Onslow Business is a monthly publication designed for businesses in and around the Greater Onslow County area. Each issue is free to read and is distributed at a number of locations throughout the county. It is also available to read online at onslowbusiness.com.
OAJ a Local Option for Business Travelers
The Albert J. Ellis Airport, located on NC 111 in Richlands (airport code OAJ), offers a more personable and convenient experience for local business travelers, says Airport Director Mitch Sprunger.
In addition, Sprunger notes, the economic impact generated by the airport’s operations is significant for the county, business owners, and the community. A study of the 10 commercial airports in North
another airport such as Wilmington or Raleigh should take into consideration factors such as travel to and from the airport, parking availability and cost, and check-in speed within the terminal, Sprunger emphasizes. He adds that “it's convenient and very competitive and cost-effective for your business operations.”
the North Carolina Department of Transportation, found that OAJ supported over 3,400 jobs, had an economic output of over $700 million and generated over $35 million in tax revenue.
Sprunger says the “biggest message to the community and to our business travelers, is we are a conduit for commerce, for the community.”
He adds that “ we ’re here to serve our citizens and guests, but we improve the quality of life for everyone out here through this tax revenue generation, providing the convenience with the air travel services that we offer, and then setting up infrastructure right now for longterm business development and sustainability.”
Business travelers considering whether to fly out of OAJ or
The airport will grow as more travelers take advantage of its services. Sprunger notes that “if we want to grow this community together, our business footprint, our economic impact, we need to support local business. You need to fly in and out of your local airport.”
With increased usage, the airport is able to access more grants and airlines take a greater interest in establishing routes in and out of the facility. Currently, American and Delta operate seven days a week out of OAJ. In addition, there are five rental car agencies, two gift shops, and a restaurant in the terminal.
The airport complex also houses Skyport Aviation, a full service fixed based operator, as well as Homefield Aviation, a locally owned business. There are also air medical operators for hospitals in Wilmington and in Greenville.
Future plans include building additional hangars for aircraft storage. There will be sites for “hangar spaces for potential businesses to build out here,” Sprunger notes. He says one of the biggest development projects is the extension of the runway, from 7,100 to 8,000 feet.
That project will necessitate some changes to NC 111 as well as to the intersection with Fowler Manning Road, which currently sits “right on the centerline of the runway,” Sprunger says. There are FTA regulations that will have to be met but the runway extension will be an additional enticement to airlines considering OAJ for their flights. Sprunger emphasizes to business travelers as well as those traveling for pleasure that it’ s important to make an investment in OAJ by checking locally first. He adds, “We need our business travelers to be our biggest advocates. We want to grow with local businesses.”
For more information, visit OAJ’s newly revamped site at: www.flyoaj.com
Mitch Sprunger, Airport
Director Albert J. Ellis Airport (OAJ)
Holidays!
Childcare Challenges Affect Employers and Employees
Childcare may seem like an isolated issue that solely affects parents of younger children. However, when an employee or potential employee cannot find childcare or cannot afford childcare, it impacts them and their family as well as their employer.
Stacey Knox, Chief Growth Officer with One Place in Jacksonville says she is “seeing more closures than openings in regard to childcare.” She adds that the cost of childcare for parents “has outpaced inflation.”
These two factors and the resulting childcare crisis in Onslow County can impact all aspects of business growth and economic development. The challenge is two-fold: parents may be spending up to 30% of their income on childcare, if they can find an open spot for their child, and childcare center owners are not making enough money to sustain their business.
As a resource and referral
organization, One Place provides help for families who are searching for quality and affordable childcare in the county. Knox says, “research tells us that that early period of life, birth to five, is the most critical period of development for a child.” Those are also the most expensive years for parents in terms of childcare costs.
Quality is a concern for parents as well. A childcare provider who cares for more than two unrelated children in their home should be regulated by the state, Knox says. She adds, “If someone is caring for more children than that in their home, then the state of North Carolina wants to see them regulated. And it becomes a safer environment because it's regulated with health and safety standards, licensing standards, sanitation standards, all of those standards as well.”
Onslow County has the lowest median age in the state of North Carolina, with a high
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percentage of young children under the age of five. Knox explains that there are “over 11,000 children who live in homes where one or both parents go to work or school.” She adds that “our community doesn’t have space for that many children in licensed or regulated childcare. So we would by definition be considered a child care desert.”
A recent survey conducted by the county found that childcare is among the top concerns of citizens. Some comments indicated that “if we can afford care, we can ’t find care.” Knox emphasizes that “families who can ’t access care can’t go to work.”
Employers face challenges when employees quit because of their childcare issues and when they cannot hire new employees because those individuals are not able to arrange for affordable, quality care for their children before starting work.
Stacey Knox Chief Growth Officer One Place
Knox says that the result is multi-faceted. The individuals have lost income, employers have problems with stabilizing their workforce and with turnover. “Then the greater piece of that economic impact is in revenue and taxes to the state.” She says it’s estimated that the state is losing $6 billion a year due to lack of childcare availability. The solution is also multifaceted. Childcare centers need more funding. Parents need more help with affording the cost. One option is for employers to provide scholarships as hiring incentives and withhold childcare tax credits on a pretax basis, Knox says.
A pilot program implemented by Smart Start, NC Tri-Share, involves three stakeholders in
the cost of childcare: “Employers, eligible employees, and the State equally split the price of child care for working families.” One Place is a part of the Smart Start network but the Tri-Share program is not yet available in Onslow County.
In an effort to find a solution for all involved, Knox says she “would love to get businesses together to talk about what they could do to support parents and to come up with creative solutions.”
Want to help find a solution to the childcare challenge?
Contact Stacey Knox at stacey.knox@oneplaceonslow. org.
