Greater Wilmington Business Journal - June 5 Issue

Water and wine Wilmington couple creates hybrid Page 31

June 5- 18, 2020 Vol. 21, No. 11

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WEB EXCLUSIVE

SPECIAL FOCUS TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS

Virus funds What the money will be used for wilmingtonbiz.com

SPECIAL SECTION ON REOPENING THE ECONOMY PAGE

BANKRUPTCIES: Is it a viable option?

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PORT NEWS: Despite virus, business grows

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NEW PRODUCTS: Device firm now sells PPE

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PHASES: What’s here, what’s next

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ATTRACTIONS: Battleship reopens

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Index Health Care ........................................4-5 Banking & Finance ................................ 7 Economic Development ......................8-9 In Profile...............................................12 The List ..........................................25, 26 Real Estate..................................... 28-29 Business of Life.............................. 30-31

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PHOTO BY MICHAEL CLINE SPENCER

Beach update: Tony Platt serves food to customers at SeaWitch Tiki Bar in Carolina Beach. The restaurant reopened as a result of eased coronavirus restrictions.

NOT A NORMAL SEASON CORONAVIRUS SERVES UP TOURISM HURDLES

BY CECE NUNN or the SeaWitch Tiki Bar in Carolina Beach, Memorial Day weekend typically serves up the most lucrative part of the summer tourist season.

Jenni Gilewicz, who owns the SeaWitch with her husband, Alex Gilewicz, said the weekend leading up to Memorial Day on May 25 went more smoothly than anticipated at the restaurant, where the bar portion had to remain closed by state order because of novel coronavirus COVID-19 rules.

The Memorial Day weekend crowds were out in the area’s beach

F

towns, including Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach and Carolina Beach, for what is traditionally the kick-off to the busiest tourist months of the season.

But thanks to the coronavirus pandemic, that doesn’t mean the results were the same. The local tourism industry is dealing with virus baggage that’s expected to be around for a long time.

“To practice safe social distancing, our sales were about a third of what they normally are,” Jenni Gilewicz said, “so it’s definitely still taking a hit. It’s better to be open at this capacity than nothing so we’ll take

it. But it’s definitely different saleswise.”

FOLLOWING THE RULES

The better-than-nothing sentiment describes the latest phase for many businesses that rely on tourism throughout the Cape Fear region as the state’s phased reopening continues. Hotels in North Carolina were allowed to open during the first phase that started May 8, but some local restrictions remained in place.

Meanwhile the second phase, which started May 22, allowed restaurants to open for indoor dining at 50% See TOURISM, page 10

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| FROM WILMINGTONBIZ.COM |

Businesses, leaders react to protest BUSINESS JOURNAL STAFF

T

ed Coughlin, CEO of Ironclad Brewery, worried June 1 about what the repercussions might be for downtown Wilmington after a George Floyd protest the previous evening that caused some damage.

Wilmington became another city in the U.S. to be touched by the protests, sparked by the death of George Floyd, an unarmed African American man, during an arrest in Minneapolis on May 25. The damage resulting from protests was much worse in larger cities across the nation and in North Carolina, including Raleigh.

During the protest in the Port City, someone broke a window at Coughlin’s Second Street business, which he had closed about two hours early, at 8 p.m. May 31, because of the protest. Later, someone also broke windows at a few Castle Street businesses, said Terry Espy, president of the Downtown Business Alliance.

The protest came as downtown Wilmington businesses were beginning to reopen on a limited basis

PHOTO MICHAEL CLINE SPENCER

Sounding off: George Floyd movement protesters gather in downtown Wilmington on May 31.

after the lifting of some coronavirus restrictions.

“I think the people who were like, ‘Hey let’s go downtown,’ after months of not going might change their minds,” Coughlin said. “I think it’s going to further delay people coming unfortunately to downtown.

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But the strong police presence put together by local officials – I really think it would have been far worse last night if it weren't for that.”

Damage to downtown Wilmington businesses was minimal, said Ed Wolverton, president and CEO of Wilmington Downtown Inc.

District Attorney Ben David said June 1, “We need to ask a profound question, and that is why are we not on fire today and why aren't store windows broken out like so many other places in America that are dealing with this issue?”

He attributed it to two factors: the response of law enforcement to disperse the crowd as tensions increased downtown and words of caution that some African American leaders circulated before the event.

A group had gathered for a peaceful protest May 30 at the 1898 Memorial in downtown Wilmington.

Vance Williams, with the local Black Lives Matter chapter, is convinced that supporters of both leftand right-leaning extremist groups were at the event May 31, including residents from outside the area. He said June 1 that when he observed the protest downtown, he asked several attending where they were from and got out-of-state responses.

Deputies with the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office arrested nine people as a result of the protests.

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| HEALTH CARE |

C

Addressing chronic illnesses online

hronic diseases continue to be a focus for the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina, even as its fitness centers remain closed to members.

The local YMCA recently restructured its evidence-based health initiative programs so that they can be provided virtually.

VICKY This month it launched new classes, starting with its diabetes prevention, blood pressure self-monitoring and Healthy Weight and Your Child programs, according to a news release. Other classes also are moving online for Moving for Better Balance.

“Our YMCA is one of the first in the nation to offer these programs virtually,” program coordinator Bridget Carroll said. “While social distancing practices are in place, we

JANOWSKI

PHOTO C/O YMCA OF SOUTHEASTERN NORTH CAROLINA

Virtual learning: Healthy Weight and Your Child is one of the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina’s programs moving to online components, with the aim of enabling families to lower their risk of diseases and improve their health.

strongly encourage anyone that is at-risk for chronic disease like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or childhood obesity to make the most out of this time at home and consider participating in these programs to lower their risk and improve their

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health.”

Like other indoor gyms across the state, the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina has not been allowed to reopen its fitness centers yet. The state did not include the category in the list of facilities and businesses

that could open to the public when it moved into the latest phase of loosened restrictions on May 22.

The YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina’s classes, for qualifying participants, were expanded in collaboration with Y-USA and the N.C. Alliance of YMCAs, officials said in the release.

“We have seen a lot of growing interest in these programs because classes can now be completed at home, making it a lot more convenient for participants, especially those with children in our Healthy Weight and Your Child program,” said Sarah Gibbs, the local YMCA’s director of financial development and marketing. “We hope that our community will make the most of this time at home and do what they can to reduce their risk and adopt some healthy lifestyle changes.”

In the diabetes prevention program’s virtual sessions, adults at risk of type 2 diabetes participate in online group sessions led by a certified diabetes prevention lifestyle coach.

The four-month blood pressure

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| HEALTH CARE | self-monitoring program includes online nutrition seminars, personal consultations and a blood pressure monitor so participants can track their blood pressure at home.

Moving for Better Balance is a taichi fall prevention program for those aged 60 and older. The 12-week program teaches different tai-chi forms and warm-up exercises to increase strength, stability, improvement of balance and mobility. Those virtual classes are set to start in early July.

The Healthy Weight and Your Child Program is geared toward whole families understanding how the home environment and other factors influence choices that lead to a healthy weight. The 15-week program, which is slated to launch virtually June 15, covers healthy eating, regular moderate-high intensity physical-activity and behavior change.

Children and their caregivers receive a free YMCA membership while they are in the program.

Obesity affects 17% of all children and adolescents in the nation – triple the rate from a generation ago, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. One in six children are obese, and one in three are overweight, which poses greater

risks for adverse health problems such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, high triglycerides (cholesterol) and mental health issues.

“The YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina has a long history of advancing the health and well-being of children in our community,” Carroll said. “Healthy Weight and Your Child is a proven program to help kids improve their health and experience higher self-esteem.”

America.

“I wanted to get back to my roots of providing thoughtful care, unsurpassed expertise and personalized attention that patients deserve,” Goudarzi said in the release. “This boutique-style setting focuses more on patient experience and quality of treatment rather than quantity of patients or a clinical environment with long-wait times, various providers, etc.”

Goudarzi reopens Scarless Vein Care in Leland in May

PPD announces $1.2B in senior notes offering

Surgeon Kamran Goudarzi is relaunching his Scarless Vein Care as an independent boutique practice.

Goudarzi resigned from Vein Clinics of America in April to focus on the new venture, which opened in May at Waterford Medical Center, 509 Olde Waterford Way in Leland, according to a news release.

“Dr. Kamran sold his Wilmington vein-care practice to DermOne, which was then acquired by Vein Clinics of America,” the release stated.

Scarless Vein Care’s website points out that Goudarzi is not affiliated with DermOne or Vein Clinics of

Wilmington-based PPD Inc. has announced the offering of $1.2 billion in senior notes, according to a news release.

Jaguar Holding Company II and PPD Development L.P., both indirect wholly-owned subsidiaries of the company, upsized and finalized the terms of the offering of $500 million aggregate principal amount of 4.625% senior notes due 2025, and $700 million aggregate principal amount 5% senior notes due 2028, stated the release.

The aggregate principal amount of the notes to be issued in the offering was increased to $1.2 billion from the

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previously announced $700 million.

“The notes are expected to be guaranteed on a full and unconditional basis by the company and certain of its subsidiaries, including subsidiaries that are borrowers or guarantors under such borrowers’ senior secured credit facilities. The offering of the notes is expected to close on June 5, 2020, subject to customary closing conditions.

“The company estimates that the net proceeds from such offering will be approximately $1,811 million, after deducting the initial purchasers’ discounts and estimated offering expenses. The company intends to use the net proceeds from such offering of the notes, together with cash on hand, to redeem all of the 6.375% Senior Notes due 2023 issued by Jaguar and Pharmaceutical Product Development LLC in August 2015,” stated the release.

