Table of Contents

10 Chamber Leadership

12 Chamber Welcome

14 2025 Community investors

15 Benefits of Membership/Ambassadors Club

16 County Information

18 Ribbon Cuttings

20 Business After Hours

22 Military Affairs Committee

24 Connect Carteret Young Professionals

26 Chamber Events & Committees

30 Celebrating Business Awards

32 Leadership Carteret

34 Reverse Drawing

36 Business After Hours Expo

38 Members By Category

47 Members – Alphabetical

Chamber Leadership

Carteret County Chamber of Commerce 2025 Board of Directors

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

2025 CHAIR
Will Rogers
Rogers & Co. CPAs, PA
Term: 2023-2025
Morehead City East District

CHAIR ELECT
Tom Hemby
HTR Coastal Properties
Term: 2024-2026
Beaufort/Down East District

PAST CHAIR
Kurt Rogerson
Realty World First Coast
Terms: 2020-2022, 2023-2025
Beaufort/Down East District

TREASURER
Tina Purifoy
Carteret County Parks & Recreation /
Crystal Coast Civic Center
Terms: 2022-2024, 2025-2027
Morehead City East District

elected members

Michelle Barringer
Complexion Med Spa
Term: 2024-2026
Bogue Banks East District

Angie Cochran
Crystal Coast Country Club
Term: 2025-2027
Bogue Banks East District

Trey Hardesty
Beaufort Hotel
Term: 2025-2027
Beaufort/Down East District

Catissa Head
Coastal Community Action
Term: 2023-2025
MHC West/Newport District

Kyle Lagos
Spinnaker’s Reach Realty
Term: 2025-2027
Carteret West District

Jillian Lister
Set Sail Marketing / Carolina Women’s Collective
Term: 2024-2026
Carteret West District

Cheryl Mansfield
Edward Jones Investments
Terms: 2022-2024, 2025-2027
MHC West/Newport District

Richard McIntyre
First Flight Federal Credit Union
Term: 2023-2025
Morehead City East District

Jen Merlo
Bluefin Artistry
Term: 2024-2026
Bogue Banks East District

JT Riley
Local Point Church
Term: 2024-2026
MHC West/Newport

Wendy Routson
Emerald Isle Beach & Pool Club
Terms: 2020-2022, 2023-2025
Carteret West

John Sotirkys II
Hope Mission of Coastal Carolina
Term: 2024-2026
Unrestricted

Bena Weires
Carteret Community College
Terms: 2021-2023, 2024-2026
MHC West/Newport

Ex Officio Members

Board Members Emeritus

Wanda Bennett
Work on Wonderful Consulting

Millie Chalk
Friend of the Chamber

John Hagle
Friend of the Chamber

Community Partners

Cape Lookout National Seashore
Jeff West, Superintendent

Carteret Community College
Dr. Tracy Mancini, President

Carteret County Economic Development
Rod Kirk, Executive Director

Carteret County Public Schools
Jennifer Perryman, Chief Communications Officer

Carteret Small Business Center
Brandy Bell, Director

Crystal Coast Tourism Authority
Jim Browder, Executive Director

Chamber Committee Liaisons

Ambassadors Club
Sue Schurer, Honey Baked Ham of Morehead City

Connect Carteret Young Professionals
Sharii Phelps, First Citizens Bank

Military Affairs Committee
Jen Merlo, Bluefin Artistry

CHAMBER STAFF

Erin Knight
President

Taylor McCune
Marketing & Programs Director

Julie Naegelen
Membership Services Director

Autumn Ware
Marketing Assistant

Kam Osmus
Administrative Coordinator

Chamber Welcome

As the Board Chair and President of the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce, we are delighted to extend a warm welcome to each of our members, partners and community stakeholders. Our Chamber thrives because of your dedication, collaboration and unwavering support, which fuel the vibrant culture of our coastal community.

Savvy local business leaders know that opportunities for growth and innovation abound in our area — but navigating them requires strong connections and strategic support. That’s where the Chamber comes in. Through valuable resources, dedicated advocacy and dynamic networking opportunities, we help organizations of all sizes adapt, thrive and seize new possibilities. Whether it’s rising operational costs, supply chain shifts or the evolving demand for sustainable practices, our proactive support of members ensures Carteret County remains a place where businesses and entrepreneurs flourish.

