Greater Fayetteville Business Journal - June 5, 2026 issue
PHOTO PROVIDED BY CRYSTAL MCLEAN
Crystal McLean (left) with Scott Embry (right). Money Box Academy received
$10,000 grant from United Way of Cumberland County’s Youth Growth Stock Trust.
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By Emily Ruth Perry
Unlocking innovations
EMERGING TECHNOLOGY INSTITUTE HOSTS USSOCOM TECHNICAL EXPERIMENTATION
Emerging Technology Institute (ETI), a private tech company with a 165,000-square-foot facility, will be hosting the US Special Operations Command’s (USSOCOM) Technical Experimentation event 26-4 from Sept. 14-18, 2026. This five-day event is an opportunity for tech companies from around the world to meet with, pitch and get feedback from the soldiers who could potentially be using their technology.
Founder and President of ETI James Freeman said, “The purpose of the event is for businesses both large and small to demonstrate their emerging technologies that are relevant to the event’s theme. If selected, they will be paired with a USSOCOM element, which will work with that company to get feedback on their technology… this is the beta test…this is an opportunity to ask real soldiers what is helpful for them.”
This is the fourth year that ETI has hosted the event, and in years past Freeman has seen a host of innovative technology including various drone types and programming, robotic dogs, 3D printed houses and airspace scanners. This year’s theme is Signature Management and Defeat, which has to do with the process of identifying and modifying the electromagnetic signature of military assets to reduce detection, as well as more efficiently detecting enemy signatures.
The Request for Information
... We’ve made some great partnerships and working relationships. That’s what this is all about.”
— James Freeman, Founder & President of ETI
Left: This is the fourth year that ETI has hosted the event, and in years past Freeman has seen a host of innovative technology including various drone types and programming, robotic dogs, 3D printed houses, and airspace scanners.
Right: Emerging Technology Institute (ETI), a private tech company with a 165,000-square-foot facility, will be hosting the US Special Operations Command’s (USSOCOM) Technical Experimentation event 26-4 from Sept. 14-18, 2026.
(RFI) posted on sam.gov says the event “...will be a best-of-breed challenge for developers to demonstrate their capability to USSOCOM in an operationally focused vignette. Technologies that support signature management will be pitted against technologies designed to defeat signature management capabilities.”
USSOCOM’s Technical Experimentation Program encourages anyone considering applying for consideration to thoroughly read the RFI. It can be found by going to sam.gov and searching for “Signature Management and Defeat.” The webpage includes safety guidelines and a deliberate risk assessment worksheet along with the RFI.
For Freeman, it is important that small businesses from the Carolinas are represented among the companies selected to participate in this event.
“I really want to see North Carolina and South Carolina represented in these 50-80 companies that will be participating. There will be 350-400 people every day on site,” Freeman said. “This is a great opportunity for local companies to
represent, and I want to see them put their money where their mouth is. We often talk about seeking opportunities for local small businesses, and here it is right in front of people.”
It is important to note that these events are by invitation only and are not open to the general public.
Freeman used to work for UNCP’s small business incubator, so thriving small businesses and communities are a passion for him. He sees the way that these events at the ETI facility boost the economy of Red Springs. He says the hotels fill up, the gas stations are busy and even the grocery stores are selling in higher numbers. He understands how difficult and daunting it can be to get a foot in the door with military contracting, but he’s also seen the amazing benefits of working with the Army.
When Freeman, who is native to the area and a Lumbee Tribal Citizen, was first attempting to get into government contracting, he experienced prejudice and was told that Native Americans didn’t have a place in the Army. Later, a civilian contractor working with the military
gave Freeman the idea for a facility to run training and events like these. He found the warehouse while going through a haunted house and quickly began building the business from there. Through his perseverance and finding military leadership of high character who were willing to work with him, he was able to establish many lasting partnerships that have allowed ETI to flourish.
“This is our fourth year hosting the Technical Experimentation,” Freeman shared. “I’ve seen companies that participated in the event a couple of years ago with drones are now making fleets of drones. We’ve made some great partnerships and working relationships. That’s what this is all about.”
This is just one of many trainings, demonstrations and events that ETI organizes and hosts throughout the year.
An important tip from Freeman: any business that is selected for this event needs to bring their engineers/ technology developers. There will be technical questions and demonstrations that only an engineer can handle.
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY USSOCOM
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lthough Father’s Day is still a couple of weeks away, I wanted to shine a spotlight on my dad just like I was able to for my mom in my last editor’s note.
My dad, Mark Meador, is a hardworking, strong, dedicated, smart and loving father who I admire greatly.
He’s undeniably cool considering he plays the guitar and rides a motorcycle, but he’s also level-headed and thorough in all his decision-making. He’s funny and enjoys making people laugh, something I have in common with him.
When I was little, he’d make up stories to tell me to fall asleep. I still remember the magical tales of George the bunny and Don the dragon, and I think that’s part of what inspired my love of writing and storytelling.
Whether it was basketball, tennis or schoolwork, my dad was always encouraging me to do my best. I remember the many years of us going to father-daughter dances, from when I was small enough to be picked up or to stand on his feet while we danced, to when I was old
enough to spend most of my time dancing with friends, but still finding him for a song or two.
While I didn’t follow in his footsteps of becoming an accountant, I attribute my work ethic largely to his example.