The notes and related guarantees are being offered to qualified institutional buyers “in reliance on Rule 144A under the Securities Act, as amended (the “Securities Act”),” and outside the U.S., only to non-U.S. investors pursuant to Regulation S, stated the release.

-Christina Haley O’Neal

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SPECIAL FOCUS: TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS

BANKING & FINANCE

A

A look at the bankruptcy option

s the U.S. economy continues to reopen, financial troubles for businesses and individuals are still here or looming. Many will be looking JENNY for debt relief, especially if the economy is slow to recover.

“From everything I’m hearing, in a few months this situation is going to be really bad; the word some are using is ‘tsunami,’” said Richard Cook, an attorney and owner of bankruptcy practice Cape Fear Debt Relief.

CALLISON

BE PROACTIVE

Cook said that anyone struggling financially as a result of COVID-19 restrictions should take steps right away to avoid becoming overwhelmed.

Cook “If you have a mortgage, contact your mortgage lender. Most monthly mortgage statements have the contact number,” he said, noting that many mortgages, while they are serviced by a financial institution, are actually owned by a federal agency such as Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, the VA, FHA or USDA. “Forbearance options are there,” Cook continued. “And contact your other creditors. Car lenders are working with borrowers, pushing out repayments. Landlords may be different, but with the courts closed, [eviction] cases won’t be heard right away. Landlords have no requirement to offer help, but if their mortgage debt is being temporarily adjusted, they might pass along that forbearance.”

Cook added that many credit card companies are offering some type of deferral.

Forbearance is available also for federal student loan borrowers. However, Cook said, the key here is understanding that the term means “temporary postponement” and it’s important to look ahead at what happens when the forbearance period ends – probably in three to six months. How should a person

or business plan to dig out from all those deferred costs?

Cook recommended that people looking at a deep well of financial problems contact a bankruptcy attorney. Many, he said, offer free consultations.

“Here’s what not to do right now: Don’t cash out your retirement,” Cook said. “If you do file for bankruptcy, your retirement account is protected from creditors.”

Wilmington attorney Algernon Butler III also emphasized that point.

It’s an unfortunate but well-intentioned impulse, when people or business ownButler ers see themselves or their company in financial distress, he said.

“In an effort to do what they believe is the right thing, they start withdrawing retirement funds to pay [debts]. But [retirement funds] are protected in bankruptcy. Your retirement account cannot be taken in a bankruptcy case,” Butler said.

“It’s almost always a mistake to fund a failing situation with retirement funds, but we see it all too often.”

Butler is a partner with the civil law firm Butler & Butler, which has a specialization in financial reorganizations, including bankruptcy. He thinks that individuals and small corporations in the Wilmington area will experience financial hardship as a result of how the country has reacted to COVID-19.

“I feel strongly that we need to responsibly permit businesses to reopen and get people back to work,” he said. “Unfortunately, some individuals and companies may find it in their best interest to consider, as one option, a bankruptcy reorganization.

“While I don’t ever endorse bankruptcy as a first resort, I think that in emergency situations like this, where financial distress is out of someone’s control, then it’s wise to at least consider bankruptcy – the pros and cons – as something that may be in a person’s or company’s best interest to allow them to get back to being productive as soon as possible.”

BANKRUPTCY CHAPTERS

Butler added that bankruptcy offers some “very powerful” relief but it also involves some serious responsibilities.

“It can be complex and dangerous to navigate without a bankruptcy specialist,” he said. “Every situation, every set of facts is different.”

There are different types of bankruptcy processes, each with its own set of regulations and each detailed in a separate chapter of the bankruptcy code. Chapter 11, used most often by businesses, is designed to help an organization discharge its debts and get back on its feet.

“One of biggest things business owners misunderstand about bankruptcy is they think it means they will have to shut down,” said Laurie Biggs, an attorney with New Bernbased firm Stubbs Perdue, which represents clients in Eastern North Carolina, including Wilmington. “It’s not a going-out-ofbusiness sale. Chapter 11 is designed to help them restrucBiggs ture their debt and stay in business.”

Even individuals who have complex financial situations sometimes must file under Chapter 11, she added.

In Chapter 11, the debtor must meet some minimum payment requirements, Biggs continued. “You propose a plan based on what you can pay. My goal is always to help that business owner repay as much as they can, the way they can afford.”

Chapter 7 bankruptcy, on the other hand, often means total liquidation of a business, but can be a good way for an individual with few assets to pay off debts. It is a viable option for someone who does not own real estate or investments – which would be taken to pay off debt – but perhaps has a mountain of unsecured debt, such as credit card balances or medical bills.

“Chapter 7s generally discharge debt within six months,” Butler said. “You are in and out relatively quickly.”

And then there is Chapter 13, which is the option chosen by most individuals, he said.

“Chapter 13 is reorganization: If [people] need up to five years to repay or catch up with certain debts or taxes, and need a payment plan,” Butler explained. “It’s a really simple, streamlined, economical personal reorganization.”

RECENT CHANGES TO REGULATIONS

The federal CARES Act, enacted in late March, made a change to Chapter 13, Butler explained.

“Any individuals who are currently in a Chapter 13 reorganization, which normally offers a repayment plan of up to five years, may extend their plan to up to seven years if they need to because of financial distress caused by the COVID crisis,” he said. “They can go back to bankruptcy court and ask for their plan to be extended. It gives them more flexibility to repay their debts.”

There has also been a significant recent change to Chapter 11 regulations that Butler said could really help a small business.

“Under the [2019] Small Business Reorganization Act there was a new type of Chapter 11 reorganization enacted in February of this year,” he said, mentioning that this provision was contained in Subchapter V of the chapter. Not only is the Subchapter V bankruptcy process usually less expensive, but “It is much easier for the corporate owners who must take their company into bankruptcy, and it’s less expensive for owners to retain their equity in the corporation after a plan is confirmed.”

Biggs said that Subchapter V removes many parts of Chapter 11 that don’t work well for small businesses.

In addition to making the process quicker and cheaper, she added, “it removes some provisions that require all creditors to agree to the plan.

Normally, in a regular Chapter 11 case, when you file a plan, all your creditors get to vote on it. If they don’t agree, you have to go to court.

“In a Subchapter V, creditors either accept the plan or reject it, but they don’t get to vote. It doesn’t allow creditors to hold up the process through objections to the plan. [With Subchapter V, a small business] is avoiding big-corporation issues.”

In March, Congress made a further small-business friendly change.

Originally, Subchapter V reorganizations could be used by businesses whose debts did not exceed $2.75 million. But that debt limit was raised to $7.5 million for one year, making more small businesses eligible for this streamlined, less expensive process.

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

N.C. Ports sets sail with big opportunities The N.C. State Ports Authority expects to see some direct economic benefits from landing the larger ships visiting ports along the East Coast.

Last month, the authority made history with the largest container ship ever to CHRISTINA HALEY visit the Port of Wilmington.

The MV Hyundai Hope’s trip to the port May 20 marked a significant step in developing economic opportunities for the region and state, said Paul Cozza, executive director of the N.C. State Ports Authority, also known as N.C. Ports.

“Taking in these larger vessels opens up the possibilities for new trade impacts. Directly, with these ships coming in, we’re going to expect some more volume connected with that, somewhere about 15% to 20% more,” Cozza said, adding that

O’NEAL

PHOTO C/O N.C. PORTS

The next big chapter: Major capital improvement projects at the Port of Wilmington over the years have made way for one of the largest container vessels visiting ports along the East Coast, the HMM's MV Hyundai Hope, which arrived at the Port of Wilmington on May 20.

the indirect economic ripple effects from the big ships will be seen in the future as more come in.

Operated by Hyundai Merchant

Marine (HMM), the nearly 14,000 TEU (20-foot equivalent unit) vessel is in a partnership with a large shipment group called THE Alliance,

which for Wilmington, links the port to others in Asia and South America.

For every additional container service connecting North Carolina to Asia that N.C. Ports can attract, there’s a direct economic impact of $3.7 billion, Cozza said. North Carolina’s Wilmington and Morehead City ports combined contribute about $15.4 billion to the state’s economy every year.

The significant big-ship milestone in the authority’s history, however, comes amid the COVID-19 pandemic and its overall impact on the trade and transportation industry worldwide.

“We’re right now doing much better than ports around us on the container side,” Cozza said. “And what started as a supply-side issue has now turned into a demand issue.”

When COVID-19 cases began to be reported in China around the Lunar New Year in January, the impact of the manufacturing shut down there created a dip in overall shipping, which resulted in the canceled sailings at many U.S. ports this year.

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Although manufacturing overall has since returned in China, restarting trade and shipping there, the impact still can be felt in the ports’ schedule.

Since March, N.C. Ports has had on its books a total of 14 scheduled canceled sailings, also called blank sailings, due to COVID-19 trade effects, with some of those cancellations happening through July.

But there is still uncertainty in the overall global market. And the authority has forecasted about an 8% to 9% revenue decrease in the next fiscal year, which starts July 1, Cozza said.

By the end of this fiscal year, however, N.C. Ports still expects to record-setting revenue numbers, he said.

The capability to bring in larger ships also puts N.C. Ports in direct competition with neighboring ports along the East Coast and opens the Port of Wilmington to more markets, Cozza said. More ocean carriers could come to the Port of Wilmington because of its added capabilities.

The pivotal moment in N.C. Ports’ history came following the completion of several projects in its $221 capital improvement plan: the purchase of three new neo-Panamax

cranes; a second-phase turning basin expansion; major construction to its docks; and raising the height of power lines that cross over the Cape Fear River.

Each of the projects was geared towards luring 14,000 TEU vessels and growing the port’s capabilities to handle two such vessels at the port simultaneously.

The MV Hyundai Hope docked at the port a little more than one month after N.C. Ports completed the second phase of its turning basin expansion project, the final piece in its plan to get these big ships to the docks.

