What’s New: Businesses Coming
A number of businesses are opening, closing, and changing throughout the county over the coming months:
Sneads Ferry
Shoreline Market, Grind Records, and Scoops Microcreamery have recently opened in the Sneads Ferry Retail Center on Hwy 210.
House of Breakfast is now under new management.
Richlands
Waffle House has recently opened on Koonce Fork Rd.
A new hotel is planned for that area. The Fairfield by Marriott Inns & Suites will also be located on Koonce Fork Rd.
At that same location, a 5,000 sq ft building will be available soon, which will be suitable for a restaurant or sports bar.
A Cook Out restaurant is also planned.
Swansboro
"Blazin Convenience Store" will be coming soon to 632 W. Corbett Ave.
Jacksonville
A new Wawa convenience store and gas station is being constructed on Western Blvd and will be open soon.
The Grazing Tray Café on Gum Branch Road has closed. The bakers have formed a new company, Rollin in the Dough, that will begin offering cookies and other baked goods online soon.
Ransom Room and Overruled Smash Kitchen have begun construction in the Biagio’s building on Court Street, with planned openings n the next 2-3 months.
Bistro 1940 Downtown is under construction and will be open soon on New Bridge Street.
Making a difference for businesses in and around the Greater Onslow County area: Jacksonville, Swansboro, Richlands, Camp Lejeune, Holly Ridge, Hubert, Sneads Ferry, North Topsail Beach, Surf City, and beyond.
Dixon Business Alliance Recruiting Advisory Board Members
Preparation for success at work starts early in life. Some area middle schools hold mock interviews to help students understand how to communicate with prospective employers. Business classes provide basic information about how the professional world operates.
Even with those efforts, though, high school students are not necessarily prepared for the work world. A recent survey conducted by the Kaufman Foundation found that “only 2 out of 10 students feel high school ‘very much’ has or will prepare them with skills to join the workforce right out of high school.”
Real-world experience caps the educational component and enables students to develop a clearer understanding of what life will be like after high school while they are still in school. To
that end, the business community in the Dixon High School district is coming together to form the Dixon Business Alliance (DBA), with the goal of preparing high school students for that real world of work and business.
DBA’s mission is “To strengthen business and finance education at Dixon High School by building collaborative partnerships between local industry leaders, educators, parents, and students empowering the next generation of professionals through experiential learning, career exposure, and community connection.”
The DBA Advisory Board will meet monthly to work on plans for projects and activities such as mock interviews, job shadowing, site visits, guest speakers, hands-on workshops, and career fairs.
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DBA is seeking individuals who want to be part of the unique and meaningful opportunity to shape the future of business and finance education in the Dixon High School community and who can commit to participating as part of the Advisory Board each month.
The board will meet on the first Tuesday of each month at 9am at the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce, beginning on August 5.
DBA is also reaching out to those interested in becoming business partners, who can host job shadowing students, conduct site visits, serve as guest speakers, and participate in mock interviews and career fairs.
For more information about becoming a member of the Advisory Board or participating as a business partner, contact Advisory Board Chair Pat Fontana at pat@wordsworking.net.
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17blue Digital Marketing Celebrates 25th Anniversary
Over the past 25 years, 17blue Digital Marketing has changed names, expanded and shifted its services, and added team members. Founder Cindy Edwards says that since its launch in 2000, the agency has “served over 750 different clients and brands.”
Edwards and her team recently celebrated their silver anniversary with a ceremony hosted by the JacksonvilleOnslow Chamber of Commerce.
Launched in 2000, the marketing business was originally called By His Design. Edwards says, “we ran under that name for quite a few years because our primary services were graphic design and website design.” She adds that the name represented “kind of a faith journey for us to launch into business.”
Edwards has an education degree and says she was actually teaching when she started the business.” She adds, “I ran it as my side job for the first couple of years until I quit teaching and went full time in the business.”
As client needs changed and technology options advanced, the business shifted to expand its services. In 2017, the name also changed, to 17blue Digital Marketing. Content marketing and digital advertising were added, as more clients needed help in those areas. Edwards says, “demand drove where we went.”
“Communication is more digital than ever,” Edwards adds, but “some of the traditional is still needed.” 17blue still creates brochures and rack cards “and all that traditional stuff.”
She emphasizes that the company serves the “local market with excellence and integrity. If you treat people right, they appreciate that.” 17blue also serves businesses across the country and internationally. Edwards says they are “more interstate and international than we realized,” with clients in Spain, Italy, and Peru.
