Cape Fear Future

Dropout Prevention Coalition Issues First Newsletter

2012-01-11T11:07:00.000-08:00

The Dropout Prevention Coalition (DPC) was initiated in 2011 by the Watson School of Education with the goal of bringing together a broad audience, representing schools and various community organizations to help students stay and succeed in school across Southeastern NC.

Follow the link below to view the DPC's Newsletter:
http://www.uncw.edu/ed/dropout/documents/newsletter/Newsletter_Jan2012.pdf

Cape Fear Future releases new tri-county education brochure

2011-12-12T10:02:00.001-08:00

In the spring of 2011, representatives from Cape Fear Future and the Chamber Foundation (both initiatives of the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce) joined forces to assist the improvement of K-12 schools by raising awareness and support through marketing.

To our knowledge, no entities in the tri-county region (New Hanover, Brunswick, and Pender Counties) have produced a comprehensive regional annual report on our schools. The team felt strongly we should have documentation for distribution for both prospective and community residents/businesses. Therefore, the team connected with several school representatives and combed through local, state, and national data in an effort to consolidate school performance, statistics, and special programs.

The result of this effort is an up-to-date profile with relevant statistical information to be provided to corporate prospects, commercial and residential realtors and anyone looking at our school systems. Our first goal was to create a printed brochure, and the second is to create and expand educational materials on the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce website.

We are excited to announce the regional education brochure is complete! The team is currently seeking feedback on the content of the brochure and also entities that should receive the mailing for mass distribution in early 2012. Additional resources and statistics not included in the printed brochure will be provided on the new Wilmington Chamber of Commerce website when it is launched in February of 2012.

Please click on the link below to check out our new brochure:
http://www.wilmingtonchamber.org/customers/103102118203091/filemanager/Education_brochure_SF_for_website.pdf

Supporters launch Wilmington-area arts council

2011-12-08T11:49:00.000-08:00

"It's so nice," said painter Virginia Wright-Frierson, "to finally have something to celebrate."

She, along with more than 100 other artists, musicians, local officials and others, were on hand Wednesday night at the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce to celebrate the launch of the Wilmington area's new arts council.

Link to full StarNews article below:
http://www.starnewsonline.com/article/20111207/ENT/111209765?Title=Supporters-launch-Wilmington-area-arts-council

NC Science Festival

2011-11-09T08:46:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I had the great pleasure of meeting Jonathan Frederick, Director of the NC Science Festival, an initiative of the UNC Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. This celebration, from April 13th-29th, is the first statewide science festival in the nation. Jonathan and his team are engaging participants across the state to create, host, sponsor, etc. events.

Their goal is to make April be known as the “science month” in North Carolina. The Festival includes both traditional and funky events, from an open house to a kitchen chemistry event in a local restaurant. Companies and organizations can submit programs that are already going on, or they can create a new program for the week of the Festival. Their long-term vision for the Festival is to have 1 million people participating each year at events all over the state.

Based on the feedback from 2010 Event hosts, there are a number of improvements from last year. For example:

• Individual webpage url for your event.
• Improved calendar functionality allows people to find your event that much easier.
• Option to upload your own event photo or logo.
• Customizable event flyer available.
• News media release template available to promote your individual event.

For the 2010 Final Report, future goals, and additional details on the festival, please visit: www.ncsciencefestival.org

Not only is this a wonderful opportunity to showcase our region’s (among other municipalities across the state) many science related activities, but it also gives our area great exposure in terms of economic development as the activities take place right here at home, while still connecting us to the state at large.

If you have any resources/programs/contacts in mind, I urge you to pass them on to myself or the NC Science Festival organizers. I look forward to your participation!

Entrepreneurs show their stuff

2011-10-27T06:51:00.000-07:00

Students, entrepreneurs, business leaders, and potential investors all gathered Tuesday at the New Hanover County Executive Development Center, for another round of the UNCW Entrepreneurship Center’s highly anticipated Rocket Pitch Event. Five entrepreneurs showcased their novel products, ideas and business models in the hopes of generating investment and community/business support.

For the full story, please visit the Greater Wilmington Business Journal's article:
http://www.wilmingtonbiz.com/industry_news_details.php?id=2895

Goings-On About Wilmington

2011-10-14T14:16:00.000-07:00

I always love receiving a fresh publication of The New Yorker. I remember sitting with my sister when we were children flipping through my father’s magazines. We would cuddle up for hours, carefully examining those famous New Yorker covers and studying every cartoon, none of which I ever understood. My sister (beyond her years in both maturity and brains) would begin to giggle, as the meaning, which completely eluded me, would unhinge her. I would then roll over in stitches so she would think I actually understood the punchline.

Today, aside from the cartoons (which, to me, are now only occasionally a succession of non sequiturs) I find the real highlight of my New Yorker experience is always on page six: “Goings On About Town”, where theatre, nightlife, art, movies, and books galore are highlighted each week. I can almost imagine being in the midst of the great city, watching young bohemians as they make their way through the Meat Packing District; running to some avant-garde theatre production on W. 47th Street; sipping a gin martini with a twist at a swanky new bar exploding with the sound of a new indie underground band...but then, this is only glossy paper and print…a magazine...

While I do enjoy this indulgence, there really is no need for me to surf the pages written about the boroughs of NYC, because I reside in my beloved Wilmington…and I’m pleased as punch. The fact is, our region’s quality of life is unparalleled…from a Downtown Riverfront peppered with historical homes and trendy boutiques to the picturesque beaches with coastal cottages and bros catching waves. We truly have it made. And it’s the people here that make it. There is a small town feel, but a big town heart—cultural happenings abound. We too have a page six, and our goings-on are most certainly magazine worthy.

There is always a new restaurant opening, a new entrepreneurial venture, a new community group, or a new art exhibit cropping up. This is what I love about my work with Cape Fear Future…I am afforded the luxury of being in the midst of it all—from education and entrepreneurship to quality of life, there is always something new to discover and explore here in Wilmington.

There is a deep passion in our community for the improvement/availability of even more goings-on, a direct byproduct of economic and community development. With this passion can come community fragmentation, which is not uncommon when it comes to economic development, especially when competing in a global marketplace and depressed economy. Many cities across the nation clumsily falter as they strive to determine a focus and direction for sustainable job growth and the expansion of arts and cultural amenities. Our region is not immune to such fragmentation…we are still finding our footing.

While not always in agreement over those small and large treasures we need to emphasize or those aspects of Wilmington we need to improve, our town is rich in forward thinkers and numerous groups, who work effortlessly to improve both quality of life and business development. They are a gift to Wilmington and to each other because of the discussions they generate. They come together to think, to bounce ideas off one another, to extrapolate and motivate through lively, intellectual, progressive conversations. They move Wilmington, forward into what CFF and others imagine for us all.

As such, part of CFF’s role is to bring groups together, shape what economic and community development mean for our region, and help tell the story of our Port City.

The last page of each New Yorker features a weekly "Cartoon Caption Contest" with captionless cartoons. Captions are submitted by readers, three are chosen as finalists, and readers then vote on the winner. Wouldn’t it be nice if regional transformation was that easy?

Obviously, the evolution of our business and community sectors is no laughing matter. But, similar to these cartoons, the future of Wilmington and the direction of economic development is an incomplete canvas, awaiting the brush strokes of the community’s vision.

To that point, we must be more than just a vision…we must execute tenacity and continue to set the bar for great cities.

New Hanover County Schools Transition Fair

2011-09-12T08:20:00.000-07:00

On October 26, 2011, the New Hanover County Schools Transition Advisory Team will sponsor a Transition Fair entitled, “WHATS NEXT IN YOUR LIFE”. This fair is for any student enrolled in grades 10-12 that is receiving some kind of special support services at school.

The goals of this event are to:

•Provide our students with entry level employment information about opportunities in the greater Wilmington area.
•Provide our students with Post-Secondary educational information and regional options.
•Provide our students with an opportunity to interact and ask questions of area service providers.