Still, more is in the capital plan for projects on land, including updating its terminal operating system and improvements to its gates.

“We know that we have an identifiable underserved market here in the Carolinas,” Cozza said.

Shipping companies putting larger vessels in-play offer more efficiencies that can help bring down costs and add service elements at the port, he said.

“All of that will come into play,” Cozza said. “N.C. Ports is very much now on par [with], if not better than, the competition around it. That then

will bring additional economic contributions and development.”

Survey shows downtown economic loss A recently released economic study conducted by Wilmington Downtown Inc. shows more significant job losses and sales for some downtown businesses as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

Wilmington Downtown Inc. (WDI) sent a survey to about 475 mostly small business owners within the district, and received a total of 68 responses from business owners or managers, according to a news release.

The May survey is the second such economic impact survey completed by WDI to gauge the effects of COVID-19 on downtown businesses.

The first survey took a look at impacts in March and early April.

When comparing employment Feb. 1 to the number of employed May 1, business owners reported a 55% reduction in full-time employees and an 83% decrease in part-time workers, according to the survey.

In terms of sales and revenues, 51% of the respondents reported

sales and revenues decreased by about 90% in April, when compared to that same month the previous year. “This is up from 28% reporting losses of this size in the previous survey,” WDI officials stated in the release.

The data is a snapshot of the impacts and was provided largely by those who own or manage restaurants, bars, galleries, inns and attractions, officials said.

In April, only some essential retail shops could be open, restaurants were still only able to offer carry-out meals and hotels had strict occupancy limits due to state and local restrictions.

More businesses are opening their doors now that the state has started its phased system of reopening the economy.

“These data-driven reports provide valuable insights that we are using to shape our recovery and economic development efforts,” WDI Chair Dane Scalise said in the release. “WDI is committed to obtaining and sharing this information with the public and other community leaders so that we can work collaboratively to regain jobs and sales for our small businesses.”

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FROM THE COVER

219 Station Road, Suite 202 Wilmington, NC 28405 (910) 343-8600 Fax: (910) 343-8660 wilmingtonbiz.com PUBLISHER Rob Kaiser rkaiser@wilmingtonbiz.com PRESIDENT Robert Preville rpreville@wilmingtonbiz.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Judy Budd jbudd@wilmingtonbiz.com EDITOR Vicky Janowski vjanowski@wilmingtonbiz.com ASSISTANT EDITOR Cece Nunn cnunn@wilmingtonbiz.com REPORTERS Johanna Cano jcano@wilmingtonbiz.com Christina Haley O’Neal chaley@wilmingtonbiz.com SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Craig Snow csnow@wilmingtonbiz.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Ali Buckley abuckley@wilmingtonbiz.com OFFICE & AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Sandy Johnson KEN sjohnson@wilmingtonbiz.com

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From TOURISM, page 1

capacity.

LeAnn Pierce, mayor of Carolina Beach, amended the town’s state of emergency declaration to allow for additional seating areas for restaurant diners.

The proclamation temporarily eases current regulations and allows Carolina Beach restaurants the ability to use up to 25% of their parking area for outdoor customer dining.

The city of Wilmington is expected to consider an outdoor dining expansion for downtown restaurants, with the possibility of some street closures during busy times.

For businesses that provide lodging, including the area’s hotels and motels, the Friday before Memorial Day “was a little soft, but Saturday and Sunday they had a lot of walkins and last-minute reservations. … I think as a whole it was a good weekend for them,” said Kim Hufham, president and CEO of the New Hanover County Tourism Development Authority, which does business as the Wilmington and Beaches Convention and Visitors Bureau The more normal return to business for this time of year in the area did not come without hurdles, however, because limitations were still in place, including on pools and fitness centers, Hufham said. Another limitation for some hotels came from the city of Wilmington, which had only allowed 50% of a property’s total room capacity to be rented out to travelers. The restrictions were lifted May 29.

A MATTER OF TIME

While Memorial Day business helped the tourist industry, “essentially, we’ve lost a minimum of six to eight weeks … we’ve had eight to 10 weeks of pretty low occupancy” at hotels and motels in the area, Hufham said.

The CVB itself, which has a $3 million annual budget, is expected to be $1 million short in revenue because of the drop in room occupancy tax collections.

“That’s over a 30% loss. The best we can hope for is that we have a good summer and that we don’t start off the new year with that much of a shortfall,” Hufham said.

As of the end of May and beginning of June, it was too early to tell, Hufham said, with April’s ROT numbers not expected to be available until later in June.

“There’s still so many factors” that will come into play, said Connie Nelson, spokeswoman for the Wilmington and Beaches CVB.

PHOTO C/O JEANETTE NELSON

Relying on visitors: Jeanette Nelson, a Carolina Beach resident and Airbnb hostess, rents out part of her home and a beach cottage on her property.

David Bowles, owner of Dolphin Lane Motel in Carolina Beach, said his 45-room oceanfront property on Carolina Beach Avenue North was full Saturday night of Memorial Day weekend.

“The other nights were almost full,” Bowles said.

He said he feels more optimistic about the future now than he did when his hotel was empty in March.

“Anxiety mixed with optimism.

People are ready to get outside, and I think the beach is one of the safest places” because of the space and the sunshine, Bowles said.

But as of the end of May, business was steady.

“It’s not a normal summer of course,” Bowles said, “but who knows how things might go in July and August. It’s all up in the air.”

BOOKINGS SOAR

As the summer wears on, there may be some more bright spots for those who rely on tourism. According to a report May 27 by AirDNA, a website that aggregates data and tracks daily performance of shortterm rentals, vacation rental bookings were up 127% over the first week in February.

AirDNA’s data showed that Carolina Beach was No. 3 in the world of the markets seeing the fastest growth between the week of April 6, when there were 107 Airbnb and VRBO bookings (new reservations), and the week of May 18, when there were 1,178.

According to the report, “Markets rebounding the fastest are primarily leisure destinations in states pushing for a swift snap back to reality. Rentals near the beaches of Alabama, Georgia, Texas, and the Carolinas are the first to benefit from a travel-starved population.”

VISITOR CONFIDENCE

In thinking about the future, Bowles said he’s watching COVID-19 hospitalizations and death rates.

Consumers are watching indicators like that, too, along with other factors.

“The visitor confidence level is not there yet,” Hufham said in May. “The sentiment is still that they want to make sure that whatever destination they go to, whether it’s ours or somebody else’s, that they’re following the safety protocols.”

Visitors seem to be following CDC guidelines along the oceanfront in Carolina Beach on the weekends (including before Memorial Day), said Jeanette Nelson, a Carolina Beach resident and Airbnb hostess who rents out part of her home and a beach cottage on her property.

“I’ve noticed on Saturdays and Sundays it appears very crowded, but when you walk it [the beach], you see that the groups are definitely less than 10, and the groups are more than 6 feet apart,” she said. “People are respecting social distancing in where they park their chairs and umbrellas.”

Nelson, who has a doctorate from George Mason University in information technology and a master’s degree in finance and investment from George Washington University, pays close attention to her rental revenue numbers.

For the past five years, she’s seen good growth, she said, in those numbers, particularly from 2018 to 2019.

“Each year it has grown and last year, it grew by 60%,” she said. “This year it dropped [between January and May] by about 25%.”

Nelson, who luckily has savings she can use, added, “We’ve lost a lot of money because of the coronavirus, but people are coming back.”

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IN PROFILE

Entrepreneur pivots to offer PPE

BY DAVID FREDERIKSEN

E

ntrepreneurs are problem-solvers. But what happens when a viral pandemic hits?

If you’re Sean Hensler, one of the founders and CEO of Hensler Surgical Technologies LLC, you pivot.

“Realizing that so many health care teams were struggling with basic personal protective equipment (PPE) against coronavirus, I felt compelled to help in any way I could,” said Hensler, a certified physician assistant specializing in brain and spine surgery.

Hensler’s solution was to establish Hensler Surgical PPE Products, an additional product line and a shift from his usual core business developing and supplying highly specialized neurosurgery and orthopedic surgical devices.

The speed at which Hensler seized the day, as it were, seemed directly proportional to the accelerated rate in which the virus was spreading.

Time was of the essence, and “mobilizing such an effort” to create a new product offering would take logistics and manpower, he said.

“I called on all my [company] reps, and many more contacts I had worked with in the past,” said Hensler. “Their response to help in this huge undertaking was overwhelmingly positive.”

Despite an ongoing nationwide PPE shortage, Hensler said he and his team worked diligently with “vetted suppliers” in the United States to locate and purchase FDA-approved products and supplies, ranging from protective respiratory masks and COVID point-of-care testing kits to protective garments and high-frequency UV light disinfection systems.

Soon, Hensler PPE products were finding homes in health care facilities and organizations throughout the Port City and beyond.

But there was more to the problem.

“Once I started supplying health care workers, I was walking around town and observed how there was little to no focus on the protection of those outside of health care,” said Hensler. “What about them?”

Again, for Hensler, another shift from the usual. It was at that moment he decided to open up for sale his medical and surgical grade PPE

PHOTO BY MICHAEL CLINE SPENCER

Protective offering: Sean Hensler’s surgical devices firm is now also selling personal protective equipment (PPE).

to the general public.

“If it’s good enough for hospital workers and frontline teams, it’s good enough to be acquired by anyone,” said Hensler. “No one should have to use less than optimal equipment.”

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, there are four categories (Levels A-D) of PPE based on degree of protection.

Equipment ranges from work uniforms and full- or half-face masks to skin and eye protection and, ultimately, fully encapsulating chemical protective suits.

It was “ethics and a sense of duty” that moved Hensler to account for the general public, he said, a personal mission to “provide ... proper protection for anyone who seeks it.”

