Onslow Business - October 2025 by onslowbusiness

MED Award Winners Announced

The Jacksonville-Onslow Chamber of Commerce has announced the Minority Enterprise Development (Day) winners in two categories. The organization will celebrate the winners at the MED Day Awards Luncheon on Thursday, October 9, at the Montford Point Marine Association Conference Center.

The celebration is part of MED Week, typically observed during the first full week of October. The designation dates to 1981 when President Ronald Reagan signed a Presidential Proclamation to establish the week as Minority Enterprise Development Week.

The MED Award winners are:

2025 Diverse Entrepreneur of the Year: Anthony Gonzalez

Anthony Gonzalez, owner of Anthony’s Barbershop, is the Jacksonville Onslow Chamber of Commerce 2025 Diverse Entrepreneur of the Year. For the last five years Anthony Barber Shop has been that very special place that feels like home, treats you like family and creates quality, professional hair styles.

2025 Linda L. Richardson Business Advocate of the Year: Tydrea Russell

Tydrea’s commitment to the Chamber’s Business Diversity Council is exemplary. She consistently goes above and beyond to support business owners, offering her time, expertise, and resources to ensure their success. As a chamber ambassador, Tydrea represents the Chamber with professionalism and enthusiasm. She actively invites new companies to networking events, helping them integrate into the local business scene.

MED Day Awards Luncheon

Thursday, October 9, 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM EST

Montford Point Marine Association Conference Center 148 Brynn Marr Road Jacksonville

Tickets are available on the Jacksonville-Onslow Chamber of Commerce website: https:// jacksonvilleonline.org/.

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.

(Business descriptions and photos provided by the Jacksonville-Onslow Chamber of Commerce.)

Next Month: November Issue Focused on Business Resources

Onslow Business is celebrating our first anniversary in November. We are giving our readers a present to celebrate.

The November issue will be focused on resources for businesses and people in business throughout Onslow County.

Do you provide a service or product that will benefit other businesses or aspiring entrepreneurs?

Send us the following:

• Your name

• Business name

• Address (if applicable)

• Website

• Contact info

• A brief description of your business. The description should be one or two paragraphs only and is subject to editing to ensure it fits the resource listing appropriately.

The resource listing is a factual description of what your business offers.

To promote your business, you can also reserve ad space in the November issue.

Published on November 3, and distributed at over 80 locations that week, the November issue will be perfectly timed for your holiday promotions.

For ad space details, go to https://onslowbusiness.com/ promote/.

Email onslowbiz@wordsworking.net with your information and to reserve your ad space for the November issue.

Deadline is October 24.

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

Building a Network of Support for Women in Business

A central location in downtown Jacksonville for women who need a place to work, to network, and to learn is important to Eleanor Thomas. A creative individual who owns a jewelry business herself, Thomas recognized that Jacksonville “needed a coworking space, a space where we can meet regularly and be in a room full of other likeminded, empowered women.” InventHer Studio has become that space.

Thomas says she had traveled to different parts of the area, such as Carteret County, to participate in women’ s networking and learning events and recognized that similar opportunities were not readily available in Jacksonville.

Thomas explains that her idea “began with texting a few friends back and forth about upcoming events or potential

networking and learning opportunities.” Then she developed a Facebook group from there, to enable more women to share more resources for their businesses.

Thomas says they then decided to have in-person meetups at a café. That location has since gone out of business and, she says, she “realized we needed a place that was more than just that once a month, or once every other month when I had time to set it up. I just wanted a place where we could come regularly and get together and connect.”

InventHer was brought to life as a place that was “something a little bit more structured and available all the time.” Thomas adds, it’ s “also a place where the learning opportunities are there and are affordable.”

Affordability is critical for area women in business, Thomas

says. She keeps membership fees as well as fees for classes and office rental reasonable.

She has also collaborated with a number of area businesses to offer discounts to InventHer Studio members.

networking and a space to work and learn can be.

