October 2022

Slow down, appreciate life…and LIVE EASY!

Miles of walking trails and golf cart friendly streets connect directly to onsite shopping, dining, and medical offices. Enjoy neighborhood socials, food trucks, community events, and making new friendships. Relax at the pool, join a fitness class, or sign the kids up for sports programs at the onsite East Triangle YMCA. All with NO CITY TAXES!

IT’S ALL HERE AT FLOWERS PLANTATION.

Let's have the Christmas tree debate

OF

When wildlife decides to visit

Fall Guide

Ava Gardner Festival announces film screenings

Harvest Festival Guide

BD to invest at Four Oaks Business Park

Clayton splash pad provides fun, entertainment

LET’S HAVE THE CHRISTMAS TREE DEBATE

On Monday, Sept. 6, something happened at the Capps house that probably didn’t happen in too many other places around Johnston County.

We put up our Christmas tree. Now, this is an annual source of amusement for my friends on Facebook and it plays out as follows:

“Wow, that’s too early to put up a tree.” Or, “hey, what about Halloween?”

Some folks even post passive aggressive memes about a cartoon turkey telling Santa to stay on his page of the calendar. Other creative, free thinkers admire our creativity.

My theory is a simple one. If, by the simple act of getting a tree out of our storage unit and rearranging our living

room, I can be a little happier, why would I wait until Thanksgiving?

Sitting in my chair at night, when everyone else is sleeping or otherwise occupied, I can squint my eyes a bit while I watch the tree spin. Yes, our tree spins. But that’s a column for another day.

It’s a simple thing, but it always makes me smile. And I don’t know about you guys, but when I find a surefire way to be happy in this crazy world, I’m doing it for as often and as long as I can.

Hence, the Labor Day tree tradition. Now, we haven’t put up the porch lights, the stockings or the Christmas dragon yet. We’re not crazy.

Wait. You mean you don’t have a

Christmas dragon?

You should get one. They’re fun.

So, while the rest of you drink pumpkin spice lattes and carve up pumpkins, I’m going to watch football in my living room with my rotating tree.

Do whatever it takes to find joy, my friends. As Buddha once said, “there is no path to happiness. Happiness is the path.”

Johnston

Magazine

publication

for

Johnston County neighbors.

part

validity

WHEN WILDLIFE DECIDES TO VISIT

Sometimes, things that normally live in the great outdoors decide they want to see what life is like in the great indoors.

On a recent early morning, I had such a visitor. The night started normally. I watched the U.S. Open tennis tournament until I could no longer stay awake, and sauntered off to bed around 11.

MIKE BOLLINGER mike@johnstonnow.com

could think to look. I found nothing.

Convincing myself the cricket was outside and very close to the house, I went back to bed. I was there about 30 seconds when the loud chirping started again.

The search resumed. Finally, in a corner of the living room, there it was. The offending cricket.

no sleep or, unfortunately, resorting to alternate measures.

Subsequent research has told me that it’s very lucky to have a cricket in your house. This one was black, which symbolizes knowledge, according to feng-shui. lovetoknow.com. A black cricket in the home is said to be a message to dig deeper for the solution to a problem.

At about 3:30, I was awakened by a loud chirping noise. I quickly determined this noise to be a cricket. At first, I decided it was either right outside my bedroom window or right outside the back door. I rolled over and tried to go back to sleep, but the chirping wouldn’t allow it.

Once I was awake enough to figure out where the noise was coming from, I decided the cricket was in the house somewhere. So, I got up, grabbed a flashlight, and began the search. I looked behind all the furniture, in the kitchen cabinets, and everywhere else I

I began to formulate a plan on how to corral it with the goal of catching it and putting it outside. I made a couple of attempts, but crickets jump. This makes them pretty hard to catch. In my case, this made it impossible to catch.

I wanted to return the cricket to its natural habitat. I also wanted to sleep.

Knowing there are a lot of insects that have a short life span, I decided to look up the life span of a cricket to see if I could just let it chirp until it expired.

I found the life span of a cricket to be, on average, 90 days. I tried to ask the cricket how old it was, but I didn’t get any response. I finally decided it was either

I do have a couple of things I’ve been trying to figure out how to deal with, so maybe I’ll take this sign and start to think harder about how to handle them.

In the meantime, hopefully the wildlife will decide to remain outside the house.

Get out and enjoy festival season

I should start with a confession. I usually skip fall celebrations.

My Christmas tree went up on Labor Day. So we tend to transition straight from summer to the holiday season at my house.

That being said, aside from football, there are fall events locally that I really enjoy.

The return of the International Food Festival (Oct. 1) has been circled on my calendar for a while. The event, like many others, has been affected by COVID in recent years, but it’s always one of my favorites. Even if there wasn’t a silent auction and live entertainment, the food alone would be worth the trip over to St. Ann Catholic Church.

To give you a taste of what you might expect — see what I did there — here’s some of what they had on offer at a recent festival: Crepes (France), poulet roti (roast chicken, Haiti), egg rolls (Philippines) and our family favorite, empanadas from Venezuela.

And that’s barely scratching the surface.

After you get your fill of culinary delights from around the world, you can chug on over for the 47th annual Selma Railroad Days Festival (Oct. 8-9). Yes, that’s another pun, but what’s not corny is the jam packed schedule of events going on in Selma that weekend.

Of course, there’s the parade, the My Kid’s Club 5K Run/Walk, the Selma Firefighters Association BBQ

Cookoff (Friday, Oct. 7), food trucks, entertainment, bounce houses and way too many other things to list here.

Visit selma-nc.com/programs/parks-rec/ railroad-days-festival or check out their ad on Page 8 to learn more.

If that sounded like a bountiful cornucopia of festival fun — last pun, I promise — then the Clayton Harvest Festival will serve up more fun on the last weekend of the month. The middle of this edition serves as the official festival guide, and as you can see, there’s a ton to see and do in Clayton on festival weekend.

The same can be said for Johnston County in the month of October. Read on, and see what I mean.

— RANDY CAPPS

FALL GUIDE

FESTIVALS

SATURDAY, OCT. 1, 11 A.M.

International Food Festival

St. Ann Catholic Church, U.S. 70 Bus. W, Clayton St. Ann Catholic Church will host the annual International Food Festival Saturday, Oct. 1 from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. There will be food from many countries, a silent auction, entertainment and more. For more information, contact Dan Smith at 919-255-0285 or by email at dtsmith333@ yahoo.com, Anna Martinez at 919-437-5047 or visit www.internationalfoodfestival.net.

OCT. 7-9

Ava Gardner Festival

Ava Gardner Museum, Market Street, Smithfield

The Ava Gardner Museum hosts an annual festival in honor of the extraordinary life of the legendary actress, fashion icon and humanitarian Ava Gardner. This years festival, scheduled for October 7-9, will include a multitude of exciting events. Join the museum staff and board as they unveil new exhibits, conduct heritage tours, host special film and video presentations and much more to celebrate the Ava 100th Centennial. Admission fees apply for the museum and heritage tours. Tickets for the concert, A Musical Tribute to Ava Gardner at The Clayton Center on Friday, October 7 will be available only through the ticket office at the Clayton Center.

OCT. 7-9

Selma Railroad Days

Uptown Selma

Follow the tracks to the 47th Annual Selma Railroad Days Festival! This unique festival allows rail fans of all ages to see, learn and celebrate the history of the railway and its importance to Selma. Rail fans can shop til they drop on Raiford Street, chew chew until their engines are full at the food trucks and dance the day and night away with live entertainment for all three days and more. Events will include a parade, the My Kids Club Annual Railroad Days 5K Run/Walk, the Selma Firefighters Association BBQ Cookoff,

little engineers stations, the Chew Chew Food Truck Rodeo, many vendors, the crowning of Miss Hispanic Heritage Johnston County, inflatables, live entertainment, a community stage, model trains and much more.