My dad and mom will both be visiting me in just a couple of weeks, and I can’t wait to spend time with them. I am so blessed to have such wonderful parents, and I’m excited to show them around some of my favorite businesses in Fayetteville.
Enjoy the issue,
stephaniem@bizfayetteville.com
PHOTO PROVIDED BY MAGNIFIC.COM
Stephanie Meador with her dad, Mark Meador.
Community questions
DISCUSSIONS BEGIN WITHIN THE LUMBEE TRIBE OF N.C. ABOUT POTENTIAL CASINO PROJECT
Amidst the glitz and glamour of the idea of a new casino coming to the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, members of the Tribe are preparing for an important vote taking place on June 23 that will make or break the project.
The Tribe received full federal recognition on Dec. 18, 2025, giving them the authority to pass a gaming ordinance to allow them to legally conduct gaming on their lands in accordance with the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA).
On June 23, 2026, the Tribe’s members will vote to amend the tribal constitution to legally and clearly authorize gaming.
In late December of 2025, the Lumbee Tribe purchased 254.88 acres of land on I-95 next to exit 10 and announced the beginning plans for a casino and other hospitality-focused developments.
INCLUDED IN THOSE PLANS are the Lumbee Dark Water Resort, a “regional destination, for family entertainment and business leisure,” according to plans on the Tribe’s informational website.
OTHER PHASES OF THE PLAN INCLUDE:
A family hotel
Museum and heritage center
Retail space
Initial and Ultimate gaming facilities
A leisure hotel
Convention & entertainment center
Condo hotels
A golf course
Now, communities are having discussions about the impact of the project and what that could mean for their individual districts and the Tribe as a whole.
On Monday, June 1, 2026, Tribe members from District 2 and District 15, the districts surrounding the area currently planned for the casino, met for a community meeting. Tribal Chairman of the Lumbee Tribe John Lowery joined the meeting via Microsoft Teams and started the discussion with a Power Point presentation outlining the current plans for the project, its economic impact and potential ben-
will expand
restaurant
efits for the Tribe should the casino be built. During his presentation, he also gave an overview of how other Tribes across the country are operating casinos in their territories.
Following Chairman Lowery’s presentation, District 2 Representative Graylen Mitchell and District 15 Representative Sharon Hunt answered questions from community members. Some of the questions included concerns about the timeline of the project and the timing of the vote, what efforts were being done to educate Elders before they vote, where Tribe members can access the Tribe’s constitution and what will happen if the Tribe votes not to allow gaming.
While the project is still in the early planning stages, representatives encouraged members to view some of the online resources available for more information.
Since announcing the project, the Tribe has taken efforts to educate members about the project plans and the importance of the upcoming vote. The Lumbee Tribe
launched LumbeesChoose.com to help answer common questions, provide a layout of the things planned and provide more details about the next steps of the project.
According to the website, the Lumbee Tribe of NC would own 100% of the casino once built. If the amendment passes, the Tribal Council will have a gaming ordinance that approves and governs how the Tribe will legally conduct gaming on its lands under IGRA. The ordinance must then be approved by the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC), a federal regulatory agency.
The Tribal Gaming Commission would be an independent Tribal regulatory body responsible for regulating gaming operations to ensure compliance with tribal, state and federal law. Members of the Gaming Commission would be nominated by the Chairman and approved by the Tribal Council.
The Tribe has also launched the Vote Yes For Lumbees Facebook page to help share testimonies, opinions and information in support of
the project on social media.
While the Tribe did not respond to the Greater Fayetteville Business Journal’s request for comment, Chairman Lowery shared his support for the project in a released video, stating in part:
“This effort is about protecting the Lumbee Tribe’s opportunity to create long-term economic growth that directly benefits our people… Our goal is simple, to ensure and protect the Lumbee Tribe, and to make sure we have a fair opportunity to build a successful economic enterprise that benefits our people before commercial outside interests control the market.”
The amendment is going to be up for vote on June 23, 2026. Tribal members must be 18 years or older and must vote in person. Absentee ballots should have been received by May 22, 2026.
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY GFBJ & LUMBEE TRIBE OF N.C.
Left: On Monday, June 1, 2026, Tribe members from District 2 and District 15, the districts surrounding the area currently planned for the casino, met for a community meeting. Bottom Right: The casino is being planned in two parts; An initial gaming facility that will include gaming devices, food and beverage and office spaces and an ultimate gaming facility that
gaming,
and hospitality offerings. Hotels and entertainment options are also in the works.
>> By Stephanie Meador
From EDUCATION, page 1
“A very common thing we see is…students that are graduating from high school that know about photosynthesis, and they know how to find what X is, and they know all these things but they were never taught how to manage their money, so then they go off to college and they make all these big financial decisions, like I did, without any guidance, because no one ever taught them this,” shared Founder and President of Money Box Academy Inc. Crystal McLean.
Money Box Academy received $10,000 from United Way’s Youth Growth Stock Trust. They were selected out of a competitive pool of applicants.
“Youth programming has been really a very important part of the United Way in Cumberland County, pretty much since our inception,” shared Executive Director of United Way of Cumberland County Scott Embry. “It’s really a lot of competition every year for those funds…and Crystal and her team, I mean, Money Box, it’s just something not everybody’s doing... She’s doing something that’s so impactful, but it’s not really got any duplication, and that’s one of the primary things we’re looking for.”