The WHATS NEXT IN YOUR LIFE, transition fair will begin promptly at 9:30 AM in the Dale K. Spencer Building and will conclude at 7:30 PM with a break from 2:30PM- 5:30 PM. The team anticipates that approximately 500 students will be in attendance.

If you would be interested in setting up a booth at the Dale K. Spencer building for the purpose of providing information to our students and answering questions about your business, please contact Betsy Stanwood by September 29th, 2011: email at betsy.stanwood@nhcs.net or call at 910.254.4466.

Thank you for your support!

2011-09-07T12:29:00.000-07:00

We are pleased to announce a new partnership between the UNCW Watson School of Education and Cape Fear Future to promote the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) for K-12 students.

Together, WSE and CFF have developed a website of STEM programs offered in the region. This resource provides a listing of camps, field trips, after-school programs, contests, learning resources, and places to visit for STEM-related activities. We hope the STEM Resource will help facilitate teacher/parent access to STEM programs and resources, and increase student participation in STEM programs.

Please visit the new site at: http://www.uncw.edu/ed/stem/

We hope you will find the STEM Resource helpful, and help us share the link with teachers and parents in our region!

UNCW Entrepreneurship Center Presents: 2011 Economic Outlook Conference

2011-08-16T06:37:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again! The UNCW Entrepreneurship Center is hosting their annual Economic Outlook Conference on October 11, 2011. As the theme will be focused on global trade and regional growth in Southeastern NC, this will be an event you won’t want to miss!

More details coming soon… www.uncw.edu/eoc

For more info on the EC, check out: http://uncwec.org/

Cucalorus Film Festival Calls for Volunteers

2011-08-03T14:06:00.000-07:00

The infamous Cucalorus Film Festival returns for its 17th year!

The Cucalorus team needs dedicated volunteers to join in the fun! The initial volunteer meeting will be an open house held at Jengo's Playhouse August 25th from 3-7pm. Volunteers are needed for screening, box office and technical departments.

For more information, please visit the volunteer open house facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=259397314085939

If you would like more information on events, involvement, membership, sponsorships, and more visit:
http://www.cucalorus.org/

Successful Education Program May Be Cancelled Due to State Funding Cuts

2011-07-20T09:43:00.000-07:00

"Making my way from a trailer park to Yale could not have been possible without Summer Ventures," stated Garry Reeder, a participant in a previous UNCW Summer Ventures program. One couldn’t ask for a more glowing endorsement for a program, right? But now that program is in jeopardy of being cancelled.

The 25th Annual Summer Ventures 2011 at UNCW got underway Monday, June 27th and will wrap up Saturday, July 23, possibly for the last time due to state budget cuts. UNCW is one of five NC universities to host Summer Ventures in Science and Mathematics (SVSM) Institutes administered by the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics (NCSSM). SVSM is a cost-free, state-funded program for academically talented students who may pursue careers based in science and mathematics.

The 4-week course of intensive study is led by university faculty and master high school teachers. The program brings rising juniors and seniors together in residential settings for four weeks of intensive study with courses designed to provide experience in scientific inquiry and mathematical problem solving. As a merit-based program, Summer Ventures is free to participating students.

"I still count that summer at UNCW as one of the most important experiences of my life,” said Robert Leandro, another UNCW SVSM participant. “Studying marine biology at SVSM opened up a whole new world of possibilities for me."

Despite this long track record of success, it's likely that 2011 will be the last year of Summer Ventures at UNCW - unless we can find a way to save it! Cape Fear Future encourages you to spread the importance of this program as it encourages and rewards high performing students while simultaneously preparing them in workforce development.

As a program serving "the best and the brightest", Summer Ventures is an investment in North Carolina's future. It's a program that should be showcased as a model of success and expanded, not eliminated. I hope you'll join our efforts to save Summer Ventures by sharing this information with others or by contacting Karen Shafer, Director, UNCW Science and Mathematics Education Center at 910-962-3168 (email: shaferk@uncw.edu) or Dr. Gabriel Lugo, Summer Ventures' Faculty Coordinator at 910-962-3246 (email: lugo@uncw.edu) to see how you can help.

What to do Downtown

2011-06-23T07:40:00.000-07:00

Community leaders tackle downtown issues

UNCW Entrepreneurship Center Hosts ENOV8T 2011

2011-06-03T07:06:00.000-07:00

Jonathan Rowe, director of the UNCW Entrepreneurship Center and Fran Scarlett, regional director of the UNCW Small Business & Technology Development Center will act as program directors for this year's ENOV8T. High school students are encouraged to attend this exciting event to learn more about entrepreneurship, leadership, team building skills, and starting a new business.

For additonal information and registration, see the UNCW Entrepreneurship Center Website:
http://uncwec.org/programs/enov8t/

Editorial - A new push could make Riverfront Park a star attraction

2011-06-02T10:38:00.000-07:00

Wilmington's Riverwalk is one of the most relaxing ways to while away a lazy afternoon downtown. Now it's time to spruce up Riverfront Park. And thanks to the interest of a community group and a languishing federal grant, that may happen soon.

For full StarNews article see link below:
http://www.starnewsonline.com/article/20110601/ARTICLES/110609957/1108/editorial?p=all&tc=pgall&tc=ar

New urbanism may offer some answers for region's future

2011-05-31T09:17:00.000-07:00

New urbanism may offer some answers for region's future

Council Approves Grant and Riverfront Gets Green

2011-05-18T08:51:00.001-07:00

On Tuesday, May 17, Wilmington City Council unanimously passed a Resolution of Endorsement and an Ordinance for Appropriating Funds for a Housing and Urban Development EDI (Economic Development Initiatives) Park Grant. These funds were awarded in 2007 with the intent that it be used for the development of a park in the parking lot adjacent to Thalian Hall. Over time this plan was abandoned and the funds were never re-designated. A new park project was needed…but years later, nothing had taken the place of the original plan.

Here’s the catch. If the funds aren’t used by December 31, 2011, the City loses the grant which amounts to $247,500. With the deadline looming, CFF Leaders contacted the City of Wilmington to inquire how those funds were being used and what we could do to push a proposal forward.

The Downtown Task Force, including Cape Fear Future, Wilmington Downtown Inc, City staff, and the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce came together to discuss the grant and eventually proposed a conceptual three phase plan for expanding and enhancing the riverfront park at the intersection of Market and Water Streets. The first phase would include the redevelopment of the City of Wilmington’s riverfront sub parcels extending from the Visitor Center kiosk to the northern boundary of the current Riverfront Park. If renovated with a unique and environmentally sensitive design, this area could serve as an inviting open space conducive to an array of events for public enjoyment.

The second phase proposes the renewal of the twenty-year license agreement between the U.S. Coast Guard and the City of Wilmington. The third and final phase includes the Wilmington Hilton’s southern parking lot, which could be exchanged for the Water Street Parking Deck across the street.

With regards to the grant, a second catch cropped up…only 20% of the $247,500 grant ($49,500) can be used for the required environmental assessment and park design. As such, it was recommended the initial environmental and park design focus on Phase I, and if additional funds remain following the assessment and design of Phase I, they be focused on the design of Phases II and III.

Ideally, all three phases will be included. 3.5 acres of riverfront park space will leverage economic development by being a destination park that emphasizes the cultural history of downtown Wilmington. It will also increase downtown residential density by serving as an active open space for live performances, family activities, and community events. The park will also serve as a unique facility for public events due to its proximity to local and state government administrative offices, the New Hanover County Courthouse, the river, and any proposed mixed use private development of the Water Street Deck.

I’ve mentioned it before: studies overwhelmingly show that parks act as incredible economic drivers. Real estate values, property taxes, and residential development increase; there is a greater opportunity for business attraction and retention; and the rate of tourism and degree of recreation is augmented. Finally, parks and outdoor green space stimulate the creative economy as creative/knowledge workers choose a place to live first before a job. Research shows that these higher wage earners highly value parks, open space, and cultural arts. If we improve the quality of life in this community, we are better positioned to attract and retain knowledge workers, which in turn generate investment back into the local community and spurs economic growth.

