TheCornelius

Harnett County’s Employee Newsletter May 2015 Cornelius who? About this Newsletter: The Cornelius is Harnett County’s monthly You’ve heard Harnett County’s sentatives representing Cumberland employee newsletter. The goal of this motto – “Strong Roots, New County. Coffield owned a large newsletter is to connect you, Harnett Growth.” This newsletter takes its estate and winery in what is now the name from the first part of that mot- Chalybeate Springs community of County’s employees, with one another, to and Harnett County’s beginning. Harnett County. In one of his first bring you interesting information on Har- Harnett County was named for Rev- acts as a member of the General nett County’s history, familiarize you with olutionary War hero Cornelius Har- Assembly, Coffield introduced legis- nett, who lived in Wilmington. lation to form a new county in north- all Harnett County has to offer its employ- Nicknamed the “Pride of the ern Cumberland County, to be called ees and citizens, and keep you informed of Cape Fear,” Harnett was a leader in Harnett in honor of his famous an- important information. If there’s anything several protests against British taxa- cestor. The bill was approved on tion on the American colonies in the February 7, 1855, and Harnett Coun- you would like to see in future editions of years that preceded the Revolution ty was established. this newsletter, please send an email to and was a founding member of the The first site selected as the [email protected]. , a group that formed county seat was located near Sum- to protest the Stamp Act in merville Church just above Lilling- 1765. The Stamp Act was the first ton. The site was named Toomer in direct tax placed on the colonies by honor of Judge John D. Toomer of Connect With the British government. Because of Fayetteville, who was an Associate his efforts for the cause of independ- Justice of the Su- Harnett County ence, Harnett was arrested and im- preme Court and served in the state prisoned by the British in 1781. He senate. Some in Harnett County served in the were not pleased with the name or Want to keep up with the after the Revolution. location of the county seat, so in latest news and happenings in Prior to 1855, present day Har- 1859, the legislature allowed resi- Harnett County? nett County was part of Cumberland dents to vote on a referendum pro- County, which was established in posing to move the county seat to a Check out www.harnett.org for 1754 as large numbers of Scottish new location. The referendum was news releases, important up- immigrants settled along the Cape approved and a new county seat was Fear River in northern Bladen Coun- chosen. Lillington was named in dates, a community calendar and ty. In the years that followed, resi- honor of Alexander Lillington of other information. dents in northern Cumberland Coun- Wilmington, who was one of the ty wanted to form a county of their Patriot commanders at the Battle of You can also like “Harnett County own, however counties back then Moore’s Creek Bridge in 1776. Government on Facebook or fol- were established to accommodate In naming this employee news- low @HarnettCounty on Twitter increases in population. It wasn’t letter after Harnett County’s name- until the mid-nineteenth century that sake, we want to highlight Harnett or “Harnett County” on Instagram the population in the area grew to County’s rich heritage, which is to stay up-to-date on all things the point of justifying the creation of something we can all be proud of. Harnett County. a new county. This information comes from In the election of 1854, Cor- The Heritage of Harnett County nelius Harnett Coffield, a descendent North Carolina, Volume 1, which of Cornelius Harnett, was elected to was published in 1993 by the Herit- the North Carolina House of Repre- age of Harnett Book Committee.

Volume I, Issue I Page 1 Harnett County’s Employee Newsletter May 2015 Department Spotlight Harnett County Parks & Recreation