Reflecting on the past year, we’ve witnessed remarkable resilience and creativity among our members. From pivoting business models to embracing new technologies, your adaptability has been inspiring. Looking ahead, we are excited to continue fostering connections, supporting responsible growth and championing entrepreneurship. Together, we can navigate the complexities of today’s economy and emerge stronger.

As a non-profit, the Chamber relies predominantly on membership investments. Your contributions directly fund initiatives that promote local businesses, foster economic development and enhance the quality of life in our region. In other words, by choosing to invest your time and talent in our close-knit business community, you’re contributing to the collective prosperity of our community while growing your own business.

We encourage you to engage actively with the Chamber’s programs and events. Whether it’s attending networking sessions, participating in professional development workshops or collaborating on community projects, your involvement is key to our shared success.

Thank you for your steadfast commitment to our community and the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce. We look forward to another year of growth, innovation and collective achievement.

Sincerely,

Will Rogers | Board Chair

Erin Knight | President

2025 Community Investors

The Carteret County Chamber of Commerce recognizes
the following Chamber Members for their generous investment
in our Chamber and, therefore, our community.

Benefits of Membership

With nearly 800 Member businesses and organizations, our Chamber must be doing something right! The opportunities provided to Chamber Members through the many events and programs seen on the pages of this directory are just the tip of the iceberg. We offer our Members a laundry list of additional perks they can work into their business models.

Here are just a few of the benefits our Members enjoy:

Complimentary Business Services

• Conference Room Use

• 30-Minute Marketing Consultations

• Online Job Board

• Notary Public

• Certificate of Origin

Complimentary Marketing & Advertising

• Ribbon Cuttings

• Custom Online Directory Listings

• Annual Print Directory Listings

• Direct Business Referrals

• Event Promotion

• News & Announcement Publication

• Lobby Display Space

Member-Exclusive Marketing

• Host Business After Hours

• Event & Program Sponsorships

• Directory & Newsletter Ads

• Eligible for Annual Business Award Honors

Member-Exclusive Leadership, Networking & Development

• Eligible for Board of Directors

• Chamber Committee Service

• Preferred Acceptance to Leadership Carteret

• Attend Chamber Networking Events

Ambassadors Club

The Heart of Member Engagement

The Ambassadors Club is the heartbeat of the Chamber, a dedicated team of volunteers committed to strengthening connections between local businesses and the community. More than just a committee, this group serves as the Chamber’s business retention team, making sure members feel supported, engaged and empowered to make the most of their investment. Whether celebrating a ribbon cutting, welcoming a new business or checking in with longtime members, Ambassadors help create a Chamber experience that is both meaningful and rewarding.

Building strong professional ties is at the core of what the Ambassadors do, but members of “The Club” also gain valuable opportunities for themselves. By taking on a leadership role within the Chamber, they expand their own networks, grow their professional visibility and deepen their understanding of the local business landscape. It’s a unique way to both give back and get ahead, creating relationships that can lead to new partnerships, clients and career growth.

For those looking to get involved in the Chamber in a more impactful way, the Ambassadors Club offers a chance to make a direct impact on the local business community while helping to cultivate a culture of cooperation. If you’re ready to engage, connect and support the success of your fellow Chamber members, we invite you to join us.

County Information

Carteret County Facts

■  Carteret County is home to 11 municipalities, including the coastal gems of Atlantic Beach, Beaufort, Emerald Isle and Morehead City, along with Bogue, Cape Carteret, Cedar Point, Indian Beach, Newport, Peletier and Pine Knoll Shores.

■  Founded as Carteret Precinct in 1722 and gaining county status in 1739, Carteret County carries the name of Sir George Carteret, an English statesman and one of North Carolina’s original Lords Proprietors.

■  Carteret County operates under a council-manager government, where elected commissioners set policy and a professional manager oversees daily operations. Currently, Sharon Griffin serves as the interim county manager.

■  The Port of Morehead City helps keep waterways navigable through regular dredging, ensuring safe passage for both commercial and recreational vessels.

■  Two active Coast Guard installations — Sector Field Office Fort Macon and Station Emerald Isle — along with three Marine Corps sites — Auxiliary Landing Field Bogue, Outlying Field Atlantic and the multi-purpose target complex BT-11 on Piney Island — make the county a vital hub for military operations.