One Place Offers Foundations for Resilience Training for Businesses
One Place’s Foundations for Resilience program provides nonprofit and for-profit organizations in Onslow County with customized personal and professional growth opportunities and skill building. The organization offers customizable programming to support professional and community development.
Core themes include: Personal Growth, Team Building, Trauma & Resilience, Personality Styles & Communication, and Challenging Relationships. For info, go to https:// www.oneplaceonslow.org/ blog/an-intro-to-foundationsfor-resilience/ or email Stacey Knox.
Doing Business with the Military, Part 1—Being Eligible
By Chris Rabassi, CFCM Office of Small Business Programs Marine Corps Installations East
This month, Marine Corps Small Business Programs will focus on being eligible for Department of Defense contracts.
Whether new to Department of Defense Contracting or experienced you must review the Small Business Administration website (sba.gov). The site is updated regularly and is a critical first step in doing business with the Department of Defense and the Federal Government. One outstanding resource is the Learning Platform selection. The Learning Platform takes you to the Learning Center. The Learning Center is a comprehensive series of courses providing fundamental information on how to Plan, Launch, Manage, Market, and Grow your business.
Being eligible means your business is (1) certified and current in the System for Award Management, (2) properly certified by the Small Business Administration, and (3) registered in Wide Area Workflow. Here are the details on being eligible:
(SAM) System for Award Management. If you do not have a current registration in SAM, you are not eligible for Department of Defense contacts! Ensure your company is registered in and maintains a current registration in the System for Award Management (sam.gov). SAM processing time normally takes approximately 15 days and there is no expedited process for “ emergency” renewals. Why? Once SAM has the registration it goes through
a vetting and approval process at the IRS and DLA. Even more reason for you to keep your SAM current!
PLEASE NOTE: Workload, policy changes and other factors directly affect processing times, so processing times may exceed 15 days.
Checking
Your Entity’s Status on SAM.gov – New Update (Federal and NonFederal guidance)
On the SAM.gov homepage, you can use the "Check Entity Status" tool to check the status of an entity registration or assignment of an entity’ s Unique Entity ID. We recently updated the tool to make viewing an entity’s status easier. If you have recently submitted an entity registration, use the Check Entity Status tool to see its status by entering your Unique Entity ID or CAGE code.
If you don’t have a registration, and only have a Unique Entity ID assigned, or are in the process of getting your Unique Entity ID assigned, you can enter your legal business name to see your entity’s status.
Unless you are a federal government user, you must have a role assigned by an entity to use the Check Entity Status tool. Each possible entity status is defined in this FSD.gov Step-by-step instructions on using the Check Entity Status tool, plus additional help on locating an entity’s Unique Entity ID, are available in this FSD.gov article:
https://www.fsd.gov/ gsafsd_sp? id=kb_article_view&sysparm_ article=KB0029911&sys_kb_id =ae62cdca1b37c154c5c4dd39bc 4bcb0d&spa=1
(SBA) Properly Certified by the Small Business Administration. WomanOwned Small Businesses (all categories) must certify with the Small Business Administration at www.sba.gov.
All certification requirements and specific details are also located at www.sba.gov and WOSB.Certify Knowledge Base · WOSB.Certify.sba.gov
You will not be eligible for DoD contracts if you are not properly registered in the Small Business Dynamic Search Engine (https://web.sba.gov/ pro-net/search/ dsp_dsbs.cfm). The same certification requirement exists for all WOSB categories as well, and this has been a requirement since 2021.
As of 1 January 2024 all SDVOSBs must either be certified by SBA in SBA’ s Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) database at https:// veterans.certify.sba.gov; or has both represented its status as an SDVOSB concern in the System for Award Management (SAM) and submitted an application for certification to SBA’s VetCert database on or before December 31, 2023. Pending applications are available at https:// veterans.certify.sba.gov
(WAWF) Wide Area Workflow. (Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment (eb.mil)), help desk 1-866-618-5988. You will submit all invoices through this site and you should be registered in this site as soon as possible. You do not need to wait until you receive a contract award.
(CMMC) The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC 2.0 https://dodcio.defense.gov/ CMMC/About/) will be implemented in December of 2024. This new policy is extensive and can be challenging to understand at times. The North Carolina Military Business Center (www.ncmbc.us) provides valuable training on a regular basis regarding cyber security policies and procedures.
Small Business Website: mcieast.marines.mil/StaffOffices/Small-Business-Office
Next month: Doing Business with the Military, Part 2 Being Competitive
Do you have news to share? Want print copies to distribute at your business? Ready to promote your business with affordable advertising options? Email us at: onslowbiz@words-working.net
Chamber Corner
By Diana King Barnes Executive Director Richlands Chamber of Commerce
The mission of the Richlands Area Chamber of Commerce is to develop, encourage, and protect the commercial, professional, financial, industrial, and general business interests of the Richlands Area and Onslow County.
We strive to promote civic engagement, enhance the community's general welfare, and foster agricultural and industrial progress throughout the region.
The Chamber is proud to celebrate the growth and development of Richlands and is dedicated to supporting local businesses and organizations. As a volunteer-driven
organization, we are eager to collaborate with you to help promote your business and contribute to our shared success.
Take a drive through Richlands and witness our community’ s exciting growth it’s just the beginning!
The Chamber is thrilled to announce our upcoming Illuminated Parade on December 14, 2024, starting at sunset. This festive event will feature a lighted parade, food trucks, and a visit from Santa, promising fun for all ages.
The Richlands Chamber of Commerce 2025 Business
Networking social January 9th at the Richlands community Building at 5:30pm. Bring your business cards and network while enjoying refreshments.
We typically meet on the last Wednesday of each month at 9:00 AM at 200 S. Wilmington Street, Richlands, NC.
Join us to share your ideas and connect with others who are passionate about growing our community.