Money Box Academy officially launched in October 2024 to provide accessible, barrier-free financial literacy education — especially for students in Cumberland County, but ultimately across all ages — so that people can make informed financial decisions and avoid entering adulthood without basic money management skills. Thus far, around 4,200 individuals have benefited from Money Box Academy’s programming.
“Our goal is to expand programming… we have a high school boot camp program. We have a middle school boot camp that’s coming up, because one of the parents said there are a lot of
BUSINESS EDUCATION
Money Box Academy’s youth programming is designed to build foundational financial knowledge in an engaging and interactive environment.
organizations that do a lot of things for high schoolers and elementary, but they forget about the middle schoolers, so we’re doing something for middle schoolers…We want to do a financial summit in August, which is for different people in the community, from entrepreneurs, adults, youth and college students, so that they all continue to get that programming and resources that are attributed to their finances. So this money will really help us expand programming,” shared McLean.
Moneybox Academy delivers free financial literacy programs directly in schools across Cumberland County, using formal initiatives, organic relationships with school staff and partnerships with embedded nonprofits, plus social media and community outreach to make sure students can easily access their programs.
“We just have a lot of confidence [in] Crystal and what she’s doing. She’s just a real gift for this community, and to have the opportunity to partner with her, we feel good about it, our donors feel good about it and our partners feel
good about programs that make huge impacts in the lives of children in this community, and she’s a shining star of what that looks like,” added Embry.
Money Box Academy is preparing to launch a second High School Financial Bootcamp at Fayetteville Technical Community College this month, June 8-12, following last year’s inaugural session that was covered by local news. They are also partnering with the City of Fayetteville and Cumberland County Parks and Recreation Department this summer to bring financial literacy to summer interns across the county.
In addition to youth programming, Money Box Academy provides services to adults, seniors and other vulnerable populations in need of financial education. While the funding from United Way is specifically for youth programming, Money Box Academy also received a $3500 microgrant from Cumberland County to assist in providing programming to other groups of people.
“Our biggest focus is intergenerational financial literacy, so we start as young as kindergarten; we go all the way up to our seniors and our elders. We extend out to our entrepreneurs, Veterans, active duty and even justice-involved individuals that are getting out of a prison sentence, and they may have been in 10 years or 12 years, and they don’t know Cash App, they don’t know Zelle…so who is teaching them how to be able to be reintegrated into society to be able to hopefully reduce recidivism?” explained McLean. “We
are planning something for senior citizens, which is a digital financial readiness lab, because a lot of people don’t teach senior citizens how to manage their money and how not to be scammed out of their money.”
Another way Money Box Academy is removing barriers to financial education is through the addition of the new Director of Bilingual Programs & Community Engagement, Mary Samantha Angarita. Angarita will help make sure that individuals whose native language is not English still have access to the education they need to make smart financial decisions.
McLean’s work throughout the city and the county has been widely recognized for filling a gap in our community’s educational offerings. Just recently, the City of Fayetteville issued a proclamation designating April as Financial Literacy Month. This proclamation is the city putting its name behind the idea that financial education is not optional; it is essential.
To make sure everyone has access to this important education, Money Box Academy works to provide these programs free of charge.
“Our goal is to be able to procure grants like the United Way grant and like the City of Fayetteville grants and [Cumberland County grant] so that no person in the seat has to pay to be there. Our goal is to also make sure there’s barrier-free entry, so that there’s nothing stopping them,” shared McLean.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY CRYSTAL MCLEAN
PHOTO PROVIDED BY CRYSTAL MCLEAN McLean’s work throughout the city and the county has been widely recognized for filling a gap in our community’s educational offerings. Just recently, the City of Fayetteville issued a proclamation designating April as Financial Literacy Month.
ACHIEVERS
Robert C. Pinson awarded the Order of the Longleaf Pine
Robert C. “Bob” Pinson, president and CEO of the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County, was recently awarded the Order of the Longleaf Pine during a special celebration attended by Arts Council Board members, family, elected officials and staff.
The award was presented by Representative Diane Wheatley and Cumberland County Commissioner Kirk deViere in recognition of Pinson’s longstanding leadership, service to the State of North Carolina and transformative contributions to the arts, nonprofit and civic sectors throughout Cumberland County and beyond.
The Order of the Longleaf Pine is among the most prestigious honors granted by the Governor of North Carolina and is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary service and dedication to their communities and the state.
Pinson has served the Arts Council for 15 years, including the last six years as president/CEO. Under his leadership, the organization expanded its role as a driver of arts, culture, tourism and economic impact throughout the region. His tenure has included major investments in grantmaking, public art, arts education, cultural partnerships and creative placemaking initiatives, including the development of ArtsXL, the Arts Council’s new downtown creative hub.
“Bob’s leadership has shaped the trajectory of arts and culture in Cumberland County for more than a decade,” said incoming President/CEO Kennon Jackson, Jr. in a press release. “His commitment to community, collaboration and public service has strengthened our region and enriched the lives of countless residents.”
During his career, Pinson has
What are you and your peers achieving? Have you reached a new goal? Have you acquired another business? Maybe your business has a new hire you would like to highlight.