■  Carteret County is a hub for marine sciences and home to research campuses from three top North Carolina universities — Duke, NC State and UNC-Chapel Hill.

County Commissioners

District area descriptions are approximate.

David Quinn (Term Expires: 2026)
District 1 - Bogue/Cape Carteret/Peletier

Chuck Shinn (Term Expires: 2026)
District 2 - Newport

Chimer Clark (Term Expires: 2028)
District 3 - Morehead City/Broad Creek

Mark Mansfield (Term Expires: 2026)
District 3 - Morehead City/Broad Creek

Marianne Waldrop (Term Expires: 2028)
District 4 - Cedar Point/Bogue Banks

Keith Moore (Term Expires: 2028)
District 5 - Beaufort/Radio Island/West of Hwy 101

Chris Chadwick (Term Expires: 2026)
District 6 - Down East/Merrimon/East of Hwy 101

Important Phone Numbers

Emergency & Helplines

Police/Fire/Ambulance
Call or text 911

24-Hour Non-Emergency Line
(252) 726-1911

24-Hour Rape Crisis Line
(252) 725-4040

Animal Control
(252) 728-8585

Post-Overdose Response Team
(252) 247-1129

NC211 - 24-Hour Free Health
& Human Services Hotline
Call 211

CodeRed Emergency Notifications
Sign up at CarteretCountyNC.gov

County Services

Municipal contact information can
be found under “Governments.”

A full listing of county services is at
CarteretCountyNC.gov.

Administration/Tax Office
(252) 728-8485 | CarteretCountyNC.gov

Sheriff’s Office
(252) 728-8400

Carteret County Courthouse
(252) 504-4400

Social Services
(252) 728-3181

Register of Deeds
(252) 728-8474

Veterans’ Services
(252) 728-8440

Senior Services
(252) 247-2626

Solid Waste & Recycling
(252) 648-7878

Health Department/WIC Services
(252) 728-8550

Environmental Health
(252) 728-8499

Public Works/Mosquito Spraying
(252) 648-7878

CCATS Public Transportation
(252) 240-1043

Board of Elections
(252) 728-8460

Public Information Office
(252) 360-4164

Utilities

Municipal contact information can
be found under “Governments.”

Duke Energy
Report outage: text 57801, call (800) 419-6356
Customer service: (800) 452-2777

Carteret Craven Electric Co-Op
Report outage: text OUT to (800) 682-2217
24-Hour Line: (252) 247-3107

Ribbon Cuttings

Celebrating Your Milestones, Growing Your Business

A new beginning. A major milestone. A well-earned expansion. Whatever the occasion, a Chamber ribbon cutting is more than just a photo op — it’s a powerful way to introduce your business to the community and make lasting connections.

From grand openings to 30-year anniversaries, we love celebrating our members’ success with a big yellow ribbon, an even bigger pair of scissors and plenty of smiling faces. When you see a yellow ribbon blowing in the breeze, stop by and join the celebration. Every ribbon cutting is a reminder that when one business grows, the whole community benefits!

Business After Hours

When people ask, “What does the Chamber do?”
we could list our programs, initiatives and advocacy efforts. But at the heart of it all, there’s one simple truth: We foster connections.

Business After Hours is where those connections come to life. Every month, local business owners, professionals and organization leaders come together to mix, mingle and make things happen. Deals are made, collaborations are born, and new opportunities take shape — all in a relaxed, welcoming environment.

Each Business After Hours event is hosted by a different Chamber member, and no two are alike! From bowling lanes to beach music socials, hosts put their own creative spin on the experience — and their business stays in the spotlight.

Not a Chamber member yet? Come as a guest! Experience the energy, the camaraderie and the value of membership firsthand.

Military Affairs Committee

The Military Affairs Committee (MAC) proudly serves, honors and celebrates the active-duty personnel and families of Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point and the U.S. Coast Guard. Through an ambitious array of programs, the MAC demonstrates Carteret County’s deep gratitude for their service.

Each quarter, the MAC recognizes service members who go above and beyond with volunteer community work in Carteret County by presenting them with the Service Person of the Quarter award. Honorees receive a letter of commendation, a $300 check and an American flag to display with pride.

