Child Care Crisis Affects Everyone
The challenge of providing quality care for a child affects not only the parents of that child, but also the parents’ employers. In fact, the crisis surrounding child care in Onslow County impacts everyone in the business community.
ExCEL NC reports that “child care issues cost Onslow County more than $82m/year.” The organization, also known as Executives Championing Early Learning, is “working to build a North Carolina where every child, every family, and every business can excel.” In collaboration with One Place in Jacksonville, ExCEL NC recently hosted an Economic Summit on these issues.
Neil Harrington, Director of Policy and Research, and Dr. Leanna Martin, Early Childhood Education Policy Analyst, presented statistics on the economic impact of North Carolina’s child care crisis.
The team presented information from the business side as well as from the child care side of the challenges in Onslow County. They explained that the $82 million number includes a $63.7 million loss in business activity from turnover and absenteeism, a loss of $10.1 million in state tax revenue, and an $8.8 million loss in local tax revenue.
The issues are on the affordability side of securing child care as well as on the
challenge of paying quality workers in the child care industry. The average cost of center-based infant care in Onslow County is $12,584 a year. The average cost for a toddler is $12,480. These numbers put a financial strain on working families in the area, say Harrington and Martin.
One Place, a nonprofit organization working to connect families with resources for child care, reports that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) “considers child care affordable when it costs families no more than 7% of their household income.”
When families cannot afford quality center-based child care, they may try to piece together solutions between friends and family. Those options are not consistently dependable, which can lead to employee turnover and absenteeism.
Another issue that is integral to the child care crisis is the availability of quality care.
Harrington and Martin point out that “child care workers can find higher paying jobs easily.” The average wage in the child care industry is $13.62/hour, while the average wage for a retail sales job is $17.37/hour and for a fast food job is $19.84/hour. Many centers are having to close their doors or severely limit the number of children they can take in because of staffing issues.
The summit was led by ExCEL NC Director, Dr. Kristi Maida, and was coordinated by One Place CEO Dawn Rochelle and Chief Growth Officer Stacey Knox. Future sessions will include business roundtables to encourage those in business to come together to discuss solutions to the crisis.
One of those potential solutions is the NC Tri-Share Pilot Program, “a statewide publicprivate partnership that enhances child care for families, employers, and providers through a three-way cost split.” The cost is shared between the employer, the family, and the state of North Carolina. The program is administered by the North Carolina Partnership for Children (NCPC) and the Smart Start Network across all North Carolina counties.
For more information about NC Tri-Share, go to https:// www.smartstart.org/featuredinitiatives/nc-tri-share/.
For more information about the child care situation in North Carolina, including resources and upcoming events, visit https://excelnc.org/.
a difference for businesses in and around the Greater Onslow County area: Jacksonville, Swansboro, Richlands, Camp Lejeune, Holly Ridge, Hubert, Sneads Ferry, North Topsail Beach, Surf City, and beyond.
Events Scheduled to Celebrate Women in Business
March is Women’s History Month.
Two events are scheduled in the area to celebrate women in business who are making their own history.
The Woman-Owned Business Expo, hosted by Onslow Business, will be held Tuesday, March 24, from 4pm to 6pm, at the Sneads Ferry Community Center.
Exhibitor registration is required and the deadline is March 10.
The public will be invited to attend for free.
Details and registration are available at https:// onslowbusiness.com/woman-owned-business-expo/.
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The Jacksonville-Onslow Chamber of Commerce is hosting their second annual Success Driven Mingle on Thursday, March 19, from 5pm to 7pm, at Marine Chevrolet in Jacksonville. Space is limited, so please secure your spot at lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/ reg/kfead2h
Previous issues of Onslow Business are available online at onslowbusiness.com/previous-issues/.
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Hurricane Hole Storage: A Safe Harbor for Your Treasures
By Tammy Proctor
Every boater knows that when a storm is brewing, a “hurricane hole” is the safest place to hunker down for protection.
“My family and I would tow our boat from the Raleigh area to Topsail Island for a day on the water,” recalled Mike Edwards, owner of Hurricane Hole Storage. “After a long day, I would tow the boat home, then wash and clean it before putting it away.”
Edwards, a retired electrical engineer originally from South Africa, previously lived in London, where he designed automatic metering systems for utility companies. In 2014, he and his wife, Sue, a medical professional, moved from the Raleigh area to the greater Topsail area.
“I was bored,” Edwards said with a laugh.
That boredom soon turned into a business idea.
Drawing on both his engineering background and his experience as a boater, Edwards developed Hurricane Hole Storage with one goal: to create a secure and convenient haven for boats, recreational vehicles and valuable equipment.
Remembering the long drives hauling his boat back and forth,
Edwards designed two storage facilities on U.S. Highway 17 in Holly Ridge engineered to withstand hurricane-force winds up to 150 mph.
“I asked myself what features I would want,” he said.
The answer shaped every aspect of the property. Edwards prioritized convenience, security and storm protection. The facility includes washdown stations, a holding tank pumpout station and secure space to store tackle and gear.
“Many insurance agencies require boaters and RV owners to move equipment at least five miles inland for storm coverage,” Edwards said. “That’s why we located the units on U.S. 17.”
The Hurricane Hole Storage facility offers 200 units with roll-up doors measuring 12 and 14 feet high. Each door is equipped with wind locks for added storm protection. Units feature full ceiling-height partitions between bays, LED lighting and 20-amp, 120-volt AC power.
Individual bays range from 30 to 55 feet deep. Units begin at 30 by 12 feet and extend to 55 by 40 feet, accommodating everything from small recreational vehicles to large boats and commercial equipment.
