved.”

Locklear awarded as UNCP’s first Provost Emeritus

INTERIM PROVOST DR. ZOE LOCKLEAR, who served the UNCP community for 32 years, has retired.

“I feel joyous, thankful, sad, appreciative and humbled,” she said. “I've had an incredible career doing the work that I've loved: serving Locklear UNCP, the public schools of North Carolina, working with incredible colleagues across this great state, helping young people become teachers –– especially teachers of children with special needs –– preparing principals, particularly for school districts in southeastern NC.” Locklear is making history for the university as the first-ever administrator to earn provost emeritus status.

“When her university called, she returned from retirement to lead once again, through what turned out to be one of the most challenging times our university has faced as we navigated a global pandemic,” Chancellor Robin Gary Cummings said in a press release.

“Her commitment to UNCP is inspiring. I’m honored we were able to award her as provost emeritus, signifying her impact and dedicated leadership to our university.”

Some of Locklear’s accomplishments include establishing a birth-kindergarten education pro-

What are you and your peers achieving? Have you reached a new goal? Have you acquired another business? Maybe your business has a new hire you would like to highlight.

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

To nominate someone for GFBJ’s Achievers section, email editor@bizfayetteville.com with the subject line “Achiever.” gram; a licensure program in English as a Second Language (ESL); a licensure program in academically and intellectually gifted education; and the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree. She assisted in reestablishing the Masters of School Administration (MSA) program, as well.

UNCP’s School of Education’s undergraduate and graduate programs received accreditation, thanks to Locklear. She played an integral part in the formation of assurance agreements with Tuskegee University’s Pre-Veterinary Program, Methodist University’s Physician Assistant Program as well as N.C. State University’s College of Engineering and College of Veterinary Medicine.

On her last day, the school’s Board of Governors approved two degrees – a Master of Occupational Therapy and bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity – that Locklear sought approval for alongside other faculty members.

“The university has meant so much to my family. My husband, Thomas, and I raised our children, Matthew and Elizabeth, around this campus, and that was a beautiful thing,” Locklear said. “We have all benefited from my life's work in so many ways, and I am so grateful. My heart is full, but I'm satisfied. I've worked hard and have loved it, but it's time for a slower, kinder, gentler pace.”

Lillington chamber welcomes new staff member ANNAMARIE MARINELLI has joined the Lillington Area Chamber of Commerce as the new administrative and community outreach coordinator.

Originally from Mechanicsville, Va., Marinelli holds a bachelor’s degree in English: General Writing from Gardner-Webb University in Boiling Springs, N.C. She earned a Master’s degree in Professional Writ-

ing from Liberty University.

“After college, my husband and I loved North Carolina so much that we decided to stay here,” Marinelli said Marinelli in a chamber press release. “We currently live in Fayetteville with future hopes of residing in Harnett County.”

The new opportunity is an exciting one, Marinelli says. “I enjoy building relationships with people and learning about their lives and experiences.

I am so excited for my new role at the LACC, and I look forward to serving the Lillington community. I hope to meet you all soon!”

Hoffman assumes role as Cape Fear Botanical Garden CEO CHRISTOPHER HOFFMAN is the new chief executive officer of Cape Fear Botanical Garden.

Hoffman joined the team in May. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture from Texas Tech University.

Some of Hoffman’s previous roles include president of the Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards from 2016-2018, although he served in a variety of positions with the organization over the years, and director of the Oklahoma City Zoo Hoffman and Botanical Garden from 2020-2022.

He is currently affiliated with the Mississippi Landscape Architectural Advisory Committee - MS Board of Architecture and American Society of Landscape Architects as well.

Hoffman is the recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award, Texas Tech College of Agricultural Scienc-

es and Natural Resources 2018; the 2021 Frank Condon Award for Environmental Excellence; and Finalist Team Builders - Project 2021 KOB Environmental Excellence issued by Keep Oklahoma Beautiful.

RAYWEST DESIGNBUILD receives elite membership RAYWEST DESIGNBUILD has proven to be a top retail contractor in the nation, acquiring a Retail Contractors Association membership earlier this year.

RCA is a national organization that was founded in 1990. Its members are “high-caliber retail contractors united to provide a solid foundation of ethics, quality and professionalism within the retail construction industry,” a press release said.

The lofty membership isn’t awarded to everyone. The organization’s board of directors rigorously vets applicants with strict criteria for membership.

In order to be a member company, a company must: be a general contractor with significant business operations in retail construction; have an excellent reputation in the industry including references; have been a general contractor for at least five years; and be properly licensed in all states where it conducts business.

Other factors that the board reviews are safety records, bond-ability, and appropriate insurance coverage.

“RCA demonstrates its quality by promoting excellence and ethical practices in the industry, establishing industry standards, fostering collaboration between retailers, developers and contractors, and exchanging ideas and industry trends,” the press release said.

Fayetteville State student named as HBCU scholar in White House initiative On June 10, the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through Historically Black Colleges and Universities announced its ninth cohort of HBCU See ACHIEVERS, page 9

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal

June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

ACHIEVERS

bizfayetteville.com

From ACHIEVERS, page 8

Scholars. Eighty-six students were recognized for their accomplishments.

“The HBCU Scholars announced today have dedicated themselves to their learning and exemplify the talent that our nation's Historically Black Colleges and Universities have nurtured for generations,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “The Biden-Harris administration is committed to supporting these leaders and I cannot wait to learn from them while they serve as ambassadors for the White House Initiative and their institutions.”

The scholars were selected from 56 of the HBCUs in the country, and the competitive pool had over 350 students. Moreover, the applications mandated the signature of their HBCU president or designated HBCU faculty.

ANTONIO ASHLEY of Wilmington, a Fayetteville State University student, was among the HBCU Scholars named.

“As an HBCU graduate, I’m hon-

ored to announce our HBCU Scholars, our future leaders of tomorrow.

At HBCUs, we are a family, we build each other up and we’re taught that we can do and be anything,” said Dietra Trent, Executive Director of the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence and Economic Opportunity through HBCUs. “I look forward to supporting the growth of our HBCU family through the Scholar Recognition Program.”

Local artist wins grant from South Arts South Arts, an organization committed to advancing southern vitality

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through the arts, recently announced recipients of its state fellowship for this year.

The fellowships were available to visual artists across nine states. Nine people were selected to receive a total of $80,000 in awards and be displayed in a touring exhibition.

Among those selected for a grant was MARCUS DUNN who lives and works in Fayetteville. His artistic medium is painting.

