Artisan Market Launches in NTB
A passion for the artisan community and a desire to provide North Topsail Beach with more retail opportunities came together in the launch of the NTB Artisan Market this spring.
The market, located on the former tennis court at Villa Capriani, is “the perfect opportunity to serve the community and tourists alike,” says founder Melanie Birkholz. She emphasizes that there is a “vibrant vendor community in the area, a lot of talented artisans.”
Birkholz is one of those artists, saying she has “always dabbled in art.” She’s done watercolor painting and sculpture work, mostly “as a side thing.” Her business, Melanie Birkholz Art, is now integral to the artisan market as she also gives others a place to showcase their work. Working with partners Kasey Sawyer and Kim Nelson, Birkholz launched the NTB Artisan Market in March. It is scheduled to run every Tuesday, from 9am to 1pm, through the last Tuesday in October.
There are between 30 and 34 vendors signed up for the market, which puts it at capacity for this year. After several months of planning, they launched the vendor application and received a number of responses. However, Birkholz emphasizes, “we're very curated, so we make sure we only have so
many candle people, so many potters, so many this, so many that. And the quality of the work has to be a certain level in order to be accepted.”
Birkholz worked with Villa Capriani on the use of the space, which had not been a functioning tennis court in several years. She explains, “we noticed it was an underutilized space.” She adds that she thought “it was a great opportunity for both the land owner of Villa Capriani and the artists and community to have something there.”
The Artisan Market could not have been possible without her partners, Birkholz says, adding that Sawyer provides technical skills and social media skills that “ are unparalleled.” She credits Nelson as being “a great planner.” She plans out the map for the vendor layout and “does a lot of logistics for the market.” Both also have vendor booths at the market.
Birkholz says that “ as a team, this would not be what it is without them.” She adds that “we're concentrating our efforts on making it the best market with the space that we have currently. And we like it there. It's perfect for what we need.”
Above: Kim Nelson, Kasey Sawyer, and Melanie Birkholz (Photo by Tammy Proctor)
Below: The North Topsail Beach Artisan Market at Villa Capriani, 790 New River Inlet Road, NTB
Effective Communications Month
June is Effective Communications Month. In this issue, you’ll find guidance on various types of communication in the workplace, a critical piece to business success.
The Harvard Professional & Executive Development program outlines eight tips for better communications in the workplace:
• Be clear and concise
• Prepare ahead of time
• Be mindful of nonverbal communication
• Watch your tone
• Practice active listening
• Build your emotional intelligence
• Develop a workplace communication strategy
• Create a positive organizational culture.
Baylor University's Hankamer School of Business adds to its list of tips: Know when to stop talking!
Listening with intent is as important as choosing the right words or body language. More than simply hearing, listening is paying attention and responding appropriately.
Take the time this month to work on those communication skills. You’ll find help on pages 4, 7, and 13!
onslowbusiness.com onslowbiz@words-working.net
Onslow Business is published monthly by WordsWorking LLC and distributed free throughout the Greater Onslow County area.
The goal of Onslow Business is to provide accurate, factual information. The publication cannot be held responsible for any consequences resulting from errors or omissions. Onslow Business is not responsible for the content of its advertisers.
Pat Fontana & Staff pat@words-working.net 919-306-4242
© WordsWorking LLC
Pop-Up Networking
Friday, June 26 8:30am
Hampton Inn & Suites 1032 Hampton Inn Way, Jacksonville
Pop-Up Networking is an informal event hosted by Onslow Business.
Make new connections and enjoy breakfast and beverages provided by Hampton Inn!
Free to attend but attendees must register: https://onslowbusiness.com/pop-upnetworking/
Previous issues of Onslow Business are available online at onslowbusiness.com/previous-issues/.
Have news to share about your business? Add Onslow Business to your media list.
Want to include your business location in our growing distribution list so you can share free copies with your customers and team members?
Let us know how many you want delivered (and where) each month.
Ready to promote your business to others throughout the county (and beyond)?
Email onslowbiz@words-working.net today!
Thanks for your support!
Common Financial Mistakes to Avoid for Small Businesses
By Tammy Haremski
Most business owners don’t start their business because they love bookkeeping or financial reporting. In the early stages, the focus is usually on customers and just keeping daily operations running. Unfortunately, organizing finances often gets pushed aside until a problem appears, usually at the worst possible time. Many small issues may not seem serious at first, but over time they can create stress, cash flow problems, and unnecessary setbacks. Building good financial habits early can help you stay organized, make better decisions, and grow your business with more confidence.
Mistake #1: Mixing Personal and Business Finances
One of the most common mistakes business owners make is not separating personal and business expenses. Open a separate bank account that is used only for business transactions. Your business account should not be paying for grocery runs, dog toys, or late-night online shopping orders. Mixing personal and business expenses may seem harmless at first, until tax season turns into a scavenger hunt. It can create bookkeeping confusion and become a red flag for the IRS.