Tenants have 24-hour access, 365 days a year. Edwards said security was a priority in the design, incorporating enhanced lighting and comprehensive security measures throughout the property.
The second Hurricane Hole Storage facility opened in January and is offering grand opening specials and discounts at both locations, 597 Hwy 17 South and 8759 Wilmington Hwy (US Hwy 17) in Holly Ridge.
For Edwards, the facility represents more than a storage solution it is peace of mind. Built by a boater who understands the time, investment and memories tied to life on the water, Hurricane Hole Storage was designed to protect not just equipment, but the lifestyle that comes with it.
For more information, call 910-541-2626 or visit www.hurricaneholestorage.com
Uptown Sports Center On Track
Playing fields, an indoor sports center, an events center, and multi-use development are in the works for the new Uptown Jacksonville Sports & Entertainment Complex.
The project began in 2021 with the City of Jacksonville’ s purchase of 400 acres at the end of Western Blvd near Gum Branch Rd. Assistant City Manager Anthony Prinz says, “we began with a recreation and parks master plan update, looking at the needs of the entire city.” The City of Jacksonville also developed a market feasibility study for sports tourism and, Prinz adds, “used that information to inform the master plan.”
An extensive public involvement process involved surveys of Jacksonville citizens as well as interested stakeholders throughout the greater community.
The development of the sports center also reflected the results of a JacksonvilleOnslow Economic Development (JOED) strategic plan survey, which revealed that an indoor recreation facility was highest on the list of preferred “quality of life amenities” for both business and community respondents.
Prinz explains that the center will be open to public use. He says while “the city council has made it very clear that sports tourism and economic development are one of the key goals of this facility, it also has to serve public recreation and space needs.”
The Onslow County Commissioners have recently signaled their support for the project, with the stipulation that the city provide certain information. Prinz says much of that documentation has been completed. He describes it as “a good first step.” He adds, “we've had really good dialogue with them and are working with a subcommittee of city council members and county commissioners to review the project.”
In addition to developing rectangular playing fields and an indoor sports and events center, there is a plan to sell some of the land for residential development.
Prinz refers to the entire site as a “a live, work, play type of project.” Of the 400 acres, a significant portion is unbuildable and will become walking trails.
The sports center is planned to be a 100,000 sq ft facility and the conference center will be 40-50,000 sq ft. The projected building cost is $60 million and the projected water and sewer infrastructure cost is $1.1 million. Prinz adds that projected revenue will come from the sale of the residential property as well as from rental fees, concession sales, and taxes.
A management company has been brought onboard “helping us to design the building so that it can be selfsustainable.” Completion of the complex depends on permitting. Prinz says the project is at about 40% right now and the goal is to have it open and operational within the next two to three years.
For more information, visit www.jacksonvillenc.go v/953/UptownJacksonville-SportsEntertainment.
Images provided by the City of Jacksonville.
Networking Opportunities
Business Over Breakfast
Friday, April 17
8:30am-10am
Marine Federal Credit Union 4180 Western Blvd, Jacksonville
onslowbusiness.com/ business-over-breakfast/
Hosted by Onslow Business
Brainstorming / Networking
Monthly networking session for sales professionals in all types of business, sharing ideas and encouragement
Thursday, March 26, 5:30pm-7:30pm
Biagio’s Piazza (between Clove Hitch and Ransom Room)
Jacksonville
A Women Empowering Network (ANEW)
Thursdays from 9:30 to 10:30
Check their FB page for the current location https://www.facebook.com/ ANETWORKEMPOWERINGN ETWORK
Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce
All events are free. To register visit the Chamber’s website: topsailchamber.org/events
Coastal Masterminds
March 17, 4pm Chamber office
Note: WomenConnect attendees order from menus at their own expense.
WomenConnect in Sneads
Ferry
April 7, Noon
Rick’s Restaurant
WomenConnect in Hampstead
March 12, Noon
Nineteen Restaurant
Mornings with WomenConnect
March 26, 8:30am (Note new time)
Southern Roots Grill
Men’s Business Alliance
March 10, 8:30am Chamber office
Veteran Business Collective Chapter Meeting
Thursday, March 19 6:00pm-9:00pm Carolina Ale House, Jacksonville
Breakfast Meeting Friday, March 6, 8am Blend Café
veteransbusinesscollective.org/ chapters-events
Richlands Chamber of Commerce
Last Wednesday of each month at 9 a.m.
200 S. Wilmington Street www.richlandschamberofcom merce.com/
Swansboro Area Chamber of Commerce
Holds “networking events year-round, including our Business After Hours and General Membership Meetings held monthly.” swansborochamber.org/
Send your networking event information by March 27 to onslowbiz@wordsworking.net to be included in the April issue.
Professional Book Club
Extreme Ownership
Wednesday, March 11 10am-12noon
Bistro 1940 618 New Bridge St., Jacksonville
She Means Business Roundtable
Monday, March 30 10:30am 910 Coffee 1124 Henderson Dr, Jacksonville
InventHer Studio CEO Day
March 10, 10am-1pm
Photos, Bookkeeping, Business Coach, Marketing with the community
Free to InventHer Studio members, $20 for nonmembers
Hampstead Topsail, and Sneads Ferry Physical Therapy Celebrates 20 Years
By Tiffany Walker
Hampstead, Topsail, and Sneads Ferry Physical Therapy are proud to announce the celebration of its 20th anniversary, marking two decades of dedicated service to the local community.
