Local News

FTCC offers course in Biowork, a rapidly expanding field

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Tuesday, 30 July 2024

Written by Jaclyn Shambaugh

Fayetteville Technical Community College has added a new course focused on training students to start their careers in the growing biotechnology industry.
FTCC offered its first BioWork: Process Technician course through the Corporate and Continuing Education department this spring.
The NC Biotechnology Center developed the BioWork program about 20 years ago as a way to develop the biotech workforce pipeline in the state.
The coursework is standardized so any community college offering the course would prepare students for entry-level positions in the industry. Most of the jobs are in biopharmaceuticals — the manufacturing of drugs — but some can be found in chemical manufacturing or biomanufacturing.
The course lasts about 8 weeks and covers the fundamentals of biomanufacturing, including general manufacturing practices and safety.
Rick Lawless, who taught the initial offering of the course at FTCC, said industry employers around the state have come to recognize the BioWork certificate as a valuable resume piece for potential employees.
“Since it’s been around for 20 years, a lot of the companies in the area — most of them up in the RTP but some in Sanford as well — are advertising entry-level, high school-plus positions with BioWork certificate preferred,” said Lawless, who worked in biotechnology for 35 years before becoming an instructor. “So this certificate means something to hiring managers because it is standardized.”
Lawless said the biotech industry is growing quickly, particularly in North Carolina, where companies are moving to areas in and around the Research Triangle Park.
“We’re looking to build the labor force because companies are coming in so fast that we can’t keep up,” Lawless said. “We’re doing a lot for awareness to get people interested, but also to sponsor them taking BioWork to teach them the fundamentals.”
One sponsorship that is likely to draw interest at FTCC is through the Military Outreach and Veterans Engagement program.
Funds from the grant program cover the cost of the class for military veterans, transitioning service members and military spouses.
Katie Williams, a military spouse and member of the initial course at FTCC, had the cost of her course tuition covered through MOVE.
Williams developed an interest in pharmaceutical development and research after working as a clinical research coordinator over vaccine trials during the COVID-19 pandemic.
When funding for the trials dried up, Williams was laid off.
“Getting laid off was heartbreaking because there were all these studies that I was interested in,” she said.
When Williams came across information about the BioWork program, she signed up, recognizing it as a related field that would put her back in a career providing necessary help to people.
“It’s still in the vein of my goal, which is figuring out what I can do for my community. How can I help?” she said.
FTCC’s next BioWork course offering begins Aug. 18 and runs through Oct. 17. Registration for the class can be completed through FTCC’s WebAdvisor Continuing Education portal at webadvisor.faytechcc.edu/WebAdvisor/WebAdvisor?TOKENIDX=7840123713&SS=1&APP=ST&CONSTITUENCY=WBCE. Search keywork “biowork.”
Prospective students from the military community should contact Rick Lawless at lawlessr@faytechcc.edu to ask about sponsorship through the MOVE program.