Mistake #2: Not Monitoring Cash Flow
Your business can show a profit on paper while still struggling with cash flow. Monitoring incoming and outgoing money regularly allows you to see what may be holding your business back. Outstanding customer invoices, unexpected expenses, or failing to plan for quarterly or yearly bills are all common cash flow issues. Just because money came in this month does not mean it is available to spend next month. Cash flow is what keeps the lights on day to day.
organized also helps ensure expenses are not missed and receipts are not lost in a coffeestained box somewhere.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Financial Reports
Financial reports may not be exciting reading, but neither is discovering a problem too late. Reviewing monthly profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and budgets helps you see the bigger picture of how your business is performing over time. These reports can help guide important decisions about hiring additional help, expanding operations, or advertising on that billboard you have been wanting to see your company name on.
Mistake #4: Waiting Until Tax Season
Walking into your tax accountant’s office with a shoebox full of receipts does not help you during the year. Tracking transactions monthly and organizing receipts helps you make better financial decisions instead of scrambling during tax season. Shoebox accounting may feel organized in the moment, but it rarely impresses your tax accountant. Staying
Mistake
#5: Doing Everything Yourself
As a small business owner, it is easy to try to do everything yourself and wear too many hats. Most business owners become part-time marketers, customer service specialists, schedulers, and accountants overnight. However, there is a reason you started your business, and it probably was not to spend late nights organizing receipts at the kitchen table. Working with a bookkeeper can help reduce stress, keep you financially prepared, and allow you to focus on the parts of your business you truly enjoy. Let them do their job so you can do yours.
Building strong financial habits will pay off in the long run and give your business a stronger chance of succeeding. Clean and organized financial records allow you to make confident decisions, reduce unbillable time, and continue sustainable growth. You’ve got this, but don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Tammy Haremski is Owner, Harbor Bookkeeping LLC
Contact her at tammy@harboraccounts.com or 919-283-1350a
Reflecting on the Vital Role of Communication in the Workplace
By Vicki Fincham
As we celebrate June as Effective Communication Month, it's a great opportunity to reflect on the vital role communication plays in our workplace. Coming from a business dedicated to helping individuals communicate every day, we understand that effective communication takes many forms - especially within a professional environment. Strong communication fosters collaboration, enhances productivity, and builds positive relationships among employees and clients.
The Importance of Clear Communication in Today’s Workplace
In our ever-evolving work environment, effective communication is key to keeping teams connected and productive - especially as many of us adapt to a mix of in -office and remote work.
Here's why good communication matters:
• Clear Information Sharing: When team members share insights and updates in a straightforward way, it helps avoid misunderstandings and errors, leading to smoother project progress.
• Stronger Team Bonds: Open communication helps build trust and camaraderie among colleagues, creating a more collaborative workplace culture.
• Valuable Feedback Loops: Encouraging honest discussions allows everyone to share and receive feedback, which is vital for both personal and professional growth.
• Mind Your Tone: It’s important to be mindful of how your text messages or emails may be interpreted. The absence of tone can lead to misunderstandings,
so consider how your words might come across to ensure clarity.
To enhance communication across your team, consider these practical tips:
1. Hold Regular Check-Ins: Organize frequent team meetings to discuss projects, set goals, and address any challenges. This openness creates a space for brainstorming and collaboration.
2. Choose User-Friendly Communication Tools: Adopt various platforms that fit everyone’s preferences - whether that's email, instant messaging, a communication application like Slack or project management software - to ensure everyone stays in the loop.
3. Encourage Active Listening: Foster an environment where everyone feels heard and valued. Practicing active listening not only enhances understanding but also validates each individual's contributions.
By embracing these practices, we can create a more connected and effective workplace, whether in person or online.
Embracing Diverse Communication Styles
Effective communication is vital, but it's not a one-size-fits -all solution - particularly for those encountering communication roadblocks. We strive to educate our community about the significance of recognizing diverse communication styles and preferences, especially in a business setting. By understanding these differences, we can collectively support individuals in overcoming barriers that may
affect their daily interactions, including those that impact engagement with employees. Some examples include:
• Hearing Impairment: For clients who are hearing impaired, using written materials, captions during meetings, or sign language interpreters can enhance communication.
• Non-Verbal Communication: Some clients may prefer nonverbal communication, such as gestures or visual aids. It’s helpful to recognize and adapt to these preferences to establish effective engagement.
• Aphasia: Individuals with aphasia may struggle with speaking or writing. Therefore, patience is crucial. Using simple language, providing visual support, or allowing them extra time to communicate can make a significant difference.
Encouraging an inclusive communication culture not only serves to improve
relationships with clients but also strengthens brand loyalty. Effective communication is a multifaceted skill that enhances workplace dynamics and promotes inclusivity. By choosing to embrace various communication styles and fostering an environment of open dialogue, you can empower both employees and clients.
As we continue to observe Effective Communication Month, let’s commit to refining our communication practices for a more harmonious and productive workplace.
Remember, taking the time to understand and adapt to different communication needs not only meets legal requirements but also enriches the overall company culture. Together, we can create a workplace that truly values every voice.