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championed the role of the arts as essential infrastructure for thriving communities, helping position Fayetteville and Cumberland County as a regional destination for arts and culture.
“This recognition is deeply meaningful,” said Pinson in a press release. “I’m incredibly grateful to have served alongside dedicated artists, nonprofit leaders, educators, elected officials, board members, staff and community partners who believe in the power of the arts to strengthen our community.”
Fayetteville Rotary Club awards CCS Social Work Coordinator Pamela Story with one of Rotary’s highest honors
The Fayetteville Rotary Club has honored Cumberland County Schools’ Social Work Coordinator Pamela Story as a Paul Harris Fellow, one of Rotary’s highest honors awarded to individuals whose service reflects the heart of Rotary’s mission.
Story was recognized for her many years of assistance and collaboration in identifying Cumberland County students for participation in the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards. For nearly 20 years, she has collaborated with the Fayetteville Rotary Club to provide leadership training opportunities for students.
“Through her dedication, Pamela Story has helped connect us (Fayetteville Rotary Club) with high school SGA advisors,” said Rotarian Dave Baggett during the presentation of the award on May 8, according to a news release. “Because of her efforts, we have been able to support deserving students for Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, helping shape future leaders across
our community.”
The presentation of Paul Harris Fellow recognition is the Rotary Foundation’s way of expressing its appreciation for a substantial contribution to its humanitarian and educational programs. Named for Rotary founder Paul Harris, rotarians designate a Paul Harris Fellow as a tribute to a person whose life demonstrates a shared purpose with the objectives of The Rotary Foundation.
“Pam Story’s impact is woven into the lives of students, counselors, educators and families throughout Cumberland County,” said Baggett in a press release. “Her service reminds us that true leadership is often quiet, humble and profoundly transformative, and her work has changed lives, strengthened our schools and uplifted our entire community.”
CBA’s
Lindsey
Backey receives Cartus’ highest honors
Coldwell Banker Advantage Relocation Director Lindsey Backey has won both of Cartus’ highest honors: the Champions Cup and the Master’s Cup.
These prestigious awards recognize exceptional performance in
relocation services, conversion excellence, broker-to-broker closings and outstanding client support at the highest level within the Cartus network.
The Master’s Cup is awarded to the broker who achieves the highest total excellence points at the anagram level, with points earned through conversion, broker-to-broker closings and agent-generated closings.
The Champions Cup recognizes the broker who achieves the highest combined total of excellence points and raw conversion at the anagram level.
“This recognition is a testament to exceptional leadership, relentless dedication, attention to detail and a passion for delivering outstanding service to both clients and agents. It also reflects the incredible relationships that have been built within the relocation community and the trust that others place in our organization every single day,” shared President of Coldwell Banker Advantage Sandhills Region Lisa Geddie in a press release.
Simone Johnson joins GFBJ as director of events & special projects
Simone Johnson has officially accepted the position of director of events & special projects with the Greater Fayetteville Business Journal.
Johnson previously served as chief operating officer for the Fayetteville Dogwood Festival, where she poured countless hours, passion, creativity and heart into helping move the organization forward.
“[Simone’s] leadership, dedication and belief in this community have left an undeniable mark on our organization, and we know she will continue to do amazing things in this next chapter,” shared Executive Director of the Dogwood Festival Kaylynn Suarez. Johnson began her new role with GFBJ on Friday, May 29. Her responsibilities include managing and planning events, managing special projects, such as the annual Book on Business, contributing to
PHOTO PROVIDED BY ARTS COUNCIL OF FAYETTEVILLE/CUMBERLAND COUNTY
L to R: County Commissioner Kirk deViere, Representative Diane Wheatley, Bob Pinson.
PHOTO COURTESY OF FAYETTEVILLE DOGWOOD FESTIVAL Johnson
PHOTO PROVIDED BY FAYETTEVILLE ROTARY CLUB
L to R: Rotarians Alfie Burnham and David Baggett; Pamela Story, Rotarians Magda Baggett and Joel Valley.
From ACHIEVERS, page 8
editorial content and contributing to GFBJ’s digital presence.
“I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to join the Greater Fayetteville Business Journal and honored to be part of a driven team that has already created such a meaningful impact. I’m especially excited to help develop events that highlight the depth, expertise and innovation within our local business community,” shared Johnson.
Kellie Hunt Blue elected chair of UNC Board of Governors; Terry Hutchens elected vice chair
The University of North Carolina Board of Governors elected Kellie Hunt Blue as its next chair, effective July 1, 2026. Terry Hutchens was elected vice chair.
Blue, a resident of Pembroke, has served on the Board of Governors since 2017 and has been vice chair since 2024. She earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of North Carolina Pembroke, where she received the Outstanding Alumnus Award. She later chaired the UNC Pembroke Board of Trustees. Blue currently serves as county manager for Robeson County, overseeing the business operations of county government.
“Kellie Blue’s election as chair is a tremendous honor for her and a proud moment for our county and region and certainly, the entire BraveNation community,” said Chancellor Robin Gary Cummings in a press release. “Throughout her career, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to expanding opportunity, strengthening communities and advancing public higher education across North Carolina. I am confident the UNC System will continue to benefit from her vision, integrity and deep understanding of the transformative power of education for all students.”