Founded and operated by Rusty Walker, PT, DPT, OCS and Tiffany Walker, the clinic has grown from a shared vision into a trusted, small-town healthcare provider known for its friendly atmosphere, personalized care, and commitment to patient success. For 20 years, the clinic has helped individuals of all ages recover from injury, improve mobility, and return to active, healthy lives.
“Twenty years ago, we set out to create a place where patients would feel genuinely cared for and supported every step of their recovery,” said Rusty Walker, PT, DPT, OCS. “We are incredibly grateful to our patients, our staff, and this community for trusting us with
their care. It has been an honor to serve Hampstead, Topsail, and Sneads Ferry, and we look forward to many more years of helping our neighbors stay healthy and active.”
The clinic credits its longevity and success to the continued trust of its patients, the dedication of its staff, and the ongoing support of the local community.
Hampstead Topsail, and Sneads Ferry Physical Therapy remains committed to providing high-quality, compassionate physical therapy services and strengthening community wellness for years to come.
About Hampstead Topsail, and Sneads Ferry Physical Therapy
Founded in 2005, Hampstead Topsail Physical Therapy and Sneads Ferry Physical Therapy is a locally owned, family-operated clinic offering personalized
2026 Women Build Set to Begin
Submitted by Easton Bush Community Engagement Coordinator
Crystal Coast Habitat for Humanity
Crystal Coast Habitat for Humanity’s 2026 Women Build is set to begin this March, bringing women from across the community together to lead the construction of a safe, affordable home for a local family.
Women Build is a volunteerdriven initiative that empowers women to step onto the build site (no experience required) and work alongside Habitat staff and future homeowners. Build days will take place from March through August on Wednesdays and Saturdays, offering flexible opportunities for individuals and teams to get involved.
In addition to hands-on build days, Women Build will offer construction workshops designed to equip volunteers with practical skills and confidence before they step onto the site.
physical therapy services with a focus on patient-centered care.
Sneads Ferry PT 1072 NC 210 Suite D Sneads Ferry, NC 28460 (910) 327-0418 www.hampsteadpt.com/
Local businesses are encouraged to participate through the Adopt a Team sponsorship program. Companies can sponsor build days while receiving recognition through build site signage, volunteer t-shirts, social media shoutouts, invitations to the home dedication ceremony, and more.
Women Build 2026 offers a meaningful way for businesses and individuals alike to invest in affordable housing and strengthen the Onslow County community.
To learn more about volunteering or adopting a team, contact ebush.cchfh@gmail.com. habitatcrystalcoast.org/ women-build/
National Automotive Group Celebrates 50 Years of Service and Community in Onslow County
Submitted by National Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram
National Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram in Jacksonville celebrated its 50th anniversary on February 13. The dealership invited the community to join a milestone celebration honoring five decades of service, relationships, and community involvement.
The milestone marks a legacy that began on February 13, 1976, when legal documents were signed to form National Dodge Incorporated under founder Jim Moore. In 1981, Moore appointed Harry Brown as General Manager. Brown acquired the dealership in April 1986 and has helped guide its growth ever since.
Over time, National Dodge evolved into National Automotive Group, expanding to include additional franchises such as Volkswagen and Subaru. Today, the dealership operates as National Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram and employs nearly 100 team members, including many veterans from all branches of the United States Armed Forces.
As the business has grown, its commitment to the community has remained constant. Employees are encouraged to volunteer and support civic, religious, and charitable organizations, a culture that has helped define the dealership for five decades.
“Reaching 50 years is about far more than selling vehicles,” said Robbie Yates, the group’ s General Manager. “It’s about relationships, trust, and the responsibility we feel to give back to the community that has supported us for generations.”
Throughout the years, National Automotive has supported organizations and initiatives that reflect the values of the Jacksonville and Onslow County region, including the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, the Museum of the Marine, Salvation Army Angel Tree and Red Kettle campaigns, Toys for Tots, United Way CHEW!, and Wreaths Across America. The dealership also maintains active involvement
Business Movements
Relocations
A number of businesses are relocating this month. Among those moving are:
Finders Keepers
New address will be 2129 Lejeune Blvd, Jacksonville
InventHer Studio
New address will be 516 Court St Unit 200, Jacksonville
InventHer will become The Third Space and is introducing new membership structures.
State Farm (Tina Glover)
New address will be 510 Court St Unit 100, Jacksonville
NC Coast Host Annual Tourism Awards
Mike & Theresa Lowe, Owners of Mike’s Farm in Beulaville, were honored with the Southern Coast Award at the North Carolina Coast Host Annual Meeting in February.
The NC Coast Host Annual Tourism Awards were established to recognize those who have made a significant
with local chambers of commerce, Rotary clubs, schools, veterans organizations, and many local nonprofits.
A longtime advocate for community service, Harry Brown served as Chairman of the Board for the Jacksonville Onslow Chamber of Commerce, President of the Jacksonville Rotary Club, and represented the region as a North Carolina State Senator from 2005 through 2020. He currently serves on the UNC Board of Governors.
“Our community has always been at the center of who we are,” said Ryan Brown. “From supporting military families to helping local children and schools, giving back has never been an afterthought. It is simply part of how we do business.”
Local partners say the dealership’s commitment has been consistent and meaningful. “For decades, National Automotive Group has shown up for this
community in ways both big and small,” said Dave Burford of VFW Post 9133 in Jacksonville. Post Commander Michael Foye added “Their support has helped strengthen families, honor service members, and make real differences in people’s lives.”