For more information, please contact:
Terry Jarman: 910-389-6220
Richlands Chamber: 910-6015266 Executive Director Diana King-Barnes
Together, let’s continue to make Richlands a thriving and vibrant place to live, work, and grow!
"The road to success is always under construction." ~~Lily Tomlin
Veteran Business Collective Focused on Networking, Referrals
The mission of the Veteran Business Collective (VBC), says Jacksonville Chapter President Kalan McEuen, is to “have a home (tribe) for veteran entrepreneurs and business owners to come together and be able to support each others’ businesses.”
While the organization is designed to support veterans, non-veteran supporters are also encouraged to participate. The focus is on referrals within the group, to help each other build their business. McEuen says that unlike some other networking groups, “there are no restrictions on the type of businesses.” The group as a whole is “committed to serving other businesses within the VBC community.”
VBC was launched by veterans in Wilmington and has expanded to Jacksonville, Pensacola, and the tri-cities area of Tennessee, as members
have relocated and started new chapters.
Membership is free for active duty members, $100 for veterans, and $250 for nonveteran supporters.
Everyone is welcome to attend the group’s monthly breakfast meeting and chapter meeting twice before being asked to join the group.
Breakfast networking meetings are held on the first Friday of the month and the chapter meetings are held in the evening on the third Thursday of the month.
VBC also encourages corporate sponsorships for their two main events, which include Military Family Appreciation Night in the spring and the Zombie Fun Run every October.
As McEuen emphasizes, the VBC is “here to support veterans.”
For more info, go to: www.veteransbusinesscollective .org/
Training Opportunities
Coastal Carolina Community College Small Business Center
SBC details and registration: www.coastalcarolina.edu/ services-and-support/servicescommunity/sbc/
Stream Start: Blueprint for Live Streaming Business Success - Webinar
Wed, December 11
6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Boots to Business
Thu, December 12
9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
2 sessions ending Fri, Dec 13
Coastal Carolina Community College Small Business Center James S. Melton Vocational Skills Center
SCORE
https://www.score.org/ business-education
Online sessions:
Creating a Business Plan That Works - Key Elements
Every Entrepreneur Needs
Tues, December 10 1pm
How To Create A Marketing Plan For Your Small Business
Wed, December 11 1pm
Loans, Grants and Other Funding Options for Small Businesses
Tues, December 17 1pm
Federal Taxes and Your New Business
Tues, January 7, 2025 12:00 noon
SBA
https://www.sba.gov/events
Online sessions:
Federal Certifications for Small Businesses
Tues, December 10 9:00 -11:00 a.m.
Networking Opportunities
When you’re looking to connect with other businesspeople in the Greater Onslow County, you have a lot of options.
WomenConnect Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce
Lunch meetings
Second Thursday of each month at Nineteen restaurant, 12noon
No charge for the meeting; order lunch off the menu
Breakfast meetings
Fourth Thursday of each month at Southern Roots restaurant, 7:30am
Note: Next meeting will be January 23
No charge for the meeting; order breakfast off the menu
Veteran Business Collective
Chapter meeting on the third Thursday of the month, 5-7pm
December meeting will be December 19 at Blackbeards
Triple Play Restaurant, 302 Western Blvd, Jacksonville
Guests are welcome
Breakfast networking
First Friday of the month, 8am
December meeting will be December 6 at Blend Café Guests are welcome
Professional Book Club
Discussing a new business / sales book each month
December meeting is 10am, December 11, at Chicano Street Kitchen, 720 Court St, Jacksonville
GrowthWheel: Tools For Small Business OwnersDecember
Thurs, December 12 10:00 -10:45 a.m.
Suitability and Marketing to the Federal Government
Tues, December 17 9:00 -11:00 a.m.
One Place
Creating Hope for Families
“High-quality training opportunities for the community to include courses on positive interactions with children, health and safety, trauma and resiliency, managing challenging behaviors, and CPR/first aid.”
Information and registration: www.oneplaceonslow.org/forparents-and-early-educators/ training-info-registration/
Staying Healthy, Keeping it Clean
Thurs, December 12 6:30-8:30pm Virtual
December Book: “The 12 Week Year” by Brian Moran and Michael Lennington
Young Professionals
Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce
Networking activities through their Facebook page and on Instagram. For the young and the young at heart.
Jacksonville Board of Realtors® Young Professionals Network (YPN)
Networking and educational activities. For info, contact Jamie Cooper at Jamie@jbornc.com
Adult and Pediatric CPR/ FA/AED
Sat, December 14
9:00-2:30pm
One Place
NCFELD
Mon, December 16 & Wed, December 18 6:00-8:30pm
Virtual *Must attend both sessions for credit*
ITS-SIDS
Tues, December 17 6:30-8:30pm One Place
NC HUB Office
https://www.doa.nc.gov/ divisions/historicallyunderutilized-businesses-hub HUB Vendor Orientation Training HUB Certified Now What! Online Wed, December 18 9:00am-11:30am
Looking for new networking opportunities? What do you want to see in a local networking group?
Please take a few minutes and complete the Onslow Business Networking Survey.
List your networking group’s activities here. Email onslowbiz@words-working.net with the details.
Dream Entertainment: A Vision of Going Bigger
For Ben Horak, a Marine veteran, an opportunity to DJ at his sister’s wedding 15 years ago has grown into a successful entertainment business.
Horak’s story is not that straightforward, though.
As a child, Horak says, he tended to get into trouble. Born in Arizona to a single mother who had moved from Minnesota, he and his mom moved back to Minnesota when he was 9 years old. There, his biggest influence was his grandfather, an Army veteran.
Just as Horak was starting his sophomore year in high school, the events of 9/11 convinced him that he needed to join the military as well. He joined the Marines when he turned 18.