“Referencing from early images of Native American boarding schools across North America, I make paintings that explore cultural assimilation to reconstruct a historical narrative. As one part of a long history of removing, conforming or killing indigenous people in the U.S., these boarding schools were meant to assimilate Native American children into white society through means of oppression and annihilation of their culture,” he said in a statement. “I research these stories through found archival photographs from the Library of Dunn

Congress and other Internet sources, reinterpreted in paintings of loose, direct layers of brushwork. The method of documentation used to create the visual record of cultural removal is reframed in the paintings.

My work ranges from small to large scale to make a montage of acrylic paintings that radiate the spirit of the individual subjects. I'm interested in making the work in a fast, provisional, manner that explores the complexity of the boarding school stories, reflecting memory and its impact on the present.”

“The 2022 State Fellows are a testament to the robust creativity across our region,” said Susie Surkamer, president and CEO of South Arts. “Each State Fellow speaks to what it means to be an artist who lives, works, and creates in the South.

Through their work, we are exploring themes vital to our regional understanding, including climate change, cultural assimilation, self-identity, and police violence. South Arts is grateful to celebrate their vision with these awards.”

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Greater Fayetteville Business Journal

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal >>

By Savanah Ramsey

June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

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Page 11

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

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Support of the facility has come from local, state, and federal entities. The facility will increase private sector hiring of the military and their spouses.

HR Talent Portal FCEDC AWARDED $4M IN FEDERAL FUNDING TO BUILD FACILITY

M

ade possible by $4 million in federal Congressional appropriations, Fayetteville Cumberland Economic Development Corporation and the Community Development Foundation are leading the effort to build a transformational center that will help military personnel and their families secure employment.

Nearly 7,000 service members and 26,000 active military spouses transition to the private sector and live on or near Fort Bragg. Only 19 percent of those report adequate full-time employment.

“The 7,000 soldiers who separate annually from Fort Bragg represent the finest our nation has to offer,” FCEDC Vice President Rob Patton said. “Our job is to help retain that talent here and further grow our workforce. We see the HR Talent Portal as being a critical asset in talent management and ultimately in corporate recruitment to our region.”

The creation of the HR Talent Portal will substantially increase private sector hiring of the military, as well as support from the employ-

ment of military spouses. This portal will also connect veterans to career opportunities and encourage companies to establish a North Carolina presence.

Senator Thom Tillis helped secure the funding for the project through the Senate Committee on Appropriations with the support of the North Carolina delegation.

Currently, companies can begin training transitioning soldiers at the Career Skills Training Site, but the HR Talent Portal can expand the work being done, accommodate a backlog of inquiries from companies interested in building public-private partnerships, and boost employment in the area.

“Our service members at Fort Bragg develop a toolbox of critical leadership skills while serving our nation in uniform, and the community of Fayetteville has shown a commitment to ensuring they have a successful transition back to civilian life,” said Tillis. “I was proud to work with local Fayetteville leaders on the funding request for the HR Talent Portal project, and I’m excited to

“

“Our service members at Fort Bragg develop a toolbox of critical leadership skills while serving our nation in uniform, and the community of Fayetteville has shown a commitment to ensuring they have a successful transition back to civilian life,” said Tillis.

“I was proud to work with local Fayetteville leaders on the funding request for the HR Talent Portal project, and I’m excited to see the opportunities it creates for our transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses by providing them with the education and training needed to start their new careers.”

— Senator Thom Tillis

see the opportunities it creates for our transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses by providing them with the education and training needed to start their new careers.”

The HR Talent Portal promises to result in positive, measurable outcomes that will increase employment of transitioning service members and new employment opportunities for their families.

“The facility has already generated interest from dozens of technology companies, military contractors, and private sector employers seeking access to this powerful talent pipeline,” added Cumberland County’s Board of Commissioners Chairman, Glenn Adams. “We’re thrilled to see this project begin to take shape. Our goal is to continue to support, develop, and grow additional training and educational opportunities for our workforce.”

The facility is expected to lead to the successful recruitment of companies to Fayetteville, Cumberland County, and North Carolina.

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June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

TECHNOLOGY

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal

bizfayetteville.com

>>

By Savanah Ramsey

PHOTOS BY SAVANAH RAMSEY

The sollar array will power close to 735 homes and last up to 35-40 years.

Floating solar array NEW SYSTEM IS THE FIRST OF ITS KIND FOR DOD AND THE LARGEST IN THE SOUTHEAST UNITED STATES

O

n Friday, June 10, Army leaders, executives from Duke Energy and Ameresco gathered at Fort Bragg’s Camp Mackall for a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new floating solar array.

“Duke Energy is the first door into Fort Bragg as it is one of our marquee customers along with many military bases in the region,” stated Brain Savoy, chief commercial officer for Duke Energy.

Duke Energy has been working with Fort Bragg and provided resources on how the area can be more resilient with energy. Throughout the last couple of years, the company has completed several projects across the Southeast that resemble the one at Camp Mackall.

“With this opportunity and the water source in Camp Mckall, we thought, you know, let's be innovative. Let’s think about how to use this in a way that doesn’t disrupt the environment and allows clean energy in the area,” added Savoy.

Savoy went on to explain that North Carolina has become a leader in solar energy, and that Duke Energy is looking at every opportunity to advance the solar footprint in the state to drive cleaner forms of energy while taking into account the com-

“

When carbon-free energy expands for a region, it opens eyes to businesses. They say ‘We can do that too!’ and then maybe they use their rooftops or warehouses as a place for solar. I think this is a great way to open the door for other opportunities with businesses” — Brain Savoy Chief commercial officer, Duke Energy

munities they will be located in.

Not only will this benefit the local bases and local families in the area, but it will also help surrounding businesses.

“When carbon-free energy expands for a region, it opens eyes to businesses. They say, ‘We can do that too!’ and then maybe they use their rooftops or warehouses as a place for

solar. I think this is a great way to open the door for other opportunities with businesses,” said Savoy.

The array is first of its kind in the Department of Defense and the largest floating system in the Southeast United States. The 1.1 megawatt floating solar system is located on Big Muddy Lake in the heart of Camp Mackall and includes a 2-MW/2 megawatt-hour battery energy storage system.

With the amount of energy being produced with the panels on Big Muddy Lake, it will power close to 735 homes and last up to 35-40 years.

With the system operating it will provide carbon-free energy, supplemental power to the local grid, and backup power for Camp Mackall during electricity outages.

The event began with the playing of the national anthem before following with introductions to speakers.

“We are grateful for our relationship with Duke Energy and Ameresco,” said Colonel Scott Pence, garrison commander for Fort Bragg.