The space itself features a coworking space complete with wifi and printer access, a photo studio for product shoots, private offices that can be rented by the hour, and open spaces for networking with other women in business. Members can host “lunch and learn” workshops and attend sessions at a discount.

Having operated her jewelry business, Celestial Daydreams, since 2015, Thomas says she knows how important

She adds, “I’ve met so many other small business owners and we've just built this really tight network of support for each other.”

InventHer Studio 624 New Bridge St, Suite 600, Jacksonville connect@inventherstudio.com (910) 375-9298 www.inventherstudio.com/

Eleanor Thomas

Chamber Corner: A Membership with Benefits

By Mike McHugh Executive Director Swansboro Area Chamber of Commerce

A drive down a commercial airport's runway or a ride to the top of landfill isn't something offered to the general public. But if you're a member of the Swansboro Area Chamber of Commerce it's one of the many benefits available to members.

The chamber has a free, members-only program called "Lunch & Learn....On The Road," that takes members on field trips to interesting places around the region.

Recently the chamber toured the Onslow County Landfill and adjoining Sonoco Recycling Materials Recovery Facility. Members were given a brief by Onslow County Solid Waste Directer Jamie Harrell and Sonoco's Plant Manager Amanda Schival.

Albert J. Ellis' Director Mitch Sprunger welcomed a group of SACC members for a "behind the scenes" tour of the only North Carolina county-run commercial airport. They learned about the 5-year Capital Improvement Plan that includes a 900-foot lengthening of the runway to 8,000 feet.

In the future, scheduled L&L's will take members inside the Onslow County Jail and Onslow County Courthouse led by Onslow County Sheriff Chris Thomas and his command staff.

These field trips are beneficial to both the members and the entities they visit. Members gain insight into each operation and the Harrell's, Schival's,

Sprunger's and Thomas' get to showcase their operations and perhaps gain ambassadors to spread their message.

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

jacksonvilleonline.org/ Laurette Leagon President

Richlands Chamber of Commerce 8112 Richlands Hwy., PMB 48 Richlands, NC 28574 910-601-5266 or 910-389-6220

www.richlandschamberofcomm erce.com/ richlandsncchamber @gmail.com

Diana Barnes King Director

Swansboro Chamber of Commerce

714 W Corbett Avenue Suite 14 Swansboro, NC 28584

910.326.1174

Want to be part of the fun? Learn how you can join the chamber and get involved by calling 910-326-1174 or email SwansboroAreaChamberofCom merce@gmail.com

swansboroareachamberofcom merce@gmail.com

swansborochamber.org/ Mike McHugh Executive Director

Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of North Carolina (FILAMCCNC)

3537 M L King Jr Blvd #50 New Bern, NC 28562

801-577-0193 www.filamccnc.com

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 80 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!

Albert J. Ellis Airport Director Mitch Sprunger explains the baggage system to Swansboro Area Chamber of Commerce members during a "Lunch & Learn...On The Road" on Sept. 25, 2025. (Mike McHugh photo)

Networking Opportunities

Check with each organization to verify dates and times.

Greater Topsail Area

Chamber of Commerce

All events are free. To register visit the Chamber’s website: topsailchamber.org/events

Coastal Masterminds

Tuesday, October 21

4:00 PM - 5:30 PM Chamber Office

Topsail Young Professionals

October 14, 5:30-7:30 p.m. N. Sea Oyster Company

WomenConnect attendees order from menus at their own expense.

WomenConnect in Sneads Ferry

October 7, Noon

Rick’s Restaurant

Mornings with WomenConnect in Hampstead

October 2, 7:30 a.m.