“Those outside health care have families and are still trying to work but need adequate protection, just like health care workers,” he said.

Providing protection isn’t something new to Hensler, having served from 1996 to 2001 in the Marine Corps as a hospital corpsman, including overseas deployments. After obtaining his physical therapy and master of medical science degrees,

Hensler began working in neurosurgery in 2005 with then-attending physician Thomas Melin, a Wilmington neurosurgeon.

Hensler and company co-founder Melin launched Hensler Surgical Technologies in 2011, debuting the patented Hensler Bone Press in 2012.

The surgical device maximizes the collection and separation of bone during certain surgeries.

In February 2011, Hensler attended a combination spine conference and ski trip in Aspen, Colorado. An old back injury from his military days “that showed its ugly head in 2010,” however, kept him from skiing. Hensler nonetheless found a slope, the upward slope to invention.

“I went to the local coffee shop and saw a French press [coffee press] and started thinking, could that work for separating bone and blood? It gave me something to do that week, and I took a shuttle into Aspen and found a computer in a gas station where I worked all week,” he said.

Hensler said that this same spirit of commitment, along with standards and practices developed over

almost a decade in business, applies to the newly minted Hensler PPE. “Customer service is a top priority, and we offer purchasing through our website,” said Hensler.

Out-of-market sales include Charlotte, Raleigh and even Michigan, said Hensler. One of his most impactful products, said Hensler, is the COVID POC Testing Kit, a 10-minute, rapid point-of-care test for detecting COVID-19 antibodies.

“It has been a massive tool in our arsenal to get Wilmington and beyond back to work and home safely,” said Hensler. “PPE and COVID testing were where I felt I could make the most impact.”

In addition, Hensler Surgical PPE has made “significant” donations of PPE to health care and non-health care workers alike “who were in desperate need,” he said.

As businesses enter the COVID-19 era, adapting to new marketplace demands will require an open mind, a humble heart and a watchful eye, said Hensler.

“Simply observe a need and help all the people you can,” he said.

“That’s the true bottom line.”

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Page 13

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Phase two: State takes ‘careful step’ STAFF REPORTS ov. Roy Cooper and N.C. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Mandy Cohen announced May 20 that North Carolina would move into Safer At Home, phase two of the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, at 5 p.m. May 22.

After two weeks in the first phase, the state’s overall key indicators had remained stable, Cooper and Cohen said. But the continued increases in daily case counts signaled a need to take a more modest step forward in phase two than originally envisioned, they said. That meant keeping some businesses closed, including entertainment venues, bars and gyms, which subsequently resulted in backlash and lawsuits.

“North Carolina is using the data to guide our decisions about when to lift COVID-19 restrictions, and overall our key indicators remain stable,” Cooper stated in a May 20 news release. “Safer At Home Phase 2 is another careful step forward, and we have to continue taking this virus se-

G

FILE PHOTO

Still shuttered: As of press time, gyms were required to stay closed during phase two of the state’s reopening plan.

riously to prevent a dangerous spike in infections.”

As of press time, phase two was expected to run through at least June 26.

Phase two lifts the Stay At Home order moving into a Safer At Home recommendation, according to the release, especially for people at high risk for serious illness. Teleworking is also urged when possible.

Other aspects of the second phase of reopening include: • Mass gathering limits in phase two will be no more than 10 people indoors or 25 people outdoors in most circumstances. These limits apply to the following: event venues; conference centers; stadiums and sports arenas; amphitheaters; and groups at parks or beaches.

• Some businesses will remain

closed in phase two including: bars; night clubs; gyms and indoor fitness facilities; indoor entertainment venues such as movie theaters and bowling alleys.

• Certain businesses will be open at limited capacity with other requirements and recommendations including: restaurants at 50% dine-in capacity with distancing and cleaning requirements; personal care businesses, including salons and barbers, at 50% capacity with distancing and cleaning requirements; pools at 50% capacity with distancing and cleaning requirements. Employees of personal care businesses will be required to wear face coverings.

• Child care facilities, day camps and overnight camps will be open with enhanced cleaning and screening requirements. Retail businesses allowed to open in phase one at 50% capacity will continue at that level.

• Public health recommendations are provided for worship services to practice enhanced social distancing and other cleaning and hygiene practices.

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Page 15

SPECIAL FOCUS: TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS

IN THE NEWS

Battleship reopens; other sites still waiting

BY CHRISTINA HALEY O’NEAL

N

ow, in phase two of the reopening of the state’s economy, some outdoor attractions and sites are open. Meanwhile, indoor entertainment venues and museums remain closed and continue to lose money.

The Battleship North Carolina’s outdoor facilities opened May 26 to visitors, while the interior of the ship is still closed, said Capt. Terry Bragg, executive director of the local attraction.

Like many attractions opening, the site has certain safety guidelines and restrictions, such as the number of visitors allowed in certain areas.

Tickets can be purchased on-site via credit card, and for visitors at this time, it is offering free tours with proof of a receipt inside the World War II era-ship at a later date when it can fully open, Bragg said.

For the Battleship North Carolina, 2020 was on track to become the most successful year in terms of revenue in its 60-year history as an attraction, Bragg said. That was

before the COVID-19 crisis and its impact on the area economy.

The Battleship North Carolina lost $600,000 in revenue and through expenses from having to close.

“Fortunately, the Battleship North Carolina is healthy financially so we were able to take this money out of our reserves and pay the bill.

And we can do this for a number of more months,” Bragg said.

The site typically gets about 300,000 visitors a year. So far this year, the site has had 53,000 while at the same time last year it had seen 71,000, he said.

“We consider ourselves a major economic driver for the entire community, not only in employment but bringing people here from afar: 60% of our visitation comes from greater than two hours away,” Bragg said.

“So I think that the battleship’s financial success is a leadership point in the community and businesses coming back.”

There could be opportunities for the battleship to recoup some of its losses, he said.

“As part of the CARES Act, in this latest round of funding that we’re hoping the federal government would approve – funds through the federal and state governments would be eligible to reimburse the battleship for losses,” Bragg said.

For the time being, the battleship has dramatically reduced its spending, Bragg said. It has 25 full-time employees on salary at this time and is looking to hire its part-time staff soon.

The N.C. Aquarium at Fort Fisher, however, is one of several places that still remain closed.

“COVID-19 has significantly impacted the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, just like it has for so many other businesses and organizations locally and nationally.

It is too early to say what the lasting impacts will be for the aquarium,” said Robin Nalepa, the aquarium’s communications manager. “We are also examining how we can best provide a safe and valuable experience to guests moving forward.”

Attractions are finding new ways

to generate revenue and engagement while their doors remain closed.

For instance, Wrightsville Beach Museum is putting together Father’s Day gift packages, and also did one for Mother’s Day. The Burgwin-Wright House & Gardens and the Bellamy Mansion Museum, are offering virtual programming through social media pages.

The Bellamy Mansion Museum has been closed to visitors since March 17, said Gareth Evans, executive director of the museum, which has been asking for support and donations.

Each month the museum is closed equates to more than $25,000 in lost admissions, gift shop purchases, special events and rentals.

“Looks like reopening might be late June as per the governor’s orders,” Evans said. “I also wonder about the knock-on effect for the rest of the year as tourism – particularly international – won’t be coming back any time soon.”

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HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS GUIDE

H U R R I C A N E P L A N N I N G AMID COVID-19 AS THE CAPE FEAR REGION

G RAD UAL LY R E O P E N S

FROM TH E COVI D-19 PAN DE M IC, OU R USUAL TH R EAT IS ON SCH E DU LE.

IT’S H U R R ICAN E SEASON.

BY MORGAN MATTOX

Our region knows all too well the damage and destruction hurricanes bring with them, which is why our community has become seasoned in the art of hurricane preparations and post-storm clean up efforts. However, this year we are working with a different set of circumstances. The COVID-19 pandemic has consumed much of our time and resources over the past few months, and while our community banded together to “flatten the curve,” that success has taxed our local and national resources.

Hurricane forecasters are predicting 13 to 19 named storms this season, with 3 to 6 becoming major storms – category 3, 4 or 5. And we know it only takes one landfalling storm to cause extensive devastation.

So, what can business owners do to prepare while simultaneously starting to re-open from the COVID-19 pandemic?

Preparations for hurricane season should not be forgotten. Business owners should develop evacuation and communication plans for employees and their customers. Remote working plans, which may already be in place due to COVID-19, are also an essential part of any company’s hurricane preparations. Businesses are also reminded to prepare their physical locations and keep inventory safe from possible damage.

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RESOURCES FOR YOUR BUSINESS

In an effort to increase awareness about the proper preparedness steps, Steven Still, Director of New Hanover County Emergency Management states, “Hurricane preparation should continue to be based on the three pillars of being #ReadyNHC: Make a Plan, Build a Kit, and Stay Informed.”

The county’s emergency management team has been working to provide assistance and resources to our community during the COVID-19 pandemic and while they still plan to keep the pandemic top-of-mind, hurricane preparations and awareness are a necessary component of focus. Business owners who need assistance with planning for emergencies like a hurricane can contact New Hanover County Emergency Management to schedule a consultation.

This is just one of the many resources that the emergency management team offers to business owners.

BUSINESS PARTNERSHIPS AID PREPARATION EFFORTS

Over the past few months, the COVID-19 pandemic has depleted many resource reserves, leaving many of us to wonder if

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our community will have enough resources and the proper plan in place to respond to possible storm damage. Many of the supplies needed for the COVID-19 pandemic overlap with the supplies needed for hurricane season. For instance, hand sanitizer and masks will still be needed during hurricane season as well as paper products and nonperishable food items.