After his discharge from the military, he took “a number of salesman jobs through the years.” The turning point, he says, was when his wife, also a Marine veteran, “told me I needed a hobby.”
He had DJed previously and decided to start taking on gigs again. He worked at “clubs here and there.” Then his sister asked him to DJ at her wedding. As Horak explains it, “I was just DJing little clubs. Then my sister says I want you to DJ my wedding. I wore a suit and got some nicer gear.” It was at that point that he
realized he could do more with his DJ business. He says he “started investing in nicer equipment.” The business started growing primarily on referrals.
As the DJ side of his business grew, he says, “I've always had a vision of going bigger than that and doing outdoor concerts and live sound and things like that.” From there the dream expanded and became Dream Entertainment.
Horak explains that today his business is “not a DJ but an entertainment company.” He has contracted with other DJs as well as event service providers such as planners, bartenders, officiants, photo and video, and bands.
He also emphasizes that Dream Entertainment is “at the higher end of the spectrum.” The service providers are in suit and tie and the company focused on “pretty setups,” particularly for weddings and other special events.
Dream Entertainment also provides turnkey services for corporate events, concerts, birthday parties, and many other types of gatherings. Horak says the business has grown based on customer needs. Some have asked if he has tents, tables, and chairs. So, he added those. Then they asked if he has photo and video
providers, officiants, and planners. Now he does.
From a one-person DJ service to what he now calls a “multiop” entertainment company that “that can serve just about everything but food and venue,” Horak says “it’s just been growing.”
Horak admits he is astounded by the growth. He says, “I never in my life thought it would be this. I thought I'd just DJ for some side money.”
Often Horak provides consultation, “getting from the client what they don't know they need.” He sees it as “ more not really selling a service, because I think that part's easy.” When a client asks about a sound system, for example, Horak will ask if they have a stage or a tent or tables and chairs. Then the client will begin to realize what they will actually need for a successful event.
Today his wife and one daughter are also involved in the company and Horak and Dream Entertainment are active in the community. They “were the main sponsor for the Onslow 4th of July festival this year. We did our stage and sound system out there and provided all that for the bands that came in. That was a lot of fun.”
Horak serves on the Onslow Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, as a representative for the White Oak district. He is also president of the White Oak High School Booster Club. Dream Entertainment “added music and lights to the Friday night games.” He works with the Alzheimer’s Association and for the Diabetes Association, “doing events for them.”
“We do as much as we can to bring more to this area,” Horak says. He adds, “we want to bring more fun things to keep people here.”
For more information about Dream Entertainment, call or text 910-459-9568 or email dreamentertainmentnc.com.
“The important thing is not being afraid to take a chance. Remember, the greatest failure is to not try. Once you find something you love to do, be the best at doing it.”
~~Debbi Fields, founder of Mrs. Fields Bakeries
Ben Horak
Photos provided by Dream Entertainment
Photos provided by Dream Entertainment
New Bridge Streetscape Project Progressing
In mid-March, work began on a streetscape project that has involved “a lot of moving pieces,” as described by Project Manager Christy Baysden. The project, primarily focused on New Bridge Street in downtown Jacksonville, should wrap up by the end of the year.
Improvements include removing and relocating overhead utilities, installing larger storm drains to help reduce flooding, adding ADAcompliant sidewalks, and adding delivery islands in the middle of the street for trucks to stop and unload without impeding traffic.
Director of Transportation
Anthony Prinz says the project has been “many years in the making.
more than just repaving the road and putting in new sidewalks. It's essentially a rebuild of all of the infrastructure in that area.” Prinz explains that “the infrastructure under the ground is original to New Bridge Street.”
Stormwater upgrades and repairs were first on the list to be done. Next was the water main installation and “then we moved into some of the other improvements,” Baysden says. During the prep work for the water main installation, the workers “discovered three underground fuel tanks in the middle of New Bridge in one of the driving lanes.”
Baysden adds that “any time that you update areas that are as old as that neighborhood street is, you find challenges.” Another challenge was the discovery of a “communication duct bank that runs the entire four-block span and it’ s encased in terra cotta clay.” The crew crossed that bank several times.
Baysden explains that “ we were 16 feet underneath it. And when we do that, we have to bring in an 80-foot light pole to lay across the road to brace that duct bank to hold it up so that it doesn't collapse while we're digging under it and installing that storm drain.”
She adds that it’ s “a very timeconsuming process to be able to get through that and not interrupt communications and keep the infrastructure safe.”
The entire project is estimated to cost just under $3 million, including the studies involved, the engineering work, and the actual construction. Prinz says that the “feedback is that it's worth the money we're putting
into it.” He adds that “the intent was to make it a much more comfortable environment for people.”
Prinz says, “the concept had been there for quite some time.” The challenge was to finalize what needed to be done, appropriate the funds, award the contract, and get to the construction stage.
Some of the specific improvements to the New Bridge area, Baysden says, are landscaped medians, new security lighting, and sidewalks that “go right up to the entrances of each of the businesses.” She adds that these improvements in addition to the infrastructure improvements, “provide an overwhelming welcoming atmosphere for the city.”
Baysden says that, even though the project has caused some inconvenience at times, “the citizens and business owners have been very understanding, overall. I give them a lot of credit.”
The final phase of the project will be paving. That will be done in sections, one side of the
road at a time, so the entire street does not have to be closed.
Prinz hopes to see the downtown revitalization continue, explaining that “ we recently presented a whole series of recommendations to City Council on how to become a little bit more aggressive on revitalizing downtown.” While some of the recommendations were associated with hardscape improvements, others were focused on supporting entrepreneurship.
Prinz is confident that “people within the community, especially those who have been here a long time, understand the value of having a vibrant downtown, and want to see that continue.”