SATURDAY, OCT. 15, 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M.

Town of Princeton Fall Festival Center Street, Princeton Enjoy arts and craft vendors, shopping, food and fun. Visit www.myprincetonnc.com for more details.

OCT. 27-30

2022 Clayton Harvest Festival

Downtown Clayton

The 2022 Clayton Chamber of Commerce Clayton Harvest Festival is a free, four-day event that incorporates a midway full of carnival rides, a classic car show, a Latin American Festival, the Squealin on the Square BBQ cook off, a 100-booth vendor fair, and other community-focused events, food, music and fun. On Thursday, Oct. 27, the event will include Family Night at Town Square, midway rides and games and a movie night featuring Hocus Pocus at 6:30. For more information, visit www. claytonharvestfestival.com.

SATURDAY, OCT. 29 4 P.M.

2022 Pine Level Community Fall Festival U.S. 70-A, Pine Level

Don’t miss trunk-or-treating, games, inflatables, food trucks and more. This event is presented by the own of Pine Level and Playmates Child Care and Development Center.

SATURDAY, NOV. 5

Bentonville Battlefield Fall Festival

Bring the family and celebrate fall at Bentonville Battlefield. Planned activities include wagon rides, old timey kids games, music, townball (19th century baseball), historic demonstrations and more! Bring a blanket or chair and listen to live music. For more, visit www.fb.com/ BentonvilleSHS/events.

FALL VENUES

HALLOWEEN OBSERVANCES

Princeton — Town approved trick or treat hours are Oct. 31, 6-8 p.m.

Benson — Hallofest Trunk or Treat, Main Street, Friday, Oct. 28 6:308:30 p.m. To register to participate with a trunk full of candy or to print

out a registration form, visit www. townofbenson.com. Also, Benson Parks and Rec Movie Night in the Grove and Black and Orange Egg Hunt are set for Friday, Oct. 21 at 7 p.m.

Smithfield — Trick-or-treating within town limits will be held Oct. 31, 5-8 p.m.

Clayton — Downtown Clayton Trick or Treat, Horne Square, Oct. 31 5-7 p.m. Walk down Main Street

THINGS TO DO

SATURDAY, OCT. 1, 7 P.M.

Austin Irby “Unplugged”

Rudy Theatre, Selma

Enjoy Elvis tribute artist Austin Irby, backed by The Spin-Outs Tribute Band and special guest Dwight Boseman. For tickets, visit www. rudytheatre.com.

SUNDAY, OCT. 2, 6 P.M.

The King’s Messengers

Praise Sanctuary Church, Barden St., Princeton The King’s Messengers, a southern gospel music

ministry based in Pikeville, will perform at Praise Sanctuary Church on Sunday, Oct. 2. The King’s Messengers have been traveling and performing for 44 years.

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 5, 12:30 P.M.

Fall Nature Play Days

Howell Woods, Four Oaks Come play with Howell Woods staff in their Nature PlaySpace! This free program will include extra materials to play with, from bubbles to sand

as local businesses hand out candy.

Selma — 2022 Trunk-or-Treat Event, Selma Civic Center, Friday, Oct. 28, 6-8 p.m. Free event with candy, games, etc. Costumes are welcome. For more information, call 919-975-1411.

toys and more. For more information, call 919938-0115 or email jtastoske@johnstoncc.edu.

FRIDAY, OCT. 7, 8 A.M.

Eighth Annual Live2Lead

The Clayton Center

The eighth annual Live2Lead event is coming to Clayton as a live simulcast event being broadcast from a stage in Atlanta and shown in hundreds of locations around the globe. In this event, Dr. John C. Maxwell and other world-class

Clayton Fear Farm — When the sun goes down, things get pretty scary. There’s a haunted hayride, and several other attractions designed to send a chill down your spine. To learn more, visit www.claytonfearfarm.com.

Sonlight Farms — Head on over to Kenly (any Saturday this month) to check out a corn maze, hayride, playground, concessions and more. For costs and other information, visit www.sonlightfarmsnc.com.

leaders will teach practical lessons designed to help individuals in all spheres of influence grow to their maximum potential. The Live2Lead experience is being brought to The Clayton Center Friday, Oct. 7 from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. by Eric J. Schmieder, a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team member. This year’s speaker lineup includes Maxwell, Patrick Lencioni, Eric Thomas, Dr. Tim Elmore and Doris Kearns Goodwin. At The Clayton Center, the event will include a livestream connection between attendees in Clayton and an event sponsored by Clive Harding, an MLCT member in Winter Haven, Fla. Attendees on site in both locations can share experiences and participate in two bonus leadership sessions. For more information, registration and tickets, visit www.l2lclayton.com.

FRIDAY, OCT. 7, 5 P.M.

2022 Monster Truck Throwdown

GALOT MotorSports Park

Monster Truck Throwdown returns to GALOT Motorsports Park in Benson. Don’t miss Monster Truck Throwdown superstars Avenger, Brutus, Virginia Giant and more! To learn more, visit www. galotmotorsportspark.com.

FRIDAY, OCT. 7, 6:30 P.M.

A Musical Tribute to Ava Gardner

The Clayton Center

Billed as A Musical Tribute to Ava Gardner, concert goers will experience a celebration of Ava’s life through music! Ava truly loved music from the big band sounds of her second husband, Artie Shaw, to the torch songs that Frank Sinatra was so famous for singing following their breakup. Enjoy this musical tribute to Ava with the N.C. Revelers Orchestra from Raleigh and featuring Broadway actor and singer John Arthur Greene and opera and jazz singer Angelique Alexander. This collaboration also includes Jonathan Levin, founder of The Clayton Piano Festival, with a medley of Ava’s movie songs and much more. Tickets are only available through The Clayton Center box office or online at www.theclaytoncenter. com. For more information, email dbtaylor@johnstoncountync.org or call 919-989-8687.

FRIDAY, OCT. 7, 7 P.M.

Fall Family Movie Night

Clayton General Store

Come out and welcome the Fall Family Movie Nights at the Clayton General Store. This will be movie night No. 3 of the series featuring “Hotel Transylvania.” There will be a food truck on site as well as the store will be open serving your favorite ice cream

and goodies. Learn more at www. fb.com/claytongeneralstore/ events.

SATURDAY, OCT. 8, 9 A.M.

Selma Saturdays Arts and Crafts Market

Gather with friends and enjoy live local entertainment and browse local artists and craftsmen. Shop local and support small businesses. The market is held on North Raiford Street on the second Saturday of the month. For complete information and/or to set up a booth, contact Selma Parks and Recreation department at 919-975-1411.

SATURDAY, OCT. 8, 1 P.M.

Third Annual Thornetoberfest

Double Barley, Hwy. 70, Smithfield

The 3rd Annual Thornetoberfest is set for Saturday, October 8 at Double Barley Brewing! To kick off the day, Proton Jones will be playing from 1-3 p.m. with his soulful voice and laid-back vibes. Gypsy Railroad will follow with an entertaining mix of classic rock, pop and country songs that will get your toes tapping. Finally, Kings of the Highway will be rocking the stage from 6-10 p.m. with an energetic show and great music from artists ranging from Queen to Lady Gaga. There will also be amazing German food including schweinebraten (German roasted pork), German sausages (bratwurst, weisswurst, knackwurst, bauernwurst), German potato salad, spaetzle (egg dumplings), red cabbage and pretzels with beer cheese (made with Double Barley beer). Of course, Double Barley will have a great selection of beer for purchase. This year, the event will help to raise funds for The American Cancer Society. For more details, visit www.fb.com/ DoubleBarley/events.

SUNDAY, OCT. 9, 2 P.M

OC Fest 2022

Downtown Clayton

The inaugural OC Fest 2022 in Downtown Clayton is open to the public. Enjoy Christian music including I Am They and others. Family-friendly activities include inflatables, face painting, vendor booths and food trucks. Reserve your free ticket today at www. onecompassion.org/oc-fest.