The 17blue team is behind much of the branding and marketing projects throughout the county. Edwards says that “people see our work all over town and all over Onslow County, they just don't know it.” They’ve launched a promotional campaign of their own, “Have you seen our work?” to show some of their local projects.
That work includes revamping the Onslow County logo, designing the logo and bus wraps for the Onslow United Transit System (OUTS), and revamping the Onslow County Schools logo, in addition to helping many other businesses with their branding and marketing efforts.
While there have been many changes over the past 25 years, Edwards says, “nothing stays the same. It's one of the things
Right, Cindy Edwards speaks to the crowd as she celebrates 17blue’ s 25th anniversary.
Below, the 17blue team: Cindy, Samantha, and Ashley
we like about our field. Change is the only constant and it changes often and fast, so it stays interesting.”
She adds that they “have been blessed with really good clients.” She and her team are
“thankful to all the companies and brands that have trusted us over the past 25 years. We’ re excited to see what’s coming next.”
17blue Digital Marketing www.go17blue.com/ 910-938-4319
Chamber Corner—Networking
By Tammy Proctor Executive Director Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce
It’s all about relationships
Do you have a Facebook page? An Instagram? LinkedIn?
All of these digital media outlets are useful tools for marketing, but you still can’t replace face-to-face relationships.
People still like doing business with people they know.
Face time is important.
Networking is important.
At the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism, we value networking opportunities. We host a number of networking opportunities, such as WomenConnect, Mornings with WomenConnect, Coastal
Connections, Topsail Young Professionals, and more.
Our office is located in a tourism destination. We are a welcome center with a wall of brochures from our members. Visitors love face time. They want to know where the locals like to dine or which charter we used, and the list goes on and on.
New residents find our office and ask for referrals about electricians, plumbers, home décor, and more.
We refer our members because we know our Chamber members, not through Facebook or an Instagram post, but through networking.
The old saying, it pays to know somebody. Well, when it comes
to networking in our business community, it does pay to network. No one tells your business story and knows your expertise better than you.
Networking is imperative.
Get out there and meet your future customers.
The Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism welcomes business owners to an array of networking opportunities:
July 10 – WomenConnect at Nineteen Restaurant in Hampstead at noon
July 22 – Coastal Masterminds, 4-5:30 p.m. at the Chamber Conference Room
July 24 – Coastal Connections, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Freya’s Haus in Scotts Hill
For more information, visit topsailchamber.org/events.
Networking Opportunities
The July holiday week may affect the schedules of regular networking group meetings. Check with each organization to confirm the date and time of their next meeting.
Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce
To register visit the Chamber’ s website: topsailchamber.org/ events
Coastal Connections
Thurs, July 24
5:30-7:30 p.m.
Freya’s Haus in Scotts Hill
Coastal Masterminds
Tuesday, July 22
4:00 PM - 5:30 PM Chamber Office
WomenConnect
All events are free. Attendees order from menus at their own expense.
WomenConnect in Hampstead
July 10, Noon, at Nineteen Restaurant, located at Olde Point Country Club
Mornings with WomenConnect in Holly Ridge Will not meet in July
Mornings with WomenConnect in Hampstead
August 7, 7:30 a.m., at Taste of Sunrise Coffee House
WomenConnect in Sneads
Ferry
August 5, Noon, at Rick’ s Restaurant
Brainstorming
Monthly networking session for sales professionals, sharing ideas and encouragement
July 24, 5:30pm-7:30pm
Uncork Unwine 754 Ramsey Rd, Jacksonville
Veteran Business Collective Chapter Meeting
Thursday, July 17 6:00pm-9:00pm Blackbeard’s Triple Play Restaurant, Jacksonville
veteransbusinesscollective.org/ chapters-events
Richlands Chamber of Commerce
July 30, 9:00am 200 S. Wilmington Street
All local business owners invited
www.richlandschamberofcom merce.com/
Is your group or association planning a meeting?
Swansboro Area Chamber of Commerce
Holds “networking events yearround, including our Business After Hours and General Membership Meetings held monthly.” Contact the chamber for more info. swansborochamber.org/
Professional Book Club
Chop Wood Carry Water By Joshua Medcalf
July 9, 10am Blend Café 109 Marine Blvd, Jacksonville
Do you have regular meetings throughout the year that guests can attend?
Are you trying to build up a business networking group?
Many readers have discovered new networking opportunities by reading Onslow Business
If you want them to learn about your next opportunity, send your meeting notice for August by July 24.