Loretta Jae celebrates 1st anniversary in skincare

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Tuesday, 30 July 2024

Written by Amber Little

Loretta Jae Esthetics is celebrating one year of business in Fayetteville. To help commemorate the occasion, owner Lateifa Young isn’t just throwing a party for her business, she’s giving back with a back-to-school celebration for the kids.
Festivities start at 4 p.m. on Aug. 18 in the parking lot of the spa located at 402 Santa Fe Drive, Fayetteville. Kids will enjoy fresh off-the-grill hotdogs and hamburgers and fun giveaways, like teen facials and makeup vouchers, perfect for those upcoming special occasions during the school year.
Young has always loved looking pretty and she mastered the art of makeup and skin care early on. At first, she served as the family makeup artist, but with a little nudge, she decided to enroll in cosmetology school.
While she excelled, life had a side plan in store. Young took a break from school to take care of her family, a sacrifice she was more than happy to make. But a calling is a calling, and Young was destined to do what she loved: make women feel beautiful and teach them how to take care of their most precious and largest organ, their skin. A chance meeting with Montia Shardae, owner of Montia Shardae School of Esthetics put Young back on course.
“I started researching some of the schools [in the area]. I did Fayetteville Tech, I did a couple of private schools in Raleigh, and one other community college. But every time that I would call them to kind of get an idea of what was going on, they told me there was a waiting list or the school was packed and I couldn’t get in. And then I saw Montia post on Instagram that she had opened up a school and she doing enrollments. I was like this is my chance.’ So I contacted her, I went by the school and did a tour. And that was the day that really changed my life,” she said.
“I knew that's what I wanted to do, just having a conversation with Montia and her telling her story. I was like 'yeah this is the right place. This is where I’m going.' I paid my deposit that day and went home and told my mom. And she said, 'Lateifa that's it. This is what you’ve wanted to do your whole life. So why not go for it?' And that’s all the confirmation I needed.” Young’s mom is a huge part of her story and her strongest support system throughout the process. With a stretched budget, keeping up with her 9-5 was more vital than ever.
“It was a nine-month course. I went to work during the day and school at night. And my mom would help me with the boys back and forth. There were so many long days. It was not easy at all,” she said. “There were so many days I wanted to say, ‘oh no, I’m tired, I can’t do this anymore.’ And not to mention I was paying for it all out of pocket. That was difficult too. Keeping up with bills and children and study. It was a stressful time. But I would not change it for the world because it made it so much worthwhile.”
She credits her success and mastery of the business side of the industry to Shardae and the education she received at the school.
“She taught business classes, she helped us all get started with just thinking about our logo, our colors, and an idea of what we want our businesses to be. I started while I was in school. Just thinking about it about my name, my colors, my business, and for me, that was such a push because I had a name before but it didn’t resonate with me. When I came up with my name after that I was yeah this is it, this is something I can keep for the rest of my life and do other things not just esthetician business. I can do other things too.” Young said.
Loretta Jae Esthetics is by appointment only and offers a range of services for clients in a luxurious space fit for a queen. Services include facials (for men, women, and teens), waxing, makeup, and spa parties. One-on-one makeup tutorials and bridal party makeup packages and parties/tutorials are available as well.
Clients not only receive services but also a proper education on aftercare and taking care of and protecting their skin. To make sure clients are using the best products possible, there is a growing skincare line, Loretta Jae Skynn, available at the spa.
Young loves what she does and it is apparent in the way she speaks of her business and what she does for individuals.
“It has truly been rewarding for me because just to see the different transformations and people just coming back to me with confidence that they didn’t have before they started first going to me. Being an esthetician for me is more than just getting money or correcting skin. I friend my clients. It’s like therapy. I love my clients. It's more than just your booking. I want you to feel welcome. I want you to relax. I want my clients to take a self-care day and make them feel like they actually paid for a service, and it was valuable to them.” Young said.
Appointments can be booked online at https://www.lorettajae.com/s/appointments.

And the winner is… Fayetteville Kennel Club

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Tuesday, 30 July 2024

Written by Lisa Stevens

Winner of the 2024 American Kennel Club for the Public Education Award, the all-inclusive Fayetteville Kennel Club is one of the oldest kennel clubs in the country. Since its inception in 1952, FKC has been a hub for Obedience, Agility, Rally competitions, and Conformation shows. However, as the 21st century dawned, it became clear that the club needed to evolve to meet the changing needs of AKC and American pet owners.
Over the past few years, FKC has undergone a remarkable transformation. The club has grown from a small group of purebred enthusiasts to a vibrant, diverse community of 65 members, ranging from young children to seniors, as well as active and retired military personnel and disabled veterans. This newfound energy and inclusivity have breathed new life into the club, making it an exciting and fun-filled destination for dog lovers of all backgrounds.
FKC now offers various classes and activities, from Rally and Canine Good Citizen to Scent Work, Frisbee, and Barn Hunt. These classes are primarily for the benefit of members but are also open to the general public at nominal fees. Additionally, owners of dogs adopted from shelters only pay 50% of the class fee, making the club accessible to all.
The club's commitment to innovation is evident in its introduction of new events like the wildly popular FastCAT held monthly during mild weather. Club members have also learned to manage AKC events, gaining valuable insights into dog breeds, care, and behavior. The presence of a chiropractor at these events further enhances the care and well-being of the canine participants.
Yvette Piantadosi is the training director at FKC and has been involved with dogs for over 48 years, having worked with almost all breeds. Her certificates include AKC Fit Dog, Star Puppy, CGC, ATT, Farm Dog, Control Unleashed Certified Instructor, and Certified Council for Professional Dog Trainers.
“Animals provide me with a sense of enjoyment. Dogs are forgiving of our mistakes and give unconditional love. Dogs are the best form of therapy,” Piantadosi shares.
Piantadosi adds, “Since joining the Fayetteville Kennel Club three years ago, I have witnessed firsthand the remarkable growth and inclusivity that the club has fostered. Our talented members have created a welcoming and supportive environment for all. Their proactive approach and the dedication shown whether crafting fun ribbons, improving the facilities, providing free instruction, or volunteering at local shelters, all of the members of FKC exemplify the true spirit of community and service.”
FKC's partnership with the Fayetteville Animal Protection Society is another testament to its inclusive and community-oriented approach. Shelter dogs participate in fun runs free of charge to allow them to socialize and potentially find their forever homes.
The club's calendar is filled with various events, including ATT tests, Scent Work seminars, Farm Dog tests, and Frisbee/Trick Dog workshops. The most recent Barn Hunt practice trial in June 2024 drew over 60 participants, showcasing the club's growing popularity and the enthusiasm of its members.
As the Fayetteville Kennel Club evolves and expands its offerings, it is clear that this is a club on the rise – one that is committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and dynamic environment for dog enthusiasts of all backgrounds. For more information about FKC, visit fayettevillenckennelclub.weebly.com or visit their facebook page at www.facebook.com/AKCFKC/