“With this system, the largest solar array in the Southeast, we will be able to provide energy resiliency to Fort Bragg operations through sustainable resources. With this partnership, Fort Bragg not only has renew-

able electricity, but energy security that will be critical with continuing the installation’s mission during a power outage.”

This project will directly support the Army’s mission to enhance readiness, save energy, leverage resources and reduce long-term operating costs.

“This project is an excellent example of what the Army is trying to achieve as stated in the Army Climate Strategy and the Army’s Energy and Water Strategic Plan,” said Honorable Rachel Jacobson, the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Energy and Environment. “It provides carbon-free electricity and supports the Army’s efforts to increase reliance on clean energy while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. When we collaborate with utilities and industry to promote energy resilience while powering the local grid, it is a winning solution across the board.”

The event finished with the celebration cutting a ribbon to signal the official “opening” and use of the array solar panels, followed by refreshments.

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal

>>

June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

Staff Report

PREMIER SERVICE PROVIDER

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY VISIT NC

The rest area that is being replaced was closed earlier this year.

New I-95 rest area/welcome center

FACILITY IN ROBESON COUNTY TO BE REPLACED

T

he Interstate 95 rest area and welcome center in Robeson County will be getting a new modern building, thanks to the $4.6 million contract awarded by the North Carolina Department of Transportation.

The current rest area opened 25 years ago, and the separate welcome center building dates back to the late 1960s.

A contractor will demolish the current center, the rest area, and vending building and replace them under one roof. The new welcome center will be 6,500-square feet and will feature

energy-efficient lighting, plumbing, heating and air conditioning.

The NCDOT closed the rest area exit, located 5 miles north of the North Carolina-South Carolina line, earlier this year. Since then, the department has been doing parking lot repairs and other upgrades.

The next rest area on I-95 North is 43 miles away in Cumberland County, where the welcome center was relocated into a smaller space until completion of the new building.

In the last year, the Robeson County welcome center estimated 1.1 million visitors.

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June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal

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Staff Report

UNCP offers new degrees

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY AND CYBERSECURITY DEGREES TO BOOST WORKFORCE

T

he University of North Carolina at Pembroke will expand its academic landscape with two new academic programs – a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy and a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity.

The university will introduce the undergraduate degree this fall and students can begin applying for the MSOT program in the 2023-2024 academic year, with classes being offered in fall 2024.

“As an institution of higher education, our ability to develop academic programs that will transform the lives of our students largely depends on the efforts of our faculty,” said Provost Marsha Pollard.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, cybersecurity and occupational therapy are two of the most in-demand professions and fastest-growing career areas nationally. The cybersecurity workforce needs to grow by 145 percent to meet the demand globally.

In the U.S. the field of cybersecurity needs to increase by 62 percent.

ADI GOLDSTEIN/UNSPLASH

Data from the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that the school’s new degrees will help graduates fill gaps in the workforce.

UNCP currently offers cybersecurity tracks with undergraduate programs in computer science and information technology. These tracks within computer science and information technology have increased 119 percent since 2019 and 44 percent in the past year.

Dr. Selvarajah Mohanarajah, chair of the Department of Math and Computer Science, was among the faculty who helped build the program.

"There is a massive demand for

cybersecurity professionals," Mohanarajah said. “This major is built on a technical foundation of computing and IT and utilizes technology, systems, information, and people and processes to ensure secure cyber operations. The major is one of only two in the UNC System.”

At the same time, the employment of occupational therapists is projected to grow 16 percent from 2019 to 2029.

However, the rate of occupational therapists per 10,000 population in

bizfayetteville.com

the UNCP service region falls below the state average.

UNCP will be the only public institution in southeastern North Carolina offering a graduate degree in occupational therapy. The MSOT will prepare a health workforce that is already facing a shortage in southeastern North Carolina and is predicted to increase by an additional 17 percent by 2030.

"The College of Health Sciences is excited about the approval of the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy," said Dr. Cherry Beasley, interim dean of the College of Health Sciences.

UNCP established the College of Health Sciences in 2018 and implemented goals to meet the needs of southeastern North Carolina set by the General Assembly.

"We are looking forward to working closely with our community partners to design the program and provide exceptional learning opportunities for students and practice opportunities for faculty," Beasley said. >>

Staff Report

Golden LEAF scholarship recipients LOCAL STUDENTS AMONG RECIPIENTS OF ACADEMIC FINANCIAL AWARDS

G

olden LEAF, an organization committed to encouraging economic growth in rural, tobacco-dependent, and economic distressed communities, announced that it would award 215 people across the state with scholarships.

The students were eligible to receive up to $14,000.

“We are proud to award scholarships to hardworking and bright students with deep roots in their rural communities,” said Scott T. Hamilton, Golden LEAF Foundation President, Chief Executive Officer. “These students were selected out of a pool of more than 1,600 applicants. We look forward to the future success of these scholarship recipients as they follow their education pursuits and develop into North Carolina’s next generation of rural leaders.”

Among the students selected to

The North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority administers the Golden LEAF scholarship program and selects students for awards.

receive the scholarship were several within the Greater Fayetteville Business Journal’s coverage area.

In Bladen County, the student selected was Haleigh Fields from West Bladen High School who plans to attend Gardner-Webb University.

In Harnett County, William Nesbitt of Harnett Central High School was selected for the scholarship. He has plans to attend Western Carolina University.

The Hoke County recipients were Justus Brewington of Hoke County

High School and Amber Locklear of SandHoke Early College High School. Brewington plans to attend University of North Carolina at Pembroke and Locklear plans to attend North Carolina State University.

Robeson County had five recipients of scholarships from Golden LEAF: Ava Cox, homeschooled and NCSSM; Caroline Cummings, Purnell Swett High School; Sarah Lowry, Purnell Swett High School; Emma Norman, Lumberton Senior High School; and Aiyana Oxendine, Fairmont High School. Cox will attend Methodist University; Cummings will attend University of North Carolina at Pembroke; Lowry will attend University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Norman will attend Appalachian State University; and Oxendine will attend University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal

June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

Now that I’ve had bariatric surgery, I’ve lost a bunch of weight and it’s only the beginning. This surgery is a chapter in my life that is going to change the course of my story.

Jeremiah Smith had always been an active guy and never let his weight stand in the way of doing the things he loved, like kayaking. For him, bariatric surgery was a way to extend the quality of the years he had left. Smith had surgery, stuck to the diet and is down almost 100 pounds.

Learn more about Jeremiah’s journey and how bariatric surgery can change the course of your story at capefearvalley.com/bariatric.