As National Automotive Group celebrates 50 years, the team says the milestone is both a moment of gratitude and a promise for the future. “We are proud of our history and excited about the road ahead,” Robbie Yates said. “We look forward to continuing to serve this community for many years to come.”
impact on North Carolina’ s travel and tourism industry.
Mike’s Farm was established in 1986, when Mike and Theresa Lowe started the business with a modest dream and a field of Christmas trees. NC Coast Host says that “By transforming a generational farm into a year-round destination, the Lowes have set the gold standard for agritourism in our state.”
Gulfstream Steel President Pleads Guilty
Tom Rollins, President of Gulfstream Steel, a metal fabrication and manufacturing company in Holly Ridge,
pleaded guilty on Feb. 5 to a conspiracy to rig bids for maintenance, repair, and operations contracts affecting United States military installations, earning his company more than $8.5 million dollars in rigged procurements.
The US Department of Justice states that “Rollins pleaded guilty to one felony count of restraining trade by conspiring to rig bids, in violation of Section 1 of the Sherman Act. The maximum penalty for individuals is 10 years in prison and a $1 million criminal fine.”
Equity Funding Update: AI Is Making Venture Investing Bigger and Narrower
By Andrea Giska, SBTDC Equity Program Specialist
The U.S. venture capital market has become increasingly concentrated, largely driven by the rise of artificial intelligence. A relatively small number of companies now account for a disproportionate share of total deal value, while a shrinking group of funds represents a growing portion of closed commitments. In 2025, the U.S. venture market reached approximately $250 billion through Q3, with AI accounting for more than 65% of total deal value according to a recent report by PitchBook. While AI should not be viewed as a single, monolithic sector, this level of capital concentration underscores the scale of opportunity investors believe it represents.
This concentration is not limited to deal activity. New capital commitments have also become increasingly centralized. As venture firms move earlier in the company lifecycle and grow in fund size, capital has pooled into mega funds. Funds of $500 million or more now account for
nearly 58.7% of total dry powder, up from 39.9% a decade ago. In contrast, smaller funds, which remain the largest group by fund count, now control just 16% of available dry powder according to PitchBook (1). Together, these trends are reshaping both who receives capital and who controls it.
For founders operating outside core AI infrastructure and foundation model development, the implications are becoming increasingly clear, and increasingly challenging. Capital is not disappearing, but it is becoming more selective, more concentrated, and more riskaverse. As larger checks are deployed into fewer, perceived category-defining AI companies, fewer dollars remain available for earlystage experimentation, niche innovation, and non-AI sectors that historically benefited from broad-based venture diversification.
This shift is therefore altering fundraising dynamics in meaningful ways. Startups
outside AI are facing longer fundraising cycles, heightened expectations around near-term traction, and greater scrutiny of capital efficiency. At the same time, investors managing larger pools of capital and targeting higher ownership stakes may find it difficult to justify smaller investments in companies that do not fit a high-growth, platform-scale narrative, regardless of their long-term fundamentals.
Still, opportunity remains. Periods of capital concentration often create openings for alternative funding models and differentiated investment strategies. For founders, success in this environment increasingly depends on clarity of vision, disciplined execution, and a thoughtful approach to capital needs, raising only what is necessary
Dixon Business Alliance Seeking Business Partners
A recent survey conducted by the Kaufman Foundation found that “only 2 out of 10 students feel high school ‘very much’ has or will prepare them with skills to join the workforce right out of high school.”
Real-world experience enables students to develop a clearer understanding of what life will be like after high school while they are still in school.
To that end, the business community has come together to support and encourage the students at Dixon High School, as the Dixon Business Alliance (DBA).
The goal is to prepare high school students for that real world of work and business.
DBA’s mission is “To strengthen business and finance education at Dixon High School by building collaborative partnerships between local industry leaders, educators, parents, and students empowering the next generation of professionals through experiential learning, career exposure, and community connection.”
The DBA Advisory Board meets monthly to work on plans for projects and activities such as mock interviews, job shadowing, site visits, guest speakers, handson workshops, and career fairs.
DBA seeks individuals who want to be part of the unique
and partnering with investors who understand the nuances of their market.
Ultimately, AI is making venture investing bigger in headline numbers, but narrower in practice. Whether this concentration proves to be a temporary cycle or a lasting structural shift will shape not only the future of venture capital, but also which forms of innovation are able to reach scale in the decade ahead.
The SBTDC is here as a confidential, no-cost partner. Sometimes a fresh set of eyes (and a simple framework) is all it takes to turn next year into your strongest yet.
Contact the Wilmington SBTDC office at 910-962-3744 or uncw@sbtdc.org.
and meaningful opportunity to shape the future of business and finance education for Dixon High School students and who can participate as part of the Advisory Board or as a Business Partner.
The board meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 9am at the Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce.
Business Partners are needed to host job shadowing
students, conduct site visits, serve as guest speakers, and participate in mock interviews and career fairs.
For more information about becoming a member of the Advisory Board or participating as a Business Partner, contact Advisory Board Chair Pat Fontana at pat@words-working.net.
Consistency is Critical for a Growing Business
In 1985, Coca Cola decided it wanted to do something new and different. New Coke was born. Shortly after its launch, New Coke became one of the company ’s biggest failures.
In 2011, JC Penney decided it needed to change its sales strategy, from coupons to “everyday low prices.” Forbes reported in 2017 that “The company eliminated coupon discounts, changed the floor merchandise; and added boutiques/streets.” Loyal customers did not like the change in the least and left in droves.
These were big changes for big companies that resulted in big failures.
Even little things can impact a growing business, when it comes to consistency and expectations.