Finally, and most importantly, there is tremendous support from the local citizenship for a public park. In May 2006, the residents of Wilmington and New Hanover County passed a $35.5 million bond referendum to expand parks, green space and cultural facilities throughout the Cape Fear region.

Tip of the hat to Council and the Downtown Task Force who worked long and hard to push this through. Now let’s go get our park.

Cape Fear Economic Development Council hosts Congress for New Urbanism President/CEO John Norquist

2011-05-09T11:40:00.000-07:00

John Norquist, President/CEO of the Congress for the New Urbanism, will appear in Wilmington May 19-20, sponsored by the Cape Fear Economic Development Council. Norquist’s visit is part of the CFEDC’s effort to advance the goal of place-making as an economic development tool.

Norquist’s visit follows author’s Richard Florida’s recent visit to the Port City. While here, Florida outlined The New Economy principles that nurture The “Creative Class,” requiring a high performance education system, a robust cultural environment and beautiful, healthy and functional places to live, work and play. A former Wisconsin state legislator and the former mayor of Milwaukee, Norquist will work with the CFEDC to help translate the Creative Class vision into tangible steps for transforming the regional economy through the power of place.

To register please visit:
http://capefearedc.org/sponsor-an-event/

For more information and/or sponsorship opporunities please contact:
Elise Rocks
CFEDC Board Chair
910) 620.9224

Safety First. Then Teamwork: New Hanover County ABC Board Approves Cooperative Agreement to Strengthen Public Safety in the Port City

2011-05-05T08:48:00.001-07:00

Last week, the New Hanover County Alcoholic Beverage Control Board announced they will be training two local Wilmington police officers in ABC law enforcement. The vibrant downtown nightlife has prompted local officials and community members to seek alternative strategies in addressing public safety, especially as summer approaches and alcohol-related offenses increase.

Officers receiving ABC training will be allowed to enter bars whereas before they were not permitted inside unless invited. While there are a considerable number of incidences reported outside the bars and nightclubs, many of the altercations begin before anyone exits. By granting police access in bars, it is likely they will be able to cut down on underage drinking and alcohol-induced altercations.

Cape Fear Future has organized and participated in discussions on this issue since the fall of 2010. CFF representatives have met with several downtown groups, business leaders, community members, police officers, city officials, and state representatives. One of the biggest issues at the forefront of CFF discussions are constrained county and city budgets; but altering budget allocations at a time when all public services are suffering is a difficult task. Creative approaches using already available resources is a more viable option.

CFF has combed through countless crime statistics that overwhelmingly show the crime per capita is highest downtown. Interestingly enough, WPD data shows that for 20 to 21 hours of every day, there is actually very little violent crime. The vibrant downtown that many know and love is usually a safe place for all to enjoy. However, downtown changes drastically around 10 pm to bar closing time, especially on the weekends. There are hundreds of people exiting bars, hailing cabs, walking to their cars or socializing, many of whom are alcohol-impaired. This is when tempers flare and the violent behavior occurs. But even then, a larger problem than violent crime is maintaining order.

The CFF Foundation Board continues to encourage and support the cross-swearing of local police and ABC law enforcement. This is a progressive step forward in strengthening public safety and the overall quality of life in our region.

Tooth Fairies, Wolf Beer and Derivatives Trading…Just Another Night at the E-Center

2011-04-26T13:49:00.000-07:00

Jonathan Rowe and his dedicated crew have done it again. Six young and innovative companies made their pitch at the UNCW Entrepreneurship Center’s latest Rocket Pitch Event. Attendees were captured by the incredible products and business plans presented as they munched on goodies and sipped on locally brewed beer. Ranging from high-tech derivative trading to contract micro-beer brewing to tooth fairy entertainment for children, these entrepreneurs are tapping into real markets with real demand.

Over 26 companies have presented since the Rocket Pitch Event program began. As an individual who’s career revolves around economic development and entrepreneurship, these events are always especially exciting. Each business represented an aspect of the type of knowledge-sector companies Cape Fear Future is trying to attract, grow, and retain. The creativity, hard work, and professionalism of these start-ups was inspiring. It was evident that each was born of ingenuity and courage.

The Entrepreneurship Center is a true asset to this region- it is impressive that this Center is able to bring together angel investors, entrepreneurs, media, business owners, students, and many more in the same room. These events are just one of many offered by the E-Center in helping regional business growth, and I am certain it will continue to be an archetypal platform for other entrepreneurial programs across the state.

For details on the featured companies and to access their individual websites please visit:
http://uncwec.org/2011/04/rocket-pitch-companies-unveiled-2/

Red Light - Green Light

2011-04-13T12:10:00.000-07:00

How to Play:

The player designated as "It" stands a good distance away from the rest of the kids, with his back turned to the rest of the group. He calls, "Green Light!" and the children run toward him until he says, "Red Light.” "It" turns around and tries to catch anyone who is moving. If he sees someone moving, that person must go back to the start line. Play continues until someone runs up and tags “It”.

I have fond memories of playing this game on hot summer days with my siblings…back then it didn’t mean much more to me than just being a game. But now I see that it teaches children the significance of simple traffic signals and how to obey the rules while having fun. But those who crafted Senate Bill 187 have apparently forgotten this simple game and the lessons it taught.

Senate Bill 187 is an act to make the use of photographic camera systems to regulate traffic unlawful. If passed, this bill will eliminate the use of all red light cameras in the state. It has already been passed through the Senate Transportation Committee and will be up for vote in the House in the coming weeks.

There are two glaring reasons Cape Fear Future opposes this bill. Currently, the fine money generated from the red light camera system goes toward camera operational costs and NC schools. At our last Commission meeting, superintendents from the tri-county area were able to provide insight into the constrained framework our educators have to work within. This is further exacerbated by budget cuts that have been made at both the state and local levels.

As if another cut to school funding is not motive enough to oppose the bill, Wilmington has seen a great reduction in traffic accidents in those intersections where the red light cameras are in place. According to the NC Department of Transportation, in 2008, Wilmington ranked number one for car crashes compared to other cities with populations of 10,000 or more.

This staggering statistic illustrates the need for traffic cameras in places like Wilmington that have a high incidence of traffic accidents. A study conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found the cameras save lives and prevent crashes in intersections.

So you are running through a red light...the camera catches you. You should have stopped but you didn't. You were caught in the act. That is the same premise as Red Light-Green Light, an old fashioned children’s' game...why shouldn’t you pay a fine?

Unfortunately, this issue isn’t as simple as playing a childhood game….but we will be covering our eyes and turning our backs if we don't stop the red light legislation that affects children's education. We have a responsibility to see that everyone follows the rules.

Because these cameras help “patrol” intersections, police can focus on other priorities, and the schools get much-needed funding. With our efforts to improve region’s K-12 school systems and quality of life, Cape Fear Future opposes passage of this bill. Please reach out to our representatives in the North Carolina House and educate them on the implications…and let’s send Senate Bill 187 back to the starting line.

Please see the link below for a list of the NC House of Representatives Members. Click on the Representative’s name and you will be able to access their contact information.

http://www.ncga.state.nc.us/gascripts/members/memberList.pl?sChamber=House

Make a pledge of financial support for a new Arts Council for Wilmington and New Hanover County

2011-04-12T12:20:00.000-07:00

Cape Fear Future supports the creation of an arts council in Wilmington and New Hanover County to expand arts-driven economic development, to cultivate and sustain artists and arts organizations in our community and to enhance the quality of life for our citizens.

The Steering Committee established to create an arts council for Wilmington and New Hanover County believes that the best foundation for an arts council is a public/private partnership made up of government support from local, state and federal sources, and private support from businesses, individuals and foundations. The steering committee is currently seeking support from local government sources and believes private sector pledges may help leverage that support.