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HOSPITALITY

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By Savanah Ramsey

A New View

O

LEADERS HAVE POSITIVE OUTLOOK WHEN IT COMES TO FUTURE OF FAYETTEVILLE REGION

n Tuesday, June 7, the Greater Fayetteville Business Journal hosted its fourth quarterly Power Breakfast at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden.

Businesspeople from different organizations throughout the community gathered together at the sold-out event to listen to a panel of recent leaders to the area and learn about their backgrounds, their plans and how their perceptions of Fayetteville may not match up with long-standing views of our community.

The panel included Chancellor Darrell T. Allison from Fayetteville State University, General Manager and CEO of Fayetteville Public Works Commission Elaina Ball, and Fayetteville Woodpeckers General Manager Steve Pelle. “‘A New View.’ What does that mean?” asked Publisher Marty Cayton in his opening remarks. “We want to give a new perspective of Fayetteville. So who better knows that then these leaders that are on the stage right now coming from different areas of the country and different backgrounds.”

When reflecting back on the start of the Greater Fayetteville Business Journal, one of the difficulties that was experienced is the naysayers in the area.

Cayton pointed out that, despite the negative talk, the speakers decided Fayetteville was somewhere they wanted to live and work. He asked them what considerations they made to move to the area.

“There’s only 120 of these jobs around the country,” said Pelle. “Me and my wife were born and raised in Southern California, and when talking about my wife, she’s a vocal coach and she didn’t want to extend that into the next 18 years. This was really scary for us moving across the country because we’ve never lived anywhere else.”

And since coming to Fayetteville, Pelle has been pleased with the upbeat community and he has found here.

Both Allison and Ball followed up with their own considerations for moving to the area, which aligned similar to Pelle’s in the fact that the decision was made in support of their families.

Cayton then asked each panlist to describe some challenges each

PHOTO PROVIDED BY EZEKIEL BEST

Fayetteville State University Chancellor Darrell T. Allison, PWC CEO Elaina Ball, and Woodpeckers General Manager Steve Pelle spoke at Greater Fayetteville Business Journal’s Power Breakfast on June 7.

panelist had seen in the community and how their organization can help solve them.

“I think one of our biggest challenges is that there are a lot of people out there that still see us, the community, PWC through a naysayer point of view,” said Ball. “I think what we really need is a great big shot of self confidence because we have so much room to grow.”

Allison followed up with explaining his frustrations with media coverage missing out on opportunities of growth happening not only in the education system but also the community.

“We recently had a football player from FSU drafted to the NFL, and the draft happened on Sunday, so the next day I am flipping through the paper, and I see a story of a football player drafted from N.C. State. So I keep flipping and I get to the back and see ‘Pros and Cons of Joshua in the NFL,’” explained Allison.

Allison continued by saying it is FSU’s goal to make sure they get their name and news out there so nothing is ever missed out on again.

Near the end, there was allotted time for audience members to send in questions to be answered. The first question asked was, “What would you say to the Fayetteville natives and what would you say to the people that want to relocate to our region?”

“Coming from California, you know just the cost of living on its own,” said Pelle. “So that’s a plus but I don’t understand why everyone asks the same question. ‘Where are you from?’ ‘What do you do?’ and you tell them and the very next question is ‘What are you doing there?’”

Pelle went on to add that the negativity around Fayetteville needs to stop.

The second question brought up conversation about why it's important to include an unconventional leadership and youthful influences into development and if the organizations are willing to bring them in.

“We've added some CEOs of businesses that are actually here to Fayetteville State University’s internship program,” said Allison. “We’ve been very intentional in making sure our students receive great grades so businesses in the community can see the academic achievement in the students.”

Allison went on to add that FSU ensures that their students are getting their foot in the door and gaining the best hands on experience they can now with paid internship opportunities. Allison introduced one of its paid interns at the event to showcase the work that FSU has done to support its student’s futures.

To wrap up the event, Cayton spoke on what those in attendance

could do with what they had learned from the speakers and proactively use it in the community.

“If you can do anything, just take some of this information that you’ve heard and make a difference,” stated Cayton in his closing remarks.

“Change the way we respond to some of the things discussed today and think about what we're about to say and be willing to correct what we need to say at times.”

The Power Breakfast was sponsored by the North Carolina Military Business Center and Fayetteville State University. AV and staging was done by Five Star Entertainment and catering provided by Two Brothers Catering.

The Greater Fayetteville Business Journal plans to continue offering opportunities for networking and digging deeper into important topics within the business community and is ready to put on its next event.

The Journal hosts Power Breakfast on a quarterly basis and is a premier networking event in the region. Past themes have included “For Our Defense'' and “Entrepreneurs & Acquirers.” To stay in the loop about future Power Breakfasts, subscribe to Greater Fayetteville Business Journal’s daily emails at BizFayetteville. com/Subscribe.

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal

>>

Staff Report

Greater Sandhills Chamber opens KERR LEADS CHAMBER IN SPRING LAKE

O

n May 2, the Greater Sandhills Chamber opened its doors in Spring Lake. The occasion was celebrated with a Business Shower and Open House at the office.

The Chamber is located at 127 North Main Street and is led by President Taneshia Kerr.

Kerr formerly served as the interim CEO of the Greater Fayetteville Chamber.

On June 13, Kerr made a special presentation to the Town of Spring Lake Board of Alderman. This presentation included details for the plans for development and issues during the Chamber’s first year of operation.

Issues of priority included economic development, small business

educate, build relationships and be an advocate for businesses while enhancing the quality of life in the community.

Other members of the Greater Sandhills Chamber include Vice President Tracy Morrison, Treasurer Nisa Love, Sina Cooper, Teddy Warner, Devon Newton, Diana Potts, Brandon Hall, Kia McMillan, and Kia Anthony.

education, and the development of the necessary support structures for commerce to thrive. The plan also included plans to launch the Spring Ahead Business Accelerator with resources and training.

“Greater Sandhills Chamber, Inc is the result of hard work and perseverance which will benefit the business community in our region far into the future,” Alderwoman Sona Cooper said. “I am proud to serve on the board of directors with so many distinguished individuals and hope others will join us as we embark on this journey together, working as one, to improve us all.”

The mission of the Greater Sandhills Chamber of Commerce is to preserve and promote a strong economy,

PHOTO PROVIDED BY TANESHIA KERR

The mission of the Greater Sandhills Chamber of Commerce is to preserve and promote a strong economy, educate, build relationships and be an advocate for businesses while enhancing the quality of life in the community.

“We are at a critical point in our economic recovery,” Kerr said. “The Greater Sandhills Chamber has mobilized as the fulcrum for resource partners and community investors to help new businesses launch and provide support for the big businesses that anchor the region. We invite individuals, nonprofits and businesses large and small to join us. We are your Chamber, and we are ready to serve your business needs.”