Taste of Sunrise Coffee House

WomenConnect in Hampstead

October 9, Noon Nineteen Restaurant

Mornings with WomenConnect in Holly Ridge

October 23, 7:30am

Southern Roots Grille

Brainstorming

Monthly networking session for all sales professionals, sharing ideas and encouragement

October 30, 5:30pm-7:30pm

Uncork Unwine 754 Ramsey Rd, Jacksonville

Veteran Business Collective

Breakfast Meeting Friday, October 3 8am Blend Café

Chapter Meeting Thursday, October 16 6:00pm-9:00pm Blackbeard’s Triple Play Restaurant, Jacksonville

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 yearround, including our Business After Hours and General Membership Meetings held monthly.” swansborochamber.org/

Professional Book Club

Moving the Needle by Joe Sweeney

October 8, 10am Blend Café 109 Marine Blvd, Jacksonville

Jacksonville Onslow Chamber of Commerce

Small Business Council Networking Session

Thursday, October 2 8:30am-10:30am

The Commerce Center: 1099 Gum Branch Rd., Jacksonville

From Kitchen Table to National Brand: Blue Water Candy

In its 25th year of operation, a company that literally began at a kitchen table now occupies an expansive warehouse in the heart of Camp Davis. Jodie Gay, the avid fisherman who always tied his own lures, established Blue Water Candy with his wife Terry in 2001. The business has grown and expanded and is now a nationally known brand throughout the fishing industry.

The venture eventually involved daughter Jessica, who started working with her parents while still in high school. A few years later, Russell Weaver joined the team. Russell began fishing with Jodie in 2007 and went to work for him shortly afterwards. Russell and Jessica met through Jodie and the business and were married in 2013.

Over the past 25 years, Blue Water Candy moved from the Gay family kitchen to a garage to a back room built behind their house. A couple of years ago, they decided they needed a warehouse because the business had grown so much. In February 2024, they moved into a facility they built in the Camp Davis Industrial Park in Holly Ridge.

Today, Russell is the Production Manager and Jessica is the CFO for Blue Water Candy. Terry is still involved in some of the marketing activities as well. Unfortunately, Jodie passed away in 2024, while doing what he loved best, fishing.

All of their lures are still hand tied. As to the name of the business, the family has a lot of fun coming up with different names for different products and that also applies to the company name. Russell says, “ a lot of people think, when they hear the name, that we’re salt water taffy.” He adds, “If you notice any of our products, we have some odd names for our products. Jodie and Ms. Terry thought if you could keep an odd name, it would be something catchy that people would remember. So

every time we come out with a new product, we say, okay, everybody submit your suggestions for what this product should be named.” They then consider the names and put it to a vote.

Some product names reflect their shape, their use, or their color. Others are named for children and grandchildren. One, a casting jig for Spanish, blue fish, and trout, is called a Thingama Jig because, Russell says, “some people say ‘thingamajig’ when they can’t remember what it’s called.”

They also get a lot of requests for custom products. Russell says they are happy to accommodate and “as long as you don't change the materials to a more expensive material, we don't charge you any extra fee to tie it the way you want it.”

In addition to their line of hand -tied lures designed for saltwater fishing, Blue Water Candy offers rigs, bags, bait pens, and apparel. Russell also offers advice by speaking to various groups, with sessions that are “informative as far as different styles of fishing, different products, and how to

use them to catch more fish.”

Russell says the business is committed to being involved in the community, sponsoring the Topsail High School baseball team and providing product donations for local fishing tournaments.

Blue Water Candy products are available in large, national stores as well as smaller, local businesses.

Blue Water Candy https:// bluewatercandy.com/

Russell Weaver

Planning to Lease a Commercial Space?

Matt Ray, owner of Ray Properties, answers some questions you may have when you are considering applying to lease a commercial space for your business.

What does a business owner need to have prepared before applying to rent a commercial space?

The more documentation the applicant can provide, the better. Ideally, this would include a business plan, bank statements, Secretary of State classification, the last three years of tax returns, current proof of income, and any additional sources of income verification.

As the agent, our role is to compile a complete package for the owner that clearly demonstrates the tenant’ s ability to pay rent consistently.

This includes not only the ability to meet rent obligations under normal circumstances, but also the financial stability to continue paying rent should unforeseen challenges arise, at least until the unit can be released.

The stronger the tenant’ s financial profile, the more compelling their application will be.

What does the application process involve?

The applicant will complete an online application, which authorizes us to obtain their credit report and provides an overview of their financial profile.