The MAC also brings joy to military families with two signature events each year: a fishing day where every child leaves with a fishing rod and a day of fun at Cape Lookout capped off with a classic Eastern North Carolina Pig Pickin’. Guests enjoy gift giveaways courtesy of Chamber member businesses, ensuring everyone goes home with a token of appreciation.

In December, MAC spreads holiday cheer with Cookies for the Troops, a beloved tradition that delivers home-baked cookies to service members working through the Christmas holiday. These programs and events are entirely funded by the generosity of our annual Star Sponsors.

Mission Statement

“To strengthen relationships between the military and the local business community.”

Connect Carteret Young Professionals

Find your people, build your future

Success isn’t just about what you know — it’s about who’s in your corner. Connect Carteret brings together professionals ages 21 to 45 who want to expand their networks, build friendships and grow alongside people who share their ambition and energy. Whether you’re new to the area or a lifelong local looking to deepen your connections, this is where professional meets personal and where community becomes camaraderie.

Through social gatherings, service projects and professional development opportunities, Connect Carteret helps members strengthen their careers while also making meaningful contributions to the community. From hosting the annual Claus Crawl fundraiser to launching ConnectEd for future young professionals, we’re not just networking — we’re building something bigger, together.

If you’re looking for a place to connect, collaborate and belong, Connect Carteret is for you.

Mission Statement

Providing career minded individuals in Carteret County with opportunities to cultivate new relationships, develop personally and professionally
and support the community.

Chamber Events & Committees

Annual Chamber Events

At the Carteret County Chamber, we’re always on the move — whether it’s packing up for an unforgettable Leadership Carteret experience or unloading a fresh batch of Christmas cookies for the troops at Cherry Point. From business networking to military appreciation and community celebrations, here’s a look at the signature events that keep us busy all year long.

January | Leadership Carteret begins

February | Celebrating Business Awards

March | Leadership Carteret Graduation

April | Business After Hours Expo

May | Military Family Fishing Day, Legislative Lunch

July | Connect Carteret Night Out with the Marlins

August | Reverse Drawing Fundraiser

September | MAC Tour of MCAS Cherry Point,
Military Fun Day at the Cape

October | State of the Community Breakfast

December | Cookies for the Troops, Claus Crawl

Chamber Committees

With nearly 800 member organizations and thousands of staff and volunteers driving success across the Crystal Coast, it takes teamwork to make an impact. That’s where our Chamber Committees come in. From shaping policy to fostering leadership and community connections, these committees are the backbone of our Chamber — powered by dedicated Board Members and volunteers who bring passion, expertise and vision to the table.

• Ambassadors Club

• Executive Committee

• Governance Committee

• Development Committee

• Finance Committee

• Public & Legislative Affairs Committee

• Military Affairs Committee

• Connect Carteret Young Professionals Steering Committee

• Leadership Carteret Steering Committee

Looking to get more involved? Joining a committee is a great way to make your voice heard, connect with fellow professionals and help shape the future of Carteret County.

Celebrating Business Awards

Celebrating Excellence

Each year, the Chamber rolls out the red carpet for the Celebrating Business Awards, shining a spotlight on the businesses, organizations and individuals who go above and beyond to shape a thriving Crystal Coast. On February 25, the Chamber gathered at the stunning DoubleTree by Hilton Atlantic Beach Oceanside for an inspiring luncheon and awards ceremony, recognizing this year’s nine outstanding winners, who exemplify innovation, leadership and community impact, driving the growth and success of our local business landscape.

Duke Energy Citizenship and Service Award

Ashley & Red Harrell
Gaffer’s Restaurant Emerald Isle

Giving Hope Award

Crystal Coast Cancer Rehab Center

Small Business of the Year

Complexion Med Spa

New Business of the Year

Carteret County Concierge, LLC

Citizen of the Year

Alan Leary
Leadership Carteret Facilitator, Co-Chair

Young Professional of the Year

Sharii Phelps
First Citizens Bank, Connect Carteret Chair

Extraordinary Chamber Leadership Award

Tina Purifoy
Crystal Coast Civic Center, Chamber Board of Directors Treasurer

Ambassador of the Year

Sue Schurer
Honey Baked Ham Company of Morehead City

“I am truly honored to receive the Extraordinary Chamber Leadership Award. I’ve been volunteering with the Chamber in various capacities for over 25 years. The organization’s commitment and determination to enhance the business climate in Carteret County continue to inspire me. Thank you for the recognition; I could not be prouder of the work we accomplish together.”