Email: onslowbiz@words-working.net
Registration Now Open for Small Business Outreach Event
Submitted by
Chris Rabassi, CFCM
Office of Small Business Programs
Marine Corps Installations East
When:
31 Jul 2025 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Where:
Coastal Carolina Community College
James S. Melton Vocational Skills Building Room 104 A/B/C 444 Western Blvd. Jacksonville, NC 28546
Purpose of the Outreach Event:
• Inform and educate businesses on the North Carolina-based support organizations available to assist businesses in becoming eligible and competitive for Department of Defense contracts.
• Inform businesses on how to do business with the various contracting organizations aboard Camp Lejeune.
• Provide businesses general information on upcoming opportunities.
Premise of the Outreach Event:
• Many businesses do not know where to start in
becoming eligible and competitive for Department of Defense contracts.
• For existing businesses, there are many new regulations and requirements regarding Department of Defense contracting.
• Many businesses are not aware of opportunities aboard Camp Lejeune.
Goals of the Outreach Event:
• Businesses leave with a greater understanding of the support organizations available to assist them.
• Increase the base of eligible and competitive businesses proposing on Department of Defense contracts. The focus for this event is on being competitive, meaning where to find proposals, how to write competitive proposals, and other key considerations for being competitive.
Planned Presenters Include:
• Coastal Carolina Community College
• North Carolina Military Business Center
• Marine Corps Installations East Small Business
• NCWorks
• NCGrowth
• Marine Corps Community Services
• Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command
• Marine Corps Special Operations Command
• And some special presenters.
Who should participate in the Outreach Event:
• Businesses interested in doing business with the Department of Defense
• Businesses currently doing business with the Department of Defense.
Cost:
Free to all registrants and presenters. However, you must register.
Registration will be limited to 75 attendees so start planning now!
Event Registration Link: https://www.ncmbc.us/event/small-business-outreachcoastal-carolina-community-college/ Is your organization planning a vendor event this fall? Send the details to onslowbiz@words-working.net to be included in the event listing in an upcoming issue.
Top 4 Things You Didn’t Know About the Small Business Center at Coastal Carolina Community College
April Priester Director
Small Business Center Coastal Carolina Community College
When it comes to helping local entrepreneurs and small business owners thrive, the Small Business Center (SBC) at Coastal Carolina Community College is a hidden gem with powerful impact. Whether you’re just beginning your business journey or scaling up, here are four surprising facts you may not know about this dynamic resource:
1. The Team Has Walked in Your Shoes
Every staff member at Coastal Carolina Community College’ s SBC brings real-world experience as a small business owner. That means when you attend a workshop or schedule a one-on-one counseling session, you're talking to someone who understands the challenges and rewards of running a business firsthand. This practical knowledge makes the support not just helpful but relatable and relevant.
2. Training and Confidential Counseling Are Offered at No Cost to You (100% Free)
Yes, really. Coastal offers highquality seminars,
workshops, and one-onone confidential business counseling at absolutely no cost to the individual. Whether you need help writing a business plan, navigating licensing requirements, or exploring funding options, you ’ll receive personalized support without a financial barrier. The center’s only ask? That you complete a confidential impact survey/ client record update annually to help the center continue to provide this invaluable service.
3. Your Feedback Helps With Funding the Future
When clients participate in annual surveys and record updates, they’re doing more than just paperwork they’ re playing a vital role in helping the SBC secure portions of their continued funding. These updates help the center demonstrate its aggregate impact to the State of North Carolina and ensure Coastal remains a leading provider of small business support in the area. Your voice directly supports the future of entrepreneurship in our community. Annual surveys are typically conducted in June or
July of each year, but may be conducted at any time.
4. Part of a Powerful Statewide Network
The Coastal SBC is part of the North Carolina Small Business Center Network, which means you’re connected to a statewide system of support. There’s an SBC within a 30-minute drive of every North Carolinian, making business help accessible across the state. What’s more, Coastal consistently delivers more seat hours of training than any other center in North Carolina a testament to the commitment to serve our unique community when training is needed.
Whether you're a dreamer, a doer, or somewhere in between, the Small Business Center at Coastal is here to support your success one conversation, one seminar, and one breakthrough at a time.
Coastal Carolina Community College
Small Business Center
James S. Melton Vocational Skills Building
444 Western Boulevard, Jacksonville 910-938-6322 www.coastalcarolina.edu
Creative and Sustainable Woodworking Spans Five Generations
The fifth generation of the Dean woodworking family is now at work at a business that traces its roots to 1907, and is already coming up with new and creative ideas. The Dean Company of NC has specialized in creating wood parts for boats and homes for years, and now also specializes in customized cutting boards.