In order to demonstrate a strong level of commitment from the private sector, we are asking our business members to join us in pledging their financial support for an arts council by April 30th. You will be only be asked to fulfill your pledge if funding is secured from local government sources by September 1, 2011.

Thank you for your pledge of support for the Arts Council of Wilmington and New Hanover County, a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization. Contributions are tax-deductible as allowed by law.

Please see the link below to make a pledge:

http://www.wilmingtonchamber.org/supportanewartscouncil.html

Cape Fear Future Hosts First Commission Meeting of the Year

2011-04-07T06:06:00.000-07:00

This Wednesday, the Cape Fear Future Foundation Board hosted the first Cape Fear Future Commission meeting of 2011.

The three school superintendents from the tri-county area participated in a panel discussion: Ms. Allison Sholar of Pender, Dr. Tim Markley of New Hanover, and Dr. Edward Pruden of Brunswick. The moderated discussion was led by John Gizdic, Vice President of New Hanover Regional Medical Center and team leader for Cape Fear Future’s Education Task Force. This team is focused on supporting our region’s K-12 school systems and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) proficiency. Therefore, the goal of this summit was to gain a better understanding of the challenges, strengths, and opportunities facing our schools and what the business community can do to help improve school performance.

A range of topics were covered in an attempt to educate the Commission and invited guests, while also engaging their participation and analysis of school performance. The meeting began with an overview of the three school systems and the current challenges they face. While they all confront a range of encumbrances, two main areas were identified: the shrinking federal, state, and local budgets which drastically reduce resources and also the challenge in keeping our kids in school.

Public schools are held accountable to both federal and state standards which leaves little flexibility. However, our regions’ schools have implemented a range of programs to better monitor individual student performance and overall graduation rates. The foundation of these school systems are strong; nonetheless, there is always room for improvement and, with reduced resources and personnel, it is challenging. Part of the meeting was dedicated to covering these programs and subsequent performance metrics, but the core of the meeting called on the business community’s input.

Dr. Tim Markley made an illuminating point: schools do not operate like businesses because when schools have a budget shortfall they still have kids coming through the door that they have to provide for. Therefore, the business community’s participation is a viable and valuable strategy that can help supplement this hindrance.

So what did the panel suggest businesses do? They welcomed the idea of summer internships for students and teachers in an effort to provide them a real-world view of life after high school. These internships would also help students understand the connection between their studies and their post graduate careers. Mentorships are also needed at all levels. Many children do not have the background or support they need to do well in school and these types of partnerships help fill that gap. Another recommendation was for business people to meet with principals and teachers to talk about best management and leadership practices. The panelists also expressed the need for outside individuals to actually visit the schools so they can get a better understanding of the framework in which the administration must operate.

The superintendents also cited current successful partnerships that they would like to see duplicated. For example, GE has had a long-term presence at Rachel Freeman School of Engineering where dozens of volunteers work with the students, coaching them on how math and science are used in their professions.

Williston Middle School is going to launch a pilot iPad program which will allow new opportunities for growth in education through technology, while supporting the utilization of 21st century technology. In Brunswick County, they will be using federal funds from Race to the Top to implement Project Lead the Way, a STEM education curriculum for middle and high schools. Pender County has several STEM programs in place as well, and they are currently expanding and improving their technology infrastructure by going wireless.

As the Cape Fear Future Education Team’s goal is to support K-12 education with a focus on STEM, the aforementioned programs should be highlighted and expanded to all schools. The next step will be a call for action to engage and partner the business community with our schools so we can provide our children and future workforce with the academic and communicative skills necessary to compete in our now global economy.

Education and quality of life are fundamental pillars of our community. The business community’s participation was vital to this discussion as they identify workforce preparation needs. The CFF team strongly believes a partnership between the business community and our schools systems is key for the improvement of our students’ education, future workforce skills, and economic development as a whole.

See the following link for the StarNews article:
http://www.starnewsonline.com/article/20110406/ARTICLES/110409784/1020/news01?Title=Region-s-three-school-chiefs-look-to-future&tc=ar

U.S. Representative Mike McIntyre Hosts Job Creation Summit at CFCC

2011-03-31T10:58:00.000-07:00

Jobs. Jobs. Jobs. That was the buzz at the Job Creation Summit hosted by U.S. Representative Mike McIntyre at Cape Fear Community College on Tuesday. The forum focused on how Southeastern North Carolina can bring together partners from public, private, and educational institutions to improve workforce development, business recruitment, and job creation.

Several heavy hitters were there to educate the attendees, including: NC Secretary of Commerce Keith Crisco, Executive Director of the BRAC Regional Task Force Greg Taylor, U.S. Department of Labor Regional Representative Robert Asaro-Angelo, Assistant Secretary for Vocational and Adult Education at the U.S. Department of Education Dr. Brenda Dann-Messier, and Senior Advisor and Director of Strategic Initiatives of the U.S. Department of Commerce Barry E.A. Johnson.

The featured panelists echoed President Obama’s call for Americans to “out-innovate, out-educate and out-build the rest of the world.” This call for action has become increasingly relevant as we are in a conceptual age where economic development is becoming more and more competitive. Regions aren’t just competing against each other anymore, now nations are...and the United States is falling behind. Look at your tricked out iPhone or Blackberry…bet it ain’t made in America.

While the two-hour summit covered a range of issues, there were two themes unanimously emphasized.

The first was higher education. A staggering 27% of students in the U.S. are high school drop outs. This is at a time where the majority of the workforce must be highly educated and highly skilled. At the federal level, leadership has responded by creating an action plan to boost college graduation rates. President Obama has even gone as far to challenge every single American to get more than a high school education, even if it is just one additional course in higher education. This is undoubtedly in response to two issues: the global achievement gap where the U.S. is tied for 9th place for college completion for 25-34 year olds, and second being the need for students/graduates to learn those skills needed in the knowledge based workforce.

The second theme was the unveiling of a new economic development framework for regions across the nation. Panelists also provided a range of tools at the federal level used to implement this strategy. While the federal government cannot lead the private sector, it can provide support and nurture ideas that come out of business and community convening. The top-down role they play is advancing a common framework- the feds have incredible resources and can play a role in presenting and encouraging frameworks that work.

So what is that strategy? Regionally led economic development.

I realize this doesn’t sound necessarily groundbreaking as most regions have economic development boards, councils, and departments in place. However, this strategy is focused on a ground-up approach rather than the top-down fads that are often adopted in an effort to keep pace.

The panelists suggest local leaders better align their individual workforce system by providing training programs that specifically meet regional workforce sector needs. It becomes dangerous when regions focus on the new cool industry because more often than not, they aren’t positioned to effectively carry them out—let’s get real, not everyone can have a booming nanotechnology industry.

Most regions have a prevailing industry, asset, and particular opportunity for growth… therefore, regions must pursue economic development initiatives that value the unique strengths of that individual area.

A number of strategies were provided, but one of particular interest was the Regional Innovation Clusters Model (RICs). They are geographic concentrations of firms and industries that do business with each other and have common needs for talent, technology, and infrastructure. This new framework leverages core regional strengths by coordinating and synchronizing workforce development efforts like business training, counseling, mentoring, commercialization and technology transfer services. This way, there is a consistency and a common goal. Graduates and others looking for work have a better chance of finding the training and resources they need to get a job…a job in the region they live nonetheless.

In closing, we realize we must have the best trained, educated, and skilled workforce to compete in the global economy. A daunting task, right? Fortunately, the panelists presented an array of federal resources and toolkits to help assist regions as embark on their economic development journeys.

We all too often get stuck on what we think we aren’t. But the main takeaway here is the importance of focusing on the Cape Fear Region’s assets and building on them. We have the ports. We have film. We have tourism. We have beaches. We have a downtown riverfront. We have biotech. We have military. We have arts. We have colleges. Most importantly, we have a southern-hospitality-beach-minded vibe that is unrivaled. We are a unique area brimming with potential for incredible job creation…

Carpe diem.