THURSDAY, OCT. 13, 6 P.M.

Sundown in Downtown - Liquid Pleasure

Benson Singing Grove Liquid Pleasure will take the stage to close out the 2022 Sundown in Downtown schedule. To learn more, visit www.benson-chamber. com.

FRIDAY, OCT. 14, 8 P.M. Kathy Mattea & Suzy Boggus

“Together At Last”

The Clayton Center Country and folk music legends, Kathy Mattea and Suzy Bogguss, join forces to share their celebrated music and personal chemistry on stage in their new show, Together at Last. The tour features both artists on stage for the entire performance, swapping songs and stories, singing harmony and playing guitar on each other’s biggest hits. For tickets, visit theclaytoncenter.com.

SATURDAY, OCT. 15, 8 A.M. McGee’s Crossroads Mustang Stampede 5K McGee’s Crossroads Middle School

McGee’s Crossroads Middle School will be hosting its second annual Mustang Stampede 5K. Help support this school fundraiser while enjoying an adventurous run. All ability levels are welcome, and participants can walk or run. All proceeds will help fund the school library and technology needs, along with teacher resources, student incentives, etc. For more information, visit McGee’s Crossroads Mustang Stampede 5K on Facebook.

SATURDAY, OCT. 15, 9 A.M. Feel the Burn 5K & 10K

Princeton Volunteer Fire Department

The 13th Annual Feel the Burn 5K/10K, the largest fundraiser of the year for Princeton Volunteer Fire Department, will be held Saturday, Oct. 15 beginning at 9 a.m. The 5K is certified by USA Track & Field. The 10K will consist of running the certified 5K twice. New this year, thanks to Run the East LLC, both the 5K and 10K will be chip timed. Registration will be $30 for the 5K and $35 for the 10K. First and second place for the 5K and the 10K will be awarded in several age divisions. To register, visit www.runsignup. com/Race and search for Feel the Burn 5K & 10K.

SATURDAY, OCT. 15, 9:30 A.M.

Fall Nature Play Days

Howell Woods, Four Oaks Come play with Howell Woods staff in their Nature PlaySpace! This free program will include extra materials to play with, from bubbles to sand toys and more.

A Play Day will be held Saturday, Oct. 15 from 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. For more information, call 919-938-0115 or email jtastoske@ johnstoncc.edu.

SATURDAY, OCT. 15, 10 A.M.

Costumes and Pony Rides at West Olive

Pasture Pals Equine Rescue, West Olive Rd., Clayton Pasture Pals Equine Rescue will

host Costumes and Pony Rides

Saturday, Oct. 15 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Pony rides, groom a pony, go out in the pasture with a volunteer and pumpkin carving and decorating will cost $5 each, petting zoo treats will be $1 and drinks and baked goods will be $1 each. For more information, email PasturePalsER@aol.com or visit www.pasturepalser.com.

SATURDAY, OCT. 15, NOON

Fall Fun Vendor Event

Archer Lodge Community Center

Come out and enjoy the Fall Fun Vendor Event on Saturday, October 15. They will also be selling Brunswick Stew, homemade ice cream and hot dogs. To learn more, visit www. fb.com/archerlodgecc/events.

SATURDAY, OCT. 15, NOON Oktoberfest

Deep River Brewing Company, Clayton

We love a good Weisen to party! Oktoberfest at Deep River Brewing Company is scheduled for October 15 from noon until 10 p.m. There will be food trucks, entertainment, live music and, of course, beer. Learn more at www.fb.com/DeepRiverBrewing/ events.

SATURDAY, OCT. 15, 1 P.M.

Fall Leaves Howell Woods, Four Oaks

Join Howell Woods staff as they celebrate the autumn season Saturday, Oct. 15 from 1-2 p.m. They will discuss why leaves change color, look at some common species and then go on a leaf hunt to make leaf sculptures and art. This program is suitable for ages 5 and up and costs $5. For more information and to register, visit www.johnstoncc. edu/howellwoods.

SATURDAY, OCT. 15, 7 P.M.

Remembering Red, a tribute to Red Skelton

Rudy Theatre, Selma Brian Hoffman of Pigeon Forge, Tenn., performs Remembering Red, A tribute to Red Skelton. One show only. For tickets, visit www.rudytheatre.com.

TUESDAY, OCT. 18, 4 P.M.

Mamm & Glam

Smithfield Ambulatory Imaging, N. Brightleaf Blvd., Smithfield Is it time for your annual mammogram screening? Come out from 4-6 p.m. Registration is required. No walk-ins available. Screening events include a combination of breast health information, blood pressure screening, a complimentary chair massage, refreshments and a swag bag. Call 919-938-7749 to register for an appointment.

THURSDAY, OCT. 20, 1 P.M. Community Science: Fall Series

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Howell Woods, Four Oaks

Join Howell Woods’ staff as they introduce a variety of citizen science projects this fall. The October project is ebird. Each project will focus on collecting data of the natural world and can be done anywhere. This program is suitable for ages 5 and up. The cost is $5. For more information and to register, visit www. johnstoncc.edu/howellwoods.

SATURDAY, OCT. 22, 7 P.M.

Allison Radcliffe

Rudy Theatre, Selma

Allison Radcliffe is a new country music artist who just signed with Iron Gate Records in Tennessee this year. She’s a hometown gal from N.C. who enjoys the simple things in life. Her first single, “That’s My Mama,” dropped May 1. For tickets, visit www. rudytheatre.com.

SUNDAY, OCT. 23, NOON

Food Truck Rodeo

Deep River Brewing Co., Clayton

A few of your favorite things: family, friends, food, music and brews — all in one place! Prepare to bring camping chairs and/or blankets if you’d like to hang in the field. Parents: drink your beer, socialize and supervise. Overflow parking is located across from the brewery on Moore St. Outside alcohol is not allowed on site. For more details, visit www.fb.com/

DeepRiverBrewing/events.

MONDAY, OCT. 24, 6:30 P.M. Owl Safari

Howell Woods, Four Oaks Join Howell Woods’ staff as they search for the elusive Barred Owl. They will introduce raptors, visit the Birds of Prey exhibit, and then take a truck ride to search for these nocturnal creatures! This program is suitable for ages 5 and up. The cost for this program is $5. For more information and to register, visit www.johnstoncc. edu/howellwoods.

THURSDAY, OCT. 27, 7 P.M.

Classics at the Barn with Sheng Cai

Twin Oaks Barn, Garner Described as having an inner passion paired with Rubinstein’s nonchalance by German newspapers, Canadian pianist Sheng Cai has embraced the keyboard tradition which epitomizes the greatness of the romantic virtuoso. Set in the rural beauty of the rustic Twin Oaks Barn, Sheng will present an exciting program of timeless classics, sure to thrill classical enthusiasts and newcomers alike. To learn more, visit www. claytonpianofestival.com.

FRIDAY, OCT. 28, 6 P.M. Third StrEATery featuring Blazin’ Keys, Dueling Pianos Downtown Smithfield

Come downtown with your family, meet up with your friends, get takeout from a downtown restaurant and visit Third Street to hear live music, shop from local businesses and have a beer or glass of wine! Afterward, catch a movie or enjoy drinks at one of the local restaurants or bars. The 100 block of S. Third Street will be closed, and tables and chairs will be set up in the street. North Carolina’s premier dueling pianos show, Blazin Keys, offers a high energy performance, a variety of musical selections, and they’re sure to get the crowd involved! For more, visit www.fb.com/ DowntownSmithfield/events.