Photos provided by the City of Jacksonville
JOEDP Awards Grants to Local Businesses
The Jacksonville-Onslow Economic Development Partnership (JOEDP) awarded grants of $2,500 each to nine local small businesses on a refreshing November morning.
The ceremony, held on the porch of JOED’s offices at the train depot, featured Lauren Wargo, Duke Energy District Manager of Government & Community Relations, as well as Jeffrey Clark, JOEDP Chair, and Scott Riggs, JOED’ s Community Business Loan Fund Chair.
Small businesses were invited to apply for the grants, which were funded by the Duke Energy Foundation, in the fall. Each business was asked to described their intent for the grant funds. Those responses included buying equipment, upgrading facilities, and expanding their business.
In presenting the awards, Wargo noted that “the Duke Energy Foundation is really excited to present this grant to JOED today.”
She added that “the work and partnership that Duke Energy and JOED have had in this community is something that’ s very valuable to our organization.”
Award recipients were:
Tidal Therapy Solutions, Holly Ridge
O&R Alterations, Jacksonville
Downeast Marketplace, Jacksonville
Jireh Peruvian Coffee, Jacksonville
Fusion Blue Bistro, Holly Ridge
Sportsman’s Lodge, Jacksonville
Local Photographer Wins Award
Submitted by the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce On behalf of Above Topsail
HOLLY RIDGE Jeff Wenzel, owner and photographer at Above Topsail, has been awarded first place in the Children/Babies Portrait category at the annual Professional Photographers of North Carolina (PPNC) photo competition. Competing against more than 250 entries across various categories, Jeff's winning image is a striking black-and-white portrait of his son, Deacon.
The photograph was originally a test shot in Jeff's studio in Holly Ridge.
"I asked my son to stand in my portrait studio and let me take some test shots to ensure my lighting was locked in before the high school senior arrived," Jeff recalled. "I took one picture, looked at the back of my camera, and dismissed my son. It wasn't until I was reviewing the images from the senior's session that I noticed just how good that throwaway test image was. I cropped it, made it black and white, and texted it to my wife."
Sambula Imports, Jacksonville
Lil Bean Café, Jacksonville
Sanders Auto Parts & Service, Richlands
Clark wrapped up the program
or 12 years of being on the boards of JOED and JOEDP. What we've done here today and what you all will do with the money is going to help our community on the local level. And that is what we're all about here, is what we do on the local
The response was immediate and heartfelt.
"My heart just melted!" Lindsey replied, confirming to Jeff that he had captured something extraordinary.
Jeff's goal as a photographer and artist is to evoke emotion with every image.
"When people see my work, I want them to feel something," he said.
This image, which began as a simple lighting test, has grown into an award-winning portrait that connects deeply with viewers.
Jeff received the award at PPNC's annual award presentation in July. His studio, Above Topsail, located at 301 US HWY 17S, Suite 2, Holly Ridge, NC 28445, offers a range of photography services including high school senior portraits, family sessions, sports portraits, and business headshots, as well as Topsail landscape artwork and custom picture framing.
Pictured at top: Jeffrey Clark and award recipients At left: Lauren Wargo and award recipients
Sturgeon City: Never Let This Happen Again
To many, Sturgeon City is an event center. It is host to business gatherings, award ceremonies, and annual meetings, as well as to weddings and birthday parties. The facility is primarily an education center, though, and is officially known as the Sturgeon City Environmental Education Center.
Once the site of a wastewater treatment plant that spilled sewage into Wilson Bay and then into New River, the facility is now home to field trips, camps, and classes that educate children and teens on the importance of taking care of their environment.
Lisa Murabito, Sturgeon City Executive Director, explains that the water in Wilson Bay was essentially “dead” at one point. There were no living organisms, and none could possibly survive the pollution in the water. In 1998, after 20 years of Wilson Bay being “closed,” she says, “the city of Jacksonville said, ‘let’s fix it.’”
The Wilson Bay Initiative involved cleaning up the polluted waters, laying in oyster beds that would filter the water, and re-establishing the wetlands that would help the bay flourish once more. Sturgeon City was named to honor the return of the native sturgeon to the water. As Murabito explains, “you know if you have sturgeons in your river, you have a clean river.”
The Sturgeon City Environmental Education Center was created a year after the successful Wilson Bay Initiative work, in an effort to
“never let this happen again,” Murabito explains. The city now has a new wastewater treatment plant that does not discharge waste into the bay or the river and the education center is a significant part of downtown Jacksonville’ s revitalization.
The center focuses on STEAM education programs – science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. They are “consistently busy,” Murabito says, between school groups, mission-based events, and business events.
The mission-based events are focused on the mission of the center and include activities such as the Lego Tournament, a Summer Bash, the End of Summer Open House, Fall Family Bingo, Spooktacular, and the Jolly Jamboree. The center also hosts the Camp Sturgeon Summer Camp and a Spring Break Camp.
Elementary and middle school field trips are very popular, Murabito says, and they are exciting for the staff as well. The kids “have such a good time here. It’s the oohs and ohs.” She adds that “you just get this big gasp of ‘I’ve not been here before’ or ‘I’ve been here’ and then them telling the others all about it.”
The educational center is also home to the Girls in STEM Leadership Fellows program, for girls in grades 8-11. Murabito says this program is particularly important as there has been a decline in the number of young girls interested in pursuing STEM education.
Professional development for teachers and educational leaders, including homeschool co-op leaders and scout leaders, is also offered at Sturgeon City. A program called Project WET has as its goal “to facilitate and promote awareness, appreciation, knowledge, and stewardship of North Carolina’s water resources. ”
For businesses, there is one large room available for rentals that can also be divided into three smaller rooms. Each of those smaller rooms can accommodate 100 people. The center has an ABC license and a mobile bar available for special events as well.
Murabito says they are planning a large celebration for the Sturgeon City Environmental Education Center’s 25th anniversary in September 2025.