Catching the Entrepreneurial Wave

2011-03-22T10:09:00.001-07:00

For many young professionals in Wilmington, suitable work is hard to come by…but the quality of life is too good to prompt them to move. This makes a compelling case for entrepreneurship. If you can’t find a job in the place you love, create your own! Take Mickey Anglemyer, a Cape Fear Community College graduate who recently launched Mickey June Surfboards, a design company that makes custom surfboard art for young groms up to seasoned surfers.

After putting herself through college, Mickey was saddled with student loans. With an associates in art and design, she was worried there was no profitability in art… so she decided she needed to do something more mainstream and marketable like graphic design—“something that fit the mold …a 9 to 5 kind of thing”.

Graphic design positions were difficult to find in the Cape Fear region so she reluctantly moved to Raleigh where she landed an internship creating images, logos, websites, and screen printing. But Mickey says she was always more attracted to the creative and artistic side of the visual communication company and not the production and processing pieces.

“I like the feeling of working with my hands. I never felt like I could create what was in my head on the computer…it is too rigid, too structured. My vision is too organic and my style is the thing that will make me successful.”

After spending a few months in graphic design, Mickey switched gears. It all started when she decided to paint a psychedelic scene on her boyfriend’s surfboard for his birthday. Upon completion, she was pretty impressed with the product and knew that with the robust surfing community in the Wilmington area, there was serious potential for her designs.

“I wanted the freedom to create what I see. Surfboards are something I’m naturally drawn to because of the lifestyle, the youth, the colors, and the shape. The Greeks used to paint pots with sea creatures according to the shape of the vase. It seems like common sense but there are very few instances where you can do that. You can create a painting that is made for the shape and size of that particular board—it’s like giving it a face or a personality. The more research I did on surfboard art the more it became abundantly clear there isn’t much out there on the East Coast. It’s hard to find an artist that has really done it and built the brand.”

Mickey has tapped into a unique niche and is seeing no shortage of orders. With an extensive network in Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach, boards are floating in left and right. While business is booming, Mickey is looking to grow her brand and formally create a startup…but she needs help.

Her story is one of many. College students are increasingly encouraged to think more entrepreneurially across all disciplines as our workforce and market demand is constantly changing. Securing a job these days isn’t easy, but as studies show college graduates are likely to choose a location before a job, it isn’t surprising that entrepreneurial ventures are on the rise.

Luckily, Wilmington is home to the UNCW Entrepreneurship Center, which is able to provide the financial and business guidance needed by young entrepreneurs. Institutions like this one are vital to economic development in our region. Entrepreneurs like Anglemyer have a vision and have a specific target market. But without support from the experts it is difficult to secure capital, launch a marketing campaign, find work space, file legal status, generate a stable revenue stream, and quite frankly, maintain sanity within the new found pressures of the business world.

In Mickey’s case, entrepreneurism and quality of life go hand in hand. It is important that our Foundation, in cooperation with others, realize this linkage and build a bridge to foster entrepreneurial growth while simultaneously enhancing our region’s already incredible assets so we can grow and attract new business- exceptional business- right here at home.

Surf’s up…and so is entrepreneurism!

The Stars of New Hanover County

2010-12-27T13:05:00.000-08:00

StarNews recently revealed that New Hanover County is ranked sixth in the state for the number of teachers with National Board Certification for 2010.

This is exciting news and on behalf of the Cape Fear Future Team, I want to offer a huge congratulations to our newly certified teachers!

This article caught my eye for two reasons: Cape Fear Future is committed to improving our region’s educational system and this is an extraordinary achievement that should be highlighted at great length. Secondly, this certification process hits home for me because my mother, a former art teacher of Roanoke Rapids, NC, was one of the first teachers to qualify for the National Board Certification in the early 1990s. After reading the StarNews article, I called my mom to ask about her personal experience.

“The National Board for Teacher Certification was the most grueling experience of my professional life. But once accomplished, the experience changed everything about the way I saw my teaching and my students. The National Board is voluntary: a challenge where one must be fiercely committed to being the best you can be. As in any worthwhile endeavor, to be better, to step beyond what is expected or ordinary, one has to take risks. It was such a remarkable experience. New Hanover County must be very proud of their newly certified teachers.”

I remember this time period well. Aside from losing almost every one of her hair follicles and the diversion of copious amounts of blood away from her vital organs, she made it through. The certification process is akin to that of a lawyer preparing to take the bar...not easy. The applicants prepare extensive portfolios related to their field of expertise and are assessed on their current teaching methods, as well as their comprehension and expertise on those subjects as evaluated by their responses to a series of exercises.

The interesting, and probably most valuable takeaway of this process is the requirement that a candidate’s lesson plans make an impact outside of the classroom. My mom described this as throwing a pebble into a still pond. “Every lesson should have a ripple effect in which the lesson’s content of experience affects not just the student in that classroom, but also involves other teachers, and extends into the community at large, as the content of the lesson also exists in the context of the community.”

Teachers voluntarily undergo huge self assessments and practice their craft looking for ways to expand knowledge and critically assess their strengths and weaknesses. Teachers are improving the quality of their teaching to produce a superior learning environment that consistently supports the student’s knowledge.

This process is a great parallel for start-up businesses/entrepreneurs who are essentially doing the same thing—consistently reevaluating their craft, their expertise, and their impact (in their case, profitability and number of items sold to community). Starting something new is tricky and the New Hanover County teachers really took a risk to do this. Achieving national board certification is in a way being the ultimate entrepreneur.

This intense self-examination and performance appraisal process should be widely encouraged across the region, state, and nation. We should be proud that New Hanover County has produced such a high number of recipients as this marks an important achievement for our school system, and an important milestone in terms of community and economic development.

See the following link for StarNews article:
http://www.starnewsonline.com/article/20101221/ARTICLES/101229948/1177?Title=New-Hanover-County-teachers-rank-high-in-NC-nation

Peeling Back the Layers

2010-12-15T07:20:00.000-08:00

In his fight against the joke-slaying villain, Batman said: "The Riddler's mind is like an artichoke. You have to rip off spiny leaves to reach the heart!" Now that is strategic crime-fighting.

While the Cape Fear Future Leadership team isn’t unraveling brain teasers, they are actively pealing back those layers that are the primary causes of crime in downtown Wilmington, as the issue has garnered the attention of several community groups.
CFF chose to first concentrate on crime because it is a secondary issue associated with one of the main initiatives under CFF’s Quality of Life Task Force: promoting a vibrant downtown. Research overwhelming shows that a strong downtown is fundamental to the strength and vibrancy of an area’s regional economy; therefore, the task force wanted to solicit feedback from community members on those issues most pressing in terms of downtown revitalization. At the Cape Fear Future Commission meeting on September 1, attendees unanimously expressed their concern about crime in the central business district.

Since the meeting in September, CFF leaders have hosted and participated in several focus groups and roundtable discussions in an effort to develop a clear understanding of the effects of the problem and the means required to resolve it.

In one roundtable discussion hosted by PPD’s CEO General David Grange, attendees heard about the General’s experience with tackling crime through his work at the McCormick Foundation in Chicago. General Grange explained how violence is inextricably linked to civic health. Again, the idea of peeling back the layers surfaced as General Grange suggested our community “look below the water line” and identify the root causes of the issue.

So what do we see when we look below the water line? The most prevalent concern is the surplus of bars in the area. Compared to most cities, the density of bars in Wilmington is overwhelmingly disproportionate to the geographic zone of the CBD. Because those bars close at the same time, weekend party-goers exit onto the streets en masse, many intoxicated. Fighting and assaults often result.