SATURDAY, OCT. 29, 10 A.M. Trunk or Treat Vendor Event

Clayton General Store

Come out for the annual Clayton General Store Trunk or Treat event vendor style. They will have more than 20 vendors, food trucks and all your fall and holiday decor on site. Bring the kids dressed in costume and let them trick or treat with the vendors and store. For more, visit www. fb.com/claytongeneralstore/ events.

SATURDAY, OCT. 29, 5 P.M. Holt’s Pond Church Annual Auction

Progressive Church Road, Princeton

The Holt’s Pond Church of God of Prophecy Annual Auction is planned for Saturday, Oct. 29. Hotdogs will be served beginning at 5 p.m. and the auction will begin promptly at 6 p.m. Everyone is invited for a night guaranteed to be filled with a lot of laughs and fellowship. Gently used or new items can be dropped of at the fellowship hall.

SATURDAY, OCT. 29, 7 P.M. Mountain Highway bluegrass band

Rudy Theatre, Selma With a style all their own, Mountain Highway is an authentic young family band steeped in traditional bluegrass and gospel music originally made famous by icons like Bill Monroe, Flatt and Scruggs and Ralph Stanley. The band is comprised of four sibling singers who play banjo, fiddle, mandolin and guitar with their father playing upright bass. The group is often heralded for its tight family harmony. For more, visit www.rudytheatre.com.

SUNDAY, OCT. 30, 10:30 A.M. The King’s Messengers Selma Original FWB Church The King’s Messengers, a southern gospel music ministry based in Pikeville, will perform at Praise Sanctuary Church on Sunday, Oct. 2. The King’s

Messengers have been traveling and performing for 44 years.

MONDAY, OCT. 31, 9 A.M. Howell Woods Fall Day Camp Howell Woods is pleased to offer day camps full of outdoor fun and adventure this fall. A day camp will be held Monday, Oct. 31 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. The camp is for ages 8-12. The cost of this camp is $25. For more information please contact Howell Woods Director Jordan Astoske at 919-938-0115 or by email at jtastoske@johnstoncc.edu. To register, visit www.johnstoncc. edu/howellwoods.

MONDAY, OCT. 31, 5:30 P.M. St. Paul A.M.E. Church Trunk or Treat

300 N. Gardner Ave., Kenly St. Paul A.M.E. Church will hold Trunk or Treat Monday, Oct. 31 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. There will be fellowship and lots of candy! The public is invited to participate.

THURSDAY, NOV. 3, 4 P.M. DeWayne’s 19th Christmas Open House Open House is back! Join them Thursday, Nov. 3 for the store’s official kickoff to the Christmas season. Enjoy samples from Hinnant Winery, grab dinner from local food trucks, register to win door prizes and sing along with The Victorian Carolers from 5-8 p.m. To learn more, visit www. fb.com/ShopDeWaynes/events.

THURSDAY, NOV. 3, 6 P.M. GriefShare for the Holidays Beulah Hill Christian Church, Keen Road, Four Oaks Beulah Hill Christian Church would like to offer a place of rest and preparation for the upcoming holidays. They are making their facility available for this GriefShare Surviving the Holidays Group Workshop to help in this difficult time. Workbooks will be provided at no cost on the night of the group event. To learn more, visit www.beulahhill.com/ surviving-the-holidays.

SATURDAY, NOV 5, 9 A.M.

JWL’s 7th Annual Touch-A-Truck Downtown Smithfield Play. Learn. Explore. at TouchA-Truck! JWL’s 7th Annual Touch-A-Truck is a unique and interactive fundraiser that allows children to see, touch and safely explore their favorite big trucks and heavy machinery, as well as meet the personnel who protect, serve and build Johnston County communities. Trucks on display will include emergency vehicles, tractors, machinery, construction equipment, farm equipment, service and delivery trucks and more. For more information, visit www.jwlsmithfield.com.

Take the pledge, learn how to secure alcohol in your home, and request a free cabinet lock today!

The home is the #1 place youth access alcohol.

It’s never too early to start the conversation.

Talk to your child about the dangers of underage drinking including the negative impact on the developing teenage brain.

Set clear guidelines about the expectations in your home.

johnstonsup.org/ talk-it-up-lock-it-up/

When there is alcohol in the home, secure and monitor it.

Take inventory and regularly check any alcohol in the home.

Make sure alcohol is not easily accessible by putting it in locked spaces.

Learn more: JohnstonSUP.org

The Johnston County Substance Use Prevention Coalition is a proud partner of the Poe Center for Health Education. www.poehealth.org

“Funded in whole or in part by the SAMHSA Partnerships for Success (PFS) grant awarded to the NC DHHS DMH/DD/SAS # H79SP080986.

Ava Gardner Festival announces film screenings

Submitted BY JOHNSTON COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU

SMITHFIELD — This year’s Ava Gardner Festival includes three film screenings on the weekend of Oct. 7-9.

Hosted by Smithfield Cinemas, the screenings are part of the larger schedule of events that include a concert at The Clayton Center, new exhibits, art vendors, and a special Mural and Rose Garden dedication.

On Saturday, Oct. 8 at 5 p.m., the Ava Gardner Museum is featuring the film noir classic “The Killers” (1946) with Gardner in her breakout role as Kitty Collins in the remastered 4K version released in 2021. Gardner starred with Burt Lancaster as the Swede (in his film debut), Edmond O’Brien and Sam Levene in a 1927 short story by Ernest Hemingway. “The Killers”

was directed by Robert Siodmak, and John Huston was uncredited as the co-writer of the screenplay.

The film follows insurance investigator Reardon (O’Brien) as he pursues the case of the Swede’s murder, while weaving together threads of the Swede’s life, he uncovers a complex tale of treachery and crime, all linked to gorgeous, mysterious Kitty Collins.

Also Oct. 8, the second film “Pandora and the Flying Dutchman” (1951) will show at 7:30 p.m. The Cohen Media Group released a new 4K restoration of Albert Lewin’s film starring Gardner, James Mason, Nigel Patrick, Sheila Sim and Harold Warrender. A timeless romance based on the legend of the Flying Dutchman. Gardner played Pandora, a woman who has never fallen in love. When she meets the dashing but doomed captain

Hendrik van der Zee (Mason), he pushes her to commit an ultimate act of love.

On Sunday, Oct. 9 at 1:30 p.m., the final film screening will be “The Barefoot Contessa” (1954). This last iconic Gardner film was written and directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz about the life and loves of fictional Spanish sex symbol Maria Vargas. It starred Humphrey Bogart and Edmond O’Brien, who for his performance won the academy award for Best Supporting Actor.

Following the festival, the museum will continue the centennial celebration throughout 2023 with special programming and virtual offerings designed to honor Gardner’s many contributions to film, fashion and philanthropy. There will also be more unique events to come and information will be posted at https://www. johnstoncountync.org/ava-gardner/ava-100/.

Ava Gardner and co-star Burt Lancaster pose for a photo as their characters in "The Killers" for a promotional shoot for the movie.

Johnston Health Foundation has new director

Submitted BY UNC HEALTH JOHNSTON

SMITHFIELD — The Johnston Health Foundation is pleased to announce Kyle Gray as its new director. He began his duties in September.

In his new role, Gray is responsible for leading all aspects of the foundation, including fundraising and revenue generation, financial stewardship, organizational and programmatic leadership, community engagement, strategic growth and operational goals. “As we expand our services and community outreach, the foundation is becoming an increasingly valuable partner in helping our organization meet its mission and the needs of our growing region,” said Tom Williams, CEO and president of UNC Health Johnston. “We are delighted to have Kyle at the helm.”

Kyle Gray is the new director of the Johnston Health Foundation. He started his work with the foundation in September.

Gray brings 26 years of experience in higher education development, marketing and communications. During his recent five-year tenure at UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, he raised $32 million to advance the school’s mission.

Previously at the UNC School of Medicine from 2006 to 2017, Gray demonstrated the ability to increase development activity by tripling the Department of Health Sciences’ donor base and increasing cumulative donations to more than $12 million.