For more information about Sturgeon City, event rentals, and mission-based programs, visit https://sturgeoncity.org/ or email Murabito at director@sturgeoncity.org.
Overhead view of Sturgeon City (Photos provided by Murabito)
Pictured below Lisa Murabito Executive Director
Be Prepared When Applying for a Small Business Loan
The first step in applying for a loan is always the “planning part,” says Isabella Brower, Business and Commercial Lending Manager for Marine Federal Credit Union. Small business owners should “get their idea down for what they want to do and how they're going to execute it.”
Developing a solid business plan is critical, not just for the loan process but also for the ongoing operations and success of the business itself. Their plan, Brower says, should include working on “the market research, thinking about the expense that it's going to be to start their business, and forecasting what their income might look like.”
Brower recommends that individuals who are considering starting a business go to the Small Business Center (SBC) at Carolina Coastal Community College. The SBC offers free counseling services provided by advisors who are experienced with launching and operating a small business.
Brower says that the SBC counselors “can really advise them on what they need to be planning for and doing and the best steps to take because they've been through it.”
Kelly Shanahan, Vice President of Business and Commercial
Lending at Marine Federal, adds, “determining how you want to be structured is another very important part of that.” She explains that “there are numerous ways you can be structured, sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation.”
The business structure can affect taxes, liability, and other concerns so, Shanahan says, that determination “would have to be from your CPA or your attorney or someone you're working with at the college, to advise you what would be the best way to structure your business.”
The plan “maps out the potential to succeed,” Brower explains. Once that step is complete and the individual applies for a business loan, the primary consideration for the lender is the repayment ability, she adds. They will look at the current income and the individual’s personal credit history.
Shanahan explains that a loan for a potential small business owner is essentially lending money to a business that doesn’t exist, “so we have nothing to go on other than the projections that they may provide.” She also emphasizes that the individual’s financials need to be current. That includes tax returns and personal financial history.
Brower and Shanahan agree that character is also still a factor in their decision to approve a small business loan. Shanahan says, “that's going to be reflected in their personal credit. We do require personal guarantee on every business loan that we do, unless it's a nonprofit.”
If the business already exists, the business owner will need to show some business financial history, such as current tax returns, year-to-date statements. Then, Brower adds, they will also be required to fill out a business debt schedule, “so we can get a good idea of that as well.”
Brower says she loves to talk to business owners and is active with programs such as Boots to
Business, that help small business owners learn more about how to succeed. She adds that the most interesting part of her job is “learning about all these businesses and then getting to watch them grow and succeed ” For more info about small business loans:
Email businesslending @marinefederal.org
Call 910-577-7333 x5469
Go to Marine Federal’s small business lending page at www.marinefederalhb.org/ home/loans/business
Isabella Brower, Simone Langwell (Business & Commercial Loan Specialist), Kelly Shanahan
Lady Swan Captains Have “Best Job in the World”
Jane Simpson, co-owner of the Lady Swan and Carolina Swan tour boats, says “everybody always says you’ve got the best job in the world, and I guess we do.”
Jane and her husband, Tim, bought the boat that would become the Lady Swan in 2013 and have been offering tours of the inland waters around Swansboro ever since. Tim had previously owned a towboat business, which he sold in 2012, and the transition from towing to touring was relatively seamless.
The Simpsons have lived in the Swansboro area for 37 years. While Tim operated his towboat business, Jane was a high school guidance counselor and worked at Dixon High for 17 years.
Both are licensed captains. Tim has had his license – or more accurately now, his Merchant Marine Credential – since 1990 and Jane has had hers since 1995.
The Lady Swan is a favorite among visitors and residents alike. Many people come back year after year and, in fact, Jane says she’s already been contacted by people who want to book tours for next year.
The tours range from planned sunset cruises to private tours, including those celebrating weddings, class reunions, birthdays, and other events.
General public trips run at 1:30pm and sunset cruises are Friday, Saturday, and Sunday this time of year, although they run seven days a week during the season, Tim explains. Giving back to their community is also important to the Simpsons. Jane says, “we do some fundraising trips with some of the organizations such as the Coastal Federation. We're partnered with them to do some trips to help raise some money for them.” She adds, “this past year, we've done some stuff to help raise money for local schools in the Swansboro area.”
Safety and comfort are primary concerns aboard the Lady Swan as well as the smaller Carolina Swan. In fact, Tim says, “safety is our number one concern. We don't cut corners. The Coast Guard doesn't allow you to cut corners.”
The Lady Swan can legally carry 42 passengers, but Tim says, “We very seldom go past 30 on the big boat, for comfort.” The smaller Carolina Swan, a Carolina skiff, can carry up to 20 passengers but Tim says they tend to cap that at 15 for the same reason.
The smaller boat, which they purchased in 2016, is “used to take people and drop them off at different islands,” Tim explains. He adds, “it’s really good for getting in real shallow
areas and dropping folks off at sandbars or islands. They stay a while and then we come back and pick them up.”
After Hurricane Florence struck the area, Tim was called on by the Carolina Coastal Federation to help with dock debris cleanup and the Carolina Swan was put into service for that job as well.
here about where things are or how to get around.”
Throughout the year, visitors from across the country and even across the globe join the Simpsons for tours and special events. A major part of the experience is learning about the area ’s history. Tim and Jane say that they also learn something from their passengers on a regular basis.
Jane says “our 1:30 cruises are narrated history cruises.” She explains that “Tim’s a big history guy. Through the years, he’s talked to people who grew up here and that’s how you learn some of the fun stories.” Some of that history includes the marina where the Lady Swan is docked, which has been in the same spot since 1945.