Just as New Hanover County’s Emergency Management team works with other facets of local government to create the most comprehensive disaster plan, local businesses working together can make all the difference when mitigating risk. If the last few months have taught us anything about our local business community, it is that we do a wonderful job working together when the going gets tough. Supporting each other when our community is facing a real need is what our area businesses and non-profits have demonstrated, and this component is essential when preparing for pandemics or hurricanes.

potential hurricane, some businesses may see an increase in activity as the public starts to prepare for a possible weather event.

During these times, it is important to continue social distancing by offering curbside pick-up, delivery options, and limiting the number of customers in a facility. According to Still, “It’s also helpful to designate time for customers who are at higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19 – older adults and those with underlying health conditions.

Guidance on setting up space to provide services can be found in New Hanover County’s (Re)Open for Business document that shares guidance for organizations during the reopening process. The county’s emergency management operation encourages business owners to follow these suggestions even if a possible hurricane makes landfall.

CONTINUING TO SOCIAL DISTANCE

Because our economy depends so much on tourism, our area is home to lots of hotels.

While many hotels have been vacant for several weeks and are just starting to open at limited occupancy, how can hotel owners locally and statewide best prepare for a

As we work through the second phase of reopening, business owners are still encouraged to take the appropriate steps to ensure social distance. In the event of a

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Greater Wilmington Business Journal possible influx of hurricane evacuees all while keeping the COVID-19 pandemic in mind?

Natalie English, President and CEO of the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce, notes, “Hotels are already implementing protocols that incorporate the social distancing guidelines as they are gradually expanding their occupancy.” If hotels are needed for mandatory hurricane evacuations, Still suggests that hotels “…place plastic shields up at check-in desks, assign specific checkin times to limit the number of people in the lobby at once, switch continental breakfasts to brown bag “grab and go,” review cleaning protocol and make sure staff has the proper PPE to conduct cleaning and other business in a way that is consistent with CDC guidelines.”

Making these social distancing measures a priority can help prevent the spread of COVID-19 while making sure individuals have access to the services they need in case of a weather emergency.

SUPPLY CHAIN PRESSURES Considering the ongoing supply chain pressures from COVID-19, some may wonder if the county or emergency

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS GUIDE management are making plans to support the supply chain demands during hurricane preparation and response. While Hurricane Florence devastated our region, it also has helped us to become more efficient and effective in our preparations for future hurricanes.

“We work closely with the Chamber of Commerce and business partners who have established a Business EOC [Emergency Operations Center], that assists Emergency Management, as well as other businesses, in responding to emergencies. We have established contracts with several local businesses to ensure we have the proper supplies in place for hurricane response,” Still said.

These partnerships provide piece of mind for our business community when preparing for a possible natural disaster and demonstrate how working together can minimize risk and keep people safe.

BUSINESS CONTINUITY PLANS

Typically, larger businesses have Business Continuity Plans or Disaster Recovery Plans in place. It’s possible that some businesses are still in the process of creating one or maybe don’t have one at all. These plans provide a clear outline of steps a business

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needs to take in case of a disaster.

Resources for developing a plan for your business are readily available and some are offered at no cost. When discussing how businesses can find resources for plan development, English encourages business owners to utilize the US Chamber Foundation’s Resilience in a Box program to support disaster preparations. More information on this program can be found at: www.UsChamberFoundation.org/Resilience-Box. Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security provides plan resources at www.Ready.Gov/Business-Continuity-Plan. She also mentions that specialized consultants can help your business develop a plan for a fee.

New Hanover County Emergency Management provides offerings for business owners seeking to develop a plan as well.

Their team, as well as the New Hanover Disaster Coalition, are available to help advise business owners on the proper ways to develop their plans. Supporting the development of disaster plans for all business owners is but one of many ways our local emergency management team serves our community. To find out more about this offering and other resources that are provided, visit www.ReadyNHC.com.

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For some business owners creating a disaster plan can be overwhelming but with the copious resources available from government and non-profit organizations ─ creating a plan is simple. Find online resources to develop your plan today by visiting New Hanover County Government, N.C. Department of Commerce, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Small Business and Technology Development Center, and the Carolina Small Business Development Fund.

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Focusing on the development of an immediate-need emergency plan is vital but businesses also need to create plans that detail next steps for after the event. Think about how your business will get up and running after a disaster and make sure to clearly communicate the plan to employees.

SAFEGUARD BUSINESS RECORDS AND FILES Consider making it a habit to regularly back-up important electronic files, such as billing and payroll records, supplier lists, and customer databases. Make sure to make paper copies of vital documents and store them in a secure, safe place off-site.

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MAINTAIN INVENTORY OF ASSETS AND EQUIPMENT Document these important parts of your business in writing and with photographs. This information will need to be regularly updated and electronically backed-up in order to implement your recovery plan.

STORE MINIMAL INVENTORY ON SITE Each business will have a different need in this situation but the common suggestion is to store only three to five days worth of inventory on site. If this is set in place and the worst-case scenario does occur, only a small amount of inventory will perish.

COMMUNICATE CLEARLY WITH EMPLOYEES Establish which employees will be able to report to work after a disaster. Help your staff understand your business emergency plan and provide them resources to establish their own personal emergency plan. Providing guidance and time for your employees to develop their own family disaster plans ensure we all stay safe.

IDENTIFY EQUIPMENT VULNERABLE TO DAMAGE Take into consideration the location of large equipment that could become damaged. Is it near a window where high wind could break glass and create damage? Do you have things located near pipes or a hot water tank which could possible burst and create a water leak on or near the equipment? Take measures to move or raise equipment as needed in order to minimize damage.

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Greater Wilmington Business Journal

wilmingtonbiz.com

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

New Corporations lists firms that were recently incorporated in the state of North Carolina. All information is gathered from the North Carolina Secretary of State website. Addresses listed may not be the actual address of the business.

NEW CORPS May 15 - 27 2 LADIES AND A SCOOP PLUS MORE LLC 567 Cedar Ridge Rd Shallotte 28470 Agent: Okeiya Dinnall 201 GREENVILLE AVENUE TOWNHOMES OWNERS ASSOCIATION INC. 609-A Piner Road 116 Wilmington 28409 Agent: James Cerniglia 4R HOME SOLUTIONS LLC 5912 Wishing Well Ln Wilmington 28409 Agent: Erika Edith Rosales Rodriguez AARK OF NC LLC 205 Inlet Point Drive Wilmington 28409 Agent: William Stroud ACCELERATED AVIATION ACADEMY LLC 2100 Marsh Grove Lane Southport 28461 Agent: Kenneth E. Norris ADVENT BUILDING NC LLC 129 Great Oak Dr Hampstead 28443 Agent: David Copeland AIRLIE POINTE MARINE

PROPERTY HOLDINGS LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY 2009 Poplar Street Wilmington 28401 Agent: Tyler Barrack AIRLIE POINTE YACHT CHARTERS LLC 2009 Poplar St Wilmington 28401 Agent: Tyler Barrack ALIGN MOBILE VETERINARY CHIROPRACTIC PLLC 1101 Hampton Pine Court Leland 28451 Agent: Leslie Jarrett ARC INCENTIVE HOLDINGS LLC 319 N 3rd St Ste 301 Wilmington 28401-4251 Agent: Eshelman Ventures LLC BARRANTES PAINTING AND CLEANING LLC 4511 Staffordshire Dr. Apt 8 Wilmington 28412 Agent: Fidelia Estela Diaz BAY ELECTRIC INC. 50 Northwood Dr Wilmington 28405 Agent: Jana Rosenlund BECKET LLC 6628 Pleasant Pine Ct Wilmington 28403 Agent: David Decker

BELLA VIDA SALON LLC 10614 Beach Drive SW Unit 2 Calabash 28467 Agent: Patricia Mizell BEVERAGE REALTY LLC 2510 Wrightsville Ave Wilmington 28403-2412 Agent: Tyler Beverage BIG MONKEY PRODUCTIONS INC. 344 Shipyard Blvd Wilmington 28412 Agent: Anthony S Nobilio BOAT LIFT SERVICES INC 101 North Atlantic Ave. Southport 28461 Agent: Kara McPherson BODIEDBYSHYDEE LLC 1007 Egret Nest Cir Unit 202 Winnabow 28479 Agent: Tyshyree Nichelle Williams BRADLEY CREEK STATION CONDOMINIUM OWNERS ASSOCIATION INC. 10 S Cardinal Drive Wilmington 28403 Agent: Robert J Hollis BROOKLYN SALVAGE CO. LLC 1013 N 4th St Wilmington 28401 Agent: David A. Nathans BRUNSWICK COUNTY VOLUNTARY ORGANIZATIONS ACTIVE IN DISASTER 1041 Old Ocean Hwy Bolivia 28422 Agent: Jeff Gibby CAMP DAVIS BOAT RV & TOY STORAGE LLC 436 McClammy Rd. Hampstead 28443 Agent: Bethany Guthrie CAMPBELL & RUPARD CONSTRUCTION LLC 4623 Crosscurrent Place Wilmington 28409 Agent: Ray Campbell CAROLINA MARINE TERMINAL LLC 3330 River Road Wilmington 28412 Agent: Michael E. McCarley

CI-NRI INVESTORS LLC 1201 Glen Meade Road Wilmington 28401 Agent: Hill Rogers

298 Rogersville Road Wilmington 28403 Agent: Jeffrey Tyler Colagerakis

CJ BROOKS CONSULTING INC 835 Corn Planters Cir Carolina Shores 28467 Agent: Carolyn J Brooks

DURANS PAINTING PLUS LLC 120 Parsley Ln Apt 204 Leland 28451-9369 Agent: Carlos Duran

CLB ENTERPRISES OF WILMINGTON LLC 2813 Bloomfield Lane #104 Wilmington 28412 Agent: Chris Ballangee