Once this information is received, we will proceed with reviewing the full financial package and evaluating the overall viability of the company.

Is the application process similar to that required of someone renting a residential space?

Yes, but with an emphasis on the larger financial picture rather than a clear income vs expense to see if a potential residential Tenant can afford to pay residential rent.

Are there credit or income checks involved?

Yes, we complete a full credit background on all company principals, an income background on the call principals, and a criminal background on all principals.

Are references required?

Not necessarily required but certainly welcomed. Especially if it is a local owner, and the business will be maintaining the same use.

Is there typically a deposit required?

Yes, generally after being approved for the space, the first month's rent and security deposit are required upfront before we will get into lease prep.

Anything else a business owner needs to know before deciding to rent a commercial space?

Make a case for your business and the Tenant’s ability to pay rent; the stronger ase that can be made, the likelier the Tenant will be approved.

Matt Ray

Ray Properties Inc. 3684-C Henderson Drive Jacksonville, NC 28546 910-388-6620 www.rayproperties.com

An Analog Approach to Artificial Intelligence

By Chris Rabassi

One very specific thing has become very clear to me as I reflect over my 54 years of life. That one thing is I am artificially intelligent. Yes, I have a master’s degree, I have sat through hundreds of, if not several thousand, hours of civilian and military classes. However, at the end of the day I am just a big brute who approaches most things with brute force and not with analytical precision.

With the existence of artificial intelligence (yes, it is here right now in our daily lives) how is this brute going to survive in this brave new world?

Well, turns out there is one way, calm down and take an analog approach to artificial intelligence (AI). I am sharing this article with you because I have taken several AI classes over the past few months and believe this information will help business not only be more competitive for Department of Defense contracts, but in their commercial businesses as well.

What is an analog approach to artificial intelligence (AI) and why is this article in a business journal? Great questions!

An analog approach to artificial intelligence means you need to understand how you function, what drives you and how your business runs without technology. Then, once you understand your why, your business processes and procedures you can effectively implement AI applications to enhance your business and increase revenue.

Why is this in a business journal? A recent AI class I attended, hosted by Genesis Block in Wilmington, had a slide showing only 12% of businesses are using AI applications. My immediate thought when I saw that slide is “how many of the 12% are using AI properly?”

Spoiler alert! If your business is only using AI to send out mass e-mails and texts, you are essentially driving a Ferrari in

1st gear. Now, this article is not a class on AI applications. If I mention an AI application it is only to say either how I am using, or how I am spending money on it, and not using it at all. What? Yes, not all AI applications are free.

On 12 July 2025, I had the privilege of receiving the best classes I have received on artificial intelligence and large language learning models so far. The class was at Coastal Carolina Community College, and it was taught by Martin Brossman and Dr. Justin Rose. I left the class with a more realistic approach to and view of AI. The only gap I saw is what this article is focusing on, which is the analog of AI. I encourage you to go check out the AI classes these gentlemen provide in YouTube, because they are very useful.

The analog of AI is knowing how your business functions without AI. Meaning:

• How do you communicate?

• What are your daily processes and procedures?

• How do you authenticate payments?

• How do you interact with your customers?

• How do you define your needs and requirements?

If you don’t know the answers to these questions, and many more, then AI is not going to help you in business. In fact, it could potentially cost you customers and money. Yes money. Right now, I spend $150 a month on three AI applications, ChatGPT, Predis and Zeely. Guess what, I am not even using Predis and Zeely, so I am wasting money right now!

So far, the free version of ChatGPT has met my expectations and produced some beneficial results. I have used it to prepare for an interview as a museum guide for the Carolina Museum of the Marine, to do some research on some personal projects and to create business plans for some future ideas. The business

plans were the most compelling and interesting. Keep in mind, when you are using ChatGPT you are not doing a normal search engine search. ChatGPT is a large language learning model, so you have to “prompt” it properly. My prompt was:

“Act as a business analyst, provide a business plan including expenses and projections, for a (my business) in Jacksonville, NC 28540”

Within less than a minute I had a detailed business plan with expenses, recommended actions for each of the first three years, and other recommendations. I sent this plan over to my friends in Business Development at Coastal Carolina Community College. They evaluated this plan through ChatGPT, which provided valuable comments on what was missing, what else needs to be considered, and more valuable insights. All this took less than 10 minutes. If I did all the research and work on my own it would have taken me weeks, or even months.