Victoria Fincham is Chief Operating Officer, Tidal Therapy Solutions www.tidaltherapync.com
Networking Opportunities
Pop-Up Networking
Friday, June 26
8:30am Hampton Inn & Suites, Jacksonville
Registration is required onslowbusiness.com/pop-upnetworking/
Business Over Breakfast
Friday, July 17
8:30am-10am
The Tiny Chateau onslowbusiness.com/businessover-breakfast/
Brainstorming / Networking
Monthly networking session for sales professionals in all types of business, sharing ideas and encouragement
Thursday, June 25, 5:30pm-7:30pm Biagio’s Piazza (between Clove Hitch and Ransom Room) Jacksonville
A Network Empowering Women (ANEW)
Thursdays from 9:30 to 10:30 June location: Matter More Coffee, Hampstead
Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce
All events are free. To register visit the Chamber’s website: topsailchamber.org/events
Coastal Masterminds
June 16, 4pm Chamber office
Note: WomenConnect attendees order from menus at their own expense.
WomenConnect in Sneads
Ferry
July 7, Noon
Rick’s Restaurant
WomenConnect in Hampstead
June 11, Noon
Nineteen Restaurant
Mornings with WomenConnect
June 25, 8:30am Southern Roots Grill
Men’s Business Alliance
June 9, 8:30am Chamber office
Topsail Young Professionals
June 9, 5:30-7:30pm
Coconut Cove
Veteran Business Collective
Chapter Meeting
Thursday, June 18 6:00pm-9:00pm
Carolina Ale House, Jacksonville
Breakfast Meeting Friday, June 5, 8am Blend Café
veteransbusinesscollective.org/ chapters-events
Richlands Chamber of Commerce
Last Wednesday of each month at 9 a.m.
200 S. Wilmington Street www.richlandschamberofcom merce.com/
Swansboro Area Chamber of Commerce
Holds “networking events year-round, including our Business After Hours and General Membership Meetings held monthly.” swansborochamber.org
Waterway Women’s Connect Tuesday, June 23, 12 p.m. Preston’s Corner Bar & Grill, downtown Swansboro.
RSVP by Monday, June 22
Call (910)-326-1174
Professional Book Club
Who Moved My Cheese
Wednesday, June 10
10am-12noon Bistro 1940 618 New Bridge St., Jacksonville
She Means Business Roundtable
Meets “the last Monday of each month at a different location within the county.” Check their Facebook page for details on the next meeting.
Business Movements
Casa Mia Opens Sneads Ferry Location
Based in Jacksonville, pizzeria Casa Mia has opened a second location. The new restaurant is in the Four Corners Shopping Center at 1961 NC 172 in Sneads Ferry.
Owner Jason Terry told WNCT ahead of their grand opening celebration, “As a small family-owned business, we ’re incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received from the Sneads Ferry community. Our goal has always been simple: serve great food, treat people well, and create a place where families and friends enjoy gathering together.”
WNCT also reports that guests are encouraged to visit the restaurant with canned food donations between June 1-15. All donated items will be matched by Casa Mia Pizzeria.
The pizzeria’s Jacksonville location is at 2200 Gum Branch Rd.
The Sneads Ferry location is open at 10am every day except Tuesday, when it opens at 4pm.
https://casamiapizzeria.com/
Crumbl Cookies Opens Jacksonville Store
Crumbl Cookies has opened a store at 2075 N Marine Blvd in Jacksonville. The company, launched in 2017 in Utah, now has over 1,000 locations worldwide.
The cookie store features flavors such as Fruity Cereal Milk Tres Leches Cake , Blueberry Pancake Cookie , and Frosted Strawberry Cookie ft. Pop-Tarts® , among regular offerings that include the chocolate chip cookie that launched the business.
The Jacksonville store is open 8am to 10pm every day.
https://crumblcookies.com/ stores/nc/ncjacksonville
Guthrie’s Chicken Fingers Opens in Jacksonville
Known as a chicken finger only restaurant, Guthrie’s has opened a location at 3100 Western Blvd, Jacksonville.
The first Guthrie’s was opened in 1965 in Alabama. They now have 40 locations throughout the country. The concept of serving only chicken fingers was born in 1982, when they
realized they needed to simplify their menu.
Guthrie’s offers chicken fingers in combo meals, as sandwiches, or in buckets. They’re open 10:30am to 10pm every day of the week.
https://guthrieschicken.com/
Perspective Shift Automotive Launches
Crystall Massie has launched Perspective Shift Automotive. Perspective Shift Automotive is built for dealers that need more than advice. It is project-based operational support from someone who has lived the cyclical real world pressure from the frontline to the executive seat.
PSA creates value:
• Profit recovery
• Revenue enablement
• Technology traction
• Operational clarity
As well as execution lift:
• DMS
• CRM
• Marketing
• People readiness
• Vendor control
• Operating systems enablement
perspectiveshiftautomotive @gmail.com
Turning “No” Into “Not Yet”
The Communication of Customer Recovery
By Brian Vinciguerra
You see it before your morning coffee. A new review. Three stars. Maybe one. Your stomach tightens. You read it once, then again. Part of you wants to defend your business. Part of you wants to ignore it. Neither of those is the right move.
Here is the truth that changes everything: when you respond to a negative review, you are not writing to the person who left it. You are writing to every future customer who reads it. That shift in perspective is the foundation of effective customer recovery communication.
Most customers who have a bad experience don’t complain they simply leave and tell others. The ones who do leave a review are actually giving you something valuable: a public opportunity to demonstrate your character. How you handle that moment says more about your business than the complaint ever could. There are four communication moves that turn a frustrated customer into a future advocate:
Move 1 Acknowledge without defense. Start by thanking the customer for taking the time to share their experience even when the feedback stings. Gratitude before explanation is disarming. It signals that you are listening, not loading your rebuttal. Then validate what they experienced before offering any context.