The idea for creating cutting boards out of the scrap wood left over after the other products were finished came from Townsend Dean, after Townsend and Lori Nash visited a sushi restaurant where Lori’s son worked as a chef.
According to Townsend’ s father, Tom Dean (the fourth generation), after seeing the boards used in the restaurant, Townsend asked, "Hey, can I make some surfboard cutting boards?" Tom told him, "Sure, come and draw something on our scraps."
After they made that first cutting board and sold it, Tom says, “it got us thinking of, ‘Man, how do we deal with all our scraps?’” As Tom describes it, “and the next thing you know, we got a little cutting board business.”
That “little” business, Coastal Carolina Cutting Boards, has grown tremendously. Lori Nash is the creative mind behind today’s cutting board selection. She designs and oversees production of each board. Tom
says, Lori “has really made this thing what it is.”
Tom adds that they have since become involved with the GLOW Academy in Wilmington and have met many famous chefs, including Emeril, Giada De Laurentiis, and Guy Fieri. To honor Fieri on his 50th birthday, Lori created a cutting board in his likeness, spiked hair and all.
The Dean Company’s main business is the boat building industry, Tom explains. They provide custom lumber products for a number of major boat manufacturers across the country, some of which they’ ve had a business relationship with for decades.
They also make wood products for homes, including paneling, stair treads, baseboards, and other types of moldings for the flooring industry. Their work for the housing industry is all high-end and usually ends up in a beach home.
Tom emphasizes that “almost half our staff is veterans or spouses of veterans.” He adds that it’s very important to him to hire veterans, as “they deserve everything. We want to be part of that.” One of the woodworking employees has been with the Dean family for 25 years.
Working with sustainable companies is also very important to Tom and the Dean Company. He says that “as long
as we maintain and reforest, wood will be around forever –and we want it to be.”
The woodworking and cutting board facility is located in Camp Davis. In fact, Tom says he was one of the first to secure space in the new industrial park after Tom Rollins bought the property to move his company, Gulfstream Steel & Supply, there.
Tom says of the manufacturing facility and offices, “we're probably around 14,000 square feet.” He adds, “it's a great footprint, and we've got about two acres, so we've got room to expand.”
Customized cutting boards can be ordered online at www.cccboards.com.
Top, Tom and Townsend Dean
Upper right, Tom Dean and Lori Nash
Left, examples of wood products for homes and boats
Right, board made from purpleheart wood
Left, Lori Nash with cutting board made for Guy Fieri (in his image)
Alexis Siebert of Patriot Roofing & Exteriors Appointed to Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
By Cassandra Barba, VP of Sales & Marketing Patriot Roofing & Exteriors
Patriot Roofing & Exteriors is proud to announce that Alexis Siebert, Marketing Assistant at the company, has been appointed to the Board of Directors for the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism. Her term will begin in July 2025.
In her role at Patriot Roofing & Exteriors, Alexis has been instrumental in enhancing the company's brand presence and community engagement initiatives. Alexis is also the founder of the Topsail Young Professionals organization and a member of several other local and industry groups. Her appointment to the Chamber's Board reflects her dedication to fostering local business growth and community development.
"Alexis’s commitment to excellence and her innovative approach to marketing have significantly contributed to our company's success," said Stephanie Bolton, Owner of Patriot Roofing & Exteriors. "We are thrilled to see her take on this new role and are confident she will make a positive impact on the Chamber and our community."
The Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism serves as a vital resource for businesses in the region, promoting economic development and community involvement. As a Board member, Alexis will collaborate with fellow leaders to support the Chamber's mission and initiatives.
“During Chamber events, Alexis has been an active representative of Patriot Roofing & Exteriors,” said Tammy Proctor, director of the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism.
“Alexis demonstrates creativity, organizational, and leadership skills. She will be a welcome addition to our proactive Board of Directors.”
"I am honored to join the Board of Directors and look forward to working with the Chamber to support our local businesses and community," said Alexis Siebert. "This opportunity allows me to further contribute to the growth and prosperity of the Topsail area."
About Patriot Roofing & Exteriors:
At Patriot Roofing & Exteriors, we ’re more than just a roofing company – we ’re a local, female -owned business that’ s passionate about preserving our community’s build history while making homes stronger and more beautiful. As an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor, we are held to the highest standards of professionalism and reliability.
JOED Forges Ahead Toward Success with Key Initiatives for FY 2026
Provided by Jacksonville Onslow Economic Development (JOED)
"Jacksonville Onslow Economic Development (JOED) enters Fiscal Year 2026 with strong momentum, a unified vision, and unwavering commitment from its leadership, staff, and community partners."