As temperatures rise and warm, sunny days become more routine, you may be tempted to pack up the car and head to the beach or mountains or somewhere out of state to soak up the sun and enjoy nature, but there’s plenty to do in your own back yard and one Harnett County department has a lot to do with that. Harnett County Parks & Recreation is made up of three full-time employees and up to five additional part-time employees in peak season. The department supervises more than 1,100 acres of park land com- prised of five parks including Neill’s Creek County Park, Barbecue Creek County Park, South Harnett Park, Anderson Creek County Park and the Cape Fear River Trail Park, along with the Anderson Creek Senior Cen- ter. The department plans to soon open an access point on the Upper Little River near Lillington. Carl Davis has served as Harnett Coun- ty’s Parks & Recreation Director since 2010. Parks & Recreation, they think of youth the opportunity to experience the abundance He came to Harnett County in 2008 to work sports programs, but in Harnett County, of natural resources we have here. under then-Director Alice Powell. Since those functions are carried out by the munic- Davis said he sees his mission as im- Davis’ arrival, the county has opened two ipalities and a group of citizens in western proving the overall quality of life for the new parks – the Cape Fear River Trail Park Harnett County. people of Harnett County. He said outdoor and Anderson Creek County Park – and Since 2008, Davis said Parks and Recre- recreation plays a major role in improving completed a $1 million renovation at Barbe- ation has focused more on park development people’s lives. Parks positively impact cue Creek County Park. The bulk of this and maintenance than on recreational pro- health and give people a place to socialize new development has been done without grams, but that’s something that’s changing and connect with the natural world. Parks county tax dollars, using Parks and Recrea- with the addition of Recreation Program even impact Economic Development efforts tion Trust Fund (PARTF) grants. Supervisor Drew Bryant last October. Bry- as industries looking to come to Harnett Davis said when most people think of ant’s job is to boost the county’s recreational County and their future employees are programming. drawn to a vibrant recreation system. Among activities the park has taken on “Our parks are places where people of is the Movies in the Park series, which re- all ages, races and economic status can cently wrapped up its spring series. Another come together to enjoy what our county has series is slated to be held this fall with the to offer,” said Davis. “It doesn’t matter of event becoming a semi-annual activity. you’re rich or poor, you can enjoy a park.” Harnett County also takes part in the In developing future parks and ameni- Mid-Carolina Senior Games and hosts nu- ties, Davis said he wants to continue utiliz- merous events for senior citizens each year. ing the county’s natural resources, particu- A senior golf tournament is held in the fall larly the Cape Fear River. Future parks will and the park also organizes a trip to the protect the county’s natural areas and make North Carolina State Fair for senior citizens. them available to all residents. Davis said Harnett County also facilitates a group natural parks are places that encourage im- of disc golf enthusiasts who meet frequently agination, where people can use their imagi- to play at Anderson Creek County Park. nation. This fall, Harnett County will partner in For more information on Parks and Rec- starting an adult softball league for residents reation in Harnett County, go to age 16 and older. A competitive running www.harnett.org/parkrec/. You can also event is also in the works. follow “Harnett County Parks and Recrea- For the most part, however, the focus of tion” on Facebook to stay connected with Harnett County Parks & Recreation is on ongoing events and important information giving residents and visitors to the county about the department, events and programs.

Volume I, Issue I Page 2 Harnett County’s Employee Newsletter May 2015 County Launches Land Use and Economic Development Plan

If you were asked what you would like to see happen in Harnett County in the coming years, what would you say? That’s the question county officials want help answering as they kick off development of a Comprehensive Land Use and Economic Development Strate- gic Plan that will help shape the future of Harnett County. The purpose of the plan is to estab- lish a number of achievable short- and long-term goals based on the input of Harnett County’s residents for county leaders to work towards to get the great- est benefit out of planning and econom- ic development efforts. The plan will be forward thinking and will address antic- ipated growth and development in a way that preserves community charac- ter, reduces sprawl, maximizes existing infrastructure, considers environmental pal Issues, Transportation and Utilities. meetings will be held as the plan devel- impacts and improves quality of life for The kick-off session culminated ops and a second public workshop will all Harnett County residents. with the first meeting of a 25-person be held in June to give Harnett County The county has hired award-winning Advisory Committee, which is made up residents another opportunity to have land planning and design firm LandDe- of leaders from across Harnett County their voices heard and to see how the sign and Ted Abernathy of Economic who will help steer the creation of the plan is developing. Leadership LLC to lead the creation of Land Use and Economic Development Once completed, the plan will be the plan. plan. adopted by the Harnett County Board of The planning process officially A public workshop was held April Commissioners and will provide direc- kicked off in March with focus groups 23 at the Government Complex Com- tion to county officials, staff, residents, meeting to discuss a range of topics mons Area where the consultants and businesses and developers on how to including Industry, Small Business, county officials received input from implement the county’s goals. Education, Cultural Resources, Agricul- residents on what they want to see hap- To keep up with the plan’s progress ture, Health, Real Estate and Develop- pen in Harnett County. or for additional information, go ment, Civic and Social Issues, Munici- Additional Advisory Committee to www.harnett.org/growth.