“I am honored to lead this Board during a moment when higher education is more important than ever for the future of our state,” Blue said in a press release. “For several years, the Board and its leadership have worked to keep costs low,
make universities more efficient and ensure that degrees translate into excellent jobs and bright futures for our students. I am excited to continue this work and look forward to serving alongside Vice Chair Hutchens and Secretary Coward as we enact responsible policies that strengthen the university and its mission.”
Blue said her leadership philosophy has been shaped by a lifelong commitment to service and community connection.
“Growing up in Robeson County taught me the importance of hard work and service to others,” Blue said in a press release. “I learned the value of connection and leadership through service. I’ve always believed that if you make a commitment, you do it with excellence and give your very best.”
Hutchens, of Fayetteville, has served on the Board since 2019 and chairs the Committee on Educational Planning, Policies and Programs. He is a founding partner
ACHIEVERS
of Hutchens Law Firm LLP and earned a bachelor’s degree from NC State University and an MBA and a law degree from Wake Forest University.
The Board elected the new officers during its May meeting. They will each serve two-year terms in their leadership positions.
Dogwood Brings TowneBank to Fayetteville.
Dogwood State Bank and TowneBank are joining hands and hearts to combine teams of extraordinary bankers across North and South Carolina.
TowneBank, like Dogwood, understands banking with a heart.
Blue
Hutchens
The story of Hubb’s Farm
FROM FAMILY HERITAGE TO LOCAL LANDMARK
Hubb’s Farm is a premier agritourism destination located in Clinton, N.C.. While the farm is best known for its expansive autumn corn maze, it also boasts year-round activities for families to enjoy.
Tammy and John Peterson opened Hubb’s Farm 19 years ago as a fall festival destination for the greater Fayetteville community. Tammy named the business as a tribute to her father, James Hubbard. She grew up on the land now known as Hubb’s Farm, where she tended to her family’s produce and swine farming operations.
When the Petersons opened Hubb’s Farm in 2008, agritourism was not a popular industry for farmers to break into. The Petersons, however, had the foresight to notice that consumer preferences were gradually changing. Farm owners needed to find a way to keep their local communities engaged and informed. Thus, Hubb’s Farm opened to serve as a bridge between customers and the farmers who feed them.
“It was another diversification in ag,” Tammy shared. “I guess you could call us agricultural entrepreneurs. There is a need for farming families to continue to diversify in order to be able to work on their farm.”
The opening of Hubb’s Farm introduced a new opportunity for sustainable income to farmers in the Sampson County community.
Across North Carolina, farmland is rapidly being developed into residential neighborhoods and cities. While this development is evidence of a growing economy, the inhabitants of those neighborhoods are becoming increasingly disconnected from the farmers who sustain them. The Petersons use the attractions at
What started as a seasonal corn maze has evolved into a year-round operation. The spring, summer and autumn seasons all bring unique activities for families.
Hubb’s Farm to draw people into rural Sampson County and teach visitors about common farming practices.
For example, the swine industry has a massive presence in Sampson County. Hubb’s Farm features hog houses, cleverly named the “Taj Mahog” houses, that were once operational but now serve as educational tools. Customers can tour the facilities and read informational signage to learn exactly how a modern hog operation works.
As the years have passed, the Petersons have gradually expanded their attractions to keep customers coming back season after season. What started as a seasonal corn maze has evolved into a year-round operation. The spring, summer and autumn seasons all bring unique activities for families. This summer, Hubb’s Farm is offering “Summer
Play Days” from May 26 to July 30. These Play Days utilize daily passes for visitors to enjoy attractions that include nature trails, rope mountains, a giant sandbox, Toddler Town, human foosball and more.
Hubb’s Farm is also available as an event rental space for birthday parties and corporate gatherings. Clients can rent out the pavilion shelter, bring in their own food options and utilize the giant jump pillow, tire mountain, Animal Acres or any of the other features on the property.
During the springtime, Hubb’s Farm hosts fun, educational school field trips. Students are guided through educational tours where they get up-close looks at farming equipment in a safe environment. Hubb’s Farm also hosts an annual Easter celebration during the spring. However, the fall season is when Hubb’s Farm truly shines.
From Sept. 19 through Nov. 7, the farm is fully staffed to operate homemade food stands, hayrides, a mini zipline course and more. Families frequently visit the pumpkin patch and flower fields for photo opportunities. The Petersons have a few new surprise attractions planned for the upcoming fall season that they believe will be major hits.
When planning new farm features, Tammy draws inspiration from her own parenting experiences. For example, Toddler Town came about be-
cause Tammy recognized a need for parents of toddlers to have a place to rest while their young children safely roamed free. The “Baby Hub” was created for nursing mothers who need a cool, private area to feed their babies and change diapers.
“Anytime we go anywhere, customer service is something that I’m always looking at,” Tammy said. “What do they do to help their customers feel like they want to go back there? How can Hubb’s Farm meet the needs of our visitors?”
Tammy describes farming as a passion, and she is excited to share that passion with college students participating in a program funded by Smithfield Foods called S.E.E.D. this summer.
S.E.E.D. stands for Southeastern Education and Economic Development, and it is a program hosted by several community colleges throughout North Carolina. Students can receive up to 15 college credits and earn up to $15 per hour by participating in this program on partnering farms. Hubb’s Farm will host multiple students this summer, providing them with valuable training in the agritourism business.