Now, I would not take this plan to get a loan or open a business. However, it saved me, and the Business Development folks, a massive amount of time and created a product where we could have more meaningful discussions.

The best approach to AI right now is to understand yourself, what drives you, how you process information, and how you conduct business. Once you have confidence in these areas, you can then find the AI applications that best fit you.

NOTE: "This article represents my own thoughts and do not necessarily represent Marine Corps positions, strategies or opinions.”

Coastal Carolina expands to Camp Davis

Emily Eure Ellis, Public Information Officer and Executive Director of the College Foundation for Coastal Carolina Community College provided the following information regarding the college’s purchase of land in Camp Davis.

The plan is to establish a workforce development site in Holly Ridge.

What inspired the college to expand into Camp Davis?

The Coastal Carolina Community College Board of Trustees supports the cooperative efforts with the town of Holly Ridge at the Camp Davis Industrial Park due to the growing industrial and residential development in Holly Ridge. College President David Heatherly noted that the

region is rapidly evolving, comparing it to the seamless growth seen between Hampstead and Wilmington. The college saw an opportunity to contribute to workforce development in the area, especially after UPS withdrew its plans to build a distribution center on the site

Details of purchasing:

The Holly Ridge Town Council approved the sale in early September 2025, shortly after repurchasing the land from UPS.

Projected timeline for completion of a new facility:

Coastal Carolina Community College hopes to begin construction within the next two years, aiming to address immediate workforce

training needs in the short term while planning for broader educational offerings in the long term.

Plans for the new facility:

The new facility is envisioned as a workforce development center that may include:

• Shops

• Classrooms

• Laboratories

• Adaptable industrial training facilities

The initial focus will be on industry-specific training, such as:

• OSHA compliance

• Equipment operation and repair

• Other technical and vocational programs

While the short-term emphasis is on supporting local businesses and industrial needs, the college will be working with community leaders to shape the facility’ s long-term role, which may include programs for the general public.

Making Coffee and Conversation in Richlands

In October 2020, Cali Yore opened a coffee shop on Richlands Highway. On the surface, that might seem like a fairly routine business opening. For Yore and for the Richlands community where she was born and raised, though, it meant a lot more.

Yore had worked in the legal field for several years and had attended real estate school. At one point, she decided she “needed something a little bit more low-key, a little bit less stress.” She adds that she and her husband, Kelly, “ are very goal-oriented people, so it was more so just needing something that fit our quality of life a little bit better than the standard 8 to 5, Monday through Friday.”

Launching a new business during COVID required a few extra precautions. Yore explains that they had to have “a little extra social distancing at the time, just for safety. We had the air purifiers in here that were HEPA filters.” Other than that, she said, they had no issues.

In fact, the new coffee shop was well received by the community. Yore says, “community has just been a big part of it.” That was the goal: through coffee, “to have a place for people to come and

just enjoy a coffee and conversation and a warm environment.”

Their coffee is clean and organic, Yore says, adding that it’s important to her that nothing has any additives. She explains, “everything is designed to be as clean as possible without all those chemicals and all of that being added into it, because it gets pretty crazy out here.”

Syrups and chai are homemade and the matcha is powder-based with no additives. Besides being clean, the beverages have a unique flavor. Yore says, “between our homemade syrup and our coffee not being available locally, it comes with a really specific taste profile.”

The Coffee Co. is now a popular gathering spot. Prayer groups and others meet there on a regular basis. A large back room is available for special events. It was in that back room that Cali and Kelly planted their own church. They are senior pastors at Victory Church, which is now located down the road on Advance Lane. Kelly runs the In Rhythm Percussion Studio as well, also located on Richlands Highway.