Truesdale Appointed to State Veterans Group

Harnett County Veterans Services Truesdale has been with Harnett Director Eric Truesdale has been appoint- County Veterans Services since 1996. He ed by North Carolina Governor Pat is retired as a senior master sergeant with McCrory to serve a two-year term on the the United States Air Force where he Governor’s Working Group on Veterans, served at Pope Air Force Base as a chief Service Members and their Families, loadmaster for the C-130 aircraft. which was established to bring veteran He is a member of American Legion support agencies across the state together Post 28 in Lillington, Disabled American to better meet the needs of North Caroli- Veterans Chapter 74 in Erwin, Veterans na’s veterans and their families. Members of Foreign Wars Post 6722 in Lillington, will advise the governor on issues facing Masonic Lodge No. 302 in Lillington and local veterans. the Harnett County Shrine Club. He at- “This is an opportunity to put every- tends Kipling United Methodist Church body together as one team ... and I look and is married to Kimberly Hendricks forward to being part of that,” said Trues- Truesdale with two daughters and seven dale. grandchildren.

Volume I, Issue I Page 3 Harnett County’s Employee Newsletter May 2015

Know More About Your Money Upcoming Events

How well do you understand Budget: Develop healthy financial  The Lillington Community your finances? Start by taking the routines by paying attention to how Blood Drive will be held Thurs- mystery out of planning for financial you spend your money. This is a success. Improve your financial good way to ensure that you are not day, May 14 from 1 to 5:30 knowledge and learn to manage your spending beyond your means. Track- p.m. in the Government Com- money more effectively. ing where your money goes allows plex Commons Area. The blood you to see where you can cut back drive is sponsored by Harnett Know more, plan better and save more. Improving your financial County Public Health and Har- knowledge takes much of the mys- Save: Plan for both the expected and nett County RSVP. To make an tery out of establishing and practic- the unexpected. Contribute as much appointment, call 893-7578. ing good financial habits, such as as you can to your supplemental re- planning early for retirement and tirement plans or to an Individual  The 21st annual RSVP Senior preparing for the knowns and un- Retirement Account (IRA). This way Citizen’s Fair will be held Thurs- knowns in your financial life. Finan- your funds can grow tax-deferred cial planning isn’t just for “wealthy over time and will be available when day, May 21 from 10 a.m. until folks.” It allows you to look beyond you retire. 2 p.m. at the Dunn Community today, and begin to think about to- Build an emergency fund and Center at 205 Jackson Road, morrow and the future. save for the financial boomerangs With that in mind, consider these you can’t see coming. It’s a good Dunn. For more information, factors to get the maximum benefits idea to set aside six months worth of contact Harnett County RSVP at out of your financial plan. expenses. And if you can spare it, 893-7579. add more to cover insurance deducti- Plan: Plan for the future with do-it- bles and unexpected major medical  Harnett County Economic De- yourself online personal finance ser- expenses! Over time, your savings velopment’s Industry Apprecia- vices. Start with an assessment of can make a positive difference in where you stand today. Then take your future lifestyle. tion Golf Tournament will be inventory of what you have and what held Thursday, May 21 at Chic- you owe then focus on where you Review: Whether you manage your ora Country Club in Erwin. This want to be. You can take a financial money yourself or opt to get help event was previously held in snapshot and plan to achieve goals from a professional, take a step back with the help of online personal fi- from time-to-time to check in on the fall, but has been moved to nance services. your financial goals. Are you head- the spring. Look for a service that allows ing in the right direction? Do you you to create detailed charts and need to make adjustments? Think  This year’s Wings Over Harnett graphs about your finances such as about where you want to be and what fly-in will be held Saturday, Oc- managing debt, creating budgets or it will take to make that happen. tober 17 at the Harnett Region- tracking your net worth. Your infor- The more you know about man- mation is available in real-time, so aging your money, the easier it will al Jetport. Last year’s event far you can make comparisons and see be to improve your money situation exceeded expectations and we your goals progress. as your wealth grows. look forward to an even better event this year with more air- planes, more food vendors and more entertainment. This is a free event. If you know of any important events for June or the coming months that need to be included in this newsletter, please email them to [email protected].