­­— Tina Purifoy

“I’m very thankful for my recognition as this year’s Young Professional of the year. This award is not just mine but the whole Connect Carteret Family...Just like our community we are all pieces of the puzzle to make our everyday lives just a little bit easier. We are nothing without our village!”

— Sharii Phelps

“I am honored and humbled by this award, which I accept on behalf of all the good people of Carteret County who understand and practice the “giving back” that makes this place one of the best in the world to live, give and thrive!”

— Alan Leary

Leadership Carteret

Building Leaders, Strengthening Community

For 35 years, Leadership Carteret has been connecting professionals, broadening perspectives and deepening civic engagement. With nearly 1,200 alumni, the program has become a cornerstone of leadership development in our region. Every graduate will tell you — their class was the Best Class Ever!

Expanding to a 12-week format in 2024, the program now offers a more immersive experience. After an orientation day that includes a 12-foot challenge wall at Camp Albemarle, participants embark on weekly field experiences, meeting community leaders, tackling pressing local issues and engaging in hands-on service projects.

What’s a Leadership
Carteret Day Like?

Each week, the class dives into a different aspect of Carteret County, from economic development to public services, history and environmental stewardship. Here’s a snapshot of what they experience:

State of the Community Day kicks off with a team trivia challenge, an inside look at the Chamber’s role and a deep dive into local housing, industry and resilience efforts.

County Services Day brings participants face-to-face with healthcare leaders, emergency responders and public health professionals, all while squeezing in some time to visit adoptable pets at the local humane society.

Morehead City Day explores the town’s thriving waterfront culture, from the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament to its vibrant arts scene.

Newport Day offers an inside look at local industries, from renewable energy to manufacturing, as well as a stop at Shortway Brewing to learn about small business entrepreneurship.

Down East Day immerses the class in the heart of the region’s rich maritime heritage, with a visit to the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and a ferry ride to Cape Lookout.

Cherry Point Day provides a behind-the-scenes tour of MCAS Cherry Point, showcasing its vital role in national defense.

Beaufort Day explores one of North Carolina’s most historic towns, with stops at the NC Maritime Museum, NOAA’s research facility and Jarrett Bay Boatworks.

Every session is designed to challenge perspectives, build connections and inspire leadership that makes a difference.

Reverse Drawing

Raise a Glass, Raise Funds, Win 10 Grand at the Reverse Drawing

Each August, Chamber members and the public are invited to sip, savor and tear up the dance floor at the Reverse Drawing to support our goal of helping local businesses thrive.

Because it’s the Chamber’s only annual fundraiser, we pull out all the stops to make it a vibrant showcase of local caterers, entertainers, décor and more, as well as a silent auction where members contribute unique items and experiences to connect with the community and highlight their services.

If a themed evening of music and masquerading for a worthy cause isn’t enough to lure you in, we’ve got another irresistible temptation: the chance to win $10,000 in cold, hard cash. How do you win? Buy a ticket. Show up. Cross your fingers. We pull names/numbers throughout the evening to eliminate participants from the running. The last name remaining wins the grand prize. If you get eliminated early, never fear. Pick up a few second chance tickets to get back in the running.

Business After Hours Expo

Part B2B networking event, part business expo and part social hour, the annual Business After Hours Expo is one of the Chamber’s most engaging and well-attended gatherings. With over 60 exhibitors and hundreds of professionals and community members in attendance, it’s the perfect opportunity to build connections, explore local commerce and uncover new opportunities.

In addition to showcasing a diverse mix of businesses and nonprofits, the Expo now features a fast-paced speed networking activity designed to help attendees make meaningful connections in a short amount of time. Whether you’re a business owner looking to expand your reach, a professional seeking career opportunities or simply interested in discovering what Carteret County has to offer, this event provides valuable face-to-face interactions in a welcoming and lively setting.

Attendees enjoy complimentary food and drinks, grab giveaways from exhibitors and enter to win exclusive prizes. Many exhibitors also showcase job opportunities, business collaborations and special promotions, making this event an excellent place to explore both career and business growth possibilities.

Entry to the Expo is just $5, and Chamber members receive discounted exhibitor rates. Whether you’re looking to expand your business, grow your professional network or take the next step in your career, the Business After Hours Expo is the perfect place to make it happen.