DYE BUILDERS LLC 55 Sailview Ct Hampstead 28443 Agent: Spencer Dye

CLP SURF CITY LLC 629 Creek Drive Hampstead 28443 Agent: Callie L. Paul

E. AMOS CONSTRUCTION LLC 219 South Kerr Avenue Wilmington 28403 Agent: Elma De Paz Lorenzo

CMB CONSTRUCTION LLC 414 Bradford Road Wilmington 28409 Agent: Leonarda Salgado Ortega

EAG VENTURES LLC 3905 Independence Blvd Suite B Wilmington 28412 Agent: Erica Grosseibl

CMLA SERVICES LLC 321 Hooker Rd #50 Wilmington 28403 Agent: Quentin P. Kimble

FINCH AND FERN FLOWER FARM LLC 6275 Sawdust Ln SE Winnabow 28479 Agent: Liliana Byrd

CMT REAL PROPERTY LLC 3330 River Road Wilmington 28412 Agent: Michael E. McCarley

FULL SEND RACING LLC 406 Bellflower Court Wilmington 28412 Agent: Chadwick Towne

COMMUNITY PARTNERS GOLF LLC 1621 Lakeview Ct SW Ocean Isle Beach 28469 Agent: J. Kenneth McGill

GOOSE BAY HOLDINGS LLC 1413 Heron Run Dr Wilmington 28403 Agent: William Batuyios

DAWN’S LAWN & LANDSCAPES LLC 4434 Flagship Ave S.E. #2 Southport 28461 Agent: Dawn Austin-jones

HANDYCARE MAINTENANCE INC. 4939 Summerswell Lane Southport 28461 Agent: Michele Moratelli

DIAMOND PEST PRO WILMINGTON LLC 1415-2 Canal Dr Carolina Beach 28428 Agent: McKay Morrison DIVINE FAITH & RESTORATION CHURCH INTERNATIONAL INC. 470 W. Huckleberry Way Rocky Point 28457 Agent: John D. Stevenson Jr. DRAKIS LOGISTICS LLC

HEALTHY HOUNDS LLC 211 Estuary Ct Winnabow 28479 Agent: Lara Bair HIGH TIDE CONSTRUCTION LLC 206 Old Whitfield Rd Hampstead 28443 Agent: Shawn Rich HIGHLANDS AT BOILING SPRING LAKES HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION INC. 1908 Eastwood Rd

#321 Wilmington 28403 Agent: Gary Owens HINESIGHT INVESTIGATIONS L.L.C. 5428 Eagles Nest Dr. Wilmington 28409 Agent: Michael Hines HOMETOWN HELPER L.L.C 1513 Corey Ln Wilmington 28411 Agent: Eric W Thompson HOMEY HOME CLEANING SERVICES L.L.C. 2300 Wildberry Court Wilmington 28411 Agent: Gisela C. Mejia I AM MELT LLC 310 N Front Street Suite 4-217 Wilmington 28401 Agent: Elvisa Thompson ILM PROPERTY LLC 4620 Cedar Ave Ste 118 Wilmington 28403 Agent: Kevin Smith INTERNATIONAL STYLEZ LLC 186 Bellhammon Forest Drive Rocky Point 28457 Agent: Luis M Martinez JEFFREY B WHITING LLC 7127 Orchard Trce Wilmington 28409 Agent: Jeffrey B Whiting KECK AGENCY LLC 129 N. 3rd Ave Kure Beach 28449 Agent: Colleen Keck KINDERSTOP ON-SITE SERVICES LLC 6028 Shore Park Drive Leland 28451 Agent: Stephen Long LDF ENTERPRISES LLC 1095 South Fisher King Drive SE Bolivia 28422 Agent: Lance D Flint LEGENDS SEAFOOD AND PRODUCE LLC 1501 Hwy-53 West Burgaw 28425 Agent: Clarence David Furch

LIBERTY MANAGEMENT OF MATTHEWS LLC 2334 S. 41st Street Wilmington 28403 Agent: Yoel H Balter LIBERTY SENIOR LIVING PROPERTIES OF MATTHEWS LLC 2334 S. 41st Street Wilmington 28403 Agent: Yoel H Balter LLIBERTY DEVELOPMENT OF MATTHEWS LLC 2334 S. 41st Street Wilmington 28403 Agent: Yoel H Balter LOBLOLLY LANDING HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION INC. 265 Racine Dr Ste 104 Wilmington 28403 Agent: J C Hearne II MCGHEE PROPERTIES LLC 4574 Regency Crossing Southport 28461 Agent: Donald J McGhee MFW GOODS L.L.C. 633 Governors Rd SE Winnabow 28479 Agent: Millie Holloman MINK WINKS LLC 1018 South Sixth Street Wilmington 28401 Agent: Alice Williams NORTH CAROLINA ASSOCIATION OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS RESPONDERS 3701 Nymue Pt. Unit 102 Wilmington 28403 Agent: John Herbert Stephenson OCEANSIDE REAL ESTATE BROKERS LLC 1005 Summer Woods Dr Wilmington 28412 Agent: Kimberly Fortiano OIB KAHUNA LLC 1755 Sandalwood Dr SW Ocean Isle Beach 28469 Agent: Andrew Spaugh OIKOS WAY LLC 1001 N. Lake Park Blvd Carolina Beach 28428 Agent: Carissa Palmer

OUTPOST COFFEE CO LLC 1305 Nun Street Wilmington 28401 Agent: Kourtnie Souders PATRICIA LEITCH DESIGN L.L.C. 1015 Nutt St. #234 Wilmington 28401 Agent: Patricia Leitch PRO GUN MFG INC 4557 Technology Dr Ste 5 Wilmington 28405 Agent: Charles Lewis III RANDALL DAIL REALTY LLC 600 River Ridge Dr Shallotte 28470 Agent: Randall Oliver Dail Sr RED CARDINAL REALTY OF NORTH CAROLINA LLC 101 SE 38th St. Oak Island 28465 Agent: Sheila H. Reid RIGHT SERVICES CORPORATION 250 Pinnacle Pkwy Hampstead 28443 Agent: Robert K Wright ROMEISBURNING LLC 110 Bermuda Dr Wilmington 28401 Agent: Claude Z. Rome RTART PROPERTIES LLC 1625 East Pelican Drive Oak Island 28465 Agent: Ricky D Tart RUSARIO RENTALS L.L.C. 126 Treasure Island Way Wilmington 28411 Agent: Robert Russo SAVLO HOLDINGS LLC 716 Darwin Drive Wilmington 28405 Agent: Kevin Geer SCHNOGGERSBURG SERVICES LLC 16 Nun Street Wilmington 27411 Agent: Neal Alan Schnog SEACORE Management LLC 1717 Shipyard Boulevard Suite 140 Wilmington 28403 Agent: R Dax Hawkins

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June 5- 18, 2020

Page 25

| THE LIST |

Staffing Agencies

Ranked by number of in-house local employees AGENCY ADDRESS RANK PHONE

1 2 3 3 5 5 7 8 8 10

StepUp Wilmington 20 N. Fourth St., Suite 430 Wilmington, NC 28401 343-8469 Greene Resources Inc. 5036 New Centre Drive Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 251-0505 Hawthorne Search 123 Cardinal Drive Suite 100 Wilmington, NC 28405 777-5383 Hire Scene Inc. 2517 Delaney Ave. Wilmington, NC 28403 799-0103 Express Employment Professionals 4620 Cedar Ave., Suite 119 Wilmington, NC 28403 392-2300 On Target Staffing 2804 S. College Road, Suite 101 Wilmington, NC 28412 765-0949 Target Solutions 1904 Eastwood Road, Suite 209 Wilmington, NC 28403 509-1800 Babb Mcgrew LLC 2618 Columbia Ave. Wilmington, NC 28403 791-8570 Prestige Scientific Inc. 219 Station Road Wilmington, NC 28403 (866) 900-7372 Premier Staffing Solutions Inc. 6105 Oleander Drive, Ste 101 Wilmington, NC 28403 793-1010

EMAIL WEBSITE

NO. OF LOCAL IN-HOUSE EMPLOYEES

SPECIALTIES, SERVICES OFFERED

TOP LOCAL OFFICIAL

YEAR LOCALLY FOUNDED

bennett@stepupwilmington.org www.stepupwilmington.org

13

Staffing, job training, job placement

Will Rikard Executive Director

2003

lindsay@greeneresources.com www.greeneresources.com

11

Contract and direct hire placements, on-site management, vendor management and recruiting consultation on professional, administrative, technical, engineering, call center, production and clean room environments

Lindsay Smith Branch Manager/ Director of Business Development

1998

info@hawthornesearch.com www.hawthornesearch.com

8

Professional recruitment, with strong focus on sales, marketing, management

Robert Hawthorne President

2006

info@hirescene.com www.hirescene.com

8

Contract staffing, temporary staffing, direct placement, online staffing, on-site staffing, RPO services, and employees on-demand APP – medical, manufacturing, administrative, warehouse, distribution, hospitality

Mike Youngblood CEO

1992

Wendy.mayo@expresspros.com www.expresspros.com

7

Accounting, administrative, medical, professional, manufacturing, labor and more

Wendy Mayo Owner

2000

wilmington@ontargetstaffingllc.com www.ontargetstaffingllc.com

7

Clerical, light industrial, landscaping, assembly/production, hospitality

Beth Wilson Southeastern Regional Manager

2017

targetresume@targetsol.com www.targetsol.com

6

Recruiting top sales talent for the software industry

Tom Ryder President

1998

info@babbmcgrew.com www.babbmcgrew.com

5

Life sciences - pharmaceutical/biotech contract lab-manufacturing,clinical development, business development, finance, research and development, engineering

