Volume 4 Issue 19: Mar 14, 2025

Helo

Click on the cover image to flip through the entire issue.

Mar 20, 2025

Getting things done in Dunn: Nancy Blackman reflects on her career in supporting and funding small businesses in rural NC

Nancy Blackman. Photo provided by Blackman.In the landscape of regional rural economic development, Nancy J. Blackman stands out for providing financial opportunities to hundreds of small businesses and helping them to forge a path forward in uncerta ...

Mar 20, 2025

On a mission: Kaylynn Suarez is ready to engage with the community as the new executive director of the Fayetteville Dogwood Festival in 2025

PHOTO BY RAYMIE DAY PHOTOGRAPHY Kaylynn Suarez became executive director of the Fayetteville Dogwood Festival in December of 2024. Since then, she has outdone herself at every turn. But it’s not just all her experience, Suarez’s positive, go-get ...

Mar 20, 2025

Editor's note: "I'm Every Woman"

Happy Women’s History Month all! I hope you took some time to reflect on the important women in your life on International Women’s Day this past Saturday, March 8. I myself have had the unofficial theme song of the month “I’m Every Woman” by the irre ...

Ico insights

INSIGHTS

SPONSORS' CONTENT
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Luke Wheeler
Holmes Security Systems

Why are there so many camera trailers? A Smarter Way to Protect Construction Sites, Events & More

Posted May 12, 2026
Security threats do not wait for permanent infrastructure. Whether it is a construction site filled with valuable equipment, a large community event, a remote property, or a parking lot vulnerable to theft and vandalism, businesses and property owner
  ...read entire article
Mar 20, 2025

A perfect pitch: WBC at CEED hosts fourth annual HERPitch competition to launch Women's History Month

Left to Right: WBC Director Danice Langdon, HERPitch finalists Karla Jackson, Shatara Het Heru Bey, Anedra Walls, Miss North Carolina High School America 2025 Abigail Dries, HERPitch finalists Lonyae McCune, Tia Whittlesey and Yeniz Parton. Photos by ...


Ico insights

INSIGHTS

SPONSORS' CONTENT
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Understanding 1031 Exchanges: A Strategic Tool for Real Estate Investors

Ashley Barrett - CPA, Partner, TRP Sumner
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Putting mental health first: Inside Cape Fear Valley Health’s behavioral health system

John Bigger - Corporate Director of Behavioral Health, Sleep Medicine and Clinical Research, Cape Fear Valley Health
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What a Hospital TV Show Taught Me About the Technology We Never Think About

Madison Spangler - Digital Marketing & Campaigns Coordinator, Systel Business Equipment

In The Current Issue

Fulfilling community needs: Fayetteville dynamic duo built three businesses on a passion for food and community

After workshopping the idea for a new restaurant concept with a few regular customers, Brian and Staci decided to take a chance on Napkins, their first business and Brian’s first experience owning a restaurant.


226 The Warehouse: A space designed for every occasion

The venue features two levels, two fully stocked bars, audio-video systems including projectors, and lighting solutions, an in-house culinary team, lounge space, a bistro section and private rooms, a state-of-the-art DJ booth and on-site staff to hel


Catering from the heart: Family-owned Two Brothers Catering keeps community hearts and stomachs full

Brad and Kelley McLawhorn became business partners in 2001 when they first opened a restaurant on Reilly Road. Now, their highly praised catering company continues to impress community members with flexibility, quality and personalized service. Photo