June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

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Greater Fayetteville Business Journal

June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

THE LIST

bizfayetteville.com

Event Facilities

Ranked by total square feet of meeting space FACILITY/ ADDRESS/ PHONE/ WEBSITE

RANK

1 2 3 4

SQUARE FEET OF LARGEST ROOM/ NUMBER OF ROOMS/ ROOM PRICING

55,000/ 315

52,000/ 2/ Venue 1:7 hours $1,700, 9 hours $2,000, 12 hours $2,400. Venue 2:4 hours $650, 6 hours $850.

Event Space/ Yes/N/A

60,000/ 6,500

60,000/ 4/ $5,500

18,000/ 950

OTHER AMENITIES

GENERAL MANAGER

YEAR FOUNDED

Vendors, caters, decorations, music/ video/photo, ballon artist, makeup/hair, cakes, DJs, bar.

Marvin Baker

2018

Event facility/Exposition Center/ Yes/N/A

Tables and chairs, podium, staging, production, staffing, and housekeeping.

Seth Benalt

1987

10,000/ 46/ $1,900 for entire building

Meeting space/ No/ 463

Bar services, wifi and security

Ray Jordan

1985

11,156/ 600

7,144/ 6/ Call for pricing.

Classroom, Grand Hall, Orangery, Entry Pavillon/ No/ 215

Two prep kitchens, outdoor lawns and terraces, 80 acres of botanical gardens, wifi, free parking.

Sheila Hanrick

1989

10,000/ 500-800

7,500/ 1/ Prices vary.

Event venue/ No/ 138

Full catering-kitchen with no staff, lawn area, chairs and tables, dance floor, bar, and more.

Holly Neal

1917

8,167/N/A

3,250/ 4/ Can rent whole facility or separate.

Banquet Space/ No/ 0

Tables and chairs, bar services, restrooms, interior garden, bank vault.

Krista Giles

2012

8,000/ 1000

8,000/ 4/ $2,500

Event venue/Hospitality/ room/ Yes/N/A

Tables and chairs, podium, staging, production, staffing, and housekeeping.

Seth Benalt

1997

7,200/ 280

6,100/ 2/ Main room: 12 hours, Fri.-Sun. $2,750-$4,750. Weekdays $1,500 starting five hours and up.

Moderate warehouse, event and wedding venue/ No/ 250

Vendor flexibility, table and chairs.

Taryn Corrado

2016

6,400/ 199

6,400/ 1/ Pricing varies

Wedding/event venue/N/A/ 60

His/her dressing rooms and restrooms, and outdoor gazebo.

Sandy White

2021

6,000/ 250

500/NA/ $5,000

Event Facility/ Yes/N/A

Tables and chairs, catering, swimming pool, full service

Allan Hargis

3,000/ 350

1,500/N/A/ N/A

Industrial chic event venue/ N/A/ N/A

tables and chairs, partnership with local hotel for guests, prep kitchen, bathroom.

Leanna Grace Caddell

2017

1,800/ 75

1,400/ 1/ Pricing Varies.

Additional seating on patio, tables and chairs, wifi, indoor and outdoor speakers, and prep kitchen.

Christina McMaster

2021

1,800/ 125

N/A/1/ Weddings $3,700, $50 an hour for no alcohol-$75 an hour with alcohol.

Event Facility/ No/ N/A

Decor, tables and chairs, linen, kitchen and bath, bar premitted.

Holly Lockamy

2017

1,200/ 100

1,200 1 N/A

Banquet Space/ No/ 0

Tables and chairs, decor rental items available, prep kitchen, and restrooms.

Krista Giles

2002

900/ 50

900 1 $75 an hour.

Event facility/ Yes/ N/A

Sound bar(music) and caters deserts.

J. Blake

2020

INTRIGUE VENUE

2724-A Bragg Blvd.

Fayetteville , N.C. 28303 910-500-3820 N/A

CROWN EXPOSITION CENTER

1960 Coliseum Dr. Fayetteville, N.C. 28306 910-438-4100 http://www.crowncomplexnc.com/

SAMPSON COUNTY EXPOSITION CENTER

414 Warsaw Rd. Clinton, N.C. 28328 910-592-6451 https://www.sampsonexpocenter.com/

CAPE FEAR BOTANICAL GARDEN 536 N Eastern Blvd.

Fayetteville, N.C. 28301 910-486-0221 https://www.capefearbg.org/

TYPE OF SPACE/ CATERING SERVICES OFFERED/ NO. OF PARKING SPACES

TOTAL SQUARE FEET OF MEETING SPACE/ SEATING CAPACITY

THE FAIR BARN

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 12 14 15

200 Beulah Hill Rd. S. Pinehurst, N.C. 28374 910-295-0166 https://www.vopnc.org/our-government/ departments/fair-barn

SKYVIEW ON HAY

121 Hay St. Fayetteville, N.C. 28301 910-486-4466 http://www.skyviewonhay.com/

THE CROWN BALLROOM

1960 Coliseum Dr. Fayetteville, N.C. 28306 910-438-4100 http://www.crowncomplexnc.com/

STUDIO 215

215 Williams St. Fayetteville, N.C. 28301 910-703-7525 http://www.studio215events.com/

THE VENUE AT BAREFOOT FARMS

6304 NC-131 Hwy, Bladenboro, NC 28320 Bladenboro, N.C. 28320 910-867-2133 N/A

SIMPLY DIVINE EVENTS & LODGING

309 W. Divine St. Dunn, N.C. 28334 910-292-2446 https://www.simplydivinebedandbreakfast.com/

305 TRACKSIDE

305 NW Broad St. Southern Pines, N.C. 28387 910-634-0446 https://305trackside.com/

SOIRÉE ON SOUTH

111 W. South St. Aberdeen, N.C. 28315 760-267-3026 https://soireeonsouth.mystrikingly.com/

LOCKAMY PLANTATION

941 Oak Grove Church Rd. Angier, N.C. 27501 919-524-3355 N/A

RAINBOW ROOM

223 Hay St. Fayetteville, N.C. 28301 910-486-4466 http://www.rainbowroom.biz/

GOLDSTAR EVENT CENTER

2918 N. Elm St. Lumberton, N.C. 28358 910-785-2911 N/A

Flex Space/ N/A/ N/A

List is based on voluntary responses to a Business Journal survey.

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Greater Fayetteville Business Journal

June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

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June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal

BIZ LEADS Reader’s Guide BizLeads is a collection of information gathered from greater Fayetteville courthouses, state government offices and information websites. The listings are intended to help the business community find new customers and stay on top of happenings with current customers, vendors and competitors.