Volume I, Issue I Page 4 Harnett County’s Employee Newsletter May 2015

Burgin Named to State Council on Health

Board of Commissioners Chairman Jim Burgin has been appointed to serve on the North Carolina State Health Coordi- nating Council by Governor Pat McCrory. His term will end Dec. 31, 2017. Chairman Burgin was elect- ed to the board of commission- ers in 2008 and is serving his second term. He is president and owner of C&D Insurance and Insurance Network Group. He is chairman of the board for New Horizon Insurance Group and president of B.C. Property Inc., a real estate development company. He is also a partner Meet Harnett County’s with John Hiester Automotive. Chairman Burgin serves on the boards of Trian- Two Newest Commissioners gle Workforce Development, Mid Carolina Council of Government, Central Carolina Community Col- Harnett County’s leadership prove the lives of Harnett Coun- lege, NC Association of County Commissioners and changed last December after ty’s residents. She said she is First Bank. He and his wife, Ann, have been mar- two new members were elected especially interested in Eco- ried 34 years and have three children and two to the Harnett County Board of nomic Development and bring- grandchildren. He is an elder at Crossroads Baptist Commissioners. Commissioner ing more jobs to Harnett Coun- Church in Lillington. Barbara McKoy represents Dis- ty, and in making sure every trict 1 and Commissioner Abe child in Harnett County receives Elmore represents District 2. a quality education. Elmore Receives Award Commissioner McKoy was Commissioner Elmore has born and raised in Lillington. owned and operated Elmore From Dunn Chamber She is a retired business agent Furniture for more than 60 for Workers United and is a years. He currently operates licensed cosmetologist. She has stores in Dunn and Pinehurst. been a community activist in He previously served as mayor Harnett County for more than of Dunn for 16 years. He is a 20 years. She has served on member of the Sudan Shriners numerous state and county and the Kiwanis Club of Dunn, boards and helped found multi- and one of his greatest joys is ple organizations including the serving on the board of the Bap- Harnett County Food Pantry and tist Children’s Home of NC. Lillington United Police Athlet- He and his wife, Jackie, ic League. She helped organize have been married 61 years and the Harnett County Council for have four children, 10 grand- Women and is a past president children and 13 great- of the organization. She serves grandchildren. He is a member on the Harnett Health System of Westfield Baptist Church in Board of Trustees. Dunn. She and her husband, Willie, Elmore said he enjoys serv- have been married for 50 years ing the citizens of Harnett Commissioner Abe Elmore received the Beauti- and have two sons. She attends County and he is excited to be fication Award during this year’s Dunn Area Lillington Grove Free Will Bap- part of making a better Harnett Chamber of Commerce awards banquet. The tist Church where she serves as County for future generations. award recognized improvements Commissioner a trustee. He said he has been impressed Elmore made to the exteriors of more than a As a county commissioner, with the experience level of dozen buildings he owns in Downtown Dunn. McKoy said her goal is to im- Harnett County’s employees.

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