It is not fair to solely blame the bar owners, property owners, bar-patrons or the police. It is fair to say, however, that there is a dangerous concoction at work: numerous bars, high number of college students, and the proximity in which all these dynamics take place is (about 12 blocks: Red Cross to Castle Street). But there may be strategies available that can help reduce the incidents of crime during these hours. The Department of Justice suggests two specific responses to reducing assaults in and around bars: the first recommendation is to implement responses to reduce how much alcohol patrons drink, thereby reducing aggression and vulnerability to assault; and implement responses to make bars safer, regardless of how much alcohol patrons consume.

What is the next step? CFF has been approached by several groups to aid efforts in exploring long-term options that include collaboration and policy development. CFF plans to act as a supporting unit and assist both community groups and local representatives in creating crime prevention strategies and policies that lead to long-term community success against crime.

Unpave Paradise…and Put Up a Park

2010-12-13T08:16:00.001-08:00

Enhancing quality of life can encompass improving education, developing the arts, stimulating local business creation, or improving the physical amenities of an area…just to name a few. But one idea that has taken off across the globe is the creation of green space. In an effort to attract and retain residents and skilled workers, cities are using parks and open space to leverage investment into their local economies.

In the 1980s, Chattanooga, Tennessee suffered an economic recession due to the closing and relocation of factories…not to mention the area was wrought with air pollution from towering smoke stacks. Due to the increasing unemployment rates and the declining quality of life, residents were quickly moving elsewhere. As a result, the local government, businesses, and community groups came together to explore ways in which they could improve Chattanooga’s quality of life. They decided to purchase land for parks and open space, and, as a result, things began to turn around.

In their case study of Chattanooga, the Trust for Public Land found: “the environmentally progressive redevelopment of Chattanooga’s downtown riverfront [there is a 75-mile network of greenways and trails located along river] involved $356 million in public and private investment. In eight years between 1988 and 1996 the number of businesses and full-time jobs in the district more than doubled, and assessed property values went up over $11 million, an increase of 127.5 %. Over the same period, the annual combined city and county property tax revenues [in the downtown riverfront area] went up $592,000, an increase of 99%.”

Chattanooga’s success is one of many. People want to live in areas that are adorned with open space and that are visually appealing. Countless studies have shown that corporate CEOs and small company owners alike equate parks/open space (ie. quality of life) as the highest priority for choosing a new location for their business.

The Cape Fear Future Quality of Life Team understands this rationale and is currently exploring/supporting efforts to create green space. Other efforts are also already underway: the newly sworn-in New Hanover County commissioners wasted no time, voting unanimously to purchase approximately 63 acres near Castle Hayne Park in an effort to create a multi-use park. In their list of prioritized initiatives, the Vision 2020 Committee has also endorsed ways in which we can create more waterfront parks and green corridors.

There are, however, other “green” projects that improve an area’s quality of life. While traveling in Europe this summer, I had the fortune of seeing multiple projects that were pioneering, creative, progressive, and downright sensible. There were few new large-scale development projects, but instead, revitalization and improvement efforts that enhanced the unique infrastructure already in place. For instance, the European Environmental Agency in Copenhagen launched their “Europe in Bloom” campaign which built on the concept of façade improvements- a brilliant idea. The project puts a twist on the traditional ideas of green space, gardens, and external building improvements. Several agencies came together in Copenhagen and designed a vertical garden, the first outdoor green façade in Denmark. It serves multiple purposes: acts as a home for animals, produces food, insulates buildings, absorbs urban noise, reduces dust (improving air quality), and improves the overall aesthetics of the area (see the link below for photographs and more detail).

The European Environmental Agency explains: “The EEA Living Façade wants to illustrate the significance of vertical gardens as urban green areas. These areas represent a backbone for human health, biodiversity and ecosystem services in cities. For most urban dwellers, the perception of "greenery" in or nearby their cities is an integral part of what constitutes the 'quality of life'.”

In closing, the acquisition of land and redevelopment projects like the aforementioned are not always feasible… in large part this is a result of the current economic state and reduced budgets. But it is important to remember that conservation and open space have overwhelmingly proved to have incredible return on investment. If we want to improve the quality of life in the Cape Fear Region we must formulate strategies that are sustainable and innovative, but that represent our regional brand and satisfy the community as a whole.

http://www.eea.europa.eu/themes/biodiversity/living-facade

An Entrepreneurial Economy

2010-11-30T10:40:00.000-08:00

In case you haven’t heard, entrepreneurship is all the rage…and should be.

In a recent opinion column published in the Greater Wilmington Business Journal, Jonathan Rowe, the Director of the UNCW Entrepreneurship Center, stated the importance of entrepreneurship: “For Southeastern North Carolina, 73 percent of our registered businesses have less than ten employees and, according to the North Carolina Division of Labor, 60 percent to 80 percent of new jobs each year come from companies with less than 25 employees or less than five years old.” These statistics clearly encapsulate the need for entrepreneurs and startups in our region; they also mean we, as a community, must provide the proper training, education and support to ensure their emergence and fruition.

If you decide to start your own business, no one is going to hand you a blueprint that will determine the roadmap for success. There are however, a few characteristics that set successful entrepreneurs aside from the rest.

Entrepreneurs must be innovative, committed, determined, passionate, and have an ability to understand their target market and why that market must have their product…oh yeah, and successful entrepreneurs need a little financial capital too.

The News and Observer recently published a report on a Duke Alum who demonstrated such tenacious entrepreneurial spirit. A novice at Microsoft, Kimberly Jenkins went to her boss with what she thought was one heck of a pitch—sell Microsoft products to Universities. Steve Ballmer, CEO, ran the idea up the ladder to Bill Gates; neither was taken with the idea but decided to let her go with it…the N&O reports “Within a year, Microsoft’s new educational products division was responsible for 10% of the company’s domestic revenue”. Jenkins is a beautiful exemplar of someone with determination and passion, and who decided to take a risk because she knew what market to target.

We hear countless stories about entrepreneurs, young and old, who have launched successful start-ups across our region…and most of these start-ups are smaller in scale, with the occasional emergence of a Fred Eshelman—an incredible story of an entrepreneur who established a start up that blossomed into a high-growth company called PPD, with offices in 42 countries and more than 10,500 professionals worldwide. We need more of those types, and we may be on our way.

Universities across the state are already realizing the importance of entrepreneurial activity to the regional and global economy. The UNCW E-Center is growing at an incredible pace, offering mentorship, competitions, regular networking events, education, and even real financial capital. Efforts are underway at both Duke and UNC-Chapel Hill to invest in interdisciplinary entrepreneurial education (see News and Observer article link below), but efforts must go beyond just educational programs. Our region must first understand the importance of entrepreneurship and what resources are needed to foster such an environment.

Peter Drucker, the renowned business management guru and philosopher said: “The best way to predict the future is to create it”. Now is the time. Let us create a prosperous future, a creative future, a future that will buzz with economic wealth and a better quality of life.

http://www.newsobserver.com/2010/11/29/831964/duke-alumna-is-hunting-good-ideas.html#storylink=misearch

Jobless Need Technical Expertise to Re-enter Workforce

2010-10-11T09:02:00.000-07:00

In today’s evolving workforce, there is an increasing demand for technical and computer expertise.

AP Economics writer Christopher Rugaber has reported that in the midst of financial crisis, many retirees and aging employees are finding the need to return to work, but many are not able to compete because the jobs they once knew so well are now relying on technical skills that were not needed before. People are beginning to discover they cannot even qualify for their old positions. Unfortunately, this further hinders the staggering unemployment rate across the country. As most employers are looking for a specific skill set, they are not turning to the unemployed/formerly employed sector, but rather those individuals already employed who are already equipped with the skills they need.

The competition to obtain a job in general is compounded by the fact that most manufacturing industries (where much of the retired workforce has experience) now require two skill sets: business analysis and system analysis. Christopher Rugaber of the Associated Press, reports this trend is a result of companies’ decision to control costs during the recession. The goal is to hire fewer people with varied skills which in turn maintains or increases productivity.