New Corporations lists firms from the Greater Fayetteville Business Journal region that were recently incorporated in the State of North Carolina.

CUMBERLAND COUNTY Nation of Empires LLC 9128 Colliers Chapel Church Rd Linden Agent: Sandra Elliott Fatsky's Frenchies LLC 3529 Rittenour Dr Hope Mills Agent: William S. Murchison II Maximum Results Weight Loss Center PLLC 3601 Cape Center Drive Fayetteville Agent: Kelly Helton Dice Land LLC 2503 Southern Ave Unit 64221 Fayetteville Agent: Vinson Lovick LGM/HMR Company LLC 1642 Thicket Road Fayetteville Agent: William Lee Monroe Jr. Unlimited Church 5200 Catalpa Road/310 Sandalwood Road Fayetteville Agent: Melony Riles

MAKE IT TRANSPORT LLC 4801 MONTICELLO AVE HOPE MILLS Agent: KISHA D REGAN BRIGHT' HOMESTYLE FOODS LLC 109 Giza Drive Apt 8G Fayetteville Agent: Bright Yeboah WR & JT INC 2606 Raeford Rd Fayetteville Agent: Professional Technology Services Inc. Cruz's Plumbing LLC 710 Johnson St Fayetteville Agent: Octavio Esteban Cruz Cape Fear High School Athletic Booster Club Inc. 4762 Clinton Rd Fayetteville Agent: Jean Bullard Candy Jar Creations LLC 1104 Donny Brook Ct Fayetteville Agent: Deborah M Harper Gabe's Pool and

Spa Services Corporation 847 Durwood Drive Fayetteville Agent: Gabriel Zarate

Long Hair Don't Care Records LLC 2770 Breezewood Avenue Fayetteville Agent: Lynne Robertson O'Quinn

STEPHANY PLACENCIO ART Inc. 2904 Rosemeade Dr Fayetteville Agent: Stephany Joseiry Placencio Arias

A Euneque Collection; LLC 5313 Miranda Drive Hope Mills Agent: Sable Euneque Jones Mrs.

ESL Solutions Science & Technology LLC 764 Chadwick Road Fayetteville Agent: EVAN LEE WOLF HOME SOLUTIONS LLC 632 Prestige Blvd Fayetteville Agent: Kamil Baldyga Jones Hill 7 LLC 2910 Beringer Dr Fayetteville Agent: Deborah Jones Baker MGE TRANSPORTATION LLC 2937 Braddy Rd Fayetteville Agent: Enrique Miranda JOSE & DAMIAN EXPRESS LLC 100 Hay Street Ste 503 Fayetteville Agent: Abundant Living Consulting Corporation LLC Educated Blessyns Incorporated 2133 Skyview Drive Fayetteville Agent: Brandy Elam

mrs R LLC 7898 Burwell Dr Fayetteville Agent: Cesar Ignacio Ruiz LENI LOUNGE L.L.C. 6921 CANDLEWOOD DR FAYETTEVILLE Agent: BRIANNA THORNTON Triple E Logistics LLC 3344 Amour Drive Fayetteville Agent: Tracie Michelle Clark CHATEAU DE GENEL LLC 1644 SEATTLE SLEW LANE HOPE MILLS Agent: SHAHEEDAH EUSEBE SunDance Property Rental. LLC 816 Elm Street, PO 36125 Fayetteville Agent: Sue A McCann A+Staffing Inc 907 Hay Street Suite 100 B1 Fayetteville Agent: Gloria Brooks Julios Collision & Motorsports LLC

307 Downing St Fayetteville Agent: Julio Cotty Her.Power LLC 6530 Brookshire st Fayetteville Agent: Jessica Herbert POP UP DATE'NITE LLC 5075 Morganton rd ste 10C Fayetteville Agent: MICHAEL CODY FOOTE SIMPLY MONOLITHIC LLC 2304 Wingate Rd CUMBERLAND Agent: MICHAEL WATSON Mounsey and Son LLC 5443 Ahoskie Dr ope Mills Agent: gary richard mounsey jr SAINT PIERR INCORPORETED 988 MILLSTREAM ROAD FAYETTEVILLE Agent: BENTHAM HARLOW GARVEY MR Rediscover Beauty Lounge LLC 6516 Dental Lane Suite A Fayetteville Agent: Ebonitta A Boykin GBS Bullies LLC 4133 Mckinnon Rd Fayetteville Agent: Mario D Graham Trap N'Transit LLC. 871 Shell Drive Apt 258 Spring Lake Agent: Shaddorin

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LaShea Amerson Best Ink 910 LLC. 3859 GLENCORRA DR Fayetteville Agent: CUAUHTEMOC GONZALEZ Blush and Blade LLC 227 Old Street Fayetteville Agent: Amanda Schall

Box LLC 100 Hay Street Ste 503 Fayetteville Agent: Abundant Living Consulting Corporation LLC SNS Sylvanus LLC 100 Hay Street Ste 503 Fayetteville Agent: Abundant Living Consulting Corporation LLC

The Ladee Brand LLC 5075 Morganton Rd Ste 10C # 1369 Fayetteville Agent: Villette Rachelle Jones

Straight Drop Wings & Things LLC 3421C Murchison Rd Fayetteville Agent: Gail Flowers

Summit Way Investments LLC 2465 Gray Goose Loop Fayetteville Agent: Renee Paul

Akers Commonwealth LLC 451 Tradewinds Dr Apt H Fayetteville Agent: Armonta Rudell Akers

On the Way Transportation and Logistics L.L.C. 5075 Morganton Rd Ste 10C #1370 Fayetteville Agent: Jonee Victoria Jackson THE HAIR LOUNGE & SPA LLC 2620 Bragg Blvd Ste D Fayetteville Agent: Beyah's Accounting & Tax Service LLC All Things New Cleaning & Lawncare LLC 100 Hay St Ste 503 Fayetteville Agent: Abundant Living Consulting Corporation LLC Madison's Jewelry

Ethereal Psychonaut LLC 5516 Winners Cir Hope Mills Agent: David S McMillan Jr Hardin Investment Group LLC 6054 Braxton Rd Hope Mills Agent: Heather Nicole Hardin Livvy’s Locs LLC 1216 Huntsman Ct Fayetteville Agent: Jalyssa Williams A and M Chips inc.