Melissa Anderson JOED Chair
Strategic Planning and Community Collaboration
Jacksonville Onslow Economic Development (JOED) enters Fiscal Year 2026 with strong momentum, a unified vision, and unwavering commitment from its leadership, staff, and community partners. Guided by its Board of Directors and Executive Committee, JOED is aggressively pursuing a series of high-impact initiatives that will drive economic growth and strengthen Onslow County’s long-term competitiveness.
JOED is finalizing its next five-year Strategic Plan.
Rooted in broad community engagement, this plan reflects input from public and private leaders, ensuring that JOED’ s vision aligns with Onslow County’s evolving needs. The organization continues to serve
key real estate along the US 17 and NC 50 corridors for jobcreating industrial investment. Leveraging partnerships with developers and local governments, JOED is helping lay the groundwork for new business recruitment and longterm economic impact.
Project Coffee
Progress continues on Project Coffee - a 47 acre commercial and industrial park near Swansboro. With funding support from Golden LEAF, comprehensive due diligence is presently underway, including environmental assessments, boundary surveys, and infrastructure design. These essential steps, made possible through both public funding and JOED's leadership in managing the process, are preparing the site for future industrial or commercial development that will benefit the entire region.
to continuing its support for the retention and expansion of existing industries in Onslow County. JOED continuously fosters strong relationships among our business partners, actively responds to urgent business needs and works to leverage our unique military presence for workforce development.
Looking Ahead: Strength in Leadership and Vision
JOED has renewed energy and focus for FY 26. As JOED implements its priorities in the coming year, investors and partners can expect transparency, professionalism, and strategic execution. With the continued support of its private investors and public partners, JOED remains a cornerstone of economic development in Onslow County creating jobs, strengthening local industries, and enhancing the quality of
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
Jacksonville Onslow Economic Development (JOED) is the lead economic development entity in Onslow County. The organization is focused on stimulating, encouraging, and promoting economic development throughout Onslow County and its municipalities. JOED achieves its mission through the recruitment of new businesses, the creation of quality jobs, and the retention and expansion of existing industries.
JOED works closely with partners such as Onslow County, the City of Jacksonville, the towns of Holly Ridge and Swansboro, North Carolina's Southeast Partnership, GoldenLEAF Foundation and the North Carolina Department of Commerce, and serves as a prime example of a successful public-private partnership driving long-term economic prosperity.
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
The Power of Collaboration: Women in Healthcare Joining Forces for Enhanced Patient Care
By Victoria Fincham Chief Operating Officer, Tidal Therapy Solutions
As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, the importance of collaboration among various professionals is becoming increasingly vital. Women in healthcare are leading the charge in transforming the industry to better serve the unique needs of both female healthcare workers and patients, ultimately enhancing overall patient outcomes.
Collaboration among physicians, specialists, mental health therapists, and rehabilitative therapists such as those in speech, occupational, and physical therapy creates an environment where effective communication flourishes. This synergy allows for the development of well-rounded and comprehensive treatment plans that address the diverse needs of patients. By working together, healthcare providers can respond more effectively to various patient challenges.
The Importance of Teamwork in Patient Care
Teamwork among healthcare providers is essential for improving patient care. When doctors, therapists, and specialists work closely together, they can blend their knowledge and skills to create focused, comprehensive treatment plans. Open communication is key; when medical professionals engage in discussions about a patient’s condition, they gain a deeper understanding of the situation. This collaboration leads to more accurate diagnoses and more effective treatment options, considering the insights of various team members.
Collaborative efforts among healthcare providers enable the development of treatment plans that encompass both short-term and long-term goals for patients by integrating different fields of therapy, ensuring that every aspect of a patient's health is addressed. This teamwork
empowers patients and their families to play active roles in their recovery journey; by soliciting and valuing patient feedback, providers can create tailored treatment plans that foster a more supportive healing environment. Additionally, strong teamwork simplifies the management of referrals and follow-ups, ensuring that patients receive timely care, which not only reduces waiting times but also enhances the overall experience for those seeking treatment.
Importantly, collaboration in healthcare extends its benefits beyond individual patient care and into the community. By joining forces, healthcare providers can initiate charitable efforts and community outreach programs that address local needs. This collective commitment to giving back fosters a sense of purpose and reinforces the impact that healthcare professionals can have on the broader community. As providers work together to create support systems and resources, they contribute to a healthier, more resilient society, underscoring the value of collaboration in every aspect of healthcare.