Move 2 Respond swiftly and specifically. Aim to respond within 24 to 48 hours. Speed signals that you care. Use the customer’s name and reference specific details from their review a generic copypaste response damages credibility more than silence. Future readers notice the difference between a business that pays attention and one that runs a template.
Move 3 Invite the conversation forward. Move from public to private when possible. Offer a direct line email, phone, a name. Keep your response brief and resist the urge to over-explain publicly. The goal isn’t just to fix the problem. It’s to re-earn trust.
At my own business, a guest once left a three-star review after feeling our staff wasn’t attentive enough during their experience. Their frustration was legitimate. My response thanked them for the feedback, acknowledged the gap, owned it without excuses, and invited them to reach out directly. Did that particular guest return? I genuinely don’t know. But every potential customer who read that exchange saw a business owner who responded with accountability and professionalism. That is the real return on investment.
Not every situation is recoverable and recognizing that is a communication skill in
itself. When a second guest left a heated one-star review built on a misunderstanding that escalated quickly into disrespect toward a staff member, the dynamic shifted entirely. A fourth move became necessary:
Move 4 Know when recovery isn’t the goal. Some situations cannot be recovered, and forcing it makes things worse. The goal shifts from winning the customer back to closing with dignity. Future readers are still watching. How you hold your ground calmly, professionally, without cruelty matters as much as how you extend grace.
In that moment I responded with the facts, stood behind my team, and wished the reviewer well.
No defensiveness. No retaliation. Just clarity and professionalism on the record
for every future reader who would judge my business by how I handled it.
No business gets it right every time. The ones that build lasting reputations in closeknit communities like ours aren ’t perfect they’ re accountable. They respond with intention. They protect their people. And they understand that every public interaction is a window into their values. The goal was never a perfect record. The goal is a trustworthy one.
Brian Vinciguerra is the owner of Cracked It Escape Games in Jacksonville, NC, a Toastmasters member since 2002 and current Area Director, and a seminar instructor for the NC Small Business Center Network.
Exporting in North Carolina: The Basics
By Owen George and Ginny Vaca, SBTDC International Business Counselors
For members of the SBTDC’ s International Business team, a very common question we are asked is: “What kinds of products does North Carolina export?”
The short answer: just about everything. And those exports add up in a significant way.
In 2025, North Carolina exported more than $40 billion in goods to markets around the world, reflecting strong growth over the past decade. When services are included, total international trade is estimated to exceed $70 billion, supporting jobs and economic activity across the state.
Canada remains North Carolina’s largest trading partner, followed by China and Mexico.
Key export categories include pharmaceuticals, industrial machinery, and aerospace products; industries that highlight the state’s advanced manufacturing capabilities and global competitiveness.
Pharmaceuticals, in particular, have grown in prominence as both exports and imports, underscoring North Carolina’ s strength in life sciences and its integration into global supply chains.
No conversation about North Carolina exports is complete without sweet potatoes. As the world’s leading exporter, the state has helped make North Carolina-grown sweet potato fries a familiar favorite in pubs around the globe.
This global reach is supported by North Carolina’s robust transportation and logistics infrastructure, including international airports, ports, and freight networks that enable businesses of all sizes to access international markets efficiently.
• How the NC SBTDC Supports International Trade
The NC SBTDC plays a critical role in helping small and midsized businesses succeed globally through:
• Strategic export planning Counselors work with companies to evaluate global opportunities, develop export strategies, and identify target markets aligned with their products and competitive strengths.
• Compliance and documentation guidance We provide step-by-step support on export regulations, customs documentation, Incoterms, and licensing requirements; helping businesses navigate
complex international trade rules with confidence.
• Trade finance and payment support SBTDC connects companies with financing solutions such as SBA-backed export loans, working capital programs, and trade finance tools that improve cash flow and reduce risk.
Referral and partnership networks Our team links clients with federal and state partners, export training programs, trade missions, and industry-specific resources that expand their global reach.
Through tailored advising, practical tools, and strategic
partnerships, the NC SBTDC International Business team can help small and mid-sized businesses enter and thrive in the global marketplace.
The SBTDC is a business advisory service providing confidential, no-cost services for growing and developing small to mid-sized businesses. The Wilmington SBTDC is administered by UNCW on behalf of the UNC System and is operated in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Contact the Wilmington SBTDC office at 910-962-3744 or uncw@sbtdc.org
OMH Named One of Newsweek’s America’s Greatest Midsize Workplaces in Health Care 2026
By Victoria Morales
Onslow Memorial Hospital has been recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Greatest Midsize Workplaces in Health Care 2026, a distinction that honors employers demonstrating excellence in workplace culture, employee satisfaction, and ethical business practices.
The ranking was developed by Newsweek in partnership with Plant-A Insights and Aniline, a leading HR analytics company. The evaluation analyzed more than 1.3 million online
employee reviews from U.S.based organizations and assessed companies across six key pillars, including work-life balance, compensation and benefits, career development, and workplace culture.