“We are excited to welcome Kyle to our team,” said April Culver, vice president of external affairs at UNC Health Johnston. “He brings a wealth of experience from his tenure at UNC. He has a passion for health care and the community setting and the ability to take our foundation to the next level.”

From 2001 to 2005, Gray served as the assistant dean for development and communications at UNC-Chapel Hill’s School of Government, where he launched and managed the Friends of the Institute of Government Program to increase public and private financial support for the school.

Gray holds a master’s degree in public administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a bachelor’s degree in political science from The Colorado College.

He and his wife, Liz, live in Carrboro and have four children, Aedin, Allegra, Harper and Hunter. In his free time, he enjoys fly-fishing, hiking and biking.

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Micro Elementary principal continuing family legacy

Submitted BY JOHNSTON COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

MICRO — Newly named Micro Elementary School principal Carson Cataliotti comes from a family of educators.

Born and raised in Smithfield, Cataliotti attended South Smithfield Elementary, where her father was the principal. When she was a student at Smithfield Middle, her mother was the principal.

She was that kid, going with her parents before school began and staying afterwards while they were still working. Spending so much time immersed in a school setting could have sent Cataliotti on a completely different path than education.

Luckily for Johnston County Public Schools, that wasn’t the case. She dreamed of becoming a teacher. “I idolized my teachers growing up,” Cataliotti said.

In fact, she would come home from school and conduct class with her stuffed animals arranged on her bed, teaching them the lessons she had learned at school that day. She took the roll with a roll book she snuck from her father’s office, and even made seating charts for her “students.”

When Cataliotti was in the third grade, she asked Santa for an overhead projector for Christmas, which, unfortunately, she did not get. That did not deter her dream of teaching.

Besides her parents being big influences, Cataliotti has a couple of other people in her life that she draws inspiration from. The first being her grandfather, who she considers her hero. “He was such a positive influence in my life,” Cataliotti recalled. “I have many, many special memories with him.”

One memory of her grandfather is he owned a farm and would take all of the grandchildren for rides around the farm. Cataliotti said that if you were special, you would get to sit on his lap and help drive. She said he was the kindest, most humble person she has ever known, and he lived by the Golden Rule, treat others the way you want to be treated.

Another early influence in Cataliotti’s life was her fourth grade teacher, Ms. Helen

New Micro Elementary principal Carson Cataliotti

Bunn, who made learning fun, exciting and engaging. She remembers that they did a lighthouse project, read-a-thons and school plays. More importantly, “She made me feel special,” Cataliotti recalled.

In addition to her early love of teaching, as a young girl Cataliotti developed her love of reading. “There’s so much magic in a book,” she said.

When she taught first grade, she loved the read aloud part of the day. “It can take your imagination to so many places,” she said. Still, to this day, she enjoys reading, especially while on the beach.

Cataliotti’s first few years teaching were in Wake County. From there, Cataliotti excitedly began her career with JCPS as a teacher at Dixon Road Elementary, where she taught first grade for two years. She moved on to teach at her alma mater, South Smithfield Elementary, and taught first grade for eight years.

That was when Cataliotti decided to take her teaching career to the next level, so she went back to East Carolina University and earned her master’s. Although she knew that being an administrator wouldn’t give her the direct impact like she had with teaching, Cataliotti also knew that she would be able to make a bigger impact.

Once she completed her master’s degree, Cataliotti came right back to JCPS to complete her internship at West Smithfield Elementary.

Then she became the assistant principal

at South Smithfield Elementary for four years. Last year, she helped open JCPS’ newest school, Thanksgiving Elementary. “I really enjoyed my time there opening that school,” Cataliotti said.

Cataliotti knows that an important part of being a principal is connecting with students, staff and families. A selfproclaimed extrovert, she is a people person. “I’m energized by people,” she said.

How does Cataliotti connect? She asks questions. She believes that if you want to get to know others, you have to get to know them, and let them know that you genuinely care about them. “People don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care,” she said.

Her down time is spent with her husband, who was her college sweetheart, and their three sons. She likes to hang out in the backyard grilling up some grub, having a fire or reading a book. “The backyard is my place,” Cataliotti said.

When she isn’t playing wiffle ball with her youngest son, who is four years old, or taking her oldest sons to their baseball games, Cataliotti likes to paint furniture under the name Glossy Girl.

When asked to pick her favorite place on Earth, Cataliotti quickly replied, “Costa Rica.”

Why? “The people, the food, the culture, the beauty — Costa Rica has my heart,” she said of her visit there.

She, however, cannot decide if she’s a beach girl or a mountain girl. She and her family enjoy both aspects of North Carolina equally.

Her vision for the future of Micro Elementary is to build relationships with students, staff and their families. “Micro Elementary is known as the small school where big things happen,” she said.

Cataliotti plans to collaborate with the teachers to continue traditions such as Fresh Cuts and Fresh Starts, where the students can come and get free haircuts, as well as book bags, school supplies, clothing and food.

Micro Elementary will undoubtedly continue on its path of excellence with Cataliotti at the helm. “I’m very creative and have a lot of ideas,” she said.

Trained soldiers of a different kind

Submitted BY DOT LA MOTTA

GARNER — The Cleveland School Rotary Club’s “Wounded Warrior Project” was held Sept. 9 in Garner to honor and present a certified service dog to retired Marine Chris Beckett, who has Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Laura Murray, the CEO of The Rescue for PTSD in Houston, presented Beckett with a two-year-old black Labrador Retriever named Justice. The personal bond between the veteran and the dog helps their PTSD struggles to lessen considerably.

Justice is a tail-wagging, ball-chasing bundle of raven black, silky fur who loves to run and give front paw neck hugs and cheek kisses. He was welcomed with open arms by Beckett and his family.

Justice was originally destined to be a law enforcement K9 with the Department of Corrections, but did not pass the stringent testing for drugs and

The Cleveland School Rotary Club and The Rescue for PTSD worked together to get a service dog for Marine veteran Chris Beckett and his family. From left are Eric Murray, Laura Murray, CEO of The Rescue for PTSD; Beckett, Beckett's daughter Ember and wife Chondra. The black lab, Justice, is Beckett's new dog. The other two dogs are Honor and Missy.

illegal substance retrieval. He was then referred to the Veterans Administration, who in turn referred Justice to The Rescue for PTSD.

Justice passed his initial social and temperament evaluation before entering The Rescue for PTSD training program. This is where Justice shined and was meant to serve. The veteran is not charged for the dog or the training. The Veterans Administration pays for the veterinarian fees, canine equipment, medications, medical and dental procedures and required vaccinations.

During the Sept. 9 celebration, Justice thought it was Christmas as he relaxed in his crate like a king being presented with a ton of gifts including 50 lbs. of food, tennis balls, food dishes monogrammed with his name, vitamins, chewy bones, two fluffy beds (one for the crate and one for the house) and so much more. After a second day of training reinforcement between Justice and Beckett, Justice was officially designated a Certified Service Dog Sept. 10.

The veteran stood in awe, overwhelmed by the entire event as he and his wife gazed at the many workers who volunteered their time, talent and brawn to this event. Lowe’s Home Improvement sent a team of volunteers to complete the installation of a black chain-link fence around the property and provided all the tools and equipment necessary. The members of the Garner and Clayton Rotary Clubs helped with tree trimming and lot clearing and made six raised garden boxes for the family. There was no end to the compassion, the willingness to serve and help a veteran and his family in need.

The Rescue for PTSD is an all-volunteer, 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose mission is to adopt and train shelter/rescue dogs to be psychiatric service dog partners primarily for military veterans and secondly for first responders suffering from posttraumatic stress disorders and to aid in the restoration of their emotional and physical independence.