Richard Babb President

2011

sprovost@prestigescientific.com www.prestigescientific.com

5

Pharmaceutical and biotechnology

Stephen Provost Managing Partner

2015

poleary@premierstaffnc.com www.premierstaffnc.com

4

Employees

Peggy O'Leary President

1999

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

Page 26

June 5 - 18, 2020

Greater Wilmington Business Journal

wilmingtonbiz.com

| THE LIST |

Engineering Firms

Ranked by number of local professional engineers RANK

1

FIRM ADDRESS McKim & Creed Inc. 243 N. Front St. Wilmington, NC 28401

PHONE WEBSITE

NO. LOCAL PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS/ NO. ENGINEERS

STAFF

SPECIALTIES

NOTABLE PROJECTS

TOP OFFICIAL/ YEAR FOUNDED

343-1048 www.mckimcreed.com

10 102

70

Engineering, surveying, planning

City of Wilmington Downtown Waterfront Park, CFPUA Southside WWTP Chlorine Gas to Ultraviolet Light Disinfection Conversion, Indy West Apartments, Calabash Station, UNCW Central Parking Deck

John Lucey CEO 1978

Hampton Inn and Suites Sneads Ferry, Flying Machine Brewing, Town Creek Elementary School addition and new middle school, Brunswick Water, civil, public works, disaster County Courthouse addition, CFPTA Wilmington Multimodal management, structural, surveying, aquatics, Transportation Center, city of Wilmington-coastline riverfront environmental, coastal, marine stabilization and Riverwalk renovation, The Bluffs on the Cape Fearmarina and boat launch/waterfront amenities, State Employees’ Credit Union-N. College Road and Leland branches Carroll at The Avenue, The Pointe at Barclay, Midtown Park at Barclay, Land surveying, civil engineering, landscape Woodlands Landing at Echo Farms, Whiskey Branch, Salisbury Street architecture, land planning Streetscape, Riverbend Mixed Use, Pine Forest Plantation, Shallotte Riverwalk Environmental, civil & geotechnical Hampstead Bypass Geotechnical Investigation & Engineering; Infantry engineering and consulting, brownfields, Immersion Trainer Facility MCB Camp Lejeune; Lumberton Flooding drilling, soil lab testing, soil/groundwater Hydraulic Study & Design; NCDOT Greenville 10th Street Connector; assessment & remediation, civil site design, City of Wilmington Fire Stations 3 & 5; NHC Fire Station 16; NCSPA vibracore sediment sampling Stormwater Monitoring

David E. Criser Practice Director–Structural Services 1950

2

Ardurra Group North Carolina* 3809 Peachtree Ave., Suite 102 Wilmington, NC 28403

2

Paramounte Engineering Inc. 122 Cinema Drive Wilmington, NC 28403

4

CATLIN Engineers and Scientists 220 Old Dairy Road Wilmington, NC 28405

452-5861 www.CatlinUSA.com

7 10

33

5

W.K. Dickson & Co. Inc. 300 N. Third St., Suite 301 Wilmington, NC 28401

762-4200 www.wkdickson.com

6 55

12

Water, wastewater, stormwater, site/civil engineering, landscape architecture, streetscapes, and airports

Rick Catlin, PG, PE Jason Catlin, PE Founder & President CEO 1985 Scott Sigmon CFPUA potable water production wells rehabilitation, Elizabethtown & Regional asset inventory and assessment, Caswell Beach dune infiltration, Water Vice President Manager Street streetscape 1929

5

Woods Engineering PA 254 N. Front St., Suite 201 Wilmington, NC 28401

343-8007 www.woodseng.com

6 6

12

Structural engineering services; structural design using structural steel, cold formed steel, reinforced concrete, post-tensioned concrete, masonry and wood

Corning Credit Union – 17th Street, Independence Mall Additions & Renovations, Embassy Suites - Riverfront; Flats on Front Apartments; Liberty Healthcare-Brightmore at Cary; NHRMC parking deck and pedestrian bridge

Don R. Woods, Principal/ Owner Adam Sisk, Principal 1999

7

Cheatham and Associates P.A. 3412 Enterprise Drive Wilmington, NC 28405

452-4210 Cheathampa.com

5 7

14

Consulting for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection and fire alarm engineering

Surf City K-8 School, Porters Neck Elementary School, College Park Elementary School, CFCC – Union Station Building, The Wilson Center, Wilmington Police HQ, Wilmington Fire Department HQ, Wilmington Airport Expansion

Kenneth Lynch President 1981

8

David Sims & Associates Consulting Engineers P.C. 108 Giles Ave., Suite 100 Wilmington, NC 28403

791-8016 www.dsaeng.com

4 6

10

397-2929 www.cttengineering.com

8 10

13

791-6707 www.paramounte-eng.com

8 11

35

Bradley Creek Station, South Front Apartments, Wilmington Health, Energy studies, HVAC, electrical, plumbing Duke Marine Lab, Nunnelee Pediatric at Autumn Hall, Edward Teach and industrial engineering Brewery, PruittHealth Assisted Living, Lowes Foods

List is based on voluntary responses to a Business Journal survey. *Formerly known as Criser Troutman Tanner Consulting Engineers

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June 5- 18, 2020

PRESENTING SPONSORS:

(FROM A SAFE DISTANCE)

THE DECISION

BARB BIEHNER

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CO-CHAIR PARTNERSHIP ADVISORY GROUP

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COUNTY MANAGER NEW HANOVER COUNTY

PRESIDENT & CEO NEW HANOVER REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

New Hanover County has received proposals from six health care organizations to purchase or partner with NHRMC, and some of the numbers are eye-popping. One proposal includes up to $2 billion for New Hanover County and $3.1 billion for capital investments.

On June 18, the four people at the center of evaluating and recommending how we move forward will share their views on the proposals, the most important factors in making this decision and how the process moves forward from here.

WHEN: Thursday, June 18 WHERE: This Power Breakfast will be virtual due to restrictions on large events.

COST: The Event will be broadcast for free online because of the importance of the topic. Details on how to view the live event will be announced at least a week before the event. Please register at WilmingtonPowerBreakfast.com to ensure you receive details.

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June 5 - 18, 2020

Greater Wilmington Business Journal

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|REAL ESTATE|

Major projects move forward

BY CECE NUNN hroughout the coronavirus pandemic, work has continued on many major projects in the Wilmington area, from construction to planning phases.

The following are updates on some of the largest developments:

Operations/911 Center, and then the county would pay the developer approximately $4.5 million annually over 20 years,” according to a county news release. “At the end of those 20 years, the county would own the building without any debt.

In addition, the developer would invest at least $70 million in the phased, private development, which will generate annual county and city tax revenue of more than $730,000 initially with continued growth over time.”

T

GOVERNMENT CENTER REDEVELOPMENT

Address: 230 Government Center Drive Details: The potential New Hanover County Government Center redevelopment project would include a new facility for county offices, as well as commercial and residential uses, with affordable housing and green space.

Update: The county Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the development agreement June 15. Under the proposed development agreement, the county would still own the land where a new government center would be

INDEPENDENCE MALL TRANSFORMATION RENDERING C/O NEW HANOVER COUNTY

Counting on change: A rendering shows what the potential new New Hanover County Government Complex could look like.

built and then sell the other half of the property (about 7.5 acres of the total 15 acres) to the developer, Cape Fear FD Stonewater LLC, for about $5 million to build a mixed-

use residential and commercial development.

“The developer would finance, construct, and furnish the county’s Government Center and Emergency

Address: 3500 Oleander Drive Details: A major redevelopment of the 1970s mall by owner Brookfield Properties has been in the works for the past few years, with changes expected outside and in the more than 1 million-square-foot center.

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REAL ESTATE to the mall as part of the transformation. New tenants also include a Lidl grocery store; Blaze Pizza, a pizza eatery with a location in Renaissance Market shopping center; First Watch, a Florida-based restaurant chain that is also coming to Mayfaire Town Center; Jersey Mike’s Subs, a New Jersey-based sandwich shop; and Five Below, a Philadelphia-based value retailer geared toward teens.

Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar, a restaurant co-owned by NFL quarterback Drew Bree, is also set to open in an 8,800-square-foot building over an existing parking lot near the mall at 3710 Oleander Drive.

Update: Helen Lewis, general manager of Independence Mall, said interior renovations are expected to be finished around mid-Setpember, while the new exterior-facing portion and outside buildings, including restaurant space, could be done by the holiday.

RIVER PLACE

Address: On Grace and Water streets in downtown Wilmington.

Details: A 13-story project estimated at more than $80 million, River Place is a public-private part-

nership between East West Partners and the city of Wilmington that replaced the defunct Water Street parking deck.

Update: The apartment component of the project, which includes condos and retail space, is expected to be finished in June. The apartment section is called The Overlook at River Place. Units range in size from 553 to 1,284 square feet, and rents start at $1,161 a month.

AUTUMN HALL PHASE TWO

Address: 1200 block of Eastwood Road Details: The next phase of Autumn Hall, a master planned community on Eastwood Road, is expected to include high-end retail, a 150-room hotel, conference center, restaurants, offices and apartments.

Update: The project is progressing, including plans for a bank and offices. The developers have not yet announced which bank is expected to occupy space in a two-story, 27,500-square-foot building at 1202 Eastwood Road. Developers of the project include Cape Fear Commercial and Trask Land Co. Mike Brown with Cape Fear Commercial is running point on the project for

the team, said Brian Eckel of Cape Fear Commercial.

Thomas Construction Group is working on the first buildings at the intersection of Autumn Hall Drive and Eastwood Road. The buildings are a total of 45,382 square feet of mixed-use space that are 77% preleased and will deliver Q4 2020, Eckel said earlier this year.