For example, branding must be consistent across the board. That means promotional
materials, logos, colors, social media pages, and everything associated with a business should be recognizable immediately.
The Nike Swoosh was designed in 1971 and is probably one of the most recognizable logos in the world today. Nike uses it consistently, to the point where their company name is no longer needed for customers to know them.
Another example in consistency that is critical to business growth, especially for a retail or food establishment, is to maintain regular hours that are clearly published.
When customers don’t know whether a store or restaurant is open at a certain hour or on a certain day, it gives the business a bad image.
Likewise, if the business continually changes its hours of operation, customers will grow frustrated at the
inconsistency. Everyone understands when emergencies arise or when a business might be suddenly short-staffed and have to close early or open late. Those should always be the exceptions, though.
Chick-fil-A is always closed on Sundays. Everyone knows what to expect from them.
One more example of consistency is the product line. When a business becomes known for a certain product, that enables it to build a solid and loyal customer base. Of course, creativity can inspire innovation or a new product line, but those should still be consistent with who the business is and who customers expect the business to be.
Fast food restaurants often attempt to expand their menu, offering variations of a staple they are known for among their customers. Sometimes,
though, their “variations” are a bit too far off the menu their customers have grown to love.
KFC once tried offering a hot dog wrapped in two pieces of chicken.
Taco Bell wanted to compete with McDonald’s fish sandwich and introduced a Seafood Salad to its menu.
Neither of these lasted very long.
A separate Forbes article states that “consistency is the bedrock of a positive customer experience. As human beings, we value and crave it because it promotes comfort, ease, familiarity, peace of mind, and trust.
”
Every business’s customer is a human being who wants that business to be consistent.
Genesis Block Foundation Hosts Inaugural Jacksonville Jumpstart Academy Demo Day
By Aariene Hansley, Genesis Block Foundation
Genesis Block Foundation is proud to announce the culmination of its inaugural Jacksonville Jumpstart Academy cohort, Team Out the Box, as the program wraps up its eight-week small business program in Onslow County.
Jumpstart Academy is an intensive entrepreneurship program designed to help small business owners validate and strengthen the foundation of their ventures. Through structured curriculum, mentorship, and real-time business application, founders focus on refining their customer strategy, revenue model, and operational capacity ensuring they are positioned for sustainable growth and market readiness.
The Jacksonville cohort marks Genesis Block Foundation’ s official expansion into Jacksonville, NC, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening the regional small business ecosystem.
The program concludes with Demo Day on March 5, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Jacksonville Station. Demo Day is a pitchstyle showcase where participating entrepreneurs present their validated business concepts and growth strategies to a panel of judges,
community leaders, partners, and supporters. The event serves as both a celebration of progress and a platform for increased visibility, partnership, and opportunity.
The following entrepreneurs make up the inaugural Jacksonville cohort:
● Sonya & James Davis, August Pastries
● Barbara Hofler, Barbara Jean Gifts and Things
● Brittany Rainey, Bee Originals LLC
● Edward Dowdy, Dowdy Hauling
● Lamar Moore, La’Moore
Media Versatility
● JaVae Ferguson, Maeve to Live
● Eddie Cleave, Radiant Pastures
As Genesis Block Foundation continues to expand its impact in Jacksonville, the organization welcomes community partners, sponsors, mentors, and supporters who are passionate about strengthening small business ownership in the region.
Applications are now open for the next Jacksonville cohort scheduled to begin in April.
Customized Strength & Mobility Workouts
Accountability That Sticks Book a Free Consult Amy Weglarz | 630-528-0071
Downtown Jacksonville
Interested entrepreneurs may apply at: https://zfrmz.com/ ya5tqocHUm9vVOLSl7RX
Community members interested in sponsorship, mentorship, or partnership opportunities are encouraged to connect.
For additional information about Jumpstart Academy or to attend Demo Day, please contact Genesis Block Foundation. https://genesisblockilm.com/ foundation/
Images provided by Genesis Block Foundation
Why Businesses Are Breaking Up With DIY Branding (And
Calling in the Pros Instead)
By Judi Maniscalco Owner, Southern Skies Print Design Photography LLC
Can you design your own logo in a DIY app? Sure. Can you also cut your own hair after watching three tutorials? Also sure. The real question is: should you?
Across North Carolina and beyond, more business owners are realizing that while self design apps can be a fantastic tool, DIY branding often looks DIY. Templates are convenient, but they rarely create the polished, unique, cohesive presence that attracts premium clients. That’s where professional design and branding companies come intreating branding not as a quick craft project, but as the visual backbone of your business.
DIY Apps Aren’t the ProblemStrategy Is the Missing Piece Canva, Adobe Express, etc., are great for social posts and quick flyers. But branding is more than picking a unique-to-you font and your favorite shade of blue. It’s positioning. It’ s clarity. It’s knowing exactly who you serve and how you want to be perceived. While businesses don’t need global agency budgets, they do need intentional thought and experience.
Branding experts begin with questions that matter: Who are you trying to attract? What makes you different? Are you
building a side hustle - or a legacy?
Templates don’t ask those questions. They just offer 400 font combinations and wish you luck often with misplaced, tiny type and a circus tent of colors.
The Template Trap
If you used a trending template, there’s a strong chance someone else nearby did too. Branding is meant to differentiate - not blend into a beige sea of sameness. When your logo feels familiar (and not in a good way), your brand can unintentionally look temporary.
And if you’re charging real money, that’s not the message you want to send. We have all seen companies with closely branded logos, color pallets and fonts - it isn’t by chance; it is by DIY design!