“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition,” said Dr. Penney Burlingame Deal, President and CEO of Onslow Memorial Hospital. “At the heart of our Carolina Care Values is ‘One Great Team,’ and we truly live by this principle. We are committed to
creating an environment where our teammates feel valued, supported and empowered to grow, collaborate and make a meaningful impact.”
"In a landscape where health care professionals are increasingly prone to burnout, the organizations that prioritize their people are the ones that will ultimately redefine patient care.
Newsweek’s ranking of America’s Greatest Midsize Workplaces in Health Care
2026 highlights the employers who understand that a thriving workforce is the heartbeat of a successful institution. By rigorously analyzing data through the lens of those on the front lines, we aim to provide a roadmap for employees seeking fulfillment and a gold standard for employers striving to build cultures of belonging, excellence, and long-term growth,” said Jennifer Cunningham, Newsweek Editor-in-Chief.
SACC Forming Business Women’s Group
By Mike McHugh
Two points can work independently but when a connection is established the benefits of synergy begin to manifest.
That is the premise forming the foundation of the Swansboro Area Chamber of Commerce’ s ‘Waterway Women’s Connect.’
The creation of the WWC is the brainchild of SACC Deputy Director Susan Cummings. Inspired by a similar group in neighboring North Topsail Beach, Cummings reached out to Tammy Proctor, director of the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism who invited Cummings to attend their women ’s group meeting.
“I was very impressed,” Cummings said. “The meeting was open to members and non members. A woman who owns a cleaning service spoke during the meeting.”
Cummings came back to Swansboro and began designing a logo and planning for the first gathering. On May 13, the concept was presented to the SACC Board of Directors who unanimously approved the WWC and thanked Cummings for her initiative.
The first meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 23, beginning at 12 p.m. at Preston’s Corner Bar & Grill in downtown Swansboro. Those wishing to attend must RSVP the chamber no later than Monday, June 22, by calling (910)-326-1174. The WWC will meet monthly on the fourth Tuesday.
restaurant arena and owning and operating a Swansborobased clam house.
Cummings has been the deputy director of the SACC for more than nine years.
“This group is not exclusive to female chamber members but is open to any woman conducting business in our community,” Cummings said.
The wide net thrown over the entire community serves two purposes, according to
Cummings. The Waterway Women’s Connect adds another benefit to chamber membership and may show to woman who aren’t familiar or understand the purpose of chambers of commerce a reason to join and become involved,” Cummings said. “Let’s be honest, it’s not easy running your own business or employed in a position of leadership. We can all learn from each other.”
Cummings has been both an employee and an employer working in the financial and
Cummings, a Long Island, N.Y. native has lived in the Swansboro area for nearly four decades where she and her husband raised two daughters and sit atop a brood of seven grandchildren.
Small Business Guidance Being Competitive
Chris Rabassi, CFCM Office of Small Business Programs Marine Corps Installations East
Last month we covered how to become eligible for contracts. Here are the details on being competitive:
Government Contract Assistance ProgramsGCAP (North Carolina only) and APEX Accelerators: Government Contract Assistance Programs in North Carolina only are part of the Small Business Training and Development Center (SBTDC). APEX Accelerators (part of DoD Office of Small Business Programs). Both GCAP/APEX Accelerators can assist you with understanding Government procurement regulations, contract terms, conditions, and formats. They can also help you in obtaining a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) which replaced the DUNS number, assist with your SAM registration, WAWF (invoicing) registration determining business size and obtaining socio-economic designations. GCAP/APEX Accelerators will also review proposals IF you give them enough lead time! To find the North Carolina GCAP counselor closest to you, go to www.sbtdc.org. To find the APEX Accelerator closest to you either go to apexaccelerators.us, or search “Apex Accelerator in (your State).
Ensure your company capabilities are clearly accurately reflected in the Dynamic Small Business Search Engine: (web.sba.gov/pro-net/search/ dsp_dsbs.cfm). Do not leave this section blank!
Research Federal Procurement Data Systems-Next Generation (FPDS-NG) Federal Procurement Data SystemNext Generation (fpds.gov). FPDS-NG provides information on contract awards (over $25,000) across all Federal agencies. Therefore, you can see what agencies are buying, and the contract award amount.
Ensure you aggressively monitor all Government Points of Entry (GPE)
-sam.gov (Contract Opportunities)
-GSA: (hallways.cap.gsa.gov/ app/#/ (Acquisition Gateway). GSA has its own process for vendors to be on GSA Schedule, so review www.gsa.gov for the process and requirements.
Ensure you aggressively monitor each of the above for Requests for Information (Government has a general idea of what it needs and is seeking commercial vendors that can possibly support), Sources Sought (Government knows what it needs, and contracting is trying to determine if large/small businesses can support), Synopsis and Proposals. Requests for Information, Sources Sought and Synopsis are all forecasting indicators. Synopses are the best forecasting indicator of the three because the Government says when a solicitation is anticipated to be posted.
Please note, responses to sources sought and requests for information are not official proposals, you will still have to provide an official proposal once a solicitation is posted.
LPTA vs. Best Value. The Federal Government has put more emphasis, through regulations and procedures, on making best-value awards vice Lowest Price-Technically Acceptable (LPTA). Therefore, your proposals need to include language that demonstrates why your company represents the best value to the Government.