For more information on the S.E.E.D. program, visit ncbce.org. If you would like to learn more about Hubb’s Farm or schedule a tour, visit their website at hubbsfarmnc.com.
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY TAMMY PETERSON
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY TAMMY PETERSON
Left: Hubb’s Farm is home to many animals, including Jojo the pig. Right: Hubb’s Farm features hog houses, cleverly named the “Taj Mahog” houses, that were once operational but now serve as educational tools. Customers can tour the facilities and read informational signage to learn exactly how a modern hog operation works.
Milestone achieved
UNCP OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY PROGRAM EARNS FULL SEVEN-YEAR ACCREDITATION
Less than two years after welcoming its first cohort of students, UNC Pembroke’s Master of Science in Occupational Therapy program has earned full accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE), marking a major milestone for the university’s expanding healthcare education efforts.
ACOTE recently awarded UNCP’s program the maximum seven-year accreditation term following an on-site review. Recognized as the quality standard of education and training, accreditation signals to future employers that graduates of UNCP’s program have met rigorous national standards for education and clinical preparation. Graduates will now be eligible to take the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam and apply for licensure in any state.
For Dr. Jose Rafols, chair and program director, the milestone reflects years of planning, collaboration and commitment to building a program designed to serve southeastern North Carolina.
“This recognition validates the strength of the curriculum, the dedication of our faculty and the culture of excellence we set out to create,” Rafols said in a press release. “Our students are being prepared not only to succeed in the profession, but to lead within it.”
UNCP’s MSOT is an immersive, hands-on program designed to meet the growing demand for occupational therapists in rural southeastern North Carolina, where access to therapy services remains limited. UNCP launched the program in 2024 with its first cohort of 21 students. The inaugural cohort is expected to complete its didactic and clinical studies this August and will march in the December 2026 commencement exercises.
Dr. Eva Skuka, dean of the College of Health Sciences, said earning full accreditation without citations demonstrates both the strength of the program and the university’s growing investment in healthcare education.
“This reflects years of thoughtful planning, disciplined execution
and a shared belief in preparing competent, ethical and community-responsive occupational therapy professionals,” Skuka said in a press release. “The faculty and leadership within UNCP’s Occupational Therapy department have built a program centered on excellence, student success and the healthcare needs of our region.”
According to a study by the Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, UNCP’s primary service region has fewer healthcare professionals per 10,000 residents than the state average across every profession studied.
Recognizing growing healthcare workforce shortages across southeastern North Carolina, UNCP embarked on a major health sciences expansion in 2018, establishing the College of Health Sciences to unite the departments of counseling, kinesiology, nursing and social work in addressing the region’s complex healthcare and social challenges.
Since then, UNCP has launched several health-related academic offerings designed to expand student opportunities and help meet growing workforce demands, including the Doctor of Nursing Practice, the Master of Healthcare Administration and the Master of Science in Occupational Therapy.
The university also recently
established an accelerated RN-toMSN pathway, allowing working nurses with an associate degree to earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in nursing in as few as 24 months, as well as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track within its Master of Science in Nursing program. Both programs are accepting students for fall 2026.
Earlier this year, UNCP broke ground on its new Clinical Sciences Building, a $96.8 million, 74,000-square-foot facility that will serve as a hub for advanced healthcare education and collaboration.
The facility will feature classrooms, laboratories, clinical training spaces and patient care areas designed to provide students with hands-on experience while expanding access to care for surrounding communities. Once completed, the building will house the MSOT department, several clinical sciences programs and the future College of Optometric Medicine, which is currently seeking accreditation.
Chancellor Robin Gary Cummings said the MSOT program’s success is evidence of UNCP’s long-term commitment to improving healthcare outcomes across southeastern North Carolina.
“As a university grounded in service, UNCP is committed to preparing healthcare professionals who are ready to make an imme-
diate impact,” Cummings said in a press release. “Programs like occupational therapy strengthen the healthcare workforce pipeline while expanding access to care for those who need it most.”
For Erika Nicholson, a graduate student from Rutherfordton, N.C., occupational therapy is deeply personal.
Inspired by her grandfather, a World War II Veteran who recovered with the help of occupational therapy after surviving a major heart attack, Nicholson views entering the profession as her way of giving back. Nicholson said the program’s immersive and hands-on learning environment has reinforced her confidence as she prepares to enter the profession.
“There’s a level of support in this program I’ve never had before as a student,” she said in a press release. “It’s not just reading from a book. It’s constantly hands-on, always pushing us to apply what we’re learning. When we graduate, we’ll be ready.”
With accreditation secured and its first graduating class approaching, UNCP’s Occupational Therapy program is positioned to help meet growing healthcare needs across southeastern North Carolina for years to come.
IMAGES PROVIDED BY UNCP
UNCP occupational therapy students put learning into practice during a pediatric therapy simulation, building the skills and confidence needed to serve future patients.
>> By Eddie Velazquez
Building hope
RAV WORKS TO BRING TINY HOMES FOR HOMELESS VETERANS TO FAYETTEVILLE
Redeploying American Veterans (RAV) is aiming to solve one of the most pressing issues facing Veterans in America: homelessness.