Premium Service Deserves Premium Presentation
Think about brands - huge, iconic brands. Their branding is consistent everywhere. That cohesion builds trust. Now picture a high-end consultant handing over a thin, pixelated business card. Even if they’ re excellent at what they do, something feels off - cheap, not complete and not trustworthy.
Your brand should reflect the quality of your work - lux stock, intentional typography, cohesive color, professional finishes. Because if your branding looks “budget,” clients may expect budget.
Printing Isn’t Just Clicking “Order”
Designing on a screen in RGB is not the same as printing in CMYK. Colors shift. Margins trim. Files fail. Fonts flounder. A professional firm experienced with the print industry ensures proper file setup, accurate color conversion, guidance on paper weights, finishes and print methods, specialty options like foil, embossing and soft-touch coatings. Paper weight matters. Finish matters. Details matter. A flimsy card feels forgettable. A substantial one feels established and reliable.
Consistency Is a Power Move
DIY brands often shift every few months - new fonts, new
Did you know that your ad in this space could be seen by almost 3,000 readers?
Advertising support enables those readers to pick up free copies throughout Onslow County and in several locations in Pender and New Hanover County!
Want
your
business to be seen?
Email onslowbiz@words-working.net to reserve your ad space for the April issue. Deadline is March 27.
Rates and sizes are listed at https://onslowbusiness.com/promote/.
shades, new layouts. Over time, that inconsistency weakens recognition. Professional branding builds a system that carries across signage, packaging, social media and print. Consistency builds trust. Trust builds loyalty. That’s not fluff. That’s psychology.
The Bottom Line
A DIY app is a useful tool. But it’s not a brand strategist. Branding isn’t decoration it’ s the silent ambassador of your business. It shapes perception before you say a word. DIY offers convenience. Professional branding offers confidence, cohesion and longevity. And if you’ re building something meant to last, your brand shouldn’t look like a template. Because your business isn’t one.
Contact Southern Skies Print Design Photography LLC at 973-932-2334.
March: Systems Over Mood
By Jessica Marshall Run It Right Business and Mindset Coaching
March carries a certain electricity. The air shifts. Windows open. Schedules fill. Energy rises but let’s be honest, it doesn’t rise evenly.
Some mornings you wake up ready to conquer the world. Other mornings, not so much. That’s why this month isn’t about chasing motivation. It’ s about honoring the present moment while leaning on something stronger than emotion. It’s about building systems that work for you whether you feel inspired or not.
When you’re fully present instead of stuck in yesterday’ s regret or tomorrow’ s pressure, you begin to see what actually needs to be done today. Systems give that clarity somewhere to land. They remove drama. They remove guesswork. They remove the exhausting negotiation you have with yourself every time you roll up your sleeves but are not sure where to put all of your effort.
As James Clear wisely said, “You don’t rise to the level of your goals; you fall to the level of your systems.”
That truth hits differently in March because this is a month of forward motion. And
forward motion without structure quickly turns into scattered energy. But forward motion with structure? That becomes momentum.
Systems are not rigid cages to lock yourself into each week. They are the scaffolding that helps to hold the weight of your business so you don’t have to carry it alone every day, week, or cycle.
When your week has rhythm, you can actually live inside your work instead of constantly reacting to it. When your tasks have a home then your mind is free to think creatively. When your processes are repeatable your confidence rises because you know what happens next.
That’ s presence. That’ s power. That’s peace in motion.
Admin Advice: Strengthen Your Foundations
• Anchor Weekly Tasks
Assign specific days to recurring responsibilities: reports, financial reviews, content updates, client checkins. Rhythm builds reliability. When Tuesday always means numbers and Thursday always means content, you remove decision fatigue. You show up and execute.
• Automate Reminders
Your brain is for strategy, not storage. Use digital tools to track deadlines and follow-ups. Calendar invites, automated emails, scheduled posts: all of these small systems protect your focus so you can stay engaged in the work directly in front of you.
• Create Templates Stop reinventing what already works. Client emails, onboarding steps, social captions, proposals build repeatable frameworks for what works for your business. Templates don’t reduce creativity; they protect it. They give you a stable base so your energy can go toward refinement and excellence instead of repetition.
• Review and Adjust A system is only powerful if it serves you. Schedule a short weekly review. What flowed? What felt disconnected? What took too long? Refine without
ego. If something isn’t working, improve it or remove it. Progress favors the adaptable.
March teaches a powerful lesson: structure creates freedom.
When your systems are strong, you don’t need to rely on willpower. You don’t need to wait for the perfect mood. You don’t need to micromanage every moving part. You simply show up. You work the plan. You stay present. And you allow steady, consistent action to compound.
Small refinements now build momentum that carries you through the rest of the year. Not in a frantic rush. But in calm, focused, intentional motion.
Contact Jessica at runitright.llc@gmail.com.
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Developing the "Civilian Voice" at Jacksonville Toastmasters
By Brian A. Vinciguerra
Onslow County is home to a robust population of military leaders who bring unparalleled discipline and experience to the local workforce. However, as these professionals transition into civilian careers, many face a common hurdle: evolving their communication style from military command to corporate influence.
In a military environment, authority is inherently defined by rank. In the civilian sector, leadership depends on the ability to build trust, persuade diverse audiences, and articulate a vision without relying on formal hierarchies or technical acronyms. To address this need, Jacksonville Toastmasters is highlighting its structured, practice-based environment designed to help veterans and business professionals alike master the art of influential communication.
"Leadership after the military requires more than experience it requires the ability to communicate clearly, engage diverse audiences, and articulate vision without relying on rank," says Jeff Porro, a proponent of professional communication development.