In addition to coffee and tea selections, The Coffee Co.

offers bakery items prepared by Triple C Sweets, also a Richlands-based business. The shop promotes other local businesses who sell products such as lotions and candles there. In addition, they promote books from local authors.

Yore says her favorite memory is “sitting in a Cuban café. And that was very simple.” She says that when she opened The Coffee Co., “I think I was craving simplicity at that

point. But I also love my community. Richlands is my home, so just to be able to share something with somebody else in our community is always cool.”

The Coffee Co. 8700 Richlands Hwy Suite A, Richlands Monday-Saturday, 6am-7pm Sunday, 7am-6pm https://richlandscoffee.co/

Cali Yore

Protecting Your Data: Responsible AI Practices for Small Businesses

By Kate Statz SBTDC Statewide Administrative Office

Artificial intelligence is transforming how small businesses work by saving time, streamlining operations, and opening new doors for growth. From automation to autonomous systems that support customers and streamline operations, AI brings efficiency and innovation. Yet with these benefits comes the responsibility of protecting sensitive business information. Confidentiality is not optional, it is essential for building trust and sustaining long-term growth.

Responsible data practices must be at the center of AI adoption. Confidentiality comes first. Never input personally identifiable information (PII), including names, contact details, or financial records, into AI systems. Maintaining this standard protects data integrity and organizational credibility. Reframe prompts with anonymized data instead. For example, replace “Draft an email campaign for client Susan Lee at ABC Consulting” with “Draft an email campaign

for a consulting client.” Small shifts like this preserve confidentiality while still producing valuable insights.

Second, and equally important, is knowing who you ’re trusting with your data. Before adopting any AI tool, review its security and privacy policies. Confirm how data is stored, whether the system complies with federal and state regulations, and what safeguards are in place. Explore subscription tiers, higher levels often provide stronger protections:

• A professional tier may include multi-factor authentication and data retention controls.

• An enterprise tier may offer end-to-end encryption and compliance certifications such as SOC 2, HIPAA, ISO 27001, and GDPR.

Top-tier options can include zero-retention policies, sovereign cloud hosting, and compliance support with customized contracts.

Evaluating these differences helps you select the best fit for

your business needs. AI evolves daily so it’s important to keep up with the changes and how they may affect and possibly enhance your business.

Third, train employees and establish clear guidelines for AI use. Confidentiality is everyone ’s responsibility, from the C-suite to frontline staff. Ongoing education, real-world examples, and a written policy on acceptable use help employees make informed decisions. Just as important, AI should enhance not replace human judgment. Every AIgenerated output should be reviewed for accuracy and appropriateness.

When small businesses embed confidentiality and transparency into their AI strategy, compliance becomes more than a checkbox, it becomes a competitive advantage. Small businesses

that embrace AI responsibly not only protect their data but also strengthen customer trust and credibility.

The Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC) offers free and confidential counseling to help entrepreneurs navigate the many facets of starting and growing a business.

Our services include guidance on business planning, financial projections, marketing strategies, and much more.

To register for counseling, visit SBTDC.org, click on “Become a Client,” then select the Wilmington location. From there, fill out a short questionnaire about your business so we can understand your needs and how best to support you.

October: Harvesting Success and Preparing for What’s Ahead

By Jessica Marshall Run It Right Business and Mindset Coaching

As we move closer to the end of the year, October offers us a season of reflection and reward. With its colorful foliage and spirit of harvest, this month reminds us that success is rarely sudden. Instead, it’ s the result of consistent effort, steady growth, and intentional learning.

Jim Rohn once said, "Let your library be a testimonial of your dedicated interest in accelerated personal development that you will read whatever you have to read." His words point to an essential truth: just as farmers cultivate their fields, business owners must continually nurture their knowledge and skills. The harvest we reap depends on the seeds we plant and the care we invest along the way.

This month, take time to celebrate the fruits of your

labor. Look back on the goals you ’ve pursued throughout the year, acknowledge the milestones you’ve achieved, and reflect on the lessons you ’ve learned, especially from challenges. Growth doesn’t only come from success, it also comes from the wisdom gained through setbacks.