For your Solicitations/ Proposals:
-Propose and propose on time!
-Read the whole solicitation (including all amendments), complete all required provisions, and understand all clauses.
-Answer the tasks being asked and, when possible, elaborate on what benefits you bring to each task. What to you bring that is over and beyond what the Government is asking for?
You must be careful here because this does not mean adding things the Government did not ask for. Rather, it means explaining how your product provides the greatest benefit to the Government.
-Write to the evaluator. This means you need to fully understand the evaluation criteria.
-Consider your volume of responses. Quality of responses overrides quantity of responses!!
Key provisions/clauses to focus on:
-Instructions to Quoters (Specific guidance on proposal formats and how the Government is soliciting. If you fail to comply your proposal can be rejected!)
-52.212-2 Evaluation of Offers (How the Government will evaluate your proposal: LPTA, best value, specific evaluation criteria)
-52-212.3 Representations and Certifications (this is where you identify what type of small business you are)
-252-232.7006 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.
For Awards:
-Ensure you know your government points of contact.
-Ensure you understand all base access procedures and timelines for getting base access.
Ensure your manifests/ delivery documents have the contract number, contracting officer name, and government point of contact receiving the supply/service.
Other Useful Resources:
North Carolina Military Business Center (ncmbc.us): Great source of information and events regarding Federal and Department of Defense contracting.
Department of Defense Small Business Programs: https://business.defense.gov/ Defense Studies Institute for Military Bases: https:// defensestudies.net/pages/ military-bases-and-units
Grit Over Doubt: What It Really Takes for Women to Thrive in Business
By Masiel Garcia
I don't know if I belong here. What if they figure out I'm not as qualified as they think?
Maybe I just got lucky.
If you've said any version of that to yourself, quietly, in the car on the way to a meeting, or at 2 a.m. staring at the ceiling, you're not alone.
What you're experiencing has a name: imposter syndrome. And for women in business, it is one of the most persistent, underdiscussed barriers standing between where we are and where we're capable of going.
Imposter syndrome isn't a character flaw and it certainly isn't evidence that you're in over your head. Research has consistently shown that it disproportionately affects highachieving women. Women who have done the work, taken the risks, and built something real. The ironic part is this: the more you accomplish, the louder that voice can get.
Something I've learned in building my own business here in Jacksonville is that doubt
doesn't go away before you start. It goes away while you push through.
What Grit Actually Looks Like
Psychologist Angela Duckworth spent years studying what separates people who achieve long-term success from those who don't. Her findings, shared in her TED Talk Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, came down to something surprisingly simple. It wasn't talent, connections, or intelligence. It was grit. The combination of passion and perseverance for long-term goals. The willingness to show up, fall short, recalibrate, and show up again.
Imposter syndrome doesn't say "you can't do this." It says "you haven't done this long enough to believe yourself yet." The antidote isn't a pep talk (although that helps too). It's repetition and the accumulation of evidence.
The
Onslow County Reality
Women-owned businesses are the backbone of our
community, not a niche. Women here are opening storefronts, running service businesses, raising families, and figuring out payroll all at the same time.
They are also often being told, directly or indirectly, that they need one more credential before they're ready. But I’ m here to tell you, they're already ready. YOU are ready. Duckworth's research found that gritty people don't experience less adversity. They just don't let adversity write the final chapter.
What We Can Do Differently
Confidence is not the prerequisite for action; confidence is the result of it. You don't wait to feel ready. You just move, and readiness follows.
Find your community. Isolation is where imposter syndrome gets loud. Surround yourself with women who are building, struggling, and succeeding. These are all parts of the same story.
Document your wins, not for Instagram, but for yourself. When doubt creeps in, that record is evidence.
And borrow Duckworth's lens: the question isn't whether you're struggling. It's whether you're still in it. Whether you'll come back tomorrow and try again.
That's grit. And in Onslow County, I see it every day.
Masiel Garcia, MBA, MA Sociology, is Co-Owner of Reinas, 408 Mill Ave Suite 1101, Jacksonville
Entrepreneurs from Across North Carolina Selected for First SBCN Startup Showdown,
Powered by Wells Fargo
Provided by the North Carolina Community College System
The North Carolina Community College System has announced the entrepreneurs selected to advance as the inaugural statewide cohort for SBCN Startup Showdown, marking the first statewide entrepreneurship initiative of its kind launched through North Carolina's 58 community college Small Business Centers.
Led through the North Carolina Small Business Center Network, the program was designed to identify, support, and elevate emerging business talent from across North Carolina through a structured process of local engagement, regional review, and statewide selection.
The inaugural SBCN Startup Showdown generated strong participation statewide, drawing 316 applicants from across North Carolina and resulting in more than 1,050 hours of pre-application business counseling and technical support delivered through local Small Business Centers. Entrepreneurs worked closely with counselors and directors to strengthen business concepts, prepare submissions, and move through multiple stages of review.
The selected entrepreneurs represent colleges and communities from every region of North Carolina and will now move into the next phase of the program, including business launch training, advanced pitch coaching, and preparation ahead of the formal statewide awards event scheduled for September 17, when final winners will be announced and $60,000 in unrestricted startup funding will be awarded.