Practice, Not Lectures
Unlike traditional seminars, Jacksonville Toastmasters offers a hands-on approach to leadership development. The program focuses on:
• Active Participation: Strengthening public speaking through short, prepared presentations.
• Real-Time Feedback: Providing actionable, peer-led evaluations that mirror professional growth cycles.
• Skill Adaptation: Transitioning from "directing" to "engaging" to better lead civilian teams.
The club’s structured and time -efficient meeting format is specifically designed to respect the schedules of busy professionals and military personnel. By prioritizing progress over performance, the organization allows members to develop their "civilian voice" in a supportive, low-stakes environment.
Strengthening the Local Economy
The benefits of these refined skills extend to the broader Onslow County business community. Employers gain leaders who can reduce operational friction, improve team morale, and clearly communicate organizational goals.
By investing in communication early in the transition process, veterans ensure they remain as effective in the boardroom as they were in the field.
About Jacksonville Toastmasters
Jacksonville Toastmasters is a local chapter of Toastmasters
Public speaking is a critical skill for military and civilian roles.
(Photo Credit: Marine Sgt. Shares Military Experiences in "Why We Serve" Program)
International, a non-profit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. The Jacksonville chapter is dedicated to serving the unique needs of the Onslow County professional and military community.
For more information about meeting times or to attend as a guest, please visit our website: https://bit.ly/3LV8h9k or contact Brian Vinciguerra at vppr-3478 @toastmastersclubs.org.
North Carolina Community Colleges and UnitedHealthcare Announce Future Leaders in Health Scholarship Program
By Emily Ellis Coastal Carolina Community College
Coastal Carolina Community College proudly announces its participation in the UnitedHealthcare Future Leaders in Health Scholarship Program, a new statewide initiative designed to strengthen North Carolina’ s rural healthcare workforce and support the education of future healthcare professionals.
North Carolina continues to face a significant healthcare workforce shortage, with nearly three million residents living in areas lacking adequate access to medical providers. Rural counties experience the greatest challenges, often operating with half the number of healthcare professionals per capita compared to urban communities. By 2033, shortages are projected to exceed 12,500 registered nurses and 5,000 licensed practical nurses statewide.
To help address these critical gaps, UnitedHealthcare has invested $500,000 in a scholarship program that will support 400 community college students at thirty-five North Carolina Community Colleges, including Coastal
Carolina Community College. The program provides financial assistance to students pursuing short-term credentials and degrees in healthcare fields such as:
• Nurse Aide I (NA I)
• Nurse Aide II (NA II)
• Practical Nurse (PN)
• Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)
“At Coastal Carolina Community College, we witness every day the dedication our students bring to serving others,” said David L. Heatherly, President of Coastal Carolina Community College. “Our partnership with UnitedHealthcare strengthens that commitment by helping remove financial barriers such as tuition and transportation. Together, we are ensuring that our local healthcare providers have the skilled professionals upon which our community relies.”
This scholarship investment represents another milestone in UnitedHealthcare’s ongoing commitment to supporting healthcare access in rural North Carolina.
Deadline to register as an exhibitor is March 10. Space is limited and spots are filling up!
onslowbusiness.com/woman-ownedbusiness-expo/
Tuesday, March 24 4pm to 8pm
Sneads Ferry Community Center 126 Park Lane
“By investing in the Future Leaders in Health Scholarship Program, we are not only supporting the career aspirations of dedicated students but also ensuring that North Carolinians in rural and underserved areas have access to the high-quality, local care they deserve,” said Anita Bachmann, CEO, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of North Carolina.
state’s economy and the wellbeing of our citizens.” Applications will be available soon.
“This investment allows us to remove the financial barriers that often stand between a student and a healthcare career,” said Dr. Jeff Cox, President of the North Carolina Community College System. “It is a strategic investment in the future of our
Students interested in the UnitedHealthcare Future Leaders in Health Scholarship should contact:
Emily Ellis Executive Director College Foundation Office ellise@coastalcarolina.edu 910-938-6234
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to network, learn from experts, and enjoy breakfast!
onslowbusiness.com/business-over-breakfast/ Friday, April 17 8:30am to 10:00am
Marine Federal Credit Union 4180 Western Blvd, Jacksonville
Training Opportunities
Public Speaking
Think Fast - Speak ClearlyLead Boldly with Jacksonville Toastmasters Every Tuesday at 7pm Miller-Motte College 105 New Frontier Way Jacksonville 3478.toastmastersclubs.org/ directions
Coastal Carolina Community College Small Business Center coastalcarolina.edu/servicesand-support/servicescommunity/sbc/
Brand in a Box: Build Everything You Need with Canva + AI -Webinar
Wed, Mar 11 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Pedal to the Metal: How to Start a Mobile Food Business - Webinar
Tue, Mar 17 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM
AI for Small Business: ChatGPT & CopilotWebinar
Wed, Mar 18 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
How to Start a Nonprofit
Thu, Mar 19 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
James S. Melton Vocational Skills Center
Content Marketing: What’s Working NowWebinar
Tue, Mar 24 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Turn Your Passion into a Business on Etsy (Webinar)
Wed, Mar 25 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Boots to Business
Thu, Mar 26 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
2 sessions ending Fri, Mar 27
James S. Melton Vocational Skills Center
BNFAC - Email Marketing that Doesn’t Feel SalesyWebinar
Tue, Mar 31 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Please note: If you attend a session at the CCCC SBC, complete the follow-up survey. The survey helps the SBC staff tremendously as they plan future sessions and when they report their attendance for future funding.