At the same time, October is about preparing for what’ s ahead. Just as trees shed their leaves to make way for new growth, it’s time to let go of outdated strategies, habits, or beliefs that no longer serve your vision. Clearing space now creates room for stronger opportunities in the year to come.

Admin Advice: Harvest the Fruits of Your Labor

• Review Year-to-Date Financials: Celebrate the wins and identify areas needing

improvement. Numbers tell the story of your business journey.

• Express Gratitude: Take time to thank clients, partners, and team members.

Appreciation strengthens loyalty and builds lasting relationships.

• Plan for Year-End Reporting: Begin preparing for financial reports and taxes now to make year-end smoother and less stressful.

Evaluate Inventory: Anticipate holiday demand by

reviewing stock levels and ensuring your offerings meet customer needs.

October is both a season of reward and renewal. Celebrate what you’ve accomplished, release what no longer works, and recommit to growth through learning and adaptability. Let this month’ s harvest remind you that your dedication today lays the foundation for an even more fruitful tomorrow.

Contact Jessica at Runitright.llc@gmail.com.

Dixon Century Club Announces Inaugural Golf Tournament Opportunity for Business Engagement

By Vicki Fincham

The Dixon Century Club is excited to announce its inaugural Golf Tournament, set for November 8, 2025, with all proceeds directly benefiting the athletes of Dixon High School. This event not only serves to support youth sports but also presents valuable opportunities for the business community to engage with a cause that fosters teamwork, leadership, and community spirit.

Golf enthusiasts and community members are invited to participate in this fun-filled day on the greens. Participants can register individually or form teams of four. With a registration fee of just $100 per golfer, attendees not only get to enjoy a day of golf but also contribute to the sustainable development of our local athletic programs, providing

youth athletes with essential resources.

“This tournament is a wonderful opportunity for our our local businesses to show support for our studentathletes, while simultaneously networking with other community leaders,” said Vicki Fincham, Dixon Century Club. “We are excited to see golf lovers unite for a meaningful cause, enhancing relationships through camaraderie and competition..”

The event promises to offer a lively atmosphere, with prizes for top performers, raffle opportunities and networking chances with fellow business and community leaders.

Event Details:

- Date: November 8th, 2025

- Location: North Shore Country Club | Sneads Ferry

All proceeds from the event will be allocated to Dixon High School athletics program, ensuring that local sports programs continue to thrive and provide essential opportunities to our studentathletes. Additionally, various sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses wishing to support the event without participating directly.

To register or to explore sponsorship opportunities, visit https:// www.dixoncenturyclub.com/ golf-tournament

Join us in championing the future of Dixon High School Athletics. Together, we can create positive change in our community while strengthening business connections and showcasing our collective commitment to youth development.

Contact: Vicki Fincham Dixon Century Club Info@dixoncenturyclub.com

Registration Fee: $100 per golfer

Onslow Memorial Hospital Expands Access to Comprehensive Breast Cancer Care in One Location

Submitted by Onslow Memorial Hospital

As Breast Cancer Awareness Month begins, Onslow Memorial Hospital is highlighting not only the breadth of its breast health services but also the efficiency and convenience of delivering them in a single location. For many patients, that means receiving screenings, treatment, and follow-up care without the disruption of traveling long distances or taking extended time away from work.

“Having the full spectrum of care available here in Onslow County makes a meaningful difference for patients and their families,” said Dr. Penney Burlingame Deal, President and CEO of Onslow Memorial Hospital. “We can support women from early detection through treatment and recovery, all within our community hospital, close to home.”

At the Onslow Women’ s Imaging Center, advanced mammography and ultrasound technologies enable quick and accurate diagnostics. If surgery is necessary, patients can consult with Dr. Nicki Downes at Onslow Surgical Clinic. For radiation therapy, they can transition seamlessly to Onslow Radiation Oncology under the

guidance of Dr. Darrel Ross and Dr. Bryce Lord. A dedicated patient navigator ensures that individuals move through each step of their care without unnecessary delays or added stress.