Empowering Women in Healthcare
Women have made significant strides in reshaping the healthcare landscape. By fostering collaboration in patient care and addressing industry challenges, women in healthcare are not only enhancing patient services but also creating support systems that tackle professional hurdles. This collaborative spirit is especially beneficial for women seeking a better work-life balance.
The expansion of communication and the dismantling of barriers between practices have diminished silos, revealing that grueling work hours and a lack of home life are not the
only paths in healthcare careers. This shift has empowered women in healthcare to challenge traditional norms of extended work hours and diminished personal time. Increased collaboration among healthcare professionals has led to more women starting their own practices with guidelines that promote flexible schedules, enabling them to balance their professional ambitions and personal lives. This shift recognizes the importance of mental health and personal time, allowing healthcare workers to recharge while continuing to succeed in their careers.
Women-led practices play a vital role in mentoring newer practitioners and therapists, emphasizing the importance of knowledge-sharing and professional development. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, these professionals stay updated on best practices and advancements in medicine, which ultimately enhances patient care. This mentorship extends beyond individual practices, providing valuable support across various clinics and facilities.
Collaboration within healthcare teams offers both emotional reassurance and professional camaraderie, effectively alleviating the feelings of isolation that often accompany the demanding nature of the field. A supportive work environment not only boosts morale but also translates into greater focus and dedication to patient care.
Additionally, diverse perspectives within collaborative teams lead to innovative problem-solving, where creative solutions can be developed for treatment strategies, refining approaches and improving patient outcomes.
A Call for Continued Collaboration
As we navigate the complexities within healthcare, it is essential for women in the industry to break down barriers and seek collaborative opportunities with other physicians, specialists, therapists, and peers. Valuing communication, teamwork, and shared goals not only improves patient outcomes but also cultivates a more compassionate healthcare experience.
In summary, collaboration among women in healthcare has the potential to transform the delivery of patient care. By working together, these professionals can establish supportive networks that prioritize comprehensive and patient-centered approaches. As we continue to advocate for these collaborative practices, we pave the way for improved health outcomes and a more equitable healthcare system. Together, we can ensure that every patient receives the care they deserve.
Tidal Therapy Solutions
325 Sound Rd. Suite 200
Holly Ridge www.tidaltherapync.com
Tidal Therapy Solutions’ Laura Futrell, Sheena Cannady, and Daniele McLean (Provided by Tidal Therapy Solutions)
July: Celebrate Progress & Keep Asking Questions
By Jessica Marshall Run It Right Business Coaching and Marketing Solutions
As the summer sun shines brightly and fireworks light up the sky, July offers us a moment to pause, reflect, and reignite our passion for progress. It’s a season of celebration yes but also a pivotal time to check in with your business goals and prepare for a powerful second half of the year.
Jim Rohn once said, “If you ask, someone has an answer. You keep asking, the answers belong to you because, by virtue of asking, you qualified.” That’s the spirit we ’re embracing this month: curiosity, intention, and the power of asking the right questions.
The most successful entrepreneurs know that learning never stops. Whether it’s through mentorship, trial
and error, or simply raising your hand in a room full of leaders; growth is fueled by the questions we dare to ask. So ask. Ask again. And use the answers to level up.
Never Stop Seeking Answers for Business Growth
July reminds us that the pursuit of knowledge is not a box we check, but a daily decision. Don’t be afraid to reach out, attend that workshop, or challenge the status quo. Every question opens a door to better systems, clearer goals, and smarter strategies.
Admin Advice: Prepare for a Smooth Second Half
• Review Your Progress: Are you on track with your business goals? Adjust your strategy if you’ve veered off
course there’s still time to pivot.
• Check Financial Performance: Are you hitting revenue targets? Take a close look at expenses and identify areas where you can tighten up or invest more wisely.
• Evaluate Your Team: Are your employees motivated and productive? Make sure they have the tools and support needed to succeed.
• Audit Inventory: Avoid costly mistakes by ensuring
you ’re not over- or understocked heading into the second half of the year.
Let July’s energy fuel your momentum. Celebrate how far you ’ve come and get excited about where you’re headed. Keep asking. Keep learning. Keep building. Your business isn’t just surviving it’ s evolving.
For a free consult email runitright.llc@gmail.com
Getting Past the Barriers to Disaster Planning
Submitted by Carly Johnson Business Counselor, SBTDC
Many small business owners typically face constant demands on their time and attention. Day to day operations, cash flow management, customer service and employee issues consume their focus, making it difficult to prioritize planning for hypothetical future events. Owners often operate with limited financial and personnel resources. Creating comprehensive disaster plans requires time and expertise that many small businesses feel they can’t spare from their core business needs. And many owners simply don’t know where to start with disaster planning. The process can seem overwhelming and unnecessarily complex. It doesn’t have to be.