"This program demonstrates what is possible when North Carolina's community colleges work together statewide to create opportunity for entrepreneurs," said Dr. Jeff
Cox, President of the North Carolina Community College System. "The SBCN Startup Showdown is creating a new platform for identifying talent, supporting innovation, and helping early-stage businesses build momentum in every region of our state."
"What makes this program especially meaningful is the level of support happening across the Small Business Center Network," said Anne Shaw, State Director of the Small Business Center Network. "Directors and counselors across North Carolina invested significant time helping applicants strengthen ideas, prepare materials, and move confidently through each stage of this process. That statewide commitment is what made this regional selection process so strong and sets the stage for an exceptional statewide competition ahead."
The SBCN Startup Showdown was created to strengthen entrepreneurship pathways by combining direct coaching, structured pitch preparation, and statewide visibility for aspiring entrepreneurs preparing to launch new businesses. Cohort participants will now enter an eight-week Pitch It! training experience designed to guide them through the steps of starting a successful business through hands-on activities that build practical knowledge, while also strengthening presentation skills, sharpening business messaging, and preparing them for their final pitch to the Business Trailblazer program judges in August.
As the inaugural year moves forward, leaders across the North Carolina Community College System see the program as an important addition to the state's broader small business support ecosystem and a model for continued entrepreneurial engagement in the future.
CCCC SBC Client Chosen
There are 17 entrepreneurs representing 16 businesses participating in the inaugural state cohort. Among those is Dan Spangler, a Coastal Carolina Community College Small Business Center client.
Dan Spangler is a Marine Corps veteran, entrepreneur, and founder dedicated to building businesses that solve real-world problems. After being medically retired from the military following a combat injury in Iraq, Dan faced a difficult transition to civilian life. It was during this time that he adopted a rescue dog named Spanky an experience that not only changed his life, but ultimately shaped his career.
In 2010, Dan founded A Dog’ s Dream, a full-service dog resort in North Carolina. Over the next 14 years, he grew the company into a trusted community brand. His leadership and impact earned recognition through the Community Fabric Award for Business Leadership. Dan has since expanded his focus to helping other entrepreneurs succeed through his consulting firm, Top Dog Associates, where he provides practical, experience-driven guidance to business owners. His latest venture, Rinse-A-Poo, is an innovative, patent-pending product designed to improve sanitation and efficiency in pet care facilities and beyond.
Dan combines operational expertise with a deep
understanding of customer needs. He is passionate about creating scalable solutions, mentoring business owners, and continuing to build ventures that make a meaningful impact.
Small Business Center Director April Priester says, “Working with Dan Spangler through the SBCN Startup Showdown powered by Wells Fargo has been an incredible opportunity for Coastal Carolina Community College’s Small Business Center. Dan represents exactly the kind of entrepreneur this competition was designed to support visionary, driven, resilient, and deeply committed to turning big ideas into meaningful impact. We are exceptionally proud to stand beside him on this journey and excited to see North Carolina experience the talent, professionalism, and entrepreneurial spirit that Dan brings to the table.”
Images provided by CCCC SBC
June: Stories Build Loyalty
By Jessica Marshall
People may discover you through marketing, but they stay connected through your story.
As summer settles in and the pace of the year continues to build, June reminds us of something many businesses overlook: people remember how you make them feel. Beyond products, services, and marketing strategies, it is connection that creates loyalty.
“People do not buy goods and services. They buy relations, stories, and magic.” Seth Godin
In today’s crowded marketplace, authenticity is
what separates businesses that are simply seen from businesses that are remembered. Your story is not separate from your business. It is one of your greatest business assets.
According to Harvard Business Review, emotional connection plays a major role in customer loyalty and long-term engagement. Businesses that communicate purpose, authenticity, and shared values build stronger trust over time.
Customers want to know who they are supporting and why it matters.
June is the perfect month to strengthen those connections
by sharing the heart behind your work. People are drawn to businesses that feel genuine, relatable, and consistent.
ADMIN ADVICE:
• Share Behindthe-Scenes: Show the process behind your work, team collaboration, preparation, and growth moments. Transparency builds trust.
• Highlight Others: Celebrate clients, collaborators, employees, or community partners. Helping tell their stories strengthens relationships and credibility.
• Refresh Your Story: Make sure your website, social media, and messaging reflect
your current mission, values, and goals.
• Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge wins both big and small. Shared victories create stronger community and momentum.
• Engage With Intention: Respond to comments, messages, and conversations consistently. Loyalty grows when people feel valued and heard.
Connection is built through presence, authenticity, and storytelling. When you reveal the heart behind your work, you create relationships that extend far beyond transactions.
Let this month be a reminder that your story matters. Share it boldly, connect intentionally, and build the kind of loyalty that lasts.
Jessica Marshall Run It Right Mindset & Business Coaching www.runitright.net
your calendar!
A Place to Find Something Fantastic in Richlands
Filling the space from wall to wall in a former Family Dollar store, Fantastic Finds in Richlands truly has something for everyone.
Founder and owner Charlene Harvey Fausset has been in the business of vendor markets and consignment shops for 30 years. Her love for the business actually started when she was a child, she says. As young as 10, she and her friends “used to buy, sell, and trade things to each other.”