The Rescue for PTSD only works with dogs in Houston-area rescues and shelters, and from breeders or owners who feel the need to donate their family pet to a worthy cause honoring a veteran in need. Breeds include Labradors, Shepherds, Boxers, Rottweilers and even mixed breeds. No breed, big or small, is discriminated against as long as they can pass the testing.

The training program can last from nine months to two years before the dog is ready to be paired with its veteran. All dogs must pass the AKC Canine Good Citizen Test, the ADA Public Access Test, and the specified appropriate training that matches

Retired Marine Chris Beckett has a new service dog, Justice, to help him deal with PTSD. Beckett got Justice through the efforts of the Cleveland School Rotary Club and The Rescue for PTSD.

the veteran’s needs.

Once a dog is placed with a veteran, The Rescue for PTSD continues its one-on-one visitation with the veteran in their home, place of employment and in public areas to acquaint the newly-matched couple and to reinforce commands.

A veteran requesting a service dog must complete a detailed medical and personal application form, pass multiple interviews, have a doctor confirming their PTSD and treatments recommended, be available for home visits by the Veterans Administration or the rescue organization and must have a

qualified fenced-in yard before a service dog is released to them.

The veteran must attend meetings with the CEO of The Rescue for PTSD or their master trainer. The board of directors of The Rescue for PTSD reviews all requests and provides the final approvals as to which trained dog is the best match for the needs of the veteran.

Those who are interested in being a foster home for a service dog until they are permanently placed must also pass stringent testing and interviews. They are responsible for completing the end stages of the dog’s training and reinforcing the commands.

The home must provide for their welfare, love and companionship and be diligent in continuing the training tasks needed by the waiting veteran. This is a serious assignment and the foster parents are under an obligation to surrender the service dog to the veteran even if tears are flowing and hugs refuse to let go.

The local foster family in Garner was Kurt and Peggy Woods, both retired Army officers. Kurt is also the recipient of a certified service dog called Honor,

a golden Labrador Retriever with an exuberant, bouncy personality who welcomes everyone with her happy tail wags, body bumps and funny vocal greetings.

Honor was donated by a breeder to a fundraising auction. The Belles of Houston (wives of oilmen) purchased Honor as part of their fundraising efforts for a charity. Honor was one and a half years old when she completed her training with The Rescue for PTSD.

She was welcomed as a permanent member of the Woods family about a year ago and has found a match made in heaven. She has since become a delightful, fun addition to her neighborhood. She will miss Justice, but both families live close to enjoy frequent visits and a romp in their fenced-in yards. Kurt Woods and The Rescue for PTSD helped to organize this event, coordinate volunteers and obtained business and food contributions.

The Cleveland School Rotary Club members are dedicated to serving and volunteering for projects in their community to help fill a need that is not met. Members from all walks of

life come together in friendship using their time, talent and treasure to help the less fortunate and to improve their community’s public areas, parks and other places needing updating.

Their “Wounded Warrior Project” was a huge success with many people and local businesses coming together in a spirit of camaraderie to help, share and contribute to this worthy cause.

Local businesses and organizations who contributed to the effort include Lowe’s of Garner, Cleveland School Rotary Club, Clayton and Garner Rotary Clubs, Triangle Seamless Gutters, Carolina Renovation and Maintenance, Sheetz, Home Depot, Tractor Supply, Just for Dogs, Electri-Tech, Panera Bread and Biscuitville.

The Cleveland School Rotary Club also appreciates Murray flying in from Texas to oversee this momentous occasion.

For more information, visit www. rescueforptsd.org. Tax-deductible donations are always welcome and appreciated.

Justice sends a tail wag and a kiss to thank everyone too!

Family uses love of reading to honor son’s memory

Submitted BY TOWN OF CLAYTON

CLAYTON — The books at HocuttEllington Memorial Library have many stories to tell. Because of the compassion and generosity of one local family, the library’s collection of books and stories is growing.

Bryant and Kara Carroll are the parents of two daughters, Ruth and Ada, and a son, Anthony, who passed away in 2021. In honor of their son’s memory, the Carrolls made a donation that allowed the library to purchase 35 new children’s books, which are now available for checkout.

The books purchased in honor of Anthony are a collection of the Carroll family favorites. Bryant and Kara have always shared their love for reading with their children, and so many of the family’s core memories are tied to books. Now, with their collection available at

the library, the Carrolls can share their passion for reading and Anthony’s legacy with an entire community.

Bryant and Kara adopted Anthony in 2020, when he was only seven months old. Prior to his adoption, Anthony was diagnosed with a serious heart condition which required frequent medical attention.

During the family’s consistent hospital visits, the Carrolls found a safe haven in books. “When we were in the hospital, we would just read,” Mrs. Carroll said. “When Anthony was sedated, he was able to hear us, but he couldn’t respond. During these times, my husband and I would bring stacks of books with us and read to him.”

One of the family’s favorite books to read to Anthony at the hospital, “I Love You Till The Cows Come Home” by Kathryn Cristaldi, is now part of the library’s collection.

In 2021, shortly after his first birthday, Anthony passed away. In honor of his life, the Carrolls wanted to continue to share their love of books with others. “When we were thinking of how we can honor Anthony, we thought about the library and that letting other kids experience the love for books that we have at home was a good idea,” Mrs. Carroll said.

The family plans to continue building their collection at Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library and supporting the library as patrons and donors. “We visit Anthony’s grave once a week, and we always take one of our library books,” Mrs. Carroll said. “We check out a book that we think Anthony would have liked, or we let Ruth pick one of her favorites to read while we are there.”

According to Library Director Joy Garretson, this new collection of books will be a great benefit to the library and the many children who will read them.

Nurses named Ambassadors of the Month

Submitted BY UNC HEALTH JOHNSTON

SMITHFIELD — UNC Health Johnston has recognized Lisa Hill, an endoscopy nurse, as Ambassador of the Month for August and Brittany Lane, an emergency department charge nurse, as Ambassador of the Month for September.

During a recent presentation, CEO Tom Williams said Hill is a solid nurse with excellent critical thinking skills. “She has an exceptional bedside manner and a great rapport with physicians,” he said. “She brims with initiative, volunteers to help in any situation and seeks resources as needed. She is honest and hardworking, and comes up with solutions when faced with challenging situations.”

Before coming to Johnston, Hill worked in outpatient and hospital settings, including pediatric and emergency departments, in Kansas, Oregon and Missouri. She and her husband, Jason,

moved to Clayton five years ago to be near his family.

“I like the teammates and physicians I work with and I enjoy the fast pace of the endoscopy department, where you get to meet so many patients,” she said. “I feel really fortunate to work here at Johnston. I like the local small town feel.”

Hill grew up in Soldier, Kan. on the family’s dairy farm. She caught the nursing bug as a child after visiting her grandfather in the hospital and watching the nurses take care of him.

She and Jason have three children, ages 15, 17 and 19. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, working out and attending her children’s sports events.

During Lane’s presentation, Williams said Lane is a “powerhouse” in coordinating patient care in a busy emergency department. “She is knowledgeable and seeks out opportunities to learn and grow professionally. Her teammates admire and

praise her leadership skills,” Williams said.

Lane joined UNC Health Johnston six years ago after graduating from Wayne Community College. At first she wanted to work with pediatric patients. But after enrolling in the new graduate program in the emergency department, she fell in love with the fast-paced environment.

“It’s rewarding to help people,” Lane said.

After a year and a half, Lane earned a promotion to charge nurse on the night shift. Lane says she’s always wanted to be a nurse. Before they retired, her uncle Ronald Hughes was a family physician in Whitakers, a small town in Edgecombe and Nash counties, and his wife, Toni, a nurse, practiced alongside him for many years. The practice is now affiliated with UNC Health.