Here are words of wisdom from one small business owner after their business was impacted by hurricane flooding.
START BY ACCEPTING THE TRUTH:
The first step was honestly acknowledging that disasters don’t just happen to “other people.” After seeing three businesses on my street close permanently after the flooding, I realized my “it won’t happen to me” mindset was pure fiction. Looking at actual disaster statistics for North Carolina was my wake-up call.
BREAK IT DOWN INTO BITESIZED TASKS:
Don’t try to build a comprehensive plan overnight. I blocked just 30 minutes each Friday afternoon – when my
mind was already shifting to weekend mode – and focused on one small piece:
• Week 1: Just list your critical operations
• Week 2: Identify your most important documents and data
• Week 3: Create a basic contact list of employees, vendors, and clients
PIGGYBACK ON EXISTING ACTIVITIES:
I attached disaster planning to tasks I was already doing. When I renewed my insurance, I actually read the policy and noted the gaps. When I updated employee contact info, I created an emergency call tree. When I backed up my accounting data, I expanded that to other critical files.
MAKE IT PERSONAL:
What finally motivated me was thinking about my employees who depend on me. Could I look them in the eye if my lack of planning cost them their jobs? My disaster plan became about protecting them, not just my bottom line.
USE BASIC TOOLS, NOT PERFECT ONES:
I started with simple tools: just a Google Doc and a folder in the cloud for critical documents. No fancy software or consultants. Something is infinitely better than nothing. And now you can use ChatGPT or other AI tools. You can simply enter a description or profile of your business – your
industry, number of employees, location. Instruct the AI tool to create a simple risk assessment and template for action steps. AI suggestions are surprisingly easy to tailor and are usually quite useful.
FIND YOUR ACCOUNTABILITY PARTNER:
I checked in with my SBTDC counselor regularly. We outlined simple steps for me to accomplish each week. Telling someone else you’re going to do something creates powerful motivation.
MAKE IT RELEVANT TO TODAY:
Connect disaster planning to current business challenges. When I was struggling with employee turnover, I realized how vulnerable that made us in a disaster scenario. Suddenly, cross-training became both a daily operations improvement AND a disaster planning step.
Remember, perfect is the enemy of done Even a bare-bones plan puts you miles ahead of where I was when disaster struck.
What’s one small step you could take this week?
Set up a meeting with your SBTDC counselor today to get started on your plan. We can serve as your sounding board and accountability partner.
https://sbtdc.org/locations/ wilmington
"The pessimist complains about the wind. The optimist expects it to change. The leader adjusts the sails."
~~John Maxwell
Future-Proof Your Business with Forward-Thinking
Submitted by Cowanda Bazile Owner of Express Employment Professionals of Jacksonville, NC
We may not be able to predict the future, but leveraging forward-thinking can chart a path with strategy, direction, and purpose. This mindset puts proactivity ahead of reactivity, allowing freedom to design the future instead of being limited to responding to situations and circumstances.
For high-functioning teams, forward-thinking creates momentum to collectively work toward success and agility to anticipate issues, identify new opportunities and adapt as needed.
Become Forward-Thinking
Forward-thinking is an actionoriented mindset that requires a change in behavior to be effective. Showing commitment, being positive, leveraging innovation and listening are behaviors of forward-thinking leaders, according to Behavior Leader
When striving to improve forward-thinking, use these questions to evaluate ideas and gain an understanding of how actions in the present may influence the future:
• What is the long-term impact of this decision?
• How will this change workflows or processes?
• What may be the unintended consequences?
• How does this support overall business goals and company strategy?
• What has failed or succeeded previously that can guide our decisions now?
Anticipated Outcomes
Results are never guaranteed and will vary by workplace, industry and goals. However, when practicing forwardthinking, outcomes may
include process improvements, planning ahead, strategic initiatives, risk-taking and challenging the status quo.
When forward-thinking is the norm, questioning why processes and workflows function as they do and asking “what if” to spur new ideas becomes part of the workplace culture. Culture is never changed overnight but is formed by consistent actions and encouraged behaviors. It may be tempting to focus solely on the future, but don’t lose sight of living in the present. Take time to celebrate accomplishments, recognize employees and embrace today. Forward-thinking is an essential element to growth and advancement, however, reflection on the past and appreciation for the present are good for energy and motivation
Embrace forward-thinking to build a resilient and dynamic team ready to tackle tomorrow's challenges.