5847 Nicolet Dr Hope Mills Agent: michael maurice marquart

Shannon Holdings LLC 5623 Sheraton Dr Fayetteville Agent: Reginald Curtis Ford Aj Purpose Driven Trucking llc 3059 north main suite hopemills Agent: Tiaria I Mcphun She'Qute Hair Braiding LLC 114 Mullins Ave. Fayetteville Agent: Shaquan Des'monique Bailey Harris Entertainment & Rentals LLC 3425 Amour Dr Fayetteville Agent: Takenya Nicole Harris KftRocks LLC 2978 Gillespie St Fayetteville Agent: Iche Chiu The Clean Wai LLC 2818 Norcliff dr Fayetteville Agent: Gingi L See-Wai Heavy Rotation LLC 6277 Lakehaven Dr Fayetteville Agent: Margaret Johnson CAITLIN SY REALTY CORP. 1549 VANDENBERG DRIVE FAYETTEVILLE Agent: CAITLIN SY Katie Nails Inc 2800 Gillespie St Ste 132 Fayetteville Agent: NGHIA

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal

June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

BIZ LEADS

bizfayetteville.com

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VIP MEDICAL TRANSPORT LLC 409-4 SUNNYACRES DRIVE FAYETTEVILLE Agent: GERALD RAY BAGLEY

King’s Logistics LLC 2137 Grand Prix Dr Fayetteville Agent: Sha’mond L Squires

The Uniform Stop LLC 1610 Shively Ct Fayetteville Agent: Tamiko L Matthews

Htiee & Shee Asian Cuisine & Sushi LLC 5815 Permastone Lake RD. Hope Mills Agent: Saw Thar Wah

Touch By Angels Softball League Inc. 1559 Rossmore Drive Fayetteville Agent: Dameion Paul Pew Brothers Inc. LLC 4644 Woodline Dr. Fayetteville Agent: Charles Andrew Jacobs II The girl's transportation haul services LLC 6310 Abbotts Park Rd A Fayetteville Agent: Nichole Wilson Presnell Enterprise LLC 1529 Clinton Rd. Fayetteville Agent: Billy Joe Presnell Jr MAZHomes LLC 2337 Volta Dr Fayetteville Agent: Melissa Zappas Brothers Who Made It LLC 6554 Brookshire St Fayetteville Agent: Dylan Gab-

Aerial Gardens LLC 3208 Green Valley Rd Fayetteville Agent: Taylor Boneski RP Pressure Washing LLC 990 Eastman Rd Fayetteville Agent: Robert Mcrae The beauty of black people (B.B.P.) Limited Liability Company 5118 Longbranch Drive Fayetteville Agent: Nicholas Stephens Albarati Dreams Inc 120 Rowan St Fayetteville Agent: Hashed O Albarati PaigeVic Ventures LLC 6400 Rolling Meadows Lane Fayetteville Agent: Paige Victoria Williams P&M Services LLC 912 Burbank St

Fayetteville Agent: Nahun Peraza Clemons Prime Group LLC 108 Woodside Ave Fayetteville Agent: John D. Clemons Coleman Landscaping LLC 3345 Red Fox Rd Spring Lake Agent: Alicia Ascencio-Romero S.O.Y Season of Yes LLC 1636 Laguardia Drive Hope Mills Agent: Keiana Latece Thornton Eila G. Candle Company LLC 4660 Mill Creek Rd Fayetteville Agent: Kayla Marie Williams HANSONG L.L.C 1126 Reflex St Fayetteville Agent: Jin Benavidez A M Renovations LLC 1225 Stanfield Dr Fayetteville Agent: Angel De Jesus Martinez KJE Enterprises LLC 4205 Kirkwood Place Fayetteville Agent: George D Regan Jr NHOS INC 2854 Aristocrat Ln Fayetteville Agent: Abdurabu Al Garadi Ballz Beez LLC

3816 Riverland Drive Fayetteville Agent: Yajaira Santiago ROBERT'S HANDYMAN SERVICES INC. 854 Stoneykirk Dr Fayetteville Agent: Robert Dunham Jr Black Kingz MC Fayetteville NC LLC 6459 Rhemish Drive Fayetteville Agent: Nathan Edwards Invisible Concepts & Solutions LLC 439 Westwood Shopping Center Suite 149 Fayetteville Agent: Micah Rawlins MCMEALZ&RIBS LLC 5804 Rivercroft Rd Fayetteville Agent: Julian McMillan Annondale on Santa Fe LLC 1019 Hay Street Fayetteville Agent: Jackson Howard End to End Enterprise Solutions LLC 100 Hay Street Ste 503 Fayetteville Agent: Abundant Living Consulting Corporation LLC 3LA Ohana LLC 100 Hay Street Ste 503

Fayetteville Agent: Abundant Living Consulting Corporation LLC

Rd Ste 10C Fayetteville Agent: Tammy L Burden

Fireball LLC 6145 Woodspring Dr Hope Mills Agent: William Michael Shorter

A & A Janitorial Services LLC 233 Waterdown Drive Fayetteville Agent: Crystal E Clark

Sunny Days Child Development Services L.L.C. 6229 Hackberry Dr Apt B Hope Mills Agent: Chantel Bryant Chillwater & Co Distributions LLC 6808 Shawcross Lane Fayetteville Agent: Patrick Bower Clary Family Freight LLC 5269 Parkton Rd Hope Mills Agent: Andre Clary Controlled Chaos Firearms & Accessories LLC 305 English Oaks Dr Unit 13 Fayetteville Agent: Camera Alexandria Dixon Burchett’s Painting LLC 5927 Fairway Dr. Hope Mills Agent: Larry Keith Burchett TRIPLE TEA LLC 39 Turner Matthew Ct Spring Lake Agent: Thu Doan Anh Bvi Heaven Sent Enterprise LLC 5075 Morganton

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Rocky's NWG Carrier Express LLC 5075 Morganton Rd. Ste 10C #1357 Fayetteville Agent: Lorraine Conyers WLD THORNBERRY LLC 4129 Edward Maynor Dr Hope Mills Agent: William H. Thornberry III Sharma Abby Inc 3209 Cedar Creek Rd Fayetteville Agent: Rajesh Kumar Sharma Bear-Hawk Logistics LLC 8105 Dunholme Drive Fayetteville Agent: Anthony Derry Mike's Plumbing LLC 3262 King Charles Rd Fayetteville Agent: Michael Brooks Market Homes LLP 2664 Cypress Lakes Road Hope Mills Agent: Richard J Reynolds Ai insurance

agency inc.