While Lane enjoys patient care, she is particularly passionate about improving processes in the emergency department. As a clinical ladder project, she recently worked with providers to improve the

Emergency department charge nurse Brittany Lane is the September UNC Health Johnston Ambassador of the Month. From left are Leah Garner, director of emergency services; CEO Tom Williams, Lane, Dr. Rodney McCaskill, chief medical officer and Ruth Marler, chief operating officer and chief nursing officer.

code blue process (for cardiac arrests), identifying the need for more structured assignments.

“Brittany is a valuable resource to the team,” says Leah Garner, director of emergency services. “She has grown so much during

her time in the emergency department and is a true leader.”

Lane grew up in the Stancils Chapel community and graduated from North Johnston High School. She and her husband, Hunter, live in Middlesex. In their

Endoscopy nurse Lisa Hill has been named UNC Health Johnston Ambassador of the Month. From left are Ruth Marler, chief operating officer and chief nursing officer; Amy Hamby, associate vice president of patient care services; Hill, Karla Allen, manager of OR operations; CEO Tom Williams, Amy Skinner, endoscopy clinical coordinator and gastroenterologist Dr. Rajiv Majithia.

spare time, the couple enjoys traveling to new places.

Through the ambassador program, UNC Health Johnston recognizes teammates who go above and beyond the call of duty. They

deliver quality care, foster teamwork and offer excellent service.

In addition to a designated month-long parking space, Hill and Lane will each receive eight hours of paid time off.

BD TO INVEST AT FOUR OAKS BUSINESS PARK

Submitted BY JOHNSTON COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

FOUR OAKS — BD, a global leader in medical devices, will invest $25 to $30 million in a new manufacturing site at Four Oaks Business Park.

The new facility will initially employ a 22-person workforce, with annual wages averaging nearly $83,600. Johnston County commissioners joined Four Oaks Town Council in approving a package of performance-based financial incentives in support of the project.

“Advanced manufacturing and life sciences are cornerstones of the 21st century economy, and these two dynamic sectors are coming together in a major way in Johnston County,” said R.S. “Butch” Lawter, Jr., chairman of the Johnston County Board of Commissioners. “BD is among the leading medical device makers in the world, and we’re proud the company has chosen Four Oaks Business Park as the backdrop for its latest round of growth.”

Founded in 1897 as Becton, Dickinson & Company, BD is one of the world’s largest medical technology companies. With operations worldwide, the company works to develop next-generation therapeutics and diagnostics that address some of the most challenging human health issues.

The New Jersey-based company maintains a global workforce of 75,000 employees. Since 2010, BD has maintained a nearly 720,000 square-foot distribution center at Four Oaks Business Park. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Gold Certified facility employs approximately 300 people.

Four Oaks Mayor Vic Medlin welcomed BD’s announcement. “When existing industries re-invest here with an announcement this size, it says all the right things about our community,” he said. “BD has brought new energy and economic diversification to Four Oaks

BD plans to invest between $25 and $30 million on a new manufacturing site at Four Oaks Business Park. The company already operates a distribution center there.

since establishing their distribution operations at Four Oaks Business Park in 2010. The company’s latest investment here adds momentum to our vision for growing advanced manufacturing jobs.”

BD will construct a state-of-the-art medical device processing facility that could initially span 30,000 square feet. Construction is expected to begin next year, with operations commencing by late 2024. New jobs there will include engineers, machine operators, material handlers and other positions. Prior to its decision to invest in Johnston County, the company considered nine locations across three states.

“BD already has a strong presence in North Carolina — with four facilities and more than 1,000 employees across the state — and we look forward to growing our investment in the state and the town of Four Oaks with this new facility,” said Travis Anderton, vice president at BD. “We considered multiple locations across the United States, and a combination of our existing presence in North Carolina, proximity to one of our distribution centers and the incentives provided by Johnston County were the determining

factors to locate in Four Oaks. We’d like to thank the Johnston County Economic Development Office and the county and municipal officials who helped collaborate with BD to locate our facility here.”

Construction of BD’s facility alone could spur $18 million in one-time economic impact, according to an analysis by Dr. Michael Walden, William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor Emeritus at North Carolina State University and president of Walden Economic Consulting, LLC. The site will also add $15 million to Johnston County’s annual GDP and result in more than $157,000 in county and municipal tax revenues each year, Walden found.

“This exciting announcement grows our life sciences industry and extends it to the I-95 corridor,” said Randy Jones, chairman of the Johnston County Economic Development Advisory Board. “What BD is doing will have an important impact well beyond the Town of Four Oaks, boosting the Research Triangle’s biotechnology brand and underscoring the rising prominence of the BioPharma Crescent.”

My Kid’s Club announces two new board members

Submitted BY MY KID’S CLUB

SELMA — My Kid’s Club has announced the appointment of two new members, Denton Lee and Lama Sinno, to its board of directors.

Lee is a retired executive vice president of First Citizens Bank after 44 years of service. Prior to retirement, he managed the bank’s operations and business segment and led the bank’s merger and acquisition team. He is a former member of the Johnston County Board of Education, a past president of the Johnston Community College Foundation, a Guardian ad Litem volunteer and a 20-year volunteer fireman with the Cleveland Volunteer Fire Department.

Lee currently serves as the vice-chairman for the Johnston Health Foundation. He is a member of the Tuscarora Council for the Boy Scouts of America, the board of directors of the Triangle East Chamber of Commerce, the McLemore Fire District Tax Board and an active member of Oakland Presbyterian Church in the Cleveland community.

A native of Smithfield, he is a U.S. Army veteran and attended the University of North Carolina and the BAI School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin.

He and his wife Jane, their two children and seven grandchildren reside in Cleveland. In retirement, Lee has completed two residential developments in the Cleveland

community, the 43-home McLemore Estates and the 25-home Freedom Farms neighborhoods. Having previously provided sites for the Cleveland Food Lion and HealthSmart Pharmacy, he is currently engaged in developing a new 30,000 square-foot business services hub that will be known as Parkview Center in the Cleveland area.

Lee has spent the majority of his life in service to Johnston County. “I have been closely following the progress of My Kid’s Club and the services provided for at-risk children. I have been impressed by the courage of the MKC leadership to take on this challenge and provide learning and leadership for the children of Johnston County. I believe in the MKC vision and I’m willing to devote time and resources to help expand the opportunity to change the course for the children now served, and those to come,” Lee said.

Sinno grew up in Durham and obtained her undergraduate degree from University of North Carolina in 1995. She obtained her law degree from Campbell University in 2001. She has been in private practice in Johnston County since October 2003. She practices criminal and juvenile law. She is a member of the Johnston County Youth Crime Prevention Council and a member of the Smithfield Junior Women’s League. In 2019, she was a co-chair for the My Kid’s Club Railroad Days 5K Run and looks forward to helping with

this event again. She lives in Clayton with her husband, Antoan Whidbee, and 10-year-old daughter, Lily. They are all loyal Tar Heel fans and spend most weekends attending Lily’s soccer games.

“We are very excited to welcome Mr. Denton Lee and Mrs. Lama Sinno to the My Kid’s Club board of directors,” said Sarah Sheraski, executive director of My Kid’s Club. “They each bring a deep knowledge and commitment to the community and knowledge of the issues facing our youth in Johnston County. Their leadership, expertise and experiences will be extremely valuable in advancing the

mission of My Kid’s Club.”

Other board members are Samantha Barbour, Steve Bryant, Kay Carroll, Shirley Cohen, Zeke Creech, Lynn Daniels, Leo Daughtry, Elwanda Hyman-Farrow, Rhaegan Jackson, Jean Kelly, Wendy Kelly, Maggie Lampe, Kathy Mast, Roger Pope, Dana Riley, Corey Scarboro, Meg Scovil, Norwood Thompson, Chris Torgler, Susan Watson, William White and Thad Woodard.

My Kid’s Club is a Johnston County non-profit that provides after-school programs and summer camps for youth to grow through opportunities for academic success.