Today, even though she was supposed to retire after she sold her last business, Fausset runs Fantastic Finds for other vendors as she continues to promote her own crafts, including the vintage jewelry found in the case at the front of the store.
Fausset has had nine stores since moving to North Carolina. Some of them were specialty stores, such as Perfect Plus, a boutique featuring plus size clothing. She started out with a consignment shop in Swansboro. She says, “I've had antique stores, auction houses, vendor malls,” adding “just a little bit of this, a little bit of that. It's in my blood.”
Although she says she was supposed to retire then, the day after she picked up her check from the sale of her last business, she signed the lease on the building for her new business. In February 2024, Fantastic Finds opened its doors.
Fausset explains that “I had many stores in Swansboro,
Wilmington, and had several stores in Jacksonville, and I thought Richlands would be a nice place to come because Richlands didn't have anything like this.”
Fausset is assisted by Christina Hudler, who is launching her own shop, Raggin’ Bones, inside a separate area of Fantastic Finds. Hudler’ s business will be taking consignment pieces from area artists to display and sell.
Several vendors through the years have launched from one of Fausset’s spaces. She says those vendors have “opened other businesses and have followed in my footsteps.”
Fantastic Finds is filled with a variety of products, including locally sourced baked goods, jams, honey, and eggs.
There are over 50 vendors offering antiques and collectibles, handmade soaps and candles, children’s items, tools, fishing gear, military items, clothing, and a range of other items. As Fausset says, it’ s “truly a little bit of everything for everyone.”
Fantastic Finds, 8699 Richlands Hwy, Richlands Open Mon-Sat 10am-6pm; Sun 12n-6pm
Below, Christina Hudler and Charlene Harvey Fausset
Training Opportunities
Public Speaking
Think Fast - Speak ClearlyLead Boldly with Jacksonville Toastmasters Every Tuesday at 7pm Miller-Motte College 105 New Frontier Way Jacksonville 3478.toastmastersclubs.org/ directions
Coastal Carolina Community College Small Business Center coastalcarolina.edu/servicesand-support/servicescommunity/sbc/
To Your Credit- Webinar
Tue, Jun 9 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
How to Increase Your Credit Score to Over 740 Points; Prepare for a Bank Business Loan! - SSBCITA
Wed, Jun 10 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
James S. Melton Vocational Skills Center
How to Find Your Customers
Thu, Jun 11 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
James S. Melton Vocational Skills Center
Lunch-and-learn: Handling Customer Complaints Like a ProWebinar
Tue, Jun 16 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Lunch-and-learn: Design to Convert: The Visuals That Make People Click –Webinar
Wed, Jun 17 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Nonprofit Executive Director's Meet Up
Thu, Jun 18 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
United Way of Onslow County
Introduction to Critical Thinking for Small Businesses Owners
Thu, Jun 18 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Continuing Education Building Room 105
Google Business Profile Optimization: Get Found by Local Customers –Webinar
Tue, Jun 23 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
SBA Programs and Resources-Webinar
Wed, Jun 24 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Boots to Business
Thu, Jun 25 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
2 sessions ending Fri, Jun 26
James S. Melton Vocational Skills Center
Responsible Board Governance -RBGWebinar
Thu, Jun 25 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Your Website as a Business Asset: Building Trust and Driving Decisions - Webinar
Wed, Jul 1 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Please note: If you attend a session at the CCCC SBC, complete the follow-up survey. The survey helps the SBC staff tremendously as they plan
future sessions and when they report their attendance for future funding.
CEO Day and Member Photoshoot
The Third Space 516 Court St Ste 200 Downtown Jacksonville June 9: 10a - 1p
Join Bayside Bookkeeping and Run It Right for a day of lessons, collaboration, and content
Estate Planning Workshop
Tuesday, June 23, 2026 (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM)
Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce
Presented by Marena Long, Rizzo and Blackburn Attorney https:// business.topsailchamber.org/ event-calendar/
Lunch and Learn: Building a Bulletproof Business: Cutting Costs, Reducing Risk & Staying Open
Wednesday, June 17, 2026 (11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Surf CIty Campus of Cape Fear Community College 621 State Hwy 210 E Hampstead https:// business.topsailchamber.org/ event-calendar/
Welcome To Entrepreneurship
June 9 | 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
SCORE Cape Fear Region
Cape Fear Community College Small Business Center, Building G, Classroom 113A, 402 North Front Street Wilmington https://www.ncsbc.net/ workshop.aspx? ekey=80460173
Monthly Business Intro Session
Saturday, June 27 11am-12noon
Hosted by Gerald Pierre and TRIBE Wealth Management
Call/text for details 786-277-6099 livemore.net/Pierre Upcoming training events?
Share your news with others in Onslow County (and beyond)
Send your info to onslowbiz@wordsworking.net by June 25 to be included in the July issue.
Running the Numbers
Are they working for your business?
Featuring: Tammy Bridges, Bayside Bookkeeping
Bob Morgan, Financial Advisor
Christina Jordan, Keystone Crest Financials
Business Over Breakfast Friday, July 17
8:30am-10:00am Tiny Chateau 516 Court St , Jacksonville
Learn from experts. Network with others in business. Enjoy a delicious breakfast.
Reserve your seat today
https://onslowbusiness.com/businessover-breakfast/
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