She adds that Tim has “spent most of his career on the water. He knows all these backwaters. He actually is the person that a lot of people ask for
The wildlife and natural areas around the Swansboro area are exciting for visitors to see, Jane says. Another type of trip that has become popular over the past few years is a wine tasting cruise, which they do “in partnership with a wine market,” she adds.
In December, they are “hoping to do some Christmas light tours, because a lot of folks along the waterway will decorate their yards and their houses,” Jane says.
Lady Swan is located at Casper's Marina, 301 S Water St. in Swansboro. To learn more or to schedule a cruise, go to www.ladyswantours.com/ Contact Jane and Tim by phone at 910-325-1200 or by email at ladyswantours@gmail.com.
"Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.”
Schweitzer
Right: Carolina Swan
(Photo provided by Lady Swan Boat Tours)
Left: Lady Swan
Tim and Jane Simpson
Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting Due January 1
From the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network Beneficial Ownership Information FAQs
https://www.fincen.gov/boi-faqs
Some important information about the new requirement for business owners to submit Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) is available on the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FINCEN) website.
Key points include: Beneficial ownership information refers to identifying information about the individuals who directly or indirectly own or control a company.
In 2021, Congress passed the Corporate Transparency Act on a bipartisan basis. This law creates a new beneficial ownership information reporting requirement as part of the U.S. government’s efforts to make it harder for bad actors to hide or benefit from their illgotten gains through shell companies or other opaque ownership structures.
A reporting company created or registered to do business before January 1, 2024, will have until January 1, 2025 to file its initial beneficial ownership information report.
A reporting company created or registered on or after January 1, 2024, and before January 1, 2025, will have 90 calendar days after receiving notice of the company’s creation or registration to file its initial BOI report. This 90-calendar day deadline runs from the time the company receives actual notice that its creation or registration is effective, or after a secretary of state or similar office first provides public notice of its creation or registration, whichever is earlier.
Reporting companies created or registered on or after January 1, 2025, will have 30 calendar days from actual or public notice that the company ’s creation or registration is effective to file their initial BOI reports with FinCEN.
There is no fee for submitting your beneficial ownership information report to FinCEN.
If you are required to report your company ’s beneficial ownership information to FinCEN, you will do so
electronically through a secure filing system available via FinCEN’s BOI E-Filing website (https://boiefiling.fincen.gov).
FinCEN expects that many, if not most, reporting companies will be able to submit their beneficial ownership information to FinCEN on their own using the guidance FinCEN has issued. Reporting companies that need help meeting their reporting obligations can consult with professional service providers, such as lawyers, accountants, or enrolled agents.
Companies required to report are called reporting companies. There are two types of reporting companies:
• Domestic reporting companies are corporations, limited liability companies, and any other entities created by the filing of a document with a secretary of state or any similar office in the United States.
• Foreign reporting companies are entities
Sneads Ferry Microcreamery Wins Award
Submitted by the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce On behalf of Scoops Microcreamery
TOPSAIL BEACH - The North American Ice Cream Association has announced the winners of its 2024 National Ice Cream Awards, and Scoops Microcreamery, a beloved local business, has achieved remarkable success. This recognition places Topsail Beach firmly on the map as a hub for exceptional frozen treats.
Each year, hundreds of ice cream professionals and aspiring dessert entrepreneurs from across the nation gather for the industry’s largest event in the U.S., hosted this year at The Savannah Convention Center, Savannah GA, from November 12-15. A highlight of the event is the association’s ice cream flavor and quality
competitions, which draw entries from the finest ice cream makers nationwide.
In this year’s competition, Scoops Microcreamery earned:
Red Ribbon for their Classic Organic Strawberry
The rigorous sensory judging process was overseen by Dr. Sam Alcaine of Cornell University, a highly respected dairy scientist. Judging panels included seasoned ice cream business owners, making this recognition a true honor from peers within the industry.
A Celebration of Craftsmanship
Being recognized on a national stage is a testament to the hard work and creativity of Scoops
Microcreamery's team. Their dedication to creating exceptional ice cream delights continues to inspire both the industry and their loyal customers.
About the North American Ice Cream Association
(including corporations and limited liability companies) formed under the law of a foreign country that have registered to do business in the United States by the filing of a document with a secretary of state or any similar office.
There are 23 types of entities that are exempt from the reporting requirements (see Question C.2). Carefully review the qualifying criteria before concluding that your company is exempt.
Exempt entities include publicly traded companies meeting specified requirements, many nonprofits, and certain large operating companies.
Learn more at https:// www.fincen.gov/boi-faqs.
Founded in 1933, the North American Ice Cream Association supports retail ice cream and frozen dessert businesses with training, resources, and networking opportunities. The organization’s annual convention is a marquee event for the industry, drawing attendees from the United States, Canada, and beyond. Member businesses employ thousands and serve millions of customers annually.
Scoops will soon open a second location, at 1314 Hwy 210 in Sneads Ferry.
Andrea Agostinetti and Kayla Iwaskiw, the motherdaughter team owners at Scoops Microcreamery.
Book Review and Discussion Group: The 12 Week Year
By Shannon Williams Mortgage Loan Officer | NMLS #2287349 Guild Mortgage
Hey Sales Professionals! Let’ s embark on a journey of knowledge and growth together. Our book club is a fantastic opportunity to enhance our craft, share insights, and elevate our careers.
Here are the details:
•When: Wednesday, December 11, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
•Where: Join us at Chicano Street Kitchen, located at 720 Court St, Jacksonville, NC 28540.
•December Book: “The 12 Week Year” by Brian Moran and Michael Lennington. RSVP: https:// www.facebook.com/ share/19atpEStti/
Remember, there’ s no pressure just a supportive environment for growth. Let’ s learn, share, and get 1% better every day! Feel free to share this invite and bring a friend along.