Rugaber reports, “Human resource specialists say employers who increasingly need multi-skilled employees aren’t willing to settle for less. They’d rather wait and hold jobs vacant”.

This is one of the issues that Cape Fear Future will help to address. The skills gap is growing in today’s workforce and it is important to push forward those training and educational programs necessary in addressing the needs of employers. Cape Fear Future is exploring STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) programs to be implemented in the New Hanover County School System that may better prepare the upcoming workforce. Moreover, to assess the needs of local employers, the Cape Fear Future Education Task Force has distributed surveys asking employers the current educational/technical expertise needed in their field, the current performance/proficiency of their employers, and those demands they expect from future applicants. This survey will allow a closer look at the needs and expectations of our recent graduates, and our current and future workforce.

Click here to read Christopher Rugaber’s full article.

Entrepreneurship Summit - September 19-20

2010-09-02T07:10:00.000-07:00

The University of North Carolina Wilmington and the N.C. Biotechnology Center southeastern office will host the fourth North Carolina Entrepreneurship Summit on September 19-20 at the Hilton Wilmington Riverside.

The conference will focus on fostering relationships between policy makers, entrepreneurs and advocates for business, economic or work-force development to help entrepreneurs flourish in the state.

For the two-day agenda visit: http://www.ncentresummit.org/event-details.php

Registration is $95 for professionals and $25 for students. The events are open to the public. To register, go to: http://www.ncentresummit.org

Entrepreneurs Get Opportunity for Free Business Advice

2010-08-13T07:39:00.000-07:00

The UNCW Entrepreneurship Center is hosting an Entrepreneurial Speed Dating event on August 26th at 5:30pm where attendees will have an opportunity to talk with leading experts on the following key topics related to individual entrepreneurs and business: legal, accounting, commercial insurance, equity investing, successful entrepreneurs, and commercial bank lending. Attendees will be able to speak with the above individuals in 5-10 minute "speed dating" intervals. Each booth will have a sign-up sheet for the "speed date" on an ordered first come first serve basis.

This creative idea is a great networking opportunity for students, business owners, upcoming entrepreneurs, and all other interested parties. Events are regularly held by the Entrepreneurship Center and are vital when trying to educate, train, and connect the young entrepreneurs of our community.

The events and networking socials at the Center showcase upcoming entrepreneurs and regional businesses, serving as a catalyst in training and attracting knowledge sector workers and businesses. Jonathan Rowe, the Director of the UNCW Entrepreneur Center, is also an active team leader for the Entrepreneurship task force under Cape Fear Future. Cape Fear Future is thrilled to have the support and cooperation from Rowe and his colleagues as their efforts give momentum to the CFF Entrepreneurial Team, and benefit the business community as a whole.

For more information on the UNCW Entrepreneurship Center or the Entrepreneurial Speed Dating Event, please contact Jonathan Rowe at rowej@uncw.edu

Wilmington Looks to Expand International Ties

2010-08-06T12:02:00.000-07:00

Wilmington Mayor Bill Saffo signed a Letter of Understanding with Samarra, Iraq Mayor Mahmood Khalaf Al Bomahdi, with the intent to establish a Sister City relationship between the two cities. The arrangement, signed on August 5th, will help open doors for cultural and educational exchanges and will encourage economic and commercial activity between the cities.

Samarra, like Wilmington, is a riverfront city that also has significant tourism, mainly due to holy sites in the area. Mayor Mahmood visited Wilmington in March of 2010, and met with local business and education leaders over lunch at the Chamber of Commerce to discuss ideas for riverfront and economic development.

If approved by the councils of both cities, Samarra will become Wilmington's fifth Sister City since the program was established in the 1980s. Twinnings have also been established with Dandong, China; Doncaster, England; Bridgetown, Barbados; and San Pedro, Belize. Having international ties is looked upon favorably by knowledge sector workers. Expanding Wilmington's international ties could also be a source for attracting skilled workers to the region in the future.

Schools Earn Good Marks

2010-08-06T11:51:00.000-07:00

Education is one of the three priority areas for Cape Fear Future. A recent report shows New Hanover County Schools are doing well, but there is still considerable room for improvement.

Almost all area schools met expected academic growth goals, and no local schools were classified as low performing, according to a statewide report on education released Thursday, August 5, 2010.

The ABCs of Public Education report is based on results of end-of-grade and end-of-course tests taken in grades 3 through 12. The report also includes information about Adequate Yearly Progress, or AYP, the federal measure of school progress required by No Child Left Behind and the Elementary and Secondary Education Act.

In New Hanover County, 37 of 41 schools met expected academic growth, according to the report, while 27 schools recorded high academic growth. The report put 20 schools into the top three tiers of performance – Honor Schools of Excellence, Schools of Excellence and Schools of Distinction – and 29 schools met AYP.

Read the full article at StarNews Online

Article Highlights CFF Education Task Force Work

2010-06-11T11:15:00.000-07:00

The Wilmington StarNews ran an article on June 4 noting some of the focus areas and challenges faced by the Cape Fear Future Education Task Force. Click here to read the article

One of the Best for Recreation

2010-05-28T07:07:00.000-07:00

Anyone who lives in Wilmington knows that opportunities for recreation abound. This is especially true for water-related activities that can use the Atlantic ocean, Cape Fear River, lakes and creeks as a backdrop. But recreation certainly isn't limited to water...with ever expanding bike paths, the new Cross City Trail under construction, very popular tennis, soccer, and softball leagues, more than 50 area golf courses, a skate park, and much more.

RelocateAmerica.com recently recognized the area's recreation opportunities by ranking Wilmington No. 9 on its "Top 10 Recreation Cities" list. And all that recreation is working: Wilmington is also one of only 7 NC cities that has been given the designation of "Fit Community". Learn more about the designation...

Student get opportunity to Enov8t

2010-05-25T08:05:00.000-07:00

Local high school students can get innovative with a new University of North Carolina Wilmington camp focused on entrepreneurship June 21-25, 2010.

Participants of the camp, named Enov8t (innovate), will learn about building a business from concept to completion, including identifying and evaluating business ideas, writing a business plan, understanding basic financial management, marketing and selling. Instruction will teach teens how to build a successful team and how to be a strong leader. The week of innovation will culminate with a “rocket pitch” event where campers will present their business plan to local business leaders.

Registration is still open for the unique Enov8t camp, which will be held 8:45 a.m. -4 p.m. June 21-25 in the state-of-the-art UNC Wilmington Computer Information Systems Building. The camp is open to rising 10th through 12th grade students. For cost and registration information, visit www.uncw.edu/enov8t.

Jonathan Rowe, director of the UNCW Entrepreneurship Center, and Fran Scarlett, regional director of the UNCW Small Business & Technology Development Center, will lead campers. Guest speakers and UNCW student leaders will educate and encourage campers with discussions, mentoring and hands-on activities.

Cape Fear Future Commission Formed

2010-04-20T08:16:00.000-07:00

Cape Fear Future will receive greater input and support from influential business and government leaders who will serve on the newly formed Cape Fear Future Commission. The role of the 47-member Commission will be to communicate and provide input on Cape Fear Future initiatives, identify and propel important initiatives forward, and help leverage existing efforts and organizations. The Commission includes representatives from New Hanover, Pender and Brunswick County. The goal of Cape Fear Future is to attract and retain knowledge workers and further develop the area’s skilled workforce.

The Commission held its kickoff meeting Tuesday, April 20, where Commission members received an update on the work of the three CFF Task Forces that are focusing on area Quality of Life, Entrepreneurship and Education. Commission members also heard from guest speaker Fred Eshelman (Executive Chairman, PPD, Inc.).

Each of the three focus areas is instrumental in creating an environment that will attract and retain knowledge workers in order to promote sustained economic growth and greater prosperity for the region. Many additional areas of focus have been defined through community input and the work of the consulting group Catalytix, which will be addressed as the process moves forward.