(Photo: Members of the Fayetteville Kennel Club pose for a photo at a FKC event. Photo courtesy of FKC)

Expanding horizons: City Center Gallery & Books' new venture

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Tuesday, 30 July 2024

Written by Sheila D. Barker

City Center Gallery & Books, located at 112 Hay Street in Downtown Fayetteville, is about to embark on an exciting new venture. The bookstore, which predominantly sells used books, is expanding its store by buying the building next door. This expansion will allow the shop to offer even more to its customers and the community.
With the acquisition of the building next door, 110 Hay Street, owners of City Center Gallery & Books, Hank and Diane Parfitt, have big plans for the future. With this addition, the current shop will go from 1,200 square feet to 2.200 square feet. They envision creating a space that not only showcases the best in literature and art, but continues to serve as a hub for creativity, culture and community engagement.
In November 2021, the Parfitts purchased the neighboring building, which had been neglected and vacant for over 30 years. They bought it not only to expand their shop but also to save it from demolition. If the city had to step in to demolish the building it would have meant long-term structural problems for the current bookstore and a disruption of the street-scape.
Built in 1886, this building originally housed Eggleston’s jewelry store. Over the years, it has remained a jewelry store, most recently known as Henebry’s.
Phase one of the project, which was completed in 2022, consisted of the removal of the metal facade and the demolition of the interior. The Parfitts were thrilled to see a well-preserved architectural brick detailing revealed once the metal facade was removed. There was also the discovery of a large metal safe on wheels that was most likely used to store jewelry and gems back in the day. It was safely removed from the space and donated.
Phase two, where the project currently is, will involve a new roof and the restoration of the facade. They will also remove the brick from the second-floor windows and start to work on the exterior of the building. The original tin tile ceiling, which is mostly in good shape, will be restored and kept in the space. There are also several skylights that will be preserved. The plan is to bring back the original look of the exterior as it was in 1886.
Maintaining architectural design and aesthetic continuity is a key consideration in the expansion of City Center Gallery & Books. The bookstore and gallery has a unique charm and character the Parfitts want to preserve as they expand into the new building next door.
The architectural design of the expansion will be carefully planned to seamlessly blend with the existing structure. The goal is to create a cohesive space that feels like a natural extension of the current store.
Customers will be able to move between the two buildings by a shared opening linking the spaces. The new space will be an open floor plan with books, bookcases and art along the walls giving the current store more space for added inventory. The middle of the space will remain open for meetings and events. From the exterior facade to the interior layout, great care will be taken to ensure that the new space complements the existing one and enhances the overall experience for visitors.
The expansion presents an exciting opportunity for the bookstore and gallery to further enhance their impact in the local community. The Pariftts are planning to use the new larger space for book signings with authors, artist receptions, classes and workshops as well as a place for local book clubs or writing clubs to meet.
They plan to collaborate with local artists, authors, and organizations to create a vibrant cultural hub that brings people together and celebrates the arts. The bookstore and gallery aim to be a place where people can not only discover great books and art but also engage with the creative community and participate in enriching cultural experiences.
25 Years Downtown
City Center Gallery & Books is also celebrating a major milestone - 25 years of promoting art and literature in Downtown Fayetteville. Over the past two and a half decades, this beloved establishment has been a hub for creative expression and intellectual exploration. From showcasing local artists to hosting book signings and author events, City Center Gallery & Books has played a vital role in fostering a vibrant cultural scene in the heart of the city.
The original shop, named City Center Gallery, was opened in 1999 on Maxwell Street and was just an art gallery. The current location and business name was opened in 2003.