The 12 Week Year by Brian Moran and Michael Lennington is a transformative guide that challenges the traditional annual planning model and introduces a revolutionary approach to achieving goals. The core premise of the book is to redefine the year from 12 months to 12 weeks, creating a sense of urgency and focus that drives higher productivity and better results.
The book provides a detailed guide on how to implement the 12 Week Year system. It starts with establishing a vision and developing a 12-week plan. The authors stress the importance of process control, keeping score, and taking ownership of one's day. They also introduce the concept of 12-week commitments, where individuals set specific goals for each 12-week period and work diligently to achieve them.
One of the key takeaways from the book is the idea of "intentional imbalance." The authors argue that achieving greatness often requires
focusing intensely on a few key areas while temporarily neglecting others. This intentional imbalance allows individuals to make significant progress in their most important goals.
The book also addresses common challenges such as procrastination, lack of focus, and the tendency to fall back into old habits. It provides practical strategies to overcome these obstacles and maintain momentum throughout the 12week period.
"The 12 Week Year" is a highly practical and actionable book that offers a fresh perspective on goal setting and productivity. The authors' approach is grounded in realworld experience and backed by research, making it both credible and relatable. The book is well-structured, with clear explanations and step-bystep instructions that make it easy to implement the 12 Week Year system.
Readers will find the book's emphasis on accountability,
Chambers Serving Onslow County Businesses
Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce
13775 NC Highway 50 Ste 101 Surf City NC 28445
910-329-4446
info@topsailchamber.org www.topsailchamber.org
Tammy Proctor Executive Director
Jacksonville Onslow Chamber of Commerce
1099 Gum Branch Rd. Jacksonville, NC 28540
(910) 347-3141
https://jacksonvilleonline.org/
Laurette Leagon President
Richlands Chamber of Commerce
8112 Richlands Hwy., PMB 48 Richlands, NC 28574
910-601-5266 or 910-389-6220
richlandsncchamber@gmail.co
m
Diana Barnes King Director
commitment, and intentionality particularly valuable. The principles and disciplines outlined in the book are applicable to various aspects of life, from personal development to professional success.
Swansboro Chamber of Commerce
714 W Corbett Avenue Suite 14
Swansboro, NC 28584
910.326.1174
swansboroareachamberofcom merce@gmail.com
https:// swansborochamber.org/ Mike McHugh Executive Director
Overall, "The 12 Week Year" is an excellent resource for anyone looking to achieve more in less time. It provides a powerful framework for setting and achieving goals, and its practical advice can help individuals transform their approach to productivity and success. “There’s no heavier burden than a great potential.” ~~Linus Van Pelt
Why Every Business Needs a Business Plan
By Sherri May SBTDC Business Launch Specialist
December is National Write a Business Plan Month, and you may wonder why it is necessary for a small business to have a business plan, what exactly a business plan is, and how you can receive help in writing a business plan.
A business plan is more than just a formal document; it’ s a blueprint for your business’ s success.
Business plans typically include:
• Executive Summary
• Market Analysis
• Competitive Analysis
• Product/Service Description
• Sales Strategies
• Management Structure and Organization
• Financial Projections
Whether you're starting a new venture or scaling an existing one, a well-crafted business plan is essential for guiding decisions, attracting investors, and ensuring long-term growth.
1. Clarity and Direction
A business plan helps clarify your vision and set clear, actionable goals. By outlining your business objectives, strategies, and target market, you create a roadmap that keeps your business team
aligned and focused. It forces you to think critically about your mission, how you will differentiate from competitors, and how you’ll reach your target market.
2. Attracting Investors and Securing Funding
One of the primary reasons businesses create a business plan is to secure funding. Whether you're seeking a loan or hoping to attract investors, a solid business plan demonstrates your credibility and preparedness. It shows potential investors that you've done the necessary research and are committed to making your business a success. Financial projections and a clear strategy are key factors in obtaining capital.
3. Risk Management and Problem Solving
A business plan allows you to anticipate challenges and risks before they arise. By outlining potential obstacles and proposing solutions, you're better prepared to handle unforeseen issues. The process of planning helps you identify areas where you might need to adapt or innovate, reducing the likelihood of being blindsided.
4. Measuring Success
A business plan isn’t just a onetime exercise; it’s a tool for ongoing performance evaluation. Regularly revisiting
and updating your plan allows you to track progress, assess whether your strategies are working, and make necessary adjustments. This continuous reflection helps ensure that your business stays on track and continues to grow.
In short, a business plan is a critical tool for both new and established companies, providing clarity, attracting investment, managing risks, and measuring success.
So, you’re convinced your small business or your pre-venture business needs a plan but how do you write one? The Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC) at UNCW offers free business counseling for pre-venture businesses as well as for small businesses. You can request nocost business counseling by visiting our website https:// sbtdc.org/wilmington
Taking the Leap with the SBTDC
You can also apply to join our program Taking the Leap. This eight-hour cohort is facilitated by our local Business Launch Specialist, Sherri May. The program is specifically designed for high-potential, first time entrepreneurs and covers essential topics such as customer discovery, market research, writing a business plan, and business formation.
Entrepreneurs will also hear from local experts in marketing and lending and the class will culminate in a pitch event where participants present their business ideas.
The next Taking the Leap will be held in person at the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) at UNCW starting January 16. To apply for this no-cost training and to review the criteria, please visit our website by January 14th to be a part of this exciting opportunity to Take the Leap! https://sbtdc.org/ site/taking-the-leap Space is limited.
You can also request no-cost business counseling from the SBTDC team at any stage of your business. In addition to our pre-venture counseling and program, we offer counseling on general business, government contracting, and international business. The Wilmington SBTDC serves a six -county area which includes Onslow, Pender, Duplin, New Hanover, Columbus, and Brunswick Counties.
To find out more about the SBTDC, please visit us at https://sbtdc.org/wilmington or call our center at 910-9623744.