NORTH WATERFRONT PARK

Address: 10 Cowan St. Details: The nearly $30 million park on 6.6 acres along the northern Cape Fear River riverfront in downtown Wilmington is expected to include a large concert venue and festival space, a playground, a splash pad, trails and more amenities.

Update: Dylan Lee, city of Wilmington spokesman, said, “Construction is on track, and the park is still slated to open in spring of 2021.”

NORTHERN GATEWAY PROJECT Address: 1020, 908 and 922 N. Front St. and 901 N. Third St. Details: East West Partners proposed a development that could bring residential units, retail space, a hotel, a visitors center and parking to several city-owned properties.

Update: The $90 million project is on hold for now because of the coronavirus.

CENTERPOINT

Address: 1531 Eastwood Road Details: In 2017, Swain & Associates developers announced plans for CenterPoint, a major mixed-use development on Eastwood and Military Cutoff roads in Wilmington that would include a hotel, an office building with a parking deck, apartments with a parking deck, restaurants and stores on about 23 acres.

At the time, the cost was estimated to be $250 million.

Update: Swain & Associates is awaiting a Wilmington City Council decision on a change to the plans that would add 20 rooms to the hotel at CenterPoint for a total of 220, and 70 units, for a total of 370, to an apartment complex in the development. It has not yet been scheduled for consideration by the council.

“I don’t think we’re in any rush,” said Jason Swain, developer with Swain & Associates, at the end of May. “We’re waiting patiently for the next step.”

Page 30

June 5 - 18, 2020

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RESTAURANT ROUNDUP

BUSINESS OF LIFE

This is a sampling of stories from the Business Journal’s weekly Restaurant Roundup email.

Subscribe at wilmingtonbiz.com.

Editor’s Note: Because of potential changes in restrictions put in place as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, some of the information below might have changed after press time

Some eateries choose to stick with carry-out While restaurants were granted in May the ability to open for dine-in service at 50% capacity, some restaurant owners have chosen to stay with a carry-out only model for now.

Danny McPherson, one of the owners of Brunches at Mayfaire Community Center and King Neptune Restaurant in Wrightsville Beach, told the GWBJ earlier this month that he did not plan on opening any of his three locations for dine-in service right away.

“Everyone will make their own decisions based on what’s allowed,” Danny McPherson said. “When we really feel like we can look at our team and say, ‘Yes, it’s now safe for people to come in and dine,’ that will be when we are ready.”

McPherson posted the following to the Brunches Facebook page: “From the beginning of this pandemic, we have made a commitment to our employees that their health and safety would be our top priority.

“At first, this included closing the restaurant for a period of time to come up with adequate systems and processes to accommodate take-out and delivery services. It now includes delaying the opening of our dining room and outdoor areas until we are confident that we have the best systems and processes in place …”

Hugo Herrera, manager of Brooklyn Pizza Co. in Ogden, said that because of the high volume of takeout the pizzeria does, staying with a carry-out and delivery-only model makes the most sense.

“We have a very small dining area and it would be very difficult for us to maintain social distancing,” Herrera said.

The Donut Inn holds event to celebrate 2nd location The Donut Inn held the grand opening June 1 of its second location, in the Harris Teeter-anchored shopping center at the corner of Porters Neck Road and Market Street.

Owners Allen Renquist and Matt Anlyan said that after three years of serving locally roasted coffee, bagels, breakfast sandwiches and handmade donuts at the Military Cutoff location, they are excited to bring The Donut Inn’s offerings to a new neighborhood.

Renquist and Anlyan said they selected Porters Neck because of the area’s rapid growth and customer feedback.

Donut Inn now offers online ordering and orders can be picked up curbside for those who choose not to enter the buildings.

The Porters Neck Donut Inn is at 208 Porters Neck Road and expected to be open from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. seven days a week.

Burney’s Sweets & More on the way to Mayfaire Burney’s Sweets & More is coming to Mayfaire Community Center, filling the former Duck Donuts spot, a Mayfaire spokeswoman confirmed this week.

The bakery, founded in Elizabethtown in 2011 by Thomas and Doris Burney, is now owned by Michael and Gina Burney, who still operate the Elizabethtown location.

Since its founding, nearly a dozen locations, including in Hampstead in Pender County and Southport in Brunswick County, have opened across the state as the family-run business has franchised.

Catharine Wells, senior director of marketing operations for CBL Properties, which manages Mayfaire Community Center and owns Mayfaire Town Center, confirmed that Burney’s leased the No. 100 space at 6801 Parker Farm Drive.

The Wilmington franchisee said he didn’t want to be named for the time being but shared some information about the upcoming Burney’s.

While some Burney’s locations serve sweets as well as breakfast and lunch items, the Mayfaire location will serve only baked goods such as breakfast pastries, cookies, cupcakes, pies, chocolate-covered strawberries and signature items such as Burney’s 15-layer cake and stuffed croissants.

Construction is underway to change the layout of the space and allow for the installation of additional kitchen equipment.

There will be cafe seating, and beverages such as coffee and soft drinks will be served.

A late summer opening is expected.

-Jessica Maurer

Greater Wilmington Business Journal

wilmingtonbiz.com

June 5- 18, 2020

Page 31

| BUSINESS OF LIFE | A new twist on rosé wine

BY JESSICA MAURER griculture, clean water and wine are three things that local entrepreneurs Amy and Rob Kuchar are passionate about.

Rob hails from a rural farming community on the outskirts of Flint, Michigan, while Amy grew up in downtown Flint, a city known lately mostly for its water quality issues.

The Kuchars started a small Charlotte-based wine distribution company in 2006, and over the next decade, their business evolved into two main companies: Executive Bev, a global wine supplier, and Boutique Bev, a boutique beverage company that specializes in designing brand concepts, brand incubation and helping small, family-owned wineries around the world increase their distribution.

Rob Kuchar explained that while many of these small, family-owned wineries want to expand their distribution, they also want to keep their focus on the winemaking and not have to deal with the business side of things.

“They are experts at cultivating grapes for wine, and that’s where their passion lies,” he said. “They want to stay in the vineyards. They don’t want to be on sales calls or developing marketing plans.”

Rob Kuchar said that’s where he comes in. Being from a farm town himself, he envisioned becoming an ambassador for small farmers growing grapes for wine.

“The wine industry is very much an agricultural industry,” he said.

Over the past several years the Kuchars have created a portfolio of about 35 wines and have developed close relationships with winemakers across the globe. Their most recent product to hit the market is Rosé Water, a wine-water water hybrid.

A couple of years ago, the Kuchars started brainstorming ideas for a light, refreshing wine-based beverage that was free of additives.

“Amy and I are definitely wine people, but unfortunately wine isn’t really an on-the-go beverage,” Rob Kuchar said. “And Amy really wanted a lower-alcohol beverage that she could drink at the pool or on the boat.”

He said that like Amy, many consumers have become more health conscious over the past decade. The alcoholic beverage industry has responded to this trend with lower alcohol beverages such as ultra-light

A

RESTAURANT ROUN DUP

PHOTO BY MICHAEL CLINE SPENCER

Building a beverage: Amy and Rob Kuchar, creators of Rosé Water, plan to roll out additional varietals and blends over the next two-three years.

beers and hard seltzers.

“We began experimenting with blending rosé and water at home,” Rob Kuchar said. “We had some pretty good success with it and felt like we might be on to something.”

So the Kuchars reached out to two French wineries and asked if they would be interested in getting involved.

“Initially they thought I was a lunatic,” Rob Kuchar said. “But the more we talked, the more they understood that we weren’t talking about diluting their wine, we were talking about blending it with water.”

The Kuchars and their winemaking partners spent nearly two years experimenting with grape blends and a variety of waters before arriving at the blend of French pinot noir, gamay and cabernet franc grapes produced in the heart of the Loire Valley that are blended with sparkling water sourced from the Austrian Alps.

“This is a very handcrafted product,” Rob Kuchar said. “It’s quite a bit more difficult than it seems. Wine drinkers like balance and a consistent profile, and that is what we set out to achieve.”

Because the Kuchars are clean water activists, selecting the purest possible water was also a top priority. Once the grapes are blended, they travel seven hours from France to the Austrian Alps, where the wine is blended, canned and shipped to Wilmington for distribution.

The hybrid is 69 calories per serving, 4.9% alcohol by volume (ABV) and contains no added sugar, flavorings or preservatives.

The Kuchars anticipate wine-water hybrids to be a new category of beverages.

Lighthouse Beer and Wine of Wrightsville Beach was the first retailer in the country to carry the product, selling 55 cases the first week. The product’s first restaurant partner was 1900 Restaurant and Lounge in Lumina Station. The Kuchars said several area breweries are now carrying the product as well.

Rosé Water is sold in six packs of 8.5-ounce cans ($12.99-$16.99) as well as individual cans ($2.99+) at select retailers in more than 15 states across the U.S., including North Carolina, Maryland, Massachusetts, South Carolina, California and Illinois.

Locally it can be found at Harris Teeter, Lowes Foods, Whole Foods and independent bottle shops such as Palate, The Brewer’s Kettle and Fermental. Plans call for the wine-water hybrid to be in more than 60 markets across 48 states by the end of 2020.

In keeping with their commitment to clean water initiatives, the Kuchars plan to donate 5% of all Rosé Water sales to Cape Fear River Watch, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to the improvement and preservation of the health, beauty, cleanliness and heritage of the Cape Fear River basin.

“The wine industry has attempted to figure out many ways over the years to defend and grow their market share in the adult beverage category but ended up creating products that were inexpensive and artificially flavored, so they were quickly outdone – for example, wine coolers in the ’90s and now spiked seltzers,” Rob Kuchar said. “Bottom line, the scale at which the larger industry operates opened the door for the introduction of something truly unique, and we couldn’t be more excited by the response we’ve received to Rosé Water.”

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