To do so, Shawn Batien, the executive director of RAV, and his partners are proposing raising a village around vulnerable Veterans. Batien and his partners don’t just mean that metaphorically; they plan to build a village of tiny homes in Fayetteville to house former U.S. Military members and provide them with stability.
“The goal is to be able to provide wraparound services for homeless Veterans, starting off in the Fort Bragg-Fayetteville area,” Batien said. “There are people who come from different walks of life, who have different background stories; some are better off than others. And we want to have someone who’s capable of handling that transition, and get them into a tiny home.”
The village of tiny homes would include a community center and other services that can help Veterans achieve self-sufficiency.
“We provide the opportunity via a home, and then to get individuals fiscally trained, educated and into a livable wage,” Batien said. “That term is important for us, so that we get an individual into a position where they can not just live paycheck to paycheck, but they’re able to accumulate some wealth, and that they’re able to get a savings program, and then eventually segue into a home that they can call their own.”
RAV is currently in negotiations with a donor who is willing to contribute land to the organization, just shy of an acre, according to Batien. He added that, according to city laws, that parcel will accommodate at least five tiny homes.
Batien said he expects a resolution to those negotiations to come around mid-June.
“Then after that is getting the construction and the surveying and all that stuff done, so my hope, my aspirations right now are to have a community that’s been up and running with tangible results by 2030,” he noted.
To build the homes, RAV expects to get some help from community
The planned development will feature five tiny homes, a community and services hub, ample green space and outdoor gathering areas.
partners. The organization has had some exploratory conversations with Fayetteville Technical Community College to collaborate with the college’s engineering program for services.
“Whether that’s leveraging their engineering program via material building, but trying to get FTCC involved in the community in a way
that’s meaningful through their engineering program,” Batien said.
“We’ve also had a couple of conversations with some other Fortune 50 companies, and then also involved in the Home Builders Association of Fayetteville, specifically, so being able to leverage the community college and hopefully leveraging the network that is the Home Builders
Association to help provide some services or support, or at least alleviate some of the pressures.”
Wraparound services entail connecting Veterans with the local U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs branch for assessments of their physical and mental health.
“And then get them into some financial education classes to get them smart on today’s economy.” Batien noted.
From there, through RAV’s partnerships, Veterans can be connected with a potential job or an education program that can pipeline them into a role they may have the requisite skills or passion for.
“And just getting into that position, back on their feet for about a year, and then back out into their first home in a long time,” Batien said. “Wraparound is mental, physical health, financial responsibility and education, getting someone pipelined into a position where they have a livable wage.”
Batien said some city and county officials are on board with the organization’s mission; now RAV’s objectives are to convince officials to do more.
“Anybody that’s on record is going to go ahead and agree that providing services and support for Veterans is a great cause, and it is right,” Batien said. “People want to see land and movement to make sure that their investment is worthwhile, but we also need the investment in order to move forward, so it’s just a bit of a being in the middle.”
To learn more about RAV, visit their website at ravusa.org.
PHOTO BY REDEPLOYING AMERICAN VETERANS
Health care close to home
CAPE FEAR VALLEY HEALTH CUTS RIBBON ON DOROTHEA DIX ADOLESCENT CARE – LILLINGTON
On May 22, Cape Fear Valley Health (CFVH) celebrated the opening of Cape Fear Valley Dorothea Dix Adolescent Care – Lillington, a new inpatient psychiatric unit for adolescents located on the campus of Central Harnett Hospital.
The new facility is designed to provide inpatient psychiatric care for adolescents ages 12 to 17 while supporting the needs of their families. The addition of this specialized unit will expand access to behavioral health services for families in surrounding communities, including Fort Bragg, Fayetteville and Raleigh.
“Adolescence is a time of immense transition, and for far too many young people, it can also be a time of overwhelming struggle….When we talk about psychiatric illness, it can sometimes sound clinical or frightening, but at the heart of it, they’re simply our children, our family members, our friends and our neighbors who are hurting and who need specialized help. Today, we’re taking a massive step forward to provide that,” shared CFVH CEO Daniel Weatherly.
Children experiencing a psychiatric crisis and their families often face extended waits in emergency departments until an inpatient psychiatric bed becomes available elsewhere in North Carolina. The new adolescent care unit aims to help reduce those delays by providing timely access to care in a dedicated therapeutic setting.
“Those of us in mental health are very fortunate to be allowed into our patients’ lives in the most personal way possible. Just as important, or possibly more so, we have a responsibility to be the ones who speak out for what is right, and especially when something is wrong and needs changing or treatment, I think of us as the conscience of medicine,” shared Psychiatrist Dr. Ken Fleishman during the ceremony. “This unit, the Dorothea Dix Care Unit of Lillington, is going to treat young people from our community in our community and help their families be an active and integral part of the process...We look forward to the future when this unit will help in the training of child and adolescent psychiatrists, general psychiatrists and medical students
On May 22, Cape Fear Valley Health celebrated
Cape Fear Valley Dorothea Dix Adolescent Care – Lillington, a new inpatient psychiatric unit for adolescents located on the campus of Central Harnett Hospital.
who will stay in our community while helping heal our teens.”