The Quality of Life Task Force, led by Chris Boney (LS3P Associates Ltd.), is developing policies and projects aimed at improving the special characteristics of Wilmington’s unique quality of place in order to attract and retain knowledge workers and businesses. Focus areas include: establishing a consolidated regional effort to enhance and maximize tourism efforts; re-energizing the arts community, and promoting and improving a vibrant downtown.

The Entrepreneurship Action Team, led by Jonathan Rowe (UNCW Entrepreneurship Center), is a catalyst for entrepreneurial growth in Southeastern North Carolina by linking together emerging and high-growth ventures, entrepreneurs, and relevant support organizations to create business growth, jobs, and innovation. CFF will work in partnership with the established UNCW Entrepreneurship Center and others in this effort.

The Education Task Force, led by John Gizdic (NHRMC), will seek to increase involvement and representation of business leaders on educational decision-making committees; establish an assessment of workforce readiness of local students by area businesses; provide advocacy for high quality K-12 education for all students (grass-roots and school board efforts); and enhance STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) education programs and offerings.

“By working toward these enhancements to the region, Cape Fear Future will help ensure that businesses in the region have skilled workers as the Baby Boomers retire and the younger demographic shrinks, and that the area will be a magnet for knowledge-based businesses,” said Chamber President & CEO Connie Majure-Rhett. “The establishment of the Commission is a key part of Cape Fear Future and we are pleased that so many important leaders have stepped forward to serve.”

The Cape Fear Future Commission Kickoff meeting will be available for viewing on the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce (www.wilmingtonchamber.org) and City of Wilmington websites (www.ci.wilmington.nc.us.) beginning April 22.

Idea for Wilmington Public Market Spurred by CFF Trip

2010-03-04T12:45:00.000-08:00

In November 2009, a group of Wilmington business leaders and elected officials visited Charleston, SC for a series of meetings, presentations and site visits tied to the Cape Fear Future initiative. Topics included downtown development, CVB promotion, planning, design and historic preservation. The group met with Mayor Riley, top level officials from a variety of agencies (CVB, SC Aquarium, Charleston Civic Center, Preservation Society, Gibbes Museum of Art and many more), as well as developers, architects, and other private business owners.

The site visit to the Charleston public market has led to a proposal to create a public market in Wilmington again. The addition of a public market in Downtown Wilmington would enhance quality of place and encourage additional growth, development and economic benefits within the Central Business District.

A public market also supports recommendations made in the Vision 2020 plan and would help reconnect citizens with downtown Wilmington and the riverfront, increase off-peak visitation, and enhance the identity of Wilmington as a unique place. Not to mention that it would establish a living symbol of the city’s heritage: a market once stood in the middle of Market Street (which the street name was derived from) between Front and Water Street, but was demolished in 1881.

Learn more about the Wilmington Public Market at: www.wilmingtonpublicmarket.org

Entrepreneurs to "Speed Date" with Business Leaders/Investors

2009-10-27T07:38:00.000-07:00

Emerging startup companies and entrepreneurs in Southeastern North Carolina will pitch their business ideas to business leaders and investors speed-dating style at the University of North Carolina Wilmington on Oct. 28. The event takes place at 5:30 p.m. in the Madeline Suite.

Local cutting-edge technology companies and innovative products will be highlighted as participants compete to “sell” their companies and growth strategies in less than five minutes. This Rocket Pitch event is designed to be a networking opportunity for more than 75 area entrepreneurs, business leaders and investors who may be struggling for resources during the recession. It comes just two weeks after Fortune Small Business Magazine and CNN Money online ranked Wilmington 14th on their list of the best midsized cities in the U.S. for launching a start-up business.

The UNCW Entrepreneurship Center -- which aims to be a catalyst for entrepreneurial growth in Southeastern N.C. by bringing together emerging and high-growth ventures, entrepreneurs and relevant support organizations to create business growth, jobs and innovation -- is hosting the event. For more information on this event, visit www.uncwec.org.

Wilmington Ranks #14 for Small Business Start Ups

2009-10-14T13:29:00.000-07:00

Recognizing Wilmington's entrepreneurial spirit, Fortune Small Business Magazine has ranked Wilmington number 14 of the best midsize cities to launch a start-up business. The article in the November 2009 issue notes that there aren't a great deal of large employers in the area, which adds to the entrepreneurial air.

“In Wilmington, if you can’t find a job, you create one,” the article states.

Cape Fear Future was noted as a progressive program as well, citing the Wilmington 2.0 campaign as the city’s new project to foster technology-focused business.

The rate of small business growth in the area has been impressive: a 12.8 percent rate between 2004 and 2007, according to the article.

Read the entire article on the CNN Money website:
http://money.cnn.com/smallbusiness/best_places_launch/2009/snapshot/355.html

What Should Wilmington's Brand Be?

2009-09-23T07:07:00.000-07:00

Inspired by Cape Fear Future, the Greater Wilmington Business Journal's latest Power Breakfast, held on Tuesday, September 22, tackled the subject of Wilmington's brand. Journal Publisher and CFF Leadership Team member Rob Kaiser asked the audience to think about the image that came to mind when he mentioned several cities, including Savannah, Charleston, Raleigh, and New York. Each has a clear brand that is readily identifiable, but what about Wilmington and the Cape Fear area?

The five panelists who debated the issue included Melanie Cook of Coastal Carolina Tomorrow; Tom Looney, Cape Fear Future's entrepreneur in residence; Jeff Morvil, president of Morvil Advertising and Design; Chad Paul, managing partner of Harbor Island Partners and Rick Randall, CEO of Trans1 Inc. Learn more about their thoughts on Wilmington's brand by reading the Journal's follow-up coverage: "Wilmington Brand Debated at Breakfast Event"

Report Shows How Employers Can Impact STEM Education

2009-09-16T08:16:00.000-07:00

NC Magazine has reported that the US Chamber's Institute for a Competitive Workforce is supporting a new study that outlines what employers can do to improve the way science, technology, engineering and math are taught. STEM is a Cape Fear Future priority area.

The report, called “The Opportunity Equation: Transforming Mathematics and Science Education for Citizenship and the Global Economy” was conducted by the Carnegie-IAS Commission on Mathematics and Science Education. There are four general areas in which the report urges action:

1) Place mathematics and science at the center of education innovation, improvement and accountability to enable higher levels of learning.

2) Establish common standards and assessments for the nation in mathematics and science.

3) Improve math and science teaching, including new ways of recruiting teaching talent.

4) Redesign schools and systems to deliver excellent, equitable math and science learning.

Read the entire article in NC Magazine online.

Priority Areas

2009-08-31T08:53:00.000-07:00

With more than forty potential projects outlined in the Cape Fear Future Cookbook, the Leadership Team had to decide which were the most doable, would have significant impact, and would be a good jumping off point for the initiative. After deliberation, three areas were defined (please note they are not in a ranked order):

Image Enhancement: help create and communicate an image for the Cape Fear Region that will attract and retain knowledge sector workers;

Entrepreneurship: grow and promote entrepreneurship;

STEM Education: emphasize the importance of educational opportunities and excellence in schools, as well as recruit students to Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.

Each of the priority areas are instrumental in creating an environment that will attract and retain knowledge workers in order to promote sustained economic growth and greater prosperity for the region. Many additional areas of focus have been defined through community input and the work of the consulting group Catalytix, which will be addressed as the process moves forward.

By working toward these enhancements to the region, CFF will help ensure that businesses in the region have skilled workers as the Baby Boomers retire and the younger demographic shrinks, and that the region will be a magnet for knowledge-based businesses.

"Champions" for the various initiatives will help ensure that the individual projects are completed, and will include CFF supporters such as the City of Wilmington, New Hanover County, UNCW, CFCC, NHRMC, Progress Energy, GE-Hitachi Nuclear Energy, PPD, Coty, and more.