The Jacksonville Express office is located at 461 Western Blvd #118 and serves the Onslow, Craven, Carteret, Jones, and Lenoir counties. Local businesses and applicants are encouraged to stop by, visit www.expresspros.com/ jacksonvillenc, or call (910) 355-0060.
Training Opportunities
Coastal Carolina Community College Small Business Center
coastalcarolina.edu/ services-and-support/ services-community/sbc/
Small Business Bootcamp
James S. Melton Vocational Skills Center
Wed, Jul 9 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
How to Start a Mobile Food Business: Pedal to the Metal- Webinar
Online
Thu, Jul 10
6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Streamline Your Small Business with Artificial Intelligence
James S. Melton Vocational Skills Center
Sat, Jul 12
8:00 AM to 10:00 AM
Introduction to Prompt Engineering
James S. Melton Vocational Skills Center
Sat, Jul 12 10:15 AM to 12:15 AM
Artificial Intelligence for Marketing
James S. Melton Vocational Skills Center
Sat, Jul 12 1:15 PM to 3:15 PM
Work with Your Documents: Leveraging GenAI to Craft, Collaborate with Your Content (non-legal)
James S. Melton Vocational Skills Center
Sat, Jul 12 3:15 PM to 5:15 PM
How to Find Your Customers Using Social Media- Webinar
Online
Tue, Jul 15 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
How to Start a Small Business- MCB Camp Lejeune
John A. Lejeune Education Center, Room 112, Camp Lejeune
Wed, Jul 16 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Building Your Business Credit - Webinar
Online
Thu, Jul 17 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Grant Writing The Basics - Webinar
Online
Tue, Jul 22 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Boots to Business
James S. Melton Vocational Skills Center
Thu, Jul 24 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
2 sessions ending Fri, Jul 25
BNFAC- Brand Like a Pro: Crafting Your Signature IdentityWebinar
Online
Tue, Jul 29 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Small Business Outreach- Doing Business with the Government
James S. Melton Vocational Skills Center
Thu, Jul 31
9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce Lunch and Learn
How to Maximize Social Media for Your Business
CFCC Auston W. Burke Center
July 30
11:30am – 1:30pm
https://www.ncsbc.net/ workshop.aspx? ekey=80440213
Small Business Administration Online https://www.sba.gov/events
MySBA Certification Training: Mentor Protégé & Empower to Grow Programs
Tuesday, July 8, 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
MySBA Certification Training: Certification Eligibility Requirements
Thursday, July 10 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
MySBA Certification Training: Navigating the Application Process
Thursday, July 17 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
MySBA Certification Training: Deep Dive into Entity-Owned/8(a) and HubZone Applications
Tuesday, July 22 2:00 - 3:00 p.m
MySBA Certification Training: Continuing Eligibility and Compliance
Thursday, July 24 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
State of the Community Discussion Hosted by Jacksonville-Onslow Chamber
The Jacksonville-Onslow Chamber of Commerce’ s annual State of the Community discussion was held on June 12.
Panelists discussed each of their challenges and concerns, as well as plans for growth and expansion.
It was noted during the conversation that Onslow County is the 10th most affordable county in North Carolina.
The event was hosted by Laurette Leagon, Chamber President, and sponsored by the Jones-Onslow Electric Membership Corporation.
Left to right: BGen Ralph J. Rizzo, Jr, Commanding General, Marine Corps Installations East Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune; Col Garth W. Burnett, Commanding Officer, Marine Corps Air Station New River; Capt Anja Dabelic, Director, Naval Medical Center, Camp Lejeune; David Heatherly, President, Coastal Carolina Community College; Dr. Christopher M. Barnes, Superintendent, Onslow County Schools; Tim Foster, Chairman, Onslow County Commissioners; Sammy Phillips, Mayor, City of Jacksonville; Bob Dupuis, Panel Moderator
Mark your calendars for the
Business Success Summit
Friday, Sept 26, 9am-1:30pm Holly Ridge
Conference and expo
Educational sessions, workbook, vendor exhibits, lunch, and networking!
Registration opens July 15
Watch the Onslow Business website (onslowbusiness.com) and Facebook page (www.facebook.com/onslowbusiness) for registration links
Conference registration: $35; Vendor registration: $95
Sponsorship levels: $200, $350, $500
Onslow Business is published on the 3rd of each month (or the business day closest to the 3rd).
This unique and valuable business publication is available free at over 70 locations throughout the county. Want to be a part of it? Check out onslowbusiness.com to learn how to promote your business, find print copies, and read previous issues.
Thanks for reading!