“When a teenager is hurting, isolation makes the pain worse. Distance and separation from family make the healing harder. Today that changes for the adolescents and families of Harnett County. With the opening of this adolescent behavioral health unit, we are bringing hope home. We’re telling our young people, we see you, and you do not have to leave your community to get the help that you deserve and that you need. This facility is more than just brick and mortar. It’s a sanctuary. It’s a place where specialized, compassionate physicians, nurses and therapists will meet our youth where they are. It ensures that healing happens close to family, close to their friends and close to that familiar support system that matters most,” shared CFVH Chief Operating Officer Michael Tart.
The unit will offer evidence-based treatment through a multidisciplinary team that includes psychotherapy staff, psychiatrists, recreational therapists and other behavioral health professionals focused on adolescent care.
“This has been a long time coming. I think that me, and speaking for everyone on our team and all the
higher-ups, we’re very, very excited for this unit to be open and to finally be a resource for the families and adolescents here in Harnett County,” shared Dr. Amir Gassemi, direc tor of the new unit.
During a typical short-term stay of three to five days,
...When we talk about psychiatric illness, it can sometimes sound clinical or frightening, but at the heart of it, they’re simply our children, our family members, our friends and our neighbors who are hurting and who need specialized help”
The one-story, 8,843-square-foot freestanding behavioral health center includes 21 inpatient beds, a group therapy room, an outdoor recreation area and a quiet activity room.
adolescents will participate in individual, group and family counseling, with treatment centered on evidence-based adaptive skill building to support successful reintegration into home and community life.
A key component of care will be identifying underlying issues and providing evidence-based recommendations to guide future treatment. The unit will also assist adolescents and families in connecting with community support services to improve functioning at home and beyond.
The one-story, 8,843-square-foot freestanding behavioral health center includes 21 inpatient beds, a group therapy room, an outdoor recreation area and a quiet activity room. Patients will begin being admitted this month.
“We are honored to have partnered with Cape Fear Valley Health to build this thoughtfully designed center that will have a lasting, positive impact on our community for many years to come,” Robins & Morton Operations Manager Mike Bumgardner said in a press release. “We look forward to seeing this facility serve young people by providing a safe and supportive environment.”
— Daniel Weatherly, CFVH CEO
Robins & Morton served as the general contractor. McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture was the architect.
PHOTO PROVIDED BY GFBJ
the opening of
PHOTO PROVIDED BY CHARLES DICKENS PHOTOGRAPHY
THE RIGHT PARTNER MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE
For more than 185 years, we’ve forged personal relationships with our customers and communities, funding economic development and rallying around the causes that are important to our neighbors. With local bankers you know and trust, businesses and individuals throughout the Carolinas continue to choose United Bank.
Reader’s Guide
BizLeads is a collection of information gathered from greater Fayetteville courthouses, state government offices and information websites. The 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 from the Greater Fayetteville Business Journal region that were recently incorporated in the State of North Carolina.
Addresses are publicly available.
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
NT Consulting Group LLC
4925 Maxwell Road
Stedman Agent: Thomas Fontanilla
COURTHOUSE
MINK - MINK LLC 439 Westwood Shopping Ctr PMB 257
Fayetteville Agent: JESSE JOE CHRISTIAN
Swift Lyfe Services LLC 6944 Brockwood St
Fayetteville Agent: Natasha Rena Thomas
Steininger Industries LLC 3067 S River School Rd
Wade Agent: Timothy David Steininger
CLC Insurance Solutions LLC
2116 Rock Ave
Fayetteville Agent: Christopher Lane Clemmons
I'm Worth It 535 Alleghany Rd
Fayetteville Agent: Taneshia Kenielle Saunders
Alternative Healing Mental Health Services PLLC 362 Lakeview Dr
Fayetteville Agent: Kristen Brooks Lesneski
BIZ LEADS
Agent: Barbara R Hambrick
EBEE LLC
3546 Pioneer Dr Hope Mills Agent: Mujahid Yagoub
Fayetteville Agent: Heather J Kilgore
PickelARMsCO LLC
975 Bassman Ln Apt 201
Espinoza
Moral Health LLC
3546 Pioneer Dr
Hope Mills
Agent: Noah Yaqoub
Holmes Properties of Fayetteville NC LLC
307 Broadhill Ln
Fayetteville Agent: Bonnie Saunders
JD Wooden Designs LLC 1926 Bluffside Dr
Fayetteville Agent: Juan Deleon
Three Rivers
Healthcare Staffing Agency LLC 1864 Pinewood Ter
Fayetteville Agent: Tamala Rivers
Carolina Conjure House llc 5305 Tabor Ct
Fayetteville Agent: Brittany Ann Ferguson
CNVC Holdings LLC
2501 Bragg Blvd Ste A
Fayetteville Agent: Victor G Glover
Holding Hands Deliverance Ministry Church
5359 Sophia Bill Rd
Fayetteville Agent: Bettyann Melvin
Fort Bragg Massage LLC 6415 Independence Place Dr Apt 212
Fayetteville Agent: Billie Jo Carroll
HOOKS BOOKS AND NO BARS LLC
6016 Lake Trail Dr
Fayetteville Agent: Khadija Felix
Wesley Chapel AME Zion Church 7417 Main St Wade Agent: George Strater
DreadHeadTed Enterprises LLC 1032 Ancestry Dr Apt 2