The gallery has featured a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums, from traditional paintings to contemporary pieces. The bookstore has offered a wide selection of literary works, catering to the varied interests and tastes of its patrons.
Through its curated collections, City Center Gallery & Books has provided a platform for local artists to showcase their talent and connect with art enthusiasts. It has also been a venue for thought-provoking discussions and gatherings, encouraging dialogue and intellectual growth.
In the realm of literature, City Center Gallery & Books has been a haven for book lovers and avid readers. With its carefully curated collection of books across genres, the bookstore has been a place where literary enthusiasts can discover new authors, engage in literary discussions, and find solace in the written word. It has also been a supportive space for local authors, providing them with opportunities to showcase their work and connect with their readers.
In an era where books are increasingly becoming digital and e-readers are gaining popularity, City Center Gallery & Books has successfully navigated the challenges and remained open in the face of these changes. While the digital age has undoubtedly transformed the way we consume literature, City Center Gallery & Books has found a way to thrive, preserving the essence of a traditional bookstore. In doing so, it continues to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of its customers, ensuring that the love for literature and the joy of reading remain alive and well in Downtown Fayetteville.
“There are still a large number of people who want to experience a real book,” says Hank Parfitt. He believes the difference is that a digital screen lets the reader be a spectator, but a real book lets the reader be a participant.
One of the key factors that has contributed to the gallery's continued success is its commitment to providing a unique and immersive experience for book lovers. The physical space of the bookstore offers a sense of nostalgia and warmth that cannot be replicated by digital platforms. The shelves lined with books, the sound of pages turning, and the opportunity to browse and discover hidden literary gems create a sensory experience that many readers still crave. City Center Gallery & Books also has many out-of-print, rare and hard-to-find books that are not available in digital form.
Over the past 25 years, Downtown Fayetteville has undergone significant changes, and City Center Gallery & Books has been a witness to this transformation. As the city has evolved and grown, so has the cultural scene and artistic landscape of Downtown Fayetteville.
One notable change has been the revitalization of the downtown area, with new businesses, restaurants, and entertainment venues opening their doors. This has brought a renewed sense of vibrancy and energy to the neighborhood, attracting more visitors and residents.
The Parfitts have also noticed a change in the demographics of the downtown area. With additions of events like 4th Friday, there has been a younger crowd. Outdoor dining options, they feel, has been another great addition to downtown Fayetteville.
City Center Gallery & Books has been at the heart of this transformation, serving as a cultural anchor and contributing to the overall appeal of Downtown Fayetteville. Many visitors to the area, when commenting on Downtown, have mentioned they love the local bookstore.
Another significant change has been the increased focus on community engagement and public art. Downtown Fayetteville has seen the emergence of public art installations, murals, and sculptures, creating a more visually appealing and dynamic environment. The Parfitts have actively participated in promoting Downtown events that celebrate public art and engage the community in artistic endeavors.
Furthermore, the downtown area has become a hub for local festivals and events, drawing people from all over to experience the unique charm and creativity of Downtown Fayetteville. City Center Gallery & Books has been an active participant in these celebrations, hosting book signings, art demonstrations, and cultural performances. It has played a vital role in promoting the city as a cultural destination and showcasing the talents of local artists and authors.
As Downtown Fayetteville continues to evolve, City Center Gallery & Books remains a constant presence, adapting to the changing landscape while preserving its commitment to fostering community and culture. It stands as a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of Downtown Fayetteville, a place where art, literature and community converge.

(Top Photo: The original store front for Eggleston's Jeweler, the original tenant of the building.  Bottom Photo: Brick repair has begun on the building next to City Center Gallery and Books in preparation for the expansion. Photos courtesy of Hank Parfitt)