Clayton resource officer program expands

Submitted BY TOWN

OF CLAYTON

CLAYTON — The Clayton Police Department has expanded its School Resource Officer program, and for the first time in the town’s history, a Clayton Police Officer will serve as the SRO for Clayton High School.

The Clayton Town Council approved an expansion of the Clayton Police Department SRO program to include all seven area public schools — Clayton High, Clayton Middle, West Clayton Elementary, Cooper Academy, Riverwood Middle, Riverwood Elementary and Powhatan Elementary.

Officer Alexandria Woodall is the town’s newest SRO, and she is assigned to serve Clayton High this school

year. “One of the main reasons I chose a career in law enforcement was to become an SRO,” Woodall said. “I had a great SRO when I was in high school, and I looked up to her. She inspired me to work within a school and act as a mentor to students.”

According to Clayton Police Chief Greg Tart, the Johnston County Board of Education requested the town assign sworn law enforcement officers to serve as the SROs for the Clayton area schools.

School resource officers play an important role in school safety, and their duties can vary from day to day. Some responsibilities include monitoring school halls, ensuring that entry points are secure, supervising classroom changes, directing traffic and

From left, Clayton school resource officers Aurora Stanley, Alexandria Woodall and Avigail Cruz in front of the Clayton High School football field.

leading fire/lockdown drills. SROs assist administrative staff, teachers and parents as needed. They also serve as the liaisons between the town, Johnston County Public Schools and the Clayton Police Department. Clayton Police Department’s SROs approach their job philanthropically. “The face of school resource officers is changing. Considering recent events, more officers are seeking SRO certification. We want to show kids that we

are extremely valuable and necessary in today’s climate and culture. Clayton’s team is composed of three female officers, who each come from vastly different walks of life. We all bring unique approaches and backgrounds to the table. This will allow us to connect with students and make headway with community relations and school safety,” said Officer Aurora Stanley, SRO at Riverwood Middle,

Michelle

Michelle Bowen

Clayton park renamed after local Harlem Globetrotter

Submitted BY TOWN OF CLAYTON

CLAYTON — The Town of Clayton has officially unveiled Donald Clyde Sinclair Park in honor of the former Harlem Globetrotter. The town held a special ceremony to rename AllStar Park, located at 400 E. Front Street.

“It’s not often we get a chance to recognize one of our own,” said Interim Town Manager Rich Cappola. “Donald Clyde Sinclair is a living legend.”

Sinclair is a lifelong resident of Clayton and a 1977 graduate of Clayton High School. Following graduation, Sinclair played at Kings Community College before transferring to play at N.C. Central University. After college, he went on to play abroad and was eventually signed by the Washington Generals.

Soon after the 1988 season, Sinclair made the jump to the Harlem Globetrotters taking on the nickname “The Glide.” He continued his career as a Harlem Globetrotter for 17 impressive years. He was awarded the Mr. Globetrotter Award in 1998, which is given to the player who most represents the spirit of the Harlem Globetrotters.

In 2005, Sinclair hung up his jersey and took on a new role as coach for the Globetrotters, where he served for seven years.

Darren Banks, a Clayton High School coach who was instrumental in organizing the effort to rename the park, said that Sinclair hopes when people in the community see his name on the park sign, that they remember the Sinclair family and the tremendous impact they had on his life and so many others in the community.

“It’s not about me. It’s about my father’s last name,” said Sinclair. “It’s about making this community a better place every day.”

Donald Clyde Sinclair, right, is congratulated by Clayton High School coach Darren Banks at the unveiling of Donald Clyde Sinclair Park. The park, formerly All-Star Park, was renamed in honor of Sinclair, a Clayton native and former Harlem Globetrotter.

Clayton hires new town manager

Submitted BY TOWN OF CLAYTON

CLAYTON — The Clayton Town Council has selected Rich Cappola to serve as the next town manager. The council voted unanimously to appoint Cappola.

Cappola has served as the interim town manager since May 2021. For the past five years, he has served the town in a variety of roles including the town’s first director of engineering and inspections, director of public services and as deputy town manager.

“Rich’s experience serving as interim has been overwhelmingly successful. He has successfully accomplished a lot in a short period of time with the support of the town council,” said Clayton Mayor

Jody McLeod. “He is honest and trustworthy, smart and strategic and a highly regarded professional. Without question, Rich was by far the best candidate for the job.”

Earlier this year, the council voted to have Human Resources Director Kenya Walls conduct the recruitment process for the town manager position. Cappola was one of 34 applicants from several states, including 23 from North Carolina.

An initial screening of each application was conducted for matching qualifications. All applications were sent to the council for further review by a council member. Council then selected three candidates to interview. From those three interviews, the top two candidates completed a behavioral assessment that was administered by Catapult, a human resources consulting firm based out of Raleigh. Council reviewed the assessment results of both candidates in making their final selection.

“Selecting a town manager is one of the most important decisions that the council makes for the community,” Walls said. “I was honored to be asked by the mayor to assist with the recruitment process for the town manager position.”

According to Walls, the applicant pool was quite competitive, which meant the mayor and town council were able to consider a number of well-qualified candidates with extensive local government management experience for the town manager position.

“It was not just important for us to find the most qualified person but also a person that will grow as Clayton continues to grow,” said Councilman Michael Sims.

The town manager is appointed by and works under the direction of the mayor and five-member town council. He is responsible for a total budget of $98.7 million and approximately 250 full-time employees.

“Rich is undoubtedly the best person for the job. His unwavering dedication to our citizens, staff and visitors is apparent in everything he does,” said Clayton Mayor Pro Tem Jason Thompson. “He stepped up when we needed him most and has shown that he has the knowledge and ability to lead us through both challenging and triumphant times.”

In his role as town manager, Cappola said he will focus on managing growth and streamlining processes involving master planning, design, permitting and construction. He plans to continue to prioritize the operations and management of the town’s services and infrastructure. He also hopes to further cultivate and expand community relationships and partnerships.

“I am looking forward to continuing to serve Clayton in a permanent role,” Cappola said.

Clayton Mayor Jody McLeod, right, swears in Rich Cappola as Clayton's new town manager. From left are Cappola's daughter Giuliana, Cappola, daughters Eliza and Madelyn, his wife Lauren and McLeod.

4-H Livestock contest results

Eighteen Johnston County 4-H members recently participated in the state 4-H Livestock Judging Contest in Raleigh. Front from left are Lucy Formisani, eighth overall, fifth in sheep, sixth in goats, third place team and seventh in swine in the intermediate division; Cody Formisani, second overall individual, first in swine and meat goats and second in reasons in the junior division; Rian Hill, second place team in the intermediate division; Kennedy Lee, second in meat goats, eighth in reasons and third place team in the intermediate division and McKynlee Pittman, third overall individual, fourth in swine and third in sheep in the junior division. Second row, Rylan Tew, Kaylee Pittman, 10th overall individual, fourth in cattle and second place team in the intermediate division; Anna Wells, eighth overall individual, fifth in sheep, 10th in meat goats and third place team in the senior division; Daisy Brown, third place team in the senior division; Carson Norris, fifth overall individual, second in meat goats and third in cattle in the junior division and Lucas Barbour, ninth overall individual and fourth in meat goats in the junior division. Back row, Scarlett Denning, first overall individual, first in sheep, meat goats and reasons and second place team in the intermediate division; McKenzie Gross, Hattie Jo Powell, 11th overall individual, sixth in cattle and third place team in the senior division; Andrew Roberts, 10th in meat goats and third place team in the intermediate division; Harris Bagley, third in swine, seventh in sheep and eighth in meat goats in the junior division; Kimsey Bagley, 10th in swine and third place team in the senior division and Lyric Miller, sixth overall individual, second in cattle, sixth in sheep, eighth in reasons and third place team in the intermediate division.