SCORE Score.org
Business Backbone Series
Session I
Structure Before Scale
March 10, 2026 @ 11:00am
CST/12:00 pm EDT
Cost: $10.00
Duration: 120 minutes
Live Online Workshop
Session II
From Chaos to Control
March 17, 2026 @ 11:00am CDT/12:00 pm EDT
Cost: $10.00
Duration: 120 minutes
Live Online Workshop
Session III
From Interest to Revenue
March 24 , 2026 @ 11:00am CST
Cost: $10.00
Duration: 120 minutes
Live Online Workshop
How To Value the Business You Are Buying or Selling Webinar
March 9 | 1 PM
Learn how to analyze business potential so that you are able to define the optimal price when purchasing a business.
Cape Fear Community College Small Business Center
https://cfcc.edu/smallbusiness-center/
Welcome to Entrepreneurship
March 11 | 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
This in-person seminar will be held at the CFCC Small Business Center located at 402 N. Front Street, Building G, Classroom 101 A.
Send your training event info to onslowbiz@wordsworking.net.
Deadline is March 27 to be included in the April issue.
Irreverent Warriors “Using Humor and Camaraderie to Improve Mental Health ”
By Chris Rabassi
This is the second installment in a threepart series about my experiences hiking with Irreverent Warriors. I am not affiliated with the organization’ s leadership, and what follows reflects only my personal observations, opinions, and experiences.
Again, Irreverent Warriors’ mission is: “We bring veterans together, using humor and camaraderie, to improve mental health and prevent veteran suicide.” The organization was founded in 2015 by a U.S. Marine Corps captain after a Department of Veterans Affairs report revealed 22 veterans committing suicide each day. Please read the full history on the Irreverent Warriors website.
The first article, published in the February issue, focused on the mission’s opening line: “We bring veterans together.” This article addresses the second half, ”using humor and camaraderie to improve mental health.”
In the spirit of humor, you can’t talk about Irreverent Warriors without talking about the iconic silky shorts. Since it is the 21st century, I prompted an AI tool to give me a historical account of silkies. The result was accurate, detailed, and, frankly, a cure for insomnia. So instead, I offer my own completely non-factual, baseless, and proudly irreverent explanation.
Silky shorts belong to a long and illustrious lineage of questionable but unforgettable fashion choices. Togas. Pirate shirts. Ruffled 1970s tuxedo shirts. Spanx. Parachute pants. Push-up bras. Bell bottoms. Skinny jeans. Even the denim speedo.
Crafted from a mysterious, otherworldly 100 percent nylon, silkies are designed for function, durability, moisture-wicking, comfort, and something generously described as “fit.” On most hikes, I wear them with the same Irreverent Warriors T -shirt, forming an ensemble radiating
equal parts confidence and poor decision-making. For clarity, the denim speedo is not authorized for external use on hikes. I keep it around solely to instill intrigue, fear, and uncertainty among those who may see me at future events.
But silkies aren’t just a joke. They evoke nostalgia memories of physical training, shared suffering, and a time when discomfort was normal and camaraderie was unavoidable. Wearing them also creates a sense of vulnerability, which is a powerful equalizer.
I’ve experienced several indirect, lifechanging effects.
Humor on these hikes extends far beyond wardrobe choices. When veterans from different branches come together, trash talk is inevitable. Who has the toughest initial training? Who works the hardest? Who gets the most time off? These debates unfold constantly, loudly, and with great enthusiasm. None of it is malicious. All of it builds connection.
Then there’s the music. Every genre imaginable shows up on an Irreverent Warriors hike. Heavy metal blends into yacht rock, which gives way to country, rap, and everything in between. The hiking formation ends up sounding like a moving block party on whatever big-city party street you prefer. You don’t just hear the music you feel it coming from every direction.
Camaraderie ultimately comes from the hike itself. While these events are far slower than military training hikes and involve little to no weight, the core experience is familiar: a group coming together to face a challenge. For me, the toughest challenges have been environmental. The coldest hike I’ve done was in Jacksonville, North Carolina, in 2022. Temperatures stayed in the high 40s, and it rained the entire time. “If it ain’t raining, we ain’t training.” The hottest hike was later that same year in Pinehurst, North Carolina, pushing nearly 100 degrees with matching humidity. “Get some”. Nothing brings people together quite like shared suffering!
So how do humor and camaraderie translate into improved mental health? Beyond the immediate benefits of laughter, connection, and movement,
First, the hikes provide goals and destinations. I’m already planning my 2026 hikes and even looking ahead to the Normandy, France, hike in 2027. Second, they inspire healthier habits. Because of Irreverent Warriors, I started working out consistently again. By the time this is published, I’ll be approaching my 780th consecutive day of workouts at HOTWORX, including completing 22 workouts in 22 hours on February 22.
I also chose sobriety on October 1, 2023, and remain sober today. I’ve added hyperbaric oxygen therapy and regular cold plunges to my routine, and I credit all of these positive changes to my first step on an Irreverent Warriors hike.
If you have questions about my physical or mental health journey, I can be reached at rabassi.chris@gmail.com. Information about upcoming hikes can be found on Irreverent Warriors’ Instagram and Facebook pages. The upcoming hikes are:
11 April: IW Jacksonville
The popular Washington, D.C. Night Hike on March 28, 2026.
Sometimes healing doesn’t start in a clinic or a quiet room. Sometimes it starts with laughter, a pair of silkies, and a long walk with people who get it.
(NOTE: This series of articles has been submitted as a paid advertisement.)