This coordinated model of care not only improves patient experience but also reduces indirect costs, such as lost work hours and travel expenses, that can weigh heavily on families.

Community support programs further strengthen this model. Julie’s Pink Warrior Project, managed by the Onslow Memorial Hospital Foundation, has already provided nearly 400 free mammograms to uninsured and underinsured residents, while partnerships with the Onslow County Health Department expand access through the state’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program.

In October, OMH will host two major events to encourage early screening and community involvement. The Miles for Mammos 5K, on October 18, raises funds to support ongoing access initiatives, and a breast screening day is scheduled for October 31 at the Women’ s Imaging Center.

With these programs and a centralized approach to care, Onslow Memorial Hospital positions itself as a critical resource for women’s health in the region, offering lifesaving services without the added burden of distance or time away from work.

For more information on breast health services and events, visit Onslow.org/ Pink-October.

Economic Development Strategic Plan Finalized

The strategic planning process occurs every five years for Jacksonville-Onslow Economic Development (JOED). The most recent process began in August 2024 and culminated in a new strategic plan that was published and launched in August of this year.

Susan Edwards, First Bank Senior Vice President and the Strategic Planning Chair for the organization, says JOED “engaged municipal partners as well as the business community. We wanted to be sure we reached out to the entire community.”

One of the main goals of the plan is to review and improve the brand identity. Edwards says, “We want people to make sure that they understand that when you're looking at Onslow County, there's a huge area out there.”

Edwards explains the organization is also reviewing their bylaws, “to make sure everything is aligned.” She adds, “we want to make sure our structure is correct, our bylaws are correct, and that kind of thing.”

Another focus is hiring a new Executive Director for the organization. That process will probably start in the first few months of 2026.

The Strategic Plan Steering Committee includes Edwards, Terry Ashby with Southern Bank, Cowanda Bazile with

Express Employment Professionals, County Commissioner Royce Bennett, consultant Roy Herrick, Franky Howard with ONWASA, and Melissa Kepes with Ray Properties.

Edwards adds that the committee also involved representatives from the different townships within the county.

Strategic Plan Goals

• Attract, Retain, and Support the Start Up of Businesses that Diversify the Economy and Provide Well-Paying Jobs

• Leverage the Talent Pipeline

• Develop and Deploy a Brand Identity that Attracts Business, Investment, and People

• Connect Onslow County, Municipalities, and the Private Sector to Advance Community and Economic Development Initiatives

• Invest in JOED and Implementation of the Strategic Plan to Ensure the Community’ s Economic Development Goals are Realized

JOED https://joednc.com/

Vision Statement

A diverse and resilient economy for Onslow County where businesses and communities prosper and thrive Mission Statement

JOED supports the community's economic development vision through recruitment, product development, business retention, and entrepreneurship; strengthening assets; and fostering strategic collaborations between the public and private sectors.

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Training Opportunities

Business Success Summit Friday, October 3

8:30am-2:00pm Sneads Ferry Community Center onslowbusiness.com/ conference/

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

SBTDC

Virtual Workshops https://sbtdc.org/events

Crafting an Effective Capability Statement

October 7

Navigating the Federal Procurement Process

October 14

Financials that Speak Bank

October 16

Navigating NC’s Government Contracting Landscape

October 21

Coastal Carolina Community College Small

Business Center coastalcarolina.edu/servicesand-support/servicescommunity/sbc/

To Your Credit- Webinar Tue, Oct 7 6:00pm to 7:30pm

How to Start a Small Business- MCAS New River

Wed, Oct 8 9:00am to 4:00pm MCAS New River, Bldg AS212, Room 222B

Needle Movers: Tools to Instantly Connect, Engage and Grow your AudienceWebinar Thu, Oct 9 6:00pm to 8:00pm

Expedition to EntrepreneurshipMindset Map: Discovering your Entrepreneurial Mindset Mon, Oct 13 5:30pm to 8:30pm