225 Green St Suite 900 Fayetteville Agent: Agents Inc.

Cakes Etc... LLC 5772 Red Hill Church Rd Coats Agent: Shaneque T Lambert

HARNETT COUNTY

Alonso's Roofing LLC 1009 N Fayetteville Ave Dunn Agent: Giovanni Alonso Martinez

Afari Expediting LLC 761 Century Dr. Cameron Agent: Samuel Owusu Afari Universal Enterprises Global LLC 2684 NC 24 Cameron Agent: Eileen Bobbitt

HEADQUARTERS BEER HOUSE & GRILL LLC 511 North Raleigh Street Unit B Angier Agent: Betty N Nz au

Quick Terrazzo Solutions LLC 49 2nd Street Coats Agent: Gerardo Ventura

Put A Shirt On LLC. 33 North Johnson Street Suite B Angier Agent: Shawnwon Jones

East Coast Transport & Hauling LLC 16493 Nc 210 Angier Agent: Jeffrey Alan Jackson Jr

Aleborne Acres Ltd. Liability Co. 178 Collins Rd Lillington Agent: Nicholas Thompson

Smoke Cookie Kennel LLC 3198 McLean Chapel Church Road Bunnlevel Agent: Byron Kentrell Massey

String's Automotive Repair LLC 1013 Silas Moore Rd Benson Agent: Damien Michael Hess

HESED Bodywork LLC 81 Lindley Ct Cameron Agent: Leonardo Castellanos

ByoncesBeautyBarLLC 35 brafford estates dr cameron Agent: byonce ashanti nicole ray

Filter-Free Aesthetics LLC 82 Marchmont Pl Cameron Agent: Aubry Hanson

Bell's Transport Services LLC 131 Pat Way Lane Lillington Agent: Karen Nicole Bell

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal

June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

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By Savanah Ramsey

June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

Page 23

PROFILE

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Teamwork makes the dream work MORGAN FINDS SUCCESS IN NEW ROLE THROUGH COLLABORATION, PASSION

GFBJ: Throughout your military career, you served in a variety of positions, including some in Fort Bragg.

How is this role in particular meaningful to you?

MORGAN: It’s meaningful because

I feel like I’m on bonus round. I actually stayed in the military as an orthopedic surgeon and did a variety of leadership things in there as I love serving soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and their families.

My wife and I wanted to stay in the area and we had options to continue on with the military career, but I’m originally from Asheboro and my wife went to high school in Rocky Mountain, and we’re North Carolinians and not getting any younger, so we figured we’d stay.

GFBJ: What inspired you to join the

VA after your retirement from the U.S. Army as a Colonel?

MORGAN: I looked at some various opportunities. My background was one in which the army sent me for my fellowship, my additional training, to Duke to get an MBA in health sector management. I looked at business type of stuff, and some venture capital stuff on the medical side, and private practice opportunities, but you gotta do what you love and for me that is taking care of veterans.

There’s a closer integration that occurs with Fort Bragg hospitals and the VA. I was originally brought on to assist with some of that as well as being an orthopedic surgeon. I had no intention of really going into much leadership, but I do enjoy being a surgeon and one thing led to another.

GFBJ: What is it like to serve in healthcare in a leadership position with the evolution of the pandemic MORGAN: In the new role that I am in now, I’m a little less hands-on than I was before, because before as Chief of Staff, which is the lead doctor for the organization, I was advising the director a lot more on the strategy and things like that as to how I thought we needed to go.

With the response, I’m still involved in it. We’re effectively becoming an endemic, with the disease now versus a pandemic.

We went through a period of time where we were not doing a lot of

screening things that we would do for cancers and things like that and we need to make sure that we’re doing all those and getting back in the saddle with it. Our goal now is to respond to the pandemic as to what the needs are.

GFBJ: How has the transition been for you from chief of staff to being the interim executive director?

MORGAN: Overall, it’s going good.

The fortunate part is that I’m very familiar with the organization. So, it’s not like I was going to a completely different organization with that.

More importantly I couldn’t do this or feel as comfortable in this transition without the teammates that I have around me. This is very much of a team effort as we approach problems. I love hearing what they have to say and they provide some great input.

We’ve also had a lot of people stepping up in a variety of capacities and that’s sort of been the main thing is how phenomenal the teamwork has been.

GFBJ: What’s your favorite part of your job? What is the biggest challenge?

MORGAN: My favorite part of the job is the responsibility. The idea that I’m able to make the decisions and to take responsibility for that.

I would say the biggest challenge of the job is just the size of the responsibility in a sense that there are all these different variables that are associated with healthcare delivery. It’s not an easy thing to do and you have many different aspects of it and different challenges with each type.

We have 86,000 patients, 17 sites of care, and us in general are serving a large scale that expands over 19 counties. Overall, we’re trying to be as efficient as possible and make sure we are in the right direction of accomplishing that.

GFBJ: What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

MORGAN: I think the best piece of advice I received was from my mom and it was just, “Be nice.”

GFBJ: If you could give a piece of advice to someone just starting out in the medical field, what would it be?

Dr. Jeffrey Morgan Interim executive director of the Fayetteville, North Carolina VA Coastal Health Care System PHOTO COURTESY OF U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

Age: 56 Family: Dr. Morgan is married to Laura C. Morgan, who is the reigning Ms. Senior America. They live in Pinehurst, NC and have four adult children.

Professional Background: Dr. Morgan is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and the East Tennessee University James H. Quillen College of Medicine with a Master of Business Administration from Duke University Fuqua School of Business with a concentration in Health Sector Management. During his military career, Morgan served in a variety of roles such as the U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC) Surgeon Fort Bragg, N.C.; Deputy Commander for Clinical Services (Chief Medical Officer) for Womack Army Medical Center, Fort Bragg; USASOC THOR3 (Human Performance program) Program Director, and Chief, Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation at Darnall Army Medical Center, Fort Hood, Texas.

Hobbies: Morgan is into community service and has served on the board and then as president of Friend to Friend, an organization that helps provide support to victims of domestic abuse, sexual assault and human trafficking.

Morgan is also a council member in Pinehurst.

Favorite type of music or movie: Any action movie and classic rock.

MORGAN: I would say to make sure you’re being a team player, health care delivery is all about being a team.

You can be the smartest person in the world, have all the grades and everything else, but if you can’t function as a team member or teammate both in a follower capacity and sometimes as a leaser, you’re gonna have a tough time working in health care especially today.

GFBJ: What do you think the future

of the Fayetteville VA looks like going forward in the next few years?

MORGAN: I think you’re going to see it expanding out in what we do. Right now, we are in the unique position that we are the fastest growing level one facility in the nation, in the last 10 years we’re the third fastest growing VA. We’ve been growing over five percent for the last 10 years and that’s pretty impressive. You’re also going to see a change in income or retirement for the military. So I foresee that we’re going to end up having more people stay in longer and see a significantly ordered growth as well.

Page 24

Greater Fayetteville Business Journal

June 17, 2022 - June 30, 2022

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